《The Contracted Stripper》


 Chapter 1

    The neon lights flickered, casting an ethereal glow over the dimly lit stripper club where Iris worked. As she moved to the rhythm, she felt a heated gaze on her,  and turned to where it wasing from.


    It was rare to see men below 40 at the club alone,  but it was even rarer to see one that looked so good.  With his dark brown eyes and hair,  and his chiseled features,  he was hard to miss in the crowd.


    She noticed his eyes fixed on her, Confusion and curiosity danced in her eyes as he motioned for her to join him.


    ¡°Hello sir, How can I be of service to you tonight¡±? Iris said.


    ¡°Sit¡± With a straight face, Ryan spoke sternly.


    ¡°i¡­I should sit¡±? Iris asked


    ¡°Don¡¯t ask me dumb questions; I said sit¡±. With fear in her eyes, she sat down immediately.


    ¡± I have a proposal for you, and I want an answer right away¡±, Ryna said


    Uncertain of what to think, Iris thought within herself. What could that be?


    He took out a document and a pen and pushed them at her and dropped the bombshell. ¡°Marry me¡±!


    Iris¡¯ eyes widened. ¡°What!!!


    ¡°Ma.. Ma.. Marry you? What the heck are you talking about¡±?


    ¡°You juste out of nowhere and ask me to marry you? Who does that¡±? She said, with shock written all over her face.


    ¡°I don¡¯t even know you, what am I even saying, it¡¯s never gonna happen¡±. She said


    ¡°Be quiet, and let me speak! The marriage will be for a year only. After that you will be free again¡± Ryan said. ¡°I am still not interested in what you are saying¡±. Iris spoke.


    ¡°How about I offer you a million dors¡±? Iris¡¯ mouth drops in shock at hearing the amount Ryan was ready to offer.


    ¡°Wait, hold up! Are you serious about giving me a million dors if I agree to marry you¡±?


    Instantly, Iris thought about how she would use the money to pay for her mother¡¯s surgery and open her own fashion brand. A smile crept over her lips, the risk is worth taking, but she was skeptical about everything happening, her life was already messed up, she never envisioned herself a stripper but then again life has been brutal, not acknowledging pain and the need to pause when it hits hard.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have all day, you don¡¯t have to think too much about it¡±. Ryan said, sipping from his Coupette ss Of Margaritas.


    She was brought back to reality, ¡°Just for a year, you said, Mr¡­..?


    ¡°Ryan Kendrick¡±, he said.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    ¡°How am I sure you don¡¯t want to abduct me or kill me or even sell my organs?¡± She folded her hands and raised her eyebrows. He chuckled, snapped his fingers, and two huge guys came out with dark sunsses. Iris got scared and sank into her seat.


    ¡°I am not here for jokes. If I wanted to abduct you, I didn¡¯t need to say a word¡±.


    Iris looked at him and said, ¡°I can¡¯t do it. I am sorry¡±.


    ¡°Are you sure you want to turn me down? Think about your sick mother¡±. Ryan said and chuckled.


    With a questioning look, she said, ¡± How do you know my mother¡±?


    ¡± Your mother is safe; you only need to sign this contract¡± Ryan said.


    In that dimly lit corner of the club, surrounded by the pulsating beat of the music, she took the pen and read through the contract in front of her, her hands shaking, and her heart racing fast as she signed the contract.


    ¡°Good girl, he said¡±. He took the contract and gave it to one of his huge bodyguards.


    ¡°I wille pick you up by morning, ¡± Ryan said, and left the club with two girls, leaving Iris to think about what just happened and how her life is going to change for the next year.


    Still in her thoughts, her friend walked to her and said,  ¡°Hey girl, what¡¯s up? I saw you with drop-dead cute Ryan Kendrick. ¡°Omg, you are so lucky to have sat with him, talking, I have always wished to be with him, even if it was just for a night. He is everything I dream of in a man¡±.


    Still bbing, when she noticed that Iris hadn¡¯t said a word, ¡°IRISSSS¡­ Skr screamed, dragging the attention of people around them.


    ¡°What is it, Skr? Why are you shouting? Huh¡±?


    ¡°Really Iris? Do you know how long I have been here talking to you? Obviously, I was talking to myself, not you, because you didn¡¯t hear a word I said. What is wrong with you¡±?


    ¡°Since Ryan Kendrick left, you have been mute. What happened between both of you¡±?


    ¡°I¡¯m getting married, Skr¡±!


    ¡°Hahahhaha, nice joke, Iris. You got me there; you really did, so now can you please tell me what I want to hear¡±?


    ¡°Skr, I¡¯m serious about getting married to Ryan Kendrick¡±.


    ¡± wh.. what¡±? Skr said.


    ¡°It¡¯s just for a year; it¡¯s a contract marriage¡±.


    ¡± A contract, what? Iris, are you even listening to yourself? Do you even know who Ryan Kendrick is¡±? Iris looked at her and shrugged.


    ¡°Skr, I need to do it. He is offering me a million do¡­¡±


    ¡°A million what¡±? Skr used her hands to cover her mouth. ¡°Are you being serious right now¡±? Iris nodded, ¡°and it¡¯s just for a year, how bad can that be¡±?  ¡°Very bad, Iris. Very, very bad¡±.


    ¡°You are just a stripper; how would you even fit into his lifestyle and personality? His parents won¡¯t even ept you, Iris. Can you just think for once¡±? Skr said.


    ¡°Skr, I have thought about all that, but I really don¡¯t care; all I care about is my mother¡¯s health and starting up my career as a fashion designer. That is why I need to do this¡±.


    ¡°Well, if your mind¡¯s made up, I understand¡±.


    ¡°So where¡¯s the contract¡±? Skr asked


    ¡°I have signed it¡± Iris said


    ¡°Huh, so fast¡±?


    ¡± Didn¡¯t he give you time to think about it? No, he didn¡¯t¡±.


    ¡± It¡¯s Iris¡±, Skr hugged her, and tears rolled down Iris¡¯ eyes. She had fought so hard to hold the tears back in, but Skr¡¯s hug brought them out.


    ¡°Stop crying, Iris; you will be fine. You have me, okay¡±? Iris nodded and Increased her hold on Skr.


    ¡°Return to your positions now,¡± a wrinkleddy said to Iris and Skr.


    ¡°There she goes again, Mama Peepee should give us a break¡± Iris said, with her fallen brows and protruding nose, they both looked at her and then at each other andughed uncontrobly.


    ¡°Skr I would report you to Mama Peepee, you wouldn¡¯t dare Iris, ¡± Skr said, stillughing so hard she said yes I would, stillughing and walking to her stripping stand.


    She felt the need to use the restroom, she immediately beckoned on a standby stripper to stand in for her.


    She entered the changing room, took her phone from her bag and went into the restroom, locked the door and was about relieving herself when her  phone rang.


    She looks at the called ID, unknown she wonders who it could be, she picks up the call, ¡°hello she said, Ir.. Ir.. Iris  help me, the call ended, Mum? Mum! Mum¡±!

 Chapter 2

    Iris hurried out of the restroom to the changing room, quickly changing from the lingerie and the definitive perspex tform heels she had on, and stormed out of the club, her heart racing about her mother, knowing she was not in a good state of health. She repeatedly called her mother¡¯s phone, but it didn¡¯t go through. She was worried sick.


    She quickly stopped a cab, got inside, and zoomed off home. She got to the house and rushed into her mother¡¯s room, only to see her mother peacefully sleeping on her bed. She held my mother¡¯s hand and kissed it softly. ¡°I thought you were hurt, Mom.


    Thank God you are fine¡±.


    Still holding her mother¡¯s hand, she thought within herself,  ¡°Who called me¡±?


    ¡°I am certain it was my mother¡¯s voice, or was I mistaken?


    I think I¡¯m just stressing myself out and thinking too much. I should get some rest¡±.


    ¡°A new day starts for me tomorrow,¡±Iris said.


    She went to her room, trying to park a few things she would be needing, and she slept off.


    With Iris¡¯ rm ringing so loud, she jerked up from her bed and turned off the rm. ¡°Stupid rm, she cussed. She got up from bed and headed to the bathroom to wash up, only for her to hear her mother¡¯s voice from the sitting room.


    ¡°Iris, there is someone here to see you,¡± she said. ¡°I aming, Mom¡±. Iris replied.


    ¡°Who came so early to see me? Iris thought to herself, It must be Skr, but Skr would have just stormed into my room like she always does. She needs no permission to invade my room¡±, Iris thought.


    ¡°Well, I just have to go see for myself¡±. Iris walked out of her room, and on reaching the sitting room, she saw a familiar statue. She remembered seeing himst night at the club; he was one of Ryan¡¯s mean bodyguards.


    ¡°Ma, Sir Ryan is waiting for you inside the car. Get your things and let go¡±, unsure of what she just heard. She asked, ¡°Your boss? Waiting for me?¡±


    ¡°Yes, ma, the bodyguard replied.


    ¡°Okay, I aming. Please give me some minutes¡±.


    Iris rushed to her room and parked a few of her belongings. When she was done, she went into her mother¡¯s room.


    ¡°Iris, who is that man? Mrs Jessica spoke soft and calmly.


    Biting her lips, Uncertain if she should tell her mother the truth or not.


    ¡± Mum, he is my new boss¡¯s driver; he was sent to pick me up to work since I am new and the route to the office is a bit hard to locate¡±, Iris lied.


    ¡°And mum I wanted to tell you that I got a new job and an apartment too, but when I came backst night, you had already gone to bed¡±.


    ¡°Oh, I see, her mother replied. ¡± be a good girl, and don¡¯t forget toe see me by the weekend¡±


    ¡°Definitely, mom, I would alwayse to see you, and Skr would always be around to make sure you are fine. Please, mom, don¡¯t forget your medication and eat too¡±.


    ¡°With my new job, I would be able to save up money for your surgery, and you will be back to your feet, strong as before, ¡± Iris said with a smile.


    ¡°Oh, my, Thank you, and don¡¯t worry too much; I will be fine¡±. With that, she hugged her mother and felt like remaining there; the horn from the car parked outside brought her back to life.


    ¡°Oh, mom, I have to go¡±. She kissed her on the head and rushed outside. One of the bodyguards hurriedly collected her bags from her and opened the car for her to go in.


    ¡°Don¡¯t ever keep me waiting, understand?¡± Ryan roared


    ¡°Ye.. yes sir, I am so.. sorry for keeping you waiting. I was trying to ¡­¡±  ¡°keep your exnations to yourself. Ryan coldly spoke to her.


    ¡°What have you gotten yourself into? Iris asked herself and kept quiet.


    The drive to Ryan¡¯s mansion was a silent and awkward one; she didn¡¯t want to step on his toe, so she kept her cool.


    The imposing mansion loomed as Ryan and Iris entered. Iris couldn¡¯t help but be swept away by the grandeur of it all. The workers, aware of Ryan¡¯s frequent guests, bowed in silence.


    Nevertheless, the mansion spoke volumes of the unimaginable wealth she had just stepped into.


    ¡°Stop looking like a lost baby and follow me; we have a wedding to n¡±. Ryan said.


    ¡°Wedding??


    ¡°I thought you would just put the ring on my finger privately, and that¡¯s all¡±.


    ¡°Are you instructing me on what to do and how to go about it? How dare you¡±?


    Confused, Iris spoke, ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting a wedding; that is all I was trying to say¡±.


    ¡°I have told you never to speak while I speak, haven¡¯t I?¡± You don¡¯t want to get me upset before our wedding, would you¡±? Ryan roared.


    Iris nodded in disapproval. ¡°So you should behave yourself.¡±


    Trying not to get lost in admiring the mansion, she acted focused on where Ryan was taking her.


    Suddenly, her thoughts collided with reality as she physically collided with Ryan. ¡°Can¡¯t you see? Are you blind?¡± he snapped. Iris, shaken, stammered an apology. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± she said, her voice trembling.


    ¡°Sorry for yourself. Watch out and don¡¯t get lost,¡±


    Ryan retorted, his tone curt and unweing. Iris tried to maintain herposure, but the unease lingered.


    Ryan abruptly stopped, his sharp words cutting through the silence. ¡°Come in and shut the door,¡± he barked.


    Startled, Iris entered the room, feeling a mix of awe and difort. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± she apologized again, her words hesitant. ¡± Shut the door,¡± Ryan said, his impatience evident.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Inside, the room held an air of mystery. Iris hesitated, feeling like an outsider in this extravagant world. ¡°I¡¯m just trying to adjust,¡± she exined softly.


    ¡°Adjust quickly. This is your new home.¡± Ryan cut in.


    ¡°Wee home, Ryan. You brought in a harlot rather too early, don¡¯t you think?¡± Said an unknown voice.


    Surprised, Iris turned to see who it was¡­¡­..

 Chapter 3

    ¡°Ivy, what are you doing in my room? Ryan said


    ¡°Hello, big brother, that is not a good way to wee your little sister. Won¡¯t you even hug me? Ivy said with pouty lips.¡±


    ¡°You know you are always wee, Ivy, and I missed you, but I didn¡¯t expect to see you in my room,¡± Ryan said.


    ¡°Well, I got backst night and went to see mom and dad. I came here this morning and, realizing you were not at home, I thought you had gone to the office only for me to see youing in with a harlot.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it too early, Ryan? Ivy said and rolled her eyes.¡±


    She looked back at Iris, who was standing surprised, giving her a hard stare from head to toe.


    ¡°Ivy, this is Iris, my girlfr-¡­. Uh-m fiancee, and we are getting married¡±. Ryan stammered like a newborn learning to speak.


    ¡°Fiancee? Married?¡±


    ¡°Tell me you are joking, Ryan, since when did you even have a girlfriend? Not talking about a fiancee?¡± Ivy questioned


    ¡°Look, Ivy, it¡¯s a long story I would exinter, ¡± Ryan said, rubbing his head.


    ¡°Hello Ryan, if she¡¯s your new catch and you just wanna fuck her, just go ahead; she¡¯s not worth the pretense.¡± Ivy said, still surprised.


    ¡°Excuse me, ma¡¯am, but I am no Harlot. You heard Ryan, I am his fiancee¡±.


    ¡°Finally found her voice to talk. Oh, shut up, Harlot, so you can talk? Ivy barked.


    ¡°I know you are a spoiled brat with no manners; you have no right to call me a harlot.¡± Iris retorted


    ¡°Do you¡­. Ivy began; that¡¯s enough now Ryan said.


    ¡°Iris You have no right to talk to my sister like that.


    ¡°But she¡¯s th¡­iris cut in..


    ¡°Enough, haven¡¯t I told you never to cut me while I talk? Ryan roared.


    ¡°Ivy, go to your room. I wille meet you there.¡±


    Reluctantly,  Ivy left, but not without giving Iris a warning look.


    ¡°That was my younger sister, Ivy, Ryan said. ¡± Okay, Iris replied sharply. Looking round the room to feed her eyes.


    Ryan took a ss cup, poured out some whiskey, and gulped it all at once, giving a look like it burned through his throat.


    ¡°Do you care for a drink?¡± Ryan asked


    ¡°No, I am not interested,¡± Iris replied.


    ¡°Good, because I wouldn¡¯t have given it to you,¡± Ryan replied.


    Iris scoffed, ¡°We are going to be married, and you are treating me like I don¡¯t even exist. I am human, so show some empathy.¡±


    ¡°Who cares if you are human? Just do what I am paying you for and keep your mouth shut; moreover, I am doing you and your mother a favor¡±.


    ¡± We are going to see my parents get prepared before 7 p. m., ¡°Ryan said.


    Iris was about to sit on Ryan¡¯s bed to rest her legs.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare, Iris, ¡± Ryan barked. Iris flinched.


    ¡°You will keep standing until I say otherwise.¡±


    With that, Ryan touched a button on the wall, and a knock was heard at the door . Come in, Ryan said.


    A maid came in with her head bowed.


    ¡°Sarah take Iris to her room, prepare her, and teach her my ways. Whatever she does wrong, I will deal with you severely, understand?¡± Ryan asked.


    ¡°Yes, sir Ryan. Iris, surprised about what she just heard, gave Ryan a strong look and left with Sarah to her room.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    ¡°Wee Ma Iris,¡±


    ¡°Please just call me Iris, ¡± Iris said and smiled.


    ¡°Okay, ma¡­ sorry Iris, Sarah spoke.


    ¡°You look so beautiful, Ma iris¡­ sorry Iris. If not for the color of your hair and I know Ma Ivy personally, I would have thought you both were sisters¡±, Sarah said.


    ¡°I sure don¡¯t look like that spoiled brat.¡± Iris scoffed.


    ¡°I see you have had an encounter with her, which, from the way you sound, didn¡¯t go well. Sarah said, smiling.


    ¡°God, she¡¯s so annoying, Sarah, Iris said.


    ¡°You will get used to her, Iris; she is a sweet girl too, with a coconut head, Sarah said.


    They bothughed softly.


    ¡°I can¡¯t get used to her; I would avoid her instead¡±. Iris said.


    ¡°Only if you can,¡± Sarah mumbled.


    ¡°Since you are my personal maid, you need to tell me about Ryan and his family. I will be going to see his parents tonight. I don¡¯t even know how I should look. Iris said  walking towards wardrobe she opened it.¡± Wow,  she eximed.


    ¡°Are all this for¡­, Sarah cut her short ¡± all for you Iris.


    Iris couldn¡¯t find any of her personal stuff in the wardrobe; she saw her favorite designer collections, from dresses and shoes to bags, essories, and perfumes.


    ¡°OMG! Is that a Christian Louboutin, VERSACE, TOM FORD, DIOR, no way MARC  JACOBS !!


    Iris couldn¡¯t keep calm; she lost herposure and screamed. She had always wanted their real designs and possibly coborated with them, but she couldn¡¯t afford it, but she has it now for free.


    It was like a dream about toe true for Iris.


    Iris had already started drafting how to turn the dresses into something new and different, but with the same original designer dress..


    Sarah loved how a happy soul she was and went to prepare Iris bath.


    ¡°Iris, please go take your bath. Lunch will be ready soon, Sarah said.


    ¡°Iris, Ryan is very strict and likes things to be done how he chooses; don¡¯t keep him waiting, don¡¯t lie to him, andstly, always look expensive and ssy.¡±


    ¡°Please try not to upset him; just follow all the things I said so we can both be fine.¡± Sarah said that and left.


    Sarah Iris called her back. ¡°Please get me a ss of water,¡± okay, Iris.


    ¡°Thank you, Iris said undress and went into the bathtub. The water was so refreshing she thought about her new life. I hope for the best, she said to herself.


    While bathing, she heard a creaking sound from the door. ¡°Who is there? Sarah? Sarah, is that you?¡± Iris said, but got no response.


    She heard the sound of shattered ss.


    Hurriedly, she came out of the bathtub. Before she could think of taking her towel, she rushed out of the bathroom, scared of who it would be, forgetting that she ran out naked¡­..

 Chapter 4

    ¡°I know you are a stripper, but you should have some dignity left in you, ¡± Ryan said, running his eyes over her from head to toe.


    Walking away from the broken ss, he still stole side nces at Iris, her breast stood firm on her chest and her  neatly shaved pussy, slightly turning him on.


    ¡°OMG, I am sorry,¡±


    She quickly took the towel lying on the bed and wrapped herself. ¡°You could at least knock beforeing in.¡±


    ¡°You scared me. Iris spoke shyly and disappointedly at the same time.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need to remind you that this is my house, and I go into whichever room I like, however I want¡±. Ryan replied.


    Unable to get off the naked view of Iris¡¯ body from his head, he walked closely to her, every step he took, made Iris¡¯ heart skip, her heartbeat steadily increasing and could be heard by anyone standing close to her, she got weak to her knees.


    He got close enough to her, to think she could hardly breathe, as she felt choked by the strong cologne he was wearing, he wrapped his hands around her waist and brought her more closely to himself  as their bodies intertwined.


    He brought his face closer to hers and stares deeply into her eyes, turning his head and moving his lips to her he said  ¡°Get the maids to clean this mess  up.¡±


    ¡°Your wedding dress will arrive soon. Pick the one you like and get ready to go see my parents afterwards.¡± Ryan said that and left.


    Okay, Iris replied with a shaking voice. Feeling disappointed, embarrassed and in pain as her cheeks flushed red.


    ¡°What the heck was I thinking? I was so stupid to have fallen so helpless to even think he was gonna kiss me, he¡¯s just an asshole.¡±


    As shey down on her bed, thinking about what just happened, she noticed she was already wet in her down part.


    ¡°Fuck,¡± she cussed, went into the bathroom to wash herself up.


    She came out of the bathroom and took out her phone to call her mother.


    ¡°Hello, mom, How are you doing?¡±


    ¡°I am fine, Iris. How is work going, sweetheart?¡±


    ¡°Work is going great, mom. How are you feeling?¡±


    ¡°I am much better, Iris.¡±


    ¡°Ok, ma, take good care of yourself. I love you.¡±


    ¡°I love you too, sweetheart.¡±


    ¡°Mom, you are the reason I am doing all this.¡± While deep in her thoughts, she slept off, waking up to the knock on her door.


    ¡°Hold on, Iris said. As she puts on her clothes,¡± you can nowe in.¡±Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    ¡°Sorry for the bother, Iris, but a seamstress is here to see you; please let her in,¡± as Iris instructed.


    Iris dresses were brought, and she sized them and chose the one that fitted her the most; she looked so beautiful.


    ¡°I have made my choice; you can leave with the rest, ¡± Iris said, and the seamstress left with Sarah behind her.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe I¡¯m getting married. Well,  it¡¯s a fake wedding, but everything feels real,¡± Iris thought within herself.


    Iris prepared to go see Ryan¡¯s family. She dressed in one of her favorite designer collections; she looked so beautiful that Ryan was caught stealing nces from her. They got into the car and drove to his parents mansion.


    They were given a warm reception, Iris was weed,  Mr. Kendrick and his wife Rose were delighted to meet with Ryan¡¯s fiancee.


    The dinner table was set, and they moved to eat, ¡± so tell me, Iris, what do you do for a living, and who are your parents? ¡°Well, sir, I¡­  ¡°She¡¯s a fashion designer, and she lost her dad; she have just her mom,¡± Ryan, cut in.


    ¡°Oh, I see, Mr. Kendrick replied.


    ¡°So how long have you both been dating?¡±


    ¡± For over 5 months now, dad.¡± ¡± Would you let your fiance speak for herself, Ryan?¡± Mrs. Rose said to Ryan.


    ¡°She¡¯s a shy type, mom. That¡¯s why I am speaking for her;  ¡°he is speaking the truth, ma. Iris said


    ¡°Oh, I see..¡±


    ¡°Eating without me is not fair,¡± Ivy said out of the blue.


    ¡°And you, what are you doing in my house?¡± Ivy barked at Iris.


    ¡°Be nice to your brother¡¯s fiance, Ivy¡±. Mrs. Rose spoke.


    ¡°Mum, she can¡¯t be my brother¡¯s wife; she¡¯s so ugly and disrespectful, ¡°Ivy said.


    ¡°My wedding is tomorrow; Ryan broke the news.


    ¡°You can¡¯t be serious, Ryan. You can¡¯t marry her¡±, Ivy said.


    ¡°I have chosen her, and that is final, ¡°Ryan said.


    ¡°Are you sure about this, sweetheart?¡± Mrs. Rose asked


    ¡°Yes, mom, you and Dad have always wanted me to settle down. Well, I am ready now.¡± Ryan replied.


    Mr. Kendrick looked at Iris and Ryan and nodded his head.


    ¡± I will have to inform my friends, associates, and business colleagues immediately.¡±


    ¡°Dad, please, I don¡¯t want an borate wedding, just something very little, ¡± Ryan pleaded.


    ¡°Okay, if that is what you want, son,¡± he said.


    Ivy was busy giving Iris a hard stare, which made Iris very ufortable, until dinner was over and they headed back to their house.


    ******************


    The grand hall echoed with the symphony of hushed whispers as Iris, adorned in a gown of ivory silk, walked down the aisle toward Ryan.


    The tension was palpable, and as the officiant began the ceremony, the exchange of vows hung heavy in the air. Ryan¡¯s blue suit hugged his tall, well-built body, and he uttered, ¡°I take you, Iris, as mywfully wedded wife.¡±


    His tone, devoid of warmth, sent shivers down Iris¡¯s spine.


    Iris, her voice tinged with uncertainty, responded, ¡°I, too, take you, Ryan, as mywfully wedded husband.¡±


    The weight of those words lingered, a foreboding acknowledgment of a union based on deceit.


    ¡°Wee to the family, my dear,¡± Mrs. Rose whispered. ¡°Tha.. Thank you, ma.¡± Iris smiled.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get toofortable; watch your back. It is not going to be rosy for you; I will make this marriage a living hell for you, my dear,¡± Ivy said in a wispy tone.


    With that, she gave Iris a fake smile and left.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a mere threat; she really can¡¯t do anything, but why does she hate me so much¡±? Iris asked herself.


    All attention was drawn to the sound of a loud screaming from outside the hall.


    It was Ivy¡¯s squeaky friends whom she invited; they got into a fight, trying to get the attention of a personal bodyguard to Ryan.


    ¡°Can this day get any worse? exhausted,¡± Iris said.


    She tried moving out to see what really happened. ¡°Where are you going? Ryan asked.


    ¡°I was trying to..¡±


    ¡°I am sure you know we have to make this marriage real for every reporter, nosy paparazzi, and everyone around us. I hope you are ready and up to the task.¡±Ryan asked.


    ¡°I am up for it, Iris said.


    ¡°Good, now let¡¯s go. Get into the car.


    Iris, already tired, quietly got into the car, Ryan got into the car and the driver took them home.


    Ryan¡¯s mansion was beautifully decorated for the newlywed couples, all thanks to Ryan¡¯s mother.


    Ryan, not surprised by the decorations, left Iris and rushed into his room.


    His phone rings, and he picks it up.


    ¡°The marriage is done; what¡¯s next?¡± said the unknown caller.


    ¡°My father will be announcing me as his heir officially and giving me ess to all his property. After that, I will dissolve this whole cage called marriage.¡±


    ¡°Ok, I will talk to youter¡±, said the unknown caller, and ended the call.


    He heard a knock from the door. ¡°Come in,¡± Ryan said.


    ¡°Sir Ryan, Iris has just been arrested and is about to be taken away.¡± Sarah spoke.


    ¡°Arrested ? What are you saying,¡± Sarah!!!

 Chapter 5

    ¡± Ma Ivy came in with some policemen to get her arrested, ¡± Sarah said.


    Ryan rushed out to see for himself, running through the stairs.


    Ryan missed his steps and had a great fall.


    ¡°SIR RYAN,¡± Sarah screamed, rushing to Ryan on the floor in pain.


    ¡°My he¡­hea¡­ Ryan said in almost what sounded like a whisper, as his view became blurry and his eyes went shut.


    ¡°Ryan! Ryan! Iris rushed to him and held him close to herself. Someone, please call the ambnce. Sarah quickly called an ambnce,¡± Iris screamed.


    ¡°See what you have caused, Ivy fired get away from him, Ryan, Ryan please wake up,¡± Ivy said.


    The ambnce came in no time, and Ryan was carried inside the ambnce by the EMT.


    Iris rushed to enter with him, but Ivy would not let her go in, so she pushed Iris out of the way and entered the ambnce.


    Iris rushed into the house, picked a car key with a Benz logo on it, and pressed the key to know which car it was, as there were different Benz in the car park.


    She got into the car that responded to the key and followed the ambnce, they got to the hospital, and Ryan was rushed to the VIP emergency room.


    Ivy followed in, but Iris was restricted from going in.


    Iris sat down at the reception, thinking, worried, and confused at the same time.


    ¡°Oh, good Lord, let nothing happen to Ryan.¡± She said a prayer.


    While waiting for the doctor toe out of the emergency room, Iris slept off.


    ¡°Iris, where is my son? Mrs. Rose asked impatiently.


    ¡°He is in the emergency room,¡± Iris said weakly.


    ¡°What exactly happened to my son, Iris? I hope you are not responsible for this misfortune that happened to my son,¡± Mrs Rose said rudely.


    ¡°Calm down, Rose; can¡¯t you see she¡¯s already stressed? ¡°I don¡¯t care, darling.¡± Mrs. Rose said.


    The doctor attending to Ryan came out.


    ¡°Hello Doctor Parker, wee Mr. Kendrick, Ryan sustained a minor injury; he copsed due to the force with which his head hit the ground and a little fracture on his ankle, but he will be fine¡±.


    ¡°He just needs to rest. When he wakes up, you can all go see him,¡± the doctor said.


    Immediately, Ivy was seening out of the emergency room.


    ¡°How is your brother?¡± Mrs. Rose rushed to her.


    ¡°Mum, he¡¯s fine; he¡¯s sleeping now.¡±


    ¡± And what the hell are you still doing here you bloody stripper and harlot?¡± Ivy fired.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Iris spoke, her voice shaking with tears rolling down her eyes.


    ¡°You caused all the¡­.., oh shut the fuck up, you cheap slot¡±. Ivy mmed,


    ¡°You think we were not gonna find out? I knew you were a pretender and up to no good; you¡¯re just a gold digger.¡± Ivy roared.


    ¡°Enough Ivy, Mr. Kendrick spoke. ¡± What are you saying, and what is going on here? Why are you calling her names?¡±


    ¡°Dad Iris here is not a fashion designer or whatever she ims to be; she¡¯s a stripper who brainwashed Ryan to marry her.¡± Ivy fired.


    ¡°What? Are you sure about what you just said?¡±


    Mrs. Rose asked.


    ¡°Yes, Mom, I did my findings and got to know about her dirty life,¡± Ivy said with a smirk on her face.


    Iris stood there speechless, her heart pounding so fast that she just wished the ground would open up and swallow her.


    Mr. Kendrick had a natural look on his face and just kept calm.


    ¡°Hello, ma¡¯am, Mr. Ryan is awake. The nurse assigned to Ryan said.


    They all rushed into the room and saw Ryan, with a bandage wrapped around his head and ankle.


    ¡°How are you feeling now? Mrs. Rose, I¡¯m fine, Mom, just that my head hurts¡±, Ryan replied.


    ¡°Oh, Ryan, thank God you are fine. I was so scared¡±. Ivy sat beside Ryan and held his hands.


    ¡°What was the wholemotion about? You wanted to get Iris arrested, why?¡± Ryan asked.


    ¡°How can you get married to a stripper, Ryan? Didn¡¯t you think about your reputation and your father¡¯s name?¡± Mrs Rose asked.


    ¡°Mom, she¡¯s my choice, please don¡¯t start here, not now,¡± Ryan replied.


    ¡°Ryan, so you lied to us? You knew about her dirty life, and you still went ahead to marry her? Oh good Lord, why didn¡¯t I find out before the marriage?¡± Mrs. Rose said.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, Rose. Let¡¯s go home, Ivy. Let¡¯s go.


    ¡°Is that all you are going to say?¡± Mrs. Rose asked her husband.


    ¡°Get well soon, Mr. Kendrick said, and he went out.


    Ivy and Mrs. Rose followed Mr. Kendrick outside, both giving Iris an evil look.


    ¡°Ryan¡­I.  Not now, Iris. Ryan cuts in. I don¡¯t want to hear anything you have to say; I should have just stayed back in my room ande pick you up from the police station muchter.¡±


    ¡°Iris replied in a shaky voice, but I didn¡¯t do anything¡­.. How is all this my fault?¡±


    ¡°Enough, Iris; if you won¡¯t keep shut, you can use the door.¡± Ryan fired.


    Iris felt like her world wasing to an end. ¡°What wrong had she done? She asked herself.


    ¡°I¡¯m just bad luck, she said to herself.


    ¡°How are you feeling now?¡± Iris asked Just before Ryan could respond, the doctor came in.


    ¡°I see you are fine now; you will be discharged soon. Ok, doctor Parker, thank you.¡± Ryan said.


    Ryan was discharged, and they both went home. Iris tried helping Ryan up to his room when they got home, but Ryan bluntly refused.


    ¡°Call me Peter, Ryan said to Iris, But I can help you to your room. ¡°I said, call me. Peter Ryan raised his voice.¡±Okay, Iris said.


    She called Peter, and Peter came in immediately.


    ¡°Come help me to my room. Peter immediately rushed to his aid and took him to his room¡­


    Exhausted, Iris went to her room, and as soon as her body touched the bed, she zoomed off to Dreand.


    Meanwhile, in Ryan¡¯s room, he wakes up from sleep to the sound of his ringing tone.


    ¡°Hello, Dad,


    ¡°How are you feeling now, son?


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Dad.¡±Okay, I wanted you toe over to the house.¡±


    ¡°Okay, Dad, I will being right away¡­


    ¡°Why the rush, son? You cane over when you are much stronger.


    ¡°I am strong, dad. I will be home shortly.


    Ryan said and ended the call.


    I am certain Dad wants to inform me that he will be transferring all his property to me and making it official, yes, finally. Ryan said and jumped ¡°Ouch, remembering his hurt head and ankle¡­


    Let me prepare. I am going there right away ¡­


    Ryan got to his father¡¯s mansion and went straight to his study room.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    ¡°Dad, yes, son¡­


    ¡°Son, did you fly down here? That was fast,¡± Mr. Kendrick smiled and said,


    ¡°Well, I didn¡¯t want to keep you waiting since you said you wanted to talk to me, ¡± Ryan said.


    ¡°How is your wife? Mr Kendrick asked.


    ¡°Dad, she¡¯s fine.


    Ryan replied anxiously, waiting to hear what he had to say.


    ¡°Ok, son, well, I am going to be brief.


    Ever since you got married we haven¡¯t had time to talk; I am happy you have chosen to settle down and that shows you are ready to shoulder responsibilities.


    Well, there has been a change of ns about officially handing over the empire to you¡­.

 Chapter 6

    ¡°Dad, what do you mean by that?


    You told me I would have to get married and be responsible, which I have done.


    So what is this you are saying?


    Ryan¡¯s worry grew as Mr Kendrick remained calm.


    ¡°Son I never said the empire would not be handed over to you, what I¡¯m simply saying is that, your marriage has to be over 2 years with a child, then the empire would be handed over to you.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    What!!


    Dad, are you even listening to yourself?


    This wasn¡¯t the agreement, stick to your words Dad.


    Why are you depriving me of my rights?


    Do you hate me this much?


    I thought you were my father and you loved me?


    Answer me, Dad!


    Mr Kendrick remained calm, looking at Ryan.


    Your marriage has to be 2 years old with a child before getting anything, and that is final.


    With that Ryan stormed out of his father¡¯s study room in a rage almost hitting his mother he left in his car and drove off.


    Darling, what happened? Mrs Rose asked entering into her husband¡¯s study room.


    I told him about the change of ns and it didn¡¯t go well with him.


    Oh, I see, well he has to ept it he has no choice, he almost pushed me down on his way out.


    Forgive him, darling, he¡¯s just being a boy.


    Well, by the way, I came to call you toe eat lunch.


    Okay sweetheart, let¡¯s go together.


    They both held hands and went to the dining room.


    Ryan, driving like a man whose wife is inbor, had a lot on his te.


    Firstly how would he boast to people that he was now in charge of the Empire and everything concerning it, secondly he had Iris to deal with.


    Telling her that the contract would have to be for 2 years and not 1, the worst that pricked his heart was the child he was supposed to have also.


    He didn¡¯t want his child, toe from a stripper with no background, not his first child


    Ryan was confused and lost at the same time on what to do.


    On getting home he met Ivy in the sitting room.


    ¡°What up bro, how are you doing? Not getting the reply she wanted, she turned her gaze to Ryan who was standing close to her.


    She saw the way his face was and asked


    ¡°Why are you looking like a punched doughnut?


    Ryan let his body drop down in his cushion like a lifeless being, whose spirit has been taken out of him.


    Dad is the worst ever, Ryan said


    Ryan?


    ¡°And why would you say that?


    ¡°Can you imagine after getting married, he still refuses me ess to his empire, saying I would have to be married for 2 years with a child before anything gets to me?


    ¡°But that¡¯s easy, ¡± Ivy said as she munched on the peanut she took from the fridge earlier on.


    You are married, so just enjoy your marriage and have a child, it is so simple.


    Simple? Ryan scoffed


    I don¡¯t think you understand what is happening to me.


    Nothing is happening to Ryan, stop being an asshole.


    You are distracting me from the series. I am watching she said as Ryan kept talking.


    Thest time I checked this is not your house, you have a house so get up and leave, Rtan fired.


    Am not going anywhere Ivy retorted, am not joking with you Ivy I said leave, go and get a life for yourself.


    No boyfriend, no genuine friends. You are alone!!!


    Ryan screamed to Ivy, with this Ivy¡¯s eyes became teary instantly and she ran into the room and locked herself, crying¡­


    Thest time Ryan spoke to Ivy in that tone was when a video of her having sex with her boyfriend was leaked in high school, he was so furious and mmed hurtful words to her.


    And now he has just done it again, he felt hurt this time because she wasn¡¯t the cause of his anger.


    Ivy was in her room crying, she stood up and started packing her luggage.


    I don¡¯t me him, I am still in his house that¡¯s why he¡­she was cut short by the knock on her door.


    Can Ie in? Ryan said softly.


    Suit yourself, Ivy replied, Still packing up.


    And why are you packing up?? Where are you going?..


    I owe you no exnation so fuck off, Ivy retorted.


    Now that¡¯s not a nice way to talk to your sweet brother, Ryan chuckled.


    Ivy looked at her brother, rolled her eyes and scoffed.


    Now you know you are my brother after almost bringing down the house in me with your voice.


    It won¡¯t happen again, stop packing, Ryan said.


    ¡°How is saying, am sorry please don¡¯t go so hard for you to say, when will you change Ryan? Ivy blurted out.


    Ryan rubbing his head and his other hand in his pocket, looking like someone who didn¡¯t know what Ivy was talking about, replied..


    Coming to your room to ask you to stop packing, isn¡¯t it enough?


    You know I am sorry about the way I spoke to you.


    Then just say it gosh.. Ivy said


    Ryan smiles and leaves her room¡­.


    He had a lot on his mind, his father¡¯s change of mind towards the empire, telling Iris about the change of n was the main thing, she has things to do with her life¡­..


    She wouldn¡¯t want to be stuck with me for 2 years, much more having a child.


    I don¡¯t want her around either, this is what I have always hated being tied down with a woman all in the name of marriage. Ryan thought to himself,


    Well, I will have to make another proposal, the empire must be released to me, I would make sure of that.


    Ryan got to his room, hey on his bed  contemting his future with the empire and his strained rtionship with Iris. He got  up and poured his whiskey into a ss cup and gulped it all at once.


    Hearing some little sound, he noticed someone was in his room too, carefully he went to his wardrobe where he kept his gun and pulled it out¡­..


    He walked slowly into the inner room in his room, the door was already opened, who could it be he wondered, he walked down the few stairs leading to the inner room.


    He saw a shadow, but wasn¡¯t sure of who it was.


    ¡°You are so dead tonight, ¡± he said within himself and held the gun out to the figure which was visible but still couldn¡¯t see who it was.


    The light in the inner room was dim, so he couldn¡¯t see the figure clearly.


    He wished he had brighter lights, the shadow was about to move when Ryan pulled the trigger¡­.


    The next thing the room echoed with the sound of  a gunshot¡­¡­

 Chapter 7

    ¡°Oh my God¡±, Iris screamed.


    ¡°It¡¯s me, please don¡¯t kill me¡±, shey on the floor trembling, curved like a newborn baby crying.


    Iris? Ryan called.


    ¡°What are you doing here¡±?


    ¡°Are you trying to steal from me¡±?


    ¡°Get up now¡±, Ryan said.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t kill me, I was bored and only ca¡­.. I said get up¡±, Ryan shouted.


    With that Iris jumped up, with her head bowed, hot tears rolled down her eyes as she kept shaking.


    ¡°Follow me¡±, Ryan said.


    Iris followed him quietly into his room, ¡°get on your knees¡± Ryan ordered.


    Iris quickly knelt, ¡°please don¡¯t kill me forgive me¡±.


    Ryan still holding the gun pointed at Iris, and said.


    ¡°So you wanted to steal from me right¡±?


    ¡°No no, I would never do such, I¡­ I just wanted to look around the house because I was bo¡­. bored that¡¯s all, I promise it will never happen again..¡±


    Iris was scared to death seeing Ryan holding a gun, he almost shot her inside the inner room.


    What would have happened to her mother, her career she thought.


    Her curiosity led her to Ryan¡¯s inner room, she had onlye to check if he was in his room, when she saw the inner room door open.


    She was surprised to know he had an inner room. She had been to his room before but didn¡¯t notice the door, and that was because the door was a beautiful artwork with no handle or keyhole, no one would have thought that was a door.


    So she was surprised to see the door open. When she went into the room, she was speechless¡­.


    The room was a treasure trove of memories. Past pictures adorned the walls, capturing moments frozen in time and glimpses into the life of the enigmatic billionaire. Iris marveled at the visual narrative, each frame telling a story of a life lived behind closed doors.


    A wine shelf stood as a testament to refined tastes and solitary contemtion. The room emanated an air of solitude, a retreat for Ryan when he sought quiet amid the chaos of his eternal life.


    As Iris absorbed the details, her eyes fell upon a side she hadn¡¯t expected: a table adorned with substances that spoke of a darker indulgence. The realization that this was where Ryan indulged in the hard drugs that temporarily whisked him away from his reality hit her with a mixture of shock and concern. Her exploration, however, was cut short when she heard a gunshot.


    ¡°Well if you don¡¯t want me to shoot you, what will be your punishment¡±? Ryan asked.


    ¡°Anything.. anything, but please don¡¯t shoot me¡± Iris begged.


    ¡°Anything you say? Ryan mischievously smiled and asked.


    ¡°Yes yes¡­¡± iris replied


    ¡°Alright then, you would birth me a child before we terminate the contract¡¯, Ryan said with a cold face.


    Iris¡¯ eyes bulged out immediately.


    ¡°What!!!!!!!!¡±


    ¡°Give birth to a child for you¡±?


    ¡°Are you being serious right now? This was not part of the contract, I am not doing it¡±.


    ¡°Looks like you do have a choice here¡±, Ryan said


    ¡°Your death would be so smooth but where is the fun if I kill you alone?


    ¡°Let¡¯s say I kill your mother first in your presence before killing you. That would be more fun, don¡¯t you think¡±? Ryan chuckled, kissing his gun.


    ¡°Leave my mother out of this, it¡¯s me you want, so don¡¯t you dare touch my mother¡±?


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be bbing if I were you, I am only trying to help you here¡±. He said.


    ¡°Do you know how many girls would jump on this offer¡±?


    ¡°After all your life is up to no good, you are only a stripper nothing more, Ryan said.


    ¡°I¡¯m a stripper and so what¡±?


    ¡°You dare speak to me in that manner?¡± he growled.


    ¡°You ungrateful good for nothing, wretched stripper¡±


    ¡°You have no right to judge me, you were only privileged not like it was your right¡±.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get toofortable, you never can tell what ising for you, watch your back, ¡± Iris fired.


    ¡°Did I just speak to the most ruthless and feared billionaire in town? Am in for trouble she thought.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Ryan¡¯s mood grew cold and he held Iris¡¯ wrist so tight, I give you 24 hours to make a decision, don¡¯t keep me waiting.


    Ryan moved closer to Iris as they shared breaths, he moved his head slightly to her ears, ¡°watch your back too hunny¡± he whispered, and kissed her neck, sending a cold sensation to her body as her knees grew weak instantly.


    ¡°Get out of my room¡±, he barked.


    Iris immediately put herself together and left his room, she got to her room and fell on the bed as she started crying.


    Her ringing phone brought her back to reality as she saw the caller ID, Mom.


    ¡°She quickly wiped her tears and picked up,


    ¡°Hello sweetheart, how are you doing¡±.


    ¡°Am fine Mom, am sorry I haven¡¯t called you, have been busy with my new job¡±.


    ¡°Iris, are you okay?


    ¡°You sound off, that is what I am trying to exin Mom. I have just been so choked up¡±.


    ¡°Hope you are fine,


    ¡°I am okay sweetheart, Skr has been taking care of me, she¡¯s here¡±.


    ¡°Ok Mom, give her the phone¡±.


    ¡°Hey Iris, how are you doing¡±?


    ¡°Am fine Sky,¡±


    ¡°Are you sure? yes sky, alright¡±.


    ¡°Iris, mom¡¯s drugs are almost out, she needs recement¡±.


    ¡°Ohh, ok sky I will send some money to you soon¡±.


    ¡°Please take care of her¡±.


    ¡°I wille to see her soon, bye¡±.


    Hot tears streamed down Iris¡¯s cheeks, as little boils of heat could be seen gathered on her forehead.


    Iris was restless, her mother¡¯s drugs were almost out which was not good.


    Iris could remember the early hours of a rainy day, she had just gotten back from the club where she stayed, she got home, took a hot bath, and went to bed.


    Surprised her mother hadn¡¯te to wake her up like she normally does, she went to her mother¡¯s room to check on her, only to find her lying helpless on the floor.


    ¡°M¡­. mom, mom wake up


    ¡°Please, Mom, wake up


    ¡°Iris immediately ran into her room, picked up her phone, and called an ambnce.

 Chapter 8

    Mrs. Jessica was rushed to the emergency room, Iris wasn¡¯t allowed inside she could be seen restlessly walking to and fro, Skr arrived at the hospital and immediately Iris ran into her arms, at the sight of her


    ¡°Hush now girl, your mom is going to be fine¡±, Skr consoled me.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to lose my mother, she¡¯s all I got¡± Iris mumbled amidst tears.


    ¡°We won¡¯t lose her Iris, please calm down okay¡±?


    ¡°Okay sky¡±, Iris replied.


    After sitting for some hours, the doctor came out.


    ¡°Miss Iris¡­ the doctor called


    ¡°Yes doctor, can I see you in my office¡±?


    ¡°Sure doctor¡±.


    Skr moved back about to sit when Iris motioned to follow her.


    She held Skr¡¯s hand and the doctor led the way.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    They got into an office which was afortable and well-lit space designed for confidential discussions with patients. There was a desk where the doctor sat to review medical records and discuss treatment ns.


    There were two chairs for patients, opposite the doctor, creating a rxed environment for openmunication.


    Aputer was on his desk for essing electronic health records, and medical literature, or to show visual aids to patients.


    The walls were adorned with medical charts or diagrams to help exin conditions to patients and there might be a phone for follow-up calls or to discuss test results she doesn¡¯t know for sure.


    But that wasn¡¯t her problem, she wanted to know what was wrong with her mother.


    ¡°Well Miss Iris, we were lucky to revive your mother¡±, the doctor said.


    Iris tensed to her bone marrow, spoke¡­


    ¡°Doctor, what is wrong with my mother¡±?


    ¡°Will she be fine? Please talk to me¡±.


    ¡°Calm down Miss Iris, your mother was diagnosed with Hypertensive chronic kidney disease¡±.


    ¡°What!!!!!!¡± Iris and Skr chorused.


    ¡°Please calm down¡±, the doctor said


    ¡°Your mother needs a kidney transnt immediately because the kidney she¡¯s relying on now is also failing¡±. The doctor exined.


    ¡°Doctor please go ahead with the transnt¡±, Iris cut in.


    ¡°Well payment has to be made¡±, the doctor replied


    ¡°And how much would that be a doctor¡±? Skr asked.


    ¡°It would cost 500, 000$ for the transpl¡­.¡±


    ¡°500 what!!!!!! Iris screamed.


    ¡°Where would I get such an amount from¡±?


    ¡°I barely earn 1, 000$ from the odd jobs I do, how can I earn this much¡±?


    ¡°Doctor please help me, I don¡¯t have such an amount¡±, Iris pleaded.


    ¡°Well, the only option is for her to be ced on drugs, which she will be given 3 times a week¡±.


    Tears filled Iris¡¯s eyes as she was confused and didn¡¯t know what to do. She has no one to run to or call for help.


    Mrs. Jessica was discharged and taken back home, Iris doubled her odd jobs and added striping, she was introduced to stripping by Skr¡­


    Iris was brought back to reality by the knock on the door¡­


    ¡°Come in, she responded.


    ¡°It was Sarah..¡±


    ¡°Dinner is ready ma¡±, Sarah said


    ¡°I will be down shortly¡±,


    ¡°Ok ma iris¡±, Sarah replied


    Iris made up her mind to agree to Ryan¡¯s proposal, she was in already and it was toote to turn back.


    In order not to keep Ryan waiting, she quickly changed into something else and went downstairs for dinner.


    Iris got to the dinner table and sat down, while her food was being served Ryan didn¡¯t take his eyes off her, and that made her ufortable.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know your slut would still be around, ¡± Ivy said, walking in.


    Ivy sat and her food was served.


    Iris¡¯ stomach turned like a washing machine, she knew she was hungry but refused to eat.


    ¡°Starving yourself won¡¯t do you no good¡±, Ryan said


    Iris knew that within herself but still paid deaf ears, ¡°mind your business¡± she blurted.


    ¡°I won¡¯t have you talk to my brother like that¡± ¡± Ivy replied


    ¡°Then teach your brother some manners¡±, Iris left the dining and headed straight to her room.


    Leaving Ivy¡¯s eyes open like they were about to fall out and her jaw dropped.


    ¡°Did you just let her go¡±?


    ¡°You didn¡¯t even say anything, she needs to be taught some lessons, she¡¯s so rude¡±. ivy barked


    ¡°Let her be¡±, Ryan said.


    ¡°Really¡±??


    Ryan raised his hand before she could say another word and concentrated on his food.


    He beckoned one of his guards and asked them to prepare one of the cars.


    After dinner Ryan went to his room to change up, d in a refined tuxedo suit he left for the club. He entered the exclusive VIP lounge at the club. The ambient music and dim lighting created an atmosphere of opulence. He lit a cigar and sipped on a ss of aged whiskey as he watched the mesmerizing dance of the strippers.


    Luca, his friend and confidant, joined him. The clinking sses and distant beats provided a backdrop for their conversation.


    ¡°Hey Man, what¡¯s up?¡± Luca said, sitting down opposite Ryan.


    ¡°A lot buddy, the old man won¡¯t hand over the empire¡±, Ryan said.


    Luca leaning back,¡± What¡¯s on your mind¡±?


    ¡°I¡¯ve got this idea. I want Iris to bear my child before the contract ends. Make itst longer, just like the old man wanted¡±, Ryan replied.


    Luca raised an eyebrow, ¡°Iris? You think she¡¯ll agree to that¡±?


    Ryan smirked, ¡°I¡¯ve got it all mapped out. She¡¯lle around¡±.


    ¡°That¡¯s a risky move, Ryan. What if she declines¡±? Luca said skeptical.


    Ryan leaned in, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Luca. I¡¯ve got it under control¡±.


    The pulsating music and the sway of the dancers heightened the intensity of their discussion.


    (Ryan nodding towards the dancers)  ¡°You know, Luca, sometimes you¡¯ve got to y the game to win¡±.


    ¡°Luca leaning back with a chuckle. You always did have a way with games¡±.


    Theyughed, raising their sses to the unfolding n. Strippers approached, dancing to the rhythm, adding ayer of hedonistic indulgence to the conversation.


    Luca eyeing Ryan,¡± You¡¯re not wasting any time tonight, are you¡±?


    ¡°Never do,¡± Ryan said smirking,


    With that, Ryan left the VIP lounge with one of the strippers.


    The drive home was a hot one, as the stripper had already understood her assignment, she used her hands to rub his trousers, making his cock beneath to jolt, she noticed the move and continued, as she felt the hardness below¡­..


    They arrived home, and Ryan¡¯s sexual urge couldn¡¯t be controlled as he brought home different girls every night, Iris being a deep sleeper never noticed.


    Iris, unable to catch any sleep, had her eyes wide open and her head racing with different thoughts on what Ryan told her earlier that day¡­


    ¡°My life doesn¡¯t belong to me anymore, what have I gotten myself into¡±,  she said to herself thinking aloud with tears rolling down her pretty cupped face.


    I have to do all it takes so Mum is back on her feet again, she¡¯s the only thing I have got, she said.


    While Iris was in her room thinking, Ryan and thedy he took from the club, started from the sitting room, kissing each other roughly¡­¡­


    Ryan grabbed her and she wrapped her leg around him, making it easy for Ryan to lift her, as they headed to his room her leg hit one of the room doors, jerking Iris off her thought, she quickly stood up from her bed, rushing to see what that loud thud was about¡­¡­..

 Chapter 9

    Ryan took her to his room ripping off her clothes on the way, he ced her on his bed naked, still rough kissing her, she helped him remove his clothes as she could feel his bare chest, not ready to dig into her immediately, he tortured her with pain of pleasure, biting her hard nipple which lead to soft moaning¡­.


    Iris, unsure of where the noise wasing from, walked passed the room and paused on Ryan¡¯s door as it was left open..


    She couldn¡¯t believe her eyes. Iris was dismayed, a sting of pain pierced through her heart. Her legs immediately felt heavy to move, as she was weak to her knees, she managed to drag her feet to lean on the wall and she moved slowly to her room, climbed her bed and curled up herself as hot tears fell from her eyes.


    ¡°Iris, why are you crying? Why do you care if he¡¯s with another woman? Have you forgotten you are only married to him based on a contract¡±?.


    ¡°So what the tears  all about¡±? She questioned herself, not knowing what answers to give.


    ¡°But why do I feel so hurt¡±? Iris said.


    ¡°I¡¯m trapped, I can¡¯t live my life how I want to, yet I¡¯m tortured emotionally¡±. She spoke to herself with tears rolling down her cheeks.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t even care about my feelings, I wish this all charade would juste to an end, I am tired and can¡¯t take it any more¡±¡­.


    Ryan didn¡¯t go soft on her, of course she was a whore and she would get a whore pleasure, her moaning turned into a scream of pleasure as he pushed his erection into her forcefully, she gasped and arched her back.


    He choked the life out of her while thrusting in and out of her like a horse, with her breast bouncing, her vagina wet and sloppy noises heard.


    Irisid on her bed, uncertain why the felt hurt by what she saw, she couldn¡¯t sleep the moaning was


    Intensified, frustrated she stood up and pushed down everything on her table and dragged down the beautiful purple nket, pillow and bedsheets.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Fuck! She eximed


    Looking at the mess she made, she took the pillows, climbed up the bare bed and covered her ears with the pillow and zoomed off to dreand¡­.


    *********************


    Ryan, awakened by the gentle caress of sunlight through the curtains, stretched his body with anguid grace.


    His discerning eyes scanned the room, realizing thedy from the night had departed as per his routine. The unspoken agreement with his guards was clear  anypanion brought into the house would be discreetly paid off and sent away before he rose the next morning.


    With a practiced nonchnce, he rose from the bed and made his way to the shower, the cascading water serving as a brief respite from theplexities of his life.


    A swift routine of brushing his teeth followed, each action executed with a precision that mirrored the controlled chaos of his world.


    Dressed in the aftermath of his morning rituals, Ryan¡¯s path led him to Iris¡¯s room.


    He got into the room and saw how Iris¡¯ room was in a mess, his gaze moved from the broken cups, mirror, and mug to the scattered books, bedsheets, duve and clothes on the floor.


    Just as he moved closer to sleeping beauty iris on her bed, he noticed the dried tears on her face, her beautiful pink little lips pouting out, her oval face, tiny pointed nose and her natural longshes.


    Iris was an epitome of beauty, he had just realized but there wasn¡¯t more he could do with her, she was only a means to acquire his father¡¯s empire and nothing much¡­¡­.


    Just as he wanted to move closer to her, his phone rang. He quickly stepped out to pick up the call, not wanting to disturb Iris¡¯s sleep.


    The caller was his private investigator who had eyes on Iris¡¯s mother for him.¡±Yes, what is it?¡± Ryan answered curtly.¡±Sir, I wanted to inform you that Iris¡¯s mother doesn¡¯t stay alone. There¡¯s ady who often stays with her,¡± the investigator reported.


    ¡°Who is she?¡± Ryan asked, intrigued.¡±I¡¯m not sure yet, but I can find out.


    ¡°Yes, do that, meanwhile, I want you to give some money to her and tell her it¡¯s from Iris?¡±Ryan ordered.


    ¡°Make sure she knows it¡¯s from her daughter.¡± ¡°Understood, sir,¡± the investigator responded before ending the call.


    Ryan pocketed his phone and was about to return to Iris¡¯s room when the chef approached him.¡±Sir, breakfast is ready,¡± she informed him. Ryan nodded but didn¡¯t respond, his mind still on the call.


    The chef, understanding his unspokenmand, decided to leave when he spoke, ¡°call my wife so we can eat together¡±


    The chef, aware that Sarah is Iris¡¯ personal maid, informed Sarah to call her for breakfast .


    Sarah knocked softly on Iris¡¯s door but got no response. She opened the door quietly and saw Iris sleeping peacefully.


    She closed the door silently behind her and walked closer to Iris to confirm if she was still sleeping. Seeing that Iris hadn¡¯t moved, she tiptoed to the side of the bed where there was a drawer, bending down slowly, still looking around to ensure Iris was asleep.


    She stretched her hands towards the drawers.


    ¡°Sarah, is that you?¡± Iris asked, her eyes slightly open as she stretched her hands and legs and sat up.


    ¡°Uh-m, y-es yes good- good morning, ma¡¯am Iris,¡± Sarah flinched and stammered, giving a weak smile.


    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re okay?¡± Iris asked, her voiceced with suspicion.¡±Yes, I¡¯m fine. Breakfast is ready. Sir Ryan asked me to call you, and I¡¯m just surprised seeing your room in this mess¡± Sarah replied, trying topose herself.


    ¡°That pig,¡± Iris muttered under her breath, clenching her fists. The thoughts ofst night crawled back into her memory.


    ¡°He will pay for  this, I swear it,¡± she said, grinding her teeth as she spoke.¡±Tell him I¡¯m not hungry. Go now,¡± Iris ordered. Without a word, Sarah left the room. Iris flung the pillow beside her to the ground in frustration.


    Sarah went downstairs, seeing Ryan sitting at the dining table, pressing his phone, his food untouched.


    ¡°I guess he¡¯s waiting for Iris,¡± Sarah thought.


    ¡°Sir Ryan, Iris refused toe downstairs for breakfast,¡± Sarah said cautiously.


    Ryan raised his head, annoyance flickering in his eyes. With a curt nod, he stood up and stormed towards Iris¡¯s room. He pushed the door open, and the sight before him was unforgettable¡­¡­¡­

 Chapter 10

    Iris stood by the window, her hair disheveled and eyes red from crying.


    The room was a mess, a testament to her frustration and anger.¡±What the hell is this?¡± Ryan demanded, looking around the room in disbelief.


    Iris turned to face him, her expression cold and unyielding. ¡°What do you care, Ryan? It¡¯s just a room, right? Just like I¡¯m just a means to an end for you.¡±


    Ryan stepped closer, his frustration palpable. ¡°Stop saying nonsense iris ande with me¡±.


    ¡°Nonsense¡±? Irisughed bitterly. ¡°I heard youst night, Ryan. I saw you. You think I don¡¯t know what this is? You think I don¡¯t feel anything?¡±.


    Ryan chuckled, a cold, mocking sound that sent chills down Iris¡¯s spine. ¡°What do you mean you saw me? And so what if you heard me?¡± he spoke sternly, his voice dripping with contempt. Iris¡¯s heart broke through her eyes, tears streaming down her face.


    ¡°Who was the girlst night?¡± Iris questioned, her voice trembling.


    ¡°Are you by any chance questioning me?¡± Ryan barked, cutting her off. ¡°Are you here to tell me what to do and what not to do? Have you forgotten your ce here so soon?¡± He stepped closer, his rage palpable, causing Iris to flinch.


    ¡°It¡¯s my house! My dick! My life, and I will do what I deem fit, so don¡¯t ever question me again.¡±


    ¡°Except there is something you are not telling me¡±, he slowly walked towards her, each step making her retreat until her back was pressed against the wall. He came so close that she could feel his breath against her skin.


    ¡°Oh my bad, I forgot you¡¯re a whore who always gets prated. Now I know the reason for your pain.


    You should have just asked me, and I would have given it to you so bad that you would always crawl back for more¡±. he whispered, his voice a cruel mockery.


    He tilted his head to her neck, giving her a soft bite and then using his tongue to lick her ear down to her neck slowly.


    ¡°Ohhhh,¡± Iris muttered, her body betraying her as it became fully aroused.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Ryan took one of his hands into her nightgown, trailing his fingers from her knees all the way to her slightly shaved pubic area. He put his pinky finger into her hot, dripping pussy, which felt like water dripping from a slightly broken bottle.


    It was tight, making it difficult for him to move further. He rubbed his wet fingers on her nipples, causing her moaning to increase.


    Iris couldn¡¯t feel her body; she was almost falling apart. Her body tingled in the most absurd way, feeling pain mixed with pleasure as Ryan put his finger inside her.


    Ryan looked at her, her eyes shut and moaning quietly. He suddenly pulled his hand out and gave a loudugh. ¡°You are disgusting and a cheap whore,¡± he blurted. ¡°Dress sexy, you are stripping for me tonight.¡±


    With that he walked out of her room. Before shutting the door. he turned and said, ¡°It¡¯s gonna be 24 hours soon. Prepare my answer tonight.¡± He banged the door and left.


    Iris slid down the wall, copsing onto the floor as a torrent of emotions washed over her. She felt a mix of anger, humiliation, and confusion.


    Her body still tingled from the encounter, but the shame was overwhelming. She had never felt so degraded in her life. Her tears flowed freely now, hot and uncontroble.


    ¡°How could he?¡± she whispered to herself, hugging her knees to her chest. The pain in her heart was almost physical, a sharp, twisting agony that made it hard to breathe. She felt dirty, used, and utterly powerless.


    Yet, there was also a flicker of something else. A defiance that sparked in her chest. She hated how he made her feel, hated how he could manipte her body so easily.


    But more than anything, she hated herself for responding to him, for feeling even a shred of pleasure in such a demeaning situation.


    ¡°I can¡¯t keep living like this,¡± she thought. The contract, the emotional torture it was all bing too much. Iris knew she had to find a way out, to regain some semnce of control over her life. But how? The walls were closing in, and every path seemed blocked by Ryan¡¯s cruel dominance.


    As shey there, feeling both numb and raw, one thing became clear, she needed to reim her strength, to fight back against the circumstances that had trapped her. And she would start tonight, no matter the cost¡­..

 Chapter 11

    Ryan left for the office, His father had call him at the right time, providing a much-needed distraction from the iris.


    The image of Iris¡¯s face, with a mix of fear and contempt shed in his mind, there was something about Iris that intrest him, something that he couldn¡¯t quite ce his hands on.


    Today, he was to be introduced to the new staff members and handle several critical contracts and proposals. The prospect of fresh faces in the office, particrly the rumored pretty new hires, added ayer of excitement to his day.


    He finally arrived at The Kendrick Empire, his chauffeur got down and opened the door for him, stepping into the glorious Empire, a reputable firm built on hard work, resilience, dedication and consistency. Owned by generation before Ryan and now is about to be passed to Ryan.


    The building itself was a modern marvel, with sleek ss exteriors and state-of-the-art facilities, reflecting thepany¡¯s prestigious reputation


    His assistant and close friend, Luca, was waiting for him just outside the office. ¡°Morning, Ryan,¡± Luca greeted, holding out a briefcase.


    ¡°Morning,¡± Ryan replied, a sly smile ying on his lips.


    ¡°What have I missed?¡±


    ¡°Not much, just the usual. But we¡¯ve got some fresh talent joining us today,¡± Lucasaid with a knowing grin. ¡°I think you¡¯ll find them quite¡­ interesting.


    ¡°Ryan chuckled, shaking his head. ¡°Women are always the same,¡± he mused. ¡°Don¡¯t take them too seriously.¡±


    As they walked through the corridors of The Kendrick Empire, staff members paused and stood still, a mark of respect for the man who would soon take over the reins of thepany.


    Ryan and Lucaentered the elevator, which swiftly carried them to the first floor where Ryan¡¯s office was located.


    Ryan¡¯s office was an oasis of ss, a ce where he couldmand the empire he was destined to lead.


    The office was a blend of grandeur and functionality, withrge windows offering an extensive view of the city. The space was dominated by a massive mahogany desk, surrounded byfortable leather chairs.


    His name is boldly written on the door ¡°Director¡±.  To one side, a plush seating area provided a space for informal meetings, while a door at the far end led to a private resting room equipped with a bed, a small bathroom, and a minibar.


    Ryan hung his suit jacket on a coat rack and settled into his chair, while Lucatook a seat across from him.


    ¡°Wee back, Ryan,¡± Lucasaid, leaning back with a smile.¡±Thanks, man.


    How have things been while I was¡­¡¯honeymooning¡¯?¡± Ryan asked, his tone dripping with sarcasm.


    ¡°You know there¡¯s nothing like that between me and that stripper,¡± Ryan scoffed, rolling his eyes. ¡°She¡¯s just a means to an end.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s your wife now. Maybe it¡¯s time to drop the stripper story,¡± Luca Suggested, though his tone was light-hearted.


    Ryan waved off thement. ¡°Let¡¯s get down to business. Call in the new staff.¡±Lucanodded and stepped out briefly before returning with a group of fresh-faced employees.


    They lined up in front of Ryan¡¯s desk, nervous yet eager to make a good impression.¡±Wee to The Kendrick Empire,¡± Ryan began, his authoritative tone making it clear who was in charge.


    ¡°Introduce yourselves.¡±


    One by one, the new hires introduced themselves, detailing their backgrounds and roles within thepany.


    Ryan¡¯s eyes scanned the group, lingering a bit longer on the female employees. There was something about new faces that always intrigued him.


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick, I¡¯m Emily Harper,¡± a striking brte said, her voice steady despite the evident nerves. She was tall, not pretty on the face, with an air of confidence that caught Ryan¡¯s attention.


    But one thing Ryan observed was that she was well endowed with the back side and her chest was well packed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be working in the marketing department.¡±¡±Nice to meet you, Emily,¡± Ryan replied, his eyes locking onto hers for a moment longer than necessary.


    ¡°I look forward to seeing what you bring to the team.¡±The introductions continued, but Ryan¡¯s mind kept drifting back to Emily till the introduction was over and everyone returned to their office.


    ¡°A taste of her I must have,¡± he said to himself, smirking..


    Ryan settled into his leather chair in his office, the weight of his responsibilities pressing down on him. He slipped his hot coffee, burning a path down his throat, yet feeling numb to the thought dancing in his mind.


    The ringing of his office phone broke through his thought, he picked up the telephone, knowing who it would be before he heard the voice on the other end.


    ¡°Ryan, how¡¯s your day at the office going?¡± His father¡¯s voice was asmanding as ever, the authority in it wavering.


    ¡°Productive,¡± Ryan replied, leaning back in his chair. ¡°Met the new staff, handled some contracts. Everything is under control.¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Good,¡± his father responded. ¡°I have high expectations, Ryan. Thepany needs strong leadership, especially now. Make sure you¡¯re focused.


    ¡°I am, Dad. You don¡¯t have to worry¡±.


    There was a pause on the other end before his father spoke again. ¡°And Iris? How is she settling in?¡±


    Ryan¡¯s grip tightened. ¡°She¡¯s¡­ adjusting.


    ¡°Remember, the terms are clear, two years in marriage, an heir. Don¡¯t lose sight of that.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t,¡± Ryan promised, though the words felt hollow even to him.


    ¡°When am I expecting an heir?¡± His father asked.


    ¡°Uh-m Soon dad, very soon, we are working on that¡± Ryan replied.


    As the call ended, Ryan¡¯s thoughts returned to Iris. He stood up, the decision was made. It was time to see if she had prep for the evening as he had instructed.

 Chapter 12

    Iris paced around her room, nerves frying with every passing minute. The event of the morning reyed in her mind, Ryan¡¯s touch both cruel and electrifying. She felt a knot of dread in her stomach, knowing she had to face him again.


    She had dressed as instructed, in a revealing outfit that made her feel more exposed than she had been working as a stripper.


    The thought of stripping for Ryan filled her with both anger and resignation. This was her life now bound by a contract she couldn¡¯t escape and every day brought new humiliations.


    A soft knock on the door broke her from her thoughts. It was Sarah looking ufortable as she stepped inside. ¡°Ma¡¯am, Mr  Ryan is in his room. He asked for you.¡±


    Iris nodded, her heart pounding. Thank you, Sarah. You can go.


    As Sarah left, Iris took a deep breath, trying to muster the strength to face whatevery ahead. She walked to Ryan¡¯s room, her footsteps echoing in the quiet house. The door was slightly opened, and she pushed it open, stepping inside.


    Ryan was standing by the window, the city lights casting a soft glow around him. He turned as she entered, his gaze sweeping over her outfit with an approving glint.


    ¡°You¡¯re here,¡±he said, his voice low. ¡°Good. Close the door.¡±


    Iris did as she was told, feeling the weight of his stare. ¡°Ryan, about this morning¡­..¡±


    He cut her off with a dismissive wave. ¡°We don¡¯t need to talk about that. What I need from you now is simple. Show me what you can do.¡±


    Themand was clear, and Iris felt a surge of defiance. She walked over to the center of the room, the soft carpet muffling her steps.


    Iris was putting on red lingerie, a ck patent leather stripper shoe with her hair let down and a matching red lipstick.


    She began to move, her body obeying the choreography she¡¯d practiced in her mind, though her heart wasn¡¯t in it.


    Ryan watched her, his expression inscrutable. She felt his eyes on her, every move scrutinized. The humiliation was almost too much to bear, but she pushed through, reminding herself why she was doing this-for her mother, for a chance at a better life.


    ¡°Show me more,¡± he said sternly.


    Iris gave a polite nod, as she began to move her body, this time to the rhythm of the slow song Ryan yed from his Old Record yer With Tonearm And Cover Sound.


    Iris slowly whined her waist as her hips followed, in a seductive way. She saw an office chair in his room, she walked around the chair as she stretched her legs across the chair.


    As she finished, she stood there, breathless and exposed, waiting for his response. Ryan walked over, his gaze intense.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°You did well,¡± he said, his tone surprisingly gentle. ¡°But remember, this is only the beginning. We have an agreement, and I expect you to fulfill your part.¡±


    Iris nodded, her eyes downcast. ¡°I understand.¡±


    ¡°What about my proposal, is it a yes or a problem?¡± he asked, looking at the iris from head to toe.


    ¡°I will do it on one condition,¡± she spoke softly.


    ¡°You are still giving me conditions¡±? Ryan barked, tightening the fist he had made.


    ¡± Let¡¯s hear it,¡± he spoke calmly this time.


    ¡°I will still have ess to the child after the contract is over, I want to still be a part of his life.¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t be a problem, as long as you don¡¯t act smart¡±. He replied.


    Iris gave a polite nod as Ryan¡¯s fingers brushed her cheek, a touch that sent shivers down her spine. ¡°Good. Now, go to bed.


    The following morning, Ryan left for the office early.


    The Kendrick Empire weighed heavily on his mind. He needed to prove himself, not just to his father, but to everyone watching.


    His chauffeur, John, opened the door of the ck GMC Hummer EV SUV as Ryan approached. ¡°Good morning, Mr. Kendrick.¡±


    ¡°Morning, John,¡± Ryan replied, slipping into the backseat. The drive to the office was spent in silent contemtion, his mind switching gears to the tasks ahead.


    As they arrived at The Kendrick Empire, Ryan stepped out, adjusting his suit jacket, and made his way inside. The staff, ustomed to his presence, greeted him with respectful nods and smiles.


    Luca Was waiting for him at the entrance of the executive suite. ¡°Morning, Ryan. Ready for another day?¡±


    ¡°Always,¡± Ryan replied with a determined glint in his eye.


    They entered the elevator, the familiar ding announcing their arrival on the first floor.


    Lucas ced the briefcase on Ryan¡¯s desk and took a seat. ¡°We¡¯ve got a busy day ahead. There are a few contracts that need your immediate attention, and your father wants to discuss the new project proposals.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s get started,¡± Ryan said, taking a seat and opening the briefcase.


    For the next few hours, Ryan immersed himself in the work. Contracts were examined, proposals were carefully considered, and decisions were made with a keen eye for detail. The morning flew by in a blur of paperwork and meetings, his mind used on the empire he was set to inherit.


    Around noon, Luca Knocked on the door, interrupting Ryan¡¯s concentration. ¡°Ryan, it¡¯s lunchtime. Also, Emily¡¯s waiting outside. Shall I send her in?¡±


    Ryan¡¯s lips curled into a smile. ¡°Yes, send her in.¡±


    Emily walked in, her demeanor professional yet slightly anxious. ¡°You wanted to see me, Mr. Kendrick?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Emily. Please, have a seat,¡± Ryan said, gesturing to the chair across from his desk. ¡°I wanted to get to know you better, see what you¡¯re all about.¡±


    They chatted for a while, discussing her background, her ambitions, and her ns for her role at The Kendrick Empire. Ryan found himself genuinely intrigued by her intelligence and drive. But beneath the surface, his thoughts were anything but professional.


    ¡°Emily, there¡¯s something else I would like to show you,¡± Ryan said, standing up. ¡°Follow me¡­..¡±

 Chapter 13

    He led her to the private resting room.


    Closing the door behind them. The room was  designed for privacy andfort, with soft lightning and a modern aesthetic.


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick, what is this about, what is going on?¡± Emily asked, her voice a mix of curiosity and caution.


    Ryan stepped closer, his eyes locked onto hers. ¡°Call me Ryan. And I think you know exactly what this is about.¡±


    Before she could respond, he pulled her into a kiss. Emily¡¯s initial resistance melted away as the kiss deepened.


    Ryan¡¯s hands moved over her body, his touch lighting a fire within her. She responded eagerly, her hands sliding under his shirt, feeling the warmth of his bare chest and skin.


    They moved towards the bed, ripping their clothes off in a frenzy of passion. Ryan¡¯s mind was a blur of desire, the stresses of the morning forgotten in the heat of the moment. Heid Emily down on the bed, his lips and hands exploring every inch of her body. Her moans filled the room, a symphony of pleasure that drove him wild.


    He took out his rod from his suit pants, Emily flinched at the sight of his rod.


    ¡°OMG,¡± she gasped, ¡°you like what you see?¡± Ryan chuckled.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you haven¡¯t seen or tasted anything like it before,¡± he spoke proudly.


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to have a taste of it¡±, she said in a low voice biting her lips seductively.


    He slid his cock deep into her, as he thrust into her like his life depended on it, Ryan was a NO 5 minutes man, he always takes his time him fucking any woman he couldy his hands on.


    He almost hammered life out of Emily, as she begged for more,  moaning and screaming in pleasure and pain.


    It sounded like music to his ears, he loved how they screamed and begged.


    Ryan¡¯s touch was both demanding and skillful, his experience evident in every movement. He took his time, savoring the control he had over her reactions. Emily¡¯s body responded to his every touch, arching and trembling with pleasure.


    As theyy together afterward, the room filled with the scent of their encounter, Ryan¡¯s mind wandered back to Iris.


    He nced at Emily, who was catching her breath beside him. ¡°You were amazing,¡± he said, a satisfied smile on his lips.


    Emily blushed, her eyes shining. ¡°Thank you, Mr Kendrick. I hope I can impress you in the office as well.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you already have,¡± Ryan replied, his tone yful. ¡°But let¡¯s keep this between us, shall we?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Emily agreed, nodding.


    Ryan dressed quickly, his mind already shifting back to the day¡¯s work. He had contracts to review and a meeting with his father in the afternoon. Emily left the room, straightening her clothes andposing herself before stepping back into the office.


    Luca was waiting outside, a knowing look on his face. ¡°Everything went smooth?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Better than expected,¡± Ryan replied with a smirk. ¡°Now, let¡¯s get back to work. I have a meeting with my father soon right¡±?


    ¡°Not soon Sir, in twenty minutes time¡±. Luca replied.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s get ready¡±. He said as they both walked out of the office.


    Monthster*****************


    The first few weeks of Ryan and Iris¡¯s married life were a rough storm, a sh of wills and emotions that she never sawing.


    For Iris, the grand mansion felt more like a gilded cage, the luxury disyed doing little to mask the reality of her situation. Every day began with the continues routine of pretense, a farce that chipped away at her spirit.


    Iris had hoped that, despite the contract, she might find some sce or understanding in her new life. But the constant coldness from Ryan was unbearable. He was a handsome man, with a chiseled jaw and piercing blue eyes broad chest, but his heart seemed wrapped in ice.


    Each morning, he would leave the house to the office without a word, returningte at night, often reeking of alcohol and female perfume.


    One morning, Iris found herself staring at the wardrobes filled with designer clothes. She had always dreamed of having such luxuries, but now they felt like cages.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Dressing in these outfits was like dressing in a costume for a role she despised. With a sigh, she picked a simple blue dress and descended downstairs.


    As she entered the dining room, she was greeted by Mrs. Rose and Ivy, both of whom looked at her with thinly veiled disdain.


    Mrs. Rose, Ryan¡¯s mother, was a tall woman with perfectly coiffed hair and an air of superiority that made Iris¡¯s skin crawl.


    Ivy, on the other hand, was a delicate beauty with a fondness for passive-aggressivements that stung like a thousand needles.


    ¡°Good morning, Iris,¡± Mrs. Rose said, her voice dripping with insincerity. ¡°I see you¡¯ve chosen a dress that finally fits you. It¡¯s a wonder you didn¡¯t rip any of the seams.¡±Iris forced a smile.


    ¡°Good morning, Mrs. Rose. Ivy.¡±


    Ivy smirked. ¡°Don¡¯t let it get to you, Iris. It¡¯s just that we had someone else in mind for Ryan, someone who would have fit in better with our¡­standards and ss.¡±


    Iris clenched her fists under the table, trying to maintain herposure. ¡°I¡¯m sure I¡¯ll adapt.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sure you will,¡± Mrs. Rose said with a patronizing smile. ¡°Or not.¡±


    Ryan walked in at that moment, his presence immediatelymanding the room. He was dressed admirably in an army green tailored suit, but his eyes were hard as they nced at Iris.


    ¡°I see everyone¡¯s here,¡± he said, taking his seat at the head of the table. ¡°Let¡¯s eat.¡±They ate breakfast silently, only the sound of clinking cutlery could be heard.


    Iris could feel the weight of their gazes on her, judging, measuring, finding her wanting. She picked at her food, her appetite no where to be found. After breakfast, Ryan stood up abruptly. ¡°Iris, I need to talk to you.¡±


    She followed him into his study, a room filled with dark wood and leather, exuding power and wealth.


    Ryan closed the door behind them and turned to face her.¡±What do you want to talk about?¡± Iris asked, her voice barely above a whisper.


    Ryan sighed, running a hand through his hair. ¡°This¡­arrangement we have. It¡¯s not working.¡±

 Chapter 14

    Iris¡¯s heart sank. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I mean, you need to y your part better,¡± Ryan said, his tone harsh.


    ¡°My father is watching us closely, and you¡¯re not convincing anyone that this marriage is real.


    ¡°Iris felt a surge of anger. ¡°How can I, when you treat me like a piece of shit. You barely acknowledge me, and even when you do, it¡¯s to mock ans make fun of me.


    ¡°Ryan stepped closer, his eyes narrowing. ¡°You knew what you were getting into, Iris. This is a just contract, and nothing more, stop getting things into your head.


    ¡°You y your part, and I¡¯ll y mine.¡±Iris took a deep breath, trying to calm her emotions. ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll do better. But you need to do better too.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s lips curled into a mocking smile. ¡°don¡¯t worry about Iris. I¡¯ll make sure we¡¯re convincing. ¡°Starting from tonight, you¡¯ll join me at the Kendrick Foundation G. You¡¯ll smile, you¡¯llugh, and you¡¯ll be the perfect wife in the eyes of everyone.


    Understood?¡±Iris nodded, feeling defeated. ¡°Understood.¡±


    The day of the g arrived, and Iris felt like she was preparing for battle. She wore a stunning red gown, her hair styled in loose waves. As she looked at herself in the mirror, she could barely recognized the woman staring back. She looked like she belonged in this real world, but it was all a facade.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Ryan was waiting for her downstairs, looking every bit the perfect gentleman in his wine tuxedo. He offered her his arm, and they walked to the car in silence.


    The ride to the g was equally quiet, each lost in their thoughts. The g was held at a grand hotel, the ballroom filled with Houston¡¯s elite.


    As they entered, all eyes were on them. Ryan¡¯s grip on her arm tightened, a silent reminder to y her part.¡±Smile,¡± he whispered through gritted teeth.


    Iris forced a smile, greeting the guests with a warmth she didn¡¯t feel, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries. It was exhausting, and Iris felt like a puppet, her strings pulled by Ryan¡¯s every move.


    During the dinner, they were seated with several of Ryan¡¯s business associates. The conversation was dull, centered around investments and mergers. Iris tried to keep up, but her mind kept drifting to the life she had left behind, the dreams she had abandoned.


    At one point, she excused herself and went to thedies¡¯ room. She leaned against the sink, taking deep breaths to steady herself. Her reflection looked tired, the spark in her eyes dimmed.


    ¡°Get it together, Iris,¡± she whispered to herself. ¡°You can do this.¡±As she returned to the ballroom, she noticed Ryan talking to a stunning blonde woman.


    Her heart clenched as she watched themugh together, their familiarity a stark contrast to the cold distance between her and Ryan. Jealousy and frustration bubbled up inside her, but she pushed it down.


    She had to stay focused, had to keep up the act. She approached them, putting on her best smile.¡±Hello,¡± she said, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside.


    Be turned, her smile not reaching her eyes. ¡°Hi you must be Iris. You look¡­lovely.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Iris replied, feeling the sting of her condescension.


    Ryan ced a hand on the small of Iris¡¯s back, a gesture that looked affectionate but felt like a warning.


    ¡°Ryan honey, I will see you around,¡±she said slightly nting a soft kiss on his cheeks before leaving, rolling her eyes at iris obviously pissed.


    Ryan nod his head as he raised his ss at her.


    Iris irritated with what just happened clinched her fist, as she maintained herposure.


    ¡°Iris, why don¡¯t you tell our top investors Mr Mark about the new project we¡¯re working on?¡±Iris blinked, caught off guard. ¡°Uh, yes. We¡¯re nning to expand the foundation¡¯s outreach programs, focusing on education and healthcare for underprivilegedmunities.


    The investor a brief man with bare hair neatly dressed in a ck tuxedo raised an eyebrow, nodding his head clearly interested.


    ¡°I would really love to be a part of this¡± Mr Mark replied cheerfully.


    Iris forced another smile, this time trying to be happy.


    Mrs Rose appeared in a Soft blush pink floor-length gown with a fitted bodice and a flowing A-line skirt. A luxuriousbination of silk chiffon and tulle.


    The dress features sophisticatedce embroidery and delicate beadwork that went down the skirt. The bodice has a deep V-neckline and cap sleeves, adding a touch of elegance.


    While ivy the fashionista was dressed in a striking elegant silver mermaid silhouette gown that hugs her  body and res out at the knees. The dress is adorned with shimmering sequins and crystals, creating a mesmerizing sparkle under the lights. It features an illusion neckline and long sleeves with sophisticated detailing, perfect for making a statement.


    ¡°Ivy honey, look  how pathetic Iris looks, she¡¯s trying so hard to fit in which is obviously impossible¡±. Mrs Rose spoke, sipping from her wine ss.


    With a mischievous grin, ivy replied ¡°I don¡¯t know why Ryan willpare how ssless she is to Be, she¡¯s way way below our standards mom, I just can¡¯t stand her¡± ivy said feeling irritated.


    The rest of the evening passed in a blur, the weight of her situation pressing down on her. By the time they returned home, she was emotionally and physically exhausted.


    As they entered the mansion, Ryan turned to her. ¡°You did well tonight.¡±Iris looked at him, searching for any hint of sincerity. ¡°Thank you.¡±Ryan¡¯s expression softened for a brief moment before hardening again.


    ¡°Remember, this is just the beginning. We have a long way to go.¡±Iris nodded, her resolve strengthening. ¡°I know.¡±She said going into her room, and closing the door behind her.


    In sharp contrast to the night¡¯s instability the silence was consoling. She say on the side of he bed, as she thought about the life she had chosen and the sacrifices she had made.


    The road ahead was rming, filled with uncertainty and pain. But Iris knew she had to endure it, had to find a way to survive in this new world she had found herself in.


    She hade too far to turn back now. As shey down, exhaustion finally taking over, she whispered a silent promise to herself, ¡°you can do this Iris, you are strong, bold and resilient and you can do anything¡±.


    She would y her part, but she wouldn¡¯t lose herself in the process. She would find a way to make this life her own, no matter the cost.

 Chapter 15

    Iris woke up with a heavy heart. She couldn¡¯t forget the image of the previous night at the g from her mind. Be, Ryan¡¯s ex-fiancee, so she was told, had been there, her behavior more than inappropriate.


    She had clung to Ryan, touching him with a familiarity that stung Iris deeply. Iris didn¡¯t understand why it bothered her so much after all, her marriage to Ryan was one on condition, not love.


    Still, the sight of Be¡¯s hand lingering on Ryan¡¯s arm, the way she whispered in his ear, and the smirk she had sent Iris¡¯s way made her feel something she hadn¡¯t expected: jealousy.


    Sitting alone at the long dining table, Iris pushed her food around her te. The mansion felt so empty, the silence was heavy and choking. Sarah, the head housekeeper, and her maid noticed her distress and approached.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, is everything all right?¡± Sarah asked concern etched on her face. Iris managed a weak smile. ¡°I¡¯m just feeling a bit¡­ restless, Sarah. I think I need to get out for a bit.¡±Sarah nodded understandingly.


    ¡°Of course, ma¡¯am. Would you like me to arrange the car for you?¡±Iris shook her head. ¡°No, I¡¯ll take a cab.


    I¡¯ll be back before Ryan gets home.¡±Sarah looked slightly worried but didn¡¯t press the matter. ¡°Just let me know if you need anything, ma¡¯am.¡± After breakfast, Iris dressed casually in jeans and a simple top.


    She didn¡¯t want to raise any suspicions, especially not with her mother. As she stepped out of the mansion, the cool morning air felt refreshing. She stopped a cab and gave the driver her mother¡¯s address.


    The familiar sights of her old neighborhood brought a sense offort. The modest houses, and the friendly faces, it was a stark contrast to the grandeur and istion of her current life.


    When the cab pulled up in front of her mother¡¯s house, Iris felt a pang of remorse. She knocked on the door, and it was opened by her best friend, Skr, who still lived nearby and often helped out with her mother.


    ¡°Iris! It¡¯s so good to see you!¡± Skr  eximed, pulling her into a tight hug.¡±It¡¯s good to see you too, Skr,¡± Iris replied, smiling genuinely for the first time that day.


    They went inside, where Iris found her mother, Mrs. Jessica, sitting in her favorite armchair.


    Upon seeing her daughter, Mrs. Jessica¡¯s face lit up with joy.¡±Iris, my darling! What a wonderful surprise!¡± she eximed as Iris rushed to hug her.¡±Hi, Mom. I¡¯ve missed you,¡± Iris said, hugging her mother tightly.


    Mrs. Jessica pulled back slightly to look at her daughter. ¡°How¡¯s your new job, dear? It¡¯s been a while since you came to see me. I was starting to worry.¡±Iris bit her lip, feeling a pang of guilt.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mom. Work has been really demanding. I¡¯ve barely had any time to myself.¡±Mrs. Jessica shook her head gently. ¡°I understand, but Iris, instead of all the money you¡¯ve been sending, I¡¯d still prefer to see my daughter. You¡¯re more important to me than money.


    ¡°Iris frowned, confused. ¡°Money? Mom, I have¡­..¡±. Mrs. Rose looked at her with a mix of frustration and concern. ¡°Why are you acting like you didn¡¯t send anyone? Or are you trying to pretend? I know it came from you, you promised to take care of me, and since your new Job you have darling ¡°Iris shook her head, genuinely bewildered.


    ¡°Mom, I¡­. ¡°Mrs. Jessica sighed, cutting her short. ¡°All I¡¯m trying to say is that you can¡¯t bribe me with money. I want to see you more often, my child.¡±Iris was surprised by her mother¡¯s words.


    Who could have sent money in her name? And why? She decided to push the thought aside for now. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mom. I¡¯ll make sure to visit more often.¡±


    They spent the afternoon cooking and chatting. The simple domesticity of it all was soothing to Iris¡¯s almost weak nerves. They talked about everything just enjoying each other¡¯spany.


    After a while, Mrs. Rose dozed off in her chair. Iris watched her mother¡¯s peaceful face, noticing the signs of aging she hadn¡¯t seen before. She leaned down and kissed her on the forehead, then covered her with a nket. Quietly, she closed the door and joined Skr in the kitchen.


    ¡°Thanks for helping out with my mom, Skr. It means a lot to me.¡±Skr smiled. ¡°You know I¡¯m always here for you both. How are things with Ryan?¡±Iris sighed.


    ¡°Complicated, as always. But let¡¯s not talk about that. I¡¯ve had such a good time today.¡±


    Skr grinned and nudged Iris yfully. ¡°Speaking of good times, you won¡¯t believe what¡¯s happened since you left the club.¡±Iris raised an eyebrow, intrigued.


    ¡°Oh, do tell. I¡¯ve missed all the gossip.¡±


    ¡°Well,¡± Skr began, her eyes twinkling with excitement, ¡°you know how lonely I was after you left, right?


    Mama Pee Pee has been as tough as ever, running the club with an iron fist. But she¡¯s also been taking care of us, making sure we¡¯re safe and everything.¡±


    Iris nodded, remembering their formidable yet caring manager. ¡°Mama Peepee is such a kind and tough woman.¡±


    Skr continued, ¡°Anyway, a few weeks ago, this incredibly hot guy came into the club. Tall, dark, and handsome, just my type.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    After my shift, he asked if he could take me home. I was hesitant at first, but there was something about him that seemed genuine.¡±


    Iris leaned forward, eager to hear more.¡±And?¡±


    ¡°And,¡± Skr said with a dramatic pause, ¡°he didn¡¯t just take me home. He took me out on a date the next night. A real date, Iris. Dinner, a movie, the whole nine yards.


    And guess what? We¡¯re officially in a rtionship now!¡±Iris¡¯s eyes widened with excitement.


    ¡°Jenny, that¡¯s amazing! I¡¯m so happy for you!¡± She hugged her friend tightly, feeling a genuine happiness she hadn¡¯t felt in a long time. Skr beamed.


    ¡°I know, right? He¡¯s been so sweet and caring. It¡¯s been a whirlwind romance, but I¡¯m loving every minute of it. And you know what? I¡¯ve been happier than I¡¯ve been in a long time.¡±Iris smiled, her heart swelling with joy for her friend.


    ¡°You deserve it, Jenny. After everything you¡¯ve been through, you deserve all the happiness in the world.¡± Iris felt a warmth she had missed, thepanionship of a true friend.


    They continued chatting, losing track of time until Iris nced at the clock and realized howte it had gotten.


    Panic set in. ¡°Ryan is going to kill me if I¡¯m not back before him,¡± she said, grabbing her things.


    She hugged her mother and Skr goodbye, promising to visit again soon. As she hurried to the street, she called down another cab, hoping to make it back before Ryan noticed her absence.


    The cab crawled through the evening traffic, moving frustratingly slowly. Iris nced nervously at her watch, willing the driver to go faster.


    Eventually, she couldn¡¯t take it anymore.¡±I¡¯ll get out here,¡± she said, paying the driver and stepping out. As she was about to alight, the driver suddenly sped off, causing her to stumble back into the seat.


    Iris¡¯s heart raced as she tried to understand what was happening. ¡°What are you doing? Let me out!¡± she screamed, pounding on the windows, but the driver ignored her.


    The windows were tinted, and no one outside could see her distress. Fear wed at her as she realized the danger she was in. ¡°Oh God, I¡¯m dead,¡± she whispered to herself, tears streaming down her face.

 Chapter 16

    Hours passed, or at least it felt that way to Iris, as the cab sped through unfamiliar streets. Finally, the car slowed and pulled into a hidden area. The driver got out, and another man opened her door, dragging her out roughly.


    ¡°Please, let me go,¡± Iris begged, struggling against his grip. The manughed. ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere.¡±They dragged her into an abandoned house, where a few other men were waiting. Iris¡¯s mind raced, thinking of what to do.


    She needed to stay calm, to find a way out of this nightmare.¡±Why are you doing this?, what have I done? If it¡¯s money you want I can call my husband to give you the money you want but please don¡¯t kill me¡± she pleaded sobbing softly, trying to keep her voice steady. One of the men stepped forward, a cruel smile on his face.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got some powerful enemies,dy. Just sit tight. Someone will be here to deal with you soon.¡±Iris¡¯s heart sank. ¡°Powerful enemies? But I haven¡¯t wronged anyone,¡± This had to be connected to Ryan somehow, but she couldn¡¯t understand why. She needed to find a way to escape before whoever would ¡°deal¡± with her arrived.


    Back at the mansion, Ryan returned home to find Iris missing. He called her phone, but there was no answer.


    Panic set in, ¡°Could she have run away?¡± He thought, shaking the thought of his head. ¡°No, she wouldn¡¯t dare do such.¡±  He immediately called Sarah.


    ¡°Sarah, where is Iris?¡± he demanded. Sarah looked worried. ¡°She said she was going out for a bit and would be back before you. She didn¡¯t take a car, just a cab.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s mind raced. He knew something was wrong. He made a few calls, mobilizing his contacts to find her at her mother¡¯s house and the club. Hours passed with no word, and his fear and anger grew.


    Iris searched the abandoned house with her eyes for anything that would help her escape, her heart thumping in her chest the whole time. Her gaze settled on a loose piece of metal lying on the floor.


    Just as she grabbed it, one of the men noticed. ¡°Hey, what do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± he snarled, diving at her.


    Iris swung the metal piece, hitting him across the face. He staggered back, giving her a moment to run.


    Spotting a small, dirty window high on the wall, she took a deep breath, gathering all her courage. She quietly moved towards the window, trying not to draw any attention from the second man.


    The piece of metal she had grabbed earlier was still clutched in her hand. Using it, she pried open the rustedtch. The window was small, but she was determined. She squeezed through, her heart racing as she closed her mouth and screamed within with each scrape and cut the rough edges inflicted on her skin.


    She hit the ground and ran, not daring to look back as she went through the empty alleyways. As soon as the men realized she was out, she heard them screaming.


    Panic fueled her steps, but she knew she had to keep running. As she reached a major road, Iris saw the headlights of an approaching vehicle, desperation took over.


    She waved her arms furiously, praying the driver would stop. The car slowed down, and she wasted no time in pulling open the passenger door and diving in.


    ¡°Drive! Please, just drive!¡± she screamed at the startled driver.


    The driver, a young man with a look of confusion, hesitated only for a moment before pressing his foot on the elerator.


    The car sped off, and Iris nced back to see her kidnappers¡¯ vehicle pulling onto the road in pursuit.¡±What¡¯s going on?¡± the driver asked, panic edging his voice as he pushed the car to its limits.¡±


    Please, just drive faster. They¡¯re after me,¡± Iris panted, fear visible in her voice. The driver, sensing the gravity of the situation, nodded and focused on the road ahead. He weaved through traffic, pushing the car to its limits.


    Iris gripped her seat tightly, hoping they would be able to outrun their pursuers. The gap between them and the kidnappers widened gradually but steadily.


    Iris saw the headlights of the pursuing car fade into the distance. Relief washed over her, but her body trembled with residual fear. She directed the driver to an area near her mansion, not wanting to lead any potential danger directly to her doorstep.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± she said, her voice shaking. ¡°You saved my life.¡±The driver nodded, still processing the events. ¡°Take care of yourself.¡±Iris stepped out of the car and hurried down the street, finally reaching the familiar gates of her home.


    She let herself in quietly, hoping not to cause a scene. But as soon as she entered, she was met with the worried faces of Sarah and the other staff. Ryan was the first to rush to her, his expression a mix of anger and relief.¡±Iris!¡± he eximed, pulling her into a tight hug.


    As they held onto one other, it appeared as though time had stopped. Iris felt safe for the first time as Ryan gave her a firm embrace. Ryan drew back a little after what seemed like a lifetime, looking into her eyes.


    ¡°What happened to you? Where did you go? Where have you been all day? Why is your phone dead?¡± His voice grew louder with each question, frustration and fear evident. ¡°Did you go back to stripping again?¡±


    Iris, exhausted and overwhelmed, could only shake her head. She slipped onto the sofa, her eyes slowly shutting as the adrenaline wore off. Ryan noticed the blood on her hand and dress, he quickly called for water and a first aid kit. He carried her gently to his room, cing her on the bed. Sarah brought the first aid supplies, and Ryan began cleaning and dressing Iris¡¯s wound.


    He worked with surprising tenderness, his earlier anger reced by concern. When Sarah returned with a ss of water, Ryan helped Iris drink it. He covered her with a nket and watched her until she fell into a fitful sleep.


    He stayed by her side, his mind racing with questions and worry


    First thing in the morning, Ryan called the family doctor. The doctor arrived promptly, carrying his medical bag. He examined Iris thoroughly, running a few tests and checking her vitals.


    ¡°She¡¯s been through a lot,¡± the doctor said, his tone serious. ¡°What happened?¡±Ryan sighed, running a hand through his hair. ¡°I don¡¯t know. She went out and came back looking distressed and with bruises.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    She hasn¡¯t told me what happened yet.¡±The doctor nodded, prescribing some medication. ¡°Let her rest. She¡¯ll be fine, but she needs time to recover.¡±


    Ryan thanked the doctor and saw him out. He didn¡¯t go to the office that day, choosing instead to stay home and keep an eye on Iris. He watched her sleep, his heart aching with worry and a growing sense of protectiveness.


    Later in the day, Iris stirred, caught in the grip of a nightmare. ¡°Please don¡¯t kill me, please somebody help me! Please¡­¡± she cried out, her voice filled with terror¡­..

 Chapter 17

    She woke up startled, her eyes wide with fear. It took her a moment to realize where she was.


    When she saw Ryan, her panic slowly reducd.¡±I had a nightmare,¡± she whispered, tears welling up in her eyes.


    Ryan nodded, sitting on the edge of the bed. ¡°I know. You¡¯re safe now, Iris. No one can hurt you here.


    With a look of helplessness on her face, she looked up at him. ¡°Thank you, Ryan.¡±Gently, he extended his hand and held hers. ¡°Iris, you don¡¯t have to thank me.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°They sat in silence for a moment, the gravity of the situation sinking in. Ryan knew he had to find out who was behind the kidnapping and why they had targeted Iris.


    But for now, her safety and wellbeing came first for him. He tucked the nket about her and said softly, ¡°Try to get some more rest.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll be right here if you need anything.¡±Iris nodded, tiredness already beginning to weigh heavily in her eyes.


    As she drifted back to sleep, Ryan watched over her, his mind racing with ns to ensure this never happened again.


    Iris gradually recovered over the next few days, and while she slept, Ryan was by her side, providingfort and keeping his mind racing with worries and resolve.


    He needed to ensure her safety, but he also needed answers.¡±Iris,¡± Ryan said softly as she began to stir. ¡°Can you tell me what happened?¡±She opened her eyes, the trauma still evident in her gaze.


    ¡°I was¡­ I was kidnapped. They took me to some warehouse. I managed to escape while they were busy talking, but it was terrifying, Ryan.


    ¡°Ryan clenched his fists, anger ring within him. ¡°Who were they? Did they say anything about why they took you?¡±Iris shook her head.


    ¡°No, they didn¡¯t say much. They were waiting for someone. I heard them talking on the phone, but I don¡¯t know who it was.


    ¡°I was so scared, Ryan. I thought I was going to die.¡±


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s jaw tightened. ¡°We¡¯ll find out Iris, I won¡¯t let this happen again.¡±Tears welled up in Iris¡¯s eyes as she looked at him. ¡°Thank you, Ryan. ¡°He pulled her into a gentle embrace, feeling her body tremble against his.


    ¡°You¡¯re safe now. .


    We¡¯ll figure out who did this and why.¡±Iris nodded, findingfort in his words. Despite theirplicated rtionship, she realized that Ryan genuinely cared for her or was it just care at the moment? She thought within herself.


    And for the first time, she allowed herself to hope that maybe, just maybe, their marriage could be more than just a convenience.


    Iris¡¯s kidnappers, a group of criminals, were nervously waiting in a dark hideout for a call from their leader, a muscr man with a scar down his face.


    At the ringing of their phone, nervously and excitedly.¡±It¡¯s him,¡± he muttered, gesturing for silence as he answered. ¡°We¡¯ve got her Boss. She¡¯s at the location.


    ¡°A sinister voice crackled through the phone, sending shivers down the spines of those present. ¡°Excellent. I¡¯ll be there shortly.


    Make sure she¡¯s secure.¡±The call ended, leaving an eerie silence in its wake. The men exchanged uneasy nces, the weight of their task pressing down on them.


    Meanwhile, the unknown caller, their boss, smirked as he ended the call. His n wasing together perfectly.


    Soon, he would have what he wanted. He strode towards his car, ready to finish the job.


    Back at the hideout, the minutes dragged on. Iris¡¯s kidnappers grew restless, They called their boss and in one ring he picked up, the leader spoke, his voice shaking slightly.


    ¡°She¡¯s escaped!¡± one of the kidnappers blurted out, panic evident in his voice. ¡°We¡¯re after her now, but she¡¯s fast. We won¡¯t let her get away.¡±


    The unknown caller¡¯s demeanor shifted instantly, his voice a cold, dangerous whisper. ¡°If you let her escape, it will be yourst mistake. Do not fail me.¡±


    Fear gripped the kidnappers as they realized the severity of their situation. The call ended, and they immediately redoubled their efforts.


    The kidnappers felt fear when they learned how serious what they have was. When the call finished, they immediately redoubled their efforts.


    The unknown caller arrived at the hideout momentster, his face a mask of fury. He stormed into the building, his eyes scanning the room for any sign of Iris.


    ¡°Where is she?¡± he demanded, his voice low and menacing. The leader of the kidnappers stepped forward, trembling. ¡°She got away, but we¡­.¡±


    A gunshot echoed through the room, cutting him off. The leader fell to the ground, a pool of blood spreading beneath him.


    The other men flinched away in terror, their fright obvious. The unknown caller kept his expression fixed while holding his gun.


    ¡°Clean this mess up,¡± he ordered coldly. ¡°And remember, next time I send you for a job, it had better be done right. I show no mercy for ipetence.¡±


    The remaining kidnappers scrambled to obey, terrified of facing the same fate as their fallen leader. The unknown caller turned on his heel and left, his mind already churning with ns to rectify this setback.


    The unknown caller sat in a dark, foreboding ce that reflected his personality. He was on the phone again, barking orders to his subordinates.¡±Iris escaped, but I want her found but let¡¯s take a break, I will tell you when to strike.¡±


    ¡°No mistakes this time. Do you understand?¡± he growled.¡±Yes, sir. Understood,¡± came the reply from the other end.¡±Good. And make sure to cover your tracks. I don¡¯t want any loose ends,¡± he added before hanging up.


    He leaned back in his chair, contemting his next move. Iris¡¯s escape was a minor setback, but he was determined to get what he wanted. Failure was not an option.


    Ryan, who has been sleeping in Iris¡¯ room this whole time, was at Iris¡¯s side when the family doctor arrived. Dr. Parker, a tall, kind-eyed man, examined Iris thoroughly.


    He took her vitals, checked her injuries, and made sure she was stable.¡±She¡¯s been through quite an ordeal,¡± Dr. Parker said, looking at Ryan.


    ¡°Physically, she¡¯ll recover, but she needs rest and emotional support.¡±Ryan nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure she gets it. Thank you, Doctor.¡±As the doctor left, Ryan turned back to Iris, who was resting quietly.


    He sat down beside her, taking her hand in his.¡±Iris, I know you¡¯re tired, but if you can remember anything else about what happened, it could help us,¡± he said gently. She nodded slowly. ¡°There was one thing¡­.

 Chapter 18

    When I escaped, I heard them mention someone. They were afraid of him. I think he¡¯s the one behind all of this.¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Did they say his name?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Iris replied, shaking her head. ¡°But they were terrified. Whoever he is, he¡¯s dangerous.¡±Ryan¡¯s resolve hardened. ¡°Then we¡¯ll find him. And we¡¯ll make sure he can¡¯t hurt you or anyone else again.¡±


    The unknown caller was on the phone again, his voice cold and calcting. ¡°I want surveince on the Kendrick Mansion.


    Find out everything about Iris¡¯s movements. We can¡¯t afford another mistake.¡±¡±Yes, sir,¡± came the prompt reply.


    He hung up the phone and leaned back, his brain working on a new strategy already. He had underestimated Iris¡¯s determination, but he was not going to let that stop him.


    Not when he was so close to achieving his goal.¡±Enjoy your safety while itsts, Iris,¡± he murmured to himself, a sinister smile curling his lips. ¡°Because it won¡¯tst long.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s assistant, Luca, was already waiting in his study room when he arrived. Luca had been briefed on the situation and had spent the night gathering information.


    ¡°Ryan,¡± Luca greeted, concern evident in his eyes. ¡°How is Iris?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s resting,¡± Ryan replied, his voice tight with worry. ¡°We need to find out who¡¯s behind this.


    Any leads?¡±Luca nodded, spreading out a few documents on the desk. ¡°I did some digging. There¡¯s been some unusual activity in our security logs.


    I think someone¡¯s been watching the house.¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Any idea who?¡±¡±No solid leads yet, but I have a few names. I¡¯ll keep digging,¡± Luca assured him. ¡°In the meantime, I¡¯ve tightened up security around the mansion.


    No one gets in or out without us knowing.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Ryan said, his tone resolute. ¡°Iris needs to be safe. And we need to be prepared for anything.¡±Iris¡¯s RoomIris woke up, her body aching but her mind clear.


    She felt a surge of determination. She couldn¡¯t just sit around and wait for the next attack. She needed to be proactive.¡±Ryan?¡± she called softly, knowing he wouldn¡¯t be far.


    He appeared almost immediately, a look of relief washing over his face. ¡°Iris, you¡¯re awake. How are you feeling?¡±¡±Sore, but I¡¯m okay,¡± she replied, managing a small smile. ¡°We need to talk, Ryan.


    We need to figure out who¡¯s doing this and why.¡±Ryan nodded, sitting down beside her. ¡°I know. Luca is already working on it. But I need you to focus on recovering.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t just sit here,¡± Iris insisted. ¡°There has to be something I can do to help.¡±Ryan sighed, recognizing the determination in her eyes.


    ¡°Alright.


    The unknown caller paced around his room.


    The failure of his men to keep Iris infuriated him. He picked up his phone and dialed a number.¡±What¡¯s the status?¡± he demanded as soon as the call connected.¡±We lost her,¡± the voice on the other end stammered.


    ¡°But we¡¯re still looking. We¡¯ll find her, sir.¡±¡±You¡¯d better,¡± he snarled. ¡°I don¡¯t tolerate failure. Remember what happened to your friend?¡±¡±Yes, sir. We¡¯ll find her,¡± the voice replied, trembling.¡±Good. And this time, don¡¯t let her escape.


    You won¡¯t get another chance,¡± he said before hanging up. He leaned back in his chair, his mind racing.


    Iris had proven to be a more strong opponent than he had anticipated. But he wasn¡¯t worried. He had resources and he had time. She wouldn¡¯t escape him again.


    Over breakfast, Ryan and Iris discussed their next steps.¡±I think we need to bring in outside help,¡± Iris suggested.


    ¡°Someone who can dig deeper and find out who¡¯s behind this.¡±Ryan nodded thoughtfully. ¡°I¡¯ve already reached out to a private investigator I trust. He¡¯ll be hereter today.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Iris said, feeling a sense of relief. ¡°We also need to make sure the staff knows what¡¯s going on. They need to be on alert.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it,¡± Ryan promised.


    ¡°And Iris, I want you to stay close. Don¡¯t go anywhere alone.¡±¡±I understand,¡± she agreed. ¡°We¡¯re in this together.¡±


    Later That Day


    The private investigator, a grizzled man named Jack, arrived at the mansion.


    He had a reputation for being thorough and relentless, which was exactly what Ryan and Iris needed.


    ¡°Jack,¡± Ryan greeted him. ¡°Thank you foring on such short notice.¡±¡±No problem,¡± Jack replied, his eyes scanning the room.


    ¡°I understand you¡¯ve got a serious situation on your hands.¡±¡±Yes,¡± Ryan said, leading him to a private room where they could talk. ¡°Iris was kidnapped, and we need to find out who¡¯s behind it and why.¡±Jack nodded, pulling out a notepad.


    ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s start with everything you know so far.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Hours Later


    After an extensive debriefing with Jack, Ryan and Iris felt a glimmer of hope. Jack had promised to start his investigation immediately and report back with any findings.


    ¡°I feel better already,¡± Iris admitted as they walked back to her room. ¡°At least we¡¯re doing something.¡±Ryan squeezed her hand reassuringly.


    ¡°We¡¯ll get through this, Iris. Together.¡±As they sat together, a newfound bond of trust and determination began to form between them. They were no longer just partners in a forced marriage, they were allies, united against amon enemy but not for long.


    The unknown Man received another call, this time from a different source.


    ¡°I have some information for you,¡± the voice said. ¡°Ryan has hired a private investigator.¡±The unknown man¡¯s lips curled into a cold smile.


    ¡°Interesting. Keep me informed. And make sure our ns proceed without a hitch.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir,¡± the voice replied before the line went dead. The unknown caller leaned back, contemting his next move. Ryan and Iris might have gotten lucky this time, but their luck wouldn¡¯tst forever.

 Chapter 19

    Weeks Later


    The luxurious boutique was filled in soft, natural light, reflecting off the crystal chandeliers and creating an enchanting radiance.


    Ivy, dressed in an elegant Chanel dress and Louboutin heels, entered with an air of confidence.


    She used shopping as a temporary haven from the stresses of her life. While browsing the newest selection of Louis Vuitton handbags, she noticed a familiar figure next to the changing areas.


    There was a couple of attendants around Be, who was wearing a gorgeous Dior gown, each presenting an item of clothing for her to try on. A beat skipped by Ivy¡¯s heart. She had always respected and admired Be for her impact in the fashion industry as well as her grace and beauty.


    ¡°Be!¡± Ivy called out, waving. Be looked up, her face breaking into a dazzling smile. ¡°Ivy! Darling, it¡¯s so good to see you.¡±They embraced, the kind of embrace that spoke of mutual admiration and shared history.


    Be¡¯s perfume, a blend of jasmine and sandalwood, enveloped them, adding to the boutique¡¯s opulence.¡±It¡¯s been ages,¡± Ivy said, stepping back to admire Be. ¡°You look incredible, as always.¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯re stunning,¡± Be replied, her eyes twinkling. ¡°I was just thinking about you the other day. How have you been?¡±Ivy sighed, a hint of weariness in her voice.


    ¡°Busy, as usual. But enough about me. What brings you here today?¡±


    ¡°Just somest-minute shopping,¡± Be said with a wink. ¡°I have a photoshooting up for Dior, and you know how it is.


    Always something new to wear.¡±Ivy¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°You¡¯re such an inspiration, Be. I¡¯ve always looked up to you. Your style, your grace¡­ it¡¯s all so effortless.¡±Beughed softly, a melodic sound that turned heads.


    ¡°Thank you, Ivy. That means a loting from you. You¡¯re quite the fashion icon yourself. I¡¯ve seen yourtest posts, the brands are really noticing you.¡±Ivy blushed, feeling a warm glow of pride.


    ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to you. If you hadn¡¯t introduced me to those designers, I¡¯d still be struggling to make a name for myself.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense,¡± Be said, waving a perfectly manicured hand. ¡°You have the talent and the look.


    I just helped open a few doors.¡±They continued browsing, their conversation flowing effortlessly. Ivy felt a deep connection with Be, a bond forged through shared experiences and a mutual love for fashion.


    But beneath the surface, Ivy couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that there was more to Be¡¯s interest in her. As they moved to the essories section, Ivy hesitated before asking,


    ¡°Be, can I ask you something?¡±


    ¡°Of course, darling. Anything,¡± Be replied, picking up a delicate diamond ne.¡±What¡¯s your secret? I mean, how do you manage to stay on top in such apetitive industry?¡± Ivy¡¯s voice was filled with genuine curiosity.


    Be paused, considering her answer. ¡°It¡¯s about knowing what you want and not being afraid to go after it. Confidence, Ivy. Confidence is key. And, of course, always staying one step ahead of the trends.¡±Ivy nodded, absorbing the advice.


    ¡°You make it sound so simple.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not always easy,¡± Be admitted, her expression softening. ¡°There are sacrifices and hard decisions. But it¡¯s worth it. When you love something as much as we love fashion, it¡¯s all worth it.¡±


    Their conversation was interrupted by a boutique assistant, who handed Be a ss of champagne. ¡°For you, Ms. Be,¡± she said with a smile.¡±Thank you,¡± Be said graciously, taking the ss.


    She turned to Ivy. ¡°Join me?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely,¡± Ivy said, epting a ss from another assistant. They toasted to their sesses and the exciting future thaty ahead. Ivy felt a surge of gratitude toward Be.


    She was more than a mentor; she was a friend, someone who understood her aspirations and fears. As they sipped their champagne, Be leaned in slightly, her voice lowering to a conspiratorial whisper.


    ¡°Ivy, there¡¯s something I need to tell you.¡±Ivy¡¯s heart quickened. ¡°What is it?¡±Be nced around to ensure they weren¡¯t overheard. ¡°There¡¯s a new opportunitying up, and I think you¡¯d be perfect for it.


    A major campaign for Chanel. They¡¯re looking for fresh faces, and I¡¯ve already put in a good word for you.¡±Ivy¡¯s eyes widened in surprise and excitement.


    ¡°Be, that¡¯s incredible! I don¡¯t know what to say.¡±


    ¡°Just be ready,¡± Be said with a wink. ¡°I have a feeling this is going to be your big break.¡±Ivy hugged Be tightly, overwhelmed with gratitude.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    ¡°Thank you, Be. You have no idea how much this means to me.¡±


    ¡°Anything for you, Ivy,¡± Be said, her smile warm but her eyes holding a hint of something deeper. ¡°We have to stick together in this industry.¡±


    ¡°I was wondering¡­ How¡¯s Ryan doing?¡± Be asks. ¡°We haven¡¯t caught up in a while.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s stomach tightened slightly at the mention of her brother. ¡°He¡¯s fine,¡± she replied. ¡°Busy with work as always.¡±


    I¡¯ve been thinking about him a lottely. We were close once, Be said.


    Ivy hesitated. ¡°Yes, you were. It¡¯s a shame things changed.¡± Ivy took a deep breath, deciding to be honest. ¡°He met Iris and everything changed.¡±


    ¡°Ah, the infamous Iris. Be said.


    Ivy couldn¡¯t help the bitterness in her voice as she replied. ¡°She¡¯s a stripper. I don¡¯t understand what he sees in her. I wish he had chosen someone like you, Be. You¡¯re everything he needs.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s sweet of you to say, Ivy.¡± Be said smiling. But if Ryan is happy, that¡¯s what matters, right?¡±


    I suppose. But I can¡¯t help feeling she¡¯s using him. She¡¯s a gold digger, Be. Ryan deserves better.¡± Ivy replied clearly worried


    ¡°You really think so?¡± Be asked.


    ¡°I know so. It¡¯s just¡­ frustrating,¡±Ivy stated.


    Be nodded thoughtfully ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Ivy. I¡¯m sure everything will work out. Ryan is smart. He¡¯ll see through her eventually.¡±


    ¡°Maybe he just needs some time to see things clearly. Sometimes it takes a while for people to realize the truth.¡±


    ¡°I hope so,¡± Ivy said. ¡°I just wish there was something I could do.¡±


    ¡°Maybe there is,¡± Be said, a hint of intrigue in her voice. ¡°Sometimes, a little nudge in the right direction can make all the difference.¡±Ivy looked at her, curiosity piqued.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Just thinking out loud,¡± Be said with a mysterious smile. ¡°But if you ever need any help, you know where to find me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m always here for you, Ivy. And for Ryan, too.¡± She said, holding her hands.


    ¡°Thanks, Be. It means a lot.¡± She said, giving a little smile.


    As they were wrapping up their shopping, Be¡¯s phone buzzed. She nced at it and frowned slightly. ¡°I have to run, Ivy. But let¡¯s do this again soon, okay?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely,¡± Ivy said, feeling a twinge of disappointment. ¡°Thank you again, Be. For everything.¡±


    ¡°Anytime, darling,¡± Be said, giving Ivy a final hug. ¡°And remember, confidence is key. You¡¯ve got this.¡±With that, Be swept out of the boutique, leaving Ivy feeling inspired and excited.

 Chapter 20

    Ivy couldn¡¯t help but feel admiration for Be as she made her graceful exit. Be had done so much for her.


    Later That Evening Ivy returned home, her arms full of shopping bags and her heart full of hope.


    She couldn¡¯t wait to tell Ryan about the CHANNEL opportunity, but as she walked through the door, she found herself thinking about Be¡¯s words.


    ¡°Confidence was key¡±. As she unpacked her new clothes and essories, Ivy¡¯s mind wandered back to their conversation.


    Be had always been a multifaceted person in her life. A friend, mentor, and puzzle all at once.


    Ivy wondered what drove Be¡¯s actions and if there was more to her interest in Ryan than met the eye.


    Despite her lingering questions, Ivy felt a renewed sense of determination. She would make the most of the opportunities ahead and prove to herself and the world that she belonged in the world of high fashion.


    The next day¡­.


    Ryan was getting ready for work when Ivy decided to bring up the subject of Be. She found him in the kitchen, pouring himself a cup of coffee.


    ¡°Morning, Ryan,¡± Ivy said, trying to sound casual.¡±Morning, Ivy,¡± Ryan replied, ncing at her.


    ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°I ran into Be yesterday,¡± Ivy said, watching his reaction closely. Ryan¡¯s expression softened slightly.


    ¡°Be? How¡¯s she doing?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s great,¡± Ivy said. ¡°We talked about a lot of things. She even asked about you.¡±Ryan looked thoughtful. ¡°She did?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Ivy said, seizing the moment.


    ¡°She mentioned how she misses the old times when you two were close.¡±Ryan sighed. ¡°That was a long time ago, Ivy. Things have changed.¡±


    ¡°Maybe they don¡¯t have to,¡± Ivy suggested gently. ¡°Be¡¯s always cared about you, Ryan. Maybe it¡¯s not toote to reconnect.¡±Ryan shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t know, Ivy. ¡°Things areplicated.¡±


    ¡°Because of Iris?¡± Ivy asked, her tone more pointed.


    Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly. ¡°Yes, because of Iris. She¡¯s my wife now, Ivy. I¡¯ve made my choice.¡±


    ¡°But what if it¡¯s the wrong choice?¡± Ivy said, frustration creeping into her voice. ¡°Iris isn¡¯t good for you, Ryan.


    You deserve someone better.¡±Ryan¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°Ivy, I appreciate your concern, but this is my life. I need to make my own decisions.¡±Ivy felt a pang of defeat.


    ¡°I just want what¡¯s best for you, Ryan.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ryan said, his tone softening. ¡°But you have to trust me on this.¡±Ivy nodded reluctantly. ¡°Okay.


    Just¡­ think about what I said.¡±Ryan gave her a small smile. ¡°I will.¡±


    Iris, who was about to go into the kitchen to grab a cup of coffee, paused as she heard Ivy and Ryan¡¯s conversation.


    She quickly moved out, immediately she noticed they wereing out of the kitchen.


    When they were out of sight she went upstairs to her room with her mind engrossed.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    She felt a pang of pain, jealous and unworthiness, hearing what ivy said.


    ¡°That must be the samedy at the party the other night, who was shamelessly hovering around, so they used to be an item? But why is Ivy talking about her to Ryan?¡± iris thought within herself.


    ¡°Well I don¡¯t have to let it bother me, it is not a real marriage. I will be gone soon and Ryan can have as many women as he likes,¡± she muttered with a tone of jealousy.


    She got to her room and brought out her phone as she began to work on something she discoveredtely, trying to take off the discussion she had overheard between Ryan and ivy.


    Later that Day


    Be was in her penthouse, sipping from her wine and going through her emails, when her phone rang.


    Seeing Ivy¡¯s name on the screen, she answered immediately.


    ¡°Ivy, darling! How are you?¡± Be said.¡±I¡¯m okay,¡± Ivy said, though her voice was tinged with frustration.


    ¡°I talked to Ryan this morning.¡±¡±Oh?¡± Be said, her interest piqued. ¡°How did it go?¡±


    ¡°Not well,¡± Ivy admitted. ¡°He¡¯s so stubborn, Be. He won¡¯t listen to reason.¡±


    Be sighed sympathetically. ¡°I¡¯m sorry to hear that. But don¡¯t lose hope, Ivy. Sometimes, these things take time.¡±


    ¡°I hope you¡¯re alright,¡± Ivy said. ¡°I just feel so helpless.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not alone,¡± Be said firmly.


    ¡°We¡¯ll figure something out together. In the meantime, focus on your uing audition. You need to be at your best.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Ivy said, feeling a surge of determination. ¡°Thanks, Be. I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do without you.¡±¡±Anytime, darling,¡± Be said. ¡°Now go out there and show them what you¡¯re made of.¡±


    The Following WeekIvy received an email confirming her audition for the CHANNEL campaign.


    She spent the next few days preparing, pouring over her portfolio and practicing her runway walk. Be¡¯s support had given her the boost she needed, and she was determined to make the most of it.


    On the day of the audition, Ivy arrived at the CHANNEL headquarters, feeling a mixture of nerves and excitement.


    The room was filled with aspiring models, each more stunning than thest, but Ivy held onto Be¡¯s words. ¡°Confidence is key.¡± When it was her turn, Ivy walked into the audition room with her head held high.


    The panel of judges, including some of the top names in fashion, watched her every move. She nailed her walk, exuding the confidence and grace that Be had taught her.


    As she left the room, Ivy felt a surge of pride. Regardless of the oue, she knew she had given it her all. And she had Be to thank for that.


    Later That Night, Ivy received a call from Be. ¡°Ivy, darling, how did it go?¡±


    ¡°I think it went well,¡± Ivy said, her voice trembling with excitement.


    ¡°Thank you so much for your support, Be. I couldn¡¯t have done it without you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so proud of you,¡± Be said, her voice warm and genuine. ¡°I knew you could do it. Let¡¯s celebrate soon, okay?¡±


    ¡°Definitely,¡± Ivy agreed. ¡°Thank you again, Be. You¡¯re the best.¡±As she hung up the phone, Ivy felt a deep sense of gratitude and determination.


    With Be¡¯s guidance and her own hard work, she was ready to take on the world of fashion. And nothing could stand in her way.

 Chapter 21

    The Next Week


    Ivy¡¯s CHANNEL audition went spectacrly well, and she received a callback for a second round. ted, she called Be to share the news.


    ¡°Be, guess what?¡± Ivy said, unable to contain her excitement.¡°What is it, Ivy?¡± Be asked, her voice warm and encouraging.¡°I got a callback for the Chanel campaign!¡± Ivy eximed.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s fantastic, Ivy!¡± Be said, genuinely thrilled. ¡°I knew you could do it. I¡¯m so proud of you.¡±


    Thank you, Be,¡± Ivy said, her voice choked with emotion. ¡°I couldn¡¯t have done it without you.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense,¡± Be said. ¡°You did this on your own. I just helped you see your potential.¡±Ivy felt a swell of gratitude. ¡°You¡¯re the best, Be.¡±


    ¡°I try,¡¯ ¡® Be said with augh. ¡°Now go celebrate! You deserve it.¡±As Ivy hung up, she felt so happy and decided to share the news to her family.


    That Evening


    Be sat in her luxurious penthouse, sipping a ss of wine as she thought about her conversation with Ivy.


    She had always been close to the Kendrick family, and her feelings for Ryan had never truly faded, they both attended Bridgeview highschool, her thoughts drifting back to the past. The memories of Bridgeview High School always brought a bittersweet smile to her face. She and Ryan had a history that stretched back to their teenage years, a history that shaped her feelings and ambitions.


    **********shback*******


    It was a crisp autumn morning when Be first set foot in Bridgeview High School. The school building loomedrge and intimidating, a symbol of the next chapter in her life.


    She adjusted her new school uniform nervously, clutching her books tightly to her chest. As she walked through the school entrance, she noticed another student arriving at the same time.


    He was tall, with messy dark hair and an air of confidence that made heads turn, with a defined jaw.


    His uniform neatly ironed,  cutely on him as he walked like a god amongst men.


    His name was Ryan Kendrick, and from that day forward, their lives would be intertwined. Ryan¡¯s arrival didn¡¯t go unnoticed.


    With his striking good looks and natural charm, he quickly became the center of attention. Girls whispered and giggled as he passed, while the boys eyed him with a mix of admiration and envy.


    Be, however, felt an inexplicable pull toward him that went beyond mere attraction. Their parents, as fate would have it, also met that day.


    Both sets of parents had arrived to drop off their children, and a chance conversation led to an instant connection. The Kendricks and the Reeds soon became friends, cementing the bond between Be and Ryan even further.


    In the ssroom, Be found herself seated next to Ryan. She couldn¡¯t believe her luck. From day one, he was friendly and approachable, and they quickly struck up a conversation.


    ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Ryan. What¡¯s your name?¡± He asked, smiling. ¡°I¡¯m Be. Nice to meet you, Ryan.


    ¡°Nice to meet you too, Be.  Looks like we¡¯ll be ssmates for a while.¡±


    ¡°I think so,¡± Be replied, giving a polite nod.


    From that simple exchange, a friendship blossomed. They began to do everything together.


    They sat next to each other in every ss, shared notes, and helped each other with homework. Ryan, who was exceptionally bright, became Be¡¯s academic savior.


    He helped her through difficult times, gave her encouragement when she needed it, and celebrated her aplishments as though they were his own.


    Lunchtime was their favorite part of the day. They would find a quiet spot in the school courtyard and talk about everything under the sun.


    Ryan¡¯s dream was to one day take over the family business, while Be harbored aspirations of bing a model and fashion icon.


    They supported each other¡¯s dreams with unwavering loyalty.


    ¡°Ryan, do you ever get tired of everyone treating you like you¡¯re perfect?¡± Be asked.


    ¡°Sometimes. But I just try to stay focused on what I want to achieve. Besides, having a friend like you makes it easier.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that. You know, you¡¯re always there for me. I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do without you.¡± Be confessed


    ¡°And I¡¯ll always be there for you, Be. That¡¯s what friends are for.¡±


    Despite Ryan¡¯s poprity and the attention he received from many girls, he always made time for Be. She appreciated his kindness and support, but deep down, she wanted more.


    She wanted him to see her as more than just a friend.


    Be¡¯s feelings for Ryan grew stronger with each passing day. She cherished their moments together, but the more she fell for him, the more painful it became to watch him date other girls.


    Ryan was oblivious to her affections, treating her with the same brotherly care he extended to his younger sister, Ivy


    Ivy, who adored Be, often joined them in their activities. She admired Be¡¯s style and looked up to her as a role model.


    Ryan, on the other hand, saw Be and Ivy as sisters, a trio that shared an unbreakable bond.


    ¡°Be, you should totallye over this weekend. We can have a movie night!¡± Ivy said.


    ¡°I¡¯d love that, Ivy. Thanks for inviting me.¡±Be replied.


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯ll be fun. You¡¯re always wee at our ce, Be.¡± Ryan added.


    Be¡¯s heart ached every time Ryan referred to her as his sister. She wanted so much more than that. She wanted to be the girl he looked at with the same admiration and desire he showed towards others.


    But despite her longing, Ryan never seemed to notice her in that way.


    Throughout high school, Be tried to drop hints about her feelings, but Ryan remained blissfully unaware.


    She watched as he dated different girls, each one seemingly perfect for him, yet none of themsted. Be hoped that one day he would realize that she was the one who truly understood him, the one who would always be there.


    ¡°Ryan, have you ever thought about what it would be like if we dated?¡± Be asked with uncertainty clearly in her voice.


    ¡°Us? Dating? That¡¯s funny, Be. You¡¯re like my sister. It would be weird.¡± Ryan replied, chuckling.


    ¡°Yeah, weird¡­ right.¡± Be replied, faking a smile.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Her heart sank every time heughed off her attempts to steer their rtionship into romantic territory. To him, she was a constant, a reliable friend who would always be by his side. But to Be, Ryan was the love of her life, even if he didn¡¯t know it.

 Chapter 22

    After high school, Be pursued her dreams in the fashion industry. She became a sessful model and influencer, working with top designer brands like Chanel, Dior, and Louis Vuitton.


    Despite her busy career, she stayed in touch with Ryan and Ivy, visiting them whenever she could.


    Ryan went on to join the family business, excelling in his role and making his parents proud. He continued to date different women, but none of them seemed to stick.


    Be watched from a distance, her old feelings never fully fading away. ReconnectingYearster, Be found herself back in Ryan¡¯s life more frequently.


    Their parents¡¯ friendship had endured, and family gatherings brought them together often. Each time she saw Ryan, the old spark ignited, but she kept her feelings hidden, respecting his boundaries.


    ¡°Ryan, it¡¯s been great catching up. You haven¡¯t changed a bit.¡± Be said.


    ¡°Neither have you, Be. You¡¯ve always been the best part of these reunions.¡±Be smiled, her heart aching with the familiarity of his words.


    She knew he still saw her as a friend, a sister figure. But being close to him was enough, even if it wasn¡¯t in the way she had always hoped.


    ************End of shback*********


    Ivy, now a grown woman with her ambitions, remained close to both Ryan and Be. She had always admired Be and valued their friendship.


    But she also saw the unspoken tension between Be and Ryan, understanding Be¡¯s lingering feelings.


    ¡°Be, you know Ryan cares about you a lot. Maybe he¡¯s just scared to take that step. Ivy said¡±


    ¡°Maybe. But I¡¯ve made peace with it, Ivy. I just want him to be happy.¡± Be replied


    ¡°You¡¯re amazing, Be. Anyone would be lucky to have you.¡±Be: ¡°Thanks, Ivy. That means a lot.¡±


    Seeing Ivy so concerned about him had only reignited her desire to be a part of their lives.


    The decision was made. She would meet him, catch up, and see if there was any chance for them to reconnect on a deeper level. The years had changed them both, but her feelings for him remained steadfast.


    She picked up her phone and dialed a number she hadn¡¯t called in years. After a few rings, a deep, familiar voice answered.


    ¡°Hello?¡±


    ¡°Ryan, it¡¯s Be.¡±There was a pause. ¡°Be. It¡¯s been a while.¡±


    ¡°Yes, it has,¡± Be said, her heart racing. ¡°I was wondering if we could meet up sometime. Catch up, you know?¡±


    Ryan hesitated. ¡°I¡¯m not sure if that¡¯s a good idea.¡±


    ¡°Please, Ryan,¡± Be said, her voice soft and pleading. ¡°Just for old times¡¯ sake.¡±After a long silence, Ryan sighed. ¡°Okay. When and where?¡±


    Be smiled, feeling a spark of hope. ¡°How about tomorrow evening? I know a great ce we could go.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Ryan said. ¡°I¡¯ll see you then.¡±As she hung up, Be felt a mixture of excitement and apprehension. This was her chance to reconnect with Ryan, to remind him of the bond they once shared.


    But she knew it wouldn¡¯t be easy. Ryan was married now, and she would have to tread carefully.


    But Be had never been one to back down from a challenge. The desire to be with Ryan was stronger than ever.


    With Ivy¡¯s and Kendrick¡¯s support and her determination, she was ready to fight for what she wanted. And what she wanted was Ryan.


    The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Kendrick mansion.


    Tonight, a celebration was in order, hosted by Mrs. Rose Kendrick.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    The asion was meant to be joyous.


    Ryan had returned home early, his demeanor as cold as it had been since Iris recovered from her kidnapping.


    He walked through the front door, his face expressionless, and called for Sarah, the housekeeper.


    Sarah, tell Iris to get ready. We¡¯re going to a family dinner tonight.¡±Sarah nodded and headed upstairs, where Iris was scrolling through Instagram, a knot forming in her stomach as she saw Ivy¡¯stest post.


    Ivy had just passed an audition for CHANNEL, one of the brands Iris had always dreamed of working with.


    It was ironic how Ivy seemed to be living the life Iris had always wanted.


    ¡°Iris, Mr. Kendrick asked me to tell you to prepare for a family dinner tonight.¡±Iris sighed, closing her phone.


    She suspected the dinner was to celebrate Ivy¡¯s sess. She got up and headed to the bathroom to take a bath.


    As she soaked in the warm water, her mind wandered to Ryan. His sudden shift from being sweet and caring to cold and distant was bing unbearable.


    She thought his loving treatment after her kidnapping wouldst, but it had quickly faded away.


    After her bath, Iris carefully chose an elegant dress for the evening.


    She picked a floor-length, midnight blue gown with a subtle shimmer that caught the light beautifully.


    The dress had a fitted bodice with a delicatece ovey and a deep V-neckline that was both sophisticated and alluring.


    She paired it with silver stiletto heels and diamond earrings that sparkled against her dark hair, which she styled in soft waves cascading down her back.


    Her makeup was wless, with a smoky eye and a nude lip, enhancing her natural beauty. Ryan entered his room, took a quick shower, and changed into a tailored ck suit.


    He ran his fingers through his hair, ncing at himself in the mirror. He couldn¡¯t shake the frustration and anger he felt over the unresolved kidnapping.


    As he dressed, he couldn¡¯t help but think about Iris. Despite his cold exterior, he cared for her deeply.


    When Iris finally emerged from her room, Ryan was waiting in the sitting room. He looked up and was momentarily stunned by her appearance.


    She looked breathtaking, and he had to admit to himself that she was truly beautiful. He almost got lost in the sight of her descending the stairs. They left the house in silence, riding in Ryan¡¯s ck G-wagon.


    The drive to the Kendrick mansion was tense, with Ryan stealing asional nces at Iris. He wanted to say something, to bridge the gap that had formed between them, but the words wouldn¡¯te.


    As they arrived at the mansion, Ryan¡¯s chauffeur opened the door for them. They stepped out and were greeted by Mrs. Rose Kendrick.


    She hugged her son and gave him a light kiss on the cheek. Mrs. Rose: ¡°Ryan, my dear, you look so thin. Are you not eating properly?¡±

 Chapter 23

    Ryan managed to give a weak smile, but Mrs. Rose¡¯s attention quickly shifted to Iris.


    Her greeting was cold and awkward, making Iris feel out of ce immediately.


    ¡°Iris, wee.¡±Iris forced a polite smile, feeling the sting of the cold reception.


    She had to keep herposure, not wanting to upset Ryan. The guests mingled in the grand living room, exchanging pleasantries.


    Be was there too, looking stunning as always. She was the epitome of elegance and grace, a true fashion icon. Her presence added to Iris¡¯s difort.


    When everyone was present, they were ushered to the dining room. The table wasden with a variety of appetizers, fruits, delectable main courses, and an array of desserts.


    But Iris had already lost her appetite, the humiliation, and cold treatment from Mrs. Rose and Ivy weighing heavily on her.


    ¡°Oh, look at you, Iris. That dress is nice, though a bit too¡­ ambitious for you, don¡¯t you think?¡±Ivy¡¯s remark wasced with sarcasm, and Be gave a faint smile, her eyes flickering with amusement.


    ¡°Ivy, be kind. Iris is trying her best.¡±Iris forced a smile, biting her tongue. She knew she had to endure this, for Ryan¡¯s sake.


    As the dinner progressed, Mrs. Rose and Ivy took every opportunity to belittle and humiliate Iris.


    They made side remarks about her background, her career, and even her rtionship with Ryan.


    ¡°Ivy, darling, tell us more about your CHANNEL audition. It¡¯s such a prestigious opportunity. We¡¯re all so proud of you. Mrs Rose remarked.


    ¡°Oh, it was incredible, Mother. The directors were so impressed with my portfolio. They said I had the perfect look for their new campaign. Iris said smiling.


    ¡°Iris felt a pang of jealousy but tried to hide it. She picked at her food, trying to appear unaffected.


    ¡°It¡¯s funny, though. I heard that CHANNEL had considered someone else before me. But obviously, they made the right choice in the end.¡± Ivy added¡±


    Mrs. Rose and Ivy exchanged knowing nces, and Be watched with a fake smile.


    ¡°Iris, dear, how¡¯s your¡­ work going?¡±The emphasis on ¡°work¡± was condescending, making it clear that Mrs. Rose didn¡¯t think much of Iris¡¯s career.


    ¡°It¡¯s going well, thank you. Iris replied.


    ¡°Ryan, noticing Iris¡¯s difort and intervened.¡±Mother, can we not make this dinner about putting Iris down? She¡¯s worked very hard and deserves respect.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose looked taken aback, and Ivy rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Oh, Ryan, we¡¯re just having a bit of fun. Iris knows we don¡¯t mean any harm. Ivy said


    ¡°Iris wanted to disappear. The humiliation was bing unbearable. She nced at Ryan, who was upset but trying to keep his cool.


    ¡°Iris, I admire your resilience. It must be tough, dealing with all this.¡±Be¡¯s words were a double-edged sword, sounding supportive but carrying an undertone of superiority.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    The dinner continued, with more jabs and subtle insults directed at Iris. Finally, Mr. Kendrick, who had been silent for most of the evening, had enough.


    Mr. Kendrick: ¡°That¡¯s enough! This is supposed to be a celebration, not an opportunity to belittle someone.


    Sweetheart, Ivy, I expect better from you both.¡±His words hung in the air, creating an awkward silence.


    Mrs. Rose pursed her lips, and Ivy looked embarrassed. Ryan, fed up with the entire situation, stood up.


    ¡°Thank you, Father. I think it¡¯s time we leave. Iris, let¡¯s go.¡±Iris, who had been on the verge of tears, nodded and stood up.


    She followed Ryan out of the dining room, trying to hold back her sobs.


    As they drove back home, Iris couldn¡¯t hold it in any longer. Tears streamed down her face.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ryan. I didn¡¯t mean to cause any trouble.¡± Iris said, her eyes flooded with tears.


    Ryan nced at her, his expression softening. Ryan: ¡°You didn¡¯t cause any trouble, Iris. My family was out of line.


    ¡°Iris sobbed quietly, feeling a mix of relief and sadness.


    Ryan reached over and gently took her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. When they arrived home, Iris went straight to their bedroom, her emotions overwhelming her.


    She sat on the edge of the bed, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs.


    Ryan followed her, standing at the door, with his arm folded.


    ¡°Iris looked up at him, her eyes red and puffy.


    ¡°Why do they hate me so much? What did I do wrong?¡± Iris questioned.


    Ryan sighed, brushing a strand of hair from her face. ¡°You did nothing wrong. They¡¯re just¡­ difficult. But you don¡¯t deserve to be treated that way.


    ¡°Iris leaned into his embrace, feeling a glimmer of hope. Despite his cold demeanor, Ryan still cared for her.


    ¡°Thank you, Ryan. That means a lot.¡±Ryan kissed her forehead, a tender gesture that made her feel safe and loved, if only for a moment.


    The night had been difficult, but Iris knew she had to stay strong. She had faced worse challenges and survived. With Ryan by her side, she felt she could endure anything, even the cold and cruel treatment from his family.


    As they sat together in the quiet of their bedroom, Iris felt a renewed determination. She would prove to everyone that she was more than what they saw. She would seed, not just for herself, but for her mother, and for her future

 Chapter 24

    Back at the Mansion¡­.


    As the front door closed behind Ryan and Iris, an uneasy silence settled over the dining room.


    Mrs. Rose, ever the hostess, quickly motioned for everyone¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Please, everyone, let¡¯s not dwell on Ryan and Iris leaving early. Let¡¯s continue with our food and drinks. Tonight is about celebrating Ivy¡¯s sess.¡±


    She raised her ss in a toast, and the remaining guests followed suit. The awkwardness gradually disappeared as they focused on the celebration at hand. Conversation andughter filled the room once more, and the atmosphere lightened.


    Eventually, the dinner drew to a close. Guests began to thank Ivy for the invitation and slowly went out of the mansion.


    As thest of the guests departed, Be remained seated, her eyes following the Kendricks with an elegant smile.


    Mr. Kendrick, noticing Be, walked over to her.


    ¡°Be, it¡¯s always a pleasure to have you with us.


    How are your parents doing?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re doing well, Mr. Kendrick. I¡¯ll be sure to extend your greetings to them.


    ¡°Please do. It was wonderful seeing you again.¡±With that, he retired to his room, leaving Mrs. Rose, Ivy, and Be in the opulent sitting room.


    The three women, each strikingly beautiful and poised, shared a moment ofpanionship.


    ¡°Thank you so much foring, Be. Your presence means a lot to us, especially to me tonight.¡± Ivy said.


    ¡°Yes, Be, thank you. How is your mother? And how¡¯s your career going?¡± Mrs Rose asked


    Be¡¯s smile was as graceful as ever.


    ¡°Mother is doing well, thank you. She¡¯s currently managing a new project in Europe. As for me, my career is going splendidly. I¡¯ve just signed with a new brand and have a few exciting campaigns lined up.¡± Be replied


    ¡°We¡¯re so proud of you, Be. You¡¯ve always been a great help to Ivy. You¡¯re like family to us.¡± Mrs Rose said.


    Be¡¯s eyes sparkled with genuine affection, though a flicker of something else lingered beneath the surface. ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Rose,¡± Be replied.


    ¡°It means a lot to me. I hope Iris is doing well. She didn¡¯t seem too good tonight.¡±


    Ivy rolled her eyes while Mrs. Rose¡¯s face hardened. ¡°Who cares if Iris is fine? She can go to hell for all I care. I still can¡¯t believe how Ryan would settle for a low-life whore when he has a diamond-like you. Mrs Rose said.


    ¡°Be blushed slightly at thepliment, her smile never faltering. ¡°It¡¯s fine, Mrs. Rose. It¡¯s his choice, and I¡¯m happy for him if that¡¯s what he wants. We should all be happy for him. Be saidConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    ¡°Ivy sighed, shaking her head, ¡°Oh Be, you¡¯re such a gem. I don¡¯t know how Ryan was blind enough not to see that. Iris has nothing to offer. She¡¯s only married to my brother because of his wealth and fame. But look at you, you have pure love for him


    ¡°Be¡¯s smile remained, though her eyes darkened momentarily as she said, ¡°Well, it¡¯s going to be fine. I should take my leave now.


    ¡°Alright, dear. Take care. Mrs Rose replied


    ¡°Ivy stood up to see Be out. They walked to the door together, exchanging a few more pleasantries. Be¡¯sposure was impable, masking the storm of emotions swirling within her.


    As she got into her car, Be couldn¡¯t help but rey the evening in her mind.


