Author: Momo Chan

Two years ago, Jessica threw a fit and tried to end her life. That’s why my adoptive brother sent me deep into the remote mountains. Two years later, I was finally allowed to come home. And I had completely gotten over Liam. But no one believed me. Their eyes were full of suspicion. “That’s your sister’s fiancé. Do you want to harm your sister and make her try to kill herself again? How could you be so vicious?” “The Carters kindly adopted you, but they raised an ungrateful monster. Why didn’t you just die in those mountains?” “Alice, you don’t deserve to live!” Listening to their barrage of insults, I clutched Pippin to my chest and said nothing. But later, Pippin, who had been with me all this time, suddenly went missing. My already frayed nerves finally snapped. I collapsed to my knees, begging them to give my dog back. “Please, I won’t fight with my sister. I don’t like Liam anymore. Can you please give me my dog back?” My frantic, deranged state didn’t seem like an act, and finally, no one doubted me anymore. Liam pulled me into a tight, heartbroken embrace, his voice trembling: “Alice, don’t cry.” “From now on, I’ll be your Pippin, okay?” But Liam, I don’t need you anymore. I just want my Pippin. … As soon as I came down from the mountains, reporters swarmed me. Their eyes were filled with scorn, as if I had committed some unforgivable crime. “How dare that ungrateful wretch even show her face?” “Weren’t there any widowers in those mountains? Why didn’t one marry her and beat her to death? Or let her die in childbirth?” “At the very least, a car crash on the way back would have been a public service!”

The insults pounded in my ears, but I tuned them all out. I just clutched Pippin, gently comforting him: “Pippin, we’re home now. No one can bully us anymore.” Pippin whimpered softly in my arms, a tiny response. I hugged him tight as I got into the car waiting to take me home. Stepping out, I stared blankly at what used to be my home. A woman draped in jewels and luxury came out to meet me, but I instinctively recoiled, clutching Pippin closer. Her welcoming steps faltered. Her face crumpled in hurt: “Alice, what’s wrong? It’s Mom!” “M-mom…” A dry, raspy sound clawed its way out of my throat, grating and ugly. Mrs. Carter instinctively frowned. Her displeased face merged with the twisted, menacing one from the mountains. I collapsed to my knees in a frantic mess, slapping myself repeatedly, desperately: “I’m sorry, I was wrong. It’s all my fault, I shouldn’t have upset you. I’m sorry… so sorry…” I was lost in my own private hell until Pippin’s little head nuzzled me, bringing me back to reality. Mom was sobbing uncontrollably, covering her face as she left. A servant shakily led me into the house. I heard a furious roar: “What right does she have to blame us?” “Jessica was out there for years because of her, almost ripped away from us forever. And she actually has the gall to come back? If she had even an ounce of gratitude for our years of raising her, she should have just died out there!” “Keep your voice down.” Mrs. Carter tried to soothe him. “Once Jessica and Liam are engaged, and everything settles down, maybe Alice won’t have those inappropriate thoughts anymore.” “After all, we raised her since she was little. I can’t bear to marry her off to some widower.” I hugged Pippin, my body trembling, desperately trying to hold back my tears. The moment they agreed to let Liam send me to those mountains, I shouldn’t have held onto any hope, should I? Pippin’s little tail swept against my chin. I exhaled softly and followed the servant to my room.

At the welcome home dinner, my plate and forks were placed at the very end of the table. I quietly picked them up and went to crouch in a corner. Mrs. Carter frowned at me: “What are you doing?” “Two years in the mountains and you’ve forgotten basic etiquette?” I buried my head in the bowl, gripping the forks tightly: “I haven’t forgotten.” Mrs. Carter sighed, about to pull me up, when Jessica suddenly cleared her throat and announced: “Dad, Mom, Liam and I are planning our engagement ceremony for next week.” Her gaze then shifted to me, a meaningful look in her eyes: “Oh, and Alice, I hope you’ll bless your sister’s engagement. You’ll definitely love the ceremony, it’s outdoors.” Outdoors? A lawn wedding? My spoon paused mid-air. Flashes of memory flickered through my mind, of me blushing shyly in Liam’s arms. “Liam, when we get engaged, I want green grass, a blue sky, and birds in the trees, celebrating with us, okay?” In that memory, Liam’s face was etched with impatience. “Alice, can you be a bit more sensible?” “Can’t you see I’m busy?” I hastily shut up, quickly lowering my head in submission. “I’m sorry. You go ahead and work then.” That topic died before it even began. Later, Liam never asked again, and I never dared to bring it up. Until Jessica came back. My fork clattered against the bowl, a sharp sound that jolted me awake. I quickly grabbed my food and started wolfing it down. When I was done, I presented the sparkling clean bowl to them. “I licked the bowl clean,” I pleaded, trying to please them. “Can I go now?” Mrs. Carter’s smile froze. “Alice, where are you going?” “Tell Mom what you want, and Mom will have someone buy it for you.” She subtly gestured to the maids, telling them to stop me. Watching the maids surround me, my eyes widened in terror. I instinctively fell to my knees, clutching my head, begging desperately: “Don’t hit me, please don’t hit me! I’m sorry… I’m so sorry. Take whatever you want… I’ll never dare again, never again…” “Alice…” Mrs. Carter choked out, rushing to hug me, but I recoiled even more violently. “Mom… Mom will protect me? No… Mom is bad, Mom doesn’t love me…” I mumbled incoherently, my body pressed tightly against the corner of the wall. Everyone at the dinner table had different expressions, but no one spoke. They exchanged glances, then scoffed at me with thinly veiled contempt. She even tried to steal her sister’s fiancé; faking madness to gain sympathy wasn’t really that strange. On the day of Jessica’s engagement, she specifically asked me to be there. She announced to everyone that I was her sister, and no matter how much I hurt her, she would forgive me. So, in the eyes of outsiders, Jessica was the generous, kind sister, and I was the wicked, ungrateful adopted daughter. Stealing her sister’s fiancé, forcing her sister to attempt suicide—it was unforgivable. The old stories resurfaced, and my ears were filled with all sorts of vile remarks. Some cursed me to die a terrible death, others sympathized with Jessica for having such a malicious sister. And some whispered gleefully behind their hands: “I heard she was sent to the mountains for two years. I wonder if she hooked up with any men?” “I heard the men in the remote mountains work the land daily, they’re strong and robust, probably a real treat. She couldn’t have resisted the temptation, could she?” “Who knows? If she hadn’t finally given up on her sister’s fiancé, why would Liam have bothered to bring her back?” These formerly distinguished socialites now spat venom like gossiping hags. I listened to every word, clutching Pippin tighter. Pippin growled restlessly in my arms. I gently stroked his head: “Hush, boy. Don’t cause trouble, Pippin. Causing trouble gets you beaten.” After calming Pippin, I looked up and met Liam’s eyes. Memories washed over me like a tidal wave. My scalp crawled, and my body began to tremble uncontrollably. By the time I reacted, I was already on my knees.

Mr. Carter’s face was grim as he yanked me up. Mrs. Carter blocked the other guests’ view. “Alice, we’ve given you a good life, good food, and good care, and you’re still playing the victim to tarnish your sister’s reputation? How can you be so thoughtless!” Mrs. Carter’s harsh voice startled me. I pulled away from Mr. Carter’s hand and knelt on the floor, trembling uncontrollably: “I’m sorry, I won’t dare again, never again…” Seeing my breakdown, Mrs. Carter softened her tone and held me, soothing me. I finally calmed down. The engagement ceremony continued. The engaged couple went around to toast. When they reached our table, after my parents offered their blessings, Jessica and Liam’s eyes fell on me: “Miss Alice, don’t you have any blessings for your sister and her fiancé?” Liam’s familiar voice echoed above my head. My fingers were tangled in Pippin’s leash, and I dared not move. After a long moment, Liam sneered. “Forget it. Your blessings disgust me.” “Woof woof…” Pippin barked a couple of times, as if comforting me. I whimpered back, then grabbed Liam as he was about to leave. “Mr. Hayes…” “Miss Alice, did I give you permission to speak?” Liam shook off my hand, his face etched with impatience. My parents also looked tense. I mustered every ounce of courage, pulled an aluminum can ring from my bag. “The ring you gave me, returning what’s yours.” Liam and I were childhood sweethearts. Everyone once thought we were a match made in heaven. They all assumed we would naturally end up together. We thought so too. On my eighteenth birthday, Liam, blushing fiercely, handed me an aluminum can ring. He said it was a token of our love, and his early wedding ring for me. He told me not to like anyone else. I listened to him. I never imagined Liam would be the first to betray me. Jessica’s appearance completely stole Liam’s heart. From that day on, all our vows and promises were nothing but a fragile bubble, scattered by the wind. I cried, I threw tantrums. Finally, I understood it was all a cruel, empty dream. Love was a luxury I couldn’t afford. “Alice…” Mrs. Carter awkwardly pulled me back. Liam, however, chuckled softly and took the aluminum can ring. As I watched, he casually tossed it to the ground. “It was just a childish joke. Such a cheap trinket. I never thought Miss Alice would actually take it seriously and keep it for so long?” His words made me feel like a complete joke. My cheeks burned instantly. “Woof woof…” Pippin barked a couple of times, making me quickly lower my head, so I didn’t have to scramble blindly under Liam’s knowing, mocking gaze. After the ceremony, everyone breathed a sigh of relief. I also returned to my old job. To my surprise, my first client was Jessica. She ignored Pippin’s warning growls and stood too close to me. “Little sister, it seems two years in the mountains have made you much more obedient. You actually watched Liam and me get engaged without a fuss.” Jessica’s taunt left me expressionless. Two years in the mountains had taught me that love came at a price. Liam’s love had too high a price; I couldn’t afford it. Seeing no reaction from me, her frustration flared into anger: “Alice, don’t think playing the victim at the engagement party will earn you sympathy. I’m telling you, Dad and Mom will marry you off to some faraway place sooner or later!” “You’d better keep up this act!” I didn’t reply, my gaze fixed on her wrist. There was a faint scar from her suicide attempt. It was because of that scar that I was thrown into the mountains for two years, enduring unspeakable torment. I still remembered Jessica’s suicide note: “Little sister, please don’t torment me anymore. I’m giving Dad, Mom, and Liam to you. From now on, I hope you’ll take good care of them.” By the time I snapped back, Pippin had actually chased Jessica out of the room. As I rushed out, I heard Jessica shriek, collapsing to the ground, clutching her blood-soaked leg.

“Jessica, what happened to you?!” Before I could reach Jessica, Liam rushed in from outside, his face etched with frantic concern, his eyes smoldering with rage. It was the exact same expression he’d had the day Jessica attempted suicide. Back then, I desperately tried to explain, but Liam kicked me away. My head slammed against the coffee table, blood gushing. He didn’t even seem to see it, cradling Jessica in a helpless panic as he rushed her to the hospital. As he left, he warned me: “Alice, if anything happens to Jessica, I’ll make you pay with your life.” When Liam returned, haggard and worn, there was no emotion in his eyes. “Alice, we’ve spoiled you rotten all these years, letting you lose all sense of proportion.” “From today on, you’ll go to the place where Jessica lived, experience the hardships she endured, and hopefully, you’ll become a little kinder.” But Jessica had lived in a village not far from the city. I, on the other hand, was sent to the mountains, thousands of miles away. Thinking of that pain, I bolted. But Liam called out to me: “Alice, don’t you have anything to say?” “Woof woof woof… Woof woof…” I shook my head, retreating in a panicked mess. But Pippin was still next to Jessica. I had no choice but to force myself to call him. “Pippin, come back.” Knowing Liam’s personality, if he found out Pippin had bitten Jessica, he’d surely kill him. I was terrified. I was pulling Pippin away when Liam clamped his hand around my throat, pinning me to the ground. “Still playing innocent?” “It seems two years in the mountains haven’t taught you anything.” “Alice, Jessica is kind and gentle; she’s always spoken highly of you to me. What more could you possibly be dissatisfied with her about?” I’m not dissatisfied with her! It was Jessica who wouldn’t let me go. I frantically pounded on Liam. But he not only didn’t let go, he also had someone restrain Pippin. Furious, I screamed with a sudden burst of courage. “You never believed me!” “I never did anything, but you never believed me!” “Liam, just kill me, please let Pippin go, I beg you!” I was sobbing hysterically. I couldn’t imagine the cost of losing Pippin. Liam, however, put Pippin in a cage and told me with a smile: “If you chase after me, I’ll let him go.” He drove Jessica to the hospital. I ran wildly behind them. Eventually, my strength gave out, and I fainted. When I woke up again, I was locked in a dog cage by Liam. Pippin was perfectly fine, and I breathed a sigh of relief. I knelt, begging Liam to let us go, but he refused. “You’ve hurt Jessica again and again. Do you really think you can get away with it so easily?” Liam was going to punish me again. But Pippin was also trapped, and no one could save me. My heart turned to ash. I couldn’t fight off sleep any longer. In my dream, I was back in the mountains. During the day, I was treated like livestock. Plowing fields, cutting hay, herding sheep—endless heavy, exhausting work. The slightest hesitation earned me a lashing. At night, I was chained up like a dog, guarding doors house to house. The owners would feed me stale, rotten food. The food was impossible to swallow, but I couldn’t complain, or I’d be beaten again. And then there were… some masked men. They would show up when I was resting. “Get away!” “Let go of me, don’t touch me!” “Please, I beg you!” “Don’t hit me!” Outside, dogs barked incessantly. I couldn’t help but whimper, thrashing around. I felt an icy hand on my forehead. My body seemed to feel a little better. Those hateful people also disappeared. Drowsily, I heard someone shout. “If anything happens to Alice, I’ll make you pay with your lives!” Liam also said he’d make me pay with my life. I shivered in fear: “Don’t make me pay with my life!” The voices instantly softened to a gentle murmur, and I relaxed slightly. “How is she? Is she okay?” “This particular illness is mostly gone now.” “But…” The conversation trailed off. “But the old wounds, and the sickness in her heart, are likely hard to heal.” “Mr. Hayes, you’ve been with Miss Jessica for so long, didn’t you see the scars all over her body?” That’s right. My wrists and ankles couldn’t hide them. I instinctively flinched. But then I heard a voice very much like Liam’s, speaking huskily: “These… how were these caused?” The conversation continued, but it seemed to drift further away. I could only faintly hear: “Imprisonment… whippings… burns… chains…” I was terrified. I curled into a tight ball, covering my ears and screaming: “Stop talking! Stop talking!”

