Author: Momo Chan

When Riverbend Industries collapsed, the entire social elite of New York City mocked me, the long-lost heiress, for choosing the wrong man. They waited, eager to see us reduced to beggars. At that time, penniless, he lay beneath a bridge, his face etched with despair. “Leave me, Amelia. I have nothing left.” I paused for a second. “…Don’t be so quick to discount yourself. You can at least drag your lame leg to deliver takeout and support me.” He pushed himself up. “You’re right.” Actually, I was poorer than him. The system had bound me as Declan Gray’s exclusive trophy wife, incapable of doing anything else. I was tied to the system; my only source of income was Declan. If he didn’t support me, I would literally starve. His ‘one that got away’—Liana—and my adopted brother, Alex, had stormed into my apartment, clearing out every single thing, leaving not even a cent in my digital wallet. Just as we were at our wits’ end, a voice echoed in my mind: “The Vicious Ex-Girlfriend System has activated! Host, you will receive cash rewards for tormenting the male lead!” “Current Mission: Step on his chest and call him useless! Reward: Fifty thousand dollars!” My eyes lit up. I looked at the dejected Declan. “Big brother! The system’s finally alive! It wants me to torment you, and then we’ll have money!” 1 Yes, I knew I was the vicious female antagonist of this story, and the real heiress of the Sterling family, swapped at birth. The fake heiress was the protagonist. Not only did my entire adoptive family adore her, but she was also the darling of all the powerful figures in New York. When I was brought back to my birth family, they did nothing but humiliate me, never spending a dime on me. Bound by the system, I was forbidden from doing business, earning money outside of the male lead, or even saving it. My sole purpose was to be his trophy wife. Everything was set for me to humiliate and provoke him after his downfall, driving him to win back the protagonist. Their eventual reunion would be a “broken mirror made whole,” and I, the antagonist, would be tormented to death as retribution for the protagonist’s “humiliation.” The system had promised that if I completed all the missions, I would gain a chance to survive. Finally, this day had come. Declan, after hearing my words, didn’t stir. “Have you lost your mind too?” I tugged at his sleeve. “Brother, just play along, okay?” I always knew that my character, the vicious antagonist, was quite attractive. Declan had been incredibly doting on me over the years, even though the story established his true love was my fake heiress sister. But it didn’t matter. The system initially told me: complete the plot, and I’ll be free to return to my original world with a one hundred million dollar reward! So, for all these years, I’d contentedly played the role of the perfect trophy wife, just waiting for this day. Declan reached out and stroked my head. “You’re right. I can’t fall apart. I still have to take care of you.” He endured the pain of his broken leg—a result of his half-brother’s thugs—and struggled to get up. “Declan, I’m serious!” I grabbed his hand. “I really am bound to a ‘Vicious Ex-Girlfriend System.’ Can you please cooperate with me? We can milk the system for money, and then we can fix your leg!” Declan had been good to me all these years, both in life and in bed. He was an excellent lover, and once, a brilliant CEO. Sterling Corporation had reached unprecedented heights under his leadership. If not for the betrayal of his family and board members, he wouldn’t have fallen so low. He’d founded numerous children’s charities and ensured girls in impoverished areas had access to education. So, when the system bound me, I decided not to truly harm him. I planned to tell him everything and just have him cooperate. After all, the system only cared about what I did, not my intentions. Declan picked up a wooden stick to support himself. “Audrey Reed, when I earn enough money, I’ll definitely take you to a doctor.” I… He limped towards the exit of the underpass. I quickly followed. “Declan Gray! Don’t make me get rough…” Before I could finish, several figures descended the steps. “Well, well, well, my dear sister has been hiding here!” Liana Sterling, the fake heiress, stepped down, flanked by my biological parents and brother, and Declan’s half-brother. I quickly helped Declan. He’d just had his leg broken by over thirty men for exchanging a few words with his brother. Liana looked at Declan’s disheveled state, her face a mask of heartbreak. “Declan, you’ve disappointed me so much. I only went abroad, I wasn’t dead. Why did you find her to replace me? You knew it was because of her that I left all those years ago! I just want you to taste what it’s like to lose everything!” I rubbed my temples. Right. Because of this misunderstanding, the male and female leads would torment each other, then eventually forgive each other. That was the plot. But Declan merely glanced at her. “Who said she’s your substitute?” My headache worsened. In the original story, these two were both incredibly stubborn. The male lead acted as if he had no tact, always picking fights with the female lead. I looked at the bodyguards on the bank, worried they’d break Declan’s other leg. I forced a smile at Liana. “Miss Sterling, he’s already in this state. Why don’t we… just let it go?” Liana glared at me. “When we’re talking, do you have the right to interrupt?!” The words barely left her mouth when I raised my hand and slapped her. What the hell! System, are you controlling me?! I’m such a gentle person, how could I hit someone?! Looking at her rapidly swelling face, I quickly explained, “Miss Sterling, I swear I didn’t mean to hit you… do you believe me?” Declan looked at me, his eyes full of tenderness, as if saying, She’s truly lost her mind. I need to work harder delivering takeout to pay for her treatment. Liana’s eyes welled with tears. “Mom, Dad! Sister actually did this to me…” “Wait!” I cut her off. “Miss Sterling, mind your titles. The day I came home, because you threatened to kill yourself, they disowned me. None of you acknowledge me, so I’m not your sister. Alright, carry on—but watch your language, please.” Liana… Declan gently patted my back. “It’s okay. You still have me. I’ll collect soda cans to support you.” I nodded. “Actually, plastic water bottles are worth more. The PET can even be turned into clothes.” “Is that so? I’ve learned something new.” He looked around. “There are quite a few around here. Even more near the stadium.” “You’re experienced.” I genuinely praised him. My birth mother, Serena Sterling, looked at us, trembling with rage. “Audrey Reed! Look at yourself! What kind of behavior is this?!” “Excuse me, ma’am, who are you? What right do you have to lecture me?” I maintained my smile. Serena clenched her fists. “I gave birth to you!” “No, no, I wasn’t. The day I left the Sterling mansion, you said you never had me. So, we have no connection.” Julian Sterling’s old face also darkened. “Audrey Reed! From today on, you break up with Declan Gray. I’ll give you a thousand dollars a month, and you live your own life!” “You’re putting on airs, Mr. Sterling.” I chuckled. “And who are you to me?” The Sterling brothers behind them looked like they wanted to speak, but I pointed at them directly. “You’d best shut up. We have nothing to lose!” I pulled a “gun” from my canvas bag. “Worst case scenario, we all die together!” Everyone recoiled in fear, terrified I’d actually shoot. “Fine, fine! Audrey Reed, you can go live under a bridge with Declan Gray!” “Audrey Reed, you are forbidden from using the Sterling name for anything ever again!” “Audrey Reed, our only sister is Liana! If you die out there, it has nothing to do with the Sterling family!” … They retreated far away, even the bodyguards encircling them. I flicked open the gun, a small flame sputtering out. “Hmph, it’s just a lighter. And you’re already scared?” Their faces turned various shades of green and white. Declan, leaning on his wooden stick, whispered, “I’ll buy you a real one later.” I patted his shoulder. “We don’t do illegal things, even if you were a former CEO.” “Audrey Reed!!” Liana gritted her teeth. “You guys, go strip her clothes off!” The bodyguards’ eyes widened. “Miss Sterling, violating a woman’s consent is illegal. That’s outside our job description.” Liana grew even angrier. “I’ll pay you more!” Bodyguard: “That’s even more impossible. We’re assigned by the company. Taking private payments will affect our performance bonuses. Don’t get us in trouble.” I shook my head. “It’s 2026. Even the richest heirs in New York get jailed for breaking the law. Don’t make it hard on these working people. Declan, let’s go somewhere else to continue what we were doing. Ignore these lunatics.” Declan nodded. It was time to find a cleaner bridge. This one was too dusty with all the traffic. “Big brother.” Alex Gray, who had been silent, suddenly spoke, his sinister face devoid of emotion. “Little brother left you alive. You should cherish it, big brother.” I looked at him. In the original novel, he loved Liana unrequitedly and constantly targeted Declan. Later, I cooperated with him, and after my death… he was the one who collected my body. Eventually, realizing he could never have Liana, he was sent abroad, living out his days in depression with endless money. Honestly, I suspected the author was a bit of a simp. Why did I, the vicious antagonist, have to die horribly, while the vicious male antagonist got to enjoy wealth and luxury for half his life? And depressed?! With endless money, no classes, no work, you’re depressed about what?! If you don’t know how to live a good life, give it to me! 2 Alex watched Declan’s still indifferent expression, a flicker of murderous intent crossing his eyes. He extended a hand to Liana, his voice calm. “Liana, it’s time to go. When we get engaged, we’ll invite big brother and his girlfriend.” Liana stared intently at Declan, waiting for him to break down, regret, and weep. Unfortunately, nothing. His face remained distant, as if everything before him had nothing to do with him. Alex suddenly gripped Liana’s hand tighter. Could it be that my brother no longer liked Liana? Did he like… Audrey Reed?! “Audrey Reed.” Alex suddenly turned his gaze to me. I looked at him too. What, was the vicious male antagonist going to team up with the vicious female antagonist? “Are you interested,” a slight curve played on his lips, “in being my woman? I can keep you outside of everything, and money, you can spend as you please.” Declan’s face finally changed. He looked up at Alex, his eyes incredibly dark and dangerous. I scoffed. “Who needs your money? I only want my darling husband’s~” As I said it, I hugged Declan’s arm, but internally, I was crying hysterically. This damn setup! Except for the money Declan gave me, I couldn’t spend a single cent from anyone else. If I took Alex’s money, I’d be in the hospital the next second, and that money could only be used for medical bills. Who cares about that?! Declan’s tense expression visibly relaxed. He put his arm around my waist, his voice low. “Let’s go.” Liana, hearing Alex’s words and seeing Declan’s complete indifference to her reaction, trembled with rage. She pointed at me, her voice shrill. “Audrey Reed! You only cared about Declan’s money, didn’t you? You don’t love him at all! Now that he has nothing, you’ll eventually find a richer man. Stop lying to him!” I… She knew me so well. Truly, we were born on the same day. But I showed no outward reaction. Instead, my eyes reddened, and with tears welling, I looked at her. “Miss Sterling, how could you say such a thing? My feelings for Declan are genuine… I will never leave him in this lifetime. Even if we have to collect plastic bottles together, I’ll be by his side!” He collects, I’ll sit in a pedicab scrolling through TikTok, waiting for him. Declan squeezed my hand. He looked at me with deep eyes, as if saying: So she truly loves me this much. Ignoring the gazes behind us, we leaned on each other, slowly walking out of their sight. 3 Liana trembled with rage, suddenly turning to glare at Alex. “Didn’t you say you loved me? Why would you say such things to Audrey Reed?!” Alex brushed imaginary dust from his sleeve, his tone light and airy. “I suddenly found it more interesting to fight Declan for things. Whoever he loves, I’ll fight for.” He glanced at Liana, a half-smile on his face. “I thought he loved you.” Liana’s face instantly paled, then flushed scarlet. The Sterling family quickly gathered to comfort her. “Liana, how could she compare to you? Those two will starve on the streets eventually!” “Exactly. Sterling Corp has blacklisted them across all industries. They won’t find work. A rich boy like Declan, can he really stoop to collecting bottles?” “Audrey Reed will soon come back begging us… Their little romance won’t last long. She’s not used to living in poverty.” … Liana buried her face in Serena’s arms, her voice choked with tears. “Mom, if my sister really comes back… please don’t send her away. Just let her stay. Otherwise, if she’s out there, selling herself to make a living, it’ll be the Sterling family’s disgrace.” Serena hugged her tightly, her heart aching. “Okay, okay! If she comes back, I’ll lock her in the attic. I’ll never let her go out and embarrass us again!” Liana subtly curved her lips over Serena’s shoulder. Once Audrey Reed couldn’t bear the hardship and ran back… she could go be with Declan. Keep him outside of everything… He’d loved her for so many years. How could he find a replacement and then truly stop loving her? She refused to believe it.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “391148”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

The day before the wedding, my fiancé’s ex-girlfriend texted him: “If you marry her, I’ll give myself to another man.” He grabbed his car keys, ready to bolt, but his mother, threatening to end her own life, blocked him at the door. Eight years later, his mother passed away. The first thing he did was throw me into the city’s sketchiest club, forcing me to serve drinks. Pinned at a card table, he whispered in my ear, “If you hadn’t been so eager to marry me back then, she wouldn’t have ended up like this. Now, it’s your turn to feel the humiliation she suffered.” He used my younger brother as leverage, keeping me there for six agonizing years. Finally, sick and broken, I was left in a rundown apartment to die. I woke up again, back on the day of the wedding. … “Rovan Miller! If you walk out that door today, I’ll jump from this very spot!” Rovan panicked. He feared his ex, Sasha, truly would give herself to someone else, and he feared his mother, Mrs. Miller, would actually follow through on her threat. He ripped off his tie, his eyes bloodshot as he glared at me. “Chloe Vance, are you really that desperate to get married? Is clinging to me like this fun? You’re pathetic!” Every word was a knife. “You insolent boy!” Mrs. Miller rushed forward, slapping him hard across the face, trembling with fury. “It was me! I begged Chloe to marry you!” Indeed, this marriage was arranged after his mother knelt and pleaded with my family. The Miller family business was facing a liquidity crisis, but this spoiled young master was still oblivious. His mother feared he couldn’t handle hardship. “Mrs. Miller,” I heard my voice, surprisingly calm. “Since Rovan is unwilling, let’s just call it off.” Mrs. Miller’s face went white. My father, Mr. Vance, immediately stood by my side. “Mrs. Miller, a forced marriage brings no happiness. Your son’s heart has already flown away; my daughter would only suffer if she married him.” “No, please don’t!” Mrs. Miller broke out in a sweat, desperately grabbing Rovan. “Apologize to Chloe, now!” Rovan violently shook her off. “Apologize for what?! I’ve told you countless times, I love Sasha! Don’t you understand plain English?!” He turned to my father, his tone mocking. “Mr. Vance, even if you force me to marry her today, I won’t lay a finger on her. Sasha is the only one in my heart. Your daughter will just warm an empty bed for life!” “You bastard!” My father clenched his fist. I stopped him, looking at Rovan’s