Author: Momo Chan

Wedding anniversary, my husband gifted me a necklace he designed, claiming it symbolized our unique love. But there was a curly hair stuck on the chain. He pretended to be annoyed: “The store clerk was careless, leaving a strand of hair.” However, he didn’t know that I had already seen this necklace in his assistant’s Snapchat two days before. [She wore it for two days and got bored. Just to acknowledge his effort, she posted a picture to praise him.] She even set it so that only I could see it. I pushed away his hand as he tried to help me put it on and casually tossed the necklace into the trash. Asher’s face turned dramatically. “You don’t appreciate my gift at all. Seems like I shouldn’t bother giving you anything in the future.” No problem, I’ll buy my own gifts from now on. But a man who cheats on me, I won’t keep. 0 After confirming tomorrow’s abortion with the nurse over the phone, I turned and walked into the restaurant. “The hospital just informed me about a check-up.” I explained to Asher nonchalantly: “Where were we?” The man across from me stared coldly. “Eloise, are you really going to ruin our fifth wedding anniversary over a hair?” The necklace he picked up again, with its sparkling bowtie, reflected the restaurant lights, stabbing my eyes from this angle. “Asher, you forgot I really hate butterflies?” His anger was first replaced by confusion, followed by embarrassment and awkwardness. Everyone who knows me knows I hate butterflies. My dad, who was my only family at that time, died falling off a cliff while trying to take a picture of a rare butterfly for me. Since then, I can’t stand anything related to butterflies. Asher used to be more attentive to this than anyone else. Even when we went to a department store, he would scout ahead to avoid bowtie products. I didn’t expect him to forget all about this. He awkwardly touched his nose: “I just thought the pattern suited you and forgot about your dislike.” “Eloise, you’re too sentimental, holding on to the past.” I laughed at myself; indeed, too sentimental. I almost forgot this necklace wasn’t meant for me. Imogen got tired of wearing it, and only then did I have the chance to receive this second-hand item. Do I have any right to be picky? I dodged the question: “You’re right, it’s time to let go.” Seeing my mocking expression, a strange look crossed his face, but before he could think more, his phone alerted him to a new message. Seeing how anxious he was, I didn’t need to ask to know it was from Imogen. He replied with a voice message in seconds: “Got it, I’m coming now.” I looked up at his anxious face. Before he could speak, I said calmly: “Is it work requiring overtime? Go ahead.” He immediately put on his coat, kissing my forehead as he left. “Sorry, it’s really urgent at the office. I’ll make it up to you with a romantic celebration on your birthday.” “Thank you, honey, you’re so considerate. I love you.” I quietly watched his hurried back. The man who accused me of ruining our anniversary couldn’t even wait for the meal before leaving. He was in such a rush he left his phone on the table. I lit up the phone to see Imogen’s message: “Red wine steak on the table, I’m in bed, waiting for you.” It was obvious Imogen did this on purpose. She’s Asher’s assistant and must know tonight is our anniversary. This blatant provocation used to make me cry, fearing losing Asher. But now, I feel nothing. Whoever wants this trash of a man can have him. I asked the waiter to dump all the dishes and handed the necklace to a begging woman on the street as I left. She gratefully bowed to me repeatedly. Back home, I dialed Gideon’s number: “Senior, about the scriptwriting job you mentioned last time, I’ve decided to join.” “That’s great, Eloise! Professor Griffin always said you were the best filmmaker. It’s a shame Asher ‘privatized’ you. When you decided to be a housewife, Professor Griffin even cried.” “Please tell Professor Griffin, Eloise took a detour, but Eloise is coming back.” 0

Asher returned home to get his phone, telling me the project needed an all-nighter revision and I should sleep without waiting for him. I pretended not to notice the red marks on his neck and nodded indifferently, continuing to revise the script for the upcoming shoot. He glanced swiftly at it, clicking his tongue with disdain. “You’ve been out of the film industry for so long. Looking at these again is pointless.” I rolled my eyes silently. Ever since becoming a housewife, Asher’s appreciation for my artistic pursuits turned into sarcasm. Seeing my displeasure, he softened his tone. “It’s my fault for not spending enough time with you. That’s why you’re bored and keep flipping through these old things.” He suddenly draped his arm over my shoulder, reaching for my shirt button. “Eloise, let’s have a child. Having a kid with you is better than being idle all day.” He leaned behind me, his breath heavy. I could smell Imogen’s perfume on him. The strong sandalwood scent made me nauseous. I didn’t want to touch him at all. Fresh from her bed, now wanting intimacy with me. Doesn’t he find it repulsive? I excused myself to the bathroom, brushing off his hand, locking the door behind me. Disgust overwhelmed me like a tide. I used to want children so desperately, clinging to him every night to have one. He said he didn’t like kids, so he refused. Now, the child I’m carrying, I got pregnant only by faking taking birth control. I originally planned to reveal it after three months, betting he’d soften and keep the baby. But during a prenatal checkup, I saw him accompanying Imogen for her checkup; she was three weeks ahead of me. Watching him carefully protect Imogen, I realized he didn’t dislike kids, just didn’t want them with me. My heart went cold at that moment, and I immediately switched my registration to schedule an abortion. Now Asher wants a child with me only because he feels guilty about his betrayal, thinking a child would make up for it. I wonder if he’ll break down when he finds out I’d rather have an abortion than have his child. When I emerged from the bathroom, he had already taken a call and left quickly. I was glad for the peace, closing the door and getting a good night’s sleep. The next day, I went to the hospital early. As the cold anesthetic entered my body, tears fell uncontrollably. I’m sorry, baby, I once hoped for you to come, and now I’m sending you away. But I know you’d support my decision. The procedure was over quickly, and when I opened my eyes again, the nurse told me I could go home. “Ma’am, are you alone? Do you want me to call your husband to pick you up?” I shook my head, leaning against the wall to slowly leave. Behind me, I could still faintly hear the nurses gossiping. “So pitiful, her man didn’t show up.” “Love-struck fool. Hospitals can’t cure that.” I smiled wryly to myself; they weren’t wrong. My brain was waterlogged with love for Asher. Now, this is the price I pay. At the hospital entrance, I bumped into a couple. As I struggled to get up, our eyes met. Across from me, Asher was supporting Imogen, looking at me in panic. 0

“Honey, what are you doing at the maternity ward?” I coughed lightly, brushing it off: “Just picking up a test report.” “What about you guys?” My gaze fell on Imogen’s slightly bulging belly, waiting curiously for their explanation. “Imogen’s boyfriend is on a business trip, so he asked me to accompany her for a checkup.” Asher answered hastily, while Imogen cast him a resentful look. I didn’t expose the lie, just responded with a nonchalant “oh.” Suddenly, a loud cry erupted behind us. A pregnant woman, crazed, was charging through the crowd. “Compensation! Heartless hospital, give me back my child!” “It’s a medical dispute, clear the area!” someone shouted. But the hospital was crowded, and she was strong; we didn’t have time to evade. As she was about to crash into Imogen and me, Asher clung tightly to Imogen, shielding her in his arms. Because of my frail body, the force of her collision sent me sprawling to the ground. “So painful…” I clutched my stomach, waves of pain radiating from my abdomen, blood flowing from between my legs. The surrounding people screamed in alarm: “Someone’s bleeding! Someone’s bleeding! Doctor, hurry!” Asher let go of Imogen and rushed over. Seeing my blood, panic flooded his eyes: “Honey, does it hurt? I’ll take you to emergency now.” I was in too much pain to speak, reaching out for him to lift me. “Oh my God, Imogen, it hurts so much, where are you, honey?” Hearing Imogen’s cries, his attention instantly shifted to her. He didn’t even have time to explain why she called him “honey” before instinctively letting go of my hand and running to her. Imogen had scraped her hand on a nearby stone, a small cut bleeding slightly. “It hurts so much, I’m dying, Asher, I’m so scared.” She sobbed in his arms, her pitiful look tugging at his heart as he gently patted her back to comfort her. “It’s okay, I’m here. I’ll take you to the emergency room right away.” He gritted his teeth, lifting her in his arms, heading straight for the emergency room. Only then did he remember I was still sitting where I fell, looking guilty as he said to me: “Imogen’s so spoiled, cries all day over a little scratch, and being pregnant, she’s more urgent. I’ll take care of her first.” “The emergency room is just a few steps away; walk slowly and endure it for a bit.” “I’ll come back to the emergency room for you after I take her to the maternity ward.” She lay sobbing on Asher’s chest, her vulnerable appearance tugging at his heartstrings. He gently patted her back, trying to soothe her. “Don’t worry, I’m here. I’ll get you to the emergency room right away.” With a determined look, he picked her up and rushed to the emergency room. Only when he was leaving did he remember I was still sitting there. With a guilty expression, he said to me, “Imogen is very sensitive. Even the smallest scratch makes her cry all day, and she’s pregnant, so she needs immediate attention. I’ll take care of her first.” “The emergency room is just a short walk away. You can take your time and hang in there.” “I’ll come back for you after I take her to the maternity ward.” I was in such pain that I had to keep my eyes shut. I couldn’t even move my legs, and my lower abdomen felt unbearably heavy. Luckily, since the incident happened right at the hospital entrance, two medical staff carried me on a stretcher to the emergency room immediately. After the surgery and fall, the doctor advised me to stay in the hospital for a couple of days to rest. As the nurse was transferring me to the ward, I overheard a conversation between the nurses. “That pregnant woman had just a small scratch, and her husband made such a scene, rushing her to the emergency room and even kneeling to beg the doctor. It was like something out of a TV drama!” “That’s love for you. A good man like that is hard to find.” I smiled to myself, feeling the irony of it all. A man who leaves his seriously injured wife but kneels for a mistress with a minor scratch is indeed a rare find. Asher and Imogen were becoming more and more repulsive to me. I’ve never felt such a strong urge to leave. 04 After settling into the ward, I turned on my phone and saw Imogen’s Snapchat. There was Asher, wearing an apron and bending over to make chicken soup for her, something he never did for me. Her caption read, “Have you ever tasted his love-filled chicken soup?” It was another post visible only to me, Imogen’s declaration of war was clear. I didn’t respond, just informed the doctor that no family would be visiting, and I could sign any paperwork myself. After all, Asher had probably forgotten all about picking me up. When Imogen saw I wasn’t reacting, she couldn’t resist sending me a private message to taunt me. First, a photo of Asher massaging her feet, then a video of the two whispering intimately, all too unbearable to watch. “He wanted me so many times, my back is sore.” “During it, he kept making me call him something like ‘daddy,’ saying the baby and I are both his precious ones.” Fed up with the harassment, I turned off my phone. After three days in the hospital, I decided to go home. I had discussed with Gideon that to save costs and speed up progress, we would head out to the wilderness for shooting the next day. He was in charge of buying tickets and notifying the crew, while I would go home and pack. When I got home, I found Asher there too. I was puzzled why he wasn’t at Imogen’s place, but he spoke first. “Even if I didn’t pick you up from the hospital that day, there’s no need to turn off your phone for three days and throw a tantrum, right?” I remembered I turned off my phone to avoid seeing their explicit videos, so I answered coldly, “The phone was out of battery.” “Imogen is timid and pampered. Her family and friends aren’t in River City, so I felt sorry for her and helped her first. You’re in your thirties and still jealous of a young girl? Eloise, aren’t you being childish?” “After my dad died, I have no other relatives or friends in this world.” My tone was calm, but his face turned stiff. My dad and I depended on each other. Since he passed away, Asher was the only family I had left. “Eloise, I’m sorry, I forgot. It’s my fault. Are your knees better now?” This jerk only had eyes for Imogen. He even remembered my injury wrong. Tired of his insincere words, I went straight into the room to pack my luggage. He followed, hugging me from behind. “Today is your birthday, and I want to celebrate it with you.” “Imogen said she wants to come and help celebrate too, and apologize. I booked the most popular Michelin restaurant. Let’s have a good meal tonight.” “Wife, you’ll always be the most important person to me.” He kept murmuring sweet nothings in my ear, but I was already beyond caring. Asher was so caught up in his act that he almost believed it himself, his eyes glistening with tears. As the audience, all I felt was profound embarrassment, remembering he could make the same solemn promises to two women. I plugged my original phone in to charge and immediately saw over a hundred missed calls from him and a message from Imogen. “Sis, you must come to dinner tonight. I’ve prepared a big gift for you.” It seemed Imogen planned to confront me tonight, but she wouldn’t get the chance. Still, I was curious about Asher’s reaction. I smirked and handed him a manila envelope. “Sure, I have a gift for you too. Open it at the dinner.” He took the envelope, a hint of hesitation flashing in his eyes as he frowned. “A gift? You don’t work and have no money. What could you possibly give me?” “It’s definitely a surprise. You’ll see when you open it.” At six in the evening, I was at the airport gate, admiring the sunset through the window. The plane would take off in 30 minutes. Asher sent a video call request. “Wife, I’m here. Did you leave yet? Wait, why are you at the airport?” He was in a new suit and had his hair styled, perfect for the upcoming surprise. “Don’t ask yet, just open the gift I gave you.” “This is… a divorce agreement? Wife, is this a joke? Don’t be silly!” Asher’s face was full of panic, his hand holding the divorce agreement trembling. “Shh, I’m not joking, be patient, Asher. There’s more to the surprise.” At this moment, the restaurant waiter brought over a stack of photos just as I’d arranged earlier. Asher, full of doubt, began to flip through them. With each one, his expression grew darker. He probably never imagined that the intimate scenes in the car would be captured on the dashcam and printed out for him to see. The photos scattered helplessly on the floor as he mumbled, “I can explain…” “No need, Asher. You know exactly what you’ve done. Our marriage is over. Starting today, after two years of separation, the divorce agreement will take effect.” “Just focus on being a good dad.”

