Author: Momo Chan

After redeeming the villain with love and preventing his descent into darkness, I was joyfully preparing for retirement. But when I woke up, the blackened villain from another timeline was standing by my bed. And the villain I had saved just happened to push open the door and walk in. They stared at each other. I clutched my head in agony: “System!! Fix the bug quickly! Ahhh!” Later, my retirement plan was completely scrapped. The little villain hugged my waist with teary eyes, begging me not to leave. The big villain pressed against my neck, leaving a circle of teeth marks. 1 I am the older brother of the male lead, Caleb. Three years older, no blood relation. I’ve been by his side since I was one. He was afraid of thunder, I held him to sleep. He was beaten, I fought back for him. He was abandoned, I took him in. I taught him, shaped his worldview, and set his moral standards. Why go to such lengths? All of this was for my own grand plan. I have a secret. I am an employee of the World Administration Bureau. The System detected that the villain in this world was too powerful and would exterminate the male and female leads in the future. So it sent me to save the villain, Caleb. As long as his blackening value reaches zero, not only can I receive a huge sum of money, but I can also welcome my retirement! A retirement life where I get paid every month for doing nothing! I worked diligently without any negligence. Finally, on Caleb’s 18th birthday. As Caleb made a wish and blew out the candles, a mechanical system voice also came: [Congratulations Host, the villain Caleb’s blackening value has been cleared.] Finally!!!! I was ecstatic, wishing I could dance on the spot. But on the surface, I still calmly patted Caleb’s head, fulfilling my duty as an adopted brother. “Caleb, you’re an adult now. You can’t always cry, you have to be independent.” “Big brother can’t be by your side every moment.” Caleb nodded obediently. “Thank you, brother.” Suddenly he asked: “Will brother stay with me forever?” I hesitated for a moment, but still answered: “Of course, brother promises you.” Ate some cake as a gesture. I pulled up the quilt happily, my mind full of thoughts about retirement life. I should be able to return to the main world tomorrow. My identity will be replaced by someone from another department. Although I do have feelings for this child. I can still come back to see him with another identity. After all, having raised him for so long, I really treat him as a younger brother. The cold wind of the winter night raged, but I slept soundly with the heater on. Suddenly felt a chill on my stomach in the middle of the night. I struggled groggily to wake up. Just opened my eyelids a crack, vaguely seeing a shadow. Moving around on my chest. Sleepiness pulled me down again. I didn’t see clearly. 2 The next day, I opened my eyes with satisfaction. A dreamless night, I was just about to ask the System when I could go back. But found something wrong. A figure was standing by my bed. I turned my head blankly. The features were basically identical to Caleb’s, just more mature. I called out dumbly: “Caleb?” The man didn’t respond, just hooked the corner of his mouth slightly, a hint of interest surfacing in his eyes. Just as he was about to speak, the door was pushed open. Eighteen-year-old Caleb pushed open the door, face full of smiles: “Brother! Wake…” I clearly saw the smile on his face drop rapidly, running over with a wary look. Blocking between me and the mature Caleb. “Who are you?” Cold as ice. That man was taller, his temperament more composed. He stepped back slightly in his leather shoes. “I am Caleb. And you? Little Caleb?” Little Caleb’s face showed a bit of disillusionment. He turned to look at me, looking a bit fragile. “Brother, what’s going on?” Watching him grow up since childhood, I felt his expression was a bit strange. But I didn’t think too much about it. I was also freaking out right now, frantically pinging the System. [System!! What’s going on ahhh, where did this male lead come from ahhh!] [Looks so scary! This is not the kid I can control at all!] Half a moment later, the System’s mechanical voice came: [Host, this is the Caleb who ruined the male and female leads’ families.] [A bug appeared in the main world, bringing Caleb from another timeline over.] [Be careful, this Caleb is very dangerous.] I sat up immediately, reaching out to hold Little Caleb’s hand. Cold wind poured into my quilt, I shivered subconsciously. Little Caleb immediately took a coat and draped it over me, staring covetously at the Blackened Version Caleb. Blackened Caleb raised an eyebrow, looking at me strangely. Suddenly bent down and touched my face. “Where did you come from? I’ve never seen you.” Little Caleb slapped away the hand touching me like a wolf cub. “Get lost, you’re the one who came from nowhere.” The other Caleb wasn’t in a hurry either, dragged a chair and sat down. Watching Little Caleb dress me and put on my socks, he finally spoke: “So… you haven’t mastered the Helios network yet?” Little Caleb paused. This was originally the inevitable path for the blackened Caleb. But I have been preventing him from contacting these dark things. Caleb understands himself so well, he knew just by looking at his own expression. “You mastered it… What? Don’t want him to know?” Saying this, he cast his gaze towards me. I widened my eyes. Looked at Little Caleb. “Caleb! Didn’t I say?” Little Caleb lowered his eyes aggrievedly. “You believe whatever he says.” The angry words I wanted to say got stuck in my throat, took a deep breath. “So, did you do it or not, no lying.” Little Caleb didn’t speak for a long time. My chest felt tight with anger. And Blackened Caleb was watching the show on the stool. His expression was a bit strange yet amused. “Caleb… let me talk to him. I am you, there are many things I think he doesn’t want to know, right?” Little Caleb was like an enraged lion. “Impossible!” “I’ll talk to you.” I glared at him, stepped out the door, and said coldly to Little Caleb: “Stay put obediently.” Then waved to the other Caleb. “You come over.” I was also freaking out inside. My grand retirement plan, ruined just like that. Caleb followed behind me at a leisurely pace. I could feel him sizing me up. From top to bottom. Like looking at some rare toy. I turned around unhappily to meet his eyes. Dark and deep, completely different from Little Caleb. Twenty-six-year-old Caleb was already so tall, very oppressive. I glared at him with a cold face, leading the way again. Blackened Caleb touched his nose and smiled slightly. Only then did I feel the gaze wasn’t so obvious anymore. I pushed open the study door and sat down. Blackened Caleb sat opposite me with legs slightly apart. “Kitten, what’s your name?” I ignored his teasing words, answering flatly: “Adrian.” His finger tapped lightly on the table a few times, suddenly said: “Adrian, let’s play a game, okay?” “I ask a question, then you ask one, how about it?” “You go first.” I nodded in agreement; I came with the purpose of investigating him anyway. 3 I looked straight into his eyes and asked: “How did you come to this world?” Blackened Caleb hooked his lips and smiled: “This world? Adrian, you aren’t a person of this world, are you?” My heart tightened. Indeed hard to deal with, I said angrily: “Answer my question first!” He hooked my hand as if surrendering: “Okay, I woke up and was here, lying on the floor.” “Watched you for half a day, didn’t expect Adrian to love sleeping so much.” I didn’t respond. Blackened Caleb widened his eyes, looking a bit expectant: “So… Adrian, have you done it with that kid yet?” Who? When I realized it was Little Caleb, my face exploded red instantly. “What are you saying?! I’m just his brother.” Blackened Caleb chuckled lightly, with schadenfreude and a bit of “wishing iron could turn into steel”. “Haven’t even eaten that yet.” I darkened my face and asked again: “Can you go back on your own?” Blackened Caleb shrugged: “Brother, I was forced to come here, how can I go back.” Saying this, he lowered his eyebrows making a pitiful look. Looked a bit like Little Caleb. But how could I be confused by his appearance. In the original plot, he was a villain who killed without blinking an eye. Caleb raised a question again: “Brother, how long have you lived with the me of this world?” I answered calmly: “17 years.” That person muttered again: “Why weren’t you by my side?” Saying this he showed a smile again. “Do you really understand me?” Suddenly, he leaned his face close to me forcefully, as if wanting to kiss me. “Brother, believe it or not, your real brother will burst in any second.” “Do you know how many surveillance cameras are in this house?” My whole body stiffened, just wanted to resist. Suddenly, the door was flung open forcefully. Little Caleb stood at the door pursing his lips. He looked coldly at our actions. Took a big step forward and pulled Blackened Caleb away. Face looked calm, but actions were ruthless. Raised hand and punched the other Caleb hard. I heard the sound of fist hitting cheek flesh. Blackened Caleb naturally wouldn’t show weakness either. Raised foot and kicked. Watching the two punch each other several times, Little Caleb fell into a disadvantage. After all, he was still young. In chaos, I smashed the vase on the table forcefully. A tiny fragment grazed my cheek. Leaving a thin blood trail. The huge bang brought the sanity of these two guys back. I looked at these two coldly. “What are you doing?! Huh?” Little Caleb’s cheekbone and mouth corner were all bruised. The two seemed to hate each other to death. Specially aiming for the face. Little Caleb’s eyes filled with tears, walked to my side pitifully. “Brother, it hurts.” Blackened Caleb also had a few bruises on his face. He narrowed his eyes watching Little Caleb act spoiled to me. Fingers stretched slowly. Raised eyes sweeping over the fragments, spoke lightly: “Your brother is injured.” Little Caleb raised his tear-filled eyes. Saw the tiny wound on my face. Let a tear roll down from his eye. While nervously saying: “Brother sorry…” While taking out a band-aid from the study drawer. “Brother, does it hurt?” I soothingly touched the wound on his face. “You go out first, okay? I’ll apply medicine for you later.” Little Caleb shook his head. I deepened my tone. “Be obedient.” Little Caleb stiffened, could only leave looking back every three steps. Didn’t forget to glance at Blackened Caleb. Mouth instructing me: “Don’t forget to apply medicine for me later.” When Little Caleb left, Blackened Caleb gave a light tsk. Thoughtfully closed the door again. Crossed legs leaning against the table. “I also want you to apply medicine for me.” I tensed up. This wasn’t the child I could control. So I nodded slightly, said lightly: “Sure, exchange with something you think is valuable.” Blackened Caleb was slightly silent, as if weighing the item’s value. Finally spoke: “The day I came, a monk tried to scam me.” “Asked me for three hundred bucks, I was too lazy to deal with it, threw a pile of money over.” Hearing this. I quickly called the System out: [System! Is this monk related to this matter?!] System replied: [Still investigating, Host needs to stabilize this Caleb.] Blackened Caleb looked at me lightly, suddenly spoke: “Who are you talking to?” My heart tightened, this battle-hardened smelly pervert is sensitive. “Nothing.” I nonchalantly called Little Caleb in too. Blackened Caleb chuckled lightly, as if letting me off. 4 I pulled out the medical kit from under the table. Two Calebs sat on either side of me. Little Caleb looked at me with teary eyes: “Brother, I hurt so much.” Blackened Caleb chuckled, teasingly said: “Brother~ I hurt too.” Little Caleb’s wolf cub eyes instantly fixed on Blackened Caleb. “You aren’t allowed to call him brother.” I was silent, pressed the cotton swab dipped in iodine hard on both their faces. Little Caleb was used to acting spoiled and cute in the past. If it were before, he would probably ask me for a hug. But now seeing Blackened Caleb not making a sound, he also endured the pain. Little Caleb looked at me pitifully, while saying: “Brother, don’t know where this person came from! Hurry kick him out, okay?” I felt bitter inside. If I could kick him out, would Caleb need to ask? I would have done it immediately. I asked the System in my heart: [Can I just drop this world and retire directly?] The System rejected me. [Still troubleshooting the cause, persistence is victory.] I could only shake my head at Little Caleb. Blackened Caleb put away his smile, swept a glance at the childish version of himself. Spoke with schadenfreude: “Adrian, I remember I wasn’t this well-behaved at 18.” “This little cub is hiding quite a few things from you.” “Want me to say a few? Like the house full of surveillance.” “Probably even in Adrian’s bathroom.” I paused, almost fooled by Little Caleb! The surveillance matter mentioned before almost turned the page again. I put down the cotton swab, frowning at Caleb. “Caleb, speak for yourself.” Little Caleb glared at Blackened Caleb, stuttering. “I… I, I did put some cameras.” “But Brother, I just want to ensure your safety!” “Didn’t think anything else.” I narrowed my eyes slightly, Blackened Caleb beside added fuel to the fire: “There’s also Scarlett and Chase, why don’t you mention them.” Scarlett and Chase are the female and male leads of this world. Also the objects I protect in this world. Looks like Caleb still did something. But wasn’t his blackening value already cleared?! Little Caleb looked at me uneasily. Drooped his shoulders miserably, begging for mercy: “Can you not ask anymore Brother?” I sneered, swept a glance at him. “Fine, I won’t ask, I’ll go see for myself.” In the original plot, Caleb made a move on the male lead’s company because he didn’t like him. And finally succeeded! And now, under my guidance. Caleb didn’t make a move, but carefully managed his own business. I turned on the computer, the password was always my birthday. Previously I trusted Caleb, and the System background also kept showing his blackening value dropping. But now, I opened the computer folder, saw the information of the male and female leads inside. And personality analysis of each person. Caleb investigated them privately. Looks like a prelude to doing bad things no matter how you look at it! I secretly asked the System in disbelief: [Is your detection machine really okay???] System responded quite seriously: [Of course no problem! This was created by our great Main God!] Blackened Caleb suddenly laughed, I glared at him. Saw Little Caleb beside with eyes already full of tears. Pitifully about to fall. Raising him for years, every time he made a mistake he looked like this. I hardened my heart. Kicked him into the room to reflect. Before leaving, Little Caleb stared tightly at Blackened Caleb with resentful eyes. Like a venomous snake wanting to pounce and bite off his neck in an instant. Blackened Caleb swept over lightly with a faint smile. Sneered nonchalantly, walked away slowly. I never locked Caleb up. But this time the situation was too serious. And I also must deal with the bug of this world. Which is this Blackened Caleb in front of me.

