Author: Momo Chan

On the day I was seven months pregnant, James Sullivan proposed to his first love. That woman took off the ring James had personally put on her finger and threw it into the sea. “James, I heard Miss Carter used to be a state swimming champion. Why don’t you let her jump in and fetch the ring for me?” she said, her finger tracing James’s chest muscles as she whispered in his ear, “I’ll do anything you want tonight.” James’s heated gaze roamed over her legs before turning to me with a smirk. I saw his intention and frantically clutched my belly, pleading, “James, I’m seven months pregnant, and it’s winter…” But James just swallowed hard and sneered, “You don’t really think I want that bastard child, do you? It’s not like you haven’t miscarried before. Stop being so dramatic. Jump in and get the ring back, or you’ll never come up again!” He had someone forcibly lift me and throw me into the sea. I bobbed up and down in the icy water, searching for hours. Until I felt something slip out of my belly, until the azure sea was stained with a patch of blood… I looked up at the scene on the yacht where James and his first love were holding their wedding ceremony amidst the crowd’s cheers, and my heart finally broke. Seven years of marriage, nine miscarriages, this was the last time. When I woke up again, I found myself in the hospital. I felt my now flat and empty belly, staring blankly at the stark white ceiling of the ward. My mind was still replaying the scene of being engulfed by the cold seawater. Then I heard James’s impatient voice: “Awake? Then stop playing dumb. It’s just a miscarriage, what’s there to be so delicate about?” I turned my trembling gaze towards the sound, only to see James still holding Sophia Reed’s waist, their bodies pressed tightly together. On Sophia’s finger gleamed the jade ring that symbolized the Sullivan family’s daughter-in-law status. This was also the ring I had risked my life to retrieve from the sea for her, time and time again. I pulled my lips into a bitter smile. This was my ninth miscarriage. During my previous pregnancy, the doctor had told me that due to the earlier miscarriages, my uterus had been severely damaged. So this time, I was extra careful, doing prenatal exercises every day without fail, drinking bitter Chinese medicine to nourish my body. Even though the hospital had deemed it a high-risk pregnancy, I was still desperately trying to give birth to this last child with James. But now, because of one casual remark from Sophia, this child was gone. I still remember when I was pulled out of the sea for the last time by their cable, I was clutching that jade ring tightly, my belly hurting as if a thousand knives were twisting inside, the surrounding seawater gradually spreading with a salty, bloody color. “James, I found it, look…” “Please, save me, save our child…” There was a doctor on board the yacht. If only they had called for help, perhaps my child would still have had a glimmer of hope. But what I faced was James’s impatient face. He clicked his tongue, snatched the jade ring from my hand, and put it back on Sophia’s finger. “Can’t you see I’m busy? Today is my wedding with Sophia, who has time to care about you?” James and I were legally married. His marriage certificate and the Sullivan family records all bore my name. But everyone knew that I, this ‘Mrs. Sullivan’, was just a pathetic joke. So, after Sophia returned from abroad, James bought her millions of roses in front of everyone, creating a romantic sea of flowers on a yacht, proposing to her and holding a fake but grand wedding to make her happy. Before this, he had me brought onto the yacht to witness their happiest moment firsthand. Staring at the ring on Sophia’s hand, my eyes stung, and I barely managed to hold back my tears. The cries of those unborn children seemed to still echo in my ears. Accusingly and resentfully blaming me, their useless mother. I clenched my jaw tightly until the taste of blood spread in my mouth. At this moment, Sophia twirled the ring and said softly, “James, I heard this ring is only for the Sullivan family’s daughter-in-law to wear.” “After all, Miss Carter is your lawfully wedded wife. Isn’t it inappropriate for you to give it to me just like that?” James interlaced his fingers with hers, holding her hand and placing a light kiss on the ring: “This ring was always meant for you. As for her…” His sidelong glance fell on me: “Do you think she has the fortune and qualifications?” After seven years of marriage, I had never gained the approval of the Sullivan family or James. Let alone dreaming about this ring. I closed my eyes, then heard Sophia giggle: “You’re right. She didn’t qualify before, let alone now. After all, the Sullivan family doesn’t need a barren woman.” She affectionately wrapped her arms around James’s neck, then blinked her big watery eyes and pouted. “James, don’t worry. I’ll make up for all the children she lost. I’ll give you as many as you want…” James’s satisfied laughter immediately echoed through the ward, falling on my ears like countless needles pricking painfully. I finally couldn’t bear it anymore and said to them: “Have you said enough?” “I just had a miscarriage. I need to rest now. Can you please leave?” The next moment, James frowned in displeasure, snorting with full sarcasm. “What are you pretending for? You weren’t this dramatic with your previous miscarriages. Don’t tell me you’re trying to use this to attract attention?” My first miscarriage was because James dragged me to a business dinner to help him entertain clients. At that time, I was nearly six months pregnant and was forced to drink glass after glass of water disguised as alcohol. Despite this, when I miscarried in the hospital the next day, I heard that Sullivan Group’s project had hit a snag. I still stood outside the partner company’s building in 110-degree heat, fainting from heatstroke, to help him secure the contract. The second miscarriage happened when he came home drunk. I rushed to get him a hot towel and hangover soup, but James, in a moment of impatience, grabbed my wrist and forcefully threw me down the stairs. My belly hit the corner, and the scalding soup spilled all over me. At that time, I was nine months pregnant, just about two weeks from my due date. After resting in the hospital for a few days, I saw news of James having a car accident while on a business trip out of town. Seeing photos of him with his arm wrapped in layers of bandages, I immediately checked myself out of the hospital and rushed to the accident site to be by his side. But now, everything I had desperately done for him in the past had become his reason for telling me not to be so dramatic. Seeing me sitting silently on the hospital bed with reddened eyes, James finally lost patience. He stepped forward and roughly grabbed my wrist, violently pulling me onto the floor. “Still pretending? Sophia will be living with us from now on. Go home and clean up the room, give your room to her!” “She’s not used to the food made by the housekeeper. From now on, before she wakes up or comes home, you prepare the meals in advance…” I finally looked up, staring blankly at James’s face contorted with disgust. I didn’t cry or make a scene. Instead, I looked at him and pulled my cracked, bleeding lips into a smile. “James Sullivan, are you satisfied with how I look now?” Seven years ago, I was on the state swimming team with James’s sister, Emma Sullivan. We became best friends, and Emma even introduced me to her brother, James. During that time, the three of us went on adventure trips together. Even the day before Emma’s accident, James had blushed and placed a light kiss on my forehead. Everything was going well, but an accident pushed the fate of us three into an abyss. That night, Emma and I were coming back from swim practice when we encountered a group of thugs at the dark alley entrance. In the critical moment, Emma threw herself at the group, screaming for me to run. I was scared stiff at the time and instinctively lifted my feet, running out of the alley without looking back to find help. But when I returned with people, I only saw Emma lying in a pool of blood, her clothes in disarray… I still remember, in the funeral home where we said our final goodbyes, James, with bloodshot eyes, dragged me to the courthouse to get married. Ignoring my cries and pleas, he took me forcefully in the place where Emma was killed, which was like a nightmare to me. “Lily Carter, this is just the beginning…” “I’m trapping your soul here, in the Sullivan family, to atone for my sister for the rest of your life!” From that moment on, I seemed to be stuck in a nightmare I could never wake up from. Trapping myself in that long, dark alley, constantly getting pregnant and miscarrying, torturing myself to the point of madness in this way. But now, I’m tired. Even if it means death, I don’t want to continue anymore. Dr. Hannah Moore from the obstetrics department was my good friend. Seeing me admitted to the hospital again after another miscarriage, looking as pale and frail as a sheet of paper, she sighed. “Lily, this is your ninth miscarriage.” “You should know how much damage pregnancy and miscarriage do to a woman’s body. You won’t be able to have children anymore.” I forced a smile through heavy eyelids. “That’s fine. I don’t… want to have children anymore anyway.” Hannah seemed to want to say something but held back, finally offering some words of comfort: “How long are you going to torture yourself? What happened wasn’t your fault at all. If Emma were alive, she wouldn’t want to see you destroy yourself like this!” At the mention of Emma, I clenched my fists tightly, then took a deep breath. “You’re right. So I’ve decided to be selfish for once and let myself go.” On the way back to the Sullivan house from the hospital, I received a call from James, ordering me to get to the family mansion right away. The time on my phone showed it was the anniversary of Emma’s death. I knew the Sullivan family’s annual program targeting me was about to begin. Since Emma’s accident, not only did James hate me, but the Sullivan family naturally wouldn’t let me off either. The first year, Mrs. Sullivan whipped me until I was covered in cuts and bruises in front of her daughter’s memorial tablet. The second year, they forced me to crawl on my knees from the alley where Emma died all the way to her gravestone. … Now, I had been wallowing in this pain for seven years. As soon as I stepped over the threshold of the Sullivan house, Mrs. Sullivan ordered the housekeeper to hold me down and forcibly strip off my clothes. I tried to struggle against the weakness and pain from the recent miscarriage, but before I could, a bucket of black dog blood was poured over me from head to toe. Mrs. Sullivan held a whip, sneering at me: “Lily Carter, married for seven years, nine miscarriages, and you still say you’re not a jinx? How unlucky can our Sullivan family be to have someone like you? You caused the death of my precious daughter, the death of your parents, and now you can’t even keep your own children alive!” Seeing her mention my parents, a flash of pain finally crossed my numb, deadened eyes. My parents died in a car accident on the way to take me to the hospital during my fifth miscarriage. That day was Mrs. Sullivan’s birthday banquet. My parents, who didn’t know how to drive, knelt on the ground in front of all the guests, begging James to send someone to take me to the hospital. But the response they got was James coldly kicking them away, denying any relationship with me. Now, no matter how much abuse and humiliation fell on my ears, it all turned into a cold numbness. I laughed softly, raising my head to stare at Emma’s black and white photograph. She was still young and vibrant, but I seemed to see a trace of sorrow and heartache in her smile. If Emma were still alive, she wouldn’t want to see me become like this, would she? So… I turned to James in a daze, finally speaking hoarsely: “If that’s the case, James Sullivan, let’s get a divorce.” Hearing this, Mrs. Sullivan fell into an awkward silence. Sophia’s eyes flashed with excitement as she turned joyfully towards James. But James stared at me intently, and after a moment, he suddenly snorted mockingly and kicked me hard. My body slammed heavily into the table behind me, and my already pale face twisted in pain. Just as I tried to get up from the ground, James suddenly grabbed my neck. His eyes were bloodshot, like an enraged beast, gritting his teeth with hatred and murderous intent: “Lily Carter, how dare you?” He pointed at Emma’s memorial tablet with his other hand, shouting hoarsely: “Look at Emma’s photo! Think about the crime you committed. What right do you have to ask me for a divorce?” Then he leaned close to my ear, laughing coldly in a breathy voice: “I told you before, from the moment you caused Emma’s death, your life no longer belongs to you. Did you think I married you because I loved you?” Meeting my trembling, panicked gaze, he grinned viciously, his fingers touching my face: “It was to torture you better, to make you atone to Emma!” Perhaps the mention of divorce truly angered James. That day, his punishment for me was more severe than ever before. He had people bring in nine glass jars containing the blood and flesh of our unborn children. Some of the children had already taken shape, while others were just small lumps of flesh with indistinguishable limbs. But even though they were dead, their biological father was unwilling to let them go, keeping them pickled in jars of blood. Looking at those children, my body began to shake violently, and I clutched James’s pant leg tightly. “James, no, they’re your children too…” “Please, let them rest in peace. For the sake that they’re your flesh and blood…” But James just laughed coldly, squeezing my neck hard and speaking ominously: “Rest in peace?” “When my sister died, her eyes weren’t even closed. What right do you have to talk about resting in peace?” Then he turned his head and barked an order: “Go, bring me the ashes of those two old folks as well!” Realizing what he was about to do, I covered my ears and screamed: “No, please, don’t…” But James still dug out my parents’ ashes and shattered them in front of me. He forcibly pressed my head down, slamming it again and again into my parents’ ashes, making me kowtow to Emma’s memorial tablet. “Remember this, seven years of marriage, two lives, nine children…” “Now there’s only you left. When you die, we can finally settle our debt!” Due to the massive shock and bone-deep pain, I coughed up blood and fainted on the spot. When I woke up again, I found myself back in the hospital. As soon as I opened my eyes, I heard James roaring furiously outside: “What are you all good for?”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296066”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #励志Inspiring #惊悚Thriller

