Author: Momo Chan

Caught my husband flirting with a female student again, I lost it and wrecked the house. My mother-in-law criticized me for not being able to handle my husband, and my sister-in-law said I deserved it. I want a divorce. Ethan threatened me with our child, so I endured it for the child’s sake. I never expected I’d endure it for a lifetime. Ethan lived a carefree life while I devoted myself to him, and he passed away peacefully. After a lifetime of toil, my children resented me, and I died alone in a rented room. Then, miraculously, I got a second chance and found myself back before the divorce. I opened my eyes to see my long-dead mother-in-law berating me. “Nora, how dare you destroy my house! Are you out of your mind?” “All he did was chat with a female student, and you act like a wild animal, with no manners.” “You can’t control your husband, but you blame him. Well, you deserve this.” “If you’ve got the guts, get a divorce. My son is a university professor, and you’re just a housewife. Let’s see who wants you after that.” “Mom, don’t worry. She wouldn’t dare divorce him,” my sister-in-law Harper said with a smirk. It was her who had egged my mother-in-law on to slap me. “Still daring to break things? I’ll beat you senseless.” My father-in-law, sitting in his wheelchair, mumbled, “Hit, hit.” I knew he was urging Ethan to hit me. With a swollen face, I turned to see Ethan sitting on the sofa, watching TV. I asked Ethan, “Your mom wants you to divorce me. Do you agree?” Ethan didn’t even look up. “I don’t care. Divorce if you want.” I said, “Fine, I agree to divorce. Let’s go to City Hall tomorrow.” Ethan laughed, “We can divorce, but don’t think you’ll take the child. There are no joint savings, so you won’t get a cent!” Here we go again. I, Nora, used to be fiery. The first time he cheated, I asked for a divorce. But Ethan knew me well, always using the child to threaten me. The child! My mother-in-law was about to say something, but Harper stopped her. They knew the child was my weak spot. Mention the child, and I’d endure anything. But now I don’t care about the child anymore. I feel fortunate that life has given me another chance. This time, I won’t sacrifice my happiness for anyone else. I didn’t say anything, just like before. I got up and went back to the room. “Mom, see? She wouldn’t dare divorce.” I ignored Harper’s words, smirked, and started packing. Actually, it wasn’t my room, it was the small room outside my father-in-law’s. After his stroke, he needed someone around. I thought I’d take care of him during the day. And my mother-in-law would at night so I could rest. But she claimed she had a nerve disorder, couldn’t stay up, and any noise kept her awake. She made me move to the small room to take care of him. I was furious. Ethan slept comfortably in the big bedroom every night. Now I decided, whoever wants to take care of him can. Doesn’t my mother-in-law always say I’m unfilial in the community? Fine, I’ll be unfilial. Let Ethan be the filial son! I quickly packed my bed and moved to the master bedroom. Seeing me move to the master bedroom, Ethan frowned and followed me in. “What are you doing moving in here? What about when Dad needs the bathroom or water at night?”

I threw Ethan’s clothes out, “We’re getting divorced. Your dad isn’t my dad. Whoever’s dad he is can take care of him.” “What’s wrong with you? Haven’t you caused enough trouble?” I smiled, “So what if I’m causing trouble?” He said I was causing trouble. I used to think I really was. Arguing with him was trouble, smashing things was trouble. Not eating was trouble. But now I know, hurting myself isn’t causing trouble. Making them suffer is. See, just moving out of the small room and Ethan couldn’t wait to come talk to me. In the house, Ethan barely spoke to me more than three times a day. Turns out, only by causing trouble can they feel uncomfortable. Ethan left the room with a sullen face. I didn’t care what his family said outside, I changed the sheets and went to shower. Normally, this was the time to pick up the child. After picking them up, I’d hurry to cook. After dinner, I’d clean and then help the child with homework. After homework, I’d bathe the child. Finally, I’d clean, bathe, and medicate my father-in-law. Only when he slept did I have a bit of time for myself. At home, I was like a workhorse. After my shower, I started calculating my savings. I graduated from community college and got married after a few years of work. After marriage, Ethan’s salary went to his mom, and I had to report weekly for grocery money. For money, I had to ask my mother-in-law. Ethan wouldn’t give me any money. But over the years, I wasn’t without income. My English is excellent. Occasionally doing part-time jobs, I’d earn a few hundred each time. I now have over ten thousand in savings. Very little, but after divorce, it’s enough to get by until I find a job. And I don’t have to worry about the house. This house was left to me by my parents, it’s very large. It’s pre-marital property, Ethan can’t take it. When I got married, Ethan brought his parents over, and before Harper married, she lived with us too. Now I realize Ethan probably married me for the house. His family planned to take everything from the start. This time I won’t compromise, I’ll kick them all out. At this moment, my mother-in-law pounded on the door, “Nora, what are you doing inside? The child is about to get out of school, aren’t you going to pick them up? The floor is a mess. Lazy.” I opened the door, “They don’t like me picking them up, let Ethan go.” My mother-in-law shrieked, “Ethan can’t do such things.” “Why not? The child isn’t just mine.” “Fine, don’t pick them up, nobody will.” This is my mother-in-law’s usual trick. I used to see the family not working, got angry, but thinking of the child, I’d give in. I’d silently do everything. This time I wouldn’t give in. Soon, I heard a bang outside the door.

I guessed my mother-in-law left. She wouldn’t be back before dinner. I opened the door to see the living room, apart from the mess, only my father-in-law in his wheelchair. I pretended not to see. I went to the study and turned on the computer. Started looking for a job. My English is truly good. I studied Business Trade in community college and love English, never giving it up. I wrote my resume and sent it to over a hundred companies. After that, I went straight to the bedroom. Laid on the bed and started sleeping. I was too tired, didn’t want to think or care about anything. “Where’s the food, why hasn’t anyone cooked?” “Are you dead, lying at home not cooking, not cleaning the floor.” “Ethan, look at the woman you found, lazy and useless. Lying at home not even cooking. Is she asking for a beating?” My mother-in-law’s voice woke me, I impatiently pulled the covers over my head. “Get up.” Ethan came in at some point. I got angry, sprang up, “What’s wrong with you? Can’t you see I’m sleeping?” Ethan snapped, “Sleep, sleep, sleep, it’s still early. Why haven’t you cooked dinner?” “I’m not eating.” “Not for you, mom wants you to cook, why haven’t you?” I was surprised, “Are you deaf or dumb, I said I’m not eating. Whoever eats, cooks.” “You’re doing this on purpose, what did my mom do to you? Nora, don’t push it!” “I’m pushing, what will you do about it? Divorce me, leave! Go find your precious Grace! Let her serve your whole family.” Ethan took deep breaths, “Fine, don’t cook, let the kids starve.” I rolled my eyes, same old trick, nothing new. While we argued, the two kids came home. Lily and Logan are twins, nine years old this year. Logan saw us arguing as soon as he entered, “Mom, why are you arguing with Dad again? Can’t you be quiet?” Lily nodded, “Yeah, Mom, your voice is so loud. And you didn’t pick us up today.” Ethan sternly said, “Look at your mom, what has she become? Don’t ever learn from her, like a shrew, uncivilized.” I almost choked with anger. I coldly looked at the two I gave birth to. Genes are indeed powerful, Logan and Lily completely inherited the selfish traits of the Ethan family. They always saw me shouting at home, and always stood by Ethan. In the past life, when I was dying, they thought of throwing me out. Not taking me to the doctor. I’ve figured it out, husband and children mean nothing. A husband and children like this, I’d rather not have. I smiled coldly, “Fine, I won’t argue with your dad. Hurry and take him out, I have a headache today. You two don’t bother me.” The two little ones looked at each other, not understanding why I stopped arguing just like that. Every time they see me, it’s during a loud argument at home, and they always take Ethan’s side. In the past, when I was seriously ill, all they thought about was how to get rid of me, instead of taking me to see a doctor. I’ve finally figured it out; who needs a husband and children like this? I’d rather not have them. I forced a smile and said, “Okay, I won’t argue with your dad. Go ahead and take him away; I have a headache today. Don’t come in and disturb me.” The two kids exchanged puzzled glances, not quite understanding why I suddenly stopped arguing. Ethan snapped, “The kids are home, and you’re still in bed? Go make dinner.” I ignored him completely. Ethan shouted, “Nora, didn’t you hear me?” Seeing no reaction, he continued, “Are you deaf? I’m telling you to make dinner. How long are you going to keep this up? I told you, I was just having a normal conversation with a student. Aren’t you being too controlling? What will others think of me?” I got up and motioned for the two kids to come over. When Lily and Logan came, I said, “I’m not arguing right now; it’s your dad who’s yelling. Can you ask him to quiet down? He’s a professor but has no manners. Don’t learn from him; he’s acting like a madman.” The kids looked up at Ethan, “Dad, stop arguing.” My mother-in-law barged in, pushing the kids aside, “What do you two know? Your dad is disciplining his own wife.” Lily got pushed and immediately fell, crying loudly. My mother-in-law sneered at me, “What are you crying for, you worthless girl? Did someone die in the family for you to cry like this?” In the past, I would have rushed to hug Lily and argue with my mother-in-law. But now, I’m not that naive! The kids used to be swayed by her words, forgetting everything from when they were small. They’d tell me to be forgiving. Now, I want to see if they remember her kindness without my protection. Ethan frowned at his mom, “Alright, mom, enough. Go make dinner.” She widened her eyes, “Me? What about her?” Ethan was speechless, “She’s not feeling well today. This time, you do it.” I looked at her coldly. See, if you’re determined enough, you can make anything happen. After she left, Ethan took the kids out. I called after him, “Don’t forget to go to City Hall tomorrow to get the papers.” Ethan turned sharply, “Fine, we’ll go. Just don’t regret it.” That night, I didn’t bother with anything. My mother-in-law clattered around in the kitchen, complaining not just about me but about the kids too. I didn’t help the kids with their homework either, leaving Ethan no choice but to do it himself. Through the walls, I could hear Ethan’s frustrated voice. I found it amusing. Before, when I helped, everyone said I had a bad temper and couldn’t teach well. With Ethan helping, my mother-in-law didn’t dare say a word. Finally, after the kids were bathed, my father-in-law tapped the floor with a bamboo stick. My mother-in-law made it for him; whenever something happened, he’d tap the floor, and I’d go over. Tonight, I certainly wouldn’t. “Nora, hurry up. Your dad made a mess, come clean it up.” “Didn’t you hear me? Are you deaf?” She banged on the door loudly. I stepped out and said coldly, “I’m about to divorce Ethan. I have no obligation to take care of him. Ethan’s the filial one, ask him.” “You heartless woman, Ethan was unlucky to marry you.” I calmly replied, “Regret it? Good, hurry up and divorce. There are plenty of women out there waiting to marry your son.” It felt so satisfying! She couldn’t bear for Ethan to take care of his dad, so she cursed while cleaning up after him, dealing with his mess multiple times. The next morning, I got up and started packing. I heard her complaining in the kitchen, “Son, are you really going to divorce? My old arms and legs were exhausted last night. Who’ll do the chores in the future?” “Mom, don’t worry. I’m just using divorce to scare her. Even after signing, there’s a three-month cooling-off period! She’ll definitely regret it by then. In the meantime, endure a bit, let her know the house runs the same with or without her.” “Once she’s quieted down, she’ll take over these tasks again.” She laughed, “You’re smart. Don’t spoil her, give her face, and she dares to confront me.” Ethan smugly said, “I know. She’s most afraid when I’m angry. Once I get mad, she’s like a quail. This time, we’ll teach her a lesson.” “Listen to you, son.” I sneered, remembering they did this in my past too. They agreed to the divorce, but before reaching City Hall, I feared Ethan taking the kids. I backed out before even getting there. From then on, I was always beneath Ethan. Whenever Ethan cheated, he’d talk about divorce, but by then, I no longer had the courage for it. Ethan saw me sitting on the couch with disgust, “Aren’t we going to divorce? Let’s go!” The kids hadn’t gone to school yet. Hearing about the divorce, they looked shocked, “Mom, are you really divorcing?” I nodded, “Your dad said he’ll take you two with him. So pack up. After the divorce, you’ll move out with him. He has money and will buy you a big house.” Logan eagerly nodded, “I want Grace to be my mom. She’s so gentle, helps with my homework, and always smiles at me, not like mom who’s always strict.” Lily added, “I want Grace too. She’s so pretty, mom’s not pretty. Will I have a pretty mom picking me up from school soon?” I laughed, “Then you should help mom convince dad to marry Grace. You’ll soon have a happy life.” My mother-in-law rushed out, “What? Move out? This is my son’s house; I’m not moving.” Ethan looked annoyed, “Nora, are you really pushing me like this?” “Ethan, how is this pushing you? We’re divorcing. You can’t live in my parents’ house with Grace, right? She won’t be happy seeing traces of me everywhere. You’re a professor; surely you don’t want to take your ex-wife’s pre-marital property, do you? What would people say?” Ethan, with a grim face, came to City Hall with me. I was smiling, standing out among the divorcing crowd. The staff quickly handed me the papers, “Check this agreement. The kids go with the husband; the wife leaves with nothing. No savings, see if there are any issues.” I said, “No problem.” Ethan nodded reluctantly. “What kind of man lets his wife leave with nothing? Disgusting!” Ethan turned and glared at the person. I left City Hall. In 30 days, I’d be completely separated from that family. “You better pack up and move out soon. I’ll pay child support on time.” Ethan said nothing and turned away. Back home, I saw my mother-in-law with a sour face feeding my father-in-law. Seeing me, she put down the bowl, “You still know how to come back? It’s so late. Lazy all day, not even making a meal.” “Auntie, you have hands and feet, can’t you cook yourself?”