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The maid’s daughter in our house somehow got her hands on three magic chickens that could swap things. The first one, she used to swap my perfectly healthy baby for her own deformed one. The second, she swapped her identity as the maid’s daughter for my identity as the true heiress. The third, she swapped for my husband, the scion of a powerful elite family. Later, I ended up homeless, kidnapped with my deformed child, trafficked overseas, and eventually died a horrific death. When I opened my eyes again, my sister was bringing me chicken soup. I was still recovering from childbirth. I took it with a cold smirk. Once she left, I poured it out for the cook’s dog, who had just had puppies. “Cassie, this is a special free-range chicken I got from my hometown. It’s been stewing for hours. You just had your baby, you’re weak, so you need to replenish your strength.” I looked at Serena, her face full of fawning sincerity, and scoffed internally. In my last life, I misjudged her. I felt pity for her because her father had died young, and she and her mother came to work as maids in our house. I was exceptionally good to her. I let her and her mom live with us, and we even went to school together. Later, I found her and Julian, my childhood sweetheart, in bed together. I even fought tooth and nail to make sure the pregnant Serena married Julian, abandoning my long-standing affection for him just to right what I thought was a wrong. I never imagined that my pity would cost me everything, leading to unimaginable torment and a brutal death in a foreign land. Heaven must have had eyes for me, granting me this chance to be reborn. How could I ever let you steal my life again? I kept the coldness in my eyes hidden, smiling at her. “Just leave it. I finished my postpartum meal. I’ll drink it later.” Serena hesitated. “Okay, but remember to drink it later.” Finally, she left the room, turning back three times. She didn’t doubt my words; after all, we’d been close for so many years. She just wasn’t entirely at ease not seeing me drink it herself. Once she left and closed the door, I picked up the chicken soup and poured most of it into a cup, leaving only about a third at the bottom of the bowl. Sure enough, Serena came back in shortly after. After I nodded my permission, she pushed the door open, casually glancing at the bowl on my nightstand. Seeing the bowl mostly empty, she visibly relaxed, her mood brightening considerably. “Cassie, rest well. I’m heading off.” She finished, then gave a meaningful look at my baby sleeping soundly in the bassinet next to me. A flicker of triumphant glee flashed in her eyes. In my last life, the first thing she stole was my healthy, safe baby. After she got her wish and married into the Lin family, the child she gave birth to was deformed. Julian’s parents already disliked her because she’d used such a dirty trick to marry into their family. With the deformed baby, her position in the Lin family became even more precarious. Almost no one treated her like a legitimate daughter-in-law. Word spread like wildfire in our social circles. No one wanted anything to do with her; they all ostracized her. She had no one to blame but herself. You can’t force your way into a world that isn’t yours, especially when you’re just looking to steal from others. In the end, you’ll reap what you sow. After she left, I got up and put on my robe. I carried the cup of chicken soup to the backyard and poured it into the dog’s bowl. The dog, who had just delivered puppies, sniffed it out immediately. It eagerly lapped it up, and once it tasted the rich flavor, it quickly licked the bowl clean. Back home, Serena stared excitedly at the deformed child in the bassinet. She was waiting for that baby to magically transform into a healthy one without anyone knowing. But time ticked by, minute by minute, and not only did the baby not change, black fuzz began to grow all over its body. Serena gasped in horror, her eyes wide as she watched the baby sprouting fur. The fur grew more and more, thicker and denser, quickly turning the baby into a dark, shadowy figure that looked truly monstrous. In sheer terror, she let out a piercing scream: “Ah—”

The house staff rushed in, saw the baby, and were equally terrified, quickly rushing out to call for help. Serena snapped back to reality, trying to stop them, but it was too late. Her legs gave out, and she fell heavily to the floor. Julian’s parents arrived, and the sight scared them out of their wits. Julian’s mother fainted on the spot. Suddenly, the Lin household was in utter chaos. I was getting a foot massage when I heard about it. My best friend, Chloe, vividly described the scene to me: panicked parents, a shattered and bewildered Julian, and a hysterical, collapsing Serena. Chloe said with some pity, “That poor child, having a mother like that.” Even though the child was born deformed, Julian’s parents and Julian himself were still very good to the baby. They hired a professional team of postpartum nurses and a medical team to care for the child and assess its condition, planning surgery once its health indicators stabilized. It was Serena, the mother, who, despite appearing decent on the surface, ignored the child behind closed doors, unwilling to even glance at it. The house staff weren’t blind; everyone in the family knew. So their poor impression and attitude towards Serena had a reason. Unfortunately, Serena, fueled by jealousy and imbalance, chose a crooked path. She tried to swap my healthy child for a deformed one, so she shouldn’t blame me for giving her a taste of her own medicine. This incident created quite a buzz in our circles for a while. Everyone said Serena was getting her just deserts. The next time I saw Serena was at my son’s hundred-day banquet. He was the first grandson of the Thorne family, so my in-laws placed great importance on it, hosting a lavish banquet at a prestigious venue in the city’s most exclusive district. They invited all our relatives and friends from the city’s elite circles. Serena followed behind Julian. In two months, she seemed to have aged significantly. Even dressed up, her憔悴 (weariness) was evident. When she saw me, a flash of hatred crossed her eyes, quickly concealed. She followed Julian to my front. Julian, ever since his marriage, had barely met with me outside of major public events to avoid any awkwardness. Seeing me now, the complex emotions in his eyes were undeniable. He spoke with some difficulty, “Cassie, I wish you and the baby health and peace.” As he spoke, he handed over an exquisite box. I smiled, took it, but didn’t open it directly, instead handing it to my assistant, Maya, who stood nearby. Serena’s gaze at me was full of envy and resentment. I ignored it, greeted them, and then continued to entertain other guests. Julian walked directly to the garden perimeter, leaving Serena standing alone. A few ladies gathered around me, showering me with congratulations and compliments. As we chatted, the topic of Serena’s child came up. “Mrs. Thorne, you wouldn’t believe it, that child is covered in fur, it doesn’t look human at all.” A woman lowered her voice slightly. “More like an animal.” “I heard about it too. How could a perfectly normal child suddenly grow fur? It was already deformed, and now it mysteriously sprouted fur all over. It’s so bizarre.” “If you ask me, it must be something the mother did. Retribution on the child.” The woman glanced at Serena not far away. “Don’t forget how she used such dirty tricks to climb into the Lin family.”

Our conversation wasn’t quiet, or rather, there was no need to avoid Serena. So, Serena heard everything clearly, but she couldn’t react. In a setting like this, she had to swallow her pride, no matter how much it burned. She hung her head, trembling with rage, the hatred in her eyes almost materializing, threatening to pierce us. Too bad. If she had that kind of power, she wouldn’t have been forced to endure this humiliation until now. As the banquet was about to end, Serena stepped out for a while. When she returned, she was carrying a thermal container. I smiled faintly, glanced at my assistant, Maya, and calmly waited for her next move. This time, she disregarded everyone’s stares and walked up to me, a gentle smile on her face. “Cassie, you’ve been so busy taking care of guests, you haven’t eaten anything. This is chicken soup my mom specially made for you. Drink it while it’s hot.” “Don’t think everything’s fine just because you’re out of postpartum recovery. A woman needs to take care of herself for a year or two after having a baby…” She chattered on, smiling, her words full of concern for me and her supposed sincerity. Her earnestness almost made me believe her. Everyone watched Serena showering me with care, personally serving me soup, their expressions varied, their minds buzzing with speculation. Serena didn’t care in the slightest now. She handed me the soup bowl. “Drink it while it’s hot.” “That’s very thoughtful of you,” I said, smiling as I took it, but didn’t drink. I looked at Serena, whose eyes were alight with barely suppressed anticipation, and offered an apologetic smile. “I forgot to tell you last time…” “I can’t drink any more, but as you know, I don’t eat reheated leftovers. So I poured it out for the cook’s dog.” Watching Serena’s expression instantly freeze, I smiled again. “She just had puppies, and she drank it all in one go, not a drop wasted.” Serena nearly lost control of her facade. The hatred and breakdown in her eyes were about to spill over. The people around us were enjoying the show. None of them would think there was anything wrong with me giving the chicken soup to a dog. They just found it hilarious how Serena tried so hard to please me, only to have her efforts literally fed to a dog. Serena knew this too. She was both furious and humiliated, forcing a smile that was uglier than a cry. “It’s fine, if she drank it, she drank it. This time, you really should taste it yourself, it’s truly delicious.” I nodded, slowly bringing the bowl to my lips. My assistant, Maya, was quicker than thought. She snatched the bowl from my hand, steady as a rock, not spilling a single drop, and then drank more than half the bowl in one go. Serena gasped in shock, hastily trying to stop her, only managing to knock over the last bit of soup. Maya saw her reaction and pinned her to the ground. “You really *are* up to something!” A murmur of excitement rippled through the crowd. Their gazes at Serena grew increasingly playful. Serena’s face was pressed to the ground, right into the sticky chicken soup. She knew she had failed again, and she had no idea who Maya truly was. She was close to breaking point. My in-laws and Darian saw the commotion and were displeased. They gestured to their staff, who quickly briefed them. After hearing the summary, my in-laws’ faces darkened further. They immediately ordered the chicken soup to be preserved for laboratory testing and had security restrain Serena. The chicken soup itself wouldn’t be the issue. Serena’s problem, however, was huge. She had caused such a scene, not only humiliating the Lin family but also offending the powerful Thorne family. Already a laughingstock, she had now maxed out all her negative stats.

Julian’s parents, rushing over, exclaimed as if the sky had fallen. Their disgust for Serena reached its peak. While placating my in-laws with polite apologies, they desperately wished they could disown Serena on the spot. At the same time, Serena’s identity subtly shifted in everyone’s minds. A daughter of a maid in a prominent household, no matter what, had seen some of the world and held a somewhat better standing than ordinary people. But she had chosen *my* assistant. To be honest, I specifically sought out Maya for this purpose. My recruitment criterion was: someone with a truly miserable backstory. Serena was now portrayed as a woman from a rural area, completely unremarkable, who had manipulated her way into Julian’s bed at a party and leveraged her pregnancy to marry into the Lin family. Everyone’s eyes filled with even more scorn and disdain when they looked at her. They even started openly criticizing her, right in front of Julian’s parents. Serena wept uncontrollably, becoming the ultimate laughingstock. A tidal wave of humiliation and hatred swept over her. She forced herself to look up at me, seeing the playful smirk on my lips. She seemed to understand something. Disbelief flickered in her eyes, and something inside her shattered. Julian, who had just arrived, had a grim expression. After apologizing to my in-laws, he looked at me with deep regret. “Cassie, I’m truly sorry.” “It’s fine by me,” I shrugged. “But I can’t say the same for others.” At my words, Julian’s parents’ faces grew even more sullen. The test results came back: the chicken soup was perfectly harmless. But that didn’t change the fact that this banquet had utterly humiliated the Lin family. Serena’s life was about to get much harder. Serena was effectively placed under house arrest by the Lin family, forbidden from leaving to avoid further trouble. She was smart, too. After admitting her wrongdoing, she genuinely stayed put for two or three months, quiet and compliant. Later, without anyone noticing, she was left largely unsupervised. Soon, she found me. She arranged to meet me using Julian’s name. I arrived on time. The restaurant was empty; she had booked the entire place. I wasn’t surprised to see her, just noted that she looked visibly older. I sat across from her and smiled. “Long time no see.” Compared to my calm, she seemed agitated. “You knew all along, didn’t you!” I smiled, offering no reply, silently confirming her words. “Cassandra Thorne! You are so cunning!” Serena glared at me fiercely. “You pretended to know nothing! And you ruined me like this!” “Wrong!” I interrupted her. “You brought this upon yourself!” Serena slammed her hand on the table, standing up, agitated. “Nonsense! What are you pretending to be so high and mighty about?! You just rely on your family’s status to lord over everyone! Why?! We’re all human! Is it wrong for me to fight for a better life for myself?!” I stood up and slapped her across the face. “This is stealing! I was good to you because I’m kind, not because I’m a pushover you can stomp on.” “You want to steal what’s mine,” I squeezed her chin, then violently shoved her away, “you should have asked for my permission first!” Serena laughed, a little crazed. “I will take what’s yours! What can you do about it? Do you think I’m out of options, hahaha—” Serena looked at me meaningfully and slowly said, “I want to swap partners with Cassandra Thorne.”

A memory, not my own, flooded my mind. It was of Julian and me. We were childhood sweethearts, and when we reached marrying age, we got married. And Serena? She became Mrs. Thorne, the young matriarch of the powerful Thorne family. Only Serena and I knew the real truth. Serena, sensing the shift in identities, was ecstatic. While the Lin family was prominent, compared to the Thorne family, they were worlds apart. That’s why she had gone to such lengths, finding a witch and now using her last chance, sacrificing ten years of her life to swap places with me. Now, she was Mrs. Thorne. She had finally surpassed me. But she hadn’t considered what her situation would be like, given her true identity and past actions, even as Mrs. Thorne. And I had no obligation to warn her. I smiled, genuinely congratulating her. “Congratulations, Mrs. Thorne.” Welcome, Serena, to the Thorne family’s hell. Yes, I call the Thorne family’s mansion hell. I was merely a tool my father used to secure a marriage alliance for the Thorne family. They had searched for a long time and finally settled on me.

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The SAT Showdown: They Called Me Wretched The SATs were just around the corner when they finally brought me home – the real daughter. On SAT day, I was the first one to hand in my paper and walk out of the exam hall. A reporter asked how I felt I did, and I frankly told him the questions were super easy. The reporter gasped, “Are you, by any chance, Ashley Montgomery, the genius academic star?” Just then, the fake daughter, Ashley, also finished her exam and came out. My parents, Richard and Eleanor, and my brother, Blake, immediately surrounded her, showering her with affection and declaring that *she* was the real genius. Ashley pretended to speak up for me, but her words were laced with mockery. “Sister, it’s okay if you didn’t do well. But you shouldn’t lie, you know? I heard your scores are barely enough to get into a community college. You can always retake them!” My parents and Blake glared at me, their faces dark, as if I had brought shame upon them. I just crossed my arms and smiled confidently. I was the first person to walk out of every single SAT subject test. When I confidently declared that Harvard was a sure thing after the last exam, the live stream chat absolutely exploded. My mother, Eleanor, was so furious she practically shrieked, “We don’t have such a delusional daughter!” My father, Richard, proclaimed, “If she can get into Harvard, I’ll give her my entire fortune!” People in the live stream had already dug up my previous scores, frantically spamming the chat: “If she gets into Harvard – no, even just undergrad – I’ll eat my own socks on live stream!” I looked at my father and shook my head. “Dad, your fortune? I wouldn’t even touch it!”

The words had barely left my lips when my parents’ faces grew even darker. Blake looked utterly livid. ““*Jian-nü*,” I think you’ve lost your mind. We should send you to a mental hospital right now.” Eleanor looked disgusted. “I don’t know what on earth you told your grandmother to make her bring you back, but now you’ve completely disgraced the Montgomery family.” “If it weren’t for the DNA test, I’d never believe you were my daughter.” The next second, her gaze softened, falling on Ashley. “Our Ashley is so sensible, so graceful and poised. She doesn’t pull these attention-seeking stunts.” Ashley let out a soft “Oh dear.” “Sister, are you short on cash or something? Is that why you’re trying to go for a controversial route, then just go into live streaming sales? If you need money, just ask Mom and Dad! They wouldn’t deny you. Making such a spectacle of yourself outside, people might think Mom and Dad are abusing you.” She finished, leaning sweetly against Eleanor’s shoulder, her eyes fixed on me with disdain and mockery. Richard, who always prioritized appearances, snapped, “Nonsense!” “When we get home, confiscate all her electronics. Lock her up! She’s not coming out until she apologizes!” I watched them – a picture of a united, harmonious family of four, all against me. My heart didn’t stir an inch. I even smiled. Blake’s face was grim. ““*Jian-nü*,” what are you smiling at?” I shrugged. “SAT scores will be out soon. Why are you all in such a hurry?” “Anyway, you’ve never cared about me, have you?” Blake had zero patience. “Who doesn’t know you used to score two, three hundred? Don’t blame others for not caring if your grades are trash!” I was the real Montgomery heiress, swapped by the Roberts family. From childhood, my grades were absolutely terrible. They only brought me back two months before the SATs. My last mock exam before the SATs was just as bad as before. They completely gave up on me. They simply ignored that I was also taking the SATs, showering Ashley with attention and care every single day. On SAT day, my father, Richard, who was always swamped with work, canceled everything. My mother, Eleanor, who had daily appointments with socialites, canceled all her engagements. My brother, Blake, who was busy with various university activities, also cleared his schedule. All for Ashley’s SATs. Not only that, they thought I was bad luck, fearing I would jinx Ashley’s performance. They only dropped her off at the exam hall. Every time they saw me walking out of the exam, they’d look at me as if I were some unlucky charm, and when we got home, they’d even try to ward off bad luck around me, as if I were contaminated. Ashley stepped forward, playing the good person. “Mom, Dad, *Jian-nü* probably just hasn’t experienced this much attention before. It’s probably just vanity acting up.” “Besides, the SAT scores will be out soon. Just let her have her little moment for a couple of days.” ““*Jian-nü*,” just apologize to Mom and Dad. We can let this go.”