    Seeing Ryan with Iris had stirred a deep-seated anger and frustration within her. She gripped the steering wheel tightly, her knuckles turning white.


    The sight of Ryan pulling out the dining chair for Iris had been the final straw, a painful reminder of the love she had longed for but never received.


    ¡°Why can¡¯t he see what¡¯s right in front of him? I¡¯ve always been there for him, always loved him. And he chooses her?¡±Her mind raced as she drove away from the mansion, the luxurious surroundings blurring past her.


    She couldn¡¯t let this go on any longer. If Ryan was blind to Iris¡¯s maniptions, she would have to open his eyes.


    She had to find a way to make him see the truth, to realize that she was the one who truly cared for him. Back at the mansion, Mrs. Rose and Ivy settled back into the sitting room, their earlier warmth now reced with cold determination.


    ¡°Mom, Be is such a wonderful person. I wish Ryan could see that.¡±


    ¡°He will, Ivy. Eventually, he will see through Iris¡¯s facade. We just need to be patient, Mrs Rose replied.


    ¡°I hope so. I can¡¯t stand to see him with her any longer. Ivy said.


    ¡°Neither can I, darling. But we must be strategic about this. Iris¡¯s time here wille to an end, and when it does, we¡¯ll be ready.¡± Mrs Rose said.


    They shared a look of mutual understanding. The Kendricks were nothing if not resilient, and they had no intention of letting Iris disrupt their family any longer.


    Meanwhile, Be¡¯s car sped through the night, her mind formting a n. She couldn¡¯t sit idly by and watch Iris tear Ryan apart.


    She had to act, and she had to act swiftly. As she drove, she made a silent vow to herself.


    ¡°I will protect Ryan from her. No matter what it takes.¡±

 Chapter 25

    Mrs. Rose entered the master bedroom, its grandeur reflecting the wealth and status of the Kendrick family.


    The room was enormous, with high ceilings and elegant crown moldings. Plush carpets cushioned her footsteps as she approached her husband, who was in the middle of changing.


    Arge, king-sized bed with a canopy draped in luxurious fabrics dominated one side of the room.


    On the other side, a seating area with a chaise lounge and a coffee table overlooked the manicured gardens outside through floor-to-ceiling windows.


    Mr. Kendrick was unbuttoning his shirt, his back turned to her. She walked up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist, resting her head against his broad back.


    ¡°Honey,¡± she began softly, she was cut short by her husband.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like the way you spoke to Iris. She¡¯s your son¡¯s wife. She should be given and shown respect. What you and Ivy did was wrong.¡±Mr. Kendrick said as he sighed deeply, removing his shoes and cing them neatly by the bed.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    ¡°Rose, I expected better from you. She¡¯s my son¡¯s wife and deserves some respect.


    ¡°My son¡¯s wife, my foot. She deserves everything thrown at her and more. She¡¯s a lowlife, honey.¡± Mrs Rose retorted.


    Mr. Kendrick turned to face her, his expression stern and tired. ¡°I expected better from you, Rose.¡± He sighed again, running a hand through his graying hair.


    ¡°By the way, have you noticed that Iris and Ivy kind of look alike and have a few simrities?¡±


    ¡°No way does that whore look anything like my daughter,¡± she spat, her eyes narrowing.


    ¡°Be fair with Iris, please.¡±With that, he turned and walked into the bathroom, closing the door behind him.


    The bathroom was as magnificent as the bedroom, with marble floors and countertops, arge soaking tub, and a spacious ss-enclosed shower. Mr. Kendrick stepped into the shower and turned on the water, letting the cold stream wash over him.


    The sensation of the water running over his skin was a much-needed distraction from the thoughts swirling in his mind.


    As the water continued to cascade down his body, he couldn¡¯t help but think back to the past. The memories he had tried so hard to bury came rushing back.


    He knew that what had happened that day had to remain hidden. He hadn¡¯t expected things to turn out the way they did, but it was beyond his control, and he med himself for everything.


    He was determined never to let the truthe to light. The water from the shower continued to dance around his body, each droplet a reminder of the secrets he had to keep.


    He was brought back to reality by the sound of his wife¡¯s voice calling out to him.


    ¡°Honey, you have spent a long time in there, Are you alright in there, honey?¡±


    There was no response. Panic started to creep into her voice.


    ¡°Honey? Honey? Oh my God, honey!¡± she screamed, her voice echoing off the marble walls. She rushed to the bathroom door and pounded on it, fear gripping her heart.


    ¡°Somebody help!¡±Her screams echoed through the vast mansion, and within moments, servants came running. One of them, a tall man with strong arms, managed to force the door open.


    They found Mr. Kendrick copsed in the shower, the water still running over his lifeless body


    Mrs. Rose was beside herself with panic and grief, her hands shaking as she knelt beside her husband.


    ¡°No, no, no! Please, no!¡±The servants quickly turned off the water and carried Mr. Kendrick out of the shower. Theyid him on the floor, and one of them, who had some medical training, began administering CPR.


    Mrs. Rose watched in horror, her tears mixing with the water on the floor. Mrs. Rose: ¡°Please, please don¡¯t leave me!¡±The minutes dragged on, each second feeling like an eternity.


    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Mr. Kendrick coughed and sputtered, his eyes fluttering open.


    ¡°Honey?¡± He called her. She copsed in relief beside him, her sobs of fear turning to sobs of gratitude.


    ¡°Yes my love, You¡¯re okay! Oh, thank God, you¡¯re okay!¡±The servants helped Mr. Kendrick to his feet and wrapped him in a towel, leading him back to the bedroom.


    Mrs. Rose stayed close by his side, her hands never leaving his. As they settled him onto the bed, Mrs. Rose looked into his eyes, her own filled with worry and love.


    ¡°What happened, honey? You scared me to death.¡±Mr. Kendrick took a deep breath, the weight of the secrets he carried pressing down on him. ¡°I¡­ I just got dizzy. I¡¯m fine now, honey really.


    ¡°But Mrs. Rose wasn¡¯t convinced. She knew her husband better than anyone, and she could see the strain in his eyes.


    ¡°You need to see a doctor. This isn¡¯t something we can ignore.¡±Mr. Kendrick nodded reluctantly, knowing she was right. The past had a way of catching up with him, and he couldn¡¯t keep running from it forever.


    As hey in bed, his thoughts drifted back to that fateful day, the one he had tried so hard to forget. He had to keep it hidden, not just for his sake, but for the sake of his family.


    The truth was too dangerous to be revealed. But for now, he had to focus on the present. He reached out and took his wife¡¯s hand, squeezing it gently.


    Mr. Kendrick: ¡°I¡¯m sorry, honey. I¡¯ll be fine I promise.¡±Mrs. Rose nodded, her eyes still filled with worry.


    ¡°We¡¯ll get through this together, honey. Just promise me you¡¯ll take care of yourself.


    ¡± ¡°I promise,¡± he said.


    As theyy together in the dim light of the bedroom, the grandeur of their surroundings seemed to fade away. All that mattered was the love and support they had for each other. Despite the secrets and the pain, they were still a team, and they would face whatever came their way together.


    But deep down, Mr. Kendrick knew that the past could only stay buried for so long. One day, the truth woulde to light, and when it did, he would have to face the consequences. Until then, he would hold onto the present and cherish the moments he had with his family.

 Chapter 26

    The morning sun filtered through the windows as Ryan rushed to his parent¡¯s mansion, the worry evident on his face.


    The call he had received about his father¡¯s health had been rming, and he had wasted no time getting there.


    As he entered the grand hallway, the familiar scent of the house filled his senses, but today it brought nofort. He hurried up the stairs, two steps at a time, and made his way to his father¡¯s room.


    Inside, he found his mother, Mrs. Rose, and his sister, Ivy, gathered around Mr. Kendrick¡¯s bed.


    Dr. Parker, their long-time family physician, was conducting an examination.


    Dr. Parker, a tall man with brown hair and hazel eyes, stood out in his white coat, his 6¡¯4¡å frame adding to hismanding presence in the room.


    ¡°Dad,¡± Ryan called out, his voice trembling with concern. ¡°What happened?¡±Mrs. Rose looked up, her face etched with worry.


    She quickly stood up and hugged her son tightly.¡±Ryan,¡± she whispered, her voice breaking. ¡°He had a heart attack. The doctor says it¡¯s high blood pressure due to stress.


    ¡°Ryan hugged her back, patting her back gently. ¡°It¡¯s going to be alright, Mom. Dad is strong. He¡¯ll pull through this.¡±Ivy, who was sitting beside Mr. Kendrick, holding his hand, looked up with teary eyes. ¡°We need him to be okay, Ryan,¡± she said softly.


    Dr. Parker finished his examination and turned to the family. ¡°Mrs. Rose, Ryan, can I speak with you both downstairs?¡±


    They nodded and followed him out of the room, leaving Ivy to watch over their father.


    In the spacious and elegantly decorated living room, Dr. Parker began exining the situation. ¡°Mr. Kendrick had a heart attack, likely brought on by high blood pressure and stress. He needs to avoid any strenuous activities, stress, and any shocking news.¡±


    ¡°Will he be okay?¡± Ryan asked, his voice steady but filled with concern.¡±Yes, he will,¡± Dr. Parker replied reassuringly. ¡°But he needs a lot of rest and to avoid any kind of stress. It¡¯s crucial for his recovery.


    ¡°Ryan sighed with relief. ¡°Thank you, Dr. Parker.¡± He extended his hand, and Dr. Parker shook it firmly.¡±You¡¯re wee, son,¡± Dr. Parker said, smiling more than usual.


    Ryan turned and headed back to his father¡¯s room. As soon as he was out of sight, Dr. Parker turned to Mrs. Rose and hugged her passionately, giving her a light squeeze on her butt. She pushed his hands away, a look of annoyance on her face.¡±We can¡¯t do this here,¡± she hissed, detaching from the hug.


    Dr. Parkerposed himself quickly. ¡°Of course,¡± he said, clearing his throat. They both returned to Mr. Kendrick¡¯s room. Mrs. Rose sat beside her husband, gently holding his hand while Dr. Parker packed up his medical kit.


    ¡°Ryan,¡± Dr. Parker said, turning to him, ¡°could you drop by the hospital to pick up your father¡¯s medications?¡±Ryan nodded. ¡°Of course, Dr. Parker.¡±


    As Dr. Parker left, Mr. Kendrick, sedated by the medication, drifted into a deep sleep. He had sustained minor injuries from his fall in the bathroom, but they were not serious. Ryan decided it was best to head to work since his father was resting.


    ¡°Mom, Ivy, look after Dad. I¡¯ll be at the office if you need me.¡±Mrs. Rose and Ivy nodded, their eyes never leaving Mr. Kendrick. Ryan left the mansion, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    His father was aging and now had a serious health condition. This meant he could no longer handle the rigors of running the family empire. Ryan knew it was time for his father to step down and officially hand over the reins.


    Thepany couldn¡¯t afford to be led by someone whose health was in jeopardy.


    As his chauffeur drove him to the office, Ryan couldn¡¯t shake the heavy thoughts from his mind. He wanted his father to be well, but he also knew that for the good of the business and his father¡¯s health, changes needed to be made.


    He would ensure that his father got the rest he needed, and he would step up to lead thepany with the same strength and dedication that his father had shown, Ryan was ready to face whatever challenges came his way.


    He knew that the road ahead would be challenging, but he was determined to do whatever it took to protect his family and their legacy. As the night settled in, Ryan made a silent promise to himself.


    Upon arriving at the office, Ryan¡¯s assistant, Luca, immediately noticed the somber expression on his boss¡¯s face.¡±What¡¯s up, man?¡± Luca asked, concern in his voice. ¡°You don¡¯t look good.¡±Ryan sighed.


    ¡°Dad¡¯s ill. He has high blood pressure.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s bad,¡± Luca said sympathetically. ¡°How is he now?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s responding to treatment,¡± Ryan replied. ¡°But he had a heart attack. He needs rest and to stay away from stress.¡±Luca nodded. ¡°He¡¯ll need to retire soon. He¡¯s not getting any younger.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ryan said, frustration creeping into his voice. ¡°He should just hand everything over to me already. I¡¯m tired of being seen as the acting CEO.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll make the right decision,¡± Luca said reassuringly. Just as they were talking, a knock at the door interrupted them. ¡°Come in,¡± Ryan called out. The door opened, revealing a woman who was the perfect distraction he needed at the moment.


    She was elegant andposed, her arrival brought a wee change to the tense atmosphere.


    Ryan forced a smile, trying to push his worries to the back of his mind, hoping for a brief respite from the day¡¯s troubles.


    Back at the Mansion¡­¡­..


    Mrs. Rose and Ivy did their best to take care of Mr. Kendrick. Ivy, though often seen as the spoiled one, showed a surprising amount of care and tenderness towards her father.


    She held his hand and whispered words of encouragement, hoping to keep his spirits high. Mrs. Rose, on the other hand, couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of dread.


    The secrets of the past were starting to resurface, and she feared what might happen if they were ever revealed. She knew that the family¡¯s future depended on keeping those secrets buried, no matter the cost.

 Chapter 27

    Emily sauntered into Ryan¡¯s office with a purpose, her presence impossible to ignore. She was dressed in a form-fitting ck pencil skirt that hugged her curves in all the right ces, and a crisp white blouse with the top few buttons undone, revealing a tantalizing glimpse of her cleavage. Her high heels clicked against the floor with each step, adding to her confident, seductive aura.


    ¡°Good morning, Mr. Kendrick,¡± she greeted him, her voice smooth and alluring. ¡°There are some documents that need your signature.¡±


    Luca, who had been in the room discussing some urgent matters with Ryan, immediately understood the silent exchange of looks between Emily and Ryan. Sensing the need for privacy, he stood up and excused himself. ¡°I¡¯ll be back in a bit, Ryan,¡± he said, nodding at Emily before leaving the office.


    As soon as the door clicked shut, Emily walked over to Ryan¡¯s desk, her hips swaying with every step. She leaned forward to ce the files on his desk, and Ryan couldn¡¯t help but notice how her blouse gaped open, showcasing her ample cleavage.


    Her top button was undone, nearly exposing her breasts. She bit her lower lip seductively, her eyes never leaving his as she slowly ran her hands over her hips, clearly itching for more intimate contact.


    Ryan felt a surge of arousal. He was known for his rule of never being with the same woman twice, but Emily¡¯s tant invitation was hard to resist. He stood up, feeling his erection straining against his pants. Moving swiftly around the desk, he grabbed her by the hair and pulled her close, his other hand gripping her waist as he lifted her onto the desk.


    Emily gasped in surprise but quickly parted her legs, eager to feel him inside her. Ryan didn¡¯t waste any time; he pushed her skirt up to her hips, revealing hercy thong. His fingers found her wet and ready. He thrust two fingers into her slick entrance, eliciting a moan of pleasure from her.


    ¡°You¡¯re already so wet,¡± he murmured, pulling his fingers out and bringing them to her mouth. ¡°Suck,¡± he ordered.


    Emily eagerly took his fingers into her mouth, licking and sucking them clean. Ryan watched her, smirking, as he reached down to squeeze her breast through her blouse, making her moan louder.


    Emily reached for his shirt, wanting to touch him, but Ryan jerked her hand away. ¡°Don¡¯t touch me, you bitch,¡± he growled, his tone harsh.


    He returned his attention to her dripping core, thrusting his fingers inside her again while his other hand roughly squeezed her nipple. Emily¡¯s moans filled the office as she writhed in pleasure, her body responding to his touch with increasing urgency. She wanted him, all of him, but Ryan seemed intent on teasing her.


    Just as she felt on the brink of climax, Ryan abruptly pulled his fingers out of her and stepped back. ¡°Get out,¡± he ordered coldly.


    Emily blinked, stunned. ¡°But we haven¡¯t done anything yet,¡± she protested, her voice trembling with desire and confusion.


    ¡°I said, leave,¡± Ryan barked, his eyes zing with intensity.


    She flinched at his harsh tone, sliding off the desk and quickly rearranging her clothes. Humiliated and still throbbing with unmet need, she opened the door and left without another word.


    Ryan sat back down, his mind a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts. The brief encounter had been a wee distraction from the turmoil surrounding his father¡¯s health, but it also left him feeling hollow. He knew he had crossed a line, one that he never intended to cross again.


    He nced at the files Emily had left on his desk and sighed, trying to refocus on work. The empire needed his full attention, especially now that his father was unwell. Personal distractions, no matter how tempting, could not be allowed to interfere with his responsibilities.


    As the day wore on, Ryan buried himself in work, pushing aside the lingering tension from the encounter with Emily.


    He needed to be strong, for his family and thepany. There was no room for weakness, no time for indulgence. The future of the Kendrick empire rested on his shoulders, and he was determined not to let anyone down


    He knew he had to have a serious conversation with his father about stepping down.


    Ryan sat in his office, staring nkly at the documents on his desk. As he tried to focus on work, a sudden realization struck him.


    He had forgotten to pick up his father¡¯s medications. He bolted upright, quickly gathering his things. As he walked out of his office, he saw Luca. ¡°Luca, I need to head to the hospital to pick up my father¡¯s medications and then go see him.


    I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±Luca nodded, noticing the tension in Ryan¡¯s voice. ¡°Take care, Ryan. Let me know if you need anything.¡±Ryan gave a brief nod and hurried out, his thoughts racing.


    He couldn¡¯t shake the uneasy feeling that had settled in his gut when Dr. Parker had held his hand and smiled earlier. Something was unsettling about it, but he decided to push the thought aside.


    He needed to focus on his father. He got into the car, and his chauffeur closed the door behind him before getting in and driving off.


    They arrived at Central Medical Hospital, one of the city¡¯s most prestigious and top-notch hospitals. The building was an architectural marvel, with its sleek ss exterior and modern design.


    Inside, the hospital was just as impressive, with spacious, well-lit corridors and state-of-the-art medical equipment. Ryan walked through the lobby, exchanging polite nods with the receptionist.


    ¡°Dr. Parker is with a patient right now, but you can wait in his office,¡± she informed him with a warm smile.¡±Thank you,¡± Ryan replied and made his way to Dr. Parker¡¯s office.


    Dr. Parker¡¯s office wasrge and elegantly furnished, reflecting his status as a leading physician.


    The walls were adorned with certificates and awards, and arge mahogany desk dominated the room. Behind it, shelves were filled with medical textbooks and journals.


    Afortable leather sofa and chairs were arranged near the window, offering a view of the city skyline.


    Ryan settled into one of the chairs and took out his phone. As he scrolled through Instagram, he saw Ivy¡¯stest post about her new endorsement deal.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    He reacted to the post, feeling a mix of pride and happiness. His sister seemed to be living the life of his dreams, while he was stuck dealing with endless responsibilities and family drama.


    Suddenly, a phone on Dr. Parker¡¯s desk started vibrating. It wasn¡¯t Ryan¡¯s phone. Curiously, he reached out to check who was calling but stopped when Dr. Parker burst into the room.


    ¡°Sorry to keep you waiting, Ryan,¡± Dr. Parker said, his voice warm and reassuring. ¡°Please, sit down.¡±Ryan stood up and exchanged pleasantries with the doctor, still puzzled by the ¡°son¡± and ¡°son¡± endearments.


    He couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit ufortable, but he decided to let it go for now.


    ¡°How¡¯s your father?¡± Dr. Parker asked, genuinely concerned.¡±I haven¡¯t seen him since I left for work. I¡¯m just here to pick up his medications,¡± Ryan replied.


    ¡°Alright, son. That¡¯s fine. Your dad is going to be fine,¡± Dr. Parker said, patting Ryan on the shoulder. ¡°Let me get the medications for you. I¡¯ll be right back.¡±Ryan nodded and waited as Dr. Parker stepped out of the room.


    He couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of unease. There was something about the way Dr. Parker had smiled earlier that he couldn¡¯t quite put his finger on.


    Dr. Parker returned shortly with a small bag of medications. ¡°Administer these as prescribed. Call me if there¡¯s anything else you need, son.¡±Ryan took the bag and thanked Dr. Parker. As he turned to leave, Dr. Parker called him back. ¡°Take care of yourself, Ryan.


    ¡°With a polite nod, Ryan left the office. As he walked down the corridor, his mind raced with thoughts about his father¡¯s health, the business, and the strange feeling he got from Dr. Parker.

 Chapter 28

    Back in his office, Dr. Parker sank into his chair, a satisfied smile ying on his lips. He picked up his phone and dialed the number that had called him.


    ¡°Hello?¡± he said, waiting for a response from the other end.


    ¡°Where have you been? Why weren¡¯t you picking up my calls?¡± the voice on the other end demanded.


    ¡°You know I¡¯m at work. I was busy with a patient,¡± Dr. Parker replied, his tone calm but firm. ¡°And I¡¯ve told you to stop calling at these hours. I¡¯m usually busy.¡±


    ¡°Well, why did you call?¡± Dr. Parker asked, softer now.


    ¡°Just checking up on you,¡± the voice said, softening.¡±Really? Someone unexpectedly almost saw your calls.


    ¡°Thank God no one did,¡± the voice said, sounding relieved.


    ¡°How is he?¡± Dr. Parker asked after a pause.¡±Good, I guess,¡± the voice replied. ¡°Alright. I have to go back to work now, honey. Take care. Bye.¡±


    ¡°Bye,¡± the voice responded.


    Dr. Parker ended the call just as he heard a knock on the door. ¡°Dr. Parker?¡± a voice called out.¡±Come in,¡± he replied, quicklyposing himself.


    *********************


    As the evening approached, Ryan returned home, exhausted from the day¡¯s events. He went straight to his father¡¯s room, finding him still asleep. Ivy was there, her eyes red from crying.¡±How is he?¡± Ryan asked softly.¡±He¡¯s been sleeping most of the day,¡± Ivy replied.


    ¡°Dr. Parker said that¡¯s a good sign.¡±Ryan nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. ¡°Thanks for staying with him.¡±Ivy gave him a small smile. ¡°Of course. He¡¯s our dad.¡±Ryan sat down beside his father¡¯s bed, taking a moment to gather his thoughts.


    He quietly handed the medication to his mother. ¡°Here, Mom. The doctor says to administer them as prescribed.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Ryan,¡± Mrs. Rose said, her voice strained with worry. ¡°Your father will be fine.¡±


    Ryan gave her a reassuring nod and turned to leave. He needed to clear his head, so he decided to stop by a nearby bar before heading home.


    The bar was dimly lit, with soft jazz ying in the background. He ordered a whiskey, hoping the drink would help ease the turmoil in his mind. He took slow sips, letting the alcohol warm his insides, but his thoughts remained scattered.


    After a few drinks, he felt a bit moreposed and decided to head home. The drive was silent, and he felt the weight of the day pressing down on him.


    When he walked through the front door, he found Iris pacing in the living room. The moment she saw him, she rushed over, her face a mask of concern.


    ¡°How¡¯s your dad? Hope it wasn¡¯t too serious. Where is he now? How is he feeling?¡± she asked in rapid session.


    Ryan answered curtly, ¡°He¡¯s fine,¡± and headed upstairs to his room, trying to avoid further conversation.


    Iris followed him, her questions persistent. ¡°Ryan, I know you¡¯re tired and stressed. Do you want something to eat? How was your day? Is your dad at home or in the hospital?¡±


    He ignored her, mming his bedroom door shut, as she felt a rush of frustration and exhaustion. But she didn¡¯t have much time to wallow in it because she soon heard a click and the door opening. Before she could fully react, he grabbed her and pulled her into the room.


    His kiss was urgent, desperate. She tasted the whiskey on his breath and tried to protest. ¡°Ryan, you¡¯re drunk. You don¡¯t know what you¡¯re doing.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not drunk,¡± he snapped, his voice rough. ¡°Compose yourself.¡± His hands moved over her body with a hunger that silenced her protests. He needed to forget, to feel something other than the weight of his responsibilities.


    Iris responded to his touch, her frustrations melting away in the heat of the moment. Their clothes were a blur, quickly discarded as they moved to the bed. His touch was demanding, rough yet full of a passion that took her breath away. He kissed her neck, moving down to her breasts, his hands exploring every inch of her skin.


    She moaned softly, her body arching to meet his. He took his time, savoring the feel of her beneath him. His hands moved to her breast as he cupped it as he pinched her nipples slightly making a moan escape from her lips.


    He bent his head and filled up his mouth with her boobs, biting and chewing slowly, engulfed in pleasure she had never experienced before, the moan from her lips increased.


    Ryan, although drunk, didn¡¯t want to rush things, he explored her body one after the other, ensuring to got the right response from her body.


    He lifted her as heid her gently on the bed, and he started taking off her nightie, Iris tried resisting but the cold stare from Ryan exined better, as she let go of his hands she held.


    He continued as he took off the yellow stripe nightie, leaving her naked.


    His eyes trailed from her cheeks which had turned red in embarrassment to her medium-sized boobs and pointy nipples, her pretty belly button and of course, her neatly shaved pussy dripping with her juice.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    The sight of her dripping pussy had caused a movement in-between his legs, the sight of her bare body, drove him crazy in the most unusual way.


    He was a girl¡¯s guy and was always ready to fuck every pussy, but this pussy in front of him was just something else, he wanted to devour her and all of her, but something in him wanted to take it slowly.


    At that moment he felt like the world had stopped and the only thing that mattered was the both of them, he took off his white long-sleeved shirt, white vest, and his ck trousers and he was left with just his white Versace boxer.


    His 6-inch dick could be seen as it stretched inside the boxer, Iris who looked away initially, stealing nces at Ryan as he u dressed, her eyes widened in fear as she saw the hardness and size of Ryan¡¯s dick from his boxers.


    She noticed he was a lover of white, his room was painted in white, his bedsheets and duvet were also white, and his bathroom, towel, and most of his clothes were all white.


    Lost in thought, Iris was brought back as Ryan spread her leg wide across the bed.


    ¡°Please hold on Ryan,¡± I said, fear written all over my face.


    ¡°What is it¡±? He barked¡­¡­

 Chapter 29

    ¡°Please, I need you to take it gently ¡± I replied, my voice shaking.


    ¡°Gently?¡± Ryan gave a lopsided smile.


    ¡°I see you like it gently, that¡¯s how the men in the club give you? Slowly and gently¡±?


    ¡°Well I think it¡¯s time for a change, don¡¯t you think?¡± he said.


    With that he took off his boxers as his dick stood erect pointing forward, Iris grasped, ¡°Oh¡±.


    Ryan chuckled as made his way into her already dripping pussy, immediately Iris let out a scream as she felt a sharp pain down there.


    Ryan, who thrust in, found it difficult to go inpletely as his dick found it difficult to prate, without thinking about anything he thrust with force into her again, this time earning a scream from Iris.


    ¡°Fuck! you are fucking tight¡± he muttered with his eyes closed and his head slightly bent backward.


    Ryan tried to prate Iris but was finding it difficult, so he took his fingers and slid them into her pussy.


    She let out a soft moan as he thrust continuously, and then made the finger two Inside her as he kept on thrusting, her walls were so tight, he haven¡¯t fucked ady this tight in years.


    When he felt her pussy was free enough, he thrust into her without any notice, making Iris grasp and thighed her eyes and hands in pain.


    He started with a slow, deliberate thrust that made her moan in pain and pleasure as she bit her lips.


    He moved within her, their bodies in perfect sync, each thrust pushing them closer to the edge. Iris wrapped her legs around him, pulling him deeper, her fingers digging into his back and moving into his shining ck hair.


    Their movements became more frantic, driven by a need that neither of them fully understood. The world outside ceased to exist as they lost themselves in each other.


    Ryan saw that the need of thrusting slowly was not needed, he increased his pace and thrust into her with full force and speed.


    Iris who was now literally in pain began to moan loudly as tears streamed down her eyes, Ryan didn¡¯t care or notice her sobs, he went on and on thrusting into her with force.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Iris knew there was nothing she could, do as shey there, she had exhausted her tears and all she could think of was her mother.


    She had done all of this because of her mother, she epted the contract because of her mother and here she is now, being stripped of her virginity by a man who cares less about her or her feelings.


    Ryan¡¯s thrusting stopped as she said a short prayer, happy he was done, Ryan immediately ordered her,  ¡°Lift your legs,¡± huh she said looking confused.


    ¡°I won¡¯t repeat myself,¡± he said.


    Iris without saying a word lifted her legs, Ryan ced her legs on his shoulders as he dig his tongue into her pussy, as she sucked and licked her pussy up.


    ¡°Ahhhhh fuck, oh oh fuck¡± she moaned continuously.


    Ryan didn¡¯t stop as he kept digging deep with his tongue, making Iris moan loudly.


    He stopped and inserted his dick into her pussy and thrust deep and fast as he cupped her boobs and sucked her boobs as if his life depended on it.


    He continued for a while as her walls tightened and her moan increased, ¡°Ahhhhhhhhhh fuck¡± she screamed as they finally reached their climax, it was explosive.


    Theyy tangled together, their breaths heavy, their bodies slick with sweat. Ryan copsed beside her, pulling her close.


    For a moment, all was quiet, and he felt a sense of peace that had been eluding him for so long.


    The next morning, Ryan woke up, turning to see Iris beside him. Her face was peaceful, and he couldn¡¯t help but notice how beautiful she looked.


    The memories ofst night were vivid and brought a smile to his lips. He hadn¡¯t felt such a connection in a long time.


    Iris stirred, opening her eyes to find him watching her. Embarrassed, she pulled the sheet up to cover herself. Ryan¡¯s expression quickly changed back to his usual cold demeanor. He got up, pretending to look out the window.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Iris asked, her voice tentative.


    ¡°Do I look like I¡¯m not alright?¡± he replied, his tone harsh. ¡°You¡¯re awake. You can leave my room.¡±


    Iris stared at him, hurt and confused. ¡°Now!¡± he barked, making her flinch. She quickly gathered her nightie and headed to the door.


    As she was about to leave, he added, ¡°Forget aboutst night. It meant nothing. Don¡¯t build any crazy ideas in your head.¡±


    Without looking back, Iris nodded and left, closing the door behind her. Once in her room, she curled up on the bed and cried. The night had been magical, but his cold dismissal shattered her.


    Ryan ran his hands through his hair, trying to push the memories away. Her touch had been so delicate, so real. He sighed and threw himself back on the bed, staring at the ceiling.


    He felt something wet on his hand.


    ¡°Did Iris pee on my bed?¡± He looked down to see a damp spot on the bed.


    Panic surged through him. He hoped Iris hadn¡¯t wet the bed, but when he looked closer, he realized it wasn¡¯t that.


    There, on the sheet, was a small pool of blood. Shocked, he quickly got up and examined the sheets. It wasn¡¯t a significant amount, but it was enough to worry him.


    Confused and concerned, Ryan dressed quickly and went to find Iris. He needed to make sure she was okay.


    He got to her door and knocked softly as he called her.


    ¡°Iris, Iris open up,¡± he said calmly.


    ¡°Go away and leave me alone¡± she replied from inside amongst her tears.


    ¡°Please I just want to talk, are you okay?¡± He asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, just go! Go!¡± she answered, tears evidently from her voice.

 Chapter 30

    Irisy on her bed, clutching her pillow tightly as she cried. Her vision blurred with tears, and she could barely breathe from the weight of her sobs.


    The harsh reality of her situation hit her like a ton of bricks. She felt vited, not just physically but emotionally. Her virginity, something she had wanted to share with someone she loved, had been taken by a man she felt no affection for. Ryan¡¯s dismissive attitude only added salt to the wound.


    Outside her room, Ryan knocked softly on the door. ¡°Iris, open up. We need to talk.¡±


    She didn¡¯t answer, just hugged her pillow tighter. The sound of his voice made her feel even more broken. She felt like she had lost a part of herself, a piece she could never get back.


    ¡°Is life any harder than it is already?¡± she whispered to herself. ¡°What else do I have to be proud of? I¡¯ve been ripped off that one thing that made me hold my head high. This was not the n I had for my life.¡±


    Ryan knocked again. ¡°Iris, please. Open the door.¡±


    She closed her eyes, trying to shut out his voice.


    ¡°Iris, please,¡± Ryan¡¯s voice was softer now, almost pleading. ¡°I just want to make sure you¡¯re okay.¡±


    She wiped her tears and took a deep breath. ¡°Leave me alone, Ryan,¡± she finally responded, her voice shaky but firm.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Ryan sighed heavily outside the door. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean for things to happen this way. I was drunk, but that¡¯s no excuse. Just¡­ please, talk to me.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± she replied. ¡°I need time. I need space.¡±


    Ryan stood there for a moment longer before walking away. Iris listened to his footsteps fade down the hallway.


    She felt a mix of anger, sadness, and confusion. How could she continue living in the same house with a man who had taken something so precious from her?


    She buried her face in the pillow again, the memories of her dreams haunting her. She had been so close to achieving something, to build a life she could be proud of. Now, everything felt tainted.


    Memories of her dreams and aspirations shed before her eyes. ¡°I thought life was about growing up, finishing school, getting a job, and saving enough money to open my own fashion house,¡± she murmured. ¡°Fashion has been my passion since I was a little girl.¡±


    shback*********************


    Years ago, Iris was a bright-eyed ten-year-old with big dreams. She didn¡¯t attend the best schools, but she went to one her mother could afford.


    Despite the modest circumstances, she excelled academically, topping her ss every year and winning awards as the best student. From an early age, she was captivated by fashion. She would watch runway shows and admire fashion brands and their owners.


    At home, she started putting pieces of clothes together, creating beautiful designs inspired by the shows she watched. She had a sketchbook filled with drawings of clothes she wanted to make when she grew older. Her dream was clear: she wanted to own a fashion house.


    But life threw her a curveball. Just before her graduation, her mother copsed and was rushed to the hospital by a passerby. Iris ran to the hospital, frantic with worry. The doctors told her that her mother had passed out due to stress, but they didn¡¯t tell her the whole truth. Her mother had pleaded with them not to reveal her true condition to Iris.


    After her mother was discharged, life seemed to return to normal, but it was a facade. Her mother was hiding a serious illness.


    Iris never got to meet her father, who her mother said died when she was pregnant. Despite Iris¡¯s insistence on meeting her father¡¯s rtives, her mother always discouraged it, saying they wanted nothing to do with them.


    Her mother, still young but weakened by kidney disease, became pale and frail. Iris¡¯s determination to get a job grew stronger after graduating college with top grades.


    She submitted her resume everywhere in Houston bars, bookstores, malls, and schools, as a household, caregiver. But no job offers came her way.


    One fateful day, Iris ran into Skr, a former ssmate from college who recently moved into the neighborhood. Skr had always lived with her grandmother.


    She was blunt and carefree, the kind of girl who lived each day as it came. Skr had wanted to be friends, but Iris, with her big dreams and aspirations, had always kept her distance.


    She couldn¡¯t rte to Skr¡¯s obsession with boys and men; her focus was on her future, and her dreams of owning a fashion house.


    Despite her reservations, her mother liked Skr and often sent food to her grandmother before she passed away.


    Skr had no parents or siblings, just her grandmother, who had been a lively and beloved figure in the neighborhood until herst days.


    When her grandmother died, no rtives showed up for the funeral. It was just Iris, her mother, and a few neighbors who came to bid her farewell.


    Everyone loved Skr¡¯s grandmother, and her loss left Skr alone in the world. It was during this time that Iris¡¯s mother asked Skr to move in with them to help her cope with the loss.


    Living together, Iris and Skr shared a room, clothes, and everyday life. They forged a bond through their shared grief and daily struggles.


    But while Skr seemed to move on, getting a job that took her out at night and brought her back in the early hours of the morning, Iris remained stuck, jobless, and increasingly desperate.


    One particrly tough day, Iris was lost in thought, pondering the bleakness of her situation, when she heard a loud noise from the kitchen. Rushing in, she found her mother on the floor, lying in a pool of her blood. Letting out a scream, she called for Skr, and together they managed to rush her mother to the hospital.


    There, the doctor finally opened up about her mother¡¯s condition: kidney failure. She needed an urgent transnt, a procedure that required an amount of money Iris couldn¡¯t even fathom. Tears welled up in her eyes as she wondered how she could ever gather such a sum.


    Skr stood by her side, just as Iris and her mother had stood by her during her grandmother¡¯s death. ¡°Iris, crying won¡¯t solve anything,¡± Skr said, trying to be the voice of reason.


    ¡°But I don¡¯t know what else to do,¡± Iris sobbed. ¡°I have no one aside from Mom. I don¡¯t want anything to happen to her.¡±


    ¡°Hush n uow, Iris. Nothing will happen to her,¡± Skr assured, though she was not entirely convinced. ¡°We need to stay strong.¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t be sure about that. I can¡¯t even afford the drugs she will need,¡± Iris said, the tears intensifying. ¡°What am I supposed to do?¡±

 Chapter 31

    ¡°Really?¡± Iris asked, still in tears, but now with a glimmer of hope.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll talk to my boss and get back to you,¡± Skr promised.¡±I would appreciate that so much. Thank you,¡± Iris said, wiping her eyes.


    Iris was 19, and about to graduate from high school. Her mother was getting sicker, but she hid it well.


    Iris received a mail from a Fashion school, she quickly opened it to read through it.


    She has been epted to a prestigious fashion school in New York, she was overjoyed as she and Sky danced and screamed around the room in excitement but the joy was overshadowed by her mother¡¯s deteriorating health, she had to decline the offer so she could take care of her mother.


    The following day, Skr prepared for work at the club, a big,vish establishment where wealthy men came to entertain themselves with the help of the pretty strippers.


    The club was morous, with glittering lights, plush seats, and an air of luxury and indulgence. Skr changed into a ck, shining lingerie before heading out to meet Mama Peepee, the club¡¯s manager.


    Mama Peepee was a kind but tough woman, known for her no-nonsense attitude and her ever-present cigarette.


    ¡°Mama Peepee, I need to talk to you,¡± Skr began nervously.


    ¡°Speak, Sky. You don¡¯t have much time. You need to be out there,¡± Mama Peepee replied, exhaling a cloud of thick smoke.


    ¡°There¡¯s someone I want to bring in tomorrow. She needs this job,¡± Skr said, her voice trembling slightly.


    ¡°No, Sky, you know my girls here are enough. I don¡¯t want to add another yet,¡± Mama Peepee started, but Skr interrupted.


    ¡°Please, Mama Pee, she needs this job. You¡¯ll like her when you see her. She¡¯s got a nice body, trust me,¡± Skr pressed.


    Mama Peepee shook her head, still puffing on her cigarette. ¡°Oh, Sky. All right, fine. Bring her in tomorrow.¡±Skr hugged Mama Peepee tightly. ¡°Thank you, thank you! You¡¯re the best!¡± she eximed, kissing her on the cheek.


    Mama Peepee smiled slightly. ¡°Now get to work, silly girl.¡±


    The next morning, Iris was a bundle of nerves. She dressed in a corporate outfit,plete with office pants and a chiffon top, her hair in a messy bun, and t shoes.


    She even brought along her certificates and CV. Skr couldn¡¯t stopughing at her.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need all of this,¡± Skr said, shaking her head. ¡°I told you already.¡±


    ¡°What kind of work doesn¡¯t need my certificate? How will they review me?¡± Iris insisted. ¡°Please, let¡¯s just go, Sky.¡±


    Reluctantly, Skr let her dress as she wanted. They took a bus and soon arrived at the club. Confusion was written all over Iris¡¯s face as she looked around.¡±What are we doing here, Sky?¡± Iris asked, bewildered.


    ¡°This is the ce. Come on,¡± Skr replied, leading her inside. Iris¡¯s confusion turned to shock as she took in the club¡¯s opulent interior. The plush seats, glittering lights, and the unmistakable air of luxury and indulgence were overwhelming.


    As the night went on, she began to rx a little. The other girls were not friendly andughed at Iris, at the slightest mistake.


    Skr stayed by her side, guiding her.


    Mama Peepee watched from the sidelines, nodding approvingly as Iris started to find her footing. By the end of the night, Iris was exhausted but proud of herself.


    She had made it through her first shift, after much back and forth and the money she earned gave her a sense of hope. Maybe, just maybe, she could find a way to save her mother.


    The next morning, Iris woke up feeling a mix of emotions. She had taken a big step, but the reality of her new job was still sinking in. She got up and went to check on her mother, who was still weak but stable.


    Skr came into the room with a smile. ¡°How are you feeling?¡±


    ¡°Tired, but okay,¡± Iris replied. ¡°Thank you for helping me. I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do without you.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re in this together,¡± Skr said, hugging her. ¡°We¡¯ll get through it. One step at a time.¡±As Iris looked at her mother, she felt a renewed sense of determination.


    She would do whatever it took to save her, even if it meant stepping out of herfort zone and facing challenges she never imagined. She was not alone, and with Skr by her side, she felt ready to take on the world.


    Present Day****************N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Ryan was still shocked to see that Iris was a virgin.


    ¡°But how is that even possible?¡± He questioned himself.


    ¡°She¡¯s a stripper and a whore, there is something fishy and I must find out.


    He picked up his phone and dialed a number.


    ¡°I want everything Iris reported to me when she started stripping, how long, I want every detail¡± With that he hung up.


    Later that day, Iris decided she needed to confront Ryan.


    She couldn¡¯t lock up herself forever, and she needed to set some boundaries. She found him in his study, staring at hisptop, deep in thought.


    ¡°Ryan,¡± she said, her voice steady but firm. He looked up, surprise flickering in his eyes. ¡°Iris, I¡­..¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t,¡± she interrupted. ¡°I¡¯m not here to hear your excuses. I just need you to know that what happenedst night can never happen again.


    You took something from me, something I can never get back.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± he said quietly. ¡°And I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°Sorry doesn¡¯t change anything,¡± she replied. ¡°I need you to respect my boundaries from now on.


    I¡¯ll stay here because of the contract, but we need to keep our distance.¡±Ryan nodded, a look of regret on his face. ¡°I understand. And I¡¯ll do my best to respect that.¡±


    Iris turned to leave, feeling a sense of empowerment. She had taken the first step towards reiming her life. It wouldn¡¯t be easy, but she was determined to find her way back to her dreams.


    As she walked out of his study, she felt a glimmer of hope. She would rebuild her life, one step at a time. And no matter how difficult it would be, she would find her way back to the dreams she had as a little girl.

 Chapter 32

    Weeks passed, and Iris continued to iste herself, onlying out of her room when Ryan had left for work. Ryan was finding it increasingly difficult to concentrate.


    His thoughts were constantly drifting back to Iris and the hurt he had caused. His friend Luca noticed the change in him.


    One morning, Ryan got up early, determined to confront Iris. Dressed in a blue tux he headed to her room, standing at the door uncertain about what to do.


    He wanted to see her face so badly, that the cold treatment was unbearable. He stretched his hand to knock but stopped halfway, hanging his hand in the air. Frustrated, he turned and left, passing the dining room where his breakfast had been served.


    He headed to the car, where his chauffeur opened the door for him. Ryan sank into the seat, lost in thought as they drove to the office.


    Upon arriving, Luca walked up to him. ¡°Morning, Ryan,¡± he greeted.¡±Morning. What¡¯s my schedule for today?¡± Ryan asked, trying to focus on work.


    ¡°Well, you have a board meeting at 10 AM, a meeting at 2 PM with Beth Fashion¡¯s manager, some proposals to review, and a meeting with our new investors at 4 PM. And that¡¯s all for today,¡± Luca replied.


    All right,¡± Ryan responded, his mind elsewhere.


    Luca hesitated before speaking again. ¡°Ryan, are you sure you¡¯re fine? You haven¡¯t been yourself these days.


    Is everything fine at home?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Luca. Just going through some stuff. I¡¯ll be fine,¡± Ryan replied, trying to brush off Luca¡¯s concern.


    ¡°Can I ask you something, Luca?¡±


    ¡°Yes, go ahead. What is it?¡± Luca said, leaning in.


    ¡°Is it possible for a stripper to be a virgin?¡± Ryan asked.


    Luca burst into uncontrobleughter, causing Ryan to feel like he had said something stupid. ¡°I know, it¡¯s funny, right? I thought so too,¡± Ryan said.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Luca paused, his expression serious. ¡°Wait, are you being serious right now?¡±


    ¡°Yes, man. Iris is a virgin,¡± Ryan whispered.¡±A what? A virgin? Who told you this?¡± Luca asked, his eyes wide in shock.


    ¡°No one did. I found out myself,¡± Ryan replied.¡±Wait, don¡¯t tell me all this while you haven¡¯t touched her,¡± Luca asked incredulously.


    ¡°Well, not until some weeks ago,¡± Ryan said, shrugging.¡±No way! What took you so long?¡± Luca asked.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t attracted to her, and that night was a mistake because I was drunk. I had my way with her only to find bloodstains on my bed the next morning.


    And since then, she¡¯s been giving me the cold shoulder. She doesn¡¯t even want to see me anymore,¡± Ryan exined.


    ¡°Are you bothered?¡± Luca asked, his tone serious.


    ¡°Well, yes. I mean, no. No, I¡¯m not. It¡¯s just that¡­¡± Ryan stammered.


    ¡°No way, no fucking way. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re in love with Iris?¡± Luca said, incredulous.¡±What? Hell no. I mean, you know I don¡¯t do love. So, what are you talking about? I¡¯m just curious and surprised that she was still a virgin,¡± Ryan replied defensively.


    ¡°Never mind, man. Let¡¯s get to the business of the day,¡± Ryan said, trying to change the subject.


    He engrossed himself in work, trying to escape from the thoughts of Iris that kept bothering him.


    He worked until it was 8 PM, then packed up and set to go home. Instead of heading straight home, he drove to a bar and soaked himself in alcohol.


    Unable to drive himself home, he called Luca, who brought him back. As they entered the mansion, Iris had just left her room when she heard voices from downstairs. She hesitated but slowly walked to the top of the stairs, peeking down.


    She saw Luca struggling to get a very drunk Ryan upstairs to his room.¡±Ryan, you need to stop doing this to yourself,¡± Luca said, exasperated as he helped Ryan up the stairs.


    Ryan mumbled incoherently, his eyes zed from the alcohol. ¡°I can¡¯t stop thinking about her, Luca. She¡¯s in my head all the time.¡±


    ¡°I know, buddy. But this isn¡¯t helping anyone, especially not you,¡± Luca replied, his tone gentle but firm.


    Iris stood at the top of the stairs, her heart pounding. She had never seen Ryan like this, so vulnerable and broken.


    It confused her, but she also felt a strange pull tofort him, despite everything that had happened.


    Without thinking, she rushed down the stairs to help. ¡°Luca, let me help you,¡± she said, taking Ryan¡¯s other arm.


    ¡°Thanks, Iris,¡± Luca said, relief evident in his voice. Together, they managed to get Ryan to his room, every step feeling like a thousand steps for Ryan. His head was spinning, and his whole body reeked of alcohol.


    Theyid him on the bed, and Iris thanked Luca as he left. She looked down at Ryan, her mind swirling with a mix of frustration, anger, and pity.


    What had she done to deserve this? She began to take off his shoes, then his shirt and vest. As she was about to remove his wristwatch, Ryan suddenly vomited a pool of alcohol all over her.


    Hot tears streamed down her face as frustration and pain consumed her. Was this really what marriage was supposed to be? Was Ryan deliberately hurting her, making her suffer?


    She stood up and headed to the bathroom, stripping off her soiled clothes and wrapping a white towel around her body.


    She filled a bowl with warm water and grabbed a small towel. Returning to Ryan, she began cleaning him up, her movements gentle despite her anger.


    When she finished, she noticed he was running a fever. She changed the water and used the towel to clean his body again, especially his head until his temperature returned to normal.


    ¡°I think I¡¯m gonna pass out soon so my Dad can know that I tried all my best¡± Ryan mumbled incoherently about family and his troubles before finally drifting into a deep sleep.


    Iris cleaned up the mess he had made, her thoughts racing. As she headed out of the room, something caught her eye.


    A neatly wrapped package on the table. Curiosity piqued, she walked slowly to the table and opened it. Her eyes widened in shock. ¡°Hard drugs?¡± she whispered, disbelief coloring her voice

 Chapter 33

    Ryan woke up with a pounding headache, the events of the previous night a blur.


    He groaned, sitting up in bed and trying to recall how he had gotten home.


    He noticed he was clean and in fresh clothes, but the details escaped him. Iris was downstairs, making breakfast.


    Her mind was still reeling from her discovery. She needed to talk to Ryan about the drugs, but she didn¡¯t know how to approach the subject.


    Ryan slowly made his way downstairs, his head throbbing. He saw Iris in the kitchen and felt a pang of guilt.


    ¡°Morning,¡± he said softly, trying to gauge her mood.¡±Morning,¡± Iris replied, her voice strained. She ced a te of scrambled eggs and toast in front of him. ¡°We need to talk,¡± she said, sitting down across from him.


    Ryan¡¯s heart sank. ¡°About what?¡± he asked, though he had a feeling he knew.¡±I found something in your roomst night,¡± she said, looking him in the eye.


    ¡°Hard drugs. Care to exin?¡±Ryan¡¯s face paled. ¡°Iris, it¡¯s not what you think,¡± he began, but she cut him off.¡±Then what is it, Ryan? Because from where I¡¯m standing, it looks pretty bad,¡± she said, her voice trembling with anger and hurt.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Ryan took a deep breath. ¡°It¡¯s for my father. He lied,  He¡¯s been battling addiction for years. I keep it hidden because I don¡¯t want anyone to know.


    It¡¯s been a struggle trying to help him while dealing with everything else.¡±Iris¡¯s anger softened a bit, but the hurt remained. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Because I didn¡¯t want you to worry. You¡¯ve been through enough already,¡± Ryan said, his voice sincere.


    Iris sighed, her shoulders slumping. ¡°Ryan, I can¡¯t help you if you don¡¯t let me in. This marriage¡­ It¡¯s a partnership. We need to support each other.¡±


    ¡°I know, Iris. I should have told you,¡± Ryan admitted, reaching across the table to take her hand.


    She hesitated but let him. ¡°Okay. But no more secrets. We face things together, understand?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I promise. No more secrets,¡± Ryan said, his eyes meeting hers with genuine remorse.


    Despite their conversation, the tension between Ryan and Iris remained palpable. Iris tried to trust Ryan, but the incident with the drugs lingered in her mind.


    Thanks forst night Iris, he said softly.


    For the first time in her marriage to Ryan, she saw him smile, genuinely it was beautiful.


    She gave a light nod as they continued with their breakfast, Ryan eating absentminded knowing he just lied to her.


    ************************


    Luca walked into the grand house, nodding at the familiar faces of the staff. He asked one of the guards about Ryan¡¯s whereabouts and was told he was likely upstairs.


    He made his way up, ncing at the closed doors until one slightly ajar door caught his attention. Curious, he peeked in.


    Inside, Iris waspletely engrossed in her sketchbook, oblivious to his presence. Luca stepped inside, mesmerized by the intricate designs she was drawing.


    ¡°Wow, these are beautiful,¡± he said, unable to hide his admiration. Startled, Iris looked up. ¡°Oh, Luca! I didn¡¯t notice you there. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, Iris. You were busy with your drawing. Are these already made designs or fresh ideas?¡± he asked, stepping closer to get a better look.¡±They¡¯re fresh ideas,¡± Iris chuckled, slightly embarrassed but pleased with his interest.


    ¡°Wow, they are so good. I haven¡¯t seen anything like this before. I hope you bring them to reality soon,¡± he said, genuinely impressed.¡±I hope so too,¡± Iris replied, her eyes clouding with uncertainty for a moment.


    ¡°You would do great in the fashion world,¡± Luca said, pulling out his card.


    ¡°Call me so we can talk and work on this.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Iris¡¯s face lit up with excitement.¡±Yes,¡± Luca confirmed, smiling. ¡°Oh, thank you so much. I¡¯ll definitely give you a call,¡± she said, her spirits lifted.


    ¡°Do you by chance know where Ryan is?¡± Luca asked, ncing around.¡±I think he should be in his study room,¡± she replied.¡±Okay, thanks. Bye,¡± he said, waving as he left her room.


    Luca walked down the hall, heading toward Ryan¡¯s study when he nearly collided with Ivy. ¡°Are you bi¡­..¡± she started but stopped herself when she saw it was Luca.


    ¡°Hi, Luca. Been a while,¡± she said, her tone immediately shifting to one of charm.¡±Hi, Ivy. How have you been?¡± he asked, keeping the conversation polite.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been great! You know, modeling for top designers. I really don¡¯t have much time, always from one trip to another, one shoot to another,¡± she said, giggling and blushing, acting like a high school girl who was with her crush.


    ¡°Oh, I see. That¡¯s a good one. Well, I¡¯m here to see Ryan, so I¡¯m heading to his study room. Catch you some other time, and sorry for bumping into you,¡± he apologized.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s fine. I wasn¡¯t watching where I was going either,¡± she replied, smiling brightly.¡±Alright, bye,¡± Luca said and left, Ivy¡¯s eyes following him until he was out of sight.


    She stood there for a moment, daydreaming about him. He was everything she wanted and more, but he never seemed to notice her the way she wanted.


    When Luca was out of sight, Ivy walked towards her room. As she passed Iris¡¯s room, something caught her attention. The door was slightly open, and no one was inside. She noticed books, pens, pencils, and a sketchbook with beautiful, elegant designs scattered on the desk.


    Her curiosity got the better of her. Ivy stepped into the room, quickly grabbed the sketchbook, and hurried to her room, looking around to make sure no one saw her.


    Once inside, she locked the door and sat on her bed, opening the sketchbook. Her mouth opened in amazement as she flipped through the pages, seeing the elegant sketches. ¡°These are incredible,¡± she murmured to herself, a mixture of envy and admiration in her voice.


    Luca found Ryan in his study, staring at a pile of documents but not focused. ¡°Hey, Ryan. How are you holding up?¡± Luca asked, closing the door behind him.


    Ryan looked up, his eyes tired and red. ¡°Luca, I don¡¯t know what¡¯s wrong with me. I can¡¯t get Iris out of my head.¡±Luca sighed, taking a seat across from him.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got to talk to her, man. Keeping all this bottled up isn¡¯t helping anyone.¡±


    ¡°I know, I know. But every time I try, I just make things worse,¡± Ryan admitted, rubbing his temples.


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re not going to solve anything by drowning yourself in work or alcohol. You need to be honest with her, with yourself,¡± Luca said, his tone firm yet caring. Ryan nodded, knowing Luca was right. ¡°I¡¯ll try. Thanks for being here, Luca.¡±


    ¡°Anytime, man. That¡¯s what friends are for,¡± Luca replied, pping Ryan on the shoulder.


    ¡°By the way, Ryan have you noticed iris and ivy kinda look alike and have simr features?¡± Luca asked.


    ¡°Really? I haven¡¯t noticed it or had time to look at both of them, I don¡¯t think they look alike. Maybe you are just having symptoms of face blindness¡± Ryan replied, giving a lightugh.


    ¡°what am I even saying, maybe I¡¯m just assuming things, they don¡¯t look alike right?¡± he asked.


    ¡°No man they don¡¯t, they can¡¯t even stand each other,¡± he said.

 Chapter 34

    Ivy sat on her bed, the sketchbook open on herp. She couldn¡¯t believe the talent Iris possessed. An idea began to form in her mind, one that made her smile with a devious gleam in her eye.


    If she could somehow use these designs, she could gain the recognition she always craved in the fashion world. But first, she needed to find a way to make these designs her own, to im them without raising suspicion.


    She closed the sketchbook, her mind racing with ns. This was her chance to shine, and she wasn¡¯t going to let it slip through her fingers.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Iris, unaware of Ivy¡¯s deceitful ns, was in the kitchen preparing dinner. She was still thinking about Luca¡¯s offer and the possibility of bringing her designs to life. It felt like a glimmer of hope in an otherwise dark period of her life.


    Ivy woke up early, her mind still buzzing with her n. She needed to act quickly before anyone noticed the sketchbook was missing.


    She had spent the night studying Iris¡¯s sketches, marveling at their brilliance. She knew these designs could propel her into the spotlight she craved, but she needed a n.


    She dressed and left the house, heading to a friend¡¯s ce who was well-versed in fashion and design.¡±I need your help with something,¡± Ivy said, showing her friend the sketches.


    ¡°These are amazing, Ivy. Did you draw these?¡± her friend asked, eyes wide with admiration.¡±Yes, I did,¡± Ivy lied smoothly. ¡°I was hoping you could help me get them into production.¡±


    ¡°Of course! With designs like these, you¡¯ll be the talk of the fashion world,¡± her friend said, already making ns.


    Ivy smiled, feeling a surge of excitement. This was her moment, and she was determined to make the most of it, no matter the cost.


    Back at the house, Iris was beginning to notice something was off. She couldn¡¯t find her sketchbook and started to panic.


    She searched her room, but it was nowhere to be found. Her heart sank as she realized it was gone, and with it, her dreams seemed to slip further away.


    Ryan noticed her distress and came over. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Iris?¡±


    ¡°My sketchbook¡­ it¡¯s missing. All my designs are in there,¡± she said, tears welling up in her eyes.¡±We¡¯ll find it,¡± Ryan assured her. ¡°I¡¯ll help you look.¡±As they began searching the house, a sense of determination settled over Iris.


    She wasn¡¯t going to give up on her dreams, not now, not ever.


    The Kendrick Corporation headquarters buzzed with the usual hum of activity, but today held an unexpected twist.


    ***************************


    Mr. Kendrick, the formidable patriarch and CEO of thepany, had returned unannounced. His recent illness had taken a toll, and though everyone assumed he was still recovering at home, he had decided it was time to return to work


    Ryan was in his office, exploring a female worker, He had been preparing for the day he would take over thepany fully, believing that his father¡¯s recent illness would hasten that transition.


    Luca, Ryan¡¯s closest friend and confidant, was making his way to Ryan¡¯s office when he spotted Mr. Kendrick striding down the hallway. Shocked, Luca quickened his pace, hoping to warn Ryan. But Mr. Kendrick was already at the door.


    Mr. Kendrick, though in histe 50s, looked as if he had aged two decades due to his illness. He was a formidable figure, tall and imposing, with a sharp mind that had built the Kendrick empire from the ground up.


    He pushed open Ryan¡¯s office door, and the sound of moaning reached his ears. Disappointed, he turned and walked away, heading to his own office.


    Luca arrived at Ryan¡¯s office just as the door closed behind Mr. Kendrick.


    ¡°Ryan, your dad is around. He came in here and left shortly,¡± Luca said urgently.


    Ryan¡¯s eyes widened in panic. ¡°oh Shit, No, no. Why didn¡¯t you inform me earlier?¡± he demanded.


    ¡°No one knew he wasing. We just saw him. Before I could get to you, he was already here,¡± Luca exined. Ryan¡¯s face paled. ¡°Did he see¡­?¡± he asked, gesturing vaguely. Luca nodded grimly.


    ¡°Oh shit. Fuck, fuck, fuck,¡± Ryan cursed, mming his desk with his hands.


    The woman who had been with Ryan emerged from the adjoining room, adjusting her clothes and biting her lip.


    She looked at Ryan, confused by the sudden tension.¡±Get out. Now,¡± Ryan barked, his anger barely contained.


    The woman flinched, then hurried out of the office, clearly shaken.


    Ryan ran a hand through his ck hair, exasperated. He knew his father had always wanted him to prove himself responsible and mature.


    This incident would undoubtedly set back his hopes of taking over thepany anytime soon.


    ¡°Luca, what do I do now?¡± Ryan asked, his voice tinged with desperation.


    ¡°You need to face this head-on,¡± Luca said, his tone serious.


    Ryan nodded, trying topose himself. He took a deep breath and left his office, heading to his father¡¯s.


    The walk down the hallway felt like a mile, each step heavier than thest. When Ryan entered his father¡¯s office, he found Mr. Kendrick seated at his desk, staring out the window.


    The older man turned to look at him, disappointment etched in his features.


    ¡°Dad,¡± Ryan began, but Mr. Kendrick held up a hand, silencing him.


    ¡°Ryan, sit down,¡± Mr. Kendrick said, his voice firm but weary.


    Ryan obeyed, taking a seat across from his father.


    ¡°Do you know why I came in today?¡± Mr. Kendrick asked, his gaze piercing.


    ¡°No, I didn¡¯t know you wereing,¡± Ryan admitted, feeling like a child caught misbehaving.


    ¡°I came because I wanted to see how things were running in my absence.


    I wanted to see if you were ready to take over,¡± Mr. Kendrick said, his disappointment clear. ¡°What I saw¡­ Ryan, how can I trust you with thispany?¡±Ryan felt a surge of guilt and frustration.


    ¡°Dad, I¡¯ve been working hard. I¡¯ve put everything into thispany.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s not what I¡¯m seeing from here, Working hard is one thing, Ryan.


    But responsibility, maturity¡­ Those are things you still need to prove. I thought getting married might help you grow, but it seems I was wrong,¡± Mr. Kendrick said, shaking his head. Ryan¡¯s mind raced.


    He knew he needed to say something, anything, to convince his father. ¡°Dad, I know I messed up. But I¡¯m learning. I¡¯mmitted to making things right.¡±Mr. Kendrick sighed, taking off his sses and rubbing his temples.


    ¡°Ryan, I want to believe you. But actions speak louder than words. You need to show me you¡¯re ready, not just say it.¡±Ryan nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.


    ¡°I will, Dad. I promise.¡±Mr. Kendrick leaned back in his chair, looking older and more tired than Ryan had ever seen him. ¡°I hope so, Ryan. For the sake of thispany and our family.¡±


    Ryan left his father¡¯s office, his mind racing with thoughts of how to prove himself. He returned to his office, where Luca was waiting.


    ¡°How did it go?¡± Luca asked concern etched on his face.


    ¡°Not well,¡± Ryan admitted. ¡°I need to step up. I need to prove to him that I¡¯m ready.¡±


    ¡°You can do it, Ryan. Just focus and show him what you¡¯re capable of,¡± Luca said, offering his support as he patted his shoulder softly.


    Ryan nodded, determination hardening his features. He knew he had a long road ahead, but he was ready to take it on.


    Ryan sat at his desk, going over thepany¡¯s financial reports. He knew he needed to focus and prove himself, but his thoughts kept drifting to Iris.


    He had been so wrapped up in his issues that he hadn¡¯t given her the attention she deserved. He picked up his phone and dialed her number.


    ¡°Iris, can we talk tonight?¡± he asked when she answered.¡±Of course,¡± Iris replied, surprised but hopeful. ¡°I¡¯ll be home.¡±Great. I¡¯ll see you then,¡± Ryan said, hanging up.


    He knew he needed to make things right with Iris, she wasn¡¯t who he thought she was, not just for the sake of his marriage but for his own growth and maturity. It was time to take responsibility and prove that he was ready to lead.

 Chapter 35

    Ryan returned home, his mind filled with thoughts of how to approach the conversation with Iris.


    He found her in the living room, waiting for him.


    ¡°Hi,¡± he said, sitting down next to her.


    ¡°Hi,¡± she replied, her eyes searching his.¡±Iris, I know I haven¡¯t been the best husband. I¡¯ve been so focused on thepany that I¡¯ve neglected you,¡± Ryan began, his voice sincere.


    ¡°I understand, Ryan. But we need to work on this together,¡± Iris said, her tone gentle but firm.¡±I agree. And I want to start now,¡± Ryan said, taking her hand. ¡°I want to be better, for you and us.¡±Iris smiled, a flicker of hope in her eyes.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°I believe in you, Ryan. We can do this together.¡±As they sat there, Ryan stretched out to hold her hands as he looked deeply into her eyes, lost in each other¡¯s eyes. Ryan stretched his head forward bit by bit trying to get to Iris¡¯s.


    He got so close they were an inch apart, Ryan tilted his head slightly as his lips copsed coldly on her¡¯s causing a spark between them, Ryan kissed her softly, taking her lips into his slowly as he munched on them, immediately Iris felt an itch on her own part and came to her senses as she disengages from the kiss.


    ¡°Errrrh, uh-m, I will¡­be heading to my room now¡±. Iris said with her words shuttered.


    ¡°Uh sure¡± Ryan replied, unable to say another word.


    Iris stood up and left, walking across the hallway like she was confused and drunk.


    She went Into her room shut the door behind her, and smiled gracefully doing a happy dance in her head.


    She had never felt like this before, his touch tingles every part of her, sending a cold sensation like water running down her body from a shower.


    Ryan felt a renewed sense of purpose. He was ready to prove himself, not just to his father, but to Iris and himself. It was time to step up and be the man he was meant to be.


    Weeks Later*******


    Iris, tired of the mansion, decided to get a job. She was a stripper before Ryan came up with the proposal but she wasn¡¯t going to go back to it, that was the purpose she agreed to the marriage in the first ce so she could stop being a stripper.


    She knew what she had to pass through and experience in the hands of the male customers at the club.


    shback**********


    She remembered the day she first walked into the club, introduced to Mama Pee Pee by Skr.


    Mama Pee Pee was an imposing woman, with a no-nonsense attitude and a keen eye for talent.


    She couldn¡¯t understand what kind of job Skr had brought her to.¡±Mama Pee, this is Iris,¡± Skr introduced her to the manager.


    Mama Peepee looked Iris up and down, assessing her. ¡°Hmm. You¡¯re a pretty one,¡± she said, puffing on her cigarette. ¡°But do you have what it takes to work here?¡±Iris stammered, ¡°I-I don¡¯t understand, what kind of job is this?¡±


    Mama Peepee and Skr exchanged nces. Skr took a deep breath. ¡°Iris, this is a club. A strip club. We entertain the clients.¡±Iris¡¯s eyes widened in horror. ¡°A strip club? Skr, I can¡¯t do this!¡±


    ¡°You need the money, right?¡± Skr said softly. ¡°I know it¡¯s not what you expected, but it¡¯s good money. Enough to help your mom.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know,¡± Iris said, her mind reeling.


    Mama Peepee stepped forward. ¡°Listen, darling. It¡¯s not easy, but it pays well. You need to be confident and know how to handle yourself. If you can do that, you¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Iris looked at Skr, who nodded encouragingly. ¡°I¡¯ll be with you every step of the way. We can do this together.¡±Taking a deep breath, Iris nodded.


    Skr took her to the changing room. The room was well-lit and spacious, with hangers and clothes stands filled with various costumes.


    Different colors and sizes of lingerie hung neatly, alongside fur hats, belts, whips, patent leather, clear, Mary Jane stripping shoes, knee-high boots, ankle boots, and thigh-high boots, all arranged meticulously on a shoe rack.


    A dressing table with a chair was adorned with an array of makeup items, and the white-painted walls enhanced the room¡¯s brightness. In one corner was a bathroom, and in the opposite corner, was a storage space for unnecessary items.


    Skr had been excited for Iris. ¡°Wee to the club, girl! This is where the magic happens,¡± she said with a grin.


    Iris was far from thrilled. ¡°Stripping, really Sky?¡± she asked, her voice a mix of disbelief and frustration.


    Skr¡¯s face fell slightly. ¡°I¡¯m sorry I never told you, but you never asked,¡± she replied defensively.


    ¡°Don¡¯t even do that right now,¡± Iris yelled. ¡°I can¡¯t do this. I can¡¯t.¡±With that, Iris stormed out of the club, heading back home.


    ¡°Iris, wait! Iris,e back!¡± Skr called after her, but Iris didn¡¯t stop.


    Mama Pee Pee walked in, her eyebrows raised. ¡°What¡¯s going on? Where did she run off to?¡± she asked, looking at Skr for answers.


    Skr sighed, already changing into her costume. ¡°She just needs some time. I¡¯ll handle it.¡±


    Iris waved a taxi and headed home, her mind raced with thoughts of her mother and the dire situation they were in.


    ¡°Did you have to run off like that?¡± her subconscious questioned. ¡°Not like you have anything better to do. Your mom¡¯s life is at stake here,¡± her mind continued. ¡°Do the right thing.¡±


    Hot tears streamed down her face. ¡°Why is my life so different and full of uncertainties? Of all jobs, who would have thought I would opt for a stripping job?¡± she thought bitterly.


    ¡°Is everything alright ma¡¯am?¡± the cab driver asked,  sniffing in the mucusing out from her nose as she wiped her tears with her hands. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Please stop the car,¡± she said to the driver.


    Immediately the car came to a halt, she got out, paid the fare, and gged down another cab to take her back to the club.¡±I have to do what I have to do for Mom,¡± she whispered, taking a deep breath before walking back inside.


    The club was dimly lit, with soft music ying in the background as she got in.


    The strippers swung their hips seductively to the rhythm, while men in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and even 60s watched intently.


    Iris found a seat at the far end of the club, taking in the atmosphere and observing how the strippers performed.


    She watched as two strippers were beckoned to a round table by some men.


    They gracefully walked down from their poles and cat-walked to the table, sitting and spreading their legs wide open for the men while moving their bodies to the music.


    One man, likely in his 40s, took out some money and pped it on one of the stripper¡¯s butts. Iris¡¯s eyes found Skr on stage. Skr moved with confidence and grace, clearly a favorite among the crowd.


    Her body swayed rhythmically, and the audience loved her performance. Iris remained in her seat, observing and trying to understand the world she was about to enter.


    As the night wore on, Iris found herself nodding off at her table. She was exhausted from the emotional turmoil and the unfamiliar environment.


    A worker eventually woke her up, and she rubbed her eyes, trying to shake off the sleep. She noticed that Skr had changed and was about to leave.


    ¡°Skr!¡± Iris called out, rushing to her. Skr turned, surprised. ¡°Iris, you¡¯re still here? I thought you had gone home.¡±


    ¡°I came back and watched everything you were doing. I don¡¯t have an option, so I¡¯m in,¡± Iris said with determination.


    Skr¡¯s face lit up. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s great! I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t let you in on what I was doing all this while.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s okay, Sky. Now I know, so let¡¯s get to work,¡± Iris replied. The two friends left the club together, ready to face whatever challengesy ahead.


    The next evening, Iris returned to the club with Skr.


    This time, she was ready. Mama Pee Pee greeted her with a nod of approval.¡±Wee back, Iris.


    Ready to start?¡± she asked.¡±Yes, I am,¡± Iris replied, her voice steady.


    Skr took Iris back to the changing room. ¡°Let¡¯s get you ready for your first night,¡± she said, helping her pick out an outfit.


    Iris chose a simple yet elegant ck lingerie set, paired with knee-high boots. Skr helped her with the makeup and a wig, teaching her some tricks to enhance her features under the dim club lights.


    As they were getting ready, Iris felt a mix of nervousness and determination. ¡°I can¡¯t believe I¡¯m doing this,¡± she said, looking at herself in the mirror.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be great, Iris. Just remember, it¡¯s all about confidence,¡± Skr said, giving her a reassuring smile.


    The first performance was nerve-wracking. Iris¡¯s heart pounded as she stepped onto the stage. The music started, and she began to move, trying to mimic what she had seen the previous night. At first, her movements were stiff, but as the music flowed, she started to rx, letting the rhythm guide her.


    The men watched her intently, some cheering and pping. Iris felt a strange sense of empowerment.


    She was doing this for her mother, and that thought gave her strength. After her performance, she joined Skr at one of the tables. ¡°You did great, Iris!¡± Skr said, handing her a drink.¡±Thanks, Sky. It wasn¡¯t as bad as I thought,¡± Iris admitted.¡±You¡¯ll get used to it. And you¡¯ll get better with time,¡± Skr assured her.


    As the night went on, Iris observed more of the club¡¯s dynamics. She saw how the girls interacted with the clients, the subtle negotiations for private dances and sex, and the way money flowed freely.


    It was a different world, one she was slowly bing a part of.

 Chapter 36

    Over the next few weeks, Iris became morefortable in her new role. She learned the ropes quickly, thanks to Skr¡¯s guidance.


    The two of them became even closer, bonding over their shared experiences. One night, as they were getting ready for their performances, Mama Pee Pee called Iris into her office.¡±Iris, you¡¯ve been doing well.


    But I have a challenge for you,¡± she said, her tone serious.


    ¡°What is it, Mama Pee Pee?¡± Iris asked, intrigued.


    A special client ising in tonight. He¡¯s a big spender, and he likes new faces. I want you to give him a private dance,¡± Mama Pee Pee said.


    Iris felt a surge of anxiety. ¡°A private dance? I¡¯ve never done one before.¡±


    ¡°I know. But I think you¡¯re ready. And it¡¯ll be good for you. Trust me,¡± Mama Pee Pee said, her eyes softening.


    Iris took a deep breath. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    The night passed in a blur. Iris performed on stage, her movements more confident than ever. Then came the moment she had been dreading. She was called to the private room where the special client was waiting.


    The room was dimly lit, with plush couches and soft music ying in the background. The client, a man in his 40s, sat in one of the chairs, a ss of whiskey in his hand.


    ¡°Hello,¡± Iris said, trying to keep her voice steady.¡±Hello, beautiful,¡± the man replied, his eyes scanning her from head to toe. Iris began to dance, letting the music guide her movements.


    She tried to forget her nerves, focusing on the task at hand. The man watched her intently, asionally slipping money into her garter. As the dance went on, Iris started to rx. She found a rhythm, a flow, that made her feel more confident.


    The man seemed pleased, and when the dance was over, he handed her a generous tip.


    ¡°You¡¯re good, sweetheart. What if we take it further?¡± he said with a smile.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you mean by that s¡­sir,¡± Iris said.


    ¡°Well I think you do silly girl¡± he chuckled trying to touch her pussy.


    She flinched immediately. I¡¯m only a stripper sir, not a prostitute¡± she said in a sharp tone.


    The man gave a funnyugh, ¡°what¡¯s the difference between both?¡± Nowe and do me dirty¡± he smirked.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Sir, I can¡¯t,¡± she said and left the room, her heart pounding.


    Back in the changing room, Skr hugged her. ¡°I heard you did great! How was it?¡±


    ¡°It was¡­ intense. But I did it,¡± Iris said, feeling a sense of aplishment.¡±See? I knew you could,¡± Skr said, beaming with pride.


    As the weeks turned into months, Iris found herself growing morefortable in her new role. She was no longer the timid girl who had walked into the club that first night.


    She had found a strength within herself that she didn¡¯t know existed. She continued to dance, earning more and more each night.


    The money she made went towards her mother¡¯s medical bills, and slowly, things started to improve at home. Iris also started to think about her future.


    One night Iris stood backstage, adjusting her red lingerie. The silky material clung to her curves, highlighting her hourss figure.


    Her medium-sized breasts were perfectly framed by thece, and her long, straight legs seemed to go on forever, entuated by the 8-inch heels she wore.


    Her blonde wig cascaded down her back, and her skin glistened with ayer of oil, giving her an almost ethereal glow. She was the epitome of perfection.


    Skr peeked around the corner, her eyes wide with excitement. ¡°You ready, Iris?¡± Iris nodded, her angelic smile masking the nerves bubbling inside her. ¡°Yeah, as ready as I¡¯ll ever be.¡±


    ¡°You look amazing. Go out there and show them what you¡¯ve got,¡± Skr encouraged, giving her a reassuring squeeze on the shoulder.


    As Iris stepped onto the stage, the crowd erupted in cheers. Men of all ages and backgrounds filled the room, their eyes glued to her every move. She moved with grace and confidence, every step a calcted dance.


    The room seemed to hold its breath, captivated by her presence. She swayed her hips seductively, her movements fluid and enticing. Men reached out, trying to touch her, but she skillfully avoided their grasp, keeping just out of reach.


    Mama Pee Pee had advised her to loosen up, but Iris held firm. To her, this was strictly business. She wasn¡¯t here to form any connections, just to make money and leave.


    As she finished her routine, the crowd roared with approval. Dor bills rained down on her, and she picked them up with a grateful smile.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Backstage, Skr hugged her tightly. ¡°You were amazing out there! They love you!¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Sky. It¡¯s still a bit surreal,¡± Iris admitted, her heart still racing from the performance.¡±You¡¯ll get used to it. Just keep doing what you¡¯re doing,¡± Skr said with a wink.


    Despite the offers and propositions from countless men, Iris always turned them down. She believed in a future where her prince charming would rescue her from this life.


    Until then, she would keep her distance, focusing solely on her performances. But everything changed the night Ryan walked into the club. His eyes met hers from across the room, and there was an immediate, undeniable connection.


    She left the club that night, never to return, and began a new chapter with Ryan.


    End of shback***************


    The mansion was eerily quiet. Iris wandered the halls, feeling the weight of solitude pressing down on her.


    Since leaving the club, her life had taken a different turn. Ryan was often away, engrossed in work, leaving Iris with only asional conversations with Sarah, the housekeeper, to keep herpany.


    One day, as she was scrolling through her phone, she came across an advertisement for Bain Fashion House. Her heart skipped a beat. Fashion had always been her passion, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity.


    She quickly submitted her application, her fingers trembling with excitement. She didn¡¯t tell Ryan, thinking it unnecessary until she knew if she got the job.


    Weeks passed, and Iris waited anxiously for feedback. One morning, she received an email from Bain Fashion House. Her application was under review. She smiled, feeling a glimmer of hope.


    Meanwhile, at the office, Ryan was busy sorting through files when his phone rang. It was Be.


    He picked up, slightly annoyed at the interruption.


    ¡°Ryan, you promised we¡¯d have lunch,¡± Be reminded him, her tone light and cheerful.


    ¡°Did I?¡± Ryan asked, trying to recall the conversation.


    ¡°Yes, you did. Come on, you need a break. Meet me at the restaurant,¡± Be insisted. Ryan sighed.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be there.¡±He arrived at the five-star restaurant, its elegant decor and breathtaking view setting a perfect scene.


    Be was already seated, her eyes lighting up when she saw him.


    ¡°Ryan! It¡¯s so good to see you,¡± she said, standing up to hug him.


    ¡°Good to see you too, Be,¡± Ryan replied, sitting down opposite her.


    ¡°How have you been?¡± Be asked, her eyes searching his face. ¡°How¡¯s work? And how¡¯s Iris?¡±


    ¡°Work is hectic, as always. Iris is fine,¡± Ryan said, his tone neutral.


    Be leaned in, her voice softening. ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re happy, Ryan? You know you can always talk to me, right?¡±


    Ryan hesitated. ¡°Yeah, I know. Thanks, Be.¡±


    ¡°So, what¡¯s up with you? Why did you call for lunch?¡± he asked, trying to steer the conversation away from himself.¡±I¡¯m sorry if I made you ufortable.


    I just wanted to check up on you, see how you¡¯re doing,¡± Be exined, her eyes sincere.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, Be. I was just surprised,¡± Ryan said, his expression softening.


    They continued their meal, reminiscing about old times and catching up.


    As the meal drew to a close, Ryan kept ncing at his watch. Be noticed.


    ¡°I guess you want to run back to your wife, please just stay a bit longer,¡± she pleaded. Ryan sighed, reluctantly agreeing. ¡°Alright, but just a few more minutes.


    ¡°Be smiled. She ordered his favorite wine. ¡± Let¡¯s make a toast to catching up after a long time.¡± She said as she opened the wine.


    ¡°No, Be, not today. I need to head back home,¡± Ryan protested.¡±Please, Ryan, it¡¯s just a toast.


    Since you got married, we haven¡¯t had time to talk and catch up like this,¡± Be insisted.


    Reluctantly, Ryan raised his ss. ¡°Alright, a toast.¡±They clinked sses, and Ryan downed his drink.


    He was about to leave when Be poured another ss. ¡°Let¡¯s toast to your dad, for his recovery.¡±Ryan gave her a hard stare but raised his ss again. ¡°To Dad.


    ¡°Be poured yet another ss, pushing it towards him. ¡°One more, Ryan, for old times¡¯ sake.¡±Ryan sighed, taking the ss. ¡°Fine, just one more.¡±


    ¡°Two more Ryan, that¡¯s it, just two more,¡± she said with pleading eyes.


    After two more sses, Ryan found himself feeling lightheaded.


    He attempted to stand but wobbled, copsing back into his chair.¡±Are you okay, Ryan?¡± Be asked, her voice feigning concern.


    Ryan mumbled incoherently, trying to form words. ¡°I¡­ I need to go¡­¡±

 Chapter 37

    Take it easy, Ryan. I¡¯ll take you home,¡± Be said, helping him to his feet.


    She guided him to her car, his steps unsteady. As she drove, Ryan mumbled gibberishly.


    ¡°Iris¡­ I need¡­ to be home¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Ryan. I¡¯m taking care of you,¡± Be said, her voice smooth and reassuring a smile could be seen stered on her face.


    They arrived at Be¡¯s house. She helped him inside, guiding him to her bedroom.


    She was ted, finally getting what she wanted. Ryan was too intoxicated to resist.


    Be quickly showered and changed into a sexy nightie. She returned to find Ryan barely conscious on her bed. She carefully undressed him, taking a moment to admire his physique.


    Then, shey down beside him, snapping a few pictures with her phone to capture the moment. As shey next to him, a satisfied smile spread across her face.


    She finally had Ryan where she wanted him. Now, all she needed was for him to wake up and realize what had happened.


    Bey back on the pillows, a satisfied smirk on her face. The previous night had gone exactly as she had nned.


    She had made sure that Ryan had released everything inside her, knowing the implications. As dawn broke, she slipped out of bed, careful not to wake Ryan, and prepared a tray of breakfast, eggs, toast, and freshly squeezed orange juice.


    She ced the tray on the nightstand and sat back, waiting for him to wake up.


    Ryan stirred, his eyes blinking open to the unfamiliar surroundings.


    Panic set in as he jerked upright, scanning the room. ¡°What is going on here?¡± he demanded.


    Be turned, her smile widening. ¡°Hi honey, you¡¯re awake! I made you breakfast. Sit up so you can eat.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°What am I doing here, Be?¡±


    ¡°Oh,e on, Ryan,¡± Be purred. ¡°We had a wonderful night together. I didn¡¯t know you were this good in bed¡­ Oh gosh, I have been missing out. You¡¯re a bad, bad boy,¡± she added, rubbing his chest as she bit her lip seductively.


    Ryan recoiled, pushing her hands off his chest. ¡°What have you done?¡± he yelled.


    Be¡¯s smile faded slightly, but she kept herposure. ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything, Ryan. We just had a great time together. Can¡¯t you see? You enjoyed every bit of itst night.


    You kept screaming my name.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Be, Be, Be, what have you done?¡± Ryan ground his teeth his voice filled with devastation as he grabbed her neck, almost strangling her.


    Be gasped, struggling to breathe. ¡°I only did what should have been done long ago, Ryan.¡±Realizing what he was doing, Ryan released her and stumbled out of bed, quickly picking up his clothes and getting dressed.


    Without another word, he stormed out of the house, mming the door behind him. Momentster, he returned, his face a mask of fury. ¡°Let this stay between us. I hope you understand,¡± he growled before leaving again.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    As Ryan drove home, his mind was a whirlwind of regret and anger. He cursed himself for ever picking up Be¡¯s call, for going to dinner with her.


    He felt an overwhelming sense of guilt, though he wasn¡¯t sure why.


    When he finally reached home, he headed straight for his room but collided with Iris in the hallway.¡± Are you blind? Didn¡¯t you see meing?¡± he barked, not waiting for a reply as he pushed past her and stormed into his room.


    Iris stood there, stunned and worried. She had tried reaching out to him since the previous day, but his number hadn¡¯t connected.


    He hadn¡¯t called or returned her messages, and now he appeared this morning, full of rage.


    What had happened? Shaking her head, Iris continued to her room from the kitchen, her thoughts swirling.


    She saw missed calls on her phone and checked to find they were from Skr. Her heart skipped a beat.


    Why had Skr called? Was everything alright? She dialed Skr¡¯s number, her hands trembling as she paced her room. Skr picked up on the third ring.


    ¡°Hey, Iris. I was starting to think you were avoiding me.¡±


    ¡°Skr, what¡¯s going on? Why did you call? How is Mum?¡± Iris asked, trying to keep her voice steady.


    Skr sighed. ¡°I just wanted to check in on you. It¡¯s been a while since west talked, and I was worried, Mum is fine, she always asks after you but I tell her you are always busy with work and all of that¡±.


    How are you holding up?¡±Iris let out a breath she didn¡¯t realize she was holding. ¡°I¡¯m okay, I guess. Things have been¡­plicated.¡±


    ¡°Complicated how?¡± Skr¡¯s tone was gentle but probing.¡±Ryan has been acting strange. He didn¡¯te homest night, and when he did this morning, he was furious. I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on,¡± Iris confessed.


    Skr paused before speaking again. ¡°Do you think it has anything to do with work?¡±Iris¡¯s heart sank. ¡°Work?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I just have a feeling. You should talk to Ryan,¡± Skr suggested.


    Iris nodded, even though Skr couldn¡¯t see her. ¡°I¡¯ll try. Thanks, Sky. I needed this.¡±


    ¡°Anytime, Iris. Take care of yourself, okay?¡±


    ¡°I will. Bye, Sky.¡±


    Meanwhile, Iris was still waiting for a response from Bain Fashion House.


    Her phone buzzed, and she saw an email notification. With bated breath, she opened it.¡±Congrattions, Ms. Parker. We are pleased to inform you that your application has been epted.


    Please contact us to schedule an interview.¡±Iris¡¯s heart soared. This was the break she had been hoping for. She quickly dialed the number provided, arranging an interview for the following week.


    When Ryan finally came out of his room,  he found Iris in the living room, a broad smile on her face. ¡°Ryan! Guess what? I got an interview with Bain Fashion House!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great, Iris,¡± Ryan said, forcing a smile, though his mind was still clouded with the events of the previous night.


    ¡°I know, right? This could be the start of something amazing,¡± Iris said, her excitement palpable.


    Ryan nodded, trying to push his guilt aside. ¡°I¡¯m happy for you, Iris¡±.


    ¡°Ryan, are you okay?¡± Iris asked with a concerned look.


    ¡°Yeah I¡¯m fine, but work stress that all¡±. He replied.


    Ryan went into the kitchen came out and headed back to his room.


    He sat on the edge of his bed, his head in his hands. The events of the previous night yed over and over in his mind.


    How had he let this happen? The guilt gnawed at him, making it hard to think straight.


    A soft knock on the door brought him back to reality.¡±Ryan? Can we talk?¡± Iris¡¯s voice was tentative.


    He looked up, his expression hardening. ¡°What do you want, Iris?¡±


    ¡°I just want to understand what¡¯s going on. You¡¯ve been acting strange, and I don¡¯t know why,¡± she said, stepping into the room.


    Ryan sighed, running a hand through his hair. ¡°It¡¯s nothing you need to worry about.¡±


    ¡°How can you say that? You¡¯re my husband, Ryan. If something is bothering you, it bothers me too,¡± Iris said, her voice breaking slightly.


    Iris sat close to him and held his hands into hers as she gave them a light squeeze, she drew her face closer to his and looked into his eyes.


    Ryan tried to avoid her gaze but she held his face still.


    ¡°I know what is going on,¡± she said.


    ¡°You do¡±? Ryan asked, obviously scared.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s not my fault and¡­¡±


    ¡°Shhhhhhh, Iris silenced him by cing a finger on his lips, it¡¯s okay I understand¡±. She said.


    Ryan got lost looking at her eyes as they drew close to each other and could feel their breath on each other, their lips crashed on each other as the drive was passionate, hungrily devouring each other¡¯s lips.


    It grew so intense that their clothes began flying around the room, as they took it to the next phase on the bed, skin to skin causing a spark between them, his touch was intense, and her body was divine.


    He nted soft and tender kisses on her neck, and he munched a little on her earlobe, causing a moan from her. ¡°Arhhhhhh, ohhh¡±.


    He trailed the kisses down to her belly button, he cupped her breast as she ced his mouth on it, sucking it, he took his mouth to the second and continued sucking.


    He ced his fingers on the entrance of her pussy and felt wetness, she was already dripping off her juice, with his cock already set to prate, he dug into her, and Iris felt the pleasure as she held the sheet in a tight fist.


    Ryan¡¯s thrust this time was slow and intense, full of passion and pleasure,


    The magic between them was unexinable, no one knew their bodies better, it wasn¡¯t the first sex but they had the best time of their life.

 Chapter 38

    Be, on the other hand, was basking in her triumph. She knew Ryan would be back.


    He had to be. She had made sure of that.


    Her phone buzzed, and she saw a message from her friend, Anna.


    ¡°Did you finally do it?¡± Anna asked.


    ¡°Yes, and it was perfect. He¡¯lle around. Be replied smiling.


    ¡°Be, are you sure about this?¡±Anna asked.


    ¡°Absolutely. He just needs time to see that we¡¯re meant to be together.¡± Be said giggling.


    ¡°Good luck. You know what you¡¯re doing.¡± Anna said Anna has been her friend for a long time, and she knew about Ryan and Be¡¯s obsession with him.


    Be already told Anna how she nned on having a one-night stand with Ryan. And she finally did.


    Be smiled, confident in her n. She just needed to be patient.


    *******************************


    Iris stood in the garden one serene morning, taking in the picturesque view.


    The vibrant trees and colorful flowers swayed gently in the breeze, creating a scene of perfect tranquility.


    Yet, her mind was far from peaceful. A lot had been happening in her life, and though it had only been six months into her contract marriage with Ryan, it felt like a century.


    ¡°I don¡¯t even know if I should be happy or sad anymore,¡± she murmured to herself, lost in thought.


    The weight of her circumstances seemed heavier each day, and the boundaries between her feelings for Ryan and the obligations of their contract grew increasingly blurred.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Her phone rang, pulling her back to reality. She nced at the caller ID and saw it was Skr.


    ¡°Hi Sky,¡± Iris greeted, her voice hurried. ¡°How are you doing? How¡¯s Mum?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Iris, and Mum is fine too,¡± Skr replied almost immediately. ¡°It¡¯s just that¡­¡±


    ¡°Just what, Sky? Talk to me,¡± Iris urged, her heart racing.¡±Calm down, Iris,¡± Skr said. ¡°It¡¯s just that Mum keeps asking about you. She wants toe see you.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Iris exhaled, realizing she had been holding her breath. ¡°Can I speak to her?¡±


    ¡°Sure, hold on,¡± Skr said.


    A momentter, Iris heard her mother¡¯s voice. ¡°Hello, sweetheart. How are you doing? It¡¯s been so long. Don¡¯t you want toe see me? Why is your job taking so much of your time?¡±


    ¡°I would love toe visit you, Mum,¡± Iris replied, feeling a pang of guilt. ¡°But work has been so demanding.


    ¡°You know where I live isn¡¯t mine. It¡¯s my boss¡¯s ce, and it¡¯s not very convenient for you toe over. But I promise to visit you this weekend.


    ¡°Oh, darling, that would be wonderful,¡± her mother said, her voice filled with joy. ¡°I miss you so much.¡±


    ¡°There was a pause on the line, and Iris felt the tension.


    ¡°Hello? Mom? Are you there?¡± she asked.


    Skr¡¯s voice came back on the line. ¡°She fell asleep, Iris. She does that often now. We need to take her to the hospital for proper care and close monitoring. It¡¯s best for her.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Sky. I¡¯ll arrange for that. See you soon. Thank you for everything,¡± Iris said, feeling the weight of responsibility.


    With a sigh, she ended the call and turned around, only to be startled by Ryan standing behind her.¡±


    And why won¡¯t you allow your mother toe visit?¡± he asked, his voiceced with curiosity and a hint of reproach.


    Iris¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°Ryan, you scared me! How long have you been standing there?¡±


    ¡°Long enough,¡± Ryan replied, stepping closer. ¡°I heard the whole conversation. Why don¡¯t you want your mother to visit?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯splicated,¡± Iris said, looking away. ¡°This ce isn¡¯t mine, and I didn¡¯t want to impose on you or make things awkward.¡±Ryan frowned.


    ¡°Iris, this is your home too, at least for now. You don¡¯t have to feel like you¡¯re imposing. If your mother wants to visit, she¡¯s wee here.¡±Iris felt a lump in her throat. ¡°It¡¯s not that simple, Ryan. My mother is very traditional and I don¡¯t want to disappoint her.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s expression softened. ¡°Iris, I understand. But you don¡¯t have to handle this alone. We¡¯ll figure it out together.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Ryan,¡± Iris said, feeling a mix of gratitude and confusion. ¡°I appreciate that.¡±


    As Iris stood there, afortable silence settled between them. She nced up at Ryan, searching his face for any sign of resentment.


    Instead, she found understanding and something else she couldn¡¯t quite ce.


    Iris and Ryan walked back into the mansion quietly.


    ¡°Are you hungry? I made some food,¡± Iris said.¡±Actually, I¡¯m very hungry and could eat a whole being,¡± Ryan replied, and they both startedughing.


    Iris headed straight to the kitchen and asked the maid to serve the food she had made.


    She then went to sit with Ryan at the dining table. Sarah, the maid, came out from the kitchen and served them the food.


    ¡°Looks amazing. I¡¯m sure I¡¯ll eat non-stop,¡± Ryan said, chuckling.¡±Stop messing around, Ryan,¡± Iris said with a lightugh.


    Suddenly, Iris remembered something and quickly rushed up to her room after dishing out Ryan¡¯s food.


    She opened her drawer but couldn¡¯t find what she was looking for. She checked her wardrobe, flipping through her dresses and boxes, then checked the table in her room and the second drawer.


    Finally, she found it. But as she brought it out, she heard a scream from downstairs.


    Iris¡¯s heart leaped into her throat. She rushed downstairs, her mind racing. When she reached the dining room, she was met with a horrifying sight.

 Chapter 39

    Ryan was on the floor, blood trickling from his mouth.


    Iris screamed, her voice echoing through the mansion, as she rushed to him.


    ¡°Ryan! Ryan! No, no, no! Please wake up!¡± she cried, kneeling beside him. ¡°You were fine just a moment ago.


    What happened to him?¡± she asked, her voice trembling with desperation. Sarah, the maid, was pacing around, tears streaming down her face.


    ¡°Sarah! Get the ambnce! Call the security now!¡± Irismanded, her voice breaking.


    Sarah rushed to the phone and dialed for an ambnce. The wait seemed interminable, but finally, the ambnce arrived.


    Paramedics hurriedly entered the mansion, assessing Ryan¡¯s condition. They lifted him onto a stretcher and whisked him away to the ambnce, with Iris by his side, her heart pounding.


    At the hospital, Ryan was rushed into the emergency room. Iris could only watch as the doctors and nurses worked frantically, trying to stabilize him.


    She was left in the waiting area, her mind spinning, her heart aching. She couldn¡¯t stop crying, confused about what had happened and what could have caused Ryan¡¯s sudden copse.


    Before she knew it, Mrs. Rose, Ryan¡¯s mother, Ivy, his sister, and Mr. Kendrick, his father, arrived at the hospital. Ivy, her eyes zing with anger, stormed towards Iris.


    ¡°What happened to my brother?!¡± Ivy shouted. ¡°You¡¯re evil! If anything happens to him, I¡¯ll kill you!¡±


    Mrs. Rose, her face pale and stricken with worry, joined in. ¡°How could you let this happen to him?¡± she demanded.


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know,¡± Iris stammered, tears streaming down her face. ¡°He was fine, and then¡­ he just copsed.


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick stepped in, his voice firm but calm. ¡°Enough. This isn¡¯t helping. Let¡¯s focus on Ryan.¡±


    After what felt like an eternity, Dr. Parker emerged from the emergency room, his face grave but with a glimmer of relief.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s condition is critical, but thank God he¡¯s out of immediate danger.¡±


    ¡°What happened to him?¡± Mrs. Rose asked, her voice trembling.


    Dr. Parker hesitated, then spoke. ¡°It appears Ryan was poisoned. We¡¯ve stabilized him for now, but we¡¯ll need to monitor him closely.¡±


    ¡°Poisoned?!¡± they all yelled in unison, their voices echoing through the sterile hospital corridor.


    ¡°How could this happen?¡± Ivy demanded, ring at Iris. ¡°Who would poison my brother?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Iris said, her voice barely above a whisper. ¡°I would never harm him.


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes hardened. ¡°Get out, Iris. Stay away from him.¡±


    ¡°We need answers. Who could have done this?¡±


    Dr. Parker interrupted gently. ¡°We¡¯ll run more tests and investigate the source of the poisoning. For now, he¡¯s stable, but we must find out what he ingested.¡±


    As they waited for more news, the atmosphere in the hospital was tense.


    Ivy sat with her head in her hands, Mrs. Rose paced back and forth, and Mr. Kendrick stood silently, deep in thought.


    Iris remained seated, her eyes red from crying, her heart heavy with worry and guilt.


    Hours passed, and finally, Dr. Parker returned with more information. ¡°We¡¯ve identified the poison,¡± he said. ¡°It¡¯s a rare substance, not something you¡¯de across by ident.¡±


    ¡°Does that mean someone did this intentionally?¡± Mr. Kendrick asked, his voice low and dangerous.¡±It appears so,¡± Dr. Parker confirmed.


    ¡°We¡¯ll need to notify the authorities and start an investigation.¡±Iris felt a chill run down her spine. Who could have wanted to harm Ryan? She thought about their recent interactions, trying to recall any suspicious behavior or strange urrences.


    The police arrived shortly after, and Detective Harris took charge of the investigation. He questioned everyone, starting with Iris.


    ¡°Mrs. Iris, can you tell me about the events leading up to Mr. Ryan¡¯s copse?¡± he asked, his tone professional but probing.


    Iris recounted the evening, her voice shaking as she described the dinner and her brief trip upstairs. ¡°I was only gone for a few minutes,¡± she said, her voice breaking. ¡°When I came back, he was on the floor.¡±


    Iris was thoroughly investigated, facing usatory questions.


    ¡°Why did you make the food?¡± Detective Harris asked, his tone sharp.¡±I always cook for Ryan,¡± Iris replied, her voice shaking.


    ¡°There was nothing unusual about it.¡±


    ¡°But someone introduced poison into the meal,¡± the detective pressed. ¡°Are you saying you have no idea how it happened?¡±


    ¡°I swear, I don¡¯t know,¡± Iris said, tears streaming down her face. ¡°I would never harm Ryan.¡±


    Detective Harris nodded, jotting down notes. ¡°Did you notice anything unusual about the food or drink?¡±


    ¡°No, everything seemed normal,¡± Iris replied, her mind racing.


    ¡°Sarah, our maid, served the food. She was with us the whole time.¡±The detective turned to Sarah, who was still visibly shaken.


    ¡°Did you see anything suspicious, Sarah?¡±Sarah shook her head, tears streaming down her face. ¡°No, sir. Everything was fine. I just¡­ I don¡¯t understand how this happened.¡±As the investigation continued, the family remained on edge.


    Detective Harris and his team collected samples from the house and questioned everyone who had ess to the mansion including the chauffeur, security, and other workers in the mansion.


    Later that evening, as Iris sat by Ryan¡¯s bedside, holding his hand, she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that someone had deliberately targeted him.


    Does that mean someone in the mansion hates Ryan and wants to kill him? But who? And why? Ryan¡¯s breathing was steady, but he hadn¡¯t regained consciousness.


    Iris¡¯s heart ached as she looked at him, praying for his recovery.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    The pressure was relentless, and Iris felt like she was being torn apart.


    Meanwhile, Ivy reached out to Be. When Be hit the news, she rushed to the hospital immediately.


    Surprised, she consoled Ivy and Mrs. Rose, indirectly using Iris.¡±I can¡¯t believe this,¡± Be said, her voice dripping with false sympathy.


    ¡°How could anyone do this to Ryan? Poor Ivy, poor Mrs. Rose.¡±Ivy¡¯s eyes were filled with tears. ¡°I know, Be. It¡¯s terrible. could Iris be behind this?¡±


    Be spent more time with Ryan, taking care of him. Iris was denied ess to his room, only able to stand outside, looking in through the transparent ss window.


    She cried her eyes out for days, but no one seemed to care. It mattered less to anyone.


    One evening, as Iris stood outside Ryan¡¯s room, Be walked by and gave her a cold look.


    ¡°You thought you could get away with this, didn¡¯t you?¡± she hissed.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t do it, Be,¡± Iris pleaded, her voice breaking. ¡°You have to believe me.¡±


    ¡°Believe you?¡± Be scoffed. ¡°You¡¯re the only one with ess to the food. The only one who could have done it.¡±


    Iris watched as Be entered Ryan¡¯s room, her heart aching. She felt utterly helpless, knowing that she was being med for something she didn¡¯t do.


    Meanwhile, Ryan¡¯s condition slowly improved. He began to regain consciousness, and the doctors were hopeful about his recovery.


    Weeks passed, and the investigation continued. The police discovered that the poison had been introduced into the food shortly before it was served.


    It was a chilling realization that someone within their circle had orchestrated the attack.


    As Iris stood by the ss window, Ryan¡¯s eyes fluttered open.


    He looked around, disoriented, before his gaze settled on her.


    ¡°Iris?¡± he croaked, his voice weak.


    I¡¯m here, Ryan,¡± Iris said, tears streaming down her face. ¡°You¡¯re going to be okay.¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes filled with confusion and pain. ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°You were poisoned,¡± Iris exined, her voice trembling. ¡°But you¡¯re safe now. We¡¯re going to find out who did this to you.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s grip on her hand tightened. ¡°Iris, I remember something.


    Before I copsed¡­ I saw someone¡­¡±


    ¡°Who, Ryan? Who did you see?¡± Iris asked urgently¡­..

 Chapter 40

    Ryany in his hospital bed, slowly regaining his strength.


    His mind was a blur, trying to piece together what had happened.


    He nced around the room, hoping to see Iris, but she was nowhere in sight. She had been with him when he woke up, initially asking him questions, Instead, he saw his mother, Mrs. Rose, and his sister, Ivy, and Be, rushing towards him.¡±Ryan! Oh, my baby!¡± Mrs. Rose cried, pushing past Iris who had been standing by his bedside.


    ¡°Iris, move!¡± Ivy snapped, shoving her aside as she rushed to Ryan¡¯s other side.


    Iris stumbled back, her eyes wide with shock and pain.


    She had been about to talk to Ryan, to exin what had happened, but now she was being pushed away.


    ¡°Doctor!¡± Mrs. Rose called out, her voice urgent. ¡°Come quickly, my son is awake!¡±Dr. Parker hurried in, examining Ryan and performing a thorough check-up.


    ¡°He needs to remain under close watch,¡± he instructed, making adjustments to the IV drip and checking the monitors.


    As the doctor worked, Ivy and Mrs. Rose kept asking Ryan questions, touching his face, and expressing their relief that he was awake.


    ¡°How are you feeling, darling?¡± Mrs. Rose asked, her voice trembling.


    ¡°Can you remember anything?¡± Ivy added, her eyes searching his face.


    Ryan tried to speak, but his throat was dry and his voice came out as a croak. ¡°Water¡­¡± he managed to say.


    Iris stepped forward with a ss of water, but Ivy snatched it from her hands. ¡°I¡¯ll give it to him,¡± she said sharply.


    Ryan took a few sips, his strength slowly returning. He looked around the room, his eyes finally settling on Iris.


    He opened his mouth to speak, but Mrs. Rose cut him off.


    ¡°Ryan, you need to rest. Don¡¯t worry about anything,¡± she said soothingly, patting his hand.


    Be saw Ryan¡¯s time in the hospital as an opportunity to get closer to him. She was always there, taking care of him, bringing him food, and making sure he wasfortable.


    Iris, on the other hand, was kept at a distance, unable to be near him.


    One day, as Be sat by Ryan¡¯s bedside, she leaned in close.


    ¡°You know, Ryan, it¡¯s so terrible what happened to you. I can¡¯t believe someone would do this to you.¡±


    Ryan looked at her, his eyes filled with confusion.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± he asked weakly.


    ¡°Iris,¡± Be said softly, her voice full of concern.


    ¡°There are people who think she might have had something to do with your poisoning.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Iris? No¡­ she wouldn¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Be pressed gently. ¡°Think about it, Ryan. Who else had ess to your food?¡±


    Ryan felt a pang of doubt.


    He had always trusted Iris, but the seeds of suspicion had been nted.


    Over the next few days, Ivy and Mrs. Rose reinforced Be¡¯s words, brainwashing him into believing Iris was responsible.


    Weekster, Ryan was discharged from the hospital.


    Mrs. Rose, Ivy, and Be followed him home, ensuring he was properly taken care of as Iris was nowhere to be found.


    Be stopped by the house frequently, helping him with whatever he needed.


    One evening, as Ryan was resting in his room, he heard a knock on the door.


    ¡°Come in,¡± he said in a whisper, adjusting himself on the bed.


    The door opened, revealing Sarah, the maid. ¡°Sir, a package arrived for you,¡± she said, handing over a sealed envelope.


    ¡°Thank you, Sarah. You can leave now,¡± Ryan said, taking the envelope.


    As Sarah turned to leave, he called her back. ¡°How long has Iris been out of this house?¡± he asked.


    ¡°For two days now, sir,¡± Sarah replied.¡±And did she tell you where she went?¡± Ryan asked, his voice tense.


    ¡°No, sir. She rushed out like it was an emergency,¡± Sarah said.


    ¡°Okay, you may go now,¡± Ryan said, dismissing her.


    With the sound of the door closing, Ryan looked at the envelope, surprised at who might have sent him a package.


    Tossing it aside initially, he reconsidered and picked it up again. He tore it open and pulled out the contents. What he saw shocked him to his core, his eyes widening in disbelief.


    Inside the envelope were photographs of Iris hugging a man in a cafe, looking distressed.


    There were also documents detailingrge sums of money being transferred into her ount from an unknown source.


    Apanying the photos and documents was a note: ¡°Do you really know who you married?¡±


    Ryan¡¯s hands trembled as he examined the evidence.


    ¡°Iris¡­ how could she?¡± he muttered, feeling a wave of anger and betrayal wash over him.


    Just then, Be entered the room, noticing the change in Ryan¡¯s demeanor. ¡°Ryan, what¡¯s wrong?¡± she asked, feigning concern.


    Ryan looked up at her, his face hardening. ¡°Iris,¡± he said through gritted teeth. ¡°She¡¯s been lying to me.¡±Be¡¯s eyes gleamed with satisfaction.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± she asked,ing closer.


    Ryan handed her the photos and documents.


    ¡°Look at this.


    She¡¯s been meeting someone and taking money.


    ¡°Be pretended to be shocked. ¡°Oh, Ryan, I¡¯m so sorry. I had no idea.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s going to pay for this,¡± Ryan vowed, his voice filled with determination.


    As days went by, Ryan¡¯s hatred for Iris grew. Be, Ivy, and Mrs. Rose continued to fuel his anger, convincing him that Iris had tried to kill him.


    One evening, as Ryan was resting, he heard another knock on the door. ¡°Come in,¡± he said, his voice cold.


    The door opened, revealing Ivy. ¡°Ryan, you need to see this,¡± she said, holding out her phone.


    Ryan took the phone and watched the video Ivy yed for him. It was footage of Iris and the man from the cafe, talking animatedly.


    The sound was muted, but it looked incriminating.


    ¡°She¡¯s been plotting behind your back,¡± Ivy said, her voice full of conviction.


    ¡°We need to do something.¡±Ryan nodded, his face set in a grim expression. ¡°I¡¯ll handle it,¡± he said, his mind made up.


    Later that night, as Ryany in bed, he couldn¡¯t help but think about the woman he had been with and trusted.


    How did ite to this? He felt a deep sense of betrayal, but also a burning desire for justice.


    The next morning, Ryan summoned Sarah to his room.


    ¡°Get me the number for the detective handling my case,¡± he ordered. Sarah nodded and quickly left the room.


    Momentster, she returned with the contact information.


    Ryan dialed the number, his hands steady. ¡°Detective Harris? This is Ryan. I have some new information for you regarding my poisoning case.


    I need you toe over immediately.


    ¡°As he hung up the phone, Ryan felt a sense of resolve. He would uncover the truth, no matter what it took.


    And if Iris was truly guilty, she would pay for her betrayal.


    In the days that followed, Detective Harris arrived at the mansion, gathering the new evidence Ryan had found.


    Sarah and Iris were called in for further interrogation. Sarah repeated her story, emphasizing that Iris had made the food and she had only served it.

 Chapter 41

    Iris, on the other hand, was bombarded with questions.


    As the investigation continued, the tension in the mansion was palpable. Be took every opportunity to be close to Ryan, while Iris was left isted and alone.


    Iris returned home, her heart light with hope as she walked through the front door of the mansion. She had been away, handling a family emergency, and was eager to see Ryan.


    She had been calling him but to no avail. She assumed he was busy or hadn¡¯t noticed her calls. In reality, Be had been with his phone, declining each of her calls as they came through.


    Upon entering the house, Sarah greeted her. ¡°Wee back, ma¡¯am. Ryan is upstairs. He¡¯s been home for a while now.¡±


    ¡°Sarah,¡± Iris greeted the maid warmly as she walked in. How is he?¡±


    Sarah smiled nervously.


    ¡± He¡¯s upstairs. I believe he¡¯s resting.¡±


    Iris smiled, though a hint of confusion lingered. ¡°Thanks, Sarah. I¡¯ll go see him.¡±


    She climbed the stairs, her heart pounding with a mix of anxiety and excitement. She knocked gently on the door.


    ¡°Come in,¡± Ryan¡¯s voice called from inside. Iris took a deep breath, opened the door, and stepped in.


    Her smile dropped instantly as she saw Be lying close to Ryan on the bed, her head resting on his shoulder, their hands intertwined.


    ¡°Finally, you¡¯re back from your honeymoon, right?¡± Ryan barked, his voice dripping with sarcasm.


    ¡°What are you talking about, Ryan?¡± Iris asked, her voice trembling. ¡°I was called¡­¡±


    ¡°By your boyfriend?¡± Ryan cut in sharply.


    ¡°You have no shame or respect for me or yourself. You tried to kill me so you could go be with your lover.


    All this time, you¡¯ve been acting like a saint, but you¡¯re more dangerous than the devil himself. How could I forget? You¡¯re a whore-a filthy one at that.¡±


    ¡°Ryan, I¡­¡± Iris began, but Ryan¡¯s fury silenced her.¡±


    Just shut it and leave my room! I don¡¯t want to see you anywhere near me,¡± Ryan barked, his face contorted with anger.


    Iris¡¯s head spun, tears welling up in her eyes and blurring her vision. She couldn¡¯t believe what she was hearing.


    ¡°Calm down, honey,¡± Be said, her voice sickeningly sweet as she stroked Ryan¡¯s hand. ¡°Don¡¯t be too harsh on her. You¡¯re still recovering. You don¡¯t want to hurt yourself.


    ¡°Ryan red at Iris, his eyes cold and unforgiving. ¡°Get out of my room now and stay out.¡±Iris flinched at his words, the tears she had been holding back finally spilling down her cheeks.


    She turned to leave, pausing at the door. ¡°Ryan, please,¡± she whispered. ¡°You have to believe me. It¡¯s not what you think¡­¡±


    ¡°Leave!¡± Ryan shouted.


    Iris stumbled out of the room, her world crashing down around her. She reached her room and copsed onto the bed, sobbing uncontrobly.


    The pain was unbearable, the betrayal cutting deeper than she could have imagined.


    ************************


    Weeks passed, and the atmosphere in the mansion grew colder. Ryan threw himself into his work, avoiding Iris at every turn.


    He refused to eat anything she cooked, relying on Be to bring him meals or eat out beforeing home.


    Iris was left alone, the silence a constant reminder of her istion.


    One day, an email arrived that offered a glimmer of hope.


    It was from the fashion school where Iris had been epted. She saw this as the perfect opportunity to get her mind off her troubles and find some peace if she could get it.


    On her first day at the fashion school, Iris got up early and went downstairs to make breakfast for herself and Ryan the way she normally does, even though she knew wasn¡¯t going to eat it.


    She was done with the breakfast and headed to her room to bathe, it was a good day for her, and she didn¡¯t want to rush anything.


    She soaked herself in the bathtub, almost forgetting where she had to be, she came out of the bathtub as she dried her body.


    She applied her lotion on her smooth skin, and as she picked out an outfit, she wore loose-fitted blue jeans, a tank top, and a jacket.


    She finished preparing and headed out, she grabbed her car key as she drove off.


    She got to the Fashion school and the building was a sight to behold. It was so big and beautiful.


    She walked into the building, taking in the bustling energy of students and instructors. The creative atmosphere was a wee distraction from the turmoil at home.


    ¡°Wee, everyone,¡± the instructor said, addressing the new students.


    ¡°I¡¯m Mrs. Fields, and I¡¯ll be guiding you through your journey here at the Fashion Institute.


    ¡°Iris listened intently, grateful for the distraction.


    As the ss progressed, she found herself getting lost in the world of design, sketching ideas, and learning new techniques.


    For the first time in weeks, she felt a spark of joy.


    During a break, she sat in the courtyard, sipping a coffee.


    Her thoughts drifted back to Ryan, and she couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of sadness.


    ¡°Hey, mind if I join you?¡± a voice said, snapping her out of her thoughts.


    Iris looked up to see a young woman with a friendly smile. ¡°Sure,¡± Iris replied, gesturing to the seat next to her.


    ¡°I¡¯m Emma,¡± the woman introduced herself. ¡°You¡¯re new here, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m Iris,¡± she replied, managing a small smile.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s your story?¡± Emma asked, her curiosity genuine.


    Iris hesitated for a moment before deciding to share. ¡°I¡¯m here to pursue my passion for fashion design. I needed something to focus on.


    ¡°Emma nodded. ¡°I understand. Life can getplicated. It¡¯s good to have something you love to keep you grounded.


    ¡°As they chatted, Iris felt a sense of friendship with Emma. It was refreshing to talk to someone who didn¡¯t know about her troubles at home.


    Meanwhile, back at the mansion, Ryan was still struggling with his feelings of betrayal.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    He sat in his office, going through paperwork when Be walked in, carrying a paper bag containing food


    ¡°I thought you might be hungry,¡± she said, setting the tray on his desk. Ryan looked up, forcing a smile.


    ¡°Thanks, Be.¡±


    Be sat down, watching him. ¡°You seem distant, Ryan. What¡¯s on your mind?¡±


    Ryan sighed, rubbing his temples. ¡°I just can¡¯t get over what Iris did. It¡¯s eating me up inside.


    ¡°Be reached out, touching his hand. ¡°You don¡¯t have to go through this alone. I¡¯m here for you.¡±


    Ryan nodded, appreciating her support. ¡°I know. It¡¯s just¡­ I never thought she could do something like this.¡±


    Be leaned in closer. ¡°Sometimes, people aren¡¯t who we think they are. You deserve someone who truly cares about you, Ryan.¡±


    Ryan looked into her eyes, feeling a connection. ¡°Maybe you¡¯re right,¡± he said softly.

 Chapter 42

    At the fashion school, Iris was thriving.


    She threw herself into her studies, finding sce in her work.


    One evening, as she sat in her room sketching, her phone buzzed with a message from Emma.


    Emma: ¡°Hey, some of us are going out for drinks tonight. You should join us!¡±Iris hesitated, ncing at the clock.


    She hadn¡¯t been out socially in a long time, but maybe it was time to start living again.


    ¡°Sure, I¡¯d love to. Where should I meet you?¡± Iris asked.


    Later that night, Iris met Emma and a few other students at a cozy bar.


    The atmosphere was lively, filled withughter and conversation.


    ¡°This ce is great,¡± Iris said, taking a sip of her drink.


    ¡°I thought you¡¯d like it,¡± Emma replied with a grin.


    ¡°So, how¡¯s everything going with your designs?¡±Iris¡¯s face lit up.


    ¡°Really well, actually. I feel like I¡¯m finally finding my style.¡±


    As they chatted, Iris felt a weight lifting off her shoulders.


    For the first time in weeks, she wasn¡¯t thinking about Ryan or the usations against her. She was simply enjoying the moment.


    Back at the mansion, Ryan sat alone in the living room, a drink in hand.


    He stared at the empty space where Iris used to sit, feeling a mix of anger and longing.


    The doorbell rang, breaking his thoughts.


    He opened the door to find Be standing there, holding a bottle of wine. ¡°I thought you might want somepany,¡± she said with a smile.


    Ryan stepped aside, letting her in. They sat on the couch, talking andughing as they shared the wine. Be leaned in closer, her hand resting on his arm.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°Ryan, you know I care about you,¡± she said softly. ¡°I just want you to be happy.¡±


    Ryan looked into her eyes, feeling a warmth he hadn¡¯t felt in a long time.


    ¡°I know, Be. Thank you.¡±As the evening wore on, Ryan, still raw from the betrayal he believed Iris hadmitted, foundfort in her presence.


    Be brought her face fowaryas she ced a soft kiss on Ryan¡¯s lips, Ryan didn¡¯t respond to her kiss but was just mute.


    Be felt  bad about Ryan¡¯s rejection, ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­.¡±. Before she could apologize Ryan reached for her lips and swallowed it into his as they kissed desperately.


    The kiss lingered for a while before they disengage, trying to catch their breath.


    Ryan looked into her eyes, as Be bit her lips seductively.


    He lifted her up as they went upstairs, into his room. He kept her on his bed helping remove her clothes as she also helped him remove his as fast as they can, flinging it in the air


    Ryan climbed up the bed as they began a rough sex, smooching and  romancing.


    He finally thrusted into her, she adjusted quickly as she had been waiting for this day all her life.


    *******************


    The night where she took Ryan to her house, after helping him to bed and taking pictures of them together naked she covered him up, as he was already fast asleep.


    *****************************


    She finally had him, and there was no letting go, she thought to herself and smiled.


    Be began to see her efforts paying off.


    After almost an hour they both reached their climax, and fell on the bed trying to catch their breath.


    One afternoon, Iris received an email notification that made her heart skip a beat.


    It was her schedule for the uing term at the fashion school.


    She read through the details, excitement bubbling inside her. This was her chance to prove herself and regain some control over her life.


    The next morning, she dressed in her best outfit and left for school with renewed determination.


    The school was her sanctuary, a ce where she could forget her troubles and focus on her dreams.


    As she walked into her first ss, Mrs. Fields greeted her warmly.


    ¡°Good to see you, Iris. Ready for another day of creativity?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely,¡± Iris replied, her smile genuine.


    Throughout the day, Iris immersed herself in her work, her passion for fashion design shining through in every sketch and project.


    She felt a sense of aplishment she hadn¡¯t felt in a long time. During lunch, Emma joined her at the cafeteria.


    ¡°Hey, how¡¯s it going?¡±


    ¡°Really well,¡± Iris said, her eyes sparkling. ¡°I feel like I¡¯m finally finding my ce here.¡±Emma grinned.


    ¡°That¡¯s great to hear. You¡¯ve got real talent, Iris. Keep it up.¡±


    Iris stood in the grand foyer of the mansion, her mind racing with questions and doubts.


    The past few weeks had been a whirlwind of emotions, leaving her feeling more lost than ever.


    She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that there was something crucial she was missing, a piece of the puzzle that would exin everything.


    As she wandered through the house, her thoughts drifted to Be, Ryan Ex- ex-girlfriend.


    Be¡¯s presence loomedrge in the mansion, an unseen specter that haunted the hallways and rooms.


    Iris had heard bits and pieces about her from the staff, whispers of a beautiful, charismatic woman who had once held Ryan¡¯s heart.


    Iris¡¯s curiosity grew each day, fueled by the lingering mystery of Be¡¯s sudden impact on Ryan. She decided it was time to uncover the truth about Be, to understand the shadow that seemed to cast a pall over her marriage.


    That afternoon, Iris found herself in Ryan¡¯s study room, a room filled with shelves upon shelves of books, many of them untouched.


    She scanned the titles, her fingers brushing against the spines, until she spotted a photo album tucked away on a high shelf.


    She pulled it down, her heart pounding with anticipation.


    As she flipped through the pages, she saw pictures of Ryan with Be.


    They looked happy together, their smiles genuine and their eyes filled with love. There were photos of them at parties, in high school, prom, on vacations, and in candid moments that spoke of a deep and meaningful connection.


    The more Iris looked, the more she felt a pang of jealousy and sadness.


    ¡°Lost in memories?¡± a voice behind her said. Iris turned to see Sarah standing in the doorway, a sympathetic look on her face.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Iris admitted, closing the album. ¡°I was just curious about Be.

 Chapter 43

    Ryan sat in his office, going through paperwork.


    He had fully recovered from the food poisoning incident and had resumed work, falling back into his routine.


    Things were going smoothly, but there was a lingering sense of unease he couldn¡¯t shake off.


    One afternoon, Luca came into his office. They hadn¡¯t had a proper chat in weeks, and Ryan weed the distraction.


    They settled into the office, Ryan¡¯s desk cluttered with documents and reports.


    ¡°So, how are things going, man?¡± Luca asked, leaning back in his chair.


    Ryan sighed. ¡°Busy, but manageable. Just trying to keep everything on track.


    How about you?¡±Luca shrugged. ¡°Same old, same old. But there¡¯s something I wanted to talk to you about.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±Luca hesitated before speaking. ¡°The food poisoning incident. Do you think Iris was behind it?¡±


    Ryan¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°What else am I supposed to think? All the evidence points to her.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but think about it.


    You¡¯ve known Iris for a long time. Do you believe she could do something like that?¡±Ryan frowned.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Luca. It¡¯s hard to tell. I mean, she was bonding with me before all this happened.


    But then, the evidence¡­¡±Luca leaned forward. ¡°Ryan, I¡¯ve been watching you and Be.


    There¡¯s something off there. The closeness you have with her now¡­ it¡¯s not right.¡±Ryan sighed heavily. ¡°I know. It¡¯splicated.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    After that night we spent together, I felt guilty. It was just¡­ it wasn¡¯t anything special. Not like with Iris.¡±Luca raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°You slept with Be? When was this?¡±


    ¡°After a night out. I was drunk, and she took me to her ce. We¡­ you know.¡±


    ¡°And how did it feel?¡± Luca asked.


    Ryan shrugged. ¡°It felt wrong. I mean, it was just like being with any other girl.


    Nothing specialpared to Iris.¡±Lucaughed lightly. ¡°Man, you¡¯re falling for her.¡±Ryan barked a shortugh. ¡°Who, Iris? Never.


    She almost killed me through food poisoning.¡±Luca shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t think she¡¯s responsible for that.


    There¡¯s something else going on here. Remember, Iris was kidnapped, and we still haven¡¯t found out who did it.


    Why would she frame her kidnapping?¡±Ryan considered this. ¡°People can go to great lengths to cover their tracks.¡±


    ¡°Not Iris. I saw her sketches the other day. They¡¯re incredible. You never mentioned she was so talented.¡±


    Ryan looked surprised. ¡°Where did you see them? She¡¯s been looking for them all over the house.¡±Luca hesitated. ¡°In her room. When I stopped by the house looking for you, her door was open, and I saw her drawings.¡±


    ¡°You entered her room?¡± Ryan¡¯s eyes widened with a mix of shock and jealousy. ¡°To do what?¡±


    ¡°Chill, man. Her door was open. I was looking for you, and I happened to see them.¡±Ryan leaned back in his chair, processing this information.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t seen her sketches.¡±


    ¡°You haven¡¯t?¡± Luca asked, surprised. ¡°Why not?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Ryan admitted. ¡°I guess I never thought to look.¡±Luca shook his head.


    ¡°Man, you should support her. She¡¯s got real talent. Why haven¡¯t you helped her pursue her career?¡±.


    Ryan raised an eyebrow. ¡°A career in stripping?¡±


    ¡°No,e on, man. As a fashion designer.¡±Ryan sighed. ¡°I just¡­ I haven¡¯t seen her work. I didn¡¯t know.¡±


    Their conversation was interrupted by the notification tone on Ryan¡¯s phone. He nced at it and frowned.


    It was a photo of Iris entering the fashion school.¡±What is it?¡± Luca asked.


    Ryan turned the phone towards Luca, who smiled.


    ¡°She¡¯s pursuing her passion, man.


    Without my con¡­.¡±Before Ryan could finish talking, there was a gentle knock on the door.


    ¡°Come in,¡± Ryan called out.


    The door opened, and Be walked in, looking stunning as always.


    She carried a bag of food in one hand and her purse in the other.


    ¡°Hi, Lu,¡± she greeted with a smile, her white teeth shing.


    ¡°Hi, Be,¡± Luca replied.


    ¡°I was just about to head back to my office. I¡¯ve got some documents to catch up on.¡±


    ¡°I thought you were going to join me for lunch,¡± Ryan said.


    ¡°Nah, I¡¯ve got a lunch date,¡± Luca said, smiling and giving Ryan a wink that Be didn¡¯t see.


    ¡°Enjoy.¡±After Luca left, Be set the food on Ryan¡¯s desk and settled into the chair Luca had vacated.


    ¡°I thought you might be hungry.¡±Ryan forced a smile. ¡°Thanks, Be.


    ¡°She looked at him, her expression softening.


    ¡°You seem stressed. Is everything okay?¡±Ryan sighed. ¡°Just a lot on my mind.¡±Be reached out and touched his hand.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to go through this alone. I¡¯m here for you.¡±Ryan nodded. ¡°I appreciate that.¡±


    As they ate, Be talked about trivial things, trying to lighten the mood. But Ryan¡¯s thoughts kept drifting back to his conversation with Luca. Could it be that Iris was innocent? He had to find out.


    Ryan had a long day at work, and Be insisted on staying with him.


    After the office hours, Be wouldn¡¯t relent and finally convinced Ryan to let here home with him.


    Despite his initial resistance, he finally agreed.


    They stopped by a restaurant for dinner before heading home. As they entered the house, they saw Iris at the dining table, having dinner.


    Upon seeing them, Iris stood up.


    ¡°Wee,¡± she greeted them.


    ¡°What took you so long?¡± Be blurted out.¡±I never greeted you; it was meant for Ryan,¡± Iris responded coolly.


    ¡°And who told you I wanted you to greet me, you unfaithful whore?¡± Ryan snapped back.¡±I know you are mannerless, but you should show some respect to my guest,¡± Ryan barked at Iris.


    ¡°Your guest should learn how to greet too, don¡¯t you think so?¡± Iris fired back, surprising both Ryan and Be with her defiance.


    ¡°What did you just say?¡± Ryan stepped forward, anger shing in his eyes.


    ¡°You heard me right, Ryan,¡± Iris said, her voice steady but her hands trembling.


    Before she could say another word, Ryan pped her hard across the face, causing her to stagger backward.


    She held her cheek in pain, hot tears streaming down her face.

 Chapter 44

    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare speak to me in such a manner again!¡± he yelled.


    ¡°Honey, that¡¯s enough, please. Spare her. She¡¯s a low life; what do you expect from people like her?¡± Be said, walking towards him and wrapping her arms around him.


    Iris, holding back more tears, left her dinner and rushed upstairs to her room.


    Ryan,ing back to his senses and realizing what he had just done, felt angry with himself.


    ¡°Honey, it¡¯s alright. Let¡¯s go upstairs,¡± Be said soothingly


    ¡°Please,¡± Ryan lifted his hand to stop her. ¡°Go home, Be.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Be was taken aback.¡± I said go home!¡± he yelled, causing Be to flinch.


    ¡°Alright, fine. I will see you tomorrow,¡± she said, cing a kiss on Ryan¡¯s cheek before walking out.


    Ryan walked to his mini bar near the kitchen, grabbed a bottle of whiskey, and began drinking directly from it.


    The burning sensation in his throat mirrored the turmoil inside him. He continued drinking until he was heavily intoxicated, mumbling incoherently.


    ¡°Why¡­ why did this happen?¡± he slurred.


    ¡°She deserved it¡­ no, she didn¡¯t¡­ I¡¯m a monster¡­ she¡¯s a bitch¡­ no, she¡¯s not¡­¡± he mumbled to himself¡­as he stumbled up the stairs, pushing open the door to Iris¡¯s room.


    She was on her bed, crying.


    Ryan murmured more incoherent words.¡±Iris¡­ I¡¯m sorry¡­ didn¡¯t mean to¡­ but why? Why did you¡­¡± His words were a jumbled mess, barely making sense


    He fell onto her bed, and Iris was scared for a moment. He tried to speak but ended up mumbling more gibberish.


    ¡°Ryan, please¡­ leave,¡± she said, her voice trembling.


    Instead, Ryan, in his drunken state, tried to get closer to her.


    Iris¡¯s heart raced with fear and confusion. She pushed him away as gently as she could, but he was persistent.


    Fear gripped Iris as Ryan¡¯s body pressed against hers. His hands fumbled with her clothes, his movements clumsy and forceful. She tried to resist, but her strength was no match for his.


    Tears streamed down her face as Ryan ripped her clothes off her body,  his actions a stark contrast to the tender words he had uttered moments ago.


    With each thrust, she felt a part of her dying, reced by a cold, empty void.


    Finally, in his intoxicated stupor, he copsed next to her, mumbling incoherently until he fell asleep.


    Iris, shaking and terrified, managed to push him off her and slipped out of the bed.


    She went to the bathroom, locking the door behind her.


    She turned on the shower, hoping the water could wash away the night¡¯s events.


    She sat under the stream of water, hugging her knees, and cried uncontrobly.


    The water couldn¡¯t wash away Ryan¡¯s touch or the emotional pain she felt.


    Hours passed, and Iris stayed in the bathroom until the water ran cold. She finally stood up, wrapped herself in a towel, and slowly made her way back to her room.


    Ryan was still asleep on her bed. She covered him with a nket, then took a pillow and nket and settled on the floor, too exhausted and broken to care about anything else.


    As shey there, she wondered how her life had taken such a dark turn. She had once believed in the possibility of a real marriage with Ryan, but now, she was trapped in a nightmare.


    Her mind raced with thoughts of escape, justice, and finding a way to clear her name. She knew she had to be strong, not just for herself, but for the future she still hoped to build.


    In the following days, Iris avoided Ryan as much as possible. She threw herself into her fashion school, finding sce in her work.


    Her determination to seed and prove herself kept her going, even when everything else seemed to be falling apart.


    Ryan, on the other hand, continued to struggle with his conflicting emotions. He couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling that something was wrong, that maybe he had been too harsh on Iris.


    But with Be constantly by his side, reinforcing the narrative that Iris was the one to me, he found it hard to see through the fog of his anger and confusion.


    Meanwhile, Luca kept a close eye on the situation, hoping to find a way to help his friend see the truth. He knew that there was more to the story than what met the eye and that the real culprit behind Ryan¡¯s poisoning was still out there.


    Weekster, Iris sat at her desk, staring at the iplete sketches scattered across its surface. Her promotional exams at the fashion school were drawing dangerously close, and the pressure was mounting.


    Yet, there was still no sign of her original sketchbook. The new sketches she had started were far frompletion, and she felt the weight of distress settle heavily on her shoulders.


    Ryan¡¯s recent behavior did nothing to ease her anxiety. They barely spoke, and the house felt colder and more distant than ever. She noticed him constantly checking on her, standing by her door before leaving without a word. She couldn¡¯t decipher his intentions, and it only added to her stress.


    ¡°He hasn¡¯t even acknowledged my efforts at fashion school,¡± she thought bitterly. ¡°It would have been nice if he showed some interest, maybe even attended our first promotional event. But why would he? He doesn¡¯t care.¡±


    Her thoughts drifted back to her lost sketchbook. It contained some of her best work, inspired pieces that seemed impossible to replicate under the current strain.


    The promotional exam was just a few weeks away, and Iris feared she wouldn¡¯t be able to meet the standards with her new designs.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    She sighed, rubbing her temples. ¡°I need to focus,¡± she muttered to herself. ¡°I have to at least try to create something new, even if it¡¯s not as good as the originals.¡±


    Meanwhile, across town, Ivy was visiting Be at her house. As they sat in Be¡¯s living room, Ivy showed her the sketches she had been working on.


    ¡°Wow, these are so beautiful,¡± Be eximed, flipping through the pages. ¡°I never knew you could draw like this. These designs are incredible.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Ivy replied with a shy smile. ¡°It¡¯s been a special skill I¡¯ve had since childhood.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe I never noticed,¡± Be said, shaking her head. ¡°Well, maybe I didn¡¯t pay much attention before, but these are outstanding. They¡¯re fresh and unique. I haven¡¯t seen anything like this in a long time.¡±


    ¡°I was thinking,¡± Ivy began, ¡°since Beth Fashion School is having their annual audition, I¡¯d like to get some of these designs on the models. Top fashion brand owners will be there.¡±


    ¡°That would be fantastic, Ivy,¡± Be said, her eyes lighting up. ¡°A lot of fashion icons will be there. This is your moment-grab it!¡±


    Ivy nodded in agreement, feeling a surge of excitement. She hugged Be tightly. ¡°Thank you so much,¡± she said, her voice full of gratitude.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mention it,¡± Be replied, smiling. ¡°What are family for? I¡¯ll get a team together for you and secure a space for your models. This is going to be great.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s eyes sparkled with anticipation. ¡°A, thank you, Be. I owe you big time.¡±


    ¡°Stop it, girl,¡± Be said, waving her hand dismissively. ¡°You owe me nothing. But, speaking of family, I have some good news for both our families.¡±Ivy looked at her curiously. ¡°What is it?¡±¡­

 Chapter 45

    Back at Ryan¡¯s house, Iris was trying to concentrate on her new sketches. She knew she had to finish them in time for the promotional exam, but her mind kept wandering.


    The memories of her lost sketchbook haunted her. Each sketch in that book was a piece of her heart, and the loss felt like a wound that wouldn¡¯t heal.


    Ryan, on the other hand, was grappling with his thoughts. He had been harsh with Iris, and the guilt gnawed at him.


    He couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling that he was missing something important. The tension between them was palpable, and he knew it wasn¡¯t just about the lost sketchbook.


    As Iris was workingte into the night, Ryan approached her room again. He stood outside the door, listening to the sound of her pencil scratching against the paper.


    He felt a pang of regret but didn¡¯t know how to bridge the gap that had formed between them. After a while, he turned and walked away, leaving Iris alone with her thoughts.


    Iris sat on her bed, her phone in hand as she scrolled through her contacts. She needed to talk to someone, and there was only one person she could think of who would understand everything she was going through, She dialed the number and waited for her friend to pick up.


    ¡°Hello?¡± Skr¡¯s familiar voice answered.


    ¡°Hey Sky, it¡¯s Iris,¡± she said, a small smile tugging at her lips.


    Iris! How have you been? It¡¯s been a while!¡±


    ¡°I know, I know. I¡¯m sorry I haven¡¯t called sooner. How¡¯s everything? How¡¯s Mom?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re both fine,¡± Skr replied. ¡°The money you¡¯ve been sending is taking care of all her bills. But Iris, she wants to see you.¡±


    ¡°I want to see her too,¡± Iris said softly. ¡°But things have been so crazy here. I have my promotional examsing up at the fashion school, and I lost my sketchbook. It¡¯s been a nightmare.¡±


    ¡°Oh no, not your sketchbook! Did you look around the house carefully? Maybe someone took it?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Sky. I just can¡¯t find it anywhere. And with Ryan¡­ things have beenplicated.¡±


    Skr sighed. ¡°I wish I could help more. But hey, let me tell you about my mess of a love life. You remember Mr. Right? Turns out he was a cheater and a womanizer. We broke up.¡±


    ¡°Oh Sky, I¡¯m so sorry to hear that. You deserve so much better.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve given up on love, Iris. I just can¡¯t trust anyone anymore.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that. Love will find you when you least expect it. Promise me you¡¯ll keep your heart open.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll try, Iris. But enough about me. When are youing to visit?¡±


    ¡°After the exams. I promise I¡¯lle see you and Mom.¡±


    ¡°After the exams. I promise I¡¯lle see you and Mom.¡±


    ¡°Good. We miss you. And remember, check everywhere for that sketchbook. It has to be somewhere.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Sky. I¡¯ll talk to you soon.¡±As Iris hung up, she felt a renewed determination to find her sketchbook and ace her exams. She owed it to herself, her mother, and Skr to keep pushing forward.


    In a dimly lit room, an unknown man sat, puffing out smoke from his cigarette. His phone rang, and he answered it with a gruff ¡°Hello.¡±


    ¡°Her fashion school is hosting an event. She¡¯ll be there alone. Ryan won¡¯t go with her,¡± said the voice on the other end.


    ¡°Good, good. I¡¯ll make arrangements. Update me if there is anything else,¡± he replied, hanging up the phone. A sinister smile yed on his lips as he contemted his next move.


    Meanwhile, Be and Ivy were hard at work on Ivy¡¯s designs for the Beth Fashion House.


    They were determined to make a name for themselves in the fashion industry.


    As they worked, Ivy couldn¡¯t help but remember the good news Be had mentioned.¡±Be, you didn¡¯t tell me about the good news, the one that was for the good of our families,¡± Ivy said, curiosity getting the better of her.


    ¡°Oh Ivy, you never forget things, do you?¡± Be chuckled. ¡°Well, I¡¯m pregnant with your brother¡¯s child.¡±


    ¡°What?! Pregnant? For Ryan? How? When?¡± Ivy stammered, her mind reeling.


    ¡°Calm down, dear,¡± Be smiled. ¡°Is he aware?¡± Ivy asked, still in shock.


    ¡°Not yet. I wanted it to be a surprise,¡± Be said.


    ¡°Congrattions, Be,¡± Ivy said with mixed feelings. She didn¡¯t know why, but she felt a pang of hurt. She quickly waved the thought aside. ¡°It also means that good-for-nothing Iris will be kicked out of my brother¡¯s life for good.¡±


    ¡°Ivy, are you okay? You seem lost,¡± Be observed.


    Jerking back to reality, Ivy replied, ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m fine. I was just thinking about the show and hoping it goes well.¡±


    ¡°It will, don¡¯t worry,¡± Be reassured her. ¡°Meanwhile, let¡¯s celebrate. Your cousins and nephew are on the way.¡± Be stood up to get a bottle of wine and two sses.


    Just then Ivy¡¯s phone rang.


    She picked it up and saw it was her mom.¡±Hi, Mom,¡± Ivy greeted.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Hi, honey. How are you doing? I haven¡¯t seen you for days now. Are you okay? You didn¡¯t even stop by the house to check on me and your father.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, Mom. I¡¯ve just been so busy. I promise I¡¯ll stop by today,¡± Ivy assured.¡±Alright, baby,¡± Mrs. Rose began, but before she could continue, she heard Be¡¯s voice in the background.


    ¡°Celebration time!¡± Be eximed, holding up a bottle of wine and two sses.


    ¡°Is that Be? What is the celebration about?¡± Mrs. Rose asked, curiosity evident in her tone.


    ¡°Uh, yes, Mom. Be is here. We¡¯re celebrating¡­ well, Be¡¯s pregnant,¡± Ivy said, feeling a mix of emotions.


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s wonderful news! Congrattions to Be, I wish it for Ryan¡± Mrs. Rose said warmly. ¡°But Ivy, you need toe home soon. We miss you.¡±


    ¡°I will, Mom. I promise. I¡¯ll see youter today,¡± Ivy replied before hanging up.


    Be poured the wine, handing a ss to Ivy. ¡°To new beginnings,¡± she toasted, her eyes sparkling with excitement.¡±To new beginnings,¡± Ivy echoed, clinking her ss against Be¡¯s.


    Despite her mixed feelings, she smiled, hoping that everything would turn out for the best.


    *************************************


    The days flew by, and the Beth Fashion School event loomed closer. Iris found herself spending more and more time with her new friend, Maya, whom she had met at the fashion school.


    The two bonded over their shared passion for design, and Iris taught Maya some advanced sketching techniques that greatly improved her skills.


    ¡°You¡¯re a natural, Maya,¡± Iris said one afternoon as they sat in a cozy cafe, their sketchbooks spread out in front of them.


    ¡°Thanks to you,¡± Maya replied, her eyes shining with gratitude. ¡°I can¡¯t believe how much I¡¯ve learned in such a short time.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a fast learner,¡± Iris smiled. ¡°And it¡¯s been fun sharing ideas with you.¡±


    Their friendship extended beyond the ssroom. They went on random outings, exploring art galleries, attending workshops, and even visited fabric stores to get inspiration.


    Meanwhile, Ryan had been dealing with a storm of issues. His father continued to refuse to hand over the family empire, and Iris¡¯s cold demeanor and focus on her fashion school only added to his stress. He had been conducting investigations and finally discovered that Iris wasn¡¯t cheating. The man in the picture was simply her colleague¡¯s husband.


    Yet, there was still the mystery of the intruder who had tried to kill him. The CCTV cameras had gone nk that day, leaving him with no clues. Be¡¯s constant disturbances didn¡¯t help either, and he had been avoiding her as much as possible.


    One evening, after another fruitless search for Iris¡¯s sketchbook, Ryan sat in his study, deep in thought. He had instructed the maids and workers to search every corner of the house, but it remained elusive. He knew how much it meant to her and felt a pang of guilt.

 Chapter 46

    ¡°Maybe Luka was right,¡± he muttered to himself. Luka, a close friend, had told him about the amazing designs Iris had created.


    Determined to make things right, Ryan ensured Iris was being watched and protected. He wouldn¡¯t allow any harm toe to her again.


    The day of the Beth Fashion School promotional event finally arrived. Iris woke up early, her heart pounding with anticipation. She had prepared meticulously, and today was the day to showcase her work. As she rushed out of the room,  she bumped into Ryan, who seemed to have just woken up.


    He stood in the hallway, shirtless, with his pajama pants hanging low on his hips. Iris couldn¡¯t help but notice his sculpted physique and felt a pang of longing. ¡°I¡¯m all yours,¡± he said with a smirk, bringing her back to reality.


    Iris¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She was about to leave, and yet, here she was, captivated by the man standing before her.


    Ryan caught her arm and pulled her closer, his hand sliding down her body as itnded on her ass.  A shiver ran down her spine as his lips brushed against her chest.


    ¡°Uhm good morning, I have to go,¡± she stammered, attempting to dash past him.


    ¡°Shhh,¡± he murmured, cing a finger on her lips and slowly sliding it down to her chest. ¡°Ryan¡­ I have to go¡­¡±


    They shared a passionate kiss, their bodies responding instinctively.


    They moved slowly, not far from his room door.


    He ced his lips on hers, kissing her roughly as their tongues intertwined. They kissed passionately as he helped unbutton her clothes.


    She slid his pajama pants downward,ing into contact with his erect dick. He pushed her onto the bed, flipping her over and making her bend over, her chest touching the bed, her waist and bum lifted in a curved way.


    Her pussy juice was dripping as her pussy was open. Slowly and fully, he thrust into her, and a soft moan escaped her lips, ¡°Ahhhhh fuck.¡± He began thrusting slowly, adjusting fully into her.


    He kept thrusting until they both finally reached their climax andy on the bed, trying to catch their breath.


    Ryan got up and ced a kiss on her head. ¡°I guess you have somewhere to be?¡± he asked.


    Iris nodded as she took herself out of her room.


    ******************************************************


    Iris arrived at the fashion school, her heart still racing from the encounter with Ryan. Her friend Emma greeted her with a worried expression.


    ¡°Thank goodness you got here just in time! I was worried you wouldn¡¯te,¡± Emma


    said, panicking.


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t Ie? We¡¯ve been preparing for this, remember?¡± Iris smiled.


