Author: Momo Chan

At the company’s jewelry launch event, my boyfriend Quinn—the CEO—had planned to propose to me in front of everyone after seven years of secret dating. But when he pulled out the engagement ring, his assistant Jenna suddenly stepped onto the stage, smiling sweetly as she leaned into his shoulder: “Proposing already? Aren’t you spoiling me a little too much?” The audience erupted in cheers, commenting on what a perfect couple they made. Quinn didn’t deny it. Instead, he slid the ring onto Jenna’s finger and even claimed credit for my new jewelry collection, saying it was all Jenna’s work. I didn’t cry or cause a scene. I simply took off my “Chief Designer” nameplate and set it in front of Jenna. “Consider this position my wedding gift to you two.” What Quinn didn’t realize was that I held all the patents, and clients only trusted my name. He had just thrown away his only shot at turning the company around—with his own hands. Gasps rippled through the crowd as I handed Jenna my nameplate. After all, I’d poured my heart and soul into this collection for years—collapsing from low blood sugar in the design studio more than once. But soon the room erupted in applause. Colleagues praised my “graciousness,” calling me a true professional for stepping aside after all these years with Quinn. Only Quinn stood frozen on stage, his expression unreadable as he stared at me with lips pressed tight. Watching his awkward reaction, I almost laughed. Quinn had always insisted he didn’t want his personal life in the spotlight, so we kept our relationship under wraps for seven years. I’d begged to go public countless times, but he’d always refused. When I finally got him to agree to this proposal, Jenna had to crash the moment. Now, whether he still planned to propose or not didn’t matter—I wanted nothing to do with it. “Well, if there’s nothing else, I’ll head out. Enjoy the rest of your evening, everyone.” Without waiting for Quinn’s response, I walked straight out of the banquet hall. The launch was a hit because my designs had generated massive buzz—high-end clients were already lining up to place orders. I held the patents for the collection’s core designs, and every late night I’d pulled at the office had led to this moment. But after this betrayal? There was no way I was sticking around to clean up his mess. Before I knew it, I was in the elevator heading down to the parking garage. I slid into my car, and there on the passenger seat sat a huge bouquet of red roses. Today was supposed to be our day. I’d bought the roses and even made dinner reservations, I was so excited. What a joke. After all that anticipation, he chose to play hero for Jenna instead. My expression hardened. I was about to start the car when Jenna suddenly appeared in my headlights. She twirled my nameplate between her fingers, a triumphant glint in her eyes, and simpered: “You know, Harper? Quinn was gonna propose to you today. But all it took was one little conversation to change his mind.” “Don’t tell me that hurt your feelings?” She raised an eyebrow, her face twisted with malice. Her smug little grin almost made me laugh out loud. Back in the day, her little digs used to get under my skin—making Quinn think I was the unreasonable one, sparking fights that went nowhere. But now? I couldn’t care less about her games. Sure enough, the click of dress shoes echoed across the concrete. Jenna’s expression did a complete 180. Clutching my nameplate, she started pounding on my car window: “Harper, please don’t be upset! Quinn didn’t give me your job because he favors me—I begged to learn from you! If it bothers you that much, I’ll step down right now.” “A position like Chief Designer needs someone with your experience! I could never fill your shoes!” Her voice quivered like I’d just yelled at her, carefully pushing the nameplate toward me. Quinn picked up speed, flinging his suit jacket onto my windshield. Thud. He barked: Harper! When someone’s talking to you, you roll down the window! You could’ve hit her! Have you lost all your manners?” I couldn’t help but snort. I rolled down the window, ready to tell them both the job was all hers. But Jenna—thinking I was about to take back the nameplate—panicked. Her fingers fumbled with the ribbon, yanking it away. Next thing I knew, she doubled over, clutching her stomach, face white as a sheet, muttering something about her period cramps. What a performance. And of course, he fell for it hook, line, and sinker. Quinn forgot all about yelling at me. He rushed to prop Jenna up, digging a heating pad out of her purse like it was a lifeline. He turned to me, flustered and frantic: “Harper, are you just going to sit there? Drive us to a hotel so Jenna can lie down!” I rolled my eyes and tried to pull away. But Quinn planted himself in front of my car, jaw set—like he’d rather get run over than let me leave. Unbelievable. I’d curled up in the office bathroom with cramps before, and Quinn didn’t spare a second glance—just told me to “tough it out.” Now Jenna fakes a stomachache, and Mr. Cool-as-a-Cucumber CEO turns into a panic-stricken mess—like his own safety doesn’t even matter. I sighed and drove them to the nearest hotel—reluctantly. In the hotel room, Jenna claimed she felt better, and Quinn let out this huge sigh of relief—like she’d just survived a heart attack. I couldn’t watch their little show anymore. I turned to go. But Quinn chased me into the hallway, grabbing my arm. I tensed up, ready for another lecture about “being nice to Jenna.” Instead, he hung the nameplate around my neck and even smoothed out my dress like nothing had happened. He softened his voice: “Harper, you know Jenna—she’s always joking around. We’ll do the proposal another time, okay? Just be patient.” “That Chief Designer title isn’t something to throw around. Don’t be dramatic. I’ll let this little outburst slide.” I hummed noncommittally. Quinn studied me for a long minute, then reluctantly held out a crumpled box—like he was doing me a favor. “Look, Harper. I saw those flowers in your car. They’re nice. Why don’t you put them in a vase when you get home? Actually… I got you something too.” Classic Quinn move—hurt me, then try to buy me off with a trinket. The box looked familiar. I remembered Jenna posting about something similar on Instagram half a month ago. She’d “accidentally” ruined a scarf he gave her, crying about it online like it was the end of the world. Quinn commented that he’d replace it right away. I took the box and flipped it open. Inside was a cheap scarf—fuzzy pills already forming on the edges. The price tag was still stuck to it. He splurged on designer scarves for Jenna, but I got stuck with this dollar-store garbage. I didn’t even bother calling him out. I just said: “Got it. I’m leaving now.” As I rounded the hallway corner, I spotted a trash can and dropped the box in without a second thought. Then I pulled out my phone and called the luxury brand that had been courting me: “I’ll take the job.”

They were a global powerhouse—had been trying to poach me for years. But I’d always said no. I wanted to build something with Quinn—our dream. The HR rep gushed about their benefits package, salary, and how excited they were to have someone with my talent. By the time we hung up, I was pulling into my driveway. Staring at the hour-long call log, I tightened my grip on the phone. Years ago, I’d turned down that dream job to build this company from the ground up with Quinn. I’d worked myself to the bone—stressing over deadlines, running on fumes, burning out. We’d gone from rags to riches together… but somewhere along the way, he’d checked out. From now on, I was done sacrificing for someone else’s dream. I texted our brand partners to let them know about the design lead change. They’d signed those big contracts because of me—invested in my vision, not some random assistant. They deserved to know the truth before Jenna ran the company into the ground. Then I booked a flight for tomorrow and started packing. Digging through the back of my closet, I knocked over a photo album hidden under a coat. A picture of Quinn and me fell out. Eight years old—our first year together. We looked so young, so hopeful, just shyly leaning into each other. I picked up the album and flipped through the pages. Funny—Quinn was the one who insisted we take all these photos. “To remember where we came from,” he said. “So I can always make it up to you.” We’d been through so much together. Crammed into that tiny apartment, sharing popcorn and old movies. Silly fights over holiday plans, both trying to let the other have their way. Back then, those struggles felt like happiness. They kept me going. Slowly, the photos changed—nicer clothes, fancier backdrops… but fewer and fewer pictures of us together. From daily snapshots to monthly, then yearly. Once Jenna showed up? No new photos at all. Our conversations dwindled to work updates and nothing else. He stopped noticing when I skipped meals, when late nights made me sick, when I got hurt scouting locations for inspiration. But Jenna? He dropped everything to take her to dinner when she “felt off.” Spoiled her like she was fragile, like he owed her something. I confronted him once, asked why the double standard. He looked at me like I was being ridiculous. “We’ve both been through tough stuff,” he said. “I expected you to be more mature than this—not act like Jenna.” He said he loved Jenna’s “innocence,” didn’t want her to “suffer like we did.” I stared at the album—once our most precious possession—and suddenly it felt like garbage. I tossed it in the trash without a second thought. I went back to packing when my phone rang. It was the fancy restaurant I’d made reservations at: “You’re 30 minutes late for your reservation. If you don’t arrive in 10 minutes, we’ll have to give your table away.” I hate Western food, but Quinn swears by it—thinks it’s “classy.” He took me to one for our first date, so I’d made tonight’s reservation there. I’d booked this fancy spot for our post-proposal celebration—his favorite steakhouse—but he’d blown me off for her. I kept my voice steady: “Cancel it. Give the table to someone else.” Quinn texted me right after I hung up: “Stuck at work. Can’t make dinner tonight.” Something about that text felt off. Quinn never bothered with excuses before—just stood me up and didn’t care. Then it hit me. Jenna had just posted on Instagram. There was Quinn, cutting steak in the exact restaurant I’d reserved. Caption: “My hero ❤️ Quinn makes the best steak ever!” How convenient. So *they* were the “other guests” the manager mentioned. I didn’t bother asking him why he lied. No anger, no sadness—nothing. I just felt… numb. All I wanted was to sleep. I washed up and crashed—first real sleep I’d had in years. But the bedroom light suddenly flipped on at some ungodly hour, jolting me awake. I squinted against the brightness—and there was Quinn, standing over my bed. His eyes were wide, like he couldn’t believe what he was seeing: “Harper… you’re actually sleeping?”

I rubbed my eyes and checked my phone. 3 AM. He actually came home? This late? Normally, when Jenna so much as sniffles, Quinn spends the night playing nurse—afraid she might keel over or something. Now he stood there scowling, like I’d personally offended him: “Harper, I’m exhausted after working late, and you didn’t even text? Didn’t wait up? Seriously?” *I’m* the problem here? I bit back an eye roll. When I used to call to check on him, he accused me of being ‘controlling.’ When I stayed up with dinner waiting, he said I was ‘too clingy.’ Now I’m giving him space, and he’s still mad. I grunted noncommittally and reached to turn off the light. Quinn flopped onto the bed, practically draped over me like a dead weight: “Harper, I’m beat. Can’t you run me a bath?” Jenna’s perfume hit my nose—cloying, sickly sweet. Gross. I used to wait on him hand and foot without him asking. Now? He just sounded entitled. I pushed him off me. I scowled, voice sharp with sleep: “I’m tired. Do it yourself.” Quinn froze, like he couldn’t process that I’d actually pushed back. After a long pause, his knuckles whitened around his belt buckle as he ground out: “Harper, I miss one dinner and suddenly you’re giving me the cold shoulder? Real mature.” “You think I even wanted to come home tonight?” He stormed out, slamming the door so hard the walls shook. I heard him grab his keys and peel out of the driveway. Once upon a time, I would’ve chased after him—begged him to stay. Now I just flipped off the light and rolled over. I slept in the next morning—no alarms, no stress. Felt amazing. I was about to make coffee when I froze—Quinn was home. Normally, after a fight, he’d be at the office by dawn—no need for me to play peacemaker. He was perched on the couch, gift box on his lap, fussing with a bow. He looked up when I walked in. Quinn jumped up, grabbed my wrist, and held a necklace from the box against my neck. The metal was icy against my skin. He adjusted the pendant, nodding like he was approving a design: “Perfect. Not too flashy, just right.” I recognized it from Vogue—this season’s must-have, price tag in the five figures. Before I could pull away, he snatched it back and polished the pendant with a tissue. As he tucked it back in the box, he mumbled: “Good thing your neck’s as skinny as Jenna’s. If it fits you, it’ll look great on her.” I almost laughed. Right—Jenna’s the necklace girl. Why would he waste this on me? Quinn grabbed his jacket, scooped up the box, and headed for the door. I stepped in front of him: “Quinn, we’re done.”

Quinn froze, then slammed the box down on the entryway table. He scoffed: “Really, Harper? The breakup threat again? You can do better than that.” “You think because you designed one popular collection, you’re untouchable?” “I don’t have time for your games.” I kept my voice steady: “This isn’t a game. I’m letting you go. Now you can make Jenna your official girlfriend.” Quinn’s scowl deepened. He jabbed a finger at me: “Still in denial about being jealous? Cut the breakup threats, Harper. They’re getting old.” “Jenna just… reminds me of simpler times. I value her work ethic. It’s not what you think.” “I was gonna propose. But you’re making this impossible.” He didn’t wait for a response—just stomped out, slamming the door behind him. Predictable. I pulled up my email and hit send on the resignation letter I’d drafted. HR called an hour later, asking me to come in and finalize paperwork. The second I walked in, I heard the office chatter: “Jenna! Is that the new Cartier necklace? Quinn really splurged on you!” “You two are goals! With you heading design, we’re gonna kill it this season!” Jenna flipped her hair back, practically preening with the diamond pendant on display. She spotted me and rushed over, grabbing my hand like we were besties: “Harper! Perfect timing! Quinn’s treating everyone to coffee to celebrate me taking over design. What’ll you have?” I pulled my hand away. Before I could speak, Quinn stepped in front of her, arms crossed like a bodyguard. “Nice of you to finally show up. Think you deserve a coffee after this stunt?” “HR’s already reviewing your attendance. And honestly? A Chief Designer who can’t even be on time? You’re off the upcoming collections.” “Start with intern-level work. Maybe learn some professionalism.” Jenna gasped, clutching his arm: “Quinn, don’t be too hard on her! She did work on the collection… a little. Maybe she just needs more guidance?” Quinn sneered, looking me up and down like I was dirt on his shoe: “Please. You’re ten times more talented. She’s just bitter she can’t keep up.” “Jenna, you’re officially Chief Designer. The collections are yours now.” Jenna’s eyes lit up, but she put on a shy act: “Quinn, are you sure? I’m still learning… maybe I’m not ready?” The office rats jumped on the bandwagon: “Totally! Harper’s been slacking—left on time yesterday and showed up late today. She needs a reality check!” “Jenna’s got real talent. Seniority doesn’t mean squat if you can’t deliver.” Quinn smirked, playing along: “Prove yourself, and maybe I’ll let you keep your job…” I tuned out their little performance. I cut him off, tone flat: “I’m here to process my resignation, actually.” Quinn went rigid. “What?” HR scurried over and whispered in his ear. Quinn’s face turned crimson. “Harper, are you serious right now?” “First the breakup, now this? Do you realize we’re about to hit the luxury market? This company’s going places!” “Everyone here’s getting a bonus when we launch. People would kill for this job!” I met his gaze evenly: “Approve the resignation, Quinn. Or I’ll have my lawyer handle it.” The room went silent. Quinn’s hands balled into fists, knuckles white. “You’ll regret this.” “Fine! Go! I’ll sign it myself! Jenna’s your replacement—effective immediately!” He snatched the papers from HR, pen hovering—eyes glued to my face, waiting for me to beg. When I didn’t flinch, he doubled down: “Jenna’s getting a promotion, a raise, and a company car! That’s what top talent deserves!” I laughed out loud. Cute. He thought flaunting Jenna would make me jealous. What he didn’t know? The investors were already downstairs—here to discuss breach of contract. Quinn’s jaw tightened. “What’s so funny?” I shrugged. “Ask them.” I stepped aside with a smirk. The investors’ lawyer strode in. He didn’t waste time: “Mr. Archer, replacing the lead designer violates our contract. We’re pulling all orders and terminating the partnership.”

