Author: Momo Chan

The moment my foster family decided to spend a billion dollars on a knock-off Ming Dynasty tiara for Savannah, I didn’t just stand back. I signed over every dollar of the company’s liquid capital to support the purchase. In my first life, when the “real heiress” Savannah Stone attended this auction, she had been determined to make a No-Limit Bid for this same antique jewelry set. I had recognized the malicious inflation of the price and stepped in immediately, desperate to protect her. I told her the piece was a cheap replica and that I could buy her something genuinely exquisite. Savannah had taken my concern as a deliberate, humiliating lecture on her lack of taste. She ran out of the venue in a rage and was killed instantly by a car. My foster parents, Richard and Veronica Stone, and my fiancé, Preston Shaw, had held me and consoled me. It was just bad luck. It wasn’t my fault. Later, I spearheaded the Stone & Co. IPO, turning Richard and Veronica into the area’s most powerful moguls. On the day of my wedding, they and Preston kidnapped me and threw me onto a train track. My final, desperate question: Why? Their final answer, as they kicked my body toward the oncoming locomotive: “If you hadn’t deliberately humiliated Savvy that day, she wouldn’t have died. This is what you owe her.” The train crushed me. I opened my eyes and found myself back on the day of Savannah’s reckless No-Limit Bid. 1 “I’m bidding thirty million for this tiara, and I dare any of you to try and beat me.” Hearing the familiar, entitled pitch in Savannah’s voice, I looked around the opulent auction hall. The realization hit me like a physical punch. I had been reborn. “An auction is determined by the highest bidder, Savannah. Why can’t we try?” A mocking voice cut through the air. “You’ve only been back with the Stones for a month. Do you even have that kind of money? Maybe give up now.” “Fifty million. I’ve decided I want this headdress.” A wealthy socialite peered down her nose at Savannah, baiting her. Savannah’s face flushed scarlet. She surged to her feet and made the dramatic, recognized gesture of a No-Limit Bid—a declaration that she would pay any price to win. The whole room erupted into a murmur of shock and excitement. Veronica, my foster mother, tugged at Savannah’s arm, trying to look concerned. “Savvy, darling, don’t be impulsive. There are plenty of other pieces. Maybe you’ll like something else more.” Then, Veronica’s hand came down hard on my arm. “Anya Reed, are you mute? Say something! Don’t you know you should be talking sense into your sister?” The memory of the last life—of that same slap, that same condemnation—flashed in my mind. Last time, I had seen the malicious intent and the cheap replica. I had begged Savannah to stop, only to have her assume I was attacking her taste. She died. The Stones and Preston had comforted me, only to later kill me for my perceived sin. I remembered the agonizing crush of the train, the bone-deep hatred. My fists clenched, then slowly relaxed. I turned to Savannah and offered a small, cold smile. “Mom, Dad,” I said smoothly. “You’re the ones who said you wanted to compensate Savannah. You brought her here to treat her. She’s finally found something she loves. Why should we stop her?” Richard and Veronica’s faces froze in a sudden, awkward silence. “Savvy, a No-Limit Bid isn’t something you just throw around,” Veronica stammered, panicking slightly. “Let Mom buy you something else, alright?” Savannah pouted, tears welling up in a practiced, pathetic display. “Mom, it’s not for me. It’s a birthday gift for Mrs. Lewis, the head of Lewis Global.” Richard and Veronica’s eyes widened immediately. “Savvy, you… you know Vivian Lewis?” Savannah shot a triumphant, contemptuous look my way before answering. “I got an invitation to Mrs. Lewis’s birthday gala yesterday. I heard she absolutely adores this particular Ming Dynasty design. I want to give it to her to cement our relationship with the Lewis family.” Richard clapped Savannah on the shoulder, his eyes alight with avarice. “Savvy, I had no idea you had an in with Lewis Global! If they give us even a few projects, Stone & Co. will go stratospheric. Savvy, your father supports you. Make that No-Limit Bid!” Savannah’s voice had been loud, deliberately so. When word spread that Stone & Co. was trying to cozy up to Lewis Global, their corporate rivals reacted instantly. They couldn’t let the Stones gain such a massive, unassailable advantage. The price shot up. Thirty million. Fifty million. One hundred million dollars. Watching Savannah keep bidding, a cold laugh bubbled in my throat. She was already a fool for planning to spend over $100 million on a fake to impress Mrs. Lewis. But broadcasting her intentions to the entire hall? She was practically inviting every enemy Stone & Co. had to bid against her, just to deny her the connection. She was terrified of spending too little. Four or five rival companies vying for the same IPO slot as the Stones couldn’t allow them to leapfrog ahead. The bidding quickly crested the $500 million mark, with only one other competitor still holding out. An auction attendant approached the Stones’ table. “Ms. Stone, your collateral deposit has reached its limit. To continue, the deposit must be increased. Should you forfeit the bid now, you will be liable for a ten percent breach-of-contract penalty.” Savannah’s brow furrowed. “Why would I have to pay a penalty for quitting?” The attendant remained polite. “It’s the rule of the No-Limit Bid. Regardless of the price, you are obligated to purchase the item. If your funds are insufficient and you forfeit, you pay a ten percent fine on the highest bid.” Panic finally registered on Richard and Veronica’s faces. “Our total savings are five hundred million dollars at most. What are we going to do?” Richard turned to me, his voice sharp. “Anya Reed! How much money do you have left? Hand it all over to your sister now.” I blinked, feigning surprise. “Oh, I had a little incident earlier. I accidentally triggered a security lock on my main accounts. They won’t unlock for a week. We’ll just have to forfeit, I guess. We’d only be out fifty million dollars.” I held up my phone, showing them a screen displaying a generic ‘Account Frozen’ message. Savannah’s eyes turned glassy. She abruptly knelt down in front of me. “Sister, you don’t have to like me, but this tiara is the key to Lewis Global for our family. It affects the entire future of Stone & Co. Please, please help me, just this once?” Seeing Savannah on her knees, Veronica completely lost it. She raised her hand and delivered a stinging slap directly across my face. “Anya Reed, you heartless snake! You know your sister made a No-Limit Bid, and you deliberately froze your own accounts? I order you to cough up the five hundred million dollars immediately, or you are out of this house and out of the company!” Preston Shaw, my fiancé, stared at me with unconcealed disgust. “Anya, you utterly disappoint me. You usurped Savannah’s life, living in luxury for years, and now that she’s finally home, you still try to sabotage her? You are a completely ungrateful viper.” Preston’s loud accusation instantly drew all the attention in the immediate area. Everyone stared at me with strange, judgmental looks. I was suddenly the wicked step-sister, the ungrateful foster child, the vulture who wouldn’t sacrifice five hundred million. I let out a soft, humorless laugh. “Five hundred million? I don’t have it in my personal accounts,” I admitted. “But there is another way.” Savannah, thinking I had yielded, looked up at me with open condescension. “Then if you have a way, Sister, hurry up and use it! Don’t waste everyone’s time.” Preston glared at me. “Anya, you need to learn from Savannah. Your character makes you unworthy of being my wife. If only Savannah hadn’t been lost all those years ago…” I cut him off, my voice steady. “Don’t feel sad. I’ll make it easy for you.” I reached into my bag and produced two sets of legal documents that I had prepared earlier—the severance papers, formally dissolving my ties to the Stones. I handed them to my foster parents. “Sign these two agreements, and I’ll tell you the solution for the other five hundred million.” Richard and Veronica stared, momentarily stunned. “Anya Reed, you want to cut ties with us? Have you lost your mind?” I smiled, a cold, empty expression aimed only at them. “A month ago, when Savannah returned, you pressured me to change my surname to make her feel secure. That was the moment you declared yourselves a complete family. I’m simply making my exit. From now on, I have no connection to the Stone family.” Richard and Veronica launched into a tirade, calling me ungrateful, ruthless, and saying they wasted twenty years raising me. Savannah, teary and pitiful, spoke up. “Sister, please. Every mistake is mine. Don’t be angry with Mom and Dad. If you hate me so much, I’ll leave the house immediately. I won’t bother you anymore.” Veronica pulled Savannah into a tight embrace. “Savvy, you are my own blood daughter! You are not the one who needs to leave.” Seeing Savannah’s manipulative vulnerability, Richard, who had been wavering, snatched the severance papers from my hand. He and Veronica signed them both, one after the other. “Anya Reed, you are going to regret this day,” Richard hissed. Ignoring him, I pulled out a separate corporate bank card and passed it over. “This card has the five hundred million. It’s the total liquid capital for all of Stone & Co.’s ongoing projects. Use it, and the company’s financial chain will break. The method is yours. Whether you use it or not is your business.” Richard had a flicker of sanity left. “No! Breaking the financial chain puts the company at massive risk!” Savannah snatched the card before he could finish. “Dad, it’s only temporary! With Lewis Global’s support, the IPO will be a cinch!” She shoved the card into the attendant’s hand. “I bid one billion dollars! This tiara is mine.” At the doubled price, the other bidder withdrew immediately. The auctioneer slammed the gavel three times, declaring Savannah the winner. The attendant delivered the headdress. Savannah looked at me, her eyes brimming with victorious malice. “Sister, to facilitate our upcoming partnership with Lewis Global, I’m going to take over as CEO. You can be my personal secretary and assist me.” I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. She spent a billion on a fake tiara and thought it was enough to usurp my entire life’s work. Preston grabbed my arm, annoyed. “Anya Reed, as Savannah’s secretary, you need to take care of her. She hates onions and cilantro in her food. Her clothes must be hand-washed. You need to organize her daily schedule by 5 AM. And try not to bother her with business you can handle yourself.” I rolled my eyes, utterly exasperated. “I’m a secretary? Sounds more like I’m supposed to be her mother.” Preston’s face hardened. “Anya, don’t tell me you’re jealous of the CEO title? Don’t forget, Savannah is the real Stone heiress. You’ve been squatting here for years. Are you going to keep monopolizing the company?” I scoffed. “I resign. I’m walking away from the company. From this moment forward, Stone & Co. and the Stone family are irrelevant to me.” Savannah’s eyes lit up. “Sister, the company is about to go public! Are you really going to quit?” I curved my lips into a thin smile. “I’ll be watching your IPO. With great interest.” Preston glowered, warning me. “Anya Reed, don’t try to play hard to get. You’ll regret this.” I finally lost my composure. “Play your mother’s head,” I snapped. Preston shot to his feet, ready to argue, but a sudden commotion broke out in the room. “Mrs. Lewis is here!” “Vivian Lewis looks like she’s looking for someone.” My phone vibrated with a text message. “Darling, I heard you were at the auction. I’m passing by, I’ll pick you up. —Mom.” The Stones still had no idea I had reunited with my biological mother, Vivian Lewis, a year ago. Vivian spotted me and started walking toward me. As I stood up, Savannah suddenly lunged. She violently shoved me, sending me tumbling over the few stairs and crashing hard onto the floor. Savannah rushed past me toward my mother. “Mrs. Lewis, hello! I’m Savannah Stone.” Vivian Lewis’s expression was cold. She stopped and gave Savannah a sharp, head-to-toe appraisal. The next second, Vivian raised her hand and delivered a stunning, loud slap to Savannah’s face. She then roughly pushed Savannah aside and hurried toward me. “Savannah, is this the kind of manners the Stone family taught you? Laying hands on people?” Vivian helped me up from the floor. Preston rushed to Savannah’s side, his eyes full of anguish for the ‘victim.’ “Mrs. Lewis, there must be a misunderstanding! Savannah isn’t like that. Anya Reed is always causing trouble. You should know, Anya is conniving, shallow, and—” Vivian spun around, fixing him with a look so icy it stopped Preston’s tirade mid-sentence. Richard and Veronica also rushed over. They glanced at Savannah, then Richard’s hand shot out, slapping me across the face. “Anya Reed, you ungrateful wretch! You stole Savannah’s life for so long, and now that she’s home, you still sabotage her and try to slander her? Have you no shame at all?” Vivian Lewis’s face went crimson with pure, hot rage. “Are you blind? Savannah clearly shoved Anya! And you stand there and completely twist the truth and abuse my daughter? Is this how you’ve been bullying my child all these years?”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “387530”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