    ¡°You look so bright today. What¡¯s up?¡± Emma asked, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°Me? Oh,e on, this is how I¡¯ve always been. I¡¯m just excited about today,¡± Iris said dreamily.


    ¡°If you say so,¡± Emma replied, still skeptical. ¡°Let¡¯s get prepared.¡±


    Throughout the preparations, Iris couldn¡¯t stop smiling. Everything was falling into ce. The stage was being set, the models and designers were backstage, and the energy was palpable.


    As the event kicked off, Iris¡¯s nerves settled. She went to pick up a mannequin she needed for her setup and unexpectedly ran into someone she least expected¡­.


    **************************************************


    At exactly 5 PM, the event started with the red carpet. Everyone was busy, trying to finish up their models and designs. Top designers, fashion brands, and top models were arriving one after the other.


    Iris was hurrying to finalize her preparations when she bumped into Be.


    ¡°Oh, Iris, I see you here. Did youe for the ushering job or to run errands?¡± Be asked with a smug smile.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m¡­¡­¡± Iris began, but Be cut her off.


    ¡°Never mind. Help me get the stuff from my car. I wouldn¡¯t want to stress myself with my condition,¡± Be said dismissively as she walked away.


    ¡°Condition? Who does she think she is?¡± Iris muttered, clearly frustrated by Be¡¯s act.


    Ryan didn¡¯t go to work that day, as he was prepared to head to the Beth Fashion event.


    He wanted to surprise Iris and attend the event, knowing he was the only support she had.


    He arrived at the event in a red tuxedo, driving a red Benz.


    As he stepped out, the cameras were on him, shes of light flying around as numerous questions were asked by the reporters.


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick, is it true that your wife tried to poison you?¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°When is the empire going to be handed over to you?¡±


    ¡°Are you going out with Be, the fashion icon?¡±


    ¡°Who have youe for today, your wife or Be?¡±


    Questions kept popping up as his guards made way for him to pass through the crowd until he was ushered inside. Sitting down, his eyes searched the room until they met hers¡­


    Meanwhile, Skr was home with Iris¡¯s mother. They both turned on the TV to watch the event since they couldn¡¯t go and support Iris.


    The show continued with the introduction of guests, and the order of events began. The runway started with top brands showcasing their designs. Iris was inspired by the unique designs and learned new things too. Just when the excitement was everywhere, something caught Iris¡¯ attention.


    As Iris was making her way back from retrieving Be¡¯s items, she noticed a familiar face among the crowd.


    It was Ryan, looking dapper in his red tuxedo. She was taken aback, not expecting him to attend.


    Ryan approached Iris, a determined look in his eyes. ¡°Iris, I came to support you,¡± he said, his voice sincere.


    Iris blinked, unsure how to respond. ¡°Thank you, Ryan. I appreciate it,¡± she finally said, trying to keep her emotions in check.


    ¡°I know I¡¯ve been distant, but I¡¯m here now,¡± Ryan continued. ¡°And I want to make things right.¡±Before Iris could respond, Be appeared, interrupting the moment.


    ¡°Ryan! I didn¡¯t expect to see you here,¡± she said, her toneced with surprise and a hint of annoyance.


    ¡°Well, I wouldn¡¯t miss supporting my wife,¡± Ryan replied coolly, his eyes never leaving Iris.


    Be¡¯s expression faltered for a moment before she regained herposure. ¡°Of course. How thoughtful of you,¡± she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm.


    Iris took a deep breath, feeling a mix of emotions. She needed to focus on the event, not the drama unfolding around her. ¡°I have to get back to my preparations,¡± she said, excusing herself.


    As she walked away, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a glimmer of hope. Maybe things would get better.


    Back at the event, the runway show was in full swing.


    Designers and models showcased their creations, each one more impressive than thest.


    Iris watched intently, taking mental notes and drawing inspiration from the designs.


    ¡°Your work is next,¡± one of the event coordinators informed her.


    Iris nodded, feeling a surge of nerves mixed with excitement.


    She quickly checked on her models and made sure everything was in ce. As the models lined up to go on stage, she took a moment topose herself.


    Just then, her phone buzzed. It was Skr.


    ¡°Hey, Sky,¡± Iris answered, her voice shaky.


    ¡°Hey, Iris! We¡¯re watching you from home. You¡¯re going to do great!¡±


    Skr¡¯s voice was full of encouragement.¡±Thanks, Sky. I needed that,¡± Iris replied, feeling a bit more confident.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got this. And remember, your mom is so proud of you,¡± Skr added.


    Iris felt tears welling up but blinked them away. ¡°I know. I miss her so much. I¡¯lle visit as soon as this is over.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll be waiting. Go out there and shine!¡± Skr said before they hung up.


    Feeling a renewed sense of purpose, Iris took a deep breath and walked over to her models. ¡°Alright, everyone. Let¡¯s give it our best,¡± she said, her voice steady.


    The models nodded, and one by one, they stepped onto the runway, showcasing Iris¡¯s designs.


    The audience watched in awe as the unique and intricate creations came to life on the stage.


    Ryan watched from his seat, a sense of pride swelling in his chest. He knew how much work Iris had put into this, and seeing her seed made him realize how much he wanted to be a part of her world.


    Be, on the other hand, couldn¡¯t hide her irritation. She had hoped to be the center of attention, although she was part of the judges but Iris was stealing the show


    . As the final model walked off the stage, the audience erupted in apuse. Iris felt a rush of relief and joy. She had done it. She had shown everyone what she was capable of.


    Ryan stood up, making his way towards Iris.


    ¡°You were amazing,¡± he said, his eyes filled with admiration.¡±Thank you,¡± Iris replied, a genuine smile on her face.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talkter,¡± Ryan suggested. ¡°I want to hear all about your designs.¡±Iris nodded, feeling hopeful. Maybe things were finally starting to change.


    Meanwhile, Skr and Iris¡¯s mother watched the event from home, their hearts swelling with pride.¡±She did it,¡± Iris¡¯s mother said, tears of joy streaming down her face.


    ¡°Yes, she did,¡± Skr agreed, feeling a sense of fulfillment.

 Chapter 47

    The show was heating up, the atmosphere electric with anticipation. After Iris¡¯s fresh designs and outstanding models had stunned the audience, her co-designers disyed their creations, each more breathtaking than thest. The judges deliberated, their expressions a mix of admiration and intense scrutiny.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Backstage, Iris and her friend Emma chatted animatedly, the excitement palpable. Iris noticed Ivy at the other end of the backstage area. Curiosity piqued, she thought about approaching her but decided against it, suspecting Ivy might be there with Be.


    Just as the announcement for the best student was about to be made, an unexpected interruption urred.


    ¡°Ladies and gentlemen,¡± the pretty host announced, ¡°just before we call it a night, we have onest designer in the house. Known for her outstanding taste and the name she has been creating for herself, she¡¯s not just a designer but also a model for top brands. Let¡¯s wee Ivy¡¯s Collection.¡±


    Dressed in a stoned jumpsuit that shimmered under the lights, Ivy stepped onto the stage. Her outfit clung to her in all the right ces, entuating her curves and exuding elegance. The crowd¡¯s attention was riveted.


    As Ivy¡¯s models strutted down the runway, the designs left the audience dumbstruck, their mouths hanging open in awe. The intricate details, the innovative cuts, and the sheer brilliance of the designs were unlike anything they had seen.


    Iris watched intently, a sense of familiarity nagging at her. The designs looked too familiar.


    ¡°Why do they look so familiar, all of them?¡± she thought, As the models continued their walk, realization struck her like a lightning bolt.


    ¡°They¡¯re my designs, my sketchbook!¡± Iris gasped, her eyes darkening with rage as she clenched her fists.


    The apuse for Ivy¡¯s collection seemed endless. Fueled by anger, Iris stormed towards Ivy, her determination clear.


    .¡±Ivy!¡± she called out.


    ************************************


    Ryan sat in his seat, joy filling his heart. He knew Iris¡¯s designs stood out among all the other beautiful creations. Just before the best student was announced, a pause and an announcement revealed onest designer¡¯s disy.


    To his surprise, it was his sister, Ivy, once again she had made the Kendrick¡¯s proud.


    Her designs were top-notch, a revtion that caught him off guard. Rising to congratte her, Ryan felt a mix of pride and astonishment.


    ¡°I never knew you had this in you,¡± he said, approaching her.


    ¡°Bro!¡± Ivy called, smiling as she hugged him.


    ¡°Your designs are amazing,¡± Ryanplimented.¡±Thank you, Ryan.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t notice you were around. Did youe with Be?¡±


    ¡°No, I came to support Iris,¡± he said.¡±Oh,¡± Ivy muttered.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m sure Be has told you the good news,¡± Ivy said.¡±Good news?


    What good news?¡±


    Before she could borate, Iris called out to Ryan from behind.


    ¡°I need to speak to you, Ryan,¡± Iris said urgently.


    ¡°Are you blind? Can¡¯t you see we are in the middle of a conversation?¡± Ivy barked.


    Ryan stood in between, saying nothing.¡±Ivy, that¡¯s enough, he finally spoke out.


    Iris, is everything alright?¡± Ryan asked


    ¡°Never knew lowlifes aspire to be great,¡± Ivy chuckled, giving Iris a scornful look.


    Ryan turned, giving Ivy a hard look. ¡°What? I¡¯m only stating the bitter truth,¡± Ivy said


    . Iris felt devastated. As she opened her mouth to speak, Emma rushed to her.¡±Iris, you are being called. Hurry!¡±


    ¡°Called? Why? By who?¡± Iris asked, confused.


    ¡°You won! Emma jumped in excitement. ¡±


    Although your designs are simr to Ivy¡¯s, since Ivy is not a student, she got an outstanding award, and you won for the best St. udent.


    ¡°Emma didn¡¯t wait for Iris to process everything or say a word before dragging her away from Ryan.


    Iris went to the stage to receive her award. Several brands decided to work with her, handing her their business cards.


    Meanwhile, a huge crowd gathered around Ivy, exchanging contacts and congrattory messages.


    Iris was full of rage. She finally realized Ivy was the one who took her sketchbook.


    After receiving the award, Iris quickly rushed to find Ryan, wanting to show him her award and tell him what she had found out who took her sketchbook.


    But when she reached the backstage area where he had been, he was nowhere to be found. She decided to search for him and headed towards the models¡¯ dressing room.


    As she approached, she heard Ryan¡¯s voice. Walking towards the sound, she overheard the most shocking news of her life, freezing her in ce. She felt empty, her world crashing down around her.


    ¡°Ry¡­ an Ryan¡­¡± Iris whispered above a breath, hot tears streaming down her face.


    Iris stood there shattered. Be¡¯s words kept ringing in her head: ¡°I¡¯m pregnant, Ryan. We¡¯re having a baby soon.¡± As soon as Be noticed Iris, she grabbed Ryan and wrapped her hands around him, nting a kiss on his cheek with a smirk. Ryan turned, saw Iris, and quickly pulled away from Be. He ran after Iris, who had walked out in tears.


    ¡°Iris! Iris, please wait! It¡¯s not what you think! There¡¯s a mix-up somewhere!¡± he called out, catching up to her.


    When she turned to face him, she pped him across the face. ¡°Don¡¯t touch me again! You¡¯re nothing but a male whore.¡±


    As she stepped out of the building, the paparazzi swarmed her, taking numerous pictures and bombarding her with questions.


    ¡°Mrs. Iris, how do you feel being the best student of Beth Fashion School?¡±


    ¡°Did you win the best through your husband¡¯s influence?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Ryan, why do your sister and wife look so much alike?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Ryan, are you proud of your wife¡¯s efforts?¡±


    ¡°When are you both expecting a child?¡±


    Iris, overwhelmed, tried to push through the crowd. Ryan¡¯s bodyguards came to their rescue, helping them pass through the throng of reporters. Iris got into her car, and her driver drove off. Ryan got into his car and followed suit. They arrived home almost simultaneously.


    Iris couldn¡¯t stop crying inside the car. As soon as they pulled up to the mansion, she dashed inside, ran upstairs to her room, and locked herself in. She cried until she fell asleep on the floor, her head resting on the edge of the bed.


    She woke up to the continuous ringing of her phone and the constant knocking on the door by Ryan.


    Seeing the caller ID, she quickly wiped her eyes and cleared her voice. ¡°Hi, Sky, what¡¯s up?¡± Iris said as she picked up the call.


    ¡°Iris, I want to see you at home now,¡± her mother¡¯s weak but sharp voice said before hanging up.


    Iris¡¯s heart raced. What could be the matter? Mom sounded serious. She quickly took a shower and dressed. Her face looked pale in the mirror, but she applied light makeup to brighten her appearance.


    She headed out, praying not to bump into Ryan. Her prayers were answered as she left the house unseen.


    ***********************************


    Ryan couldn¡¯t believe what was happening. For once, he felt someone else was in control of his life. He had never felt such pain, especially seeing Iris¡¯s tears. It felt like a piercing wound in his heart.


    He couldn¡¯t wrap his head around Be¡¯s revtion. That must have been the good news Ivy wanted to tell him. How did he get into this mess? He gulped down whisky, the bitter liquid burning his throat.


    Sitting on the floor, he buried his head in his hands. His world was falling apart. He should be happy about expecting a child and securing his im to the empire, but instead, he felt anguish. It would have been different if the baby was Iris¡¯s, not Be¡¯s.


    He got up and went to Iris¡¯s room, knocking on the door, and pleading for her to talk to him. But Iris remained silent. He kept knocking until he was too tired, then headed back to his room.


    ¡°She must hate me now,¡± he muttered. ¡°But why do I care?¡± he shouted, throwing the whisky bottle at the wall, shattering it into pieces.


    Just then, Be walked into his room. ¡°Ryan, what are you doing to yourself?¡± she eximed, rushing to him.


    Ryan¡¯s disheveled state and the mess around him. ¡°Ryan, you need to pull yourself together!¡± Be said, trying to touch his arm.


    ¡°Get away from me,¡± Ryan snapped, pulling his arm away.


    ¡°Ryan, please, think about our baby,¡± Be pleaded.


    ¡°Our baby?¡± Ryanughed bitterly. ¡°You think this is about the baby? You have no idea what you¡¯ve done.¡±


    Be¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°What do you mean? We¡¯re having a baby. This is good news!¡±


    ¡°Good news?¡± Ryan¡¯s voice was a mix of anger and despair. ¡°You manipted your way into my life, and now you¡¯ve destroyed any chance I had with Iris.¡±


    ¡°Ryan, I didn¡¯t, you never love Iris, I did it for us¡­.¡±


    ¡°Save it, Be,¡± Ryan interrupted. ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear your excuses. Just get out of my house, leave me alone.¡±


    Be hesitated, but seeing the coldness in Ryan¡¯s eyes, she turned and walked out, leaving Ryan to his misery.

 Chapter 48

    Meanwhile, Iris drove to her mother¡¯s house, her mind heavy with worry and confusion. As soon as she arrived, she parked and rushed inside, heading straight to her mother¡¯s room. Finding Skr and her mother were sitting on the edge of the bed, looking frail but stern.


    ¡°Mom, Sky, what¡¯s going on?¡± Iris asked, her voice trembling.


    Her mother, looking frail but determined, gestured for Iris to sit.


    ¡°Mom, you called and sounded urgent. What is wrong? Do you feel pain? Should I call a doctor? Should we go to the hospital? Mom, talk to me,¡± Iris pleaded.


    ¡°Iris, enough!¡± her mother snapped.¡±Mom, what are you talking about?¡± Iris asked, clearly confused.


    ¡°Iris, how could you? How could you Iris? Her mother spoke.


    ¡°Iris, you got married and hid it from me? How could you?¡± Her mother¡¯s voice was shaking with anger.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been lying to me about your job. You don¡¯t have a job. You¡¯ve just beenzing around in your husband¡¯s house. You¡¯ve been deceiving everyone, especially me, your mother. I didn¡¯t raise you to be this way. What have you turned into?¡±.


    ¡°Were you so ashamed of me that you couldn¡¯t tell me about such an important thing? You abandoned me and hardlye to see me because you now have a new family, right?¡± Iris¡¯s mother spoke with so much pain that tears filled her eyes.


    ¡°Skr, I¡¯m also disappointed in you. You knew all this while and kept it a secret from me.¡±


    ¡°Mom, it¡¯s not what you think. I didn¡¯t n for all this to happen. I was going to tell you,¡± Iris exined, crying.


    ¡°Tell me when Iris? When I die? On my grave? Tell me, Iris,¡± her mother demanded. ¡°I want that marriage dissolved immediately.¡±


    ¡°Mom, I can¡¯t. It¡¯splicated. I did everything because of us. We needed help. I needed to take care of you and your condition. I had to get married, Mom,¡± Iris said, sobbing.


    Skr stood by the door, crying too.


    ¡°You had no right to do that without informing me. Dissolve that marriage, Iris, and that¡¯s final,¡± her mother insisted.


    ¡°Mom, I can¡¯t. I will, but not now,¡± Iris replied amidst tears.


    ¡°Iris, I said dissolve¡­..¡± Her mother copsed before she could finish her sentence, her voice having been raised too high.


    ¡°Mom! Mom! Mom, please wake up! I will leave the marriage. I will dissolve it¡­ Mom!!!¡± Iris and Skr cried as they called an ambnce and rushed her to the hospital.


    When they got to the hospital, their mother was immediately taken to the emergency room. Iris couldn¡¯t stop crying, and Skr tried to console her. ¡°Calm down, Iris. Mom will be fine. Please calm down.¡±


    ¡°I failed, Sky. I failed,¡± Iris continued crying. ¡°Mom is in the hospital because of me. I can¡¯t seem to get anything right. I don¡¯t want to lose Mom. She¡¯s all I have left,¡± Iris sobbed.


    ¡°Nothing will happen to Mom. She will be fine, Iris. I warned you about this whole thing,¡± Skr said softly.


    ¡°How did she find out?¡± Iris asked.


    ¡°After your fashion show, she watched when you and Ryan were leaving how those dumb reporters were asking you both questions and how you and Ryan walked out together.


    She confronted me, and I couldn¡¯t lie to her. I had to tell her.¡±Iris nodded in understanding as tears kept dripping from her eyes.


    After some minutes, the doctor walked out of the emergency room. Iris quickly approached him.


    ¡°Doctor, how is my mother?¡± she asked, with Skr standing behind her.


    ¡°Can we talk in my office?¡± the doctor replied as he walked, Iris and Skr following him.


    ¡°Your mother was stressed and in shock, which led her to fall into aa. Right now, she¡¯s not responding to treatment, but I hope she will soon. We need to monitor her closely,¡± the doctor exined.


    At this, Iris¡¯s already wet eyes began to flow with another set of tears.¡±Secondly, her kidney condition has worsened. She needs a transnt as soon as possible, or she might not hold on for long.


    But we have to wait for her to get out of thea before we can start any further treatment.¡±


    Iris felt her world crumbling as she stared at the doctor, unable to process the magnitude of what she had just heard. Her mother¡¯s condition had deteriorated, and she needed a kidney transnt. The guilt of hiding her marriage weighed heavily on her heart, and now her mother was in aa.


    She was speechless. She didn¡¯t know what to say. Words escaped her, and the world around her began to spin as she felt utterly defeated.


    ¡°Iris, are you okay?¡± Skr¡¯s voice cut through the fog of her thoughts.


    Iris nodded weakly, wiping away the tears that had begun to fall anew. ¡°Yes, Sky, I¡¯ll be fine. I just need a moment.¡±


    The doctor cleared his throat gently. ¡°We will continue to monitor your mother closely, and we¡¯ll keep you updated on any changes. In the meantime, you should try to get some rest and take care of yourself.


    ¡°Iris nodded again, barely hearing his words. She felt numb as she followed Skr out of the doctor¡¯s office and into the waiting area.


    She sat down heavily in one of the chairs, her mind racing.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe this is happening,¡± Iris whispered, her voice breaking.


    Skr sat beside her, putting an arm around her shoulders. ¡°Iris, I¡¯m so sorry. I should have been more supportive. I should have found a way to protect you both.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault, Sky,¡± Iris said, shaking her head. ¡°I made my choices, and now I have to deal with the consequences.¡±


    They sat in silence for a while, both lost in their thoughts. The sterile smell of the hospital and the murmur of voices around them only heightened the sense of despair that hung in the air.


    Finally, Skr broke the silence. ¡°Iris, what are you going to do now?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Iris admitted. ¡°I need to find a way to save my mom. I can¡¯t lose her, Sky. She¡¯s all I have left.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll figure something out,¡± Skr said firmly. ¡°We¡¯ll get through this together.¡±Iris nodded, grateful for her friend¡¯s unwavering support. ¡°Thank you, Sky. I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do without you.¡±


    As they sat there, the sound of footsteps approaching caught their attention. Iris looked up to see Ryan walking towards them, a concerned expression on his face.


    ¡°Iris, I came as soon as I heard,¡± Ryan said, his voice filled with worry. ¡°How¡¯s your mother?¡±


    Iris¡¯s eyes filled with tears again. ¡°She¡¯s in aa, Ryan. And she needs a kidney transnt. I don¡¯t know what to do.


    ¡°Ryan reached out to take her hand, but Iris pulled away, the pain and betrayal still fresh in her mind.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    ¡°Iris, please let me help,¡± Ryan said softly. ¡°I know I¡¯ve hurt you, but I want to make things right.¡±


    ¡°How can you make things right, Ryan?¡± Iris asked, her voice shaking. ¡°Be is pregnant with your child. You betrayed me.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s eyes widened. ¡± Iris, I had no idea until that day at the show. I swear.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t lie to me, Ryan,¡± Iris snapped. ¡°I heard it from her mouth.¡±


    ¡°Iris, I promise you, I didn¡¯t know,¡± Ryan said, his voice pleading.


    ¡°Let me help you and your mother. Please, I owe you that as my wife.¡±


    Skr stood up, cing herself between Iris and Ryan.


    ¡°Ryan, maybe you should give Iris some space right now. She¡¯s been through a lot.¡±Ryan looked desperate, but he nodded reluctantly. ¡°Alright.


    But Iris, please call me if you need anything. I¡¯ll do whatever it takes to help.¡±Iris didn¡¯t respond, and Ryan slowly walked away, leaving her and Skr alone once more.


    As the days passed and turned into weeks, Iris spent most of her time at the hospital, sitting by her mother¡¯s bedside and praying for her recovery. She barely ate or slept, consumed by worry and guilt. Skr visited often, bringing food and trying to get her to take care of herself.


    ¡°Mom, please wake up,¡± Iris whispered, holding her mother¡¯s hand gently. ¡°I need you. We need you.¡±


    Skr sat in a chair nearby, her eyes red from crying. ¡°She¡¯s a fighter, Iris. She¡¯ll pull through this.¡±Iris nodded, but her heart was heavy with worry.


    The weight of her mother¡¯s condition,bined with theplexities of her own life, felt unbearable.


    Just then, the door opened, and Dr. Evans walked in, carrying a clipboard. He looked at the two women, a sympathetic expression on his face.


    ¡°How are you holding up?¡± Dr. Evans asked, looking directly at Iris.


    ¡°We¡¯re managing,¡± Iris replied, her voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°Any change in her condition?¡± Dr. Evans shook his head. ¡°Not yet, but we¡¯re monitoring her closely.


    Sometimes, it takes time for the body to heal.¡±Iris swallowed hard, fighting back tears. ¡°Is there anything we can do? Anything at all?¡±Dr. Evans sighed.


    ¡°Just keep talking to her. Sometimes,a patients can hear what¡¯s going on around them. Your presence and your voice might help.¡±


    Skr nodded, squeezing Iris¡¯s hand. ¡°We¡¯ll be here, doctor. We won¡¯t leave her.¡±


    After Dr. Evans left, Iris sank into the chair next to her mother¡¯s bed, exhausted both physically and emotionally.


    ¡°Sky, I don¡¯t know how much longer I can do this. It¡¯s all too much.¡±Skr wrapped an arm around Iris. ¡°We¡¯ll get through this, Iris. We have to.¡±


    Iris stood by her mother¡¯s hospital bed, the rhythmic beeping of the machines a constant reminder of the fragility of life. Jessica¡¯s face was pale, her body still. Thea had taken a toll on her, and every day seemed like an eternity for Iris.


    ****************************************


    Back at the mansion, Ryan was pacing his room, feeling the weight of the day¡¯s events crushing him.


    He picked up his phone and called his assistant


    .¡±Get me the best nephrologist in the country,¡± Ryan ordered. ¡°I don¡¯t care what it costs. Just make it happen.¡±


    His assistant, used to Ryan¡¯s urgent demands, replied, ¡°Right away, sir.¡±Ryan hung up and sat down, his head in his hands.


    He felt like he was losing control of everything. The image of Iris¡¯s tear-streaked face haunted him. He knew he had to make things right, not just for her but for himself too.

 Chapter 49

    One evening, In the dimly lit hallway, Dr. Parker pulled her into a secluded corner. ¡°We can¡¯t keep going like this,¡± he whispered urgently. ¡°Someone could catch on.


    ¡°She nodded, her eyes darting around nervously. ¡°I know. But it¡¯s hard to stay away from you, We need a n.¡±Dr. Parker leaned in, his lips brushing against hers. ¡°We¡¯ll find a way. We always do.¡±


    ¡°Their conversation was cut short by the sound of a car approaching. They quickly separated, trying to appear casual.


    The car drove past without stopping, but the close call left them shaken.


    Parker nodded, his expression grim. ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out. Just promise me we¡¯ll stay together.¡±


    ¡°I promise,¡± she replied, her heart heavy with the weight of their secret.


    ************


    Iris sat by the window, staring out at the hospital garden, her friend Emma arrived with coffee and sandwiches.


    ¡°I thought you could use a break,¡± Emma said, handing Iris a cup.¡±Thanks,¡± Iris said, taking a sip. ¡°I didn¡¯t realize how hungry I was.¡±Emma sat down next to her.


    ¡°How are you holding up?¡±Iris shrugged. ¡°I don¡¯t know. It feels like my whole world is falling apart. First, the drama with Ryan, and now this.


    ¡°Emma reached out and squeezed her hand. ¡°You¡¯re strong, Iris. You¡¯ll get through this. And your mom will too.¡±


    ***************************


    One afternoon, as Rose prepared to leave the house for another ndestine meeting, Ivy approached her.


    ¡°Mom, where are you going?¡± Ivy asked, her tone casual but her eyes curious.


    Rose hesitated for a moment before replying. ¡°I have a meeting with the charity board. It¡¯s important.


    ¡°Ivy nodded, epting the exnation without suspicion. ¡°Okay. Have a good meeting.¡±


    As Rose walked away, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of guilt. Deceiving her children was the hardest part of everything, but she convinced herself it was necessary to protect them from the truth.


    *********************************


    After an especially intense argument with her Husband, she sought sce in Dr. Parker¡¯s arms. As the sun set and the city lights flickered on, she found herself at Parker¡¯s doorstep. He weed her with a tender kiss, pulling her inside.


    They sat on the couch, the tension between them palpable.¡±I¡¯ve missed you,¡± Dr.  Parker whispered, his hand gently caressing her cheek. She smiled, leaning into his touch. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you too. It¡¯s been too long.¡±


    Dr. Parker sighed, his expression turning serious. ¡°This is getting harder, honey, the secrecy, the lies. It¡¯s taking a toll on both of us.¡±she nodded, her eyes reflecting the same weariness. ¡°I know. But what choice do we have? We can¡¯t let anyone find out yet. It would destroy everything.¡±


    They sat on the couch, their hands entwined, a ss of wine each in their hands.


    ¡°And that is why we need to act fast, we should have ended him when you had the chance,¡± she said.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Dr. Parker looked at her, his eyes filled with a mixture of desire and guilt.¡± I wanted to but you asked me to hold on, remember?. I can¡¯t help how I feel about you, seeing you with them as a family keeps breaking me¡±.


    She sighed, resting her head on his shoulder. ¡°I know. I feel the same way. But it¡¯s soplicated.¡±Dr. Parker kissed the top of her head. ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out. Somehow, we just need a perfect n on how to end him getting ess to everything¡±


    ¡°Dr. Parker held her close, his heart aching for her. ¡°I know. I wish things were different. But I¡¯m here for you, no matter what.


    ¡°She looked into his eyes, findingfort in his words. ¡°I don¡¯t know how much longer I can keep this up.¡±


    ***************************


    Next week, as Iris sat holding her mother¡¯s hand, she felt a soft squeeze.


    She looked up, her heart pounding with hope.¡±Mom?¡± Iris whispered, tears filling her eyes


    . Her mother¡¯s eyes fluttered open, and she gave Iris a weak smile.


    ¡°Iris,¡± she said softly. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry.¡±


    ¡°No, Mom, I¡¯m sorry,¡± Iris said, her voice choked with emotion. ¡°I should have told you everything.


    I should have been honest.¡±Her mother shook her head gently. ¡°I understand why you did it, Iris. You were trying to take care of me. But you don¡¯t have to do it alone.¡±


    ¡°I love you, Mom,¡± Iris said, tears streaming down her face.¡±I love you too, Iris,¡± her mother replied, her voice weak but filled with love.


    As the days went on, Iris¡¯s mother began to improve, but the need for a kidney transnt remained urgent. Iris and Skr searched tirelessly for a donor, but time was running out.


    One evening still at the hospital, she felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Ryan standing there. ¡°Ryan, what are you doing here?¡± she asked, her voice filled with bitterness


    ¡°Because I care about you, Iris. Despite everything, I care,¡± Ryan replied.


    Iris shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s toote for that, Ryan. Too much has happened, just leave, I can handle things.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ryan said quietly. ¡°But I¡¯m not giving up on you or your mom. I¡¯ll do whatever it takes to help.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I can trust you,¡± Iris admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°Just let me try,¡± Ryan pleaded. ¡°Please.¡±


    Before Iris could respond, the doctor walked in. ¡°Mrs. Kendrick, can I speak with you for a moment?¡±


    Iris nodded and followed the doctor into the hallway. ¡°What is it, Doctor?¡± she asked, her heart pounding.


    ¡°We¡¯ve found a potential donor for your mother,¡± the doctor said. ¡°But there¡¯s a catch. The donor is in another city, and we need to act fast.¡±


    ¡°How fast?¡± Iris asked, her mind racing.


    ¡°Within the next 24 hours,¡± the doctor replied.


    Iris felt a surge of hope mixed with anxiety. ¡°We¡¯ll do whatever it takes. Just tell us what needs to be done.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll need to transport your mother there and prepare for the surgery,¡± the doctor exined. ¡°It¡¯s going to be expensive andplicated, but it can be done.¡±


    Ryan, who had been listening from a distance, stepped forward. ¡°I¡¯ll cover all the costs. Just make it happen


    ¡°The doctor nodded. ¡°Alright. We¡¯ll start making arrangements immediately.¡±


    As the doctor walked away, Iris turned to Ryan, her eyes filled with a mixture of gratitude and confusion.


    ¡°Why are you doing this?¡±


    ¡°Because I care about you and your mother,¡± Ryan said simply. ¡°And because it¡¯s the right thing to do.¡±


    Iris didn¡¯t know what to say.


    For the first time in a long while, she felt a glimmer of hope. ¡°Thank you,¡± she said quietly.


    Ryan nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s just focus on getting your mom better.


    ¡°The next 24 hours were a whirlwind of activity. Her mother was transported to the hospital, and the medical team prepared for the surgery.


    Iris and Skr stayed by their mother¡¯s side, praying for a miracle.


    As the surgery began, Iris sat in the waiting room, her nerves on edge.


    Ryan sat beside her, offering silent support. Hourster, the doctor emerged from the operating room.


    ¡°The surgery was a sess,¡± he announced. ¡°Your mother is stable and will need close monitoring, but she¡¯s going to be okay.


    ¡°Tears of relief streamed down Iris¡¯s face. ¡°Thank you, Doctor. Thank you so much.¡±Ryan squeezed her hand gently.


    ¡°She¡¯s going to be okay, Iris.¡±For the first time in what felt like forever, Iris allowed herself to hope.


    ¡°Yes, she is. And maybe, just maybe, things will start getting better.¡±


    Back at the mansion, Mrs Rose couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of foreboding, as she sat alone in the living room, Mr Kendrick joined her. He looked at her with a mix of concern and suspicion.


    ¡°Honey,  is everything alright?¡± he asked, his voice gentle.


    Rose forced a smile, nodding. ¡°Yes, everything is fine. Just a bit tired.¡±


    Kendrick studied her for a moment, then nodded. ¡°If you ever need to talk, I¡¯m here.¡±


    Mrs. Rose felt a pang of guilt. As Kendrick left the room, Rose¡¯s phone buzzed with a message. She nced at the screen, her heart racing. It was a simple message, but it filled her with both hope and fear. ¡°Everything will be over soon¡±.


    ********************************


    Be remembered how her hands trembled as she clutched the pregnancy test, her heart pounding in her chest.


    The two lines staring back at her confirmed what she both dreaded and hoped for, she was pregnant.


    Her mind raced with thoughts of how to break the news to Ryan, the man she had always envisioned as her future husband, despite the contract marriage that bound him to Iris. Be¡¯s desire to secure her ce in Ryan¡¯s life had never been more urgent.

 Chapter 50

    She dialed Ryan¡¯s number, her fingers shaking with anticipation. The call went straight to voicemail. Frustrated, she tried again, and again, with the same result.


    Be threw her phone onto the bed in exasperation, her mind spinning with scenarios of where Ryan could be, for weeks now she has been unable to reach him.


    Be paced her apartment, frustration seeping into every corner of her mind. She had imagined that announcing her pregnancy to Ryan would finally make him see her worth, solidify her ce in his life, and distance him from Iris.


    But the reality was a cruel twist. Since her announcement, Ryan had be more distant, leaving her to stew in uncertainty


    . Determined to confront him, Be made her way to Ryan¡¯s office, only to find Luca, his best friend, instead.


    ¡°Luca, where¡¯s Ryan? I need to speak with him,¡± Be demanded, her voiceced with irritation.


    Luca looked up from his desk, his expression calm. ¡°Be, he hasn¡¯t been in for days. He just dropped by briefly to check some stuff and dashed out. Haven¡¯t you tried calling him?¡±


    Be¡¯s face tightened with frustration. ¡°Of course, I have! His phone goes straight to voicemail.¡±


    Luca shrugged, a sympathetic look crossing his face. ¡°Maybe he¡¯s busy with something important. Try not to worry too much.¡±Be stormed out, her frustration mounting.


    She drove to Ryan¡¯s house, and the drive to Ryan¡¯s mansion felt interminable.


    When she finally arrived, the house seemed eerily quiet. She rang the doorbell and waited, tapping her foot impatiently. After what felt like an eternity, the door opened, revealing Sarah the house help.


    ¡°Sarah, is Ryan home?¡± Be asked, trying to mask her desperation.


    Sarah shook her head. ¡°No, ma¡¯am. Ryan and Iris have been away. Iris¡¯s mother is ill, and he¡¯s been there for her.¡±Be¡¯s eyes widened in fury.


    ¡°So Iris is more important than his child?¡± she muttered under her breath. Sarah¡¯s ears perked up. ¡°Child?¡± she asked, curiosity piqued.


    Be shot her a hard stare. ¡°Never mind,¡± she snapped but then reconsidered.


    ¡°Sarah, please call me when he gets back. Here¡¯s my number.¡± She handed Sarah a card.


    Sarah took it with a nod. As Be left, Sarah quickly picked up her phone and dialed a number.


    ¡°Hello, sir. There¡¯s something I need to tell you¡­¡­.


    ¡°Be, confused and angry, He isn¡¯t at the office nor is he at home.


    She stopped by a bar to clear her mind with a drink. She needed to figure out her next move.


    Be¡¯s mind reyed every interaction she¡¯d had with Ryan, each moment stoking her determination.


    She would not be sidelined so easily. This pregnancy was her trump card, and she intended to use it to secure her ce in Ryan¡¯s life once and for all.


    Back inside the mansion, Sarah closed the door with a satisfied smile. She twirled around the empty house, pleased with how she had handled Be¡¯s intrusion.


    At the hospital, Iris sat by her mother¡¯s bedside, her hand gently resting on Jessica¡¯s. The room was filled with the soft beeping of medical monitors and the faint scent of antiseptic.


    Jessica¡¯s condition had stabilized, but she still needed time to heal and recover. Iris had been a constant presence at her side, her heartache pushed aside in favor of her mother¡¯s well-being.


    Ryan entered the room quietly, not wanting to disturb the peaceful atmosphere. He ced aforting hand on Iris¡¯s shoulder,  his presence immediatelyforting Iris. ¡°How is she?¡± he asked, nodding to Skr in greeting.


    ¡°The doctor said she¡¯s not improving yet,¡± Iris replied, her voice tinged with frustration. Ryan nodded, pulling up a chair beside her.


    ¡°Do we need to take her to another hospital? Our family doctor can take care of her, and the facilities there are very good.¡±


    ¡°No need for that, Ryan,¡± Iris said, shaking her head. ¡°The doctor said moving her wouldn¡¯t be a good idea. She just needs rest, and this hospital is good too. You¡¯ve done a lot already. I don¡¯t want to stress you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, Iris,¡± Ryan said, his eyes locking with hers. ¡°I would dly do more.¡±They were both lost in each other¡¯s gaze until Skr, trying to sneak out, bumped into the door, causing them to turn.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay, sorry for the interference,¡± Skr said, wincing in pain. ¡°I want to go get food for us. I¡¯ll be right back.¡± She hurried out, leaving Iris and Ryan smiling.


    Just then, Ryan¡¯s phone rang. He pulled it from his suit pocket and nced at the caller ID. He noticed Iris¡¯s eyes fixed on his phone, her countenance changing at the name she saw.


    ¡°Who is it?¡± Iris asked, her voice barely masking her curiosity and hint of jealousy


    Ryan hesitated for a moment before answering. ¡°It¡¯s Be.¡±Iris¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°You should answer it.¡±Ryan sighed and stepped out into the hallway to take the call. ¡°Be, what is it?¡±


    ¡°Ryan, where have you been? I¡¯ve been trying to reach you!¡± Be¡¯s voice was a mixture of anger and desperation.


    ¡°I¡¯m at the hospital with Iris. Her mother is very ill,¡± Ryan replied, trying to keep his voice calm.


    ¡°I thought you didn¡¯t love her! Why are you suddenly so attached to her?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s my wife, Be,¡± his voice softened. ¡°I need to be there for her.¡±Be clenched her fists, her mind racing.


    ¡°So Iris is more important than our child?¡± Be spat, her wordsced with venom.


    Ryan¡¯s patience wore thin. ¡°Be, this isn¡¯t the time. I¡¯ll talk to youter.¡± He hung up and took a deep breath before re-entering the room.


    ¡°Everything okay?¡± Iris asked, her concern genuine. Ryan nodded, forcing a smile. ¡°Yeah, just some minor stuff.¡±


    Iris didn¡¯t press further, but she could sense the tension. She ced a reassuring hand on his arm. ¡°Thank you for being here.


    ¡°Ryan covered her hand with his own. ¡°I¡¯m here for both of you. Whatever you need.¡±Iris leaned into him, grateful for his support.


    Despite theplicated nature of their rtionship, she hade to rely on Ryan¡¯s steady presence during this difficult time.


    Back at the bar, Be drained her ss and signaled for another. Her mind raced with thoughts of how to reim Ryan¡¯s attention.


    Her thoughts are a whirlwind of anger and desperation. ¡°I need to act fast,¡± she muttered to herself. ¡°I can¡¯t let Iris ruin everything I¡¯ve worked for.¡±She gulped down her drink, her mind formting a n.


    Sarah, having finished her call, continued her duties, the secret conversation weighing on her mind.


    She knew that the information she had shared could have significant repercussions, but she also knew it was the right thing to do.


    As night fell, Ryan and Iris remained by Jessica¡¯s side, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment.


    Unbeknownst to them, the storm brewing outside the hospital walls threatened to upend their fragile peace.


    Meanwhile, Be¡¯s mind was a whirlwind of schemes and ns. She needed to ensure that Ryan epted the pregnancy, but she had to do it in a way that would guarantee he would choose her over Iris.


    Days turned into weeks with still no word from Ryan, and Be grew increasingly anxious. She had expected Ryan to reach out to her and know how she was faring now she was pregnant with their child.


    But there had been no word from him. She decided to take matters into her own hands once again. Be returned to Ryan¡¯s mansion, determined to confront him directly this time.


    She parked her car in the driveway and marched up to the front door, her heart pounding. She rang the doorbell and waited, her patience wearing thin. Finally, the door opened, and Ryan stood before her, looking both surprised and wary.


    ¡°Be, what are you doing here?¡± he asked, his tone guarded.


    . Be pushed past him, stepping into the foyer. ¡°We need to talk, Ryan.


    ¡°Ryan closed the door behind her, his expression unreadable. ¡°Alright, what¡¯s this about?¡±


    Be took a deep breath, steeling herself. ¡°I¡¯m pregnant, Ryan. And it¡¯s your child.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve taken multiple tests. There¡¯s no doubt about it.¡± Be said her voice steady.


    Ryan ran a hand through his hair, his mind racing. ¡°This¡­ this changes everything.¡±


    Be stepped closer, her eyes pleading. ¡°Ryan, I know thisplicates things, but we need to figure out what to do. We can¡¯t ignore this.¡±Ryan sighed, his shoulders slumping. ¡°I need some time to think, Be. This is a lot to process.¡±


    Be¡¯s heart sank, but she nodded. ¡°I understand. But please, don¡¯t take too long. We need to make a n.¡±Ryan nodded his mind elsewhere. ¡°I¡¯ll call you soon, Be. I promise.¡±This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    As Be left the mansion, she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of unease that had settled in her stomach. She had expected Ryan to react more decisively, but his hesitation left her feeling uncertain. She knew she needed to act fast because she couldn¡¯t wait.

 Chapter 51

    The next morning, she ced a call to Mrs. Rose Kendrick.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose, it¡¯s Be, I need to talk to you. It¡¯s urgent.¡±


    Mrs. Rose, detecting the worry in Be¡¯s voice, invited her over to the mansion.


    Be couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of satisfaction as she prepared to leave.


    Upon arriving at the Kendrick mansion, Be was led to the sitting room. She sat nervously, her mind rehearsing what she was going to say.


    A bodyguard informed Mrs. Rose of Be¡¯s presence, and soon, Mrs. Rose appeared, looking as regal andposed as ever.


    ¡°Be, what¡¯s the matter?¡± Mrs. Rose asked, her voice calm butmanding.


    Be hesitated, her fingers fidgeting. ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m pregnant, Mrs. Rose. It¡¯s Ryan¡¯s child. I¡¯ve had countless tests, and they all came back positive.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s expression shifted from curiosity to a wide, almost triumphant smile. She moved closer to Be, touching her hair and holding her hands.


    ¡°Are you sure about this, Be?¡±Be nodded. ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, we can go to the hospital together.¡±Mrs. Rose shook her head. ¡°There¡¯s no need for that.


    Finally, I¡¯m going to be a grandmother. That good-for-nothing Iris can leave my son alone.¡±


    Be felt a wave of relief and a sly smile spread across her face. ¡°Have you told Ryan about this?¡± Mrs. Rose asked.


    ¡°Yes, but since then he¡¯s been avoiding me. He¡¯s been at the hospital with Iris for weeks now.¡±


    ¡°Hospital? What are they doing there?¡± Mrs. Rose¡¯s voice filled with concern.


    ¡°Iris¡¯s mother is ill, so he¡¯s been there with her.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s face twisted with anger. ¡°Iris¡¯s mother? And that¡¯s why he¡¯s ignoring the fact that you¡¯re carrying his child?¡±


    Be nodded. ¡°Exactly. What should I do?¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, my dear. I know what to do. Just go home and rest. Don¡¯t stress my grandchild. I will handle this.¡±


    Be left the mansion feeling a surge of satisfaction. Her n wasing together perfectly.


    Mrs. Rose watched Be leave, then went upstairs to her room to break the news to her husband.


    ¡°Honey, Be is pregnant with our grandchild,¡± she said, smiling.¡±Stop saying rubbish, Rose,¡± Mr. Kendrick replied, flipping through his newspaper.


    He looked up to see his wife¡¯s serious expression. ¡°Wait, are you serious?¡±


    ¡°Do I look like I¡¯m joking? I¡¯m dead serious, honey.¡±Mr. Kendrick¡¯s face went pale.


    ¡°Pregnant? How? When? Why? For whom?¡±


    ¡°Calm down, honey. It¡¯s great news. We finally have an heir.


    Be was smart enough to give us what we wanted. We should be happy.¡±


    ¡°But Ryan is married. What about Iris?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s going to be thrown out. We didn¡¯t want her in the first ce.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not fair, Rose. Iris is Ryan¡¯s choice and his wife. If Ivy were treated this way, would you like it?¡±


    ¡°Oh, Ken, stopparing my daughter to that whore. She has ss and taste, unlike Iris.¡±


    ¡°Honey,¡± Mrs. Rose said, walking close to him and holding his hands, ¡°we¡¯re supposed to be happy and celebrate. We finally get what we wanted. You can finally release the empire to Ryan.


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick looked at his wife, not knowing what else to say. ¡°This isn¡¯t right, Rose,¡± he said finally, going back to his newspaper


    .¡±Don¡¯t worry, honey. Leave it to me,¡± she said, picking up her phone and walking out of the room.


    Once she was outside, she dialed a number. ¡°Hello, I have a job for you. Don¡¯t fail me this time.¡±


    Be couldn¡¯t shake her excitement as she drove home. Her n was unfolding perfectly.


    Later that evening, Mr. Kendrick sat alone in his study, his mind a storm of conflicting thoughts.


    The news of Be¡¯s pregnancy had shaken him to his core. He couldn¡¯t understand how his son could be so reckless, even within the confines of a contracted marriage.


    Mrs. Rose entered the room quietly, closing the door behind her. ¡°Darling, are you alright?¡±Mr. Kendrick looked up, his eyes weary. ¡°No, Rose, I¡¯m not. This is a disaster.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose moved to his side, cing aforting hand on his shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s not as bad as you think. Be¡¯s pregnancy is a good thing. It means we can finally have the family we always wanted for Ryan.¡±Mr. Kendrick shook his head.


    ¡°You don¡¯t see it, do you? This isn¡¯t just about Ryan or Be. It¡¯s about our family¡¯s reputation, our legacy.


    Ryan is married to Iris, and now he¡¯s fathered a child with another woman. It¡¯s a scandal waiting to happen.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes hardened. ¡°Iris is a problem we can solve.


    Be is the one who belongs with Ryan. You know that.¡±


    Iris POV


    I watched Ryan step out to answer his call. I knew who it was, but I pretended not to notice.


    My heart pounded, jealousy boiling within me. It was Be. The thought of her being pregnant while I wasn¡¯t change everything.


    I knew Ivy and Mrs. Rose hated me, and Mr. Kendrick remained neutral.


    Be¡¯s hatred for me was inexplicable. Ryan got her pregnant while still married to me. He cheated and used me of being a cheat and a whore.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    He even pped me in front of Be. Now, here he is, pretending to care.


    Ryan returned, looking troubled. His phone rang again. He nced at me, then hurried out, signaling he had to go. I guessed it was his mother this time.


    My heart sank further. Why was he leaving so abruptly? I looked at my mom, still lying there, not getting any better.


    Ryan, who was supposed to be by my side, was having a child soon. Of what use was I? He didn¡¯t really care.


    He was just here out of pity, nothing more. My life has been one problem after another. I felt worthless, shattered.


    ******************


    Ivy arrived home, calling out for her mother. ¡°Mom, Mom?¡±She searched the house and eventually found Mrs. Rose emerging from Mr. Kendrick¡¯s library.


    ¡°Young woman, what are you doing, snooping around?¡± Mrs. Rose asked, her tone sharp.


    ¡°Mum, you scared me,¡± Ivy said, holding her chest. ¡°I wasn¡¯t snooping. I was looking for you.¡±


    ¡°Looking for me? Really?¡± Mrs. Rose walked to her room, Ivy following behind.


    ¡°Be is pregnant with your brother¡¯s child,¡± Mrs. Rose announced, her face beaming with pride.¡±I know, Mom,¡± Ivy replied, rolling her eyes as she sat on the sofa.¡±You knew?¡± Mrs. Rose asked, surprised.


    ¡°Yes, she told me weeks ago,¡± Ivy replied nonchntly.¡±And you didn¡¯t tell me? Why?¡± Mrs. Rose asked, incredulous.¡±Well, it wasn¡¯t my ce to say anything. I didn¡¯t know if it was true,¡± Ivy replied.


    Mrs. Rose eyed Ivy suspiciously. ¡°Why are you behaving so strangely? Aren¡¯t you happy about the news?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know why, but I feel odd about the whole thing,¡± Ivy admitted. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to interfere, so I kept quiet.¡±


    ¡°Are you going soft on Iris?¡± Mrs. Rose asked, her tone sharp.


    ¡°Never!¡± Ivy eximed. ¡°I despise Iris. I¡¯d never go soft on her.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Mrs. Rose said. ¡°By the way, what¡¯s been keeping you so busytely?¡±Ivy¡¯s face lit up.


    ¡°After the fashion show, a lot of top brands were amazed by my designs. They offered me coborations. I¡¯ve been busy. Soon, I¡¯ll be the number one fashion designer and model in the world.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose beamed with pride. ¡°You¡¯re so hardworking and focused. I¡¯m proud of you. But I have to ask you something important.


    At the show, you showcased many amazing pieces, which you said you drew yourself. We both know you can¡¯t draw or sketch. So how did those designse about?¡±


    Ivy¡¯s eyes widened, clearly ufortable. ¡°Well, Mum¡­¡± she began, struggling to find the right words. Mrs. Rose leaned in, her eyes narrowing.


    ¡°Tell me the truth, Ivy.¡±Ivy sighed, realizing she couldn¡¯t lie her way out. ¡°Okay, Mum. I didn¡¯t design those pieces myself. I hired a talented designer to create them. I knew I needed something extraordinary to make a mark, so I paid for the best.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose¡¯s expression softened. ¡°I appreciate your honesty, Ivy. Just make sure you give credit where it¡¯s due. It¡¯s important to maintain integrity in our family.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mum,¡± Ivy said, relieved after telling a lie. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure of it.¡±


    Iris POV¡­¡­¡­


    Meanwhile, back at the hospital, I felt a heavy weight settle in my chest.


    My mother¡¯s condition wasn¡¯t improving, and Ryan¡¯s sudden departure only added to my despair.


    I couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling of being utterly alone.


    Skr returned with food, breaking the tense silence. ¡°Here¡¯s some food. You need to eat, Iris.¡±I managed a weak smile. ¡°Thank you, Skr. You¡¯re always so thoughtful.¡±


    ¡°Anything for you and Aunt Jessica,¡± Skr said, her tone earnest.


    As we ate in silence, my mind wandered back to Ryan and Be. How could he cheat on me and get Be pregnant? I felt a surge of anger and betrayal.


    Ryan had promised to be there for me, yet he was always distracted, always somewhere else. The door creaked open, and I looked up to see Ryan entering the room. He looked exhausted, but there was determination in his eyes.


    ¡°Iris, I need to talk to you,¡± he said, his voice low.

 Chapter 52

    I nodded, bracing myself for whatever he had to say.¡±I¡¯m sorry I had to leave suddenly,¡± he began. ¡°There are some things I need to exin.¡±I crossed my arms, not trusting myself to speak. My emotions were too raw, too close to the surface.


    ¡°Be is pregnant,¡± he said bluntly, watching my reaction closely.


    I felt a cold wave of nausea wash over me, but I kept my expression neutral. ¡°I know,¡± I said quietly.¡±I didn¡¯t want it to happen,¡± Ryan said, running a hand through his hair. ¡°It was a mistake, and I regret it deeply. But now I need to take responsibility for the child.¡±


    ¡°And what about me?¡± I asked, my voice trembling. ¡°What about our marriage?¡±Ryan looked pained. ¡°Iris, I care about you deeply. I made a terrible mistake, but I want to make things right. I¡¯ll support Be and the baby, but I don¡¯t want to lose you.¡±


    His words were a jumbled mess in my mind. Could I really trust him? Could I forgive him? Before I could respond, Skr¡¯s phone rang, and she stepped out to take the call. The room fell into an awkward silence.


    Ryan reached for my hand, but I pulled away. ¡°I need time to think,¡± I said, my voice barely above a whisper.


    He nodded, looking defeated. ¡°I understand. I¡¯ll give you space.¡±As he left, Skr returned, looking concerned. ¡°Iris, we need to talk.¡±This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°What is it?¡± I asked, feeling a new wave of dread.¡±It was a call from Mrs. Rose. She wants to meet with you. She said it¡¯s urgent.¡±I felt my stomach drop. What could Mrs. Rose possibly want now? My mind raced with possibilities, none of them good.¡±I¡¯ll go,¡± I said, standing up.


    ¡°I need to face her sooner orter.¡±Skr nodded. ¡°Do you want me toe with you?¡±I shook my head. ¡°No, I need to do this alone.¡±As I left the hospital and headed to the Kendrick mansion, my mind was a whirlwind of emotions.


    Betrayal, anger, fear, and a glimmer of hope all fought for dominance. I had no idea what awaited me, but I knew I had to be strong


    . Mrs. Rose greeted me with a cold smile as I entered the mansion. ¡°Iris, thank you foring.¡±


    ¡°What do you want, Mrs. Rose?¡± I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.


    She motioned for me to sit. ¡°We need to discuss the future. Specifically, your future in this family.¡±I felt a chill run down my spine.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±Mrs. Rose leaned forward, her eyes gleaming with malice.


    ¡°Be is pregnant with Ryan¡¯s child. You understand what that means, don¡¯t you?¡± My heart sank. ¡°I understand.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± she said, her smile widening. ¡°Then you know that it¡¯s time for you to step aside. Ryan needs to focus on his future with Be and their child. There¡¯s no ce for you here anymore.


    ¡°I felt a surge of defiance. ¡°I¡¯m still his wife. You can¡¯t just push me out.¡±


    ¡°Oh, but I can,¡± Mrs. Rose said, her voice dripping with venom. ¡°And I will. You have two choices, Iris. Leave quietly and spare yourself the humiliation, or stay and be destroyed. The choice is yours.¡±


    My mind raced. I had no intention of leaving quietly. But I needed a n, and I needed it fast.¡±I¡¯ll think about it,¡± I said, standing up.¡±Take all the time you need,¡± Mrs. Rose said, her smile never wavering. ¡°But remember, the clock is ticking.¡±


    As I left the mansion, my mind was already working on a n. Mrs. Rose wanted to destroy me, but she had no idea who she was up against. I was done being a victim. It was time to fight back.


    And with that, I headed back to the hospital, my resolve stronger than ever. The next steps would be crucial, and I couldn¡¯t afford any mistakes. The battle lines were drawn, and I was ready to face whatever came next.


    Iris left the Kendrick mansion, her heart heavy with pain and hurt. Lost in thought, she walked aimlessly down the street, almost getting hit by a speeding car.


    The driver, with quick reflexes, managed to brake in time. Iris flinched in fear, copsing onto the pavement.


    The driver, a young man in his early thirties with piercing blue eyes, rushed out and helped her into his car.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± he asked, concern etched on his face.


    Iris could only nod weakly before she copsed. The man quickly drove her to the nearest hospital.


    She was attended to immediately, and the doctors stitched up a small bruise on her head. A few hourster, she woke up in an unfamiliar room.


    She tried to get up, pulling at the tubes connected to her. A nurse hurried in. ¡°Please, rx. You need to rest. Your blood pressure is dangerously high. It¡¯s not healthy for your condition.


    ¡°Iris frowned. ¡°What do you mean by ¡®condition¡¯?¡±


    The nurse gave her a gentle smile. ¡°You¡¯re four weeks pregnant.¡±


    Iris¡¯s world spun, and she fainted.


    Back at the Kendrick mansion, Ivy and Mrs. Rose continued their conversation.¡±Go on, I¡¯m listening,¡± Mrs. Rose said, her tone curious.


    ¡°Ivy snapped out of her thoughts where she had already told her mum she paid for it; well, there was no need to lie; Iris was going to be thrown out of their family soon.


    ¡°Well, Mum, the sketches weren¡¯t mine. I took them from Iris,¡± Ivy confessed.


    Mrs. Rose raised an eyebrow. ¡°Iris? Did you steal her designs? How? When?¡±


    ¡°I found the sketchbook in her room and took it; I went through them and saw amazing sketches. She must have known at the fashion show but couldn¡¯t confront me. Maybe she was too distracted by her fight with Ryan,¡± Ivy replied.


    Mrs. Rose chuckled. ¡°Good for her. You did the right thing. Those designs were wasted in her hands. Now they¡¯re where they belong. Well done, honey.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not mad at me?¡± Ivy asked, relief evident in her voice.¡±Mad? No way. I¡¯m proud of you, dear.¡±Ivy sighed with relief and smiled.


    ¡°Now, let¡¯s focus on getting Ryan to marry Be,¡± Mrs. Rose said, her eyes gleaming with determination.


    ¡°Mum, isn¡¯t that too fast? Ryan hasn¡¯t made a decision yet. Shouldn¡¯t we let him decide?¡± Ivy suggested.


    ¡°No, dear. We¡¯ll decide for Ryan. He¡¯s too confused to make the right choice. Be needs to move into his house. I¡¯ll go shopping for my grandchildter.¡±


    ¡°Mum, isn¡¯t it too soon to shop? We don¡¯t even know the baby¡¯s gender yet,¡± Ivy pointed out


    .¡±It doesn¡¯t matter. I¡¯ll buy for both genders, just in case they¡¯re twins,¡± Mrs. Rose giggled.


    Ivy shook her head, smiling. ¡°You¡¯re something else, Mom. I have an appointment at 4 PM, so I can¡¯t go shopping with you.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose pouted. ¡°I thought you¡¯de with me.¡±


    ¡°No way, Mum. I have things to do. Bye,¡± Ivy said, kissing her mother¡¯s cheek before leaving


    . Mrs. Rose picked up her phone and called Iris for the first time. ¡°Hello, meet me at home now,¡± she said before hanging up.


    *******************************


    . Iris woke up again, remembering where she was and what the nurse had told her. Pregnant. How could she be pregnant with Ryan¡¯s child when he was expecting a baby with Be? Mrs. Rose had just told her to stay away from Ryan.


    Her life seemed to get moreplicated every day. She decided to keep the pregnancy a secret. Telling Ryan would only make things worse. He would think she was desperate. No, she would deal with this on her own.


    The nurse came in to check on her. ¡°Do you feel any pain?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m okay,¡± Iris replied, her mind elsewhere.¡±You can leave soon,¡± the nurse said.¡±Who brought me here?¡± Iris asked.


    ¡°A young man. He paid your bills and left,¡± the nurse replied. Iris nodded and left the hospital, ignoring the nurse¡¯s advice to rest more. She walked down the street, tears blurring her vision.


    She was carrying a child for someone who didn¡¯t care about her. How would she navigate this mess? She decided to end her marriage with Ryan and get paid off so she could leave with her mother and unborn child.


    But the thought of raising their child alone was unbearable. She loved Ryan, despite everything.


    As she walked, she felt someone trailing her. Each time she looked back, no one was there. It must be her imagination, she thought.


    She needed to clear her head. She spotted a bar with a club ahead and decided to go in.


    She sat among the crowd, a waitress approaching her. ¡°What would you like to drink?¡±


    ¡°Your strongest drink. I want to be knocked out,¡± Iris replied, her voice heavy with despair.


    The waitress hesitated, seeing the dried tear marks on Iris¡¯s face. ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Just bring the bottle,¡± Iris snapped.


    The waitress returned with a bottle and ced it on the table. Iris began drowning her sorrows in the alcohol.


    A man at the other end of the bar had been watching her for a while. He noticed her ordering another drink and decided to intervene.


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t give her another bottle,¡± he said to the waitress, who nodded in agreement, giving Iris a pitying look before she walked away.


    ¡°Do you want to kill yourself? Why are you drinking so much?¡± the man asked his tone a mix of concern and frustration.


    He finally joined her at the table.¡±You, what are you doing here?¡± Iris slurred, looking up at the stranger.

 Chapter 53

    The man smiled, his blue eyes twinkling. ¡°I¡¯m the one who brought you to the hospital. You seemed like you needed help.


    ¡°Iris blinked, trying to focus with her bleary eyes ¡°Why did you help me?¡±


    ¡°Because you looked like you needed it. I¡¯m Jason, by the way,¡± he said, extending his hand.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    ¡°Iris,¡± she mumbled, shaking his hand weakly.


    ¡°Do you want to talk about it?¡± Jason asked, his tone gentle.


    Iris sighed. ¡°My life is a mess. I¡¯m pregnant, and the father doesn¡¯t care about me. He¡¯s having a baby with another woman.¡±Jason¡¯s eyes softened with empathy.


    ¡°You¡­ what are you doing here? You almost killed me earlier today, and now you¡¯re here to finish the job?¡± she bbed, her words slurred.


    ¡°Did anyone send you to kill me? I know they all want me dead. I want myself dead too, so I understand,¡± she chuckled bitterly.


    ¡°Stop saying rubbish, Iris,¡± he replied sternly.


    ¡°So you know my name. Wow, they must have given you a lot of information about me,¡± Iris said,ughing dramatically.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough for tonight. Let¡¯s get you home,¡± he said firmly.


    ¡°But the fun just started. The party just begun. I want to stay,¡± she protested weakly.


    He didn¡¯t respond as he grabbed her arm and lifted her onto his shoulder. He reached into his pocket, pulled out some money, and ced it on her table before carrying her out of the bar. As they walked, Iris continued to mumble incoherently.


    ¡°Ryan¡­ why don¡¯t you love me? I¡¯m pregnant with your child¡­ Be is nothing¡­ They all hate me¡­ I¡¯m so alone¡­¡± she muttered.


    He opened his car and ced her gently in the backseat before getting into the driver¡¯s seat and driving off. He took her to a nearby hotel, carrying her to his room. Once inside, heid her on the bed. She continued to mumble nonsensical words, her eyes half-closed.


    ¡°How do I tell the world I¡¯m pregnant for a man who doesn¡¯t care about me or love me? Our marriage is a contract¡­ so do I expect him to love me? Of course not,¡± she said,ughing again.


    The man looked at her with a mix of curiosity and something darker. He sat on the couch, watching her, his thoughts interrupted by his phone ringing.


    ¡°Hello,¡± he said, listening to the person on the other end. ¡°Understood,¡± he said, ending the call.


    He dropped his phone, climbed onto the bed, and undressed Iris, whoy there helplessly. She kept mumbling, unaware of what was happening. The man smirked as he had his way with her.


    The next morning, Iris woke up with a pounding headache. Her eyes flickered open to an unfamiliar room. She sat up, looking around. This was not her house, her mother¡¯s house, or even the hospital.


    Panic set in as she realized she was stark naked under the duvet.


    ¡°Oh my God,¡± she muttered in shock. She pulled off the bedsheets and tried to get out of bed, but her legs were weak, and she sat back down. She felt sore in her lower body and knew someone had taken advantage of her.


    She tried to piece together the events of the previous night. She remembered almost getting hit by a car, fainting,nding in the hospital, and being discharged with the news of her pregnancy. She also remembered going to the bar and drinking heavily. Thest clear memory she had was of the man who had taken her to the hospital sitting down with her at the bar.


    She wasn¡¯t sure if it was the same man who had brought her to the hotel, but everything was still blurry, making her head ache more. She picked up her phone to check the time and saw dozens of missed calls.


    Thirty missed calls from Ryan. Twenty-five missed calls from Skr. Fifteen missed calls from an unknown number.


    Panic surged through her as she quickly got up and dragged herself to the bathroom. She showered and put on her clothes, then left the hotel immediately. She stopped by a store to buy some hangover pills before heading to the hospital.


    As she walked to the hospital, her mind raced. How was she going to face Ryan? What would she tell him? She was pregnant, and he had no idea. She felt a wave of nausea, not from the hangover but from the overwhelming situation she found herself in.


    *********************************


    Ryan rushed out of the hospital after receiving an urgent call from his mother.


    He knew Iris wasn¡¯t happy about it; he saw it in her eyes. As he drove straight to the office, he kept trying to call Iris, but she didn¡¯t pick up.


    Immersed in paperwork, he lost track of time, and it was alreadyte when he decided to head home, nning to see his mother the next day.


    The next morning, Ryan woke up, freshened up, and checked his phone. Still no call or message from Iris.


    Worry gnawed at him, but he decided to visit his mother first. On his way to her house, he continued trying to reach Iris.


    Upon arriving at his mother¡¯s house, he found Mrs. Rose looking sophisticated as ever, but not worried or sad as he had expected. He greeted her with a mix of relief and concern.


    ¡°Hi Mom, you sounded urgent.¡±


    ¡°Yes, son, it is urgent. Are you aware Be is pregnant with your child?¡± she asked, her voice sharp.


    Ryan sighed, running his hands through his thick ck hair. ¡°Yes, Mom, I know she¡¯s pregnant, but it was a mistake. I didn¡¯t n for this to happen. I have a wife, and I don¡¯t want toplicate things with Be¡¯s pregnancy.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s face hardened. ¡°What you just said is nonsense. You didn¡¯t think aboutplications before you got Be pregnant? You didn¡¯t remember you had a wife then? Your father warned you about this lifestyle, but you never listened. What do you n to do now?¡±


    ¡°Mum, I can¡¯t marry Be,¡± Ryan said firmly.¡±And why not? You got her pregnant, you must take responsibility. You¡¯re marrying her, and that¡¯s final. You know who her parents are. I¡¯m sure you don¡¯t want them to know about this mess,¡± Mrs. Rose said sternly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take responsibility for the child, but I can¡¯t marry Be. She forced herself on me. I didn¡¯t want this,¡± Ryan replied, his voice strained.¡±You have no option. Either you marry her and let Iris go, or you face me,¡± Mrs. Rose dered.¡±But, Mom¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t ¡®but Mom¡¯ me, Ryan. This is final. I¡¯m off to do some shopping for my grandchild. Join me if you¡¯re interested,¡± she said, leaving him standing there, confused and frustrated.


    Ryan¡¯s phone rang, snapping him back to reality. It was an unknown number. He picked up, hoping it was Iris, only to hear a panicking voice.


    ¡°Hello, can you calm down? What did you say?¡± he asked urgently. The person on the other end mumbled some words.¡±What? Hold on, I¡¯m on my way right now,¡± Ryan eximed, rushing out.


    ************************************


    Meanwhile, Be was lounging in her sitting room, dressed in a transparent dress, sipping wine with a broad smile on her face.


    She had just received exciting news over a call. Downing her wine, she got up and called the guards to take her luggage to the car.


    Her driver drove her to Ryan¡¯s house.


    Sarah, with a natural face, opened the door as the guards carried Be¡¯s luggage inside Ryan¡¯s room.


    Be settled in, feeling triumphant.


    In the kitchen, Sarah was on the phone. Be, feeling thirsty, called out to Sarah for water, but there was no response.


    Irritated, Be decided to check downstairs and found Sarah engrossed in her call.


    ¡°And who are you talking about?¡± Be demanded, her voice dripping with disdain.


    Sarah, startled, quickly ended her call. ¡°Sorry, Miss Be. I was just¡­ talking to a friend.¡±Be red at her.


    ¡°Well, you work for me now. Next time, you better be avable when I call. Now, get me some water.¡±Sarah nodded, rushing to get the water.


    Be¡¯s eyes narrowed as she watched her. Something about Sarah¡¯s behavior seemed off, but she brushed it aside, focusing on her ns.

 Chapter 54

    As he drove to the hospital, he called Iris again, but still no answer. Frustration and worry gnawed at him.


    Back at Ryan¡¯s house, Be made herselffortable in his room, pleased with how things were unfolding. She had always known she would win in the end.


    Ryan had no choice but to marry her now.


    Downstairs, Sarah was still shaken from Be¡¯s outburst. She had been on the phone with someone important, and Be¡¯s interruption had unnerved her.


    She couldn¡¯t afford to slip up now; too much was at stake.


    *************************


    Back at the mansion, Mrs. Rose was in her room, deep in thought. She knew Ryan was angry, but she was determined to see her n through.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    She called Be to check on her.¡±Be, how are things going?¡± she asked


    .¡±Everything¡¯s fine, Rose. I¡¯m settling in nicely,¡± Be replied with a smug smile.¡±Good. Keep it up. We can¡¯t afford any mistakes,¡± Mrs. Rose said, ending the call.


    As she put down the phone, Mrs. Rose¡¯s mind shifted to Jessica. She couldn¡¯t let her interfere with her ns. She made a call to an old contact, a man who owed her a favor.


    ¡°I need you to find someone for me. Jessica, and I need to know where she is,¡± Mrs. Rose instructed.


    ¡°Consider it done,¡± the man replied.


    Mrs. Rose ended the call, feeling a sense of control. She wouldn¡¯t let anything ruin her ns for Ryan and Be.


    After Iris left the hospital, Skr stayed behind to look after Mrs. Jessica.


    Hours passed, and there was still no sign of Iris. Skr tried calling her several times, but her calls went unanswered.


    Growing worried, she decided to grab something to eat at the cafeteria. When she returned, Iris was still nowhere to be found, and her phone calls continued to go unanswered.


    Feeling uneasy, Skr tried calling Ryan, but he didn¡¯t pick up either. Frustration mounting, she eventually fell asleep next to Mrs. Jessica¡¯s bed.


    Around 4 AM, a sudden ckout plunged the hospital into darkness, followed by the ring of the fire rm.


    Skr woke up in a panic. She stepped out into the chaotic hallway, pulling out her phone to use as a shlight, only to find it had a t battery. ¡°Shit,¡± she muttered.


    She moved through the darkened corridors, trying to avoid the rush of people. Someone bumped into her, causing her phone to slip from her hand.¡±Hey, watch it!¡± she yelled.


    ¡°Well, get out of the way,¡± a voice retorted.


    Skr groped around for her phone, following the screams and the faint light from the emergency exits. After about 30 minutes, the power was restored, and everyone began to return to their rooms.


    The security team and police were alerted. Skr rushed back to Mrs. Jessica¡¯s room, only to find it empty. ¡°Mrs. Jess?¡± she called, looking around. She checked the bathroom, but it was empty. Panic set in. ¡°Mrs. Jessica? Doctor! Doctor!¡± She ran out to find help. A doctor hurried over.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Jessica is missing. She¡¯s not in her room,¡± Skr said, her voice shaking.¡±What do you mean? She has to be there,¡± the doctor insisted.¡±She¡¯s not. Please,e see for yourself.¡±


    The doctor followed Skr back to the room and confirmed that Mrs. Jessica was indeed gone. The rm was raised again, and security personnel began a thorough search of the hospital.


    Mrs. Jessica was nowhere to be found. Skr was terrified and continued to call Iris, but her phone was still unreachable.


    She finally managed to get through to Ryan.¡±Hello, Ryan. It¡¯s me, Skr. I¡¯ve been trying to reach Iris sincest night. Mrs. Jessica is missing. There was a ckout at the hospital, and when the lights came back on, she was gone.


    I¡¯ll be there soon.¡±He drove back to the hospital, his thoughts now focused on Iris and Mrs. Jessica


    ¡°Ryan sped to the hospital, finding police and security personnel swarming the ce.


    He spotted Skr and hurried over.¡±Skr, what¡¯s happening? Where¡¯s Mrs. Jessica?¡± he demanded.¡±I don¡¯t know. They¡¯re looking for her.


    The CCTV cameras went off just before the ckout and came back on when the lights were restored. It¡¯s very unusual,¡± Skr exined, her voice filled with anxiety.¡±Where¡¯s Iris?¡± Ryan asked urgently.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t seen her since she left the hospital. She said your mother called to see her,¡± Skr replied.


    ¡°My mother?¡± Ryan echoed, dialing his mother¡¯s number. Mrs. Rose answered on the second ring.


    ¡°Mum, where¡¯s Iris? You asked her toe see you, and now she¡¯s nowhere to be found.¡±


    ¡°What sort of question is that? Am I married to Iris? Yes, I called her, but she was long gone. Don¡¯t call and ask me rubbish again.¡± Mrs. Rose hung up before Ryan could say anything else.


    Ryan was about to redial when he heard Skr calling Iris¡¯s name. He looked up and saw Iris approaching, looking disheveled and confused.


    ¡°Sky, what¡¯s going on? Why are the police everywhere? Why do you look like this?¡± Iris asked, her voice trembling.¡±You left Mum alone in her ward. Why?¡±


    Skr¡¯s voice cracked with emotion.¡±Iris, Mum is gone,¡± Skr said, tears streaming down her face.¡±What do you mean? Sky, talk to me! What are you saying? Gone where?¡± Iris¡¯s voice rose in panic.


    ¡°Iris, calm down. There was a ckoutst night. After 30 minutes, the lights came back on, but Mrs. Jessica was gone. I called you several times, but you didn¡¯t pick up. They¡¯re still searching for her,¡± Skr exined, her wordsing out in a rush.


    ¡°Iris, where have you been?¡± Ryan asked as he approached them.¡±Ryan¡­ Ry¡­ an, I¡­¡± Iris began to respond but then copsed. Ryan caught her just in time, and she was quickly rushed into the hospital.


    As Iris was being attended to by the doctors, Ryan and Skr were left in the hallway, trying to piece together what had happened.


    ¡°Skr, did Iris say anything about where she was going?¡± Ryan asked, pacing back and forth.¡±She only mentioned that your mother called to see her. That¡¯s all I know,¡± Skr replied, her voice filled with worry.


    ¡°Something doesn¡¯t add up. My mother said she saw Iris, but Iris left long ago. And now Jessica is missing too,¡± Ryan said, frustration evident in his tone.


    Just then, a police officer approached them. ¡°Mr. Kendrick, we need to ask you a few questions about Mrs. Jessica¡¯s disappearance.¡±


    ¡°Of course, Officer. What do you need to know?¡± Ryan said, trying to remain calm.¡± Can you tell us about Mrs. Jessica¡¯s state of mind recently? Was she under any stress or threat?¡± the officer asked.


    Ryan exchanged a look with Skr. ¡°She was worried about some family issues, but nothing that would make her disappear like this,¡± he replied.¡±And what about you, Miss?¡± the officer turned to Skr. ¡°Did you notice anything unusual?¡±Skr shook her head. ¡°No, she seemed fine. Just worried about her daughter.¡±The officer nodded, jotting down notes.


    ¡°We¡¯re going to review the security footage again and see if we missed anything. We¡¯ll keep you updated.¡±As the officer walked away, Ryan turned to Skr. ¡°We need to find out what happened. Something isn¡¯t right here.¡±Hourster, Iris woke up in a hospital bed, feeling disoriented. Ryan was by her side, holding her hand.


    ¡°Ryan? What happened?¡± she asked weakly.¡±You copsed, Iris. Do you remember anything?¡± Ryan asked gently.¡±I¡­ I remember leaving the hospital. I went to see your mother. She was acting strange, but I didn¡¯t think much of it. Then I went to clear my head. I couldn¡¯t faceing back here yet,¡± Iris exined, tears welling up in her eyes.


    Ryan squeezed her hand. ¡°It¡¯s okay. We¡¯ll figure this out. But we need to find your mum. She¡¯s missing.¡±Iris¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Missing? How?¡±


    ¡°There was a ckout at the hospital. When the lights came back on, she was gone,¡± Ryan exined.


    Iris sat up, panic setting in. ¡°We have to find her, Ryan. She¡¯s in danger. I know it.¡±


    ¡°We will. The police are on it, and I¡¯ve got a private investigator looking into it too,¡± Ryan assured her.


    Meanwhile, in a dark, abandoned warehouse, Mrs. Jessica was tied to a chair, struggling against her bonds. A shadowy figure stepped out of the darkness, a menacing smile on its face.¡±Comfortable, Mrs. Jessica?¡± the figure taunted.¡±Who are you? What do you want?¡± Jessica demanded, her voice shaking.

 Chapter 55

    All in good time. For now, just enjoy your stay,¡± the figure replied before disappearing into the shadows.


    Ryan called his private investigator, detailing the situation and asking for immediate help.


    ¡°Find her, and find out what happened,¡± Ryan ordered, his voice tight with tension.¡±Understood, Mr. Kendrick.


    We¡¯ll get right on it,¡± the investigator replied.


    Hours passed, and there was still no word from Iris or any leads on Jessica. Ryan¡¯s frustration grew.


    ¡°Back at the hospital, Ryan¡¯s phone rang. It was the private investigator.


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick, I¡¯ve found a lead. Jessica was seen being taken from the hospital by a man dressed as a doctor. We¡¯re tracking him now.¡±Ryan¡¯s heart pounded. ¡°Keep me updated. We need to find her fast.¡±


    As he hung up, he turned to Iris and Skr. ¡°We have a lead. Jessica was taken by someone disguised as a doctor. They¡¯re tracking him now.¡±Iris nodded determination in her eyes. ¡°We¡¯ll find her, Ryan. We have to.¡±


    Hours turned into a tense waiting game. The hospital was abuzz with activity as the police continued their investigation.


    Ryan, Iris, and Skr stayed close, waiting for any news.


    Finally, the investigator called again.


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick, we¡¯ve located the warehouse where they took Jessica. We¡¯re moving in now.


    ¡°Ryan stood up, his heart racing. ¡°I¡¯ming with you.¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s too dangerous. Let us handle this,¡± the investigator insisted.¡±That¡¯s my family. I¡¯m not staying behind,¡± Ryan said firmly.


    Iris stood up beside him. ¡°I¡¯ming too. We¡¯re in this together.¡±The investigator sighed. ¡°Alright, but stay back and let us do our job.¡±


    Ryan and Iris followed the investigator¡¯s directions, arriving at the warehouse just as the police were setting up a perimeter. The area was swarming with officers, and the tension was palpable.¡±Stay here,¡± Ryan told Iris, but she shook her head.¡±No, I¡¯ming with you,¡± she insisted.


    They approached the lead officer, who briefed them on the situation. ¡°We¡¯re about to move in. Stay behind us and don¡¯t do anything rash.¡±Ryan nodded, his jaw set in determination.


    As the police moved in, he and Iris followed closely, their hearts pounding. The police stormed the warehouse, shoutingmands. Ryan and Iris stayed close, watching as they searched the area.


    The boys were smoking and chit-chatting, but they didn¡¯t find Mrs Jessica; the boys were all arrested and taken to the police station.


    After the unfruitful search, Iris heard one of the boys say Mrs Jessica would have been dead by now.


    The police officers questioned them, and they denied being an aplice to the kidnap, but their boss had something to do with it, but they refused to call out the name of their boss, iming they didn¡¯t know him directly.


    They were mere errand boys; Iris copsed after hearing that and was rushed into the hospital; sheter regained consciousness. As her eyes fluttered open, she immediately asked about her mother.


    Skr, who sat close to her, worry etched on her face, gently took Iris¡¯s hand.¡±They¡¯re still searching for her,¡± Skr said softly. ¡°Ryan is out with the police too.¡±


    Tears streamed down Iris¡¯s cheeks. ¡°I don¡¯t want anything to happen to Mum. We¡¯ve been through so much together. She needs to recover, she¡¯s not very strong¡­ Why is all this happening?¡±


    ¡°Calm down, Iris. We will go through this together. They will find her soon, I¡¯m sure of it,¡± Skr tried to reassure her.


    Iris sniffled, wiping her eyes. ¡°Sky, I need to tell you something.¡±


    Skr leaned in, curious. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m pregnant with Ryan¡¯s child,¡± Iris whispered, her voice breaking. Skr gasped, her hands flying to her mouth to stifle a shout.


    ¡°Are you sure? When did you find out?¡±


    ¡°Yesterday. I was knocked over by a car and rushed to the hospital. That¡¯s when I was told,¡± Iris exined, still crying.


    ¡°Oh, Iris,¡± Skr said, her voice filled with mixed emotions. ¡°This news should be joyful, but with everything going on, I don¡¯t know how to feel.¡±Irisid back on the bed, tears still streaming down her face.


    ¡°But there¡¯s more. I¡­ I was at a barst night, and I think someone took advantage of me.¡± her eyes filled with tears.


    What? Who? Do you know who it was?¡± Skr asked


    Iris shook her head, tears streaming down her face. ¡°I don¡¯t remember.


    Everything¡¯s so blurry. I just know that I woke up in a hotel room this morning, and¡­ and I was naked.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God, I¡¯m so sorry, Iris.¡± Skr said as she hugged Iris.


    Meanwhile, the man from the bar, Jason, watched from the shadows, a sinister smile on his face. He had overheard everything and knew he had the upper hand.


    He had taken advantage of Iris, and now he had a n to use that information to his advantage. Little did Iris and Ryan know, their troubles were far from over.


    Back at the mansion, Mrs. Rose sat in the parlor, her mind racing. She couldn¡¯t let Iris¡¯s pregnancy derail her ns for Ryan and Be. She picked up her phone and dialed a number.


    ¡°Be, it¡¯s Rose. We need to elerate our n. I don¡¯t care what it takes, but Ryan must marry you, and soon,¡± she said, her voice cold and calcting.


    Be¡¯s voice came through the line, filled with confidence. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Rose. I¡¯ll handle it. Ryan will be mine, and we¡¯ll make sure Iris is out of the picture.¡±


    Mrs. Rose smiled. ¡°Good. Make sure it happens. We can¡¯t afford any more surprises.¡±


    As she ended the call, Mrs. Rose¡¯s mind shifted to Ivy. She needed her daughter to stay focused and not get caught up in the drama unfolding. She dialed Ivy¡¯s number next.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°Ivy, darling, how¡¯s your day going?¡± she asked, her tone sweet but with an underlying edge.


    ¡°Hi, Mom. Just busy with appointments. Why?¡± Ivy replied.


    ¡°I need you to stay focused, dear. Things are about to get moreplicated, and I need you to be ready. We¡¯re counting on you to help keep everything on track,¡± Mrs. Rose said.


    Ivy sighed. ¡°I know, Mom. I¡¯ll do my best.¡±


    ¡°Good. Remember, we¡¯re doing this for the family,¡± Mrs. Rose said, ending the call.


    Elsewhere, in a dimly lit room, an unfamiliar voice spoke into a phone.


    ¡°Did you know she was pregnant?¡±


    ¡°Yes, she¡¯s pregnant by her contract husband. It wasn¡¯t a real marriage; it was all a contract,¡± a man replied, his tone casual.


    After listening to the person on the other end, he ended the call and sat back, a contemtive look on his face.


    Dr. Parker was in his office when the door opened, revealing a tall, hourss-figured woman with brown hair.


    Immediately, he rose to greet her.¡±Oh, honey, why didn¡¯t you tell me you wereing?¡± he asked warmly.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to bother you, and it was urgent. I needed toe and tell you something,¡± she replied, her voice soft yet firm.


    ¡°Please, take a seat. What can I get you?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Water would be fine, dear,¡± she replied.


    Dr. Parker went to the small fridge in his office, retrieving a bottle of water and a ss. He poured the water and handed it to her.


    ¡°How is he doing?¡± Dr. Parker asked.¡±He is fine, but I didn¡¯te here for him.


    It¡¯s almost time for us to put some people in ce. A lot is going on, and it¡¯s fishy, although I¡¯m still trying to figure out what exactly is happening.


    Ryan didn¡¯t have an actual wedding; it was all a contract marriage. And now Be is pregnant with his child,¡± she exined.¡±


    This isplicated. How sure are you about Be?¡± Dr. Parker asked, his brow furrowing.¡±Very sure. She¡¯s our best bait and option,¡± the woman replied confidently.


    A knock on the door interrupted their conversation. A nurse entered to inform Dr. Parker that he had some patients to check on in the emergency room.¡±I¡¯ll be there shortly,¡± he replied.


    The nurse nodded and left, closing the door behind her.¡±I¡¯lle see you after work so we can discuss this better. We need to n and act fast,¡± Dr. Parker said, seeing her off.


    As she left, Dr. Parker¡¯s mind raced with thoughts. ¡°I have to get my family back,¡± he murmured to himself.

 Chapter 56

    Meanwhile, Ryan was talking to the police, trying to get updates on their search efforts.


    ¡°We¡¯re doing our best, Mr. Kendrick. The kidnappers didn¡¯t leave any traces, which makes it difficult, but we assure you we will find her soon,¡± a police officer exined.


    As Ryan was talking, his phone beeped with a notification. It was from Be. She had sent him a picture of herself in red lingerie, with the caption, ¡°Come home to Mama. I can¡¯t wait to devour you


    .¡± Ryan hissed in disgust, quickly texting back, ¡°I don¡¯t want to see you in my house when I return.¡± He shoved his phone back into his pocket, only for it to beep again.


    Expecting another message from Be, he reluctantly checked it. This time, it was from an unknown number: ¡°I know where she was taken and who took her.¡±Ryan¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    He immediately dialed the number, his hands trembling as the phone started to ring


    .¡±Hello?¡± a gruff voice answered.¡±Who is this? What do you know about Mrs. Jessica¡¯s disappearance?¡± Ryan demanded.¡±Calm down, Kendrick.


    I have information, but ites at a price,¡± the voice replied coolly.


    ¡°Name your price,¡± Ryan said, desperation evident in his tone.¡±We¡¯ll discuss the terms in person. Meet me at the old warehouse on 5th and Main in one hour. Come alone, and don¡¯t involve the police, or you¡¯ll never see her again,¡± the voice warned before hanging up.


    Ryan clenched his fist, trying to control his rage. He turned to the police officer. ¡°I need to go. I just got a lead. I¡¯ll keep you updated,¡± he said, not revealing the details.


    As Ryan left the hospital, he called Skr. ¡°Sky, I need to follow a lead. Stay with Iris and keep me updated if anything changes.¡±


    ¡°Be careful, Ryan,¡± Skr said, worry evident in her voice. An hourter, Ryan arrived at the old warehouse. The ce was deserted and eerie, with broken windows and graffiti covering the walls. He stepped inside cautiously, his eyes scanning the dimly lit space.


    ¡°Over here,¡± the gruff voice called from the shadows. Ryan approached, his heart pounding. ¡°What do you know about Mrs. Jessica?¡±A man stepped out of the shadows, his face partially obscured by a hood. ¡°I know where she is and who took her. But first, my payment.¡±Ryan pulled out an envelope filled with cash.


    ¡°Here. Now tell me where she is.¡±The man took the envelope, quickly counting the money. ¡°She¡¯s being held in a remote cabin in the woods, about an hour¡¯s drive from here. The person who took her is someone close to you.¡±


    ¡°Who?¡± Ryan demanded, his patience wearing thin. The man looked up, his eyes cold. ¡°Dr. Parker.¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°Dr. Parker? Why would he do this?¡±The man shrugged. ¡°That¡¯s for you to find out. I¡¯ve given you the location.


    Now go before it¡¯s toote.¡±Ryan didn¡¯t waste any time. He rushed back to his car, his mind racing with questions. As he drove towards the cabin, he tried to piece everything together. Why would Dr. Parker kidnap Mrs. Jessica? What was his motive?


    Back at the hospital, Skr was pacing nervously. Iris had fallen asleep again, exhausted from the emotional turmoil. Skr¡¯s phone buzzed, and she quickly answered, hoping it was Ryan.


    ¡°Skr, it¡¯s me,¡± Ryan¡¯s voice came through the line.¡±Ryan, did you find anything?¡± Skr asked anxiously.¡±Yes, I have a lead. I¡¯m heading to a remote cabin in the woods. Dr. Parker is behind this,¡± Ryan said, his voice tense.¡±Dr. Parker? Why?¡± Skr asked, bewildered.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know yet, but I¡¯ll find out. Stay with Iris and keep her safe. I¡¯ll call you as soon as I have more information,¡± Ryan replied before hanging up.


    Skr stared at her phone, her mind reeling. What could Dr. Parker possibly have to gain from this? Ryan arrived at the cabin just as the sun began to set, casting an ominous glow over the woods.


    He parked his car a short distance away and approached the cabin on foot, careful to stay hidden. As he got closer, he could hear muffled voicesing from inside. Peeking through a window, he saw ady tied to a chair, looking scared but unharmed, he knew then he had been misled.


    A man was pacing the room, talking to someone on the phone.¡±We need to move her soon. It¡¯s only a matter of time before they find us,¡± The man said, his voice urgent.


    Ryan¡¯s blood boiled with anger. He texted the address to the police before he carefully moved to the front door, taking a deep breath before kicking it open.


    ¡°Hey Ryan shouted, storming into the cabin.


    The man turned, a look of shock and anger on his face. ¡°Who are you, what are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°I could ask you the same thing. Why are you holding that woman hostage?¡± Ryan demanded, his fists clenched.


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business man, leave here now Mr.  ,¡± The man  said, trying to stay calm.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Mrs Jessica? Ryan asked Before the man could answer, the sound of approaching sirens filled the air. Ryan turned to see police cars pulling up outside the cabin.


    ¡°You led them here?¡± The man said, panic in his eyes. Ryan stepped aside as the police stormed the cabin, quickly taking the man into custody. The woman was untied and rushed to safety, her eyes filled with relief.¡±Thank you, she whispered to Ryan.


    Iris sat up in bed, her eyes red from crying. Skr held her hand, trying to offer somefort.


    ¡°Iris, we need to stay strong. Ryan is out there doing everything he can to find your mom,¡± Skr said softly.¡±I know, Sky. I just can¡¯t shake this feeling that something terrible is going to happen,¡± Iris replied, her voice trembling.


    At that moment, Ryan walked into the room, looking haggard but determined. Skr stood up quickly.¡±Ryan, did you find anything?¡± Skr asked urgently.


    Ryan nodded. ¡°No it was a wrong led.


    There are more attacks being nned.¡±


    ¡°Attacks? On who?¡± Skr asked, her eyes wide with fear.¡±On all of us,¡± Ryan said. ¡°We need to be on high alert. I don¡¯t know who else is involved, but we can¡¯t trust anyone right now.


    The door to Dr. Parker¡¯s office creaked open, revealing Be. She walked in confidently, her eyes scanning the room until she found what she was looking for a filebeled ¡°Kendrick.¡±


    ¡°Dr. Parker thought he could outsmart us,¡± she muttered, grabbing the file and slipping it into her bag.


    Just as she was about to leave, a voice behind her made her freeze.¡±nning something, Be?¡±She turned around to see a tall, imposing figure standing in the doorway.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Be demanded.¡±Let¡¯s just say I¡¯m someone who¡¯s very interested in what you just took,¡± the man replied, stepping closer. Be¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°And why should I tell you anything?¡±The man smiled coldly.


    ¡°Because if you don¡¯t, I¡¯ll make sure you regret it.¡±


    Ryan, Iris, and Skr gathered in the living room of Ryan¡¯s mansion, tension hanging thick in the air.¡±We need to figure out who else might be involved,¡± Ryan said.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    ¡°We can¡¯t take any chances.¡±


    ¡°What about your mother?¡± Skr asked. ¡°She was acting strange before all this happened.¡±Ryan sighed. ¡°I don¡¯t know. She denies any involvement, but I don¡¯t trust her.


    ¡°Iris looked up, determination in her eyes. ¡°We need to confront her. If she¡¯s hiding something, we need to know.¡±Ryan nodded. ¡°You¡¯re right. Let¡¯s go


    Mrs. Rose Kendrick was sitting at her vanity, brushing her hair, when the door burst open. Ryan, Iris, and Skr walked in, their faces set with purpose.


    ¡°Ryan, what is this?¡± Mrs. Kendrick asked, her voice icy.¡±We need answers, Mother,¡± Ryan said, his tone equally cold.


    ¡°What do you know about Dr. Parker and these nned attacks?¡±Mrs. Kendrick¡¯s eyes shed with anger. ¡°How dare you use me of being involved in this?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t y games with us,¡± Iris said, stepping forward. ¡°People¡¯s lives are at stake. If you know something, you need to tell us.¡±Mrs. Kendrick stood up, her expression hard. ¡°I don¡¯t know anything about any attacks.


    And if you think you can intimidate me, you¡¯re sorely mistaken.


    In a dimly lit safe house, Ivan sat at a table, a map spread out before him. He traced a line with his finger, a sinister smile on his lips.


    ¡°It¡¯s almost time,¡± he said to the person sitting across from him. The other person, hidden in the shadows, nodded.


    ¡°Everything is in ce. The Kendricks won¡¯t know what hit them.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Ivan replied. ¡°Make sure our men are ready. We attack at dawn.¡±


    Ryan, Iris, and Skr returned to the living room, their minds racing with the new information.¡±We need to find this Ivan,¡± Ryan said. ¡°If he¡¯s nning an attack, we have to stop him.¡±

 Chapter 57

    ¡°How are we going to find him?¡± Iris asked.


    Ryan, Iris, Skr, and a team of police officers arrived at the address from the file.


    The ce was heavily guarded, but they managed to slip past the guards and into the building.


    Inside, they found Ivan and his aplice, deep in discussion.¡±It¡¯s over, Ivan,¡± Ryan said, stepping into the room. ¡°We know everything.¡±Ivan looked up, a smug smile on his face. ¡°Do you? I think you¡¯re toote, Kendrick.¡±


    At that moment, a loud explosion rocked the building, and chaos erupted.


    Ryan, Iris, and Skr were thrown to the ground by the force of the st. As they struggled to get up, they saw Ivan slipping out a back door.¡±Go after him!¡± Ryan shouted to the police officers.


    Iris grabbed Ryan¡¯s arm, her eyes wide with fear. ¡°Ryan, what if there are more bombs?¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t let him get away,¡± Ryan said, determination in his voice. They ran after Ivan, the sound of sirens and shouts filling the air. As they turned a corner, they saw Ivan getting into a ck SUV.¡±Stop him!¡± Ryan yelled.


    Just as the SUV sped away, a second explosion went off, blocking their path. Ryan and Iris were thrown back, and everything went dark.


    Ryan stormed into the house, with Iris trailing behind him, both looking exhausted and distressed.


    They were greeted by Be, who was lounging on the couch, her belongings scattered around the room.


    ¡°And what is the meaning of this, Be?¡± Ryan barked, ring at her. ¡°What are you doing in my house with your luggage?¡±


    Be smiled lightly, casting a hard stare at Iris. ¡°Wee home, honey,¡± she said sweetly.


    ¡°What is she doing here?¡± Be asked, her smirk widening as she looked at Iris.¡±You still haven¡¯t answered my question, Be. What are you doing here? In my house? Dressed like that?¡± Ryan demanded, his voice rising.


    ¡°I know you¡¯ve been stressed, honey,¡± Be cooed, walking toward him and attempting to take off his suit jacket. ¡°Your mum asked me to move in so you can take care of me and our unborn child.¡±Those words pierced Iris¡¯s heart. She stood there, frozen, tears welling up in her eyes.


    ¡°Be, take your hands off me,¡± Ryan snapped, pushing her away. ¡°I asked you a question.¡±


    ¡°Ryan, stop yelling at me because of her,¡± Be shot back, her voice filled with venom. ¡°We need you, Ryan. Can¡¯t you see?¡± She made a sad face, cing her hand on his chest.


    Iris couldn¡¯t hold back her tears any longer. They fell freely as she turned and ran out of the house.


    Ryan started to go after her, but Be grabbed his arm, stopping him. ¡°Ryan, let her go. We need you more. We are now your family,¡± she said, her voice pleading.


    Iris ran as fast as she could, her vision blurred by tears. As she grew tired, her pace slowed, and her legs felt weak. She noticed a car trailing behind her and stopped to see if they were following her.


    The car also stopped. Growing more frightened, she started walking again, the car continuing to follow her.


    She quickly pulled out her phone and texted Ryan, ¡°There¡¯s a car following me, please help me.¡±Immediately, she felt strong hands wrap around her, and a small towel covered her mouth and nose.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Her phone fell from her hands as she was carried into the car, which sped off.


    Ryan received the text and his eyes widened in shock. ¡°Fuck,¡± he muttered, running out of the house, ignoring Be¡¯s calls. He got into his car and sped off, searching for Iris.


    Driving through the streets, he saw a small crowd gathered on the sidewalk. He pulled over, rushed out of his car, and pushed his way through the crowd. There, on the ground, was Iris¡¯s bag and phone. He grabbed them, his heart sinking.¡±Who saw the owner of these?¡± he demanded, but no one had any answers


    Back in his car, Ryan saw the text Iris had sent him and the cracked screen of her phone.


    Frustration and pain overwhelmed him, and he hit the steering wheel hard, screaming in anguish. Tears streamed down his face. He called his investigators, yelling at them for their sluggishness.


    ¡°Now Iris has been taken! Find her and her mother, or you¡¯re all finished!¡± he threatened.


    He then called the police, reporting Iris¡¯s disappearance and the threatening text she had received.


    His next call was to Skr, his voice desperate. ¡°Sky, Iris has been taken. I need you to meet me.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s absence from work had not gone unnoticed. Investors were growing anxious, and thepany¡¯s stock was plummeting. The press caught wind of the turmoil, bringing unwanted attention to the Kendrick family.


    Mr. Kendrick, who had been resting since hisst attack, received the news of Ryan¡¯s mismanagement and thepany¡¯s troubles. He decided it was time to intervene.


    Skr arrived at the designated meeting spot, her face etched with worry. Ryan was pacing, his phone clutched tightly in his hand.¡±Ryan, what happened?¡± Skr asked, rushing to his side.


    ¡°Iris has been taken,¡± Ryan said, his voice breaking. ¡°I don¡¯t know what to do. This is all my fault. If I had just been more careful if I had protected her better¡­¡±Skr ced aforting hand on his shoulder. ¡°We¡¯ll find her, Ryan. We have to stay focused. What did the police say?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re doing everything they can,¡± Ryan replied, ¡°but we can¡¯t rely on them alone. We need to figure out who is behind this.¡±


    Later that night, Ryan sat alone in his study, staring at Iris¡¯s phone. His mind raced with worry and regret. He couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that he had failed her.


    Suddenly, his phone buzzed. It was a message from an unknown number: ¡°We have Iris. If you want to see her again, you¡¯ll follow our instructions.¡±Ryan¡¯s heart pounded as he read the message.


    He knew this was his only chance to save her, but he also knew he was walking into a trap. He quickly called Skr exining the situation. ¡°We need to be smart about this,¡± he said. ¡°They won¡¯t expect us to have a n.¡±As they discussed their strategy, the clock ticked down, the sense of urgency growing.


    Ryan sent a reply to the unknown number: ¡°Tell me what you want.¡±The response came almost immediately: ¡°Come alone to the abandoned warehouse on 5th Street at midnight. Any funny business and she dies.¡±Ryan clenched his fists, determination steeling his nerves.


    ¡°We¡¯ll save her,¡± he vowed, looking at Skr and his father. ¡°No matter what.¡±As the clock struck midnight, Ryan stood outside the warehouse, his heart racing. He took a deep breath and stepped inside, ready to face whatever awaited him.


    The door creaked shut behind him, and he was plunged into darkness. A single light flickered on, revealing a shadowy figure standing in the center of the room.


    ¡°Wee, Ryan,¡± the figure said, a sinister smile ying on their lips. ¡°Let¡¯s see how far you¡¯re willing to go to save the one you love.¡±


    Ryan drove from the hotel to his father¡¯s penthouse, his mind clouded with thoughts of Iris and the predicament she was in. He was staying at the hotel to avoid drama with Be, who was currently in his house.


    Despite his efforts to distance himself, he made sure her needs were taken care of.


    Arriving at the penthouse, Mr. Kendrick¡¯s guards led him to the rooftop where his father was waiting. The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a warm glow over the city.


    ¡°Morning, Dad,¡± Ryan greeted, trying to mask his anxiety. Mr. Kendrick nodded, gesturing for him to sit.


    ¡°Sit.¡±Ryan took a seat, looking at his father who seemed as stern as ever.


    ¡°Get him something to drink,¡± Mr. Kendrick ordered one of the guards.¡±Son, what is going on?¡± he asked, his voice carrying a mix of concern and frustration.


    Ryan sighed, restless and visibly stressed. ¡°Dad, I know I haven¡¯t been the son you always wanted, but a lot is happening that¡¯s beyond my control.


    My marriage is falling apart, Be is pregnant, and Iris and her mother have been abducted. I don¡¯t know where they are.


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°And how does that affect mypany? Thatpany was handed to me by my father.


    If I had handled it the way you have, it would be history by now. You don¡¯t go to work, you don¡¯t attend board meetings, you don¡¯t even engage with our investors.


    Do you know how much we have lost due to your negligence? You refuse to grow up, and now everything is crumbling around you.¡±Mr. Kendrick¡¯s words stung, but Ryan knew they were true.


    ¡°This is how you intend to control my empire when I¡¯m gone? The Kendricks are known for their wisdom.


    What¡¯s happening to you? You don¡¯t act like you have your blood running through your veins. I expected more from you, Ryan. You went as far as deceiving everyone, including me, about your marriage when it was all a contract.¡±

 Chapter 58

    Ryan was shocked to hear that his father knew about the contract marriage. ¡°How did you find out?¡± he thought.¡±Have you forgotten who I am? I¡¯m your father, and I have eyes everywhere.


    This is your mess, Ryan. Fix it and be a man. There will be a board meeting soon. It¡¯s important you attend. I won¡¯t warn you again.¡±Mr. Kendrick¡¯s voice softened slightly. ¡°Get your act together and focus on thepany. I won¡¯t tolerate any more losses or mistakes. Do you understand?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Dad,¡± Ryan said, feeling the weight of his father¡¯s words. ¡°But Dad, I need your help with Iris. My wife,¡± he added.¡±Your contracted wife,¡± Mr. Kendrick corrected.¡±Yes, but I need your help. Can you send your men to search for Iris and her mother? Her mother was abducted at the hospital, and Iris was taken yesterday.¡±


    ¡°And Be? Where is she?¡± Mr. Kendrick asked.¡±She¡¯s at my house. Mum asked her to move in,¡± Ryan replied, ruffling his hair in frustration.¡±I see,¡± Mr. Kendrick said, nodding.


    ¡°Get your act together, Ryan,¡± he repeated, standing up and leaving Ryan to his thoughts.


    Ryan left his father¡¯s penthouse and drove to meet Skr. He felt overwhelmed by everything that had been said, and the weight of his responsibilities pressed heavily on him. Iris¡¯s phone was clutched in his hand.


    They had arranged to meet at a restaurant, a neutral ground where they could discuss their next steps.


    Skr spotted Ryan first and rushed to him. ¡°Hi, Ryan. How¡¯s Iris? I¡¯ve been trying to reach her, but no luck.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s eyes were bloodshot, reflecting hisck of sleep and immense stress. He looked at Skr, his expression bleak.¡±Talk to me, Ryan. What¡¯s happening? Where¡¯s Iris?¡± Skr demanded.


    Ryan took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. ¡°After taking Iris home, Be started causing drama. Iris ran out, and before I could go after her, I got a text from her asking for help. I couldn¡¯t find her.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean you couldn¡¯t find her?¡± Skr yelled, her voiceced with pain. ¡°Did you inform the police? What is happening?¡±


    ¡°Calm down, Sky. We¡¯re going to find Iris and Mrs. Jessica. I promise,¡± Ryan assured her, holding Skr as she cried in his arms.


    Skr felt a deep pain, a hurt she hadn¡¯t felt since losing her grandmother. Mrs. Jessica and Iris had been like family to her.


    She remembered how Mrs. Jessica had always sent food and looked after her grandmother when she had a stroke, and how Iris was always cheerful, putting others before herself.


    ¡°We¡¯ll find them,¡± Skr said firmly. ¡°But we need to be smart about it. Do you have any leads?¡±


    ¡°Just one,¡± Ryan said, pulling out a piece of paper with an address on it. ¡°It¡¯s an address we found in Be¡¯s file. It might be a lead.¡±


    ¡°Then that¡¯s where we start,¡± Skr said. ¡°We¡¯ll go there and see what we can find.¡±


    Ryan and Skr drove to the address, a rundown warehouse on the outskirts of the city. They parked a safe distance away and approached cautiously


    .¡±This ce gives me the creeps,¡± Skr whispered.¡±Me too,¡± Ryan replied, scanning the area for any signs of activity. ¡°Let¡¯s be quick.¡±They entered the warehouse, the air thick with dust and the smell of mildew.


    The inside was dimly lit, and the sound of dripping water echoed through the space.¡±Look over there,¡± Skr said, pointing to a small office in the corner. ¡°Maybe we can find something in there.¡±


    They made their way to the office and began searching through the papers and files scattered on the desk. After several minutes, Skr found a folderbeled ¡°Kendrick.¡±


    ¡°Ryan, look at this,¡± she said, handing him the folder. Ryan opened it and found documents detailing transactions andmunications between Be and an unknown party.¡±This is it,¡± Ryan said, his heart racing. ¡°This is the proof we need. Be is involved in this.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here,¡± Skr said. ¡°We need to take this to the police.¡±As they turned to leave, they heard footsteps approaching. Ryan and Skr froze, hiding behind the desk.


    The footsteps grew louder, and they could hear voices.¡± I told you to keep this ce secure,¡± one voice said angrily. ¡°We can¡¯t afford any mistakes.¡±


    ¡°I did, boss,¡± another voice replied. ¡°No one knows about this ce.¡±Ryan and Skr held their breath, praying they wouldn¡¯t be discovered.


    The voices eventually faded, and the footsteps retreated. Ryan and Skr waited a few more minutes before cautiously emerging from their hiding spot.¡±Let¡¯s go,¡± Ryan whispered.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    They quickly made their way out of the warehouse and back to their car. Ryan drove back to the city, his mind racing with thoughts of what they had just discovered.


    .¡±We need to get this to the police,¡± Ryan said. ¡°This is the break we¡¯ve been waiting for,¡± Skr nodded. ¡°We¡¯ll go straight to the station. This evidence should be enough to get them to take action.¡±


    Ryan and Skr arrived at the police station and handed over the folder to Detective Harris, who had been assigned to the case.¡±This is big,¡± Harris said, flipping through the documents. ¡°We¡¯ll need to act on this immediately. Thank you for bringing this to us.¡±


    ¡°Just find them,¡± Ryan said, his voice filled with desperation. ¡°Find Iris and her mother.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll do everything we can,¡± Harris promised. As they left the station, Ryan¡¯s phone buzzed with a new message. He opened it and his blood ran cold. The message read:


    ¡°You may have found some of the pieces, but the game isn¡¯t over yet. Come alone to the abandoned pier at midnight if you want to see Iris alive.¡±Ryan showed the message to Skr, his hands shaking. ¡°This isn¡¯t over,¡± he said, determination in his eyes.


    ¡°We have to be ready for anything.¡±The clock ticked down, and the sense of urgency grew.


    The next move would be crucial, and Ryan knew that the stakes had never been higher. The secrets were starting to unravel, but the danger was far from over.


    Ryan steeled himself for the confrontation ahead, knowing that failure was not an option. Iris¡¯s life depended on it, and he would stop at nothing to save her.


    Mrs. Jessica slowly opened her eyes, the dim light in the room barely illuminating the surroundings.


    Her head throbbed, and she felt the coarse ropes binding her to the bed, restricting her movements. Panic surged through her as she called out, ¡°Iris? Iris! Skr!¡±


    The door creaked open, and a shadowy figure entered the room. Mrs. Jessica weakly spoke, ¡°Please, don¡¯t kill me. I haven¡¯t done any wrong. I just want to be with my daughter. You can take whatever you want, but just leave us alone.¡±


    The figureughed uncontrobly, a sinister sound that sent chills down her spine. ¡°We don¡¯t want anything from you. We want your life,¡± they said,ughing hard again before leaving the room and locking the door behind them.


    Mrs. Jessica cried weakly, the pain from her recent operation still gnawing at her. She hadn¡¯t eaten in days and felt extremely weak. She thought about her daughter, Iris, and how they had suffered all their lives. Her thoughts eventually lulled her into an uneasy sleep.


    Meanwhile, Be continued to stay in Ryan¡¯s house, much to everyone¡¯s dismay.


    One afternoon, Ivy arrived, surprised to see Be in Ryan¡¯s House.


    ¡°Be?¡± Ivy called out, astonished.


    ¡°Hi, hottest model in town,¡± Be hailed. Ivy smiled weakly.


    ¡°Hi, Be. What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°Surprised? Well, I now live with your brother since we¡¯re expecting your cousin,¡± Be said, rubbing her t stomach for effect.¡±Oh, I see. And where¡¯s Ryan?¡± Ivy asked, her tone curious.


    ¡°He stepped out,¡± Be replied nonchntly.¡±To where?¡± Ivy pressed.¡±I don¡¯t know. He didn¡¯t tell me where he was going,¡± Be said, attempting to appear unconcerned.


    ¡°And you said you both live together? He left the house without telling you?¡± Ivy¡¯s skepticism was evident.¡±Uhmm, don¡¯t mind your brother. You know how he can be. But I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll be back home soon,¡± Be replied, trying to sound confident.


    Ivy nodded, her eyes fixed on Be¡¯s stomach. ¡°Why isn¡¯t your stomach protruding yet?¡±


    ¡°What? Come on, it is. The doctor said I¡¯m doing just fine. You should start seeing it by next month. I¡¯m still at the early stage,¡± Be said defensively.¡±Oh, I see. Well, I haven¡¯t been pregnant before, so what do I know?¡± Ivy smiled as she walked past Be and headed upstairs.


    ¡°Has anyone told you you look so much like Iris, or is it just me?¡± Be asked, attempting to be conversational.


    Ivy stopped midway up the stairs and turned to look at Be. ¡°Well, this is the first time I¡¯ve heard it, and I don¡¯t think that¡¯s a good thing to say,¡± she replied with a fake smile before continuing upstairs.

 Chapter 59

    Ryan and Skr sat in the restaurant, strategizing their next move. Ryan was frantic with worry, and Skr tried to remain calm to support him.


    ¡°We need to figure out where they took Iris and Mrs. Jessica,¡± Skr said, tapping her fingers on the table.¡±I know. I¡¯ve got my father¡¯s men looking into it, but we need to find more leads,¡± Ryan said, frustration evident in his voice.


    Skr¡¯s phone buzzed, and she quickly checked it. ¡°I¡¯ve got a contact who might know something. He¡¯s got connections with some undergroundworks. I¡¯ll set up a meeting.¡±


    ¡°Do it. We need every lead we can get,¡± Ryan said, his mind racing Later that evening, Ryan and Skr met Skr¡¯s contact, a man named Marcus, in a dimly lit bar.


    ¡°I hear you¡¯re looking for someone,¡± Marcus said, his voice low and gruff.¡±Two people, actually. A woman and her daughter. They were abducted,¡± Skr exined, showing him photos of Iris and Mrs. Jessica.


    Marcus studied the photos and nodded. ¡°I might know something, but it won¡¯te cheap.¡±


    ¡°Name your price,¡± Ryan said urgently.¡±Ten grand,¡± Marcus replied without hesitation. Ryan didn¡¯t flinch. ¡°Done. Just tell us what you know.¡±Marcus pocketed the money Ryan handed him and leaned in. ¡°There¡¯s a ce on the outskirts of town. An old factory that¡¯s been abandoned for years. The word is, it¡¯s been used for some shady business recently. Might be worth checking out.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Ryan said, standing up. ¡°We¡¯ll check it out.¡±


    ¡°Be careful,¡± Marcus warned. ¡°It¡¯s not a safe ce.¡±


    Ryan and Skr drove to the old factory, their hearts pounding with anticipation and fear. They parked a distance away and approached cautiously, their shlights cutting through the darkness.¡±This ce is creepy,¡± Skr whispered.


    ¡°Stay close,¡± Ryan replied, leading the way. They reached the factory and found an entrance that had been forced open. They slipped inside, moving quietly through the shadows. The ce was eerily silent, the only sound being their footsteps echoing off the walls


    . Ryan spotted a door that seemed out of ce, its lock recently broken. ¡°Over here,¡± he whispered to Skr. They carefully opened the door and stepped into a small room.


    There, tied to a chair and barely conscious, was an old woman.¡± Hello he said, rushing to her side.


    Ryan quickly untied her, checking for injuries. ¡± can you hear me, ma¡¯am? My name is Ryan. We¡¯re here to take you home.


    ¡°The woman¡¯s eyes fluttered open, relief washing over her face. Thank God.¡±


    ¡°We need to get you out of here,¡± Ryan said, lifting her gently. ¡°Can you walk?¡± The woman nodded weakly. ¡°Yes, I think so.¡±


    As they made their way out of the factory, They looked around to see if there was someone else but the ce was empty.


    Ryan rushed to the office, his phone call with Luca reying in his mind. ¡°Ryan, it¡¯s urgent. Investors are here to discuss potential partnerships. You need to get here immediately,¡± Luca had said, his voice tense.


    He had asked Skr to take the woman they found to the police station so she could be united with her family, he wished it was Mrs Jessica.


    Ryan¡¯s thoughts were a whirlwind as he sped through the city. He couldn¡¯t shake the image of Iris¡¯s frightened face at the docks, the unknown threats looming over her and Mrs. Jessica.


    Arriving at the office, he took a deep breath, trying topose himself. As he entered the waiting room, he saw three men sitting with an air of impatience.


    They stood up as he approached.¡±Good morning, gentlemen,¡± Ryan greeted them, extending his hand.


    They exchanged pleasantries before moving into the conference room.


    Ryan¡¯s mind was partially present as the meeting began. The men introduced themselves and began discussing their proposal.


    He nodded along, but his thoughts kept drifting back to Iris.¡±Mr. Kendrick, do you understand?¡± A voice jolted him back to reality.¡±Yes, yes, I understand. I¡¯m sorry, please go on,¡± Ryan said, trying to focus


    . One of the investors, a tall man with sharp features, continued, ¡°Well, Mr. Kendrick, we see thispany as a prime opportunity for partnership. We believe this venture will be profitable for both parties. We look forward to your review of our proposal.¡±Luca, sensing Ryan¡¯s distraction, quickly interjected, ¡°Thank you for your proposal. We¡¯ll review it and get back to you shortly.


    ¡°Ryan stood up, forcing a smile, and saw the investors out. ¡°Mr. Kendrick, I hope everything is okay with you?¡± one of the investors, dressed in ck with a ck hat, asked.¡±Yeah, I¡¯m fine. Thank you,¡± Ryan replied with a light smile.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    After the investors had left, Luca turned to Ryan. ¡°Buddy, I¡¯ve known you for years, and I¡¯ve never seen you in such a mood. You were absent-minded throughout the meeting. What¡¯s going on?¡±Ryan sighed as they stepped into the elevator.


    ¡°A lot is happening, Lu. A whole lot,¡± he said, running a hand through his hair. ¡°Iris is missing, after her mother went missing. And Be is at my house, pregnant with my child.¡±Luca¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°What?!!!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a mess, Lu. I don¡¯t know where to start,¡± Ryan said, his voice breaking.¡±Start from the beginning. What happened to Iris and Mrs. Jessica?¡± Luca asked, his concern evident.


    Ryan took a deep breath and began to exin. ¡°Iris and I were getting close, despite everything.


    But after an argument with Be, Iris ran out, and then she disappeared. I got a text from her phone saying she needed help, but I couldn¡¯t find her.


    Later, I found out that Mrs. Jessica was abducted from the hospital.¡±Luca listened intently.


    You had all this going on, and you didn¡¯t say anything or tell me about it? Come on, dude,¡± Luca said, his voice filled with concern


    .¡±I wasn¡¯t thinking straight, man,¡± Ryan replied, looking exhausted.¡±Well, you should have informed me. Still no word from Iris or her mom?¡± Luca asked, leaning against the desk.¡±Nothing.


    ¡°Have you involved the police?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but they¡¯re not making much progress. I have some private investigators on it, too. And then there¡¯s Be, who¡¯s pregnant and staying at my ce,¡± Ryan added, frustration creeping into his voice. Luca shook his head.


    ¡°Man, you¡¯ve got a lot on your te. But you can¡¯t let it affect your work like this. These investors are crucial for thepany¡¯s future.¡±


    ¡°I know, I know,¡± Ryan said, leaning against the elevator wall. ¡°I just can¡¯t stop thinking about Iris. I have to find her, Lu.¡±


    ¡°We will,¡± Luca said firmly. ¡°But you need to keep it together here, too. Thepany needs you.¡±


    I¡¯m very worried. I don¡¯t know how Iris is. Her mom is still recovering from her operation. I feel terrible. I caused all this. If I didn¡¯t marry her, all this wouldn¡¯t have happened.


    I got married to her and couldn¡¯t protect her,¡± Ryanmented bitterly.


    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault, man. Don¡¯t be too hard on yourself. We will find a way out of this. We will get Iris back,¡± Luca assured him.¡±How? I don¡¯t even know where to begin. The abductors left no trace or clue,¡± Ryan said, frustration evident in his voice.


    ¡°There must be something we could find somehow¡­ Be strong, man, for Iris,¡± Luca said, giving him a tap on the shoulder.¡±I¡¯m still surprised how Be managed to navigate her way into your life.


    Pregnancyes with a huge responsibility, but with all this happening at the same time, I can¡¯t say I understand what you¡¯re going through, but it¡¯s a lot,¡± Luca said, observing Ryan¡¯s pale and disorganized appearance.


    ¡°So what¡¯s the n now?¡± Luca asked.¡±I don¡¯t know yet. I can¡¯t even go home. Be keeps nagging, and my mom wants me to get married to her. Dad has found out about my contract marriage with Iris,¡± Ryan said.


    ¡°How?¡± Luca asked in shock.¡±I don¡¯t know. He just said that I couldn¡¯t deceive him and he had his eyes everywhere.¡±


    ¡°Oh boy,¡± Luca said, shaking his head.¡±I need to get going. I have to stop at the police station to know if there are any updates,¡± Ryan said.¡±I¡¯ming with you,¡± Luca offered.¡±Alright, man,¡± Ryan said as he nodded.


    As they both stepped out of the elevator, Ryan¡¯s phone buzzed. He nced at the screen and saw an unknown number. He hesitated before answering.¡±Hello?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick, we have your wife,¡± the voice on the other end said, sending a chill down Ryan¡¯s spine. ¡°If you want to see her alive,e to the old warehouse on the east side. Alone.¡±The call ended abruptly, leaving Ryan with a sinking feeling.


    He turned to Luca, his face pale. ¡°They have Iris. They want me toe alone.¡±Luca¡¯s expression turned serious. ¡°We need to think this through. It could be a trap.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care. I have to go,¡± Ryan said, determination in his eyes.¡±Fine, but I¡¯ming with you. We¡¯ll figure out a n,¡± Luca insisted.


    Ryan and Luca drove to the old warehouse, tension thick in the air. They parked a distance away and approached cautiously, their eyes scanning the area for any signs of danger.


    Ryan¡¯s heart pounded as they neared the entrance. He pushed the door open and stepped inside, his eyes adjusting to the dim light. The sound of footsteps echoed through the space.


    ¡°Iris?¡± Ryan called out, his voice echoing.¡±Over here,¡± a voice replied, a shadowy figure standing behind her.¡±Let her go,¡± Ryan demanded, stepping forward.


    ¡°Not so fast,¡± the figure said, revealing a gun. ¡°We need to discuss terms first.¡±Ryan¡¯s mind raced as he tried to think of a way to save Iris without getting them both killed. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°Money, of course,¡± the figure said with a sneer. ¡°But more than that, I want to see you suffer. You and your family.

 Chapter 60

    Ivy remained in her room, reminiscing about what Be said.


    ¡°You look so much like your brother¡¯s wife,¡± the voice from the show echoed in her head.


    She was told this same thing at the fashion show, and now Be said it again.


    ¡°But we don¡¯t look alike, do we?¡± she asked herself.


    She searched for Iris¡¯s pictures but couldn¡¯t find any.


    She remembered their wedding pictures and searched for them.


    She finally saw a picture of Iris on Instagram. She saved it andpared it to hers. She looked closely and saw that they had a striking resemnce.


    Her nose was pointed in the same way, and they had the same shape of eyes too.


    She shook her head to get rid of the thought. ¡°It might just be a coincidence,¡± she thought as she dropped her phone and decided to go take a shower.


    After her shower, Ivy felt a renewed determination to get to the bottom of this mystery.


    She decided to do some deep findings about Iris. She sat at her desk, opened herptop, and began searching for any information that could connect her to Iris.


    Hours passed as she dug through social media profiles, news articles, and public records. She found a few obscure mentions of Iris and her mother, but nothing that provided any substantial clues.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Frustrated, she leaned back in her chair, rubbing her temples. ¡°There has to be something I¡¯m missing,¡± she muttered to herself.


    Ryan and Luca arrived at the police station, their faces grim.


    They approached Detective Ramirez, who was leading the investigation


    .¡±Detective, any updates?¡± Ryan asked, his voice filled with desperation.


    Detective Ramirez shook his head. ¡°We¡¯ve been following up on leads, but nothing concrete yet. We¡¯re doing everything we can.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not good enough,¡± Ryan snapped. ¡°Iris and her mother are in danger. We need to find them.¡±


    ¡°We understand your frustration, Mr. Kendrick. We¡¯re working around the clock on this case,¡± Detective Ramirez said calmly.


    Ryan clenched his fists, feeling helpless. ¡°I need to do something. Sitting around and waiting is driving me crazy.¡±


    ¡°Let us handle the investigation. If you have any new information, please share it with us,¡± Detective Ramirez said.


    Ryan nodded reluctantly. ¡°I will. Please keep me updated.¡±As they left the station, Luca ced a reassuring hand on Ryan¡¯s shoulder. ¡°We¡¯ll find them, Ryan. We¡¯ll find a way.¡±


    Back at home, Ivy continued her search. She decided to focus on Mrs. Jessica, thinking there might be something in her past that could provide a clue.


    As they stood there, digesting the new information, Ryan¡¯s phone buzzed again. He nced at the screen and saw another unknown number. He answered it, his heart pounding. ¡°Hello?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick, we have new terms. If you want to see your wife and her mother alive, you need to bring the documents you signed with Iris. Meet us at the same warehouse, ande alone. No tricks this time,¡± the voice said before the call ended.


    Ryan¡¯s blood ran cold. ¡°They want the contract documents. They think it¡¯s important.¡±Luca looked at him, concern etched on his face. ¡°We need a n, Ryan. We can¡¯t let them control this situation.¡±


    Ryan nodded determination in his eyes. ¡°We¡¯ll get Iris and Mrs. Jessica back. Whatever it takes.¡±As they began to strategize, the weight of the new revtions hung over them,plicating an already dangerous situation.


    Ryan decided to head home after visiting the police station and reaching out to his men and investigators.


    His phone buzzed, and he saw it was a call from Ivy.¡±Hello, Ivy,¡± Ryan answered.¡±Ryan, I¡¯m home. Are youing back?¡± Ivy¡¯s voice sounded urgent.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll be there soon,¡± he replied, feeling a pang of concern for his sister.


    He would have returned to the hotel where he was staying, but because of Ivy, he headed back home.


    The guards and maids greeted him as he walked in. He climbed the stairs and entered his room, finding Be there as usual.


    ¡°Wee home, honey,¡± she greeted warmly.¡±Thank you,¡± Ryan replied coldly, barely looking at her


    .¡±So, you have been avoiding us?¡± Be asked, her tone sharp.¡±Who¡¯s the ¡®us¡¯?¡± Ryan asked, feigning ignorance.¡±Your baby and I, of course,¡± Be replied, annoyance creeping into her voice.


    ¡°I am not avoiding anyone. I¡¯ve just been busy with work,¡± Ryan replied, taking off his tie and suit.¡±Busy with work or busy looking for your lost whore?¡± Be barked.


    Ryan¡¯s vision blurred with rage. He rushed to Be and held her by her neck, his grip tightening. ¡°How dare you speak of her like that? Don¡¯t you ever repeat that nonsense, do you understand?¡± His voice was a dangerous growl, and he didn¡¯t realize he was choking Be.


    ¡°Ryan, stop! Leave her alone. She¡¯s pregnant, can¡¯t you see? Are you trying to kill her?¡± Ivy¡¯s voice cut through the fog of his anger.


    She rushed towards them and pulled Ryan¡¯s hands off Be¡¯s neck.


    Be staggered backward and fell onto the bed, gasping for air and holding her neck. Ivy handed her a ss of water, which she gulped down, coughing and struggling to breathe.


    Ryan stormed out of the room in frustration, his hands shaking.¡±Are you okay?¡± Ivy asked Be, concern in her voice.¡±Yes, I¡¯m fine. Your brother tried to kill me. I will have to report him to the authorities,¡± Be gasped.¡±I¡¯m sorry about that. I will go talk to him. Sorry, Be,¡± Ivy said, making sure Be was stable before leaving to find Ryan.


    Ivy found Ryan in his study, sipping whisky from a ss. She sat across from him, her expression serious.


    ¡°That wasn¡¯t so good, Ryan. You almost killed her,¡± Ivy said.¡±I don¡¯t care. She should just leave me alone,¡± Ryan replied, his voice void of emotion.


    ¡°What is happening around here? Where¡¯s Iris? And why is Be now living with you?¡± Ivy asked, confusion and concern in her voice.¡±You should ask your mom, who keeps insisting I marry Be, even though my wife is nowhere to be found,¡± Ryan said bitterly.


    ¡°What do you mean by ¡®nowhere to be found¡¯? What happened to Iris?¡± Ivy asked, her eyes wide with shock


    .¡±Iris and her mother have been missing for days now. Her mother was abducted at the hospital, and Iris was taken when she left the house.


    All efforts to find them have been in vain. The abductors left no trace. Thepany needs me, but I can¡¯t do anything. I¡¯m helpless. I can¡¯t even think straight. It¡¯s all my fault,¡± Ryan said, his voice cracking as he gulped down the whisky, his face contorted in pain


    . Ivy felt goosebumps all over her body. She didn¡¯t know why, but she felt a deep sense of pain. ¡°How did all this happen, and you never told me? When did it happen?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve told the police and hired private investigators, but no one has any positive news,¡± Ryan said, his despair palpable.


    She stood up and went close to her brother. In all their lives together as siblings, she had never seen Ryan in this state. It was terrible to watch him like this. She hugged him, sharing in his pain.


    ¡°We will find them, don¡¯t worry, Ryan. We¡¯re in this together,¡± she said, resting her head on his as he cried.


    Be, who had been eavesdropping on them, quickly went to her room and locked the door behind her. She took her phone and called Mrs. Rose.


    ¡°Hello, ma. Good day,¡± Be greeted.¡±How¡¯s my grandchild doing?¡± Mrs. Rose asked.¡±Your grandchild is doing great, ma,¡± Be replied.


    ¡°Ma, I have something to tell you. Ryan almost choked me to death today, if not for Ivy¡¯s intervention. He tried to kill me. And now he is still talking about finding Iris. He doesn¡¯t care about me and his child. He doesn¡¯t sleep at home or stay around us. He only came home today because Ivy is around,¡± Beined.


    ¡°Alright, ma. I will be expecting you,¡± Be said as she hung up.


    A few hourster, Mrs. Rose arrived at Ryan¡¯s house. Ryan and Ivy were surprised to see her.¡±Mum, you didn¡¯t tell us you wereing,¡± Ryan said.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s because I don¡¯t need to inform anyone before Ie to see my grandchild,¡± Mrs. Rose said as she heard footstepsing down the staircase. She looked up and saw it was Be and a broad smile spread across her face.¡±Oh, my darling,e here,¡± Mrs. Rose said, beckoning Be.


    Be had her hands on her waist as she walked towards Mrs. Rose, smiling. She sat down beside her.¡±How¡¯s my grandchild doing?¡± Mrs. Rose asked.¡±She¡¯s doing great, ma,¡± Be replied.¡±Good,¡± Mrs. Rose said, her attention focused on Be, as though Ryan and Ivy were invisible.


    ¡°Mum, is it only Be and your grandchild that are here?¡± Ivy asked.¡±Well, they are the most important people right now,¡± Mrs. Rose replied.

 Chapter 61

    ¡°Ryan,¡± Mrs. Rose called, ¡°when are you getting married to Be?¡±


    ¡°Getting married to who?¡± Ryan asked, incredulous. ¡°I¡¯m only responsible for the child, not Be. I can¡¯t marry Be.¡±Be¡¯s eyes went dim and cold at Ryan¡¯s words.¡±Don¡¯t dare me, Ryan. Don¡¯t. You will have to marry Be and take care of her, and that¡¯s final. What is this? I heard about you almost choking her to death. Are you mad, Ryan? Do you want to kill a pregnant woman?¡± Mrs. Rose barked.


    ¡°Get married to Be or have me to deal with,¡± she said


    . Ivy looked at Be, a deep-seated dislike brewing within her.¡±I won¡¯t and can never marry Be, and that is final. My wife is still out there missing, and you are asking me to marry Be? Mum, do you even have a heart?¡± Ryan asked, his voice filled with pain.


    ¡°Mind your tone and how you speak to me, young man I won¡¯t warn you again,¡± Mrs. Rose said.


    ¡°You might as well take Be to live with you if you don¡¯t want me to kill her anytime soon,¡± Ryan said, leaving the room.¡±Ryan! Ryan!¡± his mother called, but he didn¡¯t respond.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind him, Be. He won¡¯t do anything to you. Just rx and don¡¯t stress my grandchild,¡± Mrs. Rose said. Ivy watched the entire scene unfold before her eyes, her feelings towards Be growing colder.


    ¡°Ivy, talk to your brother,¡± Mrs. Rose said.


    Ivy rolled her eyes and rxed on the couch, watching her mum and Be chit-chat before Mrs. Rose finally left the house.


    Ryan sat in his study, his mind racing. The thought of marrying Be repulsed him, but he knew he needed to keep a clear head to find Iris.


    He picked up his phone and dialed Luca¡¯s number.¡±Luca, I need your help. We need toe up with a n,¡± Ryan said.¡±I¡¯ll be right over,¡± Luca replied. Ryan hung up the phone and took a deep breath.


    He couldn¡¯t let his emotions cloud his judgment. He had to be strong for Iris.


    Ryan and Luca sat in the study, pouring over the details of the case. They needed a breakthrough, something to point them in the right direction.


    Ryan¡¯s study was dimly lit, the soft glow from themp casting shadows on the walls.


    Luca sat across from him, tension evident in his posture.¡±We need a n, Ryan. This isn¡¯t just about the documents anymore. They¡¯re ying a dangerous game,¡± Luca said, leaning forward.


    Ryan nodded, his mind racing. ¡°I know. But we need to keep calm and think this through. We can¡¯t afford any mistakes.


    ¡°Suddenly, Ivy appeared at the door, her face a mask of concern. ¡°Ryan, can we talk?¡±Ryan looked at Luca, who nodded and stood up. ¡°I¡¯ll give you two some privacy. We¡¯ll continue thister,¡± he said, leaving the room


    . Ivy closed the door behind her and walked over to Ryan. ¡°Ryan, I need to know everything that¡¯s going on. I can help,¡± she said, her voice steady.


    Ryan sighed, running a hand through his hair. ¡°Ivy, it¡¯splicated. I don¡¯t want you getting involved. It¡¯s too dangerous.¡±Ivy ced a hand on his shoulder. ¡°I¡¯m already involved, Ryan. I¡¯m your sister. I care about you and Iris. Please, let me help.¡±


    Ryan looked into her eyes, seeing the determination there. ¡°Alright. But you need to promise me you¡¯ll be careful.¡±Ivy nodded. ¡°I promise. Now, tell me everything.¡±


    As Ryan began to exin the situation, Ivy listened intently, her mind working quickly. She knew she had to y her cards right to get what she wanted.


    Be paced in her room, frustration bubbling inside her. She needed to find a way to secure her ce in Ryan¡¯s life, especially with the baby on the way.


    Her phone buzzed, and she saw it was Mrs. Rose calling again.¡±Hello, ma,¡± Be answered.¡±How are you feeling, Be? Any news?¡± Mrs. Rose asked.¡±I¡¯m feeling better, but Ryan is still obsessed with finding Iris.


    He won¡¯t listen to me,¡± Be replied, her voice tinged with annoyance.¡±Don¡¯t worry, dear. We¡¯ll handle this.


    You just focus on staying healthy for the baby. Ryan wille around,¡± Mrs. Rose assured her.¡±Thank you, ma. I hope so,¡± Be said, ending the call.


    She knew she needed to take matters into her own hands. She couldn¡¯t rely on Mrs. Rose forever.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Later that evening, Ivy slipped out of the house and headed to a secluded cafe downtown. She needed to meet someone who could help her.


    As she walked in, she spotted the man she was looking for sitting at a corner table.¡±Thank you for meeting me,¡± Ivy said, taking a seat across from him.


    The man nodded. ¡°Of course, Miss Kendrick. What can I do for you?¡±


    ¡°I need information on the people who took my sister-inw and her mother. I need to know everything,¡± Ivy said, her voice low.


    The man raised an eyebrow. ¡°That¡¯s a tall order. It won¡¯t be easy or cheap.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about the cost. Just get me the information,¡± Ivy replied, her eyes cold and determined.


    The man nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll see what I can do. Give me a few days.¡±Ivy nodded, standing up. ¡°Thank you. I appreciate it.¡±As she left the cafe, Ivy felt a sense of satisfaction.


    She was going to get to the bottom of this, no matter what it took.


    Back at the house, Ryan received another call from an unknown number.


    His heart raced as he answered it.¡± Mr. Kendrick, time is running out. We need those documents, or your wife and her mother will suffer,¡± the voice said


    . Ryan clenched his jaw. ¡°I need more time. I don¡¯t have the documents with me.¡±


    ¡°You have 24 hours. No more dys,¡± the voice said before hanging up.


    Ryan threw his phone down in frustration. He needed to find those documents and fast. He couldn¡¯t let anything happen to Iris.


    The next morning, Ryan and Ivy sat in the study, going through piles of papers and files, searching for the documents the kidnappers wanted. Ivy watched Ryan closely, her mind working on a different n


    .¡±Ryan, I think I found something,¡± Ivy said, holding up a file.


    Ryan took it from her, his eyes scanning the contents. ¡°This is it. These are the documents.¡±


    ¡°We need toe up with a n. We can¡¯t just hand these over without a strategy,¡± Ivy said. Ryan nodded. ¡°You¡¯re right. We¡¯ll figure something out.¡±


    As they continued to strategize, Be knocked on the door and walked in. ¡°Ryan, can we talk?¡±


    ¡°Not now, Be. We¡¯re in the middle of something important,¡± Ryan replied, not looking up


    . Be¡¯s eyes shed with anger, but she masked it quickly. ¡°I need to talk to you about the baby. It¡¯s important.¡±Ryan sighed and stood up. ¡°Fine. Let¡¯s talk.¡±As they left the room, Ivy¡¯s phone buzzed with a message.


    She nced at it and smiled. The man from the cafe had sent her a lead. She needed to follow it up quickly.


    Ivy met with the man againter that day. He handed her a folder filled with information. ¡°This is everything I could find. Be careful, Miss Kendrick. These people are dangerous.¡±


    ¡°I will. Thank you,¡± Ivy said, taking the folder. As she read through the documents, a n began to form in her mind. She knew she had to be careful, but she was determined to get what she wanted.


    Ryan couldn¡¯t sleep. He paced back and forth in his study, the weight of the documents in his hands feeling heavier with each step. The phone call had been a stark reminder of the danger Iris and her mother were in.


    He had to act, and quickly.


    Meanwhile, Ivy was in her room, examining the folder the man from the cafe had given her. She read through the information, her mind racing.


    The documents detailed various criminal activities and connections that linked back to someone she hadn¡¯t expected: a man named Victor.


    Ivy had heard whispers about him before, but she never imagined he would be involved in something like this.


    The next morning, Ryan met with Luca in his office. ¡°We need to be careful, Luca. This isn¡¯t just about the documents anymore. There¡¯s someone else involved.¡±


    ¡°Who?¡± Luca asked, leaning forward.¡±A man named Victor. Ivy found some information about him. He¡¯s dangerous,¡± Ryan exined


    . Luca¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°I¡¯ve heard of him. He¡¯s not someone to mess with, bute to think of it, don¡¯t you think we have just been moving around in circles with still no positive results.¡±


    Don¡¯t you think the people involved know what they are doing? They keep texting you and calling you to different locations, all invalid. We need to tread carefully.¡±


    Ryan nodded. ¡°I know. We need a n. Let¡¯s get Ivy in here. She might have more information.¡±


    Ivy walked into the office, her expression serious. ¡°Ryan, Luca, I have something to tell you. The man I met with gave me a lead. There¡¯s a man named Victor involved in all of this. He¡¯s the one pulling the strings.¡±


    Ryan and Luca exchanged nces. ¡°What do you know about him?¡± Luca asked.¡±Not much, but he¡¯s connected to a lot of criminal activities. Drugs, arms dealing, you name it. He¡¯s dangerous, and he¡¯s after those documents,¡± Ivy exined.


    Ryan clenched his fists. ¡°We need to find him. He¡¯s the key to getting Iris and her mother back.¡±

 Chapter 62

    Ryan, Luca, and Ivy spent the next few hours formting a n. They knew they couldn¡¯t go to the police Victor had connections everywhere.


    They needed to handle this themselves.¡±I¡¯ll make the exchange,¡± Ryan said.


    ¡°But we need a backup n in case things go wrong.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll follow from a distance,¡± Luca suggested. ¡°If anything goes south, I¡¯ll be there to help.¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯ll keep digging for more information on Victor,¡± Ivy added. ¡°We need to know what we¡¯re up against.¡±Ryan nodded.


    ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s do this.¡±


    The following evening, Ryan stood in a deserted warehouse, the documents in a briefcase by his side.


    His heart pounded in his chest as he waited. Luca was hidden nearby, ready to intervene if necessary.


    A car pulled up, and a man stepped out. He was tall, with a scar running down his left cheek. ¡°Mr. Kendrick, I presume?¡± the man said, his voice cold.


    ¡°Yes. Do you have Iris and her mother?¡± Ryan asked, trying to keep his voice steady.


    The man smirked. ¡°They¡¯re safe, for now. Do you have the documents?¡±Ryan lifted the briefcase. ¡°They¡¯re all here.¡±


    ¡°Good. Hand them over,¡± the man demanded.


    Ryan hesitated, ncing around. He didn¡¯t see Luca, but he trusted his friend was close.


    He stepped forward and handed the briefcase to the man.


    As the man opened it to check the contents, a loud bang echoed through the warehouse.


    Ryan turned to see Luca rushing towards him, gun drawn.¡±Drop it!¡± Luca shouted.


    The man smirked and reached into his jacket. Before Ryan could react, the man pulled out a gun and fired.


    Ryan felt a searing pain in his side as he dropped to the ground.


    Ryany on the cold concrete, gasping for breath. He could hear Luca shouting, but his vision blurred. He fought to stay conscious, but the pain was overwhelming.


    ¡°Iris¡± he whispered, his voice barely audible.


    Luca reached Ryan¡¯s side, pressing his hands to the wound to stop the bleeding. ¡°Stay with me, Ryan. You¡¯re going to be okay,¡± Luca said, his voice strained with panic.


    Ryan¡¯s vision darkened, and thest thing he saw was the man¡¯s cold, calcting eyes before everything went ck.


    Back at the house, Ivy paced nervously. She hadn¡¯t heard from Ryan or Luca since they left for the exchange.


    Her phone buzzed, and she grabbed it quickly.¡±It¡¯s Luca. Ryan¡¯s been shot. We¡¯re at the hospital,¡± Luca¡¯s voice came through the line, filled with urgency.


    Ivy¡¯s heart dropped. ¡°I¡¯ll be there as soon as I can,¡± she said, hanging up and rushing out the door.


    At the hospital, Ivy found Luca in the waiting room, covered in blood. ¡°How is he?¡± she asked, her voice trembling.


    Luca shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s bad, Ivy. They¡¯re doing everything they can.¡±Ivy felt a surge of anger and determination. ¡°We need to find Victor. He¡¯s behind this. We can¡¯t let him get away with it.¡±Luca nodded. ¡°I know. But right now, we need to focus on Ryan. We¡¯ll get Victor, I promise.


    Ryany unconscious in the hospital bed, the sterile smell of antiseptic filling the room.


    Ivy stood beside him, her hands trembling as she dialed her parents¡¯ numbers.


    ¡°Mom, Dad, it¡¯s Ivy. Ryan¡¯s been shot. We¡¯re at the Hospital,¡± she said, her voice breaking.


    Within moments, Mr. and Mrs. Kendrick rushed into the hospital, their faces pale with worry.


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes zed with fury as she approached Ivy.


    ¡°Who did this to my son? What happened?¡± Mrs. Rose demanded, her voice trembling with anger.


    Ivy swallowed hard. ¡°He was trying to find Iris. We were ambushed. I¡­ I didn¡¯t see who shot him.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes widened with rage. ¡°What were you both thinking? He could have been killed!¡± she yelled.


    Ivy flinched, tears streaming down her face. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mom. We just wanted to find Iris.¡±


    Mrs. Rose shook her head and stormed off to find Dr. Parker.


    She barged into his office, mming the door behind her.¡±What happened to our son? How is he? Is he going to make it?¡± she demanded, tears streaming down her face.


    Dr. Parker stood up, moving tofort her. ¡°Calm down, honey. I¡¯ve done everything I can. He¡¯s out of immediate danger, but he needs time to recover.


    The bullet didn¡¯t do too much harm.¡±Mrs. Rose sobbed into his chest as he hugged her Passionately, kissing her head. ¡°I told him to stop, but he wouldn¡¯t listen,¡± she whispered.


    There was a knock at the door. They quickly separated, and Mrs. Rose sat down, wiping her tears.


    ¡°Come in,¡± Dr. Parker called. Mr. Kendrick entered, his face etched with concern. ¡°Parker, how¡¯s my son¡¯s condition?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s out of danger and just needs to recover now,¡± Dr. Parker replied.¡±Oh, thank you, Parker. Thank you very much,¡± Mr. Kendrick said, relief flooding his face.


    ¡°Honey,¡± he called to his wife, ¡°don¡¯t cry. Ryan will be fine. You heard what Dr. Parker said.¡±Mrs. Rose nodded, still trembling. ¡°I¡¯m just scared, Honey. Ryan never listens.


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick sighed. ¡°He¡¯s a man, Rose, and men always do what they think is right.¡±


    Mrs. Rose stood up. ¡°I¡¯m going to Ryan¡¯s room,¡± she said and left.


    As Luca and Ivy waited for news, a man approached them.


    He was tall, with amanding presence and a skull tattoo on his right arm. ¡°I heard you were looking for Victor,¡± he said, his voice deep and husky.


    Ivy and Luca exchanged wary nces. ¡°Who are you?¡± Ivy asked.


    ¡°Name¡¯s Alex. I have some information that might help you,¡± he said, his eyes intense.