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The day I came back from the International Anesthesiology Conference, shocking news spread rapidly: my boyfriend and my twin sister had gotten married. I was desperate to uncover the truth, but my sister drugged me, inducing a miscarriage. When the fetus fell to the floor, it was still moving, but my sister heartlessly crushed it underfoot: “A stand-in’s child is just an unwanted burden, I’m freeing it from suffering.” Then she picked up a scalpel and cut into my abdomen, forcibly removing my uterus, causing me to bleed out. My boyfriend believed her lies, convinced the child wasn’t his. He ignored my pleas for help and told everyone I had run off with someone else, erasing all traces of me: “I will never meet her again, in life or death.” Five years later, a surveillance video of my sister brutally murdering me was exposed. My spirit hovered in the air, staring at the paused frame on the computer screen. I blankly watched my body lying on the bed, a hole in my abdomen, blood soaking the white sheets, and a blurred-out mass on the floor. Even my face was blurred out. “Who could be so cruel to drug the victim into helplessness?” Ezra’s colleague said with regret. “But this video is from five years ago. Is there still a point in showing it now?” Ezra sat down. “No matter how long it’s been, we should speak up for the voiceless. Show it to me from the start.” I watched his righteous back, the nameplate on his desk reading “Chief News Anchor Ezra.” In the five years since my death, he seemed to be doing well. Back then, Adeline spread rumors about me and Declan, and Ezra easily believed them. My ashes were probably taken by Declan, but no one had buried me. I became a lost soul trapped in a dark corner. Until recently, my urn was discovered and, along with this surveillance footage, sent to NBC Prime Television. Now, the Chief Anchor was playing the video. I clenched my hands nervously. At the start of the video, when the fetus fell from my body, Ezra suddenly commented, “This looks about five months along. Must have been drugged.” He sighed, “It’s not easy to conceive. Adeline tried for five years before getting pregnant.” Hearing that Adeline was pregnant felt like a stab to my heart. My gentle and loving twin sister, after doing all this, could still be at peace with having a child. But my child could never come back. Ezra’s colleague patted his shoulder. “Good things take time. You and your wife had it rough. It’s all because Phoebe ran off and injured her back then, making her weak.” Hearing my name, Ezra’s eyelashes trembled slightly, his expression unwilling to linger on the topic. The colleague realized the awkwardness and coughed. Then, in the video, Adeline, also blurred out, violently stabbed me. Her hand was firm and decisive, not at all like someone who couldn’t even open a water bottle cap. She raged and cursed, her voice changed. In the video, my head turned to the side, as if I couldn’t feel the pain, my gaze fixed on the mass on the floor. My child was due in less than half a year. It was still moving, still struggling, pleading for help from its mother. But I hadn’t even thought of a name for my child. I opened my mouth but couldn’t say anything, crying silently. Tears kept streaming down my face. Adeline whispered in my ear, almost inaudibly, “What if he finds out this child is Declan’s?” I used all my strength to grab her, shaking my head madly, my voice still weak, “No… How could I…” Ezra didn’t recognize my voice. If it weren’t for Adeline having a face identical to mine, he’d probably have forgotten what I looked like. He stood up with a serious expression, heading towards the studio. Then he suddenly turned back and asked, “Has this video been handed over to the police?” The colleague quickly nodded, “The person who sent it had already asked the local police in Wayne County to investigate.” “Wayne County…” Ezra frowned, as if recalling something, his breathing briefly rapid. The colleague noticed his odd reaction, “You okay, Ezra?” “Make sure they decode the blur,” Ezra didn’t elaborate. He just said, “Such a cruel killer cannot be left to roam free.” I laughed bitterly in the air— Ezra, if you knew the killer was your beloved gentle wife, would you still say that?

I was forced to follow Ezra and watched him finish broadcasting the news. Everything I endured before my death was exposed just like that. But no one knew, nor would anyone believe. The victim was the same person from the headline five years ago, the International Young Anesthesiologist who abandoned her career for an affair. After work, Ezra hurriedly drove to the Downtown High-Rise Rotating Restaurant. In the Luxury VIP Seating, a well-dressed woman was sitting with her back to him. I recognized her instantly as Adeline. Ezra approached, first kissing her cheek affectionately, then handing her a gift. “For the baby. Our little one will look adorable in this.” Adeline’s eyes sparkled with surprise, teasingly replying, “Why the rush? I’m only two months along, not sure if it’ll hold this time.” Ezra lifted Adeline’s hand, placing it on his chest, looking at her with doting eyes. “No matter what, I’ll ensure this baby is born safely.” I never expected Ezra to value his and Adeline’s child so much. When I accidentally got pregnant, I eagerly went to him. He just calmly said his job was unstable, he couldn’t afford it, and told me to abort. He didn’t even look at the ultrasound report I held. I once thought he simply didn’t like children. Now it seems, he just wasn’t interested in having one with me. Adeline’s grip on her glass tightened, her brow furrowed slightly. “Blame me for not being capable. Five years, and I still couldn’t make you a father.” Ezra quickly moved the glass from her hand, letting her hold onto him tightly. “How can you say that? It was your sister who caused this, injuring you those years ago, making you suffer so many miscarriages.” “I only meant well to advise her…” Adeline seemed triggered, covering her head, her shoulders trembling with sorrow. “She’s not my sister! She doesn’t deserve it!” Ezra, filled with heartache, held her close. “If I ever meet that woman again, I’ll make her pay, make her apologize to you!” “Alright, alright, don’t cry, don’t upset the baby.” I remembered Adeline had an incomplete uterine septum, a congenital uterine malformation. This condition made miscarriages common, and successful pregnancies rare. She used to feel inferior about it, even hiding it from family. I finally understood, her jealousy drove her to cut out my healthy uterus. I shook my head frantically in mid-air, desperately exposing her true nature. But no one heard, no one responded. Then Ezra took out his phone and made a short call. “I told Mother-in-law you weren’t feeling well, can’t make it to her sixtieth birthday tomorrow. You know, she loves you, when has she ever refused?” I used to be the one who had to show up at Mom’s birthday banquet, while Adeline could skip it. Because I used to be her most beloved and proud daughter. But now, to ensure Adeline’s smooth pregnancy, Mom even agreed readily to her missing the sixtieth birthday. Adeline said, “Mom loves me the most. Even if she agrees, she must be disappointed inside.” “Phoebe already disappointed Mom enough, so I’m definitely going tomorrow.” I felt a sharp stab in my heart. She took my marriage, stole my life, and now even took the mother who loved me the most. No one knew. Under my grief-stricken gaze, Ezra gently wiped away her tears. “Adeline, you’re just too kind.”

The birthday banquet was more like a second wedding banquet for them. From the moment Adeline entered the venue with Ezra, they were the focus of the crowd. And Mother only sat beside them, watching them with loving eyes. In the crowd, I spotted my closest colleague, Mary. I instinctively raised my hand to greet her, but saw her walking towards Adeline. She hugged Adeline warmly, calling her “darling.” She used to only call me “darling.” “Adeline, did you see the news? Your husband broadcasted it yesterday. I think it happened at our hospital!” At this moment, I eagerly awaited Adeline’s expression of panic. But on the contrary, she calmly said, “Yes, I thought so too.” Mary shook her head, “I wonder if it will affect our hospital’s reputation.” “The last PR crisis was five years ago when Phoebe abandoned her job and caused a major complaint against the hospital.” This was the first time I saw Mary mention me with such disdain. She used to always defend me, standing by my side against rumors. At that moment, I was hoping to see a flicker of panic cross Adeline’s face. But instead, she remained composed and said, “Yes, I think so too.” Daphne shook her head, concerned. “I wonder if this will affect our hospital’s reputation.” “The last PR crisis was five years ago when Phoebe left her job abruptly, leading to a major complaint against the hospital.” It was the first time I saw Daphne mention me with such disdain. In the past, she would always defend me, standing by my side against any rumors. Adeline took a sip of tea. “I’m sure my sister had her reasons.” Daphne slammed the table in anger. “Reasons? What could possibly justify cheating on Ezra and abandoning so many patients?” Her outburst drew everyone’s attention. “So many people were waiting for treatment; some nearly lost their lives due to delays.” “And some developed complications because of the delay, which made the Dean furious.” Ezra spoke up then: “Thankfully, Summer managed to help complete the urgent tasks despite her injuries.” Hearing Ezra use that nickname for me made my heart ache. He wouldn’t even call me by my name anymore. Dr. Beckett came over and patted Adeline’s back. “Yes, although it wasn’t strictly by the book, it was fortunate you stepped in when you did.” “Later on, you proved your ability, justifying my decision to let you take over your sister’s position.” Colleagues applauded, praising Adeline. Even Mother stood up to toast. “Though they’re twins, this daughter is much stronger than the other. That one might as well be dead.” I watched the hatred on Mother’s face, my heart aching unbearably. But Mother, I’m already dead. If you knew I was dead, would you feel any pain for me? At this moment, Adeline’s eyes briefly showed a hint of pride before she nonchalantly glanced at Ezra. “Honey, would you be sad if my sister died?” “No.” Ezra replied without hesitation, as if he had rehearsed it countless times in his mind. “Someone so shameless, even if she bore a child, deserves to be trampled to death.” “And for betraying her profession and harming so many, she deserved to die under the scalpel, gutted.” “Her death is a blessing to humanity.” I stared blankly at Ezra, listening to his words predicting my death, recalling the despair and pain of that time. But my child was not illegitimate. It was your child! Tears of blood fell from my eyes. I forced a bitter smile: “Ezra, congratulations on getting your wish.” The old Dean mentioned me, his expression suddenly changing. “Someone like Phoebe, I really misjudged her. If I’d known, I wouldn’t have recommended her to the hospital!” Daphne agreed, “You’re not the only one who misjudged her, Dean. I believed in her for so many years, only to find out it was all an act!” I covered my mouth, unable to believe it. I thought no matter how Adeline deceived the family, colleagues wouldn’t erase my past achievements. They should have trusted my professional integrity. But eight years of working together couldn’t withstand a few fabricated truths from a villain. Just then, Ezra’s phone received a message. Someone sent him a video. Concerned about the impact on the pregnant woman, he told his colleague he needed to step out. I followed him into the restroom. He played the audio message. “Mr. Ezra, the surveillance footage isn’t very clear. We could only identify the victim.” “The victim seems related to you… You should see for yourself.”

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On the thirtieth day of my silent struggle with my husband, he suggested a trip to patch things up between us. But as soon as we arrived, he broke my ID, smashed my phone, and left me stranded on a remote island to fend for myself. When someone questioned his harshness, he was dismissive, accompanying his lifelong friend, Lydia, to a prenatal appointment: “It’s not my fault she’s so petty. I just used IVF to help Lydia become a mother, and now she’s demanding a divorce.” “The baby is due in eight months. There’s water and food on the island. She won’t starve; she just needs to learn a lesson.” Eight months later, holding his newborn son, my husband seemed pleased and asked his assistant: “Has she not begged to come back yet?” He didn’t know that I had died on the island the very first day. When I opened my eyes again, my spirit found itself in a delivery room. Declan, now a new father, awkwardly cradled the baby, his eyes filled with tenderness. His lifelong friend, Lydia, her hair damp with sweat, weakly asked: “Declan, we have a son now. Do you love him?” I felt disoriented. So, I had been dead for that long. Their child had been born. I touched my own belly. If my child had survived, they would have been a month old by now. As Declan emerged holding the baby, a crowd gathered to celebrate his precious son’s birth, setting off fireworks and distributing red envelopes. “Declan, this kid is adorable, a perfect mix of you and Lydia. He’s going to grow up to be a handsome man!” These people once called me “sister-in-law” and indignantly criticized Declan’s decision to go through with IVF, condemning Lydia for pretending. But they only flattered me because I was Declan’s wife. Declan smiled at their words, but his gaze frequently drifted to the end of the corridor. Distracted, he picked up his phone and frowned at his assistant: “I told you to get her a new phone. Why hasn’t she contacted me these past months or asked to come back?” The assistant lied smoothly: “Nora always curses at you and Lydia, saying she doesn’t want any communication with you.” Declan’s frown deepened: “Stubborn. She’s too headstrong.” “Tell her the child is born. My task is done.” “If she sincerely calls to apologize and agrees to be the child’s godmother, I’ll bring her back.” I chuckled bitterly. He didn’t know I was already dead. Nine months earlier, during a prenatal check-up, I accidentally discovered that Declan and Lydia were undergoing IVF. He told me that Lydia was terminally ill and wanted to experience motherhood. I was so furious I miscarried and, feeling hopeless, filed for divorce. Declan and I didn’t speak for a month. Later, he surprisingly initiated a conversation, suggesting a trip to mend our relationship, promising to destroy the IVF embryos upon our return. I believed him, only to be left to die on an isolated island. Returning to the present, Lydia, lying in bed, pitifully said: “Declan, if Nora returns, she won’t hit me again, right? She can harm me, but not our child!” She adjusted her position, deliberately exposing a small scar on her forehead. I knew the scar was from Lydia provoking me and intentionally hitting a wall after I found out about the IVF. Because of this, Declan despised me, thinking I bullied even someone terminally ill. Declan looked at her with pain in his eyes, speaking firmly: “If she dares to harm you and our child, I’ll make sure she never comes back!” The crowd laughed: “Declan, you’re still as protective of Lydia as ever. Now that the child is born, I remember you and Lydia were betrothed from childhood. It’s meant to be!” “Yeah, Declan, children need complete parental love! Nora’s so petty and extreme. I’m really afraid of what she might do to the child!” Declan didn’t respond, just turned to his assistant: “Did you send the message? How did she reply?” The next moment, Declan’s phone buzzed. His eyes brightened, thinking it was me, and he smiled: “Nora, you finally…” But the voice on the other end stunned him: “Are you the husband of Nora? We’d like to know if you can come to Serenity Temple to pick up a longevity locket.” Declan asked: “What longevity locket?” The other end sighed: “A year ago, Miss Jiang came to our temple, bowing every step, wishing for her critically ill husband’s safety. Later, she returned to express her gratitude, saying her husband recovered and she was pregnant. Our abbot said she was blessed and specially consecrated a longevity locket for her child’s safety, but we haven’t been able to reach her for months.” When Declan was diagnosed with late-stage heart failure, I tried everything to treat him, even begged the heavens, bowing until my head was bloody. Later, I happily returned to the temple, thinking we’d overcome this and found hope. But in the end, I lost everything. I clutched my aching heart, a bitter smile on my lips. Turns out, even an artificial heart could hurt this much. The crowd was stunned: “Who would have thought Nora was so devoted? When you had heart failure, we all thought she ran away to avoid responsibility. Looks like we misunderstood her…” Declan suddenly clutched his chest lightly, frowning deeply. After a moment, he coldly laughed: “No need. Toss the longevity locket.” He hung up the call. Lowering his gaze, he scoffed: “That’s the difference between Nora and Lydia.” “Nora only does things to comfort herself, while Lydia saved my life! If it weren’t for Lydia’s heart donation, I’d be dead!” “Lydia’s life is short because of it, but Nora? She only knew how to be jealous, deliberately causing an accident to lose the child, and then demanded a divorce!” Bitterness filled my mouth. I was the one who donated my heart to Declan. The doctor told me that even if I paid a high price for an artificial heart transplant and took medication daily, with current technology, I’d only live another year or two. I didn’t regret it, grateful for the time I had left. But when I woke from a coma, I found Declan tearfully thanking Lydia for donating her heart to him. I tried to explain countless times, but he accused me of imitating without success. It wasn’t until I discovered I was pregnant that our relationship somewhat mended. Lydia visited me once, clutching her heart, looking desolate: “Too bad, I won’t live long. I probably can’t have my own children or see yours, Declan.” Declan didn’t hesitate to give Lydia the chance to be a mother. That led to the tragedy that followed. Listening to Declan’s accusations, the crowd exchanged glances, the air thick with tension. To ease it, they turned on the TV: “Declan, you just had a baby boy. Don’t be so angry, relax a bit.” Unexpectedly, the news was showing: “A drone survey discovered a woman’s skeleton on a Pacific island. This is an advancement in drone technology…” Declan’s head snapped up, eyes widening: “Which island?”