On the day we were supposed to get our marriage license, Xavier suddenly demanded that I take legal responsibility for his aunt’s unborn child. “My aunt is pregnant out of wedlock, and it would ruin her reputation. Put the child under your name, and we’ll raise it as our own.” When I refused, Xavier dropped a bombshell: “We’ll get married when you agree!” He left me at the courthouse, striding away without looking back. This was the ninth time our marriage registration had failed because of his aunt. Did he think I would wait for him like I always did? I looked down at my phone and saw a notification from a friend’s post: “The girl I love most is marrying someone else today. Heartbroken!” I sent him a message: “Want to get married? I’m at the courthouse, waiting for you. Now.” 1 Fifteen minutes later, Liam roared up in his car. “Really? We can get married? You and me?” His eyes couldn’t hide the secret joy and disbelief. “Cut the crap. Did you bring your ID?” Liam muttered under his breath: “I dropped an eight-hundred-million-dollar contract signing to come here, can’t I ask one question?” But after getting the license, he stared at the little red book repeatedly: “I really married you, Serena? You’re my wife now?” Then he apologetically told me he had to go back to finish signing the contract and asked me to take a taxi home. While waiting for a cab, Xavier pulled up in front of me with his aunt, Felicity. “Get in.” I pressed the bag containing my marriage certificate and opened the car door. “For you.” He handed me a box. Inside was a silk scarf. Xavier was always like this. After upsetting me, he would give me a small gift. Then we would tacitly never mention the unhappy incident again, and it would pass. Xavier’s aunt, Felicity, subtly touched the bag beside her. Looking at the scarf in the box again, I realized it was just a free gift that came with her bag. I pretended not to notice, as usual, and put the gift box aside. Felicity curled her lips into a mocking smile. “Where are we going?” I asked. Xavier looked at his aunt tenderly: “Picking up a gift, then heading to the old family mansion.” I remembered then, today was Xavier’s grandfather’s eightieth birthday. We had agreed to go long ago. It was good to go today, to say goodbye to Old Man Xie. Through the rearview mirror, Xavier looked at my face cautiously and explained for the first time ever: “Serena, don’t overthink it. Auntie being pregnant alone will cause gossip.” “Raising the child under our names will make it easier for her to marry in the future.” I said indifferently: “Indeed, being an unwed mother is bad for reputation. Not even having a boyfriend makes it look cheap. Raising it under your name is best.” Hearing my words, Felicity’s face turned purple with anger. She turned around and said, “You…” Xavier corrected me: “It’s raising it under our names.” Then he looked at me expectantly. I sneered: “What if I’m not willing?” Xavier’s face darkened instantly: “If you’re not willing, we break up.” I said “Okay.” Seeing Xavier’s face relax. My “Okay” meant breaking up. He must have misunderstood. He continued: “See, Serena, if you were this obedient earlier, we would have gotten the certificate already.” I didn’t answer, just watching the scenery fly backward outside the window. Just like our three-year relationship, flying away from me. Felicity and Xavier were the same age; she was the adopted daughter of his grandfather. And she was the thorn in our relationship. On dates, Xavier would bring her. At meals, Xavier would bring her. Even the house we lived in together had a room for her. I complained many times, but Xavier always said: “She’s my aunt, what are you thinking?” Xavier and his aunt grew up together and were very close. Every time he said this, I would back down. But Felicity seemed to lack boundaries, always deliberately showing intimacy with him. They got out to pick up the gift together, and Felicity specifically linked arms with him. From behind, they really looked like a couple. And I was left alone in the car, like an outsider. For almost three years, it had been like this. I felt like the third wheel. But I spent two years chasing Xavier and couldn’t bear to let go. He knew my psychology, which is why he abandoned me at the courthouse time and again. Lost in memories, my phone rang. It was Liam: “Wifey, finished signing the contract, but I have to entertain clients tonight, so I’ll be back late. Eat well by yourself.” “I’ll contact you when I’m done.” 2 I just realized I was someone else’s wife now. It was too sudden; I hadn’t adapted to this identity yet. But answering Liam’s call, I felt more relaxed than ever before. “Who was that?” Xavier opened the car door just as I hung up. He looked at me suspiciously. “A friend.” I don’t know why, but I didn’t want to tell him about marrying Liam yet. Felicity also got in the car carrying gifts. Putting down the gifts, she rubbed her hands and blew on them. “So cold.” Xavier immediately wrapped her hands in his: “I’ll warm them for you.” As if I wasn’t in the car. Suddenly I was glad he abandoned me at the courthouse this time. If we had really gotten the license, could I stand their ambiguity for decades? I shook my head gently. “Xavier, it was so cold outside just now, is the baby okay?” Hearing her words, Xavier looked nervous. He quickly took off the Bodhi bracelet from his wrist and put it on Felicity’s wrist. Through the rearview mirror, Felicity gave me a triumphant smile. I had climbed 999 steps on my period to pray for this bracelet for Xavier at a mountaintop temple. Caught in a storm on the way down, I was almost washed away. Two years ago when I gave it to him, he was moved to tears. He said he would never take it off. Now, just two years later, he gave it away so casually. The past flashed by like a meteor. I tried hard to hold back my tears. I grabbed Felicity’s hand, snatched the bracelet, and threw it out the window. A flash of anger crossed Felicity’s face, then she looked on the verge of tears: “Xavier, why is Serena angry? Is she blaming you for giving me the bracelet? Even if she’s angry, she shouldn’t throw it away, right? After all, it’s something you wore. She doesn’t care about you at all.” Xavier’s face was livid: “Serena, what are you fussing about now? It’s just a broken bracelet, not something precious. What’s wrong with me giving it to Auntie? If you keep being so selfish, I can’t marry you.” I said dismissively: “Then don’t marry, what’s the big deal?” Hearing my words, Xavier got even angrier. I should be the one angry about this, right? But he pursed his lips tightly and drove fast. Even running two red lights. As soon as we arrived home, Felicity was taken to a room by the old man. “Whose bastard are you carrying? If you can’t get engaged, abort it immediately.” “Women of the Xie family are not allowed to have children out of wedlock.” Even from far away, I could hear the old man’s roar. And Felicity’s sobbing. Xavier looked worried. He pulled me over, face solemn, and persuaded again: “Serena, you see how hard it is for Auntie.” “Go tell Grandpa you can’t conceive, and Auntie is a surrogate for you.” “You’re afraid of pain anyway; with this child, you won’t have to give birth yourself.” I slapped his hand away: “For your aunt, I have to say I’m infertile? Are you sick? Is this child yours?” Xavier’s face darkened, obviously displeased: “Serena!” He said heavily. “What nonsense are you talking about? How could I do such a thing?” “Didn’t you agree in the car just now?” I sneered: “The things you’ve done could fill a book.” Xavier grabbed my wrist: “Serena, if you still want to marry me, accept this child and stop spreading rumors about me and Auntie. Otherwise, we break up.” “Think about it.” Before I could answer, he shoved me and walked away. Near the end of the banquet, I was about to say goodbye to the old man. Turning a corner, I was dragged onto the terrace by Xavier. 3 Felicity was waiting there. Eyes red. Xavier gripped my wrist tightly, his voice cold as ice: “Serena, you must give a definite answer today. Will you put the child under your name or not?” I struggled hard but couldn’t break free. “Xavier, let go. You care so much about this child, it must be yours.” After saying this, I saw Felicity panic for a second. Xavier gripped harder, hurting my wrist. “Still spreading rumors. I’ve really indulged you too much.” His other hand pinched my chin forcefully: “Grandpa scolded Auntie today. Are you satisfied seeing Auntie embarrassed?” “If I knew you were such a vicious woman, I wouldn’t have accepted your pursuit back then.” Whenever he argued with me before, he always said he regretted accepting my pursuit. I would immediately surrender and start coaxing him. No matter whose fault it was, it was all mine. I apologized and made promises until he reluctantly accepted. But this time, I suppressed the anger in my heart and said softly but firmly: “It’s not too late now. Let’s break up!” Xavier was stunned for a moment. He let go of my wrist and took a step back. His skeptical gaze swept over my face again and again: “Serena, are you serious?” Before I could answer, he added: “You know me. If I agree to break up, you won’t even have a chance to regret it.” “Don’t say break up lightly in front of me in the future.” With that, he turned and walked out. I also turned to leave. This place, this Xie family, had nothing to do with me anymore. Just one step out, Felicity pushed me hard. In desperation, I grabbed Felicity’s arm. She rolled down the terrace steps with me. I was pinned under Felicity. Pressed too painfully, I pushed her. She rolled onto the ground. Turning half my body, sitting up, I slapped her face hard. Too much force, making my palm sting. Hearing the commotion, Xavier turned back. The blurted “Auntie” echoed through the banquet hall. He rushed over, kicked me away, and picked up Felicity. “Auntie, how are you? Where does it hurt?” Felicity was incredibly weak: “It hurts, it hurts. She hit me.” Felicity pointed at me, tears flowing instantly. Xavier looked at me with fire in his eyes: “Serena, I won’t forgive you this time. Just wait.” “Aren’t you even going to ask why?” Shouting this sentence, tears swirled in my eyes too. Partly from pain. Partly because Xavier always unconditionally believed Felicity, never me. It had been like this for three years. With that, he carried Felicity and walked out. After two steps, he turned back: “Serena, follow us to the hospital. If anything happens to Auntie, I will definitely call the police.” His tone contained a thousand years of ice. I hurt all over. Especially my legs; when Felicity fell, she landed right on them. My elbows hit the ground, now bloody patches. My injuries were more severe; anyone could see. But to Xavier, it was like he was blind; his eyes only saw his aunt. I stood up with difficulty, grabbed my down jacket, and followed them into the car. Xavier drove even faster than before, almost hitting the guardrail. While driving, he asked: “Auntie, don’t sleep, we’re almost at the hospital.” That tone, as if his aunt was about to die. Hearing his words, Felicity also pretended to be extremely uncomfortable. But she was just scrolling on her phone a moment ago. At the hospital, after blood tests, Felicity made me hold the cotton swab. After pressing, I quietly pocketed the swab. After a round of checks, besides a little anemia, Felicity was fine. Even the baby was growing steadily in her belly. Hearing about the anemia, Xavier was sweating with nervousness. “Anemia? What should we do?” “Right, Auntie has a rare blood type, and Serena has a rare blood type too. She can transfuse her blood.” He dragged me in front of the doctor. 4 The doctor looked at him mockingly: “It’s normal for women to be slightly anemic. No need for a transfusion at all.” But Xavier wouldn’t listen to the doctor. “You must give her a transfusion today. She’s pregnant; you can’t be responsible if something happens.” The doctor wanted to persuade him further, but Xavier flashed his business card. “My family invested in this hospital. If you don’t want to lose your job, draw the blood now.” Seeing Xavier’s obsession, I wanted to break free and leave quickly. The doctor saw my reluctance and said helplessly: “Even if we draw this lady’s blood, we need her consent, right?” He looked at me inquiringly. “I don’t consent. Why should my blood be given to someone else?” Xavier gripped my wrist tightly: “Serena, you have to understand. Auntie is pregnant and can’t be harmed.” “She can’t be harmed, but I can, right?” When I spoke, my voice trembled with anger. I didn’t know the man I had been with for so long was such a scumbag. Hearing my words, Xavier hesitated for a moment. But he still didn’t let go of my hand: “Serena, be obedient. After giving blood to Auntie, we’ll go get the license tomorrow.” “Haven’t you always wanted to? I promise not to break my word this time.” I tried to shake off his hand while shouting “Let go! Let go!” He still wouldn’t let go. And started calling security to help hold me down. In desperation, I dialed Liam’s number: “Save me—” Before Liam could answer, the phone was knocked to the ground. Liam’s voice still came from the receiver: “Serena, what’s wrong? Where are you?” But the surrounding noise drowned out Liam’s urgency. Several people pushed me into the blood draw room. I couldn’t move at all. My menstrual flow has always been heavy, so I’ve always been anemic. I’ve been treated many times without obvious results. Xavier knew this clearly. He even introduced me to Chinese medicine doctors before. But when facing his aunt, he could be deaf, mute, and blind. My health in his eyes wasn’t worth a single hair on his aunt’s head. Tears flowed uncontrollably. Watching the nurse’s needle about to pierce my arm, I closed my eyes in despair. Just then, chaotic footsteps approached. Seven or eight people ran towards us simultaneously. “Who wants to draw my wife’s blood?” It was Liam.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “387529”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

