Author: Momo Chan

Dominic Thorne’s first love was kidnapped while filming on a remote set and went missing for three terrifying days and nights. Two months later, she stood on a rooftop, crying as she called him, “Dominic, I’m pregnant! The media is tracking me! I don’t want to live!” He rushed to the rooftop and announced to all the media, “The baby is mine.” Overnight, I became the laughingstock of the city’s elite circles. That night, Dominic Thorne knelt before me, his eyes bloodshot, his voice choked with emotion, raw with pain. “Elara, Seraphina Monroe has depression. If I don’t help her, she’ll die! After she safely gives birth, I’ll make it up to you, okay?” I loved him, loved him so much it made me卑微, so I could only grit my teeth and agree. But the next day, the internet exploded with news, and the woman in the blurred photo was clearly me. I trembled as I found Dominic Thorne. He embraced me in agony, “We can’t suppress the news… Elara, you rarely appear in public. We’ll just have to ask you to claim this for now.” He reached out to hold me, but his words sent a chill down my spine. “How about this, you get rid of the baby first. We can have more later.” In that moment, my heart completely died. I wiped away my tears and dialed a long-forgotten number. The call connected, and a man’s deep voice came through with a dangerously low chuckle. “You’ve finally… come to beg me?”

“What did you say?” My voice trembled violently. “Seraphina’s kidnapping can’t be exposed. She just signed a major international brand endorsement. If it comes out, her career will be ruined,” Dominic Thorne’s tone was calm, almost cruel. “But you’re different. You rarely appear in public. As long as you take the blame for this, the public outrage will quickly pass.” I stared intently at the man I had loved for years. “Dominic Thorne, do you know what you’re saying?” “Before, you wanted me to claim paternity for Seraphina Monroe’s baby, and I agreed.” “Now, you want me to admit to being kidnapped and… assaulted for her?!” His voice was low. “Elara, I’m begging you.” “Begging me?” I laughed, but tears streamed down my face. “For her, you want me to ruin my own reputation?” “Seraphina can’t handle this kind of blow. She already has depression,” he said urgently. “But you’re different. You’ve always been strong.” “So I’m just disposable?” I practically hissed through clenched teeth. “It’s not a sacrifice, just a temporary solution.” He paused, his tone softening. “Elara, could you… get rid of the baby first?” My world shattered in an instant. “Dominic Thorne,” my voice was hoarse. “That’s your baby too!!!” “I know!” His voice suddenly became agitated. “But Seraphina can’t handle any stress right now!” My breath hitched for a second. I laughed, tears streaming down my face. “Fine, I agree.” He was about to say something else when his phone suddenly rang. From the other end of the line, I heard a crying sound. “Waaah! Dominic, I had a nightmare! I’m so scared! Will they tell everyone about what happened to me?” Seraphina Monroe’s delicate voice whined. Dominic Thorne’s tone instantly changed. He cooed softly, “Don’t worry, Seraphina, I won’t let anyone hurt you.” The call ended, and he turned and left without a moment’s hesitation. I went to the hospital. The nurse handed me a form, her eyes filled with pity. “Mrs. Thorne, are you sure you want to proceed with the surgery?” I looked down at the paper. Dominic Thorne’s name was already signed. He had already arranged all of this. I nodded numbly. “Yes.” The doctor pushed up her glasses, her voice calm. “Your physical condition is special. This abortion could lead to permanent infertility. Are you sure you want to risk it?” I snapped my head up. “Permanent infertility?” “Yes, your uterine lining is thin. If you force this abortion, it might be very difficult to get pregnant again in the future…” My fingers trembled slightly. Dominic Thorne, you knew about this, and you still want me to abort this baby! All for Seraphina Monroe. I bit my lip so hard until the taste of blood spread in my mouth. Suddenly, a strange flutter came from my abdomen, like a tiny butterfly fluttering its wings a few times. I grabbed the doctor’s wrist. “Stop! I’m not doing it!” The doctor frowned. “Mrs. Thorne, your husband specifically instructed…” “I said I’m not doing it!” I yelled, sitting up from the operating table and tearing off the surgical gown. “I’m keeping this baby!” When I walked out of the hospital, the sunlight was blinding. I opened my phone. The top trending headline boldly read: \#DominicThorneSeraphinaMonroeSweetOutingAtLuxuryBabyStore\# The accompanying photo showed my husband’s hand carefully placed on Seraphina Monroe’s lower back as she gently caressed her visibly rounded belly. The comment section was full of praise: “This is a match made in heaven! A dazzling actress and a prominent mogul from the city’s elite – a perfect couple!” “Seraphina Monroe’s belly is already so big. How can Dominic’s wife still cling to her position?” “I heard that woman got pregnant with a bastard after disappearing for a few days, and Mr. Thorne was kind enough not to divorce her on the spot!” “Who knows if she was really missing or faking it? Maybe she was secretly meeting with another man!” My nails dug deep into my palms, but I felt nothing, only a profound numbness. “Don’t be scared, baby,” I whispered, touching my abdomen. “Mommy will protect you.” I turned and went to a law firm to draft divorce papers.

Back at the mansion, the front door was ajar. Pushing it open, I saw Seraphina Monroe lying on the sofa, Dominic Thorne’s hand resting on her rounded belly. “Dominic, the baby kicked me again!” she cooed, playfully grabbing Dominic Thorne’s hand and pressing it onto her stomach. Dominic Thorne’s face showed a tenderness I had never seen before. “It’s really moving.” I stood in the foyer, my fists clenched. Dominic Thorne saw me, and his expression shifted slightly. He quickly walked over, lowering his voice. “Elara, Seraphina tried to harm herself again today. The doctor said she has prenatal depression. Could you… give us some space?” I scoffed. “This is my home.” “She grew up with me; I can’t just abandon her.” His tone softened. “After she has the baby, I’ll find a way to send her and the child away, let her break into Hollywood.” I said nothing more and turned to go upstairs. Even in the bedroom, I could still hear their laughter. “Oh, the baby kicked me!” Seraphina Monroe’s voice was cloyingly sweet. I curled up on the bed, my tears soaking the pillow. Late at night, Dominic Thorne quietly slipped into bed and embraced me from behind. “Elara, I’m sorry,” his voice was hoarse. “We’ll still have children.” My body stiffened. He still didn’t know that I hadn’t aborted the baby. “Ah—” Seraphina Monroe’s piercing scream suddenly came from the next room. “Don’t touch me! Get away!” “Don’t touch me! Don’t photograph me!” Dominic Thorne shot up, not even bothering with slippers, and rushed out. All night, his gentle, soothing voice echoed in the hallway. In the morning. Dragging my exhausted body downstairs, the scent of frying eggs wafted from the kitchen. Dominic Thorne stood at the stove. Seraphina Monroe stealthily wrapped her arms around his waist from behind, her face pressed against his back, smiling sweetly. Seeing me, she immediately let go and spoke timidly, “Elara, my head hurts a little. Could Dominic help me get my hat?” Dominic Thorne, without a word, turned and went upstairs. The apology on Seraphina Monroe’s face vanished instantly. She leaned closer to me, a smirk playing on her red lips. “Dominic said the bastard in your belly should never have been kept.” I snapped my head up, my fingertips trembling uncontrollably. She gave a contemptuous smile, lowering her voice. “Do you know the Sterling family? My powerful connections are with them.” She deliberately paused, savoring my rapidly changing expression. “The Sterling family just has to lift a finger, and the entire city would quake. What do you have to fight me with?” I clenched my fists tightly. The Sterling family was a true generational powerhouse, an old money dynasty, controlling a significant portion of the nation’s economy. Forget the Thornes; even all the powerful figures in the city combined were mere ants before the Sterling family. She suddenly stumbled backward, falling to the floor, and shrieked loudly, “Elara! I know you hate me for taking Dominic! I’ll just end it all!” “Elara!” Dominic Thorne rushed downstairs, shoving me violently. I stumbled and crashed into the coffee table, a searing pain shooting through my lower back. He immediately pulled Seraphina Monroe into his arms, his eyes icy and piercing. “What did you do to her? Can you stop acting childishly!” “I didn’t do anything!” My voice trembled. “You better not have!” He hugged Seraphina Monroe tightly and walked out without looking back. “Seraphina, let’s go.” I stood in the living room, my hand unconsciously stroking my lower belly.

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The man I’d loved for ten years was a father, and I was the very last to know. I stood outside the private room, watching him. He was doting on the infant in his arms, his face soft with a tenderness I’d never seen directed at me. He was giving instructions to his friends in the circle: “Briar and I having a baby, keep it quiet for now. Otherwise, Aurora will definitely come back and make a scene.” I’d loved him for a decade. Before I went abroad, I confessed my feelings to him. Back then, he’d told me, “When you come back, we’ll be together.” But the reality was so utterly ridiculous. This time, I didn’t make a scene, didn’t even demand answers. Because I had decided to finally let go of Caleb. … “Caleb, you’re throwing such a grand baby shower. Aren’t you worried the news will reach Aurora?” Caleb looked at the sleeping baby in the stroller, his gaze softer than I had ever seen it. “For my darling’s baby shower, of course, the grander, the better.” “Don’t worry, I’ve had people contain the news. She won’t find out.” “But even if she does, so what? It’ll just be a chance for me to set things straight with her. The only reason I’m hiding it from her now is because I don’t want her to ruin the baby shower I’ve so carefully planned.” “You know Aurora, she never knew how to behave, always making a scene. No grace, no class.” I stood by the door to the private room, listening to the conversation clearly through the crack, feeling a chill seep into my bones. Did Caleb hate me? But he had personally told me he liked me. If he hadn’t called me a few days ago, saying he missed me, I wouldn’t have taken special leave to come home. I’d intended to surprise Caleb. Instead, the surprise turned into a shock, and it allowed me to hear Caleb’s true feelings. No one noticed me outside the door, and the conversation inside continued. “Our Caleb must have been so troubled, being forcibly liked by his adoptive sister for so many years. It’s a good thing he’s finally free from her entanglement. Of course, he’d want to speed up his life now.” “But Caleb, are you keeping the news of your wedding with Briar next month under wraps too? Won’t that be unfair to her?” Caleb kissed the baby in the stroller. “We’ll see then. I’ll find a suitable time to make things clear with Aurora.” “No matter what, I can’t let Briar be wronged.” Just then, Briar Sterling emerged from the private room’s lounge area, holding a baby bottle. “Caleb, you don’t have to worry about me. Aurora is just young and naive. I believe when she grows up a little more, she’ll understand.” Someone immediately chimed in, flattering her: “Our Briar is so generous and understanding. No wonder Caleb is so devoted to you. If I married a woman like you, I’d pamper her every single day.” “Exactly. Even though Aurora and Briar are best friends, why didn’t Aurora learn anything from Briar? She’s in her twenties, yet she acts like a giant baby, so annoying.” Suddenly, the private room erupted in laughter. Outside, my heart constricted sharply, almost stopping. They were right. Briar and I had been best friends for over ten years. Before I went abroad, I’d even specifically asked her to keep a good eye on Caleb for me. Briar had readily agreed, swearing she’d protect my heart and keep my beloved safe. But little over a year had passed, and their daughter was already a month old. I never imagined the kind of trashy drama where your best friend steals your man would actually happen to me. Watching the happy family of three embracing inside the private room, I snapped back to reality. I pulled my hand back from the doorknob as if I’d been electrocuted. What good would it do if I pushed this door open? Now, I didn’t even have the right to question Caleb and Briar! After all, Caleb and I had never officially been together. Before I left, Caleb had only verbally promised me: “When you come back in two years, if you still like me, we’ll be together.” So, whether Caleb and Briar married or had a child, it was their choice. I pulled out my phone and opened SnapChat, my eyes immediately falling on Caleb’s profile picture at the top of my chat list. Ever since Caleb sent me that “I miss you” message last week, he hadn’t contacted me again. No matter what I sent him, he hadn’t replied with a single word. Before today, I’d just thought he was busy with work. Now it seemed, he wasn’t busy with work at all. He was busy planning his child’s baby shower. My thumb hovered over the screen for a long time before I finally tapped on Caleb’s profile picture. I sent him a message: [Caleb, what are you busy with? Why aren’t you replying to my messages?] Just as I sent it, Caleb’s phone chimed in the private room. He picked it up and glanced at it. He only frowned slightly, but didn’t reply. Instead, he simply switched his phone off. Briar, sitting beside him, saw the message and asked, seemingly nonchalant: “Caleb, was that Aurora’s message? Why didn’t you reply?” Caleb kissed Briar’s forehead, then took the baby from her arms, his voice icy cold: “Replying to her messages is just a waste of time.” “You know, I’ve always found her annoying. If it weren’t for her parents’ past kindness to my family, if it weren’t for my dad telling me to take good care of her, I wouldn’t even bother playing along with her.” “Briar, you’re the only one I love. Because of her, you’ve suffered so many grievances over the years.” “Don’t worry, once we’re married, I’ll make it up to you and Ella.” I didn’t stay to listen to the rest of the conversation. I simply turned and left the hotel. Sunlight fell on me, but my mind remained hazy. Suddenly, I thought I heard someone call my name from behind. I turned and saw Dylan, another one of Caleb’s friends. He was holding a huge pink doll, clearly a baby shower gift. His eyes were wide with surprise: “Aurora, when did you get back? Why are you at this hotel? Are you…” He didn’t finish his sentence, but I knew what he was going to ask. I pressed my lips together, unsure what to say. So, I chose to ignore his questions, hailed a taxi, and left. Sitting in the taxi, watching the scenery rush by, a cruel truth finally sank in for me— The man I’d loved for ten years had never truly loved me. Caleb had been deceiving me all along, and so had my best friend. I didn’t understand what I had done wrong, why everyone had to treat me this way. Tears streamed down my face, and even the taxi driver couldn’t help glancing in the rearview mirror several times. Just then, my phone rang. It was Caleb’s special ringtone. “Aurora, are you back?” His voice was as calm as ever, not a hint of anything unusual. If I hadn’t already stumbled upon everything, I probably would have continued to be fooled by him. I wiped away the lingering tears, quickly composed myself, and softly replied: “Yeah, school’s on break, so I came back.” “Then why didn’t you tell me beforehand? I would’ve picked you up.” “I was afraid you were busy with work, so I didn’t want to disturb you.” Caleb was silent for a moment, then asked again: “My friend just said he ran into you outside the city’s grand hotel. What were you doing there?” My fingers tightened involuntarily around my phone. For some reason, I still didn’t want to expose his lies, so I said: “Just meeting a friend.” I thought, if he could tell me the whole truth right now, I would forgive his deception and just be true siblings with him. But he still disappointed me. Hearing my answer, Caleb finally relaxed. “Okay, go home first. I’m tied up with something here. I’ll come home to you as soon as I’m done.” With that, he hung up. It wasn’t until evening that Caleb hurried home. He had changed out of the suit he’d worn to the baby shower, but I could still smell the strong scent of baby formula on him. Noticing me watching him, Caleb quickly chuckled: “Aurora, why are you staring at me? We haven’t seen each other for just over a year, are you missing me that much?” “How long is your vacation this time? When are you going back?” Hearing Caleb’s question, I clenched my fists. I had just returned, and Caleb was already eager for me to leave. Was he really that afraid I would ruin his and Briar’s happy family? **Chapter 3** I was about to speak, but my gaze suddenly fell on Caleb’s wrist. Even with the watch covering it, I still caught sight of a red rose tattoo, etched onto his wrist at some point. Briar’s nickname was Rose, and all her social media handles were “Rose” too. The words I’d meant to ask were swallowed back down. All my fantasies vanished because of that rose. It was Caleb who had initiated the promise before I went abroad. It was he who, disregarding gender boundaries, had kissed me first. It was he who, when drunk, had confessed his deep affection. And it was he who wouldn’t allow any other guys near me. Everything Caleb had shown led me not to intentionally control my emotions. But just as I was deeply entangled, he told me that everything had been my wishful thinking. I looked into Caleb’s eyes and said seriously: “Caleb, we grew up together. You must know how I feel about you.” Caleb looked indifferent: “Aurora, don’t worry, I’ll wait for you to come back.” Hearing that answer, I suddenly laughed. Even now, Caleb was still deceiving me. Sensing that my mood was off, Caleb’s eyes darkened slightly, and his voice unconsciously held a hint of nervousness: “Aurora, what’s wrong?” I lowered my eyes and gently shook my head. “Nothing, I’m just too happy.” Caleb finally breathed a sigh of relief. “Good, as long as you’re happy. I’m taking you out to dinner now, to welcome you back.” Caleb directly pulled me out the door. I habitually opened the passenger seat door, only to see a pack of diapers, a doll, and a woman’s purse on the seat. I knew that purse intimately; it was the birthday gift I’d given Briar last year. Caleb quickly explained: “My friend borrowed my car yesterday. These things must be his leftovers. How about you just make do and sit in the back seat today?” I didn’t say anything. I just closed the passenger door and obediently got into the back. After Caleb got in the car, he even carefully straightened the doll. After all, that was his daughter’s favorite toy. The car started, and I didn’t chatter with Caleb like I used to, constantly looking for topics. I just silently watched the scenery outside the window. I couldn’t understand how Caleb could say he loved me on one hand, and then marry someone else and have a child on the other. Caleb, however, uncharacteristically kept trying to talk to me. He asked me, like a caring older brother, how my life abroad was, if I was used to it, and if anyone had bullied me. Before, if Caleb had been so actively concerned, I would have been ecstatic. But now, I didn’t want to hear any of his empty words. I just wanted him to tell me the truth about everything, in his own words. I responded to Caleb’s questions in a desultory manner. Caleb suddenly seemed to remember something, taking a tin of mints from the glove compartment and handing it to me in the back seat. “Aurora, I remember you always get carsick, so you love mints. I specifically prepared these for you.” Looking at the mints in my hand, I froze. I didn’t get carsick.