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Today marked my first day as a newlywed. I headed to my husband Frederick Chris Corporation to drop off his lunch—he’s the CEO there. The second I pushed open the CEO’s office door, I froze. A woman in my silk pajamas was sprawled across the executive chair. “Who let you in? What do you think you’re doing?” She kicked her feet carelessly, voice oozing with disdain. I opened my mouth to respond when an assistant beside me grabbed my arm, whispering frantically: “That’s Jade Evans. Mr. Chris personally told us to look after her. If you upset her, we could both be fired today!” I set the lunchbox down and calmly dialed my assistant: “Tell Frederick to bring divorce papers and get here right away.” My first day as a newlywed dawned uneventfully. With the afternoon free, I decided to make lunch and surprise my husband at the office. I stood outside his office, hand raised to knock. The door swung open, revealing a woman in silk pajamas with a men’s suit jacket slung over her shoulders. “Who are you? What are you doing here?” She sized me up, tone turning aggressive. I held up the lunchbox, voice steady: “I’m bringing Frederick his lunch. And you are?” Those two words—”his lunch”—seemed to set her off. She blocked the doorway, voice sharp: “You’re delivering food? Since when does anyone just wander up to this floor?” She gestured to the suit jacket on her shoulders—obviously Frederick’s. “Listen, I’ve seen your type before. Look at me, then look in the mirror. What makes you think you’re good enough for Frederick? Drop the food and get out.” A nearby assistant paled. She rushed over, lowering her voice to explain: “I’m so sorry! She’s new here and doesn’t know protocol. Please don’t take offense! I’ll get her to leave right away.” As she spoke, the assistant gave me meaningful glances, clearly urging me to leave quickly. Jade let out a cold laugh, spinning around to slam the office door shut behind her. The assistant hurried to whisper: “Her name’s Jade Evans. She’s someone Frederick’s really taken with. Don’t cross her—one word from her could get both of us fired.” I was taken aback, but staring at that closed door and the lunchbox in my hand, I pushed down the emotions swirling inside me. I needed to stay calm. To get answers, I decided to wait. This might be the perfect chance to see the truth for myself.

Before long, Jade’s voice called from inside the office. “Hey you, new girl—get in here.” I stepped inside. She was touching up her makeup in the mirror, not even glancing my way: “Why are you standing all the way over there? Come here and rub my shoulders. They’re killing me.” I walked over and placed my hands on her shoulders. “What, you didn’t eat today? Put some muscle into it!” she snapped immediately. I barely increased the pressure when— “Ow! Are you trying to hurt me?!” She swatted violently at my hands, knocking over the freshly poured hot coffee beside her. Most of the scalding liquid splashed onto my hands and clothes. “Useless! Can’t even do one simple thing right! Get out of my sight!” She dabbed at imaginary coffee stains on her fingers with a tissue, voice dripping with disdain. My hands throbbed with searing pain. Just then, the assistant rushed in, positioning herself protectively in front of me and forcing a smile at Jade: “Miss Evans, please don’t be upset! She’s new and still learning the ropes. I’m so sorry on her behalf! It’s not worth getting worked up over—if you get stressed, Mr. Chris will be upset with us, and we can’t afford that.” As she spoke, the assistant discreetly tugged my arm, whispering: “Go now. Don’t argue with her here—it won’t help.” Seeing the assistant’s subservient attitude, Jade’s expression softened slightly. She capped her lipstick slowly: “Hmph, at least someone here knows their place. Fine, I want to check on the launch event setup. Show me the way.” Check on the launch event? The assistant looked uneasy: “They’re still setting up the venue. It’s pretty chaotic right now… Maybe it’s better to wait until later?” “Better to wait?” Jade raised an eyebrow. “I decide what’s better. Frederick said I could oversee company matters whenever I want.” She clicked toward the door in her heels. As she passed me, she paused, eyes sweeping over my coffee-stained clothes and red hands. A cruel smile twisted her lips: “Some people really think bringing a meal makes them Cinderella. Frederick Chris ‘s name isn’t something you can just latch onto. Smart girls know when to disappear.” With that, she sashayed off.

By the time I gathered my thoughts, Jade had already swaggered into the launch event setup area. “Oh my God, what is this mess? So boring and lifeless!” She flicked a finger disdainfully at an adjusting light, shoving it roughly aside. Then she pulled a crumpled design sketch from her Hermès bag and slammed it onto the control panel: “Clearly you’ve never seen real style. Whatever, I’m feeling generous today. Change the whole color scheme to pink-purple and swap all these lights for rotating disco balls. Now that’s chic!” As she spoke, she tried to snatch the walkie-talkie from the event director’s hand, ready to start barking orders. “Jade! That’s not happening!” The event director finally snapped, stepping in front of her with urgency: “Every detail of this launch was finalized months ago. We can’t just make random changes! This affects the company’s professional reputation!” “Rules? Reputation?” Jade laughed like she’d heard the most ridiculous thing. “You think your boring little plans are better than my eye? Do you have any idea how much buzz my changes would generate?” “Move out of my way!” The event director stood firm: “Jade, this is about professionalism! If this launch fails, none of us can fix it! Please don’t put us in this impossible position!” Jade’s face darkened when the director kept standing up to her. She pulled out her phone and started a video call. “Frederick, look! Your employees are being so rude! I’m just trying to help with the launch and they’re being impossible! They even yelled at me!” Frederick’s voice came through the phone, soft and reassuring: “Calm down, baby. Put the person in charge on.” Jade smirked and thrust the phone at the event director. Frederick’s tone turned icy instantly: “Everyone involved apologize to Jade right now! Otherwise, you’ll all be written up for gross insubordination. This month’s pay and bonuses are gone! I don’t repeat myself!” The event director’s lips trembled. Staff nearby went pale, exchanging desperate looks. Frederick clearly didn’t like the silence—his voice turned even colder: “Well? Do I need to say it again?” The camera suddenly jostled. Jade actually turned the camera toward Frederick, wanting us to see where he was. The screen showed a private room in a fancy club. Frederick sat with several older men—definitely a business dinner. Frederick was in the head seat. When he saw Jade pouting, he shook his head like he was amused, not annoyed at being interrupted. His eyes were full of doting. “Frederick…” Jade didn’t care he was in the middle of business—she started fake-sobbing into the camera. “Look at them—ganging up on me! I just wanted to make the launch better and they’re all being so mean! They’re totally ruining my ideas! You have to help me!” As she talked, she forced out a few tears for the camera. That sad little act was nothing like her earlier bossy attitude. Frederick’s expression immediately soured. He didn’t ask what actually happened—all his focus went to Jade on screen. “Okay, okay, don’t cry. You’ll ruin your makeup. What’s got you so upset? I’m here—no one’s gonna mess with you!” He cooed at her, then looked up at us with ice in his voice: “Is everyone here deaf?” “I said do exactly what Jade tells you! And apologize!” If I don’t see you cooperate in three seconds…” Before he could finish, I stepped right in front of the camera. “Frederick, you really want me to apologize?”

“Lydia?” Frederick sounded shocked. The surprise on his face quickly turned to irritation. He didn’t even notice my messy clothes, just rubbed his temples like I was a headache: “Lydia, what are you doing there?” “Aren’t you supposed to be home enjoying your day off?” I met his eyes steadily. “What do you think?” Frederick glanced at the event director and staff behind me, lowering his voice: “Quit causing problems. Just do what Jade says and apologize. We’ll talk about this when I get home tonight.” Those words made everyone freeze—not just me, but the staff too. Jade puffed up with pride, adding fuel to the fire: “Frederick, she was so mean earlier! The director only talked back because she told him to!” Frederick immediately cooed at Jade through the screen: “Jade’s harmless, she was just trying to help.” “Just apologize. Don’t make this harder than it has to be.” I looked at him and laughed. “Frederick, you want me to apologize? Seems you’ve forgotten who you’re married to. Be here in five minutes, or I’ll make you and your company regret it.” I didn’t wait for his response. I ended the call. Without hesitation, I pulled out my phone. I called my assistant. “Bring my marriage certificate to Frederick’s office. And have our lawyer draw up divorce papers immediately.”

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The company landed a major client and was throwing a banquet to celebrate. My fiancé, Liam, took me to his friend’s boutique to pick out a gown. “Yvette’s a renowned designer. Just listen to what she suggests.” But when I tried on the dress, I discovered it looked absolutely hideous. The waist was bulky and unflattering, and half my ass was exposed. Just as I was about to protest, Liam looked at me with disgust: “You really do look terrible in everything! Let Yvette go in your place as my fiancée to the banquet instead.” At his words, Yvette immediately pulled out a gown she’d prepared in advance and slipped it on. I watched them walk out hand in hand, all lovey-dovey, and the realization hit me like a ton of bricks. They’d been hooking up behind my back all along. Too bad Liam had no idea—he only landed this deal because I was the client’s daughter. I tore off the rag of a dress and dialed my phone. “Dad, cancel the deal we just signed with Liam.” “All right, take a look and see if you like it.” I opened my eyes at the sound of the voice, only to be startled by my own reflection in the mirror. The elegant, haute couture gown had been transformed into tattered rags. The waist had been deliberately taken in so tight it created rolls of flesh, making me look like a trussed-up slab of pork belly. The fabric on the back had vanished entirely, leaving most of my rear exposed to the cold air. Most insulting of all were the “artistic” cutouts across the chest, perfectly positioned to display both the edges of my bra and my excess flesh in all their glory. “Yvette!” I grabbed at the precarious fabric, trying to keep it from falling. “You did this on purpose?” The dressing room spotlights suddenly blazed to life, illuminating my humiliation in merciless detail. Yvette covered her mouth and took a step back. “Miss Laurel, how can you say that? It’s just that your figure… needs some adjustments in certain areas.” Her gaze swept pointedly over my waistline. That’s when I noticed she was holding up her phone, the camera pointed straight at me. Blood rushed to my head. I lunged forward and snatched the phone from her hands. The screen clearly showed a video recording interface. “Liam, look,” came Yvette’s deliberately lowered voice from the video, “I told you she couldn’t pull off your taste…” The dressing room door suddenly swung open. Liam stood in the doorway, one hand in his pocket. His gaze raked over me like a scanner before landing on my hand gripping Yvette’s wrist. “Had enough of your tantrum?” He loosened his tie, his Adam’s apple bobbing with disgust. “Yvette’s a featured designer at Paris Fashion Week. What are you?” Yvette seized the opportunity to wrench free from my grip and scurried behind Liam like a frightened rabbit. “Don’t be angry, Liam,” she said, her fingertips lightly tugging at his sleeve. “Miss Laurel probably just isn’t used to haute couture…” My eyes reddened with hurt and anger. “Liam, she deliberately cut up the dress like this, and she was secretly recording me…” “Enough!” Liam cut me off sharply, his eyes cold as ice. “Yvette’s been my friend since childhood. You really think she’d do something like that?” Yvette’s eyes glistened with moisture. “Miss Laurel, I know you have issues with my relationship with Liam, but you can’t slander me like this…” I clutched the ruined fabric, my nails digging into my palms. “Then how do you explain this? You cut my dress to pieces!” Liam frowned impatiently. “Stop making a scene! Laurel, there’s no way you can attend the celebration banquet looking like this. Just don’t come tonight.” “What?” I looked up in disbelief. His gaze shifted to Yvette, his tone self-righteous: “Yvette attends high-end events all the time. She has way more experience than you. Tonight’s banquet is crucial—the client’s CEO will be there. We can’t afford any mistakes. I think she should go instead.” Before I could respond, Yvette let out a cheerful squeal. “Liam, what perfect timing—I just happen to have brought a backup dress.” She reached into the wardrobe and pulled out a champagne-colored mermaid gown. One she’d clearly prepared in advance. Liam’s gaze lingered on her for a few seconds, the corner of his mouth turning up slightly. “I’d appreciate you coming with me tonight.” A chill ran through my entire body as understanding finally dawned. “You planned this all along, didn’t you?”

Yvette pretended to look innocent as she nestled into the man’s embrace. “Liam, she’s misunderstanding me again~” Liam looked me up and down with disgust. “Look at yourself right now—you look like a streetwalker. How could you possibly go?” Yvette leaned against him, covering her mouth as she laughed softly: “Don’t say that, Liam. I think Miss Laurel’s current look really suits her personality.” I gripped the torn fabric tightly, forcing down the humiliation. “Liam, you two can go, but at least give me something decent to wear.” “Why should I?” Liam sneered. “Do you even deserve nice clothes?” He wrapped his arm tighter around Yvette’s waist. “Look at Yvette—now that’s the kind of figure that deserves haute couture. As for you…” “You’re nothing but a joke.” Yvette suddenly pulled something from her bag that looked like a filthy dishrag of an apron. “Oh my, I happen to have this ‘outfit’ here. If Miss Laurel doesn’t mind…” She held it out with feigned thoughtfulness, malice glinting in her eyes. “It really matches your current look.” The grimy apron even had a few drops of foul-smelling yellow liquid on the hem. Seeing me frown, Yvette’s smile grew wider. “What are you standing there for? Didn’t you say you wanted clothes?” I looked at Liam in disbelief, my heart sinking to the ocean floor. Once upon a time, I had dulled my own edges as the Laurel family heiress for Liam’s sake, learning to be the “gentle and refined” fiancée he claimed to want. He said I was too shrewd, so I hid my business acumen and only smiled without speaking when accompanying him to events. He said he liked docile women, so I became his subordinate, paving the way for his climb to success. I thought he appreciated my compliance. I thought his feelings for me were real. But it turned out that in his eyes, I was nothing more than a gullible fool! I swallowed my rage and picked up the apron, barely covering myself with it. “Don’t forget, Liam—this project only succeeded because of me.” A flash of awkwardness crossed his face, but it instantly transformed into contempt. “Because of you?” He grabbed my chin, forcing me to look up, his eyes full of mockery. “Someone like you thinks you deserve credit?” Yvette helpfully handed him a glass of ice water, which Liam took and poured directly over my head. The ice water ran down my hair and into my collar. I couldn’t control the shiver that ran through me. “Who knows if you didn’t just sleep with the client?” He leaned close to my ear, but his voice was loud enough for the entire room to hear. “After all, with a body like yours…” His fingers traced maliciously along my exposed waistline. “That’s about all you’re good for.” Yvette covered her mouth, laughing until she nearly doubled over. “Liam, you’re so bad~” “Though with her shameless appearance right now, it really is quite possible…” I wiped the water from my face and suddenly laughed. “Liam, since you think so little of me, let’s break off our engagement.” He froze for a moment, then smiled as if he’d heard the funniest joke, his lips curling into a mocking arc. “Fine. But don’t you dare regret it.” He gave me a contemptuous glance. “Don’t come crying back to me later.” Yvette immediately linked her arm through his, triumphantly tilting up her chin: “Miss Laurel, you’d better think carefully. A man like Liam isn’t someone just anyone can aspire to.” I looked down, adjusting the remnants of fabric on my body, my voice calm: “Don’t worry. I won’t regret it.” Liam scoffed, pulling Yvette closer by the waist and turning toward the door. “Good.” He tossed the words over his shoulder without looking back: “I’m taking Yvette to the celebration banquet. This project is extremely important. Someone as low-class as you would only embarrass yourself there.” The door slammed shut heavily. I stood there for a moment, then slowly pulled out my phone and called my father. “Dad, I’ve broken off my engagement with Liam.” There was a moment of silence on the other end, then my father’s deep voice came through: “He initiated it?” “No, I did.” I smiled softly. “Though he agreed quite readily.” My father’s voice turned cold: “Does he know about the contract?” “He has no idea.” I stroked the dress that had been cut to shreds, my eyes ice-cold. “Good.” My father’s voice carried anger. “In that case, the partnership is void, effective immediately.”

