A girl whose notion of love was shattered forever. A boy who just wants to be truly loved and cherished. They couldn't be more different from each other and yet something so carnal and wild bubbles between them, igniting a fire that leaves them both slighted in its wake...Will they come out on top? Will they be able to keep each other close? Or will their connection become a cinder, like ash blown away by the harsh realities of their lives....
***
"For fuck's sake, Nova! We have to go!" Gianna called out for the umptieth time, leaving me groaning in exasperation. I didn't even Want to go to the damn concert in the first place. They had had to come and drag me out of my bed and my chill Netflix and popcorn evening.
*And now they're being all pushy about it, damn them...*
"I'm coming! Jesus!" I called back out, staring at my outfit once more, one they had picked themselves of course. It had been so long since I'd been in anything but my work pants and skirt suits. Partying hadn't really been at the forefront of my mind since that incident...
*Which is exactly what they're using as an excuse to get me out...Damn *him* for still making my life a living hell...*
Okay, that was pushing it a little. My two best friends meant well, I knew that for a fact but that didn't mean I couldn't hate them just a little bit for interrupting my weekend.
I smoothed over the leather black miniskirt that showcased a zipper design at the front. The pairing with the stockings and garter straps was bound to pull in some attention, what I was sure was their plan all along.
*Always so damn cheeky...*
The red lacy bralette was a great pairing against the leather black jacket. I grabbed the black platform ankle boots, pulling them on quickly before adjusting the high ponytail of my waist-length red hair was in, the curls flowing effortlessly down to the small of my back. My blue eyes looked all the more accentuated with the black-winged eyeliner and mascara, the nude lip gloss a good neutral blend with the entire outfit.
*You can do this, Nova. It's just a night out with friends and your brother as it turns out...You're safe and allowed to have some fun. For chrissakes, you're only twenty-five. Might as well enjoy it while you can...*
Chuckling at my dumb pep talk, I grabbed my clutch bag before heading out of my room, the girls' catcalling and whistling low at the sight of me that had me playfully rolling my eyes. They could be so dramatic.
"Finally! But it was definitely worth the wait. You are going to make everyone bend over backwards for you, bitch."
Blue called out, her beautiful brown eyes assessing me from head to toe, leaving me flushed even as I admired her own outfit. It consisted of a black rugged band t-shirt that was tucked into the high-waist rugged jean shorts which she matched with black Doc Martens.
Her curly hair was in a simple, messy bun showcasing her mixed heritage. Her brown skin was littered with beautiful, intricate tattoos, all of which had a story behind them. She was the fashionista of our small band of friends, her outfits always on point and the one we called when we were wound up on what to wear.
A compliment from her was literally the holy grail of all comments. It meant you'd definitely done something right. It also didn't help that I'd always had the smallest crush on her back when we first met. She had always and still is so free and fierce which always had a part of me pulled to her and the confidence she exuded.
When she'd come out to us as pansexual, we'd been so thrilled for her and what was to come but I couldn't help but put my feelings on the back burner, knowing damn well that I couldn't give her what she wanted and vice versa.
Since then, our friendship had grown all the more but it didn't mean that I couldn't help but admire her.
*A girl is allowed to look...*
"Well, we did good, Bee. She's gorgeous. Now, we're late! Let's go before Leo gets impatient."
Gigi prompted, grabbing her own bag as Blue handed me a tequila shot I downed in one go before following the two out of my apartment and into the elevator where our fiery Italian friend was waiting impatiently.
"Your OCD is showing, Gigi."
Blue poked at her, earning the middle finger in return that had us all chuckling. She was one of my oldest friends, our relationship going as far back as senior year high school to being college roommates before we met Blue who became our new roommate down the line. Beautiful with the most striking hazel eyes, I had always been jealous of her petite figure which was currently clad in a beautiful, short, off the shoulder, black dress with buttons at the front that she paired with thigh-high boots.
Her blonde hair was loose against her shoulders, her make up light as well with black eyeliner, mascara and a red lip combination. She was equally just as impressive when it came to her outfits, her and Blue's style contrasting though.
Her relationship with my older brother, Leo, had been a shock at first for me seeing as I hadn't even realized they'd been dating. She had been scared I wouldn't approve, which was dumb honestly but I understood her thought process and yes, I had been hurt that she didn't feel she could come to me and tell me they were together but I was all in all, super happy for them.
They were complete contrasts of each other with Leo being more conservative, something I guess came with him being a trauma surgeon whilst Gigi was more outgoing and wild which melded perfectly with her job as a Social Media Manager at one of the top PR firms in Seattle and the states over.
Their relationship really was 'couple goals', despite my ardent distaste for that misused term. They had somehow made it work despite their crazy work schedules and different personalities that made them argue here and there but they always made a point to fix it. Seeing them together was almost enough to make me believe in love again.
Almost.
