Let Me Go, Sugar Daddy Free Preview

Lillian Lewis was pressed up against the dressing room door as the man gripped her neck from behind, turning her head to kiss her hard. Her lips parted, and she was breathing in short, shallow gasps.

"Do you love it?" he sneered, a playful smirk on his face.

Outside, footsteps rushed by. Her phone vibrated at her feet, but he kicked it further away.

"Focus." He penetrated her fiercely.

Lillian tilted her head up, gazing through the window at the fireworks bursting outside, momentarily distracted.

He clicked his tongue, mocking, "Still so useless."

She picked up her clothes from the floor and quickly slipped back into the main hall through the storage hallway.

The manager looked annoyed at her for showing up late.

"This is Miss Daisy's birthday party. I pulled some strings to get you this job—one night here pays more than a month out there. Hurry up."

Forcing a small smile, Lillian thanked him, ignoring the soreness in her legs and back.

The line of maids walked in, but Lillian stood out the most. The second she entered the VIP room, everyone's attention snapped to her. She was a natural beauty—gorgeous, with an inexplicably seductive charm paired with an innocent face. Men practically wanted to pin her down on the coffee table right then.

The whispers started.

Lillian bent down to pour the wine, her tiny maid's skirt riding up to reveal long legs. If she moved any higher, she'd be exposed, making everyone wonder if she was wearing anything underneath.

The men couldn't help but stare.

"What a bitch." A few women nearby laughed. "Lillian, did your sugar daddy stop paying you?"

The other waitresses shot her curious glances.

Lillian kept her gaze steady and looked at the man seated in the center of the room—Conrad Brown, City N's richest man. Tonight's birthday girl, Daisy White sat smugly beside him.

"Yeah, I was not getting paid enough these days. I think he's going bankrupt soon," Lillian replied with a faint smile, then stood up and walked out.

But as she left, she had practically bewitched every man in the room.

Daisy turned to look at Conrad and, seeing that he wasn't watching Lillian, felt satisfied. Of course, someone like Conrad wouldn't go for a cheap girl like that.

"Did you all know her?"

"Of course, back when her dad, Alvin Lewis, was around, the Lewis family was at the top. Now, any guy with money can have her."

A wine glass crashed to the floor, startling Daisy and the others. Conrad lit a cigarette and got up to leave.

Daisy called after him, "Conrad?"

"Too noisy."

But it was clear to everyone that he was mad. The whole room fell silent.

Lillian, after delivering the dessert, dragged herself to the employee lounge, barely able to stay upright, only to see him sitting there, clearly waiting to settle things with her.

Conrad was the kind of man with power, influence, and good looks—a natural challenge. But after sleeping with him for three years, tonight he didn't look appealing to her at all. Maybe she'd finally had enough?

He sat in the shadows, legs crossed, watching her with cold eyes. He had the remote in his hand, and cranked it up to the highest setting.

Lillian's body jerked, almost dropping to her knees. This guy was such a pain. He'd already slept with her in the changing room, and now he was using that damn vibrator to torture her again.

"Out of money? Who gave you the nerve to wear that dress for everyone to see?"

"No one. I just felt like showing it off." Lillian forced down the heat rising in her body.

She'd always been sweet and sensible, but suddenly she was talking back. Conrad instinctively frowned, then shut off the button.

"Here's sixty million and that beachfront villa you like. I'll have Ford transfer it to your name. I'm busy, so stop with the attitude." This was him backing down; his tone had softened.

From the satisfied look on his face, he was clearly pleased with how disheveled she looked right now.

Everyone knew Lillian loved money. Give her enough, and she'd be the most obedient caged bird. And sure enough, when her pretty face lit up at the sight of all that, there was a flicker of genuine excitement.

"So this is the final price to buy out my three years?" she asked.

Conrad's gaze darkened. "Lillian, you've gone too far today." He hated women who didn't follow the rules.

She walked over and plopped herself right onto his lap. Before she'd entered the VIP room, he'd seen her in this maid outfit, and couldn't even hold back in the dressing room. She knew exactly what he liked. She traced a finger along his throat, her touch teasing until his gaze turned hungry.

Finally, she raised her eyes, her voice soft and low. "Can't I?"

In bed, she could play up this attitude ten times over, and he'd allow it. She knew exactly how far to go without crossing the line—just enough to keep things interesting.

"What are you up to now?" His breathing grew heavier.

They knew each other too well.

Out of nowhere, she bit down on his throat, her voice calm. "I want out."

His hand froze.

"Think it over," he said, but his hands kept roaming, waiting for her to beg him.