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I was one of the most popular female celebrities on the internet when I suddenly announced my marriage into a wealthy family. Three months after getting married, I joined a couple’s live-stream reality show out of the blue. The whole internet mocked me. [Attention seeker. Our sister just joined this show, and she immediately glued herself to it.] [Definitely won’t be as sweet as our Harper.] [Of course not, it’s a business marriage between wealthy families. What feelings could they possibly have?] The show’s production team gave me a mission. I kept a cold face and tested my husband, saying, “I know everything.” To everyone’s shock, the usually aloof and arrogant CEO fell to his knees with a thud. Netizens: [Did he cheat? Dropping to his knees immediately?] “I borrowed some money, just for some cash flow.” Netizens: [He’s actually bankrupt! Otherwise, why would he marry an actress?] I was startled. “How much did you borrow?” His handsome face showed a hint of guilt. “It was quite expensive.” “I bought an annual SVIP subscription to a streaming platform.” “To binge-watch your TV dramas.” Netizens: [Brother-in-law, I’m crying! You really ask for the moon!] 1 The day I announced my marriage, Twitter crashed. It was a rare event. Countless netizens questioned why I was so love-struck. Abandoning a bright future to gamble on a man’s love. A group of my biggest fans and dedicated career-focused supporters were heartbroken. They publicly questioned me on Twitter: [Are you that desperate for a man?] [With your money, what kind of man can’t you find?] [Are you that starved for attention?] [We’re not stopping you from dating, but at least pick someone decent! If nothing else, look at Harper next door. Her husband is a famous director who can give her resources, and he’s super handsome.] Harper was an actress from my cohort. Our fanbases often clashed, but in reality, we didn’t interact much. Shortly after she got married, I announced my own marriage. I thought netizens would bless me just as they blessed her. But I didn’t expect… To be scolded terribly. Even though I emphasized that he was really handsome and rich. In the eyes of netizens: [When you’re infatuated, even sh*t smells good.] Right after, Harper announced she was participating in a couple’s live-stream reality show. The production team used me as a foil and tried to invite me. I originally didn’t plan on participating in this show. But a long-time fan wrote a letter saying: [Sister, we’re not against you dating. We really hope you find your own happiness. It’s just that your sudden marriage, without any build-up about your husband’s identity, and without any trace of your romance, makes us worry. We’re not against it; we’re just worried. Worried that you married the wrong person, worried that your career will stall because of this relationship, and eventually, you’ll lose both love and career. But, regardless, congratulations on finding happiness and starting a new chapter in your life. May the rest of your life be filled with joy, and may everything go smoothly. Stay happy.] I decided to join the show. Consider it an explanation to my fans. My relationship with him is actually quite good. It wasn’t a traditional arranged marriage where love comes later. There was a long period of “trial marriage” beforehand. I fell in love with him at first sight. Among the scions of wealthy families in arranged marriages, his character and looks were top-tier. Since an arranged marriage was inevitable, why not choose someone pleasing to the eye? I decided it had to be him from the very beginning. The beginning of the story: The Reserved Mr. Moore and the Passionate Miss Davis. I tirelessly recommended the TV dramas I starred in to him. Praying the big boss would invest. Also praying the big boss would be won over by my multifaceted charm. The development of the story: The Gentle Mr. Moore and the Tsundere Miss Davis. He unexpectedly visited the set where I was filming. Saw my desperate dedication. He felt bad but was moved by the light of my chasing dreams. He began escorting my career. I listened to my best friend, playing hard to get. Being a tease is the perfect solution. The climax of the story: The Refined Mr. Moore and the Successful Miss Davis. The resources he fed me, combined with my acting skills, helped me shed the “internet celebrity” label and become a respected actress. The lack of major awards was only due to insufficient seniority; I just hadn’t put in the time yet. The ending of the story: The Clingy Mr. Moore and the Composed Miss Davis. According to normal couple reality shows, our dynamic was perfectly fine. We could even gain a lot of fans. But I didn’t expect the show’s format to be a live-streamed daily life experience. With hidden cameras installed. And we couldn’t inform our partners about the hidden cameras. But some of his actions were really unbroadcastable! If broadcasted, the stream would be banned in minutes. But I had already boarded the pirate ship and couldn’t get off. The contract was signed. 2 The day the show premiered. As soon as I appeared in the live stream. The whole internet mocked me. [Attention seeker, saw our Harper joined, so you glued yourself to it too?] [So what if she joined? Definitely won’t be as sweet as our Harper. After all, that couple is publicly recognized as a perfect match.] I had just invited the cameraman in to install the hidden cameras. After netizens saw the decor of my house clearly, their tone changed a bit, but not much. [That painting? Seems like a unique piece? A 9-figure price tag?] [So she did marry into a wealthy family?] [Just a business marriage. Her husband must be ugly and frustrating, unlike Harper’s husband who is handsome and talented!] [Just using money to disguise the coldness and loneliness at home.] My husband wasn’t home yet. Bored, I clicked into Harper’s live stream. The comments were all shipping them as a couple. Hmm, so envious. Looking back at my own comments. I felt a bit stifled. I opened my phone’s chat box and asked: [How long until you get back?] Ethan Moore: [Something wrong?] I glanced at the director team; I couldn’t reveal information about the show. It was a genuine live stream of married life. I was a bit stuck. I just typed a short reply. [Nothing.] I shouldn’t have asked! The comments started a new round of mockery. [Mhm, I can tell they are a plastic couple.] [Not just an ordinary plastic couple! Look at that contact name, very official for a plastic couple.] [Just the full name. I rarely see such contact names among loving couples.] Me: … The previous contact name was a bit unpresentable. I specially changed it before coming on the show. Forget it, don’t be angry, don’t be angry. According to Ethan’s routine, he would be home in less than half an hour. The netizens’ stereotypes would be shattered immediately. I casually turned on a TV drama, preparing to boost my own view count. Less than half an hour later. The light in the entryway turned on. A man’s broad figure stepped in, wrapped in the cold wind from outside. He casually hung his dark overcoat on the coat rack nearby and loosened his tie with long, distinct fingers. His gaze swept over, softening instantly. It wasn’t until Ethan walked further in that the hidden camera captured his full face. Deep-set eyes. When his gaze fell, the surrounding air seemed to tremble slightly. A refined jawline, thin lips pressed lightly together. His steps were steady, and in his hand, he carried a sweet little cake that completely clashed with his aura. The comments went crazy instantly: [Ahhh! She really scored big!] [No one said you could meet someone this handsome in a business marriage!] [F*ck, this guy’s identity is not ordinary either, he’s the Prince of the Capital Circle!] [Sienna Davis, when you said he was handsome, you were telling the truth?! You really scored big!] [Even without love! Eating this well is worth it.] [Thought your family was rich, didn’t think they were THIS rich! Girl, how can I get your life script?] 3 He walked over quickly, not rushing to sit down, and carefully placed the cake on the coffee table. He leaned down, his warm chest pressing against me, directly pulling me into his arms, resting his chin on my shoulder. His low, husky voice was wrapped in fatigue and intimacy, “Hug.” A crisp, woody fragrance entered my nose. I was silent for a moment; his warm breath tickled the side of my neck. I tried to push him away, but he hugged me tighter. His slightly cool nose tip rubbed against my neck, getting more addicted the more he rubbed. His hot breath hit my earlobe, tinging the tip with a light red. He suddenly sat up straight, eyelashes lowered, but the corners of his eyes turned up, dark light churning in his pupils. His gaze scraped over the side of my neck inch by inch, resting on the shallow hollow of my collarbone, carrying a scorching breath. It burned my skin tight. His Adam’s apple bobbed slightly, his gaze glued to my collarbone, refusing to move. I hurriedly pushed him away. He reached out, leaning backward, ready to pull me into his arms again. I stood up, moving further away from him. His deep, dark eyes revealed hints of grievance. The comments were a bit confused: [???] [Is the Prince this clingy?] [Wait, is this right? Who said this was artificial sweetness! Look at their natural, intimate state. If we weren’t here, it’d probably be R-rated content by now!] [Actually, is it possible they knew about the live stream in advance and are acting for us?] [The Prince’s usual image is completely different from now. This is absolutely acting for us!] I remembered the first task the production team gave me. I took a deep breath, suppressing the urge to hug him. He retracted his gaze, somewhat disappointed, and pushed the little cake on the coffee table towards me. His low, husky voice carried fatigue, “Bought it passing by.” I stared at the bakery’s logo. It was in the opposite direction from the company, almost across the city. But I didn’t expose him. I just glanced lightly at the cake. Turned to look at him, and said coldly, “I know everything.” He lowered his head and eyes, a flash of panic crossing his deep pupils. My heart skipped a beat. He really had something! What was he hiding?! Looking at the camera in front of me, Director Qian’s voice came through my earpiece. “Ask again.” I braced myself, keeping my face cold. “What you did, I know it all.” “Are you going to confess yourself, or…” I took out my phone, hadn’t even started contacting anyone yet. He hurriedly pressed down on my phone and dropped to his knees with a thud. My scalp tingled. His usually proud, straight back curved, his knees smashing onto the floor without warning. The muffled thud made my heart tremble. What huge mistake did he make! Holy crap. Could it be, on the first day of the live stream. I’m going to crash and burn? And I said I’d let fans witness that I’m doing well. Now… The comments were already watching the show eagerly: [Holy crap, is this the rumored aloof Prince of the Capital Circle? What huge mistake did he make? Dropping to his knees directly?] [This look, I’ve only seen it on cheating scumbags!] [Cheating? Is it this exciting on the first day of recording?] [Hahahaha! I believe the production team has no script now, the other couple is truly sweet!] [So the initial intimacy makes sense now. After all, cheating scumbags always use this trick to comfort their wives at home.] 4 I took a deep breath, suppressed the churning emotions in my heart, maintained my cold expression, and said flatly, “Speak.” Ethan’s jawline tightened, the tips of his ears flushing with a thin red. “I borrowed some money, just for some cash flow.” The comments flooded the screen instantly. [Is he bankrupt?] [Sienna just married into the family not long ago, and he’s bankrupt? I’m afraid this is a scam targeting Sienna.] [Sigh, advised her then not to be love-struck, not to fantasize about marrying into a wealthy family, now look…] [Makes sense, if he wasn’t bankrupt, why would a wealthy family marry an actress?] [Meaning, Sienna is carrying a mountain of debt now?] I sighed softly, borrowed… some money?! My tone trembled with surprise, “How much did you borrow?” He actually used it for cash flow. I started calculating, if I divorce now. How many years would I have to work in the entertainment industry to pay off the debt? He hesitated slightly. “A bit expensive.” My vision went black. As if I could already see a dark future ahead. He continued to speak. “To subscribe to a streaming platform’s SVIP.” The comments were already getting lively: [???] [Is this the streaming SVIP I know?] [No no no, it must be the rumored dark web, definitely not a streaming platform’s SVIP!] [CEOs all have rumored unlimited black cards.] I laughed in anger. Wait, you… Are just fear-mongering! A streaming SVIP used for cash flow? He quickly added, “To binge-watch your TV dramas.” The comments went crazy, screen full of: [!!!] [You dare play us?] [Brother-in-law, you really do ask for the moon.] [No, an SVIP for a streaming platform, is it worth you using ‘cash flow’ for?] Seeing me silent. He started speaking softly again. Explaining: “I knew you had a streaming membership, but your ‘Red Beans’ (fanbase name) said nowadays TV dramas depend on new user acquisition rates and viewing duration, so I subscribed.” I raised an eyebrow, not speaking. He paused, “I know you hate the process of faking traffic and data, wanting to rely on your own strength, but for your TV drama, I still wanted to show some support.” My cold eyes lifted. “Just for this little bit of money, you used the phrase ‘cash flow’?” Director Qian’s confused voice came through the earpiece. “Does your husband not even have pocket money usually?” I felt a bit guilty, hurriedly explained smoothly. “Although your primary card is with me, didn’t I give you a supplementary card?” Ethan spoke softly, “But then wouldn’t you see the transaction history? I didn’t dare use it.” Comments: [???] [No, bro, you…] [As a CEO, shouldn’t you be arrogant, cool, domineering, and dazzling? Need ‘cash flow’ just for a streaming membership?] He paused for a moment. “As for cash flow, Carter Zane’s family situation is similar to ours.” “I borrowed the money he uses for smoking this month, promised him that once my cash flow recovers, I’ll pay him back immediately.” I took a deep breath, eyes looking indescribable. “How are you going to recover your cash flow?” His guilty gaze drifted to the little cake on the table. “This little cake, I transferred a bit more money to the shop, and the shop gave me a kickback.” I felt a bit numb. Stared silently at Ethan. Ethan suddenly hooked the corner of his mouth, “You didn’t know? You tricked me?” I felt guilty. Thinking about how to resolve this situation. He loosened his tie, speaking seamlessly. “This room, the heating is a bit strong.” Started taking off his clothes one by one. Until, only a shirt remained. Looking up, his eyes somewhat impassioned. “Sienna, do you want to tear this shirt for fun?” The comments had become screaming chickens. [Ahhh!] [No wonder Sienna saw her brother-in-law kneel and had no reaction, looks like they often play this kind of game.] [I want to see too, brother-in-law’s body should be pretty good.]

