Author: Momo Chan

I’ve always had a habit of competing with my sister Emily for everything since childhood. When we were little, I’d fight her for candy and dresses. As we grew up, I started competing for the company and even her boyfriend. But I rarely won against her, whether it was the company or her boyfriend. I was about to give up when Emily was suddenly diagnosed with a terminal illness – late-stage cancer. She called me to her hospital bed and said her only dying wish was for me to marry her husband? On the day of Emily’s funeral, my brother-in-law Jack looked terribly haggard. His waist seemed to have shrunk under his clothes. When the wind blew, his clothes looked empty inside. He appeared more fragile than his usual cool demeanor. I hobbled over to him on my crutches. Jack caressed Emily’s face for a long time, reluctant to let go. I had to remind him, “Jack, please try to accept it.” Jack stopped, staring at me blankly. The despair in his eyes was as profound as a wild animal on the brink of death: “Mia, Emily is gone…” I averted my gaze, unable to bear it, and looked at my sister in the coffin. In the dark coffin, Emily’s eyes were closed, her face still maintaining the hysteria from before her death. In the last stage of her life, she had become terribly thin, reminding me of a withered twig. Looking at her in the hospital, I could hardly recall her once vibrant appearance. Tears slid from the corners of my eyes. I wiped them away, then bent down and pulled the necklace from Emily’s chest. This was Emily’s most treasured possession in life – a sapphire necklace. Even in the dim coffin, it still sparkled brilliantly. “Mia…” Jack tried to stop me when he realized what I was doing. I dodged to the side, “I want to keep something to remember her by.” I clutched the necklace and looked at him longingly, “Can I? Jack, I want to keep it.” Emily and I looked very similar, especially our eyes. Our eyebrows were just like our father’s. I bet Jack would soften up. Even though this necklace was a gift from him to Emily, a symbol of their love. After just a brief moment of eye contact, Jack was already lost in my eyes. “Can I?” I asked again, my voice hoarse as I gripped the chain. Jack snapped back to reality, a flash of bitterness crossing his eyes. “Yes, Mia. You can keep it.” The soil gradually covered the coffin lid. Jack still stood rigidly, staring at the coffin being buried as if he had lost his soul. After saying goodbye to the mourners, I limped to his side. “Jack,” I called out to him. He didn’t respond. I continued, “When are we getting our marriage license?” 2 Hearing my words, Rachel, who was standing nearby, turned back in shock: “Mia, what nonsense are you talking about?” Rachel was Emily’s best friend, though I wasn’t very close to her. “It’s not nonsense,” I lowered my eyes, smiling both forcedly and sadly, “Rachel, you weren’t there at the time.” “Emily’s dying wish was for Jack to take care of me. She hoped we could be together.” “The sooner Jack and I get married, the more peaceful Emily will rest.” Rachel’s face changed: “How is that possible? This… How could Emily do such a thing?” I put my hand on Jack’s shoulder, patting it comfortingly: “Jack, don’t forget Emily’s last wish was for you to marry me.” “Mia…” Jack opened his mouth, glanced at the covered coffin, his eyes dimming, “Can we talk about this in a few days?” “Okay,” I smiled slightly. I’ve always been patient. “By the way, Rachel…” I turned to look at Rachel, catching the hatred and resentment in her eyes before she could hide it. “What is it?” She looked at me, trying to appear calm. I smiled gently: “Will you be my bridesmaid when the time comes?” “You were Emily’s best friend. If it weren’t for this sudden accident, I’m sure she would have wanted you to be the bridesmaid too.” 3 When I was hospitalized for a broken leg after a car accident, Emily came to visit me. I didn’t know she was already very ill at that time. I only remember her face was frighteningly pale. That deathly pallor almost showed through the powder on her face. But I was in so much pain from my leg that I couldn’t spare much attention to observe her. We chatted briefly. She said she and Jack had set their wedding date for October this year. She mentioned trying on wedding dresses alone for a whole day just last week. Immersed in happiness, she bragged or complained like a girlfriend about how busy the company was, and how Jack could only accompany her for less than an hour to choose a wedding dress before rushing back to work. That was the second to last time we sisters met. My leg hadn’t fully healed when death sentenced her. The last time we met, I hobbled on crutches to the door of her hospital room. She had torn off her oxygen mask, pulled out the IV in her hand, and was screaming hysterically at Jack like a madwoman: “I want you to swear you’ll marry her!” “Marry Mia!” “Marry her!” Jack stood not far away, looking confused and helpless. 4 It wasn’t until Emily saw me that she crawled out of bed and rushed towards me, her eyes bursting with brilliant light: “Mia, marry Jack.” “You must marry Jack!” Her condition at that time must have been a temporary improvement before death. Because after Jack and I swore we would get our marriage license, the light in her eyes dimmed. Soon after, the lawyer appointed by Emily came to us and informed us of her will: “Ms. Emily Smith has left all her assets, including company shares, to Mr. Jack Evans.” “However, Mr. Evans will only be eligible to inherit after obtaining a marriage license with Ms. Mia Smith…” That day, Jack was very depressed and dazed. When he occasionally became lucid, he looked at me with complex emotions. I suddenly realized I couldn’t understand Emily anymore. Why did she force Jack to marry me before her death? Did she know about my secret attempts to seduce Jack? 5 On the third day after Emily’s passing. The company couldn’t function without its leader, so Jack had already returned to work. I continued to recover in the hospital. During this time, I sent Jack more than ten messages about getting married, but he didn’t reply to any of them. However, I wasn’t very angry. I called my assistant to take me home. That home was once the marital house Emily had prepared. It was fully furnished and perfect for me to move in. Shortly after I arrived, Jack also came home from work. I was behind the wine cabinet, about to come out when I heard voices. “Jack, are you really going to marry Mia?” Rachel’s questioning voice made me pause as I was about to move my wheelchair. I only heard Jack say without hesitation: “This is Emily’s last wish.” “I don’t agree! You know I like you. When Emily was here, I didn’t compete with her, but now that she’s gone, why should I…” Rachel’s shout momentarily reminded me of Emily’s hysteria before she died. Jack calmly interrupted her: “Rachel, this is my decision. It has nothing to do with you.” “It’s late, Rachel. You should go home…” “Mmph!” Rachel grabbed Jack’s tie and pressed her lips against his, holding him tightly. I smirked at the wine cabinet beside me and let go of the wine bottle in my hand. Bang! The wine bottle shattered on the floor. Dark red liquid spread everywhere. I wheeled away from the wine cabinet towards the two who had hastily separated, smiling apologetically: “Sorry, Jack. My hand slipped. Did I interrupt something?” Seeing it was me, Jack’s eyes flashed with surprise: “Mia, you…” I raised my hand in a shushing gesture, smiling at Rachel: “Rachel, it’s late. You should go home. This is Emily’s marital home, so I won’t ask you to stay.” Rachel glared at me, leaving quickly without explanation or lingering. “Mia, why are you here?” Jack opened his mouth, seeming to want to explain something. I stopped in front of him, raising my hand to gesture, “Jack, kneel down.” 6 He hesitantly knelt down, and I took out a tissue and vigorously wiped the lipstick mark off his lips. Unable to control my strength, I made him frown slightly. I just looked at him with a faint smile: “Emily never told me you were such a player. She’s barely gone and you’re already hooking up with Rachel.” “No, Mia, I…” I stuffed the tissue with the lipstick mark into his mouth to stop him from talking, smiling gently: “We’re getting our marriage license tomorrow.” Hearing this, Jack fell silent, smiling bitterly with guilt, “Mia, you know I only see you as a sister.” I didn’t answer him, instead turning my wheelchair to briefly survey the living room. “Emily’s taste is similar to mine. I like it here.” “You probably want to live here too. How about we make this our marital home?” “Mia…” I impatiently raised my hand to signal him to be quiet, “Shh, I know.” “But this was Emily’s last wish. Why don’t we get the marriage license first without having a wedding, and then divorce after a few years?” I was lying to Jack. But he believed me. How naive. 7 Jack and I got our marriage license. In the red-background photo, Jack forced a smile, while only I had a radiant grin. After my leg fully healed, I returned to school. I’m pursuing a master’s degree in polymer chemistry. It takes a hundred days for injured tendons and bones to heal, and during my recovery period, many of my experiments were delayed. Exhausted after completing an experiment, I took off my lab coat. My senior happened to walk by and her gaze fell on my chest: “Mia, your new necklace is beautiful. Where did you buy it?” I turned and smiled, touching the sapphire on my chest: “You have good taste, senior. This was a gift from my husband.” My senior was surprised: “What? You’re married? When did this happen?” Before I could answer, my senior seemed to understand, her tone complex: “Was it because of that car accident? I was so scared my heart almost jumped out of my chest when I saw that car rushing towards you that day.” I smiled faintly and nodded: “Yes, after a brush with death, I woke up not wanting to leave any regrets for myself.” After leaving the lab, I walked towards the west gate. Jack had a lecture at S University this afternoon, and I asked him to wait for me at the west gate after he finished, so we could go home together. Emily, Jack, and I were all graduates of S University. Back then, Emily was also invited to give a speech at S University, and it was in the crowd that she fell in love with Jack at first sight. A Cullinan was quietly parked near the west gate. I walked over and opened the front passenger door. “Jack, sit in the back with me.” Jack seemed surprised by my request, politely declining, “Mia, I’d rather sit in the front…” My smile faded slightly as I interrupted him, “Jack, be good.” Jack lowered his eyes, the slight trembling of his eyelashes like raven feathers, making it hard for me to discern his emotions. After a few minutes of standoff, the car slowly moved forward, with Jack sitting silently to my left. The temperature in the car was just right. I took off my coat, and the light from outside occasionally flashed on the sapphire necklace on my chest, its reflection catching his attention. Jack’s gaze instantly froze, fixed on it, “You’re wearing it?” I lowered my eyes casually: “Yes, I am.” Smiling, I explained to him: “It makes me feel close to Emily.” Jack seemed to want to say something but held back. He pressed his lips tightly together, ultimately saying nothing. I shifted to a more comfortable position, looking at Jack against the light, unable to control the accusatory tone in my voice: “You’ve been meeting Rachel frequently lately?” I had bribed Jack’s assistant. He told me that Jack had met Rachel five times this week, twice at his own initiative. Jack’s eyes darkened slightly as he scrutinized me, “Are you spying on me?”

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The day before I was due to give birth, my home was invaded. By the time the police got me to the hospital’s operating room, I was too weak to open my eyes. Amidst the fog of pain and confusion, I heard the voice of my husband, Asher White. “Do you have confidence?” “Yes, but are you absolutely sure about your decision? We can still save the baby if we operate quickly.” “No, remove the uterus too. That way, Freya’s son will be the only heir to the White Corporation. As for Adeline… being Mrs. White is enough to guarantee her a smooth and worry-free life.” It was then I realized that everything had been a meticulously crafted deceit. The man I loved was the one wielding the knife. If that’s the case, I don’t need him anymore. As the anesthesia wore off, I slowly regained consciousness. I tried to open my eyes but heard Asher White’s voice again. “Dr. Wesley, how did Adeline’s surgery go?” “Mrs. White’s uterus has been completely removed. She just needs to rest now.” Dr. Wesley paused before cautiously asking, “Mr. White, are you sure you won’t regret this?” “I saw the little girl. Her thick eyebrows and big eyes looked just like yours.” “It’s a shame she couldn’t see the world before she left.” “There’s nothing to regret,” Asher said calmly. “She was an obstacle for Little Finn, and I had to remove her myself.” “As for Adeline…” Asher paused. “In a while, I’ll arrange for someone to bring Little Finn back from the orphanage. Then Adeline can be a mother.” “But Little Finn looks so much like you. Won’t Ms. Adeline…?” Dr. Wesley hesitated. “Don’t worry, all babies look alike. Adeline won’t notice. Besides, she trusts me. She’ll never suspect anything.” With that, Asher sat by my bed, tightly holding my hand. His touch was warm, but I felt cold down to my core. This was the man I had loved for ten years. He was willing to sacrifice my child’s life for his and Freya’s illegitimate son. He even stripped me of my chance to be a mother. Worse, he expected me to raise the child who was the reason for my daughter’s death. I was overwhelmed with grief, my heart aching painfully. If only I had been more careful and avoided that robber. Just then, Asher’s phone rang. “Is everything taken care of?” “Transfer him to the furthest prison, and as for his family…” “Pay them to leave City A.” “Do it cleanly, don’t let Adeline find out.” Hearing this, a chill ran through me, freezing my blood. I had wondered how a robber could get past the tight security of our neighborhood in City A. It turns out my husband orchestrated the whole robbery. He went to such lengths for Freya and his illegitimate child. I felt a sense of hopelessness. I couldn’t have avoided the robber, no matter what. If that’s the case, I’ll let Asher have his way. I slowly opened my eyes and looked at the man in front of me. “Adeline, when did you wake up?” Asher looked uneasy. “Just now,” I said, trying to control my grief, but tears still fell. “Adeline, what’s wrong? Is your wound hurting?” Asher looked worried and anxious. “I’ll get the doctor.” “Don’t…” I gently pulled Asher back. “I’m not in pain. I’m just surprised I’m still alive.” “Adeline, don’t say that!” Asher’s face hardened. “As long as I’m here, no one will hurt you again.” Hearing this, my heart ached with bitterness. All the harm was brought by Asher. There’s no future for us. Asher didn’t notice my change. He picked up a damp cotton swab and gently wiped my dry lips. “Adeline, you can’t drink water yet after the surgery. Please bear with it.” I nodded, feeling even more sorrowful. Why? If he never loved me, why pretend to be so caring? Afterward, Asher tucked me in and said, “Adeline, there’s something I need to tell you.” “Our child is gone, and your injuries are too severe. You won’t be able to…” Asher hesitated. Seeing his troubled expression, my heart stung. Asher was truly an actor. Fine. Let me end this myself. Just as I was about to speak, Asher continued, “Adeline, the White Family needs an heir.” “Let’s adopt a child.”

