Author: Momo Chan

My wife, Chloe, rushed back to work even before her maternity leave was over. Out of 30 days a month, she was working overtime for 29. She’d come home well past midnight, every single night. So busy that she barely had time for our one-month-old daughter. I couldn’t take it anymore. The moment Chloe treated her colleagues to milk tea, I demanded a divorce. Everyone was stunned. “Are you out of your mind? She just bought some colleagues milk tea, and you’re divorcing her over that?” Chloe was furious. She grabbed the baby bottle and slammed it against my face. Bright red blood trickled down my forehead. But I didn’t even flinch. I slapped the printed divorce papers onto the table in front of her. “Sign it!” She knew exactly what kind of ‘tea’ she was sharing with that male colleague! Today was our daughter’s hundredth day. Chloe had thrown a lavish celebration for our daughter’s first milestone. All our friends, family, classmates, and colleagues were invited to celebrate. The lively atmosphere instantly turned dead silent because of my sudden announcement. “Declan, I’ve just been busy with work lately, unable to look after the baby.” “It’s not a big deal. We can just hire a nanny, and it’ll be fine.” “Do you really have to bring up a divorce over me treating people, in front of all these guests?” Chloe’s eyes were wide, filled with disbelief. Without even looking, she ripped the divorce papers to shreds. “Yes, I do.” I admitted openly, facing Chloe’s accusation. Everyone stared at me in shock. Everyone knew that Chloe and I had been together since high school, from innocent crushes to husband and wife. Married for five years, we had always been as loving as we were on day one. No one understood why a couple once so deeply in love would suddenly come to such a public divorce. Not even Mr. and Mrs. Vance, Chloe’s parents. “Just because Chloe bought her colleagues drinks, you want a divorce?” Mr. Vance asked, bewildered. I corrected him. “She bought them milk tea.” Mr. Vance frowned, not understanding why I felt the need to emphasize that detail. “Milk tea is just a drink, what’s the difference? When did you become so petty?” My face was calm. “There is a difference.” “You…” Mr. Vance choked on his words, glaring at me, speechless for a long moment. Seeing this, Mrs. Vance snapped, her voice low and angry. “Whether it’s milk tea or any other drink, how much could it cost?” “My daughter suffered to give you a child, and she works hard managing the company every day. Does she not even have the right to spend such a small amount of money?” Even my own mom urged me to stop making a scene. Everyone looked at me with strange eyes, whispering and pointing. But I couldn’t be bothered to explain. I pulled out another set of divorce papers and handed them to Chloe. “This divorce is happening. If you don’t want us to make a bigger mess, just sign it.” Chloe’s eyes welled up. “Declan, do you really have to humiliate me in front of all these people?” “I admit, I’ve neglected you and our daughter recently because of company issues, and I’ve overburdened your mom. But I did it for our family!” “Okay, how about this? I promise you, from now on, I’ll prioritize you and the baby, alright?” Chloe’s voice was distinctly tearful, a desperate plea. But I remained unmoved. “Declan!” Chloe started to cry, reaching for my hand. “Don’t touch me!” “You’re disgusting!” As if I’d touched something foul, I instinctively recoiled, shaking her hand off with force and stepping back two paces. My eyes held undisguised revulsion. Chloe, caught off guard, stumbled and fell to the floor. Tears streamed down her face, her eyes filled with disbelief.

I used to hate seeing Chloe cry. But now, looking at her tears again, I felt no pity, only utter annoyance. Everyone’s expressions changed, and condemnatory glares were aimed at me. Mr. Vance let out a heavy, cold snort. Mrs. Vance’s already grim face darkened further. Hymen, Chloe’s assistant, carefully helped her up from the floor, then pointed at me furiously. “Declan, are you even a man?” “Ms. Vance suffered in labor for three whole days and nights to give you a child. She had a severe hemorrhage and nearly died on the operating table. It’s only been three months, and you’ve forgotten all that?” “After giving birth, she returned to the company without even finishing her maternity leave. She manages the company by day and looks after the baby by night. She’s poured her heart and soul into this family.” “As a husband, not only do you lack sympathy, but you want to divorce her over such a trivial matter?” “Let everyone here judge – aren’t you going too far?” Hymen angrily accused me, righteous indignation in his voice. Hearing this, I just looked at Chloe, who was still leaning against Hymen. “Right, so dedicated. Rushed back to the company right after giving birth.” “I’d also like to know, who exactly is at the company that you’d abandon our child like that?” A flicker of panic crossed Chloe’s eyes. “Declan, what are you talking about?” “I did all this for our family.” “Or are you just like other men, disgusted with my post-pregnancy body, thinking I’m not pretty anymore?” By the end, Chloe burst into tears, looking utterly wronged. “Pfft! What a jerk!” Someone in the crowd couldn’t help but curse out loud. I didn’t care. “Think whatever you want. Either way, I’m divorcing you today.” Chloe froze, completely unprepared for my absolute resolve. “Declan, don’t you dare push your luck!” “What exactly has my daughter done to you to make you upset everyone like this?” “Don’t forget, you were on your knees begging me, promising to love and protect her for life, that’s why I agreed to let her marry you.” “Chloe has been dedicated these past few years. Even if she hasn’t contributed ‘merit,’ she’s certainly put in the ‘effort!’” Mr. Vance finally lost his temper, his voice sharp with anger. Chloe’s tears flowed even faster at his words. “Declan, tell me the truth. Do you have someone else?” It was like water hitting hot oil; the scene instantly erupted. “Oh my God! That’s disgusting!” “His wife just had a baby, and he can’t wait to cheat? Total scum, a complete jerk!” In an instant, everyone’s gaze shifted, all seeing me as a monster. Everyone cursed me as a cheating jerk. Mrs. Vance dramatically rolled up her sleeves. “Don’t worry, honey, Mom’s here. Let’s see who dares to bully you!” Watching their agitated expressions, my own remained calm. “Say whatever you want. I just want a divorce.”

Seeing that I was determined, Mrs. Vance slapped her thigh, wiping tears and wailing dramatically. “It’s over, it’s over! He’s been bewitched by some hussy!” “My poor daughter, why is your life so miserable? You married such a scoundrel!” Hymen was even more enraged. “Ms. Vance was truly blind to marry a man worse than an animal!” “Today, for Ms. Vance, I’m going to teach you a lesson, you ungrateful piece of trash!” With that, Hymen rolled up his sleeves and lunged at me, throwing a punch. I shifted slightly, easily dodging his attack. Turning, I grabbed his wrist, twisting it just enough for Hymen to wince in pain. My eyes were sharp and cold as I stared at him. “What do you think you are?” “A mere assistant, daring to meddle in our marriage?” With that, I released his wrist and landed a hard punch on his nose. “Ah—” Hymen clutched his nose, letting out a pained shriek like a slaughtered pig. The next second, bright red liquid seeped through his fingers and dripped onto the floor. “Blood!” Someone gasped. “Declan, are you crazy? How can you just hit someone?” Chloe shoved me fiercely, rushing to check Hymen’s injuries. The concern in her eyes almost overflowed. I sneered. “What? You feel bad for him?” “Where was all this concern when he was about to hit me?” Chloe’s breath hitched, her eyes darting away, momentarily speechless. “Besides, he deserved it. I hit him because he deserved it.” Under Chloe’s incredulous gaze, I smiled, articulating each word clearly. “Declan, when did you become so unreasonable?” “This is between us. Can you please not involve innocent people?” Chloe frowned deeply, her eyes filled with unconcealed disappointment. I couldn’t help but scoff. “Innocent?” “Ask him if he’s innocent.” Hymen’s face changed, but he quickly lowered his head. “I’m sorry, Ms. Vance, it’s my fault.” “I shouldn’t have spoken out of turn. I overstepped and upset Mr. Vance. Please don’t blame him.” Hymen looked at Chloe, his eyes as innocent as a pathetic puppy. “No, I don’t blame you. It’s my fault for getting you involved!” Chloe carefully wiped the blood from Hymen’s face, her voice so soft it could have melted. Not wanting to see them being so intimate, I slammed the divorce papers in front of Chloe. “If you don’t want him to get another beating, sign these papers now. Otherwise, I’ll beat him every time I see him.” Before my words even finished, Chloe exploded. Smack! A sharp slap landed on my face. “Are you insane? Hymen is just my assistant! What does our business have to do with him?” My cheek burned, my eardrums buzzed, and I tasted iron in my mouth.

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My nominal uncle’s first love took her own life the day I returned home. My family blamed me, every single one of them, except for Damon. He gently stroked my hair. “It’s not Autumn’s fault. Serena was just too fragile.” Later, I married him, as I’d always yearned to. Eight years into our marriage, I finally got pregnant. Overjoyed, I handed him the ultrasound report. A rare smile touched his lips. But the very next second, a searing pain ripped through me. Blood, so much blood, gushed from me uncontrollably. That’s when it hit me. He had poisoned the soup he just fed me. He had been waiting for me to die this whole time. He had never, not once, believed in me. Damon lit a cigarette, his gaze icy as he watched me. “Stop pretending. Serena suffered a thousand times more than you did back then.” I died from a massive hemorrhage. When I opened my eyes again, I was eighteen years old, standing at the grand entrance of the Hayes mansion. This time, I decided to fulfill everyone’s desires.

“Miss Autumn, do you… still need to freshen up?” Hearing Mr. Jenkins, the butler’s voice, I truly, fully realized that I was back. Snapping out of my daze, I quickly shook my head. “No, thank you. Let’s just go see Mom and Dad.” In my previous life, I was so nervous arriving at the Hayes mansion that I asked Mr. Jenkins to take me to the powder room. On the way back, I got lost, and stumbled upon Serena in a provocative negligee, sitting on a bare-chested Damon’s lap. Serena and I were both startled. She was terrified I’d tell on her and get her kicked out of the Hayes household. So that very evening, she threw herself from the third-story window. I kept my head down, hurrying behind Mr. Jenkins, even quickening my pace. As long as I didn’t pass that spot, Serena wouldn’t jump. But I hadn’t anticipated running straight into Damon. One hand in his pocket, he slowly exhaled a puff of smoke, the other resting heavily on my shoulder. “You’re here.” Just two words, but they hit me like a lightning bolt. Damon Blackwood, a close family friend I’d always called Uncle Damon, was like an adopted son to the Hayes, ruthless and aristocratic, yet detached. At this exact time in my previous life, it was my first formal meeting with him. He had just returned from overseas, wearing a perfectly tailored shirt and trousers. He’d only given me, the suddenly recognized niece, a polite nod. His gaze had been as indifferent as if he were looking at a new piece of furniture in a corner. It was nothing like this. Nothing like this intense, complex stare he was fixating on me now. It felt like an invisible hand squeezed my heart, stealing my breath. He had been reborn too. That realization shattered all my attempts at composure. I lowered my gaze, my nails digging deep into my palms. Every fiber of my being screamed to confront him, to demand answers. But rather than tearing him apart for another lifetime, I’d rather give myself a new one. I gave a gentle nod, then forced a calm demeanor, trying to move past him. He seemed surprised by my reaction, the fingers on my shoulder tightened for a fraction of a second, the pressure almost crushing my bones. But the next moment, he abruptly let go, as if I were something vile. I didn’t dare to linger, quickening my steps towards the sounds of laughter. Soon, we arrived at the brightly lit small living room. My father, Robert Hayes, was sitting on the sofa, reading a newspaper. He looked up at our footsteps. He was nearing fifty, his brows etched with the shrewdness of a seasoned businessman. My mother, Eleanor Hayes, stood by a flower stand, meticulously pruning a blooming orchid. The scene before me, was almost identical to my first time stepping into this room in my previous life. “Sir, Ma’am, Miss Autumn has arrived,” Mr. Jenkins reported respectfully. My mother turned at the sound, the gentle smile on her face not yet fully formed. It was interrupted by a faint rustle from the stairs. A soft, melodious female voice drifted down. “Damon, my head’s spinning, could you give me a hand?” I looked up. Damon had appeared halfway down the stairs, I hadn’t even noticed. His back was to the living room’s light, his face shadowed, his expression unreadable. Serena Hayes leaned against him, one hand delicately resting on his forearm. She wore a simple, off-white dress, her long hair cascading down, face pale, with a lingering hint of redness around her eyes. A picture of delicate frailty, designed to elicit pity. But as she, aided by Damon, descended the stairs step by step, her gaze subtly brushed over me, and a fleeting hint of mockery, like an ice-cold needle, pricked me deep in her eyes. She wasn’t truly weak. That look, it was clearly assessment and calculation, a condescending… confirmation. Damon carefully helped her to the living room. My father immediately rose, his voice filled with concern. “Serena, what are you doing down here? You should be resting if you’re not feeling well.” Serena gently shook her head, her gaze, however, settling on me, who everyone else seemed to ignore. Her pale lips curved slightly, “I heard my sister was coming home today… How could I possibly stay in bed and not greet her?” She paused, her gaze wrapping around me with an innocent cruelty. “Autumn, we finally meet again. This time… you really must stay, won’t you?” This time. Those two words, she spoke them lightly, but they struck my heart like a hammer. Her too. My breath hitched. She had also returned.