Someone timidly said: “Declan, I heard the island you took Nora to is around those coordinates…” Declan’s frown could tie knots. Lydia’s eyes glinted, and she gently grabbed Declan’s fingers, shaking them slightly: “There are many similar islands, right? But this skeleton is so intact, like a model from a hospital.” Declan snapped back, coldly laughing: “Hah, Nora used to fake heart disease to deceive people. Now she found a skeleton model to scare me. She sure has time on her hands. I let her live too comfortably!” Turning to his assistant, he ordered: “From now on, don’t entertain Nora’s unreasonable demands! Just provide basic survival supplies, no more playing along with her antics!” The assistant, sweating bullets, nodded obediently. I knew why he was guilty. After leaving me on the isolated island, Declan left without hesitation on a helicopter. Exhausted, my artificial heart couldn’t take it. I reached for my medication. It was this assistant who kicked my lifesaving pills into the sea, disdainfully saying: “Declan is right. You’re such a drama queen, still acting like you have heart disease!” “Just live out your days on this island. Declan and Lydia are having a baby. No way he’d bring you back!” After that, he left the island with everyone, leaving me to die in agony. I clawed at the ground, my fingers bloody, heart stopped, dying in a foreign land. My body was exposed to the elements, pecked by birds of prey. Thinking about it now, that feeling of a heart being crushed seems so vivid. Declan’s mood inexplicably soured. Expression cold, he tucked Lydia’s hand back under the covers, starting to usher people out. “You all should leave. Lydia is tired.” The crowd exchanged looks, leaving the room. Lydia called out to Declan, pleading: “Declan, stay and watch over the baby. They say with a father’s protection, babies are less likely to startle.” Since it was a natural birth, Lydia could get out of bed and leave the hospital in a few days. Declan, holding the baby skillfully, was about to hand him to Lydia. But Lydia’s eyes suddenly welled with tears, falling onto the baby’s face. Declan was immediately flustered, carefully wiping Lydia’s tears, gently comforting her: “Don’t cry after just giving birth, little one will worry about you.” “Please, everyone, leave the room now; Lydia is tired.” The group exchanged looks and quietly exited the hospital room. Lydia stopped Declan, earnestly saying: “Declan, please stay and watch over the baby. I’ve heard that with a father’s presence, the baby is less likely to have seizures.” Since Lydia had a natural birth, she was able to get out of bed and leave the hospital within a couple of days. Declan expertly held the baby, preparing to hand it to Nora. But unexpectedly, Nora’s eyes welled up with tears, which fell onto the baby’s face. Declan was taken aback, gently wiping Nora’s tears and softly reassuring her: “Don’t cry right after childbirth; the little one will sense your distress.” Nora grasped Declan’s hand, the one wiping her tears, and sorrowfully said: “Declan, I want to stay at your place for a few days. I want the child to know how their father lives.” “Don’t worry, I understand my boundaries. I won’t touch anything at your place, and Nora won’t find out I’ve been there!” Declan pressed his lips together, visibly conflicted. Lydia clutched her chest, her eyes filled with tears, and weakly pleaded: “Declan, I don’t have much time left. There aren’t many opportunities for us to be together as a family. Can you give me this chance?” After a long silence, Declan finally nodded slowly. Lydia’s face showed a subtle satisfaction. I lowered my head, managing a bitter smile. Declan had once promised me he would never bring outsiders into our home. Yet here he was, letting Lydia in. She had always been the exception. As soon as the door opened, our little dog rushed up to greet Declan. Noticing a stranger, it barked protectively, standing in front of Declan. The baby’s cries were triggered by the barking. Declan frowned and said: “Buddy, calm down!” Lydia, however, smiled gently, though it didn’t reach her eyes: “It’s okay, Declan. I like small dogs, too.” She crouched down and patted Buddy’s head. Buddy, usually gentle, was only barking to scare off strangers and did not bite Lydia’s hand. Declan sighed: “Lydia, you’re still as kind as ever.” Only I noticed the handful of yellow and white fur in Lydia’s palm. Buddy must have been in pain! Hearing Buddy’s pained whimper, Declan’s expression shifted, and he coldly remarked: “This dog, like its owner, can change its nature and betray at any moment!” He took Lydia’s hand and left with the baby. Buddy remained at the door, biting the bouncy ball I used to play with him, seemingly waiting for me. I felt a sting of emotion. Buddy was just a mixed breed dog, but Declan and I had rescued him during our relationship. He was abandoned right after birth, and we painstakingly raised him, like our own child. He didn’t know that his mom would never come back. After going upstairs, Declan handed the baby to the nanny and called the housekeeper, giving detailed instructions: “Uncle John, Lydia doesn’t like spicy food and avoids onions, ginger, and garlic. Make sure the kitchen knows. Also, she only sleeps on silk sheets, or she’ll break out in a rash…” Declan murmured on, remembering Lydia’s preferences as if they had lived together for a long time. I had always been envious of their childhood connection, but now it seemed I had underestimated it. Unaware of this, Lydia used the excuse of going to the bathroom to sneak into Declan’s and my bedroom. Buddy, seeing a stranger enter our room, tilted his head and followed Lydia upstairs. Lydia looked mockingly at the wedding photo of Declan and me on the table and picked up a craft knife to slash my face in the picture. Noticing Buddy biting her skirt, Lydia was startled. The next second, her face twisted with malice as she kicked hard. Buddy, being just a ten-pound dog, was kicked hard against the wall and fell down. He twitched a few times, with blood spreading from his lips, whimpering softly. I was heartbroken, rushing to Buddy’s side, but could only pass through his body over and over. Lydia’s delicate, cute face twisted with malice. She sneered: “A loyal dog, huh? Then I’ll send you to meet your owner in heaven! This house’s mistress can only be me!” I stood frozen. Lydia knew I was already dead. Was my assistant her ally? Recalling my assistant’s disdain and relentless slandering of me, I clenched my fists. Just then, Declan came into the room, alerted by the noise. He immediately saw Buddy still twitching slightly at the base of the wall. Lydia immediately acted, crying and trembling in Declan’s arms: “I’m sorry, Declan. The dog bit me, and in my shock, I accidentally kicked it. It’s all my fault! The dog will be okay, right?” Declan pursed his lips, reluctantly tearing his gaze away from Buddy. “As long as you’re okay, how do you feel now? Where did it bite you?” “There are bacteria on pets, they’re dirty. I’ve wanted to get rid of it for a while. Now you’ve done me a favor.” After saying that, he pushed Lydia away and instructed the housekeeper to take Buddy to the vet. Lydia wasn’t too pleased, biting her lip and twisting her dress with her fingers. But she quickly adjusted her expression, tugging at Declan’s sleeve: “As long as the dog is okay. If Nora finds out, I won’t be able to compensate her even if I die!” To the unknowing, it would seem like I had bullied her. Declan fell for it, his eyes showing pity, soothing her softly: “If she dares, I’ll make her know what ‘worse than death’ means.” Lydia paused, then tentatively asked: “Declan, my parents want to see the little one more. Will you come with me to visit them tomorrow?” Declan nodded: “Of course, the child is meant to be raised by your parents.” Lydia’s smug expression froze, jealousy and resentment flashing in her eyes. She reached for Declan’s hand, acting coy: “Declan, why do you feel more distant from me? We—” But Declan avoided her, lost in thought. “The guest room is ready. You should rest. The little one has been fussy lately, and you haven’t been sleeping well.” That night, Declan couldn’t sleep. He occasionally took out his phone and opened my chat window. Finding my last message from eight months ago, when he invited me to travel abroad and I replied “Okay,” he felt uneasy. I worried about Buddy’s health, but my soul couldn’t stray too far from Declan, so I could only stare at Buddy’s food and toys. The next moment, Declan suddenly came over. My heart skipped a beat as he crouched down and opened Buddy’s favorite can of dog food. Then he opened my chat window. “Nora, I’ve taken care of everything. Come back, Buddy misses you.” This rare moment of softness from Declan wasn’t met with my usual quick reply. I could no longer respond to his messages. Just then, the housekeeper returned. Declan saw his empty hands and asked: “Where’s the dog?” The housekeeper hesitated: “Six ribs were broken, piercing the heart. It didn’t make it to the hospital… Sir, should we have it cremated?” My heart ached deeply. When naming the puppy, Declan had gently tapped my nose: “Of course, we should call him Buddy. We’re his parents; we’re the closest to him in his little world. We must protect him for life!” Buddy, Buddy, but he couldn’t live a safe life. Declan stood there stunned, his fingers trembling slightly. After a while, he found his voice: “Yes.” “Uncle John, please find me a dog that looks exactly the same. If Nora comes home and doesn’t see Buddy, she’ll make a fuss.” I felt even colder. He had the wealth to find a similar dog. But our bond was irreplaceable. The next day, on the way to Lydia’s house, Declan was distracted, not even reacting to the baby’s cries. When getting out of the car, he took out his phone to urge the housekeeper: “Still haven’t found one? Hurry.” When he looked up, seeing the decoration at Lydia’s house, Declan stood frozen. I found the scene amusing. There were ribbons everywhere. A red carpet covered the floor. A Bluetooth speaker played “Today I Want to Marry You.” And most striking was the banner facing the door: “I Want Us to Be Together!” Inside, the room was packed with Declan’s and Lydia’s friends and family, all eyes on them. Declan tightened his grip on the baby, who struggled and cried loudly. Lydia’s father laughed and handed a ring box to Declan: “Declan, you and Lydia were betrothed from childhood, not a match for that humble family of Nora.” “Now you have a child. You’re not going to back out, are you? Marry Lydia and give her a title!” Lydia blushed, lowered her head, and said: “Declan, I know I don’t have long to live. But I want to give the child complete motherly love, to let him know he was born in love, not as a nameless child!” “So, I want to be with you, even if it’s just for a short time.” Everyone started egging them on: “Declan, are you too happy to move? Get down on one knee and propose!” “Marry her! Marry her!” “Now that the child is born, you wouldn’t just walk away, would you? It’s time to marry Lydia and give her the respect she deserves!” Lydia blushed, lowering her head, and said softly, “Declan, I know I don’t have much time left, but I want to give our child a complete mother’s love. I want him to know he was born out of love, not as an outsider.” “So, I wish to be with you, even if it’s just for a little while.” The crowd began to cheer enthusiastically, “Declan, you’re so thrilled you’ve forgotten yourself. Get down on one knee and propose!” “Marry her! Marry her!” This was clearly a forced marriage situation. My heart felt heavy. The day had finally arrived. Declan’s expression turned cold as he tossed the ring box aside, looking directly at Lydia, “Lydia, have you lost your mind?” Without another word, he handed the child over to Lydia’s parents and stormed off. The atmosphere turned awkward immediately. Lydia’s face went pale and then flushed, and she ran after him. She grabbed Declan’s arm, her eyes red, “Why won’t you marry me? Declan, I only turned you down back then because of my pride. You got together with Nora just to upset me, didn’t you? What’s wrong with you now!” Declan shook her off, his gaze more resolute than ever, “Nora would be upset. She’s the jealous type, petty and stubborn.” “Even going through with the IVF made her really angry. If she finds out I agreed to your proposal, she’ll never forgive me!” “For this life, she’s the only wife I’ll ever have!” Hearing this, I was a bit taken aback. Lydia gritted her teeth, taking a deep breath. The next moment, she clutched her chest, speaking with difficulty, “But, Declan, what if it’s my last wish? I don’t have much time. I just want you to agree to a wedding. After I pass, you can still be with Nora. I won’t hold you up for long!” A struggle flickered in Declan’s eyes, and he instinctively wanted to show concern for Lydia. Just as his hand was about to touch Lydia’s chest, he snapped back to reality, “I’m sorry, Lydia. Even if it’s your dying wish, I can’t.” “I know you helped me, but I’ve already fulfilled your wish to be a mother. I hope you won’t overstep.” With that, he turned and left. On his way home, his eyes were fixed on the message he sent out last night, which had gone unanswered. Declan irritably questioned his assistant following him, “Are you sure Nora’s phone can connect to the internet? Why hasn’t she replied to my messages?” The assistant continued to deceive him, “Ah, but the person inspecting the island told me Miss Nora is doing well, she’s just deliberately ignoring you.” Declan was furious, “Useless! You can’t do anything right! Book me a flight, quickly!” The assistant was a bit flustered, trying hard to stop him, “But Miss Lydia is still recovering and needs someone to take care of her—” Declan gave him a scrutinizing look, ice-cold, “What does that have to do with her? Who exactly is your boss’s wife?” Soon, Declan boarded the plane. When he arrived on the island, fuming, my remains still lay exposed on the beach, my clothes long torn by the sea breeze. Declan walked towards the wooden house on the deserted island. There was a crunching sound. He stepped right on my shin bone without care. But his gaze was suddenly caught by something that flashed. He couldn’t believe it, slowly turning back. He saw the dazzling diamond ring on the ring finger of the skeleton.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “295801”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #浪漫Romance #校园School #励志Inspiring #重生Reborn