    Ivy studied him for a moment before nodding. ¡°Alright, Alex. What do you know?¡±Alex nced around to make sure no one was listening. ¡°Victor¡¯s not working alone. He¡¯s part of argerwork. But I can help you find him.¡±Luca crossed his arms. ¡°And why would you help us?¡±Alex smirked.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just say I have my reasons. And I don¡¯t like Victor.¡±Ivy felt a glimmer of hope. ¡°Okay, Alex. We¡¯ll work together. But no double-crossing. We need to find Victor and get Ryan out of this mess.¡±Alex nodded.


    ¡°Agreed. I¡¯ll be in touch.¡±


    As Alex walked away, Ivy turned to Luca. ¡°Do you think we can trust him?¡±Luca sighed. ¡°I don¡¯t know. But we don¡¯t have many options right now.¡±


    Just then, a doctor approached them. ¡°Mr. Kendrick¡¯s surgery was sessful, but he¡¯s in critical condition. It¡¯s going to be a tough recovery.¡±Ivy felt tears welling up in her eyes. ¡°Can we see him?¡±The doctor nodded. ¡°Briefly. He¡¯s still unconscious.¡±Ivy and Luca followed the doctor to Ryan¡¯s room.


    Seeing him lying there, hooked up to machines, making Ivy¡¯s heartache. She took his hand, squeezing it gently.¡±We¡¯re going to get you out of this, Ryan. I promise,¡± she whispered.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    As she stood by his side, her phone buzzed with a message. It was from an unknown number. She opened it, her eyes widening as she read the words:


    ¡°You think you can stop me? Think again. ¡°Ivy¡¯s blood ran cold. She knew this was far from over. But she was more determined than ever to bring down whoever was involved and save her family.


    Mr. Kendrick turned to Dr. Parker. ¡°Are there anyplications I should know of?¡±


    Dr. Parker shook his head. ¡°No, not at all. He just needs to recover now.¡±


    As they left the office, Mr. Kendrick spoke. ¡°Your hospital needs more equipment and renovations, don¡¯t you think, Parker?¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m working towards that,¡± Dr. Parker replied.¡±That¡¯s good. I¡¯m going to send you a cheque to cover all the expenses,¡± Mr. Kendrick said.


    ¡°No, friend. You have done more than enough. Trust me, I can handle it,¡± Dr. Parker protested.¡±You can¡¯t say no to your best friend, can you?¡± Mr. Kendrick asked.


    Dr. Parker sighed in surrender. ¡°Alright, if you insist.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I insist. You have been a good friend to me and my family,¡± Mr. Kendrick said, patting Dr. Parker on the back.


    Mrs. Rose excused herself and got into her car.


    She dialed a number, locking the doors and rolling up the windows.


    ¡°Hello, are you okay?¡± she hissed into the phone.¡±Are you mad? Was that the n? Why did you shoot my son? You didn¡¯t? Then who did? Really? We both agreed. Don¡¯t fuck with me! I¡¯ve kept my part, trying to get them together. Don¡¯t drag my family into this. I won¡¯t warn you again,¡± she said before hanging up.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± she screamed, flinging her phone and cing her head on the steering wheel in frustration. Suddenly, there was a knock on her car window.


    ¡°Fuck,¡± she muttered, quicklyposing herself. She rolled down the window to see Dr. Parker and her husband standing there.¡± Rose, are you okay?¡± he asked, concern etched on his face.


    She forced a smile. ¡°Yes, just a bit overwhelmed. How¡¯s Ryan?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s stable. You can go see him now,¡± Dr. Parker said, his eyes searching hers.¡±Thank you,¡± she whispered, stepping out of the car.

 Chapter 63

    Inside the hospital, Ivy sat by Ryan¡¯s bedside, holding his hand.


    Mrs. Rose entered the room, her face a mask of concern.


    ¡°How is he?¡± she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°The doctors say he¡¯ll recover. But Mom, who would do this? Why?¡± Ivy asked, tears streaming down her face.


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°I don¡¯t know, but I will find out.


    ¡°Suddenly, the door burst open, and Be stormed in, her face twisted with anger.¡±What the hell happened?¡± she demanded, looking at Ryan¡¯s unconscious form.


    ¡°He was shot while looking for Iris,¡± Ivy exined, her voice trembling.


    Be¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°This is all because of that whore. If he hadn¡¯t been obsessed with finding her, none of this would have happened.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose¡¯s temper red. ¡°Watch your mouth, Be. Ryan is fighting for his life because of this, and you dare to me him?¡±


    Be scoffed. ¡°He needs to forget about Iris and focus on what¡¯s important. Like our baby.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes zed with fury. ¡°Get out, Be. Now.¡±Be opened her mouth to argue but thought better of it. She stormed out of the room, mming the door behind her.


    As the hours passed, Ryan began to stir.


    Ivy held her breath, watching as his eyes fluttered open.


    ¡°Ryan? Can you hear me?¡± she asked, her voice trembling.


    Ryan groaned, his hand moving to his side. ¡°Ivy? What¡­ what happened?¡±


    ¡°You were shot. But you¡¯re going to be okay,¡± Ivy said, tears of relief streaming down her face.


    Ryan¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°Victor¡­ he did this.¡±Ivy nodded. ¡°We know. But we don¡¯t have enough evidence to take him down.¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw clenched.


    ¡°We need to find Iris. She¡¯s the key to all of this.¡±Just then, Mrs. Rose entered the room, her face set with determination. ¡°We¡¯ll find her, Ryan. I promise you.¡±Ryan looked at his mother, a flicker of hope in his eyes before he drifted off to sleep again. ¡°We have to. Before it¡¯s toote.


    As the night wore on, the hospital quieted. Mrs. Rose sat by Ryan¡¯s bedside, her mind racing.


    She needed to keep her family together, no matter the cost. Outside the hospital, a shadowy figure watched from a distance, a sinister smile ying on his lips.


    He dialed a number, his voice low and menacing.¡±It¡¯s done. Ryan¡¯s been warned. Now, we wait.¡±The figure hung up, disappearing into the night. Little did the Kendricks know, their battle had only just begun, and the secrets that would be unveiled would change their lives forever.


    Ryan woke up in the hospital bed, his body aching from the bullet wound.


    He nced around, trying to get his bearings. The room was quiet except for the steady beeping of the heart monitor


    . Luca sat in a chair by his bedside, his eyes filled with concern. ¡°Hey, man. How are you feeling?¡±Ryan winced as he shifted slightly. ¡°I¡¯ve been better. What happened?¡±


    ¡°We were ambushed. That guy, Victor, had it all nned out. You took a bullet, but the doctors said you¡¯ll recover,¡± Luca exined.


    Ryan sighed, his mind racing. ¡°Ivy. Is she okay?¡±N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    ¡°She¡¯s fine. She was here earlier but went home to rest. She¡¯s been worried sick about you,¡± Luca replied. Ryan closed his eyes, the weight of his mistakes pressing down on him.


    ¡°This is all my fault. I should have been more careful.¡±Luca shook his head. ¡°Don¡¯t me yourself. Victor is a dangerous man. We just need to find a way to stop him.


    Later that day, Ivy returned to the hospital, her expression determined.


    ¡°Ryan, we need to talk.¡±Ryan looked at her, his eyes filled with regret. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ivy. I should have protected you and Iris.¡±Ivy shook her head. ¡°This isn¡¯t the time for apologies. We need to focus on finding Victor and getting Iris back.¡±


    Ryan nodded. ¡°I know. But how? He¡¯s always one step ahead.¡±


    ¡°I have an idea,¡± Ivy said, ncing at Luca.


    ¡°Alex, the guy we met, he might have some connections. We need to reach out to him.¡±Luca frowned.


    ¡°Can we trust him?¡±Ivy sighed. ¡°We don¡¯t have a choice. He seems to know a lot about Victor. It¡¯s worth a shot.¡±


    Ryan took a deep breath. ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s do it. But we need to be careful. One wrong move, and it could all fall apart.¡±


    A few weekster, Ryan was discharged from the hospital. He still felt weak, but his determination to find Iris kept him going.


    Back at the house, they gathered in the living room to discuss their next move.¡±Alex agreed to meet us tonight,¡± Ivy said, her voice steady. ¡°He says he has information that could lead us to Victor.¡±


    Ryan nodded, ncing at Luca. ¡°We need to be prepared. This could be our only chance.¡±As they finalized their n, the doorbell rang.


    Ivy opened the door to find Be standing there, her expression smug.¡±What do you want?¡± Ivy asked, her voice cold.


    Be pushed past her, heading straight for Ryan. ¡°I have something you need to sign,¡± she said, pulling out a stack of papers.


    Ryan frowned. ¡°What is this?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a contract,¡± Be replied, her eyes glinting with malice. ¡°Your mother insisted. You marry me, or I take everything.¡±


    ¡°What¡±? Ivy gasped in shock.


    Ryan¡¯s heart sank. He knew his mother was pushing for this, but he didn¡¯t expect Be to y her hand so soon. ¡°I can¡¯t marry you, Be. My wife is still missing.


    ¡°Be¡¯s smile turned icy. ¡°If you don¡¯t sign these papers, I¡¯ll make sure you lose everything. Yourpany, your money, everything.¡±


    Ryan felt a surge of anger. ¡°You¡¯re using my child to manipte me?¡±


    ¡°Think of it as securing your future,¡± Be said, her tone dripping with sarcasm


    . Luca stepped forward. ¡°This isn¡¯t the time for this, Be. Ryan¡¯s dealing with enough already.¡±


    Be red at him. ¡°Stay out of this, Luca. This is between Ryan and me.¡±


    Ivy crossed her arms, her eyes narrowing. ¡°You really think this is going to work? Forcing him into a marriage while his wife is missing? You¡¯re despicable.¡±


    Be shrugged. ¡°Desperate times call for desperate measures. Sign the papers, Ryan, or lose everything.¡±


    Ryan looked at the papers, his mind racing. He knew he couldn¡¯t give in to Be¡¯s demands, but he needed to buy time. ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll sign them. But under one condition.¡±Be raised an eyebrow. ¡°And what¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°I want a month. Give me a month to find Iris. If I can¡¯t, I¡¯ll marry you,¡± Ryan said, his voice steady. Be considered this for a moment before nodding. ¡°Fine. One month. But if you fail, you¡¯re mine.¡±


    Months had passed since the day Iris and Jessica were abducted, and the silence from their captors weighed heavily on everyone.


    Ryan had lost weight, his once vibrant eyes now dull and sunken from sleepless nights.


    He often slept in Iris¡¯s room, clinging to her clothes, her scent the onlyfort in his increasingly desperate world.


    His dreams were haunted by visions of her, and the nightmares of her absence tore at his soul


    . Ryan had taken a leave of absence from work, leaving Luca to handle thepany. The once proud andmanding figure was now a shadow of his former self, his pain palpable to anyone who saw him.


    Be, however, was surprised by his torment. To her, it was just a sign that her ns were unfolding perfectly.


    One morning, Be entered Iris¡¯s room where Ryan had been sleeping. She noticed the sound of the shower running and quickly picked up his phone.


    She typed a message, watched it get delivered, and then deleted it before tiptoeing out.


    She was almost at the door when Ryan¡¯s voice boomed from behind her


    .¡±And what are you doing here?¡±Be froze, her mind racing toe up with a usible lie.


    She turned slowly, her eyes falling on Ryan¡¯s body d only in a white bath towel, his chiseled pectoral muscles, defined six-pack abs, and sculpted waistline on full disy. Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°I asked you a question.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re done bathing,¡± she said, forcing a smile.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t see you all day yesterday, so I decided to check on you. I heard the water running, so I knew you were bathing and decided to check backter.¡±


    ¡°Well, I just wanted to make sure you were okay,¡± she replied, trying to sound nonchnt. ¡°I¡¯ll take my leave now.¡±


    Ryan watched her go, suspicion gnawing at him.


    As he dried off, he opened Iris¡¯s wardrobe, his eyesnding on a red lingerie set she had worn for him once. His thoughts drifted back to the first time he had set eyes on Iris.

 Chapter 64

    shback to Ryan¡¯s 30th Birthday*****************


    ¡°It¡¯s going to be your 30th birthday soon, son. When are you going to get married? I wasn¡¯t even up to your age when I got married,¡± Mr. Kendrick had said to Ryan, his tone firm.


    ¡°Dad, I¡¯m not ready to get married. I need to find true love, if that even exists,¡± Ryan had muttered.


    ¡°When you keep going from onedy to another, how do you intend to find true love? Be is there, she¡¯s a perfect match for you. You can¡¯t keep going like this,¡± Mr. Kendrick insisted.


    ¡°You are a man, not a boy. Act like one. I will not transfer the empire to you if you don¡¯t get married,¡± Mr. Kendrick had blurted out.


    ¡°Dad! No, you can¡¯t do that,¡± Ryan had protested.¡±I can, and that is final,¡± Mr. Kendrick had said, leaving the study room.


    Fuming, Ryan had left the mansion. His mother, Mrs. Rose, had tried to get his attention about his birthday preparations, Ryane see the decorations i choose for your birthday¡±. but he ignored her and stormed out, heading to his favorite club to escape the pressure.


    Living Mrs Rose and the event nner seated beside her in surprise.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    The club, known for its prestige and high-ss patrons, was packed that night.


    Ryan, a regr, was soon served his favorite vodka. As he sipped his drink, the weight of his father¡¯s ultimatum bore down on him.


    But then, something caught his attention. The crowd was cheering louder than usual.


    A new stripper was on stage, and she was mesmerizing.


    She possessed a timeless beauty, a curvy figure, alluring gray eyes, long cream coffee blond hair, and stood about 5¡¯4¡å.


    Ryan was captivated by her, his problems momentarily forgotten as he watched her move to the rhythm of the music.


    She was different from the others, and he couldn¡¯t take his eyes off her.


    After her performance, the image of her stayed with him. Eventer, as he brought a woman home to distract himself, it was the stripper¡¯s face that kept shing in his mind.


    Ryan woke up the next morning to find that the woman he had brought home was already gone.


    This was a routine urrence for him, and it didn¡¯t faze him in the slightest.


    He rolled out of bed and headed straight for a ss of water, a habit he never skipped before making his way to the bathroom to freshen up.


    As he showered, thoughts of the mysterious stripper from the club filled his head. After dressing and eating a quick breakfast prepared by Sarah, Ryan headed to his car.


    His chauffeur drove him to the office in the usual silence. When they arrived, Luca, his best friend and assistant, greeted him and walked with him to his office.


    ¡°Hey man, how¡¯s the birthday boy preparing for his party?¡± Luca asked, his tone light.


    ¡°What¡¯s there to celebrate when Dad won¡¯t hand over the empire to me?¡± Ryan replied, frustration evident in his voice


    .¡±I¡¯m sure they just want you married. That¡¯s how it is in your family. Your dad got married before he turned 30 and the empire was handed over to him. We all know that you¡¯re nowhere close to getting married, even if you turn 40,¡± Luca said, chuckling.


    Ryan shot him a quick re. ¡°You¡¯re right, man. I can¡¯t afford to take on the responsibility of being a husband. That¡¯s too much work sticking to one woman when I can have so many. Why cage me?¡±


    ¡°Come on, man, you can¡¯t keep doing this. You have a lot of responsibilities, and your father just wants what¡¯s best for you. Marriage isn¡¯t that bad, you know,¡± Luca said


    .¡±Really? Then why aren¡¯t you married?¡± Ryan asked, giving him a side-eye.


    ¡°I¡¯m still searching, man. Soon, I will,¡± Luca replied.


    ¡°Soon? When you turn 70?¡± Ryan scoffed. ¡°I just don¡¯t know what to do, man.¡±


    ¡°Well, since they want you to get married or bring your girlfriend to your birthday party, you could just take Be,¡± Luca suggested.


    ¡°Never. You know I can never date Be, not to mention marry her. It¡¯s not possible,¡± Ryan said.¡±But why? She¡¯s into you, and obviously, your parents want her for you,¡± Luca said. ¡°Or you could just do a contract marriage with her. Once the empire is handed over to you, you can get divorced.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s face lit up as realization hit him. He walked over to Luca and hugged him, kissing his head.


    ¡°Cut it out, man,¡± Luca said, pushing him away.¡±You¡¯re a genius! This is a great idea!¡± Ryan eximed, jumping around his office.


    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re okay?¡± Luca asked, looking concerned.¡±Yes, I¡¯m great!¡± Ryan replied.¡±Alright, I have some work to catch up on. I¡¯ll see youter,¡± Luca said, shaking his head and leaving.


    All day, Ryan was full of energy, carrying out his activities with a newfound enthusiasm. When the workday ended, he headed home, still smiling.


    The next day, Ryan was woken up by his mother, Mrs. Rose, and his sister, Ivy, who came to surprise him.¡±Happy birthday, Ryan!¡± they chorused, making him jerk awake.


    ¡°Mum, Ivy,¡± he said, rubbing his eyes. They sang for him and presented their gifts.¡±Happy birthday, son,¡± Mrs. Rose said, hugging him and kissing his head.


    Ivy jumped on his bed, hugging him tightly. ¡°Happy birthday, little boy.¡±Ryan gave her a side-eye, and they all burst intoughter.¡±Today is going to be a busy day for you, honey. Make sure you get prepared on time. The party starts at 7 PM,¡± Mrs. Rose said.


    ¡°Alright, Mum,¡± Ryan replied, still excited-not because of his birthday, but because of his ns.


    He drove to his father¡¯s mansion to discuss his idea.¡±Ryan, are you here to help with the arrangements?¡± Mrs. Rose asked


    .¡±No, Mum, I want to see Dad,¡± Ryan replied.¡±Oh, I thought you wanted to give us a hand. Anyway, your dad is in his study room,¡± Mrs. Rose said.


    Ryan smiles, kisses his mother, and goes to find his dad. He reached the door, took a deep breath, and knocked lightly


    .¡±Come in,¡± Mr. Kendrick¡¯s voice called from inside.¡±Hi, Dad,¡± Ryan said, entering.¡±Son, happy birthday. Have a seat,¡± Mr. Kendrick said.


    ¡°Thanks, Dad. I want to discuss something with you,¡± Ryan said, his heart pounding.


    Mr. Kendrick nodded, signaling him to continue.¡±Well, Dad, I¡¯ve found someone I would love to marry,¡± Ryan said, watching his father¡¯s face light up.


    .¡±That¡¯s good news! Bring her and show her tonight. I¡¯m going to start arranging for the empire transfer,¡± Mr. Kendrick said.


    Ryan¡¯s heart leaped with joy. ¡°Thanks, Dad,¡± he said, leaving the study room.


    The night of his birthday party finally arrived. Ryan was dressed handsomely in a fur tuxedo, his hair neatly styled. He looked like a god, and women, both young and old, were drooling over him.


    Be, representing the fashion icon she was, kept throwing herself around him, being clingy, and telling everyone they were dating.


    Friends, family, workers, and investors came to grace the party. Mr. Kendrick was supposed to announce Ryan as the CEO of Kendrick Empire, and Ryan eagerly awaited the big moment.


    As the night went on and the party neared its end, murmurs of anticipation filled the room. It was a Kendrick Empire tradition to announce the new CEO when the heir turned 30.


    Mr. Kendrick stepped up to give the final speech. Ryan¡¯s heart raced, but to his shock, his father only thanked everyone foring and appreciated their presence. The party ended without the anticipated announcement.


    Furious, Ryan stormed out, ignoring his mother¡¯s calls after him. Be ran after him but couldn¡¯t catch up as he got into his car and ordered his driver to head to the club in anger.


    He sat in his usual spot, looking around for the stripper, but she was nowhere to be found.


    Ryan¡¯s patience was wearing thin as he waited at the club for Iris. He asked one of his guards to call the club manager, Mama Peepee, who appeared almost immediately.


    She dared not keep the youngest billionaire waiting.¡±Hello,¡± she greeted with a nervous smile.¡±Who¡¯s the new stripper you employed and why isn¡¯t she here today?¡± Ryan asked, sipping from his ss.


    ¡°She will be here soon. Sheeste because of her mother¡¯s health,¡± Mama Peepee exined.¡±Hmm, I see. How long has she been working here?¡± Ryan inquired.


    ¡°For a week now,¡± Mama Peepee replied.¡±Alright.¡±


    ¡°Do you want me to prepare her for you?¡± Mama Peepee asked, eager to please.¡±There will be no need for that. You may leave,¡± Ryan said, dismissing her with a wave.


    Mama Peepee bowed and quickly left.


    A few minutester, Ryan grew tired of waiting and decided to go home. Just as he was about to leave, the crowd erupted in cheers, signaling Iris¡¯s arrival.

 Chapter 65

    He rxed back into his seat, his gaze fixed on her as she began her performance.


    She danced with an enticing blend of sexiness and grace, her movements perfectly in sync with the rhythm of the music.


    When Iris finished her set, she noticed his intense gaze. Descending from the stage.


    Ryan called her over, his eyes never leaving hers. She acted naive and vulnerable, which only made him more determined. ¡°I have a proposition for you,¡± Ryan said, his gaze intense, Marry me,¡± Ryan said, his voice steady andmanding.


    Iris¡¯s eyes widened in shock, her expression helpless as if her eyes were going to pop out. Ryan almostughed at her reaction but maintained hisposure.


    At first, she declined, but he threatened her with her mother¡¯s condition, leaving her no choice but to agree.


    Luca, I need you to find out everything about the new stripper at the club,¡± Ryan said as soon as he arrived at the office.


    ¡°The one you couldn¡¯t stop thinking about? Sure, I¡¯ll see what I can do,¡± Luca replied, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°Yes, and do it fast. I don¡¯t have time to waste,¡± Ryan snapped.


    Later that day, Luca returned with information. ¡°Her name is Iris Rayden. She¡¯s new in town, and it seems she¡¯s here to make quick money. But there¡¯s something off, she¡¯s not your typical stripper.¡±


    ¡°Off how?¡± Ryan asked, his interest piqued.¡±She¡¯s well-educated and from a decent background. It¡¯s almost like she¡¯s hiding from something,¡± Luca exined.


    End of shback******************


    Back in the present, Ryan¡¯s obsession with Iris had only grown. He spent most nights in her room, tormented by memories and the agony of not knowing where she was or if she was safe.


    His family watched helplessly as he deteriorated, unable to reach him through his grief.


    As Ryan was preparing to leave Iris¡¯s room, he noticed his phone blinking with a new message.


    He opened it, his heart pounding.¡±Meet me at the old warehouse by the docks. Tonight. Alone.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s heart raced as he read the message. Could this be a lead on Iris? He had to find out.


    That night, he arrived at the warehouse, the eerie silence amplifying his anxiety. He stepped inside his senses on high alert.


    Suddenly, a voice echoed through the darkness.¡±Ryan Kendrick, you¡¯re a hard man to track down.


    ¡°Ryan spun around, his eyes searching the shadows. ¡°Who are you? What do you know about Iris?¡±A figure stepped into the dim light, revealing a rugged man with piercing eyes.


    ¡°I know a lot about Iris. And about you.¡±


    ¡°Tell me where she is!¡± Ryan demanded, his desperation evident. The man smirked. ¡°All in good time. But first, we need to talk. There are things you don¡¯t know, secrets that go far deeper than you realizeN?velDrama.Org content rights.


    .¡±Ryan¡¯s heart pounded in his chest. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±The man stepped closer, his expression serious. ¡°Your father, Mr. Kendrick, has been hiding things from you.


    About Iris, about your family. If you want to find her, you¡¯ll need to uncover the truth. But be warned, the truth might destroy everything you know.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s mind reeled as the man¡¯s words sank in. What secrets had his father been hiding? And how were they connected to Iris? Before he could ask more, the man disappeared into the shadows, leaving Ryan with more questions than answers.


    Ryan returned home, his mind racing with the cryptic encounter. As he stepped into Iris¡¯s room, he noticed a small envelope on the bed. He picked it up, his hands shaking as he opened it.


    Inside was a photograph of Iris, looking terrified, with a message scrawled on the back: ¡°Time is running out. Find the truth before it¡¯s toote.¡±Ryan¡¯s heart pounded as he realized the urgency of the situation.


    He had to find Iris, but first, he needed to uncover the secrets his father had been hiding. His world was unraveling, and the answers he sought could either save Iris or destroy his family.


    Determined, Ryan vowed to do whatever it took to find her. As he stared at the photograph, he knew that the path ahead would be dangerous, but he couldn¡¯t turn back now


    The next day, Ryan got dressed and headed to the office. He had some investorsing over, and he needed to be prepared.


    His chauffeur drove him to the office, and he went straight to his office. On his way, he saw Luca.


    ¡°Hey man, are the investors here already?¡± Ryan asked.¡±They are on their way, hopefully,¡± Luca replied.¡±Alright, let¡¯s get things ready.¡±An hourter, the investors arrived.


    They went into the waiting room while Ryan and Luca prepared for the meeting. In the middle of their discussion, a notification popped up on Ryan¡¯s phone, but he ignored it.


    Almost immediately, another notification popped up, and he picked up his phone, excusing himself.


    It was a message from Be: ¡°Ryan, please help me. I don¡¯t know what is wrong with the baby.¡±Ryan replied to her message: ¡°I¡¯ll be back shortly. Please hold on.¡±Ryan rushed into the meeting room and asked Luca to finish up as an emergency hade up.¡±What about the documents you need to sign?¡± Luca asked


    Ryan pulled out a pen from his suit and hastily signed everywhere needed without reading through the documents.


    After signing, he dashed out of thepany and into his car, zooming off. The investors left after Luca saw them off.


    Luca arranged the files as he kept them in Ryan¡¯s office, forgetting to go through them.


    Ryan, worried and mentally stressed about everything happening, was rushing home to meet with Be to find out what had happened to the baby.


    His chauffeur didn¡¯t drive him home; he was not concentrating on the road when he collided with another oing car.


    Ryan¡¯s car flipped in the air three times as itnded with great force on the ground.


    Ryan immediately lost consciousness, as blood was all over his head and face. His windscreen broke into pieces, and the car was upside down.


    Immediately the people around called an ambnce and alerted the police, which came almost immediately and rescued him from the car and took him into the ambnce, as they reached out to Ivy and Mrs Rose.

 Chapter 66

    Irisy on the cold floor of the dimly lit room, her body aching from the relentless abuse she had endured. Her once vibrant figure was now frail and emaciated, a shadow of the strong woman she had been. Her belly, round with the life growing inside her, seemed to be the only sign of vitality left in her. But even that was fading.


    For over three months, she had been locked away, held captive by faceless tormentors. She couldn¡¯t remember who she was or how she had ended up in this living nightmare. The days blended, a cycle of darkness, pain, and fleeting moments of terror. Her only interaction with the outside world was the daily visit from a stern man who brought her meager food rations and a nurse who was there to keep her alive barely.


    The door creaked open, and Iris flinched, her instincts honed by months of torment. The man entered, carrying a small tray of food. He ced it on the ground beside her, not sparing her a nce as he prepared to leave.


    ¡°Eat,¡± he ordered, his voice devoid of emotion.


    Iris didn¡¯t respond. Her hands and legs were tightly bound, leaving her unable to do anything but endure. The man didn¡¯t wait for a reply, turning to leave as the nurse, a severe-looking woman in her mid-thirties, entered the room. The nurse¡¯s eyes scanned Iris, her expression one of growing concern.


    ¡°She¡¯s losing strength,¡± the nurse reported, her voice trembling slightly. ¡°She needs medical attention, or she might not survive. We need to take her to a hospital.¡±


    The man¡¯s face remained impassive. ¡°That¡¯s why we¡¯re paying you. You¡¯re a nurse, so make sure she¡¯s okay,¡± he replied coldly, before walking out and locking the door behind him.


    The nurse turned back to Iris, her hardened exterior softening as she knelt beside her. ¡°You¡¯re really in bad shape,¡± she murmured, taking a cloth and wiping the sweat from Iris¡¯s forehead.


    Iris gagged suddenly, her stomach lurching as she vomited, the meager contents of her stomach spilling onto herself and sttering the nurse¡¯s uniform. Disgust twisted the nurse¡¯s face, and without warning, she pped Iris hard across the cheek.


    The force of the blow was too much for Iris¡¯s weakened body. Her vision darkened as she lost consciousness, copsing to the floor in a heap. Panic shed across the nurse¡¯s face as she realized what she had done.


    ¡°Oh no, no, no, wake up!¡± she whispered frantically, shaking Iris¡¯s limp body. After a tense moment, Iris¡¯s eyes fluttered open, tears streaming down her cheeks as she gasped for breath.


    The nurse let out a relieved sigh and began to clean Iris up, her hands trembling slightly. ¡°You poor thing,¡± she mumbled, her tone gentler now. ¡°You still don¡¯t remember anything? Not where you came from? Your parents? Husband? Siblings? What are their names?¡±


    Iris stared at the nurse, her expression nk, eyes clouded with confusion. The nurse shook her head, resigning herself to the futility of her questions. ¡°Forget it,¡± she muttered, ¡°there¡¯s no point. You¡¯re never going to remember anything.¡±


    After changing Iris into a fresh set of clothes, the nurse prepared to leave the room, gathering the dirty sheets and wiping the floor clean. Just as she reached the door, she heard Iris¡¯s voice, faint and filled with desperation.


    ¡°Mum¡­ Mum, is that you?¡± Iris¡¯s voice was barely audible, yet it was filled with an emotion that caused the nurse to freeze in her tracks.


    The nurse turned slowly, her eyes locking onto Iris¡¯s. ¡°What did you say? What¡¯s your mother¡¯s name?¡± she asked, her voice trembling with a mixture of hope and dread.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Iris¡¯s gaze was distant, unfocused. ¡°Mum¡­¡± she whispered again, her voice trailing off as the nurse stood there, waiting for more. But Iris said nothing else. The nurse¡¯s shoulders sagged as she realized Iris was still lost in the haze of her fragmented memories.


    With a heavy sigh, the nurse left the room, locking the door behind her. She had hoped that some part of Iris¡¯s memory was beginning to resurface, but it seemed the woman¡¯s mind was still as much a prison as the room she was locked in.


    shback************


    The memories of Iris¡¯s abduction were a blur of horror and confusion. She had been taken out of town to an abandoned house, where she had regained consciousness, only to find herself locked up and starved for days. The first thing she had done was scream for help, her voice raw with desperation.


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t kill me! Please, I need to go back to my mum she¡¯s sick, and she needs me. I¡¯m the only one she¡¯s got! Please, let me go!¡± Iris had pleaded, but the walls of her prison remained silent.


    Her cries had gone unanswered, and after hours of weeping and screaming, her voice had given out. She was left in a state of despair, her body aching from the strain, her hope fading with each passing moment.


    One morning, she had heard voices outside her room. She strained to listen, but the conversation was muffled, and she couldn¡¯t make out what was being said. But there was something familiar about one of the voices, something that tugged at the frayed edges of her memory.


    She had tried to cry out for help, but her mouth was gagged. She knew it would be useless anyway-the guards were too far away to hear her. But that small sliver of familiarity gave her a spark of hope, a reason to keep fighting.


    The next morning, when her captors brought her food and ungagged her, she had eaten hungrily, desperate for any strength she could muster. She noticed that the guards had be less cautious, assuming she was too weak to pose any threat. It was then that she began to formte a n.


    As soon as the guards had left, she had worked on untying her hands and legs, her fingers fumbling with the knots until she was free. She had scanned the room for any means of escape. The windows were sealed shut, and she knew it would take hours to break through them with her bare hands. The door, she knew, would be heavily guarded.


    But Iris was determined. She had found a small, rusted iron bar hidden behind the bed frame. Clutching it tightly, she had waited until she heard the guards outside her door. She had created a ruckus, knocking over furniture and making as much noise as possible.


    When the door finally opened, only one of the guards had entered, cautious but not prepared for what wasing. Iris had swung the iron bar with all her strength, striking the guard in the head. He had crumpled to the floor, blood pouring from the wound, and Iris had made a dash for the door.


    She had almost reached it when the other guards appeared, surrounding her. One of them had dangled a set of keys in front of her, taunting her with the promise of freedom.


    ¡°Looking for this?¡± he sneered.


    ¡°Please, just let me go,¡± Iris had begged, tears streaming down her face. ¡°I need to go back to my mother.¡±


    The man had grabbed her by the face, his grip bruising her delicate skin. ¡°Aw, you wanna go home to your mummy? Well, your mummy will never see you again,¡± he had mocked before pping her hard across the face.


    Iris had fallen to the ground, her vision swimming with pain as the guardsughed. They had hauled her up, each one taking turns pping her until she was barely conscious. Then, they dragged her back to the room and threw her onto the cold floor, her head striking the iron bar she had used to attack the guard.


    They had tied her up again, this time more securely, and left her there to bleed and cry. But then, Iris had felt something else- a warm, sticky wetness between her legs. She had looked down and seen blood seeping through her clothes, and panic had gripped her.


    ¡°No, no, no¡­ my baby¡­ somebody helps!


    Please, help me!¡± she screamed, her voice hoarse with terror.


    The guards had rushed in, their eyes widening at the sight of her bleeding. They had quickly called for help, but thest thing Iris remembered was the darkness closing in around her as she lost consciousness.


    Iris awoke to find herself in a strange room, her body aching and weak. She was lying on a bed, her legs tied to the bedposts, but only one of her hands was restrained. The room was clean and unfamiliar, the sterile smell of antiseptic in the air.


    Her mind was a fog of confusion as she tried to piece together what had happened. Where was she? Who had brought her here? She couldn¡¯t remember anything, not even her name.


    When the door opened, a man in a white coat entered, a stethoscope hanging around his neck. He was followed by one of the guards from before, who stood silently by the door.


    The man in the white coat approached her, checking her pulse and shining a light into her eyes. ¡°She¡¯s awake,¡± he said, his voice clinical and detached.


    The guard stepped forward, his face twisted with concern. ¡°Is she¡­ is she going to be okay?¡±


    The doctor nodded. ¡°She¡¯s stable for now, but she¡¯s lost a lot of blood. We¡¯ve managed to stop the bleeding, but she¡¯s severely malnourished, she¡¯s pregnant, and the worst of it all, she¡¯s having memory loss.

 Chapter 67

    The sound of the ambnce sirens echoed through the streets as Ryan was rushed to the hospital.


    Blood streamed down his face, and his consciousness faded in and out, the pain throbbing in his head like a relentless drum.


    As they wheeled him into the emergency room, the chaos of the crash still rang in his ears.


    Inside the hospital, nurses and doctors surrounded him, their voices a blur of urgency. ¡°We need to stabilize him!¡± one shouted, as they worked swiftly to assess his injuries.


    In another part of town, Mr. Kendrick was sitting in his study when the phone rang.


    His hand trembled as he answered, the voice on the other end delivering the devastating news. ¡°Your son¡­ there¡¯s been an ident. He¡¯s in critical condition.¡±The words hit Mr. Kendrick like a sledgehammer.


    His vision blurred, and before he could fully grasp the reality, his knees buckled beneath him. The phone slipped from his grasp, and his body copsed onto the floor, unconscious.


    Mrs. Rose heard the thud from the hallway and rushed to the study. When she saw her husband lying motionless, panic surged through her. ¡°Ken! Ken!¡± she screamed, dropping to her knees beside him, shaking him desperately.


    But he didn¡¯t respond.¡±Somebody help!¡± Mrs. Rose¡¯s voice cracked as she called for the servants.


    Within moments, the house was in disarray, servants running to and fro, trying to assist.


    The paramedics were called, and soon Mr. Kendrick was on his way to the hospital as well, his condition unknown.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    As Mrs. Rose followed the ambnce in her car, her mind raced with fear. Her husband was unconscious; her son was critically injured. Everything she had carefully built was crumbling around her. She couldn¡¯t lose them both. Not like this. Tears streamed down her face as she gripped the steering wheel, her knuckles white from the pressure.


    At the hospital, Dr. Parker was already in the emergency room when Ryan was brought in. His heart dropped at the sight of the young man, his face barely recognizable under the blood and bruises. ¡°Get him into surgery, now!¡± Dr. Parker barked at the team.


    They worked quickly, but the severity of Ryan¡¯s injuries was undeniable. Hours passed, and Mrs. Rose finally arrived at the hospital. She was greeted by chaos-nurses running, doctors conferring, the sterile smell of antiseptic filling the air.


    Her heart pounded in her chest as she made her way to the emergency room, where she found Dr. Parker waiting.¡±Parker, what¡¯s happening? How is he?¡± she demanded, her voice shaking.


    Dr. Parker hesitated, his face grim. ¡°Rose, it¡¯s bad. Ryan¡¯s injuries are severe-multiple fractures, internal bleeding, and head trauma. We¡¯re doing everything we can, but¡­ we have to be prepared for the worst.¡±


    Mrs. Rose staggered backward, the weight of his words nearly knocking her off her feet. ¡°No¡­ no, he can¡¯t¡­ He¡¯s my baby,¡± she whispered, tears streaming down her cheeks.


    ¡°He¡¯s strong, Rose. But the next few hours are critical. We need to pray for a miracle,¡± Dr. Parker said, cing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.


    Mrs. Rose nodded numbly, her mind barely able to process what was happening. She turned and walked toward the waiting area, each step feeling like a lifetime.


    As she sat down, her mind drifted to the secrets she had kept, the lies she had told. Would this be her punishment? Losing everything she had tried so hard to protect? Back in the operating room, the surgeons worked tirelessly, but Ryan¡¯s condition remained dire.


    His pulse was weak, his body struggling to hold on. Hours dragged on, the tension in the air thick and suffocating.


    Meanwhile, in a nearby room, Mr. Kendricky unconscious, his condition stable but far from assured. The news of Ryan¡¯s ident had triggered a massive stroke, and now both father and sony on the brink of life and death.


    Mrs. Rose was caught in a web of despair. The weight of the situation threatened to crush her. Every minute felt like an eternity, and all she could do was wait, helpless and terrified.


    Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Dr. Parker emerged from the operating room. His face was drawn, exhaustion etched into his features. Mrs. Rose jumped to her feet, hope and fear warring in her eyes.¡±Parker, tell me. Is he¡­ is he going to be okay?¡± she pleaded.


    Dr. Parker sighed, running a hand through his hair. ¡°The surgery was sessful, but Ryan¡¯s not out of the woods yet. He¡¯s in aa, Rose. We¡¯ve done everything we can, but now it¡¯s up to him. We¡¯ll monitor him closely, but it¡¯s a waiting game.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s legs gave out, and she copsed into the nearest chair, her hands covering her face. Aa¡­ the word echoed in her mind, a nightmare she couldn¡¯t wake up from. What had she done to deserve this? All the secrets, all the lies¡­ had they led to this?


    Dr. Parker knelt beside her, his voice gentle. ¡°Rose, he¡¯s a fighter. Don¡¯t give up on him. He needs you to be strong now.¡±She nodded, but the strength she had always prided herself on was slipping away.


    She was losing everything, and she had no idea how to stop it. As the night wore on, Mrs. Rose was allowed to see Ryan. She stood by his bedside, her hand clutching his, her tears falling onto his still form.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Ryan. I should have protected you. I should have told you the truth¡­¡± Her voice broke as she whispered her confession, her guilt consuming her.


    But Ryany there, unresponsive, his chest rising and falling with the help of the machines. The beeping of the heart monitor was the only sign of life in the room, and it was the only sound that kept Mrs. Rose grounded in reality.


    Suddenly, a nurse appeared at the door. ¡°Mrs. Kendrick, your husband¡­ he¡¯s regained consciousness.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s head snapped up, a mix of relief and dread washing over her. She had to see Ken, had to tell him what had happened, but the thought of leaving Ryan¡¯s side was unbearable.¡±I¡¯ll be right there,¡± she said, squeezing Ryan¡¯s hand onest time before following the nurse to Ken¡¯s room.


    When she entered, she found Mr. Kendrick awake but weak, his eyes barely open. ¡°Ken¡­¡± she whispered, rushing to his side. He looked at her, his expression confused and pained. ¡°Rose¡­ what¡­ what happened?¡± His voice was raspy, every word a struggle.


    ¡°It¡¯s Ryan,¡± she choked out. ¡°He¡­ he had an ident. He¡¯s in aa, Ken. Our son¡­¡± Her words dissolved into sobs as she fell onto the bed beside him.


    Mr. Kendrick¡¯s eyes widened in shock, and for a moment, he seemed to struggle to breathe. But then, a strange calm settled over him. He reached out a trembling hand and touched her face.


    But there was no time left for hesitation. The truth had toe out, no matter the cost.


    Back in the waiting area, Ivy paced nervously. She had just arrived, and the sight of her parents in such vulnerable states was terrifying.


    She hadn¡¯t seen Ryan yet, and the thought of her brother lying in a hospital bed, fighting for his life, made her stomach churn.


    Suddenly, she felt her phone buzz in her pocket. She pulled it out, expecting another message from Luca about the investors, but instead, it was a text from an unknown number.


    Ivy, the truth is closer than you think. Meet me at the hospital chapel. Now. Her heart skipped a beat as she read the message. What truth? Who could be sending this? Curiosity and fear mingled as she hesitated for a moment, then made her way to the chapel.


    When she arrived, she found the chapel dimly lit, with a single figure sitting in one of the pews. As she approached, the figure turned, revealing the same rugged man who had confronted Ryan at the warehouse.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Ivy gasped, her heart racing. The man nodded, his expression grave. ¡°It¡¯s time you knew everything, Ivy. The truth about your family, about Ryan, about Iris¡­ it¡¯s all connected.¡±Ivy¡¯s mind whirled with questions, but before she could speak, the man held up a hand. ¡°But be warned-what you¡¯re about to learn may change everything.¡±She swallowed hard, her nerves on edge.


    ¡°Tell me,¡± she said, her voice steady despite the fear gnawing at her insides. The man leaned closer, his voice a whisper in the dim light. ¡°It all starts with your father¡­ and the secrets he¡¯s been hiding for years.¡±Ivy¡¯s breath caught in her throat.


    The chapel¡¯s silence seemed to echo with the weight of his words, each revtion more shocking than thest.


    And as the truth came to light, Ivy realized that nothing would ever be the same again. But one question still lingered in her mind, burning with urgency: Where was Iris, and could they save her before it was toote?

 Chapter 68

    The news of Iris¡¯s pregnancy and memory loss spread quickly among the men assigned to guard her.


    They knew their boss wouldn¡¯t be pleased, and fear rippled through the group as they prepared to deliver the news.


    In the dimly lit warehouse, one of the men, a burly figure with a scar across his cheek, dialed a number on his burner phone. His hands trembled slightly as he waited for the call to connect. When the line clicked open, he cleared his throat nervously.


    .¡±Boss, we¡¯ve got a situation,¡± he began, his voice shaky. ¡°The girl, Iris¡­ she¡¯s pregnant. And she¡¯s lost her memory. The doc confirmed it.¡±


    There was a long pause on the other end of the line. The silence was deafening, the kind that made a man¡¯s skin crawl. When the voice finally came through, it was cold and measured.


    ¡°Pregnant, you say? And her memory?¡± The boss¡¯s voice held a dangerous edge, the kind that sent shivers down the spines of even the toughest men.¡±Yeah¡­ she doesn¡¯t remember anything. Not even her name,¡± the man continued, sweat beginning to bead on his forehead. ¡°What should we do?¡±


    The boss took a deep breath, considering the implications. ¡°Keep her under wraps for now. No one is to touch her, you hear me? If anything happens to that her or her child you¡¯ll all pay dearly.¡±


    The man nodded, even though the boss couldn¡¯t see him. ¡°Understood. We¡¯ll keep her safe.


    ¡± Good. I¡¯ll deal with the restter,¡± the boss replied before the line went dead.


    The man exhaled, relief flooding through him. But he knew this was just the beginning of their problems.


    Meanwhile, at the hospital, Bey in her bed, tears streaming down her face. The physical pain from the miscarriage was nothingpared to the emotional devastation she felt.


    She had called Ryan, but he hadn¡¯te. Her heart ached, not just for the child she had lost, but for the cold realization that Ryan hadn¡¯t cared enough to be there.


    As she stared at the ceiling, her phone buzzed on the nightstand. Be reached for it, hoping for a message from Ryan, something to show that he cared.


    But when she saw Mrs. Rose¡¯s name on the screen, a wave of nausea hit her.


    She answered the call, her voice trembling. ¡°Mrs. Rose¡­ I lost the baby. I called Ryan, but he never showed up.¡±There was a pause on the other end, and then Mrs. Rose¡¯s voice came through,ced with distress.


    ¡°Be¡­ Ryan was in an ident.¡±Be¡¯s world tilted. ¡°What? When? How bad is it?¡±


    ¡°Right after you called him,¡± Mrs. Rose exined, her voice breaking. ¡°He was rushing home when he¡­ he collided with another car. He¡¯s in the hospital now, in critical condition.¡±


    ¡°No, no, this can¡¯t be happening,¡± Be whispered, her hands trembling as she gripped the phone. ¡°Where is he? Which hospital?¡±Mrs. Rose told her, and without another word, Be hung up and scrambled out of bed, ignoring the pain that shot through her abdomen.


    She needed to see Ryan, to be with him. She couldn¡¯t lose him too.


    At the hospital, Mrs. Rose was pacing the hallway outside the intensive care unit.


    Her usuallyposed demeanor was shattered, her face pale with worry. The doctors had given her little hope; Ryan¡¯s injuries were severe, and he was fighting for his life.


    As she waited, Dr. Parker emerged from the room, his expression grave. Mrs. Rose rushed to him, clutching his arm. ¡°Parker, how is he? Is he going to be alright?¡±


    Dr. Parker hesitated, his eyes filled with concern. ¡°Rose, it¡¯s bad. Ryan suffered significant trauma to his head and internal organs. We¡¯re doing everything we can, but¡­ you need to prepare yourself.¡±


    Mrs. Rose felt her legs go weak, and she clung to Dr. Parker for support. ¡°He¡¯s my only son, Parker. I can¡¯t lose him. Not now, not like this.¡±Dr. Parker gently guided her to a chair, his hand resting on her shoulder.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°We¡¯re going to do our best, Rose. But you need to be strong, for Ryan¡¯s sake.¡±Just then, Be burst into the hallway, her face pale and stricken with grief. She saw Mrs. Rose and hurried over, tears streaming down her face.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose, how is he? Is he¡­ is he going to make it?¡±Mrs. Rose looked up at Be, her tears welling up. ¡°I don¡¯t know, Be. The doctors are doing everything they can, but it doesn¡¯t look good.¡±


    Be felt the room spinning, her breathing in short, sharp gasps. She sank into a chair, her mind racing. How had everything gone so wrong? First the baby, now Ryan¡­ it was too much to bear.


    Dr. Parker knelt in front of Be, his voice gentle. ¡°Be, I need you to stay calm. Stress isn¡¯t good for you right now, especially after what you¡¯ve just been through.¡±Be nodded numbly, but the pain in her chest was overwhelming. She couldn¡¯t lose Ryan too. Not after everything they had been through.


    The Kendrick family was in shambles. With Mr. Kendrick in aa and Ryan fighting for his life, the weight of their secrets threatened to crush them all.


    Be sat beside Ryan¡¯s bed, her hand resting on his. His face was bruised and battered, and the machines around him beeped steadily, monitoring his fragile state.


    Be¡¯s heart ached as she looked at him, her mind shing back to all the times they had shared. She couldn¡¯t lose him. Not now, not ever.


    As she sat there, a nurse quietly entered the room, checking the monitors and adjusting the IV. Be watched her, desperate for any sign of improvement, but the nurse¡¯s expression remained neutral.


    ¡°Is there any change?¡± Be asked, her voice barely above a whisper.


    The nurse shook her head. ¡°He¡¯s stable, but still critical. The next 24 hours will be crucial.¡±Be nodded, her eyes never leaving Ryan¡¯s face.


    She had never felt so helpless in her life. All she could do was wait and hope that he would wake up.


    In another part of the hospital, Mrs. Rose sat in the waiting room, her hands trembling as she tried to process everything that had happened.


    Dr. Parker had insisted she take a moment to rest, but there was no rest for her now. Not with her son lying in a hospital bed, and her husband in aa.


    As she sat there, her phone buzzed with a call. She nced at the screen and saw an unknown number. Frowning, she answered it.¡±Hello?¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Rose Kendrick?¡± a voice on the other end asked.¡±Yes, this is she,¡± Mrs. Rose replied, her brow furrowing in confusion.¡±This is Detective Harris. I¡¯m calling about an ongoing investigation involving your family. I believe we have some information that might interest you


    .¡± Mrs. Rose¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°What kind of information?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t discuss it over the phone. I need you toe down to the station. There are some things you need to see.¡±Mrs. Rose hesitated, ncing toward the door that led to Ryan¡¯s room. ¡°I can¡¯t leave right now. My son is-¡± I understand, ma¡¯am, but this is urgent. It concerns your husband as well. Please,e as soon as you can,¡± the detective insisted.


    Mrs. Rose swallowed hard, fear tightening in her chest. ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll be there shortly.¡±As she hung up the phone, Mrs. Rose¡¯s mind raced. What could the police possibly have on her family? And why was it so urgent that shee in now, of all times? She knew she couldn¡¯t leave Ryan¡¯s side for long, but something in the detective¡¯s voice told her that this was important. Very important.


    She stood up, smoothing out her dress, and took a deep breath. ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon,¡± she whispered to herself before heading out the door.


    As Mrs. Rose arrived at the police station, Detective Harris greeted her with a somber expression. He led her to a small, private room where he closed the door behind them.¡±Thank you foring, Mrs. Kendrick. I know this is a difficult time for you,¡± he began, his tone professional yetpassionate.¡±Just tell me what this is about,¡± Mrs. Rose replied, her nerves fraying with every passing second. The detective sighed, pulling out a file from his desk. ¡°We¡¯ve been investigating some unusual financial activity linked to your husband¡¯s business ounts.


    At first, we thought it was just a case of embezzlement, but the deeper we dug, the more we realized it was something far more serious.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s heart pounded in her chest. ¡°What are you saying?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m saying that your husband has been involved in some very questionable dealings, Mrs. Kendrick. And those dealings have put your entire family at risk,¡± the detective exined.

 Chapter 69

    The dim glow of the bar¡¯s neon lights cast long shadows across the room, where three men sat huddled in a secluded booth.


    Their voices, low and conspiratorial, buzzed with excitement as they leaned in over their drinks. The clinking of their sses against the polished wooden table signaled the beginning of a conversation that would change the course of the Kendrick Empire forever.


    The man in the middle, a tall figure with slicked-back hair and a confident smirk, raised his ss higher than the others. ¡°To the fall of Mr. Kendrick and the rise of a new name!¡± His voice was filled with triumph, the kind of victory that had been long-awaited and hard-fought.


    ¡°To the Kendrick Empire,¡± the second man echoed, his voice dripping with satisfaction. He was shorter but stockier, his eyes gleaming with ambition.


    ¡°Which now belongs to us.¡±The third man, a lean and calcting figure, chuckled darkly as he joined the toast. ¡°And to the rebranding of this so-called empire.


    Soon, everyone will know who really pulls the strings.¡±They clinked their sses together, the sound ringing through the empty bar. It waste, long past midnight, and the bartender, who had been well-paid to keep his mouth shut, busied himself cleaning sses at the other end of the room.


    The tall man, who went by the name Victor Hale, took a long sip of his whiskey, savoring the moment. He had waited years for this-years of being underestimated, of ying second fiddle to Mr. Kendrick¡¯s supposedly invincible empire.


    But now, the tables had turned.¡±I can¡¯t believe it was this easy,¡± the stocky man, Samuel Grant, remarked, his grin widening.


    ¡°After all the hype, all the talk of Mr. Kendrick being untouchable¡­ and here we are, about to take over everything.¡±Victor leaned back in his seat, a satisfied smirk ying on his lips.


    ¡°It¡¯s not just about taking over, Sam. It¡¯s aboutpletely wiping out his legacy. By the time we¡¯re done, no one will even remember the name Kendrick. It¡¯ll be like he never existed.


    ¡°The third man, Lucas Stone, set his ss down and pulled out a sleek tablet from his briefcase. With a few quick taps, he brought up a series of documents on the screen. ¡°We¡¯ve got everything we need right here,¡± he said, his voice a smooth purr. ¡°The financials, the assets, the offshore ounts¡­ It¡¯s all ours now. All we need to do is finalize the paperwork.¡±Victor nodded, his eyes narrowing as he studied the documents.


    ¡°This is the dawn of a new era, gentlemen. An era where we control everything-the wealth, the power, the influence. And with Mr. Kendrick out of the way, there¡¯s nothing to stop us.¡±Sam let out a bark ofughter, raising his ss again. ¡°To the Kendrick Empire¡¯s downfall! And to the dawn of the Hale-Stone-Grant era!¡±The men toasted once more, theirughter filling the room.


    It was a sinister sound, one that would send chills down the spine of anyone who heard it. But there was no one around to hear, no one to stop them.


    The Kendrick Empire was theirs now, and they were reveling in their victory.


    As they drank and plotted, the conversation turned to their ns for the future. Victor, ever the strategist, began outlining the rebranding efforts they would undertake in theing weeks.¡±First things first,¡± Victor began, his voice taking on amanding tone. ¡°We need topletely overhaul thepany¡¯s image.


    Kendrick Industries will be no more. Instead, we¡¯llunch a new brand, one that reflects our vision-our power.¡±What about the employees?¡± Lucas asked, his fingers tapping thoughtfully on the tablet. ¡°We need to make sure we have the right people in ce. Loyalists. People who will follow our orders without question.¡±Victor nodded in agreement. ¡°We¡¯ll clean house. Anyone too close to Kendrick, anyone who might still be loyal to him, will be let go. We need a fresh start, with people who understand who¡¯s in charge now.¡±


    ¡°And the assets?¡± Sam chimed in. ¡°We should start liquidating some of the less profitable ventures. Focus on what brings in the real money.¡±Lucas, always the numbers man, quickly pulled up a list of thepany¡¯s holdings. ¡°There are a few divisions that have been underperforming. We can sell them off and reinvest the capital into more lucrative markets.


    ¡°Victor smiled, pleased with the direction of the conversation. ¡°Exactly. We¡¯ll streamline operations, cut the fat, and make sure every move we make strengthens our position. We¡¯re going to turn thispany into a powerhouse.¡±


    As the men continued toy out their ns, the bartender approached their table, cautiously refilling their sses. He kept his head down, avoiding eye contact, but couldn¡¯t help overhearing bits and pieces of their conversation. It was enough to make his hands tremble as he poured the whiskey, but he quickly retreated to the safety of the bar, not daring to linger.


    Victor noticed the bartender¡¯s unease and smirked. ¡°Looks like we might need to take care of a few loose ends,¡± he remarked, his tone casual butced with a chilling undertone.¡±Leave it to me,¡± Sam said with a grin, cracking his knuckles. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure he doesn¡¯t remember a thing.


    ¡°The men shared another darkugh, their minds already turning to the next phase of their n. As the night wore on, their discussion grew more detailed and more ambitious. They were drunk on power, intoxicated by the thought of finally bringing the Kendrick name to its knees.


    Meanwhile, across town, the hospital where Ryan and Mr. Kendricky in their respective rooms was eerily quiet. The fluorescent lights flickered softly in the corridors, casting a sterile glow over the scene.


    In his private room, Ryan remained unconscious, the machines beeping steadily as they monitored his fragile condition.


    Be sat by his bedside, her eyes red from crying, her heart heavy with worry. She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something terrible was happening, something far beyond what she couldprehend.


    And as much as she tried to focus on Ryan, her mind kept drifting to the unanswered questions swirling around her.


    Mrs. Rose was nowhere to be seen. After receiving the call from Detective Harris, she had left the hospital in a rush, her mind filled with dread.


    She hadn¡¯t told Be where she was going or why, only that it was urgent. Now, Be was left alone with her thoughts, feeling more isted and afraid than ever.


    In another wing of the hospital, Mr. Kendricky in aa, his once powerful andmanding presence reduced to a frail and helpless figure. The doctors had done all they could, but his condition was critical, and they could only wait and hope for a miracle.


    As the hours passed, Be began to feel a growing sense of unease. Something wasn¡¯t right. She could feel it in her bones. The silence of the hospital, the absence of Mrs. Rose, the crypticments from the doctors-it all added up to something she couldn¡¯t quite put her finger on.


    She looked down at Ryan, her heart aching as she stroked his hand. ¡°Please wake up,¡± she whispered, tears spilling down her cheeks. ¡°I need you. We all need you.¡±But Ryan remained still, his face pale and lifeless, a stark contrast to the vibrant man he had once been.


    Back at the bar, the men were wrapping up their meeting, satisfied with the night¡¯s work. Victor stood up, adjusting his suit jacket as he prepared to leave.


    ¡°We¡¯ve got a lot of work ahead of us, gentlemen. But I do not doubt that we¡¯ll seed. The Kendrick Empire is ours now, and there¡¯s nothing that can stop us.¡±The others nodded in agreement, their eyes gleaming with anticipation.


    They could already see the wealth and power that awaited them, the fruits of theirbor finally within reach.


    As they made their way to the exit, Victor paused at the door, turning back to look at the bar onest time. His smirk widened as he surveyed the room, his mind already racing with the possibilities thaty ahead.¡±Here¡¯s to a new beginning,¡± he said, his voice filled with confidence and certainty.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°The beginning of a new dynasty.¡±And with that, the men stepped out into the night, their footsteps echoing in the empty streets as they walked away from the bar, leaving behind a trail of ns, ambitions, and the cold promise of a future dominated by their control.


    But as they disappeared into the shadows, they remained blissfully unaware of the unseen forces that were beginning to stir, forces that could very well turn their triumph into tragedy.


    The night was far from over, and the story of the Kendrick Empire was just beginning to unfold in ways none of them could have ever imagined.

 Chapter 70

    Ivy sat beside Ryan¡¯s hospital bed after Be left to go and rest at home, Ivy¡¯s eyes red and swollen from days of crying. The room was eerily silent except for the steady beeping of the heart monitor, a sound that had be a cruel reminder of her brother¡¯s fragile state.


    She reached out, brushing a strand of hair from Ryan¡¯s forehead, her hands trembling.


    ¡°Ryan, you have to wake up,¡± she whispered, her voice cracking. ¡°You¡¯re all I have left now. Please, just¡­ wake up.¡±Her thoughts drifted to their father, Mr. Kendrick, whoy in aa just a few rooms down the hall.


    The news of Ryan¡¯s ident had been too much for him, and now, the two men who were her entire world were hanging on by a thread. The weight of it all was unbearable. Ivy buried her face in her hands, her body shaking with silent sobs.


    Mrs. Rose stood by the window, staring out into the bleak hospital courtyard. Her face was a mask ofposure, but inside, she was unraveling.


    The empire she and her husband had built, the carefully crafted image of power and perfection, was crumbling around her.


    ¡°Mum,¡± Ivy¡¯s voice broke the silence, ¡°what if they don¡¯t make it?¡±Mrs. Rose turned to face her daughter, her expression softening slightly. She crossed the room and sat beside Ivy, taking her hand in hers.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°They will,¡± Mrs. Rose said, her voice firm, though it wavered slightly at the end. ¡°We have to believe they will.


    The Kendricks don¡¯t fall easily.¡±But the truth gnawed at her. She had always believed in the strength of her family, in the invincibility of their legacy.


    But now, as she looked at her children, she felt that belief slipping away.


    Just then, the door to the room opened, and Luca rushed in, his face etched with concern. Ivy had called him in a moment of desperation, and he had dropped everything to be there.


    ¡°Ivy,¡± Luca breathed, hurrying to her side. ¡°Are you okay?¡±Ivy looked up at him, her eyes filled with unshed tears. ¡°Luca¡­ they¡¯re not getting better. I don¡¯t know what to do.¡±Luca wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close.


    ¡°You¡¯re doing everything you can, Ivy. You¡¯re being strong for them.¡±Mrs. Rose watched the exchange with a mixture of relief and suspicion.


    She had noticed the growing closeness between Ivy and Luca, and while she appreciated that Luca was there for her daughter, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder if there was more to his presence. The Kendrick family had enemies, and she wasn¡¯t about to let anyone take advantage of their vulnerability.


    ¡°Thank you foring, Luca,¡± Mrs. Rose said, her tone polite but distant. ¡°Ivy needs all the support she can get right now.¡±Luca nodded, still holding Ivy.


    ¡°Of course, Mrs. Rose. I¡¯m here for anything you need.¡±Mrs. Rose forced a smile, though it didn¡¯t reach her eyes. ¡°That¡¯s very kind of you.¡±


    Luca pulled back slightly, looking Ivy in the eyes. ¡°Why don¡¯t you take a break, Ivy? Go get some air. I¡¯ll stay with Ryan.¡±Ivy hesitated, ncing back at her brother.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to leave him¡­¡±


    ¡°He¡¯ll be okay for a few minutes,¡± Luca assured her. ¡°You need to take care of yourself too.¡±Ivy finally nodded, her exhaustion overwhelming her.


    She allowed Luca to guide her out of the room, the weight of the past few days pressing down on her. As they walked down the hospital corridor, Luca gently squeezed Ivy¡¯s hand. ¡°Ivy¡­ I know this is a terrible time, but I want you to know that I¡¯m here for you. Not just as a friend, but¡­ more.¡±Ivy stopped, turning to face him. Her heart skipped a beat at the sincerity in his eyes.


    She had felt the connection between them growing stronger, but she hadn¡¯t allowed herself to dwell on it, not with everything else going on.


    Now, with Luca standing before her, his feelingsid bare, she felt a surge of emotion that she had been trying to suppress.


    ¡°Luca, I¡­¡± Ivy began, but the words caught in her throat. ¡°I don¡¯t know if I¡¯m ready for this. Everything is so¡­ uncertain.¡±I understand,¡± Luca said softly, ¡°but just know that I¡¯m not going anywhere. I care about you, Ivy. More than you know.¡±Ivy¡¯s eyes filled with tears once more, but this time they were tears of gratitude. She leaned in and hugged Luca tightly, findingfort in his presence.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± she whispered. ¡°I don¡¯t know what I would do without you.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to find out,¡± Luca replied, holding her close. ¡°I¡¯m here. For as long as you need me.¡±They stood there for a moment, the chaos of the hospital fading into the background as they found sce in each other.


    Meanwhile, back in the hospital room, Mrs. Rose stared out the window, lost in her thoughts. The empire she had fought so hard to protect was in danger, not just from outside forces but from within.


    The secrets she and her husband had kept were threatening to surface, and she wasn¡¯t sure if they could withstand the fallout.


    As she watched Ivy and Luca walk down the corridor, a nagging suspicion gnawed at her.


    She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was off, that there were forces at y that she couldn¡¯t control


    . But for now, all she could do was wait. Wait for her husband to wake up, wait for her son to recover, and wait for the storm she knew wasing.


    Back in Ryan¡¯s room, Luca sat by his bedside, his expression serious.


    ¡°Ryan, you need to fight. Ivy needs you. We all do.¡±He paused, ncing around to make sure they were alone. ¡°I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on, but I promise you, I¡¯m going to find out. Whatever it takes.¡±


    As Luca spoke, Ryan¡¯s hand twitched slightly, a faint sign of life that sent a surge of hope through Luca¡¯s heart. He leaned in closer, his voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°Hold on, Ryan. Just hold on.¡±


    Ivy returned to Ryan¡¯s room, unaware of the danger that was closing in on them. As Ivy sat by her brother¡¯s side, she whispered a silent prayer, hoping against hope that he would wake up and that everything would be okay.


    But as the minutes ticked by, a sense of foreboding settled over her. Something wasing, something that would change everything.


    And she wasn¡¯t sure if any of them were ready for it.


    A mysterious figure listens in on the three men¡¯s toast to the fall of the Kendricks, hinting at deeper betrayals and a looming threat that Ivy, Luca, and Mrs. Rose are unaware of.

 Chapter 71

    Mrs Jessica sat in the dimly lit room, her thoughts swirling like a storm.


    The air was thick with the scent of damp concrete and stale air, a far cry from the peaceful life she once led.


    She clutched the thin nket around her shoulders, trying to ward off the chill that had seeped into her bones.


    ¡°How did ite to this?¡± she whispered to herself, her voice trembling with fear and exhaustion.


    The bruises on her arms and the cut on her lip were painful reminders of her captors¡¯ brutality.


    The thought of her daughter, Iris, filled her heart with both warmth and sorrow.


    ¡°Iris, where are you, my dear?¡± she murmured, tears welling up in her eyes.


    Jessica¡¯s mind raced as she tried to piece together how she ended up in this nightmare.


    The quiet life she had carved out for herself seemed like a distant memory now.


    She had fled from danger once before, leaving behind a past she thought was long buried. But now, as she sat in this cold, dark room, she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that the past had finally caught up with her.


    ¡°Could it be her again?¡± Jessica thought, her heart pounding in her chest.


    The idea seemed absurd so many years had passed. Yet, the fear gnawed at her.


    Mrs Jessica knew she was a woman of power and influence, capable of digging up secrets buried deep. If she had somehow discovered that Jessica was still alive, there would be no escape this time.


    The door creaked open, and Jessica tensed, her breath catching in her throat. A man stepped into the room, his face obscured by shadows.


    He moved with a predatory grace, his presence filling the small space with an ominous energy.


    ¡°Are you ready to talk?¡± he asked, his voice smooth butced with menace.


    Jessica remained silent, her eyes narrowing as she stared at him. The man chuckled, a sound that sent shivers down her spine.


    ¡°You¡¯re tougher than I expected,¡± he said, taking a step closer.


    ¡°But everyone has a breaking point. It¡¯s only a matter of time.¡±Jessica¡¯s resolve hardened.


    She had survived worse than this, and she would not let fear break her now.


    ¡°What do you want from me?¡± she asked, her voice steady despite the tremor in her hands.


    He crouched down in front of her, his eyes locking onto hers.


    ¡°Information,¡± he said simply. ¡°And you¡¯re going to give it to me.¡±Jessica swallowed hard, her thoughts racing.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know anything,¡± she insisted, but the man shook his head.


    ¡°Don¡¯t lie to me, Jessica,¡± he warned, his tone turning cold.


    ¡°I know who you are, and I know what you¡¯ve been hiding.¡±She felt a chill run down her spine. If he knew her true identity, then the danger was far greater than she had imagined.


    ¡°Please,¡± she whispered, ¡°I have nothing to offer you.¡±The man¡¯s expression softened slightly as if he almost pitied her.


    ¡°You underestimate your value, Jessica. There are people who would pay dearly for what you know. It¡¯s up to you whether you leave this ce alive.¡±


    Jessica¡¯s thoughts turned back to Iris. She had to stay strong, if not for herself, then for her daughter.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you nothing,¡± she said, her voice firm.


    The man stood up, his expression darkening.


    ¡°We¡¯ll see about that,¡± he said before turning to leave. ¡°But know this-you¡¯re running out of time.¡±


    As the door closed behind him, Jessica slumped against the wall, her strength ebbing away. The pain in her body was almost unbearable, but it was nothingpared to the agony in her heart.


    She had been a fool to think she could escape her past. Now, it seemed that the past was going to consume her entirely.


    She closed her eyes, her thoughts drifting to Iris once more.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, my sweet girl,¡± she whispered, tears slipping down her cheeks. ¡°I never wanted this for you.¡±


    As the hours passed, Jessica¡¯s mind began to wander. The pain was making her delirious, her thoughts slipping in and out of focus. She could hear distant voices, faint and distorted as if they wereing from another world.


    ¡°Jessica,¡± a voice called out, gentle and familiar. Her eyes fluttered open, and she gasped. There, in the corner of the room, stood a figure bathed in soft light. It was her husband, the one she had lost so many years ago.


    ¡°William?¡± she breathed, her heart aching at the sight of him. He smiled at her, his expression warm andforting.


    ¡°You have to stay strong, Jess,¡± he said, his voice soothing.


    ¡°For Iris. She needs you now more than ever.¡±Jessica shook her head, tears streaming down her face. ¡°I can¡¯t do this, William. I¡¯m not strong enough.¡±


    William stepped closer, his hand reaching out to touch her face. ¡°Yes, you are,¡± he whispered. ¡°You¡¯ve always been stronger than you know. Don¡¯t let them break you.¡±Jessica sobbed, her heart breaking all over again. ¡°I miss you so much,¡± she cried. ¡°I wish you were here.¡±


    ¡°I am here,¡± William said, his voice filled with love. ¡°I¡¯ll always be with you, Jess. But you have to fight. You have to survive, for Iris.¡±She nodded, her resolve strengthening. ¡°I¡¯ll fight,¡± she promised, her voice shaking with emotion. ¡°I¡¯ll do whatever it takes to protect her.¡±


    As the vision of William began to fade, Jessica clung to the strength he had given her. She would endure this pain, this torture because her daughter needed her.


    No matter what these men did to her, she would not give them the satisfaction of breaking her.


    The door opened again, and the same man from before entered. He looked at her, surprised by the defiance in her eyes.¡±You¡¯re stronger than I thought,¡± he remarked, a hint of admiration in his voice.


    ¡°But strength won¡¯t save you, Jessica. Only cooperation will.¡±Jessica met his gaze, her expression steely. ¡°I won¡¯t give you anything,¡± she said, her voice unwavering.


    The man frowned, but there was a trace of respect in his eyes. ¡°You¡¯re a stubborn woman,¡± he said, almost to himself. ¡°But everyone has a breaking point.¡±As he left the room once more, Jessica felt a surge of determination. She would not break. She would not give them what they wanted.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    And somehow, she would find a way to survive this nightmare.


    Hours turned into days, and Jessica¡¯s strength began to wane. The pain was constant; her body was weakened by theck of food and water.


    But her mind remained sharp, her thoughts focused on one thing: Iris. She didn¡¯t know if her daughter was alive or dead, but she refused to believe that Iris was gone.


    She had to survive if only to find out what had happened to her. One day, as Jessicay on the cold floor, the door opened again. But this time, it wasn¡¯t the man who had been interrogating her.


    It was someone else someone she recognized. Her heart skipped a beat as the figure stepped into the light.


    It was her.


    Jessica¡¯s blood ran cold as their eyes met.


    She smiled, a cruel, triumphant smile that sent a wave of terror through Jessica¡¯s body


    .¡±Hello, Jessica,¡± She said, her voice dripping with malice.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a long time.¡±Jessica¡¯s heart pounded in her chest.


    The past had finally caught up with her, and she knew, at that moment, that there was no escaping it.


    She stepped closer, her eyes gleaming with malevolence. ¡°You should have stayed dead,¡± she whispered, her voice soft but filled with venom.


    ¡°But now that you¡¯re here, I¡¯ll make sure you wish you were.¡±


    As her words hung in the air, Jessica felt a wave of despair wash over her.


    But deep within her, a spark of defiance remained. She would not go down without a fight. For Iris, she would endure whatever came next.


    And as she loomed over her, Jessica knew that this was just the beginning. The real battle had yet to begin, and she would need every ounce of strength she had to survive it.

 Chapter 72

    The sterile scent of antiseptic hung heavily in the air as the hum of medical equipment provided a steady, disheartening rhythm.


    The days had stretched into weeks, and Ryan remained unresponsive, lying in his hospital bed, trapped in aa that seemed unbreakable.


    His family had grown ustomed to the routine of monitoring his vitals, hoping for the slightest sign of improvement, but each day their hope was met with silence.


    Dr. Parker¡¯s voice echoed in the cold, dimly lit hospital room as he exined Ryan¡¯s condition to Mrs. Rose, Ivy, and Luca. ¡°Ryan¡¯s body has been under a tremendous amount of stress.


    The gunshot wound from a few weeks ago hadn¡¯t fully healed, and now this ident haspounded the problem. His brain is severely stressed, which is why he¡¯s been slow to respond to treatment.¡±


    Mrs. Rose, her eyes red from ack of sleep and relentless crying, gripped the side of Ryan¡¯s bed. ¡°But he will recover, won¡¯t he? He has to wake up,¡± she pleaded, her voice trembling with desperation.


    Dr. Parker sighed, trying to maintain a reassuring tone. ¡°We¡¯re doing everything we can. His brain needs time to heal. Stress like this can cause significant dys in recovery, but we¡¯re hopeful that with continued care, he¡¯ll start to show signs of improvement.¡±


    Ivy stood at the foot of the bed, her hands clenched tightly in front of her. She had spent the past few weeks crying, her once vibrant eyes now dull and shadowed by the weight of her grief. Ryan, her brother, her protector,y still, and now their father was suffering as well. She couldn¡¯t lose them both.


    Luca, standing quietly beside Ivy, felt a pang of worry for her. Over the past few weeks, they had grown closer, findingfort in each other during this dark time. He knew she was on the verge of breaking down and couldn¡¯t bear to see her fall apart.


    ¡°Ivy, you need to rest,¡± Luca said softly, cing a gentle hand on her shoulder. ¡°You¡¯ve been here day and night. You¡¯ll get sick if you don¡¯t take care of yourself.¡±


    She shook her head stubbornly, refusing to leave Ryan¡¯s side. ¡°I can¡¯t leave him, Luca. What if something happens while I¡¯m gone? I have to be here.¡±


    Mrs. Rose, though consumed by her grief, nodded in agreement with Luca. ¡°He¡¯s right, Ivy. You need to rest. We can¡¯t afford to have you falling ill as well. Please, go home for a few hours, just to sleep.¡±


    Ivy hesitated, her eyes flicking between Ryan and Luca. The thought of leaving him even for a moment felt like a betrayal, but her mother¡¯s insistence and Luca¡¯s worried gaze finally wore her down.


    ¡°Alright,¡± she whispered, her voice barely audible. ¡°But just for a little while.¡±


    Luca offered to drive her home, relieved that she had finally agreed. As they walked through the sterile hospital halls, the silence between them was heavy with unspoken words.


    Ivy¡¯s thoughts were consumed with worry for her brother and father, while Luca¡¯s were focused on her. He could see how much this was tearing her apart, and all he wanted was to ease her pain.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    When they finally arrived at the Kendrick estate, Ivy moved through the house like a ghost, her steps slow and heavy. Luca followed her inside, unsure of what to say or do. As she reached the living room, Ivy stopped suddenly, turning to face him. Her eyes were filled with a mixture of sorrow and something else-something deeper, more desperate.


    ¡°Luca¡­¡± she began, her voice trembling. ¡°I can¡¯t¡­ I don¡¯t know how much more of this I can take. I¡¯m so scared.¡±


    Luca stepped closer, his heart breaking for her. ¡°Ivy, you¡¯re strong. I know this is hard, but you¡¯ll get through it. We¡¯ll get through it together.¡±


    Ivy shook her head, tears spilling down her cheeks. ¡°I don¡¯t want to be strong anymore. I just want everything to go back to the way it was.¡±


    Without thinking, Luca pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly as she sobbed against his chest. He stroked her hair, whispering soothing words as she let out all the pain she had been holding in. As her sobs quieted, Ivy looked up at him, her eyes filled with a vulnerability he had never seen before.


    ¡°Stay with me,¡± she whispered, her voice barely above a breath.


    Luca hesitated, knowing what she was asking. He knew he should leave and give her space, but the connection between them was too strong. He couldn¡¯t walk away from her, not now.


    ¡°Ivy¡­¡± he began, but she silenced him with a kiss, her lips soft and desperate against his. It was a kiss filled with need, with all the fear and pain she had been carrying. Luca responded, his hands tightening around her as he kissed her back with equal fervor.


    Before he knew it, they were in her bedroom, the door closing behind them. Ivy¡¯s hands fumbled with his shirt as she pulled him closer, needing to feel his warmth, hisfort. Luca hesitated for only a moment before giving in, his own need for her overpowering his better judgment.


    They made love with a desperation born from fear and grief, seeking sce in each other¡¯s arms. As theyy together afterward, their bodies entwined, Ivy¡¯s breathing finally steadied, and for the first time in weeks, she felt a small measure of peace.


    Meanwhile, back at the hospital, Mr. Kendrick had finally regained consciousness. The first thing he asked about was Ryan. His voice was weak, but his concern for his son was evident in every word.


    ¡°How is he?¡± Mr. Kendrick asked, his eyes searching Dr. Parker¡¯s face for answers.


    Dr. Parker, standing by his bedside, hesitated before speaking. ¡°He¡¯s stable, but his recovery will take time. He¡¯s been through a lot, and his body needs time to heal.¡±


    Mr. Kendrick¡¯s face fell, his heart heavy with worry. ¡°I should have done more to protect him,¡± he murmured, his voice filled with regret.


    ¡°You couldn¡¯t have known this would happen,¡± Dr. Parker reassured him. ¡°The best thing you can do now is focus on your recovery so you can be there for him when he wakes up.¡±


    Mrs. Rose, who had been sitting silently by the bed, reached out to take her husband¡¯s hand. ¡°We¡¯re all going to get through this,¡± she said, her voice firm despite the tears in her eyes. ¡°Ryan is strong. He¡¯ll fight his way back to us.¡±


    Mr. Kendrick squeezed her hand weakly, his eyes filled with gratitude for her strength. ¡°Thank you,¡± he whispered, his voice barely audible.


    Dr. Parker gave them a moment before continuing. ¡°Mr. Kendrick, I know you¡¯re worried about Ryan, but you need to take care of yourself as well. Your health is just as important.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll do whatever it takes,¡± Mr. Kendrick replied, his voice stronger now. ¡°Just promise me you¡¯ll do everything in your power to help my son.¡±


    ¡°You have my word,¡± Dr. Parker said, his tone serious. ¡°We¡¯re doing everything we can.¡±


    As Mr. Kendrick drifted back to sleep, Mrs. Rose stayed by his side, her mind racing with worry. She couldn¡¯t lose them both- not Ryan and her husband. The thought of losing her family was too much to bear.


    Back at the mansion, Luca stirred in Ivy¡¯s bed, his mind still reeling from what had happened. As much as he cared for Ivy, he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that they had crossed a line. He knew things would never be the same between them, but he also knew he couldn¡¯t abandon her now.


    Ivy, still wrapped in the warmth of Luca¡¯s arms, whispered into the darkness, ¡°Thank you for staying.¡±


    Luca kissed the top of her head, his heart heavy with conflicting emotions. ¡°I¡¯ll always be here for you, Ivy. No matter what.¡±


    As the night wore on, the two of them fell into a fitful sleep, their dreams haunted by the uncertainties of the future. But as dawn approached, a sense of determination settled over Luca. He knew he had to be strong for Ivy, no matter what challengesy ahead.


    The next morning, Mr. Kendrick awoke with a new sense of resolve. He may have been bedridden, but his mind was sharp, and he was determined to find out who was responsible for his son¡¯s condition. He had enemies-he knew that much now, more than ever, he needed to uncover the truth.


    ¡°Dr. Parker,¡± Mr. Kendrick called out as the doctor entered the room.


    ¡°You know you are my best friend, and I believe this affects you as much as it does to me; I need your help. Not just with Ryan, but with something more.¡±


    Dr. Parker raised an eyebrow, curious. ¡°What do you have in mind?¡±


    Mr. Kendrick¡¯s eyes narrowed, his voice cold and calcting. ¡°I want you to find out who did this to my son. I want names, and I want them now.¡±


    Dr. Parker hesitated, knowing the danger in what Mr. Kendrick was asking. But he also knew that the man before him was not one to be crossed. ¡°I¡¯ll see what I can do,¡± he finally replied, his tone cautious.


    Mr. Kendrick nodded, his expression grim. ¡°Good. Because when I find out who¡¯s responsible, they¡¯ll wish they had never crossed me.¡±


    As Dr. Parker left the room, a sense of foreboding settled over him. The Kendricks were a powerful family, but power always came with a price. And as the pieces of the puzzle began to fall into ce.

 Chapter 73

    The soft hum of the air conditioning provided a steady background noise in Dr. Parker¡¯s office, but the tension in the room was anything but calming.


    The sterile, clinical atmosphere shed sharply with the ndestine whispers and stolen nces that passed between Dr. Parker and his long-time mistress.


    They were ying a dangerous game, one that had been carefully orchestrated for years, and tonight, the stakes were higher than ever.


    His mistress paced the length of the office, her heels clicking sharply against the tiled floor.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Her elegant appearance-dark hair pulled into a sleek chignon, and a tailored dress that hugged her figure-belied the turmoil brewing beneath the surface.


    She paused in front of therge mahogany desk, her eyes narrowing as she turned to face Dr. Parker, who leaned casually against the desk, his shirt slightly untucked from the passionate encounter that had just taken ce.


    ¡°You should have finished him off when he copsed,¡± she hissed, her voice low but seething with frustration. ¡°Why are you going so soft on him now, Parker? This was the perfect opportunity!¡±Dr. Parker sighed, rubbing his temples as if trying to stave off a headache.


    ¡°Honey, it¡¯s not that simple. Killing him now would raise too many suspicions, especially with everything that¡¯s already going on. We need to be careful and precise. Thest thing we need is anyone catching onto us.¡±


    His mistress clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms as she struggled to contain her anger. ¡°Careful? Precise? We¡¯ve been careful for years! I¡¯m tired of waiting, Parker.


    Ryan¡¯s already out of the picture for now, and Ivy is too wrapped up in her grief to notice anything. This is our chance!¡±


    Dr. Parker pushed himself off the desk and moved closer to her, his expression firm. ¡°And what happens if someone finds out? If Mr. Kendrick dies suddenly, the board will start digging, and they¡¯ll uncover everything.


    We need to ensure that when he¡¯s gone, it looks natural, inevitable.¡±


    His mistress let out a frustrated sigh, crossing her arms over her chest as she tried to rein in her impatience.


    ¡°And how long do you suggest we wait, then? He¡¯s already survived one heart attack; what makes you think he won¡¯t survive another?


    ¡°Dr. Parker reached out, gently cupping her chin in his hand and forcing her to look at him. ¡°Trust me, honey. I¡¯ve gotten us this far, haven¡¯t I? We¡¯ve managed to keep our affair hidden, manipte the Kendricks, and maneuver ourselves into positions of power. We¡¯ll eliminate Mr. Kendrick, but we¡¯ll do it in a way that leaves no trace.¡±


    His mistress stared into his eyes, searching for any sign of doubt. Finding none, she finally rxed, though her frustration still simmered beneath the surface.


    ¡°Fine,¡± she conceded, though her tone was anything but satisfied. ¡°But this needs to end soon, Parker. I¡¯m not going to wait forever.¡±Dr. Parker nodded, releasing her and taking a step back. ¡°It will. I have a n in ce, but we need to be patient.¡±


    She scoffed, her voiceced with sarcasm. ¡°Patience, right? Because that¡¯s something I¡¯ve had plenty of over the years.¡±Dr. Parker ignored the jab, focusing instead on the next steps. ¡°Where¡¯s Ivy?¡± he asked, shifting the conversation away from their mutual frustration.


    ¡°She¡¯s gone home with Luca, I guess,¡± she replied, her tone softening slightly. ¡°She¡¯s been a wreck since the ident, and with Ryan still unconscious, she¡¯s on the verge of breaking down.  it was best for her to get some rest.


    ¡°Dr. Parker nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Good. The less she¡¯s around, the easier it¡¯ll be to control the situation here.¡±


    She arched an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. ¡°And what exactly is your n, Parker? How are you going to make this look ¡®natural¡¯?¡±He leaned in closer, lowering his voice as if the walls had ears.


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick¡¯s health is alreadypromised. We¡¯ll slowly increase his stress levels, push him to the edge, and when the time is right, we¡¯ll administer a lethal dose of medication. It¡¯ll look like a natural progression of his illness-another heart attack, or perhaps a stroke.¡±


    She listened intently, her mind racing as she considered the implications. ¡°And no one will suspect a thing?¡±


    ¡°No one,¡± Dr. Parker confirmed. ¡°Not even Ivy. We¡¯ve been ying this game for years, honey. We know how to cover our tracks.¡±


    Her lips curved into a cold smile, the excitement of their impending sess momentarily pushing aside her frustration. ¡°Then let¡¯s do it. The sooner we¡¯re rid of him, the sooner we can take control of everything.¡±


    Dr. Parker returned her smile, though he was tinged with a sense of caution. ¡°We will. But remember, honey, we have to be smart about this.


    One wrong move and everything we¡¯ve worked for coulde crashing down.¡±Her smile faltered slightly, the weight of his words settling over her like a dark cloud.


    ¡°I know,¡± she murmured, her earlier confidence wavering. ¡°But I¡¯m just so tired of waiting. We¡¯vee so far, and I¡¯m ready to see the end of this.¡±


    Dr. Parker reached out, cing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. ¡°We¡¯re almost there. Just a little longer, and everything we¡¯ve dreamed of will be ours.¡±She looked up at him, her eyes filled with a mixture of hope and fear. ¡°You promise?¡±


    ¡°I promise,¡± Dr. Parker replied, his voice steady. ¡°Now, go home and get some rest. We¡¯ll need to be at our best when the timees.¡±


    She nodded, reluctantly stepping away from him. ¡°You¡¯re right. But Parker¡­ don¡¯t make me wait too long.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t,¡± he assured her, watching as she gathered her things and left the office.


    Once she was gone, Dr. Parker allowed himself a moment of contemtion. The n was risky, but it was the only way to ensure they woulde out on top. As he sat back at his desk, his mind raced with thoughts of what needed to be done next.


    There was no room for error, no margin for failure. He reached for the phone, dialing a number he knew by heart. The line rang twice before a voice answered on the other end.¡±It¡¯s me,¡± Dr. Parker said, his voice cold and calcted. ¡°We need to elerate the n. Mr. Kendrick¡¯s health is deteriorating, but we can¡¯t afford to wait any longer. Make sure everything is in ce.¡±The voice on the other end responded with a simple, ¡°Understood.¡±


    Dr. Parker hung up the phone, a sense of finality settling over him. The wheels were in motion, and there was no turning back now.


    Meanwhile, back at the Kendrick estate, Ivyy in bed, her mind a whirlpool of emotions. Thefort of Luca¡¯s presence had soothed her earlier, but now, in the quiet of the night, the weight of her family¡¯s situation pressed down on her like a suffocating nket.


    She had tried to distract herself by focusing on Luca, on the growing connection between them, but it wasn¡¯t enough to erase the fear gnawing at her insides.


    She tossed and turned, sleep eluding her as she thought about her father and brother, both fighting for their lives.


    The thought of losing them was unbearable, and the helplessness she felt was overwhelming. Eventually, she couldn¡¯t stand the silence any longer. She slipped out of bed, wrapping a robe around herself as she padded down the hall.

 Chapter 74

    Be sat in Mr. Kendrick¡¯srge, leather chair, her fingers lightly tracing the edge of the desk as she slowly twirled the seat around.


    The view from the top floor of the Kendrick Enterprises building was breathtaking, but her eyes weren¡¯t on the sprawling cityscape.


    They were fixed on her reflection in the ss, the corners of her mouth lifting into a satisfied smile. The office that once belonged to Mr. Kendrick was now under her control, and for the first time in weeks, she felt a sense of triumph.


    ¡°Finally,¡± she murmured to herself, leaning back in the chair. ¡°This is all mine.¡±The satisfaction in her voice was palpable, a stark contrast to the tumultuous emotions she had experienced recently.


    The loss of her pregnancy had been a devastating blow, but this¡­this was something she could hold onto. Power, control, the fruits of her calcted efforts-everything was finally falling into ce


    . As she closed her eyes, savoring the moment, the door to the office creaked open. Be¡¯s eyes snapped open, and she quickly straightened up, turning her attention to the man who had entered the room.


    ¡°Wee to ourpany, brother,¡± Be said smoothly as she rose from the chair, her voice dripping with a mixture of warmth and smugness.


    She walked towards him with purpose, each step echoing with the confidence of someone who knew exactly what they wanted.


    ¡°We¡¯ve worked so hard for this, and now it¡¯s finally ours.¡±The man who entered the room was tall and imposing, his presence filling the space with an air of authority. He had a deep, husky voice that carried a sense ofmand as he responded, ¡°Oh yes. It¡¯s about time we reaped the rewards of our efforts.¡±


    His dark eyes scanned the room, taking in every detail, before settling on Be. ¡°Where are the documents?¡± he asked, his tone firm and businesslike.


    Be¡¯s smile widened a glint of amusement in her eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, bro,¡± she said, her voice smooth and reassuring.


    ¡°They¡¯re in a safe ce. I have the duplicates right here, just in case theye around causing any trouble.¡±


    She walked over to therge desk and opened a drawer, pulling out a sleek, leather-bound folder.


    The man watched her intently as she ced it on the desk and flipped it open, revealing a stack of neatly organized documents.


    ¡°Everything we need is right here,¡± Be continued, her fingers brushing over the papers as if they were precious treasures. ¡°The originals are well hidden. No one will find them unless I want them to.¡±


    The man nodded approvingly, his lips curving into a small smile. ¡°Good. We can¡¯t afford any mistakes, especially now. Mr. Kendrick¡¯s condition is deteriorating, and it won¡¯t be long before we have full control.¡±


    Be¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement as she closed the folder and slid it back into the drawer. ¡°I¡¯ve waited so long for this moment. We¡¯ve both sacrificed so much, but it¡¯s finally paying off.¡±


    The man walked over to her, cing a hand on her shoulder. ¡°And we¡¯ll make sure it stays that way. No one will take this from us. Not Mr. Kendrick, not Ivy, not Ryan-no one.¡±Be leaned into his touch, feeling a surge of confidence and validation.


    ¡°What¡¯s our next move?¡± she asked, her voice filled with anticipation.¡±We wait for the right moment,¡± he replied, his deep voice resonating with calm authority.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°Once Mr. Kendrick is out of the picture, the board will be easier to handle. We¡¯ll secure our positions, make sure the assets are transferred, and then-¡±


    ¡°Then, we own it all,¡± Be finished for him, her voice a whisper of triumph. He nodded, a silent agreement passing between them. The n was simple, ruthless, and effective. It had been in motion for months, each step carefully calcted, each move deliberate.


    But as the man looked down at Be, something flickered in his eyes-something that hinted at a deeper, more personal motive. ¡°And then,¡± he added quietly, his voice softer, almost tender, ¡°we make sure no one ever threatens us again.¡±


    Be caught the shift in his tone and looked up at him, curiosity sparking in her gaze. ¡°You¡¯re not just talking about thepany, are you?¡±He hesitated for a brief moment, his eyes darkening as he considered his words. ¡°No,¡± he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°This is about more than just thepany, Be. It¡¯s about everything they took from us. Everything we deserve.¡±Be¡¯s heart skipped a beat, her breath catching in her throat. There was something in his words, in the way he looked at her, that sent a thrill of excitement and fear coursing through her veins. She knew that this wasn¡¯t just about power or wealth-it was about vengeance.


    She leaned in closer, her voice a conspiratorial whisper. ¡°Then let¡¯s make sure we get everything we deserve. No more waiting, no more holding back.¡±He met her gaze, his expression hardening with determination. ¡°No more waiting,¡± he agreed. ¡°But we need to be smart. There¡¯s too much at stake to let our emotions get in the way.¡±Be nodded, understanding the weight of his words.


    She knew that they were treading on dangerous ground and that one wrong move could cost them everything. But she also knew that they were so close-so close to finally getting what they wanted.¡±I¡¯ve been patient for this long,¡± she said, her voice steady. ¡°I can wait a little longer if it means we win in the end.¡±He gave her a small, approving smile, his hand squeezing her shoulder in a gesture of solidarity.


    ¡°We will win, Be. We¡¯vee too far to lose now.¡±As he released her and stepped back, Be felt a surge of confidence. The n was in motion, and there was no turning back.


    They would have everything they¡¯d ever wanted-power, control, and the satisfaction of knowing that they had taken it all from those who had wronged them.


    But as she watched him leave the office, a nagging thought tugged at the back of her mind. She knew that they were walking a fine line, that one misstep could lead to disaster.


    But she also knew that they couldn¡¯t afford to falter-not now, not when they were so close.


    She took a deep breath, pushing the doubts aside as she turned her attention back to the documents in the drawer. The future was within their grasp, and nothing was going to stop them from seizing it. As she closed the drawer and locked it, a sense of finality settled over her.


    This was it-the moment they had been waiting for. And she was ready to do whatever it took to ensure their victory


    . But in the silence of the office, as the shadows lengthened and the night drew in, Be couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was still out of ce, that there was one more piece of the puzzle yet to be revealed.


    As she sat back in Mr. Kendrick¡¯s chair, her thoughts drifted to Ivy, Ryan, and the others who stood in their way. She knew they wouldn¡¯t give up without a fight, but Be was prepared. She had been through too much and sacrificed too much to let anyone take this from her. With a determined glint in her eyes, Be leaned back in the chair, her fingers tapping rhythmically on the armrest as she contemted the next steps.


    She knew that the road ahead would be treacherous, that there were still obstacles to ovee. But she was ready. And she would stop at nothing to ensure that they came out on top.


    The night outside grew darker, the city lights twinkling in the distance, a reminder of the world thaty beyond the walls of Kendrick Enterprises. But in this office, in this moment, Be knew that she held the power. And she intended to keep it. As she sat there, lost in her thoughts, the door to the office creaked open again, and Be looked up to see her brother standing in the doorway, his expression unreadable.


    ¡°Be,¡± he said quietly, his voice cutting through the silence. ¡°We need to talk.¡±She straightened up, sensing the seriousness in his tone. ¡°What is it?¡±He hesitated for a moment, his eyes flickering with something she couldn¡¯t quite ce. ¡°There¡¯s been a development. Something we didn¡¯t anticipate.¡±Be¡¯s heart skipped a beat, a cold sense of dread settling over her.


    ¡°What do you mean? What¡¯s happened?¡±He stepped into the office, closing the door behind him as he walked over to her. ¡°We might have a problem,¡± he said, his voice low. ¡°I just got word that Ryan is starting to wake up. He¡¯s regaining consciousness.¡±Be¡¯s eyes widened in shock, her mind racing as she processed the news. This wasn¡¯t part of the n-Ryan was supposed to be out of the picture, incapacitated, unable to interfere.


    But if he was waking up¡­¡±What do we do?¡± she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, her earlier confidence faltering in the face of this unexpected development. Her brother¡¯s expression hardened, a steely determination settling in his gaze.


    ¡°We do what we always do, Be. We adapt. We¡¯ll figure out a way to deal with him, just like we¡¯ve dealt with everything else.¡±But as they stared at each other in the dimly lit office, both of them knew that this was more than just a setback.


    This was aplication that could unravel everything they had worked for. As the weight of the situation settled over them, Be couldn¡¯t help but wonder if their carefullyid ns were about toe crashing down around them.

 Chapter 75

    The early morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow across the room. Luca stirred, slowly waking from a deep sleep. As he blinked his eyes open, he was surprised to find Ivy sitting beside him, her gaze fixed on him with an intensity he hadn¡¯t noticed before.


    ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡± Luca asked, his voice groggy as he pushed himself up on one elbow.


    Ivy blinked, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. ¡°Nothing,¡± she said, her voice soft.


    ¡°I¡¯m just¡­ admiring you, I guess.¡±Luca raised an eyebrow, a half-smile tugging at the corner of his lips. ¡°Admiring me, huh? That¡¯s not something I hear every day.


    ¡°Ivy smiled back, but there was a flicker of uncertainty in her eyes. She seemed to hesitate for a moment before asking, ¡°Do you have a girlfriend?¡±


    The question caught Luca off guard. He sat up fully, running a hand through his tousled hair as he processed her words. ¡°No, I don¡¯t,¡± he replied, his tone curious. ¡°Why do you ask?¡±Ivy quickly looked away, busying herself with the sheets on the bed.


    ¡°Nothing. Just¡­ wondering.¡±Luca watched her, trying to read her expression. There was something behind her words, something she wasn¡¯t saying. ¡°Are you sure it¡¯s nothing?¡±Ivy nced at him, her eyes meeting his for a brief moment before she looked away again.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m sure,¡± she said, her voice a little too quick, a little too firm. Luca¡¯s mind whirred with possibilities. Was she interested in him? The thought sent a thrill through him, but he pushed it aside, not wanting to get ahead of himself.


    After all, Ivy had been through a lot recently, and thest thing he wanted was to misinterpret her actions.¡±Alright,¡± Luca said finally, his voice light. ¡°Let¡¯s freshen up and head to the hospital. We should check on Ryan and see how he¡¯s doing.¡±Ivy nodded, relieved at the change in subject.


    ¡°Good idea,¡± she said, slipping off the bed and heading toward the bathroom. ¡°I¡¯ll be quick.¡±As she closed the bathroom door behind her, Luca leaned back against the headboard, his thoughts still lingering on their conversation. Why had Ivy asked about his love life? Did it mean she was interested, or was she simply curious? The uncertainty gnawed at him, but he reminded himself to stay grounded.


    They had more important things to focus on-like uncovering the truth behind the web of deceit that surrounded them.


    The drive to the hospital was quiet, both Luca and Ivy lost in their thoughts. Ivy kept stealing nces at Luca, her mind reying their earlier conversation.


    She wasn¡¯t sure what hadpelled her to ask such a personal question, but she couldn¡¯t deny the flutter of feelings that had been growing inside her ever since they started spending more time together.


    When they arrived at the hospital, the air was thick with tension. The sterile smell of antiseptic greeted them as they walked down the corridor toward Ryan¡¯s room. Ivy¡¯s heart pounded in her chest, a mix of worry and anticipation. She didn¡¯t know what to expect-would Ryan be awake? Would he remember what happened? And most importantly, would they be able to find out who was behind the attempts on his life?


    As they approached the door, Ivy reached for the handle, but Luca stopped her, cing a hand on her arm. ¡°Are you okay?¡± he asked, his voice filled with concernContent is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    . Ivy looked up at him, the warmth of his touch sending aforting wave through her. ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± she said, though her voice wavered slightly. ¡°Just¡­ nervous, I guess.¡±Luca gave her a reassuring smile. ¡°Whatever happens, we¡¯ll face it together,¡± he said, his voice steady and confident.


    Ivy nodded, grateful for his support. She took a deep breath and pushed the door open, stepping into the room. Ryany in the hospital bed, his face pale but peaceful. The steady beeping of the heart monitor filled the room, a rhythmic reminder that he was still fighting, still holding on. Ivy¡¯s heart ached at the sight of her brother, so strong and full of life, now reduced to this fragile state.


    Luca stood beside her, his presence a calming force. ¡°He looks better,¡± he said softly, his eyes fixed on Ryan.


    Before Ivy could respond, the door behind them opened, and Dr. Parker entered the room. His expression was as professional as ever, but there was a coldness in his eyes that Ivy had never noticed before.


    ¡°Good morning,¡± Dr. Parker said, his voice smooth as he approached the bed. ¡°I¡¯m d to see you both here. Ryan¡¯s condition has stabilized overnight, but we¡¯re still monitoring him closely.¡±Ivy nodded, trying to read the doctor¡¯s face. ¡°Do you think he¡¯ll wake up soon?¡± she asked, her voice hopeful.


    Dr. Parker¡¯s lips pressed into a thin line. ¡°It¡¯s difficult to say,¡± he replied, his tone carefully neutral. ¡°He¡¯s been through a lot, both physically and mentally. His body needs time to recover.¡±Luca¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly as he watched the doctor, a sense of unease creeping into his mind.


    Something about Dr. Parker¡¯s demeanor felt off as if he were hiding something. But Luca knew better than to voice his suspicions without evidence.


    ¡°Thank you, Dr. Parker,¡± Ivy said, her voice polite but distant. ¡°We¡¯ll stay with him for a while if that¡¯s okay.¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Dr. Parker replied with a nod. ¡°I¡¯ll be in my office if you need anything.¡±As the doctor left the room, Luca turned to Ivy, his voice low. ¡°I don¡¯t trust him,¡± he said bluntly.


    Ivy looked at him, surprise shing in her eyes. ¡°Why? He¡¯s been our family doctor for years.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t exin it,¡± Luca said, shaking his head. ¡°It¡¯s just a feeling. But I¡¯ve learned to trust my instincts, and something about him doesn¡¯t sit right with me.¡±Ivy frowned, her mind racing.


    ¡°You think he¡¯s involved in all of this?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Luca admitted. ¡°But we need to be careful. There¡¯s more going on here than we realize.¡±Ivy sighed, her shoulders slumping as the weight of the situation pressed down on her. ¡°I feel like I¡¯m in over my head,¡± she whispered.


    ¡°There¡¯s so much happening, and I don¡¯t know who to trust anymore.¡±Luca ced aforting hand on her shoulder. ¡°You¡¯re not alone, Ivy. We¡¯ll figure this out together. But we need to stay focused and not let our guard down.¡±Ivy nodded, feeling a renewed sense of determination.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± she said, her voice stronger. ¡°We¡¯ll find out the truth, no matter what it takes.¡±


    Dr. Parker sat at his desk, his fingers drumming against the polished wood as he stared at the files spread out before him. His mind was a storm of thoughts, each one more dangerous than thest. He knew that time was running out, and if he didn¡¯t act soon, everything he had worked for would be at risk.


    His phone buzzed, interrupting his thoughts. He picked it up, ncing at the screen before answering. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s me,¡± His mistress¡¯ voice purred through the receiver. ¡°How¡¯s our dear Ryan doing?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s stable,¡± Dr. Parker replied, his tone clipped. ¡°But we need to move quickly. The longer we wait, the more likely it is that someone will start asking questions.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m aware,¡± She said, her voice cold. ¡°But we need to be strategic about this. One wrong move and it could alle crashing down.


    ¡°Dr. Parker¡¯s jaw tightened. ¡°And what about Ivy? She¡¯s been snooping around too muchtely. If she gets too close to the truth¡­¡±


    ¡°She won¡¯t,¡± she interrupted, her tone dismissive. ¡°I¡¯ll handle Ivy. You just focus on taking care of Ryan-and Kendrick.¡±


    A silence stretched between them, thick with unspoken tension.¡±You¡¯d better be right,¡± Dr. Parker finally said, his voice low and threatening.


    ¡°Because if this goes wrong, it¡¯s both of our heads on the line.¡± Trust me, Parker,¡± she said with a smirk. ¡°I always get what I want.¡±


    Back in Ryan¡¯s room, Ivy sat by her brother¡¯s bedside, holding his hand as she whispered words of encouragement. Luca stood by the window, his gaze distant as he watched the world outside, his thoughts on the conversation he had just had with Ivy.


    Suddenly, Ryan¡¯s hand twitched in Ivy¡¯s grasp, a faint groan escaping his lips. Ivy¡¯s heart leaped into her throat as she leaned closer. ¡°Ryan? Can you hear me?¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes fluttered open, his gaze unfocused and groggy.


    ¡°Iris he mumbled, his voice hoarse.


    Ivy¡¯s eyes filled with tears of relief. Ivy¡¯s voice trembled. ¡°You¡¯re okay, Ryan. You¡¯re safe.¡±Luca turned from the window, his eyes widening in shock as he saw Ryan waking.


    He quickly moved to the other side of the bed, his hand resting on Ryan¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Take it easy, man,¡± he said gently. ¡°You¡¯ve been through a lot.¡±Ryan blinked

 Chapter 76

    Irisy in the bed, the dim light casting eerie shadows on the walls, deepening the sense of istion that had be her constantpanion.


    Her body, weakened by the confinement and the minimal rations she was given, felt heavy and unresponsive. The baby within her moved slightly, a faint reminder of life, but even that smallfort was overshadowed by the relentless despair gnawing at her soul.


    The single hand that was free from the restraints rested limply by her side, a minor concession that allowed her some semnce of humanity in this hellish prison.


    The other hand was tied securely to the bed frame, the rough rope biting into her skin whenever she tried to shift even slightly.


    The door creaked open, a sound that usually signaled the arrival of her captors or the cold nurse, but this time, it was different.


    Iris was only half aware of the intrusion, her exhaustion weighing down her eyelids as she drifted in and out of a restless sleep.


    A figure moved silently into the room, his footsteps muffled against the cold, hard floor.


    It was one of the guards, his hulking presence casting a dark shadow over Iris as he approached the bed.


    She stirred slightly, her body instinctively tensing as she felt the unnatural closeness of another human being.


    But before she could fully rouse herself, the guard was upon her, his rough hand mping down over her mouth to stifle any cries for help.


    Iris¡¯s eyes snapped open, panic surging through her like a jolt of electricity. She tried to scream, but the sound was smothered by the guard¡¯s filthy hand.


    Her free hand shot up, wing at his arm, but her strength was no match for his brute force.¡±Shh, don¡¯t fight it,¡± the guard hissed, his voice thick with malice.


    ¡°It¡¯ll be over soon enough.¡±Terror flooded Iris¡¯s veins as she realized what he intended to do. She thrashed wildly, her bound limbs hindering her attempts to escape.


    Desperation gave her strength, and she managed to twist her head just enough to sink her teeth into the guard¡¯s hand.


    He yelped in pain, jerking his hand away and ring down at her with murderous rage.


    ¡°You little bitch!¡± he spat, and without warning, his hand came down hard across her face.


    The p reverberated through Iris¡¯s skull, her vision blurring as pain exploded across her cheek. The force of the blow sent her head whipping to the side, and for a moment, she was too stunned to react.


    But then, as the sting of the p faded, it was reced by a cold, creeping dread that seeped into her bones


    . Just as the guard loomed over her again, ready to resume his assault, the door burst open. The other guards rushed in, their faces twisted with a mixture of confusion and anger. The leader of the group stepped forward, his eyes narrowing as he took in the scene.


    ¡°What the hell are you doing?¡± the leader demanded, his voice a dangerous growl.


    The guard who had attacked Iris froze, his aggression momentarily stilled by the presence of his superiors. He tried to stammer out an excuse, but the leader cut him off with a sharp gesture


    .¡±Get him out of here,¡± the leader ordered, his tone leaving no room for argument.


    ¡°Now.¡±Two of the other guards grabbed the offending man, dragging him out of the room as he struggled and protested.


    The leader watched them go, his expression hard as stone, before turning his attention back to Iris.


    She was curled up on the bed, her body trembling uncontrobly as tears streamed down her face. The spot where her head had been resting was damp with her tears, the bedding soaked with the evidence of her fear.


    The leader¡¯s eyes flickered with something almost akin to pity, but it was gone in an instant, reced by the cold detachment that had kept him alive in this line of work.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be safe now,¡± the leader said gruffly, though the words rang hollow in the heavy silence of the room.


    Without waiting for a response, he turned and left, the door clicking shut behind him.


    Alone once more, Iris let out a choked sob, her entire body quaking with the force of her emotions.


    She curled up tighter, clutching her free hand to her chest as if it could somehow shield her from the horrors of this ce.


    Her head throbbed where the guard had struck her, but the physical pain was nothingpared to the anguish that wed at her heart


    . As shey there, the room spinning around her, something strange began to happen.


    shes of images flickered behind her closed eyelids-disjointed, fragmented memories that didn¡¯t quite make sense.


    A man¡¯s face, his features blurred and indistinct, hovered in her mind¡¯s eye, and then a woman, her voice soft andforting, calling Iris¡¯s name. Iris¡­ Iris¡­


    The voice was familiar, like a half-remembered dream, but no matter how hard she tried, she couldn¡¯t ce it.


    The images came and went, like the flicker of an old film reel, each one more elusive than thest. The man¡¯s face appeared again, this time with a tender smile, but it faded before she could grasp its significance


    . Iris mped her free hand over her ears as if she could block out the relentless assault of her mind. She squeezed her eyes shut, willing the images to stop, but they persisted, a cruel reminder of the life she couldn¡¯t remember.


    ¡°Mum¡­ Mum, is that you?¡± she whispered, her voice cracking under the weight of her despair. But the only response was the hollow echo of her voice in the empty room.


    Eventually, exhaustion overtook her, and she slipped into a fitful sleep, the images still haunting her even in her dreams.


    The man¡¯s face, the woman¡¯s voice, they were always there, just out of reach, taunting her with the memories she had lost.


    When Iris awoke, it was with a start, her heart racing as thest remnants of the dream clung to her consciousness. The room was just as cold and dark as it had been before, but something had changed within her.


    The images, the voices-she couldn¡¯t ignore them anymore. They were pieces of a puzzle, fragments of a life she had once known, and she was determined to put them together.


    She sat up as much as her restraints would allow, her mind buzzing with a newfound rity.


    Who were the people in her memories? And why were they so important? She needed answers, but first, she needed to survive long enough to find them.


    Her hand absently traced the outline of her swollen belly, the only thing anchoring her to reality. The baby was a part of her-someone she had to protect at all costs.


    The thought gave her strength, and she resolved to be more vignt, more cautious. She couldn¡¯t afford to make any more mistakes.


    A few hourster, the door opened again, and the nurse entered, her expression as indifferent as ever.


    She approached Iris with the same mechanical efficiency, checking her vitals and ensuring the baby was healthy. But this time, Iris was watching her closely, looking for any sign, any clue that might help her understand what was happening to her


    .¡±You¡¯re awake,¡± the nurse remarked, her tone t. ¡°How are you feeling?¡±Iris¡¯s voice was stronger than before, the fear reced by a steely resolve.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± she replied, her eyes boring into the nurse¡¯s.


    ¡°Who am I? Why can¡¯t I remember anything?¡±


    The nurse didn¡¯t meet her gaze, busying herself with adjusting the bedding. ¡°I told you before, it¡¯s better not to remember,¡± she said curtly. ¡°Just focus on keeping yourself and your baby alive.¡±


    Iris clenched her fists, frustration bubbling up inside her. ¡°You keep saying that,¡± she snapped. ¡°But I need to know. Who¡¯s doing this to me? What do they want?¡±


    The nurse hesitated, a flicker of something, guilt, perhaps?-crossing her features. But it was gone as quickly as it had appeared. ¡°It¡¯s not my ce to say,¡± she muttered, turning away. ¡±


    Just stay quiet and do as you¡¯re told. That¡¯s the only way you¡¯ll survive.¡±As the nurse moved to leave, Iris called after her, desperationcing her voice. ¡°Please, just tell me one thing. Who are the people in my memories? The man, the woman-who are they?¡±


    The nurse paused at the door, her hand on the handle. For a moment, Iris thought she might answer, but then she shook her head, her expression hardening.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Forget them,¡± she said coldly. ¡°They don¡¯t matter anymore.¡±With that, the nurse exited the room, leaving Iris once again with more questions than answers.


    The silence pressed down on her, suffocating and relentless. But Iris wasn¡¯t about to give up.


    She knew she needed to be strong, for herself and her unborn child. She didn¡¯t know how long she had been there or how much longer she would have to endure, but she wasn¡¯t going to let them break her.


    Hours blurred into days as Irisy in the darkened room, her body weak but her mind growing sharper with each passing moment. She was determined to figure out a way to escape, to outsmart her captors and find her way back to freedom-whatever that meant for her now.


    One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a dull orange glow through the window, Iris heard the faint sound of voices outside her door.


    She strained her ears, trying to catch snippets of the conversation, her heart pounding in her chest.


    ¡°She¡¯s getting weaker,¡± a man¡¯s voice said, low and rough.¡±That¡¯s not our problem,¡± another voice replied, this one more authoritative.


    ¡°We were given orders to keep her alive, nothing more. Just make sure she doesn¡¯t die before they¡¯re ready for her.¡±Iris¡¯s blood ran cold at their words. They¡¯re ready for her. What did that mean? What were they nning to do to her? Fear wed at her insides, but she forced herself to stay calm, to listen closely.

 Chapter 77

    Luca stared at his phone, disbelief washing over him as he read the message from one of the employees at Kendrick Enterprises.


    Be¡¯s presence at the office, along with a group of new faces iming authority, had sent a shockwave through thepany.


    His fingers tightened around the phone as he considered his next move.


    ¡°Something¡¯s not right,¡± Luca muttered to himself.


    He nced at the clock on the wall. It waste, but this couldn¡¯t wait. Grabbing his keys, he headed out the door, determined to get to the bottom of whatever was happening at the office.


    As Luca drove through the quiet streets, his mind raced with questions.


    How had Be gained control so quickly?


    And why hadn¡¯t she visited Ryan in the hospital?


    The pieces didn¡¯t add up, and Luca felt a gnawing unease in his gut.


    When he arrived at Kendrick Enterprises, the building was still lit up, a stark contrast to thete hour.


    Luca¡¯s footsteps echoed in the empty lobby as he made his way to the elevator, his thoughts swirling.


    He had a bad feeling about what he was about to find.


    The elevator doors opened to the executive floor, and Luca¡¯s heart sank as he stepped out.


    The atmosphere was different, colder as if the very air had changed. He walked down the corridor toward Mr. Kendrick¡¯s office, the unease growing stronger with each step


    . When he reached the office, the door was slightly ajar.


    Luca hesitated for a moment before pushing it open.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    The sight that greeted him stopped him in his tracks.


    Be was sittingfortably in Mr. Kendrick¡¯s chair, her feet propped up on the desk as if she owned the ce.


    She was dressed in a sharp, tailored suit, exuding an air of confidence and authority that made Luca¡¯s blood boil.


    ¡°Be?¡± Luca¡¯s voice was incredulous, his mind struggling to process what he was seeing.


    ¡°What the hell are you doing here?¡±Be looked up from the papers she was reviewing, a smirk ying on her lips.


    ¡°Ah, Luca. I was wondering when you¡¯d show up.¡±Luca¡¯s eyes narrowed.


    ¡°What are you doing in Mr. Kendrick¡¯s office? And what is the news about new people here, iming they¡¯re in charge?¡±


    Be leaned back in the chair, her smirk widening into a full-blown grin.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious? I¡¯m taking over. The Kendrick Empire now belongs to me and my brother, of course.¡±


    Luca¡¯s mind reeled. ¡°Taking over? Are you out of your mind? You have no right¡­..¡±


    ¡°No right?¡± Be interrupted,ughing softly. ¡°Oh, Luca, you¡¯re so naive.


    Haven¡¯t you figured it out by now? Ryan¡¯s in the hospital, the old man will die soon, and the rest of the family is too distracted with their problems to stop me.


    Thispany is mine.¡±Luca took a step closer, his anger simmering beneath the surface.


    ¡°Ryan trusted you, and this is how you repay him? By swooping in like a vulture and taking what doesn¡¯t belong to you?¡±


    Be¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°Don¡¯t lecture me, Luca. This is business. And Ryan? He was never going to be a true leader. He¡¯s weak, distracted by his yboy lifestyle. I¡¯m doing what needs to be done.¡±


    Luca¡¯s fists clenched at his sides. ¡°You¡¯re not taking over anything. The Kendrick Empire belongs to the Kendricks, not you and your brother.¡±


    Be¡¯s smile returned, but this time it was cold, devoid of any warmth. ¡°We¡¯ll see about that.


    The board is already on my side. It¡¯s only a matter of time before the name ¡®Kendrick¡¯ is a distant memory.


    We¡¯re renaming thepany, restructuring everything. And there¡¯s nothing you can do to stop it.¡±Luca¡¯s anger red, but he forced himself to stay calm.


    He knew he had to keep his emotions in check if he was going to get through this.


    ¡°You¡¯re making a big mistake, Be. You think you¡¯re in control, but this isn¡¯t over.


    The Kendricks won¡¯t go down without a fight.¡±


    Be stood up, walking around the desk until she was face to face with Luca.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m counting on that,¡± she said, her voice dripping with malice. ¡°But trust me, Luca, by the time I¡¯m done, there won¡¯t be anything left to fight for.¡±


    Luca held her gaze, refusing to back down. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure Ivy knows what you¡¯re nning. She won¡¯t let you destroy everything her family built.¡±


    Be¡¯s eyes shed with annoyance. ¡°Ivy? That little fashion-obsessed brat? She¡¯s nothingpared to me.


    By the time she realizes what¡¯s happening, it¡¯ll be toote.¡±


    Without another word, Luca turned on his heel and stormed out of the office, his mind racing.


    He had to warn Ivy and figure out a way to stop Be before it was toote.


    Luca¡¯s heart pounded as he dialed Ivy¡¯s number, his hands shaking slightly.


    He needed to keep his cool, but the urgency of the situation made it difficult.


    The phone rang twice before Ivy answered, her voiceced with concern.


    ¡°Luca? What¡¯s wrong? It¡¯ste.¡±


    ¡°Ivy, we have a problem,¡± Luca said, trying to keep his voice steady. ¡°I just got back from the office. Be is there, and she¡¯s taken over. She and her brother are iming they¡¯re in charge now.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Ivy¡¯s voice was filled with disbelief. ¡°That can¡¯t be true. Be wouldn¡¯t do that, she can¡¯t do that!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s doing it,¡± Luca said firmly. ¡°She¡¯s already got the board on her side, and she¡¯s nning on renaming thepany. She¡¯s going to change everything, Ivy. We can¡¯t let her get away with this.¡±


    There was a long pause on the other end of the line as Ivy processed what Luca had just told her. When she spoke again, her voice was cold and determined. ¡°We need to stop her. If she gets control of thepany, everything our father built will be destroyed.¡±Luca nodded, even though Ivy couldn¡¯t see him.


    ¡°I know. We need to act fast. We have to find a way to turn the board against her and get thepany back under Kendrick¡¯s control.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll talk to someone,¡± Ivy said, her mind already working on a n.


    ¡°We¡¯ll figure out how to neutralize Be¡¯s influence. She won¡¯t get away with this, Luca. Not on my watch.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Luca said, feeling a surge of relief that Ivy was on board.


    ¡°But be careful, Ivy. Be isn¡¯t ying games. She¡¯s ruthless, and she¡¯ll do whatever it takes to win.


    ¡°I¡¯m aware of that,¡± Ivy said, her voice hardening. ¡°But she¡¯s underestimating me-and that¡¯s her biggest mistake.¡±


    As Luca ended the call, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. He knew the battle ahead would be difficult, but he had faith in Ivy.


    Together, they would find a way to stop Be and save Kendrick¡¯s legacy. But as he stared out at the city lights from his car, a nagging doubt crept into his mind.


    Be was dangerous, and she had already made her move. Could they stop her before it was toote?


    The next morning, Ivy met Luca at a secluded cafe on the outskirts of the city. The atmosphere was tense as they sat down, each of them aware of the gravity of the situation.


    ¡°I spoke to a few board members this morning,¡± Ivy began, her voice low. ¡°Some of them are already wavering in their support for Be, but they¡¯re scared. They think she has more power than she does.¡±


    ¡°Fear is a powerful weapon,¡± Luca said, his brow furrowed in thought. ¡°Be¡¯s using it to her advantage, and she¡¯s ying on their insecurities.


    If we want to turn them against her, we need to show them that siding with the Kendricks is the safer bet.¡±


    ¡°We need leverage,¡± Luca added. ¡°Something that will make the board question their loyalty to Be. If we can find proof that she¡¯s not as invincible as she seems, we can start to turn the tide.¡±Ivy nodded.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about that. There¡¯s something off about how quickly Be¡¯s taken control. It¡¯s almost as if she was waiting for this opportunity like she knew it wasing.¡± Luca leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. ¡°Are you suggesting she had inside information? That someone on the inside helped her?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s possible,¡± Ivy said cautiously. ¡°I don¡¯t have any solid proof yet, but I¡¯m going to dig deeper. If we can find out who¡¯s been feeding her information, we can expose them-and that could be the leverage we need.¡±Luca frowned, his mind racing.


    ¡°But what if she¡¯s been nning this for a long time? If she¡¯s been working behind the scenes,ying the groundwork for her takeover, we might be toote to stop her.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Ivy said firmly. ¡°It¡¯s never toote. We just need to be smart about this. Be is cunning, but she¡¯s also arrogant. She thinks she¡¯s won, but that¡¯s when people make mistakes. We need to find those mistakes and exploit them.¡±They both continued to strategize, their minds working overtime as they considered their options. Every move they made from this point on would be crucial, and they couldn¡¯t afford any missteps.


    After an hour of intense discussion, they finally had a n. It wasn¡¯t foolproof, but it was the best they coulde up with.

 Chapter 78

    The evening sky was painted in hues of deep orange and crimson, thest rays of sunlight filtering through the blinds of Ivy¡¯s apartment.


    The room was quiet, save for the soft ticking of the clock on the wall. Ivy sat at her desk, surrounded by a pile of documents, herptop screen disying the encrypted files she had been working on for hours.


    Her mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, the events of the past few weeks ying on a continuous loop. The treachery she had uncovered, the lies and deceit that surrounded her-it was alling to a head, and now Luca had just informed her of Be¡¯s ims on thepany.


    She knew that if she wanted to survive, if she wanted to protect what was rightfully hers, she had to unmask the enemy, and as it stood, there were too many enemies.


    The sound of the doorbell snapped her out of her thoughts. Ivy hesitated for a moment, her hand hovering over the mouse. She quickly saved the files before closing herptop and walking toward the door.


    She peeked through the peephole and, seeing Luca, let out a breath she hadn¡¯t realized she was holding.


    She opened the door, forcing a smile as Luca stepped inside. His eyes immediately locked onto hers, concern etched into his features.


    ¡°Ivy,¡± he began, his voice soft but firm. ¡°We need to talk.¡±


    Ivy nodded, closing the door behind him. ¡°I know. There¡¯s so much going on, Luca. I don¡¯t even know where to start.¡±


    Luca guided her to the couch, his hand gently squeezing hers.


    ¡°Let¡¯s start with what you¡¯ve found,¡± she said, settling beside him ¡°You said you overheard Be and her allies. What else did you uncover?¡±


    Luca took a deep breath, his mind racing as he recalled the details.


    ¡°Be is after everything, Ivy. Thepany, the money, the power-she wants it all. And she¡¯s not working alone. She¡¯s in league with someone, maybe more than one person, who¡¯s helping her. But that¡¯s not the worst part.¡±


    Luca¡¯s expression darkened, his eyes narrowing. ¡°What is?¡± Ivy asked.


    ¡°Your mother,¡± Luca whispered, her voice barely audible. ¡°She¡¯s involved too. I don¡¯t know the full extent, but I¡¯ve seen her meeting with Dr. Parker. They¡¯re nning something, something that could destroy everything. ¡°Ivy¡¯s grip on his hand tightened, her jaw clenching as she processed his words.


    ¡°My mum¡­ and Dr. Parker?¡± she asked disbelief in her voice.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve seen them together more than once,¡± Luca said, his voice trembling slightly. ¡°And I¡¯ve heard things, ivy.


    Things that make me think they¡¯re not just allies-they¡¯re lovers. This goes deeper than I ever imagined.¡±Ivy leaned back against the couch, rubbing a hand over her face.


    ¡°This is worse than I thought,¡± he muttered. ¡°We need to act fast, Ivy. We can¡¯t let them get away with this.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ivy agreed, her resolve hardening. ¡°But we can¡¯t just rush in without a n. We need to be smart about this, gather as much evidence as we can, and expose them for who they are.¡±


    Luca looked at her, admiration shining in his eyes. ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± he said. ¡°But we can¡¯t do this alone. We need allies, people we can trust.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about that,¡± Ivy replied a glint of determination in her eyes. ¡°There are a few board members who might be willing to help, but we need to approach them carefully. If they¡¯re already in Be¡¯s pocket, we could be walking into a trap.¡±Luca nodded, his mind already working through the possibilities.


    ¡°I can reach out to some of my contacts,¡± he offered. ¡°People who have connections within thepany, who might know more about what¡¯s going on behind the scenes.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Ivy said, her voice firm. ¡°We need all the help we can get. But we also need to keep this quiet. If Be or my mother catch wind of what we¡¯re doing, it could all fall apart.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll be careful,¡± Luca assured her. ¡°But we need to move quickly. Time is not on our side.¡±Ivy stood, pacing the room as she thought through their next steps. ¡°I¡¯ve already started gathering some evidence,¡± she said, gesturing to the pile of documents on her desk.


    ¡°But it¡¯s not enough. We need something concrete, something that will prove beyond a doubt what they¡¯re up to.¡±Luca watched her, his eyes following her movements. ¡°We¡¯ll find it,¡± he said, his voice filled with determination.


    ¡°But Ivy, there¡¯s something you need to know.¡±She stopped pacing and turned to face him, a sense of dread creeping up her spine. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s someone else involved,¡± Luca said, his expression grim. ¡°Someone who¡¯s been watching you, tracking your every move.¡±Ivy¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know yet,¡± Luca admitted, frustration evident in his voice. ¡°But I¡¯ve noticed things-little things that don¡¯t add up.


    Someone¡¯s been tailing you, Ivy. They¡¯re good, but I¡¯ve caught glimpses. It¡¯s not just Be and your mother. There¡¯s another yer in this game, and they¡¯re dangerous.¡±Ivy felt a chill run down her spine. ¡°Why would someone be following me? What do they want?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Luca said, shaking his head. ¡°But whoever it is, they¡¯re not on our side. We need to be even more cautious than we thought.¡±Ivy¡¯s mind raced, the pieces of the puzzle shifting and realigning in new and terrifying ways.


    The stakes were higher than she had realized, and the enemies were more numerous and insidious.¡±We can¡¯t afford any mistakes,¡± she said, her voice steely. ¡°We need to find out who¡¯s behind this and take them down before they take us out.¡±Luca nodded, his expression resolute. ¡°I¡¯m with you, Ivy. Whatever it takes, we¡¯ll get through this.¡±


    Later that day¡­¡­¡­


    The tension in the Kendrick mansion was palpable as Ivy paced back and forth in her bedroom, her mind swirling with thoughts of betrayal, lies, and revenge.


    The events of the past few weeks had shattered her trust in everyone around her, leaving her feeling vulnerable and exposed.


    But that vulnerability had quickly turned into a burning desire for revenge-especially against those she once considered family.


    Ivy¡¯s phone buzzed on the dresser, pulling her out of her thoughts. She nced at the screen and saw a message from an unknown number.


    Hesitant, she opened it, her heart pounding as she read the words:This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Meet me in the library. We need to talk about Ryan.


    ¡°The message was simple, but it sent a chill down Ivy¡¯s spine. She knew she couldn¡¯t trust anyone, but the mention of her brother¡¯s name piqued her curiosity.


    What could this person possibly want with Ryan? And more importantly, what did they know?


    Without wasting another moment, Ivy grabbed her coat and slipped out of her room, making her way to the library.


    The mansion was eerily quiet, the usual bustle of servants and family members absent.


    As she descended the grand staircase, her mind raced with possibilities-could it be another attempt to manipte her? Or was there finally someone on her side? When she reached the library, she hesitated for a moment before pushing the heavy doors open.


    The room was dimly lit, the only lighting from the flickering mes in the firece.


    Ivy¡¯s eyes quickly scanned the room, and there, standing by the bookshelf, was thest person she expected to see.


    ¡°Luca?¡± she said, her voice filled with surprise.


    Luca turned to face her, his expression unreadable. ¡°Ivy,¡± he greeted her, his voice calm but serious. ¡°I¡¯m d you came.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Ivy asked, stepping closer but keeping her guard up. ¡°What is this about ?¡±Luca¡¯s gaze softened slightly as he gestured for her to sit down. ¡°We need to talk,¡± he said, ignoring her question for the moment.


    ¡°There¡¯s something you need to know-something that¡¯s been kept from you for far too long.¡±Ivy narrowed her eyes, her suspicion growing. ¡°What are you talking about, Luca? If this is some kind of game-¡± It¡¯s not a game,¡± Luca interrupted his tone firm. ¡°It¡¯s about your family, Ivy.


    And it¡¯s about the truth.¡±Ivy¡¯s heart skipped a beat at the mention of her family. She had always suspected that there were secrets hidden within the walls of the Kendrick mansion, but she had never imagined the depth of the deception.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Luca took a deep breath as if bracing himself for what he was about to reveal.

 Chapter 79

    The crisp morning air clung to the walls of the Kendrick mansion, its chill matching the tension that had settled over the household.


    Ivy paced in the library, her fingers drumming anxiously against the ornate mahogany table.


    The events of the previous night had left her shaken, but there was no time to dwell on the revtions about Victor.


    There were other battles to fight, and a new storm was brewing on the horizon, one that threatened not just her family but the entire city.


    Luca entered the room, his expression grave as he approached her. ¡°Ivy, you need to see this,¡± he said, holding out a tablet.


    Ivy took the tablet from him, her eyes scanning the headline that red across the screen.


    ¡°Kendrick Enterprises Linked to Major Political Scandal: Corruption and Conspiracy Unveiled.¡±


    Her heart sank as she read the details of the article. It alleged that Kendrick Enterprises had been involved in illegal dealings with several high-ranking government officials, including bribery, fraud, and the maniption of contracts for personal gain.


    The report imed that these actions had been orchestrated by none other than Mr. Kendrick himself, along with several of his most trusted advisors.


    ¡°This¡­ this can¡¯t be true,¡± Ivy whispered, her voice shaking.


    ¡°My father would never¡­¡±Luca ced a reassuring hand on her shoulder. ¡°I don¡¯t believe it either, but we have to be careful.


    This could be part of the enemy¡¯s n to destroy your family¡¯s reputation and bring down the entire empire.


    ¡°Ivy shook her head, her thoughts racing. ¡°But why? What would they gain from this?¡±


    ¡°They want to weaken you, to strip away everything your family has built,¡± Luca replied.


    ¡°And if they can use public opinion to turn the city against you, it makes it that much easier for them to take control.


    ¡°Ivy clenched her fists, her anger boiling over. ¡°We can¡¯t let them get away with this. We have to fight back and expose the truth.¡±


    ¡°We will,¡± Luca assured her. ¡°But we need to tread carefully. If the public believes these usations, it could ruin everything your father has worked for.


    And we still don¡¯t know who¡¯s behind this leak.¡±Ivy frowned, her mind racing. ¡°Could it be Be? Is she the one pulling the strings?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s possible,¡± Luca said, nodding. ¡°But he wouldn¡¯t be working alone. Someone on the inside must be feeding him information, someone with ess to your father¡¯s dealings.¡±


    The thought sent a shiver down Ivy¡¯s spine. ¡°A traitor¡­ someone close to us.¡±Yes,¡± Luca confirmed. ¡°And until we figure out who it is, we need to keep this investigation as quiet as possible.¡±Ivy nodded, her resolve hardening.


    ¡°Then we start by finding out where these usations areing from. We need to dig into the people mentioned in the article, the officials supposedly involved. If we can uncover the truth, we can clear my father¡¯s name.


    ¡°Luca¡¯s expression was serious as he met her gaze. ¡°This won¡¯t be easy, Ivy. Whoever is behind this has covered their tracks well.


    We¡¯ll need to be strategic, and we can¡¯t trust anyone outside of our inner circle.¡±


    ¡°I understand,¡± Ivy replied, her voice firm.


    ¡°But we have no choice. We can¡¯t let them destroy us.¡±Luca nodded, his determination matching hers.


    ¡°I¡¯ll start making calls, see what I can dig up on the officials mentioned in the article. In the meantime, you should speak with your father. We need to know exactly what we¡¯re dealing with.¡±


    Ivy hesitated, her mind racing with the implications of what she was about to do. She had always trusted her father and believed in his integrity.


    But now, with these usations hanging over their heads, she wasn¡¯t sure what to believe.


    Taking a deep breath, she steeled herself for the conversation ahead. ¡°I¡¯ll talk to him. But Luca¡­ if it turns out that some of this is true¡­¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll cross that bridge when we get to it,¡± Luca said gently. ¡°For now, let¡¯s focus on finding the truth.¡±


    With a nod, Ivy left the library and made her way to the hospital.


    She arrived there, the weight of the situation pressing down on her shoulders.


    When she reached his room, she paused outside the door, gathering her thoughts before going in.


    ¡°Come in,¡± Mr. Kendrick¡¯s voice called from inside, as he already saw her.


    Ivy pushed open the door and stepped into the room. Her father was on his bed, his brow furrowed as he pored over a stack of papers. He looked up as she entered, his expression softening slightly.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°Ivy, how are you doing today?¡± he asked, setting the papers aside.


    Ivy approached the desk, her heart pounding in her chest. ¡°Dad, I hope you are getting better, we need to talk. There¡¯s something you need to know.¡±


    Mr. Kendrick¡¯s expression grew concerned as he noticed the seriousness in her tone. ¡°What is it, Ivy? What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Taking a deep breath, Ivy held out the tablet to him, the article still disyed on the screen.


    ¡°This. It¡¯s all over the news.¡±


    Mr. Kendrick took the tablet from her, his eyes narrowing as he read the headline.


    His expression remained calm as he scrolled through the article, but Ivy could see the tension building in his jaw.


    When he finished, he set the tablet down and looked up at her. ¡°This is serious,¡± he said, his voice measured. ¡°But it¡¯s not unexpected.¡±


    Ivy blinked in surprise. ¡°You knew this wasing?¡±Mr. Kendrick nodded slowly. ¡°I¡¯ve been aware of the possibility for some time. There are people out there who would love nothing more than to see Kendrick Enterprises fall.


    They¡¯ve been waiting for the right moment to strike.¡±


    ¡°Dad, they¡¯re using you of corruption, of working with crooked officials,¡± Ivy said, her voice rising in frustration. ¡°How can you be so calm about this?¡±Mr. Kendrick sighed, leaning back in the hospital bed.


    ¡°Because I know the truth, Ivy. I know that I¡¯ve done nothing wrong. Yes, I¡¯ve had dealings with government officials, but everything has been above board.


    These usations are baseless, designed to smear my name and weaken ourpany.¡±


    ¡°Then who¡¯s behind this?¡± Ivy demanded. ¡°Who would go to such lengths to destroy us?¡±Mr. Kendrick¡¯s gaze grew distant as if he were recalling something from the past.


    ¡°There are many who have tried to take us down over the years. Competitors, rivals, enemies of our family¡­ But there¡¯s one name that stands out above the rest.¡±Who?¡± Ivy pressed, her heart pounding with anticipation.


    ¡°Victor Volkov,¡± Mr. Kendrick said, his voice tinged with bitterness. ¡°He¡¯s a powerful oligarch from Russia, with ties to organized crime and the dark underbelly of the political world.


    We crossed paths years ago, and he¡¯s held a grudge ever since. I¡¯ve always suspected that he woulde after us one day.¡±Ivy felt a chill run down her spine.


    ¡°Do you think he¡¯s the one behind this scandal?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s possible,¡± Mr. Kendrick replied. ¡°Victor is ruthless, and he has the resources to pull off something like this. If he¡¯s working with Victor¡¯s son, then we¡¯re dealing with a very dangerous alliance.


    ¡°Ivy¡¯s mind raced as she processed the information. ¡°But why now? Why would they strike at this moment?¡±


    ¡°Because we¡¯re vulnerable,¡± Mr. Kendrick said grimly.


    ¡°With Ryan still recovering, our attention is divided. They see this as their opportunity to strike while we¡¯re distracted.¡±Ivy clenched her fists, anger boiling inside her. ¡°We can¡¯t let them get away with this, Dad. We have to fight back.¡±


    ¡°We will,¡± Mr. Kendrick assured her. ¡°But we need to be smart about this. Victori is a master maniptor, and if we¡¯re not careful, he¡¯ll turn public opinion against us before we even have a chance to defend ourselves.


    ¡°Ivy nodded, her resolve hardening. ¡°Luca and I are already digging into the officials mentioned in the article. If we can find any evidence of their wrongdoing, we can use it to clear your name.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Mr. Kendrick said, his voice firm. ¡°We¡¯ll fight this with everything we have. But Ivy¡­ there¡¯s something else you need to know.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Ivy asked, her heart sinking at the gravity in her father¡¯s tone. Mr. Kendrick hesitated as if weighing his words carefully. ¡°There¡¯s more to our family¡¯s past than you realize. Secrets that I¡¯ve kept hidden, even from you and Ryan. If this scandal continues to unfold, those secrets maye to light.¡±Ivy stared at him, her mind reeling.


    ¡°What kind of secrets?¡±


    ¡°Things that I¡¯m not proud of,¡± Mr. Kendrick admitted, his voice heavy with regret. ¡°But they were necessary to protect our family, to ensure our survival in a world that is often ruthless and unforgiving.


    ¡°Dad, what are you saying?¡± Ivy asked, her voice trembling.¡±I¡¯m saying that if you continue down this path, you may uncover things that will change the way you see me, the way you see our family,¡± Mr. Kendrick said, his gaze intense.


    ¡°But you must be prepared for that. You must be prepared to face the truth, no matter how dark it may be.¡±Ivy felt a lump form in her throat. She had always admired her father and looked up to him as a man of integrity and strength. But now, with his words hanging in the air, she couldn¡¯t shake.

 Chapter 80

    Mrs. Rose paced outside Mr. Kendrick¡¯s hospital room, anxiety biting at her.


    She watched Ivy from a distance, her mind racing with everything that had been spiraling out of control since Ryan¡¯s ident.


    Be, of all people, was now iming to be in charge of the Kendrick empire.


    She couldn¡¯t believe it.


    The idea made her stomach churn with disgust.


    ¡°Ivy,¡± Mrs. Rose called out softly, gesturing for her daughter toe over.


    Ivy nced up from her tablet, hesitating for a moment, then followed her mother into the quiet hallway.


    ¡°What is it, Mom?¡± Ivy asked, her tone cautious.


    Mrs. Rose took a deep breath. ¡°I heard from the staff that Be is in thepany. She¡¯s been acting like she owns the ce. Is it true?¡±Ivy¡¯s face tightened. ¡°Yeah, Mom, it¡¯s true.


    She¡¯s in Dad¡¯s office as we speak. She and some new faces are practically running things now.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s heart sank. Betrayal burned through her chest. ¡°I knew she was ambitious, but this¡­ this is something else. How could she do this after everything I did for her?¡±


    ¡°I hope you haven¡¯t told your father about any of this?¡± Mrs. Rose¡¯s voice wavered, suddenly filled with panic.


    ¡°Not yet,¡± Ivy replied quickly. ¡°But I almost did.¡± She pulled out her tablet and handed it to her mother.


    ¡°I was going to show him this.¡±


    Mrs. Rose looked down at the screen. Her eyes widened as she scanned the headline:


    ¡°Kendrick Enterprises Linked to Major Political Scandal: Corruption and Conspiracy Unveiled.¡±


    ¡°What were you thinking, Ivy?¡± Mrs. Rose whispered harshly. ¡°You can¡¯t show this to your father. He¡¯s already dealing with so much. You know how fragile his health is.¡±


    ¡°I just thought he had a right to know,¡± Ivy mumbled, folding her arms defensively.


    ¡°And what would that aplish?¡± Mrs. Rose shot back, exasperated. ¡°It could kill him.¡±Mrs. Rose felt the weight of the betrayal presses down on her.


    Be had wormed her way into their lives and manipted everyone around her, and now she was after the entire empire.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Rage bubbled inside her. Without another word, she stormed down the hallway


    .¡±Mom, where are you going?¡± Ivy called out, her voice anxious.


    ¡°Stay here,¡± Mrs. Rose replied firmly. ¡°Look after your father and brother. I need to deal with this.¡±


    The drive to Kendrick Enterprises felt longer than ever. Mrs. Rose¡¯s knuckles whitened on the steering wheel as her thoughts raced. She had never felt so humiliated.


    After everything she had done for Be ¨C standing up for her when no one else would, ensuring she married Ryan ¨C and this was how she was repaid?


    Her fingers tightened as anger coursed through her. When she arrived at thepany, she didn¡¯t bother greeting anyone. She walked straight through the lobby, her heels clicking sharply against the marble floor.


    She knew exactly where she was going.


    As she reached Mr. Kendrick¡¯s office, tworge men stood in front of the door. They eyed her suspiciously as she approached.¡±Let me through,¡± Mrs. Rose demanded.


    ¡°Sorry, ma¡¯am, no one¡¯s allowed inside,¡± one of the men said, stepping in her path.


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s face twisted with fury. ¡°I don¡¯t care who you are. That¡¯s my husband¡¯s office, and I have every right to be in there!¡±


    The men exchanged nces, but Mrs. Rose wasn¡¯t in the mood to be stopped.


    She shoved past them with surprising force and stormed into the office.


    There, sittingfortably in Mr. Kendrick¡¯s leather chair, was Be. She was flipping through a stack of papers, her expression calm and collected, as if she owned the ce.


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s blood boiled. ¡°How dare you?¡±Be looked up slowly, her lips curling into a smug smile. ¡°Ah, Mrs. Rose, I was wondering when you¡¯d show up.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s voice trembled with rage. ¡°How dare youe into thispany and act like you own it? How dare you try to take what¡¯s not yours? After everything I¡¯ve done for you, this is how you repay me?¡±


    Be leaned back in the chair, a look of mock surprise on her face. ¡°Oh,e now, Mrs. Rose. Don¡¯t act like you didn¡¯t see thising. You made sure I ended up with Ryan, didn¡¯t you? But you were always so easy to manipte because you were so busy manipting everyone else.¡±


    ¡°You¡­ you don¡¯t belong here,¡± Mrs. Rose stammered, her chest heaving. ¡°You will pick up your things and get out of this office. Now.¡±


    Beughed, a cold, sharp sound that echoed through the room. She stood up and walked over to Mrs. Rose, her eyes glittering with amusement.


    ¡°You think you¡¯re still in control, don¡¯t you? Poor, naive Mrs. Rose.¡±Mrs. Rose took a step back, but Be moved closer, her voice dropping to a whisper.


    ¡°You¡¯d better ept defeat, or else¡­ well, let¡¯s just say your husband might find out about that little affair you¡¯ve been having with Dr. Parker.¡±


    Mrs. Rose froze, her heart pounding in her chest. Her eyes widened in horror.


    ¡°You¡­ you wouldn¡¯t.¡±


    Be smiled sweetly. ¡°Oh, I would.


    And it would be so much more fun if the world got to see the real you, don¡¯t you think? The faithful wife who¡¯s been cheating on her husband with his best friend? The mother who¡¯s been lying to her children for years? I wonder how Mr. Kendrick would react if he knew the truth¡­¡±


    Mrs. Rose tried to speak, but the words wouldn¡¯te. She stood there, trembling, her world crashing down around her. Be had herpletely cornered.


    ¡°You¡¯re going to leave quietly now,¡± Be said, her voice firm. ¡°And you¡¯re never going toe back. Thispany is mine now, and there¡¯s nothing you or anyone else can do about it.¡±She snapped her fingers, and the guards who had been standing outside entered the room.


    ¡°Escort Mrs. Rose out, please. And make sure she understands that she¡¯s no longer wee here.¡±


    The guards grabbed Mrs. Rose by the arms, but before they could lead her out, Be spoke onest time.¡±Oh, and Mrs. Rose,¡± Be called out, her voice dripping with malice. ¡°I¡¯ll be visiting Ryan soon. We¡¯ll make sure that the wedding still holds. I wouldn¡¯t want him to miss out on marrying me.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s heart sank as the guards led her away.


    She knew Be was serious. And for the first time in a long time, she had no idea what to do next.


    As she was dragged through the doors, Mrs. Rose¡¯s mind raced. If Be was willing to expose her affair with Dr. Parker, what else was she capable of?


    Could she be stopped, or had Be already won? Thest thing she heard before the doors closed behind her was Be¡¯sughter echoing through the office, a sound that sent chills down her spine.


    The game had changed, and Mrs. Rose knew she was dangerously close to losing everything.


    As Mrs. Rose stepped out into the cold night air, she pulled her phone out of her pocket. Her hands shook as she dialed a number she hadn¡¯t used in years.