When my parents divorced, Mom fought for my older sister, and Dad fought for my younger brother. I was the middle child, the one nobody wanted. Everyone bet against me, but irony has a funny way of working out. After the SATs, my sister ended up at a community college, my brother dropped out, and I? I was the state’s top scholar. Suddenly, it was my turn to be fought over. I shook off their hands, pulling two documents from my bag. “Kids who’ve been abandoned once have trust issues,” I said coolly. “So, here’s the deal—” “Whoever signs this will, leaving everything to me, gets to be the parent of the top scholar.” 1 My dad is a cop, and my mom is a surgeon. To everyone else, they have glamorous careers. But to me, they were just permanently “busy.” Especially after the divorce. Every time I asked Mom for allowance, she’d rush off, saying, “I’m saving lives, ask your dad.” When I called Dad, he’d sound exhausted, “I’m arresting bad guys, ask your mom.” They kept passing the buck, assuming the other had already paid up. In reality, I was often starving. When I was really broke, breakfast was two steamed buns—three yuan. That was my food for the day. When stomach cramps hit, I’d lay my head on the desk and tell myself to endure it. Classmates went to the cafeteria for lunch; I said I wasn’t hungry, but the truth was I had no money. There were lucky days, of course. Sometimes they’d both remember me and transfer money simultaneously. But that “luck” was random. Most of the time, I was hungry. Once, after three days without a proper meal, seeing black spots from hunger, I called them. Both rejected my calls with the “busy” excuse. That moment clarified everything. In this world, money is more reliable than love. Love disappears, gets ignored, gets forgotten. Money doesn’t. From that day on, I wanted money. Lots of it. Enough to buy the best food in the world. So I’d never have to go hungry again. 2 One day before the SAT registration fee deadline. I still couldn’t reach my parents for money. Because they were “busy.” Yet, my sister and brother just updated their social media. Sister’s post: A photo of her in a new dress, smiling brightly. Mom stood beside her, hand gently on her shoulder. They looked so alike, gentle and elegant. Caption: [Thanks Mom for the pre-exam gift, love you~] Brother’s post: On the basketball court, shooting hoops, Dad coaching him. Both wearing brand-new matching sports gear. Caption: [Dad said gotta blow off steam before the big test, can’t have too much pressure.] I stared at the photos for a long time. So they weren’t busy. They were just busy for me, the extra daughter. A familiar bitterness spread in my chest. I should have known. I was the surplus, wasn’t I? Just like the day of the divorce. In court, the judge asked about custody. Mom didn’t hesitate: “I want Grace.” She looked at my sister with adoration. “She’s sensible and obedient, just like me. She’ll go far.” Dad chimed in quickly: “I’m definitely taking Lucas.” He patted my brother’s shoulder, eyes shining with expectation. “He’s got athletic talent, he’ll follow in my footsteps and be a cop.” The judge flipped through the files, frowning. “What about the other child?” My parents froze. “Oh, right, Zoe.” Then came the hot potato game. “I already took one, can’t afford two.” “She’s a Lin, she should stay with the Lin family!” Mom argued. “Zoe’s a girl, you’re her mom, she should be with you!” “My work is too demanding, the hospital needs me, I don’t have time for two kids…” I sat in the corner, watching them fight to not take me. Finally, I broke the stalemate. “I can live alone, as long as I have living expenses.” And so began my life of solitude and hunger. Looking at the class group chat, classmates posting screenshots of their paid fees. Only I hadn’t paid. The class rep reminded me again. No fee, no SATs. I bit my lip, stomach cramping again. One bun today. My balance couldn’t even afford two. But hunger didn’t matter now. The registration fee wasn’t just about food; it was my only way out. If I couldn’t take the test, my life was over. I had to get that money. Since they ignored my calls and texts, I’d go to them. Mom’s place was closest to school. I decided to start with her. 3 Standing before that familiar yet strange door. I took a deep breath. Finger trembling, I pressed the doorbell. The door opened quickly. It was my sister, Grace. Seeing me, her face instantly filled with impatience. She turned and yelled toward the kitchen: “Mom, Zoe’s here.” Her tone dripped with disdain. She blocked the doorway, no intention of letting me in. Sounds of cooking came from the kitchen; Mom was busy. “Oh, let her in then.” Only then did Grace reluctantly move aside, leaving a crack for me to squeeze through. I walked into the living room. Grace was back on the sofa, taking up the whole thing. I sat awkwardly on a small stool in the corner. Like an unwelcome beggar. Soon, Mom came out with a bowl of soup. Milky white broth, smelling divine. My starving stomach growled immediately. “Gracie, this is bird’s nest soup with lotus seeds.” “I stewed it for three hours. Just this small bowl, very nourishing.” “You’ve been studying hard, drink it while it’s hot.” Grace took the bowl, sniffing the aroma. “Mom, you just finished a ten-hour surgery and still made soup for me? You’re too tired, you drink it.” “Silly child, Mom won’t drink. You’re Mom’s precious baby, anything for you is worth it.” They pushed the bowl back and forth. Finally, sharing it. One sip for you, one sip for me. A heartwarming scene. And me? The invisible person. Sitting three steps away, watching this mother-daughter bonding. I checked my phone. Deadline approaching. “Mom, the SAT registration fee is due soon. Can you send me the money?” As soon as I spoke, Mom’s face changed. Gentleness vanished, replaced by impatience and disgust. “Look at you, every time you come it’s for money. Like a debt collector.” “Besides money, do you know how to say anything else?” Grace chimed in: “Yeah, Zoe, can you not be so materialistic?” “Mom works so hard, and you just have your hand out.” My fingers curled into a fist, nails digging into my palm. “But I’m just asking for the registration fee, not allowance.” “It’s mandatory.” “And it’s your obligation to support me.” “Obligation?” Mom sneered. “I raised you till now, what value have you created for me?” “Just spending money, useless.” “Registration fee is over a hundred, isn’t that money? You think my money grows on trees?” Hearing this, my heart felt squeezed. I stood up slowly, eyes on the exquisite white porcelain bowl. Half a bowl of bird’s nest soup left, gleaming temptingly under the light. I saw the price tag at the pharmacy days ago. Premium bird’s nest, dozens of dollars per gram. This bowl was worth hundreds. And I was asking for a registration fee of just over a hundred. She’d spend hundreds on soup for Grace. But grudged a hundred for my future. “Money grows on trees”? What a joke. All my grievances exploded in that moment. I grabbed the soup bowl. “Zoe, what are you doing?” I didn’t answer. I smashed the bowl on the floor. The crash echoed in the living room. Soup splattered everywhere. “Are you crazy?” Mom stared, wide-eyed in disbelief. Slap! A loud slap landed on my left cheek. Burning pain spread instantly. But I didn’t retreat. I looked her in the eye. “Give me the registration fee.” “You wretched girl!” Mom trembled with rage. “You dare act wild here over a registration fee?” I repeated: “I want the registration fee.” Infuriated by my attitude, she grabbed her phone with shaking hands. Beep. The transfer notification sounded. She threw the phone onto the sofa. “Take the money and get out. Don’t disturb Grace’s studying.” I checked the amount. Fifty-something. Exactly half the fee. “Why only half?” Mom sneered. “I’m divorced, not widowed. The court ruling said your dad and I split your costs 50/50.” “Go ask your dad for the rest.” She pointed at the door. Get out. The broken porcelain glittered coldly on the floor. Just like my heart. Cold. Grace sat on the sofa, watching coldly. A smirk played on her lips. Fine. At least I got half. Though only fifty-something, it was better than nothing. For the other half, I had to find Dad. 4 Leaving Mom’s, my cheek still throbbed. But I couldn’t care less. Half the fee was still missing. Dad lived across the city. Two hours by bus. His door was ajar. I pushed it open gently. Quiet living room. Only the flickering light of the TV. Dad was curled on the sofa watching a kung fu movie. Wearing loungewear, messy hair, looking exhausted. Strangely, the TV was muted. He didn’t look up until I stood in front of him, blocking the screen. “Oh, Zoe, you’re here.” “Why is it muted?” I asked. Dad pointed to Lucas’s room: “Lucas is doing homework. Can’t disturb him.” I nodded, sitting on the other end of the sofa. Jackie Chan was fighting on screen, silent punches and kicks looking comical. Dad glanced at me, gaze fixing on my left cheek. “What happened to your face?” “Who hit you?” Dad’s face shifted from fatigue to anger. “Went to ask Mom for the registration fee, and she…” Before I finished, Dad stood up, dialing his phone. “Hello, Zhang Yulan, are you crazy?” As soon as it connected, Dad roared: “You hit Zoe? She’s just a kid, how could you?” Mom’s shrill voice came from the other end. Couldn’t hear the words, but she was yelling too. “What do you mean I didn’t fulfill my duty as a father?” Dad got louder. “What kind of mother are you? Won’t even pay the kid’s registration fee?” “You have the nerve to lecture me? Look how you spoiled Grace!” “At least our Lucas is sensible, unlike your…” The argument escalated. Tension filled the living room. Lucas ran out of his room: “Dad, what are you arguing about? So loud.” “Nothing, go back to your homework.” Dad covered the mic, voice instantly gentle. But Lucas heard. “Dad, is that woman yelling at you again?” Hostility filled his voice. “That woman” was said with heavy emphasis. Grace’s screech came through the phone: “Lin Youbao (Lucas), what ‘that woman’? That’s your mother! Where are your manners?” Lucas grabbed the phone, putting it on speaker. “Lin Enci (Grace), who do you think you are? A super-senior retaking 12th grade has no right to lecture me!” “Besides, Dad divorced her, she’s not my mom anymore!” Grace’s voice pitched up. “You little brat! Grades so bad you have to rely on sports to get into college, and you dare bark at me?” Lucas wasn’t backing down. “So what if I’m an athlete? Unlike some people still in high school at 20!” “I skipped a grade, getting into college at seventeen.” They argued red-faced, wishing to stomp the other into the ground. And I, the extra daughter, sat there like an outsider, watching a war started because of me. What a ridiculous family. Divorced parents, each spoiling their favorite, treating the other’s child like an enemy. Sister and brother despising each other, raised in comparison, now enemies. This war wasn’t for me. They argued to prove their parenting was superior. To prove their chosen child was better. Finally, like a pact, both sister and brother declared they would crush the exam. “I’ll score higher than you, make Mom proud!” “Lol, I have extra points for sports, I’ll beat you by ten points easy. Glory for Dad!” Both eyes burning with competitiveness. Hanging up, Lucas turned to Dad for validation. “Dad, going back to study.” “I’ll definitely beat that repeater Grace, make you proud!” Dad beamed with satisfaction. “Good son, Dad believes in you!” “You have talent and drive, you’ll get into a great college.” Encouraged, Lucas strutted back to his room. The living room fell silent. Dad finally remembered I was there. He turned to me, expression flattening instantly. No gentleness like for Lucas, no anger like for Grace. Just plain, perfunctory. “Right, you came for the registration fee.” I watched him tap his phone. “Sent the other half.” I checked. Exact amount. Not a penny more. “Getting late. Be safe on the way back.” With that, he sat back down. Resumed his silent movie. “Okay, I’m leaving.” I whispered, turning to the door. No sound behind me. No “stay,” no “careful,” not even a “bye.” I closed the door gently, standing in the dim hallway. The sensor light flickered on, blinding white. I touched my throbbing cheek. Doesn’t matter. I have the money.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “387528”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