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On my wedding day, it was exposed that I was tied to the murder of my fiancé’s father. He publicly called off the wedding and placed the ring on my cousin’s finger. I walked down the aisle, scorned by everyone. The hundred billion CEO gave a villa as a dowry to marry me in public, blocking everyone’s mouth. Deeply moved, I accepted. Three years later, I joyfully brought my ultrasound report to his office, only to overhear him talking with his close friend Jude and my cousin. “Are you two betting on whose child it will be? I can’t wait to see her reaction.” It turned out I was just a pawn in their game. Wiping away my tears, I called his business rival, “I have something you want and a million-dollar deal. Interested?” Laughter filled the office, chilling me to the core. “Finn really spoils me. The murder accusation was your doing. She always wanted to have a child with you, not knowing you swapped her fertility pills for birth control.” “If I weren’t curious about whose child it would be, she wouldn’t even have a chance to be a mother.” Finn adjusted his glasses, “Both have a 50% chance of winning. Maybe we should bet on who wins. The loser has to buy at least three villas on the most expensive land for Cora.” Concerned about their pride, they agreed. Cora toyed with my private photos, sitting on the desk, laughing. “I took these photos on the spot, can’t wait to see her face when she finds out the truth.” Finn placed his glasses on the desk with a touch of malice. “No one lets her know!” Cora, with a hint of jealousy, said, “Finn, feeling sorry for her?” “Not quite, just afraid she’ll abort once she knows, making the bet pointless,” Finn replied, engrossed in his papers. The photos annoyed him, so he tossed them precisely outside the door. Quickly, I grabbed the photos and walked out. Everyone’s gaze felt like I was exposed. Back home, I downed a glass of strong liquor. The fiery taste hit my stomach, and tears streamed down. The words from the office replayed in my mind. The day before the wedding, I received an anonymous package. The text and photos exposed my father as a murderer, with the victim being my fiancé’s father. After seeing it, he hugged me and said, “Let’s not let the previous generation’s matters affect us.” But at the wedding, the screen showed the text and photos. His abandonment turned me into an outcast. Finn appeared, offering a villa’s deed as a dowry to marry me, silencing everyone. He claimed he loved me and would never marry another if he couldn’t marry me. His determined gaze moved me. Now, I realize it was all part of their game. No wonder, on the wedding day, Cora looked at me with that strange smile. She mocked my foolishness, proud to have me as her plaything. I once endured bitter medicine hoping for his child. Every night, he handed me milk, and I drank it, unaware of the switch. These three years of companionship were just Finn’s act to gain my trust. Familiar perfume enveloped me from behind, a hand resting on my belly. “I heard you went to the hospital today. Are you pregnant?” Holding the glass I drank from, he said, “If you are, you shouldn’t drink.” Seeing my red eyes, he asked, “Who made my beloved wife cry? I’ll teach them a lesson.” He wiped my tears carelessly. He then asked the maid to remove all the alcohol, telling me to punish anyone I disliked. I shook my head; they were innocent. But he had the maid taken to feed the tigers.

I tried to stop it, but he took me to see it firsthand. “She failed to watch you and let you near alcohol, she deserves it.” His words decided life and death. The bloody scene made me nauseous, and I rushed to the restroom. He looked at me with genuine concern, a stark contrast to his office demeanor. “Let’s go to the hospital. Seeing you like this, I feel bad too.” I stared at his seemingly deep affection and nodded. At the hospital, Cora and Jude were at the obstetrics entrance. The next second, he told the doctor to perform amniocentesis. I realized their intention. The doctor, shocked, said, “The child is just forming, anesthesia can’t be used, it will harm the mother.” “Do it anyway,” his words pushed me into despair. As he approached, I hoped for support. Instead, he reassured, “It’s just to check the child’s health.” I almost applauded his acting skills. Inside, I heard him eagerly tell the doctor, “Check our DNA too.” Outside, people whispered, “No wonder she came for DNA so early. She must’ve done something shameful.” “No anesthesia, it’s definitely not her husband’s child.” The doctor’s demeanor changed to rough indifference. Enduring pain, I slowly exited. The doctor said the report would take a week. Finn wanted to carry me to the car, but Cora left without looking back. Jude followed her, and Finn tossed me aside to chase Cora. Clutching my belly, I struggled to the hospital entrance, blocked by passersby. “How much for a night? Pregnant women must be fun.” “She’s free!” I boarded the waiting car, enduring the insults. Returning home, I found my beloved dog dead in the rain. I ran to hold it. In the distance, I saw Finn bandaging Cora’s wound. After hearing from his men, he glanced at me before returning to Cora. He brought her over, looking down at me. “That mad dog bit Cora, so it’s silenced.” Red-eyed, I said, “It’s always been gentle, never bitten anyone.” Cora weakly caressed her bitten hand, “Nora, are you accusing me of falsely blaming the dog?” “I don’t even know if I should get a rabies vaccine.” Finn waved, and the dog was thrown into the trash. I screamed, “No.” “Nora, it’s just a dog. If you want, I’ll have someone buy another.” Then he left with Cora. The dog was a birthday gift from my parents. I’d told him. Now, because of Cora, it could never accompany me again. I ignored them, retrieving the dog from the trash, giving it a proper burial in the rain.

Inside, I saw his forgotten phone on the table. Ignoring my wet clothes, I unlocked it with Cora’s birthday. Their sweet wallpaper stung my heart. In Snapchat, a pinned chat caught my eye. I clicked it. The screen was filled with their conversations about me. The man I was to marry caught Cora’s eye. Unable to take him openly, she used underhanded means. My fiancé’s father was indeed murdered. But evidence was fabricated to frame my family, leaving my father restless in his grave. Further down, I saw videos of my intimacy in Cora’s hands, and Finn’s message crushed me. “She’s not as good as you. You know how to please.” Cora: “Then come over tonight. It’s your good brother’s turn there.” I pressed on, anger fueling me, ignoring the cold. Two days ago, I learned they long targeted my dog. Cora: “Your dog always barks at me. I’m scared.” Finn: “Come here, then I have a reason to deal with it.” I never imagined those words came from him. Seeing the chat album made my blood freeze. He once urgently needed a necklace for his younger cousin. I agreed, except for my most cherished one. He said, “Wife, you’re so kind. She’s lucky to have a sister-in-law like you.” Now, the necklace hung intact around Cora’s neck. Disbelieving, I checked the cabinet. It was gone. It was my mother’s gift for my 18th birthday. Staring at the photo, Cora’s arm bore a scar similar to mine. I knew her well, she never had scars. Before, we were the closest of cousins. I shared everything with her. After telling her about saving a bloodied Chinese in the Boundless Country, she distanced herself. Busy with work, I didn’t investigate. When we met again, she was Finn’s sworn sister, harboring hatred for me. I finally understood, “So that’s it.” Finn never knew my arm bore a scar, hidden with foundation. Checking the time, I guessed he’d soon return for his phone. I called his business rival. I used to be closest to my cousin, sharing everything with her first. But ever since I told her I saved an injured person in the Boundless Country, she grew distant. Busy with work, I didn’t look into it, and when I saw her again, she had become Finn’s adopted sister, looking at me with deep resentment. I instantly understood, “So that’s how it is.” Finn never knew about the scar on my arm, concealed with foundation. I glanced at the time, knowing he’d soon return for his phone. I dialed his business rival. “I can give you what you want and a million-dollar deal. Are you interested?” “What’s the catch?” “Kidnap me the day after tomorrow.” I gently touched my belly, “Finn will willingly pay for it.” Just as I put the phone down, he walked in, glaring at the phone. He hated anyone messing with his belongings. His demeanor was hostile as he looked at me, “You know everything?” I feigned ignorance, “What should I know?” Finn, seeing my soaked clothes, urged me to change. He didn’t forget to mention he had just taken Cora for a rabies vaccine. Standing in front of the bathroom mirror, I pulled at my skin, unable to smile. Messages on the phone replayed in my mind. I scrubbed myself clean, washing for an entire hour. Just as I came out dressed, I ran into Finn heading in. “I was worried you’d faint since you were in there so long.” “You’re not alone now, you’re two people. Don’t be reckless next time.” Before I could respond, he left in a hurry with his men. I started preparing the divorce agreement and recording.