    The phone rang once, twice, then a familiar voice answered on the other end.¡±It¡¯s me,¡± Mrs. Rose whispered. ¡°We need to talk. It¡¯s urgent.¡±

 Chapter 81

    Mrs. Rose stormed out of thepany, her heart racing, palms sweating, as the weight of the situation sank in.


    Be had caught herpletely off guard at thepany earlier, and now Ryan¡¯s health state was the final nail in the coffin.


    ¡°How did Be know about the affair with Parker?¡± That thought kept bouncing around her mind. Was it possible she had more dirt on her or was this just the tip of the iceberg? She clenched the steering wheel, driving back to the mansion.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Once inside, Mrs. Rose sank into a plush armchair, rubbing her temples, attempting to process everything.


    The shock of losing control over both her personal and professional life gnawed at her relentlessly. The affair with Parker was meant to be her secret, no one was supposed to find out.


    And now, everything was slipping out of her hands, and the worst part was that Be held all the cards.


    Meanwhile, at the hospital, Ryan stirred once more, slowly opening his eyes to see Ivy standing by his bedside. Confusion swirled in his mind.


    His memories were a blur, faces like distant shadows. But one name stood out from the fog-Iris.


    ¡°Iris¡­¡± he mumbled weakly, his voice raspy. ¡°Where is Iris?¡±Ivy¡¯s heart sank. ¡°Ryan, it¡¯s me, Ivy,¡± she said softly, trying to hold back her emotions.


    ¡°Your sister¡­¡±Ryan blinked, his face wrinkling in confusion. ¡°Iris¡­¡± he repeated, his voice a faint echo. It was clear he didn¡¯t recognize Ivy at all.


    Startled, Ivy called for the doctor, her voice shaky. Dr. Parker arrived within moments, and after a quick examination, he asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Mrs. Rose?¡±


    ¡°I called her,¡± Ivy replied, pacing the room anxiously. ¡°She¡¯ll be here any minute.¡±Dr. Parker¡¯s expression darkened, but he said nothing. Momentster, Mrs. Rose entered the room, her faceposed despite the internal turmoil she was experiencing.


    ¡°Ryan, sweetheart, how are you feeling?¡± Mrs. Rose¡¯s voice was sweet and calm, masking the chaos in her head. Ryan looked up at her, still confused.


    ¡°Who are you¡­?¡±


    ¡± it¡¯s me. Your mother. You¡¯re going to be alright,¡± she said, trying to reassure him.


    But his expression was still distant, like he couldn¡¯t piece together who she was. He turned his head, still searching.¡±Iris¡­¡± he muttered again.


    Just then, the door swung open, and Be strutted in, her eyes gleaming with purpose.


    ¡°Iris is right here,¡± Be dered, walking over to Ryan¡¯s side as if she had been there the whole time.


    She took his hand and gave it a soft squeeze. ¡°I¡¯m here, honey. Iris is here.¡±Ivy¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°What the hell are you doing, Be?¡± she spat, stepping toward her.


    ¡°That¡¯s not Iris, Ryan! Be¡¯s lying-¡± Oh, stop it, Ivy,¡± Be interrupted with a smirk. ¡°Ryan has been calling for Iris this whole time, and I¡¯m simply giving him what he needs.¡± She looked down at Ryan with a sharine smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m your wife, remember, darling? Iris Kendrick.¡±Ryan¡¯s face softened slightly at the sound of her voice, the confusion in his eyes dulling. ¡°Iris¡­¡± he murmured again as if trying to believe her.


    Mrs. Rose stood frozen, trying to maintain control over the rapidly deteriorating situation.


    Be had Ryan under her thumb, using his memory loss to her advantage. She knew it was a dangerous game Be was ying, but Mrs. Rose couldn¡¯t afford to expose the truth just yet.


    Ryan¡¯s grip on Be¡¯s hand tightened as he struggled to focus. ¡°You¡¯re¡­my wife?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, sweetheart,¡± Be purred, shooting a triumphant nce at Ivy.


    ¡°Your wife, Iris.¡±


    Mrs. Rose, sensing she was losing this battle, stepped forward. ¡°Ryan, honey, listen to me. This is Iris, your wife,¡± she said, emphasizing Be¡¯s lie to appease Be¡¯s threat. ¡°Ivy¡¯s just upset, that¡¯s all. But she¡¯lle around.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s face twisted in anger. ¡°Mum! What are you talking about? She¡¯s not Iris! You¡¯re ying along with this?¡±Mrs. Rose shot Ivy a warning look, silently urging her to y along.


    Ivy clenched her fists in frustration, but before she could protest further, Mrs. Rose grabbed her by the arm, pulling her to the side.


    ¡°We need to talk,¡± Mrs. Rose hissed through clenched teeth. ¡°Now.¡±Ivy reluctantly followed her mother out into the corridor. As soon as the door closed behind them, she exploded. ¡°What the hell is wrong with you? Why are you going along with Be¡¯s nonsense? She¡¯s trying to destroy us!¡±


    Mrs. Rose sighed, trying to maintain herposure. ¡°Ivy, you don¡¯t understand the situation. Be knows things¡­ things that could ruin us if they get out.¡±


    ¡°What things?¡± Ivy demanded, her voice rising.


    ¡°So, you¡¯re just going to let her manipte Ryan like this?!¡± Ivy fumed, her eyes zing with anger.


    ¡°We don¡¯t have a choice,¡± Mrs. Rose snapped, her voice cold. ¡°Right now, our priority is keeping the family together, keeping our secret buried. Do you understand?¡±Ivy¡¯s fists trembled at her sides.


    ¡°This is insane.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes softened for a moment. ¡°I know, darling. I know it¡¯s a lot to take in, but we have to be smart about this. We need to outsmart Be, not confront her head-on.¡±


    ¡°And how do you n to do that?¡± Ivy asked, her voice dripping with sarcasm.¡±I¡¯m working on it,¡± Mrs. Rose replied, ncing over her shoulder toward the hospital room. ¡°For now, we need to keep up appearances. Ryan believes she¡¯s Iris, and we have to y along until we figure out how to deal with this.¡±


    Ivy shook her head, disbelief flooding her mind. ¡°This is a disaster.¡±Inside the room, Be continued her charade, gently stroking Ryan¡¯s hand. ¡°I¡¯m so d you¡¯re awake, love. I¡¯ve missed you so much,¡± she said sweetly, through her eyes glinted with malice.


    Ryan stared up at her, his expression dazed. ¡°Iris¡­?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s me,¡± Be cooed, pressing a kiss to his forehead. ¡°We¡¯ve been through so much together, but now we can finally be happy.¡±Ryan¡¯s brow furrowed as if trying to remember. ¡°What¡­ happened to me?¡±


    ¡°You were in a car ident, darling,¡± Be replied smoothly. ¡°You were on your way to meet me. I was pregnant, and we were going to start a new life together.¡±


    ¡°Pregnant¡­?¡± Ryan¡¯s voice was weak, his memory faltering.¡±Yes, but don¡¯t worry,¡± Be said, her tone softening. ¡°We have everything we ever wanted. I¡¯ll take care of you.¡±As Be continued to weave her web of lies, Ivy and Mrs. Rose reentered the room, their expressions tense.¡±


    How¡¯s he doing?¡± Mrs. Rose asked, her voice carefully neutral.¡±He¡¯s recovering,¡± Be said with a fake smile. ¡°We¡¯re just catching up.¡±Ivy red at her, barely containing her rage. ¡°This isn¡¯t over,¡± she muttered under her breath.


    Mrs. Rose ced a hand on Ivy¡¯s arm, silently urging her to stay calm. But just as they were about to leave the room, Be¡¯s phone buzzed. She nced down at the screen and smirked.¡±Well, isn¡¯t this interesting¡­¡± Be said, her voiceced with intrigue.¡±What is it?¡± Ivy asked, her suspicion growing.


    Mrs. Rose and Ivy exchanged worried nces, knowing full well that whatever wasing next was bound to shake their already fragile world.

 Chapter 82

    Ryan blinked as hey in the hospital bed, still groggy from the medication and the ident. His head throbbed, and the unfamiliar faces around him seemed like ghosts from another life.


    The only name that rang clear in his muddled mind was ¡°Iris.¡± It was the name he clung to, the only tether in the sea of confusion.


    But as Be sat beside him, calling herself ¡°Iris,¡± he felt a strange dissonance. Still, he had no reason to doubt her-his memory was scattered like shattered ss.


    Be squeezed Ryan¡¯s hand, her eyes welling with practiced tears. ¡°Ryan, I know this is hard for you,¡± she began, her voice soft and trembling, ¡°but we¡¯ve been through so much together. I thought I¡¯d lose you after the ident¡­¡­ and I did lose something very precious to us.


    ¡°Ryan looked at her, his expression nk as he tried to process her words.


    His eyes flickered to her stomach. ¡°The¡­ baby?¡± he asked, his voice weak and hoarse. ¡°What happened to the baby?¡±


    Be sniffled, lowering her head in what appeared to be sorrow. ¡°It was the hardest thing I¡¯ve ever had to go through, Ryan,¡± she whispered, her voice barely audible as she dabbed at her tears with a tissue.


    As she began to speak again she wiped her tears that couldn¡¯t stop flowing, her eyes red. ¡°I was scared, Ryan. You were so focused on your career and your family. I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d want the baby.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s anger red. ¡°You thought I¡¯d abandon you? Our child?¡±


    Be looked away, ashamed. ¡°I didn¡¯t know what to do. I was alone and terrified.¡±Ryan took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing heart. ¡°What happened, Be? How did you lose the baby?¡±


    ¡°It was four months into the pregnancy,¡± Be began, her voice shaking. ¡°I started feeling sharp pains. I went to the hospital, but it was toote. The doctor said it was a miscarriage. and¡­ and I lost the baby. I lost our child. I was devastated.¡±


    Ryan felt a surge of guilt and sorrow.


    ¡°After the ident, I was under so much stress¡­ you were in aa¡­ I didn¡¯t know if you would survive. I felt so alone, Ryan¡¯s heart clenched as he saw the tears streaming down her face.


    He didn¡¯t know what to feel; he didn¡¯t even remember the child. But the sight of Be¡¯s grief twisted something inside him, making him feel guilty for hisck of connection.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m sorry,¡± he managed, struggling with the words. ¡°I should have been there for you.¡±


    Be quickly wiped her eyes, her voice gaining strength as she continued. ¡°It¡¯s not your fault, Ryan.


    You were in that horrible ident because you were rushing to see me. If it weren¡¯t for that other driver, none of this would¡¯ve happened.¡± She paused, her lips trembling again.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know how much I¡¯ve needed you.¡±Ryan¡¯s brows furrowed. ¡°I don¡¯t remember anything¡­ I can¡¯t remember you, the baby¡­ any of it. It¡¯s like my mind¡¯s been wiped clean.¡±


    Be leaned closer, taking his hand and gently rubbing it between hers. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m here, honey. I¡¯m going to help you remember. We¡¯ve been through so much together, and we¡¯ll get through this too. Just lean on me, and we¡¯ll make it.¡±


    Ryan stared at her, confusion still clouding his thoughts. ¡°But why¡­ why do I keep calling  Iris?¡± He hesitated as if expecting her to have the answers he desperately needed.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Be¡¯s eyes shed for a brief second before she forced another soft smile.


    ¡°Iris¡­ was a nickname you gave me,¡± she said sweetly, lying without missing a beat. ¡°You said it was because I was your light, like the goddess Iris in mythology-the one who carried messages between the gods and humans.¡±


    Ryan nodded slowly, the exnation soothing the lingering doubts in his mind. It made sense in a way, and he had no memories to contradict it.


    Just then, Ivy walked into the room, her eyes narrowing at the sight of Be seated sofortably by Ryan¡¯s side.


    She had overheard enough of the conversation to know what Be was doing. ¡°What¡¯s going on here?¡± Ivy asked, her tone sharp as she shot Be a pointed look.


    ¡°Be tensed but didn¡¯t look up. She continued holding Ryan¡¯s hand, her fingers wrapped around his possessively.


    ¡°We were just talking, Ivy. Ryan¡¯s starting to remember things.¡±


    Ivy folded her arms, ring at Be. ¡°Remembering what? More of your lies? Ryan, you need to be careful about who you trust right now.¡±


    Ryan looked between the two women, his mind spinning. He still felt so lost. ¡°I don¡¯t understand,¡± he muttered.


    Be leaned in closer, whispering in a voice meant only for Ryan.


    ¡°She¡¯s always had issues with me, Ryan. But I¡¯ve been patient. I know she cares about you, but sometimes she just doesn¡¯t understand how hard it¡¯s been for us.¡±


    ¡°Hard for us?¡± Ivy snapped, stepping closer to the bed. ¡°You mean hard for you, Be. You¡¯ve always been selfish. Everything is always about you.¡±Ryan winced at the tension, not knowing how to handle the confrontation.


    ¡°Please, I just need some peace. I¡¯m trying to remember¡­ but all I can think about is this name, Iris. And now Ivy telling me¡­¡±


    ¡°She isn¡¯t Iris¡± Ivy cut in, her voice growing more insistent. ¡°Ryan, listen to me. You¡¯ve been manipted by her from the start.


    She isn¡¯t who you think she is. The real Iris-¡± she stopped herself, unsure of how much to reveal.


    Be stood up abruptly, her eyes shing with anger. ¡°That¡¯s enough, Ivy!¡± she hissed, her voice low and dangerous. ¡°You¡¯ve been trying to tear us apart for years, but I¡¯m not going to let you. Ryan needs stability right now, and you¡¯re making everything worse.¡±


    Ivy scoffed, unfazed by Be¡¯s outburst. ¡°What Ryan needs is the truth. And he¡¯s going to get it, whether you like it or not.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s confusion deepened. He could sense the hostility between the two women, and it was tearing at the fragile trust he was trying to rebuild.


    ¡°Stop¡­ please,¡± he murmured, his head throbbing with the strain of trying to piece everything together.


    The door to the room swung open again, and Mrs. Rose walked in with Dr. Parker close behind. ¡°What¡¯s going on here?¡± she demanded, her eyes darting between her children and Be.


    ¡°Why are you both arguing in front of Ryan?¡±


    ¡°Ivy is just trying to cause trouble,¡± Be said smoothly, her voice regaining itsposure. ¡°But Ryan¡¯s doing better. We were just talking about¡­ the baby.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes widened, and she shot Be a warning look. ¡°Bel.., Iris this isn¡¯t the time to bring up such painful memories. Ryan is still recovering.¡±


    Ryan, sensing the tension in the room, looked up at his mother. ¡°Mom, what¡­ what happened?¡± His voice was desperate, pleading for rity. ¡°I can¡¯t remember anything, and I don¡¯t know what¡¯s real.¡±


    Mrs. Rose exchanged a nce with Dr. Parker before stepping closer to her son. ¡°Ryan, honey, you had an ident. You¡¯ve lost some of your memory because of it. But everything¡¯s going to be fine. You just need time to heal.¡±


    Ryan looked at her, frustration bubbling up inside him. ¡°But I keep hearing this name¡­ Iris. It¡¯s like it¡¯s the only thing that makes sense to me.¡±


    Be moved closer to Ryan again, her voice soft and soothing. ¡°That¡¯s because I¡¯m Iris, remember? I¡¯ve always been here for you.¡±Ivy, unable to take it any longer, clenched her fists and spat out, ¡°You¡¯re not Iris, Stop pretending!¡±


    Dr. Parker, sensing the growing tension, cleared his throat. ¡°Ryan, let¡¯s focus on your recovery for now. You¡¯ve been through a lot, and your memories will return in time.


    The most important thing is that you rest.¡±Ryan closed his eyes, his head pounding from the conflicting voices around him. He felt like he was being pulled in different directions, and none of it made sense.


    As the room fell into an uneasy silence, Be¡¯s phone buzzed in her pocket. She nced at it, her eyes widening at the message she received. Without saying a word, she stepped out of the room, leaving everyone staring after her.


    Mrs. Rose watched her go, her suspicion deepening. ¡°What was that about?¡± she muttered under her breath.


    Meanwhile, Ivy¡¯s gaze followed Be, her instincts telling her something wasn¡¯t right. ¡°She¡¯s hiding something,¡± Ivy whispered to herself. ¡°And I¡¯m going to find out what.¡±


    Outside in the hallway, Be nced at her phone again, reading the cryptic message.

 Chapter 83

    The door to Ivy¡¯s suite mmed shut behind her as Be followed her inside, her eyes glinting with cold determination.


    Ivy¡¯s heels clicked against the marble floor, her steps quicker than usual, her mind racing with frustration and disbelief at Be¡¯s audacity.


    She had barely made it halfway to the living room when Be¡¯s voice cut through the silence, sharp and mocking.


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to walk away from this conversation, Ivy,¡± Be hissed, her arms crossed over her chest. ¡°We need to talk.¡±Ivy turned on her heel, fury shing in her eyes.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to talk about, Be. I¡¯m done ying your little game.¡± Her voice was steady, but there was an underlying anger that simmered just beneath the surface.


    Be raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. ¡°Oh, I think there¡¯s plenty to talk about.


    You¡¯ll want to hear every word I have to say.¡±Ivy scoffed, folding her arms tightly across her chest. ¡°You¡¯re delusional if you think I¡¯m going to keep up with this charade any longer.


    ¡°Ryan already starting to question things, and it¡¯s only a matter of time before your lies catch up with you.¡±


    Be took a step closer, her eyes narrowing as she dropped her voice to a low, threatening tone.


    ¡°That¡¯s where you¡¯re wrong, Ivy. Do you think you can just expose me and walk away unscathed? Do you honestly believe I haven¡¯t prepared for that? If you even think about crossing me, I¡¯ll make sure your entire world crumbles.¡±


    Ivy tilted her head, unimpressed by the threat. ¡°What, you think you can scare me with empty threats? You¡¯re just a desperate, conniving¡­.¡±


    ¡°You listen to me,¡± Be snapped, cutting Ivy off mid-sentence. She stepped forward, her face inches away from Ivy¡¯s, her voice dripping with venom. ¡°I know more about your father than you think. All the dirty little secrets he¡¯s been hiding, the deals he¡¯s made, the drugs that have been funneled through thepany for years. I know it all.


    And if you don¡¯t cooperate with me, if you so much as hint at the truth about Iris, I¡¯ll make sure your father ends up behind bars for the rest of his life.¡±Ivy¡¯s breath hitched, the air around her suddenly feeling suffocating. She blinked in disbelief, her mind reeling.


    ¡°You¡­ you¡¯re lying,¡± she stammered, though the uncertainty in her voice betrayed herck of conviction. Be¡¯s grin widened, a dangerous glint in her eyes. ¡°Am I? Do you want to take that risk, Ivy? Go ahead, expose me. Tell Ryan and everyone else that I¡¯m not Iris. But know this: once the authorities dig into Kendrick Enterprises, once they follow the trail your father has been covering up for decades, there will be nothing left for you.


    Your precious family empire will crumble, your father will rot in a cell, and you will lose everything.¡±Ivy¡¯s mouth went dry, her pulse quickening as Be¡¯s words sunk in. She had heard whispers over the years, rumors about the shady dealings her father might have been involved in, but she had always dismissed them.


    Her father was a businessman, ruthless at times, but this? This was beyond anything she could have imagined. Seeing the doubt flicker across Ivy¡¯s face, Be pressed on, her voice like silk wrapping around Ivy¡¯s resolve.


    ¡°And once your father¡¯s gone, guess who thepany will fall to? Me. I¡¯ll be the one in control, and you and your precious brother will be at my mercy.¡±Ivy clenched her fists, anger bubbling up inside her, but it was mixed with something else-fear.


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare,¡± she spat, though her voice wavered. Be took another step forward, her expression smug. ¡°I would. And I will. Unless, of course, you decide to y along. Cooperate with me, Ivy, and everything stays the way it is. Your father stays free, thepany remains intact, and we all live happily ever after.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s jaw tightened as she stared at Be, hatred boiling in her veins. She had always known Be was maniptive, but this? This was a level of cruelty and cunning she hadn¡¯t expected.


    Yet, as much as she despised the thought of bending to Be¡¯s will, the stakes were too high. Her family was everything to her, and if what Be said was true, exposing her could destroy them all.


    ¡°You¡¯ve really thought this through, haven¡¯t you?¡± Ivy said bitterly, her voice low.


    Be smiled, the triumph evident in her eyes. ¡°I always do.¡±For a moment, the room fell silent, the tension between them thick and suffocating.


    Ivy¡¯s mind raced, trying to find a way out of the web Be had spun, but every avenue led back to the same conclusion: she was trapped.


    ¡°So, what now?¡± Ivy finally asked, her voiceced with resentment.


    Be took a step back, her demeanor calming now that she knew she had won. ¡°Now, you y your part. You¡¯re going to keep your mouth shut about Iris, and you¡¯re going to help me maintain this illusion. If you do that, your father¡¯s secrets stay buried, and Kendrick Enterprises remains in the family.¡±


    Ivy narrowed her eyes. ¡°And what happens to Iris? The real Iris?¡±Be¡¯s smile faded slightly, her eyes hardening. ¡°Iris is gone. She¡¯s noting back.¡±


    Ivy took a step closer, her voice steady despite the storm raging inside her. ¡°You¡¯re going to make sure of that, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Be didn¡¯t flinch and didn¡¯t break eye contact. ¡°If I have to,¡± she said coldly.


    Ivy felt a chill run down her spine at the finality in Be¡¯s voice. She had suspected for a while that Be had something to do with Iris¡¯s disappearance, but now she knew.


    Be wasn¡¯t just ying a game-she was willing to go to any lengths to secure her ce in the Kendrick empire. Ivy¡¯s mind raced, torn between protecting her family and finding a way to bring down the monster standing in front of her.


    But for now, she knew she had no choice but to bide her time. Be held all the cards, and one wrong move could destroy everything.


    ¡°Fine,¡± Ivy said through gritted teeth, her voice low. ¡°I¡¯ll go along with it. But don¡¯t think for a second that I¡¯m doing this for you. I¡¯m doing this for my family.¡±


    Be¡¯s smirk returned, satisfied with Ivy¡¯s submission. ¡°Of course, darling. Whatever helps you sleep at night.¡±Ivy red at her, resisting the urge tosh out.


    Instead, she turned on her heel and stormed out of the room, her heart pounding in her chest. She needed time to think, to figure out how to navigate the dangerous game Be had set in motion.


    Be watched her go, a smile still ying on her lips as she took a seat on the sofa, crossing her legs elegantly.


    She had won this battle, but she knew the war was far from over. Ivy was stubborn and defiant, and while she had managed to pull her into line for now, she couldn¡¯t let her guard down.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Ivy would be watching, waiting for the right moment to strike. But Be wasn¡¯t worried. She had yed this game far too long to let a spoiled, impulsive girl like Ivy ruin her ns.


    As far as she was concerned, the Kendrick empire was already hers. All she had to do was make sure it stayed that way.


    Ivy stormed through the hallways of the mansion, her fists clenched as she struggled to contain the rage boiling inside her. Be thought she had won, thought she had Ivy backed into a corner, but Ivy wasn¡¯t done yet.


    She had to protect her family, but she wasn¡¯t going to let Be walk all over her. As she rounded the corner, she nearly collided with Luca, who was on his way back from a meeting with the legal team. He noticed the stormy look on her face and raised an eyebrow. ¡°Ivy? What¡¯s going on?¡±Ivy stopped in her tracks, her mind racing.


    Luca. He was the one person who might be able to help her, someone who wasn¡¯t caught up in the tangled web of lies and maniption.


    Maybe, just maybe, he could help her find a way out of this mess.¡±Luca,¡± she said, her voice quieter than she intended, but filled with urgency.


    ¡°I need your help.¡±Luca frowned, his expression serious as he studied her face. ¡°What¡¯s going on, Ivy? You look like you¡¯ve seen a ghost.¡±


    Ivy nced over her shoulder, making sure they were alone before lowering her voice. ¡°It¡¯s Be. She¡¯s not who she says she is. She¡¯s been ckmailing me, threatening to expose my father¡¯s past unless I help her keep up the lie that she¡¯s Iris.¡±


    Luca¡¯s eyes widened in shock, but he quicklyposed himself. ¡°Wait¡­ what are you saying? Be¡¯s pretending to be Iris?¡±Ivy nodded, her voice trembling slightly as she spoke. ¡°Yes. And if we don¡¯t stop her, she¡¯s going to ruin everything. She¡¯s already got Ryan wrapped around her finger, and now she¡¯s threatening to take thepany.¡±Luca¡¯s expression hardened, his jaw clenched.


    ¡°What do you need me to do?¡±Ivy hesitated for a moment, knowing that involving Luca could put him in danger too. But she had no other choice. She couldn¡¯t take down Be alone.

 Chapter 84

    The cold, sterile air of the hospital was suffocating. The relentless beeping of machines filled the silence, echoing in the hallways.


    Mr. Kendrick sat in the waiting area, his eyes fixed on the clock, watching the minutes tick by.


    He had just received the devastating news. His son, Ryan, had woken up, but something was terribly wrong. Memory loss.


    The words lingered in his mind like a curse. How could this happen? How could his son wake up from thea and not remember his father, his own life? It was all too much.


    Thepany was crumbling, Be and her brother were taking over, and now Ryan-his one and only son-was lost in a fog of amnesia.


    The door to the waiting room creaked open, and Parker stepped in, his expression as grim as ever. He had been Mr. Kendrick¡¯s trusted friend and family doctor for years, but even he couldn¡¯t mask the concern etched on his face.¡±


    Mr. Kendrick, we need to talk,¡± Parker said, his voice low, almost hesitant.


    Mr. Kendrick didn¡¯t respond. His gaze remained fixed on the floor, his fists clenched tightly on his knees.


    Parker stepped closer, his tone more urgent.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s condition is¡­ well, it¡¯splicated. The memory loss is unpredictable. He remembers fragments-faces, ces-but not everything. He doesn¡¯t remember thepany, and most importantly, he doesn¡¯t remember-¡±


    ¡°-me,¡± Mr. Kendrick finished, his voice barely above a whisper, filled with bitterness.


    Parker nodded slowly. ¡°Yes. And that¡¯s why we need to take it slow. Rushing things could cause more harm than good.¡±Mr. Kendrick finally looked up, his eyes bloodshot and brimming with anger. ¡°Slow? Mypany is being taken over by strangers, Parker. Strangers! Be and her brother are sitting in my office, signing my papers, controlling my legacy, and you want me to take it slow?¡±Parker sighed, his shoulders heavy with the weight of the situation.


    ¡°I understand, but Ryan¡¯s health is the priority. You can¡¯t fix everything overnight.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about thepany right now,¡± Mr. Kendrick spat, his voice rising. ¡°I care about my son. I care about the fact that he doesn¡¯t even recognize his father. How am I supposed to deal with that?¡±


    There was a long, tense silence as Parker chose his words carefully. ¡°We will help him recover. But it will take time. For now, we need to focus on his well-being.¡±


    Mr. Kendrick stood weakly the chair scraping against the tiled floor. He turned toward the door, his body feeble and wobbly, trembling with rage and grief as his wheelchair was rushed to him.


    ¡°Get us discharged.¡±Parker¡¯s eyes widened in rm. ¡°Mr. Kendrick, that¡¯s not advisable. Ryan needs to stay here under observation, and you need a close watch, too. His memory-¡±


    ¡°-I don¡¯t care!¡± Mr. Kendrick shouted, cutting him off. His voice echoed in the small room, filled with a desperation Parker hadn¡¯t seen in him before. ¡°I don¡¯t care about your damn procedures, Parker! I want him home. I want him with me.¡±


    Parker stepped forward, lowering his voice to try and calm his friend. ¡°This isn¡¯t safe. If Ryan leaves now, it could make things worse. We need to give him time-¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no time, Parker!¡± Mr. Kendrick¡¯s voice broke, and for the first time, Parker saw the tears in his eyes. ¡°They¡¯re tearing everything apart. If I lose Ryan too, what do I have left?¡±


    Parker was silent for a long moment, torn between medical duty and loyalty to his friend. ¡°I¡¯ll start the discharge papers,¡± he finally said softly, knowing that arguing further was futile.


    As Parker left the room, Mr. Kendrick leaned back into the wheelchair, burying his face in his hands.


    Everything was slipping through his fingers. Thepany, his son, and his entire legacy. He couldn¡¯t control any of it.


    Meanwhile, at the Kendrick Mansion¡­ Be leaned back in the luxurious leather chair, her legs crossed elegantly as she swirled the ss of red wine in her hand.


    She had never felt so powerful. She and her brother were now officially in control of Kendrick Enterprises, and no one could stop them.


    Ryan was still in the hospital, battling his demons, and with the news of his memory loss spreading, Be knew the time was perfect to make her move.


    Her brother, standing by the window, stared out at the sprawling estate, a wicked smile ying on his lips.


    ¡°It¡¯s ours,¡± he said, his voice filled with triumph. ¡°All of it.¡±Be took a sip of her wine, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction.


    ¡°Yes. And once the dust settles, we¡¯ll make sure the Kendricks are nothing more than a distant memory.


    Thispany-this empire-belongs to us now.¡±Her brother turned to face her, a glint of mischief in his eyes.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°What do you think about Ivy?¡±Be shrugged, her smirk widening. ¡°Ivy¡¯s too busy being her naive little self. She might suspect something¡¯s wrong, but she doesn¡¯t have the guts to do anything about it. And as for Mr. Kendrick¡­ well, he¡¯s too focused on his poor son to even notice what¡¯s happening right under his nose.¡±


    ¡°Good. Then we¡¯re in the clear,¡± her brother said, taking a seat across from her. ¡°But we have to be careful. Luca¡¯s still around, and he¡¯s not as easily fooled.¡±Be¡¯s eyes darkened at the mention of Luca. She knew he had always been loyal to Ryan, and if anyone were to figure out the truth, it would be him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about Luca. I¡¯ll handle him.¡±


    Back at the Hospital¡­ Luca raced through the hospital corridors, his heart pounding in his chest. He had just received the call-Ryan was awake.


    After weeks of uncertainty, his best friend was finally conscious, but the news of the memory loss hit him like a punch to the gut.


    How much had Ryan forgotten? Would he remember anything about what happened before the ident?


    As Luca reached Ryan¡¯s room, he stopped for a moment topose himself before pushing the door open.


    Inside, Ryany in bed, his face pale and his eyes distant, staring nkly at the ceiling.¡±Ryan?¡± Luca¡¯s voice was filled with a mix of relief and concern as he stepped closer to the bed.


    Ryan turned his head slowly, his eyesnding on Luca.


    For a moment, there was no recognition, only confusion. ¡°Do I know you?¡± Ryan asked, his voice hoarse and weak.


    Luca¡¯s chest tightened. ¡°It¡¯s me, Luca. Your best friend. We¡¯ve known each other since we were kids.¡±Ryan¡¯s brow furrowed as he struggled to remember, but there was only a nk space where the memories should have been. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t remember.¡±


    Luca swallowed hard, forcing a smile despite the ache in his chest. ¡°It¡¯s okay, man. We¡¯ll figure this out. Just take it easy.¡±Ryan nodded slowly, but his expression remained distant.


    ¡°I¡­ I need to go home,¡± he muttered, his voice barely audible.


    Luca shook his head. ¡°You can¡¯t go home yet, Ryan.


    The doctors¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about the doctors,¡± Ryan interrupted, his voice rising slightly. ¡°I just need to get out of here. I need to¡­¡±He trailed off, his gaze bing unfocused again, lost in the fog of his fractured mind.


    Luca nced at Parker, who stood in the corner of the room, watching the exchange with a heavy heart. ¡°We can¡¯t let him leave,¡± Luca said quietly. ¡°He¡¯s not ready.¡±


    Parker sighed, his face etched with worry. ¡°Mr. Kendrick has already ordered the discharge. There¡¯s nothing we can do.¡±


    Luca¡¯s jaw tightened in frustration, but he knew arguing was pointless. Mr. Kendrick was as stubborn as they came, and once his mind was made up, there was no changing it.


    Later, at the Kendrick Mansion¡­ Mr. Kendrick sat in the back of the car as it pulled into the long driveway of the mansion.


    The journey had been silent, save for the asional exchange between the driver and Parker. As the car came to a stop, Mr. Kendrick didn¡¯t wait for assistance.


    He stepped out, his legs heavy as if the weight of the world was pressing down on him.


    He ignored Parker¡¯s protests about staying at the hospital and was wheeled into the house, heading straight for his study.


    Once inside, he locked the door behind him and copsed into his chair, his hands trembling as he poured himself a drink.


    His gaze fell on the family portrait on the wall-him, Ryan, and histe wife, all smiling, all so happy.


    The life he had built, the family he had cherished, was slipping through his fingers like sand.


    He raised the ss to his lips, his thoughts dark and heavy. How had ite to this? His son was a stranger, hispany stolen, and Be-the woman who was supposed to bring peace to his family-was at the heart of the chaos.


    The door rattled as someone knocked gently. ¡°Mr. Kendrick?¡± It was Parker¡¯s voice, filled with concern.


    ¡°Go away,¡± Mr. Kendrick muttered, his voice hoarse.


    ¡°Please, let me in,¡± Parker insisted. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be alone right now.¡±


    ¡°I said go away!¡± Mr. Kendrick shouted, his voice cracking with pain.


    Parker hesitated but eventually stepped back, leaving Mr. Kendrick alone with his thoughts.


    Alone with his grief. Alone in the silence of a house that no longer felt like home.

 Chapter 85

    Weeks had blurred into months since Ryan Kendrick had been discharged from the hospital.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    His once-sharp mind was now a haze of doubt and confusion, but the constant presence of Be, who imed to be Iris, offered him a semnce of stability.


    She was always there, smiling, reassuring him that everything would be okay.


    And though part of him doubted her story, he had no proof, no solid memory to refute her ims. So, he had no choice but to trust her.


    Be and her brother had made their way into the heart of Kendrick Enterprises.


    Under the pretense of investing, during his ident anda state, they began to manipte thepany from within.


    Changes were made swiftly, rebranding efforts, restructuring of departments, and new contracts signed with unfamiliar names.


    The employees whispered about the new leadership, but no one dared to speak up openly. Ryan, the once-vibrant CEO, was a shadow of himself, watching from the sidelines as Be and her brother ran the show.


    Ryan was sitting in the study room, flipping through oldpany reports, though his mind was elsewhere.


    Be walked in, her heels clicking softly against the marble floor. She had that same radiant smile she always wore around him, but today, something seemed off.


    There was a tension in the air, an unease that he couldn¡¯t quite ce.


    ¡°Hey, love,¡± Be said, her voice sweet as honey. She leaned over his desk, cing her hands on his shoulders. ¡°How are you feeling today?¡±Ryan shrugged, barely looking up from the papers.


    ¡°Same as always, I guess. Just trying to make sense of all of this.¡±Be straightened up, her eyes flickering with impatience. ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about all that anymore. I¡¯m handling everything with thepany. You just focus on getting better.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ryan replied, his voice distant. ¡°But¡­ it doesn¡¯t feel right. I mean, you¡¯re helping with thepany, but I can¡¯t shake the feeling that something¡¯s off.


    People keep asking questions about the rebranding, about what¡¯s going on.¡±Be¡¯s smile faltered for a brief moment before she recovered,ughing lightly. ¡°Of course, people are going to ask questions. Change always makes people nervous. But you trust me, don¡¯t you? I¡¯m doing this for us, for the family.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s brow furrowed. He wanted to believe her, but the nagging doubts wouldn¡¯t go away.


    ¡°It¡¯s just¡­ I don¡¯t remember you being so involved in thepany before, but sometimes¡­ I don¡¯t know. It just doesn¡¯t feel right.¡±


    Be¡¯s eyes darkened, but she kept her tone light. ¡°Ryan, you¡¯ve been through a traumatic experience. It¡¯s natural for things to feel off. Your memories are stilling back in bits and pieces. But I¡¯m here, and I¡¯ve always been here. You just need to trust me.¡±


    Ryan didn¡¯t respond, his gaze dropping back to the reports. Be sighed softly, brushing her hair back from her face. She turned to leave, but her expression hardened the moment her back was to him.


    There wasn¡¯t time for Ryan¡¯s doubts now-not with everythinging to a head.


    That afternoon, Be and her brother were preparing for the official rebrandingunch of Kendrick Enterprises. It was a high-profile event, with top investors, media, and other influential figures set to attend.


    Everything had to go perfectly. This was their moment to cement control over thepany, to finally im what they had been working toward for months.


    Be stood in front of the mirror in her dressing room, adjusting her sleek ck dress. She looked every bit the part of a powerful CEO, but the truth was far moreplex.


    Her brother, sitting casually on the couch, watched her with amusement.¡±You¡¯re nervous,¡± he teased, his tone light but knowing.


    Be shot him a look through the mirror. ¡°I¡¯m not nervous. I just want everything to go as nned.¡±


    He chuckled, standing up and walking over to her. ¡°It will. Ryan¡¯s too out of it to cause any trouble, and no one else knows what¡¯s going on. By the end of tonight, Kendrick Enterprises will be ours. And there¡¯s nothing anyone can do about it.¡±


    Be smiled at his confidence, but deep down, she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was about to go wrong. She hade too far to let it all fall apart now.


    Later that evening, the grand hall was buzzing with activity. Journalists and paparazzi crowded around the entrance, shing their cameras as important guests arrived.


    Be and her brother stood by the entrance, greeting the investors and guests as they walked in, all smiles and handshakes.


    The cameras shed as Be posed, the perfect picture of poise and confidence. But as the questions began to fly, she quickly realized the media was not going to be as easy to control as thepany had been.


    ¡°Miss Be, you are a well-known fashion icon. What happened to that career?¡± one journalist shouted.


    Be smiled, tilting her head slightly. ¡°Oh, I¡¯ve simply transitioned into something more aligned with my current priorities. The business world requires just as much creativity as fashion, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Another voice from the crowd jumped in, the question sharp. ¡°Are you married now to Ryan Kendrick?¡±Be¡¯s smile faltered for a brief second before she quickly regainedposure.


    ¡°Yes, we¡¯re very happy together. We¡¯ve faced some tough times, but we¡¯re stronger for it.¡±


    The questions kepting, faster now, more probing.¡±What do you think about the sudden disappearance of Mrs. Iris Kendrick?¡±


    Be¡¯s jaw tightened, but she forced a smile. ¡°Iris¡¯s disappearance has been tragic for the family, but we¡¯re focused on the future. Thepanyes first.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re about tounch a rebranding of Kendrick Enterprises. How did you acquire it? Or is it a form of coboration?¡±


    Be¡¯s heart raced as she felt the walls closing in. She needed to stay calm and stay in control. ¡°I¡¯m now a part of the Kendrick family.


    As Ryan¡¯s wife, thepany¡¯s future is naturally a priority for me. I¡¯m overseeing the affairs while the family navigates these tough times.¡±


    A final question came from the back of the crowd, the one she had been dreading. ¡°Is it true that Mr. Ryan Kendrick is suffering from memory loss after spending a long time in aa?¡±


    For a split second, Be¡¯s mask slipped, but she quickly recovered, her voice steady. ¡°Ryan is recovering well, and we¡¯re working through everything as a family. That¡¯s all I have to say on the matter. Thank you.¡±


    She turned on her heel, quickly walking away from the shing lights and prying questions. Her brother caught up with her as they headed toward the stage for the official announcement.¡±


    You handled that well,¡± he said with a smirk. ¡°But the pressure¡¯s on now. We need to make thisunch wless.¡±Be nodded, her mind racing. She could feel the doubt creeping in, the cracks in their carefully constructed facade beginning to show.


    But there was no turning back now. As they took the stage, Be¡¯s voice echoed through the hall as she addressed the investors and press, outlining the bright future of Kendrick Enterprises.


    The rebranding was a bold move, she exined, a necessary step in ensuring thepany¡¯s sess in theing years.


    Ryan stood off to the side, watching her with a mixture of admiration and confusion. He still couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was wrong.


    That the woman standing on stage wasn¡¯t who she imed to be. But without his memories, he had no way of proving it.


    Just as Be was finishing her speech, a suddenmotion erupted at the back of the hall.


    The doors burst open, and in walked a group of reporters, frantically waving their cameras and microphones.


    ¡°Breaking news!¡± one of them shouted, his voice cutting through the room like a knife. ¡°There¡¯s been a major development regarding the disappearance of Mrs. Iris Kendrick!¡±Be froze on stage, her heart pounding in her chest.


    The room fell into a tense silence as everyone turned to look at the reporters.¡±We have reason to believe that Iris Kendrick may still be alive,¡± the reporter continued, his eyes gleaming with excitement.


    ¡°And not only that there are allegations that the Kendrick family has been involved in a cover-up!¡±The crowd erupted into chaos, voices shouting questions and cameras shing as Be¡¯s carefully constructed world began to crumble around her.


    She stood there, stunned, unable to move. Her brother grabbed her arm, pulling her off the stage, but the damage had already been done.


    Ryan watched, his mind spinning. Iris¡­ alive, is she not Iris? Could it be true? Could the woman he had been trusting all these months be lying to him?

 Chapter 86

    Jessicay on the cold floor of the dingy room, her breathing shallow andbored.


    Her body felt weak, every bone aching with the weight of exhaustion and sickness.


    Days had turned into weeks, and she could feel her health slipping away.


    But through the fog of pain and fatigue, one terrifying realization had be clear: she knew who had done this to her. Mrs. Rose Kendrick.


    The name churned in her mind, filling her with a mix of fear and anger.


    Jessica had once worked closely with the Kendrick family. She had been privy to their secrets, their hidden lives.


    But never in her wildest dreams had she imagined that Mrs. Rose, the seemingly elegant matriarch of the family, would go so far as to kidnap and try to kill her.


    Jessica coughed, her throat raw and dry. She tried to sit up, but her body refused to cooperate.


    The room spun around her as a wave of dizziness crashed over her, leaving her gasping for air.


    She needed help-urgent medical attention, or she wouldn¡¯t survive much longer.


    Just as her vision began to blur, she heard footsteps approaching the door. Her pulse quickened. Was it another one of Mrs. Rose¡¯s men? Or worse, was it Mrs. Rose herself?


    The door creaked open, and a figure stepped inside. Jessica squinted, struggling to focus. Her heart skipped a beat when she recognized the familiar figure.


    It was Mrs. Rose.


    Dressed impably, as always, Mrs. Rose¡¯s presence filled the room with an air of superiority.


    Her dark hair was pulled back tightly, and her hazel eyes gleamed with cold calction. She didn¡¯t seem fazed by the sight of Jessica¡¯s frail body on the floor. Instead, there was something almost¡­ clinical in the way she observed her.


    ¡°Well, well,¡± Mrs. Rose said, her voice as smooth as velvet. ¡°Look at you, Jessica. It seems time hasn¡¯t been kind to you.¡±


    Jessica struggled to speak, her voice barely a whisper. ¡°Why¡­ why are you doing this?¡±


    Mrs. Rose clicked her tongue and slowly circled the room, her heels tapping against the floor. ¡°You really haven¡¯t figured it out yet? After all these years?¡±


    Jessica¡¯s heart pounded as she struggled to sit up, leaning against the wall for support.


    ¡°You¡­ you¡¯re behind all of this¡­ Why? What do you want from me?¡±


    Mrs. Rose stopped in front of her, crouching down so that their faces were level.


    Her eyes narrowed as she stared into Jessica¡¯s as if weighing the value of her next words.¡±I¡¯ve kept a close eye on you, Jessica. You were a threat. You know things about this family-about me-that I cannot afford to be made public,¡± Mrs. Rose said, her voice dangerously low.


    ¡°But I¡¯m not ready for you to die just yet. You still have a part to y.¡±Jessica¡¯s blood ran cold.


    Mrs. Rose had always been maniptive, but to go this far? Mrs. Rose stood up, taking a deep breath as though the sight of Jessica sickened her.


    ¡°You always wanted to know why, didn¡¯t you? Why I kept you around. Why did I allow you to live after everything? It¡¯s simple. You¡¯re my insurance. You¡¯re the loose thread that I need to control. And now, as you can see, I have control.¡±


    Jessica¡¯s eyes filled with tears, not just from the physical pain, but from the realization of how deep Mrs. Rose¡¯s cruelty went.


    Her voice cracked as she tried to protest. ¡°You can¡¯t just keep me here. I¡¯m not your pawn. You can¡¯t y with people¡¯s lives like this.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s lips curved into a smile, but there was no warmth in it. ¡°Oh, darling, I can. And I have been for years.¡±Jessica tried to summon the strength to fight back, but her body was failing her. Her vision blurred again, her breathing in short gasps.


    She was too weak to resist, too fragile to stand up against this monsterThis belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    . Mrs. Rose noticed the change in her, the way her skin had grown pale and mmy, the way her eyes fluttered as if on the edge of unconsciousness.


    She pursed her lips, clearly annoyed. This wasn¡¯t part of the n. Jessica needed to stay alive for now.¡±Look at you. Pathetic,¡± Mrs. Rose muttered, disgustcing her words. ¡°It seems I¡¯ve underestimated just how frail you¡¯ve be. You need medical attention.¡±She pulled out her phone and made a quick call. Her voice was sharp, all business.


    ¡°Get someone here immediately. She¡¯s in bad shape. I want her moved to a private facility. I don¡¯t want her dead yet.¡±There was a brief pause as the person on the other end of the line responded. Mrs. Rose¡¯s face remained impassive as she listened. ¡°No. Take her to the facility I mentioned before. I don¡¯t care what you have to do-just make sure she stays alive.¡±


    She ended the call, slipping the phone back into her handbag before turning her attention back to Jessica, who was slipping in and out of consciousness.¡±You¡¯ll get the help you need, Jessica,¡± Mrs. Rose said in a mocking tone. ¡°But don¡¯t think for a second that this is out of kindness. You¡¯re still useful to me. And until you¡¯re not, you¡¯ll stay alive.¡±


    Jessica¡¯s mind raced, her thoughts a jumbled mess. She wanted to scream, to fight, but her body refused to respond. All she could do was watch as Mrs. Rose stepped back, her face a picture of satisfaction.


    ¡°You always thought you were so clever, didn¡¯t you?¡± Mrs. Rose said softly. ¡°But now you know the truth. You¡¯re nothing. Just a tool. And I always get what I want.¡±


    The door opened, and two men in suits entered, their faces nk and professional. They moved toward Jessica, lifting her frail body carefully off the floor and onto a stretcher.


    As they began to wheel her out of the room, Jessica felt a surge of panic. She was too weak to fight, but her mind screamed in protest. She had to escape. She had to find a way out before it was toote.


    But her body refused to cooperate, and thest thing she saw before the darkness swallowed her was Mrs. Rose¡¯s cold, victorious smile.


    Hourster, Jessica awoke in a sterile, white hospital room. The fluorescent lights above her head hummed softly, and the air smelled of antiseptic. Her body ached, but the pain was dulled, likely by the medication they had given her.


    She struggled to sit up, her head spinning as she took in her surroundings. There was no one else in the room, just the quiet beeping of the machines monitoring her condition


    . Her thoughts were slow, muddled by the haze of drugs, but one thing was clear-Mrs. Rose had ns for her. Dark, twisted ns that would keep her under control for as long as she remained useful.


    But Jessica wasn¡¯t going to let that happen. Not if she could help it. She nced around the room, searching for any sign of an exit or a way to call for help. Her body was weak, but her mind was sharp. She had to find a way to escape before Mrs. Rose tightened her grip on her even further


    . As she shifted in the bed, she heard the door creak open. Her heart raced as a nurse stepped inside, holding a tray of medical supplies.¡±Good, you¡¯re awake,¡± the nurse said, her tone professional but distant. She set the tray down on the table next to Jessica¡¯s bed and began checking her vitals.


    Jessica¡¯s throat was dry, but she forced herself to speak. ¡°Where am I?¡±The nurse didn¡¯t look up from her work. ¡°You¡¯re in a private hospital. Mrs. Kendrick has arranged for your care.¡±Jessica¡¯s stomach turned at the mention of Mrs. Rose¡¯s name.


    ¡°I need¡­ to leave. I can¡¯t stay here.¡±The nurse raised an eyebrow, finally ncing at her. ¡°You¡¯re in no condition to leave. You¡¯re lucky to be alive.¡±Jessica¡¯s hands trembled as she gripped the sheets. She had to get out. She had to find someone, anyone who could help her.


    But as the nurse finished her check and left the room, the door clicked shut behind her, and Jessica was once again alone. She felt trapped, like a caged animal with no way out.


    But even in the face of hopelessness, she refused to give up. She would escape. She had to. For her daughter, for herself, for the truth that Mrs. Rose had buried for too long.


    As Jessicay in the hospital bed, her mind racing with ns of escape, the door creaked open once more. She tensed, expecting another nurse or one of Mrs. Rose¡¯s men.


    But it wasn¡¯t either of them.


    A shadowy figure stepped into the room, their face obscured by the dim lighting.


    Jessica¡¯s heart pounded in her chest as the figure approached her bed, their voice low and unfamiliar.¡± Jessica,¡± the figure whispered. ¡°I¡¯m here to help you. But you have to trust me.¡±Jessica¡¯s eyes widened in shock.


    Could this person be her salvation-or just another trap set by Mrs. Rose?

 Chapter 87

    Ryan sat in the massive living room, the silence of the house almost suffocating.


    His fingers absentmindedly trailed along the arm of the sofa as he stared at the empty walls, void of any warmth or personality.


    Be had cleared everything. All the paintings, the photos, and any semnce of the life he once shared with Iris.


    But Be was his wife now or so she told him. And she seemed to care about him more than anyone else. She told him how his family had turned on her, how they had never epted their rtionship.


    Be imed they had even tried to sabotage her when she took over thepany, forcing her to step in and save the empire in his absence.


    Still, Ryan couldn¡¯t help but feel a nagging doubt. It gnawed at the back of his mind, small shes of memories that didn¡¯t add up, but with no concrete evidence, he had nothing to cling to.


    He rubbed his temples as the confusion lingered. ¡°Maybe I¡¯m overthinking this,¡± he muttered to himself.


    The door creaked open, and Be stepped into the house, carrying several files in her arms. She smiled when she saw Ryan but quickly noticed the weariness etched on his face.


    ¡°Ryan, you look exhausted,¡± she said, cing the files on the kitchen counter and walking over to him.


    Ryan nced up, offering her a weak smile. ¡°I¡¯m tired of being home all day, Iris. I feel like I¡¯m in a cage.¡±


    Be¡¯s expression softened, and she walked over, cing a hand on his shoulder. ¡°I know it¡¯s hard, darling,¡± she cooed. ¡°But you need time to heal. You¡¯re still recovering from thea. The doctor said that if you rush it, you might never regain your memory fully.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I even want to regain it,¡± Ryan admitted, his voice heavy. ¡°All I know is what you¡¯ve told me. And I trust you, but it¡¯s¡­ hard. There are these¡­ shes in my mind sometimes, but they¡¯re so blurred.¡±


    Be¡¯s grip on his shoulder tightened, though her voice remained sweet. ¡°I understand it¡¯s frustrating, Ryan. But I¡¯m here for you. I¡¯ve always been here for you, even when your family turned their backs on us.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s brows furrowed. He had been grappling with this for weeks now, his memories hazy at best.


    He couldn¡¯t recall much of his past, who his family was, or what kind of person he had been before the ident.


    Everything felt like a distant dream, except for Be. Be had been the one constant. She had been taking care of him, and while his instincts screamed that something was wrong, he had no choice but to rely on her version of the truth.


    ¡°They hate you that much?¡± he asked, doubt creeping into his voice.


    Be¡¯s face turned somber, her eyes filling with what appeared to be pain.


    She let out a sigh as she sat beside him on the couch. ¡°Ryan, they never epted me. They didn¡¯t think I was good enough for you, especially your father and Ivy.


    He wanted you to marry someone else-¡± Ryan¡¯s head snapped up. ¡°someone else?¡±


    Be¡¯s eyes hardened slightly before she forced a soft smile. ¡°Yes, She¡¯s¡­ well, she was around a lot before the ident. But she never cared about you, Ryan. I was the one who stood by your side.¡±Ryan rubbed his forehead, sending a strange jolt through him.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t I remember her at all?¡±Be hesitated for a moment, then ced her hand gently on his knee. ¡°You don¡¯t remember because your mind is protecting you. Trust me, Ryan. She hurt you, and that¡¯s why your brain is blocking it out. It¡¯s best not to think about her. We¡¯ve moved on. We¡¯re building a new life together.¡±


    Ryan nodded, though his unease lingered. ¡°I guess you¡¯re right. I¡¯m just¡­ tired of feeling like a ghost of myself.¡±Be smiled again, though her eyes remained cold.


    ¡°That¡¯s why you need to stay home and rest. Once you regain your strength, you¡¯ll be able to return to thepany full-time. Until then, I¡¯m taking care of everything.¡±


    Ryan shifted ufortably. ¡°And thepany? How¡¯s that going?¡±


    ¡°Everything¡¯s going ordingly,¡± Be said, her voice filled with confidence.


    ¡°I¡¯ve made a few changes, of course, but it¡¯s all in the best interest of the business.¡±


    Ryan frowned slightly. ¡°Changes? What kind of changes?¡±


    Be waved her hand dismissively. ¡°Nothing too drastic, just a bit of rebranding. The Kendrick Empire needed a fresh face, something modern. Trust me, Ryan, once you¡¯re back on your feet, you¡¯ll see it was the right move.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s mind wandered back to those shes of memories.


    ¡°I just¡­ I don¡¯t understand how everything could change so quickly.¡±


    Be leaned in, cupping his face with her hands. ¡°Ryan, you don¡¯t need to understand everything right now. What matters is that I¡¯m here, and we¡¯re in this together. You trust me, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Ryan hesitated, his mind battling with the conflicting emotions. The logical part of him wanted to ask more questions and dig deeper into the fragments of memories.


    But he was exhausted, both physically and mentally. Be had been there for him through all of it, and without any proof to the contrary, he forced himself to believe her.


    He nodded.¡±I trust you,¡± he said, though his voicecked the conviction he once held.


    Be¡¯s smile widened as she brushed a stray hair from his face. ¡°Good. Now, let¡¯s focus on getting you back to full health.¡±


    Ryan leaned back into the sofa, closing his eyes. ¡°I just want to feel normal again.¡±


    The next morning, Ryan woke up to find Be already dressed and ready to leave for the office.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    She had been busier than ever, constantly running thepany while he remained stuck at home. Ryan hated it, but every time he tried to push himself to leave the house, Be reminded him of how dangerous it could be for his recovery.


    ¡°Are you heading to the office again?¡± Ryan asked, sitting up in bed.


    Be nced over at him, a knowing smile ying on her lips. ¡°Yes, love. There¡¯s a lot to take care of, but I promise it¡¯s only temporary. Soon, you¡¯ll be able toe back and take over, and everything will be as it was.¡±


    Ryan nodded, though something still didn¡¯t sit right with him. ¡°Maybe I coulde with you? I¡¯m tired of just sitting around.¡±


    Be¡¯s smile faded slightly, and she walked over to him, sitting on the edge of the bed.


    ¡°Ryan, you¡¯re not ready. The stress of the office could set you back. The doctor said you need time, and I don¡¯t want to risk anything.¡±


    ¡°I feel fine, though,¡± Ryan argued softly. ¡°I¡¯m getting stronger every day.¡±


    Be shook her head, her tone firm. ¡°You need to trust me on this. Give it a little more time, and then we can talk about going back to work. Right now, your health is the most important thing.¡±


    Ryan sighed, defeated. He couldn¡¯t argue with her-she had been his rock through all of this, after all.


    He leaned back into the pillows, resigning himself to another day of istion.


    Be stood, smoothing her dress as she prepared to leave. ¡°I¡¯ll be back before dinner. If you need anything, just call. And please, don¡¯t try to do too much. Rest is key.¡±


    Ryan nodded, though his mind was already elsewhere, thoughts swirling with the possibility that he was missing something crucial.


    As Be grabbed her purse and walked toward the door, she paused and turned to face him onest time. ¡°Remember, Ryan-no matter what happens, I¡¯m here for you. I always will be.¡±Ryan forced a smile. ¡°I know.¡±


    The door clicked shut behind her, and Ryan was left alone once again, trapped in his thoughts. Something wasn¡¯t right. But without his memories, he was a prisoner to Be¡¯s version of events.


    He stood up slowly, pacing the room as his mind raced. He felt fine. Stronger than he had in weeks. Maybe Be was being overprotective, or maybe¡­ maybe there was something else she didn¡¯t want him to see.


    His eyes drifted to the front door, temptation building inside him. After weeks of being cooped up in the house, he needed to do something-anything-to feel like himself again.


    He grabbed a jacket, his heart pounding in his chest as he opened the door and stepped outside.


    As he walked toward the driveway, the cool air hit his face, invigorating him. But before he could take more than a few steps, a ck car pulled up, and two men in suits got out, blocking his path.


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick,¡± one of them said, his tone polite but firm. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be out here. Mrs. Be gave strict instructions for you to stay inside and rest.¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Who the hell are you? Be didn¡¯t mention any guards.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re here for your protection,¡± the man said, his expression unreadable. ¡°Please, go back inside.

 Chapter 88

    Jessicay in the hospital bed, her body weak, bruised, and barely able to move.


    The sterile smell of the private ward filled her nostrils as the low beeping of machines echoed in the room.


    Her vision was blurry, and every breath felt like an effort. She knew she was being kept alive for a reason perhaps so Mrs. Rose could toy with her life just a little longer.


    Yet, a part of her still held on, hoping for a miracle.


    The door creaked open, and in walked a man in a white coat, his face obscured by a surgical mask.


    He closed the door behind him and briefly nced at the guards stationed outside.


    He lingered for a moment, studying their positions and ensuring no one was paying too much attention.


    ¡°Mrs. Jessica,¡± he whispered as he approached her bed, his voice steady yet urgent.


    Jessica stirred, her eyes slowly focusing on the figure before her. Something about his voice felt different, not like the cold, clinical tone she had grown ustomed to.


    The doctor leaned down, lowering his mask to reveal his face-a face she didn¡¯t recognize but sensed she could trust.


    ¡°I¡¯m not here to hurt you. I¡¯m here to save you.¡±Jessica¡¯s heart raced, her weakened body struggling to keep up with her sudden surge of hope.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± she croaked, her voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°There¡¯s no time for introductions,¡± the man replied, ncing at the door to ensure no one was listening.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been sent by Luca. He¡¯s been looking for you, and he¡¯s nning your escape.¡±


    ¡°Luca?¡± Jessica repeated, her eyes widening with disbelief. ¡°He found me?¡±


    The doctor nodded. ¡°But you have to trust me. We need to move quickly, or they¡¯ll transfer you soon, and I can¡¯t promise you¡¯ll survive wherever they¡¯re nning to take you.¡±


    Jessica¡¯s mind spun. She knew Mrs. Rose wanted her silenced permanently, and if what this man was saying was true, this might be her only chance.


    ¡°What do I have to do?¡± she asked, her voice shaking but determined.


    The doctor leaned in closer, speaking in a low, conspiratorial tone. ¡°In a few minutes, I¡¯m going to make an excuse to check on you again. When I do, I¡¯ll give you a sedative that will make it look like you¡¯ve fallen into a deep sleep.


    The guards will assume you¡¯re too weak to resist. Luca¡¯s men will be waiting outside to intercept the ambnce before they can take you anywhere.


    We¡¯ll swap you out and hide you somewhere safe.¡±Jessica swallowed hard, her chest tightening at the thought of trusting a stranger with her life. ¡°But what if they catch us?¡±


    The doctor¡¯s eyes softened. ¡°We won¡¯t let that happen. I swear it.¡±


    She nodded, a tear slipping down her cheek. ¡°Okay¡­ I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    The doctor straightened up and ced his mask back over his face. He gave her onest look of reassurance before turning and walking out of the room.


    As soon as he left, Jessica felt the heavy weight of fear settles on her chest. Every second felt like an eternity. She nced toward the window, where the guards stood rigid, their eyes scanning the hallway.


    Time seemed to stretch, and her mind raced with questions. Would this n work? Could she trust Luca¡¯s men?


    Momentster, the door opened again, and the doctor reentered, moving with practiced calmness.


    He approached Jessica¡¯s bedside, pulling out a syringe from his pocket.¡±Don¡¯t worry,¡± he whispered. ¡°It¡¯ll just make you sleep for a bit. When you wake up, you¡¯ll be free.¡±Jessica nodded, her heart pounding in her chest.


    She watched as the needle slid into her arm, and slowly, a heavy drowsiness began to take over.


    Her eyelids grew heavy, and the world around her started to fade. In the hallway, the guards noticed nothing unusual. The doctor exited the room, looking as calm andposed as ever.


    ¡°She¡¯s stable for now, but weak. We¡¯ll need to transfer her in an hour.¡±


    One of the guards nodded, giving him a curt reply. ¡°Fine. We¡¯ll be ready.¡±


    The doctor walked down the hallway, his heart pounding in his chest as he passed through the security checkpoints.


    He exited the hospital and found himself outside, where a ck SUV sat parked in the distance.


    Inside, Luca waited, his jaw clenched and his eyes full of determination.


    ¡°Everything¡¯s set,¡± the doctor whispered as he reached the car.


    ¡°They¡¯ll be moving her in an hour.¡±Luca nodded, his gaze fixed on the hospital entrance. ¡°Good. Make sure your men are in ce. We can¡¯t afford any mistakes.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re ready. You¡¯ll get her out safely.¡±Luca gave him a final nod before the doctor walked back into the building, blending into the sea of medical staff.


    An hourter, as nned, the hospital staff began preparing Jessica for transfer.


    The guards watched as a stretcher was wheeled into her room, her unconscious form lying motionless on the bed.


    The nurse confirmed her condition before securing her to the stretcher and wheeling her out of the private ward.


    The ambnce was waiting outside, its back doors open and the engine running.


    The guards followed closely as Jessica was loaded into the back of the vehicle.


    The doctor appeared, clipboard in hand, giving a brief nod of approval.


    Once inside, the ambnce doors were shut, and the vehicle began to pull away from the hospital.


    But they didn¡¯t get far. As the ambnce turned onto a quiet street, a ck SUV suddenly swerved in front of them, blocking their path.


    The driver mmed on the brakes, and the ambnce screeched to a halt.


    The guards jumped out of the vehicle, their guns drawn, but before they could react, Luca¡¯s men appeared from the shadows, guns pointed directly at them.


    ¡°Don¡¯t move!¡± one of Luca¡¯s men shouted. ¡°Put your weapons down.¡±


    The guards hesitated, but they were outnumbered and outmaneuvered.


    They slowly lowered their guns, allowing Luca¡¯s team to take control.


    Luca stepped out of the SUV, his eyes cold and calcting as he approached the back of the ambnce.


    He motioned for one of his men to open the doors.


    Inside, Jessicay unconscious on the stretcher, just as the doctor had promised.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get her out of here,¡± Luca ordered.


    With swift precision, they transferred Jessica into Luca¡¯s SUV, covering her with a nket to shield her from prying eyes.


    As soon as she was secure, Luca climbed into the driver¡¯s seat, and the vehicle sped away into the night.


    Hourster, Jessica awoke in a dimly lit room, her head pounding and her body aching.


    She blinked, trying to adjust to the unfamiliar surroundings.


    Panic gripped her as she remembered the events of the day. Where was she? Was she safe? Before she could fullyprehend her situation, the door creaked open, and Luca stepped inside.


    His expression was a mix of relief and concern.¡± Jessica,¡± he said softly, approaching her bedside. ¡°You¡¯re safe now. We got you out.¡±She looked up at him, her voice barely a whisper. ¡°Thank you¡­ I didn¡¯t think I¡¯d make it.¡±


    Luca nodded, his eyes darkening. ¡°Neither did I. But now we need to figure out what¡¯s next.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

 Chapter 89

    Luca sat in the dimly lit corner of his office, his fingers drumming lightly on the edge of his desk.


    His mind was racing, eyes fixed on his phone. As he remembered how he tracked down Mrs Jessica.


    Every lead so far had led to dead ends. Mrs. Rose had covered her tracks well, but Luca wasn¡¯t about to give up. He knew Jessica held the key to unraveling everything.


    Suddenly, his phone buzzed. Luca nced down, surprised to see an unknown number. Hesitantly, he answered.¡±Hello?¡±


    ¡°Luca?¡± came a low voice from the other end. It was raspy, like the person speaking was constantly looking over their shoulder.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have much time. I¡¯m one of the guards assigned to watch Mrs. Jessica.¡±Luca¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°Go on.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s being moved to a hospital tomorrow morning.


    They¡¯re trying to keep it quiet, but I thought you should know. She¡¯s in bad shape, and if they take her where Mrs. Rose wants, I don¡¯t think she¡¯ll survive.


    ¡°Luca¡¯s jaw clenched. ¡°Why are you telling me this?¡±


    ¡°Because I¡¯m not on board with killing an innocent woman,¡± the guard replied, his voice tense.


    ¡°Look, I can help you, but we have to move fast. If you want to get her out, you need to act now.


    ¡°Luca didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°Tell me everything.¡±It didn¡¯t take long for Luca to form a n. The guard¡¯s intel had been detailed enough for him to map out the hospital¡¯syout, the routes the transport vehicle would take, and the security measures in ce.


    Time was running out, and Jessica¡¯s life was hanging in the bnce. Luca couldn¡¯t afford a single misstep. The next morning, Luca sat inside a sleek ck SUV, parked a few blocks away from the hospital.


    He was nked by two of his most trusted men, both armed and ready. The guard had provided them with the transport schedule Jessica was set to be moved at 10 a. m., just as the hospital¡¯s shift change urred.


    It was the perfect time to strike.¡±We don¡¯t have much time,¡± Luca said, ncing at the clock on the dashboard.


    ¡°As soon as they move her out of the hospital, we¡¯ll intercept the vehicle. No one can know this is happening, understood?¡±


    The men nodded in agreement, their faces grim and focused.


    At exactly 9:55 a. m., Luca¡¯s phone buzzed again. It was the guard.


    ¡°They¡¯re getting her ready now,¡± he said quickly. ¡°I¡¯m in position. You¡¯ll have a 10-minute window to make your move once they load her into the ambnce. Don¡¯t screw this up.¡±


    ¡°We won¡¯t,¡± Luca promised. ¡°Be ready on your end.¡±The phone clicked off, and Luca took a deep breath. This was it.


    Inside the hospital, Jessica was barely conscious. Her body was weak, and her mind foggy from the medication they¡¯d been giving her. She knew something was wrong, Mrs. Rose wouldn¡¯t keep her alive unless she had some twisted purpose.


    Jessica¡¯s thoughts raced, her pulse quickening as the nurses began to wheel her bed toward the exit.¡±Stay calm,¡± one of the nurses murmured, but Jessica barely heard her.


    She could sense that time was running out. As they wheeled her through the halls, Jessica¡¯s eyes darted around.


    The guard who had contacted Luca was nearby, giving her a subtle nod.


    Jessica¡¯s heart leapt. She wasn¡¯t alone in this. The hospital exit loomed ahead, and Jessica felt a wave of panic.


    Outside, Luca watched through the binocrs as the hospital doors opened.


    The ambnce was parked and ready, the back doors swung wide as the hospital staff rolled Jessica¡¯s stretcher out. His grip tightened on the steering wheel. It was now or never.¡±They¡¯re moving,¡± Luca said into the radio. ¡°Get ready.¡±


    The men in the back of the SUV nodded. Luca pulled out onto the street, staying a few car lengths behind the ambnce as it slowly pulled away from the hospital.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    He stayed back, blending in with the flow of traffic as they drove toward the outskirts of the city.¡±Now!¡± Luca barked into the radio. The ck SUV sped up, closing the gap between the vehicles.


    In one swift motion, they overtook the ambnce, cutting it off in the middle of a quiet side street. Luca and his men sprang into action, guns drawn as they surrounded the vehicle.¡±Out of the ambnce!¡± one of Luca¡¯s men shouted, pointing his gun at the driver. The driver, confused and panicked,plied immediately.


    The nurse inside the ambnce screamed, but Luca was already at the back doors, pulling them open. Jessicay on the stretcher, ¡°Jessica,¡± Luca said softly, holstering his gun and leaning in close. ¡°It¡¯s me. I¡¯m getting you out of here.¡±She blinked at him,¡±Luca?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s me,¡± he said, motioning to his men. ¡°Let¡¯s move. We don¡¯t have much time.¡±With practiced efficiency, they lifted Jessica from the stretcher and transferred her into the back of the SUV.


    The SUV peeled away from the scene, leaving the abandoned ambnce and its shaken staff in the dust.


    Hourster, they arrived at a safe house far from the city. The secluded property was hidden deep in the woods, the perfect ce toy low until they could figure out their next move.


    Luca carried Jessica inside, his arms strong but gentle as he ced her on a bed in one of the upstairs rooms. Jessica¡¯s eyes fluttered open as she took in her new surroundings. ¡°Where are we?¡±


    ¡°Somewhere safe,¡± Luca replied, sitting on the edge of the bed. ¡°You¡¯re going to be okay now.¡±Jessica¡¯s voice was weak, but her eyes were full of determination. ¡°She won¡¯t stop, Luca. Mrs. Rose¡­ she¡¯lle for me.¡±Luca nodded, his jaw clenched. ¡°I know. But we¡¯ll be ready.¡±


    For the first time in what felt like an eternity, Jessica allowed herself to rx, her body sinking into the soft mattress beneath her. She was free, at least for now.


    But deep down, she knew this was only the beginning of the fight. As Luca stood and turned to leave the room, Jessica¡¯s voice stopped him.


    ¡°Luca,¡± she called, her voice trembling. ¡°Why did youe for me? Why did you risk everything?¡±Luca turned back to face her, his eyes full of a raw emotion he hadn¡¯t shown before.


    ¡°Because you¡¯re important, Jessica. And because I won¡¯t let her win.¡±


    With that, he left the room, closing the door softly behind him. Outside, Luca leaned against the wall of the house, taking a deep breath.


    His phone buzzed in his pocket, and he pulled it out, ncing at the message on the screen. It was from one of his contacts.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose knows. She¡¯s already looking for her.¡±Luca¡¯s heart sank, but he quicklyposed himself. He had anticipated this. They would have to stay one step ahead, always moving, always prepared.


    The war with Mrs. Rose was far from over. But for now, at least, Jessica was safe.


    Luca slipped his phone back into his pocket, his mind racing with ns. He wouldn¡¯t let Mrs. Rose destroy everything. Not this time.


    And as the sun set behind the trees, casting long shadows over the house, Luca knew one thing for sure: he would protect Jessica, no matter the cost.

 Chapter 90

    Mr. Kendrick sat in his study room, staring nkly at the framed portrait of histe father on the wall.


    The weight of everything was crushing him. The empire he had worked his entire life to maintain was slipping through his fingers, and the woman holding the reins was someone he despised.


    Be had cleverly maneuvered herself into a position of power, using forged paperwork and her maniption of the board to oust him from his ownpany.


    His heart ached with helplessness. He felt like a prisoner in his empire, forced to y along with her schemes if only to keep what little control he had left.


    The board was firmly on Be¡¯s side, lured in by promises of fresh leadership and new visions for thepany. No one questioned her authority, not even the ones who had once been loyal to him.


    Slumping into his chair, Kendrick reached for his phone and dialed a private number. He had no choice but to act fast if he wanted to save hispany from the clutches of this woman.


    The only way he could make any move now was through covert means. Investigations had to be carried out quietly, away from Be¡¯s prying eyes.


    He had already lost too much ground.¡±Start the investigations,¡± he said as soon as the person on the other end picked up. His voice was low, filled with the exhaustion of a man who had been backed into a corner.


    ¡°I want every inch of her background looked into. Something has toe up, and when it does, I¡¯ll need it immediately.¡±


    ¡°Understood, sir,¡± the voice on the other line responded.


    Kendrick ended the call and leaned back in his chair, running his hand over his face.


    The facade he was putting up was slowly eating away at him. He knew he needed to be cautious-Be was smart, ruthless, and seemed to have thought through every move.


    And then there was Ryan. His son hade to visit, and Kendrick knew that Be¡¯s maniption had worked on him as well.


    Ryan believed everything she said, thinking she was some innocent victim who had been mistreated by the family.


    And now, Kendrick had to tell an even bigger lie to his son to keep Be from tightening her grip further.


    A knock on the door pulled him from his thoughts. Ryan stepped into the room, his presence filling the space with a quiet tension.


    ¡°Hey, Dad,¡± Ryan said, his voice uncertain.


    ¡°I came to check on you.¡±


    Kendrick straightened in his chair, trying to summon a smile. ¡°Ryan, it¡¯s good to see you.¡±


    Ryan walked over, sitting down in the chair opposite his father.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been worried. Be¡¯s been telling me about everything going on¡­ she said the board pushed you out because you¡¯ve been¡­ unwell?¡±


    The words stung, but Kendrick knew he couldn¡¯t show his anger, not yet. He had to tread carefully.


    Ryan was still under Be¡¯s spell, and if he wasn¡¯t careful, this whole charade could unravel in an instant.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Kendrick said slowly, choosing his words carefully.


    ¡°I¡¯ve had some health issues, and with everything going on, I couldn¡¯t manage thepany the way I used to. That¡¯s why I had to make some changes.¡±


    Ryan furrowed his brow. ¡°Changes? What kind of changes?¡±


    Kendrick took a deep breath, his heart racing as he prepared for the lie he had to tell.


    ¡°I know this is a lot to take in, but it¡¯s true. Iris was trying to protect you and thepany after your ident. She¡¯s been helping me run things because I wasn¡¯t¡­ fit to do it alone. The board trusts her because they know she has your best interests at heart.¡±


    Ryan stared at his father, trying to process what he was hearing. ¡°But¡­ Why didn¡¯t anyone tell me this before?¡±


    ¡°It was for your protection,¡± Kendrick replied, his voice steady despite the knot tightening in his chest.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t want to overwhelm you with too much information while you were recovering. Bel¡­.¡± He paused, correcting himself. ¡°Iris has been doing everything she can to make sure thepany stays afloat while you get back on your feet.¡±


    Ryan leaned back in his chair, his mind racing. ¡°So¡­ she¡¯s not lying to me? Everything she¡¯s said about the family hating her, mistreating her it¡¯s all true?¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Kendrick hesitated for a fraction of a second, then nodded. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s all true. She¡¯s been through a lot, Ryan, but she stayed because of you.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s expression softened. He wanted to believe his father, wanted to believe that Iris had been acting out of love for him.


    But something still didn¡¯t sit right.¡±I need to talk to her,¡± Ryan muttered, standing up. ¡°I need to hear it from her.¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Kendrick said, his voice tight. ¡°But please, Ryan¡­ don¡¯t let this tear you apart. We all want what¡¯s best for you.¡±


    Meanwhile, across town, Mrs. Rose stormed into her office, fury radiating off her in waves. She had just received word that Jessica had disappeared without a trace from the hospital where she had been held.


    Her carefullyid ns were beginning to unravel, and she couldn¡¯t allow that.


    ¡°How did this happen?¡± she snarled at the man standing before her, the head of her private security team.


    ¡°I had her guarded. I had everything in ce. And you¡¯re telling me she¡¯s just¡­ gone?¡±The man shifted ufortably. ¡°We believe someone infiltrated the hospital staff.


    We found the real doctor tied up in a supply closet. Whoever did this had inside help.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s face darkened, her eyes narrowing into dangerous slits.


    ¡°Inside help? You mean someone on my team betrayed me?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re looking into it now, ma¡¯am, but it appears they were professionals. Whoever did this, they knew exactly what they were doing.¡±


    Mrs. Rose clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms. She wasn¡¯t used to being outsmarted, and the idea that someone had outmaneuvered her was infuriating.


    Jessica¡¯s disappearance threatened everything she had built. If Jessica survived and revealed what she knew, the consequences could be catastrophic.


    ¡°Find her,¡± Mrs. Rose ordered, her voice cold and final. ¡°I don¡¯t care how long it takes, or how many resources you need. Find her, and when you do¡­ make sure she never breathes a word of what she knows.¡±


    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am,¡± the head of security replied, bowing his head before leaving the room.


    As soon as the door closed behind him, Mrs. Rose paced the room, her mind whirling with thoughts of vengeance. Jessica¡¯s escape was a major setback, but it wasn¡¯t the end.


    She had other ways to control the situation-other pawns she could move into ce.


    And as long as Ryan remained under Be¡¯s influence, she still had a foothold in the Kendrick empire.


    Later that evening, Ryan returned home to the mansion.


    Be-now fully immersed in her role as the loving and dutiful wife-was waiting for him in the living room, a ss of wine in her hand.


    She looked up as he entered, smiling sweetly.¡±Ryan,¡± she purred, standing up to greet him.


    ¡°How was your visit with your father?¡±Ryan stared at her for a moment, his mind still processing everything Kendrick had told him. He couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of confusion, mixed with doubt.¡±


    Iris,¡± he began slowly, his voice uncertain. ¡± you are Iris, right?¡­ ¡°Be¡¯s smile faltered for just a moment, but she recovered quickly.


    She stepped closer to him, cing a hand on his chest. ¡°Ryan, of course, I am. I¡¯ve been trying to help you, to protect you from everything that¡¯s been happening. I didn¡¯t want to overwhelm you while you were still recovering.¡±


    Ryan searched her face, trying to find any sign of a lie. But Be had always been good at masking her true intentions.¡±But why didn¡¯t you tell me earlier?¡± he asked, his voice quiet.


    ¡°Because I didn¡¯t want to hurt you. Your memory is still fragile, Ryan. I didn¡¯t want to cause you any more pain than you¡¯ve already been through.¡±


    Ryan felt a pang of guilt. Maybe she was right. Maybe she was just trying to protect him, and he had been too caught up in his doubts to see it.


    ¡°I just want what¡¯s best for you,¡± Be said softly, her fingers tracing circles on his chest. ¡°I always have.¡±Ryan looked down at her, his heart torn.


    He wanted to trust her, to believe that she was telling the truth. But there was still a small part of him that wasn¡¯t sure.

 Chapter 91

    Luca paced the dimly lit hallway of the hotel, his footsteps light as he listened intently to the quiet hum of his phone.


    The tiny earpiece in his ear crackled softly as he heard the voice on the other end say,


    ¡°She¡¯s on the move.¡±He nodded to himself, whispering under his breath, ¡°Keep an eye on her.


    I¡¯ll tail from a distance.¡±For weeks now, Luca had been suspicious of Mrs. Rose. Her frantic behavior since Mrs. Jessica¡¯s disappearance had set off rm bells, and his instincts told him there was more to this story than anyone realized.


    Tonight, he was determined to uncover the truth. Disguised in a dark hoodie and jeans, Luca slipped out of the back exit of the hotel, blending into the shadows of the bustling city.


    He kept a safe distance from Mrs. Rose¡¯s sleek ck car as it glided down the street, the taillights faint against the night sky. She was heading to a private location, and Luca had a feeling Dr. Parker would be there. He tapped his phone screen, opening the tracking app linked to the small GPS he had discreetly nted on Mrs. Rose¡¯s car earlier that week.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see where you¡¯re headed,¡± he muttered as he followed her down winding streets and into an upscale neighborhood. Inside the car, Mrs. Rose sat in the back seat, her fingers drumming impatiently against her phone. She nced at the driver, a man hired for his discretion, then typed out a message to Dr. Parker: ¡°Almost there. We need to talk.¡±


    The response came quickly: ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting.¡±Her mind raced as she thought about the situation at hand. Jessica was missing, Be was consolidating power over thepany, and Ryan still hadn¡¯t recovered his full memory.


    Everything was falling apart, and the only person she could truly trust now was Parker. He had always been there, covering her tracks, ensuring her secrets remained buried. But even he couldn¡¯t work miracles if Jessica resurfaced.


    As they pulled up to a secluded house at the edge of the neighborhood, Mrs. Rose stepped out of the car, taking a deep breath to calm her nerves. She approached the front door, knocking twice before it opened, revealing Dr. Parker standing in the doorway.¡± Rose,¡± he greeted her, stepping aside to let her in. ¡°You look tense.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because I am,¡± she replied curtly, walking past him and into the living room. ¡°We need to figure this out, Parker. Jessica is still out there, and we have no idea where she is.¡±Dr. Parker closed the door, locking it before following her.


    ¡°I told you, we¡¯ll find her. She¡¯s weak. She can¡¯t survive out there for long on her own.¡±Mrs. Rose spun around to face him, her eyes zing. ¡°You keep saying that, but it¡¯s been days, and there¡¯s still no sign of her! Do you realize what¡¯s at stake here? If she talks-¡±


    ¡°She won¡¯t,¡± Dr. Parker interrupted calmly, his voice steady. ¡°Jessica knows what¡¯s waiting for her if she tries to expose us. We¡¯ve kept her in the shadows for years. She¡¯s not going to risk everything now.¡±


    ¡°Are you really that confident?¡± Rose crossed her arms, pacing back and forth. ¡°Because I¡¯m not. The longer she¡¯s out there, the more vulnerable we are. And Be is bing a bigger problem than we anticipated. She¡¯s practically running thepany now.¡±


    Parker¡¯s face darkened at the mention of Be. ¡°I¡¯ve been keeping an eye on her. She¡¯s smart, but she doesn¡¯t have the full backing of the board yet. We can still take control if we y our cards right.¡±Mrs. Rose sighed, sinking into a chair. ¡°I can¡¯t believe this is happening. We were so close, Parker. So close to having everything, and now it¡¯s all slipping through our fingers.¡±


    Dr. Parker walked over, cing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. ¡°We¡¯ll fix this, Rose. But first, we need to focus on finding Jessica. I¡¯ve already mobilized a team to search for her. We¡¯ll track her down before she can cause any damage.¡±


    Unbeknownst to them, Luca stood outside, hidden behind a tall hedge, listening intently to their conversation through the window left slightly ajar. His heart raced as he pieced together the fragments of their discussion. Mrs. Rose and Dr. Parker were involved in something far more sinister than he had imagined. The mention of Jessica sent a chill down his spine.


    He had suspected she was in danger, but now he knew for certain that her disappearance wasn¡¯t an ident-it was orchestrated. Luca reached for his phone, quickly typing out a message to his contact: ¡°They¡¯re discussing Jessica. Something big is happening. Keep watch on their movements.¡±


    As he slipped his phone back into his pocket, he leaned closer to the window, straining to hear more. Inside, the tension between Mrs. Rose and Dr. Parker grew thicker.


    Mrs. Rose stood abruptly, pacing again as she spoke. ¡°We need to get rid of Be. She¡¯s bing a liability. If Ryan remembers even a fraction of what happened, everything we¡¯ve worked for will be exposed.¡±


    Dr. Parker nodded. ¡°I agree, but we can¡¯t be hasty. Be is clever. She¡¯s been manipting Ryan and Kendrick, ying the long game. We need to discredit her before we make any move against her.¡±And how do you propose we do that?¡± Rose snapped. ¡°She¡¯s got half the board in her pocket, and Ryan believes she¡¯s Iris.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll start by nting seeds of doubt,¡± Parker replied smoothly. ¡°We¡¯ll let Ryan overhear certain things, make him question her intentions. If he starts to mistrust her, she¡¯ll lose her power over him. Once that happens, we can move in and regain control.¡±


    Rose considered his words, nodding slowly. ¡°Fine. But we need to move quickly. If Jessica resurfaces, Be¡¯s little charade will be the least of our problems.¡±Dr. Parker¡¯s eyes gleamed with a cold determination.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already taken steps to ensure that doesn¡¯t happen. Jessica won¡¯t be a problem for much longer.¡±Luca¡¯s blood ran cold at Parker¡¯s words. Jessica¡¯s life was in danger, and he had to act fast. He couldn¡¯t afford to wait for backup or reinforcements. He needed to get to Jessica before Parker¡¯s team did.


    Just as he was about to retreat into the shadows, he heard Dr. Parker say something that stopped him in his tracks.¡±By the way,¡± Parker continued, his tone casual, ¡°I¡¯ve received confirmation that Jessica wasst spotted outside the city. She¡¯s hiding somewhere, and we¡¯ll flush her out soon enough.¡±Mrs. Rose arched an eyebrow. ¡°Outside the city? How did she manage that?¡±


    ¡°She had help,¡± Parker replied, his voice taking on a darker edge. ¡°Someone¡¯s been protecting her, keeping her hidden. But they can¡¯t hide her forever. We¡¯ll find her. And when we do, we¡¯ll make sure she never has the chance to speak.


    ¡°Luca¡¯s heart raced as he processed the information. Jessica was still alive, but not for long if Parker and Rose had their way. He had to find her first. Back inside the house, Mrs. Rose nced at her watch. ¡°We can¡¯t stay here much longer. I have to return to the mansion before anyone gets suspicious. Be¡¯s already questioning my every move.¡±Parker nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Keep ying along for now. Let her think she¡¯s in control. But remember Rose-our real target is Jessica. Once we eliminate her, everything will fall into ce.


    ¡°As they prepared to leave, Luca moved quickly, slipping away from his hiding spot and into the shadows. His mind was racing. He needed to get to Jessica before they did.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Luca drove through the dark streets, his thoughts spinning as he reyed everything he had heard.  Parker¡¯s people were already on the hunt, and time was running out. He picked up his phone, dialing the only person he trusted with this information.


    ¡°I need your help,¡± Luca said urgently when the line connected. ¡°Jessica¡¯s in danger.  they¡¯re looking for her, but I need backup. We don¡¯t have much time.¡±There was a pause on the other end before the voice replied, ¡°I¡¯m on my way. Don¡¯t do anything reckless, Luca. We¡¯ll get her out of this.¡±Luca ended the call and gripped the steering wheel tightly.


    He wouldn¡¯t let Jessica fall into their hands. Not again. But as the rain began to fall and the city streets blurred in the darkness, Luca couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that he was running out of time.


    Just as Luca¡¯s thoughts reached a fever pitch, his phone buzzed again. This time, it was a message from an unknown number: ¡°You¡¯re toote.¡±His heart stopped.

 Chapter 92

    Mrs. Jessica sat on the edge of the bed, the soft hum of the night surrounding her.


    She could feel the chill in the air, the silence of the room a heavy contrast to the turmoil inside her.


    Once again, she had been rescued, this time by Luca, her unlikely savior.


    The thought of how close she hade to death at Mrs. Rose¡¯s hands haunted her like a persistent shadow.


    For years, she had been running, hiding, and yet, her past ¨C the very thing she had hoped to leave behind had caught up with her.


    Her thoughts drifted to Iris, the daughter who unknowingly led her straight back into the ws of the woman who had once tried to end her life.


    ¡°Why now?¡± she whispered to herself. ¡°Why did it all have toe crashing back now?¡±


    The door creaked open slightly, and the nurse stepped inside quietly, holding a tray with a cup of water and a few medicines. Her voice was gentle andforting.


    ¡°You should rest, Mrs. Jessica. You need your strength.¡±Jessica gave a weak smile and shook her head.


    ¡°I can¡¯t rest. Not after everything. I feel like¡­ like I¡¯m being hunted like they¡¯lle for me at any moment.¡±


    Her voice trembled with the weight of her fear. The nurse sat on the edge of the bed, cing a soft hand on Jessica¡¯s. ¡°You¡¯re safe now. Luca made sure of that. He¡¯s doing everything he can to protect you. Trust him.¡±


    ¡°I do,¡± Mrs. Jessica replied softly. ¡°I just¡­ I can¡¯t shake the feeling that something terrible is about to happen.


    Mrs. Rose won¡¯t stop until she finds me. She¡¯s relentless. And now, because of Iris¡­ I¡¯m exposed again.¡±


    The nurse sighed, her gaze drifting to the window. ¡°Maybe¡­ maybe it¡¯s time to stop running.


    Face them. End this once and for all.¡±Jessica looked away, the fear in her eyes deepening.


    ¡°I¡¯ve tried that before. You don¡¯t understand what she¡¯s capable of. Mrs. Rose has always been one step ahead, and if she finds me, she won¡¯t leave anything unfinished this time.¡±


    The nurse nced at her phone and then looked back at Mrs. Jessica.


    ¡°Let me call Luca. He needs to know how you¡¯re feeling.¡±


    Jessica nodded in agreement, her voice barely a whisper.


    ¡°Please, call him. I don¡¯t want to be alone tonight.¡±


    The nurse quickly dialed Luca¡¯s number, pacing the room as she waited for him to pick up.


    After a few rings, she heard his deep, reassuring voice on the other end. ¡°This is Luca.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s me,¡± the nurse whispered urgently. ¡°Mrs. Jessica is worried. We need you here as soon as possible. She¡¯s feeling unsafe.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m on my way,¡± Luca replied without hesitation. ¡°Stay with her. Make sure she¡¯s okay until I get there. I won¡¯t be long.¡±The nurse hung up, giving Jessica a reassuring nod.


    ¡°He¡¯sing.¡±But just as she slipped the phone back into her pocket, a noise from outside the house made both women freeze.


    The nurse¡¯s eyes darted toward the window, her face going pale. She quickly walked over, pulling the curtain back just enough to peek outside.


    Her heart raced as she spotted unfamiliar figures moving around the perimeter of the house.


    They weren¡¯t Luca¡¯s men. Her voice trembled as she rushed over to Mrs. Jessica. ¡°We¡¯re not alone. There are people outside the house¡­ and it doesn¡¯t look like Luca.¡±


    Jessica¡¯s eyes widened in panic. ¡°What do we do?¡±The nurse grabbed her hand and pulled her toward a hidden doorway behind the bookshelf.


    ¡°There¡¯s a room back here. You¡¯ll be safe. Hide, and don¡¯te out until you hear Luca¡¯s voice.¡±


    Mrs. Jessica hesitated, fear gripping her as the sound of footsteps grew closer outside.


    ¡°What about you? You can hide with me.¡±


    The nurse shook her head, her face determined. ¡°If they catch both of us, it¡¯s over. I need to make sure they don¡¯t find you. Please, just stay quiet, and no matter what you hear, don¡¯te out.¡±


    Jessica clung to the nurse for a moment, her hands shaking. ¡°Please¡­ don¡¯t let them find me.¡±The nurse gave her a sad smile and pushed her into the hidden room, closing the bookshelf behind her just as the sound of a door creaking open echoed through the house.


    Mrs. Jessica crouched in the dark, her heart pounding in her chest. She could hear the muffled sounds of voices, then footsteps ¨C heavy, deliberate.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Her breath hitched as she heard the nurse whispering something, her voice strained, followed by the loud, unmistakable sound of a gunshot.


    Jessica¡¯s hand flew to her mouth to stifle a scream as her heart shattered into a million pieces.


    The nurse¡­ she couldn¡¯t be¡­ Then another shot rang out, followed by silence.


    A suffocating silence. Tears streamed down Jessica¡¯s face as she sobbed quietly in the darkness. She was alone again, trapped in the very nightmare she had tried so hard to escape. Hours passed, though it felt like an eternity.


    Exhaustion and fear had finally overtaken Mrs. Jessica, and she had drifted into a restless sleep. But the sudden sound of a familiar voice jolted her awake.


    ¡°Mrs. Jessica! It¡¯s Luca! Where are you?!¡±Her eyes shot open, her body tense as she strained to listen. Could it be him, or was it a trap? But when she heard his voice again, more urgent this time, her heart dared to hope.


    ¡°Mrs. Jessica, it¡¯s okay. You cane out now.¡±She hesitated, then slowly pushed the hidden door open, peeking through the crack.


    There, standing in the middle of the room, was Luca, his face lined with worry but unmistakably relieved to see her.


    She stumbled out of the hidden space, her legs weak from both fear and relief. ¡°Luca¡­ you¡¯re here.¡±Luca rushed to her side, supporting her before she could copse.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry it took me so long. I came as fast as I could.¡± He nced around the room, his expression darkening.


    ¡°Where¡¯s the nurse?¡±At the mention of the nurse, Mrs. Jessica¡¯s face crumpled. She shook her head, her voice breaking.


    ¡°They¡­ they killed her. I heard the shots.¡±Luca¡¯s jaw tightened, his eyes narrowing with fury.


    ¡°Damn it.¡±Mrs. Jessica gripped his arm, tears streaming down her face. ¡°She was just trying to protect me¡­ She didn¡¯t deserve this.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Luca said softly, his tone grim. ¡°We¡¯ll make sure they pay for what they did.¡± He looked around, his instincts kicking in. ¡°We need to move. This ce isn¡¯t safe anymore.¡±Jessica wiped her tears, her voice trembling.


    ¡°Where will we go? If Mrs. Rose finds out I¡¯m still alive-¡±


    ¡°She won¡¯t,¡± Luca interrupted firmly. ¡°Not if I can help it. I¡¯ve arranged a safe house far from here. It¡¯s off the grid. No one will find us.¡±


    She nodded, trusting himpletely. Luca had saved her twice now, and though fear still gnawed at her, she knew he was her only chance at survival.


    Luca helped her to her feet, his strong arms steadying her as they moved toward the back door. The house was eerily quiet now, the air thick with the aftermath of violence.


    As they stepped outside, the cool night air hit Mrs. Jessica¡¯s face, but the chill that ran down her spine wasn¡¯t from the temperature. She nced over at Luca, her voice barely a whisper.


    ¡°Do you think they¡¯lle after us again?¡±Luca¡¯s expression was unreadable as he led her to the waiting car. ¡°They¡¯ll try,¡± he admitted. ¡°But we¡¯ll be ready.¡±As the car sped away from the house, Mrs. Jessica couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was still terribly wrong.


    They had escaped for now, but Mrs. Rose was relentless, and Luca¡¯s determination, though reassuring, didn¡¯t ease the knot of dread in her stomach.

 Chapter 93

    Luca pulled into the driveway, his heart racing as he saw the front door of the house slightly ajar.


    The house where he had left Mrs. Jessica and the nurse was supposed to be a safe haven, hidden far from the reach of those hunting her.


    Yet, the ominous silence that greeted him screamed that something was wrong.


    Jumping out of the car, he hurriedly made his way inside, his voice echoing through the empty halls. ¡°Mrs. Jessica? Nurse?¡± His heart pounded in his chest as he moved from room to room, seeing the signs of a struggle.


    The furniture was overturned, and there were broken ss and scattered papers everywhere. Fear gnawed at him with each passing second. His breath caught when he finally stumbled upon the lifeless body of the nurse sprawled on the floor.


    Blood pooled beneath her, and her eyes stared vacantly at the ceiling.


    Luca knelt beside her, feeling the weight of the situation crashing down on him.¡±Dammit,¡± he muttered under his breath, shaking his head. She had been so brave, and now she was gone, sacrificed in an effort to keep Mrs. Jessica safe. He stood up, his mind racing.


    ¡°Mrs. Jessica!¡± he called out again, his voice more frantic. He moved toward the study, where he suddenly heard a creaking sound ¨C faint, but unmistakable.


    Luca¡¯s pulse quickened as he approached the door to the study. Slowly, he pushed it open, revealing Mrs. Jessica huddled in a corner, her body trembling with sobs. She was pale, her hair disheveled, and her face streaked with tears.¡±Luca¡­¡± she whimpered as she saw him.


    ¡°They killed her¡­ They¡¯reing for me, Luca. I don¡¯t know what to do. I don¡¯t want to die.¡±He rushed over and knelt beside her, his arms wrapping around her protectively. ¡°I¡¯m here now. You¡¯re safe. I promise you, I won¡¯t let anything happen to you.¡±


    Mrs. Jessica clung to him as if her life depended on it, her sobs quieting, though the fear in her eyes remained. ¡°We have to go,¡± she whispered.


    ¡°They¡¯lle back.¡±Luca nodded, pulling her to her feet gently. ¡°You¡¯re right. We need to move, now.¡± He helped her out of the house and into the car, his mind already formting a n.


    As soon as they were inside, he floored the elerator, speeding down the narrow road that led away from the house. The night was thick around them, the headlights of his car cutting through the darkness.


    But as they drove further, Luca noticed something that made his blood run cold ¨C in the rearview mirror, headlights appeared, gaining on them fast. His heart leaped into his throat.


    They were being followed.¡± Mrs. Jessica,¡± he said, his voice tense, ¡°someone¡¯s behind us. Hold on tight.¡±Her eyes widened in fear as she turned to look out the back window. ¡°No¡­ No, they can¡¯t find me! Please, Luca, don¡¯t let them take me!¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t,¡± Luca assured her, gripping the steering wheel tighter as he pressed harder on the gas pedal. He grabbed his phone with one hand and dialed a number quickly.


    When the call connected, he spoke rapidly. ¡°I need backup. Now. We¡¯re being followed ¨C heading east, out of the city. I¡¯ll send the coordinates. Be quick.¡±He ended the call and focused on the road ahead.


    The car behind them was gaining speed, edging closer. Luca cursed under his breath, weaving in and out ofnes to keep his distance.¡±They¡¯re trying to overtake us,¡± he muttered, his eyes flicking between the road and the mirror.


    ¡°But not today.¡±With a sharp turn, Luca took a detour down a less-traveled route, hoping to lose the tailing car. The vehicle behind swerved as well, trying to keep up, but Luca was faster, pushing the car to its limits.


    Meanwhile, across town¡­ Be leaned against her desk, a devilish smile ying on her lips as she spoke into her phone. ¡°Everything is falling into ce. The Kendricks will be nothing but a memory once this is over. That family has no idea what¡¯sing.¡±She paused, listening to the voice on the other end of the call, thenughed softly.


    ¡°Yes, I have everything under control. Ryan is clueless, and soon, thispany will be mine. They¡¯re too distracted with their own problems to see what¡¯s really happening.¡±


    Unbeknownst to Be, Ryan stood just behind the slightly ajar door, his brows furrowed as he overheard her conversation. His stomach churned as confusion and suspicion gnawed at him.


    Who was Be talking to? And more importantly, who was she nning to destroy? He took a deep breath, trying to gather his thoughts, but his mind was racing. He had trusted Be and believed she had his best interests at heart, but now¡­ Now it sounded like she was plotting something far darker.


    Stepping into the room, Ryan cleared his throat, causing Be to whirl around in surprise. She quickly ended the call and pocketed her phone, stering a smile on her face.¡±Ryan! I didn¡¯t hear youe in.¡± Her tone was sweet, but Ryan could see the flicker of rm in her eyes. He crossed his arms, his voice low and cold.


    ¡°Who were you talking to, Be?¡±Her smile faltered for a split second before sheposed herself. ¡°Oh, just a friend. We were discussing business.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Business? It sounded more like you were talking about destroying someone.¡±Be¡¯s face tightened, but she kept herposure.


    ¡°Ryan, you¡¯re being paranoid. Everything I do is for us, for thispany.¡±Ryan wasn¡¯t convinced.


    ¡°Iris. Who do you want to destroy? You mentioned my family.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    ¡°Be¡¯s eyes widened, and for a moment, panic shed across her face. But she quickly masked it with augh, shaking her head. ¡°Your family? Oh, Ryan, don¡¯t be silly. Why would I want to hurt your family?¡±


    He stared at her, his heart heavy with suspicion and doubt. He wanted to believe her, wanted to trust that she wasn¡¯t betraying him, but the pieces weren¡¯t adding up.


    ¡°Then tell me, Be. What¡¯s going on? You¡¯re acting like there¡¯s some secret n you¡¯re hiding from me.¡±Be¡¯s smile tightened, and she took a step closer to him, her hand resting on his chest. ¡°Ryan, trust me. Everything I¡¯m doing is to protect you, to protect us. You have no idea how dangerous the world can be. But I do. And that¡¯s why you need me.¡±


    Ryan swallowed, his eyes searching hers for the truth. But all he saw was the mask she wore, hiding whatever dark secret was lurking beneath the surface.¡±Are you sure about that?¡± he asked quietly, his voiceced with doubt.


    Be¡¯s eyes gleamed, her smile never faltering. ¡°Absolutely.¡±


    Back on the road¡­ Luca¡¯s car sped down the darkened road, the pursuing vehicle relentless in its chase. The gap between them was closing, and Luca knew it was only a matter of time before they tried something more aggressive.


    Suddenly, the car behind them swerved to the side, pulling up alongside Luca¡¯s car. Mrs. Jessica gasped, her hand clutching the seat as the vehicle edged closer, trying to force them off the road.


    Luca¡¯s jaw clenched as he made a sharp turn, barely avoiding a collision. ¡°Hang on!¡± he yelled, the tires screeching as he pushed the car harder.


    The pursuing car swerved again, this time attempting to ram them. Luca jerked the wheel, dodging the attack, but the road was narrowing, and they were running out of space.


    Just as the car behind prepared to make another move, Luca¡¯s phone buzzed. A voice came through the speaker, loud and clear. ¡°We¡¯ve got eyes on you. Stay on your current path ¨C backup is two minutes out.¡±


    Luca exhaled in relief, but the danger was far from over. The car beside them veered dangerously close, its headlights blinding as it moved in for another strike.


    But Luca was ready. With a final burst of speed, he pulled ahead, leaving the pursuing vehicle struggling to keep up. Just as he rounded a sharp corner, two ck SUVs appeared ahead, blocking the road.


    The car chasing them skidded to a halt, realizing toote that it was caught. Luca smirked, ncing at Mrs. Jessica. ¡°Looks like we¡¯re safe¡­ for now.¡±


    But as they drove past the roadblock, his phone buzzed again with a message that made his blood run cold.


    ¡°You can run, but you can¡¯t hide forever.¡±

 Chapter 94

    Iris sat on the cold floor, her knees pulled tightly to her chest. Her body felt heavy, the small life growing inside her a constant reminder of the situation she couldn¡¯t fully understand.


    Her mind was a fog of confusion, with brief shes of unfamiliar faces and voices that seemed just beyond reach.


    How long had she been locked up in this room? She couldn¡¯t remember. The dim light filtered through the small, barred window, casting shadows on the gray walls.


    She nced around the room-empty except for the old mattress and a broken chair in the corner. There was nothing to aid her escape, no tools to break the window or pry open the door. It felt as though she was trapped in her mind just as much as she was in this prison.


    Who am I? Iris thought to herself as her fingers absentmindedly traced the bump of her belly. She knew she was pregnant-there was no denying the growing life within her-but she didn¡¯t know how or why.


    Was there someone waiting for her outside? Was she married? Was anyone out there looking for her, worrying about her, missing her?¡± I can¡¯t stay here forever,¡± she whispered to herself, her voice hoarse from the days of silence.


    ¡°Someone has to care. Someone has to know I¡¯m gone.¡±But the days passed without change. No footsteps approached the door, no one called her name. She was utterly alone, and the weight of that istion crushed her more with each passing hour.


    But deep inside, she felt a flicker of resistance. She couldn¡¯t let this ce break her. She needed to escape, to find out who she was and why she had been locked away.


    But how? Every avenue of escape seemed impossible. Across town, at the Kendrick Empire¡­ The grand hall of the Kendrick Empire was buzzing with excitement.


    The rebranding event had drawn in dignitaries, celebrities, and powerful business moguls from across the city. Be had meticulously orchestrated every detail, ensuring that the event would solidify her position at the top.


    She had spent weeks making sure everything was perfect. Now, as the final preparations were in ce, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of pride. The newly designed logo for Kendrick Enterprises was gleaned from the banners draped across the hall, and guests were already murmuring their approval.


    Be moved through the room, exchanging pleasantries and shaking hands, her smile sharp and calcted.


    She was the queen of the night, and tonight, she would cement her control over the empire. But her mind wasn¡¯t entirely focused on the event. She nced at her phone, checking her messages every few minutes, as though waiting for something important.


    Her movements were precise, but there was an underlying tension in her eyes-something she was trying to hide beneath the surface. Before leaving for the event, Be had kissed Ryan lightly on the forehead, telling him she¡¯d see himter at the evening g.


    She had smiled sweetly, but Ryan could sense something different, something darker lurking beneath the facade. Her calls, her meetings, and the way she slipped out of the room to speak in hushed tones-it all gnawed at him.


    And now, left alone in the house, he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was wrong.


    At the Kendrick Mansion¡­ Ryan sat at the kitchen table, his thoughts in turmoil. Be¡¯s behavior had be increasingly erratic, and though she had assured him everything was fine, he couldn¡¯t help but feel trapped in a cage.


    Guards were posted at every entrance to the mansion, and every time he tried to leave, they blocked his path, telling him it wasn¡¯t safe. But Ryan wasn¡¯t buying it anymore. He pulled out his phone and made a call.


    ¡°Sarah,¡± he said, his voice low and urgent.¡±Yes, sir?¡± the housekeeper replied.¡±I need you to tell me everything you know about my past,¡± Ryan said, leaning forward. ¡°Who was I before the ident? What happened that night?¡±Sarah hesitated on the other end. ¡°I¡¯ve already told you, sir, it¡¯s the same as what Mrs. Be and your parents have said.


    You were in a terrible ident, and you¡¯ve been recovering since-¡°Ryan cut her off. ¡°Don¡¯t lie to me, Sarah. I know there¡¯s more to it. I need the truth.¡±There was a long pause before Sarah sighed.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sir. I don¡¯t know anything else.¡±Ryan clenched his fists in frustration. ¡°Fine. You can go.¡±After hanging up, Ryan stood up, determination burning in his chest. He wasn¡¯t getting answers from anyone, and Be had made sure to keep him locked inside this gilded cage.


    But he wouldn¡¯t sit back and ept it anymore. Something was being hidden from him, and he was going to find out what.


    He began walking through the house, checking each room as if they might hold the secrets to his past.


    Room after room revealed nothing out of the ordinary. Just as he was about to give up, he found himself in his study. He looked around, and suddenly, blurry shes began to assault his mind-vague images, memories that were just out of focus.


    Ryan¡¯s head spun as he staggered to the bookshelves. His fingers trailed over the spines of the books, his thoughts growing more muddled.


    He sat down in the chair behind his desk, resting his head in his hands, trying to make sense of the shes. Then, something caught his eye.


    He looked down at the wardrobe in the corner of the study-a piece of furniture he had never paid much attention to before. His hand moved almost on instinct, pulling open the wardrobe door. Inside, tucked away in the back, was a briefcase. Ryan¡¯s heart raced as he pulled the briefcase out and ced it on his desk.


    He tried opening it, but the passcode was wrong. He racked his brain for possiblebinations. His eyesnded on a photograph of himself on the wall with a date etched into the frame: 30-08-1994.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    He punched the numbers into the lock, but it didn¡¯t work. He frowned, staring at the numbers. What if I try it backward? With a trembling hand, Ryan reversed the digits and tried again. Click. The briefcase unlocked. He opened it slowly, his breath catching in his throat. Inside was a lingerie set-delicate,cey, and unfamiliar.


    Beneath it were documents-old, yellowed papers that looked like they had been hidden for years. He pulled them out, scanning the top one. It was a marriage certificate. His heart pounded as he read the names: Ryan Kendrick and Iris Rayden. Ryan¡¯s mind reeled. Iris? He had no memory of her, no recollection of a marriage.


    But as he continued flipping through the papers, it became clear-he had been married to her.


    But where was she now? He flipped to thest document, his blood running cold as he read the words scrawled across the bottom: ¡°In the event of my disappearance or death, the estate shall be inherited by my wife, Iris Kendrick.¡±Ryan stared at the paper, the truth crashing down on him.


    Iris had been keeping him in the dark. The guards, the istion-it was all to prevent him from finding out about Iris, from learning that there was another woman tied to his past, a woman who was supposed to inherit everything.


    Meanwhile, at the Kendrick Empire¡­ Be stood on the stage, smiling as the crowd apuded the sessful rebranding of thepany. She felt invincible, on top of the world.


    But her phone buzzed in her hand, and when she nced at the screen, her blood ran cold. It was a message from an unknown number.


    Her heart skipped a beat, but she forced herself to remainposed, her smile never faltering as she pocketed the phone. The walls were closing in around her, but she wasn¡¯t going to let it all fall apart-not now.


    Back at the mansion, Ryan sat in his study, the marriage certificate still clutched in his hand. His entire world had just been turned upside down, and he knew now that he couldn¡¯t trust Be.


    But what did she know about Iris? And where was she? As Ryan stood up, determined to find answers, the door to his study creaked open. Be stood in the doorway, her eyes dark and calcting.¡±Ryan,¡± she said softly, ¡°we need to talk.¡±

 Chapter 95

    Ryan¡¯s fingers trembled as he held the delicate lingerie, the silky fabric triggering something deep within him. The scent that lingered on it was hauntingly familiar, stirring a sense of deja vu so powerful that it sent a shiver down his spine.


    As he pressed the fabric closer to his face, memories began flooding his mind in disjointed shes.


    There was a woman-a stripper. Her face was shadowed by the dim lights of a nightclub, but her eyes sparkled with defiance. ¡°Marry me,¡± he had said to her once.


    The memory hit him like a punch to the gut, and his breath hitched.


    Who is she? Ryan¡¯s head began to throb as more images flickered in his mind: a crowded strip club, the scent of perfume mingled with sweat, the sound of music thumping in the background, and then¡­ that woman again, her lips curled in a seductive smile.


    He could feel her presence, almost tangible, but just as quickly as the memories appeared, they dissolved into nothingness, leaving him with more questions than answers.


    ¡°Who¡­ are¡­ you?¡± Ryan whispered, clutching his head in agony as the images overwhelmed him.


    Suddenly, a sharp pain shot through his skull, and his vision blurred. The room spun violently around him as he staggered backward, copsing to the floor with the lingerie still clutched in his hand.


    Darkness crept in at the edges of his vision, and just before everything went ck, he saw her face again-this time clearer, with her almond-shaped gray eyes staring right at him.


    Back at the Kendrick Empire¡¯s Rebranding Event¡­


    The grand ballroom was alive with the sounds of apuse,ughter, and the clinking of champagne sses.


    Be stood at the center of it all, dressed in a sleek, dark emerald gown that entuated her sharp, statuesque beauty. Her smile was poised and perfect, as she greeted guests, mingled with dignitaries, and schmoozed investors from around the world.


    Beside her, Ryan moved through the crowd like a puppet on strings, his hand resting in Be¡¯s as they made their way through the high society maze.


    To everyone watching, they were the perfect couple-powerful, poised, and in control. But in Ryan¡¯s mind, the illusion had shattered.


    He was only ying along now, and every step he took felt heavier with the weight of the truth he was hiding.


    At one point during the speeches, Ryan slipped away unnoticed, making his way outside where Luca was waiting.


    Luca had been watching the event from the sidelines, careful not to draw too much attention


    When Ryan appeared, Luca¡¯s face lit up in surprise. ¡°Ryan, what¡¯s up? Everything okay?¡±


    Ryan pulled Luca aside, lowering his voice. ¡°I remember everything,¡± he said, the words escaping his mouth like a secret too heavy to bear. ¡°I remember Iris, the stripper¡­ the marriage¡­ you and everything.


    But I don¡¯t want anyone to know. Not yet.¡±Luca¡¯s eyes widened in shock, then turned to excitement.


    ¡°You remember everything? That¡¯s incredible, man! I knew something was off this whole time. So, what¡¯s the n? What are you going to do about Be?¡±


    ¡°Keep pretending,¡± Ryan replied, ncing around to make sure no one was eavesdropping. ¡°I don¡¯t want her or anyone else to suspect that I¡¯ve regained my memory. I need to figure out what her endgame is first¡­ and then expose her when the time is right.¡±


    Luca nodded, his mind already racing with possibilities. ¡°Of course, you can count on me. No one will know. But man, this is huge!¡±


    Ryan grinned slightly. ¡°I know. But we need to y it smart.¡±


    Before Luca could say more, the sound of heels clicking against the marble floor made them both freeze.


    Be was approaching, her sharp eyes scanning the scene. Ryan instantly straightened up, his expression smoothing into an easy smile, the perfect mask of ignorance.


    ¡°Hey honey, there you are!¡± Be called out, her voice lilting with a sweetness that only Ryan could see through. Her eyes flicked to Luca for a brief moment, narrowing slightly as if warning him not to overstep.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been looking everywhere for you.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I just needed some fresh air,¡± Ryan said casually, throwing an arm around Luca¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Ran into Luca out here. He works for thepany, right?¡±


    Be¡¯s smile tightened, though her tone remained light.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right. But we should get back inside. The speeches are about to start, and we can¡¯t afford to miss them.¡±


    She slipped her arm through Ryan¡¯s, pulling him away from Luca. ¡°Enough chit-chat.¡±Ryan allowed himself to be led back into the event, but as they walked, his mind raced. He had to stay ahead of Be, had to make sure she didn¡¯t catch wind of his true intentions.


    He squeezed Luca¡¯s shoulder lightly as they parted ways, signaling his trust in him.


    Luca watched them walk back inside, his heart racing with excitement.


    Finally, Ryan was back, and Be¡¯s reign was about toe to an end. It was only a matter of time.


    Later that Night..


    The rebranding event was winding down, the final speech was given, and thest round of champagne was passed around.


    Be was basking in the sess of the evening, standing in the middle of a crowd of investors and executives,ughing and chatting as if nothing in the world could shake her confidence.


    But beneath her calm exterior, a sliver of unease gnawed at her. Something was off about Ryan.


    His demeanor was too calm, too¡­ controlled.


    She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that he was hiding something from her.¡±


    Ryan, darling,¡± Be said, walking over to him, her hand resting lightly on his arm. ¡°You¡¯ve been quiet all night. Everything okay?¡±Ryan smiled, but it didn¡¯t reach his eyes.


    ¡°Yeah, just tired, I guess. It¡¯s been a long day.¡±Be¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly as she studied him, searching for any cracks in his facade.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    ¡°You¡¯re sure? You¡¯ve seemed a little¡­ distanttely.¡±


    ¡°Just tired, Iris. Nothing more.¡± He kissed her cheek, ying his part perfectly.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to head up to bed early. You should stay and enjoy the rest of the night.¡±Be¡¯s gaze lingered on him for a moment longer before she nodded. ¡°Alright. Don¡¯t wait up for me.¡±Ryan left the ballroom, his mind still buzzing with the revtions from earlier.


    As he walked down the long hallway back to their penthouse suite, his thoughts returned to Iris-the woman he had loved and married.


    The woman Be had somehow erased from his life. And now, he needed to find her.


    Hours Later, in the Quiet of the Night¡­


    Ryan stood in the darkened study once more, the documents spread out before him. His head still throbbed from the earlier barrage of memories, but his determination had only grown stronger.


    Iris was out there somewhere, and she held the key to everything.


    He leaned back in his chair, staring at the marriage certificate again.


    The words seemed to burn into his mind: ¡°In the event of my disappearance or death¡­¡±He traced his fingers over Iris¡¯s name, trying to summon another memory-anything that could help him piece together what had happened to her.


    But the more he thought about it, the more elusive the truth seemed.


    Suddenly, his phone buzzed on the desk, breaking the silence. He nced at the screen and froze. A text message from an unknown number:


    ¡°Iris is alive. Find her before Be does.¡±Ryan¡¯s heart stopped, his mind racing. Who sent this? How did they know?


    Before he could react, the door to the study creaked open, and Be stepped into the room, her eyes dark with suspicion.


    ¡°Ryan,¡± she said softly, her voice tinged with a dangerous edge. ¡°We need to talk.¡±Ryan turned slowly in his chair, meeting her gaze.

 Chapter 96

    Luca quietly opened the door to the guest bedroom in his house, his eyes falling on Mrs. Jessica, who was lying on the bed, looking pale but conscious.


    Her injuries were healing, but the scars of her captivity were evident. She stirred when she heard the door, slowly sitting up as Luca entered the room.


    ¡°How are you feeling today?¡± Luca asked, pulling up a chair beside the bed.¡±Better, thanks to you,¡± Jessica replied softly. Her voice was hoarse, and her eyes carried the weight of someone who had been through unimaginable pain.


    ¡°But¡­ Luca, I need to know about my daughter. You promised to tell me more about Iris.¡±Luca sighed, running a hand through his hair.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time she¡¯d asked about Iris, and he couldn¡¯t bring himself to tell her the whole truth. ¡°Iris is fine, Mrs. Jessica,¡± he assured her, leaning forward. ¡°She can¡¯te to see you right now because¡­ well, she¡¯s being watched closely.


    We have to be careful.¡±Jessica¡¯s face was etched with worry. ¡°But I need to see her, Luca. I¡¯ve been away from her for so long. Does she even know that I¡¯m alive?¡±


    ¡°She knows,¡± Luca said quickly. ¡°She knows, but right now, it¡¯s too dangerous. I promise you, once things settle down, you¡¯ll be able to see her. Just focus on getting better for now.¡±Jessica gave a small nod, though the lines of concern didn¡¯t leave her face. Luca knew she wasn¡¯t fully convinced, but what else could he do?


    There were so many unanswered questions, so many things he needed to understand himself-about Jessica, about her connection to Iris, and about why Mrs. Rose was so determined to keep her out of the picture.


    He stood up, giving her a small smile. ¡°I¡¯ll bring you something to eat, alright? Rest for now.¡±As he turned to leave, Jessica¡¯s voice stopped him.


    ¡°Luca¡­ I know you¡¯re hiding something from me. Please, when you¡¯re ready, tell me everything. I deserve to know what¡¯s going on.¡±Luca paused, his hand resting on the doorframe. He nced back at her, the guilt gnawing at him. ¡°Soon, Mrs. Jessica. I promise.¡±


    Meanwhile, in another part of the city¡­ Ivy paced back and forth in her bedroom, her phone pressed against her ear as she waited for Luca to pick up.


    It had been days since they¡¯d spoken properly, and the distance between them was starting to eat at her. She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was wrong, that Luca was hiding something from her.


    Finally, he answered. ¡°Ivy, hey.¡±


    ¡°Are you ignoring me?¡± Ivy blurted out, not bothering with pleasantries. ¡°Did I do something wrong?¡±Luca sighed on the other end of the line.


    ¡°No, Ivy, it¡¯s not that. I¡¯ve just¡­ I¡¯ve been busy with stuff. A lot of things are going on right now.¡±Ivy frowned, her frustration bubbling to the surface. ¡°Busy with what? I thought we were a thing, Luca. You¡¯ve been so distant, and you¡¯re not telling me anything.¡±


    There was a pause before Luca spoke again. ¡°We are a thing, Ivy. But trust me, a lot is going on that I can¡¯t exin right now. You¡¯ll understand soon, I promise.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not good enough, Luca!¡± Ivy snapped. ¡°You keep pushing me away, and I don¡¯t even know why. How am I supposed to trust you when you¡¯re keeping things from me?¡±


    Luca¡¯s voice softened. ¡°Ivy, it¡¯s not like that. Please, just be patient. You¡¯ll know everything soon. I just¡­ I need more time.¡±


    Before Ivy could respond, Luca hung up the phone, leaving her standing there in stunned silence. She stared at her phone, her heart racing with a mixture of anger and confusion.


    What is he hiding? Ivy wondered, her mind racing. And why wouldn¡¯t he trust her enough to tell her?


    At the Kendrick Mansion¡­ Ryan sat at the edge of the bed, watching Be as she moved through the room, her every action deliberate and calcted.


    She was preparing for another day of running the empire, her expression sharp and focused. But to Ryan, every move she made only fueled his disgust.


    How did I end up with her? he thought bitterly, his jaw clenching. The memories of everything she¡¯d done flooded his mind. The lies, the maniption, the false pregnancy-he now knew it had all been a part of her n. She had never cared about him. It had always been about power, about taking over the Kendrick Empire.


    His hands itched with the urge to confront her, to demand answers. But he knew he had to be patient. If he showed his cards too soon, she would only find a way to slip through his fingers again. He couldn¡¯t afford that. Not this time.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t seen my mom or dad in a while,¡± Ryan said, breaking the silence. ¡°I¡¯d like to visit them. I need to check on my dad¡¯s health.¡±


    Be paused, ncing over her shoulder at him. ¡°Just call them. You can talk to them on the phone.¡±Ryan shook his head, his voice steady. ¡°I can¡¯t talk to Dad on the phone, remember? He¡¯s not doing well. I need to see him in person.¡±


    Be narrowed her eyes, studying him for a moment before sighing. ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll ask the driver to take you.¡±


    ¡°Just the driver is fine,¡± Ryan said quickly, standing up. ¡°I¡¯ll be fine on my own.¡±Be¡¯s gaze lingered on him, suspicion flickering in her eyes, but she nodded. ¡°Okay. But be careful.


    And I¡¯ll have one of the guards follow behind you, just to be safe.¡±Ryan forced a smile. ¡°Sure, whatever makes youfortable.¡±As Be returned to her routine, Ryan clenched his fists. He had to get out of the house without raising too much suspicion.


    He needed to meet Luca, needed to figure out their next move. But Be¡¯s control over him was suffocating. Every step he took felt like walking on a tightrope, and one wrong move could send everything crashing down.


    An Hour Later¡­ Ryan stepped into the car, feeling the weight of Be¡¯s eyes on him as he pulled the door shut.


    The driver, a man Ryan barely recognized, nodded to him through the rearview mirror before pulling out of the driveway.


    Ryan¡¯s mind was racing as the car sped through the city streets. He could see the guard¡¯s car following a few cars behind, just as Be had instructed.


    He needed to lose the tail if he wanted to meet with Luca without Be finding out. As they approached an intersection, Ryan leaned forward.


    ¡°Hey, pull over up ahead. I need to grab something from a store real quick.¡±The driver hesitated but eventually nodded, pulling over to the side of the road.


    As soon as the car came to a stop, Ryan hopped out, quickly ducking into a nearby alley. He moved swiftly, using the narrow alleyways to lose the guard that was tailing him.


    Once he was sure he was in the clear, Ryan pulled out his phone and dialed Luca¡¯s number. ¡°I¡¯m on my way. Meet me at the usual spot.¡±Later, at the Meeting Spot¡­ Luca was already waiting when Ryan arrived, leaning against the hood of his car.


    When he saw Ryan approaching, he straightened up, his expression serious.¡±Everything okay?¡± Luca asked as Ryan stepped out of the shadows.


    Ryan nodded. ¡°I managed to slip away, but we don¡¯t have much time. Be¡¯s going to get suspicious soon.¡±Luca crossed his arms, his eyes scanning Ryan¡¯s face. ¡°You still remembering everything?¡±


    ¡°Every detail,¡± Ryan replied. ¡°And I¡¯m starting to put the pieces together. But we need to move fast, Luca. Be¡¯s nning something, and I don¡¯t know how long I can keep pretending.¡±Luca¡¯s face darkened.


    ¡°What do you want to do?¡±Ryan took a deep breath, his mind racing. ¡°We need to find Iris. If we can find her, we¡¯ll have leverage against Be. I¡¯m sure of it. She¡¯s the key to everything.¡±


    Luca hesitated for a moment, then nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll help you find her, Ryan. But there¡¯s something you need to know.¡±Ryan frowned. ¡°What is it?¡±Luca¡¯s voice dropped to a whisper. ¡°I¡¯ve been hiding Jessica. She¡¯s alive, Ryan.


    And she knows more than we thought.¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes widened, shock flooding his system. ¡°Jessica¡­ alive? Where is she?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s safe,¡± Luca replied quickly. ¡°But we can¡¯t let Be know. Not yet. We need to figure out our next move carefully.¡±


    Before Ryan could respond, his phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out, his heart stopping when he saw the caller ID. It was Be.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.

 Chapter 97

    Ryan stared at his phone, the screen lighting up again with Be¡¯s name shing. His jaw tightened as he declined the call for the second time.


    The relentless buzzing in his pocket wouldn¡¯t stop, but he needed to finish his conversation with Luca. If he didn¡¯t handle this right, everything could spiral out of control.¡±Be¡¯s on to me,¡± Ryan muttered, running a hand through his hair in frustration.


    ¡°She¡¯s calling nonstop.¡±Luca¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°You should get going then. We don¡¯t want her catching on just yet.¡±Ryan nodded, though his mind was still racing with thoughts of Iris.


    He had known she was in trouble, but Luca¡¯s revtions hit harder than expected. Months had passed since her abduction, and with every day that passed, the chances of finding her alive dwindled.


    Yet, somehow, he needed to keep hope alive.¡±We¡¯ll meet again,¡± Ryan said, standing straighter. ¡°There¡¯s more to figure out. I won¡¯t let her get away with this.¡±Luca ced a hand on Ryan¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep digging, but remember: Be can¡¯t know you¡¯re onto her. She¡¯s dangerous, Ryan. You can¡¯t trust her.¡±Ryan offered a grim smile. ¡°I never have.¡±He nced down at his phone again as another call from Be buzzed through.


    With a frustrated sigh, he turned toward his car. ¡°We¡¯ll set up another meeting. I¡¯ll text you the details.¡±


    ¡°Stay sharp,¡± Luca called after him as Ryan climbed into the car, his mind still swirling with the weight of their conversation.


    Back at Be¡¯s Location¡­ Be paced the room, her face contorted in anger as she dialed Ryan¡¯s number for what felt like the hundredth time. When the guards had called her to inform her that they had lost track of him, something inside her snapped.


    ¡°How did you lose him?¡± she screamed, her voice cutting through the phone. ¡°I specifically told you to watch him! Find him! Now!¡±


    The guards had fumbled over their excuses, but Be wasn¡¯t in the mood for exnations.


    She hung up, her fingers trembling with fury as she dialed Ryan again. The call didn¡¯t go through.¡±Damn it, Ryan!¡± she spat, tossing the phone onto the table.


    For the first time, an uneasy feeling gnawed at her. She had always been in control, always a few steps ahead of Ryan. But now, something was off. He wasn¡¯t behaving like his usual self-subdued,pliant.


    He was slipping through her fingers, and she couldn¡¯t afford to let that happen. She picked up the phone again and dialed, her heart racing with a mixture of fury and fear


    . In the Car, Ryan¡­ As Ryan drove toward his father¡¯s mansion, he tried to shake off the feeling of dread that had settled in his gut. He kept one hand on the steering wheel, the other gripping his phone as he navigated through the calls Be had been spamming him with.


    ¡°Dammit,¡± Ryan muttered under his breath. He couldn¡¯t avoid her forever, and thest thing he wanted was for Be to show up at the mansion unexpectedly. He had to y this smart.


    Finally, he sighed and pressed the answer button.¡±Ryan?¡± Be¡¯s voice came through the line, tense with worry and suspicion. ¡°Are you okay? You¡¯ve been ignoring my calls!¡±Ryan forced a casual tone into his voice.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m fine. Sorry about that. I got caught up talking with Dad, and I didn¡¯t realize my phone was on silent.¡±Be¡¯s sharp breath echoed through the phone.


    ¡°I told you to call me as soon as you got there. I was getting worried.¡±Ryan gritted his teeth, keeping his frustration in check. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Be. I¡¯m at Dad¡¯s now, and we¡¯re talking. There¡¯s nothing to worry about.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s switch to a video call,¡± Be demanded, her voice leaving no room for argument. ¡°I want to see you.¡±Ryan¡¯s stomach tightened. He couldn¡¯t afford to look suspicious, not now. ¡°Sure, give me a second.¡±


    He pulled into the long driveway of the mansion, the imposing structure looming ahead. He parked the car and took a deep breath, then switched to video call. The screen flickered for a moment before Be¡¯s face appeared, her eyes narrowed, scanning his surroundings.


    ¡°There,¡± Ryan said, holding up the phone. ¡°See? I¡¯m here.¡±The video revealed Ryan standing in front of his father¡¯s mansion, the grand pirs and manicuredwn in the background.


    He kept the camera steady, making sure not to reveal anything that might make Be question him further.


    Be¡¯s eyes softened, but there was still an edge in her voice. ¡°You scared me, Ryan. I didn¡¯t know where you were. You know how important it is to keep me informed, especially now.¡±


    Ryan forced a smile. ¡°I know, I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s just¡­ with Dad¡¯s health and everything, I got distracted.¡±Is he inside?¡± Be asked, her eyes still scanning his face as if trying to detect a lie.¡±Yeah, I¡¯m about to head in now,¡± Ryan replied.


    ¡°We¡¯re going to talk for a bit. I¡¯ll call you after, alright?¡±Be hesitated for a moment, then nodded. ¡°Okay. Just don¡¯t take too long. And remember, I want you home tonight.¡±


    ¡°Got it. See you soon.¡± Ryan ended the call before she could push further, letting out a breath he didn¡¯t realize he¡¯d been holding.


    His hands were shaking slightly as he lowered the phone. He knew Be wasn¡¯t buying the story entirely. She was suspicious, but for now, he had bought himself a little more time.


    Time he needed to figure out the next move with Luca. Inside the Mansion¡­ Ryan walked into the familiar halls of the mansion, his footsteps echoing softly against the marble floors.


    The mansion felt different now, colder somehow, without the warm presence of his father in his usual spot. Ryan approached the grand staircase, heading toward his father¡¯s room.


    Thest time he¡¯d seen his dad, he had been weak, barely able to speak. A part of Ryan dreaded what he might find now.


    As he reached the door, he knocked lightly before stepping inside. His father, Mr. Kendrick, was sitting up in bed, looking frail but alert.


    His eyes brightened slightly when he saw Ryan.¡±Son,¡± Mr. Kendrick said, his voice hoarse but steady. ¡°It¡¯s good to see you.¡±Ryan forced a smile as he approached the bed. ¡°How are you feeling, Dad?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been better,¡± Mr. Kendrick admitted, his expression softening. ¡°But I¡¯m still here, fighting. And that¡¯s what matters.¡±Ryan nodded, sitting beside his father. ¡°There¡¯s something I need to talk to you about.¡±


    Mr. Kendrick raised an eyebrow. ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡±Ryan hesitated for a moment before speaking, his voice low. ¡°It¡¯s Be. I don¡¯t trust her, Dad. She¡¯s been¡­ differenttely. And I think she¡¯s hiding something.¡±Mr. Kendrick¡¯s brow furrowed.


    ¡°Be? What could she be hiding?¡±Ryan nced around, lowering his voice even more. ¡°I think she¡¯s involved in something bigger than we realize. I¡¯ve been looking into things, and there¡¯s¡­ there¡¯s something off about her.¡±


    Mr. Kendrick leaned back against the pillows, his eyes narrowing as he studied his son. ¡°What are you saying, Ryan?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m saying that Be might not be who she says she is,¡± Ryan replied, his heart pounding in his chest. ¡°And I¡¯m going to find out the truth. But I need your support, Dad.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Mr. Kendrick was silent for a long moment, his gaze locked on Ryan¡¯s. Finally, he spoke. ¡°You be careful, Ryan. If Be is hiding something, then you need to be smart about this. Don¡¯t make any rash decisions.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t,¡± Ryan promised. ¡°But I¡¯m not going to let her manipte us any longer.¡±Mr. Kendrick nodded slowly.


    ¡°Do what you have to do, son. But remember, this family is more important than anything else.¡±Ryan nodded, determination hardening his resolve. ¡°I will.¡±


    Later that Night¡­ Ryan returned home just as Be had instructed, keeping up the facade of normalcy.


    As he stepped inside, Be was sitting in the living room, her eyes immediately locking onto him.


    Her expression was unreadable, but Ryan could sense the tension in the air.¡±Did you have a good talk with your father?¡± Be asked, her voice calm, but there was an underlying sharpness to it.


    Ryan nodded, keeping his tone casual. ¡°Yeah, he¡¯s doing okay. We had a good conversation.¡±Be studied him for a moment, her fingers tapping lightly on the armrest.


    ¡°Good. I¡¯m d.¡±She stood up, walking toward him slowly. ¡°But next time, Ryan, don¡¯t make me worry like that. You know how much I care about you.¡±Ryan forced a smile, though his skin crawled under her gaze. ¡°I won¡¯t. I¡¯m sorry for earlier.¡±


    Be¡¯s eyes flickered with something he couldn¡¯t quite ce. She reached up, resting a hand on his cheek. ¡°I just want to make sure we¡¯re always honest with each other.


    No more secrets.¡±Ryan swallowed hard, his heart pounding in his chest. ¡°Of course.¡±Be¡¯s smile widened, but it didn¡¯t reach her eyes. ¡°Good.¡±


    As she turned away, Ryan felt the weight of her words sink in. He knew she wasn¡¯t done. Be was onto him, and this was only the beginning.

 Chapter 98

    Rose paced the dimly lit room, her manicured nails tapping against her phone as she waited for Parker to finish speaking. She could hear the anxiety in his voice as he ryed thetest news about Jessica¡¯s sudden disappearance.


    The air in the room felt heavy with the tension that had been building for weeks.¡±How did they move her before we got there?¡± Rose hissed, her eyes narrowing.


    ¡°You said the team was following the n. What happened?¡±Parker, seated on the edge of the bed, sighed deeply, running a hand through his graying hair.


    ¡°They told me they arrived at the location, but she was gone. The only person they found was a nurse who refused to give any information. Whoever¡¯s behind this is sharp, Rose. They¡¯re staying one step ahead of us.¡±


    Rose clenched her jaw, her anger simmering just below the surface. ¡°We need to outsmart them. Whoever is orchestrating this is too fast and too organized. Jessica should have been in our hands by now.¡±Parker nodded, his face drawn in concentration.


    ¡°We¡¯ll have to reassess the situation. Whoever¡¯s protecting her isn¡¯t doing this alone. There¡¯s a lot of money and influence behind them.¡±


    Rose sat down on the couch, her mind racing.


    Jessica had been a problem for years, but she had never been this elusive. And now, with the family empire at stake, Rose couldn¡¯t afford any loose ends. Not with everything she and Parker had been nning. She nced at Parker, her expression hardening.


    ¡°What about the pills you gave me for him?¡± she asked, lowering her voice. ¡°I¡¯ve been slipping them into his food as you instructed, but I haven¡¯t seen any signs that they¡¯re working,¡± Parker smirked, the corners of his lips curling with a dark satisfaction.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Rose. The effects of the medication are subtle at first, but they¡¯ll show soon enough. He¡¯ll weaken gradually, and by the time it fully hits him, he won¡¯t even realize what¡¯s happening.


    Just keep administering it as I prescribed.¡±Rose crossed her arms, still unconvinced. ¡°He¡¯s still strong. Too strong. And sharp. It¡¯s like he knows something¡¯s up.¡±


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t,¡± Parker said firmly, locking eyes with her. ¡°Trust me, Rose. He¡¯s been drinking the poison I gave you for weeks now. His mind and body will start deteriorating soon. Patience is key.¡±


    Rose leaned back, staring up at the ceiling. ¡°I don¡¯t have much patience left, Parker. If this doesn¡¯t work, if he doesn¡¯t start to show signs soon, we¡¯ll have to find another way.¡±


    Parker stood up, stepping closer to her. ¡°It will work. You¡¯ve alreadye this far. Stay the course. Once we have control of everything, no one will be able to stop us.¡±


    Rose inhaled sharply, nodding slowly. ¡°Fine. But we need to find out who moved Jessica and where they took her. If she¡¯s still alive, she¡¯s a threat.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll double our efforts,¡± Parker promised. ¡°We¡¯ll find her.


    ¡°Elsewhere, in Be¡¯s world¡­ Be lounged in a high-back leather chair, staring at the expansive city skyline through the floor-to-ceiling windows.


    She held her phone to her ear, her expression calm but focused. Across the line was her brother, Victor, the mastermind behind their next move.


    ¡°Are you sure about this?¡± Be asked, her tone cool and calcted. ¡°Doing this to the Kendrick Empire is a huge step. The name carries too much weight. People will notice.¡±Victor¡¯s deep voice crackled through the speaker, full of certainty.


    ¡°Exactly. That¡¯s why we need to move fast. Kendrick Empire is a legacy, but it¡¯s outdated. Vector Empire will be new, dynamic, and entirely under our control. We can do whatever we want with it-change everything, reshape it to our vision.¡±


    Be smiled faintly, her nails tapping rhythmically against her desk. ¡°I like the sound of that. We¡¯ve waited too long for this moment. But you know Ryan won¡¯t let go of his birthright easily.¡±


    ¡°He won¡¯t have a choice,¡± Charles replied smoothly. ¡°Ryan¡¯s too preupied with his father¡¯s health.


    He doesn¡¯t have the leverage he used to. And with the rumors we¡¯ve been spreading, people will start to question his ability to lead.¡±


    Be¡¯s eyes gleamed with satisfaction. ¡°True. It¡¯s only a matter of time before the board starts pressuring him. When the rebrand happens, they¡¯ll see that Vector Empire is stronger, more profitable, and led by a true visionary.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll present the new n to the board next week,¡± Charles continued. ¡°Once we have their backing, Ryan will be out of the picture for good. The timing is perfect.¡±Be bit her lip, considering the next steps.


    ¡°I want to be there when you reveal the new logo and branding. It¡¯s important that I¡¯m seen as the face of this change. Ryan has been too absent and too distracted. The investors need to see that I¡¯m in control now.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll be there,¡± Victor confirmed. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of the details. You just need to keep Ryan distracted until everything is finalized.¡±


    Be smirked. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about him. He¡¯s too busy trying to figure out what¡¯s going on. He won¡¯t see thising.¡±There was a pause on the other end, and then Victor spoke again, his tone more serious.


    ¡°And Be¡­ we need to be cautious about Luca. He¡¯s been too close to Ryan recently. I don¡¯t trust him.¡±Be¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Luca¡¯s loyalty has always been questionable. But don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll handle him. He won¡¯t be a problem for long.¡±


    ¡°Good. I don¡¯t want any loose ends, Be. Not this time.¡±


    ¡°There won¡¯t be,¡± Be said, her voice cold and final. ¡°When this is over, the Kendrick Empire will be ours, and no one will be able to stop us.¡±


    Later that evening at the Kendrick Mansion¡­ Ryan sat in his father¡¯s study, staring at the fire crackling in the hearth. His father had already gone to bed, but Ryan¡¯s mind was far from resting.


    His conversation with Luca earlier reyed in his head like a broken record.


    Iris was still missing, and every day that passed made his gut churn with dread. He had to find her, had to save her. But the more he tried, the more tangled the situation became


    . And then there was Be. Her behavior had been growing more erratic and more controlling. He couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that she was hiding something from him.


    Something big. His phone buzzed on the table, snapping him out of his thoughts. It was a message from Luca.


    Luca: ¡°I¡¯ve got more info on Be¡¯s ns. Meet me tomorrow at the usual spot.¡±Ryan frowned, a sense of unease creeping over him. He typed a quick reply.


    Ryan: ¡°Be careful. Be¡¯s been watching me closely.¡±He set the phone down, running a hand over his face. His father¡¯s empire was slipping through his fingers, and he couldn¡¯t let that happen. Not now, not with everything at stake.


    A knock on the door made him look up. Be stepped into the room, her heels clicking softly against the polished wood floor. She was dressed in a sleek, form-fitting ck dress, her eyes glinting in the low light.


    ¡°Ryan,¡± she said softly, her voice smooth like honey. ¡°I thought I¡¯d find you here.¡±? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    He gave her a tight smile, trying to mask his unease. ¡°Just thinking.


    ¡°Be walked over to him, her hand gently resting on his shoulder. ¡°You¡¯ve been so stressedtely. You need to take care of yourself.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Ryan replied, though the tension in his voice was hard to hide.


    Be¡¯s hand slid down his arm, her fingers tracing his skin lightly.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to do this alone, you know. I¡¯m here for you.¡±


    Ryan studied her, his mind racing. She was ying a game, he could feel it. But the question was, how deep did her deception go?


    ¡°I appreciate that,¡± Ryan said carefully. ¡°But I¡¯ve got it under control.¡±


    Be¡¯s eyes flickered, and for a brief moment, her mask slipped. He could see the calcting look behind her soft smile.


    ¡°You¡¯ve always been so stubborn,¡± she whispered, leaning closer. ¡°But I know you, Ryan. I know when something¡¯s bothering you.¡±


    Ryan tensed, sensing the trap she was setting. ¡°I¡¯m just worried about Dad.


    .¡±Be¡¯s lips curved into a small smile. ¡± Don¡¯t worry about him, he¡¯s going to be fine.¡±


    Ryan studied her, his stomach knotting.


    ¡°I have a feeling everything will work out in the end.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s eyes darkened, suspicion gnawing at him. There was something in the way she said it, something that made him wonder if Be knew more than she was letting on.


    Before he could press further, Be straightened up, brushing a hand through her hair. ¡°You should get some rest.


    Tomorrow¡¯s a big day for thepany.¡±As she turned to leave, Ryan called after her.


    ¡°Be?¡±She paused at the doorway, ncing over her shoulder. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re hiding something from me¡­ I¡¯ll find out.¡±Be¡¯s smile didn¡¯t reach her eyes.


    ¡°Goodnight, Ryan.¡±And with that, she disappeared into the hallway, leaving.

 Chapter 99

    Ryan sat at the head of his father¡¯s old mahogany desk, tapping a pen absently on the table.


    The fire crackling in the nearby firece did little to ease the chill in his veins. The room felt colder, darker, ever since his father had fallen ill and Be had begun tightening her grip on the Kendrick empire.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Victor Empire now, he thought bitterly. The name change had been swift, too swift for his liking.


    He knew Be and her brother, Victor, had ns of their own, but something about their rise to power, their sudden control, didn¡¯t sit right with him.


    Ryan wasn¡¯t blind-he had seen the signs and heard the whispers within thepany.


    Be and Victor were ying a dangerous game, and he intended to find out exactly what that game was. His phone buzzed on the desk, pulling him out of his thoughts.


    It was Luca. Luca: ¡°I have something. Meet me in 30 minutes. ¡°Ryan stared at the message for a moment, feeling his heart rate spike. Luca had been helping him dig into Be¡¯s past for weeks now. So far, they had turned up nothing solid.


    But this message¡­ it felt different. Ryan stood up, grabbed his coat, and headed for the door. It was time to get some answers. Ryan pulled up to the small, secluded cafe where he had agreed to meet Luca.


    It waste, the streets nearly empty, and the quietness of the night only amplified his growing unease. Luca was already waiting at a corner table, his eyes scanning the room cautiously.


    When Ryan approached, Luca leaned in, lowering his voice immediately. ¡°You won¡¯t believe what I found,¡± Luca began, pulling out a folder from his jacket and sliding it across the table to Ryan. Ryan opened the folder, his eyes narrowing as he took in the documents inside.


    Financial records, offshore ounts, and shellpanies are all linked back to Victor D¡¯Amato.


    ¡°Victor?¡± Ryan asked, his voice a sharp whisper. ¡°What is all of this?¡± Luca nodded grimly. ¡°Victor D¡¯Amato isn¡¯t just Be¡¯s brother.


    He¡¯s been running scams for years. Before he got involved with thepany, he wasundering money for some big yers. That¡¯s why they rebranded so quickly. They¡¯re funneling Kendrick assets into his shellpanies.¡± Ryan felt a chill run down his spine as the weight of Luca¡¯s words sank in.


    ¡°They¡¯re using Vector as a front?¡±Luca nodded. ¡°And it gets worse. I looked into Be¡¯s past, too. She¡¯s not who she says she is. She¡¯s been in and out of shady business dealings her whole life. ¡±


    Ryan felt like the ground had shifted beneath him. His mind raced as he processed the information. ¡°Why would she do this? What¡¯s the endgame?¡±Luca leaned in closer, his eyes intense.