Hearing this, I was stunned. I thought Asher would continue to lie to me, but he straightforwardly suggested adopting a child, using the excuse of needing an heir. Asher was truly impatient. Suppressing my sorrow, I nodded. “Okay.” Asher was overjoyed. “I’ll have someone look for a suitable child right away!” Then, realizing his behavior was inappropriate, Asher looked at me awkwardly. “Honey, don’t be mad.” “I was just… worried you’d be heartbroken over losing our child, so I wanted to find a child to ease your pain.” “Don’t worry, I’ll never have another woman in my life. Once we find a child, we’ll treat him like our own son.” Hearing this, my heart ached with bitterness again. My child was killed by the robber Asher sent. And my future hopes of having a child were destroyed. Asher still wanted me to raise his and Freya’s child. He was truly cruel. Overwhelmed with grief and anger, I clenched the bedsheets tightly, my fingertips turning white. “Honey, what’s wrong? Is your wound still hurting?” Asher looked concerned. I shook my head. Just then, a video call came through. Asher looked uneasy. “Honey, there’s something at work I need to handle. Rest well.” With that, Asher hurried out of the room. Watching his back, I was filled with immense hatred. I picked up the tablet he left behind, unlocked the screen, and opened SnapChat logged in on both his phone and tablet. Freya’s chat window appeared before me. [The current video is being answered on another device.] Seeing this short line, I gave a bitter smile. Sure enough, it was Freya calling him. With my bandaged hand, I scrolled through their chat history. “Honey, the baby kicked me today.” “Honey, the doctor said our son is healthy.” “Honey, the baby learned to smile today.” “Honey, how do you plan to bring the baby to the White Family?” … Most of the time, it was Freya talking to herself and sending pictures of the child. Asher rarely replied, but every night there was a video call lasting four to five hours. No wonder he was furious when I entered the study to bring him tea. “Why are you in here?” “This room is full of computers and other electronic devices. The radiation could harm our child!” “You’re a mom now. Can’t you think things through?” Now I realize Asher wasn’t worried about me and my child. He didn’t want me to interrupt his nightly sweet video calls with Freya. I felt guilty for a long time, thinking I was stupid. I coldly looked at the chat history on the screen, feeling like I had swallowed a bitter pill. Just then, Asher’s mother sent a message. “Asher, today Freya and I took Little Finn for a check-up. He’s very healthy.” “Did you tell that fool Adeline? When will Little Finn officially get a place in the White Family?” I was stunned, feeling as if all the blood in my body had frozen. Even my mother-in-law knew about this! My heart ached to the extreme. After getting married, I quit my beloved job to take care of this family because my mother-in-law said she didn’t like housekeepers. I treated her like my own mother, yet she helped Asher deceive me. I was suddenly filled with disappointment. Maybe this family never truly welcomed me. I decided to leave. I took out my phone and booked a flight to Maple Country for a week later.

On the day I was discharged, Asher said he was busy with work and told me to go straight to my mother-in-law’s house. However, when I got home, the living room was empty. I went up the stairs to the second floor. Passing the first room, I heard the faint cries of a baby. After hesitating for a few seconds, I pushed open the door. A very cute baby was lying in the crib. Seeing me, he stopped crying, his big eyes full of curiosity. “Ahh…” The little one babbled something I couldn’t understand. If my child had been born smoothly, they might have been like this too! 3 The day I was discharged from the hospital, Asher White told me he had some business at the company and asked me to go directly to my mother-in-law’s house. However, when I arrived, the living room was empty. I made my way up the stairs to the second floor. As I passed the first room, I heard the faint cries of a baby. After a moment of hesitation, I pushed the door open. Inside the crib was an incredibly cute baby. Seeing me, he stopped crying and looked at me with wide, curious eyes. “Goo goo ga ga…” The little one was babbling something. If my child had been born without complications, he would be like this now! But… his own father denied him the chance to see this world. The thought of it brought tears streaming down my face, and my heart ached unbearably. Just then, I heard soft moans coming from the next room. “Asher, you… you’re amazing!” “Asher, am I better than Adeline?” “Oh… Asher, you’re so naughty!” … I froze in place! So, Asher’s so-called business at the company was actually fooling around here with Freya! My face turned pale, and I felt as if the blood in my veins had frozen. It was as if countless arrows had pierced through me, and the pain was excruciating. What an irony! Just a few days ago, they killed my child with their own hands, took away my ability to have children, and now they brazenly brought the mistress into the house? I crouched down, buried my head in my arms, and cried in agony! At that moment, a shadow rushed into the room and hit me hard on the head with a broom! “You bring bad luck!” “What are you doing here alone?” “Are you trying to harm my grandson?” The figure shouted while beating me mercilessly. It wasn’t until she was exhausted that she stopped. I looked up and saw it was my mother-in-law. “Mom…” I tried to hold back the grief in my heart and the burning pain in my body, attempting to explain, but my mother-in-law cut me off! “Don’t call me Mom!” “You lost my eldest grandson! And you still have the nerve to come back!” Hearing this, a sharp pain pierced my heart! She knew the whole truth but blamed everything on me. For the first time, I felt my mother-in-law was so hypocritical, hypocritical to the point of being a stranger. They conspired to stage a play to kill my child! I lost my ability to bear children, and yet they still humiliate me like this! I couldn’t help but clench my fists, my fingertips turning white from the pressure. At this moment, Freya and Asher from the next room also heard the commotion. They came over. “Mom, what’s going on?” Asher looked at me, then at his mother, frowning. There were still traces of their recent intimacy on his neck. It was extremely galling to me. “Son, look at this wretched woman you married. She just tried to harm Little Finn when no one was around!” “I didn’t!” I quickly said. “Adeline, how could you be so cruel? Little Finn is just a baby!” Freya said as she rushed to the crib, picking up the child and checking him carefully! “Adeline, you can’t just kill Little Finn because your own child didn’t survive!” “Little Finn’s neck is all red from your grip!” “You’re lying, I didn’t touch him!” I rushed forward to see the child in Freya’s arms. However, Asher grabbed me! “Adeline, you actually laid hands on a baby. I really regret marrying you!” “You deserve to be without children for the rest of your life!” “Today, I’ll strangle you, you wicked woman!” Asher said, stepping forward to choke me, his eyes filled with malice! A wave of suffocation instantly overwhelmed me. I wanted to plead for mercy but couldn’t get a single word out! As I was about to lose consciousness, I used the last of my strength to grab a vase nearby and smashed it hard on Asher’s head!

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I fell and started bleeding profusely after shielding Lucas from a flying teacup, threatening my pregnancy. As the ambulance arrived, Lucas’s first love called, asking him to bring her some sanitary pads. Despite the paramedics’ objections, he insisted on leaving. “I’m not a doctor. It’s useless for me to stay here. Don’t be so dramatic,” he said coldly. “I’ll be back after I deliver these to Lily.” I fell and started bleeding after shielding Lucas Gray from a flying teacup. As the ambulance arrived, Lucas’s first love called, asking him to bring her some sanitary pads. Despite the paramedics’ objections, he insisted on leaving. “I’m not a doctor. It’s useless for me to stay here. Don’t be so dramatic,” he said coldly. “I’ll be back after I deliver these to Lily.” With those words, Lucas hurried across the street and hailed a taxi. I curled up in pain on the stretcher as the paramedics lifted me into the ambulance. Sharp pain spread through my abdomen, as if invisible hands were violently twisting my insides. I was drenched in cold sweat, unable to utter a word. The paramedics’ angry comments reached my ears. “What kind of person is he? His wife is in this condition, and he just runs off? What if we need a signature for surgery?” “Never seen anyone refuse to accompany their family member after calling an ambulance. What could be more important than your loved one’s life?” “A dog would be more loyal than that.” My own husband, willing to abandon his critically ill wife to buy sanitary pads for his first love. How ridiculous is that? Tears slid down my cheeks as I watched Lucas’s retreating figure through blurry vision. Then, I lost consciousness.

When I regained consciousness, four hours had passed. Lucas still hadn’t shown up. The hospital room was eerily quiet. I instinctively tried to sit up, but the sharp pain forced me back down. A nurse entered with an IV drip and quickly stopped me. “You just had a miscarriage surgery. Don’t move.” I froze, tears streaming down my face, blurring my vision. So, before I even had a chance to feel its presence, that little life had silently slipped away. Did the baby sense that its father didn’t care about it, and decide not to come into this world? The nurse tried to comfort me, “You’re still young. You can have children in the future.” I forced a smile, staring at the fluorescent light on the ceiling for a long time until my eyes hurt. Then I turned and picked up my phone from the bedside table. There were only work messages on it. Nothing else. Lucas had said he’d come back after delivering the sanitary pads to his first love. But he hadn’t appeared even after the surgery was over. A hint of mockery crossed my pale face. In his eyes, buying sanitary pads for his first love was more important than my life.

My relationship with Lucas was an accident. Years ago, my father, for the sake of a business deal, deliberately drugged me and sent me to the bed of a 50-year-old coal tycoon. After escaping with all my strength, I accidentally stumbled into Lucas’s room, where we ended up having sex. This scene was caught by the media and became trending news. My parents, of course, wouldn’t miss this opportunity to climb the social ladder. My father deliberately used the pressure from public opinion, and in the end, Lucas and I were forced to get married. Although he was like those pampered rich boys, arrogant and unruly, I thought this marriage was just a forced arrangement, maintaining only appearances, and would eventually end in divorce. When did things start to change? Perhaps it was the first time he stood up for me against his parents, shielding me like a protective lion. “She’s the wife of the Gray family. If you want to give her a hard time, you’ll have to go through me first,” he had said coldly. He would cancel all his appointments on my birthday to personally bake me a cake. He once rented hundreds of drones to form my name in the sky, lighting up fireworks across the entire city for a whole night. He took me on a motorcycle trip around the entire Northwest. Once, when I mentioned craving chestnuts, he made a special hour-long detour just to buy some for me. Although our relationship didn’t have a good start, it didn’t prevent us from enjoying a happy married life afterward. I thought our relationship would continue like this. But when did things change? I guess it was the day his childhood sweetheart returned from America after her divorce. That day, we had planned to attend a concert together. He stood me up. I waited stupidly in the cold wind for three hours until the concert ended, but he never showed up. It was the first time he had broken a promise since we got married. Later, I found out from online photos that he had gone to pick up his first love. After that, his first love would always “coincidentally” appear wherever we went – friend gatherings, movie nights, and so on. At first, I would question him, but he would always laugh it off carelessly, saying, “We’re just friends.” Eventually, I got used to it, even became numb to it. I even started counting down the days of our marriage.

Meanwhile, Lily posted on her social media: “During that special time of the month, I’m so glad you’re always here for me. Touched, heart emoji.” The picture showed a pack of sanitary pads and a man’s profile. The comments section was flooded: “Ooh, are you two… back together?” “Lucas still loves you after all.” In their circle of friends, Lily and Lucas were like Cinderella and Prince Charming. Although Lily was the daughter of his family’s former housekeeper, she had managed to climb the social ladder using her connection with Lucas. Everyone in their circle supported their relationship. However, as the Gray family was a top-tier company in the country, they would never allow their pride and joy to marry a housekeeper’s daughter. For them, girls from such backgrounds were fine for casual dating, but could never be welcomed into the Gray family. To prove herself, Lily had hastily married a wealthy suitor and moved abroad. It wasn’t until a month ago that she returned to the country after her divorce. I stared at that post for a long time. As I was about to exit, I accidentally liked it. The next second, Lucas called. Before I could speak, Lily’s voice came through the speaker. “Hey, sis! Are you okay now? I just found out that Lucas left you alone to buy me pads. That’s terrible! I’ve already scolded him for it. How could he treat you like that? I’m apologizing on his behalf.” Her words held no trace of sincerity; they sounded more like bragging. She then complained to Lucas, “It’s all your fault. How could you abandon her when she was in such danger? If anything had happened to her, I wouldn’t have forgiven you.” Lucas lazily replied, “The doctors were already there. I couldn’t have done much anyway. Besides, you were more urgent, weren’t you?”

Lily feigned embarrassment, “What are you saying? Don’t make your wife misunderstand.” Her tone couldn’t hide her smugness. I calmly spoke up, “Are you two done talking?” Lily continued in her coy voice, “Sis, Lucas and I are just friends. Please don’t misunderstand.” Before she could finish, Lucas’s lazy voice interrupted, “Why are you explaining? My wife isn’t that petty.” “Honey, you sound fine. I won’t come over tonight. Take care of yourself, and I’ll visit you in the morning, okay?” He made a kissing sound into the phone, “Love you!” The line went dead. I held the phone, frozen for a moment, before putting it down. I couldn’t help but laugh, but as I laughed, tears involuntarily streamed down my face. Tonight was supposed to be the usual Gray family dinner. During the meal, someone intentionally mentioned the recent trending photos of Lucas and Lily looking intimate. Mr. Gray warned him to be careful and not mess around outside. Lucas, seemingly deliberately defiant, raised an eyebrow and said nonchalantly, “Even if I wanted to divorce and marry her now, do you think you could stop me? You think I’m still the same Lucas you can push around?” Indeed, the Gray family was now entirely under Lucas’s control, and he had the power to protect whoever he wanted. His provocative attitude angered Mr. Gray, who threw his teacup at him in a fit of rage. As the cup was about to hit his face, I instinctively shielded him. The scalding tea poured down my back. Seeing this, Mr. Gray stormed off angrily. Lucas quickly pulled me towards him, trying to lift my clothes to examine the wound. I instinctively stepped back but tripped over a chair and fell to the ground. Intense pain suddenly overwhelmed me. He urgently called for an ambulance. Seeing his anxious gaze, I thought the old him had returned. I remembered when I accidentally cut my finger while cooking, and he anxiously dragged me to the hospital. The doctor had joked that if we’d arrived any later, the wound would have already healed. I instinctively gripped his arm tightly, unable to hold back a painful groan, “It hurts so much…” He kept comforting me, saying the ambulance would arrive soon, telling me not to be afraid. But unexpectedly, just as the ambulance arrived, he received a call from Lily and left without hesitation.