I lost my voice to save Zoe, my childhood sweetheart. When I finally regained the ability to speak, I held back my excitement, wanting to surprise her. But just before our wedding, I caught her fooling around with a college guy in our new home. Through the crack in the door, I saw her lying on his abs, her face flushed. She spoke about me with utter contempt. “He’s just a mute who can only communicate with his hands. How could he possibly be worthy of marrying me?” She promised the guy, “I’m only marrying him to save face for our families. You’re the one I love, and I’ll never leave you.” But later, at the wedding venue, Zoe frantically searched for me, insisting on marrying me. This time, though, I’m the one who’s going to leave her behind. I coldly shut the door, blocking out their disgusting scene. After regaining my ability to speak, I had practiced for days, hoping to recite wedding vows at the ceremony as a surprise for Zoe. Now, it seems I’m the one who ended up looking like a fool. Zoe had said she wanted the most unique wedding in the world, so I worked tirelessly on the venue, personally overseeing every detail, no matter how small. Back at the wedding venue, I destroyed everything I had prepared with my own hands, then went home and fell into a deep sleep. When I woke up, my phone was flooded with messages and missed calls from Zoe. [Ryan, the hotel told me you trashed the wedding venue. What the hell are you doing?] [Why aren’t you answering my calls? What’s with the attitude?] [Do you even want to get married? If not, forget it!] … [Ryan, are you still mad at me? I really didn’t mean to stand you up…] Perhaps this is Zoe’s true nature. First, she slaps you silly, then when she’s in the mood, she offers you a piece of candy to make up for it. Keeping you firmly under her control. Yesterday, she had asked me to meet her at a restaurant, but I waited until the place closed, and she never showed up. She didn’t answer my calls or texts. Worried something had happened to her, I searched everywhere she might have gone, only to find her in our new home, engaged in that passionate affair. She had grown accustomed to me wagging my tail at her beck and call. But I’m tired of it. I looked at her messages but didn’t reply. The door to my apartment opened, and Zoe rushed in, her high heels clicking on the floor. Seeing me, she demanded, “You were home? Why didn’t you reply to my messages? You made me look like an idiot sending all those texts.” Looking at her face, flushed with anger, I felt like laughing. Was she only now experiencing the pain of sending a bunch of messages without getting a reply? I had endured this for eight years, with her disappearing without a trace. I coldly signed, [I was asleep. Didn’t hear anything.] Zoe came forward and swatted my hands, growing angrier. “I told you not to use sign language. I can’t understand it!” In the eight years since I lost my voice, my parents and close friends had all learned to understand at least some basic signs. But Zoe, the very person I had saved, couldn’t understand. Whenever I tried to communicate with her using sign language, she would get irritated and give me the cold shoulder. To this day, she couldn’t even understand the simplest sign for “thank you.” I had no desire to sign anymore, nor did I want to tell her the truth about my restored ability to speak. Zoe threw her bag on the table and crossed her arms. “We’re getting married in a week. Why did you destroy the wedding venue?” Simply put, I don’t want to get married anymore. I’m tired, weary, and fed up. I typed out a message on my phone: [I just wasn’t satisfied with how I had arranged it.] Hearing this, Zoe’s tense expression softened. She took my arm and leaned gently on my shoulder. “You must be exhausted. Let’s leave it to the wedding planners.” Her phone rang abruptly, and she immediately let go of me, sneaking away to answer the call. Through the door, her words were all too clear. “I know you miss me. I’ll be with you tonight, baby.” “Him? Just thinking about sleeping next to him after we’re married makes me sick. How could he compare to you?” “The food was good last time, so I’ll have him make it for you again.” The call ended with Zoe blowing a kiss, and she walked out of the room. I couldn’t help but recall Zoe’s behavior these past few days. Indeed, she had been coming home very late for many nights, and I would only hear the heavy sound of the door closing in the early hours of the morning when I was half-asleep. I may have lost my voice, but I wasn’t deaf. Each time I was woken up by the noise, I found it hard to fall back asleep. I had asked Zoe what she was so busy with, coming home so late every day. She always brushed me off impatiently, “Work, of course. Writing proposals with clients. What else could it be?” I would make her hangover soup, and she would mutter behind my back. “You can’t even get a proper job yourself, and now you’re trying to control me.” Most of the time, I pretended not to hear. So, her recent strange behavior was because she had found a man she cared about outside. Abandoning me to be with someone else. “Make some food for me to take away,” she said. Then she added, “The same dishes you sent to my office before, but spicier this time.” So, the carefully prepared stomach-friendly meals I had made for her had all gone into another man’s mouth. She had a sensitive stomach, and even though I used to love spicy food, I was willing to eat bland meals with her. But now she was thinking about someone else’s tastes, using the food I made to please another man. How ridiculous. I didn’t cook for Zoe. Instead, I went to my parents’ house.

“Mom, Dad, I don’t want to marry Zoe anymore.” Seeing me speak, their eyes immediately welled up with tears. Mom hugged me, sobbing uncontrollably, asking over and over if I had fully recovered. My parents had never wanted me to follow Zoe around since childhood, let alone marry her, so they readily agreed to my request. Although I had practiced hard for a long time, my voice was still hoarse and strained. My parents immediately contacted doctors abroad. I nodded in agreement, “I’ll go abroad for treatment in a week, after I’ve sorted everything out.” Years ago, when I saved her, I was nearly choked to death by the enraged kidnappers in an abandoned warehouse. When I woke up, I couldn’t make a sound. Zoe was crying heavily by my side, her tears falling like broken strings onto the hospital bed, soaking the sheets. After years of unsuccessful treatment, Zoe grew discouraged. Not wanting her to exhaust herself, I simply gave up. Zoe said, “Ryan, don’t be afraid. I won’t look down on you.” When I returned home, there was no sign of Zoe. It seemed she had left eagerly as soon as I was gone. My friend William sent me a message with a video attached. [Ryan, is this Zoe?] [Why is she cuddling with a guy in a bar? Aren’t you two getting married soon?] [The guy looks familiar. I think he’s Xavier Quinn, the new intern at the company.] In the dimly lit, flashy bar, it was the same young college student from last night. Zoe and he were dirty dancing in the crowd, kissing passionately. Her slender arms climbed up his shoulders, emotionally embracing his neck. In the past, she had never even deigned to give me a kiss. At our engagement party, I was only allowed to kiss her hand. She told me she preferred to take things slow, and that we should wait until the wedding for a real kiss. But with him, whom she had only known for a short time, she could hug, kiss, and sleep together. I was truly a complete fool. Zoe had never liked me for a moment. Back in school, she was the adored princess, ignoring my feelings for her. It was only after I was injured saving her that she deigned to give me a glance. As she said, she was willing to marry me just to settle a debt. She just didn’t want to be seen as ungrateful. I contacted William and met with him, bringing the share transfer agreement. He looked at me in surprise, utterly confused. “Ryan, wasn’t this supposed to be your wedding gift to Zoe?” In the company we three founded, William and I each owned 33% of the shares, while Zoe had 34%. I had always planned to gift my 33% shares to Zoe at our wedding, as a token of my sincerity in marrying her. But now, it was no longer necessary. After some consideration, I spoke, “She doesn’t need it anymore. I’m transferring these shares to you at the lowest price. From now on, you’ll have veto power and won’t be controlled by her anymore.” William stared at me in shock as my mouth moved, unable to react for a long time. His voice trembled with joy, “You… you’re better? Ryan, you can speak!” I nodded and signed my name on the share transfer agreement. William is my best friend, and I feel confident leaving the company in his hands. In the past, because of my love for Zoe, I often turned a blind eye to her unreasonable actions in running the company, ignoring William’s complaints and accusations. But that won’t happen anymore. The company will surely develop better under William’s management.

The next day, Zoe returned home and threw her expensive bag at my face, furious. “Why did you fire Xavier?” My cheek stung, but I didn’t move, just rubbed it gently. Yesterday, I had asked William to fire the college student, and he had acted quickly. Zoe grew anxious, “He’s just an intern, doesn’t earn much. How is he supposed to survive now that you’ve fired him?” Every word she spoke betrayed her fondness and concern for Xavier. [Do you care about him that much?] I typed. Seeing my words, Zoe hesitated for a moment before speaking again, “No, I just… I just feel sorry for him. His family is struggling financially.” I didn’t say anything more. Seeing my unhappy expression, Zoe tried to speak more patiently. “The wedding is just a few days away. Let’s not fight, okay? You’ve always listened to me, haven’t you?” Fight? I hadn’t even said a harsh word. This was just her venting one-sidedly. I did listen to her, to the point where I let myself be cheated on. [I looked at his resume. His major doesn’t fit our company’s needs. He’s not suitable.] Zoe exploded, her shrill voice echoing through the room. “I own 34% of the company shares. I have the final say. And you, a mute, what right do you have to judge him!” You, a mute. Her words stabbed at my heart. Did I want to become mute? Did I choose to lose my voice? Over the past years, countless times of ridicule and disdain, and I had always turned a blind eye. Zoe’s hurtful words were as harsh and cutting as ever. Why had it taken me until now to see clearly? She called HR, insisting on keeping Xavier’s job, only to be regretfully informed that it was William’s order. I showed her the share transfer agreement with William, and she immediately understood everything. “Why did you transfer your shares to him! I’ve been talking to you about the shares for so long, and you never agreed to give them to me.” Her voice took on a crying tone. I just looked at her coldly. [Zoe, if you despise me for being mute, we don’t have to get married. I’m not forcing you.] Zoe saw what I had typed, snatched my phone, and smashed it on the ground. “How am I supposed to explain if we don’t get married! Ryan Sullivan, you never truly loved me.” I did love her, but did she love me? She had already completely disregarded my feelings and self-esteem, brazenly using the word “explain” to humiliate me. As Zoe was crying, she received a call from Xavier. Over the phone, I heard Xavier’s pitiful voice, “Sis, my stomach hurts so bad.” It seemed Xavier had been drinking at a bar, forced to down several bottles. Zoe was extremely worried about him, no longer caring about me. She hurriedly left. This made me feel even more like a clown. In the past, I always put Zoe first, prioritizing her above everything else. In school, when she was bullied, I stood up for her and got my leg broken in the fight. The very next day, she was laughing and chatting with the guy who had bullied her. I advised her to stay away from such a bad guy. But she stubbornly refused, blaming me for bruising the face of the guy she had a crush on during the fight. I still can’t forget Zoe’s cold face, her moist eyes glaring at me fiercely as she scolded me for meddling. Thinking of my foolish past self, I find it utterly laughable. I was truly able to endure, following her despite being humiliated in countless ways. Was my brain kicked by a donkey in the past? Putting aside those memories, I calmly entrusted the high-priced house I had bought to a real estate agent to sell at a low price. I never want to set foot in that house again. It was the home I had bought with high hopes for our marriage, choosing the best location, personally overseeing the renovation. Every piece of furniture, even the pots and pans, every flower and plant in that house, I had personally bought and brought in. But now, none of that matters anymore. I want to sell it, along with all the dirty memories it holds, and expel them from my life. Three days before the wedding, Zoe came to find me. “I won’t hold the share transfer against you. After we’re married, you can get them back from William.” Before I could say anything, she affectionately took my arm and blinked her eyes. “The wedding venue is all set up. Shall we go take a look?” I did want to see how the wedding venue I had destroyed had been restored in such a short time. Stepping into the familiar wedding venue again, everything seemed unfamiliar. Zoe was very satisfied and brought a man with her. “Ryan, our wedding venue was personally decorated by Xavier. Look at his hands.” I lowered my gaze to see his fingers covered in blood stains. “For this sea of flowers, his hands were pricked and torn by thorns.” Xavier ruffled his hair, smiling brightly like an eager-to-please puppy. “As long as sis and brother Ryan are happy, it doesn’t matter what happens to me.” Zoe looked at Xavier’s hands with concern, unable to resist gently holding them. I thought of my own hands. During the wedding preparations, Zoe had never come even once, so naturally, she couldn’t see my hands covered in wounds, cut by wooden boards, pricked by thorns, healing only to be injured again, leaving my hands in a sorry state. Yet when I held Zoe’s hand, she was disgusted. She looked at my scarred hands with disdain, complaining that they were too rough for her delicate skin. Xavier was young, sunny, and knew how to act cute. Seeing Zoe’s concern for him, he pouted and whined, calling her “sis” in a sticky voice. Zoe told me to sit and rest while she went to go over the wedding procedure with the planner. She probably thought that since I was mute, there was no need for me to go along. As I watched Xavier and Zoe enter the same floor of the hotel one after another, I couldn’t help but smirk coldly. In the corridor, urgent gasps could be heard. Before they even entered the room, their tongues were already eagerly intertwined. Zoe was pressed against the wall by Xavier, kissed until her eyes were misty. I heard Xavier say, “Sis, you marrying him really breaks my heart.” “Decorating the wedding venue for you was like killing me. Sis, do you want me dead?” Zoe wrapped her arms around his neck and chuckled softly, “I only want to kill you in bed.” They entered the room, and ambiguous sounds continuously leaked out. After going downstairs, I called the police to report prostitution at the hotel.

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I was crouching at the entrance of the hospital room, scrubbing the floor when Xavier Cheng’s alligator skin shoes stopped in front of me. “You enjoy kneeling to clean the floor that much?” Suddenly, a diamond-studded high heel stepped on the back of my hand. The beauty in his arms looked down at me condescendingly. “Little cleaner, this spot isn’t clean.” Amidst the snickers of onlookers, I felt for the elegant card hidden in my deep blue cleaning uniform. It was the VIP gold card my father had personally given me, reserved only for the hospital’s investors. “Achoo!” The smell of disinfectant stung my nose. I gripped the mop tightly, mechanically wiping back and forth along the corridor. This was my third day working as a cleaner in this hospital. It was also the seventh day since I had taken over this hospital as the primary shareholder. Looking down at the deep blue cleaning uniform I wore, I smiled wryly. Who told me to be so ambitious, challenging my dad to a racing game? He got off easy, flying to Hawaii for a vacation. While I, having lost three rounds in a row, had to honor the bet and experience a month of life as a cleaner. Ding! Just then, the elevator doors opened. I instinctively looked up, but my heart suddenly clenched. It was him, Xavier Cheng. The man I had loved deeply for five years was walking out of the elevator, his arm around a tall, slender woman. He was still wearing that handmade suit I had given him, every gesture exuding the elegance and composure I knew so well. “Xavier, this hospital’s plastic surgery department is quite famous,” a coquettish voice said. I barely recognized Vanessa Sullivan, whose eyes and nose had been completely transformed. She used to be my best friend. “I heard their director is an expert from South Korea? Their filler techniques are top-notch!” Xavier chuckled softly, “Whatever you like, we can do it.” His gaze swept across the corridor, suddenly fixing on me. I hurriedly lowered my head, my heart pounding like a drum. The mop in my hand unconsciously sped up; I just wanted to leave quickly. “Hey, wait. This spot doesn’t seem clean enough.” Xavier’s voice sounded behind me, and I froze in place. His gaze felt like needles pricking my back, making me shiver all over. I took a deep breath and turned to face him. A flash of surprise crossed Xavier’s eyes, quickly replaced by deep mockery: “Well, well, if it isn’t Miss Lin. I heard that recently, one of your family’s companies went bankrupt. What’s this, are you out here working to supplement the family income?” “Xavier, who did you say she is?” Vanessa feigned curiosity, then covered her mouth in mock surprise, “Oh my! The once high and mighty Lin family heiress, now cleaning floors here. How unpredictable life can be.” I gripped the mop handle tightly, my knuckles turning white. Indeed, life is unpredictable. Back then, I never imagined that the boyfriend I had dated for 5 years would be stolen by my closest friend—and that they would flaunt it in front of me on the day of my mother’s funeral.