The live stream chat was scrolling furiously: “Now THIS is a true genius, so graceful!” “But what’s with *Jian-nü*? What kind of parents give their daughter such a name in this day and age?” “To the commenter above, word on the street is *Jian-nü* is the Montgomery family’s real daughter who was swapped at birth. They just found her, but she looks like a lost cause.” “She looks so provocative, just begging for a punch! Whoever named her that is a genius!” I ignored the immense malice directed at me in the live stream and spoke directly: “Please, everyone, be my witness. I hope my parents keep their word when the scores come out.” “Oh, and everyone in the live stream too.” The live stream chat collectively spammed: “I think she’s truly lost it.” The day the SAT scores were released. The reporter who interviewed me before showed up again. He had become an overnight sensation because of me. Unwilling to let go of this massive buzz, he had privately contacted me, worried I wouldn’t make outrageous claims like I did on SAT days. He insisted I maintain that persona. He even offered me a cut of the profits. Not just him, many big PR firms also sought me out, ready to tailor a public image for me. The moment the SAT scores were out, they wanted me to go live and simply announce I was the SAT top scorer. No one believed a word I said. While waiting for the scores, the reporter interviewed my parents, asking why I was so extreme. Eleanor forced out two tears. “Today, after she faces reality, we’ll send her to a mental hospital. After all, she’s still my daughter.” Richard, meanwhile, put his arm around her, said a couple of comforting words, then immediately diverted the conversation to his company’s new product. I watched them coolly from the side. If they truly considered me their daughter, they wouldn’t have only brought me back right before the SATs. Ten minutes before the scores were released, they put on a show of caring. Richard said, ““*Jian-nü*,” apologize in the live stream now, it’s not too late. Afterwards, we can just say you had a mental breakdown.” Eleanor added, ““*Jian-nü*,” must you bring shame to the Montgomery family? I swear, you’re nothing but trouble since you came back. I wish I had never given birth to you.” Blake was as impatient as ever. “Are you really going to be a complete clown today? Have we been too good to you?” I spoke up, genuinely surprised. “Good to me? With your words? I haven’t felt it. Being good to me means making me live in the storage room, not giving me pocket money or even a ride, making me walk ten miles to school? And ignoring me when I was bullied?” A flicker of awkwardness and discomfort crossed their faces. Because after they brought me back, they literally never cared for me. The staff were quick to follow their lead; if the Montgomerys didn’t say anything, the staff wouldn’t do anything. Ashley, however, had red eyes. ““*Jian-nü*,” don’t blame Mom and Dad. After the SAT scores come out, I’ll give Mom and Dad back to you. I’ll leave the Montgomery family.” The live stream chat exploded again: “Is *Jian-nü* really having such a hard time? The Montgomery family didn’t handle that well.” “Heh, serves her right! If I had a daughter like that, I wouldn’t even bring her home!” Richard, Eleanor, and Blake immediately rushed to comfort Ashley. “Ashley, don’t apologize to her. She’s not worthy!” “If you leave the Montgomery family, you’d be killing us!” “Ashley, I’m not someone who values blood ties. I only recognize you as my sister.” I spoke lazily. “You keep calling me ‘“*Jian-nü*”’ – ‘Wretched Girl.’ But that name was truly meant for Ashley. It’s what *her* birth parents, the Roberts, named her.” My parents and Blake immediately glared at me. Ashley’s tears fell even faster. ““*Jian*”… Sister, I know you’re upset with me…” I had no patience for it. I cut her off directly. “Ashley, let’s make a bet. If you score worse than me, how about you take the name ‘“*Jian-nü*”’?” “If I score worse than you, I’ll get out of the Montgomery family.”

No sooner had I spoken than someone shouted: “Time’s up!” Ashley, however, glanced at me, barely concealing the triumph in her eyes. “Sister, so you don’t upset Mom and Dad any further, I accept your bet.” Everyone crowded behind Ashley, impatiently waiting for her to check her scores. The viewers on the live stream also stopped spamming, waiting in silent anticipation for the results. However, Ashley’s score kept loading, loading, loading. Suddenly, the entire house went dark. Only the glow from Ashley’s computer screen remained. “A power outage? No wonder the internet’s so bad!” Blake’s angry voice boomed, “What’s going on? Why is the power out? Send someone to check the lines now!” Ashley’s computer, without internet, continued to spin its loading circle. In the darkness, someone muttered, “The Montgomery villa has never had a power outage before. Could it be *her* doing?” “Now that you mention it, it makes sense! If you’re scared, don’t talk big!” I pursed my lips. I told them before that the circuit had issues, but they didn’t believe me. Now they were blaming me. Soon, someone reported, “Sir, Madam, there’s a slight issue with the wiring.” Blake became agitated again. “If there’s a problem, fix it! How many minutes will it take?” The person stammered, “Five minutes.” Blake barked, “You have three minutes!” Even in the dark, I could feel impatient stares on me. ““*Jian-nü*,” do you really have to pull so many stunts?” “Are you that desperate for attention that you’d resort to this?” It was Blake’s voice. I rolled my eyes. “We could just check on our phones! You’re the ones who insisted on using the computer!” “This is so you’ll admit defeat, and so the live stream viewers know not everyone in the Montgomery family is as shameless as you!” “You have no proof, so why are you barking like a dog?” I retorted, annoyed. Blake was about to speak again when the power suddenly came back on. Ashley’s page was still lagging. “Scores are out! English 121, Math 104, History 130, Physics 79, Chemistry 80, Biology 83, Total 597!” Those who hadn’t seen it yet gasped. Because, given Ashley’s usual genius persona, she couldn’t possibly score so low. “Not Miss Ashley, it’s just someone in the live stream whose scores came out. I just read it aloud.” The next second, the reporter quickly apologized. “My apologies, it’s an old habit, reading the comments!” Everyone seemed to breathe a sigh of relief. Ashley’s hand, clutching the mouse, began to tremble. The next second, the page refreshed! Everyone stared at Ashley’s computer. “The scores are out! This time, it’s really Miss Ashley’s scores!” someone shouted. *That’s it?* I thought to myself. I’d expected Ashley’s scores to be invisible or something. Someone read out her scores: “English 132, Math 140, History 141, Physics 80, Chemistry 85, Biology 86, Total 664!” Ashley’s face instantly turned ugly. She refreshed repeatedly, unwilling to believe those were her scores. The Montgomerys were initially in disbelief too, but quickly adjusted, comforting her: “Ashley, you did great! We heard this year’s exam was really tough.” Blake, meanwhile, blamed everything on me. ““*Jian-nü*,” if you hadn’t come back, Ashley wouldn’t have been distracted and scored poorly.” The live stream also began to doubt. “Didn’t they say she was a genius girl? While that score is high for me, it’s not exactly ‘genius’ material, is it?” “If even the genius girl scored this low, then *Jian-nü* must have done even worse, right?” The moment Ashley looked up, her eyes were red, brimming with tears. “Mom, Dad, Blake, I didn’t do well. I disappointed you. I’ll go pack my things and move out of this house.” No sooner had she spoken than a perfectly timed, sparkling tear rolled down her cheek, making her look utterly pitiful. Richard comforted her, “Ashley, what are you talking about? Even if you scored zero, you’d still be my daughter, a Montgomery!” “Your scores are already excellent. Getting into a good university won’t be a problem.” “It’s Dad’s fault. I shouldn’t have brought that wretched girl back. She affected your performance! How about this, Dad will buy you that island you’ve been eyeing, and you can go relax there with your friends.” Eleanor quickly added, “Ashley, Mom already bought you a twenty-million-dollar diamond necklace. It’ll be delivered soon.” Blake wasn’t to be outdone. “Ashley, I’ll buy you a villa and luxury cars. Don’t be sad!” Thankfully, I’d seen my adoptive parents, the Roberts, play favorites since I was little, so facing this moment, the slight pang of bitterness I felt quickly vanished. Richard’s gaze at me was like looking at a plague. He frowned. ““*Jian-nü*,” before you came back, Ashley always scored over seven hundred!” I pursed my lips. “She’s just not that good.” “You!” Richard exploded in fury. “Even now, you show no remorse! I will not allow you to destroy our family. I see nothing of the Montgomery family’s fine qualities in you. From today, I’m sending you out of this family!” I looked utterly composed. “Why the rush? My scores haven’t been checked yet.” Mocking laughter erupted from the crowd again. “The exam was so hard this time, even Miss Ashley didn’t do well. She must have done even worse!” Blake, as usual, was impatient. “Then check your scores quickly!” I pouted. “Isn’t Ashley checking them already?”

Ashley’s face changed, and she quickly explained, “I was just checking how you did, so I could help you figure out which university you could get into.” I retorted mercilessly, “Caring enough to memorize my exam ID number?” She was choked speechless. The next second, someone burst out laughing: “Zero? How can anyone get a zero? Even if you threw the answer sheet on the ground and stepped on it, you’d get a higher score!” A flash of triumphant smile quickly crossed Ashley’s face. She glanced at the computer, confirmed it, then looked up at me provocatively. “Sister, if you had scored two or three hundred, Mom and Dad might still have thrown money to get you into a university. But you scored zero. Mom and Dad can’t even pay for you to get in.” Too bad she didn’t look closely. My parents’ faces were incredibly grim. “Disgraceful.” Blake seemed to breathe a sigh of relief, watching me with cold eyes. “Send her to a mental hospital.” The live stream chat erupted in cheers. It was as if a farce had finally ended. I understood instantly. So, Blake Montgomery had never scored in the top fifty either. Richard fully agreed with Blake. “Yes, send her to a mental hospital. Don’t let her out until she’s cured.” As he spoke, people quickly moved to my side, ready to take me away. I frowned and spoke up. “Don’t you know that the top fifty scores are initially blocked?” Everyone seemed to freeze for a moment. Then, a chorus of laughter erupted. As if they had never heard anything so funny, they laughed until tears streamed down their faces. “Top fifty? Her? Someone who scored a big fat zero claiming top fifty! Young Master Blake is right, she’s truly lost her mind!” Only my parents and Blake had ashen faces. Ashley’s hostile gaze, which had been fixed on me since I arrived at the Montgomery home, softened into a hint of pity, but mostly the triumph of a victor. She also thought I was crazy. She even thoughtfully comforted my parents. “Mom, Dad, Blake, Sister might have a mental problem. While she’s recovering, I’ll take her place and be even more filial to you.” Richard seemed unable to bear it another second and roared, “Get that ‘“*Jian-nü*”’ to the mental hospital immediately!” “Who dares!” Everyone turned towards the source of the voice. And when I heard that voice, my eyes finally welled up. I, who had never felt wronged until now, suddenly began to feel a belated sense of grievance. And it grew stronger and stronger. “Mom, why are you here?” Richard’s voice even held a hint of fear. Eleanor and Blake, initially flustered, quickly calmed down, their approving gazes falling on Ashley. Eleanor said, “Mom, I was going to have someone inform you of Ashley’s scores. You shouldn’t have had to come yourself.” “But this child certainly didn’t disappoint us.” Ashley looked somewhat overwhelmed but flattered, sweetly calling out, “Grandma, I just checked my scores, 664 points.” There was even a hint of pride in her tone. Grandma Margaret Montgomery coolly swept her gaze over them. She sat down on the sofa and beckoned me to her side. I immediately ran over. “Who are you sending to a mental hospital?” Her voice, though not angry, held an undeniable authority. My parents chuckled awkwardly. “Mom, it’s one thing that *Jian-nü*’s scores are terrible, but she’s spouting nonsense, not a single truthful word. We suspect she’s gone mad, so we thought of sending her to a mental hospital for treatment.” ““*Jian-nü*?”” Grandma Margaret looked directly at Richard, repeating the name. Richard opened his mouth, then belatedly realized, unable to speak, fine beads of sweat already appearing on his forehead. Blake stepped forward, appearing to champion justice. “Grandma, it’s not Dad’s fault for not changing *Jian*… my sister’s name. It’s just that it was so close to the SATs, and we were busy worrying about Ashley, we didn’t have time to change it.” My parents quickly chimed in, “Yes.” Grandma Margaret looked at Ashley, then at my parents, a look of disappointment in her eyes. She caressed my hand, but I shook my head, indicating I was fine. Before, only my high school homeroom teacher cared for me. Now, with Grandma Margaret, it was my good fortune. “Excuse me, is this the Montgomery residence?” A few people walked in, asking. After confirming, those individuals immediately locked onto my parents, and after saying, “Congratulations on your daughter becoming the top scorer in the state,” they eagerly introduced themselves:

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My Eight-Year Marriage: A Scapegoat No More! I’d been with my husband for eight years. He was the perfect husband, attentive to my every need. Until the news broke that my best friend was back in the country and had been hurt. At the grand opening, he ditched me and ran to the one who truly held his heart. The next day, I received the divorce papers. Eight years of devotion, and it all meant nothing the moment his ex came back. I finally got it. I’d loved Julian Thorne for a full decade. But he, he never knew. The day he married me, I didn’t sleep a wink. I’d longed for this day for so, so long. The day Julian Thorne and I got married, it poured outside. Originally, the one Julian was supposed to marry was Blair Thompson. But on their wedding day, Blair took the wedding funds and ran, abandoning the ceremony. Blair, she was my best friend. Back in university, she was incredibly introverted, barely spoke, and came from no significant background. Nobody wanted to hang out with her. Our university was an elite one, full of students from old money and powerful families. Later, I learned Blair had forced her parents to borrow money from everywhere just to get into the school because she was determined to bag a wealthy husband. The lazy afternoon sun spilled onto the garden path. I was heading to the office to go over a paper with a professor when I heard a commotion around the corner. A few entitled brats had cornered a young girl. They were spewing all sorts of filthy language. The girl had a large backpack, her body curled into a ball, eyes filled with tears, staring timidly at the aggressive faces surrounding her. Liam Hayes ripped off the girl’s hat, threw it to the ground, and stomped on it. Lucas Thorne snatched her phone, fiddling with it, letting out strange cackles now and then. The girl pleaded, her voice trembling, “Please, give me my things back, I’m begging you…” But they ignored her, continuing their torment. “Cole Hayes, is bullying part of the Hayes family’s values?” I said, my voice cold, staring at Cole. Cole Hayes, the sole heir to the Hayes family, their future successor. In this city, the Hayes family ranked first, the Millers ranked second. “Maybe Miss Miller should mind her own business first?” Lucas glared at me, annoyed. “You know the consequences if you don’t leave now.” I twirled my pen, speaking casually. Cole gave me a deep look, then slightly raised his chin, signaling them to leave. “Since when did Miss Miller start being so nosy?” they muttered as they walked away. It was true, I was known in our circles for being aloof and reserved, yet that day, I stepped forward anyway. My parents were always busy with business abroad, maybe I was just lonely too. “My name is Blair Thompson, thank you for saving me just now.” Blair extended her hand to me. “Seraphina Miller. Don’t be such a coward in the future.” I glanced at her. But she just grinned and hugged me. “From now on, you’re my best friend!” I didn’t like unfamiliar people getting too close, but that day, I don’t know what possessed me, but I didn’t push her away. From then on, Blair followed me everywhere, every single day. She chattered constantly, incredibly noisy. But I never once cut her off. Julian Thorne, he was utterly, madly in love with Blair. At the most luxurious private club in the city, it was covered in Ecuadorian Royal Roses and Japanese Alpine Peonies. A globally renowned wedding dress designer had custom-made a dream gown for Blair—gossamer-thin French lace, dazzling Swarovski crystals, every stitch radiating luxury. The lavish wedding he gave Blair was the talk of the entire city. That day, everyone who was anyone was there. I watched it all in a daze. Ten years of unrequited love, maybe it was finally time to end it. Like a shell of myself, I escaped into the lounge. Afraid that in the next second, I’d just completely break down. “Sera, could you do me a favor?” Blair had followed me in, I hadn’t even noticed. I looked at her, gesturing for her to continue. Blair ran over, shaking my arm. “Could you help me elope? I don’t want to marry Julian.” “Why?”