    ¡°Money and power. That¡¯s the endgame. She and Victor are positioning themselves to take full control of the empire, drain it dry, and disappear.¡± Ryan clenched his fists, his jaw tightening.


    ¡°I knew something was off with Be, but this¡­ this is worse than I imagined. We have to stop them before they destroy thepany.¡± Luca nced around nervously. ¡°We have to be careful. If they find out we¡¯re onto them, they¡¯lle after us.¡±


    Ryan nodded grimly. ¡°We need more proof. Something concrete we can take to the board.¡± Luca smirked and pulled out a USB drive from his pocket.


    ¡°Already ahead of you. I hacked into Be¡¯s private emails. There¡¯s a lot in there. Emails to Victor¡¯s ns for siphoningpany funds, discussions with offshore bankers¡­ enough to bury them both.¡±


    Ryan took the USB drive, his hands steady despite the storm of emotions raging inside him. ¡°This is it. This is what we need.¡±Luca nced at his watch. ¡°We can¡¯t move too fast. We need to gather everything and hit them when they least expect it.¡± Ryan agreed.


    ¡°We¡¯ll y it smart. But first, I need to confront Be. I want to see how far she¡¯s willing to go.¡±


    Later that night, Ryan returned to the mansion, the USB drive burning a hole in his pockets. He found Be sitting in the living room, a ss of red wine in her hand, her eyes fixed on the fire.


    She looked calm, almost too calm, as if she had everything under control.


    But Ryan knew better now.¡±Be,¡± he said as he entered the room. She looked up, smiling softly. ¡°Ryan, you¡¯re homete. Everything okay?¡±


    Ryan sat across from her, his gaze steady, searching. ¡°We need to talk.¡±Be¡¯s smile faltered just slightly, but she maintained herposure.


    ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡±Ryan leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees. ¡°You¡¯ve been busytely. I haven¡¯t seen much of you since the rebranding.¡± Be took a sip of her wine, her expression unreadable.


    ¡°There¡¯s been a lot to manage with thepany. You know that. I¡¯m just trying to make sure everything runs smoothly.¡± Ryan nodded slowly.


    Be¡¯s phone buzzed in her hand. She nced at it, and a sinister smile spread across her face. But something was different today.


    As she busied herself, Ryan noticed her asionally nce toward a particr drawer in the hallway.


    A look of uncertainty flickered across her face every time she passed it. Curiosity gnawed at him. What was in that drawer that made her so anxious?¡± How¡¯s everything at thepany?¡± he asked, trying to sound casual. ¡°You¡¯ve been working so hardtely.¡±


    Be paused for a moment, then smiled. ¡°Everything¡¯s fine. Just a lot of paperwork and meetings with investors. We¡¯re nning a big rebrandingunch next month. It¡¯s going to be a huge event.¡±


    As Be turned and headed for the kitchen, Ryan¡¯s eyes drifted back to the drawer in the hallway. His gut told him that whatever was inside could hold answers-answers Be didn¡¯t want him to have.


    Later that night, after Be had fallen asleep, Ryan slipped out of bed quietly. He crept down the hall, careful not to make a sound.


    The house was dark, except for the faint glow of moonlight streaming through the windows. He reached the drawer Be had been eyeing earlier and hesitated for a moment, his heart pounding.


    What if he found something he didn¡¯t want to see? What if Be was right, and his mind was protecting him from something worse? But the doubt in his mind had be too loud to ignore. Slowly, he pulled the drawer open.


    At first, it appeared to be filled with ordinary papers but tucked beneath them was a small, leather-bound journal. His hands trembled as he lifted it out. He flipped through the pages, his eyes widening as he read the entries.


    The sound of footsteps echoed down the hall, and Ryan quickly shoved the journal back into the drawer, his heart pounding.¡±Ryan?¡± Be¡¯s voice called softly. He turned around, forcing a calm smile. ¡°Yeah?¡±


    Be appeared at the end of the hallway, her eyes narrowing slightly. ¡°What are you doing out here?¡± ¡°Just couldn¡¯t sleep,¡± Ryan said, trying to keep his voice steady.


    ¡°I was getting some water.¡± Be¡¯s gaze flickered to the drawer, but she said nothing. Instead, she smiled, though it didn¡¯t quite reach her eyes. ¡°Come back to bed, love. You need your rest.¡±Ryan nodded, following her back down the hallway, but his mind was already racing ahead.


    The journal had cracked open a door to a past he didn¡¯t fully remember, but now, more than ever, he needed answers. As Be climbed into bed beside him, Ryany awake, staring at the ceiling. If Be had been lying about Iris, what else had she lied about?


    He couldn¡¯t confront her yet, not without more proof. But the doubt had taken root, and there was no going back now. The next morning, Ryan woke up early, determined to start uncovering the truth.


    But as he got dressed, Be stepped into the room, her eyes sharp.¡±Ryan, where are you going?¡± she asked, her tone suspicious. Ryan forced a smile. ¡°I was thinking maybe I coulde to the office today. Help out a little.¡±


    Be¡¯s eyes narrowed, and for a moment, there was a sh of something cold in her gaze. ¡°I told you, Ryan, you¡¯re not ready for that.¡± Ryan nodded slowly, but the seed of doubt had already grown.


    ¡°Maybe you¡¯re right,¡± he said, though his mind was already racing with ns. Be smiled, leaning in to kiss him on the cheek. ¡°You¡¯ll thank meter.¡±


    As Be left for the office, Ryan sat back down, his mind buzzing with questions. He needed to know the truth. And he wasn¡¯t going to stop until he uncovered it.


    Ryan rushed to the window, watching as Be¡¯s car pulled away from the mansion. His mind raced, adrenaline pumping through his veins. He knew now that Be and Victor were moving faster than he¡¯d anticipated.


    He couldn¡¯t wait any longer. But just as he turned to make a call, his phone buzzed again. This time, it was Luca. Luca: ¡°Ryan, we¡¯ve got a problem. We need to meet. Now.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s blood ran cold. Be had just left, but Luca¡¯s message confirmed his worst fear. Be and Victor weren¡¯t just nning to take over thepany-they were nning something much, much worse. And Ryan was running out of time.

 Chapter 100

    The house was eerily quiet as Ryan sat in the sunlit living room. The rays filtered through the curtains, but their warmth did little to lift the fog that clouded his mind.


    He ran his fingers through his hair, frustrated. It had been weeks of the same routine. Be left early for the office, and he was confined to the house.


    The walls seemed to close in on him more and more each day. ¡°Rest,¡± she kept saying. ¡°You need to rest and fully heal.¡±But he felt fine. His body was stronger. His mind? That was another story.


    He couldn¡¯t shake the shes, those brief moments of rity when another version of his life danced before his eyes, only to vanish like smoke.


    His thoughts were interrupted by the creak of the front door. Be stepped inside, dressed immactely as always, her high heels clicking against the marble floor.


    She smiled when she saw him, but there was something behind her eyes. Something he couldn¡¯t quite ce.¡± Ryan, love,¡± she called, setting her bag on the counter. ¡°You look exhausted.


    Have you been resting like I told you?¡±Ryan stood up from the couch, his jaw clenched in frustration.


    ¡°Iris, I can¡¯t do this anymore. I¡¯m tired of staying home all day. I feel like a prisoner in my own house.¡±Be walked toward him, her eyes softening with concern. She reached out, gently cing a hand on his arm.


    ¡°I know it¡¯s frustrating, Ryan, but you need to focus on getting better. The doctor said-¡± ¡°To rest, I know,¡± he interrupted, pulling away from her.


    ¡°But I feel fine. More than fine. I should be at the office with you, helping out.¡± Be frowned, a slight edge creeping into her voice. ¡°Ryan, you¡¯re not ready. You think you are, but you¡¯re not. Your memory is still fragile. What if the stress triggers something worse? I don¡¯t want to lose you again.¡±


    Ryan sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. ¡°I just¡­ I don¡¯t understand why you¡¯re so afraid of me going back. You¡¯ve told me thepany is doing well under your control. What¡¯s the harm in meing with you?¡± Be¡¯s face softened again, but there was a flicker of irritation in her eyes.


    ¡°Ryan, it¡¯s not about harm. It¡¯s about your well-being. Thest thing I want is for you to rpse. You¡¯vee so far. Just trust me a little longer, okay?¡± Ryan nodded, but the doubt inside him grew stronger with each passing day.


    ¡°Fine,¡± he muttered. ¡°But I¡¯m not staying locked in this house anymore.¡± Be smiled as if she¡¯d won a small victory. She cupped his face and kissed his forehead.


    ¡°I know you won¡¯t, and soon enough, we¡¯ll be running thepany together. But for now, let me handle it, alright? You¡¯ll have plenty of time to dive back into the chaos once you¡¯re fully recovered.¡±


    He forced a smile and sat back down, watching her as she moved around the house, tidying things up as she always did.


    Your mother, Mrs. Rose¡­ she¡¯s been lying to you. To all of us. She¡¯s not who she pretends to be.¡± Ivy¡¯s blood ran cold. ¡°What are you saying?¡± she demanded, her voice trembling with anger.


    ¡°I¡¯m saying that Mrs. Rose has been manipting everything,¡± Luca said, his eyes locking onto hers. ¡°She¡¯s the reason Ryan is in that hospital bed. She¡¯s been working with Dr. Parker to keep him out of the way to keep him from discovering the truth.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s heart pounded in her chest as she tried to process Luca¡¯s words. ¡°What truth?¡± she asked, her voice shaking. ¡°What does Ryan have to do with any of this?¡±Luca¡¯s expression darkened.


    ¡°Everything, Ivy.  Your mum had an affair with Dr. Parker. She¡¯s been trying to keep it hidden. ¡°Ivy¡¯s mind reeled at the revtion. Everything she had believed about her family, her brother, was a lie.


    ¡°You¡¯re lying,¡± she whispered, tears welling up in her eyes. ¡°This can¡¯t be true.¡± ¡°I wish I was lying,¡± Luca said softly, his voice filled with regret. ¡°But it¡¯s the truth, Ivy. And now that you know, you¡¯re in danger too.¡±Ivy shook her head, refusing to believe what she was hearing.


    ¡°No,¡± she said, her voice rising. ¡°This can¡¯t be happening. My mother¡­ she wouldn¡¯t¡­¡± ¡°She would,¡± Luca said firmly, cutting her off. ¡°She¡¯s done worse. And she won¡¯t hesitate to get rid of anyone who stands as a threat to her if she thinks you¡¯re a threat.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s legs felt like they were going to give out beneath her. She stumbled back, copsing into one of the armchairs, her mind racing. ¡°Why are you telling me this?¡± she asked, her voice barely audible.¡±Because I care about you, Ivy,¡± Luca said, stepping closer.


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t stand by and watch as you were kept in the dark. You deserve to know the truth-so you can protect yourself.¡± Ivy looked up at Luca, her vision blurred by tears. ¡°What do I do now?¡± she asked, her voice trembling with fear and uncertainty.¡±We take them down,¡± Luca said, his voice steady and determined.


    ¡°We expose Mrs. Rose and Dr. Parker for who they are. But we have to be careful-they¡¯re dangerous, and they won¡¯t go down without a fight.¡±


    A spark of anger red in Ivy¡¯s chest, mingling with the fear that had been consuming her. She had been betrayed by the people she trusted most, and now she wanted nothing more than to make them pay for what they had done.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± she said, her voice filled with resolve. ¡°We¡¯ll make them pay. But how?¡± Luca nodded, pleased to see the fire returning to Ivy¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°First, we gather evidence,¡± he said. ¡°We need proof of what they¡¯ve done. ¡°And then, we use it to destroy them.¡±Ivy¡¯s mind raced with possibilities as she tried to think of a way to uncover the truth.


    ¡°What about Ryan?¡± she asked, her voice filled with concern. ¡°Is he safe?¡± ¡°For now,¡± Luca replied, his expression grim. ¡°But we need to act fast. If Mrs. Rose realizes that he¡¯s waking up and might remember everything, she¡¯ll try to finish what she started.¡± Ivy clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms.


    ¡°She won¡¯t get away with this,¡± she said through gritted teeth. ¡°I won¡¯t let her.¡± Luca ced a reassuring hand on her shoulder. ¡°We¡¯re in this together, Ivy,¡± he said. ¡°We¡¯ll take them down-one way or another.¡±


    As Ivy looked into Luca¡¯s eyes, she felt a sense of determination wash over her. For the first time in weeks, she felt like she had control over her life again.


    She had been knocked down and betrayed by the people she loved, but now she was ready to fight back. ¡°We need to be smart about this,¡± Ivy said, her voice steady. ¡°We can¡¯t just go in guns zing. We need a n.¡±Luca nodded in agreement. ¡°I have a few ideas,¡± he said, his voice thoughtful.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°But we¡¯ll need to move quickly. The longer we wait, the more dangerous it bes.¡±Ivy took a deep breath, her mind racing as she tried to piece together a n.


    ¡°We need to get close to them,¡± she said. ¡°Pretend like we don¡¯t know anything, and use that to our advantage.¡± Luca¡¯s eyes lit up with approval. ¡°Exactly,¡± he said.


    ¡°We y the long game-gain their trust, make them think we¡¯re on their side. And when the time is right, we strike.¡±Ivy nodded, feeling a sense of satisfaction as the n began to take shape in her mind.


    ¡°We¡¯ll need to be careful,¡± she said. ¡°One wrong move and it could all fall apart.¡±Luca¡¯s expression was serious as he replied, ¡°I know. But we¡¯re smart-we can do this.


    And when it¡¯s all over, we¡¯ll be the ones standing.¡±A sense of camaraderie settled between them as they finalized their n.


    For the first time in a long while, Ivy felt like she had someone she could trust-someone who was on her side. It was a fragile alliance, built on a foundation of shared goals and mutual distrust, but it was enough to give her hope.


    As they discussed the details, the sound of footsteps echoed in the hallway outside the library. Ivy and Luca exchanged a nce, their conversation halting as they listened.


    The footsteps grew louder and closer until they stopped just outside the door. Ivy¡¯s heart raced, her mind instantly going to Mrs. Rose. Had she overheard them? Was their n already in jeopardy?

 Chapter 101

    Be sat in her sleek new office at the top of the Kendrick tower-now rebranded as Vector Empire.


    She gazed out the floor-to-ceiling windows, looking over the city as it shimmered under the midday sun.


    A sense of triumph washed over her. She had nearly everything she ever wanted: the power, thepany, and control over the entire Kendrick fortune.


    Yet, as she swirled the ss of wine in her hand, the victory felt hollow.


    ¡°If only Ryan had loved me,¡± she muttered to herself. ¡°None of this would¡¯ve been necessary.¡±Her mind wandered back to that fateful night, the night that had set everything into motion.


    It was the night she had finally decided to take control of her destiny and cement her position in Ryan¡¯s life-by any means necessary.


    She had asked him out for lunch that day, trying to act casual, like the friend who had always been by his side.


    Ryan had been distracted, his thoughts clearly elsewhere, but Be had insisted. ¡°You¡¯ve been so stressed with everything going on, Ryan,¡± she had said, her voice sweet and soothing.


    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s just take a break. It¡¯s only lunch.¡±He had hesitated at first but eventually agreed.


    They went to one of his favorite restaurants, and she made sure everything was perfect-his favorite dishes, his favorite wine.


    She knew exactly how to keep himfortable, how to slip him into a rxed state.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    After lunch, when she suggested having a few more drinks, Ryan had been reluctant.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got a lot to do,¡± he had said, rubbing his temples. But Be had persisted, ordering his favorite whiskey strong, smooth, and deadly.


    ¡°Just one more drink,¡± she had purred, cing her hand on his. ¡°For old times¡¯ sake,¡± Be smirked as she remembered how smoothly everything had gone.


    It hadn¡¯t taken long for the alcohol to work its magic. Ryan, always so in control, had started to loosen up,ughing and chatting with her in a way he hadn¡¯t done in months.


    She had watched his defenses crumble as he became more and more intoxicated.


    By the time they left the restaurant, Ryan could barely stand. Be had taken full control, helping him into a cab and taking him back to her apartment instead of his.


    He had been too drunk to even notice.


    Once inside, she had carefully undressed him, making sure to be methodical-removing his shirt, his shoes, and his belt.


    She hadid him down on her bed, his mind already lost to the alcohol. Then she had stripped herself, leaving her clothes scattered across the room to make the scene look convincing.


    Of course, nothing had actually happened between them that night. Ryan had been far too drunk to do anything, and Be wasn¡¯t foolish enough to push her luck.


    But she didn¡¯t need him to remember what did or didn¡¯t happen. She only needed him to believe it.


    So, with a smirk on her face, she crawled into bed beside him and snapped a series of photos just enough to make it look like they had shared an intimate moment. When Ryan woke up the next morning, groggy and confused, she had let hime to his conclusions.


    And he had. Exactly as she had nned. Be let out a dryugh as she took another sip of her wine.


    ¡°So brilliant of you, Be,¡± she whispered to herself.


    A few monthster, she had dropped the bombshell: she was ¡°pregnant.¡± The look of shock and guilt on Ryan¡¯s face had been priceless.


    He had racked his brain, trying to piece together that night, and in the end, he had epted it.


    After all, why wouldn¡¯t he? The pictures, her tearful confessions, and her fabricated symptoms had all been part of her carefully constructed lie.


    Ryan had never doubted her. Not once.¡±Fool,¡± Be muttered, her smile fading as she swirled the wine again. ¡°If only you had loved me, Ryan.


    Sincerely. I wouldn¡¯t have had to do any of this.¡±Her thoughts drifted to the present, to the empire she now controlled, and to Victor, her cunning brother.


    They were close, closer than most siblings and they had been nning this takeover for years. Their rise to power had been inevitable, but Be couldn¡¯t help feeling that her real victory was iplete.


    Ryan had never loved her. Not the way she had wanted. And now, she had lost him entirely.


    The door to her office opened suddenly, breaking her from her thoughts. Victor walked in, his expression serious as he approached her desk.


    His tall, imposing figure cast a shadow across the room, and Be could sense something was wrong immediately.¡±Be,¡± he said, his voice low, ¡°we have a problem.¡±She raised an eyebrow, setting her ss down. ¡°What is it?¡±Victor sat down across from her, his hands resting on the armrests of the chair. ¡°It¡¯s Luca He¡¯s been digging into our past. He knows about the offshore ounts.¡±Be¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°What do you mean? How could he know?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s not as clueless as we thought,¡± Victor replied, his eyes narrowing. ¡°Luca has been working. He¡¯s been investigating us for weeks, and I think soon he might find the ounts we¡¯ve been funneling Kendrick¡¯s money into.¡±


    Be¡¯s mind raced as she processed the information. ¡°So what do we do now?¡±Victor leaned forward, his gaze cold and calcting.


    ¡°We can¡¯t wait any longer. We need to move faster. If Luca takes it to Ryan and then he takes this to the board, everything we¡¯ve built will crumble.¡±


    Be gripped the edge of her desk, trying to steady herself. ¡°But what about Ryan? If he knows, he¡¯ll never let us get away with it.¡±


    Victor¡¯s eyes gleamed with a dangerous light. ¡°Leave Ryan to me.¡±Be frowned, her pulse quickening. ¡°What do you mean? What are you nning?¡±Victor stood up, adjusting his suit jacket. ¡°We¡¯vee too far to let Ryan ruin this now. If he¡¯s in the way, we¡¯ll remove him.¡±


    Be¡¯s stomach twisted. She had been ruthless in her climb to power, but the thought of harming Ryan unsettled her. ¡°I don¡¯t want him hurt, Victor,¡± Victor smirked.


    ¡°Hurt? No, no¡­ we don¡¯t have to hurt him. Just¡­ make sure he doesn¡¯t interfere.¡±Be swallowed hard, her mind swirling with conflicting emotions. She had wanted control, but she had never imagined it woulde to this.


    ¡°What are you suggesting?¡±Victor leaned down, his face inches from hers. ¡°Ryan and Luca is a loose end. And we don¡¯t leave loose ends.¡±Be felt a cold shiver run down her spine as Victor¡¯s words sank in.


    He wasn¡¯t just talking about getting rid of Ryan. He was talking about eliminating him.¡±I won¡¯t let you kill him,¡± Be said firmly, her voice shaking slightly. Victor straightened up, his smile widening.


    ¡°Who said anything about killing? We just need to make sure Ryan disappears¡­ permanently.¡±


    Be spent the rest of the day pacing in her office, her thoughts consumed by Victor¡¯s chilling n. Could she go through with it? Could she really let Victor get rid of Ryan? Her phone buzzed on her desk, pulling her from her thoughts. It was a message from Ryan.


    Ryan: ¡°We need to talk now.


    ¡°Be¡¯s heart skipped a beat as she stared at the screen. Her worst fear hade true, But the question was, what did he want to talk about? She quickly typed a reply. Be: ¡°I will be home soon¡±


    ¡°I will meet you up at the office Ryan replied¡±.


    That evening, Be stood in the dimly lit hallway of her office building, waiting for Ryan to arrive.


    She could feel the tension building inside her, knowing that the confrontation she had been dreading was finally about to happen. When the elevator doors opened, Ryan stepped out, his expression hard and determined. He didn¡¯t look at her as he walked down the hall, his footsteps echoing against the marble floor.


    ¡°You wanted to talk,¡± Be said, her voice barely above a whisper.


    Ryan stopped a few feet away from her, his gaze cold as ice. ¡°I know what you¡¯ve been doing, Iris. I know everything about you and Victor.


    ¡°Be swallowed, trying to keep herposure. ¡°Ryan, what do you know I can exin¡­..¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Ryan cut her off, his voice sharp. ¡°I don¡¯t want your exnations. I want the truth. Why didn¡¯t you tell me you had a brother? Why lie to me? Were you hiding it from me on purpose?


    Be released a breath she didn¡¯t realize she was holding, her heart racing. Initially, Ryan¡¯s so dumb, she said to herself.


    Before she could respond, Ryan took a step closer, his voice lowering to a dangerous whisper.


    ¡°You¡¯ve made your choice, Iris, by keeping secrets; now it¡¯s time for me to make mine.¡±


    Just as Be opened her mouth to speak, the sound of footsteps echoed in the hallway.


    Victor appeared at the end of the corridor, his eyes locking onto Ryan with a predatory gleam.


    ¡°Ah, Ryan,¡± Victor said, his voice smooth and menacing. ¡°I was hoping we could have a little chat.¡±Ryan turned to face Victor, his jaw clenched, he could still remember the face of the man who came to propose investment.


    There was more to the investment, but Be could see the fear sh in his eyes.


    She knew that Victor wouldn¡¯t hesitate to follow through with his threats. And now, Ryan was trapped between the two of them.

 Chapter 102

    Ryan sat in the passenger seat of Luca¡¯s car, the city lights flickering through the window as they sped through the quiet streets.


    His thoughts raced faster than the car, the weight of everything pressing down on him-Be¡¯s betrayal, Victor¡¯s maniptions, thepany slipping through his fingers, and now this meeting with Luca.


    He needed answers, and he needed them fast. Luca drove in silence, his grip tight on the steering wheel.


    They both knew they couldn¡¯t afford to raise suspicion, especially with Be¡¯s guards likely watching Ryan¡¯s every move. The less noise they made, the better their chances of discovering the truth.


    Finally, they pulled into the driveway of Luca¡¯s secluded house on the outskirts of the city. It was a modern, minimalist home, surrounded by high walls and trees that shielded it from prying eyes. Luca parked the car and gestured for Ryan to follow him inside.


    Once they entered the house, Luca led Ryan to the living room, motioning for him to sit on the leather couch. Ryan obliged, though he was barely able to sit still. Luca began pacing, clearly deep in thought.


    ¡°We need to talk about what¡¯s going on, Ryan. I¡¯ve been doing my digging, and it¡¯s worse than we thought.¡±Ryan crossed his arms, his gaze sharp.


    ¡°How did they do it, Luca? How did Be and Victor manage to get their hands on thepany?¡±Luca stopped pacing and turned to face Ryan.


    ¡°It was the day you had that meeting with Victor and his associates. They slipped the document in with the other papers, and you signed it without realizing what it was.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s jaw tightened as the memory of that day came flooding back. He had been distracted, tired, and rushing through the meeting. Victor had been pushing him to sign off on some minor agreements, or so he thought.


    He hadn¡¯t given it a second thought, trusting Victor and his investment ns at the time.¡±So, the document I signed¡­ it was the transfer of ownership?¡± Ryan asked, his voice filled with disbelief and anger.


    Luca nodded grimly. ¡°Yes. They took advantage of the situation, and now they¡¯ve got everything.¡±Ryan¡¯s mind raced. Hispany, his inheritance, everything his father had built-it was all in Be and Victor¡¯s hands because of one careless moment.


    He clenched his fists, rage bubbling under the surface.¡±There¡¯s only one way it got into their hands,¡± Luca said, his voice low. Ryan met Luca¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Be,¡± he whispered, the name tasting bitter on his tongue. Luca nodded again. ¡°She¡¯s been working with Victor from the start.


    They yed you, Ryan. The fake pregnancy, the maniption-it was all part of their n.¡±Ryan leaned back on the couch, trying to process it all. Be, the woman he had once cared for, had orchestrated everything. She had torn his life apart piece by piece, and now she stood at the helm of his family¡¯s empire.


    Ryan shook his head, trying to focus. ¡°You said Mrs. Jessica is with you, right? Where is she?¡±Luca beckoned to his maid, who had been quietly standing in the corner.


    She nodded in understanding and walked toward a nearby wall.¡±Follow me,¡± Luca said, as he and Ryan followed the maid. They walked through a narrow hallway until they reached what appeared to be a solid wall.


    Ryan watched as the maid slid arge portrait to the side, revealing a hidden door behind it.


    Ryan¡¯s eyes widened slightly, though he wasn¡¯tpletely surprised. He and Luca had often shared ideas about security measures like this. Ryan even had a simr hidden room in his own home.


    They stepped through the hidden doorway and into a dimly lit room.


    The air was cool, and there was a quiet hum of machinery, like a venttor or a medical device.


    Ryan looked around, his heart beating faster. In the center of the room, lying on a small bed, was an older woman with striking features.


    Her eyes fluttered open as she sensed their presence. She blinked a few times before her gaze locked onto Luca and then shifted to Ryan.¡±Luca,¡± she said weakly, her voice hoarse from disuse.


    ¡°Is this Ryan?¡±Luca nodded, stepping forward. ¡°Yes, Mrs. Jessica. This is Ryan.¡±Ryan swallowed hard as he stepped closer to the bed, his eyes fixed on the woman. There was something familiar about her-her face, her eyes. She looked like someone he knew, but older, weathered by time and hardship.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°Ryan,¡± Mrs. Jessica whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. ¡°Where¡¯s Iris? Where¡¯s my daughter?¡±The mention of Iris¡¯s name sent a shockwave through Ryan¡¯s body. He hadn¡¯t heard her name in months, not since everything fell apart. The memories of Iris, her smile, and herughter all came rushing back like a flood.


    Before he could respond, Mrs. Jessica¡¯s voice grew more desperate. ¡°Your family¡­ they¡¯re evil. Please, just let my daughter and I go. We¡¯ve been through enough.¡±Ryan stood frozen, his eyes locked on Mrs. Jessica. Her face-it was a reflection of Iris. Older, yes, but the resemnce was undeniable.


    The shape of her eyes, the curve of her lips, the way her hair fell around her shoulders-it was as if he were looking at Iris, just years into the future.


    Tears welled up in Ryan¡¯s eyes as the weight of the moment hit him. ¡°Mrs. Jessica,¡± he whispered, his voice thick with emotion, ¡°I don¡¯t know where Iris is.¡±Mrs. Jessica¡¯s eyes filled with tears as well. ¡°You have to find her, Ryan. She¡¯s in danger. They¡¯ll never stop hunting her. She¡¯s my daughter¡­ my only daughter.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s heart ached at the sight of this woman, broken and desperate for her child. His mind shed back to thest time he had seen Iris her defiance, her strength, her unwavering spirit.


    She had always been a fighter, but now she was lost, somewhere out there, and he had no idea how to find her.


    Luca stepped forward, cing a hand on Ryan¡¯s shoulder. ¡°We¡¯ll find her,¡± he said softly. ¡°We¡¯ll bring Iris back.¡±Ryan nodded, his resolve hardening.


    He couldn¡¯t let Be and Victor continue to destroy everything that mattered to him.


    He had to find Iris, protect her, and reim what was rightfully his.¡±I¡¯ll do whatever it takes,¡± Ryan said, his voice steady with determination. ¡°I won¡¯t let them win.¡±Mrs. Jessica¡¯s hand trembled as she reached out to Ryan, her fingers brushing against his.


    ¡°Please,¡± she whispered, her eyes pleading. ¡°Don¡¯t let them hurt her.¡±Ryan squeezed her hand gently, his heart breaking at the sight of her vulnerability. ¡°I won¡¯t,¡± he promised. ¡°I¡¯ll find Iris, and I¡¯ll protect her. I swear it.¡±


    Later, as Ryan and Luca sat in the dimly lit kitchen, the gravity of the situation hung over them like a storm cloud.¡±What¡¯s the next move?¡± Ryan asked, his voice low as he stared into his untouched cup of coffee.


    ¡°We need to get more evidence on Be and Victor,¡± Luca replied. ¡°Something solid that can bring them down. We can¡¯t act too soon or toote.¡±Ryan nodded, his mind racing with ns and possibilities.


    ¡°We¡¯ll need someone on the inside,¡± he said, his voice thoughtful. ¡°Someone who can keep an eye on them without raising suspicion.¡±


    Luca leaned back in his chair, considering Ryan¡¯s words. ¡°That won¡¯t be easy. Be and Victor are smart. They don¡¯t trust many people.¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°I know just the person.¡±Luca raised an eyebrow. ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Jessica,¡± Ryan said quietly. ¡°She knows more than we think. She¡¯s been involved with the Kendricks longer than anyone. She has to have leverage.¡±Luca looked hesitant. ¡°But she¡¯s weak right now. And if Be finds out she¡¯s still alive¡­¡±Ryan¡¯s gaze hardened.


    ¡°That¡¯s why we need to move carefully. But Jessica is the key to unraveling this whole thing. I¡¯m sure of it.¡±Luca nodded slowly. ¡°All right. But we need to be careful. One wrong move and Be will know we¡¯re onto her.¡±

 Chapter 103

    Ryan sat on the edge of the bed, staring at Mrs. Jessica with an expression of helplessness and frustration.


    The weight of everything was suffocating him hispany stolen from under him, his heart torn apart by the fact that the woman he truly cared for was still being held captive.


    He had failed at everything, and it was killing him inside.


    Mrs. Jessicay in the bed, her frail body barely moving. Her eyes, however, were full of fire as she looked at Ryan with a mixture of disbelief and resentment.


    She had endured so much, and Ryan knew that his words were not enough to make amends for the pain she had suffered.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Ryan began softly, his voice trembling. ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m sorry for everything you¡¯ve been through. I didn¡¯t know I couldn¡¯t have known.


    Please¡­ forgive me.¡±Mrs. Jessica didn¡¯t respond immediately.


    Her hands tightened into fists under the nket as she nced away from him, clearly struggling with her emotions.


    ¡°You have no idea what I¡¯ve been through,¡± she said, her voice cold and sharp.


    ¡°And now youe to me asking for forgiveness? Where is my daughter? Where is Iris?¡±


    Ryan swallowed hard, the guilt gnawing at him. ¡°I don¡¯t know where she is, but I swear to you, I¡¯ll find her,¡± he said, his voice desperate.


    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure she¡¯s safe. I¡¯ll do everything in my power to bring her back.¡±Mrs. Jessica shook her head, tears filling her eyes. ¡°Everything in your power?¡± she repeated bitterly. ¡°You¡¯ve already lost everything, haven¡¯t you? Yourpany, your family¡¯s legacy everything¡¯s gone. How can you possibly help her now?¡±


    Ryan closed his eyes, the weight of her words hitting him like a hammer. She was right. He had lost everything, and his naivety, his arrogance, had cost him dearly.


    But that didn¡¯t mean he was ready to give up.¡±I know I¡¯ve been spoiled and naive,¡± Ryan admitted, his voice breaking with emotion.


    ¡°I was arrogant, thinking I had everything under control. But I don¡¯t. I¡¯ve lost so much more than you know. My father is seriously ill, and I¡¯ve only just started to recover my memories after losing them. Everything in my life has been falling apart, and I don¡¯t even know who to trust anymore.


    ¡°Mrs. Jessica stared at him for a moment, her expression softening just slightly, but the pain in her eyes was still raw. Before she could respond, Luca stepped forward, sensing the tension in the room.


    ¡°Mrs. Jessica, we¡¯re not asking you to forgive everything right now,¡± Luca said gently. ¡°But please, we need your help. Ryan is trying to make things right. He¡¯s been through hell, too. We can¡¯t do this without you.¡±Mrs. Jessica¡¯s lips trembled as she considered Luca¡¯s words. She nced back at Ryan, who looked at her with pleading eyes.


    For a long moment, there was only silence between them. Finally, Mrs. Jessica let out a shaky breath and nodded slightly. ¡°I¡¯ll talk,¡± she whispered, ¡°but only because I want to find Iris. My daughter is the only thing that matters to me now.¡±Ryan sighed in relief, though the guilt still weighed heavily on him.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± he said quietly. ¡°I promise you, we¡¯ll find her.¡±But then, Mrs. Jessica¡¯s expression hardened again, her eyes narrowing. ¡°And as for your father,¡± she said coldly, ¡°let him die for all I care.¡±Ryan and Luca both froze, shocked by the sudden venom in her voice.


    Ryan blinked, unable to believe what he had just heard.


    ¡°What¡­ what do you mean?¡± he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.


    Mrs. Jessica¡¯s eyes red with anger as she leaned forward slightly. ¡°Your father,¡± she spat, ¡°is the reason for all of this. He destroyed my life. He took everything from me. Do you think I care if he¡¯s ill? Let him suffer. Let him rot. It¡¯s what he deserves.¡±


    Ryan felt like the ground had been pulled out from under him. He had always seen his father as a strong, proud man a businessman who had built an empire from the ground up. But now, hearing Mrs. Jessica¡¯s words, a dark cloud of doubt began to form in his mind.


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Ryan asked, his voice shaky. ¡°What did my father do?¡±Mrs. Jessicaughed bitterly, the sound filled with years of pent-up rage and pain. ¡°You think your father is some kind of saint? You have no idea the kind of man he is. He used me. He lied to me. He made promises he never intended to keep. And when I became inconvenient to him, he threw me away like garbage.¡±


    Ryan felt his stomach turn. ¡°No¡­ that can¡¯t be true.¡±


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s true,¡± Mrs. Jessica snapped. ¡°Your father and his precious empire are built on lies and betrayal. And now, you¡¯re paying the price for his sins.¡±Ryan¡¯s mind was spinning. He didn¡¯t want to believe her couldn¡¯t believe her but there was something in her voice, in her eyes, that told him she was telling the truth. Had his entire life been built on lies? Luca stepped forward, his voice steady but cautious.


    ¡°Mrs. Jessica, we need to understand everything if we¡¯re going to help Iris. Please, tell us what happened.¡±Mrs. Jessica¡¯s eyes flickered toward Luca, and for a moment, her expression softened.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    She took a deep breath as if steadying herself and then began to speak.¡±Years ago,¡± she said quietly, ¡°I worked for your family, Ryan. I was just a young woman then, and I didn¡¯t know what I was getting myself into. Your father Mr. Kendrick-he was charming, persuasive. He promised me a better life, security, and love. I was foolish enough to believe him.¡±Ryan felt a sinking feeling in his chest as Mrs. Jessica continued.


    ¡°We had a rtionship one that he kept secret, of course.


    His head was spinning, trying to make sense of it all.


    Mrs. Jessica¡¯s face twisted with bitterness. ¡°Because he didn¡¯t want anyone to know the truth about me, about our rtionship.


    He¡¯s been lying to everyone for years.¡±Luca, who had been listening quietly, finally spoke up.


    ¡°This exins why Iris was targeted. If Be and Victor knew about her connection to the Kendricks, they could have seen her as a threat to their ns.


    ¡°Mrs. Jessica nodded, wiping away a tear. ¡°Iris never wanted anything to do with the family. But she was dragged into this mess because of who she is. And now, I don¡¯t know where she is or what they¡¯ve done to her.¡±


    Ryan felt a deep sense of guilt and responsibility wash over him. He had been blind to the truth for so long, but now that he knew, he couldn¡¯t ignore it. He had to make things right-for Iris, for Mrs. Jessica, and himself.


    ¡°We¡¯ll find her,¡± Ryan said firmly, his voice filled with determination. ¡°I won¡¯t let Be or Victor get away with this. I¡¯ll make sure they pay for everything they¡¯ve done.¡±Mrs. Jessica looked at him, her expression softening for the first time since they had met.


    ¡°Just bring my daughter back,¡± she whispered. ¡°That¡¯s all I ask.¡±Ryan nodded, his mind made up. He would do whatever it took to bring Iris home, no matter the cost.

 Chapter 104

    Ryan sat frozen, his eyes locked on Mrs. Jessica as she unraveled the dark and tangled web of his family¡¯s past.


    The shock of what she was saying hit him like a tidal wave, leaving him reeling with disbelief and confusion.


    ¡°I knew your father had skeletons in his closet,¡± Ryan muttered, shaking his head slowly, ¡°but I never imagined it would be this bad.¡±Mrs. Jessica¡¯s eyes were weary, filled with years of pain that she had buried deep inside.


    ¡°Ryan,¡± she said softly, ¡°you were just a child when all of this happened. You couldn¡¯t have known. But the truth is, your family has done unspeakable things.¡±Ryan shifted ufortably in his seat, trying to process it all.


    ¡°So, my father¡­ he forced you into a rtionship?¡± He nced at Luca, who remained silent, watching the conversation unfold with a grim expression.


    Mrs. Jessica nodded, her voice filled with a mixture of shame and bitterness. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to do it,¡± she exined. ¡°I knew it was wrong. I knew being involved with him would only end in disaster, but I didn¡¯t have much choice. He made it clear that if I refused, I¡¯d be out of a job, with no way to support myself.


    Back then, it was all I had.¡±Ryan clenched his fists, his frustration boiling over. ¡°And my mother¡­ she didn¡¯t know?¡±


    ¡°At first, no,¡± Mrs. Jessica replied, her eyes narrowing. ¡°But she was clever, and she noticed the change in your father¡¯s behavior. He was always with me, always finding reasons to keep me close. Eventually, she caught on and became suspicious.¡±Ryan lowered his head, his heart sinking.


    ¡°I remember bits and pieces of you,¡± he admitted, ncing up at her. ¡°You were always kind to me. I never understood why you suddenly left, but now it makes sense. My mother framed you.¡±Mrs. Jessica let out a bitterugh. ¡°Yes, your mother was ruthless.


    She couldn¡¯t stand the idea of another woman being close to your father. She was cunning and always had her way of getting rid of people she didn¡¯t like. So, she framed me for attempting to poison him.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s jaw tightened. ¡°That¡¯s insane. My father didn¡¯t believe her, did he?¡±


    ¡°He didn¡¯t know what to believe,¡± Mrs. Jessica said, her voice softening. ¡°The evidence was all there-the poisoned food, the nted items in my room. He didn¡¯t want to believe it, but your mother had set it up so well. He couldn¡¯t risk the scandal or the bacsh, so he had no choice but to make me leave.¡±


    ¡°And that¡¯s when you told him you were pregnant,¡± Ryan added, his voice quiet.


    Mrs. Jessica¡¯s face twisted with sadness as she nodded. ¡°Yes. I thought it would change things. I thought maybe he would protect me, that he would take responsibility for the child.


    But he didn¡¯t want theplication. He told me to get rid of it, gave me some money, and sent me away. That¡¯s when I was ambushed.¡±


    Ryan looked horrified. ¡°Ambushed? By who?¡±Mrs. Jessica swallowed hard, her voice trembling slightly. ¡°On my way out of the city, I was kidnapped. A group of men grabbed me, tied me up, and told me they had orders to kill me.¡±Ryan felt a cold shiver run down his spine. ¡°Kill you? My father¡­ he wouldn¡¯t have¡­¡±Mrs. Jessica shook her head, her expression hardening.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t your father. It was your mother, Rose. She couldn¡¯t stand the thought of me still being alive, knowing what I knew about her and Dr. Parker.¡±


    Ryan exchanged a stunned nce with Luca, who had been listening intently. ¡°So, she was having an affair with Dr. Parker all along?¡± Luca asked, his voice full of disbelief.¡±Yes,¡± Mrs. Jessica confirmed. ¡°I overheard one of their phone conversations.


    They were discussing something about a pregnancy, though I didn¡¯t fully understand it at the time. I kept their secret, thinking it was none of my business. But Rose¡­ she must¡¯ve seen me as a threat. She had to get rid of me.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Ryan felt sick. His mother, who had always seemed so polished, so perfect, was hiding a dark secret all along. ¡°And she sent men to kill you?¡± he whispered.


    Mrs. Jessica nodded. ¡°Yes. They were going to execute me, but I pleaded with one of the men, told him I was pregnant, and that I just wanted to disappear. After hours of begging, he finally agreed to help me escape. He told me it was Mrs. Rose who had ordered my death.¡±


    Ryan sat back in his chair, his mind spinning. Everything he had known about his family, about his mother, was unraveling. He was starting to question everything.¡±I escaped,¡± Mrs. Jessica continued, her voice filled with emotion.


    ¡°I ran as far as I could, trying to stay off the radar. A few monthster, I found out I was pregnant with twins. I was devastated. I could barely feed myself, and now I had two babies on the way.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s heart clenched with guilt. He couldn¡¯t imagine what she must¡¯ve gone through alone, terrified, with no one to turn to.¡±I did whatever I could to survive,¡±


    Mrs. Jessica said, her voice quiet. ¡°Odd jobs, anything that paid. But it was never enough. When the twins were born, I didn¡¯t know how I was going to take care of both of them.¡±


    Ryan leaned forward, his voice barely a whisper. ¡°And that¡¯s when you had to make the hardest decision of your life.¡±Mrs. Jessica nodded, tears welling in her eyes.


    ¡°Yes. I couldn¡¯t keep both of them. I could barely feed one, let alone two. So, I chose to give Ivy to your father. I thought she would have a better life, that she would be safe with him. But I kept Iris, my sweet Iris. She was all I had left.¡±


    The room was heavy with silence, each word hanging in the air like a weight on Ryan¡¯s chest. He was trying to wrap his mind around everything-his mother¡¯s betrayal, his father¡¯s coldness, and now, the knowledge that Iris was his half-sister. It was too much.


    ¡°I never wanted to be part of your world again,¡± Mrs. Jessica said, her voice filled with sorrow. ¡°But they found us. Be and Victor-they figured out who Iris was and decided to use her as a pawn in their twisted game for control of the Kendrick empire.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s eyes filled with rage. ¡°They¡¯ll pay for this,¡± he said through gritted teeth. ¡°Be and Victor-they won¡¯t get away with it.¡±Mrs. Jessica shook her head sadly.


    ¡°You can¡¯t fight them alone, Ryan. They¡¯re dangerous. They¡¯re willing to do anything to get what they want.¡±Luca, who had been silent for most of the conversation, finally spoke up.


    ¡°Mrs. Jessica¡¯s right. We need to be smart about this. We can¡¯t just charge in without a n.¡±Ryan sighed, running his hand through his hair. ¡°I know. But we can¡¯t just sit here and do nothing.


    Iris is still out there, and we need to find her.¡±Luca nodded. ¡°Agreed. But first, we need to gather more information. We need to figure out where they¡¯re holding her and what their next move is.¡±


    Mrs. Jessica¡¯s eyes filled with worry. ¡°Please, just find my daughter,¡± she whispered. ¡°She¡¯s all I have left.¡±Ryan stood up, his mind racing with determination.


    ¡°We will,¡± he promised. ¡°I won¡¯t rest until she¡¯s safe.¡±

 Chapter 105

    Mrs. Jessica sat at the edge of the old, creaking hospital bed, her frail hands trembling as she reminisced.


    Her eyes, tired from years of pain, glistened with unshed tears. It had been so many years since Mr. Kendrick took her other twin, Ivy, and not a single day passed without her feeling the crushing weight of that loss.


    ¡°Ever since Mr. Kendrick took Ivy,¡± Mrs. Jessica began, her voice hoarse from the memories she had buried for so long, ¡°I haven¡¯t been the same. Every day, I wake up thinking about her. What does she look like now? What has she be? Does she know I exist? Does she remember me?¡±


    Ryan watched her closely, a knot forming in his throat. The weight of the revtions from the previous night still hung heavy in the room.


    His mother had torn apart this woman¡¯s life, and now, here she was broken, yet still standing, fighting for her daughter. He couldn¡¯t help but feel responsible for the pain his family had caused her.


    ¡°Mrs. Jessica, I¡¯m so sorry for everything,¡± Ryan murmured, his voice low. ¡°I had no idea. I didn¡¯t even know you existed until now. And Ivy¡­ my sister¡­¡±Mrs. Jessica looked up, her eyes filled with sorrow. ¡°It wasn¡¯t your fault, Ryan. You were just a child. You couldn¡¯t have known what was happening behind closed doors.¡±


    She swallowed hard, her hands clenching tightly together. ¡°But I¡¯ve missed Ivy every day since I gave her to your father.


    She is my baby, my flesh and blood. And yet, I have her away because I couldn¡¯t protect and care for her, just like everything else.¡±


    Ryan remained silent, feeling the weight of her words. He could sense the decades of anguish behind each sentence, the wounds that had never healed.


    Mrs. Jessica¡¯s heart had been torn in two the day Ivy was taken, and though she had Iris, the absence of one daughter haunted her relentlessly.¡±And Iris?¡±


    Ryan asked softly. ¡°What about her? Has she been with you all this time?¡±Mrs. Jessica nodded slowly, her expression softening when she mentioned Iris. ¡°Yes, Iris stayed with me. She¡¯s been my rock all these years. We¡¯ve had nothing but each other to rely on. Ever since she was a child, Iris has always taken care of me.¡±


    She hesitated for a moment, then continued, her voice growing quieter. ¡°After the twins were born, things got worse for me. I developed kidney failure, and I needed a lot of money for the surgery.


    But we didn¡¯t have any money¡­ we barely had enough to survive. Iris was the one who worked so hard to make sure I got the best treatment we could afford. But it was never enough.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s chest tightened with guilt as he listened. He had lived his life in luxury, never worrying about money or health, while this woman and his half-sister had suffered in silence.¡±Iris must have done everything she could,¡± Ryan said gently. ¡°She¡¯s always been so strong.¡±


    Mrs. Jessica nodded, her eyes filled with pride. ¡°Yes, she did. She took on every job she could find, working day and night just to keep us afloat. But no matter how hard she worked, the money was never enough. My condition kept getting worse, and I knew¡­ I knew she was getting desperate.¡±


    She paused, her voice trembling. ¡°And then one day, Iris told me she had found a new job. She wouldn¡¯t tell me much about it, only that it paid well. I was so happy for her, relieved that she might finally be able to earn enough to pay for my treatment.


    She sent money often, but she barely had time to visit. I didn¡¯t want to question her; I thought maybe she had found something good, something that could help us.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s heart sank. He had a feeling he knew where this was going, and it twisted his gut. ¡°What kind of job was it?¡± he asked carefully.


    Mrs. Jessica¡¯s face crumpled with pain. ¡°I didn¡¯t know at first. I didn¡¯t ask her, because I trusted her. I thought she would never do anything dangerous or harmful. But as time went on, I noticed the changes in her. She stoppeding around as much, and when she did, she seemed distant, like something was weighing heavily on her mind. I didn¡¯t understand it then, but now¡­ now I know.¡±


    Ryan clenched his fists, his anger simmering beneath the surface. ¡°She got involved in something dangerous, didn¡¯t she?¡±Mrs. Jessica nodded, tears spilling down her cheeks.


    ¡°Yes. She did it for me. She put herself in harm¡¯s way to save me. But I had no idea. I should¡¯ve asked, I should¡¯ve seen the signs. But I was too focused on my illness, too desperate to get better.¡± She wiped her tears with the back of her hand, her voice breaking. ¡±


    Skr was the one who took care of me while Iris worked. He was kind and patient, always by my side when Iris couldn¡¯t be. But I knew¡­ I knew something was wrong.¡±Ryan¡¯s brow furrowed.


    ¡°Iris never wanted to tell me. She didn¡¯t want me to know how far she had fallen. But I could see it in her eyes, in the way she carried herself. She was in too deep, and there was no way out.¡±Ryan¡¯s stomach churned. He couldn¡¯t believe how much Iris had sacrificed for her mother, how much she had endured without ever telling anyone.


    ¡°And now she¡¯s missing,¡± Mrs. Jessica said, her voice barely a whisper. ¡°I don¡¯t know where she is, or if she¡¯s safe. I¡¯ve lost one daughter already, and now I¡¯m losing another.¡±Ryan reached out, cing aforting hand on Mrs. Jessica¡¯s shoulder. ¡°We¡¯ll find her,¡± he promised. ¡°I swear, I¡¯ll do everything in my power to bring her back.


    ¡°Mrs. Jessica looked up at him, her eyes filled with hope and fear. ¡°Please, Ryan. I can¡¯t lose her too.¡±R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Hourster, Ryan sat in the dimly lit room with Luca, deep in thought. The weight of everything he had learned was crushing him, and he felt more helpless than ever. His family had destroyed so many lives, and now he was left to pick up the pieces.

 Chapter 106

    The room was dimly lit, with long shadows cast by the single chandelier that hung overhead. The scent of cigars and expensive cologne lingered in the air, a silent reminder of the wealth and power that surrounded the table.


    Victor sat at the head, a self-satisfied smirk ying on his lips as he swirled his whiskey ss, the amber liquid catching the faint light.


    Around him sat his most trusted associates-men and women who had aligned themselves with him in the hostile takeover of Kendrick Enterprises.


    Each of them had yed a crucial role in toppling the once-mighty empire, and now they were ready to reap the rewards.


    Victor cleared his throat, drawing everyone¡¯s attention. ¡°Gentlemen anddies, we¡¯ve gathered here today to discuss our next move. As of now, we are officially in control of Kendrick Enterprises.¡± He raised his ss, a sharp glint in his eye.


    ¡°And I think it¡¯s time we made some changes.¡±The room erupted into murmurs of approval, with heads nodding in agreement. Sitting to his left was Be, her fingers delicately running along the stem of her wine ss as she listened. Her lips curled into a sly smile as she leaned forward.


    ¡°So, Victor,¡± Be said smoothly, her voice low and sultry, ¡°what exactly do you have in mind for Kendrick Enterprises? I assume we¡¯re not just going to let it run the way it has been.¡±


    Victor chuckled, the sound rich with arrogance. ¡°Oh no, my dear. We¡¯re not going to leave things as they are. We¡¯ve already won, but now it¡¯s time to make sure Kendrick¡¯s legacy ispletely obliterated.¡±


    One of the men across the table, a thin and sharp-featured individual named Damien, raised an eyebrow. ¡°What do you mean by that, Victor?¡±Victor leaned back in his chair, his smirk growing.


    ¡°I¡¯m talking about exposing Mr. Kendrick¡¯s secrets-the things he¡¯s been hiding for years. You see, this empire of his wasn¡¯t built entirely on legitimate business practices. He was involved in drug trafficking, moneyundering, and God knows what else. We¡¯ve got the evidence, and we¡¯re going to use it.¡±Be raised her ss.


    ¡°To destroy Kendrick¡¯s name once and for all.¡±The group exchanged nces, excitement buzzing in the air. One of the women, Serena, narrowed her eyes thoughtfully. ¡°And what¡¯s the benefit to us, Victor? Exposing Mr. Kendrick¡¯s dirtyundry might make headlines, but how does that help us in the long run?¡±


    Victor leaned forward, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial tone. ¡°That¡¯s where the brilliance of the nes in. Before we make any moves to expose Kendrick¡¯s secrets, we¡¯re going to drain every ount tied to his empire.


    All of the hidden offshore ounts, the investments, everything. We¡¯ll empty them, move the funds into our ounts, and then we¡¯ll blow the whistle on his drug dealing.¡±Damien let out a low whistle, impressed. ¡°You¡¯re talking about billions of dors.¡±Victor¡¯s eyes gleamed with greed.


    ¡°Exactly. Kendrick¡¯s empire is worth more than most people can even dream of. Once we¡¯ve taken everything, he¡¯ll be left with nothing but his ruined reputation. His family won¡¯t be able to recover, and we¡¯ll be the ones sitting on top.¡±Be¡¯s smile widened.


    ¡°I love it. We get the money, and we make sure that the Kendricks are destroyed in the process. It¡¯s poetic.¡±Serena leaned back in her chair, a slow grin spreading across her face. ¡°That¡¯s brilliant, Victor. I didn¡¯t think you had such a ruthless streak in you.¡±Victor chuckled, tipping his ss in her direction.


    ¡°You underestimate me, Serena. I¡¯ve been nning this for years. Mr. Kendrick may have been the king of this city once, but now it¡¯s my turn.¡±Damien, ever the skeptic, crossed his arms.


    ¡°And what about Ryan Kendrick? He¡¯s still a threat, isn¡¯t he? The kid might be out of the picture right now, but if he recovers and starts digging into what we¡¯re doing, he could cause problems.


    ¡°Be waved her hand dismissively. ¡°Ryan Kendrick is nothing to worry about. He¡¯s in the hospital, probably too weak to even fight back.


    And even if he did, what could he do? We¡¯ve already taken control. The media will be on our side once we release the evidence. We¡¯ll be the ones exposing a criminal, and the Kendricks will have no defense.¡±Victor nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Ryan Kendrick won¡¯t be an issue. By the time he even realizes what¡¯s happening, it¡¯ll be toote. Besides, we have contacts within the police force. No one¡¯s going to be investigating us.¡±


    The room fell silent for a moment as everyone processed the n. It was bold, daring, andpletely ruthless. But that¡¯s what it took to win in their world. Serena tapped her fingers on the table, her brow furrowed.


    ¡°What about Ivy Kendrick? She¡¯s been spending time with Luca, and from what I hear, she¡¯s not exactly on board with this new regime. If she starts poking around, we could have a problem.¡±Be scoffed.


    ¡°Ivy Kendrick is an airhead. She¡¯s more interested in ying dress-up and partying than running apany. Let her y her little games with Luca. She¡¯s no threat to us.¡±Victor frowned slightly but didn¡¯t argue.


    ¡°We¡¯ll keep an eye on Ivy, just in case. If she starts to be a problem, we¡¯ll deal with her. But for now, our focus should be on draining the ounts and preparing to release the evidence.¡±Damien raised his ss.


    ¡°To the fall of Kendrick Enterprises.¡±The group clinked their sses together, the sound of their toast echoing through the room like the ringing of a death knell for the Kendricks.


    As the night wore on, the conversation grew more animated, with the associates discussing the finer details of their n. Each of them contributed their expertise, ensuring that every possible angle was covered. Be, always sharp and calcting, had already begun thinking about how they could manipte the media.¡±We¡¯ll need a carefully crafted narrative,¡± Be said, her eyes gleaming.


    ¡°We can¡¯t just release the evidence without controlling the story. We need to make sure that when it hits the headlines, the Kendricks are painted as the viins.¡±Serena nodded in agreement.


    ¡°We¡¯ll need to feed the media just enough information to get them on our side. Once the public is convinced that Kendrick is a drug dealer and a criminal, no one will care about anything else. His entire legacy will be destroyed.¡±


    Victor smiled approvingly. ¡°Exactly. We¡¯ll use the media to our advantage. Once the public turns against the Kendricks, no one will question what we¡¯ve done. By the time anyone tries to dig deeper, we¡¯ll be long gone with the money.¡±Damien, who had been quietly listening, spoke up again.


    ¡°And what about Luca? He¡¯s still loyal to Ryan Kendrick, isn¡¯t he? We can¡¯t afford to let him interfere.¡±Victor¡¯s expression darkened slightly. ¡°Luca¡¯s loyalty to Ryan is a problem, yes. But he¡¯s also pragmatic. If we can convince him that there¡¯s nothing left to fight for, that the Kendricks are finished, he might switch sides.¡±Be raised an eyebrow. ¡°And if he doesn¡¯t?¡± Victor¡¯s gaze turned cold.


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll deal with him, just like we¡¯ll deal with anyone else who gets in our way.¡±The room fell silent for a moment, the weight of Victor¡¯s words hanging in the air. It was clear that there would be no room for mercy in their ns.


    Hours passed, and the meeting slowly wound down. The associates had hashed out every detail, from the timing of the ount transfers to the exact moment they would release the damning evidence against Mr. Kendrick. They were ready.


    Victor stood, raising his ss one final time. ¡°To our reign. To the fall of the Kendricks. And to the future of Vector Empire.¡±The group stood with him, clinking their sses together in a final toast.


    The room was filled with the sound ofughter and celebration as they reveled in their sess.


    But as they toasted to their victory, none of them noticed the small, inconspicuous device hidden beneath the table-a device that had been recording every word of their conversation.


    Later that night, in the silence of his office, Luca sat in front of hisptop, listening to the recording. His jaw tightened as Victor¡¯s voice echoed through the speakers.¡±We¡¯ll drain every ount tied to his empire¡­ and then we¡¯ll blow the whistle on his drug dealing.¡±


    Luca¡¯s heart pounded in his chest. He had suspected something was going on, but this? This was far worse than he had imagined. Victor and his associates were nning to tear apart everything the Kendricks had built, and they were going to destroy Ryan¡¯s family name in the process.


    Luca¡¯s hand hovered over his phone, debating whether to call Ivy or Ryan. His loyalty to Ryan was unwavering, but he knew that any wrong move could blow his cover. A message suddenly popped up on his screen. Unknown Number: ¡°I know what you¡¯ve been doing. Meet me at the docks tonight. Midnight.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Come alone.¡±Luca¡¯s eyes narrowed as he stared at the message. His mind raced. Who could know about the recording? Who had sent the message? He knew he couldn¡¯t ignore it. With onest nce at the recording, Luca grabbed his jacket and headed out the door. The stakes had never been higher, and one wrong move.

 Chapter 107

    The hospital room was dimly lit, only the soft hum of machines filling the silence.


    Ryan Kendricky in the bed, his face pale but his sharp eyes alert. Luca sat beside him, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees, listening closely as Ryan recounted the fragmented memories that had finally started to return to him.


    ¡°So, you remember everything?¡± Luca asked, keeping his voice low. His eyes scanned the room, almost as if he expected someone to be listening in. Ryan nodded slowly, his voice rough from disuse.


    ¡°Almost everything. It¡¯s still fuzzy in parts, but I know enough to understand what¡¯s going on.¡± He shifted slightly, grimacing from the pain in his side.


    ¡°I need you to promise me something, Luca.¡±Luca¡¯s brow furrowed, concerned. ¡°What is it?¡±Ryan took a deep breath, ncing towards the door before meeting Luca¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°You can¡¯t tell anyone I¡¯ve regained my memory. Not yet.¡±Luca blinked, surprised. ¡°Not even Ivy?¡±Ryan¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°Especially not Ivy.¡±Luca leaned back in his chair, his eyes widening in confusion.


    ¡°Why? She¡¯s been worried about you this whole time. She deserves to know.¡±Ryan shook his head, his voice firm. ¡°Ivy¡¯s emotional, Luca.


    She¡¯d act on impulse and ruin everything. I need time to figure things out, to understand who¡¯s really behind all of this. My father¡¯s secrets, thepany¡­ everything. There are too many moving parts, and I can¡¯t afford any mistakes.¡±Luca hesitated, still unsure.


    ¡°And you trust me with this?¡±Ryan¡¯s gaze was steady. ¡°You¡¯re the only one I can trust right now. Everyone else has their agenda-my mother, Be, and Dr. Parker.


    I need someone loyal, and that¡¯s you.¡±Luca¡¯s jaw clenched, nodding slowly. ¡°Alright. I won¡¯t tell anyone. But what¡¯s the n? You can¡¯t justy in this bed forever.¡±Ryan chuckled bitterly.


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly what I intend to do-for now, at least. If everyone thinks I¡¯m still weak, still recovering, they won¡¯t see me as a threat. It gives us time to gather information, to figure out who¡¯s pulling the strings.¡±


    Luca rubbed his chin, thinking. ¡°So, what do you want me to do in the meantime?¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes darkened, a shadow of his former determination creeping back into his expression.


    ¡°First, we need to keep an eye on everyone-my mother, Dr. Parker, Be. I want to know their every move. We¡¯ll hire some men, people they won¡¯t recognize, to tail them.


    They need to think they¡¯re still in control.¡±Luca nodded, already thinking of who he could call for the job. ¡°I can make that happen. But what are we looking for exactly?¡±


    ¡°Anything,¡± Ryan replied, his voice sharp. ¡°Conversations, phone calls, meetings. Anything that points to what they¡¯re nning.


    Be¡¯s been far too confidenttely, and I know my mother¡¯s hiding something. She¡¯s always been maniptive, but this feels different. More calcted.¡±Luca frowned.


    ¡°You think they¡¯re working together?¡±Ryan¡¯s expression was grim. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be surprised. My mother¡¯s never cared about anyone but herself, and if she thinks she can control Be, she¡¯ll use her as a pawn. But I don¡¯t think it¡¯s just them. There¡¯s someone else-someone in the shadows.¡±Luca¡¯s eyes narrowed.


    ¡°Dr. Parker?¡±Ryan clenched his fists. ¡°It¡¯s possible. He¡¯s been too close to my family for too long. I never trusted him, and now I have even more reason not to. I want him watched closely, too.¡±


    Luca nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. ¡°And what about thepany? Victor and his associates¡­ they¡¯re nning something big, Ryan. I¡¯ve overheard them talking about draining Kendrick Enterprises dry.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s eyes shed with anger, but he quicklyposed himself. ¡°We¡¯ll deal with Victor and his crew in due time. But first, we need proof. We can¡¯t move against them without solid evidence.¡±Luca leaned forward again, his voice dropping to a whisper.


    ¡°I have recordings, Ryan. Of Victor and the others. They¡¯re nning to empty thepany¡¯s ounts and expose your father¡¯s dirty dealings to ruin his name. They think they¡¯ve already won.¡±Ryan¡¯s face hardened further, a dark storm brewing in his eyes.


    ¡°Good. Let them think they¡¯ve won. It¡¯ll make it that much sweeter when we take them down.¡±There was a pause, the weight of the conversation hanging in the air.


    Luca shifted in his seat, thinking about the gravity of their situation. This wasn¡¯t just about saving Kendrick Enterprises-it was about taking back control from everyone who had betrayed Ryan.


    ¡°So,¡± Luca began cautiously, ¡°how do we go about this without tipping anyone off? You know your mother is going to be watching closely. If she senses anything, she¡¯ll act.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed, his mind already working through the details. ¡°We need to make her believe she¡¯s in control. Let her think everything is going ording to her n.


    Meanwhile, we gather our evidence, quietly and methodically.¡±Luca nodded, impressed by Ryan¡¯sposure.


    ¡°And Ivy? What happens when she realizes something¡¯s off? She¡¯s not going to sit back if she suspects foul y.¡±Ryan clenched his jaw. ¡°Ivy¡¯s¡­plicated. I care about her, but she can¡¯t be involved in this yet.


    She¡¯s too emotional, and if she gets wind of what¡¯s going on, she¡¯ll make a scene. Right now, I need her to stay out of it.¡±Luca raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°And what if she figures it out on her own?¡±Ryan¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Then we deal with it. But for now, she stays in the dark.¡±Luca let out a slow breath. ¡°This is risky, Ryan. One wrong move and everything could blow up in our faces.¡±Ryan smirked, his confidence returning.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I have you. You¡¯ve always been good at staying one step ahead.¡±Luca chuckled. ¡°ttery won¡¯t make this any easier.¡±Ryan¡¯s smile faded slightly, reced by a more serious expression.


    ¡°I know. But we don¡¯t have a choice.¡±A knock on the door interrupted them, and both men immediately tensed. Luca shot a look toward Ryan, silently asking if he should answer. Ryan gave him a subtle nod. Luca stood and walked to the door, opening it cautiously.


    A nurse stood in the hallway, holding a clipboard. ¡°Mr. Kendrick? Just here to check on the patient¡¯s vitals.¡±Luca forced a smile, nodding. ¡°Of course.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Come in.¡±The nurse entered, ncing between the two men before focusing on Ryan. ¡°How are we feeling today?¡±Ryan offered a weak smile, ying his part perfectly.


    ¡°A little better, I think. Just taking it slow.¡±The nurse nodded sympathetically as she checked his vitals. ¡°That¡¯s good. Just keep resting, and you¡¯ll be back on your feet in no time.¡±


    Ryan gave a faint nod, doing his best to appearpliant. Luca watched carefully, noting how Ryan skillfully concealed his alertness. He was ying the role of a recovering patient, and it was working.


    Once the nurse finished, she smiled at them both. ¡°I¡¯ll be backter to check on you again. If you need anything, just call.


    ¡°Luca thanked her as she left, closing the door softly behind her. The moment she was gone, Ryan¡¯s demeanor shifted back to its sharp focus.¡±Like I said,¡± Ryan muttered.


    ¡°We have to be careful. They¡¯re watching.¡±Luca nodded, sitting back down. ¡°So, what¡¯s the first move?¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes gleamed with a dangerous intensity.


    ¡°We start with my mother. She¡¯s the key to all of this. If we can figure out what she¡¯s after, we¡¯ll be able to unravel the rest.¡±Luca rubbed the back of his neck, frowning.


    ¡°You think she¡¯s involved in something this big?¡±Ryan¡¯s gaze turned cold. ¡°I know she is. She¡¯s always been after power, and now that my father¡¯s gone, she¡¯s seizing her chance. But there¡¯s something more-something she¡¯s not telling anyone.¡±


    Luca nodded slowly. ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll have some guys tail her and see what she¡¯s up to.¡±Ryan smirked. ¡°Good. And make sure they¡¯re discreet. If she even suspects we¡¯re onto her, she¡¯ll disappear faster than we can track her.¡±


    Luca made a mental note of the instructions, already thinking of who to assign to the job.


    ¡°What about Dr. Parker?¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed further at the mention of the doctor¡¯s name. ¡°I want him watched, too. He¡¯s been too close to my family for years, and I¡¯ve always felt there was something off about him. If he¡¯s involved with my mother in any way, we¡¯ll find out.¡±


    Luca¡¯s fingers drummed on the armrest of his chair. ¡°You think he¡¯s more than just a family doctor?¡±Ryan snorted. ¡°I think he¡¯s a snake. He¡¯s been my father¡¯s closest confidant for years, but there¡¯s something he¡¯s hiding. I can feel it.¡±Luca nodded.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have my men keep tabs on him as well. He won¡¯t know we¡¯re watching.¡±Ryan¡¯s lips twisted into a smirk. ¡°Perfect. Once we know what they¡¯re up to, we can start taking control from the inside.¡±

 Chapter 108

    Ivy paced the polished marble floors of the Kendrick mansion, her phone pressed tightly to her ear as her heart raced.


    The voice on the other end of the line was cold, indifferent, delivering a message that felt like a punch to the gut.¡±I¡¯m sorry, Ivy, but we have no choice.


    Effective immediately, you are relieved of your position with the agency. The usations of stolen designs are serious, and we can¡¯t afford to keep you on under these circumstances.¡±Ivy¡¯s breath hitched in her throat.


    ¡°Stolen designs? That¡¯s insane! I¡¯ve been loyal to thispany for years. I created those designs myself!¡± Her voice shook with disbelief, and her hands trembled as she struggled to maintainposure.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°Ivy, the evidence is all over the inte. We¡¯ve received multipleints from other designers. You¡¯re trending on every major blog and social media tform right now, and it¡¯s not in a good way. Our hands are tied.¡±


    The call ended abruptly, leaving Ivy staring nkly at the phone in her hand. The world around her seemed to tilt as her mind raced, trying to process the gravity of the situation.


    Her hard work, her years of dedication to the fashion world-it was all unraveling before her eyes.


    Frantically, she pulled up her email, hoping this was all some cruel prank. But as her inbox loaded, her worst fears were confirmed.


    There were countless emails from other agencies, all terminating their contracts with her, citing the stolen designs scandal. Headlines shed on every blog and social media tform: ¡°Ivy Kendrick used of Theft! Stolen Fashion Designs Rock the Industry!¡±


    Her vision blurred as tears welled up in her eyes. Ivy¡¯s knees buckled, and she copsed onto the floor, letting out a scream of frustration and pain.


    She clutched her head, her fingers tangling in her hair as she rocked back and forth, trying to make sense of the chaos.¡±This can¡¯t be happening,¡± she whispered hoarsely. ¡°Not after everything I¡¯ve worked for¡­¡±


    Her phone buzzed again, but this time it wasn¡¯t a call-it was a series of notifications from social media.


    Her hands shook as she opened one of the apps, seeingments flooding in, each one more vicious than thest.


    ¡°Ivy Kendrick is a fraud!¡±


    ¡°I knew her sess was too good to be true!¡±


    ¡°She stole those designs and thought she¡¯d get away with it.¡±


    Eachment felt like a dagger to her heart, tearing away at her confidence.


    The Ivy Kendrick, who once strutted through the fashion world with grace and power, was now crumbling into nothing. She screamed again, louder this time, the sound echoing through the mansion.


    ¡°No! This isn¡¯t fair!¡±Just as Ivy was about to throw her phone across the room, the door creaked open. It was Luca, who had rushed to the mansion after hearing themotion. His eyes widened at the sight of her on the floor, clearly in distress.¡±Ivy, what the hell is going on?¡± he asked, hurrying over to her. Ivy looked up at him, her face streaked with tears, her makeup smudged.


    ¡°They¡¯ve destroyed me, Luca! My career¡­ everything I¡¯ve worked for is gone!¡±


    Luca frowned, kneeling beside her. ¡°What are you talking about? Who did this?¡±Ivy pushed her phone into his hands, her voice trembling. ¡°Look. It¡¯s all over the inte. They¡¯re saying I stole designs-my designs!


    And now every agency is cklisting me.¡±Luca nced down at the screen, scrolling through the headlines andments. His expression darkened with each word. ¡°This is ridiculous. You didn¡¯t steal anything. You¡¯re one of the best designers out there.¡±Ivy let out a bitterugh.


    ¡°Tell that to the world. No one¡¯s going to believe me now. My reputation is ruined.¡±Luca put aforting hand on her shoulder.


    ¡°We¡¯ll figure this out, Ivy. There has to be a way to fix this.¡±


    ¡°How?¡± Ivy snapped, her frustration boiling over. ¡°Everyone¡¯s already turned against me! The media, the agencies, and even my so-called colleagues. They¡¯re eating this up like vultures.¡±Luca¡¯s jaw clenched as he thought.


    ¡°There¡¯s something off about this. It¡¯s too perfectly timed, too coordinated.


    Someone¡¯s pulling the strings behind the scenes.¡±Ivy¡¯s tear-filled eyes met his. ¡°But who? Who would want to ruin me like this?¡±


    Before Luca could answer, Ivy¡¯s phone buzzed again. She nced down, and her heart sank even further when she saw the caller ID-her father¡¯swyer.


    With trembling hands, she answered. ¡°Hello?¡±Thewyer¡¯s voice was cool and professional. ¡°Ivy, I¡¯m calling to inform you that the Kendrick family estate will be undergoing some restructuring.


    Due to the current scandal surrounding your name, your assets will be temporarily frozen until further notice. We¡¯ll be in touch with more details soon.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s mouth went dry. ¡°Frozen? What does that mean? I don¡¯t have ess to any of my money?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid so. Until this scandal is cleared up, we need to take precautions to protect the estate¡¯s reputation.¡±


    The call ended, leaving Ivy even more devastated than before.


    She dropped the phone, her body going numb. Her world was truly falling apart.


    Luca¡¯s eyes widened as he realized the magnitude of what was happening. ¡°Ivy¡­ we need to find out who¡¯s behind this.¡±Just as he said that another notification popped up on Ivy¡¯s phone-a headline that made both of them freeze.


    ¡°Be Kendrick Inherits Major Shares in Kendrick Enterprises. A New Era Begins!¡±Ivy¡¯s eyes narrowed as a dark realization dawned on her.


    ¡°Be¡­¡±Luca grabbed her phone and quickly read through the article. ¡°She¡¯s iming your father left her a substantial part of thepany. She¡¯s using this scandal to distract everyone while she takes control.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s hands clenched into fists, her anger now boiling over. ¡°That bitch! She¡¯s been plotting this the whole time.¡±Luca stood up, pacing the room as his mind worked through the possibilities.


    ¡°It makes sense. Be¡¯s always wanted power, and now with Ryan out ofmission and this scandal hanging over your head, she¡¯s swooping in to take everything.¡±


    Ivy pushed herself to her feet, her eyes burning with rage. ¡°She won¡¯t get away with this. I¡¯m not going to let her destroy my life.¡±Luca nodded in agreement.


    ¡°We need to fight back. But we have to be smart about it. Be¡¯s ying dirty, and if we go after her without a n, she¡¯ll bury us.¡±Ivy wiped away her tears, her determination hardening. ¡°I don¡¯t care what it takes. I¡¯m going to expose her for the snake she is.¡±Luca¡¯s eyes gleamed with approval.


    ¡°That¡¯s the spirit. We¡¯ll start by digging into her finances and her connections. There¡¯s no way she pulled this off on her own.¡±Ivy nodded, her mind already racing with ideas.


    ¡°She¡¯s been working with some of the media, I¡¯m sure of it. I¡¯ll get in touch with a few people I know and see if I can find out who¡¯s been feeding them this garbage about me.¡±


    As Ivy and Luca began plotting their next moves, across town, Be was lounging in her luxurious office, sipping a ss of champagne. She smiled to herself as she scrolled through the news on her phone, the headlines about Ivy¡¯s downfall bringing her immense satisfaction.


    ¡°Good,¡± Be muttered to herself. ¡°This should keep them distracted for a while.¡±Her phone rang, and she answered with a smirk. ¡°Yes?¡±On the other end of the line was a well-known media personality. ¡°It¡¯s done.


    The story¡¯s everywhere, and Ivy¡¯s name is mud. You¡¯re officially in control now.¡±Be¡¯s smile widened. ¡°Perfect. Keep the pressure on her. I want her to feel like she¡¯s drowning.¡±


    The voice on the other end chuckled darkly. ¡°Consider it done. She won¡¯t have a career left when we¡¯re finished with her.¡±Be hung up, leaning back in her chair with a satisfied sigh.


    ¡°Let theme for me,¡± she whispered to herself. ¡°I¡¯ve already won.¡±But as she toasted her victory, she had no idea that Ivy and Luca were already one step ahead, determined to uncover her secrets and take back what was rightfully theirs. And in the shadows, someone else was watching, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.


    Back at the mansion, Ivy and Luca sat down with a n in ce. ¡°We¡¯ll start with Be¡¯s allies,¡± Luca said. ¡°Find out who¡¯s backing her. If we can expose her connections, we¡¯ll have the leverage we need to take her down.¡±Ivy¡¯s face was set in a look of grim determination.


    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure she regrets ever crossing me.¡±As they plotted their next move, a knock came at the door. Ivy and Luca exchanged a wary nce. Luca stood and opened the door cautiously.


    A man in a ck suit stood on the threshold, his face unreadable. He handed Luca a sealed envelope. ¡°This is for Ivy Kendrick,¡± he said curtly before turning and walking away.


    Ivy¡¯s heart pounded as Luca handed her the envelope. She tore it open, her hands shaking slightly. Inside was a simple note with chilling words: ¡°You¡¯re not the only one with secrets.¡±Ivy¡¯s blood ran cold, and she looked up at Luca, her voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°Someone¡¯s watching you.¡±Luca frowned, his instincts kicking in. ¡°you need to be careful, Ivy. Whoever¡¯s behind this is someone close ¡°.

 Chapter 109

    Ryan sat on the edge of his hospital bed, still groggy from the effects of his recent injuries, when his phone buzzed on the bedside table.


    He picked it up, squinting at the bright screen. The notification that greeted him made his stomach churn-¡°Ivy Kendrick Caught in Stolen Design Scandal!¡± red the headline, followed by endlessments tearing his sister apart.


    He stared at the screen in disbelief, scrolling through post after post that dragged Ivy¡¯s name through the mud.¡±What the hell¡­?¡± Ryan muttered, his heart pounding as he quickly dialed Ivy¡¯s number. It rang once, twice, before Ivy¡¯s shaky voice came through. ¡°Hello?¡±


    ¡°What the hell is going on, Ivy?¡± Ryan barked, his voice sharp with concern. ¡°What is this? I¡¯m seeing all over the Inte about you stealing designs. Is this some kind of joke?¡±Ivy sniffled on the other end, but before she could respond, Ryan cut her off.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be at the mansion in ten minutes.¡±He ended the call abruptly, his blood boiling. Shoving his phone into his pocket, Ryan yanked on a jacket and stormed out of the hospital room, ignoring the concerned looks from the nurses.


    There was no time for exnations-he had to get to Ivy and figure out what the hell was happening.


    True to his word, Ryan pulled up at the Kendrick mansion less than ten minutester. He barely spared a nce at the butler who opened the door for him, rushing straight up the stairs to Ivy¡¯s room. The sight that greeted him when he opened the door froze him in his tracks. Ivy was curled up on the floor, her makeup smeared from crying, surrounded by crumpled tissues.


    Her hair was disheveled, and she looked utterly defeated.


    Ryan knelt beside her, his anger momentarily forgotten. ¡°Ivy, hey, calm down. What¡¯s going on? Talk to me.¡±Ivy¡¯s sobs quieted slightly as she looked up at him, her eyes red and swollen.


    ¡°Ryan, I didn¡¯t mean for this to happen¡­ I¡­.¡±Ryan held up a hand, his voice softer now. ¡°Just tell me what happened.¡±Ivy took a deep breath, struggling topose herself. ¡°It all started a few months ago¡­ I¡­I came home one day, and Iris¡¯s door was open. I was curious, so I went inside. That¡¯s when I saw it, Ryan-her sketchbook. It was filled with the most beautiful designs I¡¯d ever seen. They were¡­ perfect.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly. ¡°So you took them?¡±Ivy nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. ¡°I took them. I know it was wrong, but I didn¡¯t think¡­ I didn¡¯t think anyone would find out. I was under so much pressure to create something new, something that would set me apart from the rest, and when I saw those designs¡­ I just thought they would be my ticket. I thought it would be harmless.¡±


    Ryan felt a sinking sensation in his chest. ¡°Ivy, you didn¡¯t draw those designs yourself?¡± His voice wavered, trying to grasp the situation.¡±No,¡± Ivy confessed, fresh tears streaming down her face.


    ¡°They were Iris¡¯s¡­ I didn¡¯t know she¡¯d been looking for her sketchbook. I just¡­ I needed them.¡±Ryan stood up, pacing the room as he processed the information. ¡°So, the designs you imed as your own, the ones that brought you all that recognition¡­ they were Iris¡¯s?¡±


    Ivy nodded, her face contorting with guilt. ¡°Yes. I was selfish, Ryan. I know that now.¡±Ryan¡¯s hands clenched into fists, his mind reeling. ¡°Iris has been tearing this house apart looking for that sketchbook. And you had it the whole time. Ivy, that¡¯s low¡­ even for you.¡±Ivy¡¯s sobs intensified as she buried her face in her hands. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Ryan! I didn¡¯t think it would go this far. I thought¡­ I thought I could get away with it.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s voice shook with barely controlled emotion. ¡°You joined Mum in treating Iris like dirt since she stepped her foot into this family, didn¡¯t you? You stood by while she was humiliated, bullied, and ostracized. And all for what? So you could steal from her?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean for it to turn out like this!¡± Ivy cried, her voice breaking.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Ryan¡¯s jaw tightened as he continued pacing, running a hand through his hair in frustration. His eyes blurred with unshed tears, but he blinked them away, refusing to show weakness at this moment.


    ¡°You¡¯ve made Iris¡¯s life hell, Ivy. I can¡¯t believe you. All she ever wanted was a ce in this family, but you took every chance to tear her down.¡±Ivy sobbed harder, her guilt overwhelming her.


    ¡°I know I was wrong! I know! I¡¯ll apologize to her. I¡¯ll make things right.¡±Ryan turned to face her, his expression cold. ¡°You think an apology is going to fix this? Do you think it¡¯ll make up for years of cruelty? Iris is the only one in this family who deserved better, and you made sure she never got it.¡±His words hit Ivy like a ton of bricks. She curled into herself, her body trembling as she cried.


    ¡°Please, Ryan¡­ I¡¯m sorry.¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes softened, but his voice remained firm. ¡°You should¡¯ve realized this sooner. I hope you understand what you¡¯ve done when the truth finallyes out.¡±Ivy lifted her tear-streaked face to meet his gaze. ¡°What truth?¡±Ryan sighed heavily, leaning against the wall as he crossed his arms. ¡°You don¡¯t know the full story, Ivy. None of you do.¡±Ivy sniffed, wiping at her eyes. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    Ryan hesitated for a moment, contemting whether to reveal everything he knew. But after seeing the damage Ivy had caused, he knew he couldn¡¯t hold back any longer. ¡°Iris isn¡¯t just some random girl She¡¯s family. She¡¯s my sister-and yours too.¡±Ivy¡¯s eyes widened in shock, her breath catching in her throat.


    ¡°What¡­ what are you saying?¡±Ryan¡¯s voice was low, filled with regret. ¡°Mum¡¯s been hiding the truth from all of us. Iris is Dad¡¯s daughter. She¡¯s been part of this family all along, but Mum kept it a secret because she didn¡¯t want her here.¡±Ivy¡¯s world tilted as the weight of Ryan¡¯s words sank in.


    ¡°No¡­ that can¡¯t be true.¡±Ryan nodded, his expression grim. ¡°It is.


    Ivy stared at Ryan, her heart pounding in her chest.


    ¡°How¡­ how do you know this?¡±Ryan clenched his jaw, the bitterness of the truth cutting through him.


    ¡°So¡­ all this time, Iris was our sister? And I¡­ I stole from her, I treated her like she didn¡¯t belong.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s voice softened. ¡°Yes, Ivy. You did. And now you have to face the consequences of your actions.¡±Ivy let out a choked sob, burying her face in her hands. ¡°I can¡¯t believe this. I¡¯ve been such a fool.¡±Ryan took a deep breath, his own emotions swirling inside him. ¡°You need to make this right, Ivy. Not just for yourself, but for Iris too.¡±Ivy wiped at her eyes, her voice trembling.


    ¡°But how? How can I fix this?¡±Ryan stared at her, the weight of the situation heavy between them. ¡°You have to start by telling the truth. Admit what you did. Apologize to Iris and the world. You need to own up to your mistakes.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s heart pounded with fear at the thought of confessing publicly. ¡°But Ryan, if I do that, my career will be over.¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes hardened.


    ¡°Your career is already hanging by a thread, Ivy. If you don¡¯te clean, you¡¯ll lose everything-your reputation, your dignity, and any chance you have of making things right with Iris.¡±Ivy nodded slowly, realizing that Ryan was right. She had to take responsibility for her actions, no matter the cost. ¡°Okay,¡± she whispered, her voice barely audible. ¡°I¡¯ll do it. I¡¯ll tell the truth.¡±Ryan watched her for a moment, his anger fading as he saw the genuine remorse in her eyes. He walked over to her, cing a hand on her shoulder.


    ¡°Good. That¡¯s the first step. But don¡¯t expect this to be easy. It¡¯s going to take time to earn Iris¡¯s forgiveness-if she ever gives it.¡±Ivy looked up at him, her face pale and drawn.


    ¡°Do you think she¡¯ll ever forgive me?¡±Ryan sighed, running a hand through his hair. ¡°I don¡¯t know, Ivy. But you owe it to her to try.¡±Ivy nodded, her heart heavy with regret. ¡°I will. I¡¯ll make it right.¡±


    Ryan stood up, his expression distant as he prepared to leave the room. ¡°I hope so. Because the truth always finds a way ofing out.¡±As he turned to leave, Ivy¡¯s phone buzzed with a new message.

 Chapter 110

    Be stepped into the quiet Kendrick mansion, her heels clicking on the marble floor as she surveyed her surroundings. The house seemed unusually still, almost eerily so.


    She furrowed her brows, half expecting to see Ryan lounging on the couch or flipping through business papers, but the living room was empty.


    Her curiosity piqued, Be stopped a passing maid. ¡°Where¡¯s Ryan?¡±The maid looked startled for a moment before she quicklyposed herself.


    ¡°Mr. Ryan left the house earlier today, ma¡¯am. He hasn¡¯t returned yet.¡±Be¡¯s eyes narrowed in suspicion. ¡°He left? Where did he go?¡±The maid shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, ma¡¯am. He didn¡¯t say.¡±Be waved the maid off, feeling a knot of unease begin to form in her stomach.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Ryan leaving without telling her was one thing, but his being gone for hours on end without a word? That was out of character.


    Especially now. Her mind raced, thinking back to thest few days and the subtle changes she had noticed in him. Ryan had been quiet, unusually so, and he had grown distant far more distant than when he had first lost his memory.


    The nagging thought that had been eating away at her resurfaced, gnawing at her insides. Could he have regained his memory? She made her way upstairs to her room, trying to shake the uneasy feeling that clung to her like a shadow. Her mind was spinning with possibilities, questions she couldn¡¯t answer.


    Be closed the door behind her, her heels sinking into the plush carpet as she moved towards her bathroom.


    If Ryan had regained his memory, he would have said something by now, right? She stepped into the bathroom, ncing at herself in the mirror before turning on the shower. The steam rose, fogging the ss, but her thoughts remained crystal clear.


    Ryan was never good at hiding his emotions-he wasn¡¯t the type to keep secrets or y mind games. She leaned against the sink, trying to make sense of the situation. If Ryan had regained his memory, he would have known who she was. He would have known she wasn¡¯t Iris.


    The fact that he continued to call her by Iris¡¯s name meant one of two things: either his memory was still foggy, or¡­ Her eyes narrowed at her reflection. Or he¡¯s pretending.


    A chill ran down her spine at the thought. But why would Ryan pretend? She shook her head, dismissing the idea as absurd. Ryan wasn¡¯t the type to y along with a lie. He was far too blunt, too transparent.


    And yet¡­ Be turned off the faucet, stepping into the shower as the hot water cascaded over her, washing away the tension in her muscles but doing little to calm the storm brewing in her mind. Ryan had been too calm, too collectedtely.


    It was like he was waiting for something, or worse, plotting something. Her hands ran through her wet hair as she thought back to thepany Ryan had been keeping. His parents, Luca¡­ Luca, especially, had been hovering around Ryan ever since the ident.


    He was fiercely protective, too protective. And if Luca was involved, that meant anything was possible. Be¡¯s heart pounded in her chest. If Ryan had regained his memory and was working with Luca, it would only be a matter of time before everything unraveled.


    She turned off the shower, her mind still racing as she dried herself off and slipped into a silk robe. What if Ryan had already figured everything out? What if he was just waiting for the right moment to strike?


    She could feel the walls closing in around her, her carefullyid ns crumbling before her very eyes. But no, that didn¡¯t seem right. Ryan was impulsive. If he knew the truth, he would have confronted her by now.


    And yet¡­ that gnawing feeling of doubt wouldn¡¯t leave her alone.


    She grabbed her phone off the dresser and scrolled through her contacts until she found the one person she needed to speak to right now-her brother.


    Be pressed the call button, pacing the room as she waited for him to pick up. After a few rings, his familiar voice answered on the other end. ¡°Be? What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°We need to talk,¡± she said, her voice low and urgent. ¡°Something¡¯s off with Ryan.¡±Her brother¡¯s tone shifted, bing serious. ¡°What do you mean?¡±Be sat down on the edge of the bed, ncing at the closed door before continuing.


    ¡°He¡¯s been acting strange. Distant. And today, he left the house without telling anyone. I think¡­ I think he might have regained his memory.¡±There was a pause on the other end of the line. ¡°Are you sure? He hasn¡¯t said anything?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Be admitted, biting her lip. ¡°He¡¯s still calling me Iris. But that¡¯s what¡¯s bothering me. Ryan is bad at lying, you know that. If he¡¯s regained his memory, why is he still pretending I¡¯m Iris? It doesn¡¯t add up.¡±


    Her brother was silent for a moment as if considering her words. ¡°If Ryan¡¯s memory is back, he might be keeping quiet to figure things out. Maybe he doesn¡¯t want anyone to know just yet.¡±Be frowned, gripping the phone tighter. ¡°But why? If he knows who I am, why wouldn¡¯t he confront me?¡±


    ¡°Maybe he¡¯s ying a long game,¡± her brother suggested, his voice thoughtful. ¡°If he¡¯s working with Luca, they could be nning something.


    They¡¯d want to gather as much information as possible before making a move.¡±Be felt her stomach twist at the thought. ¡°But Ryan isn¡¯t like that. He¡¯s never been good at keeping secrets.¡±Her brother sighed.


    ¡°People change, Be. Especially after something as traumatic as losing their memory. He could be a different person now.¡±Be leaned back against the headboard, her mind swirling with possibilities. ¡°So, what do we do? If he¡¯s ying us, we need to figure it out fast.¡±


    ¡°I agree,¡± her brother replied, his voice steady. ¡°We need to keep a close eye on him. Do you still have men following him?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Be said, nodding even though he couldn¡¯t see her. ¡°But they haven¡¯t reported anything unusual.¡±


    ¡°Good. Keep it that way. We can¡¯t afford to make any mistakes now. If Ryan¡¯s memory is back, we need to be prepared for whatever he¡¯s nning.¡±Be¡¯s pulse quickened. ¡°And if he¡¯s not pretending?¡±


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll proceed as nned,¡± her brother said, his tone cold and calcted. ¡°But until we know for sure, don¡¯t make any moves. We can¡¯t tip our hand.¡±


    Be swallowed, her throat dry. ¡°I understand.¡±There was a brief silence before her brother spoke again.


    ¡°Be, remember what¡¯s at stake here. We can¡¯t afford to lose control of the situation. If Ryan regains full control of the Kendrick Empire, we¡¯re done. You know that.¡±


    Be¡¯s heart pounded in her chest. She knew exactly what was at stake-her future, her power, everything she and her brother had worked for. Losing wasn¡¯t an option.¡±I won¡¯t let that happen,¡± Be said firmly, her voice steadying.


    ¡°Ryan won¡¯t win. Not this time.¡±Her brother¡¯s voice softened slightly, but the edge remained.


    ¡°Good. Stay sharp, Be. We¡¯re close to finishing this.¡±With that, the call ended, leaving Be alone with her thoughts.


    She tossed the phone aside, staring at the ceiling as her mind raced. She couldn¡¯t afford to lose focus now, not when everything was on the line. If Ryan was pretending, if he had regained his memory, she had to find out.


    And if he hadn¡¯t¡­ well, that was even more dangerous. She needed to be prepared for both scenarios. Be stood up, her resolve hardening. She would y along, just like Ryan. She would smile, she would be patient, and she would watch his every move.


    But the moment he slipped, the moment she caught even the slightest hint that his memory had returned¡­ she would strike. With renewed determination, Be walked over to the window and looked out at the sprawling grounds of the Kendrick estate.


    She couldn¡¯t afford to lose her grip on this empire, not now, not ever. This was her game, and she intended to win. As she stood there, a knock came at her door, pulling her from her thoughts.


    She turned, expecting to see a maid or perhaps one of her men with a report, but when she opened the door, the person standing there made her blood run cold.


    ¡°Be,¡± came the smooth, deep voice of Luca, his eyes sharp and calcting. ¡°We need to talk.¡±Be¡¯s heart raced, but she forced a calm smile to her lips


    ¡°Of course. Come in.¡±As Luca stepped into the room, closing the door behind him, Be couldn¡¯t help but feel the tension rising. She had been right all along-something was happening. And whatever it was, Luca was now a part of it.

 Chapter 111

    The atmosphere inside the dimly lit room was suffocating, almost too quiet forfort.


    Irisy on a small, ufortable bed, her hands resting over her swollen belly. She could feel the weight of each breath she took as if the air had be heavy with tension.


    The room had be her prison for months now, buttely, she could feel a shift-her time was drawing near.


    She winced slightly as the baby inside her kicked, a reminder that she wasn¡¯t alone, despite the loneliness that consumed her.


    She was nearing her delivery date, and the nurse who came to check on her regrly had confirmed it during herst visit.


    ¡°It won¡¯t be long now, Ms. Iris,¡± the nurse had said softly, a hint of sympathy in her eyes.


    ¡°You need to rest as much as you can.¡±But how could Iris rest? She had spent thest month locked up in this room, her fate uncertain, surrounded by enemies who were waiting for the moment she became vulnerable.


    She knew that once she gave birth, her life would be in even greater danger. Be¡¯s cruelty knew no bounds, and the fact that Iris was pregnant with a child out of wedlock gave her half-sister every reason to despise her.


    The door creaked open, and the same nurse who had visited her before entered the room. She was carrying a tray with some water and medication, her face somber.


    Iris sat up slightly, her eyes following the nurse as she approached.¡±How are you feeling today?¡± the nurse asked quietly, cing the tray on a small table beside the bed.


    ¡°Like I¡¯m about to break in two,¡± Iris muttered, her voice strained. She nced at the nurse, searching her face for some hint of what was toe.


    ¡°How much longer do I have?¡±The nurse pressed her lips together before responding. ¡°A few days, maybe less. You need to be careful. The delivery coulde at any time now, and you¡¯ll need strength for when it does.¡±


    Iris nodded, though her thoughts were far fromforting. She had no idea what would happen once she gave birth. Would Be let her live? She doubted it. There had been nomunication, no sign of mercy from her half-sister since the day she¡¯d been imprisoned in this room.


    Suddenly, the nurse¡¯s phone buzzed, and she nced at it with a look of concern. After a moment, she slipped it into her pocket and gave Iris a hesitant look.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be backter to check on you,¡± she said quickly before turning on her heel and leaving the room. Iris leaned back against the pillows, closing her eyes as her heart raced. She knew something wasn¡¯t right. Be was up to something-she could feel it.


    In another part of the city, Be sat in hervish bedroom, sipping wine from a crystal ss as she paced the floor. Her phone rang, and she nced at the caller ID before answering.¡±Yes?¡± she snapped, her tone impatient.


    The voice on the other end belonged to one of her hired goons, the ones tasked with keeping Iris under constant surveince. ¡°Ms. Be, the nurse just informed us that Iris is almost due. It could happen any day now.¡±Be rolled her eyes, letting out an exaggerated sigh of frustration.


    ¡°Fine. Keep an eye on her and let me know the minute she goes intobor. I don¡¯t care what time it is-call me immediately.¡±She hung up the phone without waiting for a response and threw it onto the bed.


    Pacing back and forth, she sipped her wine, her mind swirling with dark thoughts.¡±She¡¯s giving birth to a bastard, obviously,¡± Be muttered to herself, her lips curling into a sneer. ¡°I won¡¯t allow her to survive this.¡±


    She paused, looking out therge window that overlooked the city skyline, her reflection cold and calcting in the ss. A cruel smile tugged at the corners of her mouth.


    ¡°She dies after giving birth to the child,¡± Be said softly, as though saying the words out loud made them more real. ¡°No loose ends. No distractions.¡±A darkugh escaped her lips as she downed the rest of her wine in one swift motion.


    The n was simple. Once Iris gave birth, she would have no use for her anymore. The baby would be dealt withter, but Iris-well, Iris would pay the ultimate price for crossing her. Be reveled in the thought of her half-sister¡¯s demise, imagining the helpless look in Iris¡¯s eyes as the life drained from her.


    Her phone buzzed again, but this time it was her brother calling. Be picked up, the smug look still stered on her face.


    ¡°Everything is going ording to n,¡± she said confidently before he could speak. ¡°Iris will give birth any day now, and once she does, we¡¯ll be rid of her for good.¡±Her brother¡¯s voice was calm on the other end.


    ¡°Are you sure you want to go through with this? Ryan¡¯s been asking a lot of questionstely. If he finds out what we¡¯re doing-¡±


    ¡°Ryan is none of your concern,¡± Be interrupted, her tone sharp. ¡°He doesn¡¯t have the guts to stop me, memory or no memory. And even if he did figure things out, it would be toote.¡±


    Her brother hesitated for a moment before continuing. ¡°Just be careful, Be. We¡¯re walking a fine line here. If anything goes wrong, we could lose everything.¡±


    ¡°Nothing will go wrong,¡± Be said confidently. ¡°I have everything under control.¡±She ended the call, tossing the phone onto the bed once again.


    For the first time in months, she feltpletely in control of the situation. Iris¡¯s time was running out, and soon, the world would be free of her once and for all.


    Back in her room, Iris stared at the ceiling, her mind a blur of fear and uncertainty. The baby shifted inside her again, and she winced, cing her hand on her belly to calm the movement.


    She knew she was running out of time, but she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something terrible wasing. The door opened again, and this time it wasn¡¯t the nurse-it was one of Be¡¯s men.


    He stepped into the room, his hulking figure casting a shadow over the dim light. Iris felt her pulse quicken, her body tensing instinctively.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± the man said, his voice gruff but indifferent. ¡°I¡¯m just here to check on you.¡±Iris didn¡¯t respond, watching him with wary eyes as he moved around the room, his gaze sweeping over her and the small space. He didn¡¯t say anything else, but his presence was a reminder of how little control she had over her fate.


    As the man left, Iris felt a wave of exhaustion wash over her. She closed her eyes, trying to steady her breathing, but her mind wouldn¡¯t stop racing.


    She knew that she needed to stay strong, not just for herself but for the baby. But how could she fight when she was so weak, so helpless?


    The thought of escape crossed her mind, but the reality of her situation was crushing. Even if she managed to break free from this room, where would she go?


    Be had eyes everywhere, and Iris was too close to giving birth to run far.


    A single tear slid down her cheek as she thought of the life she had been forced into-the lies, the betrayal, the constant danger.


    And now, her child was caught in the crossfire of Be¡¯s ruthless ambition.


    As the hours dragged on, the pain in her body grew worse. The baby wasing, and there was nothing she could do to stop it.


    She didn¡¯t know what Be¡¯s ns were, but she had a sinking feeling that her life was hanging by a thread. All she could do was wait, hope, and pray that somehow, she and her child would make it out alive.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Back in her mansion, Be poured herself another ss of wine, the anticipation almost too much to bear. She couldn¡¯t wait to get the call that Iris was inbor, to know that soon, her biggest obstacle would be gone forever.


    She twirled the winess in her hand, her lips curling into a cruel smile.


    ¡°Enjoy yourst moments, Iris,¡± Be whispered to herself, her voice dripping with malice.


    ¡°Because once that baby is born, so is your death sentence.¡±As she raised the ss to her lips, a knock sounded at her door. Be paused, her smile faltering as she turned towards the noise.


    ¡°Who is it?¡± she called out, her voice sharp. There was no answer. Be set the winess down, her heart suddenly racing. She crossed the room, her heels clicking on the hardwood floor as she reached for the door handle.


    When she opened it, the figure standing in the doorway made her freeze in ce. It wasn¡¯t one of her men. It wasn¡¯t her brother. It was Ryan. And the look in his eyes told her everything she needed to know. He remembered.

 Chapter 112

    The once vibrant Kendrick mansion, always buzzing with activity, now stood still, suffocating in an air of despair. The echoes ofughter and lively conversations had faded, reced by heavy silence.


    Ivy had locked herself in her room for days, refusing toe out, refusing to speak. No one dared to disturb her any longer-not even Mrs. Rose, who had tried relentlessly to get through to her.


    Inside her room, Ivy sat curled up in a corner, her eyes swollen from crying. Tear-streaked lines ran down her cheeks, her once-perfect appearance now unrecognizable.


    She had refused to eat, to sleep, or to let anyone in. Her world had crumbled in the blink of an eye, and now she was drowning in her own guilt and shame.


    Everything she had built-her career, her reputation, her self-worth-was gone. Another knock came at the door, this time softer than before.¡±Ivy,¡± Mrs. Rose¡¯s voice filtered through the heavy wooden door, her tone gentle but firm.


    ¡°Please, sweetheart, you need to eat something. Just a few bites. You can¡¯t keep doing this to yourself.¡±


    There was no response. Ivy simply stared nkly at the wall, hugging her knees to her chest. Her mother¡¯s voice was distant, like a faint whisper in the back of her mind. She felt numb. Empty.


    After several moments of silence, Mrs. Rose sighed heavily from the other side of the door. ¡°Ivy, I know you¡¯re hurting. But shutting yourself off from the world isn¡¯t going to make it any better.


    You have to face this¡­ eventually.¡±Another pause, but again, no response.¡±I¡¯ll leave some food outside your door,¡± Mrs. Rose said, trying to maintain herposure.


    ¡°Please, at least consider eating. I¡¯lle backter.¡±The sound of footsteps retreating echoed down the hallway, and soon, everything went silent again. Ivy¡¯s eyes filled with fresh tears, but this time she didn¡¯t cry out.


    She didn¡¯t scream. She just sat there, her chest tightening with guilt and regret. It was the weight of what she had done that kept her paralyzed.


    Across the mansion, Mr. Kendrick sat in his study, a shadow of the man he once was. His face had grown gaunt, his eyes hollow and distant.


    The weight of the recent revtions had taken a toll on him. He barely spoke anymore, and when he did, it was in short, broken sentences.


    The fire that once burned in his eyes-the confidence, the determination-was long gone. He sat at his desk, staring at a family photo that had once brought him so much pride.


    In the picture, he was standing tall, his arm around Mrs. Rose, with Ivy and Ryan on either side. They were all smiling, but that was before the secrets, the lies, the betrayals.


    Now, that picture felt like a lie. The door to his study creaked open slightly, and Mrs. Rose stepped inside, her face drawn with worry.¡±Honey, you need to eat something,¡± she said softly, walking over to his desk. ¡°You¡¯ve barely touched your food in days. I¡¯m worried about you.¡±Mr. Kendrick didn¡¯t respond.


    He kept staring at the photo, his fingers trembling slightly as he held it. His eyes flickered with the memory of better days, of times when his family seemed perfect, unbreakable. But now, he couldn¡¯t even look his children in the eye without feeling like he had failed them all.


    ¡°They need you,¡± Mrs. Rose continued, her voice strained. ¡°Ryan, Ivy¡­ they¡¯re both going through so much right now. You can¡¯t just shut down like this. You have to be there for them.¡±


    Finally, Mr. Kendrick looked up at her, his eyes red-rimmed and full of sadness. ¡°I¡¯ve already lost them, Rose,¡± he said in a hoarse whisper. ¡°Everything I¡¯ve built¡­ everything I¡¯ve worked for¡­ it¡¯s all gone. My children don¡¯t even recognize me anymore.¡±? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s face softened as she knelt beside him, cing a hand on his knee. ¡°We can fix this. We can rebuild. But you have to stay strong-for them, for us.¡±He shook his head slowly, his gaze drifting back to the photo.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I have anything left to give.¡±Back upstairs, Ivy¡¯s phone buzzed on her nightstand, snapping her out of her trance. She hadn¡¯t touched it in days, too ashamed to face the world.


    The thought of what was out there-the usations, the judgment-was too much to bear. But the phone buzzed again, and then again. She hesitated before slowly crawling over to the nightstand and picking it up.


    When she looked at the screen, her heart dropped. It was Ryan. She hadn¡¯t spoken to him since that night-the night everything had fallen apart. He had been so angry, so disappointed in her. She could still hear his voice echoing in her head:


    ¡°You joined mum in maltreating that poor girl. You made sure you seized every opportunity to humiliate her.¡±Her hand shook as she stared at his name on the screen, debating whether to answer.


    After a few long seconds, she took a deep breath and pressed the call button, holding the phone to her ear.¡±Ivy,¡± Ryan¡¯s voice came through, calm but firm.


    ¡°We need to talk.¡±She swallowed hard, her throat dry. ¡°Ryan, I¡­ I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°I know you are,¡± he said quietly. ¡°But being sorry doesn¡¯t change what¡¯s happened.¡±Her chest tightened, tears welling up in her eyes again. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean for things to get this bad. I didn¡¯t¡­ I didn¡¯t know it woulde to this.¡±


    ¡°Ivy, you need to understand something,¡± Ryan said, his tone serious. ¡°What you did¡­ what we did¡­ it has consequences. You can¡¯t hide from this forever.¡±She sniffed, wiping away a tear that had fallen onto her cheek.


    ¡°I know. I just¡­ I don¡¯t know how to fix it.¡±Ryan sighed on the other end of the line. ¡°It¡¯s not about fixing it. It¡¯s about owning up to it. You need toe out of that room and face what¡¯s happening, Ivy.


    We can¡¯t keep pretending that everything is fine. It¡¯s not.¡±Her heart ached at his words, but she knew he was right. She couldn¡¯t stay locked away forever, hiding from the mess she had created. But the thought of stepping outside, of facing the world, was terrifying.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I can,¡± she whispered, her voice shaky.¡±You don¡¯t have a choice,¡± Ryan replied gently. ¡°Hiding isn¡¯t going to make it go away. We¡¯re in this together, whether you like it or not.


    But I need you toe out of that room and talk to me. Please.¡±Ivy took a deep breath, closing her eyes as she tried to gather the strength she needed.


    For the first time in days, she felt a flicker of hope-a small, fragile light in the darkness. Maybe, just maybe, she could find a way out of this.


    ¡°I¡¯ll¡­ I¡¯ll try,¡± she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper. Ryan was silent for a moment before he spoke again. ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting downstairs. Take your time, but please,e out.¡±


    The line went dead, and Ivy slowly lowered the phone, her heart pounding in her chest. She didn¡¯t know if she was ready to face Ryan, to face the world outside her room.


    But she knew that she couldn¡¯t stay locked up forever. She had to find a way to move forward, no matter how painful it was. Downstairs, Ryan sat on the edge of the couch, his foot tapping anxiously against the floor.


    He had been trying to stay calm, but the past few days had been a whirlwind of emotions. His sister was falling apart, his parents were barely speaking, and the weight of everything that had happened was crushing him.


    The door creaked open behind him, and he turned around to see Mrs. Rose standing there, her face drawn with worry.¡±Did you talk to her?¡± she asked, her voice soft.


    Ryan nodded, running a hand through his hair. ¡°Yeah. I think she¡¯s going toe out soon.¡±Mrs. Rose sighed, walking over to the couch and sitting down beside him. ¡°I¡¯m worried about her, Ryan. She¡¯s been shutting everyone out, and I don¡¯t know how to reach her.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s scared,¡± Ryan said quietly. ¡°She¡¯s scared of what¡¯s out there-what people are saying about her. And honestly, I don¡¯t me her.¡±Mrs. Rose looked down at her hands, her expression pained. ¡°I just want to make things right, for all of us.¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw tightened as he looked away.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s that simple anymore, Mom.¡±Before Mrs. Rose could respond, they both heard the faint sound of footstepsing from the staircase. They turned their heads to see Ivy slowly making her way down, her face pale and her eyes red from crying.¡±Ivy,¡± Mrs. Rose breathed, standing up and rushing to her daughter¡¯s side.


    Ivy winced as her mother wrapped her arms around her, but she didn¡¯t pull away. She just stood there, letting herself be held as the weight of everything pressed down on her.¡±I¡¯m so sorry,¡± Ivy whispered, her voice cracking.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what to do.¡±Mrs. Rose pulled back slightly, her hands resting on Ivy¡¯s shoulders. ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out,¡± she said softly, brushing a strand of hair away from Ivy¡¯s face. ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out together.

 Chapter 113

    The hospital¡¯s sterile, quiet air weighed heavily on Mrs. Rose as she walked briskly down the corridor, her high heels echoing against the linoleum floor.


    The scent of disinfectant stung her nose, but it was the least of her worries. Her mind was tangled in the chaos of her crumbling family. She had always prided herself on being in control, but now, everything was falling apart, and she could barely keep up.


    She arrived at Dr. Parker¡¯s office, her heartbeat quickening as she knocked on the door. The familiar voice of the doctor called her in, and she took a deep breath before stepping inside.


    Dr. Parker sat behind his desk, his usual calm and collected demeanor intact. His brown hair was neatlybed, and his hazel eyes flickered with knowing confidence.


    He looked up, his gaze locking onto hers as she closed the door behind her.¡±Rose,¡± he greeted, his tone neutral butced with understanding. ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting you this early. What¡¯s happened?¡±


    Mrs. Rose sighed, running a hand through her hair as she took a seat in the chair across from him. She was trying to maintain herposure, but the strain was evident in her voice. ¡°Everything¡¯s unraveling, Parker. Ken¡­ he¡¯s a shadow of himself.


    He barely speaks to anyone, and he¡¯spletely withdrawn. Ivy¡¯s career is hanging by a thread, and she¡¯s locked herself in her room for days, crying her eyes out.¡±


    Dr. Parker leaned back in his chair, folding his hands on hisp.


    ¡°And what about Ryan?¡±Mrs. Rose shook her head, her expression tightening with frustration. ¡°He still hasn¡¯t regained his memory. He¡¯s been slipping in and out of confusion, and every time he sees Be, he¡¯s more convinced she¡¯s Iris. She¡¯s taken full advantage of his condition.¡±


    ¡°Hmm,¡± Dr. Parker mused, his eyes narrowing slightly. ¡°And Be?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s running thepany, or should I say, running it into the ground,¡± Mrs. Rose spat, her anger ring up. ¡°She¡¯s taken control of everything, and Ken is too weak to stop her. She¡¯s creating chaos, making decisions that are ruining the business. I¡¯m sure she¡¯s behind Ivy¡¯s downfall, too. She knows Ivy is a threat, so she¡¯s sabotaging her career.¡±


    Dr. Parker was silent for a moment, considering her words carefully. He nodded slowly, leaning forward as he spoke in a low voice. ¡°We need to act quickly, Rose. If we want to regain control, we can¡¯t afford to wait any longer.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes darkened as she nced around the room, making sure no one was within earshot. She leaned closer, lowering her voice to a conspiratorial whisper.


    ¡°Do you have the substance? We can¡¯t let this drag on.¡±Dr. Parker nodded, reaching into a drawer in his desk and pulling out a small vial. The liquid inside was clear, almost unnoticeable, but the power it held was undeniable.


    ¡°This,¡± he said, holding up the vial between his fingers, ¡°will elerate the process. The injection we gave Ken is working, but it¡¯s slow. He¡¯ll eventually waste away, but we don¡¯t have that kind of time. Add this to his food or drink, and within days, his condition will worsen. He¡¯ll be out of the picture much faster.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes gleamed as she took the vial from him, turning it over in her hands. The solution to her problems seemed to be right within her grasp, but the weight of her decisions was growing heavier by the second.


    ¡°Once Ken is gone,¡± Dr. Parker continued, his voice steady and assured, ¡°I¡¯ll step in as his best friend. No one will suspect anything. I¡¯ve been by his side for years; it will look natural. With Ken out of the way, we can deal with Be.


    She¡¯s a loose cannon, and we both know she¡¯s responsible for Ivy¡¯s copse and Iris¡¯s disappearance.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s grip tightened around the vial as she nodded.


    ¡°Iris¡­ Be had a hand in that, I¡¯m sure of it. Ryan has been asking questions, and the more time passes, the more I fear he¡¯ll start to put pieces together.¡±


    ¡°We can use that to our advantage,¡± Dr. Parker said, his lips curving into a sly smile. ¡°Ryan doesn¡¯t remember anything. Right now, he¡¯s a nk te. Whatever we tell him will be his truth. Once Ken is out of the way, we¡¯ll have full control over him. He¡¯ll believe what we want him to believe.¡±This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s heart pounded in her chest, a mixture of relief and fear swirling inside her. They were ying a dangerous game, one that could easily spiral out of control if they weren¡¯t careful. But they hade too far to turn back now.¡±So, we focus on Ken first,¡± she said firmly, her voice steady despite the turmoil in her mind.


    ¡°Then we deal with Be, and finally, we¡¯ll bring Ryan under our control.¡±Dr. Parker nodded, his expression serious. ¡°Yes, but we must be swift. The longer we wait, the more risks we take.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s fingers clenched around the vial as she stood up from her chair.


    ¡°I¡¯m tired of waiting. Let¡¯s finish this.¡±Later that evening, Mrs. Rose returned to the mansion, her mind racing with the details of her conversation with Dr. Parker. She entered the grand dining room, where Mr. Kendrick sat at the head of the table, staring nkly at the food in front of him.


    He looked even more frail than he had that morning, his once-strong presence diminished into something fragile and broken.¡±Ken,¡± Mrs. Rose said softly, walking over to him and cing a hand on his shoulder. ¡°You need to eat.¡±He didn¡¯t respond, his eyes remaining fixed on the untouched te of food.


    Mrs. Rose sighed, pulling out the chair beside him and sitting down. She looked at him, her heart a mixture of pity and frustration. The man she had once admired for his strength and determination was gone, and in his ce was this hollow shell of a person. It almost made what she was about to do easier.


    Almost.¡±I made your favorite,¡± she said, trying to keep her voice light. ¡°It¡¯s chicken parmigiana. You used to love this dish.¡±Ken blinked slowly, as if registering her words but unable to muster the energy to respond.


    Mrs. Rose bit her lip, ncing down at her pocket where the vial rested. This was the moment. She had to act quickly before anyone noticed. She reached into her pocket and discreetly poured the liquid into Ken¡¯s ss of water, watching as it dissolved instantly.


    ¡°There,¡± she said, her voice soft as she pushed the ss toward him. ¡°Just a little sip, Ken. You¡¯ll feel better, I promise.¡±Ken didn¡¯t move at first, but eventually, he reached for the ss with a shaky hand and brought it to his lips. Mrs. Rose watched as he took a small sip, her heart pounding in her chest.


    The first step of their n was in motion, and soon, everything would be set into ce.


    A few hourster, Mrs. Rose found herself pacing the long hallways of the mansion, her nerves frayed and her mind racing.


    She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of unease, the nagging thought that something could go wrong. But she knew they had no other choice. If they didn¡¯t act now, they would lose everything.


    Her phone buzzed in her hand, and she quickly answered it, recognizing Dr. Parker¡¯s number.¡±It¡¯s done,¡± she whispered into the phone, her voice trembling slightly.


    ¡°He drank it.¡±Dr. Parker¡¯s voice was calm on the other end. ¡°Good. Now we wait. It won¡¯t take long for him to start feeling the effects. Stay close to him, and make sure no one suspects anything.¡±


    Mrs. Rose nodded, even though he couldn¡¯t see her. ¡°I¡¯ll handle it. Just be ready.¡±She hung up the phone and leaned against the wall, closing her eyes for a moment. She had crossed a line-a line she couldn¡¯t uncross-and there was no going back now.


    But she couldn¡¯t afford to feel guilty. Not yet. Not until everything was over. The next morning, Mrs. Rose woke up early, her stomach twisting in knots.


    She dressed quickly and made her way to Ken¡¯s room, her heart racing as she approached his door. She knocked lightly but received no answer.¡±Ken?¡± she called, her voice trembling.


    Still no response.


    She opened the door slowly, peeking inside. The sight that met her eyes made her stomach drop. Ken was lying in bed, his face pale and his breathing shallow. He looked worse than he had the night before, his condition deteriorating rapidly.


    ¡°Ken?¡± she whispered, rushing to his side and shaking his shoulder gently. ¡°Ken, wake up.¡±He didn¡¯t stir.


    Panic surged through her as she grabbed her phone and dialed Dr. Parker¡¯s number, her hands shaking.


    ¡°He¡¯s¡­ he¡¯s not waking up,¡± she stammered when he answered. ¡°It¡¯s happening faster than we thought.¡±Dr. Parker¡¯s voice remained calm, but there was a note of urgency in it. ¡°Stay calm, Rose. It¡¯s working. Just keep everyone away from him for now. I¡¯ll be there soon.¡±


    Mrs. Rose hung up, her heart racing. The endgame was fast approaching, but the thought of what woulde next sent a chill down her spine. There was no turning back now.

 Chapter 114

    The tension in the air was thick as Mrs. Rose stood inches away from Dr. Parker in his dimly lit office.


    Their conversation had taken a dark turn, but as always, there was an undercurrent of something else-something much more primal between them.


    The weight of their shared secrets seemed to pull them together, and before either could think twice, they had closed the gap between them.


    Dr. Parker¡¯s hands found Mrs. Rose¡¯s waist, pulling her closer as their lips collided in a heated, passionate kiss. It wasn¡¯t just desire; it was desperation, a shared hunger that had grown more intense with every plot they devised.


    Their mouths moved against each other¡¯s with urgency, tongues intertwining as they devoured each other like two people starved for affection. Every touch was a spark, every breath shared between them a reminder of the danger they were both neck-deep in.


    Dr. Parker¡¯s hand trailed up to the nape of Rose¡¯s neck, pulling her even closer as if the kiss could erase the uncertainty that clouded their minds.


    Rose moaned softly into his mouth, gripping thepel of his white coat, pulling him tighter against her.


    For a moment, the world outside the office door disappeared. There was no Ken, no Be, no plotting or maniption. Just the two of them lost in the whirlwind of their forbidden passion.


    When they finally broke apart, gasping for air, Dr. Parker rested his forehead against hers. His eyes darkened with desire as he whispered, ¡°I love you, Rose.¡±


    ¡°I love you more,¡± she replied breathlessly, her lips still tingling from the intensity of the kiss.


    He cupped her face with both hands, his thumb gently stroking her cheek. There was something in the way he looked at her-something possessive, almost dangerous. They were in this together now, bound by more than just their shared schemes.


    They were bound by this toxic love, the fire between them burning hotter with every moment they spent together.¡±Come over to the house tonight,¡± he said, his voice husky and low. ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting for you.¡±


    Rose nodded, her eyes lingering on him as she stepped back. She quickly smoothed down her dress, fixed her hair, and reapplied her lipstick.


    Every movement was deliberate, practiced, as if she had done this a hundred times before-because, in a way, she had. She knew how to y the part of the perfect wife, the perfect lover, the perfect co-conspirator. It was all just a game, and she was a master at it.


    Dr. Parker¡¯s eyes followed her every move, his gaze hungry as sheposed herself. He leaned back against his desk, watching her with a smirk that made her pulse quicken.


    ¡°Tonight, then,¡± she said, her voice more controlled now as she stepped toward the door.¡±I¡¯ll be waiting,¡± Dr. Parker replied, his eyes never leaving hers.


    With onest nce over her shoulder, Rose turned the doorknob and slipped out of his office. The moment she was outside, herposure returned in full force.


    She was no longer the woman caught up in a forbidden kiss with her lover. Now, she was Mrs. Rose Kendrick, the calcting matriarch of the Kendrick family, with an agenda that went beyond simple passion.


    As she drove back to the mansion, Rose¡¯s mind spun with thoughts of the evening ahead. She reyed the kiss with Dr. Parker over and over again in her head, savoring the feeling of his lips on hers, the way his hands gripped her body.


    But beneath that pleasure was the gnawing pressure of everything they were trying to aplish. They were on a knife¡¯s edge, and one wrong move could ruin everything. The house was quiet when she arrived. Too quiet


    The silence pressed in on her as she stepped through the door, kicking off her heels and making her way toward the kitchen. She needed a drink-something to calm her nerves and steady her thoughts.


    Pouring herself a ss of wine, she took a long sip, her eyes scanning the empty room. Her thoughts drifted to Ken. His deterioration was happening faster than even she had anticipated.


    She wondered how long it would be before his condition worsened to the point of no return. Guilt flickered in her chest, but she quickly pushed it away. Ken¡¯s downfall was necessary. There was no room for hesitation now.


    Just as she was about to take another sip, a voice startled her.¡±Mom?¡± Rose spun around to see Ivy standing at the entrance to the kitchen.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Her daughter¡¯s eyes were red and swollen, evidence of the days she had spent crying in her room. Ivy hadn¡¯t emerged for anything, and seeing her standing there now took Rose by surprise.


    ¡°Ivy,¡± Rose said, quickly regaining herposure. ¡°I didn¡¯t hear youe in.¡±Ivy walked into the room, her movements sluggish and heavy. She looked like a shell of herself, her usually vibrant personality dulled by whatever was eating away at her inside.


    She slumped down into one of the kitchen chairs, staring nkly at the floor.¡±Are you okay, sweetheart?¡± Rose asked, her voice soft but guarded. Ivy hadn¡¯t spoken much in the past few days, and Rose wasn¡¯t sure what to expect.


    Ivy shrugged, her eyes still fixed on the ground. ¡°I don¡¯t know. Everything¡¯s falling apart, and I don¡¯t know what to do.¡±Rose sighed and set down her wine ss. She had hoped for a quiet evening to herself before meeting with Dr. Parker, but it was clear that wasn¡¯t going to happen.


    Ivy needed her now, and despite everything, Rose still cared about her daughter¡¯s well-being.¡±I know things have been hardtely,¡± Rose said, walking over to sit beside Ivy. ¡°But we¡¯ll get through this. You¡¯re stronger than you think.¡±Ivy nced up at her mother, tears welling up in her eyes again.


    ¡°I don¡¯t feel strong. I feel¡­ lost.¡±Rose reached out, gently cing a hand on Ivy¡¯s arm. ¡°You¡¯re not lost. You¡¯ve just hit a rough patch, but we¡¯ll figure it out. You¡¯ll get back on track, I promise.


    ¡°Ivy shook her head, her voice breaking. ¡°I don¡¯t even know who I am anymore. My career is in ruins, Dad is¡­ dying¡­ and Ryan doesn¡¯t even know who I am. He barely remembers anything.¡± Rose felt a pang of guilt at the mention of Ken, but she forced herself to stayposed.


    ¡°Ryan wille around,¡± she said, her voice firm. ¡°He just needs time. And as for your career, we¡¯ll handle Be. She¡¯s not going to get away with this.¡±Ivy¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly at the mention of Be. ¡°You think she¡¯s behind all of this, don¡¯t you?¡± Rose hesitated for a moment before nodding.


    ¡°Yes, I do. Be¡¯s ambition knows no bounds. She¡¯s ying a dangerous game, and she¡¯s dragging all of us into it.¡±Ivy¡¯s fists clenched at her sides, a sh of anger crossing her face. ¡°She¡¯s ruined everything. My career, my family¡­ everything. I want to make her pay.¡±


    Rose¡¯s eyes gleamed with approval. There it was-the fire she had been waiting for. Ivy had been wallowing in self-pity for too long, but now, she was starting to see the truth. Be was a threat, and they needed to deal with her.


    ¡°We will,¡± Rose said, her voice low and deliberate. ¡°But we need to be smart about it. Be is ruthless, and she has more power than we anticipated. We can¡¯t let her see using.¡±Ivy wiped at her eyes, determination recing the sorrow that had been there moments before.


    ¡°What do we do?¡±Rose leaned in closer, her voice a whisper. ¡°We take control of the situation. Ryan¡¯s memory is fragile right now, and Be is using that to her advantage. But we can use it too. We can make Ryan believe whatever we want him to believe.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s brow furrowed in confusion. ¡°But how?¡± Rose smiled, her mind already working through the n. ¡°I¡¯ll handle Ryan. You focus on your career. We¡¯ll make sure Be¡¯s reign at thepany is short-lived. Trust me, Ivy, we¡¯re not losing this fight.¡±


    Ivy nodded slowly, a flicker of hope returning to her eyes. For the first time in days, she seemed like she had a purpose again. She stood up from the chair, taking a deep breath.¡±Okay,¡± she said, her voice stronger now.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do whatever it takes.¡±Rose watched as Ivy left the kitchen, her steps more confident than they had been before. A smile crept onto her lips. Things were finally starting to fall into ce.


    But there was still much to do, and the clock was ticking. Later that night, Mrs. Rose sat in front of her vanity, carefully applying the finishing touches to her makeup. Her heart raced with anticipation as she thought about seeing Dr. Parker again. Their n was dangerous, but it excited her in a way she hadn¡¯t felt in years.


    The thrill of the power they held in their hands was intoxicating. A knock on the door pulled her from her thoughts, and she quickly stood up, smoothing down her dress as she made her way to the door.


    Opening it, she was met with Dr. Parker¡¯s familiar figure, his eyes dark with desire as he stepped inside.


    Without a word, he pulled her into his arms, their lips meeting in another heated kiss. This time, there was no hesitation. They both knew what they were getting into, and they were all in.


    As they pulled apart, breathless, Dr. Parker smirked

 Chapter 115

    The road stretched out ahead of Mrs. Rose as she drove back to the mansion, the night sky pressing down on her like a weight. The kiss with Dr. Parker still lingered on her lips, but her mind was far from the present.


    As she navigated the winding roads, her thoughts drifted back to the past-the tangled web of lies, deceit, and passion that had led her to this very moment. It all seemed so long ago now, but the memories were as vivid as ever.


    Rose had been young and ambitious when she first met Parker. He wasn¡¯t a wealthy man then-just a medical student with big dreams and an even bigger heart. They had fallen for each other quickly, a whirlwind romance that consumed them both. Parker had been her everything back then.


    His kind eyes, his unwavering support, his dreams of bing a doctor-they had all made her believe that their love could conquer anything. But then Kendrick had entered the picture. Kendrick, the wealthy bachelor who had swept into her life like a storm.


    He hade to one of Parker¡¯s gatherings, a charity event for medical students, and Rose had been immediately struck by his confidence and charm. He was older, more experienced, and had an air of power about him that Parker, despite his many qualities, couldn¡¯t match.


    Kendrick had set his sights on her from the moment they met, and Rose could feel the tension between the two men growing by the second. It hadn¡¯t taken long for Kendrick to express his interest in her.


    He had invited her to dinner at the city¡¯s most exclusive restaurant, showered her with gifts, and made his intentions clear: he wanted Rose for himself. At first, she had resisted.


    After all, she was in love with Parker. But as the weeks went by, she couldn¡¯t ignore the allure of Kendrick¡¯s wealth and influence. He could offer her a life that Parker, despite his love and dedication, simply couldn¡¯t provide. Parker had noticed the change in her almost immediately.


    Thete-night phone calls with Kendrick, the expensive jewelry that began appearing on her wrist, the dinners she imed were ¡°with friends.¡±


    He had tried to confront her about it once, but Rose had brushed him off, insisting that Kendrick was just a friend-a business connection. But they both knew the truth. Parker could feel Rose slipping away, and there was nothing he could do to stop it


    . Then, one night, it all came to a head. Rose had been out with Kendrick, attending yet anothervish event, when she returned to the small apartment she and Parker had shared.


    Parker had been waiting for her, his eyes filled with a desperation she had never seen before.¡±Rose,¡± he had said, his voice trembling, ¡°you¡¯re falling for him, aren¡¯t you?¡±She had tried to deny it, but the look on his face had told her that he already knew.


    ¡°I don¡¯t love him,¡± Rose had insisted, stepping closer to him. ¡°I love you, Parker. But Kendrick¡­ he can offer us more. He can offer us a future.¡±Parker¡¯s expression had twisted into something she couldn¡¯t quite ce-hurt, betrayal, and something else she hadn¡¯t expected: anger.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need his money, Rose,¡± Parker had said, his voice rising. ¡°I need you. I love you. Don¡¯t you see what¡¯s happening? He¡¯s taking you away from me.¡±For a moment, Rose hesitated.


    She had truly loved Parker, but Kendrick¡¯s world was too enticing, too perfect. She couldn¡¯t ignore the security and wealth Kendrick offered. She had dreams of her own, and being with Parker-no matter how much she loved him-meant sacrificing those dreams.


    And so, in that moment of rity, Rose had made a decision. She couldn¡¯t choose between them, so she wouldn¡¯t.


    Instead, she would have both.¡±Parker,¡± she had whispered, reaching for his hand, ¡°what if we don¡¯t have to give up anything?¡±He had looked at her, confusion flickering in his eyes. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Kendrick¡­ he¡¯s madly in love with me,¡± Rose had said slowly, carefully. ¡°He¡¯ll do anything to be with me. What if we y this to our advantage? I¡¯ll continue seeing him, and you and I can keep things¡­ as they are.¡±Parker¡¯s brow had furrowed in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re saying¡­ what? That you¡¯ll date him and keep seeing me behind his back?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Rose had said, her heart racing as the n took shape in her mind. ¡°Kendrick is rich-richer than we could ever imagine. If we y this right, we could both benefit. He¡¯ll never have to know about us.¡±Parker had stared at her, his eyes dark with a mix of emotions.


    ¡°And what happens when he wants to marry you?¡±Rose had paused, biting her lip. ¡°If that happens¡­ we¡¯ll figure something out. But for now, let¡¯s take what we can get. With Kendrick¡¯s money and influence, you could go to the best medical school and open your practice.


    We could have everything we¡¯ve ever wanted.¡±For a long moment, Parker had been silent. Rose had feared that he would refuse, that he would walk out of her life for good. But then, slowly, he had nodded.¡±All right,¡± he had said, his voice tight.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°But you have to promise me, Rose¡­ promise me that when this is all over, you¡¯ll leave him. That we¡¯ll be together.¡±Rose had smiled, leaning in to kiss him softly. ¡°I promise.¡±And so, the affair had begun.


    Kendrick, oblivious to the web of lies being spun around him, had fallen deeper in love with Rose with each passing day.


    He had showered her with gifts, introduced her to his high-society friends, and, eventually, asked her to marry him.


    Rose had been hesitant at first, but Parker had urged her to ept.¡±This is what we¡¯ve been working for,¡± he had said. ¡°Marry him, and once we have what we need, we¡¯ll make our move.¡±But things hadn¡¯t gone ording to n.


    As Kendrick¡¯s proposal loomed, Parker had grown increasingly possessive, his jealousy and frustration bubbling to the surface. He had begged Rose not to go through with it, to run away with him instead.


    He had even suggested they elope, leaving Kendrick and his wealth behind. But Rose had been firm. ¡°We can¡¯t throw this all away now, Parker,¡± she had said. ¡°We¡¯re so close. Just a little longer, and we¡¯ll have everything.¡±Parker had been devastated when Kendrick had officially proposed.


    He had watched from the sidelines as the man who was supposed to be his best friend had ced a diamond ring on the woman Parker had loved for years.


    The betrayal had been unbearable, but Parker had stayed silent. After all, this was part of the n¡­ wasn¡¯t it? But when the wedding day had arrived, Parker had reached his breaking point.


    He had confronted Rose just days before the ceremony, his voice raw with desperation.¡±Don¡¯t do this, Rose,¡± he had pleaded. ¡°We can leave right now. We don¡¯t need his money.


    We don¡¯t need any of this.¡±But Rose had shaken her head, her eyes hard with determination. ¡°You don¡¯t understand, Parker. This is the only way. If I marry Kendrick, we¡¯ll have ess to everything. We¡¯ll be set for life.¡±


    ¡°And then what?¡± Parker had demanded. ¡°You¡¯re just going to kill him? You¡¯re going to murder the man who trusts you-who trusts both of us?¡±Rose had flinched at the word ¡°murder,¡± but she had quickly recovered. ¡°We don¡¯t have to kill him,¡± she had said. ¡°Not right away. We¡¯ll wait for the right time. When he least expects it, we¡¯ll make our move.¡±


    Parker had stared at her, horror etched across his face. ¡°I don¡¯t know if I can do this, Rose. I don¡¯t know if I can live like this.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have a choice,¡± Rose had said coldly. ¡°This is what we agreed on. If you want me-if you want us-you¡¯ll go through with it.¡±


    As Mrs. Rose drove up the long driveway to the mansion, she could feel the weight of those decisions bearing down on her. The years of deceit and maniption had brought her to where she was now-a ce of power, but also a ce of danger. Kendrick had never suspected a thing.


    He had married her with open arms, trusting her and Parkerpletely. He had given Parker everything he needed to seed, never once questioning their rtionship. With Kendrick¡¯s wealth and connections, Parker had gone on to attend the best medical school, eventually opening his hospital-the very hospital that was now one of the best in the country.


    But the guilt Parker had felt for years had slowly turned into something darker. His love for Rose had be an obsession, and the idea of her being with Kendrick-no matter how necessary it was for their n-had eaten away at him.


    Now, all these yearster, Parker had finally reached the breaking point. The jealousy and resentment he had harbored had turned into a desire for revenge, not just on Kendrick but on the entire world that had kept him from having Rose to himself.


    And Rose¡­ she was no longer the young woman who had been torn between two men. She had made her choice long ago, and now, there was no turning back. As she pulled into the driveway and parked the car, Rose took a deep breath, steeling herself for what was toe. The time for waiting was over. She and Parker were about to set their final n into motion.

 Chapter 116

    Rose¡¯s knuckles turned white as she gripped the steering wheel, her thoughts consumed by Be. How had everything fallen apart so quickly? Her careful ns with Parker, the years of deception, maniption, and power-all shattered by one person. Be.


    She couldn¡¯t believe that Kendrick¡¯s daughter would dare to interfere, and now she had ruined everything. But Be would pay. Rose would make sure of it.


    Meanwhile, Luca¡¯s mind was elsewhere, racing with concern for Ivy. Ever since her career had taken a nosedive, she had vanished from the public eye. She hadn¡¯t answered his calls, hadn¡¯t been seen in days, and Ryan¡¯s words had only made things worse.


    ¡°She¡¯s locked herself up in her room,¡± Ryan had told him. ¡°Won¡¯t talk to anyone.¡±Luca didn¡¯t hesitate. He had known Ivy for years, and though she often put up a tough front, he knew her better than most.


    Beneath that exterior was a woman who felt deeply-too deeply at times. Her career had meant the world to her, and now that it was in ruins, he knew she would be in unimaginable pain. The drive to the Kendrick mansion felt longer than usual.


    His worry for Ivy gnawed at him, and by the time he arrived, his nerves were on edge. He barely registered the mansion¡¯s grandeur as he rushed through the halls, making his way to her room.


    He knocked, softly at first. ¡°Ivy? It¡¯s Luca. Please, open the door.¡±There was no response.¡±Ivy, I¡¯m not leaving until you open up. I just want to talk,¡± he called out again, knocking louder this time.


    Still nothing. Luca leaned his forehead against the door, sighing deeply. ¡°Ivy, please. I know you¡¯re hurting. I just want to help.¡±After several agonizing minutes, he heard the faint sound of movement inside.


    The lock clicked, and the door creaked open, revealing Ivy¡¯s disheveled figure. The sight of her took his breath away. Ivy-so usuallyposed, so full of life-looked like a mere shadow of herself.


    Her eyes were red and swollen from days of crying, her hair in disarray. She wore a loose robe that seemed to hang off her as though it were too heavy for her frail frame.¡±Ivy¡­¡± Luca whispered, stepping inside and closing the door behind him.


    She tried to hold it together, but the moment she saw the concern in Luca¡¯s eyes, her fragile facade crumbled. Ivy broke down, her sobs wracking her entire body. Luca didn¡¯t hesitate.


    He crossed the room in a heartbeat, pulling her into his arms. She clung to him as though he were her lifeline, burying her face in his chest.¡±I¡­ I¡¯ve ruined everything,¡± Ivy sobbed, her voice barely a whisper.


    ¡°It¡¯s all gone.¡±Luca held her tighter, his hand gently stroking her hair as he whispered soothing words. ¡°It¡¯s going to be okay. I¡¯m here now. I won¡¯t let you go through this alone.¡±


    ¡°How?¡± Ivy pulled back slightly, her tear-streaked face full of despair. ¡°Everything I worked for¡­ it¡¯s all gone. My career, my reputation¡­ ruined.¡±Luca cupped her face, wiping away her tears with his thumb.


    ¡°I know it feels like that right now, but you¡¯re stronger than this. We¡¯ll figure it out, I promise. Just trust me.¡±Ivy shook her head, fresh tears spilling over. ¡°There¡¯s nothing left to fix, Luca. I¡¯ve lost everything.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Luca said firmly. ¡°You haven¡¯t lost me.¡±For a moment, they simply stared at each other, the weight of Luca¡¯s words hanging in the air. Ivy blinked, her eyes searching his face as if trying to understand what he was saying.


    Luca¡¯s heart pounded in his chest, but he knew it was time to say what had been on his mind for so long. ¡°Ivy¡­ I¡¯m not just here because I¡¯m your friend. I¡¯m here because I care about you-more than you know. I love you, Ivy.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s breath caught in her throat. She had always been surrounded by people, but no one had ever truly said those words to her with such sincerity. She had always brushed off feelings and kept herself guarded.


    But hearing Luca say it-seeing the raw emotion in his eyes-moved her in a way she hadn¡¯t expected. Through her exhaustion, she managed a small, tearful smile. ¡°I love you too.¡±It was a whisper, but it was all Luca needed to hear.


    He kissed her forehead gently, lingering there as he held her close. For the first time in days, Ivy felt a sense of peace wash over her, her body rxing in his arms.¡±I¡¯ll help you,¡± Luca whispered, as he helped her to her feet.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get you cleaned up, alright? You¡¯ll feel better after a shower.¡±Ivy nodded weakly, allowing Luca to guide her to the bathroom. She was so drained, both emotionally and physically, that she could barely stand on her own.


    Luca stayed by her side, his gentle presence giving her the strength she needed to keep going.


    Once she was in the shower, Luca stepped out, giving her some privacy while he prepared clean clothes for her. He could hear the water running and hoped that the warmth would help soothe her.


    When Ivy finally emerged from the bathroom, dressed in a fresh robe, she still looked fragile but cleaner, more like herself. Luca smiled softly as he approached her, holding out a towel to dry her hair.¡±You look better,¡± he said, his voice light, trying to ease the tension.¡±I still feel like a wreck,¡± Ivy replied, her voice hoarse from crying.


    ¡°You¡¯re not a wreck,¡± Luca insisted. ¡°You¡¯re just¡­ going through a rough time. We¡¯ll get through this together.¡±He helped her sit down, and without a second thought, Luca called for the mansion¡¯s help to prepare something for her to eat.


    Ivy was too weak to argue, so she let him take care of her, watching as he busied himself with simple tasks. Something was calming about his presence-about the way he quietly ensured everything was in order, making her feel like, for once, she didn¡¯t have to do everything alone.


    A short whileter, the help brought in a tray of food. Luca set it down in front of Ivy and, with surprising tenderness, began feeding her. She smiled weakly at the gesture, too tired to protest.


    ¡°Why are you doing all this?¡± Ivy asked, her voice small and uncertain. Luca paused, his eyes meeting hers with intensity. ¡°Because I care about you. And I¡¯m not going to let you fall apart.¡±


    There was a moment of silence, and then Ivy spoke again, her voice barely above a whisper. ¡°But why¡­ do you care so much?¡±Luca hesitated for a moment, his heart pounding in his chest. He had told her the truth earlier, but this felt different-more real, more vulnerable.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    ¡°Because I love you, Ivy,¡± he said again, his voice firm. ¡°I¡¯ve loved you for a long time.¡±Ivy stared at him, her eyes wide with surprise.


    ¡°You¡­ love me?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Luca said, his heart in his throat. ¡°I¡¯ve been in love with you for years.¡±Ivy¡¯s eyes filled with tears again, but this time they weren¡¯t tears of sadness. She reached out, taking Luca¡¯s hand in hers.¡±I love you too,¡± she whispered, her voice soft but sure.


    ¡°I¡¯ve just¡­ never known how to say it.¡±Luca smiled, his heart swelling with emotion. He leaned in, brushing a gentle kiss against her forehead before pulling her into his arms once more.


    They stayed like that for a while, wrapped in each other¡¯s warmth, both finding sce in the unspoken connection between them.


    Eventually, Ivy¡¯s exhaustion took over, and she began to drift off to sleep in Luca¡¯s arms. He carefully tucked her into bed, watching her for a moment as shey there, peaceful atst.


    As he stood to leave, Ivy stirred, her eyes fluttering open briefly. ¡°Don¡¯t leave,¡± she murmured, her voice heavy with sleep.


    ¡°I won¡¯t,¡± Luca promised, leaning down to kiss her forehead again. ¡°I¡¯ll always be here for you.¡±Ivy smiled softly, her eyes closing as she drifted back into sleep. Luca watched her for a few more moments, his heart full as he quietly left the room, closing the door behind him.


    But as he stepped into the hallway, his phone buzzed in his pocket. It was a message from Ryan.¡±We need to talk. Something¡¯s happened with Be.¡±Luca frowned, a sense of unease settling over him.


    Whatever it was, he had a feeling it wasn¡¯t good. With onest nce at Ivy¡¯s door, Luca made his way downstairs, his mind racing with thoughts of what could be happening now. And as he stepped out into the night, the weight of the unknown pressed heavily on his shoulders.


    Inside the mansion, Ivy slept soundly, unaware of the storm brewing outside her door-a storm that threatened to tear apart everything she and Luca had just begun to build.

 Chapter 117

    Luca, on his way out, dialed Ryan¡¯s number. As soon as Ryan picked up, Luca informed him, ¡°I just left the house. Ivy¡¯s okay now. I talked to her, and she¡¯s had something to eat.¡± Ryan, surprised, let out a sigh of relief.


    ¡°How did you manage that, man? She¡¯s been locked up in there for days, refusing to talk to anyone. I tried reaching out, but she wouldn¡¯t even answer the door.¡±This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    ¡°Well,¡± Luca chuckled, ¡°let¡¯s just say I¡¯ve got some magic touch.¡± Ryanughed. ¡°Man, if that¡¯s magic, then I need to learn some of it. Anyway, thanks a lot. I owe you one.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it,¡± Luca replied. ¡°I¡¯ll catch youter. I¡¯m heading home now.¡± ¡°Alright, take care, man,¡± Ryan said as he hung up. Luca put his phone back in his pocket and took a deep breath as he walked toward his car, feeling a strange sense of relief and concern all at once.


    Meanwhile, back at Ryan¡¯s ce, Be appeared from behind him as he was about to leave the room. ¡°You seem to be bonding quite well with Lucately,¡± she said with a subtle smirk. Ryan turned around, surprised.


    ¡°Oh, Be, I didn¡¯t hear youing.¡± Be raised an eyebrow. ¡°Yeah, Luca told me that we were best friends, but I can¡¯t remember much of him. Ryan said. ¡°He¡¯s cool, you know?¡± Be¡¯s smile faded a little, and she tilted her head.


    ¡°Well, let¡¯s just say Luca might not be as ¡®cool¡¯ as you think,¡± she said, emphasizing the word ¡®cool¡¯ with an air of skepticism. Ryan frowned. ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡± Be waved her hand dismissively. ¡°I¡¯m just looking out for you, honey. But I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Ryan shrugged, brushing off her concern. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll be alright.¡± Be smiled again and walked towards the door. ¡°I¡¯m heading out for a bit. I¡¯ll be back soon, okay?¡± Ryan nodded absentmindedly.