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Four years into our marriage, Alex Thorne was keeping a young college student outside our home. She was bright, pretty, and full of life. She’d drag Alex, a multi-billionaire, to greasy food trucks and cheer on her favorite e-sports player. Alex called me: “I’m not coming home tonight, I’m watching Jax Ryder’s game.” The girl beside him let out a snicker: “That boring old woman? Does she even know who Jax Ryder is?” They had no idea. After the call ended, Jax Ryder pressed me against the dim glow of the car headlights. His sharp canine tooth gently grazed the back of my neck, a faint sting spreading. “Sister, I won the game. How are you going to reward me tonight?” The first time I saw Chloe Evans was on my twenty-sixth birthday. I was still smiling, chatting with guests at the party. “Something came up at the office, Alex will be home a bit later, but his gift has already arrived—” My words hung in the air. Alex walked in, Chloe right beside him, in front of everyone. Chloe wore a vibrant red dress, clinging to Alex’s arm, curiously glancing around. Fluttering around like a little bird, chattering non-stop: “You said you’d take me somewhere fun, is this it?” She scanned the room, her gaze pausing on my face for two seconds before moving on. “Wow, that cake looks good, I want some!” Alex smiled at her, letting her turn my birthday party into a chaotic mess. Guests around us whispered: “How can she be so brazen, causing a scene right in front of Eve?” “She’s favored, I guess. Even if they’re married, Eve was the one practically throwing herself at him, wasn’t she?” “How embarrassing. Her birthday ruined, and she doesn’t even dare to say a word. If I were her, I’d be mortified to death.” I just stood there, encased in my expensive gown, pretending not to hear their cutting remarks. I found Alex and spoke softly: “We had an agreement, you wouldn’t bring anyone to my face.” “No matter what, some basic decorum should still be—” He cut me off roughly before I could finish. Having had a few drinks with Chloe, his eyes held a slight, drunken haze. When he looked down at me, the contempt and disdain in his gaze were even more pronounced. “Eve, it seems I’ve spoiled you too much.” He laughed. “Who are you to demand ‘decorum’ from me, Eve?” I froze. The exceptionally bright lights overhead shone down. The hard shell I had painstakingly built up melted like ice and snow under his mocking gaze. Coming from a modest background like the Hardings, yet marrying Alex Thorne. Everyone thought I had climbed my way up. In fact, I wasn’t even truly considered a Harding. “She’s pretty cheap, but women from that sort of background always are…” Behind me, someone’s voice grew carelessly loud. It reached our ears. Alex, his expression distant, handed me a check: “That project you mentioned wanting to invest in, go ahead and do it yourself.” “Eve, don’t think I owe you anything more.” He raised an eyebrow, “If you learn to please me better, you might just boost your worth a little more.”

The evening, which had devolved into a farce, finally ended. Alex, with a drunk Chloe in his arms, left. They hadn’t even walked out of my sight before they kissed under the garden lights. Through the rain-streaked glass, I watched them calmly for a while. Then I lowered my head and carefully put the check away. I pulled out my phone and tapped on the pinned chat. A simple “Miss you a little” I’d sent before the party had received six replies. Five hours ago: “1.” Four hours ago: “Training now.” Three hours ago: “Actually, I don’t mind being interrupted during training.” Two hours ago: “They said it’s your birthday today.” An hour ago: “Happy birthday.” And the one that had just popped up: “I’m coming to see you.” I curved my lips into a small smile. I replied: “No need. I’ll come watch your game next week.” The “Typing…” above his name flickered for a long time. Then he sent two replies: “Okay.” “Don’t mess with me.”

Over the next month, Alex and Chloe openly attended various events. Like a young couple deeply in love. She’d drag Alex, a multi-billionaire, to greasy food trucks, take goofy photo booth pics, and kiss under the sea breeze in Bali. He even went with her to watch Jax Ryder’s offline game. Jax Ryder. The hottest e-sports player right now. A nineteen-year-old prodigy, already showing astonishing talent. Last year, he led his team to victory in the World Championship. Chloe wore his fan headband, clinging to Alex’s arm, enthusiastically taking photos outside the stadium. Alex, a hint of jealousy in his voice, pulled her waist closer: “Why do you like a kid who’s barely out of diapers so much?” “I just like watching him play.” Chloe smiled and kissed his cheek. “Of course, I love you most!” My car was parked by the roadside, and I witnessed the entire scene. I had just swallowed back the bitter taste in my mouth when Alex called: “That project you mentioned yesterday, let’s talk about it another time.” His tone was cold and impatient. “I’m busy tonight, not coming home.” I gave a silent laugh and deliberately asked him, “What are you busy with?” “Watching Jax Ryder’s game—” Before he finished speaking, Chloe beside him suddenly snickered, “That boring old woman? Does she even know who Jax Ryder is?” Through the car window, I watched her snatch the phone from Alex’s hand. “Ma’am, don’t ask what you shouldn’t. Hanging up.” Her tone was spoiled and arrogant. But she was young and beautiful, like a bright flower in full bloom. So Alex just indulged her, pinching her cheek, and walked with her into the VIP section. Everyone prefers what’s younger and more beautiful. I, of course, was no exception. My phone screen lit up again; it was Jax Ryder calling. His tone wasn’t very good: “Are you here yet?” “Last time you said you’d come to my game but then had an excuse. It’s not like that again, is it?” “I’m here.” I tapped my knuckles on the car window. “But… you’re too popular. I could only get bleacher seats. I’ll find you after the game.” Jax Ryder chuckled: “Tsk, you think you need to buy tickets to watch my game?” “I had the club set aside a private box for you. Go straight there.” He paused, then suddenly added, “Sister, have you thought about it? Last time you stood me up and promised to make it up to me. If I win this time, what’s my reward?” “What do you want?” “Whatever I want… is that allowed?” The last few words were hoarse, almost a whisper. Even over the phone, I could picture the curve of his lips. And the secret desire that would slowly ignite in his beautiful, sharp eyes as they fixed on me. I gave a lenient smile. “Whatever you want.” There was a second of silence. He said: “Eve, if I win the championship, tonight, your time is mine.” The game began. Through the glass, I saw Jax Ryder put on his headphones, his fingers flying across the keyboard. His expression was serious and stern, his focused gaze never wavering. Until the bright red “3:0” flashed on the screen. “Champions!!—” He stood up amidst the deafening cheers of the crowd, and across the people and the crisscrossing lights, his eyes met mine. My lips moved silently: “Congratulations.” He smiled too, mimicking me, mouthing: “Now, you’re all mine.” This night belonged to Jax Ryder.

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The wedding day, he left me there alone and disappeared. With my four-month baby bump, I called him countless times. At first, he just wouldn’t pick up. Then, his phone went straight to voicemail. Whispers started to ripple through the crowd: “First time I’ve seen a groom ditch his own wedding.” “Shotgun weddings rarely work out, and honestly, he probably had every right to bail.” I stood there in the wind, completely helpless, trying to comfort the guests who were now quietly leaving. All day, I waited like an idiot on the street corner. Even after everyone had gone home, he never showed. An older woman nearby casually remarked, “Declan, he’s like… your dad’s ex-wife’s kid. What if he’s here to get back at you?” On the drive home, that line echoed relentlessly in my mind. Lost in a daze, my car collided with a truck. My four-month-old baby and I were buried beneath the wreckage. When I opened my eyes again, I was three months in the past, on the day I found out I was pregnant. I clutched the pregnancy test, sitting on the toilet for a long time. A single beam of light streamed in from the slightly ajar window, highlighting the two stark, vivid lines on the stick. The dripping water in the bathroom echoed the dull ache in my chest, a heavy, suffocating feeling. The suffocating pain from my past life hadn’t fully faded when Declan’s voice drifted from outside the door. “What’s wrong?” His tone was as calm and composed as ever. Just half an hour ago, I was standing at our wedding, praying countless times for him to appear. In my past life, on this very day, he’d just gotten back from work, bringing me my favorite pastries. I’d excitedly rushed out to hug him, showing him the pregnancy test. Declan’s expression then was complicated. He held it, staring for a long time. “Are you sure?” The joy in my heart froze, as if I’d been doused with cold water. My smile faltered, and I cautiously asked, “You… you don’t want it?” “No, it’s not that.” He pressed his lips together, giving me a deep, searching look. “We’re not married yet…” “Can we get married now?” Declan considered it for a moment. “Okay.” Declan and I had been together for five years, and we were finally about to get married. But the thought of my humiliation and helplessness at the wedding in my past life, clutching my phone desperately under the glaring eyes of the crowd, praying for him to appear and rescue me from my predicament, made it impossible to breathe. Before my dad married my mom, he’d been married once before. I didn’t know anything about their past, nor did I realize that Declan, from the very first day he met me, had been planning to drag me into an abyss.

