Author: Momo Chan

After news spread throughout the company that the CEO’s fiancée I had risked my life to save was going to marry her true love and have his child, everyone thought I, as the jilted fiancé, would go mad with anger. But even after their child was born, I never caused any trouble. Instead, I focused all my energy on securing projects for the struggling company. My ex-fiancée thought I had finally accepted my role as merely a tool to manage her company. She smugly promised me: “Seeing as you’re so sensible about earning money for me and the baby, I’ll reluctantly keep you at the company, giving you a chance to continue taking care of us.” But she seemed rather presumptuous. I wasn’t working for her and the child, but preparing to take over the company next week. From now on, I won’t compromise by being her behind-the-scenes supportive partner. Instead, I’ll replace her as the new CEO! I had just finished a meeting with a client when I saw Jack changing his and Olivia’s baby’s diaper at my desk. “Mr. Jack, you really have it tough – working and taking care of the baby. Once Ms. Olivia is back from maternity leave, she’ll definitely give you a big promotion and raise!” one colleague gushed. “That’s right, a baby born in the Year of the Snake is destined for greatness. When he grows up, he’ll be just as outstanding as Mr. Jack – a pillar of the company,” another chimed in. The tiny 50 square foot room, which used to be my office, was now crammed full of my project team colleagues. It had been transformed into Jack’s nursery at the office, stuffed with baby supplies. Even the wall that once displayed the awards I’d won for the company had been stripped bare, replaced with photos documenting every day of the baby’s life from birth to one month old. There were plenty of empty rooms in the company due to recent layoffs. But Jack insisted that only my office had the right feng shui for the baby’s growth, according to some fortune teller he’d consulted. Everyone could tell it was just an excuse for Jack to antagonize me. But Olivia, who had always prided herself on being rational and scientific, actually believed it. She even made me move to a tiny cubicle next to the restrooms, claiming I needed to block some sort of negative energy for her and Jack’s baby. She showed not an ounce of guilt for breaking our long-standing engagement to marry and have a child with Jack. Coming back to my senses, I noticed Jack eyeing the freshly signed contract in my hand. He sauntered over with a smarmy smile. “I’m so sorry for the trouble, Lucas,” he said with fake sincerity. “I’ve been busy with the baby lately, and Olivia still needs a few more days of maternity leave. Thank you for handling all the business trips recently. I’ll be sure to tell Olivia about your contributions!” Though Jack’s words were polite, his right hand was already reaching for the contract I was holding. In the year since Jack joined the company, he had been constantly stealing my projects and achievements, relying on Olivia’s blatant favoritism. In the past, I always compromised and tolerated it for the sake of my relationship with Olivia. But now that she had married him, I had no reason to put up with it anymore. I swatted his hand away firmly. “Jack, you’ve already stolen my fiancée. Are you trying to steal the contract I just negotiated too?” Before Jack could respond, my colleagues rushed to defend him: “What do you mean ‘stolen’? Lucas, that’s so rude of you to say!” “Yeah, Mr. Jack is just too busy taking care of the baby to handle projects himself. He had no choice but to hand them over to you. You got an easy win and now you’re complaining? You’re just a freeloader – what right do you have to make a fuss?” I could only laugh bitterly at the irony. It’s true that Jack was the one who initially brought in this project. But to prove himself, he had gotten drunk with the client and rashly promised to do the project for only 60% of our usual price. He may have landed the deal, but he gave no thought to whether we could actually deliver at that price. In the end, I was the one who worked overtime optimizing the technology and even dipped into my own pocket to negotiate with suppliers just to barely bring the costs down enough to make it feasible. And now it had all become Jack’s accomplishment. Seeing that I remained uncompromising, Jack kept a fake smile plastered on his face, saying as long as the company made money it was all good. But when no one was looking, he deliberately pinched the baby hard. The next moment, amid a burst of loud wailing, I found myself splattered with the baby’s poop and pee. Even the freshly signed contract was ruined. “Oh no, I’m so sorry Lucas! I’m a new dad and don’t have much experience yet. My hand slipped – please forgive me,” Jack said with exaggerated concern. Seeing my darkening expression, my colleagues naturally wouldn’t miss this chance to suck up to Jack: “Lucas, are you really going to hold a grudge against a month-old baby? Have you no shame?” “No wonder Olivia broke off the engagement. With that nasty temper, you can’t hold a candle to the gentleman Mr. Jack is.” Hearing them mention the broken engagement, I couldn’t help but let out a cold laugh. Olivia and I had been together for seven years and were already engaged, about to have our wedding. But a year ago, her ex Jack suddenly reappeared. He was hired into the company as an exception, thanks to Olivia. Not long after, Olivia urgently sent me on an overseas business trip. By the time I returned, I heard the news that they had gotten married due to an unplanned pregnancy. Rather than a gentleman, “wolf in sheep’s clothing” seemed a more fitting description for Jack. But I had urgent matters to attend to and no time to argue with them. I calmly took a document from my drawer and tossed Jack’s discarded diaper back at him. “Sorry, I’ve been working too much overtime lately and my eyes are tired. I meant to throw it in the trash can, but my hand slipped. Hope you understand,” I said flatly. A foul stench immediately wafted from Jack’s expensive suit. His face turned green, but I didn’t give them a chance to berate me. I walked out with the document and drove straight to the business registration office, handing the file to the clerk. “Please help me register this change in shareholder information,” I said. It was a share transfer agreement that Olivia had personally signed six months ago, right before I left for my overseas business trip. It transferred all her shares back to me. The company was originally founded by me alone, with my own funding and technology. Naturally all the shares had been in my name at first. It wasn’t until a few years ago when the business took off that I gifted Olivia 51% of the shares as compensation for the hardships she endured with me in the early days. It fulfilled her dream of being the boss. In recent years, with the tough business environment, the company had been struggling. I had planned to buy back all the shares so I could shoulder the risks myself rather than letting Olivia potentially go into debt. I thought it would be a difficult conversation and had prepared a bunch of excuses to convince Olivia, worried she might misunderstand my intentions. But the day before I left, when I approached Olivia about it, she signed without even looking at the document, urging me to hurry up and leave for my trip. I even asked her then if she wasn’t afraid I might be trying to swindle her. But she just smiled and helped me pack, saying we were about to get married anyway, so what was mine was hers and vice versa. At the time, I thought Olivia loved me deeply. I boarded the plane that very night, vowing to secure the deal and save the company. But when I returned successfully with the contract, Olivia had already married Jack and even given birth to a chubby baby boy. Only then did I realize – she hadn’t signed out of trust in me. She was already pregnant and rushing to marry Jack. She signed and pushed me to leave quickly because she was afraid I’d notice something was off if her belly started to show. But it worked out well enough. At least the company was still in my hands. After verifying that the agreement was in order, the clerk suddenly asked: “Mr. Lucas, for such an important matter as a share transfer, why didn’t Ms. Olivia come with you?” I shook my head calmly. “She’s still on maternity leave.” Hearing this, the clerk was taken aback for a moment before congratulating me on becoming a father. He cheerfully went off to process the public notice for the share transfer. But I couldn’t bring myself to smile. Because I wasn’t the baby’s father. Nor was I her husband. As I waited lost in thought, my phone suddenly rang. It was Olivia calling. I had barely answered when a torrent of angry words came through: “Jack just accidentally got some dirt on a contract. You could have just asked the client to sign a new one. Why did you make such a scene at the office? You scared the baby!” Before Olivia could finish her tirade, the clerk had already returned with the paperwork for me to sign. “Sign?” Olivia’s voice came through the phone. “Lucas, it’s still work hours. Why aren’t you at the office? Where did you run off to?!” After signing, I finally explained: “Signing an agreement.” There was a pause on the other end before Olivia’s tone softened considerably. “Well, that’s more like it. Seeing how hard you’re working to make money for me and the baby, I suppose I can graciously keep you at the company and give you a chance to take care of us.” But I barely registered what she was saying. Looking at the new shareholder list showing me as the 91% majority owner and de facto CEO, I couldn’t help but laugh. Olivia on the other end misunderstood, thinking I was grateful. She continued smugly: “Look at how pleased you are. Keep up the good work. When I’m back from maternity leave, I might consider giving you a promotion and raise.” After a few more instructions, Olivia hung up with a laugh. But she had no idea that in just two days, once the review period was over, I would be the company’s new CEO. I wonder if she’ll still be able to laugh then.

After firmly regaining control of my own company, I felt a weight lift off my shoulders. I headed home first, planning to pack up my belongings and make a clean break from Olivia. But as soon as I opened the door, a musty smell assaulted my senses. Olivia had been in the hospital for the latter part of her pregnancy, then went straight to a postpartum care center after giving birth. I had been away on business trips. This home probably hadn’t been tidied in nearly half a year. I was about to open a window to air things out when I suddenly tripped over something in the living room. Looking down, I realized it was a large picture frame that had been tossed on the floor. Picking it up, I saw it was the wedding photo Olivia and I had taken after getting engaged. Come to think of it, it was Olivia who had insisted on going to the photo studio for a pre-wedding shoot back then. She had me try on dozens of suits, never quite satisfied, spending an entire afternoon before finally choosing a white suit she liked. Though it wasn’t really my style, I accepted it happily, touched by how much effort Olivia had put into choosing it for me. The earnestness in her eyes that day was still vivid in my memory. Snapping back to the present, I wiped the dust off the frame, feeling confused. I had always kept our wedding photo hanging in the bedroom. Why was it thrown on the living room floor? It wasn’t until I walked into the bedroom that I understood. Above the headboard now hung a wedding photo of Olivia and Jack. In the picture, a visibly pregnant Olivia was wrapped in Jack’s arms, smiling like she had won the whole world. And they were wearing the exact wedding dress and suit that Olivia had so carefully selected that day. Suddenly it all made sense. No wonder Olivia wasn’t satisfied no matter how many suits I tried on that afternoon. No wonder she ended up choosing a stark white suit that didn’t suit me at all. It was never meant for me in the first place. Over the years, my skin had gotten quite tanned from all the business trips and time spent outdoors. A pure white suit looked odd and out of place on me. But Jack, who had been cooped up in the office as Olivia’s assistant, was pale and delicate. The white suit made him look like a prince charming straight out of a fairytale. I let out a bitter laugh and started to pack up my things, planning to sell the house afterwards. This apartment was originally prepared by my parents as our marital home. Since the marriage wasn’t happening anymore, there was no point keeping it. Might as well sell it to ease the company’s tight cash flow. But when I opened the closet, my fists clenched involuntarily. All my belongings were gone, replaced by Jack’s dress shirts that he often wore. I immediately messaged Olivia, demanding to know what happened to my clothes. It was a good 15 minutes before she replied: “Of course I threw them all out. Jack’s old apartment was too far from the office, so I had him move in here.” “He’s a germaphobe and couldn’t use your things, so I got rid of them.” “Besides, you bought all that stuff with the salary I paid you. It was my money to begin with, so I can do whatever I want with it. I don’t need your permission, do I?” I had to admit, Olivia had always had a talent for twisted logic and self-justification. Seeing I didn’t respond, she sent another message: “What, are you upset about losing your old junk?” “I heard about what happened at the office this morning. If you quietly hand over the project to Jack, I’ll buy you a new set of designer clothes. I’ll even let you keep a storage room to rest in.” “No need,” I replied curtly. Before Olivia could type anything else, I blocked her on all messaging apps and called a junk collector to clear out everything in the apartment. Then I listed the property for sale with a real estate agency and checked into a hotel. Early the next morning, the junk collector transferred me some money. Though he only paid 30 cents per pound as scrap, it still added up to a decent sum. Clearly Olivia had spared no expense in buying things for Jack, as if she wanted to give him the whole world. I was about to get up and wash up when Olivia suddenly called. “Lucas! Who gave you permission to sell our marital home?! Where are Jack and the baby supposed to live now?!” “And what about all his designer suits and gaming consoles? Where did you throw them?!” Olivia was so angry she could barely catch her breath. I found it darkly amusing. My belongings could be tossed out without a second thought, but Jack’s things were suddenly precious treasures. “Oh, so you do remember it was supposed to be our marital home?” I replied calmly. “Since you’ve married Jack now, what’s wrong with me selling it?” “As for the stuff in the house, it’s all been sold for scrap, of course.” There was a moment of stunned silence on the other end. But Olivia quickly recovered, letting out a contemptuous laugh. “Lucas, do you think selling the house means I’m out of options? Don’t tell me you’re trying to play hard to get, using these petty tricks to get my attention.” “Know your place. You’re just a tool I hired to work for me. Don’t go imagining things that will never happen!” With that, Olivia hung up. Almost simultaneously, Jack posted an update on social media. It was a photo of him signing purchase documents at a real estate office. The caption read: “Finally have a place to call my own in this city.” Jack’s assistant position at the company didn’t pay much, and given his extravagant spending habits, there was no way he could afford to buy property on his own. Obviously, Olivia had footed the bill, buying back the house I had just put on the market. Jack’s post was clearly meant to show off and rub it in my face. But far from being upset, I could barely hold back my laughter. Though housing prices had dropped in recent years, I had bought early enough that I still made a profit overall. If anything, Olivia had essentially handed over all the company’s earnings from the past two years to me. And Jack was treating a depreciating asset like some precious treasure. I treated myself to a lavish meal to celebrate for the first time in ages. The business registration office also sent a text notifying me that the change in shareholding had been approved. I was in high spirits as I prepared to go take over the company. But as soon as I walked through the doors, I ran into Olivia. “What are you doing here? Aren’t you supposed to be—” Before I could finish, Olivia’s palm connected sharply with my cheek.

