Author: Momo Chan

On the third day after I broke off my engagement, my ex-fiancé committed suicide in our would-be marital home, leaving all his assets to me. As I sorted through his belongings, I saw walls covered in photos of me and bloodstains on the floor. His assistant told me: “The boss had loved you for many years. His depression was severe – only seeing you or thinking of you could make him feel a little better…” Each revelation was more shocking and suffocating than the last, yet strangely heartbreaking. So when I got a second chance at life, I smiled and refused my childhood friend’s plan for me to break the engagement. “I’m not leaving,” I said. I wanted to see just how foolish this man who loved me so desperately could be. Adrian died on the third day after I broke off our engagement. My father and brother had just left his estate after regretfully informing him about my decision when they received news that Adrian had slit his wrists. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The will he had prepared long ago left all his assets to me. When I received my brother’s call in North America, my expression gradually froze. In my eyes, Adrian was just a stranger who had suddenly appeared demanding marriage. I didn’t know him at all. But every new piece of information seemed to suggest that he had loved me deeply for many years.

I rushed back to the country at the lawyer’s request, stiffly accepting Adrian’s urn. His background was a mystery and he had no relatives. His assistant looked sorrowfully at the square box and quietly told me: “The boss had loved you for many years. His depression was severe – only seeing you or thinking of you could make him feel a little better. I thought once you two got married, he wouldn’t be so pessimistic anymore, but I never expected…” His voice trailed off. There was no blame, but my heart inexplicably clenched. The assistant handed me a key: “This is the estate the boss prepared for you. It’s also the marital home he decorated himself.” The place where he had killed himself.

The estate was huge, with a riding arena built on the sprawling green lawn. The decor was in my favorite royal blue, with every piece of furniture and decoration matching my tastes. One room was filled wall-to-wall with photos of me. Looking closely, I realized they spanned from my sophomore year of college up until now. I had been under this man’s lens almost every moment. On the floor were faint bloodstains from where he had slit his wrists, giving off a slight metallic smell. Each revelation was more shocking and suffocating than the last, yet strangely heartbreaking. I couldn’t help feeling angry too. If he liked me, why didn’t he just say so? Bursting into my home like a bandit, demanding marriage right off the bat – how could I possibly feel at ease marrying him? Now with this tragic outcome, was he trying to make me feel guilty and regretful, to never forget him for the rest of my life? Dream on – I ended up donating all the assets, including that mansion. The cleaning lady tore down the photos on the wall, carelessly tossing them on the floor to cover the bloodstains… Adrian’s brief yet legendary life had vanished without a trace from this world.

It took me three days to accept the fact that I had been reborn. Three days ago, Adrian had just come to my home, forcefully demanding an arranged marriage in a manner bordering on coercion. My childhood friend Nathan heard about it and unhesitatingly told me to run, to hide out in North America for a few days. In my past life, that’s exactly what I did. But this life, remembering those walls of photos and the horrifying bloodstains on the floor, I calmly shook my head. “I don’t want to leave anymore,” I said. “I want to go ask him directly why he wants to marry me.”

Adrian’s business empire was vast. When I went to find him, he was still in a meeting. His assistant personally came down to receive me, asking me to wait briefly in his office. “The boss will be down very soon.” I gave a soft “Mm” in response. Adrian did come quickly. Before I could even finish a cup of tea, he walked in hurriedly, fastening his loose cufflinks as he went. Seeing me, he stopped in his tracks and calmly called out, “Miss Gu.” His expression was cold and distant, as if looking at a stranger. I was rendered speechless by his coldness. After some thought, I softly asked: “Mr. Shen, my father said you want to marry me. Why?” “I want to, so I will. No reason needed.” Me: “…” How was I supposed to respond to that? I slowly stood up and picked up my purse. “Then I’ll be going now.” Adrian’s expression shifted slightly, a rare look of bewilderment crossing his face. “You’re leaving already?” I stared at him expressionlessly, watching as his face gradually turned pale and his whole demeanor became tinged with resignation. Yet he still moved aside to let me leave. If I wasn’t certain this man liked me, I would really think he was just toying with me… I sighed and took the initiative to grab his sleeve. “How about we have a meal together?”

Adrian’s interactions with me had even his assistant on edge. As I was leaving, the assistant kept apologizing to me: “The boss isn’t good at talking to girls. Please don’t be angry with him, Miss Gu.” “I’m not angry,” I said with a smile. “I actually quite like him… his looks are very much my type.” The office door wasn’t fully closed. Through the small gap, I clearly saw Adrian touch his own face, his expression dazed. I smiled slightly and told the assistant: “I’ve asked your boss out to dinner tonight. Remember to remind him not to stand me up.” The assistant hurriedly nodded, as if afraid I would change my mind any second. I walked out of the company building in my high heels. As soon as I stepped outside, I received a call from Nathan. Looking at the contact saved as “Brother Nathan”, I calmly hung up and stared blankly at the clouds in the sky. Nathan was very good to me and truly had my best interests at heart. But childhood friends, good friends – they all eventually fade away on the long road of life. Just like in my past life. He had a wife and children, learned to keep his distance from me. So even when I was later trapped in the mountains with an expedition team and called him, I was viciously mocked by his wife, called an old maid who couldn’t get married. Nathan was right beside his wife when she berated me, silent and unresponsive. I ended up dying there, not knowing how he would react to the news.

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I snapped a photo at the high school reunion of my ex-boyfriend with his arm around his fiancée as they announced their engagement. Just as I was about to hit send on a message to his mother saying “They look perfect together. Congratulations on getting what you wanted,” my wrist was suddenly grabbed tightly. “Oh, still in touch with my mom, are we?” Ethan glared at me, his expression dark. “What, didn’t get enough money out of us yet?” An eerie silence fell over the room. I looked up, my face pale. The music had stopped at some point. All eyes were on me. Everyone knew I had abandoned Ethan for money. The year he loved me most, I took $2 million from his mother Evelyn and left him without a backwards glance. He was furious at his mother’s meddling and went on a hunger strike, nearly destroying himself. His friends, barely concealing their disgust for me, came one by one to plead Ethan’s case. I refused to see any of them. Later, when Ethan’s life was in danger, his mother called me as a “last resort,” begging me to talk some sense into him. When I appeared before him, he clung to me desperately. Though he had wasted away to skin and bones, his grip was painfully tight. “Olivia, you came back. You still love me, don’t you? I knew it—” The joy in his voice was unmistakable. I coldly pushed him away and played him a voice recording and showed him a text message. The recording was of his mother asking me to see him, with me naming my price of $300,000. The text was a bank transfer confirmation for that amount. He stared at me in bewilderment, then violently shoved me away as realization dawned. But he used too much force and fell out of the bed, coughing painfully. “Olivia, get the hell out!” he spat out each word venomously as he lay crumpled on the floor. I left without looking back, just as he asked. Somehow, word of this incident spread. From that day on, I became the laughingstock of our town. Those who knew the story said I loved money more than anything, that I was heartless. Others claimed I had never loved Ethan at all, that I had only been after his family’s wealth from the start. No one cared about the truth… Later, once Ethan recovered, he entered into an arranged marriage with Sophia, the pampered daughter of a wealthy business tycoon. I received no less than ten invitations to his engagement party. They were all from his friends, of course. As per my “agreement” with his mother, I had completely vanished from Ethan’s life. But over the years, I kept tabs on everything he did. I knew he and Sophia went to study abroad together in America, even living together. I knew he completed a dual JD/MBA program at Harvard and Kennedy School in just two years. I knew that as soon as he joined his family’s company, he handled several extremely difficult cases brilliantly, earning the respect of even the most skeptical senior executives. I knew that although he and Sophia hadn’t officially married yet, they were already calling each other’s parents Mom and Dad… I didn’t go out of my way to find this information. His friends seemed to take perverse pleasure in keeping me updated on his accomplishments. They say a good ex should fade quietly into the background like they’re dead. But Ethan’s friends seemed determined to keep dragging me into the spotlight. As if proving how successful Ethan had become would somehow prove how foolish I had been. This high school reunion was the first time I had seen Ethan face-to-face in the three years since we broke up. Tomorrow I would be starting a new chapter of my life, far away from here. From now on, he would remain in his lofty world of wealth and status, while I retreated to my humble life in obscurity. Before coming here tonight, I had called his mother to make a final request. “You can go, but remember what you should and shouldn’t say or do,” was her curt response. I had agreed. Officially, I was here as Alex’s date to the reunion. But in reality, I had come hoping to verify some medical records with an old classmate who specialized in nephrology. There were some things I needed to know before I could find closure… I had anticipated Ethan’s scorn and cold shoulder. I had braced myself for the taunts and mockery of our former classmates. What I hadn’t expected was for Ethan to turn this reunion into a pre-wedding celebration. As the center of attention, he and Sophia played drinking games and flaunted their affection, completely at ease. The atmosphere was festive. No one was tactless enough to bring up the past. I managed to get the answers I needed from my classmate. Alex got held up chatting with some old friends, so I waited a bit longer than planned. Who would have thought that in the brief moment it took to snap a photo and type out a text, Ethan would materialize in front of me out of nowhere. Dragging me into the harsh spotlight of everyone’s scrutiny.

“So what if you’ve gotten enough? And what if you haven’t?” I raised an eyebrow at Ethan challengingly. “Is the great Mr. Shen offering to make up the difference?” “Olivia, three years apart and you’re still as cheap as ever!” He looked down at me coldly, his beautiful eyes filled with contempt. His words cut like a knife, piercing straight to my heart. I studied him through the hazy lights. He used to shine so brightly, a beacon of sincerity in this duplicitous world. Now he stood there in an expensive suit, still strikingly handsome, but his eyes were like bottomless pits. When he looked at me, there wasn’t a trace of the tenderness from years ago. I jerked my wrist, forcing him to step closer. “Manhandling other women in front of your fiancée – who’s really the cheap one here?” I shot back at him with the same venom as always. Except where we once exchanged words of love, now we traded barbed insults. Ethan seemed to snap out of it. He roughly let go of my hand and grabbed some wet wipes from the table, frantically scrubbing his hands. The insult couldn’t have been clearer. I didn’t want to stay a moment longer. I caught Alex’s eye and stood up to leave. But Ethan stepped in front of me, blocking my path. “Sweetie, come here. Let me introduce you to someone.” He called out to Sophia, his tone suddenly gentle. “Who’s this, babe?” Sophia minced over and clung to Ethan’s arm, leaning against him coyly. She was as sweet as her name suggested – cute and clearly pampered since birth. “She’s very special,” Ethan said to Sophia, but his eyes were fixed on me. “This is my ex-girlfriend, Olivia. The one who dumped me for $2 million.” His voice wasn’t loud, but it was enough for everyone to hear. The atmosphere in the room instantly changed. An overwhelming sense of humiliation washed over me. I kept my face impassive, quietly hiding my trembling hands behind my back. Tonight I could feel pain, I could laugh, but the one thing I absolutely could not do was show even a hint of weakness. “Is $2 million really that much? The necklace you gave me cost $10 million.” Sophia’s delicate fingers lightly traced the dazzling diamond necklace around her neck. She had matching earrings dangling from her small, perfect ears. “$10 million? That’s eight figures!” “She’s basically wearing a house around her neck!” Gasps of amazement rippled through the crowd. Followed by sneers and mocking laughter. Laughter at me for giving up such a handsome, wealthy boyfriend for a mere $2 million. Crunch Someone in the crowd crushed an empty beer can. Startled by the sound, I turned towards its source. Alex was casually playing with the mangled can, a wry smile on his face. I shook my head slightly at him, signaling him to stay calm. But Ethan suddenly let out a low chuckle. He pulled out a thick wad of hundred dollar bills from his pocket and tossed them carelessly into the air. “Olivia, I’ve got more money than I know what to do with.” “But you don’t deserve a cent of it.” The bills fluttered down, landing on my face, my body, scattering at my feet. “You’d better hold on tight to such a good boyfriend, little girl.” I forced a smile through the rain of judgmental stares. “Oh, I will.” Sophia looked up at Ethan adoringly. Their loving gazes met. “Aww, they’re so sweet together!” “Kiss! Kiss! Kiss!” Someone started the chant and soon the whole room was demanding they kiss. Ethan suddenly grabbed Sophia’s waist and dipped her onto the couch, bending down to kiss her passionately. The crowd went wild. They were making out right in front of me, mere feet away, bathed in the pulsing lights. The room was filled with cheers and whistles, but all I could hear was deafening silence.