Lucas was in a car accident. When I rushed to the hospital, his parents were fussing over him. The moment he saw me, Lucas frowned, “Who are you?” The room fell silent. After examining him for a while, the doctor regretfully told me, “Mrs. Gu, it seems Mr. Gu may be experiencing selective amnesia.” Selective amnesia? So after the accident, he remembered everyone except me. I curled my fingers, a bitter smile playing on my lips. Lucas glanced at me, his eyes filled with inexplicable disgust. His parents weren’t upset about his memory loss. Instead, they seemed particularly pleased. His mother put her hands on her hips, “Oh, son, it’s better that you don’t remember her. It’ll save you from all that trouble!” His father nodded, then gestured for me to step outside for a chat. Mr. Gu spoke bluntly, “Emily, Lucas forgetting you is actually a good thing.” “You should leave soon. It’ll be better for both of you.” “Your father still needs money, right? If you agree to leave, we can transfer the funds today.” Looking at the man before me, I was momentarily stunned. I bit my lip, about to speak when I heard his mother’s excited voice, “Who is she?” “Just a gold-digger who wormed her way into our family. It’s better you don’t remember her!” Lucas and I had been married for five years, spending the last three in an emotional stalemate. I always knew they didn’t like me, but I never expected them to force me out like this. And I certainly didn’t expect them to insult me. I gripped my purse strap tightly and smiled, “Alright.” “But besides the money for my dad, I want an additional $200,000.” I was dying anyway. I didn’t want to fight with Lucas anymore. At this point, I just wanted to suffer a little less in my final moments. $200,000 wasn’t much for the Gu family now. Mr. Gu agreed readily. He even allowed me to say goodbye to Lucas. Lucas had probably heard about all the “terrible things” I’d done over the years from his mother. He now knew that Sophia should have been the Gu family’s daughter-in-law. So he looked at me with particular coldness. I forced a smile, “Lucas, I…” I wanted to tell him he was free now, that he didn’t have to be with me anymore. I even wanted to tell him I was dying. After all, at this moment, he was still legally my husband. But he cut me off with a low hiss, “Get out!” I blinked back tears and turned to leave. I felt somewhat relieved, grateful that I had only been using him as a substitute all along. Otherwise, I’d probably be heartbroken right now. Although Lucas and I had been together all these years, we were like a couple bound by contract, emotionally miles apart. We kept our things in separate rooms. So it didn’t take long for me to pack up when I got home. I looked back at the house I’d lived in for five years, letting out a sigh. I couldn’t help but feel a bit sentimental. “Emily?” A familiar male voice called out. I turned to see Ethan. He looked more mature than before, but still maintained that gentle, refined air about him. As always, he greeted me with a warm smile. I carefully held my breath, stiffly calling out, “Ethan.” He was Lucas’s older brother. And the man I had admired for a long time. Just having him stand in front of me made my heart beat faster than usual. Ethan asked in surprise, “Emily, are you going on a trip? Why do you have so much luggage?” I froze in place, my body stiffening, “No, I’m just… moving to a new place.” “Is it because of Lucas?” He took the suitcase from my hand. He asked gently, “I know he’s going through a bit of a rough patch right now, which might upset you.” “But if you’re not in a hurry, I’d like to talk with you for a bit.” I didn’t know what he wanted to say, but looking into his eyes, I found myself following him without thinking. It wasn’t until he was pouring me tea that I noticed something different about him. He was wearing a wedding ring. “I got married!” Ethan explained with a smile when he saw my gaze fall on his hand. My heart sank, and I felt a bit dazed. I only snapped back to reality when I heard Lucas’s name. “Lucas has always been a bit full of himself. He gets cocky with compliments but sulks at the slightest criticism,” Ethan could go on for hours about Lucas’s embarrassing childhood stories. “In 2008, when Lucas was twelve, he was still a chubby kid. He had a crush on some little girl and would go out every weekend with a bag full of stuff. He even asked me to make him grasshopper figurines every week.” “That summer, I broke my leg and couldn’t even rest properly at home.” I suddenly looked up, confused, “In 2008, you broke your leg during summer break and couldn’t go out?” Ethan nodded, not understanding my reaction. I felt the world spinning, my head starting to ache. I made an excuse and left early. Sitting on the couch at home, I stared at the photo of Lucas and Ethan on the opposite wall. I realized their eyes were very similar, both taking after their mother. But Ethan’s eyes were a bit rounder than Lucas’s. More like the boy I met when I was young. All these years, I had thought it was Ethan who brought me food and grasshopper figurines back then. Today, I finally learned that it had been Lucas all along. He was my savior. I curled up in bed, clutching an old grasshopper figurine. In my dream, I was back to when I was twelve, by the Reed River. Back then, my dad was generally okay with me, but he was an alcoholic. When drunk, he’d take out his frustrations on me. It happened every weekend. After being beaten, I’d run to the riverside and hide in a corner. That’s when Lucas found me. His eyes were rounder back then, and he was a bit chubby, but very agile. Seeing me crouched by the river, he slid over on his knees and picked me up without warning. I was small and skinny back then. He carried me effortlessly. I screamed and pounded on him, afraid he might be a bad person. He set me down on the roadside and asked cheekily, “Little girl, don’t you know it’s dangerous to be alone by the river? You’re so small, no one would notice if you fell in!” I rolled my eyes. Realizing this chubby boy was just trying to be nice, I retorted, “Psh! I wouldn’t fall in.” He playfully pinched my cheek. I swatted his hand away, but because my palm was swollen from my dad’s beating earlier, tears immediately welled up in my eyes. Lucas wasn’t very bright back then. He grabbed my hand and exclaimed, “Wow, you hit me and made yourself cry?!” Seeing my tears fall, he quickly tried to comfort me with candy. It wasn’t until I kicked him that he realized he had accidentally pressed on my injured hand, causing me to cry from pain. Lucas, at a loss, rummaged through his pockets and pulled out a grasshopper figurine. I had never had many toys growing up and had always envied others. When he brought out this little thing, it might not have meant much to other kids. But it was enough to make me stop crying immediately and even call him “big brother” sweetly. The young Lucas was pleased, losing himself in my praise. He proudly declared that he had made it himself and promised to make an even better one for me next time. Sure enough, the following week, he brought a new one. That summer was the happiest I’d had in years. Every week, Lucas would meet me by the river, tell me jokes, bring me snacks, and give me grasshopper figurines. He told me to call him brother, but I refused. I said I was twelve, not that little anymore. He scratched his head and puffed out his chest, saying he was thirteen, just a bit older than me. He told me that not all parents love their children, but we should love ourselves. His serious expression while lecturing me then made me laugh uncontrollably. But only I knew that I had etched his image from that time into my heart. It wasn’t until later when I met Ethan, who was a year older than me, and saw him skillfully making grasshopper figurines, that I realized I had been too young back then to understand what it meant to have a crush. And because I was so young, I forgot to ask for his name. I only remembered that the little “big brother” was a year older than me. So I missed out on all these years. But now, it’s too late. After moving to my new place, the first person to show up was, surprisingly, my dad. “Quick! Did your husband give you money? Give some to daddy, I need it urgently!” His eyes were clouded, filled with greed. He looked at me without any familial affection, as if I were just a tool. I pressed my lips together, blocking him at the door, “I warned you! That was the last time I’d help you solve your problems!” He had been an alcoholic for years, becoming violent when drunk. In the past, when he wasn’t drunk, he still had some feelings for me, but over the years, he’d gotten worse. After I married Lucas, he picked up other bad habits and even found a girlfriend seventeen years younger than him. He got scammed, buying luxury goods for his young girlfriend, getting into drunken fights. Each time, I was the one cleaning up his mess. This time, he even got into gambling. The Gu family had agreed to pay people to solve his problems on the condition that I divorce Lucas. Now, he was back again. But he was oblivious, grabbing my collar, “I need money! I owe some people money. Your husband is so rich, help me out!” I felt utterly powerless. I couldn’t help him forever; my life was coming to an end. And now, Lucas had nothing to do with me anymore. I pushed his hand away, shoving him aside, “I won’t help you! And Lucas won’t either. We’re divorced.” His face crumpled, stammering that it was impossible. “That boy loves you so much! How could he divorce you!” His mind was jumbled, speaking incoherently. But slowly, I began to understand. It turned out my own father had gotten into trouble long ago, and when people were after him with knives, it was Lucas who helped him. It was also Lucas who had been supporting him all these years. The problems I had solved for him were just the tip of the iceberg. At that moment, I felt the world spinning. He kept shouting, “That fool treats you like his heart and soul, how could he possibly forget you!” My dad’s face was contorted, barely human anymore. I slapped him hard, seething, “Let me tell you, I’ve more than repaid any debt for raising me. Don’t come looking for me again!” “Soon, you won’t be able to find me anyway!” “I’m dying! I won’t have to bear your burden anymore!” I gritted my teeth, tears streaming down my face. He was stunned for a moment, then suddenly elated, “You’re dying! So your money is useless to you now! Give it to me!” I watched as he excitedly swore to give me a proper burial if I just gave him all my money. With a bitter laugh, I squeezed out one sentence: “Keep dreaming!” The doctor told me to be kind to myself in my final days. I decided to leave this place and move to a seaside town. Before leaving, I bought the best medicine I could afford, trying to minimize my suffering. In the coastal city, I watched the sunrise and sunset every day, cooked my meals, and occasionally pet the neighbor’s dog. It was peaceful, if a bit boring. Sometimes I thought about Lucas, but I never expected to see him so soon. And with Sophia. Sophia and Lucas were childhood friends, from families of similar status. She was tall, over 5’7″, with a slender figure and an intelligent beauty that charmed everyone who met her. If her family hadn’t sent her abroad for early studies, and if she hadn’t been so focused on her career that she didn’t come back, Maybe Lucas would have ended up with her instead of me. My dad said Lucas loved me, but I didn’t quite believe it. Because I knew there was always someone in his heart. And his parents and his collection of mementos all told me that person was Sophia. The year Lucas and I got married, Sophia couldn’t come back from abroad due to some issues. So she never met me. I had only seen her in photos. Naturally, Sophia couldn’t recognize me, but Lucas could. He frowned as soon as he saw me, as if looking at something distasteful. I smirked inwardly and turned to leave. But I heard Sophia’s sweet voice asking Lucas, “Lucas, do you know her?” I paused. Lucas coldly said he didn’t know me. But Sophia didn’t believe him: “Come on, we’ve been friends since childhood, I know you too well! That look on your face isn’t normal!” She jogged over and tapped my shoulder, “Hey there!” I turned around to see her bright eyes, filled with a smile. Lucas reluctantly followed, standing silently to the side. I forced a smile, “Hello there!” Sophia pointed at Lucas, curious, “Girl, you look so familiar! Do you two know each other?” “Yes!” Lucas suddenly spoke up. “No.” Our voices overlapped, making the situation incredibly awkward. I rubbed my nose nervously. Sophia burst out laughing, “What’s going on with you two!” She was much more lively than her appearance suggested. Upon learning we were college classmates, she insisted on treating me to a meal to uncover some secrets about Lucas. I was dragged along to join them at a table. Sophia was very talkative, especially knowledgeable about Lucas’s embarrassing moments. “I know all about his childhood antics. If I hadn’t been away when he got married, I definitely would have told his bride how stupid he used to be!” Sophia declared confidently. Lucas scowled, muttering, “You won’t have the chance anymore.” “Right, right! I know you’re divorced now, so I’ve missed my chance.” Sophia ate all the food Lucas had put on her plate, her eyes darting between Lucas and me. She propped her chin on her hand, “There’s such a weird vibe between you two!” I had been eating with my head down, but looked up awkwardly when she pointed this out, forcing a smile, “There’s nothing weird. We’re just regular classmates.” Sophia didn’t seem convinced, but Lucas insisted we were just ordinary classmates, claiming his earlier reaction was due to his post-injury confusion. I nodded along. Seeing she couldn’t get more information, Sophia pouted and went to the restroom. I poked at my food with my chopsticks. “Regular classmates?” Lucas snorted, glaring at me. I didn’t know what had gotten into him, leaving me confused. “Aren’t we?” I asked. “I’m a woman too, I can tell Miss Yu has feelings for you. I hope things work out for you two.” Lucas’s face suddenly turned ashen. He crossed his arms and turned away, ignoring me. We didn’t say anything else after that. Learning that I lived here, Sophia was so excited she nearly jumped. She grabbed my hand to add me on SnapChat, eager for me to show her around the local attractions. I couldn’t refuse her, and Lucas didn’t say anything. Sophia was a truly exceptional person. She had excellent grades in college and even held a personal exhibition before graduating. Her SnapChat showed her past works. That’s when I realized she was quite a well-known up-and-coming artist in the art world. I couldn’t help but feel a bit overwhelmed. No wonder Lucas’s parents didn’t like me. From every angle, I fell far short. With mixed emotions, I took them tide pooling. Lucas carried the bucket and tongs, watching Sophia’s antics with a smile on his face, looking completely at ease. It was so different from how he was with me. I felt a twinge of unhappiness. Sophia caught a small crab and ran to Lucas, showing off, “Look how amazing I am!” Lucas said, “It’s just a tiny crab, nothing to be proud of!” But he still pulled out a sun hat and put it on her head. Sophia adjusted the hat and ran off. He muttered under his breath, “How can she be so careless at her age? Not even bringing a hat, she’ll get sunburned.” He fell silent after speaking. We both paused. I suddenly remembered the early days of our marriage when we were still close. We went to the beach, and I got sunburned on the first day. My exposed skin was red and painful. As he applied ointment, he insisted I couldn’t go out the next day. But it was my first time seeing the ocean in my life. The next day, I couldn’t resist and snuck out. He chased after me, exasperated, and plopped a huge sun hat on my head, “How can you be so careless at your age? Aren’t you afraid of getting roasted?” For those seven days, he followed me around with a sun hat every day. I had wondered how a man could be so attentive, but now I realized it was because of Sophia. Later, I took them to a local seafood restaurant. Sophia ordered some seafood, and Lucas suddenly asked to add spicy razor clams. Sophia’s delicate brows furrowed, “Why add spicy food? Aren’t we here by the sea to eat steamed seafood?” “Neither of us eats spicy food.” As soon as she finished speaking, my chopsticks fell to the ground. My heart was in my throat. Lucas doesn’t eat spicy food, and he doesn’t eat razor clams. But I do. Whenever I ate seafood with him, I always ordered spicy razor clams. Lucas seemed to come to his senses, realizing his mistake. He ran his hand through his hair and canceled the order. When he turned to look at me, he suddenly asked, “Emily, what do you want to eat?” My whole body stiffened, afraid Sophia would catch on. But she just smiled at me warmly. Then I remembered that when Lucas and I got married, he had sent Sophia an invitation in English. It only had our English names, without any photos. I was listed as Emily Shen. I couldn’t help but feel relieved, then annoyed at myself. After all, I had been Lucas’s wife for five years. It wasn’t surprising that he remembered one of my small preferences. “Just steamed is fine, I can’t eat spicy food,” I said. Lucas looked at me thoughtfully after hearing this, his expression unreadable. Over the next few days, I showed Lucas and Sophia around the coastal city. I discovered that Sophia truly was a wonderful girl, deserving of everyone’s love. So before they left, I sincerely told Sophia, “I hope you find your happiness soon!” Sophia’s face turned red. She glanced at Lucas and whispered to me, “It’ll happen soon!” At that time, I didn’t understand what she meant by “soon.” My condition worsened, and the medication made me drowsy and lethargic. I couldn’t muster energy for anything. I frequently felt nauseous and vomited, sometimes even coughing up blood. I knew I didn’t have much time left. So when I saw Sophia’s post about an engagement ring, I was only stunned for a moment. Sophia was engaged. Both Lucas and Ethan had liked the post. Not wanting them to see me, I privately congratulated Sophia. I opened my chat with Lucas, where the last message was from long ago. The bitterness in my heart was hard to bear. I buried my head in my arms, taking a long time to suppress my emotions. “Congratulations!” I sent the message quickly. But Lucas didn’t reply. Perhaps he was busy preparing for the wedding. Or maybe he was with Sophia. I didn’t know, but suddenly Sophia didn’t seem so great anymore. I felt a bit jealous of her. I took my medicine and dozed off until late at night. Suddenly, I heard a noise outside my door. Again and again, very regular, very polite. My heart started racing. I knew this knocking pattern all too well, having heard it for several years. But when I actually saw Lucas, I realized how much I had been hoping it was him. I had been longing for him to come find me. “Emily…” Lucas reeked of alcohol. He pulled me into his arms, calling my name over and over. His tears soaked through my clothes. My eyes quickly filled with tears too, and I gently wrapped my arms around his waist. Since realizing my true feelings, I had imagined countless times when he might regain his memory. If he did, would he love me? But now that the moment had come, I was nervous and afraid. Lucas pushed me into the room, whispering in my ear, “I still haven’t regained my memory. Why did you run away?” My heart tightened. Had he really recovered his memory? As I hesitated on how to respond, he suddenly collapsed on the floor, passed out. I looked at him, torn between laughter and tears. How could I forget that this guy passes out after one drink? For him to smell so strongly of alcohol, he must have been completely out of it. I didn’t have the strength to move him now. I could only bring a blanket and pillow, trying my best to wrap him up. Sitting beside him, I watched as the moonlight cast shifting shadows on his face. Lucas was a person favored by fate. He had excellent looks and a great physique. Even now, he still retained a hint of his youthful charm. Unlike me. I looked at myself in the mirror, hair a mess, gaunt and withered, surrounded by an aura of death. When Lucas woke up the next day, his whole body ached. He glared at me, demanding to know how he ended up here. I shrugged, “How should I know!” His head was pounding. It took him a while to remember that he had been drinking with friends last night. He clearly remembered calling a cab to go home. How did he end up here? The coastal city wasn’t far from their hometown, about 300 kilometers, a four-hour drive. I glanced at him sideways, watching as he discovered his ride history and gradually became frustrated. He cursed, sure that one of his “dog brothers” had played a prank on him. But I knew his friends well, each one a golden boy. They looked down on me. They were all happy when they learned about our divorce. He could get engaged to Sophia, so last night must have been his joyous bachelor party. Who would send him to me as a prank? And besides him and Sophia, who else knew my current address? I held my cup, lost in thought. Lucas got up and stared at my hands, suddenly saying, “You actually drink hot water now?” Before I could react, he froze. He clutched his head, looking pained. I was startled by his expression and quickly asked what was wrong. “Emily…” He started calling my name again. Over and over. It made me incredibly uncomfortable. I wanted to tell him to stop, that I would cry if he continued. Lucas slowly raised his head, his eyes bloodshot, “Emily!” “We’re divorced?” I couldn’t help but take two steps back, bumping into the table. I forced a smile, “You remember now?” Lucas had remembered. He sat down with a grim expression, “You divorced me just for money?” Money? No, if it was for money, I should have clung to Lucas tightly, as that would have maximized my benefits. Lucas seemed to realize this logic too, his expression softening, “Is it because I forgot you that you divorced me?” He snorted, “After all, we had been in a cold war for so long before, and you never mentioned divorce!” Mentioning the cold war immediately chilled the atmosphere between us that had just started to warm. Come to think of it, it had been a long time since we had a calm conversation before the divorce. And the reason for our cold war was that I discovered things he had hidden. A diary, recording years of unspoken affection. When I placed it in front of him, he flew into a rage. He snatched the diary away, tearing it to shreds, his boyhood sentiments in tatters. He demanded to know why I had touched his things. I still remember how he pinned me down that day, his face full of anger: “Emily, how dare you!” I couldn’t escape, I could only struggle desperately, my nails scratching his face. When we saw the blood, we both froze. I felt some regret, thinking I shouldn’t have scratched so hard. But I was also angry – he had been keeping a record of his love for another girl, how could he blame me? After that, we didn’t speak for three years. I tried to make amends, but he wouldn’t acknowledge me. Now, bringing up the cold war again, My feelings for him immediately cooled. In those years when I was his wife, he could give me the cold shoulder because of his crush on Sophia. What about now? But he asked me, “Emily.” “Do you still like Ethan?” I was stunned by the content of his words, unable to move for a long time before turning my head. He gave a bitter smile, showing a rare moment of embarrassment, “Did you divorce me because of my brother?” “Because he got married, and you can no longer secretly watch him through me, so you want to divorce me.” This was absolutely ridiculous. “I didn’t divorce you because of your brother,” I said, enunciating each word. Lucas’s face immediately brightened. His eyes lit up with joy, “Not because of him? Then why?” Because I’m dying. So I wanted to set you free. The words were on the tip of my tongue, but I couldn’t say them out loud. A sharp pain shot through my abdomen, and cold sweat broke out on my forehead. “Lucas, don’t you know why?” “I divorced you so you could be with Sophia. Now that you’re engaged, you should leave.” Leave quickly. The pain was becoming unbearable, and my vision was starting to blur. But I didn’t want him to see me in such a miserable state, nor did I want his pity. Lucas looked bewildered, “What does this have to do with Sophia? What engagement?” A thunderous realization struck me, but the pain prevented me from thinking clearly. All my strength seemed to drain away with my cold sweat, and I felt myself falling backwards. I heard Lucas shouting nearby, “Emily!” Then everything went black, and I lost consciousness. When I opened my eyes again, everything around me was white, and the smell of disinfectant filled my nostrils. I was in the hospital. Lucas was still wearing the same clothes, with dark circles under his eyes, looking disheveled. Seeing me awake, his eyes immediately brightened, “Emily’s awake! Nurse, doctor!” After the examinations were done, he sat down beside me and held my hand, “Emily! How could you be so cruel?” “I don’t blame you anymore.” “It doesn’t matter if you like Ethan. I won’t hold it against you even if you married me to get close to him.” “Just please, don’t die, okay?” The doctor had told him about my condition. His voice was choked with tears. My eyes stung. If I had known I would have an attack, I should have sent him away earlier. I was saddened by his distress. And even more angry at myself. So he had known all along that I married him to get close to his brother. From the moment I met Ethan, I knew he had a girlfriend. I suppressed all my feelings, quietly watching Ethan from afar. When I confirmed he wouldn’t break up with his girlfriend, I was heartbroken and devastated, drowning my sorrows at nightclubs. It was Lucas who picked me up, lecturing me that a girl shouldn’t get drunk alone outside. After Ethan went abroad, I couldn’t keep up. Among the people I knew, only Lucas could bring me news about Ethan. So I approached him, followed him. Until both of Lucas’s parents fell ill, and Ethan was too busy with his studies abroad to come back. Lucas took over the domestic work and was swamped. That’s when we really got entangled. After waking up in the same bed with him, I told him to marry me, otherwise the scandal about the Gu family’s younger son couldn’t be contained. Lucas agreed with a sour face. Even though his parents disapproved, his friends were against it. Everyone said I was a gold digger, with a troublemaking father who would eventually drag Lucas down. He still married me. At the time, I consoled myself that I had no chance with Ethan in this lifetime anyway, so I could just watch him from afar. I collected news about Ethan, saved his photos. Only looking at them when I was in pain, giving myself some strength. I mistook my past fantasies about Ethan for love. But I didn’t know that Lucas had long discovered my special attention towards his brother. He also knew that Ethan had once occupied my heart. I opened my mouth to explain. But I didn’t know what to say. Tell him I had mistaken my savior, that I had thought his brother was him? This explanation seemed weak and unconvincing. Lucas suggested taking me back to our hometown. I didn’t agree, “I really like the sea. I want to stay by the coast.” His eyes darkened, his expression unreadable. He called his family, had his clothes mailed over, and insisted on living with me. “Whether you like me or not, you’re still my ex-wife. It’s my duty to take care of you,” he explained gruffly as he folded my clothes and put them in the closet. Sophia was indeed engaged, but not to him. I suddenly looked up, my eyes wide, “What?” He shoved the clothes into the wardrobe irritably, “I said, Sophia’s true love is her classmate from abroad!” “What kind of brain do you have, thinking someone who doesn’t even know my wife would have a crush on me!” “You congratulated her, and she came to tell me what a good person you are.” “Damn it!” I curled up in a corner, my mind in chaos. Sophia had a lover. Then what about Lucas? Lucas seemed to know what I was thinking and asked through gritted teeth, “You think I like her?” What else could it be? His diary was full of mentions of “little swallow.” Lucas took a deep breath, explaining uncomfortably, “That notebook was a birthday gift from Sophia. She likes to buy things with swallow patterns. When I wrote in it, I just liked to doodle…” Me: … “Besides, that diary is from a long time ago. I wrote it in middle school when I met a cute little girl. I was just starting to have feelings, it’s normal to have a first love, right?” He tried to explain, his voice getting lower and lower. “Forget it, there’s no point talking about this anyway.” “You like Ethan after all.” He said bitterly. But I felt my heart soften as I listened. I didn’t know who his first love was. But all his actions were telling me that he had once cared for me. Whether it was out of sympathy or something else. I should at least explain to him, “I’m sorry.” “I did, at one point, think I liked Ethan.” Lucas’s lips turned white from how hard he was biting them. “But later I realized I was mistaken.” I’m sorry, I only just realized that you were the one I was looking for all along. “Mistaken?” Lucas suddenly looked up. Seeing his expression of disbelief and joy, I smiled, “Yes, mistaken.” “It turns out I didn’t like him.” I like you. In every day we spent together. I was just blinded by my past notion of being saved. Lucas was very good to me. He could cook, and he made my favorite spicy chicken cubes exceptionally well, though unfortunately I couldn’t eat it now. He also knew I liked light green clothes, and when we went out, he bought me a light green shawl. The vendor praised, “Young lady, your boyfriend has good taste!” We both turned away, neither of us explaining the situation. When we got home that night, Lucas suddenly sidled up to me, “Emily, why didn’t you correct that person when they called me your boyfriend?” I thought for a moment, “Sorry, I just felt it would be troublesome to explain at the time.” His face fell, and he stormed off to make porridge, clearly upset. After washing the dishes, he couldn’t let it go. He snatched the TV remote, turned it off, and asked me, “Emily, does my presence bother you?” “When someone called me your boyfriend, you didn’t correct them just because it would be troublesome?” “Wasn’t there even a tiny part of you that didn’t explain because you liked it?” I curled my fingers. Of course it wasn’t because it was troublesome that I didn’t explain. I wanted people to misunderstand. But I’m dying. A dying person doesn’t deserve to talk about love. My illness was getting worse, and I was coughing up blood more frequently. Lucas, who had been ready to argue with me, was so frightened he didn’t dare say anything. Finally, after I fainted again, he cried. “Emily! Why are you being so cruel?” He cupped my face, kissing my cheek. I trembled all over, my heart shaking uncontrollably. “I’ve had my brother contact hospitals abroad. It’s all arranged. I’ll take you overseas for treatment.” “We’ll definitely find a way.” I slowly shook my head. Actually, I had overheard his phone call that day. Lucas had awkwardly called his brother. Ethan teased him on the other end, “It’s been three years since you inexplicably got angry and stopped calling me ‘brother’.” “Now you’re suddenly calling me ‘brother’ again, what do you want?” He had asked his brother to help find a doctor for me. But after reviewing my case, the doctors told him it would be very difficult. There was basically no hope. The night he received the news, Lucas cried for half the night. Then he wiped away his tears and came to see me, his eyes red as he asked, “Emily, can you forget about my brother?” “Can you stay and love me once?” I didn’t dare open my eyes. I didn’t dare answer. I want to, Lucas, I really do. That morning, I was feeling particularly good. I asked Lucas to bring me my shawl and push me to the seaside. Lucas received a phone call and asked me coldly, “When you asked for $200,000 back then, you only kept $30,000 for yourself?” “Huh?” I was enjoying the sea breeze, not sure why he was asking about this. “Your dad called me,” he said in a low voice. I suddenly looked up at him, “Don’t worry about him.” When I had asked for $200,000, I spent $10,000 on medicine, then brought some money with me to the coastal city. I gave the rest to my dad. After all, he had been good to me once. This was my last time helping him, fulfilling my filial duty. But I didn’t want to burden Lucas. His face darkened, “Your dad also told me he went to my house looking for you.” “He ran into Ethan and saw his grasshopper figurines. He said you had a few when you were little.” “Did you? Emily who lived by Reed River?” he asked, enunciating each word. My suspended heart finally settled. “Yes, I did.” I smiled faintly, “There was a chubby boy back then who said he could make them. He brought me one every week.” “At that time, seeing him was the happiest thing in my life.” So even though my dad would drink and beat me on weekends, I was still happy. Lucas knelt on the ground, burying his head in my lap, reproaching me, “Why didn’t you tell me earlier?” “I wrote so many diary entries for you.” “In those years when I first learned to like girls, my heart was full of you!” My hand froze in midair before finally landing on his head. I laughed through my tears, “I’m so angry!” “Back then, I thought you liked someone else. Who would want their husband to have someone else in his heart?” “Especially when you were so good to me at the time.” He had been very good to me then, taking care of me in every way. I gradually let go of my fantasies about Ethan and thought about having a good life with him. But it turns out, we were both foolish. After I died, Lucas took my ashes home. He ran into Ethan, who was with his wife. Ethan waved at Lucas, “Lucas, have you remembered everything?” Lucas paused, barely audible as he said, “Yes, I have.” “That’s good. Don’t keep fighting with Emily. Live a good life together.” “She’s not very talkative. As her husband, you need to take the initiative more.” Only then did Lucas realize that because his brother had just gotten married, his parents hadn’t told him about the divorce. They had only mentioned his car accident and forgetting Emily. Lucas forced a smile, looking down at the box in his arms. His eyes immediately reddened. “Okay.” He wanted to be with Emily, never to be apart again. Ethan noticed something was wrong with his mood. His gaze fell on the box in Lucas’s arms, and his pupils constricted. “Where’s Emily?” Lucas could no longer hold back his tears. He covered his face, choking out, “Brother, I’ve lost Emily.” Lucas thought back to that night when he was drunk. He had actually recognized Emily, which led to that incident. He was willing to marry her, but because she said, “If you don’t want to, we can live separate lives after marriage!” So he married her with a sullen face. They actually had a good period after the wedding. At that time, he secretly vowed to take good care of her, but two years later, he discovered her secret. Emily called out Ethan’s name when she was drunk, saying she wouldn’t like him anymore. She had secretly collected Ethan’s photos and plane tickets. Each item laid out before him spoke of Emily’s past crush on his brother. Lucas still remembered that feeling of anger and pain. He considered whether he should divorce Emily for her sake. After all, Ethan wasn’t married, and he had praised Emily as a good person. But he just couldn’t bring himself to do it. He maliciously wanted to keep her, never divorce, never let them meet. Emily was truly ruthless too. She only approached him twice, then never said anything again. Every time Ethan said he had something abroad and couldn’t come back, Lucas was especially happy. When Ethan started dating, Lucas was the one who told Emily. He cruelly observed Emily’s expression, feeling pleased by her slight sadness. … When he woke up after the car accident and first saw his parents, Lucas felt an inexplicable disappointment. It wasn’t until Emily came that the disappointment gradually faded, replaced by contentment.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296065”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #励志Inspiring