When Declan pushed the door open, I was huddled in the corner, my face ashen. The trash bin held the pregnancy test I’d hastily hidden. His tall frame blocked the light, and he knelt before me, his handsome brows slightly furrowed. “Feeling unwell?” He carried the scent of a long, dusty day. I knew he was busy, sometimes too busy to pay me much attention. When we first started dating, he was incredibly attentive, and I could revel in his love, doing whatever I pleased. But I didn’t know when, gradually, he had turned into this. Sharp brows, eyes that could charm anyone. But his gaze was dim, hard to read, as if it held so many unspoken things, even when he looked at me gently. I slowly reined in my temper, no longer demanding things from him out of petulance. He loved me, I knew that, but deep down, that love seemed tainted with something else, making me increasingly cautious, afraid to touch it. As he looked at me like that, was he already thinking about how, four months from now, I’d be a part of his revenge plan? Lying on a cold operating table, enduring such agony? A four-month-old baby, its placenta fully formed… they’d have to tear it, *alive*, from my body. What could my dad possibly have done to him to warrant such cruel revenge against *me*? Perhaps the memories of my past life were too unbearable. This time, I didn’t tell him about the pregnancy. I buried my head in my arms, and after a long while, whispered, “It’s nothing. Just a bad stomach. I’ll be fine after a little rest.” Declan’s hand paused, then slowly settled on my head, gently massaging my earlobe. His voice, like his fingertips, held little warmth. “Okay.”

In our five years together, Declan had once told me I was his life. One winter, it snowed for a solid two weeks, a rare sight in our city. Declan, in his dark wool coat, would wait for me at the subway station every evening after work. Then he’d take my hand, and we’d walk under the dim streetlights, our distant home glowing with warmth. Declan didn’t like snow, but he’d said, “Because Cassie likes it, I’m trying to like it too.” But when exactly did he change? Declan gradually became incredibly busy. Sometimes he wouldn’t come home for three or five days, and worse, he’d disappear for a while, barely replying to texts. Yet, every time he returned, he was back to being his gentle, attentive self. Hot meals would be on the table, my clothes washed and neatly folded. It was as if… he was trying to make up for something. The bedroom door opened, pulling me out of my past life’s memories. Declan stood in the doorway. “Cassie, I’m heading to the office.” The office again. Declan had forgotten again. Today was my birthday. In my past life, I’d grumbled, reminding him to come home early to celebrate my birthday, and he’d promised. I’d waited all night, full of hope, only for the candles to burn down into the cake, leaving twenty tiny black holes. Mocking my pathetic ignorance. If he wasn’t going to come back, why promise? This time, I didn’t want to beg him to celebrate my birthday. After a long silence, I suppressed the emotion and quietly replied, “Okay.” No movement from behind me. Oh, I remembered. Every time he left, I was supposed to give him a kiss. Was he waiting for that? I burrowed deeper into the blankets to keep warm and softly said, “I don’t feel well. I’m going back to sleep.” “Okay.” Declan never forced me. He clicked the door shut. The sound of his car driving away drifted up from downstairs. The room returned to a crushing silence. I gathered my strength, and a few minutes later, got up, dressed, and walked out the door. Truth be told, I knew nothing about Declan all these years. He owned a company, but he never let me visit, and he’d always avoided talking about meeting my parents. If that lady at the wedding in my past life hadn’t blurted it out, I’d still be in the dark, a pathetic fool, with no idea how long I’d been played. Five years had built up too much dependence on him. This time, I wanted to break that dependence with my own hands. The late autumn wind was strong, howling around me and whipping my hair. I hailed a taxi by the roadside and gave the address. “Miss, what are you doing heading to the industrial district by yourself?” It took a great effort to force out a strained smile. “Picking up my partner after work…” That was the address of Declan’s company. I’d accidentally seen it on Declan’s phone in my past life; otherwise, he wouldn’t even tell me where his office was. Back then, he often disappeared, sometimes for three or four days at a time. I thought it was because he was so busy with his startup, but was that really it? I gripped my handbag tightly, my blood pounded against my eardrums, a frantic drumbeat. The car slowly pulled over, its headlights bright. The driver lit a cigarette. “Miss, are you sure this is the place?” It wasn’t an office building, but an apartment complex. A gloomy, gray sky hung over the building. The plane trees in front stood stark in the autumn wind, making the scene feel oppressive and somber. The heater was on in the car. I sat there, watching through the glass, as Declan and another woman turned out of the alley. A sharp, tearing pain ripped through my entire body, shredding my soul. Years of waiting and hoping suddenly felt utterly worthless and cheap. The woman was young, slender, wearing Declan’s scarf, her eyes bright and captivating when she smiled. Declan had always said he loved the two dimples that appeared when I smiled. She had them too. She was carrying fresh groceries and Declan’s favorite beer. Declan walked slowly behind her, hands in his pockets, a stylish women’s bag draped over his forearm. He watched her, with a relaxed, doting expression, as she moved gracefully in his sight. His entire focus, his whole world, seemed to be her. They chatted and laughed all the way, disappearing into the building’s entrance. Just as they went inside, the woman turned, pushed him against the wall, and stood on tiptoe. A gust of wind swept by, and the closing security door blocked my view. I could only see her slightly lifted red high heels, swaying happily. The taxi’s hazard lights flashed, ticking rhythmically. The driver flicked his cigarette butt, the ash falling through the window gap… “Look, miss, try to move on. Break it off early.” I slowly clenched my hands. The next second, I suddenly flung open the car door and bolted out. “Declan! You bastard!” My voice was drowned out by the blaring horns. I stumbled, tripped over a manhole cover, and fell hard into a pile of dirty, fallen leaves, scraping my skin. After the cars sped past, the barren main road was empty. The security door swayed crookedly in the wind. The people who had been standing there were gone. It felt like I’d been slapped hard, a stinging, resounding blow. Finally, the driver helped me back into the car. He sighed. “Making a scene won’t help. You can’t force the rain to stop, or someone’s heart to stay. Some things just aren’t meant to be.” … That year, on my birthday, I turned our apartment upside down. Including Declan’s study and bedroom. I frantically searched for proof of his infidelity. I kept at it until the early hours, then collapsed on the floor, clutching my aching stomach, curled into a ball. Nothing. Clean as a whistle. Not only was there no evidence of an affair, but even traces of his own life had been completely wiped clean. His laptop had no password, like a brand new machine, with not a single search history. I had seen Declan sitting at that computer countless times, working on things, but why would he delete everything? The toothbrush, socks, and underwear I’d bought him were all neatly folded. In a hidden corner of the study, I found all the gifts I’d given Declan over the years. Most of them were unopened. It was as if he was deliberately erasing all evidence of my existence in his life… The warmth and happiness I’d painstakingly built over the years suddenly shattered like a fragile bubble. He’d faked his love for me. Behind my back, he’d become a family with another woman.

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Twenty years ago, a day that should have been filled with joy turned into the darkest pivot point of my life. My wife, rushing back to celebrate my birthday, was tragically caught in a multi-car pile-up on the highway. Her life ended right there, in that moment. From then on, an endless wave of guilt drowned me. I always felt like my birthday was what killed her. Carrying this unspoken burden, I became a yes-man to my in-laws, doing everything they asked, as if that could somehow lessen the罪 in my heart. I handed over my publicly listed company, which I’d meticulously built over years, to my in-laws without a second thought. That was the culmination of my life’s work, but at the time, I didn’t spare a single thought for my own future. Not only that, but I also transferred every piece of real estate I owned, one after another, to them. Watching my assets slip away, I felt no hesitation. Stripped of all my income, my life instantly plunged into crisis. To make ends meet, and to pay off escalating medical bills, I had to swallow my pride and become a delivery driver. Rain or shine, I zipped through the city streets, just to earn a little more. But the constant strain eventually broke me. One day, I collapsed from exhaustion and ended up in the hospital. The doctor told me I needed urgent surgery or my life would be in danger, and the surgery would cost ten thousand dollars. For me then, it was an astronomical sum. Left with no choice, I swallowed my shame and asked my in-laws for a ten-thousand-dollar loan for my surgery. To my shock, they showed no pity. Instead, they viciously called me a “vampire,” accusing me of trying to scheme money out of them. No matter how much I begged, they remained indifferent. Finally, because I couldn’t pay, the hospital heartlessly kicked me out. I lay there, alone, on the hospital steps, watching the crowds pass by, my body wracked with pain, my heart consumed by despair. Slowly, I lost consciousness. It wasn’t until after I died, my soul hovering above, that I witnessed the heartbreaking truth. My wife hadn’t died in that car crash at all! She and the male nanny I’d hired to care for my in-laws were living it up, enjoying my money. It was then I understood: everything that had happened was a meticulously planned charade by her entire family, all designed to swindle me out of my fortune! As I was engulfed in boundless regret and fury, the world suddenly spun around me. When I opened my eyes again, I found myself back twenty years, on the very day my wife was supposed to return for my birthday.

“Alex, did you see the news?” Brenda, my mother-in-law, clutched my hand, her face a mask of panic. Her thousand-dollar manicure dug into my flesh like sharp claws. “Celine was in a multi-car pile-up on her way back! I can’t reach her on FaceTime! What are we going to do?” I gazed at her face, no longer young but impeccably maintained, and a chilling realization hit me: I had been reborn. Seeing my silence, Brenda grew more frantic, tightening her grip until her nails practically pierced my skin. “Say something! My daughter was rushing back for *your* birthday!” Just then, Arthur, my father-in-law, burst into my bedroom, his voice booming. “She’s right! Go to the highway right now! Maybe you can still save her!” The familiar dialogue, identical to my previous life, sent shivers down my spine. I scrutinized the two of them. Their faces were etched with anxiety, their expressions panicked. At first glance, they genuinely looked like worried parents. But as I focused, I caught a flicker of calculation in their eyes, a subtle glint that betrayed any genuine concern for their daughter. In my past life, I was completely fooled by their deceptive act. I rushed to the highway, not even bothering to verify the truth. The result? I was severely burned by the explosion, my face practically disfigured, and I didn’t even find a trace of my wife. When I woke up in the hospital, my in-laws cried hysterically, telling me my wife had died in the crash and blaming me for not getting there sooner, which they claimed delayed the rescue. Overwhelmed by self-reproach, I believed it was all my fault. Without a moment’s hesitation, I transferred my company and all my properties to them. Because of my severe burns and grotesque face, no respectable company would hire me. To survive, I had to wear a balaclava to hide my disfigurement and become a delivery driver. I left before dawn and dragged my exhausted body home late at night, earning barely enough to cover my own medical expenses. But I never complained, always believing I owed them. It wasn’t until I met my tragic end under a bridge, my soul hovering above, that I finally saw my wife, who had been “missing” for twenty years. She was sweetly nestled in Marcus Lee’s arms, with their twenty-five-year-old daughter by their side! Marcus Lee was the male nanny my wife had recommended to look after my in-laws. It turned out she had betrayed me long ago. Doing the math, she must have gotten involved with Marcus and had their daughter the year I went abroad. Reborn, I would never let such a disgusting travesty repeat itself. “You’re still hesitating? Are you even human? I should never have let my daughter marry a loser like you!” Brenda saw I was unmoved and, furious, her nails nearly poked my eyes out. Marcus chimed in, feigning concern. “Don’t worry, Auntie. Alex isn’t like that. He loves Celine so much, he wouldn’t just ignore this. He’s probably figuring something out.” “Alex, you must be looking at routes, right? I told you about Celine’s accident half an hour ago.” I glanced at my phone. He had indeed sent me a message half an hour ago. But strangely, the accident had only happened twenty minutes ago! I put on a worried facade, my heart growing colder by the second. “Mom, Dad, after all these years of marriage, I’ve always cherished Celine. Anything she wanted, I bought it for her without a second thought. But –” I said, my face turning red with feigned urgency, “the accident happened in another state. It’ll take at least a dozen hours to drive there. For a flight, only first-class seats are available now.” “The company lost a lot of money recently, so I –” I pretended to be embarrassed to speak, “I really don’t have any money left.” Arthur gritted his teeth and declared, “I’ll buy it!” My teeth instantly clenched in fury. He was a notorious penny-pincher, usually making me pay even his phone bill. The fact that he was willing to spend over ten thousand dollars on a first-class ticket for me now showed how desperate they were to swindle my money. I didn’t want to die in an explosion like in my past life, so I tried to stall for time. “I still have so many things to arrange at the company. But don’t worry, I’ll contact the local rescue team right away. We’ll definitely find Celine.” Seeing that he couldn’t convince me, Arthur suddenly clutched his chest, his legs buckling, and he collapsed onto the floor. Brenda wailed dramatically beside him. “Oh, the horror! My daughter, she’s practically gone, and he won’t even go find her!” “My dear! You can’t be sick! Otherwise, I won’t live either!” I acted even more frantic than them, immediately pulling out my phone and dialing 911. “Dad, don’t worry, I won’t let anything happen to you!” Arthur immediately yelled anxiously, “An ambulance costs money! Are you crazy?” I put on an innocent face. “Dad, Celine is so filial. If she knew I didn’t save you, she’d definitely divorce me. I can’t lose her.” Brenda couldn’t hold back. “No! Celine said you have to go!” I seized on her slip of the tongue. “Celine said that? When? Is she okay?” Marcus quickly pointed out the window. “The ambulance is here!” I didn’t get a chance to press further. I had to follow my in-laws into the ambulance. Marcus didn’t come along, saying, “Alex, you go ahead. I’ll help Uncle Arthur pack some clothes.” I didn’t know what trick he was planning, but I knew it wasn’t good. However, in front of my in-laws, I couldn’t say anything. I just needed to get to the hospital – as long as I didn’t go to the highway. At the hospital, Arthur was wheeled into the emergency room. I pulled a doctor aside and spoke to them in a low voice for a while. When Brenda finally hurried over, breathless, I looked flustered, my words jumbled. “Dad is almost – no, Dad’s perfectly fine.” The doctor looked relaxed. “Your husband is fine. He just had a surge of anger. He’ll be fine after some rest.” The more he said it, the more scared Brenda became. She grabbed the doctor’s hand, urgently asking, “He’s not going to make it, is he? Tell me the truth!” I interjected, pretending to be anxious. “Doctor, my wife took them for a check-up a while ago, and she said my father-in-law has lung cancer.” In my past life, my wife used this exact trick to swindle a huge sum of money from me for Arthur’s “treatment.” I later found out that money was used to raise her and Marcus’s child! Even after I lost everything, they still used “lung cancer” as an excuse to keep demanding money from me. During that time, to earn money, I didn’t even dare to eat vegetables, subsisting on stale bread and instant ramen, sometimes even picking up leftover food from others. Meanwhile, they were living lavishly with my money, scamming me my entire life! “Doctor, no matter how much it costs, as long as you can save my father-in-law, I’m willing to pay.” Brenda’s small eyes darted around. She suddenly collapsed to the floor, sobbing dramatically. “Oh, my poor husband! How could you be so miserable? Your daughter is in a car crash, and now you’re dying too!” “And your son-in-law won’t even go save your daughter! What are we going to do!” The surrounding people instantly looked at me with disdain. I cried out, more distraught than Brenda. “Mom, don’t worry! As long as we can save Dad’s life, I’ll cooperate with the hospital even if it means open-chest surgery!” “I’ll also have someone keep an eye on Celine. Even if she really passed away, I’ll always take care of you. I’ll transfer the house you live in to your names.” Brenda’s eyes lit up. “Really?” She quickly realized her expression was wrong and, remembering my mention of open-chest surgery, asked, “What open-chest surgery?” “Lung cancer can be operated on. They just need to remove the bad part of the lung.” “Don’t worry, I’ll find the most expensive surgeon to operate on him. There definitely won’t be any problems. Even if he can’t be saved, I’ve already bought a prestigious burial plot for him.” Brenda shot up from the floor. “We’re not having surgery!” “He’s not sick! No surgery!” I insisted that Arthur was sick, even pulling out the old lung cancer report they had shown me before and handing it to the doctor. The doctor immediately opened a fast track and sent Arthur to the CT scan room. While waiting for the results, Brenda kept her back to me, texting on her phone. I didn’t need to look to know she was sending messages to Marcus. I also opened my phone and checked the surveillance cameras at the house. That villa was meant for their retirement. Fearing the old couple might not be safe living alone, I had cameras installed, but I never told them, worried they’d feel uncomfortable. Now, it had become a tool for my revenge. On the monitor, Marcus entered my bedroom. He rummaged around for a long time but found nothing. He then called Celine. Less than five minutes later, Celine appeared. She had been hiding nearby the whole time! I watched as she walked straight to the safe, punching in the code. She tried several times, but it was wrong each time. A pang of pain shot through my chest. That code was our wedding anniversary – she didn’t even remember it. Marcus had to remind her, and she went to fetch our marriage certificate. The cabinet was empty; there was nothing there. Celine angrily kicked the wall, cursing, “That bitch! If the property deeds aren’t here, where could they be? And his private seal, why can’t I find any of them?” My body trembled. She actually wanted to transfer all my company assets and properties, so even if I managed to divorce her, I’d be left with nothing, and her family could live happily ever after. Thankfully, a couple of days ago, I had used them as collateral with the bank to expand the company. Finally, Celine declared decisively, “You go to the hospital and find Mom and Dad. Make them figure out a way to get rid of Alex. I’ll think of other ways.” With that, Celine leaned in and kissed Marcus. The two of them couldn’t control themselves and started making out right there. I felt an overwhelming wave of nausea. I wanted nothing more than to rush over and beat those two senseless. But I held back. I knew it wasn’t time yet.