I’m the top dog trainer in the business, hired by a CEO’s wife to “train” her son. “We’re away on business, so my son will let you in.” When the door opened, I was dumbfounded. Whose “child” is 6’3″ with an eight-pack? Suddenly, a bullet screen floated above my head: [This nanny is so pitiful. Killed by the male lead two days into the job.] [If the male lead doesn’t turn dark, how can the female lead’s ‘Little Miss Sunshine’ power shine?] After training him for a month, I took the money and left. The young master swore he’d never forgive me. But when we met again, he pressed against me aggressively: “Sister, aren’t you going to feed me? Your puppy is starving.” 1 Ethan Ye, the son of a top CEO in the capital, wasn’t eating, sleeping, or talking. He had self-destructive tendencies, and no expert could fix him. Hearing I had a way with dogs, Mrs. Ye decided to try anything. Her assistant found me, offering five million dollars for the job. I needed money urgently, so I agreed without hesitation. “We’ve hired many experts before, but the child is too naughty and drives them away in a few days.” “It’s okay, ma’am. I can try.” “We’re away on business recently. The child will let you in. Sorry for the trouble, Miss Du.” I went to the villa area as agreed. I knocked for half an hour before anyone answered. The door opened, and I was dumbfounded. Whose “child” is 6’3″ with an eight-pack? Before I could appreciate the view, a bullet screen appeared above my head: [This nanny is so pitiful. Killed by the male lead two days into the job.] [If the male lead doesn’t turn dark, how can the female lead’s ‘Little Miss Sunshine’ power shine?] Nanny? Are they talking about me? Is this a novel world, and I’m going to be killed by Ethan Ye in two days? I wasn’t having it. Who do they think I am? Running wasn’t an option. The aggressive dogs I’ve trained could line up from here to France. Besides, Mrs. Ye offered too much money. Enough for me to take a gamble. 2 [Bet five cents this woman won’t survive tonight.] [Bet she goes offline directly. Fast forward to Little Miss Sunshine’s entrance, thanks!] Ignoring the comments, I sat opposite Ethan. He was curled up on the sofa gaming, dark circles under his eyes, looking like he hadn’t slept for days. “Hello, your mother asked me to take care of you. Let me know what you like to eat.” He didn’t look up: “Scram. Don’t annoy me. Another person in the house means I have to wear clothes.” Ugh, difficult indeed. “It’s okay,” I smiled professionally, “Actually, you don’t have to wear anything…” Ethan’s hand shook, and his game character died instantly. “Which agency are you from? My mom hired someone this unprofessional?” He was speechless. “I’m not a nanny.” “Then what do you do, master?” “Dog trainer.” … The air froze for three seconds. “Fuck,” he jumped up, face red with anger, “Taking me for a dog?” “No,” I looked at him seriously for a moment, “You’re not as well-behaved as a dog.” At least dogs at home don’t curse. He stormed off, slamming his bedroom door, skipping dinner. The bullet screen exploded: [Damn, the young master’s ears are red! This woman has something.] [Shippers shut up! This woman is annoying. Male lead, make her scram!] I watched them argue for a while, then reheated dinner. This mansion was too empty and quiet; hearing a few barks was better than nothing. I carried the tray upstairs, straight to his room. The lock had been removed, leaving a black hole. A gentle push opened it. Ethan was boxing inside, bare-handed. His knuckles were bloody from the nylon sandbag. Seeing me enter, he was impatient. “Get out.” I ignored him, putting the food on the table: “Refuel? Afraid you’ll be beaten to death by air.” He finally stopped, mocking me: “Entering without knocking? Aren’t you afraid I’m doing something shameful?” “Your door is broken. Does knocking make a difference?” Anyone can roast. Whoever gets triggered loses. Perhaps poking a sore spot, Ethan froze, then bang, locked himself in the bathroom. “Scram, and take your food.” 3 Not eating? Easy fix. I hid all the snacks in the house, cooked at fixed times, and removed the bowl if he didn’t eat on time. [She dares starve our young master? Little Miss Sunshine feeds him mouth-to-mouth.] [Evil woman has a death wish? Waiting for the young master to turn dark and stab her.] [Actually, I don’t want him to turn dark… but the supporting female character definitely deserves to die.] After a few days, forget the comments, even I was scared. Scared of starving Ethan to death. Lunchtime again. I cooked and knocked on the door. “Let’s talk, okay?” “Not eating.” His voice was weak. “I can fix locks. If you eat properly, I’ll fix your door lock.” Silence inside, then a sneer: “You fix it today, my mom removes it tomorrow. Is this game fun?” “I have my ways, as long as you eat.” I went downstairs to wait. Mealtime was almost over, and he hadn’t come down. Twenty minutes later, I was about to give up. The door opened suddenly. Ethan, in loose pajamas, came down, sat opposite me reluctantly, and started shoveling rice. ! I was stunned. Not a dream, right? He looked so obedient eating, like my old Alaskan Malamute. Professional habit kicking in, I reached out and rubbed his head: “Good boy.” Ethan froze, ears turning blood-red upon realizing what happened. “Are you sick?!” He threw the bowl and sulked on the sofa. I regretted it instantly. Doomed. He probably won’t eat my cooking again. After a while, just as I was about to clear the table, he suddenly sat back down and started eating. Head buried low, occasionally leaning towards my hand. Bullet screen spam: [No way, is he asking for head pats?] [Side character, did you quit drugs? How can you resist petting him?] [Young Master: Angry, but want pets.jpg] Wait, pet what? I was confused. Ethan’s behavior was profound, so I didn’t dare move. Predictably, he got angry again, dropped a “Tastes awful,” and left. 4 Ethan ate on time for days. Mrs. Ye was delighted and agreed to my request to fix the lock. After the locksmith installed it, I gave the key to Ethan. “See? I keep my word!” He sized me up: “Why help me?” “For the five million.” … Click! Locked from the inside. Hard to please. Ethan wasn’t starving anymore, so I tackled his insomnia. Back at the kennel, a Beagle barked all night. We took turns running it up the mountain to chase rats. It slept like a log afterward. But Ethan isn’t a small animal. I can’t tie him up and drag him out. Amidst the bullet screen chatter, the doorbell rang. A girl in a floral dress, sweetly sickening, stood there. “Hello Auntie, I’m Chloe Cheng, Ethan’s childhood sweetheart!” [Ahhh, Little Miss Sunshine is here! Our young master is saved.] [Side character die quick, don’t block the camera!] Chloe made herself at home: “If Brother Ethan isn’t eating, Auntie can cook for me!” She skipped upstairs but shrieked seeing the new lock. “How could you change his lock,” Chloe gasped, “People like him can’t have closed doors. Are you professional?” “If something happens inside, you can’t pay for it in several lifetimes.” The comments defended Chloe: [Ahhh, Sister Bao protecting her husband. The young master is unstable; this nanny is crazy.] [Did the story change? In the intro, the heroine walks in on the young master bathing because the door was broken.] [Thanks upstairs. Side character ruined the famous scene. I’m furious.] Seriously? Prolonged privacy invasion easily destroys a sense of security. Before I could speak, Chloe teared up: “Brother Ethan is so pitiful. Luckily I’m here.” She pulled out her phone: “I’ll tell Auntie Ye to find a new nanny. Pack your things and resign.” “Not me…” I wanted to explain. If she kicks me out now, I lose the final payment. “You have no right to make her leave.” Ethan suddenly opened the door, hair dripping wet. “And she’s not Auntie. She’s Sister.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “387527”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

My aunt’s favorite pastime? Playing the victim and sowing discord. Every day, she’d badmouth my mom to anyone who would listen, but in front of my dad, she was a fragile, bullied little flower. Eventually, her manipulation drove my parents to divorce. Young and naive, I believed her lies. I grew to hate my mom, becoming a brat who couldn’t tell right from wrong under her influence. Meanwhile, she raised her own daughter to be gentle, elegant, and well-educated. Her daughter graduated from a top university abroad and became a famous pianist. When I opened my eyes again, I was back on my 8th birthday. An uninvited guest arrived: my mom. My aunt tugged at my sleeve, whispering, “Your cheap mom is here. You know what to say, right?” 1 “Lynn, what’s wrong?” My mom asked, looking at me with uncertainty. The relatives around us fell silent. Everyone knew how much I loathed my mom since the divorce. I snapped back to reality, seeing the gift my mom held. Her eyes were full of love and worry. I clenched my fists, trying my hardest not to cry. My aunt seized the moment to hug me. “What could be wrong? Don’t you know? You’ve been out enjoying yourself for years. How many times have you visited the child?” She looked down at me, comforting: “Don’t be scared, sweetie. Just say whatever comes to mind!” Her expression was gentle, but her eyes held malice and anticipation. In this moment, I finally realized this wasn’t a dream. I had been reborn. After her divorce, my aunt had nowhere to go, so she brought her daughter to live with us. Soon after, my dad was misunderstood as cheating, and my mom left in anger. But somehow, under my aunt’s “mediation,” the conflict deepened, leading to their divorce. My aunt started badmouthing my mom daily. She said my mom didn’t want me anymore, abandoning us to have a son with some other man. She claimed my mom only came back to trick my dad out of money to raise her “bastard” and tried to kick my aunt out multiple times. She played the victim to brainwash me, while behind my back, she found excuses to prevent me from seeing my mom. Over time, I grew to hate my mom and pity my aunt. Thinking back, my mom was the pitiful one. Adopted and treated as cheap labor since childhood. At 18, her adoptive father tried to marry her off to a 70-year-old man. Luckily, he passed away, and she seized the chance to apply for college and escape the village. Meeting my dad in college was her first breath of fresh air. I was her only blood relative in this world. Yet, manipulated by my aunt, I broke her heart time and again. Thinking of this, my blood boiled. Suppressing my disgust, I looked my aunt in the eye and sneered: “Auntie, wasn’t it you who wouldn’t let Mom see me?” 2 My voice was childish but clear, my expression serious. The relatives at the table were surprised, especially Grandpa. Everyone was used to me resisting my mom; no one expected this reaction. In my past life, my mom came to give me a birthday gift. Incited by my aunt, I smashed the crystal ball she gave me and screamed, “You shameless woman, running off with men! Get out of my house! Don’t bully my aunt!” That was the last time my mom came to see me. Soon after, my dad was diagnosed with lung cancer and passed away. My aunt naturally became my guardian. She spoiled me rotten, taught me to be unreasonable, lazy, and unable to distinguish good from bad. She encouraged me to drop out for “love,” leading me to get pregnant before 18 and marry a divorced man in his 30s. Meanwhile, she carefully cultivated her own daughter, teaching her to be diligent and refined. When my husband beat me until I hemorrhaged, I begged my aunt for $200 to save the baby. The aunt who claimed to love me most sneered, “Forget $200, you won’t get $20.” I was beaten to death by my husband. It was the mom I had hurt so deeply who held my body, trying to get justice. But my aunt hypocritically advised, “Let it go. She was born bad. She’s dead, you’re free.” She turned around and signed a settlement letter, leading to my mom being stabbed to death on the street by my resentful husband. Reborn, I will never be my aunt’s tool again. In this life, I will make her pay! 3 “I didn’t! You’re lying…” My aunt froze, eyes wide with shock and embarrassment. Before she could react, I continued in an innocent tone. “You said Mom would only regret leaving if she saw me angry, and only then would she want to remarry Dad.” “But Auntie, I haven’t seen Mom in so long. I really missed her. Could I not throw a tantrum this time?” The room exploded. Dad stood up abruptly. “Faye, what nonsense are you telling the child? Is this how you raise Lynn?” My aunt’s face turned pale, lips trembling. “No, I never said that. Lynn, what’s wrong with you? When did Auntie say that?” I put on a confused face and counted on my fingers: “This morning, yesterday, the day before… you say it every day.” “Oh no, I lost count. Auntie, don’t be mad at me for being dumb.” I carefully tugged at her sleeve, looking up at her. Her expression was a mix of anger and anxiety, but she couldn’t explode in front of the relatives. “How could I? Lynn is smart, but you can’t lie!” She squatted down, staring at me intently. “Good Lynn, be brave and admit when you lie, or Auntie won’t like you anymore.” I quickly covered my mouth. “Auntie, I was wrong!” A triumphant look appeared on her face. Before she could speak, I smiled fawningly. “I admitted my mistake. So Auntie, you still have to take me to the reservoir to play!” “Reservoir?!” Mom and Dad screamed in unison. “Lynn is only 8! Taking her to a reservoir? Are you crazy?” My mom was furious. “Faye, this is outrageous!” Even Grandpa scolded her. “You’re her aunt! How could you do such a thing?” My aunt was scared silly, stammering an explanation. “…It was Lynn who insisted on swimming. I couldn’t handle her tantrum…” “Besides, she took swimming lessons. She’ll be fine.” Ridiculous. I never threw a tantrum; she took me herself. Thankfully, my mom wasn’t buying it. She gritted her teeth at my aunt: “If she wants to go, you take her? If she told you to eat shit, would you eat it?” “My daughter survived by luck. Why didn’t you take your daughter?” My aunt panicked and reached for me. But being small, I dodged her, crawled under the table, and threw myself into my mom’s arms. “Mommy, I’m scared!” Mom hugged me tight immediately, glaring at my aunt. “What do you want?” Back in my mom’s embrace, I almost cried. In the past life, you protected me. This time, I’ll protect you. 4 My aunt put on her victim face, looking ready to cry. “Brother, during the two years you were fighting, who took her to the dentist? Me!” “I treat her so well, and she lies and frames me. What an ungrateful brat!” “Fine! If you don’t believe me, I’ll leave!” She wiped a tear, grabbed her daughter, Penny, and made to leave. Now my dad couldn’t sit still. “Stop it! We’re family, why make such a fuss? Eat first, we’ll talk later!” My aunt took the out, throwing herself into my dad’s arms and wailing. The scene was incredibly awkward. My mom sneered. “Some family. Treating my Lynn like this? Since that’s the case, I’m taking Lynn. I won’t disturb your ‘family unity’.” Dad scratched his head in frustration. “Helen, drop it. Everyone makes mistakes.” Mom ignored him, looking down gently to ask if I wanted to go with her. She didn’t force me when I stayed silent. instead, she patted my head, told me to take care, and to call her if I missed her. Watching her leave, I apologized silently. I want to! Of course I want to! But not now. My aunt is still squatting in my house. How can I hand over my things to her? My aunt cried until midnight, with my dad comforting her. Seeing me, she looked almost manic. “Why did you lie? Auntie is so good to you, why?” Dad also signaled for me to apologize. “Anyway, your aunt hasn’t had it easy these two years. You shouldn’t have embarrassed her publicly.” I didn’t expect my dad to not only gloss over her manipulation but demand an apology. He didn’t know the sister he cherished had been eyeing his assets for a long time. In my past life, he didn’t die of lung cancer.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “387526”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