My husband lost his memory. He pinned me down, treating me like his lover: “Baby, I only want you. Don’t even think about making me marry that Lin guy.” Oh. But I am that Lin guy. He’s forgotten we’ve been married for three years, and that we were about to get divorced. Mason’s barrage of phone calls came through while I was still in a meeting at the company. The conference room instantly fell silent. I gestured for them to continue, put on my earpiece, and dialed the number. “Lucas! I called eleven times! Do you know how I’ve been trying to reach you all afternoon?!” The person on the other end was furious, not giving me a chance to speak. “Come back right now! Don’t make me say it twice!” “Otherwise you can forget about your $30,000 living expenses this month!” I calmly browsed through the $3 million cooperation project, realizing the person on the other end had finished speaking. “Okay, got it.” This response somehow set Mason off again. “What kind of attitude is that? Don’t you want your mom’s surgery fees?!” For the next half hour, the topic drifted to “my” alcoholic father, sick mother, and sister still in school. I sighed, regretting not having discouraged Mason from reading those melodramatic novels before. As the lecturing on the other end was winding down, I was starting to doze off and was about to take a sip of coffee. “How can you let your sugar daddy call you home every day?!” “As a kept man, you need to know your place!” I froze at those words, glancing at the ring on my right ring finger. A plain band. We’ve been married for seven years. He once put this ring on my finger himself, vowing to love me forever. Too bad he’s forgotten it all. When I got back, Mason was sitting on the couch, glaring at me angrily as he heard the door open. I raised my hands in surrender, “I bought some pork knuckles you like on the way.” Mason snorted coldly, “At least you know what’s good for you!” I let out a breath. I’d long since figured out Mason’s temperament – explosive, but easy to appease. But tonight Mason wasn’t buying it. “Why are you only getting back at 9:30 PM?” My foot, which had just stepped towards the bathroom, paused. I habitually took two steps back. “Overtime.” Mason narrowed his eyes, “When did you eat dinner?” “6 PM…” “You ate the lunchbox I prepared for you?” “Mm…” Mason pressed on, “How was the carrot?” “…” This question was definitely a trap. I kept a straight face, “I don’t remember any carrots in dinner.” “I hid them under the rice!” Mason gritted his teeth, “You just opened it for a look without eating anything, didn’t you!” …I’d let my guard down. I was so busy working until 9 PM, I’d completely forgotten food even existed. What a waste of Mason’s efforts. I hadn’t even opened the box… Seeing the storm brewing, I turned to go upstairs, heading straight for the bedroom. Mason took the stairs three at a time, blocking the door just as I was about to close it. He smiled ominously, “Baby, what did I say would happen if you didn’t eat properly?” “…” What else? He’d eat me after I finished eating… Tonight was destined to be another sleepless night. In the middle of the night, my stomach ulcer suddenly flared up. I gritted my teeth and endured it, afraid of waking Mason. I shrank back, trying to move to the side. But as soon as I moved, I was pulled back into an embrace from behind. The other person was clearly still asleep. “Baby, don’t move.” Mason’s hand came around from behind, his large palm resting on my stomach. “Lucas, be good. It’ll stop hurting soon…” Mason had never held and comforted me like this before. After all, our marriage was just a family arrangement. Back then, Mason had just taken over the company. When he learned of this news, he only contacted me for a meal. “Mr. Lin, this is the prenuptial agreement drafted by the lawyer, valid for three years or more.” I blankly accepted the thin paper. All the property figures on it became blurry, except for one line. [Mason and Lucas are lawfully wedded husbands.] Enormous joy made my heart pound, but I didn’t dare show it. If Mason knew he was the person I’d had a crush on for five years, he’d probably run away scared! I could only pretend to be calm and nod, “Whatever you say, Mr. Mu.” Mason took a sip of coffee. His handsome face showed no other expression as he simply nodded. “Then we’ll go get the marriage license today. We can hold the wedding in three days.” My heart jolted again, this time in genuine surprise. “So fast?” “Yes.” He glanced at his watch. “I’m very busy lately, the sooner the better.” A wave of disappointment suddenly welled up. So Mason was only rushing because of time constraints, not because he was eager to be with me. So I didn’t tell him that today was April Fool’s Day, not really suitable for getting a marriage license. Looking back now, it was fitting. Because our marriage, from beginning to end, was like a joke. Mason was a good husband. Although I knew the only “I love you” he’d ever said was just part of the wedding ceremony script. But he truly did his duty – never staying out overnight on business trips, never fooling around. So it wasn’t until the second year of our marriage that I found out he had a long-cherished love. Back then, Mason adhered to the principle of not interfering in each other’s affairs in an arranged marriage. He worked diligently every day, even on weekends. If I wanted to see him during the day, I could only go to his company to find him. I came at a bad time today. Mason was in a meeting. I was led to wait in his office. Like all CEO offices, Mason’s was simple yet grand, minimalist but luxurious. I scanned around, finally resting my gaze on a rabbit plush toy in the corner of a shelf. Behind that out-of-place toy, there was an inconspicuous crack in the wall that looked like a hidden compartment. I unconsciously walked over. When I was just an inch away from the toy, a low voice suddenly came from behind. “What are you doing?” I froze, turning to see Mason’s stern face. Only then did I realize how rude I’d been. “I’m sorry.” Mason walked straight to the couch, “Why did you suddenly come over?” I took out the pastries I’d prepared, “I was bored on the weekend and tried making some desserts.” Mason didn’t say much, just sampled a few and finally commented that they were good. Usually I’m the one livening up the atmosphere, but today I was distracted. My eyes kept darting to that toy. The flash of panic in Mason’s eyes earlier kept bothering me. What an ordinary plush toy, but the initials sewn on its heart were a bit unusual. — ML Like someone’s name. I thought I’d never have a chance to learn the truth, but coincidentally, just as I left Mason’s office that day, I ran right into someone. Coffee instantly spilled all over me. The person who bumped into me looked like an assistant, with fair skin and delicate features. My gaydar went off – I could tell at a glance he was gay too. More importantly, his name was Mark. Mark looked extremely guilty and quickly took me to clean up. When he realized my suit was custom-made and very expensive, he took out his phone. “Mr. Lin, let’s exchange contact info. I’ll definitely compensate you.” His profile picture was a cartoon rabbit. This instinctively made me take out my phone too. After adding him on Snapchat, I casually asked: “I rarely hear Mason mention you. Are you two close?” Everyone knew about my marital relationship with Mason. Although our feelings weren’t that deep, I still wanted to emphasize my position in front of others. “Of course!” Mark smiled lightly. “Our families are old friends. I grew up with Mason.” He paused, then looked at me kindly. “But don’t worry, Mr. Lin. Mason and I are just friends.” Even so, I still felt uneasy. As I was about to leave, Mark called out to me again. He smiled innocently. “Let me give you a ride, Mr. Lin! Mason has a meeting this afternoon. I can help bring him an important document.” Mason had strong boundaries. He didn’t like outsiders visiting or touching his things. But judging from Mark’s attitude, this clearly wasn’t the first time. Much later, I finally understood that perhaps I was the outsider. That night I drifted in and out of sleep, and my dreams weren’t very pleasant. So by the time I was fully awake, it was nearly noon. I was alone in the house. I washed up as usual and prepared to go out, planning to have my assistant bring me food at the office. Just as I was fully dressed, the door was pushed open. Mason came in carrying several plastic bags. He looked surprised to see me. “Where are you going?” “The office.” “It’s a day off today.” He then pulled me inside without further ado. “Don’t go to that lousy job anymore. Quit and I’ll support you.” “…” How could I quit my own company unless it went bankrupt? But I didn’t dare say that out loud. With Mason’s capabilities, he really could acquire my family’s company. “I bought groceries. Have a seat for now.” “How about tomato beef brisket for today?” Since losing his memory, he seemed to have become a different person, transforming from a workaholic into a perfect househusband. Not only did his personality become much more domineering, he was also incredibly clingy. As if I really was his kept lover. Lover… A name floated up in my mind. I laughed coldly to myself. So this was how Mason treated his lover. No wonder Mark was so eager to get close to him. Speaking of which, I’ve rarely seen Mark since Mason lost his memory. It doesn’t match how frequently we used to meet before. I tentatively asked: “You’ve been sick for so long. How come Mark hasn’t come to see you?” Mason frowned slightly, habitually glossing over the fact of being sick. “Mark? Am I close with him?” I didn’t comment. More than just close. He not only has your house key, but also knows your phone password. My silence made Mason increasingly doubtful. He pondered for a long time, then knocked on his head. “Isn’t he my childhood friend? Why are you bringing him up? What’s your relationship with him?” Mason actually remembered Mark. It seems he’s not far from fully regaining his memory. This farce of the past two months is probably coming to an end soon. I smiled, “He’s your true love, the person you really like.” “Impossible!” Mason’s face darkened. “My mind is full of your name. How could I like someone else?” He leaned in closer, his tone carrying a hint of expectation. “To be honest, after being lovers for so long, when will you agree to marry me?” “I’ve even thought about the ring design. It’ll be engraved with our initials.” I remained silent. When Mason first lost his memory, he tried to use his sugar daddy status to keep me by his side. I couldn’t stimulate him, so I could only gradually hint at the truth. “Don’t you remember you’re already married to the Lin family’s son?” But not only did he not remember, he thought I was urging him to marry someone else. Mason’s face darkened as expected. He leaned down over me. “Baby, I only want you. Don’t even think about making me marry that Lin guy.” Baby… That term of endearment made me shudder. I violently pushed him away. “Don’t call me that. It disgusts me!” Let’s go back to three months ago. The three-year term had just passed then. My relationship with Mason was still harmonious. He even cooked for me personally every day. I even thought living like this for a lifetime wouldn’t be bad. Mason had been busy lately. When he came home, I could only receive a cold message. [I won’t be back tonight. Don’t wait up for dinner.] After a few times, I still couldn’t help but find a chance to ask: “Has the company run into trouble recently?” “No, don’t worry about it.” Mason’s answer was within my expectations, but I still couldn’t completely put my mind at ease. In the end, I learned from Mark. “A project encountered a hitch at the last minute. The contract couldn’t be signed. The partners have some misunderstandings about Mason…” Mark said a lot. From his tone, the situation didn’t seem very optimistic. I didn’t think too much and inquired about more details of the project. As luck would have it, the partner was Mr. Zhang, whom I knew. “I might be able to help contact him about this matter,” I said, then paused as something occurred to me. “Just don’t tell Mason first.” Mark agreed. Mr. Zhang was a wealthy man who loved wine, women and song. After accompanying him drinking for four or five nights in a row, he finally relented. I hurriedly called Mason, ignoring my stomach pain, but he didn’t answer for a long time. In the end, I was in so much pain I had to go to the hospital. That’s when Mason suddenly called back. At the time, I was sitting on the hospital bed admiring the night view when Mark’s voice came through. “Mr. Lin, do you need something?” Mark’s voice sounded a bit flustered. “Mason drank too much. I saw you called many times, so I thought it must be urgent. That’s why I took the liberty of calling you back from his phone.” Took the liberty… So he knew Mason’s phone password. My heart sank, but I still tried to stay calm: “It’s nothing. I just wanted to tell him the issue has been resolved.” “Ah—” Mark exclaimed in surprise. “I forgot to tell you, my dad is good friends with the partner. The matter was settled long ago.” Settled long ago. So it was all just me being presumptuous. Bitterness welled up in my heart. This feeling was even worse than the dull ache still in my abdomen. I just couldn’t understand – if it was so simple, why did Mark deliberately make it sound so serious before? I lowered my eyes. “Are you two together right now?” “Yeah! Mason drank too much at the reception today, so I had to bring him to a hotel.” Footsteps came from the other end, probably Mark entering the room. Next, I heard a familiar breathing pattern, followed by a term of endearment uttered like in a dream. “Baby, don’t go…” The sourness in my heart reached its peak at that moment. I didn’t dare listen anymore and quickly hung up the phone. But Mason’s pet name kept echoing in my mind.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296064”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #励志Inspiring