Ten minutes later, the two hastily ended their secret meeting. Celine turned to Marcus. “Go tidy up the bed. Alex isn’t stupid. Don’t leave any traces.” Marcus nodded. “Considering he’s been funding our daughter all these years, I won’t be too hard on him.” “But only if he’s obedient,” Celine added coldly. Hiding in the shadows, listening to their conversation, a chill ran down my spine. All these years of marriage, she always claimed she had health issues and couldn’t get pregnant. I felt sorry for her, not even wanting her to try IVF. I never imagined she had already had a child with someone else behind my back. She wasn’t infertile; she just didn’t want to have *my* child! Then, Celine urged Marcus, “You need to get to the hospital quickly. You have to handle Alex there. If all else fails, have Dad fake his death. Alex is such an idiot, he’ll believe anything.” Half an hour later, Marcus arrived at the hospital empty-handed. He asked me, his face anxious, “How’s Uncle Arthur? Auntie said he was doing really badly. Is it true?” I deliberately raised my voice to attract the attention of those around us. “My father’s still being examined! How could you curse him like that?” Marcus awkwardly glanced at Brenda, then said with a wronged expression, “Auntie, I didn’t mean it. Please put in a good word for me with Alex. My family relies entirely on my salary. If I lose this job, they’ll all starve.” Brenda’s eyes widened. She glared at me, yelling, “Alex! When you’re not home, Marcus takes care of us. He’s like my own son!” “If we’re talking about who’s closer, he’s far more important than you!” Brenda accidentally blurted out her true feelings. What surprised me even more was that Marcus even suggested transferring Arthur to another hospital. From a distance, I saw the attending doctor from that hospital already waiting at the entrance. Even though only her eyes were visible, she looked incredibly familiar. I couldn’t help but stare a little longer. It wasn’t until my gaze fell on her name tag that I understood and smiled. It was Marcus’s sister, Maria. Maria stopped us outside the examination room. She busied herself inside for a while, then had the nurses push my father-in-law into the operating room. I asked, my face full of urgency, “Doctor, why is he going straight to surgery?” “Is it serious? I know a lung cancer specialist in New York who can fly over for the surgery.” Maria looked down, avoiding my gaze. “There’s no time for that. His condition is progressing very rapidly.” “We need to operate and remove the lesion now. I suggest you, as the family, resolve his worries first, give him some hope to live.” Marcus also chimed in, sounding worried. “Alex, Uncle Arthur will definitely want to see Celine when he wakes up. You should go quickly.” I scoffed inwardly. “I’ve already arranged for a rescue team. We’ll have results in an hour. We just need to wait.” Marcus looked agitated. He subtly shot Maria a meaningful glance. Maria understood and turned to enter the operating room. To my surprise, Maria emerged just half an hour later, her face filled with sorrow. “I’m sorry, we did our best. The patient’s will to live was weak. He didn’t make it. He left with regrets.” Even at the end, she didn’t forget to cast blame on me. I asked to see Arthur one last time, but Maria refused without hesitation. “His illness is contagious. You cannot see him.” I pondered for a moment, then pulled out my phone and called the funeral home. “My father-in-law has passed away. Please send someone immediately to pick him up.” “His illness is contagious, so I need the fastest cremation and funeral plan. The burial plot should be the most prestigious. Money is not an issue.” I deliberately spoke loudly. “Even if it bankrupts me, I want him to have a grand send-off!” Brenda, who had been trying to snatch my phone, lunged at me, hitting me and cursing. I dodged her slaps and pressed the doctor again. “Is it still contagious after death? Are the organs contagious?”

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The Antarctic research team had an unofficial ‘dry spell’ ranking, and my name was a permanent fixture at the top. That’s because for eight years of marriage, my wife and I never shared a bed, never touched. Yet, I stubbornly refused to divorce her. She loathed me, saw me as pathetic and malicious, believing I’d selfishly caused the death of her beloved childhood sweetheart. I hated her for being so utterly blind, so heartlessly oblivious. I swore to cling to her for an eternity, ensuring that even in death, her tombstone would bear *my* name, and mine alone. But then the glacier collapsed. She pushed me away, burying herself alive under the ice and snow. “Ash,” she whispered, her voice fading, “if there’s a next life, I’m begging you… please, don’t love me anymore.” By the time they rescued her, she had already suffocated. Not long after, I died in a new mission. When I opened my eyes again, I chose to actively forfeit our engagement. “This research mission,” I declared, “I’ll go.”

“The engagement with Scarlett, wasn’t that something you begged for? Are you really willing to give it up, and take Brandon’s place in Antarctica?” My mother, the Director of the Research Institute, fixed me with a cold, probing gaze. Everyone in the facility knew: Brandon and I weren’t blood brothers, and certainly not by choice. There was no affection, no bond between us. Give up Scarlett, take Brandon’s place suffering under the Antarctic glaciers? Impossible! “You’re just seven days away from finally becoming Scarlett’s husband. And now you want to forfeit?” I parted my tightly pressed lips, cutting off my mother’s probing questions. “Didn’t you always say I was born three minutes before Brandon, and that as the older brother, I should always step aside for him?” Ever since I returned to this family, my mother’s biggest concern wasn’t whether I’d suffered while I was away. No, her fear was that Brandon would be upset by the arrival of an ‘outsider’ in *his* home. In my past life, if I hadn’t reminded her of my father’s dying wish, she would’ve undoubtedly thrown me into that mission in Brandon’s place without a second thought. Seeing my insistence, my mother sighed in relief. She submitted my name to the Antarctic research team and sent notice to the Vance family of the change in their long-standing engagement. The moment I stepped out of the Director’s office, Scarlett walked directly into me. In my past life, she had volunteered to go in Brandon’s stead. When my mother refused, Scarlett went on a hunger strike. I used every method imaginable to coax her into eating. I even had the institute doctors administer IV drips, practically dragging her to complete the wedding. Now, I walked past her, my gaze unwavering, but Scarlett grabbed my arm. I spoke in a cold voice, “The Antarctic expedition is urgent. It’s an order from the higher-ups.” Scarlett clenched her fists. “You know that’s a death sentence! There must be another way!” I chuckled dryly. Nations worldwide are racing to find ways to unlock breakthroughs in human genetics. If we don’t act now, our country will fall drastically behind in the global scientific race! One of us, Brandon or I, had to shoulder the responsibility of venturing deep into the Antarctic storm zone, even if it was a suicide mission. “The higher-ups demanded the Director lead by example, sending her own flesh and blood to Antarctica. No one could stand in the way.” She stared at me intently. “Then why isn’t *he* going?” Her thoughtless question made my pupils dilate almost imperceptibly. I instantly swallowed the urge to tell her the truth. “Think what you like.” “Maybe the outcome you wished for has finally arrived.” I ignored her gaze and walked away. I had intended to tell Scarlett about the change in names, but then thought better of it. Consider it my selfish desire. I couldn’t bear to see her face remain utterly indifferent when she realized *I* was the one being sent to my death. In my past life, at the moment the glacier collapsed, Scarlett pushed me onto the only life raft, burying herself alive beneath the heavy ice and snow. I thought that if I kept giving, kept sacrificing, her heart would eventually warm to me. She gave her life to save mine, and on the very same glacier that had claimed Brandon’s life, she pleaded with me not to love her in the next. So be it. This time, as I head to Antarctica, consider it me repaying the life debt I owe her.

Back in my dorm, I began searching for information on the Antarctic storm zone. It was a place of perpetual, violent storms, incredibly dangerous. In my past life, Brandon had spent six months locating the fossil, but after transmitting the signal, he was immediately engulfed by a storm, his body torn apart on the spot. Later, when the research project resumed, Scarlett was buried alive by a glacier, triggered by a storm, as she tried to save me… I meticulously recalled the storm phenomena observed in my past life, attempting to summarize patterns. After a sleepless night with no breakthroughs, I headed to the cafeteria to grab some food. The moment I sat down, my entire tray of food, soup and all, drenched me. Scarlett grabbed my collar, her dissecting scalpel, still gleaming from its last use, pointed directly at my wide, startled eyes. “Asher Hayes!” I tried to push her away, but she shoved hard, slamming me back against the chair. “Are you insane?!” I twisted her hand, redirecting the blade, but she lunged forward, plunging it towards me. “You knew going into the storm zone was a death trap, yet you still sent a congratulatory message to Brandon! How utterly disgusting are you?” “Just to make me marry you?! Have you no self-respect left?!” The spot on my back where the blade had narrowly missed felt like it had been hit by a jolt of electricity. The icy days and nights of my past life flashed before my eyes, merging with the raw hatred burning in hers. Snapping back to reality, I instantly raised my arm, elbowing the one pinning me down. The scalpel clattered to the floor. “Researcher Vance, are you going to use your life-saving scalpel to kill me?” She froze. “Are you okay? I just… I just…” I picked up the scalpel, placing it on the table, cutting her off. “No matter how dangerous the storm zone is, someone has to go. Will it be any less dangerous if I go?” “Perhaps the wedding isn’t as bad as you think. Maybe it’s something worth celebrating.” Scarlett was speechless. “Watching Brandon die, marrying you… what part of that is worth celebrating?” My limbs felt like they were on the verge of losing control. I clenched my fists and turned to leave. Scarlett, this time, everything will be worth celebrating. Deleting the approval status from my phone, I watched Scarlett, still relentlessly heading towards the Director’s office. I returned with my storm zone research materials, just in time to see Scarlett carefully wiping dust from a good luck talisman with a fine brush. Brandon saw me and asked, “What’s that? For me?” Scarlett, without looking up, replied, “It’s nothing. Just some worthless trinket. I’ll get you something better later.” My turning footsteps startled Scarlett. In her hand was… the good luck talisman my father had specially commissioned from a spiritual advisor after he learned I’d been accepted into the National Academy of Sciences. He said he was just a businessman, too preoccupied with money to truly help me with my academic path. He didn’t care how far I went, only that I stayed safe. Later, when Scarlett suffered a chemical burn during a lab experiment, I gave it to her. Despite Scarlett calling out, I didn’t turn back. Late that night, still unable to sleep, I went out for some air. The good luck talisman, hanging on my doorknob, fell to my feet. I scoffed. I just glanced at it and slammed the door shut. It wasn’t until the soft patter of rain began that I stood by the door for a long time before picking up the talisman.