"Why are we taking a cab? I could just drive us?"
I spoke up once we got to the chilly lobby where the black Escalade was parked in waiting.
"Girl, you know damn well we're gonna get drunk tonight. And none of us wants to be the designated driver so a cab it is...And yes, we made the decision for you."
Blue finished with a mischievous smile and wink as she got in first, Gigi following suit with a small apologetic shrug that made me sigh in exasperation before bundling in as well and shutting the door behind me.
"You two are freaking insane,"
I muttered under my breath despite their chuckles and mini hi-five. We drove down the streets of Seattle that were alive despite it being 9:00 pm. Everyone seemed to be gravitating towards clubs and bars, the nightlife in absolute full swing.
"What band are we going to see again?"
I let out a wide cheeky grin even as Bee burst out laughing at Gigi's annoyed look, her eyes narrowing into slits as she glared at me for my question which was 100% meant to annoy her.
Of course, I knew the band she'd been fan-girling for since back in college although then, I hadn't been as malleable as I am now to be pulled to all their concerts.
It's not that I have anything against EverBreed. They were an amazing band, renowned all over the world and their music wasn't actually bad from the few times I had heard them blasting through Gigi's stereo. I just didn't see the need to go see them on Saturday when I was supposed to be watching anime on Netflix.
And it was a wonder that Leo had even gotten her the tickets what with her Crazy crush on the band's lead singer, the infamous Colton Alexander who had been in the tabloids quite a lot in the recent past. For what, I have no idea. I was sure Gigi had explained at some point but I probably wasn't listening. We were at the venue soon enough, the assortment of cars and people being a clear indicator.
"Let's go have some fun, ladies!"
Gigi said, exiting the car as we followed suit towards Leo who honestly stood out in the crowd of people especially due to the fact that he was six ft. two with copper colored, slicked back and cut into a fade hair that contrasted his forest green eyes. A wide dimpled smile stretched across his lips as he outstretched his hands for Gigi who launched right into him, holding onto him tight as he spun her around. Many of the passerby's glanced at them with small smiles, us included as we took in their love for each other.
*See? Couple goals*.
"I know he's your brother and Gigi's boyfriend and all but he could have Definitely gotten some if he was single,"
Blue muttered over to me as she skimmed her eyes appreciatively at him, taking in his black, well-fitting jeans, matching turtle neck underneath a grey trench coat and brown cut off shoes.
I rolled my eyes playfully at Blue, slightly shoving at her as I made my way towards them with her in tow.
"Little sister. Good to see you out of your cave."
Leo muttered as he hugged me tight, putting in as much feeling in that one simple embrace. It had been a while since we saw each other as I'd chosen to isolate myself for a while. Seeing him now brought a kind of warmth to my soul. I hadn't realized just how much I'd missed him.
"Oh, come on, Leo. Don't pretend you weren't the one who put these two psychos to the task of getting me out of my cosy apartment."
I retorted, earning guilty chuckles from the girls as Leo rubbed the back of his neck with his own guilty smile and shrug.
"Well, you had to get out at some point. Anyway, the concert's already started. The headliners though."
He clarified the last part for Gigi who, for a moment there, seemed ready to cry.
"Well, what the hell are we waiting for? Let's go!"
She prompted, pulling Blue with her as Leo and I stared at the lot of them in amusement.
"How are you really, little sister?"
Leo asked, pulling me in for a side hug as we made our way towards the arena. I knew the question would come but it was still a punch in the gut in terms of finding an answer.
"I'm okay. Taking it one day at a time, as always. Got nothing to complain about."
I replied with a small shrug and nonchalant smile that he didn't seem to quite buy but, fortunately, he let it go, granting me a small smile in return. Leo knew me well, knew that it wasn't wise to push. He was considerate like that but I knew I hadn't heard the last of it.
The arena's main entrance was packed to the brim with die-hard fans squealing in excitement, some of them already sufficiently drunk as it is.
"Come on, guys. This way,"
Leo prompted, leading us towards a more exclusive entrance that had Gigi squealing in excitement as she entwined her hand with his.
"Holy shit, Leo really went out on this, huh?"
Bee muttered over to me as we proceeded even deeper into the sparsely populated hallway that led straight to the VIP lounge no doubt. I nodded silently, smiling as I watched his eyes take in my best friend, so full of love as he watched her remark on the fact that we were walking on the hallowed hallways that EverBreed had walked as well.
*He really does love her. This is what everyone longs for, such passion and devotion to your partner's happiness...Wouldn't be so bad to have that one day...*
I chuckled at my thoughts with a shake of the head, tossing away the ridiculous notion.
