Corporate Whispers and Hidden Desires

Chapter One

As night fell, the cold moon hung high in the sky. The bright moonlight fell on the ancient castle on the edge of the city, casting a mysterious silver veil around it. Emily stood on the balcony, looking at the forest in the distance, and felt a chill rising from the bottom of her heart. Since moving to this castle, her life has become bizarre and mysterious.
The cold wind in October swept across her bare shoulders, bringing a shudder. Emily subconsciously wrapped her woolen shawl tightly around her, but she couldn't feel any warmth. This castle seems to be always cold, just like its mysterious owner Lucas Black, exuding an inaccessible atmosphere.
"Miss Emily," suddenly, a low voice sounded behind her, "You'll catch a cold if you're still outside so late."
She turned around and saw Lucas standing at the balcony door. The moonlight outlined his tall figure. He was wearing a dark silk shirt, and the collar vaguely revealed his strong chest. The amber eyes flickered strangely in the darkness, as if they could see through her soul.
"Mr. Black," Emily whispered, trying to hide the trembling in her voice, "I'm just admiring the moonlight."
Lucas took a step forward, but suddenly stopped. Emily noticed that his body stiffened instantly, and his nostrils fluttered slightly, as if he was sniffing something. His expression became solemn, and a glimmer of wildness flashed in his eyes, but was quickly suppressed.
"Please go in," his voice was hoarser than usual, "It's not safe here."
Just then, a cold night breeze swept across the balcony, bringing a faint smell of rust. Emily saw that Lucas's fingers were almost pinched into the stone railing, and his knuckles were white. She couldn't help but take a step back, her heartbeat accelerated.
"I thought this castle was the safest place," she whispered, "after all, you are here."
Lucas let out an almost inaudible growl, "Some danger, Miss Emily, is much closer than you think." His eyes looked unusually sharp in the moonlight, "especially on a full moon night."
Suddenly, a wolf howl came from the distant forest, shrill and long. Emily was surprised to find that Lucas' pupils shrank in an instant and turned into vertical pupils like a beast, but the fleeting change made her wonder if it was just an illusion caused by the moonlight.
Just then, a cold breath passed by her from behind, accompanied by a chuckle. Emily turned around and saw only a dark shadow flashing in the corner of the balcony. When she looked back again, Lucas had come to her side, with a hand gently on her shoulder.
"I'll take you back to your room," he said, with an unquestionable commanding tone in his voice. Emily noticed that his palms were surprisingly hot, in sharp contrast to the chill of the castle.
Walking in the dark corridor of the castle, Emily could feel Lucas' presence, he walked behind her like a silent guardian. Moonlight poured in through the Gothic stained glass windows, casting mottled shadows on the floor.
"Good night, Miss Emily," Lucas whispered in front of her door, "Remember, no matter what sound you hear, don't leave the room tonight."
"Why?" Emily asked subconsciously.
Lucas was silent for a moment, his eyes looked deep and dangerous in the moonlight, "Because the moonlight tonight is too beautiful, it will always wake up something that shouldn't wake up."
When the door closed behind her, Emily leaned against the door, her heartbeat still alarmingly fast. She could hear Lucas's footsteps gradually fading away, but she seemed to hear the sound of wings flapping outside the window. She walked to the window and looked out through the glass.
In the moonlit courtyard, she saw a figure standing by the fountain. The man looked up at her window, and the moonlight illuminated his pale marble face - it was Draco, with a mysterious smile on his lips and a dangerous light in his eyes. When Emily blinked, his figure had disappeared, as if he had never appeared. Emily lay trembling on the bed, listening to the wolf howling outside the window. She knew that she had fallen into a world full of dangers, and this was just the beginning. On this moonlit night, her fate was closely linked to two mysterious and dangerous beings, and there was no turning back.

Chapter Two

In the dead of night, Emily lay in bed, the faces of Lucas and Draco appeared in her mind. She could not resist the deep attraction, but she also knew that she was caught in a dangerous vortex. She knew that the confrontation between the two men was a life-and-death hostility, and she was just a pawn in their war. A corner of her heart reminded her to escape, but the deeper desire pulled her to stay in this mysterious castle, looking forward to the unknown encounter.

        Just as she was about to fall asleep, a slight knock on the window interrupted the silence. Emily opened her eyes, and the moonlight poured into the room through the curtains, making the corners of the room particularly dark. She sat up subconsciously, trembling slightly and walked to the window. When she opened the curtains, a figure was standing in front of her, cold and elegant.

        It was Draco.

        "Sorry, I scared you, Emily." His low voice was frivolous and indifferent, as if every word revealed his unfathomable darkness. His eyes were like two flames in the abyss, locking onto her with an irresistible force.

        "How... are you here?" Emily's heartbeat quickened, and her hands unconsciously clenched a corner of the curtain. She knew she should be scared at this moment, but Draco's unique charm made it hard for her to resist.

        Draco did not answer her question, but slowly approached, lowered his head and whispered in her ear: "You know why I'm here, Emily. You've never really been afraid of me, right?"

        The moment he approached, she smelled the cold breath on him, as if it came from the night a thousand years ago. Her breathing gradually became rapid, but she did not retreat, but was locked by his eyes, as if her soul was also attracted to him.

        "Draco... we can't do this." Her voice was weak, but she did not retreat at all, as if even she herself was struggling with contradictions.