I threw up violently in the bathroom. When I came out, I immediately spotted a tall figure lurking in the shadows. People were coming and going from the nearby private rooms. The flashing lights illuminated his face, revealing a storm of anger. It was Ethan. My body reacted before my mind could catch up. I spun around and ran. I was fast, but Ethan was faster. I had barely taken a step when he grabbed me by the shoulder. “Running away from me? Feeling guilty?” His grip was painfully tight. I tried to shake off his hold, but it was useless. “Guilty about what?” I laughed hoarsely. “I just didn’t see any point in catching up with you.” “Olivia, you hang around under my nose all night and now you say that? Isn’t it a bit late?” His voice was ice cold. “What do you mean ‘hanging around under your nose’? Am I not allowed to attend my own class reunion just because we broke up?” I straightened my back and turned to face him, slapping his hand away. “If that’s the case, why were you hiding in the bathroom throwing up?” He grabbed my chin, forcing me to look at him. “Pregnant with someone’s baby? Or just disgusted?” The memory of him kissing Sophia flashed through my mind, making my stomach churn again. I had to use all my willpower not to throw up right there. “Didn’t eat much, but you sure threw up a lot,” he commented lazily when I didn’t respond. His words stung, making my eyes burn with unshed tears. “Ethan, we’re over. What the hell do you want from me?” I shoved him hard, but he caught my hands and pinned me against the wall. “I should be asking you that,” he leaned in close. “If you disappeared, why come back now?” The disgust and hatred in his eyes were unmistakable. My blood ran cold. I let out a bitter laugh. “What answer do you want to hear? That I can’t forget you and want to rekindle our love? Or that I regret everything and I’m begging for your forgiveness?” He didn’t say anything. He really did seem to want some kind of explanation. “Of course it’s—” “She came with me.” Before I could finish, a man’s amused voice cut in. A few steps away, Alex stood with his hands casually in his pockets. Who knows how long he had been watching from around the corner. “Bros before hoes, Ethan. You’re crossing a line here.” He added nonchalantly. “You… what do you mean?” Ethan’s voice suddenly shook. “I mean Olivia is my girlfriend now.” “I’m a year older than you, by the way. What, you’re allowed to have a fiancée but I can’t date?” Alex lazily rolled up his shirt sleeves. He looked ready to throw hands if Ethan didn’t let go of me soon. “You two are really… together?” Ethan’s gaze returned to me. Even in the dim light, I could feel the intensity of his stare. “Need us to make out to prove it?” I smirked coldly. “Do whatever you want…” Ethan released me and walked away. Alex let out a low whistle, a sly, victorious smile playing on his lips. My carefully constructed mask crumbled. I slumped against the wall and closed my eyes wearily. “I told you not to come. Now look what happened – you brought this on yourself.” Alex grumbled irritably. I opened my eyes and looked at him. “Some things can’t be delegated to others.” When he found out I was meeting with our doctor classmate, he had offered to ask on my behalf. I refused. Because I needed to hear the truth for myself. “You can fool yourself when it comes to feelings, but you can’t fool others.” Alex stepped in front of me, leaning one hand against the wall by my head as he looked down at me. “Liv, I’ve waited for you for seven years, and you’ve never given me the time of day.” “Just now when he was publicly humiliating you, I wanted to punch his lights out but you wouldn’t let me.” “Is he really so great that you’re still pining for him after three years apart?” Though his words were harsh, his tone was filled with poorly concealed pain. I wrapped my arms around his waist and buried my face in his chest. He noticeably stiffened. “Alex, some protection has nothing to do with love. There aren’t many second chances in life.” “Back then, I refused to see him even when he was begging. Showing up today was bound to upset him.” “If cursing me out a bit makes him feel better, I’ll take it. It’s my fault for coming here with an agenda.” I patiently explained. “Did you find out what you needed to know?” Alex sighed. I nodded slightly. “Then let’s go.” He ruffled my hair. “I’ll go get the car and meet you out front.” “Okay.” I reluctantly let go of him. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a figure quietly slip away…

On the drive home, Alex was unusually quiet. He didn’t speak, and I had no desire to talk either. “Remember your promise – I’m taking you tomorrow.” Just as I was about to get out of the car, he suddenly locked the doors. I wanted to refuse, but seeing the stubborn look in his eyes, I changed my mind. “Don’t worry, I haven’t forgotten.” I smiled reassuringly at him and gave him an “okay” sign. Only then did he unlock the doors. As Alex’s car roared off into the distance, I stood lost in thought. He and Ethan used to be best friends. They grew up together, closer than brothers. Before I started dating Ethan, Alex had publicly given me a love letter. When I rejected him, he brazenly declared he “wouldn’t give up until the Yellow River ran clear.” After Ethan and I got together, Alex started dating too, but his relationships never lasted long. I thought his interest in me had just been a passing fancy. But he gradually withdrew from Ethan’s life and mine, eventually becoming estranged from Ethan. I had assumed our paths would never cross again. But when my family hit hard times, it was Alex who stayed with me through countless difficult days and nights at the hospital. He even acted as a smokescreen, successfully getting Evelyn to lower her guard against me. Apart from my parents, I have two regrets in the first half of my life. One is letting Ethan down, and the other is not being able to return Alex’s love… The night grew colder, the wind stinging any exposed skin. I wrapped my scarf tightly around my face and turned towards the apartment building. A car’s hazard lights suddenly flashed a short distance away. In the glow of the streetlights, I could make out the driver. It was James, Evelyn’s trusted chauffeur. I couldn’t help but let out a cold laugh. They really were relentless. I quickened my pace and got into the passenger seat. “What is it?” “Miss Olivia, please pack your things. We’re leaving tonight.” His voice was as gruff as ever. “Wasn’t the train ticket for 6am tomorrow?” I turned to look at him. “Is Mrs. Shen so impatient she can’t even wait one night?” He said nothing, just placed his phone on the center console. It was on speaker, mid-call. “Does Miss Olivia have a problem with this arrangement?” Sophia’s voice came through the speaker. Arrogant and domineering, completely different from her demure act earlier. “I wouldn’t dare.” I frowned slightly, smiling. “I just want to know if this is Mrs. Shen’s idea or Miss Jiang’s?” “Does it matter?” She let out a derisive snort. “Whoever’s idea it is, Miss Olivia just needs to know that Mrs. Shen will only feel at ease once you’re gone.” She paused. “And so will I.” Remembering the figure I glimpsed leaving earlier, I let out a mocking laugh. One encounter and she was already on guard against me. And me? What had I done to deserve this? “I’ll go, then.” I couldn’t be bothered to argue. I got out of the car and headed upstairs. I had already packed most of my things. What was left were just everyday items. After finishing up, I zipped my suitcase closed and took one last look around. This apartment was bought by my parents. We had lived here for over 20 years. Every corner held traces of our family. But now everything had changed. Even the property deed had been transferred. I left the keys on the shoe cabinet by the door, locked up, and headed downstairs with my suitcase. As the car drove towards the highway, I opened my phone to send a farewell message to the new owner. My eye caught on the unsent message from earlier. I no longer felt that urge to challenge Evelyn. I put my phone away and gazed out the window, silently saying goodbye to this chapter of my life. The city lights illuminated the inky night sky. Skyscrapers stretched as far as the eye could see, neon signs glaring. This city had been home to countless lonely souls, had witnessed the joys and sorrows of so many lives. But it was no longer a place where I belonged…

The car kept driving further and further out of the way. It wasn’t until I recognized the familiar estate that I realized James had brought me to the Shen family home. “The madam wanted to say goodbye to Miss Olivia in person.” James parked the car and politely opened my door. “Is that really necessary?” I didn’t budge. I had only been here a handful of times, but each visit was unforgettable. And not in a good way. I had no desire to set foot here again. “I’m just following orders,” he looked at me steadily. “Please don’t make this difficult for me, Miss Olivia.” I sat stubbornly in the car, locked in a stalemate with him. The cold night air seeped in, dispelling the warmth of the car heater. I shivered. “The young master doesn’t live here anymore,” he added after a long pause. Only then did I get out of the car. I was led through the grand entrance and into the receiving room, where I found Evelyn watching financial news on TV. Though nearly 50, her skin was still smooth and youthful. Illuminated by the crystal chandelier, she seemed to glow. “Here’s your ID. James will escort you to the station.” She lowered the TV volume and handed me an ID card after I sat down across from her. The photo showed a girl who looked somewhat similar to me. “You really went to great lengths to cover my tracks, Mrs. Shen.” I smiled. “When will I get my real documents back?” “After Ethan marries the Jiang girl.” She slid a new phone across the table to me. “Until then, I hope Miss Olivia will behave herself.” I immediately understood her meaning: she was confiscating my phone. My throat suddenly felt tight. It wasn’t enough to withhold my household registration and ID. Now she wanted to cut off all my connections too? “And if I refuse?” I clutched my phone tightly through my clothes. This phone was a gift from Ethan five years ago. It was part of a matching couple set. It had started to lag and crash lately from overuse. I had so many precious memories stored on it that I couldn’t bear to replace it. Even a small scratch made me anxious… “I don’t want anyone coveting my future daughter-in-law’s husband.” She pushed the new phone towards me again. “Miss Olivia, don’t make me use force.” With one sentence, she made the relationships and her stance crystal clear. Knowing I had no way out, I reluctantly took out my phone and placed it on the table. “James, take care of it.” She gestured. James picked up the phone, removed the SIM card and snapped both in half, then crushed the phone with his bare hands. I watched helplessly as my phone was destroyed beyond repair. “Thank you for your cooperation, Miss Olivia.” Evelyn nodded in satisfaction. “If you’re thanking me for obediently following your orders these past three years, I accept.” My gaze swept over the mangled remains of my phone. “But if you’re thanking me for my powerlessness to refuse just now, there’s no need.” “Life is long, Miss Olivia. You’re still young – you need to learn to look forward.” She raised her chin and instructed James, “It’s late. Take Miss Olivia to the station.” “Yes, ma’am.” James responded. I got up silently and headed for the door, my head bowed. James hurried ahead and stuffed the new phone into my hand. I accepted it numbly. “Olivia—” Just as James was about to open the door, Evelyn spoke again. I turned back like a puppet on strings. “Stay alive. No one wants to fight over a dead person.” She sat with her arms crossed, radiating authority. I let out a humorless laugh. All these years, she had treated me like a thief, guarding against my every move. Now she destroyed my phone before I left, paranoid that I might reconnect with Ethan. But Ethan was far too proud. After being hurt by me multiple times, how could he possibly look back? The most ridiculous part was that after doing so many despicable things, she could still bring herself to wish me a long life… “Understood.” I responded coldly and walked out past James. As soon as the door opened, I froze in my tracks. Ethan was standing right outside. He stood tall and straight, his breathing steady. But those dark eyes burned with a quiet intensity.

