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Michael Joe
Michael Joe
Author

Novels by Michael Joe

A Strange System: Matteo's Rebirth

A Strange System: Matteo's Rebirth

Matteo De Cannio's life took a drastic turn when his parents, Mr. and Mrs. De Cannio Militao, passed away in a tragic road accident. Left in the care of his wicked stepmother, Lily De Cannio, Matteo's life became a living hell. His stepmother, a notorious drug dealer, mistreated and bullied him relentlessly. Despite the hardships, Matteo's fortunes changed when the Italian Government offered him a scholarship to study at a prestigious university. However, his stepmother refused to let him accept the offer. Forced to sell his stepmother's illicit drugs on the streets, Matteo's life took a devastating turn when he was killed by the police. But fate had other plans for him. Matteo awakened in a London hospital with a mysterious System that promised him unimaginable wealth and power to exact revenge on those who wronged him. His stepmother, who had killed him, was at the top of his list. With his newfound wealth and fame, Matteo became a force to be reckoned with, establishing big companies around the world. But as he plotted his revenge, he couldn't shake off the feeling that his stepmother's wickedness would not be easily defeated. As Matteo navigated his new life, he wondered: Would he survive his stepmother's evil schemes, even with his newfound power? What would happen when Mrs. Lily De Cannio discovered that Matteo was alive? The battle for revenge had just begun.
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Chapter: Chapter 29
The Millan Prison DaysMatteo sat alone in the dark corner of the small apartment Clara had offered him. It had been weeks since he had left the streets of Millan behind, weeks since he had seen his stepmother, Lily, or had to deal with the endless drug deals, the threats, and the fear that had once consumed his every waking moment. But even now, the memories lingered like a dark cloud over him. The past would never let him go, no matter how far he ran. Tonight, as he sat in silence, the images came rushing back. His mind flashed to the cold nights in Millan, to the days he had spent in the very heart of the criminal underworld—his prison.---The Dark BeginningsMilan, with all its promises of opportunity and freedom, had quickly revealed its darker side to Matteo. After his father’s tragic death, when his world shattered and Lily moved in with her cruel hand on his life, the city became his prison. He had no escape, no sanctuary, no safe place to hide. In those first few months af
Last Updated: 2025-01-12
Chapter: Chapter 28
The Breaking PointMatteo remembered how he used to walked the rain-slicked streets of Millan, as he made his way home. His backpack, heavy with cash and contraband, hung loosely from his shoulders. The weight of it felt like a constant reminder of the life he had been forced into, a life dictated by his cruel stepmother, Lily De Cannio. But that might, as he walked through the murky streets, something within him stirred. The anger, the shame, the hopelessness—all of it boiled to the surface.He stopped under the lights of a streetlamp, taking a deep breath and rubbing his face in frustration. His reflection in the puddle before him showed a tired, defeated boy. The boy who once had hopes, dreams, and aspirations. The boy who had wanted more for himself. Now, that boy felt buried beneath the weight of his mistakes and the invisible chains Lily had bound him with. His fingers trembled as he reached into his pocket, pulling out a crumpled picture of his parents. He stared at their smi
Last Updated: 2025-01-05
Chapter: Chapter 27
A Pawn in the GamesMatteo remembered how he wondered the streets of Millan were not a place for a teenager to wander alone, let alone one carrying a backpack filled with illegal substances. Matteo’s footsteps echoed against the wet cobblestones as he walked through the alleyways of the city, his heart pounding in his chest. He adjusted the straps of his bag nervously, his eyes darting to every side.This wasn’t the life he had envisioned for himself. Just a few years ago, Matteo had been a bright and ambitious boy, full of dreams. But those dreams had been crushed under the weight of Lily De Cannio’s cruelty. Now, he is a tool in her empire, a pawn forced into the dangerous world of drug dealing.A Lonely WalkMatteo’s thoughts wandered as he made his way to the first drop-off point. The instructions were always the same: go to the designated location, wait for the buyer, exchange the goods, and walk away. No small talk, no deviations, and most importantly, no mistakes.The night was
Last Updated: 2025-01-03
Chapter: Chapter 26
The Dark Secrets of Lily De Cannio For weeks, Matteo had been wrestling with memories of his stepmother, Lily De Cannio, the woman who had shaped much of his pain. But tonight, it wasn’t just her cruel words or manipulative schemes that haunted him—it was the darkest part of her world, the shadowy underbelly that had pulled him in against his will. Lily De Cannio had been more than a tyrannical stepmother. Beneath her socialite persona lay a woman deeply entrenched in illegal activities, including the drug trade. And Matteo, young and powerless, had been one of her pawns. The Revelation of a Double Life Matteo had been just fourteen when he first stumbled upon the truth. It was a late night, and the mansion was quiet. Unable to sleep, he had wandered downstairs, hoping to sneak a snack from the kitchen. But as he passed the study, hushed voices stopped him in his tracks. Curiosity got the better of him. Peeking through the slightly ajar door, he saw Lily sitting at her desk, flank
Last Updated: 2025-01-03
Chapter: Chapter 25
Breaking the ChainsMatteo’s memories were a storm he could no longer hold back. He felt the weight of his past pressing down on him. For all he had accomplished, the ghosts of his childhood continued to haunt him.The memories of his stepmother, Lily De Cannio, and the chains of oppression she had forged around him rose to the surface once again. Matteo clenched his fists, staring at the amber liquid swirling in his glass of whiskey. This time, he would let himself confront the pain fully.A Mother in Name OnlyWhen Lily De Cannio had stepped into his life, Matteo had been a vulnerable boy reeling from the sudden loss of his parents. She had appeared in his world like a cold wind in winter, bringing not comfort but cruelty.Lily was a striking woman with sharp features and an even sharper tongue. To the outside world, she was an image of poise and elegance, the grieving widow doing her best to raise a troubled boy. But behind the closed doors of the De Cannio mansion, she was a tyran
Last Updated: 2025-01-03
Chapter: Chapter 24
The Days of TormentMatteo leaned back in his chair. His thoughts wandered back to a time when the world was far less forgiving—a time when his stepmother, Lily De Cannio, ruled his life with cruelty and deceit.The bullies she had allowed, encouraged even, returned to his mind with startling clarity. Their sneering faces, their cutting words, and their vicious actions were etched into his memory, a stark reminder of the dark years after his parents' untimely death.A Household of HostilityLily had always claimed to the outside world that she was doing her best to raise Matteo after the tragic loss of his parents. To their neighbors, she played the role of the grieving widow, taking on the noble task of parenting a child who wasn’t her own. But behind closed doors, the façade crumbled into ash.Under her roof, Matteo was no more than an inconvenience, a living reminder of a man she had never truly loved. She ensured he knew his place—lower than the servants, an unwelcome guest in hi
Last Updated: 2025-01-01
The Belittled Lost Heir