I found a hotel to shower in and finally got that disgusting outfit off, changing into clean clothes. But just as I was about to leave the hotel, I was suddenly grabbed by a group of men in black who covered my mouth and dragged me into a van. When I woke up, everything was spinning. Once my vision finally focused, I saw Liam and Yvette standing over me. “You’re awake?” Liam stood with one hand in his pocket. “The celebration banquet is about to start. I can’t have you going there to cause trouble.” That’s when I realized I was tied to a chair, my wrists bound with rough rope that had already left bloody marks. Yvette was holding my phone, waving it tauntingly: “Liam was worried you’d make a scene at the banquet~” “This is illegal detention!” I struggled violently, the chair legs scraping against the floor with a harsh screech. “Liam, have you lost your mind? Kidnapping your fiancée over a banquet?” Liam suddenly leaned down and grabbed my chin, his grip so tight it felt like he might crush the bone: “Fiancée?” He sneered. “Didn’t you just say you wanted to break off the engagement?” Yvette covered her mouth and laughed. “Too late for regrets now, Miss Laurel~” I jerked my head to the side and bit down hard on her finger. She screamed and yanked her hand back, throwing herself against Liam. “Liam, look what she did!” Liam slapped me across the face. The burning pain made my vision go black. “Bitch!” He grabbed my hair, forcing me to look up. “After the banquet’s over, I’ll deal with you.” Yvette rubbed her reddened finger, suddenly putting on a troubled expression. “Liam, if we leave her tied up here, what if she escapes?” Liam’s brow furrowed, then he suddenly sneered. “Then we’ll make sure she doesn’t dare run!” “Strip her!” I looked at them in horror as they approached: “What are you doing?” Yvette smiled knowingly and ripped open my collar. “Taking some ‘artistic photos’ of you, of course~” “No!” I struggled desperately, the chair crashing to the floor. Liam planted his foot on my waist. The pain made me arch my back. “Stay still.” He crouched down, holding his phone camera almost against my face. “Smile, Miss Laurel.” The camera flash went off repeatedly. I squeezed my eyes shut in despair. Yvette directed him from the side: “Liam, get a few close-ups. Yes, that angle…” Just then, urgent knocking came from outside the door. “Mr. Rivers? The banquet’s about to start. The chairman is looking for you.” Liam responded impatiently and pocketed his phone: “You’re lucky.” He dragged Yvette toward the door, but not before issuing a final threat: “If you dare show up tonight and cause trouble, these photos will be all over the internet immediately.”

The door slammed shut. I heard the lock click. I wriggled painfully, trying to loosen the ropes. My wrists were already bleeding, but the rope showed no sign of giving. Time crawled by. I could hear music and laughter from the banquet hall. Thinking of Liam parading around with Yvette as his fiancée in front of everyone, I was nearly consumed by rage and humiliation. Suddenly, there was a slight sound at the window. I turned my head in alarm to see a dark figure nimbly climb through. “Who?!” My voice shook. The shadow quickly approached. In the moonlight, I recognized Frederick, my father’s most trusted bodyguard. “Miss, the chairman sent me to get you.” He swiftly cut through the ropes and helped me to my feet. “The chairman says the contract has been voided. We won’t be sending anyone to tonight’s banquet. Let me take you home to rest.” I looked toward the brightly lit banquet hall outside the window, all song and dance and celebration. “No. I’m going to the banquet.” Frederick frowned: “Miss, in your condition…” “Contact my father.” I cut him off. “Tell him I want to appear as the client representative.” Half an hour later, I stood in the shadows by the banquet hall’s side entrance. My father sent a message: [Everything’s arranged. Do whatever you want.] Inside the banquet hall, Liam stood on stage in a sharp suit, wearing a confident smile. “Thank you all for coming to tonight’s celebration.” He surveyed the room, his tone smug. “I’m honored to have led the partnership with Stellar Group.” Thunderous applause erupted. Yvette sat at the head table in that champagne mermaid gown, looking every bit the lady of the house, shooting triumphant glances at those around her. Liam raised his hand for silence and continued: “Next, let us welcome…” He paused deliberately, his eyes sweeping the room. “The chairman of Stellar Group!” The room fell instantly silent, all eyes focused on the entrance. Liam’s face wore an obsequious smile. He even bowed slightly in a welcoming gesture. But the door didn’t open as he’d expected. One second, two seconds… The room descended into awkward silence. Sweat beaded on Liam’s forehead as he repeated with a forced smile: “Let us welcome Chairman Laurel of Stellar Group!” Still no response. The audience began to whisper. Yvette stood up uneasily. Just then, all the lights in the banquet hall suddenly went out, leaving only a single spotlight trained on the side entrance. The door slowly opened. I stepped forward in my heels, walking into the spotlight. Under the astonished gazes of the crowd, I smiled lightly. “As the daughter of Stellar Group’s chairman, I’m here to announce that Stellar Group is terminating our partnership with Horizon Tech, effective immediately. The signed contract is now void!”

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At the company banquet, the beautiful intern Serena Coleman flirted with my husband, begging to see the hearing aid on my ear. My husband yanked off my hearing aid and handed it to her with a smile. Serena examined it with disgust for a moment, then carelessly tossed it on the floor. I frantically reached down to pick it up, but she “accidentally” stepped on it, sending sharp pain through my fingers. After putting it back on, I angrily shoved Serena, only to receive a slap across my face from my husband. “Aurora, tonight’s banquet is for Serena. Stop making a scene!” I froze for a moment, then removed the hearing aid from my ear, threw it in the trash, and turned to leave. This hearing aid was the most precious gift my husband had ever given me. But now, I wanted neither him nor the broken hearing aid. Under everyone’s watchful eyes, I removed my hearing aid and decisively threw it in the trash. I smiled calmly at everyone. “You all enjoy. I’ll head out first.” Then I turned and left. My ears plunged back into silence. I couldn’t hear any sounds, as if I’d been pushed into an isolated world. I saw the anger on my husband Ethan Rivers’s face, but I didn’t care anymore. Walking out of the private room, I sent a message to my best friend Maya Smith. [I’m resigning in the next couple days to join you. I’ll come work at your company.] She replied almost instantly, her words radiating excitement. [Yes! Once you’re here, we can develop software together. We’ll have an amazing future!] Maya didn’t ask many questions, and I was grateful for that. In college, Maya and I both majored in computer science. Although we were girls, we both had a deep passion for coding and software development. We’d teamed up multiple times for competitions and won various awards. After graduation, she chose to start a business in another city, while I stayed to marry Ethan Rivers and work at his family’s tech company. Maya’s career took off quickly, while mine remained stagnant at the company. She’d often say regretfully that my talent was being wasted, offering multiple times for me to join her, but I’d politely declined each time to stay near Ethan. But now, Ethan had changed too much for the sake of a new intern. There was no point in staying anymore. When I got home, I took out my spare hearing aid and put it on. My phone chimed. Serena had sent me a video. I opened it. The lighting was dim—it was shot at a bar. Ethan had found a band to sing for Serena. “Serena is exceptionally talented. Let me sing a song for her first!” Then he sang along with the accompaniment, performing the song “Mischief.” My heart seized suddenly. I remembered what he’d once told me: “Aurora, this is a song I learned for you. I’ll only ever sing it for you.” But now, he was singing it publicly for Serena. Ethan had broken the promise he’d made to me. I closed the video with a bitter smile. Looking around the room, the coldness felt desolate. I opened my closet and began packing my things simply. Ethan didn’t come home until nearly one in the morning. Seeing me sitting calmly on the couch watching TV, his face filled with anger. “I already sent you a message. Why didn’t you come down to meet me?” In the past, whenever Ethan came home late from social engagements, I would always go downstairs early to wait, making sure we could see each other the moment he entered the complex. But this time, I didn’t want to eagerly rush toward him anymore. I picked up my phone. In my chat with Ethan, the screen was filled with green bubbles—my messages. His responses were sparse. The latest message was from him. Just four simple, cold words: [Heading back soon.] I looked at Ethan, my tone flat. “I forgot to check my messages.” Ethan strode toward me, his scolding raining down. “Aurora, what exactly are you trying to pull! Serena is younger than you—can’t you cut her some slack! She just accidentally stepped on your hearing aid, and you had to make a scene and ruin the whole atmosphere! Don’t you have any sense of maturity!” I listened quietly to Ethan’s accusations without any reaction. But my gaze unconsciously fell on his neck. There were suggestive red marks there. Noticing my gaze, Ethan froze for a moment, then unnaturally pulled his collar up to cover the marks. But his tone remained harsh. “That slap was a lesson. Don’t do this again next time! Serena is young—you need to be more understanding!” I nodded without arguing. “Got it. I’m a bit tired. I’m going to rest first.” Then I stood up and walked into the bedroom. Ethan’s face darkened. Behind me, he let out a cold “hmph.” I lay on the bed and closed my eyes, but my thoughts wouldn’t settle. —”Just accidentally stepped on your hearing aid.”

Ethan blamed me for being petty. But the hearing aid that was stepped on was the gift he gave me when we first got together. I’d always treasured it carefully, protecting it like something precious. After all this time, even though it was somewhat old, it worked perfectly fine. Back then, his face had been warm with a gentle smile as he carefully took out the hearing aid and put it on me. In an instant, the world became clear. I heard his crisp voice clearly. “Aurora White, I like you!” It was the most beautiful sound I’d ever heard in the world. But after Serena stepped on the hearing aid, Ethan brushed it off with just a few words to excuse her. He seemed to have forgotten the profound significance that hearing aid held in my heart. In the living room, Ethan was laughing heartily, saying something. Serena sent me another message—a screenshot of her chat with Ethan. They were chatting enthusiastically. Ethan had sent an affectionate “good night.” [Aurora, you and Ethan should rest early too! I won’t disturb you anymore.] Serena’s words were full of provocation. I closed my eyes and stopped looking. After washing up, Ethan went into another bedroom. Ever since Serena joined the company and they’d grown close, he’d stopped wanting to sleep in the same bed as me. My love for Ethan seemed to be slowly fading away. The next morning after getting up, I wrote a resignation letter. Then I went to the best law firm in the city and had a lawyer draft divorce papers for me. Only then did I go to the company to continue handling my work. Ethan was at Serena’s workstation, their heads close together, intimately discussing something. Strange—looking at this scene now, my heart barely rippled. Serena’s sharp eyes spotted me and greeted me. “Aurora, you came in pretty late today. You look terrible—didn’t sleep well last night?” Her eyes held provocation and smugness as she moved even closer to Ethan. “She’s been at the company so long she doesn’t even follow the rules anymore. If this continues, she won’t be able to stay here much longer.” Before I could respond, Ethan frowned and turned his gaze to me, immediately criticizing. I smiled faintly, looking at the two of them, and spoke calmly. “I’ll be more careful in the future. Thanks for the reminder, Mr. Rivers.” Hearing my response, Ethan’s expression instantly darkened. I rarely called him Mr. Rivers, but now when communicating, I was polite and distant. Without paying them any more attention, I sat down at my workstation and threw myself into work. The portion of work I was responsible for was almost complete. Even though I was about to resign, my sense of responsibility demanded I finish the job. At noon when I went downstairs for lunch, Ethan had driven his car to the front of the company. Serena cheerfully climbed into the passenger seat. Seeing me walk past, Serena called out to me. “Aurora, Ethan and I are going to an Italian restaurant for lunch. Come with us!” Though she said this, her face showed no intention of giving up the passenger seat. I shook my head and smiled at them. “I’m not used to Italian food. You two go ahead.” With that, I walked away without looking back. Ethan’s voice came faintly from behind. “She’s been so temperamental lately. Just ignore her. Let’s go eat!” I curved my lips slightly and pushed them out of my mind. During lunch, I casually scrolled through social media. I saw a post Serena had made. [Knowing I love photography, my boss gave me a camera I’ve wanted forever! Angel boss—I want to work for him my whole life!] I raised an eyebrow at the picture. On the table was an exquisite vintage camera, with Italian food clearly visible in the background. And on the camera lens was a freshly taken photo of Serena and Ethan together. Both were smiling with their eyes crinkling, looking extremely intimate. When Ethan and I first got together, I’d suddenly become obsessed with photography, wandering around taking pictures with my grandmother’s old camera every day. Ethan had given me a high-end camera and even volunteered to be my model, patiently accompanying me on photo shoots. We’d taken many pictures together, recording happy times. But after Serena appeared, Ethan’s attitude toward me began to drift. When I’d take out my camera wanting to take pictures together, he’d frown and dodge my lens. He said he didn’t really like being photographed and told me not to be so childish. But now, he’d given a camera to Serena, who also loved photography, and even left a photo with her. I shook my head and closed my phone, feeling a dull ache in my heart. After work, I returned home to find the custom dress Ethan had ordered for me had been delivered.

Ethan always said I was the most beautiful princess in his heart. Seeing me in new clothes, his eyes would always light up as he stared at me, lavishing me with praise. Then he’d gently pull me into his arms and leave a kiss on my lips. Ethan said I looked good in formal dresses, so he ordered new dresses from high-end boutiques every quarter and had them delivered to our home. Thinking of this, my heart stirred slightly. I tried on the dress, only to discover in surprise that it didn’t fit. Ethan knew my height, weight, and all my measurements, and after ordering clothes for so long, the boutique shouldn’t have gotten it wrong. I took off the dress, put it in the bag, and returned it to the boutique. Unexpectedly, I ran into Ethan and Serena there. “Serena, this dress looks wonderful on you. We can wrap it up. I’ve opened an account for you—you can come browse often from now on. All expenses will be charged to my account!” Ethan’s gentle voice drifted over. I glanced in their direction. Serena wore this season’s new dress, her hair cascading over her shoulders like seaweed, her skin like snow, her smile radiant. She looked vibrant and beautiful. And Ethan’s eyes sparkled with admiration as he pulled her into his embrace. The two smiled at each other, the atmosphere intimate. “Miss White, why are you here…” A store clerk recognized me and exclaimed. Her voice was neither loud nor soft—both Ethan and Serena heard. They quickly separated and turned to look at me. Anger rapidly flooded Ethan’s face. He strode toward me, loudly questioning me. “Aurora, what are you doing here! Are you following me?” I looked at him calmly, then at Serena standing behind him. Serena’s height, waist, and shoulder measurements… I let out a light laugh. So they’d mixed up my measurements with Serena’s, which was why the dress in my hands didn’t fit. “I wasn’t following you. The dress you ordered arrived, but it’s not my size. I came to return it.” I held up the garment bag in Ethan’s view and waved it. “I have other things to do, so I’ll be going. I won’t disturb you two.” I turned to leave. Various complex expressions crossed Ethan’s face, his deep eyes glaring at me angrily. “Aurora, don’t go too far! Serena and I have nothing going on. Don’t project your filthy thoughts onto us!” I smiled indifferently. “I’m not thinking anything. You don’t need to be angry.” With that, I turned and left decisively. I felt like I’d made progress—seeing Ethan and Serena’s intimate interactions, my heart didn’t hurt as much. That evening when Ethan came home, after showering, he surprisingly walked into my room. He carried the familiar scent of my body wash. Ethan climbed into bed and embraced me from behind. His body heat transferred through my pajamas to my back, making me tremble slightly. “Aurora, about the past few days—don’t misunderstand… Serena and I really have nothing going on. She’s exceptionally capable at work. I’m just nurturing a talented employee. I’ve been cold to you lately. We haven’t… Aurora, I’ve missed you.” Ethan’s voice was low, his tone carrying a hint of seductive allure. His hand caressed me. To say I no longer loved Ethan would be a lie. In my long, gray youth marked by hearing loss, he was the only bright spot. He gave me endless warmth and love. The ten years with him were invaluable to my heart. My nose stung, and the long-missed intimacy made the grievances in my heart surge forth. I nestled into his embrace as we tangled together. His kisses fell densely, taking away the tears seeping from my eyes. Just as Ethan reached to remove my hearing aid and move further, his phone rang at the worst possible moment. I had a bad feeling. He picked up the call, exchanged a few brief words, then abruptly pushed me away and sat up anxiously. “Aurora, Serena seems to have a fever. She’s feeling really unwell. I’m going to check on her!” Ethan hurriedly put on his shoes and rushed out without giving me another glance. I heard the sound of the door opening and closing, then everything returned to silence. I sat desolately on the bed, feeling Ethan’s lingering scent in the air slowly fade away. My phone chimed. Serena had sent a message. [Aurora, I’m not feeling well. I asked Ethan to come check on me. Don’t be mad, okay!] I stared at my phone expressionlessly and smiled silently. Serena—she’d won. Ethan didn’t return until the next morning.

He apologized to me, but I just nodded calmly, not taking it to heart. I packed up all my belongings and booked a flight for the next day to the city where Maya lived. Then I went to the company to complete the final parts of my project and submitted my resignation letter. I took a cab to the cemetery and sat quietly at my grandmother’s grave for the entire afternoon. About to leave this city, my heart was surprisingly calm without a trace of reluctance. Perhaps I’d been hurt enough that my heart had gone numb. I leaned against the tombstone, chatting with my grandmother on and off, watching the clouds roll by in the sky. Only when the sky had completely darkened did I finally head home. When I opened the door, the house was unexpectedly lively. Balloons decorated everywhere, flowers and gifts scattered about, with “Happy Birthday” hanging on the wall. I couldn’t help feeling confused. “Aurora, you’re back! Today’s my birthday. Ethan said the house is big and perfect for hosting my birthday party!” Serena appeared with a beaming smile, smiling at me while her eyes fell on the dining table. I followed her gaze. The table was already laden with delicacies. “Ethan said he wanted to show off his cooking skills for me. Those are all dishes he made. Ethan is not only handsome but can cook amazingly too. Aurora, I really envy you!” Though Serena spoke of envy, her words were full of smugness about how Ethan had been busy for her sake. I forced a smile. Ethan rarely cooked, but for Serena he could go to such lengths. Whatever. It had nothing to do with me. I glanced at Serena indifferently, uninterested in her provocation, and turned to enter my room. But my gaze fell on a corner of the room, and my movements froze. Noticing my reaction, Serena laughed unabashedly in my ear. “Oh, that? I accidentally knocked it off while decorating the room. Ethan said it’s fine—he’ll clean it up and throw it away later. Aurora, I’m so clumsy. Don’t mind it, okay!” On the floor was my grandmother’s carefully framed portrait, now shattered into pieces. On my grandmother’s smiling face in the photo, there were still faintly visible black footprints! Hearing the complete indifference in her words, fury ignited in me. I couldn’t hold back anymore and turned to slap Serena hard across the face. My mind went blank, completely controlled by rage. An imperceptible smile appeared at the corner of Serena’s mouth before she began shouting loudly. “Aurora, what are you doing! Stop it!” Ethan rushed out from the kitchen and angrily slapped me across the face, roughly pushing me away before helping Serena up. My eyes reddened as I looked at the two of them. “It’s just a photo—don’t make such a big deal out of it! You’ve hurt Serena! You’re deaf, so you can’t stand seeing healthy people? What kind of person are you!” Ethan roared at me furiously, supporting Serena whose cheek was severely swollen, and walked out of the house. My nose stung and my heart seized sharply. So in his eyes, I was a deaf person who couldn’t stand others being healthy… With trembling hands, I carefully picked up my grandmother’s portrait, wiped the dirt from it with my sleeve, and placed it in my suitcase. Ethan didn’t come home all night. I didn’t sleep all night either. Before leaving, I took one last look at the house, placed the divorce papers on the table, and resolutely walked out with my luggage.

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“I was injured in combat and lost my ability to have children. Whose baby is in your belly?” At the party, my military officer husband Marcus stood before everyone and slammed a disability report in my face. I smiled and glanced at the woman standing behind him. Everything became clear. To marry his dead comrade’s wife, he was willing to falsely accuse me. “Marcus, remember what you said today. This child has absolutely nothing to do with you.” I tore up that report in front of everyone and left the banquet. Seven years later, Marcus came looking for me, wanting to take away my genius son. My son said coldly: “You lost your fertility a long time ago. How could you possibly father someone as amazing as me?” The meeting room was so quiet you could hear the sycamore leaves falling outside the window. The few old subordinates who came with Marcus all lowered their heads, pretending to review the documents in their hands. Marcus slammed the contract on the table, then suddenly reached out and grabbed Andy’s thin wrist, dragging him toward the door without a word. Just then, a calloused hand gripped Marcus’s wrist in a vise-like hold. I used all my strength, my nails digging deep into the skin of his wrist. Marcus looked up and met my eyes. The subordinates behind him also raised their heads. Time seemed to freeze. I saw something crack in Marcus’s eyes, followed by shock, then a look of almost absurd scrutiny. “Laura…Parker?” The people behind him gasped. “Laura Parker? The Colonel’s wife who cheated seven years ago?” “Didn’t she disappear at the train station? How could she…?” I knew what shocked them. When I left this place seven years ago, all I had was a train ticket. Later, news spread that a pregnant young woman had disappeared at the train station. Everyone thought it was me. Including Marcus. “Laura? You’re alive? How dare you show your face here?” I ignored him. Taking advantage of his momentarily loosened grip, I pulled Andy back to my side. There was already a red ring around Andy’s wrist. I crouched down and gently rubbed the glaring red mark. “Does it hurt?” Andy shook his head, but his eyes remained fixed on Marcus. Only then did I straighten up. My tone must have been calm—at least I couldn’t hear any emotion in it. “You must have mistaken me for someone else. I’m Victoria Reed, Chief Technical Engineer of Deep Blue Marine Salvage Company.” “Victoria Reed?” The soldier behind Marcus unconsciously repeated the name. “Yes.” Before I could finish, the meeting room door was pushed open again. When Vivian rushed in, her forehead was beaded with sweat, as if she’d hurried over. She first glanced at Marcus, then her gaze swept over me, her pupils contracting ever so slightly. “Laura?” She stepped forward, trying to take my hand, but I sidestepped to avoid her. Her hand froze in mid-air, then she quickly smiled again. “It really is you! Where have you been all these years? We were all so worried…” Her eyes reddened as she spoke, her acting skills more refined than seven years ago. “You left so suddenly back then. We thought…thought you couldn’t handle it anymore. When we heard about the train station incident, Marcus was so upset he couldn’t sleep for days. It’s good that you’re back now. No matter what, it’s good that you’re alive…” Her words were clever, each one reminding everyone present. That I was once a despicable woman, a wife who embarrassed her husband, a burden who worried everyone. The disgust in Marcus’s eyes deepened. “Laura, I don’t care what you call yourself now. Take that child and leave.” I glanced at Marcus and Vivian standing close together, then looked at the secretary who’d been standing by the door, not daring to make a sound. “Make an announcement.” My voice wasn’t loud, but everyone in the meeting room could hear clearly. “Deep Blue Company is willing to cooperate with the military, but there’s one condition—the cooperation representative must be changed. When you change representatives, we’ll start negotiations.” “Laura!” Marcus’s face turned ashen. He took a menacing step forward, his presence intimidating. “Do you know what kind of situation this is? How dare you make a scene here?! Take this bast—” “The ones who should leave are you.” I calmly cut off his crude insult, took Andy’s hand, and walked back to my desk step by step. The leather chair was wide and solid. I sat down calmly and met his furious gaze. “Since you’re seeking technical cooperation, the military should at least send someone…” I tilted my head slightly. “Someone clear-headed who understands basic courtesy. Don’t you agree, Colonel?” My assistant was so scared she barely dared to breathe, looking from Marcus to me, completely at a loss. “Show them out.” I said. Andy stayed in the office waiting for me until after work. I took his hand and walked out of the office. As we reached the first-floor lobby, two figures emerged from the shadows on the side. Marcus stood there, his military jacket draped over his arm. Vivian followed behind him. They blocked the path between the glass doors and us. Behind them, the sky was gradually darkening and streetlights were beginning to flicker on. “Laura, you have two choices. Either let that child come with me for a blood comparison. Until the results come out, neither of you is going anywhere.” “Or, I don’t mind making you, your man, and this bastard truly disappear this time.”

Marcus’s last words were like a knife mixed with coarse sand, scraping viciously across the tenderest part of my heart. Vivian stood slightly behind him to the side, her fingers unconsciously twisting the strap of her purse. Her voice came out soft and gentle, like a feather, yet carrying a chill that could drill into your bones. “Laura, even if you won’t think of yourself, you should consider the child.” She moved forward half a step, her gaze sweeping “pityingly” over Andy, whom I was protecting behind me. “This town isn’t that big or that small. Later when the child goes to school, gets a job—everything requires background checks. If his file notes that his mother has…issues.” She deliberately paused, observing my expression, her voice dropping lower but ensuring all three of us could hear clearly. “Then the child’s whole life will be ruined. He won’t be able to hold his head up anywhere.” “Even though…” Her eyelids lowered slightly, revealing just the right amount of difficulty and “kindness.” “Even though back then, the injury…the doctor said there might be a slim chance, but after all these years, who can say for sure? Laura, I know raising a child alone isn’t easy, but no matter how hard it is, you can’t gamble with the child’s future out of spite. For the child’s sake, you should just…” A crisp, resounding slap suddenly cut off her unfinished “advice.” I used all my strength. My palm stung and went numb. Vivian was struck so hard her whole body tilted to one side. Her carefully styled hair came loose, a few strands falling messily. They clung to her cheek, which instantly swelled and reddened. She covered her face, staring at me in disbelief. Tears quickly filled her eyes, ready to fall but not quite falling, suspended on her long lashes, making her look even more pitiable. The next second, a heavier force came whistling back at my face. My vision went dark, my ears rang, and my mouth instantly filled with the metallic taste of blood. My cheek burned with pain. The force made me stagger backward. My back slammed heavily into the cold, rough wall before I could barely steady myself. Bits of plaster fell onto my shoulders. Marcus stood in front of Vivian like an impenetrable wall. He shook out his hand as if he’d just touched something unclean. The look he gave me was one of undisguised disgust and cold disappointment. “Laura!” His voice was very low, but each word hit the ground with force. “You dare hit someone after what you did? What did Vivian say that was wrong? Who is she doing this for?!” Again. No matter when, no matter where, no matter what the truth was, he was always like this, unhesitatingly standing on Vivian’s side. Seven years ago at the conference, on the hospital steps, and now still the same. Even though Vivian nearly killed me and my unborn child, in his eyes, she would always be that sister who needed protection, fragile and innocent. And I would forever be the one with deep schemes, beyond reason. “Mom!” Andy charged out from beside me like an enraged little leopard, his small fists clenched, ready to strike Marcus. “Bad man! You hit my mom!” “Andy! Come back!” I ignored the burning pain on my face and pulled him tightly back into my arms, shielding him completely with my body. The child’s body trembled with anger in my embrace. I could feel his rapid breathing and the tears he was holding back. I couldn’t let him strike. Absolutely not. He was so young. He couldn’t be drawn into the adults’ filthy struggle. I looked up, past Marcus’s shoulder as he protected Vivian, at that face that was once familiar but now utterly strange. The dim corridor light carved cold, hard lines across his face. “Colonel Marcus.” I spoke, my voice somewhat hoarse. “Whether you were actually injured back then, how severe the injury was—you know better than anyone. Why pretend to be confused and insist on forcing this dirty accusation onto me and my child?” His eyes flickered violently, his jaw tightening further, but he didn’t immediately refute. I slowly straightened up and released Andy, taking his hand. The child’s hand was small and cold. I squeezed it hard, trying to transmit some warmth to him. “Don’t you want a blood comparison?” I met his scrutinizing gaze, my tone so calm even I found it strange. “Fine. Tomorrow morning at nine, at the hospital lab entrance. Don’t be late.” After speaking, without looking at his suddenly complicated expression, I picked up Andy. Step by step, I walked out of that suffocating, dim corridor. I pushed open the heavy door. The bitter cold of the winter night hit my face. Like a sobering slap, it dispersed the lingering burning sensation on my face and the metallic churning in my chest. I carried Andy toward the half-old green jeep parked by the courtyard wall. After settling him in the back seat and wrapping him in the small blanket we kept in the car, I sat in the driver’s seat. I didn’t start the car immediately. I fumbled for my phone from the canvas bag in the passenger seat. “It’s me.” “If what I asked for is ready, send it to me the fastest way possible.”