“Lucas, is this how a senior employee sets an example?” Olivia’s voice dripped with disdain. “Skipping work for two consecutive days – you’re nothing but a bad influence!” “I didn’t build this company so you could slack off and collect a paycheck!” “Starting tomorrow, your performance bonuses for the next year are canceled. And you can forget about being a director anymore. Go be Jack’s assistant and learn how to be a proper employee!” Hearing Olivia’s harsh punishment, my colleagues didn’t even try to hide their mockery. Given the company’s small size and Jack’s embellishments, I had long since become everyone’s scapegoat. But Olivia’s accusation of absenteeism was completely baseless. Last month, I had already applied for and been approved for a week of external business trips that didn’t require clocking in at the office. She had personally signed off on it herself. In reality, this was just an excuse Olivia had concocted to help Jack get revenge. Seeing me lower my head silently, Olivia’s brows furrowed. “Lucas, I’m talking to you. Are you deaf?” “The baby just had an accident. Hurry up and help Jack clean up unless you want the whole office to stink!” But I remained motionless. After all, I was now the true owner of this company. Before I could speak, Jack jumped in, putting on an act of being the good guy. “Olivia, don’t be angry. Lucas must be exhausted from his business trips the past couple days.” “I’m young and energetic. I can handle working and taking care of the baby at the same time.” But before he could make a move, Olivia stopped him worriedly. “No need. You’ve been so busy these past few months with the birth and childcare. You’ve gotten so thin!” “Besides, you just got promoted and took over that big project. Focus on preparing your presentation for the upcoming press conference.” “As for him, if he still wants to keep his job here, let him do some grunt work. It’ll cure his laziness and show him how tough you’ve had it taking care of the baby.” I watched the concern in Olivia’s eyes as she looked at Jack, finding the whole situation absurd. Jack was nothing but a smooth talker. At work, he pawned off both childcare and his actual job responsibilities to suck-up colleagues while he hid in his office eating fried chicken and playing video games. Meanwhile, I had been running all over securing deals these past few years as the company struggled. I even rushed to sign a contract with a client right after a car accident instead of going to the hospital. Even the client was moved by my dedication. But in Olivia’s eyes, I had somehow become a lazy freeloader. The difference in how she treated us couldn’t be more stark. Coming back to my senses, I stared directly at Olivia and spoke evenly: “Correct me if I’m wrong, but doesn’t the company handbook explicitly prohibit bringing infants to the office as it disrupts work?” “And I had already applied for and been approved for external business trips that don’t require clocking in. You have no grounds to punish me.” This was probably the first time in seven years that I had openly contradicted Olivia. She was momentarily stunned. But she quickly recovered, letting out a scornful laugh. “Lucas, I’ll admit, you’ve gotten my attention. But you’re going about it all wrong.” “I am the CEO of this company. If I say you were absent without leave, then you were absent without leave!” “As for those projects and client files you’re working on, I’ve already had everything backed up. Did you really think you were irreplaceable?” “HR, draft up his termination papers. And notify all our partner companies to blacklist him from future employment.” As HR was about to comply, I stopped them. “No need. I’ve already prepared the termination papers myself.” Jack’s face lit up with glee, though he still put on a show of reluctance. “Lucas, why are you being so stubborn?” “Why don’t you just apologize to Olivia? She’s so kindhearted, I’m sure she’d let you keep a job cleaning toilets or something, given how you used to take care of her.” Meanwhile, Olivia’s chin lifted even higher seeing me stop HR. “I didn’t expect you to be so self-aware.” “How about this – seeing as you’ve been a useful dog, if you voluntarily give up…” Before Olivia could finish, I cut her off and tossed two termination letters to her and Jack. “Enough with the nonsense. You can both get out now.” Looking at her own termination letter, Olivia froze for a moment before letting out a contemptuous laugh. “What authority do you have as an employee to fire me?” I smiled coldly and pulled out the official notice of shareholding transfer. “Ms. Olivia – no, make that just Olivia – you seem to have a very selective memory.” “Take a good look. I am now the CEO and controlling shareholder of this company.” “As for you and Jack, you’re both fired effective immediately for violating company policies and attempting to steal confidential information. I’ve already given you your termination letters!”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296505”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn

Declan hosted a celebration party for me tonight. He mysteriously hinted that he had the gift I had been dreaming of and would present it to me in front of everyone tonight. However, when I put on an expensive dress and arrived on time, the hall was empty. Declan’s mocking tone came through the speakers: “Let’s give a warm celebration for Miss Celeste for signing a fifty-million-dollar deal, thank you all for coming!” At that moment, the doors burst open, and everyone rushed in, surrounding Celeste as she walked in. My younger brother shouted, “Sister, are you here to host Celeste’s celebration party?” Countless streamers shot into the air, only to rain down as rotten tomato pieces. Declan wrapped his arm around Celeste’s shoulder and, amidst everyone’s adoration, placed my favorite sapphire necklace around her neck. He said, “Vera, do you see this? This sapphire necklace only suits Celeste’s neck.” “Did you really think you were worthy of having me throw a celebration for you?” “Who wouldn’t follow behind Celeste and scoop up ready-made clients?” I stood there awkwardly, speechless. Declan laughed wickedly, “You’re so vain, everyone here is a wealthy heir. You could just kneel and beg anyone to marry you, why just me?” But when I sent out the real invitations, their faces turned pale when they saw the groom’s name. 1. The empty hall echoed with the piercing broadcast, filled with Declan and Celeste’s playful voices. “Vera really showed up?” “And she wore such a grand evening dress, it’s hilarious!” I understood. This was yet another of Declan’s tactics to humiliate me for Celeste. Sure enough, they were watching the hall’s surveillance, seeing me arrive in full dress, as if watching a clown. “Celeste, didn’t you say you were bored? Isn’t this celebration much more exciting?” My brother Nolan pushed open the hall doors, excitedly shouting, “Welcome the star of today’s event!” Behind the doors was a crowd of guests. They whispered mocking comments about my inappropriate attire. “Is she trying to steal Celeste’s thunder by wearing such a dress here?” “Who doesn’t know this is Celeste’s celebration and birthday party, yet she’s here singing and dancing.” My best friend from childhood waved her hand at that moment. Seeing Declan nod, countless party poppers went off, resounding throughout the building. Colorful streamers fell, blinding everyone’s eyes. Feeling the wet and cold touch, I realized what landed on me were pieces of rotten tomatoes. My nails dug into my palms, the freshly done manicure sharp enough to cut through my hands. Declan thoughtfully brought out a black velvet box, inside was the dazzling sapphire necklace. He personally put it on Celeste. At this moment, Celeste’s indifferent smile finally turned into genuine happiness. Declan walked towards me, flicking tomato residue off my face disdainfully onto my dress. “Vera, aren’t you happy with so many people here celebrating for you?” He spread his arms towards the guests, “Look, all their eyes are on you. Isn’t this what you wanted?” At this moment, my brother Nolan rushed up and grabbed my wrist, “Sister, it was Celeste who initiated the client first, yet you signed the contract before her. Don’t you know she’s mentally fragile?” “How dare you hurt her like that!” Then my best friend Adeline, holding Celeste’s arm, approached, “Sister Vera, the sapphire necklace you’ve always wanted, now completely belongs to her.” “You don’t deserve it. How can someone like you compare to Celeste?” A server passed by with champagne, and Adeline grabbed a glass and splashed it onto my face. “You still dream of Declan marrying you? Stop dreaming, your engagement doesn’t count!” “Parental verbal promises are outdated now!” “No matter how you cling, Declan won’t marry you.” Declan timely handed over a piece of paper, pretending to care for me, “Vera, if you’re so eager to marry into a wealthy family, everyone here has been my good friend for years and partners of the Declan family.” “If you kneel and apologize to Celeste, I’ll help you find a husband.” Nolan laughed so hard he was almost out of breath, patting Declan on the shoulder, “Declan, don’t be too generous to my sister. She doesn’t deserve such good conditions. Look at her, covered in tomato juice, dress all messy. No one would even pick her up if she was left on the roadside.” Before he finished speaking, I could already feel the malicious glances directed at me. In the past, facing such embarrassment, I would have begged Declan to let me leave, not to put me under such scrutiny. I would have tearfully looked at Nolan, saying I am his real sister. Even if not from the same parents, we are family. He couldn’t treat me like this. I would have incredulously asked Adeline why she was betraying me when I considered her my best friend. But unfortunately. At this moment, I was calm. I took off my gloves, wiped away the tomato residue from my face. I turned to the glass to check my hairstyle, cleaning out the visible debris from my hair. I spoke softly, “Declan, thank you for inviting so many guests for me, so everyone can witness this important moment of mine.” “I was originally a bit embarrassed, wanting to keep a low profile. But now, it seems there’s no need to be low-key.” 2. Declan seemed to hear the most hilarious joke, bending over with laughter. “Vera, are you still taking this seriously? The sapphire necklace is already on Celeste’s neck, don’t you know who the star of this party is?” “Oh my god, I didn’t expect you to be so foolish, you’ve outdone yourself again, hahaha!” “Celeste, did you see? Even if she signed your contract first, it doesn’t change the fact that she’s a lowlife.” “Absolutely shameless, you may not feel embarrassed, but I do!” At this moment, Nolan felt ashamed of his sister’s public humiliation and shouted angrily, “Shut up! Everyone knows Declan gave Celeste a fifty-million-dollar project to cheer her up, and we are all here to celebrate for her!” Adeline looked down on me with a triumphant smile, as if she were Celeste. Their malice was undisguised, their laughter stabbing me like a knife repeatedly. My heart was bleeding. But I knew. My parents had chosen Declan as my fiancé, and my brother Nolan and my best friend Adeline would stop at nothing to please Celeste today. Three days ago, I moved Vanguard Group with my indomitable spirit, and they were willing to sign a thirty-million-dollar contract with me. That night, Declan came to me, casually saying, “Vera, congratulations, you finally achieved your dream and secured your position in the company.” “I’ve planned a celebration for the day after tomorrow, so everyone can be happy for you.” “And the sapphire necklace you love, I’ve prepared it long ago. It will definitely surprise you.” After my birth mother passed away, my father ignored me. He only considered me a valuable daughter when I was with Declan. So I was devoted to Declan, almost giving him everything, sometimes hinting for him to mention the verbal engagement that our parents had made. But he always dodged the topic. I craved my father’s attention so much that I was willing to get burned, hoping he would give me some warmth. After he told me the news, I couldn’t wait to find my brother Nolan, wanting to tell him my efforts over the years were not in vain. But Nolan and Adeline’s conversation left me stunned. They excitedly discussed how to make me look foolish at the celebration, how to make a splash that would make Celeste happy. As if they were not my family, not my best friends growing up, but demons out to destroy me. I clung to the wall, feeling a cold chill all over. 3. Nolan was enthusiastically calling Declan. “Declan, did you really tell my sister the celebration was for her? She’s so eager for recognition; she must think her dreams are coming true this time.” Declan’s lazy voice came through, “Her disappointed and shattered expression will be hilarious.” “Let her think she’s loved, and when Celeste appears, she’ll be caught off guard.” “Celeste is bored, but Vera’s reaction will surely make her happy.” Tears streamed down my face. I had always thought my close brother was conspiring with them to hurt me. They knew it was about my position in the company, my father’s perception of me, and how much I valued it. Then my best friend Adeline spoke, “I think using streamers is boring; it seems like the celebration is really for her.” “Why not switch to rotten tomatoes? They’re both red; she probably won’t notice!” Nolan agreed, “Then why not use rotten eggs?” Declan laughingly cursed, “The smell of rotten eggs would upset Celeste. Rotten tomatoes would do just fine, enough to make her look bad!” I clamped my mouth shut, afraid my choking sobs would give me away. Adeline said, “Then we keep it a secret! Until the celebration, we must act genuinely happy for Vera.” Immense sorrow filled my heart as I fled. I never expected my eagerly anticipated celebration to be just a game. All my hopes and joys were like a joke. My childhood sweetheart, my best friend, and my brother, who vowed to protect me for life, were now plotting to ruin my career and disgrace me. Everything had changed. Since Celeste returned from abroad, everyone had turned their attention to her. Adeline said, “Let’s keep it a secret! We have to genuinely act happy for Vera before the celebration party.” I was overwhelmed with sadness and fled in despair. I never expected the celebration party I was eagerly anticipating to turn out to be just a game. All my hopes and joy felt like a joke. My childhood friends, my best friend, and my younger brother, who all promised to protect me for life, were now scheming behind my back to ruin my career and disgrace me. Everything had changed. Ever since Celeste returned to the country, everyone shifted their attention to her. But she, the pampered heiress, looked down on my struggles. She was so high and mighty, never appearing where I was, and always looked at me with contempt. At first, Declan argued with her a few times, and Nolan even scolded her for my sake. But gradually, Declan felt sympathy for her lonely years abroad, and Nolan became infatuated with her. Adeline slowly abandoned me, focusing all her attention on Celeste. To amuse her, they trampled on what mattered most to me. Since joining the company, this was the first big contract I signed. The celebration party was supposed to show everyone that I was a worthy heir of the family. I knew my father would be watching from the shadows. But they thought it was a joke, not caring about my years of effort. All for Celeste’s slight interest, they didn’t mind ruining me! Their fanatical and relentless expressions replayed in my mind. I naively thought they were my closest friends, my family. But they hurt me without hesitation. A sharp pain pierced my heart, and I felt suffocated. 4. I took a deep breath, picked up the microphone, and said to everyone: “Thank you all for coming to my celebration party. What just happened was just an opening joke to lighten the mood.” I looked around at everyone below the stage, who were whispering behind their hands. I smiled calmly, “That joke was bold. I’ll go change into another dress, and shortly, a special guest will meet you all, who is also today’s host.” That night, after learning about Declan and the others’ plan, I ordered two exquisite dresses. It didn’t matter if this one was ruined. Declan grabbed my hand, “What special guest are you talking about? Vera, are you really that stupid or just pretending?” “Everyone knows this celebration party was for Celeste. You’re just here to entertain everyone like a clown.” Adeline chimed in at the right moment, “Declan, she’s just lying to escape quickly! Hahaha.” Nolan snorted coldly, “Sister, stop pretending. Besides us, who else do you have? Since childhood, only we have been by your side. Who else is willing to be close to you?” “What special guest? You think everyone’s a fool?” The laughter grew louder. Nolan was right. Since childhood, I only had the three of them around me. I had no friends or anyone else close. I once abandoned myself chasing after Declan, enduring grievances again and again. They saw my humility but didn’t care. Adeline mocked, “Using such childish, brainless tactics to get attention, even making Declan worry about you, it’s ridiculous.” She laughed, “Who do you think you are? Just a lapdog behind Declan?” At this moment, Celeste impatiently interrupted, “Miss Vera is filthy. Don’t your parents feel ashamed?” “Stop talking about some special guest. Just leave. It’s embarrassing.” Celeste’s words were ruthless. But she was the only daughter of the Yi Group’s CEO, and no one dared offend the Yi Group. Everyone was respectful toward her. My father, Jasper, watching secretly from the second floor, shook his head in disappointment. I clutched the microphone tightly, saying, “There’s still half an hour. Please wait a bit longer. The person coming won’t disappoint you.” But as time ticked by, the person never showed up. Just a few minutes left. My palms were sweating, and the tomato residue on my forehead grew stickier. Declan sneered, his disdain undisguised. “Vera, where’s the person you mentioned?” “Everyone’s been waiting for half an hour. Shouldn’t you do something to make it up to us?” Adeline’s malice was blatant, “How about taking off the dress now? No one has seen your figure, and Vera’s body is quite good!” Declan and Nolan looked at me like hungry wolves, their eyes shining. I felt humiliated. Adeline wasn’t satisfied, taking the chance when all eyes were on me, she said, “And since Vera chased after Declan for so long, today Declan can watch you undress, as you wished.” Ear-piercing laughter erupted. Declan quickly distanced himself, “I don’t want to watch. Such filth, I feel dirty just looking.” “Besides, the one I like is Celeste.” Celeste hummed happily. Nolan, not to be outdone, saw that humiliating me would catch Celeste’s attention, and he started recording on his phone. “Sister, Adeline’s idea is quite good. Haven’t you always wanted everyone’s approval?” “Then take off the dress. Your figure and beauty will be praised!” He whistled along. I remembered when I was abandoned in a vacation villa, Nolan spent all his savings to get a helicopter to bring me home. To comfort me, he broke into our father’s study to accuse him of neglecting his daughter. But now, to please Celeste, he ignored my embarrassment, wanting to put me on a pedestal of shame for torment. Father Jasper couldn’t bear the farce anymore and scolded me sternly, “Vera, what are you doing? Haven’t you embarrassed us enough!” “Apologize to Celeste and everyone here, then leave immediately!” Nolan, seeing our father siding with them, became bolder. He urged everyone to take out their phones and point them at me, even starting a live stream. Declan’s voice echoed through the hall, “Come, come, Miss Vera is about to strip and apologize to everyone. Make sure you capture this moment!” Adeline yanked hard at my dress! I held on tightly. “It’s not budging, someone help!” Declan pulled a greasy old man up, “Here he comes, Vera’s favorite tycoon to help!” I resisted desperately. The old man’s breath got closer, and chaos erupted on stage. The guests below were horrified and made way. Just as I was about to lose strength, a powerful force yanked the old man away. A heavy punch landed on the old man’s face. While Declan was stunned, another punch hit his face. I took the chance to push Adeline away, falling backward into a warm embrace. I’m sorry, but it seems there is no specific Chinese text provided for translation. Could you please provide the text you would like translated? “I’m sorry, Vera, I’m here now. I shouldn’t have cut it so close.” Under the bright lights, his features appeared sharper and clearer. Tears blurred my vision. “Don’t cry. I’m here now. No one will bother you anymore.” Asher held me close, gently reassuring me, “Your clothes are dirty. Go put on that blue dress. I remember you like that one.” “Your hair is wet too. It must be uncomfortable. Let me help you fix it, okay?” I held back my tears and stood up. At this moment, Declan covered his face, angrily asking, “Who are you, some random guy? Do you even know what kind of event this is?” The old man who got hit recognized Asher and screamed in terror, “Mr. Asher!” “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to bully Ms. Vera. I was forced onto the stage!” Asher turned to them, his gentle expression instantly turning cold.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296504”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn

Grandma, a billionaire, was on the brink of death, so I donated a kidney to save her. But once she recovered, she humiliated me by throwing me into a pile of garbage. When Grandpa arrived, they were laughing and forcing me to eat trash from the street. Jasper coldly blocked Grandpa, saying, “He’s just a lowly beggar, not worth your time.” Grandpa slapped him, “Who do you think you are? Just a toy my grandson picked up, and you dare lay a hand on him?” The guests were shocked, exclaiming, “Oh my God! He’s the true heir of the Mason Family!” In my past life, I endured everything to please Sister and Grandma, but they ended up pushing me into the water, drowning me. Reborn, I stormed into the birthday banquet and kicked him down. “A beggar picked up from the trash dares to impersonate a noble Young Master?” The crowd was taken aback. Sister, in her high heels, shielded Jasper. “Declan, have you lost your mind? How dare you cause a scene in the Mason Family!” My fiancée knelt by Jasper, tenderly massaging his wrist with pity in her eyes. Sister immediately ordered the Bodyguards, “Are you all blind? Letting a beggar bully the Young Master!” A dozen Bodyguards swarmed, beating me mercilessly. Grandma swung her Cane at me relentlessly. I clutched my stomach in agony. Though the wound from donating my kidney had healed, the pain was still unbearable. I couldn’t believe that the Grandma I saved now wanted to beat me senseless for a beggar. “Dare to touch my precious grandson, and I’ll make you pay!” she shouted. Jasper pretended to hold Grandma back, “Grandma, don’t get so upset, it’s not good for your health!” Sister pointed at me, “Even a dog knows loyalty. How have we wronged you that you ruin Jasper’s birthday party?” “A filthy beggar who doesn’t know his place!” “The true Young Master of the Mason Family is clearly me, Declan…” Smack! Sister slapped me before I could finish. Jasper lowered his head, feigning innocence, “I know you want the Mason Family’s wealth, but you shouldn’t go against Grandma and Sister!” “We’ve raised you for so many years, we’ve fulfilled our duty. How can you treat them like this?” With Jasper’s restrained demeanor, the guests began to defend him. “How could you! Eating someone’s food and then attacking their Young Master!” “Truly despicable, a stinking beggar causing trouble in the Mason Family. The Young Master is too kind. Otherwise, throw him into the Hudson River!” No sooner had these words been spoken than a security guard approached to snatch the Jade Bracelet from my hand. I kicked him hard, sending him flying, and he lay on the ground wailing. Jasper quickly helped him up, glaring at me, “You, an imposter, are more arrogant than me, the Young Master, striking in public!” Hearing this, more people began to blame me. I laughed in disbelief, “You’re the Young Master? Then who am I?” Jasper shook his head helplessly, looking at Sister pitifully, “If he wants it, just give it to him.” Sister erupted in anger, “This is the Heirloom from Grandmother, how can it be given to a beggar! It’s meant for my real brother!” Chapter Two Real brother, she said it so self-righteously. She used to be the Sister who loved me the most. Even if I lost a strand of hair, she’d fire all the maids at home, wanting to give me the best of everything. Why did things change when Jasper came? A beggar picked up from a garbage dump, is he worth the Mason Family’s care? They gave him my identity, my fiancée, and in the end, even drowned me to make him the Mason Family’s heir. This time, I won’t make the same mistakes. “This is clearly something Grandmother left for me! How did it become Jasper’s because of your words?” “Aren’t you afraid Grandpa will blame you when he comes?” Grandpa had planned to retire abroad but couldn’t rest easy about me. He intended to officially hand over the Mason Family to me on my birthday. Once they found out, they tried to transfer all my shares to Jasper, leaving Grandpa unable to help me. Jasper’s Rowdy Friends were the first to defend him, “A beggar picked up and really thinks he’s the Young Master?” “This was always Jasper’s, who can say otherwise?” Jasper smiled proudly, “You should have told me what you wanted, instead of behaving so disgracefully. You don’t care, but the Mason Family does.” Sister quickly said, “Almost let a bad apple spoil the whole pot.” “Ignore him, today is the day the Mason Family announces the heir. Bring the share transfer documents.” In the next moment, a few Bodyguards grabbed my arms and dragged me aside. They’re actually going to give the Mason Family to Jasper, it’s insane! “That’s what Grandpa left for me!” “If you do this, just wait to be kicked out by Grandpa!” Sister hesitated for a moment, then signed her name heavily. “Grandpa said the Mason Family’s assets are for the Young Master, and Jasper is the Young Master!” Grandma banged the Cane loudly, “An ungrateful wretch, dreaming of the Mason Family’s wealth, not even worth a glance.” Jasper stood proudly behind Grandma, glaring at me, “Declan, stop making a fuss, or you’ll gain nothing but be kicked out of the Mason Family.” “Grandma, just consider it as if the Mason Family raised a dog. Toss it away if you must.” A dog raised by the Mason Family, that would donate a kidney for Grandma, what a joke. If I hadn’t saved her, she’d have met her end. The Business Elite present couldn’t stand it and spoke up. “See! A great kindness is like a great enemy! Never raise an ungrateful wretch.” “In the end, it’s all for money, making a scene, a stinking beggar, so shallow.” Grandma pointed her Cane and commanded, “You ruined my grandson’s birthday party. Kneel and kowtow to him three times, and we’ll let you go!” Jasper added fuel to the fire, “It’s okay Grandma, I can bear it.” Sister couldn’t stand Jasper being wronged, so she ordered the Bodyguards to press down on my shoulders, forcing me to kneel before Jasper. At this moment, Fiancée Sabrina walked to Jasper, intimately holding his arm, “You’re just too kind. What’s a few kowtows for such an ungrateful person?” “If you ask me, they should break his hands and feet!” Chapter Three I coldly watched this heartless woman and couldn’t help but scoff. I wondered who chased after me, clinging to me, caring for me, even declaring publicly they’d marry no one but me. If Grandpa hadn’t seen her genuine affection, he wouldn’t have chosen such a small-time fiancée for me. Now she’s helping them frame me. The way she looks at Jasper, so tenderly, it makes me nauseous. “You can’t even tell who your fiancée is. You’re truly hopeless!” Seeing my imposing manner and confident words, the crowd began to doubt. “Looking at his appearance and demeanor, he doesn’t seem like a beggar.” “And to cause such a scene at a birthday party, maybe he really has evidence, could he be the Mason Family’s true Young Master?” “He does look like the Young Master, whereas Jasper… it’s hard to say.” Hearing the crowd’s murmur, Jasper’s face turned green. Sister immediately took Jasper’s hand and went on stage. “The Mason Family has only this one Young Master, any others are imposters!” “Today, not only are we handing the Mason Family to Jasper, but we’ll also arrange his marriage, to stop such nonsense from happening again!” Grandma angrily hit my back with her Cane, “Such an ungrateful wretch! The Mason Family was blind to raise you!” The crowd began to criticize me. “Look how you’ve pushed them, they’re rushing into marriage, what a disgrace.” “The Mason Family at least fed you, didn’t let you pick trash, and you repay them like this, what a useless thing.” “Thick-skinned, heartless, eyeing someone else’s inheritance.” Someone nearby spat at me. Others followed suit, throwing whatever they had at me. A glass hit my head, causing blood to flow. Bodyguards pinned me down, forcing me to kneel. Jasper, emboldened, stepped in front of me and whispered, “You still think you’re the Mason Family’s Young Master?” “Now everyone stands by me, I’m the rightful heir. So what if Grandpa returns?” I trembled with anger, wanting to tear him apart. Jasper stepped back and said loudly, “The Mason Family won’t tolerate such nonsense. Did you think I was easy to bully?” A glass cup smashed on my head, and blood immediately started to flow. The bodyguards pinned my shoulders down, forcing me to kneel and making it impossible to move. Jasper approached me, whispering with a smirk, “You still think you’re the Mason Family’s heir, don’t you?” “Everyone’s on my side now. I’m the rightful heir of the Mason Family. Even if Grandpa comes back, what can he do?” I was trembling with anger, desperate to tear him apart right then and there. Jasper stepped back and deliberately shouted, “The Mason Family won’t tolerate troublemakers like you. You really think you can push me around?” In the next moment, he triumphantly poured a bottle of red wine over my head. The alcohol stung the wound on my forehead, causing excruciating pain. I couldn’t take it anymore. I broke free from the bodyguards’ grip, grabbed the wine bottle, and smashed it on the ground, pointing the jagged end at Jasper. “You really think you can steal what’s mine?” A bodyguard tried to grab me, but I swung the bottle and cut his arm. I had completely lost it. I walked up to my Sister, who was shaking with fear. “Tell me who I am! Who’s your real brother?” Then, I pointed the bottle at my Fiancée, who screamed continuously. “Say it! Tell me who I am!” The scene descended into chaos. Grandma glanced at the Cane in her hand, furious. “Get on with it, are you all idiots?” The bodyguards finally rushed at me, pinning me to the ground. Sister stepped forward and slapped me hard, saying with disdain, “Break his arms and legs! Dump him at a trash site!” Grandma declared loudly, “Our Mason Family has no room for a madman like him! From now on, he has nothing to do with the Mason Family!” “Cut his ties with the Mason Family!” The Lawyer approached with disownment papers for me to sign, but I struggled desperately. Seeing this, Jasper stomped on my hand, grinding it viciously. “If you won’t sign, then leave your handprint!” “Stop it, all of you!” Suddenly, dozens of black-clad bodyguards burst through the door, followed by a furious old man with white hair. I’m sorry, it looks like there isn’t any Chinese text provided for translation. Could you please share the text you would like me to translate? Chapter 4 Grandpa may be getting on in years, but he still moves with surprising speed, reaching me in just a few strides. Since my return, I feared being at a disadvantage, so I had already asked Grandpa to fly back early to support me.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296503”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn

My best friend’s brother has returned from abroad, and word is, he brought back a sister-in-law for her. The next day, my friend invited me over to meet her brother. When I realized who the man in front of me was, my legs felt weak. Because three years ago, I broke up with him. Fiona insisted I come to her house for dinner. Her brother had just come back from abroad, and she was adamant I meet him. When I arrived after work, the dim streetlight cast a long shadow of a man. You could tell he was handsome. But, unfortunately, not someone for me. Fiona mentioned her brother had returned with a sister-in-law. He had broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and was 185cm tall—quite striking. “Brother!” Fiona shouted, and the man turned around. I was stunned for a moment: “He’s your brother?!” “Fiona, I just remembered I have something urgent to do, I have to go.” I swallowed nervously, trying to leave in haste. Fiona pulled me back: “Adeline! Why are you leaving? My brother is treating us to a feast!” Before I could refuse, the man had already approached. I grew more anxious, unconsciously gripping Fiona’s hand tightly. Fiona patted my hand to reassure me: “My brother is intimidating, right? I’m quite scared of him myself, that’s why I wanted you to come with me.” No wonder she’s my best friend, a champion at setting me up for forty years. Fiona dragged me along, eagerly introducing me to her brother: “Brother, this is Adeline, my best friend! Treat her just like a real sister from now on.” “Adeline, this is my brother, Declan.” After saying this, she looked behind Declan a few times: “Where’s my sister-in-law?” Declan ignored Fiona’s question, chuckled a few times, and stared at me: “Real sister?” His words made the atmosphere slightly tense. Fiona laughed to ease the tension: “Brother, what’s with you? Adeline and I are so close, can’t she be your sister too? Besides, Adeline doesn’t even mind.” She nudged my shoulder: “Right, Adeline?” Please don’t involve me, my legs felt weak. I hastily nodded. Declan chuckled softly. “If being my sister doesn’t interest you, what would you prefer? To be Fiona’s sister-in-law?” he raised an eyebrow, his tone casual. But his words made my heart skip a beat. I couldn’t muster a reply. However, Fiona was straightforward: “Brother! Show some decency! Don’t I already have a sister-in-law? You player!” Declan clicked his tongue: “That makes me a player? Then some people must be players to the extreme.” I didn’t dare speak until the three of us got in the car. Declan was indeed good-looking, a classic kind of handsome. When you saw him, you couldn’t possibly find him unattractive. Our eyes met in the rearview mirror, I was startled and immediately closed my eyes. I heard him laugh softly. My face turned red. Declan lowered the car window, and Fiona asked him, puzzled, what he was doing. He simply said: “My sister’s face is flushed, opening the window to cool her down.” My face turned even redder. Fiona glanced at me and even praised him for being more considerate. A dozen minutes later, the car stopped at a private restaurant’s parking lot. Declan got out and opened the door for me, looking at me with a half-smile: “Watch your head, sis.” As luck would have it, I did bump my head, but Declan’s hand was there to cushion it. Fiona sighed seriously: “My sister-in-law must be amazing to have trained my brother to be like this, I should thank her profusely in the future.” Declan glanced back at me, his gaze carrying some deeper meaning. I quietly swallowed and whispered: “Fiona, that’s not necessary.”