I was the most invisible little security guard in the company. So ordinary that no one even knew my name. But no one could have guessed, I took this job just to cover up my real identity— A modern-day “corpse walker.” By day, I help the living clean up their messes. By night, I help the dead continue their lineage. I originally planned to retire after saving up 100 million. But that night, I received a huge order worth 50 million. 1 Seeing that string of zeros, I bounced off the bed like a rocket, sleep instantly forgotten. Fifty million! After this job, I could retire on the spot and lie flat forever. Thinking of this, I happily prepared to accept the order. But the moment I was about to press confirm, reason reclaimed my brain. When things are too good to be true, there’s usually a catch. This price, unreasonably higher than the market rate by tenfold, definitely smelled fishy. With a cautious attitude, I asked a few detailed questions. The other side replied quickly. “The situation here is a bit special. The deceased’s family loves their daughter dearly and can’t bear to move the body.” “So, you need to leave an heir for the deceased at the scene of death first. Do the deed, then clean up.” I frowned and replied: “I don’t do risky jobs.” I’ve worked hard for years to save up tens of millions. I didn’t want to lose everything before I could even enjoy it. Seeing my reluctance, the other side got anxious. After hesitating for less than three minutes, they explained their true intent. 2 He told me the deceased was Stella He, the only daughter of the richest man in the capital circle. Stella committed suicide by slitting her wrists at home because of love troubles. The death scene was particularly gruesome. Mrs. He, who always doted on her daughter the most, fainted just by looking inside. Mr. He was worried that news would affect the company’s stock price. He was also worried that there would be no one to inherit the family business. So he thought of finding me to solve this trouble. “Of course, this money isn’t for nothing.” “Besides guaranteeing a 100% success rate, you also have to accept a body search and guarantee not to leak any information.” I thought quickly. In our line of work, reputation is paramount. Followed by confidentiality. Since I planned to retire right after this job anyway, The fewer people who knew about this, the better. Thinking of this, I agreed immediately. The He family truly lived up to their reputation as the richest. Less than half an hour after confirming the order, A helicopter to pick me up landed on the lawn downstairs. Arriving at the He residence, I was blinded by the magnificent villa. I couldn’t help calculating in my mind. With my security guard salary of 3,500 a month, I couldn’t afford such a luxurious house even if I didn’t eat or drink for several lifetimes. Just as I was thinking, Mrs. He’s crying interrupted my thoughts. Looking up. The Western-style living room was decorated with traditional Chinese wedding ornaments. A big red “Double Happiness” character was pasted on a pitch-black coffin. 3 In this silent late night, it appeared especially eerie and terrifying. Mr. He burst into tears as soon as he saw me. “Master, you must help. We worked hard for half our lives and only have this one daughter.” “Now the white-haired are sending off the black-haired. If there’s nothing left to hope for, her mother and I really don’t want to live anymore…” The old man in front of me had graying temples and a haggard face. He looked like a completely different person from the spirited President He on TV. I remembered reports about him. Lost his father young, started from scratch. Now losing his child in old age, with no successor. Truly tragic. Seeing the couple’s unbearable grief, I couldn’t help sighing in my heart. The rich also have troubles money can’t solve. Thinking this, my attitude softened a lot. “How about this? Add another five million, and I’ll do my best to get you fraternal twins.” Mr. He paused, then agreed joyfully. After receiving half the deposit, I asked for Stella’s birth date and time as per custom. Just as I was about to draw the talisman, I froze. This birth date… there’s a problem. 4 I looked at it again and again. I refused to accept the answer in my heart. I could only ask the He family to take me to Stella’s room first. Mrs. He fainted again crying as soon as she saw the dried bloodstains on the wall at the door. Mr. He barely maintained his composure. But tears still rolled down his cheeks uncontrollably. “Master, don’t be offended.” “Stella, she really… died too tragically…” I glanced into the room. Stella lay stiffly on the bed. The dim light obscured her face. But it illuminated the shocking bloodstains in the room. Arterial blood can spray more than two meters high. Those million-dollar vases and crystal chandeliers in the room were all splattered with blood. Looking up, it was a sea of crimson. Doing the deed in such an environment was truly creepy. No wonder the He family offered a high price of fifty million directly. I glanced around briefly and frowned. “How can I work with the room in this state? Have to add money.” “Tell you what, I won’t make it hard for you. Add another five million, making it sixty million total. A lucky number.” Mr. He looked at me with a hint of suspicion in his eyes. “Master is young but quite skilled.” “It’s just… a bit different from the corpse walkers in my impression.” Traditional corpse walkers transport bodies to let the souls rest in peace. But times have changed too fast, and transportation methods have become diverse.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “387525”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

I logged into the wrong alt account on an e-sports variety show and received a message from my gaming “CP” (Couple Partner). [Bad girl, you finally logged on?] [Only remembered me when you wanted to rank up in the new season?] [Fine, call me ‘Oppa’ and I’ll carry you.] [Ignoring me? Found another wild man? Who is he?] [Does he have more National Badges than me? Is his Peak Tournament score higher than mine? Has he won the National Championship?] Sharp-eyed netizens recognized the sender as the recently retired pro player, Silas Lin, and let out a collective screech. Me: Who is Silas Lin? Isn’t my gaming CP a 6’1″, eight-pack college jock? 1 Because my skills in Honor of Kings improved by leaps and bounds, my manager, Wendy, packed me up and threw me onto the e-sports variety show Clash of Kings. During the live broadcast, the host asked about my most memorable gaming experience. I blurted out: “Once, I got destroyed in a 1v1 and cried.” Not only was the live audience stunned, but the bullet screen (live comments) was filled with question marks. [Who?! Who dared to make my baby girl cry!] [Hahahaha, Xinyi is so honest.] [Does he know he made the top star Xinyi Jiang cry?] Of course he didn’t know, because I lied and told him I was a college student. At that time, I was filming at A University. During a break in the middle of the night, I wanted a quick game. I picked Xiao Qiao, but encountered an opposing Lanling Wang who not only ganked me into a 0/20 record but chased me into the fountain to kill me. After the game, seeing my credit score drop due to eight reports, I was furious. So I angrily added Lanling Wang as a friend and challenged him: [Dare to 1v1?] The result of overestimating myself was a crushing defeat. After my crystal exploded, the crew told me to prepare early; the next scene was a crying scene. Thinking about working hard until 3 AM only to slack off with a game and lose so miserably, I felt more and more aggrieved and burst into tears. So when Lanling Wang clicked into my team lobby, he heard me wailing, “What a trash game, trash Lanling Wang, I’m gonna kill you all.” That crying scene was my best performance. One take, the director called it professional, and I won Best Actress for that role. The next day when I opened the game, I received his team invite. As soon as I entered the room, I heard his slightly apologetic voice: “Sorry about yesterday. To make up for it, I’ll carry you to rank up.” While playing, the noisy background noise caught his attention: “Are you still in school?” I glanced at the script by my hand, “Yeah, junior year.” 2 The host’s voice pulled me back from my thoughts: “The production team has everyone’s phones and logged into your game accounts. Let’s take a look at everyone’s game profile one by one.” My rival, Clara Lu’s game account interface was displayed on the big screen. King rank every season, City Badges for Yao, Cai Wenji, and Angela—pretty impressive so far. Until the host, stirring up trouble, clicked into her game relationships. The “BFF” and “Bestie” slots were filled with male accounts. The bullet screen boiled over: [So many ‘oppas’.] [What are you saying? Can’t she play games with guys?] [Only one boyfriend, but many ‘brothers’.] [It’s not dating, what’s wrong with just bonding?] I was happily eating popcorn on the side, secretly glad I had cleared the intimate relationships on my account in advance. Host: “I heard Xinyi has become very skilled recently, reaching King rank in five days solo last season. Let’s see what secrets are on her account.” The big screen quickly switched to my account profile. Seeing the avatar, I was confused. Why is it my alt account? [If I’m not mistaken, that’s a couple avatar, right?] [No way, no way, Xinyi is online dating?] [You can use couple avatars alone, I do it myself.] I looked off-stage at my manager, Wendy. She was waving a phone that looked exactly like the one in the host’s hand. Damn, wrong phone. These fruit phones, prices go up every generation, but they look the same. I’m changing it after the show! Watching the host’s finger gradually move towards [Intimate Relationships], it seemed there was no way to stop him other than rushing over and biting his finger off. While I was gritting my teeth preparing to pounce, a message popping up in the chat channel interrupted the host. GingerLover: [Bad girl, you finally logged on?] 3 Seeing no reply, the other party sent several more messages: [Only remembered me when you wanted to rank up in the new season?] [Fine, call me ‘Oppa’ and I’ll carry you.] [Ignoring me? Found another wild man? Who is he?] [Does he have more National Badges than me? Is his Peak Tournament score higher than mine? Has he won the National Championship? Did he ever make you cry in a 1v1?] I turned my head mechanically, looking at the bullet screen with the resignation of death. [?????] [Good boy, so it was you.] [Our girl is in love!!!] [Wait, I just dug up this guy’s account, he seems to be Silas Lin.] [The retired e-sports god Silas Lin? And Xinyi? E-sports god x Top star, power couple, I ship it.] I was stunned. Silas Lin? Who is that? My gaming CP was clearly just an ordinary 6’1″, eight-pack, handsome college student. The host, enjoying the drama, said, “It seems Xinyi and Silas have quite a special relationship.” Under Wendy’s murderous gaze, I swallowed hard, “Actually, it’s a misunderstanding.” “We broke up long ago, just haven’t had time to unbind the CP.” Instantly, the bullet screen exploded. [Coming from Silas’s stream next door.] [Brother Silas is going crazy on stream.] [Silas is so pitiful hahaha, dumped on live TV.] [I just started shipping, and you feed me glass shards?] [Liar, tell me it’s fake!] It was true. The day after reaching King rank on my alt, I sent him a breakup message and never logged on again. 4 #Xinyi Jiang Silas Lin CP #Xinyi Jiang Bad Woman #Silas Lin Dumped on Live Stream #Xinyi Jiang Alt Account #Clash of Kings Xinyi My manager Wendy tapped her phone with a cold face, “The last time you dominated the trending list was when you won Best Actress, right?” I didn’t dare look, lowering my head and picking at my fingers, whispering: “I just got heartbroken. The company won’t ask for breach of contract fees, right? That would be too pitiful. You know, I left my mom when I was young…” “Shut up.” I started as a child star. After my mom passed away, I spent most of my time with my manager. Since Aunt Nan, who used to manage me, was promoted to Vice President, Wendy has been managing me. In recent years, whenever I made a mistake, as long as I acted pitiful, she would forgive me eight times out of ten. Late at night, I clicked into Silas’s live stream. He was fiercely ganking the opposing Xiao Qiao with Lanling Wang. Even without seeing his face, I could feel his bloodlust. [Brother Silas turned dark for love.] [The former jungle king has become a bush camper.] [Isn’t Xinyi a classic ‘rank-up bitch’? Breaks up after hitting King.] [Don’t blindly hate. I’ve seen Xinyi’s main account; she ranks up solo. Her Zhu Bajie is top-tier.] [Hahahaha, dying. Which female star mains Zhu Bajie?] That’s right, my best hero is Zhu Bajie (Piggie). When I duo-queued with Silas for a few days, he pointed out my problem: “You’re not suitable for mages. Too stubborn and won’t accept defeat. Try the EXP lane.” So, this flower-like girl put down Xiao Qiao’s fan, picked up Piggie’s rake, and braved the EXP lane. Silas was puzzled: “Why Piggie?” Me: “Because his skill 1 stuns, skill 2 wall-slams (kabedon), skill 3 pens them in. Looks just like a domineering CEO forcing love on the heroine in novels.” Silas: ?