Serena’s words were a key, unlocking the most painful box deep within my memory. I steadied my breathing, lowered my lashes, forcing the storm raging within me back behind my eyes. This time, I wouldn’t fall into your trap. Dinner unfolded in a strange atmosphere. Serena commanded all attention, speaking softly, occasionally furrowing her brow in a way that seemed playful and sweet. Damon’s gaze barely left her. Just like in my previous life, he gently blew on her soup to cool it, his tenderness overflowing. But he fed her nourishing broth, and he fed me poison. Eight years of deep affection hadn’t earned me a shred of his true heart. My father and mother’s attention was entirely on her, offering me only a few perfunctory questions. After dinner, my mother seemed to finally remember my presence, speaking with an apologetic tone: “Autumn, your room is on the second floor, right next to Damon’s. It’ll be convenient for you to…” “Mom,” I softly interrupted, looking up amidst everyone’s surprised stares, my voice calm yet firm. “The guest room is fine. I just got home, don’t want to inconvenience Damon.” The air solidified for a moment. Damon lifted his eyelids to look at me, his eyes unreadable, cigarette ash silently falling from his fingers. He clearly hadn’t expected me to refuse so decisively, to be so eager to draw a line between us. My mother looked a little awkward: “But… the guest room is a bit simple.” “It’s fine, I’m used to simplicity.” I managed a faint smile, no longer looking at anyone. “I’ve been traveling all day, I’m a bit tired and just want to rest.” Eventually, I was assigned the smallest guest room at the end of the hallway. The room was indeed simple, but clean. I locked the door and leaned against the cold wood. Only then did I allow myself to drop all pretense, sliding wearily to the floor. Late at night, everything was silent. But a knock suddenly echoed. An alarm blared in my mind. I walked to the door but didn’t open it. “Who is it?” “Autumn, it’s me.” Serena’s voice came through the door, laced with a hint of a smile. “Can’t sleep, thought I’d chat with you.” I remained silent. She didn’t seem to mind, lowering her voice further as she continued. “Didn’t expect this, did you? We both came back. Last life, I miscalculated, really thought I’d just fall and die… Lucky you, you got to live for eight extra years.” My heart clenched, a sharp, piercing ache. “But,” She chuckled, “Damon, he took revenge for me later, didn’t he? I bet it was quite spectacular.” Her tone was filled with malicious speculation and delight. I clenched my fists, my nails digging deep into my flesh. The pain I had deliberately tried to forget surged through me again. Outside the door, her voice suddenly moved closer to the crack. “Autumn, this lifetime, Damon is mine, from beginning to end. You can’t steal him, and you don’t deserve him.” With that, her footsteps receded. But I felt a strange unease. I rushed to the window, yanking the curtains open. On the balcony of the neighboring guest room, Serena, in a thin nightgown, was standing barefoot on the narrow ledge of the railing! The night wind ruffled her long hair, and in her hand, she held a fruit knife, its blade glinting coldly in the moonlight. And on her pale wrist, a stark, crimson cut had already appeared! “Serena!” I cried out. She turned at the sound, giving me a twisted, pathetic smile. Then, she leaned back. “BANG!” My room door was flung open with brute force. Damon stormed in like a wild beast, “Autumn!” He roared, his eyes blazing with undisguised hatred. “I knew it! You came back too, and you’re still up to no good! You want to drive her to her death again, don’t you?!” He didn’t even give me a chance to explain. The next second, a stinging slap landed hard on my face. “SMACK!” The sharp sound exploded in the room. My head snapped to the side, my cheek instantly burning. My ears rang, and a metallic taste filled my mouth. The disgust in his eyes was sickeningly familiar. It was the same look he’d given me when I was dying in my previous life. Then, without hesitation, he turned and rushed towards the adjacent balcony. I clutched my stinging cheek, sliding down the cold wall, my numb heart aching violently. In my past life, I had tried to explain to Damon countless times, but he had only ever nodded, expressionless. “It’s all in the past, no need to dwell on it.” Outside the window, Serena’s weak sobs and Damon’s frantic reassurances drifted in. Soon, ambulance sirens wailed. Downstairs in the living room, lights blazed. My father’s face was ashen, my mother’s eyes red from crying. Damon left with the ambulance for the hospital. My father looked at me with exhaustion and disappointment, as if I were an unavoidable burden. He rubbed his temples, then finally spoke in a cold voice, “Autumn, things have been… unsettling around here. You just got back, you might not be adapting well.” He paused, then continued, “Liam Kingston, the eldest son of the Kingston family, is accomplished, and the Kingstons are interested in an alliance. You… should meet him. Settling down early would be good for you, and for everyone.” Liam Kingston? The notorious playboy, always surrounded by rumors? A cold despair settled in my chest. Yet, I suddenly felt a clarity, and a bitter amusement. In my previous life, they had always favored Serena, the adopted daughter. Fine. This time, I’d give them what they wanted. I lifted my swollen face, meeting my father’s gaze, my voice calm, without a ripple of emotion. “Alright, I’ll meet him.”

My meeting with Liam Kingston was arranged at a quiet, upscale Italian restaurant. I had prepared myself to deal with a flippant rich kid. But to my surprise, the man who walked through the door was refined and understated. When he saw me, he seemed even more nervous than I was, his ears tinted crimson, his eyes a little evasive, not at all like the seasoned veteran of flirtation the rumors painted him to be. “Miss Hayes… hello, I’m Liam Kingston.” He stood up, pulling out my chair for me, his movements slightly stiff but sincere. Throughout dinner, the initial awkwardness quickly dissolved. He spoke eloquently, with unique insights, knowledgeable in both art and business. Occasionally, if I looked at him a bit too long, he would blush slightly, shy as a college student fresh out of school. The rumors and reality were worlds apart. “I thought…” I began, choosing my words carefully. “You thought I was an uneducated playboy?” Liam finished my sentence, smiling wryly. “My family’s business is complex, and my father hasn’t been well. Some people… they prefer to see me as a good-for-nothing.” He didn’t elaborate, but the meaning was clear. When we parted, he stood by his car, looking at me very earnestly: “Miss Hayes, I… I like you very much.” “If you don’t object, I’ll have my parents formally propose to the Hayes family tomorrow, may I?” His directness and solemnity surprised me. Looking at his sincere and slightly anxious eyes, I nodded: “Yes.” It was late when I returned to the Hayes mansion. I tiptoed upstairs, but as I passed the master bedroom area, I heard sounds that made my cheeks burn coming from a slightly ajar door. A mix of a woman’s soft moans and a man’s heavy breathing. It was Damon’s room. And that female voice… it was Serena. My footsteps faltered. My blood seemed to turn to ice instantly, then rapidly warmed, leaving only a dull numbness. Just as I was about to quietly leave, the door creaked open from inside. Damon was only loosely wrapped in a bathrobe, his belt undone, his chest still bore faint, tell-tale red marks. He saw me outside the door, a flicker of surprise in his eyes, which quickly turned back to casual nonchalance. He gently closed the door behind him, shielding the intimate scene within. “You saw?” He lit a cigarette, leaning against the doorframe. “Serena and I are together now. Let’s just put the past behind us. This time, I’ll protect her, truly.” He exhaled a smoke ring, looking at me through the haze, his voice low. “Autumn Hayes, just give up. I apologize for the past, but please don’t upset Serena anymore.” A corner of my heart twinged, but it was quickly enveloped by a wave of coldness. I met his gaze, a calm smile on my face, and spoke in a cold voice. “Damon, you’re overthinking it. Who you’re with, what you do, it has nothing to do with me.” My composure clearly angered him. His eyes darkened. He suddenly stepped forward, grabbing my wrist, his grip so tight my bones ached. “Nothing to do with you? Autumn Hayes, who are you trying to fool? I’m telling you, Serena and I are already engaged.” He stared into my eyes, each word landing like a blow, as if to embed itself in my heart. “The wedding is in three days.” He suddenly forced a humorless smile. “Considering what we once had… if you still feel anything from back then, then come witness my happiness for yourself.” He was testing me, retaliating. He was using this method to flay the last shred of my dignity. I yanked my hand free, leaving distinct finger marks on my wrist. I stepped back, creating distance, my smile still serene. “No need, Damon. Your happiness has nothing to do with me. Let’s just go our separate ways and leave each other in peace.” With that, I turned and walked away, not looking back at his expression. The next day, my father indeed called me into his study, his face beaming as he informed me that the Kingston family had formally proposed. The wedding was set for three days later, a rare auspicious day. But then his expression clouded: “Autumn, there’s something… Serena and Damon’s wedding is also set for the same day.” “You know, Damon has been like a son to us for years, and Serena, our dear Serena, has always been a delicate flower… having two daughters get married from the Hayes household, it would be a bit much to have two grand affairs.” “So, your wedding… it would be best if it were a bit more private, simpler. Would that be alright with you?” His tone was consultative, but his eyes held no room for dissent. I gripped the beautiful invitation from the Kingston family, looking at Liam Kingston’s name, so different from what I remembered. I smiled faintly: “Of course, I have no objections.”

The night before the wedding, Serena knocked on my door again. This time, she didn’t even bother to feign politeness, a victorious, stinging smile playing on her lips, as she leaned directly against the doorframe. “Autumn, you’re getting married tomorrow. I’ve come to bring you a wedding gift.” She kept her voice low, just for the two of us to hear. “You know, lately, I’ve been having dreams… interesting dreams.” She tilted her head, her gaze like a poisoned needle. “Dreams about you having a baby once? Too bad… you couldn’t keep it. How did that feel? Pretty exhilarating?” A deafening roar filled my head. My entire body went numb. My blood ran cold, then surged back through my veins, frantic and burning, making my limbs tremble violently. I stared at her, my nails digging deep into my palms, almost drawing blood. She knew! How could she know so precisely?! “You…” My voice was bone dry. “How did I know?” Serena giggled, her eyes cold and cruel. “It doesn’t matter. What matters is, Sister, you’d better be sensible this lifetime, and stay gone in the Kingston family, don’t come back and be an eyesore.” She stepped closer, almost pressing her lips to my ear. “So what if you’re the biological one? Damon and Mom and Dad, their eyes are only on me!” “If you dare to come back, or touch anything of mine again… I won’t mind helping Damon again. Helping him… kill you with his own hands.” With that, she turned and sashayed away like a peacock displaying its plumage. Leaving me frozen at the doorway, cold all over, my stomach churning, threatening to spill its contents. That familiar despair, once again, choked me. The next day, before dawn, the Hayes household was bustling. All for Serena’s extravagant wedding. I packed my few belongings; there wasn’t much to sort through. Stepping out of the guest room, I passed the living room, and my footsteps involuntarily halted. In the nascent morning light, Damon stood before the grand floor-to-ceiling mirror in the living room, undergoing final adjustments from the tailor. He wore a perfectly tailored black tuxedo, his profile sharply defined in the soft light, still the alluring man from my memories. Memories flooded back uncontrollably. In my previous life, he had been like this too, in a well-fitted suit, walking towards me amidst everyone’s blessings. Then, there was a smile in his eyes, as he gently placed the ring on my finger. I had once believed that was the sum total of happiness, even after learning it was an eight-year-long, premeditated revenge. But in that moment, walking towards him in my white gown, the pounding heart and shy anticipation, those had been real. A dull ache, a belated one, spread through my chest. It wasn’t love, not hate, but a somber elegy for a past I’d been foolish enough to believe in. He seemed to catch sight of me in the mirror, his movements pausing slightly, then he turned around. The tailor discreetly retreated. Damon’s gaze settled on me, assessing my simple dress. His brow furrowed almost imperceptibly, then smoothed out. “Where are you off to?” He took two steps closer to me, carrying a crisp, unfamiliar scent. He suddenly raised a hand, slowly adjusting his tie, his eyes fixed on me, “Does this look good?” His voice was low, his breath caressing my face. Once, I would have flushed crimson. But now, I only felt a sickening chill. I met his gaze, forcing a calm smile. “It looks very good. Congratulations, Damon, on finally getting what you wanted, on marrying the woman you adore.” My voice was clear and steady, like I was uttering the most commonplace blessing. “I wish you and Serena a lifetime of happiness, and many children.” His pupils seemed to constrict. He stared at me, a complex emotion I couldn’t decipher churning in his deep-set eyes. He pulled at the corner of his mouth, saying nothing more, but that look, it was unnervingly heavy. I averted my gaze, no longer looking at him, and pulled my lightweight suitcase, walking step by step towards the grand entrance of the Hayes mansion. Behind me, the prosperity and hypocrisy that had held my two lifetimes of blood and tears, were finally left behind. At the entrance, a discreet yet undeniably luxurious motorcade from the Kingston family awaited. Liam stood by a car, his eyes lighting up when he saw me. He quickly came forward, took my luggage, and opened the car door for me, his movements careful, filled with tenderness. “Let’s go home,” he murmured, his ears slightly red. I settled into the car, and through the window, I took one last look at the carved gates of the Hayes mansion. Just then, another motorcade, grand and boisterous, arrived. Adorned with flowers, ribbons, and boisterous laughter – it was Damon and Serena’ grand wedding procession. The two motorcades passed each other at the Hayes mansion’s entrance. One, silent and understated, drove towards an unknown, yet perhaps peaceful, future. The other, loud and festive, rushed towards public adoration. I didn’t look back, and in my heart, I whispered. “Damon, we’ll never meet again.”