Declan ordered a variety of dishes, leaving Fiona astonished. “Brother, why did you order everything that Adeline likes?” “Oh, really? I ordered according to your sister-in-law’s taste.” Declan lounged lazily in his chair, hands folded, exuding an indescribable nobility. My heart skipped a few beats. “Adeline, my sister-in-law’s taste is really similar to yours, you two might even become good friends.” When all the dishes were served, Declan’s phone rang. When I looked at him, his eyes were full of tenderness as he looked at the caller ID, and I was taken aback. “It’s your sister-in-law calling, I’ll take it outside.” Looking at the table full of dishes, I suddenly lost my appetite. So Declan really has a girlfriend, and her taste is really the same as mine. I silently scorned myself, what was I getting all worked up about earlier? “What’s on your mind, sis?” Declan raised an eyebrow, adding a piece of braised pork to my plate. He seemed to genuinely treat me as his sister, using that term naturally. The atmosphere was slightly awkward, especially since Fiona went to the bathroom. I picked out the braised pork from my plate: “Sorry, brother, I don’t like this anymore.” My hand trembled a bit, but I tried hard to suppress it. He just chuckled softly and didn’t respond. The atmosphere remained tense, and internally, I was calling out for Fiona. “Oh, I forgot your taste changes quickly, after all, it’s only been a few days, and you already like pretty boys.” Fortunately, Fiona pushed the door open and came back in. In front of my best friend, I pretended to be calm, acting like nothing happened. But Declan wouldn’t let it go. He clapped his hands and asked the waiter to change the dishes. Fiona hadn’t had a chance to eat much: “Brother, why change the dishes? These are delicious!” Declan looked at me with a cold expression. “Adeline said she doesn’t like them.” His voice was pleasant, especially when he called my full name. Soon, the table was filled with green vegetables. Declan was definitely doing it on purpose. “Brother, how can you eat so much green!” Fiona complained quietly. Declan replied with a completely unrelated comment: “You think it’s too much green too?” This meal was so uncomfortable for me. On the way back, as I looked at Declan’s profile, I remembered the first time I met him. In my sophomore year, I was dumped by my ex-boyfriend. It was raining that day, and I gave my only umbrella to my ex. He and his new girlfriend were using my umbrella, while I got soaked. He had pursued me for almost a year, and we were together for only a few months before he cheated. Later, I heard from others that he never stopped having girlfriends even when he was pursuing me. When you’re down, it seems like everything goes wrong. Getting wet was one thing, but I slipped on the wet ground. Feeling wronged, tears mixed with rain streaming down my face. The street was empty, so I just cried out loud. In the midst of my sorrow, suddenly there was an umbrella over my head. I looked up, and though my vision was blurry, it was unmistakably a handsome man, mature and steady. “Take it.” He handed me the umbrella, I was a bit stunned. He stood for a moment, then impatiently shoved the umbrella into my hand. Holding it, I felt like the umbrella was hotter than his fingers. It had the Rolls-Royce logo. He turned away into the rain. A moment later, he returned, silently picking me up in his arms. His voice was low and nice: “Didn’t you know your leg is hurt?” My body was stiff, and so was his. It was the first time my heart raced like that. I never thought I would find a sense of security in a man other than my dad. I’m not very daring, but the bravest thing I did was ask Declan for his contact info. Under the pretense of returning his umbrella, I invited him to a meal, and he treated me back. I felt bad and invited him again. He remembered my taste, even set aside a day to go shopping with me. He was gentle and thoughtful, caring for me in every way. It was thanks to Fiona that we finally broke through that barrier. She took me to a bar, and I got drunk. The next day, I woke up with Declan lying next to me. He said: “Adeline, come home with me.”

In my senior year, I was struggling with my thesis and worried about meeting Declan’s parents. But in the end, I never got the chance. I saw him in a restaurant, smiling at a woman, cutting steak for her, his every gesture filled with affection. I had already been through this once. I knew what it meant, I was cheated on again. To save face, I spent 200 bucks to hire an underclassman to pretend to be my boyfriend. That day I calmly broke up with him. I thought Declan would try to keep me. Turns out, he didn’t love me anymore. He was so calm, he didn’t even take my words seriously. He asked: “Adeline, what do you mean?” “It means nothing, I don’t love you anymore.” Why could he move on so quickly, and I couldn’t? In the end, Declan smiled faintly. “Adeline, you’re doing great.” After that, I didn’t see him for three years. —— “We’re here.” My memories were cut short, and I got out of the car with Fiona. How could Declan still have the nerve to be sarcastic with me? He was the one who betrayed me first! I didn’t expose him, already giving him enough face. But I was still a bit sad. Declan was the most intense light in my otherwise dull youth. “Adeline, why do you seem off? Did my brother steal your soul?” Fiona was excited: “It’s such a pity, if I didn’t have a sister-in-law, I would’ve set you two up.” “Did you know? My brother is so devoted, he’s been with my sister-in-law for over three years now.” In stark contrast to Fiona’s joy, my heart felt cold at that moment. I couldn’t quite describe the feeling. Was I mad at Declan for betraying me? Not really. Just a bit resentful. Seeing I was down, Fiona quickly arranged a gathering to cheer me up. I almost never attended such chaotic events. But thinking of Declan, I gritted my teeth and went. Fiona, being the little rich girl she is, gathered a room full of men. Some were up-and-coming celebs. These young boys kept calling me: “Sis.” Who could resist that? In the latter part, I got a bit tipsy and grabbed Fiona’s hand, asking what her sister-in-law was like. I can’t really put the feeling into words. Am I angry with Declan for betraying me? Not exactly. It’s more of a lingering resentment. Fiona noticed I wasn’t in the best of moods and immediately organized a get-together with some friends to lift my spirits. I almost never attend these chaotic gatherings. But thinking of Declan, I decided to grit my teeth and go. Fiona, true to her little rich girl style, had filled the room with guys. Some of them were even up-and-coming celebs. These young men kept calling me “sis.” Who could resist that? Later on, feeling a bit tipsy, I clung to Fiona’s hand and asked her what her sister-in-law was like. “Is your sister-in-law prettier than me?” “Does she have a better figure than me? A bigger chest?” Fiona shouted, “No! Definitely not!”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296502”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn

Declan returned from abroad, bringing back his first love. “Adeline, Fiona is pregnant with my child. I can only ask you to bear with this for now.” Overnight, I became the laughingstock of the circle. Late at night, my fiancé’s Uncle Milo held me tightly in his arms, his movements forceful. “Compared to that loser, who can make you happier?” “Adeline, don’t move. Declan is just outside the door. Do you want me to call him in?” The room was a mess. Milo pressed me against the cold window glass. His hot breath against my ear, enveloping me in his presence. “Please, don’t…” I pleaded softly, only to hear him scoff. “Don’t what? Stop?” He chuckled, pinning my wrists above my head with one hand. His actions grew more intense. “What do you want to ask me for?” Of course, I knew. “Uncle Milo, Fiona is three months pregnant. Declan and I have to cancel our engagement.” Declan’s voice came from outside the door. “Adeline’s design project will be handled by Fiona and me. It won’t affect the company.” My blood froze as I stared at the door. He had said Cora only needed help with her pregnancy and divorce. But now… Milo leisurely looked at me, “Did you hear that?” “He’s not only canceling your engagement but also taking your project to benefit Cora.” Milo narrowed his eyes and continued. “Be with me, Adeline. I’ll give you everything you want.” Saying this, he pushed forward with such force I almost fell to the ground. “Milo, don’t. We’ll be discovered.” Milo chuckled, “Wouldn’t it be perfect if we were? I’ll marry you, make you Declan’s Aunt Adeline.” I, always timid and cowardly. Silently reached out, wrapping my arms around Milo’s neck. He immediately sensed it, his eyes darkened as he bit my lips like a predator savoring its prey. Satisfied, he coldly said to the person outside, “I need to rest. Talk tomorrow.” The bell at my ankle chimed, making a crisp and pleasant sound. I cried the whole night. Milo tormented me fiercely, “Are you crying because of him or me?” I didn’t answer, which only spurred him into more madness. Until the sky began to lighten. He finally wiped away the tears from the corner of my eyes with tenderness. “Good girl, Adeline. I won’t let the alliance between our families fall through. You’re still the Sullivan Family’s daughter-in-law.” I looked at him in a daze. This man, indeed, knew what I was worried about. The Harper Family was weak. My engagement to Declan wasn’t just for love but for other purposes too. Milo’s fingers twirled my hair. “Your fiancé, from now on, is me.” I was beyond shocked. Anger and humiliation surged in my heart: “Milo, are you crazy?” Everyone in the circle knew Milo was a madman. Ruthless, with a strange personality. But I didn’t expect him to be this insane.

I didn’t go looking for Cora, but she came to me. She looked gentle and demure, no wonder Declan liked her. He probably thought I was too bright and flamboyant. “I heard Asher almost gave up his life to marry you back then.” I looked at her face, silent. When Declan pursued me, he was all high-profile and flamboyant, eager to let the world know he liked me. To get Mr. Sullivan to agree to our marriage. He jumped into an icy lake in winter to show his determination, injuring his little finger from the frostbite. He said it was a badge of love. Said that as long as his finger hurt, it would remind him to love me for a lifetime. “But in the end, he still chose me.” Cora raised her eyebrows, looking smug, “Our child is already three months old.” “Back then, we were too young to know what we wanted.” “Just like me, I left him and went abroad to marry someone else. Fortunately, in the end, we got back together…” She glanced at me as she spoke. Her eyes were full of smiles. My heart felt like it was being pricked by thousands of needles. It started to hurt sharply, suffocatingly. When Declan brought Cora back that day. He once vowed in front of me, “It wasn’t my will to be with her.” “If she weren’t pregnant, I would’ve kicked her out long ago.” Later, I found out. During his time in the States, he was always entangled with Cora. They indulged themselves in my bridal chamber, with Cora gasping in his arms, playfully. “Asher, I can’t take it anymore.” Declan teased her, “If it weren’t for you seducing…” That’s when I realized. I was the fool kept in the dark the whole time. Under pressure, Declan promised me. “Adeline, once Fiona gives birth, I’ll send her away. Aren’t you afraid of getting out of shape from pregnancy?” “Why don’t you raise Cora’s child?” I stayed silent. But when Cora heard Declan’s idea, she accidentally fell. Everyone said I couldn’t tolerate her. Declan also wanted to break off our engagement without a word. “Adeline Harper, you malicious woman!” … Before Cora left, she taunted. “Adeline Harper, you can’t beat me. Asher doesn’t love you. He loves me now.” I pretended to stay composed and ignored her. But the pain in my heart was so intense, it made sweat bead on my forehead. I lay at home for two days. When I woke up, I decided to talk things over with Declan. Our engagement involved both families’ reputation.

Declan took Cora to “The Nightfall.” It’s Milo’s private establishment. No matter who you are, you need a reservation to enter. I had no choice but to face Milo. “So, now you remember me?” He lounged lazily on the sofa, swirling the red wine in his hand. Milo was exceptionally handsome. Even with such an annoying expression on his face, he still looked good. I sulked and didn’t answer. Seeing my silence, he got a bit annoyed. “What do you want?” “To go to ‘The Nightfall’ to find Declan.” Upon hearing this, Milo downed his wine in one go. He grabbed my neck, pulling me into his embrace. His cool lips carried the scent of wine. Overwhelming me. His fiery kiss was like a flame, forcefully igniting me. “Adeline Harper, you still dare think of him? Did you forget what you promised me when you slept with me?!” My heart trembled, my cheeks instantly burning. The day Declan proposed breaking off the engagement, I went to a bar to drink away my sorrows and was drugged. In my stupor, I mistook Milo for Declan and slept with him. He was furious then. “Adeline Harper, look carefully. I’m not Declan.” I felt so awful, I couldn’t care less. I directly pounced on him. Swallowing all his words, I clung to him, wanting more several times over. Until the next morning. Seeing his face, I was suddenly aware. Oh my god, I actually slept with my fiancé’s Uncle Milo. He rested against the bed, half-dressed. “What, scared now that it’s over?” Swallowing hard, I shook my head, then fiercely nodded. “I warn you, I won’t be the third wheel. Break up with Declan tomorrow, got it?” I agreed like a pecking chick. Then turned and ran. Now, he was looking at me with a leisurely gaze. His narrow, beautiful eyes carried a smile not reaching the bottom, “Running after sleeping with someone, you’re something else.”

Milo kept his word. That night, he took me to ‘The Nightfall’s masquerade party. I wore a mask and a deep red gown, standing in the corner. No one recognized me. But I recognized Declan and Cora. Milo stood by my side, noticing my gaze, he spoke through gritted teeth, “What? Feeling sad?” I shook my head. “Declan, that bastard, isn’t worth my sadness.” “So obedient?” Milo leaned down, his breath hot against my ear. “Then I should reward you.” Saying this, he lowered his head and kissed my lips, his tongue prying open my teeth, plundering freely. I was kissed until my head spun, my whole body going limp in his arms. How was this rewarding me? It was clearly rewarding himself. Until Declan walked over, “Uncle?” Milo released me, and I clung to him, half my face hiding in his neck, breathing lightly. “So boring, even with a mask you can recognize me?” Milo laughed. At six-foot-three, he was hard not to recognize. Cora looked me up and down, her gaze unfriendly: “And who is this?” Milo ignored her. But Cora continued, “Uncle Milo, aren’t you afraid this woman might have ulterior motives? What if she’s trying to get into your bed to scam you?” I was speechless; this manipulative woman should just shut up if she can’t speak properly. Milo chuckled, his fingers brushing the back of my neck: “I actually hope she wants to get into my bed.” Hearing this, everyone turned to look at me. “How dull, can you still recognize me even with a mask on?” Milo chuckled. Standing at six foot three, he’s hard to miss. Cora gave me a scrutinizing look. “And who might this be?” Milo dismissed her with a smirk. But Cora pressed on, “Uncle Milo, aren’t you concerned something might be off about this woman? What if she’s just trying to climb into your bed and swindle you?” I was left speechless. This manipulative woman should just keep quiet if she can’t say anything sensible. Milo let out a mocking laugh, his fingers lightly touching the back of my neck. “I actually hope she’s interested in getting into my bed.” Upon hearing this, everyone turned to look at me. Who hasn’t heard of the notorious heir of the Sullivan Family, known for his ruthless demeanor and lack of interest in women? Who could possibly make him want someone to share his bed? Cora forced an awkward smile. “Which family’s lady is Uncle Milo’s companion? Do I know her?” Milo raised an eyebrow, “You’re not worthy of knowing.” Cora’s expression turned sour as she glanced at Declan, “Asher, look at your uncle…” Declan, merely a powerless playboy within the Sullivan Family, took Cora’s hand and kissed it gently. “Uncle Milo’s always been like this, don’t take it to heart.” Watching Declan’s gentle gesture stirred a twinge of jealousy in me. So, he could be tender too. Noticing my gaze, Milo suddenly pinched my waist and bit softly on my neck. I let out a surprised yelp.