Lillian's body shivered, but her tone stayed firm. "I've thought it over. I'm still young. I don't have time to waste."

With a sharp motion, he let her go. "You've got three days to decide."

She dropped to the floor, her long hair falling over one shoulder, her slender waist looking like it could snap if he squeezed too hard.

"No need. I'm done. Don't want to sleep with you anymore."

The air turned tense. He slammed the door on his way out.

Lillian checked her phone, and the last notification was from right before she'd entered the VIP room.

[Breaking News! The CEO of the Brown Family Group to Marry Heiress of the White Family Group—A Billion-Dollar Wedding!]

So Conrad was getting married. She'd spent three years with him, and he still wanted her to be the third wheel in his marriage?

She opened her contacts and blocked him everywhere she could, only stopping when her stomach settled.

After changing, she cashed out her pay for the day, and then headed to the subway. But just as she reached the corner, she spotted a familiar car.

As usual, Ford gave her that look, delivering his standard line.

"Miss Lillian, Mr. Conrad is waiting for you inside."

Lillian almost laughed. The man who'd never waited for anyone—who'd punish her double in the bed if she was even a minute late—was actually waiting for her to get off work?

She didn't want to get in.

Ford noticed.

"Miss Lillian, going in on your own is your best option." In other words, if they had to drag her in, it would get ugly.

With a sigh, she opened the door, immediately spotting Conrad in the backseat, radiating tension.

The second she got in, he pushed her against the leather seat.

"Blocked me? Lillian, have you grown a spine recently? Hm?"

Lillian hadn't expected Conrad to be even angrier than she'd thought. She held onto a button on his jacket, looking at him with a lazy smile. "It's perfectly normal for a sugar baby to dump her sugar daddy. Mr. Conrad, just think of it as getting tired of a clueless woman. Consider what you promised me earlier as breakup money, and let's part ways on good terms."

She said it with a grin, not caring how shameless her request sounded.

Suddenly, he grabbed her jaw and yanked her closer, his voice chilling. "Lillian, who do you think decides how this game starts or ends? It's not you."

She swallowed hard. In City N, crossing Conrad was a social suicide.

With just a flick of his finger, he could make sure she'd never get by. He'd taken care of her for three years, whether it was a whim or something more. He wasn't tired of her yet, and now she dared to walk away?

He'd definitely spoiled her too much, enough for her to forget her place.

"Conrad, come here," she said, watching him with an unreadable expression.

He looked at her with a smirk, like he'd expected this. "What? Had enough? Regretting the act?"

"Go to hell."

Lillian was his. Conrad's woman.

He'd kept her around for three years, watched her go from a timid little thing to someone bold enough to curse him out while lying beneath him.

Conrad let out a cold laugh, gripping her chin and staring at the anger and defiance in her eyes.

"If I remember right, you were the one who begged me to take you back then."

Hearing him bring up the past, Lillian's eyes flickered, but she quickly spoke in that soft, dismissive tone of hers.

"Yeah, that was back then."

"Seems like I've been way too easy on you lately. So easy, you don't know your place." Conrad's face darkened. "Get out."

His car sped off, leaving her standing there under the harsh red glow of the taillights. The night wind sent chills through her, but she stood frozen for a while before shaking herself off.

She started walking, not even expecting to find a cab in a place like this. Her phone battery had died too, and she guessed it would be dawn by the time she reached the city.

Suddenly, headlights lit up in front of her, making her squint against the glare.

His irritated voice cut through the darkness. "You're slower than a turtle. Get in before I have to drag you in myself."

She wanted to have the backbone to refuse, but before she could say anything, he'd already slammed his car door and was striding toward her. He grabbed her and shoved her into the back seat.

The convoy headed straight to the Hillside Villa—his territory. From here, the view of City N was unmatched. She'd seen it from this villa for three years, but now, even after they'd torn into each other, Conrad still dragged her back.

He was furious. As soon as they got inside, he tossed her onto the bed, ripped off his tie, and loomed over her. She barely had a chance to protest. Her body had been trained to respond to him, and just one move from him had her pulling close, betraying her without shame.

Tonight, his touch was rough, and seeing her reaction, he gave a cold smile. "With you acting like this, you think you're going to leave me?"

She'd been the one to come to him first, so who did she think she was, deciding to walk away whenever she wanted? It was ridiculous. Who did she think he was?

Lillian wanted to curse him, but he silenced her with her own clothes stuffed into her mouth.

More than an hour later, Lillian lay weakly on the bed, listening to the sound of the shower. Once she managed to gather a bit of strength, she grabbed her scattered clothes and pulled them on quickly.