face, contorted with rage, and suddenly found it all so laughable. “You don’t need to spout threats here. I’m not marrying you. Go on, hurry. Any later, and your Sasha might actually end up with someone else.” “You goddamn—” Rovan raised his hand. Just then, his phone shrilled. It was Sasha calling. He quickly answered, his voice instantly changing. “Sasha! Don’t do anything foolish! Wait for me! I’ve told them everything! I don’t care if Mom disowns me, I only want you!” He hung up, his fingers flying across the keypad, his expression resolute. “Mom, stop forcing me to marry Chloe! Even if I marry her, my heart will always be Sasha’s! My children, in the future, can only be borne by Sasha!” I clapped twice, softly. “Touching, truly touching. Mrs. Miller, you’ve seen it all. Is there still any need for this wedding?” Mrs. Miller frantically wiped her face, forcing a smile that was uglier than a cry. “Chloe, Rovan… he’s just temporarily infatuated! You grew up with him; isn’t your bond deeper than anyone else’s? Besides, he once saved you, remember?” The mention of it pricked my heart like a needle. Yes, in junior year, when I was cornered by thugs in an alley, Rovan rushed in and took a hit, breaking his arm and laying him up for two months. From then on, I felt I owed him. My personality was strong; I couldn’t stand to see him wronged, always protecting him. He, in turn, probably grew accustomed to hiding behind me. He never studied hard, never did anything properly, slowly becoming the kind of person who couldn’t survive without his family. Mrs. Miller continued, “Considering all that, give him another chance…” “I don’t want it!” Rovan abruptly cut her off, his face full of disgust. “Chloe Vance, that’s not gratitude, that’s emotional blackmail! You know how many years you’ve held that over my head!” Mrs. Miller raised her hand to strike him again, but I stopped her. I unclasped a delicate silver chain from my neck, its pendant a small, intricately carved ‘peace lock’. Rovan’s grandmother had personally put it on me before she passed, holding my hand and saying, “Chloe, Rovan is irresponsible. Help Grandma keep an eye on him.” I caressed the cool lock, then gently placed it in Mrs. Miller’s trembling hand. “Mrs. Miller, I’ve always remembered Grandma’s wishes. But this peace lock is meant for the Miller family daughter-in-law. Now, it’s back with its rightful owner.” My voice was calm. The heavy stone that had weighed on my heart for so many years felt as if it had been handed over with that peace lock. Mrs. Miller froze. Just then, Rovan stepped forward, almost snatching the peace lock from his mother’s hand. “It should have been returned long ago! Only Sasha deserves this peace lock! Don’t you feel ashamed, holding onto it for all these years?” In my previous life, he had repeatedly hinted at wanting the peace lock back. I always thought of his grandmother’s dying wish and hadn’t relented. Now, I understood. He had always planned it for Sasha. Before anyone else could react, a commotion erupted at the banquet hall entrance. A girl in a white dress, whose style, at first glance, bore a striking resemblance to a wedding gown, her face streaked with tears, rushed straight towards Rovan. It was Sasha. She had actually found her way here. Rovan’s eyes instantly lit up. He immediately rushed over, took Sasha’s hand, and pulled her in front of his mother. Then, with a thump, he pulled Sasha down to kneel before his mother. “Mom! I’m begging you! I’ve chosen Sasha for life! I can’t live without her! I don’t care about the company, or the family fortune, I just want her!” Sasha also pleaded through tears, “Mrs. Miller, we truly love each other… please, let us be together!” Mrs. Miller clutched her chest, her face turning purple, gasping for breath. I quickly approached, instinctively pulling a rapid-acting heart pill from her pocket and helping her take it. This was a scene I had repeated countless times by her sickbed in my past life. Rovan, seeing this, far from showing concern, instead turned his fury on me, his voice vicious. “Chloe Vance! Stop playing the good girl here! If anything happens to my mom, I swear the Vance family will pay! Now, you, immediately, personally declare that this wedding is off!” I looked at his urgent, contorted face, and suddenly felt an absurd sense of relief. I even smiled faintly. “Rovan Miller,” I said slowly. “I’ve returned the peace lock, and I’ve called off the wedding. What more do you want from me? Do you need me to announce over the hotel’s PA system that I, Chloe Vance, no longer want you, so you can go pursue your true love?” “Cut the act!” Rovan grabbed my arm, his grip so strong my bones ached. “You think saying ‘it’s off’ ends it? Chloe Vance, what hold does your family have over mine? What did your father say to my mother?” I shook off his hand, rubbing my reddened wrist. “You want to know? Go ask your mother.” He immediately turned, leading Sasha, and loudly declared to Mrs. Miller, “Mom! No matter your reasons, I will be with Sasha!” Sasha clutched her stomach tightly, her eyes welling up as she looked at Mrs. Miller. “Mrs. Miller, I’m carrying Rovan’s baby, almost three months along. You can’t… you can’t break up our family of three!” The news was a bombshell. Mrs. Miller stumbled, her face ashen. I supported her, my voice surprisingly calm. “Mrs. Miller, this is good news. Since they already have a child, the wedding is all set. Why not let them go through with it?” Mrs. Miller pointed at Rovan, her finger trembling. “You… you scoundrel! I will never accept such a shameless person as my daughter-in-law! You, you take her and get rid of it!” “Get rid of it?” Rovan reacted as if he’d been stepped on. “Mom! This is your own grandchild! A life! How can you even say that?!” Sasha collapsed to her knees, hugging Mrs. Miller’s legs and weeping. “Mrs. Miller, please! Rovan and I truly love each other, and the baby is innocent! If you let me in, I promise to serve you well and raise the child properly. Please, just give us a chance to live…” Mrs. Miller closed her eyes. When she looked at Sasha again, there was a rare severity in her gaze. “Young lady, you’re young, and you have a long life ahead. Listen to me, this child cannot stay. If you leave now, I can give you a sum of money, enough for you to live well. But if you insist on staying with him,” she glanced at her useless son, a bitter smile gracing her lips, “you might end up with nothing.” Sasha’s eyes flickered, then she cried even harder. “No, Mrs. Miller, I don’t want anything, I just want Rovan! If you don’t agree, I… I’ll take the baby and die!” Mrs. Miller closed her eyes. “Rovan, you choose today. Her, or your mother and this family.” “Mom! Why are you forcing me?! Did the Vance family promise you something? Or do they have something on you? Are you really selling your son like this?!” “Rovan Miller!” My father finally couldn’t take it anymore and spoke, his voice low but carrying the authority of someone long accustomed to power. “Since it’s come to this, I’ll be direct. Our Vance family never relies on anyone to get by. You helped Chloe once, but the troubles Chloe has shielded you from and the messes she’s cleaned up over the years, that debt was repaid long ago, and then some. This wedding, today, is canceled. My daughter is not a tool for your family to solve its problems.” Mrs. Miller’s last bit of strength drained away. She stooped, as if she had aged twenty years in an instant, and waved her hand, her voice as faint as a sigh. “Rovan, this is the path you’ve chosen. Don’t… don’t regret it later.” Rovan and Sasha exchanged a look, pure euphoria washing over them. Rovan excitedly vowed, “Mom! I will never regret it! I’ll change, I promise! I’ll work hard, I’ll support this family, and let you live a good life!” Sasha quickly chimed in, “Mrs. Miller, I’ll be a good daughter-in-law and take care of everything for Rovan!” I looked at their faces, full of blind hope for a future they knew nothing about, and couldn’t help but smile faintly. Support this family? The Miller family company was a hollow shell now. Rovan had no idea how much debt it owed, how many lawsuits it faced, all meticulously hidden by Mrs. Miller. In my previous life, it was only through constant investment from my family and navigating complex relationships that the Miller family barely survived for a few years after the wedding. Once he gained confidence, he believed my family was exploiting him, that I had destroyed his true love, and he repaid Sasha’s debts and humiliations tenfold upon me. The forced drinks, the knives at my throat, the nights I was bargained over like merchandise in dark private rooms… a chill seeped into my very bones. “Dad, Mom,” I turned, no longer looking at the embracing, ill-fated couple, nor at Mrs. Miller’s suddenly ashen, despairing face, “let’s go home.” I was about to leave, arm in arm with my parents, when Rovan rushed a few steps forward, blocking our way. His face showed no apology, but rather an irritable urgency to draw a clear line. “Chloe Vance, since we’ve spoken frankly, let’s stop interacting from now on. Sasha and the baby need peace. What you owe me, what I owe you, let’s call it even today. From now on… let’s not meet unless absolutely necessary.” I looked at his eagerness to distance himself, finding it only ironic. Call it even? What he owed me was far more than a simple debt. In junior year, he got into a feud with a group of thugs from outside school. They threatened to break his leg. I didn’t tell him. Instead, I went to negotiate with them myself, only to be cornered in an abandoned garage, almost losing my life. Someone passing by eventually called the police. I received seven stitches on my forehead, and there’s still a faint scar there, hidden by my bangs. And Sasha. I had looked into her long ago. She worked at several places, specifically targeting young masters like Rovan, who had some family money but were simple-minded. I privately confronted her, telling her to stay away from Rovan. The very next day, I was pushed down a flight of stairs from behind, fracturing my ankle and needing three months to recover. Mrs. Miller and my parents knew all of this, keeping it from him to prevent him from acting impulsively. I always stood in front of him, shielding him from trouble, yet it couldn’t compare to a few months of Sasha’s tears. “Miss Vance,” Sasha also came closer, her tone soft and sweet, but her eyes held a sharp edge. “After today, Rovan and I are family. Let bygones be bygones. I hope you… know how to keep your distance in the future.” I looked at her triumphant demeanor and found it utterly amusing. Did she truly believe the gang leader she had latched onto could pull strings everywhere? The evidence I held in my hand was enough to send her backer scrambling. But today, I still had a use for him. I changed out of my wedding dress into simple casual clothes. As I left the hotel, the “congratulatory gift” I had arranged for them arrived. A man with a buzz cut and tattooed arms leaned against a motorcycle, smoking. He saw me and subtly raised his chin. Behind him were several other rough-looking young men. I didn’t stop, walking straight to my family’s car. The car had just started when I heard a faint commotion from the direction of the hotel banquet hall. Soon, the noise grew louder, even drowning out the original wedding music. Inside the opulent hotel banquet hall, the emcee was reading his congratulatory speech. Suddenly, a side door was violently pushed open. The buzz-cut man, along with his group, strode directly to the stage, snatching the microphone from the emcee’s hand. He scanned the astonished guests below, then grinned, his voice booming through the speakers, reaching every corner: “Excuse me for a few minutes, folks, I’ve got something to say!” “This bastard Miller on stage, he stole my girl, messed with my woman, and now he wants to marry her? Is that how things work in this world? Sasha! Get your ass down here! Whose baby is in your belly? You’re going to tell everyone right here, right now!” The buzz-cut man’s crude voice echoed through the entire banquet hall. All the guests gasped and stood up, the scene instantly descending into chaos. Rovan’s face turned beet red. He instinctively shielded Sasha behind him, shouting with bravado, “Who the hell are you?! Spouting nonsense here! Security! Where’s security?!” The buzz-cut man, known in certain circles as “Big Bro Vic,” sneered, completely ignoring Rovan. He tossed the microphone aside, creating a jarring screech, then advanced, his eyes like a hawk, fixed on Sasha, who was cowering behind Rovan. “Sasha, I’m asking you again, whose baby is in your belly?” Sasha trembled with fear, clutching Rovan’s clothes tightly, crying, “Rovan, I don’t know him… he’s crazy! Make him leave!” “Don’t know me?” Big Bro Vic pulled out his phone, swiped a few times on the screen, then pointed it at the nearest table of guests. “You’re all respectable people, take a look. Is the woman in this photo the lady on stage?” On the phone screen was a selfie of Sasha in revealing sleepwear, intimately nestled in Big Bro Vic’s arms. The background was a messy hotel bed. The angle clearly showed Sasha herself holding the phone. “Whoa—” The crowd erupted. Rovan spun around, staring at Sasha in disbelief. “What… what is this?!” “It’s photoshopped! Rovan, they photoshopped it to frame me!” Sasha cried hysterically. “You’re the only man I’ve ever been with! The baby in my belly is obviously yours! You have to believe me!” “Believe you?” Big Bro Vic sounded like he’d heard the funniest joke. “Alright, then let’s go to the hospital right now for an amniocentesis, and see if the DNA matches up. If you’re innocent, I’ll apologize to you on the spot. If not…” Big Bro Vic’s eyes suddenly turned cold. “I’ll throw you and that little piece of flesh in your belly into the river to feed the fish!” Sasha’s face instantly lost all color. Rovan’s mind was a mess. He looked at the tear-streaked Sasha, then at the menacing Big Bro Vic. His last shred of rationality was consumed by rage. Like a furious bull, he charged at Big Bro Vic. “I’ll kill you, you bastard!” However, a pampered young master like him was no match for Big Bro Vic. Big Bro Vic sidestepped, grabbed Rovan’s arm, twisted it, and then kicked him behind the knee. Rovan fell to the ground with a thump in a humiliating posture, screaming in pain. Big Bro Vic’s thugs immediately swarmed Rovan, punching and kicking him. The scene descended into complete pandemonium. Guests screamed and scattered, tables and chairs toppled, exquisite dishes and drinks spilled everywhere. Mrs. Miller, already on the verge of collapse, saw her son being beaten, her vision went black, and she completely fainted. In the chaos, Sasha, seeing her chance, lifted her dress and tried to slip out a side door. “Trying to run?” Big Bro Vic was quick, grabbing her hair and violently yanking her back, throwing her to the ground. “You rotten bitch! How much money did I spend on you? You took my money, used it to support pretty boys outside, and now you want to make a fool of me?!” He raised his hand, and a resounding slap echoed across Sasha’s face. Just then, the banquet hall doors burst open, and a group of uniformed police officers stormed in, shouting sternly, “Police! Nobody move! Everyone, hands on your head and squat down!” The arrival of the police finally brought a messy end to the farce. Big Bro Vic and his thugs were taken away for public disturbance. Rovan, as one of the parties involved, was invited to “assist with investigations,” his face bruised and swollen. Sasha, suspected of blackmail and extortion, was also taken away. Mrs. Miller was rushed to the hospital by ambulance. The entire Miller family, in a mere hour, became the biggest joke in the city. My father handled the situation with extreme tact. He apologized to the guests present in the name of the victim, promising that the Vance family would compensate for any losses. His words were flawless, both severing ties and preserving the Vance family’s dignity. People looked at my family with pity and relief. “Thank goodness Chloe was decisive and didn’t marry that idiot.” “Yes, the Vance