Five days later, the auditorium. Voices buzzed. The air was filled with the mixed scent of tea and cigarettes. I sat in a seat by the aisle. Andy sat quietly beside me, flipping through a book about ships. Just then, Marcus sat down next to me with Vivian. He lowered his voice. “Laura, the test results are out. If you don’t want this report to get out, cooperate with me on the salvage mission.” “And apologize to Vivian. Otherwise, you wouldn’t want your child to have a shameful mother, would you?” I closed the album in my hands, my tone casual. “I’ll certainly cooperate on the salvage mission, but not with you.” “As for apologizing…my way of apologizing is another slap. I wonder if she can handle it?” Marcus looked at me with a dark gaze. “So you don’t care about your son’s future?” I blinked, a thought occurring to me, and changed tactics. “I can agree to your conditions. After the meeting ends, burn the report. My child and I will have nothing to do with you, Marcus, from now on.” Marcus’s gaze was mocking. He gave a cold laugh. “Ha, now you realize this report can’t see the light of day?” “As long as you do these two things, I’ll naturally destroy it.” Halfway through the meeting, the moderator announced. “Now, let’s have Colonel Marcus speak!” Amid applause, Marcus walked steadily to the podium. He adjusted the microphone, his gaze sweeping across the audience before finally settling on me. “Today should be a happy occasion, but I must speak of something painful here.” His voice carried through the amplifier throughout the entire auditorium. The previously noisy venue immediately quieted down. My heart sank. Marcus took out a tan file folder from his briefcase and held it up high. “This is a paternity test between me and the child my ex-wife was carrying seven years ago.” “As a soldier, I shouldn’t discuss private matters on such an occasion. But when personal issues affect the military’s image and the integrity of technical cooperation, I must stand up and clarify!” “Today, I’m going to prove my innocence in front of everyone here.” He made as if to open the folder. Just then, the projector at the back of the auditorium suddenly lit up…

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Four years after breaking up with my ex-girlfriend Vanessa Clarke, we ran into each other at a class reunion. Someone suggested we play Truth or Dare. Vanessa drew Truth. Someone asked her: “In your relationships, what’s the smartest thing you ever did?” She glanced at me, a smirk curling at the corner of her mouth: “Making my ex pay off my $700,000 in loans, then dumping him after I found a richer boyfriend.” Everyone expected me to storm out in anger, but I just smiled and gestured for the game to continue. When my turn came, the question became: “In your last relationship, was there anything you kept from your partner?” “Yes.” I answered. “What was it?” my classmate pressed. I smiled and said: “I’m actually the son of the richest man in the country.” After a moment of stunned silence, my classmates burst into laughter. “Liam Foster, have you been watching too many CEO short dramas while delivering food? Got yourself some delusions?” “Take my advice—stop trying to act rich. You haven’t even taken off your delivery uniform!” I glanced down at my Armani casual wear and the custom AGV helmet sitting beside me. I did kind of look like a delivery guy. Before I could respond, Vanessa’s mocking voice cut through first. “Liam Foster, we broke up four years ago. Why are you still so pretentious?” “This reunion is about reconnecting as friends. There’s no need to show off wealth. Just be honest.” I leaned back calmly in my chair, looking at her with cool indifference: “I’m telling the truth. I really am the richest man’s son.” “Without my connections, do you think you could’ve booked the VIP suite at this hotel?” Actually, I hadn’t planned to come to this reunion at all. I didn’t want to see Vanessa, and I wasn’t in the same social circle as these classmates anymore. No point forcing it. But a close friend called me twenty-eight times begging me to come, saying Vanessa wouldn’t be there. He also said everyone agreed not to talk about their situations, just to reconnect. But not only did Vanessa show up, she was flaunting herself shamelessly. A gold digger pretending to be high society. How ridiculous. Yet this fake socialite wouldn’t let me off, continuing to press: “Liam Foster, there’s a limit to bragging. My husband booked this suite with his VIP status. What does it have to do with you?” “With that delivery outfit, if you weren’t riding on our coattails, would you even qualify to eat at such a high-end place?” Vanessa’s words sparked laughter around the table, and everyone looked at me with scorn. But I just waved dismissively and sneered: “So you’re saying I should be grateful to you?” Vanessa pursed her lips and pointed at the food and wine on the table: “Isn’t that obvious?” “Without me, could you afford this expensive food? Could you drink this premium wine?” I slowly raised my head, a slight curve forming at my lips: “Vanessa Clarke, you really haven’t seen much of the world.” “This food? At my house, even the housekeeper wouldn’t eat it. I certainly wouldn’t.” My words immediately triggered another round of mockery. “Liam Foster, please stop showing off. You’re just a nobody—without Vanessa, you couldn’t even get through the front door!” “Exactly! If Vanessa hadn’t specifically requested you be invited, I wouldn’t have bothered calling you!” “Just apologize to Vanessa and you can at least drink some of this good wine.” The mocking voices rose and fell, but I didn’t take them to heart at all. Because everything I said was true. If I weren’t trying to save these old classmates some face, I would’ve already told them that Pine Mountain Banquet was my property. Seeing my silence, Vanessa walked up to me with a wine glass: “Want to know why I dumped you? Men without power should stop trying to show off.” “Drink this wine, and I’ll pretend what just happened never occurred!” Looking at Vanessa before me, I slowly stood and met her eyes: “Vanessa Clarke, I gave you some courtesy, but you actually think I’m still that lovesick poor kid from four years ago?” Then I shouted toward the door: “Waiter, bring the wine list.” “I’m paying for everyone’s meal tonight!”

The moment I finished speaking, a man in a suit walked into the suite and stood respectfully before me. It was Lucas Miller, the manager of Pine Mountain Banquet. I’d met him once when arranging the suite. I kept my eyes on Vanessa while speaking: “Bring me your hidden menu and make everything on it.” “And two bottles of your best wine.” Lucas nodded silently and left the suite. Everyone froze, including Vanessa, whose eyes went wide. The next second, she suddenly laughed: “And you say you’re not showing off.” “My husband and I have been to Pine Mountain Banquet at least ten times. There’s no hidden menu! Could you at least rehearse before lying?” After she spoke, everyone in the suite turned their eyes toward me. I could tell—they were all waiting to see me humiliated. After all, in their eyes, I was still the poor kid Vanessa had heartlessly dumped. Back then, to marry her, I’d fallen out with my father. Penniless, I had to deliver food. Who knew that after I paid off her $700,000 in online loans, she’d climbed into the bed of rich kid Sebastian Ashford. Heartbroken, I went home to inherit the family business, vowing never to see Vanessa Clarke again. Who would’ve thought that at this reunion, not only would I see this disgusting gold digger again— She’d publicly humiliate me, using the fact that I paid off her loans to grind my dignity under everyone’s feet. I couldn’t swallow this insult! “Just because you haven’t eaten it or seen it doesn’t mean you’re important enough.” “I suggest you say less and save yourself the embarrassment when the food arrives.” “Liam Foster, you…!” Before Vanessa could finish, the suite door opened again. Dozens of exquisite dishes were brought to the table under everyone’s shocked gazes. Lucas held up two bottles of limited edition Hennessy and announced to everyone: “Our boss says everyone here is an honored guest!” “Tonight’s meal is on the house!” I nodded to myself. The owner of Pine Mountain Banquet was indeed smart. Using one meal to curry favor with me—definitely a good deal. “Thank our boss for his kindness. Tell him…” I was about to be polite when Vanessa waved her hand and cut me off: “Liam Foster, is it your place to speak?” “The boss is obviously doing this out of respect for my Sebastian. What are you pretending for, thanking people on our behalf!” With that, she pushed me aside and walked up to Lucas. “I thank Mr. Chase on my husband’s behalf for his generosity. I’ll drink this toast first.” “When my husband finishes his work in a few days, we’ll definitely visit Mr. Chase together.” As Vanessa drained her glass, Lucas’s expression grew increasingly puzzled. He opened his mouth to say something, but I stopped him with a look. I grabbed my jacket from the back of my chair and turned to everyone: “I have things to do, so I’m leaving. Enjoy your meal.” “Oh, and next time you have a reunion at this level, please don’t invite me.” I really couldn’t stay any longer. Vanessa’s behavior was making me sick. But I was too lazy to expose her. I’d consider this meal my final gift to her. But as I walked past her, she suddenly grabbed me: “Liam Foster, aren’t you forgetting something?” “What?” “Pay for your own meal.”

I scratched my ear, wondering if I’d heard wrong. “Vanessa Clarke, is your brain broken?” “They just said tonight’s meal is free. What am I paying for?” Vanessa let out a cold laugh, her eyes full of disdain. “It’s free because my husband has connections. What does it have to do with you?” “Since I’m treating everyone, I decide who I’m treating.” She walked to the door and ripped down the itemized bill: “This meal costs $800,000 total. We have twenty classmates, so $40,000 each.” “I’m paying for everyone except you.” “Forty thousand dollars. Are you paying cash or card?” Lucas quickly stepped forward and said: “Miss, tonight’s bill…” I pulled Lucas behind me and leaned close to Vanessa: “So you’re determined to make things difficult for me today?” Vanessa nodded firmly: “That’s right!” “I was going to let you enjoy an upper-class meal for old times’ sake, but you just had to push it.” “In that case, I’ll teach you a lesson today and show you exactly what you are!” Hearing this, I didn’t get angry. Instead, I laughed: “Sorry, but unlike you, I know exactly what level I’m at. You’re the one who doesn’t know where you stand!” As soon as I finished speaking, everyone at the table couldn’t help commenting: “Liam Foster, I think you’re addicted to pretending. Looking down on Vanessa? If you were so rich, would she have dumped a loser like you?” “Exactly! Vanessa’s husband is worth hundreds of millions. Could all your assets combined even match the numbers after his decimal point?” “No kidding. This guy’s just a delusional clown. If he pays, nobody lend him money!” I licked my lips and scanned the room: “Everyone’s words are quite entertaining, but I don’t just look down on Vanessa Clarke—I look down on all of you.” “Because everyone here is trash.” Though I’m not usually social, I at least understand basic courtesy. From the moment I sat down until now, these so-called classmates hadn’t discussed friendship once. They’d just been flattering and sucking up to Vanessa. With such lowly classmates, why should I save them any face? My words instantly made me the target of everyone’s attacks. Even the classmate who had the best relationship with me stood up angrily, slamming the table: “Liam Foster, someone like you doesn’t deserve to eat with us. Pay your bill and get out!” Seeing the mockery growing louder, Vanessa’s smile became more pronounced. She picked up a bottle of limited edition Hennessy and poured ten full glasses. “Liam Foster, I know it’s hard for a food delivery guy to come up with forty thousand dollars at once.” “For the sake of you helping me before, I’ll help you this time.” She put her high heel on a chair and pointed at the ten glasses. “You have two choices.” “One, kneel and lick my foot while admitting you’re worthless.” “Two, chug all ten glasses in one go, then slap yourself ten times.” “Choose one and do it, and I’ll pay your forty thousand. Fair enough?” Whistles and applause filled the suite. Everyone wanted to see me humiliated, to see me submit to Vanessa like a dog, just like four years ago. I’d wanted to leave us both some dignity, but Vanessa and these classmates kept pushing. A gold digger living off men, pretending to be high society. How ridiculous. Yet this fake socialite wouldn’t let me go, continuing to press: “Ten minutes.” “What ten minutes?” I ignored Vanessa and looked at Lucas. Lucas checked his phone and bowed to me. “Mr. Foster, I’ve already notified the owner. He says he’ll arrive in ten minutes with Sebastian Ashford to apologize to you.” “Oh, and he said he’s willing to trade that hundred-acre plot in the suburbs for Vanessa Clarke’s life.”

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Mom was critically ill. Before she died, she wanted to see me get married. I begged my girlfriend Vivienne for 27 days before she finally agreed to marry me. I waited at City Hall until dark, but she never showed up. That same day, Vivienne’s childhood friend Sebastian posted their marriage certificate on social media: “Time flies—just three more days until we’ve been married for a whole month.” That’s when I found out she had already married Sebastian. Right then, I received an apology text from Vivienne. “Logan, Sebastian’s family was forcing him to get married. I couldn’t just stand by and watch him marry some random person and throw his life away. Three more days and we’ll be divorced. After that, I’ll marry you.” Three days later, when Vivienne showed up at City Hall in her wedding dress, all she received was my message. “Vivienne, we’re done. Forever.” In the morgue, I stared at Mom’s face as tears streamed down my cheeks. Mom had raised me alone. She never asked me for anything. But I couldn’t even fulfill her final wish. When I learned Mom was seriously ill, I begged Vivienne—my girlfriend of six years—to get our marriage license. I wanted Mom to know that after she was gone, I wouldn’t be alone. I begged her for twenty-seven days. But Vivienne kept making excuses. Day one: Sebastian’s car broke down, so she rushed over to pick him up. Day two: She was helping Sebastian move and didn’t have time. … Day twenty-six: Sebastian’s stomach condition flared up, so she rushed over to take care of him. If Sebastian hadn’t posted that marriage certificate today, I’d still be completely in the dark. I had come up with ten thousand reasons to explain Vivienne’s behavior—but never once did I imagine she was already married. I knelt by Mom’s bedside until evening, when Vivienne called. On the phone, her voice was as gentle as always: “It’s so late. Why aren’t you home yet? Where are you? I’ll come pick you up.” I opened my mouth but couldn’t speak. In the past, I would have pretended to be upset so she’d coax me, then happily waited for her to come get me. But now, I could no longer say a single gentle word to her. Vivienne’s voice carried a trace of anxiety: “Logan, where are you right now?” “The hospital.” Vivienne froze, as if only now remembering I’d been taking care of Mom all this time. “I… wait for me. I’m coming to the hospital to be with you.” After she hung up, I suppressed my grief, stood up, and began handling Mom’s funeral arrangements. But ten minutes later, she sent me another message: [Logan, I have to accompany Sebastian to deal with his parents. I’ll definitely visit your mom next time!] I wasn’t surprised at all. Because over the past two years, the phrase I’d heard most from her was: [Next time for sure.] Missed our anniversary? I’ll make it up next time. Skipped meeting Mom with me? I’ll come next time. Put off getting our license? I’ll definitely be free tomorrow. She knew I’d forgive her, so she hurt me without restraint. But this time, there would be no next time. Because Mom would never have another chance. And I would never forgive her again.