    ¡°Sure. Take care.¡± Before Be left, she leaned in and kissed Ryan gently on the head. ¡°See youter, honey.¡± After she left, Ryan stood there for a moment, then noticed something on the bed-Be¡¯s phone.


    ¡°Honey, you forgot your phone!¡± he called out, but there was no answer. His curiosity got the better of him. He picked up the phone and hesitated for a moment before unlocking it. Ryan wasn¡¯t usually the type to invade someone¡¯s privacy, but something about Be had been offtely, and his instincts were screaming at him.


    He scrolled through her call logs and saw several numbers that weren¡¯t saved in her contacts. Frowning, he navigated to her inbox and started reading her messages. The first one made his blood run cold.


    Message 1: ¡°I have information the blogs would love. Ivy¡¯s designs aren¡¯t hers; she stole them.¡±Ryan¡¯s heart pounded in his chest as he moved to the next text.


    Message 2: ¡°Ma, thedy is almost due for delivery. Just thought to remind you.¡± Reply: ¡°Is she in her 9th month?¡±


    Sender: ¡°She¡¯s in her 8th month.¡± Reply: ¡°Keep a close watch on her. Let me know of anytest developments.¡± Ryan¡¯s hands shook as he stared at the screen. Who was this woman? And why was Be keeping tabs on her? Before he could read further, he heard Be¡¯s voice calling from downstairs.


    ¡°Ryan? Where are you?¡± Panic surged through him. He quickly tossed her phone back onto the bed and dashed into the bathroom, turning on the shower to cover his tracks.


    ¡°I¡¯m in the shower!¡± he yelled, hoping his voice sounded natural. ¡°Oh, okay. I just came back for my phone,¡± Be called out from the doorway. Ryan¡¯s heart raced as he watched the door through the steam from the running shower.


    ¡°Have you found it?¡± he asked, trying to keep his tone casual. ¡°Yeah, it was on the bed,¡± she replied. ¡°See youter, honey.¡±He heard her footsteps retreat, followed by the sound of the front door closing.


    Ryan stood there, drenched in sweat, despite the cool water from the shower. His mind raced with a thousand different thoughts. What was Be up to? And who was the pregnant woman? After waiting a few minutes to make sure Be was gone, Ryan turned off the shower and stepped out.


    He grabbed a towel and wrapped it around his waist, his heart still pounding in his chest. He needed answers, but rushing would get him nowhere.


    As the sound of Be¡¯s car faded from the driveway, he grabbed a towel and stared at himself in the mirror. What was Be up to? His mind was flooded with possibilities. Was Be plotting against Ivy? Why would she target her? And more importantly, who was this pregnant woman? Ryan wiped his face and decided he needed a strategy.


    But first, he had to act normal around Be. He couldn¡¯t raise any suspicions. He couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that Be was hiding something-something big. Ryan sat on the edge of the bed, trying to process what he had just seen.


    Ivy¡¯s designs stolen? Is a mysterious pregnant woman being watched? Nothing made sense. And why would Be be involved in something so underhanded? He needed answers, but confronting Be wasn¡¯t an option-not yet.


    He needed more information first, something concrete that he could use against her if it came to that. Ryan picked up his phone and dialed Luca¡¯s number again. ¡°Yo, Luca, you still free?¡± ¡°Yeah, what¡¯s up?¡± Luca answered.¡±I need your help with something,¡± Ryan said, his voice tense.


    ¡± Everything alright, man?¡± Luca asked, sensing the urgency. Ryan hesitated. ¡°Not really. I think Be¡¯s hiding something from me. I just found some¡­ weird stuff on her phone. Can you meet up?¡± Luca was silent for a moment before he replied, ¡°Yeah, sure. Where do you want to meet?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m home. Come over.¡± ¡°Got it. I¡¯ll see you there.¡± Ryan hung up the phone and took a deep breath. He couldn¡¯t believe what he was about to do. Be, the woman he thought he knew, was turning out to be aplete mystery.


    Thirty minutester, Ryan sat in his library room, nervously tapping his fingers on the table. Luca walked in, making his way to the library. ¡°What¡¯s going on, man?¡± Luca asked as he sat down. Ryan nced around to make sure no one was listening before leaning in.


    ¡°I think Be¡¯s up to something. I found these messages on her phone.¡±He exined what he had read, about the texts involving Ivy¡¯s designs and the mysterious pregnant woman. Luca¡¯s eyes widened.


    ¡°Man, that sounds bad. You sure about this?¡±Ryan nodded grimly. ¡°I saw it with my own eyes. I don¡¯t know what to make of it, but something¡¯s off.¡±Luca leaned back in his chair, processing everything. ¡°If Be¡¯s behind this, then we need to figure out what her endgame is. You think she¡¯s trying to sabotage Ivy?¡±


    Ryan shrugged, frustrated. ¡°I don¡¯t know. She could be. But who¡¯s this pregnant woman? And why is Be so concerned with her?¡± Luca frowned. ¡°That part doesn¡¯t add up. It could be anyone. Do you think it¡¯s someone connected to you or your family?¡± ¡°I have no idea,¡±


    Ryan muttered, rubbing his temples. ¡°That¡¯s the problem. I don¡¯t know where to start.¡± ¡°Well, first things first,¡± Luca said.


    ¡°You need to be careful. Don¡¯t let Be know you¡¯re onto her. If she¡¯s involved in something shady, we don¡¯t want to tip her off too soon.¡±


    Ryan nodded. ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right. I¡¯ll y it cool for now.¡±Luca leaned forward. ¡°Let¡¯s do some digging on our own. I¡¯ve got a couple of contacts who might be able to help us find out more about Be¡¯s connections. We can figure this out.¡±


    Ryan looked at Luca, grateful for his support. ¡°Thanks, man. I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do without you.¡± Luca smiled. ¡°Hey, that¡¯s what friends are for. We¡¯ll get to the bottom of this, I promise.¡± ¡°Alright, man. I¡¯ve got your back. But be careful. Be¡¯s not one to mess with lightly. You know she¡¯s got ws.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I know,¡± Ryan muttered. ¡°Just¡­ keep your eyes open, okay? I¡¯ll figure out what¡¯s going on.¡± Later that evening, Be returned home, a faint smile on her face as she walked through the door.


    Ryan watched her carefully, forcing a smile to hide his suspicion. ¡°Hey, honey,¡± Be greeted him, wrapping her arms around his waist. ¡°How was your day?¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Ryan lied, holding her close but feeling nothing but the distance between them. ¡°How about yours?¡±Be pulled back, her eyes sparkling with excitement.


    ¡°Amazing! I got some news today¡­ about the Kendrick empire. Some new developments.¡±Ryan¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He knew exactly what she was talking about, but he yed dumb. ¡°Oh? What kind of developments?¡±


    Be gave him a sly smile. ¡°You¡¯ll find out soon enough. Just¡­ be patient.¡± She kissed him on the cheek and moved past him, heading upstairs. Ryan¡¯s mind was in overdrive. Be was nning something big, and whatever it was, it involved the Kendrick family.


    He had to act fast before things spiraled out of control. That night, Ryan couldn¡¯t sleep. His mind kept circling back to the messages he had found. He had no doubt now that Be was up to something serious. But the question remained: how far would she go?

 Chapter 118

    The next morning, Ryan woke up with a n. He would pay a visit to Ivy. If Be was involved in something against her, he needed to warn his sister. After getting dressed and making sure Be had left the house for her usual errands, Ryan slipped out and drove straight to the mansion. When he arrived, Luca was already there, sitting in the living room.


    ¡°Morning,¡± Luca greeted him, but his face was clouded with concern. ¡°Ivy¡¯s still sleeping. She hasn¡¯t been doing great. Whatever happened with her designs shook her up.¡± Ryan nodded, his jaw clenched.


    ¡°We need to talk to her. There¡¯s something I need to warn her about. Luca raised an eyebrow. Be¡¯s been covering her tracks well, but if we can get to the bottom of this, we can stop her.¡±


    Just as they were discussing their next move, Ivy walked into the room. She looked better than thest time Luca had seen her, but her face was still pale, her eyes distant.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± she asked softly, looking between the two men. Ryan stood up, hesitating for a moment. ¡°Ivy, there¡¯s something I need to tell you,¡± he started. ¡°I¡¯ve been looking into what happened with your designs¡­ and I think Be might be involved.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°Be? What are you talking about? Why would she do that?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure yet,¡± Ryan admitted. ¡°But I found some suspicious messages on her phone. Someone¡¯s been feeding her information, and it¡¯s not good. She¡¯s¡­ keeping secrets, Ivy. There¡¯s more going on than we thought.¡±


    Ivy sank into a nearby chair, her expression a mix of disbelief and anger. ¡°Why would she do this? I¡¯ve never even had any issues with her. Why would she target me?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Ryan said, sitting down beside her. ¡°But we¡¯ll figure it out. You need to be careful around her. Don¡¯t let her know we¡¯re onto her.¡±


    Luca chimed in, ¡°We¡¯ll keep an eye on her. If she¡¯s involved in anything shady, we¡¯ll expose it.¡± Ivy nodded, though her mind was racing. Be? The woman she had always looked up to and admired was now at the center of her career¡¯s destruction. She felt betrayed, but also confused.


    There had to be more to this story The next day, As soon as Ryan heard Be¡¯s car pull out of the driveway, he wasted no time dialing Luca. ¡°Luca, you need to get here. Now.


    ¡°Within minutes, Luca arrived at the house, his expression serious. Ryan led him into the study room, locking the door behind them.


    He didn¡¯t want anyone overhearing this conversation. They needed privacy to figure out their next move.¡±Alright, spill it,¡± Luca said, crossing his arms.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    ¡°What did you find out?¡±Ryan leaned against the desk, arms crossed, and started recounting what he had discovered on Be¡¯s phone. He exined the first message about Ivy¡¯s designs being stolen.


    But what gnawed at him was the second message-the one about the pregnant woman.¡±She¡¯s keeping tabs on someone,¡± Ryan said, pacing the room. ¡°Someone pregnant, and almost due. They¡¯re watching her, Luca. Who the hell is this woman? Why is Be involved?¡±


    Luca rubbed his chin, looking troubled. ¡°Whoever she is, she¡¯s in danger. Be¡¯s not one to y around with. We need to figure out who this woman is, and fast.¡±Ryan nodded.


    ¡°The problem is, I didn¡¯t get the number from the message before Be came back to grab her phone. I was lucky to even see it in the first ce.¡±Luca let out a sigh.


    ¡°That¡¯s a problem, man. We need that number if we¡¯re going to figure out what Be¡¯s up to. Without it, we¡¯re shooting in the dark.¡± Ryan mmed his fist on the desk in frustration. ¡°I know, I know. But how the hell am I supposed to get her phone again? She¡¯s always with it.¡± Luca shook his head.


    ¡°We need to think of something, Ryan. We don¡¯t have much time. Whoever this woman is, she could be in real danger.¡± Ryan was silent for a moment, thinking. ¡°I¡¯ll figure something out. But right now, we need to stay focused. Be¡¯s dangerous, and I¡¯m starting to believe she¡¯s behind everything that¡¯s happening. Ivy¡¯s scandal, Iris disappearing, all of it.¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t heard anything from the people I sent to look for Iris either,¡± Ryan continued, his voice lowering as the weight of it all pressed on him.


    ¡°But I believe she¡¯s still alive. She has to be.¡±Luca ced a reassuring hand on Ryan¡¯s shoulder. ¡°We¡¯ll find her. Just stay strong, alright? We¡¯ll get through this.¡± Ryan nodded, but the frustration in his eyes didn¡¯t fade. ¡°How¡¯s Ivy doing?¡± he asked, changing the subject.


    Luca shrugged. ¡°She¡¯s better than before, but still shaken. What Be did hit her hard.¡±Ryan gritted his teeth. ¡°I swear, she¡¯s going to pay. I won¡¯t let her destroy my sister.¡± Luca leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful. ¡°Have you seen your dadtely?¡±Ryan¡¯s face darkened at the mention of his father.


    ¡°No. I don¡¯t want to see him or his wife. They¡¯re the reason we¡¯re in this mess in the first ce.¡±He clenched his fists. ¡°The only people I care about right now are Ivy and Iris.


    Everyone else can burn for all I care.¡±Luca raised his hands in a calming gesture. ¡°I get it, man. You¡¯re angry. But we need to take things slow. We can¡¯t afford to make mistakes right now. We need evidence-hard proof before we make any moves.¡±


    Ryan slumped into a chair, running a hand through his hair. ¡°I know. I just want to blow this whole thing wide open. Expose all of them for what they¡¯ve done.¡±


    ¡°We will,¡± Luca assured him. ¡°But we have to y it smart. If we move too fast, we could put Jessica in danger too. We can¡¯t let anything happen to her.¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes flickered with worry. ¡°You¡¯re right. We need to find Iris first. And then we¡¯ll deal with Be.¡±They sat in silence for a few moments, the weight of the situation pressing down on both of them.¡±I¡¯ve been thinking,¡± Luca said suddenly.


    ¡°We need to find a way to get Be¡¯s phone again. Maybe you could distract her somehow, give me a chance to grab it and get the number.¡±Ryan frowned. ¡°I don¡¯t know, man. She¡¯s been extra cautioustely. If she realizes I¡¯m up to something, we¡¯ll lose our chance.¡± ¡°Then we have to be smart about it,¡± Luca insisted. ¡°We¡¯ll think of a way.¡±Ryan nodded, though his mind was still racing.


    ¡°I¡¯lle up with something. But right now, we need to focus on finding Iris. Once we have her, we¡¯ll have the leverage we need.¡±Luca agreed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep looking. We¡¯re close-I can feel it.¡±Ryan stood, determination hardening his features. ¡°We¡¯re going to bring Be down. And when we do, she¡¯ll regret ever messing with us.¡±


    The next morning, Ryan woke up with a renewed sense of purpose. He spent the day carefully monitoring Be, watching for any opportunity to get his hands on her phone again.


    But as the day went on, Be didn¡¯t let the device out of her sight, keeping it either in her hand or close by. By the afternoon, Ryan was growing frustrated. He couldn¡¯t afford to wait much longer.


    The pregnant woman Be was keeping tabs on could be in danger, and time was running out. Later that evening, as Be prepared to head out for another mysterious errand, Ryan saw his chance.¡±Hey, honey,¡± he called out from the living room.


    ¡°Before you go, could you help me with something upstairs? I¡¯m having trouble with the inte.¡±Be nced at her phone, hesitating for a moment. ¡°Sure. Let me just grab my bag.¡±As she turned her back, Ryan quickly texted Luca. ¡°Now¡¯s your chance.


    Be ready.¡±When Be came back, Ryan led her upstairs to the office, making a show of trying to get the inte to work. As Be bent over theputer, Luca slipped in quietly from the front door, moving swiftly toward the table where Be had set her phone.


    He grabbed it quickly, taking a picture of the screen with his phone before setting it back down exactly as he had found it.


    Just as he was about to leave, Be straightened up, turning to Ryan. ¡°Well, it looks like the inte¡¯s working fine now. I guess it was just a glitch.¡±Ryan smiled, ying it cool. ¡°Thanks for the help, babe.¡±As Be left the room and headed downstairs, Luca slipped out unnoticed.


    Once outside, he called Ryan.¡±I got it. I¡¯ve got the number.¡± Ryan let out a breath of relief. ¡°Good. Now we can find out who Be¡¯s been talking to.¡±Luca hung up, quickly running the number through a database he had ess to.

 Chapter 119

    Luca and Ryan exchanged tense nces after the call ended abruptly. The voice on the other end of the line had answered with a simple ¡°Hello,¡± but they had said nothing, too unsure of how to proceed without a n.


    Now the silence felt heavier as the realization settled: they needed to act fast if they were going to get to the bottom of this.¡±We can¡¯t let this slip,¡± Ryan said, breaking the silence. ¡°Whoever that was, he¡¯s involved. We need to get him talking.¡±Luca nodded.


    ¡°But we can¡¯t just call him back without a n. He¡¯ll get suspicious. And we need to stay on the call long enough to trace it.¡±Ryan exhaled, running a hand through his hair.


    ¡°So, what do we do? It¡¯s not like we can just ask him who he is. We need leverage.¡±Luca thought for a moment, pacing the room. ¡°We need to make him think he¡¯s talking to someone he knows. We¡¯ll use what we¡¯ve learned from Be¡¯s texts, drop hints, and see if he bites.¡±Ryan frowned, still unconvinced. ¡°And if he doesn¡¯t? We¡¯ll blow our only shot.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it,¡± Luca said. ¡°We just need a distraction, something to keep him on the line.¡±Ryan nodded. ¡°Do it. But be careful.¡±Luca prepared to call the number back when Ryan¡¯s phone buzzed, interrupting the tense moment. He nced down and saw Ivy¡¯s name on the screen. She had been distanttely, and he hadn¡¯t seen her much since Be¡¯s scheming came to light.¡±Ivy,¡± Ryan muttered. ¡°What does she want?¡±Luca nced over. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°Ivy¡¯s calling. She¡¯s been avoiding everyone since her designs were stolen. She probably wants to talk.¡±Luca raised an eyebrow. ¡°That¡¯s good. Maybe she knows something useful.¡±Ryan tapped the phone.


    ¡°Hey, Ivy. Everything alright?¡±Her voice came through soft, almost hesitant. ¡°Ryan, can I talk to youter? I¡¯m actually on my way to see Luca now. I need someone to talk to, and he¡¯s been¡­ good to metely.¡±Ryan was taken aback for a second. ¡°You¡¯re heading to Luca¡¯s? You two have been hanging out a lot, haven¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, he¡¯s been a good friend,¡± Ivy replied, a little more assured now. ¡°It¡¯s been hard, you know? With everything falling apart.¡±Ryan softened. He understood Ivy¡¯s frustration, and part of him felt guilty for being so wrapped up in his problems. ¡°I get it. Talk to Luca. Just stay safe, alright?¡±


    ¡°I will.¡± Ivy hung up, leaving Ryan staring at the phone for a moment longer.¡±You¡¯ve gotpanying,¡± Ryan said, ncing at Luca. ¡°Ivy¡¯s on her way.¡±Luca nodded, his expression serious. ¡°Good. Maybe she¡¯ll give us some insight into Be¡¯s moves. She¡¯s been hurt the most by all of this.¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Ryan agreed, ¡°but I don¡¯t want Ivy getting too close to this. Be¡¯s ruthless, and she¡¯ll go after anyone who gets in her way.¡±Luca¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°I¡¯ll keep her safe, Ryan. Trust me.¡±A few minutester, Ivy pulled up to Luca¡¯s house. She sat in her car for a moment, staring at the front door.


    Her mind was racing with all the things she wanted to say, but part of her didn¡¯t even know where to start. Be had taken everything from her-her designs, her career, her future-and her family was crumbling under the weight of it all. She got out of the car and made her way to the front door, knocking softly. Luca opened it, his face serious but warm. He motioned for her toe inside.


    ¡°You okay?¡± he asked as she stepped in. Ivy shook her head. ¡°No. Not really.¡±They went to sit in the living room, the weight of her exhaustion evident in every step she took. Luca could see the strain in her eyes, the way her shoulders sagged as though the burden she carried was too much to bear.¡±I¡¯m sorry for barging in like this,¡± Ivy said softly, avoiding his gaze.


    ¡°I just¡­ I don¡¯t know who else to talk to. Everything¡¯s falling apart, and I don¡¯t know where to begin.¡±Luca leaned forward, his eyes focused on her. ¡°You don¡¯t need to apologize. I¡¯m here for you, Ivy. Talk to me. What¡¯s going on?¡±Ivy took a deep breath, struggling to keep her emotions in check.


    ¡°It¡¯s Be. She¡¯s behind all of this-I just know it. She stole my designs, ruined my career, and now¡­ now she¡¯s tearing my family apart. I can¡¯t even look at my mother anymore. She let Be into our lives, and now everything¡¯s a mess.¡±Luca nodded, his expression serious. ¡°I know. We¡¯re starting to put the pieces together.


    Be¡¯s got her hands in a lot of things, and it¡¯s worse than we thought.¡±Ivy nced up, her eyes filled with anger and frustration. ¡°Why did we let her get this far? Why didn¡¯t anyone see iting?¡±Luca frowned.


    ¡°People like Be are good at hiding their true intentions. She knew exactly how to manipte everyone around her. But we¡¯re onto her now, Ivy. We¡¯re going to stop her.¡±Ivy¡¯s hands clenched into fists.


    ¡°I want to help. I want to bring her down for what she¡¯s done.¡±Luca hesitated. ¡°This isn¡¯t going to be easy, Ivy. Be¡¯s dangerous. She¡¯s already hurt so many people, and she won¡¯t stop until she¡¯s got everything she wants.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care,¡± Ivy said, her voice trembling with resolve. ¡°She¡¯s taken everything from me, Luca. I can¡¯t just sit back and do nothing.¡±Luca leaned back, studying her carefully. ¡°Alright. But if you¡¯re serious about this, you need to know what you¡¯re getting into. Be won¡¯t hesitate toe after you if she thinks you¡¯re a threat.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not scared of her,¡± Ivy replied, her voice steady. ¡°I¡¯m done being afraid. I¡¯m done letting her walk all over us.¡±Luca nodded. ¡°Okay. But we have to be smart about this. If we¡¯re going to take her down, we need evidence. We need proof that she¡¯s behind everything.¡±Ivy took a deep breath.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s find it.¡±As they sat together in the living room, Ivy began to open up about everything that had been weighing on her. She talked about her frustration with her mother and how guilty she felt for letting Be get so close. She admitted to Luca how lost she felt, how her career seemed ruined, and how she didn¡¯t even know where to start picking up the pieces.¡±


    I thought I had it all figured out,¡± Ivy said, shaking her head. ¡°I worked so hard on my designs, and then Be just¡­ destroyed everything.¡±Luca¡¯s eyes softened.


    ¡°Ivy, you¡¯re talented. Be can¡¯t take that away from you. This is just a setback.¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t feel like just a setback,¡± Ivy muttered. ¡°It feels like the end.¡±Luca ced a hand on her shoulder, his voice low andforting. ¡°It¡¯s not the end. You¡¯ll bounce back from this. And when we bring Be down, you¡¯ll get everything you deserve.¡±Ivy looked up at him, her eyes full of gratitude.


    ¡°Thanks, Luca. I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do without you.¡±Luca smiled softly, but before he could respond, his phone buzzed on the table. He nced at the screen and his expression immediately grew serious.¡±It¡¯s time,¡± Luca said, picking up the phone. ¡°I¡¯m calling the number back. We need to know who this man is.¡±Ivy looked concerned.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Who are you calling?¡±Luca quickly exined the situation with Be¡¯s phone and the mysterious man they had tried to contact earlier. Ivy¡¯s eyes widened as she listened.¡±So, you think this man is involved with Be?¡± Ivy asked.¡±Yes,¡± Luca said, nodding.


    ¡°We need to keep him on the line long enough to trace the call.¡±Ivy¡¯s expression turned determined. ¡°Then let¡¯s do it.¡±Luca dialed the number again, putting the phone on speaker. The line rang once, twice, and then a gruff voice answered.¡±Hello?¡±Luca kept his voice steady. ¡°We need to talk.¡±The voice on the other end hesitated. ¡°Who is this?¡±


    ¡°Does it matter?¡± Luca replied, ncing at Ryan, who had just entered the room and was listening intently. ¡°We know what you¡¯re doing with Be. We know about the pregnant woman. And we know you¡¯ve been watching her.¡±There was a long pause on the other end of the line before the man spoke again, his voice tense. ¡°You don¡¯t know anything.¡±This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    ¡°We know enough,¡± Luca said calmly, trying to keep the man talking. ¡°And if you don¡¯t want everything toe crashing down, you¡¯ll listen to us.¡±The man let out a harshugh. ¡°You¡¯re bluffing. You don¡¯t know a damn thing.¡±


    ¡°We know Jessica¡¯s still alive,¡± Ryan cut in, stepping closer to the phone. ¡°And we know Be¡¯s involved. So, why don¡¯t you tell us who you are and what you¡¯re really after?¡±


    The silence on the other end of the line stretched on, and for a moment, Luca thought the man might hang up. But then he spoke, his voice low and dangerous.¡±You don¡¯t know who you¡¯re messing with

 Chapter 120

    Mrs. Rosey against the silk sheets, her body still tingling from the heated moment she¡¯d just shared with Dr. Parker. Their encounters had always been passionate, but tonight, there was something more.


    It wasn¡¯t just lust or the thrill of secrecy-it was the shared weight of their plotting, the knowledge that every step they took brought them closer to what they both wanted.


    Dr. Parker lit a cigarette, exhaling slowly as he leaned against the bedpost, his eyes tracing Rose¡¯s silhouette in the dim light. She turned to face him, her expression troubled, despite their recent intimacy.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on, Parker. Ryan hasn¡¯t returned any of my calls, and Ivy¡­ well, she¡¯s been distant too, barely even acknowledges me when we¡¯re in the same house,¡± Rose began, her voice tinged with frustration.


    Parker raised an eyebrow as he inhaled from the cigarette, blowing out a steady stream of smoke. ¡°Rx, Rose,¡± he said coolly.


    ¡°The kids have a lot going on right now. Ryan¡¯s struggling with his memory after the ident, and Ivy¡¯s been caught up in that career scandal-it¡¯s all over the media. They¡¯re preupied.¡±


    Rose frowned, her perfectly manicured nails tapping impatiently against the nightstand. ¡°I know they¡¯re busy, but they need me now more than ever.


    And yet, they¡¯re avoiding me like I¡¯m some kind of stranger. I feel like something¡¯s not right. I just¡­ can¡¯t ce it.¡±Parker stubbed out his cigarette and leaned closer to her, his hand caressing her arm.


    ¡°You¡¯re overthinking it, Rose. Ryan¡¯s still trying to recover, and Ivy¡­ well, she¡¯s probably embarrassed. Her name¡¯s been dragged through the mud because of that scandal. Don¡¯t take it personally.


    ¡°Rose shook her head, her eyes narrowing. ¡°No, Parker, it¡¯s more than that. I¡¯ve always been able to control them, but now? They¡¯re slipping away from me. It¡¯s like they don¡¯t need me anymore, and I don¡¯t like it.¡±Parker let out a soft chuckle, leaning down to kiss her bare shoulder.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s practically a walking corpse now, thanks to the substance I¡¯ve been giving him. He¡¯s too weak to resist. He¡¯s ready to break, and once he does, you¡¯ll haveplete control over him again. Trust me.¡±Rose smirked, but her expression quickly soured.


    ¡°What about Be? She¡¯s bing a bigger problem than I expected. I thought after the miscarriage, she¡¯d back down, but now she¡¯s got her ws deeper into the Kendrick Empire. She¡¯s dangerous, Parker. We need to deal with her.¡±


    Parker¡¯s eyes darkened at the mention of Be¡¯s name. ¡°I have someone working on that. Be won¡¯t be a problem for much longer. We¡¯ll get her out of the way, permanently.¡±Rose sat up, her gaze sharp.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    ¡°And who¡¯s this someone? Why haven¡¯t we heard anything yet?¡±Parker leaned back, his tone casual but firm. ¡°It¡¯s in progress. You need to be patient. Taking down Be isn¡¯t something that can happen overnight. She¡¯s smart and cunning. But soon¡­ very soon, we¡¯ll get rid of her.¡±Rose¡¯s expression softened slightly, but there was still an edge of impatience in her voice.


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait much longer, Parker. She¡¯s gaining more power every day, and if we don¡¯t stop her soon, she¡¯ll be untouchable.¡±


    Parker ced a reassuring hand on her shoulder. ¡°I¡¯ve got it under control, Rose. Be may think she¡¯s invincible, but she¡¯s not. We just need to y this smart. Trust me.¡±


    Rose sighed, but the tension in her body didn¡¯t fully ease. ¡°Alright. But I want updates. No more waiting in the dark.¡±Parker nodded, understanding her urgency.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be the first to know when it¡¯s done.¡±Rosey back down, pulling the sheets up to her chest, her mind racing.


    The power she had once held so firmly in her grasp was slipping through her fingers, and she hated the feeling. But she wasn¡¯t about to let everything fall apart.


    Not when she was so close to getting what she wanted. Later that evening, after Parker had left for the night, Rose paced her bedroom.


    She couldn¡¯t shake the unease that had been gnawing at her. Something was wrong, and it wasn¡¯t just the distance from her children. Be had always been a wildcard, but now she was a serious threat.


    The woman had an uncanny ability to manipte people, and Rose knew she was ying a dangerous game.


    As she moved around her room, her phone buzzed on the nightstand. She nced at the screen and saw a message from an unknown number. Rose¡¯s heart raced as she unlocked the phone and read the message:


    ¡°She¡¯s making her move. Be ready.¡±It was the only message, and no clue had sent it. But Rose knew exactly who it was referring to.


    ¡°Be,¡± she muttered under her breath. Her phone buzzed again, this time with a call. She answered quickly, her voice sharp. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s about Be,¡± the voice on the other end said, cold and direct. ¡°She¡¯s been talking to some powerful people. She¡¯s preparing to make a move, and if you¡¯re not careful, she¡¯s going to turn the tables on you.¡±Rose clenched her jaw.


    ¡°What do you mean, turn the tables? I have everything under control.¡±


    ¡°You had everything under control,¡± the voice corrected.


    ¡°Be¡¯s been working in the shadows, and she¡¯s closer to taking the Kendrick Empire than you think. You need to act fast, or you¡¯re going to lose everything.


    ¡°Rose¡¯s pulse quickened. She knew she couldn¡¯t afford to hesitate any longer. ¡°What¡¯s her n? Tell me everything you know.¡±


    The voice paused for a moment. ¡°She¡¯s nning a takeover. She¡¯s already secured some of the board members¡¯ support, and she¡¯s using her position as Mr. Kendrick¡¯s fiancee to gain leverage. She¡¯s closer than ever to ousting Ryan from thepany.¡±


    Rose¡¯s grip tightened on the phone. ¡°That bitch. I knew she was up to something.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s worse than you think,¡± the voice continued. ¡°She¡¯s aligning herself with some dangerous people. People who have the resources to make her untouchable. If you don¡¯t move now, she¡¯s going to take everything.¡±


    Rose took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll deal with her. But I need you to keep feeding me information. I need to know every move she makes.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll get it. But be careful. Be¡¯s not ying around anymore.¡±The call ended, and Rose stood there for a moment, processing what she had just heard. Be was nning a full-scale takeover. She had already made significant moves, and now, Rose was behind.


    But not for long. She grabbed her phone again and dialed Parker¡¯s number. He answered after a few rings, his voice sleepy.¡±Rose? What is it? It¡¯ste.¡±


    ¡°We need to elerate the n,¡± Rose said, her voice urgent. ¡°Be¡¯s making her move, and she¡¯s closer than we thought. We can¡¯t wait any longer.¡±Parker¡¯s tone changed, bing more alert. ¡°What are you talking about? What¡¯s happened?¡±


    ¡°I just got a call. Be¡¯s nning to take over the Kendrick Empire. She¡¯s already secured support from some of the board members, and she¡¯s using her position with Mr. Kendrick to solidify her power. We need to stop her before she takes everything.¡±


    Parker was silent for a moment, then he spoke, his voice calm and calcted. ¡°Alright. We¡¯ll move forward. But you need to stay calm, Rose. Panicking won¡¯t help us.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not panicking,¡± Rose snapped. ¡°I¡¯m taking control. I want Be gone, Parker. And I want it done now.¡±


    ¡°Understood,¡± Parker replied. ¡°I¡¯ll make the necessary arrangements. We¡¯ll strike before she has a chance to put her n into action.¡±Rose exhaled slowly, trying to calm the storm brewing inside her.


    ¡°Good. Keep me updated. I want to know everything.¡±


    ¡°I will,¡± Parker promised. ¡°But remember, we need to be smart about this. Be¡¯s not stupid. One wrong move, and she¡¯ll slip through our fingers.¡±


    ¡°Then make sure there are no wrong moves,¡± Rose said coldly before hanging up the phone. She stood there in the dim light of her bedroom, her heart racing with anticipation and fear.


    Be had be more of a threat than she ever imagined, but Rose wasn¡¯t going to let her win. She had worked too hard, sacrificed too much, to let some ambitious gold-digger take what was rightfully hers.


    As she stared out the window, the city lights twinkling in the distance, Rose¡¯s mind raced with ns and possibilities. The game was far from over, and she was ready to make her next move.


    Across town, Be stood in her office, staring at the empire she was about to im. She had no idea what wasing. But soon, she would.

 Chapter 121

    Ivy stood frozen, her eyes wide with shock as she watched her brother standing in Luca¡¯s living room. The tension in the air was palpable as both of them faced each other, neither quite ready to break the silence that had fallen between them.


    Ryan¡¯s casual entrance had now turned into an unexpected confrontation, and he knew he was caught.


    ¡°Ivy¡­¡± Ryan said slowly, running his hands through his hair, a nervous habit he had when trying to gather his thoughts. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±Ivy folded her arms, her gaze narrowing. ¡°I should be asking you that, Ryan. So, let me get this straight-you were faking your memory loss all along, huh? Because you recognize me now.¡±


    Ryan sighed deeply, realizing there was no point in lying anymore. ¡°No, Ivy, I wasn¡¯t faking it. I did lose my memory after the ident. But¡­ it came back a few weeks ago.¡±Ivy¡¯s expression shifted from anger to confusion.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°A few weeks ago? And you didn¡¯t tell anyone? Not me? Not Luca? What the hell, Ryan?¡±Luca, who had been standing quietly to the side, watching the tense exchange between the siblings, stepped forward.


    ¡°Ryan, man, you could¡¯ve told me. We¡¯ve been working so hard trying to piece everything together. I had no idea your memory was back.¡±Ryan ran a hand over his face, frustration creeping into his voice.


    ¡°I know, I know. I just¡­ I didn¡¯t know how to exin it to anyone. It¡¯s not like I woke up one day and everything came flooding back. It¡¯s been bits and pieces, fragments of memoriesing back slowly. I was trying to make sense of it all before I told anyone.¡±Ivy stepped closer to Ryan, her eyes scanning his face for any sign of dishonesty.


    ¡°So, you just kept quiet? Even when things were falling apart, even when Be was making her move on thepany?¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw tightened at the mention of Be. He hadn¡¯t wanted to think about her, much less talk about what she¡¯d been doing. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect things to escte the way they did. By the time I realized Be was trying to take control, it was already toote to act without blowing my cover.¡±Luca interjected, his voice firm but calm.


    ¡°You should¡¯ve trusted us, Ryan. We could¡¯ve helped. Now everything¡¯s a mess, and Be¡¯s got her ws deeper into the Kendrick Empire than ever.¡±


    Ryan let out a low growl of frustration. ¡°I didn¡¯t have a choice! Do you think I wanted this to happen? I was trying to figure out what Be¡¯s endgame was. I thought I could stop her before she made her move, but she¡¯s smarter than I gave her credit for.¡±Ivy shook her head, her voice rising with anger.


    ¡°Smarter? Ryan, Be is dangerous. She¡¯s been ying us all, and you-of all people-should¡¯ve seen that. But instead, you let her get close. And now look where we are!¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes shed with guilt and regret. ¡°I know, Ivy. Trust me, I know. But right now, none of that matters. We have bigger problems.¡±Luca nodded, his arms crossed. ¡°You mean Iris.¡±Ivy blinked, suddenly remembering the mention of Iris when Ryan had barged into the house.


    ¡°Wait-what about Iris? What¡¯s going on?¡±Ryan hesitated for a moment, clearly torn between sharing the truth and trying to protect his sister from the chaos that had consumed their lives.¡±I¡¯ve been tracking her,¡± Ryan finally said, his voice low.


    ¡°She disappeared shortly after the ident, and I¡¯ve been trying to find her ever since. There are men-dangerous men-who are connected to her somehow. I don¡¯t know all the details, but I¡¯ve been trying to follow the trail.¡±Luca frowned. ¡°And these men? Have they contacted you?¡±Ryan nodded.


    ¡°They¡¯ve been giving me bits of information. I think they¡¯re ying me, but I¡¯ve got no other leads. They¡¯re the only ones who seem to know where she is. But it¡¯s like a game to them-every time I get close, they pull back.¡±Ivy¡¯s face paled as she processed Ryan¡¯s words.


    ¡°And you didn¡¯t think to tell me this? My twin sister is missing, and you¡¯re out here ying detective on your own? What the hell, Ryan?¡±¡±I didn¡¯t want to drag you into this,¡± Ryan shot back.


    ¡°These men are dangerous, Ivy. I couldn¡¯t risk you getting hurt.¡±Ivy¡¯s eyes shed with anger. ¡°I¡¯m not a child, Ryan! I have a right to know what¡¯s happening with my sister!¡±Luca, sensing the situation escting further, raised a hand to calm them both.


    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s take a step back. We¡¯re all on the same side here. The goal is to find Iris and figure out what these men want.¡±Ryan turned to Luca, his face strained. ¡°That¡¯s the problem. I don¡¯t know what they want.


    All they¡¯ve done is dangle clues in front of me, and I¡¯m running out of time. Every time I get close, they pull me back. And now¡­ I don¡¯t know if I¡¯ll ever find her.


    ¡°Ivy¡¯s anger began to simmer down, reced by concern. ¡°Ryan¡­ if Iris is in danger, we need to work together. You can¡¯t do this alone.¡±Ryan¡¯s shoulders sagged, the weight of everything pressing down on him. ¡°I know, Ivy. I just¡­ I didn¡¯t want to put anyone else at risk. But I can¡¯t do this without you both.¡±


    Luca nodded in agreement. ¡°We¡¯ll figure this out. But first, we need to focus on what we know.¡±Just as Luca finished speaking, they all heard movement from the hallway.


    The three of them turned, and Ivy gasped when she saw Mrs. Jessica standing there, weak but awake.¡±Mrs. Jessica!¡± Ivy cried, rushing toward her. Mrs. Jessica gave a faint smile, her voice soft but steady.


    ¡°Ivy¡­ Luca. It¡¯s good to see you both.¡±Luca quickly stepped forward, supporting Mrs. Jessica as she slowly made her way to the couch. ¡°You should be resting,¡± he said gently.¡±I¡¯ve rested enough,¡± Mrs. Jessica replied, though her voice still held a tired edge.


    ¡°There¡¯s too much at stake for me to stay in bed.¡±Ivy knelt beside her, tears welling up in her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re alive¡­ I thought¡­ we thought you were gone.¡±Mrs. Jessica reached out and took Ivy¡¯s hand, her grip weak but reassuring. ¡°I¡¯m here, Ivy.


    Thanks to Luca, I¡¯m here.¡±Ryan, standing a few feet away, watched the emotional reunion in silence. He hadn¡¯t expected this-hadn¡¯t known Mrs. Jessica was still alive. His mind raced as he pieced together everything that had just unfolded. Ivy turned to Ryan, her voice thick with emotion.


    ¡°Did you know about this? Did you know she was alive?¡±Ryan shook his head, his voice barely above a whisper. ¡°No¡­ I had no idea.¡±Luca looked at Ryan, his expression serious. ¡°I didn¡¯t tell you because I wasn¡¯t sure who to trust. Mrs. Jessica was in bad shape when I found her.


    The people who had her were nning to move her to another location. I had to act fast.¡±Mrs. Jessica¡¯s eyes flickered with pain as she recalled her captivity. ¡°They were holding me¡­ using me as leverage.


    But I don¡¯t know why. I don¡¯t know what they wanted from me.¡±Ryan stepped forward, his voice filled with urgency. ¡°Mrs. Jessica, do you know anything about Iris? Have they said anything about her?¡±Mrs. Jessica shook her head slowly, her expression sorrowful.


    ¡°No. I wish I could help, but they never mentioned her to me. All I know is that they¡¯re dangerous, and they¡¯re not going to stop until they get what they want.¡±Ivy looked at her mother, her voice trembling.


    ¡°But what do they want? Why are they doing this?¡±Mrs. Jessica¡¯s eyes met Ivy¡¯s, filled with an emotion Ivy couldn¡¯t quite ce. ¡°I don¡¯t know, Ivy. But I have a feeling it¡¯s connected to something much bigger than we realize.


    ¡°Before anyone could respond, Luca¡¯s phone buzzed. He pulled it from his pocket and nced at the screen. His face went pale as he read the message.¡±What is it?¡±


    Ryan asked, noticing the change in Luca¡¯s expression. Luca swallowed hard, his voice tense. ¡°It¡¯s from one of the men. They¡¯ve given us a location. They want us toe alone.¡±Ryan¡¯s heart pounded in his chest. ¡°Do you think they¡¯ll have Iris?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Luca replied, his mind racing. ¡°But we don¡¯t have a choice. We have to go.¡±Ivy stood up, her determination clear. ¡°Then let¡¯s go. We can¡¯t waste any more time.¡±Ryan grabbed his jacket, his mind already racing with ns. But as they all prepared to leave, Mrs. Jessica¡¯s weak voice called out to them.¡±Wait¡­¡±


    They turned to look at her, confusion written on their faces.¡±There¡¯s something I need to tell you,¡± she said, her voice barely a whisper. ¡°Something that could change everything.¡±The room fell silent as they waited for her to continue.


    But before Mrs. Jessica could speak another word, the sound of ss shattering from the front door filled the room, followed by heavy footsteps.


    Luca, Ryan, and Ivy exchanged panicked nces, knowing that whatever wasing next could ruin everything.

 Chapter 122

    Be paced around her room, her phone still in her hand after the unknown caller hung up. She stared at the screen, trying to piece together what the cryptic message meant.¡±Ryan, Ivy, and Luca together?¡± she muttered to herself, frustration simmering beneath the surface.


    ¡°What could they possibly be up to? It can¡¯t be good¡­¡±She threw the phone onto her bed and stood by the window, her mind racing. She didn¡¯t like being kept in the dark, especially when it came to Ryan.


    Things had spiraled out of control since Ryan¡¯s supposed memory loss, and Be was starting to wonder if she was being yed. Her mind shifted to the Kendrick Empire, now within her grasp, but Ryan¡¯s recent behavior was unsettling.


    She needed to figure out what they were doing-whatever their n was, Be wasn¡¯t going to let them ruin everything she had worked for.¡±Guess I¡¯ll have to do some digging myself,¡± she muttered, grabbing her purse and keys, determined to find out more.


    Downstairs, Rose Kendrick glided across the polished floor, a satisfied smile on her face. She had just served Mr. Kendrick his tea, carefullyced with the poison Parker had given her.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    It was all going ording to n-soon, the empire would be hers, free from her husband¡¯s control. She was already imagining her life as the head of the Kendrick fortune, with Parker by her side.


    She entered the kitchen and rummaged through the pantry, quickly grabbing the honey jar as Mr. Kendrick had requested.


    As she headed back upstairs, her mind wandered to the day Parker had first suggested the n.


    At first, it seemed like a drastic measure, but after years of feeling stifled under Kendrick¡¯s thumb, it had begun to make sense.


    This was her chance at freedom-and she wasn¡¯t about to let it slip away. When she returned to the living room, Mr. Kendrick was holding the cup up to his lips, his face scrunched in an expression of distaste.


    ¡°Ugh, this tastes awful,¡± Mr. Kendrickined, his voice hoarse as he forced a smile. Rose chuckled herugh light and teasing. ¡°It¡¯s not that bad, honey. You know, it¡¯s supposed to help you get better.¡±Mr. Kendrick lowered the cup, still holding the bitter expression on his face.


    ¡°Bitter as ever¡­¡±She took the cup from him, giving him a sweet smile as she gathered the rest of the dishes on the tray. Her heart fluttered with excitement-he had drunk the poison. It was only a matter of time now.¡±Sorry about that, dear,¡± she said, chuckling as she ced the dishes onto the tray. ¡°But trust me, you¡¯ll be feeling better in no time.


    ¡°With that, Rose turned and left the room, humming to herself, the image of her victory dancing in her mind. She felt light as if the weight of her miserable marriage was finally being lifted. Soon, all her problems would be solved.


    As soon as the door clicked shut, Mr. Kendrick¡¯s forced smile disappeared. He quickly took out his phone, his hands trembling slightly. It was time to make his move.


    He typed a message carefully, checking over it before sending it to a trusted contact. Once it was sent, he immediately deleted it, ensuring there would be no trace left behind. He slid his phone back into his pocket, his mind racing.


    Rose thought she was clever, but Kendrick had been onto her for a while now. He had suspected something was wrong when his health started deteriorating mysteriously, and now he had proof.


    All he needed was time-time to gather more evidence and time to outsmart Rose and Parker. He wasn¡¯t going to let her take everything from him.


    Meanwhile, Be had made her way to Luca¡¯s neighborhood. She parked her car a little further down the street, hoping to remain unnoticed. Peeking out from her window, she could just make out Ryan, Ivy, and Luca talking outside Luca¡¯s house.


    She leaned forward, trying to eavesdrop from the distance, but it was impossible to hear their conversation.¡±Why are they here together?¡± she muttered.


    ¡°This doesn¡¯t make sense.¡±Her phone buzzed suddenly, and she nced at the screen. It was an unknown number again. Hesitating for a moment, she picked up the call.


    ¡°You really shouldn¡¯t be sneaking around like that,¡± the voice on the other end said, sending a chill down Be¡¯s spine.


    Her heart raced as she sat up straight, scanning the area around her. ¡°Who is this?¡± she demanded, her voice sharp.¡±Let¡¯s just say I¡¯m someone who knows more than you think,¡± the voice replied smoothly.


    ¡°And if you¡¯re smart, you¡¯ll stay away from whatever Ryan, Ivy, and Luca are nning. It¡¯s not going to end well for you.¡±


    Be¡¯s grip tightened on the phone, her knuckles turning white. ¡°You don¡¯t know anything about me,¡± she hissed. ¡°If they¡¯re nning something, I¡¯ll be the one to stop it.¡±


    There was a pause on the other end, followed by a low, menacingugh. ¡°Oh, Be. You have no idea what you¡¯re getting yourself into.¡±


    Before she could respond, the line went dead. Be stared at the phone, her mind swirling with questions. Who was that? And how did they know about her?


    She nced back toward Luca¡¯s house, watching as the three of them continued talking. Whatever was going on, Be knew one thing for sure-she needed to find out.


    Back at the Kendrick mansion, Rose made her way to her bedroom, the satisfaction of her n still fresh in her mind.


    As she entered, she saw her phone buzzing on the nightstand. It was Parker. She answered with a sly smile, her voice soft. ¡°Everything¡¯s going smoothly.¡±


    ¡°I take it he drank the tea?¡± Parker¡¯s voice came through, calm but filled with anticipation. Rose chuckled lightly. ¡°Yes. Everything is right on track.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Parker said, his tone turning more serious. ¡°But be careful. If Kendrick suspects anything-¡±


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t,¡± Rose cut him off confidently. ¡°He¡¯s none the wiser. Trust me, Parker. We¡¯re almost there. Soon, we¡¯ll have everything.¡±


    Parker paused on the other end, a trace of uncertainty in his voice. ¡°Just make sure nothing goes wrong. If anyone finds out what we¡¯ve done¡­¡±


    ¡°They won¡¯t,¡± Rose reassured him, her toneced with certainty. ¡°We¡¯ve covered our tracks. Kendrick won¡¯t be around long enough to cause any problems.


    ¡°With that, Rose hung up the call, her eyes gleaming with determination. Soon, everything she had ever dreamed of would be hers. There was no turning back now.


    Later that evening, Mr. Kendrick wheeled himself into his private study, making sure the door was securely locked behind him.


    His hands shook as he reached for the drawer where he kept the hidden stash of medication, pills that he had been secretly taking to counteract the effects of Rose¡¯s poison. He had known for weeks that something was off with the tea she had been serving him.


    The taste had been slightly different, bitter in a way that made his suspicions grow. After some discreet testing, he had confirmed his worst fears-Rose was slowly poisoning him.


    Now, it was a game of survival, a silent war between husband and wife. But Kendrick wasn¡¯t going down without a fight. He swallowed the pills quickly, washing them down with water, his mind already racing through his next move.


    He had sent the message earlier to a trusted ally-someone he knew he could rely on to help him escape Rose¡¯s deadly n.


    But time was running out, and Kendrick needed to act fast.


    Suddenly, his phone buzzed with a reply. He quickly opened the message, reading the words carefully:


    ¡°I¡¯m ready. We move tomorrow.¡±Kendrick breathed a sigh of relief. The n was in motion. All he had to do now was survive another night in the house of vipers.


    Meanwhile, Be drove back to the city, her mind consumed with thoughts of Ryan, Ivy, and Luca. The unknown caller¡¯s warning echoed in her head, but she refused to let it deter her.


    She needed to find out what they were nning. Arriving at her penthouse, Be was greeted by the sight of a familiar figure waiting in the lobby-her brother, Marcus. He looked up as she entered, a grim expression on his face.¡±Marcus?¡± Be said, surprised. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°I heard something disturbing today,¡± Marcus replied, his voice low as he stepped toward her. ¡°Something about Ryan, Ivy, and Luca. I think you need to hear this.¡±Be¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°What do you know?¡±Marcus nced around cautiously before lowering his voice.


    ¡°They¡¯re nning something big, Be. And I think it involves the Kendrick fortune.¡±Be¡¯s eyes widened as she felt a cold dread settle in her chest. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I overheard some men talking,¡± Marcus continued.


    ¡°They mentioned Ryan¡¯s memorying back-and how he¡¯s been ying everyone for a fool.¡±Be¡¯s mind reeled at the revtion. ¡°So, Ryan¡¯s memory¡­ it¡¯s back?¡±Marcus nodded grimly. ¡°And it¡¯s worse than that. He¡¯s been working with Luca and Ivy behind the scenes. They¡¯re nning to take everything.¡±


    Be felt her blood run cold. She had suspected Ryan was hiding something, but this was worse than she had imagined. If they were plotting to take the Kendrick Empire from her, she had to act-and fast.


    ¡°We can¡¯t let that happen,¡± Be said, her voice steely with resolve. ¡°We¡¯ll take them down before they get the chance

 Chapter 123

    Ivy sat quietly in the living room, her mind still trying to process everything that Ryan and Luca had just told her. Mrs. Jessica¡¯s revtions hade as aplete shock, shaking the very foundation of what Ivy thought she knew about her life.


    Ryan leaned back in his chair, rubbing the back of his neck as he spoke, his voice low and serious. ¡°It was all true, Ivy. Jessica told us everything. You and Iris are twins-separated at birth.¡±


    Luca sat beside Ivy, his expression sympathetic but cautious. He had been there when Mrs. Jessica exined the whole story, and though he had prepared himself for Ivy¡¯s reaction, nothing could have truly readied him for the emotional whirlwind she was now going through.


    Ivy¡¯s heart pounded in her chest as she stared at Ryan in disbelief. ¡°So¡­ so what you¡¯re telling me is that Iris is my twin sister?¡± She shook her head, trying to make sense of it all. ¡°That¡¯s why everyone always said we looked alike?¡±Ryan nodded slowly.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s exactly why. You two were separated at birth¡­ for reasons we¡¯re still piecing together. But Jessica, she¡¯s your real mother.¡±¡±No, no, no¡­¡± Ivy whispered, her voice growing louder with every word as she sped her hands over her head. ¡°So Mom-Rose-she¡¯s not my real mother?¡±Ryan exchanged a nce with Luca before answering.


    ¡°No. Rose isn¡¯t your biological mother. Jessica is.¡±Ivy¡¯s breath hitched as she felt a wave of nausea hit her. Her entire life had been a lie, and the woman she had called ¡°Mom¡± all these years wasn¡¯t even rted to her by blood.


    The realization hit her like a freight train.¡±So, I¡¯ve been living a lie this whole time?¡± she asked, her voice trembling.


    ¡°All these years, and no one told me? Not even Jessica?¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw clenched as he tried to navigate the delicate conversation. ¡°Jessica didn¡¯t have a choice. Rose and Kendrick took you and Iris away from her after you were born. She¡¯s been living in the shadows, trying to protect you both from the Kendricks.¡±Ivy¡¯s head was spinning.


    ¡°But why? Why would they separate us? What could they possibly gain from it?¡±Luca spoke softly, choosing his words carefully. ¡°It¡¯splicated, Ivy. There¡¯s a lot about the Kendricks that we¡¯re still trying to uncover. But one thing¡¯s for sure: they didn¡¯t want Jessica in the picture. They wanted you and Iris for their reasons.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s mind reeled with questions, her emotions a chaotic mix of anger, confusion, and sadness. ¡°So all those times I looked in the mirror and saw Iris¡¯s face staring back at me¡­ it was because we¡¯re twins?¡±


    Ryan nodded again, his expression grim. ¡°Yeah. And Jessica¡­ she¡¯s been watching over you both for years. She¡¯s the reason you and Iris are still alive.¡±Ivy¡¯s chest tightened, tears welling up in her eyes. She could feel the walls of her reality crumbling around her.


    ¡°But how could Rose do this? She raised me, acted like I was her daughter. How could she lie to me like that?¡±Ryan leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. ¡°I don¡¯t know, Ivy. Rose has always had her agenda. But now that we know the truth, we have to figure out what to do next.¡±


    Ivy felt her world copsing in on itself. She had always been the confident, outspoken one-the twin who thrived on attention and had no time for sentimentality. But now, everything she thought she knew about her life was unraveling.¡±Do you know what this means?¡± Ivy said, her voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°I¡¯m not just the spoiled Kendrick daughter anymore. I¡¯m Iris¡¯s twin sister. I¡¯m-¡± She paused, choking back a sob. ¡°I don¡¯t even know who I am anymore.¡±Luca reached out to gently ce a hand on her arm, trying to offer somefort. ¡°You¡¯re still Ivy,¡± he said softly. ¡°That hasn¡¯t changed.¡±Ivy pulled her arm away, standing up abruptly, her head pounding with the weight of it all.


    ¡°But it has changed! Everything¡¯s changed! I¡¯m not who I thought I was, Luca. I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m a stranger to myself.¡±She began pacing the room, her breathing growing more erratic. The revtions were too much for her to handle, and as the questions piled up in her mind, she felt the overwhelming urge to scream.


    ¡°Was I nothing more than a pawn in their game? Is that all I¡¯ve ever been?¡± Ivy¡¯s voice cracked as tears spilled down her cheeks. ¡°I thought I had control over my life, but I don¡¯t. I never did.¡±


    Ryan stood up and approached her cautiously. ¡°Ivy, I know this is hard. Trust me, I¡¯m still processing everything too. But we need to stay focused. We have to figure out how to deal with Rose and Kendrick. They¡¯ve been lying to both of us and now we have the chance to expose them.¡±


    But Ivy couldn¡¯t hear him anymore. Her mind was racing with thoughts, memories, and shes of everything she¡¯d been through. The endlesspetition with Iris, the way people alwayspared them, the strange connection she¡¯d felt with her-it all made sense now. But the truth was more painful than she could have ever imagined.


    ¡°Jessica is our mother,¡± Ivy whispered, more to herself than to Ryan and Luca. ¡°Iris and I were separated¡­ we were supposed to grow up together.¡±She clutched her head, the weight of the revtion crashing down on her like a tidal wave.


    ¡°No¡­ no¡­ this can¡¯t be real.¡±Luca stepped forward, worry etched into his features. ¡°Ivy, calm down. It¡¯s a lot to take in, but you¡¯re not alone. We¡¯re here to help you through this.¡±But Ivy couldn¡¯t calm down. She couldn¡¯t breathe.


    The room was spinning, and her legs felt weak beneath her. Everything was unraveling too fast, and she couldn¡¯t keep up with the torrent of emotions flooding her senses.¡±I¡­ I can¡¯t¡­¡± Ivy¡¯s voice wavered as her vision blurred. The world around her seemed to fade, and the next thing she knew, her knees buckled beneath her, and everything went ck.


    Luca was the first to react, rushing forward as Ivy copsed to the floor. ¡°Ivy!¡± he shouted, kneeling beside her and gently cradling her head. ¡°Ivy, wake up!¡±Ryan stood frozen for a moment, his mind racing as panic set in. ¡°What the hell just happened?¡±


    ¡°I think she¡¯s in shock,¡± Luca muttered, checking her pulse. ¡°We need to get her to the room.¡±Ryan quickly snapped out of his daze and helped Luca lift Ivy¡¯s limp body. Together, they carried her to a nearby guest room,ying her down gently on the bed. Luca pulled out his phone and dialed the doctor¡¯s number.¡±


    She¡¯s been through too much today,¡± Luca said as the phone rang. ¡°Her mind just couldn¡¯t take it.¡±Ryan paced back and forth, frustration and concern warring on his face. ¡°We shouldn¡¯t have told her everything at once. She wasn¡¯t ready for this.¡±Luca shook his head as the doctor picked up.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t about being ready. She needed to know the truth.¡± He exined Ivy¡¯s condition to the doctor and gave him the address, urging him toe quickly. Once the call ended, Luca turned back to Ryan. ¡°The doctor will be here soon.¡±Ryan leaned against the wall, his hands in his hair, guilt gnawing at him. ¡°Ivy¡¯s tough. I thought she could handle it. But I didn¡¯t realize how deep it would cut.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯ll be okay,¡± Luca said, though his voice was uncertain. ¡°But we need to be prepared for what happens when she wakes up.¡±Ryan narrowed his eyes, crossing his arms. ¡°You think she¡¯ll freak out again?¡±Luca sighed. ¡°I don¡¯t know. But finding out that her whole life was a lie? That she¡¯s Iris¡¯s twin? That Rose isn¡¯t her real mother? It¡¯s a lot for anyone to handle.¡±


    Ryan stayed silent for a moment, his jaw clenched. ¡°We have to make sure she¡¯s okay. And then¡­ we deal with Rose.¡±Luca nced at Ivy, whoy motionless on the bed, her breathing shallow but steady.


    ¡°One step at a time, Ryan. First, we get her through this.¡±An hourter, the doctor arrived. He examined Ivy carefully, checking her vitals and ensuring that she hadn¡¯t suffered any physical injuries from the copse.¡±She¡¯s in shock,¡± the doctor confirmed, his voice calm and professional.


    ¡°Her body is reacting to emotional trauma. She¡¯ll need rest and some time to process what she¡¯s been through.¡±Ryan nodded, his face etched with worry. ¡°Will she be okay?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯ll recover physically,¡± the doctor said. ¡°But emotionally¡­ that¡¯s a different story. Be patient with her. Let here to terms with everything in her own time.¡±


    As the doctor left, Luca and Ryan stood by Ivy¡¯s bedside, their minds heavy with the weight of the situation.¡±She¡¯s going to wake up eventually,¡± Luca said quietly.


    ¡°And when she does, we need to be ready to help her through this.¡±Ryan¡¯s gaze hardened. ¡°I¡¯ll do whatever it takes. But Rose¡­ she¡¯s going to pay for what she did to us.¡±Luca¡¯s expression was grim. ¡°We need to be careful. Rose isn¡¯t going to go down without a fight.¡±Ryan nodded slowly, his fists clenched

 Chapter 124

    Ryan stood beside Ivy¡¯s bed, his heart aching as he watched his sister struggle to process the overwhelming truth that had just been revealed.


    He gently held her hand, feeling the coldness of her skin, the tremors running through her body, and the vulnerability in her eyes-a stark contrast to the confident, carefree Ivy he had always known.


    ¡°It¡¯s going to be fine, Ivy,¡± Ryan said softly, his voice full of determination. ¡°I promise you, we¡¯ll get through this together.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s eyes were wide, filled with confusion and fear. She looked at Ryan, searching for reassurance, but the turmoil within her was too much to bear.


    ¡°Ryan¡­ please, find Iris. I still can¡¯t believe she¡¯s my sister, my twin. How is that possible? What have I done? How could I have been so blind?¡±Ryan squeezed her hand, trying to steady her racing thoughts.


    ¡°Ivy, listen to me. None of this is your fault. You didn¡¯t know. We were all kept in the dark.¡±Ivy shook her head, her voice trembling with disbelief.


    ¡°What if¡­ what if this is all a dream? Please, wake me up, Ryan. How can I be a sister to Iris? How? It doesn¡¯t make any sense.¡±Ryan¡¯s heart broke at the desperation in her voice. He wished he could take away her pain, but he knew the only way forward was to help her face the truth.


    ¡°Just rest your head now, Ivy. Let everything sink in. There¡¯s someone Luca and I are trying to trace. We need to figure out what¡¯s going on.¡±


    As Ryan turned to leave the room, Ivy¡¯s grip tightened on his hand, stopping him in his tracks. Her eyes filled with fear as she whispered, ¡°Be careful, Ryan. Mom and Dad¡­ they¡¯re dangerous. We can¡¯t trust anyone right now.¡±Ryan nodded, understanding the gravity of her warning.


    ¡°I know. We¡¯ll be careful, I promise.¡±Luca, who had been standing quietly by Ivy¡¯s side, gently took her hand in his, giving it a reassuring squeeze.


    ¡°Rest now, Ivy. We¡¯ll be back soon.¡±With a final look at his sister, Ryan walked out of the room with Luca following closely behind. As they closed the door behind them, the weight of the situation settled heavily on their shoulders.


    Once they were out of earshot, Ryan turned to Luca, his voice tense. ¡°We need to find out who¡¯s behind this. There¡¯s more to this than just what Jessica told us. If Ivy and Iris were separated at birth, there¡¯s got to be a reason-something we¡¯re missing.¡±Luca nodded, his mind already racing with possibilities.


    ¡°I agree. But first, we need to figure out who¡¯s been watching us. The unknown caller who tipped off Be about us being together-there¡¯s someone out there pulling the strings.¡±Ryan clenched his fists, anger simmering beneath the surface.


    ¡°Whoever it is, they¡¯ve been ying us for years. We¡¯ve been manipted, lied to, and used. But not anymore. We¡¯re going to take control of this situation.¡±Luca¡¯s eyes were sharp with determination. ¡°I¡¯ve been working on tracing the call.


    I have a few leads, but it¡¯s going to take time. In the meantime, we need to be cautious. Ivy was right-we can¡¯t trust anyone, not even the people closest to us.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s jaw tightened as he considered their next move. ¡°We need to keep Ivy safe. She¡¯s vulnerable right now, and if Rose or Kendrick find out what she knows, they won¡¯t hesitate to silence her.¡±Luca¡¯s expression darkened at the thought.


    ¡°Agreed. We¡¯ll have to take shifts watching over her. But we also need to get to the bottom of this. We can¡¯t let whoever¡¯s behind this keep manipting us.¡±Ryan nodded, his mind racing with ns.


    ¡°I¡¯ll dig into the family records and see if there¡¯s anything that could exin why Ivy and Iris were separated. There has to be something we¡¯ve overlooked.¡±Luca nced at his phone, which was buzzing with iing messages.


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep working on tracing that call. If we can find out who¡¯s been feeding Be information, we might be able to get a step ahead.¡±Ryan sighed, running a hand through his hair. ¡°We¡¯re in the middle of a storm, Luca. But we¡¯re not going to let it swallow us whole. We¡¯re going to fight back.¡±Luca¡¯s gaze was steady as he met Ryan¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°We¡¯re in this together. Whatever it takes, we¡¯ll get to the truth.¡±Back in the room, Ivyy still, her mind a whirlwind of emotions.


    The revtions had shattered her sense of self, and she struggled to find solid ground in the sea of confusion. She had always prided herself on being strong, independent, and in control. But now, she felt like a fragile leaf in a storm, tossed around by forces beyond her understanding.


    She closed her eyes, trying to calm her racing thoughts, but the questions kepting. Why had Rose lied to her? What was the real reason behind the separation?


    And how could she have lived her whole life without knowing the truth? A part of her wanted to reject it all, to believe that this was some twisted nightmare. But deep down, she knew it was real. The truth was painful, but it was undeniable.


    As shey there, a sudden thought struck her like a bolt of lightning. If Jessica was her real mother, then everything Rose had told her was a lie. All the affection, the care-it was all part of a grand deception.


    Tears welled up in Ivy¡¯s eyes as she grappled with the betrayal. She had always craved Rose¡¯s approval and had gone out of her way to make her proud.


    But now, she realized that all of it had been for nothing. Ivy¡¯s chest tightened with a mix of anger and sorrow. She had lost something precious-her sense of identity. And in its ce, there was a void, a gaping hole that could never be filled.


    But as the tears fell, Ivy¡¯s sadness slowly gave way to something else-a burning resolve. She wasn¡¯t going to let Rose get away with this. She wasn¡¯t going to let the lies define her any longer.


    She was going to fight back. With a shaky breath, Ivy wiped away her tears and sat up in bed. Her head throbbed, and her body felt weak, but her mind was clearer than it had been in hours. She knew what she had to do. She needed to confront Rose.


    Meanwhile, Ryan and Luca were in the study, going through old family documents and records. They had spread out papers across the desk, searching for any clue that could exin the separation of Ivy and Iris.


    ¡°There has to be something here,¡± Ryan muttered as he flipped through a stack of legal documents. ¡°Some reason why they would keep this secret for so long.¡±Luca was focused on hisptop, tracing the unknown over the ce.


    Whoever made that call knew what they were doing.¡±Ryan looked up from the papers, frustration etched into his features. ¡°We¡¯re running out of time, Luca. If Be knows about Ivy and Iris, it won¡¯t be long before Rose and Kendrick find out too. We need answers, and we need them now.¡±


    Luca nodded, his fingers flying over the keyboard. ¡°I¡¯m working as fast as I can. But we need to be ready for whateveres next. If Rose is involved in this, she¡¯s not going to let us dig too deep.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed as he thought about his mother. ¡°Rose has always been secretive, always ying her games. But this-this goes beyond anything I ever imagined.¡±


    Luca¡¯s phone buzzed, drawing his attention. He nced at the screen, his expression darkening. ¡°Ryan, we¡¯ve got a problem. The call-it¡¯sing from inside the house.¡±Ryan¡¯s blood ran cold. ¡°What?¡±Luca turned theptop toward Ryan, showing him the screen. ¡°The signal¡¯sing from within the Kendrick estate. Someone here is feeding information to Be, or worse-to Rose.¡±This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Ryan¡¯s mind raced as he processed the implications. ¡°That means we have a mole. Someone on the inside is working against us.¡±Luca nodded, his face grim.


    ¡°And they¡¯re close enough to know everything we¡¯re doing.¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw tightened as the realization sank in. ¡°We need to find out who it is, and fast. If they¡¯re working for Rose, Ivy¡¯s life could be in danger.¡±Luca closed theptop, his expression hardening. ¡°We¡¯ll have to be careful. Whoever it is, they¡¯re ying a dangerous game. We can¡¯t let them know we¡¯re onto them.¡±Ryan nodded in agreement.


    ¡°We¡¯ll keep this between us for now. We need to find out who¡¯s behind this before they strike again.¡±But as they spoke, neither of them noticed the shadow lurking just outside the study door, listening intently to every word they said.


    Back in her room, Ivy gathered her strength and resolved to confront Rose. She couldn¡¯t let this lie fester any longer. She needed answers-now.


    Slowly, she stood up, her legs still shaky from the shock. She made her way to the door, her mind focused on the confrontation thaty ahead. But as she reached for the handle, she heard footsteps approaching.


    Ivy froze, her heart pounding in her chest. She wasn¡¯t ready for this, not yet.


    But the footsteps grew louder and closer until they stopped just outside her door.


    She held her breath, waiting, but the door didn¡¯t open. Instead, she heard a faint whisper-

 Chapter 125

    Ivy held her breath, her heart pounding in her chest as she opened the door. A figure stood in front of her, and the dim light from the hallway revealed the face of Mrs. Jessica.


    Ivy¡¯s eyes widened in shock as the older woman stood before her, a mix of exhaustion and sadness etched into her features.


    ¡°Who are you? What are you doing here?¡± Ivy demanded, her voice sharp and filled with suspicion. Her voice was loud enough to carry down the hall. Within moments, Ryan and Luca rushed out of the study, concern written all over their faces.


    They stopped abruptly as they saw Ivy standing face-to-face with Mrs. Jessica. Relieved but still wary, Ryan and Luca hurried to help Mrs. Jessica, gently guiding her to sit on a nearby chair.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Jessica¡¯s eyes, though tired, were filled with emotion as they focused solely on Ivy. The older woman¡¯s hand trembled as she reached out, wanting to touch Ivy¡¯s face.


    But Ivy stepped back, out of reach, her expression confused and guarded.¡±Your eyes¡­ they¡¯re the same as my Iris,¡± Mrs. Jessica whispered, her voice breaking with emotion.


    ¡°You look so much like her¡­¡±Ivy¡¯s breath hitched. She nced at Ryan and Luca, silently asking for some kind of confirmation. Both men nodded, giving her an approving look. Ivy turned back to the woman in front of her, her voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°Are you¡­ Mrs. Jessica?¡± Ivy asked, her tone uncertain. Mrs. Jessica nodded, tears welling up in her eyes. She could barely speak, her voice caught in her throat. Hot tears ran down Ivy¡¯s cheeks as the weight of realization hit her.


    ¡°So, you left me¡­ You abandoned me all these years?¡± Ivy¡¯s voice was low, but the pain and betrayal in her words were palpable.


    ¡°And now youe back? Why?¡±Mrs. Jessica¡¯s vision blurred with tears, and her trembling hands reached out again, desperate to bridge the gap between her and the daughter she had lost. But Ivy took another step back, keeping her distance.¡±Ivy¡­¡±


    Mrs. Jessica¡¯s voice cracked as she spoke. ¡°I didn¡¯t abandon you. I named you Ivy, and I told your father, hoping he wouldn¡¯t change the name. I loved you both-I loved you and Iris-but I couldn¡¯t give you both the care you needed. I could barely feed myself, let alone two children. So I had to reach out to your father to help take care of one of you¡­¡±


    Ivy¡¯s jaw clenched as she listened, her emotions swirling in a storm of anger, sadness, and confusion. Mrs. Jessica¡¯s words cut deep, stirring the pain of abandonment she had carried for so long. Mrs. Jessica continued, her voice shaking as she spoke through her tears.


    ¡°It was the hardest thing I ever had to do. But I had no choice. I wanted you to have a better life, a chance at something more. Your father-he didn¡¯t want to take you. I had to beg him, plead with him. He said I was trying to ruin his family. I told him to take you, that I would never show my face again. I thought¡­ I thought he would treat you well. He was your father. I thought you would have a better life without me¡­¡±


    Ivy stood frozen, her chest heaving as the emotions overwhelmed her. Mrs. Jessica¡¯s tears flowed freely now, each drop a reflection of years of guilt and regret.


    ¡°But you shouldn¡¯t have given me up,¡± Ivy whispered, her voice trembling with a mix of hurt and anger. ¡°I deserved to be with my mother¡­¡±Mrs. Jessica¡¯s face crumpled at Ivy¡¯s words, and her hands shook as she covered her face, sobbing softly. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Ivy,¡± she managed between sobs.


    ¡°I thought I was doing what was best for you. I never wanted to hurt you.¡±Ryan and Luca watched in silence, both close to tears themselves as they witnessed the heartbreaking reunion. The air was thick with emotion, the weight of years of unspoken truths and buried paining to the surface.


    Ryan, his voice gentle, broke the silence. ¡°Ivy, she didn¡¯t have a choice. We¡¯ve all been victims of something bigger than us. She did what she thought was right at the time.¡±But Ivy shook her head, wiping away the tears that kept spilling from her eyes.


    ¡°I grew up thinking I had everything I needed. But it was all a lie. How could you let me believe that everything was perfect when I had a sister out there-a twin sister-and no one told me?¡±Mrs. Jessica¡¯s hands dropped from her face as she tried again to reach for Ivy.


    ¡°I never wanted to separate you two. It was killing me, Ivy. But I couldn¡¯t even afford to feed you both. You would have starved if I hadn¡¯t given you up. I thought your father would provide you with everything I couldn¡¯t.¡±Ivy let out a bitterugh, stepping further away.


    ¡°Everything you couldn¡¯t? Do you mean money? Is that what you thought I needed more than you?¡±I thought he would love you, take care of you,¡± Mrs. Jessica whispered.¡±Love me?¡± Ivy¡¯s voice rose, her anger bubbling to the surface.


    ¡°Do you know what my life was like? How could you leave me with people who never cared about me? People who were so obsessed with their secrets that they used me as a pawn in their games?¡±Mrs. Jessica shook her head, tears streaming down her face. ¡°I didn¡¯t know¡­ I thought they would protect you.¡±


    ¡°But they didn¡¯t!¡± Ivy shouted, her voice cracking with emotion. ¡°I was nothing more than a tool to them. And you-you were gone. I needed you. I needed you, and you weren¡¯t there!¡±Mrs. Jessica stood, her legs shaky but determined, and took a step toward Ivy.


    ¡°I¡¯m here now, Ivy. I know it¡¯s not enough, but I¡¯m here. And I want to make it right.¡±Ivy¡¯s tears blurred her vision as she shook her head. ¡°You can¡¯t fix this. You can¡¯t undo the years of lies.¡±


    Ryan stepped forward, cing a hand on Ivy¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Ivy, I know this is hard. But we¡¯re all trying to make sense of what happened. We¡¯re all trying to figure out the truth. And maybe¡­ maybe this is a chance to start over.¡±


    Ivy looked up at him, her heart heavy with the weight of betrayal and pain. She wanted to scream, tosh out at the world for everything it had taken from her. But deep down, a part of her longed for the connection she had missed out on.


    She turned back to Mrs. Jessica, her eyes filled with conflicting emotions. ¡°I don¡¯t know if I can forgive you. Not yet.¡±Mrs. Jessica nodded, understanding the depth of Ivy¡¯s hurt. ¡°I don¡¯t expect you to. But I¡¯m here, and I¡¯m not going anywhere this time. I just want you to know that.¡±


    Silence settled over the room, thick with unresolved emotions. Ryan, Luca, and Mrs. Jessica stood still, waiting for Ivy¡¯s next move. For a moment, it seemed like the tension would break, that they might find a way forward together.


    But then, the sound of approaching footsteps echoed down the hallway, and everyone¡¯s attention shifted.


    The door to the room creaked open slowly, revealing a tall, shadowed figure standing in the doorway.


    The air in the room grew heavy with a sense of impending danger. Ryan¡¯s body tensed as he instinctively moved in front of Ivy and Mrs. Jessica, his eyes narrowing as he focused on the figure. Luca stepped forward, ready for whatever was about to unfold.


    The figure stepped into the light, and Ivy¡¯s breath caught in her throat. It was Kendrick. He looked calm, too calm, as if he had expected this moment. His eyes swept over the room, lingering on each of them in turn, before settling on Mrs. Jessica.¡±Jessica,¡± Kendrick said, his voice cold and menacing.


    ¡°So you¡¯re still alive after all these years.¡±Mrs. Jessica¡¯s face went pale, her body trembling with fear as she took a step back. ¡°Kendrick¡­¡±Ryan stepped forward, his fists clenched at his sides. ¡°What do you want, Kendrick?¡±


    Kendrick smiled a cruel glint in his eyes. ¡°I think you already know the answer to that, Ryan. I¡¯m here for what¡¯s mine.¡±Luca¡¯s voice was low and dangerous as he spoke. ¡°You¡¯re not taking anything from us, Kendrick. Not now, not ever.¡±


    But Kendrick¡¯s smile only widened, his gaze shifting to Ivy. ¡°Oh, but you¡¯re wrong. You see, I¡¯ve already taken everything.¡±Ivy¡¯s heart pounded in her chest as she stared at the man who had shaped her life with lies and maniption.


    Her mind raced, trying to understand what he meant, but before she could speak, Kendrick turned his back to them and walked out of the room, leaving behind an ominous silence.


    For a moment, no one moved. The weight of Kendrick¡¯s words hung in the air like a dark cloud, and a chill ran down Ivy¡¯s spine.

 Chapter 126

    The atmosphere in the room was tense as they gathered around Luca, who had just pulled out a stack of recordings and pictures from his investigators.


    His face was grim, and the weight of the evidence in his hands seemed to carry the burden of the truth that was about to be unveiled.


    Ryan and Ivy sat across from him, their eyes wide with disbelief. Mrs. Jessica, still recovering from her emotional reunion with Ivy, watched from the side, her face pale but determined.¡±I can¡¯t believe this,¡± Ivy muttered, her voice barely audible as she stared at the damning evidenceid out before them.


    ¡°All these years, we¡¯ve been living with a deceiving woman¡­¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw clenched, his knuckles turning white as he gripped the edge of the table.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose¡­ my mother. How could she?¡±Luca ced the photographs in front of them-pictures of Parker and Mrs. Rose meeting secretly, exchanging envelopes, and whispering in the shadows.


    The recordings yed softly in the background, Parker¡¯s voice clear as day, discussing underhanded deals and schemes.¡±She¡¯s been manipting us all,¡± Luca said, his voice low and filled with anger.


    ¡°Everything she¡¯s done, every lie she¡¯s told-it all makes sense now.¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes burned with fury as he leaned forward. ¡°Mrs. Jessica, did you know any of this? Did you know what she was capable of?¡±Mrs. Jessica shook her head, tears filling her eyes as she recalled her torment.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know how deep her betrayal went¡­ until recently.¡±Ivy¡¯s gaze softened as she turned to Mrs. Jessica. ¡°What do you mean?¡±Mrs. Jessica took a deep breath, her voice trembling as she began to recount the horrors she had endured. ¡°I don¡¯t know how Mrs.


    Rose found me after all these years, but she did. She had me kidnapped at the hospital. I was held hostage for weeks, maybe months¡­ I lost track of time.


    And one day, she came to see me.¡±Ryan¡¯s face darkened. ¡°She came to you? What did she say?¡±Mrs. Jessica¡¯s voice wavered.


    ¡°She told me she was going to end me and my daughter-both of us. She didn¡¯t mention where Iris was, or where she kept her, but she was confident that no one would find out.¡±Ivy¡¯s breath caught in her throat, and her eyes filled with tears.


    ¡°She wanted to kill Iris?¡±Mrs. Jessica nodded, her hands shaking. ¡°Yes. But she was also careless. She let things slip.


    The men who kept me hostage-they weren¡¯t subtle.


    They would bring girls to the hideout, treating them terribly.


    They never touched me, but I overheard enough to know what they were doing. I¡¯m sorry I couldn¡¯t find out more¡­¡±


    There was a long pause, the room filled with heavy silence as they all digested the gravity of Mrs. Rose¡¯s actions. Ivy wiped away a tear, her hands trembling as she looked at Ryan.¡±What do we do now?¡± she whispered. Suddenly, Ryan sat up straighter, his eyes narrowing in thought.


    ¡°Wait a minute. Remember the number we found on Be¡¯s phone? The one we couldn¡¯t trace?¡±Luca raised an eyebrow, his mind already working through the possibilities. ¡°Yeah, the one that seemed like it belonged to someone important. Why?¡±


    ¡°I have an idea,¡± Ryan said, a flicker of determination crossing his face. ¡°If we can connect that number to the people who were keeping Mrs. Jessica hostage, maybe we can find Iris.


    The guys Mrs. Jessica mentioned-they must be connected to that phone number.¡±Mrs. Jessica looked at Ryan, her heart racing with hope. ¡°You think it might lead to where Iris is being held?¡±Ryan nodded, already reaching for his phone.


    ¡°It¡¯s worth a shot. We need to track that number and find out who¡¯s behind it. Whoever it is might lead us to the people Mrs. Rose has been working with.¡±


    Luca leaned forward, his eyes sharpening as he began to form a n. ¡°I can have my team trace the number and figure out its connections. If this person is important enough to have been in contact with Be, they¡¯ll have a link to Mrs. Rose and Parker¡¯s operations.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s heart pounded in her chest, the sudden surge of hope almost too much to bear. She had promised Mrs. Jessica that she would find her twin, and now it seemed like they were closer than ever. ¡°If we can find this guy, we might be able to rescue Iris.¡±Ryan nodded, determination clear on his face.


    ¡°We¡¯ll track him down and get her back. Whatever it takes.¡±Luca quickly began dialing his contacts, issuing rapid instructions to trace the phone number they had retrieved from Be¡¯s phone. ¡°I¡¯ll get this sorted as fast as I can.


    In the meantime, we need to stay one step ahead of Mrs. Rose and Parker. They can¡¯t know we¡¯re onto them.¡±Ryan turned to Mrs. Jessica, his expression softening slightly. ¡°Thank you for telling us what you know. I know it must have been difficult to relive all of that.¡±Mrs. Jessica nodded, her voice thick with emotion.


    ¡°I just want to see my daughters safe¡­ both of them.¡±Ivy reached out, hesitating for a moment before cing her hand gently on Mrs. Jessica¡¯s. ¡°We¡¯ll find her. I promise.¡±


    Hours passed, the tension in the room rising as Luca¡¯s team worked tirelessly to trace the number. Ryan paced back and forth, his mind racing as he thought of all the ways this could go wrong.


    Ivy sat beside Mrs. Jessica, her heart pounding with worry for her sister, while Luca remained focused on his phone.


    Finally, Luca¡¯s phone buzzed. He nced at the screen, his eyes narrowing as he read the message.¡±I¡¯ve got something,¡± he said, his voice filled with urgency. Ryan rushed over to him.


    ¡°What is it?¡±Luca held up his phone, showing the address that had been traced back to the number. ¡°It¡¯s a private estate just outside of town. Whoever owns it has connections to some shady business dealings. It looks like this is our guy.¡±Ivy¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    ¡°That¡¯s where Iris could be?¡±Luca nodded. ¡°It¡¯s possible. We won¡¯t know for sure until we get there.¡±Ryan grabbed his jacket, determination in his eyes.


    ¡°We¡¯re not waiting. We¡¯re going now.¡±Ivy stood, her hands trembling as she tried to steady herself. ¡°I¡¯ming with you.¡±Ryan turned to her, his expression serious. ¡°It¡¯s dangerous, Ivy. We don¡¯t know what we¡¯re walking into.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care,¡± Ivy said firmly. ¡°I¡¯m not staying behind while you go after my sister.¡±Luca stepped in. ¡°She has a point. If Iris is there, Ivy should be with us. But we need to be careful. This isn¡¯t going to be easy.¡±


    Mrs. Jessica looked at her daughter, fear and hope warring in her eyes. ¡°Please¡­ be careful.¡±Ivy hugged her tightly. ¡°I will. I¡¯ll bring her back. I promise.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    With that, they set out, the tension mounting with each passing minute as they drove toward the location Luca had uncovered.


    The estate loomed in the distance, a dark and imposing structure hidden away from prying eyes. The air grew heavy with the weight of what they were about to face.


    As they approached the gates, Luca turned to the others. ¡°We need to stay quiet. We can¡¯t let them know we¡¯re here until we¡¯re ready to move.¡±Ryan nodded, his face grim as he gripped the wheel. ¡°Let¡¯s do this.¡±


    They slipped through the gates, moving silently as they made their way toward the main building. The night was eerily quiet, the only sound the rustle of leaves in the wind. Luca led the way, his eyes scanning for any sign of movement.


    Suddenly, a faint cry echoed from the building.


    Ivy froze, her heart skipping a beat.¡±Did you hear that?¡± she whispered. Ryan nodded, his eyes narrowing. ¡°That¡¯s her.¡±Without another word, they moved quickly toward the sound.


    As they reached the entrance, Luca held up a hand, signaling them to stop. ¡°Wait. We don¡¯t know how many people are inside. We need to be smart about this.¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw clenched. ¡°We don¡¯t have time. Iris is in there.¡±


    Before Luca could respond, the door creaked open, and a figure stepped out into the darkness. Ivy¡¯s breath caught in her throat as she saw the man standing before them, a cruel smile spreading across his face.


    ¡°Looking for someone?¡± he sneered. Ryan tensed, ready to fight, but the man raised a hand, his smile widening.¡±You¡¯re toote,¡± he said softly. ¡°She¡¯s already gone.¡±Ivy¡¯s heart dropped as the man¡¯s words sank in.


    Ryan lunged forward, but the man disappeared into the shadows, leaving them standing in the cold, empty night.


    Luca cursed under his breath. ¡°Damn it! He knew we wereing.¡±Ryan punched the wall in frustration.


    ¡°Where did they take her?¡±Ivy stood frozen, her mind racing. They had been so close-so close to finding Iris, and now she was gone again. Her hands trembled as she whispered, ¡°We¡¯re going to find her. We have to.¡±


    But deep down, a sinking feeling told her that this was only the beginning of their fight to bring Iris back. And time was running out.

 Chapter 127

    The tension in the room was palpable as all eyes turned to Luca, waiting for him toy out the n. His sharp eyes flickered to Ivy, who sat in the arms of Mrs. Jessica, her biological mother, still recovering from the emotional weight of thest few hours.


    Ivy¡¯s expression was a mix of uncertainty and fear, her fingers fidgeting with the fabric of her dress.¡±Ivy, listen carefully,¡± Luca began, his voice calm but firm.


    ¡°You¡¯ll call the guy from the number we traced. You need to act like you know him, like you¡¯ve met before. Make it sound like you¡¯re excited to see him again. He might not give in right away, but you have to be persistent.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Keep him hooked until he asks you to meet up. Once he does, we¡¯lle with you, and that¡¯s when we¡¯ll get a hold of him.¡±Ivy stared at him, wide-eyed. ¡°Are you sure this will work?¡±Luca gave her a reassuring nod. ¡°I know it¡¯s risky, but it¡¯s our best shot. This guy is connected to the people who have Iris. If we can make him believe that you¡¯re someone he¡¯s interested in, we can use that to our advantage.¡±


    Ryan crossed his arms, ncing between Ivy and Luca. ¡°But how sure are we that this n will actually work? What if he figures out it¡¯s a trap?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a gamble,¡± Luca admitted, his eyes narrowing in thought. ¡°But it¡¯s one worth taking. We¡¯ve got nothing else to go on right now. We have to try.¡±Ivy bit her lip, her heart racing. She wasn¡¯t used to this kind of deception, but the stakes were too high to back out now. Iris¡¯s life was hanging in the bnce. She turned to Luca, her voice uncertain.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like this¡­ but if you think it¡¯ll work, I¡¯ll do it.¡±Luca¡¯s eyes softened as he moved closer to her. He ced a reassuring hand on her shoulder, his voice steady. ¡°I promise I¡¯ll be right there with you. Nothing will go wrong. We¡¯ll get him, and we¡¯ll find Iris.


    ¡°Mrs. Jessica tightened her grip on Ivy¡¯s hand, her face filled with concern. ¡°Ivy, are you sure you want to do this? It¡¯s dangerous.¡±Ivy hesitated, looking at her mother before nodding slowly. ¡°I don¡¯t have a choice. If this is what it takes to find Iris, then I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    As Ivy prepared herself mentally, Ryan¡¯s stern voice cut through the air. ¡°Before you go back home, Ivy, you need to act like everything is normal. Don¡¯t raise any suspicion. You¡¯ll have to act cool with Mrs. Rose like nothing¡¯s wrong.¡±Ivy¡¯s face hardened, her voice filled with bitterness. ¡°She¡¯s not my mother.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ryan replied softly, ¡°but just for now, you need to y along. Please.¡±Ivy clenched her fists, her eyes zing with resentment.


    ¡°Do I have to go back to that house?¡±Luca and Ryan exchanged nces before responding in unison, their voices firm. ¡°Yes.¡±Ivy sighed, frustrationcing her tone. ¡°Alright, fine. I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    Meanwhile, in Mr. Kendrick¡¯s old office, Be satfortably behind therge oak desk, her fingers tapping rhythmically against the armrests of the leather chair.


    The office felt cold and impersonal despite the power she had recently seized. She smirked as she received a phone call, listening carefully as one of her informants reported seeing Ryan, Luca, and Ivy leaving Luca¡¯s house together.


    Her smile faded as she hung up without saying a word, her mind racing. ¡°What could they possibly be doing together?¡± she muttered under her breath. ¡°Could Ryan have regained his memory?¡±


    Be¡¯s gaze sharpened as she leaned back in the chair, her fingers tapping in irritation. ¡°If he remembers everything, then I¡¯m running out of time.¡±Her eyes glinted with malevolent amusement as an idea began to form.


    ¡°I think it¡¯s time to cause a little distraction, give myself the space I need to finish what I started.¡±


    She chuckled darkly, spinning the chair in slow circles. The rebranding of Kendrick Enterprises had been a masterstroke of deception.


    Everyone believed thepany was heading toward modernization and innovation, but Be knew better. It was nothing more than a smokescreen, a way to keep Ryan, Luca, and Ivy preupied while she and her brother siphoned thepany¡¯s assets.


    ¡°Oh, Be, you¡¯re so clever,¡± she purred to herself, twirling the chair again. ¡°The rebranding, the fake meetings, it¡¯s all been to divert attention.


    While they¡¯re busy with their little dramas, I¡¯m emptying the ounts right under their noses.¡±She stopped spinning and burst into a fit ofughter, the sound echoing off the walls of the office. ¡°Let them y their little games. By the time they realize what¡¯s happening, Kendrick Enterprises will be a hollow shell.


    And anyone who tries to outsmart me will end up¡­ well, let¡¯s just say they won¡¯t be around to see my victory.¡±Be leaned forward, her fingers curling into tight fists as her eyes gleamed with cold determination.


    ¡°This ends soon. And when it does, I¡¯ll be the only one left standing.¡±Back at Luca¡¯s ce, Ivy held her phone tightly, staring at the number on the screen. Her pulse quickened as she prepared to dial. Ryan stood nearby, watching her with an intensity that matched the gravity of the situation.


    ¡°You ready for this?¡± Ryan asked his voice a mixture of concern and support. Ivy nodded, swallowing her nerves. ¡°I have to be.¡±Luca stepped closer, his voice calm but encouraging.


    ¡°Remember, keep it natural. Don¡¯t push too hard at first. Make him think you¡¯re interested, that you two have some unfinished business. Once he¡¯s hooked, that¡¯s when we make our move.¡±Ivy nodded, her heart pounding in her chest. She pressed the call button, her hands trembling slightly as the phone began to ring.


    The others watched in silence, tension thick in the air as they waited for the man on the other end to pick up.¡±Hello?¡± A deep, rough voice answered, filled with suspicion.


    Ivy quickly put on her most charming voice.


    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s me. Remember? We met a while ago. I¡¯ve been thinking about you.¡±There was a pause on the other end. ¡°Who is this?¡±Ivy¡¯s heart raced, but she kept her voice smooth. ¡°Ohe on, don¡¯t y dumb. We had a good time together. You didn¡¯t think I¡¯d forget, did you?¡±


    Another silence followed, but this time the man seemed to soften. ¡°Oh¡­ yeah. Yeah, I remember. You were¡­ something else.¡±


    Ivy forced a lightugh, even though her stomach was churning. ¡°I¡¯ve been dying to see you again. Are you free anytime soon?¡±The man hesitated.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­ things have been a bit crazy. Maybe.¡±Ivy¡¯s pulse quickened. She had to keep him interested. ¡°I get it. But I¡¯ve been thinking about ourst time together. I can¡¯t stop. You left quite the impression.¡±


    The man chuckled darkly, clearly ttered. ¡°Yeah? You¡¯re making me think I should clear my schedule.¡±Ivy shot a nce at Luca, who nodded approvingly. ¡°You should. I¡¯d love to catch up, maybe do more than just talk.¡±The man¡¯s voice dropped, filled with suggestive undertones.


    ¡°You¡¯re something else, aren¡¯t you? Alright, I¡¯ll make time. How about tomorrow night? Same ce asst time?¡±Ivy¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She had him.¡±Perfect,¡± she purred, though her hands were mmy with nerves. ¡°I¡¯ll see you then.¡±


    They exchanged a few more pleasantries before hanging up, and Ivy finally let out the breath she had been holding. The room was filled with a mixture of relief and tension.


    ¡°You did great,¡± Luca said softly, cing a hand on her shoulder. ¡°Now we wait until tomorrow night.¡±Ryan¡¯s face was still etched with concern. ¡°Are you sure about this, Luca? This guy could be dangerous. We¡¯re putting Ivy at risk.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be there the whole time,¡± Luca assured him. ¡°I won¡¯t let anything happen to her. We just need to get close enough to him so we can get answers.¡±Mrs. Jessica, who had been watching quietly from the corner, finally spoke up. ¡°Just be careful. I don¡¯t want to lose either of my daughters.


    ¡°Ivy looked at her mother, her expression softening. ¡°We¡¯ll be careful. I promise.¡±The following day passed in a blur of anticipation and tension. Ivy prepared herself for the meeting, her nerves on edge as the time drew closer.


    Luca was already setting up surveince, making sure that everything was in ce for the operation. Ryan, though reluctant, couldn¡¯t help but admire Ivy¡¯s courage. By the time the evening rolled around, Ivy was ready.


    Dressed in a sleek ck dress, she looked every bit the part of someone who could charm a dangerous man. Luca gave her a reassuring smile as they drove to the meeting spot, his presence calming her nerves.¡±I¡¯ll be watching the whole time,¡± he reminded her. ¡±


    The second things go south, we pull you out. You¡¯re not alone in this.¡±Ivy nodded, her fingers clenching tightly in herp. ¡°I know.¡±They pulled up to the location-a dimly lit club on the outskirts of town. Ivy stepped out of the car, her heart racing as she entered the building.

 Chapter 128

    Mr. Kendrick sat in his dimly lit mansion, the once lively space now a suffocating prison of silence. His istion had deepened over the past few weeks, with fewer visits from Ryan and even less from the rest of his family.


    The onlypany he had was the television flickering in front of him, though he wasn¡¯t paying attention. His mind was upied with regrets, secrets, and the feeling of being slowly cut off from his own life.


    As he sat there, his phone, which had been dormant for hours, suddenly buzzed with a notification.


    At first, Mr. Kendrick ignored it, assuming it was another meaningless email or social media alert. However, the buzzing didn¡¯t stop.


    One notification became two, then three, then a flurry of alerts, each arriving faster than thest. His hand hovered over the phone for a moment.


    Curiosity gnawed at him. What could be happening? With a shaking hand, he finally picked up the phone and unlocked it. What he saw made his heart skip a beat.


    His hands trembled violently, his breath bing shallow as he scrolled through message after message, each one more rming than thest.


    His grip on the phone ckened, and he fumbled it, the device slipping from his hands andnding on the floor with a loud thud.


    Panic surged through him as he reached down, but the phone seemed impossibly far away. He couldn¡¯t believe what he had just seen.


    Desperately, he pressed the speed dial for Ryan, his son, his only hope. The phone rang, but when Ryan answered, Mr. Kendrick¡¯s voice failed him.


    His throat constricted, and all that came out were weak, shuttering gasps. His hands shook uncontrobly, his mind in chaos.¡±Dad? Dad, can you hear me? What¡¯s wrong?¡± Ryan¡¯s voice was filled with rm on the other end. But Mr. Kendrick couldn¡¯t respond.


    His words refused to form, and the phone slipped from his grasp, ttering onto the hardwood floor.¡±Dad? Dad! Hello! Can you hear me?¡±Ryan¡¯s voice echoed in the silent room, but Mr. Kendrick could only watch in horror as the phoney out of reach, the call still connected.


    He could hear Ryan¡¯s frantic voice, but he was powerless to respond.


    In an instant, Ryan was up from his desk, rushing to grab his car keys. Be, who was sitting nearby at the dining table, saw his sudden movements and called out, ¡°Ryan, what¡¯s going on?¡±He barely spared her a nce as he shouted, ¡°It¡¯s Dad! He called me, but something was wrong. He couldn¡¯t talk. I have to go to the house now.¡±Be¡¯s eyes widened in mock concern. ¡°Oh my God, Ryan! Let mee with you.¡±


    Ryan shook his head, already halfway out the door. ¡°No, don¡¯t worry, honey. Just get ready for work and head there. I¡¯ll call you when I know more. I need to get to him fast.¡±As soon as the front door mmed shut, Be¡¯s expression changed.


    The faux concern disappeared, reced with a sly, satisfied smile. She sauntered around the room, humming to herself, before breaking into a slow, exaggerated twirl.


    Her body moved awkwardly in the so-called ¡®dance,¡¯ but in her head, she was celebrating.¡±I told you, Mr. Kendrick,¡± Be muttered to herself, dancing with exaggerated delight.


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯tst long once I got my hands on things.¡±She giggled softly, twirling around once more, her eyes alight with the prospect of finally cementing her control over thepany and the family¡¯s fortune.


    As she continued her little celebration, her phone buzzed on the table, pulling her out of her reverie. It was a message from her brother, informing her that the next phase of their n was about to begin.


    Everything was falling into ce. Meanwhile, Ryan was speeding through the city streets, his heart racing. Something was deeply wrong-he could feel it. His father wasn¡¯t a man who panicked easily, and for him to call without being able to speak¡­ It gnawed at Ryan¡¯s gut.


    The man he had once looked up to, strong and capable, was now weak, a shadow of his former self. Without wasting a moment, Ryan quickly dialed Ivy¡¯s number. She picked up after the second ring.


    ¡°Ryan? What¡¯s going on?¡± Ivy¡¯s voice was filled with concern.¡±It¡¯s Dad. He called me, but something¡¯s seriously wrong. He couldn¡¯t speak. I¡¯m heading to the house now. I need you to meet me there.¡±Ivy hesitated. ¡°Do you think he¡¯s hurt?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Just get there, Ivy. We need to figure this out.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m on my way.¡±As soon as Ivy hung up, Ryan called Luca next. ¡°Luca, I need you to meet me at my dad¡¯s ce. I think something¡¯s seriously wrong. It could be connected to everything we¡¯ve been uncovering about Be and her schemes.¡±Luca¡¯s voice was steady and calm. ¡°I¡¯m on it. I¡¯ll meet you there in fifteen.¡±


    Finally, Ryan took a deep breath before calling his mother. Despite everything, she needed to know.¡±Ryan, what is it? I was in the middle of something,¡± Mrs. Rose¡¯s voice sounded irritated as if she were busy with something far more important.¡±It¡¯s Dad,¡±


    Ryan said, his voice clipped. ¡°He called, but he couldn¡¯t speak. Something¡¯s seriously wrong. I¡¯m heading to the house now, and I think you should too.¡±Mrs. Rose hesitated on the other end of the line.


    ¡°Oh¡­ I see. Well, I suppose I should-¡± Now, Mom,¡± Ryan snapped, unable to hide his frustration. ¡°This is serious.¡±


    ¡°Fine,¡± she replied, her voice filled with reluctance. ¡°I¡¯ll be there shortly.¡±Ryan hung up, pressing his foot harder on the gas as he navigated through traffic.


    His mind raced as he thought about all the things that had been happening recently. Be¡¯s sudden moves in thepany, his father¡¯s istion, and now this. What was going on? What was the connection? He had to get to the bottom of it.


    As Ryan pulled up to the mansion, the imposing gates creaked open slowly, a chilling reminder of the once-grand estate that now felt more like a tomb. He rushed inside, his pulse racing, calling out for his father.¡±Dad! Dad, where are you?¡±


    There was no response. Ryan¡¯s footsteps echoed through the empty hallways as he rushed to his father¡¯s study.


    When he found Mr. Kendrick, he was slumped in his chair, pale and trembling, his phone still lying on the floor.¡±Dad!¡±


    Ryan rushed to his side, shaking him gently. ¡°Dad, can you hear me?¡±Mr. Kendrick¡¯s eyes flickered open, his breathing shallow andbored. ¡°Ryan¡­ you have to¡­ stop her¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop who? Be?¡± Ryan¡¯s voice was urgent, but he struggled to keep his panic under control. Mr. Kendrick¡¯s hand weakly gestured toward the phone on the floor. ¡°She¡¯s¡­ destroying everything¡­ It¡¯s¡­ it¡¯s all falling apart.¡±


    Ryan quickly picked up the phone and nced at the messages his father had been bombarded with earlier. His heart sank as he saw the emails and alerts about massive financial transfers, suspicious transactions draining thepany¡¯s ounts, and encrypted messages that hinted at Be¡¯s role in orchestrating the copse.


    ¡°Be¡¯s behind all of this,¡± Ryan muttered under his breath, his jaw clenched. ¡°I knew she was up to something, but this¡­ this is worse than I thought.¡±


    Mr. Kendrick grabbed Ryan¡¯s wrist, his grip surprisingly strong despite his frail state. ¡°You have to stop her, Ryan¡­ before it¡¯s toote. She¡­ she¡¯s going to ruin everything.¡±Ryan nodded, determination hardening in his chest.


    ¡°I will, Dad. I¡¯ll stop her.¡±Just as Ryan was about to help his father to his feet, Ivy and Luca burst into the room, their faces filled with concern.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    ¡°Ryan! What¡¯s going on?¡± Ivy asked, rushing to their father¡¯s side.¡±It¡¯s Be,¡± Ryan said, his voice steely. ¡°She¡¯s been sabotaging thepany from the inside. I think she¡¯s about to pull off something huge. We need to act fast.¡±


    Luca¡¯s face darkened. ¡°I knew something was off. What¡¯s the n?¡±Ryan nced down at his father, then back to Luca and Ivy. ¡°We¡¯re going to confront Be. Right now. We can¡¯t give her any more time.¡±Just as they were about to leave the room, Mr. Kendrick¡¯s phone buzzed again.


    Ryan nced at it, and his eyes widened in disbelief. It was another message-this time from Be herself.


    The message read: I hope you¡¯re enjoying the show. It¡¯s almost over. Say goodbye to Kendrick Enterprises. Ryan¡¯s hands clenched into fists as he stared at the screen.¡±It¡¯s a trap,¡± he muttered.


    But before anyone could respond, the lights in the mansion flickered ominously. A loud crash sounded from the other side of the house, followed by the unmistakable sound of ss shattering.


    Luca tensed, his instincts kicking in. ¡°We¡¯re not alone.¡±

 Chapter 129

    Ryan rushed his father into the emergency room, barely taking a moment to breathe as the doctors immediately attended to Mr. Kendrick. His father was pale, weak, and barely conscious, and the sight of him in that condition twisted Ryan¡¯s stomach into knots.


    He paced the waiting room, checking his phone for updates, and trying to keep a level head despite the whirlwind of emotions crashing over him. Momentster, his phone rang-it was his mother, Mrs. Rose, and Ivy.


    ¡°Ryan, where are you? We can¡¯t find you or Dad!¡± Mrs. Rose¡¯s voice sounded frantic. Ryan clenched his jaw. He knew this would being.


    ¡°I took him to another hospital, Mom. Dr. Parker¡¯s hospital.


    ¡°There was silence on the other end of the line, followed by a sharp intake of breath from Mrs. Rose. ¡°Dr. Parker¡¯s hospital? Why would you take him there, Ryan?¡±Ryan rubbed the back of his neck, trying to keep calm.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know he was our family doctor, Mom. I¡¯m still¡­ struggling with some of my memory, remember?¡±Mrs. Rose let out a soft ¡°oh¡± as the realization hit her.


    ¡°Right¡­ I forgot about that. We¡¯ll be there soon.¡±Ryan gave them the address and, after hanging up the phone, continued his pacing. He hadn¡¯t expected to bring his father here, of all ces.


    Dr. Parker¡¯s hospital had been a point of contention in their family for years, especially with his mother¡¯s affair. But now, it was the closest, and he wasn¡¯t about to risk waiting any longer just to satisfy his mother¡¯s feelings.


    When Mrs. Rose and Ivy finally arrived, Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes went wide with horror as she saw her husband¡¯s condition. She rushed to Mr. Kendrick¡¯s side, her hands trembling as she touched his frail form.¡±Charles¡­¡± Her voice broke, tears streaming down her face as she held his hand.


    ¡°What happened to you?¡±Ryan stood by the door, watching his mother cry over the man who had once been the head of their family. It was hard to see his father like this, but the sight of his mother¡¯s tears stirred something in him-something close to anger.


    Mrs. Rose turned to Ryan, wiping her tears as best as she could, though they still flowed freely. ¡°Why did you bring him here, Ryan? You should have taken him somewhere else, anywhere but here!¡±


    ¡°I told you, Mom, I didn¡¯t know this was Dr. Parker¡¯s hospital,¡± Ryan replied, trying to keep his voice calm. ¡°I didn¡¯t do this on purpose.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s gaze softened slightly as she realized Ryan still hadn¡¯t regained all of his memories.


    She looked over to Ivy, her eyes red from crying. ¡°Ivy, how are you holding up?¡±Ivy, who had been standing quietly by the side, arms crossed, gave her mother a cold stare. ¡°How do you think I¡¯m holding up?¡± she replied, her tone icy.


    ¡°This whole thing is a disaster.¡±Mrs. Rose flinched slightly at Ivy¡¯s coldness but didn¡¯t say anything further. Instead, she turned her attention back to her husband, holding his hand tightly as tears continued to fall from her eyes. She stroked his hair softly, whispering to him, though he was too weak to respond.


    Ivy stood off to the side, disgusted by her mother¡¯s act. She didn¡¯t say it out loud, but her expression made it clear-she wasn¡¯t buying her mother¡¯s crocodile tears. Ryan¡¯s thoughts were interrupted by the sound of footsteps approaching.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Luca entered the room, his eyes scanning the tense scene. He nodded at Ryan in acknowledgment before ncing toward Ivy, who gave him a small, forced smile.¡±How¡¯s Mr. Kendrick doing?¡± Luca asked quietly, his voice measured as he kept his distance.¡±Not good,¡± Ryan replied, running a hand through his hair.


    ¡°They¡¯re still running tests. I¡¯m waiting for the doctor.¡±Luca frowned. ¡°I can¡¯t believe this is happening. And Be¡¯s out there¡­ God knows what she¡¯s nning next.¡±Ryan clenched his fists at the mention of Be.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to deal with her. I don¡¯t care what it takes, Luca.¡±Luca nodded, his expression hardening. ¡°We¡¯ll take her down, Ryan. One way or another.¡±


    Just then, a doctor appeared in the doorway, ncing around the room before locking eyes with Ryan.¡± Mr. Kendrick?¡± the doctor called. Ryan stepped forward, his heart pounding in his chest.


    ¡°That¡¯s me.¡±The doctor gestured toward his office. ¡°Can we speak privately for a moment?¡±Ivy immediately stepped forward. ¡°I¡¯ming too.¡±Mrs. Rose, still by her husband¡¯s side, looked up, her eyes wide with concern. ¡°I¡¯ming as well.¡±Ryan shook his head firmly.


    ¡°Mom, stay here with Dad. We¡¯ll be back soon.¡±Mrs. Rose opened her mouth to protest, but Ryan held up his hand, his tone firm. ¡°Please, Mom. Stay with Dad. I need you to keep an eye on him.¡±


    Reluctantly, Mrs. Rose nodded, wiping away her tears as Ryan and Ivy followed the doctor down the hall and into his office.


    As soon as the door closed behind them, the atmosphere shifted to something much more serious. The doctor motioned for them to sit, but Ryan and Ivy both remained standing, their expressions tense.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on, doctor?¡± Ivy demanded, her arms crossed over her chest. The doctor sighed, ncing at the file in his hands. ¡°Your father¡¯s condition is serious. He¡¯s stable for now, but he¡¯s suffered significant stress, both physically and mentally. His heart is under immense strain.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s heart sank as the doctor¡¯s words settled in. ¡°What can be done?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re doing everything we can to stabilize him, but given his age and the state of his health, he¡¯s in a very delicate condition. Any additional stress could be dangerous.¡±Ivy narrowed her eyes. ¡°So what are you saying? Is he going to be okay, or not?¡±


    The doctor hesitated, his expression somber. ¡°It¡¯s too soon to say for certain. We¡¯ll have to monitor him closely over the next few days. But I need to stress that any further emotional or physical strain could lead to a more severe event. He needs rest and calm.¡±Ryan exchanged a worried nce with Ivy.


    Be¡¯s schemes were thest thing their father needed right now, but there was no avoiding it. They couldn¡¯t let her destroy thepany, and they couldn¡¯t let her manipte their family any further. But could they risk pushing their father¡¯s fragile health?


    Ivy, clearly frustrated, pressed on. ¡°We¡¯re not going to just sit around while Be takes everything from us. There has to be something we can do without stressing out Dad.¡±


    Ryan nodded in agreement. ¡°We¡¯ll have to find a way to keep this from him for now. Deal with Be quietly.¡±The doctor raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Whatever you do, I would advise you to keep him out of it. Any news of upheaval could send him into another episode, and that might be something he doesn¡¯t recover from.¡±Ryan swallowed hard, his mind racing.


    ¡°Thank you, doctor. We¡¯ll keep that in mind.¡±As they left the office, Ivy turned to Ryan, her expression determined.


    ¡°We need to deal with Be. Now. She¡¯s already torn this family apart, and Dad¡­ he can¡¯t handle any more of this.¡±Ryan nodded, his jaw clenched.


    ¡°We will, Ivy. But we have to be smart about it. No more rushing in without a n.¡±Ivy rolled her eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t start lecturing me, Ryan. I know how serious this is. I¡¯ve been dealing with Be¡¯s crap for weeks now.¡±Ryan gave her a hard look.


    ¡°I¡¯m not lecturing you. I just want us to be on the same page. Be¡¯s dangerous, and if we¡¯re not careful, she¡¯ll win.¡±Ivy sighed, running a hand through her hair. ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll follow your lead. But we need to move fast.¡±


    As they re-entered their father¡¯s room, Mrs. Rose was still by his side, her face streaked with tears. She looked up at them as they entered, her eyes filled with worry.¡±Well?¡± Mrs. Rose asked, her voice shaky. Ryan forced a small smile.


    ¡°He¡¯s stable for now, but he needs rest. We¡¯ll know more in the next few days.¡±Mrs. Rose let out a shaky breath of relief and turned her attention back to Mr. Kendrick. She held his hand tightly, her tears falling silently.


    Ivy leaned toward Ryan, her voice a low whisper. ¡°What are we going to do about Be?¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes darkened, his mind already working on a n.


    ¡°We¡¯re going to end this. Once and for all.¡±Just as they were about to leave, Luca returned to the room, his expression tense. ¡°Ryan, I¡¯ve been doing some digging.


    There¡¯s something you need to see.¡±Ryan exchanged a nce with Ivy before following Luca out of the room.


    They stepped into the hallway, and Luca handed Ryan his phone. Ryan¡¯s eyes widened as he scrolled through the information Luca had uncovered. It was worse than they had imagined.


    ¡°She¡¯s moving fast,¡± Luca said quietly. ¡°If we don¡¯t act now, there won¡¯t be anything left of Kendrick Enterprises.¡±Ryan¡¯s heart pounded in his chest. ¡°We need to confront her.


    Now.¡±Ivy, standing nearby, nodded in agreement. ¡°Let¡¯s finish this.¡±Ryan clenched his fists, his resolve hardening. It was time to face Be once and for all, but he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that the final confrontation

 Chapter 130

    Mrs. Rose nced over her shoulder, ensuring Ryan and Ivy had left the room with the doctor. Her husbandy unconscious in the hospital bed, his breathing shallow and his once-powerful frame now frail.


    Her heart pounded, but not out of concern for his well-being. It was fear-fear of being discovered. Quickly, she pulled out her phone and dialed Parker¡¯s number. Her hand shook slightly as she waited for him to pick up. Finally, after a few rings, his deep voice came through the line.


    ¡°Rose,¡± Parker said calmly, ¡°what¡¯s going on?¡±Mrs. Rose nced nervously at her unconscious husband, lowering her voice to a whisper. ¡°They¡¯re running tests on Ken. I¡¯m scared, Parker. What if they find the substance? What if they realize what I¡¯ve been doing?¡±


    Parker¡¯s voice remained steady, soothing her panic. ¡°Rx, Rose. I told you before that the substance is untraceable. It¡¯s designed to mimic natural deterioration, like stress and aging. They won¡¯t find anything suspicious unless someone knows exactly what to look for.¡±


    ¡°But¡­ Ryan¡¯s already suspicious,¡± she muttered, casting another nce at the door. ¡°And Ivy is keeping an eye on everything. They don¡¯t trust me, Parker. What if they insist on taking Ken somewhere else?¡±


    Parker¡¯s tone turned firm. ¡°Don¡¯t push them to bring him to my hospital, Rose. That¡¯ll only make them more suspicious. Let them run their tests here and stay by Ken¡¯s side. Support them. y the grieving wife. They¡¯ll never suspect you.¡±


    Mrs. Rose closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. She needed to stay calm and y her part. ¡°You¡¯re right¡­ you¡¯re right. I¡¯ll just follow their lead.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Parker replied. ¡°And remember, we were both together when this happened. You weren¡¯t even in the house when he had the attack, so there¡¯s no way they can trace it back to you.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Rose whispered, ¡°I got a call from Ryan saying Ken had copsed, and I rushed here. That¡¯s all they know.¡±Parker¡¯s voice softened slightly.


    ¡°Everything¡¯s under control, Rose. Just keep your cool.¡±Mrs. Rose nodded, even though he couldn¡¯t see her. ¡°I¡¯ll try. I just can¡¯t have them finding out about¡­ us. Or what we¡¯ve been doing.¡±


    ¡°They won¡¯t,¡± Parker reassured her. ¡°Now go. Take care of your husband. I¡¯ll handle the rest.¡±She ended the call and slipped the phone back into her purse, her pulse gradually slowing. She turned back to her husband and gently took his hand, staring at his pale face.


    A small part of her felt guilty for what she had done-but it was toote to turn back now. She had too much to lose, and Parker had promised her that everything would go ording to n.


    Just as she settled back in her chair, Ryan and Ivy re-entered the room, their expressions tense butposed. The doctor had exined to them that Mr. Kendrick¡¯s blood pressure was dangerously high and that he had suffered from extreme stress.


    Other than that, they hadn¡¯t found anything out of the ordinary.¡±He needs a lot of rest,¡± the doctor had said. ¡°Any further strain could lead to something far worse.¡±Ryan¡¯s concern was evident on his face as he listened to the diagnosis.


    After the meeting, he insisted on going home to investigate what could have caused his father¡¯s sudden copse. Ivy agreed to stay back at the hospital, along with Luca, to watch over their father.


    Now, Mrs. Rose sat quietly beside her unconscious husband, holding his hand while pretending to be the devoted wife. She nced at Ryan and Ivy, who both stood nearby, their faces etched with worry.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Ryan¡¯s frown deepened as he considered what could have triggered his father¡¯s attack.¡±I¡¯m going to head home,¡± Ryan finally said, his voice filled with resolve. ¡°I need to figure out what caused this.


    ¡°Ivy, who had been pacing near the window, stopped and turned toward him. ¡°You sure that¡¯s a good idea? Shouldn¡¯t we all just stay here and wait?¡±Ryan shook his head. ¡°No, there¡¯s something off about this. Dad¡¯s never had an episode like this before. I need to see if there¡¯s anything at home that could exin it.¡±


    Ivy didn¡¯t argue further, sensing her brother¡¯s determination. ¡°Fine, but I¡¯m staying here with Luca. Someone needs to keep an eye on Dad.¡±Ryan gave her a grateful nod before turning to Mrs. Rose.


    ¡°Mom, do you need anything while I¡¯m out?¡±Mrs. Rose blinked, momentarily thrown by the question. She quicklyposed herself, shaking her head.


    ¡°No, Ryan. I¡¯ll stay here with your father.¡±Ryan looked at his mother for a moment as if trying to read something in her expression but said nothing more. He nodded and left the room, leaving Ivy, Mrs. Rose, and Luca behind.


    Outside the room, Ivy stood with Luca, her arms crossed tightly over her chest. Her mind was racing. Something about this whole situation didn¡¯t sit right with her. She hated hospitals and feeling so helpless while her fathery unconscious in the bed.


    And worst of all, she didn¡¯t trust her mother. Mrs. Rose had always been too maniptive, too secretive for Ivy to truly believe her tears now.


    Luca leaned against the wall, watching Ivy closely. He knew her well enough to see that she was struggling with something. ¡°You okay?¡± he asked quietly.


    Ivy nced at him, her expression unreadable. ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± she admitted. ¡°Everything feels wrong. Like there¡¯s more going on than what we¡¯re seeing.¡±Luca straightened up, his eyes narrowing slightly.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±Ivy sighed, running a hand through her hair. ¡°I just¡­ I don¡¯t trust her. Mom¡¯s always ying a game, and I can¡¯t shake the feeling that she¡¯s involved in all of this somehow.¡±Luca hesitated for a moment before speaking.


    ¡°You think she had something to do with your father¡¯s copse?¡±Ivy shrugged, her gaze distant. ¡°I don¡¯t know. Maybe. She¡¯s been acting weird for months now.


    And with everything that¡¯s happened with Be and thepany¡­ it just feels like too much of a coincidence.¡±Luca nodded slowly, considering her words.


    ¡°So what do you want to do about it?¡±Ivy turned to face him fully, her eyes determined. ¡°I want to find out the truth. If she¡¯s involved, I want proof.¡±


    Luca¡¯s expression grew serious. ¡°That¡¯s going to be risky, Ivy. If she is involved, she won¡¯t go down without a fight.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ivy replied, her voice steady. ¡°But I can¡¯t just sit around and do nothing. My father¡¯s life is at stake.¡±Luca nodded, his loyalty to Ivy evident in his eyes. ¡°I¡¯m with you.


    Whatever you need.¡±Ivy offered him a small, appreciative smile. ¡°Thank you. We¡¯ll have to be careful, though. We can¡¯t let Ryan know what we¡¯re doing. Not yet, anyway.¡±Luca raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°You sure about that? Ryan¡¯s usually pretty sharp. He might be able to help.¡±Ivy shook her head. ¡°No, he¡¯s too emotional right now. He won¡¯t think clearly, and I don¡¯t want to drag him into this unless we have solid proof.¡±


    Luca nodded in agreement. ¡°Okay. So what¡¯s the n?¡±Ivy nced over her shoulder, making sure Mrs. Rose wasn¡¯t paying attention before lowering her voice. ¡°We need to meet with that man I told you about.


    The one who has connections inside thepany. He might have information about what¡¯s going on behind the scenes.¡±Luca¡¯s eyes widened slightly. ¡°You think he knows something about your mom?¡±Ivy nodded.


    ¡°It¡¯s possible. He¡¯s been watching thepany for a while now, and if anyone has dirt on her, it¡¯s him.¡±Luca frowned, a hint of concern in his voice. ¡°This could get dangerous, Ivy. Are you sure you¡¯re ready for this?¡±Ivy¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°I have to be. For my father.¡±


    Luca hesitated for a moment, then nodded. ¡°Okay. Let¡¯s set up the meeting. The sooner, the better.¡±Just then, Mrs. Rose stepped out of the room, her eyes still red from crying. She nced between Ivy and Luca, her expression wary. ¡°What are you two talking about?¡±Ivy quickly stered on a neutral expression, shrugging casually.


    ¡°Just making sure Luca¡¯s on board to stay with me while Ryan¡¯s gone. We¡¯ll be here for Dad.¡±Mrs. Rose nodded slowly, her gaze lingering on them for a moment before she sighed. ¡°Good. We need all the support we can get.¡±As Mrs. Rose turned and walked away, Luca leaned in closer to Ivy.


    ¡°We need to move fast.¡±Ivy nodded, her mind already racing ahead. She could feel it in her gut-something wasing. Something big. And whatever it was, it would change everything.


    Later that night, Luca and Ivy stood outside the hospital, the cool night air sharp against their skin. Luca nced at his phone, checking for updates on the man they were supposed to meet.


    Finally, a message came through.¡±He¡¯s here,¡± Luca said, his voice low. Ivy¡¯s heart raced as she nodded.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±They walked quickly toward the back of the hospital, where a shadowy figure stood waiting. As they approached, the man stepped forward, his face hidden beneath a hood.¡±You¡¯ve been asking a lot of questions,¡± the man said, his voice rough.

 Chapter 131

    Mrs. Rose sat in her chair, a wicked smile ying on her lips as she dialed Sarah¡¯s number. Her fingers tapped rhythmically against the armrest, the room dimly lit by the hospital bedsidemp.


    Ken¡¯s unconscious figurey in the background, but her mind was elsewhere-focused on the game she had been ying behind the scenes.


    As the phone rang, she already knew what she wanted to say. She had kept Sarah under her thumb for too long, and now it was time to either reel her back in or cut her loose entirely. The voice on the other end finally answered, a bit agitated. ¡°Hello? Mrs. Rose?¡±


    ¡°Hello, Sarah,¡± Mrs. Rose said smoothly, her voice dripping with false sweetness. ¡°What has been going on between my son and Betely? You promised me updates, but I haven¡¯t heard anything from you in a while. I hope everything is alright.¡±


    There was a brief pause, and then Sarah¡¯s voice took on a sharp edge. ¡°Well, that¡¯s because you haven¡¯t fulfilled your end of the deal. I think I¡¯ve had enough, Mrs. Rose. I¡¯m tired of sneaking around and spying for you. I want my bnce so I can leave. I¡¯m done.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s smile widened as she leaned back in her chair, fully expecting this moment. She had been preparing for Sarah to try and make a break for it, but she wasn¡¯t the kind of woman to let anyone walk away easily.


    ¡°Is that so?¡± she said, her voice still sickly sweet. ¡°Well, okay. Let me know when you n on leaving.¡±Sarah hesitated, clearly not expecting Mrs. Rose to agree so quickly.


    ¡°As soon as possible,¡± she replied, her tone almost cautious now.¡±Hold on,¡± Mrs. Rose said, cutting her off. She ended the call without another word and quickly opened her banking app, transferring the remaining bnce directly to Sarah¡¯s ount.


    With the payment made, she dialed Sarah again. This time, the phone barely rang once before Sarah picked up.¡±Thank you,¡± Sarah said immediately, though there was a dark undertone to her voice.


    ¡°But I¡¯m sorry to surprise you, Mrs. Rose. I¡¯m still going to expose you.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s smile didn¡¯t falter, even as Sarah¡¯s words sent a wave of irritation through her.


    ¡°Expose me? But you said you wanted to leave, Sarah. I just paid you off, as we agreed.¡±Sarah¡¯sugh was cold and hollow.


    ¡°Well, Mrs. Rose, it¡¯s like you always said-you can¡¯t trust anyone. I learned from the best, after all. You never know who¡¯s real.¡±


    The call ended abruptly, leaving Mrs. Rose staring at her phone with a mixture of frustration and amusement. She should have known better than to trust Sarah, but it didn¡¯t matter. She had already prepared for this oue.


    Secondster, her phone pinged with a notification. She nced down at the screen, her heart skipping a beat when she saw it. Message sent.


    ¡°Good,¡± she whispered to herself, her smile returning as she pocketed her phone. Sarah had made a grave mistake if she thought she could outsmart her.


    But she had to tread carefully. Ryan couldn¡¯t find out about her ns-not yet, at least.


    Meanwhile, Ryan stood in the middle of his father¡¯s study at the mansion, his mind still racing from the events at the hospital. He hade home hoping to find some sort of clue, some exnation for his father¡¯s sudden copse.


    But all he had found were old files, family photos, and endless frustration. Just as he was about to give up, his phone vibrated in his pocket. He pulled it out, his brows furrowing as he saw the message: Your mother has a lot to tell you. Ask her.


    Ryan stared at the screen, confusion and suspicion swirling in his mind. Who had sent this? And what could his mother possibly be hiding? His thumb hovered over the screen as a million thoughts raced through his head.


    The message had no name, no number, just those cryptic words. He tried to think back to thest time his mother had done something unusual. The way she had been soposed at the hospital despite their father¡¯s condition-it didn¡¯t sit right with him.


    His phone vibrated again, and this time, it was a call. The unknown number shed on the screen.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    ¡°Hello?¡± Ryan answered, his voice wary.¡±Ryan came to the voice from the other end. ¡°You don¡¯t know me well, but I¡¯ve been working for your mother for a while now. And there¡¯s something you need to know.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°What are you talking about?¡± ¡°You¡¯re not going to like this,¡± Sarah continued, her voice tense. ¡°Your mother¡¯s been manipting a lot of things-especially when ites to your father and Be.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s grip on the phone tightened. ¡°Manipting how?¡± You need to confront her, Ryan. Before it¡¯s toote.¡±Ryan¡¯s mind spun as he tried to process what the voice was saying. ¡°Why should I believe you?¡±Sarah¡¯s voice cracked with urgency.


    ¡°Because I¡¯m the only person willing to tell you the truth. She¡¯s dangerous, Ryan. You need to open your eyes.¡±The call ended just as quickly as it had started, leaving Ryan standing there in stunned silence, his heart pounding in his chest.


    If what the person on the call was saying was true, then his mother had been ying a dangerous game-one that could cost them all.


    Without wasting another moment, Ryan grabbed his jacket and rushed out of the study, his mind set on confronting Mrs. Rose. He couldn¡¯t let this slide, not if it meant his father¡¯s life was at stake. Back at the hospital, Mrs. Rose stood in the hallway, gazing out of the window with a serene expression on her face.


    She felt a strange sense of satisfaction, knowing she had Sarah in check and that everything was under control. Or so she thought.


    Just then, her phone buzzed again. She opened it to see an unfamiliar number shing across the screen. With a sigh, she answered the call.¡±Hello?¡± ¡°Mrs. Rose,¡± the voice on the other end said, slow and deliberate.


    ¡°You think you¡¯ve won, don¡¯t you?¡±Her heart skipped a beat as she recognized the voice. It was Sarah again.


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Mrs. Rose asked, her voice firm, though her pulse quickened.¡±You may have paid me off, but this game isn¡¯t over yet,¡± Sarah replied. ¡°I just sent Ryan a little message. He¡¯s on his way to see you now. You better be ready to answer some tough questions.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s grip on the phone tightened, her knuckles turning white. ¡°You did what?¡± she hissed, her calm facade slipping for the first time.¡±You heard me,¡± Sarah said, her tone smug. ¡°And there¡¯s more toe. Good luck exining yourself.¡±


    The call ended, leaving Mrs. Rose staring at her phone in shock. Her mind raced as she tried to figure out her next move. She hadn¡¯t anticipated Sarah being this bold, and now her son was about to confront her.


    With a deep breath, Mrs. Rose put on her mostposed expression and turned back toward her husband¡¯s room. She couldn¡¯t afford to lose control now. Not when everything she had worked for was hanging in the bnce.


    Just as she stepped into the room, she heard footsteps approaching behind her. She turned to see Ryan standing in the doorway, his face a mixture of confusion and anger. ¡°Mom,¡± Ryan said, his voice low and controlled, ¡°we need to talk.¡±Mrs. Rose met his gaze, her heart racing but her face perfectly calm.


    ¡°Of course, dear. What¡¯s on your mind?¡±Ryan stepped closer, his eyes narrowing as he searched her expression for any sign of the truth. ¡°I just got a message-someone said you¡¯ve got a lot to tell me. What¡¯s going on, Mom? What aren¡¯t you telling me?¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s mind raced, but she kept her expression neutral. ¡°Ryan, I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about. Who sent you this message?¡±Ryan pulled out his phone and showed her the screen.


    ¡°No number, just this. Is that true?¡±Mrs. Rose felt her stomach drop, but she didn¡¯t flinch. ¡°Ryan, that¡¯s absurd. The person is just trying to stir up trouble. You can¡¯t believe everything people say; they are just trying to tear our family apart.¡±


    ¡°Then exin it to me,¡± Ryan demanded, stepping even closer. ¡°Exin why they say something like that. And why I feel like I can¡¯t trust you anymore.¡±Mrs. Rose stared at her son, feeling the pressure of the moment closing in on her. She needed to find a way out, a way to control the narrative before everything unraveled.


    But before she could respond, the door to the room swung open again, and Ivy stepped inside, her expression as cold as ice. She had overheard the conversation, and now she stood beside Ryan, her arms crossed.


    ¡°Mom,¡± Ivy said, her voice sharp, ¡°it¡¯s time toe clean. We know something¡¯s going on, and we¡¯re not leaving until we get answers.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose looked between her two children, her carefully constructed world teetering on the edge of copse. She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came

 Chapter 132

    Ryan¡¯s hands trembled slightly as he slid the phone into his pocket, pacing in the hospital hallway. Luca stood next to him, concern etched across his face, while Ivy leaned against the wall, still on her call.


    Her conversation seemed calm, almost too calm for everything happening around them. Ryan kept ncing at Ivy, waiting for her to finish, but his thoughts were clouded with the disturbing messages he had been receiving ever since his father¡¯s sudden copse. The anonymous texts, the cryptic warnings-something wasn¡¯t right, and it was driving him mad.


    Finally, Ivy ended her call and looked at him, her usual cold demeanor softening a little. ¡°What¡¯s going on, Ryan? You look stressed.¡±Ryan hesitated for a moment, then took a deep breath.


    ¡°Luca, check the number that¡¯s been sending me those anonymous messages. I need to know where they¡¯reing from.


    They¡¯ve been popping up ever since all these problems started, and it can¡¯t be a coincidence.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Luca frowned but nodded in agreement. ¡°Send me the number, I¡¯ll trace it.¡± He pulled out his phone, ready to start.¡±Something¡¯s off,¡± Ryan continued, his voice tight with frustration.


    ¡°My dad¡¯s sudden copse, these weird messages, and now my mom¡¯s been acting strange.


    And Be-she¡¯s barely visited Dad at the hospital. It¡¯s like everything¡¯s spiraling out of control.¡±Ivy raised an eyebrow. ¡°Be hasn¡¯t visited Dad? Not even once?¡±


    ¡°Only on the first day,¡± Ryan muttered. ¡°Since then, she¡¯s been avoiding us. I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on, but I need answers.¡±


    As Ryan shared his concerns, Luca finished typing on his phone and looked up. ¡°Ryan, what did the doctors say about your dad? Any update?¡±Ryan shook his head, the memory of his father lying unconscious still fresh in his mind.


    ¡°They said it was a heart attack, but I can¡¯t shake the feeling that it wasn¡¯t just natural. The doctor couldn¡¯t exin why it happened so suddenly. Dad was healthy.¡±


    Luca¡¯s face darkened with concern. ¡°I¡¯ll look into the messages and try to trace the number. But in the meantime, you should go home and check the house. Maybe there¡¯s something there that could exin all of this. Your mom¡¯s been at the hospital with you, right?¡±


    Ryan nodded slowly. ¡°Yeah, she hasn¡¯t left Dad¡¯s side. I¡¯ll head home and see if I can find anything.¡±Luca pped him on the shoulder. ¡°Good. I¡¯ll call you as soon as I find something.¡±Ryan watched Luca walk off, his mind racing with questions.


    He didn¡¯t want to believe his mother could be involved in something so sinister, but the more he thought about it, the more things didn¡¯t add up. And Be¡­ she had been distant, distracted.


    He couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that she knew something he didn¡¯t. With a heavy sigh, Ryan headed for his car, determination filling his every step.


    When Ryan arrived home, the mansion felt eerily quiet. The grand halls, usually filled with life, now seemed cold and empty.


    The only sound was the soft echo of his footsteps against the marble floor as he moved through the house, searching for anything that could give him answers.


    He started with his father¡¯s study, the room where Mr. Kendrick had spent countless hours running the family business. Ryan rummaged through the papers on the desk, hoping to find something-anything-that could exin the sudden heart attack. But nothing stood out.


    The financial documents were in order, and there were no signs of stress or issues that could have triggered such a copse.


    Feeling frustrated, Ryan moved on to the rest of the house, checking every room for anything unusual. But as he searched, his hope began to fade.


    It seemed like there was nothing to find. That was until he reached his father¡¯s bedroom.


    Ryan was about to leave the room, thinking there was nothing there when he spotted something out of ce. His father¡¯s phoney on the floor near the bedside table, almost hidden beneath the bed.


    He hesitated for a moment, then bent down to pick it up. The phone wasn¡¯t locked, which struck him as odd-his father always kept his phone secured.


    Ryan¡¯s heart raced as he swiped through the phone, going through messages and emails.


    Everything seemed normal at first, but then he opened the photo gallery. What he saw made his blood run cold. There were photos of Be.


    But these weren¡¯t just ordinary photos. They were intimate, candid shots of her in the mansion, in ces she shouldn¡¯t have been.


    And there were messages exchanged between his father and Be, messages that hinted at something far deeper and more troubling than he had ever imagined.


    Ryan¡¯s hands shook as he continued scrolling. The photos and messages painted a picture of betrayal, of secrets kept from him.


    His father and Be had been closer than he ever knew. And now, with his father¡¯s sudden copse and Be¡¯s strange behavior, everything started to fall into ce.


    Had Be been involved in this somehow? Had she orchestrated his father¡¯s copse? Ryan¡¯s mind raced as he tried to process the shock of what he was seeing. But before he could fullyprehend it, his phone buzzed in his pocket.


    It was Luca.¡±Ryan,¡± Luca¡¯s voice was tense. ¡°I traced the number. The line is active, and it¡¯s being used from¡­ your mansion.¡±Ryan¡¯s grip tightened on his phone.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯sing from inside your house,¡± Luca repeated. ¡°And there¡¯s only one person who could be using it. Be.¡±Ryan¡¯s stomach churned. ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m positive,¡± Luca said firmly. ¡°Everything points to her.¡±Ryan stood frozen in the middle of his father¡¯s bedroom, his heart pounding in his chest.


    The evidence was mounting against Be, but he didn¡¯t want to believe it. He didn¡¯t want to believe that the woman he had once trusted, the woman who was supposed to be by his side, had been betraying him all along.


    But the facts were undeniable.¡±Ryan, what are you going to do?¡± Luca asked, concern in his voice.


    Ryan stared at the phone in his hand, the weight of the truth pressing down on him. ¡°I¡¯m going to confront her,¡± he said, his voice cold and determined. ¡°I need to know why she did this.¡±Luca paused for a moment before speaking.


    ¡°Be careful, Ryan. If Be¡¯s involved in this, she could be dangerous.¡±Ryan nodded, though Luca couldn¡¯t see him. ¡°I will. I¡¯ll call you after.¡±He ended the call and pocketed his phone, his mind set on one thing-confronting Be and getting to the bottom of whatever she had been hiding.


    Be was in the living room when Ryan found her, lounging on the couch with a ss of wine in hand. She looked up as he entered, a faint smile ying on her lips.¡±Ryan,¡± she said smoothly, her voice calm and collected.


    ¡°You¡¯re back. How¡¯s your father?¡±Ryan didn¡¯t answer her question. Instead, he crossed the room and stood in front of her, his eyes cold and hard. ¡°I know what you¡¯ve been doing, Be.¡±Be raised an eyebrow, her smile fading slightly. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°I found the messages,¡± Ryan said, his voice steady despite the anger building inside him. ¡°Between you and my father. And Luca traced the anonymous messages-they wereing from this house.


    From you.¡±For the first time, Be¡¯s calm facade cracked. Her eyes widened ever so slightly, and she set the ss of wine down on the table. ¡°Ryan, I-¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t lie to me,¡± Ryan snapped, cutting her off. ¡°I know everything. You¡¯ve been ying me, haven¡¯t you? You were close to my father, and now he¡¯s in the hospital. What did you do?¡±


    Be stood up, her expression shifting from surprise to something colder. ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything, Ryan,¡± she said slowly, her voice steady but with an edge of danger. ¡°Your father and I had an understanding. But I had nothing to do with his heart attack.¡±


    Ryan stepped closer, his anger boiling over. ¡°Then why have you been sending me those messages? Why have you been hiding everything from me?¡±Be¡¯s lips curled into a faint smile, her eyes glinting with something dark. ¡°Because, Ryan, you were never meant to find out.¡±Ryan¡¯s heart pounded in his chest.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±Be tilted her head slightly, her gaze unwavering. ¡°Your father and I had ns, Ryan. But now that he¡¯s out of the picture, things are going to change. You¡¯re not the only heir to the Kendrick empire anymore. I¡¯ve made sure of that.¡±Ryan¡¯s breath caught in his throat. ¡°What are you saying?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m saying that I¡¯ve secured my ce, Ryan,¡± Be said, her voice cool and calm. ¡°And there¡¯s nothing you can do about it.¡±Ryan¡¯s mind raced, his world spinning out of control as Be¡¯s words sank in.


    He had been blind, trusting the wrong person, and now everything was falling apart. But before he could respond, his phone buzzed again. He nced down and saw another anonymous message.


    This time, it read:You don¡¯t know the whole truth yet. Be careful who you trust. Ryan looked up at Be, his heart pounding, and realized that the nightmare was far from over.

 Chapter 133

    The air in the small, enclosed room was thick with tension. Ryan sat on the edge of a chair, his fingers running through his hair as his mind reyed everything that had happened in thest few hours. Ivy stood in front of them, pacing as she recounted her conversation with the mysterious man she had been speaking to.


    Luca leaned against the wall, arms crossed, his face etched with concern. Ivy finally stopped pacing and looked at both of them. ¡°It wasn¡¯t easy at first, but I convinced him. He was hesitant, but when I showed him those pictures and videos¡­ he couldn¡¯t resist.


    He thinks he¡¯s going to meet up with the girl from the photos-he thinks it¡¯s me.¡±Ryan blinked, brought back to the moment by Ivy¡¯s words. His mind had been elsewhere, haunted by the shocking discovery he had made on his father¡¯s phone.


    The intimate photos, the betrayal-it was all too much to process. Luca, noticing Ryan¡¯s distant gaze, nudged him. ¡°Ryan, are you with us?¡±Ryan shook his head slightly, bringing himself back to the present. ¡°Yeah, sorry. I¡¯ve just got a lot on my mind.¡±Ivy shot him a concerned look. ¡°You¡¯ve been out of it since you came back. What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Ryan sighed deeply, the weight of the truth pressing down on him. ¡°I found something at home. Something¡­ shocking.¡±Luca raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°What did you find?¡±Ryan leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees as he spoke. ¡°I did what you suggested, Luca. I went home and searched the house, trying to find any clue about what might¡¯ve caused Dad¡¯s copse. I didn¡¯t find anything-at first. But then I found Dad¡¯s phone.¡±


    Ivy and Luca exchanged nces, their interest piqued.¡±It wasn¡¯t locked, which was strange,¡± Ryan continued, his voice low. ¡°I started looking through it, just to see if there was anything unusual. And that¡¯s when I found the photos.¡±Ivy frowned. ¡°Photos? Of what?¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw tightened.


    ¡°Of Mom. And Dr. Parker.¡±Luca straightened, his face darkening. ¡°What?¡±Ryan nodded, his voice shaky as he continued.


    ¡°They were¡­ intimate. Someone sent them to Dad. It¡¯s clear they were having an affair.¡±


    The room fell silent, the revtion hanging in the air like a thick cloud. Ivy stood frozen, her face a mixture of shock and disbelief.¡±I¡­ I don¡¯t even know what to say,¡± Ivy finally muttered, sinking into a chair.


    ¡°Mom and Dr. Parker? Are you sure?¡±Ryan nodded grimly. ¡°I saw the messages. The photos. It was all there. I don¡¯t know how long it¡¯s been going on, but  Dad knew, and someone was sending him the proof.¡±


    Luca pushed off the wall, his expression unreadable. ¡°Do you think this had anything to do with your dad¡¯s heart attack?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Ryan admitted, running his hand through his hair again. ¡°But it wouldn¡¯t surprise me. The stress, the betrayal¡­ it must¡¯ve been too much for him.¡±


    Ivy looked at Ryan, her face pale. ¡°How could Mom do this? And with him? Dr. Parker has been in our lives for years.¡±Ryan didn¡¯t have an answer. He had been grappling with the same questions ever since he saw the photos.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Ivy. But it¡¯s worse than that. Luca traced the number that¡¯s been sending me those anonymous messages¡­ and it¡¯sing from inside our house.¡±Ivy¡¯s eyes widened.


    ¡°Inside the mansion?¡±Luca nodded. ¡°The number is active, and it¡¯s being used right now from somewhere in the house. There¡¯s a snitch inside, Ryan. Someone is feeding you these messages, trying to stir things up.¡±Ryan clenched his fists, his mind racing.


    ¡°But who? Who could it be? And why?¡±Luca¡¯s face hardened. ¡°That¡¯s what we need to find out.¡±Ivy nced at both of them, her voice trembling slightly.


    ¡°Do you think Mom knows?¡±Ryan shook his head, though he wasn¡¯t entirely sure. ¡°I don¡¯t think so. But I wouldn¡¯t put anything past her at this point.¡±


    There was another heavy pause as the gravity of the situation sank in. Ryan could feel his pulse quickening, his mind a whirlwind of emotions-anger, confusion, betrayal.


    Everything was spiraling out of control. Finally, Ivy broke the silence. ¡°What are we going to do? We can¡¯t just sit here and let this happen.¡±Luca crossed his arms, his face serious.


    ¡°First, we need to figure out who¡¯s sending the messages. Whoever it is, they¡¯re still in the house. If we can track them down, we might get some answers.¡±Ryan nodded, determination filling him. ¡°I¡¯ll confront Mom about Dr. Parker, but we need to be careful. Whoever¡¯s behind these messages might be dangerous.¡±


    ¡°I can handle myself,¡± Ivy said, her voice firm. ¡°But we have to be smart about this. We can¡¯t tip anyone off until we know exactly what¡¯s going on.¡±Luca nodded in agreement. ¡°Agreed. We need to stay one step ahead. I¡¯ll keep tracing the messages and see if I can narrow down where they¡¯reing from. Ryan, you talk to your mom. We¡¯ll meet back here after.¡±? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Ryan stood up, his mind made up. ¡°Let¡¯s do it. No more secrets.¡±Later that evening, Ryan walked through the grand halls of the Kendrick mansion, his heart heavy with the weight of what he was about to do. He could feel the tension in the air, thick and suffocating.


    Every step he took felt like it echoed in the silence, amplifying his unease. He found his mother in the living room, sitting by the firece with a ss of wine in her hand. She looked up as he entered, her expression calm andposed.


    ¡°Ryan, darling,¡± she said with a smile, her voice smooth as silk. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you home so soon. How¡¯s your father?¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw tightened at her question. He had always been able to tell when his mother was hiding something, and right now, her casual tone only made him more suspicious.


    ¡°He¡¯s stable,¡± Ryan replied, his voice cold. ¡°But that¡¯s not why I¡¯m here.¡±Mrs. Rose raised an eyebrow, clearly sensing the shift in his tone. ¡°Oh? What¡¯s on your mind, darling?¡±Ryan took a deep breath, his hands clenching into fists at his sides.


    ¡°I found Dad¡¯s phone today. And I saw the photos, Mom. The ones of you and Dr. Parker.¡±For a split second, Mrs. Rose¡¯s expression faltered. Her eyes widened just slightly before she quicklyposed herself, her face a mask of calm once again. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t lie to me,¡± Ryan snapped, his voice rising. ¡°I saw the photos. I saw the messages. You¡¯ve been having an affair with Dr. Parker, and Dad knew about it.


    Someone sent him the proof.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s lips pressed into a thin line, but she remained silent, her eyes never leaving Ryan¡¯s.¡±How could you do this?¡± Ryan continued, his voice shaking with anger.


