Category: English

I am the female lead’s best friend. In the original ending, the female lead paired me off with the wealthy second male lead, Ethan Cole. Ethan said, “If Chloe wants me to marry you, then I will grant her wish.” “But when Chloe changes her mind, we will divorce.” I swallowed the words on the tip of my tongue. I didn’t tell him that I had actually been secretly in love with him for many years. Nor did I tell him that the second male lead can ascend to the main role. We lived a lifetime of respectful distance. But unexpectedly. Long after the original ending, the female lead truly regretted her choice. She came back to Ethan: “I got divorced. Will you marry me?” 1 When I awakened, the story was nearing its end. Chloe Vance, the adopted daughter of the wealthy Vance family, overcame all odds to marry the auto mechanic, Liam Ryder. At the same time, the Vance family discovered Ethan Cole’s feelings for Chloe and urged him to find someone to marry immediately. So, Chloe introduced Ethan to me. She told me, “Don’t look at how fierce my brother seems; he’s actually very kind.” Chloe arranged for us to go to an amusement park, then found an excuse to run off. Before leaving, she mischievously pushed me forward. The moment I almost bumped into Ethan, he took a step back. I nearly fell. The moment Chloe disappeared. Ethan’s gentle smile vanished instantly. His rimless glasses reflected his cold expression. To be fair, he was the most handsome man I had ever seen. Refined, stoic, very “Daddy.” Unfortunately, Ethan and I were not a match. I was the plain female supporting character meant to highlight the female lead, while he was the wealthy, handsome second male lead with perfect specs. Everything about him was top-tier. Facing him, I didn’t even have the courage to confess. But I didn’t expect Ethan to nod. Without even looking at me, he said calmly, “Miss Summers, I can marry you.” I froze in place, my heart racing. I knew it was impossible. But people are always dazzled by meager hope. Fortunately, he quickly cleared up my confusion— “To me, if it’s not Chloe, it doesn’t matter who I marry.” “Since she wants me to marry you, then I will grant her wish.” Wow. So deeply affectionate. 2 When Ethan and I walked out of the amusement park, Chloe was still at the entrance. Seeing us finish so quickly, a trace of expected surprise flashed in her eyes. Ethan’s eyes lit up too. Chloe’s gaze went back and forth between Ethan and me several times. Then, she playfully punched Ethan’s chest with a bit of complaint. Her tone was complaining but coquettish. “Brother!” “Why didn’t you have fun with Sarah?” “She’s my best friend! Don’t tell me you don’t like her!” The light and shadow in Ethan’s eyes flickered, finally returning to dimness as he said: “I didn’t.” “I proposed to Sarah Summers, and she agreed.” Chloe was stunned. 3 Logically speaking, I shouldn’t have agreed. Anyone with eyes could see that Ethan only had eyes for Chloe. But I had just received a call from my parents urging me to marry last night. And this morning, I received a layoff notice. Average education, average job, average family background. If it weren’t for the Vance family urging marriage, and Chloe not wanting the “fertile water to flow into others’ fields,” I wouldn’t even be qualified to go on a blind date with Ethan. Let alone become Mrs. Cole. I am a vulgar person. Thinking that without love, marrying for money is also good. And, what if? Anyway, the female lead and the second male lead are destined not to be together. Just like that, life fast-forwarded to the day I married Ethan. From the moment the wedding invitations were sent out. My life welcomed its highlight moment. Relatives and friends came to visit, smiling fawningly. I suddenly became the proudest daughter in my parents’ mouths. My in-laws gave me a red envelope with a million dollars the first time they met me. Chloe looked at the pigeon-egg-sized diamond ring on my finger, bit her lip, and said: “Sarah, how could you pick such an expensive diamond ring?” “After all, it’s my brother’s money, not earned by yourself…” But her wedding ring was also bought by Liam. The difference was mine cost twenty million, hers two thousand. I didn’t mind her bossing me around. After all, if she was unhappy with me, Ethan might call off the wedding on the spot. I smiled bitterly and said, “Chloe, your brother married me just for show. The person he truly likes is still you.” “I envy you marrying for love, while I only have cold money.” The corner of Chloe’s eyes showed窃喜 (secret delight). “Sarah, you absolutely must not say that!” “I will absolutely never like my brother!” Ethan happened to hear that sentence when he arrived. The sorrow in his eyes was hard to dissolve. With a bit of spite, he took my hand: “Let’s go, Mom and Dad are waiting for us.” That day. Ethan drank a lot of alcohol. Cup after cup, he stared at Chloe. Stared until Liam’s face looked ugly, and my in-laws’ faces darkened. Soon it was late at night. We returned to the villa marital home. Ethan walked unsteadily. He fell onto the sofa, glasses falling off, collar open, his handsome face flushed. Handsome enough to make one blush. I understood Chloe’s intention in making him marry me even more. With me, there would be no other women. But Ethan didn’t look at me at all, which also allowed him to keep his chastity for her. Like now, he said: “Sarah Summers, I won’t do anything with you…” “Don’t hope for what you shouldn’t think about. Be your Mrs. Cole with peace of mind.” The disgust and disdain in his eyes were clearly visible. After speaking, his breathing soon steadied, and he fell asleep. I looked at his face with closed eyes, a bit dazed. If someone who really wanted to be his wife heard these words, she would be very sad. Of course, it’s not that I’m completely not sad. Because, I also once had a crush on him. 4 My friendship with Chloe began in the student era. Back then, I had met Ethan. Chloe and I were locked in a bathroom stall by a vicious female classmate. Liam climbed in through the window and rescued Chloe. They forgot about me. Ethan arrived a step late and only rescued me. I still remember, his eyes were full of me. He broke the mop blocking the door with his bare hands: “Don’t be afraid, I’m late!” No one had ever been so nervous about me. Only the moment his gaze touched me, he saw clearly who I was. Upon learning where Chloe went, the brokenness in the boy’s eyes made my heart ache. That night, I went back very late, and as soon as I entered the house, I got slapped. “Grown capable, huh? Coming back so late, whose bed did you crawl into?” My mom’s voice was very loud. Neighbors poked their heads out to watch the excitement. My explanation meant nothing to anyone. Later, Ethan made that female classmate apologize to our family. He did it for Chloe, and I benefited by association. My mom’s expression showed a moment of guilt. But she didn’t apologize for wronging me. Because of this incident. I started to have a crush on Ethan. I also secretly tested Chloe, asking what type Ethan liked. She tilted her head, smiling innocently: “Maybe someone like me?” I was stunned: “Aren’t you siblings?” After that time, Chloe seemed to deliberately get close to Ethan in front of me. Throwing herself into his arms, hugging his arm, or letting Ethan feed her. Ethan’s eyes were gentle as water, almost drowning people. What else didn’t I understand? To me, it was love at first sight. But his eyes never had me. The protagonist lives the protagonist’s life. The supporting character also lives her own life in the plot that doesn’t intersect with the protagonist. Graduating step by step, finding a job, going on blind dates. Not all crushes get a response. Not all likes have to be life and death. We ordinary people don’t have that much energy. That joy of youth. Long drowned in the boring daily rush.

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During my first week of college, I began having recurring dreams of two men. Both claimed to be my boyfriend. Every time I woke up, my entire body ached. I eventually went to see a campus psychiatrist. “It’s just stress,” he said with a gentle, slow smile as he wrote me a prescription. “Take these. They’ll help you fall into a deep sleep.” But after I started the medication, the dreams only grew longer. In the dreams, the other man would pin my wrists above my head and chuckle. “I told you to take it easy on her. If you go this long, she won’t be able to handle it.” 1 “Look at you… you’re so beautiful like this.” The hand resting against my collarbone was elegant, with long, slender fingers. I couldn’t see his face. “Aria, wake up!” Suddenly, someone shook me hard. My roommate, Chloe, was sitting on the edge of my bed, looking worried. she touched my sweat-drenched forehead. “Aria, are you sick? You’re burning up. Maybe we should go to the clinic.” I was lying in my narrow dorm bed, heart hammering against my ribs, my muscles screaming in pain. “I’m… fine,” I rasped, my voice sounding like I’d been screaming for hours. The clock on the wall ticked steadily. I moved my wrists; the lingering phantom pain from the dream felt terrifyingly real. Right before I woke up, those two men were debating exactly how to tie my hands so they could suspend me in front of the floor-length mirror… 2 This was the fourth time this week. Since moving into this dorm, the dreams had become a nightly occurrence. Two men. I could never see their faces. One was older, calm and composed. He wore expensive watches and had a voice so smooth it made my knees weak. A sophisticated predator. The other was younger. He spoke with a smile, but he was impulsive and aggressive. He never went easy on me. Both claimed they were my boyfriends. Both seemed hell-bent on breaking me. Every morning, I woke up so sore I had to use the bedpost for support just to stand up. “Aria, we’re going to be late for Anatomy. Are you coming?” Chloe asked, clutching her textbooks. I’m a med student—a firm believer in science and logic. I told myself these dreams were just the result of the intense pressure of freshman year. But I didn’t dare tell Chloe the details. She was the sensitive type; she’d probably freak out. 3 Friday afternoon. The anatomy lab was packed. Chloe had already snagged seats in the front row. “Aria, over here!” she called out. I was distracted, my mind still looped on the dreams, and I realized I had walked past her. As I tried to back up through the crowd, someone accidentally tripped me. I started to fall backward, books flying. Suddenly, a strong, firm hand caught me by the waist. “Careful. We wouldn’t want you getting wet before the lecture starts.” A low, slow laugh vibrated against my back. My legs nearly gave out. I had heard that exact voice—that exact tone—mocking me a thousand times in my dreams. Chloe mouthed a name to me: The TA. I slowly turned around. It was Silas Vance, a PhD candidate and the teaching assistant for our anatomy course. He was legendary on campus—brilliant, handsome, and completely untouchable. “Do you need a hand?” he asked, tilting his head. His dark eyes were filled with a knowing glint. I broke into a cold sweat. “No… I’m good. Thank you, Silas—I mean, Mr. Vance.” “Take your seat, Aria. Class is starting,” he smiled. I had never spoken to him before, yet the rumors about him were endless. Some said his “hobbies” were quite unconventional. The afternoon sun filtered through the high windows as Silas stood at the front of the lab in his white coat. He looked like a god cutting through the light. He pulled on latex gloves and picked up a scalpel. Chloe leaned in and whispered, “His dissection technique is famous. He’s so precise.” Silas seemed to hear her. He looked over and smiled at me. It wasn’t a warm look; it was an analytical, piercing gaze that made my skin crawl. I watched his fingers move with surgical efficiency. I couldn’t stop my mind from drifting back to the dreams. He moved exactly like the man in my nightmares—with that same effortless, terrifying control. I needed help. Real help. As soon as class ended, I fled the lab. 4 The university hospital was on the south side of campus. Friday was peak hours for the psychiatric department. I waited until my number was called. The office was quiet, bathed in the orange glow of the setting sun. I heard only the mechanical click of a mouse. A pale, elegant hand rested on the mouse. A luxury watch glinted on his wrist. Against the light, I could see his sharp jawline and broad shoulders. This was Dr. Elias Thorne, the university’s most renowned professor of clinical psychology. Young, brilliant, and devastatingly handsome. He practically radiated a cold, disciplined energy. “What seems to be the problem?” he asked softly. My heart skipped. That voice. It was the voice of the man who held me down in front of the mirror. “Student? Are you listening?” Dr. Thorne looked over the rim of his glasses. I licked my dry lips. He wasn’t even looking at my chart; he was leaning back, waiting for me to speak. “I… I’m sorry. I’ve been having nightmares. Every night for a week.” His expression became serious. “Nightmares? Any specific details?” I stammered, my face heating up. “They aren’t exactly… scary. They’re… suggestive. I’m being… toyed with.” A flicker of something—amusement? curiosity?—passed through his cool eyes. He leaned forward. “And what do you think is the cause?” “Stress? Lack of sleep?” “Do you feel tired when you wake up?” he asked, his voice low and soothing, pulling me into his rhythm. “Yes, Professor. Very tired.” He smiled knowingly and began writing a prescription. “It’s just stress. Don’t worry. I’ll give you something to help you sleep deeply. It’ll be over soon.” 5 That night, I sat at my desk looking at the bottle of sleeping pills. Chloe watched me, looking hesitant. “Did you see Dr. Thorne today?” “How did you know?” “Just a guess.” She looked away and handed me a glass of water. “By the way, Aria, I think Silas is a good guy. Don’t you?” “Maybe,” I muttered, swallowing the pill. I expected a dreamless sleep. I was wrong. The dream returned with a vengeance. Both of them were there. “She’s out of it today,” a cool voice said. “Take it easy.” The room was bright. I thought of Silas, but I had no strength to say his name. Then, a more mature voice whispered in my ear. “It’s okay. Just a routine check-up. I won’t hurt you.” I tried to struggle, but I couldn’t wake up. The air smelled of galbanum, citrus, and hospital-grade disinfectant. It was the scent of the two of them combined. “So cute,” one whispered before kissing me. I felt a sharp sting on my lip. The taste of copper filled my mouth. I felt like I was drowning, gasping for air like a fish out of water. A hand cupped the back of my head, patting my cheek. “Aria, breathe. You’re going to choke yourself.” Silas let out a frustrated laugh. “I told you to lower the dose. If she’s under for too long, she can’t handle it.” Thud! I woke up on the floor. I had knocked over the washbasin by my bed. Chloe’s sleepy voice came from above. “Aria? It’s the weekend. Why are you making so much noise?” “Sorry…” I mumbled. I felt weak, as if I’d run a marathon. Then I felt it. A stinging pain on my lip. I went to the bathroom mirror. My hair was a mess, my face was flushed, and there—right on my lower lip—was a small, fresh cut. A bite mark. I looked down at my wrists. Faint, reddish marks were beginning to bloom on the pale skin. My blood ran cold. This wasn’t a dream. 6 I was spiraling into self-doubt. Was I going crazy? Or was something else happening? “Aria, focus,” Chloe said. “We have an elective today. Attendance is mandatory.” Ten minutes later, I dragged my aching body into the lecture hall. Of course, we were late. “Latecomers, front row,” a voice commanded. I looked up. Silas. He was leaning against the podium, smiling. The room was silent; he had failed half the class last semester. No one messed with him. As he called the roll, he paused at my name. “Aria Vance. Why are you late today?” “I couldn’t get up,” I whispered. “Oh? Doing what?” “Exercise,” I stammered. Silas grinned. “Well, exercise only works if you’re consistent. Perhaps you need more… practice.” My face turned scarlet. Chloe leaned over. “He’s a catch, Aria. If I were you, I’d be thrilled.” I looked at her. Why was she acting like he liked me? “Why would I be happy about that?” She blinked and looked at her pen. “Oh, you’re just overthinking it…” 7 After class, Silas called me back. “Aria, come here. I have something for you.” He sounded strictly professional. I walked back to the podium. He pulled a small bag from under the desk. “What is it?” “Medicated patches,” he said, packing his notes. “For muscle strains. It’ll help you recover faster from your… exercise.” I froze. He glanced at me. “Chloe mentioned you were struggling. She’s working with my mentor now. She’s like my younger sister.” “Oh… I see.” I felt a wave of shame. I had been imagining conspiracies where there were none.