At the send-off party, Brandon stood, glass in hand, soaking in the mix of colleagues’ fawning praise and barely concealed resentment. The electronic screen in the hall only read, “Farewell to Director Chen’s Son, Journeying to Antarctica,” without specifying a name. The person speaking hadn’t expected me to show up. He paused for a few seconds, then stubbornly continued, “What are you looking at? Brandon is just better than you, his older brother! I heard you grew up in the countryside, right? No wonder you’re such a coward!” Someone else chimed in, “Exactly! They say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, but *this* guy is too chicken to even go to Antarctica! It’s a damn insult to Director Hayes’s and Mr. Hayes’s legacy!” Brandon strode forward, calling out to me by the entrance. “Mom said you *volunteered* for this suicide mission in Antarctica. Smart move. Scarlett loves me so much, if I died down there, would she be so heartbroken she’d live the rest of her life as my devoted widow?” “I’m being so generous, giving you this chance to make history for the Institute. But if our colleagues want to think that, what can I do…?” “I guess I’ll just have to make sure to throw a bigger party when you’re gone, to thank you for ‘looking after’ my wife all these years~” I scoffed, giving him a pointed, knowing look. “You going is certainly a suicide mission. But why would it be for me?” “You barely scraped by with your master’s and doctorate, and now you think you’re better than me—a direct recruit, top of my class at the National Academy? Mom’s been covering for you, cheating you through every assessment. Did you actually believe your scores were anywhere near mine?” Before I could finish, he suddenly staggered backward, feigning alarm. “Brother, even if I shouldn’t be so close to Scarlett, you shouldn’t…” The sound of footsteps was all it took; I knew it was Scarlett. I was about to turn. A burning slap landed across my face. Before I could even register it, another one followed on the other side. Scarlett shielded Brandon behind her like a mother hen protecting her chick, the fury in her eyes almost solid. “I truly underestimated you!” “Brandon is going to Antarctica for everyone’s sake! And at this critical moment, you target him? Are you trying to get him killed?” I shook my head. “There are security cameras here, you…” “Shut up!” Scarlett’s voice rose, her eyes like daggers. “You’ve always been a cowering coward, running from the Antarctic expedition. Fine! But your brother is going to such a dangerous place in your stead, and you not only show no gratitude, you try to harm him!” “An ungrateful snake like you! I shouldn’t have saved you back then; I should’ve just let those kids beat you to death!” “You’re nothing but a stain on Mr. Hayes’s legacy!” My body went rigid, my breath catching in my throat. I couldn’t hear anything, only saw her lips moving. But the lanyard around my neck was violently yanked, snapping me out of my daze. I raised my bloodshot eyes, staring intently at the good luck talisman Scarlett shoved into Brandon’s hand. “What are you doing?!” Brandon whined piteously, “I’m going to Antarctica anyway, Ash, can’t you just let me have this? I just wanted Dad’s blessing and protection…” My eyes never left her face, watching Scarlett’s expression intently. “Don’t tell me you’ve forgotten what that talisman means to me!” Scarlett’s face paled. Seeing Brandon’s hurt expression, she stepped forward and grabbed my arm. “Brandon is leaving for Antarctica soon, Ash! This is about national interest! Don’t be so petty!” “We’re both Mr. Hayes’s sons. I just wanted it to protect Brandon. Mr. Hayes wouldn’t mind…” “After the wedding, I’ll buy you ten, a hundred talismans to make up for it, okay?” I shook off Scarlett’s hand, reaching for Brandon. With a sharp rip, the talisman tore into two halves. Brandon mumbled, “I didn’t mean to!” but the smug triumph in his eyes, fixed on me, was unmistakable. I was about to throw a punch when Scarlett pulled out her scalpel, pointing the tip directly at my forehead. This was the second time she’d used her lab scalpel on me. “Didn’t you hear Brandon say it was an accident?” “Do you really want me to report you for insulting a national hero?!” I let out a bitter laugh, then pulled the corrosive chemical vial from my uniform pocket and rattled it, deliberately showing her the identification number. Watching her panic, my mind flashed back to our past life, how we constantly glowered at each other, each wishing the other dead. Through my hazy vision, I almost saw the look in her eyes as she pushed me, for the very last time. Thwack! Through my tear-blurred vision, I watched the spreading crimson. Scarlett’s hand went slack, her gaze fixated on the scalpel now buried in my chest. Just like every bitter confrontation in our past life, she was always the one going for the kill, and I, always the one holding back. Clutching my chest, I tried to support myself, stumbling towards the door. But my legs gave out, and I fell back into a welcoming embrace, filled with the sweet scent of jasmine. The dampness trickling onto my neck felt unnervingly cold.

Luckily, no vital organs were hit. When my lab colleagues visited me, they mentioned that Scarlett had taken a leave of absence during my recovery to go to the mountains and pray for good luck charms. I bundled up warmly, preparing to leave. As if to help me acclimatize to the cold, it had started snowing here too. Following the fresh footprints, I looked at my door. A pile of good luck talismans hung on the doorknob, the topmost one tattered but mended with clear tape. A sticky note on the door read, “Apology.” I calmly averted my gaze and headed towards the Research Institute’s main gate, turning back for what might be my last look at it. The roar of a helicopter’s propellers filled the air. Scarlett, breathless, lunged towards me. She touched a small patch of skin on my forehead not covered by my fleece hat. “I’m useless. I couldn’t convince the Director.” “Don’t worry. Even if I marry him, my heart will only ever be yours.” She spoke earnestly, snowflakes dusting her hair. I watched her retreating back, a little surprised. Pulling my suitcase towards the helicopter, the festive crackle of firecrackers stopped me in my tracks. It was only then that I remembered: today was also Scarlett and Brandon’s wedding. Scarlett had just sent me an apology gift. Soon, she would receive mine. Reaching the helicopter, the escort personnel took my luggage. As I was about to step inside, I was tightly embraced, the sweet scent of jasmine filling my nostrils. “Are you… angry because I’m marrying Brandon?” So, all those promises were for Brandon. She continued, “I’m so sorry…” “I’ll wait for you to come back, no matter what our circumstances are then. Please, can you stop pushing me away?” She sobbed uncontrollably, as if making a difficult, pre-emptive promise. “If—if you truly don’t come back, I’ll live the rest of my life as your devoted widow…” I grabbed the ladder and silently climbed up, wishing the noise of the helicopter’s propellers was even louder. Through the densely falling snow against the window, I shifted my gaze to the ground. Scarlett, covered in goose-down flakes, looked drained of life amidst the vast whiteness. She pushed away the red wedding umbrella offered by her colleagues, tearing her heart out as she screamed into the sky: “Brandon!” Only when the helicopter’s black speck vanished into the sky did Scarlett, shoulders heavy with snow, return to the Research Institute. Her colleagues entered her room, helping her into a stunning red wedding gown and applying her makeup.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “298497”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller

I was about to leave the upscale restaurant Julian owned when the manager stopped me. “Excuse me, ma’am, you haven’t paid your bill.” I looked at the unfamiliar face, figuring she was new and didn’t recognize me. So, I politely explained, “Just put it on Julian’s tab. He knows.” The female manager swept a disdainful glance over me. “Ma’am, our restaurant is a Michelin three-star. We’ve never had a policy of charging to an account.” She finished speaking, then handed me a printed bill. I glanced down, and my eyes widened. A single meal for half a million dollars. Cutlery Gleam Maintenance Fee: Thirty thousand. Exclusive Air Purification Fee: Fifty thousand. VIP Serenity Service Fee: One hundred thousand. And a bunch of other ridiculous charges. I had no idea my brother was running such a rip-off joint. I was so furious, I actually laughed. “I’m Stella Cross, Mr. Cross’s sister. Tell him to come home and talk to me if there’s a problem.” But she wouldn’t back down. “Can’t afford it, huh? Don’t pretend you’re someone important, trying to mooch off Mr. Cross.” I immediately texted my assistant: *Tell Julian. Either fire this woman, or I’m pulling all my investments.* 1 “Ma’am, don’t waste everyone’s time. Just pay the bill.” Her tone was utterly certain, cutting, as if she’d already branded me as a vain gold-digger trying to skip out on the bill. Several curious glances from other patrons were already turning our way. I frowned, not wanting to waste time on such a ridiculous matter. I pulled out my phone and dialed my brother’s number directly. However, only a cold busy signal answered, and repeated attempts yielded the same result. What the hell is that kid up to on a weekday? I put down my phone and faced the aggressive woman, enunciating each word carefully. “I’ll say it again. My name is Stella Cross. I am your boss, Julian Cross’s, older sister.” “His phone is unreachable right now, but you can check his company account. My picture and information are linked to it.” I thought this was the most direct and effective way to solve the problem. But when the female manager heard my name, instead of verifying anything, she burst into a sharp, grating laugh. She cackled, shaking with malicious glee, drawing even more attention. Then, she abruptly leaned in close to me, lowering her voice to a volume only we two could hear. “Still pretending? I’ve seen that face of yours in my husband Julian’s Ins feed countless times!” “You shameless hussy, secretly seducing my man!” “Now you have the audacity to waltz into his restaurant and try to charge everything to his account? Do you have no shame at all?” I froze for a second, then glanced at her name tag—Tiffany Reed. An overwhelming sense of exasperation washed over me. Julian’s girlfriend, the one he’d been keeping under wraps, not even a single picture he’d bothered to show me. It turned out to be this foolish, venomous woman in front of me. How could his taste be *this* bad? Suddenly, I understood. This half-million-dollar “exorbitant bill” today wasn’t a misunderstanding at all. It was a premeditated humiliation. Before I could even open my mouth, she’d completely lost her patience. “Since this woman wants to dine and dash, we’ll have to restrain her until the police arrive!” She waved her hand backward, and two burly security guards, who had been standing nearby, immediately stepped forward. One clamped his hand over my mouth, while the other wrenched my arms painfully behind my back, twisting them like rope. I struggled violently, but the sheer difference in strength between us made all my resistance futile. They ignored my furious glares and the horrified stares of the other patrons, roughly dragging me toward the back of the kitchen. Then I was thrown heavily into a storage room reeking of disinfectant mixed with stale food. The door slammed shut, cutting off all light and sound from the outside. 2 In the darkness, the female manager said nothing, but raised her high-heeled foot and brutally kicked me in the stomach. The excruciating pain instantly made me curl into a ball, my stomach churning violently. “That’s for spending my man’s money!” “That’s for trying to seduce him!” She shrieked, her voice distorted by jealousy and rage. She looked down at me, towering over me, and ordered the two brawny men: “Beat her! Beat her senseless!” The two security guards, clearly her loyal cronies, didn’t hesitate for a second. A barrage of punches and kicks rained down on me. I bit down hard, swallowing every cry of pain and groan. My bones felt like they were being shattered, my internal organs dislocated. Her shrieks continued. “What do you think you are? Nothing but a pathetic hanger-on!” “I told you I’m his sister! If you don’t believe me, ask Julian! Call him right now, I’ll tell him myself!” I struggled to explain, but the woman in front of me was deaf to my words. Only when my head was swimming and my vision blurring did she raise her hand and call a stop. Her high-heeled foot pressed onto my shoulder as she smiled, looking down at me. “You’d better pay that bill today, and then fork over another five hundred thousand.” “That’s your punishment for seducing my man and spending his money.” “I’m not afraid of things getting messy. Julian will have it all smoothed over for me.” I lay curled up in pain, weakly protesting, “That’s my own money. I told you, if you don’t believe me, ask him.” Her face twisted in anger, and she kicked me again. The two security guards immediately understood, and their fists and feet came down on me once more. I knew she wouldn’t listen to anything I said. If this continued, I might actually die here. After I coughed up a mouthful of blood, I used the last of my strength to fumble for my phone on the cold floor. “Stop… I’ll… I’ll pay.” She seemed pleased with my submission, motioning for the two security guards to stop. She knelt down and patted my swollen cheek. “See? Wouldn’t it have been easier to just do it the easy way? You had to learn the hard way, didn’t you?” “One million, not a penny less.” I lay on the cold floor, gasping for breath, my lungs burning. I ignored her and dialed my best friend Maya’s number. The call connected quickly. “Maya, bring two million to Julian’s restaurant.” “I need it now.” Maya on the other end paused, then a note of alarm crept into her voice. “Stella? What’s wrong? Your voice sounds…” “Don’t ask. Just hurry.” I cut her off and hung up. When Tiffany heard “two million,” her eyes instantly lit up, a flicker of avarice in her eyes. She probably thought I’d been beaten into submission and was voluntarily increasing the payment to beg for mercy. The smug triumph on her face was now impossible to hide. “Smart move.” 3 Maya’s speed was astonishing. Soon, the storage room door was violently pushed open from the outside. Maya stormed in, flanked by two bodyguards. When she saw the blood at the corner of my mouth, my disheveled clothes, and my pathetic form curled on the floor, she gasped in shock. She rushed forward and helped me up. I shook my head, signaling her not to speak, then took the bank card with the sticky-note password from her hand and tossed it to Tiffany. Tiffany took the card and didn’t bother me further, waving her hand dismissively. “If that’s a fake card, I have plenty of ways to find you. Now get out.” I endured the excruciating pain that pierced my bones, and with Maya’s help, I limped out of that disgusting place. Once at the entrance, I thanked Maya. “Thanks, Maya. I’ll pay you back as soon as I sort this out.” She looked at me worriedly. “Don’t worry about the money. But what happened to you?” I let out a bitter laugh. “My brother’s found himself quite the girlfriend. I’ve got a score to settle with him.” I pulled out my phone and found the number for the restaurant’s Vice President. This VP was the actual manager of the restaurant, someone I had personally headhunted, and he was fiercely loyal to me. The call connected. I didn’t waste a single word, my voice devoid of emotion. “You have ten minutes. Fire a manager named Tiffany Reed.” “Otherwise, the Cross family will withdraw all investments from the restaurant, every last penny.” The VP on the other end was scared him witless the moment he heard my voice. He must have heard the weakness and the unsettling tone in my voice, as he frantically agreed, not daring to ask a single question why. I hung up, not pausing for a second, and hailed a cab directly to the police station. Using the clearest, most logical reasoning, I explained everything that had just happened to the officer who received me. After giving a detailed statement at the police station, I went to the hospital for a medical examination. Holding that thin report, the fury of betrayal in my heart felt like it had been doused with hot oil, burning even more fiercely. I needed an explanation. I needed Julian Cross to give me an explanation himself. My assistant located Julian at his own house. My driver and bodyguards were already en route to Julian’s villa. That villa, too, was a gift from me. However, when I arrived, I was greeted by deafening heavy metal music. And the boisterous sounds of men and women emanating from the doors and windows. He was throwing a party. No wonder he hadn’t answered my calls. The villa’s front door was ajar. On a whim, I didn’t push it open immediately. Soon, I heard a familiar female voice, choked with tears. It was Tiffany. She was crying to everyone in the house, painting herself as a poor victim bullied by an arrogant mistress, who was then falsely accused. “…I just asked her to pay her bill, and she threw a million dollars in my face, and then had me fired…” “Julian, she’s too much. She has absolutely no respect for you!” “She just wants to humiliate me, she just wants to break us up!” Inside, Julian’s group of fair-weather friends all indignantly echoed her sentiments. Julian, meanwhile, was loudly comforting Tiffany in his arms, his voice full of tenderness and indulgence. “Tiffany, don’t worry, I won’t let you suffer this kind of injustice!” Then, as if to prove his resolve, he confidently promised everyone: “When I catch that woman, I’ll make her kneel and apologize to you!” Inside, the group of spoiled brats continued to champion Tiffany, shouting about how they would make me pay. “Julian, just say the word, and we’ll drag her out right now!” “Yeah! Let her know who really runs things here!” I couldn’t listen anymore. I raised my hand, and a bodyguard kicked open the villa door. The party music screeched to a halt, and the boisterous laughter instantly vanished. Dozens of stunned eyes collectively turned toward the doorway. “No need to drag me out. I’m right here. Who wants to teach me a lesson?” 4 The air seemed to solidify, leaving only the sharp click-clack of my heels on the floor. Step by step, I walked toward the embracing couple in the center of the living room.

“Ma’am, just a moment. There’s still an outstanding bill for $50,000.” I was about to leave after using the restroom when the owner of the buffet restaurant stopped me dead in my tracks. My jaw dropped at the outrageous sum she mentioned. This place was supposed to be $75 per person, tops! “$50,000? What are you talking about? I already paid for my meal.” She plastered on a sugary-sweet, fake smile. “Our premium restroom is only free for three minutes. Every minute over that costs $10,000. You were in there for twenty-one minutes, so that comes to $50,000.” I frowned, utterly bewildered. “I’ve never heard of any place with such a rule! This is extortion!” “Ma’am, our pricing and operations are perfectly legal and compliant. Our restroom is equipped with luxurious facilities and top-tier amenities. Charging a fee is completely normal.” I almost laughed at her utterly self-righteous attitude. “So, you’re saying if you don’t have money, you can’t even use your bathroom? I’m not paying a cent!” Seeing my refusal, she immediately turned on a megaphone. “Someone’s enjoying premium services and refusing to pay! Everyone, come and judge this for yourselves!” As a crowd started to gather, I quickly SnapChatted the restaurant name to my assistant. “Look up the company behind this place. Acquire it immediately!” … At Brenda’s shout, people swarmed from every direction, surrounding me. “Well, look at her, all dressed up, but won’t pay for a fancy restroom?” “Seriously, if you don’t have the money, don’t use their premium services! This place has a top-notch restroom. If you’re broke, just don’t use it!” A few words of manufactured outrage made Brenda positively gleeful. She stood in the center of the crowd, speaking with a condescending tone. “Ms. Vance, I see you’re a regular here. I’m not completely heartless.” “How about this: pay the $50,000 today, and I’ll give you our most exclusive membership. You’ll get twenty percent off all meals from now on. What do you say?” I nearly choked on my own laughter at her shameless logic. In my entire twenty-something years, I’d never been called a poor, freeloading cheapskate to my face. I took a deep breath, my voice cutting clearly through the buzzing whispers. “Ms. Stone, I will pay every cent I owe for my meal.” “But could you please tell me which law in this country states that a citizen must pay extra for using a restroom provided by a business?” “Law?” Brenda scoffed, a harsh, mocking laugh bursting from her like I’d just told the funniest joke in the world. “Everyone listen! Ms. Vance has such shallow knowledge! Our deluxe restroom package uses top-tier materials and space-grade nano-cleaning technology. Spend an hour in there, and you’ll get a year younger!” “Don’t you understand what high-tech is? Don’t you understand health investment?” Her words immediately sent the crowd into a frenzy. “What? A year younger! Owner, let me in there to try it out, I’ll pay!” “Some people are just cheap, then they blame others for being expensive. They just don’t know quality!” The mood in the room flipped instantly. Just moments ago, there were merely glances of disdain. Now, intense hostility burned in their eyes. Brenda stood on her moral high ground of “technology and health,” watching me smugly. What in the damn hell kind of cult brainwashing was this? Brenda was crazy, and the customers in this place were even crazier! “Fine!” I laughed, fueled by pure rage. “Ms. Stone, since you’re so convinced you’re operating legally and compliantly, then let’s invite the relevant authorities to make an assessment.” I pulled out my phone and called the police right in front of everyone. “Hello, 911? I’d like to report a massive extortion…” 2 Soon, two police officers parted the crowd and walked in. Brenda instantly put on a wronged expression and rushed to meet them. “Officers, thank goodness you’re here! This Ms. Vance enjoyed our premium services but refuses to pay.” “We’re a legitimate business; every single service is registered and approved by the city’s consumer protection board. You have to side with us!” She was quick to throw dirt on my name. The police, of course, wouldn’t just listen to one side. I concisely recounted the events, emphasizing the ridiculously high fee and her so-called anti-aging claims. The lead officer, a middle-aged man, frowned. He looked at the approval documents Brenda handed him, then paused for a moment. My heart sank a little. This shouldn’t be happening. Could Brenda Stone really have such powerful connections? “Ms. Vance, we understand the situation. After verification, this restaurant’s premium restroom service, its pricing standards, and relevant qualification documents… are all in order. On paper, it falls within the scope of legal operation.” Meaning, the charging procedures were all complete. As for the effectiveness of the service, that was commercial advertising and not within their jurisdiction. A louder uproar immediately erupted from the crowd. “Just pay the money, cheapskate!” “The police said there’s no problem, yet she’s still stubborn as hell, how embarrassing!” Brenda’s triumphant smile was blinding. But she still feigned a sigh. “Ms. Vance, why make such a fuss? I run a business, and honesty is the most important thing…” Integrity, my ass! I clenched my fists, barely suppressing the urge to just utterly lose it. If there wasn’t something seriously messed up behind this, I’d eat my hat! I ignored them, quickly unlocking my phone and messaging Chloe Davies, my assistant. [Find out the company behind this buffet restaurant and prepare for acquisition.] [I want the acquisition contract on my desk tomorrow!] After sending the message, I looked at the smug Brenda again. “Ms. Stone, I’ve paid for my meal, but for any illegal charges, I won’t give you a single cent!” I couldn’t be bothered to argue with this crazy woman anymore and turned to leave. Back home, the entryway light was on. Derek was actually home at this hour. Normally, he’d either be out at a work function or working late. I’d just kicked off my heels when he stormed out of the living room, clutching a few sheets of paper. “Aurora Vance! Look what you’ve done!” I glanced at the falling papers – it was a lawyer’s letter. Brenda Stone’s name was signed at the bottom. Huh, she certainly worked fast. “And this!” Derek shoved his phone screen right into my face. Trending on Ins, “Aurora Vance: The Buffet Freeloader” was number one. I tapped on it, and sure enough, there was a candid video of the scene. The comments were absolutely vile. “Freeloading AND calling the cops? This woman has some nerve!” “Girls, doxx her! Make her pay!” My name, my ID — everything had been dug up and laid bare. Brenda, that crazy witch, dared to start a whole online smear campaign! Yet, my boyfriend didn’t care about what I’d suffered. He just kept demanding to know why I’d gotten into such trouble. “Trouble? Derek Hayes, your girlfriend is being falsely accused of extortion, dragged through the mud, and cyberbullied, and all you care about is me embarrassing you?” I pointed to the lawyer’s letter on the floor. “That lunatic owner started this whole mess just because I didn’t pay $50,000 for using her restroom. Does that sound reasonable to you?” Derek’s brow furrowed into a tight knot. “But the police said it was legal, so why didn’t you just pay what you owed? It’s just $50,000, right?” “Just hurry up, record an apology video, pay the money, and this whole thing will be over.” I looked at him as if he were a stranger. “Derek Hayes, are you out of your mind? If you want to be a sucker and a spineless pushover, then go pay her yourself, but don’t drag me into it!” “Aurora Vance!” Derek’s face flushed crimson. He pointed a finger at me and yelled, “You’re utterly unreasonable! Don’t you know the company will fire you for this?” I stared at him coldly, saying nothing. The company was *mine*. If anyone was getting fired, it would be him! Seeing that I still wouldn’t budge, he violently threw his hand up. “Fine, you’re so righteous, so above it all! Let’s see how you get out of this mess!” He grabbed his jacket from the sofa, glared at me, and slammed the door as he left. I lay back on the small living room sofa and checked my SnapChat. Messages from friends popped up continuously. And on Ins, Brenda seemed to have deliberately posted an update to actively spite me. [Taught some cheapskate a lesson today! Couldn’t afford our premium restroom package and still called the cops! What a world!] The post included a smug selfie of her flipping off the camera, with the blurry sign of her pathetic restaurant visible in the background. She really had the nerve! Cyberbullying and acting so arrogant, even after breaking the law. My finger unconsciously scrolled down, curious to see if any mutual friends had commented. Then, in the likes section, I saw a familiar profile picture. It was Derek’s! 3 My mind instantly exploded, buzzing loudly. Luckily, my hand moved faster than my brain, and I immediately took a screenshot. When I refreshed Ins, that red heart ‘like’ had vanished. I clutched my phone, my fingers icy cold. How did Derek know Brenda? All this time, whenever we went to restaurants, I was the one who ordered and paid. Derek never got involved, did he? Suddenly, a hazy memory flashed into my mind. Two months ago, it was Derek who had his arm around my waist, excitedly telling me about this newly opened buffet restaurant. After trying it, I was indeed impressed by their high-quality ingredients. I even considered holding the company’s group dinners there. I stared at the screenshot on my phone, took a deep breath, and called Chloe Davies. There were some things I absolutely had to get to the bottom of. The next day at noon, just as I arrived at my office, the front desk’s internal line rang. “Ms. Vance! Someone’s causing a scene at the front desk, specifically asking for you.” Hearing the panicked tone from the front desk, I had a pretty good idea who it was. Sure enough, as I walked into the office area, I heard Brenda’s shrill, grating voice. “Where’s Aurora Vance? That freeloading bitch who didn’t pay, get out here! Too scared to show your face?” “It’s all because of that jinx! She made me lose a huge contract. So unlucky!” The employees were silent, casting complicated glances my way. “Looking for me?” I pushed past the employees blocking my way and walked toward Brenda, who was surrounded by a few of her restaurant staff. “Well, well, the coward finally dares to show her face?” She swayed her hips, her finger nearly poking my nose. “Aurora Vance, if you know what’s good for you, pay the $50,000 right now! Do you have any idea how much money you’ve cost me?” “Like I give a damn.” I raised my hand, wiped the spittle from my face, and disgustedly pushed her hand away. “It’s all you! Freeloading, then calling the police, causing me bad luck!” She suddenly shot a look to the side. “Hey, Liam, David, drag her out and make her scrub the floors to cleanse this place of her bad juju! Otherwise, business will be impossible!” Those two restaurant employees actually started moving towards me. A collective gasp went through the office. In broad daylight, on my own turf, she dared to have her people lay hands on me? A surge of pure, unadulterated rage shot through me. To hell with reason, to hell with my image! I lunged forward and slapped her hard. “Ah!!!” Brenda clutched her face, stunned for a full three seconds. “Aurora Vance, you dared to hit me!” “Yeah, I hit you! I’m hitting you, you foul-mouthed hag.” I shook my stinging palm. “I haven’t even settled the score with you for cyberbullying me, and you dare to come here and provoke me?” “You just wait!” Brenda was shaking with fury. She pulled out her phone and made a call. “Honey, your company’s employee hit me! Come quick and stand up for me! She’s completely out of control!” Honey? My heart plummeted. No, it couldn’t be that exact connection. After hanging up, Brenda’s expression changed in a flash. “Hear that? My husband is coming out right now to deal with you!” “I advise you to get on your knees and apologize immediately, otherwise, I’ll have my husband fire you!” I laughed, livid. Fire me? I’d like to see who has the guts. The elevator chimed, stopping on my floor. Everyone’s gaze turned towards it. The doors slowly opened. Derek’s anxious face appeared before everyone. Brenda instantly flung herself at Derek like a giddy schoolgirl, clutching his arm tightly. All the employees present gasped. “Honey, you’re finally here! It’s that bitch who freeloaded at my restaurant yesterday, she hit me today! Fire her, make her leave!” Brenda pointed at me, her face alight with undisguised malice and triumph. However, Derek’s face froze. He hadn’t expected such a grand spectacle. So, he didn’t even look at Brenda. His gaze was fixed, unblinking, on me. “Wife? You… why are you here at the company today? If something was wrong, couldn’t you have just told me?” The triumphant look on Brenda’s face instantly shattered. She abruptly released Derek’s arm, stumbling back a step. “You… you called her what?” I didn’t spare a glance at their pale faces. Instead, I turned to Chloe, my assistant. “Chloe, what’s the acquisition progress on The Epicurean Feast? Get the investors behind it here with the contract immediately!” Brenda seemed to snap out of her shock, bursting into loud laughter. “Aurora Vance, have you lost your mind? A broke cheapskate who can’t even afford $50,000 for a restroom, trying to acquire our restaurant? Dream on!” No sooner had she spoken than the elevator chimed again. A middle-aged man in an expensive custom suit stepped out. Brenda’s face instantly lit up with the smugness of finding her backup. “Mr. Sterling! You’re finally here. You have to stand up for me, this bitch, she…” But before she could finish, Mr. Sterling, whom she considered her savior, quickly walked up to me with an almost fawning smile. “Ms. Vance, why are you here in person? I’ve brought the acquisition contract. When would you like to sign?” 4 “Mr. Sterling, what did you call her? She… she’s just a…” The joy and triumph on Brenda’s face instantly crumbled.