    ¡°After everything Dad¡¯s done for you, after everything we¡¯ve been through as a family, you betray him like this? With his best friend?¡±Mrs. Rose finally set her ss down on the table and stood up, her expression unreadable. ¡°It¡¯splicated, Ryan.¡±


    ¡°Complicated?¡± Ryan repeated, his voice dripping with disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re having an affair, Mom. How is thatplicated?¡±Mrs. Rose crossed her arms, her gaze cold and calcting.


    ¡°Your father isn¡¯t the man you think he is, Ryan. There are things you don¡¯t know about him-things he¡¯s done, secrets he¡¯s kept. I¡¯m not the only one who¡¯s betrayed this family.


    ¡°Ryan stared at her, stunned by her words. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±Mrs. Rose stepped closer, her voice lowering to a whisper. ¡°Your father has been hiding things from you, from all of us. His business, his dealings¡­ they¡¯re not as clean as he¡¯s led you to believe. And Dr. Parker¡­ he¡¯s involved, too. I didn¡¯t betray your father, Ryan. I protected you.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s mind reeled, his thoughts spinning out of control. ¡°What are you saying? That Dad¡¯s¡­ corrupt?¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes gleamed with something dark. ¡°I¡¯m saying that you don¡¯t know the whole story. And if you keep digging, you¡¯re going to uncover things you wish you hadn¡¯t.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s heart pounded in his chest as he stared at his mother, the weight of her words crashing down on him like a tidal wave. Everything he thought he knew about his family, about his father, was crumbling before his eyes.


    Before he could respond, his phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out and saw another anonymous message. You¡¯re getting closer. But be careful-someone¡¯s watching you.


    Ryan¡¯s blood ran cold as he looked back up at his mother, the reality sinking in that the nightmare was far from over. At that moment, Luca called Ryan, his voice tense. ¡°Ryan, I traced the signal again.


    The person behind the messages¡­ they¡¯re moving. They¡¯re not in the mansion anymore.¡±Ryan¡¯s heart raced. ¡°Where are they?¡±Luca¡¯s voice was grim. ¡°They¡¯re heading towards the hospital.¡±

 Chapter 134

    Iris jolted awake to the blinding sunlight filtering through the barred window of her room.


    For a moment, she felt disoriented, the events of thest few weeks crashing back into her mind with a painful rity.


    She had been locked up here for what seemed like an eternity, and every day was a reminder of the uncertain future that awaited her.


    She shifted on the thin mattress, her body stiff from the confinement. But just as she tried to getfortable, a sharp, unbearable pain shot through her waist and stomach, radiating down to her legs.


    A sudden sensation gripped her, one she had felt creeping for days but had brushed off out of fear. This time, it was undeniable.


    Iris gasped, her hand instinctively moving to her stomach, her fingers trembling. The pain increased, a sensation unlike anything she had ever felt before. Her breath caught in her throat, and before she could process what was happening, a scream ripped from her mouth.


    The sound echoed off the walls of the small room, her panic and agony filling the air. The men standing guard outside the room were alerted immediately.


    Two of them burst through the door, their faces a mix of confusion and rm.¡±What¡¯s going on?¡± one of them demanded, eyes wide as he scanned Iris¡¯s writhing form.


    Iris tried to answer, but all that came out were gasps and sobs. The pain was overwhelming, and she felt as though her entire body was being torn apart. Every muscle, every nerve in her body screamed in agony.


    The second man crouched beside her, trying to assess the situation. ¡°I think¡­ I think she¡¯s inbor,¡± he muttered, panic creeping into his voice.


    ¡°Go get the nurse-quick!¡±The first man didn¡¯t need to be told twice. He bolted from the room, his footsteps pounding down the hallway. Iris gripped the sheets beneath her, her fingers turning white as the pain continued to build.


    Her vision blurred, and she could hardly breathe through the intensity of it all.


    Within minutes, the nurse arrived, her face tight with urgency. She knelt beside Iris, assessing the situation with the calm professionalism of someone who had dealt with emergencies before.


    ¡°Untie her,¡± the nurse ordered the men, her tone firm. ¡°She can¡¯t deliver like this.¡±The guards hesitated for a moment, exchanging a look of uncertainty.


    ¡°Now!¡± the nurse barked, snapping them into action. They quickly undid the bindings that had kept Iris immobilized for days, and the relief of being free from the restraints was brief as another wave of pain surged through her body.


    The nurse ced a hand on Iris¡¯s shoulder, her touch surprisingly gentle. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Iris. I need you to breathe for me, alright? Focus on breathing. In and out.


    ¡°Iris tried toply, but her breath hitched with every contraction. The pressure was unbearable, and her mind was racing with fear. She wasn¡¯t ready for this. Not here. Not now.


    The nurse nced over at the guards. ¡°I need towels, hot water, and scissors. Go. Now.¡± Her voice was calm but authoritative, and the men quickly dispersed to gather the necessary items.


    The nurse returned her focus to Iris, her face softening slightly. ¡°I know you¡¯re scared, but you need to stay calm. The baby ising.¡±Iris¡¯s eyes welled with tears as she shook her head.


    ¡°I-I can¡¯t,¡± she gasped between breaths. ¡°I can¡¯t do this. Not here.¡±


    ¡°You can, and you will,¡± the nurse said firmly, her voice leaving no room for argument. ¡°But I need you to stay focused. If you panic, it will make things worse.¡±Iris¡¯s heart pounded in her chest, the fear mixing with the pain, making everything feel impossible. She didn¡¯t know how to be strong right now. She felt so alone, so powerless.


    Momentster, the guards returned with the supplies the nurse had requested, cing them on the table beside the bed. The nurse moved quickly, preparing for the delivery as efficiently as she could in these less-than-ideal conditions.


    ¡°Alright,¡± the nurse said, her tone even as she turned back to Iris. ¡°When the next contractiones, I want you to push.


    Can you do that?¡±Iris barely had time to nod before another contraction hit her, and she cried out in pain.


    The nurse positioned herself, giving Iris instructions as calmly as possible.¡±Push, Iris. Push now.¡±Iris squeezed her eyes shut, summoning all the strength she could muster.


    Her body trembled with the effort, every fiber of her being focused on bringing the baby into the world. She had no choice. She had to do this.


    The nurse kept her voice steady, guiding Iris through each push. ¡°You¡¯re doing great. Keep going. Just a little more.¡±Sweat poured down Iris¡¯s face as she bore down, her entire body shaking with the strain.


    Time seemed to blur, the moments stretching endlessly, the pain bing her only reality. But amidst the agony, she could feel it-the baby wasing.¡±I can see the head,¡± the nurse said, her voice rising with urgency. ¡°One more big push, Iris. You¡¯re almost there.¡±Iris clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms as she gave it everything she had.


    Her scream echoed through the room once again, and finally, with one final push, the pressure released, and she copsed back onto the mattress, gasping for air.


    There was a moment of silence, broken only by the sound of a tiny cry. The nurse held up the newborn, wrapping the baby in one of the towels before gently cing it in Iris¡¯s arms. ¡°You did it,¡± she whispered, a small smile on her face.


    ¡°It¡¯s a girl.¡±Iris stared down at the tiny, wriggling bundle in her arms, her heart swelling with a mixture of exhaustion, relief, and overwhelming love.


    Tears streamed down her face as she cradled her daughter, the weight of everything she had endured momentarily forgotten in this one beautiful moment. But the peace was short-lived. The door to the room mmed open, and the leader of the guards strode in, his expression grim.


    He nced at the nurse, then at Iris, and finally at the baby in her arms.¡± I just informed the boss,¡± he said, his voice low and serious. ¡°He¡¯s not happy.¡±Iris¡¯s heart skipped a beat, and her joy was quickly reced with dread.


    She clutched her newborn daughter tighter, instinctively shielding her from whatever danger was about toe.¡±What does that mean?¡± the nurse asked, her voice cautious.


    The guard didn¡¯t respond right away, his eyes locked on Iris. ¡°It means the boss wants her and the baby kept under even tighter watch.¡±


    The nurse frowned. ¡°She just gave birth. She needs time to recover.¡±The guard shook his head. ¡°The boss doesn¡¯t care. He wants to see her as soon as possible.¡±Iris¡¯s blood ran cold. She knew exactly who ¡°the boss¡± was.


    And she knew that nothing good woulde from whatever he had nned for her and her baby.


    ¡°Please,¡± Iris whispered, her voice trembling. ¡°Just give me a little more time. I can¡¯t move right now.¡±The guard¡¯s eyes flickered with something-pity, perhaps?-but it vanished as quickly as it had appeared.


    ¡°You¡¯ll have to face him sooner orter.¡±Iris looked down at her daughter, her heart breaking at the thought of what might happen next. She had to protect her, no matter the cost. The nurse ced a hand on the guard¡¯s arm.


    ¡°Give her until tomorrow. Let her recover. I¡¯ll take full responsibility.¡±The guard hesitated, then sighed. ¡°Fine. But tomorrow, she¡¯sing with us. No more dys.


    ¡°With that, he turned and left the room, the door mming shut behind him.


    Iris breathed a shaky sigh of relief, though it was a temporary one. She looked at the nurse, her eyes pleading.


    ¡°What am I going to do?¡±The nurse sat beside her, her expression softening.


    ¡°For now, rest. You and your baby are safe here tonight. We¡¯ll figure something out tomorrow.¡±But even as the nurse spoke, Iris couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that time was running out.


    Tomorrow was fast approaching, and with it, whatever the boss had nned for her and her newborn daughter. She tightened her grip on her baby, vowing silently that no matter what happened, she would do whatever it took to protect her child.


    The nurse¡¯s words were reassuring, but deep down, Iris knew that tomorrow would bring more danger than either of them could anticipate.


    The sun had begun to set, casting long shadows across the room as Irisy there, her mind racing. She had survived so much already, but this felt different.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    The stakes were higher now. The future, once uncertain, now seemed darker than ever. And somewhere, in the back of her mind, she knew that the real fight was just beginning.

 Chapter 135

    Ivy¡¯s heart raced as she stepped out of the car at the hotel where she was supposed to meet her anonymous date. Her dress clung to her figure, making her look every bit the part she needed to y, but inside, she was anxious.


    The recorder taped to her inner dress was secure, and she had made sure to give Ryan and Luca the address earlier. Still, nothing could shake the sense of danger hovering over the night.


    As she entered the hotel lobby, she scanned the room, searching for any signs of her contact. She spotted him leaning casually against the wall, a young bald man who looked neither familiar nor particrly friendly.


    There was something about his bodynguage that put Ivy on; perhaps it was the way he was scanning the crowd with too much intent or the sharpness in his eyes as they zeroed in on her.


    ¡°Ivy?¡± he asked, his voice low and rough as he walked up to her.


    ¡°Yes,¡± she replied with a nod, keeping her tone neutral.


    ¡°You look¡­ different from your pictures.¡± His brow furrowed, clearly trying to reconcile what he expected with what stood before him.


    Ivy managed a small smile. ¡°I guess the camera doesn¡¯t always capture the full picture.¡±


    He seemed to ept the answer, but Ivy noticed his unease. Something wasn¡¯t adding up, and the way he studied her made her skin crawl. ¡°Have we met before?¡± he asked suddenly, a hint of suspicion in his voice.


    Ivy shook her head calmly. ¡°No, this is our first time meeting in person.¡±


    ¡°Funny,¡± he muttered under his breath, ¡°because I feel like I¡¯ve seen you somewhere.¡±


    Ivy kept her smile in ce but felt her pulse quicken. ¡°I just have one of those faces, I guess.¡±


    The man¡¯s gaze lingered on her a second too long before he jerked his head toward the door. ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here. I know a better ce.¡±


    Before Ivy could argue, he was already guiding her outside to his car. Her instincts screamed that this was not part of the n, but she didn¡¯t dare make any sudden moves. Not yet.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    As they drove, Ivy¡¯s body stiffened. The man¡¯s hand remained on the wheel, but his free hand began to wander over her thigh. She forced herself to remain still, her breath catching in her throat as his touch grew more intrusive. Every inch of her wanted to shove him away, but she knew that could blow the entire operation.


    ¡°We¡¯re almost there,¡± he said, his voice a little too casual for the way his hand was roaming.


    Ivy bit back her disgust, forcing a smile. ¡°I can¡¯t wait,¡± she replied, trying to keep her voice steady.


    When they pulled up to a different hotel than the one they¡¯d initially agreed upon, Ivy¡¯s heart dropped. She had to act fast, but she couldn¡¯t be too obvious.


    As they checked in, she followed him into the room, her stomach knotting with fear. The moment he stepped into the bathroom, she quickly grabbed her phone and texted Ryan the new address and room number. The message was barely sent before the man returned.


    Ivy barely had time to drop her phone when he approached her with a predatory smile. ¡°Come on, baby. Let¡¯s getfortable,¡± he murmured, pulling her close and pushing her onto the bed. His hands roamed her body as he started to undress.


    Ivy smiled back, her mind racing, praying that Ryan, Luca, and the police would arrive soon. The seconds stretched into eternity as he undressed, his intentions clear. She tried to keep him distracted, touching his arm lightly and whispering, ¡°Take your time, we have all night.¡±


    But inside, her heart pounded with each passing second, knowing that every moment could be herst.


    Meanwhile, at the hideout¡­


    Be stormed into the room, her face set in stone as she made her way to where Iris was being held. The room smelled sterile, with the faint scent of antiseptics lingering in the air. Iris was writhing on the bed, her body slick with sweat, as she screamed through herbor pains.


    Be¡¯s face remained cold, impassive as she watched Iris struggle. She barely acknowledged the cries for help as Iris begged for some kind of relief.


    ¡°Push harder,¡± the nurse instructed Iris, her tone clinical and detached. ¡°The baby¡¯s almost out.¡±


    Be paced near the doorway, her patience wearing thin. She wasn¡¯t here tofort or care for Iris. Her mind was fixated on the next step in her n. The baby was born, and Iris¡¯s usefulness woulde to an abrupt end. Selling the child would be the easy part. Getting rid of Iris would be even easier.


    Iris screamed again, her voice hoarse as she pushed with all her strength. But even through the pain, shes of memories bombarded her familiar faces, fragments of her past, and voices calling her name. They were disjointed and blurry, but the memories haunted her with each wave of agony.


    Be¡¯s foot tapped impatiently against the cold tile floor. She was ready for this to be over. ¡°Can¡¯t you make her move any faster?¡± she hissed at the nurse.


    ¡°It¡¯sbor, not a race,¡± the nurse replied coolly. ¡°It¡¯ll happen when it happens.¡±


    Be shot the nurse a venomous look before turning her gaze back to Iris, who was now sobbing between breaths. The nurse checked the dtion, nodding to herself. ¡°She¡¯s crowning. One more push.¡±


    Iris¡¯s body trembled violently, her energy nearly depleted. She wasn¡¯t sure how much more she could take. But the thought of her baby, of survival, gave her thest bit of strength she needed.


    With a final scream, the baby¡¯s cry filled the room.


    ¡°There it is,¡± the nurse announced, pulling the newborn into her arms and wrapping it in a towel. Iris¡¯s vision blurred with exhaustion, but she weakly reached out for the child, instinctively wanting to hold her baby.


    But before she could, Be stepped in, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction. She took the baby from the nurse¡¯s hands and smiled down at the newborn. ¡°I¡¯ll take it from here.¡±


    Iris, weak and delirious, could barely form the words. ¡°No¡­ please¡­ my baby¡­¡±


    Be ignored her, cradling the baby as she turned to leave the room. She had bigger ns for this child, and Iris was no longer part of the picture.


    As Be walked away, Iris¡¯s heart shattered. Her screams of desperation echoed down the hall, growing weaker with each passing second as she sumbed to unconsciousness.


    Back at the hotel¡­


    Ivy¡¯s patience was wearing thin. The man was now undressed, inching closer with every breath, but she kept her cool, whispering sweet nothings to buy herself time. She couldn¡¯t shake the terror building inside her chest, but she clung to the hope that Ryan and Luca would arrive any moment.


    He leaned over her, his breath heavy as he whispered in her ear, ¡°You¡¯re even better than I imagined.¡±


    Just as he reached for her, the sound of pounding footsteps outside the door interrupted the moment. The man¡¯s head snapped toward the door in confusion.


    Ivy¡¯s heart leaped. Ryan. It had to be.


    Before he could react, the door burst open, and Ryan, Luca, and two police officers charged in. The man barely had time to process what was happening before he was wrestled to the ground, his face mming into the floor.


    Ivy scrambled off the bed, shaking with relief as she backed away from the chaos. Ryan rushed to her side, grabbing her by the shoulders. ¡°Are you okay?¡± he asked, his voice filled with concern.


    Ivy nodded, still catching her breath. ¡°I¡¯m fine¡­ I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Luca turned to the man on the ground, ring at him with disgust. ¡°You won¡¯t get away with this.¡±


    The man spat on the floor, sneering. ¡°You think you¡¯ve won?¡±


    Ryan tightened his grip on Ivy, his eyes narrowing. ¡°You¡¯ve just made the biggest mistake of your life.¡±


    As the police cuffed the man and led him out, Ivy leaned into Ryan¡¯s chest, finally letting herself rx.


    But deep down, she knew this was only the beginning of something far more dangerous.


    At the hideout¡­


    As Be walked out with the baby in her arms, her phone buzzed. A message from her contact shed across the screen.


    ¡°Everything¡¯s in ce. The buyer is ready.¡±


    Be smirked to herself, her next move already in motion. But little did she know, a storm was brewing that would threaten everything she had carefully nned.

 Chapter 136

    The tension in the room was palpable as the door burst open, and the police officers stormed inside, guns drawn.


    ¡°Freeze!¡± they shouted in unison, their voices echoing against the walls. ¡°Hands in the air, where I can see them!¡±


    The bald man, who had been just inches away from undressing Ivy, froze. His eyes bore into hers for a long, ufortable moment before he slowly climbed off the bed. The room was thick with silence as he lifted his hands in surrender.


    A police officer cautiously stepped forward, his eyes never leaving the man¡¯s form as he patted him down, searching for any hidden weapons or illegal items. After a few moments, the officer shook his head. ¡°Clean,¡± he muttered, stepping back.


    ¡°Put your clothes back on,¡± another officer ordered, his voice firm but calm.


    The bald man did as he was told, slowly pulling on his shirt and pants. The officers didn¡¯t take their eyes off him for a second, their guns still pointed directly at him. Once he was fully dressed, they snapped handcuffs around his wrists and shoved him towards the door.


    ¡°Move,¡± one officermanded, pushing him forward.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Ivy, still shaken by the close call, rushed into Ryan¡¯s arms the moment the man was out of the room. She clung to him tightly, burying her face in his chest as her body trembled from the adrenaline.


    ¡°You¡¯re safe now,¡± Ryan whispered into her hair, his hand gently rubbing her back in an attempt tofort her.


    Luca followed behind, his face grim as they made their way out of the hotel, trailing the police car that carried the bald man to the station. Ivy sat in the back of Ryan¡¯s car, her mind racing with everything that had just happened.


    But there was one thing that nagged at the bald man¡¯s phone had been ringing non-stop ever since the police had arrested him. Whoever was calling him wasn¡¯t giving up.


    Once they arrived at the police station, the man was taken in for questioning. Ryan and Luca stood behind the ss, watching as the officers tried to get information out of him. But the man remained tight-lipped, refusing to say a word. His expression was nk, his eyes cold and detached.


    One of the officers eventually grew frustrated and stormed out of the interrogation room, shaking his head. ¡°He¡¯s not talking,¡± he muttered to Ryan and Luca. ¡°We checked his phone, though. There are some suspicious messages-one of them is identical to the one you found on Be¡¯s phone.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s brows furrowed at the mention of Be. The puzzle pieces were starting toe together, but he still didn¡¯t have the full picture. ¡°What else did you find?¡± he asked, his voice low.


    ¡°Several other messages, all encrypted, but nothing concrete that we can use to identify who¡¯s behind this,¡± the officer replied.


    Ryan exchanged a nce with Luca. They both knew that if the police couldn¡¯t get answers, they had other means at their disposal. ¡°Can you release him to us?¡± Ryan asked, his tone sharp with purpose.


    The officer looked hesitant for a moment but then nodded. ¡°Just don¡¯t make it official,¡± he warned. ¡°We¡¯ll let him walk, but after that, he¡¯s on your hands.¡±


    Later that night, Ryan and Luca dragged the bald man into an abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of the city. His hands were bound, and his feet shuffled across the dirty floor as they pushed him toward a single chair in the middle of the room.


    ¡°Sit,¡± Luca barked, shoving him into the chair.


    Ryan walked around the man in slow, deliberate circles, his eyes never leaving him. ¡°You¡¯re going to answer our questions,¡± Ryan said calmly. ¡°Or things are going to get very unpleasant for you.¡±


    The man¡¯s face remained emotionless. ¡°You think I¡¯m scared of you?¡± he scoffed, his voice dripping with contempt.


    Ryan stopped circling and leaned in close, his voice dropping to a menacing whisper. ¡°I don¡¯t need you to be scared. I just need you to talk.¡±


    When the man remained silent, Ryan motioned to Luca, who pulled a bag from the corner of the room. Inside were various tools, each one designed to inflict pain in creative ways. The bald man¡¯s eyes widened slightly at the sight, a flicker of fear finally crossing his face.


    ¡°Those aren¡¯t meant for me, are they?¡± he asked, his voice shaky for the first time.


    Ryan smirked. ¡°Finally, you speak,¡± he said, stepping closer. ¡°They don¡¯t have to be for you. That¡¯s up to you.¡±


    The man clenched his jaw, his eyes darting between the tools and Ryan¡¯s cold expression. ¡°What do you want?¡± he muttered.


    ¡°Who are you working for?¡± Ryan demanded, his voice icy and controlled.


    The man¡¯s lips pressed into a tight line, refusing to answer. Ryan nced at Luca, giving him a silent nod. Without hesitation, Luca picked up a pair of pliers and moved toward the man¡¯s hand, gripping his pinky finger tightly.


    ¡°Last chance,¡± Luca growled. ¡°Who sent you?¡±


    Silence.


    The sound of bone snapping echoed through the warehouse as the man let out a blood-curdling scream. His pinky finger hit the floor with a sickening thud, blood gushing from his hand.


    ¡°Stop! Stop!¡± the man cried, his voice filled with panic as he writhed in pain.


    Ryan crouched in front of him, his face a mask of calm indifference. ¡°All you have to do is talk,¡± he said softly. ¡°Who sent you? Who are you working for?¡±


    The man gasped, his breathing in shallow, ragged bursts. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know who they are!¡± he finally spat out, his voice trembling. ¡°They don¡¯t tell me anything. I just follow orders.¡±


    ¡°Whose orders?¡± Luca pressed, his grip tightening on the pliers.


    ¡°I swear, I don¡¯t know!¡± the man whimpered. ¡°They contact me through an encrypted phone. I don¡¯t even know their faces. I just do what they say.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°And what do they say?¡±


    The man hesitated, clearly weighing his options before finally speaking. ¡°I was supposed to keep an eye on someone¡­ a woman. Pregnant. That¡¯s all I know.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s eyes widened as she stood in the shadows, watching the scene unfold. Her mind immediately went to Iris-could this all be connected to her somehow? Her gut churned at the thought.


    Ryan wasn¡¯t done. ¡°Why? What¡¯s the n? And what does this have to do with Be?¡±


    The man shook his head frantically. ¡°I don¡¯t know the full n. Be¡¯s involved, sure, but she¡¯s just one piece of it. They¡¯re after something bigger, something to do with the child.¡±


    Ryan exchanged a nce with Luca, tension thickening in the air. ¡°What about the child?¡±


    The man¡¯s face paled. ¡°I don¡¯t know. All I know is that they want the baby¡­ and


    they¡¯re willing to do anything to get it.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s fists clenched at his sides, his mind racing with possibilities. This was much bigger than they had anticipated, and the danger was far from over. If they were after the baby, Iris¡¯s life and her child¡¯s-were in imminent danger.


    Ryan leaned in closer, his voice cold as ice. ¡°Where are they taking the child?¡±


    The man¡¯s lips trembled as he finally broke under the pressure. ¡°There¡¯s a buyer. Overseas. That¡¯s all I know, I swear!¡±


    Ryan straightened up, his face expressionless as he turned to Luca. ¡°We¡¯re done here.¡±


    Luca nodded and shoved the man¡¯s chair, sending him sprawling onto the floor with a thud. The bald man groaned in pain, clutching his mutted hand as blood continued to drip onto the cold concrete.


    Ryan¡¯s mind was already working through the next steps. They had to find Iris. Fast.


    Back at the hideout¡­


    Irisy in the dimly lit room, weak and exhausted after giving birth. Her mind swam in a haze, the pain ofbor still fresh in her body. She had been in and out of consciousness, barely aware of what was happening around her.


    But one thing was clear: the baby was gone. She had only caught a brief glimpse before it was taken from her, and the emptiness in her arms felt like a gaping hole in her soul.


    As shey there, she could hear voices murmuring outside the door. Be¡¯s voice was unmistakable, cold, and calcting as she spoke with someone.


    ¡°The arrangements are made,¡± Be said. ¡°The buyer is ready, and the child will be gone by tomorrow.¡±


    Iris¡¯s heart pounded in her chest as fear gripped her. She had to do something. She had to get her baby back.


    But in her weakened state, she didn¡¯t know how.


    She only knew one thing-if Be got her way, she might never see her child again.

 Chapter 137

    Ryan¡¯s face was stone cold as he held the sharp instrument just inches away from the bald man¡¯s ear. The man¡¯s screams echoed through the dimly lit warehouse, but Ryan showed no emotion, no hesitation.


    His hand was steady, his eyes dark and calcting. The scent of blood filled the air as the bald man¡¯s desperation grew.


    Luca watched silently, his arms crossed over his chest, ready to step in if Ryan needed him. He knew exactly what Ryan was doing-pushing the man to his breaking point.


    Torture was ast resort, but when dealing with someone who wouldn¡¯t speak, it became necessary.


    As Ryan¡¯s grip tightened on the bald man¡¯s ear, the man finally broke.¡±I¡¯ll talk! I¡¯ll talk!¡± the man screamed, his voice hoarse from the pain.


    ¡°The pregnantdy¡¯s name is Iris!¡±Ryan¡¯s hand froze mid-air, his heart skipping a beat. The name Iris sent a chill down his spine. He had suspected it, but hearing it confirmed shook him to his core.¡±Iris?¡±


    Ryan repeated, his voice low and dangerous. The bald man nodded frantically, his eyes wide with fear. ¡°Yes! Iris Kendrick!¡±


    Luca exchanged a look with Ryan, both of them frozen in shock. They knew Iris had been missing for months, but they had no idea she had been in captivity all this time.


    ¡°You were ordered to kidnap her?¡± Ryan asked, his voice now cold andposed, though his mind was racing.¡±Yes,¡± the man panted, his face pale and drenched in sweat. ¡°Madam Be¡­ she gave the order. She¡¯s been keeping Iris hidden for months.


    We were supposed to take her somewhere far away, but she went intobor yesterday morning. I left to handle something else, and that¡¯s when I tried to-¡°Ryan cut him off, his grip tightening on the man¡¯s ear. ¡°Where is she now?¡±


    ¡°I-I don¡¯t know exactly! I swear!¡± the man cried, his voice trembling. ¡°The nurse was there when I left. Be was informed.


    She¡¯s probably already at the location by now.¡±Ryan¡¯s blood boiled. Be had orchestrated the entire thing, keeping Iris in captivity all this time.


    And now, Iris was inbor, vulnerable, andpletely unaware of the danger she and her newborn faced. Ryan took a step back, letting go of the bald man¡¯s ear. ¡°Where¡¯s the location? Tell me, now.¡±


    The man winced in pain, clutching his bloodied hand. ¡°A warehouse on the outskirts¡­ same ce we¡¯ve been keeping her¡­ near the docks. It¡¯s well hidden and hard to find unless you know where to look.


    ¡°Ryan stepped away, his mind already calcting the next steps. He couldn¡¯t waste any more time. Iris¡¯s life-and the life of her newborn-were in immediate danger.¡±We have to move,¡± Ryan said to Luca, his voice urgent.


    ¡°We need to get to her before it¡¯s toote.¡±Luca nodded, his face tense. ¡°I¡¯ll get the car ready.¡±Before they left, Ryan looked back at the bald man, who was still whimpering in pain, his body trembling.


    ¡°If you¡¯re lying, we¡¯ll find you again,¡± Ryan warned, his voice like ice. ¡°And trust me, next time, I won¡¯t stop with just a few fingers.¡±The bald man didn¡¯t respond, too consumed by his agony. Luca gave him one final re before following Ryan out of the warehouse.


    As Ryan and Luca sped toward the docks, the tension in the car was palpable. The rain pelted the windshield, making the drive even more treacherous, but Ryan didn¡¯t slow down.


    His thoughts were consumed by Iris-how could he not have known she was in danger for so long? Luca nced over at Ryan, sensing his frustration.


    ¡°We¡¯re going to find her,¡± he said, trying to reassure him. ¡°We¡¯ll get her and the baby out of there.¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw clenched. ¡°We have to. I should have figured this out sooner. If anything happens to Iris or the baby-¡±


    ¡°It won¡¯t,¡± Luca interrupted firmly. ¡°We¡¯re getting there in time. We¡¯ll handle Be.¡±Ryan¡¯s mind raced through the possibilities.


    What was Be¡¯s endgame? Why go to such lengths to kidnap Iris and keep her hidden during her pregnancy? And who was this buyer the bald man had mentioned? His grip tightened on the steering wheel.


    Minutester, they arrived at the docks. The rain continued to pour as they parked a safe distance away, the outline of arge, run-down warehouse barely visible through the downpour.


    Ryan¡¯s eyes scanned the area, searching for any signs of security or other threats.¡±Looks quiet,¡± Luca muttered, but both men knew that didn¡¯t mean much.


    They stepped out of the car, keeping low and moving quickly toward the warehouse. The building loomed ahead of them, its windows dark and foreboding.


    Ryan¡¯s heart raced with every step, knowing that time was running out. As they approached the entrance, Ryan pulled out his gun, motioning for Luca to follow close behind.


    He carefully pushed the door open, and the two men slipped inside. The inside of the warehouse was eerily quiet, save for the sound of rain tapping against the roof. Stacks of old shipping containers filled the space, providing plenty of ces to hide.


    Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed as he motioned for Luca to split up and search the perimeter. He crept forward, his steps silent on the concrete floor. The only sound was his heartbeat pounding in his ears as he scanned the shadows.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Then, faintly, he heard it-the muffled sound of a baby crying. Ryan¡¯s stomach dropped as he followed the sound, his gun raised. The crying grew louder as he moved deeper into the warehouse, his heart thudding in his chest.


    Finally, he reached a small room in the back, the door slightly ajar. He pushed it open, and there, lying on a dirty mattress, was Iris.


    She looked frail and exhausted, her face pale as she clutched her newborn to her chest. Her eyes fluttered open as Ryan entered the room, but she was too weak to react.


    ¡°Ryan¡­¡± she whispered, her voice barely audible. Ryan¡¯s heart clenched at the sight of her. ¡°Iris,¡± he breathed, rushing to her side.


    ¡°I¡¯m here. I¡¯m going to get you out of here.¡±Iris¡¯s eyes were filled with tears as she looked down at the baby in her arms. ¡°The baby¡­ they were going to take her.¡±


    ¡°Not if I have anything to say about it,¡± Ryan said firmly, gently helping her to her feet. He nced down at the tiny newborn, his protective instincts kicking in.


    They had to move fast. Just as they were about to leave the room, the door mmed shut behind them. Ryan spun around, his gun raised, and there stood Be, her face twisted in anger.¡±You think you can just take her?¡± Be hissed, her voice filled with venom.


    ¡°You have no idea what¡¯s at stake here, Ryan.¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes narrowed as he kept his gun trained on her.


    ¡°What¡¯s at stake? You¡¯re willing to kidnap and sell a child for what? Money? Power?¡±Be sneered, her lips curling in a cruel smile. ¡°This is bigger than you could ever imagine.


    That baby is worth more than you¡¯ll ever know.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re insane,¡± Ryan spat, his voiceced with disgust. Be¡¯s eyes shed with anger as she took a step closer. ¡°You don¡¯t understand, Ryan. That child is part of something much bigger. And I won¡¯t let you ruin everything.¡±


    Ryan tightened his grip on the gun, his mind racing. He couldn¡¯t let Be take Iris or the baby, but he also couldn¡¯t predict what Be might do next.


    ¡°You¡¯ve lost, Be,¡± Ryan said coldly. ¡°It¡¯s over.¡±But Be¡¯s smile only widened as she reached into her pocket and pulled out a small device. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s far from over,¡± she whispered, her thumb hovering over a button.


    Ryan¡¯s heart raced as he realized what she was holding-some kind of detonator. The warehouse was wired to explode. At that moment, everything seemed to slow down. He knew he had seconds to act, but one wrong move could end everything.


    His eyes flickered to Iris, who was holding the baby tightly, her face pale with fear.


    And then, without warning, Be pressed the button.


    The ground beneath them trembled as a deafening explosion rocked the warehouse, sending debris flying through the air.


    The force of the st knocked Ryan and Iris to the ground, shielding the baby as best they could. Smoke filled the air, making it hard to see or breathe.


    Ryan¡¯s ears rang from the explosion, but his mind was focused on one thing-getting Iris and the baby out alive. As he struggled to his feet, coughing through the smoke, he could barely make out Be¡¯s figure disappearing into the chaos.


    She had nned her escape, and now they were running out of time. With the walls copsing around them, Ryan knew they had only one shot to make it out alive.

 Chapter 138

    Ryan¡¯s heart pounded as they approached the isted warehouse where Iris had been held hostage for months.


    The darkness surrounding the ce felt suffocating as if it harbored the countless secrets and horrors Be had orchestrated.


    They had gotten the location from the bald man earlier, leaving him tied up with the police watching over him.


    Ryan parked the car a good distance away from the warehouse, Luca by his side. The two men exchanged a knowing nce-this was going to be a delicate mission.


    They couldn¡¯t afford to make any mistakes, not with Iris¡¯s life hanging in the bnce. Behind them, the police trailed silently, having agreed to follow without using their sirens. The goal was to maintain the element of surprise.¡±Remember,¡± Ryan whispered to Luca, ¡°we go in quietly.


    We don¡¯t know how many men Be¡¯s got in there, and we need to get to Iris before anything goes wrong.¡±Luca nodded, his face tense with determination. Both men pulled out their silenced guns and moved cautiously toward the warehouse.


    As they got closer, the dim glow of lights from inside the building flickered through the windows. Shadows shifted along the walls, indicating the presence of guards. They approached the entrance, crouching low behind some crates.


    Two guards stood near the door, rifles slung across their shoulders. Ryan motioned to Luca, signaling to take them down quietly. Luca nodded and aimed his gun. With two soft pops, the guards dropped silently to the ground, their bodies hitting the concrete with a soft thud.


    Ryan stepped over them, his focus sharp as they entered the warehouse. The ce wasrger than expected, with rows of crates and old machinery scattered across the floor.


    A few more guards patrolled the area, but Ryan and Luca moved quickly, taking them down with precise shots before any rms could be raised.


    As they advanced further inside, they stumbled upon a group of men guarding a small, dimly lit room. Ryan¡¯s heart skipped a beat, knowing that Iris could be just behind that door. There was no time to waste.


    With swift precision, Ryan and Lucaunched their assault, taking out the guards in a flurry of gunfire. Some fell immediately, while others tried to retaliate, but Luca¡¯s quick reflexes left them no chance.


    Once the area was clear, Ryan rushed to the door of the room. His hands trembled as he reached for the handle, praying that Iris was inside and unharmed.


    He pushed the door open slowly, his breath catching in his throat. There, tied to a chair in the middle of the room, was Iris. Her hair was matted, her face pale, and her eyes wide with fear. She looked disoriented, her body bruised and weak.


    The sight of her in such a state sent a surge of rage through Ryan, but he knew he had to remain calm-for her.


    He knelt in front of her, gently cing his hands on her bindings. ¡°Iris, it¡¯s me,¡± he whispered, his voice soft. ¡°You¡¯re safe now.¡±Iris¡¯s eyes darted around the room, her mind struggling toprehend the situation.


    She flinched at Ryan¡¯s touch, clearly terrified, her breathinging in short, panicked gasps.¡±Who are you?¡± she croaked, her voice barely a whisper. She looked at him with a mixture of confusion and fear.


    ¡°Where did youe from? What¡¯s happening?¡±Ryan paused for a moment, unsure of how much she remembered. ¡°I¡¯m Ryan,¡± he said softly. ¡°Your husband. I¡¯vee to take you home.¡±


    At the mention of the word ¡°husband,¡± Iris¡¯s eyes went wide, and her body tensed. Her mind raced as fragmented memories shed before her.


    None of this made sense-who was this man iming to be her husband? And why couldn¡¯t she remember him?¡±No¡­ no, you¡¯re lying,¡± she muttered, shaking her head violently. Her breaths became more frantic.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know you. I don¡¯t remember anything!¡±Ryan reached for her, his voice full of reassurance. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Iris. You don¡¯t have to remember everything right now. You¡¯ve been through so much, but I¡¯m here to take you away from all this. You¡¯re safe now.¡±


    But Iris¡¯s fear overwhelmed her. Her vision blurred, her head spinning as the reality of the situation became too much to bear. Before Ryan could say another word, Iris copsed into his arms, her body going limp.¡±Iris!¡± Ryan shouted, catching her as she fell unconscious.


    His heart pounded as he lifted her gently, cradling her fragile form in his arms. Luca appeared at the doorway, his expression grim. ¡°We need to get her out of here. Now.¡±Ryan nodded, his mind racing.


    There was no time to waste. He carried Iris out of the warehouse, his eyes scanning the area for any signs of danger. The police had secured the perimeter, but Ryan knew Be wouldn¡¯t be far behind once she realized her n had failed.


    They reached the car, and Luca quickly opened the back door. Ryanid Iris down carefully, making sure she was asfortable as possible in her unconscious state. Her breathing was shallow but steady.¡±I¡¯ll drive,¡± Ryan said as he climbed into the driver¡¯s seat, his hands gripping the steering wheel tightly.


    ¡°We need to get her to the hospital.¡±Luca didn¡¯t argue. He jumped into the passenger seat as Ryan mmed his foot on the elerator, the tires screeching as they sped away from the warehouse.


    The police trailed behind them, but Ryan didn¡¯t care about protocol at this point. All that mattered was Iris-and the baby.


    The ride to the hospital felt like an eternity. Ryan nced at Iris through the rearview mirror every few seconds, his stomach in knots. He had found her, but the battle was far from over.


    She was still weak, terrified, and confused. And Be was still out there, a constant threat looming over them.


    They arrived at the hospital, and Ryan parked the car haphazardly in front of the emergency entrance.


    Without wasting a second, he scooped Iris into his arms again and rushed inside, shouting for help.¡±Help! She¡¯s unconscious!¡± Ryan called out, his voice echoing through the sterile halls.


    A team of nurses and doctors rushed toward him, quickly taking Iris from his arms and cing her on a stretcher. Ryan followed closely as they wheeled her down the corridor, his heart racing with anxiety.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°We¡¯ll take it from here, sir,¡± one of the doctors said firmly, stopping Ryan from entering the operating room. ¡°She¡¯s in good hands.¡±Ryan stood there, helpless, watching as the doors swung shut.


    The adrenaline that had kept him going began to fade, leaving him with a crushing weight of worry. He didn¡¯t know how long he stood there, but eventually, Luca appeared by his side.


    ¡°She¡¯s strong, Ryan,¡± Luca said quietly. ¡°She¡¯ll pull through.¡±Ryan nodded, but his mind was still reeling. ¡°I should¡¯ve found her sooner,¡± he muttered. ¡°I didn¡¯t even know she was pregnant, Luca.


    She went through all of that alone.¡±Luca ced a hand on Ryan¡¯s shoulder, his voice firm.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t your fault. Be did this. But now we have a chance to make things right. She¡¯s safe now, and that¡¯s all that matters.¡±Ryan didn¡¯t respond, his gaze fixed on the doors. The minutes ticked by, each one stretching out longer than thest.


    Finally, after what felt like hours, the doctor emerged from the room. Ryan¡¯s heart leaped into his throat as he rushed forward.¡±How is she?¡± he asked, his voice filled with urgency. The doctor smiled faintly, though his expression remained serious.


    ¡°She¡¯s stable. The baby¡¯s healthy, too. They¡¯re both going to be fine, but Iris will need time to recover-physically and mentally. She¡¯s been through a lot.¡±Ryan let out a breath he didn¡¯t realize he had been holding.


    Relief washed over him, but it was tempered by the weight of everything that had happened. Iris was safe for now, but the fight was far from over.¡±Can I see her?¡± Ryan asked, his voice soft. The doctor nodded.


    ¡°She¡¯s resting now, but you can sit with her. Just try not to overwhelm her.¡±Ryan thanked the doctor and made his way to Iris¡¯s room. As he entered, the sight of her lying there, fragile and pale, nearly broke him.


    He pulled up a chair next to the bed and sat down, his gaze never leaving her face.¡±I¡¯m sorry,¡± he whispered, reaching out to gently brush a strand of hair from her forehead.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t get to you sooner.¡±Iris didn¡¯t stir, but her chest rose and fell steadily.


    Ryan stayed by her side, watching over her, his mind filled with thoughts of whaty ahead. Be had crossed a line-one that couldn¡¯t be forgiven. Ryan knew that this was only the beginning. Be woulde for them again, and next time, he would be ready.

 Chapter 139

    Ryan stood outside the emergency room, pacing back and forth as Iris was rushed inside on a stretcher. His heart was pounding, worry etched into every line of his face.


    Doctors and nurses moved swiftly, tending to her, but the moments felt like hours as he waited for news.


    Luca was on the phone with Ivy, his voice low but urgent. ¡°We found her,¡± Luca said. ¡°She¡¯s at the hospital now, but she¡¯s in bad shape.


    You need toe down here, Ivy.¡±Ivy¡¯s voice, strained with concern, crackled through the phone. ¡°I¡¯m on my way.¡±Ryan nced at Luca, grateful for his support but still on edge. Every second that passed felt like a lifetime.


    He kept reying the scene of Iris copsing in his arms, the terror in her eyes before she lost consciousness. He had failed her once; he couldn¡¯t afford to fail her again.


    After what seemed like an eternity, Luca ended the call. ¡°Ivy¡¯sing,¡± he said, leaning against the wall next to Ryan. ¡°She should be here soon.¡±Ryan nodded absently, his eyes still fixed on the doors of the emergency room.


    ¡°She didn¡¯t even know who I was,¡± he murmured, more to himself than to Luca. ¡°She doesn¡¯t remember¡­ anything.¡±Luca sighed, crossing his arms.


    ¡°She¡¯s been through hell, Ryan. It¡¯s going to take time for her to heal. Physically and mentally. But at least she¡¯s safe now.¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw clenched.


    ¡°Safe for now. But Be¡¯s still out there, and I don¡¯t know what else she¡¯s nning.


    ¡°As if on cue, Ryan¡¯s phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out, checking the screen. It was a message from one of the officers who had stayed behind at the warehouse. We¡¯ve got one of Be¡¯s men. He¡¯s in custody, but some managed to escape.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s gut twisted. He handed the phone to Luca. ¡°Be¡¯s men are scattering. If they regroup¡­¡±Luca read the message, his expression darkening.


    ¡°We need to keep an eye on her movements. She won¡¯t go down without a fight.¡±


    Just then, the doors to the emergency room swung open. A nurse stepped out, looking at Ryan with a calm but serious expression.


    ¡°She¡¯s stable for now,¡± the nurse said. ¡°You¡¯ll be able to see her soon, but she needs rest. The trauma she¡¯s experienced is severe.¡±Relief washed over Ryan, but it was quickly overshadowed by the weight of everything else.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± he managed, his voice tight with emotion. The nurse nodded before turning to leave, and just as she did, Ivy came rushing down the hallway, her eyes wide with panic.¡±Where is she?¡± Ivy demanded, her voice breathless.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Iris?¡±Ryan stepped forward, cing a hand on Ivy¡¯s shoulder to calm her. ¡°She¡¯s stable, Ivy. But they¡¯re saying we can¡¯t see her just yet. She¡¯s been through a lot.¡±Ivy¡¯s face crumpled with a mixture of relief and worry.


    ¡°I should have been there,¡± she whispered, tears welling up in her eyes. ¡°I should have done something sooner.¡±Ryan shook his head, his voice firm.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t your fault. Be was behind all of it. But we found her, and she¡¯s going to be okay.¡±Ivy nodded, though the guilt still lingered in her expression. She wiped her eyes quickly and took a deep breath.


    ¡°I¡¯m not leaving until I can see her.¡±Ryan and Luca exchanged a nce, both understanding Ivy¡¯s determination. The three of them stood in tense silence, waiting for the moment when they could finally see Iris.


    Elsewhere, Be¡¯s world was beginning to unravel. One of the men who had managed to escape from the warehouse frantically dialed Be¡¯s number.


    His breath was ragged as he spoke, the panic clear in his voice.¡±Be, they¡¯re here! Ryan and the police-they raided the warehouse! Some of the men are dead, and they took Iris!¡±


    Be¡¯s blood ran cold. She had thought her n was foolproof, that no one would find out until it was toote. But now, everything was crumbling around her.¡±Are you sure?¡± she asked, her voice sharp, though panic crept in.¡±I¡¯m sure,¡± the man replied.


    ¡°They¡¯ve already taken Iris. You need to get out of there before theye for you.¡±Be¡¯s hand trembled as she ended the call. Immediately, she dialed Victor.


    Her breath came in short gasps as the phone rang, and finally, Victor picked up.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    ¡°Be,¡± Victor¡¯s deep voice came through the phone, calm and collected. ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡±


    ¡°Ryan and the police-they raided the warehouse. They took Iris. I don¡¯t know how they found her, but they¡¯ve ruined everything!¡±


    Victor was silent for a moment, then his voice returned, steely andposed. ¡°You need to leave thepany now. Pack up and get out of there before the policee knocking at your door. I¡¯ll send you a location. Meet me there.¡±


    Be¡¯s heart pounded as she gathered her things, moving swiftly through the office. ¡°What about the child?¡± she asked, her voice low. Victor¡¯s response was chilling. ¡°The buyer already picked up the child.


    Everything else is irrelevant now. Get out.¡±Be swallowed hard, feeling a lump in her throat. She grabbed her bag, still on the phone with Victor, as she approached the main entrance.


    But as she neared the door, she froze. Through the ss doors, she could see several police officers approaching, along with a crowd of paparazzi swarming the entrance.


    Their cameras shed, reporters already shouting questions. Be¡¯s pulse quickened. She turned on her heel, trying to retreat, but it was toote.


    Before she could slip away, two officers stepped into the building and caught up with her.¡±Be Kendrick, you¡¯re under arrest,¡± one of the officers said, grabbing her arm and twisting it behind her back.


    ¡°No!¡± Be screamed, struggling against the officer¡¯s grip. ¡°This is a mistake! You can¡¯t do this!¡±


    But her protests fell on deaf ears as they pped handcuffs around her wrists and led her outside, the paparazzi capturing every humiliating second. Be was pushed into the back of a police car, her heart racing as her life spiraled out of control.


    At the Kendrick mansion, Mrs. Rose sat in the living room with her husband, flipping through TV channels. She froze when a breaking news report shed across the screen, showing Be being escorted out of the Kendrick building in handcuffs.


    Reporters swarmed her, shouting questions about her involvement in Iris¡¯s kidnapping and illegal transactions linked to the Kendrick Empire.


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes widened in shock. She hadn¡¯t expected this. What was happening?¡±Honey,¡± she called out to her husband, her voice tinged with surprise.


    ¡°You need to see this.¡±Mr. Kendrick nced at the TV, his expression turning grim as he took in the scene.¡±


    I knew that girl was trouble,¡± he muttered. ¡°But this? I didn¡¯t think she¡¯d go this far.¡±Mrs. Rose pulled out her phone and quickly dialed Parker.


    The phone rang a few times before Parker¡¯s voice came through.¡±I just saw it too,¡± Parker said, cutting straight to the point. ¡°Be¡¯s been arrested.


    This is good news for us.¡±Mrs. Rose exhaled slowly, still processing the information. ¡°I can¡¯t believe she was the one behind Iris¡¯s kidnapping. I thought she just wanted control of thepany.¡±Parker chuckled darkly. ¡°She wanted more than that, but it looks like it¡¯s all falling apart for her now.


    This means our n is finallying together. With Be out of the way, the Kendricks are ripe for the taking.¡±Mrs. Rose couldn¡¯t help but smile at the thought. ¡°You¡¯re right. This is perfect. But I still can¡¯t believe how deeply she was involved.


    Voice recordings n to sell off thepany¡­¡± Parker¡¯s voice lowered. ¡°We need to be careful. The police are going to dig into everything now. We¡¯vee too far to have our tracks exposed.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose¡¯s smile faded, and she nodded to herself, even though Parker couldn¡¯t see her. ¡°You¡¯re right. We need to be cautious.¡±


    ¡°We will,¡± Parker assured her. ¡°Let¡¯s just make sure we stick to the n. The Kendricks won¡¯t know what hit them.¡±Back at the hospital, Ryan, Ivy, and Luca sat in the waiting room, the tension thick in the air. Ivy wrung her hands, her leg bouncing with nervous energy.


    ¡°How much longer are they going to keep us waiting?¡±Ryan sighed, leaning back in his chair. ¡°They¡¯ll let us see her when it¡¯s safe. She¡¯s been through a lot.¡±Ivy bit her lip, ncing toward the hallway where Iris was being treated.


    ¡°She must be so scared. I can¡¯t believe Be did all this.¡±Luca nodded, his eyes dark. ¡°Be¡¯s finally getting what she deserves. But it doesn¡¯t change the damage she¡¯s done.


    ¡°Ryan¡¯s phone buzzed again, and he nced at it. It was a news alert-Be¡¯s arrest was already making headlines. He showed the phone to Luca and Ivy, who both read the headline with grim expressions.¡±They¡¯ve got her,¡± Luca said.


    ¡°But I don¡¯t think this is over.¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw clenched. ¡°It¡¯s not. Be¡¯s just one piece of the puzzle. Victor¡¯s still out there, and who knows what else he¡¯s nning.¡±Just then, the nurse appeared again,

 Chapter 140

    Iris blinked several times as her vision slowly came into focus, the haze in her eyes gradually clearing. She could see familiar figures hovering around her bed, their faces tense with concern.


    She struggled to piece together the fragments of her memory, and then it hit her-Ryan.¡±Ryan,¡± she whispered, her voice barely audible. Ryan, who had been pacing at the foot of her bed, immediately rushed to her side.


    His heart raced as he took her hand gently, gazing into her eyes with a mixture of relief and anxiety.


    ¡°Hey, honey. How are you feeling?¡± he asked softly, his voiceced with worry. Iris¡¯s brows furrowed in confusion. ¡°What happened, Ryan? Where am I?¡± She nced around the sterile white hospital room. ¡°Where¡¯s our baby?.¡±


    Ryan froze, his hand still sping hers. ¡°Our baby?¡± he asked, his voice faltering. He didn¡¯t know what she meant.¡±Yes,¡± Iris nodded weakly, her hand instinctively moving to her stomach. ¡°She took her away from me.¡±Ryan leaned closer, his eyes narrowing with rm.


    ¡°Who took her away, Iris? What are you talking about?¡±Tears welled up in Iris¡¯s eyes, her face contorted with anguish. ¡°What did I do to deserve all this?¡± she cried, her hands clutching her head as if in pain. ¡°Be. It was Be. She did this to me.¡±Ryan¡¯s heart sank, the weight of her words hitting him like a freight train.


    ¡°Be?¡± he repeated, his mind racing to connect the dots. ¡°Iris, what did Be do?¡±Iris gritted her teeth, her memory flooding back in painful shes. ¡°Be is responsible for my kidnapping,¡± she said, her voice shaking with rage. ¡°I was pregnant, Ryan. I wanted to tell you, but before I could, they took me. And after I gave birth¡­ Be took our child away. She took her away from me.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s face paled, disbelief etched across his features. He couldn¡¯t process what he was hearing. ¡°Iris¡­ you were pregnant?¡±She nodded, tears streaming down her cheeks. ¡°Yes, Ryan. We have a daughter. Please¡­ find her. Find our baby.¡±Ryan inhaled sharply, his mind reeling. He hade to terms with a lot recently, but this was overwhelming. He leaned over, pressing his forehead against hers gently.


    ¡°Iris, I promise you¡­ I will find our child. I¡¯ll do whatever it takes.¡±Iris nodded weakly, but her body trembled. She looked fragile as if the weight of everything she had been through might crush her at any moment.


    Suddenly, there was a soft voice from the corner of the room. ¡°Iris¡­¡±Ivy stepped forward hesitantly, her face drawn with guilt and shame.


    Iris turned her head to look at her, and the fury in her eyes was unmistakable. Anger rippled through Iris as she met Ivy¡¯s gaze, her body tensing up.¡±Ivy¡­¡± Iris spat her name out like venom. ¡°What do you want? You have no right to be here.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ivy said, her voice trembling. She stepped closer, wringing her hands nervously. ¡°I know you¡¯re mad at me. You have every right to be angry, but please¡­ please forgive me. I¡¯m so sorry for everything.¡±Iris shook her head, her chest heaving with emotion.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to apologize, Ivy. I know you¡¯ve never liked me. I know you never wanted me in your life. But right now, I don¡¯t care about you or your apologies. I just want my child. I want my daughter, and I want my mother. Once I have them, I¡¯ll leave your family forever. You¡¯ll never have to deal with me again.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s eyes filled with tears, and she took a deep breath. ¡°Iris¡­ our mother. She¡¯s our mother.¡±Iris stared at Ivy, stunned by the words that had just left her sister¡¯s mouth. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Iris¡­ Jessica¡­ she¡¯s our mother. I only found out recently,¡± Ivy whispered, her voice barely holding steady. Iris blinked in confusion, her mind scrambling to make sense of what Ivy had just said. ¡°No¡­ No, that can¡¯t be true.¡±


    ¡°Yes, it is,¡± Ivy said, tears slipping down her cheeks. ¡°I didn¡¯t know either, but I found out. All this time¡­ she¡¯s been our mother.¡±


    The room went silent, except for the beeping of the machines around Iris¡¯s bed. Iris could feel the ground beneath her slipping away. Her heart pounded as the pieces of her past began to shift, clicking into ce in a way she had never imagined.


    ¡°Our mother,¡± Iris whispered, her voice shaking. She squeezed her eyes shut, the truth cutting deep. Ryan watched in silence, unsure of what to say or do. He could see the pain etched on both sisters¡¯ faces.


    But there was no denying the tension between them, a rift that felt too wide to bridge.¡±I didn¡¯t mean for any of this to happen,¡± Ivy continued her voice small and pleading. ¡°I swear, Iris. I didn¡¯t want you to get hurt.¡±Iris opened her eyes, her gaze hardening.


    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you do anything to stop it?¡± she demanded. ¡°You stood by and watched, Ivy. You didn¡¯t lift a finger to help me.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know how!¡± Ivy cried, the weight of her guilt crashing down on her. ¡°I was scared! I didn¡¯t know what to do. But I¡¯m here now, Iris. I¡¯m trying to make it right.¡±Iris shook her head, her heart heavy with sorrow.


    ¡°It¡¯s toote for that, Ivy. The damage is done.¡±A soft knock at the door interrupted them, and a nurse peeked in. ¡°Mr. Kendrick,¡± she said, addressing Ryan. ¡°There¡¯s someone here to see Iris.¡±


    Ryan looked at Iris, who gave a weak nod. He stepped aside as the door opened wider, revealing Jessica, her face pale and strained with emotion.


    ¡°Iris¡­¡± Jessica whispered, her voice thick with emotion. Iris stared at her, the woman who had raised her, loved her and protected her. And now, the woman who was her mother. Her real mother.¡±Mom?¡± Iris¡¯s voice broke, her eyes wide with disbelief.


    Jessica rushed to her side, tears streaming down her face. ¡°Oh, Iris. My sweet girl.¡± She gathered Iris into her arms, holding her tightly as if afraid to let go.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Iris. I¡¯m so sorry for everything.¡±Iris sobbed into Jessica¡¯s shoulder, overwhelmed by the flood of emotions crashing over her.


    The weight of betrayal, fear, and confusion suffocated her, but in her mother¡¯s embrace, she felt a tiny bit of sce.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Ryan stood back, watching the reunion, his heart aching for Iris.


    He wanted tofort her, to tell her everything would be okay, but there were still so many unanswered questions-about the baby, about Be, and about what they would do next.


    As Jessica stroked Iris¡¯s hair, she whispered, ¡°We¡¯re going to get through this. Together. I promise.¡±


    But before anyone could respond, the door burst open again, and this time a detective entered the room, his expression grim.¡±I¡¯m sorry to interrupt, but we have news,¡± the detective said, his voice heavy. ¡°We¡¯ve just received information about Be¡¯s arrest and her connection to Iris¡¯s kidnapping.¡±


    Iris gasped, her body going rigid. Ryan moved closer to her, his face hardening. ¡°What information?¡±The detective pulled out his phone and yed a voice recording. Be¡¯s voice filled the room, cold and calcting, discussing the abduction of Iris and the ns to take over the Kendrick empire. Iris¡¯s heart raced, her mind spinning.


    ¡°Be¡­¡± she whispered, her eyes filled with rage. ¡°She took everything from me. And now she has my child.¡±The detective paused the recording and looked at them. ¡°We¡¯re still working on locating the child, but we believe she¡¯s with a buyer Be arranged.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s jaw clenched, his hands forming fists at his sides. ¡°We need to find her. Now.¡±The detective nodded. ¡°We¡¯re doing everything we can, Mr. Kendrick.¡±Iris gripped the sides of her hospital bed, her chest heaving with fury. ¡°She¡¯s not going to get away with this,¡± she growled. ¡°I won¡¯t let her.¡±


    Ryan ced a hand on her shoulder, his voice low and determined. ¡°We¡¯ll find her, Iris. I swear to you, we will.¡±But even as they stood together, united in their determination to bring Be down, an unsettling feeling lingered in the air-a sense that something far worse was yet toe.


    And in the shadows, someone was watching, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. The clock was ticking.

 Chapter 141

    Ivy hesitated for a moment, the words on the tip of her tongue, but her emotions kept holding her back. She nced at Iris, whose face was already filled with shock and pain from all she had learned.


    How could she add more to that? Just as she was about to speak, the door to the hospital room swung open, and a nurse wheeled in Mrs. Jessica.


    Jessica looked frail but alert, her eyes scanning the room until theynded on Iris. Her expression softened, and she gasped, tears welling up in her eyes.


    ¡°My daughter,¡± Jessica whispered, her voice breaking. ¡°My sweet, sweet Iris.¡±At that moment, everything else faded away. Ivy¡¯s confession stalled in her throat as Jessica reached out her hand toward Iris, trembling.


    The reunion was so overwhelming that even Ivy, who had built up a wall around her heart, felt the warmth of the moment as tears pricked her eyes.¡±Mom?¡± Iris whispered, her voice fragile, a mix of joy and disbelief.


    Jessica reached out her hand, her fingers brushing Iris¡¯s cheek. ¡°Oh, Iris¡­ I never thought I¡¯d see you again. I¡¯m so sorry, my darling. I¡¯m so, so sorry.¡±Tears streamed down Iris¡¯s face as she stepped closer, kneeling beside Jessica¡¯s wheelchair. She took her mother¡¯s hand, pressing it to her cheek, her lips quivering.


    ¡°I missed you so much, Mom. I thought I¡¯d lost you forever.¡±Jessica let out a choked sob, stroking Iris¡¯s hair. ¡°I missed you too. Every single day, I dreamed of holding you again.¡± Her voice broke as she spoke, the years of separation weighing heavily on her soul.


    ¡°You were taken from me, but I never stopped looking for you.¡±Iris closed her eyes, soaking in the warmth of her mother¡¯s touch, the pain of her past momentarily easing in this reunion.


    She gently caressed her mother¡¯s face, as if confirming she was real. ¡°I¡¯m here, Mom. I¡¯m here now.¡±They embraced, their arms wrapped around each other, and for the first time in what felt like forever, Iris felt whole.


    The room was filled with their shared tears, and even Ryan and Ivy stood silently, giving them this moment. It was a reunion that had been long overdue.


    As they held each other, Jessica¡¯s eyes shifted toward Ivy, who stood a few feet away, watching with a mix of emotions on her face. Jessica extended her other hand toward Ivy. ¡°Come here, Ivy. Don¡¯t stand there like a stranger.


    ¡°Ivy hesitated for a split second before stepping forward. She kneeled beside Iris and Jessica, her heart racing. When Jessica wrapped her arm around her, pulling her into the hug, Ivy felt a warmth she hadn¡¯t felt in years.


    Tears streamed down her face as she joined the embrace.¡±I¡¯ve missed both my daughters,¡± Jessica said, her voice thick with emotion. Iris¡¯s head jerked up, her eyes wide with confusion.


    ¡°Both¡­ daughters?¡± she asked, pulling back slightly from the hug and looking between Jessica and Ivy.


    Ivy nced at her mother nervously. This was the moment she had been trying to exin earlier.


    Jessica, seeing the confusion and disbelief in Iris¡¯s eyes, knew it was time to reveal the truth.¡±Yes, Iris,¡± Jessica said softly, her hand still holding hers. ¡°There¡¯s something you need to know¡­ something I should have told you a long time ago.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean, Mom?¡± Iris asked, her voice shaky, her eyes flickering between her mother and Ivy. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±Jessica took a deep breath, her grip tightening on Iris¡¯s hand. ¡°Iris, Ivy isn¡¯t just someone you know. She isn¡¯t just part of the Kendrick family. She¡¯s your sister¡­ your twin sister.¡±


    The words hit Iris like a tidal wave. She pulled backpletely, standing up and taking a step away from both Jessica and Ivy. Her mind raced, trying to process what she had just heard. ¡°What¡­ no, that can¡¯t be true.¡±


    ¡°Iris,¡± Ivy said, her voice filled with emotion. ¡°I¡¯m your twin. I only found out recently. I didn¡¯t know, I swear.¡±Iris shook her head, backing up even further, her heart pounding. ¡°No. This can¡¯t be happening. How is that even possible? You¡¯re a Kendrick. I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m¡­¡±


    Jessica reached out toward her, tears streaming down her face. ¡°I gave birth to both of you, Iris. But after you were born, you were taken from me. I was forced to leave you behind. The Kendricks¡­ they took Ivy, and I had to leave. But I never stopped searching for you. I never stopped thinking about you.¡±


    Iris felt dizzy, her legs threatening to give out. She stumbled backward, reaching out to steady herself on the bed. ¡°This¡­ this is insane. I don¡¯t understand.¡±Ryan stepped closer, cing a hand on her back to steady her. ¡°Iris, take a deep breath. We¡¯ll figure this out.¡±This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    ¡°How could you have kept this from me?¡± Iris demanded, her voice rising, the betrayal clear in her tone as she looked at her mother. ¡°All these years and you never told me? You let me live thinking I was alone?¡±


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t tell you, Iris,¡± Jessica pleaded, her voice trembling. ¡°It was too dangerous. If I hade forward, they would have hurt you. They would have killed you. I had to protect you. You have no idea how much I wanted to tell you.¡±


    Ivy stepped forward cautiously, her voice gentle. ¡°Iris, please believe her. None of us knew the full truth. I didn¡¯t know about you until recently, either.¡±Iris turned to Ivy, her face a mix of disbelief and pain.


    ¡°And now you expect me to just ept this? To ept that we¡¯re sisters? Twins?¡±


    ¡°I know it¡¯s a lot,¡± Ivy said softly. ¡°But it¡¯s the truth.¡±Jessica nodded, wiping away her tears. ¡°I know it¡¯s overwhelming, Iris. But you need to understand that everything I did was to keep you safe. Both of you.¡±


    Iris was silent for a moment, her mind spinning. The weight of the revtions crushed her, and for a moment, it felt like the walls were closing in. She looked at her mother, at Ivy, and then back at Ryan. She didn¡¯t know how to feel. She didn¡¯t know what to believe anymore.


    ¡°I need to sit down,¡± Iris muttered, sinking into the chair beside her. Ryan sat down next to her, his arm around her shoulders. ¡°I¡¯m here, Iris. Whatever you need.¡±Iris¡¯s heart pounded in her chest. She stared at the floor, her fingers nervously twisting in herp.


    ¡°This can¡¯t be real. This feels like a nightmare.¡±Jessica rolled her wheelchair closer to Iris, taking her hand again. ¡°I wish I could have told you sooner. But I thought I was protecting you.¡±


    ¡°Protecting me?¡± Iris whispered bitterly. ¡°You were protecting me by keeping me away from my sister?¡±Jessica¡¯s face crumpled. ¡°I thought it was the only way, Iris. Please try to understand. I had no choice.¡±Iris shook her head, tears streaming down her cheeks.


    ¡°And what about Ivy? Howe she got to live in a rich family while I was¡­ out there, alone?¡±Iris, please,¡± Ivy said, her voice cracking. ¡°I didn¡¯t know. I didn¡¯t know you even existed until recently. If I had known¡­ I would have tried to find you.¡±Iris looked up at Ivy, her eyes filled with hurt.


    ¡°You grew up with everything, Ivy. Everything I didn¡¯t have. You had our mother, you had the Kendricks¡­ I had nothing. How is that fair?¡±


    ¡°Iris, I didn¡¯t know,¡± Ivy pleaded. ¡°I swear I didn¡¯t. And when I did find out, I wanted to make things right.¡±Iris looked away, wiping her tears, the flood of emotions too overwhelming. She felt betrayed, lost, and angry all at once.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I can ever forgive either of you.¡±Ryan squeezed her shoulder, his heart breaking for her. ¡°Iris, we¡¯ll figure this out, okay? You don¡¯t have to go through this alone.¡±


    Suddenly, there was a knock at the door, and a police officer entered the room. The tension in the room heightened as everyone turned to look at him.


    ¡°Sorry to interrupt,¡± the officer said, looking directly at Ryan. ¡°But we¡¯ve located Be. And there¡¯s more-there¡¯s information about the child.¡±


    Iris¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°My daughter?¡± she whispered, her voice trembling. The officer nodded grimly. ¡°We¡¯ve tracked down the buyer. We¡¯re moving in now. But there¡¯s something else you need to know¡­ Be¡¯s been talking. She¡¯s implicated more people.¡±Iris felt her blood run cold. ¡°What do you mean? Who else is involved?¡±


    The officer hesitated, ncing at Ryan before speaking. ¡°Victor.¡±Ryan¡¯s eyes darkened at the mention of the name. ¡°Victor?¡±The officer nodded. ¡°Be confessed that Victor was the one pulling the strings. He¡¯s been involved in the Kendrick Empire¡¯s dealings for years, and he orchestrated the kidnapping.


    We believe he¡¯s the one holding your child.¡±Iris gasped, her heart pounding in her chest. ¡°Victor has my baby?¡±The officer nodded.


    ¡°We¡¯re moving in to apprehend him now. But you need to be prepared-this isn¡¯t going to be easy.¡±Ryan stood up, his jaw clenched. ¡°We¡¯reing with you.¡±Iris¡¯s eyes filled with fear.

 Chapter 142

    Mrs. Rose paced anxiously around the hospital room, her heels clicking against the cold tile floor. She nced at her watch for the hundredth time, her impatience growing by the second.


    Where were Ivy and Ryan? What were they up to? Her thoughts were interrupted when she heard the door open. She turned swiftly, only to see Ryan step into the room, followed closely by Ivy. Relief washed over her for a split second, but it quickly faded as she saw the grim looks on their faces.


    Something was wrong.¡±Where have you two been?¡± Mrs. Rose demanded, crossing her arms over her chest. ¡°I¡¯ve been looking all over for you!¡±


    Ryan didn¡¯t respond immediately. His face was hard, his jaw clenched. Ivy, too, seemed distant, her eyes fixed on the floor as if she couldn¡¯t bear to meet her mother¡¯s gaze.


    Before Mrs. Rose could demand answers, a weak cough sounded from the hospital bed. Her husband, Mr. Kendrick, had woken up.


    Slowly, he turned his head toward her, his eyes filled with anger and betrayal. Mrs. Rose moved to take his hand, but the moment their fingers touched, Mr. Kendrick recoiled, yanking his hand away from hers as if her very touch burned him.


    ¡°You¡­ evil woman,¡± Mr. Kendrick rasped, his voice hoarse but filled with venom. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±Mrs. Rose flinched at the harshness of his words, her heart pounding. ¡°Darling, what are you talking about?¡± she asked, her voice trembling. ¡°I¡¯m your wife. I¡¯ve been by your side-¡±


    ¡°Get out,¡± Mr. Kendrick spat, his voice growing louder, angrier. ¡°Get out now. I don¡¯t want to see you.¡±His outburst sent a chill through the room. Mrs. Rose took a step back, her hands trembling. This wasn¡¯t the weak, sick man she had been tending to for weeks.


    This was a man filled with rage.¡±I-I don¡¯t understand,¡± Mrs. Rose stammered, her voice cracking.¡±You know exactly what I¡¯m talking about,¡± Mr. Kendrick growled, his eyes narrowing as tears welled up.


    ¡°You tried to kill me. You¡¯ve been poisoning me, haven¡¯t you? You wanted me out of the way so you could continue your filthy affair with my best friend.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose¡¯s blood turned to ice. ¡°What? That¡¯s absurd! How could you even think that?¡±Ryan and Ivy stood still, neither surprised nor shocked. They both had been waiting for this moment. The truth was finallying out.


    ¡°Shut your mouth, Rose!¡± Mr. Kendrick snapped, his chest heaving as he struggled to control his breathing. ¡°I¡¯ve done everything for you. I gave you everything you ever wanted, and this¡­ this is how you repay me? By betraying me with Parker?¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s mind raced. How did he know? She had been so careful, so meticulous.


    There was no way he could have found out. ¡°You don¡¯t know what you¡¯re saying,¡± she whispered, trying to regain control of the situation. ¡°Your health¡­ it¡¯s affecting your mind.¡±Mr. Kendrickughed bitterly, his tears flowing freely now.


    ¡°You think I¡¯m that far gone, don¡¯t you? Do you think I don¡¯t see it? All those years¡­ all the lies¡­ and Parker¡­ Parker of all people.¡±


    Mrs. Rose opened her mouth to deny it, to say anything that would deflect the usation, but before she could form a coherent response, the door to the room opened again.


    Her eyes widened in shock as Iris and Mrs. Jessica entered the room, both standing tall with a resolute expression.


    Iris¡¯s gaze flickered toward her mother briefly, but then she turned her attention to Mr. Kendrick. ¡°Dad,¡± she said softly, stepping closer to the bed, her voice filled withpassion.


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s heart nearly stopped. Dad? Did she just call him Dad? What was going on? She looked at Jessica, the woman she hadn¡¯t seen in years, standing next to her daughter, her posture strong despite her frailty.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Mrs. Rose muttered, taking a step backward, her face pale. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be here. You were supposed to be dead.¡±Jessica smiled grimly. ¡°You didn¡¯t kill me as easily as you thought, Rose.¡±Mr. Kendrick¡¯s eyes widened as he looked between the two women, understanding dawning on him.


    His eyes locked onto Jessica¡¯s face. ¡°Jessica?¡± he whispered, his voice trembling. ¡°Is it you?¡±Jessica nodded, her eyes softening.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s me. I¡¯m alive. And there¡¯s something you need to know about Iris.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s mouth went dry as her worst fears started to unfold. She had no control anymore.


    The secrets she had buried deep for so long were beginning to unravel, and she could feel the ground slipping beneath her feet. Iris stepped forward, her expression torn between anger and sadness.


    ¡°Dad¡­ you need to know that I¡¯m not just some random girl who worked her way into your family. I¡¯m your daughter. I¡¯m Ivy¡¯s twin sister.¡±Mr. Kendrick¡¯s face paled. His eyes darted from Iris to Ivy and then back to Jessica.


    ¡°What¡­? How? How is this possible?¡±Mrs. Jessica¡¯s eyes filled with tears as she began to exin.


    ¡°Years ago, when the twins were born, Rose stole Ivy from me. She took her and raised her as her own. And I was left with nothing¡­ I had to go into hiding because of what Rose did.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose¡¯s chest tightened as she watched Mr. Kendrick¡¯s face contort with disbelief. She had been found out. The carefully woven lies were crumbling, and she couldn¡¯t stop it.¡±You¡­ you took one of my daughters?¡± Mr. Kendrick croaked, his voice shaking with emotion. ¡°Why? Why would you do something like that?¡±


    ¡°Because I had to!¡± Mrs. Rose finally snapped, the frustration and panic boiling over. ¡°You don¡¯t understand what it was like! I had nothing! No power, no control. I did what I had to do to survive. I was protecting us!¡±


    ¡°Protecting us?¡± Ivy scoffed, finally speaking up, her voice filled with disbelief. ¡°Mom, this whole time, you¡¯ve been lying to all of us. To me, to Dad, to Ryan. Do you even care about anyone but yourself?¡±Mrs. Rose turned to her daughter, her face twisted with desperation.


    ¡°Ivy, I did it for you. Everything I did, I did it so that we could have a better life so that we wouldn¡¯t be thrown out and left with nothing!¡±


    ¡°You mean everything you did was for yourself,¡± Ryan interjected coldly. ¡°You¡¯ve been manipting and lying to everyone. And now it¡¯s over.¡±


    Mrs. Rose looked at Ryan, her son, the only person she thought might still stand by her. But his eyes were hard, filled with disdain. There was no sympathy left for her. She was alone.


    Tears welled up in Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes as she turned back to her husband. ¡°Please, Kendrick, you have to believe me. I didn¡¯t mean for it to go this far. I didn¡¯t want to hurt you. I-


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick shook his head slowly, his face awash with pain and anger. ¡°It¡¯s toote for that, Rose. It¡¯s toote for everything.¡±Mrs. Rose took a step forward, but Jessica quickly interjected her voice firm.


    ¡°It¡¯s over, Rose. You¡¯ve caused enough damage. You¡¯ve torn apart enough lives. Now it¡¯s time to face the consequences.¡±Mrs. Rose trembled, her carefully constructed world crumbling at her feet. She opened her mouth to speak, to try and salvage what little remained, but the door burst open again, this time with the arrival of two police officers.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose Kendrick,¡± one of the officers said, stepping forward. ¡°You are under arrest for attempted murder, conspiracy, and fraud. You have the right to remain silent-¡± Mrs. Rose¡¯s heart raced as the officer pulled out handcuffs. ¡°No! You can¡¯t do this! You can¡¯t arrest me!¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯ll find we can,¡± Jessica said calmly, her eyes locked onto Rose¡¯s. ¡°It¡¯s time you answered for everything you¡¯ve done.¡±The officers moved in, quickly handcuffing Mrs. Rose despite her protests. She struggled, turning to Ryan, to Ivy, to anyone who might help her, but all she saw were cold, unsympathetic faces.


    As the officers began to lead her out of the room, Mrs. Rose turned onest time to Mr. Kendrick, tears streaming down her face. ¡°Please¡­ Kendrick¡­ you have to believe me. I didn¡¯t mean for this to happen.¡±Mr. Kendrick looked away, his heart shattered.


    ¡°You¡¯ve destroyed everything, Rose. I don¡¯t want to see you again.¡±And with that, Mrs. Rose was taken out of the room, her sobs echoing down the hallway.


    Silence fell over the room, the weight of the revtions sinking in. Iris, Ivy, and Ryan stood together, processing everything that had just happened. Mr. Kendricky back against his pillows, tears still glistening in his eyes.


    Jessica stepped closer to him, gently cing her hand on his arm. ¡°It¡¯s over now,¡± she whispered. ¡°You can heal. We all can.¡±But as the family began to take in the reality of their new situation, a sudden knock on the door interrupted their brief moment of peace.


    A nurse entered the room, her face pale.¡± Mr. Kendrick,¡± she said, her voice trembling. ¡°

 Chapter 143

    The tension in the room was so thick it felt as though it could suffocate them all. Mrs. Rose stood frozen, her heart hammering against her chest as her eyes darted from Jessica to Kendrick and then to her children.


    Her worst nightmare was unraveling before her eyes, and there was no escape. Kendrick, too, was motionless, his face a mixture of disbelief and confusion.


    His eyes met Jessica¡¯s, and a flood of memories rushed back-memories he had buried for years. He tried to speak, but the words caught in his throat.


    ¡°Je¡­ Jessica?¡± Kendrick¡¯s voice was barely above a whisper, his shock palpable. Ryan, standing by his father¡¯s bedside, turned to Kendrick, his brows furrowed in confusion.


    ¡°Dad, do you know her?¡±Jessica stood tall, her eyes zing with the fire of long-buried resentment. She ignored Ryan¡¯s question and locked eyes with Mrs. Rose, whose face was now dripping with cold sweat. Rose¡¯s hands trembled as she took a step backward, herposure slipping with every second.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    ¡°No¡­ no, it can¡¯t be. Jessica?¡± Rose¡¯s voice was thin, almost pleading, as if she hoped this was some twisted illusion.


    Kendrick bent his head, staring at the floor in disbelief. How had ite to this? His past, once hidden so carefully, now stood in front of him, demanding acknowledgment.


    ¡°Surprised?¡± Jessica¡¯s voice cut through the silence like a de.


    ¡°You thought I was dead, didn¡¯t you? After you sent your men to end my life.¡±Kendrick¡¯s head snapped up at her words. ¡°What?¡± he gasped, his confusion turning to shock.


    His eyes flicked from Jessica to Rose, his mind reeling. Jessica took a step closer to Kendrick, her gaze hardening. ¡°Yes, Kendrick. Your beloved wife here sent some men after me to kill me when I left your house all those years ago. Do you want to know why? Because she found out I knew about her little secret affair with Parker, your best friend.


    ¡°The room fell silent. The only sound was the faint beeping of the heart monitor attached to Kendrick, each beep sounding like a countdown to a final reckoning. Mrs. Rose¡¯s face contorted with fury as she took a step forward, her voice rising in a sharp, desperate tone.


    ¡°Oh, shut up, you swine!¡± Rose barked, her voice trembling. ¡°You don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about!¡±But before she could say more, Ivy stepped forward, her eyes zing with anger. ¡°I think you should be the one to shut up-not my mother.¡±


    The words hung in the air like a dagger poised to strike. Mrs. Rose¡¯s mouth fell open, her eyes wide in shock as she turned to Ivy. ¡°How dare you?¡± she spat, her voice quivering. ¡°What is that supposed to mean? What do you mean, ¡®your mother¡¯?¡±


    Ivy¡¯s face was a mask of calm, but her words were sharp, cutting through the tension with precision. ¡°You¡¯re not my mother, Rose. You have no right to talk to me like that.¡±


    Kendrick, still sitting on the hospital bed, stared at Ivy in confusion, his mind struggling to process the whirlwind of revtions.


    ¡°And what¡­ what does that mean, Ivy?¡± His voice was weak, filled with both fear and desperation.


    Ivy crossed her arms, her eyes never leaving Rose¡¯s. ¡°I think you know the answer to that, Dad,¡± she said coldly.


    Kendrick turned to Ryan, who had remained silent, but the look on his son¡¯s face told him everything he needed to know. His heart sank.¡±Dad, we know the truth,¡± Ryan finally spoke, his voice steady but filled with a quiet fury.


    ¡°We know about Mom and her affair with Dr. Parker. We know she¡¯s been lying to you for years. And we know about you and Mrs. Jessica.¡±


    Kendrick¡¯s face turned pale, his eyes wide in disbelief. ¡°Ryan¡­ what are you saying?¡±Ryan took a deep breath, steeling himself.


    ¡°We know you had an affair with Jessica. We know you got her pregnant and threw her out of the house when Mom framed her up.¡±


    The weight of the truth mmed into Kendrick like a sledgehammer. He stared at Jessica, the woman he had betrayed, and then at his children, the ones who had been caught in the crossfire of lies and deceit.


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s face twisted with rage, her calm demeanor shattering. ¡°This is ridiculous!¡± she screamed, her voice shrill. ¡°You¡¯re all delusional! Kendrick, don¡¯t listen to them. They don¡¯t know what they¡¯re talking about!¡±


    But Kendrick wasn¡¯t listening to Rose. His mind was spinning, the weight of his actions crushing him. ¡°I threw her out,¡± he whispered to himself, his voice hollow. ¡°I threw her out¡­ and I didn¡¯t even know¡­¡±Jessica¡¯s face softened for a moment, a flicker of the love she had once felt for Kendrick passing through her eyes.


    But it was quickly reced by the bitterness of years spent in the shadows.¡±You threw me out,¡± Jessica said, her voice calm but filled with pain.


    ¡°You abandoned me. And you abandoned our children.¡±


    ¡°Children?¡± Kendrick repeated, his voice barely audible. ¡°What¡­ what do you mean, children?¡±Ivy stepped forward, standing next to Jessica. ¡°I¡¯m not Rose¡¯s daughter,¡± she said bluntly, her voice unwavering. ¡°I¡¯m Jessica¡¯s. And so is Iris.¡±


    Kendrick¡¯s heart stopped. ¡°What?¡± He looked between Ivy and Jessica, his mind struggling toprehend the enormity of what he was hearing.


    ¡°No¡­ that can¡¯t be. That¡¯s impossible, I thought we were lying when you told me you had twins.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true,¡± Jessica said quietly. ¡°Rose took Ivy from me. She raised her as her own, while I was left with nothing. And Iris¡­ Iris grew up never knowing who her real father was.¡±Kendrick¡¯s hands began to tremble. ¡°No¡­ this can¡¯t be¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the truth, Kendrick,¡± Jessica continued. ¡°And now you¡¯re going to face the consequences of your actions. You¡¯re going to face the truth, whether you like it or not.¡±


    Mrs. Rose, her face flushed with anger, took a step forward, her hands balled into fists. ¡°I¡¯ve had enough of this!¡± she screamed. ¡°Kendrick, don¡¯t listen to them! They¡¯re trying to manipte you. They want to tear our family apart!¡±


    But Kendrick didn¡¯t respond. He couldn¡¯t. He felt as though the ground beneath him had given way, leaving him to fall into an endless abyss of regret and guilt. How had he let this happen? How had he allowed his life to be such a web of lies?¡±


    Mom,¡± Ivy said suddenly, her voice cold. ¡°You don¡¯t get to y the victim here. You¡¯ve been lying to all of us for years. You¡¯ve been poisoning Dad with your lies, and we¡¯re done with it.¡±


    Ryan stepped closer to Ivy, nodding in agreement.


    ¡°You¡¯ve destroyed this family, Mom. And it¡¯s time for the truth toe out.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s face twisted with fury as she pointed an using finger at Jessica. ¡°This is all your fault! You came back and ruined everything! We were fine before you showed up!¡±Jessica shook her head, her expression calm.


    ¡°No, Rose. Your lies ruined everything. Not me.¡±Before Mrs. Rose could respond, the door to the room opened again, and two police officers entered, their faces stern.¡± Mrs. Rose Kendrick,¡± one of them said, stepping forward. ¡°You¡¯re under arrest for attempted murder, conspiracy, and fraud. You have the right to remain silent.¡±


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes widened in horror as the officers moved toward her, pulling out a pair of handcuffs. ¡°No!¡± she screamed, her voice breaking with panic. ¡°You can¡¯t do this! Kendrick, tell them! Tell them this is a mistake!¡±


    But Kendrick didn¡¯t move. He didn¡¯t say a word. He simply stared at her, his face filled with a mixture of sadness and disgust.


    As the officers cuffed Mrs. Rose, she thrashed, trying to break free. ¡°You can¡¯t do this to me! I¡¯m your wife! I¡¯m the mother of your children!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not my mother,¡± Ivy said coldly, her voice echoing through the room. Mrs. Rose¡¯s eyes filled with tears as she looked at Ryan, pleading.


    ¡°Ryan, please¡­ you can¡¯t let them take me. I¡¯m your mother.¡±Ryan¡¯s face hardened his voice void of any emotion. ¡°You stopped being my mother the moment you betrayed all of us.


    ¡°With that, the officers led Mrs. Rose out of the room, her sobs echoing down the hallway.


    The silence that followed was heavy as if the weight of everything that had just happened was pressing down on them all.


    Jessica ced a hand on Kendrick¡¯s arm, her voice soft. ¡°It¡¯s over now, Kendrick.¡±But Kendrick shook his head, his eyes filled with sorrow.


    ¡°No¡­ it¡¯s not over. It¡¯ll never be over.¡±Just as the words left his lips, the door to the room swung open onest time.


    A nurse rushed in, her face pale with urgency.¡± Mr. Kendrick,¡± she said breathlessly, her eyes wide with panic. ¡°It¡¯s Iris. Something¡¯s wrong. She¡¯s gone missing.¡±


    The room erupted in chaos, but all Kendrick could do was sit in stunned silence, the weight of his broken family crashing down around him.

 Chapter 144

    The silence that followed Mr. Kendrick¡¯s confession was deafening. Everyone in the room seemed frozen, processing the weight of his words.


    Mrs. Rose¡¯s face was a mixture of shock and rage, her hands trembling as she gripped the back of a chair for support. Ryan and Ivy exchanged uneasy nces, while Jessica stood still, her expression unreadable, though her eyes glistened with the pain of memories that had long since scarred her.


    Kendrick took a deep breath, his voice thick with regret as he continued. ¡°I was in love with Jessica,¡± he admitted, his eyes locked on the floor as if unable to meet anyone¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°We were both so young, and I couldn¡¯t resist her. But I was already married to Rose. There was no way I could marry Jessica. I was the heir to the Kendrick family fortune, and it would have been a scandal-a disgrace-to have an affair and a child out of wedlock.


    ¡°Rose scoffed, her voiceced with venom. ¡°So instead, you chose to keep me in the dark and raise the child of your mistress under my nose?¡± she spat. ¡°You lied to me, Kendrick! You betrayed me!¡±Kendrick winced at her words, his guilt heavy on his shoulders.


    ¡°I know,¡± he said quietly. ¡°I¡¯m not proud of what I did. But when Jessica reached out to me, telling me she had given birth to twins and couldn¡¯t care for both, I didn¡¯t know what else to do. She asked me to take one, and I¡­ I couldn¡¯t say no.¡±He paused, ncing at Ivy, who was staring at him in stunned silence, her entire world crumbling beneath her feet.¡±I took Ivy home,¡± Kendrick continued, his voice strained.


    ¡°When Rose asked where the child came from, I lied. I told her that I had found a baby abandoned on the side of the road, crying and that I couldn¡¯t just leave her there. I said I had my driver pick her up, and I brought her home. I told her it was fate.¡±


    ¡°So you lied to me?¡± Rose¡¯s voice trembled, her eyes wide with disbelief. ¡°Ivy is your mistress¡¯s child?¡±Kendrick nodded, his eyes filled with regret.


    ¡°Yes. And I regret it every single day. Iid low for a while after that, hoping you would stop suspecting me, hoping I could keep the secret buried. But as time passed, I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Jessica, about the other child I left behind. I tried reaching out to her, but by then, she was gone. There was no way to find her. That¡¯s when I thought I lost them both.¡±


    Jessica¡¯s lips parted, her voice soft but filled with years of pent-up sorrow. ¡°You didn¡¯t lose us, Kendrick. You abandoned us.¡±Her words hit Kendrick like a punch to the gut. His face contorted in pain, but he didn¡¯t try to defend himself.


    He knew she was right. He had abandoned her, and now there was nothing he could say to make it right. Ivy stepped forward, her face pale as she looked at Kendrick, her hands shaking. ¡°So¡­ so all this time¡­ you knew?¡±


    Her voice wavered as she spoke, tears welling up in her eyes. ¡°You knew who my real mother was, and you didn¡¯t tell me?¡±Kendrick¡¯s heart broke at the sight of his daughter¡¯s pain.


    ¡°Ivy, I¡­¡± he began, but his voice faltered. What could he say to make her understand? How could he justify the years of lies?¡±I deserved to know the truth!¡± Ivy cried, her voice rising in anger and hurt.


    ¡°I had the right to know who I was, where I came from! Instead, you let me believe that I was abandoned on the side of the road like some unwanted child!¡± Her voice cracked, and she turned to Jessica, her eyes brimming with tears.


    ¡°And you¡­ you just gave me away?¡±Jessica¡¯s expression softened, her own eyes filled with tears. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to, Ivy,¡± she said softly. ¡°But I was alone, and I had no way to care for two children. I thought if I gave you to your father, you¡¯d have a better life, a better future. I didn¡¯t know¡­ I didn¡¯t know it would turn out like this.


    ¡°Ivy shook her head, tears streaming down her face. ¡°I was just a pawn to all of you,¡± she whispered, her voice trembling. ¡°A pawn in your lies and betrayals.¡±


    ¡°Ivy, please,¡± Kendrick said, stepping toward her, his heart breaking. ¡°I know I made mistakes. I know I hurt you. But I loved you. I still love you.¡±


    Ivy took a step back, her eyes filled with pain. ¡°You don¡¯t know what love is,¡± she said bitterly. ¡°You lied to me my entire life. How can you call that love?¡±


    Ryan, who had been silent throughout the entire exchange, finally spoke up. His voice was low but filled with a quiet anger that had been simmering beneath the surface.


    ¡°And what about me?¡± he asked, his eyes narrowing at Kendrick. ¡°Did you think about me at all while you were ying house with your mistress and her children?¡±Kendrick¡¯s eyes widened, and he shook his head.


    ¡°Ryan, no. It wasn¡¯t like that. I never meant to hurt you.¡±Ryan let out a bitterugh. ¡°You never meant to hurt me? You¡¯ve been lying to us for years, Dad! You¡¯ve been lying to all of us! How do you expect us to believe anything you say now?¡±


    Kendrick¡¯s shoulders sagged, the weight of his mistakes too heavy to bear. ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± he admitted quietly. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to make this right. All I can say is that I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°Sorry?¡± Ryan¡¯s voice was filled with disbelief. ¡°Sorry doesn¡¯t cut it, Dad. You destroyed this family. You let lies and secrets fester until there was nothing left.¡±


    Rose, who had been listening in stunned silence, suddenly let out a sharp, bitterugh. ¡°Oh, this is rich,¡± she said, her voice filled with venom. ¡°You were so worried about keeping up appearances, Kendrick. So worried about the scandal. And look where we are now. The perfect Kendrick family shattered into pieces.¡±


    She turned to Jessica, her eyes burning with fury. ¡°You came back here to ruin everything, didn¡¯t you? You couldn¡¯t just stay dead. You had toe back and drag all these secrets out into the light.¡±


    Jessica met her gaze, unflinching. ¡°I didn¡¯te back to ruin anything, Rose. I came back for my daughters. I came back for the truth.¡±


    ¡°The truth?¡± Rose sneered. ¡°The truth is that you were nothing more than a fling, a dirty little secret that Kendrick was ashamed of. You were never going to be part of this family.¡±


    ¡°Stop it, Rose!¡± Kendrick snapped, his voice shaking with anger. ¡°You¡¯ve lied just as much as I have. Don¡¯t act like you¡¯re some innocent victim in all of this.


    ¡°Rose¡¯s face twisted in rage, and she took a step toward Kendrick. ¡°Oh, don¡¯t you dare try to pin this on me! You¡¯re the one who cheated! You¡¯re the one who brought a bastard child into this house!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± Ryan¡¯s voice cut through the chaos, sharp andmanding. He stepped forward, his eyes cold as he looked between his parents.


    ¡°Both of you. Just stop. We¡¯ve heard enough lies for a lifetime.¡±The room fell into an uneasy silence, the weight of Ryan¡¯s words settling over them like a heavy fog.


    Ivy wiped the tears from her face, her voice shaky but determined. ¡°I¡¯m done with this,¡± she said quietly. ¡°I¡¯m done with all of you.¡±Jessica reached out to her, her voice filled with concern.


    ¡°Ivy, please, don¡¯t go. We can figure this out.¡±But Ivy shook her head, stepping away from her mother¡¯s reach. ¡°No. I need time. I need to think. I can¡¯t do this right now.¡±


    With that, Ivy turned and walked toward the door, her footsteps heavy with the weight of betrayal.


    As the door closed behind her, Jessica let out a soft sob, her shoulders shaking with the effort to hold back her tears.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Kendrick watched her, his heart breaking all over again. He had destroyed everything-his family, his rtionships, his chance at redemption.


    Ryan crossed his arms, his eyes still cold as he looked at his father. ¡°I don¡¯t know if this family can be saved,¡± he said quietly. ¡°But I know one thing: things are never going to be the same again.¡±


    Just then, the door to the room burst open, and a nurse rushed in, her face pale with fear.¡± Mr. Kendrick!¡± she eximed, her voice trembling.


    ¡°We have a problem. Your daughter Ivy¡­ she¡¯s copsed.¡±Everyone froze, the words hanging in the air like a death sentence.


    ¡°Copsed?¡± Kendrick repeated his voice barely a whisper. The nurse nodded, her eyes wide with panic.


    The room erupted into chaos, but Kendrick could only sit in stunned silence, the weight of his broken family finally crashing down around him.

 Chapter 145

    The room was suffocating. Ryan sat up straighter in his hospital bed, his eyes narrowing as Luca entered, his expression grim. The air felt thick with anticipation as everyone waited for the news.


    Luca cleared his throat and looked directly at Ryan. ¡°The anonymous messenger? It was Sarah-your house help,¡± he said quietly. Ryan¡¯s brows furrowed in confusion.


    ¡°Sarah?¡± He nced at Ivy, then back at Luca. ¡°What do you mean? She¡¯s just a housemaid. Why would she-¡± ¡°She¡¯s been traced and caught,¡± Luca interrupted his voice firm. ¡°We got her while she was trying to flee the country. She¡¯s been feeding information to your enemies, Ryan. She¡¯s been working with Mrs. Rose.¡±


    The room went still. Ivy gasped, her hand flying to her mouth, and Kendrick¡¯s face drained of color. Mrs. Rose stood frozen, her eyes wide in disbelief as all eyes turned toward her.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    ¡°What¡­ what are you saying?¡± Ryan¡¯s voice was low, but it shook with barely restrained anger.¡±She confessed everything,¡± Luca continued, his gaze not leaving Ryan¡¯s. ¡°She¡¯s been working with your mother, feeding them information about you and Iris. She was also responsible for your food poisoning. That was all orchestrated by Sarah, under Mrs. Rose¡¯s orders.¡±


    The room erupted into a flurry of shocked whispers. Ivy looked as if she might faint, and Jessica¡¯s face twisted in anger as she stepped forward, her voice cold and full of venom.¡± I was right,¡± Jessica said through clenched teeth.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose was the one who nned my kidnapping from the hospital. She wanted me gone. She¡¯s been orchestrating everything.¡±Mrs. Rose¡¯s face twisted in panic, and she shook her head, stepping backward as if trying to distance herself from the usations.


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t understand what she¡¯s saying,¡± she stammered, her voice high-pitched with fear. ¡°I don¡¯t even know Sarah! Please, you have to believe me!¡± Kendrick, standing beside her, remained silent, his face unreadable.


    But Ryan¡¯s gaze hardened as he watched his mother, betrayal etched into his features.¡±It¡¯s over, Rose,¡± came a familiar voice from the doorway. Everyone turned as Dr. Parker entered, nked by two police officers. His face was pale, his eyes filled with regret, and there was a strange calmness to his voice as he spoke.


    ¡°What are you talking about, Parker?¡± Rose asked, her voice shaking as the officers stepped closer to her. ¡°What do you mean?¡±Dr. Parker sighed deeply, looking at her with sorrow. ¡°You should have never married him, Rose,¡± he said quietly, almost as if he werementing their past.


    ¡°We belonged to each other. But you married Kendrick, and look at the mess we¡¯re in now.¡±Rose¡¯s face twisted in confusion, panic growing as the pieces of the puzzle began falling into ce for her.


    ¡°What are you saying?¡± she demanded, her voice rising in hysteria. ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense, Parker! Why are you here with the police?¡±Parker turned to Kendrick, his face filled with remorse.


    ¡°Kendrick,¡± he said softly, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry. For everything. Please, forgive me.¡±Kendrick¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change. His eyes remained locked on Parker, his jaw clenched, but he said nothing.


    The weight of the betrayal that had juste to light was too heavy for words. As the police officers stepped forward, one of them spoke calmly, his hand resting on his belt.


    ¡°Mrs. Rose Kendrick,¡± he said formally, ¡°you are under arrest for conspiracy, attempted murder, and essory to multiple criminal activities.¡± ¡°No!¡± Rose cried, stepping back further, her eyes wide with terror as she nced between her husband and the officers.


    ¡°No, this is a mistake! You can¡¯t do this to me! Kendrick, help me! Say something!¡±But Kendrick didn¡¯t move. His silence spoke volumes. Rose¡¯s breath came in short, panicked gasps as she tried to flee, but one of the officers grabbed her by the arm.


    ¡°You can¡¯t do this!¡± she shrieked, resisting with all her strength. ¡°Kendrick! Ryan! Ivy! Help me! Please!¡±Ryan watched, his heart heavy with a mixture of anger and sorrow, as his mother struggled against the officers.


    But he didn¡¯t move to help her. Neither did Ivy. There was no saving her now.


    ¡°It¡¯s toote, Rose,¡± Dr. Parker said softly. ¡°It¡¯s over.¡±Tears streamed down Rose¡¯s face as she fought against the officers, her voice cracking with desperation.


    ¡°Ken, ken, please! I did it for us! For our family! Everything I did was for us!¡±Kendrick¡¯s eyes finally met hers, and for the first time, he spoke.


    His voice was low, almost a whisper, but it was filled with a deep sadness. ¡°You destroyed this family, Rose. Not me. Not anyone else. You.¡±Rose let out a choked sob, her knees giving out as the officers cuffed her hands behind her back.


    ¡°No,¡± she whispered, her voice broken. ¡°No¡­¡±As the officers began leading her out of the room, she kept looking back, her eyes pleading for someone to save her. But no one did. Ryan, Ivy, Kendrick, and Jessica watched in silence as she was dragged away, her sobs echoing down the hallway until they faded into the distance.


    When the door finally closed behind her, the room fell into an uneasy silence. Ryan let out a shaky breath, running a hand through his hair as he tried to process everything that had just happened.¡±I can¡¯t believe it,¡± Ivy whispered, her voice trembling.


    ¡°Our mother¡­ she¡­¡±Ryan nced at her, his face filled with bitterness. ¡°She betrayed us, Ivy. All these years¡­ she was never the person we thought she was.


    ¡°Kendrick sat down in one of the chairs, his face pale and drawn. ¡°I should have seen it,¡± he muttered, mostly to himself. ¡°I should have known.¡± ¡°No one could have predicted this, Kendrick,¡± Jessica said softly, her voice filled with a quiet resolve.


    ¡°Rose hid her secrets well. But now¡­ now it¡¯s all out in the open.¡±Dr. Parker, who had remained silent since Rose¡¯s departure, cleared his throat and stepped forward. His face was filled with remorse as he looked at Kendrick, but also at Ryan and Ivy.


    ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry,¡± he said, his voice heavy with guilt. ¡°I know there¡¯s nothing I can say to make up for what happened. I was blinded by my feelings for Rose, and I let things get out of control. I never wanted it to end like this.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s eyes shed with anger as he stepped closer to Parker, his voice tight with fury. ¡°You knew everything,¡± he said through clenched teeth.


    ¡°You helped her. You were part of this from the start, and now you¡¯re here apologizing? It¡¯s toote for that, Parker.¡±Parker hung his head, his shoulders sagging under the weight of his guilt. ¡°I know,¡± he whispered. ¡°I know it¡¯s toote.¡±


    Just then, another officer entered the room, his face grim as he approached Kendrick. ¡°Mr. Kendrick, we¡¯ve also uncovered more information regarding Sarah. It seems she wasn¡¯t acting alone. There¡¯s someone else who¡¯s been orchestrating things from behind the scenes.¡±


    Kendrick¡¯s eyes shot up, his face filled with confusion. ¡°Someone else? Who?¡±The officer nodded. ¡°Yes. We¡¯re still investigating, but it appears that there may be someone else involved-someone higher up, pulling the strings.¡±


    Ryan exchanged a worried nce with Ivy. ¡°Higher up? Who could it be?¡± ¡°We¡¯re not sure yet,¡± the officer replied, ¡°but we¡¯re following leads. We believe this person is the real mastermind behind everything that¡¯s happened, including the food poisoning, the kidnapping, and even Rose¡¯s involvement.¡±


    Jessica¡¯s face darkened as she listened to the officer¡¯s words. She had suspected there was more to the story, but this confirmation sent a chill down her spine.¡±So, Rose wasn¡¯t the one in charge?¡± Ivy asked, her voice filled with disbelief.


    ¡°She was just¡­ being used?¡± ¡°Possibly,¡± the officer replied. ¡°But until we gather more information, we can¡¯t say for certain.¡±


    A heavy silence fell over the room as everyone processed the news. The revtion that there was someone else involved, someone pulling the strings from the shadows, left them all on edge.


    ¡°What now?¡± Ryan asked, his voice filled with frustration. ¡°How do we stop this?¡±The officer shook his head. ¡°We¡¯re working on it. But for now, all I can say is to be cautious. Whoever this person is, they¡¯re dangerous. And they¡¯re not done yet.


    ¡°The weight of his words hung in the air like a dark cloud, casting a shadow over everyone in the room. Ryan clenched his fists, a mixture of anger and determination burning in his eyes. ¡°We¡¯ll find them,¡± he said quietly.


    ¡°Whoever they are¡­ we¡¯ll find them.¡±Kendrick stood up, his face filled with resolve. ¡°We¡¯ll bring them down. Together.¡±As the group stood in the hospital room, united by their shared resolve and the weight of their shattered past, they knew that the fight wasn¡¯t over.


    And somewhere, in the shadows, their unseen enemy was still watching, waiting for the right moment to strike. The battle had just begun.

 Chapter 146

    The tension in the room had begun to settle after the police escorted Mrs. Rose and Dr. Parker out in handcuffs. The silence that followed felt like the calm after a storm, but there was still an air of unease.


    Mr. Kendrick stood in the center of the room, his expression heavy with guilt and regret. He turned toward Jessica, who stood with her arms crossed, looking as though she wasn¡¯t quite sure what to make of him yet. Ivy and Iris, standing side by side, had barely spoken a word since everything unfolded.


    Kendrick cleared his throat, his voice thick with emotion. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he began, his eyes filled with sincerity as he faced Jessica and the twins.


    ¡°Jessica, Iris, Ivy¡­ I know words aren¡¯t enough to make up for the years I¡¯ve spent apart from you all, the lies, and everything else that¡¯s happened.


    But please believe me when I say that I¡¯ve regretted every single moment I wasn¡¯t with you.¡±Iris remained silent, her face pale from shock, while Ivy¡¯s gaze flickered between Jessica and Kendrick, trying to process the truth of her lineage.


    Jessica¡¯s features softened just slightly as she watched Kendrick struggle with his words.¡±I had no idea¡­ no idea what Rose was capable of, no idea how deep her betrayal went. But that doesn¡¯t excuse my own choices,¡± Kendrick continued, his voice breaking as he looked at Iris and Ivy.


    ¡°I¡¯m your father, and I¡¯ve wronged you both. I¡¯ve wronged Jessica. I should have been there for you, but I let my cowardice and fear get in the way.¡±Iris blinked, finally finding her voice, though it was quiet and trembling.


    ¡°Mum¡­ is everything he¡¯s saying true?¡± She turned to Jessica, her wide eyes searching for confirmation, for something that made sense in this whirlwind of revtions.


    Jessica gave a slow, almost imperceptible nod. ¡°Yes, honey,¡± she said, her voice filled with resignation and a touch of sadness.


    ¡°Everything is true. Mr. Kendrick is your father¡­ and Ivy¡¯s.¡± Iris¡¯s knees buckled as the weight of the truth hit her, and she stumbled back against the bed, her hands gripping the edge for support. Ivy stepped forward, her eyes shing with anger and confusion.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell us?¡± she demanded, looking between Kendrick and Jessica. ¡°All this time¡­ we didn¡¯t know. We had a right to know!¡±


    ¡°I wanted to protect you,¡± Jessica said, her eyes brimming with tears. ¡°It was dangerous. Rose¡­ Rose was capable of anything, and I didn¡¯t want to risk your life. I thought staying hidden was the only way.¡±Kendrick¡¯s expression crumpled as he opened his arms, his eyes pleading for forgiveness.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry,¡± he whispered. ¡°Ivy, Iris, I don¡¯t expect you to forgive me right away. But I love you both. You¡¯re my daughters, and I¡¯m so proud of the women you¡¯ve be, even without me.¡±Ivy hesitated for a moment, her chest rising and falling with the intensity of her emotions, before she took a shaky step forward.


    She reached out, and with a sob that broke through herposed exterior, she embraced Kendrick tightly. Iris, still in shock, followed suit, wrapping her arms around her father and Ivy as tears streamed down her face.


    Kendrick held them both close, his tears slipping down his cheeks. ¡°I¡¯ll make it right,¡± he promised. ¡°I swear I will.¡±The room was filled with the sound of quiet sobs and whispered reassurances, but the moment was broken by the sudden ringing of Ryan¡¯s phone.


    He pulled it from his pocket, ncing at the screen before answering.¡±Hello?¡± Ryan¡¯s tone was sharp, but his expression shifted quickly from irritation to surprise.


    ¡°Wait-what? Are you sure? You¡¯ve caught her?¡±Everyone in the room turned to Ryan, the tension thickening once again as they watched his reaction to the call. Ryan nodded, his eyes widening slightly.


    ¡°And the child¡­ is safe? They¡¯re bringing them here?¡± He paused, then added, ¡°Good. Thank you. I¡¯ll be waiting.¡±He ended the call and looked directly at Iris, who was still in Kendrick¡¯s arms. ¡°Iris,¡± Ryan said, his voice quiet but filled with an urgency that drew everyone¡¯s attention.


    ¡°They¡¯ve caught the woman who bought your child.¡±Iris¡¯s breath caught in her throat, her eyes wide with disbelief. ¡°What did you say?¡±Ryan stepped closer, his gaze steady. ¡°Your child is safe, Iris. The authorities have caught the woman who bought them, and they¡¯re bringing the child here to the hospital.¡±The room erupted in gasps of disbelief.


    Kendrick¡¯s jaw dropped, and Ivy looked as though she¡¯d been struck by lightning. Jessica covered her mouth with her hands, her eyes welling up with fresh tears.


    ¡°Iris, you¡­ you have a child?¡± Ivy whispered, her voice barely audible. ¡°How? When?¡±Iris¡¯s throat felt tight, and her body trembled as the reality of Ryan¡¯s words sank in.


    She hadn¡¯t spoken about her child to anyone but Ryan, and now her secret wasid bare for all to hear.


    ¡°I¡­ I¡­¡± Iris stammered, trying to form the words but feeling overwhelmed by the emotions that surged through her.


    Jessica stepped forward, her face pale with shock. ¡°Iris,¡± she said gently, ¡°is this true? You had a child?¡±Iris swallowed hard, nodding slowly as her tears fell freely now.


    ¡°Yes, Mum. It¡¯s true.¡±Jessica¡¯s breath hitched, and she closed the distance between them, cupping Iris¡¯s face in her hands. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡± she asked, her voice shaking. ¡°Why did you keep this from us?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want anyone to know,¡± Iris admitted, her voice breaking. ¡°I was scared¡­ scared of what it would mean, scared of losing everything. I didn¡¯t know how to handle it.


    And then¡­ and then she was taken from me. I thought I¡¯d lost her forever.¡±Kendrick stepped forward, his face filled with a mixture of shock and concern. ¡°Iris,¡± he said softly, ¡°who took your child? How did this happen?¡±Iris took a shaky breath, trying to steady herself before she spoke.


    ¡°It happened when I was¡­ when I was taken,¡± she exined, her voice trembling. ¡°I had no idea I was pregnant until it was toote. They¡­ they sold my baby. I never saw her again.¡±


    Jessica¡¯s heart broke as she listened to her daughter¡¯s story, and tears streamed down her face as she pulled Iris into a tight embrace. ¡°Oh, my darling,¡± she whispered. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry. I had no idea¡­¡±


    Ryan¡¯s phone buzzed again, and he quickly nced at the screen. ¡°They¡¯re here,¡± he announced, his voice filled with tension. ¡°The authorities are downstairs with your child, Iris. They¡¯re bringing her up now.¡±


    Iris¡¯s heart raced, her hands shaking as she tried to process what was happening. She was moments away from seeing her child again, the child she had believed was lost forever. Kendrick, Ivy, and Jessica all stood around her, their faces filled with a mixture of hope and fear.


    Ryan moved to the door, his eyes scanning the hallway for any sign of the authorities.


    Minutes passed in agonizing silence until finally, a pair of uniformed officers appeared at the door, a small bundle cradled in the arms of one of them. The officer holding the bundle stepped forward, his face softening as he approached Iris.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Miss Kendrick?¡± the officer asked, his voice gentle. Iris¡¯s breath caught in her throat as she nodded. ¡°Y-yes, that¡¯s me.¡±The officer smiled slightly and held the bundle out to her.


    ¡°Your daughter,¡± he said softly. Iris reached out, her hands trembling as she took the small child into her arms. The moment her eyes met her daughter¡¯s face, everything else in the room faded away. Her baby¡¯s tiny eyes blinked up at her, and Iris felt a wave of emotions so powerful that she could barely breathe.


    ¡°She¡¯s¡­ she¡¯s beautiful,¡± Jessica whispered, tears streaming down her face as she looked at her granddaughter.


    Ivy stepped closer, her face filled with awe. ¡°I can¡¯t believe it,¡± she murmured. ¡°You¡¯re a mother, Iris.


    ¡°Kendrick watched in silence, his heart swelling with a mixture of pride and regret. He had missed so much of his daughters¡¯ lives, but seeing Iris reunited with her child filled him with a new sense of purpose.


    Ryan, standing off to the side, couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of relief. After everything they had been through, after all the secrets and betrayals, at least one part of their broken family had been made whole again.


    But just as Iris held her child close, a loudmotion sounded from the hallway, followed by hurried footsteps.


    Luca rushed into the room, his face pale and eyes wide with fear. ¡°We have a problem,¡± he said breathlessly. ¡°It¡¯s not over.


    They¡¯ve found someone else¡­ someone even more dangerous.¡±The room froze, and everyone turned to Luca, dread settling in the pit of their stomachs.¡±Who?¡± Ryan demanded, his voice sharp.


    Luca¡¯s expression darkened as he spoke the name. ¡°It¡¯s not just Rose. There¡¯s someone higher up-someone pulling all the strings. And they¡¯reing for us.¡±The air in the room thickened with fear as the weight of Luca¡¯s words hung in the air.


    Iris clutched her child tighter, her heart racing with a new kind of terror. The nightmare wasn¡¯t over.

 Chapter 147

    The tension in the hospital room hung heavy as Iris took a deep breath and prepared to exin everything.


    The faces of those around her-Jessica, Ryan, Kendrick, and Ivy-were etched with a mixture of concern, curiosity, and shock. Ryan, especially, seemed anxious, as though every word Iris spoke would shift the very foundation of what he believed to be true.


    ¡°I found out I was pregnant,¡± Iris began slowly, her voice steady but filled with emotion, ¡°on the same day that Mrs. Rose asked to see me. She called me out of the blue and said she needed to talk. I thought it was something important about the family, but when I got there¡­¡± She paused, her gaze shifting to Ryan before continuing.


    ¡°She told me to leave you, Ryan. She wanted me gone so you could be with Be.¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw clenched at the mention of his mother¡¯s betrayal, but he remained silent, allowing Iris to continue.¡±I was devastated,¡± Iris admitted, her voice cracking slightly. ¡°I didn¡¯t know what to do, and on my way back to the hospital, I wasn¡¯t paying attention. I wasn¡¯t looking where I was going because I was so lost in my thoughts. That¡¯s when it happened.¡±


    ¡°Happened?¡± Ivy asked, leaning forward, her voice filled with concern.¡±I was hit by a car,¡± Iris said quietly. ¡°The man who hit me-he rushed me to the hospital. I was in pain, but it wasn¡¯t until they ran some tests that the nurse came in and told me the news.¡±


    ¡°What news?¡± Jessica asked, her voice soft, but filled with dread.¡±That I was already three weeks pregnant,¡± Iris said, her eyes locking with Jessica¡¯s, who gasped in surprise.


    Jessica¡¯s hand flew to her mouth, a mixture of shock and disbelief crossing her features. Ryan, too, seemed to have been caught off guard, his brows furrowing as he processed what Iris had just said.¡±Iris, why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡± Ryan asked, his voice tinged with a mix of hurt and confusion.¡±I was about to,¡± Iris replied quickly, her gaze softening as she looked at him.


    ¡°I was on my way to tell you when¡­ when everything changed. Before I could say anything, I was kidnapped.¡±Jessica¡¯s eyes widened as she took a step toward her daughter.


    ¡°Kidnapped? By who?¡±Iris sighed, the weight of the memory pressing down on her. ¡°Be,¡± she said, her voice filled with a mix of bitterness and sadness. ¡°Be was behind it all. After I was taken, I didn¡¯t see anyone except the people who kept me captive. I didn¡¯t know where I was or how long I¡¯d been there.


    But I gave birth days ago, in that horrible ce. And as soon as I did, Be took my child away.¡±Gasps filled the room as everyone tried toprehend the depth of Be¡¯s betrayal.¡±She took your baby?¡± Ivy asked, her voice barely above a whisper.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ that¡¯s monstrous.¡±Yes,¡± Iris nodded, her eyes welling with tears. ¡°She didn¡¯t even let me hold him. She just¡­ she just took him and left me there, alone and bleeding. If it weren¡¯t for Ryan and Luca, I don¡¯t know if I¡¯d even be standing here right now.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s face hardened with a mix of rage and regret. He ran his hands through his hair and stepped toward Iris. ¡°Iris¡­ I had no idea,¡± he said softly, his voice thick with emotion.


    ¡°If I had known-if I had any clue what Be was capable of-I would have never let her anywhere near you. I¡¯m sorry. I failed you.¡±Iris shook her head, reaching out to gently grasp Ryan¡¯s hand.


    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault, Ryan. None of us knew. Be hid her true self from all of us. But now¡­ now, all that matters is that our child is safe. Thanks to you.¡±


    Jessica, who had remained silent throughout Iris¡¯s story, now stood with tears streaming down her face. Her shoulders shook as she cried quietly, overwhelmed by the gravity of everything her daughter had endured.


    ¡°Mom?¡± Iris called softly, noticing the change in her mother¡¯s expression.


    Jessica wiped her tears with trembling hands. ¡°Iris,¡± she whispered, her voice filled with a mixture of sorrow and guilt.


    ¡°I¡¯m so happy that I have a grandson. But I¡¯m devastated that you had to go through all of this. The pain, the torture, the stress¡­ all because of my past mistakes. If I hadn¡¯t left you with the Kendricks, maybe none of this would¡¯ve happened.¡±


    ¡°No, Mom,¡± Iris said firmly, stepping forward to embrace Jessica. ¡°Don¡¯t me yourself. This isn¡¯t your fault. None of this is. You were trying to protect us, and I know that. What¡¯s important now is that we move forward.¡±


    As the mother and daughter held each other in a tight embrace, the door to the room creaked open, and a doctor in a white coat stepped in, holding a clipboard. His expression was serious as he approached Mr. Kendrick¡¯s bedside.


    ¡°Mr. Kendrick,¡± the doctor began, flipping through the pages on his clipboard. ¡°I have the results of your tests.¡±Kendrick, who had been silent up until this point, sat up straighter, his face growing grim.


    ¡°What did you find?¡± he asked. The doctor nced around the room, hesitating for a moment before speaking. ¡°It appears that a harmful substance was found in your system.


    Based on our tests, this substance had been administered slowly over time, almost as if someone intended to poison you gradually.¡±


    A collective gasp echoed around the room, and Kendrick¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°I knew it,¡± he muttered under his breath. ¡°It was Rose and Parker. They tried to kill me.¡±The doctor nodded gravely. ¡°It¡¯s possible. The substance you were exposed to could have easily gone undetected, especially with the doses being so small. It nearly shuts down your organs. You¡¯re lucky we caught it in time.¡±


    Kendrick clenched his fists, his jaw tightening as he remembered the night he overheard Rose¡¯s conversation. ¡°I heard her,¡± he said bitterly. ¡°Rose didn¡¯t know I was awake when she called Parker. She thought I was unconscious, but I heard her say that Ryan had taken me to another hospital. They were going to finish the job.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s face twisted with fury, and he mmed his fist into the nearby wall. ¡°That woman,¡± he growled. ¡°How could she? How could my mother be so heartless?¡±The doctor continued, his tone calm but urgent.


    ¡°We¡¯re doing everything we can to ensure the substance doesn¡¯t spread further or cause anysting damage, Mr. Kendrick. But it¡¯s going to take time for your body to recover.¡±Kendrick nodded slowly, his eyes filled with resolve. ¡°Thank you, doctor.¡±


    As the doctor excused himself and left the room, the air in the room grew heavier. Everyone was processing the gravity of what had just been revealed. Mr. Kendrick had been poisoned, Rose and Parker were responsible, and Be had stolen Iris¡¯s child. Jessica, who had been standing in silence, finally spoke.


    ¡°It¡¯s all over the news,¡± she said softly, pulling out her phone and scrolling through the headlines.


    ¡°What is?¡± Ivy asked, stepping closer to look at the screen. Jessica handed the phone to her daughter, her hands still shaking.


    ¡°The arrests. Rose Kendrick and her lover, Dr. Parker, have been arrested. It¡¯s everywhere-kidnapping attempted murder, and more. They¡¯ve finally been exposed.¡±


    The room fell into a stunned silence as everyone absorbed the news. Ryan, still reeling from the betrayal of his mother, felt a hollow ache settle in his chest.


    He knew Rose was twisted, but seeing her downfall sshed across every major headline made it all the more real. Kendrick sighed deeply, his face lined with exhaustion.


    ¡°It¡¯s over,¡± he whispered, though there was little relief in his voice. ¡°They¡¯re going to pay for what they did.¡±Ivy scrolled through the article, her eyes scanning the details before she suddenly froze. Her fingers hovered over the screen, and her face paled.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Iris asked, noticing the sudden change in her sister¡¯s expression.¡±I¡­ I think there¡¯s something else,¡± Ivy said slowly, her voice trembling.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Everyone¡¯s attention snapped to Ivy as she turned the phone toward them. The headline of a new article had just been updated, and the words sent a shiver down Iris¡¯s spine.


    ¡°Authorities investigate possible aplices in Kendrick conspiracy,¡± the headline read.


    Iris¡¯s heart sank. ¡°Aplices?¡± she echoed, her voice barely audible. Ryan¡¯s brows furrowed as he moved closer to read the article.


    ¡°It says they¡¯re investigating other people who may have been involved in the conspiracy,¡± he exined. ¡°They believe Rose and Parker weren¡¯t working alone.¡±A cold dread settled over the room as everyone exchanged uneasy nces. If there were more people involved, then this nightmare was far from over.


    ¡°Who could it be?¡± Jessica asked, her voice trembling. ¡°Who else could have had a hand in all of this?¡±Ryan¡¯s jaw tightened, his mind racing through the possibilities. ¡°We need to stay on guard,¡± he said firmly.


    ¡°Until we know who else was involved, none of us are safe.¡±Iris clutched her baby tighter to her chest, her heart pounding with fear. After everything they had been through, the thought that someone else was out there, plotting in the shadows, was terrifying.


    But as the tension in the room grew, a soft knock came at the door. Everyone froze, their eyes locked on the door as it slowly creaked open.

 Chapter 148

    The atmosphere in the house was finally calm, or so it seemed. After everything they had been through-the betrayals, the conspiracies, and the almost impossible escape from danger-Iris, Kendrick, and Jessica were relieved to be back home.


    The past few days had been nothing short of a nightmare, but now, with Ryan by her side, Iris felt like she could finally breathe again.


    Ryan had transformed into the kind of husband Iris had always dreamed of. He was attentive, caring, and endlessly devoted, especially when it came to their newborn.


    Late-night feedings and diaper changes-Ryan was right there with her, helping in every way he could. The chaos and distrust that once clouded their rtionship were gone, reced by a bond forged through hardship and love.


    One afternoon, as Iris cradled their baby on the living room couch, Ryan returned from the front door, holding a small package.


    There was no return address, just his name scribbled hastily across the front. He furrowed his brow as he inspected it.¡±Who¡¯s it from?¡± Iris asked, her eyes still on their child.¡±I don¡¯t know,¡± Ryan replied, flipping the package over.


    ¡°No sender information, no note. Just my name.¡±His curiosity piqued, Ryan walked into the kitchen and grabbed a knife to cut open the box.


    Inside, he found several sheets of paper neatly folded, along with arge man envelope.


    As he flipped through the pages, his face nched. His hands shook, and before he could stop himself, he staggered backward, barely managing to stay on his feet.


    ¡°Ryan?¡± Iris¡¯s voice wasced with concern as she looked up from the baby, her heart skipping a beat at the sight of her husband. She immediately ced the baby down and rushed to his side.


    ¡°What is it?¡±Ryan¡¯s face was ashen, his eyes wide with disbelief. Without speaking, he extended the papers to Iris, his hand trembling. Iris took the papers from him cautiously.


    As her eyes scanned the first page, her heart sank. It was a hospital report. But not just any report-it was about Ryan, his father, and Dr. Parker. The contents were shocking, so much so that her hands flew to her mouth, stifling a gasp as tears welled in her eyes.¡±Ryan¡­¡± she whispered, her voice barely audible, ¡°this can¡¯t be true¡­¡±


    Ryan turned away, pacing the room as his thoughts raced uncontrobly. ¡°I don¡¯t understand. Why would this even exist? How could this have happened without me knowing?¡±Iris, still holding the papers, was at a loss for words. She reread the report, her vision blurring from the tears that filled her eyes.


    It detailed something that neither of them had ever suspected-something that would unravel the very fabric of who Ryan thought he was.


    ¡°Ryan, it says here that¡­¡± Iris trailed off, unable to finish the sentence.¡±That I¡¯m not my father¡¯s biological son,¡± Ryanpleted for her, his voice strained. His entire world felt like it was crumbling. ¡°Parker was my biological father all along.¡±


    The weight of the revtion hung in the air like a dark cloud. Ryan¡¯s breath grew ragged as the shock overwhelmed him. Everything he had known-his identity, his family, the man he had thought was his father-had been built on a lie.


    ¡°How could this have been kept from me?¡± Ryan muttered angrily, pacing the room. ¡°Parker was my mother¡¯s lover, but for him to be my father¡­ how did no one ever tell me? How could my mother hide this from me?¡±Iris, her tears falling freely now, stepped closer to Ryan, trying to find the right words.


    ¡°Ryan, I¡­ I don¡¯t know what to say. This is¡­ it¡¯s beyondprehension.¡±Ryan mmed his fist onto the kitchen counter, rattling the dishes and startling the baby.


    ¡°I¡¯ve spent my entire life living a lie, Iris. My whole life. And now¡­ now I don¡¯t even know who I am anymore.¡±Iris wrapped her arms around him, holding him close as he fought back his emotions.


    ¡°You¡¯re still the same person,¡± she whispered. ¡°No matter what these papers say, you¡¯re still Ryan. You¡¯re still the man I love, the father of our child. Nothing changes that.¡±Ryan let out a long, shaky breath as he pulled her into a tighter embrace.


    ¡°But how can I face my father-Mr. Kendrick-now? How can I look him in the eye, knowing I¡¯m not even his son?¡±Iris rested her head on his chest, feeling his heart race beneath her touch.


    ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out together,¡± she said gently. ¡°We¡¯ll confront this truth head-on, just like we¡¯ve faced everything else.¡±Ryan looked down at her, his eyes filled with gratitude. ¡°I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do without you, Iris. I don¡¯t even know how to process this.¡±


    As the couple stood in silence, the doorbell rang, interrupting their moment of vulnerability. Ryan straightened up, exchanging a concerned nce with Iris.¡±Are you expecting anyone?¡± Iris asked, wiping away thest of her tears.¡±No,¡± Ryan replied, his voice still a bit shaky. He walked toward the door, opening it cautiously.


    Standing in the doorway was a police officer, his expression serious and unreadable. Ryan¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°Can I help you?¡± he asked, trying to keep his voice steady.


    The officer nodded. ¡°Mr. Kendrick, I¡¯m here to inform you that Victor has been apprehended. He was found hiding in one of his safehouses. He¡¯s been arrested, and during questioning, he confessed to coborating with Be to take over the Kendrick Empire.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s mind reeled. ¡°Victor? He¡¯s been wanted for years. How did they find him?¡±


    ¡°Turns out Victor had been hiding in in sight,¡± the officer exined. ¡°He thought he couldy low, but our team tracked him down.¡±


    ¡°And what about Be?¡± Ryan asked, his voice cold with anger. ¡°What did Victor say about her?¡±


    ¡°ording to his confession, the entire scheme to take over the Kendrick Empire was Be¡¯s idea,¡± the officer continued. ¡°Victor has been involved in various illegal operations for years, but his parents¡¯ influence kept most of the cases against him buried.


    Now that he¡¯s been caught, it¡¯s alling to light.¡±Ryan felt a surge of both anger and relief. Be¡¯s n had fallen apart, and Victor¡¯s capture meant that justice was finally on the horizon.


    But the officer wasn¡¯t finished.¡±There¡¯s more,¡± the officer said gravely. ¡°Victor¡¯s parents have refused to get involved. They¡¯ve turned a deaf ear to everything, not offering him any help.¡±Ryan nodded slowly, feeling the weight of it all crash down on him. ¡°Thank you for letting me know.¡±


    The officer gave a curt nod and turned to leave, but before he could step away, he added, ¡°Onest thing, Mr. Kendrick. Victor mentioned something about unfinished business. We¡¯re still investigating, but it seems like there¡¯s more to this than we initially thought.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s heart sank again. He closed the door and turned back to Iris, who had been listening from the living room. She was sitting on the couch, cradling their baby, her face filled with worry.


    ¡°What did the officer say?¡± she asked quietly. Ryan let out a deep sigh. ¡°Victor¡¯s been arrested. He confessed that Be was behind the n to take over the Kendrick Empire. But¡­ the officer said Victor mentioned something about unfinished business. There¡¯s still more we don¡¯t know.¡±


    Iris¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Unfinished business? What does that even mean?¡±This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Ryan admitted, running a hand through his hair in frustration. ¡°But I¡¯m worried, Iris. After everything we¡¯ve been through, it feels like this nightmare isn¡¯t over yet.¡±Iris held their child close, her protective instincts kicking in. ¡°We need to stay vignt, Ryan. Whoever else is involved, they might still be out there.¡±


    Ryan nodded, his mind racing. ¡°You¡¯re right. I¡¯ll make some calls and see if we can get more information.¡±As the couple sat in silence, processing everything, a new wave of dread washed over them.


    The hospital report, Victor¡¯s arrest, Be¡¯s betrayal-it all felt like the tip of the iceberg. And now, with the mention of unfinished business, they both knew that their fight for justice wasn¡¯t over.


    A sudden noise outside the house broke their silence. Iris jumped up, startled, as Ryan rushed to the window. What he saw sent a chill down his spine.


    A ck SUV was parked across the street, its windows tinted. It had been there for a while, but now the engine roared to life, and the car slowly pulled away.¡±Ryan, what¡¯s going on?¡± Iris asked, her voice trembling.


    Ryan¡¯s face was grim as he turned to her. ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­ but I have a feeling we¡¯re being watched.¡±Iris clutched their baby tighter, her heart pounding with fear. Just when they thought the worst was behind them, a new threat seemed to be lurking in the shadows. And this time, it felt even more dangerous than before.

 Chapter 149

    Ryan paced the length of his father¡¯s study, his mind racing with conflicting emotions. He held the hospital reports tightly in his hand, his knuckles white from the grip.


    The reports confirmed his worst fears-the man he had called his father for his entire life wasn¡¯t his biological father at all.


    Dr. Parker was. The revtion had shaken him to the core, and he knew he couldn¡¯t keep this secret any longer. He had to tell Mr. Kendrick.


    Taking a deep breath, he walked over to where Kendrick sat in his leather chair, his eyes already filled with concern.


    Kendrick had noticed Ryan¡¯s turmoil the moment he entered the room, but he hadn¡¯t pressed him to speak.


    ¡°Dad,¡± Ryan began, his voice trembling slightly. He rarely ever called him anything but ¡®Dad,¡¯ but now, with this new information, it felt like a lie.


    Still, it was all he had ever known. ¡°I received something today. It¡¯s¡­plicated, and I don¡¯t know how to exin it.¡±


    Kendrick raised an eyebrow, worry etching deeper into his face.


    ¡°Ryan, whatever it is, you know you can talk to me.¡±Ryan swallowed hard, handing him the reports. Kendrick took them, his eyes scanning the pages.


    For a moment, the room was silent. The air felt heavy like they were standing on the edge of a precipice. Then, Kendrick¡¯s face went pale.


    He looked up at Ryan, confusion and disbelief mixing in his gaze.¡±This¡­ this can¡¯t be right,¡± Kendrick stammered. ¡°What are you saying, Ryan? Dr. Parker is your¡­?¡±


    ¡°My biological father,¡± Ryan finished for him. His voice was t as if saying it out loud might lessen the blow. ¡°Mom has been lying to us for years. She had an affair with him, and they¡¯ve been keeping this secret from us.¡±


    Kendrick stood abruptly, knocking over a ss of water on his desk, though he didn¡¯t seem to notice. He grabbed the reports and looked at them again, as if rereading them would somehow change the words on the page.


    ¡°No, this can¡¯t be right. Ryan, we need to get another test done. There must be some mistake. This can¡¯t be true!¡±


    ¡°I already did,¡± Ryan replied, his voice weary. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to believe it either, so I went to three different hospitals. They all came back the same. Dr. Parker is my biological father.¡±


    Kendrick sank back into his chair, his hands covering his face. For a long moment, neither of them spoke. Ryan could hear his father¡¯s heavy breathing, and it broke his heart to see the man who had raised him so shattered by this news.


    ¡°Why would she do this?¡± Kendrick asked finally, his voice barely above a whisper. ¡°Why would Rose lie to me, to us, for all these years?¡±Ryan clenched his fists.


    ¡°Because she¡¯s selfish. She wanted to have it all-her affair with Parker and the security of being with you. She didn¡¯t care about how it would affect us.¡±


    Kendrick looked up at him, his eyes filled with sorrow. ¡°Ryan, I¡­ I don¡¯t know what to say. You¡¯ve always been my son, and nothing can change that. I love you, no matter what those reports say.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s chest tightened at his father¡¯s words. Despite the devastating revtion, Kendrick still saw him as his son.


    But the knowledge that he wasn¡¯t truly Kendrick¡¯s by blood felt like a wound that would never heal.¡±I appreciate that, Dad,¡±


    Ryan said softly, trying to keep his emotions in check. ¡°But I need to see her. I need to know why she did this.¡±Kendrick nodded, his expression resigned. ¡°I¡¯ll support you, whatever you decide to do. But please¡­ be careful, Ryan. Your mother has hurt us both, but you don¡¯t have to face this alone.¡±


    Ryan left the room, his mind clouded with anger and betrayal. He felt Iris¡¯sforting presence as she waited for him outside the study. She had been his rock throughout all of this, standing by him even as his world fell apart.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Iris asked, her eyes filled with concern. Ryan shook his head. ¡°No. But I have to see her.¡±The visit to the prison was even harder than Ryan had anticipated. When he arrived at the visitation room, he was told by the guards that Rose had refused to see him.


    It was a final, bitter rejection from a mother who had never truly cared about him, and it stung in ways he hadn¡¯t expected.


    Iris ced aforting hand on his shoulder as they walked out of the prison. ¡°She¡¯s not worth it, Ryan. She doesn¡¯t deserve your time or your pain.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ryan muttered. ¡°But it still hurts. I don¡¯t know what I was expecting¡­ some kind of exnation, maybe. Something to help make sense of all this.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll never get that from her,¡± Iris said gently. ¡°But you have me. And you have Kendrick. That¡¯s what matters.¡±Ryan nodded, grateful for Iris¡¯s unwavering support, but deep down, the bitterness still gnawed at him.


    There was someone else he needed to confront-Dr. Parker. If his mother wouldn¡¯t give him answers, maybe the man who had fathered him would.


    Meanwhile, Luca¡¯s bond with Ivy had grown stronger by the day. What had started as casual flirtation had quickly developed into something deeper. Ivy, once aloof and uninterested in rtionships, found herself drawn to Luca¡¯s warmth and stability.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    They spent more time together, and soon, they were officially in a rtionship.¡±You¡¯re different from anyone I¡¯ve ever met,¡± Ivy admitted one evening as they sat together in the garden of the Kendrick estate.


    ¡°I never thought I¡¯d let someone in like this, but with you¡­ it just feels right.¡±Luca smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. ¡°You make it easy, Ivy. I¡¯ve never felt this way about anyone before.¡±


    Their rtionship was one of the few bright spots in a family otherwise torn apart by lies and betrayal. But even as they grew closer, both of them knew that the chaos surrounding Ryan¡¯s family would eventually affect them, too.


    Back at the Kendrick estate, Mr. Kendrick was struggling toe to terms with the revtion about Ryan.


    He had always loved Ryan as his son, and despite the test results, that love hadn¡¯t wavered.


    But the truth gnawed at him-after all these years, how could it be that Ryan wasn¡¯t his biological child? As he sat in his office, staring at old family photos, Kendrick felt a deep sense of loss.


    He had raised Ryan and taught him everything he knew, and now this secret had shattered the very foundation of their rtionship.


    A knock on the door pulled Kendrick from his thoughts. It was Luca.¡±Sir, I wanted to talk to you about something,¡± Luca began hesitantly. Kendrick waved him in.


    ¡°Of course, Luca. What¡¯s on your mind?¡±Luca sat down across from Kendrick, his expression serious. ¡°I just want to say¡­ I know this situation with Ryan has been difficult for you. But I hope you know that nothing has changed. You¡¯re still his father in every way that matters.¡±Kendrick smiled sadly.


    ¡°Thank you, Luca. I appreciate that. It¡¯s just hard to process, you know? I raised him, loved him as my own, and now to find out that Parker is his biological father¡­ it feels like my world has been turned upside down.¡±


    ¡°But you didn¡¯t raise him because of biology,¡± Luca said gently. ¡°You raised him because you love him. That¡¯s what matters.¡±


    Kendrick nodded, but the weight of the situation still hung heavily over him.


    In the cold, sterile confines of his prison cell, Dr. Parker waited. He had received the call that the hospital reports had been delivered to Ryan, and he knew it was only a matter of time before Ryan woulde to see him.


    He could almost taste the anticipation, knowing that this was the moment he had been waiting for.¡±Good,¡± Parker muttered to himself, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips.


    ¡°Now he knows the truth.¡±Parker¡¯s n had been carefully orchestrated from the beginning. He had always known that Rose wouldn¡¯t be able to keep the secret forever, and now that the truth was out, he was certain that Ryan woulde to him.


    After all, Ryan had been living a lie his whole life, and now that he knew Parker was his real father, surely he would do everything in his power to get him out of prison.


    At least, that¡¯s what Parker believed. But as he sat in his cell, waiting for Ryan¡¯s arrival, Parker¡¯s overconfidence blinded him to the reality of the situation.


    Ryan wasn¡¯ting to rescue him. Ryan wasing to confront him, and when he did, Parker would realize that his carefully crafted n wasn¡¯t going to unfold the way he had imagined.


    As the hours ticked by, Parker continued to wait, his mind buzzing with thoughts of what he would say when Ryan finally arrived. He envisioned a reunion, a father and son finallying together, united by the truth.


    But what Parker didn¡¯t realize was that Ryan¡¯s heart was filled not with a desire for connection, but with rage.


    When Ryan stepped into that prison, Parker would soon learn that the son he thought he could manipte wasn¡¯t going to y along with his ns.

 Chapter 150

    Months had passed since Parker waited in vain for Ryan toe to his rescue. As the cold reality set in, the hope that had once flickered inside Parker¡¯s heart dimmed until it was nothing but a distant memory.


    The prison walls around him felt like they were closing in, suffocating him with the weight of his past mistakes.


    Every day, he wondered if his son would evere, but no sign of Ryan emerged. He had gambled on the wrong side of history, and now he was paying for it with every lonely second that ticked by.


    Meanwhile, Mrs. Rose Kendrick, once a woman of unmatched power and deceit, was locked away in her world of doom. She had seen the writing on the wall long before now.


    When the truth came to light, when all the lies she had crafted so carefully unraveled before her eyes, she knew no one wasing to save her. The empire she had tried to manipte for herself and her lover Parker had crumbled.


    Her final days were filled with silence, the kind that came not from peace but from the eptance of an inevitable fate. She was doomed, and this time, no cunning words or maniptions could save her.


    As all this unfolded, Mr. Kendrick made a decision that would forever shape the future of his family. Despite the shocking revtion that Parker was Ryan¡¯s biological father, Mr. Kendrick never stopped seeing Ryan as his son.


    He had raised Ryan, taught him the ways of the world, and loved him deeply. The bond they shared was unshakable, and when the time came for Mr. Kendrick to divide his property, he did so with a heart full of love and rity.


    Mr. Kendrick split his wealth between his biological children, Iris and Ivy. They each received a part of the vast empire he had built, securing their futures.


    But the greatest surprise came when Mr. Kendrick, with his final breath of authority, handed over full control of the Kendrick Corporation to Ryan.


    To the world, it may have seemed unconventional, but to Mr. Kendrick, there was no doubt. Ryan was his son in every way that mattered, and thepany belonged to him.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Parker¡¯s biological connection to Ryan was nothing more than a footnote in the grand story of their family.


    Ryan, standing before his adoptive father on the day of this announcement, felt the weight of responsibility settle on his shoulders.


    But he was ready. Over the years, he had grown into the man Mr. Kendrick always knew he could be-strong, resilient, and capable of leading the empire with honor.


    As Mr. Kendrick looked into Ryan¡¯s eyes, he saw the future he had always dreamed of for his family. In the midst of all this, Luca had finally found his happiness.


    After months of growing closer, Luca proposed to Ivy in a beautiful, intimate ceremony that took her byplete surprise.


    With tears in her eyes, Ivy said yes, and the two embraced as the sun set behind them, casting a golden glow on their new beginning.


    Luca had been her rock through so much, and Ivy knew that no matter what challengesy ahead, they would face them together.


    But not everyone found peace. Be, once a formidable presence, had crumbled under the weight of her ambition and deception.


    After everything fell apart, she spiraled into a mental breakdown, unable to cope with the loss of her power and influence.


    She was eventually taken to a psychiatric hospital, where she spent her days in a fog of confusion and regret. Her once-sharp mind, now dulled by the relentless pressure of her failures, was a shell of its former self.


    She had lost everything, and in the end, she had only herself to me. Victor, another figure of ruin, met his tragic end. After trying and failing to escape from prison, he was shot dead during the attempt.


    His death, though shocking, felt inevitable. The world had moved on without him, and his demise was simply another reminder of how far he had fallen from grace. But amid the tragedy, there was light.


    Ryan, finally free from the entanglements of his past, decided to make things right with the love of his life. He had once married Iris under pretenses, their union a mere contract to secure his inheritance.


    But now, standing before her in the aftermath of everything they had been through, he knew that their love was real.


    It was deeper and more powerful than any contract or agreement could ever be.


    Ryan nned a new wedding, one built on true love, where the vows they exchanged would be genuine and evesting.


    This time, it wasn¡¯t about business or family legacies-it was about the love they had discovered in each other.


    As the day of their real wedding approached, Ryan reflected on everything that had brought him to this point. He had made mistakes-plenty of them-but his love for Iris had never wavered. It had only grown stronger with time.


    He often wished he had recognized his feelings for her from the very beginning, but life had a funny way of teaching people lessons they weren¡¯t ready to learn.


    Now, standing at the altar, looking into Iris¡¯s eyes, he knew that he would spend the rest of his life making sure she knew how much he loved her.


    The ceremony was beautiful, simple yet elegant, attended only by close family and friends. Ivy stood beside her sister as her maid of honor, while Luca proudly watched from the front row.


    The love in the room was palpable, and as Ryan and Iris exchanged their vows, there wasn¡¯t a dry eye in the house. It was a celebration of love, resilience, and new beginnings.


    Not long after the wedding, Mr. Kendrick passed away peacefully in his sleep.


    He had lived a full life and left behind a legacy that would endure for generations. In his final days, he was proud of all his children-Ryan, Iris, and Ivy-and content knowing that they were prepared to carry on the Kendrick name.


    He was especially proud of Ryan, the son who had proven that family wasn¡¯t just about blood, but about loyalty, love, andmitment.


    His passing was bittersweet, but the family took sce in knowing that he had left the world with a heart full of peace.


    Ryan¡¯s love for Iris continued to deepen in the months that followed. He marveled at the woman she had be-the strength she showed in the face of adversity, the kindness she disyed to those around her, and the passion she had for her work.


    As they settled into their new life together, he often found himself wishing he had loved her from the very beginning. But as Iris reminded him, their journey had led them here, and that was all that mattered.


    Meanwhile, Ivy¡¯s career, which had been nearly destroyed by scandal, was resurrected in a way no one could have predicted. After being used of stealing designs, Ivy struggled to clear her name.


    But with Iris¡¯s help, she was able to make a stunningeback. Iris, now a well-known fashion designer, sketched the exact designs that Ivy had been used of stealing and presented them to the public.


    The proof was undeniable-if Ivy had truly stolen the designs, she wouldn¡¯t have been able to replicate them so perfectly. The fashion world was quick to take notice. Ivy was vindicated, and her reputation was restored.


    She was called back to work by various agencies, eager to have her back on their runways. The scandal that had nearly ruined her career was now a distant memory, reced by the bright spotlight of fame and sess.


    Together, Ivy and Iris became a powerhouse duo in the fashion industry. Ivy modeled every incredible design that Iris brought to life, and the two sisters worked in perfect harmony.


    Their bond, once strained by jealousy andpetition, had transformed into something unbreakable.


    They were not only sisters but partners, building a future together that honored their family¡¯s legacy while carving out their path in the world.


    The Kendrick name, once associated with scandal and deceit, was now synonymous with innovation, sess, and love.


    Ryan, Iris, Ivy, and Luca had all found their versions of happiness, and the future looked brighter than any of them had ever imagined.


    As the sun set on the Kendrick estate, casting a warm glow over the sprawling gardens and grand house, Ryan stood on the balcony, his arms wrapped around Iris.


    He gazed out at the horizon, thinking about everything that had happened-all the trials, the betrayals, the heartbreak-and realized that it had all been worth it.


    Because in the end, love had triumphed.


    The End


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