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Bianca Fairmont, the pampered princess of the East Coast elite, had the ultrasound pictures on her phone this morning. By afternoon, she’d terminated the pregnancy. I gripped the laminated surgery sheet, my hands trembling violently. All around me, her friends watched, their expressions a mix of superiority and mocking pity. “Declan Sullivan,” one drawled, her voice dripping with scorn, “you actually went through with it? Gave up your kid just because Frank Donovan said the word?” “Look at the big man’s face! He’s going to lash out, isn’t he?” another one giggled. But Bianca only melted into Frank’s arms, her voice a soft, sickening purr. “I told you I’d never have a child with him. Do you believe me now?” The icy mask Frank wore finally thawed. I wanted to rush forward, to demand an answer, to scream a condemnation, but my three sisters had me tightly secured. Stacey Harrington, the formidable eldest and the CEO of the Harrington empire, frowned. “Frank only smiles for Bianca. Declan, for God’s sake, show some restraint.” Theodora, our second sister, the celebrated concert pianist, shot a look of pure disgust my way. “He didn’t have your privilege, Declan. He’s worked for everything. You, on the other hand, the Harrington name could find you any woman you wanted.” Dr. Petra Harrington, the professor and youngest sister after me, shoved her finger right into my chest, forcing me back a step. “They are the real pair, Declan. They always were. Are you really going to force a child into a life where its parents aren’t in love? Don’t be cruel.” They locked me down in the guest house, determined to prevent me from interfering with the happiness of their golden boy. That’s when the system I hadn’t heard from in years finally broke its silence. “Host, primary mission detected as complete! Do you wish to return to your world immediately?” I sat on the rooftop balcony, my eyes unfocused on the sprawling city skyline, but my heart was doing a frantic, joyous drum solo. This whole bitter, grueling tragedy was finally over. … Theo was beside herself with rage. “What an absolute coward! Are you really going to resort to jumping off a building because a woman said no? What a failure you are!” But my focus was entirely on the system. “Harrington sisters and Female Lead affection rating detected at 90%. Task of having a child with Female Lead Bianca Fairmont complete!” “Activation of host body death will initiate immediate return to your world, securing your bonus and curing your cancer!” I crushed the rising hysteria of joy inside my chest. I was going home. I looked up, meeting Theo’s eyes. She was still furious, but then she glanced at her phone—and a small, genuine smile touched her lips. It was a smile I hadn’t seen directed at me in years. It was the smile she reserved only for Frank. Sensing my stare, she quickly snapped the phone shut, her expression hardening again. “What? Are you planning to use your death to frighten Bianca? How twisted is your heart, Declan?” “Frank has sacrificed so much. Why can’t you just let him be happy? Does his happiness cause you so much pain?” I dug my nails into my palms and laughed, a dry, self-mocking sound. If suffering looked like being the golden boy, circled by three powerful women, with the entire world laid at his feet, then I’d gladly sign up for a lifetime of that ‘misery.’ Seeing my ashen face, Theo suddenly sighed. “Just apologize to Bianca, okay? Don’t be so dramatic about this.” She moved to pull me back from the railing, but I gently sidestepped her. I offered a cold, thin smile. “Apologize for what? What exactly did I do wrong?” Theo’s hand froze mid-air, her patience dissolving into sharp irritation. “Declan! Don’t push your luck!” I closed my eyes. Even for a mission, I had genuinely loved them. Their sudden coldness had wounded me more deeply than I cared to admit. But now, it was irrelevant. “Just wait until Petra is named full professor, and then you’ll come with us and apologize to Bianca.” I didn’t hold onto a shred of hope for her or anyone else. I just quietly confirmed with the system. “If this body dies, I go back. Is that correct?” “Yes.” I let out a slow, steady breath, then looked down. No one was below. If I jumped, I wouldn’t terrify any innocent bystanders. Theo immediately understood my intention. She screamed my name. “Declan! What are you doing!” I ignored her. I simply fell. The wind roared in my ears, whipping my face painfully. A sickening lurch of gravity took hold, but deep down, a strange, overwhelming sense of liberation rushed in. The next second, I felt a savage grip around my waist. I was yanked out of the air by a pair of massive hands and slammed hard onto the roof. Theo’s bodyguard, hired at astronomical expense, was clearly worth every penny. Seeing that I was safe, Theo rushed forward and began clawing furiously at my face. “You’re insane! You are completely insane! I said one sentence, and you try to kill yourself? You’ve been spoiled into oblivion!” I muffled a sound of pain, consumed only by the frustration of my failed escape. I didn’t acknowledge her. Her fury escalated. “Is this another trick just to get attention? Stop with your pathetic little games!” I ignored her and pried her hands off. We stared at each other until the bodyguard, momentarily distracted by his walkie-talkie, broke his focus. I seized the chance, twisted away, and threw myself over the edge. “I jumped! Don’t blame the guard!” I yelled the words as I plunged into the void. “Declan!” Theo’s despairing shriek was too late. She and the bodyguard were a second behind. I closed my eyes, expectant, yearning for death. My own world had cancer waiting for me, but it was better than spending one more second here. But no. Instead of the brutal impact, I landed in something soft. A dozen hands immediately grabbed and secured me. “Easy, son! Life is precious! Why would you do this?” I looked down at the massive, inflatable fire cushion beneath me and let my head drop in complete, bitter failure. The commotion must have drawn the attention of a neighbor, giving the fire department just enough time to save my life. “You’re mad! Declan, are you completely out of your mind?” Theo’s eyes were bloodshot. She pushed through the crowd and stumbled, collapsing to her knees in front of me. “Did you hit anything? Where does it hurt? Talk to me!” My gaze landed accidentally on her. The usually impeccable Theo had lost one shoe. She was limping, and the entire right knee of her designer jeans was soaked in fresh, bubbling blood. She must have hurt herself rushing from the roof to the street. Before, I would have instantly scooped her up and rushed her to the nearest ER. Now, I felt only a desolate emptiness. I looked away. “What? Do I need your permission to die now?” 2 Theo froze, disbelief etching every line on her face. I scoffed, walked past her, and gave a faint nod of thanks to the firefighters. “Sorry for the trouble. Please, keep this quiet. I don’t want to cause any more trouble for my family.” “Especially since I don’t want my older sister screaming at me for ruining the family’s reputation.” Theo’s fingernails dug into her palms, her eyes dangerously red. I tilted my head, slightly annoyed. “Don’t worry, there aren’t many witnesses. I can pay for their silence. With my own money, of course. Nothing to do with the Harringtons…” “Declan!” She cut me off, her voice thick with a strange, wounded emotion. I was stunned to see a flash of genuine hurt on her face. “You’re the only son! You’re the youngest! By our parents’ will, the entire estate belongs to you! It should all be yours!” I couldn’t help it. A small, hysterical laugh escaped my lips. “Do you actually believe that?” Her body stiffened. The reality hit her: Frank Donovan was the one living in the Harrington mansion. I was the one relegated to a cramped, rented studio apartment. I looked at Theo, my expression flat, but a deep, sorrowful chill seeped through me. We both had talent for the piano. She was a prodigy, and when she was young, she took me on tour with her to train me. She’d patiently guide my hands on the keys. Now, she only offered me a cold shoulder and strict orders to defer to Frank in everything. Theo seemed to resign herself, bowing her head. Her voice was barely a whisper. “Just… wait until Frank finishes his lab work and gets his professor status, then you can move back in. Your room was converted into his lab, and his experiment is at a critical stage. You’ve always been the understanding one, Declan. You get that, right?” “Everything before was just a misunderstanding…” I didn’t bother to respond. I just stood up, staggered slightly, and walked away. I was an orphan before I was transported here. My life was precarious, and then a coughing fit sent me to the hospital, where I was diagnosed with a deadly, aggressive cancer. I was unconscious from the pain. When I woke up, I was here, in the body of a ten-year-old child. “Achieve a bond rating of 80% with the Harrington siblings and Female Lead Bianca Fairmont, and have a child with Bianca, then you can return to your world and be cured of cancer!” The system vanished, and I assumed it was a morphine-fueled hallucination. But I was small, undeveloped, and ten years old. I quickly adjusted. I had no ties in my old world. A healthy body here was a gift. Later, Theo and I rode home in silence. She tried to ease the tension by talking about trivial, funny things that happened before Frank arrived. It was the most warmth I’d felt in years. It was the kind of warmth that once made me consider failing the mission and staying forever. But then I brought Frank, a fellow orphan, home from my boarding school, and he stole every bit of Theo’s affection. My initial confusion turned to anger, then to desperate attention-seeking, and finally, to hysterical fits. All I got in return was: “Stop it, Declan. Look at yourself. You’re pathetic.” The car stopped outside the Harrington gates. I got out without a word. Theo’s voice, small and wounded, called out. “Declan, your sister is hurt. I can’t walk. Could you…” I cut her off, my face blank. “You’re hurt. Go see a doctor. What good does telling me do?” I pushed the front door open. Frank was sitting casually on the sofa, looking perfectly at home. Stacey and Bianca were seated at either end. Stacey was glaring at Bianca. “Frank has been so worried about you, he hasn’t eaten a proper meal in days. He’s thin. What kind of manipulative game are you playing?” Frank, ever the mediator, tried to calm them. “Stacey, Petra, I’m fine, really. It was all a misunderstanding. It’s resolved now.” I stood at the entrance, watching their tender family moment. I glanced down at my clothes, which felt cold and damp. 3 I touched my face. Wet. Hot. Real. God, I was actually crying. Theo limped in beside me, about to speak, but Frank rushed past her. “Theo, what happened to your leg? You—” I didn’t let him finish. I hit him. A single, hard fist to the jaw. Frank cried out, stumbling back and falling hard to the marble floor, looking up at me with utter incomprehension. Almost instantly, a powerful force clamped down on me. The bodyguard’s grip was like iron. The sudden, sharp pain in my arm forced me to my knees. Stacey gave a nod of approval to the bodyguard, then shot up from the sofa. She pointed a furious finger at me. “Declan Sullivan! We really did spoil you rotten! Apologize to Frank right now!” I was sprawled on the ground, spitting out a mouthful of blood and bile. “Apologize? What did I do wrong? I was betrayed by my fiancée, and I can’t even hit the man who slept with her?” Stacey’s voice grew sharper, more shrill. “What nonsense are you talking about? Frank and Bianca were always meant to be. You were never married! There was no official commitment! You don’t count!” “I’m ashamed to call you my brother! How can you be so utterly shameless?!” I laughed, a harsh, humorless sound. “Shameless? Don’t forget, Bianca was the one who promised me we’d get the papers after the baby was born! She toyed with my feelings. Who is the shameless one here?” Bianca stared at me, cold and venomous. “Thank God I never signed the papers. I had foresight. My family would never accept a weak, melodramatic man like you.” Petra lunged forward and slapped me hard across the face. “Declan! Apologize!” I didn’t speak. I just slowly scanned the faces in the room. Stacey’s eyes were cold. Petra’s face was twisted with disgust. Bianca looked like she wished I would spontaneously combust. Theo frowned, her lips moving silently, but in the end, she said nothing. It was the same look they’d given me three years ago, when Frank was exposed as my second sister’s obsessed fan, showing up at every concert. Theo, feeling sorry for him, convinced Petra to admit him to her university as a teaching assistant. To make Frank’s life easier, I was exiled from my home. My own room, the best room in the house, was converted into Frank’s private lab. “You have bodyguards wherever you go. Frank is alone. He needs to live here to communicate with Petra. Can’t you be an adult about this?” That was what they’d said when I screamed and begged. Their eyes then were the same as their eyes now. Today, I had no energy for an argument. I shrugged off the bodyguard’s hold and stumbled into the living room, grabbing the nearest thing—a massive, ridiculous crystal vase—and shattered it on the marble floor. I scooped up the largest, sharpest piece. Theo cried out, trying to rush forward, but Frank held her tight. “Declan, what are you doing?!” I looked at Frank, my expression mocking. “You wanted an apology, right?” I didn’t look at their terror-stricken faces. I was surgical, quick. A clean, practiced slash across my neck. Screams erupted from all sides. I laughed and I cried, the sound mixing together into a hysterical, broken noise. “I’ll give you my life. Is that enough? Are you happy now?” Warm, thick blood poured out. The dizzying, sharp loss of blood made it impossible to stand. In the cacophony of shrieks and commands, my vision tunneled to black. I saw the stunned faces of the women before I went under. Theo rushed forward and clutched me to her chest. “Call an ambulance!” I woke up to the sharp, stinging smell of disinfectant. The uniform white walls of the room made me dizzy. Was I back? I turned my head and saw Stacey’s exhausted, worried eyes staring back at me. I closed my eyes in bitter disappointment. I was still here. I was utterly drained. Stacey bristled at my reaction. “Declan! When did you learn to pull this pathetic woman-act?” Irritated, I caught the source of a sickeningly sweet, cloying aroma. It was a small, ornate vial on the bedside table. I instantly grabbed it and threw it against the wall. I had personally crafted that essential oil blend for Petra. She was consumed by her academic work, exhausted all the time. I spent six months apprenticing with a master herbalist to get the formula. But when Frank moved in, he stole my formula and claimed it as his own. Petra had proudly showed it off to everyone. “My sweet brother made this just for me. He’s so thoughtful.” Petra walked in just in time to see the vial arc gracefully through the air before shattering. She looked up, eyes narrowing in disbelief. “Declan, you just threw away the scent?” 4 I barely frowned, my voice flat and devoid of emotion. “I’m a patient. That cloying garbage makes me sick. I threw it out. What of it?” Petra’s chest heaved, and she pointed a trembling, accusing finger at me. “Declan, you are heartless! You are a spoiled, ungrateful snake!” “It’s no wonder Bianca chose Frank over you. You—” “Petra!” Stacey’s deep voice cut her off. Petra glared at me, her eyes red, waiting for even a flicker of remorse or sadness in my expression. She found only emptiness and despair. Shaking with anger, Petra’s voice turned desperate, hysterical. “Frank made that for you! Frank worked tirelessly! How can you be so ungrateful!” I was unmoved. “I was the one who brought the formula to the house. I can easily make him another one.” My calmness utterly enraged her. She grabbed the pillow from my hospital bed and slammed it against my head. “Stop your posturing! Do you have any idea how complicated that blend is to make? Fine! You think you’re so capable? You make it!” Stacey moved to intervene, but Petra stopped her with a sharp glance. Clearly, they all agreed this was a good opportunity to break my spirit. I smiled, a cold, empty upturn of my lips. I knew exactly how complicated it was. It required two days of continuous, minute monitoring—no breaks, no sleep, not even for meals or the bathroom. The precision was staggering. They were convinced I was bluffing. Petra locked me in her home office. I began the grueling, continuous work of blending the oils. I hadn’t eaten, and soon, sweat poured down my face. I could barely hold the delicate scale. When I finally finished, the effort was too much. My head was throbbing with fever, and I collapsed onto the table. Outside, I could hear their cheerful voices. They were celebrating Frank’s successful experiment and his promotion to professor. Frank played the humble role. “Maybe we should invite Declan out. I mean, my experiment wouldn’t have been successful if he hadn’t let me use his room…” Stacey scoffed immediately. “Don’t bother! Your success is yours alone. It has nothing to do with him!” “What if he shows up and ruins your celebration? He’s capable of anything!” Petra chimed in. “Exactly! Let him focus on the blend. It will calm his restless mind. We’re doing this for his own good!” I heard their words in a confused haze. I gave a cold laugh. I picked up the small, sharp pruning scissors from the blending kit. I didn’t hesitate. I plunged them into my heart. The blood surged out, but I felt a sudden, exhilarating lightness. Then, Theo’s gentle knock came from the door. “Declan, are you finished? The time is up.” I couldn’t even find the strength to speak. Petra’s impatient voice followed. “Ignore him! He’s just looking for attention! We have to break this habit of his!” Theo sighed, her footsteps clicking away. I finally closed my eyes in triumph. My soul floated free. A second later, the door was slammed open. Stacey, her face thunderous, burst in, followed by Theo and Petra. “Declan, you are so—” Her voice died in her throat. The floor was covered in a shocking pool of scarlet.