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After the story’s grand finale, I arrived fashionably late, transmigrating into the wealthy, vicious young lady of the novel. I raised my arms and cheered on the spot: “Poor for twenty-two years, suddenly striking it rich! Tonight, I’m custom-ordering a massive gold bracelet, just like a baller!” Excited heart, trembling hands. When I checked my phone balance, there was only twenty bucks left. A subscription renewal instantly deducted nineteen. Only then did it hit me. Because I was obsessed with the male lead and repeatedly framed the female lead, my family had been suppressed by the male lead until we went bankrupt. When it was time to enjoy the wealthy young lady’s life, I missed out. Bankrupt, broke, and here I am. The scorching sun made me dizzy. I fiercely threw away a half-eaten cheap hot dog and decisively threw myself in front of the male lead’s car. Ear-piercing brakes sounded. After descending from the sky, I poked my gnashing face out from the landscaping: “Hey, handsome.” “Driving skills improved, huh?” “Sent me flying twenty feet in one breath.” 1 The doors of the Rolls-Royce opened, and the male and female leads, covered in designer brands from head to toe, appeared before me. Noble and elegant. Forming a sharp contrast with my wretched state. The female lead, Chloe, looking like an obedient, fragile little white flower, covered her mouth and deliberately acted surprised: “Miss Sterling? Why are you dressed so shabbily?” Then she lifted her haute couture skirt, intending to step into the landscaping to admire my miserable state. I yelled: “Don’t come closer!” This is a crime scene, you can’t destroy it randomly. Otherwise, it’ll affect the subsequent compensation issues. Chloe’s extended hand trembled. She hesitantly pulled it back, her eyes turning red in an instant: “I know, Miss Sterling hates me and still misses Arthur.” “But we are truly in love, and we are already together.” The contempt on Arthur Vance’s face couldn’t be suppressed: “Mia Sterling, it seems your family going bankrupt wasn’t enough to teach you a lesson.” “What trick do you want to play on Chloe now?” 2 When did I ever deal with this little white flower, Chloe? It was only when she clearly knew I was engaged to Arthur, yet still acted naive, bringing breakfast to her boss rain or shine. I slapped her. When Arthur picked me up to go to his family’s estate, she sat securely in the passenger seat, smiling and saying she got carsick and didn’t want to sit in the back. I opened the passenger door and dragged her out. When the two accidentally rolled onto the same bed, she cried and said she had loved Arthur for a long time. As the male lead’s fiancée, I kicked her out of the company. How is this vicious? It’s clearly an act of justice on behalf of heaven. In this domineering CEO and his little wife novel. As long as you don’t follow the male and female leads’ wishes, you’ll be branded as vicious. Arthur couldn’t be bothered to look at me, obviously taking my act of blocking his car as my obsession with him. He put his arm around Chloe and turned to leave. The Rolls-Royce gradually moved away, becoming a phantom. Only then did I unhurriedly take out my phone and dial three numbers: “Hello, 911?” “Someone hit me with their car, got out, arrogantly scolded me, and then committed a hit-and-run!” 3 In the police station, Arthur, who had returned, sat on the side with a grim face. The young police officer couldn’t help but reprimand him: “You’re a grown man, how could you hit someone and run?” “You have money to drive a Rolls-Royce, but no money to compensate the victim?” “Do you know that a hit-and-run can lead to detention or even jail time!” I timely covered my forehead: “I’m so dizzy, I want to throw up.” The male lead’s face could no longer be described as just ugly. He stared at me gloomily, squeezing words through his teeth: “Mia Sterling, you think doing this will make me look at you one more time?” The young police officer couldn’t bear it: “Hey, turn your head around. You don’t need to look at her, look at this settlement agreement in my hand first.” “If Miss Sterling doesn’t sign it, you’re going to jail!” 4 Arthur was slightly stunned. Obviously, he hadn’t realized the severity of a hit-and-run. He tried to defend himself: “She did it on purpose for extortion.” “Are there cameras in that alley?” “…No.” “Do you have a dashcam?” “…It’s broken.” The dashcam naturally couldn’t be checked. The book wrote it. The male lead’s dashcam just happened to break, and he hadn’t had time to replace it. Arthur is a company CEO. If he goes to jail, tomorrow the stock price will plummet through the floor, and the board of directors will jointly fire him. Seeing no room for maneuver, his face tightened: “Mia Sterling, how much compensation do you want to sign the agreement?” I rubbed my head: “My head hurts so much.” “Five thousand.” “My skull seems to have comminuted fractures.” “Fifty thousand.” “How about I stay in the hospital for three to five years?” “Half a million, that should be enough!” This huge number hit my head, making me dizzy. I stood up and bowed slightly: “Boss is generous, I’ll sign immediately.” “If there are such good things like hit-and-runs in the future, remember to call me.” 5 As night fell, I dragged myself back to the urban village. Although I was fully prepared for that hit, finding the right angle to fly into the landscaping to cushion the blow. My body was still covered in bruises. Since the family went bankrupt, the once endlessly glamorous eldest young lady became a rat crossing the street. The sycophantic friends around her disappeared, and the properties under her name were all auctioned off. She could only rent in a cramped urban village. The down-and-out life the eldest young lady avoided like the plague was the life I desperately wanted before transmigrating. Before transmigrating, I was an orphan. Stumbling all the way to get into a top university. At the same beautiful age. Others recklessly enjoyed their youth. While I carried a woven bag, picking through every trash can at school. Working hard to gather money for next month’s living expenses. Until I died in a car accident and came to this world. I carried a bag of recyclables slowly upstairs. Having been poor for so many years, no matter where I go, I’ll pick up some cardboard and water bottles along the way. Save them up to sell for money. Life is not easy; every bit of subsidy counts. But the competition in this barrier-free track is fierce. My spoils today were not many. At the end of the dim stairs, a man with sharp features stood at my door. His aura was low and oppressive. Upon seeing me, he coldly spat out a sentence: “Mia Sterling, your family going bankrupt didn’t teach you a lesson. You’re still lingering around Arthur like a ghost, making Chloe sad for a long time today.” “If you don’t go apologize to her, don’t blame me for not being polite to you.” 6 I tried hard to search through the dusty memories in my brain. Only then did I match this face with a name. He is the childhood friend who grew up with me. Also the infatuated second male lead in the book, Leo. Before the female lead appeared, Leo and I were as close as siblings, and Arthur and I were a famous loving couple. But after the poor little white flower female lead appeared, in our former trio, my position was replaced by the female lead, Chloe. Leaving only me standing in place, stubbornly clinging to past memories, unable to extricate myself. I lazily lifted my eyelids and swept a glance at him. Pausing at his waist. I thought, I’m really crazy from poverty. Looking at people, I subconsciously look at their kidneys first. Seeing I didn’t respond, Leo couldn’t help but raise his voice: “Mia Sterling, did you hear what I’m saying—” “Give it to me.” I interrupted. He was stunned, hesitating: “Give you what?” I cleanly snatched the Evian bottle from his hand. Poured the unfinished water into a flowerpot, then skillfully crushed it flat and tossed it into the woven bag behind me. After doing all this, I wiped the sweat beads: “What did you say just now?” Leo moved his gaze away with difficulty, becoming aggressive again: “Chloe found your lipstick in Arthur’s pocket, she cried so hard she almost fainted.” “Why are you so vicious, always standing between them, disgusting everyone.” 7 Leo probably forgot. I am the male lead’s true fiancée. Arthur and I had been engaged since our teens. Because of the engagement, when the Vance family’s capital chain broke, it was the Sterling family that raised a large sum of money to help him tide over the crisis. But when the female lead appeared, everything turned upside down. With teary eyes, she stood stubbornly in front of me and questioned: “Miss Sterling, why must you use money to tear Arthur and me apart?” “We are the ones truly in love.” Arthur’s wavering heart completely lost balance, staring at me ruthlessly: “Except for her background, Chloe is better than you in every way.” The Sterling family’s bankruptcy came swiftly. My parents couldn’t bear the blow and passed away one after another. I deliberately put the lipstick there when I left the police station. To cause a fight between the male and female leads. If not for these two crazy people, I would have transmigrated as the eldest young lady of the Sterling family. Just a little bit. I could have lived a life with both parents, money, and love. Cutting off my wealth is like digging up my ancestral graves. The money that belongs to me. I will definitely get it all back, principal and interest. I met Leo’s angry eyes: “How do you know Chloe cried so hard she almost fainted?” He gritted his teeth: “Chloe argued with Arthur and ran out, nowhere to go, could only come to my place.” “Do you know, she cried so much she couldn’t speak a complete sentence, and held onto my sleeve tightly, not letting me come find trouble with you.” Didn’t let him come, but didn’t he still come? Truly an infatuated second male lead. When the female lead is happy, he watches from the sidelines. When the female lead is in trouble, he’s the first to step up. The book once said, Leo is Chloe’s eternal regret in her heart, the unattainable after she chose the male lead for life. I don’t get it. Since it’s such a regret. Why not just let the female lead start a harem and take Leo in as a boy toy? Schedule their nights, spread the rain and dew evenly. That should smooth over all the female lead’s regrets, right? Leo stepped forward and grabbed my wrist: “Mia Sterling, you must come with me to apologize to Chloe today.” 8 He’s completely unhinged. Like the cheap takeout orders I used to get. Mixed with poisonous mushrooms. I unhurriedly broke free from his grip and put away the woven bag in my hand. Pointing to the dilapidated, mottled building behind me. “Do you know where this is?” Leo looked down from his high horse, speaking slowly: “Isn’t this just the urban village.” “You are no longer the aloof eldest young lady of the Sterling family. Living here is the price you pay for constantly bullying Chloe.” I nodded in reassurance. To deal with someone, you must first drag them down to your level, then defeat them with rich life experience. Like ordering takeout, Leo’s coupons will never inflate as high as mine. In the dim stairwell, I lowered my eyes, gathering momentum, and delivered a flying kick to the unguarded Leo. An earth-shattering scream echoed through the stairwell. He tumbled down the stairs miserably, his left leg hitting the hard concrete slab, yelling in pain, veins popping on his forehead. Soon oozing a thin layer of sweat. The voice-activated lights lit up in response. Illuminating my proud, disdainful eyes. An extremely calm voice reached his ears: “Leo, you need to understand.” “In the stairwells of the urban village, the cameras are all broken!” 9 A wailing ambulance took Leo away. Before being loaded into the vehicle, I heard the infatuated second male lead’s hysterical, pain-enduring roar: “Mia Sterling, just you wait!” I lay back on the narrow bed in the dark, cramped urban village, staring at a yellow stain on the ceiling, carefully recalling the plot of the book. After I moved to this urban village, the whole book had drawn a perfect period. The male and female leads lived happily together, about to hold a grand wedding, envied by all. The infatuated second male lead, though regretful, became the eternal pain in the hearts of millions of readers. The vicious female supporting character got her deserved retribution, satisfying everyone. The villain who went against the male lead was also thoroughly trampled into the mud, unable to turn over and do evil again. The author’s ink abruptly stopped here. No one knows what will happen after a perfectly concluded story. I viciously took a bite of the newly bought cheap hot dog. Focusing my thoughts on the villain. In this world. I clearly did nothing wrong, but defending my rights was branded as vicious, becoming cannon fodder dealt with by everyone. And the villain only competed fairly with the male lead in the business world, yet bore the name of being sinister and was wantonly trampled into the mud by the male lead. I threw the hot dog in my hand, quickly pulled out the villain’s personal information in my mind, and took a cab to the infatuated second male lead’s home. As night fell, in the brightly lit old mansion, Leo’s leg was already cast in a thick layer of plaster. His tall body was fixed in a small wheelchair. His face was pale; he looked like he could turn into a zombie at any moment. Upon seeing me, his face showed ferocity: “Mia Sterling, it’s useless for you to come apologize now.” “I originally thought we had known each other for twenty years, and I would let you off the hook, letting you spend the rest of your life safely in the urban village.” “Now it seems, you will never change your vicious nature!” I stretched my neck and looked behind him: “Who said I came to apologize?” “I just heard your leg was broken, specially bought some fruits your brother likes to see him.” “By the way, where is your brother?”

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I was so poor that I didn’t dare accept my childhood friend’s confession. My childhood friend looked down at me and sneered: “You need money, right? Be my follower, five thousand a month.” Since then, he made me run the 800-meter dash for the school beauty during P.E., deliver condoms to a hotel on a rainy night, and give up my spot in the academic competition. I always met him with a smiling face and never refused. Until he made me complete a dare for the school beauty. “The bar street is too sketchy, Chloe is afraid to go.” “You do the punishment for her.” “Here, take these five dollars, say you want to order a male model.” I reached out to take it: “Okay, but this is the last time.” Caleb suddenly let go. Five coins fell to the ground, rolling everywhere. Laughter came from behind. “Who came up with this wicked idea? It’s genius.” “Five bucks? Won’t she get beaten up for looking for trouble?” “Hey, the little follower has a temper too. What do you mean ‘last time’?” Caleb looked down at me from his high horse, twitching the corner of his lips: “Don’t worry, she wouldn’t dare.” 1 Under the colorful neon lights. I was already prepared to take a beating, my voice calm: “I want to buy you.” The man, who was so handsome he almost looked unnatural, looked down at me and sneered: “Little kid, booking me is very expensive.” He held up five fingers towards me, shaking them gently: “At least this much.” I took a deep breath, pulled out five dirty coins from my pocket, and continued playing dumb: “Just enough.” The man swore and raised his hand. I instinctively covered my head and shut my eyes tight. The next second, my wrist was grabbed. “The injuries on your body, how did you get them?” He rolled up my sleeve and frowned. I froze for a few seconds and put my hands behind my back. “I only have five bucks. If you’ll do it, do it. If not, I’ll find someone else.” “Don’t talk about anything else.” Having said everything in one breath, I lowered my head and was about to leave. The path in front of me was suddenly blocked by the man’s long leg. I stopped, feeling guilty: “What… what are you doing?” He put out his cigarette and spoke faintly. “Deal.” 2 Now it was my turn to be at a loss. The man leaned down to look me in the eye, curling his lips. “So, what are we doing tomorrow?” I just felt my scalp tingle, and said dryly: “Can… can we do anything?” The man chuckled softly, eyes rippling. “Anything.” “Even if you want to do something you shouldn’t, I won’t resist.” “After all, you’re the boss.” He dragged out the last two words with a drawl. My face burned, and I spoke incoherently: “Just… tomorrow afternoon at 2 PM, our class has a parent-teacher conference.” “High school, junior year, class one.” “Just show up.” 3 The next afternoon, I waited at the school gate two hours early. When the school beauty, Chloe, and her two followers swaggered over, I instinctively shrank my neck. “Yo, who are you waiting for?” Chloe snatched the report card from my hand, speaking sarcastically: “First in the grade? So impressive.” “But what’s the use of good grades? Who are you going to show your report card to later? Burn it for your parents?” The other two girls immediately laughed loudly. My fingers tightened, and I said softly: “My brother is coming.” “Brother?” Chloe exaggeratedly widened her eyes. “Since when do you have a brother? Did the good student learn to lie?” “Could it be you went to the bar street last night and got beaten silly?” They laughed even more presumptuously. Until Caleb got out of a black sedan. Chloe immediately reverted to her usual gentle and kind demeanor. Caleb’s gaze fell on me, and he frowned: “Didn’t I just give you five thousand to buy a jacket?” “You wear this one piece all year round.” “Mia, are you really that obsessed with money?” I was in no mood to explain to him, just wanting to end my connection with him completely: “I did the dare you told me to do.” “I won’t work for you anymore after this.” Caleb froze for a moment, then his face turned cold: “Didn’t I tell you that you didn’t have to go?” He turned to Chloe: “You didn’t tell her?” Chloe’s face turned slightly pale, and she shook off Caleb’s hand. “I forgot.” “Why are you so anxious? Are you that afraid she’d get hurt?” “I knew you two hanging out every day was suspicious.” Caleb’s expression softened, and he chased after her to hold her hand. “How is that possible.” “She just does things for money. Mia is just my follower.” The two of them pulled each other into the school, quickly leaving me behind. The crescent-shaped marks left by my nails were indented into my palms. I squatted down to pick up the report card, slowly folded it, and put it in my pocket. 