Category: English

On my birthday, I received a confirmation text for a couples’ suite reservation, sent to my phone. I waited in my car all night, and finally, I saw my wife and a man walking out of the hotel together. I knew the man. He was Cassandra’s male secretary, Julian. I didn’t like my wife having a male secretary, so I’d asked her to fire him. Now, it seemed, she had only changed his job title, not his position in her bed. Chapter 1: The Test The moment Cassandra stepped through the door, I was sitting on the couch smoking, the floor littered with cigarette butts. Cassandra despised the smell of smoke. I’d even quit for her, once upon a time, but now, I didn’t care if she hated it or not. Yesterday was my birthday, a day meant for family togetherness. I’d prepared a table full of food early, waiting for my wife to come home. In this sprawling city, Cassandra was my only family. Every year, I spent the holidays with her; she was never absent. But yesterday, I waited and waited, and my wife never showed. All I got was that damned confirmation text for a hotel room reservation. If I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes, I wouldn’t have believed it. My wife was cheating, and it was with the male secretary I’d asked her to replace. Cassandra’s brow furrowed almost imperceptibly. “Leo, what’s gotten into you? Are you crazy? I told you I hate the smell of smoke! You were gone for just one day, and you’ve turned the house into a pigsty. It stinks!” As she spoke, Cassandra pulled open the windows and curtains, waving her hands in disgust. Before, whatever she said was law, and I never dared to disobey. Even if others called me henpecked, I’d just smile and say I didn’t mind. But now, I realized. No love meant no love. My obedience meant nothing. Cassandra pinched her nose. “Throw those cigarettes away. And don’t you dare smoke again.” I didn’t obey like before. I slowly raised my eyes to her, blowing out a smoke ring. “Yesterday was my birthday. I waited for you all night. Where were you?” Chapter 2: The Argument Hearing the accusation in my voice, Cassandra’s tone turned sharp. “Where could I have been? Overtime at the office, of course! You don’t earn a dime in this house, don’t I support us?” As soon as she said it, Cassandra seemed to realize her tone was too harsh. She walked to the dining table and lifted the lid of a takeout container. “Forget it. It’s a holiday, I don’t want to fight. I bought you a big platter of shrimp and crab legs. Go wash your hands and eat.” Any lingering warmth in my heart shattered. I let out a self-deprecating laugh. “Did you really buy them for me?” At the hotel entrance, I’d distinctly seen Cassandra handing a takeout bag to Julian, but he didn’t take it. Was this just their leftovers from the hotel? Cassandra’s movements paused. She flung the plastic gloves onto the table. “What do you mean? Is it wrong for me to buy you food? You’re a grown man, just say what you mean. I don’t have time for your games.” I said nothing. After a long moment, I stubbed out my cigarette and slowly said, “I’m allergic to seafood.” Cassandra’s body stiffened, an awkward expression flashing across her face. But she quickly recovered. “Regardless, my intentions were good. You don’t need to make a scene with me. It’s just one birthday, right? We have plenty of other holidays.” In an instant, a memory flashed in my mind: Cassandra, leaning into my shoulder, her eyes shining as she whispered, “Every single birthday, from this day forward, I want to spend it with you.” I pushed myself up from the sofa, dumping all the untouched food from yesterday. As I cleaned, I said, “Cassandra, it’s not just about missing my birthday.” “You cheated on me.” Chapter 3: The Other Man My words were clear and firm, making Cassandra’s face flush from her neck up. I ignored her reaction. “The hotel room confirmation was sent directly to my phone.” “And your lover is your secretary, isn’t he? Quite dedicated, hasn’t changed in years.” The moment the words left my lips, a flicker of panic crossed Cassandra’s face. But she immediately bristled, yelling at me, “I was working hard on a business deal, drinking myself senseless! Julian was the one who took me back to the hotel. You can’t even thank him, and you suspect us? We’ve been married five years, can’t you give me some trust?” I pressed my lips together, thinking to myself that I’d trusted her too much, which was why they’d gone undetected for so long. Cassandra, however, thought her words had worked. “Stop being so paranoid. Dealing with work is hard enough as it is.” I said calmly, “Taking you back to the hotel… and booking a couples’ suite?” Cassandra’s eyes reddened. She pointed at me, accusing, “That was the only room left at the hotel! What was I supposed to do? Sleep on the street? No wonder you were always ostracized before! Who could stand a personality like yours?” I smiled in silence. When people are guilty, they react just like Cassandra. Cassandra continued, “I think I need to seriously reconsider this relationship. I’m moving out for a while.” With that, she turned and left without looking back. Whenever we argued, she would give me the silent treatment, sometimes for a week, sometimes for a month. But the cold war always ended with me giving in first. Cassandra probably thought this time would be no different. But this time, it was. I sent a text to my friend, Mark: “Mark, I need your advice on something… about getting a divorce.” Chapter 4: Divorce Agreement Cassandra and I both came from small towns. We both got into college in the big city. We started a business together, raised investments together. Late at night, I drank myself to the point of stomach bleeding trying to close a deal, and Cassandra swore then that she would always be good to me. Only now did I realize that “forever” has an expiration date. Back then, we were so poor that we sweated through the summer, unwilling to even turn on a fan. After we got married, Cassandra said someone needed to be home, not both of us out working. Because of that, I gave up my career and became a stay-at-home husband. But the ending rarely lives up to the beginning. Sometimes, it’s a complete disaster. When Mark heard I wanted a divorce, he said to me earnestly, “I knew being a stay-at-home husband wouldn’t end well. You didn’t get any benefits, and you lost your career.” As he spoke, he offered to introduce me to a job. “A buddy of mine has an opening for a management position at his company. Want to give it a shot?” I thought about it and agreed, adding the contact info he sent me. After learning more, I tidied myself up and went for an interview at his company. The manager nodded in satisfaction at my resume, and when he found out I’d previously started a business, he hired me on the spot. He told me to start tomorrow. I quickly agreed. Exhausted, I returned home, and a call came through. It was Chloe, Cassandra’s best friend. When I answered, she laughed and said, “Leo, it’s my birthday today! Why is Cassandra the only one here? You can’t disrespect me like that! I’ve sent you the address; we’re just missing one more person.” Before I could refuse, she hung up. I checked the address; it was near home. Plus, it was her birthday, and she’d