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “387524”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

To attend the same college as my rich second-generation boyfriend, I filled my college entrance exam answer sheet with wrong answers. But half an hour before the exam ended, several bullet screen comments (danmu) suddenly appeared before my eyes. [This idiot supporting character. She has the brains for an Ivy League school but insists on playing the ‘devoted to community college’ role. Did a donkey kick her in the head?] [She really latched onto the male lead, huh? Too bad he’s just been using her for amusement from start to finish. Does she really think she has a shot at being a wealthy young mistress?] [Just a gold digger. If she knew she isn’t even in Caleb’s future plans, would she go crazy on the spot?] [Caleb must be tired pretending to be a slacker. He’s really going all out just to win a bet.] My hand holding the eraser paused. Then, I erased all the wrong answers on the answer sheet. 1 After writing the last word of my essay, I looked up at the clock. Thirty minutes left until the exam ended. This was a high-scoring essay, smooth and profound. Under normal circumstances, it would deserve a near-perfect score. But right now, it was like gold thrown into a dumpster— Because I had carefully filled in wrong answers for all the multiple-choice questions on this exam, and deliberately left one-third of the subjective questions blank. Yes, I was intentionally tanking my score. For Caleb. The rich second-generation boyfriend who secretly held my hand under the desk during evening study sessions and used his deep voice to describe “simple happiness in an ordinary college.” He said he was dumb and could only scrape into a second-tier college even if he tried his best. He said he couldn’t live without me, that campus life would be meaningless without me. He even imagined wedding cannons and white veils with me, as if happiness was within reach as long as we settled for mediocrity. So I played along, sinking with him, personally strangling the opportunity I had earned through ten years of hard study. But just as I was about to cap my pen and pack up, a light flashed before my eyes, and several lines of semi-transparent text floated across my answer sheet like bullet screen comments on a video. [This idiot supporting character. She has the brains for an Ivy League school but insists on playing the ‘devoted to community college’ role. Did a donkey kick her in the head?] My breath hitched, and I froze. Hallucination? Or hysteria from exam stress? Before I could sort out my thoughts, the second and third lines followed, dripping with sharper sarcasm: [She really latched onto the male lead, huh? Too bad he’s just been using her for amusement from start to finish. Does she really think she has a shot at being a wealthy young mistress?] [Just a gold digger. If she knew she isn’t even in Caleb’s future plans, would she go crazy on the spot?] [Caleb must be tired pretending to be a slacker. He’s really going all out just to win a bet.] Amusement? Bet? Pretending to be a slacker? My mind went blank for a second. Then, Caleb’s deeply affectionate eyes surfaced before me, twisted, and finally turned into the wrong options on the answer sheet in front of me. I looked up in confusion, staring at the powerful conclusion of my essay, “A bright future,” and actually started to hesitate. Even if these words were fake, was I really going to hand over my last card to Caleb with both hands? But as soon as I closed my eyes, I could recall Caleb standing before me with a huge bouquet of roses, swearing, “Tingting, I will definitely marry you.” Twenty-five minutes left. Time was tight, allowing no room for thought or verification. I gripped the eraser in my hand without hesitation and began to scrub the answer sheet furiously. Twenty-five minutes was enough to change all the multiple-choice answers and flesh out the key points for the subjective questions. … The bell finally rang. The answer sheets were collected in order, but the text on the desk continued to scroll. [What is the supporting character doing? Cold feet at the last minute? Too late.] [She’s erasing hard, but unfortunately, life doesn’t have an eraser. Her brain must be rusty after all these years.] [Exactly. Caleb burns the midnight oil studying after hanging out with her. How could a love-struck fool like her possibly outscore him?] I stopped my trembling hands. Looking at these comments again, my eyes turned cold. How did they know that Caleb wasn’t the only one burning the midnight oil? 2 It’s true that I like Caleb. But my feelings for him are seven parts affection, three parts rationality. After all, the day I met Caleb, I had just ranked first in the city and was being kicked out of my house. “First in the city? Xie Ting, are you crazy? How much money did you steal from home to pay tuition?!” My mom screamed, spit flying onto my face. “I earned it from part-time jobs.” I clutched the report card, knuckles white. “That little money is useless! The neighbor Old Wang’s daughter married a factory owner before finishing high school. Now she wears gold and silver and owns three houses! And you? Did reading books turn into gold for you?” My dad squatted in the corner smoking, the cheap tobacco smoke hiding his expression. “Get out! You’re an eyesore! Don’t stand here blocking the way.” Bang! The heavy slam of the security door triggered the hallway lights. I was swept out like trash, without mercy. Nowhere to go, didn’t even grab a coat. The report card I was so proud of became waste paper in an instant. —Turns out my hard work, my grades, were worthless. Yet I counted on them to give me a way out. How ridiculous. Caleb appeared at that moment. When I was nearly frozen numb, piercing headlights cut through the darkness. Caleb sat in the back seat of a Porsche, wearing a well-tailored cashmere coat, a dark scarf highlighting his cold, fair skin. “Student,” he said, his voice gentle, “Aren’t you cold?” I looked at him. I watched him drape an expensive scarf over me, saw the inherent ease and superiority that money piled up around him, and contrasted it with my own wretched state. A strong, almost instinctive thought grew wildly. Money. Power. Status. Only by grasping these would my words matter. So, I reached out to Caleb. He was the only driftwood I could see, the closest one to me as I drowned. What happened next followed naturally. He took me to his unused luxury apartment, listened to my grievances, and built a perfect future for me with expensive gifts and sweet words—a blueprint of happiness where I didn’t need to be excellent, just needed to be by his side to have everything. He said his parents didn’t want a daughter-in-law who was too smart, just virtuous enough. And my parents came to the door with fawning smiles and fruit baskets, praising my ability and vision. I could finally be their “daughter” again, bringing more glory to their faces than Old Wang’s daughter next door. Yes, I love Caleb. I love his money, his face, his family background, and the vanity of being his girlfriend that allowed me to crush my past. To marry him, of course I could give up these worthless grades. However, people who have been abandoned don’t gain a sense of security so easily. The despair of the day I met him was like a thorn, stuck deep in my heart. —I was afraid he would break his promise. Caleb’s world was cold and flashy. His kindness was too perfect, too selfless. His friends all looked at me with pity that said “you’ll be dumped sooner or later.” Behind him, there were whispers that “Xie Ting isn’t worthy.” The speaker might not mean it, but the listener takes it to heart. This fear followed me like a shadow during this seemingly stable year. So, in the late nights when I seemed to have given up, I devoured problem sets on scratch paper again and again, comforting myself with full marks on practice tests that I had a trump card. A card I might not need, but must have. Just like in the exam hall, those subjective questions I left blank were the easiest to fill, and the multiple-choice questions were the easiest to change. Was it worth trading a temporary future for a backer? For me, yes. As long as we married, I could share the family assets. Giving up these four years might get me things I couldn’t get with years of hard work. But if it was traded for a false promise and a result of ridicule… Then it wasn’t worth it. 3 Coming out of the exam hall, I saw Caleb immediately. He leaned against that flashy Porsche, his posture lazy and noble. A few girls passing by wanted to strike up a conversation but were deterred by his distant gaze. Standing next to him was his childhood friend, Zhao Lin. They chatted enthusiastically, completely unaware of me submerged in the crowd. “Awesome, bro! A gentleman isn’t afraid to wait!” Zhao Lin’s face was full of schadenfreude. “Once the admission notices come out, you can completely escape this misery.” I paused. From a short distance, I heard Caleb’s voice. —Unlike usual, with his back to me, his tone was full of contempt. “Soon. Just thinking about not having to act in front of that pretentiously noble face makes me feel comfortable all over.” Zhao Lin asked again: “When the time comes, our Young Master Zhou won’t be reluctant to let go, right?” I held my breath, actually expecting Caleb to hesitate. Unfortunately, Caleb barely thought before saying with disgust: “Her? Besides being a bit smart, how can she compare to Xia? Playing with her is already doing her a favor.” Zhao Lin punched his shoulder: “True, you really went all out for Xu Xia. Who would have thought Young Master Zhou would condescend to transfer to this crappy place for her, and even bite the bullet to coax a nerd? Pretending to be deep, pretending to be a slacker, smiling every day… big sacrifice!” Caleb sneered: “This is nothing. Pei Xiao made this bet with me just to keep me away from Xia. I want to see, after the applications are done, who will have to leave Xia.” …Who is Pei Xiao? And who is Xu Xia? So, those comments were all true. I was a gambling chip in Caleb’s hand, his pastime for the year, never part of his future plans. So that’s how it is. My past efforts were worthless to my parents. Now, my willing sacrifice is still worthless in his eyes. Then who allowed this world to treat me so lightly? The disappeared comments reappeared at this moment. [Holy crap, when did the supporting female arrive? Did she hear everything?] [Didn’t she just erase the answer sheet? The script isn’t written like this!] [Small change, it’s normal for the supporting character to struggle a bit. Can’t make big waves anyway~] [Can she go offline already! I really want to see Xu Xia and Caleb together! No more cold war for the Leopard and Cat!] I took a deep breath and walked towards them. Seeing me, Caleb’s face changed. He quickly signaled Zhao Lin. Zhao Lin understood, shouted an exaggerated “Hi sister-in-law,” and disappeared instantly. Caleb took my favorite lemon tea from the back seat and smoothly took the pencil case from my hand, welcoming me into the car. “Hard work, baby. How was the exam? Tired?” I was a bit dispirited, only answering “It was okay” in a muffled voice. The comments that just flashed by were in my mind. “Good is good. I know our Tingting is the best.” He smiled and rubbed my hair, his actions intimate and natural. However, the next sentence added an imperceptible nervousness. “But, Tingting…” His voice became lighter, softer, with a coaxing tone. “Did you really… change the answers as we agreed? Chose the wrong ones for multiple choice?” My heart sank, but soon I adjusted my mood and nodded. “Mmh, I wrote wrong answers even for the ones I knew.” “Really?” His follow-up question came almost immediately. “Left the essay blank too? Didn’t… couldn’t help writing too much?” [Hahahahaha Examiner Zhou: Please confirm again if the candidate has self-destructed their future.] [She wrote it! She even changed the multiple-choice answers back! (Violent Roar!) Don’t believe her!] [Wait, screenwriter are you there? What is she doing! Can someone give a spoiler??] I looked up, my gaze piercing through the comments, meeting Caleb’s eyes directly. “Of course. You said your parents hope their future daughter-in-law isn’t too sharp, should be docile and virtuous, and too high a degree is bad. And…” I tilted my head slightly, leaning shyly into his arms: “And didn’t you say this gives you a sense of security? Proving I really love you, willing to give up better choices for you, to live an ordinary, stable life with you. I remember it all.” Caleb’s body visibly relaxed, as if relieved of a heavy burden. “I knew you were so understanding. Don’t worry, those diplomas people fight for are nothing. I’ll only give you something better.” Better… mockery? I leaned on him docilely, but my gaze went over his shoulder, lingering on a few new comments. [Can’t take it anymore! This supporting female is so tea (fake/manipulative) ahhhhhhh!] [Caleb, if you keep this up, I’m telling Xu Xia! (Hands on hips)] [Reporting +1! Xu Xia come see your Leopard tricking another cat!] [It’s fine! Once the bet is over, Pei Xiao and Xie Ting can both roll far away!] … Xu Xia… Pei Xiao… In other words, this Caleb who spared no “huge sacrifice” to trick me into failing the college entrance exam is a “love brain” (lovesick fool). A love brain? That makes things easier. 