I’ll never forget that rainy day. I was kneeling in front of the memorial hall, raindrops falling from my hair. My mother had been holding my hand on her hospital bed, saying she wanted to see me in a wedding dress. Now, she lay in this cold coffin, never to see my happy moment. Xavier stood behind me, saying coldly, “Cry a little if you must, but she’s dead. Your tears won’t bring her back.” Outside the hall, the sound of high heels approached. Vanessa walked in gracefully, wearing a red dress. “Xavier, why are you here? Didn’t we plan to go look at wedding dresses?” I jerked my head up to see Xavier wrapping his arm around her waist. “Babe, I just came to say goodbye to Miss Lin,” he turned to look at me with a smirk, “Oh, by the way, let me introduce you. This is my fiancée.” At that moment, I felt the whole world spinning. On her deathbed, my mother had been worried about my future. And now, the man I loved most had brought another woman to show off at her funeral. “Xavier, do you have any conscience left?” “Conscience? Your mom was an A-list celebrity, her death means no more fame for the Lin Group. Without her, why would I even bother with you? Besides, if the Lin family falls, you’re just a nobody. And you dare talk to me about conscience? What an act!” “You!” I raised my hand to slap him, but he caught my wrist. He pushed me hard, and I stumbled, falling in front of my mother’s portrait. Crash! The frame fell to the ground, glass shards instantly cutting my palm. I knelt before my mother’s portrait, watching drops of blood fall onto her smiling face. At that moment, I swore to make these two pay!

Now, they stood before me, taunting and mocking. The gazes of those around us felt like knives stabbing into me. Those curious or pitying looks made me feel like I had thorns in my back. “Excuse me, I need to work,” I tried to keep my voice steady. Xavier deliberately tilted his coffee cup, spilling the brown liquid on the floor: “Now you really need to work.” He wore a malicious smile, as if toying with a lowly servant. “Get on your knees and clean it up, just like you used to kneel and beg me not to leave.” Whispers arose from the crowd around us. In an instant, I felt all the blood in my body flowing backward, my face burning hot. Crouching down, I used a cloth to wipe up the coffee stains bit by bit. Xavier’s shiny leather shoes were right in front of my eyes. I could even smell that familiar cologne. “Xavier, let’s go,” Vanessa linked her arm with his, “Don’t waste time on someone like her.” “Wait,” Xavier suddenly bent down, his long fingers lifting my chin, “You know what? You look much cuter now than when you were that high and mighty Lin heiress.” I slapped his hand away and stood up: “Mr. Cheng, please show some respect.” “Respect?” Xavier laughed as if he’d heard something hilarious, “A cleaner, demanding respect from me?” “Oh no, my lipstick!” Vanessa suddenly exclaimed. A Chanel lipstick rolled to my feet. “Little cleaner, pick that up for me.” She looked down at me imperiously, all traces of her former fawning behavior when she used to tag along with the Lin heiress for free drinks gone. I bent to pick it up, but just as I was about to touch the lipstick, a high heel stomped on the back of my hand. “Oops, I didn’t see that~” A searing pain shot through my hand, and I clenched my jaw. Xavier’s gaze held a hint of amusement, as if enjoying a good show. “Alright, let’s go,” he finally spoke, putting his arm around the woman and turning to leave. But he stopped and looked back, “Oh, Aria, if you really can’t make ends meet, you can come and beg me. For old times’ sake, I might arrange a better job for you, like… my housekeeper?” A burst of laughter erupted around us. I stood there, watching their figures disappear at the end of the corridor. “Just wait. Soon, you’ll know who should really be on their knees.” I turned and walked towards the director’s office. Passing by the glass windows in the hallway, I caught my reflection—beneath the deep blue cleaning uniform were eyes sparkling with ambition.

I stood in front of the director’s office, took a deep breath, and adjusted my deep blue cleaning uniform. Through the crack in the door, I could see Zach Zhou reviewing documents, his long fingers flipping through the pages, his brow slightly furrowed. Knock knock. I gently tapped on the door. “Come in,” his voice was deep and pleasant. As I pushed the door open, the smell of disinfectant was replaced by a faint scent of cedar. Zach looked up, his gaze sharp and profound behind his gold-rimmed glasses. Today he wore a dark gray shirt, sleeves casually rolled up, revealing toned forearms. “Dr. Zhou, I’d like to discuss the hospital’s investment issues with you.” His fingers paused on the document, a flash of surprise crossing his eyes behind his glasses: “You…” “Aria Lin,” I introduced myself, and Zach’s expression instantly froze. He slowly stood up, his gaze moving between my cleaning uniform and the badge on my chest: “Miss Lin?” “That’s right. For the past three days, I’ve been working as a cleaner in the hospital.” I walked to his desk, removed my badge, and placed it on the table, “I wanted to see firsthand what problems exist in the hospital I’ve invested in.” Zach’s Adam’s apple bobbed: “So, what did you see?” “Many issues. Low wages for cleaning staff leading to poor work ethic, chaotic medication management at nursing stations, inadequate order maintenance in waiting areas…” I listed my observations from the past three days. Zach’s expression grew increasingly serious: “These issues indeed need to be addressed.” “Not only that, I also discovered that the hospital has collaborative projects with the Cheng Group,” I continued. At the mention of the Cheng Group, Zach’s expression visibly stiffened: “Yes, they are our largest medical equipment supplier.” “In that case, I intend to terminate our cooperation with the Cheng Group.” I briefly described what had happened earlier. Then I continued, “I’ve already contacted medical equipment suppliers from Germany. They’re willing to provide higher quality products at lower prices.” A glimmer of surprise flashed in Zach’s eyes: “You had this planned all along?” “Correct.” I straightened up, “I’ve been preparing even before taking over this hospital.” I walked to the window, looking at the bustling crowd below. If Xavier thought I was still that naive woman he could manipulate at will, he was gravely mistaken. Cheating on me with my best friend, I could have just written him off as a scumbag and kicked him to the curb. But disrupting my mother’s funeral and flaunting it in my face? He shouldn’t blame me for being ruthless now! “And actually, before entering your office, I had already set things in motion.” Behind me, I heard the sound of a chair moving. Zach came to stand beside me: “Miss Lin, I admire your resolve.” I turned to look at him and found no displeasure in his gaze, only a hint of admiration. “Please, call me Aria.” “Alright, Aria.” His voice softened a bit, “So, what do you plan to do next?” “We need to convene a board meeting to officially announce the termination of our cooperation with the Cheng Group. Secondly, I need a capable assistant.” “You mean…?” I looked directly into his eyes: “Dr. Zhou, would you be willing to be my special assistant?” “Please, call me Zach.” The tips of his ears turned slightly red, but his face bore a gentle smile. “Oh,” I was taken aback for a moment, then nodded. Just then, my phone vibrated. It was a message from Xavier: “Tonight at 8, Ritz-Carlton. Shall we talk?” I smirked coldly and handed the phone to Zach to see: “Looks like someone’s getting antsy.”

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My sister was the unattainable love of my husband. He was willing to be her secret lover. Even when I was drugged and locked in a room with him, he just tossed me into a cold bath and stood by, indifferent. People praised his deep devotion, while I lay feverish that night. Though I survived, I was left mentally impaired. Later, he wept and begged for my forgiveness, while his Uncle shielded me. “Griffin, I’m your Aunt, please show some respect!” I imitated his Uncle’s tone, stumbling over the words. By the time they frantically searched for me, I had already run away with their money. 0 Today marks the third anniversary of my marriage to Griffin, and it’s also the last day of the three-year agreement with my Father. The divorce papers waited silently on the nightstand. Once Griffin signed them, I could finally escape this place for good. “Isn’t today your wedding anniversary? Are you waiting for your sister to personally invite you over?” Father called just as I arrived at the Johnsons. Cora Johnson was leaning against Griffin, teasing him with something that made her cheeks blush. On my anniversary, my sister and husband were entangled like they were the real couple. A three-person marriage, how absurd. “Nora Johnson, come here!” Father shouted at me with a stern face. We went to the study, where a document lay on the table. “Three years and you can’t even have a child to secure Griffin. Raising you has been a waste!” “Sign this, and you’ll get one percent of the shares. Tomorrow, go for IVF, and make sure you…” “Father, I’m divorcing Griffin.” I couldn’t listen anymore and interrupted him. “Are you trying to kill me?!” Father hurled a table ornament at me in anger. I instinctively blocked it, leaving a noticeable bruise on my arm. “Father, you promised that if I took the blame for drugging Griffin and married him for five years, my debt would be repaid.” Father had schemed for me to marry Griffin, and shortly after, Griffin discovered Cora was his long-lost ideal love. I had taken her place to marry him. I tried to explain, but Father covered his tracks well. I had nothing but my untrustworthy word, and no one believed me. So I took the fall, becoming the malicious adopted daughter who would stop at nothing to rise. “If I hadn’t let you marry him, could you have snagged such a good man?!” “Father, I won’t be your tool anymore.” Our conversation ended badly. When I returned to the dining table, Griffin was still flirting with Cora. “Sister!” Cora saw me but didn’t move away from Griffin. “How did you get hurt?” Griffin noticed the bruise on my arm, sounding displeased. “I accidentally fell, it’s nothing.” I awkwardly twisted my wrist. “Sister, how could you be so careless?! Let me help you with some medicine after dinner.” Cora snuggled in Griffin’s arms, pretending to care. “No need, I can manage.” “Nora, how can you speak to your sister like that!” Father started scolding me again. “When will you be as sensible as your sister?! Apologize!” “Oh Dad, don’t be mad. Sister’s just afraid I’d hurt her with my clumsiness. If she doesn’t need my help, then forget it.” Cora spoke pitifully, making me seem ungrateful. I ignored their conversation. I knew that any rebuttal would only bring insults and slaps. It’s not the first time, but it will be the last. The maid bringing the food was a new girl, someone I hadn’t seen before. “Hey, Mary, does the ring fit well?” Cora suddenly spoke. I instinctively glanced at Mary’s hand—it was a gift I bought for Cora with the first money I earned from a part-time job. 0

I remember we were still students back then. I didn’t have much pocket money. After a breakup, Cora cried, saying that guy wouldn’t even buy her a ring. So, I gave her one. Back then, Cora said she’d wear it for life, even after getting married. “Sister, look, the ring fits Mary perfectly! Things should match people, right, sister?” “Yeah.” I drank a glass of water, swallowing the bitterness. Just sincerity—if it’s not wanted, then so be it. “Drinking water is boring, have some wine.” Father handed me a glass of wine. I had a stomach issue from childhood, so my stomach’s always been weak. But no one cared. It’s the last day, I told myself. I stood up, adjusting my expression. “This one, to Father, thank you for saving me from the kidnapper. I’ve repaid my life-saving and upbringing debt.” Griffin looked at me, seemingly hearing my background for the first time. “This one, to Cora, thank you for teaching me what sisterly bond means.” “This one, to Griffin, thank you, I’m free now.” Before I could drink the last glass, Griffin stopped me, frowning. “You don’t…” “You’re not worthy of my toast.” He always acted hypocritical, condescending, offering charity. I shook off his hand, grabbed his glass and mine, and drank them both in one go. “Now, we are no longer indebted.” But as I sat down, dizziness suddenly hit me. Cora pointed at the glass I drank last, looking innocent. A bad feeling surged in me. I looked sharply at Father, who avoided my questioning gaze. What was I hoping for? I should’ve known long ago that no one in this family loves me. “Sister can’t handle her liquor, Griffin, help her to her room.” Cora’s soft, coy voice floated. Griffin took the opportunity to kiss her, then reached to support me. “No need! I can walk myself!” I instinctively stepped back, my voice sharp. Griffin, angered by my reaction, dragged me upstairs. “Let go!” He threw me onto the bed. “Why pretend to be a chaste matron now? Rest assured, touching you disgusts me.” “Then just get out!” I clung to the bedsheets, the drug’s effect too fast. Griffin, frustrated, turned to leave, only to find the door locked. “I love you, but… I’m sorry Griffin… I’m sorry…” Cora’s crying faded away outside the door. Griffin’s face was filled with towering anger. “Nora, you’re really surprising me.” 0

The drug took effect quickly. No matter how I knocked, no one responded. I had to ask Griffin for help. At least they’d have some fear of him. “Griffin, please, I’m begging you! Help me, please…” Heat coursed through me, making me growl like a small beast. Leaning against the cold door kept me barely sane. “Nora, when you drugged me back then, did you think you’d end up like this?” Griffin sneered, watching me beg at his feet. “Nora, how can someone be so cheap?” “You schemed to marry me, and now you want to drug me.” “Do you feel no shame trying to climb into my bed like this?” “The drug—I drank it for you, you can’t do this!” I ignored his insults and accusations. My body’s unquenchable thirst made me want to bash my head in. “Griffin! You can get out, I know you can. I don’t care if you stay faithful to Cora, but please… I don’t want to die like this!” “Just get me to a hospital, just this once! I’m really… about to die…” I clutched Griffin’s hand, begging shamelessly. It felt like he touched my face, but he just threw me into the bathtub. It was just a fleeting illusion. The cold shower shocked me, but I lost all strength and couldn’t crawl out. “It hurts…” I whimpered instinctively. “Hurt? If you shed a few tears, I might believe you.” “Stay here and keep cooling off.” The icy water soaked me, while he watched from the door, arms crossed. I swallowed back the words I wanted to say. It was useless; he wouldn’t save me. “Griffin, I really regret it, regret ever being so foolish to like you.” “Your kind of love only scares me.” Seeing me stop struggling, Griffin left the bathroom. I heard him laughing with his friends on the phone. “Unmoved by temptation, Griffin, a modern-day Saint, our role model!” “Oh my, Griffin, your wife must be head over heels for you…” “But Griffin, won’t leaving Nora like that cause problems?” “What could happen? She drugged me last time, and I soaked in cold water too.” “Let her learn her lesson.” ………… The cold water and my body’s heat tormented my senses. Even biting my knuckles was futile. Griffin noticed I had stopped resisting and left the bathroom. I overheard him on the phone, laughing with his friends. “Griffin, you’re a paragon of restraint, truly admirable!” “Wow, Griffin, your wife must be absolutely enamored with you…” “But seriously, Griffin, just leaving Nora there, won’t she be okay?” “What could possibly happen to her? She tried to set me up last time, and I ended up soaking in cold water.” “Let her learn from her mistakes.” ………… The mix of cold water and feverish heat overwhelmed my senses, and biting my knuckles didn’t help. My mind was clouded, and the sensation of needles piercing my nerves was relentless. I felt myself sinking, suffocated by the sensation of drowning, unable to escape. But I couldn’t accept it. I was so close to being free. 0

The pain was unbearable… That was the only thought echoing in my mind. “Cold…” When I regained consciousness, I was wrapped in a blanket in a car, held by a man. I knew my body was burning with fever, yet I felt cold. “Nora, just hold on a bit longer, we’re almost there!” Hearing my words, he held me tighter and asked the driver to turn up the heat. Was I being rescued? The itch, like ants gnawing at my bones, made me squirm. If not for the man’s firm hold, I might have moved more. But it was unbearable. I instinctively tried to bite my hand, which was already raw and bloody. The expected pain didn’t come, but the metallic taste of blood filled my mouth. It took me a moment to realize I was biting the man’s hand. “Don’t worry, you’ll be okay, you’ll be okay.” I didn’t know him, but his worried expression seemed genuine. That night, I had a persistent fever in the hospital, and the man stayed by my side, talking to me incessantly. I could feel my life slipping away, vitality draining from me bit by bit. “Sir, could you tell me your name?” The man paused for a moment. “Ezra, my name is Ezra.” Before I completely blacked out, I thought that when I woke up, I must thank him for saving me. But I didn’t anticipate that this would be my last coherent thought. I seemed to have a dream. I was curled up on the ground crying, and the child version of me approached. Back then, she was innocent and kind, resilient and brave. “If you’re tired, just rest for a while.” She held me, and it felt like being back in my mother’s warm embrace, so I fell asleep peacefully. 0

Griffin couldn’t understand how things ended up this way. He didn’t know why soaking in cold water left Nora so pale. He didn’t know why a stranger kicked open the door and took Nora away. “What right do you have to take her? Nora is my wife!” Griffin felt an inexplicable rage. “You still remember she’s your wife?” The man’s eyes were red, glaring fiercely. “But soon, she won’t be.” Numerous bodyguards stopped him, and Griffin could only watch as they took Nora away. How could she not be? Nora loved him so much she used deceitful means to be with him. How could she leave him? Despite his thoughts, he still felt uneasy, as if something was slipping out of his control. Until he got home and saw the divorce papers. Nora only asked for a divorce, no assets. Griffin felt like he never truly knew Nora. Besides love, he gave everything to Nora. What was she dissatisfied with?! Wait—love? Griffin recalled the man who took her away, as if he grasped something. “Investigate, find out everything about Nora! See who she’s been in contact with, especially men!” He thought of Nora’s image as a dutiful wife and loving mother over the years, as if she would never get angry. Because she didn’t love, so she didn’t care? Griffin felt an unprecedented anger. How dare Nora betray him! Griffin never considered Nora’s condition after going to the hospital. Instead, he obsessively investigated, as if catching Nora’s fault would solve everything. So, a month later, a document was delivered to him. “Boss, this is all the information we could gather about your wife. Also, there’s one thing you should be prepared for.” The speaker was Griffin’s trusted aide, who knew almost everything about him. Griffin didn’t know why he was nervous, as if opening this file would change something. “Where.” He pretended to be calm. “Your wife’s data was erased, but we discovered something by asking around locally.” “Boss, the kidnapping case you and your Uncle went through sixteen years ago, your wife experienced it too.” “In other words, the one who saved you back then might not have been Cora Johnson, but your wife.” “And three years ago, the day you were drugged, your wife’s whereabouts were concealed, but it’s certain she wasn’t in this city.” Griffin couldn’t hear anything more after seeing the kidnapping information. It was her! It was Nora! Griffin almost wanted to rush out to find her immediately. But when he stood up, his eyes caught the divorce papers nearby. A tidal wave of guilt and regret overwhelmed Griffin, suffocating him. “What should I… what should I do to bring her back…” Griffin murmured. 0

I slept in a daze for a long time. When I woke up again, I was alone in the hospital room. I stared blankly at the ceiling, not knowing why, I started to sob. My chest felt like it was blocked by a stubborn stone, only crying could relieve it. “Nora?! What’s wrong, are you in pain?” The person who came in, I recognized as Ezra. I remembered he saved me. Hearing Ezra’s voice, I don’t know why, but I cried even harder. At first, I tried to control my voice, but when Ezra patted my shoulder, I burst into tears. “It hurts so much, here, it really hurts.” I cried and pointed to my heart, feeling it wasn’t enough, I clenched my fist and pounded it. Ezra’s eyes also reddened, and he held me tight, continuously comforting me: “It won’t hurt anymore, I won’t let Nora hurt anymore.” So I cried until I almost couldn’t breathe, like I was pouring out all the grievances from these years. ………… “In simple terms, the patient’s mind has temporarily regressed to a child’s state, and her memory is confused. We can’t say when she’ll recover, we can only promise to do our best.” The doctor who examined me said. “What’s important is, even with her mind regressed, Nora is too quiet and understanding, not like a normal child.” The doctor looked at me, cautiously hiding behind Ezra, and forced a smile full of pity. “You don’t have to smile.” I muttered. The doctor froze for a moment, then walked over to me: “Nora, does it still hurt?” I instinctively shrank back behind Ezra and shook my head. Seeing he couldn’t talk to me, the doctor sighed. “The patient should stay away from environments that caused her harm. It’ll be up to you to take care of her, sir.” Ezra was about to agree when I quickly said, “I don’t need it, I can take care of myself!” I glanced at Ezra, and when our eyes met, I quickly looked down, adding, “… I won’t be a burden.” “Nora, look up.” I felt Ezra turn to face me, placing his hands on my shoulders. He bent down slightly, speaking earnestly: “Nora is not a burden. I’m happy to take care of you.” “So you can ask me to do anything, as long as you want.” He was the first person I saw when I opened my eyes. In my strange and long memory, he was also the first to say I wasn’t a burden. Tears just fell from my eyes. Ezra held me again. “Sorry, I came too late.”

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Girlfriend smashed my engagement ring and shot me a contemptuous look, “You think a cheap ring could make me commit?” At the same time, Declan, the wealthy heir, was slipping a massive diamond onto her finger. He openly laughed, “There’s no mystery in attracting beautiful women—money is the ultimate allure.” I could sense Declan’s intentions weren’t good, so I tried to warn Adeline to be cautious. But Adeline pushed me away dismissively, “He’s just having fun with me, but one night is worth a fortune. What is your sincerity worth?” Ten years later, Declan brought Adeline to a school reunion to humiliate me once more. Little did they know, I had already become a part of the Southern City’s elite. A decade after graduation, I had achieved great success, ranking high on the Southern City Rich List. Yet, I kept a low profile and rarely revealed my true identity. That day, I was negotiating a business deal at a clubhouse. After closing a deal worth several billion, my secretary handed me my schedule. “The next person waiting to see you is The Young Master of the Shaw Family, worth billions in assets.” “He’s been waiting for you in private room number 9.” I nodded, owing him a favor, and personally went downstairs to meet him. When I opened the door to the private room, I realized I had entered the wrong one. Inside was a table full of old classmates. Declan was at the head of the table, surrounded by the same sycophants from our university days. I had nothing to say to them and turned to leave. However, Declan called out to me. “Isn’t that Finn?” “Seeing old classmates, why not greet us?” He was as arrogant as ever, just like back then. It suddenly hit me—ten years ago, he had used a huge diamond ring to steal away my beautiful classmate girlfriend, Adeline. I had nearly forgotten about it, but seeing him now brought it all back. It was time to settle the score. I paused and looked around the room. “A class reunion, huh? Why didn’t anyone tell me beforehand?” A female classmate laughed. “Finn, don’t blame us for not telling you. We were just being considerate.” “You’re not exactly rich, and we thought you’d feel out of place in such high-end settings.” I fiddled with my car keys, “You worry too much. I’m here all the time.” Everyone was shocked, a bit incredulous. Declan smirked, “You work here, don’t you?” “Are you a waiter or the kind of young master who serves others?” His questions were followed by a burst of laughter from the crowd. The female classmate spoke teasingly, “Finn, you’re quite good-looking.” “Too bad you’re poor, no wonder Adeline left you back then.” “Guess it’s been ages since you’ve been with a woman. I pity you; maybe I should take you on.” “Better than working here as a young master, being walked over by everyone.” Her words were met with more teasing laughter. I looked at her coldly, sizing up her plump figure. “You’re Adeline’s best friend, right? What’s your name again?” She introduced herself confidently, “Phoebe, remember my name. I might be your patron someday.” I picked up a bottle of wine and walked over to her. “If I remember correctly, you were the one who coaxed Adeline into breaking up with me, right?” Phoebe admitted without shame. “Yeah, I was the one who sent Adeline to Declan’s bed.” “I did it for her own good, found her a sugar daddy.” “With her looks, you couldn’t afford her. Forget about her, pour me some wine.” I smiled submissively, “Sure.” Then I raised the bottle and smashed it over her head! The bottle shattered, and dark red wine mixed with blood covered her face. Phoebe let out a scream! Wiping her face with her hand, she screamed at me: “Finn! You’ve got some nerve!” “I was gracious enough to let you serve me, why so arrogant?” I chuckled lightly, my eyes filled with a cold intent, “Do you even qualify?” Phoebe, unwilling to back down, threatened, “Apologize to me now, and it’s not too late!” I picked up a wet napkin, wiping my hands, “What if I don’t?” “Then you might not make it out of this room today!” Phoebe smiled maliciously, looking at Declan. Declan understood and snapped his fingers. Instantly, everyone surrounded me.

“What are you planning to do?” Holding a piece of the broken bottle, I calmly watched them. Declan stood up, acting like he was judging me. “Finn, you hurt someone. Shouldn’t you apologize?” Others chimed in, “Apologizing is the least you can do.” “Finn, do you, a broke loser, even know how to respect women?” “You should kneel and apologize to Lydia, lick her shoes clean!” “Also, compensate for medical expenses! Or else we’ll call the cops!” My face darkened, “Lick shoes? Compensate?” Lydia looked at me triumphantly, extending her shoe towards me. “Smart choice! I know you can’t afford to pay my medical bills.” “How about this, kneel down and lick my shoes clean.” “Then spend a night with me, and we’ll call it even!” My voice turned cold, “Are you sure?” Lydia wiggled her foot, her eyes vulgar, “Considering you’re handsome, I’m doing you a favor!” Without hesitation, I drove the piece of the bottle into Lydia’s foot! The sharp glass pierced through her shoe, stabbing her foot, blood flowing. Lydia let out a shriek! “Finn, refusing a toast only to drink a forfeit, I’ll kill you!” She grabbed a bowl from the table and hurled it at me. I dodged deftly, and the bowl struck Declan behind me! Blood immediately trickled down his forehead. “Lydia, are you blind?” Declan yelled, furious. Lydia quickly apologized, “Sorry, Brother Declan.” “I meant to hit Finn, not you.” Declan shouted, “If you can’t fight, don’t embarrass yourself!” “So many men here, do you need to step in?” Lydia nodded obsequiously, “Yes, yes, yes.” Then she looked at me viciously, “Finn hitting me is like hitting everyone’s face!” “Everyone, get him! Beat this broke loser to death!” Declan waved his hand at the crowd, “Go!” In an instant, all the male classmates grabbed empty bottles and surged forward. I pressed the call button for the front desk, issuing a command, “Someone’s causing trouble in private room 6, send the bodyguards over!” Everyone hesitated, stopping and looking at me uncertainly. Declan sneered, “We’re esteemed guests, very familiar with the clubhouse owner!” “Calling bodyguards is useless. The owner will protect the clients and fire you instead!” Then he snapped his fingers again, urging everyone. “What are you afraid of? He’s just a powerless young master at the clubhouse!” “Even if he’s beaten to death, no one will care!” Encouraged by him, everyone became arrogant again. Their eyes filled with malice, they approached me. Just then, there was a commotion outside the private room. I thought the bodyguards had arrived, but to my surprise, it was Adeline who walked in! She was so beautiful that everyone’s eyes were drawn to her, momentarily forgetting what they were doing. Jealousy flashed in Lydia’s eyes, and she began to remind everyone, “Get him! Why are you staring at Adeline?” “Adeline belongs to Declan alone. Even if you stare, it’s pointless!” Declan looked at Adeline with pride, waving her and her son over to sit next to him. Then he glanced at me with a smug look. He told everyone, “Your sister-in-law doesn’t like bloody scenes.” “For her sake, we’ll postpone this grudge.” Everyone immediately put down their bottles, showering him with praise. “Sister-in-law has great influence; marrying Declan is her greatest fortune.” “Finn’s lucky; thanks to her, he’s off the hook for now!”