invited me directly, so I didn’t want to be a spoilsport. I quickly splashed some water on my face and headed out. When I arrived, the lively atmosphere instantly froze. I scanned the room and saw Julian sitting brazenly next to Cassandra. It seemed Cassandra had brought him to her friends’ gatherings more than once. And I, like an idiot, had believed Cassandra had actually fired him. When Cassandra saw me, her smile vanished. She questioned me coldly, “What are you doing here? Didn’t I tell you we needed some time to cool off?” Chapter 5: Provocation I looked at Cassandra’s reaction and realized she’d misunderstood. She thought I’d come to win her back. I’d always swallowed my pride and appeased her, anxiously asking her friends what she liked, just to make her happy. But now, thinking back, one-sided devotion was just being a simp, not love. Cassandra’s friend, Chloe, looked awkward and quickly tried to lighten the mood. “I invited Leo! The more, the merrier, right?” Then she waved at me, motioning for me to sit next to her. I walked over with long strides. After I sat down, Julian turned his head to greet me. “Hello. We’ve met before. I’ve heard a lot about you from Cassie these past few years.” His voice was full of provocation, perhaps thinking I’d get angry, but I didn’t. I raised my glass cordially and nodded. When I didn’t take the bait, Julian eagerly started doting on Cassandra, filling her plate. I ignored it all, quietly eating my own food. Cassandra repeatedly cast guilty glances my way, but I remained silent. Until I stood up and said, “Excuse me, I’m going out for a smoke.” Hearing that, Cassandra shot up from her seat. “Didn’t I tell you not to smoke?” Julian, sitting next to Cassandra, chimed in, “It’s okay, Cassie. Don’t be mad. You haven’t even eaten the shrimp I peeled for you yet.” I turned and looked at Cassandra coldly. “Do you think your words are gospel?” Cassandra froze in place, and ultimately said nothing more. When I returned after my smoke, Cassandra and Julian were being egged on to drink with linked arms. Seeing me return, everyone’s faces froze. Chloe stepped in to mediate. “Alright, everyone, stop it. Leo’s going to get mad.” But Cassandra said in a low voice, “Ignore him. Let’s continue.” Julian looked at me, feigning innocence, and said, “Brother-in-law, Cassie and I are just playing a game. You don’t mind, do you?” Everyone expected me to explode, but I simply crossed my legs and sat down, watching them. “No, I don’t mind. Go ahead.” Cassandra’s face darkened, as if she hadn’t expected me to say that. But Cassandra still, under my gaze, intimately linked arms with Julian and drank. When the dinner was almost over, I bid them farewell. “Everyone, enjoy your meal. I’m leaving now.” Seeing that, Cassandra’s anger flared. She rushed forward and splashed the remaining wine from her glass onto my face. “Weren’t you here to make up? What’s with the attitude? If you’re so tough, why even bother coming?” Everyone gasped. Only Julian looked at me mockingly. “Brother-in-law, Cassie’s mad. You should just give in. Dude, when you’re trying to win her back, you gotta swallow your pride.” I wiped the wine from my face, picked up a bottle of wine, and filled two glasses. I smiled at Julian. “This first toast is for you, Julian. A big thank you for keeping Cassandra warm in bed all these years, being her little boy-toy.” Cassandra’s face instantly went white. “Leo, what the hell are you talking about? Didn’t I explain everything to you?” Chapter 6: Drunk She stepped forward to block me, while Julian’s smile froze. Chloe, seeing the situation, quickly said, “Everyone’s drunk. Drunk words don’t count.” But I shoved her aside, picked up the second glass, and looked at Cassandra. “This second glass, I toast to you, my dear ‘wife.’ You’ve worked so hard, so tired out there, and then you come home and have to put on an act with me. Honestly, your acting skills are impressive.” After saying that, I violently splashed the two glasses of wine, one at Cassandra and one at Julian. The room erupted into chaos. Cassandra’s face and Julian’s hair were soaked. Ignoring Cassandra’s stunned expression, I strode out of the restaurant. As soon as I was out the door, Cassandra chased after me. She grabbed me. “Julian and I were just playing a game! Did you have to humiliate me in front of everyone? What is wrong with you?” Cassandra probably thought I was jealous because of that linked-arm drink, but I genuinely no longer cared. “You’re overthinking it. Even if you and Julian slept together right in front of me, I wouldn’t bat an eye. I’d even offer you protection.” After I said that, Cassandra’s hand struck my face, leaving a clear red mark. “If that’s your attitude, then why did you even come?” Cassandra’s chest heaved with anger, but I just said coldly, “My being here has nothing to do with you. Don’t flatter yourself.” Cassandra, however, thought I was just being stubborn. She looked at me and said, “Okay, let’s pretend today never happened. We’ll both take a step back. I’ll come home with you tonight, alright?” I was about to speak when Julian walked up, putting an arm around Cassandra’s shoulder. “Cassie, I feel so dizzy. Can you take me back to the hotel?” Cassandra glanced nervously at my reaction, then quickly pushed Julian away, explaining to me, “Don’t misunderstand, Julian’s just drunk, he can’t stand steady.” I scoffed. I know a fake drunk when I see one. It was all an act. I casually folded my arms, a mocking smile in my eyes. “Alright, you don’t need to come home tonight. Go take him back to the hotel.” Cassandra hadn’t expected my attitude. She wanted to say something else, but Julian cut her off. I, without hesitation, turned and walked away. The next morning, I arrived at the company for work and quickly familiarized myself with my new position. My colleagues here were friendly, the environment was great, and most importantly, the salary they offered me was very generous. While at work, I received a call from Cassandra. It was the first call she’d made to me since our cold war began. “Where are you?” “Busy.” “What could you possibly be busy with all day besides laundry and cooking?” Watching her relentless questioning, I said calmly, “I went to work.” Cassandra immediately flared up. “Who told you to go to work? Did I agree? I come home, and I can’t even get a hot meal. What’s the point of this marriage?” Listening to her unreasonable words, I scoffed. “I’m not your maid. I’m not obligated to do your laundry or cook for you. Whether or not I work is my right; you have no right to take that away from me.” Cassandra’s voice trembled with rage after hearing my words. She spoke fiercely, threatening, “Leo, if you choose to work, then we’re getting a divorce!” I stayed silent. Cassandra, thinking her threat had worked, said, “If you don’t want a divorce, then come home right now!” My knuckles whitened as I gripped my phone, but I answered with a sense of release, “Okay.” Chapter 7: The Explanation Before, I would have groveled, begged her to stay, because I cared about our relationship. I loved her, so I was willing to compromise. Similarly, my prompt agreement to divorce today wasn’t for any other reason; it was simply because I no longer loved her.

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It was my wedding day. Liam and I were exchanging rings when a small, ragged boy suddenly burst into the ballroom. He ran straight to me, crying his eyes out, “Mommy, I promise I’ll be good! Please don’t throw me away again, okay?” I stared at him, utterly stunned. The little boy actually bore a striking resemblance to me. The entire room erupted in whispers. Mr. and Mrs. Hayes, Liam’s parents, looked like they were about to faint from anger. “We thought you were a decent, respectable woman! We never imagined you already had a child with someone else! This is marriage fraud!” Liam’s eyes were red-rimmed. “Anya, I was completely devoted to you. How could you do this to me?” Panic surged through me. I was about to defend myself. Then, a childish voice echoed in my mind. “Grandpa, Grandma, Dad, their acting is really good! This way, I won’t just get rid of the bastard label, I’ll also make sure this bad woman gets a terrible reputation!” I spun around in shock. The little boy was still wailing, wiping tears with his sleeve. He hadn’t said a word out loud. Was I hallucinating? But then, I heard his voice again. “Mommy told me to act as pathetic as possible, the more pathetic the better. For Mommy to have a good life, I have to make this bad woman’s reputation absolutely awful.” The chilling malice in his thoughts sent an involuntary shiver down my spine. A terrifying possibility flashed through my mind. Could it be… I was hearing his thoughts? At that moment, the little boy sniffled, stopping his cries. “Mommy used to say I was her favorite child…” “But then, she started dating.” “Every time she went out with an uncle, she’d lock me alone in the house. Several times I was so hungry I fainted. Luckily, a kind neighbor, Mrs. Thompson, gave me food.” The boy’s gaunt and sickly appearance drew pity from many in the crowd. They dabbed their eyes and began to scold me. “You’re a monster of a mother! You abandoned your own son just to date!” “Liam, you’re also to blame! You’ve been dating her for over a year, you must have gone to her place at least once, right? Didn’t you notice how pitiful this little boy was?” The boy shook his head timidly. “This uncle never came to our house… Mommy brought one… four…” He held up his fingers to count. “Mommy brought a lot of different guys over.” “But not this Uncle Liam, so it’s not Uncle Liam’s fault.” Those few words sent shockwaves through the room, like pouring cold water into a hot oil pan! The entire venue erupted. Stunned, disgusted, and hateful gazes swarmed me. Voices filled with malice bombarded my ears. “I can’t believe it! The bride’s dress is so conservative, but she’s secretly messing around like this.” “I thought Liam had found a good wife, but she’s a total slut!” Liam clutched his chest in anguish, repeatedly pounding it. “Anya! I cherished you, I indulged your every whim! You were hungry late at night for noodles, I drove an hour to get them for you. When you had period cramps, I left my clients and rushed home to bring you medicine.” “Why would you do this to me?” Everyone shook their heads. “Such a good man like Liam, he really got stuck with a rotten apple.” Eleanor Hayes, Liam’s mother, sobbed uncontrollably. “Anya Reed, you demanded an eight hundred eighty thousand wedding fund, and our family scraped together every penny without a second thought. “Tell us, what have we ever done to you that was wrong? How are we supposed to show our faces in public now?” Nasty remarks flooded the air. “Don’t marry a woman like that! Make her return all the wedding fund!” “Each table at this banquet costs thousands. I say, cancel the wedding, and Anya Reed should bear all the losses for the banquet!” Suddenly, I became the target of everyone’s scorn. The little boy peeked at me through the gaps in his fingers. His mouth was tightly shut. But his arrogant voice rang crystal clear in my head. “The bad woman’s reputation is stinking now, I’m truly Mommy’s good boy!” “We’ll be living in this bad woman’s big house soon!”

I was absolutely certain now; I could indeed hear his thoughts. So, he was actually Liam Hayes’s secret son?! This realization was like a knife gouging into my heart, twisting the flesh until it was a bloody mess. The fury of being deceived and manipulated overwhelmed me. My blood ran cold. I almost collapsed! At that critical moment, my best friend and bridesmaid, Chloe Davis, steadied me. She gently rubbed my back, her voice full of concern. “Anya, don’t be afraid. I believe you.” I squeezed her hand, tears welling in my eyes. Having moved thousands of miles away to marry, none of my parents, relatives, or friends were here. They had never approved of Liam. Only Chloe, my friend of just over a year, had said, “Anya, whatever you do, I’ll support you unconditionally. Don’t worry about marrying far away; I’ll find a job here and stay with you.” Now, surrounded by hostility, she was the only one standing by me. My throat tightened. “Thank goodness for you.” Chloe stepped forward, took the microphone from the MC, Mark, and declared loudly: “Everyone, don’t be fooled by a random little boy! He claims to be Anya’s child, but what proof does he have?” “I think he must have mistaken her for someone else.” The little boy’s lip quivered, and he started crying again. Through his sobs, he cried out: “How could I mistake my own mommy?” “I… I have a photo with Mommy!” He pulled a photograph from his backpack. In it, a woman was holding him, smiling at the camera. My pupils constricted. The woman looked almost exactly like me! Before I could speak, Chloe quickly interjected, “Composite technology is so advanced these days, this must be an AI-generated image!” I looked at her gratefully. I remembered when we first met, my parents, with their traditional views, had judged her heavy makeup and wild, brightly colored hair, saying she didn’t look like a “good influence.” But now, everyone else was against me, and she believed me without hesitation. Just then, a man in a plaid shirt at one of the tables raised his hand. “I’ve been in computer-related work for over a decade, and I’m also a professional photographer. I can tell if it’s a composite at a glance.” The guests instinctively parted, clearing a path for him. Mr. Davies took the photo from the little boy, carefully examined it against the light, and then gave a definitive answer. “This photo is real!” I instinctively held my breath, trying to listen for the little boy’s thoughts. But this time, he said nothing. He just furiously suppressed the triumphant smirk on his lips. I clenched my fists, forcing myself to stay calm, and shook my head, denying, “No… that’s not me at all!” “It is you!” A strong, clear voice rang out from the entrance. It was a distinguished-looking middle-aged woman. The little boy turned and, seeing her, sprinted over. “Ms. Jenkins!” The woman stroked his hair, her voice full of sympathy. “Good boy, you’ve been through so much. Don’t be afraid, I’ll vouch for you.” She walked towards the stage microphone. “I live right across from them. I have a security camera installed at my front door. I can prove that Leo’s mother is Ms. Anya Reed, right there on stage.” “I can also prove that Leo’s claims of abuse and her promiscuous behavior are all true!” Someone in the crowd recognized her. “That’s Ms. Jenkins, the Dean of Students from Northwood High! She’s an upright woman who hates lies!” “I know her too! If Dean Jenkins says it, it must be true!” My heart sank. My pulse quickened. As Ms. Jenkins projected the security footage from her phone onto the large screen. The entire hotel ballroom erupted once again.