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At my best friend’s bachelorette party, we played “Never Have I Ever.” I raised my only remaining finger and delivered the final blow: “Never have I ever dated a billionaire heir.” Someone teased me: “Every rich kid in Manhattan calls themselves a prince. Which one did you date?” “Upper East Side. Last name Sterling.” Silence fell over the room instantly. My best friend’s fiancé spoke up quietly. “So the girl who dumped Julian Sterling back then… was you?” 1 My vision was already blurring. I struggled to keep my eyelids open and asked Mark, sitting opposite me, “How… do you know his name? Do you… know him?” He snapped out of it, fiddling with his phone as if nothing happened. “Don’t know him. But I know there’s only one Sterling family on the Upper East Side.” “Right, that’s the one.” My best friend, Chloe, leaned in, eager for gossip. “If he’s a billionaire heir, his family must be loaded, right?” “Mhm,” I gestured with my hands. “His family’s backyard has a whole private garden with a fountain. The kind you can host weddings in.” “Woah! A private garden in the Upper East Side? That’s not just rich, that’s old money! By the way, was he good to you?” “Good. Really good. Thanks to him, I finished college smoothly.” “So… was he handsome?” A face as exquisite as a renaissance painting popped into my mind. I nodded. “He could give Hollywood stars a run for their money.” That’s why they say you shouldn’t meet someone too amazing when you’re young. It raises the bar for love impossibly high. Everyone else becomes a compromise. Chloe sighed. “Handsome, rich, and good to you. Why on earth did you dump him?” I was silent for a few seconds. “Well… I wouldn’t call it dumping him. You know, families like that rarely accept a girl with a background like mine.” Mark suddenly got interested. He tossed his phone on the table and jerked his chin at the others in the private room. Everyone present, except for Chloe and me, were Mark’s friends from New York. They exchanged glances and instantly understood. One by one, they left the terrace to play poker downstairs. Only Chloe, Mark, and I remained on the terrace. He poured me a glass of wine. “Tell us more. Did his mom force you out?” Not exactly. With her status, she didn’t need to use underhanded tactics on me. She just… made me face reality. It was near graduation. Julian was planning a trip for us and asked where I wanted to go. I saw a TikTok about Iceland’s volcanoes and glaciers being beautiful. Excitedly, I showed it to him. But I heard him on the phone. His tone suppressed annoyance. “I’m very busy lately, no time to come back.” … “She’s busy too, dealing with internships and her thesis.” … “Stop saying these things. Don’t call me again if it’s just this.” He hung up and turned to see me. The hastily lowered eyelids couldn’t hide his panic. I was anxious. “Was that your family?” “Yeah.” “Should you go back and check?” “No need.” He saw the video on my phone and changed the subject. “So, decided where to go yet?” We had just set the date for Iceland. On my way home from work, a car blocked my path. The window rolled down slowly, revealing a glamorous and dignified face. “Hello, Miss Jensen. I’m Julian’s mother.” I glanced at the license plate. Not something an ordinary family could own. Mrs. Sterling smiled. “Don’t be nervous. I just want to invite you for a casual dinner. I mentioned it to Julian, but he said you were busy, so I had to come personally.” I stood frozen. I looked down to call Julian. “Julian is at a business dinner right now. It’s best not to disturb him with small matters.” One look from her, and two bodyguards stepped out. One took my phone; the other “invited” me into the car. I had no choice but to follow. The Sterling mansion was on the Upper East Side. Through the window, I could see the expansive private garden. I realized his family wealth was far beyond my imagination. In the living room sat another woman. Mrs. Sterling introduced us with a smile on her lips. “That is Miss Vance. Julian’s fiancée.” Looking at the woman who shared a similar aura with Julian. I was stunned, unable to take a step. When did this happen? How did I not notice a thing? Seeing my pale face, Mrs. Sterling’s smile deepened. “What? Julian didn’t tell you? They’ve been engaged for a long time.” “Well, no need to tell outsiders about family matters.” She left me and walked towards Miss Vance. “Is this the one Julian is keeping on the side? She looks decent.” Mrs. Sterling nodded, seemingly praising me. “The girl is quite ambitious. Heard she’s the valedictorian of her class. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have caught Julian’s eye.” Miss Vance glanced at me indifferently. “Heard she’s from a small town in the Midwest? How did they meet? Is her background clean?” “Don’t worry about that. Julian doesn’t mess around. There’s a reason for it, so I didn’t interfere too much.” “Julian’s father fell down a slope while hiking in the mountains years ago. This girl ran down the mountain to get help.” “He left her a contact number, saying she could ask for help anytime. She never called. Later, when she turned eighteen, her family tricked her back home, locked her up, and tried to force her to marry for a dowry. Desperate, she called that number. Julian picked up. Lucky girl.” “After that, Julian started sponsoring her. Until she came to New York for college and they met. That’s how it started.” Miss Vance smirked. “With such a deep bond, I feel like the intruder.” Mrs. Sterling chuckled lightly. “She’s from the mountains; she lacks sophistication. For knowing when to advance and retreat, it has to be you. Julian knows this too. Otherwise, he wouldn’t be hiding her away, afraid to bring her out to meet people.” “I don’t care about the past, but since we’re discussing marriage, how does Julian plan to handle her?” Mrs. Sterling remained calm. “Julian sponsored her for so many years. If she knows gratitude, she’ll know what to do. If not, there’s me. I can handle a small matter like this without bothering Julian.” Their conversation drifted clearly into my ears. My chest felt heavy. Breathing was difficult. So, Julian’s irritability and panic were because of this. He was about to marry someone else and didn’t know how to tell me. The row of bodyguards behind me was like a wall. I couldn’t even run away. Miss Vance showed a hint of a smile. “With you handling it, Auntie, I’m relieved. By the way, I bought some vintage wine in Spain recently. You should try it.” This meant the deal was done. Mrs. Sterling smiled, signaling dinner to be served. “Tonight’s main course is fish. It’s the season for it…” They chatted away. I held on to my dignity and excused myself. Mrs. Sterling looked over indifferently. “Since Miss Jensen won’t do us the honor, I won’t force you.” This time, the bodyguards didn’t block my way. I went home and packed my things. Planning my way out. This apartment was bought by Julian when I started my internship to make my commute easier. After breaking up, I had no reason to stay. Luckily, housing wasn’t hard to solve. More than two months until graduation. I could apply for company housing early. Iceland was off the table. I comforted myself. It’s so cold there anyway, nothing to see. I kept a ledger of Julian’s financial support over the years. I’d organize it later. Pay back what I can now. The rest, I’d save up and pay him back in installments. After all, we had feelings for a few years; he wouldn’t be so heartless as to demand immediate repayment upon breakup. What else? I listed the things I needed to separate from Julian one by one. The list got longer and longer. My emotions collapsed when my gaze landed on the ring on my hand. He gave me this ring, promising we’d marry after graduation. I sat on the floor, sobbing until I gasped for air. My fingers shook so bad I couldn’t get the ring off. The electronic lock beeped. The door was yanked open. Julian’s chest heaved violently, knuckles white. Seeing I was still there, he took a deep breath and silently closed the door. He walked in, took the clothes I packed out of the suitcase, and hung them back in the closet. I took them down. He put them back. After a few times, I exploded. I rudely stuffed the clothes into the suitcase. “Julian, let’s break up.” He was silent for a long time, then spoke: “I never liked Chloe Vance, and I never got engaged to her.” “That was their decision, not mine.” I didn’t speak, still packing. He came over and pressed my hand. “Sarah, I love you.” I froze, meeting his red eyes. Only then did I see. His shirt was stained with wine. His face was flushed, with a faint slap mark. In that moment, the pain for him outweighed my own. I touched his face, forcing a smile. “Julian, I’m fine. Being with you these years, I came out ahead. You… you should listen to your family and marry Miss Vance…” He pulled me into his arms, holding my waist tightly. “I won’t. No one can force me.” He choked up, throat bobbing several times. “Sarah, we aren’t breaking up. I can handle it. Trust me.” Hugs give people strength. Holding Julian, I suddenly didn’t want to overthink anymore. Things hadn’t reached the worst point yet. Mrs. Sterling couldn’t convince Julian. So she came for me. I thought for a moment and nodded. “Okay.” “We’ll stick to the plan. Iceland in a while.” “Okay.” But what came faster than Iceland was his transfer notice. I received the message and rushed home. Julian had already packed. Behind him stood two familiar bodyguards. My eyes reddened instantly. “Why are you being transferred out of New York all of a sudden? Is it because of me?” He put down his luggage and comforted me. “Don’t cry. It’s a normal organizational rotation. I’ll be back in two years.” I sobbed, intermittently: “So… where are you going?” He lowered his head, silent for a while before spitting out a place name. I hadn’t heard of it. I searched on my phone. A remote, desolate town, thousands of miles from New York. Surrounded by mountains. I understood instantly. This was his mother’s warning. I pushed him away, trembling, tears streaming down my face. “Go back to the Upper East Side right now. Tell her you accept the arrangement. It’s just a marriage? You can…” “Sarah!” Julian interrupted me sharply. “I don’t care, but you want to give up on me because of this?” We had been together for over two years. He had never been this harsh with me. I knew he was truly angry. When Julian confessed to me, I hesitated too. With our relationship, being friends was hard enough. I owed him more and more; we were never equals. I shouldn’t have mixed feelings into it. But he was stubborn. He only asked if I liked him. He was the gentleman who saved me from danger. How could I not like him? He sighed in relief. “I like you, you like me. There’s no better reason to be together.” I slowly realized that as long as two people love each other, nothing else matters. Until that day I met Chloe Vance. That relaxation bred by money and superior background. I would never possess it in this lifetime. I cried and apologized, “But I really don’t want to drag you down.” He took a deep breath, softening his tone. “You aren’t dragging me down. I always wanted to escape my mother. This is the best chance. I must go. Will you wait for me?” I didn’t speak. “Will you wait for me?” He lifted my chin, looking into my eyes, forcing an answer. “…Mhm.” Red-eyed, he pulled me into his arms and kissed my forehead. “The infrastructure there isn’t great, cell service is spotty. I’ll write letters if I miss you.” “Mhm.” “Stay here and wait for me obediently. Just two years.” 2 But actually, that was the last time we saw each other. One month after Julian left. I received his letter. He told me he was doing well. Although remote, the people were simple and honest, and the scenery was nice. He occasionally went to villagers’ homes to teach kids how to read. [Sarah, work hard, live well, don’t think about anything else. Two years later, I’ll come back to marry you.] Mrs. Sterling found me again. Her expression was meaningful. “Don’t think you’ve won.” “He thinks he can sacrifice his future for you now, but look again in three or five years.” “When those with less background than him climb much higher than him, he will blame you. Blame you for not leaving cleanly back then, for dragging him down.” “You think love can overcome all difficulties? Wrong. In the end, you’ll only resent each other.” I couldn’t refute her. It was almost summer. Yet I felt a bone-deep chill rising from my back, spreading through my body. I forced myself to go home. Someone unexpected was waiting at the door. Chloe Vance threw a few photos at me and asked, “Want to see Julian? I’ll take you.” New York to Cangping was over two thousand miles. Even flying took hours. After landing, Chloe’s people drove us into the mountains in an SUV. The car drove for a long time before stopping by the road. Chloe pointed to the crowd by the shallow river at the foot of the mountain. “There, Julian is there.” I remembered the first time I saw Julian. Broad shoulders, narrow waist, standing at our university gate in a crisp suit, not a single wrinkle on his pants. Such a beautiful, exquisite man, even in a crowded place, was dazzlingly impossible to ignore. And now, I clung to the car window, squinting to identify him. He was tanned. Helping some villagers catch a pig. Inexperienced, he was knocked over by the pig several times. His pants were muddy, his shirt wrinkled. Just as dusty and dirty as in the photos Chloe showed me. For the first time, I felt he looked pathetic. My nose stung, tears falling patter-patter. How could he be so pathetic? Chloe looked on with a sigh. “Among the wealthy heirs of this generation in New York, Julian is the most capable. My dad says Julian’s future achievements might even surpass his mother’s.” “For Mrs. Sterling to sit in her current position, she is definitely not a soft-hearted woman. She won’t compromise just because she sees Julian suffering. I’ll be straight with you: if he keeps messing around, Mrs. Sterling will abandon him.” She rolled down the window and lit a cigarette. “Honestly, Sarah, I don’t want to interfere between you two. But I’ve enjoyed the benefits my family provided for so many years; I can’t flip the table when the family needs me.” “Julian doesn’t understand this. He flipped it completely, but what’s the result?” “He was so glorious in New York, so many people bowing and scraping to please him. Now he’s reduced to this, helping people catch pigs today, finding lost dogs for villagers tomorrow. Sarah, are you happy seeing him like this?” “I have no love for him, so I don’t understand. Is love really more important than a person’s future? If you think so, you can go down and find him. The Song family has no need to marry someone abandoned by Mrs. Sterling.” I braced myself against the window, fingertips trembling unconsciously. Not far away, Julian and the others finally caught the pig. The villagers tied the pig up and carried it back. Julian remained, bending over with hands on knees. Like a bamboo bent under pressure. After catching his breath, he followed them. After a few steps, Julian suddenly looked up in this direction. There were many trees on the mountain; he didn’t notice the car. He turned his head and continued walking. The sun set in the west. I withdrew my gaze and said calmly, “Miss Vance, let’s go back.” “Are you sure?” “…Sorry for the trouble.” Chloe didn’t speak again, signaling the driver. She had gotten the answer she wanted. In the rearview mirror, Julian’s figure grew smaller and smaller. Mountain wind poured in, very cold. The car turned a corner. That mountain village disappeared completely. I closed my eyes, coolness seeping into my temples. Back in New York, packing my things took only two days. Before leaving, I cleaned the apartment spotless. As if I had never been there. Sitting on the high-speed train to Shanghai, I thought the breakup letter should be arriving soon. That summer, everything related to Julian Sterling came to an abrupt halt. For the next six years, I saw no news of him, heard not a whisper. I worked, started a business, busy surviving. Rarely had free time. I occasionally dreamt of him. Waking up, I would zone out. Longing is a long rainy season. In the humid haze, I could never wipe dry the part about Julian. So much so that for many years after, I lived in regret. If only I could have said goodbye properly. The atmosphere sank into silence. I wiped my tears, apologizing repeatedly. “Sorry, on such a happy day, I brought everyone down.” Mark stared at me for a while. Picked up the wine bottle and poured for me again. “Tonight is a truth session. Sarah, drink up! I have plenty.” Chloe glared at him. “The wedding is tomorrow. If she gets drunk, where am I going to find another bridesmaid? Too late to call someone.” “Relax wifey, hubby has it handled, OK? Sarah, back to the point, do you… still like him? Still want to be together?” I tilted my head and thought seriously, nodding. “Like.” Then shook my head. “But, can’t be together.” He’s probably married with kids by now. Besides, even if not, the problems from back then still exist today. I haven’t lost touch with reality after six years. Night wind squeezed through the terrace door crack. Moist, warm, carrying the specific tenderness of New York spring, like a lover’s caress. Warm wind plus alcohol went straight to my head. I soon felt dizzy. In my daze, I heard someone on the phone. Voice fading in and out, with inexplicable excitement. “Giving you a chance, get your ass back from Lanshi!” “I swear it’s her!” “If I’m lying, I’ll call you daddy!” 