Declan stared at my partially hidden face, his eyes growing sharper. “That voice…” He murmured, reaching to remove my mask. Instinctively, I stepped back, my heart racing with countless thoughts flashing through my mind. Milo grabbed Declan’s wrist with such force that his knuckles turned white. “Rude.” The word was as cold as ice. Declan struggled in disbelief, but he couldn’t move. “Uncle, who is she?” Milo raised an eyebrow and replied with a hint of mischief, “Of course, she’s your Aunt Adeline.” Declan’s face turned pale, hesitating to speak. An indescribable feeling spread within him. The woman in Uncle Milo’s arms felt eerily familiar. The answer hovered on the tip of his tongue. But he dared not believe it. … Milo released him and instead held my hand, gently pressing it to his lips. The gesture was intensely intimate. My face flushed, and I tried to pull away, but he playfully bit my finger. “Don’t hide.” There was laughter in his eyes, clearly intentional. “Uncle Milo, is your date someone I know?” Declan asked again, unwilling to give up. Milo raised an eyebrow, “Perhaps.” I stiffened slightly, looking at Milo with pleading eyes. This man always had an unpredictable nature, and revealing my identity at a time like this… What of the Harper Family’s reputation? Please don’t… Milo slightly curled his lips, leaning closer to me, “Call me ‘husband,’ and I’ll help you.” This guy was truly wicked. The atmosphere felt tense, and Milo suddenly chuckled softly. “Let’s go, it’s dreadfully boring here.” I followed him, letting him lead me through the crowd. Behind us was Declan’s gaze, intense enough to burn right through me. 6 Milo took me to the suite on the top floor of “The Nightfall.” In the center of the room was a massive round bed, next to a floor-to-ceiling window offering a view of the entire cityscape of Kyoto. “What’s the matter? Are you scared?” Milo raised an eyebrow, amusement dancing in his eyes. I quietly replied, “No.” Milo leisurely unfastened his tie, revealing a striking collarbone. “Where did the courage to bring me to ‘The Nightfall’ go?” “I just wanted to clear things up with Declan.” I turned my face away. “Is that so?” Milo walked towards me. “I’m sorry then, that you couldn’t clear things up.” He feigned regret with a slight pout. Suddenly, he bit my lip fiercely. “Liar, you clearly can’t forget.” I hadn’t expected him to hold such a grudge. “The ruthless heir is actually jealous?” I teased him with a smile. Not afraid at all. “Yes, jealous.” … Milo emerged from the shower, bare-chested. Water droplets trickled down his toned body, accentuating his perfect muscles. Noticing my gaze, he smirked lightly. “Seen enough?” I turned to leave, but he grabbed my wrist, pulling me into his embrace. “You said you liked it, why not touch?” Milo guided my hand to his strong chest. “I…” I swallowed hard. Was I really supposed to touch? Before I could respond, Milo leaned down to kiss me. He pressed me against the wall, his hands firmly on my waist, his breath hot. “Compared to that loser, who makes you happier?” I closed my eyes, not wanting to answer. Milo’s kisses traveled from my lips to my ear, “Not answering? Fine, I’ll just have to show you.” His lips trailed down my neck. My legs went weak, barely able to stand. “Aren’t I much better than him? I’m bigger…” I hurriedly covered his mouth, “Stop it!” Milo looked at me, amused, and suddenly scooped me up, carrying me to the bed. Water droplets from his hair dripped onto my face. “Adeline, you can’t escape.” He kissed me forcefully, but then there was a loud knocking on the door. “Adeline Harper, I know you’re in there.” I’m sorry, but it seems there’s no actual Chinese text provided for translation. Could you please provide the text you’d like translated? 7. The noise outside suddenly grew louder, mixed with the slurred speech of someone drunk. It was Declan. I tensed up. How did he find this place?

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296501”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn

Husband’s childhood friend has an unusual obsession: she enjoys raising other people’s sons. When my son Asher was just a month old, crying every night, she would sleep on the floor of my bedroom, soothing him night after night. By the time Asher was three months, he always needed to be held. She was exhausted, her muscles strained, yet she never put him down. When Asher turned one and called out “Mom,” she broke down in my husband’s arms: “That’s my son, my life. It hurts to hear him call me mom. Do you know how hard this is for me?” I witnessed it all but said nothing. Because I already knew. My husband, behind my back, had used my body to carry their child. They waited for him to grow up, succeed, and then planned to claim him as their own. And planned to leave me with nothing. But when they came to claim him, I revealed a paternity test. “Nora, can you call Asher out? I brought him a toy car from abroad.” Ever since I gave birth to Asher, my husband’s childhood friend frequently visited our home. She always brought expensive gifts. For Asher’s first month, she spent a fortune on a gold necklace for him. She even bought an apartment in our neighborhood to be close to Asher and secretly meet with my husband. I pretended not to know, as usual, and called my son out. Asher was thrilled to see the new toy. But he didn’t grab it immediately. Instead, he looked at me eagerly, waiting for my nod before politely thanking her, “Thank you, godmother.” Lydia was not pleased. She joked, “Asher, who treats you better, your godmother or your mom?” Asher didn’t hesitate, “Mom is better.” Lydia’s face turned pale, and she pinched my husband’s hand hard. My husband quickly picked up Asher and said to me, “Nora, Lydia and I will take the child out to play. You should rest at home.” His other hand comfortingly wrapped around Lydia’s shoulder, as if telling her to bear with it. I didn’t stop them, just smiled and reminded them, “Be safe.” The three of them turned and left, holding Asher between them, looking like a family of three. I watched their backs, recalling four years ago. During a company health check, I fell unconscious for a day after a gastroscopy. They said it was due to an overdose of anesthesia. Soon after, I found out I was pregnant. But this child had nothing to do with me. He was my husband and Lydia’s IVF child. That’s when I overheard that Finn married me not out of love. He didn’t want Lydia to suffer the pains of childbirth, so I was to surrogate for them. Afraid Asher would suffer in my womb, Lydia bought a lot of supplements from the start of my pregnancy. I accepted them all without hesitation. I also demanded an elective C-section, the best postpartum care, and three nannies. To appease me, Finn and Lydia spent hundreds of thousands by the time Asher was a month old. After confinement, Lydia replaced the nanny, staying until Asher could crawl before reluctantly leaving. I wasn’t angry; I actually welcomed her. Who wouldn’t like someone who gives you money and watches your kid for free? And since I didn’t have to exert effort, I returned to work right after my maternity leave. Colleagues complimented my glow, saying I looked younger than before pregnancy. I remained tight-lipped, only saying my husband was considerate. That evening, Finn returned with Asher, and Lydia reluctantly said her goodbyes at the door. “Asher, godmother is leaving. If you miss me, come downstairs to play.” Being young, Asher grew fond of her over the afternoon. Holding the Haagen-Dazs ice cream Lydia bought, he sweetly kissed her cheek, “Goodnight godmother, Asher likes you best.” Lydia’s love brimmed over at his words, and my husband was all smiles. I chuckled to myself. I’m also starting to like your godmother. Though it’s more like fondness for a perfect nanny. I turned back to my room, continuing with my project proposal. Chapter Two By the time I was promoted to director, Asher had started school. Seeing me busy with work, Lydia offered to quit her job and handle Asher’s drop-offs and pick-ups. She pampered Asher daily. If he scraped his knee playing soccer, she’d make a fuss and rush him to the hospital. This went on for years. On Asher’s 12th birthday, Lydia asked him what wish he had, promising to make it come true. Asher glanced at me and said, “Godmother, I want to go to Cambridge.” My heart ached. Had I not married Finn early, I too had a chance to go to Cambridge. I had only casually mentioned it to Asher, and he remembered. Lydia was overjoyed, “My son is ambitious. Godmother will send you to the best international school. With Asher’s intelligence and diligence, you’ll surely get into Cambridge.” She then gave my husband a meaningful look, “One day, your dad’s business will be yours to inherit.” I was intrigued. Inherit his dad’s business? Finn’s company now makes less than three million annually. He squanders his eight-figure savings partying with Lydia. This money, I’ll help him plan well. The next day, I brought out the admission brochure for the best international high school in the capital. “Honey, Lydia, this is the school Asher chose. There are 10 spots annually for direct admission to Oxford and Cambridge. But since we’re not local, there’s a 5-million admission fee. Should we send Asher?” Lydia was thrilled, “Direct entry to Cambridge?! Five million is nothing, worth every penny!” She was ready to sell her apartment, “Selling my place, I can get at least three million.” Finn stopped her, wrapping his arm around her shoulder affectionately, “I know you love Asher, you’ve given so much. You don’t work, you shouldn’t pay. I’ll handle it.” He even guilt-tripped, “Son, you mustn’t be ungrateful to your godmother.” Asher nodded sensibly. I internally laughed, then displayed a worried expression, “But I heard class placement depends on asset proof. If we spend so much and get a bad class, won’t it affect his studies?” Finn assured confidently, “Asher will be in the best. I’ll prepare the materials tomorrow.” Before bed, I even saw them encouraging each other on Snapchat. Tough days now don’t matter, once Asher is successful, finding a million-dollar job won’t be hard. Once Asher graduates, they’ll reveal themselves, and the three will immigrate to the UK, counting money at home. As for me, losing my son and home, I’d have nowhere to cry. Lydia’s hatred for me nearly spilled from the screen, “Asher’s heart is with that woman! Competing with me for my son? Is she better for Asher than me?! Just wait, I’ll see how she begs me later.” I thought, just wait. Who begs whom remains to be seen. Finn acted swiftly, transferring all assets to Asher, including real estate and stocks. He even sold his company, using cash to buy properties, acquiring many buildings and shops. When he handed me the asset documents, I found an extra ten million. Not sure where he borrowed it from. The day we sent Asher to the capital for school, Lydia clung to Asher at the airport, “Asher, grow up soon. Godmother has a surprise for you.” Seeing their touching scene, I couldn’t help but anticipate. A surprise? What surprise? Could it be better than the one I prepared for you? Chapter Three Asher did well, getting into Cambridge. For years, Lydia acted more eager than me. When Asher studied abroad, she insisted on following. Asher often complained to me about Lydia’s over-attentiveness. With her care, I had more time for my career. I started a business, surpassing Finn’s previous company, with an annual turnover over a billion. During Asher’s breaks, I brought him to the company to familiarize him with operations, preparing him for future responsibilities. Finn and Lydia were pleased. Secretly mocking me for handing over my assets to their biological son. Who would have thought, a year after Asher went abroad, he had a car accident, injuring his eyes. He was left blind. The doctor said corneas wouldn’t be found soon, advising us to wait. I was frantic, booking the earliest flight, cursing Lydia inwardly. Had she not insisted on racing with Asher, he wouldn’t have faced this tragedy. But when Finn and I arrived, we found Asher at home, and Lydia’s eyes wrapped in thick bandages. I was speechless with shock. Finn was distraught, trembling, hugging her despite my presence, “You gave your corneas?! How could you be so foolish!” The surgery was at a black clinic. One misstep and both Lydia and my son could have died. I was terrified, “Are you crazy?! Asher was lucky to be fine!” But Lydia seemed genuinely crazed. Repeatedly asking who was the best for Asher, who deserved to be his mother. Asher was scared senseless by her mania. A sedative finally calmed the situation. Years later, Asher graduated, getting into Harvard for his PhD. Finn held a graduation party for him. At the peak of the ceremony, Lydia barged in. Blind, in a wheelchair pushed by Finn’s mother, she cried before Asher. “Asher, I’m your biological mother. I’ve sacrificed so much for you. You can’t not acknowledge me!” Lydia appeared to have truly lost her mind. She repeatedly demanded to know who was best for Asher and who truly deserved to be his mother. Asher was paralyzed with fear by her frenzied behavior. Ultimately, they had to administer a sedative to calm her. Years later, Asher graduated and was accepted into a PhD program at Harvard. Finn organized a special graduation party for him. At the ceremony’s most anticipated moment, Lydia barged in. She was blind, sitting in a wheelchair pushed by Finn’s Mother, weeping as she approached Asher. “Asher, I’m your biological mother. I’ve sacrificed so much for you. You can’t ignore me!” Finn quickly stood up to confirm, “Asher, it’s true. Your Aunt Lydia is your real mother.” After he spoke, the room fell into a stunned silence. “What is happening? How can a child someone carried for nine months be hers?” “Exactly, a woman sacrifices so much to have a baby, and she just claims it’s hers? How shameless.” “What’s the story here? Did Finn cheat? Poor Nora.” I looked at Lydia, who once loved wearing Louis Vuitton and sipping coffee outside the company. Now, she looked pitiful, drab, and in a wheelchair. I smiled slightly, “You can’t just say that. Everyone knows I was the one pregnant with Asher. I still have the stretch marks to prove it. How can you claim Asher is your child?” Lydia, clearly not in a stable mental state, smugly declared, “Do you remember when you were unconscious in the hospital? That’s when they transferred the embryo from me to you.” I remained calm and continued to ask, “Why did you do it? You can have children. Why make someone else have your baby?” “Childbirth is so painful, and it makes you ugly. You get unsightly stretch marks. I wanted to avoid all that. I told Finn, and he said I didn’t have to give birth. Once you had the baby and raised him, they’d push you aside, and I’d take him back. After all, I’m his real mom by blood!” When she finished, the room erupted with shock. “This is unbelievable! She’s awful, using someone else’s body to bear her child.” “No wonder she’s so good to Asher. He’s her son after all!” “Finn is despicable, using someone like that.” Lydia added, “To be honest, I was the one who made Finn marry you. Otherwise, you wouldn’t even have been qualified to enter the Finn family!” With that, Lydia lifted her chin arrogantly. I couldn’t help but smile. “But… I have a DNA test proving Asher is my biological son!” I’m sorry, but it looks like the text you wanted translated is missing. Could you please provide the specific Chinese text for translation? Chapter 4 I blinked, then gestured to draw attention. The Paternity Test report for Asher and me appeared on the large screen in the venue. Everyone present leaned forward, eyes wide, scrutinizing the test results.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296500”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn

James’s first love was diagnosed with a terminal illness and didn’t have much time left. Just as we were about to board a plane for a family vacation, James received the news and immediately abandoned his family, leaving them with me while he rushed to be by his ex’s side. Furious, I suggested we break up. He retorted, “She’s dying. Is it too much to ask that I help her complete her bucket list?” Later, after fulfilling his ex’s last wishes, he knocked on my door and asked if I was still angry. The little munchkin behind me mimicked my response in a cute voice: “Go cool off somewhere else!” James had always been attentive to detail, while I tended to be more carefree. During our three-year relationship, he pampered me like a child. He remembered my menstrual cycle, all my food allergies, would warm my cold feet on his thighs when we slept in winter, and in summer, he’d drowsily cover me with a blanket in the middle of the night to prevent me from catching a chill. Our friends, seeing how he’d hold my hand even when crossing the street, urged us to get married and have kids soon, telling us to stop showing off and experience the hardships of married life. James would laugh and pull me close. “Even if we get married and have kids, Sophia won’t suffer one bit. We’ll book the best private hospital and the best postpartum care center.” During a long weekend, James wanted to introduce me to his family and had arranged an international family trip. They say that traveling together before marriage is the best test for a relationship. All flaws are magnified during a trip, and you’ll know if you can make it work after just one try. I was even more nervous about being tested along with his whole family. But James assured me that I didn’t need to worry about anything, just focus on looking beautiful, and he would take care of everything else. Only then did I feel at ease. The night before our departure, he tossed and turned, unable to sleep. I thought he was worried about overlooking something in the arrangements, so I gently patted him, but he said nothing, just let out a long sigh. At the airport, after meeting up with all his family members, he still seemed distracted, checking his phone every few minutes. James’s sister and brother-in-law had already gone through the boarding gate with their little daughter. I tugged on James’s sleeve, signaling him to show our tickets. Instead, he pulled me aside. “I’m sorry, Sophia. I can’t go. Please take care of my family for me.” Even as his running figure disappeared from view, I couldn’t process what had just happened. For the past three years, no matter when I messaged James, he always replied instantly. But this time, he didn’t answer my calls or respond to my messages. He didn’t even offer a proper explanation. What was going on? I was so angry that tears welled up in my eyes. “Ma’am, the boarding gate is about to close. Please board quickly.” This was James’s parents’ first trip abroad, and his sister had a three-year-old child with her. I couldn’t imagine how panicked this family would be in a foreign country, so I had no choice but to go ahead and board. As I walked across the jet bridge, my phone buzzed. I thought it was James, but when I opened it, I saw it was a message from my best friend, Olivia. “Did you know James’s first love, Nora, is back in the country? I heard she has a terminal illness and came back for treatment.” “Hey, I’m just gossiping with you. James is so good to you, whether she’s back or not shouldn’t affect your relationship.” Reading these lines, I took a deep breath, my hand trembling slightly. Thinking back on James’s recent strange behavior, everything suddenly made sense. My boyfriend, who had always showered me with affection, had abandoned his entire family and left them with me, all for his first love. James, who was usually so meticulous in his interactions with others, had done something so outrageous. I couldn’t help but steady myself against the nearby handrail, suddenly feeling dizzy. Once on the plane, faced with James’s waiting family, I hurriedly made up an excuse, saying James had an urgent matter at work. His mother seemed displeased. “Sophia, dear, why didn’t you try to persuade our James to stay? It’s a holiday, and we finally got to go on a trip together. He works too hard.” “If James isn’t going, what’s the point of us going?” I was taken aback. James probably couldn’t face me, not even offering an explanation, let alone giving me a chance to persuade him. The cabin door had already closed, and nearby passengers, hearing their conversation, began to whisper worriedly, concerned it might delay the takeoff. “When we finally get to go on a trip, we should try to overcome any obstacles and enjoy ourselves as much as possible.” I said this to James’s mother, but I was also saying it to myself.

Back in my seat, I couldn’t help but tear up. All of James’s past kindnesses now seemed distorted, unable to withstand scrutiny. Faced with his entire family, I still had to make excuses for him and comfort them. What sin had I committed to deserve such torment? “Miss, do you know the passenger who was supposed to sit next to you? They checked in but didn’t board. Our plane is about to take off…” A pleasant male voice sounded beside me. I looked up with teary eyes at him, suddenly feeling emotionally overwhelmed. “He… left.” The flight attendant panicked and hurriedly offered me tissues. “Left?” “Yes, he… just left.” My anger, grievance, and heartache completely overflowed at that moment. “I’m… so sorry for your loss. If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to ask.” The flight attendant looked at me with sympathy and surprise. Only then did I realize how ugly my crying must have been, leading him to misunderstand the situation entirely. The flight attendant was exceptionally attentive to us throughout the flight, giving James’s father an extra meal and even gifting James’s little niece with an airline mascot toy. As we were disembarking, I wanted to thank the flight attendant, but seeing him coldly refuse a female passenger who asked for a photo with him, I just quietly followed the crowd off the plane. I might as well consider James dead. Thinking this way, I actually felt a bit better.

Leading this big family through immigration, with the elderly complaining about the long wait and the little one crying from hunger, was overwhelming. All the things James said I wouldn’t need to worry about now fell on my shoulders, leaving me feeling utterly helpless with nowhere to vent my frustrations. When I received Olivia’s call, my mind was in a fog. “Sophia, why did it take you so long to answer? Is James with you? Have you seen Nora’s Instagram post?” “That person in the photo looks a lot like James!” Urged by Olivia, I hung up and checked Nora’s Instagram post. In the photo, there was a stark white hospital room with flowers and a card on the table. In the blurred background was a figure I knew all too well. Nora’s caption read: “The doctor asked what regrets I had in life. I made a long bucket list. But when I see the moonlight on your brow, with you by my side, what regrets could I possibly have?” In the comments, Nora’s readers expressed concern about her condition. Some began to speculate about Nora’s love life, guessing who the person in the photo might be. I sent Olivia a message. “I’ve seen the photo. It’s probably my soon-to-be ex-boyfriend, James.” We had once promised each other that even if we argued, it wouldn’t last more than a day. We would communicate clearly about any issues and never resort to the silent treatment. But in the days since we left, James hadn’t contacted me at all. James wasn’t answering his parents’ calls either, only sending them brief messages saying he was busy with work and would explain everything when he got back. His uncle and aunt were worried but didn’t want to say much. His sister pulled me aside. “Sophia, tell me the truth. What’s really going on between you and James? Did you two have a fight?” “James went to the hospital to take care of Nora.” “What? They broke up years ago! This is ridiculous!” Right in front of me, his sister dialed James’s number, but after a few rings, the call was disconnected. I gave a bitter smile. Perhaps he was also feeling guilty and couldn’t face his family’s questions. Ever since I started thinking of James as my deceased ex-boyfriend, I felt a touch of pity when looking at his family members. It wasn’t until we returned home and I led the whole family out of the arrivals area with their luggage that I saw James again.

It turns out that when people feel guilty, they can’t look you in the eye. From the moment I first saw James until he sent everyone home, he kept avoiding my gaze. By the time the car stopped in the underground parking of our building, it was already 11 PM. “Give me an explanation, right here. I don’t want to go home to argue, I have work tomorrow.” On the flight back, I had already thought of various reasons for him, but I still wanted to hear it from his own mouth. “Nora is back. She has late-stage cancer, the doctors say she doesn’t have much time left…” “Hmm, and then?” James turned his head to look at me, probably not understanding why my response was so cold. “She has no family or close friends here. I’m the only familiar person she has in the country, so she asked if I could go to the hospital to keep her company. I really couldn’t refuse… You know, I owe her too much.” “I know I didn’t handle this well, and I’m sorry you had to suffer through the trip. But I promise, there’s nothing between us. It’s not what you think.” I opened the car’s dashcam records, only to find that the footage from the past few days had been completely deleted. “I wasn’t thinking anything about you two, but James, what exactly are you feeling guilty about?” “I just didn’t want you to get angry, but I swear, I didn’t do anything inappropriate. You should trust me.” Suddenly, I realized that our past tenderness had blinded me, making me completely unaware of the huge difference between James and me in our views on relationships. He felt that as long as he didn’t do anything substantially out of line, he had nothing to be ashamed of in our relationship. But what I wanted was undivided attention in a relationship. I stared at that face, the face I once adored, now feeling utterly unfamiliar. “James, I’ve been thinking about this the whole way back. Let’s break up.” “Sophia, how can you be so cold? Nora is dying. Is it too much to ask to help her fulfill her last wishes? Do we really have to break up over this?” “If marrying you was her dying wish, would you agree to that too?” James wanted to say something but couldn’t get the words out. It seemed James didn’t have a clear line in his mind. He didn’t know what he needed to stand firm on for the sake of our relationship. “Find somewhere else to stay tonight. I’ll move out tomorrow.” I suddenly felt so exhausted, not wanting to argue for even one more minute.

James was a local, always living a comfortable, well-off life. I came here for college and stayed for work, only managing to buy a small apartment after working for a few years. After moving in with James, I had planned to sell my small place so we could buy a bigger apartment together. Fortunately, due to the poor market conditions, the apartment hadn’t sold. Now I still had a place to return to. As I took my clothes out of the boxes and hung them back in the closet one by one, the past few years felt like a dream. Before I could catch my breath, my Instagram blew up with messages from strangers hurling insults at me. It took me a while to piece together what was happening. Nora’s new book had been released, and in it, she had written a heart-wrenching account of her relationship with James. When they first fell in love, their passion was intense and all-consuming. The explicit words in the book left little to the imagination, making readers blush. The book claimed that even after Nora went abroad, their feelings hadn’t faded. Every brief encounter was worth more than countless ordinary moments. And it all came to an abrupt end because of my appearance. In the book, I was portrayed as someone who took advantage of the situation and would stop at nothing. All her deep, enduring love couldn’t compete with my shameless seduction. Although she didn’t use real names in the book and repeatedly emphasized that it was all fiction, her eager fans still managed to find my Instagram account through the deliberate hints scattered throughout the text and began their barrage of insults. What chilled me even more was that her book mentioned several times when she returned to the country to see James, which I calculated had all happened after James and I got together. “When he waited for me, he stood under the kapok tree at the street corner. We embraced in the wind, melting in a moment of passion. In that instant, I still loved him.” “Stir-fried green peppers with pork, spicy pig blood, ginger-spiced chicken feet – we drank two dozen ice-cold beers at a street stall. His lips were swollen from the spice, and I joked that this time it wasn’t my doing.” I believe these were all true. The cities mentioned in the book perfectly matched the places where James had gone on business trips over the past few years. When James pursued me, he and Nora had already been broken up for years. But now, in her book, she deliberately portrayed me as the one who broke them apart. As the situation escalated, various strangers claiming to be former colleagues and classmates I didn’t recognize emerged online. They fabricated one story after another, painting me as someone who bullied classmates, seduced teachers, and flirted with clients, sparking wave after wave of verbal abuse. Some even went as far as collecting this information, along with various vulgar images, compiling it into a 36-page document, and sending it to everyone in my company’s email list, urging my boss to fire me for my moral depravity. I was about to confront James when he called. “Sophia, are you still angry? Why did you move all your things out?” Laughable. Now I wasn’t just angry, I was on the verge of exploding. “Tell Nora to explain what’s going on with her book. I’m being cyberbullied. If she doesn’t clear things up, she can expect to hear from my lawyer.” He paused for three seconds, then spoke slowly. “Calm down, Sophia. You know how that circle works. Sometimes they need to write something sensational to get readers. The book clearly states it’s all fiction. Don’t take it to heart.” “So, you knew what she wrote in the book all along? Did you approve of her smearing me?” “She said her fans all know it’s fiction, and you know she needs a lot of money for her treatment right now. All the money from this book is for saving her life.” “There are many ways to save her life. Dragging my name through the mud isn’t the only option. James, if I don’t see an explanation tomorrow, she can expect to receive a lawyer’s letter.” “Do you really have to make such a big deal out of this? Sophia, you’ve changed.” “Did you go to see her behind my back, James?” “Let me explain…” I hung up the phone and threw it on the couch, not wanting to hear another word of excuses. Three years of relationship crumbled in an instant. I could no longer distinguish what was true or false in our past sweetness. In my world, James was already dead.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296499”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn

My daughter’s ship suddenly hit a reef and began to sink during her winter school trip. My husband William is the most outstanding lifeguard in the Blue Ocean Rescue Team. But I didn’t inform him about the critical situation. Instead, I drove straight to the rescue team’s headquarters. In my previous life, William and his teammates only flew out to save our daughter after I begged him desperately. But because he was busy rescuing our daughter, he couldn’t make it in time when his ex-girlfriend Lucy’s house caught fire. Lucy died in that accident. Overwhelmed with guilt, William buried himself in work and didn’t come home for a month. Until one weekend, he suddenly returned and suggested taking us on a picnic. Who would have thought he’d drugged our drinks? He took us to Lucy’s grave, poured gasoline on me, and roared with bloodshot eyes. “Lucy died because of you! I must give her an explanation. If you two hadn’t conspired to send me away that day, she wouldn’t have suffered so much before dying!” Then he lit the lighter. When I came to my senses, I found myself back on the day of my daughter’s accident. Only this time, no one was going to stop him from saving his ex-girlfriend. But why did he come back crying and begging for my forgiveness in the end?

“Rachel, even though you’re William’s wife, we don’t have any extra equipment for rescue operations now,” said Kevin, William’s colleague and the Blue Ocean Rescue Team’s duty dispatcher, as he held my sleeve. Due to interference with mobile phone signals at sea, my daughter contacted me through the emergency walkie-talkie I had slipped into her backpack that morning after the ship encountered danger. Unable to locate the exact position, calling the police was useless. After being reborn, I immediately ran five red lights to finally reach the rescue team headquarters. But after explaining the situation, he blocked us outside the door. My daughter kept crying on the other end of the walkie-talkie. At this moment, the children, including my daughter, must be terrified. My father, hearing the crying, was on the verge of a heart attack. He pointed at the helicopter not far away. “How is that possible? There’s still a helicopter right there. Young man, hurry up and go find the children!” Kevin scratched his head and sighed, “Old man, I understand how you feel, but that helicopter can’t be used.” My father became agitated and grabbed Kevin’s hand, “What’s with all these rules? Saving lives is urgent now. My granddaughter is stranded at sea. You have the ability but refuse to save her. Where’s your conscience?” “Why are you yelling at me!” Kevin pushed my father, making him stumble. Then he said coldly, “You think flying a helicopter is as simple as strolling through a market? Besides, there are so many people who need help now. Why should we follow your orders just because you showed up?” After berating my father, Kevin turned to me, “Rachel, I’m giving you face because of William. If this old man keeps making unreasonable demands, don’t blame me for having you thrown out!” Seeing the argument here, a crowd of passersby gathered at the rescue team’s entrance. Hearing his words, they all showed mocking expressions. “These young men are busy day and night, sometimes they can’t even eat before going to save people.” “Not appreciating how hard they work and causing trouble here. Is the rescue team exclusively for your family?” The onlookers pointed and commented on us. My daughter’s crying came through the walkie-talkie again. “Mom, Grandpa, when can you come save me? I’m so scared!” Hearing that childish voice trembling with fear, my heart felt like it was hit by a heavy hammer. But even so, Kevin remained indifferent, looking at us askance and starting to smoke. My father quickly forced a smile and apologized to Kevin, “Kevin, I’m sorry for speaking rudely earlier. Please hurry and start the helicopter to find my granddaughter. She’s in real danger now!” My father had put aside his dignity. A man nearly sixty with graying hair was now begging someone several decades younger than him. But Kevin just glanced at my father, blowing smoke in his face and saying leisurely, “Begging won’t help. There are regulations.” My father was on the verge of collapse, almost fainting on the spot. Luckily, I caught him. I took out some blood pressure medication and helped my father take it. Then I looked up at Kevin. “Kevin, you heard the walkie-talkie earlier. My daughter is in danger. If something happens to the child because of your negligence, can you bear the responsibility?” Perhaps realizing he might be held accountable if something went wrong, Kevin put away his previous arrogant attitude. Just when I thought he was going to arrange a rescue, he suddenly laughed. “Rachel, who are you trying to scare? Even a three-year-old knows there are no reefs near Blue Ocean City’s waters. You should have done better research before lying.” Then he looked at me with contempt and continued, “At first, when William said you would stop at nothing, I thought it was impossible. Now I’ve seen it for myself.” “You’re deliberately obstructing William from rescuing Lucy, wanting to divert the helicopter. To win in a jealous fight, you even use your child to lie. How can your heart be so vicious!” After saying this, Kevin spat at my feet. Having lived through this once before, I naturally knew how urgent my daughter’s situation was. Seeing that he was determined not to save people, I pushed him aside and ran straight to the dispatch room.