Julian and Blair had been together for five years. In those five years, his doting and favoritism towards Blair drove me insane with jealousy. I had never seen Julian like that. I forced myself to bury those feelings deep inside. “I don’t want to marry someone I don’t love, please, Sera,” she pleaded, whining. “Stop messing around, the wedding’s about to start.” I said, a little annoyed. “Alright, fine, I’ll go get ready then.” Blair skipped off. My thoughts drifted back to the past. I absolutely hated horseback riding. But I heard he loved equestrianism, so I signed up for riding lessons too. On my first lesson, I was nervous and clumsy, trying to approach the restless horse, but I couldn’t calm it down. Just as I was at a loss, Julian, wearing a dashing riding helmet, walked over with a confident stride. He gently patted the horse’s neck, whispered a few words, and the horse immediately settled down. Then he turned and looked at me, a smile in his eyes. He patiently taught me how to properly hold the reins and mount the horse. As he guided me hand-in-hand, I caught a faint scent of his cologne. His proximity made my cheeks burn. “Thank you, Julian,” I said, blushing. I’d liked him since childhood, but this was the first time I’d ever called him by name to his face. The reason I liked him was simple: he was incredibly handsome. “It’s nothing, Sera. Feel free to ask me anything you don’t understand.” When he looked at me, his eyes seemed to sparkle. I nodded. In that instant, my heart felt like it burst with fireworks. Maybe he liked me a little too. Was I really Julian and Blair’s matchmaker? I asked myself countless times. At a lavish private yacht party, I didn’t like crowds, so I stood alone on the deck, enjoying the breeze. The sea wind gently lifted my hair. As I was lost in thought, a magnetic voice suddenly came from behind me: “Standing out here in the wind, aren’t you cold?” I turned, and Julian Thorne, dressed in a white casual suit, appeared before me. He stood tall, his presence extraordinary, the limited edition Rolex on his wrist glinting dazzlingly in the sunlight. “It’s alright, the view here is beautiful,” I replied calmly. He smiled, walking to the railing and standing beside me. “Indeed, this sea always lifts one’s spirits.” “I remember you don’t really like attending parties.” “I came with a friend.” I glanced at Blair, who was flitting between various wealthy young men. “Your friend? She’s quite beautiful.” Julian followed my gaze. Blair that day was in a custom gown, its train spilling like a river of stars, her exquisite makeup highlighting her striking features. Yes, I bought it for her. “Sera, I’ve never been to a yacht party!” she looked at me pitifully. “Please, please, take me!” My heart suddenly softened, I gave her a makeover and brought her along. “So, Mr. Thorne, is she your type?” I asked him boldly, secretly testing the waters. “Do you want me to introduce you?” I waited for a long time, so long I thought Julian wouldn’t answer. “No.” He waved his hand at me. “Let’s go, Miss Miller. Get back inside, it’s cold.” He said he didn’t like her, Yet his eyes never left Blair. The next day, he began his relentless pursuit. He pursued her relentlessly and patiently for almost a year, making sure everyone knew it.

“Sera, I said yes to Julian’s proposal!” Blair smiled, as innocent and charming as a child. “Hm, congratulations.” I unconsciously tightened my grip on the book in my hand, my fingertips turning white, but I didn’t even notice. Back then, I naively thought Blair truly loved Julian. I refused to be the villain who tore them apart. I’d consider my feelings for him just a long, beautiful dream. Now that I was awake, I’d pay the price for indulging in it. But in the end, Blair still ran away from the wedding. And, she even took the wedding funds with her. At the wedding venue, guests filled the seats, flowers and crystal chandeliers shimmered, everything arranged to the most luxurious specifications. Julian, in his Italian custom suit, stood tall, but as he waited for Blair, he received the news of her elopement instead. In an instant, his eyes widened, staring in disbelief at the empty end of the red carpet. The composure on his face vanished, replaced by anger and panic. “Where is she?!” Julian roared, his voice echoing through the entire hall, making the surrounding staff tremble. Julian tore off his tie and flung it at the elegant dessert table, scattering pastries everywhere. Then he stormed into the bride’s dressing room, and seeing the empty space, he became even more enraged. He clenched his fists, veins throbbing on his forehead, muttering through gritted teeth, “How dare she!” Julian rushed out the door, completely abandoning his usual image, his uncontrolled appearance a stark contrast to his usual self. A few hours later, Julian returned, defeated. He walked straight to me. “Sera, will you marry me?” Julian clutched my hand, as if afraid I’d refuse. I knew he needed a bride today. Whether it was to get back at Blair or save face. “I…” “Seraphina Miller, are you crazy? Can’t you see he’s just using you to clean up his mess?” Cole Hayes interrupted me. “Miss Miller, so desperate to get married? You’re so desperate to get married you’ll take anyone, even a hand-me-down? Why not consider me instead?” Cole said casually, a cigarette between his fingers. “What do you mean by that, Mr. Hayes? Are you openly opposing me?” Julian stared at him intently. “Exactly what it sounds like.” Cole didn’t even spare him a glance, smiling. “So, Miss Miller, what do you say?” “Yes, Julian.” I completely ignored Cole. “Damn it! Seraphina Miller, you’re just determined to suffer, aren’t you?!” Cole smashed the champagne bar and the flower arch. Then he turned and left. Suddenly, a heavy rain began to fall. The wedding venue was ruined. And just like that, in such a miserable state, I married the man I’d loved my entire youth. That wedding night, I didn’t sleep at all. I was overjoyed, after all, I had waited for this day for so, so long. I knew why Julian chose me. His first love ran away, so naturally, he chose the next best option—the one who could help him the most. He needed me to help him save face. I didn’t care about any of that. I just wanted him. My parents were exasperated, but they spoiled me rotten and let me do as I pleased. After all, we had the means, so what was there to fear?

Actually, during our eight years of marriage, Julian was very good to me. In hazy moments, it felt as though Blair had never even existed. He became known in our circles as a total doting husband. I even started to believe he had fallen in love with me. Julian frequently took me to various galas, openly marking his territory. It was as if he couldn’t bear to be apart from me for a second. Every time, he’d prepare a gorgeous gown for me in advance. Watching me put it on, his eyes would be filled with tenderness and adoration, and he’d softly say, “My Sera is truly beautiful.” At banquets, when others toasted, he would subtly shield me, take the glass, and drink it all down, whispering, “I’m here.” When I stumbled accidentally, he’d quickly catch me, his concerned gaze fixed. “Sera, are you hurt?” His anxious look made the other rich kids tease, “Julian, you’re still so sweet on Sera after all these years.” When Julian wasn’t busy, he’d take me on vacations to a private island. In the island villa, he’d personally cook breakfast for me, the apron softening his usual sharp business edge. Sunlight streamed into the kitchen as he served the fried eggs onto a plate, smiling as he called out, “Come, try it. I hope it’s to your taste.” Walking on the beach, I spotted a seashell. Me, Miss Miller, the heiress to such a powerful family, what expensive trinket haven’t I seen? Suddenly, a playful thought sparked in my mind. “Julian, I like this shell.” Julian didn’t care for his expensive suit getting soaked by the seawater. He stepped into the shallows, picked it up, wiped it clean, and handed it to me. “You’re like a little kid.” But who wouldn’t turn into a child when they feel loved? At night, when nightmares startled me awake, he’d immediately pull me gently into his arms, murmuring like he was soothing a child, “It’s okay, Sera, I’m right here.” Once, a project I was in charge of ran into trouble, leaving me frowning with worry. I didn’t want to tell my parents; I wanted to prove my own capabilities. When Julian found out, he immediately used his connections and even personally got involved in the planning. He gently stroked my hair, coaxing, “Don’t worry, Sera, I’m here.” In that moment, tears welled up in my eyes, brimming with gratitude. I knew that from the moment I agreed to marry him, I’d been burdened by the heavy shackles of being a “stand-in.” Whenever night fell, those doubting voices echoed in my heart, yet I stubbornly searched for a flicker of love in the darkness. Perhaps, Julian’s intentions weren’t pure at first. But in the years of our marriage, every little moment was real. Eight years had accumulated, perhaps he had long forgotten Blair. I immersed myself in Julian’s favoritism towards me. This exception was real and tangible. I tried to break free from the constant cycle of searching for evidence of his love for me in every detail, every day. I gradually stopped thinking about the past. Their past. It would get better. Everything was slowly getting better. But then, Blair came back. And my love story came crashing down. Turns out, my proud marriage was so fragile, so easily shattered.

The next day, the art exhibition opened grandly. I wore a floor-length gown, its tailored cut highlighting my slender waist, the diamond necklace around my neck dazzling brightly. Every movement exuded nobility, captivating the entire room. I saw the awe in Julian’s eyes. And pride. But just then, a sudden car accident shocked the entire city. The moment Julian glimpsed the injured person on someone’s phone, He trembled all over, his eyes bloodshot. He didn’t care that we were at the exhibition, he abandoned me and rushed off. After excusing myself to the organizers, I drove to follow him. Julian was holding Blair, leaving without a backward glance. I was completely blindsided. Blair? When did she come back? Right, only she could make Julian act so recklessly, so utterly without a care. Blair was critically injured, in a coma, her life hanging by a thread. When Julian saw me arrive, his face was filled with rage. He grabbed my collar, roaring, “Was it you? When did you know she was back?!” My eyes widened in shock, tears streaming down my face. “Julian, we’ve been married for eight years. Do you really not know me at all?” Julian was blinded by fury, not listening to any explanation, and he violently flung me away. The next day, I received the divorce papers. I was sitting on the living room sofa, still holding a freshly brewed cup of hot tea. When the assistant handed me the divorce papers, my hand shook uncontrollably, splashing hot tea that scalded my skin, but I didn’t even feel it. My gaze fell on the agreement, my lips trembled, tears streamed down my face. My heart felt as if it had been struck by a heavy hammer, our past affection shattered to pieces. After steadying myself, I signed without hesitation. Let it be. No more fear, no more anxiety. It was time to return what didn’t belong to me. What wasn’t mine had no need for entanglement. It was pouring outside, and I took nothing with me. I sat by the door all night long. Julian never came home. “Let’s meet, my dearest best friend.” Blair’s provocative message came through. I thought it over and over, then decided to go. Some things, I needed to get clear.

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The year I loved Julian Thorne the most, I was forced to personally attend to his pregnant mistress. When his mistress faked an illness, Julian was convinced I’d tampered with her soup. He condemned me to three days and three nights kneeling in the freezing snow. While he was inside the mansion, doting on his mistress. I could hear them, for three days and three nights, their passionate sounds echoing. At one point, I heard Melody Hayes say: “Julian, if you treat Aubrey like this, what if Aubrey stops loving you?” Julian scoffed, a cold sneer on his lips: “Impossible. She loves me so much she’d throw her life away for me.” He was right, I did love him desperately. But what he didn’t know. This love had an expiration date. The doctor said I had ten days before I would completely lose my memory. Julian Thorne slapped me across the face, leaving my left cheek burning. “You jealous witch! If you can’t have children yourself, fine!” “But now Melody’s pregnant, and you’re trying to harm her!” Behind Julian, Melody Hayes wore a triumphant smile. “Julian, what if I told you she did it to herself? Would you believe me?” I pressed a hand to my cheek, my voice barely a whisper. Julian’s cold eyes narrowed, his anger mounting, as he let out a harsh snort. “Are you saying she harmed herself?” “Do you even believe that nonsense coming out of your own mouth?” “Aubrey Sinclair, when did you become this kind of person?” Melody stepped forward and wrapped her arms around Julian’s arm, her voice deliberately sweet: “Julian, it’s my own weak body, don’t blame Aubrey.” Julian sighed in exasperation, then tenderly stroked her head. “My little Melody is always so kind.” Then his voice hardened. “But that doesn’t mean I am.” “Aubrey Sinclair, you should be grateful Melody is unharmed. If anything had happened to her, I’d have made you pay with your life!” “But since you made a mistake, you must accept your punishment.” “I’ll sentence you to kneel in the snow for three days and three nights. No standing.” Melody gasped at his words, feigning concern. “Julian, that’s too harsh! Our wombs are so delicate, what if…?” Julian sneered. “She doesn’t even *have* a womb, what’s there to fear?” At his words, my hand instinctively went to my flat abdomen. Yes, I didn’t have a womb. And I couldn’t bear children. But Julian seemed to have forgotten that if I hadn’t been stabbed in the abdomen while saving him years ago, forcing a hysterectomy, I wouldn’t be without a womb now. “What are you waiting for? Guards!” At his command, two bodyguards grabbed me and dragged me out into the snow. Following Julian’s unspoken signal, they used electric batons to brutally strike the back of my knees. I cried out in pain, forced to my knees in the biting snow. Julian simply uttered, “You reflect on your actions here,” before wrapping his arm around Melody and leading her into the mansion. Soon after, passionate sounds began to emanate from within. Night fell quickly, but the sounds from inside showed no sign of stopping. The sub-zero temperatures, dropping to minus ten degrees, froze me until I was numb. Every time I tried to stand, the guards watching on the security cameras would spot me and strike my knees again. After a while, I lost all strength to even attempt to stand. I shivered uncontrollably, a thick layer of frost coating my face. Inside the warm mansion, Julian ceaselessly took Melody, again and again. At one point, I heard Melody Hayes say: “Julian, if you treat Aubrey like this, what if Aubrey stops loving you?” Julian scoffed at her words. “Impossible. She loves me so much she’d throw her life away for me.” He was right. It was common knowledge among our set: I was utterly, hopelessly devoted to Julian Thorne. Three years ago, when he was attacked at a gala, I didn’t hesitate to shield him from a fatal blow, leading to the removal of my uterus. Two years ago, when his car plunged from a bridge into a lake, I rushed into the freezing water without a second thought to find him, leaving me with a chronic illness that makes my entire body ache every winter. Five months ago, when Melody Hayes discovered she was pregnant, Julian brought her back to the mansion, and I was expected to cater to her every whim, on call 24/7. I even had to go out in the middle of a storm-lashed night to buy their condoms. But what no one knew was that this love had an expiration date. Due to the complications from my hysterectomy, my doctor had told me I had only ten days before I would completely lose my memory.

I knelt in the snow for as long as Julian and Melody were together. Three days and three nights passed, and I had completely lost all sensation. When the staff carried me into the mansion, Julian was getting out of Melody’s bed, looking utterly satisfied. Seeing me, his brow furrowed, and a rare flicker of worry and unease crossed his usually indifferent eyes. He lost control, shouting at Mr. Charles, the butler: “Where’s the doctor?! Get the doctor here now!” By the time the family doctor, Dr. Miller, arrived, I was on the brink of death. Just then, a loud crash came from Melody Hayes’s room. Followed by her cry of pain: “Julian, I accidentally fell! It hurts so much!” Julian instantly panicked. “Dr. Miller, come with me, quickly, to help Melody!” Dr. Miller hesitated for a moment. My skin had taken on a waxy, grayish-white pallor. If I wasn’t treated immediately, I would surely die. He explained my critical condition to Julian, but Julian simply brushed it off. “Her life’s a tough one.” I fought to remain conscious until Dr. Miller returned, though by then, my awareness was fading. Julian and Melody came in with him. Melody looked at my frostbitten body, a flash of surprise in her eyes. Then she abruptly pushed Dr. Miller aside and began rubbing my hands together. Dr. Miller frantically called out to stop her, but it was too late. A large patch of skin had already been rubbed off my left hand. With severe frostbite, rubbing the skin is strictly forbidden; it only causes secondary damage. I found it hard to believe Melody didn’t know this basic first aid. Excruciating pain shot through my left hand, and I bit down hard, clenching my teeth. Dr. Miller immediately rebuked Melody. “Ms. Hayes, what are you doing?! This will only make her condition worse!” Julian watched my tormented expression, his brow furrowing, and for once, he even criticized her. “Melody, couldn’t you have waited for the doctor?” Melody’s eyes instantly welled up. “But I didn’t know it would be like this! I just wanted to help Aubrey!” Hearing her, Julian’s heart immediately softened. He pulled the crying Melody into his embrace, comforting her. “Don’t cry, Melody. It’s not your fault. Did it scare you?” Then he turned to me, his voice dismissive. “I’ll get you the best medicine and resources to save you. Just forgive Melody; she meant well.” “Anyway, you survived the pain of having your uterus removed. This is nothing.” With that, his warm fingers wiped away Melody’s tears. Melody, fresh from crying, looked utterly pathetic and adorable. Julian’s voice was a little husky, teasingly caressing Melody’s nose. “Such a cute little crybaby, is someone getting a little… aroused?” Melody’s face flushed crimson, and she clenched her fists, playfully punching Julian’s chest. “Someone’s here, Julian, don’t be like that!” “This mansion, I call the shots.” When the ambulance Dr. Miller called arrived, Julian swept Melody into his arms and hurried into the master bedroom.

When I woke up in the hospital, Julian was beside me, engrossed in paperwork. “You’re awake?” Julian looked at my weak state, a flicker of tenderness in his eyes, and his voice softened in a way I’d never heard before. “What do you want to eat? I’ll go get it for you.” “Tiramisu.” The word slipped out instinctively. Julian paused for a moment, then said, “Okay, I’ll go buy it for you right now.” I shook my head. “I want the one you make.” That single sentence pulled us back three years. Those were the days I was hospitalized after shielding Julian from that knife. Julian was constantly by my side, tending to my needs. He even learned to make tiramisu himself, just because I loved it. Back then, he’d replay a single cooking tutorial video a hundred times, meticulously researching different ingredients and combinations. He was a quick learner; within days, he’d mastered it. The tiramisu he made was perfect, even better than anything from a bakery. But ever since Melody appeared, he’d never made it for me again. Julian hesitated, then finally agreed. “Alright, I’ll go back and make it immediately. You wait here, okay?” I forced a smile through the pain, replying, “Okay.” For some reason, my smile seemed to freeze him, leaving him stunned for a long moment. After he left, I finally stopped pretending. The pain made me weep. Especially during the dressing change. My left hand was almost completely raw. I had deliberately sent Julian away. My heart had died completely for him; I no longer cared for his sympathy. Wanting tiramisu was a lie; I just wanted to smash the one he made right in front of him. But it was a chance I was destined not to have. About thirty minutes after Julian left, I received a call. It was Melody Hayes. Over the phone, I heard the woman’s unbearable moans and the man’s heavy grunts. I knew then that Julian wouldn’t be making me any tiramisu. Julian pushed open the hospital room door, a flicker of guilt in his eyes. But he quickly composed himself, his voice carefully neutral. “Aubrey, I made this myself. Taste it, is it still the same?” I knew perfectly well, but I took a bite. I feigned a smile. “Mmm, it’s delicious.” Julian’s voice still held a hint of post-intimacy raspiness. “Good, glad you like it.” Just then, my attending physician came in for rounds. He asked if I wanted to take Torrusin. I knew he was referring to the memory recovery drug. They had recently developed a new medication to prevent memory loss. We had discussed it on SnapChat. I observed Julian; he showed no reaction. If only he’d bothered to ask what medication I was taking, he would have known everything. But he didn’t. I decisively refused the doctor. The doctor asked me one last time: “Ms. Sinclair, are you sure? You only have five days until you completely lose…” I gave him a look, and the doctor immediately fell silent. Julian finally frowned, raising his eyes, and asked, a hint of nervousness in his voice: “Lose what?” I suddenly spoke up. “Melody just Snapchatted me saying her stomach hurts, and she couldn’t reach you by phone.” At my words, he immediately grabbed my hand, anxiously saying: “What did you say?!” “How could she not reach me?” I couldn’t help but cry out in pain, and only then did he realize he was gripping my freshly operated-on left hand. Blood soaked through the bandage, staining it crimson. Julian gave me a apologetic look, a hint of hesitation in his eyes. But in the end, he grabbed his documents and hurried out of the hospital room, rushing towards the mansion. The next day, Julian came to visit me again. This time, he brought another tiramisu. I opened the box, about to scoop a spoonful, but he stopped me. “You just had surgery, you can’t eat too much sweet stuff. You need to moderate.” “You definitely won’t stick to it yourself.” “Let me feed you.” I was suddenly reminded of when we first got married. I loved ice cream, and our fridge was always stocked with several tubs. But whenever my period approached, Julian would eat all the ice cream in the fridge. He’d only buy more after my period was over. Because we had an agreement that I wouldn’t eat cold things during my period, but I never stuck to it. As he said this, his expression was a little distant, as if he was thinking of something, and his eyes softened for a rare moment. He scooped a spoonful and held it to my mouth. But I didn’t open it. “Are you upset with me?” Seeing my silence, he wore an “I knew it” expression. “I know you’ve been feeling suffocated lately.” “But Melody is pregnant with our child, can’t you just make allowances for her?” “Melody is only twenty-two, and you’re a thirty-year-old woman. Why are you always bickering with a young girl? Melody even sees you as a sister.” “Anyway, you can’t have children, can you? Just let Melody give birth to my child. For my sake, Melody will let you be the child’s godmother.” I scoffed. “No thanks, I find that repulsive.” Julian instantly became enraged, slamming the spoon onto me. “You truly are stubborn!” Just then, Melody Hayes pushed open the hospital room door and entered. Seeing the scene before her, she immediately rushed forward and grabbed Julian. Feigning anger, she said: “Julian, what are you doing? Aubrey just had surgery!” Julian frowned. “She’s an ungrateful wretch.” “Forget her, Melody, why are you here? Didn’t I tell you to rest?” Melody pouted, looking remorseful. “Aubrey’s skin peeled off because of me. It’s only right that I come to take care of her.” Julian’s face darkened, his eyes like ice. “Nonsense! This is entirely her own fault!” “Not to mention she didn’t take proper care of you, she almost caused you to miscarry! I haven’t even settled that score with her yet!” “Now she’s using her surgery as an excuse to make you wait on her?” With that, he pulled Melody away and left. 5 Melody Hayes sent me a few more explicit pictures. I felt a surge of disgust. My gaze inadvertently fell upon Julian’s left ring finger and I noticed the diamond ring wasn’t his original wedding band. It was a matched set with the one Melody wore. A ring from a brand famed for its ‘one love, one life’ promise. I closed my eyes and turned off my phone. A short while later, another call came in. Mr. Charles, the butler, said Julian wanted a simple wedding for Melody, and Julian had specifically asked me to be the chief planner, claiming I had experience. The reason was Melody’s prenatal depression; she was constantly terrified Julian would abandon her, and he wanted to prove his love for her. They were taking their wedding photos at the beach.

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On my wedding day, a sex tape of Julian Hayes and my cousin, Sera Reed, suddenly flashed across the big screen. Every friend in the industry, every media reporter, spun around to stare at me, camera flashes going off like crazy. The air froze. Everyone waited for my reaction, expecting me to go ballistic right there. But I just curled my lip into a cold, contemptuous smile and motioned for the staff to cut the video. “Let them enjoy themselves. We wouldn’t want to interrupt.” The big screen went black, cutting off the sickening images. Looking at the timestamp and location, the video was taken just last night, at Julian’s hotel. My industry friends and staff who had come to the wedding with me held their breath, cautiously watching my every move. I fought to contain the agony twisting inside me, desperately trying to maintain the composure of a true professional. “My apologies, everyone. Today’s wedding is canceled.” I said it as calmly as I could, but my voice still trembled slightly. The words barely left my lips when Julian burst from the back room, his face a mask of disbelief. “Cancel the wedding? Aurora, what do you mean by that?!” I turned and looked at him, noticing a disheveled woman following close behind him—Sera Reed. “Yes, Aurora, are you perhaps misunderstanding something?” Sera asked, feigning innocence, her eyes, however, glinting with a defiant challenge. “It’s all my fault. Last night was Julian’s bachelor party. We, a bunch of girls, got a little too wild and pushed him to have a few extra drinks. We did lie on the same bed, but nothing happened. This video is fake.” Watching the scene unfold before me, my heart felt like it was being twisted and torn, yet I was powerless. Julian always had a soft spot for Sera, and her words instantly turned his grim expression into a furious snarl. He pointed a furious finger at my face, “Aurora Vance, I can tolerate your jealousy on normal days, but today is our wedding! How can you be so unreasonable? You’re canceling the wedding over *this* little thing?!” Before I could even open my mouth, they just kept piling on the accusations. My hands clenched into fists, my heart felt like it was being sliced open, and my voice turned ice-cold. “Julian Hayes, you know it’s our wedding today? Then tell me, what kind of groom lies in the same bed as his fiancée’s cousin the night before his wedding?” “My husband would never be that kind of man. And he never will be!” I looked at him and Sera. Standing together, their faces and necks were covered in matching hickeys! “I get it. After all these years, she’s always been first in your heart. Since you two are so deeply entwined, then I’ll make it happen for you right now! From today on, you two can openly sleep together. May you both grow old together!” With those words, I left Julian and Sera stunned, turning and walking away. Julian had never seen me so resolute. For a moment, he froze, his eyes wide with disbelief. He even forgot to stop me or the guests leaving behind me. After leaving the hotel, I apologized to my accompanying staff and friends, then called my agent to explain the situation. When Ms. Albright heard I’d canceled the wedding on the spot, she was first shocked, then let out a deep sigh. “You’re a public figure, you have to be responsible for your decisions. I’ll respect your choice.” Ms. Albright said solemnly. I fought back tears, choking out an apology to my agent, assuring her I’d handle all the follow-up PR matters. Only after I’d dealt with everything did I hide away in the dressing room, carefully wiping the makeup from my face. The woman in the mirror, Her eyes were filled with exhaustion and disappointment, Yet she still maintained the dignity expected of a celebrity. My reflection in the makeup mirror showed a smudged face, vacant eyes. Once a dazzling award-winning actress, I now looked like a discarded extra. So pathetic. There was nothing left of the celebrity I was supposed to be. It was just like the past few years of my relationship with Julian. Julian and I met at an award ceremony. Back then, his acting was brilliant, he was dedicated, professional, and kind to everyone. I secretly admired him for a long time and confessed my feelings multiple times. It wasn’t until the fourth movie we worked on together wrapped filming that he finally accepted my pursuit. I knew he grew up in foster care and lacked a sense of security, so I was completely open about my finances and shared all my financial details and assets, and I was completely transparent about my schedule, giving him all the trust and security he needed. In the beginning, our relationship was sweet and happy. We often attended events together, hailed by the media as the model couple of the entertainment industry. But after Sera returned from abroad, our conflicts grew daily. Sera is my cousin; she and Julian attended the same performing arts academy and grew from green newcomers into popular stars. Later, Sera got the chance to develop her career in Hollywood and abandoned Julian without hesitation. Julian was heartbroken then and, during his career low point, accepted my invitation to work on a film. He used to say gratefully that my encouragement helped him rediscover his passion for acting. But as soon as Sera reappeared, he forgot all my sacrifices. On our three-year anniversary, I booked a Michelin three-star restaurant. He, however, brushed me off, claiming he had to film, only to turn around and take Sera to that very restaurant. They later posted romantic candlelit dinner photos on social media. I was so furious I confronted him. “How could you have dinner with another woman? That was the place I specifically booked for *us*!” He looked utterly annoyed at the time and snapped, “Why are you so petty? It’s just dinner, why are you making such a big deal out of it?!” Sera also feigned innocence, mediating between us, “Aurora, Julian and I just have a professional working relationship. We were just practicing a scene that day. If it caused a misunderstanding, I’ll keep my distance from him in the future.” Julian immediately flew into a rage, “Why should I cater to her? She’s such a high-maintenance drama queen, always making a scene!” I was shaking with anger, but Julian’s fury was even greater than mine; he caused a huge commotion on set. In the end, under pressure from the director, and to avoid affecting the filming schedule, I was the one who backed down first, going to his dressing room to apologize. I pleaded and coaxed, and even agreed to take on some less desirable projects for him, before he finally calmed down. Another time, Julian told me he was injured and asked me to bring some nourishing food. I thought he was badly hurt, so I specifically consulted a holistic practitioner and brewed a nutritious stew for four hours. Braving a heavy downpour, I drove to the studio complex where he was. To save time, I ran a red light on the way and almost got hit by a big truck. Although I managed to brake in time and avoided a crash, my car still skidded and hit the guardrail on the side of the road. When passersby took me to the hospital, I was still clutching that insulated container tightly. The doctor said I had a mild concussion, but I insisted on being discharged. When I arrived on set, I saw Julian and Sera laughing and going over the script together. His “injury” was just special effects makeup, purely for the shoot. Seeing my disheveled state, Julian showed no reaction, nonchalantly taking the insulated container. Sera, however, gave me a meaningful look, a faint smile playing on her lips. She complained, “What took you so long? Julian was practically starving by the time you arrived!” “Oh, forget her. Come on, let’s eat…” All these years, he repeatedly ignored me for Sera. I tolerated and compromised again and again, until finally, I was utterly exhausted by love. But our wedding date was set, and after so many years of dating, my love for him had become a habit. To maintain the relationship, I gave up many good roles, even turning down invitations from international acclaimed directors. But Julian didn’t seem to appreciate it. He always used work as an excuse to get involved in rumors with other actresses. Every time I confronted him, he would put on an innocent act, saying it was all just publicity, for the buzz. I chose to believe him because I didn’t want to admit that all my efforts were in vain. So I always fantasized that maybe our relationship would improve after marriage. After we were married, Julian would perhaps realize my importance and curb his womanizing tendencies, and we would rediscover the feeling of when we first fell in love. But I failed. He not only didn’t settle down, he even escalated, Sleeping in the same bed with my cousin, Sera Reed, the night before our wedding! It had come to this. I had no more illusions about him. I had naively thought marriage would settle him down, but reality slapped me hard in the face. The man who once made my heart pound now left me with nothing but disappointment and a sense of strangeness. Looking at my exhausted reflection in the mirror, I decided I wouldn’t waste another tear on someone undeserving. I wiped away the tear stains with a cotton pad, adjusted my makeup in the mirror, making sure I still looked radiant. Taking a deep breath, I stepped into my luxurious apartment. However, I never expected Julian to already be waiting for me there. He was sitting on my favorite leather sofa, looking at me apologetically, holding a large bouquet of roses. The company had found a wedding home for us last year, but Julian had been unwilling to move in because the apartment was too far from Sera’s studio. And the place we rented before was only a fifteen-minute drive from Sera’s studio. So, even though the new house had been renovated for over a year, it remained empty. We had planned to move into the new house after the wedding, but now that the wedding was canceled, this place had no purpose. So when I stepped into the living room and found Julian already there, my first question was: “What are you doing here?” Julian’s expression instantly stiffened, but he quickly forced a smile and walked towards me. “Aurora Vance, can we talk?” he said softly, a hint of plea in his eyes. “I just had my assistant order all your favorite dishes.” The dining table behind him was laden with exquisite food, the aroma wafting through the air. “Even though you misunderstood me, I forgive you. I won’t hold it against you for canceling the wedding. Let’s just eat.” If it were before, seeing Julian so humble, I would have softened and agreed, then we would have reconciled. But now, looking at him, I felt my heart growing colder and colder. The man who once made my heart race now seemed nothing but hypocritical and ridiculous in my eyes. “Julian Hayes, I made myself very clear today. We are broken up.” I said icily. His smile faltered, and his voice took on a hint of impatience. “I already apologized to you, what more do you want?” For years, I had always been the one to coax him, so he couldn’t accept my cold words. His expression crumpled into one of self-pity. “I even had my assistant prepare a table full of your favorite dishes. See, I rushed here so fast, I even left the company without–” “Julian Hayes.” I cut him off. “Do you remember that I’m allergic to seafood?” *** That table, besides the steamed lobster, also had abalone rice. I’m allergic to seafood; I can’t eat a single bite. But Sera’s favorite food is seafood! Julian didn’t remember my preferences or allergies at all, but he knew all of Sera’s quirks inside and out. Or rather, it wasn’t that he didn’t remember; he just didn’t care about me.