3 When the alarm rang. My head still hurt. Struggled to get up, shower, and change. Chloe called. “Honey, come down when you’re ready. Mark called his friend to pick you up. Makeup at the studio first, then back to the hotel together.” “No need, send me the location, I’ll take a cab.” “You came all the way from Shanghai to be my bridesmaid, how can I let you take a cab!” I had to hurry, changing shoes and taking the elevator. “Is it too much trouble for them…” “It’s fine, Mark says they’re tight. Rarely back in New York, gotta make use of him—” Elevator descended to B2, opened with a ding. Chloe’s voice echoed in the quiet parking garage. “—Mark sent the info, his friend is waiting in Zone C. License plate Lanshi BM0628, grey Touareg.” I paused. 0628, my birthday. “His friend… is he from New York?” “Yeah, but works in Lanshi. Said he couldn’t make it, but suddenly changed his mind last night…” While talking, I saw the person leaning against the car door. Head down, checking messages. I couldn’t see his face clearly. But my heart raced inexplicably, mouth dry. I hung up quickly. Turned to leave immediately. The person heard the noise. Put away his phone, took a long step. “Sarah Jensen, where are you going this time?” My back stiffened, turning like a puppet with rusted joints. The man in front of me had lost the sharpness of his youth. Even in casual clothes, he looked more composed and introverted. I quietly took off the ring on my right hand. Forcing a dignified smile, I extended my hand. “Hello Julian, long time no see.” He looked down at it, suddenly chuckled. “We know each other well enough, no need to be so polite. Let’s go, you’re the bridesmaid, don’t be late.” He acted naturally, but didn’t shake my hand. My heart felt empty for a second. Unsure if it was relief or disappointment. Taking a deep breath, I got into his car. Door closed, world silenced. Julian didn’t start the car immediately. I pretended to be calm, texting Chloe. [Did I embarrass myself last night?] She replied fast: [Nope. You just told the story about you and the prince of New York. Quite moving.] I closed my eyes. Might as well have embarrassed myself. “Have you been well these years?” The person beside me spoke suddenly. Startled, I almost dropped my phone. Steadying myself, I exchanged pleasantries, pretending to be carefree. “Pretty good, you?” Julian gripped the steering wheel, silent for a long time. Long enough to make me panic. He finally started the car. “Not too good.” 4 The whole wedding, I was out of it. When the bride and groom exchanged rings, someone nudged my arm before I snapped out of it. Hurriedly took the rings out of my bag to bring on stage. Accidentally stepped on my dress. Thought I was going to make a fool of myself. An arm extended from behind to steady me. I turned, thanking him with a blushing face. “No problem.” Julian politely withdrew his hand and retreated into the crowd. Mark on stage smiled mischievously. “Bro, you’re here too?” Julian glanced at him coolly. Full of warning. Mark shrank back, daring not provoke him further. I stood on stage, feeling that gaze bypass Mark and land on me. Focused, certain, calm as the deep sea. Guilty, I didn’t dare lift my head. After the wedding, I was just saying goodbye to Chloe and Mark, saying I had things to do. But Mark’s mom pulled me over to introduce me to Julian. “This is Sarah Jensen. She started a company with our Chloe. You know ‘Glimmer’? The hottest female community platform right now, Sarah built it from scratch.” Then turned to me. “Sarah, this is my godson Julian Sterling…” “Ahhhhhhh!” Chloe suddenly lifted her dress and screamed, jumping. “Ju-Ju-Ju-Ju… Julian Sterling? THE Julian Sterling from the Upper East Side?!” Mark’s mom was confused. “What’s wrong? Hearing his name like a cat stepping on hot bricks.” Julian’s lips curved slightly. “Sister-in-law probably heard some stories from Miss Jensen.” Mark’s mom’s eyes lit up. “What, you knew each other?” “Mhm, we used to date…” “Mr. Sterling sponsored me when I was in college. We often discussed my coursework, mhm.” I interrupted, signaling Julian with my eyes to stop. No need to dig up the past, causing trouble. Julian looked at me, face a bit cold. “Yes Godmother, later I dated Miss Jensen for a few years. When she graduated, I happened to be sent to the countryside, so she dumped me.” I didn’t expect him to be so blunt. He was stating facts. But logically, it sounded like I was an ungrateful woman who abandoned him when he was down. Mark’s mom paused, then looking at my expression, understood. “So there was such a story. I wondered why you delayed your trip to Ning City…” Julian coughed lightly. “Godmother.” “Okay okay, not saying it. So Julian, are you planning to chase Miss Jensen back?” Mark’s mom asked without avoiding me. Too awkward. Julian looked at me and said, “Not happening.” The atmosphere cooled instantly. Mark laughed dryly to smooth things over. “Didn’t Sarah say she had things to do? Julian, give her a ride.” I refused instinctively. “No need to trouble…” Julian grabbed his jacket with his left hand, and my wrist with his right. “Not trouble, I have time.” Heat traveled from where he held me straight to my cheeks. I looked down at that hand with defined knuckles. Dazed, I forgot to push him away. Until our figures disappeared completely. Chloe suddenly reacted. Kicked Mark in the shin. “Hiding it even from me! I’ll kill you, you bastard!” “Hey, hey, wifey don’t hit! I meant well right? You saw it yesterday, Sarah still likes him. If they work out, it’s a good deed!” “Did you not hear what Julian just said? He said ‘Not happening’!” “Psh! You didn’t see him half-dead back then. For Sarah, he hasn’t let go! He’s just being stubborn. Think about it, dumped by someone, and admitting he wants her back in front of everyone? Doesn’t he need to save face?” “But did you forget why they broke up? His family wouldn’t allow it. If it happens again, what about Sarah?” “Not gonna happen! Why do you think he stayed in Lanshi and didn’t return to New York? Just to avoid the path his mom laid out. With his current rank, his mom can’t control him anymore! Hard!” “…You better hope they work out. Otherwise if Sarah drifts away from me because of this, prepare to kneel on a washboard!”

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There was a little wild spider in my apartment. After a brief stare-down, it dropped a coin and ran away. That night, a black, fuzzy little spider visited me in my dreams, acting incredibly cowardly. “…Hi there. The money is for you. Could you please, please not destroy the web I weave?” It added in a trembling voice: “Also… also, please don’t poke my butt anymore. I’m scared!” “I know living in a human’s house means paying rent. I will work hard to earn money and pay my share.” The little spider peeked out with just a sliver of its eyes. I looked down, staring at it. After a long while, I squeezed out a sentence. “Wait a minute… you look kind of familiar.” 1 It happened a second time. Another coin appeared on my vanity. And my vanity, which was a bit messy last night, had been tidied up. Everything was neatly organized. But this time. I caught the culprit red-handed. “A… spider?” The little spider, who was dragging the heavy coin with its back to me, froze. It slowly turned its head. Those oOOo eyes were filled with disbelief at seeing me awake. We stared at each other. The little spider got so scared its eight legs puffed out. It looked like a frightened kitten with its fur standing on end. It dropped the coin and ran. It scurried half a meter in a flash and vanished in the blink of an eye. I stood in silence, walked out of the room without a word. Then walked back in. “Maybe I organized the desk myself before bed last night and just forgot.” I comforted myself with a blank expression. I pretended not to see the extra coin. Then I grabbed my bag and scrambled out the door to go to work. Not because I was scared, but because if I didn’t leave now, I’d lose my perfect attendance bonus! That evening. I came home exhausted from work, not wanting to think about the bizarre event from the morning. But I still took a shower using sage and rosemary soap, just in case. I stared at the spotless ceiling for a while. Eventually. I confirmed that the cobwebs in the corner had been swept away. So I spoke to the air, “I don’t know if you’re a spider or a ghost controlling a spider, but thanks.” “The ceiling corners are very clean. It’s much nicer to look at.” Silence. I didn’t expect an answer anyway. But then, I heard a voice as faint as a mosquito from the corner: “…You’re welcome.” Me: “…” Ideally polite, for a bug. 2 That night, I dreamed. A fuzzy black spider with a tint of purple stood anxiously before me, keeping a meter’s distance. “I’m sorry to communicate with you this way, but I really have no other choice.” The little spider covered its face with two front legs, pleading cowardly. “…Hi there. The money is for you. Could you please not destroy the web I weave anymore?” It added, trembling: “Also… also, please don’t poke my butt anymore. I’m scared!” “I know living in a human’s house means paying rent. I will work hard to earn money and pay my share.” Actually, the spider didn’t cover its face completely; it peeked out with a sliver of its eyes. I looked down, staring at it. After a long while. I squeezed out a sentence. “Wait a minute… you look kind of familiar.” My gaze uncontrollably landed on the spider’s fuzzy, oval, solid butt. I’ve seen it somewhere. I suddenly recalled, realizing with a start. “You’re that spider on the balcony corner who weaves webs meticulously but makes them look terrible!” The little spider stiffened. The fear of being molested returned. It ran away crying, “Pervert—” 3 The little spider arrived a week ago. When I found it, it was struggling to pull back the web it had just woven, like a human rushing to take clothes off the line when it rains. I didn’t notice it at the time and almost slapped it into the afterlife. Of course. I’m not a pervert. I was just spacing out after watering the plants on the balcony, and then I saw the fuzzy little spider weaving silently in the corner. Its butt was too distracting; the spinnerets at the back moved so fast. Like I was possessed. I found a disposable glove and poked it. Unlike other ordinary house spiders, this one was deep black with a purple hue, had faint stripes on the edge of its abdomen, and was extra fuzzy. Spiders that appear in homes are generally non-venomous, or if they are, it’s very weak. So I wasn’t afraid of getting bitten. The fuzzy spider butt was indeed plump and solid. I stared at my fingertip, unable to resist rubbing it. “Just as I thought, heavy, a bit soft, feels great.” “…Truly the kitten of the spider world.” The little spider probably experienced this for the first time. It turned around stiffly, looking like it was about to fight me for touching it again. “Uh, sorry?” Just now, did it glare at me? “…” The spider walked away, moving its legs in a clumsy, synchronized panic, swallowing its anger. 4 We lived in peace for a week. Occasionally, I’d get curious and poke a hole in its web, and the little spider wouldn’t get mad. It would just wait for me to leave, then silently wiggle its butt to repair the web. “Ew… so sticky.” The little spider blinked its oOOo dorky eyes and turned around at the sound. Its gaze landed on my fingertip, where there was… a piece of the web it had just woven, now broken. I did it again. I withdrew my hand sheepishly, a bit embarrassed. The spider didn’t run away. Instead, it frantically stuck its butt out at me, waving its little legs. I hesitated. “Do you want me to touch it? Okay.” So I reached out. “!!” The little spider covered its butt in horror and zoomed away. I thought it wanted me to touch it. But looking back, that wasn’t the case. I waved my hands frantically, “I’m not a pervert.” The honest little spider cried and accused me. It hid far away from me, sobbing quietly. “Don’t say that word.” It seemed even less able to handle the word ‘pervert’ than I was, breaking down: “You touched me… and you say you’re not a pervert!” “I clearly warned you.” I was confused, “Did you?” The spider was exasperated by my cluelessness. It tapped out from the corner and repeated its previous action. “Are you blind?” The spider choked back tears, “This is my attack stance. I was warning you.” “When spiders are scared, they stick their butts up to look bigger and scare off enemies.” “But… but you didn’t say a word and just touched me!” “And you destroyed my web. I can’t even get full.” “If this goes on, I might starve to death.” The spider whimpered, totally breaking down. Turns out I misunderstood. I thought the spider was offering its butt for me to poke. “Sorry, I didn’t know.” I apologized honestly to the spider, promising not to break its hard-woven web again, and promised compensation. The spider sniffled, asking in a hoarse voice: “Really?” I hummed a yes. “Next time I’ll use the electric fly swatter to zap some mosquitoes for you, throw them on your web, give you a deluxe feast.” The spider wiped its tears while choking up. Then it said I was a good person. “Turns out prison isn’t that hard to endure. You’re not at all as scary as the Warden said.” Me: “?”