“They were kissing right at the entrance! How desperate can you be?” “And those men she’s kissing, they’re not even the same person!” “She picked up a mop and started hitting the little boy! She was really laying into him!” “How can a mother be like this? My heart aches for that little boy. He was crying and apologizing, but that woman hit him even harder!” In the video, the little boy cried out, “Mommy… Mommy, I’m sorry, it’s my fault! I was just so hungry that I ate the bread Mrs. Jenkins gave me. I won’t do it again, please forgive me!” “Mommy, it hurts so much, please don’t hit me anymore, Mommy, I beg you!” … The surveillance video hit me like a sledgehammer, leaving my mind almost blank. Just then, I heard the little boy’s thoughts again. “The bad woman would never guess that my mommy just happens to look exactly like her!” “And my mommy is here at the wedding too today!” Like a drowning person clutching at a lifeline, I grabbed onto the only hope I had. Without thinking, I blurted out. “It’s his mother who looks exactly like me, and she’s here in the room!” Silence fell over the hall for a moment. A fleeting look of panic crossed the little boy’s face. But he recovered quickly, his eyes quickly welling up with tears. “Mommy, I’m sorry, it’s my fault. I shouldn’t have come today… I just missed you so much…” “I’ll leave right now… I won’t ruin your wedding with Uncle Liam…” “Mommy… I hope you’ll be happy.” My eyes were practically spitting fire. If I weren’t the one involved, if I couldn’t hear his thoughts. With the little boy’s brilliant acting, I would have been fooled and cursed the person who abandoned him! *Bang!* Among the guests, someone, in a fit of rage, threw a soda can at me. The metal cut my forehead, a burning, stinging pain. “You’re such a liar! Where is she? This person who looks exactly like you, find her! Show her to us!” I covered my forehead, blood seeping through my fingers. With that person taking the lead, many guests began grabbing bottles from the tables and throwing them at me. In a desperate move, I opened an umbrella from the side of the stage, barely deflecting some of the attacks. I was utterly humiliated. Listening to the indignant guests below. “Abuse, abandonment, and cheating on Liam! Damn, this woman is trash!” “Liam, if you’re a real man, call off this wedding, or none of us brothers will ever respect you again!” “That’s right, call it off!” Hiding behind the umbrella, I spoke into the microphone with a cold voice: “This little boy is around six years old. Six years ago, I was still attending university in this city. There are many of my alumni here today. As the student council president, I hosted events almost every week.” “Tell me, has any of you ever seen me pregnant?” The hall fell silent. Someone raised a hand. “I was Anya Reed’s classmate. I can confirm she never took extended leave from school.” Another person stood up. “Yes, Anya was active in various campus activities almost every day, except for the winter and summer breaks.” I felt a slight sense of relief. Then, a familiar voice rang out from behind me. “So, what you’re saying is, Anya had the baby during a break?!” I spun around abruptly. A chill spread from my feet upwards. I looked at Chloe, my best friend, a smile plastered on her face as she continued, “If she gave birth in winter, Anya is so thin, a heavy coat would have easily hidden it. If she had a baby during winter break, and then returned to school after her confinement period…” At that point, Chloe gasped, “Anya, could this possibly be the child you had out of wedlock during college?”

She acted as if she’d just realized her mistake, immediately covering her mouth and giving me an apologetic look. “I’m so sorry, Anya… I absolutely believe you…” All eyes fell on me again. In an instant, I felt like I was stranded on a desert island. And then, an even more shocking revelation echoed in my mind. “Mommy is so smart! She pretended to be the bad woman’s best friend, just to deliver a crushing blow today!” “To make sure Ms. Jenkins’ security camera captured the evidence, Mommy deliberately got the same blonde curly hair as the bad woman and put on that act with me.” “And all those heavy makeups and brightly colored wigs, just so the bad woman wouldn’t recognize her… Poor Mommy.” This news hit me like a massive boulder thrown into water, stirring up a storm in my heart. I blinked my dry eyes, slowly surveying the room. “Since you’re all so convinced this little boy is my child, fine. I demand a live DNA test.” “At the same time, I also demand that Liam and this child undergo a DNA test!” My words rang out, clear and firm. “If he truly is my child, I will get on my knees and apologize to everyone! The wedding banquet will be canceled, and I will bear all expenses myself!” To my surprise, Liam and his parents agreed without hesitation. “Good, I don’t want to wrongly accuse you either. Anya,” Liam looked at me steadily, “if the child isn’t yours, then for the rest of my life, all my assets, even my very life, are yours.” “Consider it my compensation to you.” For a fleeting moment, I wondered if the thoughts I’d heard were just my imagination. But the little boy’s malicious voice quickly pulled me back to reality. “I can’t wait! Once this woman leaves, humiliated, the money Dad and she put into the pre-marital loyalty fund will all be ours!” It was like a beam of light cutting through a thick fog. I finally understood the real reason behind the Hayes family’s elaborate scheme at the wedding! My teeth gnashed audibly. A six-year-old secret son, framing me at my wedding, and trying to steal all my savings and my house! And Chloe, my supposed best friend, her approach from the very beginning had been full of ulterior motives! A surging wave of anger threatened to drown me. I took a deep breath, struggling to remain calm. My hand trembled as I pointed at Chloe. “Furthermore, I also demand that Chloe undergo a paternity test with this boy!” “Because,” I strode over, grabbing a handful of Chloe’s hair, revealing the same hairstyle and color as mine underneath. Then I grabbed a bucket of water, prepared for a wedding game, and splashed it onto her face. “She looks exactly like me. I suspect she is the boy’s real mother!” When Chloe’s true face appeared before everyone, Many gasped sharply. “Aren’t they twins? They look so alike!”

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On our wedding anniversary, my wife told me her company was holding a corporate outing, including a two-day, one-night hot spring spa retreat. After she left, I decided to surprise her by redecorating the house. While cleaning, I swept out a box of emergency contraceptive pills from under our bed. My heart lurched. We had been trying to conceive; why would she be taking these? My wife’s call came in. Her voice was languid, tinged with a slight pant. “Honey, the hot springs are so relaxing, I almost fell asleep.” I looked at my phone, displaying a severe thunderstorm alert – all outdoor hot spring resorts were closed. What kind of “corporate outing” required emergency contraception? “Hey, honey.” On the other end of the line, Chloe’s voice was laced with the languor of just waking up, and a hint of a breathy sigh. “The hot springs are so relaxing, I almost fell asleep.” I clutched my phone, standing in the middle of the living room. The bright new overhead lights illuminated every corner of the home we’d shared for three years, leaving no shadow. “Really? Get some good rest then.” My voice was steady, betraying no hint of the turmoil within. “I just miss you a little.” Chloe chuckled softly on her end. “I’ll bring you back a souvenir when I return.” “Okay.” I hung up. On my phone screen, the severe thunderstorm alert issued by the weather station was still glaring crimson. “Due to strong convective weather, all outdoor hot spring resorts and mountain tourism projects in the city are temporarily suspended.” I tossed my phone onto the sofa, my gaze falling back to the coffee table. Underneath the table was what I had just swept out from under the bed. A box of emergency contraceptive pills. Only one pill remained. The manufacturing date on the box was three months ago. We’d been married for three years, and we started trying for a baby a year ago. She had gotten rid of everything in the house that could potentially affect conception. More than once, I’d seen her cry with disappointment when her period arrived. She said she longed for a child of ours. So, what was this box of pills doing here? I picked up the pill box, turning it over and over in my hands. The unsettling thought grew clearer and clearer in my mind. What kind of “corporate outing” required going to “hot springs” in a thunderstorm? What kind of “corporate outing” required taking emergency contraception? My gaze began to sweep across the living room. This home, which I had personally decorated, intending to surprise her, now felt utterly unfamiliar. I stormed into the bedroom and yanked open her nightstand drawer. On the bottom shelf, tucked away, was an old tablet she rarely used. I pressed the power button. The screen lit up, paused on a hotel booking page. The Grandview Hotel & Suites. In our city. Check-in time: today. Check-out time: tomorrow noon. Reservation name: Marcus Thorne. I recognized that name. It was Chloe’s new boss. She’d been mentioning him a lot lately, saying he was young and promising, and had been very supportive of her career. I clicked on the order details. Executive King Room. The special request note read: “Honeymoon setup, with plenty of roses.” My stomach did a violent flip. I rushed to the bathroom, clutching the toilet, dry heaving. Nothing came up, only searing acid burning my esophagus. A surprise? I was certainly preparing a hell of a surprise. I splashed cold water on my face, looking at the man with bloodshot eyes staring back at me in the mirror. I couldn’t just let this go. I had to see. See it with my own eyes. I changed my clothes, grabbed my car keys, and walked out of that suffocating house.