By the time she rushed downstairs, Conrad hadn't even noticed.

Her legs were shaky, and she probably had a fever. She stumbled as she opened the door, only to be caught off guard by the woman standing there.

It was a familiar face—someone who looked about eighty or ninety percent like her.

For a moment, Lillian felt dazed.

The woman, Evelyn, looked just as surprised, staring at her for a second before snapping out of it with a wary look. "I'm Evelyn. I came to return the coat Mr. Conrad left at my place." She clutched the bag tightly, as if afraid Lillian might grab it, and added pointedly, "He told me to bring it to him personally."

Lillian looked at her cheap outfit and the diamond necklace that seemed entirely out of place, then gave a cold laugh. So, he'd already found a new substitute to replace her. It seemed like Conrad didn't care about her as a person—he just liked the face. As long as a woman had that face, he'd take her.

Seeing Lillian stay quiet, Evelyn stepped inside, her eyes roaming around the room's decor, barely blinking. Her gaze fell on the shoe rack, where two pairs of slippers sat—one black, one pink. She immediately reached for the pink pair.

Without thinking, Lillian said, "Those are mine."

Conrad had just finished his shower and was coming downstairs when he overheard her. With a cold and mocking tone, he said, "Nothing here is yours. Even the lingerie you're wearing—I bought that too."

That was Conrad. When he wanted to spoil you, he'd reach for the stars for you. Cross him, though, and he'd leave you with nothing.

Lillian met Evelyn's slightly smug look and kept her expression calm, but she felt a heaviness in her chest. With a soft laugh, she stepped back into the room, then, right in front of Conrad, unhooked her bra and pulled it out from under her clothes.

Conrad's eyes narrowed as the bra, warm from her body, landed right in his face.

Then Lillian lifted her skirt, hooking her fingers around her underwear. Seeing his furious expression, she smirked and let the thin fabric fall onto his chest.

"There. I returned it. This dress, however, I bought myself. Has nothing to do with you, Conrad." With that, she walked past Evelyn, her expression flat.

"Mr. Conrad… did I upset you two?" Evelyn finally spoke up after a long silence, nervously glancing at him.

Her timid look was almost identical to how Lillian had looked in the past.

Only the wealthy could afford to live at the hillside villa, so there was no way she'd find a cab out here.

Just then, a car pulled up beside her, and when she turned her head, she saw Gordon Smith leaning out the window, flashing the headlights. "Need a ride home, beautiful lady?"

Lillian brushed her hair back and walked over without hesitation.

Even in the simplest clothes, she had a way of making it look striking. Her breasts were noticeable without a bra, and Gordon quickly looked away, tossing her a jacket.

The warmth in the car wrapped around her, driving away the chill from the wind, and she started to feel alive again.

"Thanks," she murmured.

"So, did you get on Conrad's nerves again?" Gordon asked, knowing there had to be a reason she was kicked out so late at night.

"Who, me? I wouldn't dare." She sounded as nonchalant as ever, gazing out the window, lost in thought.

Gordon was one of the few people in their circle who knew about her relationship with Conrad, so there was no need to pretend with him.

"Where to?" he asked.

"Elton Apartments," she replied.

Gordon almost hit the brakes. "What, did Conrad go bankrupt? He's got you living in a place like that?"

She said with a smirk. "Just moved in."

Gordon chuckled. "If you're done with Conrad, consider me. At least I wouldn't ditch a girl to walk through the mountains alone in the middle of the night."

Lillian was a rare beauty; half the men in their circle had their eyes on her. Having a woman like her around was a status symbol. Besides, she was gentle, and considerate, and played her role perfectly—an ideal mistress.

She casually tossed his cigarette out the window. "Sorry, I don't do secondhand smoke. Or secondhand men."

Gordon whistled. "Looks like the little caged bird's planning to fly away."

That nickname—"caged bird"—was all anyone saw in her now. Gone was the once-proud Lewis family heiress; after her family went bankrupt, that's what she'd become.

Lillian laughed with an alluring charm. The cage had a new bird, and she was definitely flying free. Better to pack up and leave on her own terms than be shown the door.

She could be with a man for money, but not if he was married.

Once they arrived, Gordon waved her off to get back to his own nightlife.

The security guard at the entrance stared at her slim figure, eyes scanning her curves under the thin dress, wondering how much it might cost to spend a night with someone like her.

Lillian folded her arms and walked quickly past, dragging her exhausted body up to her apartment.

As soon as she opened the door, a slap came down hard, sending her head sideways.