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My annual income is $1.5 million. My salary account, my secondary credit card, every investment portfolio—it all sat with my mother. She insisted she was handling my finances. I believed her. Until my wife’s water broke. When I called my mother for the cash, she told me, “The account is empty.” I hung up, and that same night, I called the bank’s customer service line. “Hello, I need to place a hold on every bank card in my name.” By early morning, my mother had called me thirty-seven times, a frenzy of pure panic. 01 The cell phone in my pocket vibrated like a grenade about to detonate. I was staring at a dense wall of code on my monitor, my fingers a blur on the keyboard. Then the name “Harper” popped up on the screen, and my heart seized up. I swiped to answer. Harper’s voice came through, tight, laced with suppressed pain. “Gavin, I think… my water just broke.” Voom. The tightrope I’d been walking in my mind snapped. “Don’t panic. I’m coming home now!” I grabbed my jacket from the back of my chair and burst out of the conference room, ignoring the project manager’s astonished shouts behind me. I drove like a maniac, speeding all the way home. I collected Harper, who already had the hospital bag ready, along with her parents, the Petersons, and raced to St. Jude’s Women’s Center. The hospital hallway was saturated with the cold, acrid smell of antiseptic. Harper was on a rolling gurney. Her face was pale, glistening with a fine sheen of sweat. She gripped my hand so tightly her knuckles were white. “I’m here. Just breathe.” I leaned down and kissed her forehead, my own voice trembling despite my effort to keep it steady. The doctor calmly outlined the procedure. A nurse hurried over with a clipboard. “Family, please take care of the admission process. We need a hundred thousand dollar deposit.” “Understood. Right away.” I gave Harper’s hand a reassuring squeeze and walked toward the payment counter. I pulled out my phone and dialed the number I knew by heart. It rang for an agonizingly long time before it was picked up. “Hello? What do you want?” My mother, Joyce Stone, sounded sharply annoyed, her voice muffled by the sound of a loud, trashy reality TV show playing in the background. “Mom, Harper’s in labor. We’re at the hospital. Can you transfer a hundred thousand to my card? I need to pay the deposit.” I tried to keep the heat out of my voice. “In labor? Already?” She paused, the TV noise momentarily dipping, then she spoke with a dismissive wave of her hand. “Oh, I’m busy right now, honey. I can’t leave.” “You don’t have to come. Just transfer the money.” “The money?” Her voice went up an octave. “What money? The accounts are dry.” I thought I’d misheard her. “What do you mean, dry? What about the salary I wire every month? What about the investment accounts?” “Oh, those.” She said it as if discussing the weather. “Well, your brother, Trevor, saw a new BMW X5 he liked a while ago, so I got it for him. Then he said he was getting into a partnership for some new venture, so I gave him the rest to invest. A man has to have his own business, you know.” Her tone was utterly, sickeningly rational. Through the receiver, I could clearly hear Trevor’s loud, spoiled laugh. “Mom, stop talking to him. Focus! My turn!” That laugh felt like a poisoned needle plunging into my eardrum. 1.5 million a year. Five years of non-stop work. That was 7.5 million. Now, my wife was on a gurney waiting for the cash we needed for her delivery, and my own mother was telling me she’d given the entire fortune to my useless younger brother for a luxury SUV and some vague, bogus investments. Blood rushed to my head, then immediately drained away, freezing my entire system. I said nothing. I couldn’t form a single word. I just disconnected the call. The world went silent. I turned back and saw the Petersons standing anxiously near the door. The worry and genuine care in their eyes felt like a stinging slap across my face. I, the son-in-law who earned a staggering salary, couldn’t even cover my own wife’s hospital admission fee. A monstrous mix of shame and white-hot fury clenched my heart. I took a deep breath, the antiseptic scent sharper than ever. I walked to the end of the hall where a window was open. The night air rushed in, chilling me to the bone. Without a second thought, I started dialing the customer service numbers for every single bank account in my name. “Hello, I need to report all my cards as stolen.” “Yes. Every checking, savings, and credit card, including the secondary cards.” “That’s right. All of them.” “Please mail the replacement cards to my office address, and hold them for pickup only.” My voice was unnaturally calm, a cold, robotic tone I barely recognized. I hung up the last call and walked back to the payment desk. Mr. Peterson was already there, handing his own bank card to the cashier. “Gavin, don’t worry about the money,” he said, patting my shoulder, his voice steady. “We have some retirement funds. We’ll cover it. Harper and the baby are what matters.” I looked at the silver in his hair, and my eyes burned. I nodded heavily, pushing the crushing guilt and the towering hatred back down into the deepest part of my gut. Joyce. Trevor. You forced my hand. 02 I sat on the hard bench outside the delivery room all night. Starting at five in the morning, my phone went into crisis mode. The name “Mom” flashed on the screen, over and over—one time, ten times, thirty times… I didn’t answer. I hit the silent button and let it vibrate, a desperate, muted struggle in my palm, like a creature whose neck had been snapped. The entire world was quiet. All I could hear was the frantic drumming of my own heart and the distant, occasional cry of an infant. Harper had been inside for four hours. Every minute felt like an hour in a fryer. Finally, the calls stopped. In their place came a string of red exclamation points in our family chat, a cascade of furious texts. “Gavin Stone, you ungrateful snake! You think you’re too big for me now? You dare ignore my calls?” “What did you do to the cards? Why can’t I take money out?” “Your brother had an important dinner today and the credit card was declined! He was mortified! What are you trying to pull?” “I’m warning you, if you don’t come explain yourself, you and I are done!” The voice messages were shrill, curses that seemed to scratch the screen. Then came the inevitable message from my dear brother, Trevor. “Dude, what the hell? My secondary card is frozen? Did you move the money? I was hosting clients! You made me look like an absolute idiot!” His texts were full of self-righteous entitlement, as if freezing his account was a criminal offense on my part. I looked at the messages and a cold, tight smirk pulled at my lips. Mortified? When my wife was in the delivery room, fighting for her life, and I couldn’t pay the bill, who saved me from being mortified? I could almost see it: Joyce realizing all the cards were dead, throwing a fit in the bank lobby, and eventually being dragged out by security like a sack of trash. It would have been… magnificent. My phone buzzed again—Joyce’s final ultimatum. “Gavin, I don’t care where you are or what you’re doing. Get your butt home and explain this! Or you can forget you ever had a mother!” The irony was overwhelming. This mother? I was already forgetting. I dimmed the screen and slipped the phone back into my pocket. Just then, a loud, clear “WAAAH!” erupted from the delivery room. The door opened. A nurse emerged, smiling, holding a tightly swaddled baby. “Congratulations! It’s a healthy baby boy. Mother and son are doing well!” In that moment, the entire night’s anxiety, rage, and coldness melted away. I rushed over, looked at that wrinkled little face, and my heart filled with an unbearable, soft warmth. The knot in my chest finally unraveled. My son. My wife. From this day forward, this was my only family. 03 Harper was moved to a VIP suite. The Petersons bustled around, their faces shining with uncontained joy. I held Harper’s hand, watching her weak but satisfied smile, and looked at our son sleeping peacefully in the bassinet beside her. The world felt quiet and perfectly complete. The tranquility lasted exactly two hours. The door to the suite was violently shoved open with a jarring BANG. Joyce and Trevor stormed in, their faces contorted with rage. “Gavin!” Joyce’s voice was a shriek that threatened to lift the roof. She crossed the room in three strides, her finger jabbing the air inches from my nose. “You ungrateful bastard! You think you’re so smart now? Who gave you the right to freeze the bank cards?” Her eyes were bloodshot, her hair a mess. She looked like a woman who hadn’t slept, a complete madwoman. I frowned, stood up, and placed myself between her and Harper’s bed. “Mom, this is a hospital. Harper just gave birth and needs rest. Please leave.” My voice was flat and icy. “I leave? Why should I leave? I raised you with my own two hands, and now you marry a wife and forget your mother! I’m not done with you, and you’re already trying to kick me out?” She put her hands on her hips, ready for a brawl. Trevor immediately chimed in. “Seriously, bro, this is low! Mom has been frantic looking for you! And you’re hiding out here with… with them!” “Them?” I slowly repeated the word, my gaze sharp as a razor. The Petersons stepped forward. Mrs. Peterson stood beside Harper’s bed and addressed Joyce. “Joyce, please, calm down. Harper just had surgery; she’s fragile. She shouldn’t be upset.” “You stay out of this!” Joyce completely dismissed her. “This has nothing to do with you! This is our family business! It’s your daughter, that… that gold-digger, who’s corrupted my son!” She moved to shove Mrs. Peterson aside. I grabbed her wrist, my grip firm. “Enough.” My voice wasn’t loud, but the entire room fell instantly silent. Joyce flinched, shocked by the sudden hardness in my eyes, but quickly recovered, launching into her classic dramatic routine. She collapsed onto the floor, began to wail, and pounded her thigh. “Oh, what sin did I commit! To raise a son who just turns into a tool for someone else’s family! I fed him, I clothed him, I put him through college! Now he’s successful, makes millions, and he won’t recognize his own mother! My life is so hard…” Her hysterics drew curious onlookers into the doorway. I watched her performance in silence, my face blank. When her sobs began to quiet, I finally spoke, every word slow and distinct, carrying clearly to every person present. “I make a million and a half dollars a year. Since I was promoted to Technical Director five years ago, my paycheck has been deposited into your accounts, untouched.” “Five years. No more, no less. Seven and a half million dollars.” “Where is it?” I posed the question with the same casual tone one might use to ask about the time. Joyce’s wailing choked off immediately. She lifted her head, and for the first time, her eyes held genuine panic and evasion. The hospital suite was utterly silent. She opened her mouth, but not a single sound came out. $7.5 million. The number was a mountain, crushing the air out of her lungs and clogging her throat. Her theatrics, her curses, her feigned distress—they all collapsed into a ridiculous, pathetic farce in the face of that cold, indisputable figure. 04 “The money… the money?” Joyce repeated my words, stammering, her eyes darting around like a broken record player. Her mind was racing, trying to conjure a plausible lie. But before she could speak, Trevor sprang up like a cornered animal. “It’s spent, obviously!” He jutted out his chin, adopting a self-assured sneer. “Wasn’t I supposed to have startup capital for my business? Is buying a BMW X5 for transport and networking too much to ask? Besides, family expenses, holiday gifts, all the favors—that takes money, right?” He spoke with an arrogant air, proudly flashing the brand-new gold watch on his wrist—a watch he’d charged to my secondary card just last month. “Oh, and by the way, I bought my girlfriend a Hermès bag for her birthday. That’s for networking, too!” Every word he spoke was like a dull blade, scraping at my very core. From the bed, Harper, who had been silently watching, finally spoke, her voice clear and chilling.