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My wife rejected the poor girl I wanted to sponsor for not being good enough. She insisted we sponsor a cheerful, handsome male student instead. The result? That student ended up in my house, sleeping in my bed. Even my daughter, who was never close to me, started to look more and more like him. I didn’t expose them. Instead, I smiled and transferred my company to that vibrant young man. It was buried under fifty million in debt. “Liam, it is all yours now.” David POV When I walked through the door, I was carrying a limited-edition Elsa dress for my daughter and an elegant necklace for my wife, Eleanor. I’d squeezed a week’s work in New York into four days and taken the red-eye flight home, all to be back for the weekend and surprise them. I pictured Eleanor’s delighted surprise, imagined three-year-old Chloe running into my arms. A smile touched my lips before I could stop it. Chloe had never been very warm with me. She didn’t look like me, either. I have hooded eyes and a strong nose-a rougher kind of face. Chloe has huge, liquid eyes, porcelain skin, and a delicate chin. When friends visited, they’d often chuckled.”Well, your wife’s genes won this round. Total upgrade.” I just took it as a joke. After all, Eleanor was famously beautiful; it was a good thing for our daughter to resemble her mother. But Chloe would only sweetly call me “Dad” when she wanted toys or pocket money. The rest of the time, she looked at me with a hesitant, almost timid gaze. Eleanor said it was because I traveled so much for work, which was why I made an effort to return early this time. I shook my head, pushing these unsettling thoughts from my mind. The master bedroom door was ajar, letting out a sliver of light. I changed my shoes, about to push the door open and give Eleanor a hug, when I heard her voice from inside the bedroom. “Chloe, look at the camera, say Daddy.” I looked up, disbelieving. Say Daddy? Wasn’t I right outside the door? Immediately after, Chloe’s tender voice rang out, filled with a joy I’d never heard before. “Daddy! Daddy, look, Mom bought me new pajamas, aren’t they pretty?” A young man’s voice came from the other end of the phone, clear and with a hint of playful teasing. “Very pretty, Chloe looks good in everything. Do you miss Daddy?” “Yes! When will Daddy take me to the amusement park?” “Tomorrow! That old geezer is gone on his business trip, isn’t he? Daddy will come play with you tomorrow.” I held my breath, peeking through the crack in the door. Eleanor was wearing a sheer lace nightgown, lying on the bed with her feet playfully propped up, holding an iPad. Chloe lay next to her, their heads close together, giggling uncontrollably at the screen. The iPad screen was large, its light illuminating Eleanor’s face, making her look radiant, a liveliness I rarely saw directed at me. And the man on the screen? I knew him too. Liam Davis. The impoverished university student Eleanor and I had been sponsoring for two years.

David POV Two years ago, I thought my company was doing well, and I wanted to do some charity to give back to society. Through a foundation, I selected several young girls from remote areas. I’d reviewed all their profiles; they were all genuinely bright kids who wanted to study but couldn’t afford it. But Eleanor vehemently objected. She threw the girls’ profiles onto the coffee table, pointing her finger at me. “David Miller, are you out of your mind? Why do you insist on choosing girls? Are you subconsciously sexist? Do you think girls are pitiful, but boys aren’t?” “I just thought that girl had better grades…” I tried to explain. “Enough! I’m not listening to your excuses.” “I’ve picked out this student named Liam. He’s an athlete, bright and ambitious, from a single-parent home – how tough is that? If you’re going to sponsor anyone, it has to be him, or else, forget the charity altogether!” For the sake of domestic peace, I compromised. For two years, Liam’s tuition, living expenses, even his so-called “social practice” fees during breaks, all came from me. I still remember the first time Liam came to our house. He was wearing the expensive sneakers I’d bought him, standing in the living room, his eyes scanning the room before landing on Eleanor, where he offered a shy smile. At the time, Eleanor had smiled and said to me, “Look at this boy, so sensible and good-looking. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if Chloe could find a boyfriend like him someday?” Now it seemed, she wasn’t looking for a boyfriend for our daughter, but for herself. My heart sank, and a sudden realization struck me. Liam had large eyes and a pointed chin. If Chloe didn’t look like me, then she and Liam looked like they were carved from the same mold.

David POV “Ugh, honey,” Eleanor’s voice cut in again, dripping with irritation. “The old man’s off to New York again. Says he’ll only be gone a week this time. It’s so exhausting having to play the perfect little wife and mommy whenever he’s around.” “Just bear with it,” Liam said on the screen, blowing a kiss. “Once we’ve drained his accounts dry, we’re gone. Oh, by the way, did you ask him about that trust fund I mentioned last time?” “I did, and I’m figuring out how to get him to sign it,” Eleanor giggled. “Don’t worry, that idiot does whatever I tell him. All I have to do is bat my eyelashes, and he’ll sign anything.” “My wife is the best.” “Stop it, who’s your wife…” “You are. You’ve been my wife since four years ago.” Four years ago. My hands were trembling. Four years ago, Chloe hadn’t even been born. Eleanor and I had only been married for one year. Sometimes, when rage pushes you past a certain edge, a cold clarity takes over. I wanted to burst in, smash the iPad, and slap those two despicable people. But I knew that besides venting my anger, it would be useless. If I rushed in now, at best, I’d catch them in the act. Knowing Eleanor, she wouldn’t just throw a fit; she’d accuse me back, even use Chloe as a shield. I took a deep breath and slowly released the doorknob. I carried my luggage, retracing my steps back to the entryway, just as I’d come in. Then I slammed the door shut. The loud bang echoed piercingly in the silent night. The laughter inside ceased abruptly. I stood in the entryway, adjusting my breathing, and called out loudly, “Honey! Chloe! I’m home early!” A flurry of hurried sounds came from the master bedroom. I walked to the master bedroom door, and Eleanor emerged. She was wearing a sexy lace nightgown covered by a thick robe, with the buttons all mismatched. “Darling? Why are you back so early? Didn’t you say three more days?” I looked at her, forcing the same kind of goofy, doting smile I always wore, and handed her the gifts. “Missed you, so I hurried back. What, not welcome?” Eleanor took the gifts, visibly relieved, then wrapped her arm around mine and pouted playfully, “Of course not, it was just so sudden, it startled me. Chloe’s already asleep.” “Oh really? I thought I heard you talking just now?” I asked casually, changing my shoes. Eleanor’s body visibly stiffened for a moment but quickly returned to normal. “Oh, I was just scrolling through TikTok. Had the volume up too high.” “Is that so?” I walked into the bedroom. The iPad was already dark, placed on the bedside table. Chloe was lying on the bed with her eyes closed, pretending to be asleep, her eyelashes still trembling slightly. I walked to the bed, looking at that face so similar to Liam’s, and bit down hard. I turned around, looking at Eleanor, who stood anxiously by the door, and said gently, “Eleanor, you’ve worked so hard these past few years. This business trip, it made me realize something.” “What is it?” Eleanor asked tentatively. “I feel like our previous investments had too low a return,” I said with a smile, beginning to enthusiastically explain to Eleanor, “I plan to take out all our liquid assets and make a big investment. We should discuss this properly tomorrow.” Eleanor’s eyes lit up instantly, flashing with a greedy glint. “Oh, darling, whatever you say.” Watching her expression, I sneered inwardly, but maintained a calm demeanor.

David POV Eleanor’s favorite phrase was always. “David, you just have a bit of dirty money. If you didn’t have a sophisticated woman like me to spend it, your money would be worthless paper, utterly without class.” Eleanor had been the campus queen in college. Her family background was ordinary, but she was strikingly beautiful and studied art, exuding an ethereal, artistic vibe. I, on the other hand, was a poor kid from a rural background, who clawed his way up in the construction industry with relentless effort. Though I was now a multimillionaire, in Eleanor’s eyes, I was always a nouveau riche who couldn’t shed his provincial air. I still remember shortly after we got married, I took her to a business gala. I wore a custom suit, feeling somewhat awkward standing beside her. Friends came over to toast, praising me for my achievements and for marrying a goddess. Eleanor merely took a delicate sip of red wine, then, in front of everyone, with a half-smile, straightened my tie and said airily: “Excuse us, everyone. My husband, well, besides being lucky, everything else is really hard to describe. He’ll need a lot of guidance from you all in the future. Otherwise, with just money and no taste, he’ll just be a laughingstock.” In that moment, my friends’ smiles froze, and my face turned beet red. When we got home, I cautiously asked her if I wasn’t good enough. Eleanor sat at her dressing table, removing her makeup while nonchalantly lecturing me. “David, know your place. I had hundreds of suitors-trust fund heirs, Ivy League grads-all more refined than you. I chose you because you’re obedient. Be grateful. I sacrificed my world to elevate your bloodline.” Whenever I tried to express an opinion at home, or questioned household expenses, she would look at me as if I were trash. “What do you know? Your “poverty mindset” only understands saving. You don’t know how to live. My spa days and designer bags? They maintain my image-and reflect on you. You should feel honored. Without me, you’d be eating takeout on a job site, not living this life.” Over time, she brainwashed me. I thought she was right. My taste was bad, I didn’t understand art, I didn’t understand fashion. And she was a goddess, a celestial being, high above. Her willingness to marry me, to spend my money, was her greatest blessing upon me. To be worthy of her, I quit smoking, stopped cursing, and painstakingly learned about wine tasting and golf. I handed over all financial control to her, keeping only a small allowance each month and giving her the rest. When our daughter Chloe was born, I was overjoyed, holding her and not letting go. But Eleanor disdainfully snatched the baby from my arms, wiped her hands with a sanitizing wipe, and frowned. “Don’t hold her so much. You reek of smoke, liquor, and sweat. Don’t spoil Chloe with that smell.” “Chloe’s beauty comes from me. If she looked like you, her life would be ruined.” Back then, I thought she was just obsessed with appearances. I even foolishly smiled and agreed, thinking she was right. Now, looking back-every look, every put-down-was that really just playful banter? No, it was pure disgust.

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At my engagement party to Luke, the fake heiress Chloe tried to kill herself again. That was the last straw. I set the banquet hall on fire and vanished. Five years later, my family caught my interview on television. My older brother Daniel’s call came through. “Anya, you’re alive!” I didn’t answer. As I was about to hang up, Daniel scoffed. “Grandma’s funeral is next week. Come if you care.” After the call, my husband Ryan came in with our daughter. “I’ll take Lily to camp. You should go. Your grandmother always loved you so much.” I nodded. Five years. It was time to go back and collect every last debt. Five years changed nothing. The estate stood just as I remembered. “Where is Grandma buried?” I asked Daniel. Daniel replied. “Just come inside.” I lowered my gaze and followed him in. Daniel was seated on the sofa. A faint smile touched his lips as I finally entered. He raised a hand, pushing a glass of lemon tea towards me. “Came straight through the night? Still get airsick, I guess.” For a moment, I was lost. I remembered him years ago, bringing me from our small town to the city-my first flight, my first bout of sickness. I could still see his frown as he fixed that same lemon tea. But later, because of Chloe, everything between us froze solid. I snapped back, pushing the lemon water away. “Thanks, I don’t need it.” I stated calmly, “I don’t get airsick anymore, and I don’t like this either.” These past few years, I’d been busy building my career, constantly flying all over the world. Daniel’s pupils constricted abruptly. After a long moment, he simply uttered a low “Hm.” Silence filled the room. I broke it first. “If you haven’t decided where to lay Grandma to rest, Daniel, then let’s not waste each other’s time.” Seeing me rise to leave, Daniel stood up abruptly. “Anya, you-” “Is big brother back?” A girlish laugh, sweet as syrup, cut through his words from the direction of the garden. It was Chloe, the fake heir.

Chloe ran to the garden entrance, her back to the floor-to-ceiling windows. She didn’t seem to notice us in the living room. A gentle breeze lifted her dress, revealing a slightly rounded stomach. Was she… pregnant? I froze. Then I saw Noah, my former younger brother, anxiously following behind Chloe. “Chloe, be careful! Do you even remember you’re pregnant?” Chloe pouted, cooing, “Oh, come on, I’m not a fragile doll.” Noah shook his head helplessly. Turning around, he saw me and froze. Before Noah could react, Chloe, who had also seen me, already smiled sweetly at me. “Anya. You actually came back. I was…so happy to hear you weren’t dead!” I scoffed. “You look radiant. I can only imagine how comfortable these past five years have been for you.” Chloe’s eyes instantly welled up. She tugged on Daniel’s sleeve. “Daniel, she’s targeting me again.” Daniel frowned, but this time, he didn’t scold me. Just then, Noah excitedly stepped forward and grabbed my shoulder. “These past few years, have you been okay, all alone?” I sidestepped, avoiding his touch. “I’m afraid I’ll have to disappoint you, Noah. I’m doing more than okay. I’m doing great.” Noah stiffened, as if my words had burned him. Five years ago, at my engagement party, he’d smashed a wine glass and cursed. “Anya, if anything happens to Chloe, I’ll never forgive you! A cold-blooded, selfish woman like you doesn’t deserve happiness!” Now, he was feigning concern about how I was doing. I sneered. Just then, Chloe suddenly clutched her stomach, her expression twisting in pain. “Noah, my stomach hurts.” “Chloe!” Noah was instantly distracted. He scooped up Chloe, intending to call a family doctor. Daniel walked over to me. “Chloe is pregnant. The baby is from your ex-fiancé, Luke. After you ran away from the wedding, Chloe helped you complete the alliance. Don’t blame her.” She stole my fiancé, and he called it helping me. I couldn’t help but sneer. “Right. My boyfriend of many years, who then turned around and married my sister. Isn’t that an insult to me?” I looked at him, my gaze icy. “Besides, are you getting old and forgetful, or are you deliberately playing dumb? Do I really need to remind you why I ran away from that wedding?” Daniel’s face instantly turned ashen. The next day, I personally went to choose a gravesite for Grandma. She had lived a life of strict adherence to rules, and the most rebellious thing she ever did was help me leave the family five years ago. Five years prior, Chloe had once again caused a scene, threatening suicide at my engagement party with Luke. That time, I didn’t let her disruptive behavior stop the wedding. Instead, I called an ambulance and insisted the engagement continue. Noah, the brother I’d protected since childhood, glared at me as if I were his enemy. “Why do you have to provoke her? You’ve already gotten the person Chloe loves, what more do you want?” My brother, Daniel, looked at me with disappointment. “Anya, you’re too cruel. Do you really have to hold the engagement now?” My fiancé, Luke, said nothing. He simply carried Chloe away from the engagement, never once looking back at me. All the guests’ astonished gazes fell upon me. All the years of pent-up hurt and fury surged within me. I snatched a serving knife from a waiter and chased after them like a madwoman. But Grandma stopped me. “Pathetic!” she chided. “Is a fickle man, wavering between two women, worth you committing a crime for?” Then she handed me a bank card and said, “Go. Don’t come back.” I staggered, regaining my footing. When I looked up again, she had already turned away. Later, I used those three hundred thousand dollars to establish myself in a foreign country. And later still, I built my own family. As I walked out of the cemetery, I saw Luke, my ex-fiancé.