It wasn’t until the next morning that Lucas finally showed up. He brought my favorite dumplings, acting as if nothing had happened, and offered them to me. I didn’t take them, my eyes unconsciously glancing at the clock on the wall. It was already 10 AM. He followed my gaze and feigned sudden realization, “Lily wasn’t feeling well and couldn’t go out, so I delivered to her first. That’s why I’m late.” “Don’t worry, nothing happened between us.” He leaned closer with a mischievous smile, reaching out to stroke my hair. But the pungent jasmine perfume emanating from him made me want to vomit. I frowned and instinctively leaned away. Seeing this, his expression froze, and he opened his mouth as if to say something. I looked straight at him and said flatly, “Let’s get a divorce, Lucas.” His smile gradually faded, his face instantly darkening. His tone was filled with disbelief and incomprehension. “Just because I went to deliver sanitary pads to Lily? You want a divorce over such a small thing?” “You know I tricked her into the water back then, which caused her painful periods. Is it wrong for me to take care of her?” “She was worried you’d be upset about it, and she couldn’t sleep all night because of it.” I had heard before that when Lucas was young, he loved to play pranks. When he first met Lily, he tricked her into getting into the water, saying there was money in it. But it happened to be during her period, and ever since then, she experienced painful menstruation. In his view, I was just upset because he had abandoned me yesterday. And me? If I hadn’t shielded him from that teacup yesterday, I wouldn’t have miscarried and ended up in the hospital. As my husband, he didn’t even ask about my condition. Lucas looked at me with disappointment, as if I was being unreasonable. But I didn’t care anymore.

Lucas didn’t agree to the divorce and stormed off angrily. In his view, I was just throwing a tantrum, deliberately acting out. After all, without his protection, where could I find someone better? After that day, Lucas never contacted me again. He had always been the golden boy, used to being adored. He was waiting for me to apologize first. But how could that be possible?

After being discharged from the hospital, I contacted a lawyer to draft divorce papers. Then I rushed home to pack my luggage for a business trip. In my opinion, no matter how rich others are, it’s better to have your own money and capabilities. As I was going downstairs, Lucas’s mother was sitting in the living room, looking displeased at my suitcase. “Going on another business trip?” The company I managed required frequent travel, with about a third of each month spent away. I gave a light “Mm” in response. Hearing this, she slammed the magazine she was holding onto the coffee table and scolded, “You’re a woman, always busy with work and never at home. Married for years and still no children?” “A woman should stay at home, support her husband, and raise children. Why are you competing with men for business?” Lucas’s mother had always been dissatisfied with me. In her view, since I married into the Gray family, I should have quit my job and stayed at home to prepare for pregnancy and raise children. She then commanded, “Quit your job immediately. If I don’t have a grandchild within a year, you two should get divorced.” In the past, out of respect for Lucas, I rarely talked back. I always tried to tolerate her unreasonable demands. But now, I didn’t want to serve anymore. I smiled and said, “No need to wait. We can divorce anytime. I’ll step aside.” Her face changed, and she glared at me angrily, about to say something. I continued, “Actually, there was a child, but unfortunately, you weren’t destined to meet. I miscarried two days ago.” As soon as I finished speaking, there was a commotion at the door. Lucas stood there, his eyes full of disbelief. “What did you say?” He strode over and gripped my hands tightly. “Why didn’t you tell me you were pregnant?” If he had paid even a little attention to me, he would have known why I was hospitalized. I forcefully pulled my hands from his grip, a hint of mockery flashing in my eyes as I sneered, “Isn’t all this because of you?”

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I’m known as Jack Wilson’s number one doormat. Jack, the most popular guy in school and a notorious playboy, only keeps me around because I look somewhat like his dream girl, Emma Frost. He chased after Emma for two years, but she always looked down on him and eventually went abroad. Now, Jack uses every opportunity to humiliate me, his substitute. It’s his way of getting revenge on Emma, taking out his frustrations on me. Despite this treatment, I still take care of him and comply with his every whim. He once asked me, “Why are you so good to me? What are you after?” I couldn’t help but laugh. What could I possibly want from him? “I want your heart, of course!” I replied. “My heart? Now that’s asking for too much!” he scoffed. What Jack doesn’t know is that I’m after his actual heart – his physical organ – not his affection for me. I pushed open the door to the bar’s private room, carrying a birthday cake. All eyes turned to me as the noise inside suddenly died down. Jack, with his arm around a girl in a mini skirt, spoke impatiently, “What took you so long to buy a cake? Everyone’s been waiting to celebrate Chloe’s birthday.” I set the cake down on the table and smoothed my wind-tousled hair. “There was some traffic,” I explained. My response was met with a round of mockery from the others. “Jack, man, you’ve got her so well-trained!” “I need to learn your secrets, bro!” Ever since I transferred to Southern University in my junior year to be close to Jack, his friends have called me his doormat. They say I changed schools just for him. They’re right about that part… They also say Jack only agreed to be with me because I look somewhat like Emma Frost. Emma was his dream girl, the one he chased for two years without success before she went abroad. Jack opened the cake box and lit the candles. He pulled Chloe close and told her to make a wish. “I wish Jack would take me to see the ocean,” Chloe said dreamily. Someone teased, “Saying it out loud means it won’t come true!” Chloe turned to Jack with her big, beautiful eyes. “Jack, do you think my wish will come true?” Jack kissed her cheek and glanced at me from the corner of his eye. “Of course it will. We’ll go this Saturday.” He added with a mischievous grin, “We’ll camp on the beach overnight. I’ll bring a tent to set up on the sand.” Chloe shyly kissed Jack in return. Jack then turned to me, sitting in the corner. “Sophia, make sure you buy a tent before Saturday.” “Okay,” I replied. “And get a thick, soft mat too. Chloe’s delicate skin won’t be able to handle lying directly on the ground.” “Alright,” I agreed. The group erupted in laughter. “Now that’s a dedicated doormat! She’ll agree to anything!” “Jack, you’ve got some serious skills!” Chloe nestled into Jack’s arms, embarrassed. I stared at the spot over Jack’s heart. He shouldn’t let Chloe lean there. That’s mine… A sharp pain shot through my chest. I closed my eyes, fighting back tears. The reason I stay by Jack’s side is because I like being close to his chest, listening to his strong heartbeat. It’s a soothing remedy for my pain, a comfort during sleepless nights of agony. After they finished singing, the group decided to go for hot pot. I followed behind Jack. When I saw Chloe pour Jack a glass of beer, I quickly took it away. “The doctor said you can’t drink alcohol.” Jack looked up at me, sitting across from him. “If I can’t drink it, then you drink it!” The others chimed in, “Yeah, Jack said so. Drink up!” I didn’t want to drink, but seeing Jack’s displeased expression, I picked up the glass and downed it in one go. I never upset him, not even the slightest bit. The doctor had said his emotions shouldn’t fluctuate too much. Seeing him reach for the spicy broth, I reminded him, “You also can’t eat spicy or stimulating food.” Someone teased, “Jack, she’s already acting like a nagging wife before you’re even married!” Jack raised an eyebrow. “Who said I was going to eat it? Our Chloe loves spicy food.” He picked up a slice of lamb and fed it to Chloe. The group laughed again. “Jack likes hot and sexy girls like Chloe. Much better than the plain and boring type!” The speaker glanced at me as he said this. “Jack’s got great taste, that’s for sure!” …

On Saturday, Zoe and I waited outside the boys’ dormitory with two tents, ready for Jack. Zoe is my roommate and my best friend at Southern University. When I first met her, I felt drawn to her. There was something familiar about her, as if we’d met before. Jack came out of the dorm building with his arm around a petite figure whose face was hidden by a baseball cap. As they got closer, I realized it was a girl. She was even wearing Jack’s baseball jacket. Seeing them, Zoe got angry on my behalf. She confronted Jack, “Who is she? You’re supposed to be taking Sophia to the beach, and now you’re bringing another girl? And she’s so shameless, going into the boys’ dorm!” I regretted not telling Zoe earlier that Jack was bringing Chloe. But this wasn’t even Chloe. The girl glanced at Zoe and snuggled closer to Jack. In a coy voice, she said, “Jack, she’s so mean. I’m scared.” Jack patted her head and snapped back at Zoe, “If Sophia doesn’t mind, why should you care? You’re not even involved. Aren’t you just tagging along uninvited?” I stepped in front of Zoe. “I insisted that Zoe come. You can treat me however you want, but don’t talk to Zoe like that!” Seeing that I was genuinely upset, Jack’s tone softened slightly. “She started it. But fine, I’ll be the bigger person and let it go.” Zoe tried to argue further, but I quickly pulled her away. “Come on, Zoe, let’s go. Just think of it as accompanying me to the beach. Don’t let this ruin your mood.” As we walked away, Zoe said, “I can’t stand to see you treated like this! What’s so great about that two-timing jerk that you have to put up with this?” I replied softly, “He may not be good, but his heart is good…” “Huh?” Zoe looked confused, but I didn’t explain further. Southern University isn’t far from the beach, so we took a taxi. By early evening, the beach was crowded with campers, mostly college students out for fun. I had just finished setting up the two tents when I overheard two girls talking nearby. “Did you hear about that incredibly handsome guy from your school who got into a car accident recently?” “Yeah, he was a genius too, top of his class in every subject!” “Such a tragedy… What was his name again?” “Ethan Sky…” When I heard that name, my blood ran cold. My heart felt like it was being torn apart, and I couldn’t breathe. I watched the sun slowly disappear below the horizon, leaving behind a darkening sky. Just like my world without him – pitch black. I had lost him forever.

I crouched down, hugging my knees, as tears soaked the sand beneath me. I remembered another evening like this when he had built a sandcastle on the beach. He had been so secretive, not letting me see it until it was finished. He had covered my eyes with his hands and led me to the castle. With a dramatic flair, he had announced, “Ta-da! Miss Thompson, behold your future home! One day, I’ll buy a house just like this castle and bring my princess home…” But later, the sea washed away the castle, and he left me too… Zoe returned with firewood and was startled to see me in such a state. She quickly hugged me. “Sophia, what’s wrong? Did those two jerks upset you?” “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind!” she declared, ready to confront Jack and his new girl, who were making out in the distance. I held her back. “No, Zoe, it’s not because of them. I’m not feeling well. Can we go back to school?” We got into a taxi back to campus. Zoe sat with me in the back seat. Knowing I didn’t want to talk about it, she just held me close, gently rubbing my back. It reminded me of how Ethan used to comfort me whenever I was sad… I felt the warmth from her, and surprisingly, the pain in my heart began to ease. Back at our dorm, Zoe gave me her large panda plushie to sleep with, saying it would help me sleep. She meant well, so I couldn’t refuse. I lay in bed, hugging the panda and staring at the ceiling. I thought it would be another sleepless night, like so many before when I longed for Ethan. But somehow, I eventually fell into a deep sleep.

That night, I had a long dream. I dreamed of the sweet memories from when we first met. When I was in kindergarten, new neighbors moved in next door. They had a son a year younger than me. From the day they arrived, I had a little shadow with a runny nose following me around. Every day when I went to kindergarten, he wanted to come too, but the teachers wouldn’t let him in. So he begged his mom to let him go to kindergarten as well. I remember when I first started kindergarten, I cried my heart out every day, missing my mom terribly. But Ethan, from the day he started, never cried. He just happily followed me around. Because he was younger, the teachers gave him special treatment. Whenever he said he wanted to find his “big sister,” they would let him sit next to me. Even though he was in the toddler class, he learned everything we did in the junior class, and he learned it faster than me. He even helped me with the crafts the teacher assigned, so I could finish them. During games, while others paired up one-on-one, we were always a team of two against one… This went on, with him skipping grades to be with me in kindergarten. When I graduated and was about to start elementary school, he still had one more year of kindergarten left. Every day when he went to kindergarten then, he cried his heart out, worrying his mom to no end. His classmates in the senior kindergarten class teased him: “How come you’re still not used to it after three years? We stopped crying in our first year!” Ethan, sniffling, replied, “I got used to having my sister with me for three years in kindergarten. Now I’m all alone, that’s why I’m sad.” Finally, Ethan started elementary school, but this time the teachers wouldn’t let him sit with me in the second-grade classroom. So every break, he’d run to my classroom, bringing me snacks, stickers that little girls liked, and all sorts of little trinkets. He spent all his pocket money on me. My classmates all thought he was my real brother and called him the “sister-doting maniac.” Later, when I started middle school, Ethan’s family had to move away due to his father’s job transfer.