4 For the next two days of exams, I dutifully played my role as the “stupid trophy wife.” Facing Caleb’s every seemingly casual but actually scheming probe— “Tingting, that last big question was hard, right? Did you help writing too much again?” My eyes were clear to the bottom, with just the right amount of innocence and dependence: “You said to leave it blank. I remembered, so I just scribbled a bit.” Tone soft, no flaws. Everything seemed to be advancing steadily in the direction Caleb planned. Except, I saw a name mentioned repeatedly in the comments on the list outside the exam hall. Pei Xiao. Coincidentally, sitting diagonally behind me. If the comments were true, then we “protagonists” and “supporting roles” with names would definitely be arranged in close proximity according to plot needs. So, the female lead Xu Xia must be here too. Following this guess, I quickly found Xu Xia’s name in this building. She was arranged in the same corridor as Caleb’s exam room. The female lead is right next to the male lead. How fitting for the plot. So do those comments that follow like shadows, yet fail to notice my late-night studying, only focus on the main plot line? My gaze fell on Pei Xiao’s name again. The last exam ended. I deliberately slowed down packing my stationery, but my gaze locked onto the figure diagonally behind me who had already stood up. He moved swiftly, stuffing his pencil case into his bag, and strode out of the classroom with the flow of people. I stood up quickly, entering the crowd almost at the same time as him. It was crowded. I had to be very close to keep up. Fortunately, he never looked back, just walking steadily through the noisy crowd, disappearing into the stairwell on the other side of the corridor. I quickened my pace, following him into the stairwell. —The stairwell was empty. Footsteps gone. Even Pei Xiao was gone. Discovered. My heart tightened. I instinctively took a step back, looking around alertly. A voice descended from above. “You’re following me.” I looked up sharply. Pei Xiao stood on the platform of the highest step, looking down at me. “Something up?” “Let’s talk.” I looked up, meeting his gaze without flinching. “About you and Caleb betting on me.” “You’re that city-wide first place?” Pei Xiao raised an eyebrow, sneering. “I’m not interested in talking to a love-struck fool with no willpower.” I curled my lips: “A-B-B-B, C-C-C-A, C-C-A.” Pei Xiao stopped in his tracks. “Should I continue? You know, just out of the exam, I haven’t had time to check the answers.” A brief silence filled the empty stairwell. The mockery in his eyes faded, replaced by interest. “I can make Caleb win,” I issued an invitation to him, “Naturally, I can also make you win.” Just as he was about to speak— “Xiao!” A clear female voice came from upstairs. “Waited for you for so long, so you were here!” Almost forgot, the male and female leads’ exam rooms were upstairs. Xu Xia’s figure soon appeared at the top of the stairs, and behind her, Caleb walked out looking unkind. Seeing Pei Xiao, his face was indifferent. But soon, he noticed me in front of Pei Xiao, and frowned: “Tingting? You know each other?” I looked at Pei Xiao. He shrugged, with no intention of explaining. So I stepped forward, familiarly wrapping my arm around Caleb’s, my voice sweetly cloying: “You’re here? I dropped my pencil case just now, thanks to this student for picking it up for me.” As I spoke, I shook the pencil case in my hand, looking at Pei Xiao sincerely: “Didn’t have time to say it just now, thanks student. Want to grab a meal together? My boyfriend is very rich.” After speaking, I seemed to just notice Xu Xia at the top of the stairs: “Eh? Is this pretty sister your friend?” I deliberately emphasized the word “friend,” leaning half my body onto Caleb. Caleb’s body stiffened noticeably, looking at Xu Xia nervously. Xu Xia didn’t look at me. Her gaze first fell on my hand holding Caleb, then moved straight up to meet Caleb’s eyes: “This is your love-struck girlfriend? Very sweet. Bless you two.” ? Did I provoke you? Before anyone could react, Xu Xia walked down the steps, reached out naturally, and gently hooked Pei Xiao’s pinky: “Xiao, I’m a bit tired. Take me home.” Under Caleb’s visibly green face, Xu Xia led Pei Xiao away from the stairwell holding hands. Passing me, I saw Pei Xiao’s left eye wink imperceptibly. [Holy crap holy crap holy crap! Nuclear level Shura field (love triangle chaos)!!!] [Xu · Niu Gulu · Xia: The arm-link kill! Counterattack!] [Female lead scolded well! This supporting female is tea to the max.] [Pei Xiao: Who am I, where am I? Whatever, I’ll just stand here.] [Why do I suddenly feel Caleb and Xu Xia fighting is also exciting? Love to watch!] [Shura field plot over. Next plot is the reconciliation, right! Leopard and Cat, speak your feelings!] The comments appeared again. Countless curses at me, discussions about the leads, discussions about the next plot. But not a word about the confrontation between me and Pei Xiao before Xu Xia and Caleb appeared. Indeed, the plot has blind spots. This plot blind spot is my free zone.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “387523”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

I kicked the bucket on my eightieth birthday. Outside the door, my kids were wailing like the world was ending. But my consciousness was fading fast. With my last breath, I looked at the woman who had been by my side for decades, her hair now snow-white. I forced a weak smile and asked, “Sarah, tell me the truth. After all these years… did you ever actually love me?” Seeing the hesitation in her eyes, I got my answer. I whispered, “If I could do it all over again, I definitely wouldn’t love you.” I didn’t expect the universe to call my bluff. When I opened my eyes, I was back in my prime. But before I could even process the joy of being young again, Sarah—who was supposed to be getting engaged to someone else—appeared right in front of me. Seeing the look of pure terror on my face, she flashed a massive grin and grabbed me by the collar. “Hugh Sterling, why did you die so fast? I haven’t answered your question yet.” 1 I opened my eyes, staring blankly at the familiar ceiling of my childhood bedroom. The stiffness of old age was gone, replaced by a vibrant, youthful energy. I realized this wasn’t a dream. I had been reborn. I was twenty-four again. A rush of euphoria hit my brain, but I forced myself to calm down. In this life, I would stay the hell away from Sarah Vance. In my past life, Sarah was the only daughter of the Vance dynasty, the “It Girl” of our social circle, known for her brilliance. But this brilliant woman fell for a punk from the wrong side of the tracks. She was smart; she hid the relationship for a long time. But in high society, secrets don’t stay secret. When her parents found out, they were furious. They immediately planned a strategic marriage alliance to kill her little romance. Sarah didn’t want to do it, but back then, she didn’t have the power to defy her parents. So, she targeted me. The Sterlings and the Vances were old money friends. Sarah and I grew up together. She told me, “Hugh, pretend to date me. If we’re ‘together,’ my parents won’t force me to marry a stranger.” What she didn’t know was that I had been in love with her for years. I was ecstatic. I used my family’s influence to turn her fake proposal into a real engagement. I thought if we got married, she would eventually fall for me. Decades of a frigid marriage proved me wrong. No matter what I did, she never gave me a genuine smile. It got to the point where, on my deathbed, I had to ask if she ever loved me for even a second. This time, I’m letting go. Checking the date, I realized Sarah’s secret romance hadn’t been exposed yet. I immediately dropped my “rich playboy” persona and threw myself into work. My friends were shocked. “Hugh, did you hit your head? Why are you suddenly grinding at the family company? Did the Sterlings go broke?” I just smiled. “I found a killer business opportunity. I’m taking the Sterling Group international. Watch me.” They laughed it off, but I didn’t care. I had decades of future knowledge in my head. Taking the family business to new heights would be a breeze. But first, I needed to prove my worth to my parents. Just then, the news broke. Sarah’s relationship with the punk was discovered. My parents summoned me home. In my past life, this was when our families discussed the arranged marriage, and when Sarah pulled me aside to ask for the fake dating favor. This time, the answer is no. 2 Walking into the living room, seeing Sarah sitting there… even with a lifetime of memories, I faltered. She was in her prime—young, beautiful, radiating that elegant, icy aura that I used to worship. In my last life, that face hooked me instantly. I said yes without hesitation. But her beauty only stunned me for a second this time. I knew she didn’t love me. She didn’t belong to me. So, no matter what she asked, I wasn’t going to play the hero. My dad saw me and waved me over, feigning annoyance. “I told you to hurry up! Always late. You act like a child!” He raised a hand to smack me playfully, but I dodged with an agility I hadn’t possessed in forty years. Hilarious. I lived to be eighty. My dad right now is only in his forties. I’m not the scared kid I used to be. I laughed. “Dad, you’re a grown man. Watch your image in front of guests.” Everyone froze. In their minds, I was still the immature heir. After a beat, Dad laughed and slapped my back hard. “You brat! Making fun of your old man now?” He turned to the Vances. “My son and I are close. He treats you like family, that’s why he’s not putting on airs.” The awkward tension in the room dissipated. But Sarah… she was staring at me blankly. There was none of the anxiety or panic she had in the last timeline. It was weird. I sat next to her and put on a polite, distant smile. “I came in a rush, didn’t bring a gift. You don’t mind, right?” In the last life, I heard she was in trouble and brought a mountain of gifts to impress her. She didn’t even look at them. Even after we married, I showered her with expensive jewelry and surprises. She never smiled. That’s when I learned: if she doesn’t love you, nothing you do matters. I expected her to ignore me. Instead, she smiled—a genuine, bright smile. “It’s okay, Hugh. I’m just happy to see you.” I froze. In my entire previous life, right up until I flatlined, Sarah Vance never smiled at me like that. Does she get off on being treated coldly? I didn’t dwell on it. Soon, her parents would bring up the “punk” issue and the potential marriage alliance. That would be Sarah’s cue to pull me aside. I was ready to reject her. Let her run off with her bad boy. I was cutting the cord. Sure enough, halfway through dinner, the elders started hinting at marriage. Right on cue, Sarah grabbed my arm, asking me to help her find something in the other room. I looked up, expression flat. “No thanks. Ask the butler. I don’t know where anything is.” The table went silent. Everyone looked at me. Since childhood, I was Sarah’s shadow. I revolved around her. Rejecting her was unprecedented. But Sarah didn’t get mad. She reached out to grab my hand directly. I dodged, my face darkening. I didn’t know what game she was playing, but I wasn’t participating. “Personal space, Sarah,” I said sharply. “Don’t get handsy. I’m not interested in you.” My parents were mortified, apologizing profusely to the Vances, claiming I must be in a bad mood. But Sarah? She wasn’t angry. She looked… thrilled? Her smile got even brighter. She didn’t push it. We finished the meal in silence. Her parents finalized plans to marry her off to someone else. I let out a long sigh of relief. Finally. I broke the cycle. 