“Anya!” Luke stepped out of a black Bentley and blocked my path. “Anya, you’re really back! I’ve been looking for you all these years.” I ignored him. Luke followed me. “Don’t you remember me? We were in love for over a decade.” I stopped, unable to help but laugh. “Luke, weren’t you the one who was secretly seeing Chloe behind my back?” Luke and I truly had grown up together, childhood sweethearts supporting each other. In winter, we’d share a scarf; in summer, we’d split an ice cream. I still remember that summer night when I was seventeen, the stars were incredibly bright. And so were Luke’s eyes. “Once I get to college, I’ll work and save up to buy you a big house!” “Okay! I want a balcony where I can plant flowers,” I giggled. To save money for our college expenses, I secretly worked odd jobs at a restaurant. My hands turned white from the water, but my eyes were full of hope. Until just before the exams, Luke’s family found him. He was the true heir of a powerful family in the city, lost and now found. The day he left, he cried, holding my hand. “Anya, wait for me.” But I waited and waited. I received my college admission letter, but he never came back. We met again at a family banquet. I had become the long-lost true daughter of the family. And he, was my sister Chloe’s new boyfriend. Now, Luke was staring intently at me. “Marrying Chloe was forced. I had just returned to my family, and I wanted to secure my inheritance. Only a marriage alliance with a family of equal standing would do. But you, you just…” So fake! Now, his eyes were full of calculation; he was no longer the innocent boy he once was. Seeing that I still didn’t speak, he continued. “Anya, I’ve missed you all these years. You’ve come back alone, aren’t you waiting for me to marry you?” I couldn’t help but slap him across the face. “Luke, don’t be pathetic! Your wife is pregnant!” Luke staggered back two steps, not saying another word. I had just turned to leave when Noah came over to warn me. “Anya, he’s already married!” “Don’t worry,” I said coldly. “I have no interest in cheating men! Chloe might be desperate, but I’m not.” Noah’s face instantly flushed. He stammered awkwardly. “No matter what, you still have me as family.” “Family?” I couldn’t help but burst out laughing. “Noah, in this city, besides Grandma, no one is my family.” With that, I intended to return to my hotel. But Noah still followed behind me. “Where are you staying? I’ll take you!” I warned him, “If you keep following me, I’m calling the cops!” That evening, my husband, Ryan, video called. “Sweetheart, how are things going? Lily and I miss you.” Seeing the loving expressions on my husband’s and daughter’s faces, my heart softened. “I miss you too. I’ll be home soon.” I chatted with Lily and Ryan. Midway through our conversation, he suddenly said, “You should watch out for your sister, Chloe.” “I understand.” I knew Chloe was a viper. Now that she saw me back, how could she resist striking? But I had some surprises prepared for them too, and I’d deliver them one by one.

On the day of the funeral, I planned to leave early. Just as I was about to go, I saw Chloe, arm-in-arm with Luke, and Daniel and Noah, emerging from the lounge. They clearly saw me too. Daniel walked towards me. “Where are you going?” I said blandly, “I’m leaving.” Daniel blocked my path, his brows deeply furrowed. “Where are you going? Aren’t you coming home with us?” “Home? I don’t have a home here,” I retorted. “Anya!” Daniel’s emotions suddenly flared. “Are you really willing to wander around outside rather than come home? Are you truly planning to cut all ties with this family for good, this lifetime?!” Before I could answer, Chloe cut in. “Anya, how long are you going to keep this up with us? Do you really have to mess up the family until everyone is miserable? Mom and Dad wouldn’t have wanted…” She hadn’t finished speaking when I slapped her hard across the face. “I didn’t want to hit you, but you don’t deserve to mention my parents!” The men nearby’s expressions changed, but in the end, none of them moved. Chloe’s eyes welled up with tears, feigning hurt. “Did I say something wrong?” “Oh?” I raised an eyebrow, looking at her with a smile. “Since this is my family, I’d like to ask, when are you returning the ten percent of the company shares that are in my name?” A heavy silence fell. Chloe was speechless, tears hanging in her eyes. Daniel’s face paled. Five years ago, Daniel forced me to transfer the shares my parents left me into Chloe’s name. He said Chloe was weak since childhood, and she needed the money more. “Why should I give them back to you! I won’t!” Chloe’s eyes turned fierce when she heard me demanding the shares. “Alright, I’ll make her transfer them back to you,” Daniel said to me. “No!” Chloe shrieked. But Noah stepped forward, his voice low. “Those shares were left to Anya by her parents. You should return them.” Chloe’s eyes welled up. She couldn’t understand why her doting brothers had turned on her, unmoved even by her tears. I was puzzled, too. What had gotten into them? Still, it worked in my favor. Less trouble for me. Chloe fell silent for a moment. Then, as if she’d just pieced it together, she didn’t lash out. She smiled. “Anya, so this was your game all along? Disappear, make them feel guilty, and then collect? Fine. These shares mean nothing to me. If you want them, have them.” I didn’t answer. I simply pulled a share transfer agreement from my bag. “Good. Sign it now.”

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I have a special mind-reading ability: I can hear the thoughts of anyone who doesn’t truly love me. But right before my wedding, I suddenly heard my fiancée’s thoughts: “Julian is crashing the wedding tomorrow. Is wearing these heels a bad idea if I need to run?” I didn’t say a word. The next day, I simply left the country. Later, that wedding became the talk of the town – both the groom and the bride had run away. I’ve always possessed a peculiar ability: I can hear the unspoken thoughts of those who don’t genuinely love me. Thanks to this, I can easily discern whether someone’s affection for me is fake. I’ve effortlessly detached myself from superficial friendships and remained completely unfazed by confessions from women I’d once crushed on for ages. Even when buying durian, I can hear the vendor’s thoughts and pick the one with the most flesh and sweetest aroma. Every single thought, loud and clear. To avoid constant mental chatter, I usually steer clear of eye contact with strangers in my daily life. But the first time I met Serena Davies, the entire world went silent, leaving only the crisp sound of our conversation: “Hi, mind if I introduce myself?” No thoughts. As our eyes met, I couldn’t hear a single thought from Serena. “Hello.” Throughout the time Serena pursued me, the voices in my head remained simple and pure. I believed she loved me. So, we fell in love, dated, and then got engaged. For two whole years, I never once heard her thoughts. But on the eve of our wedding, I suddenly could. Serena had been especially busy lately because of the wedding. She came from a wealthy family and had successfully taken over her father’s position, independently managing the Davies family’s financial firm. With all the wedding arrangements, we had so much to handle in advance, especially in the last two months. So, our meetings had been few and far between. But today, as we finalized the outfits, I thought this would be a rare moment alone together, and a flicker of anticipation stirred within me. When I arrived at the studio, she was already there, trying on shoes. She turned to whisper something to a staff member, then took a call, walking out while speaking, her tone heavily reassuring. I understood her workload; running a company wasn’t easy, especially since she wasn’t the only heir in the Davies family. Our eyes met in a familiar, silent understanding. But then, Serena’s voice suddenly echoed in my mind: “Julian said he’s crashing the wedding tomorrow. Flat shoes would be easier to run in.” Julian? Crashing the wedding? I froze, staring intently at her lips, confirming it was her thought. For a moment, I didn’t know how to react. Even though it was a scorching summer day outside, a chill instantly spread through my entire body, paralyzing me. I could hear her thoughts now. The implication was painfully clear. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a staff member, following her instructions, place a pair of comfortable flats into her wedding attire bag. Serena nodded at me and turned to leave. It was our usual silent agreement; she must have something important to deal with. But the words I’d just heard were real, and I never misheard. My body moved almost autonomously, following her. I couldn’t quite believe it, and hurried after her, calling out: “Serena?” I desperately wanted to read more of her thoughts, to understand what this woman, my fiancée, was truly thinking. Why, on the very eve of our wedding, had her heart suddenly changed? My call made Serena pause just before disappearing into the back seat. But it was only a brief pause. She turned, quickly offered a brief explanation, and then instructed the driver to speed away: “Sorry, an urgent client matter came up. I have to rush over.” She was lying. Right now, she was clearly thinking: “I can tell from his voice on the phone that Julian’s angry. If I don’t smooth things over, he won’t let me go home tonight again.” I’ve never been the type to stew in self-pity or become a resentful, self-pitying husband. Instead of overthinking, I prefer to take action. I immediately found an excuse to privately meet Serena’s assistant, using my mind-reading to uncover more information.

His name was Julian. He was the man Serena truly loved. Julian was an illegitimate son from a prominent family, the Blackwoods. His stepmother, Mrs. Blackwood, never truly acknowledged him, leaving him in a perpetually awkward, ‘neither here nor there’ kind of limbo. Unfortunately, Serena’s family elders opposed their relationship. Julian, with his strong pride, couldn’t bear the humiliation and left Serena, disappearing without a trace. Serena’s so-called ‘love at first sight’ for me was nothing more than a cruel trick of fate. I only caught her eye because I bore a fleeting resemblance to Julian. Now that Julian was back, she naturally had no need for a replacement like me. And Julian’s return happened to coincide with the last two months when Serena had been excessively busy. The logic was flawless, everything fitting perfectly. Hearing such a story, I couldn’t help but shake my head and chuckle with a bitter sense of resignation. Julian wanted to crash the wedding as a way to stake his claim on Serena, and also to get revenge on me for having occupied the position of Serena’s husband for so long. As for Serena, she needed this grand gesture to prove her unwavering love for Julian, to appease him, and to force the Davies family to accept him. This whole world, it’s just one massive, over-the-top soap opera. The moment I realized this, I couldn’t help but curse under my breath. That night, the lights in my apartment were still on. Even though the wedding was scheduled for the next day, I was busy packing, not a moment to spare. Two hours earlier, I had booked a first-class ticket out of the country. If Serena could have Julian crash the wedding for her, I could certainly run away from it. Thankfully, my family had already settled abroad, and this wedding hadn’t involved all the trouble of flying in relatives and friends from overseas. We’d only invited local friends we were close with. The original plan was that since both sets of parents had already met during the engagement, we would hold another ceremony abroad later, saving relatives and friends from the hassle of travel and language barriers. This plan, ironically, made my current escape much easier. I briefly shared my thoughts with my best friend, Connor. He silently took the packing box from my hands, his expression serious. I couldn’t read his thoughts, and seeing his unusual reaction, I had to ask: “Connor, are you going to stop me?” Connor just rolled his eyes, a sarcastic smirk playing on his lips. “Seriously, Alex? You think I’m gonna stop you? I’m just getting you a tougher duffel bag for all your gear.” On the wedding day, dressed in my custom-tailored suit, I stood beside Serena, greeting arriving guests. This time, Serena’s thoughts were so loud they gave me a headache: “Is Julian here yet?” “I can finally be with Julian. Three years, I’ve waited three years for Julian. He’s finally going to be my husband.” “This wedding crash, Julian will believe my heart will always love him, right?” It sent shivers down my spine, making me frown and glance at Serena several times. Yet, she maintained her gentle and elegant demeanor, showing concern for me as usual: “Alex, you don’t look so good. Why don’t you go rest in the lounge? I can handle the guests out here, and you can just make your entrance for the ceremony.” Good idea. It was almost time for me to make my exit anyway. I agreed, and as I was about to change out of my suit into casual clothes, I coincidentally ran into Julian by the door. Thanks to our similar looks and my mind-reading ability, I recognized him instantly. I gripped Connor’s arm, stopping him from lunging at the third party, and pretended to be oblivious: “You must be one of Serena’s friends, right? Please, go on in. Our wedding starts in a few hours.” Julian’s smile stiffened, seemingly displeased by my affectionate way of referring to Serena, and his words were tinged with thinly veiled sarcasm: “Alex, sorry for the ‘wardrobe malfunction’ today. If someone didn’t know better, they might think I was the groom.” Julian’s arrogant thoughts simultaneously echoed in my ear: “Laugh all you want. In three hours, your bride will be running away for me. Will you still be smiling then?”

I kept my smile, shaking my head as if unaffected. I instructed a nearby server to show him to his seat. Julian’s thoughts flared again: “Idiot. I spelled it out for him, and he still doesn’t get that I’m here to cause trouble.” As Julian walked past, Connor couldn’t help but grumble to me: “Look at that cocky attitude. I can’t stand it.” I shrugged. “He sees me as a joke right now. After all, Serena’s all prepared for him to crash the wedding. That way, they’ll get their ‘lovers reunited’ story, and he can force the Davies family to acknowledge his status right in front of me.” The wedding venue wasn’t far from the airport. I was sitting in the departure lounge, and the ceremony hadn’t even begun yet. I stared intently at the time on my phone, waiting for the farce to unfold. My phone vibrated relentlessly as Connor excitedly live-streamed updates: “Alex, he actually crashed it! He actually crashed it! Cheating and acting like Romeo and Juliet, it’s absolutely shameless.” The ceremony had barely started five minutes before Connor sent me a video from the wedding. According to the schedule, after Serena went on stage and the officiant delivered a sappy, emotional speech, it would be the groom’s entrance. Julian planned to crash at precisely that moment. Julian, deliberately dressed in a suit similar to the groom’s, strode swiftly onto the stage and snatched the officiant’s microphone. Despite the murmurs from the crowd, he rambled on, professing his love. Such audacious declarations made Serena’s eyes well up. “Serena, will you leave with me?” A gasp rippled through the guest seats. Stealing the bride on her wedding day – wasn’t that a blatant wedding crash? The worst part was, Serena nodded in agreement, her face beaming with emotion. She walked over to Julian, clasping her fingers with his: “I do.” Julian’s swollen ego was fully satisfied at that moment. He even had the audacity to deliver an “acceptance speech” to the groom, who was still behind a closed door. The gist was that he knew I liked Serena, but Serena truly loved him, and he hoped I would grant them my blessing. In the video, Serena was wearing a pair of flat shoes that completely clashed with her wedding gown, and Julian, holding the microphone, couldn’t suppress the triumph in his eyes. Julian probably couldn’t wait to see my devastated face, having already planned out what he’d say to comfort me: “I hope Alex will bless this love between Serena and me.” “Alex?” The atmosphere suddenly grew awkward. After all, the person being publicly humiliated wasn’t there, turning this “satisfying drama” into a clownish farce. “Alex?” Julian called out several times, but received no answer, until the usher finally opened the large door. Beyond it, the space was empty, save for a discarded dark tie, symbolizing the groom’s unexplained absence. The crowd erupted in commotion. Someone shouted: “Did the groom just run away?”

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After our breakup, I decisively quit my job. I was ready to leave the country when my ex-boyfriend and ex-boss, Mark, suddenly appeared at the airport, trying to win me back. He said he’d fired his assistant, Chloe, and from now on, I’d be the company’s Vice President. But just as I decided not to leave the country and was ready to go back with him, he ripped his hand from mine and called Chloe: “You win your bet. This idiot actually thought I’d keep her around.” Then he sneered at me, “Just a joke. You actually fell for it? Go on, get out of here. No one’s stopping you this time.” The colleagues present laughed at me, as if I was some pathetic puppy who’d wag its tail and come running back with a single wave of his hand. But what they didn’t know was that I wasn’t leaving the country because my new company had just finalized an acquisition. And I was about to become their new CEO. I wasn’t angry when my ex-boyfriend, Mark, smugly told me his attempt to win me back had been nothing more than a cruel joke. I just pulled out my phone to call a ride home. The colleagues standing by watched me with mocking eyes, sneering: “Skylar, Mark said he doesn’t want you. What are you waiting for? Go ahead and book your flight, just leave already!” “Didn’t you say you got a job abroad? What happened? Did they ditch you again?” Mark watched them mock me, indulging in their taunts, not bothering to stop them. This suffocating, humiliating workplace bullying had been a constant shadow over me for years. I used to argue back, feeling deeply wronged that my boyfriend, who was literally the head of the company, never stood up for me. But now? I felt nothing. It was like watching a pathetic clown show. “My business, I don’t think it concerns you, does it?” I said, my voice flat. Mark scoffed, his gaze sweeping over me with disdain. “Even now, you’re still talking tough?” “With your meager abilities, do you honestly think you could’ve lasted in this company all these years if it wasn’t for me?” “Going abroad? What a joke.” Yes, I, a top-tier university graduate, had thrown away a high-paying job most people could only dream of. I had helped him build this company from the ground up. Yet, in Mark’s eyes, I was completely useless, someone who only got where I was through his charity. I almost laughed out loud. I used to love Mark more than life itself. Even after decades of hard work, only reaching a manager role, I never complained. But then he started giving my projects to Chloe, his new assistant, again and again. He even dumped her screw-ups onto me, making me take the fall. He used it as an excuse to cut my pay and suspend me, while giving Chloe a promotion and a raise. That’s when I finally woke up. This one-sided love, sustained only by me, had to end. So I quit on the spot and broke up with him, deciding to pursue opportunities abroad. I never expected him to pull such a “joke” on me, especially when I was just about to board my flight. I didn’t feel sad or heartbroken. Just… perplexed. How blind had I been to fall for a man like him? I shook my head, not bothering to argue. “You’re right about everything. Can I go now?” I walked around Mark, heading for the gate. But he suddenly grabbed my arm, his eyes locked on me with a sneer. “You’re such an actress! Your excuse about going abroad has been exposed, and you’re still putting on a show?” “Out of respect for our past, I’ll give you an out.” “Come back with me, and I’ll let you be Chloe’s assistant.” Seeing his condescending posture, I finally understood the real purpose behind Mark’s “joke.” On the surface, it was a bet with Chloe to see if I’d be soft-hearted enough to stay. But in reality, he just wanted me to remain at the company, to be his and Chloe’s slave. I had to admit, Mark was incredibly thorough in planning Chloe’s future. He gave her promotions, raises, and even assigned someone to assist her. Meanwhile, I, who had helped him achieve his dream of being a boss step by step, saw him ruthlessly take everything from me to pave Chloe’s way. I let out a cold laugh. “Chloe isn’t even worth my time, let alone my help.” Mark’s face instantly darkened. “Skylar, it seems I’ve indulged you too much all these years, making you think you’re so important…” Before he could finish, a figure suddenly approached from a distance. “Mark!” Mark instantly softened, walking to meet her. “Chloe!” Chloe glanced at me, then smiled at Mark. “See, I knew Skylar’s talk about going abroad was just an excuse. She really didn’t leave.” Mark glared at me, his eyes full of disdain. “Some people think too highly of themselves, believing the company can’t function without them!” “Unlike you, Chloe, you’re talented and humble. Since she won’t take the opportunity, then fine. Let’s go.” Chloe, however, pulled Mark’s hand, her voice a pathetic whine. “Mark, we can’t leave yet. My watch has been missing ever since Skylar quit last time.” “That watch was my grandmother’s heirloom.” She then looked at me, pleading. “Skylar, please just give it back.” Before I could even process what was happening, Mark suddenly glared at me in a fury. “Skylar, did you actually steal something?!” I was about to deny it, but Mark coldly cut me off. “Don’t try to deny it. Are you really suggesting Chloe would lie about you?” “You don’t even have a job now, who knows if you’ve turned into a thief?” Then he commanded a few other people: “Open her suitcase, search it!” I stared at Mark in disbelief. For the past ten years, living together day in and day out, he knew my character better than anyone. Just because of Chloe’s baseless accusation, he wanted to publicly open my suitcase? Earlier, he played a cruel joke on me, and I didn’t want to argue. But this, this act of outright bullying, finally ignited my fury. Not disappointment, not heartache. Only pure, unadulterated rage and disgust. “Stop it!” I yelled, furious. Chloe, feigning innocence, said, “Skylar, why are you getting angry? Could it be… that you actually took it?” Now Mark’s gaze turned even more hateful. He signaled two people to block me, his voice cold. “Don’t mind her, keep searching!” I watched in horror as my suitcase was toppled, my private clothes spilling onto the floor. Furious to my core, I screamed for airport security. Only then did they awkwardly stop. “Didn’t find anything,” Chloe said, disappointed. “Never mind, don’t make it hard on Skylar. She’s had it tough enough.” Mark, however, shot me a venomous glare. “I bet some people stole it and sold it!” Then he turned to Chloe, his voice gentle. “It’s okay, Chloe. I’ll buy you a new one.” As they left, he coldly swept his eyes over me. “Skylar, when you’re homeless and desperate in the future, don’t come crawling back to me.” With that, he walked away with his entourage, Chloe shooting me a triumphant glance. I said nothing, but a cold laugh formed in my heart. They still didn’t know that the company’s major projects had imploded, and it was on the verge of bankruptcy and acquisition. And I wasn’t leaving the country because my new company had just appointed me as the new CEO of their company.

My new company’s headquarters were abroad, a well-known multinational corporation. Near graduation, because of my excellent grades, I had received an invitation from them. But Mark had persuaded me to stay and help him start his business, so I rejected the opportunity. A while ago, when I broke up with Mark, they immediately called me, inviting me to join. But just before I boarded the plane, I suddenly received a call. Their domestic subsidiary had decided to acquire local enterprises to integrate resources, which included Mark’s company. They had decided to appoint me as the new CEO. After I got home and put my luggage away, I arranged to meet with Ms. Smith, the head of the domestic subsidiary. I arrived at the restaurant early and waited for her. But I never expected to see Mark and Chloe there, laughing and chatting, until they saw me. Mark froze for a moment. Then he walked over, looking annoyed. “Skylar, are you stalking me?” “You were so defiant earlier, weren’t you? What, regretting it now?” Before I could speak, Chloe chimed in, chuckling. “Mark, with so many people watching, Skylar probably just didn’t want to lose face by saying yes.” “How about this? Skylar, if you apologize to Mark properly, I’m sure he’d still give you a job opportunity.” “What do you say, Mark?” Mark looked me up and down, displeased, then feigned a difficult expression. “Since Chloe is pleading for you, it’s not impossible. Drink this bottle of wine, and I’ll let you be an assistant again.” He pointed to the bottle on the table. A cold laugh echoed in my heart. Mark knew perfectly well I had stomach issues and couldn’t drink alcohol, yet he proposed such a condition. He was just waiting for me to humble myself and beg him. But he had miscalculated. “You’re overthinking it. I’m waiting for someone.” “Waiting for someone? Ha, you’re really stubborn, aren’t you?” Mark sneered. “I’ve known you for years; don’t think I don’t know your little schemes.” “You just think being Chloe’s assistant is beneath you, don’t you?” “But these days, what’s face worth?” As she was speaking, Ms. Smith, my scheduled guest, walked over. She extended her hand to me. “My apologies, Ms. Skylar, I hope I haven’t kept you waiting too long.” I completely bypassed Mark, smiling as I shook Ms. Smith’s hand. “Ms. Smith, let’s talk inside. We have a couple of flies buzzing around out here, quite annoying.” “Yes, yes, of course.” Mark stared at me in disbelief. As I was about to walk into the private room with Ms. Smith, I heard Chloe whisper to Mark, loud enough for me to hear: “Looks like Skylar’s meeting some headhunter for a job, huh?” The next moment, Mark suddenly stepped in front of me, blocking my path. He sneered. “Skylar, you’ve really gotten cocky. You’d rather find a job yourself than beg me?” “But I have to warn you, considering your past performance, I’ve already warned everyone in the industry about you. No one will hire you.” “Now, do you regret it?” He watched me with a smirk, seemingly waiting for me to turn back. But he was wrong. Mark’s meager influence wasn’t enough to threaten me. And because of my departure, and Chloe taking over all major projects, his company had already accumulated many risks and was on the brink of bankruptcy. Of this, he was completely oblivious. I said blandly, “Mark, confidence is a good thing. But I hope you’ll maintain that same attitude when your company goes bankrupt and gets acquired.” “Skylar, you–!” Mark was so furious he was about to curse me, but then he turned his attention to Ms. Smith. He pulled out a business card and practically shoved it into Ms. Smith’s hand, his tone oozing arrogance. “Mark, CEO of Sterling Group. Skylar is my former employee. She has a terrible work ethic and was just fired.” “I advise your company to choose very carefully.” With that, he shot me one last glance, linked arms with Chloe, and strutted away. Ms. Smith frowned, clutching the business card, and looked at me. “This…” “He’s just a pathetic little man. Let’s go inside and talk,” I said with a faint smile. Ms. Smith casually tossed the business card into a nearby trash can. Inside the private room, we discussed the acquisition of Mark’s company. We strategized to capitalize on the recent project failures and acquire it at a rock-bottom price. Ms. Smith then pulled out the personnel list from the original company, asking me to help create an optimization plan. I knew everyone’s professional capabilities and conduct like the back of my hand, so I promised to provide a solution as soon as possible. After talking with Ms. Smith, I went home. But as I stepped through the door, I saw Mark sitting on my sofa. With his long legs crossed, staring at me with a chilling gaze. I couldn’t help but frown. “What are you doing here?”

I glanced at the front door. That’s when I remembered I’d forgotten to delete his fingerprint after we broke up. Mark didn’t answer, just said coldly, “Who told you my company went bankrupt and was acquired?” I was busy changing my shoes, not bothering to respond. Mark’s face grew even darker. “As you wished, the company did indeed go bankrupt.” I raised an eyebrow, surprised Ms. Smith had been so efficient. She said it at lunch, and it was done by the afternoon. Mark continued. “Skylar, I don’t know how you got this information ahead of time.” “But don’t celebrate too soon.” “The company that acquired us is a huge corporation. They’ll help me deal with the previous project issues.” “I’ll still be in management.” I walked over and brewed myself a cup of tea, not at all surprised. I knew this, of course. It was because my optimization list hadn’t been finalized yet, so the original company personnel were temporarily retained. “So?” I asked calmly. Mark’s eyes were locked on me. “I want you to hand over all your old client resources to Chloe, and I’ll arrange a manager position for you in the new company.” “You should know, with the backing of the head office, Sterling Group will only be stronger than before.” “Offering you your manager role back, that’s a pretty generous offer.” I suddenly laughed. He said it with such righteous conviction, as if he was doing me a huge favor. But I knew very well that after the company’s acquisition, Ms. Smith would release the development plan I had written. One of the stipulations was that after I took office, positions would be assigned based on ability. Mark was making this demand for one reason only. He wanted to use my old client resources to help Chloe demonstrate her abilities and secure her position as Vice President. I had to admit, his love for Chloe was deep. Too bad he’d bet on the wrong person. “Mark, you’re incredibly naive.” My words instantly darkened Mark’s face. He suddenly stood up and walked toward me, step by step. His tall frame loomed over me, radiating a chilling pressure, his eyes piercing through me as if he saw straight into my soul. “Skylar, I know you’re still jealous of Chloe.” “You feel wronged, wondering why I changed toward you and was so good to her?” “But I need you to understand, our identities are different now. I’m the boss.” “And you? You’re just a woman who worked for me. A girlfriend like you simply isn’t a match for me anymore.” “But Chloe, she brought me a fresh thrill and made me feel like a man. You can’t compare to her.” Mark stared at me intently, his voice unusually gentle. “I’m giving you one night to think about it.” With that, he turned and left. I shook my head helplessly. I immediately deleted his fingerprint, then opened my laptop and sent over tomorrow’s termination list. The next morning, I officially started my new role at the company. As I entered, colleagues were buzzing, discussing the company’s acquisition. Mark, as always, was making empty promises to everyone. He claimed he was still part of management and that if everyone worked hard, things would remain the same as before. Until someone noticed me, his eyes suddenly lit up. He walked over to me, his tone triumphant, as if he’d expected me to come crawling back. “Had a change of heart? Willing to hand over the client files to Chloe?”

I let out a soft, mocking laugh and shook my head. Mark’s face fell. Before he could speak, Chloe, standing nearby, chuckled. “Skylar, why are you being so difficult?” “If you weren’t planning to hand over the client files, then what are you doing here?” “Don’t tell me you’re here to work today?” Her words drew snickers from the other colleagues. I raised an eyebrow and nodded. “I am here to work.” At that, the onlookers burst into laughter, pointing at me. “Work? More like looking for a job! Does she seriously think she can just waltz in now that we’ve been acquired?” “She must be dreaming!” “Skylar, weren’t you going abroad? How come you’re applying to our company now? Haha!” I was about to speak, but Mark’s voice cut me off, dark and stern. “Skylar, are you ever going to stop this nonsense?!” “I offered you a chance to give Chloe the client files, and you’re still being stubborn as a mule?” “Did you not understand what I said yesterday? Do you want to be unemployed?” I shook my head regretfully. “Mark, you’re the one who’s about to be unemployed. You should be making your own plans instead of wasting time.” Mark looked at me, then suddenly let out a mocking laugh. “Look at Skylar, everyone. Has she lost her mind? Telling me to make plans?” “What, I’m the former owner of this company. Do you think you can fire me or something?” “Skylar, believe me, as long as I’m here today, you won’t even find a job as a cleaner…” Just as the words left his lips, two figures walked through the company’s main entrance. They were Mr. Hayes and his assistant, sent by the head office to help me reorganize the company. Mark recognized them, his face changing instantly. He quickly plastered a smile on his face and went to greet them. “Mr. Hayes, you’re here! Has our new CEO arrived yet? I’d like to formally greet them.” Mr. Hayes merely glanced at him, said nothing, and walked straight to me, nodding respectfully. Then, he addressed the assembled crowd. “This is our company’s new CEO, Skylar!” For a moment, Mark’s smile froze on his face. He asked, unnaturally, “Mr. Hayes, you must be joking, right?” “Skylar is a useless woman, how could she possibly… ” Suddenly, Mr. Hayes pulled out the termination list I had personally compiled yesterday and slapped it onto Mark’s face. He pointed at Mark and Chloe, his voice cold. “You two are terminated. Pack your things and get out!”

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After my billionaire parents found me, they asked if I was interested in getting married. Looking at the ring my boyfriend had given me, I should have refused, but I decisively said yes. Just two days before, when I went to see my boyfriend, I’d overheard his mother talking to him. “Dump Evie, now. I’ve already agreed to your engagement to the wealthy Hayes family.” My boyfriend, Kolt Sterling, replied nonchalantly: “Don’t worry, Mom. I only ever saw Evie as a plaything. I’ve been bored of her for years. I’ll dump her soon.” Seven years of our relationship, and to him, I was just a plaything. Fine, then I’ll find a new one. After telling my parents about the arranged marriage, I went back to the Sterling estate to pack my things and leave. The moment I flicked on the light in the small room I was staying in, Kolt followed me in, pushing me onto the narrow bed as he always did. “Why have you been away so much lately? I’ve been missing you like crazy.” His cool hand skillfully slipped under my shirt, and his eager, passionate kiss was about to land, but I dodged it. I pushed away a surprised Kolt and stood up, saying directly: “I heard everything you and your mother said.” Kolt’s furrowed brows smoothed out, and he actually let out a long sigh of relief. “You heard it all?” “Good. That way, I won’t have to keep secrets from both of you anymore. It’s exhausting.” He pulled me into his arms, his voice coaxing: “Evie, we’re not kids anymore. You’re smart enough to know the social gap between us. I don’t need to spell it out.” “I know you can’t live without me. As long as you behave yourself and don’t cause trouble, I’ll keep providing for you, giving you the life you want, okay? Hmm?” As Kolt spoke, he brushed the hair from my temple, his expression one of his usual, feigned tenderness. I followed his movement, looking at his defined fingers, where only a clearly discolored ring mark remained. My gaze dropped further, to the ugly, twisted self-harm scars on his wrist, pulling me back to that winter when I was eighteen. Actually, when Kolt and I first started dating, the Sterling family hadn’t been entirely against it. Kolt’s mother had fired me, left me without papers, and sent me to the US. When Kolt found out, he went ballistic. That very night, he slashed his wrists. The water in the bathtub turned blood red. Every time they saved him, he’d do it again. After a few rounds, Kolt’s mother was completely helpless. When I was brought to the hospital to see him, the eighteen-year-old boy was pale, stumbling but rushing towards me without stopping. Kolt hugged me tightly, so hard it felt like he wanted to fuse me into his very being. He urgently slipped a custom-made matching couple’s ring onto my finger. “Evie, I had this ring custom-made with a tracking device.” “No one will ever separate us again, not in this lifetime! Promise me, no matter what happens, you’ll never, ever leave me again, okay?” A boy’s vows still seemed to echo in my ears. But now, it was him who so easily chose to betray our love. I stepped back out of Kolt’s embrace, took off the ring, and stated, each word deliberate: “Kolt, we’re over.” Kolt’s face darkened. “Are you serious?” Seeing me nod, he slammed the door shut and stormed out. “Fine. You better not come crawling back, begging me with tears in your eyes!” In our relationship, Kolt was always the dominant one, always in control. Every time we fought or gave each other the silent treatment, I was always the one to placate him, sweet-talk him, and make up. But not anymore. My phone chimed. My father had sent me profiles of potential fiancés. “My dear daughter, which one would you like to marry?” My eyes immediately locked onto a familiar face, Kolt’s sworn enemy, whom he hated to his core. The one he resented countless times but always had to treat with deference – his older half-brother, Ronnie Sterling. On the video call, my father picked up the file with a satisfied look: “Him? He’s doing quite well with his business abroad now, even on the verge of surpassing the Sterling family! I think he’s a good choice!” My mother smiled too. “Indeed! And coincidentally, your sister, Briar, just got engaged to their Kolt.” “Though Briar was switched at birth, she’s lived with us for over twenty years. This way, you’ll have an additional bond, and we won’t drift apart as a family.” It turned out that the one engaged to Kolt was none other than Briar, the fake heiress, with whom my life was swapped. I could tell my parents had deep affection for Briar. So when they suggested we wait until after her wedding to Kolt to announce my true identity and engagement, I didn’t refuse. After packing, I opened my door to leave, but a figure suddenly rushed in.

The woman raised her hand and slapped me hard across the face. “You’re that bitch who’s been trying to seduce my Kolt, aren’t you?” “Why don’t you look in a mirror and see what kind of trash you are? How dare you even dream of wanting my man!” “Let me tell you, if you know what’s good for you, stay away from Kolt! Otherwise, once I marry in, I’ll have plenty of ways to deal with you!” Briar’s arrogance blazed as she finished yelling and tried to slap me again. I blocked her arm, ready to slap her back. The next moment, Kolt rushed over, grabbed my wrist, and forcefully pushed me backward. Kolt snapped at me coldly: “Apologize!” I raised my still reddened cheek. “Can’t you see she hit me first? Why should *I* apologize?” Briar’s tears gushed out instantly. Feigning hurt, she threw herself into Kolt’s arms. “Kolt, your maid is so mean! I didn’t mean to, it’s just all the terrible things people are saying outside. As your fiancée, was I wrong to warn her?” Kolt dotingly wiped a tear from her eye, coaxing softly: “No, no, my little princess can do no wrong.” “There, there, sweetheart, don’t let some unimportant person ruin your mood. I’ll take you to your favorite steakhouse again, okay?” Back when Kolt had struggled with his mother, threatening suicide to bring me back, besides slashing his wrists, he’d also swallowed an entire bottle of sleeping pills. After having his stomach pumped and being revived, he’d developed a chronic stomach condition. It was so severe that just the smell of anything greasy would make his stomach spasm uncontrollably. I never thought he’d throw caution to the wind for Briar. Briar stopped crying, shot me a triumphant glare, then wrapped her arms around Kolt’s neck. “Okay, but first, I need a little kiss to make me feel better!” Kolt glanced sideways at me, pinched Briar’s chin, and kissed her deeply. Amidst wet, smacking sounds, long, lingering strands of saliva stretched between them. “Ugh, darling, you’ve got me all hot and bothered! I don’t want to eat anymore, I’d rather you…!” Hearing this, Kolt scooped up a limp Briar in his arms. His gaze landed on me, and a mocking sneer twisted his lips. “Alright, hubby, I’ll take you back to the room and let you have your fill!” “Oh, and Maid, remember to send up a few more boxes of protection for us! My Kolt is so strong; I’m afraid we won’t have enough!” It wasn’t until the sound of Kolt closing his master bedroom door came that it dawned on me: for all these years, Kolt had never allowed me into his room, except for cleaning. Perhaps my subconscious wanted to sever all ties. Before I knew it, I was standing at Kolt’s door, holding what they’d asked for. The moment I pushed the door open, Briar and Kolt’s voices seemed amplified a thousand times. Used tissues were scattered across the floor. Kolt was pressed against Briar in the bathtub. Her hands were pressed against the floor-to-ceiling window, and his face was lost in ecstasy. My eyes accidentally met Kolt’s in the mirror. His gaze hardened, and he stared at me, deliberately intensifying his movements. Water splashed, and what spilled out was clean water, but for some reason, I could still smell the blood from that year. “Leave the stuff and get out. This isn’t a place you’re fit to be!” It wasn’t until the door closed again, muffling the sounds behind me, that a wave of nauseating sickness and tears washed over me simultaneously. I’d changed my mind. I redialed my father. “Dad, Mom, I want to announce my identity and engagement sooner rather than later. Can we do that?” My parents were silent for a long time on the video call, then replied with a hint of disappointment in their expressions: “Alright. After all, you are our biological daughter. Your wishes come first.” “Coincidentally, Ronnie received the wedding invitation and will arrive in New York tomorrow. You two can meet tomorrow to discuss the wedding date, and then hold a press conference together.”

