# Noveo Novels > Endless Novels at Your Fingertips. ## Posts - [FCVBGDFG 28](https://noveostories.com/the-face-con-villainess-became-the-grand-dukes-crazy-fangirl/fcvbgdfg-28/): Chapter 28   Perhaps it was because I’d left the bright, lively place behind. I tried hard to shake off the mood that was starting to turn gloomy, forcing myself to call out cheerfully. I straightened my shoulders with determination.   “Still, I just have to get through today!”   If I could endure just this one day, starting tomorrow I’d be able to see Axel again. Since I hadn’t seen him in so long, I planned to stick to his side tenaciously.   No matter what, I won’t leave his side!   It was right as I was making... - [TBDSDF - Ch 155](https://noveostories.com/the-baby-dragon-saves-the-duke-family/tbdsdf-ch-155/): Episode 155       Meanwhile, around that time.   Edenber was looking at his mother’s portrait placed in a corner of the warehouse.   It was several years ago, back when he had just ascended to the position of Duke.   To emphasize that he was no longer a child, he had taken it down from the wall, and it was a portrait he had never taken out since.   As a child, he would think of her whenever he missed her, but as he grew up, he had completely let go of the memory.   It was based... - [TBDSDF - Ch 154](https://noveostories.com/the-baby-dragon-saves-the-duke-family/tbdsdf-ch-154/): Episode 154     The drawing room of the Empress’s Palace. The mother and son were in the middle of a conversation there.   “I tried to link you with Lady Erzébet somehow, but the Count and Countess of Erzébet refused vehemently.”   The Empress openly showed her displeasure.   “They dare not know their place. No matter how important recovering our image is, it seems we must give up on Lady Erzébet.”   “…….”   “How about using the daughter of Sunrise instead? She may be foolish, but she is excellent at knowing her place. If I pull some... - [TBDSDF - Ch 153](https://noveostories.com/the-baby-dragon-saves-the-duke-family/tbdsdf-ch-153/): Episode 153     Asil sat beside Ikart, holding a pretty notebook and writing instruments.   “You know, Duke. What kind of person was that lady?”   “……That lady?”   Ikart, who had been lying in the garden idly soaking up the sun, wore a very displeased expression.   Asil nodded her head with bright, clear eyes.   “Yes. Edenber’s mother.”   “In all my life, I have never heard such a title. Why do you ask such a thing?”   “It’s a secret.”   She had promised to keep it a secret that she knew Rune was Edenber’s mother.... - [TBDSDF - Ch 152](https://noveostories.com/the-baby-dragon-saves-the-duke-family/tbdsdf-ch-152/): Episode 152     Asil cautiously moved toward the vassals to hear their conversation more clearly.   They were completely unaware that someone was eavesdropping on their words.   “I’ve heard that story too, but wasn’t it just a baseless rumor?”   “Well, actually, it was my distant relative who attended to the Duchess during her difficult labor back then. They said it was quite a predicament because the Duke didn’t even set foot in the Duchess’s room, busy tending to a sick divine beast.”   “Oh dear……”   “Moreover, it’s said he hardly showed his face to the current... - [TBDSDF - Ch 151](https://noveostories.com/the-baby-dragon-saves-the-duke-family/tbdsdf-ch-151/): Episode 151       Initially, I intended to have a meal alone with Edenber, but because Rune struggled and insisted on following, Ikart ended up joining us.   “The Duke is dining with us as well? Ah, yes, yes…….”   Perhaps because it had been a long time since the two of them shared a meal, the servants were startled as if struck by lightning, yet they quickly prepared the table.   Dining with the father and son was awkward and uncomfortable.   Neither man said a word, but for that very reason, a taut tension hovered throughout the... - [TBDSDF - Ch 150](https://noveostories.com/the-baby-dragon-saves-the-duke-family/tbdsdf-ch-150/): Episode 150       Asil pretended to trip over a stone and firmly covered the back of his hand with her handkerchief.   However, Reinhardt did not just stay still.   “Kyaang!”   Because Reinhardt quickly moved to avoid it, Asil ended up falling flat on the ground.   “What are you doing?”   A voice that sent chills down her spine dropped from above.   Ouch, that hurts. Tears welled up because she fell so hard, but Asil quickly brushed off her dress and stood up.   “I tripped over a stone.”   “Your handkerchief has become dirty... - [TBDSDF - Ch 149](https://noveostories.com/the-baby-dragon-saves-the-duke-family/tbdsdf-ch-149/): Episode 149     On the day of the unexpected final battle, Asil entered the palace at the Empress’s summon.   The pretext was a tea time to promote friendship with the young ladies of the nobility, but once she arrived, it wasn’t a simple tea time, as political talk kept surfacing.   “The beginning was not ideal, but I intend to use this incident as an opportunity to open a dialogue with the shifters.”   It was a sudden remark, but the young ladies in the room were not surprised.   As families of high enough status to be... - [TBDSDF - Ch 148](https://noveostories.com/the-baby-dragon-saves-the-duke-family/tbdsdf-ch-148/): Episode 148     “Ahem…….”     Elcai let out another long hum. He remained that way for a long while with a face carefully choosing his words, then opened his mouth in a low, cautious tone.   “To be honest, we cannot give you something better than the Imperial Family. In terms of material aspects, they would naturally be superior.”   Moreover, since there were those within the family siding with them, no matter how good a thing they prepared here, it would be over the moment the information leaked.   Because they would prepare something far better than... - [TBDSDF - Ch 147](https://noveostories.com/the-baby-dragon-saves-the-duke-family/tbdsdf-ch-147/): Episode 147     ‘It’s been so long!’   I missed you so much, Grandfather! Asil, who recognized him instantly despite it being a long time since their last meeting, ran toward him at full speed.   She was about to dive right into his arms but stopped just inches away.   ‘Ah, right. From Grandfather’s perspective, he doesn’t know that I am the divine beast Asil, right?’   From Elcai’s point of view, knowing nothing, it would likely look like some unknown young lady was performing a body slam on him.   However, it was too disappointing to just... - [TBDSDF - Ch 146](https://noveostories.com/the-baby-dragon-saves-the-duke-family/tbdsdf-ch-146/): Episode 146     “…….”   “…….”   A long silence flowed through the drawing room.   As if he hadn’t expected his proposal to be so coldly rejected, Reinhardt froze for a moment with one hand still held out.   Asil stared blankly at Reinhardt’s hand, then picked up a cookie from the refreshments on the table and placed it on top of his palm.   “……?”   Reinhardt looked at her with a gaze that asked what this was supposed to be. Asil answered confidently.   “A cookie.”   “…….”   “You may eat it.”   That was... - [TBDSDF - Ch 145](https://noveostories.com/the-baby-dragon-saves-the-duke-family/tbdsdf-ch-145/): Episode 145     Asil, whose cheeks felt itchy from shyness, quickly scratched her cheek.   Then, avoiding Edenber’s gaze, she cleared her throat with a “hem hem,” lifted her chin, and spoke primly.   “No. I’m not ready yet.”   “Aha, so it’s something that isn’t easy to give at any time.”   Nodding his head, he pondered over something for a moment. Then, he took a small box out from his coat and held it out. Hmm? What is this?   Could it be… the proposal ring that humans are said to hold out when asking someone to... - [TBDSDF - Ch 144](https://noveostories.com/the-baby-dragon-saves-the-duke-family/tbdsdf-ch-144/): Episode 144     Karon, who recognized the man, muttered blankly.   “……The Duke of Monlepe?”   “Hmm.”   Ikart, the Duke of Monlepe, looked around and let out a light hum.   “I thought this was the residence of the High Priest of Monlepe.”   At that moment.   “Yiyahhh!”   Kwang!   Just in time, Asil appeared, vigorously breaking down the door.   She had a long-tailed tit on top of her head and a lizard tucked in her pocket.   Asil was about to charge straight at Karon, but she spotted Ikart standing between Karon and Basian... - [TBDSDF - Ch 143](https://noveostories.com/the-baby-dragon-saves-the-duke-family/tbdsdf-ch-143/): Episode 143       The Divine Beast Thanksgiving Festival was temporarily suspended due to an unprecedented incident.   All events scheduled for the first day were postponed, and the festivities set to take place throughout the capital were also delayed.   Considering it was an event large enough to draw visitors from other countries, one might expect someone to voice their dissatisfaction.   However, no one complained.   The appearance of a fake Divine Beast was shocking enough, but the emergence of a true Apostle of God, along with the appearance of the twin siblings reported dead and the... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 56](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-56/): “…” “In the real world, I didn’t run! Before the running even happened, things got… heated, and we went ahead with the wedding night together! Well, ‘heated’ might be understating it — but either way, I was already in love with you by then. Even knowing you were a psychopath, I was absolutely mad about you. And we stayed married, and two years later Kai was born! You were secretly using contraception without telling me, which is why the first one came a little late!” “Ha. I see you intend to perform quite an elaborate charade.” “And then there was... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 55](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-55/): The sound of military boots — pressing down each step with the force of fury long and carefully contained. That sinister, suffocating rhythm tightened around my throat like a noose. I knew instinctively, without turning around, that Kael was behind me. It felt like something wringing my neck from the inside. I kept walking forward, pretending I hadn’t noticed, slipping slowly through the parted sea of people without so much as a backward glance. Thud. Thud. The footsteps were getting closer. Of course they were. My legs were considerably shorter than Kael’s — I was being overtaken in real time.... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 54](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-54/): I cursed myself. Cursed the version of me from just moments ago, so swept up in the moment that I’d broken into dance in front of hundreds of people. Damn it all! I was losing my mind. I genuinely felt like I might wet myself on the spot. It was only a matter of time before I was caught. There were hundreds of people watching my little dance performance back there! Now that I thought about it, I couldn’t even remember why I’d run this far in the first place. What had possessed me to come all the way out... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 53](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-53/): At the bow stood a figure in a trim white uniform, looking very pleased with himself. Up close, he turned out to be a grey-haired old gentleman. He stood at the very centre of the bow, hands clasped behind his back, radiating an air of dignified self-possession. I waited patiently for a while. A good number of other people were waiting behind me too, eager to enjoy this famous spot. “What is this — he’s had a good long look; he could at least step aside.” “That man appears to be Captain Masho.” “Oh. He’s the captain? And this Masho... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 52](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-52/): Kael’s gaze moved to the child. Bella was very, very frightened of the Duke. But she gripped her cold little fingers tightly and gathered the courage to ask. “The Duchess — if the Duke finds her, will she be in trouble?” “…” “Or does she have to do a penalty?” Kael bent at the waist and brought himself level with the child’s eyes. “If you’ve done wrong, you should face the consequences.” “Eek—!” Bella was stricken. Watching the situation deteriorate, Hugo quickly intervened. “Th-there might be consequences, but not a serious penalty! The Duke loves the Duchess very much!” Bella... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 51](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-51/): —Boooom. The ship’s horn rang out and shook the very ground. “Miss. It’s already one o’clock.” “I know — what nerve, scheduling everything to the minute and then showing up late himself!” “Indeed. We should board regardless. If we don’t complete check-in now, we might miss the ship.” “We can’t let that happen! Let’s go. But what about the remaining payment?” “That’s his fault for being late.” “Right. Fifty gold saved.” “Though strictly speaking, we’re still in the negative. We never received our gold bars.” “Oh, damn it all! That insufferable, scheming little thief! He planned this from the very... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 50](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-50/): Our Duke? What’s this? I was thoroughly taken aback. And, at the same time, a little curious. “…Do you know Duke Hardeion?” “Know him! Why, the late Duchess found our Nureongi for us.” “Nureongi?” “That’s our dog’s name. Back when we lived in Hardeion territory — my husband had gone and lost the creature. Fortunately, the late Duchess found the dog for us. The Duke was seventeen at the time. Even as a young lord, he was a striking one.” “…Ah.” “Even then, we heard that the young lord simply couldn’t sleep. The late Duchess was terribly worried about it... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 49](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-49/): “Oh! Bella wants to be a doctor?” “Yes! It’s my dream to become a doctor! Because a doctor told me — that if I just had the money, they could fix Mama’s leg! But I don’t have money, so… if I become a doctor myself, I can fix Mama’s leg for free!” “What a wonderful dream. You dear, kind child. I have no choice — you’re so good that this grandmother simply has to give you two gifts.” “No, no! One gift is enough. I only need money for meat and to study to become a doctor!” I looked at... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 48](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-48/): [HANDMADE] The grey canopy bore those words in rough, unpolished lettering. Unlike the colourful stalls nearby, this one looked plain and unpretentious — and unlike the others, it had not a single customer. This only made it look lonelier. But something about it drew me inexplicably toward it. “Emily. Can we just stop at that one last place?” “Of course we can.” We made our way over quickly. The stall’s display was covered in an array of colourful candles — red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet. The sight made me think of a rainbow. As we hovered, examining the... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 47](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-47/): [Day 14, 12:00–12:10 PM: Stand by.] [Day 14, 12:10–12:20 PM: Stand by.] [Day 14, 12:20–12:30 PM: Stand by.] . . . [Day 14, 12:40–12:50 PM: Wait for Caesar. Say farewell to Caesar. Pay Caesar the remainder. ♡] [Day 14, 12:50–1:00 PM: Board ship.] “Why is this written in third person? That’s so irritating!” “He’s a bit insufferable, isn’t he.” “And why on earth are all these ‘stand by’ entries broken into individual ten-minute slots? There’s nothing happening in them! He went to all this trouble of writing out a minute-by-minute schedule — for doing nothing at all! Does this man... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 46](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-46/): One hour later. “Here we are.” “Oh! Already? We’ve arrived?” “Of course! The word ‘failure’ has no place in my vocabulary! That right there is Rims Free Port!” “Wow!” Ships of every size were lined up along the harbour, stretching out in a long row. We had finally reached the end of Folly territory — the eastern port city. The sight of a working harbour, which I was seeing for the very first time in my life, was magnificent. “This is incredible! You really are something else as a driver! Three hours of road in one hour!” “Out you get.”... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 45](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-45/): “You there! Garrison commander!” The garrison commander turned with a blank, defeated expression. “My lord…” For things to have come to this — an elderly lord past seventy, riding out on horseback himself. Not even a carriage. A horse. The lord had arrived at the checkpoint and flung himself off the horse with haste. His knees, afflicted with thirty years of chronic arthritis, didn’t even register the pain as he rushed toward the garrison commander. “Why are you standing there like a fool! What did the guards say—” He caught sight of his own men, struggling and swaying as they... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 44](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-44/): Angela was not a learned woman — but she was a shrewd one. She thought of the only man who had helped her today, and understood in an instant: this handsome young lord was her benefactor’s younger brother. “May I ask your name? I feel I ought at least to know who my benefactor is…” “Ah. I’m currently being pursued by a rather dangerous group of people, so — ahem.” “What? Good heavens! Let me help—” “The only help I need from you is this: if anyone asks about someone who looks like me, tell them you know nothing. Say... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 43](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-43/): “I’m completely certain. I swear it. I don’t do things I’d be ashamed to let my child see. I’m only worried that if I take this money home, my husband will find it.” Angela spoke with full conviction, thinking of the mercenary licence she’d seen inside the wallet. The teller gave a deep, decisive nod. “In that case — we can absolutely help you. I’ll take care of it right now.” The teller threw herself into the task with burning determination. What normally took two hours, she accomplished in one — her eyes practically blazing with fire. “Angela, the account... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 42](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-42/): “I — I’ve lost a little weight recently. All that forced marching while hunting monsters…” “What monsters? There are no monster territories anywhere near here.” “I — I’m on my way back from the north. A rather long assignment.” “Hmm. You’re damn suspicious.” “…I’ve been told that often.” This was not an easy guard to deal with. Despite my swift concession, he remained relentless. He gestured for his colleague to come over. Standing side by side with his companion at last, the guard tapped the licence with his index finger. “Hey. What do you think? Does this photo actually match... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 41](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-41/): “Might I take Maxim’s mercenary licence?” “Oh, this? I have no use for such a thing — please, take it!” Angela pulled the licence out without hesitation and held it straight out to me. I accepted it with a satisfied expression. “Wonderful, thank you. I was actually in need of a mercenary licence.” “Of course! Oh — and after everything you’ve given me, I really should share at least a little of it—” “Please, no. We’re managing perfectly well. Hurry home — Angie must be missing her mother terribly.” “Snff… To think a day like this could come for me.... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 40](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-40/): The bearded one and dead-fish eyes — that was presumably us. We had lifted the wretched mercenary’s wallet and ran. We walked along the road leading out of the mercenary quarter. But as we walked, we wandered into somewhere peculiar — a street with a distinctly sinister and squalid atmosphere. “This seems to be where the brothels are clustered.” “What’s a brothel?” Emily leaned in and explained in a whisper. “Good heavens. Places like that actually exist?” “It’s a market with substantial demand. That’s how markets work. As long as there’s demand, it can’t disappear. I suppose it would cease... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 39](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-39/): —Oomph. The carrier bag hit the floor immediately. “Aaahh!” “Oh dear!” Fortunately, Jonathan caught the descending bag just in time. I kept my composure, refusing to reveal that I was, in fact, a rather weak woman. “Ha ha. I did just defeat a monster. My strength is quite depleted.” “Ah, I see. Hmm. That’s a bit of a problem then…” At that moment, Rico said brightly: “Oh! We can load it onto the cart, can’t we. I use it for deliveries — kept it in the cart as a spare.” “Oh! That would be most welcome. If you would be... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 38](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-38/): I went on alert and cast a careful glance behind me. From the look of them — work-worn and rowdy — it was a group of mercenaries just finished with a job. And the topic of their conversation was, unmistakably, me. Emily and I held our breath and listened in unison. “Once I find the Duchess, I’m divorcing the wife and remarrying my Rosie on the spot.” “Heh heh. You piece of work. Ten years your wife’s been running your household and you’d dump her in a heartbeat.” “Can’t be helped. My Rosie’s carrying my child.” “Oi. Doesn’t Angela carry... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 37](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-37/): “Blast it all!” He had drawn the Joker. We won again. The man who had been acting so composed and weighty dropped the pretense the instant he lost, immediately swearing. The hand gripping the card was trembling outright. I laughed at them all without restraint. “Ha ha ha! Undefeated! My wife has done it again! What a pity for all of you! Ha ha ha!” In one hour, Emily had won a total of eighty gold. “That should be enough, I think. Shall we head off?” “Yes!” We linked arms and headed for the exit in high spirits. “Emily, that... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 36](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-36/): “Our casino does not admit women.” We were very nearly turned away the moment we stepped inside. I widened my eyes and thrust both fists forward. “I am a man!” “Not you. Her. That one’s a woman.” A pork-faced doorman with a dragon tattoo on his forearm jutted his chin toward Emily. “Hmm.” Emily gave a quiet, composed sound. I grabbed Emily’s hand and made a forceful case: “And what law says women can’t gamble? What century do you think we’re living in?” “Yes, yes. Take your revolution outside. Point is, she can’t come in, so turn around.” The doorman... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 35](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-35/): —Clatter, clatter, clatter, clatter. The hired carriage shot forward like a runaway locomotive. I was sent rolling around the inside like a hamster in a wheel. “Aaagh — hff! Hngh—!” It felt rather like a 360-degree rotating roller coaster. —Jolt, rattle! Clatter, clatter, clatter! “Kyaaa! Mmph! Haaah!” I groaned and tumbled. Or perhaps I was more accurately flying. Fortunately, I was not the only thing rolling around. My cap and wig had both come off and were also bouncing around the carriage interior. The driver was also going airborne at irregular intervals, letting out strangled cries. “Hyaah! Ogh! Not my... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 34](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-34/): “Eek!” I grabbed at my own chest and sat down hard on the floor. “What do we do! I think — I think we just made eye contact! And — and never mind that, why does he look so gaunt? That’s upsetting! He should at least be eating properly! Though going gaunt makes him look even more dangerous somehow!” “Miss. Change your clothes. Quickly.” Even as Emily urged me, I sat there pale as a sheet and trembling uncontrollably. —Boom. Boom. The footsteps reverberating through the building were growing louder. “Miss, now! We really might get caught!” “Yes!” Emily’s shout... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 33](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-33/): We dashed up the stairs two at a time. We reached the room without incident. I leaned against the old shoe rack, breathing hard. “Hff — hah. The old gentleman is very kind.” “He really is. And he didn’t charge us a thing — even for the deluxe room.” Emily stood at the entrance and surveyed the room. Then she arranged the shoes with perfect neatness and stepped inside. I took off my shoes tidily and followed. “…That said, Emily. Was it all right to use your mother like that? Because of me, you—” “Oh, that. I’m an abandoned orphan,... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 32](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-32/): “The — the Duchess?” “That’s what I’m saying. The Duke of Hardeion is absolutely furious — they say he’s tearing the entire Empire apart looking for her.” “What? You mean all of this is because of — because of Duke Hardeion?” “Every lord in the Empire is trembling right now. Terrified that the Duchess might have slipped into their territory. None of them want to be branded as someone who sheltered a runaway wife. That’s how you end up on the wrong end of Duke Hardeion’s wrath.” “Good heavens… all that commotion over one woman…” “Angelic beauty and a heart... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 31](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-31/): “Oh! It’s come back to me! Two days before the wedding, I think — my sister and Emily suddenly showed up at our estate and made off with everything of mine — every single valuable and all the money in my safe! Twenty years’ worth of savings, absolutely everything, down to the last item! My sister even beat me with some strange cane! And Emily seemed to be in on it with some pawnbroker called Rainbow — something — they were going to leave my things with him! After that — except for the wedding day itself — I haven’t... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 30](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-30/): Four o’clock in the morning. I am standing in front of a crumbling inn. The proprietor had deposited us here along with our luggage and then departed at a sprint, as though something were chasing him. “Refer to the itinerary carefully! Take care of yourselves!” “Proprietor! You’re not coming with us?” “The pursuit — there’s nothing to be done! Two days from now, we meet in the east!” “Surely the noble package should include more than this? What kind of noble package is this!” “The pursuit — there’s nothing to be done! Emily, keep a close eye on that troublemaker!”... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 29](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-29/): “Right there. Go in through the back entrance.” “What? You mean you dug the tunnel inside the annex building?” “Yes. The security around the estate is so airtight, there wasn’t a suitable spot outdoors.” “Oh. So you put it inside the building.” “Yes. The front entrance of the annex sees too much foot traffic, so I chose the underground storage room near the back entrance.” “Let’s go!” We slipped in through the back door. Fortunately, the annex was quiet. It seemed everyone had gone to the main building to witness the wedding night firsthand. The stairway down to the cellar... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 28](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-28/): “Ngh — urgh!” I wriggled and squirmed, working at the wedge. Completely useless. My backside was jammed tight between the thick branches. “Damn it all.” If only there were something to grip. But this smooth stone wall offered nothing. No matter. I was a tree-climbing expert. —Snick! Having confirmed my backside was thoroughly stuck, I cut the rope with the knife. Then I tied what remained of the rope to the offending branch. “Right. Let’s go.” I pulled the branch-tied rope taut, drew a breath, wrenched my backside free, and pushed off. —Slide, thud. Landed. I cut the rope quickly.... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 27](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-27/): I had been brought to the bridal chamber. The wedding night was before me. “Emily. In about two hours, His Grace will enter the bridal chamber.” “Yes, my lady.” I was sitting modestly on the edge of the bed in my wedding gown. Maintaining the perfect posture of a bride awaiting her wedding night, I was quietly eavesdropping on the conversation between the two of them. “Here, Emily. Take this.” Housekeeper Mary presented Emily with a black box. At its centre, bordered in gold, was the crest of the Hardeion family. “Inside is a change of clothing and perfumed oil... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 26](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-26/): “Postponing the wedding is a bit out of the question, I think.” “In what way is it ‘a bit out of the question?’*” I was genuinely speechless. Crutches. They wanted me to walk — or rather, hobble — down the wedding aisle on crutches. No matter how obsessed these people were with getting married, were they all in their right minds? I stared at the physician with the eyes of someone who had just encountered an elephant standing in the middle of a city street. The physician scratched his cheek, looking a touch embarrassed. “Well, this old man could die... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 25](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-25/): Emily’s reasoning was sound. I knew how to climb down from trees well enough — but that was a rather different thing from leaping from a building. If I was going to do this, I might as well learn to do it properly. And so I threw myself wholeheartedly into Emily’s breakfall training. “Let’s treat the bed as if it’s the window ledge.” “Bed as window ledge, understood!” I imagined the bed was the terrace railing and rolled and jumped from it dozens of times. Each time, Emily corrected my form with careful precision. “Like this. Release the tension in... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 24](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-24/): “Oh!” “It opened.” “Incredible! Emily, you’re something else!” I yanked the safe open immediately. “But wait — 4885? That’s a strangely gloomy set of numbers. And oddly familiar.” “You’re right. A peculiar combination, certainly.” But none of that mattered. What mattered right now was emptying the safe. I peered at the gleaming contents with wide, admiring eyes. “Wow. Cash, in stacks! Good lord. And gold bars. How much pocket money has he been getting?” “There’s more here than I expected.” “Let’s take all of it. If we sell everything, we might even be able to pay Emily back the full... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 23](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-23/): I gave a slow, solemn nod at Emily’s whispered confidence. We passed under a peculiar low bridge and walked for about ten more minutes. At last, Emily stopped in front of a shop. [Secret Sexy Beam Lingerie Boutique] “We can buy what we need here.” “Hmm? This is a ladies’ lingerie shop.” “Precisely. Which makes it an excellent place to purchase costume wear.” “…Why would a lingerie shop sell costumes?” Emily glanced sideways and leaned close to my ear. “Shh. Keep your voice down. You said you had a shadow following you.” “Oh! Right! Shhh!” “Let me explain properly once... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 22](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-22/): My bottom received a thorough thrashing. It was entirely my bottom that suffered — all for nothing. He appeared to be a man of many tastes. Not that it hurt at all, of course. Fortunately, Kael seemed to possess a remarkable talent for calibrating his strength. Immediately after, I was forcibly turned over by his hands. He had the audacity to flip me over and apply ointment to my backside. I wriggled and protested. “This is exactly like giving someone a wound and then offering the remedy! Get away from me!” “Sorry. You seemed to be enjoying it so much.”... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 21](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-21/): “I have a gift! Just a moment!” Leaving Kael standing there looking thoroughly put-upon, I dashed to the dresser. —Rattle. Tap! I opened the first drawer and pulled out the handmade coupon book. Then I ran straight back to Kael. I held it out toward him with both hands. “Happy birthday! This is my gift.” “…” Kael engaged the coupon book in a staring contest without speaking. “I meant to give it right after dinner, but I’d lost track of it.” “What is this?” “A coupon.” “A coupon?” “Yes. An Ivelina Brand Handmade Coupon Book. Nothing especially grand — just... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 20](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-20/): [A. The defendant inflicted severe psychological distress upon the plaintiff. The defendant is unfit to be the wife of a nobleman. Accordingly, the defendant naturally has no claim whatsoever to alimony. On the contrary — the defendant is required to pay the plaintiff three million gold in compensation for psychological damages. B. The dissolution of the marriage between plaintiff and defendant is hereby approved.] I had read every word of the ruling with intense concentration. “A wife with those kinds of preferences would certainly send her husband running in sheer terror. This is a precedent with real potential.” I nodded... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 18](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-18/): “…” “And every time it happened, Kael would go absolutely rigid and turn white as a sheet. Oh, that was deeply satisfying. Kael, of all people, making a face like that! Ha ha ha ha!” Hugging my belly as though I were truly pregnant, I laughed and laughed. After a moment, Emily — who had been listening quietly — furrowed her brow just slightly. “Why would you be feeling foetal movement, miss?” “…Hmm?” “You haven’t been pregnant before.” I blinked slowly, my eyes wide. “What. Did I just say something strange again?” “Enormously.” “Oh — am I haunted? What is... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 17](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-17/): I beg your pardon? “What do you think, Doctor?” “It is… admittedly… quite an exceptional rate.” The physician stared at my duck belly with the expression of an explorer who had just discovered an uncharted continent. The two of them spoke with grave solemnity, studying me as though I were a most unusual specimen. “What are her symptoms, Your Grace?” “Her appetite has increased dramatically. She’s been eating as though she hasn’t had a meal in days.” “Oh. And? Any other symptoms?” “As you can see — considerable abdominal protrusion.” Kael tilted his head toward my duck belly. I protested... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 16](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-16/): “Enough, Carlson. Calm yourself.” Thankfully my mother-in-law swiftly caught him by the back of the collar and subdued him with practised ease. I wasn’t entirely sure why he had suddenly started cursing at Kael, but it seemed my father-in-law was also worried about my back. I waved my hands quickly and smiled reassuringly. “It’s nothing serious. I simply overindulged terribly today — my belly is so full my back can barely take it. I ate far too much.” “…I see. You’re not uncomfortable anywhere else?” “Not at all. Perfectly fine!” Only then did the worry clear from my mother-in-law’s face.... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 15](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-15/): I could only hope it wasn’t heart disease. I dismissed the thought and made my voice deliberately flat. “You said you were hungry. Why aren’t you eating?” “I’m too busy looking at you.” “…Tch!” Wait — why was he being so gentle? Had he always been like this? Now that I thought about it, he had been rather kind toward me in his own way. He seems less like a psychopath and more like a genuinely tender man. A tender psychopath. How unsettling. But then, I supposed, a tender psychopath wasn’t entirely impossible. I shook off the strange, fuzzy warmth... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 14](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-14/): With twenty-four hours perpetually feeling not quite enough, every single day was an emergency. We were in a position where every minute, every second, counted. Tonight we needed to review the escape plan and map out the next phase of action. The plan was so thorough and detailed that just reading through it took a full hour. We hadn’t eaten dinner — the two of us made do with rolls of bread a maid had brought. “Reading complete.” We had worked our way through the escape plan the Boss had given us. “We’ll need to go shopping for supplies soon.”... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 13](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-13/): “Oh, there you go again!” I laughed and gave Emily a few light smacks on the arm. “What is there I don’t know about Emily!” “Hmm. Fair point. I may have mentioned it offhandedly at some point.” “Exactly! Little things like that don’t stick in the memory!” We ventured further into the shop. “Miss, what was the budget again?” “Five silver!” “Then what do you think about trying that uncle’s method? All you’d need to buy is a ribbon.” “Hmm.” I crossed my arms and considered it. Ta-da, gift. It was certainly a gift likely to cause panic. But. “Something... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Chapter 12](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-chapter-12/): “I think so, don’t you?” “No — on your wedding night, there will be no shadow assigned to you.” “What? Really? Right now I have a shadow following me around twenty-four hours a day. Is that even possible?” “Of course. Think about it.” I readied myself to think. The Boss leaned slowly toward me, his voice grave and deliberate. “Would I want to share the sight of my woman in her intimate state — with a shadow?” “Oh…?” “Dare they look upon my woman? Upon my woman in such a state?” He was beginning to work himself up. He seemed... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 11](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-11/): I leapt to my feet and shot back. “Why?!” “You’re the Duke of Hardeion’s fiancée!” “That’s true, but — what does that have to do with anything? You said you’d help!” I was genuinely indignant. To throw a client out the moment she wrote her name — the sheer nerve. “I am not taking your commission!” “But why?!” “Because you are the fiancée of the Duke of Hardeion!” “What kind of establishment turns away clients based on who they’re engaged to?” “Of course it does. I was an Imperial Intelligence Agent!” “What does that have to do with anything!” I... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 10](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-10/): “Here. My card.” The proprietor slid a card across to me. ANGEL CEASAR — Ceasar Ceasar Errand Center The card was spare. A name, centered on dark grey paper. And in the lower right corner, the name of the establishment. “Ah. So that’s where the name comes from.” “Right. It’s a pseudonym, mind you. I prefer not to use my real name in my profession. Old habit.” “I see.” He had told me something I hadn’t asked, with perfect helpfulness. “‘Angel’ is a nickname. My grandmother gave it to me. She used to call me her little angel — fussed... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 9](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-9/): “Three times?! You’ve already had children? Three of them?!” “For heaven’s sake, what is wrong with me. I’m so sorry — please disregard that last statement. I don’t have any children yet.” “Right. In any case — if a wife refuses the wedding night, that constitutes grounds for a divorce lawsuit.” But could I actually refuse the wedding night? In all this time, I had never once managed to successfully refuse anything. …And once the wedding ceremony was over, I would inevitably be taken to the main residence. Where he would only be more insistent than ever. I folded my... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 8](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-8/): A mother is strong. And so I argued back against the Goddess with all the strength I had. “What kind of cruelty is ‘give and take away’! If you were going to do this, you should never have given at all! You allowed me to carry and birth three living, breathing children — and now you speak of judgment, of erasing them from existence! Goddesses shouldn’t behave this way! If I have committed a transgression, then punish me alone — why must innocent people suffer for it? And you put everyone here to sleep against their will as well! How... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 7](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-7/): “…Kael. Are you asleep?” “…” Steady, even breathing settled warm against my ear. “What in the world. You’re actually asleep? Hugo’s reading was that effective?” No answer came. And in the meantime, he was extraordinarily heavy. When the full weight of my husband — solid muscle through and through — settled entirely onto me, I felt rather like the mythological figure condemned to bear the world on his shoulders. “Nngh!” I strained to hold him upright and looked frantically around. Everyone was asleep but me. Then, all at once, every lantern illuminating the garden went out at the same moment.... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 6](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-6/): “Eek! Duke! Duchess!” “Eek! Dorothy! Kate!” I grabbed my dear friends’ hands and bounced up and down with them. “Goodness, the family has grown so much! How many is this now? At this rate you’ll be raising an entire baby army!” “Oh my — is this the youngest? She really is the absolute image of Ivelina.” “And this must be the second? I heard she looks identical to the Duke, and I see it right away. A future beauty of extraordinary caliber!” The three of us tumbled over each other with delight. I gestured toward the children, still occupying one... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 5](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-5/): A strangled sound escaped through my teeth. “…Chloe…” I looked at my youngest daughter and sighed inwardly. I, who had followed a handsome man and ended up reeled in, married, and the mother of three children, felt a deep and personal sense of alarm at Chloe’s cheerful answer. But I was apparently not the only one suffering. Kael’s brow furrowed into an expression of severe displeasure. As the man who knew better than anyone what fate awaited a woman who followed handsome strangers — specifically because of what had happened to his wife — he seemed genuinely troubled by the... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 4](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-4/): “…Hugo. This serious problem you mention wouldn’t happen to be…” “Have a look at this, my lady. Isn’t the angle of this lily petal just slightly off?” Hugo opened his eyes even wider than usual, which was saying something given that the whites were already thoroughly shot through with red. His fingertips were trembling with barely suppressed fury. “…I’m not sure I can tell, honestly…” “Look closely. Something is definitely wrong. In my estimation, forty-five degrees would be the ideal angle. But these lilies are currently sitting at approximately thirty degrees.” “…Isn’t this level fine? I can’t really see much... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 3](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-3/): Shortly after, dozens of male servants began filing in, carrying large, beautifully wrapped gift boxes. I turned to Emily, who stood at the head of the procession directing the servants. “Good heavens. Emily, what is all this?” “These are the birthday gifts for the young ladies — brought by the Count and Countess.” “All of this is from my parents?” “Yes, my lady. The gifts sent by the other noble families are currently being sorted in the main hall. They’re still arriving as we speak, and there are simply too many to fit here in the drawing room.” And that... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 2](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-2/): “Oh! Shouldn’t our little darlings do some kind of talent show later?” “Oh! That’s right! It’s our darlings’ birthday party! This is the perfect opportunity to show the whole world how brilliant they are!” “I agree entirely! But what should they show? There’s no shortage of things to boast about!” “Exactly! Singing? Dancing? Drawing? Oh, they’re wonderful at everything — I can’t possibly choose just one! What do we do!” My parents-in-law’s voices were rising with each exchange. Hm. I suppose it’s finally time for me to step in. I handed Bella over to my husband, rose with great solemnity,... - [FWOEMETAPM Special Side Story: Ivelina, the Runaway Heroine — Part 1](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-special-side-story-ivelina-the-runaway-heroine-part-1/): The trouble began with a game of dominoes. “Oops. I knocked it.” Clatter, clatter, clatter. The youngest had accidentally bumped the dominoes, and in an instant, dozens of them toppled in a sweeping cascade. And so, as it happened nearly every day, the twins’ bickering began. “Dummy.” “I’m not a dummy!” “Then I’ll call you a crybaby.” “I’m not a crybaby either! Waaah!” The youngest burst into tears. She opened her tiny, precious mouth as wide as it could go and wailed with her whole heart. She cried so pitifully that every member of the family gathered in the drawing... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: Three Ways to Seduce Your Husband — Part 11](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-three-ways-to-seduce-your-husband-part-11/): Knock knock. “Master. It’s Emily.” “Come in.” Click. The duke had been working through a backlog of affairs. His return to the study had been considerably delayed—on account of the Enchanting Rabbit. “I’ve sorted the personal correspondence that arrived for the mistress. The handwritten letters from the orphanage and poorhouse children are here as well.” “Thank you. Leave them there.” The duke had a somewhat particular—one might say obsessive—quality about him. He made a point of reviewing every piece of correspondence addressed to his wife before it reached her hands. Not a single letter went unseen by him first. It... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: Three Ways to Seduce Your Husband — Part 10](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-three-ways-to-seduce-your-husband-part-10/): Three men were standing there. My husband in front—and behind him, Father-in-law. And Hugo. “D—dear daughter-in-law is… again…” “My lady…? No… a H—Holly Rabbit…?” Six eyes, grown to the size of saucers, drove straight into my heart. “…Oh.” I fainted on the spot. When I opened my eyes, there was a familiar ceiling above me. I appeared to have been carried to the bedroom, still in full Enchanting Rabbit costume. Brief relief at the familiar ceiling—then I squeezed my eyes shut and pretended to still be asleep. The physician was there. Of course my husband had summoned the physician. “What... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: Three Ways to Seduce Your Husband — Part 9](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-three-ways-to-seduce-your-husband-part-9/): I put the lavender Mushroom Pebble in the basket. “Why that one? It doesn’t seem like something you would need, my lady. Janes follows you around all day.” “The color is too pretty! I want to have one! And the expression is so cute, and it even sparkles!” “Ah. Of course.” “Let me get you one too, Emily! I brought plenty of money just in case!” I selected one Mushroom Pebble of each color and placed them in the basket, one by one. Soft pink, pale yellow—all the pastel shades, made of delicate marble. They were genuinely beautiful. “Oh. That... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: Three Ways to Seduce Your Husband — Part 8](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-three-ways-to-seduce-your-husband-part-8/): The wall that had flattened my nose was my husband. “W—what are you doing over here…” A cold tingle ran down my spine and goosebumps erupted across my skin. Then who had been sitting in the chair, watching my dance…? My neck creaked as I forced my head to turn. “Ha…” “F—Father…” “…My dear daughter-in-law is once again full of fighting spirit, even first thing in the morning.” Father-in-law was somewhere between sitting and standing, shifting awkwardly in his seat. “I—I do beg your pardon. Kael asked me to look over some documents for a moment…” “KYAAH!” I don’t care,... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: Three Ways to Seduce Your Husband — Part 7](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-three-ways-to-seduce-your-husband-part-7/): Emily stood up from her chair. “My lady. Watch closely.” “Yes!” “And when I say ‘Begin!’—would you clap for me on every beat? One clap per second?” “Yes! I’ve got it! Begin!” With the first clap, Emily began to move—fluid limbs swaying into a dance. She kept pace with my rhythm, calling out a low, rhythmic chant. “Toon-toon.” To the steady beat of my clapping, Emily performed something extraordinary: a dance that seemed to blend the flowing movements of a traditional fan dance with the sinuous undulations of a snake charmer’s art. “Toon-toon.” Woven throughout were sharp, precise joint movements—angular... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: Three Ways to Seduce Your Husband — Part 6](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-three-ways-to-seduce-your-husband-part-6/): I was crouched in the flower bed outside the main building, sniffling. I had wanted to flee the manor entirely, but my legs had given out the moment I stepped through the front door, and I had simply crumpled there. Damn. “Sniff. Sob…” I wiped at the tears that kept welling up. “Ivelina~. What are you doing. Come play.” My husband had gone so far as to open the window to taunt me. Of all the flower beds in the manor, I had collapsed directly below the one that lined up straight with his study window. He was leaning against... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: Three Ways to Seduce Your Husband — Part 5](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-three-ways-to-seduce-your-husband-part-5/): After the Crown Prince and Crown Princess left, I spent several days in earnest contemplation. “Mmhm. Kai wants a baby bwuther! A sissuuh would be nice too! As a birthday present, please!” Kai wanted a sibling. Honestly, seeing the twin princesses had given me something to think about as well. Watching the two of them squabble like the best of friends, I couldn’t help noticing how Kai had sat quietly apart—looking a little lonely. Well. Love them or hate them, siblings are worth having. I could speak from experience on that front. There had been plenty of moments when I... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: Three Ways to Seduce Your Husband — Part 4](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-three-ways-to-seduce-your-husband-part-4/): ‘Kai Hardeion, twelve months old.’ The Crown Prince and Crown Princess came again. True to Reina’s word, it was quite soon. This time, the twin princesses came along. “I’m sorry, Ivelina! His face kept floating in front of me! And Kai’s birthday is coming up anyway—” “You’re so welcome! Oh! Hello, your little highnesses!” Two lovely girls—each a perfect blend of Reina and Adrian—looked up at me with wide, attentive eyes. I bent my knees and crouched down to their level. “You’ll be three years old this year, yes? I’m the Duchess of Hardeion—Ivelina Hardeion.” The two princesses, who had... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: Three Ways to Seduce Your Husband — Part 3](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-three-ways-to-seduce-your-husband-part-3/): I jolted awake, drenched in sweat. “Sleep well?” The first thing I saw was my husband’s face, directly across from mine. “‘Oh!'” Still rattled from being thoroughly tormented in my dream, I recoiled. My husband pulled my waist firmly toward him and pressed a deep kiss to my forehead. He asked quietly: “What on earth were you dreaming about? Drooling all over yourself. Mouth wide open.” Apparently it wasn’t cold sweat—I had been drooling. I wiped my mouth quickly on my sleeve and shook my head hard. Then I drew myself close and burrowed into his chest. “It—it wasn’t delicious... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: Three Ways to Seduce Your Husband — Part 2](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-three-ways-to-seduce-your-husband-part-2/): He was the one who threw himself at me every single time—and then he had the nerve to issue me a formal prohibition. As if I had been the one doing the throwing. But at his announcement, I turned away so he wouldn’t see me smile. ‘So I can finally sleep in peace.’ Being with my husband was lovely—but honestly, the frequency had been genuinely excessive. He wasn’t exactly gentle about it either. There were moments when it felt less like affection and more like an ordeal. The next morning. Emily, perceptive as ever, picked up on it immediately. “My... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: Three Ways to Seduce Your Husband — Part 1](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-three-ways-to-seduce-your-husband-part-1/): ‘Kai Hardeion, three months old.’ “My lady. Slowly, please.” ‘Thud thud thud thud.’ Emily’s voice was swallowed by the sound of my footsteps. I was flying down the corridor like the anchor runner in a relay race. “My— lady—!” “Hihihi! I’m fine! The physician said moderate exercise is perfectly all right!” “This is ‘not’ moderate—!” Emily’s voice faded behind me as she called after me with her hands cupped around her mouth. I kept running, grinning to myself. “I’m fiiiine! I just want to see my baby so badly! I have to get my fill while my husband’s away!” Three... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 17](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-17/): Epilogue “Good heavens! Your Grace!” Alex Hudson, head of the Black Guild, grabbed the chin of his mask and tossed it aside in one fluid motion. His true face was revealed—red hair, green eyes. The Duke of Hardeion was the only person Alex showed his real face to. “How long has it been?” “Three years.” The duke’s answer was brief. The two had been upperclassman and underclassman at the academy. Alex had idolized him. Even back then, the duke had smoked cigars with an air of absolute self-possession—a habit he had since given up for Ivelina’s sake—and had maintained the... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 16](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-16/): Ivelina lurched backward and put distance between them. “I—actually I don’t really ‘know’ what disreputable ‘means!’ I was just pretending for a minute, and anyway, you’ve probably been hunting and you must be tired, and I was actually just about to slip out quietly, so I think I’d better be on my way now!” She scrambled off the bed and crawled with great purpose toward the edge. Her bare legs, kicking and exposed, caught the light. Every movement was inadvertently indecent. ‘She really did plan all of this deliberately.’ The duke smiled, pleasantly, and caught one slim ankle. “Where are... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 15](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-15/): The duke concluded that Ivelina was genuinely trying to protect her lover. She was soft-hearted enough to shield even a degenerate like that. “Ah, right. Your ‘dad’s.'” “Ha—yes.” Ivelina laughed, embarrassed, and scratched the back of her head. “And you expect me to believe that?” “Pardon?” “You’d better be honest with me. Before I find him and tear him apart.” “‘What?!'” Something sharp and unmistakable lit in the duke’s eyes. He pressed forward, closing the distance. Then Ivelina understood—his fury wasn’t ‘I don’t want a woman who’s been with someone else.’ It was ‘you dare wear another man’s shirt.’ She... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 14](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-14/): On the day in question, when Janes’s urgent dispatch arrived, the duke was at the shooting range. He was, therefore, unaware of Ivelina’s early arrival. Three hours later. When the duke reached the front of the main building, Hugo was there, shifting from foot to foot like a dog in desperate need of a walk. “Y—Your Grace!” Hugo spotted him and jogged over, breathless. “You’re so late! Miss Ivelina has been waiting for some time! She’s been in your bedroom for the past two hours! And—this! Janes’s urgent dispatch arrived several hours ago!” The duke unfolded it immediately and scanned... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 13](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-13/): The duke devoted those two days to the careful and thorough tending of his baby rabbit. He refused to let her feet touch the floor. He fed her continuously and well, and made a point of periodically checking whether she was gaining weight—running his broad hands over her in frank assessment. He had her entirely to himself. He had no desire to be separated from her for even a moment, so he conducted his work and took all his meals in the bedroom as well. There was a particular pleasure in watching the baby rabbit starttle every time she caught... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 12](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-12/): The physician arrived at a dead sprint, his necktie flying. “Your Grace! Is the young lady all right? I was told she injured her ankle?” “No. The ankle will be fine.” “Pardon?” “She’s in the middle of acting out a severe sprain. I’ll need you to play along convincingly.” “I—I beg your pardon?” The duke gave the physician a brief account of the situation. The ankle in question was almost certainly uninjured, but as Ivelina had apparently been sweating in a state of sustained anxiety all day, he was to select some generally beneficial medicinal herbs and have them prepared.... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 11](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-11/): Ivelina ate from his hand like a small cat, accepting each morsel with cheerful, efficient little bites. She had been swinging her short legs and concentrating earnestly on her food, but at some point she tilted her head and cast a sidelong look at him. Her lips moved. “Um… aren’t you going to eat, Kael?” Every time Ivelina showed him this particular side of herself, the duke felt he might die from how endearing it was. He wanted to sink his teeth into those pleasantly round, white cheeks and chew slowly. He was in the grip of severe withdrawal symptoms—but... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 10](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-10/): The duke laughed quietly to himself. ‘She was planning to find fault with the menu.’ Already having seen through the strategy, he watched Ivelina with easy composure. “I didn’t know what you liked.” “…” “So I had everything prepared.” “Oh… how nice…” Ivelina picked up her fork and knife with a look of flat displeasure. She appeared to size up the dishes—then almost immediately made the face of a baby rabbit whose food had been taken away. Every single item on the table was exactly what she loved. She bit down on her lower lip and lifted her fork with... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 9](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-9/): The baby rabbit’s cuteness had reached a lethal dose. So the duke ate her every time she came. As a result, the baby rabbit went home in a wrecked state every single day. But there was a problem. Ivelina had been getting thinner. The duke—who was, by daily habit, extremely well-acquainted with every square inch of her body—could not possibly have missed the change. So he fed her. Carefully. And still, she would not gain weight. “Hmm.” He needed to identify the cause. The loss of even a single gram from his small and precious baby rabbit was unacceptable. He... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 8](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-8/): A dull, heavy heat had settled in his abdomen. The duke pressed his brow together hard and raked his hand through his hair. He sat up and pushed the covers aside. The situation was not good. ‘Damn.’ He chewed the word internally and headed for the bathroom. Under water cold enough to raise the skin, he stood and thought. ‘Insufferable.’ He was inexplicably furious at Ivelina. ‘Just the one would have been enough. That she has to be cute ‘and’ indecent on top of it.’ ‘Tch.’ Utterly shameless baby rabbit. The duke muttered criticisms at Ivelina under his breath and... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 7](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-7/): “When you go out or attend to business outside the manor—you’ll be moving between locations, yes? So every time you go somewhere, I’d like to know where it was. And if you meet anyone, their name. Things like that—the basic information about who you were with—once a day please!” “…” “And one more thing. When you’re getting to know someone, it’s natural to wonder what they eat, isn’t it? That’s part of a person’s day, after all. So I’d like you to tell me what you had for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day—whether it was good—a brief impression or... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 6](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-6/): The duke was furious. This impudent baby rabbit. She had clung to him with apparent delight, and now she was screaming directly in his face. “Do I look like some kind of monster? That’s rather hurtful.” Ivelina had both hands clapped over her mouth, eyes wide with alarm. The rabbit who had devoured him and run was just as adorable while alarmed as at any other time. Which could only mean she knew she was cute when startled and was doing this on purpose. ‘Impudent thing.’ So the duke had no intention of going easy on her. “H—how do you…... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 5](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-5/): The next morning. The duke had been left behind, alone. He had been sleeping deeply with the warm little rabbit tucked against his chest—and woke only after she had gone completely. “…” ‘Tap. Tap.’ His large hand moved across the empty sheet, searching, wandering. The warmth was gone. His fingers grew more and more restless. The futility of his own hand searching for a woman who had already left—it was a loneliness more desolate than he had words for. He pushed up his heavy lashes. Through the haze of half-sleep, he saw nothing but an empty bed. He sat up... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 4](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-4/): “‘Ooph!'” Ivelina stumbled forward and knocked her forehead into the wall. ‘Thud!’ “‘Eugh!'” Her forehead turned pink. “Ah. Are you all right?” He had pushed her, and then he worried about her. He turned her this way and that to inspect, even though he was the one who had done it. Ivelina dazedly spun her head in slow circles. “…The world is going round and round… ’round and round’…” “Of course the world is spinning. You’re spinning your head.” He said something perfectly logical, then reached out and pressed his index finger into her cheek. The soft, cream-cheese consistency of... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 3](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-3/): “That’s ‘insane!'” “‘Oh my goodness!'” “Hermes! Did you just—a hotel—what does that ‘mean’—” “‘Wow.’ History is being—is being ‘written’—tonight—” “This is—’good heavens’—does this mean I’m going to see a grandnephew after all—!” The Empress and Hermes clasped hands and bounced on the spot. Even Popo joined in, leaping up and down as though in solidarity with the general celebration. Having discreetly followed the Hardeion carriage, they had watched from a distance as both figures disappeared into the hotel together. When the last trace of them had vanished inside, the Empress clasped her hands and looked up. “Sister… your son is... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 2](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-2/): The Empress had pulled a hooded robe over her head and was crunching through a bag of corn puffs. She and her shadow Hermes were crouched together in the shrubbery, both of them watching her nephew with great concentration. “Goodness, Your Majesty. The duke is ‘terrifying’. I nearly wet myself just now.” “‘Heh heh’—of course he is. Our Kael is the finest. Look at that presence. How could anyone stand against it without losing bodily function.” The Empress flared her nostrils with evident pride and crunched another corn puff. Hermes nodded in agreement and cast a glance at the retreating... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: That Man's Story — Part 1](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-that-man-s-story-part-1/): Kael Hardeion, Duke of Hardeion. Twenty-six years old. Unmarried. He was, moreover, one of only three dukes in the empire—and while the other two were middle-aged men, he was not. The place Kael hated most in the world was high society. He had come to this conclusion at the age of thirteen, attending a gala with his parents. High society was nothing more than a mating ground for the well-dressed. ‘Marriage’, they called it. At the end of it all, the purpose was to find a suitable match—weigh the conditions, strike the deal, and produce offspring through the basest of... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: My Husband Won't Stop Tormenting Me — Part 17](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-my-husband-won-t-stop-tormenting-me-part-17/): I would be sucked and kissed until I was too exhausted to stay conscious, and when I woke, it would start again. This was the rhythm of every single day. So everyone assumed I was simply napping for half the afternoon. I had imagined that once the pregnancy was confirmed, I would finally be allowed to sleep in peace until the birth. That was a delusion entirely my own. ‘…It’s so unfair. And I can’t even tell anyone.’ Unless he was in his study attending to estate business, my husband never left my side. He had taken over everything—feeding me... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: My Husband Won't Stop Tormenting Me — Part 16](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-my-husband-won-t-stop-tormenting-me-part-16/): “I’m going to be a grandmother! My darling girl, you’ve done so well!” “I knew it! Of course! No wonder she’s been eating nothing but strawberries all day long!” The in-laws had come crashing through the door and were exclaiming in continuous waves, taking hold of Ivelina’s hands and pulling her into their arms before she’d had time to process anything. Ivelina, now wrapped in the Dowager Duchess’s embrace, could only sit there with rigid posture and rapidly blinking eyes. The physician, moved beyond all composure, removed his monocle and pressed it against his damp eyes. “‘Sniff’… I must admit—after... - [FWOEMETAPM Bonus Chapter: My Husband Won't Stop Tormenting Me — Part 15](https://noveostories.com/fifty-ways-of-escaping-my-engagement-to-a-psychopathic-mastermind/fwoemetapm-bonus-chapter-my-husband-won-t-stop-tormenting-me-part-15/): For approximately the following month, I was put into each of the thirty sets in rotation, morning and night. When at last that endless journey came to its end, we arrived home at the ducal manor. “My lady.” “E—Emily… save me… the ‘hunter’—my husband—he—’hh’—” “I beg your pardon?” The moment I was released from my husband’s arms, I collapsed into Emily’s and lost consciousness. * * * “Poor dear. Did you see the color of her face? White as a sheet. My heart breaks for her.” “Kael, that merciless creature. He’s left his own wife half-dead. 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An easy-to-use dashboard to manage your novels and chapters. *** 💰 Revenue Share: Our monetization model is designed to reward our translators fairly: 60% of ad/view-based and coins... - [Register](https://noveostories.com/register/) - [Login](https://noveostories.com/login/) - [My Profile](https://noveostories.com/profile/): 💎 Your Balances Yours NOVARA Coins 🌟: Your NOVAS Points 💠: Buy Novaras Here  shop  - [About](https://noveostories.com/about/): Welcome to Noveo Stories — a home for readers who crave stories that cross borders and touch hearts. We’re a small but passionate team dedicated to bringing powerful novels from different cultures into English, making sure every word feels alive, and every chapter flows like it was written just for you. Our mission is simple: to connect readers with unforgettable characters, rich worlds, and storytelling that leaves a mark. Here at Noveo, we believe in storytelling with heart. 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Content Ownership & Removal Requests We do not claim ownership over materials owned by third parties. All rights remain with the original creators and publishers.... - [Terms of Service](https://noveostories.com/terms-of-service/): Terms and Conditions for NoveoStories Last Updated: 7/17/2025 Welcome to NoveoStories. By accessing or using our website (https://noveostories.com), you agree to comply with the following Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree with these terms, please do not use the Site. 1. Acceptance of Terms By accessing, browsing, or interacting with any part of the Site, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted these Terms and Conditions in full. 2. Purpose of the Site NoveoStories provides fan-made translations of novels for educational and entertainment purposes. All content is intended for personal, non-commercial use only unless otherwise stated.... - [Privacy Policy](https://noveostories.com/privacy-policy-2/): NoveoStories respects your privacy. This policy outlines the types of information we collect, how we use it, and your rights. 1. Information We Collect a) Information You Provide: b) Information Collected Automatically: c) Cookies & Tracking: We use cookies to enhance user experience, store preferences (e.g., dark mode), and analyze traffic via tools like Google Analytics. You can control cookies through your browser settings. 2. Use of Information We use your data to: 3. Sharing Your Data We do not sell or rent your personal information. We may share data with: 4. Data Retention We keep your data only as... - [Takedown Request](https://noveostories.com/takedown-request/): If you would like us to remove any novels from this site, please fill out the form below:Takedown Request Form - [Latest](https://noveostories.com/latest/): Latest Updates - [Home](https://noveostories.com/home-manga/) - [Novel](https://noveostories.com/novel/): 💎 Your Balances Yours NOVARA Points 🌟: Your NOVAS Coins 💠: ## Products - [200 NOVARES](https://noveostories.com/product/200-novares/): Twice the depth, double the thrill.Ideal for loyal readers who live through every heartbeat, betrayal, and slow-burn romance. - [1000 NOVARAS](https://noveostories.com/product/1000-novaras/): Rule the world of stories.This is the crown jewel. Full freedom to explore, support your favorite creators, and never miss a chapter again. - [700 NOVARES](https://noveostories.com/product/700-novares-30-novas/): Always one step ahead.Get early access, bonus chapters, and exclusive moments before anyone else. - [100 NOVARES](https://noveostories.com/product/100-novares/): Read without limits. For the readers who don’t stop at “next chapter.” Unlock full arcs and unforgettable twists. - [500 NOVARES](https://noveostories.com/product/500-novares-20-novas/): Become a story collector.Stock up on NOVARAS and never pause your journey again. Early unlocks, bonuses, and more await. - [50 NOVARAS](https://noveostories.com/product/50-novares/): Feel every heartbeat, every plot twist.Let the story wrap around you — spend an evening lost between the lines. - [20 NOVARES](https://noveostories.com/product/20-novares/): Every journey begins with a chapter .Step into a new world — just one chapter might be all it takes to fall in love. 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