"Why didn't you answer my calls?"

Lillian felt a searing pain on her cheek, and another slap was coming. Without thinking, she caught the woman's wrist.

"You dare fight back?" Grace shrieked.

"Don't forget, that old hag's still in the hospital. Without me and your uncle, there's no way you'll be able to keep her alive!"

Seeing Lillian back down, Grace gave a cold laugh and flopped onto the couch. The TV was still on, playing today's entertainment news.

On the screen, a handsome, aloof man faced reporters. "The woman I love," he said, "will be well-protected, free from any worry."

"No relationship updates to share. When there is, I'll let everyone know."

A familiar ache tightened in Lillian's chest, pricked by those words. She couldn't tell if it was her face that hurt or something else. Three years with Conrad, yet to him, she left no trace.

Of course—he'd only wanted her body. Who was talking about feelings?

Grace's sharp voice broke the silence. "Your uncle and I just found you a decent man. Now that you're nearly done with college, it's time to get married. He's a few years older, which means he'll know how to take care of you. Just give him a son, and you'll have an easy life."

After that, Grace picked up her bag and headed out. "I'm leaving now. This month, you can cover that old hag's hospital fees yourself."

Lillian's voice rose, "Didn't Uncle say he'd handle it?"

"With what? Isn't taking you in enough? Does your cousin not need food or clothes? Next month's her school dance, and plenty of wealthy bachelors will be there. That's it!"

Grace slammed the door behind her. Exhausted, Lillian slid down against the doorframe to sit on the floor.

Before she could even feel sad, her phone buzzed. A new job opening was posted in her work group chat.

"City N Auto Show needs two female models, ages 18 to 25, height 175 cm or above. Bring a bare-faced, 2-inch photo to the interview. Pay is daily."

Lillian wiped her face, clicked on private chat, and sent in her resume. She didn't have the luxury of sitting around thinking about Conrad—she needed to make money as soon as possible.

******

Five Days Later.

Conrad had just stepped off the plane when Ford asked, "Mr. Conrad, would you like to head back to the Hillside Villa for some rest?"

"Take me to Taylor Mansion."

Ford nodded knowingly. That was the place where Conrad had first taken Lillian three years ago. She'd spent most of her time there waiting for him, unless his driver picked her up to accompany him at the Hillside Villa.

Conrad was in a good mood; he'd just closed a huge deal.

After ignoring her for a few days, she should understand his stance by now. Going by her usual style, she'd probably already put on the outfit he liked, filled the bath, and whipped up a few snacks he enjoyed, ready to apologize in that soft voice of hers.

It'd been a month—her money had to be running low by now. She usually found ways to ask him for more around this time. Given how well-behaved she'd been for the past few years, he was willing to give her another chance.

Lillian never stayed mad for more than three days. Money always cheered her up.

The car pulled up, and Conrad stepped out, expecting her to come running over and wrap her arms around him. Instead, there was no sign of her.

Frowning, he slipped off his shoes and walked in. The kitchen was empty, and the dining table had no food waiting for him. He headed straight upstairs.

The bedroom was spotless, just as she'd left it. Her skincare products, clothes, and even the headbands she liked to wear were all still there. A breeze blew in from the balcony, lifting the curtains, but the room felt empty—there was no trace of Lillian anywhere.

"Where is she?" he finally demanded, unable to contain his irritation.

The housekeeper, looking flustered, stammered, "Miss Lillian hasn't been back for two weeks, and she's not answering her phone. I assumed she was with you…"

Conrad grabbed his phone and tossed it at the housekeeper. "Call her."

Did she really think she could make him bend?

Lillian, you truly don't know your place.

Meanwhile, Lillian had just picked up her paycheck. With that and selling the bracelet Conrad had given her at a pawn shop, she'd have just enough to cover her grandmother's medical bills this month.

When Ford's message came through, she was actually in a pretty good mood.

[Miss Lillian, where are you? Mr. Conrad is back and furious that you're not here.]

Furious? Well, he could go find another woman then, couldn't he? She blocked Ford and deleted the message.

Just then, her uncle John called.

"Lillian, we're having a family dinner at the hotel tonight. Dress nicely and come join us."

Lillian was exhausted, but her grandmother was under their care, so she had no choice but to agree. She went home, changed into a dress, and headed to the hotel.

As soon as she sat down, she knew this wasn't just a simple family dinner.

With a sickly sweet smile, Grace began introducing the nearly sixty-year-old man beside her. "Mr. Mark, this is my niece Lillian. Isn't she even more beautiful than in the photos? Just look at that face—she was born to bear sons. You marry her, and in no time, she'll give you exactly what you want."