family cut their losses in time and dodged a bullet.” On the way home, the car was silent. My mother held my hand, her eyes still red. My father calmly handled follow-up matters on the phone. “Look into Big Bro Vic’s background, and Sasha’s. Also, inform our media partners that today’s coverage should focus on the Vance family as victims, who promptly canceled the wedding.” The next day, I went to the hospital alone. Mrs. Miller lay on the hospital bed. Overnight, she seemed to have aged a decade and a half, half of her hair turned white. Seeing me, a complex emotion flickered in her cloudy eyes, and she struggled to sit up. “Mrs. Miller, please lie still.” I placed a bouquet of carnations on the bedside table, my tone flat. Her lips trembled, and after a long moment, she let out a hoarse sound. “Chloe… are you… are you here to gloat?” I pulled up a chair and sat down, peeling an apple. The peel came off in a long, continuous strip under my hand. “I just came to see you. And to tell you something. Among the dowry my father had prepared, there was a fifty-million-dollar interest-free loan, intended to be injected into Miller Industries after the wedding, to help you through your difficulties.” Snap, the apple peel broke. Mrs. Miller’s eyes widened suddenly, and her breathing became rapid. “What did you say?” “Miller Industries’ cash flow dried up long ago. Did you really think you could hide this indefinitely?” I cut the peeled apple into small pieces and placed them on a plate. “The bank loans are due soon, and several major project suppliers are pressing for payments. Without the Vance family’s funds, Miller Industries… might not make it through the month.” These words, like sharp knives, accurately pierced Mrs. Miller’s heart. She clutched the bedsheets, trembling all over. She had thought her secret was airtight, never imagining that the Vance family had seen through everything. She had sacrificed me, sacrificed the Vance family’s help, only to gain a deception, a colossal scandal. “No… it can’t be…” she murmured, as if going mad. “Rovan will find a way! He’ll save the company!” I smiled softly, a hint of pity in my laughter. “Him? He’s still at the police station giving a statement. What can he use to save it? Sasha’s illegitimate child?” Mrs. Miller’s psychological defenses completely crumbled. She violently grabbed my hand, her nails almost digging into my flesh. “Chloe! Mrs. Miller is begging you! Please help us! Talk to your father! If you’ll just help, I… I’ll make Rovan kneel and apologize to you! I’ll make him drive that woman away! We’ll go back to how things were, alright?” Slowly, one by one, I peeled her fingers off my hand. I stood up, looking down at her. “Mrs. Miller, it’s too late.” Just then, the hospital room door was rudely pushed open. Several grim-faced men entered, the leader holding a document. “Chairman Miller, we’re from Prime Construction Supplies. We heard your company’s alliance with the Vance family fell through? So, about that payment for last month’s shipment, do you think we could settle it today?” Mrs. Miller’s face instantly turned ashen. I turned and walked out of the hospital room, shutting the pleas and commotion behind me. The first step of my revenge had begun.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “391147”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

I was the wicked fake heiress, raised in a gilded cage since childhood. After I died, my childhood sweetheart, Alexander, publicly released my scandalous photos, calling me a cheap tramp who only knew how to seduce men. Strangers tracked down my family home, shouting that I deserved to die. My parents, eager to distance themselves from my perceived bad karma, burned down the entire mansion overnight. They even fed my ashes to the dogs. Everyone claimed I got what I deserved. Until the day of the true heiress, Evelyn’s, lavish wedding to Alexander. That’s when they received my wedding gift. … Evelyn and Alexander’s grand wedding was packed with guests. My parents sat in the audience, wiping away tears, sniffling, “Evelyn’s finally married, our precious darling.” My spirit drifted in the air, a pang of sorrow in my chest. They used to dote on me just as much. Suddenly, someone called out loudly, “What a perfect match! Lord Alexander and Lady Evelyn, truly made for each other!” “Right? Not like that Imogen. She hogged the Thorne family name for years, but she was always a fraud, a commoner. Even in death, she’s a nuisance.” Evelyn seemed to catch my name. She paused, a faint, scornful smile touching her lips. “Right,” I thought, a bitter self-mockery. “I did usurp her aristocratic life for over two decades. She’s entitled to laugh.” But the next moment, Evelyn looked directly into the livestream camera. “Speaking of which, I actually have Imogen to thank.” “Because she even prepared a wedding gift for us.” “A gift?!” I froze mid-air. “I sent a gift?!” “How could I not know?” Before I could even recall, the audience erupted. “She’s dead, and she’s still pulling stunts? How cunning!” “Arrogant and overbearing in life, and still trying to cause trouble even after death!” “She was so malicious. Is it some kind of curse?” My mother’s face instantly paled, and she shot to her feet. “She used to covet everything Evelyn had! How could she possibly send a gift?!” “Get rid of it! We can’t let such an ill-omened thing spoil Evelyn’s wedding!” Alexander frowned, waving his hand dismissively. “Forget it, don’t bother. It’s certainly nothing good. Let’s just continue with the wedding.” But Evelyn raised a hand, silencing the commotion. “Is that so? I’d like to see what she sent.” My parents tried to object, but Evelyn had already opened the gift box. Inside was a thick journal. I recognized it as mine. But… my belongings were supposed to have been burned by my parents. How could it be here? Before I could ponder further, Evelyn picked up the journal and began to read aloud: February 1st, 2024. The Thorne family’s true daughter, Evelyn, has returned. She’s dark-skinned, thin, and terribly shy. Mom and Dad said Evelyn suffered a lot out there and that I should always defer to her from now on. As she finished, a photo of Evelyn appeared on the big screen, wearing a faded plaid shirt and jeans. It was a picture I’d secretly taken, hiding in a corner that day. Back then, her hair was dry and brittle, her eyes vacant, a stark contrast to the radiant woman she was today. Alexander, seeing the image, angrily ripped off his tie. “Turn it off! Who authorized this?! The past is the past! Evelyn isn’t like that anymore!” “Exactly!” Someone in the audience immediately chimed in. “Imogen is so manipulative! Keeping such an ugly photo!” “Could it be that she resented Evelyn the very first day she came back?!” “It seems all those things Imogen did later to frame Evelyn were premeditated!” Hearing this, my parents were even more furious. “If we’d known she was so vicious, we should have sent her away that very day!” I listened to their words, a knot of complex emotions in my chest. Just one photo, and I was being slandered like this. Evelyn paused, then continued to read. But she didn’t seem to dislike me much. She wiped the sweat from her palms and reached out to me, but I refused. She froze, then quietly asked if I didn’t like her. I was about to answer when my parents’ scolding voices exploded in my ears. Mom said, “It’s Evelyn’s first day back. Can’t you rein in your pampered heiress act?” Dad said, “Do you know what Evelyn went through these past twenty years? If it weren’t for that mix-up, you would have been the one suffering!” I was somewhat bewildered. Just the night before, they had told me that even if Evelyn returned, they would still treat me as their own daughter. I never expected that simply by not shaking Evelyn’s hand, they would reveal their true feelings. But… I only saw the calluses on Evelyn’s hand. I was afraid she’d feel self-conscious. Reading this, a flicker of confusion crossed Evelyn’s eyes, and she instinctively bit her lower lip. Mom reacted, snapping her head up. “I… I might have said that, but she got so out of hand later, I just…” “If she was really thinking of Evelyn, why didn’t she explain herself then? I think she’s just trying to cover her tracks now!” My father hugged her, softly comforting her. “It’s alright. She’s dead; consider it repayment.” Alexander frowned, cutting in. “I think she just didn’t want to accept Evelyn, afraid of losing her position when Evelyn came back!” Evelyn smiled faintly, saying nothing. The next second, her fingers turned to the next page. March 15th, 2024. The accompanying picture was of Alexander kneeling, tying my shoelace. Alexander came today. His first words were that he wanted to break off our engagement. He said that since the true Thorne heiress had returned, his family, the Scott’s, couldn’t possibly marry a fake. But he used to say he was marrying me only because he loved me. We’d known each other for over two decades. Did that count for less than being “real” or “fake”? How could he change so much just because Evelyn returned? I rushed out without thinking, wanting to ask him why. But then I heard him on the phone with a friend, saying, “Imogen’s just an impostor, she really thinks she’s something.” “She’s good for a bit of fun, but for an alliance, you need the real heiress.” The person on the other end said something I couldn’t hear, and he suddenly burst into laughter. “Yeah, it’s a shame, though.” “Five years with her, I was so good to her, and she wouldn’t even let me touch her. What a pretentious little ice queen.” “But that Evelyn… she looks like she’d be easier to get.” That’s when I realized all his past affection was a lie. I was so incredibly sad. I did consider telling Mom and Dad. But as soon as I mentioned Alexander, they assumed I was trying to compete with Evelyn again and wouldn’t give me a chance to speak. What about Evelyn then? I couldn’t just stand by and watch her marry such a scoundrel, could I? But would she even believe me? Reading this, Evelyn instinctively glanced at Alexander. He swallowed hard, then retorted, “She must have been jealous that you were marrying me, that’s why she wrote such nonsense!” Lord and Lady Scott also shot to their feet, roaring, “If my son really said those things, then what about Imogen’s plot to drug my son to get into his bed?!” Whispers started in the audience. “That’s right! On Evelyn’s birthday, Imogen deliberately put something in Alexander’s drink, and the next day, shamelessly demanded he marry her! She can’t deny that!” Evelyn nodded. “Yes, why would she do that?”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “391146”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

My wife believed money could solve every problem. On our wedding day, she allowed her junior assistant, Ashton, to accost me and call me a homewrecker. Seeing me attacked by the entire internet, she bought out my hurt for a million gold coins. Ashton “accidentally” shattered my father’s precious keepsake. She bought out my tears for three million gold coins. Until Ashton falsely accused me of stealing his watch, threatening to send me to prison. She remarked nonchalantly: “You’re always hovering around him; it’s natural he’d be annoyed. “It’s good that you’ll spend some time in prison to give him some peace. “Tell me, how much for your wounded heart?” “Ten billion gold coins.” I said the astronomical figure, my eyes red. She paused, just for a moment. Then smiled. “Alright.” I watched in shock as she walked away with Ashton. Beneath my hands, covering my face in feigned sadness, I finally couldn’t hold back a laugh: “She finally fell for it!” … Eleanor Howard led Ashton Tipton away, without a backward glance. Leaving me alone, heartbroken on the spot. Even the servants looked on with a mixture of pity and disdain. Some clicked their tongues and shook their heads, calling me a spineless fool. Others sighed mournfully, lamenting that my appeal as a true husband couldn’t even compare to an assistant. I entered the bedroom, eyes red, and slammed the door shut. Finally, I could laugh freely. Ten billion for a six-month prison sentence? Eleanor Howard, Eleanor Howard, you finally took the bait! It was worth all the grievances I’d endured before, repeatedly asking her if she still considered me her husband each time she offered money to soothe my distress. No, I shouldn’t say I was faking it. At first, I truly would throw the money back in her face. Back then, I’d still defiantly say money couldn’t buy love. I wanted my Elara, the Elara who had followed me since childhood, who used to sweetly call me ‘Brother Jackson.’ Later, I realized, a heart that had changed, had simply changed. Since it couldn’t be saved, I might as well make a huge profit. To compensate for our twenty years of shared history. When Eleanor’s car, meant to take me to turn myself in, pulled up downstairs, I feigned heartbreak while gracefully getting into the vehicle. It wasn’t until the navigation veered off the usual route, stopping in front of a secluded warehouse, that I suddenly realized something was wrong. “The driver today… it’s not Eleanor’s usual one, is it?” Just as I was about to jump out of the car, a handkerchief covered my mouth and nose from behind. When I next opened my eyes, I was tied to a chair. A somewhat familiar man stood before me. A phone was held to my ear, and I trembled as I spoke: “Eleanor Howard…” “Jackson? Is that really you!” Eleanor’s tone was momentarily chaotic. The man put the phone back to his own ear. “Did you hear that? If ten billion gold coins aren’t in my account by noon, in ten minutes, I’ll chop off one of his fingers.” “You dare kidnap my person?” Eleanor’s voice held suppressed anger. “Do you know who makes up Howard Security?” The man hesitated. “If you want to live, release him now, and wait quietly to be apprehended. I might consider letting you off the hook later.” “No!” Another man’s voice. My heart tightened. It was Eleanor’s assistant, Ashton Tipton. “Lady Howard, don’t call the authorities! He’s my brother!” Eleanor fell silent. “My brother never went to school. He worked hard to support my education. Without him, I wouldn’t be where I am today, and I wouldn’t have met you, Lady Howard! “He’s just been through some tough times recently. He’s truly desperate. “If you’re going to report him, then… arrest me too!” “What nonsense are you talking about?!” Hearing Eleanor’s voice, I knew she was distressed. No one understood the subtle shifts in her tone better than I did. My shoulders slumped, and I leaned back against the chair. Sure enough, she conceded. “I won’t call the authorities, and my security team won’t bother you. Ten billion is acceptable. “But you must guarantee his safety.” The man smirked. “Money in hand, everything’s negotiable.” I sat in that chair for three hours, not feeling nervous at all. Ten billion wasn’t an impossible sum for Eleanor Howard to produce. I was only worried that she wouldn’t charge this amount to my account. If she later claimed that the ten billion intended for me was used for my ransom, I truly would go mad. Two hours before noon, Eleanor Howard had the money ready. “We agreed, money in the account, you release him. Otherwise, Howard Security won’t let you off easy.” Hearing Eleanor’s warning, the man scoffed. “Of course. I want the money. Bearing a life on my conscience does me no good.” “Alright, I’m transferring it to you now…” “Lady Howard!” It was Ashton’s voice again. “That luxury car I saw earlier has just been released! It’s the only one in the world! If we don’t pay now, someone else will buy it!” Eleanor Howard fell silent once more. I felt a surge of anxiety. “Eleanor Howard!” She paused, then spoke. “Jackson, wait a little longer. That car is his favorite designer’s farewell masterpiece, and it costs exactly ten billion. He’s had his eye on it for a long time.” “But I’m currently…” “Enough! Can’t you even wait an hour?!” Eleanor sounded impatient. “He’s waited three whole years for this car. Can’t you be less selfish?!” I glanced at the clock, nearing eleven, and gritted my teeth. Eleanor turned to the man. “Mr. Tipton, for this last hour, I hope you’ll keep your word and not harm him.” “Of course, as long as you can raise it before twelve.” “Of course.” The call ended just like that. My once-relaxed heart now felt a slight tension. The hands of the clock crept towards twelve, and I felt my impending death drawing closer with each tick. No. I shook my head. Ten billion was no trouble for Eleanor Howard. It was merely a re-allocation of funds. Just a few signatures. Thinking this, my taut muscles gradually relaxed again. But with three minutes left until twelve, I grew tense once more. No call came in. No transfer came in. The man was starting to look impatient too. Seeing his cold eyes, I could only offer a forced smile. “She’ll definitely get it. Don’t worry. We’ve known each other since we were five. Twenty years of friendship; she wouldn’t really refuse you.” “Jackson Hayes.” He spoke coldly, “I’m at the end of my rope. If I don’t get this money today, I’m dying with you.” I swallowed hard. “She wouldn’t… she’ll give it…” The TV on the wall interrupted with a news flash. The moment I saw the screen, my heart sank. 