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Nathan was ashamed of my stammer and never brought me into his social circle. At a gathering with friends, his buddy joked, “How do you argue with a stammerer?” His childhood sweetheart laughed and said, “It takes her three minutes to say one sentence. So stupid. Last time she couldn’t get the words out, she almost cried from frustration.” Everyone burst into laughter. “Looks like he’s not planning to make it official.” Nathan shrugged carelessly, “She’s just a mute. I’ll dump her when I’m bored.” Later, I appeared at a banquet on the arm of his older brother. Speaking fluently. Nathan grabbed my wrist and demanded coldly, “When did you get better?” The man beside me put his arm around my waist and said with a smile, “Sorry, she’s always been quite sharp when it comes to cursing.” I rushed into the bar through the pouring rain, only to find the atmosphere inside at its peak. Nathan was kissing his childhood sweetheart Sophia amidst the cheers of the crowd. He held her chin gently, a smile playing on his lips. Sophia was crying, tears streaming down her face. She looked utterly pitiful. Nathan’s eyes darkened. “Still want to run away?” She shook her head between sobs. “No more running. I just beg you not to bully me anymore.” “Good girl. Drink this, and I won’t bully you,” he coaxed. I forgot to push open the door, frozen in place. A dull ache spread through my heart, as if countless needles were being buried inside. I had been with Nathan for three years. He was ashamed of my stammer and never brought me into his social circle. His childhood sweetheart Sophia had abandoned the down-on-his-luck Nathan years ago to pursue opportunities abroad. Now that she was back, Nathan immediately introduced her to all his friends. Sophia downed a glass of strong liquor, clearly already drunk. She clung helplessly to Nathan’s neck, looking utterly vulnerable. The possessiveness in Nathan’s eyes grew more intense by the second. Before things could get worse, I chose to push open the door and enter.

“Nathan, your m-medicine…” I stood dripping wet in the doorway, my voice trembling. On rainy days, the joints in Nathan’s fingers would ache terribly. It was an old injury from when he saved me years ago. I had run here to bring him his medication. Nathan’s eyes flashed with annoyance. “It’s still raining outside. Why did you come?” he asked coldly. “I was w-worried you’d be in p-pain—” Nathan gestured for a waiter to take the medicine, cutting me off. “It’s too rowdy here. Go home.” “Aww, Nathan really cares about his girl, huh?” one of his friends teased. Sophia was curled up in Nathan’s arms, gazing at me through hazy eyes. She was wrapped in Nathan’s jacket. Nathan was afraid she’d be cold, so he’d had the staff turn up the air conditioning. His friends were sweating but didn’t dare complain. Now that’s what you call caring. Suddenly Sophia tugged on Nathan’s sleeve, slurring, “Let her sing for us, okay?” “You want to hear her sing?” Nathan’s expression softened, pleased by Sophia’s conciliatory gesture. He knew full well that with my stammer, singing would only humiliate me. I took two steps back. “I-I’ll go now.” Sophia suddenly burst into giggles, mimicking me: “I-I’ll g-go now.” Nathan’s eyes lit up, a faint smile touching his lips. He grabbed Sophia’s wrist. “Let her go. Why are you leaving?” My face burned with humiliation. I turned and pushed open the door. As I left, I heard one of Nathan’s friends ask: “How do you argue with your stammering girlfriend anyway?” Sophia mumbled drunkenly: “It takes her three minutes to say one sentence. So stupid.” “…Last time she couldn’t get the words out, she almost cried from frustration.” Nathan let out a derisive laugh, his eyes overflowing with affection for Sophia. “You ungrateful little thing. You forget all the good I’ve done for you, and just get jealous of others.” “Nathan, when are you going to break up with the stammerer? Looks like you’ll be taking Sophia to a hotel tonight, huh?” another friend chimed in. Nathan leaned back on the sofa and said coldly, “She’s just a stammerer. I’ll dump her when I’m bored.” Then he looked at Sophia, a hint of something dark flashing in his eyes. “As long as it makes Sophia come back to me, it’s all worth it.” But he didn’t know that my stammer had already improved greatly. I had come tonight wanting to share the good news with him. Now it seemed there was no point.

I walked out of the bar in a daze. The sky was gray and it was still raining. A black Bentley was parked out front. I made my way to the car through the rain, wiping raindrops from my lashes. The window rolled down, revealing a sharp, handsome profile. The man inside wore a black suit that couldn’t hide his noble air. “Mr. Fu, I’m sorry to disappoint you,” I said softly. The cold man sitting in the car was Nathan’s older brother and the head of the Fu family business. Ethan. A few months ago, he had sought me out with a straightforward proposition. “Nathan is my brother, so I hope things go well between you two.” Presumably for the sake of his precious brother’s happiness, Ethan had brought in specialists from abroad and spent a great deal of money. That’s how my stammer had gradually improved. But now, Nathan no longer loved me. Ethan’s gaze shifted from his tablet to me. He uttered two words: “Get in.” I opened the car door, careful not to get water on the leather seats as I climbed in and huddled in the corner. Ethan had a unique aura about him. Dignified and reserved. Inspiring both respect and fear. He hung up a business call and turned to me. “So, want to consider liking someone else?” “What?” I met his cold, emotionless gaze, my heart tightening. Ethan spoke as if discussing a business deal. “You could marry me.” “Everything Nathan has, I have too. Even more.” “In terms of benefits, I’m the better choice.” Silence fell in the car after he finished speaking. Raindrops drummed on the roof. Like a frenzied symphony. I hadn’t processed his words yet. “Why…?” It seemed like he was… trying to steal his own brother’s girlfriend… Ethan’s lips curled slightly, his eyes still cold and clear. “You know Grandfather is pressuring me to get married. If you’re willing to help, all the better.” “As a reward, I’ll give you everything you want.” “Of course, you can refuse me. I’ll give you time to consider.” In that moment, I glimpsed a true businessman. Ethan was more mature and steady than Nathan. He knew how to control the big picture. And how to maximize benefits. The Fu family had saved my life. With such an enormous debt of gratitude, I didn’t seem to have grounds to refuse. Finally, I said carefully, “I’ll think about it. But if you find someone you like in the future, we should still get divorced.” Ethan’s gaze returned to his tablet. He said softly, “We’ll see when the time comes.”

That night, Ethan dropped me off at my rented apartment. I watched the black car disappear silently into the twilight, then opened my phone. Nathan had posted on social media a few minutes ago. The background was a hotel room. Sophia was curled up asleep beside him, her lips slightly swollen and her long hair disheveled. The caption read: “So obedient.” I looked up at the sky, taking several deep breaths to suppress the urge to break down. I sent Nathan a message saying “We need to talk.” He didn’t reply. It was as if he had died. I knew Nathan would never come back to me. For a whole month, Nathan completely disappeared. Finally, I gathered my courage and sent Nathan a breakup message. I blocked him on all platforms and married Ethan. Ethan was very busy with work and left on a business trip the day we got our marriage certificate. After leaving the civil affairs office, Ethan had his driver take me to his villa in the city center. He also had my things moved over from my rented apartment. On the third day after getting married, Ethan was still out of town. As night fell, the villa felt empty and quiet. I turned on a small lamp and walked into the master bedroom. The bedroom was done in gray and white, with a minimalist style and spacious layout. The walk-in closet next door was filled with Ethan’s expensive clothes and watches. And… a few of my clothes. At 10 PM, I heard the front door open. Thinking Ethan was back, I opened the bedroom door. A familiar voice drifted through the crack. It was Nathan. “My brother’s out of town. We’ll stay here tonight.” I heard Sophia’s breathless voice. “Nathan… I can’t breathe.” Nathan’s low chuckle. “You’ll have plenty to endure later.” In the silent, empty night, I curled up on the bed, listening to the sounds from next door, feeling like I couldn’t breathe. When Ethan pushed open the bedroom door, my eyes were swollen from crying. Teary-eyed, I asked, “Mr. Fu, why are you back early?” He had his jacket draped over his arm, as if he’d come straight from the front door. He hadn’t even taken time to put away his clothes. Travel-worn. His body carried the chill of the night air. “Why are you crying?” he asked. That cool tone somehow gave me an immense sense of security. He took off his watch and cupped my chin, leaning down. “This is your house. Why didn’t you ask them to leave?” The hot, rough touch of his fingers scorched my skin. My ears instantly turned red. “He’s your brother…” Ethan had been willing to cure my stammer for Nathan’s sake. What right did I have to throw out his own brother? Just then another strange sound came from next door. Sophia’s voice was soft and coquettish. I tried to get out of bed to find some earplugs, but in my haste I tripped over a stool. My knees hit the floor with a thud. “Ah…” I cried out in pain. Next door suddenly went quiet. Ethan sighed and bent down to pick me up. “What’s the rush?” He was carrying me out of the bedroom when suddenly there was a knock at the door. Nathan called tentatively, “Brother… did you… bring someone home?” The next second the doorknob started to turn. I froze, not daring to move. In the urgent moment, Ethan calmly supported me, pressing my back against the door. Frightened, I quickly wrapped my arms around his neck. Clinging to him like a koala. Hot and cold, our body heat intermingled. I looked down. His clear eyes reflected hints of lazy amusement. I had messed up his tie, exposing a small patch of his exquisite, tempting collarbone below his Adam’s apple. Ascetic yet alluring. It was really… unfair. “Mr. Fu…” My voice was trembling. I suddenly realized what a suggestive position we were in. Ethan suppressed the meaningful look in his eyes. “Can you moan?” I shook my head. Outside, Nathan was getting impatient. “Brother, open the door. Did you bring a woman home?” Ethan smiled at me, but his words held no warmth. “Do I need to report my love life to you?” He was clearly used to being dictatorial. Nathan choked. “I thought I heard—” “You heard wrong.” Ethan stroked down my waist, moving lower. As my breathing grew more rapid, he asked softly: “If you can’t moan, then sing.” “Don’t worry, your voice sounds good.” This was the first time anyone had complimented me. My face flushed red as I held back, not sure what came over me as I blurted out: “Little bunny, be good…” I stopped after half a line. Ethan was looking at me strangely. “That line is hard to resist,” he said, his voice tinged with teasing laughter. Like a feather, tickling my heart. I lowered my head, not daring to look at him. My face felt hot and red. Suddenly it went quiet outside. Nathan’s voice shook. “Brother, who exactly is your girlfriend?” Ethan locked the door with a click. In an unyielding tone, he said: “Tonight is my wedding night with your sister-in-law.” “She doesn’t like noise.” “So take your woman and get out.”

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Six months ago, my daughter was diagnosed with kidney failure and needed me to donate a kidney for her transplant. But on the eve of the surgery, I accidentally discovered that my daughter wasn’t sick at all! The one who really needed my kidney was my husband Jack’s ex-girlfriend’s son! It turned out to be a scheme set up by Jack to trick me into donating my kidney. My daughter was also a participant and accomplice in this deception. I was the only one kept in the dark! At that moment, ten years of marriage and family bonds crumbled, leaving only heartbreak and despair. I threw the divorce papers at Jack, along with custody of our daughter. I didn’t want it anymore. “Tricking you was wrong, but is divorce really necessary?” Jack frowned. “Besides, I just wanted you to donate a kidney. You won’t die from losing one, but Tommy will die in a few days without a good kidney.” I closed my eyes briefly and pushed the divorce agreement towards Jack. “Sign it.” “Look, you’ve been a housewife for ten years. You’re completely out of touch with society. I’ve been supporting you all these years. You can’t survive without me,” Jack shook his head helplessly. “Stop being unreasonable. Go to the hospital with me tomorrow for the kidney donation surgery. Don’t worry, I won’t look down on you for being partially disabled after the surgery. I’ll still give you a monthly allowance and take care of you.” “How dare you talk about divorce! You’re just a maid who eats and lives in our house,” my daughter Lily angrily shouted at me. “Besides, why won’t you donate? You’re only losing a kidney, but Tommy will lose his life!” I stared at her in disbelief, unable to believe my sweet daughter would say such things. “A woman like you with a ruined figure, average looks, and no skills – what man would want you if you left Dad? Even if you tried to throw yourself at a homeless person under a bridge, they wouldn’t want you!” Lily looked at me with disgust and held a mirror up to my face. “Look at yourself, you’re like a pig! Fat and ugly. It should be your honor to donate a kidney to Natalie’s son! Don’t be so ungrateful!” The person in the mirror looked haggard and aged, completely different from ten years ago. “Are you going to say again that you developed health problems from overworking during postpartum recovery, and that taking medication for years made you gain weight?” Lily rolled her eyes. “Please, don’t blame me for your laziness and lack of self-discipline. Natalie also had a child, so how come she’s still so slim?” I remembered how Lily never let me attend parent-teacher conferences. I thought she was being considerate of my weak health and inability to handle crowds. It turns out I was just deluding myself – she was actually ashamed of me. The family I thought was happy and complete turned out to be nothing but a mess.