The moment Mark laid eyes on Lillian, he wasn't thinking about sons. A stunning beauty like her, all he could think about was bringing her home as his wife.

"She's still…untouched?" he asked.

Grace gave a sly smile. "No need to worry. You can go upstairs to check."

She handed the room key to Mark.

The slimy gaze on Lillian made her skin crawl. Just as she turned away, she spotted a familiar couple taking a seat at the table next to hers—it was Conrad and Evelyn.

"Mr. Conrad, thank you for taking me out to dinner. I've never been to such a fancy place before," Evelyn said, voice filled with awe.

Conrad smiled politely, motioning for the waiter to hand her the menu. "Order whatever you like."

Lillian's face turned, and she clenched her teeth, looking away. Of all places to run into him.

"Mom, look, it's Conrad!" Her cousin, Fanny, whispered excitedly, while Grace, just as surprised, noticed him too.

Grace gave Fanny a look. "Switch seats with Lillian. Let Mr. Mark have a chance to talk to her."

Fanny didn't hesitate, immediately moving next to Grace, her eyes glued to Conrad.

As Mark slid over, the smell of cigarette smoke mixed with overpowering cologne filled the air.

"Lillian, right? I heard you're still in college? What's your major?" Mark asked with a greedy smile.

"Directing," Lillian replied quietly, looking down.

"Oh, what a shame! With your looks, you should be an actress. Just look at these hands…" His hairy, slightly sweaty hand clamped onto her wrist, giving it a squeeze. "So soft and delicate."

Lillian tried to pull her hand back, but his grip only tightened. He leaned closer, his stale breath making her gag. "Wonder if the rest of you is just as soft?"

Crash! A piece of silverware hit the floor with a loud clatter, drawing everyone's attention.

Mark released her hand, and just as Lillian took a relieved breath, she locked eyes with Conrad's blank expression.

Evelyn's apologetic voice rang beside him. "I'm sorry, Mr. Conrad, I—"

"A woman's hands are delicate," Conrad said coolly. "Don't bother picking up broken glass. That's not for you." As he spoke, a waiter came over with a broom to clean it up.

When this man wanted, he'd treat a woman like royalty.

But the ones he discarded? They were left in the dust.

"Lillian, don't you see Mr. Mark's wine glass is empty? Can't you show a little consideration?" Grace scolded, giving her a glare.

"I'm not feeling well—I'm just going to the restroom," Lillian replied, forcing herself to stand.

"In such a rush? I specially ordered this soup for you. Drink it while it's hot." Grace pointed at the soup in front of her.

Lillian picked up the bowl and downed it in one gulp, then got up to leave, not wanting to see Conrad another second longer.

Watching her go, Mark smacked his lips. "She doesn't seem too willing, huh?"

"Oh, she's just shy. We've already agreed—you're the best thing that could happen to her."

"She just drank the bowl of the drugged soup, so you'll be satisfied tonight, Mr. Mark," Grace added.

"Fine, I'll try her out. But if she's not—"

"Oh, please. Our Lillian's no freebie. We still expect that investment of yours, Mr. Mark. Don't forget to pay up."

In the restroom, Lillian leaned over the sink, dry heaving but unable to throw up.

The thought of that greasy old man made her feel sick. She turned on the faucet and began scrubbing her hands furiously with soap.

"Were you just at a matchmaking dinner?"

Lillian froze, looking up to see Evelyn walking toward her in the mirror. The initial awkwardness had mostly faded from her appearance. Though her outfit was expensive and stylish, she hadn't yet figured out how to carry it, giving off an air of trying too hard.

"Hey, want me to ask Conrad to find you someone better? Isn't this guy a bit… old?" Evelyn smirked.

Lillian's face stayed blank. "Older men have their perks. You're still young—some things you'll only get with experience."

"Oh, really? I don't see what's so great about him," Evelyn scoffed.

Lillian leaned closer, sizing her up. "You know why I had to leave your precious Conrad?" She paused, then smiled and whispered, "Because he is impotent~~"

She watched as Evelyn's face flushed with embarrassment. That little jab instantly lifted Lillian's mood. But as she reached the doorway, she locked eyes with Conrad, freezing like a deer in headlights.

"Mr. Conrad, did you come looking for me?" Evelyn quickly stepped past Lillian to stand in front of him.

Lillian, eager to get away, brushed past them.

Evelyn tugged at Conrad's arm. "I'm worried about her. Shouldn't we help?"