The night before they left, Ethan knocked on my window with a bamboo pole from his family’s small balcony. Our balconies were right next to each other, close enough that we could talk from them. Our families got along well too. My dad would grill kebabs on the balcony and pass some to Ethan. Ethan’s dad would brew tea on a small stove on their balcony and offer a cup to my dad. After Ethan called me out, he handed me a letter. His ears were red as he said, “Wait until I’m gone tomorrow to open it.” I asked why I had to wait until he left to read it. He stammered for a while but couldn’t give me an answer. Seeing he wasn’t saying anything, I thought the conversation was over. I was about to go back inside to continue reading my romance novel. I had just gotten to the part where the heroine runs away pregnant, and I was curious if the clueless hero would be able to find her. As I turned to leave, Ethan called out loudly, “Sophia, wait for me. I’ll definitely come back for you.” I replied, “Okay, don’t come empty-handed.” It was meant as a joke, but he took it seriously. When we met again, he really didn’t come empty-handed. That was on the first day of our freshman year in college. The young man stood under a phoenix tree, holding a large box in both hands. He wore a clean white shirt and jeans. The sunlight filtering through the leaves cast a glow on him. When he saw me approach, his smile was brighter than the sunshine. When Ethan’s family left, I was actually very sad, but I didn’t show it. I didn’t want to make the atmosphere too gloomy, and it wasn’t like we’d never see each other again. I didn’t go down to see them off, but instead watched from the balcony as their car drove further and further away. It felt like a piece of my heart was missing… Ah, I would never again taste Ethan’s mom’s sweet and sour pork ribs, meatballs, fish, or pork loin… Ethan’s mom had tried to teach my mom, but with my mom’s cooking skills, she nearly burned down the kitchen. I went back to my room and opened Ethan’s letter. After reading it, I was angry! I had thought of him as a little brother, but he didn’t see me as a sister. He even wrote about wanting to rightfully call my mom “Mom” in the future! At that time, I was obsessed with romance novels. I imagined men who could sweep me off my feet and pin me against a wall, saying, “Woman, you can’t escape me.” When I thought of Ethan, who was even younger than me, I wondered if his skinny arms could even lift me. In novels, the men were always older, experienced guys falling for younger women. I was still waiting for my mature man to come along. Back then, I never would have imagined that this scrawny boy, who dreamed of calling my mom “Mom,” would one day sacrifice his life to protect me. His departure left me with a pain that cut to the bone. I hated that truck driver who had fallen asleep at the wheel! In my mind, I was back to that day…

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Three years ago, I accidentally witnessed my husband’s scandalous affair with our adopted daughter, who has dwarfism. As a result, Gabriel completely rejected me. Rose, our adopted daughter with dwarfism, locked me in the cellar, chaining me through my shoulder blades until I was nothing but skin and bones. Three years later, Rose fell seriously ill, and Gabriel finally remembered me. He brought a large group of people to search for me, but all traces led to the cellar in our own house. He thought I was still throwing a tantrum. “If you’re willing to personally perform the surgery on Rose, I can forgive you for leaving without a word three years ago,” he said. My voice was hoarse, and when I opened my mouth wide, I could only make a “heh heh” sound. Finally, Gabriel opened the cellar door himself. Only to find me, starved to death. Three years ago, I should have been at work, but I returned home to retrieve an important document I had accidentally left behind. That’s when I discovered my husband’s affair with our adopted daughter with dwarfism. In our mansion, all the servants had been sent away. Our marital bed was creaking rhythmically. Rose, our adopted daughter with dwarfism, was wearing my sexy nightgown, straddling my husband’s lap. “If she knew that you only adopted me to make it easier to sleep with me, she’d probably die of anger.” “Well, she’s so stupid she can’t even tell you have dwarfism,” Gabriel said, looking satisfied as he held Rose. “We absolutely can’t let her find out. I told her I’d love only her for life. If she wasn’t on her period lately, it wouldn’t be your turn, you little minx.” I trembled all over, my eyes instantly turning red. Gabriel and I had been in love for years. Everyone said Gabriel was a good man. When he pursued me, he said, “I want to win your heart and grow old with you.” After we married, he even dismissed all the female servants in the house, even hiring a male housekeeper. All to prove his undying love for me. Everyone said he loved me more than his own life. But only I knew that Gabriel had one exception: Rose. Rose was the adopted daughter Gabriel had insisted on taking in. His exact words were: “Rose was entrusted to me by my war buddy. I can’t abandon her.” I never imagined he would personally “take care” of her in bed. Whenever it came to matters concerning Rose, Gabriel seemed to lose all reason. On our first wedding anniversary, I had carefully prepared a special celebration. But because Rose had sprained her ankle, he left me waiting and personally took her to the hospital instead. Once, when things were getting hot and heavy between Gabriel and me in bed, Rose called, crying that she was afraid of thunder. Gabriel pulled up his pants and went to comfort her. There were many such incidents, but I never thought much of it. I never imagined they had been having an affair all along, and I had been kept in the dark for so long until this accidental discovery. It turns out Rose has a childlike appearance due to her dwarfism. I had been fooled so badly. I thought I would burst in angrily and confront them. But I didn’t. I just stiffly put down the file folder and waited for the two inside to finish. I thought Gabriel would look guilty and ashamed after being discovered, but he was surprisingly calm. “Since you’ve found out, you should treat Rose even better from now on. She’s not really your adopted daughter, so don’t force her to call you mom anymore. If you two can get along harmoniously, I won’t have to go to the trouble of hiding it anymore.” Gabriel looked at me as if everything he had done was justified, as if I had forced him into this. I trembled with anger, almost on the verge of collapse. I pointed at the two of them and said, “How could you do this to me?” Since marrying Gabriel, I had done everything to please him. I even often handled his family business affairs for him, giving him more free time. Out of pity for Rose’s tragic past, I made her nutritious soups every day. But these two had been doing such outrageous things behind my back. “Why are you acting like someone from the old society? Can’t you handle even this much?” “Let’s talk when you’ve calmed down. I’m going on a business trip for a few days.” “I’m afraid you might hurt Rose while I’m gone, so I’ve transferred the house’s security and management rights to her,” Gabriel said with a look of disgust, then put on his coat and left. Only Rose and I were left in the room. She pitifully held a bowl of chicken soup, looking helpless. But I only felt disgust and knocked the bowl out of her hand. “Rose, you make me sick. Is tricking me so much fun?” If I had known earlier that Rose wasn’t really a child, but just a person with dwarfism, I would never have agreed to my husband’s adoption plan. But as I turned away, a flash of malice and cruelty crossed Rose’s face. That night, while I was sound asleep, she snuck into my room and smashed a vase against the back of my head. The once gentle and timid adopted daughter with dwarfism suddenly turned into a powerful brute. With a hideous expression, she grabbed my hair and inhumanly dragged me into the cellar. “You should have just gone along with it. Mia, you’re nothing but an orphan. How dare you give me attitude?” “You shouldn’t have discovered our dirty secret. To keep you from telling anyone, and to make him love me more, I have no choice but to do this to you.” Rose threaded an iron chain as thick as a finger through my shoulder blades, locking me in the cellar. I screamed shrilly, but no one heard me. A feeling of utter despair washed over me. When Gabriel returned from his business trip, he didn’t find me at home. He asked Rose, but got no answer. In the end, he just assumed my disappearance was my way of protesting against him. Gradually, I was forgotten. “Mia, are you addicted to throwing tantrums? Forget it, don’t bother about her. If she wants to run away from home, let her go.” I cried out in my heart: No, I didn’t! Gabriel, why couldn’t you look for me a little harder? I was imprisoned like this for three years, becoming nothing but skin and bones. Rose would occasionally bring me some leftover dog food, just enough to keep me from starving to death. My tongue had been cut out, so I couldn’t say a single word. But recently… I felt confused, blinking my sore eyes. Rose hadn’t given me any food for a long time. My body was extremely weak, all four limbs chained, surrounded by darkness and a foul stench. A bitter smile crossed my mind. Perhaps today would be the day I die. But then Gabriel brought a large team of bodyguards to stand in the courtyard. Pinching his nose, he called out: “Mia, I know you’re hiding in there. If you’re willing to personally perform the surgery on Rose, I can forgive you for leaving without a word three years ago.”

I had been missing for three years, and Gabriel finally remembered me. He thought I was still throwing a tantrum and kept trying to persuade me: “Mia, I won’t agree to divorce you. You’ve been gone for three years, surely you’ve had enough of being willful. It’s time for you to come back.” “Mia, Rose is seriously ill. All the doctors in A City told me that only you can perform this surgery. Please come out and do the surgery for Rose, okay?” My expression was wooden, but hearing these words, I finally showed a hint of emotion. So Rose was seriously ill. Gabriel, you only remembered me now? It’s been three years already? Before marrying Gabriel, I was a highly reputable doctor. After marrying him, I became the lady of his house. Every day was spent taking care of Gabriel and handling messes for his family business. If not for Gabriel’s calls, I would have forgotten that I was once a doctor. I opened my mouth, wanting to shout loudly, wanting to tell Gabriel that I was in the cellar. But I could only make a “heh heh” sound. I had lost my tongue long ago. I began to cry silently, tears wetting my cheeks. Gabriel continued shouting in the courtyard: “Mia, stop throwing tantrums. Rose is our adopted daughter. How can you bear to see her die so young?” I remained silent, my face wooden. What he didn’t know was that Rose had imprisoned me for three years. For three years, I had lived like a dog. Without a tongue, I could only make low whimpering sounds. The interior of the mansion was managed by servants arranged by Rose, so no one had discovered me. Gabriel frowned coldly: “Mia, you’ve gone too far. What kind of tantrum are you throwing? Don’t forget you’re still my wife. All these years, you’ve never fulfilled your duties as a wife.” “Compared to Rose, you have absolutely no sense of responsibility.” He snorted in disgust, comparing me unfavorably to Rose. Gabriel felt a hint of unease. He had investigated his wife Mia’s whereabouts and found that she hadn’t left the city three years ago. In the end, all traces pointed to this cellar. But would Mia, a person with severe germaphobia, hide in a cellar for three years? This was clearly impossible. Gabriel took out a handkerchief from his pocket and covered his nose and mouth, as if something was bothering him. The closer he got to the cellar, the stronger the strange smell became. He called out a few times but heard no response. His impatience reached its peak. “Send a few men to break down the cellar door. I want to see what’s inside that could keep her hidden for three years.” Gabriel sneered, his eyes full of disgust. “Maybe her lover is in there.” With a loud “boom”, the bodyguards went forward to check, but then turned back to report: “Mr. Gu, there’s a specially made iron door inside. We can’t break it down.” Hearing this, Gabriel was stunned, then flew into a rage. As if he had caught me in some wrongdoing. He continued shouting into the cellar: “Mia, I knew you were hiding in there. I never specially renovated the cellar in this mansion. It must be you in there!” “Continue, continue breaking it down. I want to see what Mia’s lover looks like.” He seemed to have completely forgotten that he was the one who cheated first, and instead was bent on catching evidence of me having an affair. I curled my lips, moving the iron nails in my face, causing festering blood to flow out. Gabriel, when you personally see me in this miserable state, will you regret indulging Rose? After a bout of violent demolition, the cellar was opened. Fresh air rushed in for the first time in years. “Mr. Gu, it’s open. But it’s filthy and stinks inside. It doesn’t look like a place where someone could live.” The bodyguard casually glanced around at the entrance. “Do you want to go in and check yourself?” Gabriel frowned, not believing it. He wanted to search the place himself. But just as he was about to step into the cellar… “Mr. Gu, the hospital called. Miss Rose’s condition has worsened.” Gabriel’s face changed dramatically, his voice trembling. “Let’s go to the hospital. Rose’s condition is urgent.” “Mia, you’d better come out voluntarily to perform surgery on Rose, or I’ll never let you off for anything.” His eyes were only for Rose. Even as he left the cellar, he had to leave those harsh words for Rose’s sake. As I heard the footsteps moving further away from me, I became anxious. I started making whimpering sounds with all my strength. Help! Gabriel, I’m just a few steps behind you. Gabriel, if you just turn around, you’ll see me. But having not eaten for days, I quickly ran out of strength to call out. A wave of dizziness completely enveloped me. But Gabriel didn’t notice the commotion behind him at all. Instead, he walked towards the hospital without stopping. My vital signs began to disappear.

As I lay dying, my soul seemed to float above the hospital. I heard Gabriel suppressing his anger. “Mia should be the one dying. Rose is so pitiful, why does she have to get this illness?” Rose lay pale on the hospital bed. Her words implied: “I don’t blame Mia. It’s my fault for doing wrong with Gabriel. She hates me and deliberately poisoned me to cause this illness. I deserve it.” Floating nearby, I couldn’t help but smile bitterly. So even as I was about to die, Rose was still throwing mud at me. I was really about to die. Gabriel began to curse angrily: “Mia, you’re so heartless. Rose is just an innocent girl. Just because she has dwarfism, you had to do this to her?” “If you have the guts, keep hiding. Don’t let me catch you, or I’ll definitely punish you severely.” A flash of malice crossed Rose’s eyes as she asked expectantly. “I heard Gabriel went to find many doctors for me. Did you find that reclusive doctor?” Gabriel’s face froze, then he comforted her, patting her shoulder: “Rose, I’ll definitely get that doctor to perform surgery on you.” “I believe in you, Gabriel. You’re the best.” The two were lovey-dovey in the hospital room, not at all mindful of the medical staff. I felt utterly hopeless. Even though Rose had shown me countless intimate photos over the past three years, it was nothing compared to what I saw today. I felt a surge of blood in my heart, a sweet taste spreading in my throat. This was the omen of death. My pupils dilated, and after spitting out a mouthful of blood, I finally passed away. Gabriel rushed back to the cellar entrance. “Bang bang bang.” Violent knocking came from the cellar door. This time, Gabriel opened it himself. His expression was full of disgust, not even trying to hide it. “Mia, it’s been three years. You should have some limits.” For Rose’s condition, even if there was only a glimmer of hope, he recklessly plunged into the cellar. But the cellar was empty, except for various blood-stained torture instruments. And a blood-covered figure that was almost mummified. Nothing else. He walked towards the wooden stake, full of suspicion, cursing as he went: “Mia, what kind of trick are you playing?” But the next second. His expression changed drastically, as if he had seen a ghost. His lips trembled, even his fingertips shaking. The objects in the cellar were old and in disrepair. After the bombing and blasting, the wooden stake was about to collapse. The stake swayed, about to fall to the ground. In that instant, Gabriel clearly saw the face of the blood-covered figure. He scrambled towards the blood-covered figure. His eyes nearly popping out of their sockets: “Mia!”