The Grandview Hotel & Suites was opulent, almost blindingly luxurious. I parked my car across the street and looked up at the imposing skyscraper. Chloe and that man, Marcus Thorne, were somewhere behind one of those windows in this building right now. What were they doing? Were they “almost falling asleep” as she’d claimed on the phone, or…? I couldn’t bear to think further. I walked into the hotel lobby and headed straight for the front desk. “Hello, sir, how may I help you?” The front desk agent’s smile was professional yet distant. “I’m looking for someone. My wife, Chloe Davis. Which room is she in?” “I apologize, sir, but to protect guest privacy, we cannot disclose room information.” I had expected this. I pulled out my phone and displayed a photo of Chloe and me on our wedding day. “She’s my wife. It’s our wedding anniversary today, and I’m here to give her a surprise.” I tried my best to make my expression look sincere and loving. “See, I even brought her a gift.” I held up a paper bag, which contained a bouquet of flowers I had just bought from the flower shop downstairs. A flicker of sympathy crossed the agent’s face, but she still shook her head. “I’m truly sorry, sir, but rules are rules.” I didn’t press the issue. I walked over to the lobby lounge area and sat down, my eyes fixed on the elevators. I didn’t know which floor, which room they were in. I sat there like an idiot, waiting. Time ticked by, second by second. People came and went in the lobby, each with a different expression on their face. Joyful, tired, numb. Only I sat there, a complete outsider. My phone vibrated. It was a SnapChat message from Chloe. An image: a pair of feet soaking in hot spring water, with rose petals floating on the surface. The caption read: “Honey, it’s really so relaxing. Too bad you’re not here.” My hand started to tremble. That picture was expertly Photoshopped. The steam from the hot spring, the delicate rose petals, even her toes looked so relaxed. If I hadn’t known the truth, I would have been touched by her “sharing.” Just then, the elevator chimed “ding.” Two figures emerged. The man was tall and handsome, in a perfectly tailored suit. The woman was petite and lovely, wearing a beautiful dress I had never seen before. It was Chloe. She was clinging to the man’s arm, a radiant smile on her face that I had never seen directed at me. It wasn’t the gentle, domestic smile she usually reserved for me. It was a dazzling smile, full of admiration and flirty charm, the kind of smile only a woman deeply in love could have. They walked past me, heading towards the hotel’s revolving doors. Chloe’s head was affectionately resting on the man’s shoulder. “Marcus, you’re so good to me.” Her voice was so sickeningly sweet, it could melt sugar. I sat on the sofa, unmoving. So, this was her “corporate outing.” So, this was why she lied. I slowly stood up and followed them.

They didn’t leave the hotel; instead, they walked into the hotel’s ground-floor fine dining restaurant. Soft music played in the restaurant, the lighting was dim, and the atmosphere was perfect. A waiter led them to a window-side table. I found a corner table and sat down, hidden behind a large potted plant, from where I could see them perfectly. Marcus gallantly pulled out a chair for Chloe. Chloe sat down, looking up at him, her eyes sparkling like stars. “Marcus, you’re so good to me, I don’t know how I can ever repay you.” Marcus smiled, reaching out to stroke her hair. “Silly girl, just keep doing good work, that’s the best way to repay me.” “Your proposal this time was excellent. I’ve already put in a word upstairs; you’re a shoo-in for department head next quarter.” Chloe’s eyes lit up. “Really? Thank you, Marcus!” “No need to be so formal with me.” Marcus’s gaze was full of adoration. They ordered their meal and began to eat. Throughout the meal, Marcus kept dotingly placing food on Chloe’s plate, and Chloe ate like a pampered kitten, content and docile. Watching this scene, I felt like I was watching a romance movie. And I, was a mere audience member, not even a supporting character. I ordered the strongest whiskey and downed it in one gulp. The fiery liquid burned my throat, but couldn’t extinguish the fire in my heart. I took out my phone, aimed it at them, and pressed record. I wanted to record everything. I wanted her to see what kind of face she showed when she was with another man. Halfway through dinner, Marcus’s phone rang. He glanced at the caller ID, frowned slightly, but answered it anyway. “Hello, honey.” The moment he spoke, Chloe’s face changed. “I’m out entertaining clients, having dinner.” “Yes, I might be home a bit late tonight.” “Okay, okay, I know, you go to bed early.” He hung up, a slightly awkward expression on his face. Chloe looked down, poking her steak with her fork, saying nothing. “What’s wrong?” Marcus asked her. Chloe looked up, her eyes red-rimmed. “Marcus, what exactly are we doing?” Marcus sighed, reaching out to hold her hand. “Chloe, just give me a little more time. There’s no more love between her and me, I’m in the process of getting a divorce.” “Once I sort things out at home, I’ll give you a proper title.” Chloe’s tears fell. “But I…” “No buts.” Marcus interrupted her. “I know you’re upset, but for our future, please bear with it a little longer, okay?” Chloe looked at him, then nodded. Marcus smiled with satisfaction, leaned in, and kissed her forehead. I stopped recording. Enough. This was already enough. I put down my glass, stood up, and prepared to leave this sickening place. Just as I turned, a commotion erupted at the restaurant entrance. A woman dressed in expensive clothes, accompanied by two bodyguards, stormed in, radiating fury. “Marcus Thorne!” The woman’s sharp voice pierced the restaurant’s tranquility.