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In my past life, I endured a heart-wrenching fate. My husband, Norman Ballard, held me in utter contempt for bearing a low-class Black Dragon. Without a shred of mercy, he took the life of our innocent child. Then, he summoned a thunderstorm to end my life as well. As I lay dying, filled with rage and despair, I spat out a curse, “Drop dead right now!” With my blurry vision, I witnessed our bodies plummeting into the depths of the Dragon Pool. To my astonishment, I awoke to find myself back on the day when Norman was choosing a bride. He wasted no time in picking my sister, a Blue Dragon just one rank above the Black Dragon. The disgust in his eyes was palpable as he looked at me. It didn’t take a genius to figure out that he, too, had been reborn. In the previous life, my sister was a Blue Dragon of humble standing, while I was a Yellow Dragon, second only to the noble Golden Dragon. Back then, Norman had readily chosen me. But life took a cruel turn. My sister married a Yellow Dragon and gave birth to a high-class Golden Dragon, becoming the envy of all. Meanwhile, I gave birth to that low-class Black Dragon after tying the knot with him, and he became the butt of everyone’s jokes. This time around, Norman was convinced that choosing my sister would guarantee him a Golden Dragon offspring. But here was the thing—like begets like. How could a Black Dragon masquerading as a Golden Dragon ever give birth to the real deal? ***** Suddenly, thunder boomed across the sky. Dozens of lightning bolts ripped through the thick clouds and lunged straight at me. I was scorched and battered by the fierce lightning. As I plummeted through the air, I spotted my husband Norman standing outside the reach of the lightning. He stared at me with a cold and vicious look as I sank lower and lower. “With the blood of the Dragon Clan as a curse, I wish Norman to drop dead right now!” I murmured the curse with my last bit of strength. I watched as Norman shifted into his dragon form and fell. Eventually, we plunged into the Dragon Pool together. “Megan, what are you daydreaming about?” Someone beside me gently nudged me. I slowly opened my eyes, and it was my father, Ryan Wesley. Wasn’t I just killed by the thunderstorm? I rubbed my eyes, opened them again, and looked around. This wasn’t a dream. I was reborn, and it was the day when Norman was choosing a wife. Ryan, a high-class Yellow Dragon, asked, “Norman, which of my two daughters will you pick?” Our eyes met. I recalled that in my past life, his eyes were full of tenderness when he looked at me, and he gave me his golden scales without hesitation. But now, all I saw in his eyes was disgust. “Sure, my younger daughter, Sally, is just an ordinary middle-class Blue Dragon. But she’s kind-hearted and virtuous, and she’s got feelings for you. If you two get along, it’d be a great match.” Ryan stroked his beard. My sister Sally Wesley was shyly stealing glances at Norman. The bride-selection of a Golden Dragon was a big deal in the Dragon Clan, crucial for the bloodline. The clan elders had come to witness it. Even though Ryan said that, everyone knew that Norman, a high-class Golden Dragon, should pick me, a high-class Yellow Dragon. However, Norman gave his scales to Sally. Everyone present was shocked. Sally also looked at Norman in disbelief. At that moment, I was sure that Norman, my husband from the previous life, was also reborn. In the previous life, as expected, Norman chose me, the one with a higher rank. And Sally was arranged by Ryan to marry a high-class Yellow Dragon through his connections. At first, Norman doted on me, and we were the talk of the town in the Dragon Clan. But things took a turn after I laid a Black Dragon egg. A Golden Dragon laying a black egg was a huge laughingstock in the Dragon World. Everyone said Norman was a loser. On the contrary, Sally laid a glowing golden egg. Since then, people flocked to their door, and everyone praised her husband for his strength. The humiliated Norman became extremely bad-tempered towards me. He not only scolded me but also often rued not choosing Sally as his wife in front of me. In the Dragon World, there were four attributes—Black Dragon, Blue Dragon, Yellow Dragon, and Golden Dragon, and three ranks—low-class, middle-class, and high-class. The higher the attribute and rank, the rarer and more powerful the dragon, and the higher the family’s status. So, dragons in the clan usually chose mates with higher attributes to have offspring with better bloodlines. Of course, there were exceptions where high-class dragons gave birth to low-class ones and vice versa. Dragons in the Dragon Clan could transform into human forms after reaching adulthood. The humiliation drove Norman to the brink of madness. In a desperate bid to salvage his shattered pride, he started spreading malicious rumors. He claimed I’d had an affair with a low-class dragon, and that was the reason I’d given birth to a low-class Black Dragon egg. In a fit of rage, he punched the unhatched egg, shattering it into pieces. Then, with a wave of his power, he summoned a terrifying thunderstorm. The sky darkened, and thunder roared as if the heavens themselves were angry. Lightning flashed across the sky like fiery whips, and I knew my end was near. Before I could even expose his true identity, I was engulfed by the storm. Norman was a fraud. Beneath his false guise of a high-class Golden Dragon, he was nothing but a low-class Black Dragon.

Ryan was stunned by the outcome, whereas my mom, Emma Wesley, was overjoyed. Without hesitation, she pulled Sally close and began showering her with praise right in front of Norman. “I get you all are curious to know why I didn’t choose Megan,” Norman said, giving a little bow to the elders of the Dragon Clan. My eyelids fluttered. “I won’t marry a two-timing dragon like her,” he said, jabbing his finger at me angrily. The place erupted in a flurry of confusion. “Hey, watch your mouth!” Ryan barked. After all, I was his flesh and blood. “Chill out, sir. Let me explain. I’ve caught her fooling around with those low-class dragons more than once. That’s why I’m off the idea of marrying her,” Norman retorted. “Prove it! You’re just badmouthing me!” I feigned the innocence of my younger self, not keen on letting Norman know I’d been reborn. “Do you really think I, a noble Golden Dragon, would lie about you?” Norman sneered. Ryan eyed me warily, and Emma shot me a dirty look, thinking I’d brought shame to the family. Before I could get a word in, Norman rambled on. “She’s got a rotten moral compass. Even if she’s a high-class Yellow Dragon, her kids would be low-class. Let’s see if I’m right.” Golden Dragons could make predictions, but it took a toll on their essence and blood. Not many dragons were willing to go through with it. Once he said that, the elders and relatives started whispering and gossiping about me. “Fine, we’ll wait and see!” I gritted my teeth, forcing myself to stay composed. I was biding my time for his dragon egg to hatch and expose his true colors. Sally’s wedding was a grand affair. Norman spared no expense, and it became the talk of the Dragon World. As for me, thanks to Norman’s slander, my reputation was in the gutter. Dragons who used to come knocking for marrying me stopped showing up. They were more worried about having low-class offspring than my so-called disloyalty. In the Dragon World, a Golden Dragon’s prediction was no laughing matter. With Norman stoking the fire, the rumors got wilder. People were saying I’d slept with three dragons in one night, and they painted the picture so vividly. Emma thought I was a disgrace and gave me the cold shoulder all day. Ryan was at a loss. I didn’t give a damn. I was done with the whole marriage thing after my past life. Three days after the wedding, Norman brought Sally back for a visit. When he saw me, he started taunting, “Megan, I bet no one wants to marry you now, huh?” “Thanks to you, I’m having a peaceful life,” I shot back. Norman sized me up and scoffed, “Without a mate, your mating season is gonna be a nightmare. You might end up with a wild snake and pop out some freakish thing.” “Yeah, Megan. Stop being so choosy. Just marry a Black Dragon. Otherwise, not just the Dragon World but other races will laugh their asses off at you,” Sally chimed in. It had only been a few days since she tied the knot, and she was already on Norman’s side. The two of them were like two peas in a pod. Of course, Sally and I had never seen eye to eye. Emma was Ryan’s second wife, and Sally and I were half-sisters, so there was never any real bond between us. “Don’t worry about me. Worry about having a high-quality dragon baby first. After all, like father, like son,” I said, smiling as I glanced at Sally’s belly. Norman’s eyes darkened with rage. “What are you talking about? Norman is a rare Golden Dragon. His kids will at least be Golden Dragons. You’re just jealous that Norman picked me,” Sally snapped, raising her hand as if to hit me. Just like old times, she still wanted to push me around. I stepped back, not in the mood to argue. “Good-for-nothing who can’t even lay an egg.”

From behind, Norman’s voice, as gloomy as a storm cloud, echoed through the air. He casually slung his arm around Sally’s shoulders, shouldered past me with a nonchalant air, and sauntered ahead. At the dinner table, Norman was all over Sally like a lovesick puppy. He kept piling her plate high with dishes and dabbing at her mouth with a napkin. They were the picture-perfect newlyweds, in total sync. Ryan, who’d been wary of Norman after his prophecy, seemed to have softened his stance. In the old days, Norman was only mildly considerate of me. But serving me? That was out of the question. In his eyes, I was beneath him, born to serve. Now, he was clearly rubbing it in my face. There were other Golden Dragons out there, not just him. Maybe I could find one to “borrow” sperm from. Borrow sperm! It wasn’t half-bad of an idea. No need to get married, and no one would lose out. Having a Golden Dragon baby would really stick it to Norman and make up for my past-life regret of not becoming a mother. But all the Golden Dragons I could think of were either too old or too young. Where on earth could I find a proper one? ***** “You’re looking for a young Golden Dragon?!” Carol Wilson blurted out. I quickly slapped my hand over her mouth. “Keep it down, will you?” Carol was a magical herb and my alien buddy. “Mmmph.” I let go, and she lowered her voice. “Well, I actually know about an extraordinary Golden Dragon.” “For real?” “Rumor has it that there’s a high-class Golden Dragon living in the Golden Dragon Pool on Elysian Peak. It’s a high-attribute dragon, a once-in-a-century sight in your Dragon World. Even the elders of your Dragon Clan would bow down to it.” “Is it really that amazing?” I was skeptical. Carol had a knack for exaggerating. “Absolutely! They say the golden light from that dragon is so bright it can blind other dragons. Since it went up to Elysian Peak, it’s never come down. And we can’t get up there, either. So, Elysian Peak has turned into a forbidden area.” I lowered my head, lost in thought. Come to think of it, when I was a kid, the clan elders had always warned me to stay away from that mountain. I asked, “How do you know more about this than I do, a full-fledged member of the Dragon Clan?” “I’ve lived for almost a thousand years. How could I not know?” Carol rolled her eyes at me. “Then… hypothetically, if I wanted to ‘borrow’ sperm from it, is it even possible?” “Eh? What!” Another ear-splitting exclamation. I had to clap my hand over her mouth again. “Shh! Don’t let the whole world hear.” “Did I hear you right? Not to mention it’s impossible to get up the mountain now. No one knows what’s going on there after all these years. You still want to go find that Golden Dragon and ‘borrow’ its sperm? You’re just asking for trouble!” I said, “Unless you give it a shot, you’ll never know. Maybe I’ll get lucky and find that Golden Dragon. I’ll use some aphrodisiac incense and sleep with it. By the next day, it’ll have completely forgotten about that steamy night.” Carol was so shocked by my words that her mouth gaped wide enough to fit an egg. I knew the way into that mountain. In my past life, I tagged along with Norman. Desperate to conceal his true self as a Black Dragon, he went on a mad dash to collect forbidden tomes and esoteric cultivation secrets. One particular book made an indelible mark on me. It said that if one mashed up the Elysian Gilded Weed into a pulp and slathered it on one’s scales, one’s body would transform into a gorgeous, long-lasting golden sheen. Norman was hell-bent on getting his hands on that herb. He spent God knew how many hours sifting through over 10 thousand ancient scrolls just to crack the code on entering the Elysian Peak. There, at the southwest foot of the mountain, lay a rock. It was like a fortress, completely unyielding. However, there was a workaround—use high-class dragon blood as a trigger and draw a specific rune on it, and the mountain’s protective barrier would crumble. And amazingly, the image of that rune was still crystal-clear in my head. Back then, Norman took nearly half a bowl of my blood. I was crossing my fingers that he’d return with the herb, but it was a no-go. Instead, he showed up battered and bruised. When I asked him what in the world had happened, he just clammed up and kept his lips sealed. “You’re really out of your mind. That’s a high-class Golden Dragon. If it finds out a low-rank dragon like you has such crazy thoughts, it’ll swat you into pieces with one claw.” Carol waved two leaves around like claws. “What do you mean by ‘a low-rank dragon’? I’m at least a high-class Yellow Dragon.” Carol asked, “Are you serious about this?” “Dead serious.” “I’ve heard about what went down with you in the Dragon World. Considering all the fertilizer you’ve given me, this is the most I can do to help.” With that, Carol plucked the tenderest leaf from her center and held it out to me. “Actually, I’m a fertility herb. If you eat this, you’ll get pregnant on the first try, no doubt about it.” “So, that’s your real deal. You always told me eating you would boost my power and extend my lifespan.” I couldn’t help but let out a couple of chuckles. “Stop laughing at me!” “Okay, okay.” Carol said, “Please come back in one piece. I’m counting on you to fertilize me again.” “Got it.” I waved her off and started making my way towards Elysian Peak.   I followed the method and managed to break the barrier. Suddenly, Elysian Peak revealed itself in all its rawness. From the outside, it was all misty and looked like a magical wonderland. But up close, the whole peak was shrouded in an eerie black haze. The mountain path wound upwards, covered with dry leaves and broken stones. There were no signs of any spiritual animals or the slightest hint of spiritual energy. It was so quiet that even the wind seemed to have deserted the place, just dead silent. “Can’t even see the sun, so why’s it getting hotter and hotter?” I grumbled, wiping the sweat off my face. I remembered what the elders said, that Elysian Peak was full of spiritual energy and perfect for cultivation. But what I saw now was nothing like that. I decided to put off the search for that dragon for a bit. First, I needed to find some water, or I’d die of thirst right there. As soon as I stepped into the mountain, my body started to heat up. I felt dizzy, and a sense of unease crept over me. Thankfully, after a short while, I heard the sound of water. I followed it and found a small pond. I didn’t care if it was dangerous or not. I was burning up, and my mind was a mess. So, I transformed into my dragon form and plunged right in. But the cool water did little to quench the fire in me. I could feel a strange heat down there, and my body became overly sensitive. Damn it! Why did I have to go into heat at this moment? I tried to calm myself down by circulating my inner energy, but it didn’t work well. Even though I was a dragon, sexual desire was a natural thing. That was why our kind looked for mates when we reached a certain age. Otherwise, some of us might just be tortured to death. Damn it! It’d be great if there were another dragon around. I looked around in frustration. Hey! There was a cave in the pond, and it was giving off a faint golden glow. Could this be the Golden Dragon Pool? And inside the cave, was the Golden Dragon? I held my breath and swam into the cave slowly. Sure enough, there was a Golden Dragon coiled around a pillar, eyes closed. This Golden Dragon was even more dazzling than any I’d ever seen. His figure was top-notch among our clan. I didn’t dare to make a sound. I flew over to him and nervously took out the aphrodisiac incense, holding it near his nose. After seeing this Golden Dragon, my desire had become even stronger. In no time, the Golden Dragon suddenly opened his eyes and quickly slid off the pillar. With a loud crash, the pillar collapsed. I quickly flew away, but the dragon charged at me. Judging by those fierce eyes, did the aphrodisiac incense not work? I tried to run, but my body was so weak that I just fell to the ground. The Golden Dragon let out a roar, brushed past me, and flew out of the cave, stirring up the pond water like crazy. Then he rushed back into the cave. Just when I thought it was going to kill me, he said, “Finally, you’re here.” The Golden Dragon started circling around me, then lifted my body up. His body was also burning hot. Our breathing became rapid and chaotic. When our eyes met, I could see the same desire in his eyes. The Golden Dragon spread his scales and wrapped his body around me tighter and tighter. My mind was in a blur. I looked at our intertwined tails. “What? Those are so big!” Under his scales, something was stirring. My heart skipped a beat, and I swallowed hard. I suddenly wanted to run away. Even though I thought so, the heat of passion clouded my mind. I was so weak that I could only let the Golden Dragon have its way with me. This Golden Dragon knew all the tricks. He made me feel so good that I couldn’t help but wonder if the aphrodisiac incense had any effect on it at all. “Like it?” he asked in a hoarse voice, the second thing I’d heard him say. His body entangled with mine, as he took away my last bit of sanity.

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0 In the eighth year of Emperor Xander’s reign, I spent my last winter in the servant quarters of the imperial palace. “I knew it was you who stole it, you little thief! Kneel here for three hours, not a minute less!” the matron yelled as she walked past, kicking me for good measure. I instinctively wanted to dodge but forced myself to stay still and take the blow. If I avoided it this time, there would just be worse punishment later. “How dare you, you insolent wretch! From now on, you’ll kneel here every day. When you finally die kneeling, we’ll roll you up in a ragged mat and toss you in the paupers’ graveyard like your dead mother!” The snow was falling heavier, piling up on my shoulders as if trying to push me into the ground. I stared blankly at the distant snowy landscape, lost in thought. I knew this would only enrage the old hag further, but over the years I had tried every approach – meek submission, fierce resistance. None of it made any difference. They would never let me have peace. I was the daughter of a disgraced official. If my family hadn’t fallen from grace, I would have been their mistress. Once that line between mistress and servant was crossed, we became enemies. Class hatred knew no bounds. “Who’s kneeling there?” “Your Highness, it’s likely a maid being punished for some wrongdoing.” Most of the time my mind was in a fog, but on that day, breaking through the crowd of palace attendants, I looked up and met those eyes. Beautiful eyes sparkling with life, an exquisitely painted flower adorning her forehead – the only splash of red amidst the heavy snow, piercing through the bitter cold of deep winter. But those eyes merely glanced over me before moving on. I lowered my head again, counting the footsteps of the departing entourage. “Get up and come with me.” At last, I was leaving this place where human life was cheaper than dirt. The thick snow quickly covered the footprints I left behind. Little did I know then that in the vast imperial palace, the servant quarters were just one small corner of the man-eating machine. I followed the palace maid for a long while before arriving at a magnificent palace surrounded by red plum blossoms. “This will be your bed. Unless Her Highness summons you, just do some sweeping and cleaning outside the hall,” she instructed. “Yes, I understand.” I gently touched the first real bed I’d had in years. The servant quarters were far behind me now. For the next two weeks, I kept my head down and focused on my work. Eventually I learned that my new mistress was Duchess Keera, who had recently entered the palace. Though a newcomer, she was already highly favored by the Emperor. “Just look at all these plum blossoms – Her Highness clearly loves lively scenes. We must make sure the flowers bloom as vibrantly as possible,” said Luna, the maid who slept next to me. She was refreshingly warm and lively. “But with the weather so cold, surely Her Highness won’t come out to admire the blossoms?” I wondered. Luna sighed. “Even if Her Highness doesn’t come out, how else will she know we’ve taken such good care of the plum blossoms?” “Senior Flora picks plum blossoms for Her Highness every day. The flowers do make it into Her Highness’s chambers.” “You’re quite carefree about it. I wonder when I’ll get to serve inside the chambers.” It was only after leaving the servant quarters that I realized even the lowliest palace maid had clear life goals and plans to achieve them. I had always drifted through life in a numb haze, never thinking about the future. But now I just wanted to tend these plum blossoms well for Her Highness. Perhaps Luna’s constant grumbling moved the heavens. One day the weather suddenly turned fine, and we heard Duchess Keera had invited the other consorts to come admire the flowers. Luna had been inspecting every branch in the garden since dawn, even praying for the blossoms to bloom more vibrantly. She put on the new uniform she’d been saving and the hairpin she’d asked the eunuch buyer to bring back last month. “Once I get to serve inside, I’ll make sure you eat and drink well too. We’ll be able to casually eat or toss out those fancy cakes from the imperial kitchen without a second thought.” Before she could finish daydreaming, the servants preparing for the gathering told us to move further back. Though disgruntled, Luna had no choice but to retreat with me behind the crowd. “Look how arrogant they are. Palace maids really are divided into different ranks. Don’t take it lightly.” I smiled and shook my head, my gaze drifting to the distance. I had never truly seen Her Highness up close. That fleeting glimpse on that snowy day – I felt the entire garden of plum blossoms couldn’t compare to half of Her Highness’s beauty. 0

“Take them away!” I had been sleeping fitfully when I was jolted awake by the commotion outside. Opening my eyes, I saw a group of guards bursting into the room. They grabbed Luna and me, then started ransacking the place, searching for something. My heart sank. In the past, the matron would order people to grab me like this, then always manage to find her belongings in my quarters. After a while, they did indeed find what they were looking for. From the corner of my eye, I caught a glimpse – it was Luna’s new hairpin. We were escorted to the main hall. There, I saw Her Highness and… the Emperor for the first time. I was forcefully pressed to my knees. In front of me, a large group was already kneeling. The hall was deathly silent, the air heavy with the smell of blood and a woman’s agonized screams. The Empress Dowager set down her prayer beads and asked, “Whose hairpin is this?” I heard Luna trembling as she answered, “It… it’s this slave’s, Your Majesty.” “Forgive me, Your Majesties. I have failed in my duties. The Noble Consort has gone into premature labor. The only way to save her life now is to terminate the pregnancy, but I’m afraid she may have difficulty conceiving in the future.” “So be it. It’s fate,” the Empress Dowager sighed softly, approving the imperial doctor’s recommendation. She then turned to look at the Emperor. “Beat her to death,” he ordered. From start to finish, those were the Emperor’s only words before he left. “No… no! Your Majesty, please spare me! Empress Dowager, please have mercy! This slave knows nothing, truly nothing!” Luna struggled desperately, her eyes filled with disbelief and despair. But she was quickly dragged away by the guards. The last time I saw Luna was when she was rolled up in a grass mat and tossed onto a cart. I secretly retrieved her hairpin and placed it in her hand. The hairpin, trampled beyond recognition, had become as dull and lifeless as its owner. This place was still the servant quarters after all. Duchess Keera’s palace lost its former liveliness overnight. Though it was determined that the incident was caused by the hairpin’s scent mixing with the plum blossoms and driving the Empress’s pet parrot into a frenzy that crashed into the Noble Consort, Duchess Keera’s maid was still implicated. Now even the plum trees in the garden had been cut down. Palace dwellers always curry favor with the powerful and step on the weak. Rumors spread that Duchess Keera had offended the imperial heir as soon as she entered the palace, causing the Emperor to completely lose favor with her. With no more duties, I had time to overhear many rumors. Some said the Noble Consort threw a fit after waking up traumatized. Others claimed the Empress Dowager and Empress had been copying Buddhist scriptures for over a month to pray for the lost child’s soul. There were even whispers that the Empress had secretly copied scriptures for the executed parrot as well. But for me, not much had changed. If anything, I had more chances to see Her Highness now. Her Highness often stood at the hall entrance admiring the snow. She would stand there all afternoon, only returning inside after repeated urging from her personal maids. “Do you think Her Highness is heartbroken because His Majesty doesn’t visit anymore?” “Most likely. Our mistress has clearly fallen out of favor. The household department used to be so eager to please, but Senior Flora said she got quite an earful when she went to collect coal today.” I listened to the two young maids whispering in front of me. I had been hearing such talk for days now – surely it must have reached Her Highness’s ears as well. But Her Highness continued to admire the snow and drink tea daily as if nothing was wrong. I privately felt she wasn’t too troubled by it all. One day as I was sweeping snow in front of the hall, I heard a commotion in the distance. “Keera, you poisonous witch! Come out here!” A woman in resplendent palace robes was storming towards the hall with a large group of attendants, clearly intending to barge in. Her Highness happened to be coming out just then. I watched as the woman raised her hand. I knew my chance had come. Slap! I flew forward to block the slap aimed at Her Highness’s face. Noble Consort Liliana sneered, “So you’ve trained yourself a loyal dog!” She raised her hand to strike again. The attendants on both sides finally snapped out of their shock and moved to restrain her. Of course – Noble Consort Liliana. The one who had lost her child and had been causing trouble in the palace for over a month now. The commotion was finally stopped by the Empress, who rushed over. “Liliana, I know you’re devastated by your sudden miscarriage. But His Majesty and I have thoroughly investigated the matter. Duchess Keera was not involved at all. You shouldn’t have made such a scene today.” The Empress sat in the main seat, patiently trying to reason with Liliana. She reached out to take Liliana’s hand in a gesture of comfort. But Liliana violently pulled her hand away. “I lost my child in her palace! It was her maid who did it! How can you say she wasn’t involved at all?” “His Majesty and I personally conducted the investigation. Noble Consort Liliana, do you have any objections?” The Empress’s tone turned cold and stern, all previous gentleness gone. “To think I considered you a newcomer and showed you extra care because of my old friendship with your sister. You invited the entire harem to admire flowers, and I came despite my pregnancy. Keera! Do you have no conscience? My child was only four months along!” Liliana cried hysterically. After a while, she just kept mumbling softly, “My child never even got to call me mother… my poor child…” The Empress looked utterly exasperated. She ordered attendants to carefully escort Liliana back to her palace, then spent quite some time comforting Duchess Keera before finally departing. “Does she make such a fuss every day? Has His Majesty not intervened at all?” “There seem to be urgent matters in court. His Majesty hasn’t entered the harem for over two weeks now.” Duchess Keera nodded in understanding, then turned and asked me to raise my head. She studied me carefully for a long while. Her gaze was still as light as clouds drifting across the sky. “What’s your name?” “This slave is called Aria, Your Highness.” “That’s a good name. From tomorrow on, you’ll be called Morning Dew.”

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