That night, I didn’t go home. I stayed at the hospital all night. Vivienne Hart sent messages all night long and made countless calls. I didn’t read them. I didn’t answer. The next day, I arrived at the company early to prepare my resignation paperwork. Vivienne was the company’s founder. I was just an ordinary designer. From the days when she had nothing, I’d been by her side building the business with her. Now, my position in the company had become negligible. Even if I disappeared, Vivienne wouldn’t notice at all. Just as I was printing my resignation letter, Vivienne suddenly appeared behind me. Under her gaze, I calmly picked up the resignation letter. She looked at me, her tone gentle: “Done printing?” “Yeah.” Vivienne looked at me, seemingly oblivious to my coldness. She cleared her throat: “Logan, come with me for a moment.” The instant Vivienne called me away, my colleagues immediately started gossiping. “Did you guys know? Ms. Hart is already married.” “Really? No wonder Logan and Ms. Hart kept their relationship secret and were so hush-hush about it. Turns out he’s the other man.” “Logan always said he hated homewreckers. Talk about being a hypocrite.” My father abandoned Mom and me for another woman, making us suffer for half our lives. But now, thanks to Vivienne, I was being called a homewrecker myself. In the office, Vivienne tried to hug me. I stepped back: “Ms. Hart, this is the office.” Vivienne frowned. “Stop being angry. I’ll go see your mom with you tonight, okay?” I shook my head. “There’s no need anymore.” My mom was already dead, and I didn’t want you to see her anyway. If she knew I was being called a homewrecker because of Vivienne, she’d definitely be angry with me. Vivienne seemed to sense something was off. After a moment of silence, she spoke: “Two more days and I can divorce Sebastian. Then we can get our license.” She handed me a gift box. “This is ginseng I prepared for your mom, specially for restoring her health.” I stared at the ginseng, somewhat dazed. Her gesture came too late. My mom didn’t need it anymore. Seeing my silence, a flash of anxiety crossed Vivienne’s eyes. She was about to speak when an urgent ringtone interrupted her thoughts. Vivienne took out her phone, glanced at me, hesitated briefly, then left anyway. I knew it was Sebastian calling. After all, he was Vivienne’s legitimate husband now. My heart felt nothing. After all, I didn’t care anymore. Later, I submitted my resignation letter. Facing my sudden resignation request, Vice President Smith seemed prepared. “Logan, I’m sure Ms. Hart will take good care of you.” I bit my lip, finding it absurd. Everyone seemed convinced I was Vivienne’s kept man at the company. She had already prepared everything for me. But no one was willing to believe I was Vivienne’s actual boyfriend, and that now, heartbroken, I was leaving. As I was leaving the company, I ran into Vivienne and Sebastian at the elevator. Seeing me, Vivienne’s eyes flickered, and she instinctively tried to explain: “Don’t misunderstand. I brought Sebastian here to…” Before she could finish, Sebastian draped his arm over her shoulder: “Tour my wife’s company.” I said nothing. Then Sebastian spoke again: “Logan, you don’t mind, do you?” Sebastian looked at me provocatively. I silently stepped out of the elevator, making way for them. Vivienne looked at me, hesitation in her eyes. She wanted to say something, but in the end, Sebastian pulled her away. That afternoon, at the crematorium, I watched Mom turn to ashes. I placed her in the cemetery. Until nightfall. Vivienne didn’t appear. Not a single message. I didn’t care. Without her interference, Mom could rest more peacefully. I think Mom’s spirit wouldn’t want me entangled with her anymore either. And she definitely wouldn’t want to see me get a marriage license with her. Our six-year relationship should finally end completely.

Leaving the cemetery, I walked all the way home. I hadn’t walked at night in a long time. Before, I held Mom’s hand. Later, Vivienne held my arm. From now on, I’d walk alone. I think I’ll get used to it. It was past midnight when I finally got home. The living room light was on. Vivienne was leaning on the sofa, texting. Seeing me enter, her furrowed brow relaxed. She immediately rushed over to grab my hand: “Where did you go? You didn’t answer calls or reply to messages. I was about to call the police, you know?!” I froze, then pulled my hand from Vivienne’s grasp. “I was with Mom. I didn’t want her disturbed.” Hearing me mention Mom, Vivienne remembered what she’d said earlier that day. Her face showed some guilt. She suddenly looked at me expectantly and solemnly pulled out a box. I instinctively took it and opened it. Inside was a pair of wedding rings. I suddenly froze. Once, Vivienne had earnestly held my hand and promised we’d wear wedding rings together, hold our marriage certificate, and let Mom witness our happiness. I waited countless days, hoped countless times. But that was before. I closed the box and handed it back. Vivienne frowned slightly, as if thinking of something. She said somewhat awkwardly: “It’s already past midnight. One more day and I can divorce Sebastian.” “Don’t worry, I’ve always remembered my promise.” “Tomorrow, we’ll put the rings on each other, then go get our license.” Her sweet words didn’t move me. I just said: “Okay, got it. I’m tired. I’m going to rest.” The smile on Vivienne’s face froze. For the first time, she noticed my dismissiveness. Panic flashed in her eyes as she tried to grab my hand. Just then, Sebastian walked out of the bedroom wearing my pajamas. He looked at me with sleepy eyes, then immediately stepped forward, draping his arm over Vivienne’s shoulder and whining: “Vivienne, Logan’s back now. Let’s wash up and go to bed.” Vivienne quickly looked at me to explain: “Sebastian had a fight with his family. I let him stay in the guest room for the night.” After speaking, Vivienne stared at me intently, as if afraid I’d misunderstand. I nodded indifferently: “It’s fine. I can stay at Mom’s place for the night.” Vivienne stood frozen, seemingly not expecting me to agree so readily. But Sebastian didn’t give me a chance to change my mind. He smugly turned and rushed back to the room. When I pulled my suitcase toward the door, Vivienne still stood in the living room. She pressed her lips together, gripping my hand tightly and refusing to let go. The guilt in her eyes grew deeper and deeper. Finally, prompted by Sebastian’s urging, she spoke: “Tomorrow, after we get our license, let’s go see your mom together.”

At dawn, I packed everything and returned to the company for final handover. The moment I stepped into the office, colleagues looked at me strangely. After I walked away, they whispered and pointed behind my back. It wasn’t until I found Sebastian sitting at my desk that I understood the source of this strange atmosphere. Everyone stared at their computer screens, but their eyes kept glancing toward this dramatic scene. Seeing me arrive, Sebastian looked at me arrogantly: “I’m starting work today. I want to sit here. Go somewhere else.” I looked at him and nodded calmly. “Fine. Let me pack my things.” Our exchange was calm, but seeing my attitude, my colleagues all thought I felt guilty facing Sebastian, the legitimate spouse. But with both Sebastian and me present, no one dared say much. They just typed on their computers, expressing their disdain for me. I wanted to clear things up but didn’t know how to begin. After all, Sebastian really was Vivienne’s legally married husband. No matter how much I protested, I’d only humiliate myself. As I finished packing and prepared to leave, Vivienne walked over. Seeing me with my belongings, her expression tightened. “Where are you going?” “I’m…” Sebastian cut in: “Making room for me. I like sitting here.” Seeing I was leaving, Vivienne quickly grabbed my arm. “No. This is your seat. No one can…” Before she could finish, I interrupted: “If he likes it, let him have it.” After all, I’d already resigned. Whoever wanted to sit there had nothing to do with me. But Vivienne froze in place, her expression unreadable. Only after my figure with the box disappeared did she snap back to reality. In front of everyone, Vivienne shoved aside Sebastian, who was humming while organizing the desk, then slapped him across the face: “Did our fake marriage give you the wrong idea and make you forget your place?!” “Did you forget I warned you not to provoke Logan?” After leaving the company, I received a text from Vivienne. [Tomorrow at City Hall. I’ll wait for you.] [The specialist I hired for your mom will arrive tomorrow.] I smiled, feeling somewhat bitter. Vivienne, goodbye. I took all my luggage and headed to the airport. The next day, Vivienne stood at the entrance of City Hall, holding her freshly issued divorce certificate.

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On New Year’s Eve, my husband Vincent was still on a business trip in Europe. I decided to fly out and surprise him. When I went to book the ticket, only first class was available. I looked at the $10,000 price tag and used a year’s worth of savings to buy it. After I sat down, I could not figure out how to adjust my seat. The young woman next to me let out a scornful laugh. “Never flown first class before?” I smiled awkwardly. “No, I haven’t.” “My boss always books me first class,” she said. “Sometimes he even arranges a private jet for me.” I was taken aback. “Your boss must be very generous.” “Actually,” she said smugly, “he’s not just my boss. He’s my lover. Look, this is the ring he gave me” Looking at the diamond ring on her hand that was identical to my missing wedding ring, I froze. Wait. Wasn’t Vincent just a regular employee? When did he become a CEO? I stared at her ring finger. “But that ring…it’s a wedding band. Are you two engaged? Or married?” “This?” Lucia glanced at the diamond. “I had him take it off his wife.” I was stunned. “I wasn’t going to trouble the wife at first. But on my birthday, that woman had a miscarriage and made him rush to the hospital. I spent my birthday alone.” My hand moved to my lower abdomen. I suddenly remembered that brutal winter The road home from the market was a sheet of black ice. Vincent’s salary was pitiful-we couldn’t even afford an electric scooter. I slipped and fell hard. Our three-month-old baby became nothing but a pool of blood… That day, Vincent dropped everything. He stayed by my side for three days and three nights. But when I finally woke, my wedding ring was gone. Just like our child. Vincent held me close. “It’s okay, we’ll have another child. And the ring-I’ll buy you a new one.” I cried and shook my head. “Didn’t you say the company is doing layoffs? We need to save money. When you’re making big money later, then you can get me a new one.” That day he looked at me with reddened eyes, tears welling up. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry I haven’t earned enough money. I’m sorry I haven’t given you a good life.” I shook my head. Beside me, Lucia was still admiring the diamond ring. I asked, “So you made him take his wife’s ring and give it to you?” “Yes. Actually, he refused at first. Said he’d buy me something more expensive.” Lucia examined the ring from all angles. “But that old woman is so arrogant precisely because she thinks she’s his wife, right? If I didn’t teach her a lesson, wouldn’t she just walk all over me in the future?” I clenched my teeth. “Honestly, this ring isn’t worth as much as the other things he’s bought me.” “But it is a wedding ring, after all.” Lucia smiled at me. “When a woman ends up like that old hag, she’s got no hope left in this life.” I gripped the corner of my clothes, forcing out a smile. “If your sugar daddy is so willing to spend money on you, he must be paying his wife plenty of hush money, right?” Lucia laughed. She leaned in close. “I’ll tell you-that old woman doesn’t even know he’s a CEO yet.”

“Why not?” Lucia admired her diamond-studded manicure. “Because there’s no point. That woman already spent her youth helping him build his career.” “If you were a man who got rich and then looked at your wife who’s already old and faded, would you still spend money on her? Can money bring back her youth?” The glass reflection showed my slightly haggard face. Lucia leaned toward me. “I can see that although you’re older than me, you still have some looks. Since we’re fated to meet, let me give you some advice.” “Women really should invest in medical aesthetics and beauty treatments. I can see your skin is already getting dry-your husband probably isn’t interested in you anymore, is he?” I stared at her without speaking. Her skin was flawless. I used to be like that too. In fact… I was even prettier than her. Ten years in a rental apartment, buffeted by wind and rain-when I look at my old photos now, I barely recognize myself. “Medical aesthetics… that’s expensive.” “So what?” Lucia shrugged. “My sugar daddy gives me $500,000 a month for living expenses, and he reimburses these beauty treatments too.” I looked at the small crystal on Lucia’s winged eyeliner, My hands trembled as I clutched my clothes. “How long have you been his mistress?” “Since June 12th, 2023. Why?” My grip on my clothes tightened. June 12th, 2023. The day my mother died. That day, my mother needed $500,000 for surgery. I remember clearly how Vincent begged everyone he knew and used all his own savings to scrape together $350,000 for me. That was nearly everything he had earned since he started working. In the end, despite my desperate efforts, I could only come up with $80,000. My mother still died. That day he held me tight, tears streaming down his face. “It’s my fault. I’m useless-I couldn’t even earn enough for Mom’s medical bills! You’ve suffered so much with me…” My heart felt like it was being cut by knives. I still wiped away his tears. “You managed to get $350,000 together. I’m grateful.” “Mom said you did your best. She doesn’t blame you, and neither do I… I’m the one who couldn’t come up with the remaining $150,000…” His tears fell onto the back of my hand. He gripped my hand tightly. “Nina, just wait a little longer. Please wait for me… I promise I won’t let us suffer like this anymore…” I nodded through my tears. $500,000… So he could have gotten it after all. “You know what? That woman’s mom also needed exactly $500,000 that month.” Lucia said. I looked at her. She winked her left eye at me. “Actually, he was originally going to give it to her.” My breath caught. “Did he use it for your living expenses instead?” “No, he’s so rich-giving me $500,000 still leaves him with plenty more.” “Then why didn’t he give it to his wife’s mother?” “Because…” Lucia rested her chin on her hand. “I told him that once her mother died, that woman would have no family left. Then even if he got caught keeping me on the side, she wouldn’t dare say anything.” My teeth were about to shatter from how hard I was biting down. “Plus, that month I had my eye on a new Chanel piece that cost exactly $500,000.” I stared at her intently. “Aren’t you afraid his wife will find out what you did?” “Please, I’m way too smart for that.” Lucia laughed. “I gave him the idea to take out $350,000 and pretend it was all his savings. His wife would just think her husband did his best-she’d never check if he had someone on the side!”

As she spoke, her expression shifted. “The only annoying thing is, he did it to keep the old woman from leaving him if I was ever found out.” “Tch. Lucky old hag.” SLAP! A hand struck Lucia’s face without warning. “Are you insane!” Lucia’s drink spilled everywhere. Flight attendants rushed over to help clean up. She was furious. “What’s your problem? Why are you freaking out!” “Mistresses are this brazen now?!” I was seething with rage. The flight attendants quickly pulled us apart. They moved Lucia to an empty seat farther from me and tried to calm her down. Finally, Lucia’s emotions stabilized somewhat. She wiped her hands with the towel the attendant handed her while shooting me a contemptuous glance. “I hate self-righteous people like you the most. Going on and on about mistresses-the truth is…” “Ha! You’re just old now and can’t attract men anymore, right?” “Go back to when you were young, and you probably chased them harder than anyone!” “You!” The attendant quickly stopped me from exploding. I didn’t want to cause them trouble, so I bit my tongue and sat back down. Lucia gave me a disdainful once-over. “Let me tell you the truth-you’re already old. Your husband definitely has someone on the side too.” “Don’t believe me? Go home and check his phone. Because looking like you do, no man would want to come home.” SPLASH! I threw my fresh drink right in her face. Lucia screamed. The attendants frantically positioned themselves between us. The senior purser smiled apologetically. “Ms. Sullivan, she’s one of our VIP guests. Please calm down. How about I bring you some fruit to help you cool off?” “VIP guest?” I clenched my teeth. The purser leaned down and spoke quietly. “She’s linked to Mr. Pierce, a rising star. Best to steer clear for your own good-Pierce is fiercely protective of her.” I smiled bitterly. The plane arrived at the connecting airport. Neither Lucia nor I got off. We could turn off airplane mode now. I texted Vincent. “Where are you?” He sent a photo of his desk. “Making money for my wife.” “For me, or for someone else?” No reply. I sent back a question mark. The next second, a familiar voice came from Lucia’s direction. “What? Someone spilled juice on you? Who dared to treat my Lucia like this?” “Some old hag! Hmph, it’s all your fault! If you were here, she wouldn’t have dared!” “Alright, alright. My fault.” “Deposit received: $500,000” The mechanical notification sounded from Lucia’s phone. Vincent’s voice was gentle. “Go buy yourself some little trinkets you like.” I gripped my clothes tighter. The smile on Lucia’s face vanished instantly as she pouted. “Who told you to say you missed me and wanted to spend New Year’s with me? Otherwise I wouldn’t have taken this flight and run into that crazy woman!” “No amount of money will make me happy now! Hmph!” Vincent didn’t get angry. Instead, his tone became even lighter, as if amused. “Well then, what about the new villa I bought you?” Lucia’s eyes widened slightly. “Lucia’s smiling. Are you happy now?” “I am not!” Lucia pouted again. “But… hmph, I’ll give you one chance, since I love you. Okay, honey, make it up to me properly tonight, okay?” “We’re going to have sex for three hours-not one second less! No, we can do it all night long.”

My hand gripping my clothes under my sleeve trembled even more violently. I thought back to after he was transferred to California-every time we met, we only ever hugged and kissed. Every time I initiated anything beyond that, he would sigh. “I’ve been working so long, I’m a bit tired. Can we wait until I’ve rested up?” But before he could “rest up,” he’d already be gone again. The plane was about to take off again. Lucia kissed the camera and hung up the video call. That’s when Vincent sent me a message. “Why don’t you even trust me now, honey? Are you upset I can’t spend New Year’s with you because of overtime?” “After the holidays, I’ll come home and take you to that rotating hot pot place you love, okay?” The plane took off. A flight attendant came to Lucia’s new seat carrying a black and gold gift box. “Ms. Evans, a gentleman asked us to give this to you.” “Oh my! A Prada necklace! How did he know I’ve had my eye on this one!” The attendant smiled and handed over a card. “Mr. Pierce also has a message for you.” “He hopes Ms. Evans won’t be disturbed by irrelevant noise, that you’ll bravely be yourself and treat all obstacles as nothing.” “Because Mr. Pierce will always stand behind you. He will always love you.” I looked at the message Vincent had sent me and closed my eyes. “Ms. Sullivan, this diamond is from Mr. Pierce for you.” The purser handed me a diamond. I frowned. “For me?” The purser nodded. “Mr. Pierce knows you and Ms. Evans had some unpleasantness. He says Ms. Evans has been a bit irritable lately-the doctor says she shouldn’t get upset.” “So, Ms. Sullivan, please go give Ms. Evans a sincere apology.” I looked at the diamond and laughed, a hollow sound. “An apology? Seems a bit much.” “Don’t trouble yourself over it. Mr. Pierce can make that back several times over in a day.” A six-figure diamond. Several in a day. I turned the stone over in my palm. Suddenly I laughed. So a stranger was worth more than I ever was. I nodded. “Fine. I will apologize.” “Ms. Evans! Mr. Pierce has sent her to apologize!” I gave a shallow bow. “I sincerely apologize for laying hands on you. Please forgive me, Ms. Evans.” “Alright.” Lucia stood up. “Let me slap you twice, and I’ll forgive you.” The purser smiled apologetically. “Ms. Evans, she is older than you after all. Please be magnanimous and don’t stoop to her level.” “So what?” Lucia’s laugh was mocking. “This face is already ruined anyway. Whether I hit her or not, no man will like her.” “I’m doing her a favor slapping her twice. She gets to take a diamond home-she should be thanking me.” An attendant tugged at me. “Ma’am, why don’t you just let her? Let her slap you twice and this will all be over.” “She has Mr. Pierce behind her, after all.” “Right, a six-figure diamond-we’re not really losing out.” Six figures… Right. I’d have to desperately save for ten or eight years to get six figures. This diamond in my hand could buy ten years of my life. I rolled it between my fingers. Then, I flicked it onto Lucia’s tray. It skittered across the surface and dropped to the floor. “I don’t want it.” SLAP! Her hand struck my face without warning. “I’m giving it to you,” Lucia snarled, showing no mercy. “And you refuse?”

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My husband Adrian and I were on an outdoor expedition when tragedy struck: his first love, Bella, died in an accident. That same day, Adrian left behind a suicide note and threw himself off a cliff. Only then did I realize he had never loved me. When I was reborn and returned to my college days, Adrian didn’t hesitate to abandon me and choose Bella. We met again eight years later at a banquet hosted by the wealthiest family in the city. By then, he was a rising CEO in finance. Seeing me drinking alone in a corner, he couldn’t help but frown. “Vanessa. Eight years, and you’re still chasing after me?” I glanced at him and walked straight toward my daughter, who was drinking juice nearby. But he panicked, veins bulging on his forehead. “Have you lost your mind? You married some nobody and had a child… just to spite me? You’re pathetic!” When I spotted that familiar figure in the crowd, I froze. I never imagined that Adrian Hayes and I would meet again at Hudson’s homecoming banquet. There he was, his arm draped possessively around Bella’s shoulders, working the room with practiced charm. The aloof boy I once knew was gone, polished into a stranger. “Mr. Hayes! Congratulations. To become the youngest CEO in the city’s financial sector…your future is boundless.” “Is this your wife? You two look perfect together.” Amid the flattery, Adrian offered a polite smile. “Bella is my fiancée. We’ll be holding our wedding in July, and you’re all invited.” “Absolutely,” everyone chimed in. Just then, one of Adrian’s former classmates spoke up. “Mr. Hayes, you and Bella were the famous golden couple back in college. Why did it take eight years of dating before you decided to get married?” At those words, I set down my wine glass and looked at Adrian. Actually, I wanted to know too. After all, Adrian was crazy about Bella. In my past life, when he learned of Bella’s death, he didn’t hesitate to jump off a cliff and end his own life. When I was reborn back to my college days, Adrian didn’t hesitate to dump me and chase after Bella. Who would have thought they still hadn’t gotten married after all this time? It was really strange. In the crowd, Adrian’s smile faltered for a moment, and a flash of embarrassment crossed his eyes. “Bella is my first love and the woman I love most. So all these years I’ve been working hard to give her the most spectacular wedding in the world.” As he spoke, the affection in Adrian’s eyes seemed ready to overflow. Hearing this, Bella smiled sweetly. “I’m looking forward to it, Adrian.” Watching them, I felt deeply moved. So when Adrian truly loved someone, he actually thought about them this much. It was worlds apart from how he treated me in my past life. In my past life, no matter how much I gave, he refused to marry me. In the end, it was only because I got pregnant by accident and his grandfather put pressure on him that he was forced to marry me. I didn’t want to waste any more time at this boring banquet, so I got up to leave. Just then, out of the corner of my eye, I spotted a little girl with two pigtails hiding under a nearby table, drinking one glass of juice after another. I shook my head helplessly and walked in that direction. Without paying attention, I knocked a wine glass off the table. Crash! The glass shattered into pieces, fragments everywhere. “Who are you?” “Who let you in here?” “Do you have any idea how much that glass cost!” A nearby server blocked my path, looking at me with utter contempt. Everyone’s attention immediately shifted to our direction. Seeing me, Adrian froze in place, shock flashing through his eyes. “Vanessa?” “You actually crashed the Hayes family banquet just to see me?” The people around him looked confused. “Mr. Hayes, from your tone, she’s not a guest invited by the Hayes family?” At this, Adrian frowned slightly, looking a bit uncomfortable. “I’m sorry everyone, I didn’t mean to ruin your evening. She’s my ex.”

Hearing Adrian’s words, everyone’s faces showed knowing smiles. “Mr. Hayes, you’re quite the lucky man! Both your ex and current girlfriend are beautiful!” “Wait, that’s not right. Didn’t Mr. Hayes say Miss Bella was his first love?” “Then what’s this about an ex?” Hearing everyone’s questions, Adrian’s face became somewhat stiff. Bella, nestled in his arms, looked at me with even more disgust and resentment. “Everyone’s got it wrong.” “She’s not really an ex.” “Just someone I used as a distraction when Bella and I were fighting.” After his explanation, Adrian turned to look at the server nearby. “I’ll pay for the glass.” “Have her leave.” The entire time, Adrian didn’t give me a single glance, as if I were something filthy he couldn’t bear to look at. I was speechless. But this was fine. In this life, I didn’t want any connection with him whatsoever. “Alright, hurry up and leave.” The server impatiently pushed me. “Look at yourself. Thinking you could be with a CEO like Mr. Hayes.” As the server spoke, he glanced disdainfully at my somewhat dusty athletic wear. Seeing this, I couldn’t help but frown. “Wait a moment. I need to find someone, then I’ll leave immediately.” Hearing this, the server snapped irritably. “Find someone?” “Do you think I’m an idiot?” “I’ve seen plenty of women like you. Don’t think you can keep prowling for men at this banquet.” With that, the server grabbed my arm and started dragging me toward the door. Just then, Bella suddenly called out. “Wait.” Bella walked over arm-in-arm with Adrian, her face full of smugness. “Vanessa, Adrian never loved you. Stop pestering him.” “Besides, we’re about to have our wedding. What you’re doing is no different from being a homewrecker.” “That’s right.” Adrian frowned, looking at me with complete impatience. “I never loved you. Stop harboring any delusions.” “Let alone eight years-even if you wait eighty years, I’ll never be with you.” “How about this.” Adrian pursed his lips and continued. “I’ll transfer a million dollars to you. From now on, don’t appear in front of me again.” With that, Adrian had Bella pull his phone from her purse. When he opened his messaging app, Adrian froze. “Vanessa? You actually blocked me?” Adrian’s voice suddenly rose, disbelief written all over his face. “What else was I supposed to do?” A flash of helplessness crossed my eyes. We had already cut ties. Why would I keep his contact information? Besides, that big shot at home was famous for being jealous. If he found out I still had my ex’s contact info, he’d throw a complete fit. Hearing my retort, Adrian’s face turned extremely ugly. Seeing this, Bella quickly spoke up. “Vanessa, stop using these low tactics!” “Don’t think my Adrian will soften his heart because of this!” “Stop dreaming!” As she spoke, Bella rubbed her chest against Adrian’s arm and said coquettishly. “Adrian, don’t pay attention to her anymore.” “I bet she knows you’re a CEO now, so she’s latching on!” “This type of woman just loves social climbing!” “Mm.” Adrian nodded, looking at me with a flash of disgust. Bella even looked me up and down several times with her eyes, saying disdainfully. “You graduated from a prestigious university. Instead of using this energy to chase men, why not work on your own career?” “Look at you-you’re more pathetic than a beggar on the street!” Hearing this, I couldn’t help but laugh. Bella really had gotten full of herself, forgetting how terrible her own past was.

Bella’s family had been poor farmers for generations, all living in the mountains. Not only that, she was extremely devoted to her younger brother. After getting together with Adrian, she sold all the gifts he gave her and sent the money to her brother. The first time I met Adrian was when he was hospitalized after getting injured working to buy gifts for Bella’s brother. He had broken his leg back then, and under pressure from the Hayes family, he and Bella broke up. That was the darkest, most difficult period of his life. I was the one who stayed by his side, gradually bringing light back into his world. Adrian loved painting, so I went everywhere buying expensive tickets to art exhibitions at premium prices. I acted as both his driver and caretaker, taking him to see art exhibitions around the world. I bought him the world’s finest paper and paints. Not only that, I took care of all his food, clothing, and living expenses. All he had to do was be happy. Even Adrian’s friends said I was the epitome of a devoted girlfriend. Everyone thought I was madly in love with him, but actually, it was Adrian who first asked to be together. I didn’t expect him to confess. Because he would often log into his alternate social media account to spy on Bella’s life. So I thought he still hadn’t gotten over her. However, Adrian looked at me affectionately and said. “Vanessa, you’re my salvation. If it weren’t for you, I probably wouldn’t be in this world anymore.” “I’ve already fallen in love with you. I want to be with you every day.” I was so moved that I agreed to be with Adrian. We were together for eight whole years. Even Adrian’s parents never imagined that someone as willful as him could be so stable with me. Unfortunately, no one knew. During those eight years, I had countless times suggested wanting to have a home with Adrian, and he rejected me with various excuses every time. If I hadn’t gotten pregnant by accident and Adrian’s parents found out, Adrian wouldn’t have even wanted the child. Under strong pressure from the Hayes family, he reluctantly married me. After marriage, when he was accompanying me on an outdoor adventure, he accidentally learned about Bella’s death. He locked himself in his room for three days and nights. On the fourth day, when I forced the door open, I only found a suicide note. “Bella is my one true love in this life. If she’s not here, what meaning does my life have?” “I hope in the next life, I can give her the most spectacular wedding.” Only then did I realize that Adrian had jumped off a cliff the night before to follow Bella. My heart died in that instant. Therefore, when I was reborn back to my college days, I didn’t try to stop Adrian from going to find his first love. I only felt incredibly grateful that I could break up with him and have a fresh new future. I prepared to leave. But Bella stepped in front of me with one stride, saying arrogantly. “Vanessa, look at your athletic wear-a style that wasn’t even popular ten years ago!” “You’ve really hit rock bottom, haven’t you!” “How about I beg Adrian to arrange a server position for you here?” “Miss Bella is truly kind.” A man trying to curry favor with Adrian suddenly spoke up. He looked at me and sneered contemptuously. “This is the most luxurious banquet hall in the entire city. Working as a server here, the tips alone are two to three hundred thousand a month!” “A woman like you has probably never seen that much money in your life!” “Why don’t you kowtow and thank her!” Seeing this, a flash of impatience crossed my eyes. “I have a job. No need to trouble yourself.” However, Bella wouldn’t let it go. “You’re not lying, are you?” “What kind of work?” “Painting.” Hearing my words, Adrian, who had been silent, suddenly looked at me, his eyes filled with complex emotions.

“Painting?” Adrian murmured softly. After a moment of silence, he looked at me, his expression full of meaning. “When I said I liked painting back then, I was just making conversation. I can’t believe you took it seriously.” “Whatever. For old times’ sake, I can give you a respectable job.” Hearing this, I froze. The next second, I realized Adrian must have misunderstood. He definitely thought I chose painting because of him. But that wasn’t the case at all. When I was reborn, I discovered that all my savings had already been spent on exhibition tickets and painting supplies. To avoid wasting them, I could only look at the exhibitions and paint myself. As I painted more and more, I fell in love with this art form. Over these years, my paintings had gained some recognition in the country. Even abroad, I was occasionally invited to bring my works to exhibitions. Therefore, my current income was much higher than Adrian’s CEO salary. However, I didn’t plan to tell him this. After all, Adrian had never chosen to believe in me. And besides… I looked down at myself. This athletic wear I was wearing did look rather dirty. But there was nothing I could do-I had come straight to this banquet hall right after getting off my flight. I hadn’t had time to change out of the clothes I’d worn while gathering inspiration in the mountains abroad. But what did it matter? I looked at Adrian with complete detachment. “I really love my work. I’ll keep painting. No need to concern yourself.” Hearing this, Adrian’s face instantly darkened. “Vanessa, must you be so ungrateful?” “Forget it, Adrian. It’s not worth getting angry at this kind of woman. Let’s just ignore her.” Bella tried to persuade him. Just then, the server from earlier suddenly changed expression, pointing at me furiously. “You thief!” “Did you steal this athletic wear from another guest?” “Impossible. I bought it myself.” I frowned slightly. “You’re lying. I recognize this brand. They only do custom orders!” “A pauper like you probably can’t even afford one of their buttons!” Hearing this, Adrian looked at me with even more disgust. “Vanessa, how did you end up like this!” “Exactly. Just now she said she had a job and didn’t need help. Turns out her job is being a thief!” Bella’s eyes were full of disdain. “You have hands and feet. How can you do such sneaky things!” Feeling everyone’s pointing and whispering around me, my expression turned cold! These people really would say anything to curry favor with Adrian. I instantly lost all patience. “I told you, these are my clothes!” “If you don’t believe me, feel free to call the police!” “Otherwise, I’ll sue you for slander!” Hearing this, the server’s eyes flashed with guilt. “Why are you getting so worked up!” “If not for worrying about disturbing Mr. Hudson’s homecoming banquet because of a lowlife like you, I definitely wouldn’t let you off!” “Speaking of which, it’s strange. Why hasn’t Mr. Hudson shown up yet?” Someone in the crowd raised the question. “A big shot like Mr. Hudson should appear at the most important moment of the banquet.” Adrian said confidently. “I heard Mr. Hudson came back with his wife and child this time!” “Really? Which lucky girl ended up with Mr. Hudson?” “A man like Hudson moves in a completely different circle. We can only dream.” Amid the chatter, Bella’s face lit up with an excited smile. “Adrian, can you invite Mr. Hudson to our wedding? Wouldn’t that be incredible?” “I’ll try my best!” Adrian smiled confidently. No sooner had he spoken than the banquet coordinator approached, his expression grave, a dozen black-suited bodyguards flanking him.

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After I returned to my wealthy birth family, the fake heiress Megan took me along on ninety-nine dates with her fiancé, Lucas. Every single time, she’d cry to Lucas, “Jenna should be your fiancée, not me. I’m just a fraud.” Megan deliberately locked Lucas and me in a room together, even made me wear her dresses to test him. Every single time, Lucas firmly chose her. Megan got her satisfaction from being chosen over and over again. Until the last time, when Megan demanded Lucas propose to her on a livestream witnessed by millions of viewers. With everyone watching, Megan once again claimed she wasn’t worthy and bought a last-minute ticket to Paris. “Lucas, Jenna should be your fiancée.” She thought this time would be like all the others: Lucas would chase after her. But Lucas just wearily rubbed his temples. “Jenna Morgan, will you marry me?” I smiled as I slipped on the ten-carat pink diamond that was originally meant for Megan, becoming Lucas’s fiancée amid the blessings of guests and elders. After the guests left and only the two of us remained, Lucas looked at the string of red exclamation marks on his phone and rubbed his temples. “Jenna, I’m sorry. If you meet someone you like later, you can come to me anytime to break off the engagement.” “The family will give you reasonable compensation. We might need to attend some events together during this time. Sorry for the trouble.” Because of Megan’s constant “humility,” Lucas had been humiliated dozens of times. The family elders already had issues with him. If it weren’t for me, Lucas and his family would have become the laughingstock of their entire circle today. I nodded gracefully and appropriately. “It’s fine. Until my sister returns, I’ll do my best as your fiancée.” “Don’t blame her. She just lacks security. When she comes back, I’ll return the position of Mrs. Anderson to her.” “I’ll have to trouble you to look after me during this time, Mr. Anderson.” Lucas’s expression darkened considerably when thinking about his runaway bride, but it softened a bit when he looked at me. He transferred thirty million dollars to me as compensation. “If your parents get any news about Megan, let me know.” I nodded at him with concern, then immediately deleted the location information Megan had sent me a few hours ago. She wanted to use me to tell Lucas where she was, like before, for some grand cross-continental romance chase. But now I was Lucas’s fiancée. Did she really think I’d give back what I’d already gotten? Dream on! After Lucas left, I returned to the Morgan house. My parents were sitting on the sofa anxiously calling Megan. When their eyes fell on me, they both seemed hesitant to speak. “Jenna, Megan and Lucas grew up together. They love each other. Your engagement to Lucas today was just a temporary measure…” “Megan is kind-hearted and willing to give these things back to you, but she doesn’t owe you anything.” Megan’s mother had switched us at birth, letting Megan live as the Morgan family heiress for over twenty years, but my birth parents said she didn’t owe me anything. This itself was a form of favoritism. But I just smiled lightly. “I know. Don’t worry, Mom and Dad. Today when my sister left Lucas at the proposal, the Anderson family must have been upset. I only agreed to be Lucas’s bride to help her.” “I’ll take care of Lucas’s family for her and explain things to them. When she comes back, I’ll return to my proper place.” My parents visibly relaxed. “Good girl. When your sister comes back, we’ll definitely find you a good match.” “We’ll find someone from a lower social standing, so you can live more comfortably.” I smiled politely, then turned away. Wait for my sister to come back? By then I’d probably already be married to Lucas.

The next day, I changed into modest, dignified clothing and went to the Anderson family estate. The Anderson family had prospered for hundreds of years with deep roots. This marriage was the Morgan family marrying up. My parents could never find another family like this, which was why they insisted Megan marry into it. But why should I listen to them? I brought gifts to visit Lucas’s grandmother Emma. She was very pleased with my gentle, gracious manner. From then on, I went to the estate every day, sometimes personally cooking a dish, sometimes just keeping Emma company. I didn’t deliberately try to please Lucas, but thoughtfully integrated myself into his life. After running into me at his family home several times, Lucas invited me to attend events as his companion. At my first event of this scale, Lucas worried I wouldn’t understand high society etiquette and might make mistakes, but my performance exceeded his expectations. I conversed naturally with guests, looking like a socialite who’d grown up in wealthy circles. Lucas couldn’t help but smile slightly. In the light, his eyes showed a touch of warmth. “When did you learn all this? I remember Megan saying the family that raised you wasn’t well-off financially. You shouldn’t have had access to this kind of training.” “Not well-off” would be an understatement. I thought of the moldy walls, the drafty windows, and my abusive birth parents, yet I still managed a graceful smile. “I didn’t want to embarrass you. I hired two etiquette tutors.” “Luckily, my hard work these past few months paid off.” Lucas sounded impressed. “To learn so much in such a short time, you are very clever, Jenna Morgan.” I only smiled and said nothing. When I first returned to the Morgan family, Megan secretly mocked me for being unsophisticated, for not understanding proper manners. I still remembered our first meeting when she tearfully apologized to me while deliberately wearing designer clothes worth hundreds of thousands in front of me. Using her fair skin to contrast with my sallow complexion, using her decades of elite upbringing to highlight my rough manners. So with my first payment, I secretly hired etiquette coaches. Whatever Megan knew, I would learn. Whatever she didn’t know, I would learn too. But I wouldn’t tell Lucas any of this. “It’s what I should do.” Lucas was pleased and pulled out a black card. “We’re engaged. From now on, use this card for whatever you need.” I showed a playful smile and happily accepted it. “Thank you, Lucas.” From that day on, my relationship with Lucas grew closer. I would bring him meals during work under the pretense of his grandmother sending them, and attended various occasions with him. I always maintained a comfortable distance from him. Within two months, he’d grown accustomed to my presence. What really changed his view of me was when a French translator had an emergency during a foreign client inspection, and I helped Anderson Corp secure the deal with fluent French. That time, Lucas stared at me for a long while. I smiled at him against the light. Lucas seemed to be seeing me for the first time and was stunned. When we parted that day, his expression was complex. “Jenna, you’re completely different from what I thought. You’re truly an outstanding person.” From that day on, the way Lucas looked at me changed-the way a man looks at a woman. I pretended not to notice and maintained my relaxed attitude toward him. He started inviting me to lunch and dinner, and brought me gifts from business trips. Until one business dinner when a man deliberately tried to get me drunk and take advantage of me. Lucas immediately stepped in front of me and beat the man up. When we went to the hospital, I hugged him tightly for the first time, gripping his hand. “Lucas, please be okay. You have to be okay. It’s all my fault.” He held my hand back, resting his head on my shoulder. “Jenna, don’t worry. I’m fine.” I heard his heart pounding. As we grew closer, Megan, who’d been waiting in vain for Lucas, finally couldn’t stand it anymore. She subtly revealed her location to Lucas through friends back home.

She expected Lucas to be overjoyed and drop everything to find her immediately. But unfortunately, Lucas just stared at the address for a long time and ultimately didn’t go. Megan was furious. Around this time, she learned from my parents that on the very day she ran away, Lucas and I had gotten engaged. She thought Lucas loved her so much-he’d endured her ninety-nine tests, so his failure to come find her must be because the Anderson family elders had interfered. She’d always been spoiled and couldn’t handle the slightest grievance, so she immediately called the Anderson family to confront them. Her words were extremely vicious. “You feudal remnants with your arranged marriages-because your own marriages are unhappy, you want to torment me! I’m telling you, Lucas will only marry me!” “If you have the guts, try making him marry Jenna Morgan. He’d rather die than agree!” Emma happened to answer the call. Hearing Megan’s words, she went straight into the emergency room. Emma was nearly ninety with poor health. This attack of rage sent her into critical condition. She gripped Lucas’s hand, saying her only wish was to see Lucas married. After all, Lucas was born to her beloved youngest son and had been her precious darling since childhood. “Lucas, just marry Jenna. I must see you marry Jenna before I die.” That night, Lucas smoked half a pack of cigarettes and made many unanswered calls. The next morning, he came to me again. “Jenna, let’s get married.” Lucas’s offer was generous-not only Anderson Corp shares but also hundreds of millions in bride price. He said, “We’ve been getting along well lately. I believe you have feelings for me too. Perhaps we can try being like a normal married couple.” “Megan and I did have something in the past, but I’ll let it go. I’ll work hard to be a good husband. Will you marry me?” Lucas looked somewhat anxious. What reason did I have to refuse? This should have been mine all along. The Anderson family began preparing for the wedding. Megan still didn’t know what was happening back home. She was still in Paris waiting for her prince to break through convention, defy all the elders, and appear before her bathed in light. She didn’t know her white knight was already trying on wedding dresses with me, and still sent me provocative messages. “Jenna, I’ve already given everything back to you. Did you get Lucas and our parents’ love?” “Don’t think that just because you’re their biological daughter, you’ll have everything. I’m going to show you that you’ll never compare to me, even when I keep handing you opportunities on a silver platter.” I didn’t respond. I just calmly looked at the smiling bride in the mirror and took a beautiful photo. Megan froze for a long moment, then her phone erupted with countless abusive messages. I didn’t reply to a single one. I calmly blocked and deleted her. Megan’s specialty was the art of strategic retreat. On her first day back home, she said she wanted to return the Morgan family heiress identity to me and cut her wrist with a small knife in front of everyone. My parents panicked and spent an entire week caring for her, not speaking a word to me. The servants, seeing my parents didn’t care about me, fed me cold leftovers for a week. When she returned from the hospital, she pretended to want to give me her room and all the expensive things my parents had bought her over the years. My parents were heartbroken and labeled me as competitive and aggressive. “Jenna, you are our biological daughter, but what has Megan done wrong? She’s already so understanding. Can’t you stop targeting her?” Between us, she was always the winner, always making concessions. Every time she retreated, the distance between me and my parents grew wider. She was using this method to assert her dominance over me, to show me that my parents would only ever love her, and that her fiancé was the same. But this time, she wouldn’t win. After all, not everyone would indulge her infinitely like the parents who raised her for over twenty years. She’d used me to test Lucas hundreds of times. Even when we wore identical dresses, even when Lucas was drugged and locked in a room with me, he firmly chose her side. Then she’d squeal with joy and throw herself into Lucas’s arms, making him pick her up and spin her around. Every time that happened, I’d stand awkwardly to the side, completely reduced to a prop highlighting her charm. Countless instances of indulgence made Megan forget that the most fragile thing in this world is the human heart. I calmly prepared for the wedding with Lucas. Emma’s condition forced us to rush the wedding, but none of the grandeur was spared. The Anderson family hosted a lavish banquet that day. Every relative, friend, and business partner of note was there. The scene I had been waiting for finally unfolded. Even Emma, not yet fully recovered, had left the hospital to preside over our ceremony, sitting warmly in the front row. Below, a sea of elite guests watched the couple on stage. A round of enthusiastic applause faded. The officiant raised the microphone. “Mr. Anderson, do you take Miss Morgan to be your wife?” “I-” Just as Lucas took the mic, the doors burst open. There stood Megan, in a full wedding gown, making her grand, disastrous entrance. “Lucas Anderson, don’t you dare! I don’t consent!”

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