Conrad let out a cold laugh. "You think she needs your concern?"

Lillian stopped in her tracks, lips pressed together as she hurried around the corner. Cold sweat trickled down her forehead. She didn't know why, but seeing Conrad, catching even a whiff of his scent, had stirred something in her, almost making her want to throw herself into his arms and kiss him. She was relieved she hadn't acted on it, but her breath was shallow, her vision starting to blur.

"Oh, there you are." Mark appeared at the stairway, grinning as he wrapped an arm around her shoulders. "Not feeling well? Don't worry—you'll feel better soon."

"I'm fine!" She shoved his hand off, but he grabbed her again, dragging her toward the elevator and pressing the button for the floor.

She pushed him once more, trying to escape, but he caught her again, forcing her back against the elevator rail. She watched helplessly as the elevator doors slowly closed.

And just then, she saw Conrad walk past with Evelyn.

"Conrad!" she yelled without a second thought. She'd rather embarrass herself than be taken by this lecherous old man.

But Conrad merely turned, his expression icy as he watched her struggle, as Mark clamped a hand over her mouth, and the elevator doors slid shut.

"Let's go. Didn't you say you wanted dessert?" Conrad said to Evelyn.

"Thank you, Conrad." Evelyn's voice was sweet as the elevator closed.

Lillian stared at the closed doors, Mark gripping her tight, laughing. "Calling for Conrad? You think he cares? Tonight, you're all mine! Remember my name—Mark!"

Hopelessness and rage swallowed Lillian whole. Conrad, you bastard!

Her eyes blurred with sweat and tears, but she could still picture his cold and indifferent expression.

The hotel room door clicked open, and with no strength left, she was thrown onto the bed. Mark's eyes roamed over her as he unbuttoned his shirt, tying her hands to the bedpost with his tie.

"Bet your dad, Alvin, would turn over in his grave if he knew his daughter ended up with the likes of me—someone he once had shining his shoes." Mark laughed, pressing closer.

"Get off me! Go away!" she cried, but her voice barely came out louder than a whimper.

The phone rang suddenly, and Mark cursed, "What? I'm in the middle of something here, don't bother me!"

All Lillian could hear were rustling sounds. She barely opened her eyes, but her vision was blurry.

Just when she thought Mark might be leaving, her clothes were suddenly ripped apart. Her dress, now nothing but torn fabric, lay on the floor as his heavy body pressed down on her.

"Get off! I'll kill you, I swear!" she screamed, fury and despair choking her voice.

She shut her eyes, hoping to block out the horror, but it didn't help. His rough hands roamed over her, and tears slipped down her cheeks.

Suddenly, her jaw was yanked open, and she tasted blood as her tongue was bitten hard. She went cold with despair.

The man gripped her chin fiercely. "Trying to suicide already? We're just getting started."

Lillian's mind reeled—was she hallucinating? She thought she heard Conrad's voice.

"Speak!"

Her eyes shot open, and she saw his smug, arrogant face. A face she'd seen countless times from this same angle, right here on the bed.

"Conrad! You're out of your mind!" she yelled, rage and humiliation finally bursting out as she fought back, struggling wildly.

"Shh, behave!" Conrad sneered. "What's wrong? Not happy to see me?"

"You jerk..."

He pressed her face into the mattress, and she spat out every insult she could think of, her voice seething with rage.

But no matter how fiercely she cursed, he thrust into her even harder, unrelenting. She clenched the sheets tightly, her gaze fixed on the dark wolf tattoo that twisted over his red, sweat-slicked chest.

The entire night passed like that.

He was relentless, barely giving her room to breathe.

"Still got something to say?" he taunted.

"What…" Her mind was hazy, barely able to register his words.

His voice was a dark whisper behind her, traveling slowly up her spine. "I'm asking… still want to run?"

Lillian clenched her teeth. She wasn't a fool; pushing back against him now could very well be the end of her. Not saying anything, she remained silent, and he chuckled coldly.

Her last thought before she drifted off was that sex had a way of making the whole world narrowed down to just the two of you. Feelings didn't even have to be involved; sometimes all it took was one body fueling the other's craving.

But the cruelest trap a woman could set for herself was believing he might actually love her.

She refused to let herself fall into that trap again, not when it could destroy her completely.

When dawn finally broke, he seemed satisfied at last. He covered her worn-out body with the blanket, lying there with a sense of peace and satisfaction.

Money satisfied his ambition, and Lillian satisfied his desire.

He plugged in his phone to charge and called his assistant before heading to the bathroom to shower, ready to get back to business and deal with the woman who had kept him up for five nights straight.

She woke with a start, hearing him talking to someone in the bathroom. Without thinking, she scrambled to the floor to find her shredded clothes, but they were nothing but scraps. No way she could wear those!

Just as Lillian was panicking, the door opened, and Alice Pink walked in, only to see Lillian wrapped in nothing but a bedsheet, her slender legs trembling.

Alice's face showed surprise, then a flash of disgust. "Why is it you?" she sneered.

As Conrad's assistant, Alice held a high position, only second to Ford. From the start, Alice had clashed with Lillian, but later Lillian learned why—Alice was the daughter of the Pink family, placed in Conrad's company by Conrad's father. She had bigger ambitions than just being an assistant.

"Do you have any clothes for me?" Lillian asked, realizing Alice wouldn't be here unless Conrad had allowed it; Alice wouldn't dare enter his space on her own.

Alice tossed a bag onto a nearby chair. Lillian didn't care what Alice thought of her. She dropped the sheet, letting her sore body from last night's ordeal show in full view.

Alice's expression darkened, eyes fixed on the marks covering Lillian. She clenched her jaw—just from those marks, it was obvious how much Conrad had enjoyed himself with this woman.

She couldn't understand what it was about Lillian that kept Conrad interested after all these years.

The clothes Alice had brought were a bit tight on Lillian, but they'd have to do. In fact, they hugged her figure in a way that only highlighted her curves.

Alice couldn't help but comment, "So after all these years, it's still money you're after, huh? Now you're playing hard to get just for a bigger payoff?"

"This outfit doesn't fit, huh? You know, it wasn't bought in your size. Now that Mr. Conrad's got someone new, you might want to have a little self-respect and stop throwing yourself at him."

Lillian grabbed her things, unfazed. She knew Alice was talking about Evelyn.

She, too, wondered why Conrad had shown up in her room instead of being with Evelyn last night. But better to have Conrad than end up with Mark.

"Fine by me," Lillian said casually. "Go tell him I expect payment for the night—he knows the market rate."

Without wasting any more time, she hurried out of the hotel before Conrad noticed.

Alice turned around to find Evelyn standing there, pale.

"Alice, last night…" Evelyn stammered.

Alice put on a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Evelyn. You're different to Mr. Conrad. He's never treated anyone else so well. Lillian can't compare to you, but don't bring this up with him."

When Conrad came out of the bathroom, ready to deal with Lillian, he found Alice and Evelyn waiting in his suite.

"Mr. Conrad, Miss Lillian left just now," Alice informed him.

Conrad frowned. "Did she say anything before she left?"

"She told me to remind you to send the payment, at the market rate," Alice replied.

******

Lillian slept the whole day after getting home before realizing her period was late. She rushed to the hospital to get checked.

"Looks like your period should be starting soon. Any other tests you'd like?" the doctor asked.

She shook her head, feeling a wave of relief.

Thank goodness she wasn't pregnant—she'd had no idea what she'd have done if she were. She didn't want her child to grow up as someone's secret.

Leaving the exam room, a small smile crossed her face.

Evelyn froze, staring hard at Lillian's back. Why was she here at the OB-GYN? Could she be pregnant?

Meanwhile, Lillian had no idea she'd bumped into Evelyn. In a great mood, she grabbed a modeling gig from a familiar client in her work group chat—the kind of client who always saw a boost in sales when she wore their clothes. She quickly got home, planning to take a shower before heading over.

Her phone rang; it was Grace. Lillian didn't feel like talking, so she put the call on speaker and left it on the coffee table as she walked into the bathroom.

"Lillian, Mr. Mark said he's very satisfied. He's already transferred the money to your uncle's account. He wants to meet next week for some golf and introduce you to some important people. I've even got your dowry ready… This is the way to go, dear. A woman always needs a reliable man to depend on, and Mr. Mark is perfect for you."

Lillian stripped down and looked at herself in the mirror. Conrad, the brute, had left marks all over her. She could cover her arms with foundation, but her thighs were another story. Hopefully, tonight's outfit wouldn't be too revealing, or her client would think twice about hiring her again.

She sighed—he was getting in the way of her making money!

Just as she closed her eyes and stood under the showerhead, squeezing shampoo into her hands, the bathroom door suddenly opened.

A tall, muscular figure wrapped his arms around her from behind. Lillian's eyes flew open, and she screamed, the soap suds dripping into her eyes.

As she blinked in pain, the man held her firmly. "What's with the scream? Seen a ghost?"

Lillian froze, shivering, feeling as trapped as a snake held at its weakest spot.