The Belittled Lost Heir

Antonio grew up in an orphanage , often bullied by older boys and dismissed by society for being “nobody.” After leaving on the streets he meets Lisa—she traps him with a contract marriage using him to get what she wants while offering him two thing in return—food in his stomach and a roof over his head. Helpless Antonio takes her offer facing more humiliation and condemnation from high socialists. His life takes a turn when an annual gala which he attends leads him to a stunning revelation that changes everything: his biological father, a powerful and wealthy man, had been searching for him for years. Unknown to Antonio , he was the heir to a billion-dollar empire. With his newfound fortune, Antonio rises to wealth and power with revenge in his heart. As he navigates through the world of the high society, he faces new enemies and discovers dark secrets about his empire.
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Chapter: Chapter 60
Epilogue: Antonio's mindset, It was a stark contrast to the chaotic life he had once lived, and yet it held a familiarity that grounded him. He stood by the floor-to-ceiling window, his silhouette bathed in the golden glow of the rising sun. The city sprawled beneath him, vibrant and alive, much like his new beginning.The months following his rise to power had been transformative. Antonio De Luca was no longer the underdog who had been dismissed by society or the contract husband tethered to someone else's ambitions. He was now a man in control of his destiny, a king of his own making.But kings, he had learned, could not rule without mercy.A Clean SlateLisa sat across from him in his spacious office one evening, her fingers nervously tracing the edge of her teacup. Gone was the confident, calculating woman who had once entrapped him with a contract. In her place was someone humbled by her mistakes, someone who had learned that power was not a birthright but a privilege.“I want t
Last Updated: 2024-12-27
Chapter: Chapter 59
The Rise of a KingThe grand boardroom of the newly rebranded De Luca Holdings was a testament to Antonio’s ascension. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a panoramic view of the city skyline, reflecting the empire he had built with relentless determination. The long mahogany table was filled with executives, their faces a mixture of awe and reverence as they awaited his decision on a pivotal merger.Antonio De Luca sat at the head of the table, a position he had fought tooth and nail to claim. He wore a tailored suit that screamed power, his presence commanding the room without the need for raised voices or dramatic gestures."Mr. De Luca," one of the executives ventured cautiously, "your approval on this deal would solidify our market dominance in Europe."Antonio leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers as he considered the proposal. "Send me a detailed analysis by the end of the day. I don’t sign off on anything without understanding every detail," he said, his voice measured
Last Updated: 2024-12-27
Chapter: Chapter 58
The Fall of TitansLisa’s parents, had once commanded the upper echelons of society. Their name was synonymous with power, their wealth an impenetrable fortress that ensured their dominance. But now, that fortress had crumbled, leaving behind nothing but ruins.The mansion they had once proudly called home was sold off to cover debts. The family’s sprawling estate, which had hosted countless soirées and charity galas, now sat empty, its silence a haunting reminder of their downfall. Margaret and Charles, once larger than life, were now mere shadows of their former selves.The Catalyst for CollapseThe unraveling of the Langfords’ empire began with Antonio’s divorce from Lisa. Antonio had been the key to their survival, the anchor that had held their fragile financial stability together. His resources, influence, and growing empire had propped up their failing fortunes for years. But the moment Antonio ended the contract marriage, the support system they had come to rely on disappeared
Last Updated: 2024-12-26
Chapter: Chapter 57
The End of the ContractAntonio paced the length of his own study, his mind racing as he prepared for what had to be done. The office room—a symbol of his reclaimed legacy—did little to soothe the turmoil in his heart. The polished desk, the intricate overhead, the commanding view of the city—all of it felt meaningless compared to the raging within him.For years, the marriage contract had bound him and Lisa together, an arrangement born out of convenience and necessity rather than love. But now, with his father’s legacy restored and his own empire thriving, Antonio knew he could no longer live in this farce.He had to end it.The DecisionAntonio picked up the divorce papers he had prepared days ago, running his fingers along the edges of the document. It wasn’t an impulsive decision. He had thought it through carefully, weighing the consequences and the freedom it would bring.Lisa deserved to move on as much as he did. She had been cruel, yes, but in her own way, she had suffered
Last Updated: 2024-12-25
Chapter: Chapter 56
The Past CallsAntonio leaned back in his chair, his gaze fixed on the outside of his towering office. The lights, once a symbol of his ambition, now seemed to mock him, reminding him of all he had sacrificed to reach the top. Lisa’s words lingered in his mind, cutting deeper with each passing moment. She had been right—he had become consumed by power and vengeance, forgetting the boy he once was, the man she had once believed in.But with her letter came memories he had buried deep, memories of the humiliations and condemnations he had endured, not just from strangers but from Lisa herself and her circle of high society elites. The past came flooding back, a torrent of pain that he could no longer ignore.The Early Days of the ContractAntonio remembered the day Lisa first proposed the marriage contract. He had been sitting on the cold steps of a rundown apartment complex, clutching his growling stomach as rain poured down around him. Lisa had approached him like a savior, her des
Last Updated: 2024-12-24
Chapter: Chapter 55
The Cost of VictoryAntonio had always thought that achieving success would be enough to fill the void. He had dreamed of wealth, power, and recognition for so long that he believed they were the ultimate antidote to the pain of his past. But now, as he sat in the silence, the grandeur of his empire surrounding him, the realization struck him—success alone wasn’t enough. The taste of vengeance had been sweet at first, but now it felt hollow, like a fleeting victory that had no substance behind it.The lights of the city twinkled in the distance, like the stars he had once dreamed of reaching. But now, even as he stood at the top, the view felt empty. The ghosts of his past, the memories of those he had wronged, seemed to haunt him more than the people he had sought revenge against.He had made them all pay—the bullies from his past, his family who had dismissed him, the people who had made him feel small. They had all been humbled, broken in one way or another. And yet, in the after
Last Updated: 2024-12-24
Ramon Cruz and the Mysterious System

