Chapter 13 Chapter 13 Dorian didn't notice how awful Juliette's expression was. He was too caught up in his own excitement, spinning around and introducing everything. Most of these things were given to him by Luciana. "What's your problem?" Juliette's face darkened, her voice laced with anger. Dorian froze. Before he could react, a servant suddenly announced Luciana's arrival. Now Dorian was annoyed. Of course, Luciana had been keeping tabs on him. The moment he sneaked out of the palace, she came chasing after him. Every time she saw him, it was either nagging him to study harder or forcing him to practice archery and horseback riding. As soon as Luciana stepped in, she saw the courtyard filled with treasures. Some were gifts she'd given Dorian willingly, others he'd begged for. "What's all this?" Luciana smiled, feigning ignorance. To Donovan, her smile was bright and her tone gentle, but to Juliette and Dorian, it reeked of mockery. Juliette spoke first. "Dorian wants to give all this to me." Luciana raised an eyebrow in fake surprise. "Oh?" The moment Dorian saw her, before she even said a word, his temper flared. In his previous life, he hadn't escaped Luciana's control until the day he ascended the throne. If it weren't for Juliette, he wouldn't have wanted to relive this nightmare "Didn't I already give you my homework?" Dorian shouted, unable to hide his disgust Luciana rolled her eyes and handed the stack of useless papers back to him. "I told you, don't bother sending it anymore. If you hate me checking your work, fine-I won't" Dorian snatched it back, skeptical. He didn't believe she'd let him off so easily. Last time she said she wouldn't check, it was just another one of her schemes. Afraid she'd pull something, Dorian had deliberately turned in his homework first before coming to see Juliette. Yet here she was, still chasing him down. "You better mean it. Don't go crying to Mother later! Dorian spat, laying down the ultimatum. Luciana exhaled heavily. I won't meddle with you anymore." Her gaze returned to the pile of treasures, immediately locking onto the coral "You begged me to ask Grandfather for this, just so you could give it to your sister?" Dorian's face flushed red. He'd been so focused on what juliette liked that he forgot Luciana was the one who got it for him. Getting caught regifting her present was beyond embarrassing. "I don't need this. Take it back. Juliette said coldly, thinking Dorian was ridiculous, Seemg her getting angry. Dorian panicked. He pointed at Luciana, questioning, "What's your deal? Once you give me something, it's mine. Even if Lthrow it away, it's none of your business." Taciana stayed silent, blinking innocently at Juliette Jubette took a deep breath, even more furious. "What? He didn't want it anymore, so he was dumping it on me?' Only then did Dorian realize his mistake. Frantically hopping in place, he tried to explain to Juliette while demanding answers from "What I mean is, if you don't want my gifts anymore, return them all to me. Luciana's expression was calm, dead serious 1/2 c Chapter 13 Hearing this, Dorian was so angry b he burst out s sneering, To make me obey, you'd actually think of such a method? Fine, take it back if you want, but don't regret it later. If you send me stuff in the palace again, I won't accept it!" Luciana looked disgusted. 'Am I some kind of pushover? Why wouldn't I keep good stuff for myself, but begging him to take it?' 2/2 In "Cougar and Cub" by CrushReel, a touching tale unfolds where the protagonist juggles her career and motherhood with grace. Upon receiving a promotion, envy lurks among her friends, leading to a deceitful scheme against her. Amidst this turmoil, a man inadvertently eavesdrops on their nefarious plan. As events unravel, the heroine emerges as a savior for the man entangled in unexpected trouble. This romance novel intricately weaves themes of ambition, loyalty, and betrayal into its modern setting. The protagonist's unwavering dedication to both her professional life and her child showcases her resilience in the face of adversity. Set against the backdrop of a grand mansion, the story delves deep into hidden emotions and intricate relationships, making it a captivating read for fans of sweet romance. What sets "Cougar and Cub" apart is its ability to blend contemporary elements with timeless romantic tropes. The author masterfully crafts a narrative that resonates with readers seeking a modern love story intertwined with moments of vulnerability and strength. Available to read at CrushReel, this ongoing saga promises an immersive experience that transcends traditional romance narratives.