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

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

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

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

Everyone in the underworld knew Dominion.

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

And this organization was where Ashley now had to survive.

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

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

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

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

“Madam, don’t go!”

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

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

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

***
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"Oh, dear," Shyaan stood before Ashley, smiling. "You are so sweet to bring these souvenirs for me!"


Ashley chuckled. "Auntie, how can I send you off empty-handed?"


"Auntie Shyaan, take care on your way home," Ashley expressed politely. "Thank you for inviting me again to the event and introducing me to people I can learn from. The next time you come here, I'll show you around."


"I'll take you up on that offer next time." Shyaan nodded in satisfaction. "Better yet, if you ever come to my place, I'll show you around. Bring your little boy with you. I'm sure he'll get along with my granddaughter."


Both women chuckled, talking some more before Shyaan boarded. Then Ashley perked up a bit.


"Right, Auntie, once you land, some men from Dominion will be there to welcome you," she said, watching Shyaan's brows knit. Ashley's smile stretched wider as she glanced at the bodyguards standing nearby.


Chapter 119 - Don't You Remember Me?