Ramon Cruz and the Mysterious System

Ramon had just ran away from home. He had his father, Andreas sent to prison for bullying his smoking addictive mother since he was a little boy, but now that he is grown up, he is the bread winner of his family and even had to provide for his mother. Roseline, decided to be a nun just to help Ramon study after he got a scholarship into a prestigious university. Ramon was happy thinking he could get rich and study just to change his poor fate and help his mother. He met with Chloe who was infatuated with his cold attitude but later she made her intention known. She dated him because she believed he was rich. When Ramon knew she left him for Xavier, who has his eyes on Chloe for a long time. Xavier even had Ramon crippled and just when he thought his life was over. A gaming system appeared on his phone promising revenge and not only that but wealth beyond his wildest dream.
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Chapter: Chapter 144
Violet’s LightViolet Andreas stood at the heart of the Andreas estate, the sprawling gardens alive with the laughter of her children, Lucas and Isla. The sun shone through the canopy of ancient oaks, casting a golden glow over the scene. She took a deep breath, her heart swelling with gratitude.The path that had brought her here was not easy. She had fought battles of her own, learned to navigate the complexities of the Andreas family, and emerged as a pillar of strength. Now, as Ramon’s wife and a cherished member of the family, she finally felt at peace.Finding Her PlaceWhen Violet first married Ramon, the weight of the Andreas legacy had felt overwhelming. Ramon’s parents, Andreas and Clara, were formidable figures—legends in their own right. They had built Andreas Enterprises from the ground up, weathering storms that would have broken lesser people.For a young woman like Violet, their expectations were daunting. She worried about meeting their standards, about whether she co
Last Updated: 2024-12-02
Chapter: Chapter 143
Ramon Andreas, The Reluctant HeroRamon Andreas had always seen himself as a man of reason, a leader who relied on careful planning and unyielding determination to navigate life’s challenges. Yet, his recent journey had thrust him into a role he never sought: the hero who not only united a fractured family but also took on the enigmatic entity known as the System.The System was no ordinary adversary. It was a shadowy network with tendrils stretching into governments, corporations, and the most powerful families in the world. Its influence was insidious, capable of turning allies into enemies and exploiting human weaknesses for profit and control. For years, it had been the unseen force behind the Andreas family’s discord, manipulating events to ensure that their legacy would crumble.But Ramon was not a man to back down from a fight—especially not when his family’s future was at stake.Unveiling the TruthRamon’s discovery of the System had been accidental. It began with a series of
Last Updated: 2024-12-02
Chapter: Chapter 142
The Andreas Family: United at LastThe Andreas family had come a long way from the days of strife and separation. Years of misunderstandings and missteps had tested their bonds, but through resilience, love, and forgiveness, they had found their way back to one another. Now, as they stood united, their story was not just one of survival but of triumph over adversity.A Home ReclaimedThe Andreas estate, nestled amidst rolling hills and framed by ancient oak trees, had always been a place of grandeur. Yet, for years, its splendor masked the fractures within the family. The once-silent halls now reverberated with laughter and joy.Ramon, the eldest son, and his wife Violet had transformed the estate into more than just a home—it was a sanctuary where family and community thrived. Ramon’s dedication to Andreas Enterprises was matched only by his devotion to his family. Violet, his steadfast partner, had grown into a guiding force, her passion for philanthropy shaping the mission of th
Last Updated: 2024-12-02
Chapter: Chapter 141
Years had passed since the Andreas family found their way back to one another, and their story had become the cornerstone of a legacy that resonated far beyond their own lives. The family had learned to appreciate the beauty of togetherness, the strength of forgiveness, and the transformative power of love. The Andreas Estate: A Place of Peace The Andreas estate had transformed over the years into more than just a family home—it was now a sanctuary of growth and learning. The sprawling gardens, once a silent witness to family conflicts, now brimmed with life and laughter. Children ran through the pathways, their joy a testament to the family’s journey. Ramon and Violet lived there with their children—Lucas, now a spirited young boy with his father’s drive and his mother’s creativity, and his younger sister, Isla, whose laughter could light up a room. The house echoed with their energy, a constant reminder of the hope that had been reborn within its walls. Andreas and Cl
Last Updated: 2024-12-02
Chapter: Chapter 140
The Foundation of ForeverThe Andreas family’s journey from division to unity had been nothing short of extraordinary. Now, with their relationships healed and a bright future ahead, they turned their focus to building a legacy that would endure for generations. This was not just a celebration of their reunion but a concerted effort to ensure the lessons they had learned shaped the lives of others.A Shared VisionRamon sat with Victor and Clara in the grand study of the Andreas estate, their discussions about the future flowing with enthusiasm. Violet, with Lucas in her arms, joined them, her ideas bridging the generational gap.“We’ve rebuilt our family,” Ramon said, “but now it’s time to channel that energy into something greater. A legacy that’s about more than just wealth—it should be about connection, empowerment, and giving back.”Andreas nodded, his expression thoughtful. “I couldn’t agree more. The company has always been a part of who we are, but it needs to evolve. Andrea
Last Updated: 2024-12-02
Chapter: Chapter 139
A Family UnitedThe Andreas estate, once a symbol of conflict and estrangement, now stood as a beacon of unity and peace. Where walls once echoed with arguments and heartbreak, they now carried the sounds of laughter, love, and a renewed sense of purpose. The family, once fragmented by years of misunderstandings, had come together stronger than ever.A Day in the New LifeIt was a Sunday morning, and the estate was alive with activity. In the sprawling garden, Victor Andreas knelt beside his grandson, Lucas, helping him plant a small sapling. The boy’s laughter rang out as he enthusiastically dug into the soil with his tiny hands, smudging dirt on his face in the process.Victor chuckled. “Careful, Lucas. We’re planting the tree, not eating the dirt.”Clara, watching from a nearby bench, smiled warmly. She hadn’t seen Victor so engaged in years. Their shared love for Lucas had mended bridges and healed wounds she once thought irreparable.Nearby, Ramon and Violet were setting up a
Last Updated: 2024-12-02
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