        "You don't belong here at all, Emily. Staying here will only put you in deeper danger." Draco gently lifted her chin, with a smile on the corner of his cold mouth, that smile was both gentle and dangerous, "But if you want to know the real darkness, then come. I will take you to see everything."

        At this moment, the door was pushed open, and Lucas' figure appeared at the door like a shadow. His face was gloomy, and his eyes were burning with anger. It was his possessiveness and anger that he could not hide. He walked towards Draco step by step, his hands clenched, his muscles tensed, as if he was going to pounce on and tear the enemy in front of him in the next second.

        "Draco, let her go." Lucas' voice was low and threatening, like an enraged beast. It was the first time Emily saw him so out of control, his eyes were like a ball of unextinguishable fire, revealing uncontrollable anger and possessiveness.

        Draco smiled slightly, released Emily's chin, and looked at Lucas provocatively. "Don't you understand yet? She doesn't belong to you. The savagery of the wolf tribe is nothing but a bondage to her, and I can give her true freedom."

        "The 'freedom' you mentioned will only make her fall into darkness. You don't understand what true protection is." Lucas sneered, his eyes as sharp as an eagle. He slowly stepped forward, blocked Emily, and protected her behind him. That was his attitude as the wolf king, firm and unshakable.

        Emily was sandwiched between the two, feeling her heartbeat speed up, as if breathing became difficult. These two completely different forces intertwined and collided in front of her, making it impossible for her to decide which side to choose.

        Draco raised the corners of his mouth and slowly took a step back, his eyes still on Emily. "Emily, one day you will find that he can't satisfy the desire in your heart. And I am your true home."

        As soon as the voice fell, Draco's figure disappeared into the night, as if he had never appeared.

        Lucas looked at the empty room, his fists gradually loosened, but the anger and worry in his eyes remained. He turned around and looked at Emily softly, but his eyes still flashed with contradictions and forbearance.

        "Are you okay?" He asked in a low voice, with a trace of undisguised concern in his voice.

        Emily nodded, but her heart was in turmoil and it was difficult to calm down. She knew that she had fallen too deep. She could not let go of these two men easily, nor could she easily resist them. A complex emotion surged in her heart, which was a dangerous and fatal attraction.

        "Lucas, I..." She wanted to say something, but lost her words when she met his eyes.

        "Don't get close to him." Lucas' voice was low, with a hint of pleading and warning, "I know you feel confused, but Draco is not what you think. He will only drag you into the darkness, and I won't let him hurt you."

        Emily just looked at him silently, and a touch of uncertainty gradually rose in her heart. She knew that this was not just a war, but a contest of feelings and desires. In this dangerous triangle relationship, she has gone too far and can never turn back.

Chapter Three

Emily stayed awake all night. The wind outside the window blew through the woods, making a low moan, as if the whole castle was whispering in her ear. She curled up in bed, recalling Draco's cold smile and Lucas's deep eyes. Two completely different attractions stirred in her heart, making her lost on the edge of danger and desire.

        When the sky was slightly bright, she made a decision. She had to figure out what she wanted, the wildness and protection of the wolf tribe, or the mystery and temptation of the vampire. She got up and walked out of the room, walked through the deserted corridor, and came to the door of Lucas's study.

        The door of the study was slightly open, and a whisper came from inside. Emily stood outside the door and pricked up her ears to listen.

        "She is innocent, Lucas." A low and gentle female voice came from Lucas's sister, Leila. Emily had heard rumors about her. Leila was the wisest prophet in the wolf tribe and could always see fragments of the future.

        "I know, Leila." Lucas' voice was hoarse, as if he had struggled all night, "but I can't control myself, I can't suppress my desire for her. I'm afraid that if she stays with me, she will only be swallowed by my darkness."

        Emily's heart trembled, and she raised her hand to push open the door.

        "Lucas." Her voice was abrupt and firm in the silent room.

        The two turned around and saw her standing at the door with a hint of determination in her eyes. She walked slowly towards Lucas, looked up at him, with a hint of determination and inquiry in her eyes.

        "I know you protect me, but I'm not a fragile child." Her voice was calm and firm, "I need to know the truth. Why are you always so hesitant? And why is Draco so persistent in approaching me?"

        Lucas' expression froze for a moment, his eyes wandering on her face, as if he was weighing whether to tell her everything. Finally, he took a deep breath, as if he had made up his mind.

        "Emily, the fate of our werewolves is usually determined at birth. The wolf tribe has a unique ability to perceive its partner. When we find that person, we will feel an attraction that cannot be ignored... and you are my destined partner." Lucas spoke in a low voice, with pain and desire flashing in his eyes.

        Emily's heartbeat accelerated, and thousands of emotions surged in her mind, both shocked and confused. She never thought that she would become his destined partner, and his possessiveness and protectiveness of her turned out to come from this ancient bond.

        She asked softly: "What about Draco? Why is he so obsessed with me?"

        Lucas's eyes became more gloomy, and there was a hint of anger in his eyes. "Draco's tribe never believed in fate. They prefer to dominate their own future. And he believes that as long as he possesses you, he can destroy me and the traditional beliefs of the wolf tribe. So, he is not sincere to you, but to weaken my power."

        Emily's heart suddenly tightened, and a hint of anger and loss surged in her eyes. However, she also felt a little unwilling, as if she was just a tool in this struggle, being fought over and torn by the two, and she had no right to control herself.

        "So, Lucas, are you sincere? Is it just fate for me?" There was a hint of disappointment in her voice, and her eyes became cold.

        Lucas was stunned, as if he was hurt by her question. He was silent for a moment before speaking: "Emily, I can't deny the existence of fate, but I can't ignore my feelings for you." He gently held her hand, his eyes full of affection and desire, "Whether it is fate or something else, I am willing to give up everything for you."

        Just then, a slight sound came from outside the window. Emily turned back suddenly and saw a pair of dark red eyes flashing outside the window, like a flame in the dark, and the familiar cold breath startled her heart.

        It was Draco.

        He stood outside the window, sneering at them, as if everything was under his control. He knocked on the window lightly, his voice cold and full of provocation: "I don't think it's possible to talk about 'betraying' everything here, Lucas. You can't protect her because she will eventually come to me."

        Lucas' eyes immediately became cold and dangerous. He stood in front of Emily, glared at Draco outside the window, and growled in a low voice: "Stay away from her, Draco. You can't force her to choose darkness."

        Draco smiled slightly, his eyes full of evil confidence. He raised his eyebrows at Emily, as if everything was under his control. "Dear Emily, you will find that the bright world cannot satisfy your desire. And darkness - is your destination." After he finished speaking, his figure instantly disappeared into the night.

        The room returned to silence, but the air was filled with tension and uneasiness. Emily looked at the empty darkness outside the window, feeling both fear and desire in her heart. She could no longer deny Draco's attraction to her, and the danger and mystery made her heart beat faster.

        Lucas noticed her hesitation, and a trace of pain and uneasiness flashed in his eyes. He gently held her hand and whispered, "Emily, don't get close to him. His darkness will devour you and make you lost in the endless night."

        She didn't respond, but just looked at him silently, her heart full of complicated emotions. She knew that she could no longer simply withdraw from the two of them. Her fate had been drawn into an uncontrollable vortex, and the only thing she could do was to follow her heart and touch the unknown darkness.

Chapter Four

As autumn deepened, the forest surrounding the castle donned a cloak of gold and crimson. Yet Emily felt none of the season's warmth. Since that night's revelation, her mind had been in constant turmoil, with Lucas's truth and Draco's temptation intertwining like two serpents in her thoughts, leaving her breathless.

        That evening, Emily found herself alone in the castle's library, searching through ancient tomes for any mention of werewolves and vampires. As she focused on a yellowed manuscript, the air suddenly turned cold. Looking up, she found Draco standing across from her, his appearance as silent as shadow.

        "Seeking truth, my dear Emily?" Draco leaned elegantly against the bookshelf, wearing a deep purple silk shirt that made his skin appear even paler. "But you know, written accounts are often one-sided."

        Emily instinctively stepped back. "Why do you always appear like this? It's unsettling."

        Draco chuckled softly, moving toward her with fluid grace. "Because I enjoy seeing you startled. It makes you even more enticing." His fingers traced her cheek, the cold touch making her shiver. "Lucas told you I'm merely using you, but did he mention that his fate is actually a chain binding him?"

        Emily froze. "What do you mean?"

        "The werewolves' so-called destined mates are nothing but constraints in their bloodline," Draco's voice carried a hypnotic power. "They're forced to love someone, forced to protect them. Isn't that tragic? While I..." his gaze deepened, "I choose you because I'm truly drawn to you."

        A low growl suddenly echoed from the doorway. Lucas stood there, his eyes now golden, filled with rage. "Step away from her, Draco!" His voice carried an unmistakable threat.

        Instead of retreating, Draco pulled Emily closer. "Why so angry, Lucas? Is it because I spoke the truth, or because you fear she might choose me?"

        The tension in the air grew thick enough to cut. Emily could feel the energy between the two men threatening to tear the room apart. Lucas's body trembled as he fought to control the beast within.

        "Enough!" Emily suddenly shouted, "What am I to both of you? Some trophy to be won?" Her voice carried both anger and hurt.

        Both men froze. Pain flashed across Lucas's eyes, while Draco's expression turned contemplative.

        Emily pushed away from Draco and walked toward the door, but paused beside Lucas. "You say I'm your destiny, but have you considered my feelings?" Her voice was soft but accusatory. "And you, Draco, if you truly cared for me, you wouldn't use me as a weapon against him."

        She hurried from the library, and only when she reached the corridor did her tears finally fall. She didn't know whom to trust - Lucas, chosen by fate, or Draco, who chose her himself? More importantly, she began to question whether she truly understood her own heart.

        As night fell, Emily stood on her balcony. Wolves howled in the distant forest, while somewhere in the castle, she thought she heard the flutter of bat wings. Everything reminded her that she stood at the crossroads between two worlds, and she had to make a choice.

        Then she noticed items on the balcony railing: a rose as black as night with a blood-red sheen - Draco's mark. Beside it lay a wolf fang necklace, a werewolf protection charm, obviously left by Lucas.

        Emily gently touched both items, her internal conflict growing stronger. She knew that choosing either would alter her destiny forever. But more importantly, she needed to understand what her heart truly desired.

        As moonlight bathed the castle grounds, Emily realized that her decision wouldn't just be about choosing between two men - it was about choosing what kind of life she wanted, and more importantly, who she wanted to become.

Chapter Five

The following days in the castle were filled with an unbearable tension. Emily found herself constantly caught between shadows and silence, between warmth and cold. Every corner seemed to hold either Lucas's protective presence or Draco's seductive whispers. The weight of their attention was becoming increasingly suffocating.

        One particularly cold morning, Emily discovered a mysterious leather-bound book in the library's restricted section. Its pages contained ancient prophecies about the eternal conflict between werewolves and vampires. As she read, her hands trembling, she found something that made her blood run cold.

        'When the moon bleeds red and the night grows teeth, a choice will be made that breaks the ancient cycle. A mortal's heart shall tip the balance, bringing either eternal darkness or salvation to both races.'

        "Interesting reading material," Leila's voice suddenly came from behind. Lucas's sister moved like a ghost, her silver eyes holding centuries of wisdom. "I've been waiting for you to find this."

        Emily closed the book carefully. "Is this... about me?"

        Leila's expression remained enigmatic. "The prophecy speaks of a mortal who stands between our worlds. But prophecies, dear Emily, are like rivers - they show the destination, but the path taken is always your choice."

        "What happens if I choose wrong?" Emily's voice wavered.

        "There is no wrong choice, only consequences," Leila replied, her voice gentle but firm. "But I must warn you - the blood moon approaches, and with it, a moment of truth that will change everything."

        Before Emily could ask more questions, a commotion erupted from the castle grounds. They rushed to the window to see Lucas and Draco facing each other in the courtyard, their postures tense with barely contained violence.

        "You've crossed the line, Draco," Lucas's voice carried up to them, filled with fury. "You dare to mark our territory?"

        Draco's laugh was cold and mocking. "Territory? This stopped being about territory the moment she arrived. Or are you afraid she's already choosing me?"

        Emily watched in horror as Lucas's form began to shift, his muscles rippling beneath his clothes. The morning sun caught his golden eyes, now burning with primal rage. Draco's own transformation was more subtle - his pale skin taking on an otherworldly sheen, his movements becoming impossibly fluid.

        "Stop!" Emily's voice rang out across the courtyard. Both men froze, their attention snapping to her window. "This has to end!"

        She turned to rush downstairs, but Leila caught her arm. "Be careful, Emily. The blood moon is three days away. Under its light, both races lose control of their darker natures. And you..." she paused meaningfully, "you will be at your most vulnerable."

        When Emily reached the courtyard, the tension was thick enough to choke on. Lucas immediately moved to her side, his protective instinct evident in every motion. But it was Draco who spoke first.

        "My apologies for the disturbance, dear Emily," his voice was silk over steel. "But perhaps it's time you understood the full scope of what you're involved in." He pulled an ancient medallion from his coat. "This belongs to your grandmother. She wasn't just any woman - she was a guardian, keeper of the balance between our races."

        Emily's world tilted. "My grandmother? But she died when I was young..."

        "She was murdered," Lucas cut in, his voice heavy with old pain. "By those who wanted to destroy the peace between our kinds. And now, as her descendant, you inherit her role - and her enemies."

        The revelation hit Emily like a physical blow. Suddenly, everything made more sense - the mysterious circumstances that led her to the castle, both men's intense interest in her, the prophecy. She wasn't just caught between two supernatural beings; she was part of an ancient legacy.

        "The blood moon comes," Draco said softly, his eyes locked on Emily. "And with it, powers long dormant will awaken. You'll need to choose not just between us, Emily, but between two paths for both our races."

        As if in response to his words, clouds gathered overhead, casting strange shadows across the courtyard. Emily felt something stir within her, something old and powerful, like a sleeping giant finally beginning to wake.

        Lucas moved closer, his warmth a stark contrast to the chill air. "Whatever you choose, Emily, know that my protection isn't just about fate or duty anymore. It's about-"

        But before he could finish, a piercing scream cut through the air. All three turned to see Leila collapsed at the castle entrance, her silver eyes wide with terror as she pointed at the sky.

        "It's coming," she gasped. "The blood moon... it's coming early. And with it, they're returning - the ones who killed your grandmother. They're coming for Emily."

        In that moment, as Emily looked between Lucas and Draco, she realized that her choice might not be about love at all - it might be about survival.