I smirked sarcastically, realizing they were married, with a child even. Declan looked at me with contempt. “Finn, remember ten years ago when you proposed with a ring worth a few thousand bucks?” “Haha, it was hilarious. A few thousand and you thought you could win over the class beauty.” “Do you know how much that diamond I gave her cost?” “One million! Compared to your few thousand, any woman knows what to choose.” Lydia chimed in, “If I were her, I’d choose Brother Declan too.” Declan glanced at Lydia, “Not you, you’re too ugly, haha.” “But if I lost my mind and liked you, I’d still buy you a ring worth tens of thousands.” “Unlike Finn, who tried to fool people with a ring worth a few thousand.” Hearing this, a flash of displeasure and jealousy crossed Lydia’s face. But she didn’t show it and continued flattering Declan. “I know, I’m aware I’m not as pretty as our great class beauty Adeline.” Lydia chimed in, “If I had the choice, I’d pick Brother Declan as well.” Declan glanced at Lydia with a smirk, “You wouldn’t stand a chance; you’re just not my type.” “But if I ever lost my mind and fancied you, I’d still give you a ring worth tens of thousands.” “Unlike Finn, who tries to impress with cheap trinkets.” Lydia’s eyes flickered with displeasure and jealousy, but she continued to flatter Declan as always. “True, I know my limits. I can’t compare to our lovely class beauty, Adeline.” “She’s so popular, even when she just started college, several wealthy older men wanted to take care of her.” “But wasn’t it me who saw her potential, got her drunk, and sent her to Brother Declan’s bed?” “Otherwise, her husband wouldn’t be the young and handsome Brother Declan now.” “As her best friend, I made the right choice for her.” Listening to this, I was shocked and instinctively looked at Adeline. She was downing drink after drink, visibly upset. Lydia snatched her glass away, annoyed, “Adeline, shouldn’t you be thanking me now?” “If it weren’t for me, your fate would have been being used by rich men hundreds of times.” “Then, when you’re all worn out, marrying someone like Finn, a broke loser.” Adeline clenched her fists, biting her lip until it bled, yet she said nothing. I couldn’t bear it any longer and waved the diamond ring in my hand. “Do you really think I’m just a backup plan?” “I’m not interested in women who’ve been passed around! I don’t care for socialites.” “See this ring? I bought it when I got engaged to my fiancée. It’s part of a pair, worth 20 million!” As soon as I finished, the room burst into laughter. They looked at me like I was crazy. Only Adeline seemed genuinely upset, her face pale. Declan laughed so hard he doubled over, “As if you could afford a 20 million dollar ring?” “This thing’s barely worth 2000! And you tell your girlfriend it’s 20 million?” “Finn, what can I say about you? Ten years on, and you’re still so pathetic!” “Buying cheap stuff to fool girls!” Lydia mocked, moving closer to look at my hand. Suddenly, her expression changed! “Isn’t this the ‘Sky Star’ that’s been in the news?” “Mr. Finn bought this couple’s ring for 20 million at the auction.” “And then gave the women’s ring to the daughter of the Lee family!”

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Finn is a top-tier celebrity in the entertainment industry. He promised me that he would officially announce our relationship today at 5:20 PM. I checked Finn’s first trending topic right on time. It wasn’t the announcement I expected; instead, it was about him being caught on camera. The other person in the photo with him was a female artist named Daphne. Under the trending topics, she responded to netizens: “Thank you all for your blessings.” My hands trembled as I took a screenshot and sent it to Finn: “Is this what you meant by an official announcement?” I didn’t receive a reply until I had finished packing all my belongings. Finn finally responded: “Phoebe, please wait. I’ll explain everything.” 0 “Finn, let’s end things.” After sending the message, I tossed my phone aside and took one last look at the home Finn and I shared. We had been together for five years, but our relationship was always kept a secret. We were childhood friends, growing up together. After graduating from Media Arts College, we confirmed our relationship and embarked on our careers in the entertainment industry. At first, we were happy, taking on small roles. We didn’t earn much, but we were content. Then he participated in a variety show and skyrocketed to fame, becoming a top-tier celebrity. It’s easy to lose oneself in the allure of fame and fortune. He started having more and more women around him. Daphne wasn’t the first to be rumored with him. I gradually lost my sense of security. I begged him to make our relationship public on social media. I wanted to stand by his side openly. But his words made me feel unworthy of him, so I worked hard to prove myself. He said female artists need discipline to look good on camera. Even though I’m 170 cm, I maintained a weight of 90 pounds for years, afraid to eat more than one meal a day. Once he became famous, many paparazzi followed him. I lived cautiously with him. When visiting him on set, I had to wear a mask and cover myself completely. The snacks I made, he used to cheer Daphne up. It wasn’t until I saw the news of him and Daphne entering a residential building late at night that I realized how foolish I was. In his eyes, I was insignificant. I had questioned him about Daphne before. He said, “Daphne is on the rise in her career and has a bright future. Denying the rumors would greatly impact her.” “But you’re different. You’re just a non-notable performer who can’t make waves. Phoebe, don’t be so selfish.” I was wrong. I overestimated my place in his heart. I was preparing to leave when I heard the sound of the password being entered at the door. It opened. It was Finn. He looked at me with my luggage, frowning. Behind him were Daphne and their agents. 0

He actually brought Daphne back home. How ironic. When we bought this house, Finn said it would be our refuge, our little nest, with no outsiders allowed. On any other day, I would have been furious. But this time, I didn’t care. “Hello, I’m Daphne. And you must be Phoebe, right?” Daphne stepped forward, smiling at me. “Move,” I said, trying to maneuver my bags around them. “Don’t stand in the way.” “Where are you going?” Finn blocked my path, snatching my things and throwing them on the ground. “Phoebe, that night I was just reading the script with Daphne. Don’t overthink it.” He grabbed my hand. “I told you, I’ll explain everything.” I looked at him coldly. “Your explanation is bringing her home.” Daphne quickly approached, gently holding my hand. “Phoebe, don’t be mad. I’m not feeling well today, and Finn didn’t want me to catch a cold in the SUV, so he let me come up and rest.” “If it upsets you, I’ll leave right away.” She looked at Finn with teary eyes, appearing pitiful. I shook off her hand hard, and Daphne staggered backward, looking fragile. “Phoebe, what are you doing?” Finn glared at me, his tone harsh. He rushed over, catching Daphne from behind, helping her sit on the sofa, and poured her a cup of hot water. He used his own cup. “Don’t you have any sympathy? Being so rough? Daphne isn’t feeling well, I asked her to come.” Finn showed some impatience. Then he gently said to Daphne, “Daphne, just rest here. No one has the right to make you leave.” Watching them act like a couple made me agitated. I turned to leave. “Phoebe, stop right there!” 02 As Finn comforted Daphne, I was already at the door. “Finn, I told you, we’re done.” I said coldly. Finn seemed shocked by my indifference. “Don’t be like this. There are paparazzi outside. If you go out and get photographed, what will happen to Daphne?” Finn quickly caught up and pulled me back into the living room. Watching them, I suddenly felt exhausted. Daphne leaned on the sofa, holding Finn’s cup, smiling weakly at me. “Phoebe, I’m forced into this too.” Daphne’s soft voice chimed in again. “Replying to the netizens’ blessings was also Finn’s idea.” Her tone even had a hint of provocation. I took a deep breath, trying to hold back my emotions, but my eyes still reddened. “What about me? You clearly promised me we would go public today.” I said, my voice choking, looking at Finn. “It was an accident. It was the company’s decision. Can’t you let it go?” Finn’s impatience showed. “I came back to ask you to send some of the photos you took of me to Daphne as official announcement photos.” Hearing his words, my heart sank. I had a habit of documenting moments through photos. Finn would occasionally post my photos on social media. Fans called it a “girlfriend’s perspective.” Seeing my cold expression, he explained, “Our agents discussed it and found the online response pretty good. They want us to try being a promotional couple. It’s just promotional.” Hearing Finn say it’s just promotional, Daphne looked slightly displeased. “Phoebe, you should think about the bigger picture. Daphne and I are on the same level. You can’t ask Finn to give up his career for you, can you?” Her words were sincere, and to outsiders, it seemed like she was just promoting. “So, this is your decision too, right?” I stared at Finn, wanting to hear him say it himself. “Alright, it’s my fault this time.” He didn’t answer directly. “I’m about to join Director King’s film crew. I’ll make sure you get a small role.” Since Finn became famous, every time a tabloid rumor emerged, he would appease me by “getting” me an insignificant role in the crew, saying it was compensation. I was foolish before. I believed they were just acting. He would apologize, and I would easily forgive him. But not this time. “Finn, you’re heartless.” I broke free from Finn’s grip and left the house. 0

I wandered aimlessly on the street, eventually turning into a bar around the corner. I remember ordering almost every drink on the menu, sitting at the bar, drinking one glass after another. The next morning, I woke up in a hotel suite. I immediately checked myself. Thankfully, my clothes were intact. Then, a man walked in from outside the room. “Awake?” “Declan?” I looked at the attractive man in front of me, rubbing my eyes. “Miss Phoebe, we meet again.” Declan, who shot to fame just five years after debuting, is now a household name, an Oscar-winning actor, and Finn’s biggest rival. I met him by chance on a film set. He was the male lead, and I played a minor role. We were two people with no connection. Apparently, he graduated from the same college as me, but he majored in directing. Once, when some scandal about me broke online, I was stalked by an obsessive fan and had nowhere to go. He saved me, taking me on a high-speed drive to shake off the paparazzi. Afterward, I said I wanted to thank him. He joked, “Why not marry me?” I ignored him, and he slipped a note into my bag, asking me to consider being with him, promising a bright future. I didn’t respond, got out of the car, and told him I had a boyfriend who wasn’t much different from him. He didn’t contact me after that. After all, he’s Finn’s archenemy. As Finn’s girlfriend, how could I be friendly to Declan? Listening to Declan recount the previous night’s events, I blushed slightly. He said he found me on the street and brought me to the hotel to rest. And I jumped on the bed, ranting about how Finn was a jerk, even punching him a few times. “You had a breakup, Miss Phoebe.” Declan sat on the sofa, relaxing, looking at me with a slight smile. “So, how about it? Consider my offer? What I said before still stands.” My face turned red as a shrimp. I grabbed my things and fled the hotel. My phone was filled with missed calls from Finn, none of which I answered. I hurried home, planning to move my things to a new place. He told me he found me on the street and brought me to the hotel to rest. But I jumped onto the bed, cursing Finn as a jerk and even threw a few punches at him. “You’ve just gone through a breakup, Miss Phoebe,” Finn said, lounging back on the sofa with a lazy smile as he watched me. “So, what do you think? Are you considering my offer? What I mentioned last time still stands.” My face burned with embarrassment, and I grabbed my things and fled the hotel. My phone was filled with missed calls from Finn, none of which I answered. I rushed home, intending to pack my things and move to my new place. As soon as I opened the door, I saw Finn sitting on the sofa, his expression dark as he glared at me. “Phoebe, are you really breaking up with me over such a trivial matter?” Finn came over to block me. “I’ve explained it to you. What more do you want?” Seeing me not come home all night, a trace of panic finally appeared on his face. Trivial? Last night, after I left, I saw Finn escorting Daphne downstairs from my building, wrapped in my favorite plush blanket. He helped Daphne into the SUV, and Daphne even kissed him on the cheek. Then he got into the car as well, and the door closed, cutting off my view. Last night, I refused to give them the photos I took, but Daphne posted a picture of her and Finn on social media, captioned: “May we always be us.” Finn replied: “It’s great having you.” I stopped arguing, didn’t want to say another word, and with all my strength, moved out everything that was mine. When I left, Finn was still standing there, confused. He didn’t understand why this time, I meant it. Because my heart had died. 0

Maybe it was fate’s way of compensating me; while I was unlucky in love, I found success in my career. I actually landed the lead female role in Director King’s new drama. When my agent Vera brought me the good news, my first reaction was disbelief. Director King is known for being notoriously strict in the industry. It felt like my luck was turning… And since that day, Declan kept sticking around, claiming he saved me and wanted to take me on as his student. He said I was about to join Director King’s crew and needed to seriously hone my acting skills. I thought it made sense, plus Declan was handsome, wealthy, and fun to be around. The thing that troubled me the most was probably his frequent requests for me to be his girlfriend. But I knew deep down that to him, I was probably just a passing fancy. One day, while we were seriously rehearsing a scene, I said, let’s give it a try. I wanted to escape the shadow Finn cast over me. I once asked him why he liked me. He patted my head and wouldn’t tell me, saying he’d tell me the day I was willing to marry him. I didn’t believe he wanted to marry me. Soon, it was time to join the film crew. In two days, the filming ceremony was set to begin, and the actors had already checked into the hotel arranged by the crew. “Knock, knock, knock!” There was a knock at the door; it was Declan. As soon as I opened the door, Declan scooped me up and carried me straight into the room. He placed me on the bed, leaning in close, his lips inching toward mine. Just then, there was another untimely knock on the door. “Phoebe, open up!” I shivered at the sound; it was Finn. “You, hide quickly!” I shoved Declan off me, trying to get him to move. “Why should I?” Declan didn’t budge, “You two have broken up, and now I’m your boyfriend.” “No way, he can’t find out about us!” I was frantic. If Finn found out and spread the word about me and Declan as revenge, it would ruin me and affect Declan’s career. After all, he was a male star with zero tabloid rumors since his debut. “Then just make us public, okay?” Declan didn’t move a muscle, even leaning closer, leaving my mind blank. “No, no way.” With great effort, I pulled Declan off the bed and dragged him into the bathroom. I pretended not to see his angry and aggrieved look. “Be good. I’ll think about it.” Only then did he stop opposing me, closing the bathroom door. “Phoebe! Have you no shame? Hooking up with your lover in the film crew?” As soon as I opened the door, Finn stormed in angrily. “What are you doing here?” “Lover? Where?” I asked innocently, waving my hand. “I saw a guy walk into your room with my own eyes!” My heart skipped a beat. I hadn’t expected Finn to see Declan come into my room. Finn looked around my room but found no one. Finally, he walked to the bathroom door. My heart leapt into my throat. “You think I’m that easy to fool?” Finn sneered when I didn’t admit it, “Your lover must be hiding in the bathroom!”

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My breakup with my girlfriend was ugly. The year she loved me the most, I accepted $500,000 from her father to make her abort our child and disappear. She knelt before me, crying and begging me not to be so cruel. She gave birth to our child in secret and left the baby at my rented apartment. She said she would hate me for the rest of her life. Six years later, when we met again, she had found a boyfriend from a similar background and was about to get married. I came to her in a desperate state, hoping to borrow some money. She forced me to attend her wedding, wanting me to witness her marrying another man. She asked if I regretted my actions. What she didn’t know was that I had been raising our child alone. That child was now sick and dying. Six years after our breakup, I ran into Emily again during the lowest point of my life. It was at a class reunion, and no one expected Emily to show up. Someone joked, “Emily, you never keep in touch with us. Why did you suddenly decide to come to the reunion this year?” “Did you hear Jack was coming and still have feelings for him?” I sat in the corner, my back suddenly stiffening as I looked up to see Emily coldly staring at me. Everyone knew how much Emily used to love me. She was the daughter of a wealthy family, but she fell in love with me at first sight. That year, she cut ties with her family for me, giving up everything just to be with me. We lived in a tiny rented apartment, sharing instant noodles and porridge, living a hard but happy life. Every passionate night, we held hands and vowed to be together forever. Until later, when she got pregnant. Her parents despised my background and were furious. They approached me privately, offering me $500,000 to force her to abort our child and leave her. That day, Emily knelt before me, begging me not to abandon her. She pleaded over and over, crying: “Jack! Jack… I don’t want anything else, I just want you. Let’s work hard together, earn many times that $500,000, and build our own home, okay?” “I’m begging you, don’t leave me, and don’t abandon our child…” Later, Emily secretly went to a private hospital to give birth to our child. She left the baby in front of my rented apartment, separated by a small door. I heard Emily say: “Jack, I’ll hate you for the rest of my life.” “You’ll never have a good day again.”

No one knew how ugly things got when Emily and I broke up. Someone pushed me towards Emily, laughing and asking her: “Emily, you used to love Jack so much you’d give up your life for him. How did you two end up breaking up?” Everyone was urging us to get back together. Emily’s best friend glanced at me and smirked: “There are plenty of guys chasing after Emily. Who does Jack think he is? Being with him was already a mistake. You think Emily would still pine for him?” She said there was a man who had been pursuing Emily for three years. That man was richer than me, more handsome, and more suitable to be Emily’s boyfriend. Emily had been dating him for three years, and her best friend highly approved of their relationship. Apparently, they were about to get married. Everyone’s laughter died down, with only Emily’s best friend still smiling, inviting everyone to attend Emily’s wedding. She tossed the invitation at me, hitting my face before falling into my lap. I lowered my head and saw Emily’s name on the invitation, next to another man’s name. The man’s name was William. Just from his name, you could tell he was a gentle and sophisticated person, someone suitable for Emily. I thought, he surely wouldn’t make Emily sad. After six years apart, reuniting like this, knowing Emily was doing well was enough. Fighting back the pain in my heart, I looked up and forced a casual tone, saying: “Congratulations.” Emily stared at me intently. Hearing my congratulations, she suddenly smiled. For a moment, I thought I saw a glimpse of the past when she used to look at me with a smile and say, “Jack, we must get married.” Only this time, she said, “Jack, don’t come to the wedding.” “My husband would be upset if he saw you, and I’d be heartbroken if he’s upset.” I clutched the thin, red invitation card, stunned for a moment. Smiling and nodding, I softly said, “Okay.” That day, everyone said Emily seemed to have truly fallen out of love with me. No one could have imagined how deeply we once loved each other. In the end, she was getting married, but the groom wasn’t me. Everyone thought Emily would always wait for me. Everyone was curious about who this William was, wondering how he had captivated Emily so completely. Knowing Emily didn’t want to see me anymore, I left the reunion early. On my way home, a friend sent me a photo of William. William looked handsome in the picture. I heard he was very caring, the type of man Emily really liked. My friend asked me, “Jack, don’t you think William’s profile looks a lot like yours?” “Do you think Emily might still love you? Is this really how it ends between you two?” I let out a soft sigh, stayed silent for a long time, then smiled and said, “It doesn’t matter. I don’t care.” I didn’t want to get entangled with Emily anymore. I thought she would never know. Our daughter was sick and dying.

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My birthday happens to be the anniversary of his first love’s death. The man who always acts so polite and composed in front of others turned into a raging beast, his bloodshot eyes glaring at me as he screamed: “You wretch! Why wasn’t it you who died back then?” Later, I suffered a miscarriage, lost my mother, and was left with no one. I gave him what he wanted—a divorce. But then, he regretted it. In the pouring rain, he knelt at my feet, begging me to come back. I was pregnant. Clutching the ultrasound report in my hand, I felt no joy—only a heavy, sinking despair. This child was a mistake. I walked out of the hospital in a daze, my mind flashing back to that night three months ago. Three years into our marriage, William Blake and I had lived more like strangers than a couple. If he hadn’t gotten drunk that night—mumbling the name of his late first love, Sophie Winters—he would never have touched me. I still remember the way he kissed me so roughly, all while calling out Sophie’s name. The memory stung, and the sharp ringing in my ears forced me to press my hands against them, trying to block it out. My heart ached so much it felt like it was being torn apart. My gaze dropped to the report in my hands. What would William say if he knew I was pregnant? Would he be happy? I let out a bitter laugh and shook my head. No. He’d probably hate me even more—for daring to carry a child when his heart was still fixated on someone who was gone. “Mom, I want that cake!” “You don’t need cake. We’re having dinner at home!” The sound of a mother arguing with her child near a bakery caught my attention, and I stopped in my tracks. Through the glass window, I stared at the rows of beautiful cakes, suddenly remembering that today was my birthday. I used to look forward to my birthday every year. I thought back to our first year of marriage. Out of guilt, William had thrown me a grand birthday party. That night, he stayed until midnight, cutting the cake with me and even singing me a birthday song. Back then, Sophie was still alive. Smiling bitterly, I walked into the bakery, bought myself a cake, and carried it home. At the dining table, I lit the candles on the cake and sat there, waiting for William to return. But by the time the sun set and the clock struck nine, he still wasn’t home. Staring at the cake, I reached out and dipped my finger into the frosting, tasting it. It was sweet, but all I could feel was bitterness. The corner of my mouth twitched into a self-deprecating smile. Click— The sound of the door unlocking made me look up. William walked in, reeking of alcohol. His cheeks were flushed, his white shirt stained with red wine, his hair slightly messy. His eyes were glassy and unfocused. The moment he saw me, his brows furrowed, and his voice was cold: “What are you doing here?” He turned his head and glanced at the cake on the table. His eyes flickered, and I noticed his hands clench into fists. The wedding ring that should’ve been on his finger was gone. “Joanna! You did this on purpose, didn’t you?” He stormed toward me, his voice full of anger. The smell of alcohol was overwhelming, and I instinctively took a step back. With a wave of his hand, he knocked the cake off the table. The loud crash startled me, and I froze, staring at the shattered cake on the floor. It wasn’t just the cake that had been smashed—it felt like my heart had shattered, too. “You knew today was Sophie’s death anniversary! Why did you buy a cake? What were you trying to prove? And to think you used to be her best friend!” “You’re so cruel!” he shouted, his voice filled with venom. “She completely misjudged you. I never should’ve married you!” Maybe it was the alcohol, but his words cut deeper than usual. They were harsher, more honest. Fighting back tears, I replied calmly, “William, today is my birthday.” “So what?” His voice was icy, stabbing straight through me. “She’s dead, and you’re still alive.” “You’ll have countless birthdays, but Sophie will never have another one.” “It’s all my fault. I should’ve never come back for your stupid birthday last year. I should’ve stayed with her.” “It’s all my fault. It’s all my fault…” I let out a hollow laugh as his words echoed in my ears. All because last year, he’d come home to celebrate my birthday, he hadn’t been able to see Sophie one last time before she died. She had died on my birthday, of all days. Clutching my chest as the pain grew unbearable, I placed a hand on my slightly swollen belly, remembering the doctor’s warning: Don’t get upset. Avoid emotional stress. But how could I not? William’s cold eyes bore into me as he sneered: “Joanna, don’t you dare get your hopes up.” “A manipulative woman like you? I could never love you. Ever. If you want to celebrate your birthday, do it somewhere else. Get out of my sight.” With that, he slammed the door and left, leaving me standing there, utterly defeated. But you know what, William? I celebrate my birthday every year just so I can see you. All I wanted was to spend a little more time with you. Taking a deep breath, I looked down at my stomach and whispered to myself: “Joanna, he’ll never love you. He’ll never love your child…” “Ma’am, should I clean this up?” My housekeeper, May, spoke hesitantly, not even daring to breathe too loudly. I froze for a moment before replying, “Yes, clean it up.” I tossed the ultrasound report onto the melted frosting. “And throw this away too.”

I woke up the next morning with a splitting headache. Reaching into the drawer, I grabbed a few pills and swallowed them dry before picking up my phone, which had been vibrating non-stop. “Hello?” “Joanna! Finally! I’ve been trying to reach you,” a frantic voice said on the other end. “Your mom suddenly went into shock. Her surgery has to be moved up, but I can’t get in touch with Dr. Blake. Is he home? Can you get him here right away?” My mind went blank. Throwing on a coat, I raced downstairs, searching every room in the house, but William was nowhere to be found. I called him over and over again, even as I jumped into a cab and started going to all the places he might be. Ten calls. No answer. I arrived at the hospital, and a nurse ran up to me, her face full of worry. “Joanna! Where’s Dr. Blake?” My lips trembled, and my face went pale. “He… he’s not here yet?” “Where’s my mom? I want to see her! Take me to her right now!” “Please, someone else can do the surgery!” The nurse hesitated, guilt flashing across her face. “All the other doctors are in surgery right now. Your mom… it all happened so suddenly.” My heart pounded in my chest as dread consumed me. Through the glass of the emergency room, I could see two doctors trying desperately to save my mom. She lay there, completely still, a breathing tube in her mouth. She looked so weak, so fragile—it broke me. Just yesterday, she’d texted me to wish me a happy birthday. Now, tears streamed down my face as I pounded on the glass. “Please! Save her! She’s all I have left!” “Joanna, calm down! Please!” The nurse grabbed me, trying to pull me away. Suddenly, the door to the operating room burst open, and William rushed in, sweat dripping down his face. He was already wearing a surgical cap, moving with urgency as he entered the room. He picked up the scalpel, but before he could make the first incision, the heart monitor let out a terrible, high-pitched sound. Beep— The faint hope I’d been clinging to disappeared in an instant. On the monitor, the once-erratic lines flattened into a single, endless line. That line was the wall that now separated me and my mom forever. “Mom!” I collapsed to the floor, clutching my chest as if the grief would suffocate me. I felt something wet against my left hand, which was resting on the ground. Looking down, I saw bright red blood trailing down my legs and pooling on the floor. “Joanna! Blood—there’s blood!” the nurse screamed. A sharp pain shot through my body, and everything went black.

William Blake, Sophie Winters, and I all met in high school. But unlike me, William and Sophie had known each other since they were kids. Sophie, delicate and perpetually ill, was like porcelain. Everyone thought they were the perfect couple. But their love story didn’t end like the fairy tales. When William graduated from college, Sophie broke up with him. He waited outside her house for several nights, hoping she’d change her mind. But she didn’t. She eventually collapsed and was rushed to the hospital. I’ll never forget the way William clung to her hand, his voice trembling as if he was terrified she would disappear. “Sophie, please don’t leave me. I love you. I went to med school for you. Please, just give me more time—I’ll figure out how to cure you. I promise.” Sophie, struggling to stay awake, gently wiped the tears from his eyes. “William, I know my body. I don’t have much time left.” “I know your parents don’t approve of us. I know they’re pressuring you to get married.” “Promise me… promise me you’ll be with Joanna. I know she likes you.” Hearing my name fall from her lips, I froze. It was as if a deeply buried secret had been dragged into the light. I felt exposed, raw. Panic bubbled inside me, and I wanted nothing more than to disappear. I had never expected Sophie to notice the feelings I had tried so hard to hide. From the moment I met William in high school, I had secretly fallen for him—this boy who didn’t belong to me. I envied Sophie. She had his love, his attention, his unfailing gentleness. In the end, she chose to give him to me. But in doing so, she pushed me into a pit I would never escape from. I can still hear her voice, her trembling words as she held my hand. “Joanna, promise me you’ll love William for me.” There was a pleading look in her eyes, and I thought about the years I had spent quietly yearning for him. So I promised her. “Don’t worry, Sophie. I’ll take care of him.” But I regret it now. I should’ve listened to you, Mom. I should’ve never reached for something that wasn’t mine. It’s my fault. It’s my fault you’re gone.

The sharp smell of alcohol in the air stung my nose as I slowly opened my eyes. Looking around, I realized I was alone in the hospital room. “You’re awake?” The curtain was pulled back, and there he was—William Blake. His face was pale, his exhaustion evident. “Where’s my mom?” I asked calmly, my voice steady, but the question made his pupils tremble. He avoided my gaze and lowered his head. “Where is she? William, where is my mom?” I sat up abruptly, grabbing his shirt collar, my voice breaking as I shouted at him. “Joanna, you need to rest,” he said, his voice soft but heavy. “You need to recover so you can prepare for the funeral. Your mom… she’s gone.” Slap! The sound of my hand striking his face echoed through the room. “William Blake! You’re shameless!” I screamed, tears streaming down my face. “Where were you? I called you ten times! Ten times! Why didn’t you answer? Where the hell were you?” “I…” He opened his mouth but stopped, unable to finish the sentence. Then it hit me, and I laughed bitterly. “You were with her, weren’t you?” His body stiffened, his eyes wide with shock as he stared at me. “You think I don’t know?” I asked, tears blurring my vision. “Do you know what people think of us? They think we’re a happy couple, newly married and in love.” “But I know the truth.” My voice cracked as I continued, “You bought a house for Sophie, didn’t you? You decorated it like it was your dream home with her.” “All those nights you didn’t come home—you were staying there, weren’t you?” “Why, William? Why would you do this to me? You should’ve never married me!” “Give me back my mom! Give her back to me!” I pounded my fists against his chest, sobbing uncontrollably, my cries so loud they drew the attention of the nurses. His bloodshot eyes stayed on me the entire time, and he grabbed my wrists tightly, refusing to let go. “And what about you, Joanna?” he said, his voice low and trembling. “Why didn’t you tell me you were pregnant?” “If you had told me…” I let out a hollow laugh, looking up as tears rolled down my cheeks. “And what difference would it have made, William? Did you forget what you said to me yesterday?” “You told me not to have any delusions. Well, I listened to you.” “The baby’s gone,” I said, my voice cold. “Isn’t that better for you?” “You…” His brows furrowed as his grip on my wrist tightened, the pressure leaving red marks on my skin. Finally, he let go, his voice softening. “I’m sorry.” It was the first time I’d ever heard him apologize. “I’m sorry, Joanna. This is all my fault.” I stared down at the damp bedsheets under my knees, refusing to look at him. “I’m tired, William,” I said quietly. “Loving you is exhausting. Let’s get a divorce.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “295794”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #浪漫Romance #校园School #励志Inspiring #重生Reborn