I went out to the garden for some air, only to be dragged down by Cora. “How dare you treat me like this? I’m carrying Finn’s child.” She sat on the swing, looking down at me provocatively. “I had a friend rush the report; I’ll tell you first.” “The child could be anyone’s but definitely not Finn’s.” Hearing the known truth again pierced my heart. My eyes reddened, glaring at her. “The child I’m carrying is definitely Finn’s! If he knew, he wouldn’t spare you.” Cora laughed, crushing my face. “They’re betting on whose child it is in your belly. The loser has to buy me a villa.” “Turns out the child isn’t theirs but someone else’s.” I wanted to argue, but Jude walked over and pinched Cora’s waist. In my shocked gaze, he picked her up onto the swing, kissing her deeply. “To tell you the truth, when it was my turn, I found a beggar.” “Even a beggar can be with you. If not a bus, then what?” “Who knows whose child is in your belly!” While I was stunned, Jude kicked me, and two voices shouted simultaneously. Cora fell off the swing, and I looked on, confused. Finn had returned at some point, rushing to her side to help her up. “Are you okay? How could you be so careless?” Cora tearfully accused me. “Nora tampered with the swing, causing me to fall.” “Yes, and she also said the child is a bastard, isn’t that insulting you?” Jude quickly added. “Do you dare claim this child is yours?” I glared at Finn, eyes red. “` Feeling guilty under my gaze, he stammered, “It’s not mine! Then whose is it?” “This isn’t an excuse for you to hurt Cora!”

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I grew up alongside Asher, the grandson of Los Angeles’ wealthiest man. Over the course of ten years, I transformed from his doting sister to his undisclosed lover, ultimately becoming the least troublesome among the myriad women surrounding him. Everyone knew I loved him until the day his idealized love returned from abroad. For her, he dismissed all the other women around him, including me. The night I left, he and his friends laughed uproariously. But later, they all said Asher had gone mad. When I got up from bed, Asher was still asleep. The floor was a mess, and my thigh-high stockings were beyond repair. But I had a meeting at the company this morning. I clicked my tongue, rubbed my sore lower back, and rummaged through the drawer. I was sure I had left a pair there last time, but I couldn’t find them. Just then, a whistle sounded behind me, and Asher’s voice was filled with playful teasing. “Hey, Sis, still got that great figure.” I ignored him. “Where are my socks?” He frowned, thinking about it casually, “I think Sasha or Lily from State University took them last time?” “Can’t remember.” I paused my search. Even though it wasn’t the first time I’d heard him say something like that, my heart ached slightly, tinged with self-mockery. After all these years, haven’t I learned yet? I was never special to him. I sighed deeply and stood up to get dressed. But Asher patted the space beside him, like a lazy big cat, heavily implying. “Why are you leaving so early, Sis?” “I have a morning meeting at the company.” He glanced at me and clicked his tongue, “Is it for that piece of land again? Why work so hard? Stay with me this morning. That land will be yours.”

By the time I got to the company, it was already afternoon. My whole body ached, and as soon as I sat down, Dad called, full of praise. “Mimi, you got that piece of land. Well done this time. Stick with Asher, your brother will need you.” I held the phone, looking at the reflection of a twenty-six-year-old woman in the mirror, full of self-mockery. “Dad, I’m not young anymore. There are plenty of eighteen or nineteen-year-old girls around Asher. How do you think I can keep him?” Dad’s voice noticeably paused. “Besides, this is probably the last time Asher takes care of you.” “Why?” The voice on the other end became tense, “Mabel, did you offend him? Apologize quickly! Your brother…” I gripped the phone tightly. My so-called family was so greedy. In their eyes, as long as I slept with Asher, I could bring resources to the family. I could be anything, but not a person. The overwhelming humiliation finally made my tears fall uncontrollably. “Because Nora is coming back.” I didn’t want to say more and hung up the phone. Outside, the secretary knocked cautiously. “Miss Jiang, the gift you requested is ready. Do you want to take a look?” I wiped away my tears, signaling her to bring it in. The watch in the box was beautiful and expensive. A Vacheron Constantin Flying Dutchman. Just like me, a Flying Dutchman that could never find land.

This was the relationship between Asher and me. You could call it a romance or a transaction of interests. I was probably the most obedient woman around him. After all, my dad needed his family. Since high school, I’ve been constantly reminded, “Take good care of the young master of the Asher family.” I carried his backpack, did his homework, and cleaned up his messes. He went from rejecting me and ordering me around to later secretly beating up an older guy who harassed me. I thought I was special. I watched him grow into a handsome and charming young man. Watched as countless beautiful girls surrounded him. Watched him, even after hanging out with one or several of them the day before, proudly drape his arm over my shoulder the next day. “Remember, this is my sister.” His hand was so warm it almost burned me. I watched as my heart sank, yet I had to hide it carefully. Until that night when he got drunk and called me to pick him up. It was hard to get the drunk cat home, and just as I was about to leave, he reached out and grabbed me. He squinted, half-awake, looking at me with deep affection. “Mimi.” When his kiss landed, I didn’t push him away. No confession, no flowers, just pain. But I savored it. I didn’t expect that the next morning, when Asher woke up, he looked at me with such disdain. “Mabel, you really are…” Really what? I sat up in confusion, not even having time to feel shy as Asher went straight to shower, change, and leave. The door slammed with a loud “bang,” and he didn’t even glance at me. I sat on the bed for a long time, not knowing what I had done wrong. Later, I found out. The day before, my dad begged him to invest in our family’s struggling company. Much later, I learned that he was calling out for Nora. He didn’t love me. That bit of girlish affection died before it even started. From then on, he only called me sister. As if it was a kind of exclusive humiliation from him.

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Wedding anniversary, my husband gave me a necklace he designed himself, saying it represents a unique love. But on the chain, there was an obvious curly hair. He pretended to be angry: “The store clerk who packed it was too careless and left their hair.” However, he didn’t know that I had already seen this necklace in his assistant’s Facebook two days earlier. [Worn it for two days, already bored. But since he put thought into it, I’ll post a photo to praise him.] She thoughtfully set it to be visible only to me. I pushed away his hand trying to put it on me and casually tossed the necklace into the trash. Nolan’s face changed dramatically. “You don’t cherish the gifts I give you at all. I guess I don’t need to give you any in the future.” That’s fine. I’ll buy my own gifts from now on. But a man who betrays me, I will never want again. 0 After confirming tomorrow’s abortion procedure with the nurse over the phone, I turned and walked into the restaurant. “The hospital just notified me to go for a check-up,” I explained casually to Nolan, “What were we just talking about?” He stared at me coldly. “Adeline, are you sure you want to ruin our five-year wedding anniversary over a hair?” The necklace he picked back up had a diamond-encrusted butterfly reflecting the restaurant lights, just the right angle to sting my eyes. “Nolan, don’t you remember I hate butterflies?” His anger was replaced by confusion, followed by awkward embarrassment. Everyone who knows me knows I hate butterflies. Years ago, my dad, who was my only family, fell off a cliff and died instantly trying to take a picture of a rare butterfly for me. Since then, I couldn’t stand anything related to butterflies. Nolan used to be more mindful of this than anyone. Even when we went shopping, he would scout ahead to avoid sections selling butterfly-themed items. I can’t believe he forgot about this. He awkwardly touched his nose: “I just thought the design suited you and forgot about your taboo for a moment.” “Adeline, holding onto the past, you’re being too sensitive.” I laughed at myself, indeed being too sensitive. I almost forgot this necklace wasn’t originally meant for me. It was only after Fiona got bored with it that I had the chance to receive this secondhand item. What right do I have to be picky? I replied off-topic: “You’re right, it’s time to let go.” Seeing my sarcastic expression, a strange look flashed across his face, but before he could think more, his phone alerted him to a new message. Judging by his nervousness, it was undoubtedly from Fiona. He replied instantly: “Got it, I’m on my way.” I looked up at his anxious face and spoke calmly before he could: “Is it urgent work requiring overtime? You should go.” He immediately put on his coat, kissed my forehead before leaving. “Sorry, the company’s situation is urgent. I’ll make it up to you with a more romantic celebration on your birthday.” “Thank you, honey, you’re so understanding. I love you.” I silently watched his hurried departing figure. The man who accused me of ruining our anniversary couldn’t even wait for the dishes to arrive before leaving. He was in such a rush he left his phone on the table. I lit up the screen to see Fiona’s message: “Wine and steak are on the table, I’m in bed, waiting for you.” It’s obvious Fiona did it on purpose. As Nolan’s assistant, she must know tonight is our anniversary. Such blatant provocation would have previously made me cry, afraid of losing Nolan. But now, I’m indifferent. Whoever wants such trash of a man can have him. I had the waiter dispose of all the dishes, and as I left, I gave the necklace to a beggar woman on the street. She smiled gratefully. Back home, I called Wesley: “Senior, about the screenwriting position you mentioned last time, I’ve decided to join.” “That’s great, Adeline! Professor used to say you were the most talented filmmaker, but it was a shame Nolan ‘privatized’ you. When you decided to be a housewife, Professor even cried.” “Please tell Professor, Adeline took a detour, but she’s coming back.” 0

Nolan returned home to retrieve his phone, telling me the project required an all-nighter to revise the plan and advising me to sleep without waiting for him. I pretended not to notice the red mark on his neck, casually nodded, and returned to editing the screenplay soon to be filmed. He leaned over for a quick glance and clicked his tongue, full of disdain. “You’ve been out of the movie industry for so long, looking at these scripts is just pretending to love them.” Without a word, I rolled my eyes. Since becoming a housewife, Nolan’s appreciation for my artistic pursuits turned into sarcasm. Seeing my displeasure, he softened his tone. “It’s my fault for not spending enough time with you, leaving you bored to dig through these old things.” He suddenly draped his arm over my shoulder, his hand reaching for my blouse buttons. “Adeline, let’s have a baby. Having a child with you would be better than doing nothing all day.” He leaned against me, his breath heavy. I smelled Fiona’s perfume on him, the incense too strong, making me nauseous. I didn’t want any physical contact with him. He just got out of her bed and now wants intimacy with me. Doesn’t he find it disgusting? I excused myself to the bathroom, pushing his hand away and locking the door behind me. Waves of disgust surged within me. I used to desperately want children, clinging to him every night for one. He said he didn’t like kids and refused. The child in my womb now was conceived after I lied about taking birth control. I planned to reveal it after three months, betting he’d soften and keep the baby. But when I went for a solo check-up, I saw him accompanying Fiona for hers. She was three weeks ahead of me in pregnancy. Seeing how carefully he protected Fiona, I realized he didn’t dislike kids, just the ones I bore. My heart turned cold at that moment, and I immediately changed my registration to schedule an abortion. Now Nolan wants to have a baby with me only because he feels guilty for betraying me, thinking a child could compensate. I wonder if Nolan will be crushed when he finds out I’d rather abort than bear his child. When I emerged from the bathroom, he’d already taken a call and left quickly. I enjoyed the peace, closed the door, and had a good night’s sleep. The next day, I reported to the hospital early. As the cold anesthetic entered my body, I couldn’t help but shed tears. I’m sorry, baby, I once longed for you, but now I have to let you go. But I know you’d support my decision. The procedure was done quickly. When I opened my eyes again, the nurse informed me I could go home. “Ma’am, are you alone? Do you need to call your husband to pick you up?” I shook my head, leaning against the wall as I slowly left. I could still faintly hear the nurses chatting behind me. “So pitiful, her man didn’t show up at all.” “Hopelessly lovesick, even the hospital can’t cure that.” I laughed at myself. They were right; I loved Nolan so much it clouded my judgment. Now, this is the price I pay. At the hospital entrance, I bumped into a couple. As I struggled to stand, the three of us locked eyes. Across from me, Nolan was holding Fiona, looking at me in panic. 0