"How did you get in?"

"Got a key. Did you really think it'd be hard for me?"

Of course, for him, it was easy. The building staff practically rolled out the red carpet for him, showing remarkable "professional ethics" by not tying a ribbon around her and handing her over.

His voice, dark as a devil's, whispered by her ear. "Why don't you stay at that nice place I got you? You prefer this dump?"

His breath was so close that her skin prickled.

"Or is it…" His words trailed off with a teasing edge, "…you like coming to places like this to cause trouble?"

She wanted to tell him she just wanted to get away from him—what's so wrong with that?

"What are you hiding from? Scared of me?" Conrad frowned at her, clearly irritated as she avoided his gaze.

"I don't want to have sex right now," she muttered.

He smirked. "Even if you did want to, don't you think I need a break?"

Conrad turned off the shower. "Get out already. Why are you standing there like a stiff?"

Lillian eyed him warily.

The cramped bathroom was so small it barely had room for him to turn around. He'd left his clothes in the living room. Grabbing a towel off the rack, he pulled her over, drying the water off her before giving her breasts a quick squeeze. "You've lost weight. You didn't eat right while I was gone, huh?"

She smacked his hand away, and to her surprise, he didn't get mad.

Conrad wasn't the type to like women who were too obedient or too feisty. Lillian had a knack for getting it just right, keeping him intrigued.

He pushed open the bathroom door, and the creaky sound made him frown. He found her so peculiar—she'd grown up pampered and privileged, but now she willingly put up with these rough conditions.

Lillian hurried to her room to change, but Conrad followed, pinning her down on the bed.

"I thought you said you weren't in the mood to have sex!" she snapped.

"Relax, I'm just checking if I hurt you last night," he replied, smirking.

He leaned down, and Lillian felt a bit awkward. No matter how many times they'd been close, she still wasn't used to him suddenly getting in her space like that.

Lillian felt the cool ointment being applied to her private area, telling herself he was just putting on medicine—maybe he still had a bit of conscience left.

But she finally couldn't take it. "You've done enough!"

Conrad pulled his hand back, showing her the mess of her own fluids on his fingers. "You want to leave? Funny, your body's a lot more honest than your mouth."

"Oh, please, Conrad. Just because I enjoyed the sex with you doesn't mean anything."

His good mood vanished, and he stood up, glaring down at her coldly. "What exactly is your game here? Go on, let's hear it."

Lillian sat up, clutching the blanket around her, giving a cold smile. "What game? I already told you, I'm getting older—I want to find a guy and settle down."

"Oh, you've got someone in mind? Mr. Mark, huh? Seems like you're not thrilled about it, though."

Her face fell. "Doesn't matter if it's him or someone else—at least he's willing to marry me. Unless… what, you're going to make me Mrs. Conrad?"

He looked down at her. "Keep dreaming."

Even though she'd already known the answer, hearing him say it still sparked a flare of anger.

"Then get out. Mr. Conrad, you're telling me you can't even pay for a woman's company? Go ahead and transfer last night's payment to my account."

Conrad hadn't expected that—Lillian actually telling him to leave.

"Lillian, remember those words."

Her eyes flashed with a hint of fear, but she steeled herself. If she could sell off whatever she'd gotten from him and add her grandmother's things, she'd have enough to leave City N with her grandma…

Seeing her looking defiant, he slammed the door as he left.

Lillian slumped down, exhausted. Good thing no one else had moved into this apartment yet. With him coming and going as he pleased, her safety was at risk.

She hadn't even had time to think about what to do next when Grace's call came through.

"Lillian, what are you doing? You haven't sent us any money this month, have you?"

Lillian frowned. "Didn't I just send money last month? It's only mid-month; why are you asking for more?"

"Your uncle's business loan hasn't come through yet. We need another $600,000. Besides, your grandma's got those hospital checks and a nurse—those things aren't free, you know."

"Doesn't Grandma have an insurance policy? Can't you claim it?"

"Oh, that's a laugh! If your dad hadn't gone bankrupt, your grandma wouldn't have been blacklisted as his guarantor. You should be grateful you can even go to school—could've been working in a brothel instead."

"Now, send over that $600,000. She needs a transfusion."

Lillian was done arguing. Holding onto her grandma's guardianship, they were basically extorting her. The reason Grandma had been blacklisted was because she had cosigned for her uncle, and now they were refusing to pay back their debts.

Her ID was even registered with them, leaving her under their control for every little thing.

$600,000…

She thought it over, threw on a nightgown, and went out the door to chase after Conrad.