Nicholas's mind raced with thoughts of escape with each steps he took. The air in the narrow tunnel was stale, suffocating, and the sound of their footsteps echoed ominously. It seemed like a desperate race against time.As they ventured deeper into the tunnel, they stumbled upon an unexpected sight. The passage suddenly widened, revealing a hidden opening that led to the vast expanse of the sea. Moonlight spilled through the opening, casting an ethereal glow on the churning waves below.Nicholas's heart skipped a beat at the sight. A motor boat, small yet sturdy, bobbed gently in the water, its engine idling. Rose's voice cut through the air, filled with sinister delight. "Oh, how touching. A family reunion at the precipice of doom. Nicholas, my dear, you get on board. Yumi and William will be staying behind."Nicholas turned to face Rose, his eyes burning with anger. "No, Rose! They have nothing to do with this. Let them go. It's me you want, isn't it?"Rose sneered, her grip t
After Nicholas had been thrown into the well, Rose ordered her men to close the opening, sealing him inside. The heavy stone slab slid into place, shutting off any glimmer of light from the outside world.Satisfied with her sinister act, Rose ascended the stairs, leaving the chamber behind.Returning to the upper floors of the castle, Rose made her way to a vantage point that overlooked the vast expanse of the sea. As she gazed into the distance, her thoughts swirled with a mixture of anticipation and a hint of trepidation.A wry smile curled on Rose's lips as she imagined Julia and her relentless pursuit.She knew the Phoenix family would be on her trail, to rescue Nicholas. But Rose was prepared. Even if they came with an army, she was unyielding and unafraid.In her mind, she played out various scenarios, envisioning the forces that could be marshaled against her.She reveled in the prospect of a battle, relishing the challenge that awaited. Rose was a woman consumed by her thi
As Nicholas lay unconscious at the base of the well, his mind engulfed in darkness, a faint voice called out to him. "Your highness. Your highness, wake up." The voice was familiar, like a distant echo penetrating his subconscious.Slowly, the sound seeped into Nicholas's unconscious state, stirring him from his slumber. His body felt heavy and his mind foggy, but the urgency in the voice compelled him to respond.With great effort, Nicholas opened his eyes, only to find himself surrounded by the cold, stone walls of a well. Confusion washed over him as he tried to piece together his fragmented memories.And then, like a beacon cutting through the darkness, he saw Julia's face.Her eyes were filled with tears, her expression a mix of relief and anguish."Julia?" Nicholas muttered, his voice hoarse and weak. "What... what's happening?"Tears dripped from Julia's eyes, falling softly onto Nicholas's face as she held him in her arms. "My lord, we found you. You're safe now," she whisp
The grand doors of the throne room swung open with a resounding creak, drawing the attention of all who were gathered inside. The courtiers, advisers, and members of the phoenix family turned their heads towards the entrance, anticipation evident in their eyes. The room was filled with an air of both tension and hope, for this was the day when King Nicholas would make his return home. Nicholas, adorned in regal attire, stepped into the room with measured grace. Every eye was fixed upon him, their gazes filled with a mix of reverence and relief. His recovery from the treacherous poison that had nearly claimed his life had been nothing short of miraculous. He had defied all odds and emerged triumphant from the clutches of death, earning the unwavering loyalty and respect of his subjects.The king was dressed in a flowing royal blue velvet robe, intricately embroidered with golden thread that glinted in the light. A golden crown adorned his head, gleaming with precious gemstones,
The TV crew diligently attended to the needs of King Nicholas. It was Nicholas's first appearance on an international live television, and the world-renowned News Broadcasting Corporation had secured the exclusive interview.The corporation, renowned for its unparalleled reach and influence, had managed what others could not. Every major news channel, including BBC, CNN, and Al Jazeera, had vied tirelessly to secure an interview with the esteemed King Dominik Niklaus, but their efforts had been in vain. It was a testament to the magnitude of this moment that the world's most influential news broadcaster had succeeded where others had failed.The TV crew, well-versed in the art of capturing history in the making, orchestrated their preparations with precision. Cameras were positioned strategically, lights were adjusted to perfection, and microphones were meticulously tested.The crew members moved with a quiet efficiency.As the crew carried out their duties, Nicholas stood before
"You piece of trash," Lady Carla growled, throwing a pair of dirty socks at Nicholas's face. "Your whole existence in this family pisses me off more than anything."Nicholas took the socks off his face and lowered his head. He held a basket of dirty clothes under his arm. He was about doing the laundry when Lady Carla stormed in and began raising hell. Lady Carla gritted her teeth, her back stiff with rage and contempt. "You're useless Nicholas. Why? Why have you chosen to bring disgrace and shame to my family?"Kimberly whom had been standing by and watching the scene all these while, finally intervened. "That's enough, mother."Lady Carla turned to her and pointed an accusing finger at Kimberly. "This is all your fault, Kim!"Kimberly looked surprised. "My fault?""If you hadn't married a loser like this trash you call a husband, I wouldn't hide my face in shame amongst other families."Kimberly took one glance at Nicholas then back to her mother. "I understand you mother but Nic
A couple of days later, members of the Goldstein's family held an emergency meeting in the Goldstein's conference room at the Goldstein's Villa. Everyone was in attendance, starting from the head of the family, Sir Harold down to the least member of the family. Nicholas was the least member of the family. He sat at the doorway of the conference room on a low wooden stool. No one paid him any attention nor seek his opinion. As a matter of fact, he was a nuisance but Sir Harold's summon must be honoured by all members of the family. Beatrice, the eldest daughter of Sir Harold began by explaining the financial situation of the family and the solution that can save them. The family's business was crashing down so fast immediate actions must be taken out.The Blackwells were willing to aid them with twenty million dollars, more than enough money to save the business. In exchange, George must be married into the Goldstein's family. At the end of her speech, Beatrice returned back t
"I don't agree to this!" Nicholas shouted. He had heard just about enough. It gave him no thrill to see members of the Goldstein family selling his wife off.As far as Nicholas was concerned, they were putting Kimberly up for sale. He cannot accept that. Everyone stared at him, shocked at his sudden outburst. Then they all burst into laughter. It was unthinkable of Nicholas to chip in on the family's conversation. His opinion didn't count. The conference hall echoed with more and more laughter. "You don't agree?" Jean mocked him. "Just who do you think you are?"Nicholas balled his hands in fist. "I don't agree to the Goldstein household's decision. My wife cannot marry George."Kimberly stiffened and gaped at Nicholas as he said those words. Why did he say that? What was he up to?"Shut up and seat down," lady Carla blasted at him. "Foolish man, must you disgrace me everywhere you go?""Who allowed this pauper here in the first place?" Sir Harold demanded, turning to Kimberly. "