“Honey, what are you doing in gynecology?” I cleared my throat, brushing it off: “Just picking up a check-up report.” “What about you two?” My gaze fell on Fiona’s slightly swollen belly, waiting for their explanation with interest. “Fiona’s boyfriend is on a business trip and asked me to accompany her for a check-up.” Nolan answered first, while Fiona gave him a resentful look. I didn’t expose them, just responded indifferently. Suddenly, a pregnant woman started screaming, charging through the crowd like a madwoman. “Compensate me! This unscrupulous hospital owes me my child!” “It’s a disturbance, clear the crowd!” a man shouted. But the hospital was crowded, and she was strong. We couldn’t dodge in time. As she was about to knock me and Fiona over, Nolan clung tightly to Fiona, shielding her in his embrace. I was too weak, and her impact threw me hard onto the ground. “It hurts…” I clutched my stomach, pain surging from my abdomen, and bright red blood flowed down my legs. The surrounding people gasped: “Someone’s bleeding! Get a doctor!” Nolan let go of Fiona and rushed over. Seeing my blood, a panic flashed in his eyes: “Honey, does it hurt? I’ll take you to the emergency room now.” I was in too much pain to speak, reaching out to him, hoping he’d carry me. “Oh my God, Fiona, it hurts so much, honey, where are you?” Hearing Fiona’s cries, his attention immediately shifted to her. Without explaining her calling him “honey,” he instinctively let go of my hand and ran to her. Fiona had scraped her hand on a nearby stone, a small wound bleeding slightly. “It hurts, I’m dying, Nolan, I’m so scared.” She whimpered in his arms, her pitiful demeanor making him feel distressed, gently patting her back to comfort her. “Don’t worry, I’m here. I’ll take you to the emergency room now.” He gritted his teeth, picked her up, and headed straight for the emergency room. Only then did he remember I was still sitting there, looking guilty as he said, “Fiona is pampered, a small scratch makes her cry all day. Being a pregnant woman, she’s more urgent. I’ll take care of her first.” “The emergency room is just a few steps away. Walk slowly yourself, hold on.” “After I take her to the maternity ward, I’ll come back to the emergency room for you.” She lay on Nolan, softly sobbing. Seeing her like this tugged at his heart, and he gently patted her back to comfort her. “Don’t worry, I’m here. I’ll take you to the emergency room right away.” He steeled himself, lifted her in his arms, and hurried to the emergency room. As he was leaving, he remembered I was still sitting there and looked at me with guilt. “Fiona is coddled. Even a small scratch makes her cry all day. Plus, she’s pregnant, so it’s more urgent. I’ll take care of her first.” “The emergency room is just a few steps away. You can walk slowly and hang in there.” “I’ll come back to the emergency room to find you after I take her to the maternity ward.” I closed my eyes tightly in pain, unable to move my legs. My lower abdomen felt unbearably heavy. Luckily, the incident happened at the hospital entrance, and two medical staff carried a stretcher to take me into the emergency room immediately. Because I had just undergone surgery and then fell, the doctor suggested I stay in the hospital for two days to recuperate. As the nurse transferred me to the ward, I overheard nurses discussing in the hallway. “That pregnant woman earlier just had a small scratch, and her husband ran into the emergency room carrying her, shouting and begging the doctor like a scene from a drama!” “This is love, you know. A good man like that is hard to find.” I smiled, feeling incredibly ironic. A man who ignores his seriously injured wife and kneels to the doctor for a mistress with a scratch is indeed hard to find. Nolan and Fiona disgust me more every day. I have never felt so desperate to leave.

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On my wedding day, the shocking revelation came: I was responsible for my fiancé’s father’s death. He publicly called off our engagement and, in front of everyone, placed the ring on my cousin’s finger instead. Shamed by the crowd, I made my way down the aisle, not in celebration, but in disgrace. Then, the grandson of New York’s wealthiest man stepped forward, offering a villa as a dowry to marry me, silencing the crowd’s murmurs. Touched by his bold gesture, I accepted. Three years later, with joy in my heart, I brought my ultrasound report to his office, only to stumble upon a conversation between him, his friend Beckett, and my cousin. “So, who do you think the father is? I’m dying to see her reaction.” It turned out I was nothing but a pawn in their cruel game. Wiping away my tears, I called his business rival. “I have something you want, along with a multimillion-dollar proposition. Are you interested?” Laughter echoed through the office, chilling me to the bone. “Declan really has me wrapped around his finger. He orchestrated the murder accusation. She’s been trying to have your child, not knowing her fertility meds were swapped for birth control.” “If I wasn’t curious about whose child it would be, she wouldn’t even have the chance to become a mother.” Declan adjusted his glasses and said, “There’s a 50-50 chance for both of us. Maybe we should bet on whose child it is. The loser buys Adeline three villas on the most expensive land.” With their pride at stake, they agreed. Adeline toyed with my private photos, sitting on the desk, laughing. “I took these photos at the scene. I can’t wait to see her face when she finds out the truth.” Declan placed his glasses on the table, a hint of malice in his voice. “No one should let her find out about this!” Adeline, with a touch of jealousy, said, “Declan, are you feeling sorry for her?” “Not really. I’m just worried that if she finds out, she’ll have an abortion, and the bet will be meaningless.” Declan continued his work without looking up. The photos disturbed him. He casually tossed them but landed them precisely outside the door. Quickly, I grabbed the photos and walked out. The stares from everyone felt like they were stripping me bare. Back home, I poured a glass of strong liquor and downed it in one go. The burning sensation in my stomach brought tears to my eyes, as the office conversations replayed in my mind. The day before the wedding, I had received an anonymous package. The words and photos accused my father of being a murderer, with my fiancé’s father as the victim. He had hugged me and said, “Let’s not let the previous generation’s issues affect ours.” But the wedding I eagerly awaited only brought public humiliation, with words and photos displayed on the big screen, and his abandonment turning me into a social pariah. Declan appeared among the crowd, offering a villa as a dowry to marry me, silencing everyone. He claimed he had loved me all along and if he couldn’t marry me, he wouldn’t marry at all. His determination moved me, but now I know it was all part of their game. No wonder on the wedding day, Adeline’s gaze was filled with a strange smile. She mocked my naivety, proud to have me as her plaything. I endured bitter herbal medicine just to give him a child. The nightly milk I drank before bed, unaware of the person switching it all along. For three years, Declan’s companionship was just a facade to gain my trust. A familiar scent from behind enveloped me as he hugged me, his hand resting on my stomach. “My sources told me you went to the hospital today. Are you pregnant?” He took the glass I drank from, “If you’re pregnant, drinking isn’t good.” Seeing my red eyes, he asked, “Who made my beloved cry? I’ll make them pay.” He wiped my tears carelessly. Then he ordered the maids to remove all the alcohol, telling me to point out anyone who upset me, and he’d deal with them. I shook my head, they were innocent. Yet he had the maid taken away to be fed to the tigers.

I tried to stop him but was taken to see the scene. “She didn’t watch over you, letting you drink alcohol. She deserves to die.” His words could decide life and death. The bloody scene made me nauseous, and I rushed to the bathroom. He looked at me with genuine concern, a stark contrast to his office demeanor. “Let’s go to the hospital. With you feeling this bad, I feel bad too.” I gazed at him, his deep eyes, and nodded along. At the hospital, Adeline and Beckett were at the OB/GYN. The next moment, he asked the doctor for an amniocentesis, and I realized their intention. The doctor was shocked, “The baby is just forming. Anesthesia can’t be used, and it would harm the mother.” “Just do it,” he said, pushing me into despair. I held onto a sliver of hope as he walked over, “It’s just to check if the baby’s okay.” I almost applauded his acting skills. Inside, I heard him impatiently tell the doctor, “Check the DNA for me and him.” The people outside gossiped, “No wonder they’re doing a DNA test so early. She must have done something shameful.” “No anesthesia, it’s definitely not her husband’s child.” The doctor returned, no longer shocked, and was quite rough. I endured the pain, slowly making my way out. The doctor said it’d take a week for the results. Declan wanted to carry me to the car, but Adeline left without looking back. Beckett followed her, and I was left by Declan, who went after Adeline. I clutched my stomach, barely making it to the hospital entrance, blocked by onlookers. “How much for a night? Pregnant women must be interesting.” “She’s free!” I boarded my car amid the insults. Returning home, I found my beloved dog dead in the rain. I ran to hold it. In the distance, Declan was bandaging Adeline’s wound. After his subordinate spoke to him, he glanced my way before resuming the bandaging. He walked over with Adeline, looking down on me. “This mad dog bit Adeline. It needed to be quieted forever.” My eyes reddened as I looked at him. “It’s gentle, never bites.” Adeline weakly touched her bitten hand, catching my eye. “Fiona, are you saying I wronged the dog?” “I don’t even know if I should get a rabies shot.” Declan waved, and the dog was tossed into the trash. I screamed in horror, “No!” “Fiona, it’s just a dog. You want one, I’ll get you another.” Then he left with Adeline. The dog was a birthday gift from my parents. I had told him. Now, because of Adeline’s words, it’s gone forever. Ignoring them, I braved the rain to retrieve the dog and gave it a proper burial.

Inside, I saw his forgotten phone on the table. Ignoring my soaked clothes, I instinctively entered Adeline’s birthday and unlocked it, revealing their sweet wallpaper. My heart ached. On SnapChat, there was a pinned conversation titled “Only One.” I clicked it without thinking. The screen was filled with their discussions about me. Adeline had set her eyes on the man I was to marry. Unable to take him openly, she resorted to underhanded tactics. My fiancé’s father was indeed murdered, but evidence was fabricated to frame my family, leaving my father restless in his grave. Further down, videos of me in bed were in Adeline’s hands, and Declan’s message left me hollow. “She’s not as good as you. You know how to please people.” Adeline: “Then come over tonight. It’s your good brother’s turn there.” Suppressing my anger, I read on, oblivious to the cold. Recent messages revealed they had plans for my dog all along. Adeline: “Your dog always barks at me. I’m scared.” Declan: “Then come over here, and I’ll have a reason to deal with it.” I never thought these words would come from him. In the chat album below, my blood froze. He had once said he urgently needed a necklace for his cousin. Without hesitation, I agreed, except for my most cherished one, he could take any. He laughed, “You’re the best wife. Having you as a sister-in-law is a blessing for her.” Now, that necklace was perfectly worn around Adeline’s neck. I ran to check my cabinet in disbelief, and it was indeed gone. It was my mother’s gift for my 18th birthday. I stared at the photo, noticing a scar on her arm similar to mine. I had known her for so long, she never had a scar. We were close cousins, sharing everything. But after I told her I saved a bloodied Chinese person in No Borders Country, she distanced herself. With work being busy, I didn’t look into it. When we met again, she was Declan’s adopted sister, seemingly holding a grudge against me. Suddenly, it all made sense. “So that’s it.” Declan never knew about the scar on my arm. I hid it with foundation. Checking the time, he’d be back soon looking for his phone. I called his business rival. I used to be very close to my cousin, sharing everything with her right away. Ever since I told her about saving a blood-covered Chinese person in No Borders Country, she started distancing herself from me. I was too busy with work to delve into it, and when I saw her again, she had become Declan’s adopted sister, as if we held a deep grudge against each other. Suddenly, it clicked for me, “So that’s how it is.” Declan never knew about the scar on my arm, which I always covered with foundation. Glancing at the time, I figured he’d soon return to look for his phone. I dialed the number of his business rival. “I can offer you what you want, plus a million-dollar deal. Are you interested?” “What are the conditions?” “Kidnap me in two days.” I gently touched my belly, “Declan will pay for this willingly.” Just as I put down the phone, he walked in, glaring at the phone’s location, displeased with anyone touching his things. His whole demeanor was tense as he looked at me, “You know everything?” I played dumb, “What should I know?” Declan held his head, noticing my clothes were soaked, and urged me to change. He didn’t forget to mention he had just taken Adeline for her rabies vaccine. I stood in front of the bathroom mirror, pulling at my face, realizing I couldn’t smile. The messages on my phone kept replaying in my mind. I desperately washed myself for an hour. Just as I came out dressed, I saw Declan about to go in. “I saw you were in there for so long, worried you might faint.” “You’re not alone now, you’re carrying someone else too. Don’t mess around like that next time.” Before I could respond, he hurriedly left with his men. I started preparing the divorce agreement and the recording.

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I’m a foster daughter of the Johnson family. During the time when Gideon was temporarily blind due to a car accident, we had an unplanned night together. I ended up having a child with him, but following his family’s arrangements, I left the baby with the Johnsons and moved abroad. Gideon became a single father without even knowing who his child’s mother was. Five years later, I returned to the country and married him. People say I must be open-minded to take on the role of a stepmother at such a young age. But what they don’t know, not even Gideon, is that I am the biological mother of his son, Finn. At noon in the Johnson Corporation’s Legal Department break room, I stand to the side, making coffee. I overhear some colleagues discussing our top boss, the young CEO of the Johnson Corporation. “Mr. Johnson put on a wedding ring two months ago.” “Did our CEO suddenly get married and settle down?” “Why should a wealthy family’s marriage and children be announced to you?” “Just curious. It wasn’t publicly announced. What kind of woman could win over the cold Mr. Johnson?” “Maybe it’s a marriage alliance.” “But on the other hand, Mr. Johnson’s new wife became a stepmother right away.” Their current CEO, Gideon, is a decisive leader, only twenty-seven, very young and promising. Yet everyone knows he already has a son about five years old. The little boy was once brought to the company by Mrs. Johnson herself to see his dad. His delicate features are almost identical to Mr. Johnson’s, clearly showing their blood relation. Looking at Gideon’s timeline, he graduated from the country’s top university. His son, Finn, was born the same year he finished school. At a very young age, just after graduation, Gideon became a father. The little boy has always been raised solely by Gideon. The existence and identity of the child’s mother have always been a mystery. I heard someone among those people say: “More than being curious about Mr. Johnson’s new wife, I’m more curious about what kind of person the mother of the young master was. To make Mr. Johnson a father at just twenty-something.” Just as I left the break room, the department manager called me: “Nora, come with me to the meeting.”

I returned to the country about three months ago. Just a month after returning, I got registered and married to Gideon. It wasn’t a marriage alliance. Not only was I adopted by the Johnson family, but Gideon’s mother also liked me a lot. She insisted Gideon marry me. Almost no one in the company knows that Gideon and I are married because we keep work and personal life separate. I went upstairs for the meeting. In the spacious and bright conference room, I stood in high heels at the front to present the risk assessment report. Sitting at the head of the table was that man, impeccably dressed in a suit, looking exceedingly handsome and dignified. His raised eyes exuded an aloof aura, making people hesitant to approach or offend him. His gaze did not linger on me, as if we were unfamiliar and unacquainted. However, after work, in the Maybach driving out of the company’s underground garage, Gideon and I sat together in the back seat. Returning home, I didn’t see Finn. I asked the butler, “Where’s the kid?” Gideon, handing his suit jacket to the butler, replied softly, “Mom took him to the family estate. He won’t be back tonight.” Not coming back, huh. In the bedroom late at night, I came out of the bathroom after a shower. Gideon’s tall figure was leaning against the headboard. Unlike his impeccable image at the company, his hair was half-wet, one long leg slightly bent, in a lazy posture. He wore a dark, finely made set of loungewear, with the top button undone. The thin fabric outlined a mature and solid physique. During the day, Gideon in a suit was so proper and abstinent that people dared not look at him for fear of desecration. It seemed that such a cold face could never be associated with desire. I used to think so too, but after two months of marriage, I realized Gideon had desires. He even usually took the lead. Since we’re married, we’ve done all we should. He glanced at me, placing the tablet he held between his slender fingers on the bedside table. On the bed, Gideon leaned over me. He didn’t move at first but asked, “Has Mom been urging you to have a child recently?” My silence was my default. Gideon directly said, “Your body, your choice. If you want to have one, I’m completely on board. If not, I’ll refuse Mom and Dad.” We had never discussed such things so clearly before. A few years ago, I was young, and on weekends, when I returned to the Johnson family, he would ask if I was keeping up with my university courses. Suddenly, Gideon was asking if I wanted to have children with him. The leap was so big it made me uncomfortable. My cheeks heated up, thinking of Finn, so I refused: “I don’t want to yet.” “Okay.” Gideon got up to get a condom. When he was particularly forceful, I tilted my head, biting my lip, but couldn’t help softly calling out that familiar title: “Brother! Please, not anymore.” Gideon paused briefly. He was leaning down, his forehead pressing tightly against my sweat-dampened neck and shoulders, nibbling with his lips. He raised his head, came over to kiss my lips, his breath low as he murmured my name, “Nora,” like it was being rolled and bitten in his mouth. “Don’t call me that. It makes me feel like I’m committing a crime.” Maybe because we talked about kids tonight, afterwards, as Gideon got up to tidy up, he said to me: “You don’t have to put yourself in the role of a stepmother. If you don’t like Finn or don’t get along with him, don’t force it.” I almost instinctively retorted, “I like Finn.” “Oh?” Even Gideon was surprised. I opened my sleepy eyes, tentatively asking Gideon, “He’s very cute. Maybe one day his mother will regret…” “Her existence, to me, is just for giving Finn life.” Before I could finish, Gideon interrupted me. Even in the deep darkness, I could feel the oppressive and restless aura emanating from the man beside me. This was a rare emotion for the always calm and composed Gideon in my memory. Finn’s biological mother was his taboo. “Plotting to have a child with me,” Gideon slowly said, “No matter who she is, she should never appear before me again, never be found by me. Otherwise, even if she’s alive, I’ll make her wish she were dead.”

In middle school, my family went bankrupt. My parents fled abroad, leaving me behind. I was taken in by my mom’s former friend, Mrs. Johnson, and raised by the Johnson family. Gideon is a year older than me. Until the year of his car accident, I’d been calling him brother for seven years. The accident wasn’t serious, but it was an extremely rare case. The doctor said it was nerve compression, causing temporary blindness. Yet, after six months of treatment, his eyes still hadn’t recovered. Gideon grew colder and more volatile. All of Harbor City said the future heir of the Johnson Corporation had become blind. Unwilling to accept reality, he still attended a party, and unlike before, his sharpness was dulled. Gideon was drugged and set up. He didn’t know that the Johnson parents and I, worried, also attended the party. I felt something was off and followed him into the room to check on his condition, only to be pinned down by him. After Gideon’s first ravaging, I was sick with fever for two days. The morning-after pill I took in confusion was thrown up. Upon discovering the pregnancy, the Johnson parents who raised me almost begged me. If Gideon never recovered, this child would be the Johnsons’ current hope for the future. Mrs. Johnson asked Gideon, “Nora is gentle, caring. How about letting her stay with you in the future?” Even though Gideon couldn’t see, he remained exceptionally handsome and outstanding. During that difficult time, his response was firm and powerful: “Mom, our intention in adopting her was never to cultivate her into your obedient daughter-in-law. It was to raise her as a daughter.” “Nora is like a sister to me, nothing more. As for that girl that night…” Gideon’s expression turned unsightly, “Is she still alive?” Gideon didn’t know it was me that night. He only saw me as a sister. Even the Johnson parents didn’t dare tell him that the girl he saw as a sister was having his child. Later, while I was preparing for childbirth, I heard about a young and accomplished female ophthalmologist who had been carefully treating Gideon for months. Gideon even trusted her to perform a highly complex and risky surgery. Thankfully, the outcome was very satisfying. Six months after Gideon regained his sight, I had already flown abroad to continue my studies. Later, although the female doctor was young, she was still seven years older than then 22-year-old Gideon. The Johnson parents were not pleased, so they directly brought the six-month-old Finn to his father, Gideon. Upon learning Gideon had a child, the doctor quickly married someone else. No wonder Gideon hated the existence of his child’s biological mother so much. She directly disrupted his past relationship. As for why he later agreed to marry me, it was probably because Mrs. Johnson pushed us hard. Sure, here is the adapted translation: Fortunately, the results turned out to be quite satisfactory. Six months after Gideon regained his sight, I had already flown abroad to continue my studies. Later, although the female doctor was young, she was still seven years older than the 22-year-old Gideon at the time. The Johnson family parents were not pleased at all and directly brought little Finn, who was only six months old, to Gideon, now a father. After learning that Gideon had a child, the female doctor quickly married someone else. No wonder Gideon was so resentful of the child’s biological mother; she had directly ruined a relationship he once had. As for why he was willing to marry me years later, it was probably because Mrs. Johnson pressured us. On the first night after our marriage, I referred to Gideon as “brother.” He said that since we were married, he would embrace the role change. He wasn’t the kind of man to abstain and definitely wouldn’t stay away from his wife. Finn was sent back early. At the dining table, when I got close to him, the little boy interrupted me and asked, “Are you here to take my dad from me?” “I’ll never like you.” “Apologize.” Gideon stopped eating leisurely, with a father’s authority in his eyes. “What about the manners and upbringing you’ve been taught?” Finn stubbornly refused to speak, so Gideon asked the butler to take him to school. I hurried outside and told the butler, “I’ll take him.” It wasn’t until we reached the preschool entrance that the little boy spoke to me, “If you think I’m bothering you, Vivi and her mom invited me to stay at their house.” I teased him, “Is Vivi the girl you like?” He spoke softly, “I just like her mom.” “Her mom is a doctor, sometimes busier than my dad, but she still picks her up from preschool every day after school…” In the morning at the company, I ran into the deputy director of the Tech Department, who came over to greet me. Gossip spread instantly among colleagues. “Nora, what’s going on with you and Declan?!”

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In the fourth year of my involvement with Jasper, my family went bankrupt. His cherished one seized the moment to remark, “It’s the perfect time for her to face some hardships and temper her pampered nature.” Jasper listened to her and abandoned me on a street in a foreign land. Four months later, battered and bruised, I returned to New York. Everyone assumed I would continue to cling to Jasper. Instead, I deliberately avoided him and returned his gifts. I completely severed ties with him. Jasper laughed with his friends, “Finally got rid of that clingy person.” But on the day I left New York, he chased me to the airport, his voice trembling as he pleaded, “Nora, stay, let’s be like we were before, okay?” I smiled and pointed to my slightly bulging belly: “Jasper, look, how can we be like before?” 1 When I returned to New York with all my wounds, Assistant Liam came to the airport to pick me up. When I arrived, the atmosphere in the private room was lively. As I approached, I heard Jasper’s voice, “Seems like Nora has improved, she’s much more well-behaved now.” “Her pampered nature should have been tempered long ago.” “Iris was right, now that Nora’s family is bankrupt, she’s not an heiress anymore.” “If she behaves spoiled like before, who will put up with her?” “Poor Jasper, she’ll cling to you even more now.” Jasper sneered, “Don’t I know? She’s just a clingy person.” At that moment, he saw me pushing the door open. The room, filled with laughter and chatter, suddenly fell silent. I saw shock, surprise, and disbelief in their eyes. Four months ago, I was a radiant, arrogant heiress. Now I was haggard, thin, like a refugee escaping from hell. The always gracious Iris spoke with concern: “Nora, what happened to you? Come in…” But I stood there without moving. I didn’t react as I used to when I saw Iris sitting next to Jasper, writing my displeasure all over my face. Then, getting provoked by Iris’s words, crying in anger, and having a big fight with Jasper. The gatherings always ended unpleasantly, which made many people dislike me. Thinking of these, I found it laughable. “What are you standing there for? Come in already.” Jasper frowned at me, his expression was the familiar disdain and impatience. 2 I lowered my eyes and smiled faintly. “Jasper, thank you for sending Assistant Liam to the airport for me.” “Nora?” “I came today to return this to you.” I took a small box out of my coat pocket and handed it over. It was an ordinary luxury brand necklace. The only birthday gift Jasper had ever given me in all these years. I liked it a lot and cherished it, only wearing it on my birthday. But now, I don’t want it anymore. Jasper didn’t take it, sitting there with a cold face, lips tightly pressed. I hesitated for a moment and placed the box on the table beside him. “Nora, your hand…” A girl nearest to me exclaimed softly. Jasper’s gaze immediately fell on my hand. The back of my hand was full of cracked scars, and my once delicate fingertips had many blisters. They had scabbed over, twisted, deformed, ugly. I pulled my hand back into my sleeve and looked at Jasper again. “Jasper, there’s one last thing I need to do today.” “What is it?” His voice was chilling. “Clinging to you all these years must have been annoying.” I smiled apologetically at him, “I was immature and willful before, I apologize.” “From now on, it won’t happen again.” With that, I didn’t linger and turned to leave. As I stepped out, Jasper called after me. “Nora.” “You better mean it, don’t lie and end up contradicting yourself.” I paused but didn’t turn back. “Okay.” 3 The night my family fell apart, I was still abroad. My beloved dad couldn’t be saved. Soon after, mom liquidated all the assets. She went straight to the United States to seek refuge with my uncle. All she left me was this small apartment. I didn’t blame her for leaving me; I was grateful she didn’t leave me homeless. This bed was small, but compared to squeezing into a basement with seven or eight people abroad, it was so much better. I had the best, soundest sleep in four months. Until the doorbell woke me. Seeing Jasper through the peephole surprised me. But I quickly remembered he had an apartment here too. I opened the door and before he could speak, I said, “Sorry, I’ll move out soon. I’ll list this apartment with a real estate agent.” “Nora, what do you mean?” I don’t know if it was my imagination, but after I said those words, Jasper’s face turned incredibly grim. “I’ll move today, I promise you won’t see me again.” After I said that, I picked up my phone to contact a real estate agent. Just as I dialed, Jasper suddenly grabbed my phone and smashed it on the ground. “You’ve been playing hard to get for four years, haven’t you had enough?” “Sell the apartment, move out? Then end up on the streets in the middle of the night, crying and calling me for help?” “And eventually move into my place, right?” “Nora, can’t you improve a bit, stop playing these tricks?” I looked at my phone shattered on the floor with a pang of heartache. Those months, even filling my stomach was a luxury. This phone was a second-hand one given to me by a kind shopkeeper upon my return. I crouched down, trying to pick up the pieces. Jasper threw his wallet at me, “Go buy a new one, I’ll pay for it.” “So you won’t have an excuse to cling to me again.” With that, he slammed the door and left. Looking at the wallet on the floor, I laughed until tears fell. In the end, I bought the cheapest phone. He was right; it’s best to owe each other nothing. I called Assistant Liam to take Jasper’s wallet. “Miss Nora, I’m sorry, I’m really tied up right now.” “Could you please send the wallet to the company?” I thought for a moment, “Alright, I’ll send it over later.”

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Married for three years without having kids, my wife and I decided to try IVF. After a year, we were thrilled to learn she was expecting quadruplets. The pregnancy was challenging. She was nauseous for months, and her belly grew enormous. The doctor recommended reducing the number of fetuses, but my wife was adamant. “Declan, these are all our children. I can’t bear to lose any of them.” Seeing her exhaustion broke my heart. I promised to protect her and our children for the rest of my life. At six months pregnant, my wife and her friends had a playful bet about the babies’ genders. In the end, it turned out to be three boys and one girl, and my wife won a million-dollar bet. Later, I accidentally overheard a conversation between Fiona and her friends. “Fiona, you’ve outdone yourself. You’ve got Declan raising kids for four different men.” Fiona responded calmly, “Since I can’t give them the title of ‘Mr. Shen,’ I had to give them a child. Declan’s in that role, so it’s his responsibility.” A chill ran down my spine. It turns out, none of the four babies my wife is carrying are mine. “Fiona, you’re incredible, solving all problems with four kids.” Cora added, “Yeah, the fathers of these kids are all stunningly handsome. The children will surely be beautiful.” She sighed, “Jasper was such a loss. He was the heartthrob of our school, but who knew he’d succumb to a terminal illness so soon? Thankfully, Fiona is kind enough to leave him a child, just waiting to be born.” “Gideon adored Fiona for nearly twenty years, loved her but never won her heart. He only wanted a child with her.” Another voice joined in, “Too bad Fiona only has Asher in her heart. So she came up with this IVF plan to stay faithful to Asher while giving them all children.” “I wonder how Declan will react when he finds out? None of the babies Fiona is carrying are his. He’ll be devastated, right?” Fiona answered nonchalantly, “What does it matter if he knows? He shouldn’t have taken a role that wasn’t his.” The others chuckled, “True, even if he finds out, he’ll still take care of the kids. After all, they’re Fiona’s children. Declan went through so much to marry Fiona, enduring everything. No matter how upset he gets, he’d rush back the moment Fiona calls.” Their laughter dripped with malice and mockery. Standing behind the door, I felt a cold shiver travel from my feet to my head. What does this mean? The babies my wife is carrying aren’t mine? For months, I’d talk to them every night, pressing my ear against her belly. Her feet were so swollen she couldn’t walk, and I’d spend an hour each day massaging them. She had no appetite and was often sick, so I cooked and made soups just to help her eat more. I felt for her during the pregnancy, caring for her day and night, even quitting my job. But now they’re telling me the babies aren’t mine? The conversation in the living room carried on, but I couldn’t hear any more of it. I knew Jasper. We went to the same school. He was Fiona’s first love. I heard he died of a terminal illness not long ago, and I felt a pang of sympathy. — I never imagined that even after his death, my wife would be carrying his child. It’s so absurd that it’s hard to believe, a fear I can’t describe creeping up my spine. I struggled to control myself, stopping from immediately bursting out. Outside, they began another round of betting on the babies’ genders. Fiona’s voice occasionally pierced through, making me shiver. Four years of marriage, and I never truly knew my partner. I thought of my wife’s belly, so large it seemed it could burst at any moment, with four babies inside. One is Jasper’s, another is Gideon’s. Who are the other two? I also knew Gideon. He and Fiona grew up together like childhood sweethearts. Loved but never had her. Looking at it this way, Fiona is indeed kind. She didn’t give her heart, so she gave him a child. I suddenly laughed, but it looked worse than crying. If Fiona wanted to give them kids, why make me their dad? The funniest part is, none of the four kids are mine. How could she be so cruel… I clenched my fists, my lips bleeding from biting them. I once believed Fiona endured the hardship of pregnancy out of love for me. Turns out, it was all fake. — Outside, voices rose and fell, so lively. “I bet two boys and two girls.” “I bet all four are boys.” Then a clear male voice spoke up: “Why does everyone say boys? I think girls are great. I bet three girls and one boy.” Turning to Fiona, he asked, “Fiona, do you prefer boys or girls?” The voice was familiar, probably Fiona’s secretary. Fiona answered nonchalantly, “I like both. Boys are better, girls are too delicate.” Cora pressed, “So, Fiona, which do you bet on?” “Asher likes girls, so I’ll bet three boys and one girl.” Asher? So it’s him. I managed a bitter smile. They were flirting under my nose, and I had no clue. I don’t know if they acted too well or if I was just blind. Asher’s voice rang out, “Girls need to be raised delicately.” Fiona laughed, taking his hand. “I think you’re more delicate than a girl. You cried when you burned your hand cooking.” “But it really hurt.” Asher added, remembering something: “Oh right, Declan never seemed to cry. Last time, he fell down the stairs protecting you, broke his leg, and didn’t shed a tear. Has he never cried?” Fiona casually said, “Declan’s tough, doesn’t feel pain. He really hasn’t cried. Unlike you, who cries over a scratch.” Cora chimed in, “That’s because Asher has Fiona’s love. With love, you can afford to be fragile. Without, you just have to tough it out like Declan.” “Yeah, Fiona cares for Asher, worried about him being tired and sleepless with the kids. So she tricked Declan into thinking they’re his, making him a proud dad.” “I’ve noticed Declan looks older these days. By the time Fiona has all four kids, who knows what he’ll be like.” Chapter 3 “If you were lying naked on the bed, Fiona wouldn’t even glance at you. But now…” Their words were crude, punctuated by vulgar laughter that nauseated me. I stumbled back a few steps, my face already pale. I’m human too—how could I not fear pain? But knowing Fiona was carrying my child, I endured everything. Even when she hit or yelled at me, I never uttered a sound of protest. Yet all my endurance was met with comments about my thick skin. I still remember the day the IVF succeeded. Holding her hand, I was filled with worry. “You’ve suffered for our child, Fiona.” When she couldn’t eat due to nausea, I fed her spoonful by spoonful. “Be good, don’t trouble your mom.” Turns out, I was concerned about the wrong person all along. I was just a tool to raise these kids. “I heard pregnancy makes you feel more intense, even more than a non-pregnant woman. Fiona, is that true?” Asher glanced at Fiona apologetically. “Really, I’m almost drained by Fiona.” “Well, that’s because Fiona likes you. Look, she’s feeling so bad, yet she still doesn’t want to touch Declan.” “Hahaha, exactly, you’re not appreciating your luck.” I gritted my teeth to suppress the urge to vomit. I closed my eyes, wiping away the tears on my face. Fiona, I’m done with you this time. And I won’t raise the child in your belly either. 3 By the time I went out, Cora and the others had already left. Only Fiona and Asher were in the living room. I deliberately made some noise to give them time to cover up. I couldn’t confront them yet. Asher’s face still carried a dazed look, pretending to report work to Fiona. “Ms. Shen, there’s an urgent meeting tonight that requires your presence. The car is already waiting at the door.” He turned and saw me, pretending to be friendly: “Mr. Declan.” Then his gaze fell on my wife’s belly, with a knowing smile on his lips. “Ms. Shen’s belly looks even bigger. Mr. Declan, you are so blessed to have her pregnant with quadruplets at once.” I looked at his fake face, too drained to respond. Seeing this, Asher proposed to leave, but he glanced back at Fiona as he reached the door. It seemed like a secret signal. Fiona saw me coming from the first-floor room, frowned slightly, and tested the waters with her tone. “When did you come back? Why didn’t you make a sound?” I looked at the water stains still on her lips, my eyes stinging. It was so obvious, yet I was blind before and didn’t see a thing. I mocked myself with a slight curl of my lips, lowering my gaze. “I was too tired when I got back and fell asleep in the guest room. I just woke up.” Fiona seemed to relax, her face returning to normal. “Today’s prenatal check went smoothly. I promised to let you come along, but something came up at work.” “The doctor said the baby is healthy.” Fiona told me in detail because I usually asked thoroughly in the past.

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The wolf who raised me tore Genevieve’s childhood friend’s favorite white shirt. In response, she called a butcher to cut off the wolf’s paws and throw him into acid. I held him, barely clinging to life, and shouted at Genevieve. “I told you wolves raised me. How is this any different than severing my own father’s limbs?” But Genevieve just stared at me coldly while shielding Asher’s eyes. “You’re just a stray my stepfather picked up from who knows where, trying to deceive me with your words!” The wolf struggled, bloodied, to crawl towards me. I crawled over and held him close. “I stayed to repay the Aiden family’s kindness in giving the wolves a home. You couldn’t bear to let me go and chased me for miles, but it has only brought you harm.” That night, I knelt with the wolf before Nolan’s memorial, bowing several times. “Nolan, the Aiden family’s animal parks are now everywhere. They don’t need my ability to command animals anymore. I should have left long ago.” …… I was about to blow the bone flute around my neck when she struggled to stop me. Wolves repay kindness. The Aiden family took in the weak and sick animals, giving them a home. I knew he wouldn’t want me to destroy the Aiden family unless it was absolutely necessary. The vet shook his head, looking at the bones soaked and cracked by the acid. “Doctor, he used to be the fastest wolf in the forest. Just because he can’t be restored doesn’t mean he should die, right?” I cried out in despair. The wolf tried to wipe my tears with his broken limbs but, realizing he had no paws, curled up dejectedly. I watched over him all night and eventually cried myself to sleep. With a bang, the door was kicked open. The butler dragged me to kneel before the Aiden family hall. Asher lay limply on a soft chair, his collar open, looking lifeless. I was just about to get up when Genevieve slapped me hard. “Asher was bitten by those ungrateful beasts while surveying in the wild! Tell me, did you order them?” She pointed to a nearby iron cage, and I saw a few wolf pups inside, beaten and barely alive. Ignoring the pain on my swollen face, I crawled to the cage to release them, but the butler dragged me away. Genevieve looked down, “You don’t care about the injured people; instead, you care about these beasts! Bury them alive for me!” I dragged myself to the cage. The wolf pups had leg bands I had personally put on them. I had helped deliver them in the forest. Their soft paws rested in my palm as if telling me not to worry. But their low whimpers pained my heart. I gritted my teeth and glared at Genevieve, “They didn’t harm Asher. They said they saw Asher being kidnapped and scared off the bad guys to save her!” Genevieve hesitated, a hint of doubt in her eyes. Asher immediately got up weakly and grabbed Genevieve’s hand. “It was these beasts that hurt me, Genevieve. When have I ever lied to you?” “It must be him up to his tricks again. Who can understand what animals are saying?” “If he really understood, wouldn’t he have let his snake bite you, proving he intentionally hurt you?” Genevieve glared at me angrily and ordered the whole cage to be taken to the back of the villa. Previously, to find a way to save Genevieve, I got bitten by that snake, suffering many wounds, but it turned out the snake wasn’t venomous. And why did the usually docile snake suddenly attack Genevieve? I couldn’t figure it out. Before I could finish, Genevieve approached and grabbed my neck, as if to strangle me. “Then how did I get poisoned? Declan, even lying has its limits! If Asher hadn’t brought the serum, I’d be dead by now.” I broke free from her grip, mimicking a wolf’s posture, baring my teeth on top of the cage. Everyone was too scared to approach. “Anyone who dares to touch them will have to step over my dead body!” Genevieve saw my strange posture and her eyes widened, her tone softening, “I really don’t understand you. Why do you care so much about these beasts and even imitate them?” My heart was full of bitterness. Before, she allowed me to keep all kinds of animals in the villa because I loved them, even saying I was as cute as a little wolf. But after she got bitten by the snake, all those companions were sent away, leaving only the wolf by my side. Yet now she says she doesn’t understand me. I glared at them with red eyes, not letting them approach, but suddenly my head was hit hard, and everything went black. When I woke up, my scalp was in intense pain, and I held my head, rubbing it continuously. A familiar cold voice sounded in my ear, “Didn’t I tell you to go easy? Why isn’t he awake yet?” The butler bowed repeatedly, apologizing. Seeing I was awake, he quickly informed Genevieve. She hurried to the bedside, but just as she was about to sit down, she stopped and couldn’t help but mock me, “Now you know it hurts? You were so stubborn just now. Those beasts are already dead. Just apologize to Asher, and this will be over.” I grabbed her clothes, my voice trembling, “Genevieve, why are you doing this to me?” Her eyes flashed with indifference as she shook off my hand. “Nate was a homewrecker who caused my mom’s death. You’re just a stray he brought back, letting a snake bite me to take over my family’s wealth. What else do you expect?” “I’ve said that as long as you behave, I can let you live well in the Aiden family, but you keep defying me for those beasts.” “Nolan wasn’t a homewrecker! After your mom’s suicide, he and Madam Luke met because of their love for animals—” Crash! Genevieve knocked all the cups and saucers off the table, interrupting me. “You’re going to tell that ridiculous story about being raised by wolves again. I must have been under a spell to believe you before!” With that, she stormed out, her face cold. Watching her back, I felt utterly hopeless. Years ago, Nolan stopped a hunter from shooting me in the wild. He cautiously approached me and was shocked to find I was a naked teenager. I bared my teeth and growled at him, but he extended his hand to me. From then on, he taught me to read and walk upright. With the Aiden family’s wealth, he expanded a large wolf habitat. And I used my unique ability to communicate with animals to help him gather rare data, making the Aiden family a global leader in animal research, earning many patents. He brought me back to the Aiden family, and a few years later, I fell in love with Genevieve. She held my hand and said she’d marry no one but me. Until her childhood friend Asher returned from abroad with photos of her mom cheating with Nolan, and then suddenly got poisoned. After that, Genevieve changed, seeing me as an enemy. My only trusted ally, Nolan’s assistant, came in with a heavy expression. “Young Master Declan, I’ve investigated everything. You need to be prepared.” The assistant handed me the materials. The photos nearly knocked me off my feet! When we got married, Genevieve swore to me. The Aiden family would only send abandoned cubs and animals unable to hunt to zoos, never training them for dangerous performances out of greed. But the documents showed that over the years, the Aiden family built zoos everywhere, capturing rare animals under the guise of animal welfare to expand their collection. In the photos, various animals were cramped in small cages, unable to stand. They used whips to force tiger cubs to jump through fire hoops and monkeys to hold their breath underwater. Cheetahs had their sharp teeth and claws removed for photo ops, and brown bears were chained, unable to move, having bile extracted daily. The cheap and useless ones were euthanized, the valuable ones sold cheaply to circuses. Many of the poor beasts in the photos were my childhood companions. I remembered the joy of running together in the forest, but now their eyes were filled with fear. They lost their habitat to a forest fire, suffering severe injuries. I thought the Aiden family’s zoo would be a refuge, but I unknowingly sent them to hell. Their original habitat was developed into a hunting ground for the rich. Seeing them holding animal heads for photos made me sick to my stomach. I was responsible for their suffering… The assistant supported me with concern, “Young Master Declan! Protecting animals was Nolan’s lifelong goal. Now it’s up to you.” I nodded firmly, gritting my teeth. I had to take the wolf away, blow the bone flute, and make the Aiden family face the consequences! I had the wolf placed in a locked room and limped to the door, but saw a trail of blood leading from the room to the back of the villa. Sensing something was wrong, I rushed over. Before I reached the exit, I heard Genevieve’s voice from inside, “If you want wolf fur, I’ll find you another one. Why—”

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Mom was gravely ill, and her dying wish was to see me get married. I pleaded with my girlfriend, Eloise, for nearly a month before she agreed to marry me. On the day, I waited at the church until nightfall, but Eloise never came. That very day, Eloise’s childhood friend, Lachlan, posted a picture of their wedding rings on social media: “Time flies, it’s been almost a month since we tied the knot.” It was then I realized that on the very first day I started pleading with Eloise, she had already married her childhood friend. At that moment, I received a message from Eloise apologizing. “Jude, Lachlan was forced into a marriage by his family, and I couldn’t stand by and watch him marry someone else, trapping him in a cage.” “We’ll get divorced in three days.” “In three days, I’ll marry you.” Three days later, when Eloise appeared in her wedding dress at the church door, she received only my message: “Eloise, never again.” In the mortuary, I looked at Mom’s face, tears streaming down. Mom raised me by herself, never asking for anything in return. Yet I couldn’t fulfill her final wish. When I learned Mom was seriously ill, I begged Eloise, my girlfriend of six years, to marry me so Mom would know I’d have someone by my side after she was gone. I pleaded with her for nearly a month. But Eloise kept coming up with excuses. On the first day, her childhood friend’s car broke down, and she rushed to help him. The second day, she was helping her childhood friend move and had no time. … On the twenty-sixth day, her childhood friend had a stomach issue, and she went to take care of him. If Lachlan hadn’t posted that picture of their wedding rings today, I would still be in the dark. I imagined countless reasons for Eloise’s behavior, but I never thought she was already married. As I knelt by Mom’s hospital bed until dusk, Eloise called. On the phone, her voice was as gentle as ever: “Why aren’t you home yet? Where are you? I’ll come get you.” I opened my mouth but couldn’t speak. Before, I would have pretended to be angry, letting her coax me, and then waited happily for her to pick me up. But now, I could no longer say a kind word to her. Eloise’s voice had a slight urgency: “Jude, where are you now?” “The hospital.” Eloise was stunned, as if remembering that I’ve been taking care of Mom these days. “I… wait for me, I’ll come to the hospital to be with you.” After the call ended, I held back my grief and started handling Mom’s funeral arrangements. But ten minutes later, she sent me another message: [Jude, I need to help Lachlan with his family, I’ll definitely visit Aunt next time!] I wasn’t surprised. In the past two years, the phrase I’ve heard from her the most is: [Next time for sure.] Missing our anniversary, next time for sure. Promised to meet Mom, next time for sure. Avoiding marrying me. She knew I’d forgive her, so she carelessly hurt me. But this time, there won’t be a next time. Because Mom won’t have another chance. And I won’t forgive her anymore. That night, I didn’t go home; I stayed at the hospital all night. Eloise sent messages all night and called countless times. I neither read nor answered. The next day, I arrived at the company early to prepare my resignation. Eloise is the founder of the company. I’m just an ordinary designer. Since when she had nothing, I have been with her, building the business together. Now, my position in the company has become insignificant. Even if I disappeared, Eloise wouldn’t notice. As I was printing my resignation letter, Eloise suddenly appeared behind me. Under her gaze, I calmly took the resignation letter in hand. She looked at me, her tone gentle: “Finished printing?” “Yeah.” Eloise looked at me, seemingly unaware of my indifference. She cleared her throat: “Jude, come with me for a moment.” As Eloise called me away, my colleagues immediately began to gossip. “Did you know? Boss Eloise is already married.” “Really? No wonder Jude and Boss Eloise kept their relationship private. Turns out he’s the third wheel.” My dad abandoned Mom and me for another woman, making us suffer for half our lives. And now, thanks to Eloise, I’m also being called a third wheel. In the office, Eloise tried to hug me. I stepped back: “Boss, this is a company.” Eloise frowned slightly, “Don’t be mad. How about I accompany you to visit Aunt tonight?” I shook my head. “There’s no need.” My mom is already gone, and I don’t want her to see you. If she knew I was called a third wheel because of Eloise, She’d surely be angry with me. Eloise seemed to sense something different about me. After a moment of silence, she said: “In two more days, I’ll be able to divorce Lachlan. Then, we can get married.” She handed me a gift box. “This is a health supplement I prepared for Aunt.” I looked at it, somewhat in a daze. Her gesture came too late. Mom doesn’t need it anymore. Seeing my silence, anxiety flashed in Eloise’s eyes, just as she was about to speak. An urgent ringtone interrupted her thoughts. Eloise took out her phone, glanced at me, Hesitated for a moment, then left. I knew it was Lachlan calling. After all, he’s Eloise’s legitimate husband now. My heart was unruffled. After all, I no longer cared. Later, I submitted my resignation. Facing my sudden resignation request, Deputy Zhang seemed prepared. “Jude, I believe Boss Eloise will arrange everything for you.” I bit my lip, feeling it was absurd. It seemed everyone assumed I was just a pretty face kept by Eloise in the company. She had everything ready for me. But they wouldn’t believe I was Eloise’s legitimate boyfriend, now heartbroken, ready to leave. As I left the company, I ran into Eloise and Lachlan at the elevator. Seeing me, Eloise’s eyes flickered, instinctively trying to explain: “Don’t misunderstand, I brought Lachlan here to…” Before she finished, Lachlan wrapped his arm around her shoulder: “To tour my wife’s company.” I said nothing, as Lachlan spoke again: “Jude, you don’t mind, do you?” Lachlan looked at me with a provocative gaze. I silently stepped out of the elevator, giving them room. Eloise watched me, eyes filled with hesitation, wanting to say something Yet in the end, Lachlan pulled her away. In the afternoon, at the crematorium, I watched Mom turn to ashes. I placed her in the cemetery. Until nightfall. Eloise didn’t show, nor did she send any messages. I didn’t care. Without her disturbance, Mom could leave more peacefully. I believe Mom’s spirit in heaven wouldn’t want me entangled with her any longer. Nor would she want to see me marry her. Our six-year relationship should end completely. Leaving the cemetery, I walked home. It’s been a while since I walked at night. I used to hold Mom’s hand. Later, Eloise would hold my arm. From now on, I’ll walk alone. I think I’ll get used to it. I didn’t get home until early morning. The living room light was on, Eloise was on the couch sending messages. Seeing me enter, Eloise’s furrowed brow relaxed, and she rushed over to grab my hand: “Where were you? Not answering calls, not replying to messages, I was about to report you missing!” I was startled, pulling away from Eloise’s hand. “I went to be with Mom, didn’t want her disturbed.” Hearing me mention Mom, Eloise remembered what she said during the day, a trace of guilt crossing her face. She suddenly looked at me expectantly, solemnly taking out a box for me. I instinctively opened it, inside was a pair of wedding rings. I was suddenly stunned. Once, Eloise had confidently held my hand. Promising to wear the rings together, letting Mom witness our happiness. I waited countless days, hoped countless times. But that was before. I closed the box, handing it back. Eloise slightly frowned, as if realizing something, awkwardly said: “It’s already past midnight. Just one more day, and I can divorce Lachlan.” “Don’t worry, I always remember my promise.” “Tomorrow, we’ll put the rings on each other, then we’ll get married.” I wasn’t moved by her sweet talk, just said to myself: “Alright, I know, I’m a bit tired, I’ll go rest first.” Eloise’s smile froze, for the first time realizing my indifference. Panic flashed in her eyes as she tried to grab my hand. Just then Lachlan emerged from my bedroom, wearing my pajamas. He blinked sleepily at me, immediately stepping forward to wrap his arm around Eloise’s shoulder, whining: “Eloise, Jude is back, let’s go to bed.” Eloise quickly looked at me, explaining: “Lachlan had a fight with his family, I let him stay in the guest room for a night.” After speaking, Eloise watched me closely, as if afraid I’d misunderstand. I nodded, indifferently saying: “It’s alright, I can stay at Mom’s for the night.” She had a trace of panic in her eyes and reached out to grab my hand. At that moment, Lachlan emerged from the bedroom wearing my pajamas. He looked at me sleepily and immediately went over to Eloise, leaning against her shoulder and said in a playful tone: “Eloise, Jude is back. Let’s get ready for bed.” Eloise quickly glanced at me, explaining: “Lachlan had a falling out with his family, so I let him stay in the guest room for the night.” After speaking, Eloise stared at me, seemingly worried that I might misunderstand. I nodded, responding casually: “That’s fine. I can stay at Mom’s for the night.” Eloise was taken aback, as if surprised by my straightforward acceptance. However, Lachlan didn’t give me a chance to reconsider, smugly retreating back into the room. As I prepared to leave with my suitcase, Eloise was still standing in the living room. She pursed her lips, holding my hand tightly, unwilling to let go. Her eyes showed deepening guilt. Finally, prompted by Lachlan, she spoke: “Tomorrow, after we finalize everything, we’ll go see Aunt together.” When morning came, I packed up and returned to the office for the final handover. As soon as I stepped in, I noticed colleagues giving me strange looks, whispering and pointing as I passed by. It wasn’t until I saw Lachlan sitting at my desk that I understood the odd atmosphere. Everyone was focused on their screens, yet they kept glancing at the unfolding scene. Seeing me, Lachlan looked at me with arrogance: “I’m starting here today. I want this spot, so find another place.” I looked at him and calmly nodded. “Okay, I’ll pack my things.” We spoke calmly, but seeing my demeanor, the colleagues assumed I felt guilty in Lachlan’s presence. Yet, with both of us there, no one dared to say much. They just typed away on their computers, expressing disdain for me. I wanted to explain but didn’t know where to start. After all, Lachlan was legally Eloise’s husband. Saying more would only humiliate myself. As I finished packing to leave, Eloise approached. Seeing me with my luggage, her expression tightened. “Where are you going?” “I…” Lachlan cut in: “Move for me. I like sitting here.” As I was about to leave, Eloise quickly grabbed my arm. “No, this spot is yours, no one else…” Before she could finish, I interrupted: “If he likes it, let him have it.” After all, I’ve already resigned. Whoever wants to sit here is none of my concern. Eloise stood there, her expression unreadable. It wasn’t until my silhouette disappeared with the suitcase that she came to her senses. Eloise pushed aside a singing Lachlan, who was tidying the desk, and slapped him hard across the face: “Did you really think our fake marriage meant you could overstep your bounds?!” “Did you forget I warned you not to bother Jude?” After leaving the office, I received a text from Eloise. [I’ll wait for you at the church entrance tomorrow.] [The expert I invited for Aunt will arrive tomorrow.] [After we finalize everything, we’ll go see Aunt together.] I chuckled, feeling a sudden bitterness. Eloise, goodbye. I took all my luggage and headed to the airport. The next day, Eloise stood at the church entrance with a freshly issued divorce certificate. The plane began its descent, heading to Southport—a seaside city I’d never visited but always longed for. There was no Eloise, no Lachlan, none of the suffocating rumors. As the plane sliced through the clouds, I suddenly remembered that stormy night six years ago when Eloise, drenched, stood under my building and confessed: “Jude, let’s work hard together, and we’ll have a good life!” … I turned on my phone, finding seventeen unread messages, the latest from five minutes ago: “Jude, I’m at the church entrance now. When will you arrive?” I stared at the screen and suddenly burst into laughter. How ironic. Twenty-seven days of pleading, and all I got was her saying, “I’ll marry you in three days,” But now three days had passed, and I didn’t even have the strength to tear apart the lies. My fingertips brushed over the familiar number in my contacts, as six years of chat history flickered like a slideshow before my eyes. The stormy night when she confessed, soaked to the skin. The embarrassing moments of sharing a cup of instant noodles in a rented room while starting a business. Her excitement when signing the first contract, jumping into my arms.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296655”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #狼人Werewolf