The next day, I met Ronnie at the restaurant he’d chosen. The last time I’d seen him was eight years ago, when Kolt successfully used his suicide attempt, and I returned to the Sterling family. After that, Ronnie went abroad and never returned to the Sterling estate. Compared to Kolt’s confident and flamboyant nature, Ronnie was still the cold and expressionless man I remembered. He was the first to speak: “Long time no see, Evie. I never expected you to be the long-lost daughter of the Hayes family.” “About the engagement, do you still need time to think it over?” I was about to answer when a cheer suddenly erupted from the large outdoor terrace outside the restaurant’s glass window. Kolt’s friends surrounded Briar, bringing her to the center of the platform. In the night sky, fireworks and a drone light show soared together, dazzling and almost blinding. The giant LED screen of the downtown skyscraper, directly opposite the river, suddenly lit up, then cycled through “Happy One-Year Anniversary, Kolt and Briar.” So, they’d been together for a year already. What was I doing exactly a year ago today? Some moments in time cannot be revisited. Once revisited, those hidden pains, once thought to be sealed by time, would suddenly resurface, gnawing at your flesh and blood. That day, I saw two pink lines on the pregnancy test and went to the hospital to confirm my pregnancy. I was feeling ecstatic, wanting to surprise Kolt, but on my way back to the Sterling estate, I was pulled into a van by masked men. A few masked thugs took me to an abandoned factory, brutally beating me with sticks. They then tore my clothes, taking degrading naked pictures. They originally had more sinister intentions. But when my unborn child slid out as a pool of blood, they assumed I was just bleeding from my period, called me “dirty,” and left. I desperately crawled to the road for help, clutching my stomach, hoping for a miracle. But when I woke up again, I only received a miscarriage report from the doctor. Actually, I wasn’t without opportunities to call for help then. When I was taken out of the van, I managed to break free and hid in the bushes while the thugs weren’t looking. Panicked, I pressed the tracker activation button on my ring, calling Kolt again and again. After he pressed reject a few times, he finally picked up. Noisy cheers and shouts came from the other end of the line. Before I could even speak, Kolt said, “I’m busy right now,” and hung up. Busy with what? Turns out, he was busy making things official with Briar. Thinking back to how I felt immense guilt towards Kolt for not saving our child, choosing to carry the burden alone. Recalling the nights tormented by endless nightmares, I suddenly wanted to slap myself. Perhaps I’d been on antidepressants for too long; it really seemed to have messed with my head. By the time I came back to my senses, Kolt was already on one knee in front of Briar, holding a ring. The people around them started cheering: “Marry him! Marry him!” My gaze returned to Ronnie. I said: “I don’t need to reconsider the engagement. However, I want the engagement announcement and the wedding date to be as soon as possible.” Ronnie raised an eyebrow at my words, and a slight smile played on his lips as he extended his hand to me: “Well then, shall we get married?”

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After six grueling years, my boyfriend, Brett, and I finally made our startup a success. That also meant I’d passed my parents’ test and was about to become the next heir to the family fortune. Tonight, I planned to introduce him to my parents and make our engagement official. But when I pushed open the office door, I saw a woman with one leg draped over his. She wore an ultra-short, body-hugging skirt. As her leg lifted, her red underwear was on full display. I froze on the spot. Brett didn’t even twitch. “Chloe sprained her ankle with me seeing clients today. I’m just rubbing it for her.” “You guys carry on.” I turned and walked away, remembering how my parents had never approved of Brett. Guess I wouldn’t have to convince them to accept him anymore. My friends used to joke about never coming home early from a business trip, saying you might find an “unexpected surprise.” I never thought it would become my reality. Back home, a beautifully wrapped gift box sat on the table. Even the vase was overflowing with fresh flowers. I thought Brett knew I was back early and planned a surprise birthday celebration. I carefully opened the box. A diamond ring lay quietly inside. Any lingering unpleasantness vanished. Damn it, how could I ever doubt Brett? Ten years of history—how could he possibly betray me? Humming a little tune, I busied myself in the kitchen. After preparing a romantic dinner, I took a hot shower and waited for Brett to return. Soon, I heard voices outside the door. “What gift did you get me?” “You’ll find out soon.” Brett appeared before me, with Chloe by his side. They paused when they saw me, then quickly composed themselves. “Chloe just landed a major project for the company. It’s her birthday today, and as her boss, I felt I should show my appreciation.” Brett spoke without a trace of remorse. I looked around, realizing I was the fool. I’d thought all this was for me. No wonder the roses weren’t my favorite yellow, but red. This place was never meant for me. “Mr. Brett, maybe I should leave. Aria doesn’t look too happy.” “Besides, Aria just got back. I shouldn’t interrupt your time together.” “There’s no ‘time together’ for us.” Brett chuckled. “Besides, Aria isn’t as petty as you think.” He looked at me. “Chloe is my subordinate at the office, but at home, she’s a guest. Aria, go get her a glass of water.” I stood up and started walking out. As I passed Brett, I couldn’t help but speak. “I’m not so ‘generous’ that I can ignore the lipstick stain on your face.” “Mr. Brett, you should really go after Aria. Don’t let me come between you two.” “If only she were half as understanding as you.” “Forget about her. Come see the surprise I prepared for you.” The door couldn’t block their conversation. I stood outside, tears streaming down my face. Brett, I trusted you so much… Clutching my chest, I sank to the floor, my breathing growing difficult. The door opened. Brett stood over me, looking down. “Come inside if you want an explanation.”

He turned and went back in, leaving the door ajar. His explanations meant nothing when weighed against what employees had already seen. I got up and left, arranging to meet a colleague from the company. “It’s not that I meant to keep it from you, Aria. It’s just… I didn’t know how to tell you.” “Just go to Chloe’s office; you’ll see.” Chloe had joined the company less than a year ago, but Brett had fast-tracked her promotion to department head, giving her a private office. On her desk sat a photo, next to an album. In the photo, Brett had his arm gently around her waist. Brett and I had an identical photo. Even the angle was exactly the same. I opened the album; Brett was in every single picture. Each photo brought back memories. The backgrounds were places Brett and I had been to together. He had taken Chloe on a tour of *our* shared history. “Aria…” “These photos are my personal belongings, you…” Unaware, dawn had broken. Chloe walked in, speaking, and I snapped back to reality. I stared at her. She didn’t dare continue, just lowered her head, looking tearful and wronged. Cheater? Playing the victim? Shouldn’t *I* be the one feeling wronged? “Are you resigning, or am I firing you?” Chloe cried and left. Soon, her savior arrived. “What’s with the scene?” Brett’s voice was ice cold. He was right. What was I doing? What right did I have to make a scene now that I was no longer loved? I stood to walk out, but Brett grabbed my arm, his tone softening slightly. “Chloe and I are nothing. Just a boss-subordinate relationship.” I stared at his face. “She does like me, that’s true. I invited her to my place yesterday to have a serious talk with her.” “As for those photos, you can take them to any expert. They’re clearly doctored.” “Stop this, Aria. Her talent is exceptional; she’s a real asset. That’s why I didn’t want to hurt her by rejecting her outright.” “Besides, you know her background. She’s Mr. Sterling’s daughter, not someone I just arbitrarily promoted.” She was the CEO’s daughter. And who was I? I looked at Brett. “You’re only ‘taking care’ of her because of her special background?” “That’s why you put her name on the project I worked on for half a year?” “Is that what you call her ‘merit’?” Brett’s expression soured. “You always said we should give new talent a chance. This is just making up for when we didn’t have any help starting out. She reminds me a lot of you back then, that’s why I wanted to help her.” “You know me, Aria. Don’t be so dramatic, okay?” I *used* to know him. But now, I didn’t. Years can change a lot. He was becoming a stranger. If he thought I was being dramatic, then I’d be dramatic just this once. “Fire her, or I leave the company. Choose one.” “You haven’t been yourself lately. If you want to take a break, take one. Think of it as preparing for marriage and kids.” “Aria, I only love you.” “Believe me or don’t, it’s your call.” Brett let go of me and turned to leave. I clutched my phone, staring at the dozens of missed calls. They were from my mom. I was supposed to take Brett to a party last night. I didn’t know how to explain any of this to my family. A leg massage, a lipstick mark, an elaborate ‘birthday’ surprise, and those photos—they weren’t solid proof they’d slept together. But my gut wrenched. This was a boundary crossed, a line I couldn’t accept. If I just introduced him to my parents, if he knew my *real* background, would he finally cut ties with Chloe? I hated the thought of him bowing and scraping for power. I fell for the Brett who always stood tall against anything. Maybe I *was* mistaken? He’d never bent the knee to any powerful person before. Even if he *thought* Chloe was the CEO’s daughter, he wouldn’t actually *submit* to her. I looked at the photos. Were they really doctored? BANG! The office door burst open. Brett stormed back in, his face dark. He’d never been angry with me before, but now, his eyes practically burned holes through me. I stared at him, wanting to know what had happened.

“What did you say to Chloe?” “Why did she suddenly quit, out of the blue?” “Now the whole company is buzzing about us. You show up, she quits—what’s everyone going to think of *me*?” “What do you take me for?” “There was nothing going on, but you making a scene like this will make everyone think Chloe and I really *are* together.” “Go apologize to Chloe right now and get her to stay with the company.” I looked at him. “Even if there’s nothing going on, I’m not comfortable with her in the company. Can’t you just let her go, for my sake?” Brett softened his tone, trying to rein himself in. “If a girl’s career was ruined because she liked me, do you think that’s fair?” “I’ve already rejected her clearly.” “Because I love you, I won’t stand by and watch you do something so selfish.” “If you still care about me, go get her back. I promise I’ll keep my distance from her after that.” “We’re getting married soon, stop this, okay?” “Just cool down for a bit. I know you’ll make the right choice.” Brett left. I went downstairs to the coffee shop and met Chloe. She dropped her demure act, her eyes challenging me. “Looks like Brett made his choice. He couldn’t bear to let me leave.” As she spoke, she gently stroked the diamond ring on her left ring finger—the same style I’d seen yesterday, the one I thought Brett had bought for *me*. Now, it was on Chloe’s hand. I’d lost this competition. I’d been so naive, believing Brett only cared about me, thinking Chloe was just harassing him. I’d even specifically arranged to meet Chloe, wanting to have a serious talk with her. In the end, I was just the fool. “I wish you both happiness.” Chloe frowned, watching my retreating back. “I thought she’d make a scene. That way, we could really make a splash and let the whole company know Brett and I are together.” “How boring.” She pouted, then also stood up and left. Silently, I went upstairs and packed my things. Brett had chosen her, so I’d leave. Half an hour later, I wandered aimlessly through the familiar city, suddenly not knowing where to go. I passed the small restaurant Brett and I used to frequent, the river where we had our dates. This city held too many memories of us. Before, they were beautiful. Now, they were sharp knives, piercing my heart. What did I do wrong? To let a ten-year relationship just… fizzle out? Or was it that after losing my youth, I simply couldn’t compete with youth itself? I wanted to get completely drunk, then bid farewell to the past. Late at night, I unconsciously found myself in front of an old building. It was dilapidated but the rent was cheap. Brett and I lived here when we first started out. The space was tiny, but it overflowed with our happiness. After we made money, we bought the apartment to remember our humble beginnings. Whenever we were tired, we’d come here to rest, reminiscing about our sweet past. I didn’t know why I was here, maybe I was drunk, maybe I was just yearning for what used to be. When I opened the door, someone was already in the cramped space. Brett was on top of Chloe. He’d brought her back to the sacred place of our memories

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To buy a New Year’s gift for my brother, I took a part-time job, only to be drugged on my way home. When I woke up, I was a bride-to-be. The traffickers, to prevent me from crying for help, lied to the buyers that I had severe mania and had to wear a hood and a gag until the wedding night. Locked in the room, I fell into despair, until my simple-minded “husband” secretly snuck in. The moment our eyes met, we both froze. When I woke up, the world was pitch black. A thick black hood was pulled tightly over my head, and my mouth was stuffed with a rag. The sedative hadn’t fully worn off. My mind felt fuzzy, and all I could hear was haggling coming from outside the door. “My girl here, she’s got some issues in the head, bites sometimes, but she’s strong, healthy. $30,000, not a penny less!” That was Sheila, the trafficker who’d kidnapped me, a middle-aged woman with yellow teeth, now pretending to be my “mother.” Then, a submissive, flattering voice spoke up: “Alright! As long as you don’t mind our son, Milo, is a bit simple, $30,000 it is! We’ll pay it!” I was stunned. The one buying a bride was my mom?! “Mmph! Mmph!” I struggled like a madwoman, the iron bed clanging loudly against the wall. Mom! Don’t give her the money! It’s me, Chloe! I’m right here! I’m in the next room! “Hear that? The crazy girl’s acting up again!” Sheila lowered her voice. Despair washed over me like a tidal wave. “$30,000. Perfect. So, it’s a done deal then.” Sheila’s tone was light, clearly happy the money was in her hand. “Alright, money’s settled. I’ll head into town to get some supplies. My woman will stay here with the kid. First thing tomorrow, we get them married!” “Sounds good, sounds good! I’ll see you out!” Footsteps faded. I slumped onto the bed, my fingernails digging into the sheets. The despair in my heart was thick, suffocating. They left. They sold me off like a piece of livestock… to my own parents. I don’t know how long passed, but the door creaked open a crack. A goofy laugh floated in. “Hehe… Wife… My wife…” My body went rigid. It was my simple-minded brother, Milo.