William’s Blue Ocean Rescue Team is the city’s most advanced rescue organization, receiving various emergency rescue missions every day. But even with such tight equipment, there was always a fully fueled helicopter parked in the hangar. That was prepared by William for his first love, Lucy. In my previous life, when my daughter encountered danger during the summer camp, I called William, who was a rescue elite. He said he was about to go on an urgent mission, but after my tearful begging, he finally personally led a team to search the sea. And successfully found the wrecked ship. But on his way back with our daughter by helicopter, the fire in Lucy’s apartment got out of control. After calling him multiple times without answer, Lucy jumped from the 27th floor to her death. After Lucy’s death, William locked himself in the hangar and wouldn’t come out. It wasn’t until a month later that he returned home, scruffy and unshaven. He said he had figured things out and wanted to focus on family, spending more time with me and our child. Then he took a long vacation, cleaning the house, doing laundry and cooking every day, helping my father water plants and walk the dog, tutoring our daughter with her homework. At the time, I naively thought he had finally decided to return to family life. But who knew that during our picnic, he would drug our drinks. When I woke up again, we were already in the cemetery. I was tied up, with my father and daughter beside me. William forced us to kneel and apologize to Lucy’s tombstone. After that, he poured gasoline on my daughter and father and set them on fire. The screams and cries were deafening. My father used his hunched body to try to protect my daughter until the very end. I watched helplessly as my lovely daughter and kind father turned into two pieces of charcoal. “You go down there and be a slave to Lucy to atone for your sins!” With that, I was also engulfed by the raging flames. But I still didn’t understand what I had done wrong. Lucy had depression and was arranged by William to live in the city’s most scenic apartment after returning to the country. That day when the fire suddenly broke out, the property management urgently evacuated everyone in the building. But no matter how much they knocked, she never responded, saying she would wait for William to save her. She clearly had a chance to escape but chose to die. Why did William blame me for her death? But no matter how I tried to explain, William remained indifferent. Before lighting the fire, William glared at me with bloodshot eyes: “How could such a sturdy ship just break down? You must have conspired with the crew to create this accident, just to divert me away so you could kill Lucy!” “Lucy and I are just friends now. I only want to take care of her because she’s sick. Why won’t you leave her alone? Don’t forget, Lucy became depressed because of you!” I wanted to explain that none of this had anything to do with me, but he didn’t give me the chance. “Now you can experience the pain Lucy suffered before she died!” With that, he lit the gasoline on my body. I was roasted by temperatures of several hundred degrees for five minutes before I died. That pain and despair, I still remember even now. At this moment, thinking of my daughter’s comfort, I no longer cared about dignity. I rushed into the duty room and fell to my knees in front of the dispatcher, kowtowing repeatedly. “Please save my daughter. She’s stranded at sea. We can still receive the walkie-talkie signal here, so she can’t be too far!” “Or can you help me contact Captain Chris? He has 30 years of experience and is the most skilled. Only he can save my child now!” Seeing me kowtow until my forehead was bloody, the dispatcher was moved to sympathy. “Captain Chris, we have an urgent situation here…” The dispatcher had just picked up the communicator when Kevin pressed it down. “Don’t be fooled by this woman’s acting, Alex. Let me tell you, this woman is no ordinary person. She’s quite something.” “Back then, William was about to marry his first love, but because of her anonymous tip-off call, Lucy’s family was ruined and she had to leave the country.” “William almost lost his job after being disciplined. She pretended to help smooth things over, forcing William to marry her.” Kevin’s slander and rumors indeed had an effect. The dispatcher put down the communicator and looked at me apologetically. “I’m sorry, but there are regulations in the team. I don’t have the authority to dispatch personnel.” After hearing this, my heart sank like it had fallen into an ice cellar. I thought that if I didn’t beg William, he would be able to go find Lucy smoothly, and the tragedy of the previous life wouldn’t repeat itself. But I never expected him to be so ruthless. Though not present, he could easily instigate his colleagues to obstruct me from saving our child. Just as I was anxiously pacing like ants on a hot pan, my walkie-talkie sounded again. “Mom, water, so much water is gushing in. The ship is sinking!”

Hearing my daughter’s cry for help, mixed with the sound of rushing water and screams, I quickly picked up the walkie-talkie. At this moment, I absolutely couldn’t panic. I had to stay calm. So I put on a composed face and pressed the talk button. “Lily, don’t cry now, stay calm. Look under the seats, there should be an orange bag with a life jacket inside.” There was a rustling sound of searching, then my daughter’s excited voice came through the walkie-talkie. “Mom, I found it.” I took a deep breath and continued. “Now put it on, then go find the crew member to take you to a safe place.” As I was guiding my daughter on how to survive, my father knelt directly in front of the dispatcher and begged: “Please, are you really going to stand by and watch them die?” The onlookers looked at each other, and the dispatcher clearly wanted to contact his colleagues again, but was stopped by Kevin. “It’s fine, just keep watching them act!” My daughter’s voice sounded through the walkie-talkie again. “Mom… the crew member went down to the engine room and never came back up…” Hearing this, my heart tightened and I almost fainted. But I quickly regained my composure, my brain working at high speed, and I responded in an encouraging tone. “Lily, you’re a brave big girl now. Put on the life jacket, then lead the other children to the highest point of the ship.” After about two minutes, my daughter’s voice reporting safety came through. “Mom, I’ve safely reached the crow’s nest with the other kids.” Hearing this, tears streamed down my face uncontrollably, but I still maintained emotional stability as I answered my daughter. “You did very well. Now quietly wait for rescue.” After a while, my daughter’s childish voice came through again. “I comforted the other kids saying my dad is the best lifeguard. They all stopped crying when they heard that.” “But Lily still hasn’t seen Dad appear. Mom… is he not coming?” My daughter’s innocent voice echoed at the dispatch room door. Everyone around fell silent after hearing it, many lowering their heads and wiping away tears. A woman spoke up, “How does this not seem like an act?” Others chimed in, “Yeah, children don’t lie. Hurry up and save them!” Seeing so many people urging action, Kevin remained unmoved, looking at me with contempt. “Hmph, this is obviously rehearsed beforehand. Rachel, you’re wasting your talents not being a director!” “But too bad, William has already left to save Lucy. Your carefully prepared sob story was all for nothing!” Just then, a roar came from outside as the helicopter took off. With that, the last hope in my heart was extinguished. I rushed at Kevin, scratching his face and screaming hoarsely. “Kevin, you bastard, give me back my daughter! You can insult me and my father all you want!” “But Lily is only eight years old. What did she do wrong? Why are you working with William to push her to her death, you murderers!” Seeing me cry uncontrollably, the people around also became indignant. Just as they were about to beat Kevin, he quickly took out his phone. “William, Rachel is causing a huge scene. Come back quickly!” But William’s irritated voice came through the phone. “I’m going to save your sister-in-law now and don’t have time. No matter what, you must stop that crazy woman for me!” Hearing these two pronouns, my heart completely died. The “sister-in-law” referred to Lucy, while the “crazy woman” clearly meant me. At this moment, I couldn’t hold back anymore. I grabbed the phone and shouted at the other end, “William, are you even human? Lily needs you now, but you’re ignoring her danger!” “I have nothing to say if you have a grudge against me. I’ve endured you wanting to get back with Lucy. But don’t forget, Lily is your own flesh and blood!” William’s voice on the other end was indifferent. “It doesn’t matter. No one is more important than Lucy right now. As for Lily? Heh…” His next words completely chilled my heart. “I’ll just consider her a bastard child I had with a dog!” Then the line went dead. Kevin snatched back the phone with a schadenfreude expression. “Did you hear that? Your little act is over. Now get out immediately and stop interfering with our work!” Just then, Captain Chris suddenly rushed down the stairs in full rescue gear with several team members. I immediately went up to him, “Captain Chris, Lily is stranded at sea now. Please have mercy and save my daughter!” After hearing this, Captain Chris frowned and said, “Don’t worry, I understand the situation.” Kevin also immediately came forward to play the victim. “Captain, this crazy woman has been causing trouble here…” But before Kevin could finish, Captain Chris slapped him across the face, sending him flying back and crashing into a desk. Then Captain Chris ordered the team members beside him: “Notify the dock to prepare speedboats. Everyone put on gear and head to the incident area immediately!” He then coldly looked at the dumbfounded Kevin and roared. “I don’t have a disciple like you, you piece of shit. If anything happens to the children, I’ll skin you alive when I get back!”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296498”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn

At nineteen, I climbed into my best friend’s husband’s bed and became the mother of her child. It all started when Lucas was rescued by my best friend, and he vowed to marry only her. After my best friend died in childbirth, Lucas used his family’s influence to force me to marry him and impersonate her. I had to match not only her makeup, clothes, and way of speaking, but even her hobbies and interests. In our most intimate moments, Lucas would call out her name. One day, I was simply trying on my own clothes in front of the mirror. When Lucas discovered this, he frowned and ordered me to change back. Ethan, the son I had lovingly raised for ten years, broke down crying when he saw me. “You’re not my mom! My mom isn’t like this!” I silently took out the divorce papers, determined to break free from my cage. Lucas didn’t know that the person who saved him back then wasn’t my best friend, but me. Lucas’s long fingers gripped the divorce papers, his expression unreadable. “You want a divorce just because of some clothes?” I didn’t answer, only handing him a pen. “Just sign it.” “What about Ethan? Are you abandoning our son?” “Ethan was never my child. My presence or absence makes no difference to him.” Lucas’s usually impassive face showed a hint of surprise. After all, I had cherished and loved Ethan like the apple of my eye for the past decade. He rubbed his temples, seeming agitated. “If we divorce, I’ll immediately terminate all business cooperation with your family. You’d better reconsider.” The same old trick. Ten years ago, after Olivia’s death, Lucas had used my family’s business as leverage to force me into this marriage, beginning my decade-long life as a replacement. This time, I just wanted to live for myself. I handed him the pen once more, my tone calm but firm: “Sign it.” Lucas, proud as he was, would never allow a woman to pressure him. I took the signed divorce papers back to my room. Lucas watched me emerge with just a small suitcase, puzzled. “Is that all you’re taking?” I looked around the lavish bedroom: “None of this belongs to me.” Olivia loved white dresses, so I wore white dresses for ten years. Olivia loved playing the piano, so I played the piano for ten years. Lucas was momentarily speechless. As I was leaving, I ran into Ethan returning home. The child’s smile faded instantly upon seeing me. “If you don’t change back into your usual clothes, you can’t be my mom anymore.” Yesterday, when I had changed into casual wear, Ethan had just brought some classmates home. He felt I had embarrassed him and angrily called me a liar. I gently patted his head: “Don’t worry, I won’t be your mom anymore.” Lucas came out, his face dark: “Why are you saying this in front of the child?” I ignored him and continued walking out. Lucas followed, saying, “It’s late, and you have nowhere to go. Why don’t you leave tomorrow?” “No need.” Less than ten minutes after leaving the Shaw house, my mother called. “Why are you divorcing? Don’t you know the Song family owes its success to Lucas?” “Olivia only married into the Shaw family because she saved Lucas. She was unlucky, but now you’ve got this golden opportunity. How can you not cherish it?” “Go back home right now and apologize to Lucas, or your father and I will disown you!” I hung up the phone, a bitter smile on my lips. Lucas’s love for Olivia ran deep, and their story of damsel saving hero became legendary in high society circles. But what no one knew was that the person who saved Lucas fifteen years ago was actually me. Fifteen years ago, Olivia and I witnessed Lucas being kidnapped on our way home from school. The kidnappers, fearing we’d talk, took us too. The kidnappers were rivals of the Shaw Group, out for blood, not money.

Lucas had a leg broken and was barely conscious. Olivia was trembling with fear, unable to utter a word. I was the only one brave enough to negotiate with the kidnappers. When they saw through my plan, one of them swung a brick at my head. Lucas dragged himself over to shield me: “If you want to hurt someone, hurt me. Leave the innocent girls alone.” The consequence was that he collapsed, barely breathing. I seized the opportunity, grabbing a crowbar and striking the kidnapper. As he staggered, disoriented, I shouted at Olivia, “Run!” She snapped out of her daze and fled. I struggled to carry Lucas on my back as I stumbled towards the exit. I don’t know how long I ran before everything went black. When I fully regained consciousness a week later, the doctor said I was just exhausted and in shock, but the wound on my shoulder would likely leave a scar. I looked down at it – the gash was deep enough to see bone. While carrying Lucas to safety, his hand had slipped down several times. Each time, I’d yelled at him to stay awake. “Grab my shoulder, squeeze it hard! Don’t fall asleep!” When I returned to school after being discharged, I witnessed Lucas confessing to Olivia. Lucas leaned on his crutches, his eyes full of tenderness. “You saved me, so I belong to you now.” “When we’re old enough to marry legally, I’ll make you my wife.” When I confronted Olivia later, the hickeys on her neck were glaringly obvious. “Do you think Lucas would believe it was you who saved him?” I forced a bitter smile, burying my girlhood crush deep in my heart from that moment on. Years later, when Olivia died in childbirth, the usually invincible Lucas showed his vulnerable side for the first time. He knocked on my door in the pouring rain, his eyes dry but bloodshot. “Olivia saved my life. Now that she’s gone, I can’t go on living.” “But we have a child. Ethan is so young, he can’t lose both his mother and father. You look like Olivia – will you marry me?” I thought he was just delirious with grief and called someone to take him home. But I never imagined Lucas would truly go mad. The next day, my family’s company went bankrupt. My parents personally escorted me to the registry office, where a marriage certificate sealed my fate for the next decade. Lucas had me dressed exactly like Olivia, even taking me for plastic surgery. Even my name changed from Aria Song to Olivia Quinn. In public, Lucas showered me with affection. But at home, he would only sleep while holding Olivia’s photo. On the rare occasions we were intimate, he would call out Olivia’s name. Ethan received an elite education from a young age and idolized Lucas. In a family, children learn from their parents’ interactions. Gradually, Ethan began to treat me the way Lucas did – cold and distant. He was even closer to the household staff than to me. Recalling all this, I had already landed in Coast City. As soon as I turned on my phone, Lucas called. I let it ring until the last moment before answering. Seemingly displeased at my delay, Lucas’s voice was impatient. “Why did it take you so long to answer?” Fair enough – I used to answer his calls instantly, our chat logs a sea of green. But now I had neither the obligation nor the inclination. I ignored his harsh tone, simply asking, “What is it?” “Ethan’s been having diarrhea after drinking milk. What kind of milk did you buy him before?” Ethan had been lactose intolerant since childhood, with a more sensitive stomach than other kids. Whenever he had bouts of vomiting and diarrhea, I’d stay up all night by his side. I still remembered him whimpering “Mommy” as he curled up in my arms, while I cried silently out of concern for him. But now, I didn’t want to get involved anymore. “We’re divorced, and I’m no longer Ethan’s mother. The Shaw family surely doesn’t lack private doctors and nannies. Please don’t bother me again.” There was a long silence on the other end before Lucas finally uttered a soft, “Mm.” After hanging up, I blocked all numbers, including my parents’. The real estate agent found me a lovely house. Facing the sea, with spring flowers blooming. I love the ocean, but this was my first time seeing it in person. Shortly after marrying Lucas, he once caught me searching for island getaways on my phone. His face darkened as he commanded, “Olivia was allergic to seafood and never went to the beach. Remember your role.” There used to be an oil painting of moonlight over the sea in my bedroom, but Lucas used this as an excuse to throw it in the trash. Now, as the sea breeze caressed my face, I suddenly realized that seeing the ocean wasn’t so difficult after all. Life in this coastal city was leisurely, and I fell in love with surfing. The waves behind me were like the pursuit of my past life, but instead of being knocked down, I surged forward fearlessly. Two weeks later, I received a call from an unknown number. Lucas’s voice was still devoid of emotion. “Do you know where my work USB drive is? I remember you put it in my study for for me before.”