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After I was forced to donate my kidney to my sister, she finally got pregnant with my husband’s child. My parents and brother took my savings, my car, and my house to congratulate the newlyweds. On their wedding day, my best friend – the only one who knew about my death – sent a row of funeral wreaths… along with my death certificate. I watched as a flicker of panic crossed the faces of my parents and brother, which had been cold towards me for over twenty years. On the day of Mark and Evelyn’s wedding, they each called me, wanting me to come back. Although the calls didn’t go through, it didn’t stop the three of them from discussing how to transfer my house to Mark and Evelyn. My dad said, “It’s just a house. Lily is being too stingy.” My mom said, “It’s been six months. Evelyn just had a kidney transplant and got pregnant. She needs someone to take care of her. Lily hasn’t even come to help.” My brother said, “Hmph, don’t let me see her. If I do, I’ll force her to sign over the house to Evelyn.” My dad took a deep breath and nodded, “That’s all we can do. If she won’t consider Evelyn’s needs on her own, we’ll have to make the decision for her.” They finished their discussion in a few sentences and turned their attention to wedding preparations. I floated in the air, watching them busily prepare for the wedding. Surprisingly, I felt no ripples in my heart. Perhaps it was because I had never felt any familial love from them. Even in death, I didn’t expect them to show any concern for me, who had been missing for six months. Because my sister needed cord blood, my 40-year-old mother desperately gave birth to me. Whenever my sister had a need, I, as her younger sister, had no right to say “no.” From something as big as a kidney to something as small as a pencil. This range also included my Harvard acceptance letter and my husband, Mark. Mark was a classmate I met after retaking the SATs and getting into Yale. We were in the same class. We got together because of our shared interests. We were very much in love and happy. So, with no one paying attention to me, we got married very smoothly after graduation. I think if it weren’t for that chance encounter with my sister on the street, I probably would have lived out my life peacefully like this. The first time my sister saw Mark, her eyes seemed to light up. It was a look I was all too familiar with. Since childhood, whenever she set her eyes on something, they would emit this light – that intense desire to possess, which loomed over me like a nightmare. I knew she had her sights set on Mark. And in the days that followed, she deliberately seduced him. From the moment Mark said, “I don’t think your sister is as bad as you say,” I watched them grow closer and more intimate. They even had sex in my house.

Before it happened, my parents gave me a report of uremia. It was my sister Evelyn’s. My father looked troubled and said, “I know it’s difficult to ask you to donate a kidney to your sister, but without your kidney, your sister will die.” My mother’s tears had already fallen. “Your sister is still so young. You’re sisters, you can’t not help her. If your father and I had kidneys that matched your sister’s, we wouldn’t have to come to you.” I looked at the report and at my birth parents. I asked, “Did Jack also do a kidney matching test?” Jack is my brother. Like my sister, he’s the apple of my parents’ eyes. From childhood, whatever my sister had, my brother had, and whatever my brother had, my sister also had. Only I… had nothing. My parents fell silent, their eyes not daring to meet mine. I tugged at the corner of my mouth, my heart like still water. Their attitude had already made it clear that they hadn’t planned to ask Jack to donate a kidney. In this family of five, if someone had to be sacrificed, it would definitely be me. If someone could benefit, it definitely wouldn’t be me. I refused my parents’ request. They started scolding me. They scolded me for being inconsiderate, for being ungrateful, for disregarding the bond between sisters. I walked in front, and they followed behind, scolding me. They didn’t care how passersby looked at them. They were determined to make me agree to donate the kidney. I didn’t listen or speak, letting them make a scene. Until we got home. I opened the door. The three of us simultaneously saw Evelyn and Mark, both naked, in the throes of passion. Actually, before this, I had already seen Mark and Evelyn’s chat history. The explicit content had made me nauseous for many days. Now, seeing their naked bodies entangled, I thought I would scream and go crazy, then pull away the blanket they were using to cover themselves and call the neighbors to come and see. But in reality, I was incredibly calm. I even managed to pull out a smile and say to my parents, “Under these circumstances, do you still want me to donate a kidney to her?” My parents looked embarrassed, but only for a moment. They quickly regained their composure and asked Mark and Evelyn to get dressed. Under my dad’s organization, the five of us sat on the sofa. The four of them sat together, opposite me. Looking at their happy faces, I felt I should take out my phone and take a “family photo” for them. In this marriage, I was the extra one. In this family, I was also the extra one. My dad broke the silence. He said, “Since this is the case, you and Mark should get divorced soon, while you don’t have children. Neither of you has lost anything.” My mom hesitated for a moment, but still bravely said what was on her mind: “Mark doesn’t have a future with you, but he’s still our son-in-law. In the future, when we meet, we’ll still be family.” The meaning was very clear. They had already accepted Mark and Evelyn. I had anticipated this outcome. When I looked through Mark and Evelyn’s phone chat history, I also saw their family group chat. In the family group, there was my dad, my mom, my sister, my brother, my husband, but I didn’t exist. That group had been established last year. The five of them would often inform Mark and Evelyn about my schedule in the group. Several times, to let Mark and Evelyn date smoothly, my brother, who disliked me, would ask me to go shopping, and my parents, who didn’t like me, would ask me to come home for dinner. During that half year, I once thought that I had finally gained the love of my family. I didn’t expect it to be just a fleeting illusion in the end.

Evelyn was already used to this kind of scene. Faced with my silence, she brought out her usual coquettishness, which only I found affected. “Lily, don’t blame Mom and Dad, and don’t blame Mark. If you want to blame someone, blame me. It’s all my fault.” I looked at her and said slowly, “Mm, it’s your fault. So are you going to kneel down and apologize to me?” Evelyn was momentarily speechless. At this moment, my mom’s eyes darted towards me: “How dare you speak to your sister like that? Apologize.” When Evelyn snatched my pencil, I cried and made a fuss. In the end, I apologized to Evelyn to end the matter. When Evelyn took my college acceptance letter, I still cried and made a fuss. Again, I apologized to Evelyn to conclude the affair. Now, my husband had been snatched by Evelyn. I didn’t cry or make a fuss, showing self-awareness, yet my birth mother still said that one word: “Apologize.” I smiled slightly and looked at my mother: “Alright, I’ll apologize.” I stood up and bowed 90 degrees to Evelyn. Then, devoutly and seriously, I said: “I’m sorry, sister. If I had known earlier that you liked Mark, I shouldn’t have married him. I should have sent Mark to your bed.” Hearing me say this, my parents and sister’s faces darkened slightly. Mark hadn’t expected me to be like this. He hurriedly stood up and supported me, his face full of guilt: “Don’t be like this, Lily. We’ve wronged you.” The guilty expression on his face should be genuine. Mark wasn’t someone who could pretend. I tried to find a hint of reluctance to part with me on his face. But his next words made me feel that the world’s malice towards me was truly great. Mark said: “Your sister’s uremia is in the late stage. If you don’t help her, she really has no way out. Lily, people have two kidneys, you won’t die with one less. Your salary is so high, with good care you can recover to a normal person’s level.” The guilt on his face was gone without a trace. Instead, it was replaced by full calculation. Pitiful calculation. At the mention of kidneys, Evelyn’s whole body weakened. Seeing Evelyn’s discomfort, my parents, along with Mark, pressured me. My dad said: “This is your sister, donating a kidney is your responsibility.” My mom said: “I gave birth to you because of your sister, you should be grateful.” Mark said: “Evelyn is the person I love most, I can’t live without her. For the sake of our past love, help us.” I didn’t have the ability to argue against the group. I also didn’t have the attitude to act weak and pitiful. I certainly didn’t have a compassionate heart that embraced all of humanity. So, I chose to escape. I fled that place empty-handed, not even taking the bankbook hidden in the cabinet. I refused their request. I refused to save Evelyn. I refused to be forced to give up everything like when I was a child. I’m grown up now, I have the ability to resist, I choose my own life, I protect my own body.

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In the third month of my pregnancy, my husband, a forensic expert, once again left me to attend a prenatal checkup alone. This wasn’t the first time. During my first checkup, his assistant was called out to a case, and I ended up spending the entire day waiting in the hospital lobby. On the second occasion, halfway to the hospital, he received a call from his assistant, left me on the side of the road, and rushed off. From the day we got married, whether it was a special occasion or a routine prenatal checkup, his assistant always seemed to find a reason to call him away. By the third time he abandoned me at the hospital, my heart was utterly broken. Yet, when I mentioned divorce and boarded a plane to go abroad, he went to great lengths to win me back. 1. At 10 weeks pregnant, Ethan hadn’t accompanied me to a single checkup. Today was the third one, and he had promised he’d stay with me until it was over. But soon after we arrived at the hospital, Chloe called. Ethan quickly pulled his hand away from mine, his expression softening as he answered her call. Chloe’s helpless voice came through the phone: “Mr. Ethan, I’m the only woman on the scene this afternoon, and I’ve never handled such a big case. I’m a bit scared.” Hearing this, Ethan covered the phone and looked at me apologetically. “Willa, there’s a major case at the department, and Chloe is inexperienced. I’m worried she can’t handle it.” “It’s just a routine blood test today. You can manage on your own, right?” Though phrased as a question, it was more of a statement. Despite this scenario playing out many times since we got married, I tried to suppress my anger and quietly asked, “But Ethan, I might faint during the blood test. Plus, the doctor said the early stages of pregnancy are very important. Could you please stay and listen to the doctor’s advice with me?” He frowned, clearly displeased. “Since when have you had a fear of blood? I wasn’t aware of that. I understand you have issues with Chloe, but this is work. Can you please not let your feelings interfere with my job?” Realizing he might have spoken too harshly, he quickly added, “Anyway, you’ll still have a long wait. I should be able to finish work and come to pick you up.” After saying that, Ethan ignored my reaction, reassured Chloe on the phone, and left without looking back. I stood there, stunned, holding the newly prescribed medicine. After three years of dating and two years of marriage, this wasn’t the first time Ethan had left me for Chloe. In the past, I’d probably have argued with him, questioning who his real wife was. Was my unborn child less important than an assistant? Why couldn’t he remember I had hereditary anemia, which made blood tests truly faint-inducing? But this time, I just felt profoundly exhausted. No matter what I said, Ethan’s excuses were always “work is busy” and “Chloe needs me more.” No matter what I did, in Ethan’s eyes, it was just me being jealous. River City was in the height of summer, and my body was weak from the pregnancy. The oppressive heat made me break out in a sweat, but my heart grew colder with each passing moment. I took a deep breath, clutching the prenatal checkup form tightly in my hand. I knew it was time to let this relationship go. 2. After the checkup, I went straight to the police station to tender my resignation to Officer Carter. “Beatrix, are you sure about resigning so suddenly? Does Ethan know?” Officer Carter was surprised by my resignation. As a specially appointed sketch artist for the police, I had helped solve numerous challenging cases over the years and had a promising future. I forced a smile and said, “I’ll tell him later, but he probably won’t care much.” “Sigh, back then, you two were the golden couple—the youngest and most promising forensic expert and the most capable sketch artist. When you got married two years ago, the Chief even officiated the wedding. Everyone thought you two were so happy…” Officer Carter sighed regretfully. Indeed, we were once the envy of others. But now, those memories were just that—memories. After handing over my work, I returned home at nine in the evening. The house was silent and empty. My phone displayed a new post from Chloe, specifically tagging me. “With Mr. Ethan by my side during my first big case, I wasn’t scared at all! To thank Mr. Ethan for taking me home, I’m treating him to a big meal tomorrow~ [heart][sun]” I knew Ethan, who had promised at noon to be home for dinner, wouldn’t be coming back. He had completely forgotten about picking me up from the hospital. In the two years since our marriage, such situations were countless. I cooked myself a bowl of noodles, filling my stomach, and then opened my email. Looking through the invitations from overseas universities in my inbox, I paused at the one from the Royal College of Art. Without much hesitation, I accepted the invitation and booked a flight to London for three days later. Five years ago, Ethan had gone to London for a transnational case. Upon returning, he fell seriously ill and was unwilling to speak about that city since. Not only did he avoid going there, but he also got agitated whenever I mentioned it. Ethan, once I’m in London, we’ll never see each other again. 3. The next morning, I started packing my luggage. Halfway through, Ethan returned, bringing with him a faint scent of perfume. I paused, slightly surprised. He never liked sweet and cloying perfume scents. Because of this, I rarely wore perfume while with him, switching to unscented or mild fragrances. It seems now, he just didn’t like me wearing perfume. Seeing me packing, his eyes flickered. “Last night there was a team dinner, and when it ended, Fiona didn’t look well, so I took her home first. It was too late, so I stayed the night at the duty room.” I looked up at him, feeling indifferent. In these two years of marriage, he rarely explained anything to me voluntarily. I nodded, not saying a word. He approached me and asked, “Are you going on a business trip?” I nodded. “Sort of.” He seemed relieved, pausing before saying, “I came back to get some documents. I won’t be home for lunch.” “Okay.” I didn’t look at him, just continued packing my luggage. Originally, I planned to discuss the divorce over lunch and inform him of my resignation from the department, formally ending our marriage. But it seemed there wouldn’t be a chance. After speaking, Ethan went to the study, took a file and a blue bag, grabbed his clothes hanging by the door, and rushed out. “Crash!” The photo together, hanging on the wall by the door for two years, suddenly fell and shattered as he left. Glass scattered everywhere. I turned to look. It was a picture Officer Carter took of us on our wedding day. In the photo, we were wearing bridal attire, closely leaning against each other, smiling happily. That day, he had promised to always respond, to be kind to me, to love me forever. But since Chloe appeared, all those promises turned into empty words. After a long silence, I slowly crouched down, carefully picking up the broken pieces. Then, I threw away the photo that once held such beautiful memories, along with my last lingering feelings for this relationship, into the trash can. 4. Late at night, after finishing everything, I lay in bed, my whole body aching. Suddenly, my phone rang with a voice message from my best friend, Fiona. “Beatrix, how can Ethan and that Chloe be so blatant about this?” “You haven’t even divorced yet, and they’re flaunting it like this. Ethan is too much!” Puzzled, I opened my phone to see a screenshot of Fiona’s social media feed. In the photo, Chloe wore a deep V-neck dress, her fair chest adorned with a dazzling diamond necklace. On the table corner was a blue bag—exactly the one Ethan took from home at noon. The caption read: “Thanks for the surprise gift, Mr. Ethan. Happy two-year anniversary!” I scrolled through my phone, instinctively glancing at the calendar. Two-year anniversary? Today was also my and Ethan’s two-year wedding anniversary. After our marriage, he was always busy. Busy with various cases, busy with Chloe’s numerous demands. We never celebrated an anniversary properly. Eventually, I even forgot those important days. I chuckled bitterly and replied, “Maybe he’s just taking care of a subordinate.” “Taking care? That’s not taking care; that’s blatant infidelity! Beatrix, what are you thinking? Are you really going to keep enduring this?” Listening to Fiona’s question, I fell silent. Indeed, was I really going to endure this forever? In these two years of marriage, Ethan had been called away by Chloe for various reasons, from holidays to even my birthday and our wedding anniversary. I thought having a child would settle him down. He promised to be a good father one day. But after I got pregnant, Chloe became even more unscrupulous. My pregnancy made me sleepy, and several times I woke up in the middle of the night to find Ethan gone. Even his rare rest time was occupied by Chloe’s calls, one after another. Facing Fiona’s questions, I remained silent. Is this truly something I should continue to endure? Throughout our two-year marriage, Ethan has been drawn away by Chloe for various reasons, even during important moments like holidays, my birthday, and our wedding anniversary. I hoped that having a child would encourage him to settle down. He had once promised to be a good father someday. But after I became pregnant, Chloe’s demands only grew bolder. During my pregnancy, I often found myself waking up alone in the middle of the night, realizing that Ethan had left without a word. Even the few breaks he had were consumed by Chloe’s constant calls. Now, even with a child, he’s left me alone at the hospital three times without a trace of guilt. I looked up at the ceiling, my eyes burning with unshed tears. What have these two years of marriage truly meant? I have no idea. Perhaps it was a mistake from the very beginning. 5. Around midnight, Ethan finally came home. He seemed a little tired, taking off his coat and instinctively reaching to hang it behind the door, only to notice the wedding photo was missing, making him pause.

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My wife was a well-respected pharmacologist. To spend what she thought were the last days with her first love, who had been diagnosed with cancer, she deceived me into taking a drug that wiped out my memory. During that time, she left her job to become his caretaker and even held a lavish wedding with him. Six months later, the hospital revealed that the cancer diagnosis was incorrect. But by then, I couldn’t remember her at all. In a panic and filled with regret, she confessed, “He was just a part of my youthful past; you are the only husband in my heart!” The door opened, and a young woman dressed in simple white entered. Upon seeing me on the sofa, her brow furrowed with impatience, “Didn’t I tell you not to wait up for me?” I responded with a faint smile, “You’re back so late; were you at the hospital with him?” Although phrased as a question, my tone was certain. Adeline’s first love had cancer and was not expected to live much longer. So, she had been leaving early and returning late to be with him. She even began cooking for his health, something she had never done before. But she seemed to forget, “Today is my birthday. I’ve been waiting for you.” Following my gaze, Adeline noticed the spread on the table. Her eyes briefly showed guilt, quickly replaced by anger, “Why are you being so petty! Asher is my first love, and he’s dying. What’s wrong with spending more time with him? Don’t forget, if I hadn’t broken up with him, I wouldn’t have married someone like you!” Indeed, I had been the one to push for our marriage. Adeline didn’t love me; she married me only because Caspian chose to go abroad. Unable to handle a long-distance relationship, she married me out of spite. Thinking of this, my heart felt tight, as if gripped by an invisible hand. Before I could say anything more, Adeline angrily slammed the bedroom door shut. In the darkness, I let out a bitter smile, picking up the “divorce agreement” from the coffee table to look at it again. Perhaps it was time to end this twisted marriage. … 10 PM. Before sleeping, Adeline knocked on my door—we had reached the point of sleeping in separate rooms after three years of marriage. She stood at the door in pajamas, still the vision that haunted my dreams, holding a glass of milk. “It’s late. Drink the milk and get some rest.” “Declan, I was wrong about earlier. I promise, after I accompany Asher through this, we’ll live well together. Just two months, two months…” I was surprised by her sudden change in attitude, moved by her words about living well, and didn’t notice the complex emotions in her eyes. As I finished the milk, I felt more and more dizzy. Adeline helped me to bed and tucked me in. Before I closed my eyes, I heard her say, “Forget me for now, just for two months…” Forget her? What did that mean? Soon, her actions answered my doubts. She took a pill from her pajama pocket, unwrapped it, and put it in my mouth. I wanted to stop her, but my body was too weak to resist, forcing me to swallow the bitter pill. As my consciousness blurred, a tear fell on my face. It was hers, and I keenly sensed it wasn’t shed for me. Indeed, “This is the latest drug from my lab. It can make someone temporarily lose memories of specific people, with no side effects. Declan, don’t blame me. I just want to fulfill a youthful dream. With you is life.” Living with me meant that Caspian was her love? I wanted to ask her, but I couldn’t utter a word, only letting the memories of her gradually erase from my mind. Chapter 2: Adeline’s Wedding The next morning, I was woken by an urgent phone call: “Son, open the door. Mom is outside.” I opened the door to see Mrs. Vaughn looking displeased, “I heard you had another fight with Addie?” “Who’s Addie?” She gave me a big eye roll, “You two always argue and then make up. Pretending not to know her isn’t funny. Let me tell you, Addie’s job keeps her busy. It’s just a birthday; what’s the difference with whom you spend it?” She waved a lunch bag, “I made lunch for you and Addie. Eat yours and take hers to her at work.” My mom kept nagging, but I was baffled—I’ve been single forever. How could I have a wife suddenly? Maybe my mom was getting senile? And if I was married, why didn’t my house show any signs of a woman’s presence? The bedroom was empty except for a bed, the wardrobe had only my clothes. Even the bathroom had only one toothbrush and toothpaste. I wandered around the house, finding no evidence of another resident. Just then, my mom pushed me in frustration, “Fine, I’ll call your wife myself.” Middle-aged Mrs. Vaughn pulled out her phone and quickly dialed my so-called “wife”: “Addie, it’s me.” “Hello, Auntie,” a cold and unfamiliar voice answered. Before my confused mom could ask, she explained, “I already divorced Declan, just yesterday. If you don’t believe me, the divorce papers on the coffee table will prove it.” I suppressed my shock, took the phone, and asked directly, “Since you say we’re divorced, when did it happen, and why?” So many questions weighed on my mind, but I picked the two most important. She was silent for a long time before speaking coldly, “Because of differences. I’m busy and career-oriented, and you want a housewife to serve you. Naturally, we parted ways—” “Nonsense!” My mom threw down the lunch box, angrily interrupting, “Adeline, you can say anything about my son, but don’t accuse him of wanting a maid. Have you ever cooked, done laundry, or cleaned the house in three years of marriage? If anything, he’s been the househusband!” I raised an eyebrow. Were we really married? Adeline seemed stung by my mom’s words and hurriedly ended the call with “I have things to do.” But my mom wasn’t done, rolling up her sleeves determinedly, “Something’s off with Addie. She’s hiding something from us. Son, I’ll find out and let you know.” A few days later, she dragged me from work to the city’s largest church. It seemed a wedding was happening there, beautifully decorated with many cars outside. As I looked around, I asked, “Mom, whose wedding is this? It’s pretty romantic.” I didn’t notice Mrs. Vaughn’s face darken. She gave me another eye roll. “Your ex-wife is marrying her new lover. That man doesn’t have long to live, and she wants to be with him in his final days. I brought you here to see her true colors, so you won’t foolishly pine for her again!” The wedding soon began. Chapter 3: He’s Just Your Lapdog I watched as a woman in a white wedding dress, guided by the priest, solemnly vowed, “I do. Rich or poor, in life or death, I will face hardships with him.” The man, Caspian, tearfully placed the ring on her finger. The crowd erupted in applause, celebrating the couple. But I was lost in thought. Adeline’s words were typical wedding vows, yet they stirred an old memory in me— In my memory, it was also a church scene. But Adeline’s expression lacked today’s shyness and joy. Her gaze at me was cold, as if looking at someone insignificant. If Mrs. Vaughn said we were once married, then the divorce must have been because she didn’t love me, right? If I didn’t love her, why would my heart ache like this? During intermission, I went to the restroom and saw Adeline and Caspian, now in reception attire. Adeline seemed surprised to see me, her guilt turning to anger. She let go of Caspian’s hand, ” Declan, didn’t I warn you that we’re divorced? Why are you following me? Your actions only make me hate you more!” Her voice was loud, drawing curious glances from passersby. “Addie, ignore him,” Caspian said soothingly, “He’s just your lapdog, struggling to accept your marriage to me.” I was stunned by their audacity, but I shot back, “Seriously, how can you be so shameless? I haven’t even accused you of cheating during our marriage or seducing a married woman, and you’re accusing me? The most important thing in life is a conscience.” I prolonged the last sentence, watching their faces darken. Eventually, Adeline pulled Caspian away angrily, tossing a parting shot at me, “Declan, don’t even think about getting me back!” “I wouldn’t want to.” Returning to my seat, I lost interest in the spectacle and left with my mom. Just as I was about to drive home, my phone rang.

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In the third year of our marriage, my wife sent me to a remote island. This was all because her idealized love claimed I had caused his blindness. My wife was furious with me and insisted I spend time on the island to reflect on my actions. Instead, I was bitten by a poisonous snake, which left my legs permanently damaged. When I finally left the island, my wife arrived with her idealized love. As she cursed me, I felt nothing. To my surprise, when I asked for a divorce, she lost her composure. She cried and knelt, begging me not to leave… “Mr. Evan, Ms. Harper sent us to fetch you. You can leave here now.” Seeing a group of bodyguards arrive on the island, my first instinct was to tremble. Even after they explained their purpose, I remained curled in a corner, trying to cover the festering wound on my ankle with my hands, desperately trying to make myself unseen. I had been trapped on this island for three years. For three long years, Harper never once came to see me. Whenever I closed my eyes, I could recall all that I had endured during those years. With no food on the island, I had to beg and endure suffering just to get a little sustenance. Not long ago, I was bitten by a poisonous snake, which left my legs useless. Noticing my prolonged silence, the lead bodyguard frowned, “Mr. Evan, you can come with us now.” I blinked in a daze and pointed at my swollen, discolored ankle, “I can’t walk.” There was a moment of silence. The bodyguards seemed unprepared for this and hastily called for a wheelchair, placing me in it. Once I was seated, I silently let them take me away. When I was wheeled to the front of Harper’s villa, I couldn’t stop trembling once more. A few seconds later, I saw Harper as expected. She was in a high-end outfit, holding onto Ezra’s arm, looking starkly different from my pitiful state. Seeing me in the wheelchair, Harper seemed slightly displeased. “Why so delicate? After all these years of reflection, and you can’t even walk?” Her tone was dripping with sarcasm. Over the years, Harper hadn’t bothered to ask about my situation, so she naturally didn’t know that my legs were crippled. As the bodyguards moved forward to explain, I remained emotionless in the wheelchair. Harper seemed surprised by my condition and frowned as she approached me. As she got closer, I recoiled sharply! “Please… please! I was wrong, I was wrong, I deserve to die…” It was almost an instinctive reaction. I hunched over, beginning to apologize frantically. Harper was taken aback. She stopped, seemingly puzzled as to how the once-proud me had become like this.

Harper appeared as though she wanted to approach me, but Ezra, standing beside her, held her arm more tightly. “Yanyan, my eyes hurt.” I lifted my head slightly, noticing Ezra’s unfocused gaze. Harper’s expression changed instantly. Ignoring me, she instructed the bodyguards to lock me inside the villa first, as she needed to accompany Ezra to the hospital. As they passed me, Harper didn’t spare me a glance, while Ezra smirked mockingly, as if laughing at my helplessness. My hands, gripping the wheelchair, trembled incessantly. Years ago, it was because of Ezra that Harper banished me to the remote island. I was an eye surgeon, and Ezra was my patient. During surgery, his eyes inexplicably lost sight. Despite numerous doctors testifying that it wasn’t the surgery’s fault, Harper insisted I was a villain trying to harm Ezra and exiled me to the island for reflection. Years apart, Harper and Ezra were closer than ever. There seemed no place for me here. The bodyguards seemed ready to push me into the villa, but I quickly stopped them, quietly begging for some food. The bodyguard hesitated; perhaps I looked too frail, so he complied. When I was wheeled into a nearby convenience store, I heard a surprised voice. “Dr. Evan? How are you here?” I hunched over, trying hard to minimize my presence. No one had called me a doctor in a long time. On the island, those who brought me food would humiliate me daily, saying I wasn’t worthy of being a doctor. Now, hearing the word doctor made me tremble. How could I ever pick up a scalpel again? “Dr. Evan?” She called a few more times. Maybe seeing no response, she walked toward me. But I could only keep my head down, constantly denying. “You’ve got the wrong person. I’m not Dr. Evan. I’m worthless. I shouldn’t harm people. I’m not worthy of being a doctor…” Hearing my words, she was stunned. The next second, she suddenly held my shoulder: “Calm down, Evan. I’m your former patient. Do you remember me?” She repeated it several times before I slowly looked up. Seeing this familiar face, I finally remembered. It was Stella. She had an eye infection before and nearly went blind. I saved her eyes after a day of emergency treatment. Chapter 2 After that, Stella was always very grateful to me. Sweat still beaded on my forehead, but my heartbeat finally calmed down. Stella looked at me in shock, seemingly unable to believe how much I’d changed. I breathed heavily, unable to utter a single word. There were still bodyguards around. Stella glanced around, as if realizing something, and whispered if I wanted to leave with her. Once I finished eating, I’d be taken back to Harper’s villa. What awaited me could be more humiliating punishment. She always treated me like a criminal, and there was no way she’d let me off easily. I clutched Stella’s wrist tightly, nodding with tears in my eyes. Taking advantage of the moment when the bodyguards were buying food, Stella abruptly pushed my wheelchair and took me out of the convenience store. Footsteps immediately sounded behind us! Stella calmly hid me in a nearby alley. After they split up to search, she took me to her car. She currently lived in a high-rise apartment. Once at Stella’s home, my numb nerves finally relaxed a bit. She warmed up some food for me and asked what had happened. I just shook my head, unable to say a word. On the island, I endured inhuman torment. But what was the point of speaking about it? Everyone thought I was the sinner who caused Ezra’s blindness. Harper was eager for my death. What was the point of saying anything? Seeing I wouldn’t talk, Stella didn’t press. She just gave me a key, telling me I could stay as long as I wanted. “Just stay. I can afford to support you. We can talk when you’re ready to leave.” She playfully patted my shoulder. I was somewhat grateful. Judging by my appearance, I must have gone through something awful, but Stella didn’t pry since I wasn’t willing to share. So, I stayed at Stella’s place. But I knew it was only a matter of time before Harper found me. She was incredibly powerful. What couldn’t she do? Sure enough, within a few days, Harper broke down Stella’s door and dragged me out.

That day, I was on the balcony watching the clouds outside. Suddenly, there was a loud banging on the door. I got startled and instinctively hid to the side. In a few seconds, the door collapsed. Harper, in high heels, immediately spotted where I was hiding and came over to grab my hand. “Evan, you are still my husband. Who gave you permission to hide here?” Faced with Harper’s scolding, my face turned pale as if drained of blood. “I’m sorry… I’m sorry… I’m worthless… I’m wrong…” Her grip on my wrist was so strong, it felt like she was pulling me back into those dark days. I closed my eyes, replaying the scenes of others tormenting me in my mind. Harper was startled by my reaction and stepped aside: “Evan, what’s wrong with you?” I said nothing, so she assumed I was angry and frowned, telling me not to throw a tantrum. “You harmed Ezra. I didn’t send you to prison, just punished you a bit. And you act like this? Do you know how much Ezra suffered because of you? He’s an artist, but his eyes can’t see now! I know you hate him, but how can you be so cruel!” “I honestly wish it was you who went blind. You’re as useless as a cripple anyway.” I kept my head down, silently enduring Harper’s insults. Eventually, Harper got tired of cursing and rolled her eyes, forcibly dragging me up and handing me to two bodyguards. I was dragged to the ground floor and into Harper’s car. Afraid of angering Harper, I tried my best to shrink into a corner to diminish my presence. I didn’t speak the entire way. Harper didn’t start any conversation either. Occasionally, when she looked at me, her eyes were full of impatience. When I was pushed out of the car and saw our destination, I collapsed, kneeling before Harper, begging her not to take me inside. She was taking me to the hospital where I used to work. Why go there? To show my colleagues what I had become? In the past, I was the most famous doctor in ophthalmology, performing countless complex surgeries, and received numerous honorary banners. Now, I was like a dog. Harper mercilessly ordered the bodyguards to place me in a wheelchair. I continued sobbing uncontrollably. A few seconds later, Harper frowned again: “Evan, what’s wrong with you now? I’m just bringing you to the hospital to treat your legs. You are my husband. I can’t just leave your legs crippled.” Here we go again. She always claimed I was her husband. So she had the right to discipline and punish me on behalf of Ezra, to bully and control me in the name of being a wife, to strip away everything from me. Once inside the hospital, several young nurses recognized me, looking at me with a mix of disbelief and pity. Harper brusquely ordered the bodyguard to put me in a wheelchair. I was still crying uncontrollably. Seconds later, Harper frowned, “Evan, what’s wrong with you now? I just brought you to the hospital to treat your leg. You’re my husband, and I can’t just ignore your injury.” Here we go again. She always calls me her husband, as if that justifies her disciplining me, retaliating on Ezra’s behalf, and controlling every aspect of my life. As I was wheeled into the hospital, a few young nurses recognized me, their eyes filled with disbelief and pity. I avoided their gaze. Their pity felt worse than death. As Harper was about to take me upstairs, I spoke up. “Harper.” She looked annoyed when she heard her name, “What do you want now? Can you stop being dramatic for a moment?” I took a deep breath. After a moment, I finally gathered the courage to say what I’d been wanting to say. “Harper, let’s get a divorce.” The hallway fell silent. Harper suddenly looked down at me, “What’s your problem?! Are you trying to act pitiful now?” I really wanted a divorce, but she thought I was playing some psychological game. Harper then hurriedly wheeled me into the department. A few orthopedic specialists were already waiting inside. After taking X-rays and running a series of tests, a specialist who seemed about sixty hesitated before speaking, “Ms. Harper, Mr. Evans’ injury… there’s nothing we can do.” I numbly lifted my head. It meant I was beyond saving. I should have seen it coming. “If it had been caught in time, we could have done something… but it’s been too long, and Mr. Evans didn’t treat the wound at all… the infection is too severe,” the specialist sighed, looking at me with deep regret. After being bitten by a venomous snake, there was no medical kit on the deserted island. I begged the guards for help, but they ignored me. I could only endure for several days, suffering high fevers, until I somehow improved, but the injury left me unable to walk. Harper’s face looked terrible. She waved her hand and brought in another batch of doctors, but the diagnosis was the same—they couldn’t restore my leg. Suddenly, Harper slammed her hand on the table! She pointed at me, speaking slowly, “I’ll figure something out for your leg. As for the divorce, don’t even think about it. You’ll stay in the hospital for now.” Harper gave her order as if it were nothing. A nurse then knocked on the door, informing Harper that a woman named Stella was looking for me and threatened to call the police if she couldn’t see me. Hearing that name, Harper slapped me across the face. “Evan, I can’t believe you’re still fooling around even with a broken leg!” Looking at Harper’s furious face, I covered my injured cheek and lifted my head. “Stella is not like you. Don’t think everyone’s like you.” At this point, I was completely disillusioned with Harper. She wanted to say something, but I continued, “You know very well what your feelings for Ezra are.” Perhaps feeling a bit guilty, Harper didn’t say anything further and just had someone take me to an adjacent room. Probably because I was too tired, I fell asleep as soon as I lay on the bed. There were guards outside the room, but I heard footsteps. I opened my eyes and saw Ezra’s face. It was like muscle memory; seeing him made me tremble involuntarily. He just chuckled calmly, waving his right hand in front of me, “Awake?” I saw the wedding ring on his ring finger. Harper had originally spent millions to customize it for me, but after I was abandoned on the deserted island, she took it back. I thought she had thrown it away, but she had given it to Ezra. Sensing my fear, Ezra chuckled, “Look how obedient you are now, huh? I should have let Harper leave you there a bit longer. Weren’t you always so proud? How does it feel to be broken?” He knew everything. I pointed to the door, telling him to leave. As soon as I finished speaking, Harper appeared at the doorway. “Evan, how can you talk to Ezra like that?” Ezra didn’t have a cane but stumbled towards Harper’s voice, standing by her side. Harper’s eyes were filled with such deep affection for Ezra it was almost tangible. Facing me, Harper’s tone turned cold again, “I should have left you there for another year.” Hearing this, I rolled off the bed with a thud, crawled to Harper’s feet, and kept begging, even as my forehead was covered in blood, “Don’t send me back there… please…” Harper was shocked, quickly telling Ezra to leave, saying she needed to talk to me. But I was too traumatized, only knowing to keep pleading. Just as Harper was about to help me up, a doctor walked in. He looked seriously at Harper, “After conducting an investigation over the past few days, we’ve found something odd. The snake that bit Mr. Evans shouldn’t have been on that deserted island, and it was too coincidental that it only bit Mr. Evans’ ankle… so we believe…” “Mr. Evans being bitten was likely due to human intervention…” Harper’s face turned pale, seemingly in disbelief. She took the investigation report from the doctor’s hand. My numbed nerves finally had a bit of reaction. Human intervention? Meaning someone deliberately hurt me… It seems the text you wish to translate is missing. Could you please provide it? ### Chapter 4 Harper suddenly turned to me. “Evan, tell me everything that happened to you during those years on the deserted island.”

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On our fifth wedding anniversary, Emily went hiking and didn’t return all night. It was pouring rain, and I was frantic with worry. After alerting the police, I organized a search party. We discovered her sharing a sleeping bag with her childhood friend, Alex, both enveloped in a close embrace and a kiss. When she saw me, she had an explanation ready. “He has a congenital heart condition, and I was afraid he’d get hypothermia, so I stayed with him!” Alex clutched his chest, feigning distress. “Don’t be angry with her; she was just concerned for me…” I noticed her clothes, including intimate wear, scattered beside the sleeping bag. With a sardonic smile, I taunted them. “You two have been friends since childhood, so is sharing a sleeping bag a big deal? Mind if I join?” When I said this, my friends who had come to search with me couldn’t help but snicker. Despite being soaked by the rain and anxious over Fiona’s disappearance, witnessing their kiss left me feeling hollow. Fiona glared at me, her face flushed with anger, a silver thread at the corner of her mouth from their hasty separation. “Jude, what do you mean by that? Are you doubting me?” I applauded her performance with a cold smile. “How could I doubt you? Why not consider my suggestion?” Beyond witnessing their kiss, I saw Fiona’s underwear among the clothes. Before Fiona could respond, someone came to her defense. “Jude, you can’t talk like that. Fiona is a doctor. She must be worried about Gideon.” It was Fiona’s best friend, speaking as if I were the one being unreasonable. I glanced at her, then stepped forward to pick up Fiona’s bra from the pile, waving it around. Her expression froze, wanting to speak but remaining silent. “I never knew that not wearing clothes is the best way to stay warm.” “Having just me isn’t enough for a woman like you, apparently.” I said coldly, mocking her. Fiona was furious and shouted back. “Shut up! I’m your wife; how dare you speak to me like that?!” She trembled, trying to snatch the underwear from me but failing. Fiona looked at me in disbelief, as if seeing me for the first time. I used to be completely under her control, doing everything she asked because I loved her. But this incident shattered everything, leaving nothing to ignore. “Fiona, don’t be mad.” At this point, Gideon coughed a few times, holding his chest. He emerged from the sleeping bag in his underwear, handing her a jacket. Fiona was all about Gideon, heartbroken by his cough. “Gideon, I’m fine. It’s your health we should be worried about…” Then she rebuked me, “See, I was really worried about Gideon’s health, and you still doubt me!” I felt exhausted, not even wanting to argue anymore. Gideon coughed, and she was heartbroken, but I searched for her for hours in soaked clothes, ignored by her. I used to overlook this double standard, but now I’m curious how I endured it. “Never mind. After we divorce, you’ll have all the time to care for Gideon. How you care for him then is none of my business.” The word “divorce” made Fiona pause and frown at me. “It’s just a small thing; why talk about divorce?” I chuckled, mocking her. “Of course, to make it easier for you to care for Gideon. If he’s a doctor’s family member, it’s more convenient, right?” “By the way, after that kiss, check for STDs.” “Don’t involve me in that mess.” Gideon turned pale and fainted at my words. Fiona ignored everything else, got up, and grabbed the clothes from me to put on. She glared at me, full of hatred, and slapped me. “Jude, if something happens to Gideon, I won’t let you off!” “You’ll be a murderer!” Fiona called 911 and took Gideon to the hospital. I stood there, the sting from her slap making me painfully aware. I laughed bitterly. When we first got together, I had checked on Gideon. He doesn’t have a heart condition; it was all an act. Yet even an act could fool Fiona completely. When I returned home, dawn was breaking. The rain left me dizzy, so I took medicine and slept. Half-asleep, I heard the door open.

Fiona approached the bed, reeking of alcohol. The smell made me wrinkle my nose. Didn’t she take Gideon to the hospital? Why is she back drunk? Before I could figure it out, she pulled me up forcefully. “Jude, what’s gotten into you today? Why did you say those things in front of everyone?” “Why argue with a patient? Don’t you have any empathy?” Fiona’s face was flushed, acting all wronged. She questioned me as if she hadn’t been in a sleeping bag with Gideon. Being yanked from sleep, I naturally wasn’t in the mood for pleasantries. Besides, I was done with her, not planning to have any more ties. She was always so proud, thinking I was her loyal dog, no matter how she hurt me, I’d stick around. But seeing her kiss Gideon, my blood froze. I dared not imagine what I’d see if I had come later. Seeing my silence, she angrily pointed at me and shouted. “You almost gave Gideon a heart attack, and you’re playing silent?!” I looked at Fiona and coldly replied. “Aren’t I just helping you two out? You even went hiking and slept together.” “Didn’t you say if he hadn’t left, you would’ve married him? We divorce, I give him the spot, isn’t that good?” Fiona hesitated, not expecting me to bring up the past. “What nonsense! Gideon and I grew up together, there’s nothing like that!” “We slept together as kids, why can’t you let it go!” She angrily threw a gift box at my face. “Even bought you a gift to make up!” The box hit my nose, blood dripping, staining the tie that fell out. I looked at the tie and sighed. I’ve received seven or eight identical ties. Seeing my nosebleed, Fiona panicked, trying to wipe it but I stopped her. Seeing me hurt, she softened her tone. “Jude, I don’t want to fight. Let’s each take a step back and move on.” “I promise, once Gideon is well, I’ll leave him alone.” This was the first time she lowered herself, at the cost of my injury. Hearing her say she’d leave Gideon, I chuckled. “Stop giving him those prescription drugs, and he’ll be fine.” Fiona, as a doctor, secretly gave Gideon illegal prescription drugs with strong side effects and addiction. She knew, but she’d do anything for her childhood friend. I felt utterly drained, unwilling to talk more, packed and headed to work. Before leaving, Fiona quietly pleaded for me to stay. Seeing my resolve, she glared at me. “Jude, you’re so ungrateful! Don’t come back if you leave!” I turned away without regret. She still thought showing weakness would mean I’d forgive her endlessly. But that was based on love. Now there’s none, it’s all empty.

“Mr. Jude, your wife is here.” My assistant rushed into my office. I’ve been staying at the office, but I’d told my assistant not to let Fiona in. I was exhausted, having focused solely on her, I’d neglected work. Taking the reins now, I felt overwhelmed. Before I could respond, Fiona barged in with a cake. Her eyes lit up seeing me, putting the cake down and crossing her arms. “Jude, I missed our anniversary, and you missed my birthday.” “We’re even.” She didn’t wait for my reply, saying it all herself. I was speechless. I’d been so busy I forgot Fiona’s birthday. Since being with her, her birthday was my top priority. I’d always prepare in advance to surprise her. When she saw me, her eyes brightened as she placed the cake on my desk and crossed her arms, looking at me with a sense of superiority. “Jude, I missed our anniversary, and you missed my birthday. So, we’re even now.” She didn’t wait for my response and continued talking on her own. I was left speechless. I’ve been so caught up with work that Fiona’s birthday slipped my mind. Ever since we started dating, her birthday was a day I never failed to plan for, always trying to surprise her. Yet, no matter what I did, she never seemed to care. Meanwhile, Gideon could do the smallest thing, and she’d be touched for days. Last year, I went all out, taking her to her favorite place, buying expensive front-row concert tickets for her favorite singer, and even spending half a month at a temple praying for a peace charm. But none of this made her as happy as the roadside flower Gideon gave her, which is ironic since she’s allergic to pollen. Forgetting her birthday this time felt like a weight off my shoulders, a sign that I was finally moving on. I looked at Fiona’s haughty demeanor, my expression icy. “Do you really think we’re even?” “Maybe I should spend a night with my ex, then.” Predictably, Fiona was furious. She lashed out at me. “Jude, how did you become like this?” “You’re my husband, and you forgot my birthday. Only Gideon remembered!” Her accusation was laughable because she forgot that I had never missed her birthday before. “Fiona, I think I’ve made myself clear. There’s nothing between us anymore.” “We’re getting a divorce, and I’ll make room for Gideon. It’s that simple.” Gideon always enjoyed Fiona’s favoritism, while I naively believed that time would eventually win her over. I was so wrong. Fiona’s expression wavered, as if she couldn’t believe I was serious. She lit the candles on the cake and said, “Didn’t you promise to grant my birthday wish every year?” I frowned, sensing something. “This year, my wish is for you to forgive me.” “Okay?” Unexpectedly, I saw a hint of vulnerability on her face, but I quickly realized it was just a façade. I shook my head and said bluntly, “If you really wanted to be with me, you wouldn’t keep falling for Gideon’s lies.” I looked at her, and all the past emotions were gone. “You’re a doctor and his childhood friend. Don’t you know if he has a congenital heart condition?” That statement ignited the awkward tension between us. Fiona threw the cake at me, nearly hitting my eye with the candle. “You’re still slandering Gideon!” Her chest heaved with anger, her eyes filled with hatred. “I misjudged you. You’re a company owner, so why do you have to be against Gideon?” “How could I not know if he has a heart condition? You’re just ignorant of his suffering to say such disgusting things!” With that, she turned and left, leaving only her determined back. I signaled to my stunned assistant. “Draft a divorce agreement for me.” I thought everything was settled, just waiting for the papers to be signed. But that night, Fiona called, her voice tearful. “Jude, come quickly. Daphne is in trouble!” Daphne is our daughter, spending her summer vacation with my mother. Hearing something happened to her, I rushed home. The only thing holding me back from divorcing Fiona was Daphne. I didn’t want her to grow up in a broken family. Chapter 4 I hurriedly opened the door and saw someone who shouldn’t be there. Gideon was there, holding a sobbing Fiona, comforting her. “It’s okay, it’s okay. We’ve done this so many times, and nothing happened, right?” Their clothes were disheveled, Fiona’s bra hanging loosely. I didn’t understand their cryptic talk and rushed to push them aside, looking at Daphne on the couch. She was foaming at the mouth, unconscious. Panic overwhelmed me, and I went to call 911, but Fiona stopped me. “No, you can’t.” I looked at her awkward expression and shouted. “Are you crazy? Daphne is your daughter too, how can you just let her die?!” Fiona couldn’t hide it anymore and confessed everything. It turns out they found Daphne noisy, so they gave her too many prescription meds. It wasn’t the first time, but this time Gideon gave the wrong medicine, causing an allergic reaction. Fiona grabbed my hand, gritting her teeth. “If anyone finds out I stole prescription meds, I’ll lose my job, and Gideon will go to jail.” She almost begged. “I’m a doctor. I know Daphne’s condition, she just needs some meds.” “You’re the boss, you have money, can’t you find a shady clinic for her? Don’t let anyone know.” I looked at Fiona in silence. She knew she was a doctor. Daphne is only four, and many prescription drugs have strong side effects even for adults, let alone a four-year-old. My heart turned cold, and any last bit of love for Fiona vanished with her words. Even in the wild, animals protect their young, yet she would risk Daphne’s life to save herself and Gideon. Compared to the panicked Fiona, Gideon was calm. He seemed sure I would help Fiona. “Jude, stop wasting time. Hurry and find a hospital to take her.” “Don’t let her die here, it’s bad luck.” He looked at Daphne with disgust, as if she was a piece of garbage he could toss anytime. I couldn’t take it anymore and punched Gideon to the ground. Then pointed at Fiona, speaking clearly. “Fiona, we’re completely over.” I’m sorry, but the input text for translation seems to be missing. Could you please provide the Chinese text that you would like translated? Chapter 5 I called emergency services and reported the situation. Click. I locked the door and gave a steely glare to the two anxious people in the room. “You’re not going anywhere with me here.” The police and ambulance arrived almost simultaneously.

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At Finn’s birthday party, Daphne burst in with no clothes on. “My sister cut up my clothes and said I’m nothing but an adopted stray in the Carter family, unworthy of attending Finn’s birthday…” Finn believed I was being spiteful and sent me off to Mermaid Island to reflect on my actions. The next time we met, I was holding raw fish in my hand. “Sister, don’t you love raw fish? I’ll make sure you get your fill.” Finn tossed me into an aquarium, thinking I’d plead for mercy. Little did they know, I had already transformed into a mermaid; this was my realm. 01 Six months later, Declan Carter arrived on a lavish yacht with our parents and a host of friends to bring me back. They dressed me in a pure white gown. As I faced the crowd’s amazed and inquisitive stares, I blinked blankly, my pupils reflecting a peculiar blue-green hue in the sunlight. Declan scrutinized me with a probing gaze: “Nora Carter, I hope this time you’ll have learned your lesson and won’t let me down again.” I slightly tilted my head, instinctively licking my dry lips with curiosity. Declan paused at my gesture, then showed a hint of satisfaction: “It seems the island has indeed washed away your hostility. I’ve prepared a welcome party for you on the cruise ship to celebrate your return to the family.” He reached out to take my hand, but the instant his fingertips touched my skin, he quickly pulled back. “Why is your body so cold?” His words were complex, and I struggled to comprehend them. Cora Bennett came over and took Declan’s arm: “Declan, sister has been at sea for six months and has gotten used to the seaside climate, so her body temperature is naturally different from ours.” A warning alarm went off in my head, an instinctual sense of threat making me tense up. I instinctively backed away, a low, strange, dolphin-like sound escaping my throat, and my feet unconsciously came together. Cora covered her face, almost crying: “Sister… do you still hate me? I… I only wanted to care for you…” Declan immediately shielded Cora behind him, angrily scolding me: “Nora Carter! Cora is kind and pure, always thinking of you. Why can’t you learn from her tolerance and generosity?” Our parents also came over, looking at me with disappointment and heartache. “Nora, the Carter family doesn’t lack another mouth to feed. Cora just wants to fit into this family. Can’t you tolerate her? Don’t be so narrow-minded!” “Your brother sent you here for your own good. Why haven’t you made any progress at all?” The accusations and misunderstandings swarmed me like a tide. I felt extremely uneasy and scared, wanting only to find a place to hide. I saw a large decorative glass aquarium not far away. The clear water and swaying aquatic plants gave me an inexplicable sense of closeness and safety. Ignoring everything, I ran toward the aquarium, wanting to climb inside. “Nora Carter! What madness are you up to now!” Declan roared as he rushed over, grabbing my arm to pull me back. He pulled too forcefully, and with a rip, a patch of skin on my arm came off, revealing newly grown, pearl-like scales beneath! The intense pain made me cry out in a dolphin-like wail. I curled up on the ground in pain, rubbing my arm against the cold deck to ease the burning pain, then shrank in horror into a corner, my body curling up. Declan stared at the piece of skin in his hand, with bloodstains and strange scales, his pupils contracting as if struck by lightning. Disregarding his image, he squatted down: “Nora… what’s happened to your skin? What’s wrong with you? Are you feeling unwell somewhere?” Cora immediately interjected: “Brother! The UV rays on the island are so strong, sister’s skin is delicate, she must have gotten sunburned and peeled! It’s all my fault. If it weren’t for me, brother wouldn’t have been angry and sent sister to the island…” “Sunburn?” 02 Mom came over, looking at the small, neatly arranged scales exposed on my arm, which, though tiny, reflected a strange luster in the sunlight, definitely not the appearance of sunburn. Her face turned pale, lips trembling, as if she wanted to say something but was choked by overwhelming shock. Dad also gasped, pointing at my arm, his voice trembling, “What… what is this?” Declan’s face instantly turned exceedingly grim. He grabbed my shoulders abruptly, forcibly dragging me out from the corner and exposing me to everyone. “Nora Carter! Are you playing the sympathy card again to make us feel guilty, even at the cost of hurting yourself?” The scales I had just grown were painfully abraded by the rough deck, even seeping with blood droplets. Declan remained indifferent, his eyes coldly fixed on me: “I just sent you to the island for six months to enjoy the natural scenery. Do you have to resort to self-harm to get back at me?” I didn’t understand his anger, and the weakness from blood loss and pain made me desperately need to replenish my energy. On the banquet table was a platter of fresh fish for sashimi, one of which, probably due to lack of oxygen, jumped onto the floor. The fresh, ocean-scented vitality instantly captured all my attention. A glimmer of desire flashed in my eyes, and almost on instinct, I lunged forward without hesitation. Under everyone’s horrified gaze, I bit into the struggling fish, tearing it apart in a few bites, then swallowing it with satisfaction, even leaving traces of blood and scales at the corner of my mouth. Mom let out a shrill scream, almost fainting, “Is this still my daughter? What did you go through on the island? How… how did you end up like this?” Declan’s face turned as white as paper, “Nora… I know you’re afraid of water. But apart from being remote, it’s just an ordinary island! Even if you’re mad at me, you don’t have to degrade yourself like this.” Before he finished speaking, Cora suddenly knelt on the ground with a “thud,” crying and slapping her own face. “It’s all my fault! I ruined sister! If it weren’t for me, sister wouldn’t have become like this! Brother, Mom, Dad, take sister back. Let me stay on the island, redeeming sister’s sins!” Mom’s cries stopped abruptly. She pointed at me, her voice sharp and scolding: “Nora Carter! Look at what you’ve become! To drive Cora away, you degrade yourself to this extent! Eating raw fish! Aren’t you disgusted? How could the Carter family raise a daughter like you?” Declan’s eyes were bloodshot, staring at me as if he wanted to pierce through me. He suddenly let out a low laugh, but it carried a chilling coldness: “Sister, don’t you like eating raw fish? Then I’ll make sure you eat your fill.” He snapped his fingers, and immediately, a servant brought over a large tank filled with ice and live fish, placing it heavily in front of me. His cold gaze cut through me like a knife: “Either apologize to Cora and promise never to bully her again, or I’ll throw you into this tank!” Seeing I had no reaction, only warily eyeing the tank, a fleeting hesitation crossed Declan’s eyes but was quickly masked by anger. “Throw her in! Let her out when she admits her mistake!” 03 The bodyguards ignored my struggle, lifting me up and throwing me into the icy water tank! The ice-cold water enveloped me, its biting chill making me shiver violently. However, as the water flowed over my skin, especially touching the more pronounced mutations on my legs hidden by the long dress, a strange comfort and sense of belonging emerged. Water… I really liked it. The fish in the tank, startled, scattered everywhere, their bodies brushing against my skin and bringing waves of tingling itchiness. Declan and everyone else stood outside the tank, waiting to see me scream in terror and beg for mercy. Cora nestled beside Declan, her eyes gleaming with pleasure. Once, I was indeed terrified of water, scared to death. But the six months of transformation on the island had long stripped fear from my bones. The research institute people, to enhance my underwater survival ability, had thrown me into deep seas filled with various aggressive marine creatures. Fish, in my eyes, were no longer things to fear but rather… kin, or food. In the stunned gaze of everyone, instead of screaming, I slowly relaxed my body, stretching out my limbs. The cold water brought me an unprecedented calm. I reached out and gently caught a small fish swimming to my mouth. Declan’s certainty and anger gradually turned into disbelief and shock. He didn’t know a small fish couldn’t satisfy my body’s energy needs. And this tank of lively fish was an unexpected gift for me. Under the almost tearing gaze of Declan and my parents, I suddenly opened my mouth and bit down hard on the fish in my hand! Blood spread through the clear water. “Nora! Stop it.” Declan roared, ignoring the icy seawater, reaching into the tank and pulling me out, snatching the struggling fish from my hand and throwing it away. He held me tightly, his voice trembling uncontrollably, “Nora, let’s not do this, okay? Stop hurting yourself like this!” I looked at him blankly, not understanding why he took away my food. Under the piercing eyes of Declan Carter and my parents, I suddenly sank my teeth into the fish I was holding. Blood swirled in the clear water. “Nora! Stop.” Declan Carter shouted and, ignoring the frigid seawater, plunged his hand into the tank, yanking me out and tossing the struggling fish aside. He hugged me tightly, his voice shaking with emotion, “Nora, let’s not do this anymore, okay? Don’t hurt yourself like this!” I stared at him blankly, not understanding why he took my food away. At the research institute, they conducted all kinds of horrifying experiments on me to secure more funding, even trying to train me to lure certain targets with my “singing” for the entertainment of sponsors with peculiar tastes. I knew I had to meet their demands to survive. Maybe… he needed me to please him? So, I lifted my arms, slick and scaly, and wrapped them around Finn’s neck. I tilted my head slightly, emitting a low, melodious sound from my throat, like a dolphin’s song, as a signal to please. I nuzzled my cheek against his neck like a creature seeking solace. Declan Carter stiffened suddenly, gripping my shoulders and pushing me away, his eyes locked onto mine, his voice trembling with intensity: “Nora Carter! What did you learn on that island for six months?! Don’t you remember you’re the eldest daughter of the Carter family?” His face was filled with pain and disbelief: “How could you do something so shameless?!” He gripped my shoulders painfully, and I didn’t understand why he was angry. He had sent me to that island, where my body was altered to resemble a fish and my mind was twisted and trained. To survive, every part of me was forced to “please” others against my will. But now, he was blaming me for having no shame. As I looked at him in confusion, Declan Carter seemed unable to meet my gaze. He closed his eyes tightly, took a deep breath, and his voice trembled uncontrollably: “Investigate! Now! Find out what happened to Miss Carter during those six months on the island!!” The wait for the investigation results felt interminable. Declan Carter had someone wrap me in a clean blanket, holding me in his arms, trying to warm my cold body with his own. But he didn’t know, my circulatory system had been altered; no matter what he did, I couldn’t regain a normal body temperature. Half an hour later, two bodyguards dragged the woman responsible for my care in front of Declan Carter. “I entrusted Miss Carter’s daily life to you; now, don’t you think you owe me an explanation? How did she turn out like this in just six months?” Declan Carter’s voice was icy, carrying a weight of looming anger. The old woman trembled, kneeling on the ground, repeatedly pleading for mercy. “Mr. Carter, please have mercy! Have mercy!” “Speak! What happened exactly?” “It’s… it’s Miss Carter… she couldn’t handle the isolation on the island, her mind snapped… she kept running to the sea, saying she wanted to become a fish… then her behavior became more and more bizarre…” The old woman’s eyes flickered, clearly lying. Declan Carter’s gaze sharpened, and the bodyguards stepped forward. Terrified, the woman screamed, “I’ll tell! I’ll tell! It was Cora Bennett! She bribed me! She gave me a lot of money to hand… to hand Miss Carter over to those madmen at the island’s research institute!” It seems there is no text available for translation at the moment. Could you please provide the specific content you would like translated? “Research institute? What research institute?” Declan Carter’s voice was tense, each word forced out through gritted teeth. “The old abandoned marine biology research institute! There are still people secretly conducting experiments there… They’ve been trying to combine human and marine creature genes… Cora Bennett told them that Nora Carter was alone, and even if something happened to her on Mermaid Island, no one would come looking. She allowed those researchers to use Nora as a test subject—if they succeeded, she’d take the credit, and if they failed… they’d just get rid of her…” The elderly woman revealed everything, including how Cora Bennett contacted her, transferred money to her, and instructed her to cooperate with the researchers. She even presented threatening messages from Cora as evidence.

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