A strong, sweet scent of Caramel Chews hit my nose. That was Milo’s favorite candy. Ever since we were little, whenever I had pocket money, I’d buy it for him. “Mmph… mph…” With the rag in my mouth, I could only make muffled gasps, shaking my head frantically, trying to get his attention. Milo seemed drawn to my movements. His goofy laugh stopped for a moment, and his footsteps padded to the side of the bed. “Wife… don’t move…” A chubby hand reached out, curiously touching the black hood on my head. The next second, without any warning, that hand grabbed the bottom of the hood and yanked it up! Blinding light instantly flooded in, my pupils contracted violently, and tears streamed down my face uncontrollably. Once my eyes adjusted, I saw the face before me. His features were a bit askew, drool hung at the corner of his mouth, but his eyes were clear as a child’s. It really was my simple-minded brother! Our eyes met. Milo froze. He tilted his head, staring at my face for several seconds, and the half-eaten Caramel Chew in his hand “plinked” onto the floor. I trembled with excitement, nodding desperately, tears falling like broken strings of pearls. Milo! It’s me! I’m Chloe! Help me! Go get Mom and Dad! Milo’s eyes suddenly widened, a huge burst of surprise on his face. He clapped his hands and jumped up: “Sister! It’s Sister!” “Sister’s back! Sister’s in the room!” In that moment, I thought the nightmare was over. However, the very next second, Milo’s actions kicked me from heaven straight into hell. He didn’t untie my ropes, nor did he pull the rag from my mouth. Instead, as if remembering something incredibly important, a sly, “I know the rules too” grin spread across his face. “Hehe, I know! Mom and Dad said this is a wedding game!” “Sister loves games too, so let’s play together!” What? My eyes widened in terror, a gut-wrenching sob tearing from my throat. No! It’s not a game! Milo! This is kidnapping! But Milo couldn’t understand my fear. He picked up the black hood from the floor and carefully pulled it back over my head. To prevent me from “cheating,” he even tied a tight knot at the back of my head! “Mom and Dad said the game rule is you can’t lift the veil, or it won’t work!” “Sister, hide well, and don’t make a sound! Milo’s going to find Mom and Dad to guess!” My vision plunged back into absolute darkness. Despair, like an icy hand, clutched my heart. I heard Milo happily run out the door, excitedly shouting in the yard: “Dad! Mom! Sister’s in the room! Sister has a black hood on! We’re playing hide-and-seek!” In the yard, my mom, Margaret, who was clearing dishes, paused, then let out a helpless, indulgent laugh: “That silly boy, he’s really fixated on his sister. Your sister’s away at college in the city, how could she be back now to play hide-and-seek?” “Go on, go eat your candy, don’t disturb your wife. They said your wife’s afraid of strangers, can’t handle too much noise.” Then, Sheila’s voice rang out, cold and sinister: “Milo’s just taken a liking to his wife! But the girl really can’t be seen right now. I saw her banging against the wall again just now. Probably her ‘mania’ acting up. This needs to be dealt with, otherwise, tomorrow morning’s wedding could turn into a real mess.” “Oh no, what do we do?” Margaret’s voice became anxious. “No worries, I’ve got some heavy-duty sedatives here. Even our wildest bulls would pass out. We’ll get her to drink it, and she’ll sleep soundly until the ceremony tomorrow, all calm for the wedding.” “Alright, alright! You’re so thoughtful! I’ll go feed it to her right now!” “Creak!” The door opened, and a familiar scent washed over me.

It was the smell of cheap laundry detergent mixed with years of cooking oil, the scent of my mother, Margaret, that I’d known since childhood! She was right in front of me! Less than three feet away! “Mmph! Mmph!” Fear and urgency drove me to frantic, instinctual struggles. The iron bed clanged loudly. Mom! Is that you? Listen to me! Listen to this sound! I’m your child, the one you raised! “This… this is too scary.” Margaret’s voice came from beside the bed, tinged with obvious trembling and fear. “Why is this girl shaking so much? Is she in a lot of pain?” “Don’t get soft now, this is just her sickness flaring up!” Sheila chuckled, reassuring Margaret: “Look at her thrashing around, how can we not tie her down? Quick, get it down her while it’s fresh!” Then, I felt the bed dip. Someone sat down. A rough, warm hand, through the black hood, gently cupped my neck. The calluses on her palm scraped against my skin, stinging, yet they made my tears burst forth. It was Mom’s hand! “Don’t be afraid, I’m not going to hurt you.” Margaret’s voice was right by my ear, so gentle it broke my heart. “Come on, be a good girl, the medicine will make you feel better. Drink the medicine, and tomorrow you’ll be married.” I won’t drink it! Mom! It’s a sedative! I shook my head desperately, the gag in my mouth made my jaw ache, I could only make desperate muffled groans. “Oh dear, with the hood so tight and her mouth stuffed, how are we supposed to get it down?” Margaret was at a loss. Sheila heard her and stepped forward. I felt a pincer-like hand, through the black cloth, clamp tightly onto my jaw! “I’ll do it. You go outside, so she doesn’t scare you.” At that, the fear in my heart exploded. Don’t go! Mom! You can’t leave! If you leave, I’ll truly have no chance! “Mmph! Mmph!” I unleashed an unprecedented will to survive, thrashing wildly, recklessly. I ignored the ropes cutting into my wrists and ankles, making my skin raw, and strained my body, slamming my head against the bed frame. Making loud “Thump! Thump! Thump!” sounds. The entire iron bed vibrated violently, as if it would fall apart any second. “Oh my goodness!” Margaret had never seen such a scene. Her hand trembled, the bowl clattered, spilling most of the liquid. Her face deathly pale, she stumbled back to the doorway, clutching her chest, still shaken: “Why… why did she suddenly go so crazy? This is too terrifying!” “See? I told you she was vicious!” Sheila pressed down hard on my shoulders, using her knee to pin my chest so I couldn’t move, then turned to Margaret with a smile: “You go out first! Close the door! Don’t let my simple-minded girl run into you!” “She’s shy, probably scared by your voice. I’ll just calm her down first!” “Alright, alright! Then I’ll leave it to you, ma’am! I… I really can’t watch…” Margaret was terrified by my frenzied state and dared not stay another second. “Creak!” The door closed.

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Drunk and reckless, I ended up in bed with Serena, the woman I’d secretly loved for years. It happened the same night her ex, the guy she always put first, left the country to pursue new ventures. The next morning, concerned about her family business’s reputation, she suggested we get married. So I buried every ounce of my true feelings and became her outwardly respectable, suitable partner. Through countless silent nights, we’d make frantic love, only to live like strangers the very next day. My friends all said I’d never break free from this relationship. I used to believe them. Until that day, when I found her second phone. While she was showering, a young guy sent a selfie. “Ms. Montgomery, thank you for the birthday gift.” He looked really young, dressed in clothes clearly beyond his usual budget, appearing a little uncomfortable. I stared at the screen for a long time. I knew there was someone else in Serena’s life, but I never expected *this* type. Beyond the sting of betrayal, I was honestly surprised by her preference. I probably shouldn’t have been prying into her privacy. A moment later, Serena walked out of the bathroom, towel-drying her hair. “Seen enough?” She snatched her phone, gave me a fleeting glance, and started getting dressed. Not a flicker of unease crossed her face, even after being caught red-handed. I knew exactly where her confidence came from: she held all the financial power. I was just the ‘kept’ partner, someone she’d settled at home, even though before our marriage, I was a promising concert pianist. I didn’t say anything about the photo. I had no standing to. Watching her prepare to leave, I spoke up: “Serena, I need to talk to you.” She adjusted her cuff, checked the time: “I have five minutes. The driver is waiting.” I knew where she was going, and my eyes dimmed. “Serena, I want to go back to work.” Serena turned, scrutinizing me for a moment. She pulled her checkbook from her handbag, signed a check, and handed it to me. “Isn’t being a full-time partner at home good enough? The outside world, with its pressures, isn’t really for you.” She turned to leave. I followed a few steps, my voice earnest: “I’m not afraid to start over. I could teach piano, or…” She didn’t have the patience to listen. In her eyes, I was already too comfortable being cared for, stripped of any ability to stand on my own two feet. Serena glanced at her watch, picked up her briefcase. As her hand reached for the doorknob, I urgently asked, “My father’s birthday dinner is on Saturday. Can you come?” She paused: “We’ll see.” The door closed softly. A few minutes later, the sound of a car driving away echoed from downstairs. The butler came up. “Ms. Montgomery will be in San Francisco for a few days, handling group affairs.” “Also, a batch of her clothes just arrived. Sir, should I send them for dry cleaning or will you handle them yourself?” He was well aware of the state of my relationship with Serena. In this house, he was our messenger. I sat on the sofa for a long time, then quietly said, “I’ll take care of it.” Serena didn’t like the chemical smell of dry cleaning. All her clothes, from suits to coats, were almost always hand-washed and carefully ironed by me. She was meticulous about every detail of her life. She hated fast food, demanded a perfectly tidy bedroom. For her, I learned cooking, organizing, and even flower arranging. She never truly saw me as an equal partner. This marriage was just a necessary formality for her family after an unexpected accident. I gradually became the perfect domestic partner. My life almost revolved entirely around Serena. But for me, she still felt nothing.

I looked at the check in my hand. Last year, my family’s business nearly went bankrupt, and my father suffered a heart attack from the shock. His monthly medical expenses were astronomical. Every time I visited home, my stepmother, Evelyn, would complain that I wasn’t getting enough support from Serena. “She’s the CEO of Montgomery Medical Group, a multi-millionaire.” “Jonah, you’re legally married. Shouldn’t you be sharing resources?” I forced a bitter smile. Serena’s resources? How could they ever be *mine*? Serena had no feelings for me; our relationship was always distant. This marriage had only physical intimacy, no emotional connection. She made it clear she had no intention of having children. Before every intimate moment, she’d remind me to take my birth control. I pulled open the nightstand drawer. Inside was an empty pill bottle. And a thick journal, chronicling every emotion I’d felt for Serena since I was eighteen. Ten years. I’d poured ten years of my life into this. I closed my eyes. This one-man show? I don’t think I can keep performing it anymore. I never waited for Serena to come home. My father had another heart attack and was rushed to the ICU. His condition was critical, requiring immediate surgery. I frantically dialed Serena’s number in the hospital corridor, but it went straight to voicemail. Just as I was about to give up, she picked up. Afraid she’d hang up at any second, I spoke quickly: “Serena, my father—” She cut me off, her voice laced with impatience: “Is it about the medical bills?” “I’ve told you many times, for emergency expenses, contact David. Jonah, are you listening?” I looked up, stunned, at the TV screen in the waiting area. The news report for today was playing: The CEO of Montgomery Medical Group booked out Disneyland for a private fireworks show, just to cheer up her lover. Under the dazzling fireworks, a young man sat in a wheelchair, a radiant smile on his face. And my wife, Serena, stood behind him, phone in hand, talking to me. I blinked, once, twice. After a long moment, my voice trembled: “Serena, where are you?” There was a pause on the other end, as if my question irritated her, but she still gave a dismissive answer: “Busy. If it’s nothing important, I’m hanging up. Contact David.” She didn’t notice the tremor in my voice, but the tenderness in her gaze as she looked down at the person beside her was blinding. My vision blurred—Serena could look like that? My stepmother, Evelyn, called from behind me: “Did you reach Serena? Without her support, this will be tough.” But her words caught in her throat as she saw the TV screen. After a long silence, Evelyn finally found her voice: “She’s in Los Angeles again.” “Jonah, I still can’t believe that when Serena was in a coma, this guy, Kyle, played a piano piece and woke her up.” “Even if it’s true, does she need to ‘repay’ him like this? She doesn’t even remember your birthday.” Evelyn grew more agitated, and seeing our family’s current situation, she started to cry. “But Jonah, you need to be rational. Now is not the time to clash with Serena.” I clenched my fist, my nails digging into my palm, yet I felt no pain. Clash with Serena? No, I wouldn’t. Not because ‘Mr. Montgomery’ knows how to act ‘appropriately.’ It’s because I had no standing whatsoever – an ignored partner, my title nothing but an empty shell. I looked at the fireworks on TV, and quietly said: “That kind of fireworks display must cost a fortune, right?” Evelyn didn’t understand what I meant. I lowered my gaze and called David.

Disturbing someone late at night is always ill-timed. David had been with Serena for years and held a special position. He also knew Serena couldn’t care less about her husband. So after I explained my purpose, his tone was cold and purely professional: “Mr. Montgomery, you’ll need to submit an application first. Funds can only be released after Ms. Montgomery signs it.” “Just like the wristwatch you wear, it needs to be registered for use.” “You understand the procedure.” I hung up, looking down in silence. After a long while, I looked up at my reflection in the glass, gently raised my hand, the wedding ring glinting on my finger. This was the only thing on my entire body that I didn’t need to ask Serena for, didn’t need to report to her assistant about. How utterly ironic. I blinked, dazed, and suddenly said, “Help me find a reliable buyer. I want to sell this ring.” Evelyn stared, “Jonah, are you serious?” I slowly turned around. In the empty hall late at night, my footsteps echoed clearly. I took a few steps, then stopped, and said with determination: “I’m perfectly sober. Never been clearer. I’m ending this with Serena.” Three days later, Serena returned home. Serena pushed open the bedroom door, finding me tidying my belongings. She put down her luggage, loosened her scarf, and sat on the edge of the bed, watching me. All these years of marriage, I had focused on managing this home – organizing, preparing exquisite meals. If it weren’t for the title of “Mr. Montgomery,” in Serena’s eyes, I probably wouldn’t be any different from a personal butler. For a long time, I didn’t speak. Serena was tired from her business trip; seeing my silence, she too remained quiet. She walked into the closet, took out a robe, and headed to the bathroom. While bathing, she probably assumed that, given my personality, I would have calmed down by the time she emerged, reverting to that respectable partner she expected. She was always so sure I’d stay trapped in this relationship. So when she walked out of the bathroom and saw my suitcase still in place, she decided it was time to talk. Serena sat on the sofa, casually flipping through a magazine. After a while, she looked up at me. “How’s your father doing?” “I’ve already spoken to David about that night.” She said it dismissively, without any hint of sincerity. I put down what I was holding and met her gaze in the mirror. The Serena in the reflection was exquisitely beautiful, with an extraordinary presence; she made even a simple robe look high-end. I looked for a long time, until my eyes began to sting, then calmly said: “Serena, we need to end this marriage.”

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