Next morning, Hazel opened her eyes slowly, yawning as she stretched. She was lying on Francisco’s chest, his arm cradling her head. As she shifted, she felt his palm resting on her belly. Hazel looked up at the ceiling, then turned to gaze at Francisco’s sleepy face.It was the first time she had seen him still asleep. He had really long lashes, and his expression was so serene, almost boyish. Hazel kept her eyes locked on him for a few minutes, a mixture of emotions churning inside her. She then slowly sat up on the bed, careful not to wake him. Francisco remained in deep sleep. Hazel couldn't tell if he was pretending or genuinely asleep.She glanced at the table where his phone lay. The urgency of the situation hit her — she needed access to his phone. Hazel turned back to Francisco, who still hadn't moved. She felt a surge of adrenaline as she inched closer to the phone, her hand trembling slightly. She reached out cautiously, her fingers just about to make contact with the phone
Francisco sat relaxed in his chair, legs crossed, touching his forehead as if pondering his next move. In front of him knelt a mid-aged man, hands and mouth bound, his eyes pleading and desperate. Max stood beside the man, his hands smeared with blood from the recent beating."He sneaked," Max muttered, loading his gun. "Francisco, he’s an informer, I guess."Francisco's eyes narrowed, a cold glint flashing in them. Max raised his hand to slap the man again, but Francisco intervened."Stop!" he commanded, his voice calm but firm."Untie his mouth."Max complied, and the man gasped for air once his gag was removed."I didn’t do anything. I just sneaked here out of curiosity," he stammered."But, you saw a lot of things," Francisco remarked, his tone casual yet menacing."Yes, I agree I did. But I won’t tell anyone about it. I swear," the man pleaded, his voice trembling.Francisco sighed and rose to his feet."Though we didn't find anything from you, I don’t think we need to kill you,"
Hazel looked at herself in the mirror, adjusting the sleek black gown that clung to her figure with a smooth, flattering silhouette. The ruffled sleeves and sweetheart neckline added a touch of elegance, while the skirt flowed into a soft mermaid shape, finishing with a full-length hem. The gown was stunning, but she couldn't help but notice that her closet was dominated by black dresses, a reflection of her current state of mind.She made a loose bun with her hair, leaving a few strands untied to frame her face. Taking a deep breath, she looked at herself critically.She sprayed a light aroma on her neck and wrists, the familiar scent calming her nerves. She glanced at the clock and noted that they were running late. Francisco, known for his punctuality, was not yet back, which worried her slightly.Her thoughts drifted to her father’s call. He mentioned a plan for next Friday.She knew what he was hinting at: she needed to get her hands on Francisco's phone to disable the surroundin
Francisco's hands moved with tender confidence as they traced the curve of Hazel's waist. Their eyes were locked in an intense gaze, each breath they took syncing with the other's. Hazel's fingers danced down Francisco's chest, pausing at his belt."It's bursting," she whispered, her voice a soft caress.Francisco's fingers continued their gentle exploration, his voice a husky murmur, "Shouldn't it?""Doesn't a gentleman have it?"Hazel looked at him; his side face was so sharp, as well the jaw-line. Slowly her gaze moved from her lips to his apple bone, then his nipples, slowly on his abs.Hazel tilted her head slightly, a playful smile tugging at her lips.With a playful tug on his belt, Hazel led Francisco into the bathroom. The Thai glass door slid shut behind them.Francisco's phone, abandoned on the dresser, vibrated incessantly.At Andrew's party, Max checked his watch for the umpteenth time, irritation etched on his face. Francisco had assured him he would be late, but over th
Hazel traced her fingers on Francisco's back, feeling the heat of his skin and the texture of his tattoo. His gentleness contrasted with the depth of his every push, and Hazel couldn't hold back her moans.With a trembling hand, she held Francisco's face, her other arm wrapping around his neck. Francisco kissed her palm tenderly as Hazel cupped his cheek. Each thrust drove Hazel to clutch him tighter, her body responding instinctively.Francisco, sensing her mounting desire, buried his head in her neck. "If it hurts, say it, honey," he murmured, his breath hot against her ear.Hazel bit her lower lip, her thoughts a whirlwind of conflicting desires. 'I want it rough, but this isn't bad either,' she mused, her fingers tangling in his hair. 'You shouldn’t have to be this good.''Am I starting to like it?' she wondered, feeling the intense pleasure building within her. 'Indeed, yes, I’m not just liking it — I’m loving it.'Embracing her true desires, Hazel bit his ear lightly, drawin
Hazel's expression grew stern for a moment at Francisco's words, but she quickly masked it. Francisco leaned closer, his eyes searching hers. Hazel pressed her lips together, not having expected him to say something like that.Making herself appear more composed, Hazel asked, "Family...?""Yes," Hazel hesitated, "but don't you think we need to know each other a bit more first?"She touched Francisco's chest and looked up at him. Family? The idea had never crossed her mind; it was something she had never envisioned for herself.Francisco locked his gaze on her for a few minutes, then a slight smile appeared on his face. He touched her cheek and traced his thumb gently across her soft, reddish skin. With a powerful yet tender voice, he said, "As you wish."Hazel smiled back at him, her initial sternness melting away. Francisco pulled her closer, pressing her head against his chest. Hazel buried her face there, feeling the warmth and strength of his embrace.Francisco did not attend the
Francisco threatened everyone, even the opposite gang leaders. He did not care about anyone and showed the consequences if they opposed him.Francisco got out of the car, and Max did the same. He was mad at Francisco, saying, "Francisco, what is wrong with you?"Francisco unbuttoned his coat as he turned back. "Max, I am not in the mood to talk about it.""Then when?" Max suddenly became agitated. "Why are you playing with your life, Francisco?""Max!" Francisco said in a calm tone. "Let's drop it here. I did it because they needed that.""Oh really," Max shut the car door hastily and moved toward Francisco. "You are doing it because of her.""I know it.""And I am telling you, you are doing wrong. Don't trust her, Francisco."Francisco arched his brows as he heard Max. He tightened his jaw and spoke in a stern voice, "Max, you are interrupting, so don't interrupt my life, never ever.""You know so well how much I hate it."Max took a deep breath, frustration evident in his eyes. "Fra
Max pressed his lips together, the weight of the truth bearing down on him. He had no strength to face it, but he knew he had to tell Diana everything. Leaving Francisco behind was not an option; the underworld activities were now an inseparable part of him, running through his veins like lifeblood.He remembered the promise he made to Diana, to leave this dangerous world behind. But every time he tried, something pulled him back. Francisco needed him, and Max couldn't abandon his friend, especially now.Max parted his lips, his voice trembling slightly. "Diana..." He lifted his eyes to meet hers, filled with pain and resignation. He shook his head slowly, unable to hide the truth any longer. "I can't let him be alone with that girl."Diana's face hardened as she understood the weight of his words. She turned her gaze away, swallowing hard as her emotions churned within her. "So, does it mean I can move on, right?" Her voice was tight, filled with hurt and determination.Max swallowed
"Hazel."Francisco gently guided her to sit beside him, closer than before. He didn’t wait for her response."Our baby will play like them, right?" His voice was soft, almost hopeful.Hazel remained silent.Then, suddenly, she felt a touch on her belly.She froze.Francisco's large palm traced over her stomach, slow and deliberate. Her heartbeat quickened."I wonder how much he or she has developed inside you," he murmured. His words echoed in her mind, stirring something deep within her.When Hazel first learned she was pregnant, her immediate thought was to end it. She didn’t want to carry the child of a man who had turned her life into a nightmare. A mafia king—a ruthless, heartless man.And yet… she couldn’t.Francisco was right. Their child would play one day.She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, and slowly raised her eyes.The moment she did, she met his gaze.Francisco was leaning in closer, watching her intently.A wave of discomfort washed over her. She didn’t wa
"Francisco..."Diana’s voice was weary. She no longer had the strength to argue. Max had tried and failed. Now, so had she.With a deep sigh, she murmured, "I really don’t know what to say to you."She looked at him, her expression filled with concern. "But I don’t want my brother to lose himself over someone else.""You’ve already made so many mistakes, Francisco."Francisco’s gaze remained cold. "Diana, no matter what happens, I will not leave her."His voice was firm, unwavering. "This is my world… and no one has the power to challenge me."Diana studied his face, searching for even a flicker of doubt. There was none.She sighed again, softer this time. "You don’t understand.""You’ve bound her to your dark world, Francisco. You’ve dragged her into danger. She can easily become prey to your enemies."Francisco arched a brow, his voice turning sharp. "Before that happens, I will destroy everything."Diana’s eyes widened in disbelief.Diana let out a weary sigh and nodded. "Actually,
Francisco and Hazel sat together at the dining table. The warm aroma of chicken soup filled the air as Francisco placed a bowl in front of her.Hazel picked up the spoon, staring at the soup for a moment. She didn’t feel like eating, but she knew Francisco wouldn't let her off so easily.“Just take a sip,” he said, watching her closely.She pressed her lips together, then hesitantly took the spoon to her mouth. The flavor was mild, not too spicy, just warm enough to be comforting. She took another spoonful, then another.Slowly, she finished the bowl.Francisco observed her, satisfied. He turned to Lily and said, “Help her get ready.”Hazel looked at him, brows slightly furrowed.“Are we going somewhere?” she asked.“Yes…” Francisco said, his tone unreadable. “We’re going to the hospital for a check-up.”Hazel blinked, processing his words. She said nothing, simply stood up and went upstairs to get ready.**A short while later, they were in the car, driving toward the hospital. The a
"Yes…"A heavy silence filled the air."Yes, you will be free."Francisco’s voice was firm, unwavering. His blue eyes held no warmth, only a cold determination.Hazel let out a bitter chuckle. "Liar!"Francisco didn’t flinch. Instead, he met her gaze and spoke again, his tone deadly serious."I promise you again…"Hazel’s fingers curled into fists."I will do whatever you ask."Her breath hitched."But—"Her eyes locked onto his, waiting, expecting."But you can’t push me away from you during these months."Francisco leaned closer, his voice almost pleading but still wrapped in authority."I want to be with you… and our child."Hazel inhaled sharply.She searched his face, trying to read beyond his words, beyond his promises.This man—who had taken everything from her—was still trying to claim more.Minutes passed.Francisco called her name again. "Hazel…"She finally exhaled and gave in. "Okay."Francisco shut his eyes for a moment, and then, suddenly, he pulled her into a tight embr
Hazel’s breathing grew ragged, her vision fading into darkness.The world around her blurred.Dizzy… too dizzy…Her body swayed.“Miss…?”“Miss Hazel, what’s wrong?”No response.Then—she collapsed.Lily’s eyes widened in horror. The guards stiffened, panic flashing across their faces.If something happened to Hazel, Francisco would not spare them.“Miss Hazel!” Lily cried, rushing forward, catching Hazel before she hit the ground.Her hands trembled as she patted Hazel’s cheeks, but there was no reaction.“Quickly! Take her to the room! I’ll call Miss Diana!” she ordered.One of the guards wasted no time. He lifted Hazel’s unconscious body into his arms and hurried toward the staircase.But just as he reached the first step—They all froze.A dark figure stood before the door.Francisco.A heavy silence fell over the room.Lily and the guards felt their hearts drop, their faces going pale.Behind Francisco stood Max, his expression unreadable.He had returned.From Italy.And now—he
"Please, let me go from here," Hazel pleaded, her voice trembling with desperation.Lily's face fell, her expression filled with concern.She shook her head and said softly, "Miss, please calm down.""It won’t be good for you."Hazel’s eyes narrowed as she looked up at Lily."What?" she asked, her voice rising."Why?""Let me go! Francisco isn’t even here!"Lily pressed her lips together, trying to find the right words. But before she could respond, Hazel’s breathing grew erratic.She started shaking her head violently, her emotions spiraling out of control."Miss, please," Lily whispered, reaching out to hold her.Hazel’s chest rose and fell rapidly."Let me go!" she screamed.Her hands trembled as she shoved Lily away from her with all her strength.Lily stumbled backward, her eyes widening in shock.Hazel’s heart pounded as she turned toward the door.Without thinking, she rushed forward, yanking the door open.Her pulse spiked when she saw two guards standing there, looking at her
Kevin Hilton, the former leader of the Snake Clan, was a man whose name commanded fear and respect. He was Francisco’s grandfather, a man who had built a legacy so powerful that no one dared to challenge his authority. His influence remained unshaken, his status immovable.As Francisco’s words echoed through the room, Kevin slowly turned back to face him. His expression remained unreadable, but his sharp eyes studied his grandson carefully.Francisco kept his gaze lowered, his hands clenched into fists.After a brief silence, he finally spoke. "And I want to spend my whole life with her."Kevin blinked slowly, fully turning toward Francisco this time. His presence was overwhelming, his voice firm and demanding."Is that so?" He arched a brow. "It seems you’ve already made up your mind."Francisco didn’t respond. He remained silent, his body tense.Kevin exhaled, his patience thinning. He could see that Francisco would not bend to his will, not this time. His voice grew colder, more co
"How are you, my dear?" Francisco said in a low tone.Hazel remained soundly asleep.Francisco gently traced his fingers over her head, his touch soft and lingering. Hazel shifted slightly, as if comforted by his presence.He kept his gaze on her for a few minutes before whispering, "Thank you."The Next MorningHazel woke up, blinking away sleep. She sat up on the bed and gazed out through the Thai glass doors leading to the balcony.Last night... I felt someone was here with me. Was it Francisco? She clenched her jaw. I know he messed up something—that's why he vanished.I don’t know when this will end. When will I be free from this monster?I hate him.I just hate him.One Month LaterIt had been a month, and Hazel felt restless. Her period was late, which made her uneasy.She finally asked Lily to call Diana.Now, Diana sat in front of her, her expression unreadable."I missed my period," Hazel murmured, her voice laced with irritation.She couldn't understand what was wrong with
"Then let me go," Hazel said firmly.Max’s expression remained stern, his eyes narrowing.She stepped closer, lowering her voice. "Francisco isn’t here. Just let me go. I promise I won’t cause any trouble for you or anyone else."Max arched an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced.Hazel’s gaze locked onto his, her heart pounding. For the last time, God, let my manipulation work, she prayed silently. But Max’s face remained impassive. Suddenly, he shoved her backward, his voice cold and sharp. "If you weren’t Francisco’s girl, I’d kill you right here and now.""Better if you cooperate with Francisco and stop thinking about escaping," he added, his tone dripping with finality.Hazel stood still for a moment, trying to steady herself. Her chest tightened as frustration surged through her. "I was just trying to save you and your friend from more trouble," she said, her voice laced with sarcasm. "But it seems you’re not interested."Her tone shifted, quieter but full of bitterness. "Fine, then. Le