The life of the underworld was something Ashley had dreamed of escaping all her life. Born as a bastard from an affair between an underworld kingpin and a prostitute, Ashley was meant to die even before she was born. The only reason she survived was that her father thought she was a boy.

From a young age, she understood that if she wanted to survive in this world of violence—on top of her father’s wife and daughter’s schemes—she had to be useful.

So, she made herself a promise: one day, she would escape this world.

Ashley almost succeeded… until her father found her again and thrust her into a marriage of convenience with his rival, Dominion, in his beloved daughter’s place.

Everyone in the underworld knew Dominion.

They were cruel, organized, and simply spawns of evil. And the man who stood above that power, Luciano, was said to be downright diabolical. Just their name alone could make anyone tremble.

And this organization was where Ashley now had to survive.

To make matters worse, the marriage also came with a child — Luciano’s mute heir.

Forced to become the wife of one of the most violent and powerful underworld organizations, and the mother of its future leader, Ashley made a vow.

“No matter what, I’ll escape this place!”

But she would soon realize it wouldn’t be as simple as that. Not when the feared members of Dominion clung to her feet, begging,

“Madam, don’t go!”

And when the mute stepson finally spoke, “Mommy, if you’re leaving, please take me with you.”

Finally, her diabolical, obsessive, and utterly territorial husband said,

“I’ve packed our things. Where should we go?”

***
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Lucian knitted his brows as her voice echoed in his ears. His gaze fixed on her as the dangerous, fierce look on her face twisted into shock.


Ashley's face soured as the question lingered in the quiet air. Was that actually a question? She wouldn't have attacked him if she knew it was him. She had only sensed danger, and from what life had taught her, it was best to move first to raise her chances of survival.


She wouldn't have lasted this long if she were slow on her feet.


"Heh." She let out an awkward laugh as he finally released her hands.


Ashley sat up, Lucian's knees still resting on either side of her legs. As she straightened, she came face to face with him, her face only two palm-lengths away from his.


"So—ahem, sorry," she said, leaning closer. "Are you hurt?"


Chapter 135 - Today's Mood