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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"Do you want to come with us?" Young Isabella stood in front of a skinny little girl, smiling sweetly. "Papa promised to rent an entire amusement park for my birthday. Do you want to go?"


She didn't answer immediately, but the longing in her eyes was obvious.


"Yes!" Isabella nodded excitedly. "There are so many rides, games, and shows. You can spend the whole day there!"


She continued rambling while twirling one of her pigtails.


Like any child, Ashley listened attentively.


Her eyes sparkled as she imagined what an amusement park would look like.


But despite wanting it with all her heart, Ashley reluctantly shook her head.


"I can't..." she whispered. "I have chores."


"Fine!" Isabella huffed, crossing her arms.


She had already learned that wanting things too much only made them hurt more.


Chapter 367 - Pink Ring