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1 On the night the real heiress came back to the Gould family, my own brother drove me to an orphanage and abandoned me. My once comfortable life was torn apart in a day. At the orphanage, bullies made me their target — sometimes nearly drowning me in a drain, other times whipping my back until I couldn’t get up. I begged the warden for help, but he just sneered, “If you weren’t so vicious, your family wouldn’t have thrown you out. You deserved it.” His silence encouraged them. On Christmas Eve, they stripped me and threw me into the snow. I was found stiff and rushed to the hospital. Through the haze, I heard the warden’s cynical laugh: “The Goulds tossed out their own daughter to protect their adopted one — they’re even paying extra to ‘break her.’” He added, “They treat that new girl, Lila, like a queen. I doubt Mr. Gould will even come to see her.” So it was all a game — orchestrated by my brother, Adrian, for Lila. Clutching my bone cancer diagnosis, I laughed through my tears. Soon, Lila really would be his only sister. … The doctor stood before me, his expression grave, sighing repeatedly. “It’s highly unusual for someone your age to develop this, but it was likely aggravated by the repeated, untreated fractures in your leg…” He sat down, patiently explaining the treatment options. But my hearing had been damaged from the constant beatings, a recurring deafness that muffled his voice into a dull drone. I only caught the last sentence. “If we start treatment immediately, we can extend your life by a few years. You should discuss the options with your family.” Family? After six years as an orphan, the word still felt foreign, jarring. I shook my head, a tearful smile on my lips. “I don’t have a family.” The doctor’s pen froze mid-sentence. His eyes scanned the map of scars and bruises covering my body, his voice softening with concern. “Listen, kid, fights with family are one thing, but running away is another. The world out there is a cruel place. It’ll eat you alive.” He offered a reassuring look. “Your brother will be here soon. Just talk it out with him.” I lowered my head, silent. My home was once my sanctuary, the warmest place in the world. But the moment Adrian cast me aside for Lila, that home vanished. He wasn’t coming to save me. He wouldn’t care. I stared blankly at the ceiling tiles, and as I tried to shift my weight, the door flew open. “Aria? Are you serious right now? Your phone goes unanswered, so you pull a stunt like this just to get my attention?” The familiar sound of Adrian’s voice sent a jolt through me. So all those times I’d been tortured to the brink of death, when I’d desperately called him, begging for a way out… he knew it was me. He just chose not to answer. A hopeless laugh escaped my lips. I looked up, my bloodshot eyes meeting his. My voice was raw as I bit out the words. “So you’ve just been ignoring me? Is that how much you despise me? How much you can’t stand having me as your sister?” Adrian’s pupils contracted. His fists clenched and unclenched at his sides, the rims of his eyes turning red. The unspoken truth hung heavy in the air between us. Finally, his shoulders slumped in defeat. He looked down, his voice low. “I did it to give Lila a happy childhood. You had everything. Her mother died protecting our parents.” His voice grew firmer, defensive. “Taking care of her was a promise I made. You were always so aggressive, always bullying her. I had no other choice.” I nodded, a bitter smile spreading across my face as a million tiny needles of pain pierced my heart. Give her a happy childhood? And what about me? Did I deserve to be abandoned in an orphanage? To be tormented until I wished for death? To get bone cancer? I fought back the tears that threatened to spill over. “And Mom and Dad?” His expression was cool, unreadable. “It was a family decision. We were planning to bring you home, once Lila felt more settled.” I thought I was prepared for it, but hearing the words from his own mouth was like a sledgehammer to the chest. The whole family knew. All of them. They had calmly and deliberately sacrificed me for the sake of their housekeeper’s daughter. The dam broke. Tears streamed down my face. I would rather have been the fake heiress. I would rather have frozen to death in the snow that night. Anything would have been less painful than this. Seeing my tears, a flicker of pity crossed Adrian’s face. He sighed, offering a concession. “If you promise to control your temper, to stop being so aggressive and leave Lila alone, I’ll bring you home tomorrow.” He paused. “Not tonight. Tonight is Christmas Eve, and it’s her birthday. Mom, Dad, and I promised we’d spend it alone with her.” My throat was dry. I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. A self-mocking smirk twisted my lips. “I’m sick,” I said, my voice flat. “Bone cancer. I need to stay here for treatment. Just pay the bills. I won’t go home. I won’t bother your precious Lila.” The words had barely left my mouth when his voice exploded in a furious, restrained roar. “What is wrong with you, Aria? What’s with the attitude?” “You find out you’re the real daughter and suddenly you think you can pull whatever manipulative crap you want? You’d even lie about having cancer just to guilt me into taking you home?” I stared at him in disbelief, pointing a trembling finger at the doctor. “I’m not lying! Ask him!” The doctor stepped forward, ready to explain, but Adrian cut him off, his patience shattered. He kicked the side of my bed with a loud thud. “Enough! You haven’t changed a bit after all these years! Now you’re even getting doctors to lie for you!” He turned to leave, his voice filled with disgust. “I never should have wasted my time coming here.” The door slammed shut, plunging the room into a deafening silence. My heart plummeted, my gaze fixed on the empty doorway. The doctor was stunned. “But… isn’t he Adrian Gould? The man who’s famous for doting on his sister? Is he really your brother?” I nodded, then slowly shook my head. He was famous for doting on his sister. But that sister was no longer me. It was Lila. She was our housekeeper’s daughter, and we grew up together. I shared everything I had with her, treating her like she was my own blood. But as we got older, it was never enough for her. She started telling lies to our parents. She claimed I led a group of bullies to torment her at school, calling her a country bumpkin. She said I stripped her clothes off in front of everyone, shouting that poor people didn’t deserve to wear nice things. My parents, who had always seen me as their perfect daughter, began to look at me with growing disappointment. My brother’s frustration turned to rage, and his hand often found my cheek. My own family started to look at me like I was a monster. Then, our housekeeper died in a car crash while shielding my parents. Shortly after, Adrian found an audio recording. That night, he took nine-year-old me to the orphanage. “There was a switch at birth,” he’d told me, his voice cold. “Lila is their real daughter. My real sister. You stole her life!” My world crumbled in that instant, but I had no choice but to accept it. That’s why, even when I was suffering in the orphanage, I never hated them for sending me away. They had loved me once, treasured me. I thought they were just getting justice for their real daughter. But now, knowing the truth… it was all a pathetic joke. As I recounted the story, tears began to fall again. The doctor’s brow was furrowed with pity, unsure of how to comfort me. I forced a smile. Just as I was about to say, “It’s okay,” the door burst open. A group of security guards stormed in. Two of them grabbed me, binding my arms, and dragged me out of the hospital. “Mr. Gould’s orders!” one of them announced. “You’re wasting resources faking an illness. Any doctor who conspires with you will have their career terminated!” The kind doctor tried to intervene, pleading my case, but Adrian’s influence was absolute. The guards were just doing their job. They threw me onto the cold pavement of the street. The impact sent a searing, grinding pain through every bone in my body. I lay on the ground, convulsing. The doctor, his heart aching for me, took off his own winter coat and draped it over my thin hospital gown. “I have a family to support, kid. I can’t lose my job. I’m sorry I can’t do more, but this might help with the pain.” He shoved a bottle of painkillers into my hand before the guards shooed him away. I fumbled with the bottle, dry-swallowing a handful of pills. After a few minutes, the shaking subsided. I staggered to my feet, looking around at the bustling street. Dusk was falling. People were rushing home for Christmas Eve, their faces glowing with happiness. And then there was me. A ghost wandering the streets with nowhere to go. I sniffled, pulling the coat tighter, but the wind still bit through to my bones. I found a sheltered alcove by a building and huddled down, trying to conserve warmth. As I crouched there, my eyes fell on a high-end restaurant across the street. And in the window, a familiar family of four. A three-tiered cake sat on their table. Lila, wearing a birthday crown, sat in the middle, her eyes closed as she made a wish. My father leaned over and fastened a necklace with a large pink gemstone around her neck. My mother was busy snapping photos. And Adrian stood ready with a confetti cannon. The moment she blew out the candles, they all cheered, wishing her a happy birthday. Surrounded by their love, Lila looked like a true princess. For a second, I thought I saw her glance my way, a triumphant, mocking smile on her face. But I dismissed it. My stomach was cramping from two days without food. The hunger was unbearable. I closed my eyes, trying to will myself to sleep. Maybe if I slept, the pain would go away. Just as I was drifting off, a splash of ice-cold water shocked me awake. I gasped, shivering violently. Lila stood over me, a cruel smirk on her face. “It really is you,” she sneered. “I had them make your life a living hell, and you’re still not dead? You’re tougher than a cockroach.” My heart seized. So it was true. She was behind everything at the orphanage. She crossed her arms, rolling her eyes. “It doesn’t matter anyway. I’m the Gould heiress now. And you? You’re nothing but trash on the street.” She was right. What could I do? No one would believe me. No one would take my side. The pain in my bones was a deep, insistent throb. I had no energy left to fight. It didn’t matter anymore. I could be dead at any moment. If I just stayed quiet, maybe she would leave me alone to get through the night. But seeing me so passive, so unlike the fighter I used to be, seemed to bother her. She knelt in front of me, her brow furrowed. “What’s this? Trying to look pathetic? Hoping Mom and Dad will see you and feel sorry enough to take you home?” A cold laugh escaped her lips, the dimples in her cheeks deepening as her voice turned venomous. “Let’s just see who they feel sorry for.” Before I could react, her hand shot out. There was a glint of metal. She plunged the knife deep into my thigh. A scream tore from my throat as a blinding, all-consuming pain nearly made me pass out. My body’s instinct was to push her away, but before my hands even reached her, she threw herself backward, tumbling down the short flight of steps behind her. “Ahh! Dad! Mom! Adrian, it hurts!” she shrieked, her delicate cries easily overpowering my pained gasps. Through a blur of agony, I saw the three of them in the restaurant window turn their heads in an instant. They scrambled from their table and ran across the street. Adrian reached her first, scooping her into his arms, his face a mask of panic as he asked what happened. My parents were right behind, fussing over her, checking for injuries while dialing for an ambulance. Cradled in Adrian’s arms, Lila’s face was streaked with tears. She pointed a trembling finger at me. “I… I thought I saw someone who looked like Aria, so I came out… I wanted her to celebrate with me, but then…” Following her gaze, the three of them finally looked up and saw me, a crumpled heap in the darkness. My parents froze, their eyes filled with a storm of unreadable emotions. Adrian’s gaze, which had been full of adoration for Lila, turned on me, sharp and filled with visceral hatred. I stared back at the three people who once cherished me more than anything, who now looked at me as if I were their mortal enemy. The physical agony ignited years of buried grief. I held up a hand, trying to explain, a desperate sliver of hope still flickering within me. “I didn’t do anything to her. She’s the one who hurt me! Please… just believe me this once…” My words were cut short by the sharp crack of Adrian’s hand across my face. “Aria! You followed us here, lured Lila out, and attacked her on her birthday, and now you have the gall to blame her for it?” My father’s face was dark with rage, his eyes holding nothing but profound disappointment. “Will you not stop until Lila is dead? After all these years, lying is still the only thing you’ve learned!” My hand trembled as I touched my stinging cheek. The pain was excruciating. But all I could do was laugh, a wild, broken sound. It was always like this. My own parents. My own brother. They couldn’t see my emaciated frame. They couldn’t see the blood soaking through my pants. All they saw was Lila, their perfect, blameless angel. I should have known better than to hope. I dropped my head, my voice numb as I spoke to Adrian. “If I don’t make it through the night, will you come get my body?” He let out a short, contemptuous laugh, his eyes filled with scorn. “That would be for the best. Then we’d never have to worry about you hurting Lila again.” His absolute indifference hollowed out the last part of my soul. Suddenly, death didn’t seem so terrifying. “Promise me you will,” I whispered. So I don’t scare anyone else. He didn’t spare me another glance. The ambulance had arrived, and he was busy helping place a weeping Lila onto the stretcher. As she was being loaded in, my mother cast a worried look in my direction. “Adrian, something’s wrong with Aria. Don’t you think… don’t you think we’ve been too hard on her?” My brother snorted. “It’s all an act. How could we be too hard on her? A lesson like this is too light for what she deserves.” The ambulance pulled away, leaving me alone on the street like a piece of garbage. My head grew heavy. As fireworks celebrating the new year painted the sky, the world went dark… The news broke early the next morning. [At dawn on New Year’s Day, sanitation workers on Prosperity Avenue discovered the frozen body of a young woman. The deceased has been identified as a resident from the local orphanage, Aria Gould!]

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Two months after breaking up with Carter, he brought his new girlfriend to the convenience store where I worked to buy ultra-thin condoms. While browsing, he deliberately asked the girl clinging to his arm: “So many options. Which one do you think feels the best? Give me a recommendation.” The girl blushed, looking at the shelf for a long time, unable to speak. He laughed. “My bad, I almost forgot. When I was with you, I never used them, so you wouldn’t know.” I lowered my head and wiped the counter, saying nothing. The man chuckled lightly, looking at me with a playful, mocking gaze. “Since you work here, why don’t you recommend one?” Chapter 1 I zoned out for a second. After realizing what he was saying, I grabbed a box from the shelf. “This brand has great lubrication, is very friendly for women, and is thin enough that you barely feel it. You can give it a try.” Carter’s smile faded slightly. “You seem very experienced.” I replied flatly, “It’s part of the job.” He pinched the packaging, his tone suggestive. “Is this the one you use with your boyfriend?” The woman beside him burst out laughing. “Look at her clothes. Fast fashion trash. Her whole outfit probably costs less than twenty bucks.” “That brand of rubbers is the most expensive one here. How could she and her broke boyfriend afford it? They probably use the cheap stuff that breaks easily.” Carter stared at my face, seemingly waiting for me to look embarrassed or ashamed. I didn’t give him the satisfaction. I just kept smiling. “Rest assured, sir. I’ve personally quality-checked every brand here. They are all excellent. You can buy with confidence.” Carter’s hand froze, and his face visibly darkened. He scoffed. “Fine. We’ll use your recommendation. If it’s no good, I’m coming back for you.” He bought a box and walked out with the woman on his arm. After that day? Maybe that brand really was that good. For a solid week, he brought his girlfriend to my counter every single day to buy that specific 0.01 ultra-thin box. Even my manager couldn’t help but gossip. “First time I’ve seen something like this. One box a day, and there are five in a pack? That guy has some serious stamina.” “Rich people really know how to play. Must be nice to have that kind of energy.” “By the way, did you see his car? A Rolls-Royce Phantom. There are only a few in the state. That thing costs half a million just to drive off the lot.” “This neighborhood really is full of hidden dragons and tigers.” “His girlfriend is so lucky. Dressed in designer labels from head to toe. One of her accessories is worth half a lifetime of my wages. She’s not nearly as pretty as you, Hailey, but she sure has better luck.” “Speaking of which… she looks familiar.” “I think I saw her in your graduation photos…” I paused, remaining silent. The manager nudged my arm curiously. “Hailey, don’t tell me she was your college classmate?” “How did they get together? She’s one of us, right? Come on, spill the tea.” I didn’t take the bait. I just looked down and said, “There’s no tea to spill.” “Manager, can I take some time off in the next two days for a checkup?” The manager blinked. “Sure, go ahead. Is the baby’s father going with you this time?” I shook my head. “No, I’ll go alone.” The manager sighed. “You go alone every time. Who is this guy anyway? So irresponsible.” I pursed my lips and said nothing. Chapter 2 Actually, the story is pretty cliché. The girl beside Carter was my college roommate, Bianca. Senior year, without my knowledge, she used my photos to catfish Carter online. Everyone knew she had snagged a super-rich boyfriend online. After all, she bragged about it in the dorm every day. She would complain to me, “My boyfriend Venmo’d me money again. It’s so annoying, I haven’t even finished spending the last transfer.” “He’s always like this. People might think I’m a gold digger.” When I ignored her, she’d cover her mouth in mock surprise and lean in. “Oh, I forgot you’re still on financial aid. My boyfriend is rich and spoils me. You’re not jealous, are you?” After starting the online relationship, she replaced everything she owned with designer brands. Any random meal she ate cost nearly a grand. Her online boyfriend seemed to have severe insomnia and was incredibly clingy. Every night, Bianca would put on a fake, baby-doll voice and talk to him until late. I was a light sleeper. I relied on melatonin to get any rest, only to be jolted awake by her sudden laughter. I wanted to tell her to shut up so many times. But I didn’t have living expenses. I had early shifts at my part-time job, and I was exhausted. I didn’t have the energy to argue. My parents were divorced. Both had new families. They stopped caring about me years ago. I paid my own tuition. At night, I was sleep-deprived. In the morning, I had to work. Plus the heavy course load. Sometimes, I was so tired I felt like ending it all. Even though I tried to be quiet in the mornings, Bianca would rip off her covers and scream at me while the other roommates slept. “Getting up before dawn to work? Trying to show off how hardworking you are? Seriously, can you not afford to live?” “If you’re that poor, just drop out. Find an old sugar daddy to take care of you. Is this really necessary?” I was in a rush to get to work and didn’t have time to fight her. I worked at a high-end coffee shop. One day, a handsome guy ordered the most expensive drink on the menu, propped his chin on his hand, and stared at me unblinkingly. He wore a pure black trench coat, his eyes slightly upturned, pupils a beautiful amber color. He looked relaxed and indifferent. He was too striking. He looked better than most celebrities. The moment he walked in, he became the focal point of the cafe. People were secretly taking photos of him. I couldn’t help but steal a few glances too. When I brought him his coffee, he handed me a massive tip, smiled, and said in a lazy voice: “Babe, you’re working so hard.” “Why are you working so early? I transfer you so much money every day, is it not enough? Do you need more?” I froze. “When did you give me money?” He paused too, pulled out his phone, and opened his gallery to show me. It was full of my selfies. “Babe, you have a mole on your earlobe. This is you in the photos, right?” “Why act like strangers after flirting with me all night? You call me ‘Daddy’ every night on the phone.” His smile deepened. “Is this because it’s our first time meeting in person? Are you shy?” I was dumbfounded. “Those are definitely my photos, but… I don’t know who you are.” He was confused too. We put two and two together. We realized Bianca had been using my photos to scam him. When he realized he’d been duped, he was annoyed. But then he extended his hand to me. “Hi, I’m Carter. Would you be willing to try dating me for real?” I hesitated. He smiled charmingly. “Be with me. I can make your life a lot easier.” In that moment, I admit, I was tempted. I was just too tired. Chapter 3 After we got together, Carter was a perfect boyfriend. He recovered all the money Bianca had scammed from him and deposited it into my account. Before graduation, he showered me with gifts and surprises. After graduation, he broke protocol to get me into his company, mentoring me personally on projects. He gave me a resume that most people my age could only dream of. By day, we were boss and subordinate. By night, we were lovers—living together, holding each other. He had incredible stamina, leaving me dazed every time. In those moments, he loved to bite the mole on my earlobe, kiss my eyes, and bury his face in my neck, panting when it was over. Because I had a condition making it hard to conceive, and Carter liked the sensation, he never used protection. In the heat of the moment, he would whisper: “Babe, give me a child, okay? I only want one with you.” “Your kid would definitely be as obedient as you.” I held him, believing it was true. I thought we would be like this forever. Until that day. I found out he had a fiancée. I went to the hospital for a checkup and unexpectedly found out I was pregnant. Panicked but happy, I rushed to Carter’s office with the report. My hand just touched the doorknob. I heard voices inside. “So, you haven’t told Hailey about your fiancée?” I froze. I pressed my ear gently against the door. I heard Carter speak calmly: “I don’t like my fiancée anyway. Besides, it’s just a business marriage arranged by the elders.” His friend asked, “Haven’t you thought about fighting it?” Carter laughed, his tone careless. “Is it necessary?” “Marrying within your social class is the natural order of things. You don’t actually think I’d end up with a charity case like Hailey, do you? It’s just for fun.” “Besides, I don’t want to settle down yet.” “I have an agreement with my fiancée. Before the wedding, we play our own games. As long as no kids are involved, anything goes.” “Hailey is obedient. She’s sensible, and she makes me feel bad for her. I don’t mind keeping the act going.” His friend joked, “You used to change girlfriends every week. This is the first time I’ve seen you take a relationship so seriously. I thought you’d changed.” “But I get it. Hailey has that innocent look. If it were me, I’d want to keep her around and pamper her too.” “But with how wild you guys are, aren’t you afraid of getting her pregnant?” Carter laughed. “What’s there to be afraid of? If she gets pregnant, I’ll just pay for the abortion and give her some cash to break up.” “Poor people like that are easy to deal with. They’re shortsighted. Throw some money at them and they won’t cause trouble.” In that moment, a buzzing noise filled my head. I almost fell over. I looked down at the pregnancy report in my hand. It felt like someone had slapped me across the face. My cheeks burned. My hand on the doorknob slowly dropped. That night, I didn’t go home. I hid in a hotel and cried alone for a long time. I realized I must have hopelessly fallen in love with him. Otherwise, why would it hurt this much? I loved him, but I hated him too. I thought, why? Why does he hold all the power in this relationship? Why can he pick me up and put me down so easily? Why can he do this, but I can’t? Instead of waiting for Carter to dump me, I decided to dump him. I would end this. So, I staged a cheating scene. When Carter found me at the hotel, I was in a bathrobe, kissing another man. The man was an actor I hired. Lingerie was scattered on the floor, along with torn stockings. The bedsheets were messy, deliberately staged to look explicit. Carter stood at the door, the air around him terrifyingly cold. He gave a smile that looked extremely dangerous. “Explain?” The man I was kissing spoke up first. “Mr. Sterling, we are true love. Just let her go.” “I swear I’ll treat her well.” Carter didn’t even look at him. His peripheral vision swept over the man with undisguised contempt and disgust. “Get out. A piece of trash like you doesn’t get to speak here.” The man’s face turned red. He opened his mouth but didn’t dare argue. I was silent for a moment, then spoke slowly: “It’s what you see. I don’t like you anymore.” “I’ve already submitted my resignation to the company. The money you gave me is all in the account. I haven’t touched a cent.” “Carter, let’s break up.” That night, Carter stood on the balcony and smoked a whole pack of cigarettes. When he left, he said coldly, “As you wish.” After that, I blocked and deleted Carter on everything. After the breakup, I originally wanted to terminate the pregnancy. But the doctor told me my constitution made it hard to conceive. If I terminated it, I might never get pregnant again. She advised me repeatedly to think it over and not be impulsive. I was conflicted. I couldn’t decide. By sheer accident of indecision, the child stayed. Chapter 4 A week later. Carter came to the convenience store alone. I thought he was buying condoms again, so I habitually reached for his usual brand. He didn’t take it. He just looked at me. “Hailey, can we talk?” We went to a nearby five-star restaurant. Carter ordered spicy wings, which I used to love. I said, “I don’t eat spicy food anymore.” Carter smiled. “You used to be addicted to spice. Why the change?” “Accommodating your new boyfriend?” I lowered my eyes and said flatly, “My stomach hasn’t been feeling well lately.” He didn’t comment, just ordered lighter dishes. After the food arrived, Carter asked me: “Do you regret breaking up with me?” “You never lived this kind of hard life when you were with me.” “Is he treating you badly?” I didn’t speak. He smiled. “OK, I get it.” “I was your first love. You were practically a kid when you got with me. No experience, naive. It’s normal not to know when you have it good.” “So some guy whispers sweet nothings and you get tricked away.” “But life isn’t a fairy tale.” “You see it now. Look at how you’re living without me.” “Up at six, home at ten. Two hours of commuting. Crowded subways. Standing all day. Menial work.” “Your roommate is my mistress now, and she’s living great. Fifty thousand a month in allowance. I gave you even more than that.” “That life should belong to you.” “This is the last chance, Hailey. Do you want to get back together?” I was silent. After a long time, I looked up. “Carter, I’m not like you. I take feelings seriously.” Carter sneered. “Oh really? Can’t tell. You like that guy that much?” Just then, I accidentally bit into a piece of fatty meat. The greasy taste hit my throat, making me want to vomit. I covered my mouth, nausea rising. Seeing this, Carter poured me water slowly, half-joking. “Why such a big reaction? Is it morning sickness?” My fingers tightened around the glass. He leaned in. “Looking closely, your belly seems a bit bigger than before.” “Hailey, I never used protection. You didn’t get pregnant behind my back, did you?” In that instant, my body froze. My temples throbbed. But I calmed down quickly. I drank the water slowly. “No.” He stared at me, his eyes unreadable. “Really?” I took a deep breath. “Carter, you’re too full of yourself.” “Besides, even if I were, there is no way I would keep your child.” Carter froze. His face turned ugly instantly. He gritted his teeth. “Fine. You’ve got guts.” “Then let me tell you. Your face is indeed my type. I did fall in love with your photos at first sight.” “But the person who chatted with me was Bianca. The one who kept me company through countless sleepless nights was Bianca.” “The one I really like, truthfully, is her.” With that, he walked away cold-faced. That day, he didn’t buy condoms at the store. I sighed in relief. But around 10 PM, just as I was about to get off work. The manager called me. She said Carter ordered delivery service and requested I personally bring his usual ultra-thins to his door. I hesitated for a long time. “Do I have to go?” The manager was put in a tough spot. “There’s no one else available right now.” I closed my eyes and agreed. I found Carter’s house. When the door opened, I saw Bianca in skimpy lingerie. She wasn’t wearing slippers, barefoot. Seeing the bag in my hand, she laughed. “Carter, if you forgot to buy them, you forgot. Why make her deliver them? You probably knew she had the day off tomorrow. You’re so bad.” Carter leaned against the living room door, smiling wickedly at me, but speaking to her: “How many times have I told you? Don’t run around barefoot.” Bianca whined, “Then put them on for me.” Carter laughed. He carried her to the sofa, knelt down, held her white foot in his large palm, and put socks on for her. I caught a glimpse. Under Bianca’s skirt… she wasn’t wearing anything. I looked away. After putting on the socks, Carter said to her: “Go shower. Clean up and wait for me.” Bianca stuck out her tongue playfully. “Fine, okay.” She turned to go shower. I handed the bag to Carter and turned to leave. Carter grabbed my hand first. “Unblock my number.” I couldn’t hold it back anymore. “Are you sick?” “Carter, we broke up.” He smiled, but his eyes were cold. “Hailey, this isn’t a negotiation.” “You know me. If you don’t listen, I have plenty of ways to ruin you.” I pursed my lips. I knew. He had the power. Eventually, I compromised. I took out my phone and was forced to add him back. He saved my number with satisfaction. “If you have any trouble in the future, call me anytime.” I looked at the joy he couldn’t hide between his brows. I didn’t understand. What is this? A slap in the face followed by a piece of candy? When I went home, it was late. This was a villa district, quiet amidst the city noise. There were no pedestrians on the street, only dim streetlights stretching my shadow long and thin. I walked fast, but my heart pounded. I felt a sticky gaze glued to my back. Was I being followed? Was it an illusion? At the intersection, I stopped and looked back abruptly. In the shadows of the alley stood a middle-aged man with a sleazy face. He was a customer who came to the store often recently, staring at my chest every time he paid. He grinned at me, his eyes scanning my legs. “Little sister, walking alone so late? Are you lonely? Come to my place?” My heart contracted. I ran. I lost a high heel. My ankle hit the stone curb, hurting excruciatingly, but I didn’t dare stop. In desperation, I fumbled for my phone and helplessly dialed Carter’s private number over and over. But it wouldn’t connect. On the fifth try, he finally picked up. I was almost crying. “Carter, someone is following…” Laughter came from the other end. “Hailey, you’re doing this on purpose, right? Calling right when I’m taking care of business.” “Trying to add some spice to my night?” “Sorry, I’m busy right now.” Before I could finish, he hung up. In that moment, my blood ran cold. And in that moment, I made up my mind. I was getting an abortion.

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I was on the fast track to becoming the prime-time news anchor. Then, the station airdropped a Stanford journalism grad—a beauty named Chloe Shi. Management issued a challenge: whoever lands the exclusive interview with the elusive billionaire CEO of the Ji Group, Ethan Ji, gets the anchor chair. I thought I had it in the bag. After all, Ethan is my secret husband. But Ethan granted the interview to Chloe and rejected me. When I found out Chloe was his first love, I knew we were done. I voluntarily applied for a transfer to the Donbas region as a war correspondent. In career and love, I had to grasp at least one, right? Ethan, this time, I’m the one walking away. Chapter 1 A gasp rippled through the office. Everyone was gathered around Chloe. The director looked at her with undisguised admiration. “As expected of a high-achiever from Stanford. Congratulations, Chloe. The task was assigned yesterday, and today you’ve secured the exclusive with the CEO of Ji Group.” Ethan Ji never accepted interviews. Everyone in the industry knew this. The Ji Group didn’t need publicity through media interviews; Ethan Ji himself was the best billboard. Chloe smiled, the corners of her mouth lifting. “It’s just part of the job. It’s what I should do.” Colleagues were surprised and delighted that Chloe secured the interview. Since taking over the Ji Group, Ethan had never accepted an interview from any media outlet. My smile was a bit forced. I had been at the City TV station for five years. I was one step away from being promoted to the prime-time news anchor. But yesterday, I was suddenly notified of a new female host joining us. Beautiful, professional, and strong. A master’s degree in journalism from abroad. Her introduction was generous and confident. “Hi everyone, I’m Chloe Shi.” “Although I graduated from Stanford Journalism, I’ve never worked in this industry and lack experience.” “I’ll need everyone’s guidance in the future.” She was polite and unpretentious, winning the favor of many colleagues. But when her eyes met mine… The corners of her mouth lifted slightly, carrying a hint of smugness. The director called both of us into the office and assigned the task. “Sarah,” he said to me. “We hope to get an exclusive interview with Ethan Ji of the Ji Group. So the station is giving you two a test.” “Whoever can secure the exclusive with Ethan Ji will become the prime-time news anchor.” I secretly rejoiced. This shouldn’t be a problem. Because Ethan Ji is my secret husband. Walking out of the office, Chloe extended her hand. “Hi, Sarah.” “You can call me Chloe.” I raised an eyebrow slightly. She actually knew my name. Her arrival was too sudden, as if she came specifically for me. I pressed my lips into a smile. “Hello, I’m Sarah Xu. Just Sarah is fine.” We exchanged contact info. Walking out of the office building side by side, she suddenly spoke. “Sarah.” “Let’s compete fairly.” It was just a hosting slot, yet her eyes were full of ambition. It felt like we were competing for more than just a position. Chapter 2 Last night, Ethan came home from a business dinner. He smelled faintly of alcohol, his face slightly flushed. His tailored shirt outlined his perfect physique, his suit jacket draped over his arm. The light hit his face, highlighting his smooth jawline and high nose bridge under thick brows. He lifted his eyelids to look at me. “Something up?” I blurted out directly, “Will you accept my interview?” He paused slightly, brows furrowing a bit. After a moment of contemplation, he said, “Sarah.” “I don’t accept any interviews, and there are no exceptions.” When the leadership assigned the task, I thought it was a sure thing. Because Ethan is my husband. So when I was rejected by Ethan, I felt a bit embarrassed. I gathered my courage and asked him, “Even if I am your wife, can’t I have a special exception?” Ethan nodded. “Yes. Even if you are my wife.” I said, “Okay, I understand.” Actually, I thought if I couldn’t get it, then Chloe couldn’t get it either. The next day, when the director announced that Chloe had secured the interview with Ethan… I was dazed for a long time, just zoning out. I don’t know how to describe my feelings at that moment. It felt like I lost the whole world in an instant. Until my partner, Mia, comforted me: “Sarah, don’t be sad.” “Just one look and you can tell she has connections. She was airdropped in, it’s not your fault.” My distress was obvious. But I wasn’t just sad because of the failed promotion, but because Ethan didn’t favor me. Knowing that Chloe was Ethan’s first love, I understood. What Chloe wanted to compete with me for wasn’t just the anchor position. It was also Ethan. After she secured the exclusive, she remained modest. After the director left, she suggested, “How about I treat everyone to coffee?” Colleagues were excited. Just securing the interview with Ethan meant the KPIs for various departments were met half a year ahead of schedule. Barring accidents, the year-end bonus would double. So even though I didn’t get the interview, I would still enjoy this bonus. Everyone looked at Chloe like she was a savior. A colleague said, “Chloe, you are amazing.” “Even the Crown Prince of the business world succumbed to you.” Chloe smiled sweetly. “We know each other.” After saying that, she looked at me. Chloe raised an eyebrow slightly, then withdrew her gaze. A seemingly light sentence, but with many hidden implications behind it. It caused a small sensation. “Chloe, you’re so beautiful.” “Could it be you’re the Crown Prince’s girlfriend?” Someone interjected, “That’s not right, I heard the Crown Prince is secretly married.” Chloe’s almond eyes flickered. “Whoever watches the coffee well can have mine.” Chloe didn’t put on airs and quickly integrated with the colleagues. A colleague invited Chloe to dinner after work. Chloe declined. “Thanks, but I have plans tonight.” “Just returned to the country, friends are throwing a welcome dinner for me.” The colleague sighed with regret, then looked surprised. “Alright then. It couldn’t be with Mr. Ji, right?” Chloe blinked and didn’t speak. At the same time, Ethan sent me a message: “Business dinner tonight, will be late.” Although Ethan and I were secretly married, he never had any scandals and respected me. He would report his whereabouts and exchange gifts on anniversaries and birthdays. I had a premonition that the person welcoming Chloe tonight was Ethan. Chapter 3 It’s hard not to be curious about your husband’s first love. Chloe was a classic beauty. She looked unapproachable but was actually proactive and enthusiastic. This contrast made people feel she was nice. Her social media showed another side of her, contrary to her looks. She posted a lot. Simple text complaints, selfies, travel photos. Seeing Ethan’s profile picture in the likes list made my heart tremble slightly. A slight sourness overflowed. No comments, just likes. Besides Ethan, a few of his good friends occasionally liked and commented. From the comments of his friends, I could tell they had a good relationship before. After scrolling through the visible posts from the last six months, I prepared to exit. Chloe updated again. In the photo, there was no Ethan. But the arm in the corner, the person wearing the Rolex Submariner watch… I recognized it instantly. It was Ethan. “Hehe, thanks to my friends for the welcome dinner!” Soon a colleague commented: “Wow, feels like big shots.” Chloe jokingly replied: “Then you are a friend of big shots.” It was strange. In just three days… Chloe’s social circle overlapped halfway with mine. Seeping into every corner of my life. Usually, I would leave a light on when Ethan came home late. Tonight, I stood under the light. Hesitated for a while. Turned the light off. Just as I was falling asleep, I heard the sound of running water in the bathroom. Opening my eyes, Ethan stood by the bed. His voice was pleasant, cool: “Why didn’t you leave a light tonight?” I clicked the bedside lamp off. “Forgot.” He climbed into bed. The faint scent of body wash and hormones lingered around me after his shower. The man’s strong and powerful arms imprisoned me tightly from behind. I froze for a moment, then peeled his fingers open one by one, pushing his hand away. “Ethan, I’m sleepy.” His voice was slightly hoarse: “Okay. You sleep, I’ll hold you.” Chapter 4 Chloe had already permeated my life pervasively. Even if I wanted to avoid her, I couldn’t. Because she was a newcomer, the director asked me to help her. Mia was indignant for me: “Why? Just to pave the way for her?” “She’s impressive, clinging to the Crown Prince.” “She should just go home and be a rich wife, why come out and snatch rice bowls from us common folk?” “You’ve worked conscientiously for the station for so many years, brought in so many sponsorships, what does this count for?” I sighed: “Just my bad luck.” It was indeed bad luck. For the prime-time anchor position, I started from the most basic chores. I suffered a lot. Carrying equipment weighing twenty pounds in the heat, running around construction sites and rice fields. To seek justice for the grassroots people, to demand unpaid wages. I was hit by a brick by a coal boss. My head bled, and I didn’t dare let my family or Ethan know. Denouncing developers in unfinished buildings for buyers, exposing black-hearted entrepreneurs, falling from unfinished buildings. Lying in the ambulance, I cried and begged the doctor to save me. Even delirious from anesthesia, I was still muttering about work. In the end, there are more five years. Seeing Mia filled with righteous indignation, angrier than me. I comforted her instead: “Forget it, forget it. It means this position doesn’t belong to me.” At least, I met a good friend who genuinely cared about me.