3 I threw myself into work. I had a second chance at life; I wasn’t wasting it on romance. But on my first day at the office, I saw someone who shouldn’t be there. Sarah. She saw me and grinned. “Hugh! You’re here!” She was stunning, and her shout drew every eye in the lobby. I walked over, scowling. “Sarah, what are you doing here?” She patted a large cardboard box next to her, looking innocent. “I’m starting work here. Can’t you tell?” The room spun. Why? Why can’t I shake her off? My phone buzzed. A text from Dad. Turns out, after Sarah went home that night, she told her parents she and I were secretly in love and insisted on getting engaged to me. The parents conferred, decided we were a perfect match, and set it up without telling me. I saw black spots. The Sarah in front of me felt like a stranger. I took a breath, shaking off her hand. “If you’re working here, do your job. We don’t pay people to sit around.” Sarah was proud. She hated having her competence questioned. Humiliating her publicly should make her angry. I turned to leave. She grabbed my sleeve again. I turned back, and she stood on tiptoes, planting a kiss on my cheek. Her voice was soft, almost spoiling—a tone I hadn’t heard in eighty years. “We’re boyfriend and girlfriend, aren’t we? Hugh, you’re so mean.” The lobby went dead silent. Everyone dropped their jaws. Me included. I stared at her, trying to reconcile this woman with my memories. It was the same face, but a completely different soul. But I’m an eighty-year-old man in a twenty-something’s body. I wasn’t going to be played by a little girl. I called the lobby manager over, voice cold. “Where’s HR? How did she get in? Did she go through the process? If she didn’t pass the interview, kick her out.” The manager looked terrified. “The Chairman brought Miss Vance in personally… we can’t…” I pinched the bridge of my nose. “Fine. Nepotism looks bad. Make her start from the bottom. Mailroom or something. I’m going to work.” I looked at Sarah, face stone cold. “I didn’t know about the engagement, and I didn’t agree to it. I’ll clear it up with my parents. Please have some self-respect.” I got into the elevator. Knowing Sarah, she’s arrogant. She has sand in her eyes. Me treating her like this in public? She should quit by lunch. I sat in the CEO’s office (well, the VP office for now) and started reviewing files. I needed to show my parents I could run this place so they’d hand over the reins. I had decades of future market trends in my head. I was going to turn Sterling Corp into a global empire. Time flew. Lunchtime. I stretched my aching back and headed to the cafeteria. As soon as I stepped out, I saw her. Sarah was leaning against the wall, holding a bento box. Seeing me, she lit up and ran over. “Hungry? I saw you working so hard you forgot to eat, so I brought this up.” I frowned, pushing the warm box away. “No thanks. We have a cafeteria. And you’re not allowed on this floor. Who let you up?” I glared at the secretary. Before he could stammer an excuse, Sarah laughed. “I demanded to come up. Don’t blame him. I’m your girlfriend; they didn’t dare stop me.” Rage flared up. Before I could snap, she grabbed my hand, eyes watering. “Hugh, you might not believe me, but I really like you. I want to pursue you. Just give me a chance, okay?” In my last life, if she had said this, I would have died of happiness. In this life, it just gave me chills. What the hell happened to her? People in the hallway were staring, envious. I was about to reject the bento again when she threw herself into my arms. I tried to push her away, but she whispered through gritted teeth right into my ear: “Hugh Sterling, don’t think you’re the only one who got reborn. If you give me attitude again, I’m telling your dad you’re bullying your future wife.” 4 I froze. To the onlookers, it looked like I was stunned by a beautiful woman’s embrace. But my brain was short-circuiting. Sarah was reborn too. But why? Why chase me in this life? I dragged her into my office and slammed the door. “You’re hurting me,” she complained, giving me that look. The look that used to make me cave instantly in our past life. Not this time. I took a deep breath. “Sarah, since we’re both re-doers, I’ll be straight. Let’s stay out of each other’s way. No contact.” She looked at me with puppy eyes. “We were married for decades, and you never yelled at me. Now you’re cold, and you hurt my wrist.” I faltered. Letting go of a lifetime of love isn’t easy. But I remembered dying without ever hearing her say “I love you.” I couldn’t do that again. I stepped back. “I’m not joking. I know you don’t love me. I won’t stop you from finding your true love this time. You’re brilliant; you can build the Vance empire without me. Don’t waste time on me.” It was true. In our previous life, Sarah became a business titan, the Iron Lady. People called her Mrs. Vance, not Mrs. Sterling. She was more famous than I ever was. I turned to leave. Her phone rang. Sharp. Sudden. I glanced at the screen. Jax. The punk. The love of her life. The reason my marriage was an ice age. I stopped, watching her coldly. She claimed she loved me sincerely. Let’s see what she does when her “true love” calls. She didn’t hesitate. She picked up. “Okay, I got it. Where are you? I’m coming right now.” She hung up, gave me an apologetic smile, and ran out without a word. I let out a bitter laugh. See? Past life, present life, it doesn’t matter. I’m always the second choice she discards without a second thought. I was stupid to hesitate. I drove straight to my parents’ house. I had to end this engagement. My parents were surprised to see me home so early. “Dad,” I said, cutting off his greeting. “I want to cancel the engagement with Sarah.” Dad looked confused, then angry. “Stop acting out. We already shook hands with the Vances.” In his mind, I was still the kid obsessed with her. “I don’t like her,” I said firmly. “She didn’t ask me. Just forget it. I’d rather find someone I actually love than settle.” Dad saw the exhaustion in my eyes. He hesitated. “Fine,” he sighed. “If you’re sure. I’ll talk to the Vances in a few days. Good thing we haven’t announced it publicly yet.” He looked like he wanted to ask more, but he just closed my bedroom door, letting me rest. I collapsed onto the bed. Both of us reborn. But she’s still chasing the punk while trying to keep me on the hook? I drifted into a deep sleep.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “387522”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

During a post-SAT interview, the school genius confessed his love to me in front of everyone. The reporter asked, “How are you sure she likes you back?” His ears turned pink as he said softly, “Her Instagram background is the ocean, so I posted a picture of a bald cartoon character drowning in the sea.” “It was only visible to her, and she liked it.” Reporter: “…” That night, the video went viral. Netizens commented: “Bro, quit the crush, join the CIA.” 1 I had just finished my last SAT and was about to sleep for a week straight when my childhood bestie woke me up with a barrage of calls. “Aurora, wake up! You’re trending!” I clicked on the video she sent. It was an interview outside the exam center. The reporter held a microphone: “Any thoughts on the exam?” Other students: “Buff Yasuo.” “Buff Lux.” Then it was Liam’s turn. The reporter asked, “Anything you want buffed?” Liam looked cool and indifferent: “Nothing needs buffing. just cancel the $9 delivery fee on DoorDash, thanks.” He was about to leave but turned back. “Can I use this interview to confess?” The reporter agreed immediately: “Of course!” Liam looked straight into the camera, a shy smile playing on his lips. “Aurora Vance, I’ve liked you for three whole years.” “See you at MIT.” The reporter’s gossip radar pinged: “Does she like you back?” Liam blushed furiously, the red spreading to his ears. “I think so.” Reporter: “How are you sure?” Liam’s voice turned incredibly gentle: “Her Instagram background is the ocean, so I posted a picture of a bald cartoon character drowning in the sea.” “It was only visible to her, and she liked it.” “I think it’s mutual.” Reporter: “…” The reporter was speechless. Watching the video, so was I. 2 Mutual crush my ass. Liam and I are rivals, okay? Liam was the transfer student who stole my spot as number one in the grade the moment he arrived. To beat him, I studied until 3 AM every night, only to be triggered by that stupid picture of a drowning bald cartoon character. I thought he was mocking me, saying the new wave pushes the old wave onto the beach to die, drowning me in the sea with no chance of recovery. In a fit of rage, I liked his post, then furiously did two extra sets of physics problems at dawn with tears in my eyes. 3 Liam’s interview video on TikTok got millions of likes and dominated the trending topics. Comments: [Bro, quit the crush, join the CIA.] [LMAO, drowning in the sea means drowning in you? Genius logic is built different.] [Haha, thought it was a mutual crush between geniuses, turns out it’s a one-sided delusional love.] [Stop laughing, even if they don’t date, they’ll see each other at MIT for four years.] [It’s funny but kinda cute. ‘My rival of three years has a crush on me.’ Anyone else shipping this chaotic couple?] [Sister, I ship it. Hard.] TikTok even pinned Liam’s account. He only had a few videos, all about me—our report cards where he was first and I was second, blurry photos of my back. The dates spanned from freshman to senior year, never missing a beat. His comment section was flooded. Liam: [I’ve been so obvious for three years, she must know I like her, right?] Remembering how he crushed me academically year after year, I replied coldly: [I didn’t know. Also, Aurora doesn’t like you.] But Liam recognized my account. Liam: [Then can you try liking me a little bit in the future?] Me: [No.] Liam: [Just try.] Me: [No.] Liam: [Just try it.] … He was stubborn, repeating it dozens of times until I snapped: [Liam, are you a bot?] The comments went wild: [Hahahaha, Mr. Try and Ms. No, they are hilarious.] [Dead. The genius stopped replying, probably crying under his blanket.] [Liam: She called me a bot.] [Bot Liam is currently shutting down.] [Both are persistent, no wonder they’re geniuses. Hehe, shipping harder.] 4 Meanwhile, my dad saw the video too. He kept pestering me about my relationship with Liam. Annoyed, I fled to my mom’s bubble tea shop to help out. “Aurora, what a coincidence!” A familiar voice from above. No way. Even here? I looked up. Liam wore a white shirt, standing tall. His messy black bangs couldn’t hide those beautiful eyes. I pretended not to know him: “What do you want?” His voice was shy, ears pink: “Peach smoothie, please.” Just then, my mom came back. She was thrilled to see him: “You’re Liam, right? Just as handsome as in the video.” Liam scratched his head shyly: “Are you Aurora’s sister? Sorry for the confusion.” “I’m over forty, I’m her mom.” Liam looked shocked: “Auntie, you look so young, not like forty at all.” Seeing my mom grinning ear to ear, I knew she was bought. I handed Liam his smoothie, praying he’d leave. When paying, my mom and I spoke at the same time. Mom: “No need to pay, it’s on the house.” Me: “That’ll be thirteen dollars.” Mom slapped my shoulder: “Classmates don’t pay for a drink.” Liam paid anyway. Don’t know what Mom told him outside, but she left afterward. Liam walked up to me shyly: “Auntie said there’s something at home, asked me to help out here.” Seeing I didn’t refuse, he happily went to the back to help. I have to say, Liam really works. Carrying water, moving tea buckets, cleaning the ice cream machine—he did all the dirty, tiring work. The shop closed at 5 PM. I prepared to lock up. Liam finished wiping the tables: “It’s getting dark, I’ll walk you home.” I looked at the blazing sun outside and stayed silent. 5 On the way home, Liam stopped at a convenience store. He bought two yogurts, one for him, one for me. I stared at the peach yogurt in my hand, stunned. “How did you know I like this flavor?” Liam’s eyes crinkled with a smile: “I’ve been giving you yogurt for three years, how could I not know?” My brain short-circuited. I looked at him in disbelief. “You mean you gave me all those yogurts?” Liam looked confused: “Yeah, why?” Help. I thought my homeroom teacher gave them to encourage me. Thinking it was her, I studied like crazy to make her proud, aiming to be the city’s top student. Now you tell me it was Liam? What were those hundreds of extra test papers for?! I was baffled: “But didn’t the teacher give me the first one?” Liam explained: “I saw her give you peach yogurt and you liked it. After that, I put notes under the yogurt I gave you, and you didn’t refuse.” Notes? I thought they were trash and threw them away. I realized: “So you thought I knew you liked me?” Liam nodded. LOL. I thought he was being delusional in the interview, turns out it was a misunderstanding. And I drank his yogurt for three years. Embarrassing. Seeing my懊恼 (annoyed/regretful) face, Liam tried to hold back laughter. I glared: “Are you laughing at me?” He coughed: “No, just think you’re cute.” My heart skipped a beat. I stood on tiptoes, waving my fist at him awkwardly: “You’re the cute one.” Liam suddenly leaned in, our lips inches apart. The air turned electric. “Okay, I’m cute.” He looked down at me, eyes full of affection, voice husky and alluring: “So Aurora, can you try liking me a little bit?” For some reason, my heart raced. “Let me think about it.” I dropped the sentence and practically fled.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “387521”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel