For years, Sofia had always dreamed of escaping her privileged and drama-filled life in France. And when her engagement to her boyfriend fell through, she finally had an excuse to make that dream a reality. She packed her bags and left for Los Angeles with the hopes of starting fresh, but she had no idea just how eventful her life was about to become. One day, Sofia lands a job as an assistant to the world's top underwear model, who just so happens to be drop-dead gorgeous. Things start to get complicated when they almost hook up and Sofia accidentally loses his number. Just when she thought that was the end of it, her mother unexpectedly arrives with bodyguards, adding a new level of chaos to her life. But as Sofia struggles to navigate the sudden turn of events, she realizes that the biggest drama in her life wasn't going to come from a wedding she was trying to avoid - it was going to come from herself. Will she be able to put the pieces back together and find the life she's always wanted, or will the drama be too much for her to handle? Only time will tell.
Sofia's POV
My friends in America think I have the best brother in the world because he paid for a private charter plane to bring adult cream pies to one of my parties.
But he's Machiavelli and Lucifer's bastard love child. So for the good of mankind, I'm going to murder him. Then ask Dad for understanding and forgiveness. It's too much to wait for the silver Mercedes to come to a complete stop.
Or for my chauffeur/bodyguard to open the door. Seething, I jump out and march into the glossy skyscraper that houses the Golden Gate Group's headquarters in downtown Paris.
I walk through the vast lobby, the clacking of my Chanel heels like a metronome on the marble floor. My entourage follows. They're my mom's spies, but I tolerate them and pretend I don't know what they're really up to because they can be useful.
Look at Exhibit One Ms. Katherine serves as my assistant when she isn't reporting my every move to my mom. She's rushing forward to hit the button for the executive elevator car to make sure that the doors are open and ready for me to step right in.
I'm not an executive at my family's giant multinational conglomerate, but I get to use the special glossy black elevator anyway because my doting dad, who's chairman of the Golden Gate Group, gave me access. It's too bad Charles hasn't received the memo.
But I'm going to make very sure he gets it in the next few minutes. The elevator doors shut, and Ms. Katherine hits the button for the thirty-ninth floor, where my brother's office is located.
My temper is boiling, but I try not to scowl. What Charles did was infuriating, but it's not worth getting wrinkles for. No. Instead of having fury create lines on my face, I'm going to unload on my older brother.
He deserves nothing less. How dare he. The second the elevator stops and the door opens, I walk out. Ms. Katherine follows, along with two bodyguards. Ms. Lucia, the most senior of Charles four executive assistants, starts to rise from her desk.
She's also the most conservatively dressed, in a black skirt suit with pantyhose and heels. She even has pearls in her ears. Her face is covered in multiple shades of nude makeup, which, unfortunately, makes her appear oddly colorless.
"Ms. Ben," she says, her tone very circumspect. "Mr. Ben isn't available " I raise a hand. "Don't. I know he doesn't have an appointment." I have my own eyes and ears at the headquarters.
Although I have no managerial power at the company, I have something better ready access to my father. He indulges me and lets me have what I want, as long as it's within reason.
But "within reason" is pretty wide when it comes to my requests. Everyone at Golden Gate knows this, and they suck up to me some overtly, some subtly. And I use it to my advantage. I need, to survive cases like this.
Ms. Lucia bites her lip but doesn't try very hard to stop me. Getting in my way wouldn't end well for her. I open the double doors to Charles corner office. It's enormous, the décor tasteful, with bright, neutral colors. Two entire walls are made of glass.
They overlook the Seine River and the sprawling city that houses almost twenty percent of the country's population. It's a massively urban landscape, complete with bustling crowds, snarling traffic, and distant hills.
But one thing mars the vista a gigantic black-and-white billboard featuring a hot underwear model whose face is so gorgeous it's gotta be Photoshopped. Too bad for Charles, it's a male model...with a huge bulge, you can't miss.
Too bad it doesn't glow neon pink in the dark. That'd serve my brother right, especially since he loves to work late. Charles looks up from a black leather folio, a small frown on his face. Unlike me, he doesn't care much about getting wrinkles. But then, he's male and married to a perfect merger wife.
He doesn't need to keep his face pretty anymore. He just has to be fit enough to look decent in the bespoke Italian suits he loves more than his spouse. "Sofia," he says, his voice cool. "You don't have an appointment." I point a finger accusingly.
"I don't need an appointment to see my family! Especially when that family happens to be an irritating older brother who ruined my shopping! Do you know how humiliating it is to have all your cards declined?" "Hmm..." He makes a show of consideration. "No. It's never happened to me. Coffee?" My blood pressure skyrockets.
I wonder if I can throw him against one of his giant windows hard enough to break it and drop him thirty-nine stories. But the glass looks thick. So probably not, assuming my anger would give me the strength to toss my much larger older brother around in the first place.
The only option left is punching holes in his head with my spiky stilettos. Or better yet, poison the specialty snacks in the break room next door. Ms. Helen ordered them just for him, but I know a few things that would give him epic diarrhea.
"I don't want coffee!" I say. "I want to know why you froze my accounts!" He leaves the chair and comes around the desk then gestures at one of the couches in the seating area. Since I'm feeling pissed, I take his favorite armchair and cross my legs.
He raises an eyebrow but sits down on the couch to my left. One arm draped along the back of his seat, he regards me coolly. "You didn't go to the restaurant as I asked." I pause for a second, wondering what he's talking about.
Then I remember Ms. Katherine relaying a message about meeting Dossier #32 for a freakin' Matsun Date. I told her there was no way I was going on that particular type of blind date. Matsun Date is what you do when you're serious about considering the other person as a spouse.
"You froze my cards over that?" I stare at Charles in shock. "Yes. I told you, Father and Mother want me to have you married by the end of the year. I'm going to do whatever it takes. I already had Ms. Helen order a dress and reserve a venue for you. All you need to do is show up with a groom."
"And I told you that the man isn't my type, and I don't want your assistant planning my wedding! You weren't listening, were you?"
Jackson King, the Alpha King, is desperate to secure his legacy and save his pack from extinction. He needs a surrogate to carry his child, and he's willing to pay handsomely for it. However, his chosen candidate, Layla Carlisle, a half-human and half-wolf, refuses his offer. Despite her initial rejection, Jackson is determined to make her change her mind, using any means necessary. As he struggles with his own darkness and the demands of his beast, Cain, Jackson must confront the consequences of his own cursed fate and the truth about his mate. Will Layla eventually agree to carry his child, or will Jackson's secrets and lies tear them apart?
Blue Learley, a bright and adventurous seventeen-year-old girl, lived a peaceful life in a small town with her loving parents and two protective brothers. Her days were filled with laughter, friendship, and dreams of a future filled with promise. But on one fateful night, her life took a devastating turn. Demetrius Easton, the ruthless and feared werewolf king, laid eyes on her, and his obsession was ignited. With a single glance, Blue became the object of Demetrius's unrelenting desire, and he would stop at nothing to claim her as his bride. But what should have been a nightmare scenario became a harsh reality when her own parents, blinded by greed and fear, betrayed her trust and sold her to the merciless werewolf king. With no escape from the clutches of Demetrius's unyielding grasp, Blue found herself trapped in a world of ancient traditions, dark magic, and unbridled power. Her once-peaceful life was now a distant memory, replaced by the constant terror of being at the mercy of a monster. With no one to turn to for help, Blue must rely on her own resilience and determination to survive the unrelenting forces that seek to consume her. As she navigates the treacherous landscape of Demetrius's kingdom, Blue will discover hidden strengths, unexpected allies, and the true depths of her own courage. But will it be enough to overcome the darkness that threatens to engulf her, or will she become just another pawn in the werewolf king's sinister game of power and control?
Sometimes, escaping the life you've known becomes a tempting salvation. That's the choice that Nate, an ex-band member grappling with a harrowing heroin addiction, makes when he opts to start anew on an island. His journey of recovery takes an unexpected twist when Abby, a woman also escaping her tumultuous past, enters the scene. Six years prior, the gruesome murder of Abby's mother and Abby's own brutal assault caught the nation's attention. While the two could not be more different, they find a compelling bond growing between them as Abby sees Nate's struggles and decides to lend a hand. Despite this newfound connection, Nate's world is rooted in Los Angeles, while Abby's cannot dare return to the mainland. With this difficult circumstance hanging over their heads, they find themselves faced with a significant question - Can they possibly nurture their sprouting romance despite their varying pasts and present realities?
THIS IS A COMPILATION OF ALL MY EROTICA BOOKS Within the shadowy realm of desires untold and the echoes of illicit whispers, an exciting universe awaits the brave of heart. Welcome to the provoking collection of erotica, where every page will thrill, chill, and provoke all manner of responses you never thought literature could invoke. Delicate yet defiant, carnal yet spiritual, the power of sensual human connections reign supreme in these scribed records. Tucked away within the passionate folds of this compendium, lovers transgress boundaries and consummate their unions in secret places, reveling in the rapturous exchange of emotional intensity, delicate beauty, and voluptuous fervor. In these explicit narrations, relationships unfurl themselves in an evocative symphony of words, bold and fearless.
In a quiet town lies a striking, successful surgeon, Cole Becker. A man so enticing he captures the attention of every woman he meets. Admired for his impeccable looks, bustling medical career and his enchanting son, Cole's life seems the very embodiment of perfection. However, despite all his achievements, there is an empty spot in his life longing to be filled - the need for a loving woman. Allie O'Keefe, the new girl next door, couldn't help but notice her enchanting neighbor. As an innocent and pure 24-year-old fleeing from the hectic city life, the allure of a simple life next to the alluring doctor becomes increasingly irresistible. Allie, oblivious of the depths and layers hidden behind Cole's charismatic façade, gets lured into his captivating world. As the spark between them begins to kindle, Allie gradually becomes aware of Cole's haunting secrets, causing an unforeseen storm in their emerging romance. Despite the intensity of their blossoming relationship, Cole's obscure past becomes an imminent threat. With their love story hanging in the balance, the question arises - can love overcome the dark and unsaid mysteries of one's past or is it destined to fall apart?
Wealthy businessman Aiden Walker spirals into a dark abyss following a catastrophic plane crash that claims his beloved family. He sheds his opulent lifestyle and seeks solitude within the four walls of his vast Savannah mansion. However, his sanctuary isn't immune to external torment, as he becomes the target of a ruinous lawsuit by a bereaved family who lost their son in the same tragic event. Caught in her family's web of indifference following her brother's untimely demise in the same crash, Lexa Patterson, a dedicated ER nurse, stumbles upon the forlorn billionaire under unforeseen circumstances. As Aiden stumbles into her ER after a drunken bike accident, Lexa is struck by the vulnerable side of this influential tycoon. Ignoring ethical boundaries, Lexa decides to delve deeper into the tormented world of the reclusive Aiden Walker. In an intoxicating game of passion and lies, Lexa treads a perilous path by concealing her true identity. An unexpected connection blooms amidst grief and despair, as Aiden and Lexa seek solace in each other's company. But how long can Lexa keep her true identity veiled? Will their newfound love stand the test of truth or shatter under the weight of their secrets? Veil of Lies: A High Stakes Affair weaves a captivating narrative around fate's twisted games, insatiable grief, and the desperate search for love and solace.
"There will be no falling in love, we will only act as a loving couple when we are in public, we will share a room to make it believable, but no intimacy, touching is off-limits. We'll only have sex once a month, and that's solely to produce an heir. You won't interfere in my business, and I won't interfere in yours. You will be my wife in every sense and you will not be involved with any other man," he said, arrogance seeping from every word. I watch his mouth move, I'm not ready to fall in love with any man, especially not one as arrogant and egoistic as him. I can handle acting as a loving couple, and as for intimacy once a month. I can agree to that just to satisfy my sexual cravings with no strings attached. "Where can I sign?" I asked since I had nothing to lose. *** Nadine's wedding dreams turned to nightmares when she caught her sister and fiancé cheating! With a secret recording, she's ready for revenge. But then mysterious billionaire Logan West offers a deal: A Contract Marriage to take down her ex's empire. But what Nadine doesn't know is her life is getting complicated as she takes her chance to get revenge or risks everything for a chance at love?"
Three years ago, Cecilia was left battered and alone by the man she loved most, Alston, yet she bravely completed the wedding ceremony while pregnant. Three years later, although they were married, they grew apart over time. Cecilia focused on her career, no longer foolishly believing in love. But her transformation instantly threw Alston into a panic... And what is the secret from 11 years ago that Cecilia has always been reluctant to reveal? *** "She went to a law firm, met with a lawyer..." A lawyer? Is Cecilia suing someone? Who? Is there any recent litigation against the company? Alston suddenly chuckled coldly, "Who could she sue? I'm the CEO of this company. How come such a matter doesn't come to me first?" The assistant swallowed nervously, speaking softly, "Sir, there's no litigation against the company. She met with... a divorce lawyer."
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.
"Then let's get a divorce!" With courage, Leora left her husband's house, after being accused of poisoning his mistress. Her in-laws and sister-in-law had planned various ways to kick her out of Peter's house and in the end Leora gave in. However, no one expected that things would turn 180 degrees after the divorce. When everyone who had hurt her was happy with each other's lies, Leora returned. This time, she was no longer the poor orphan girl from the orphanage. She has changed and not only that, she also carries a big secret that will make everyone turn to worship her feet.
Rumors said that Lucas married an unattractive woman with no background. In the three years they were together, he remained cold and distant to Belinda, who endured in silence. Her love for him forced her to sacrifice her self-worth and her dreams. When Lucas' true love reappeared, Belinda realized that their marriage was a sham from the start, a ploy to save another woman's life. She signed the divorce papers and left. Three years later, Belinda returned as a surgical prodigy and a maestro of the piano. Lost in regret, Lucas chased her in the rain and held her tightly. "You are mine, Belinda."
My name is Katia, and I am just trying to survive until my fated mate arrives. Which may be easier said than done. Rejectection is the last straw. Whispering my acceptance of his rejection. I run through the pack house, out across the manicured lawn into the forest. "I'm sorry, my sweet girl," I say to my wolf. I'm sorry you have been stuck with me and have had to suffer everything I have. She whispers," it's not your fault, Katia. We came to a cliff with a waterfall. The hurt keeps pounding at me. I need it to stop. My sweet girl, and I just want peace, I keep running and leap off the cliff. Spreading my arms wide, with tears streaming down my face, I fall, not making a sound, waiting for sweet oblivion where we feel nothing ever again. "I love you, my sweet girl! Until we meet again, "My wolf replied just before we hit the water, "I love you too, Katia. I have never regretted a moment with you." The Snow Moon pack is having their last barbecue of the summer next to the waterfall on their land. The adults are laughing and joking while watching the pups play. The alpha, beta, and gamma are swimming with some of the older children and playing a game of Marco Polo. Someone yells, "Oh my goddess, someone just jumped over the waterfall!" Everyone is frozen as they watch what looks to be a child falling arms spread wide, no one makes a sound. The small body hits the water like a plane crashing into the side of a mountain. The alpha, beta, and gamma, spring into action, swimming towards the area the person went under. The alpha is screaming his wolf is going crazy repeating, "Find her. Find her...find her!" They dive and the beta surfaces with a small person in his arms. Alpha takes the girl from his beta, laying her on the ground. The men are shocked by what they see. She is covered in scars and injuries. Her body is twisted and broken. The Beta asks, "Who could have done this to someone so defenseless?" Alpha drops to his knees, repeating, "MATE...MATE...MATE!"