I thought my marriage to Lucas Keller was just a business arrangement. Initially, my only impression of him was his perfectly sculpted butt. But now, it seems like I’m actually falling for him. When we first got married, Lucas said, “It’s just a marriage of convenience, don’t think too much of it.” A few months later, he pinned me against the car and said, “Can you stop going out drinking with other men? I really care about you.” “Can you kiss me again?” As soon as I returned to the country, my parents arranged a blind date for me. They thought I was too wild and needed someone to tie me down. So Lucas and I got married the day after we met. Apart from close relatives and friends, hardly anyone knew. The last time I saw him was on our wedding day at the courthouse. Now, five days later, I’m at my eighth welcome-home party, drinking with friends. “Move in,” read the message that popped up on my phone. I stared at it, confused, unable to recall who the sender was. Three minutes later, another message: “My mom said so.” The chat history showed we had only added each other as contacts five days ago. “Aria, what’s wrong?” My friends noticed my distraction. “What are you looking at?” “I can’t remember when I added this person,” I admitted. “Let me see,” Emma said, taking my phone. She scrolled down and another message appeared: “Five days and you’ve already forgotten who you married?” I gasped, “Oh, I think he’s my husband.” I took the phone back from Emma, trying to recall our two meetings. I could vaguely remember his appearance, but the most memorable thing was his perfectly sculpted butt. I couldn’t help but chuckle. “How could you forget that?” Emma teased. “I’ll give him a nickname now.” I clicked on his profile picture, which was blank, and his timeline empty. I saved him as “Mr. Perfect Butt”. When I arrived at our new home, my luggage had already been unpacked. As I walked up to the third floor, I noticed the study door was ajar. Was someone else in the house? I carefully pushed the door open. The creaking sound startled the person sitting at the desk. He suddenly looked up, his piercing gaze making my heart skip a beat. His features were strikingly handsome – high cheekbones, a straight nose, and a healthy complexion. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to disturb you,” I apologized. Lucas stood up and walked towards me. I took a half-step back, swallowing hard. He was about a head taller than me, exuding an air of nobility that made him seem like a young master from a wealthy family. I had to admit, my mom had good taste. I tilted my chin up, meeting his eyes. He took a few large strides out of the room. “This entire floor is the master suite,” he said. I followed him into the bedroom. “Your clothes have been put in the walk-in closet. The rest of your things upstairs haven’t been fully unpacked yet…” he was saying, but I wasn’t really listening. My eyes were drawn to the large, soft-looking bed. The duvet was pink, completely at odds with Lucas’s style. I sat down on the bed without thinking. It really was as soft as it looked! Lucas cleared his throat. “I’m not your real estate agent.” I raised an eyebrow. So what? Did I ask you to show me around? Why are you acting all high and mighty? I walked further into the room and noticed another smaller bedroom. “Are we going to sleep separately?” I asked. “If you want,” he replied in a low, deep voice that made it sound like I owed him something. “Then…” I hesitated. “The housekeeper works for my mother,” he interrupted. “Does one of us have to sleep in this smaller room?” I pointed to the inner room. “I don’t want to.” “Why not?” “They’ve already put pink sheets on the big bed. Would it be appropriate for you to sleep there?” I argued. Lucas’s brow furrowed slightly. After a long pause, he reluctantly agreed, “Fine.” The club was filled with pulsing music. Lucas lounged casually on the sofa, his legs crossed. “Hey Keller, why the long face? You just got married,” his friend Jack teased. “Other than having a marriage certificate, what’s different from before?” Lucas retorted. He clinked glasses with Jack and downed his drink in one go. “Aren’t you going to bring her out to have dinner with us?” Jack pressed. Lucas thought about the past two days living together. Aria had been getting home even later than him. They were living under the same roof but barely saw each other. “Maybe some other time,” he deflected. Lucas stood up to leave. “I’m going to the restroom.” “I’ll come with you,” Jack said. The men’s room was crowded and rowdy. Jack leaned in close to Lucas and whispered, “Isn’t that Marcus Lee from Joy Entertainment over there?” Lucas followed Jack’s gaze and saw Marcus Lee talking to someone by the sinks. Joy Entertainment was a longtime rival of the Keller family’s business. “Mm,” Lucas grunted in acknowledgment. As they turned to leave, they overheard part of the conversation. “Did you hear Aria Collins is back in the country?” “The Collins family’s only daughter?” Lucas paused mid-step at the mention of Aria’s name. “Yeah, I met her before. That waist, those legs, that chest… damn,” the man said crudely. The two men’s lewd laughter continued. “Forget about her family’s wealth, I’d want to get with her anyway. Wonder how wild she got abroad. Bet she’s been passed around…” Before the man could finish his sentence, Lucas’s fist connected with his face, drawing blood. Seeing Lucas attack, Jack rushed to join the fight. Marcus and his lackey were caught off guard, their eyes swelling shut from the blows. “Who the hell do you think you are?” Marcus sputtered. “Your daddy,” Lucas growled. The beating was far from over. Lucas grabbed Marcus by the collar and shoved his head towards the toilet. He could hear Marcus choking as he repeatedly dunked his head. Jack called from outside the stall, “I’ve taken care of the other guy.” “Come hold him down,” Lucas ordered. Marcus was still bent over the toilet bowl. Lucas kicked him hard in the back. The sound of ceramic breaking mixed with splashing water. “Watch your filthy mouth in the future, understand?” Lucas threatened. When there was no response, he kicked him again. “We should stop before it gets too serious,” Jack warned. Lucas looked at Marcus, who could barely open his eyes, but still felt unsatisfied. One final kick. “I’m sorry! I swear I’ll never do it again,” Marcus begged, collapsing to the floor. “Never do what again?” Lucas pressed. “I’ll never make crude comments in public again.” Another kick. “What about in private?” “I won’t, I promise!” Marcus pleaded. Lucas stormed out of the bathroom, his clothes stained with water and blood. He had lost all desire to continue the night out and decided to head home. When Lucas pushed open the bedroom door, he found Aria twirling and dancing with her eyes closed. He could tell she had been drinking without getting too close. His irritation from earlier flared up again. “Aria!” he called out sharply. She finally noticed someone else was in the room. She stumbled over to Lucas and rubbed his jacket sleeve between her fingers. “Did you just slaughter a pig or something?” she slurred. “Mm,” he grunted noncommittally. Lucas moved to let her pass, but she grabbed his sleeve. “Hey, I’m not a pig.” “Can you drink less?” he asked, exasperated. “I can hold my liquor,” she insisted confidently, though it wasn’t entirely true. “Who brought you home?” “The driver.” “Take some bodyguards with you next time you go out.” “Why? I hate being followed around.” Even Aria herself didn’t realize how whiny and coquettish she sounded. The comfortable home environment made her relax and unconsciously act spoiled. Lucas pressed his lips together, hesitating before saying, “I’ve made some enemies recently. They might try to get to me through you.” “Is this person hiding in the house?” Aria asked seriously. Her curly brown hair brushed against his arm as she leaned her head on his shoulder. “Drunk fool. Go to sleep,” Lucas sighed. Aria whimpered in protest but made no move to comply. Lucas shrugged off his dirty jacket and tossed it aside. His shirt underneath was clean. He grabbed Aria’s arm and pulled her towards the bed, his grip firm but not painful. “Ow, that hurts,” she complained. The sudden movement caused Aria’s dress to ride up slightly. Lucas noticed for the first time what she was wearing – a black off-the-shoulder mini dress that accentuated her pale skin. His gaze traveled up to the gold chain necklace resting on her collarbone, then to her flushed face. When she smiled at him, her eyes curved into crescents and her long lashes fluttered. She looked like a mischievous kitten ready to scratch. The bangles on Aria’s wrist jingled as she struggled against his grip. When he finally let go, there was a faint red mark on her skin. Lucas lowered his head. “I didn’t use much force.” The little kitten looked ready to pounce now. “It’s fine, I’ll magnanimously forgive you,” Aria said with a cheeky grin. “I’m going to bed now.” “Goodbye.” Her voice was soft and sweet, melting Lucas’s heart. Lucas’s father’s summons came urgently. Aria was barely awake when she heard Lucas urging her to get up. “My dad wants us to go over,” he explained. Aria let out a small whine. Lucas had already learned to interpret her sounds – this meant she was stalling. “Should I have the housekeeper drag you out of bed?” he threatened. “I’m getting up now,” Aria mumbled. Lucas headed for the door. “I’ll wait downstairs. Don’t take too long.” Once the bedroom door closed, Aria clutched the sheets and forced herself to sit up. What could be so urgent? She was exhausted. In the car, Lucas also felt uneasy. He wondered if news of last night’s incident had already reached his father’s ears. He hadn’t expected it to spread so quickly. He stared out the window, his breathing heavy. “Sorry to keep you waiting,” Aria said as she got in the car. Lucas turned to look at her. She was wearing a long white dress with subtle makeup and dainty square-toed flats. She looked completely different from last night. In contrast, he was wearing one of his usual suits. To an outsider, they might look mismatched, like there was a significant age gap between them. “Do I not match you today? I thought…” Aria trailed off, uncertain.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296063”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #励志Inspiring

For three years, Louis York kept me like a caged bird. Everyone envied him for having a wife who never argued. Even when I was pregnant, he sent me out late at night to buy condoms for them. I endured it without a word. Everything changed the night his beloved threatened to jump. He rushed to save her, and in the chaos, I lost our baby. When Louis arrived, he cradled his barely-scratched darling in his arms and carried her to the ambulance, leaving me bleeding on the rooftop. That night, for the first time in years, I picked up the phone and called my mother. “Mom, I want to come home.” Her familiar Mosani accent carried a hint of joy. “Great! Your grandmother and aunts have been waiting. Mosani women never marry outsiders. No one will protect you so far away.” I stared at my reflection in the hospital bathroom mirror. The once-rosy cheeks were now gaunt and pale, a jagged scar slashing across my left cheek. A bitter smile tugged at my lips. She was right. I was Mosani. In our matriarchal society, marriage was never binding. We lived with our mothers, our grandmothers, our aunts. Fathers were a distant concept. The truth was, I never needed Louis. Hanging up, I booked my ticket home. Clutching my abdomen, I shuffled out to discharge myself, only to run into Louis and his precious Lillie Cortez. Despite having nothing but a band-aid on her ankle, she exaggerated every step, milking the injury for all it was worth. Louis fussed over her like she was made of glass, his concern deepening with every dramatic wince. Then his gaze landed on me. He froze. A second later, his expression hardened. “What are you doing here?” As the hospital’s chief obstetrician, he should have noticed my pallor, the fresh scars from emergency surgery. But he didn’t. Lillie burst into tears. “Why did you even bother saving me? I have no family, no love. Death would be a mercy…” Louis panicked, pulling her close. “Who says you’re unloved? “I’m your family now. The world may abandon you, but I never will. “I’ll always be your rock, Lillie. “Wherever you go, just turn around. I’ll be there.” Their melodrama was nauseating. I turned to leave, but Louis stopped me. “We’re having friends over for dinner tonight to welcome Lillie. “Cook something local, but no spice, no garlic, no ginger. She’s allergic. No meat or grease either, because of her injury. And make her favorite mushroom soup…” He rattled off her preferences effortlessly, then tossed me a laundry bag. “Hand-wash her silks. Change the detergent. She hates the scent.” Pain flared in my abdomen, but his demands made my skin crawl. I finally snapped. “Do you even care how I’m doing?”

Louis blinked, his gaze searching my face. Lillie broke into fresh sobs. “I should just die! Then I wouldn’t be a burden to you!” That set Louis off. “Kailey Harris, enough!” he roared. “I’m an OB-GYN! If something were wrong, I’d know! You survived falling off a cliff and carried me ten miles. Quit the theatrics!” We had met in my hometown. Lost in a storm and bitten by a snake, he’d stumbled upon me while I was out gathering herbs. I sucked out the venom and dragged him to the hospital. That rescue had cost me a broken arm and a body covered in thorn scratches from tumbling down a cliff. And now, my resilience was his excuse for cruelty. Meeting my tear-filled eyes, Louis hesitated for a moment before snapping at someone else. “She’s depressed! She can’t control how she feels! “Why are you deliberately making it worse?” All this over a single question. His outburst left me speechless. The last time Lillie scarred my face, I merely glanced at the mirror and was immediately accused of guilt-tripping her. That night, I did nothing. Her laundry sat in a heap in the bathroom. When Louis came home, he was furious. Friends stepped in, placating him. “She’s pregnant. Don’t make her do chores. Let’s go out for dinner. Lillie’s favorite.” So, all along, it was Lillie who had been wanting me to cook the meals. As they headed out, Lillie turned back with a smirk. “Coming with us, Kailey?”

At dinner, Louis fawned over Lillie. When she wanted roasted chestnuts, he burned his fingers peeling them for her. The slightest complaint about spice had him rinsing every bite. Yet during my pregnancy, he wouldn’t even buy me oranges from the shop downstairs. When someone raised a toast to Lillie, Louis snatched the glass from her hand. “She’s injured. No alcohol.” Lillie pouted. “Just one sip!” Then, casting a pointed glance my way, she added sweetly, “But Kailey has wine.” I hadn’t touched mine since the miscarriage. Still, Louis snapped at me. “You’re pregnant! Do I really need to remind you?” Silence fell over the table. Awkward laughter quickly shifted the focus back to Louis and Lillie. “Louis has always been her knight,” someone chuckled. “When I crashed my bike with Lillie on the back, he nearly beat me up!” “That’s nothing. I got death threats just for watching porn with her!” another chimed in. Laughter died as their eyes flicked toward me, the current wife. A voice muttered, “Just reminiscing, no offense.” Louis’ blatant disrespect gave them permission to pile on. After my face was scarred, one of his friends sighed, “Regretting your choice now? “Should’ve waited for Lillie to come back. “You only picked her because she looked like her. “Now that her face is ruined, nothing’s stopping you from going back.” They envied Louis’ blindly devoted wife. Little did they know, Mosani women didn’t marry. We stayed with our partners by choice, leaving when love faded. Why bind two hearts with a piece of paper? Not even their gossip could shake me now. My indifference made Lillie’s eyes gleam with malice. Giggling behind manicured fingers, she asked, “Is it true Mosani women sleep around and raise fatherless children? “Are all your women so… available?” Then, with mock innocence, she added, “How many men climbed into your bed before Louis?” My face went cold in an instant. My hand tightened around my utensils, trembling with the effort to suppress my anger at her calculated provocation. Right on cue, Louis chimed in.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296062”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #浪漫Romance #励志Inspiring #校园School #重生Reborn

My wife, Gigi Chapman, worked as a flight attendant. It all started when I boarded a flight she was working on. I was minding my own business when I heard unmistakable noises coming from the lavatory. Before I could even process what was happening, Gigi stepped out, followed by some foreign guy. That was when I stumbled upon the airline’s dirty little secret. Gigi was a stunner as a flight attendant. She was nearly five-foot-seven, with a figure that was just about perfect. I mean, she could turn heads in an instant. We’d known each other for five years, married for three, but we’d barely spent any real time together. Gigi loved the freedom of flying, so after we tied the knot, I gave her all the space she wanted. Our only real couple time was on weekends when we were both off. That day, the company sprung it on me that I had to go overseas to check out a project. Then, by coincidence, I ended up on Gigi’s flight. To cut costs, they only got me an economy seat, but I managed to upgrade on my own. After that, I slapped on a hat and a mask right after security, all geared up to give Gigi a surprise. Once I boarded the plane, I spotted Gigi right away. Even among all those other flight attendants, she stood out like a sore thumb, looking as gorgeous as ever. With her leading the way, I settled into my seat, but oddly enough, first class was practically empty, just me and three other guys, all foreigners, each with an iced Americano in front of them. “Sir, what can I get you to drink?” “An iced Americano, please.” I tried to keep my voice down on purpose. But for some reason, I could practically see Gigi’s mood lift right before my eyes. “I’ll be right with you.” There were three flight attendants in first class. Besides Gigi, there were two other stunning women. I’d just slipped into my slippers when one of the girls, Monica Geller, Gigi’s colleague, took a tumble and landed right in my arms. I caught her instinctively, then helped her up. “You okay there?” “Thanks, sir. I was so clumsy. Need anything else?” “Nah, I’m good. Thanks.” My attention snapped back to Gigi, who was swaying toward me with my drink, but there was a flash of anger in her eyes. I thought, “Oh, crap. Did she recognize me?” Then, I realized she wasn’t making a beeline for me. Instead, she told Monica, “Monica, watch your step next time. You mess up again and make a passenger unhappy, I’ll bust you down to economy.” “I’m sorry, Ms. Chapman. It won’t happen again.” Since when did Gigi have that kind of authority? I was gobsmacked, having no idea she was the chief flight attendant. “You’d better hope this gentleman forgives you.” As Gigi spoke, she swung her gaze my way and handed the iced Americano to Monica. Monica crouched down a bit, her cheeks turning beet red, her eyes darting around, and handed me the drink with both hands. “Mr. Lewis, would you be kind enough to forgive me?” “Sure, don’t sweat it.” I took a swig of the iced Americano. Then, I shut my eyes, pretending to rest before I blew my cover. Monica let out a sigh of relief and tagged along with Gigi as they left. It wasn’t until the plane took off that I cottoned on to what that cup of iced Americano was all about.

“This flight’s gonna be a ten-hour haul, and we’ll touchdown at eight tonight.” The moment Gigi said that, two of the foreigners hopped to their feet. Another flight attendant swooped in and said with practiced ease, “Gentlemen, the lavatory is right this way.” Half an hour later, the third guy, Dominic Monaghan, also got up. This time, it was Gigi who greeted him. “Right this way, Mr. Monaghan.” I had a sneaking suspicion something was off, thinking, “Everyone’s gotta pee at the same time? But there are only two lavatories up front. What is this, a magic airplane?” Another ten minutes or so passed, and not a single one of them came back. I was even more flummoxed. Were they all having tummy troubles the second they boarded the plane? Just then, Monica scurried over and crouched down next to me. “Mr. Lewis, allow me to show you to the lavatory.” “What? I’m not ready to go yet.” I was caught off guard and couldn’t help asking, “How many lavatories are there anyway?” Monica blushed and said, “Six in total. Four in first class and two at the back.” Was that for real? I was bowled over and thought, “Maybe it’s because I hardly ever take these international flights.” Half an hour later, the two foreigners finally sauntered back, looking as content as could be. They were just plain weird, and I couldn’t help but give them a side-eye. I was just about to head to the lavatory myself when Monica swooped in like she had radar. “Mr. Lewis, the lavatory’s this way.” The first-class treatment was something else. I cracked a smile and followed Monica to the lavatory. Just as my hand touched the doorknob, a breathy whimper slithered into my ears. My hand froze in mid-air. I thought, “Who the heck are they? What are they doing something like that on a plane for?” I frowned, turned on the faucet, and was about to wash my hands. The next second, the door swung open, and Dominic came out, still hitching up his pants. “Your service was top-notch. I’ll be asking for you next time.” “Thank you, Mr. Monaghan.” Hearing the woman’s voice, I whipped around in disbelief. Gigi trailed out after Dominic. She had sweat on her face, her makeup was smeared, and her clothes were all wrinkled. Her black stockings were gone, and she didn’t seem to notice or care. Instead, she snapped at Monica behind me, “What are you just standing there for? You gonna let the passenger wait like this?” Monica shivered and yanked me into the lavatory. “Mr. Lewis, I’m not very good at this. Maybe you could take the lead?” I was so distracted I didn’t even hear Monica. “Mr. Lewis, let me help you take off your pants…” She started undoing my belt, and that was when I snapped back to reality and pushed her away. “Is this what you call service?” Monica’s face drained of color, and she dropped to her knees. “I’m sorry, Mr. Lewis. I…” Before she could finish speaking, I interrupted her, “I’m not blaming you. Just tell me, what the heck is your service all about?” Monica peeked up at me nervously. “Mr. Lewis, you ordered an iced Americano, right?” “What’s that got to do with it?” “If it’s an iced Americano, a flight attendant is required to provide you with service unconditionally throughout the whole flight.” I was rocked to my core, and the last shred of hope I had was gone. My breathing sped up. Then, I spun around and was about to make a break for it. Monica clung to me like a limpet and begged, “Mr. Lewis, please. If you go out like this, Ms. Chapman will think I didn’t do my job right and I’ll get demoted. Please, help me. Let me serve you just once!” I turned around and glared at her coldly. “Do you even realize this is illegal?” Before Monica could say a word, there was a knock on the door. Then, Gigi’s voice came from outside. “Sir, Monica’s still learning. I need to give her some pointers. Could you open the door?” “Nah, we’re good here.” It took a full minute before Gigi’s retreating footsteps finally faded. Then, Monica’s eyes welled up with gratitude. “Mr. Lewis, please, just let me do my job. If I don’t, I’ll get written up, and I…” “If you don’t wanna get a complaint filed against you, just do as I say, okay?”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296061”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #浪漫Romance #励志Inspiring #校园School #重生Reborn

My family wanted me to choose someone for an arranged marriage, but I wasn’t ready to settle down yet. So I picked a notorious playboy prince as my husband, thinking we’d both do our own thing after getting married. I didn’t expect that when I was partying at a bar late one night, he’d send people to shut the whole place down. He shooed away the male models keeping me company, then placed my hand on his abs with a pitiful look: “I may not have dated before, but I can learn whatever you want.” On my 20th birthday, my parents told me I needed to choose someone for a business marriage arrangement. My brother laid out photos of eligible bachelors for me to pick from. “This is the eldest son of the Cloud family. He has exceptional intelligence and leadership skills, and heads Cloud Corporation. This one is the second son of the Qi family. Not only is he handsome, but he also has a brilliant mind and is pursuing scientific research. And this is the eldest son of the Fu family. His looks are impeccable, but… he spends all his time idling about, eating, drinking and having fun…” “I’ll take him,” I said without hesitation, pointing to Ethan Fu, the Fu family’s eldest son. My parents and brother were stunned. They never expected I’d choose a notorious playboy. First of all, I’m all about looks, and Ethan was extremely handsome in his photo. I liked that. Secondly, I’d heard he had quite the reputation as a player in the city. Most importantly, I wasn’t done having fun yet. Choosing someone who also liked to party meant we could each do our own thing. Perfect. I got so drunk on our wedding night that I blacked out. I have no idea how I even made it to the bridal suite. When I woke up the next morning, Ethan was already sitting on the couch playing video games. He glanced up at me: “You’re awake?” “Yeah. Is there anything to eat? I’m kind of hungry,” I said awkwardly. It was pretty embarrassing that the bride had gotten wasted on her wedding night. Ethan pointed to the kitchen: “There’s warm milk and eggs in the kitchen.” I brought out the milk and eggs and started eating. “Sorry about last night. I drank way too much,” I said between bites. “I understand you were excited to marry me. But you really shouldn’t drink that much. Good thing I was there, or you’d have spent the night hugging the toilet.” When he said the first part, I wanted to punch him. As if I was thrilled to marry him! But hearing the second part, I held back. Sounds like I must have been quite a handful. My girlfriends were all texting me to come out, so after breakfast I rushed out the door. Ethan wanted to come with me but I refused: “Bro, you’re too handsome. Better not come or my girls will be all over you.” The corners of his mouth turned up in a slight smile as he acquiesced to my decision. I thought to myself, shouldn’t a guy that good-looking be desensitized to compliments by now? Why did he seem to enjoy being praised so much? This was my first time going out with my girls after getting married. Everyone was excited and peppered me with questions about the wedding night and my new husband. I shut it all down with one sentence: “I was drunk, I don’t remember anything.” My answer clearly disappointed them. But partying was our real purpose: “Girls, go wild tonight. Drinks are on me!” We went from karaoke to the bar. Before we knew it, it was the middle of the night. Before I got married, my parents would call to nag me to come home when it got late. Now that I was married, no one could tell me what to do. Haha, I was going to party as much as I wanted. I tossed my phone aside. It’s not like anyone was going to call and tell me to come home. Ethan was probably out drinking with his friends too.

One of my girlfriends tried to convince me: “Mia, maybe you should head home. It wouldn’t be good if your husband gets upset.” “No way! We have no real feelings, it’s just a business arrangement. Why would he care about me? Besides, isn’t it better if we each do our own thing?” As I spoke, I called out to the male model across from me: “Pour me another drink, let’s keep going!” Just then, the bar owner came in looking nervous. He told the model: “Mr. Fu is here. You all need to leave, quickly.” Next thing I knew, Ethan walked in. His face was expressionless as he scanned the room, his gaze finally landing on me. Seeing Ethan sobered me up instantly. “What are you doing here?” I asked. Before he could answer, my girlfriends all grabbed their purses and abandoned me, leaving just the two of us in the VIP room. He came and sat down next to me, gazing at me tenderly. I have to say, he was the most handsome man I’d ever seen. As our eyes met, I felt my heart start to race in a way I’d never experienced before. The next moment, he took my hand and placed it on his abs, saying pitifully: “I may not have dated before, but I can learn whatever you want.” Hmm? I couldn’t detect any hint of lying in his eyes. But I just didn’t believe him. Wasn’t he supposed to be a notorious playboy? How could he have never dated anyone? My hand was forced to roam over his abs. My fingertips felt electrified by the contact, sending tingles through my entire body. My face flushed hot as I quickly pulled my hand away. “It’s late, we should head home,” I said. The corners of his mouth turned up as he obediently replied: “Okay, wifey.” This was my first time being alone with a man while sober. I couldn’t help feeling nervous. I grabbed my most conservative pajamas and went into the bathroom. When I came out, he had already showered and was lying on the bed waiting for me. In the soft light, his chiseled features, damp hair, and long lean body made me swallow hard. I’d seen plenty of male models at the clubs before, but none of their looks or physiques compared to Ethan’s. How could I not be attracted? “Come to bed, wifey,” he said softly, patting the space next to him and winking at me. I often went out partying with my girlfriends and had seen lots of men, but I’d never actually shared a bed with a stranger before. Now that I was about to lie down next to him, I suddenly felt very nervous. Seeing him gazing at me so tenderly, I wondered if he was planning to do that with me. At the thought, my face turned bright red. I quickly said, “Um, I’m on my period, so don’t get any ideas.” He burst out laughing: “Wifey, what are you thinking? Even if you weren’t on your period, I wouldn’t force you if you didn’t want to. Come on, let’s just sleep.” For some reason, I believed him and climbed into bed. The next second, his strong arm wrapped around my waist, pulling me tightly against him. The more I tried to wriggle free, the tighter he held me. “Stop squirming. I just want to hold you while we sleep. If you keep moving around, I can’t guarantee what might happen next,” he whispered in my ear, sending shivers down my spine.

That’s when I felt something poking me from behind. It was very uncomfortable. I froze, not daring to move a muscle for fear of what he might do next. A few moments later, I heard his steady breathing. He had fallen asleep. I finally relaxed and tried to escape his grasp. “Don’t move. Go to sleep,” he mumbled in a low voice that startled me. I didn’t dare move again. I had planned to wait until he was in a deeper sleep before sneaking away, but I ended up falling asleep myself without realizing it. The next day, he suggested we go to the store to buy some snacks and groceries, since this would be our home now and we should stock up. I do enjoy snacks and fruit, so I agreed to go to the store with him. In addition to snacks and fruit, I also bought some feminine products to have on hand. He bought lots of vegetables, rice, and other staples. I was surprised. Wasn’t he supposed to be a playboy? Did he actually know how to cook? “You can cook?” I asked. “A little bit,” he replied. Actually, I can cook too. When I studied abroad, I couldn’t get used to the food there so I taught myself to make dishes from home. But I’m lazy and just want to have fun. I rarely set foot in the kitchen unless absolutely necessary. As we passed by the checkout counter, his eyes lit up when he saw some small boxes on a shelf. He immediately grabbed two and tossed them in the cart. I quickly averted my gaze, pretending not to notice, but my cheeks instantly turned red. Even when we were checking out, I was too embarrassed to look at those two boxes. We had just left the store when a woman in a miniskirt called out to Ethan. “Ethan, baby! I’ve been looking everywhere for you,” she said coyly, reaching for his arm. Ethan stepped back to avoid her. “Ethan, when I heard you got married, I couldn’t sleep all night. We…” “We should keep our distance. I’m a married man now,” Ethan said, taking my hand and interlacing our fingers. The woman looked dissatisfied, giving me a disdainful glance before continuing: “But baby, it’s my birthday today. Can’t you celebrate with me?” His brows furrowed as he said coldly: “No.” “You two chat, I’ll wait in the car,” I said. I didn’t want to get involved in his personal life, just like he stayed out of mine. You can’t keep tabs on a man who isn’t faithful anyway. And this was just a business arrangement, we had no real feelings for each other. “Let me get the car door for you, honey,” Ethan said, hurrying to open the passenger door for me. The woman rushed over, saying in a cutesy voice: “Ethan, baby, can you give me a ride? It’s on your way.” “It’s not on our way.” “But I haven’t even said where I’m going yet!” “Wherever you’re going, it’s not on our way.” After coldly dismissing her, Ethan turned to me and said gently: “Buckle up, honey. Let’s go.” As we drove off, I saw the woman stomping her foot angrily in the rearview mirror. I almost burst out laughing. Ethan glanced at me, looking annoyed: “What’s so funny?” He seemed upset. Was it because I was there, interfering with their plans to meet up later? I stopped smiling and said: “Is she your… ex-girlfriend? Or just one of your many conquests? The way she looked at you was pretty intense.” “She looks at any rich, handsome guy like that. I would never have anything to do with her.” “Oh really? That doesn’t seem like your style. I thought a player like you would always have women around…” Before I could finish, he slammed on the brakes, pulling over to the side of the road.

By the time I came to my senses, his handsome face was right in front of mine, so close I could feel his breath. If either of us moved even slightly, our lips would touch. I suddenly felt very nervous, barely daring to breathe: “What are you doing?” “As my wife, do you want me to be surrounded by other women? Do you want me to be with lots of women?” “I… that’s not what I meant.” “You weren’t even a little upset when that woman was all over your husband?” “I…” I shook my head slightly, but seeing the anger flashing in his eyes, I quickly nodded instead. What I didn’t realize was that my face had turned bright red and my breathing had become rapid. The next second, one of his hands cupped the back of my head while the other tilted my chin up. He kissed me, starting gently but quickly becoming more passionate and demanding. He didn’t give me any time to react. My first kiss, gone just like that. Just as I was about to suffocate, he finally released me, looking satisfied. “I’m your husband. You’re supposed to get jealous when other women talk to me, got it?” he lectured. He forcibly kissed me and then had the nerve to scold me! He continued: “And everything you’ve heard about me is just rumors. It’s not true.” I stared at him in disbelief for a long moment before reluctantly nodding. He could tell my nod was forced. He shook his head helplessly and said: “Let’s go home. I have something important to take care of tonight.” Something important to do tonight? I suddenly remembered those two boxes he bought at the store and felt nervous all over again. That evening, he took me out to dinner, saying some of his good friends wanted to get together. I didn’t want to go, but he refused to let me stay home: “You should meet my friends. I don’t want to keep any secrets from you.” I wanted to say I didn’t care about any of that, I just wanted my freedom to party as much as I wanted. But I ended up going along. He introduced me to the five or six people there as his good friends. It was from his friends that I learned the truth – his playboy reputation was entirely fabricated. He had two reasons for creating that image. One was to avoid taking over the family company and being tied down to work. The other reason was to avoid marriage. Once people heard about his womanizing ways, no one dared try to set him up anymore. “Then why did you agree to marry me? Am I just a shield for you?” I asked, confused. His friends exchanged glances and laughed: “You’ll have to ask Ethan about that. We have no idea.” They didn’t answer my question, but I realized why Ethan had brought me out tonight. He wanted his friends to help clear up the rumors about him. Whether it was true or not, it showed he was making an effort. “So Ethan, tell us about all the romantic things you’ve done since getting married,” his friends said, looking at us curiously. I wondered, did they mean him storming into the bar to bring me home late at night? Or encountering that clingy woman outside the store? Or forcibly kissing me in the car? “Can’t you guys talk about anything else?” Ethan said, giving his friends an exasperated look. Then he turned to me and asked gently: “Are you still hungry?” I quickly shook my head, smiling. I knew I was acting a bit fake. Normally I’m very casual and straightforward, not all sweet and smiley like this. But I was trying to save face for this man. After all, I was his wife. “Want to go for a walk?” he asked me. “Sure,” I agreed readily, standing up. Even though they were his good friends, I still felt a bit awkward meeting them for the first time. At that moment, I actually felt more relaxed being alone with Ethan.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296060”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #浪漫Romance #励志Inspiring #校园School #重生Reborn

“Lily, please stop being angry. She really means nothing to me now,” Jack said as he reached out to grab me. I was cornered against the wall with nowhere to escape. Just as I was about to use all my strength to push him away— My boss grabbed Jack’s arm and yanked him back forcefully, stepping in front of me protectively. His whole body radiated cold fury as he growled, “What do you think you’re doing to my wife?” I had liked Jack Thompson for a long time, throughout my entire youth. But he had also liked his goddess for just as long. I chased after him for five years, while he chased after his goddess for four years. It’s not that he stopped chasing her – she just went abroad. … His family lived right next door to mine. Since childhood, he was always the “perfect kid” my mom compared me to. When my mom scolded me for being useless and said I couldn’t compare to him in any way, I felt both envious and resentful towards Jack. I wished he had never existed in this world. But when he appeared downstairs in a white shirt, riding his bicycle and gently calling out, “Lily, it’s time to go to school,” my heart would beat uncontrollably. “Let’s break up.” After sending him this message on SnapChat, I deleted all his contact information. His goddess had returned from abroad. Yesterday he told me that it was my birthday tomorrow, and he would give me a surprise in the evening. It was the first time he had ever prepared a surprise for me. I spent all day getting ready, from morning till night. Full of joy and anticipation, I arrived early at the restaurant we had agreed on. I waited from 8 pm until midnight. I didn’t get to see him, but I did receive photos of him helping his goddess into a hotel room. To be honest, when I saw those photos, I laughed. But what I didn’t realize was that my laughter looked just like crying. This wasn’t the first time something like this had happened. Every time, he would gently stroke my head afterwards and tell me, “She was upset and needed someone. She’s fragile and needs company.” And every time, I would say, “It’s okay, don’t worry about it. Just comfort her, I’ll be fine on my own.” I carefully nurtured our relationship, afraid that even the slightest setback would sever the bond I had worked so hard to create. In this relationship, I had lowered myself to the extreme. But this time, I didn’t want to put up with it anymore. It was past midnight, and the dorm was closed. I didn’t want to go back there either. After letting my roommates know, I headed straight to a bar, planning to drink myself into oblivion and bury this fruitless love. In the end, I really did get drunk. I ended up hooking up with some hot guy for the night. The next morning. I opened my eyes to find a handsome face right in front of me. I stared blankly for two minutes before coming to my senses. Then I realized this handsome face belonged to my internship company’s boss!! After a quick check, I found myself completely naked….!! I covered my mouth, trembling. My brain felt oxygen-deprived and I couldn’t breathe. I can’t believe I dared to hook up with the boss!! People weren’t lying when they said alcohol and lust lead to trouble. So many people in the company wanted him but didn’t dare make a move, and I actually… ! Run! I need to run away! My mind went blank except for that one thought. I saw our clothes scattered messily on the floor. I planned to get out of bed, put on my clothes, and run. I carefully inched from the head of the bed to the foot, about to put my feet on the ground. Then I heard a deep voice from above me. “Where are you going?” At that moment, my mind crashed, going completely blank. But for some reason, a guilty feeling started bubbling up from deep inside. Because I had no idea what happened last night… I was afraid that I had taken advantage of my boss, since I had planned to get drunk and have a one-night stand… But this was my boss! The object of so many people’s fantasies! A lazy voice came from his lips, “Do you remember what happened last night?” I lifted my head slightly, too guilty to turn and look at him. From the corner of my eye, I saw him sit up against the headboard, broad shoulders tapering to a narrow waist, defined abs, clear muscle definition… To be honest, seeing his physique, I felt like I had hit the jackpot last night. But since I couldn’t remember anything that happened, I also felt like I had lost big time. My feelings were suddenly very complicated… “I… I don’t remember,” I said weakly. “But I won’t tell anyone about last night!” I turned my head to face him, my eyes determined. I was ready to swear an oath to prove my resolve. “What, you’re planning to avoid responsibility? Now you’re pretending not to remember?” His voice deepened as his dark eyes stared intently at me. “What? Take responsibility?!” I stared at him in shock, completely caught off guard by him saying I should take responsibility. “Last night you grabbed my hand and said you’d take responsibility, that’s why I came in.” He said matter-of-factly. I… “How should I take responsibility?” He calmly uttered two words: “Get married.” ?!! “What?” I couldn’t believe my ears. What kind of talk is this? It was just a one-night stand, but he wants me to give up my whole life for it? “Or I could let everyone at the company and your school know what you did.” He glanced at me sideways. “You, you, you can’t! Besides, then everyone would know you were forced into it. You’d lose face even more.” He listened to me finish, his eyes growing darker as he seemed to consider something. After a moment, he said slowly, “I don’t care.” …Well that’s quite the “I don’t care.” But I do care. I felt a bit wronged, but couldn’t say anything. “Is there any other way to resolve this?” He stared at me silently, his eyes deep and the atmosphere growing increasingly oppressive. I could only stammer out, “Then… when should we get married?” “Tomorrow morning at 9am.” My eyes darted around as I agreed with a “Okay.” “Don’t try any tricks. I have your ID card.” He leaned back comfortably against the headboard, twirling my ID card in his hand. “…I know, don’t worry.” I felt deflated as I sat at the foot of the bed, sighing. He seemed unable to bear seeing me so dejected and unwilling. Frowning, he stared at me and said, “Come here.” I didn’t want to go. But my body instinctively obeyed the boss’s order. By the time I came to my senses, I was already next to him. He reached out to pinch my face, pulling me closer as he said softly, “Be good.” His hot breath tickled my ear, making my heart race uncontrollably. Without realizing it, I replied, “Okay.” At the marriage registration office. I held the brand new marriage certificate in my hands, feeling a bit surreal. I never imagined I’d be getting married before even graduating college, let alone to my boss, and in such a whirlwind fashion. Lust really does make you lose your mind! Sitting in his car as we drove away, I still felt like this wasn’t real even after 10 miles. “Where to?” “Huh? Oh, back to school. I don’t have to go to work today, right boss? I should get marriage leave!” There had to be some perks to getting married. I carefully put the marriage certificate away in my bag. He glanced at me and snorted, “How ambitious.” Hearing him mock me, I immediately turned to glare at him. I stared so hard my eyes started to hurt, but he didn’t react at all, not even glancing in my direction. “We’re here. Stop staring, he’s all yours now. You can look all you want when we get home tonight,” he said teasingly. He pinched my cheek and turned my face towards the window, pointing outside to remind me. Oh, we’ve arrived at school. Apparently I had been staring at him for quite a while. Seeing his playful expression, I suddenly felt my face grow hot. But I still wanted to argue and defend myself. Then my brain suddenly registered what he said. ?? Go home? Who said I was going home with him tonight? I turned my head, about to question him, when I realized his face was extremely close to mine. I could see my own clear reflection in his pupils. “W-what are you doing?” “Why are you stuttering?” His hand was still pinching my cheek. He squeezed again, making my lips pucker up. He looked confused, but I could clearly see amusement in his eyes. Is he laughing at me?! I wasn’t stuttering, it’s just that he was too close and my mind flashed back to that wild, chaotic night. That night, he had been so passionate, almost unlike himself. Beads of sweat rolled down his chiseled jawline, our breaths intertwined, his grip on my waist inescapable no matter how I tried to get away… “What are you thinking about? Why is your face so red?” I felt my face grow even hotter. “N-nothing. Get away from me.” “Get away? Like this?” He said he’d move away, but he got even closer. So close that if I moved even slightly, my lips would touch his. I didn’t dare move an inch! I felt my face start to stiffen. His hand still gripping my cheek, he pulled me closer and pecked my lips. Seeing no reaction from me, he deepened the kiss. ! I felt my heart start to race. I could barely breathe. “Breathe,” he said huskily as he pulled away slightly. My head felt fuzzy. I let out a small gasp before gradually sinking into his expert kissing. When I got out of the car, my lips were swollen and red. My face was flushed and my eyes looked a bit dazed. Anyone could tell what had just happened. “Did you just get out of that Bentley? Look at yourself! Don’t degrade yourself like this!” As I got out of the car and walked towards the school gates, someone suddenly grabbed my arm forcefully and started berating me. Jack’s face was full of disappointment, anger, and gravity, as if I had betrayed him. “Do you even know how old he is? Did you enjoy it that much?” There were a lot of people coming and going at the school entrance. Hearing what Jack said, they all turned to look, as if I was some kept woman who had snagged a sugar daddy. Standing in the crowd, my swollen lips seemed like damning evidence. Feeling everyone’s judgmental stares, I felt awful and angry to the point of trembling. I never expected Jack would think of me this way, let alone humiliate me in public like this. I had liked him for five years, but now those five years felt like a joke. I couldn’t take it anymore. “Who are you to lecture me? When you were cuddling and being all lovey-dovey with someone else, did you ever consider how I felt?” He looked at me in disbelief, as if he hadn’t expected me to bring up his goddess. “She didn’t have anyone to take care of her. I was just looking after her.” Looking after… I let out a cold laugh. “Whatever. We’ve already broken up.” With that, I shook off his hand and tried to enter the school. I didn’t want to be gawked at like some circus animal anymore. But I had barely taken a step when he grabbed my arm again. “What do you mean we broke up?” “What break up? Have you not even looked at the message I sent you yesterday?” He took out his phone to check the messages. In that moment, my heart suddenly clenched painfully. Apparently being ignored hurts even more than not being loved. Even though I had told him we were breaking up, I still couldn’t help feeling upset. “You’re breaking up with me just because I took care of her? We’re just friends.” Some friend. Do friends need to be “taken care of” all night? Are friends more important than a girlfriend? I didn’t want to argue with him anymore. I tried to walk towards the school, but he kept holding onto my arm, insisting on clearing things up. A crowd had gathered around us. I felt on the verge of a breakdown. Why couldn’t he just let me go when I was trying to set him free? While he was still grabbing me, I caught a glimpse of my boss pushing through the crowd. I felt like the anger was making me hallucinate. The boss had already left, how could he be back? It wasn’t until he reached out to grip Jack’s shoulder, pulling him away from me and blocking Jack’s view of me, that I felt it was real. “Didn’t you leave?” I said softly from behind him. He didn’t respond, just turned his head slightly to look at me, his eyes reassuring. Suddenly, I felt at peace. Then he turned to face Jack, his aura imposing and expression severe. Jack was stunned, taking half a step back and opening his mouth wordlessly. My boss spoke slowly, but somehow authoritatively, “Stop harassing my…” ! Hearing him about to say “wife”, I quickly pinched him and glared at him from behind. He paused for a moment before continuing, “girlfriend. She has nothing to do with you anymore!” With that, he put an arm around me protectively and led me away through the crowd. After we had walked some distance, Jack seemed to get over his initial shock. He yelled angrily from behind us, “Who do you think you are?!” Hearing him shout, I wanted to turn back and look. But before I could, Lucas gripped my head and kept me facing forward. “What, still can’t let go?” he said softly in my ear, his breath tickling me. From afar, it probably looked like he was nibbling my ear. “You… just talk normally, don’t get so close. It tickles.” He didn’t say anything, just looked at me, waiting for my answer. Slowly, I started to feel the pressure. “I’m not hung up on him…” “Don’t forget, we just got married. Are you trying to make me a cuckold?” His tone was low, his eyes threatening. “…” “And if someone’s bullying you, don’t you know to call me?” I hemmed and hawed, trying to change the subject. It honestly hadn’t even occurred to me to call him. We weren’t that close… Even though we had just gotten married, he was always so cold and aloof at work. He seemed to radiate an icy aura when he wasn’t talking. How could I dare to bother him? “Why did you come back?” “Someone called me,” he said, glaring at me as if scolding me for not calling him for help myself. “They said you were being harassed at the school gates.” “Who was it? How do they know me? And I’m not avoiding calling you, I just didn’t have a chance. He was grabbing my arm the whole time.” I finally thought of an excuse, though it was also the truth. I held out my reddened arm for him to see, proving I was telling the truth. His gaze fell on my wrist, his expression suddenly turning cold. He seemed to radiate an icy aura, as if he had discovered some beast intruding on his territory. He reached out to encircle the red marks, caressing them as if trying to erase someone else’s touch. Seeing his change in expression, I felt a bit uncomfortable. I tried to pull my hand back, but he held on tightly. I could only try to change the subject. “Why me?” He stared at me silently. After a while, he let go of my hand and stood up. “I’ll pick you up tonight to go home.” “Huh? So sudden? I haven’t…”prepared yet. Before I could finish, he had already abandoned me and left. Leaving me standing there bewildered… My phone suddenly buzzed. I took it out and saw he had messaged me saying he’d pick me up at 6pm. I…” So domineering and high-handed. How annoying. Back at the dorm, I realized he hadn’t answered either of the two questions I asked him. I pouted. Whatever, I don’t want to know anymore! Lost in thought, I felt someone gently tap me. “Lily, what’s going on with you and Jack? There are a bunch of posts on the school forum saying you hooked up with some rich guy and dumped Jack.” “Isn’t he always flirting with this girl and that girl? Some idiot must be spreading rumors. It’s all nonsense!” “I already cursed them out for you. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back!” Seeing my roommates’ concern and unconditional trust in me warmed my heart. “Jack and I broke up.” I didn’t want to tell anyone about my sudden marriage to my boss yet. I could hardly believe it myself. “I have nothing to do with him anymore.” My tone was light. “That jerk, good riddance! You’re way too good for him. You’re such a beauty, you could have any guy you want.” “Exactly! Girl, I’ll introduce you to some guys. I know tons of eligible bachelors!” “Haha, the guys you’d introduce? No thanks.” My roommate glared at her. “What’s that supposed to mean? The guys I’d introduce to Lily would be top-notch!” “Haha, yeah right. Dream on.” Just as my roommate was about to playfully hit her, there was a knock at our door before it opened. We all turned to look. To our surprise, it was Jack’s goddess – Emma White. She looked around the room before fixing her gaze on me, her eyes scrutinizing and hostile. “Are you Lily Evans?” I was confused. Why was she looking for me? My roommates exchanged glances, recognizing her as well. But they tacitly remained silent, just coldly staring at her. Emma waited a moment. Seeing I wasn’t responding, she walked over and pointed at me. “I’m talking to you. Are you deaf?” From the corner of my eye, I saw my roommate about to stand up to protect me. I held her back and stood up myself. “Yes, that’s me. What is it?” “Come outside. I have something to say to you.” “Whatever you have to say, you can say it here. We don’t have anything that needs to be discussed privately.” She paused for a moment. “I’ll let you have Jack. You give me Lucas.” Lucas – my boss. Seeing her entitled attitude, I almost laughed. Did she really think my boss was something I could just give away?! “What, you think you get to decide this?” I said mockingly. “Does Jack know you’re trading him away?” “Just tell me if you agree or not.” I let out a cold laugh. “What do you think? I don’t know what Jack sees in you that makes him so devoted.” Jack is truly blind. “You still like him, don’t you? This benefits both of us.” “First of all, these two men aren’t objects to be traded. Secondly, I think you need to get your head examined. Lastly, get out of our dorm!” As soon as I finished speaking, my roommates all stood up in unison, gesturing for her to leave. She had opened her mouth to curse at me, but seeing so many of us, her bravado deflated significantly. She turned to leave, but not before threatening me: “You just wait!” After she left, my roommates burst out laughing. “Damn girl, you’ve gotten so sharp-tongued! You should have told off that jerk like this before!” “Yeah, haha! You need to keep being this fierce, you hear me?” My roommate put her arm around my shoulder, speaking earnestly. I nodded at them, agreeing with an “Okay.” It felt so good to have my roommates backing me up. Otherwise I might have been too timid… Suddenly my phone on the desk buzzed with a message from my boss. [By the way, I forgot to mention – not only are we going home together today, but we’ll be living together from now on. Remember to pack your things. I’ll pick you up at 6.] For the first time, I felt like my phone’s notification sound was way too loud… The screen wasn’t locked, so not only did I see the message, but my roommates saw it too. “Ahh!! Lily! Are you moving in with your boss? That super handsome boss who’s around our age?” “…Um, yes.” I felt a bit guilty, not daring to say that I had already slept with my boss. “That’s awesome, Lily! This is exactly what you should do. We’ve been telling you forever that your boss was into you, but you never believed us!” He really wasn’t into me. It was all my fault… But I couldn’t say that out loud. It would sound so unconvincing. My boss was asking me to live with him – who would believe me if I said he wasn’t interested in me? I chose to keep my mouth shut. At 6pm. [I’m here at the east gate. Come out.] I slowly dragged my suitcase into his line of sight. Feeling his stare burning into me, I unconsciously quickened my pace… “It took you half an hour to walk this short distance? Why don’t you wait until 6am tomorrow to come out?” “Oh, you meant 6am tomorrow? I didn’t know. I guess I’ll see you tomorrow then.” I started to turn around and go back. But he grabbed the hood of my sweatshirt. “Where do you think you’re going? Get in the car.” He dragged me into the car, efficiently tossed my suitcase in the trunk, and got in himself. He moved so quickly, as if he couldn’t wait to be alone with me. My heart suddenly fluttered a bit. Did he really like me? “You haven’t eaten, right? What do you want for dinner?” I was being silly. He was just hungry and impatient to eat. “…Anything is fine. You decide.” He turned his head and stared at me, then tilted his chin up slightly as if gesturing at something. I looked down at myself. My clothes seemed fine. “What is it? Is there something on my face?” He didn’t say anything, but leaned towards me. His breath fanned across my face. It smelled nice. I suddenly felt flustered. What was he trying to do?! “You…” Is he going to kiss me again? “Seatbelt.” His arm reached across me to fasten my seatbelt. “We’re about to leave.” “…Oh, okay.” Help!! Thank goodness I didn’t ask out loud. That would have been so embarrassing! I suddenly felt my face heating up. I quickly tried to cool it down with my hands. He didn’t notice, right… I sneakily turned my head to glance at him, only to find myself staring straight into his deep eyes. Then I heard him laugh out loud. … He figured it out!! I felt like my face was about to burst into flames. “Why is your face so red?” He knew very well why. I turned my head away, showing him the back of my head in protest. After a while, I heard him say, “Alright, don’t be mad. I’ll kiss you when we stop the car.” !! My eyes suddenly widened. What kind of thing was he saying? “That’s not what I meant!” I turned to glare at him, only to see his grin stretching from ear to ear. He was teasing me again. How annoying. He pinched my cheek. “I’m done teasing you. Let’s get out, I’ll treat you to dinner.” Just as he was about to open the door, I quickly grabbed his face and pulled him towards me, planting a firm kiss on his cheek. After the sneak attack, my own heart started racing uncontrollably. Taking advantage of his stunned state, I quickly said “I’ll get out first” and ran off. I was afraid of getting caught and having my plan backfire. But I also knew I could run from the immediate situation, but not forever. After all, it’s not like we’d never see each other again. But… whatever. I got my revenge for now. I looked up to survey my surroundings. Luckily there was only one building nearby, otherwise I wouldn’t have known where to go. Before I could walk over, I felt a hand grip the back of my neck. “You think you can kiss me and run?” The man’s voice was low and husky, his lips right next to my ear, his breath tickling me. A tingling sensation suddenly spread throughout my body. “I…” I shrank back a bit, wanting to retreat and put some distance between us. But as soon as I moved, he gripped me even tighter. “You what?…” He was about to lean in closer to speak when he saw someone walking towards us. He gave my neck a squeeze and said in a low voice, “I’ll settle the score with you later.” Then he let go of me and looked up at the approaching person. “I saw you from far away. What are you doing standing around out here? Feeding the mosquitoes? Come on in, we’ve been waiting for you.” The man tilted his head and stood on tiptoe to look at me. … “Hello, I’m Lily Evans.” “Hi there, I’m Henry Shaw. You can call me Henry.” After greeting me, Henry turned to Lucas and said with a wink, “I didn’t expect you to bring such a beautiful woman without saying anything. We thought you were single – Charles was going to set you up with someone.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296059”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #浪漫Romance #励志Inspiring #校园School #重生Reborn

I encountered my neighbor’s older brother, who had gone missing a year ago, on my first visit to a nightclub after getting into college. He had his arms around two scantily-clad women, looking like a good-for-nothing. When he saw me, his gaze flashed across my chest before he clicked his tongue dismissively. Later, he pinned me against the wall in a corner, his finger pressed against my lips as he leaned in, demanding I call him by name. That’s when I realized. He wasn’t my Ethan Parker. I met Ethan Parker in the dim hallway of Nightshade. Nightshade was the biggest entertainment venue in the city, attracting all sorts of people. My roommate Lucy was celebrating her birthday and had reserved a private room at Nightshade. I arrived late and was about to call to ask for the room number when I heard the laughter of men and women echoing from the far end of the hallway. A group appeared at the end of the corridor. I was going to turn away to avoid them, but I froze when I recognized one of the men. That face I had dreamed of countless times, only to wake up startled. The one I had spent nearly every day with for over a decade. My childhood friend, Ethan Parker, who had been presumed dead in the river a year ago according to the police.

I blinked hard several times. I triple-checked to make sure I wasn’t mistaking someone who looked similar for him. But the more I blinked, the closer I came to tears. Because I knew without a doubt that I wasn’t mistaken. Ethan Parker had been part of 80% of my brief 18 years of life. He was the person I was closest to after my parents. He was also the person I had secretly loved for a very long time. He had disappeared without a trace a year ago. I never imagined I would encounter him again in a scene like this. Two scantily-clad women were nestled in his arms, one on each side. Perhaps I had been staring for too long, as a strange man beside him noticed me. He gestured to the others and teased: “Which of your old flames is this ” “Look, she’s about to cry just seeing you.” The man across from me turned his head, our eyes meeting for just an instant before his gaze fell to my chest. His eyes roamed shamelessly as he spoke dismissively: “A scrawny little girl like that As if I’d be interested.” Ethan Parker would never say such things. But this man was clearly him. I bit my lip and held out my phone to him: “Can I… add you on SnapChat ” He looked at me with a mocking smile. “No.” His gaze fell to my chest again, his tone tinged with regret: “Not worth my time.” The men around him burst into laughter.

The person before me and the Ethan Parker who had been by my side for over a decade were like polar opposites. Or rather, they were like two souls inhabiting the same body. Ethan Parker would never say such things. He was too good. Like a piece of pure, flawless jade. And I was too lucky. Using my status as his childhood friend to stay by his side. During that winter break in my sophomore year of high school. I asked Ethan Parker for a promise. I hoped he would come pick me up on the day of our final exams. My oversized scarf hid my slightly reddened ears, concealing my secret thoughts from him. At that time, Ethan Parker looked at me with a smile, his phoenix eyes narrowing slightly, but he didn’t answer. He just raised his hand and gently ruffled my hair. The New Year’s bells were about to ring. Fireworks filled the sky and firecrackers exploded all around. I thought the surrounding noise was too loud, so I had to stand on tiptoe and lean close to his ear. “Ethan.” “On the day of our final exam,” “Will you come pick me up ” The firecrackers were really so loud, so loud. So loud that I couldn’t even hear my own voice. But I still heard him lean in close to my ear and say solemnly yet intimately: “Okay.” But he broke his promise. That day when I stood in the surging crowd, looking around in confusion. When all the noise and clamor rushed at me from all sides. He didn’t come. All my expectations had come to nothing. When I numbly knocked on his door that day, what I saw were his parents who looked like they had aged ten years. And the devastating news they told me with reddened eyes.

But I never believed it. I thought he had just gone missing. Perhaps one day, I would run into him at some street corner, or in some convenience store. Or maybe one day he would suddenly show up, saying he had just been in hiding. Ethan’s group had left. In the end, I still hadn’t managed to add him on SnapChat. Lucy found me still standing dazed in the hallway. She grabbed my shoulders and shook me: “Olivia ” “Olivia Carter! ” “What’s wrong You didn’t answer my calls, the room is right there.” “Why are you crying ” Her tone was urgent, then suddenly turned apologetic: “The music was too loud in the room, I didn’t hear your message…” “It’s nothing,” I lowered my eyes, “I’m fine, let’s go in. Don’t let me ruin your party.” The atmosphere in the private room was lively. I sat down in a corner and saw Lucy’s reply with the room number on my phone, along with her two missed calls. As well as a new SnapChat message from Ethan’s mom. — Olivia dear, how are you adjusting to college life Ever since learning of Ethan’s disappearance, I had stayed in touch with his parents, almost like their half-daughter. My fingers hesitated as I typed. I thought of that man’s laughter as he turned away, casual and unrestrained. In the end, I still couldn’t bring myself to say it. — I’m doing well, Auntie. — Please take care of yourselves, you and Uncle.

The people in the private room were having a blast. I tried to join in their fun for a while, but my mind was elsewhere the whole time. I excused myself to use the restroom midway through. The hallway was very quiet. I followed the signs towards the direction of the restroom. Suddenly I heard the sound of fabric rustling. The scene before my eyes appeared abruptly. The woman pinned against the wall by a man suddenly pushed him away, her voice still coy: “Someone’s coming.” The man chuckled lowly and turned around: “Since when did you become so shy…” His words trailed off, traces of the woman’s crimson lipstick still on the corner of his mouth. It was undoubtedly the same face that had just rejected me. I stared at that smear of red on his lips, my face turning pale. The man before me met my eyes and suddenly grinned, grabbing the woman’s hand as he spoke suggestively: “Let’s continue in the room.” The woman in his arms wore a tight dress that accentuated her curves. Hearing his words, she just glanced at me briefly before immediately giggling in agreement: “Okay~” My whole body went cold. I could only watch their retreating figures, moving further and further away. My feet felt like they were filled with lead. Until they finally disappeared at the end of the hallway.

It shouldn’t be like this. My Ethan Parker was as pure as a clear breeze and bright moon. When he saw me he would smile gently and call my name softly: “Olivia.” When I was little I called him “big brother”. Every time after school, he would wait for me at the school gates with his backpack. I would always shout excitedly: “Big brother!” Then I would proudly tell my teacher: “My big brother is here to pick me up!” “Goodbye, teacher.” Later when I grew up and entered my rebellious phase, I liked to call him by his full name. “Ethan Parker! Don’t tell my mom.” “Ethan Parker, I was wrong.” “Ethan Parker, what should I do ” He was never annoyed, always responding patiently, patting my head and helping me clean up all my messes. “Ethan Parker.” “Will you always protect me ” “I will.” The young man wore a white shirt, his posture tall and straight. The hem of his shirt fluttered in the wind as I secretly grasped it, unable to see his expression from the front seat of the bicycle. His voice was clear and frank: “I’m Olivia’s big brother.” “Of course I’ll protect Olivia for life.” No way. I didn’t want to just be your little sister. I pouted, not daring to speak, only able to hug his waist in frustration: “Then ride steadily!” Actually the road was smooth with no obstacles. He paused for a moment, laughter bubbling up from his chest, but he didn’t argue, just obediently agreeing: “Okay.” Later when I started to have romantic feelings, I grew out my hair and wore pretty dresses, calling him “Brother Ethan”. By that time Ethan Parker had gone to college in another city, rarely coming back. His shoulders had broadened and his legs had grown longer, cutting an imposing figure. There was a hint of coolness between his brows, but it would all melt away into a smile when he saw me. My heart had been fluttering for so many years. During those days in my senior year of high school, every time I looked up at the moon late at night, I thought about just hanging on a little longer. If I could just get through this period. I wanted to get the best grades possible, then stand before him and confess all the girlish feelings and bittersweet emotions I had harbored for decades. Tell him that I liked him, had liked him for a very long time. That thought gave me the motivation to face all those dry and tedious exam questions again. But this person I encountered today. He didn’t resemble his former self at all.

By the time I came back to my senses and wanted to chase after them, they had already disappeared. I didn’t want to give up. I wanted to see him one more time. Whether he had amnesia or was just pretending. At least confirm it was him, let his parents know that Ethan Parker was still alive in this world. I hadn’t managed to get his contact information. The only connection I had with him was “Nightshade”. So I resorted to the most foolish method. I went to stake out “Nightshade”. I saw him again. This time he was smoking with a group of men, surrounded by three or four tough-looking guys. I suddenly felt intimidated, not daring to approach. But I was spotted by that same man from last time. He suddenly grinned, gesturing towards me to Ethan Parker. Ethan Parker turned his head, giving me a cold glance. Immediately after, that woman from before appeared again. His expression changed in an instant, a hint of a smile curling his lips as he reached out to pull the woman into his arms by her waist. The woman nestled obediently against him. I stood in the corner, watching as the whole group walked into a private room, laughing and chatting. In that split second, I caught the woman’s backward glance filled with threatening intent. Like a rose laced with poison. Cold sweat soaked through my clothes as I leaned against the wall, gasping for breath. 7 It wasn’t until I splashed some water on my face in the restroom That I seemed to find a bit of reality in the chaos. He wasn’t Ethan Parker. Yet he was Ethan Parker. Ethan Parker was like the sun in the sky, always gentle, always passionate. But the year and more he had been missing was like an insurmountable chasm, so divisive. The restroom door suddenly opened. In the mirror, a young and alluring face appeared behind me. Her wavy hair cascaded over her shoulders. Her makeup was too heavy, like an elaborately painted mask. It was that woman from before. She raised an eyebrow. “It’s you ” A flash of surprise crossed her expression. I turned around, meeting her gaze directly. The woman walked towards me in her 5-inch heels, looking down at me condescendingly. “Stay away from him.” Her gaze fell to my chest, with the same disdain and contempt as Ethan Parker’s. “Did you really think someone like you would catch his eye ” She curled her lip in a scornful, haughty smile. As if mocking me for overestimating myself. But I only latched onto that name in her words, the illusory and the real seeming to intersect in that moment. I felt like I had found an outlet for my overwhelming emotions. “What did you call him ” My voice was a bit hoarse. She seemed not to have heard clearly. “What’s his name ” “You just called him Ethan—” I stared into her eyes, like a drowning person grasping at the last straw, my voice choked with tears as I demanded: “Tell me—” “Who is he ” Is he, is he Ethan Parker The familiar name got stuck in my throat. In the end I couldn’t say it out loud. The person before me was startled by my reaction. She reached out and shoved me hard. A dull, heavy thud echoed in the small space as I fell to the ground. The dirty water on the floor soaked through my once-clean clothes, but I paid it no mind. This woman called Sophia grabbed my collar, leaning in close. The sickening smell of her overly sweet perfume mixed with a nauseating odor. “You don’t even know who he is, little girl.” “Let me give you some advice – stay away from him.” “Otherwise—” “You might end up dead somewhere and no one would even know.” The last words floated lightly in the air, but felt like sharp ice piercing my heart. Before she finished speaking, the door was suddenly flung open. The subject of our conversation burst in, out of breath. When he saw me on the ground, I clearly saw his already irritated expression turn even colder. But it was only for an instant. He pulled Sophia by the waist, taking out a wad of cash and expertly tucking it into her bra with a suggestive smile: “I won’t be needing you tonight.” “I’m in the mood to try something new.” I saw Sophia’s face change instantly as she started to protest: “No…” But Ethan Parker cut her off with a fierce look: “Get lost.” Sophia was taken aback for a moment. She glanced back at me, but I couldn’t make out her expression against the light. She quickly turned back, taking off her high heels and hurrying out.

Only the two of us were left in the room. Ethan Parker bent down and roughly pulled me into his arms. I crashed against his chest, not having time to react before being pinned against the wall. The cold marble pressed against my back as his restless hands undid the buttons on my top. The dim bathroom lighting was hazy and suggestive. The chill crept in through my open collar, the cold wall steadily sapping the warmth from my back. The cold and fear gradually spread throughout my body. Tears of physiological response welled up in my eyes, driven by instinctual terror. That face so close to mine was both familiar and strange. Only a small scar below his eye was new. It was him. Yet not him. I was at a loss, only able to softly repeat that once most familiar name. “Brother Ethan…” The hands unbuttoning my clothes paused for a second. The man before me raised his hand to press against my lips, caressing them suggestively as his phoenix eyes looked up at me: “Such a sweet voice, but you’ve got the wrong person.” “Call me Ethan and let me hear it.” His words were like a knife cutting through illusion and reality. I suddenly snapped out of it, shoving him hard as I desperately fought back. But my hand accidentally tore open the buttons on his shirt. Large areas of scarring sprawled across his exposed skin, layers of overgrown scar tissue blooming like a flower below his heart. A flower that had blossomed by consuming life. I froze for a moment, my hand brushing against his arm, feeling tiny uneven needle marks under my fingertips. I jerked my hand back as if burned. It wasn’t him. “You’re not him.” “You’re not him.” “I don’t know you.” “Get away from me!” Tears suddenly fell. “Figured it out ” The man’s voice was lazy as he wiped away a tear from my face, the corner of his mouth curling in an amused smile. He leaned in, his hot breath fanning across my neck and shoulder as his hand slid under the hem of my shirt to my waist, sending chills through my body. “Too late.” The bathroom door was suddenly kicked open again. The man who burst in, face full of anger, pulled back his foot. That hand hovering at my waist froze. “Ethan, what the fuck are you doing in such a rush !” “Mr. Reed is looking for you guys, everyone’s been missing for ages.” “You’ll die if you don’t get your rocks off for a bit ” I heard the fury in the newcomer’s voice and instinctively shrank back. The man took a step closer, his expression changing to a teasing grin when he saw my face: “Not Sophia ” “I thought you said you weren’t interested in young girls ” Ethan let go of me without another glance, buttoning up his own shirt as he joked back with the newcomer: “Can’t let good meat go to waste when it’s delivered to your door.” The man cursed crudely and Ethan laughed as he picked up the thread of conversation. As the two were leaving, he suddenly turned back, pulling out a wad of cash and throwing it at me. The bright red bills scattered in the air, floating down all around. Like mockery. Like derision. The bathroom door slammed shut. I collapsed to the ground, the dirty water soaking through my once-clean clothes, but I paid it no mind. In that moment when hope was shattered, it felt like a tree being violently snapped in half, blood gushing from the broken stump. Brutal. And cruel. I knelt on the ground, pathetically gathering up the bills that had fallen into puddles with trembling hands. One by one. Mumbling to myself. He’s not Ethan Parker. He’s not Ethan Parker. As if trying to convince myself. In the end they all fell to the floor again. Scattered in a pile. I finally broke down. He wasn’t Ethan Parker. My Ethan Parker had gone missing a year ago. Maybe, He would never come back.

I didn’t go back to Nightshade. I returned to school and continued my freshman year. Occasionally I would stare blankly at the moon on the horizon. But I never expected to run into Sophia again. Lucy and a few other roommates were trying on clothes in a store at the mall. I was absentmindedly scrolling on my phone. The bubble tea I had ordered was ready. A notification popped up on the app, so I stepped out of the store first, intending to go pick up the drinks. The click of high heels on the mall floor wasn’t out of place, but I instinctively looked in the direction of the sound. I happened to see that familiar face, carrying several shopping bags, still haughty as ever. She met my eyes, curling her red lips in a provocative, challenging smile. “You don’t look so good, little girl.” “Finally learned your lesson, huh ” I didn’t answer. I just stared at her expressionlessly. She seemed annoyed that I hadn’t responded, her pride stung. Anger flashed in her eyes as she raised her hand to slap me. The wind from her hand brushed past my face. But it didn’t land. She seemed even more furious at missing. In her high heels, she suddenly grabbed my hair. My scalp stung sharply as tears welled up in my eyes from the pain. She leaned in close to my ear, snarling viciously: “Come with me.” I was forcefully dragged into the restroom. The curious gazes of passersby were cut off as the door closed. She yanked my hair hard, pulling my head back. My body stumbled, crashing into the wall. When I looked up, a slap was flying straight for my face. Getting hit. It’s going to hurt.

The phone on the counter kept ringing. Curious glances from strangers fell on me before quickly looking away. Sophia had already left. I looked at myself in the mirror, my whole body soaked as if I had been drenched in water. Wet strands of hair dripped down. My eyes were red to the point of bleeding. The phone rang again, finally breaking through my daze. Lucy’s anxious voice came through: “Olivia where are you We’ve been looking everywhere and can’t find you!” “I’m in…” My voice was hoarse to the point of being unrecognizable. “Second floor… bathroom.” Lucy and the others rushed over when they heard, all startled when they saw me. The three of them surrounded me, Lucy taking out tissues to wipe the water dripping down my face. “Olivia, what happened ” My roommate’s voice was gentle. I couldn’t say. Everything got stuck in my throat, tangling into a heavy ball of yarn, sealing my vocal cords and blocking my mouth. I could only bury myself in Lucy’s arms. The girl’s embrace was soft and warm. She hugged me back, gently patting my back. “It’s okay.” “Olivia.” “It’s okay.” When I was ten, I was stopped by some older kids and inexplicably pushed to the ground, taking a hard fall. The ringleader cursed at me with several vulgar words. When I saw Ethan Parker after school, the floodgates of my pent-up emotions burst open.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296058”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #浪漫Romance #励志Inspiring #校园School #重生Reborn

There are seven days in a week when I don’t want to work. To fulfill my wish, my boss ran the company into bankruptcy. Now I really don’t have to work anymore. Heartbroken at not being able to earn my workhorse wages, I chose to go crazy in the group chat. [Boss, will we ever meet again?] [Boss, please be happy when we do meet again, okay?] [Boss, how can I live without you!!] [Boss, take me with you boss~~] The group chat was silent for a few seconds, then exploded with laughing emojis. Everyone started joining in: [Boss~ don’t go~] I replied: [I’m not going~] Just as the atmosphere was getting lively, the boss replied with [Okay.] My phone suddenly felt hot in my hand. Before I could reply, the boss messaged me privately [Tomorrow at 10, wait for me downstairs at your place.] I stared at my phone, lost in thought. Why? Was the boss planning to elope with me? If I had known, I wouldn’t have talked nonsense! I don’t want to live a life of starvation with the boss for three days out of every nine! Thinking of this, I replied tactfully: [I have a blind date tomorrow to find a sugar daddy, we’ll meet again if fate allows, boss!] To show I was serious, I even sent a “sorry” kneeling emoji. After sending the message, I started a game. What was the point of being a diligent workhorse for three years? It was all so I could achieve financial independence and go out and have fun. Only an idiot would get married. But I have to say, Lucas was truly a godsend of a boss – no overtime, no team building activities, and the salary arrived more punctually than my period every month. Plus there were all kinds of bonuses from time to time. Most importantly, the boss was so handsome! Easy on the eyes. So after working for three years, I had saved up a bit of money. Take it one step at a time, worst case I’ll die halfway. But after finishing a round of the game, an image of Lucas looking sad popped into my mind. The company going bankrupt was already tragic enough, what if he did something stupid if I didn’t go meet him!? Then wouldn’t I become the final straw that broke Lucas’s back? After tossing and turning all night, I still decided to go see him. The moment I sat down in Lucas’s car, I stared at his fair, slender hands and thought with some regret that this might be the last time Lucas would be driving a Rolls-Royce one-handed. Lucas was silent the whole way. Sigh, the boss must be heartbroken. I opened my mouth to comfort him: “Boss, don’t be too sad. If we work hard, we can still make a comeback.” “When we make it big again, we’ll come work for you.” Lucas remained silent, not saying a word. He’s not thinking of crashing the car with me, is he!? The car stopped in front of another villa, and my heart slowly settled down. Lucas finally spoke: “Does what you said yesterday still stand?” My heart that had just settled down leapt up again. What I said yesterday? I couldn’t even remember what I ate yesterday. After pondering for a while, I tentatively said: “Boss, take me with you?” Seeing that I still remembered, Lucas rested one hand on the steering wheel, looked towards the villa, and said: “I promised my dad that if my startup failed, I’d go back home to inherit the family business.” Wow, so my boss was a hidden rich second generation. Wait, then what was all my heartfelt consoling just now? Was it all for nothing? Lucas continued: “But after I went home, my dad said I’m not stable enough to inherit the business unless I get married.” I silently swallowed my bitterness. I almost thought the boss was about to get rich, but it seems being a rich second generation isn’t so easy after all. Perhaps my sympathetic gaze hurt Lucas, as he cut straight to the point: “I thought about it, and I think your proposal isn’t bad, so let’s get married.” “That way I can inherit the family business.” What the hell!? Who taught you this, Lucas!? You think this is some kind of business collaboration with a good proposal! I covered my forehead, trying to reason with him: “Boss, that’s not how inheritance works. You just need to show your uncle your abilities.” As soon as the words left my mouth, I regretted it. I forgot Lucas had just run a company into bankruptcy. I changed the subject: “Besides, I can keep working for you. What’s the point of getting married?” Want me to work for free? Think you don’t have to pay me after we’re married? Luckily my mind was spinning quickly, otherwise I would’ve been tricked. Seeing through it all, I looked at Lucas with a hint of coldness in my eyes. Truly an evil capitalist. As if seeing through my thoughts, Lucas analyzed it for me: “Working for me, monthly salary $30,000. Being my wife, monthly salary $300,000.” “You choose. I’ll respect your decision.” One shouldn’t be too greedy. So I gave him a sweet smile: “Hubby!” Lucas took me to get our marriage certificate that same day. When taking the ID photos, just thinking about the $300,000 made the corners of my mouth curl up uncontrollably. $300,000! If I stick it out for a year, that’s $3.6 million. Three years, and it’s $10 million. By then, even if I become a discarded rich man’s wife, so what!? I can totally use that money to buy a car and house outright and reach the peak of life, hahahahaha. I looked at Lucas with starry eyes and coyly asked: “Hubby, why did you choose me?” Could it be that Lucas has secretly loved me for years? Lucas’s eyes were full of mirth: “Because you’re good at acting.” With those words, I who had been waiting for Lucas to say something touching froze in place. What did I act? Other than faking being sick a few times when I didn’t want to work, what else did I act? Besides, how can a workhorse’s affairs be called acting? Seeing my unconvinced face, Lucas helped me recall: “A month after joining the company, you said you had gastroenteritis and needed to be hospitalized. Later I found out you were drinking with the new employees, and when I caught you, you immediately performed a fainting act on the spot.” “Two years after joining the company, you said you had a bad breakup, and even found someone to perform a breakup scene outside the company. Later I found out it was an actor you hired, $20 an hour.” “And…” “Stop! Stop stop stop stop!” I reached out to cover his mouth. How does he know everything? Is he omniscient? Lucas spoke with difficulty with my hand over his mouth: “So I think you have great potential.” I was rendered speechless. To be able to find my strengths from these things, Lucas truly… has an eye for discovering beauty. Scrolling through social media, I saw that Lucas had posted our marriage certificate photo. Within seconds, I was bombarded with messages from former colleagues. [WTF Rachel, how did you become the ex-boss’s wife!?] [True love really does emerge in times of trouble. Wishing you a hundred years of happiness, and wishing the ex-boss a comeback!] [Ex-boss’s wife! Is that you? Don’t forget us little people when you get rich and famous.] Some closer friends earnestly advised me: [Are you really just after the ex-boss’s body?] [I only regret we never had team building activities before, otherwise I would’ve been the first to take you digging for wild vegetables!] Me: “…” Even a former colleague who was about to start at a new company told me that if I ever needed startup funding in the future, I could look for him for loans. Forget it friends, fend for yourselves. I’m already on my way to the peak of life! Lucas said he wanted to fulfill his husbandly duties, and started packing my luggage to move in as soon as we left the registry office. I politely declined: “It’s not appropriate, just call me when you need me.” No matter what, Lucas is still a tall handsome guy over 6 feet. I’m afraid I won’t be able to control myself. Lucas argued reasonably: “My dad is old and cunning, he could come to check on us at home anytime. If we’re exposed then, it’s all over.” Lucas brought up our collaboration, so I had no choice but to agree. Although his face showed no expression, I could still see a hint of success. Lucas moved all my things into the new house overnight. As he predicted, his dad came barging in as soon as we finished moving. A guy about Lucas’s age came along with him. He righteously accused Lucas: “Bro, how could you not tell us about such a big thing as getting married!?” “Am I no longer your most beloved little brother!?” Lucas rolled his eyes at him, lowered his head to fiddle with his phone, and gestured for me to check the message. I took out my phone and saw the message Lucas sent. I almost couldn’t hold back my laughter. [My brother Ethan, a nutcase.] [Wifey, what should we do.] Ethan, a 5’7″ guy, stood in front of 6’2″ Lucas, coquettishly complaining about Lucas. I quickly typed back: [Give him an eye roll, let him figure it out himself.] Lucas looked up at me, understanding dawning. He rolled his eyes expressionlessly, then looked at Ethan and said coldly: “Get lost.” Lucas’s brother didn’t expect this reaction from Lucas. He stood there stunned, looking pitifully at his dad. His dad couldn’t be bothered with him and looked at me saying: “So this is my daughter-in-law.” I nodded obediently, wanting to leave a good impression of being sweet and lovable with uncle. Lucas’s dad happily took out a red envelope and handed it to me: “This is a welcome gift for you.” I felt the red envelope, it was super thick. I happily opened the red envelope, ready to count how many bills were inside. Seeing me like this, Lucas’s dad smiled and said: “Don’t worry, I won’t shortchange you.” I looked up at him, grinning from ear to ear: “Thank you, Dad!” As I was feeling it, I suddenly sensed something was off. This texture, this size… I looked down and saw that the red envelope was stuffed with a stack of white paper! I looked pitifully at Lucas’s dad. The huge sum I thought I had just slipped through my fingers. Lucas’s dad looked at me, shock mixed with confusion on his face. Lucas had an expression of watching a good show. Lucas’s dad looked at Ethan and scolded angrily: “You did this?” “You put it in?” I asked Ethan incredulously. He looked wronged: “Yes, I put it in, but I don’t know why it turned into white paper.” “I clearly put in a stack of red bills!” As he spoke, he even wiped away fake tears. Me: “???” Watching Ethan pretend to be wronged in front of me, my fists gradually clenched. Trying to put me in my place, huh? Who can’t act? I turned to look at Lucas pitifully, my eyes glistening with unshed tears, ready to burst. Lucas quickly put his arm around my shoulders, playing along. I nestled in Lucas’s arms, pretending to wipe away non-existent tears, and choked out: “Little brother, if you don’t like your sister-in-law you don’t have to do this. I’ll leave.” Lucas’s dad hurriedly stopped me: “Daughter-in-law, don’t be angry. It’s all this kid’s fault.” “You little brat, I ought to teach you a good lesson!” Seeing that Lucas’s dad was really angry, Ethan had no choice but to compromise. He gritted his teeth and said: “Sister-in-law, I’m sorry. I was wrong.” Lucas looked at him and asked: “Don’t you have any compensation?” Ethan: “??” He hesitated for a moment, then took out a card from his pocket and handed it to me: “Here, this is a welcome gift for you.” “There’s $660,000 in it. Wishing you good fortune.” I took the card, almost laughing out loud. This idiot was pretending to be wronged just now, and now he’s giving me money. I signaled to Lucas with my eyes: [Your brother doesn’t seem too bright.] Lucas looked at me, holding back laughter as he replied with his eyes: [He’s always been like this, don’t take him seriously.] I nodded, then smiled at Ethan: “Well then, I won’t be polite. Thank you, little brother.” Ethan looked at me, nodding resentfully. Lucas’s dad looked at me and smiled: “Rachel, don’t worry. If this kid dares to bully you, just tell Dad. I’ll teach him a lesson for you.” I quickly nodded in agreement. Lucas’s dad turned to look at Lucas and scolded: “And you, now that Rachel has married you, you better treat her well.” “I know,” Lucas replied. Lucas went into the study with his dad. Ethan and I were left in the living room. I was happily thinking about what to do with the $660,000. Buy a house? Buy a car? Or save it to earn interest? Ethan looked at me with disdain: “Is it really worth it? It’s just a bit of money. I really don’t know what my brother sees in you.” Looks like Ethan has a brother complex. I moved closer to Ethan and whispered: “Let me tell you a secret, your brother has actually had a crush on me for a long time.” Ethan’s face was full of disbelief: “How could my brother possibly have a crush on you?” I immediately sat up straight and looked at him seriously: “Why couldn’t your brother have a crush on me?” “I’m fair-skinned, beautiful and have long legs. Your brother is handsome and capable. Us being together is simply a match made in heaven!” “Don’t underestimate your sister-in-law. The line of men chasing me could stretch from our front door all the way to France!” Seeing my serious expression, the corners of Ethan’s mouth twitched a few times. “Bro!” Ethan suddenly called out. I immediately turned to look towards the study door. No one was there. I looked back at Ethan with a serious face: “Ethan, are you messing with me?!” Ethan burst out laughing: “You really were lying!” I gritted my teeth, unwilling to admit defeat: “Who says I’m lying?” “Go ask Lucas yourself if he hasn’t had a crush on me for a long time.” As soon as the words left my mouth, I suddenly heard a cool voice from the doorway: “Who do I have a crush on?” I quickly turned to look. Lucas had appeared at the door at some point and was looking at me with an amused expression. I froze. Ethan took the opportunity to escape. Lucas walked towards me step by step, a smile playing on his lips. He stopped in front of me, slowly bent down to my eye level. “I have a crush on you?” I laughed awkwardly, trying to cover up my panic: “I was just joking with your brother, don’t take it seriously.” But Lucas didn’t let me off. He leaned in slightly, his shadow looming over me. I could smell the faint sandalwood scent on him, mixed with an indescribable masculine aura. Lucas looked at me, the corners of his mouth curling into a barely perceptible smile: “I do have a crush on you.” I thought he was joking and was about to say “Stop messing around”. But he suddenly spoke: “Do you remember that year in freshman year?” [Truncation point] I was stunned. Freshman year? What? I have no memory of it at all. Lucas looked at me and slowly said: “In freshman year, you participated in the campus singing competition and sang ‘Sunny Day’.” “But you went so off-key it was like you were singing to your grandma’s house. The whole school laughed at you.” “Only I sat in the audience, silently applauding for you.” Me: “…?” I looked at him in disbelief: “Are you sure that was me? Not Flora from the next class?” Lucas paused, then burst out laughing: “You’re right, I got it mixed up. It was Flora from the next class.” Me: “…” Seeing Lucas’s shoulders shaking as he tried to hold back laughter, I suddenly understood. This bastard was just messing with me! I took a deep breath. For the money! I’ll endure it! I asked: “So is your uncle willing to give you the company now?” Lucas looked at me, the corners of his mouth curling into a smile as he nodded. My eyes lit up and I immediately hugged his arm, jumping up and down excitedly: “That’s great boss, my sugar mama lifestyle is about to begin!” Lucas looked at me, raising an eyebrow: “What did you call me?” I grinned and let go of his arm. “Boss?” Lucas frowned in displeasure: “$10,000 per word.” Of course I knew what he wanted, but am I the kind of person who only cares about money? I am. “Hubby, hubby, hubby…” My phone notification sounded. [PayPal received $100,000.] This morning, I was woken up by the alarm clock before dawn. I sat up groggily, looked at the clock on the bedside table, and sighed. Last night before bed, Lucas said I needed to iron his clothes in the morning. Of course I didn’t want to do it, but he offered way too much. Money makes the world go round, let alone a workhorse like me. I got out of bed reluctantly and walked to Lucas’s closet. When I opened it, I was dumbfounded. A whole closet full of clothes – shirts, suits, jackets… all kinds of colors and styles. One? More like a million! I stared wide-eyed at the closet full of clothes, unable to hold back a wail: “Lucas you slave driver!” I resignedly picked up the iron and started ironing the clothes one by one. By the fifth piece, I was already drenched in sweat, my arms too sore to lift. I paused, looked at the iron in my hand, and couldn’t help complaining: “Lucas has so many clothes, why doesn’t he just open a clothing store!” As soon as the words left my mouth, a cool voice suddenly came from the doorway. “Good idea, we’ll open one tomorrow.” I was startled and looked up to see Lucas standing in the doorway, looking at me with an amused expression. I immediately laughed awkwardly: “Boss, I mean, hubby, I was just joking. Don’t take it seriously.” Distracted by talking, I didn’t notice the iron in my hand slip and burn my arm directly. “Ah!” I cried out in pain, quickly throwing down the iron and clutching my arm. Seeing this, Lucas hurriedly came over and grabbed my arm to check the injury. I grimaced in pain, looking at the red patch on my arm, and whined: “It hurts! It hurts! It hurts! It hurts!” Lucas frowned slightly, turned and went to the bathroom, came out with a towel, wet it and pressed it on my arm. “Cool it down first, I’ll go get some burn ointment.” Who knew Lucas was so good at taking care of people. I couldn’t help teasing: “This is a work injury, boss. You have to compensate me.” Lucas came back with the burn ointment, heard what I said and looked up at me with an amused expression: “Alright, how much do you want?”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296057”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #浪漫Romance #励志Inspiring #校园School #重生Reborn