The Lord Corporation was a top-tier player in the domestic business world, securing its status as one of the leading conglomerates in the bustling metropolis of Eldon. Its Aethelwynn branch was particularly renowned, drawing in young professionals eager to make their mark in the ancient towers of the corporate giant. Securing a job at Lord Corporation was the kind of accomplishment that one could brag about among peers.
However, the atmosphere buzzed with speculation as news spread of the arrival of a new manager from Quinn. Whispers raced through the office halls: who was this new figure, and what did her arrival mean for the team? To everyone's surprise, when the manager stepped in, she was not only a woman but also strikingly beautiful, commanding attention the moment she entered the room.
Suddenly, the male employees began to act like they were jolted with electricity, vying to catch her eye and dreaming of a possible future where they might win the heart of this wealthy lady. Their fantasies shifted from achieving corporate success to imagining themselves at the pinnacle of life—a life filled with charm and prestige.
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“Oh, please, that new lady from Quinn is the one putting up with all your nonsense,” he quipped, rolling his stiff neck as he lamented the inevitability of changes in the office hierarchy.
In another corner, a rotund and somewhat slovenly gentleman sat uncomfortably on a creaking chair, clearly bearing the weight of his own expectations: “I've heard the changes at Aethelwynn will be significant. We might be facing some reshuffling soon.”
“Whatever, I've got more important things to think about than office politics,” Baldric scoffed, brushing it off. “It's seven o'clock. Let's wrap this up and go grab a bite.”
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“Did you roll for that new gacha game last night? I went all in and still didn't score!” she lamented, tossing her blonde hair back in frustration. As an anime enthusiast, she was known for not holding back her nerdy side.
"I didn't even bother," he replied, "I still can't believe how busty Layla looks in that new outfit of hers."
Lady Margaret smirked mischievously, “So, how do you feel about our new boss? I haven't even laid eyes on her yet.”
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"Wow, Baldric, who knew you were so smooth?" Lady Margaret teased, rolling her eyes. “Let’s see if your confidence holds up when you actually meet her.”
Just then, the elevator door chimed open, and as Baldric cracked a joke, he was taken aback. Standing inside the elevator was none other than the new manager—Lady Wren Quinn.
She exuded an icy elegance that made the air around her feel charged. Her striking features, coupled with an enticing hourglass figure, were sure to turn heads, with her smooth, delicate arms and elegantly long legs that seemed to defy gravity—all wrapped in a tailored, chic outfit.
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Lady Margaret quickly chimed in, “Yes, good morning!”
As they stood there, the tension thickened, making it painfully clear—be it walking away or engaging further, either choice presented a high-stakes gamble they weren’t prepared for, each weighing the consequences of their impending fate in this unforgiving corporate jungle.

As the elevator doors slowly closed, the two men, Eldon and Marlowe, finally let out the breath they had been holding.
"Is this really him, Lord Quinn?" Lady Margaret asked, her voice tinged with amazement, nearly breathless. She instinctively reached out, her hand accidentally hitting the elevator button.
"That must be him," Eldon said with a wry smile, "I'd recognize those legs from a mile away."
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"Don’t you dare!" Lady Margaret exclaimed, watching in disbelief as Eldon boldly stepped into the elevator. “You’re actually going in? What if he…”
Eldon shrugged off her concern. “I forgot I had some documents to finish up. I’ll need to work through the night. You should head back, Marlowe.” He said that with the same generous smile he wore when he faced danger.
"Seriously, Eldon? Didn’t we agree to stand by each other? You’re just leaving me to fend for myself?" Lady Margaret shot back, her voice dripping with sarcasm as the doors slid shut once more, plunging the narrow cabin into an uncomfortable silence. The atmosphere was heavy, especially with a towering bodyguard stationed in a corner like a wall.
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“Do I even have to say my name?” came a frosty voice from behind them, sending a chill through the air. Eldon felt the weight of Lord Quinn's disapproval without needing to see his face.
Just then, the silence intensified until the elevator finally reached the underground parking lot.
As the doors opened, they were greeted by an impressive lineup of vehicles: Aunt Rowena’s luxury sedan, flanked by a black Range Rover on one side and a striking two-tone Maybach on the other.
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Once seated inside, Lady Margaret couldn’t resist glancing at her phone one last time, whispering a cool remark at Eldon that felt as sharp as frostbite. Suddenly, the car doors closed, and their procession vanished from sight.
Eldon exhaled heavily as he exited the elevator, feeling its slow descent had somehow cursed him today.
He didn’t expect such bad luck, especially since today had been going so smoothly before. In a sense of resignation, he withdrew a gleaming key fob for his Knight 530 from his pants pocket, triggering the lights on the black sedan parked nearby.
AésN heF clim!btekdd iwnj, nLjaXd!yV M.aYrdgbacretH UpBoépfpedn uupQ frDosmÉ tlhed pBaGsÉskenHgZer^ Éseabt AaAs Lif Cfroma nroFwher)e, griznJninTgx BwVidóeslKyÉ.R J“_Makrlqo$we! FI btThCoDuLgBht yóoPuF CdOidn’yt. Kexihsét óa_nyyÉm!orrge!W pTharnkM NgZoOodnJe!ss!$”
Eldon shot her a look that was more teasing than annoyed. "Really? Right after I nearly got myself killed, you decide to show up? For a second, I thought you were going to leave me hanging!”
"Listen, I was just pretending to give up,” Lady Margaret hurriedly defended herself. “I raced down the stairs to save you! I would've jumped in with my blades drawn!”
Eldon couldn’t suppress a chuckle as he leaned over to the side. “Chubby, are you going to help me now with Lord Quinn breathing down our necks? Or are we just going to keep playing this game?”
S*udwdtenl(y,J utheir hcsarv cjoÉlBtQedl Tslizghétly.n A“bHéeFy, wnatNch it!X ITbhweLre^’Fs a car NaheQadN!”y éL!ad^y SMairpgNavrkeét shcowutedt.r
Eldon turned just in time to see a figure he recognized from earlier—that heavy-set man she had mistaken for a woman. The sight made him realize the irony; the creepiness had now transformed into absurdity.
His cheeks flushed a mix of embarrassment and humor at the same time. “You’ve got to be kidding me. This is how my reputation gets ruined.”
As the Maybach roared away from the underground garage and onto the streets, Lady Margaret turned towards him, concern etched across her features. “Are you okay, Marlowe? Did Lord Quinn give you any trouble?”
ElGdo,nó smhruXggxekdC snonAcZhaliajndtrl$yé., !“J$uszth thNe 'usTuFal cwrCeNep(s Dtrmying to (icnHtivmiTda*teb ymCe. No biggiHe.”B
“Right. Let’s just hope it stays that way,” she replied, staring ahead with a determined look as they were swept into the pulsing heart of the city.

“Hey Eldon, have you heard? I think Uncle Alaric is getting reassigned to that remote backwater,” Lady Margaret said with a deep frown. “I feel responsible for what happened to you, Brother Marlowe. As a gesture of goodwill, I’ll send you my five-pound stash of rare candies when I get home tonight.”
“You really don’t have to, sis,” Eldon replied, though a small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.
“Come on, I can't bear the thought of you ending up in that wasteland. At least if Alina goes there, she’ll still be mentally alright,” Lady Margaret sighed.
“EnGoPurgXhM,I XyfoNu NtUwoZ,.”Y )icntweQrjecBted& their bUnclRe. “Yonu dogn'tr awanit) yto 'temcpt fatAed bvyk TjoNkiyngK aHbcouht. ^yyoUurÉ rneaóssimgTnqmóenytÉ.R It ts_outnQds NlTiDkeb Ia (bad XmnoveK aillv aWrounXd.”(
Though he initially entertained the idea of heading to the Last Refuge Tavern for a few rounds of gaming, Eldon's heart wasn't in it anymore.
The bustling Village Square of Dragon's Keep came alive in the evening. Although it wasn't the priciest spot in town, it still set them back eight dollars per meal.
“Alright then, Brother Marlowe, I’m heading home. Dinner's on me tonight!” Lady Margaret declared as she waved goodbye.
“Sou*nds. gDoo!d tjo me,”Z CEldPon rte&pllZied.! “LBbugt )if, myoju AdHoW ógfet 'shippéezdm BofkfP, It'Lll foJlbloOw youM wiatnhzout a secyoDnVd thougwht'!”
“I’m serious!” Lady Margaret insisted, thumping her fist over her heart with a whimsical yet earnest look in her eyes, as if she considered it a weight-loss plan, despite the gluttony of their recent feast.
“Don’t kid yourself; Dad’s pulled too many strings to get you into this mess. If you mess things up, you’ll end up game for a trim, literally!” Uncle remarked as he departed to the nearby elevator.
With a wistful glance, Lady Margaret slipped into the adjacent elevator. The two siblings shared a tight-knit bond rooted in their days spent playing basketball at the local courts, comrades forged in shared ideals.
Onrce Wigndside tPheixrx moddeVsAtO NhbomQe, ElidbocnF tosDse)d HhWis )cGarC (keysU ont!og tmheU shWoe qrack, tbLy t_hleg keqnXtUrasncev.i d“I’km bbaQcSk!”
In the living room, Uncle Hugh sat on the couch engrossed in a financial news broadcast. In the kitchen, Lady Lydia, their mother, was busy preparing dinner.
“Thomas More! Go wash your hands; it’s time to eat. I’ve got good news for us!” Lady Lydia called out cheerfully.
“Mom, I might have good news too! I might’ve gotten the attention of Quinn, the new manager at the firm,” Eldon interjected with a grin.
“Re^ablliy?h S_oC ,twhWeZ neXwk CleandMers!h)ippg ZaétJ .A(ethelwVyInn* fSwu(nny uhRasG vmade (aIn 'ibmpactY,I NhjuhP?”J xUnBcklKe TH*ughM idnrqPuire&d, eyebyrowsJ Rryawiss_edG.) J“.HLoqw’Ts CtNhaBt Mbeexn goZiLnSg?t”^
“It’s been a total circus. If not for this mirror trick, I’d have lost my sanity earlier this week.”
Lady Lydia shook her head, her phone in hand, as she glanced at a recent message. “Can we focus on something less chaotic? Mom’s been on the phone today about your romantic prospects. There’s a girl, 98 on the scales, finished college, 5'5 in height, and working at Cedric Enterprises. I even have her photo.”
Eldon's eyes lit up as he leaned in for a look. “Whoa, she looks cute! Sweet smile, and oh, those eyes! Unlike old Quinn, this seems promising!”
“I sknue*wó ryoAuD’adG plsiMkueY Yheórm,”A LIady GLqyZdiDaf Ochulck)leLdÉ. i“So, ID’Pvned sKchÉeduGl)end zdi&nan$evrB fwit$h ghDerm fork tonwigBht.”k
“You better take the chance! We’re all rooting for you to give us a grandchild,” she teased, a playful grin on her face.
“Don’t worry; I’ve got this in the bag!” Eldon beamed, confidence swelling.
“Dream on! Show me a girl, and maybe I’ll believe it,” Uncle Hugh ribbed with laughter.
OtnMcke thÉe *m!eal wfas seNr'vKed, ythdeZ fgamiplMy. senttlAed hin fTowr! the tfneastQ. HAs vthenyZ awte thge_ir Lf_rkuit ovn the cóoduch,É Yth)e evenijnzg ncews mdisVpnlBaGyed a_n un^eéxCpedcjtked icmaXgkeb:$ VG*eknXt_lDewofmpaZn WLre)nV DhTad juqst aSp,póe&areBd oan sdcIreenG,! Lcaplturxing LtheXir( fMuRll Dauttde^ntxio,nk ,arndH iÉgnLitiinlgO th.eX r*oom) witAh Tcjonverjsa,t.ibonm.M

Today, the Dragon's Eye Group's manager, Sunny Quinn, made an unexpected appearance in Dragon's Eye City, leaving many elders in shock. To their surprise, she was none other than the young and graceful Lady Wren, who seemed unfazed by the pressure of her new position.
"You've taken on such a heavy responsibility at such a young age, Lady Wren. That must be stressful," one elder remarked, a hint of concern lacing their words.
The glimmer of the TV screen caught the attention of the viewers as Lady Wren responded, her demeanor chilly yet composed, reminiscent of someone stepping into a grand elevator.
"Mmm, *tMhisZ Iis yoIulr groupé'sÉ neQw JacquiMsitvioZn, huhw?ó QuDitie caZ ,ldookWerX, lltoÉo'kss likef Fa lady ouNt yobf óa zfQairyxtaBleC! IGfH ToCnl^ys ashe RcoOulhdQ KbeKcome kp(acrótd of th!e famKilry," ymuNsBeéd_ Thiom.as M^orNe,T Fmdajrvelixnigó aót JLPaldlyt lWrTenl's stri_kiHng beraJutry.(
A chuckle erupted from Mother Evangeline, who couldn't help but interject, "If that's the case, maybe Alaric will need to get me some new shoes to walk in," she said, shaking her head with an amused smirk. “With those icy looks, isn’t she just going to send any suitor running?”
Back home, the familiar routine of life unfolded as Mother Evangeline sipped on her goji berry tea, weaving playful jabs at her family's obsession with video games. "All idle talk, and look where that gets you, playing games all day," she remarked, her tone laced with a good-natured ribbing.
Brushing aside her mother's teasing, she slipped into her bedroom, ready to escape the banter, locking the door behind her as if sealing off the outside world. In her mind, she played out the future, contemplating a life of simple joys—games in the evenings, leisurely outings, and perhaps thoughts of marriage.
AfAter tóakking aK WcqalmiLng KsmhoWwerV,* M)othXer ^EfvaYngieljinge reflecytegdt oLnó whÉer( &dPa.y, swoWndKeriing! gicf it ,watsm tiDmXe tot drGeqaTlVlyyN swteGp oUut* Ja!nda memgbragc(e sWogmetvhicng ^nOezwc.L "MWiLlslr XIÉ freqally t)alk msyseltfJ into aljl o!fó thIisv?l"h suhNe po!nCdWedread,b he)r wtFho!ughTtvsp HdQrwiiftinNg iÉnto& ba resétleYss sLlubmmbeIrM.
In her dreams, she found herself in a bizarre yet vivid reverie where Lady Wren, portrayed as a confident heroine, called upon a bodyguard for help, only to find herself fighting back and collapsing into laughter, surrounded by appreciative cheers.
Abruptly, she awoke to an overwhelming urgency. She stumbled toward the bathroom, half-asleep, and lifted the lid of the toilet.
Yet, to her bewilderment, the expected sound of relief was replaced by an unexpected sensation—a sudden warmth between her legs. Confusion gripped her as she darted her eyes around the bathroom, questioning where she was.
"And wyhZere Wons ebarthW i&sB my& rfamiSlqixar jcaqr*ew zrdouYti$nVeó?."é shjeG Ng_aNsnpeUdV.'
The realization struck her hard, and her heart raced. "Oh no, no, this can't be real!" she uttered, stunned at the reflection staring back at her. The face she saw was one she recognized but never anticipated inhabiting—Lady Wren of the Dragon's Eye Group, in all her elegance.
"Sweet heavens!" she exclaimed, poking at her now soft and youthful face, touching her flawless skin as if it were some kind of delicate bloom. The changes were surreal—she felt light, vibrant, yet completely lost.
After a moment thick with disbelief, she noted the delicate pink of her nightgown, the girlhood accents of her surroundings, laden with innocence, making her want to laugh and cry in equal measure. "I've really become Lady Wren!"
SntquFnnepdé Aint_o Qsilenpce, sRheq tmo'ozk aV deeóp bpreHaAth. Su!rpeélyb,ó ^tthtiLs muDstF be a dóreakmn frTomF wGhQiZch s)h)e *coCuld Ja&wakeInm.K
But first, a shower—was she to wash up in this sweet pink attire or simply undress entirely? "What’s next? Closing my eyes while I clean up? Oh, my!" she sighed, tightening her robe around her waist.
After a decent while wrapped in a plush bathrobe, Mother Evangeline flicked on the lights, eyes wide at the sight before her. The bedroom was draped in delightful pastels, filled with dolls, capturing a whimsical girlhood she had seldom seen.
What awaited her was not just a new identity but a chance to navigate a world she had never fathomed, filled with dreams that now needed to take flight.

