Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

The men were always the earliest risers. Irene, however, was used to sleeping in- thunderstorms or pouring rain wouldn't wake her.

Aurora hadn't slept long. When she woke, Julian wasn't beside her. Her head throbbed, and her thirst was unbearable. Reluctantly, she got out of bed to freshen up.

By the time she came downstairs, Denis and Robert had already left. Nick, waiting for Irene, stayed behind and was idly watching the news.

Julian and Asher noticed her pale face.

"You still don't feel well? You should rest more," Julian said.

"No, I'm awake now. Can't sleep anymore. Did you all already have breakfast?"

"Yes," Asher replied. "I got up early and made breakfast for everyone. I made porridge for you too. You drank too much last night-your stomach must be upset. Don't drink so much next time."

"I know." Aurora was already accustomed to Julian's constant concern and reminders. Asher handed her a bowl of porridge. "Eat more. You've gotten thinner, haven't you?" "I've been busy these past few days. Lost two pounds. You can even tell that?"

"I'd notice if you lost a single strand of hair," Asher said, exaggerating but sincere in his care for her.

Aurora laughed. "I know you're the best, Ashy. Tonight, we're going back to the Alvarez family. I've already told my dad and grandpa. You can wait for me at the Montgomery family. I'll come by tomorrow."

Aurora understood Asher's situation. Like her former self, he lacked familial love. This time, she had prepared in advance, letting her family know she was bringing a friend home for the holidays.

The Montgomery family had grown quieter after Genevieve and Ivy left. Asher had even met Magnus before, so he wasn't entirely an outsider.

Initially, Asher hesitated, feeling it might not be appropriate. But Aurora had already considered him her closest friend. Family belonged together, she told him.

Reluctantly, Asher agreed. At least he wouldn't have to spend the holiday alone.

Irene didn't wake until nearly noon. Nick, knowing her habits, had been waiting patiently.

"Do you feel unwell anywhere?" he asked.

"Mm... my head hurts." Irene rubbed her temples, feeling as though her skull might explode.

You know you can't drink, yet you drank so much last night." Nick scolded her gently as he handed her a

"Here, drink this."

downed the glass in

saved some porridge for you. Eat that first, and

man before her, so gentle and attentive. He was

like this from the beginning, do you think we would've ever

didn't know how to answer. No one could predict

out.

he had known back then that Irene would become the most important person in his life, how could he have ever

you, I'll treat you well from now on. I won't

heart wavered. She knew how much he cared for her now. But could she truly forget everything

said goodbye. That night, Irene and Aurora's

Bunny, let's meet up again sometime," Irene

Irene. Call

Nick urged her

you! After seeing Nick and Irene off, Aurora prepared to leave as well. She dropped Asher off at the

such a pity I only have one granddaughter. If only I had two," Oswaldo said with a

man, and Julian treated Aurora well too. If

Clothville, I can still visit you often when I have

old man very happy," Oswaldo said, holding Asher's

"Of course, Grandpa."

because these were Aurora's family members, Asher felt a sense of closeness

anxious. Though she had been to the Alvarez family before, her current status was

attentive and noticed her unease, even while

I'm just a little

at my house. Why would you

know what

of that dreadful scene. "Don't worry. This time, no one will hurt you. Besides, Hayden left for New York yesterday. You won't see him, so it

"That's good."

going back to your own home. Ignore the people you dislike. We're only staying for a day. Tomorrow,

"Alright."