4 The parent-teacher conference was about to start, and the school gate on the weekend was empty. The security guard yelled at me: “The bell rang.” “Student, aren’t you going in?” I realized I was probably stood up. But it was only five bucks, it was good enough that he didn’t hit me. But thinking about having to attend the parent-teacher conference by myself, thinking about others’ strange looks, I suddenly realized I was actually looking forward to his appearance. “I, I know.” I dragged my feet back to the classroom. The homeroom teacher’s voice could already be heard in the hallway. The back door was ajar, and I slipped in with my head down. Luckily, my seat was in the last row next to the trash can, and didn’t attract attention. The homeroom teacher was talking about the midterm exam results, and paused when mentioning my name: “Mia has made a lot of progress this time…” Chloe and her little friends laughed, not bothering to cover their mouths. I lowered my head, staring at a doodle on the desk carved by someone unknown. My eyes felt a bit sour. Just as I was almost biting my lower lip until it bled, there was a knock on the classroom door. A gentle, knock knock sound. The homeroom teacher stopped talking, and everyone turned their heads. The door was pushed open, and a tall figure walked in against the light from the hallway. White shirt, black pants, as clean as snow on a distant mountain. Completely different from his flamboyant and rebellious look under the neon lights last night. I froze, and my eyes lit up. Liam’s gaze swept over the classroom and landed on me. “Sorry, teacher, I’m late.” “I am Mia’s brother.” Chloe whipped her head around to look at me, eyes wide. Liam walked straight to the back of the classroom and sat on the empty stool next to me. The homeroom teacher was stunned for a few seconds before reacting, nodding at him, and continuing her speech. Only then did I notice a faint smell of disinfectant on him. Liam turned his head and explained in my ear: “Had a little accident on the way.” “It’s… fine.” Liam looked at the thick stack of certificates on the desk and raised an eyebrow slightly: “Such good grades, and you play with male models in private? Quite the contrast, top student.” “I… I didn’t.” “Why not?” He seemed to have found some amusement, deliberately pressing the issue. “Don’t talk, the teacher is looking.” I pursed my lips and carefully sat up straight. For the first time, I didn’t lower my head at a parent-teacher conference. 5 After the parent-teacher conference, Liam was kept behind by the homeroom teacher to talk. I quickly grabbed him and gave him a few instructions, telling him not to blow his cover. “Just say you’re my cousin.” “I’ll be back after I go to the restroom.” Who knew that as soon as I pushed open the restroom door, I’d be yanked inside by a force. “Not bad, Mia, you even dare to find someone to pretend to be your parent?” Chloe and her two followers cornered me. “Where did you find that guy? You’re so plain and dark, and he’s so pale and handsome, you don’t look related at all.” They held down my neck, grabbed my hair, and pushed me into the sink. The faucet was turned on, and cold water poured over my head. “Planning to find a man to back you up and scare us?” Breathing became difficult. I struggled desperately, but two fists are no match for four hands. A second before suffocating, Chloe pulled my hair and yanked me up. “Looks like the lesson wasn’t enough.” Before I could catch my breath, I was pushed back into the cold water. “I’m warning you, stay away from Caleb.” “Don’t play the victim in front of him.” “If I catch you again, I’ll kill you.” I don’t know how long passed before they finally let go and left. I was soaked, my school uniform clinging to my skin. Shivering from the cold. Gasping for air, I slumped on the floor. A long time later, the class bell rang again. I propped myself up on the floor and struggled to stand. Looking in the mirror, I dealt with my dripping hair, took a deep breath, and pushed the door open. Liam was still talking to the homeroom teacher at the end of the hallway. I kept my head down, wanting to slip past quickly and return to the classroom to put on my uniform jacket. But I heard Caleb’s voice: “Mia, what happened to you?” “I accidentally… got myself wet.” I forced a smile. The homeroom teacher and Liam also looked over upon hearing the voice. Caleb frowned and grabbed my shoulder. “Did this to yourself? Do you think I’m an idiot?” “Mia, is someone bullying you?” “Tell me.” I opened my mouth, just about to speak. “Teacher!” “I want to report something.” Chloe’s voice came from behind. “Teacher, the hair clip I bought for five thousand dollars is gone. Everyone was in the classroom earlier, only she came in last. Mia must have stolen it!” The homeroom teacher’s face changed: “Chloe, don’t make wild accusations…” “I didn’t steal it.” I retorted immediately. Chloe scoffed: “You, someone who finds people to pretend to be parents and lies habitually, what credibility do you have?” “Teacher, that man is not her brother!” “You even dare to deceive the teacher, what else wouldn’t you dare to do?” Classmates gathered around, whispering. I saw the hesitation in the homeroom teacher’s eyes; she knew Chloe’s family’s influence in town. Caleb took off his jacket, wrapped it around me, and looked at Chloe: “I’ll pay for it. I’ll go buy you a new one after class.” “Don’t say anymore.” That familiar sense of powerlessness crept up again. Almost driving me crazy. I laughed in anger, taking off Caleb’s jacket and throwing it at his chest: “What do you mean you’ll pay for it?” “You mean, you also think I stole it.” Caleb didn’t catch it, letting the jacket fall to the ground, taking a deep breath: “That’s not what I meant.” “Then what do you mean?” Caleb ran a hand through his hair, frustrated: “Mia, I’m f*cking helping you.” “Does it matter who stole it? If I replace what Chloe lost, the matter is over. It saves her from suspecting you and saves so many people from watching you make a fool of yourself.” “Otherwise, what do you want? Tell me, how do you want to solve it?” “Call the police.” Liam’s voice wasn’t loud, but it made all the whispers stop abruptly. He took out his phone and neatly dialed 911. Then he looked up at Chloe: “Are you sure the hair clip is worth five thousand? That’s enough to press charges.” Chloe’s face paled, and she froze. The police arrived very quickly. In the office. The security footage was pulled up, showing Chloe hadn’t worn that hair clip to school at all today. Under the police’s gaze, she stammered and changed her story: “Maybe… maybe I remembered wrong and left it at home…” “So it’s defamation?” Liam smiled sarcastically and spoke lightly. Caleb suddenly stood up: “What are you saying?” “She already said she accidentally forgot. Why are you speaking so harshly?” Chloe pulled him and sniffled. “Caleb, it’s my fault I blamed Mia.” “It’s all my fault.” “Just let them scold me.” Liam raised an eyebrow slightly: “Classmate, you falsely accused my sister of stealing and demanded a public search without distinguishing right from wrong. This matter can’t be settled with just a few apologies.” The expression on Chloe’s face froze: “We’re all classmates, just friends playing around, a misunderstanding…” “Then can my sister say right now that these injuries and dirty water on her body were all done by you?” “That won’t do, you can’t say things casually without evidence…” Liam interrupted her, his voice still calm. “So, you also know you shouldn’t say things casually without evidence.” “Public apology, compensate for emotional distress. Otherwise, I’ll personally go talk to your parents.” Chloe bit her lip, glaring at me with red eyes, and finally squeezed out two words through her teeth: “I’m sorry.” She paused, then smiled again. “But Mia, I know your living conditions are difficult.” “As classmates, I won’t refuse whatever compensation you want.” Caleb, standing beside her with a gloomy face, looked at me. He counted out a thousand dollars and shoved it to me, his movements rough. “Are you satisfied now?” “So this is what you were waiting for.” “Mia, next time you want money, you can just ask.” Caleb pulled Chloe away. As he opened the door, his footsteps paused. “Mia, how did you become like this?”

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My sister caught the eye of a top-tier billionaire heir at first sight. To win her favor, the heir willingly became a devoted “simp” without any official title, following her around, gifting money, cars, and houses. As my sister’s dearest younger sibling, I took advantage of the situation, raking in benefits like there was no tomorrow. Watching his brother lose both money and dignity, the heir’s CEO older brother was furious. He angrily tracked me down: “A man’s dignity cannot be trampled on. The Sterling men will never be simps.” “Since your sister brainwashed my brother, don’t blame me for targeting you.” “Let’s wait and see. In half a month at most, I will expose you two sisters for what you really are.” Half a month passed by quickly. And I, too, got my very own simp. 1 At her birthday party, my sister caught the eye of Leo Sterling, a top-tier billionaire heir. To pursue her, Leo gifted money, cars, and houses. He even tried to give me his older brother. “Mia, just help me woo your sister, and I’ll introduce my brother to you.” “You know my brother, Arthur Sterling, right? The nation’s heartthrob, tall and handsome, in the financial news every day…” “I promise you, the day I become your brother-in-law will be the day you become my sister-in-law.” I fell silent. I remembered seeing Arthur’s face once before. The young man looked to be about 6’2″. Dressed in a sharp suit, breathtakingly handsome. He appeared gentlemanly and refined. He was impeccably polite to everyone who came to flatter him. But there was always a hint of condescension in his words. Arrogant and nasty. I had no intention of messing with someone like him. I waved my hand at Leo: “I have no interest in being your sister-in-law. Leo, just give me money in exchange for information.” Leo nodded desperately, wishing he could agree to anything: “Okay, okay, okay.” A month passed. Leo tried every trick in the book. But he didn’t even get a smile from my sister. The last time. He took off his coat, revealing his abs, attempting a passionate seduction. But my sister just pushed up her rimless glasses and asked flatly: “Did you get robbed?” “…” Leo went crazy. He ran crying to his brother. “Bro, can you run me over with your car? Then I’ll reincarnate into the type she likes, and we can be together…” Arthur lifted his lips coldly: “Stop this nonsense.” Leo left. The next day, he knocked on his brother’s door, crying again: “Bro, I decided to find a way to get her pregnant, then I can trap her. You should do it too, okay?” Arthur hesitated slightly: “What do you mean? I have to get pregnant too?” Leo: “Yes.” Arthur: “…” Arthur finally realized the gravity of the situation. His foolish brother was truly bewitched by that woman. He had turned into an absolute simp. Only knowing how to chase after a woman all day. Arthur pressed his throbbing temples. Casually picked up the file his secretary just brought in. The photo on it was of the Summers sisters. They didn’t look like much. The older sister at least had an aura of elegance. But the younger sister looked silly, with round eyes, clearly not very smart. If these two were thrown onto the street, especially the younger one, he wouldn’t spare them a second glance. Arthur sneered disdainfully. Casually tossed the file into the trash can. Fine, Chloe Summers. Since you play my brother like a dog. Then don’t blame me for targeting your sister. Dealing with a little girl fresh out of college like her. He could make her cry with just a little effort. Hmph. He’d say it again. The Sterling men will never be simps. These two sisters can just wait to regret it. 2 When I received Arthur’s friend request. I thought it was a prank. And ignored it. But after I got out of the shower. My phone was still ringing. I answered confusedly: “Hello, who is this?” A pause on the other end. A man’s cool, clear voice came through: “Miss Summers, I am Leo’s older brother, Arthur Sterling.” I hesitated for a few seconds, frowning warily: “Ah, do you need something?” Arthur’s voice was deep and magnetic. With a hint of a gentle smile: “Nothing major. I just heard from my brother that you’ve been helping him woo your sister.” “He’s been a bother to you. To express my gratitude, I’d like to treat you to a meal.” My first instinct was to refuse. Who helped that idiot woo my sister? No one in the whole world except me was suited to be my sister’s minion. I had actually been scamming Leo all along. But on second thought. My sister’s attitude towards Leo had changed a lot recently; I was afraid she was falling for the silly boy. And this unfathomable man on the phone was the silly boy’s brother. He wasn’t someone to be trifled with. What if he teamed up with his brother to bully my sister later? It might be good to see what he’s up to. I cleared my throat. Tried to make my tone sound more polite: “Okay, Mr. Sterling, where should we eat?” 3 When I arrived at the agreed restaurant. Arthur was already sitting there. He shed his serious suit today, wearing a sapphire blue sweater. It made his skin look even fairer, his features clear and handsome. Leo really didn’t lie to me. His brother’s face was genuinely good-looking, and his fashion sense was great too. I was stunned by Arthur’s handsomeness for a few seconds. By the time I reacted. He was already standing in front of me. A fresh citrus scent instantly filled my nose. Arthur bent slightly, gentlemanly pulling out a chair for me: “Miss Summers, please sit.” I swallowed hard. My heart skipped an embarrassing beat. But quickly. I recovered my calm quickly. Because Arthur put a piece of meat on my plate. …Dear God, I’m a germaphobe, a severe germaphobe. At this moment, to hell with the citrus scent and gentlemanly demeanor. My face contorted in agony. While Arthur wasn’t looking. I speared the piece of meat he gave me. And threw it straight into the trash can under the table. After Arthur finished talking to the waiter. His gaze slowly landed on my plate. He raised an eyebrow without showing any emotion. This little girl… He found it somewhat amusing. Her heart must be racing like a deer right now. She swallowed the food he gave her in a second. Probably didn’t even chew out of excitement. But then again, he had been flattered like this since he was young. Receiving love letters since middle school. By high school, boys and girls looking at him crowded the hallways. In college, he was on the confession wall every few days. He had grown numb to it long ago, even a bit disdainful. Whether expanding his business empire or seducing the girl in front of him, everything was under his control. So he didn’t understand. As Arthur Sterling’s brother. How could Leo become a shameless simp? Giving money, cars, and houses; why didn’t he just give his life while he was at it? An absolute disgrace. Arthur was very confident. In two weeks, he could definitely close the net. When the time comes, he’ll handle this girl and vent his anger for his foolish brother. But he doesn’t like girls who are too infatuated. It’s just for fun; she better not cry when it’s over. 4 I looked up and met Arthur’s meaningful gaze. My heart skipped a beat. Did he notice? Fortunately, Arthur just gave me a friendly smile. And looked away. I let out a sigh of relief. Then heard Arthur say: “Miss Summers, this is the first time I’ve seen my brother like someone so much.” “So, please help him out more. Whatever conditions you have, just name them.” Saying that. Arthur smiled again. The smile didn’t reach his eyes, and he even put another piece of food on my plate while smiling. My eyes went wide. The words I wanted to say got stuck in my throat. Does this guy have any manners? Always putting food on other people’s plates. I forced a smile. Finally put down my chopsticks, unable to bear it anymore. “Mr. Sterling…” Arthur interrupted me: “No need to be so polite, just call me by my name.” “Miss Summers, I prepared a small gift for you on the way here. I hope you like it.” I was very surprised. Took the box Arthur handed me with both hands. Opened it gently— Wow. My grandma would love this. I tried hard to control my emotions, afraid Arthur would see a trace of disgust: “Thank you, Mr. Sterling. I like it very much, you have great taste.” Arthur wasn’t surprised at all. He casually crossed his long legs, a flash of contempt passing quickly in his eyes: “I’m glad you like it.” He said lightly. I quickly put the gift in my bag. Forget it. I’ll accept it for now. I hadn’t found a gift for my grandma’s 80th birthday anyway. 5 After dinner. Arthur didn’t give me a chance to refuse and drove me straight home. The car was eerily quiet. I closed my eyes tightly, pretending to sleep. Completely oblivious. Arthur beside me had fallen deep into thought. He was letting his imagination run wild. For some reason, he remembered seeing online that saying “goodnight” means “I love you.” He guessed this girl would definitely say goodnight to him. Little girls’ tricks were all the same. He would, of course, mercifully give this girl a chance to say goodnight. But if she got too excited and did something offensive, he wouldn’t be polite. Arthur hit the brakes. His long fingers tapped the steering wheel rhythmically. As if waiting for something. I didn’t care what he was waiting for. I dropped a “thank you” and fled the uncomfortable atmosphere. By the time Arthur realized what had happened. He was the only one left in the car. Where was his “goodnight”? An indescribable emotion spread in his chest. Arthur pursed his lips. After two seconds of thought, he finally figured it out. She was probably just shy. That made sense. Since he was a kid. No girl could remain calm after receiving a proactive gesture from him. Arthur leaned back, regaining his composed demeanor. 6 For the next two weeks. Arthur invited me to dinner every day. I was on edge for a few days before finally concluding that he didn’t seem to have any ill intent; he just wanted a dining companion. However, I don’t know if it’s because he’s getting older, but every dish he ordered was either steamed or stewed. I followed him miserably, my face turning green from the bland food, still having to fake a smile and say, “Delicious, delicious, so delicious.” Arthur tilted his head to look at me, a faint smile on his lips, certain that everything was under his control. Of course. The bland taste in my mouth almost made me want to flip the table. But turning around, I saw that my sister and Leo were on the verge of getting together. So I could only endure. Sob. My sister had no idea. How much I sacrificed for her happiness! But I didn’t expect. The turning point would come so quickly. 7 After a relatively pleasant fourteen days of dining with Arthur. On the fifteenth day. Arthur didn’t send me a message. I suffered through the morning with racking brains. Confirming he really wasn’t going to ask me out to eat anymore. I took out my phone with tears of joy. Sent a message to a friend I hadn’t contacted in a long time. Inviting them to a yacht party. I even specifically asked my best friend to bring two handsome guys she just met. The group of five had a blast on the yacht. I finally ate the long-lost BBQ. Wolfing it down while crying in the wind. The guy beside me, seeing my hands were full, attentively took a tissue to wipe my mouth. It was also at this time. I suddenly noticed a man leaning on the railing not far away looking somewhat familiar. The man wore a simple casual white shirt with elegant nobility. With sunglasses resting on his high nose bridge, his exact expression couldn’t be seen. But his slightly lowered head posture. And the phone screen in his hand that was frequently lit up and quickly dimmed. Revealed an obvious anxiety. He seemed to be waiting for a message… The next second. The man suddenly looked in my direction. …It was Arthur. Arthur just took one look at me. Then immediately locked onto the boy leaning in front of me.