*You're already past the point of no return, Nova...*
***
Sweet, fiercely loyal and introverted despite being a famous Pop Star, Harper Isabel Romano does not believe in the concept of romantic love- even though she has sung ballads about it. Between her busy schedule and her tattered, destroyed heart, she has no desire for a relationship or anything akin to romantic love. Yes, she adored music. It was her first, after all. It had kept her alive when she wanted nothing else. Her three best friends and brother were also exceptions, the only people who came close enough to earning her absolute devotion. But when trouble emerges, a situation threatening her first true passion- music, she finds herself seeking solace with a man she barely knows. A man who screams danger and despair from a mile away. A man who threatens her sanity by eliciting emotions in her. Feelings she thought had died. Because despite Raiden's cold, unassuming personality, he made her feel alive. Wanted. Protected. Cherished. For the first time in her life, she Dares to dream of a world where she is genuinely Alive. *** Enchanting, Lethal and wise enough to keep all his cards close to heart, Billionaire Raiden Hattori is a leviathan hidden behind the tailored suits and persona of a stoic gentleman. He has never had time for love, for hearts and flowers. Not when he was drenched in the Sins of his Past and Present but when he listens to her sing, watches her imbue emotion into her music and bring it to life, he can't ignore her or the pull he has towards the famous pop star whose eyes behold suffocating sadness. She is a Puzzle he cannot solve, the object of his obsession. And when the chance to get close to her, to study her and understand the pull comes, he breaks all his rules. He tables a deal she can never refuse. He Dares to Live only for her. His only Exception. Theirs is an all-consuming, erotic love filled with secrets and tainted by past demons....and when it all unravels, it threatens to destroy them. ***
Book One of the Immortal Six Series- The Beast Immortal Calliope Kain Rowenys has grown up hearing stories of a world beyond her wildest dreams. Never could she have imagined that it was all true. Her fantasy becomes a reality when the being stalking her dreams comes to collect. He is the King of Werewolves, and she is his betrothed. The Natus Kingdom awaits their Queen's crowning and dark forces churn in the background- waiting to destroy her and the man she hates to love... Lucien Gray has been a recluse all his life. Despite being a King, an Alpha sworn to protect his kind, he considers himself nothing but a Beast and an Immortal one at that. He despises his responsibility and the Celestials that granted him such a cruel fate. But then she comes into his life, and everything is shifted. She is meant to be his Salvation and although he never believed in redemption, he does now if it means staying by her side forever Together, they battle dark forces who wish to corrupt their future, fighting side by side in the wake of disturbing revelations and loving each other all the more- forever and always.
All Reina Valentine has ever known is Death and Despair. As a Royal, the Queen of all Vampires, she is dubbed as the pinnacle of a race, the fearless leader who was destined to bring their kind into an age of prosperity. She, however, prefers the company of the shadows. Darkness is her solace and for almost a century, she slumbers and embraces it... Right until she is awoken to a world beyond her wildest comprehension. A threat larger, more dangerous than Vampire Hunters has assailed their world and her return is integral to dispel this great tragedy from coming to pass. New alliances are made, old wounds are torn open and the dawn of a new age is in the horizon. This may just be her new beginning- the rebirth she never knew she needed. ** Zero Alexander Black is the charismatic CEO of one of the world's largest international corporations. His days are dominated by spreadsheets, board meetings, and charity galas. So when the beast from his dreams appears before him and attacks him in the real world, his entire life is turned upside down. Folklore and fairytales appear to have always been true, and for some reason, it wasn't as shocking to him as he expected. Not when it put him in front of Royalty and the woman of his dreams. His empty, forlorn existence comes to life with adventure, near-death experiences, all of which fill the void in his heart. For the first time in his life, he is truly Alive. Follow their adventure as they fight to not only liberate their world but save it from plunging darkness. A love story blooms, one that was written in the stars all along...
She is a free spirit, trapped in a bird cage of death, danger and despair. Little Alessa has always known one thing above all- she was born to be the perfect Principessa of the Cosa Nostra, the Italian Mafia. She was urged to smile when asked to, laugh even when the jokes were anything but funny, charming to all who were allies. She was perfection incarnate...well, that's what they think. They know nothing of her wild abandon, of her plans to be anything but the perfect princess, royalty of a world dredged so deep in blood, she choked on it. Her plans to run were absolute...well, until HE came along. The mysterious Pakan-a Don like her father- shielded by the shadows that he ruled from. He was the anomaly that she least expected. He destroyed her plans and she hated him for it. So why then does her heart beat so fast when he is near? Why is he the one she thinks about before she sleeps? Why does she so long to see him when she's sad? She wanted the freedom, the life beyond the shadows and explore the world. But Emerald colored eyes, cocky smirks, rough hands, cigarettes and darkness were starting to look a little more appealing...
Sara Mae Xavier is living every Omega's dream--she is the Alpha King's mate! That's until he betrays and rejects her. He also accuses her falsely, and she is sentenced to two years at the notorious North Academy, a campus made specifically for delinquent werewolves. She has no idea how she'll survive, being a weak Omega, but she soon realises that's the least of her problems. Her roommates are three Alphas, each with a notorious reputation of his own. But that's not the worst part...why on earth does she have a mate bond to all of them?
After a passionate night, Verena left some money and wanted to leave, but was held by her companion. "Isn't it your turn to make me happy?" Verena, always disguising herself as ugly, slept with her fiance's uncle, Darren, in order to escape her engagement with her unfaithful fiance. Darren had respect and admiration. Word of his romantic escapades circulated, some saying they saw him kissing a lady against a wall and others calling it gossip. Who could ever tame Darren's heart? Then, shockingly, Darren was caught bending down to help Verena with her shoes, all to score a kiss from her!
I received a pornographic video. "Do you like this?" The man speaking in the video is my husband, Mark, whom I haven't seen for several months. He is naked, his shirt and pants scattered on the ground, thrusting forcefully on a woman whose face I can't see, her plump and round breasts bouncing vigorously. I can clearly hear the slapping sounds in the video, mixed with lustful moans and grunts. "Yes, yes, fuck me hard, baby," the woman screams ecstatically in response. "You naughty girl!" Mark stands up and flips her over, slapping her buttocks as he speaks. "Stick your ass up!" The woman giggles, turns around, sways her buttocks, and kneels on the bed. I feel like someone has poured a bucket of ice water on my head. It's bad enough that my husband is having an affair, but what's worse is that the other woman is my own sister, Bella. ************************************************************************************************************************ “I want to get a divorce, Mark,” I repeated myself in case he didn't hear me the first time—even though I knew he'd heard me clearly. He stared at me with a frown before answering coldly, "It's not up to you! I'm very busy, don't waste my time with such boring topics, or try to attract my attention!" The last thing I was going to do was argue or bicker with him. "I will have the lawyer send you the divorce agreement," was all I said, as calmly as I could muster. He didn't even say another word after that and just went through the door he'd been standing in front of, slamming it harshly behind him. My eyes lingered on the knob of the door a bit absentmindedly before I pulled the wedding ring off my finger and placed it on the table. I grabbed my suitcase, which I'd already had my things packed in and headed out of the house.
P-please, I beg you. Come let's go tell Christian I had no hand in whatever happened, p-please." I clutched the lapel of his jacket desperately. "Let's go. You need to tell my husband you were paid." "Young lady, you're harassing me." His tone was cold and his stare granite. But I could care less. "You harassed me first! You had sex with me without my consent, my husband knows and now I'm pregnant with this child he doesn't want. You ruined my marriage! I-I hate you!" ************************************ Caught by her husband with another man on their matrimonial bed the morning after her birthday, Hailey Codza could not defend herself. As though it's not enough, she gets pregnant. Her enraged husband decides to pay her back for her infidelity by having an affair with his ex-girlfriend - Denise Kellers, the family Hailey never knew she had. Losing her family's wealth and company to her husband and his ex (now girlfriend), she is devastated, homeless and penniless as all her credit cards are blocked by her husband. She sees the man who is responsible for her pregnancy. The man she has no idea how he'd found his way to her matrimonial bed - Jared Johnson. Jared is annoyed when this strange woman disrupts his meeting and accuses him of ruining her life, marriage and impregnating her. It affects his business deals and having no choice, he marries her to calm the public whilst engaged to someone else. But he loathes her and allows his family treats her badly. Hailey who has fallen in love with Jared is broken when she can no longer take the humiliation. She signs the divorce papers and leaves, only to arrive six years later to the country as a self-made, secret billionaire and a mother of twins. Now her two ex-husbands are begging to have her back...
Rumors claimed that Fernanda, newly back with her family, was nothing more than a violent country bumpkin. Fernanda just flashed a casual, dismissive grin in response. Another rumor suggested that the usually rational Cristian had lost all sense, madly in love with Fernanda. This frustrated her. She could tolerate gossip about herself, but slander against her beloved crossed the line! Gradually, as Fernanda's multiple identities as a celebrated designer, a savvy gamer, an acclaimed painter, and a successful business magnate came to light, everyone realized they were the ones who had been fooled.
**This book contains a trigger warning. Mention about rape and torture in this book. Please read with caution** "Our marriage is nothing but a deal," he said looking at the girl, her green eyes met his cold silver eye, and both of them glared at each other. "For any rules you break, I will claim any part of your body," his gaze grew dangerously darker at his word. Ashley Harlow was at the top of the world, living the perfect and luxurious lifestyle as the legitimate daughter of the well-known Daniel Harlow. But sadly, a one-night stand put an end to that and brought her life upside down and that of her family's name to the ground. To restore his family's reputation, she was forced into marrying Damien Albrecht, a young, ruthless, obnoxious, brutal billionaire and the head of a mafia gang in exchange for her father's company.