【Renowned Designer’s Final Masterpiece Sells Out Upon Release】 【Mystery Tycoon Spends Ten Billion for Beloved Partner】 It was… a live broadcast. Ashton Tipton sat in the exquisitely designed luxury car, looking like an international superstar. Eleanor Howard sat in the passenger seat, smiling and waving to the crowd with him. It created iconic images. Soon, Ashton’s brother, Caleb Tipton, saw the trending hot topic. The hour hand reached twelve. I swallowed. “Your brother has a ten billion luxury car, so actually… it’s like you have it too.” “Cut that out!” My neck was suddenly gripped. He frowned, looking at me. “It wasn’t easy for us brothers to get where we are today. I will never use my brother’s money. “Since time’s up, Jackson Hayes, I have no other choice.” My hand was violently yanked and slammed onto the table. My nerves instantly tightened. “Wait! Let me call her!” He frowned. I pleaded, “She must have… she must have forgotten. Let me call her. She’ll send the money quickly! “Forget ten billion, twenty billion… it’s even possible!” Caleb Tipton paused. Then suddenly smiled. “I have a better idea.” This time, Caleb made a video call. The moment Eleanor saw me, she frowned. “Wait a little longer. Ashton values this public appearance opportunity greatly. Don’t cause trouble randomly.” “I didn’t! I… ah!” A needle jabbed into my neck. My pupils instantly constricted. The next second, the nail of my pinky finger was brutally pulled off with pliers. “Jackson!” Eleanor’s eyes widened. My body convulsed uncontrollably. “Damn it… why does it hurt so much… it shouldn’t hurt this much, ahh!!” “Jackson!” “Lady Howard.” Caleb held my fingernail up to the camera. “I injected him with a serum that amplifies pain tenfold. Just pulling off a nail will make him wish for death.” “Do you want to die?!” Eleanor’s eyes were red. “Lady Howard, I told you, ten minutes, I cut off a finger. Twelve o’clock has already passed.” “No… don’t!” My hand was forcibly pressed onto the table. He was about to sacrifice my first finger. Eleanor panicked. “I’m paying now!” “Lady Howard, no!” It was… Ashton again! In the camera, Ashton looked at my hand in shock, then frowned. “Brother! You’ve gone too far!!” “Brother, I…” Caleb looked somewhat flustered. Ashton turned, pleadingly looking at Eleanor. “Lady Howard! You can’t give him the money!” Eleanor and I both froze. “No, Jackson can’t endure the pain.” “Still no!” Ashton was agitated. “Lady Howard, I didn’t expect my brother to go this far this time. If you give him the money, he’ll do it again! “This time it’s Mr. Hayes he’s kidnapped, and you’ll help me, Lady Howard, but what about later? If he kidnaps someone else and gets caught, I won’t have a brother anymore!” Eleanor fell into deep thought. “So, Lady Howard, I beg you, let me talk him out of it. He listens to me most. If he can turn over a new leaf this time, it won’t just save you, Lady Howard, but also me and my brother!” “Eleanor Howard, don’t listen to him!” I was in such pain I was almost insane. “His brother is already mad! No one can persuade him! “He just wants to see me suffer! That bastard!” “Mr. Hayes, you!” Ashton’s eyes instantly reddened. Eleanor shielded him. “You’re mad! He’s actively trying to save you! Is this how you speak to your savior? “You’re so self-centered, don’t assume everyone else is like you!” “Eleanor Howard, I…” Ashton cut me off. “Mr. Hayes, I’ll go persuade my brother in a bit. Don’t worry, I won’t let anything happen to you.” Eleanor frowned. “Ashton is entirely focused on saving you, yet you slander him so much. Do you deserve him?” Then she hung up the phone directly. But just as I had said before, there was no way Ashton could persuade Caleb to back down. Not only did he not. After Caleb hung up with his brother, his gaze towards me became even more sinister. “My brother said you not only stole his woman, but you’ve repeatedly targeted him?” I trembled, begging him not to. But I could only watch as he clamped the pliers onto my finger. “I’ve reached the end of my rope. I’m willing to die. “But luckily, before I die, I can drag a bastard like you down with me!” “No!!” I fell into complete despair. Luckily, Ashton’s call interrupted his action. He answered, but it wasn’t Ashton on the screen; it was Eleanor Howard. “Jackson!” The moment she saw me, her eyes widened in disbelief.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “391143”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

On New Year’s Eve, the year I got into university, my parents’ gift to me was to reveal our family held billions in assets. For the first time in fifteen years, I stepped out of that cramped, thirty-five square meter rental apartment. Gazing at the opulent mansion before me, I asked, “Why did you lie to me?” My mother, her arm around a girl who looked seventy percent like me, her face beaming with pride, said, “This is your sister, Cindy. When we found her, she was deeply infatuated, ready to die for some penniless boy.” “To show her how pathetic a life without money can be, our entire family acted out this charade for you.” “See? You got into university on your own merit, and your sister finally saw the poor boy for who he truly was, and is now willing to come home and inherit the family business. These fifteen years were worth it!” My sister looked at me with disdain. “Thanks to having you as a comparison, otherwise, I might have truly believed love conquered all.” So, my fifteen years of suffering were just a grand, elaborate play designed to highlight her and educate her? 1 “Snap.” The crystal chandelier in the villa’s living room stung my eyes, making me instinctively raise a hand to shield them. My hands were rough, chapped, and my knuckles slightly deformed from years of manual labor. “Don’t cover your eyes, Lyra.” My mother’s voice carried an unfamiliar air of elegance and nonchalance. “This is our real home. To celebrate you getting into a prestigious university, and to celebrate your sister, Cindy, finding her way back, today, we have double good news.” I lowered my hand, my vision blurring for a moment, finally focusing on the girl sitting squarely in the center of the sofa. She looked seventy percent like me, her skin glowing white. She was now scrutinizing me with an expression one might reserve for a stray dog. “Mom, is this my… ‘control group’?” The girl spoke, her voice soft and tender. “She does look quite miserable,tsk. Her hair is as dry as straw. If that poor boy saw her dressed so shabbily, he’d probably run for the hills overnight.” I stood frozen, the canvas sneakers on my feet felt scorching hot like branding irons. “What do you mean?” I heard my own voice trembling. My father sat in a single armchair, no longer holding a cheap cigarette but a fine cigar. “It means, your fifteen years of poverty are over.” “Lyra, fifteen years ago we found your sister, Cindy Gant. She was foolish back then, insistent on eloping with a petty thug.” “To teach her a lesson, to make her understand the misery of a penniless marriage, we decided to use you as a negative example.” “We lived with you in that rental, ate leftovers, wore secondhand clothes, all to show your sister how pathetic a person lives without money, like a dog.” Boom! I stared at the people I had called Mom and Dad for fifteen years, watching the taken-for-granted expressions on their faces. “Acting?” I took a step forward, my voice hoarse. “Then the year I had that high fever in junior high, and you said we had no money for a doctor, making me drink ginger tea and try to sweat it out, nearly getting pneumonia—that was acting too?” “Me, fainting in gym class from hunger, trying to save lunch money for study guides—that was acting too?” “My hands, covered in chilblains in winter, still having to fold cardboard boxes to earn living expenses—that was acting too?” My mother frowned, as if my questions were too noisy. “Alright, don’t bring up those old, dusty grieGants. If it weren’t for that, would you have gotten into a top university? You should thank us for giving you this opportunity to temper your will.” Cindy set down her cup and walked towards me. A wave of expensive perfume washed over me, masking the persistent damp, musty smell that clung to my own clothes. “Sister, one must learn to be content.” “These fifteen years, Mom and Dad may have neglected you materially, but they gave you immense spiritual wealth.” “Look at me. Though I lived a life of luxury, I nearly let love cloud my judgment. It was watching you struggle like an ant, turning red-faced over a few coins, that finally made me realize.” She leaned in close to my ear, chuckling softly. “Watching you walk for miles to save two gold coins on bus fare, watching you be humiliated for a part-time job slot, I truly thought… money is wonderful.” “You are the best wake-up call of my life.” I trembled all over, my blood seemingly flowing backward. The best wake-up call? My fifteen years of blood and tears, my countless nights of weeping, my self-respect humbled to dust. In their eyes, all of it was just teaching material to educate another daughter? “You… you’re disgusting.” I forced the words through gritted teeth. “Slap!” A sharp slap landed heavily on my face. “You insolent girl! Is that how you speak to your sister?” “Are you getting too big for your britches?” “Now that you know the truth, know your place! In this house, Cindy is the moon in the sky, and you’re at most a firefly on the ground. Don’t even dream of comparing yourself to her!” I clutched my burning face, tasting a hint of blood in my mouth. In that moment, I finally understood. That thirty-five square meter rental apartment wasn’t my hell. This opulent mansion was. “Alright, stop making that morbid face.” My mother shot me a disgusted glance, then turned to Cindy, her face full of doting affection. “Cindy, take your sister to the mall tomorrow, buy her some decent clothes. Your grandfather’s birthday banquet is in a few days. Don’t let her shabby appearance embarrass the Thorne family.” Cindy casually filed her nails. “Got it. I could use a bag-holder anyway.” The next day, I was taken to the city’s most exclusive department store. For fifteen years, I had passed by it countless times, never daring to glance inside. The air conditioning inside was strong, raising goosebumps on my skin. Cindy walked ahead, her heels clicking crisply on the marble floor. I followed behind, feeling like a beggar who had stumbled into a heavenly palace. “This one, this one, and that one too.” Cindy pointed casually at a few dresses, and the sales associate immediately took them down with a beaming smile. “Go try them on.” She tossed the clothes to me. I walked into the fitting room, cradling garments with five-figure price tags. The girl in the mirror was sallow and gaunt, her collarbones prominent, ribs clearly visible. I put on a pink lace dress. It was beautiful. But on me, it hung loosely, making me look like a clown in stolen adult clothes. I walked out of the fitting room. Cindy was sitting on a sofa, drinking coffee. She burst out laughing when she saw me. “Oh my God, Mom, look.” She pulled out her phone and snapped a picture of me. “How does that dress look like a rag on her? She can’t carry it at all.” My mother chimed in. “No help for it, her foundation is too poor. Not eating well for fifteen years, her development is stunted. Not like our Cindy, a natural clothes horse.” The sales associate offered an awkward smile. “The second young lady is indeed… a bit too thin.” “Thin? That’s poverty-stricken.” Cindy walked over, reaching out to pinch the meager flesh on my arm. “Tsk, tsk, all bone, hard to touch.” “But then again, if we’d fed you well and made you plump back then, how else would I have learned about the hardships of the common folk?” “I’m not buying anything.” I said softly, turning to go back into the fitting room. “Stop right there.” My mother’s cold voice cut through the air. “Who gave you permission to throw a tantrum? Buying you clothes is a privilege. Don’t be ungrateful.” “This one, and those other ones she tried on, wrap them all up.” She pulled out a black card and handed it to the sales associate. “Wear these clothes, and get rid of that impoverished aura. Remember, you are a Thorne daughter. Even if you’re just a foil, don’t be too embarrassing.” Returning home, it was dinner time. The long dining table was laden with dishes I didn’t recognize. Australian lobster, black truffle foie gras, and sashimi still nestled on ice. I sat at the far end, picking up a knife and fork, my hands somewhat stiff. For fifteen years, I had only used bamboo chopsticks, two gold coins a pair. “Hmph.” A soft laugh reached my ears. Cindy cut a piece of steak, her eyes full of amusement as she watched me. “Mom, look at how she holds her knife. Doesn’t it look like she’s sawing wood?” The entire family’s attention focused on my hands. I was struggling to cut through the medium-rare steak, the blade scraping against the plate with a harsh, grating sound. My father frowned, cursing, “You ill-mannered girl!” “You can’t even eat properly. What have you learned in these fifteen years?” I put down my knife and fork, lowering my head, looking at the bloody steak on my plate, my stomach churning. “I’m sorry.” “What good is ‘I’m sorry’?” Cindy elegantly wiped the corner of her mouth, her tone dismissive. “Some things, you know, are ingrained in the bone. Even if you wear a royal robe, you won’t look like a prince.” “Sister, your destiny is to eat street food your whole life.” My mother sighed, pushing a barely touched salad in front of me. “Alright, don’t waste good food. You eat this. It’s healthy and suits your stomach.” I picked up the fork, one cold leaf after another, mechanically chewing and swallowing. Like training a newly adopted stray dog. The month before university started was the longest agony of my life. In this house, I lived like a transparent ghost, or a servant on call. At Cindy’s parties, I was the tea-serving attendant; when Cindy went shopping, I was the bag-carrying labor; when Cindy was in a bad mood, I was her emotional trash bin. I endured. Because I held my university acceptance letter. I was the top science student in the province. With that score, I had secured a national scholarship for overseas study, fully funded, to pursue computer science at a world-renowned university. As long as I survived this summer, I could escape, completely free myself from this twisted family. This was my only hope. That night, I was organizing my visa documents in my room. The door was suddenly pushed open, without a knock. My mother walked in, followed by Cindy, who had a playful look on her face. “What are you doing?” My mother casually flipped through the documents on my desk, her gaze falling on the red public scholarship certificate. “Packing, preparing for university.” I took the certificate back, carefully tucking it into a folder. “Oh, that.” My mother sat down nonchalantly. “Lyra, we need to discuss something with you.” “What is it?” “Your sister also wants to study abroad, but her grades… you know, she neglected her studies because of dating.” My mother paused, glancing at Cindy. Cindy was leisurely fiddling with my passport. “So?” I stared intensely at my mother. “So, we want you to give that scholarship slot to your sister.” “What did you say?” I looked at her in disbelief. “How can I give it to her? It’s registered under my name! I earned this through my hard work!” “Oh, don’t get so agitated.” My mother frowned. “Your father has already made arrangements. As long as you sign a voluntary relinquishment statement and write a letter of recommendation, plus the building our family donated to the university, transferring the slot won’t be an issue.” “Why should I?” “This is my only way out! I earned this by studying day and night, ruining my eyes, wearing down my body!” “If Cindy Gant wants to study abroad, your family has billions. You can send her anywhere! Why steal my scholarship slot?” “Because I want the prestige.” Cindy tossed the passport back onto the desk, speaking airily. “Going abroad with money is just ‘gilding.’ It doesn’t sound good. A scholarship student, that’s a genius, an academic star. I need that title to command respect when I take over the company later.” She walked up to me, her finger poking my shoulder. “Besides, sister. Someone like you, who only knows how to bury herself in books, will just be a bookworm abroad. I’m different. I need this platform to expand my network, to see the world.” “This opportunity would be wasted on you. Better to give it to me, so I can create value for the family.” “I won’t sign.” I gritted my teeth, fiercely guarding the folder. “This is my life. You have no right to take it.” “Lyra Thorne!” A furious roar came from the doorway. My father walked in. “Are you getting too big for your britches? Us discussing it with you is a privilege!” “Your very life was given by me, and your education was funded by me! Without this family, what are you?” “Funded me?” I laughed, tears streaming down my face. “For fifteen years, my tuition was fully waived, and my living expenses came from folding cardboard boxes and collecting bottles! Did you ever give me a single coin?” “That’s because we gave you life!” My father strode over, snatching the folder from my arms. “Today, you will sign this, whether you want to or not!” “Give it back! That’s mine!” I lunged, desperate to grab it. “Slap!” My father backhanded me, sending me sprawling to the ground. The folder fell, its papers scattering. Cindy walked over, her heel grinding hard on the red certificate. “You chose the hard way.” She looked down at me. “Sister, you don’t actually think you can escape our grasp, do you?”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “391142”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

The winter break was just around the corner, and my parents had booked us a luxurious cruise. My roommate, Chloe, burst into tears the moment she heard, calling my mom. “Godmother, have you forgotten you have another daughter?” After my mom politely refused, Chloe started crying and throwing a fit in our dorm room. “How can there be such biased parents in the world? We’re both their daughters, why treat me differently?” I was stunned. She’d only stayed at my place for a while, and now she genuinely thought she was my parents’ biological child. “Phoebe, are you really planning to go on vacation with your parents and just leave me alone at home?” Her question completely bewildered me. “Aren’t you going back to your own home for the break? You’re not actually planning to come to my house, are you?” Chloe’s family lived in another state, so she usually stayed in the dorms on weekends. Fearing she might get bored alone, I’d invited her to my place once. The moment she stepped inside, she exclaimed, “Phoebe, I’ve never lived in such a big, comfortable house! Can I stay here forever?” Out of politeness, I’d casually said, “Sure, you can.” From then on, every weekend, Chloe would come and stay at my house. My mom knew she was my roommate and always made sure there was plenty of good food whenever she visited. Chloe was also quite sensible, helping with chores like mopping floors and wiping tables. My dad would always try to stop her when he saw her working. “Chloe, you don’t need to do any of this. Go watch TV with Phoebe.” “It’s alright, Uncle. I do these things often at home.” “Look at Chloe, such a well-behaved child. If only you were my daughter too, I’d have two little darlings.” I never expected that one joke would lead Chloe to take it so seriously. “Why don’t I call you my godparents? Then Phoebe and I would be like sisters. I’m older than Phoebe, so I’d be the big sister.” “Godparents, I’ll take care of you both with Phoebe from now on!” My mom looked awkward. “Uncle and Auntie know you have a good heart, but we don’t really do godparents in our family.” Chloe seemed not to hear, continuing to call them “Godmother” and “Godfather.” My mom tried to correct her, but my dad secretly whispered, “Let her call us whatever she wants. Don’t make the child feel embarrassed.” It continued until winter break. I thought we could finally enjoy some family time, just the three of us. I never expected her to want to come to my house again! Chloe looked at me pitifully. “Phoebe, I couldn’t get a train ticket home, so I guess I’ll have to stay at your place this winter break.” “I’m your big sister, you wouldn’t really turn me away from home, would you?” I was already annoyed. “Chloe, I don’t care if you call us sisters. But this winter break, our family of three is going on a trip, and there won’t be anyone home.” “And it’s almost the holidays, wouldn’t your family mind if you didn’t go home?” “In my heart, I only have this one home. Whether I go back to that other house or not doesn’t really matter. Since you three are going on a trip, I guess I’ll just stay at home by myself.” I almost doubted my ears. “Did I hear that right? You’re planning to stay at my house all by yourself for the entire winter break?” “Yes, is that not allowed?” “Absolutely not!” I refused outright. “I’m sorry, but it’s not convenient to let you stay in my house alone. You’ll have to find a way to buy a ticket and go back to your own home.” Chloe didn’t say anything else, and I assumed she’d accepted it. But on the day we were leaving for break, when my parents drove to pick me up, Chloe showed up with her luggage. My parents and I stared at her, dumbfounded. She stood before us, looking a little flustered. “Godparents, can I come home with you?” “I know you’re going on a trip, but you don’t have to worry about me. I’ll be good staying at home alone!” “I can help you watch the house, and help with cleaning!” “My parents only gave me enough money for a cheap train ticket, and they’re so hard to get. I couldn’t get one to go home.” “Everyone’s gone home for the holidays, even the dorm supervisor. I’m really scared to stay in the dorms by myself.” She started tearing up as she spoke. My dad’s heart softened, and he opened the car door. “Get in.” Chloe immediately beamed, picking up her luggage and climbing into the car. I was pretty unhappy, feeling she was far too comfortable, but knowing we’d be roommates for another three and a half years of college, I decided not to make a scene. Back home, Chloe put down her luggage and immediately went to the kitchen to help wash vegetables. “Godparents, you’ve worked so hard. Let me make dinner tonight.” She was always so sensible, voluntarily taking on chores, and even offering to massage my parents’ shoulders. My dad always liked to compare me to her. “Look at Chloe, if only you were half as sensible as her, we’d be content!” But in reality, every time Chloe offered to help, my parents would never let her. After all, she was a guest, and how could we make a guest do work? Sure enough, as soon as Chloe put the vegetables in the sink, my mom pushed her out of the kitchen. “Go watch TV. Let Phoebe help me with the vegetables.” I rolled up my sleeves and went into the kitchen. “Mom, Chloe has offered to cook for us so many times, but I’ve never actually eaten her cooking. Today’s a good chance for her to show off her skills. You go rest.” I pushed my mom out of the kitchen, then beckoned to Chloe. “What are you waiting for? Start cooking.” Chloe reluctantly tied on an apron. She actually managed to whip up four dishes, all of which my parents loved. My parents were even more fond of her after that. “Chloe, I can’t believe you’re only eighteen and you cook so well. My Phoebe can only wash vegetables; she can’t even steam rice.” “If Godmother likes it, I’ll cook for you every day.” After saying that, she shot me a triumphant glance. “Phoebe, you should learn from Chloe. When we’re not home, you just order takeout, which isn’t healthy.” “It’s okay, Godfather. I can cook for Phoebe from now on.” “Oh, and are you leaving for your trip tomorrow? I’m so envious of Phoebe, getting to travel every break. The furthest I’ve ever been is from home to school.” My dad looked a little pained hearing that, and he turned to my mom. “How about we let Chloe come with us?” Before my mom could even speak, Chloe was already excitedly tearing up. “Thank you, Godfather, can I really go?” Then she looked at my mom expectantly. My mom’s lips parted, and she finally said, “I’ll ask the travel agency if there’s still room.” A moment later, my mom said, “I’m sorry, Chloe, but the travel agency says they’re fully booked. There’s no way to add another person. Next time, we’ll go together another time if we get the chance.” Disappointment flashed in Chloe’s eyes, but she could only nod and say okay. After dinner, Chloe followed me into my bedroom. She suddenly said in a chilling voice, “You should have told me earlier that you were going on a trip. If you had, Godparents could have taken me too.” I couldn’t be bothered to respond, and just grabbed my change of clothes and headed to the bathroom to shower. When I came out after my shower, I suddenly slipped and fell at the bathroom door. I clutched my leg, sweating from the pain. “Who moved the non-slip mat from the doorway? Why is there shower gel all over the floor? No wonder it’s so slippery!” My mom helped me up, asking Chloe, “Did you move the non-slip mat? And spill shower gel everywhere?” Chloe looked remorseful. “Oh, I accidentally spilled some shower gel earlier, and I thought I’d take the mat to scrub it clean. But before I could finish, Phoebe came out. I really didn’t mean to.” She looked on the verge of tears. “Phoebe, are you okay? I’m so sorry.” My dad helped me up. “We need to go to the hospital. Our daughter took a bad fall.” The whole family went to the emergency room with me. After a thorough check-up, thankfully, no bones were broken. But my ankle and knee were swollen like balloons, and I needed help to walk. Chloe said worriedly, “Phoebe fell so badly, she definitely can’t go on the trip tomorrow. It’s all my fault. Will the tour fees we paid be wasted?” “Godmother, can the tour fees be refunded? What if they can’t? It’s so much money, it would be such a waste for no one to go.” I couldn’t go, so she’d just slot right in. Chloe’s hints were quite obvious, but my parents just didn’t take the bait. “Then none of us will go. We’ll stay home and take care of Phoebe.” Chloe was a bit displeased, but she quickly composed herself. “Godparents, you go ahead and enjoy your trip. I’ll take care of Phoebe.” I also said, “Yes, Mom and Dad, you go have fun. Chloe and I will be more comfortable at home anyway.” My parents, persuaded by me, ultimately decided to go on the trip. Only Chloe and I were left at home. “You deliberately caused me to slip yesterday, didn’t you?” It wasn’t a question; it was an accusation. “Oh, I really didn’t mean to. Why would you think such bad things about me? Godparents didn’t even blame me, why are you still dwelling on yesterday?” She opened the fridge and unceremoniously took out some durian and cherries, beginning to eat. “Order some takeout quickly, I’m starving. Order plenty, I’ve invited my friends over. There are five of them, and they eat a lot, so don’t be stingy and make them laugh.” “Your friends are coming to my house?” “Yes, this is my house too. Can’t I invite my friends over to play?” I was about to explode with anger. “No, you should at least ask me before inviting your friends over! This is my house. You’re just my roommate. You really think this is your own home!” Chloe stood up abruptly. “How is this not my home? I’ve adopted godparents, so this is my home!” “Godparents told me to treat this as my own home. They like me very much. You’re the only one who treats me like an outsider!” “Chloe, are you really so oblivious to polite language?” “Alright, that’s enough. My friends will be here soon. I don’t want to argue with you. If you don’t want to stay, you can leave.” “This is my home, why should I leave!” Just then, there was a knock at the door. Chloe immediately went to open it. “Oh, you’re finally here! I was just about to order takeout. What do you guys want to eat?” “I want steak!” “I want Japanese food!” There were five girls, some from other departments, and others she knew from a part-time job. Chloe simply grabbed my phone, opened the takeout app, and started choosing. “Chloe, that’s my phone!” “I know, darling. Oh, my sweet little sister, my friends are here. Don’t you think you should be a good host and treat them to something nice?” I held out my hand. “Your own friends, you entertain them yourself. Give me back my phone!” “It won’t cost you much. Don’t be so stingy.” I couldn’t walk properly, so I couldn’t snatch it back from her. Chloe held my phone and ordered for a long time, then threw it back to me. “Thanks, little sister.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “391141”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

I was seeing a new man behind my first patron, Aaron Nash’s back, when I unexpectedly got pregnant with the new man’s baby. Just as I was fretting, I discovered Aaron had always been secretly in love with his step-sister. Without a second thought, I decided to find a stand-in for him. I finally found a college student, Lily Evans, who looked about 70% like Aaron Nash’s step-sister. She signed a contract with me: if she successfully took my place, she’d give me half of her monthly allowance. As expected, Aaron was drawn to her, and I, the ‘difficult’ girlfriend, was swiftly shown the door. Watching the cold, hard numbers in my bank account grow each month, I smiled. If I couldn’t have a man’s heart, I’d certainly have his money! … The third time I called Aaron Nash back from work for some frivolous reason, he finally snapped. “Viola Bernard! Can you please stop being so dramatic? Do you have nothing else to do all day? You’re so idle!” I covered my face, feigning hurt. “Aaron, you’ve changed. You weren’t like this before.” He used to patiently indulge my every whim, treating me like a pampered, delicate trophy wife. Aaron was utterly fed up. “Viola, I’m warning you, know your place. Don’t get carried away by a little kindness. Understand your position and stop overstepping.” Aaron was truly angry. Before, I would have backed down, appeased him, and kept him from getting upset. But today, I was breaking up with him. “Aaron! You don’t love me anymore! I want to break up with you!” Aaron’s voice was volatile. “Then break up!” He pointed at me. “Viola, do you honestly think we were in a relationship? You were nothing more than a plaything. Stop flattering yourself.” Aaron’s words were too harsh, and I, being overly emotional, genuinely started to cry. “Pack your things tomorrow. Move out immediately.” I choked back a sob. “What about severance?” I instinctively clutched my belly. Raising a child costs a fortune. I needed to fleece him for as much as I could get. Aaron couldn’t possibly be that stingy, could he? He had indeed become stingier. He tossed a card at me. “Here’s five million. Take the money and get out.” It used to be at least eight million. Aaron left. I quickly packed my things, and on a whim, sold all the expensive furniture in the house. Anything Aaron had given me, even the costly mattress, I took with me. My bank account instantly swelled with cash. Just then, Lily called. “Sister, did you break up with Mr. Nash?” “Yes, yes, just now.” Lily let out a sigh of relief, her voice light. “Sister, don’t you worry. From