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After I was the one to break the silence between us, I saw the box of ultra-thins in Alex’s passenger seat. I quietly put them away for him, saying nothing. Alex shot me a complicated look and offered an explanation. “Look again. The whole box is there. We just ran out of the ones at home.” I hummed in acknowledgment, feigning sleep in the uncomfortable seat. He didn’t speak again until he pulled the car over to the side of the road, his voice soft. “Let’s pick up some supplements. We’ll go to your family’s home for New Year’s and visit your mom.” I couldn’t hold back the tears. I turned my back to him. My mother was dead. And he still didn’t know. 1 “Ava? Are you listening to me?” Alex’s voice hardened, a familiar pressure in his tone. My own voice was raspy. “There’s no need.” There’s no need to go back. Not ever again. He misunderstood. He leaned over, trying to see my face. “Are you angry? “Please, just trust me, okay? Here, you can count them if you want.” He opened the box and tipped out all the condoms. His eyes held a look of weary indulgence, as if he were dealing with a petulant child. I wiped my tears and looked over. “I’m really not angry.” Alex leaned in and hugged me, sighing. “You say you’re not angry. “But you’ve been wanting me to go back with you, haven’t you? “It’s New Year’s, and for once, I don’t have any work events. “If we miss this chance, who knows when the next one will be.” His hand gently rubbed my back, just like he always did. But I felt nothing. I numbly pushed him away and nodded. “Okay. Let’s go, then.” The last thing my mother had said was that her son-in-law was too busy with work; she hadn’t even gotten to see him. If Alex had time on New Year’s, it would be good for him to pay his respects. After all, once we were divorced, there would be no reason to ask him to go again. I ordered a lot of things online, mostly offerings for her grave. I was worried about inflation in the afterlife and wanted to make sure she had enough. But on New Year’s Day, Alex didn’t come home. 2 It was as if I’d expected it. I calmly accepted that he might not make the train. I took a taxi to the station by myself. He didn’t call until the train was already pulling away from the platform. “I’m sorry, something came up here. “Can you change your ticket? We could leave tonight instead.” I watched the scenery blur past the window and swallowed my tears. “Don’t worry about it. I’ve already left.” I couldn’t even be bothered to ask why. But he explained anyway. “This time it really isn’t because of Sophie. “A project we already settled had a last-minute issue. I really thought I could make it back in time. “Ava, don’t be like this.” I don’t know what in my calm voice made him think I was being difficult. “I know you’re busy,” I said evenly. “You can come tomorrow.” One more day doesn’t matter. It’s fine. Alex breathed a sigh of relief. “Wait for me, okay? When I get there, I’ll make that lamb stew for your mom. “She always said how much she loved my cooking. It’s been a few years since she’s had it. “This time, I’ll definitely…” “I’m tired. I’m going to get some sleep.” I cut off his happy planning, the tears finally streaming down my face. I wanted to scream. She can’t eat it! Where were you before? But I was just… tired. I didn’t want to fight. We had fought so much that I was exhausted. It made me feel like I had no self-respect, like I was pathetically begging for his attention. It was enough if he just came. If he came and paid his respects, so my mother could see him. That was all I asked. A small return for all the years my mother had practically raised him. A small return for the boy I’d taken in, who had eaten at our table almost every day for over a decade. But I had overestimated him. 3 My uncle’s face fell when he saw I had come home alone again. That evening, my aunt gently prodded. “Are you and Alex fighting? “Your mother sensed something was wrong when she was in the hospital, you know. She just didn’t say anything because she didn’t want to upset you. “You need to rein in that temper of yours. With your parents gone, your husband is all you have to rely on. “The most important thing now is to have a baby.” I listened quietly and told her Alex would be there tomorrow. “His business hasn’t been doing well the last few years, so he has a lot of work events,” I explained. “He wanted to come when Mom was in the hospital, too. Don’t worry, we’re fine.” I didn’t want my family to know I was planning to divorce him. I didn’t have the energy to deal with their attempts to mediate. But I never expected Alex to break his promise again. In the morning, he told me he was on his way to the station. My uncle slaughtered the chicken he’d been raising for a year. My aunt went to the market at dawn. “It’s good he’s coming. He didn’t even show up for your mother’s funeral. The whole village thought he’d abandoned you. “This will shut them up. “You two should come back more often.” My aunt chattered away as she bustled around the kitchen. But after the table was laden with food, Alex didn’t answer any of my calls. “Let’s just eat,” I said, forcing the words out. I looked at my aunt and uncle, my chest tight with guilt. They exchanged a look and nodded. “Yes, yes, let’s eat before it gets cold.” “I’ll go get your cousins to come over. We can’t finish all this food ourselves.” “They can go with you up the mountain later.” My aunt hurried to get more bowls and chopsticks. In the winter air, the food on the table was already lukewarm. I fought back tears, my smile feeling stiff and unnatural. My uncle suddenly sat down beside me and ruffled my hair. “You were always a strong-willed child. You should do what you want to do. “If your father were here, he wouldn’t want to see you this unhappy. “Our home is always your home. You still have family, you know. Don’t listen to your aunt. You should live for yourself.” I managed a watery smile at him and excused myself to the bathroom. I only came out after I had stopped crying. My aunt and uncle were in the kitchen, reheating the dishes. Just then, my phone rang. It was Alex. 4 “She’s in the hospital. In surgery. “It’s life or death, Ava. I can’t just leave her. “Tomorrow. I’ll come tomorrow and pick you all up. “We can bring Mom back to the city with us for a few days.” I listened numbly, a storm of emotion churning inside me. I didn’t want to get angry. My mother always used to say: “Ava, honey, don’t get upset so easily. It’s not worth it. “Just live a quiet, peaceful life. “Turn a blind eye, and the years will pass. “Look at me. I used to have so many complaints about your father, but after he passed, all I can remember are the good things.” But Alex… he was pushing me too far. “You don’t have to come. I have something to discuss with you when I get back.” I hung up before he could reply. He called again. I declined it. Then the texts started. [Stop being unreasonable. Just wait for me.] [If she had anyone else to help her, she wouldn’t have called me.] [She wanted to apologize to you for last time. I’m the one who didn’t let her.] [You know what your temper is like, Ava. I was afraid you’d hit her again.] [Can’t we just live our lives in peace? Why do you have to throw a fit over every little thing?] He sent a flood of messages. I skimmed a few. My cousins had arrived. I turned off my phone and ignored him. The meal was a somber affair. Later, at my mother’s grave, my cousins waited for me at a respectful distance. I sat on the cold ground, staring at her photograph, and the tears started to fall. There was so much I wanted to say, but the words wouldn’t come. Just before I left, I finally whispered to her. “I’m sorry. I lost that son-in-law you liked so much. “You won’t blame me, will you, Mom?” A gust of wind rustled the trees, brushing my cheek like a gentle caress. I choked back my tears, turned, and walked down the mountain without looking back. 5 The next day, I took the train back to the city. On the ride, the divorce agreement I’d had my lawyer draft arrived in my email. I reviewed it carefully, requesting a few minor changes. I didn’t ask for the company. I had other plans for that. But I demanded all of our cash assets and real estate. It was an eight-figure sum. I never expected to run into Alex at the train station. We stared at each other. Standing beside him was Sophie, the woman who was supposedly in surgery just yesterday. It clearly hadn’t been a life-or-death operation. She was on her feet, wearing a full face of natural-looking makeup, looking perfectly fine. Sophie’s eyes were red, as if she were on the verge of tears. “Don’t blame him,” she said quickly. “I’m the one who insisted he come and find you. “Of course, I know a wife is more important than a friend. “I only called him because I thought he was free for the holiday. “I didn’t know he was supposed to be visiting your family. He didn’t want to worry me, so he kept it a secret. I’m so, so sorry. “You’re not going to blame him, are you?” Alex snapped out of his shock and instinctively moved to shield Sophie behind him. I had hit her once. Ever since then, he never let me get near her. Now, his voice was low and heavy. “This is my fault. Don’t take it out on her.” Watching them, I was struck by how perfectly they complemented each other. I nodded and looked at Sophie. “Since you’re here, why don’t you both come over?” She looked surprised. Alex frowned. I looked back at Alex, my tone teasing. “What’s the matter? I thought there was nothing between you two. “If you’re just friends, are you scared to bring her home?” I started walking, and they followed. “You don’t have to speak like that,” Alex muttered from behind me. “It’s ugly. “She’s just a young girl. You scared her last time. Of course she doesn’t want to come to our house.” I stopped and looked past him at Sophie. Our eyes met, and a triumphant, challenging smirk played on her lips. “Since your sister invited me, of course I’ll come,” she said sweetly. I turned my gaze back to Alex. “Be a man, Alex. The ‘young girl’ is braver than you are.” 6 As soon as we got home, I went to the study. I printed out the divorce agreement, bound it, and brought it out to the living room, handing it to Alex. “Read this. If there are no issues, sign it. “You can take your things and leave with her today. “My mother invested twenty thousand in your company when you started. I don’t want the shares. “But all our marital assets, the cash and the properties, are mine. Everything except the company.” I said it all in one breath. Alex’s expression shifted from shock to fury. “Are you insane? “Does your mother know about this? “You went through all this just to do this? There’s a limit to these tantrums.” I looked down, my voice flat. “I’ve already informed her. “What mother doesn’t want her child to be happy? “She was good to you because she wanted you to be good to me. No matter how much she liked you, she would never choose you over her own daughter. “So you don’t have to worry about what she thinks.” I glanced at Sophie. She could barely contain her glee, her eyes fixed on Alex, full of victorious certainty. I smiled and continued. “Now that we’ve reached this point, you don’t really think my mother would still be on your side, do you?” Alex grew even angrier. “What else did you tell her? “How many times do I have to say it? Nothing happened between me and Sophie!” I threw the papers at his face. “Does it only count if you sleep with her? “Who did you adjust your passenger seat for? “Our anniversary, my birthday, my mother’s birthday… “Which of those special days this year did you not spend with her? “Are all of her friends and relatives dead? “She needs you, a married man who has nothing to do with her, to sit with her through a minor surgery? “Alex, we’re not idiots. Stop treating me like one.” My voice started out calm, but by the end, it was trembling. But Alex just repeated, his face cold, “I am not getting a divorce!” He added, “Your mom would be heartbroken!” I couldn’t help it. I screamed. “My mother is dead! How could she be heartbroken?”

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