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I Supported Him from a Debt-Ridden Streamer to a Top Internet Celebrity For six years, I worked multiple jobs despite my gastritis to help him pay off his debts. Yet he flirted with others during his livestreams and accompanied sponsors to scenic night views. I never complained, silently cleaning up every mess he made. Until that day, when I received photos of him in bed with his top fan. He knelt down and proposed, promising to marry me once the debts were cleared. I pushed him away and calmly replied, “I don’t love you anymore.” The person I loved was the young man who bought me porridge six years ago. “Ouch—” I curled up on the changing bench, peeling off a band-aid. The fluffy fur of the Mickey Mouse head was sticking to my sweaty neck, while the air conditioning vent blew cold air directly onto my bleeding ankle. Just as my phone vibrated, I accidentally knocked over the iodine bottle with my knee. As Ryan Collins’s message popped up, the brown liquid was dripping onto my phone screen. The light came on, revealing the gastroscopy report I hadn’t had a chance to check earlier: “Chronic atrophic gastritis.” The diagnosis was slowly being covered by the medicine. I quickly wiped the screen with my palm, careful not to touch the costume. A single costume was worth a whole day’s wages from my part-time job. “Babe, a sponsorship deal fell through. I need to accompany Ms. Chen today.” The heartbreaking stomach pain began to throb again. I tilted my head back, trying to hold back my tears. “Okay.” To help Ryan pay off his debts, I had been working two part-time jobs for two years, hoping to clear his debts as soon as possible. Ryan’s parents had accumulated a lot of debt due to gambling. Being a filial son, he started livestreaming in his sophomore year to help pay off his parents’ debts and support his sister, taking advantage of his good looks and physique. However, over the past few years, his business had grown significantly, expanding from online to offline, and he started choosing more lucrative work. “Ms. Chen’s Rolls-Royce leather seats are much more comfortable than the livestream studio,” his words from last week’s stream suddenly echoed in my ears. I clutched my stomach, trembling as I opened my yellowing second-hand designer bag. I twisted open the medicine bottle only to find that I had run out of painkillers. They say the stomach is an emotional organ. So, even my stomach could feel it? Before I could dwell on it, Jane, who often introduced me to part-time jobs, walked in. “Emily, the dinosaur costume needs two layers of cotton lining to be stable enough.” Jane threw the costume over my shoulder. The synthetic fabric rubbed against my sunburned skin, but I couldn’t feel any pain except in my stomach. “The girl who played Mickey last month and got heatstroke was diagnosed with heat illness today.” Seeing my determination, Jane, despite being a capitalist, added a few more words about taking precautions against heatstroke. The scorching 104°F heat couldn’t deter me from returning to the amusement park. “Phew, finally done.” I staggered with dizziness, stars dancing before my eyes as I took off the character head. A cool breeze hit my neck – it turned out a light rain had started. I suddenly remembered that stormy night in my freshman year. Ryan stood under the dormitory building for three hours, holding a leaking umbrella, with a convenience store red bean bread tucked in his jacket. He said, “My part-time job money just came in. Want to go for Japanese food?”

The stinging pain from the blood blister on my ankle brought me back to reality. Without time to think further, I returned to the changing room to put away the costume and continued with my part-time job. As the seventh shot of tequila slid down my throat, the house singer’s husky voice suddenly tore through the noise. “All these years of youth I’ve given you—” I knocked over the bar stool as I rushed to the bathroom, my knees hitting the marble steps hard. Vomit mixed with blood splattered on my newly opened phone screen. Ryan’s livestream was exceptionally clear amidst the filth. His fingers were pinching a cherry stem, using the magic trick I taught him to charm the VIP fan into flooding the screen with Porsche gifts. As my stomach cramped, I seemed to see the Ryan from years ago in a haze. “Babe, you need to eat well even when you have a fever. Come on, the porridge is still hot, hurry and eat it.” Twenty-year-old Ryan braved the rainy night, warming the porridge container with his body heat, the plastic spoon broken in two inside the thermal bag. I slowly turned off the screen, a salty taste now surging up from my stomach. Forcing myself back to the bar, I kept repeating to myself: “I need this job. Once the debts are cleared, Ryan and I will have a bright future!” The fur-clad woman in the booth, cigarette dangling from her lips, saw me return and dug her sharp, long nails deep into my shoulder. “Finish this bottle, and I’ll give you a grand in cash.” Her nail jewels scraped against my collarbone, where Ryan’s bite marks from yesterday still left a bruise. People around started to egg me on, and the manager came over repeatedly urging me to drink. Fighting the discomfort in my stomach, I slowly poured the cold alcohol mixed with my freely falling tears down my throat. My stomach suddenly began to spasm, and I couldn’t hold onto the expensive liquor, dropping it onto the table. Glass shards scattered across the glass table, and the manager’s palm came flying towards me with a whoosh. I fell to the ground powerlessly, seeing countless pathetic reflections of myself in the glass shards. I didn’t even notice my knees being cut by the broken glass.

Ryan’s video call came through at that moment. Taking advantage of the cleaning lady tidying up the table, I ran to the side and pressed the answer button. The crystal chandelier behind the man hurt my eyes. Seeing my background, he hesitated for a moment and frowned. “Come home early after your part-time job.” After briefly saying this, he swirled his wine glass and said with a smile: “Thanks to Ms. Chen, I landed a new endorsement deal tonight. I’ll take you to pick out wedding rings next week.” I stared at the Rolex Submariner on his wrist. Suddenly remembering his reddened hands from our junior year. The chilblains from handing out flyers in 19°F weather were exchanged for a bowl of beef noodles. All just to celebrate my 22nd birthday. Ryan was still showing off the logo on his steak knife in the video. “Why aren’t you saying anything?” His frown was identical to the one he wore during livestreams. A coquettish female voice came from the background. I recognized it as the second-highest tipper who had sent thirty Diamond gifts last month. Blood trickled from my knee into my high heels – the 4-inch stilettos were his anniversary gift. At this moment, the manager called me over. I hurriedly hung up the phone and downed the eighth shot of tequila the manager brought over. As the alcohol burned through my stomach lining, the house singer was crooning, “Forever isn’t necessary for love to be complete.” The neon sign shattered into stardust through my tear-filled eyes. The warmth of that bowl of porridge from when I was twenty had finally grown colder than tonight.

The Hermès gift box in the entryway was tied with a silver ribbon, reminiscent of the clumsy bow he tied on our first night together. The shower stopped, and Ryan came out, pressing against me with steamy warmth. I counted three new scratch marks on his abs, one less than Ms. Li had left last month. “Just bought a new bag, see if you like it.” He licked the sweat off my collarbone, his fingertips trailing down my spine. As the platinum bag’s metal clasp cut through the darkness, I felt the curled hair inside the lining, just long enough to wrap around his wrist twice. Fireworks exploded outside the window as Ryan made his vow in a husky voice. “Once the debts are paid off, I’ll set off fireworks for you every day.” But now, the ticking of his Vacheron Constantin watch on his wrist was clearer than his vows. I counted my heartbeats, waiting for him to tell that all-too-familiar lie. “The platform wants to push me for the year-end gala.” He whispered, nibbling on my earlobe, the couple’s ring on his ring finger digging painfully into my skin. This wasn’t our couple’s ring. Seeing me staring intently, he casually said it was something Ms. Chen required him to wear, telling me not to mind it. “Once we get the bonus, we’ll go get married in Iceland, your favorite place, okay?” I composed myself and said okay. The digital clock on the bedside table changed to 02:07, and suddenly his phone screen lit up. The lock screen notifications were crowded with unread messages, including the topmost one with a pink avatar. “Babe, the couple’s necklace you gave me is so pretty~” My brow twitched, and I closed my eyes, pretending to be asleep. Hearing him tiptoe to the balcony to reply to the message, I painfully supported my sore waist to get out of bed, took out the key, and pulled open the most hidden drawer. It was empty. It used to hold the couple’s necklace I had personally designed for our fourth anniversary. Moonlight sliced through the curtains onto the bedsheet, making the stain he had just left look incredibly ironic. When Ryan returned and saw me standing blankly to the side, he noticed the open drawer. He hurriedly grabbed my arm. “Babe, I’m just playing along with clients, don’t take it seriously. Think about it, we can make so much money just by borrowing it for a while!” “What were you just doing?” I asked calmly. Ryan paused for a moment. “Didn’t I tell you? I’m participating in the year-end gala. My assistant just told me that to win the bonus this time, you’ll need to cooperate with me for a while!”

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On the day Alexander Hayes’ company went public, he was being interviewed on a TV show. I was in a basement, my body covered in wounds, being tortured by a man. To liven up the atmosphere, the host added a small segment. He asked Alexander to close his eyes and call the top contact on his phone. My phone rang immediately. The man holding me captive tied my hands and put the phone to my ear: “Now that you’ve seen my company go public, do you regret leaving me for money back then?” Alexander’s voice came through. I looked up and saw the man gesturing with a whip. I sneered: “Alexander, how pathetic are you? Give me a million dollars, and I’ll play with you for a while.” Alexander fell silent and abruptly hung up. He didn’t know that when his company successfully raised funds years ago, It was because I had secretly sold myself to another man’s bed. On the day Alexander Hayes’ company went public, he was being interviewed on a TV show. I was in a dark room, my body covered in bruises inflicted by a man. To liven up the atmosphere, the host added a small segment. He asked Alexander to close his eyes and call the top contact on his phone. My phone rang immediately. The man holding me captive put the phone to my ear: “Now that you’ve seen my company go public, do you regret leaving me for money?” Alexander’s voice came through. I looked up at the man threatening me with a whip and sneered, “Alex, how pathetic are you? Give me $100,000 and I’ll play with you.” Alexander fell silent and abruptly hung up. He didn’t know that when his company successfully raised funds years ago, I had secretly sold myself to another man to make it happen. Victor Sullivan got off me with a satisfied look, dressed, and left. I lay curled up on the floor, touching the bite marks on my body. My phone lit up, showing a notification of a $100,000 transfer to my account. I froze, feeling a lump in my throat and a surge of complex emotions. Victor called, telling me to get ready and meet him at a restaurant. I didn’t dare delay. On the way, I wondered why he wasn’t spending Valentine’s Day with his official girlfriend. I waited outside the restaurant for a long time without hearing from Victor. Suddenly, an SUV careened towards me out of control. I closed my eyes, bracing for impact, when a strong arm pulled me into a familiar embrace. His scent was so familiar it made me want to cry. “Emily, are you okay?” Alexander looked down at me in his arms, his voice full of concern. I looked up at his handsome face and those familiar eyes. Five years had passed, and his features had become sharper and more defined. Time seemed to favor him even more. The only thing that had changed was that I was no longer the person he truly cared about. When he realized it was me, his pupils constricted, and he roughly pushed me away. “It’s you?” he said in disbelief. I forced a smile. From his appearance, it seemed he had rushed here straight from the TV show to spend Valentine’s Day with his celebrity girlfriend, Sophia. Sophia appeared nearby in a red dress. Alexander frowned, took off his coat, and lovingly draped it over her shoulders. I lowered my gaze, pretending not to see them, and turned to leave. He suddenly called out coldly: “Aren’t you going to thank your savior before you go?” I froze in my tracks, unable to move. His eyes were filled with hatred and emotions I couldn’t understand as he stared at me. I looked at him coldly, waving my phone, and said slowly: “Alex, my price has gone up. Now it takes $200,000 to get me into bed. Want to give it a try?” He was stunned for a moment, then his eyes blazed with anger. He grabbed my hand tightly, gritting his teeth: “Five years have passed, and you’ve become so disgustingly cheap!” My wrist immediately swelled and hurt. I looked at him mockingly, enunciating each word: “Want to sleep with me? I’ll give you a 20% discount.” Alexander’s expression was shocked, his eyes filled with complexity I couldn’t understand. As he was about to speak, Sophia came over and wrapped her arm around his other arm. “Alex, is this your gold-digging ex-girlfriend?” she asked. She looked me up and down, her tone contemptuous: “You think you’re worth $200,000? You’re really desperate, naming any price. But Alex buys me bags that cost more than that.” “Now you’ve resorted to selling your body to make money. If you hadn’t abandoned Alex for being poor back then, I wouldn’t have met such a wonderful man.” Memories from years ago flooded my mind. Alexander and I met in college. We were each other’s first love, sweet yet bittersweet. Back then, he wasn’t a famous entrepreneur yet. My reputation wasn’t so bad that everyone despised me. We were young and naive, sharing many precious firsts together. Though we argued sometimes, we held each other’s hands firmly, dreaming of growing old together. After graduation, Alexander invested all his savings into starting a business, but was tricked and lost everything. Debts piled up like a bottomless pit, constantly demanding more from us. Alexander’s mother suddenly fell seriously ill, adding to the burden on our shoulders. To pay off the debts, I worked several jobs a day, sharing a single piece of bread with Alexander for meals. We saved every penny we could, but it wasn’t enough to keep up with the mounting interest. Alexander’s mother was admitted to the ICU, and we couldn’t afford a cent of her treatment costs. I watched him fall into despair, even sleepwalking at night wanting to jump off a building. My heart was torn to pieces, and I could barely breathe. Victor approached me, offering to pay for Alexander’s mother’s treatment and help revive his business. The condition was that I become his mistress.