now on, even if Aaron only gives me a dollar, I’ll give you fifty cents.” “Good. That’s very thoughtful of you.” I couldn’t help but advise her, “Remember to keep Aaron’s preferences and dislikes firmly in mind, and really grasp his step-sister’s personal style.” “I absolutely will.” Lily was very eager. As long as she could live a life of luxury, she’d do anything. After hanging up, I single-handedly cleared out the entire walk-in closet, my back aching from the effort. Lily was the new trophy wife I’d found for Aaron. A month ago, I had discovered I was pregnant, and the child wasn’t his. Coincidentally, I also found out that Aaron was deeply, yet subtly, in love with his estranged step-sister. To protect the baby inside me, I had no choice but to take a risk and personally find a stand-in for Aaron. I finally chose Lily, who bore a striking resemblance to his step-sister. As expected, Aaron took an interest in Lily, and I was finally free to exit. My belongings filled four large moving trucks. Seeing all my treasures, I was so excited I wiped away tears. The housekeeper spoke up, “Miss Bernard, perhaps you should be a little more amenable with Mr. Nash. He still cares for you deep down.” No, no. Aaron had become stingy lately. Even if I blamed the baby in my belly on him, I wouldn’t get much out of it. Even without Lily, he would eventually lose interest over time. This variable was better controlled by me, and I could earn double the money. The housekeeper sighed, and the next second, he saw Aaron and Lily by his side. Lily clung to his arm like a delicate bird, looking at me with feigned unfamiliarity. The housekeeper stammered, “Mr. Nash, Miss Bernard is moving out.” Aaron’s tone was cold. “Viola, once a breakup happens, there’s no going back. Don’t be so stubborn.” Lily looked nervous, clearly afraid I might change my mind. My eyes reddened. “Aaron, you changed your mind a long time ago, didn’t you? Is this woman your new favorite?” Aaron forced a smile. “I don’t need only you.” “Butler, from now on, Lily will live here. Don’t ever mention Viola Bernard again.” I clenched my fists and covered my face, barely stifling a laugh. This was perfect! Feigning distress, I got into the passenger seat of the moving truck, continuously covering my face. Below, Aaron’s expression was complex, a flicker of pain in his eyes. I had never traveled in such a common vehicle before. I was always chauffeured, never letting my feet touch the ground if possible. Aaron said, “Once the arrow is shot, there’s no turning back. Take care of yourself.” I nodded vigorously, hoping we would never cross paths again. He handed me another card. “This is the last time I’m giving you money. Take care.” I hadn’t expected to receive more money, and I felt a bit guilty. Yesterday, I’d complained about the small severance and sold all the furniture. Now the villa was empty. The housekeeper probably thought I was being petty, selling everything just to spite Aaron, as if I actually needed the money. The truck driver pulled away, and I let out a huge sigh of relief. Before I even reached my new home, I received a transfer from Lily: five hundred thousand. [Lily]: Sister, how did you make Mr. Nash love you so much? My monthly allowance is a million. I’ve never seen so much money in my life. I really want to be this rich forever. I gave her serious advice. [Me]: Do your job well and mimic Anya Nash, but whatever you do, don’t let him find out you’re deliberately imitating her. Otherwise, he’ll turn on you. Lily was obedient and took my words as gospel. Back home, I popped open a bottle of champagne for myself as the moving company slowly put everything in its place. The next day, I woke up in Leo Hayes’s arms. My consciousness hadn’t fully awakened, but my face was nestled comfortably in Leo’s chest. “Baby, you finally moved in here.” “Honey, I was just so busy before. From now on, I’ll be with you every day.” Saying this, I kissed Leo’s face. He was my second patron and the biological father of the child in my belly. The economy might be in a slump recently, which was why Aaron had become less generous. I was afraid of being dumped by him and struggling, so I decided to prepare a backup plan and found a new patron. Leo made me breakfast, and I checked my bank balance while I ate. Aaron had spent more money on Lily. Lily was quite honest; the first thing she did after getting the money wasn’t to enjoy it, but to split it with me immediately. “Baby, who are you chatting with?” I casually brushed him off. “Just a friend.” Leo reached out and pinched the flesh on my cheek. “You seem to have gained a lot of weight recently; you look quite plump.” “Isn’t being a little plump good? You used to say I was too thin.” I hadn’t told Leo about the pregnancy because I was afraid he’d drag me to a clinic for an abortion. I didn’t dare to gamble on the consciences of these wealthy men. I would only tell him about the child’s existence when I was further along and everything was settled. With this child, I would be set for life. Leo kissed me. “I love you no matter how you look.” After breakfast, Leo left for work. Almost immediately after, Lily called me, her voice excited. “Sister, last night I slept with Aaron, and he called out Anya Nash’s name in my ear.” “Good thing I pretended to pass out from pleasure, otherwise I wouldn’t have known how to act.” I chuckled. “Next time, just pretend you didn’t hear it, or directly ask who that person is.” Aaron would smooth it over anyway. He and Anya could never be together, constrained by their identities and by convention. “The world of the rich is so messy! He was pretty angry yesterday when he saw the empty villa, and he even cursed at you a bit.” “What did he say about me?” I felt a little surge of excitement. How could Aaron be like that? Couldn’t we have ended things amicably? Why did he have to curse me? Lily repeated all the insults. “He called you a drama queen, materialistic, and high-maintenance.” Hearing this, I let out a sigh of relief. This wasn’t really cursing me; this was just my true nature. When I first met Aaron, he liked my straightforward, uncomplicated personality. He said he could see right through me, which made him feel secure. So people change so quickly; one moment they like you, the next they despise you. My acceptance was high, just as I, upon discovering Aaron was spending less on me, immediately sought out a new patron. “Sister, don’t worry, I’ll be your eyes and ears and relentlessly extract money from him.” I cautioned her, “Don’t be too greedy at first. If he gives it to you, take it, but don’t constantly ask for more; it makes you look cheap.” “He’s most accommodating in bed. Just seize that opportunity to ‘rob’ him.” Lily spoke sweetly, then started showering me with compliments. “Sister, you’re still the best. No wonder Aaron is so obsessed with you.” She went on and on, eventually complimenting my looks and figure. “Sister! You’re a goddess descended from heaven. A beautiful woman like you, even I’m in love with you!” I rolled my eyes. “Alright, stop. You get back to work.” After hanging up, I secretly went to the hospital for a check-up. If I could, I’d check every day. Just as I got my results, I ran into Aaron. He walked towards me. “Viola Bernard, what are you doing here?” He subconsciously glanced at my medical report, which I quickly hid. “None of your business. You and I are ancient history.” Aaron chuckled. “Viola, you’re not still throwing a tantrum, are you? I pampered you too much all these years, that’s why you’ve gotten so audacious.” “Last night, Lily and I slept together.” Aaron was trying to find regret or sorrow on my face. But he was clearly disappointed. I was perfectly fine with it. Not just after the breakup, but even if I had known he was with other women while we were still together, I wouldn’t have been particularly sad. I’d only be scared of being dumped unprepared. “That’s great. I wish you happiness.” I clutched the report, eager to leave, but he grabbed my wrist. “What’s wrong with you? Why are you suddenly at the hospital?” I found Aaron’s words very strange and casually brushed him off. “Just a check-up.” I pulled free from his grip and walked away. His gaze behind me was so intense that I didn’t dare to look back. I couldn’t let him know I was pregnant, or I’d be completely ruined. Getting pregnant after a breakup was one thing; getting pregnant before was cheating on him. No man would tolerate that. Aaron’s face was grim. He felt Viola had lost a lot of weight. He pulled out his phone and made a call. “Check on Viola Bernard, why she’s at the hospital, and send me her medical report.” When I got home, I found a strange woman in my living room. I couldn’t help but be wary, asking her flatly, “Who are you? How did you get into my house?” Autumn Hayes scrutinized me. “So you’re the woman my brother’s keeping?” It turned out to be Leo’s sister. I breathed a sigh of relief; as long as she wasn’t some random woman, it was fine. Even if Leo changed his mind, it had to wait until the baby was born. “Hello, sister. I’m Viola Bernard.” Autumn looked disdainful. “Don’t call me that. A woman like you isn’t fit to enter the Hayes family home.” I smiled. “Oh, I wouldn’t dare. Your brother is just having some fun with me, a temporary novelty.” Hearing me say this, Autumn’s expression was odd, as if she were uncomfortable. She’d thought it would take some effort to make Viola understand her place. Autumn’s voice rose. “Good that you know!” I kept smiling. In my line of work, you had to have a good mindset. Without it, you couldn’t do this job. You couldn’t have it all. A few minutes later, Leo returned. He saw Autumn, his brows slightly furrowed. “What are you doing here? Haven’t I told you not to just walk into this house?” Autumn looked a little angry. “Brother! Are you afraid I’ll disturb your little hideaway?” “Good that you know.” Leo glanced at me, then quickly pushed her out the door. “Go quickly. Are you out of things to do, or just bored?” Autumn clung frantically to the door, shouting, “I’m not leaving! I don’t want to leave!” I sighed. “Leo, let her in. It’s not too late to eat dinner before she leaves.” Leo relented, and Autumn quickly scurried in, giving me a look that said, “You’re smart.” To maintain my image as a reasonable person, I voluntarily went into the kitchen to cook. Leo was touched, kissing me. “So thoughtful. I’ll bring you a gift tomorrow.” As I was cooking, I didn’t realize my phone, left in the living room, was ringing. Autumn picked it up without thinking. “Hello? Who is this?” The caller said, “Let Viola answer the phone.” Autumn frowned. “What do you want? What’s your relationship with her?” Aaron’s voice was complex. “I’m her husband. She’s pregnant, and the child is mine.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “391140”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

I married a university professor. He was always so restrained and composed, never losing control, taking me only thrice each night. During a reshoot of a kissing scene for a movie, the set happened to be in the very university classroom where he taught. He didn’t interfere, showed no signs of jealousy, and of course, he didn’t love me. Suddenly, I grew weary of the relationship and proposed a divorce. My stated reason was a lack of variety and passion. It wasn’t until I stumbled upon my “little clothes”—my intimate garments—in his study, already well-worn and familiar from his touch. Was this still the same aloof, ice-cold husband I knew? I recoiled in shock, but he advanced, step by relentless step… 1 I married my father’s most esteemed student. After graduating from college, I chose not to follow the path my parents had meticulously planned, instead plunging headfirst into the chaotic world of acting. My professor parents, naturally, vehemently opposed this decision. Eventually, we struck a compromise: within two years, regardless of my success in the entertainment industry, I had to get married. Two years flew by in the blink of an eye. My father, sequestered in his study, made a phone call to someone. A few days later, Finn Burke came to our house for dinner. He had broad shoulders and a narrow waist, his silver-grey suit lending him an air of both dignity and refinement. He was no longer the somewhat impoverished and unassuming boy I remembered from high school. My heart gave a violent lurch, and I wished I could just bury my head beneath the table. 2 My parents, both professors, had countless accomplished students, yet I was their sole “bitter fruit.” My academic record was dismal, but I was a virtuoso when it came to dating. Throughout high school, I barely had any time between boyfriends. I’d dated them all: the school bully, the straight-A student, even the sweet but dim-witted blond surfer types. Finn was a year my senior and consistently ranked first in the entire school. He was the impoverished student in the faded uniform, his top button always meticulously fastened. And he was also the unapproachable, ice-cold figure, like a peak of a snow-capped mountain, who gave speeches every Monday at the flag-raising ceremony. One time, I was a minute late for school. Right at the gate, I was snagged by Finn, who was on discipline duty. “Oh, come on, just help me out, please?” Few could resist my charm offensive, especially for just a mere minute’s tardiness. Finn lifted his thin eyelids and glanced at me, utterly unmoved. With chilling indifference, he jotted down my name. 3 This guy was utterly infuriating. My best friend, Brittany, had a good laugh at my expense, so I made a bet with her: I’d pursue Finn and make him my boyfriend. I just couldn’t believe he’d keep that lifeless expression even with a girlfriend, right? He still had a year until graduation, and during his tenure on discipline duty, I could pretty much stroll in late or skip class whenever I pleased, couldn’t I? Brittany chuckled, saying, “Don’t forget me when you get rich.” I’d never dated anyone like Finn, so I was brimming with confidence. I poured all my accumulated wisdom into a love letter for him. The next day, as he carried a stack of assignments back to his classroom, I bit my lower lip shyly and handed it to him. Finn gave me a half-smile, his long fingers taking the letter from my grasp. I thought it would be a cinch, but after half a month of sending him love letters, he remained unyielding. Just my luck, my ex-boyfriend, Caleb Hayes, returned from an intensive training camp out of town. In the equipment room, he had me pinned against a table, kissing me. This precise moment was witnessed by Finn, on discipline patrol, and the student council members trailing behind him. 4 My ex-boyfriend, Caleb, the school’s resident bad boy, had me pressed between a desk and his body. “Baby, let’s get back together. I promise I’ll never make you angry again.” Caleb was handsome and flamboyant, a magnet for girls at school. Yet, in front of me, he was like a docile, oversized Mastiff. He was an expert kisser and incredibly good at teasing. Every time we kissed, he’d lift the hem of his shirt, guiding my hand to feel his perfectly sculpted eight-pack abs. I was naturally drawn to handsome men of all types. Being with Caleb had always been—well, let’s just say I was well-fed. But his possessiveness was overwhelming. If I went out to buy a bottle of water, he’d suspect I was cheating. Forget about me even smiling at another guy. We’d had countless arguments because of it. I was exhausted. Less than a month into our relationship, I couldn’t take it anymore and broke up with him. “No, you’re too clingy. I hate people who try to control me so much.” “I’ll change, I promise. How about that?” His voice was lazy, thick with affection. Caleb set me on the desk, his hands on my waist, as he leaned down, apologizing for his mistakes. Student council members patrolled the school daily, busting early relationships, stopping bullying… Finn, with several other student council members trailing him, pushed open the door. His eyes, frozen with coldness, looked at Caleb and me as if he’d caught us in the act. The students behind him quickly picked up their pens and started scribbling in their notebooks. I scrambled off the desk, my heart pounding with dread. Caleb didn’t even flinch. He adjusted the collar of my school shirt, then turned his head. “Write whatever you want. Just finish up and leave. Don’t interrupt me trying to win back my girlfriend.” He was a baseball player, having just won first place in his training camp and brought honor to the school, so he certainly had the capital to be arrogant. Later, after Caleb’s relentless pursuit, I got back together with him. My bet with Brittany about chasing Finn simply fizzled out. 5 That year, Finn scored the highest in the entire state on his college entrance exams, earning him a spot at State University. His high score remained unbroken, making him a legend throughout the high school. After that, I never saw him again. To my utter shock, the unapproachable “ice prince” I’d given up on pursuing years ago was now my blind date. He was a successful professional, also serving as an honorary university professor. His eyes had shed their bookish stiffness and youthful awkwardness, replaced by the distinct charm of a mature man. I was completely taken aback that Finn had agreed to a blind date with me. We sat across from each other by the floor-to-ceiling window of a fancy Western restaurant. He twirled the water glass between his fingers, then asked directly, “When can we get married?” His family was pressing him hard. And as for me, I genuinely needed a marriage partner at the moment. Finn’s Adam’s apple bobbed as he listed the advantages of marrying him: he wouldn’t interfere with anything I did, and he’d agree to a separation whenever I wished. After some thought, he seemed like the most suitable candidate for marriage. We would each get what we needed, without any emotional strings attached. 