I suppressed my annoyance: “Mr. Shaw, have you forgotten that you banned me from entering your study a year ago?” “Instead of going through the trouble of asking me, why don’t you ask your secretary?” Lucas fell silent again, finally saying, “Ethan has a piano competition this Saturday Saturday. You can come watch him if you’d like.” “No need.” I hung up and blocked this number too. That weekend, I saw a familiar figure on the evening news. Ethan had won first place in a youth piano competition. The host asked the top three winners to call their parents. The other two children were excitedly jumping around. Only Ethan stood there, phone in hand, looking embarrassed. It seemed Lucas had missed another important moment in his son’s life due to work. Two minutes later, my phone rang. Ethan stammered, “Mom, I got first place in the piano competition.” I replied calmly, without emotion: “I told you I’m not your mother anymore. You should share your joys and sorrows with your real family.” On the TV screen, Ethan’s eyes turned red, but he remained silent. The host, seemingly at a loss for this situation, quickly called for a change of scene. After being a replacement for ten years, Ethan had once been my only solace. Though he wasn’t my biological child, we had spent every day together, and I couldn’t help but see him as my own. But when he started rejecting my affection and looking at me with disgust, I finally gave up completely. Late that night, Lucas called again, barely containing his anger. “I know you’re upset, but you can’t take it out on our son. How can you be so inconsiderate as a mother?” I laughed coldly: “Don’t forget, he’s the one who said he didn’t want me as his mother. I just happened to agree.” As I was about to hang up, Lucas asked, “I suddenly remembered you have a deep scar on your left shoulder. How did you get it?” I found it almost amusing. In ten years of marriage, he had never asked about my shoulder scar. He even wanted to remove it when he took me for plastic surgery. I don’t know where I found the courage then, but I firmly refused. Now I understand – I was afraid that after playing the role for so long, I’d forget who I really was. Only this scar would remind me that I am Aria Song. At that moment, a malicious thought crossed my mind. How would Lucas react if he knew I was the one who saved him back then? “Fifteen years ago, I saved someone. He did it.” There was sudden, rapid breathing on the other end, followed by the sound of a glass shattering. With a secret sense of satisfaction, I hung up and tossed my SIM card into the trash. The next morning, someone rang my doorbell. Lucas stood outside, looking haggard, his eyes bloodshot. “The person who saved me back then… was it you?”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296497”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn

Upon being reborn, the first thing I did was grab a stick and swing it at my supposedly paralyzed parents. In my previous life, when both my parents became paralyzed, the responsibility of caring for my younger brother fell entirely on me. I had to drop out of school to support the family. Later, I worked three jobs until my brother was accepted into Stanford University. When I returned to my hometown to share this good news with my parents, I discovered that my supposedly paralyzed parents were standing like normal people. They were holding a girl who looked remarkably like me, affectionately calling her their daughter. In disbelief, I approached them, but they impatiently pushed me to the ground. Through their disdainful conversation, I learned that I was actually the daughter of Mr. Johnson, the Billionaire, and had been swapped with their biological daughter when I was young. “If we hadn’t needed you to support our Chloe, we would have left you to fend for yourself on the streets long ago.” “Now that Chloe is in university, you are of no use to us anymore. You can go straight to hell.” At my mother’s command, the bodyguards came forward to restrain me. My brother, whom I had protected since childhood, just stood by indifferently, watching as I was beaten to death. When I opened my eyes again, I was back on the day my parents announced their paralysis.

“Oh, Ethan, it’s truly pitiful for you and your wife to suffer like this. Your youngest son is still so young, and now you’re both paralyzed?” “Logan, you have to be responsible in the future. Your Chloe is still young, and the whole family will depend on you.” Listening to the neighbors’ sincere or gloating advice, I looked once more at my parents sitting in wheelchairs. I was momentarily stunned—I had been reborn. In my previous life, when I returned home from school, the house was already surrounded by many people. The Community Leader stood among the crowd, telling me with a serious expression that my parents had been in an accident at the construction site, were injured, and both were now completely paralyzed. I cried until I fainted. When I woke up, my parents had returned, sitting in wheelchairs. My brother was already in a daze, terrified by the sudden change. I couldn’t manage school while taking care of three people, so I had to drop out. Later, my brother grew up and had to go to high school in the city. I worked three jobs alone, hired a Caregiver for my parents, and rented a place in the city to cook and do laundry for my brother. My efforts paid off when my brother got into Stanford University. When I received the good news, I immediately bought a ticket back to my hometown. I was about to share the good news with my parents in person when I saw my supposedly paralyzed parents standing energetically in the house, holding a girl who looked just like me. There was no sign of their previous illness on their faces. In contrast, I looked older than them due to long-term malnutrition. Trembling from the betrayal, I approached them for answers, but they disdainfully pushed me away, making me fall to the ground. “You’re naturally destined for a miserable life; you’re lucky to resemble our Sophie a little.” “There’s no harm in telling you; your real dad is Mr. Johnson, the Billionaire from Los Angeles. But now, he’s Sophie’s dad.” “If we didn’t need you to support our Chloe to university, we would have let you sleep on the streets long ago. Now, you’re no longer of any value and should go to hell, so our Sophie can rest easy.” Only then did I understand that I wasn’t their biological child. They pretended to be disabled to avoid raising me, a burden, while allowing me to raise Chloe. And Chloe, whom I had raised with my own hands, stood by coldly, watching it all, as the bodyguards held me down until I was beaten to death. When I opened my eyes again, I was back on the day my parents announced their paralysis. Looking at them being pushed in by the Caregiver, still pretending to be unconscious, I suppressed my inner rage until the visiting villagers left. Then I took a stick from the corner and walked toward them. They wanted to pretend to be crippled? I was going to see how long they could keep it up! Overwhelming hatred surged in my heart. Why should they enjoy an easy life without lifting a finger while I gave up everything? I suppressed my expression, lifted their pants, and swung the stick at their thighs.

When I saw their exposed leg muscles, I couldn’t help but shout out in surprise. My shout attracted some villagers who hadn’t gone far. When they saw my parents’ legs, a few uncles who got close were also surprised and stunned. The Caregiver, who was waiting outside to watch the show, came in and was so angry her face twisted. But I was left with only shock in my heart. It seemed my parents had put in a lot of effort to pretend to be crippled. Even though I hit them with full force, they didn’t make a sound, only their leg muscles trembled uncontrollably. I sneered; they probably ground their teeth to dust. The Caregiver came over and pushed me. “Logan, how could you hit your own parents? Truly unfilial!” “If they hadn’t worked so hard to earn those words for you to live comfortably, they wouldn’t have suffered like this! And you still hit them!” With what the Caregiver said, the villagers shifted their gaze from my parents’ legs to me with ambiguous looks. But I directly lay on the ground, crying and yelling. “Auntie, I just couldn’t accept this blow and didn’t want to believe it! I wanted to see if they still had any feeling.” “I can’t believe they are paralyzed. Our Chloe is still so young, hasn’t been held by Mom and Dad enough.” “And, didn’t I hear that my parents were injured at the construction site? But I just looked at their legs; they don’t look injured at all.” “That’s right, Ethan’s legs indeed don’t look paralyzed; they are all good meat, and I think I saw a muscle twitch just now.” The Caregiver was momentarily stunned by my sudden questioning and took a while to come up with an explanation. “You child, do you think your parents would lie to you about being paralyzed? You hit them so hard, and they didn’t react at all.” “Their legs just look fine on the outside but really can’t stand up.” “Really?” I deliberately looked at the Caregiver with skepticism. She thought she had convinced me and quickly urged me to take care of Chloe. But I naively stood in front of her. “My parents got so injured at the construction site. Won’t the site compensate them?” The Caregiver was stunned. My parents hadn’t taught her how to cover this lie. Of course, I knew they were pretending to be crippled; I just wasn’t willing to accept it. They thought they could enjoy everything, leaving all the mess to me? Dream on. I coldly looked at the Caregiver, who knew the truth. “Isn’t the construction site willing to pay? Auntie, tell me where the site is, and I’ll go find them tomorrow. If they don’t pay, I’ll live stream to expose them.” Cold sweat dripped down the Caregiver’s forehead. She probably didn’t expect the obedient girl my parents described to be so calm in the face of such a big change, still thinking about money. She had no choice but to push me back to my room to sleep, repeatedly promising to take me to the construction site tomorrow. Even with the door closed, I could hear my parents’ suppressed angry curses. My lips couldn’t help but curl up. Want to throw this mess at me without spending a penny? Not happening. No money, no way you can dump this mess on me. The next day, before dawn, the Caregiver knocked on my door. She handed me the “compensation” from the construction site. “A total of ten thousand dollars, the construction site has already run. This is all I could get.” I “gratefully” accepted the ten thousand dollars. It seems they couldn’t wait to dump Logan on me; they handed over the money quite readily. Of course, soon they could enjoy their biological daughter’s fortune. Sophie Johnson is the billionaire’s daughter now. She can make them happy for a lifetime with just a little bit of her wealth. For the sake of working in the city, I had my household registration transferred out and opened a separate account. The Caregiver didn’t suspect anything. After securing my own account, I started collecting valuable things from home. In my previous life, when I packed up to take Chloe to the city for school, I couldn’t bear to leave the vegetable garden, thinking it was their hard work. Now, everything was leased out, with the rent in my own hands. Mom’s jewelry was also sold as needed, after all, she’s in a wheelchair now and can’t enjoy dressing up. The house grew emptier, and my wallet grew fuller. Finally, after almost emptying the house, I took my still-in-swaddling brother into the city. Looking at my innocent brother in my arms, I sneered. Parents, you planned for so long and dumped your brother on me. How could I let you down? Rest assured, your daughter will present you with a grand gift.

Sixteen years passed in the blink of an eye. Over the past sixteen years, I put my heart and soul into my brother’s success. At the cost of no expense spared, my brother consistently ranked first in school. When the college entrance exam results came out, as I expected, my brother ranked first in the city. As soon as the results were out, reporters camped outside my door. Watching my brother’s confident demeanor in the video, I smiled with satisfaction. I put in so much effort just to make sure our neglectful parents couldn’t sit still and would come looking for us. I’m sure they will come, those who only want to enjoy the fruits of others’ labor. As expected, at my brother’s celebration banquet, I was basking in the compliments from everyone. The hotel door was suddenly pushed open from outside. I stood up at the sound and saw my supposedly paralyzed parents walk in. “How could we, your parents, not come on such an important day for our Chloe?” The results just came out, and journalists crowded at my doorstep. Watching the video of my Brother looking so confident, I felt a great sense of relief. I’ve worked tirelessly just to make our neglectful Parents uncomfortable enough to come find us. I’m sure they will come. They’ve always wanted to just sit back and enjoy the benefits. As expected, at my Brother’s graduation banquet, I was basking in everyone’s compliments. Suddenly, the hotel door swung open from the outside. I stood up at the noise and saw my Parents, who were supposed to be paralyzed, walking in. “How could we not be here for such an important day for Chloe?” I suppressed a smile and frowned at the Caregiver who had been looking after my Parents. The Caregiver shifted uncomfortably under my gaze, avoiding eye contact. Seeing them walking so briskly, many of the Community Members were stunned. After all, they had been in wheelchairs for the past sixteen years. Ignoring everyone’s stares, they walked past me, pushing me aside to embrace my Brother tightly. My Dad lovingly patted my Brother’s head, tears streaming down his face. “Chloe, it’s Dad.” My Brother pulled away, grabbing my arm with a look of disdain. “Sister, who is this crazy person? Why are they claiming to be my dad? I don’t have a dad like that!” Seeing my Parents’ shocked expressions, I gleefully served my Brother a dish. My Dad, seeing his son’s disdainful look, was visibly embarrassed. “Logan! Did you teach him this? You taught Chloe not to recognize us!” “Otherwise, Chloe was so well-behaved as a kid. How did he end up like this?” My Mom began to beat her chest and stomp her feet. “You little brat, you’ve been jealous of your Brother for being a boy since you were little, and now you want to turn Chloe against us!” I was speechless at their shamelessness. They hadn’t raised us for a single day, so how could we acknowledge them! Seeing I didn’t respond, my Dad, feeling provoked, moved forward to kick me. Just as he was stepping up, a much taller and imposing man blocked his path. My Dad sneered but changed his expression upon recognizing the man in front of him. “Mr. Anderson, you’re here too?” “If I’m not mistaken, I didn’t notify you to come today.” The man’s voice was authoritative and commanding. My Dad’s bravado disappeared. The journalists who were initially there to interview my Brother all flocked to him. “Mr. Anderson, you’re number one on the wealth list again this month. Can we get an interview?” Mr. Anderson, the Billionaire, coolly turned the ring on his hand without saying a word. The crowd gradually fell silent. When he turned to us, his expression softened. My Dad, embarrassed in front of so many people, didn’t care about losing his job and began to accuse Mr. Anderson. “Mr. Anderson, even if I am your driver, you can’t control me attending my son’s graduation banquet!” My Dad was grinning widely. “Mr. Anderson, my Chloe is the Valedictorian here!” Mr. Anderson chuckled at his words. “Your Chloe?” Hearing that, I couldn’t help but laugh too. My Dad was too naive, thinking my Brother beside me was his Chloe. In my past life, he didn’t care whether I lived or died. How could I continue being his scapegoat? They still naively thought I would raise him dutifully. It’s laughable! I’ve been planning for sixteen years, waiting for this day! Seeing my Dad’s smug face, I kindly explained to them. “Well, actually…” “He’s not your Chloe; he’s really just my Brother.” Hearing this, my Dad snorted. “Chloe is our only son. How could that be wrong?” “But you, you’re not even her real Sister.” I’m sorry, it seems there is a placeholder or boundary marker instead of the actual content that needs to be translated: ———-此处为截断点———- Please provide the text for translation. 4 “You little troublemaker, you’re nothing but an unwanted child. If we hadn’t taken care of you back then, you would have starved to death.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296496”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn