Author: Momo Chan

In the fifth year of our marriage, I helped my wife’s family business, which was on the verge of bankruptcy, go public. At the celebration party, my wife showed up with a pair of twins and her much-admired ex-boyfriend. She remarked, “Jack is a top student, and you should appreciate him for bringing in some fresh genes to improve the family line.” “You’ll still stay with my family, and as a token gesture, one of the kids can take your last name.” She wanted me to step down from my Vice President position. “The company’s success has nothing to do with you. Even a pig can fly when there’s a strong enough wind!” “Replace you with Jack, and he’ll do even better!” Everyone was mocking me, and my father-in-law and mother-in-law, who always claimed to value me, silently agreed with everything. Watching this shameless family, I sneered, “Fine, let the Anderson Group go bankrupt then!” “Declan, what kind of joke is this? Everything you have now was given to you by our family!” “If the Anderson Group goes bankrupt, you’ll have nothing left!” My wife Fiona didn’t believe a word I said and continued to mock me: “I even thought about letting you manage the company as a formality after you step down as VP.” “But now it seems someone as lowly as you, with ambitions beyond reach, is unworthy of managing our Anderson Group!” “I want a divorce. Get out of the Anderson Group!” I looked at Fiona’s disgusted, perfectly made-up face and gritted my teeth: “Fine, let’s divorce!” Fiona sneered and handed me a divorce agreement. The terms demanded that I leave with nothing! “When you married into our family, we signed an agreement. If we divorce, you can’t take a penny, and you have no right to refuse!” Instinctively, I looked at my in-laws. Fiona might not understand my contributions to the company since she doesn’t work, but they should know better. But my in-laws, who praised me at lunch, now avoided eye contact, their stance clear! Amid the guests’ laughter, I heard some whispers. “No matter how capable Declan is, he’s just a son-in-law living with them. If his wife says to dump him, she can dump him!” “He’s just brought in billions in revenue for the company, acting all superior in front of us. But at home, he’s still just a pushover for his wife.” I knew these people always looked down on me. Even though I poured my heart into Anderson Group and took it public in five years, expanding into overseas markets. I looked at my wife and the man behind her, and the last glimmer of hope in my heart extinguished. The person I once shared a bed with used me as a stepping stone, secretly plotting with that man to replace me entirely! “Alright!” I choked out. Before I finished speaking, Jack eagerly put his arm around Uma’s shoulder: “Oh dear Una, rest assured. With my help, the company will develop even faster!” Uma returned his embrace, her radiant smile dazzling, stinging my eyes! It was a smile she never showed me! Even though I married into her family and endured countless humiliations! Even though I turned myself into a vassal of the Anderson family! With those thoughts, I hesitated no more. I signed the divorce papers and left without looking back!

As soon as I left, the employees who never respected me started to gossip. “With that son-in-law gone, our days will be much better.” “Yeah, the Andersons are wealthy and kind. With Declan gone, company benefits will surely improve!” “I heard from a friend in the secretarial department that the Andersons wanted to increase employee benefits several times, but that son-in-law always vetoed it. After climbing from the bottom, he looked down on us!” Not far from them, I heard their words and couldn’t help but chuckle. Did they really think I could veto decisions made by the top leadership? In fact, during my years in charge, I constantly applied for benefits for the company, only to be blocked by my in-laws, who didn’t want to give any benefits, wishing employees would work for free. Now, hearing them praise my in-laws as kind-hearted, I almost laughed! If I hadn’t always spoken up for the employees, they wouldn’t be so eager to kick me out. To them, I was just a VP. Kicking me out was no big deal! I left the venue and called a number that had been in my phone for five years. “I’m done with Fiona.” The person on the other end chuckled coldly: “You should have ended it sooner! Since I found out Fiona was seeing other men, I’ve been telling you to leave. Now you’ve finally come to your senses! Since that’s the case, come home.” “For years, you stopped me from taking action against the Andersons, but I won’t hold back anymore.” I said, “Got it, sis. I’ll come home soon.” Fiona didn’t know I was actually from a wealthy family. Years ago, due to family changes, my sister had to exile me to protect me. Two years ago, she finally avenged us against the Li family, allowing us to live peacefully again. She reconnected and showed evidence of Fiona’s affairs. Unfortunately, I was still in love with Fiona then, thinking she hid it because she loved me. Why else would she do it, right? Despite knowing my unreliable in-laws, I started planning for any unforeseen changes, hoping to have leverage against the Andersons. But I never thought I’d need to use it. After losing hope, I agreed to go home. My sister immediately wanted to send someone to fetch me. I smiled and said, “No need. I should handle these things myself.” My sister agreed but couldn’t help but nag: “I’ve always told you to come home. I’m getting married, and the family business will be yours. There’s no need to marry into another family. Who needs a small, shabby company like that?” “For your next marriage, I’ll find you a suitable heiress.”

The next morning, Fiona was at the registry before I was for the first time. Throughout our seven years of dating and marriage, she always made me wait, whether for a small meal or a whole day of plans. She’d rather pay to replay a movie than arrive early. For her, it was a game to tame me. Making me wait at least half an hour each time showed I loved her. Seeing me, she stood there arrogantly, waiting for me to approach. I coldly looked at her and said, “If you don’t come over, there won’t be a divorce.” That hit a nerve, and only then did Fiona walk over. After getting the papers, she smugly said. “Look at you now, older than Jack and less capable.” “Did you know? Yesterday, Jack took over the company and immediately signed a big contract with Carter Corporation! You couldn’t close that deal after a month, but he did it right away. Haha, without you, my future is smooth sailing!” I coldly watched her, not bothering to respond. Carter Corporation’s contract was always picky, and they were rushing us lately. I didn’t take it because I suspected issues with the deal. I didn’t expect Jack to take it right away. He didn’t even consider if it would impact them. It seems this so-called top student might be overhyped. Anyone with a brain wouldn’t make such a blunder. I sneered, too lazy to deal with these fools, and turned to leave. As I stepped outside, I saw an eye-catching Rolls Royce my sister sent. The woman in the car took off her sunglasses, revealing a stunningly beautiful face. It was my sister’s longtime friend, Phoebe. Seeing me looking, Fiona sneered: “Don’t bother looking. No matter how much you look, she won’t be yours!” I ignored her and walked over. The woman got out, smiling as she tossed me the keys, saying: “Young Master, the car returns to its rightful owner.” I got in the car, and as I did, Fiona’s disdainful voice rang out: “You brought out a domestic limited edition car, Declan. I didn’t know you loved me this much. Too bad, do you think I can’t tell you’re putting on a show, trying to make me think you’re a super-rich second generation so I’d grovel and beg?” I found her amusing. Fiona, spoiled since childhood, always carried an unwarranted confidence. Seeing my silence, she added. “Don’t forget, the only one available for rent is with my friend. Do you believe I can call her now, and she’ll revoke your rental rights, ensuring you never rent a luxury car for show again?” I ignored her foolishness, hit the gas, and sped away. The phone rang, and Phoebe put it on speaker. I heard Fiona’s furious voice: “Without you, my life will get better and better! And you, you’ll always be the trash beneath my feet!” “If you’re smart, come back and apologize on your knees. I might consider giving you a way out. Otherwise, let’s see how long your little stash can keep you alive!” I disregarded that foolish woman, stepped on the gas, and quickly drove away. My phone rang, and Phoebe put it on speakerphone for me. I heard Fiona yelling, “Without you, my life will only get better! And you, you’ll always be beneath me!” “If you have any sense, come back and beg for forgiveness. I might consider giving you a way out. Otherwise, let’s see how long your little stash of money can keep you afloat!” I replied, “Fiona, after the divorce, you have no right to involve yourself with me, understand?” With that, I hung up and threw the phone out of the car, deciding to sever all ties with her completely. Phoebe taunted me, “You and your sister fought over this woman for years?” I was at a loss for words. “Wanna grab a bite at my place?” She replied, “Of course, after all, I am your future fiancée.” I paused, a bit taken aback. I hadn’t expected my sister to have plans for us. Phoebe just smiled and asked, “What, you don’t like me?” I thought, it’s not about liking or disliking. After all, no matter how promising the beginning, the end is always the same.

Back home, my sister looked at me for a long time, snorted, yet didn’t say anything. She directly arranged for me to join the company and handed over all her responsibilities to me, showing complete trust. It warmed my heart. In the Anderson Family for years, I never earned this kind of trust. They either criticized me for not being a top university graduate or complained that a project I handled lost them a million dollars. No matter how much I explained about relationships, long-term benefits, or concessions, they didn’t care. When their precious daughter brought home an unknown man, they immediately arranged for me to divorce her. I don’t know how much my in-laws despised me over the years. Even when they smiled at me, they were always thinking about how to get rid of me. Thinking back now, I was foolish. But not anymore. My sister placed Phoebe by my side, supposedly to help me take over the company. I looked at the woman in front of me, speechless. She stretched out her leg wrapped in black stockings and teasingly asked, “What, afraid of me?” Afraid of her? I snorted. But it led us to start working together on company matters. Soon, we were handling the first deal after I returned to the company. Just after the project was discussed, I got a call from Fiona. “Things haven’t been going well for you, right? Here’s a chance. If you lower your head and apologize to me, I’ll let you come back to work at the company. How about that?” I knew right away that Fiona must have run into some trouble with a project. Otherwise, she wouldn’t be so generous. I said, “No thanks.” I was about to hang up when she suddenly yelled, “Declan!” “I’m giving you a chance because we were married for years. Otherwise, believe it or not, I’ll blacklist you online, and you’ll never find a decent job again!” I laughed, more in disbelief than anger. “No need. Without you, I’m doing just fine.” I hung up. A minute later, she called back, unable to contain her frustration. “Do you know there’s a problem with the project you signed before? The company is expected to lose fifty million! If you don’t come back and fix it, I’ll sue you and make you pay!” 5 Hearing this, I couldn’t help but laugh. Her inexplicable confidence was both amusing and puzzling. “Go ahead then, do as you please. I’ve already left the company, so whatever happens there is no longer my concern. If you insist on blaming me, I have nothing to say.”

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Jasper’s childhood friend insisted on climbing a rugged mountain on her birthday, despite the bad weather. And I, three months pregnant, was the only one experienced enough to lead the climb. Ignoring my desperate pleas, he casually remarked, “Adeline, take Fiona to the summit for her birthday, and I’ll allow you to stay by my side.” I stood frozen, silent for a long time, then replied, “Okay.” Suddenly, a storm hit the mountain. I got drenched while saving Jasper, who slipped off a cliff, and was struck by falling rocks that broke my arm, causing severe bleeding and excruciating pain. Jasper, however, took the only survival blanket and wrapped it around Fiona, who remained dry and comfortable in the cave. “Fiona has never climbed a mountain and is weak. You have rescue experience, so don’t compete with her!” I lay in the mud, developing a high fever, clutching my painfully aching abdomen, my throat too hoarse to utter a word. Even so, Jasper didn’t spare me a glance. On the brink of death, I shakily took out a yellowing photo from my pocket. The person in it smiled gently, resembling Jasper by seventy percent. I softly pressed the photo to my cold lips and closed my eyes. Seven years ago, Asher died from exposure during a storm trying to save me on a wild mountain, leaving no remains behind. His dying wish was for me to take care of his only brother. Now, a life for a life, the debt is repaid, and it’s time for me to go.

Waking up in the hospital, I was wrapped in bandages, with nowhere that didn’t hurt. My intact hand instinctively moved to my abdomen, only to feel cold emptiness. —The child I had longed for was gone. Tears rolled down my cheeks, cutting into my heart like knives. Suddenly, my phone rang with Jasper’s special ringtone. I pushed through the pain to answer the call. “Hello…” “Why are you only answering now? How many times have I called you?” Jasper’s voice was extremely impatient, with faint sobbing in the background. “What nonsense have you been feeding my parents? Fiona just came and got scolded, and now she’s crying.” “Isn’t it just losing a child? You keep pulling these stunts that can’t be shown in public, do you really think I’m blind?” “I’ll give you ten minutes to call my parents and clear things up, or don’t blame me for being unsympathetic!” The next second, the call ended with a “snap,” not allowing me a word. How many times has this happened? I stared at the white ceiling, feeling a sting in my eyes, finding it absurd. Despite my diligent care and cautious efforts, no matter how much I gave, in Jasper’s eyes, it was all just a way to marry into the family, an unworthy trick. My child, bonded by blood, couldn’t even compare to a single tear from Fiona. The clock’s hands circled again and again. When the ninth lap was halfway through, I finally picked up the phone and dialed Jasper’s mother’s number. She answered almost immediately. “Adeline, you’re finally awake, your dad and I were worried sick. That brat Jasper…” “Aunt.” I softly interrupted her. “I don’t want to be with Jasper anymore.” The “mom” and “dad” I had called for seven years needed to change. Jasper’s mother understood my meaning, her voice choked with emotion. “Adeline, I know you’re heartbroken about losing the child, it’s our family’s fault.” “But you know Jasper, he’s a good kid, just blinded by that woman’s lies. Can you… can you give him another chance…” Jasper’s mother had a weak heart, prone to fainting from too much joy or sorrow. I was silent for a long time, then said: “If he can fold a thousand rainbow origami cranes for me, I’ll forgive him.” Jasper’s mother cried tears of joy. “Okay, okay, I’ll have him start folding right away, you’ll see them when you’re discharged.” She hung up hurriedly, just like countless times before, off to pester Jasper with chatter and reminders. But each time, Jasper never looked back. I reached into my pocket close to my heart, only to find it empty. The origami crane that had been with Asher’s photo had long been lost along the bumpy mountain path. The year after Asher died, Jasper folded a thousand origami cranes for me. Rainbow paper, page by page, densely filled with the intense affection of a young man. He didn’t know his brother once promised me a lifetime. Nor did he know that in the corner of my study, there was a half-filled jar of origami cranes folded by Asher himself. Both brothers used the same method to win over a girl. Looking at the origami cranes and his features resembling Asher’s, my heart skipped a beat, and I nodded. Later, when Fiona returned from abroad, she cried and made a fuss over those cranes. To appease her, Jasper burned them all. I rushed into the fire with red eyes, ignoring the scorching pain, and desperately saved the last crane. At that time, Jasper looked at my hands covered in blisters with disgust: “It’s just some origami cranes, you can get someone to fold more.” But he didn’t know that the company producing rainbow paper had closed years ago. Now, the last rainbow origami crane was lost in the stormy mire. I opened my contacts and found the mountain climbing team’s number. But before I could press dial, the hospital room door was kicked open. Jasper stormed in with bodyguards, throwing a stack of cheap colored paper at my face. “Adeline! How long are you going to keep this up!”

The thin paper’s sharp edges cut my cheek painfully. “Do you think you can pressure me into changing my mind by using my mom?” “This kind of shamelessly using my family to climb up to the Jasper family only makes me despise you more!” Jasper sneered, commanding the bodyguards to throw out all the decorations, furnishings, and fruit trays in the room, leaving only a barren, cold, white space. “From today on, you’re only allowed one meal a day. You can leave this room once you’ve folded a thousand origami cranes!” “In ten days, for Fiona’s birthday party, you’ll be tied up with the cranes and brought there!” My plastered right hand still throbbed with pain. My heart felt icy cold as I bit my lip hard, my voice hoarse. “…Why?” Jasper, why? What did I do wrong to make you treat me like this? Suppressed screams crashed around in my chest. I looked at Jasper, my eyes involuntarily turning red. Jasper met my reddened eyes, his breath hitched. He subconsciously reached out to me, almost like an embrace. The next second, he jerked his hand back, his face cold. “You know what you did!” “If it weren’t for Fiona’s kindness, still thinking of inviting you to the birthday party, I wouldn’t even bother looking at a woman as fickle as you!” My mind exploded. Confusion and grievance surged within me. I searched my memories for clues but found none. Emotions suppressed for so long suddenly surged and tore at me. I stubbornly looked at Jasper, my throat aching. “…What are you talking about?” Jasper’s lips pressed tightly together as he stared at me, then sneered. “With acting skills that good, it’s a pity you aren’t aiming for an Oscar.” “Do you really think you can hide it from me? On April 21st, five years ago, at 3 p.m., Fiona saw you on West Street…” I froze in place. April 21st, five years ago. —It was the sixth month of my relationship with Jasper and the third day since Fiona returned from abroad. I received a call. “When will you pick up the item Mr. Asher left at our club?” I couldn’t let go of Asher’s belongings, and I was afraid Jasper would overthink if he knew about our relationship, so I pretended it was a girls’ gathering and went alone. But when I arrived, I found that the club was a luxury club Asher would never have stepped into; the so-called belongings were a thick stack of white paper in an envelope. That club bore the name of the Aiden family. My heart sank bit by bit. I opened my mouth to explain: “Jasper, I…” A “ding” from the phone interrupted me. Jasper’s brows furrowed slightly, but relaxed as he saw the caller. It was Fiona. “Jasper, I’m worried Adeline might not have a nice dress for the birthday party, so I ordered her one. She shouldn’t mind, right—” “It’s a style that’s really popular among girls lately.” Out of the corner of my eye, I saw the screen and froze. —The dress in the photo was tight-fitting, with a neckline plunging nearly to the navel, barely covered by lace on the sides. The hem was so short it could hardly cover anything. I instinctively grabbed Jasper’s sleeve, my eyes pleading. Jasper paused, then glanced at me with a smirk, easily shaking off my hand: “She doesn’t mind, she loves it. She’ll definitely wear it.” My hand fell limply, and I closed my eyes, feeling dead inside. The call ended, and Jasper turned to leave, leaving two solidly built bodyguards behind. As the door was about to close, I called out to him. “Jasper.” He stopped in his tracks. “What if I told you… Fiona lied to you?” I croaked, my voice so faint it was almost inaudible. Jasper turned back, staring at me, his gaze icy and disdainful. “Fiona and I grew up together. She’s never lied to me, and I’ll always trust her unconditionally.” “Trying to sow discord between us? Do you think you’re worthy?” The door slammed shut with a loud bang, shattering my last hope. I picked up the phone again and dialed the mountain climbing team’s number. “Senior, is there still a position available in this year’s International Mountain Rescue Team?” “Yes, I’ve decided.”

The hospital didn’t dare defy Jasper’s orders. To make me fold origami cranes, they removed the cast they had just put on and replaced it with a simple splint. Jasper turned back, his gaze cold and filled with disdain. “I’ve known Fiona since we were kids. She’s never lied to me, and I’ll always trust her without question.” “Trying to come between us? Who do you think you are?” The door slammed shut with a loud bang, shattering my last hope. I picked up my phone again and dialed the number for the mountain climbing team. “Senior brother, is there still a spot on the International Mountain Rescue Team this year?” “Yes, I’ve made up my mind.” — The hospital, under Jasper’s orders, took off my cast and replaced it with a simple splint, all to make me fold origami cranes. My broken bone kept dislocating, and the pain was excruciating, with no relief in sight. Despite this, by the time the birthday party arrived, I had only managed to fold fewer than a hundred cranes. My fractured arm was numb with pain, I was so hungry I had lost weight, and my lips were pale and colorless. When Jasper found out, he simply dismissed me as “useless.” Even the bodyguards looked at me with sympathy. On the day of the birthday party, I couldn’t dress myself because my fracture hadn’t healed. After begging repeatedly, even kneeling at Jasper’s feet, sobbing and crying, he finally had two female bodyguards roughly squeeze me into a makeshift “gown.” They then tossed me, trembling and curled up in pain, into the back seat of the car. “Roll down the window, take down the partition. Since you like being watched so much, let them have a good look!” Jasper’s voice was icy. It was then I realized, as I was hunched over in pain, that the short dress I wore was indecently revealing. Desperately, I straightened my body, enduring the excruciating pain to pull down the hem of my dress, turning my head in embarrassment. He sneered and finally told the driver to close the window. Maintaining this stiff posture until we arrived at the venue, my forehead was already covered in sweat. Jasper remained indifferent. He opened the car door and glanced at me coldly. “Get out by yourself. Don’t make me do it.” I gritted my teeth, protecting my fractured arm as I struggled to get out of the car, only to stumble from hunger— In an instant, I instinctively leaned toward the car, avoiding Jasper’s outstretched hand. My arm hit the car door, and my face turned pale. Jasper’s face darkened. “Even learned how to play hard to get, did you? I underestimated you.” Before I could respond, he turned and walked into the hall, not giving me a chance to explain. But fortunately, I didn’t need to explain anymore. My phone showed a message from my senior brother from the rescue team, sent half an hour ago. [I’ve entered the country. The mentor has already arranged the rehabilitation hospital, I’m coming to get you.] [The rescue team is thrilled you’re joining. The welcome party is ready, just waiting for you to arrive.] I lowered my eyes and followed Jasper into the banquet hall. Countless strange and curious gazes pierced into me like needles, making me tense up. “Oh, isn’t this Jasper’s person? Dressed like this… tsk tsk.” The malicious voice was unmistakably from Fiona’s toxic friends. I pressed my lips together, not wanting to engage. “Hey, Adeline is here.” The star of the party, in a pure white gown, approached with a bright smile. Jasper stood behind her in a white suit, holding her dress. Like a wedding scene, how fitting. I curled my lips into a sarcastic smile. In a tone as calm as water: “Happy birthday, Fiona.” “And, congratulations on your union.” Fiona’s smile froze, then she tearfully clung to Jasper’s arm, large tears falling. “I’m sorry, Jasper. I shouldn’t have worn this dress to make Adeline misunderstand, I’ll go change right away…” “Change what? You’re not changing a thing!” Jasper pulled Fiona into his arms, his eyes locked on me with disdain. “Inviting you was more than enough.” “Following me around shamelessly and still wanting to dictate terms, don’t even think about it!” “Don’t even mention misunderstandings. Even if I got engaged to her now, you have no right to intervene!” The surrounding jeers drowned me, making me feel like a complete joke. Seven years of companionship, and all I got was “no right to intervene.” Pain, shame, embarrassment, despair… When emotions hit their peak, all that’s left is endless numbness. “So can I leave now?” I looked calmly at Jasper, waiting silently in his cold gaze for three seconds, then turned to leave. The next moment, a foot suddenly stuck out from the crowd. Caught off guard, I lost my balance and fell forward. Simultaneously, the champagne tower beside me suddenly collapsed! Ninety-nine tiers of glasses crashed down with a piercing “crash,” shattering into a sea of glass shards. The thin dress soaked with wine, the broken glass cutting through fabric and skin, the wounds mixed with alcohol, spreading a pool of crimson blood. Everyone, including Jasper, was stunned. “Adeline! You…” “Jasper, I’m scared…” He instinctively wanted to step forward but was held back by Fiona. I couldn’t bear it any longer, standing up amidst the glass shards, dragging my tattered gown as I staggered outside. A modest sedan was parked at the entrance, my senior brother rushing out of it towards me anxiously. Behind me was Jasper’s shouting voice. “Adeline! There are doctors here, come back and sit down!” “Adeline! Come back!” I clenched my trembling hands, palms covered in cuts, blood dripping. I didn’t look back, nor did I glance at Jasper again. Until I was admitted to the hospital, I couldn’t stop trembling. “Your fractured arm has been repeatedly injured. Even when it heals, you’ll only be able to do normal activities. Strenuous exercise is out of the question.”

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I was five months pregnant when I found out I was carrying a child that belonged to Nolan and his true love. Back then, my father had groomed two childhood friends as potential suitors for me. I bypassed the one he favored and chose Nolan, who seemed uninterested and unambitious. Then one day, as my pregnancy progressed, I overheard a conversation between Nolan and his beloved: “Adeline’s uterine wall is thin, and she risks a miscarriage at any time.” “Nolan, are you really willing to let her risk her life to carry our child?” Nolan remained unmoved. “I’ll compensate Adeline later, but right now, your uterine cancer is the priority.” “Even if it means risking Adeline’s health, I want you to have a child that’s ours.” “You’ve suffered enough. I don’t want you to have any regrets.” “Besides, Adeline only bears 80% of the risk; there’s a 20% chance everything will be fine. Just endure the next five months.” I wiped away my tears and dialed a number I hadn’t called in years. “If I say I regret it, would you still want me?” …

I stood outside the door, feeling like I’d been struck by lightning, cold to the bone. On the other side, a woman’s screams rang out, then gradually subsided. Phoebe’s voice was still laced with seduction: “You didn’t touch her, did you? You promised me, in these last days, you’re mine alone, only crazy for me!” Nolan let out a satisfied laugh. “Such a little temptress, who was just begging for mercy?” Before I could make sense of it, the door opened before me. Nolan’s hair was disheveled, and there was a faint lipstick mark on his collarbone. The man standing before me carried a distinct scent. Nausea hit me hard, my stomach churning with morning sickness. Nolan, still looking pleased, was visibly startled to see me. His expression turned awkward as he noticed my pale face. In a voice still husky with desire, he asked cautiously: “Adeline? How long have you been standing there?” His Adam’s apple bobbed—a sign of his unease. I dug my fingers into my palm, forcing a strained smile. “I was just about to knock.” My throat tightened, and I looked away to control my trembling. “Nolan, I came to ask where you put my calcium tablets. Are you meeting with a guest?” Now was not the time for confrontation. Nolan visibly relaxed, clearing his throat. Before he could answer, Phoebe peeked out from behind him, playfully sticking out her tongue: “Adeline, I have some here.” She pulled out a bottle of calcium tablets, giggling as she handed it to me. “Nolan knows I hate drinking milk, so he’s been stuffing my bag with these since we were kids.” She stomped her foot happily: “He’s so annoying! The house is full of them, and I can’t finish them.” Phoebe, the daughter of Nolan’s family maid, grew up with him. Seeing the familiar pink bottle, I was at a loss. Nolan had once leaned against my belly, proudly handing me this bottle. “I had these calcium tablets specially made for you. Be sure to take them.” He’d said they were precious, only one bottle a month. I chuckled to myself. Inside, I felt barren. What moved me was merely someone else’s leftover. Seeing I didn’t take it, Nolan looked displeased. “What’s your problem now? Who are you giving attitude to?” “Am I giving you too much leeway? You’re making things hard for Phoebe.” In public, Nolan was always accommodating to me, but I was never to upset Phoebe. I used to think it was childhood friendship. Now, I realize I was naive. Five years of marriage, and my husband had his heart elsewhere. Five months pregnant, I was just a vessel. The illusion of happiness from a minute ago was now ashes. I looked at the man before me, who was clearly biased, feeling only disappointment. I gently caressed my slightly swollen belly, speaking in a low voice: “Nolan, it really hurts.” My shoulders shook, tears rolling uncontrollably. “It hurts so much.” Maybe my face looked really bad. Nolan’s dissatisfaction faded, replaced by nervousness. He warmed his hands, cautiously placing them on my belly. I felt no warmth from his palm. A wave of sorrow engulfed me, leaving me sobbing and breathless. Nolan, helpless, helped me sit down, wiping my tears with concern. He squatted in front of me, looking up: “Is it hurting badly?” My tears fell like rain, and I choked out: “Nolan, the doctor said my eggs weren’t good. How did I get pregnant with IVF this time?” For a child of ours, I’d been to the hospital countless times, my hands covered in needle marks. Hormone pills were my meals, and my hair fell out in clumps. The large egg retrieval needle made my whole body tremble with pain. Now I’m told this hard-won embryo is my husband’s and someone else’s.

Even if he could just tell me the whole truth right now… Nolan’s expression stiffened, panic flashed in his eyes, but he quickly regained composure. “Don’t overthink it, maybe heaven saw our sincerity.” The faint hope was snuffed out. I lowered my gaze, hiding my turbulent emotions. The life inside me seemed to empathize, contracting suddenly. I placed a hand on my belly, feeling a stab of pain. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a red string on Phoebe’s hand. My gaze lingered; it was what I had prayed for at the Blue Mountain Temple, wishing for Nolan’s safety. Inside, woven with strands of my own hair. Sincerity? More like a joke. Neither of them noticed my change. Nolan handed me a glass of water, intending to feed me, a faint hint of guilt in his eyes. I shook my head, taking it and drinking it all in one go. Steeling myself, I took out my phone and messaged someone, scheduling a surgery. Nolan, feeling inexplicably uneasy, leaned over to look. “Adeline, who are you messaging?” His tone was displeased, tinged with jealousy. After confirming the surgery time, I turned off the screen emotionlessly. “Work stuff.” When Nolan asked, I didn’t miss the malice in Phoebe’s eyes. His unease grew, but Phoebe interrupted, clinging to his arm provocatively. “Nolan, you promised to take me for wedding photos today.” I ignored her. Compared to the child not being mine, nothing else mattered. Nolan licked his dry lips, awkwardly explaining. “Phoebe’s just childish, she wants to take some bridal photos and dragged me to be the groom for fun.” “Don’t mind it.” So the wedding photos were just a casual photo shoot. In five years of marriage with Nolan, we never even had wedding photos, just the one on our marriage certificate. My heart shattered, settling into silence. I gave a faint, indifferent smile, brushing away his hand on my belly. “If you promised her, go ahead.” Nolan sensed something was off, opened his mouth to explain more, but Phoebe tugged him away. He hurried out, reminding me: “Adeline, remember to take the calcium tablets Phoebe gave you. I’ll be back after the photos.” Once they left, I went straight to the hospital. Lying on the operating table, I felt a slight movement in my belly. Sorrow overwhelmed me instantly. I stared at the ceiling, letting tears soak into my hair. “Let’s begin.” Just as the anesthesia started to take effect, my phone rang. Nolan’s apologetic voice came through. “Adeline, the flowers are gone.” With just those words, I staggered off the operating table, rushing back. But I was too late; the blue and pink field of lily of the valley was already charred black. My legs gave out, and I collapsed to the ground. Those flowers were my labor of love. I had traveled the world to find the seeds, planting them one by one on my knees. Even with a big belly, I squatted to weed, nurturing them carefully. Lily of the valley takes five years to bloom, and after five years, this was the year they finally blossomed. Before I could even rejoice, they were destroyed in the fire. I dug through the ashes, my hands trembling, finding even the seeds burned soft. Phoebe shrieked. “How are these still alive!” Her words caught my attention, and I leapt up, cradling the surviving flowers with blackened leaves. Thankfully, there was still hope for a new beginning. Phoebe’s eyes glinted with malice, and I sensed danger. Before I could react, she pretended to trip, pouring boiling water over me. Instinctively, I shielded the flowers, the scalding water cascading down my shoulder. The burn made me flinch, my skin blistering and swelling instantly. The popped blisters clung to my clothes, the friction making the pain unbearable. I looked at the intact seeds and sighed in relief. Failing once, Phoebe changed her face, ruthlessly kicking me aside. “Adeline, what’s your problem? Trying to make Nolan blame me?” She then smashed the hot kettle onto the remaining flower seeds. Lily of the valley is delicate, and the surviving seedlings were all scalded. Nolan looked at me coldly, his words full of disdain. I jerked from the burn, and the skin blistered and reddened immediately. The broken blisters stuck to my clothes, and the friction was so painful that I shuddered uncontrollably. I looked at the intact seeds below and let out a sigh of relief. But my relief was short-lived as Phoebe’s expression shifted dramatically. She kicked me aside without hesitation. “Adeline, what’s wrong with you? Are you trying to make Nolan blame me on purpose?” she snapped, then threw the kettle onto the flower seeds. The delicate lily of the valley seedlings were all withered by the scalding water. Nolan looked at me with disdain in his eyes. “Adeline, you’re about to become a mother, yet you still play these games.” “Phoebe is younger than you, and she should be calling you sister-in-law. Can’t you be a bit more accommodating?” Never have I seen a woman call someone sister-in-law while trying to steal her husband. My heart felt like it had turned to ice.

All I could see was a field of charred lily of the valley. My heart felt like it was being squeezed by a giant hand, the pain making it hard to breathe. Tears fell uncontrollably, leaving trails in the sooty mess. My research, my family, my life’s work was destroyed like trash. What did I gain in the end? I helplessly held the lifeless lilies, feeling lost. Yet I couldn’t help but think of Nolan from six years ago. He stood excitedly in the front row, catching the bouquet at his best friend’s wedding. He rushed toward me, his face alight with excitement, kneeling before me with tears of sincerity in his eyes: “Adeline, will you marry me? I’ll treat you well for a lifetime.” I was moved by his sincerity and, against my better judgment, took the bouquet. The passionate youth was something that could never be regained. The vibrant lilies from the bouquet years ago had gradually turned into the charred land before me. There’s no going back. Never going back. I covered my tears and cried softly. Phoebe was still adding fuel to the fire, arms crossed and watching like a spectator: “Adeline, I’m really sorry, I didn’t mean to. I just wanted to set up an outdoor barbecue for Nolan. Who knew these flowers would catch fire so easily?” “Nolan, I’m really too clumsy.” Nolan didn’t see Phoebe’s malice, even gently coaxing her. My anger flared up, and I used all my strength to slap Phoebe hard. She was stunned, covering her face and looking at me in shock. Nolan’s eyes widened; he hadn’t expected the usually obedient and tolerant me to dare to confront Phoebe in front of him. He shoved me hard, burning with anger. “Phoebe already said it wasn’t on purpose. Why are you being unreasonable and even daring to hit her?” The force of his push made me fall to the ground, small stones embedding into my palm. He stood in front of another woman, completely forgetting who his wife was. The extreme pain turned into numbness. I no longer hoped for his return, looking at him with exhausted eyes. Nolan’s eyes flickered at my expression, a huge panic almost unstoppable inside him. But he stood there silently for a few seconds, hoarsely offering a truce: “Adeline, let it go, okay? We can plant flowers again later.” After speaking, he bent down to pull me up, but I gently shook off his hand. I shook my head, smiling bitterly. “No more. They can’t be replanted.” Just like my brave heart that once rushed towards him, it will never come back. Nolan’s Adam’s apple moved, thinking he had come up with a compromise. “I’ll have Phoebe drink three glasses of milk as an apology, okay? She’s always hated drinking milk; it’s the biggest punishment for her.” Is this a reward or a punishment? I looked at the man before me, feeling like I was seeing him for the first time. Phoebe pouted and whined. “Nolan, I don’t want to drink milk.” Nolan turned to negotiate with me. “Adeline, how about two glasses?” The scene before me was so absurd it was laughable. I couldn’t hold back and laughed like a madwoman, tears in my eyes. Pain hit me belatedly from where my back hit the stone, followed by a severe ache in my stomach. Warm liquid gushed between my legs. My face turned pale, the smile frozen. I forgot about the child’s existence, overwhelmed by panic. I clutched my stomach nervously, calling out in distress, looking at the man pleadingly. “Nolan, my child! The child!” Nolan instinctively moved to help me, but Phoebe called out and stopped him. Phoebe let out a scream, clutching her calf as she sat on the ground, tears welling up in her eyes. “Brother Nolan, I was just bitten by a snake! I’m so scared. Will I die?” Following her pointing finger, I saw a small green snake, no bigger than a thumb. It bites but is non-venomous and not deadly. Nolan gritted his teeth, glanced at me, and decisively turned to pick up Phoebe. She clung to his collar, her lips pale, deliberately acting like a victim. “Adeline, stop being childish. The doctor said a five-month fetus is stable. It’s not that fragile.” But my body wasn’t suited for pregnancy from the start. My condition is different from most. In the intense pain, I couldn’t speak, biting my lip until it bled. Cold sweat dripped down, and tears blurred my vision. The hesitation in Nolan’s eyes disappeared as he held Phoebe and looked at me coldly. “Adeline, you’ll do anything to bully Phoebe. I’ll deal with you later!” With that, he quickly got into the prepared car and left. The pain in my abdomen drained all my strength, and large beads of sweat formed on my forehead. Blood pooled beneath me. At this critical moment, my mind went blank. I only remembered the child I had carried for five months and hoped for years. Driven by a powerful will to survive, I shakily dialed a number. I felt the life inside me slipping away. The sensation of two hearts beating in unison was gone. My consciousness was blurry, but tears flowed uncontrollably. “Nolan, it really hurts,” I murmured, feeling the grip on my hand tighten suddenly. Then I fell into darkness. In my dream, I saw a petite girl in a purple dress I had embroidered. She waved at me from a field of lilies, her smile radiant. I moved beside her, crouched down, and inexplicably started to cry. A deep sorrow engulfed me. The little girl reached out, wiped my tears, kissed my face softly, and spoke gently, “Mom, don’t be sad.” Tears streamed down my face as I choked, wanting to embrace her small body, only to wake up suddenly, my arms empty. I clutched my now flat abdomen and finally broke down in tears. The man stood silently beside me for a long time, his eyes red with pain. I stayed in the hospital for a week. Nolan called countless times but never visited. On the day I was discharged, the man peeled open a candy and put it in my mouth. “Adeline, it’s all over. It won’t be bitter anymore.” The sweet grapefruit flavor exploded in my mouth, and I smiled. Sunlight filtered through my fingers, shining on my face, and I finally felt reborn.

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At the dining table, I dropped my chopsticks. When I bent down to pick them up, I saw my sister’s foot stretched between my boyfriend’s legs. She remarked, “Your current boyfriend is quite impressive. I’m satisfied.” Later, she got involved with my boyfriend and said to me, “What can I do, Celeste Parker? It seems no man around you can resist me.” I laughed and turned to embrace the man she had loved for five years. My sister broke up with my ex-boyfriend. “We’ve been dating for a month; isn’t breaking up normal?” Genevieve Parker said casually, as if she were merely deciding what to have for lunch. “But when you sent me those intimate photos, you said it was true love and hoped I’d step aside for you.” I sipped my coffee and glanced at Asher Bennett, who was still waiting outside in the heat, and sighed. Asher was the heartthrob of our department. Not only was he handsome, but he also excelled academically, and his family seemed quite affluent. His cool demeanor made him the ultimate campus idol. Many girls at our school were captivated by him, myself included. Though Asher was called my ex-boyfriend, technically he wasn’t. I was just a placeholder to fend off other girls, and our relationship was publicly acknowledged only a day before Genevieve took him away. That night, Genevieve sent me several explicit photos. “I was interested in him because you were, but your choice in men is really poor. Your first boyfriend, and you picked this loser.” Genevieve’s tone was full of regret. I knew Genevieve wasn’t truly interested in Asher; she just wanted to take everything I liked. Even if she eventually discarded it, she wouldn’t let me have it. Since childhood, she was jealous that my presence took away our parents’ love. So, anything I liked, she would find a way to take it. Toys I liked as a child, pretty dresses, and later, my boyfriends. “My taste wasn’t great before, but this time, I’ve found someone truly exceptional.” My eyes sparkled with admiration. Genevieve looked intrigued. “Really? I don’t quite believe this ‘high quality’ you’re talking about. When are you going to introduce him?” “He’ll come to pick me up soon.” As I spoke, I saw Milo Everett’s figure at the entrance of the café. I smiled, “There, that’s my boyfriend.” He wore a black T-shirt, tall and handsome, with a silver necklace around his neck. One hand was in his pocket, exuding a relaxed, carefree attitude. Compared to Asher, this kind of man seemed hard to control. I was enamored with such men, and Genevieve was too. She loved making all kinds of men fall for her, especially taking my men. I saw Genevieve’s eyes light up as she sized Milo up with a knowing smirk. I knew that expression too well. She had found her target. The more nonchalant a man is, the more it ignites a woman’s desire to conquer. Seeing Milo’s eyes fixed solely on me since he entered, Genevieve became even more excited. I frowned in displeasure. The reason I dared to bring Milo to Genevieve was that I trusted him. I’ve known him for two years, and he’s never been the type to be swayed by beauty. In terms of emotions, he’s a very devoted man. But looking at Genevieve’s alluring eyes, I felt unsure. Genevieve knew how to handle men, like Asher, who was so cool at school but lost himself with her. I held Milo’s hand, and he smiled at me warmly. I was confident I wouldn’t misjudge him.

Before leaving, Genevieve’s eyes were fixed on Milo. I watched Milo’s expression; he acted as if Genevieve wasn’t even there, fully focused on me. After leaving the café, I accompanied Milo to the playground. He had plans to play basketball with friends, and I held his jacket, sitting on the sidelines. Milo had a unique masculine charm, distinct from Asher’s. He was spirited and carefree like the sun in June, delightful to be around. Being with Milo was something I had deliberately planned. On the first day of school, I noticed him. He had seen a guy take advantage of a girl in the crowd and pinned him to the ground, beating him up. I still remember him in a black tank top, a silver necklace around his neck, a jacket draped over one shoulder, walking past me indifferently. My first impression of him was that he was carefree, with a roguish charm that deeply attracted me. Genevieve taught me that such men are harder to pursue. Persistence doesn’t work; it’s all about the method. Throughout freshman year, I didn’t make aggressive moves but tried to make myself familiar to him. In sophomore year, I began messaging him more, occasionally asking him out. To understand his likes, I did a lot of research. Gradually, our chats increased, almost becoming a daily good morning and good night, full of flirtation, just a step away from a relationship. Agreeing to be Asher’s fake girlfriend as a shield broke through that barrier. That night, Milo, eyes red, pinned me against a wall, asking why I was with another man. I knew my strategy of playing hard to get worked. After Genevieve swiped Asher away, I naturally got together with Milo. He was an excellent boyfriend. Over the past month, he perfected the boyfriend role. Even my roommates said they never expected someone like Milo to love so deeply. I trusted Milo’s feelings for me, but I didn’t know if he could resist Genevieve’s seductive and mature allure. Cheers erupted around us as Milo scored another basket. After the final shot, he walked toward me, the sun casting a golden glow around his smile. Milo ruffled my hair and asked, “Bored from waiting? I’ll take you out for something tasty.” I looked up and smiled brightly at him. “Sure.” He held my hand as we walked along the track’s edge, warm light enveloping us. I could feel the gentle pressure of his hand holding mine. I wished this moment could last forever.

As I anticipated, Genevieve eventually made her move. Recently, Genevieve’s visits to our school increased noticeably. Milo always picked me up at the dorm, and we had breakfast, attended classes, and went on dates together. But several times, I found Genevieve waiting with Milo downstairs. From a distance, Genevieve smiled brightly, and though Milo seemed indifferent, he’d occasionally respond to her. Genevieve acted like she belonged, inserting herself into our world. One day, Genevieve invited me to dinner, specifically asking me to bring Milo. I knew her intentions, but I still brought Milo along. When we arrived, Genevieve was already waiting in a private room. She seemed dressed to impress, with exquisite makeup. Her wavy hair cascaded over her shoulders, and she wore a tight red mini-skirt. Her long, white legs were eye-catching, and the low neckline revealed her ample cleavage. Such obvious intentions? I brought Milo with a hidden agenda. I wanted to see if he could withstand Genevieve’s allure. “Milo, I heard you’re great at basketball. Can you teach me sometime?” Genevieve’s voice was soft and sweet. Milo replied indifferently, “If you really want to learn, you can hire a coach.” Genevieve wasn’t pleased with Milo’s attitude but seemed even more intrigued. “Why bother with a coach? You’re my sister’s boyfriend; I can just ask you.” I stirred my soup and heard Milo’s cold voice beside me. “You know I’m your sister’s boyfriend, so let’s avoid any misunderstandings.” Watching Genevieve’s face pale slightly, I almost burst out laughing. Genevieve rarely fails with men. This was probably her second time, the first being five years ago. Perhaps I was too obvious in my amusement, as Genevieve rolled her eyes at me. I let go of my spoon and said, “Oops, I dropped my chopsticks.” As I bent down to pick them up, they didn’t have time to react, and I saw Genevieve’s foot hadn’t been retracted. Yes, just now, without my knowledge, Genevieve had extended her foot towards Milo, even between his legs… Milo didn’t refuse. Was it because he didn’t have time, or did he not want to? I was feeling a bit overwhelmed. We finished dinner with mixed emotions. Milo Everett stepped out to take a call, and I waited for her at the door. Genevieve Parker came out after paying the bill and looked at me.

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Nolan experienced his tenth memory lapse, which unfortunately coincided with the night before our wedding. Just as I had done the previous nine times, I climbed to the thirty-third floor, attempting to call back his spirit. To my dismay, I overheard him talking to his friend, Griffin. It turned out the memory loss was a ruse, and he was planning to bolt from the wedding. Griffin asked, “Aren’t you worried Lydia will be hurt?” Nolan lazily replied after exhaling smoke, “She won’t know.” “Even if she finds out, she won’t leave me.” “Do you think she could make it without me?” “Do you think everyone can be as independent as Aurelia?” Aurelia. Nolan’s girlfriend during his ninth supposed memory loss. They still kept in touch. I felt tears as I touched my face. Instead of taking the elevator down, I walked from the thirty-third floor to the first and back up again. I did this repeatedly through the night until 3 a.m., when the makeup artist bombarded my phone with calls and dragged me back. She informed Nolan that I had a fever and couldn’t walk. Ten minutes later, Griffin messaged me. “Nolan’s memory problem isn’t solved yet.” “But I’ll ensure he picks you up on time.” I sat in a daze as the makeup artist worked on me, clutching my phone. From 5 a.m. to 7 a.m., 8 a.m., and then 9 a.m. The bridesmaids I had hired started to grow impatient, whispering among themselves: “The groom isn’t coming, is he?” “You mean… a runaway groom?” “Impossible.” One bridesmaid firmly refuted. “I was personally chosen by Mr. Nolan. I’ve seen how he cares for Fiona.” “I’d rather believe it’s… an accident on the way.” Perhaps it was an accident on the way. When Nolan first lost his memory, I thought the same. It was my 23rd birthday, and Nolan had just received his first paycheck after graduating college. We planned to have a buffet. I waited at the restaurant entrance, but he never showed up. I called Nolan, but he didn’t answer. He didn’t reply to my messages either. I called all his friends and searched the entire city. I finally found him at an unknown bar. He held a glass, looking at me with a confused expression, and asked, “Who are you?” I could only cry. The hospital couldn’t determine why Nolan lost his memory. A fortune teller claimed it was a lost soul. A close relative needed to climb high and call his name all night; there was a good chance he’d recover. Despite my fear of heights, I climbed to the thirty-third floor, closed my eyes, and called out with trembling legs: “Nolan.” “Come home.” I shouted all night, cried all night. My eyes swelled like walnuts. I couldn’t see clearly and accidentally fell from the thirty-third floor. There was a large platform on the thirty-second floor, and I fell onto it, breaking a leg. Luckily, Nolan remembered me. Later, he lost his memory a second, third, fourth… ninth time. I gained experience and was forced to overcome my fear of heights. But the duration of Nolan’s memory loss grew longer each time. During the ninth time, he even met a new girl. They had a fresh romance. That girl was Aurelia. I was treated as the other woman and got doused in red paint. Aurelia threatened, “If you keep bothering my boyfriend, next time it’ll be worse.” She also posted my embarrassing photos online everywhere. I was cyberbullied, overwhelmed with insults. I didn’t give up. I showed Nolan our wedding photos. “We’re almost getting married.” He only said—dream girl. “Even daring to Photoshop wedding photos.” Aurelia slapped me several times, cut off my long hair, took photos of me naked, and almost posted them online. Nolan’s memory returned just in time. He took me home, held me while I was terrified, and said, “Let’s get married.” I closed my eyes, avoiding the mirror showing my messy hedgehog hair. I wiped away my tears and nodded. It was the fifth time I forgave him. A tear was about to fall but vanished from my eye. I stood up. My overworked legs, after a brief rest, felt even more swollen and sore. I almost lost my balance. I gritted my teeth and persevered. I took off my veil, pulled off my wig, revealing my messy short hair. I told the bridesmaids, “Your task is over early.” For the tenth time, I wasn’t going to forgive Nolan. During Nolan’s fourth memory loss, I knew he was lying. I couldn’t find a reason. I repeatedly told myself, “Just forgive him one last time.” I convinced myself five times. Until last night, when I heard Nolan and Griffin’s conversation. “She’s not as good as Aurelia.” “She’s too boring.” “Only knows how to crochet.” “Tease her.” Until this morning, I waited and waited, but he never appeared. I staggered to find my suitcase and took out two crocheted dolls. They were of an eight-year-old Nolan and me. When I was six, my dad was a long-haul trucker and rarely came home. My mom, unable to bear the loneliness, cheated, and my dad caught her in the act. I watched them fall from a high building, both dying. After a year in an orphanage, Nolan’s parents adopted me. Another year later, Nolan’s parents went mountain climbing with friends. They died from hypothermia in an accident. On the day of the funeral, people surrounded me, looking down. They said, “Jinx.” “Killed your biological parents, and now your adoptive parents.” Hundreds of fingers poked my forehead. I stood there helplessly. Nolan’s eyes were red, silent, staring at me. I instinctively wanted to say sorry. But he took my hand. We passed a photo booth and took a picture together. He stared at the photo for a long time and said, “I’ll take care of you from now on.” That ‘from now on’ lasted until I was twenty-seven. I cut up the dolls. Packed all the crochet needles and yarn into my suitcase. As I was leaving, the bridesmaid who defended Nolan stopped me. “Maybe you should give Mr. Nolan more time.” “He really loves you.” I ignored her, but she persistently blocked me. “I’ve seen the wedding venue Mr. Nolan arranged for you, romantic and luxurious.” “He even custom-made a wedding dress for you.” “Even we bridesmaids were personally chosen by him.” “He said you’re slow to warm up, shy, and reserved, and asked us to take good care of you.” “He’s done so much for you, how could he not want you?” I was silent for a long time. Finally, I raised my eyes and curiously asked, “Why is it that he doesn’t want me?” “And not that I don’t want him?” I took off the custom-made traditional wedding dress. Handed it to the talkative bridesmaid. Left the place and hailed a cab. The driver kept asking where I was going. “Anywhere.” I leaned back against the seat with my eyes closed. My phone kept vibrating. The affluent lady, who frequently ordered crochet dolls from me, transferred money at 4 a.m. At 9 a.m., she inexplicably sent an apology. Followed by: “If you want a change of scenery, come to Bay City.” She sent her home’s door lock code, assuring me she’s not a bad person and I shouldn’t worry about safety. “While you’re here, I won’t return home.” “There are no cameras at home.” “Neighbors can vouch that I’m a good person.” “Or… I can show you my ID.” The sticky and bitter wind blew against my face. I replied, “No need.” Three and a half hours later, I arrived in Bay City. The fatigue was blown away by the fresh air of Bay City. I took two deep breaths and suddenly heard someone calling me from behind. “Miss Fiona, Mr. Asher sent me to pick you up.” The year Nolan got into college, I became a weaver, using crochet to support his studies. At first, I was inexperienced. The dolls with crooked noses and eyes lay on the stall, ignored. In despair, I gave a doll to a boy who was bullied. Later, as my skills improved, more customers came. I ran a stall and opened an online shop. I met the affluent lady through the online shop and added each other as friends. Her profile picture was a silly doll, never used voice messages, and her texts were always polite. She regularly placed orders from me. I assumed she was a woman. Only today did I realize the affluent lady was actually a wealthy young man. The driver wouldn’t say why. Until he parked in front of a villa. I entered the password, and as the door opened, I was captivated by rows of handmade dolls. They were neatly displayed behind glass, warm and delicate. On the coffee table in the middle of the living room was an envelope. Inside were tickets to the hottest male star Asher’s concert. Asher, too familiar. Most customers who ordered dolls wanted his fan merchandise. I crocheted so many, so well, they became more lifelike, and business boomed. Putting down the tickets, I tidied up and sent a message of gratitude to Mr. Asher. Halfway through typing, I received a call from Nolan. The same old routine. He ‘forgot’ again, and his phone notes showed I was his future wife. “So, may I ask, are you really my fiancée?” The voice on the other end was cautious, curious. Early this morning, even three hours ago, I had been hoping for such a call. But now, all anticipation had been crushed into nothing by the high pressure and airflow. I couldn’t help but laugh and said, “You got the wrong person.” Nolan and I grew up relying on each other, without the love of a father or mother. As I matured and learned more about love and how I wanted to be loved, I gave everything I could to Nolan.

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Married for five years, my husband and I were always affectionate, until late one night when I received a call from the police. They informed me that Ethan had been involved in a collision with a large truck. When I rushed to the hospital, I was horrified to find Ethan and a young, beautiful woman both pierced through their abdomens by the same steel rod. Witnessing this scene, I instantly realized the nature of their relationship. To take revenge and ensure Ethan faced consequences, I hurriedly signed the form to waive the surgery. The sudden ringing of my phone in the dead of night startled me awake. Groggily, I answered without even asking who it was, only to hear a serious voice on the line. “Hello, this is the local police. Are you Nora?” Although I didn’t know what had happened, the mention of the police made me respond immediately. Once I confirmed my identity, the officer continued, “Your husband, Ethan, encountered an issue while driving and collided with a large truck. His condition is critical, and as a family member, you should get to the hospital as soon as possible.” Hearing this, I sat bolt upright in bed. What baffled me was that Ethan had supposedly left town on business three days ago, so how could he have had a car accident here in the middle of the night? But given the urgency, I couldn’t dwell on it. I quickly hung up and dashed out of the house as fast as I could. The normally short twenty-minute drive felt like an eternity as anxiety nearly brought me to tears.

When I finally reached the hospital, I couldn’t even wait for the car to come to a full stop. I flung open the door and stumbled inside. Gasping for breath in the emergency room, the first sight I saw was Ethan lying on a hospital bed, covered in blood with tubes everywhere. Seeing him like that broke my heart, and I began to cry. Just as I was about to check on Ethan and reassure him that I was there for him, I suddenly noticed a young woman lying behind him. What puzzled me further was that both Ethan and this woman were impaled by the same steel rod in their abdomens, lying in a strange position on the same bed. I couldn’t comprehend why Ethan would be with this woman in the middle of the night or how they both ended up in this accident. As I stood there, confused and unsure how to face the situation, the police officer pulled me aside. After confirming my identity, he explained the whole story: Ethan had violated traffic laws by kissing a woman named Adeline in the car and neglected to watch the traffic lights, leading to the collision with the truck and this tragic outcome. The officer showed me the surveillance footage, and as I watched Ethan and Adeline kissing, my heart felt as though it shattered into pieces.

Ethan and I were college sweethearts. Since our marriage, we were always seen as a model couple, and he was the ideal husband in my eyes. In our five-year marriage, I gave Ethan my utmost trust, never imagining he would betray me and our marriage. “Nora, will you marry me and become my wife? I promise to always be faithful to you…” Remembering Ethan’s proposal now seemed so hypocritical and laughable. After we got our marriage certificate, Ethan wanted to start a business for a better life and more choices for the future. However, his family was too poor to help, and without startup capital, he had to put the plan on hold. At that time, I was the only one who believed in his talent and wanted to help him achieve his dream. So, I swallowed my pride and asked my parents for money to gather the initial startup funds. But starting a business wasn’t as easy as Ethan had imagined. Due to his alcohol allergy, he couldn’t drink with clients, which became the biggest challenge in expanding the business. Later, I couldn’t bear to see him give up halfway, so I decisively quit my promising job to accompany him, meeting clients and negotiating deals. I’ll never forget that during one crucial business meeting, I had to drink high-proof liquor repeatedly to secure the project. Even before celebrating the signed contract, I suddenly felt excruciating pain in my abdomen and passed out.

When I woke up in the hospital, a nurse told me I was pregnant for a month but had a miscarriage due to excessive drinking, leaving my body weak. Hearing this, I touched my empty abdomen in a daze. I never expected this to happen to me, and before I could even feel the presence of this little life, it was gone because of my carelessness. In my grief and despair, it was Ethan who held my hand tightly and said, “Nora, this is all my fault. Blame me if you must. We will have another child in the future. Please don’t let this drag you down; everyone is waiting for you to recover!” At that time, with Ethan’s comfort and my parents’ patience, I gradually emerged from the gloom and returned to working hard. But deep down, I never forgot the child who didn’t get a chance to see the world. That business deal earned us our first fortune, and Ethan’s company officially got on track. Once everything stabilized and no longer needed my help, I retreated to the background. To better care for Ethan and support his career without worries, I became a full-time housewife. I thought Ethan appreciated my efforts and wouldn’t fail me, but in just a few short years, he forgot his vows and sought a mistress behind my back.

When I thought about how I felt sorry for Ethan’s busy work life and made nourishing soups for him, while he used business trips as an excuse to see his mistress, I couldn’t help but feel hatred. Just as I wanted to question Ethan about his conscience, the doctor interrupted me, “Are you one of the patients’ family members? Since they’re both impaled by the same steel rod, we can’t operate on both simultaneously. We need to separate them quickly, so you need to decide who to save first.” Hearing the doctor’s words, before I could respond, Ethan’s painful wails reached my ears. “Honey, I beg you, save me first. I know I was wrong, but I promise I won’t see Adeline again. I’ll make it up to you for all the harm I’ve caused.” Listening to Ethan’s firm promises, I couldn’t help but laugh mockingly. If I hadn’t believed his nonsense, I wouldn’t have been fooled for so long. How could I believe him now? Before I could mock Ethan, Adeline, covered in blood beside him, suddenly shouted. “Ethan, you heartless man! You told me Nora was just a barren hen, and that thanks to me risking my life, you have a son. But now, to save yourself, you say such things? Don’t you want us or our son anymore?”

Adeline’s words froze me in place. I never expected Ethan to say such things behind my back and secretly have a child. After becoming a housewife, I considered having a child, but despite all my preparations, I never got pregnant. With no other options, I went to the hospital for a check-up. That’s when I found out the previous miscarriage had caused irreversible damage to my body, and I might never become a mother. Hearing the doctor’s words, I left the hospital in a daze, barely remembering how I got home. I only remember when I opened the door and looked in the mirror, my face was covered in tears. When I tearfully told Ethan about the results, he was momentarily stunned before replying immediately. Later, with no other options left, I went to the hospital for a check-up. It was only then that I found out the previous miscarriage had caused irreversible damage to my body, meaning I might never become a mother. Listening to the doctor, I was in such a daze that I don’t even remember leaving the hospital. I only recall that when I opened my front door and looked in the mirror, my face was already streaked with tears. When I tearfully shared the test results with Ethan, he was momentarily stunned but quickly responded, “Honey, children don’t define us. Even if we never have kids, what’s there to fear? As long as we love each other and walk through life hand in hand, that’s the happiness I want most.” Back then, hearing Ethan’s response, I couldn’t help but hold him tightly, feeling grateful I hadn’t chosen the wrong person. I silently vowed to take even better care of him in the future. Little did I know that all of this was just a dream Ethan had woven for me. While I placed all my trust in him and was lost in this false happiness, he already had a child of his own. Thinking about how foolishly I’d been played all these years, every sacrifice I made for Ethan felt like a slap to my face. At that moment, the doctor’s urgent voice rang in my ears again, “Family member, the situation is extremely critical now. Please decide quickly who we should save first.” Looking at Ethan’s eyes, filled with the desire to live, and recalling what he had done to me, I painfully closed my eyes and finally made my decision. I understood better than anyone that once trust is broken, it can never be restored. The moment Ethan chose to betray me, our marriage had reached its end, with no chance of reconciliation. I could only thank the heavens for allowing me to discover the truth now. I couldn’t bear to imagine my fate if I waited until that illegitimate child grew up while I aged. Would Ethan kick me out? Would Adeline humiliate me? Or would I die realizing I was just a pawn in someone else’s game? With these thoughts, I clenched my fists in anger. Everyone must pay the price for their choices, and now it was time for Ethan to face the consequences. With that thought, I didn’t hesitate any longer. After casting him a cold glance, I decisively turned to the doctor and made my final choice. “Doctor, I’m Ethan’s wife. I’ve decided to stop his resuscitation. As for that woman, I don’t know her.” Hearing this, Ethan began to scream like a madman, “Nora, you can’t do this! You can’t just give up on my life. I want to live, I want to live!” “Nora, I’m begging you, please, have mercy and save me. I don’t want to die now…” 8 Facing Ethan’s desperate pleas, I felt indifferent. All I could think was, if he had foreseen this outcome, why didn’t he act differently back then?

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Jasper is a renowned philanthropist in his circle, and I am his assertive wife. He has a cherished muse, and I went to great lengths to make him marry me. During a covert mission, his muse disappeared. In his quest for vengeance, he broke my legs, locked me in a dungeon filled with water, and tormented me relentlessly. “I don’t want you dead; I want you to live a life worse than death, repenting for your sins day and night.” I pleaded with him, insisting I didn’t kill her, but he refused to listen. He whipped me, the barbs tearing into my flesh. Until, as an agent constantly protecting him, I was tortured to death. Then, his fragile muse appeared, pointing a gun at him and revealing her true identity as an assassin, leaving him in a state of madness over his regrets. The 99th lash broke during the beating, blood slowly dripped down my scarred legs, echoing in the dim, damp dungeon. My legs had long lost feeling, hanging unnaturally, my hands bound with rough ropes, shoulders dislocated. I couldn’t remember how many days had passed. Jasper’s bodyguard couldn’t bear it, “Boss, if you keep this up, the madam will die.” Jasper’s face was full of hatred, “I can’t let her die so easily. I want her to kneel at Lydia’s grave every day, offering incense in repentance.” “A lifetime of torment is the greatest punishment for her.” The rope suddenly loosened, and I fell heavily to the ground, my broken legs twisting grotesquely. My face scraped against the rough ground, burning with pain. But compared to the tearing in my heart, this physical pain was insignificant. Jasper grabbed my hair, dragging me to a pristine tombstone. It was a blank monument he had erected for Lydia. He gripped my neck, slamming my head onto the ground. “Who do you think you are? Just because I married you, you think you’re Mrs. White?” “Aren’t you an agent? Agents are supposed to be tough. Why are you crying? Stand up!” He roared, “I protected Lydia for five years, never raising my voice, afraid of her slightest grievance.” “How dare you harm her, who gave you the courage?” “Bang, bang, bang…” A series of crashes, I felt my head was about to shatter, ears buzzing. I was the best agent, bleed but don’t cry, I couldn’t cry, even if my teeth shattered, I had to swallow them. But why does my heart hurt so much? Jasper, how could you bear to treat me like this? Why do you treat me like this? I wanted to argue, but only weak whimpers came from my throat. Jasper’s sharply defined face was inches away, but those eyes no longer held any of the past tenderness. He stepped on my already deformed hand, grinding it, the sound of bones breaking was clear. I lay on the ground, curling up and whimpering. Seeing me in such a humiliating state, Jasper finally smiled with satisfaction, “Call the doctor, I’ll give you the best treatment, with the best medicine.” “Tomorrow… I’ll come see you again.” He was like a demon from hell, giving me despair again and again. Watching Jasper’s departing figure, my thoughts drifted back to the past. Jasper’s business spanned the globe—finance, medicine, weapons, technology—he was involved in almost every industry, and his public identity was a philanthropist. Many assassination organizations wanted him dead to take over his business empire, and I was sent to protect him. To avoid suspicion from enemies, I forced him to marry me, so I could be by his side 24/7. But I made a fatal mistake, I fell in love with him. Over the years, I’ve used my life countless times to shield him from assassinations, but it was all in vain! He didn’t listen to my explanation, directly accusing me of a baseless crime. To him, I was just an unimportant tool. I couldn’t help but smile bitterly. Since that’s the case, I should leave.

Jasper arranged the best medical team to treat me. He personally took the ointment handed by the doctor, gently applying it to my wounds. He fed me ginseng soup spoon by spoon, but his words were so cold, “Seeing you so obedient, I won’t punish you today.” I knew he didn’t want me dead; he wanted to torment me every day to vent his anger for his beloved. I struggled to speak, “When I arrived that day, Lydia was already gone. I didn’t kill her, I really didn’t…” Before I finished, Jasper’s gaze turned icy, he smashed the soup bowl in his hand, “You don’t deserve to mention her name!” “I’ve already investigated, it was you who pushed her into the basement during the explosion, stop denying it.” He turned and ordered the guards, “Increase the intensity of the electric shocks.” Then he walked out the door without looking back. My heart grew numb, maybe soaked in icy water for too long, I couldn’t feel the pain anymore. He never believed me, not even a sliver of trust. The electric shocks were too strong, my consciousness began to blur. Before I fainted, I heard Jasper and the bodyguard talking outside. “Boss, if you only love Lydia, why did you agree to marry Adeline?” “With your strength, no matter what means Adeline used, she couldn’t force you to marry her.” Jasper was silent for a moment, his voice carried a gentleness I’d never heard before, “You don’t understand what it feels like to truly love someone.” “Lydia is a pure good girl, unlike me, I live on the edge of a knife, I couldn’t bear her to suffer if enemies involved her.” The bodyguard suddenly understood, “So you married Adeline, all the enemies would target Adeline, in reality protecting Miss Lydia.” Jasper softly responded, “Adeline is different…” “Even facing all kinds of torture, she can easily cope with the training she received since childhood.” The bodyguard hesitated, “What if she can’t withstand it?” Jasper’s voice was cold, “Then it’s her fate.” I felt all the blood in my body freeze, my heart turned cold. So, I was just a shield Jasper used to protect Lydia. No wonder, many times when I was kidnapped, the kidnappers directly targeted Mrs. White. It was all part of his plan. The feeling of being deceived and used was more painful than any torture . I don’t know how long it was before the sound of high heels echoed outside the door. A familiar figure appeared at the door, Lydia! “You’re not dead!” Lydia chuckled, “Surprised? I’m alive and well, fooled both you and Jasper.” “Men, you can’t get emotionally involved. Tsk tsk, look at you, tormented like this for a man, you disgrace the agents.” Her slender fingers brushed over the blank monument, “He’s such a clever person, yet I played him like a fiddle, it’s really amusing.” “Jasper is rich, devoted, handsome, and in bed… top-notch, it feels great to play with.” Lydia was not the weak woman needing protection from Jasper. She used his love for her. And I became a pawn in her scheme. “Who exactly are you?” Lydia’s lips curled into a meaningful smile. “I’m only after wealth, not lives.” “I want him to watch his financial empire, built over years, crumble.” “You better protect your husband, many people want him dead.” She made a “shush” gesture with her fingers, “And… Jasper actually loves you, he just doesn’t realize it yet. I can’t wait to see his face when he realizes it after you’ve been tortured to death…” “We’ll meet again.” Lydia quickly disappeared into the night. When Jasper forced me to bow and repent again, the blank monument suddenly broke. Lydia had tampered with the monument! Jasper was furious, kicking and hitting me, “Your repentance is insincere!” I looked at his angry face, feeling only deep sorrow. This man, blinded by love, had become someone else’s pawn without realizing it. I closed my eyes, letting tears silently fall. This was the last time I cried for Jasper, also for my foolish self. Goodbye, Jasper. I sent a message to the organization using a secret communicator, “I should return to the agency.” “I don’t want to protect him anymore.”

The next day, Jasper entered the dungeon, his expression both gentle and mad. I hung in the water dungeon, with any slight movement, my fingers felt excruciating pain. He carefully untied me, gently washed my body. He patiently dressed me in a dress, combed my hair, even applied a light lipstick. He finally spoke, “Last night I dreamed of Lydia.” “She said she’s lonely down there, I plan to send you to accompany her.” My blood froze instantly, he was going to bury me with Lydia. His tone was so gentle, as if coaxing a child, “Don’t be afraid, it won’t hurt, it will be over soon.” I wanted to escape, but dragging my severely injured body, I couldn’t run. Like a puppet, I numbly let him manipulate me. The car stopped before a desolate cemetery, the surroundings were deathly silent. Jasper carried me, walking through a long gravel path, arriving at a grave with a blank monument. He pointed at the monument, his eyes filled with pathological madness, “Look, this is Lydia’s home.” My blood ran cold. He wanted me to be buried with Lydia. His voice was gentle, as if coaxing a child, “Don’t be afraid, it won’t hurt, and it will be over soon.” I wanted to escape, but with my severely injured body, I couldn’t run away. I was like a puppet, numbly letting him control me. The car stopped in front of a quiet cemetery, surrounded by a deathly silence. Jasper held me, walking through a long gravel path to a tomb with an unmarked headstone. He pointed at the headstone, his eyes filled with a pathological madness, “Look, this is Lydia’s home.” “Don’t be angry, Lydia. I didn’t put your name on it to keep anyone from disturbing your sweet dreams.” He then pointed to a freshly dug grave next to the unmarked stone and said to me, “Adeline, this is your new home.” I wanted to laugh at myself, but I couldn’t. I wanted to cry, but no tears came. This was the real Jasper, a madman smiling while burying me alive. He placed me into the cold, damp grave. At that moment, my heart was ashen. Just as the grave was about to be sealed, an offering on a nearby gravestone was knocked over, making a noise. Jasper turned around sharply, his gaze fierce. The moment he saw who it was, his body froze. His face went from blank, to surprised, to ecstatic, finally turning into a near-mad longing. He trembled as he spoke, “Lydia… is it you?” Jasper, like a child who had lost his mind, stumbled toward her and hugged her tightly, almost crushing her into his body. The once-calculating Jasper was now crying uncontrollably. “Lydia, you’re alive… Is this a dream?” “I missed you so much, why didn’t you come to find me?” Realizing she had been discovered, Lydia decided to play along. “I thought I would never see you again, I was so scared.” “I barely escaped, and all I could think about was finding you. But I was afraid you’d moved on, so I just watched from afar. Brother still cares about me…” Jasper looked pained, “Silly girl, you’re my most precious person. My heart could burst with pain.” Watching their intimate display, I realized how unnecessary I was. Since she was discovered, Lydia continued her act. She collapsed weakly into Jasper’s arms, sobbing softly. “I thought I’d never see you again. I was so scared.” “I barely escaped, and all I could think about was finding you. But I was afraid you’d moved on, so I just watched from afar.” “Brother still cares about me, that’s wonderful.” Jasper cupped her face, his eyes full of pity, “Silly girl, how could I not care about you? My heart could burst with pain.” I had never seen him so out of control. This man, who was so heartless and ruthless to me, dropped all his defenses in front of Lydia. It seemed Jasper had forgotten my existence, eagerly entwined with Lydia. Completely ignoring me, still in the cold grave. The sounds of their intimacy intertwined. At that moment, I felt utterly pathetic and ridiculous. Suddenly, Lydia smirked at me. She deliberately nudged the grave lid with her foot, and with a dull thud, the lid closed. Darkness swallowed me instantly, and the air in the grave became increasingly thin. Breathing became harder and harder. I gasped for air, desperately pounding on the walls, leaving bloody scratches on the wood. But there was no response. My brain started hallucinating, and my consciousness blurred… Just when I was about to give up, there was a frantic knocking from above the grave. Fresh air rushed into my lungs. Jasper’s bodyguards nervously pulled me out of the grave. The cemetery was already devoid of Jasper and Lydia’s presence. I was completely disheartened, with no lingering feelings for Jasper. But when I got home, Jasper suddenly began to take care of me meticulously, as if making up for something or hiding something. I knew he still needed me as a “wife” to face danger and protect Lydia. It didn’t matter anymore; I no longer cared about anything here. Anyway, I would leave first thing in the morning. Given my special status, I didn’t need divorce papers or anything like that. When I decided to leave, I had my ways to disappear completely from Jasper’s world, making sure he could never find me. But before I could leave, an unexpected situation arose. The organization sent me an order: “Attention, the Black Scorpion Assassination Group has appeared. Head to the charity site immediately to protect Jasper.” I intended to leave quietly, but it seemed I had to meet Jasper again. At the charity gala, I silently stood in a corner. It was the best observation spot. Years of training had made my senses unusually sharp, and nothing escaped my eyes in the crowd. On stage, Jasper looked at Lydia with deep affection. She cooperated with a happy expression, “I once thought silently protecting you was enough. Now I want the whole world to know I love you, only you.” “Tonight, I’m transferring all my financial assets to your name, so you can always be a carefree princess.” “Anything you want, I’ll give you!” The audience burst into applause, and flashes went off one after another. “So this is Jasper’s true love? They really are a perfect match, a match made in heaven.” “He’s got the looks and talent, and she’s so much gentler than that shrew Adeline. Even I, as a woman, want to cherish her…” Listening to the mockery directed at me, I was long past caring. At that moment, Jasper’s gaze swept the crowd, unintentionally meeting mine in the corner. His once gentle eyes flashed with impatience and disgust. Maybe he thought I was there to pester him. After all, I used to claim my territory at similar events, but he always let me. What I thought was favoritism was a complete deception. Suddenly, an unusual signal interference appeared inside the venue, and the lights went out, plunging the scene into chaos.

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Being pregnant with the child of the amnesiac Cooper Corporation CEO, he regained his memory. I’m not particularly beautiful and my background isn’t noteworthy. When he regained consciousness, he dismissed me with disdain: “Stop bothering me. I won’t marry a nanny’s daughter.” He assumed I would cling to him desperately. Little did he know, I was unfazed and gladly accepted the 60 million in compensation. Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, here I come! Later, the once-invincible billionaire CEO chased me across the globe to win me back. With reddened eyes, he awkwardly said, “The child misses you.” I pretended not to hear: “I’m sorry, I’m unmarried and childless.” The name Jasper is well-known in New York City’s high society. It’s said that once, when his secretary wore something slightly revealing, he fired her on the spot. Since then, no company dared to hire her, fearing backlash. Everyone working for the Cooper Family fears this young master. He’s unpredictable, and the smallest mistake could cost you your job. But none of this has anything to do with me. I’m just the nanny’s daughter for Jasper’s family. I only saw him once during a family gathering at the Cooper Family’s house. His every move exuded the cold indifference of someone in power. He doesn’t take anyone or anything seriously. If nothing unexpected happens, I would never have any interaction with him in this lifetime. That winter, whether by accident or someone’s intent, Jasper got into a car accident on his way to a negotiation. His injuries were severe, and it took several rounds of rescue in the ICU to save his life. When he woke up, everyone was stunned. Jasper had lost his memory, and his intelligence and memory were like those of a three-year-old child. Previously, he had a cleanliness obsession and avoided women. Now, he was pestering the nanny and cleaning lady at home to play hide and seek with him. The family doctor did another brain check for him, sighing and shaking his head. “The young master’s brain still has blood clots, which are pressing on his nerves. Surgery is very risky; now he can only rest and see how he recovers later.” Jasper’s mother wanted to take him abroad for treatment. But now was a critical moment in the power struggle within the Cooper Family. Yes, the Cooper Family has more than one son besides Jasper. If it were revealed now that Jasper is amnesiac and foolish, he would naturally be out of this power struggle. However, there’s no secret that doesn’t find its way out. Rumors always find a way to reach others’ ears. Listening to my mom talk about these things, I felt a brief pang of sympathy for this billionaire CEO. But only for a moment. His amnesia has nothing to do with me; these are just battles among wealthy families. The world won’t stop turning, and I’ll continue living as usual. Mom has taken care of Mrs. Cooper for a long time and has watched Jasper grow up. Now that Jasper needs meticulous care, Mom is grateful to the Cooper Family and feels a bit sorry for this child she watched grow up. So she took on this responsibility. I help my mom with some chores at the Cooper Family on weekends after school. “Ah, I really don’t understand how a perfectly fine person could become like this.” I had just picked up the messy toys on the floor. “Bang bang—” Then two rubber-like things hit my head. “Where did this little witch come from! Surrender now!” I looked at Jasper, who was waving a toy gun and dancing around, and was momentarily speechless. “It seems he really is foolish now.” I took the toy gun from his hand and carefully wiped the dirt off his face with a cloth. After Jasper became foolish, the nannies who used to fear him were more daring. Naturally, the care wasn’t very attentive. He seemed a bit dazed, standing there holding his clothes and letting me wipe his face clean. With his long eyelashes fluttering and his lips pursed, he seemed particularly obedient. I accidentally met his eyes and was momentarily stunned. “Chenny’s hands are dirty too.” He pouted and reached out his hand to me, acting pitifully. I tugged at the corner of my mouth; yes, he really is like a three-year-old child. In the evening, I was planning to go home after tidying up, but Mrs. Cooper suddenly called me to her room. “Auntie.” Mrs. Cooper had maintained herself well, her face carrying a smile. I felt something was off in my heart. Seeing me come in, she stood up and circled around me, looking satisfied. “Not bad, you have a good figure; having a baby shouldn’t be a problem.” Hearing her words, I was confused. Perhaps seeing my reaction, Mrs. Cooper realized her words were inappropriate. She immediately changed her demeanor, holding my hand with tears in her eyes: “Quinn, you see Jasper like this now. It’s hard to say if he will recover. I have an unreasonable request.” “If you can have a child for the Cooper Family within a year, I’ll give you 50 million. After it’s done, you can go wherever you want. The child’s matter won’t delay you.” I was shocked; so this was her plan. “Auntie, I don’t think I can…” “Quinn, don’t decide so quickly. After all, your mom has been with me for so long, and I chose you because I’m assured.” “If 50 million isn’t enough, I’ll add another 10 million, and your mom can continue working at the Cooper Family. This money is enough for you and your mom to live worry-free for several lifetimes.” Mrs. Cooper spoke with a smile, leisurely wiping her nails. “Okay.” The threat in Mrs. Cooper’s words was too obvious. Mom has worked hard to raise me as a single parent. We are just ordinary people; if I refuse, the Cooper Family will just crush us. Besides, it’s 60 million. It can give Mom a better life. Driven by some inexplicable force, I agreed. Mrs. Cooper nodded in satisfaction upon hearing my response.

Under Mrs. Cooper’s arrangement, I changed into a high-end nightgown I’d never worn before and was politely invited into Jasper’s room. Mrs. Cooper even arranged someone to watch outside the door. I looked at Jasper lying in bed, hesitating. It’s too late to regret now. The room’s lighting was dim, and there was a pleasant-smelling incense burning, creating an extremely ambiguous atmosphere. I didn’t dare to look directly at him. Even now, though foolish, he still looked very good. “Quinn, I’m so hot, I feel uncomfortable all over.” Jasper kicked off the blanket in a huff, looking restless. I quickly stepped forward, pulling the blanket back over him. “Young master, don’t be naughty; you’ll catch a cold.” Jasper curled up in the blanket, only revealing a pair of eyes blinking at me. Somehow, I also started to feel hot. It’s the incense! Mrs. Cooper must have drugged it. The people outside, not hearing any movement inside, knocked on the door three times. Jasper struggled to pull his hand out from the blanket and touched my forehead. “Quinn, are you hot too? You’re sweating!” I steeled myself, grabbed his hand and kissed it. The next day, the person Mrs. Cooper sent saw the marks on me and nodded in satisfaction. I was exhausted and sore all over. Jasper seemed to think it was a fun game, clinging to me all night, I don’t know how many times we tangled. Though Jasper is foolish now, his physique and stamina are truly remarkable. Mrs. Cooper let me go home for a bit. Today was Mom’s day off. I usually make sure to have dinner ready and wait for her to come home so we can eat together. After I managed to brush things off with Mom, I returned to the Cooper Family and saw Jasper’s cousin, Finn. “Cousin, this is the latest toy, it’s really fun.” After saying that, he mockingly threw the toy to the floor. Hearing “fun,” Jasper eagerly crawled under the table to pick it up. Finn grinned and kicked the toy further away. As soon as I walked in, I saw Jasper crawling on the floor like a puppy, trying to fetch it. “Young master!” Seeing Jasper, who used to be decisive and ruthless, now in such a state, I inexplicably felt a twinge in my nose. My appearance made both of them stop what they were doing. Jasper beamed, “Quinn! Cousin got me a new toy!” I rushed over and picked up the toy from the floor. “Young master, remember, you are the master of this house. You can order the nanny to do anything; you don’t need to do it yourself.” Finn looked displeased: “Who are you? Why are you meddling in my bonding time with my cousin?” “I’m Jasper’s assistant.” He laughed out loud after hearing that. “Yeah, he does need a personal assistant; he probably can’t even dress himself now.” After saying that, he glanced at Jasper sitting on the floor, looking smug. “Cousin, I’ll come to see you again once I’m done with the company’s matters.” After he left, Jasper’s eyes turned red, and he tugged at my pant leg, looking pitiful. “Quinn, it hurts.” His knee seemed to have been bruised earlier, with a bit of skin scraped off. I resignedly rummaged through the medicine cabinet, carefully applying ointment to his wound. “Quinn, you’re so nice! You’re just like Mom, the best to Chenny!” Hearing this, my hand paused. “Young master, no one loves you more than Mrs. Cooper, and in this world, no one will be good to you for no reason.” “A gentle knife always has ulterior motives.”

Mrs. Cooper learned that I stood up for Jasper, and she was very grateful. With the current fierce competition for inheritance and Jasper’s uncertain recovery, she couldn’t help but frown. Seeing her looking so gloomy, I told her some mischievous stories from my childhood to cheer her up. She smiled slightly, then looked at me with regret: “What a pity.” Jasper always wanted to sneak out to play, but Mrs. Cooper wouldn’t allow it. I followed him all the way and saw him go into the playground in the community, constantly clamoring to play on the swings. Those nannies, who usually tremble at the mention of his name, were all snickering with their heads down. 3 Mrs. Cooper was grateful when she found out I stood up for Jasper. But with the ongoing fierce fight over the family inheritance and Jasper’s uncertain recovery, she couldn’t help but worry. Seeing her so downcast, I shared some playful stories from my childhood to lift her spirits. She smiled slightly but soon looked at me with regret, saying, “What a pity.” Jasper always wanted to sneak out and play, but Mrs. Cooper never allowed it. I followed him to the community playground, where he insisted on playing on the swings. The nannies, who usually trembled at the mention of his name, were all hiding their laughter. I held the swing steady for him to get on. “If the young master wants to play, then play! Quinn will watch over you!” Jasper happily sat on the swing and gestured for me to come closer with a playful air. Curious, I leaned in, and he took a candy from his pocket and placed it in my hand. “Quinn, I hope your days are always as sweet as this candy.” His words made my heart skip a beat, and I instinctively looked away. Feeling a bit awkward, I pushed him on the swing. “Quinn, about that night, can we do it again someday?” My hands froze, and I glanced around to ensure we were alone, then sighed in relief. Blushing, I gently patted his head. “Young master, that’s our little secret. You mustn’t speak of it or tell anyone else.” Seeing my serious expression, he nodded solemnly. “I understand, Quinn! It’s our secret! Jasper is great at keeping secrets!” I couldn’t help but laugh at his earnestness. Time passed quickly, and three months flew by. Jasper’s condition hadn’t improved; it worsened. Initially, he just wanted to play with the kids in the neighboring community. Eventually, he ran away and disappeared. Remembering my words, he declared himself the master of the house when the nanny tried to stop him. No one could hold him back. When Mrs. Cooper found out, she was furious and no longer gentle. She had me held down, kneeling in Jasper’s room. In the eyes of these wealthy people, we never had any dignity. “You can get up when Jasper returns.” It wasn’t until midnight that Jasper was found. He was discovered in a small room like a dog cage. The neighboring community was also wealthy, home to rich kids. They tricked Jasper into going with them, locked him up, and taunted him as an idiot. Jasper’s car accident had injured his brain, and the story of him wetting his pants while playing with kids spread throughout the villa area. After Jasper came back, Mrs. Cooper still didn’t let me get up. First, because I failed to watch over Jasper, letting him run off. Second, she wanted me to recognize my place and do my duties. I knelt for nearly ten hours, my legs numb, and finally collapsed to the ground. Jasper seemed to realize he was at fault. He looked at me kneeling in his room, bewildered. He went to plead with Mrs. Cooper to let me up, but she just gave me a cold look and turned away. Seeing he couldn’t persuade her, Jasper strode over and knelt beside me. “I’m sorry, Quinn, I shouldn’t have run off. It’s all my fault, and if Mom wants to punish you, then I’ll kneel with you!” Mrs. Cooper couldn’t bear seeing Jasper insist on kneeling beside me. “Get up, take good care of the young master, no next time.” Mrs. Cooper looked down at me, and I bowed my head. “Yes, ma’am.” After Mrs. Cooper left, I breathed a sigh of relief. Just as I was about to stand up, ignoring the pain in my knees, I staggered and almost fell again. Suddenly, Jasper caught me and lifted me up. He gently placed me on his bed, rolling up my pant leg as I had done for him to apply medicine. My knee was swollen and red. “Quinn… I’m sorry.” His eyes turned red, and he gently massaged my wound with his fingertips. “It’s Jasper’s fault. Quinn can punish me however you want; I’ll do whatever you say.” Seeing his guilty and helpless expression, my heart softened. “Will the young master listen to everything Quinn says?” He nodded vigorously. “Yes, yes! Jasper always keeps his word!” “Then I punish you to eat well, sleep well, and take good care of yourself from now on!” Jasper paused, then suddenly hugged me. His head buried in my neck, he murmured, “Quinn, Jasper wants to grow up quickly.” I gently patted his head, “Why does the young master suddenly want to grow up?” “Mom said only when Jasper grows up can he truly be the master of the house.” “Then I can protect Quinn and never let anyone bully you again!” My nose tingled; the young master was indeed naive. Why protect a nanny’s daughter? 4 The news of Jasper’s injury, which left him with the intelligence of a three-year-old, reached other members of the Cooper Family. Several illegitimate children began to stir. Mrs. Cooper was overwhelmed dealing with the strategies that came one after another and the company’s affairs. Despite her previous efforts to seek out renowned doctors, there was no progress in healing Jasper’s mind. Overwhelmed with anger and stress, she also fell ill and was hospitalized. Jasper hadn’t seen Mrs. Cooper all day and was getting anxious. “Quinn, have you seen Mom?” “Ma’am is still working overtime at the company! Be a good boy and go to sleep. You’ll see her when you wake up tomorrow!” Before being hospitalized, Mrs. Cooper had specifically instructed not to let Jasper know about her hospitalization. I had no choice but to coax him to sleep. Jasper pressed his lips together, staring at me expressionlessly. “Quinn, you’re lying to me.” “Mom didn’t come back yesterday, and last night Mrs. Wang packed up Mom’s clothes and took them away. Mom’s favorite pearl earrings are still on the table. Quinn, tell me the truth!” Though he had the mind of a three-year-old, he was still sharp. Unable to hide it from him, I took him to the hospital to see Mrs. Cooper. Mrs. Cooper was surprised to see Jasper. Jasper rushed into her arms, “Mom! Jasper will behave from now on, please don’t get sick, okay?” Mrs. Cooper’s hand trembled, but she eventually patted Jasper’s back. Tears welled in her eyes, “Forget it, living an ordinary life is fine too.” Jasper eagerly volunteered to get hot water for Mrs. Cooper, and she smiled and agreed. After he ran out excitedly with the kettle, she indicated for me to follow him to ensure nothing happened. When I caught up to the place where water was fetched, I only saw Jasper lying on the ground and the kettle of hot water spilled. He had run too fast, slipped on the water, and fell. When he woke up, he miraculously recovered. “The blood clot in the patient’s brain has mostly dissipated; he can be discharged without any issues.” Mrs. Cooper cried tears of joy upon hearing the doctor’s words. Everyone gathered around Jasper and Mrs. Cooper, returning to the Cooper Family home. I stood alone in the empty hospital room, feeling momentarily lost. Jasper had recovered, so what about me? After returning to the Cooper Family home, Jasper was furious. “Get everything replaced immediately! How did my room become such a mess? It’s disgusting!” Any trace of my existence was quickly erased. Initially, I was thrilled to hear Jasper had recovered, but now I felt like I was plunged into an ice cave. When Jasper looked at me, there was no longer any warmth in his eyes, only undisguised disdain. “Get out! Do any random stray cat or dog think they can enter my room?” He returned to his usual aloof and commanding self. “This is Adeline, Aunt Adeline’s daughter. She took great care of you when you were injured. Why not have her stay with you a bit longer?” It was only then that Mrs. Cooper seemed to remember my presence and tentatively explained to Jasper.

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In the fifth year of my marriage to Nolan, his first love returned. He placed her on his maintenance team. When I questioned him, he retorted, “Do you know why I chose her? Because she’s not like you, just a housewife obsessed with romance!” So, when he asked for a divorce for the twenty-second time, I nodded, “Let’s get divorced then.” Nolan scoffed, “Don’t come begging me like a stray dog.” I nodded, efficiently packed my belongings while he watched in disbelief. “Goodbye forever.” In the fifth year of my marriage to Nolan, he asked for a divorce for the twenty-second time. It all began because today was our anniversary. We had planned to go out for French cuisine, and the reservation was set, but he didn’t come home on time, so I drove to his office. As I passed the coffee shop downstairs, I saw him standing with a girl. The sight of her made my heart clench, and I struggled to breathe. It was Eloise, his ex-girlfriend, with whom he had a stormy five-year relationship before they finally parted ways. They stood at the bar, the girl in a stylish white outfit exuding a professional yet charming vibe. The man was in a suit. Their actions weren’t overtly intimate, but the love in their eyes was unmistakable. I took out my phone and opened my chat with Nolan. My last messages were still there, unanswered. Every time I called, he was busy, busy spending time with someone else. I walked into the coffee shop but couldn’t bring myself to interrupt the lovely scene. The gentle, affectionate smile on Nolan’s face was something I’d never seen directed towards me. Every time he came home, he wore a scowl, and I thought it was work stress. Turns out, he was unhappy because I wasn’t the person he wanted to see. After getting coffee, Nolan turned and saw me. He was momentarily startled, then gently patted the girl’s head, said something that made her pout, and she left. Nolan got into the car, frowning again, “What are you doing here?” I shrugged nonchalantly, “I came to pick you up from work. Didn’t we agree to have French dinner tonight?” “And, I remember you saying you wouldn’t let Eloise join your maintenance team.” Nolan’s frown deepened, “Phoebe, can you stop being so unreasonable?” “Eloise graduated from a prestigious aviation university and worked in a top maintenance team in Malaysia for years. Her professional skills are outstanding. Do you know how many teams want her?” “As a captain, choosing responsible crew members is about passenger safety. Why do you only think about romance? Maybe you’re too bored as a housewife. If you can’t stand it, find a job as a supermarket cashier.” He showed no restraint in his disdain. I silently gripped the steering wheel. We didn’t go for French dinner. At home, Nolan locked himself in the study, unwilling to talk. Usually, I’d try to make peace, or if I couldn’t take it, we’d have a big fight, but he’d always remain indifferent, making me look foolish. But this time, I acted as if nothing happened, quietly going about my business. An hour later, Nolan suddenly opened the study door. “Who are you sulking for?” “Eloise passed the team interview. I’m not letting her go. If you care, we can just divorce.” He seemed sure I’d back down, speaking with authority. “Anyway, you’re just a housewife. Without me, you can’t do anything…” “Fine, let’s divorce.” I cut him off. Nolan was stunned, “Phoebe, are you serious?” After a couple of seconds, he laughed. His smile was usually reassuring, but now it was laced with mockery, “Phoebe, I’m not joking.” “If we divorce, don’t come crying back, saying you can’t bear to part and only love me. It’s pathetic.” Though this wasn’t our first fight, hearing such hurtful words nearly shattered my composure. I was used to his harsh words, but it still hurt. I took a deep breath, “I’ve drafted the agreement. The car and house are yours, and I’ll take the savings.” I placed the agreement in front of Nolan. His expression shifted from disdain to disbelief, but he soon took it blankly. “Phoebe, once you sign this, there’s no going back. No matter how much you beg, I won’t look at you again. As a faded housewife, you’ll struggle to find better. I suggest you think…” I handed him the pen, “Stop wasting time. Sign it.” Nolan was stunned, grabbed the pen, and signed quickly to save face. “Tomorrow at nine, don’t disappear,” he mocked. I shook my head seriously, “I won’t. I’ve already made the appointment.” That night, I moved my bedding to the living room, listening to the sounds of things being thrown in the bedroom, crying silently under the covers.

Maybe my relationship with Nolan was doomed from the start. I always chased him, an eight-year crush from college. After graduation, he and Eloise broke up, and everyone knew. Eloise got an overseas job offer, but Nolan had been interning at a domestic airport for six months, soon to be permanent. Neither could give up their future, so they parted ways. At that farewell party, Eloise didn’t come. Nolan drank heavily and was a mess. Leaving, he was unconscious. His friends knew I liked him, so they urged me to take him home. Even drunk, he was a grown man, over six feet tall, his weight on me. I got him to the couch but was pulled into his alcohol-scented embrace. I had a few drinks at the party too. As the alcohol hit, I heard him sobbing, “Eloise, don’t leave me.” The next morning, I fled with a hickey on my neck. We silently agreed not to contact each other, and I thought my crush was over. Then I found out I was pregnant. My periods were always regular, and when I noticed something off, I got tested. With the report in hand, I sat in the hospital corridor. On a whim, I texted Nolan. I didn’t want to trap him with the baby, but he had a right to know. I waited at the hospital till night, but he didn’t respond. I thought he blocked me, but then Nolan called. “Phoebe, let’s get married.” If not for being in a hospital, I would’ve screamed with joy. I thought I used all my luck for his proposal. But I stayed calm, “If you’re doing this out of duty, I don’t need it.” He paused, then firmly said, “Phoebe, I’ll take responsibility. We can be together.” I waited for him at the hospital entrance. As he approached, he became the handsome boy from my youth. I didn’t know when I fell for him. Maybe when he caught me skipping class but let me go, teasing, “Like a little rabbit, hard to scold.” Or maybe every morning and evening I watched him. But at this moment, my longing finally found hope. Later, Nolan’s mother used my pregnancy as an excuse to skip the wedding. She made my life difficult, and I lost the baby. But I believed if I worked hard enough, Nolan would see my worth. How naive I was back then. Five years later, my sincerity was worn out, meaningless.

The next morning, I got up half an hour early. As nine approached, I knocked on the bedroom door. Nolan took his time, still in yesterday’s suit, “You’re eager for divorce.” I checked my watch and echoed his words, “It’s almost nine. Are you planning to disappear?” “Didn’t you always want a divorce? Now you’re almost free, why need a reminder?” Five years have gone by, and the sincerity has long faded away. It’s not even worth mentioning anymore. The next evening, I deliberately got up half an hour earlier. As the clock approached nine, I knocked on the bedroom door. Nolan finally came to open the door, still wearing the same suit from yesterday. “Phoebe, are you really in such a rush to get divorced?” I glanced at my watch and threw his words from the previous night back at him: “It’s almost nine. Are you planning to pull a disappearing act?” “Besides, haven’t you always wanted a divorce? You’re about to be free. Why do I need to remind you?” With that, I went to the door to change my shoes. “Hurry up, or we’ll have to reschedule if it’s past nine.” Nolan sneered and followed me to the door. “Fine, let’s get divorced. Eloise is much better than you. Marrying her will bring me more happiness than I can express.” I nodded, brushing off his comment. On the way to City Hall, Nolan drove like he was in a fury, cursing at everyone we passed. I sat in the back, eyes closed, resting. I’m used to interacting like this by now. In five years of marriage, Nolan and I rarely talked about the little things in life, as couples do. Initially, I would share interesting or delicious things with him, but he always responded with indifference, sometimes even impatience. Eventually, I stopped trying, convincing myself he was just naturally aloof. But that wasn’t true. I had seen him on Phoebe’s social media, being witty and charming. That warmth just wasn’t for me. At City Hall, the mediator kept trying to reconcile us. I smiled and said, “There’s no need to persuade us. The divorce is a mutual decision after careful consideration. Besides, it was a shotgun wedding. There’s no real affection.” Nolan glanced at me, a complex expression on his face. But I didn’t care. Seeing we were beyond help, the mediator sighed: “There’s a one-month cooling-off period for divorces now. If you’re sure, come back in a month.” “Take this time to think it over. Look at you two; such a handsome couple. If you’ve been married this long, there must be some feelings. Don’t act impulsively.” Nolan is indeed good-looking, I agree. When we started school, he was famous for his looks. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have had a crush on him for so many years. Plus, he comes from a good family, always treated like royalty. Back in college, while we were eating street food, he was taking Eloise to fancy French restaurants. He was generous and loyal to his friends and classmates. But with me, he was stingy, unwilling to share even a bit of affection. I used to agonize over whether I wasn’t good enough. But now, I realize that’s not important. He treated me poorly, not the other way around. Because I hadn’t slept well, I kept yawning. Nolan turned to see my tear-filled eyes. He thought I was crying because I couldn’t bear the divorce, feeling smug: “I told you there’s no remedy for regret. Even if you don’t want the divorce now, it’s too late.” “I, Nolan, never go back.” I ignored him and headed home. Once there, Nolan habitually said, “Go make lunch. I want sweet and sour ribs today.” I ignored him and went into the kitchen, but I came out with the rice cooker I had customized. He widened his eyes: “What are you doing?” “I bought the rice cooker. Of course, I’m taking it with me after the divorce.” Besides the rice cooker I’m reluctant to leave behind, I also want to take the shoe cabinet and glass vase I bought. But they’re too big and inconvenient to move. “What do you mean?” Nolan asked, trying to suppress his anger, and I saw a vein throbbing on his temple. “Isn’t it obvious? I’ve found a new place and plan to move out. Oh, though you didn’t buy me much, I’ve left the things you did in the bedroom. Handle them as you wish.” Watching me busily pack my suitcase, Nolan suddenly erupted, kicking the coffee table. “Phoebe, if you leave, don’t ever come back.” I frowned at him, “We’ve been married for years. Do you really have to be so hostile?” “Wouldn’t it be better to part ways gracefully?” “There’s no point in maintaining appearances between us. If you’re leaving, just stop nagging.”

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I was coerced by Jasper into donating a kidney to my sister, and I died right there on the table. Upon my rebirth, I realized I was the main character in a romance novel, and my sister had awakened early to try to eliminate me. I resolved to no longer be merciful. When I allied with a billionaire CEO to fight back, Jasper locked me to the bed, kissing me passionately: “Promise me you won’t see other men, okay?” I was restrained on the cold operating table, the glaring light above making it impossible to open my eyes. Yet, I held back tears, turning my head to plead with Jasper beside me, “Jasper, please, let me go?” A flicker of hesitation crossed Jasper’s face, but Daphne’s anguished expression quickly drew his focus. At that moment, Daphne looked at me with a pitiful pallor, “Sister, just one kidney is all it takes to save me. Surely, you wouldn’t be so selfish?” She started to cry softly right after. “Brother Jasper, if sister doesn’t want to, maybe we should wait…” Listening to her, Jasper’s eyes turned resolute. He held my hand and said tenderly, “Lydia, just this one time. I’ll give you anything you want once we’re back.” Hearing him, I released his hand. At that moment, I gave up, realizing that saying anything more was futile. I spoke coolly, “Get on with it.” But tears slipped from the corners of my eyes. I don’t know if I died or if I was dreaming, but I vaguely heard sounds of struggle and someone trying to wake me, “Sister, I’m sorry, I came too late…”

When I opened my eyes again, I found myself in Jasper’s bed. Instinctively, I touched my body and was astonished to find the surgical scar was gone. I immediately grabbed the phone from the bedside table and found the date was actually a week earlier. I distinctly remembered dying on the operating table. Could this be a rebirth? I weakly got out of bed, clearly having had a tumultuous night before. At this moment, Daphne had already moved into my house, citing illness. As I passed by Daphne’s room, I deliberately slowed my pace. I overheard an anxious voice inside: “Why hasn’t Jasper let me take Lydia’s kidney yet? Does Jasper still love that woman? What’s the next part of the storyline…” Hearing this, I was stunned. So, I’m the protagonist of a romance novel, with Jasper as my childhood sweetheart and the male lead I eventually marry. And Daphne is just a disposable female antagonist meant to develop my relationship with Jasper. Her end is a tragic death on the street. But she woke up early, twisted all the plot lines, and walked through the story that was originally mine. In the end, because she couldn’t fight the script and realized Jasper still liked me, she arranged for me to die on the operating table. I couldn’t help but smile wryly. How fascinating, truly fascinating! I stared fixedly at that door: “In the last life, you knew my path ahead of time and killed me first. But this life, I know too. My dear sister, let’s see who wins.”

Looking at the time, around now in the previous life, a fire was about to break out. Back then, I bravely rushed into the inferno to save Jasper’s mother and child, disregarding my own safety. When I awoke, he coldly questioned me, “Who told you to come?” I defended myself, but he gripped my neck tightly and said, “Don’t think that just because of my feelings for you, I won’t kill you.” And Daphne, who did nothing, was cared for by him in every possible way. This time, I decided to save him again. But not by myself. Not for any other reason but to let him feel guilt towards me, both physically and emotionally, in the end. After all, he’s the male lead and won’t die easily. “Lydia, let’s go back to the old house. Grandma has been asking for us,” Jasper called me. Back at the old house, just like in the last life, I sat in the garden playing chess with the old lady. At this time, Jasper and his mom were in the kitchen, trying to be filial. I estimated the time was about right and immediately walked to the kitchen, watching him try hard to carry his mom out. In the last life, I rushed into the inferno to carry them out, but I fainted from exhaustion at the door. Now, I hurriedly shouted for help, and when enough people went in for rescue, I rushed in to support Jasper. As I turned to look at the corner of the wall, I quickly noticed a shadow there. I pretended to faint, collapsing at the door. Indeed, a faint camera click sounded from there. I smiled, knowing something was amiss.

After everyone sent me to the hospital room. I immediately got up and walked to Jasper’s room, and sure enough, Daphne was inside. Daphne was peeling an apple, speaking sweetly, “Brother Jasper, I didn’t expect sister to be like that. Don’t blame her, okay?” Jasper looked down, his expression unclear, “Thank you…” At this moment, I pushed the door open, “Shouldn’t you thank me?” Jasper raised his head quickly, coldly questioning me, “Who told you to come?” Of course, it’s the same line. I sneered, looking down at the photo in his hand, “Already forgot your savior so quickly?” The next second, I snatched the photo from his hand, tore it up, and threw it between them. “Seeing isn’t always believing.” But then Daphne stood up and slapped me, “Sister, wake up. It’s already good that Brother Jasper isn’t blaming you, don’t continue down the wrong path…” I covered my face, frowning at Jasper, “What do you think happened?” He remained silent. I laughed coldly a couple of times and threw the photos I specially asked my friend to secretly take at them, “See who really saved you.” Jasper picked up the photos, still frowning, “Lydia, there’s no need to deceive me with fake photos.” “What? I’m using fake photos? Then why do you believe Daphne’s photos are real?” Daphne pretended to hesitate, “Sister, you don’t need to do this. Everyone knows you and other men… have been deceiving Brother Jasper.” Looking at the seemingly dumbfounded person on the bed, I immediately left the room. Daphne shouted behind me, “Sister, where are you going? Brother Jasper hasn’t been discharged yet…” Jasper’s cold voice came through, “Let her go.”

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