6 After getting our marriage license, I followed him back to our marital home. That evening, after showering, I lay in bed scrolling through my phone. The gentle patter of water from the bathroom soon stopped. Click. First, a rush of steamy air escaped. Then, a tall, well-built man, wrapped in a towel, revealing an impressive eight-pack, appeared strikingly before me. Finn was over six feet three inches tall. It was clear that one of his arms was twice the circumference of mine. I bit my lip, feeling a shameful flicker of desire. Finn pulled back the covers and got into bed. The crisp, minty scent of him enveloped me, surprisingly pleasant. He leaned against the headboard, putting on anti-glare glasses to read a physics research paper. He wasn’t planning on us sleeping in separate rooms? What was I supposed to do? Distractedly, I scrolled through my phone, texting Brittany, my best friend. “It’s your wedding night! You’re not getting it on with your super hot husband, and you have time to text me?” “I’m not even going to mention whose loss that body difference is.” I’d meant to use voice-to-text, but just then, Finn called my name. The next second, Brittany’s clear voice boomed through the quiet bedroom. The air instantly froze, and I felt my scalp tingle with embarrassment. Finn gently placed his book on the nightstand. “Anya, ready for bed?” My mind went blank. Uh, what? Finn took off his glasses, slid down, and leaned over me. A mint-scented kiss landed softly on my lips. Wait, he meant sleep, as in actual sleep, not sleep, as in… that! Finn was a very well-endowed man. In my teenage years, watching those explicit movies with Brittany, fifteen inches seemed like an incredible feat. I wrapped my arms loosely around his firm shoulders, thinking Finn surely topped eighteen. On our wedding night, we made love three times. The first time, he was careful. The second, he held back. The third, he indulged slightly. I was due on set soon, and I wondered if I’d even be able to walk. With tears in my eyes, I pleaded, “No more, please. I’m really at my limit.” Finn’s sweat dripped onto my neck as he carefully watched my reaction, then frowned and withdrew. He first carried me to the bathroom to clean up. Afterwards, I heard sounds of him satisfying himself in the bathroom alone. I bit my lip, silently pulling the covers over my head, muffling the low, husky groans. Again, I thought that a marriage without love, just sex, was pretty good. Physical satisfaction, no strings attached—mutual respect. 7 Soon after, Finn packed his bags, announcing he was going abroad for a business trip, with no fixed return date. I quickly joined the cast of “The Crown Princess.” It was a palace intrigue drama, and I was, once again, playing the villainous second female lead. As I was practicing my lines, a shadow suddenly appeared in the mirror. Then, a pair of hands rested on my shoulders. “Girlfriend, we meet again.” It was Ethan Vance, who had shot to fame after a massively popular BL drama, amassed countless loyal fans online, and recently won the Best New Actor award for a film. In our previous project, we’d co-starred in a high school romance. He was the male lead, I was the second female lead. Our on-screen chemistry as a couple actually outshone the main leads. Now, he was enjoying unprecedented fame in the entertainment industry. At some point, the entire lounge had emptied, leaving just me. I stood up, turned around, and put some distance between us, pulling the sheer fabric of my costume higher to cover my shoulders. “Ethan, please don’t joke around, it’s just acting.” Ethan took a step closer to me, leaning in to whisper in my ear, “To be honest, I’ve actually been thinking about making it real.” “I just landed a new movie role, and there’s a spot for the second female lead that I think would be perfect for you. How about we discuss it privately in my room tonight?” His men’s cologne was strong and bold. I instinctively wrinkled my nose. I wasn’t an idiot; I knew exactly what he meant. I smiled, “No thanks, my schedule is a bit packed these days.” “You’re turning down such a great opportunity?” Ethan clicked his tongue. Seeing someone approaching, he quickly composed himself and left. 8 I thought the matter would quietly blow over. But Ethan, true to form, decided to stir up trouble. While I was getting my makeup done, the director suddenly announced a change: the first scene would now be one where I’m humiliated by homeless men. “How can this be? Anya hasn’t even had time to memorize the lines!” My agent, Gwen, who was visiting the set, exclaimed, clutching the notice. “And this scene wasn’t even in the original script!” The assistant director grumbled, “What’s the big deal? There aren’t many lines in this scene anyway, just focus on your expressions. Last-minute additions, cuts, and script changes are normal. You guys are always making a fuss.” He then rolled his eyes and left. The entertainment industry was in a downturn, and good roles were hard to come by. Perhaps the director had his reasons. So, I obediently followed instructions. What I hadn’t anticipated was that this was Ethan’s obedience test, a test that nearly left me with lifelong psychological trauma. 9 After my makeup change, I lay draped in a transparent veil, half-reclining on a soft chaise. Soon, several actors entered, dressed in dirty, ragged homeless clothes, their eyes murky. With a shout of “Action!” several hands began to roam over my body. The scant fabric of my costume, barely covering me, was almost ripped off. Someone even took the opportunity to pinch my waist amidst the chaos, then grinned lewdly at me. This went far beyond the scope of acting, exceeding my psychological threshold. The set was a cacophony of noise, and I cried out in alarm, “Get off me! Don’t touch me!” Despite clearly breaking character and reacting strongly, no one called “Cut!” The extras didn’t stop; they became even more aggressive. I smashed the liquor decanter nearby. The prop was expensive, and that finally brought them to a halt. My tears and snot had long smeared together, and I hugged myself tightly, trying to catch my breath. “My apologies, Anya. We just thought you were still in character,” the director said casually from behind the camera. 10 I tidied my clothes and went to the monitor room to find the main director. I wanted to tell him that audiences weren’t interested in such scenes anymore. But then I saw Ethan handing him a cigarette. I heard them talking: “Ethan, adding this scene was a good idea, but it probably won’t pass censorship.” “We can just cut it out later, leave only the wide shots.” Ethan noticed me and walked out. I followed him to an deserted area where several RVs were parked. Outside the set, a few young girls held up Ethan’s posters, screaming “Brother, brother!” frantically. “Anya, I actually really like you. How about we date secretly?” “You know how many A-list and B-list actresses and idols have pursued me, and I’ve turned them all down.” “But if it’s you… I might give it a try. I have a lot of resources. Even if I just drop a few crumbs, it’ll put you in a much better position than you are now.” He spoke casually, a cigarette held between the fingers of one hand, the other reaching out to touch my face, his expression one of confident determination. I disgustedly turned my head away, raising an eyebrow. “Sorry, I have a boyfriend.” Ethan shrugged, looking nonchalant. “Lying to me? If you really do, bring him out. Then I won’t bother you.” His agent was looking for him. Luckily, I had been prepared and turned off my phone’s recording feature, finally feeling a sense of relief. If it came down to it, it would be a lose-lose situation. At worst, I’d just quit acting. 11 As dusk began to fall, I walked towards my trailer, phone in hand. Finn’s call came through. He asked if there still hurt, if the swelling had gone down after three days. Just as I was about to hang up, I suddenly asked, “Finn, when are you coming back?” “If you’re back in the country, could you pick me up from the set?” Perhaps it was the sting of recent humiliations, but a rare catch entered my voice, and my toes unconsciously scuffed the dirt beneath my feet. “Anya, what’s wrong?” His voice softened deliberately, like he was comforting a child. I opened my mouth to speak. “Mr. Burke, the client has been waiting for you in the conference room for five minutes. You need to go immediately.” His secretary was rushing him to a meeting. I hung up abruptly, then belatedly tapped my head. We were merely a contract couple. How could I possibly be acting so vulnerable and childish with him? I must have lost my mind.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “391138”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

In my previous life, I resented Emily, the fake daughter, for occupying the place that rightfully belonged to me. I fought for and snatched at Emily’s belongings, earning myself a reputation for being consumed by jealousy. My biological father, Mr. Davies, claimed I had been corrupted, brandishing a belt to discipline me. My biological mother, Mrs. Davies, tearfully pushed me away: “If I had known you would become like this, I would rather not have given birth to you.” My brother, Henry, shielded Emily behind him: “My sister should be as pure and kind as Emily.” “You are so malicious; you don’t deserve to be my sister.” But they all forgot that I, too, should have grown up carefree by their side. Fine, if you prefer someone pure and kind. Then in this life, I will be that pure and kind girl. And I will make you willingly offer everything I desire. 1 When I opened my eyes again, I was back on the day I was brought home to the Davies family. My biological parents were filled with guilt. They decorated my room like a princess’s, but its location was poor, facing north, deprived of sunlight. The two best rooms on the second floor were given to my brother, Henry, and to Emily, the fake daughter. In my previous life, because of the room issue, on the very first day I returned, I had a huge fight with my birth parents. I demanded why they hadn’t reserved the best room for me. I was determined to claim Emily’s room, scattering her belongings everywhere. Eventually, Emily, with red-rimmed eyes, conceded. “This room always belonged to Anya. Now that she’s back, it’s only right that I give it to her.” Under the guilty gazes of the whole family, she moved all her things into the guest room. “I never truly belonged in this family anyway, so let me stay here. As long as Anya feels better, I don’t care what happens to me.” I got the best room as I wished. But the very next day, my parents quietly transferred ownership of a luxurious apartment to Emily. “Emily, Anya was being unreasonable. Consider this apartment an apology from Mom and Dad on Anya’s behalf. If you’re ever unhappy, you can move in whenever you like.” “Mmm, thank you, Mom and Dad.” Emily hugged my mother, her suppressed tears making my parents’ hearts ache. Then, thinking of my unreasonable self, they sighed helplessly. 2 This time, I still didn’t step into the room prepared for me. I kept my lips tightly pressed together, standing by the doorway, my gaze lowered. “Mom, can I switch rooms?” “What’s wrong? Is the room not good enough?” My birth mother thought I was dissatisfied with the room and quickly took my hand, asking. I shook my head. “The room is wonderful. I never dreamed of living in such a beautiful room.” “But… everything is too perfect. So perfect that I’m afraid it’s all a dream, and it might just disappear suddenly.” I let my eyes well up with tears at just the right moment. My birth mother’s grip tightened, pulling my hand more firmly. “Silly child, of course not. This is real. Mom and Dad brought you home, and from now on, this is your home. You can do whatever you want in your own home.” Is that so? Yet, in my previous life, why did I have to resort to a hysterical argument just to get a room that was already mine? Why, when I asked for what was rightfully mine, did you make me feel like I was being unreasonable? “Mom, are you really serious?” My birth mother nodded. “Then, can I change rooms?” I insisted strongly, and my birth mother reluctantly gave in. “Alright, there are plenty of empty rooms. Pick whichever one you like, live wherever you want.” As my birth mother said this, I distinctly felt Emily, standing behind her, tremble slightly. My gaze passed over them, settling on Emily’s room. Emily’s pupils contracted sharply, and she instinctively clenched her fists. I deliberately kept my gaze fixed, standing still as if in deep thought. Then, just before Emily seemed to make some decision, I suddenly spoke. “Mom, I want to stay in that one.” My fingertip swept past Emily’s room, then past Henry’s room, finally landing on the staff quarters downstairs. My birth mother followed my gaze. Seeing which room I indicated, a flicker of embarrassment crossed her face. She quickly exchanged a glance with my birth father, then forced a smile. “Anya, dear, that room is for the household staff. It’s small and cramped. How could you stay there?” “Sweetheart, be a good girl, let’s pick another one.” I shook my head, a look of longing on my face. “I think it’s wonderful. It has a comfortable bed and its own bathroom.” “I used to think that if I could ever live in such a nice room in this lifetime, I would die content. I never thought that day would actually come.” “Mom,” I pleaded, looking at my birth mother, “Can I have this wish?” “This…” My parents’ eyes darted between each other, their faces cycling through shades of red and white, like a colorful painting. Seeing that my parents didn’t know how to respond, Emily stepped forward to mediate. “How can this be? Why don’t you take my…” “Thank you, Mom and Dad.” Before Emily could finish, I cut her off directly, effectively silencing anything else she was about to say. This time, I wouldn’t give her the chance to display her gentle kindness. I turned and skipped downstairs, feigning an air of great happiness. Mom and Dad, you like kind and sensible daughters, don’t you? You feel guilty, don’t you? Well, now that your own biological daughter is suffering, how much guilt will you feel? 3 Early the next morning, the Davies family was woken by the sound of pots and pans clattering and breaking in the kitchen. When they came downstairs, I was on the floor, picking up shards. “Hiss~” The sharp edge of a broken bowl cut my rough fingertips. Blood immediately welled from the wound. Did it hurt? Not really. Compared to the beatings from my adoptive father, Mr. Evans, this was nothing. But my eyes still welled up with tears. I cautiously looked up, meeting my parents’ bewildered gazes. “I’m sorry, Mom and Dad, I woke you.” “I just wanted to make breakfast for you, but the cabinet was too high for me to reach.” “So, I accidentally…” I lowered my head, not daring to look at them, trembling as I softly sobbed. Like a startled little rabbit. In my previous life, I had seen Emily act this way countless times. So, in this life, I had her act down pat. Sure enough, my birth mother ignored the shards on the floor and stepped right in, carefully pulling me out of the kitchen. “Child, we have a chef. You don’t need to cook.” My birth mother asked the housekeeper to bring the first aid kit and meticulously tended to my wound. I sniffled. “I’m sorry, Mom, it’s just become a habit.” “My adoptive father said if I didn’t work, he wouldn’t feed me.” “Mom, the taste of hunger isn’t pleasant. I don’t want to go hungry again.” My birth mother’s hand suddenly froze. They had investigated everything I had been through, knowing every detail. They felt guilty about me. In my previous life, it was the same. But they thought that by simply making amends, they could erase their guilt. And my daily jealousy provided them with a convenient excuse to dismiss that guilt. My birth mother looked away, raising a hand to wipe her face. She was crying. But this wasn’t enough. “Mom, it’s all my fault. Please don’t be sad.” I reached out and wrapped my arms around my birth mother’s neck. My oversized sleeve fell away, revealing the scars on my arm. “Anya, what happened to your arm?” My birth father, standing nearby, noticed the scars at once. My birth mother snapped out of it. Just as I was about to pull my arm back, she grabbed my wrist. She lifted my sleeve. A series of horrifying scars were exposed. My birth mother’s tears could no longer be held back. She hugged me, crying heartbrokenly, “My child, my poor child.” Even my birth father, usually so calm, wise, and unreadable, couldn’t help but get misty-eyed. In my previous life, when faced with my scars, they had merely looked away, advising me, “The past is the past. You need to learn to move forward.” “You have enough to eat and wear now. Don’t keep bringing up the past.” Back then, I was like a madwoman. I accused them of being unfit parents, of showing favoritism. It turns out, sometimes, the crazier you act, the less pity you receive. The calmer you are, the more people empathize. My past self thought that acting out would awaken their guilt. How foolish. 4 Under my deliberate display of vulnerability, my parents’ pity for me grew day by day. In contrast, they paid less attention to Emily. Emily had grown up being pampered by the family. Naturally, she was somewhat displeased by this shift in affection. But I had taken her path, leaving her no opportunity to showcase her understanding and kindness. She sat on the opposite sofa, watching us—a seemingly happy family of three—like a stranger. My peripheral vision secretly focused on her. Her pale fingertips repeatedly kneaded the throw pillow in her hands, her eyes filled with tears. Was she hurting? In my previous life, I felt the same way. My unreasonableness made my parents gradually lose faith in me. Emily, with her sweet words and kind heart, made my parents beam with joy. The three of them sat across from me, just as they are now, flaunting their happiness. To them, it seemed I was the outsider. If I were truly unrelated to them, it might not have mattered. But that warm family affection, that should have been mine. Watching everything that was rightfully mine being taken by another, my heart ached no less than Emily’s did now. … My parents, under my subtle guidance, now thought of me first for everything. Even the luxurious apartment they had given Emily in the previous life was now mine. “Anya, we know you’re still getting used to things after coming back, so Mom and Dad want to give you your own independent space. If you ever feel uncomfortable in this house, you can move in there anytime.” I looked at the name on the property deed, a cynical sneer forming in my heart. Indeed, money flows to those who don’t need it, and love flows to those who aren’t deprived of it. In my previous life, I lacked both, yet they gave them to Emily, who lacked neither. In this life, even after trying their best to make amends, they still felt it wasn’t enough and wanted to give more. But who would complain about having too much wealth? I feigned a slight refusal, then reluctantly accepted. I was genuinely worried that one day, I might suddenly be cast out, just like in my previous life. Having more security always seemed like a good idea.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “391137”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

“Eight coins, no more, no less, tossed into the engine for good luck.” The frantic flashing of the dashboard alarms sent a cold sweat down my uniform. “Oh, come on, it’s a holiday! Doesn’t that turbine look just like a wishing well? I just threw in a few coins for good fortune.” The new flight attendant, a Gen Z, chewed gum nonchalantly while touching up her makeup. “I only tossed in eight, for ‘prosperity,’ to bless our flight with a safe journey.” “This is a jet engine! Foreign object ingestion can lead to an in-flight breakup, destroying the plane and killing everyone on board! You’re trying to murder everyone on this aircraft!” “You’re being so dramatic! I was doing it for everyone’s good. What’s a few coins going to do?” She rolled her eyes, grabbed a bag of crisps from the cart, and tossed it at the cockpit door. “Here, have some crisps. Calm down, alright?” “Making such a fuss over nothing. You’re so provincial. Just take off already, you pathetic man!” I slammed my hand on the cabin door switch, locking the air bridge. “Are you insane? I’m going to expose you!” “You won’t have to. Air Traffic Control has already called the authorities. Endangering public safety. You’ll be having your holiday dinner at the station this year!” … Urgent footsteps echoed down the air bridge. Maksim, the Operations Manager, was the first to burst in, his face ashen. “Who told you to lock the door? Open it right now!” He pointed at the cockpit door, yelling at me. “Captain, are you trying to get fired? Have you calculated how much the company gets fined for every minute of delay?” “Mr. Maksim, a foreign object has been ingested into the engine. We cannot take off.” Lenore immediately squeezed past him, clinging to Maksim’s side, tears instantly welling up. “Mr. Maksim, you have to stand up for me!” She pointed at me, her voice choked with sobs. “I just threw in a few coins for good luck, and he called me a murderer and threatened to have me arrested.” “He even yelled at me in front of everyone. I was so scared.” “So many VIP clients are waiting on board. Whose fault will it be if we’re delayed?” Maksim immediately shielded Lenore behind him, glaring at me. “You’re a grown man, why are you arguing with a young lady? It’s just a few coins!” He pointed his finger at my nose. “Do you even know what an engine is made of? Titanium alloy! The hardest metal in the world! What could a few coins possibly do to it?” “I’ve been in management for years, and I’ve never seen such an irresponsible pilot!” “You’re scaremongering! This is professional negligence!” I pulled out my phone, intending to show him the engine photos I’d just taken. “It’s regulation. Any foreign object ingestion requires a grounded inspection.” Maksim swatted my phone away and pulled out his walkie-talkie. “Tower, cancel the alert. It was an internal crew misunderstanding.” He barked into the walkie-talkie, then turned to me, his voice chilling. “For the company’s on-time performance assessment at the end of the year, this plane will fly today.” “Whatever happens, I, Maksim, will take responsibility!” I ignored him, firmly blocking the cockpit door. “I am the Captain. I make the final call on this aircraft.” I pulled out my flight manual from my pocket and flipped to the section on foreign object damage. “The manual states that suspected foreign object damage must be confirmed by maintenance. Not taking off is just a delay. Taking off is a catastrophe.” “I have the final authority.” Maksim scoffed, laughing angrily, and tore the four stripes from my shoulder. “Captain? Do you really think you’re someone important?” He slammed the epaulets onto the ground, pointing at Lenore behind me. “This young lady had good intentions, wishing good fortune for everyone on board. Don’t you understand social graces? No wonder you’re single!” I looked at the epaulets on the ground, saying nothing. Maksim’s mood shifted faster than flipping a page. He turned to Lenore, his voice softening. “Don’t worry, Lenore. The manager is here.” “These kinds of pilots are just uncultured. Don’t pay him any mind.” He put an arm around Lenore’s shoulder, as if comforting a child who had suffered a great injustice. “Come on, I’ll take you to first class to relax and have some champagne to calm your nerves.” Lenore, teary-eyed, nodded. As she passed me, she cast a triumphant glance. Before leaving, Maksim picked up the interphone in the air bridge. “Ladies and gentlemen, we apologize for the inconvenience, but due to the Captain’s sudden personal health issue, this flight will be delayed for some time.” “His emotional state is currently unstable, and for everyone’s safety, we need a moment to address the situation.” His voice echoed throughout the air bridge and the cabin. I listened to the broadcast, to the murmurs and discussions beginning in the cabin, and clenched my fists. The next day, the company’s official notice came down. “Captain Luke Miller is suspended from all flying duties pending further review due to a lack of big-picture thinking, insubordination, and causing a significant flight delay.” The memo was circulated to all departments, effectively a public execution. I returned to the flight preparation room to pack my personal belongings. Lenore was sitting in my usual seat, scrolling through her phone and slurping spicy noodles. The pungent smell filled the entire room. My flight bag was under her feet, and my flight log, placed beneath her noodle bowl, was soaked with a large red oil stain. Seeing me enter, she didn’t even lift an eyelid, spitting a gnawed chicken bone onto my desk. I walked over, wanting to retrieve my flight log. Annoyed by my presence, Lenore pulled out my flight checklist. It was a checklist I’d used for ten years, every page filled with notes and insights. Without even looking, she muttered disdainfully, “What a piece of junk.” Then she grabbed it, wiped the oil from the corners of her mouth, crumpled it into a ball, and casually tossed it into the nearby trash can. “What are you looking at?” Lenore swung her phone, raising an eyebrow triumphantly. “Mr. Maksim said this VIP prep room is now exclusively mine.” “You pathetic man, you don’t deserve to be in here anymore.” She shoved her phone screen in my face, the bright social media interface glaring. The title read: “Beware! Arrogant Pilot Maliciously Delays Flight and Tries to Arrest Me Out of Jealousy for My Youthful Beauty!” The photo was a side profile of me, accompanied by her tearful selfie. The comments section had exploded. “This guy is so pathetic. Why wouldn’t he let the beautiful young lady pray for good fortune?” “A road-raging pilot is terrifying. He should be banned for life!” “He looks like a creep. Maybe he tried to hit on her, failed, and got mad?” “Dug it up! His parents are just regular factory workers. No wonder his personality is so dark.” Someone had already doxxed my home address and phone number. “Everyone, let’s go flood his accounts! Let him know we young ladies aren’t to be trifled with!” I felt a wave of suffocation. Maksim happened to pass by the door. Seeing the scene, he didn’t stop it. Instead, he patted Lenore’s shoulder. “Well done. You understand how to use new media to maintain our company’s positive image.” “This is the new generation our company needs, much better than some of the old guard.” He turned to me, his face grim, and ordered. “Luke, what are you standing there for? Apologize to Lenore right now!” “How much negative impact have you caused your colleague and the company with your impulsiveness? Can you bear that responsibility?” I didn’t look at him, nor at Lenore. I silently bent down and picked up the oil-stained flight checklist from the trash can. I carefully unfolded it, smoothing out the creases. Then, I turned and left the preparation room. My eyes, however, had turned to ice. I didn’t go home; I went straight to the hangar. “Miller, these are the coins found on the tarmac – eight of them. And here’s the preliminary damage report. Take it.” I took the evidence bag and the report. “I also copied the tarmac surveillance footage for you, just in case,” Old Robert whispered. I took photos and, along with pictures of the torn checklist, saved them all into an encrypted folder. “Thanks, mate.” “No worries. We all believe you. That woman and Maksim have been lording it over everyone for ages. We’ve been fed up with them.” Three days later, the non-destructive testing report from the engine’s original manufacturer arrived. The email from the German engineer included detailed endoscope photos and data analysis. The conclusion: eight coins were ingested the moment the engine started, leading to severe curling and fracturing of 18 fan turbine blades, and multiple internal damages to the core engine. Repair solution: replace the entire engine. Estimated cost: 30 million Euros. The report was immediately escalated to the Civil Aviation Authority. The CAA swiftly formed an investigation team, classifying the incident as a “serious flight safety hazard.” The company was immediately ordered to suspend some routes for rectification. The entire company was in an uproar. When Maksim’s call came, I was at home organizing evidence. “Luke Miller, get your backside to the company right now!” His voice roared through the phone. I walked into Maksim’s office. Lenore was there too, sobbing on the sofa. Maksim slammed a German report onto my face. “You’re so capable, aren’t you? You’re the Captain, aren’t you? The plane is your responsibility, so why didn’t you stop her from throwing coins?” “Now you’ve caused such a huge mess. Are you deliberately trying to ruin the company?” The edge of the paper cut my face, burning hot. Lenore cried even harder, pointing at me through her tears. “I’m just a child! I didn’t know anything! How was I supposed to know that thing was so precious?” “It’s all because the engine wasn’t made strong enough! How could it break with just a few coins thrown in?” “You’re the Captain! Why didn’t you tell me earlier? Were you deliberately trying to make me look bad, trying to ruin me?” Maksim pulled out a printed document from his drawer and slapped it on the table. “This is the ‘Accident Liability Report.’ Sign it now.” I picked it up. It stated in black and white that the cause of the accident was my “negligence in pre-flight inspection, failing to detect foreign objects on the runway,” subtly changing the nature of “deliberate coin throwing” to “accidental ingestion.” They even had a backup plan, ready for me to admit it was a “bird strike.” “You take responsibility for this, and the matter will be closed.” Maksim stared at me, his eyes dark. “If you don’t sign, the company will notify the entire industry and revoke your pilot’s license. You’ll never touch a cockpit again in your life.” “I know all the recruitment managers at every airline. I guarantee you won’t even find a ground staff job!” “The company’s reputation has been damaged because of you, and we’ll demand 30 million in compensation from you!” I looked at these two legal ignoramuses performing their charade in front of me and suddenly smiled. I put down the report and asked calmly, “Are you sure you want to fabricate an aviation accident investigation report to cover up a mistake?”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “391136”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel