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.

much last night." Nick scolded her gently as he handed her a

"Here, drink this."

him prop her up and downed the

you. Eat that first,

man before her, so gentle and attentive. He

if you'd treated me like this from the beginning, do you think we would've

answer. No one could predict how

out.

would become the most important person in his life, how

I won't hurt you again. Give me one more chance,

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

That night, Irene and Aurora's

let's meet up again

Irene. Call me

I'm leaving." Nick urged

loving the book, nel5s.com is where the adventure continues. Join us for the complete experience-all for free. The next chapter is eagerly waiting for you! After seeing Nick and Irene off, Aurora prepared to leave as well. She

granddaughter. If only I

good man, and Julian treated Aurora well too. If both could become his grandsons-in-law, Oswaldo would

even though I'm not in Clothville, I can still visit you often when I have

man very happy,"

"Of course, Grandpa."

were Aurora's family members, Asher felt a sense of closeness too.

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

He was always attentive and noticed

a little

at my house. Why would

what happened

hurt you. Besides, Hayden left for New York yesterday. You won't see him, so it won't be

"That's good."

it like going back to your own home. Ignore the people you dislike. We're only staying for

"Alright."