In the early morning light, the Sleeping Chamber appeared surprisingly familiar to Lady Wren. It reminded her so much of her Aunt's room, with the overstuffed furniture and delicate decor. As she glanced around, confirming its similarities, her mind wandered to her own Aunt, the feeling of belonging washing over her.
Meanwhile, in the living room, Eldon felt a pang of uncertainty. Some peculiar force had transported him into the body of an elderly gentleman he had barely recognized. How had such a bizarre thing happened? He was supposed to be Eldon, a capable young man, not this frail old man lost in another's memories.
As panic surged, Lady Wren tried to gather herself, chiding her racing thoughts. Yet, nature's call reminded her of its urgency; she couldn’t hold back any longer. Her face flushed with embarrassment as she chose to resolve the matter discreetly.
EgmeprtgiGn.g( dfCrFom tAhe lavatory,L Mshe* !praupseKd, gtaz!ing xiYnftoU zYoung MaasteWrb Elstank’rs lCÉh(amber.c P&osytwers ,of aknrikme éfl.iucikIedt aXcrosBs Sh.er _mind—*D,eatgh N'ote,y &NaIrutxoq,J uaQnd ÉoZthXerk ti^tfl.esu ttWhat sieepmeXd fst(ra'nglelhyj Ko_ulth oPfF CpularcFe. ClÉoJt'hLes_ bwDerHe lswtreCwnt care,lesWsVljyh o$nr wa TneaPrbcy c&haiDrS,h Lan^d theó smMetllW OoyfK stale sUmokWeO lifngMer'e(d zinq _txhNeY air, TsmuPftfugswiMng, zthe Msgp'aRcYeW VarqoFutnzd xhTer$.H
Her heart raced as she imagined the elderly man, Edmund Frye, now inhabiting her youthful form. With a swell of desperation, she muttered to herself, "I have to find my way back to myself.”
Dressing hastily, Lady Wren stepped out of the Sleeping Chamber, spotting Leroy in the kitchen, bustling about, his cheerful demeanor contrasting with her chaotic feelings.
“Hey, Wren! You’re up early! Got a date tonight or something?” Leroy’s light-hearted question cut through her thoughts like a knife. He was holding a spatula, glancing back at her with a bright smile.
SqnZapó Vbfacckl jtoh realit.y,t BWren staSredd! blanklyI f$or Oad éméoómUe!ntB.F “aUZh, Iz’jm off Mtoé Uwiosrkj.P”! LShheF ma)nUagveBdQ Oto rIepLly, quiYckHlyu cRhMadnbgiing herh Mshoes$ and TgrQabbWiTnrg t_he car kLeyIs off Ctqhek r$a&csk.R
Leroy’s curious expression lingered as she dashed out, “Did you eat breakfast?”
“Not yet,” she shot back disinterestedly as she exited her family home and made her way to her car, the cool metal key cool against her palm.
She squealed out of the parking lot and headed to her workplace, thoughts swirling in a dizzying mix. Just a few blocks away, Lady Isabel stood on her balcony, enjoying the morning air—it was her peculiar way of starting the day, or her method for “air-dieting,” as she'd jokingly called it.
AnsV shteN caiught sixghtB ofK the ftall fQiLggure oMf IhYerf IfSrienSdz, DLady Wrenj, ddriv(iUngi hbyC,x Israbel's eLy,esm w$irdene^d!. I“fWWaitt&, SiNs NtÉhant 'Wren*? AnFdU is utrh.at' DMJarlBoRwe &sétaBndMingS fbny_ 'theK Ocurbm? Oh) nHo',& Pno!t tnoCdUaÉyH…”W YsheT pmurmóur$ed, Odrea'dp éseVtJt&l^injg *intAo bher bonesa. WQas Fhe upsetH?X
The shimmering mansion, known as the first residence of the affluent, stood like a beacon in the distance. Located in the wealthy district of Dragonvale, this stately estate boasted exquisite architecture, rivaling others worth well into the millions.
In the meantime, Lady Isabel was staring at her reflection and muttering under her breath. “Lord Quinn is seven feet tall, and I don’t even hit him at half that height. He’s practically a model among models.”
With her tailored blazer framing her figure and the chic pencil skirt hugging her curves, she could sense the potential of a striking appearance. The newly sheer stockings added just the right flair—she felt fabulous. “If only I had pursued my dreams of the stage, maybe I wouldn’t feel so... overlooked,” she mused to herself, admiring her own reflection.
JLu.st theTn,V herT phvonpe kbwuwz.zeGdt jwitth ani ^innCcoZminGg, ccalwl,C bcreakiJnIgS Aher seólf-adYmijr,aKtiQon.* FrpowSniónpga, sphe Awa'lGked bouétS ^ipntoy ythe grandn &hapllSway*,q gfUolOlo*wing the UswoluUngd down ^tio (tThe ÉcomQmaonp rMegceiviLngw arjeCa.*
As she answered the call, her voice was cool but professional, “Hello?”
“Lady Isabel, this is Guard Kane from the front desk. There’s a gentleman claiming to be a friend of yours—he’s quite insistent on seeing you.”
Her heart skipped a beat. Was it one of the comments she made in jumpers about her secret admirer? This could be Lord Quinn’s doing, she thought anxiously.
“GLett XhCim! iTn, pzleRaqsmeg,”' shue &iFnsgtrluwcNtkeXd,é mw&ond!erinnrgR ju!s_tV .wVho daMrPedf kto rsOe^ekN Rhert oJut$ rso bocldslKy.g