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When the doctor told me I might never be able to have children again, Julian’s first reaction was pure agony: “How could this happen to Scarlett? She wants a child so badly!” Scarlett. She was the one he’d always yearned for, the unattainable ideal. Even my five-year-old son ran up to me, his voice sharp with accusation: “Mommy, did you do this on purpose? Daddy says if Aunt Scarlett could have a baby, she’d be way better than you!” A cold realization hit me. In this house, my worth, even as a potential mother, couldn’t measure up to the ghost of his past, the shadow of a woman who wasn’t even here. I was done. I left a divorce agreement and vanished from their lives. I gripped the thin, yet ton-heavy diagnosis – “Unlikely to conceive again.” My hands shook so violently I could barely hold the paper. The sterile white of the hospital corridor blurred, the world spun, leaving only those crushing words, like ice picks tearing through my heart. Why me? Fighting back the torrent of tears, I floated home like a phantom. He glanced up as I walked in, casually asking, “How was the check-up? What did the doctor say?” His tone was light, dismissive. My movements froze. I took a deep, shuddering breath, walked up to him, my voice trembling uncontrollably. “Julian, the doctor said… I might… I might not be able to get pregnant again.” His smile shattered, freezing on his face. After a few seconds of stunned silence, his brows furrowed, tightening into a worried knot. Then, almost a reflex, the words burst out, a bombshell that rocked my world: “How can that be? What about Scarlett? She wants a child so badly…” Scarlett. Scarlett Davies. The woman he’d held in his heart for years, the unattainable ideal he always craved. My blood seemed to turn to ice, chilling me from head to toe. My fingertips quivered uncontrollably. I stared at the man before me, disbelief clawing at my throat. “…What did you say?” My voice was raspy, like sandpaper, every word a struggle to force out. Julian seemed to realize he’d spoken out of turn, but there wasn’t a trace of apology in his eyes. He just turned away, his face etched with annoyance, avoiding my piercing gaze. He tried to backtrack, his voice clipped and stiff: “That’s not what I meant… It’s just… Ugh, this is so sudden, I…” Here I was, just delivered the devastating news that my hope for more children was almost gone, my body and soul in tatters, desperate for comfort and support. And his first reaction wasn’t to worry about my health, or to share my pain and despair. No, it was for Scarlett Davies, a woman who had absolutely no place in our family – *she* wanted a child? So, my inability to conceive again, was first and foremost a betrayal to *his* unattainable ideal? My mouth opened, but no sound came out. The man before me, so familiar yet utterly a stranger, sent a chill so profound it settled deep in my bones, alongside an absurd, cutting irony. These past five years, a colossal, cruel joke. I watched him pace irritably in the living room, then walk onto the balcony, pulling out his phone to make a call. His voice was low, but I clearly caught a few phrases: “…Don’t even ask. My wife’s body isn’t cooperating… Yeah, it is… Ugh, such a hassle…” My body isn’t cooperating?

The next morning, the house was a frozen wasteland. His attitude towards me was noticeably colder, his eyes holding an unspoken distance and a barely disguised disappointment. On the wall hung our family portrait, the three of us. In the photo, my smile was radiant, nestled beside Julian, who held little Leo. The scene was as warm as a meticulously painted oil canvas. Now, looking at it, all I felt was bitter irony. I silently picked up the toys scattered on the carpet, Leo’s masterpiece from last night. Just as I bent to grab a Transformer, Leo’s bedroom door opened. “Mommy!” My five-year-old son, Leo, dashed out. He ran up to me and delivered a blow that felt sharper than any knife: “Mommy! Why can’t you have a baby sister anymore? Daddy says Aunt Scarlett would be better than you if she could have a baby!” My brain exploded. Spots danced before my eyes, my ears rang, and I swayed, almost losing my balance. Aunt Scarlett… Scarlett Davies… He didn’t just feel sorry for Scarlett himself; he’d poisoned our innocent five-year-old son with such vicious, twisted ideas! My face went ashen, my entire body shaking uncontrollably. “Leo…” My voice was horribly hoarse, like an old bellows. “Who… who taught you to say that? Tell Mommy, who was it?” Leo was startled by my pale face and trembling voice. His little lip trembled, and tears welled up, threatening to spill over. “Leo!” Julian’s voice boomed from the study, laced with obvious impatience and a hint of… guilt? He strode over quickly, yanked our son away from me, pulling him behind him as if shielding a precious treasure, cutting off my view of Leo. He didn’t even spare me a glance, only addressed our son, but his words were clearly a “defense” aimed at me: “What does a child know? Don’t scare him!” His eyes were cold as ice, his tone scathing: “It’s the truth, your body isn’t well, so why blame others for saying it? Leo just spoke the truth, why are you so upset?!” He stood on a pedestal of moral superiority, mercilessly judging me. In that moment, I clearly felt the chasm between me and my son being forcibly widened by the man I once loved so deeply.

It felt like my heart had died; there was no greater sorrow. Just as I thought I would slowly numb in this silence, a message from Scarlett arrived, unexpected. “Clara, I heard you’re not doing well? How are you lately? I’m a bit worried about you, thought we could grab coffee and clear your head.” Her tone was gentle, oozing with “concern” and “sisterly affection.” *Ha*. Worried about me? More like eager to see me suffer. Julian’s words, “What about Scarlett?” still echoed in my ears. My instinct was to refuse this hypocritical invitation. But then, a perverse curiosity took hold. I wanted to see what kind of game this “white moonlight,” whom Julian cherished above his own wife and son, was planning to play. “Sure, Scarlett, you’re too kind. Just tell me where.” I replied with a calmness that surprised even myself. The café she picked was a chic, expensive, trendy spot. Scarlett was already there, seated by the window. The afternoon sun filtered through the glass, softly outlining her perfectly delicate profile. She was impeccably dressed today, radiating an air of delicate charm. A brand-new luxury designer bag lay casually beside her. Seeing me approach, she instantly stood, gracefully stepping forward. “Clara, you’re here. Please, sit.” She took my hand. Her fingertips were warm and soft, making my own, cold and stiff from days of shock and heartbreak, feel even more pathetic. “Clara, I’m truly sorry to hear… Julian told me. Don’t be too sad. It’s tough for a woman, you know, if you can’t have children anymore. It’s quite a shame.” A flicker of triumph, quickly masked, danced in her eyes. Beneath that seemingly sincere expression of regret, her schadenfreude was unmistakable. Three pleasantries in, and her real “performance” began. “But don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Julian… he still cares about you, you know.” Her voice held a seemingly “innocent” sigh, yet every word was designed to wound. “It’s just, you know how Julian is; he’s always loved children. He always said he wanted a bustling home, preferably three or four kids. If it hadn’t been for your ability to have children back then…” She paused deliberately, lifting her gaze to me, her eyes filled with feigned sympathy: “Ah, what a pity… He so desperately craved a complete family with children around him. If only back then…” She let the sentence hang, unfinished. If only what? She was blatantly implying that my body’s failure had left an irreparable “void” in his life. And she, Scarlett Davies, was the one who could fulfill his dreams. My heart was cold, my blood seeming to cease its flow. Yet, I struggled to maintain a semblance of composure and dignity. She elegantly raised her hand, gently stroking the exquisitely delicate, diamond-studded bracelet on her wrist. The bracelet shimmered, catching the afternoon sunlight in dazzling, almost blinding flashes. She noticed my gaze on the bracelet, explaining with a touch of coy bashfulness: “Oh, this? Julian just gave it to me. He said he specifically got it from a renowned spiritual retreat; it’s called a ‘fertility bracelet’ and brings good luck for conception… he said it would surely help me realize my dream of becoming a mother.” She continued, turning her “sympathetic” gaze back to me: “Ah, I was going to offer to get you one if you liked it. But it’s a shame, now that you… probably wouldn’t need it.” At the very moment I was diagnosed with a potentially barren future, Julian, my husband, bought *her* a “fertility bracelet”? And he wished *her* to “realize her dream of becoming a mother soon”?

So, Julian didn’t just feel for his unattainable ideal with words; his actions had already been this “thoughtful” and “far-sighted.” Enough. Just *enough*. The last shred of illusion I held for this marriage shattered, completely and utterly, under Scarlett’s meticulously orchestrated “performance.” I placed my water glass down. It hit the polished tabletop with a sharp, clear *clink*, successfully cutting off whatever more “dramatic” lines Scarlett had planned. I tugged at the corners of my mouth, forcing out a cold, hollow smile, staring directly into her eyes, which were brimming with hypocrisy: “Miss Davies, you’ve gone to great lengths. But my affairs are none of your concern. As for your ‘fertility charm,’ keep it and enjoy it all to yourself.” “You can finish that coffee on your own.” With that, I grabbed my bag from beside me and walked out of the café without a backward glance. Outside, the sunlight was intense, almost blinding. I returned to the place I called “home,” which felt more like a cage now. The sprawling house was empty. I didn’t turn on any lights, walking directly to the living room sofa and sinking down. Darkness gently enveloped me, amplifying the emptiness and resolve within my heart. My husband’s slip of the tongue, my son’s accusation, the “white moonlight’s” sickening display… The scenes of the past few days replayed in my mind, slow-motion, painfully clear. Every image, every word, felt like a thousand cuts to my soul. I sat in the dark for a long, long time, until the sky outside the window began to show the first hint of dawn. I stood up, still no lights on, and walked straight into the master bedroom. I only took a few casual outfits from college, comfortable though rarely worn now, along with essential undergarments and basic toiletries. My movements were frighteningly calm, as if I were merely packing for a short trip. But now, I was saying goodbye to that identity, forever. From the dusty depths of a drawer in his study, I pulled out a long-forgotten document – the divorce agreement. I’d actually printed it out a long time ago, in a fit of impulse after a furious argument with Julian about Scarlett. Back then, I just wanted to force Julian to make a choice, or perhaps, to childishly scare him into realizing I had boundaries. Laughably, when he saw the agreement, he merely scoffed, dismissively asking what “drama” I was causing now, then casually tossed it into the bottom of the drawer and never mentioned it again. Looking back, he must have been utterly convinced from the start that I couldn’t leave him, couldn’t abandon this privileged life, or the prestigious title of “Mrs. Julian Harrison.” I picked up the pen. Without a single hesitation, I signed my name, Clara Bennett, clearly and firmly, on the “Wife” line at the bottom of the dusty agreement. Next to it, I took off my wedding ring and gently placed it on the document. Finally, I took one last look around the house I had called home for five years. Pulling a simple suitcase, I silently walked out of that house, out of that suffocating marriage. I blocked and deleted Julian and everyone in his circle.

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My mom was a DEA agent, lost in the line of duty. Since I was a little kid, I had one dream: to reclaim her badge number. The moment I found out my scores were high enough for the police academy, I called my dad, buzzing with excitement. But he blew up. “You, a good-for-nothing loser like you, want to be a cop? Reclaim your mom’s badge number?! Don’t you dare shame your mother! Get lost!” My heart froze solid, my world crumbling around me. I stumbled home, only to be surrounded by a gang of addicts in a dark alley. “Heard your mom, Sergeant Dana, was a narcotics expert, trained a bunch of hotshots, made it impossible for us to even get a fix? Come on, let’s talk!” Naturally, I fought back with everything I had. But they were ready. A sharp knife plunged into my lower back, draining all my strength. Before I blacked out, my dad’s last words echoed in my mind. Dad, did I really disgrace Mom…? It was the dead of night when the police got a call. A large pool of blood was found in a dark alley in South Bayport, but no one was around. The caller thought it was just some drunk fight and quickly reported it, hoping the police would find the injured person and get them to a hospital fast. The police rushed to the scene, only to find the heavy rain had already washed away most of the blood, making it a chaotic mess! There wasn’t a trace of the injured person nearby. They immediately launched a carpet search and soon found dismembered body parts in an abandoned factory nearby. The morgue lights flickered on. “What’s the situation with this case?” A calm, steady male voice broke the silence. A man in a crisp forensic uniform walked in with two young police officers. This was my dad, Dr. Miles, the top forensic pathologist in Bayport. “Dr. Miles, the victim’s condition is pretty grim. Maybe you should prepare yourself…” Dad waved a dismissive hand. “What kind of body haven’t I seen? Just start the autopsy. Let’s solve this case as soon as possible!” He was right. Dad had been practicing for nearly twenty years. He’d seen it all: bloated bodies, headless corpses, dismembered remains, even bodies encased in concrete or reduced to fluid. When it came to forensics, he was a pro. But Dad, did you ever think that the body on that autopsy table… would be your most disregarded daughter? I floated in the air, watching my dad work with a strange detachment. The moment he unzipped the body bag, his brow furrowed. It wasn’t just the jumbled mess of flesh and bone inside; it was the missing, most crucial part. “Where’s the head? Where did it go?” “Uh… Dr. Miles, we searched that abandoned factory thoroughly, but we couldn’t find it. Most likely, the suspect took it.” “Forget it! Let’s start the autopsy.” Dad put on his gloves and began his professional sorting. Bone fragments, tissue, finger pieces… Everything he could identify was carefully laid out. “The victim is female, growth plates were narrow, not yet fully fused, estimated age between eighteen and twenty-three. Height between 5’3” and 5’7”. Probably a student.” “Based on the vitality of the cuts, the culprits must have first brutally broken this kid’s finger bones, radius, ulna, humerus, tibia, and femur while she was still alive. Then they dismembered her limbs. It seems that wasn’t enough for them; they used other blunt objects. Her ribs and spine are almost entirely fractured into tiny pieces…” Dad reported the findings professionally, while the young officer in charge of recording had already gone paper-white. Just hearing the description made him want to throw up! It was even harder to imagine the pain and despair the victim must have experienced! Dad suddenly turned. “Was a murder weapon found at the scene?” “Uh, yes, sir.” The young officer quickly handed a set of photos to Dad. It showed a saw covered in rust and blood, and a large sledgehammer caked with blood and tissue. A dull saw, used to savagely cut off every one of the victim’s fingers, every joint… The pain such weapons would inflict on a living person was beyond words!