Alexander kissed Sophia’s fingers tenderly, his eyes full of affection. “Heaven opened its eyes. Leaving her allowed me to meet you, someone truly worth spending a lifetime with.” Their intimate gestures stung my eyes, making my chest tighten. I pulled my coat tighter, preparing to leave with a cold expression. As I took a step, Sophia stuck out her foot and tripped me. I stumbled, and birth control pills and condoms fell out of my bag. Alexander instinctively reached out to help me, but quickly withdrew his hand. Sophia covered her mouth in mock surprise: “Why are you carrying these things around?” Alexander’s attention was drawn to the items on the ground. He picked up the birth control pills with a gloomy face, looking at me hatefully. He threw them at me. “Emily Collins, have you no shame? Are you willing to degrade yourself like this for money?” “Is money really that important to you? Important enough to become such a promiscuous woman?” I looked at his tailored suit and the luxury watch on his wrist. Bending down to pick up the items from the ground, I smiled: “Of course it’s important! Why don’t you support my business, Mr. Hayes? Help me earn some more money.” Sophia looked at me with feigned surprise, her eyes gleaming with schadenfreude. “How can you, as a woman, say such things? You have hands and feet, can’t you earn money to support yourself?” “Alex… if she hadn’t left you back then, we wouldn’t have met.” “Her thinking is really extreme. No matter what, she was someone you once loved. Why don’t we help her find a job?” These words reminded Alexander of how I had abandoned him for money when he was in dire straits years ago. Alexander’s face turned cold. “She doesn’t deserve it!” He took Sophia’s hand and turned to leave. Before leaving, Sophia looked back at me, her eyes curved in a smile full of malice and mockery. I stood there expressionless, stuffing the birth control pills and condoms back into my bag. I watched them leave. My eyes began to water, their silhouettes becoming blurry. After a long while, I crouched down, burying my head in my arms. I wiped the tears from the corners of my eyes and opened my phone. There were several missed calls from Victor. The wounds on my body still ached dully. Alexander still didn’t know. The funding for his company… I had exchanged my body for it.

Five years ago. Alexander’s mother was critically ill, and we still couldn’t raise enough money for her surgery. Alexander broke down crying, holding his head in his hands. He even considered jumping off a building to follow his mother. After Victor approached me, I came home to find Alexander taking antidepressants like a zombie. I couldn’t hold back my tears anymore and hugged him tightly, crying hysterically. I agreed to Victor’s proposition. To be his caged bird until he got bored of me. Victor was a sadist who enjoyed torturing women in new ways. Whipping and burning became routine for me. I don’t know what kept him interested in me, but he still hasn’t let me go after all this time. It’s been five years now. The scars on my body have only become clearer with each passing day. … I didn’t go back into the restaurant. Instead, I took a taxi home. It had been a long time since I’d been back. When Victor’s official girlfriend wasn’t around, I had to be available to him 24/7. The apartment wasn’t big, but it felt particularly cold and desolate. This was where Alexander and I used to live together, where we dreamed of walking down the aisle together. After I agreed to Victor’s proposal, I pretended I couldn’t bear the hardship anymore and picked fights to break up with Alexander. We had been in love for four years since college. When he went bankrupt, I stayed by his side without complaint, working like a horse to earn money to pay off his debts. We were too clear about our love for each other; he didn’t believe I was someone who only cared about money. I forced myself to break up with him abruptly. To ensure he would have a better life, I had no choice but to do this, even if it meant hurting him deeply. He searched for me everywhere for three months, kneeling before me, crying and begging. Pleading with me not to leave. I cruelly said I was tired of living from hand to mouth. Tired of being by his side, working like a slave to fill his bottomless pit of debt. Tired of being with him, having to split a dollar in half to make ends meet. Tired of being dragged down by his dying mother. I remember how I angrily complained, driving him away. His eyes were red, his lips trembling. The usually proud man bowed his head, his shoulders shaking as he cried silently. I turned away decisively. Long after, I watched him from afar, covering my mouth to stifle my sobs. He lay on the ground, crying his heart out, then got up and left. Someone saw me getting into Victor’s car. After the breakup, I was completely labeled as a gold digger. In the villa, I lay in Victor’s arms. Replaying the heartache of pushing away the person I loved most. I just never thought there would be a day when Alexander and I would meet again. Now, he has risen to a position far beyond my reach, becoming the successful man I had hoped he would be. While I am covered in wounds. I reach out to touch his image on the TV screen. He looks so confident and accomplished. That’s good. My phone rings again. I answer, and Victor’s playful voice comes through. Fear seeps into my bones. He tells me to buy more whips and candles before coming back to the villa to see him. In the evening, the cold is biting. I kneel in front of Victor’s villa wearing thin clothes, freezing. Victor holds a whip, steadily pressing it under my chin, forcing me to look up. He blows out a smoke ring, lifting his eyelids carelessly. “Why didn’t you go into the restaurant? Was it because you saw Alexander?” “You really wasted the surprise I prepared for you.” I clench my teeth, saying nothing. “When the little cat misbehaves, a good beating will teach her a lesson.” The whip cuts through the air, landing on my body. Fresh blood flows onto the ground, my back a mess of torn flesh.

Sophia is Victor’s cousin, and she’s about to get engaged to Alexander. Victor forces me to accompany him to the engagement party. I see Alexander wearing a white custom-tailored suit, looking dignified and handsome. Sophia is in an elegant gown, graceful with every step. They stand side by side, a perfect match of talent and beauty. Everyone is praising how well-suited they are for each other. I shrink beside Victor, my fingernails digging into my palms. My heart silently shatters into pieces at this grand engagement party. Victor looks over, leading Alexander towards me. “Cousin, where’s your fiancée? Why did you bring this kind of… unsuitable woman to my engagement party?” Sophia pouts. Victor glances at me and Alexander, raising an eyebrow: “Just bringing my little bird out to see the world. After all… she won’t have many chances to see such things in the future.” Alexander remains silent, his knuckles white as he grips his wine glass. Sophia teases, then suddenly stumbles, knocking over the red wine I was holding for Victor. It spills on her dress. She yells angrily: “You did that on purpose! You’re trying to ruin my engagement party!” I look up at Victor. He smirks, sipping his wine and enjoying the show. Alexander stares at me intently, his lips pressed tightly together. Sophia glares at me hatefully. She raises her arm and slaps me, knocking me to the ground. “You slut! Waiter, throw her out!” Sophia shouts furiously, her eyes blazing with anger. I fall to the ground awkwardly, as people gather around, whispering. A flash of pain crosses Alexander’s eyes, and he involuntarily takes a step forward, but then sees Victor pull me into his arms. His eyes darken, and he clenches his fists, stepping back. Victor helps me up, gently tucking a stray hair behind my ear. His eyes flick to the crowd, where an elegant woman stands… his fiancée. He lets go of me and walks over to her with a bright smile: “Darling, you came too?” The woman ignores him, and he hurriedly follows after her. The hall suddenly falls silent, as if time has stopped. Everyone looks stunned. All eyes turn to me, filled with curiosity and mockery. They whisper among themselves. “So she’s not Mr. Sullivan’s hidden fiancée, just a mistress!” “She looks familiar… Isn’t she the gold-digging ex-girlfriend who abandoned Mr. Hayes?” “She deserves this. Now it’s her turn to be abandoned by Mr. Sullivan. Karma really does come around…” Someone throws their red wine at me, and others follow suit. Sophia’s friends grab my hair, wanting to get revenge for her. I remain silent, letting them bully me. My eyes are dull and lifeless. A few rich playboys approach with wine glasses, trying to grab me. “You’re pretty good-looking. I heard you’ll sleep with anyone for money. How about spending the night with me?” The crowd laughs, and the atmosphere turns vulgar. Alexander’s face darkens as he steps forward to remove their hands. “$500,000 as a down payment. Come with me,” he says. The hall falls silent once again. Sophia’s face turns sour as she glares at me and Alexander. “Have a drink with me,” Alexander continues slowly.

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Karen, the daughter of my neighbor, is three months pregnant. She sent a message in our building’s SnapChat group, tagging every resident. “My daughter is pregnant, and all expenses for the child will be shared among all residents of Building 3.” “For those who can’t afford to pay, we’ll reluctantly accept valuable items as collateral, like designer bags or jewelry.” “Each household needs to contribute $1,000 upfront. Monthly payments are allowed, but with a $10 interest charge per month.” “Reply to this message to confirm you’ve seen it. Otherwise, I’ll come knocking on your door, and you’ll have to pay an additional $50 inconvenience fee.” Karen swears that her daughter’s baby daddy is one of the residents in our building. The first-floor resident protests, claiming his 90-year-old bedridden father couldn’t possibly have impregnated Karen’s daughter. The seventh-floor resident pleads innocence, stating their apartment has been empty for two years, so it couldn’t have been a ghost from their place. As a single woman living alone on the same floor as Karen, I’m under the most suspicion and am being asked to pay double the “nutrition fee.” I love money too. Is it too much to try and get a few hundred dollars out of Karen’s pocket first?

Last weekend afternoon, all residents of Building 3 were shocked by a message. Karen (402): “My daughter is pregnant. I hereby declare that the child will be raised collectively by all residents in this building.” The sender was my next-door neighbor who had moved into 402 six months ago. Her profile picture was heavily filtered, making her look like she was in her thirties. This was the first time she had spoken in the residents’ group since moving in. Messages flooded in rapidly, with people sending question marks and confused emoji faces. The resident from 501 was the first to mock her: “Did your sense of shame go on vacation with the Great Wall? What does your daughter’s pregnancy have to do with us? If you’re that desperate for money, I can charitably donate some for you to burn at a temple.” Others chimed in with agreement. “You want us all to help raise your grandchild? Will the baby call all of us mom, dad, grandma, and grandpa when it’s born?” “Your daughter didn’t sleep with all of us. Go find whoever got her pregnant.” Karen sent another message, this time a voice note. “How is this not related to you? My daughter was impregnated by someone in this building! You bastards, think you can get away with it after having your fun? Let me tell you, no way!” After hearing Karen’s voice message, everyone’s emotions calmed down a bit. Karen’s implication was clear – her daughter’s baby daddy was someone in this building, and the scumbag had taken advantage of her and was now refusing to take responsibility.

Jenny from 501 quickly apologized: “I’m sorry about earlier, sis. I didn’t know the situation. But you should go after the person responsible, why ask all of us to pay?” Seeing several residents turn sympathetic, Karen became even more aggressive, her tone increasingly disrespectful. “My daughter was knocked unconscious and assaulted just as she got off the elevator one night three months ago. Now she’s pregnant, and I don’t have money to take care of a pregnant woman.” “The son of a bitch who did this is definitely from our building. Since we can’t find out who it is, each household will have to share the cost.” “For now, I’m only collecting for prenatal nutrition and check-ups. Other child-rearing costs will be discussed after the baby is born.” I was speechless. She was clearly trying to swindle the entire building. The resident from 1201 interrupted Karen’s long speech: “We sympathize with what happened to your daughter. However, what you should do now is report it to the police immediately, not cause trouble in the residents’ group.” I had met the resident from 1201 in the elevator before. She’s a teacher at a nearby high school and often helps mediate neighborhood disputes. When she spoke up, others were willing to give her face and stopped saying harsh things about Karen’s messages. But Karen clearly didn’t appreciate it. She tagged 1201 and started cursing. “Report to the police? Report what? You’re supposed to be a teacher, don’t you know not to air your dirty laundry in public? Are you deliberately trying to let everyone know about my daughter’s situation?” “You’re just a slut who’s always flirting with male students at school, trying to drag my daughter down with you? Pah! You shameless bitch, if you dare not pay, I’ll go to your school and let everyone know what kind of filthy trash you are!” “I’ll only say this once in the group: whoever dares to spread the news about my daughter’s pregnancy, be careful I don’t tear your mouth apart.” Amidst Karen’s cursing, the resident from 102 managed to squeeze in a message. “My family only consists of my bedridden elderly father and his female caretaker. Even if your daughter was impregnated by someone, it couldn’t possibly be related to my household, right?” Karen’s fighting spirit was impressive. Her mouth spewed profanities, with many words being censored. After 102 started it, several other households began trying to distance themselves from this troublesome affair and this difficult family. “My apartment has been empty for two years, it couldn’t have been a ghost from my place, right?” “I’ve been on a business trip for six months and haven’t been home.” “Only my mother and daughter live in my place.” …… Karen relentlessly battled with her words against the group, only stopping when no one was willing to engage with her anymore. Interestingly, her daughter, the “protagonist” of this drama, hadn’t said a single word in the group chat throughout the entire ordeal.

The building I live in has two apartments per floor. Next door at 402 lives a mother and daughter pair, and I’ve never seen any man in their family. We occasionally bump into each other in the hallway. Karen dresses fashionably, with tattooed eyebrows and permed hair. Her daughter Lily, despite being only twenty, dresses like she’s in her seventies or eighties. From the few encounters we’ve had, it’s clear that the mother has a bad temper and often scolds her daughter. Lily, on the other hand, is quite polite and always greets me with a smile when we meet. The first time I met them was on the day they moved in. As I came out of the elevator, I saw Karen sitting in her living room, yelling at her daughter. Just because the moving guy had chatted with Lily for a bit, Karen was calling her daughter a “vixen” and a “slut”. Lily seemed meek, keeping her head down as she moved things into the apartment, not responding to her mother’s insults. Karen noticed me passing by and gave me a look that could cut like a knife. At that moment, I had a pretty good idea of what kind of person Karen was. A low-quality, irresponsible, difficult, and aggressively competitive middle-aged woman. It’s a shame that Lily, at such a young age, isn’t immediately reporting this incident to the police. Instead, they’re trying to cover it up and extort money. It’s a disservice to her daughter as well.