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My family bought me a small apartment. I called Liam. “Tell your sister I won’t be home tonight. I’m coming over to drink and celebrate with you. We have a home now.” “I’m not going back tonight; I’m sleeping over.” An excited reply came from the other end. “Okay, I’ll tell her.” An hour later, I was staring wide-eyed at his five-year-old sister in my living room. Her chubby little hand raised a juice box to clink with my glass. “Cheers, brother~” Me: … I called him back to question him. “I told you to tell your sister I wasn’t putting her to bed tonight, that you were coming to sleep over and celebrate with me.” Sounds of intense gaming came from the other end. “Same thing, same thing. I have a tournament tonight. You put her to sleep.” “Drop her off at kindergarten tomorrow morning.” I turned back around. His sister was already drunk on juice. Damn it, I’m really guilty of falling for a hopelessly dense straight guy. 1 I hung up the phone. The little ball of a person on the sofa had already toppled over. Hugging a throw pillow, sleeping sweetly. The TV was still playing her favorite cartoon. Her fair, chubby face was so cute; her features looked just like Liam’s. I’ve seen pictures of Liam when he was little. His sister is basically a copy-paste version of him with longer hair. My heart softened just looking at her. I couldn’t help but poke her little cheek. I turned off the TV, picked her up from the sofa. Carried her to the guest bedroom. Gently covered her with a blanket and placed the stuffed animals she brought by her pillow. Leaving a small nightlight on, I closed the door and went out. Liam’s gaming account was still online. I sighed. He really had been pulling all-nighters playing games a lot more frequently lately. Maybe it’s the brief liberation after graduating college. Since moving into this apartment, he hasn’t stayed over once. I finally found an excuse to celebrate today. Sigh… Ever since the graduation party, we haven’t had a proper talk. 2 There was a knock on the bedroom door from the outside. “Brother, are you asleep?” “You haven’t told me a story yet.” The big one didn’t come back, and the little one woke up again. His sister’s eyes were wide open as she listened to me finish two stories about little princesses. I patted her back. “Alright, alright, that’s two stories already.” “Go to sleep now.” She yawned. “Brother, do you like my brother?” I was startled. Is it that obvious?? She pouted her little mouth. “What’s so great about him…” 3 What’s so great about Liam? Liam is just too great. The first time we met was in the college dorms. I was a spoiled little rich kid, completely clueless about taking care of myself. With one command, my older brother dumped me in the college dorms. Told me to learn how to live independently. But he forgot one thing: you have to be taught first to learn. I couldn’t instantly learn how to take care of myself. The nanny who dropped me off wiped her tears. “Young master, you’re on your own now.” Tearfully, she made my bed and gave me instructions over and over. Don’t drink the laundry detergent. If you do, remember to dial 911. ???? I was just pampered, not stupid!! But she forgot to teach me how much detergent to use. I poured half a bottle to wash my underwear. The more I scrubbed, the more bubbles there were; the more bubbles, the harder I scrubbed. I scrubbed until my hands were red. I still didn’t know if it was clean, or what the next step was. I wanted to use my phone to call for help, but my hands were too slippery, and the phone dropped into the basin. Submerged in bubbles. I yelled. “Damn bastard.” Wait until I go back, wait until I go back. But I couldn’t beat my brother anyway. I threw a pathetic little tantrum, looking for my phone in the basin full of bubbles. That’s when Liam pushed the door open and came in. He stared at me for a few seconds. Then spoke anxiously. “Don’t cry. I didn’t know someone was in the bathroom.” “You didn’t lock the door.” “Are you… playing with bubbles in here??” 4 Liam helped me wash the underwear. His well-defined hands first fished out my phone. Then scooped out that ball of fabric from the water. With red ears, he taught me how much detergent to add, how to scrub, how to hang it up to dry. My eyes lit up. He knew everything. If I followed him, I could learn too. I followed him, but I didn’t learn how to do chores. But I learned how to handle Liam. I just had to look at him with adoration. And say. “Liam, you’re so amazing.” He would blush, then snatch the dirty clothes from my basin. “I’ll wash them for you.” Under my continuous flattery, he lost his ability to think critically. Brought me food, washed my clothes, woke me up, ran with me, delivered books to me… There were four people in our dorm. Another guy also tried to speak in a cutesy voice. “Liam, you’re so amazing, can you help me wash my socks?” Liam: “Get lost.” “Disgusting.” Liam’s home was in the city. He would go home on weekends to see his sister. He also packed my clothes for the weekend. “Julian, come home with me.” “I’m afraid if you stay in the dorm alone, you’ll accidentally kill yourself.” But I had actually already learned how to live on my own. I really just hadn’t experienced these things before; I wasn’t stupid. 5 But I would be stupid not to go home with Liam. Because Liam’s mom’s cooking was super, super delicious. His sister was super, super cute. The first time I went, his sister was two years old. Her soft little hand held mine, calling me with candy in her mouth. “Bwother…” Later, I became a regular at Liam’s house. The Miller family had a room for me, and Mrs. Miller prepared loungewear for me. Liam washed my clothes. His sister would find me with a fairy tale book. “Brother, tell a story.” During the holidays, I was too lazy to go home, so I even spent Christmas with the Millers. Mr. Miller, returning from a business trip, also prepared a gift card for me. I felt I liked the Miller family, liked his sister, liked Liam’s parents, liked Liam. And I liked the summer we first met, when the laundry detergent smelled like freesia. But I never dared to say it. Because when our dormmates teased him. “Are you raising a wife in the dorm? Gonna marry him after graduation?” My face would instantly turn beet red. Liam would always say openly. “Julian is my best friend.” Between best friend and boyfriend. Lay my unspoken secret crush and four years of college life. 6 Dropping his sister off at the kindergarten gate. She suddenly pulled my hand and asked me to squat down. “Brother, my brother is a big idiot who doesn’t understand romance.” “My brother isn’t that great. He loves playing games, doesn’t know how to coax kids, tricks me into bringing him water every day, always forgets to bring me lollipops, and even conned me out of my allowance last time…” She blinked playfully. “You like him, don’t you?” What?? “Wait for me to grow up. I like you, I love you the most.” Her eyes darted around. “Can you pick me up after school today?” “I want a super big lollipop.” “Strawberry flavored.” I smiled and patted her head. “Okay, I’ll buy it for you.” She stood on her tiptoes and gave me a kiss. “Brother is so nice, brother is awesome, I love brother.” Liam was so unromantic, but his sister was super good at coaxing people. Especially since she looked like a miniature version of him. Let alone buying one lollipop, I wouldn’t hesitate if she asked me to buy a whole candy store. If only Liam would also tell me he likes me the most, loves me the most. 7 When I got home, the door was open. The clothes I changed out of last night were washed clean and hanging on the balcony. Liam was cooking noodles in the kitchen. Watching the stove while directing the workers installing the washing machines. They were installing three in total. One big, two small. The workers finished and left, and the noodles were done. Liam coughed lightly. “What are you looking at? Wash your hands and come eat.” “You went to drop that little brat off this morning, probably didn’t have time for breakfast.” Hidden in the noodles were two perfect soft-boiled eggs. I don’t like fried eggs or hard-boiled eggs. Fried eggs are too greasy, hard-boiled eggs are too dry. Soft-boiled eggs are just right. Liam always complained that I was too much trouble. But he would make them for me every time. At first, he didn’t do it well. Either the egg was fully cooked, or the yolk was raw. Or it broke. When Liam was learning to make these eggs, he ate a lot of failures. Which led to him completely not eating eggs now. After eating the noodles, Liam went to wash the dishes. “Installed three washing machines for you. The big one is for outerwear. The two small ones: grey for socks, white for underwear.” “They all have a drying function. If you’re afraid of forgetting to hang them up, just dry them directly.” I hugged him from behind. “But I have you.” And I had long since learned how to wash clothes. His body stiffened, and he slowly pushed my hands away. “What if I’m not here? You still have to live.” Speaking of living. “When are you moving in?” This apartment is closer to the company Liam is joining than his home. He can sleep an extra half hour every morning. Back when we just started interning, we agreed. We would live together after graduation; we wouldn’t separate. The next day, I had my brother buy me this apartment. The renovations were all done according to what we liked. Liam raised his hand. “Let’s wait a bit. My mom is on a business trip recently, I need to take care of my sister.” “Bring your sister over too! We’ll set up a pink princess room for her.” “Then we can sleep together.” It’s not like we hadn’t slept together before anyway. “No!” He startled me. He said. “It’s too far from her kindergarten here, too inconvenient.” That was true. “Then I’ll go live at your house with you.” Some things are better said openly. His eyelashes fluttered. “Didn’t you say you need to organize the apartment recently?” “Stop running back and forth, it’s too exhausting.” “I need to go to the company. I’m leaving.” Liam grabbed his phone from the table and left. “Hey…” I called after him. The more I called, the faster he ran. What a dense, unromantic straight guy!!!

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My childhood sweetheart’s family believed that boys should be raised in poverty to build character. So, Lucas lived in a run-down apartment, eating nothing but plain bread and pickled vegetables. I couldn’t bear it and secretly helped him out. But Lucas thought I was chasing him. He rejected me with a cold face: “I don’t need your charity, and I won’t accept your pursuit. Give up.” Disappointed, I gave up and consciously kept my distance from him. It wasn’t until after high school graduation, when Lucas got accepted into a top college, that he found out his family was actually loaded. He completely changed his attitude and started hovering around me every day. His friend was confused: “Bro, didn’t you hate her?” Lucas: “Who said that?” “Your bro has money now, I must shower her with it!” Me: ? 1 “Bro, she’s here again.” I stood at the door of Lucas’s classroom, holding a lunchbox. Enduring the teasing, joking, and mocking stares of everyone around, I waited for Lucas to come out. Hearing his classmate’s reminder, Lucas indeed pulled himself out of his sea of textbooks and looked up at me. He froze for a second, then frowned fiercely. It was the long break between classes, and people were coming and going. I felt a bit embarrassed, so I reached out and waved at him. The implication was: Hurry up and come out. Lucas’s classmate teased me: “Isn’t this Chloe from Class 4? Bringing food for our bro again?” “What are you saying? Why call her classmate? She’s clearly our bro’s…” A burst of laughter erupted. I didn’t understand what they were laughing at; I just anxiously called Lucas out. This was the food I specifically asked our family’s cook, Maria, to prepare. All the flavors Lucas liked. Seeing my face getting redder, Lucas finally got up and came out. He impatiently dispersed the onlookers and pulled me into the stairwell. I presented the lunchbox to him like a treasure. “Lucas, didn’t you say the ribs were good last time? I brought you a lot this time.” Lucas stared at me expressionlessly. I shrank back a bit, feeling inexplicably nervous. To be fair, Lucas had a very aggressive look. Especially when he wasn’t smiling, his face looked even fiercer. I didn’t know how I had offended him, so I could only test the waters carefully: “Lucas, are you angry?” Lucas stared at my face for a moment and suddenly said: “Chloe, why do you always bring me food? I can swipe my own card and eat in the cafeteria.” I thought about it and smiled: “The cafeteria food is too salty and greasy. Eating too much of it is bad for your health. The food at my house is evaluated by a nutritionist; it’s better for you.” Lucas’s face suddenly turned ugly. I looked at the prominent bones on his hands and suddenly felt a bit of heartache. I held his hand and said: “Your parents are busy with work, and you always skimp on your meals. Look, you’re getting so thin.” The next second, Lucas suddenly shook off my hand. “You’d better not bring me food anymore.” 2 Lucas left. My lunchbox accidentally spilled all over the floor. The strict Dean of Students passed by, saw it, and gave me a harsh scolding. He made me write a reflection paper and clean up the floor spotless. My eyes burned a little, but I held back my tears. By the time I finished cleaning, class had already started. I didn’t know why Lucas suddenly got mad. But I figured something I said must have accidentally angered him. Did he not want to be teased by his classmates? Or was he tired of the food? Thinking about it, I decided to ask him carefully after school tonight. After the last class, I waited for Lucas at the school gate. He wore a clean school uniform, his back straight. Seeing him, my eyes lit up. “Lucas, let’s go home together, okay?” Saying that, I pointed to the new black SUV my dad just bought. Lucas’s gaze swept over my family’s car from front to back, then returned to me. “No need, I’ll ride my bike home.” The bike Lucas pointed to was an old, rusty one. Who knows where his dad got it. It was covered in rust and rattled loudly when ridden. I quickly grabbed his hand. Half begging, half forcing: “Come on, come on, my car is faster. Don’t you want to get home sooner?” Lucas’s brow furrowed, suppressing his anger. “Chloe, don’t you have your own things to do?” His voice wasn’t loud. But it was enough to stun me. What… does he mean by this? I just wanted a chance to talk to him. His class was the honors class; the workload was heavy. Plus, Lucas loved studying so much he didn’t even stop doing practice problems during breaks. I simply didn’t have much time to talk to him. But Lucas didn’t give me a second chance to speak. He walked straight towards his small bicycle. Leaving me with only a cold back. The questions I wanted to ask blocked my throat; not a single word popped out. I cursed him silently in my heart: “Stupid Lucas, why are you being so cold!” 3 Lucas and I are childhood sweethearts; we played together since we were little. It’s just that the distance between our two homes was a bit far now. Every time I went to play with him, I had to sit in the car for a long, long time. Originally, our families lived in adjacent mansions. But when Lucas was five, his dad decided to raise him in poverty. My parents tried hard to stop him at the time. But Lucas’s dad said resolutely: “Boys must be raised poor. We must temper their will and train their bodies from a young age, so they can endure hardship and exhaustion.” So, five-year-old Lucas moved away. Moved to a very small, very dark apartment. I had been to that apartment; it was a bare concrete room. It was already in a sunless location, and the dim lighting made it look like a giant animal cage. It was suffocating. And Lucas spent over a decade growing up in such a small, cramped room. Even his food, clothing, and transportation were extremely strained. I didn’t understand. There are many ways to teach a kid the value of hard work. Why did his dad have to create such an extreme environment? Later, I heard my parents say that Lucas originally had an older brother. Because of some setbacks in relationships and work, he took his own life. Lucas’s dad attributed the reason to a fragile inner world. So he insisted on having a second child with his wife, and Lucas was born. My parents specifically warned me never to tell Lucas about this. Otherwise, his dad would be unhappy. I could only nod and agree. But I couldn’t help pitying Lucas. He was supposed to be a privileged child, yet he was forced to grow up in a small room with extremely poor lighting. And knowing the truth, I could only stand by and watch. The feeling of knowing the truth but not being able to speak was too torturous. So I could only quietly be good to Lucas in my own way. When we were little, I would save half of my snacks for him. As we grew older, I always invited him to play at my house. Lucas was very cute every time he accepted with a blushing face. Later, slowly moving into middle school, Lucas rarely came to me. I didn’t mind too much, just thinking he didn’t want to travel so far to see me. So I frequently stuck to him. Habit is a scary thing. With hindsight, I realized I seemed to have fallen for Lucas. He was good-looking and had good grades. Although usually taciturn, he was special to me. Falling for him was inevitable. I silently decided in my heart: after the college entrance exams, I would confess to him. After all, Lucas seemed to like me a little bit too. But now, I started to waver. Does Lucas… really like me? 4 The next day was the weekend. My mom said we were going to eat with Lucas’s family. Just like usual. We chose an ordinary restaurant. After entering the private room, I greeted Mr. and Mrs. Miller. They still kept up their act perfectly. Wearing worn-out clothes from head to toe. I smiled politely and sat next to my mom. While the adults were chatting, I saw a bottle of loquat juice on the table. I offered proactively: “Mrs. Miller, isn’t Lucas allergic to loquats? I’ll ask the waiter to change the water.” Mrs. Miller said subconsciously: “Lucas? He’s not allergic.” The smile on my face suddenly froze. Before I could speak again, Lucas came back from the restroom. I sat back down, but my thoughts were a tangled mess. Last week the temperature dropped. I noticed Lucas coughing non-stop for days, so I brought homemade loquat syrup from home and put it on his desk when no one was around. I even attached a sticky note: “This works really well, give it a try.” But the next day, he put the unopened bottle of loquat syrup back on my desk. I confusedly asked him why. Lucas’s tone was as flat as if he were talking about the weather: “Thanks. But I’m allergic to loquats. Don’t trouble yourself in the future.” My thoughts returned. I felt a bit lost. He clearly wasn’t allergic, why wouldn’t he accept my goodwill? I looked up at Lucas. He wasn’t looking at me, his face still flat. But I knew him. Lucas was unhappy right now. I couldn’t figure it out, and didn’t know how to ask. At the dinner table, the topic somehow turned to the two of us, soon-to-be high school graduates. Lucas’s dad asked me where I wanted to go for college. I subconsciously looked at Lucas. But Lucas shifted his gaze away. My heart swelled, and I lowered my head feeling a bit lonely. I answered: “Anywhere is fine. If possible, I still want to be with Lucas.” I didn’t dare to look up at Lucas’s face. But I heard his dad joke about how close Lucas and I were. We used to be close, indeed. But now, I wasn’t so sure. I felt like I couldn’t read Lucas anymore. His dad asked Lucas what he thought. I heard him say: “Everyone has their own path to walk, just focus on yourself.” My heart felt like it was pricked by a needle. It wasn’t anger, but a profound sense of powerlessness. That sentence seemed specifically directed at me. Lucas was telling me: he didn’t want to be with me. 5 The next day, I woke up with red, swollen eyes. On the nightstand lay two pairs of wool gloves. The weather was getting cold now; he must be freezing riding his bike to school. That’s why I bought them to give to him. Thinking about it, I had already bought them, I might as well give them to him. During the familiar long break, I packed the gift box, preparing to give it to Lucas. Just as I reached the door of his classroom, I heard Lucas chatting with someone else. “Bro, you got another love letter, so jealous.” “If you ask me, this subtle way is the best. That Chloe from Class 4 runs over here every day, like a simp.” “Tell me about it, Bro is sick to death of her, and she still keeps forcing her stuff on him.” “If Bro wasn’t trying to protect the little girl’s self-esteem, he would have rejected her ages ago.” “Exactly, Bro’s most important task right now is studying. We’re counting on him to get into an Ivy League. Who has the mind to deal with Chloe’s pursuit.” I stood blankly at the back door of the classroom. Listening to their words land word by word. But through it all, Lucas never said a single word. Was that tacit agreement? I do like Lucas. But I also know now is not the time to date. Even if I were to pursue him, it would be after the college entrance exams. What I’m doing now is just trying to make Lucas’s life a tiny bit better. What gives him the right to assume I’m pursuing him. I was so angry my eyes turned red, but I couldn’t say a single word. If I had known… I should have just cursed them out. Just then, someone noticed me. Alerted by a classmate, Lucas slowly turned his head and saw me. The moment he saw my tears clearly, he immediately rushed out. I didn’t want to see Lucas in this embarrassing moment. So I ran towards the garden downstairs without looking back. But Lucas chased after me. He grabbed my wrist. “Chloe, what’s wrong.” 6 I couldn’t stop myself from wanting to cry, biting my lip hard. Lucas took out a tissue to wipe my tears. “Don’t cry, what happened.” After saying that, Lucas looked down and glimpsed my gift box. His face sank a bit: “What’s this, another gift for me?” Only then did I realize I was still holding the wool gloves. I exhaled heavily, just wanting to give him the item quickly and leave. “Here, for you. You can wear them when you ride your bike.” But Lucas didn’t take them. He looked at me quietly, his tone indifferent: “I have gloves. Whatever I use is the same.” I bit my lip, looking at his face. I just felt he was so unfamiliar. My heart felt like it was gripped tightly; I couldn’t breathe. The things I treasured and put my heart into, in his eyes, were totally unnecessary. Until this moment, I finally felt it clearly. The gap between Lucas’s and my understanding of our relationship was like a chasm. After a few seconds of silence, I asked in a choked voice: “Lucas, why do you always reject me? Weren’t we fine before?” Lucas frowned, staring at my face. After a long while, he asked in confusion: “So, are you really pursuing me?” I opened my mouth, just about to explain. But was interrupted by Lucas. He rejected me righteously: “I don’t need your charity, and I won’t accept your pursuit. Give up.” My eyes instantly widened. Charity? Charity! The goodness I had shown him for so long, in his eyes, was just charity and pity? My sincere, unrequited goodwill was actually seen by him as blatant relief?! So that was it. The goodness I thought I was showing was actually hurting his self-esteem all the time. No wonder when our families ate together, only Lucas had a tight face. No wonder every time I invited him to play at my house, Lucas would awkwardly refuse. No wonder when I casually helped him buy study guides, he insisted on shoving those few crumpled dollar bills into my hand. I suddenly didn’t know whether to be angry or find it laughable. I looked at Lucas with complex eyes. Then nodded calmly. “Okay, I understand.” “I won’t bother you anymore.”

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After my boyfriend died, I was bullied, and I went to his grave in the middle of the night to cry and complain. I blamed him for leaving so suddenly and letting me get bullied. I also told him before I left that I was going to find someone new to replace him. Who knew that after I went back… The people who bullied me went crazy. The people who coveted me avoided me like the plague. The people who looked down on me became respectful. And when I went to meet the blind date my friend introduced to me. I discovered… “You look exactly like my dead boyfriend.” “That’s great, welcome to treat me as his replacement.” Only, as we got deeper into the relationship, his habits highly overlapped with my ex-boyfriend’s. Including that aspect. “Is he better, or am I better?” I, who had long discovered the clues, bit his hand. “You two are clearly the same person!” 1 “Liam, you’re not here, and they’re all bullying me.” At 1 AM, I sat in front of Liam’s grave. Rambling on about what had happened during this period. “He’s married, has kids, yet he’s still touchy-feely with pretty young boys. Tell me, how can someone like that live till now?” After speaking. I laughed self-deprecatingly again. How can they still be considered young boys? But being pretty is true. When Liam hadn’t passed away yet. He always liked to praise me. Praising me for being pretty, praising me for good looking. Every day, he wished he could take me with him wherever he went. In his words. “Babe is so pretty, if I don’t keep a close eye on you, someone might steal you away from me.” And the result now? “Liam, someone really came to steal me away from you, how can you just not care at all?” Actually, in the beginning, that sleazy boss of mine didn’t dare to treat me like this. 2 After all, Liam used to pick me up from work every day. He was tall and big. The muscles on his body were also obvious. One punch could embed someone into a wall. So even if that sleazy boss had any ideas about me. He didn’t dare to make a move at all. But now it’s different. Everyone in the company knows. Liam passed away. I was at work when I received the news of his accidental death. The overly obvious emotional fluctuations made everyone notice. So much so that this secret couldn’t be hidden. And it resulted in the current situation. “Liam, you big liar, didn’t we agree to be together forever?” Now he went back on his word and left first. “You made me become alone again.” Although it was summer, the wind at 1 AM still felt a bit cold. I wrapped my coat tighter around myself. But I didn’t want to leave. After all, this was a meeting opportunity Liam had urged me many times in my dreams to exchange for. If I just said two sentences and left, who knows how angry he would be in my dream tonight. Since Liam was buried, I haven’t visited him. He, on the other hand, often came into my dreams. At first, he just thought I was sad and didn’t want to go. Later, he discovered that I seemed to be deliberately not going. So he started making a fuss in my dreams. “Chloe, you’re too cruel. It’s been so long, and you haven’t even visited me. I just died, you know!” Liam in the dream was no different from when he was alive. Just as unreasonable. Just as clingy and loves to act spoiled. Just as loves to shift the blame onto me. “Liam, you’re already dead. Even if I visit you, you can’t see me. Might as well meet in dreams.” 3 At least we can still talk. If I went to the cemetery. It would just be me rambling alone. If I did it too often, I was afraid I’d become neurotic. So I resolutely refused to go. And Liam’s nightly visits in my dreams were only for one thing. That was to urge me to visit him at the cemetery. I don’t know if it was the messy stuff at the company giving me a headache. Or if I was getting a headache from Liam’s urging. So I came. I picked the most unlikely time for anyone to be here. “Liam, do you know why I didn’t come to see you? Because I didn’t know what I should say to you.” “I know you definitely want to hear that without you, I’m still living a very good life.” I wiped Liam’s photo. Tsk. How can someone be so handsome? “But unfortunately, I can’t make your wish come true, because I’m living a very bad life, so I didn’t dare to come see you, because I know I can’t lie.” As if not relieving my anger enough. I repeated it again. “Liam, did you hear that? Me! Chloe! I’m living a very bad life without you!” After shouting this sentence. I laughed self-deprecatingly again. Why get angry with a dead person? It’s not like he can crawl out of the grave to coax me. Besides, Liam, I watched him burn into a pile of ashes. I told Liam that many places we used to go to had changed. It hasn’t been half a year since he passed away. It’s as if everything in this world vanished and reorganized with his departure. I wanted to find a bit of memory between him and me. It seems I can’t start anywhere. Originally I just wanted to briefly talk about recent events. In the end, it turned into a complaints session about Liam. 4 Talking and talking. Complaining and complaining. It’s nothing more than complaining that he left suddenly, without giving me any chance to say goodbye. “Liam, tell me, shouldn’t I also start my new life?” “If I had known you would only accompany me for these few years, I would rather we had never met. That would be better than letting me suffer like this.” People who have seen happiness and lost it. Are far more painful than those who have never obtained happiness. Checked the time. It’s about time to go back and get ready for work. I intended to leave directly. But after moving a bit, I remembered something again. Standing in front of Liam’s grave, looking at the beautiful eyes in his photo. “Liam, tell me, I’m still so young, shouldn’t I go find a new person?” I can’t possibly stay a widow for Liam my whole life, right? “I know, there will definitely be no one better to me than you, and no one can surpass you in various aspects, but I thought about it, actually these are not very important, just being able to stay by my side healthily is enough.” I watched the candle flame fluttering slightly in the wind. “Liam, if I find a new person, you should also be happy for me and bless me, right?” The voice fell. I didn’t leave or speak. Just silently watching the burning candle. Suddenly. The candle went out. But there was no wind or rain at this moment. It could only be a certain jealous person. But I pretended not to understand what he meant. Talking to myself. “Looks like you really bless me, then that’s fine, I’ll ask someone to help me keep an eye out later, I know you definitely can’t bear to see me live alone.” After speaking, I packed up my things and left. Just as I turned around, a gust of wind suddenly blew. Such a big temper even after death? 5 When I went to work the next day, what I thought was, if that old sleazebag still wanted to do something to me today. I would just resign directly. Anyway, Liam didn’t leave me much else. But he did leave me quite a lot of money. We are both orphans, especially Liam, he didn’t even have relatives. At least I still have some relatives I can call by name. So after he passed away, I wasn’t worried at all. Someone would come to me for Liam’s inheritance. Since there is a guarantee. Then there is no need to suffer anger. But what I didn’t expect was that the old sleazebag didn’t come today. “Seems like he got sick.” My colleague, Sam, is the company’s know-it-all. No matter what happens, he is always the first to know. This time was no exception. “Sick? Is it serious? He actually didn’t come to work.” I didn’t need to speak, someone nearby was already asking. “Don’t know, seems like he encountered something unclean, heard he almost went crazy, then missed a step and fell from upstairs.” My heart skipped a beat. Thinking of what I did in the middle of the night yesterday. Could it be? But I quickly dismissed this idea. How could it be Liam who did it. If he really had such ability, he would have come back to find me long ago. Instead of doing other bad things. It must be me overthinking it. “I think it’s because he did too many bad things himself, has no ability himself, yet oppresses us every day, he will get his retribution sooner or later, isn’t this it coming.” Sam curled his lips. He also usually couldn’t stand this old sleazebag. But helplessly, the old sleazebag had backing behind him. Simply couldn’t do anything about him. Now that he’s in trouble, naturally everyone is happy. 6 “I think so too, it’s best to break a leg, best never to come again.” I silently agreed in my heart. It’s best never to see him again, so at least I can still stay here and work for a while. If he recovers from his injury and comes back. Then I’m quitting. Might as well take this opportunity to go out and play. “Eh, Chloe, what did you go do last night? How come your dark circles are so heavy?” Sam leaned over. Pointing under his own eyes. I blinked. “Nothing, just didn’t sleep well, going back tonight to rest well will be fine.” Sam probably thought of Liam’s matter, but in the end, said nothing. The best comfort is not to mention anything. Actually, I think they are too cautious. The current me has accepted the matter of Liam’s passing very well. Even if this matter is mentioned, I won’t feel anything. Probably. I will really miss him for my whole life. The old sleazebag really isn’t coming. Heard the fall injury isn’t very serious, but the person seems to have gone crazy. Yelling and shouting in the hospital every day. When colleagues who went to visit the sick mentioned this matter. The whole process was smooth. “Anyway, couldn’t see the person, just heard barking, the whole person’s state was also very bad, estimate there’s no way to come to work normally.” As expected. A few days later. A person was air-dropped into the leadership position. Took over our department. The new leader is very strict, but won’t do other things, on the contrary, treats us quite well. Everyone works more energetically under such a leader. And I, who originally wanted to resign. Finally gave up this idea. It’s quite good to stay. 7 “Liam, it really couldn’t be you who did it, right?” I burned incense for Liam, then stared at his portrait for a long while. Finally popped out such a sentence. Actually I know. It couldn’t be Liam. Where in the world are there so many ghosts and gods things. Even if there are. It couldn’t happen to me. Thinking about it, I smiled and shook my head. “It’s me being too tired recently, really dare to think anything, if you really could do such things, how could you not come find me, probably met someone better? Think us humans are different so won’t want me anymore, right?” Finished speaking. I also carefully considered this possibility. Finally shook my head very firmly. How is it possible. Liam only had feelings for me alone, and it was him who actively pursued me. Before the accident, I felt like he wished he could merge with me. Wishing he could stay by my side twenty-four hours a day. Shouldn’t be him. But what happened later, seemed a bit strange. The person in the same neighborhood who pursued me before, but wouldn’t give up after I rejected him, seems to have suddenly figured it out. When seeing me, it’s like seeing some enemy. Turns and runs away before getting close. Thought about it, recently we don’t seem to have said anything harsh. But fewer people harassing me, I am happy to be at ease. It’s just that overnight, all my suitors seemed to have disappeared. No matter if it’s serious pursuit of me. Or purely just want to develop some irresponsible relationships with me. All disappeared. If these are all coincidences. Then the next thing, really cannot be explained by coincidence. Every year I return to my hometown to visit my parents’ graves. 8 When I went back before, those relatives would point fingers at me. Saying I cursed my parents to death. Later Liam went back with me. They didn’t dare to say it in front of us. But there was no less discussion behind our backs. For example, how we two men got together. And some other stuff. I can imagine what they said this time back. Nothing more than, I really am a jinx. Not only cursed my own parents to death, now even my own boyfriend didn’t escape. But what should be gone back still must go back. Things that should be done still must be done. Only. They didn’t say anything. Instead, the way they looked at me was fawning. As if they suddenly wanted to have a good relationship with me. No one asked about Liam’s matter either. Everyone kept quiet about his passing. Too strange. Could it be that someone really is silently helping me behind my back? Which good-hearted person can do to such an extent? “Liam, if it’s really you doing it, come find me in my dream tonight to claim credit, if it’s really not you, then I might be targeted by someone, I’ll go to the police tomorrow.” Before going to bed, I said this sentence to Liam’s portrait. But he didn’t come at night. Of course I didn’t choose to call the police either. After all, can’t find the person, and the other party didn’t do anything to me. Going to say like this. Estimate people would think I’m crazy. What makes me unbearable is. I suddenly found several of my underwear missing. One of them is even my favorite! I searched every corner of the house. Don’t have pets, so impossible to be taken away by small animals. But I searched every nook and cranny of the house. None.

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When Liam and I fought the fiercest, he cursed at me to get lost. He said, “If it wasn’t for you, I would have been with Chloe long ago.” Hearing this, I sneered. “Chloe? Are you worthy of her?” “Only I am.” “I am the optimal choice you can get.” “The top tier, understand?” 1 Chloe, my older sister. Beautiful inside and out, great grades, high IQ. It’s not surprising that Liam liked her. After all, my secret crush, Arthur, also liked her. This caused me great pain. Chloe, my sister. Such a wonderful existence, I truly couldn’t bear to do anything to her. But she just happened to be the sweetheart of my secret crush. What could I do? I could only beat up Liam. When Arthur talked to Chloe, I beat up Liam. When Arthur held hands with Chloe, I beat up Liam. When Arthur hugged Chloe, I beat up Liam. When Arthur kissed Chloe, I beat up Liam. When Arthur and Chloe got together, I wailed and beat up Liam. It’s not that Liam didn’t think about fighting back. But he couldn’t beat me. Although he’s taller than me and has eight-pack abs. All his workouts were for body sculpting, hoping Chloe would lust after his beauty. I was different. I learned kickboxing, Taekwondo, and Jiu-Jitsu. Thinking that if Chloe ever abandoned Arthur, I would lock him up, hehehe. So we waited and waited, and then Arthur and Chloe got married. One of us gave the bride away, the other welcomed the groom, both crying like two dogs. Everyone said they were a loving uncle and nephew, and we were deeply affectionate sisters. (Note: Arthur is Liam’s young uncle). But they didn’t know how badly we wanted to crash the wedding. We didn’t do it; our last shred of moral standard restrained us. That time, I didn’t beat up Liam. We got wasted, hugged each other and cried bitterly, and then started making out. 2 Yes, that’s right, we slept together. Whether Liam was driven by alcohol-induced lust, I don’t know. Anyway, I wasn’t. I was just giving up on myself. If I couldn’t give myself to the person I loved the most, then I’d give it to someone with a good face. If I can’t give myself to the person I love most. Giving it to a dog is the same. Later, we slept together many more times. Passionate in bed. Once out of bed, we warned each other. “Friends with benefits, understand? Don’t get clingy!” Finally, our parents started rushing us to get married. First was Liam’s dad. He tagged him in the family group chat. [Look at your young uncle, how happy he is after getting married, deeply in love with your aunt, aren’t you envious?] At that time, Liam was drunk. Replied: [Envious. So should I marry my aunt too?] One sentence literally stunned the group chat into silence for five minutes. His dad sent over a dozen sixty-second voice messages in a row. His mom roared: “Are you trying to tear this family apart?” His aunt (my sister) sent a question mark. His uncle sent a polite smile emoji. Liam knew he was dead meat. So he slid onto his knees, hugging his dad’s thigh. “I meant my aunt’s sister. Since my aunt is so wonderful, her sister can’t be bad either. I want to marry my aunt’s sister.” 3 How great. How beautiful this world is. The person I loved the most became my brother-in-law. And I could marry my nemesis, making my brother-in-law my young uncle at the same time. Sure enough, the world is a circle. Liam knelt before me. “I know you saved my dog life, I’ll agree to anything!” I nodded, my voice calm. “Then go die.” “That won’t work.” “Then I’ll kill you.” I hadn’t beaten up Liam in a long time. Out of practice, I actually forgot to lock the door. Just as I was straddling his waist, ready to unleash a flurry of punches on him, his parents, my parents, plus my sister and Arthur, all stood outside the door at the same time. Their eyes full of benevolence, like holy halos, blinded my dog eyes. They nodded one after another. “So wonderful.” “We didn’t even know these two kids were together.” “Adding family ties to family ties.” “Simply wonderful.” “Get married, get married immediately.” I compromised. Let’s marry. Gotta get married eventually, who cares to who? 3 (Continued) On our wedding night, Liam set three rules with me. “A marriage of convenience, right? You play your way, I play mine.” I shook my head. “If I meet someone I like, you can’t stop me.” I shook my head. “Then if I want to go out and have fun, you can’t control that, right?” I shook my head, then nodded. Liam broke down. “What do you mean?” “Mia, you don’t actually like me, do you?!” I rolled my eyes to the ceiling and immediately gave him a hard slap on the head. “Do I not need face?” “You are Mia’s man, yet you’re hugging and kissing others, and I have to turn a blind eye?” “Let everyone know I’m wearing a green hat (being cuckolded)?” “Liam, I’m warning you, if you dare to step out of line, I’ll break your legs.” I, Mia. Grew up with a strong sense of entitlement. In this world, there is only what I don’t want, nothing I can’t get. Of course, Arthur being the exception. Losing to Chloe, I don’t feel ashamed. But if Liam dared to make me lose face… Hehe, I have plenty of strength and means. 4 But Liam was just not one to stay in line. He went on a date. The date was a college student. He took the little girl to eat Western food, considerately cutting her steak for her. Then took her to a movie, always casually lowering his head, making the little girl blush. Finally dropped the little girl back at school, hugging her gentlemanly and restrainedly. Acting like a proper human being. The photos were sent to me by a private investigator. Liam hadn’t been acting normal recently. Always staring at his phone, raising his eyebrows, curling his lips, and even using emojis he never used before. Even his profile picture changed to a view of his own back. A glance and you know he didn’t take it himself. And he wouldn’t be so vain as to have a guy take it for him. So it could only be the opposite sex. Which opposite sex? Around Liam, no one who knows of my existence dares to get close. So it must be someone who doesn’t know about me, not in our circle. Outside the circle? That leaves even more room for imagination. So I hired a marriage mediator (PI) to follow Liam. 4 (Continued) Today is his third day following Liam. Leaving home in the morning, Liam looked in the mirror for ages, styling every strand of hair. He dressed ordinarily, specifically choosing an outfit without visible logos. Even grabbed a cup of fresh milk from the fridge. I asked him where he was going. He said playing poker. Looking at it now, he wasn’t playing poker, he was inspecting the goods. Looking at the photos, I was very calm. Calmly finished my meetings, calmly got off work, calmly went home. Calmly took out the bottle of wine Liam treasured the most from the wine cabinet. Liam’s car pulled in. I stood there calmly. He got out of the car. “What are you doing here…” Before he could finish, I raised the wine bottle and smashed it over. “F*ck!” Liam turned pale with fright and quickly dodged. His car wasn’t so lucky, smashing into pieces, a mess all over the ground. “Are you crazy? What nerve are you tweaking?” I didn’t say a word. Raised a foot and kicked him right in the stomach. Liam stumbled back repeatedly and fell to the ground. I pressed down, my knee digging into the soft flesh of his stomach. Slapped the photos onto his face with a smack, smack sound. “Giving me a green hat? Do you have a death wish?” Liam’s face, originally full of anger, turned to embarrassment after hearing my words. He cleared his throat. “I didn’t even do anything, get off me.” I sneered and increased the pressure. Liam let out a muffled groan. “Are you done? Do you think I don’t dare touch you?” “Then show me.” As soon as my words fell, Liam suddenly raised his leg and thrust upward fiercely. As I lunged at him, he flipped over and pinned me underneath. He looked smug. “Did you really think I couldn’t beat you? I was letting you win, understand?” My face turned extremely ugly. I raised my head, opened my mouth, and bit down hard on his arm. Liam let out a howl. “Are you sick!” “I didn’t even really do anything.” “Is this necessary?” With a cold face, I kicked him off me. “Is it necessary? What, do I have to catch you in bed?” “Can you not speak so harshly?” “You think my words are harsh? Are your actions any prettier?” “What did I do? Look at you instead.” He pointed to the wine on the ground. “Do you know how much that wine costs? Do you know how many people I had to ask? Mia, you are truly sick!” He fired off sentence after sentence. I watched him squat down, picking up the glass shards with a pained expression. Watched him glare at me with vicious eyes. The photos were still in my hand, crumpled out of shape by me. Finally, I swung my arm and threw the photos at his face. “Divorce!” “I’m f*cking divorcing you!”

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Do you know how miserable it was for a family without a son in a traditional, tight-knit rural community? At community meetings, my dad had no right to speak. At Thanksgiving dinner, my mom wasn’t allowed at the main table. Even when inheriting property, we only got the dilapidated, leaky old farmhouse. Until I was five, and my mom got pregnant again… 01 When my mom had me, she lost a lot of blood and almost didn’t make it. For years after, she didn’t get pregnant again. The local midwife said she likely damaged her body and wouldn’t have any more children. When we divided the family property with my uncle, I was four. My dad was very angry: “I paid for half the materials and put in the labor to build the new house. Why do I only get the old farmhouse?” My aunt, nursing my cousin, said dismissively: “You don’t have a son, what do you need such a big house for?” “Look at us, we have three boys. They’ll need a place to live when they get married!” My grandma chimed in: “Girls are meant to be married off anyway. You’ll have to rely on your nephews to take care of you in your old age!” My dad’s spirit broke instantly. It sounds ridiculous now, doesn’t it? But the idea that nephews were “real family” and daughters belonged to “other families” was very common back then. My dad came out of the living room and sat on a big rock in the yard, his head hanging low. The moonlight was bright, casting a deep, dark shadow beside him. I walked over and hugged his neck from behind: “Daddy, I’ll take care of you and Mommy when you’re old.” He patted my hand, his voice choking: “Okay, Lily is such a good girl.” In the end, we still moved into the old farmhouse. The family’s old tractor and farming equipment were all given to my uncle. We only got a rickety old manual thresher. The night we moved in, my mom tried many times but couldn’t get the old wood stove to light. This house was built by my great-grandfather. It had mud-brick walls and a thatched roof. Because it had been empty for so long, the dampness inside wouldn’t dissipate anytime soon. After using up a whole box of matches, my mom suddenly covered her face, her shoulders shaking continuously. My dad poured the water he fetched into a cracked bucket and walked silently to her side. My mom hugged his waist and burst out crying. That night, I slept on a bed in the north room. The cold wind pierced me from all directions through the cracks. I curled up in the stiff, old quilt, praying silently: Please let Mommy have a little brother. That way, she and Daddy probably wouldn’t be so sad anymore. Perhaps God heard my prayer. My mom soon got pregnant. 02 The women in the community all said that since my mom’s belly was pointy and she craved sour food, it must be a boy. My dad kept saying a boy or a girl was the same to him, but at dinner, he told my mom: “John invited me to go work in Texas next year. He says there are more opportunities there.” “I’ll work for a few years, save some money, and we’ll build a nice two-story house. Otherwise, he won’t be able to find a wife in the future.” My grandma brought over two laying hens and instructed me: “Lily, the eggs are for the little brother in Mommy’s tummy. You can’t be greedy, understand?” The gossiping women in the neighborhood asked me: “Lily, do you want a little brother or a little sister?” I answered without hesitation: “A little brother!” The women laughed out loud: “If you have a little brother, your parents won’t love you anymore.” I got anxious: “No way! I’ll always be Mommy and Daddy’s precious.” The women laughed even louder, completely oblivious to how terrifying those words were for a four or five-year-old child. The day came, and my mom went into labor. She was in pain all day without giving birth. Before dawn the next day, my grandma went to the local butcher and bought a large piece of fatty pork and a huge pork bone. By the time she returned with the meat. My mom had given birth. It was a little sister! My grandma stood in the yard holding that bag of meat. The midwife called out to her: “Come in and see your granddaughter, she’s so fair and chubby!” “I’m not looking. My oldest’s boys are still waiting for me to make breakfast!” She left the bone behind and took all the meat with her. Times were hard then, meat was scarce. Every household loved fatty meat, so bones were sold cheap. I went into the room to see my sister. She was wrinkled, her face red like a little old man, completely different from the “fair and chubby” the midwife described. My mom lay weakly on the bed, staring at the thatched roof, tears streaming from the corners of her eyes. My dad smoked his cigarette: “Don’t cry, since she’s here, she’s here.” My mom gave birth right during the autumn harvest. My grandparents were busy at my uncle’s farm, and my dad was busy harvesting our crops too. My mom stayed in bed for three days before getting up to cook for us. Because of this, she developed a chronic condition; her whole body would ache whenever it rained. That year during Thanksgiving, my two aunts from the city also came back for dinner. My aunt was playing cards with them while my sister cried from hunger. My mom was in the smoky kitchen preparing the Thanksgiving dinner with my grandma. After a busy afternoon, it was finally ready. My mom found a moment to go nurse my sister. When she finished, she found there was no seat for her at the table. My dad and my older cousin were about to get up, but my grandma stopped them: “Why make it so complicated? We’ll just eat in the kitchen.” 03 It was too much bullying. I pulled at my parents, wanting to go home. My mom held my endlessly crying sister with one hand and patted my head with the other: “What does a child know? Just eat.” That night, as we left my uncle’s house, my aunt smiled and twisted the knife in my mom’s heart: “Sister-in-law, honestly, you have it much easier than I do.” “You don’t know how exhausting it is to raise three boys.” There was no moonlight that night. Every house was brightly lit. The dim yellow light spilled over the muddy country road. I softly asked my parents why we had to endure this. My dad’s tone was irritated: “What do you know, you’re just a kid.” My mom’s face was steeped in shadows: “Who asked me to be unable to bear a son.” Ah. They didn’t believe I would take care of them in their old age. My dad didn’t go to work in Texas. Because he didn’t have a son, there was no need to build a new house. We just got by day by day. People say country folks are simple, but when they twist the knife, they are more ruthless than anyone. I don’t know when it started, but my dad got a nickname: “Mule Smith”. A mule is a hybrid of a horse and a donkey. It cannot reproduce. When the community was raising funds to repair the local church, someone laughed and suggested: “Let’s skip the Mule’s family. They don’t have a son. Making him pay would be too much bullying.” My dad stayed silent. My mom only dared to choke back complaints at home, but put on a smiling face outside, never daring to argue back. I couldn’t change them, I could only make myself stronger. They called my dad “Mule Smith,” so I cursed their whole family as mules. When my cousins bullied me and my sister, I used my teeth to bite and my feet to kick. Even if my face was bruised and swollen, I had to tear a piece of flesh off them. My grandma took away the chicks our family just hatched, saying she would raise them for us. As she raised them, they became my uncle’s. I chased them all the way out and snatched them back. My aunt tied her cow near our vegetable patch, and it ate a whole patch of newly sprouted spinach clean. She hypocritically said it wasn’t on purpose. I opened the gate to her vegetable garden and let all the chickens in. They pecked her whole garden of vegetables away. She was so angry she stood with her hands on her hips, cursing my mother. I cursed back at her: “If you dare to eat our vegetables again, I’ll take a scythe and cut down all the crops in your field.” Gradually, I became notorious in the community. Those aunts and older women always advised me: “You don’t have a brother. If you have such a big temper, when you get married, there won’t be anyone to back you up.” My mom also sighed looking at me: “Just like this, it’s not even certain she can get married!” But Mom. I am only… Protecting you, protecting this family. In the blink of an eye, it was time for my sister to go to preschool. That day, two major events occurred that affected my life. 04 First, on my sister’s first day of preschool, the teacher taught counting. After only three times, my sister could count from one to a hundred. The substitute teacher, who was from our community, praised her to my mom: “Your Chloe is much smarter than Lily.” Second, an older relative in our extended family was diagnosed with stomach cancer. Back then, there was no good medical insurance. For people in rural areas, getting cancer was basically a death sentence. However, unexpectedly, his daughter, who had gone to community college and was working in the city, took him to the hospital. They removed half his stomach. He survived, and even chatted eloquently with people in the community about interesting things during his hospital stay in the city. That day, returning from that relative’s house, my mom grabbed my dad, who was about to go play poker: “David, Chloe is so smart. If we just cultivate her well, she won’t be worse than a son!” With conviction, my parents were revitalized. At heart, they treated me and my sister the same. But from that day on, my sister received more favoritism. If there was only one drumstick, it definitely belonged to her. If she didn’t want to eat breakfast at home, my mom would give her fifty cents to buy a muffin. I only got that kind of treatment when I was sick. Every Christmas, my sister would definitely get a new outfit. While I always wore the hand-me-downs my two aunts brought back from the city. During the busy harvest seasons, my sister didn’t have to go to the fields. My mom said: “Your hands are for writing. These chores aren’t for you.” “Chloe, you must study hard and bring honor to our family.” My sister was indeed very smart. She was always first in her class and got certificates every semester. The certificates back then held much more weight than they do now. I have to say, studying relies heavily on natural talent. I had to work several times harder than my sister. I went to bed at eleven and woke up at five every day. On the way riding my bike to school, I would memorize ten vocabulary words. On weekends, I went to the mountains to cut bamboo, pick mushrooms, and gather wild berries. I saved the money from selling them to buy extra workbooks. Back then, the school had row latrines. Once, I took a math test paper while squatting in the toilet. By the time I solved the problem, my legs were numb, and I almost stepped into the pile of waste. I always adhered to the idea that “the clumsy bird catches the worm by starting early,” but the results were not obvious. Although I didn’t want to admit it, I was just an ordinary person in the crowd. The background extra in a TV show, the passerby A in a novel, the “who was that again” at a class reunion. My mom kept nagging in my ear: “Lily, you’re the older sister. You must protect your sister, support your sister.” You don’t need to repeatedly remind me, Mom. From the moment my sister was born, I have been protecting her. Soon a few years passed, and I took the high school entrance exams. The scores hadn’t come out yet when my friend Sarah from the community invited me to work in a factory in the city. Her face was full of longing: “In the factory, you can earn eight hundred a month!” “I could buy pretty dresses, and I want to get my hair permed.” The midsummer heat was brutal. My aunt sat under the big maple tree fanning herself and said to my mom: “Lily can go make money to pay for Chloe’s tuition. You two will have it much easier.” My mom smiled: “Yes, it all depends on Chloe now.” I stalled as long as I could, finally reaching the day the scores were released. It was a scorching summer, but my hands and feet were as cold as ice. Even though I had given it my all, I was still nine points short of the cutoff for the top high school. Just nine points… If I had worked a little harder, if I had done a few more practice tests, if I had carefully checked every exam… Would my life have been different? The admission letter for a vocational high school was sent home. That night, under the dim yellow light, my mom sighed looking at the letter: “Lily, hardly anyone from this vocational school gets into a good college each year.” “Chloe is in fifth grade this year. Your dad and I want to send her to the middle school in town next year, but that’s a big expense…” “If both of you study together, your dad and I… sigh…” The incandescent bulb had a bad connection, making a “sizzle sizzle” sound, like a saw repeatedly cutting the bottom of my heart. My parents looked at me silently, waiting for me to say: “Never mind, I won’t go.” 05 My sister, innocent and naive: “If sister wants to go to high school, she should go. I can just go to the middle school in the community, it’s the same.” My dad scolded her: “What do you know? Can the community school be the same as the one in town?” After a long silence, I clenched my fists and spoke: “Then I won’t go to high school.” “The homeroom teacher said with my grades, if I go to community college, tuition will be waived.” I practically begged, “Mom, Dad, when I graduate from community college, I will definitely earn back the money spent these three years.” Looking back at that period now, I can understand my parents’ choice. The family’s resources were limited, so they had to supply the one who had a better chance of succeeding. An ordinary girl like me was destined to be given up on. But if I had the chance to travel back in time, I would definitely throw a tantrum, kneel and beg, do everything in my power to go to high school. My grandma and aunt both scolded me: “Why can’t you be more considerate of your parents? The other girls in the community have all gone to work. Your grades aren’t even good, what’s the point of continuing to study!” The women in the community also advised my parents: “Community colleges don’t guarantee jobs anymore. It’s useless to go. If it were a son, that’s one thing, but a daughter? Why spend so much money on her!” “Let her go to work early and build you a house. You never know when your mud-brick house is going to collapse.” Before school started, my mom gave me living expenses and repeatedly reminded me: “It’s not easy for us to support you. You must spend frugally.” The community college was in the city, and the cost of living was completely different from the countryside. Two hundred dollars a month was barely enough for food. The internet was starting to boom then, and I signed up for Facebook. Chatting with Sarah on Facebook, she said: “The work on the assembly line isn’t meant for humans. 12 hours a day, only four days off a month. If you don’t finish your quota, they dock your pay.” “Facing those parts every day, I’m going crazy.” “Lily, it’s better to study. There’s a foreign company across from our factory. Those white-collar workers wearing heels and lipstick sitting in offices, they have it so easy.” Korean dramas were popular then, so I chose Business Korean as my major. I set a goal for myself: I must get into a foreign company, I must work in a cubicle. Although I wasn’t as desperate as in middle school, I didn’t slack off either. I worked hard. When my roommates went to the internet cafe, it was all to play games or watch shows. I usually went to look up information or practice pronunciation along with Korean dramas. I got up punctually at six every day, ran, ate breakfast, studied by myself, and then went to class. When there were no classes, apart from doing part-time jobs, I basically spent my time in the library. I read a lot of books. I was young then and didn’t know how to discern and choose well. So I just swallowed everything whole, cramming it all in. The atmosphere at our school wasn’t good; not many people studied. Boys and girls all dyed their hair in trendy, edgy styles. Girls wore heavy smoky makeup that obscured their eyes; boys wore earrings and smoked. Some of the bolder ones hugged, kissed, and groped in the cafeteria. As long as there were no pregnancies, the teachers didn’t care at all. To save on travel expenses, I didn’t go home normally. Every time I called my mom, she would always remind me repeatedly: “Don’t cause trouble at school. Spend your money frugally. It’s not easy for your dad and me to make money.” I rarely bought new clothes, always rotating the same two bras, and didn’t touch cosmetics. Going out with my roommates, even spending two dollars on the cheapest lemonade made me feel guilty. Yes. My mom’s reminders made me feel guilty for every penny I spent. Many years later, when I could make money myself, the first thing I did when shopping was check the price tag. Even if I could completely afford that piece of clothing, I still lacked the underlying confidence. Poverty had been firmly etched into my bones. I spent a very, very long time slowly wearing away its brand. But, perhaps I will be affected by it for the rest of my life. An upperclassman named Ryan, who was very handsome, liked me. He pursued me for over two months, buying me food every day and waiting downstairs. 06 My roommates all advised me to go out with him. “He’s so handsome, and I heard his family is quite well-off.” “He’s not bad to you, give it a try.” … I refused. Smoking, drinking, fighting—in the eyes of a fifteen or sixteen-year-old girl, there’s a wild kind of handsomeness. But I didn’t like it. About a month later, Ryan got a new girlfriend, who actually turned out to be a senior from the neighboring state university. He paraded around with her, and many guys praised him for his skills. He even made a point to show off in front of me. During our late-night dorm chats, my roommates were indignant. “It hasn’t been that long, and he’s already moved on to someone else.” “I don’t think that girl is all that. She’s three or four years older than us, and not as pretty as you, Lily.” … After a round of condemnation, the dorm president said softly: “But she’s from the state university, a real university student.” For a moment, the dorm was dead silent. We already understood then: there was long an invisible chasm dividing us from them. Because of the reverence for academic degrees, those guys all envied Ryan, because he crossed that chasm and held the hand of someone on the other side. That senior seemed to never have class, following Ryan around our school every day. My sister passed the entrance exam for the junior high in the county seat. My parents rented a small place there to accompany her. This caused a huge uproar in the community. My grandma stamped her cane and cursed: “She’s a girl! You put in so much effort, just to spend money for another family!” “If you have that money, help out your own nephews. Don’t end up with no one to mourn you when you die.” The villagers also mocked them overtly and covertly. Saying my parents might as well just adopt a son-in-law to live with them. My mom held onto her pride, telling my sister she must succeed. She also told me: “You must study hard too. When you start interning, the burden on me and your dad will lighten a bit.” Opportunities in the small county seat were scarce back then. My parents pushed a cart selling street food, often getting chased away by city management. The money they earned was barely enough for the family’s expenses. Community college was a two-year program. During the summer after the first year, internships started. The school arranged for everyone to go to assembly lines. I refused. Along with a few classmates who usually stuck together to study, we decided to find jobs ourselves. These past two years, my grades were always at the top. I also participated in several competitions and won awards. I had leverage. I bought myself a set of professional clothes and had a roommate do my makeup. The weather was great that day. When I left, the sky was filled with a radiant sunrise. It was a good omen. I brought my resume, full of confidence and hope, to attend an interview at a foreign company. Surprisingly, I ran into that senior from the state university. She was also among the interviewees. I felt a moment of panic but quickly calmed down. She skipped classes every day, spending her time in internet cafes or bars. While I had been studying seriously all along. While waiting, I went over my Korean self-introduction in my mind again and again. Striving to be flawless. Finally, the interviewer appeared. She quickly scanned the collected resumes, then divided them into left and right piles. “Jessica, John, Sarah, Lily…” She called my name. I quickly stood up, ready for battle. However, the HR manager’s next words were like a bucket of ice water poured over my head.

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