Dad frowned deeply. “This wasn’t a random attack, was it? How much hatred could they possibly have for this kid?” Normally, even in a revenge attack, the assailants wouldn’t go to such extremes. The young officer respectfully replied, “Dr. Miles, preliminary investigations by Detective Reed’s Serious Crimes Unit have ruled out robbery and random attacks. It’s definitely a vendetta. Detective Reed and his team are now checking all newly reported missing person cases across the city.” “Understood.” Dad quickly pieced together the body parts, hoping to find some useful information to help solve the case. But it was all in vain. Even teeth, which can identify a person no matter how disfigured, had been taken by the criminals along with the head. Identifying the true identity of a nearly pulverized body, without any clothing, was almost impossible! I floated in the air, half relieved, half wistful. Good, Dad didn’t recognize me. Otherwise, he’d probably call me a loser again… Dad sighed. “What a pathetic kid! Why inflict such cruelty on a child because of their parents’ feuds…” There were tears glimmering in Dad’s eyes. Dad, meticulously piecing together every inch of bone. Dad, desperately searching for every bit of useful information. Dad, showing sympathy for a stranger, a headless female corpse. He felt so… unfamiliar. I knew Dad didn’t like me. When I was in elementary school, I had a fever on a rainy night. He took me to the emergency room alone. Dad thought Mom, who worked tirelessly day and night, deserved some rest, so he didn’t wake her. But Dad didn’t know that Mom got an urgent mission notification shortly after. She didn’t even wash her face before rushing to the scene. And it was that rainy night that Mom died in a shootout with The Viper. Mom’s body… Dad handled that one too. I was too young then to understand what death meant, what it felt like. Now that I think about it, even Dad wouldn’t want to personally send off his own wife, right? It was all my fault, for getting that strange fever on that particular night. It was only natural for Dad to hate me. If I hadn’t been sick, Dad would have fought to stop Mom from going on that mission, and if she hadn’t gone, Mom wouldn’t have died. It was all my fault… I looked down at Dad, who still hadn’t recognized me on the autopsy table. I glanced at the body again, fragmented and soiled. Covered in what looked like mud or blood, each piece of flesh looked gray and black, no different from leftover food dumped in a sewer. Even I couldn’t have recognized myself. No wonder Dad didn’t. The tranquil morgue was suddenly pierced by a ringing phone. Dad stopped, frowning, and looked at the two young officers. They shook their heads quickly. “Dr. Miles, we didn’t bring anything in!” Dad then realized it was his own phone. He pulled off his gloves to check. It was Aunt Sarah. “Hello? I’m busy…” “Oh, Miles, I don’t know… Chloe, have you seen her? I can’t reach her phone…” “Chloe?” Hearing my name, Dad’s brow furrowed. “I don’t know! I disciplined her yesterday. She’s probably out messing around. Just ignore her!” Aunt Sarah sounded anxious. “Why did you scold her again? I heard Chloe scored really well on her college entrance exams, enough for the police academy! She was so happy yesterday!” “Police academy, my foot! Someone as worthless as her? She should just pick some easy major, get a regular job, and make money! Becoming a cop would be an insult to the entire profession!” Dad’s voice was as sharp as ever.

Aunt Sarah was silent for a moment. “That’s been Chloe’s dream for ages. She finally did so well on her exams, and I was planning to invite her over for a big dinner. I bought so much seafood…” Dad was furious. “I forbid her from applying to the police academy! If she does, then she’s no daughter of mine! She can go die for all I care!” With that, Dad hung up. He seemed to forget he wasn’t alone, his chest heaving with anger as he stood by the autopsy table, speechless for a long time. I’m sorry, Dad. I won’t apply to the police academy. Please don’t be angry; it’s not good for you. I wanted to say that so badly, but all I could do was float in the air, watching everything unfold, utterly powerless. I wanted to cry, but as a spirit, I had no tears. By now, Dad had pieced together most of the body, but he couldn’t put my ten fingers back together. He frowned deeply, instructing the young officer to record. “Right ring finger and pinky are missing. Have the officers at the scene search again. If they can’t find them…” My heart clenched. When I was little, I was mischievous and went to tease a police dog. It bit through the flesh of these two fingers, leaving terrible scars. That dog, because of my accidental injury, was forced into early retirement. Dad scolded me relentlessly for that incident. Had he forgotten? Of course, Dad didn’t care about me at all… No! It’s better if Dad doesn’t remember! I don’t want Dad to know that he personally sent off both his wife and daughter! The young officer saluted. “Understood! If they’re not found, it means those two fingers have distinct identifying features!” Dad nodded. “Exactly. To find the victim, look for individuals with old injuries or tattoos on their hands!” He cut a small piece of flesh. “Get a DNA test done. Compare it with the database. Find the direct relatives as soon as possible!” Hearing Dad say that, my heart clenched. If they checked DNA, wouldn’t I be exposed quickly?! Dad! Don’t check the DNA! Dad! Let this case go! Don’t investigate further! I screamed silently, but Dad heard not a single word. Dad worked in the morgue for over ten hours. He’d arrived at dawn, and by the time he emerged, night had fallen again. “Dr. Miles, you’ve worked tirelessly.” Dad nodded, about to head home for rest, but then he saw Aunt Sarah waiting anxiously at the police station entrance. “Miles, Chloe’s been missing for a whole day and night! I asked her classmates; no one’s seen her! I checked all the entertainment spots near the school, couldn’t find her! What do we do?!” Dad looked annoyed, his brows tightly knit. “This is just her using petty tricks to make me agree to her joining the police academy! Impossible! Someone as worthless as her just needs to be law-abiding. What, she wants to uphold justice too?!” Aunt Sarah was on the verge of tears. “Forget about college applications for now! Our child’s safety is more important! I just came here and heard about a major case! A young girl, just turned adult, was dismembered, right?! Aren’t you worried Chloe might have run into those people?” Dad snapped back. “Don’t pry into cases that haven’t been announced! Chloe is eighteen; she can take care of herself! If something happened to her, she can only blame her own bad luck! Knowing how dangerous it is out there, why did she have to go running off?!” Aunt Sarah paused. “I’m not prying, I… I’m just afraid something happened to Chloe!” Dad’s eyes held contempt. “If she can’t even manage basic risk assessment or know how to avoid danger, then what good is she for the police academy? She might as well go get a job!”

“Miles Chen! Listen to yourself! Chloe lost her mom when she was little; she’s already had it tough enough! She didn’t let it get her down; she became even more driven, and you keep knocking her down every single day! Are you even human?!” Aunt Sarah shrieked, tears streaming down her face. “I’m telling you, you’d better pray to God the victim in this case isn’t Chloe! Otherwise, you’ll regret it for the rest of your life!” My heart leaped. Had Aunt Sarah found out? But looking at her expression, it didn’t seem like she knew the truth. It was more like she was deliberately trying to provoke Dad. Sure enough, at her words, Dad’s face instantly changed. “Impossible! Don’t you think I’d know my own daughter?! The victim in there absolutely cannot be Chloe!” Aunt Sarah bit her lip. “If it really is Chloe, don’t even think about claiming her body back! You never liked the kid anyway; let her come back to our family!” Dad raised his voice. “Fine! Take her! Do you think I care?! I’ve wanted that bad luck charm out of my life for years!” Aunt Sarah trembled with rage. “You rotten Miles Chen! If you don’t want Chloe, I do! Such a good kid, she’s suffered enough injustice living with you! You cold-blooded, heartless bastard! Ugh!” I floated in the air, a little overwhelmed. I knew Aunt Sarah was incredibly good to me. After Mom died, Dad rarely paid attention to me. Beyond making sure I ate, he ignored everything else. I still remember Aunt Sarah being the one who bought me my first bras and sanitary pads during my teenage years. I wanted to study hard and get into the police academy, but Dad wouldn’t pay for tutoring classes. In the end, it was Aunt Sarah who secretly took me to enroll. From the smallest daily necessities to tutoring, smartphones, tablets, and computers, Aunt Sarah almost always paid for them out of her own pocket. To Aunt Sarah, I was practically her own daughter. Aunt Sarah, fuming, stormed out of the police station, her trembling fingers typing a message on her phone. I floated over, peering at the screen. ‘Chloe, it’s not safe out there right now. No matter how angry you are at your dad, you still need to come home! If you don’t want to come home, that’s fine. Come to Aunt Sarah’s. I’ll send you to college and pay your tuition! We don’t need your dad. Aunt Sarah’s place will always be your home, sweetie. Be good.’ I blinked, feeling tears well up. Aunt Sarah had lost her only sister on that rainy night years ago too. Yet, she didn’t hate me like Dad did. Instead, she poured all the love she had for her sister into me. I’m so sorry, Aunt Sarah. I’m afraid I’m destined to disappoint you. It seemed that because my body was inside the police station, I couldn’t follow Aunt Sarah further than a certain distance. I could only watch helplessly as she left. When I floated back into the station, I found Dad slumped in a chair, looking exhausted. Officer Miller saw him and couldn’t help but advise, “Dr. Miles, you’ve worked for twenty hours straight. You should go home and rest!” But Dad shook his head. “No, I’m a bit uneasy about this case… I’ll just rest here briefly, then go back and see if there are any more clues on the body.” “Uh… alright.” I watched Dad’s swaying body, both admiring his dedication and wishing he’d get some proper rest. … “The DNA results are in!” A shout echoed through the police station, instantly energizing everyone! Even I couldn’t help but feel a surge of tension! Dad, who had been staying at the station for two nights, rushed to the data room. “The database, has it been checked? Have you identified the victim?” “Still comparing. It’s taking a bit. Don’t rush!” Everyone gathered around the computer, nervously watching the progress bar crawl forward. 75%… 88%… 95%… 100%! Everyone held their breath, waiting for the final result.

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My wealthy wife would ‘gift’ me an investment property every time she spent the night at her male assistant’s place. Two years into our marriage, I held titles to 96 properties scattered across the city. Each one a stark reminder of the 96 times she’d wounded me. When the 97th property deed landed in my hands, her male assistant immediately sent me a taunting video. “So what if Celeste gives you money? I have her heart, her very being. What good is being an international supermodel if you still can’t even get your own wife into bed?” I didn’t stoop to his level. Instead, I thoughtfully mailed him a new, high-fashion outfit straight from the latest runway. When my wife found out about my generous gift, she rewarded me by inviting me to an exclusive high-society party with her. During a party game, her male assistant lost three times in a row and was dared to lick the cream off Cassie Vane’s thigh. He shattered a wine bottle, pressing the jagged edge to his throat, vowing not to comply. “Celeste, I refuse to let anyone humiliate me!” My usually aloof wife instantly panicked. She pleaded with me to take the punishment for him. “It’s just licking some cream. I promise that after this, I’ll go home and spend some quality time with you.” Everyone waited for me to make a fool of myself, but I quietly accepted without a fuss. She didn’t know this was the 97th time she’d hurt me. And I no longer wanted to be her plaything. I was simply waiting to repay her kindness for saving me. Once that was done, we’d have nothing left between us.

“Oh, the international supermodel actually agreed to lick it? What a woman Celeste is, she really knows how to handle her men!” “What if he doesn’t lick it, then? Are we really going to let Leo do it? That’s Celeste’s precious Leo, the one she’s always pined for!” The mocking chatter around me was incessant, and I felt nothing but humiliation amidst it all. Yet, amidst this sickening display of condescension, Celeste Kingston half-knelt in front of Leo Thorne, carefully applying a bandage to his neck. Then she turned, her eyes cold as she gestured at me. “Asher Hayes, don’t play games. Leo is waiting for you to finish so we can continue the game.” Leo, Leo… She only cared about Leo, never once asking if I was willing. She completely forgot I was her husband. Seeing me frozen, someone abruptly shoved me. “Why are you just standing there? Go on, lick it! You’re not backing out, are you?” I stumbled, regaining my balance, and looked at Celeste again. Her gaze was already fixed entirely on Leo once more. “Ninety-six times. This is the ninety-sixth time.” I silently counted, stiffly walking towards Cassandra Vane, the notorious socialite who had cream on her leg. But just as I stooped down, her hand suddenly clamped onto my chin. She looked at Leo. “Mr. Thorne, this isn’t right. You lost three rounds to me. Just one lick won’t do.” “How about the ‘Egg Challenge’? If you can convince him to do it, the punishment is null and void.” The ‘Egg Challenge’? What in the world was that?! An unknown dread immediately surged through me. I quickly looked to Celeste. But the next second, Leo was already looking at Celeste with pleading eyes, clinging to her arm, whimpering playfully. “Celeste, it’s just a dare. Can you get Asher to agree just this once…?” Seeing Leo’s fragile body trembling, Celeste was filled with nothing but tenderness. Her eyes blazed as she looked at me. “Asher, you’re willing to lick cream, so you won’t mind taking another dare for Leo, right?” “Yay! Thank you, Celeste!” Leo jumped up, beaming with triumph. Watching Celeste gently ruffle Leo’s hair, her expression doting and indulgent, I started to laugh. My dignity had been trampled. I was nothing but a toy, to be tormented and played with. Celeste, how could you be so heartless as to make me perform some twisted act, to be humiliated for him again? Oh, right, I almost forgot. Leo was her unattainable moon. She’d pursued him for years with no success. Then, their families had torn them apart, and Leo had left the country overnight. Now that she finally had what she desired, how could I possibly compete? Suppressing the bitterness in my heart, I spoke stiffly. “So, does that count as a forgiveness voucher?” A forgiveness voucher? Everyone laughed at my strange question, but Celeste suddenly looked at me. She knew what I was talking about. After a moment, she nodded. “It counts!” I gave a bitter laugh. “Alright, I agree.” Eight years ago, I had just entered the modeling world when I was noticed by a powerful, ruthless circle of women, who essentially confined me on an island. There, alongside other young men, I became their… ‘entertainment.’ I was lucky. Celeste Kingston was the first woman I met there, and she fell for me instantly. For my sake, she systematically took over their businesses, ensured they ended up behind bars, and rescued me from that life. Only later did I learn that my features bore an uncanny resemblance to Leo’s. But on the night I was rescued, I asked her how I could repay her kindness. Her eyes were sincere. “Marry me.” I gave her a playful squeeze. “I’m serious.” Her breath hitched as she clung to me, her words a tangled whisper: “Then… give me ninety-nine forgiveness vouchers.” “Forgiveness vouchers?” I was curious, clinging to her, not understanding. At that moment, she smiled. “Silly boy. If—and I mean *if*—if one day, I hurt you ninety-nine times, I’ll use these vouchers to make you forgive me ninety-nine times. Once the vouchers are used up, this debt of gratitude will be paid off.” For the next five years, she poured massive resources into my career, turning me into an international supermodel. She cherished me like precious treasure. Until two months ago, when Leo returned. Everything changed. This was the 97th time. Just two more. My debt would be repaid. Seeing Celeste agree, Cassie Vane pulled me into her private VIP room, a dimly lit chamber draped in silk. Boiled eggs were scattered across a low table, and on the floor, two or three men lay in disheveled heaps, a cloying scent of decay and degradation hanging in the air. A shiver of dread crawled up my spine. My blood ran cold. So the “eggs” Leo talked about meant… stuffing them into a private place… Celeste, who had followed us in, suddenly stiffened, her pupils constricting. She turned to Leo. “Wasn’t it about eating eggs?! What is this?” But Leo ignored her. He simply pushed me forward. “Cassie, Mr. Hayes used to be a dancer, his flexibility is sure to… impress you.” “Don’t you want to try it yourself? Challenge the limits?” As Leo’s words fell, I, already terrified, trembled violently and immediately looked to Celeste for help. At the very least, I was still her husband. She had loved me once. Though she’d put me through a lot for Leo, she wouldn’t really hand me over to a pervert, would she? But to my shock, the next second, Celeste walked to the table, poured a glass of wine, and pressed it into my hand. “Why don’t you offer Cassie a toast? Get this party started, Asher.” Get the party started? Was she serious? She… she actually agreed? In a daze, I saw Leo give me a strange, knowing smile. “Asher! Didn’t you hear Celeste?” As I watched Leo approach, unsure what to do, he suddenly kicked me in the knee. My body instantly lost balance, and the wine in my hand splashed across Cassie Vane’s face. Then I fell onto the shattered glass, my arm instantly gushing with several cuts. My eyes met the twisted, pale face of one of the men on the floor. Leo’s sharp accusation rang in my ears: “Asher, if you don’t want to toast, just say so! There’s no need to pretend to be crazy to provoke Cassie. Is that how Celeste’s husband acts? You’re just trying to embarrass Celeste!” Cassie’s expression froze for a moment, then she reacted, her eyes widening as she looked at me. “You… you’re the rumored husband of Celeste Kingston?” I was speechless, slumped on the floor, my body and heart aching almost to the point of suffocation. Cassie reached out to grab my arm, but Celeste immediately caught her wrist. Celeste’s gaze swept over my blood-soaked face. Her eyes suddenly turned dark and chilling as she looked at Cassie, gritting her teeth. “Get out!” Cassie was intimidated. She could only swallow her anger and slink away, muttering under her breath as she left. “Celeste Kingston! You’re crazy! If I’d known you were this lunatic’s husband, I wouldn’t have touched him!” As Cassie disappeared, I tried to get up, but a large hand clamped onto my arm again. “Asher, you’re happy you didn’t have to take the punishment, aren’t you? Did those two years on the island teach you nothing about obedience?” “All you had to do was offer a toast, and this whole thing would’ve been over. Why did you have to play crazy? You knew perfectly well that by asking you to toast, I wanted to end this! Are you blind?” As I stared at an enraged Celeste, my bloodshot eyes were my only answer. This time, I finally didn’t hold back. I retorted: “Celeste Kingston! I’m your husband! If you had just stated my identity, this whole thing could have been resolved just as easily!” My words were clear. It was *her*. It was her vanity, her desire to protect Leo at that moment, that made her keep my identity secret. My accusation hit a nerve. Celeste looked momentarily flustered. Seeing this, Leo tried to interject on her behalf. But Celeste, unusually, frowned and cut him off. “Enough! Shut up, go wait for me in the car.” Once his footsteps faded, she sighed. “I’m sorry, but I still need to explain. I genuinely didn’t know what the ‘Egg Challenge’ meant. If I had, I never would have agreed in the first place.” “As for Leo, I hope you can understand. After all, he just returned to the country and saw that I was married…” Celeste’s words trailed off, but I could still guess the rest. She wanted to say that Leo was upset about her marriage and deliberately made things difficult for me, so I should forgive him. Our eyes met. Celeste seemed to grasp the mockery in my gaze, and she sighed again. “Alright, I see you’re hurt. I’ll have the driver take you to the hospital. Leo’s not doing well, I need to check on him. We can discuss this more when I get back.” Without waiting for my reply, she added, “Even though you didn’t complete the task, I’ll allow you to count it as a forgiveness voucher.” With that, she turned and left. Watching her walk away, I touched my still bleeding forehead and laughed out loud. But I didn’t care anymore. Two more times. Once the debt of gratitude was paid, I would leave. From then on, I wouldn’t suffer her indignities anymore.

The driver took me home. It was late, and Celeste hadn’t returned. I didn’t ask. The next day, her assistant delivered her gifts: two commercial property deeds. She had specifically emphasized that one was compensation for forcing me to lick the cream, and the other was an apology for making me do the ‘Egg Challenge.’ I expressionlessly labeled the deeds 96 and 97, then casually tossed them into the safe. Next to me, Mrs. Davis, the servant, gave a knowing, doting smile. “Madam Kingston certainly spoils you, Mr. Hayes. These gifts are becoming more and more frequent.” I smiled without a word. She didn’t know these were just Celeste’s compensations each time she hurt me. Looking at the overflowing safe, I knew I would be leaving soon. But before I left, I only wanted to take one thing: a camera containing something I had to destroy. Celeste had a strong exploratory curiosity when it came to intimacy. In moments of passion, she would impulsively use the camera to record us. Before, those videos were just a part of our marital fun. But now, I didn’t want them to remain. If they were ever exposed, my life would be ruined. I searched every corner of the room, but I couldn’t find the camera. Just as I was about to search again, Mr. Harrison, my agent, called, his voice booming with rage. “Asher Hayes, have you lost your mind? Look online, private photos of you are everywhere! How dare you secretly accompany other wealthy women behind Celeste’s back? If you want to die, don’t drag the whole company down with you!” In an instant, my mind exploded. I only heard my agent’s last line. “You’d better give me an explanation for the online videos immediately! And Celeste’s fury… otherwise, we’ll haunt you even from the grave!” The call ended. I quickly opened my phone. The top trend was a series of my private videos. And the bold, explosive headline: **[International Supermodel Asher Hayes Sleeps His Way To The Top]**. Celeste was pixilated, but my face was clearly visible in the center, flushed with desire. Millions of netizens were online, spewing hateful comments, calling me a slut for sleeping with multiple wealthy women for resources, a man who could be used by anyone. My legs gave out, and I collapsed to the floor. But in the last moment of exhaustion, Celeste, who had suddenly appeared, firmly caught me in her arms. “Don’t look at those. It’s okay. I’ll handle it. Trust me!” Her comforting words had barely faded when she turned, her face cold, and roared at everyone in the room. “Who did this! Tell me! Who did this!” Seeing her raw, unbridled fury, my eyes instantly stung with tears. At the same time, Leo’s casual voice drifted into the room. “Celeste, you mean the videos? I uploaded them!” The hand wrapped around my waist tightened abruptly. Celeste and I simultaneously looked at Leo. “Don’t look at me like that! I just happened to see them and thought Asher’s body was too amazing to be seen only by you, Celeste. What a waste! So I took it upon myself to share them!” “After all, beautiful things are meant to be shared for everyone to enjoy, right?” Immediately, blood rushed to my head. I stood up to slap Leo, but Celeste firmly caught my hand. “Asher! That’s enough!” I was grief-stricken and furious. I shouted, “But he…” To my surprise, before I could finish, Celeste glanced at a triumphant Leo, then turned back to me, frowning. “I’ll have the trending topics taken down. This matter ends here. Don’t cause trouble for Leo, okay? You know, he’s just…” “No! Celeste, why should I let it go?! He’s ruined my reputation! Why should I let it go?!” “I’m going to sue him for defamation! He has to pay for this!” My bloodshot eyes met Celeste’s, refusing to back down even an inch. “Asher! You!” Celeste took a sharp breath, about to continue persuading me. But Leo tugged at Celeste’s sleeve, feigning sobs, his eyes red. “Celeste! Don’t say anymore. I know I was wrong. Just let Asher sue me. It’s my fault for being jealous, jealous that Asher married you. It’s all my fault! If only I had tried harder back then!” As he spoke, Leo’s eyes turned red, and he actually started to sob. “Asher, I truly know I was wrong. I’ll get on my knees and apologize to you. Please, don’t make things difficult for Celeste.” “Whatever makes you happy. I’ll go confess right now and clear your name! What’s the worst that can happen? I’ll be ruined too. But please, don’t let this ruin your relationship with Celeste.” Seeing Leo about to kneel to me, Celeste’s eyes turned icy again, and she said to me in a low voice: “Asher! Leo already knows he made a mistake. It’s best to be merciful when you can.” “Anyway, your reputation is already gone. Why don’t you just retire from the industry and live a life of leisure as a wealthy young man at home? Wouldn’t that be better?” I was shocked by her blindness, disbelieving that Celeste would still indulge him to this extent. I was about to say more, but the next second, I received a stinging slap across my face. My cheek burned. Her knuckles were red, her breathing ragged, and a never-before-seen violence surged in her eyes. She threw a disclaimer at me. “Be a good boy and sign this. Once the storm passes, I’ll help you make a comeback.” “But if you dare to call the police again, don’t even think about stepping out of this door!” “I won’t sign!” I gritted my teeth, staring fiercely at her. But no matter how I struggled, how I refused to sign, Celeste forcibly pressed my handprint onto the disclaimer. The moment I collapsed to the floor, exhausted. An unprecedented sense of powerlessness and piercing pain swept over my entire body, like a thousand needles pricking my heart. They left, their casual conversation like venomous insects burrowing into my ears: “Celeste, is Asher okay…?” “He’s fine. As long as he wants to make a comeback, he’ll listen to me. At worst…” “I’ll give him a forgiveness voucher. There are still dozens left anyway. He’ll be obedient.” No, there weren’t. Only one last one remained. Celeste Kingston, I won’t be your puppet anymore. I lay stunned on the floor for a long time before returning to my room and retrieving my journal. Though everyone said the modeling industry wasn’t much cleaner than entertainment, I truly loved my career. Standing on that runway, enveloped by the spotlight, that surge of confidence was where I found my worth. But now, it was utterly destroyed. Perhaps even fate was telling me it was time to leave, to let go. Tears streaming, I wrote about the day’s events in my journal, ending with “98.” Each time she hurt me, I would record it in my journal, reminding myself not to soften. But then, Celeste’s voice suddenly came from behind me. “What does 98 mean?”

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To repay Aunt Clara for her kindness in raising me, I stepped in for my cousin. I married Mira Sterling, the eldest daughter of the prominent Sterling family, who suffered from autism. For seven years, she was nothing but cold to me. I swallowed my pride, even tried to climb into her bed. But all I got in return was endless ridicule and scorn. Later, I successfully organized a painting exhibition for her. Yet, in front of me, she took another man’s hand. I knew then. My mission was complete. It was time to leave. To outsiders, my marriage into the Sterling family was an act of destiny, a stroke of good fortune. As one of the most renowned old-money families in the city, the Sterlings typically arranged strategic business marriages. And I? I was just a discarded orphan, living under someone else’s roof. I was only six when my parents died. More than sadness, I felt a gripping fear for the future. My uncles, caught in a bitter fight over the family inheritance, couldn’t stand the sight of me. They claimed I was cursed, a jinx, and none of them wanted the responsibility. So, they decided to send me to an orphanage. I didn’t want to go. I’d heard stories of a monster there that ate kids who didn’t sleep. Desperate, I found my father’s old phone and tried calling Aunt Clara. It was my first time reaching out to any of my father’s relatives. He’d been a scion of a wealthy family himself, but he’d cut ties with them all to marry my mother. Aunt Clara listened to my plea, then hung up without a word. I tried to console myself. My father had hurt her deeply; it was only natural she wouldn’t want to deal with me. But for some reason, the tears just wouldn’t stop flowing, no matter how much I wiped. The next morning, I woke up early, packed my backpack, and prepared to run away. I’d rather go hungry and sleep under a bridge than be eaten by some monster. But the moment I slipped out of my room, I bumped into a woman. I recognized her instantly—it was Aunt Clara. She looked so much like my father. Aunt Clara gently touched my head and asked if I’d had breakfast. I shook my head. She picked me up, carried me to her car, and drove me back to her home. My grandparents had passed away long ago. Aunt Clara frowned, looking at my thin, gaunt frame. “I have Liam and Lily to look after; I don’t have time for him. You brought this trouble home, you deal with it yourself,” my uncle snapped. “Don’t worry, he’s a good kid. Just give him food, and he’ll manage everything else on his own,” Aunt Clara replied, though a little hesitantly. To prove Aunt Clara right, I started teaching myself to eat, dress, go to school, and sleep independently. Beyond that, I proactively helped look after my younger cousin, Lily. My cousin Liam, who was only two months older than me, was a proud young master. Growing up, he never called me his younger brother. Instead, he treated me like a servant, barking orders. But I never got angry. Everyone has their fate. He certainly had reasons to be proud. For me, just growing up safely and healthily felt like a miracle. After high school, Aunt Clara wanted to send Liam and me to study in the UK. But Mira Sterling’s appearance completely derailed all our plans.

She came with Mrs. Sterling to propose marriage to Liam. My grandfather, when he was alive, had indeed arranged a childhood engagement with Mr. Sterling. It was a casual remark made over drinks, a jest, and I never imagined Mrs. Sterling would take it seriously. The atmosphere in the living room grew awkward. Mira, who had been silently staring at the floor, suddenly stood up and walked towards the backyard. Aunt Clara quickly told me to follow her, instructing me to look after her carefully. At first, I didn’t know she had autism. I just found it odd how rude this Miss Sterling was. It was late spring, early summer, and the roses in the garden were blooming in vibrant, delicate hues. Mira, as if by magic, pulled a canvas and easel from her backpack and began to paint with intense focus. I didn’t dare disturb her, so I stood silently behind her, just watching. It’s no exaggeration to say Mira was the most beautiful girl I had ever seen. She had stunning bone structure, flawless, porcelain skin. Her eyes, deep enough to make your heart skip a beat, exuded an aristocratic aura. Just as I was silently marveling at how some people just hit the genetic lottery, something dramatic happened. Mira seemed intensely dissatisfied with her painting. With a frustrated growl, she crumpled the canvas into a ball. I wanted to offer some comfort, but she suddenly reached out and squeezed the sharp thorns on a rose stem. Blood instantly welled up and trickled down her hand, but she didn’t seem to feel any pain. Instead, she tilted her head, looking thoughtful, as if observing something profound. “Let go! Please, let go!” I was frantic, like a cat on a hot tin roof. Miss Sterling was a distinguished guest of the Sterling family. If she got hurt under my watch, who knew how much trouble it would cause Aunt Clara. I yelled loudly, but she didn’t react at all. Left with no choice, I reached out to grab her arm. The moment my hand touched her sleeve, she suddenly flew into a rage, shoving me hard to the ground. I was terrified. Her expression was absolutely horrifying. I even thought she would hit me. But she didn’t. She just turned back and continued painting. Mrs. Sterling, hearing the commotion, rushed over. She was clearly used to such incidents and quickly led her daughter away. After they left, Liam burst into tears. “I don’t want to marry her! I want to go to the UK! If you dare force me, I’ll end it right here!” Aunt Clara’s heart ached, but beneath it was a profound sense of helplessness. The bulk of our family’s business relied on the Sterlings. Offending Mrs. Sterling would have unimaginable consequences. Aunt Clara tried to comfort her son while secretly glancing at me. “The family doesn’t have just one son, why are you always looking at Liam?!” my uncle questioned. Liam nodded furiously. “Exactly! Let Owen marry her! Mom and Dad have raised him for so many years; it can’t be for nothing.” “What nonsense are you talking about? Miss Sterling has autism! How could I possibly push Owen into such a difficult situation?!” Aunt Clara retorted, her voice strained. “So you’d rather your own son jump into that difficult situation…”

Aunt Clara and my uncle argued all night. I hid in my room, listening in silence, my decision already made. The next day, I told Aunt Clara that I was willing to take Liam’s place and marry into the Sterling family. “Liam is right. You and Uncle have been so good to me. Now it’s my turn to repay you.” Aunt Clara’s eyes welled up. She took my hand, wanting to say something, but ultimately, no words came out. Because Mira had special needs, the wedding was very simple. I thought her willingness to marry meant she was ready to share her life with me. But I was wrong. On our wedding night, the moment I stepped into the bridal room, her face hardened. “Get out!” “This is my room,” I protested. “You are not allowed to sleep here.” I tried to reason with her, to explain the meaning of marriage. But she wouldn’t listen. Instead, she tore down all the red wedding decorations plastered around the room. I was filled with helplessness and had no choice but to turn around and leave in shame. My mother-in-law, seeing the scene, sighed deeply and called me into her study. She told me that Mira wasn’t inherently bad, just reclusive and unwilling to interact with people. Since I had married her, I had to take on the responsibility of caring for my wife. She believed that if I was devoted enough, I could definitely help Mira open up her heart and accept me. I decided to try. Caring for someone with autism was both mentally and physically exhausting. Every day, I personally cooked her three meals, reminded her to take her medication on time, and accompanied her to her follow-up appointments. To understand her more thoroughly, I bought every book I could find on autism, immersing myself in them until the early hours of the morning. My efforts gradually yielded results. Mira slowly adapted to my presence, no longer resisting me as she had at first. I was allowed to ride in the same car as her, or sit at the same table for meals. Knowing I liked fruit, she would meticulously arrange a beautiful fruit platter for me with her own hands. I had low immunity and often caught colds or fevers, so she would bring me ginger tea and force me to drink it. Time passed quickly, and the seasons flowed by. We both grew accustomed to this routine. The only dissatisfied person was my mother-in-law. Every few days, she would call me for a talk, her sole purpose being to pressure me to have a baby. Forced into a corner, I had to be direct. Mira was completely unaware of intimate matters, and she wouldn’t even let me sleep in the same bed as her. My mother-in-law, exasperated, sent Mira to the hospital for a check-up. The doctor said there was nothing wrong with her physically; she just couldn’t overcome her psychological barriers and accept such intimacy. “It all comes back to you,” my mother-in-law fumed. “Can’t you find a way to make her fall in love with you?!” I was lost and bewildered. What was love? I didn’t even know myself, let alone Mira.

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