Just as the residents’ group chat had quieted down, my doorbell suddenly rang. I peeked through the peephole and saw Karen standing at my door with her hands on her hips, looking displeased. Before I could think much, she started banging on the door aggressively. Lily was behind her mother, tugging at her clothes, trying to persuade her to go home. Karen spat out a curse, calling her daughter “useless girl,” and pushed her away. She then crossed her arms and looked me up and down as if appraising merchandise. “You weren’t sleeping just now, so why didn’t you say anything in the group chat? Are you mute or did your hands fall off?” “Given that you live on the same floor as us, your household is the most suspicious. While others only need to pay one share, you must pay two. And you’ll be responsible for all the fruit. Pregnant women need the most expensive fruits for nutrition and health. You’d better not try to fool us with cheap, pesticide-laden stuff.” I’m the only woman living in my apartment, and there’s no medical miracle that could have made her daughter pregnant. Having witnessed the whole thing, I was fully aware of Karen’s shamelessness and was about to close the door. There’s no point in saying another word to someone like her. Karen was surprisingly strong, forcefully holding the almost-closed door with one hand. But her hand got caught, and a few spots of blood appeared where the skin broke. “You black-hearted little whore, are you blind? If you don’t pay a thousand dollars in compensation today, see if I’ll let you off easy.” She then sat down on my doorstep, hugging my leg and wailing dramatically. No matter how much I tried to shake her off or how red-faced her daughter was trying to pull her away, it was all useless. I glanced at my phone, which had vibrated a few times. It was a private message from Jenny in 501. Jenny (501): “Hang in there, sister. I’ve called the police for you.” Jenny (501): “Let the police deal with this lunatic, otherwise you might not be able to get rid of her today.” Jenny (501): “Let the police lock her up for a few days, see if she dares to make trouble again.” Attached at the end was a gleeful emoji. Unfortunately, Jenny’s hopes were dashed. The police just wanted to smooth things over, suggesting I pay Karen $50 for medical expenses to resolve the matter. Karen was like a victorious rooster. Seeing the police leave, she kicked my door hard and gloated. “You little bitch, you think I can’t deal with you? Pay up obediently, or else… Hmph!” I was so angered by this shameless person that my heart ached. I took a pill of the heart medication my dad had left at my place, and only then did I manage to calm down.

Karen started pestering everyone in the residents’ group daily to pay the “nutrition fee,” but no one responded to her. Jenny vented to me: “It’s unbelievable that they’re not getting rid of this bastard child. Expecting us to help raise the kid, what are this mother and daughter thinking? Have they no shame?” “If we can’t fight her, we can at least avoid her, right? Talk about bad luck. If I hadn’t spent all my savings on this apartment, I’d have moved out already.” Only a few households in this building were renters, including 402. For the past month, Karen had been waiting downstairs early every morning, trying to mooch groceries off people coming back from shopping. She’d take fruits, vegetables, and meat. If anyone refused to give her anything, she’d sit on the ground, grab their legs, and wail, calling passersby to watch the “heartless man” or his family members. The older residents would argue with her until it came to blows. The young girls, being more timid, couldn’t bear the embarrassment of quarreling with her in the busy hallway with onlookers, so they were the ones she swindled the most. At first, she got whatever she asked for. Later, people wisened up and created a group to help each other, timing their returns to her lunch hour. Several renting households were forced to move out overnight. I rarely cook at home, so I secretly rejoiced that she couldn’t bother me. The food delivery app showed that the delivery guy had already taken a photo of my lunch at the building’s designated delivery spot. After searching carefully several times, I couldn’t find it. Before I could call the delivery driver to ask, Karen posted several photos in the residents’ group, tagging me. The sushi I had splurged on to reward myself after finally satisfying a client’s demands after several sleepless nights appeared in the photos. The luxurious sushi was already half-eaten, with the remains mixed with fruit peels and other scraps in the delivery box. “You have money to order such expensive food, but you don’t know to pay the nutrition fee voluntarily?” “Don’t think I don’t know what you do for a living. I hardly ever see you leave your apartment, you don’t go to work, yet you spend money so lavishly. You must be kept by some man, probably that old guy who visited your place last time.” “Since you earn money just by lying down, you should pay three shares of the nutrition fee, and you’ll also be responsible for my daughter’s lunch from now on.” Karen continued to condescendingly “instruct” me in the group chat, warning me to be careful not to let the original wife find out and scratch my face. I responded with a string of angry poop emojis. I was about to continue, but Jenny from 501 sent me a message: “I advise you not to confront her head-on. Just endure it, at most be more careful when ordering takeout in the future. Don’t tell me you don’t know about what happened to Mrs. Thompson on the twelfth floor?”

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After being accepted to New York University, I abruptly ended my relationship with my struggling father. A year later, he bounced back and adopted a daughter who was more obedient and charming than I ever was. During a New Year’s live stream, I requested to connect live to send him my wishes: “Happy New Year, Dad. I hope you find peace, health, happiness, and joy.” He scoffed: “Don’t call me Dad. I don’t have a daughter like you!” I lowered my gaze, holding back tears, but kept smiling: “I’m sorry, this will be the last time I call you Dad.” He sneered: “The last time? I hope it’s the last time before you die.” Hearing this, the host looked shocked and asked: “Mr. Anderson, didn’t you know? This was pre-recorded by Miss Nora.” “And she really did as you said, she passed away…” “Passed away?” His sneer froze on his lips, a flicker of unease in his eyes. But he quickly composed himself. “Is this just a gimmick for the live stream?” The host wanted to explain, but my pre-recorded message continued: “Next, I’d like to sing a song for my dad.” Clearing my throat, I tried to hold back my tears and began to sing: “I wish we could be like before~ Holding your warm hand~ But you’re not by my side~ May the wind bring you health… Thank you for everything you did~ Holding up our home with your hands~ Always giving your all~ Giving me the best…” Finally, I finished singing, choked up. As tears fell, I fled from the camera in a panic. The screen only carried my slightly tearful voice: “Dad, being your daughter in this life has been my greatest fortune.” The live connection ended there. He remained indifferent, “Hmph, putting on an act.” The streaming chat was filled with ridicule: “Hilarious, why is Nora trying to find a sense of presence now?” “Education filters out the uneducated, not the immoral!” “Did New York University find her character unfit and reject her, so now she’s begging for sympathy seeing Mr. Anderson’s comeback?” “It’s like a satisfying story, the evil daughter abandons her father for glory, does all sorts of bad things, ends miserably.” My end was indeed miserable, dying painfully. But I had never done anything wrong. I’d massage his back, wash and cook for him. In the short 19 years, the only wrong thing I did was to sever ties during his hardest year. But I didn’t want to. I was sick, and if I didn’t, I’d drag him down… At this moment, the host also began to explain: “Mr. Anderson, this isn’t a gimmick, please look at the big screen…”

Soon, my image appeared on the big screen. The background was outside the hospital’s oncology department. But the next moment, I held up a medical record to block the camera, my tone impatient: “I said no filming, can you stop following me!” Off-screen, a mature and sincere female voice sounded: “Little sister, my name is Fiona, I’m not a scammer, I’m from the Goodbye Cancer program, I can help you.” I moved the file away, revealing my gaunt and bloodless face on camera. But quickly, I shoved the record to a clear angle, pointing at the diagnosis: “Do you know what wild-type rectal cancer is? Do you know what fetal differentiation adenocarcinoma is? It’s a cancer brought from the womb, a rare disease, only 5 cases nationwide, There’s no targeted chemotherapy plan. The doctor said I have at most one year to live.” The screen went silent. I just tugged at my lips: “It’s useless for you to help me, I’m only headed for death, find someone else.” With that, I turned and left. “Our show pays well, as long as you agree to film, you’ll have money for treatment.” The woman grabbed me. I shook my head, with a bitter smile: “Proton therapy, the only chemotherapy that works a bit for me right now, do you know how much one session costs?” I held up five fingers. “Fifty thousand.” I removed her hand and turned away. The next second, I suddenly knelt down, collapsing to the ground. The camera shook violently, off-screen were panicked shouts: “Little sister!”

[Goodbye Life, Part Two—September 10, 2023—Everyone’s Bald] “You’re Nora, the one who got into New York University this year, right?” I had just sat down at the salon, looking displeased: “Why are you here again?” Fiona’s voice was still gentle, like a caring elder sister: “You’re trending, everyone online calls you an ungrateful person, saying your dad sold everything to get you into college and you abandoned him when he was down. “But they don’t know you have cancer. Let us film a documentary for you, clear your name.” I looked at myself in the mirror, my smile ugly: “I want them to think I’m an ungrateful person, especially… Dad.” With that, I didn’t pay her any more mind, only touched the ends of my hair, lowered my eyes with a bitter smile, my voice barely audible: “I’m sorry, Dad, I couldn’t protect your beloved hair.” When I looked up again, my eyes were red. “Tony, please shave my head.” Tony looked incredulous: “Are you sure? Your hair is so long and beautiful, and it looks well cared for.” I did take care of it often, just a few days ago Dad helped me with it, he loved washing my hair. I nodded firmly, my tone as if discussing something ordinary: “With cancer, even if I don’t cut it now, it’ll fall out after chemotherapy.” With that, Tony didn’t say more, only started shaving my head with trembling hands. Two minutes later, I was successfully bald. I stood up to thank him, ready to pay, but Tony stopped me: “It’s free, you don’t need to pay.” But I still moved his hand away and scanned to pay. “I don’t need anyone’s pity.” Just then, Tony picked up the razor and started shaving his own head. “I’ll join you, I think a bald head looks pretty cool too.” I was stunned. Before I could recover, Fiona also spoke: “Give me one too, I want to try a bald style.” Before I could stop her, her beautiful hair was on the floor. Two lines of tears slid down my cheeks, “You really didn’t have to… I’m really… fine…” But neither of them spoke, only smiled at me, silly grins. Leaving the salon, I turned to face the camera: “I agree to your filming, I don’t want to owe anyone.”

[Goodbye Life, Part Three—September 11, 2023—Silent Fatherly Love] “Why did you cut ties with your dad, isn’t it better to face it together?” Off-screen, Fiona’s voice asked. I gave a bitter smile, “It’s not!” “Why?” Fiona looked puzzled. I didn’t answer, just took out my phone, found a news video saved three years ago. On the phone screen, my dad soon appeared. At 2 a.m., he was wearing a delivery uniform, squatting on the street eating a bowl of plain noodles. Back then, he was just over 40, with graying temples. The reporter asked him: “Sir, why are you just eating a bowl of plain noodles?” Dad ate with relish, simply replied: “Enough.” The reporter asked again: “You’re holding a bag of meat, why not eat it?” Dad glanced at the meat, his face full of joy: “Saving it for my daughter’s breakfast tomorrow, hehe.” The reporter asked once more: “Why work so hard? Delivering late at night?” Dad seemed to think of something, the fatigue on his face vanished, replaced by pride: “My daughter got into a good high school, the best in the province, it costs money hehe.” The video went silent. Dad quickly finished the noodles, then rode off on his scooter. The reporter encouraged: “Sir, keep it up!” Dad waved, “Just do it!” The video ended there. Even though I’d seen it countless times, my tears couldn’t be stopped. I sniffed, smiled: “When I got out of school, Anderson would always have dinner ready at home, but one day, I got out early and didn’t see him. I asked where he went, he lied saying he was out with friends having a feast, but he was delivering food.” “At night, he’d sneak out to deliver once I was asleep, thinking I didn’t know, but I did…” “Back then I vowed to study hard, get into the best university, repay him.” “Later… I got in, but I didn’t get the chance to repay him…” I finished with a smile, but why? Why does one cry while smiling? Tilting my head to wipe my tears, I asked Fiona with a sob: “Fiona, what do you think Anderson would do if he knew I had cancer?” Fiona couldn’t find words. “He’d sell blood, sell a kidney.” Saying this made my heart tremble: “To save up for my senior year tuition and living expenses, he wanted to secretly sell blood and a kidney, luckily I found out and stopped him by threatening my own life…” I finished speaking with a smile, but why? Why do people cry when they laugh? Tilting my head back, I wiped the tears from my face and, with a voice filled with emotion, asked Fiona: “Fiona, what do you think Anderson would do if he found out I have cancer?” Fiona looked at me, speechless. “He would sell his blood and kidney.” As I said this, my heart trembled: “When he was trying to save up for my senior year tuition and living expenses, he secretly planned to sell his blood and kidney without telling me. Thankfully, I found out and stopped him by threatening to take my own life…” I wiped the tears from the corners of my eyes: “Before I left, an angel investor showed interest in his project. “They say when one person gets cancer, the whole family suffers. “Do you think the angel investor would still be interested if they knew there was a sick person in the family?” Fiona’s voice trembled slightly: “Nora…” I shook my head, indicating it was okay. “Cancer might take my life, but chemotherapy, costing 50,000 each time, would take my dad’s life.” Fiona pursed her lips, her eyes starting to turn red. I sniffled with a smile: “On the day I left, I used the harshest words to tear Anderson apart. “He knelt and begged me, saying he’d make a fortune soon and asked me to wait for him for a year. In a year, he’d make me the happiest little princess in the world. “Do you know how much I wanted to stay and wait for him, year after year, and grow old together? “But… I can’t wait…” Tears fell like pearls from a broken necklace, dripping down. I messily wiped the tears from my face and pleaded: “Fiona, can you release these videos after I’m gone?” The screen started shaking, and Fiona choked up: “Nora, you won’t die. You can be cured…” On screen, I swallowed hard, my eyes also filled with tears. “If you don’t promise me, I won’t film anymore.” Her crying became more obvious: “Okay, I promise you…”

[Goodbye Life, Part Four — November 3, 2023 — Nailed the Little Chemo!] In this video, I was noticeably much thinner than before. What was once a slightly chubby face now had sunken cheeks. The cancer cells were spreading rapidly, leaving me in so much pain that I could only lie on the hospital bed like a dead fish. “Can I get a painkiller shot?” My voice was weak. I took out 1,340 yuan from under my pillow and handed it to Fiona; it was all my savings. Fiona sniffled, reaching out to take my money. But the next second, she put the money back under my pillow. “No painkiller shot. You need chemotherapy now. “I asked the doctor. If you don’t undergo chemo, with the current speed of your cancer spreading, you won’t make it through the year…” I smiled slightly, “That’s okay too. Better short pain than long pain…” But Fiona wouldn’t have it, “I’ve already paid for your chemotherapy. The doctor will take you soon.” “Where did you get the money?” I asked, enduring the pain. She helped me sit up straight, her eyes flickering: “The production team applied for it as your appearance fee. Just use it without worry.” I wanted to ask more, but the doctor came to take me to the chemotherapy room. Soon, my body was covered with tubes, and a breathing mask was placed on my mouth. The doctor didn’t allow any filming of the upcoming treatment. Fiona aimed the camera at the door of the chemotherapy room. Moments later, my painful screams echoed from the screen, quite unsettling. The doctor had lied, saying the soundproofing was good, and I could scream freely. Not cool! Half an hour later, the chemotherapy finally ended. I was wheeled out of the chemo room. Seeing Fiona’s camera, I turned my face away. But the camera still caught my face, covered in tears and snot. I quickly wiped my face clean, meeting Fiona’s worried eyes with a big smile. “Nailed the little chemo!” I made a “nailed it” gesture with my hand. Fiona placed her hand over mine, her voice hoarse: “Great job!” “I prepared lunch for you. I made it myself. I hope you like it.” On the table in the hospital room were three dishes and a soup, looking delicious. My eyes sparkled, “Wow, all my favorites! Thank you, Fiona.” Facing the camera, I started acting like a food blogger. “Let’s show everyone what a rectal cancer patient eats after chemo.” I picked up each dish to display to the camera. Then I ate with gusto, even eating half a bowl more rice than usual. Off-camera, Fiona praised me, saying I did great. I exaggeratedly responded, “It’s all because Fiona’s cooking is so good, it reminds me of dad’s cooking, I almost want to lick the plate.” I lifted the plate, pretending I was about to lick it. Fiona sternly stopped me. “No licking the plate.” She placed the camera on the table and cleared the food containers. As soon as Fiona left, my expression turned painful. I rushed off the bed and hugged the trash can, vomiting uncontrollably. When I appeared on camera again, my face was covered with tears from vomiting. “Don’t get me wrong. “Fiona’s cooking is really good. “It’s just the side effects of the chemo are getting worse, making me vomit…”

[Goodbye Life, Part Five — December 31, 2023 — The Last Day of the Year, the Last Day of Life.] “Nora, what do you want to do on the last day of 2023? I’ll make it happen for you.” The scene shifted, I was picking out a nice hat for myself. Hearing this, I raised an eyebrow and smirked. “You said it.” I mysteriously pulled her into the car. In the car, she couldn’t help but ask me again: “Nora, where are we going?” I replied with a cheeky grin, “To pick a grave.” Fiona almost dropped her camera, her eyes reddening again, “Nora…” I didn’t mind much. “Fiona, I researched it. Choosing a good good grave is important. “They say being buried in a good grave ensures a next life without sickness and allows me to be Anderson’s daughter again…” When it was time to get out of the car, my smile froze. Because I could no longer walk. With Fiona’s help, I sat in a wheelchair. I picked a cheap grave and pretended to be serious: “After some calculation, this grave is the best. Being buried here, I’ll definitely be born into a good family next life.” Fiona pressed her lips and nodded, looking up at the sky, not at me. Back at the hospital, I was already hooked up to an oxygen tank. It was five minutes until the end of 2023. Fireworks were going off in the sky. Across from the hospital, a crowd gathered in front of the mall’s big screen for the countdown. The TV on the wall broadcasted the New Year’s Eve celebration. Fiona sat next to my hospital bed, chatting with me. I spoke first: “Fiona, after I’m gone, will you always remember me?” Fiona choked up, “Of course.” I shook my head, “No, you must forget me after a year.” Fiona didn’t respond, only asked: “Can you promise me to live well in the new year?” I smiled, “Rock-paper-scissors? If I win, we do it my way. If you win, we do it your way.” In the end, I lost. The countdown sounded on the TV. Outside, the countdown on the big screen started, 10, 9, 8, 7… Sensing something, I looked straight at Fiona as the clock struck midnight: “Fiona, Happy New Year.” “Nora, Happy New Year to you too. Remember, a bet’s a bet.” My smile widened, “Okay…” “Fiona, let me tell you a secret, I really, really miss dad…” The next moment, the heart rate monitor’s alarm went off. My heartbeat flatlined.

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When I saw Asher again, he had transformed from an obscure actor into a powerful business magnate. Six years ago, I left the country when he needed me the most. Now, as we meet again, I’m on the verge of losing my eyesight, and his partner is a newly crowned Oscar-winning actress. Everyone envies them for being the perfect couple, yet my unexpected presence at the press conference made Asher lose his composure. “You’ve finally returned. At this press conference, I’ll introduce you to some directors. Maybe they have roles for you,” my old friend Phoebe said, linking her arm with mine. “I’m up for anything if they pay.” “Even the really intense roles?” “If the pay is good,” I hesitated before replying. “Didn’t you once sacrifice yourself for Asher’s future by accepting five million dollars from Mr. Felix? And now it’s all gone?” Phoebe was still upset with the decision I made back then. Six years ago, Asher and I were minor celebrities. Felix threatened me by leveraging Asher’s career to get what he wanted. At that time, Asher’s career was on the rise, and I couldn’t let him be destroyed because of me. I gripped Phoebe’s wrist tightly, my eyes red. “Phoebe, I’m sick.” Phoebe’s face turned pale. “What’s wrong? I thought you were living it up abroad. How did you get sick so soon after coming back?” Phoebe softened, her voice becoming gentle. “Retinitis pigmentosa. I just want to earn as much as I can while I still have my sight, to support myself in the future.” I said calmly, but it made Phoebe’s eyes well up with tears. “Why didn’t you tell me earlier? Does Asher know?” I hurriedly took her hand. “Please don’t tell him. He’s happy now.” “Esme! Why are you still as spineless as you were six years ago?!” “I just don’t want to be involved with him anymore.”

But I didn’t expect to run into Asher at the press conference Phoebe brought me to. When I first saw him, my instinct was to run away. Not knowing my way around, I accidentally hid in a VIP lounge. The sound of leather shoes approached. I hid behind the sofa, too nervous to breathe. The door clicked open, and someone sat on the sofa. “Harper, I think you’d look beautiful in that strapless wedding dress. Let’s have the wedding in New Zealand if you like.” That voice! It was Asher. His tone was gentle and indulgent, yet it felt like knives piercing my heart. Harper, the current top actress. I had seen entertainment news about them being together even before returning to the country. It seems they’re already talking about marriage. Six years have passed. No matter how deep the love, it should have faded. Especially since I was the one who chose to let go first, what am I still holding onto? Suddenly, my phone rang, dragging me back from my thoughts. I quickly covered the phone and rushed out the door. Wearing a V-neck long dress and heels, I found it hard to escape quickly. Asher’s footsteps closed in on me. A door appeared on my right. I hesitantly opened it and rushed through. But to my surprise, it led to the press conference hall. Instantly, all the reporters turned their cameras on me. I raised my hand to cover my face, bending down and jogging down the steps. “Stop her!” Asher’s voice came from behind me. I turned and saw him staring intently at me. Several bodyguards in black surrounded me. “Anyone who leaks a single photo from today will face consequences,” Phoebe jumped in front of me, shouting at Asher, “What do you want?! We live in a society governed by law!” Asher calmly walked up to her, “I don’t want anything. I just want to invite Miss Esme for a cup of tea.”

Then Phoebe was taken to that VIP room by Asher’s men, while he dragged me deeper into the corridor. “Asher, be gentle!” He was expressionless, ignoring my words. I didn’t know what he wanted. My heart was pounding. Once inside, he tossed me onto the sofa. His two attendants closed the door and approached me. “You two, go!” Asher gestured to his attendants, then took out his phone, pointing it at me. The attendants, as if receiving instructions, smiled wickedly and approached me. At that moment, I was scared, my voice trembling, almost crying. “Asher! Don’t do this!” I shrank back in fear. “Don’t you love getting into men’s beds? I got two strong bodyguards for you. Isn’t that great?” The men started tearing at my dress, breaking the straps. “Asher! I’m begging you! Please, don’t!” I trembled all over, loudly calling his name. His knuckles holding the phone turned white. After a pause, he put the phone away. My dress was torn. No matter how hard I struggled, the men’s disgusting lips still touched my neck and chest. Asher’s expression changed. He grabbed the men’s hair and threw them back. “Get out! Get out of here!” Asher’s sudden rage scared the attendants out of the room. I quickly gathered my clothes, shivering, covering myself tightly. Asher’s eyes were red, like a beast losing its mind. He gripped my arms tightly, “Isn’t this what you like? Isn’t this what you did to get into Felix’s bed?” “I… I didn’t, I… didn’t…” I buried my head in my arms, trembling uncontrollably, too weak to explain. Just then, Phoebe kicked the door open, pointed her phone at Asher, and pulled him away, slapping him hard. “Asher! You beast! If you don’t let us go today, I’ll ruin my career to send you to jail!” Asher glared at Phoebe, “You think you can stop me?” I tugged at Phoebe’s sleeve, “Take me away.” Phoebe hurriedly draped her coat over me, gently helping me up, her voice choked, “Let’s go.” As she supported me to the door, she stopped. “Asher, if you don’t want to regret it, don’t harm Esme again. Otherwise, I’ll make you wish you were dead.” We didn’t turn back and couldn’t see Asher’s expression, but it couldn’t have been good.

Phoebe took me back to her place. When I calmed down, she couldn’t help but ask me. “Do you regret sacrificing your innocence for such a scumbag?” “Actually, I don’t.” Phoebe looked surprised, “But the news Felix released…” “That was fake,” I calmly stared at the ceiling, speaking steadily. Six years ago, Felix of Starlight Entertainment set Asher up to get me. He planned to sabotage Asher’s career. That same night, if I didn’t go to his bed, a video of drugged, unconscious Asher sharing a bed with another female star would be released online. In the end, I knocked on Felix’s door. But when he lowered his guard, I used a hidden dagger in my high boots to wound him. He saw my determination not to comply and demanded I never return to the country. Otherwise, not only I but Asher would suffer too. But Asher’s grandmother was seriously ill and urgently needed surgery money. He couldn’t lose his job, especially with his career booming, securing numerous big endorsements. He couldn’t afford the huge breach penalty. So, in that situation, I had to leave. I didn’t take the five million. Life abroad wasn’t easy. I worked as a dishwasher, waitress, and cashier. Until recently, I saw a legal report from home, learning Felix had been executed. Only then did I dare return. Phoebe, knowing the whole story, hugged me tightly, sobbing, “Esme, you’ve suffered. Why not stop working? Even if you go blind, I can take care of you.” “You know my nature. I don’t want to be a useless person who only relies on others.” Given the circumstances, I had no other option but to leave, and I chose not to take the five million dollars. Living abroad wasn’t easy either. I worked various jobs, from washing dishes to being a waitress and cashier. It wasn’t until recently, when I read a legal news report from home about his execution, that I dared to return. Phoebe, who knew the whole story, hugged me tightly, her voice trembling with tears, “Esme, you’ve been through so much. Why don’t you stop working? Even if you go blind, I’ll take care of you.” “You know me. I can’t just sit around and do nothing.” “But if you join the entertainment industry, you can’t avoid Asher. He went crazy looking for you back then, especially after learning you were with Felix. We all thought Felix had sent you abroad for a better life. Later, some unscrupulous media even published photos suggesting you were pregnant abroad. Asher was devastated, and when he finally appeared in public again, he was a mere shadow of himself. His grandmother passed away during that time too.” Tears streamed down my face, soaking my clothes. “I suffered from severe depression abroad, which affected me physically. Now, I’m at a loss. There’s no other industry that pays as quickly as this one. My eyesight is deteriorating, and I don’t have much time left.” Half a month later, thanks to Phoebe’s connections, I landed a supporting role as the third female lead. A few days into filming, the lead actress was replaced by Harper, due to the influence of the financiers. I suspected Asher was involved, but I couldn’t understand his motives. Was it just to make my life difficult? That evening, Asher’s Maybach was already waiting by the set for Harper to finish work. The shoot was supposed to wrap up by noon, and I had dinner plans with Phoebe, but it dragged on until midnight. At night, my vision worsens significantly, and I can only make out vague shapes. I stumbled many times on set. This time, it was Harper’s foot that tripped me. I painfully got up from the ground. “Can’t you see? Walking past without even a greeting is one thing, but stepping on my foot?” I quickly stepped back, “I’m sorry, I didn’t see.” “Are those eyes just for decoration?” Harper leaned in, pointing at my eyes. Before I could react, she yanked at the pearl necklace around my neck, scattering the pearls everywhere. “No, you can’t. It’s the only thing my mother left me…” I dropped to the floor, desperately trying to gather them. But I couldn’t see, I couldn’t see. Tears of frustration welled up. “What’s going on here?” Asher walked over. Hearing his voice, I froze in fear and instinctively backed away.

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