The blood drained from Marcus’s face. He shot up, looking at the woman at the entrance, his eyes wide with panic. “How did you get here?” Chloe was also stunned, sitting there frozen, at a complete loss. The woman, her heels clicking on the floor, took a few quick steps to their table. She didn’t even glance at Marcus; her sharp eyes were fixed solely on Chloe. “So you’re the homewrecker who’s been seducing my husband?” The woman’s voice wasn’t loud, but it carried a chilling edge. All eyes in the restaurant turned to them. Chloe’s face was ashen, her lips trembling, unable to utter a single word. “Honey, let me explain, it’s not what you think, this is my colleague, we…” Marcus frantically tried to explain. “Slap!” The woman’s hand swung, delivering a harsh slap across Marcus’s face. The crisp sound silenced the entire restaurant. “You shut up!” The woman pointed a finger at Marcus’s nose, yelling, “I knew something was off with you. I had someone follow you for half a month! And you still dare to tell me she’s a colleague?” She finished, then turned to Chloe, her eyes overflowing with scorn and rage. “You look decent enough, so why are you so utterly pathetic, needing to steal someone else’s husband?” Chloe trembled from head to toe, tears streaming down her face like broken pearls. “I didn’t… it’s not…” Her defense was painfully weak. “Still trying to deny it!” The woman grabbed a glass of red wine from the table and poured it directly over Chloe’s head. The crimson liquid ran down her hair and cheeks, soaking her beautiful dress, leaving her utterly disgraced. “Ah!” Chloe shrieked. “Marcus! Your wife is crazy!” She cried out to Marcus for help. Marcus stood beside her, his face ashen, but he dared not say a word. “I’m crazy?” The woman scoffed. “Today, I’ll show you just how crazy I can be!” With that, she gestured to the bodyguards behind her. The two bodyguards stepped forward and grabbed Chloe by the arms. “What are you doing! Let go of me!” Chloe struggled desperately. The surrounding diners began to whisper, some pulling out their phones to take pictures. I sat in the corner, coldly observing the farce. Was this Chloe’s idea of a “better life”? Was this the high branch she was willing to betray me for, to climb? How utterly laughable. The woman’s gaze swept across the restaurant, finally landing on me. Perhaps she thought that among everyone present, I was the most engrossed, the most calm. She walked towards me. Her high heels clicked on the floor, each step echoing like a blow to my heart. “Well, sir, enjoying the show?” She stood before me, looking down at me. I didn’t answer. Her gaze passed over me, landing on the large decorative mirror hanging on the wall behind me. In the mirror, the absurd scene was clearly reflected. And it also reflected Chloe’s tear-streaked face, filled with terror. Following the woman’s gaze, Chloe also saw me in the mirror. Our eyes met. Her pupils constricted sharply. The color drained from her face in an instant. It was a fear and despair even deeper than when she was caught in the act just moments before. She finally saw me. “Alex…” Chloe’s voice was an unsteady tremor. Marcus’s wife followed Chloe’s gaze, looked back at me, then at Chloe again, a cruel smile forming on her lips.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “299241”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller

“Darling, look! A symbol of our love!” My wife, Stella, blushing prettily, lifted her wrist at the alumni gathering, revealing the expensive couple’s watch. Everyone looked at me with envy, saying I’d married the perfect woman. But they didn’t know. Just the night before, on our wedding night, I’d seen a faded butterfly tattoo on the inner side of her pale thigh. And a string of blurred numbers. Those numbers were the employee ID for a notorious bar: “The Golden Cage.” “Liam, you must’ve won the lottery in a past life to snag a bombshell like Stella Reed!” My childhood best friend, Chris, slurred, his arm slung around my neck, reeking of alcohol. “The queen of our college, man! So many guys chased her, and you’re the one who got lucky!” I laughed, pushing him away, and raised my glass. My gaze, however, drifted uncontrollably towards Stella, who was chatting and laughing with some female classmates not far away. She was wearing a pale yellow dress, her long hair cascading over her shoulders. When she smiled, her eyes crinkled into sweet crescents, making her look gentle and pure, like a blooming lily. Every man in the room had their eyes glued to her. And this beautiful woman was now my wife. A tremendous sense of satisfaction and happiness swelled within me. I downed the wine in one gulp. The spicy liquid slid down my throat, but my heart felt sweeter than honey. After the gathering, I helped a tipsy Stella back to our freshly decorated new home. Her cheeks were flushed, her eyes hazy. Leaning against me, she mumbled drunkenly, “Husband, I love you so much… Marrying you is the happiest thing that’s ever happened to me.” My heart instantly melted. Gently placing her on the bed, I kissed her forehead and softly said, “Me too.” Just as I was about to get up to pour her a glass of water, her long dress hitched up as she shifted, revealing a stretch of snowy white thigh. And, on its inner side, that stark, greenish mark. My movements froze. It was a butterfly, its wings already somewhat blurred, its color severely faded, clearly an old tattoo from many years ago. Below the butterfly, there was an even smaller, almost illegible string of numbers. I leaned closer, squinting in the dim bedside lamp light to make it out carefully. “…7013?” The number exploded in my mind like a clap of thunder. My blood rushed to my head instantly, then turned to ice the next second. The Golden Cage. Number 7013. The code name I thought I’d never remember again, like a lurking demon that had slumbered for years, clawed its way out of the depths of my memory, a wicked grin on its face. Five years ago, while still in college, I’d worked as a part-time waiter at “The Golden Cage” to save up for my sick mother’s surgery. It was a hell on earth, a place of lavish decadence and rampant vice. I’d witnessed countless sordid transactions with my own eyes and remembered the numb smiles on those girls’ faces. Every girl “working” there had an internal number, making it easy for clients to “order” them. They were like products on a shelf, openly priced. And I had a particularly strong impression of “7013.” Because she had the most clients. She was rumored to be the top girl there, code-named “Butterfly.” This was because she excelled at a provocative “butterfly dance” and knew best how to please men. Whenever those bloated, wealthy clients spoke of her, they’d exchange knowing, lewd smiles, saying she was “innocent yet utterly seductive,” the most irresistible poison for any man. I was just a poor student back then, barely daring to even glance in her direction. I’d only glimpsed her back once when the manager sent me to a VIP room to deliver drinks. She wore a revealing dancer’s outfit, her slender waist swaying under the hazy lights, like a butterfly on the verge of shattering. At the time, I only felt pity and sadness, quickly dropping off the drinks and leaving. I just couldn’t reconcile that image of a woman of the night with the pure, gentle wife sleeping peacefully beside me. No, absolutely not! Stella Reed was a junior from my college. We met at a campus job fair. She was pure, kind, and came from a well-to-do family—both her parents were university professors, so she’d been pampered like a princess her whole life. We dated for two years, and she was always very conservative; our most intimate gesture was just kissing. She said she wanted to save her best self for our wedding night. How could such a virtuous girl… how could she be that escort, number 7013? It had to be a coincidence! Yes, just a damn coincidence! I repeated it to myself over and over, trying to quell the rising tide of panic and disgust that threatened to consume me. I stumbled back two steps, my body icy cold, my hands and feet trembling uncontrollably. I stared intently at Stella on the bed, the woman I deeply loved. Her sleeping face was serene and beautiful, a sweet smile still gracing her lips, as if she were dreaming pleasant dreams. But that glaring butterfly on her inner thigh was like a giant mockery, instantly shattering all my happiness. My stomach churned violently. I rushed to the bathroom, throwing up everything until there was nothing left but bitter bile. I clung to the wall, trying to stand. The man in the mirror was pale, eyes bloodshot, looking utterly wretched, like a beaten dog. I turned on the faucet, splashing cold water on my face repeatedly, trying to calm myself down. No, I couldn’t jump to conclusions just yet. Maybe… maybe there was some misunderstanding. I needed proof, proof that could completely convince myself. My gaze fell on Stella’s handbag, placed on her dresser. A crazy thought, completely out of my control, surfaced.

My rational mind screamed at me, telling me this was despicable, a complete violation of trust. But my body, as if possessed by a demon, moved on its own. My hand trembled violently, almost unable to hold the delicate ladies’ handbag. I unzipped it. Inside were a wallet, lipstick, keys… and a very old-looking cell phone. It wasn’t her current, latest iPhone model, but an old Android phone, at least five or six years old, with several cracks on the screen. My heart constricted sharply. Why would she carry such an old phone with her? My trembling fingers pressed the power button. The screen lit up; there was no password. The photo album was empty, nothing at all. Refusing to give up, I clicked on file management. In a folder named “Recycle Bin,” I saw several deleted photos. My fingertip hovered above the screen, hesitating to tap. I was afraid. Afraid of seeing the truth that would utterly destroy me. But in the end, I restored them. The photos loaded one by one. The images were a bit blurry, the lighting dim, the background appearing to be a luxuriously decorated karaoke room. In the first photo, a scantily clad girl was holding a wine glass, smiling at the camera. Her smile was alluring and sultry, completely unlike the Stella Reed I knew. But that face, the face I’d loved for two years, kissed countless times—I couldn’t possibly mistake it! My breath caught in my throat. The second photo: she was hugging a pot-bellied middle-aged man, his hand on her thigh, and she was laughing flirtatiously. The third: she was kneeling on the floor, pouring wine for a man, the low-cut neckline of her dance outfit revealing her cleavage. The fourth… I couldn’t look anymore. The phone slipped from my hand with a *clatter*, crashing to the floor, its screen instantly shattering. All strength drained from me, I collapsed onto the cold floor, my mind a blank. Those photos were like poisoned daggers, each one a fresh stab, slowly flaying my heart. So, my pure, flawless wife—the beautiful woman I’d held so dear, treated like a princess—had such a sordid past. So, all the sweet nothings she’d whispered to me, all the innocence and shyness she’d displayed in front of me, were nothing but an act. She was a master manipulator, an experienced actress! What was I? A clueless fool, a pathetic stepping stone she used to escape her past? No wonder, no wonder she’d always avoided intimacy during our two years of dating. It wasn’t because she was conservative; it was because she’d been around the block, terrified I’d discover the secrets of her body! No wonder she never talked about her college days. Every time I asked, she’d vaguely change the subject. No wonder her parents, despite being professors, had been so eager about our marriage, barely making any demands, only accepting a token wedding contribution. They must have known their daughter’s secret all along, desperate to marry her off to some unsuspecting good guy! All the suspicious points, at this moment, strung together into a clear thread, pointing to a truth that tore me apart. I paced the room like a caged beast, the fury and humiliation in my chest threatening to consume me whole. I wanted to rush over, drag her out of bed, and fiercely demand why she’d done this to me! But when I saw her sleeping face, my steps faltered. That face was still so beautiful, so innocent. I even began to wonder if all this was just a nightmare. No, that butterfly tattoo, those indecent photos, all reminded me, with brutal clarity, that this was not a dream. I painfully covered my face, tears streaming uncontrollably through my fingers. I don’t know how long I sat on the floor, until the sky outside the window turned a fish-belly white. Stella woke up. Rubbing her sleepy eyes, she saw me sitting on the floor and was startled. “Darling, what’s wrong? Why are you sitting on the floor?” She walked over anxiously, trying to help me up. I violently shook off her hand, with such force that she stumbled back two steps, hitting the edge of the bed. She froze, her face filled with bewilderment and confusion: “Liam, you… you hurt me.” I raised my bloodshot eyes, staring intensely at her, my voice hoarse as if from hell: “Stella Reed, how much longer are you going to keep up this damn charade?” She was terrified by my appearance, her face instantly turning ashen: “You… what are you talking about? I don’t understand.” “Don’t understand?” I sneered, picking up the shattered phone from the floor and throwing it violently at her. “Then do you understand *these*?” Stella’s gaze fell on the phone screen. When she saw the photos, the color drained from her face completely. Her body began to tremble uncontrollably, her lips quivering, unable to utter a single word. That look of panic undoubtedly confirmed everything. My heart hit rock bottom. “Why?” I clenched my fists, my fingernails digging deep into my palms, my voice a desperate roar, “Why did you lie to me? What did you take me for? A fool to clean up your mess?” Stella’s whole body jolted. Tears streamed down her face like broken pearls. She lunged forward, trying to grab my leg, but I kicked her away. “Don’t touch me! You make me sick!” My words were like a knife, plunging deep into her heart. She fell to the floor, covering her face, letting out suppressed, painful sobs. “I’m sorry… Liam, I’m so sorry…” she cried, gasping for breath, “I didn’t mean to lie to you… I just… I just loved you too much, I was afraid you’d leave me if you knew…” “Loved me?” I laughed bitterly as if I’d heard the biggest joke. “Is *that* how you loved me? With lies and deceit? Stella Reed, do you know how disgusted I am by you right now?” “No… it’s not like that…” She desperately shook her head, crawling towards me, crying, “Listen to me, please, it’s not what you think… back then, my family had problems, my dad gambled and owed a lot of money, I had no choice but to…” “Enough!” I roughly cut her off. “I don’t want to hear your sob story! All I know is that my wife is a whore who’s been with anyone!” With that, I slammed the door shut, leaving her desperate cries far behind.

I ran through the streets like a madman. The cold morning wind filled my lungs, but it did nothing to cool the burning pain and fury in my heart. I stopped in front of a diner and ordered two bottles of the strongest whiskey. I chugged it down, chasing it with cold pastries. The fiery liquid burned my esophagus and stomach, but I felt no pain. Because the pain in my heart was a thousand times worse. Passersby shot me strange looks, but I didn’t care. I was a joke now, a colossal joke. I thought I’d married the purest angel in the world, but it turned out she was a devil who’d wallowed in the mud. I pulled out my phone and scrolled through photos of Stella and me. In the pictures, she smiled so sweetly, so innocently, nestled beside me like a docile kitten. But now, that face looked full of hypocrisy and filth. I deleted the photos one by one. With each deletion, my heart was flayed anew. When I reached the last one, I stopped. It was our wedding photo. I wore a suit, handsome and upright; she wore a wedding dress, beautiful and moving. We smiled at the camera, radiating happiness. I stared at the photo for a long time, but ultimately couldn’t bring myself to delete it. I tossed the phone aside, picked up the whiskey bottle, and took another long swig. I don’t know how long I drank until my stomach churned, and I swayed as I pushed myself up from the table. I couldn’t just let this go. I couldn’t let her and her entire family play me for a fool. I needed answers. I would go to her parents and expose their family’s deception! I hailed a cab and gave the address of Stella’s parents’ house. It was an upscale faculty residential area, quiet and secluded. I’d been there a few times. Each time, my mother-in-law and father-in-law had been incredibly warm, calling me “dear Liam” as if I were their own son. Now, thinking back, how much guilt and calculation must have been hidden behind that excessive warmth! I rang the doorbell. My mother-in-law opened the door. She froze when she saw me, then smiled warmly: “Oh, Liam, what a surprise! Why are you here so early? Where’s Stella? Isn’t she with you?” I pushed her aside emotionlessly and walked straight in. My father-in-law was sitting on the living room sofa, reading the newspaper. He also greeted me with a smile: “Liam, come in, have a seat.” I scanned the elegantly decorated living room. My father-in-law’s calligraphy hung on the wall, with five large characters that read “Harmony brings prosperity.” I found it incredibly ironic. “I’m not here for a visit,” I said coldly, my voice devoid of emotion. “I’m here to ask you, do you feel a great sense of achievement from playing me for a fool?” The smiles on my in-laws’ faces froze. They exchanged glances, and my mother-in-law tentatively asked, “Liam, you… what do you mean? Did you argue with Stella? Husbands and wives make up, whatever it is, let’s talk it through…” “Talk it through?” I sneered. “Did your precious daughter think about ‘talking it through’ when she was the top call girl at ‘The Golden Cage’? Did you think about this day when you packaged a whore as a sophisticated lady and married her off to me?” The moment “The Golden Cage” left my lips, my in-laws’ faces turned instantly ashen. My father-in-law’s newspaper fell to the floor. His lips trembled, and he pointed at me, unable to utter a single word for a long time. My mother-in-law, with a *thud*, collapsed directly onto the floor. “How… how do you know…” My mother-in-law’s voice was shaking uncontrollably. “How do I know?” I advanced on them step by step, the hatred in my eyes almost tangible. “I also know her code name was ‘Butterfly,’ and her number was 7013! I also know that for money, she would kneel on the floor and lick a man’s shoes! Are you satisfied now?” Every word I spoke was like a heavy hammer, striking their hearts. My mother-in-law covered her face and burst into heartbroken sobs. My father-in-law, trembling all over, suddenly stood up and raised his hand, intending to slap me. I grabbed his wrist, with such force that he let out a muffled groan of pain. “What? You want to hit me? What right do you have to hit me?” I stared intensely at him, enunciating each word. “Was it you, her own father, who personally pushed your daughter into that fire pit?” Stella had said she went there because her family had problems, her father owed gambling debts… My father-in-law’s face turned from white to green, then from green to red, before he finally dropped his arm in defeat. He seemed to age ten years in an instant, collapsing back onto the sofa, clutching his head, letting out a pained groan. “It’s my fault… all my fault… I was blinded by greed, I ruined Stella, and I ruined you too…” He cried tears of regret, his voice filled with remorse, “I’m not human, I deserve to die…” Watching his anguished face, I felt no satisfaction, only a cold emptiness. So, Stella hadn’t lied. She really did go down that path to pay off her father’s debts. But what did that change? The facts were the facts. She had deceived me, and her body had been defiled by countless men. The thought of her once pleasing other men, the thought of her using the mouth that had kissed me to pleasure others, made me sick to my stomach. “What’s the point of saying all this now?” I released his hand, stepped back two paces, and looked at them indifferently. “I came here today to tell you that this marriage is over. You can take your daughter back. Liam Miller cannot ‘enjoy’ her.” With that, I turned and walked out, without a single backward glance. Behind me, I heard my mother-in-law’s heart-wrenching cries and my father-in-law’s desperate pleas. “Liam! Don’t go! Listen to us! Stella had her reasons!” “We’re sorry! Hit us, curse us, do whatever you want! Please, don’t divorce Stella, she can’t live without you!” I ignored them, quickening my pace out of that suffocating place. The sun shone on me, but I felt no warmth at all. My marriage, my life, had, on this day, completely become a joke. Returning to the empty new home, the sight of all the red wedding decorations was unbearable. I rushed over, tearing down the red paper “囍” characters from the walls, ripping them to shreds. Stella wasn’t home. Good. I didn’t want to see her hypocritical face right now. I sat on the sofa all day, neither eating nor drinking, like a soulless statue. Until evening, when the doorbell rang. I thought Stella had returned, and a wave of irritation surged through me. I got up to open the door, ready to kick her out. But standing outside was someone I hadn’t expected. It was Chris. My childhood best friend, and my best man at the wedding. He saw me, froze for a moment, then frowned: “Liam, what happened to you? Why do you look like this? Where’s Stella? She called me, crying her eyes out, saying you don’t want her anymore. What the hell happened?” I looked at him and suddenly laughed. A laugh uglier than any cry. “Chris,” I grabbed his shoulders, staring intently into his eyes, “Tell me, did you know about Stella Reed all along?”

Chris’s eyes visibly darted away. That subtle movement instantly ignited all the suspicions in my heart. “You look me in the eye, you bastard!” I roared, unconsciously tightening my grip. “You’re my best friend! Tell me, were you in on this, too, trying to fool me?” Chris winced from my grip, struggling a bit, a pained and conflicted expression on his face. “Liam, calm down first! Just listen to me…” “Listen to what? That she was forced? That she had her reasons?” I cut him off hysterically. “I don’t want to hear that BS! I just want to know if *you*, my best friend, knew from the start what kind of woman she was!” Chris fell silent. His silence was more devastating than any words. My heart, in an instant, turned completely cold. I violently released him, stumbling back two steps, looking at him in disbelief. “You… you really knew?” Chris sighed, his face filled with guilt: “Liam, I’m sorry. I… I only found out a little while ago.” “How long ago?” I pressed, my voice trembling. “Just… just before you two decided to get married,” Chris said with difficulty. “I accidentally overheard her on a FaceTime call with a friend and found out some… some things about her past.” “Then why didn’t you tell me?” My voice was squeezed out through gritted teeth. “How could I tell you?” Chris looked bitter. “You two were so in love then, about to get married. If I told you, would you have believed me? You’d just think I was jealous, trying to sow discord! Besides… I saw that Stella truly loved you, and she was trying to leave her past behind. I thought, everyone makes mistakes, let the past be the past…” “The past?” I gave a bitter laugh. “Chris, that’s not a scratched finger that a band-aid can heal! That’s a festering wound in my very bones! How can I just pretend nothing happened?” I pointed to my chest, yelling at him: “Do you know what I’ve been through these past two days? I feel like a goddamn idiot! The whole world knew the truth, and I was the only one kept in the dark! I gave all my love, all my trust, to a liar, a whore! You’re my brother, and you just stood by and watched me walk into a trap!” “Liam!” Chris also got agitated. “I admit I was wrong about this! But you can’t talk about Stella like that! She was desperate back then! Do you know how much money her dad owed? Three million! Loan sharks! Those people were coming to their house every day, smashing things, threatening to sell her mom into a black market mine! What could a twenty-year-old girl do?” “So she became a prostitute?” I retorted, eyes red. “There are so many ways to make money in the world, why did she choose the cheapest one?” “Because it was fast money!” Chris yelled back. “Every day she didn’t pay, the interest piled up by thousands! She didn’t have time to earn money slowly! You worked at ‘The Golden Cage’ yourself, you know what kind of place it is! Do you think she *wanted* to? The first time she was forced to take a client, she almost took her own life! Her dad was on his knees, begging her to save the family! What else could she do?” Chris’s words were like a bucket of ice water, dousing me, instantly calming me down a lot. Yes, I had been in that place. I had seen the desperation and numbness of those girls. I had also seen how ruthless loan sharks could be. But… “Then why didn’t she tell me?” I clutched my head in agony. “If she had told me earlier, we could have figured something out together, I could have helped her pay off the debt! Why treat me like an idiot and lie to me?” “She was scared,” Chris’s voice lowered. “She was afraid that if you knew, you’d look down on her, that you’d think she was dirty. Liam, honestly, if she had confessed everything at the beginning of your relationship, would you still have been with her? Would you still have married her?” I froze. I didn’t know. I really didn’t know. My rational mind told me I should. Because I loved *her*, not her past. But emotionally, I couldn’t imagine if, knowing my beloved girlfriend had such an unspeakable past, I could still embrace and kiss her without any reservations, as before. “See, even you’re hesitating,” Chris sighed. “So you can’t blame her. She’s just a pathetic woman who wanted to grasp happiness. She lied to you, that’s wrong. But her love for you was real.” “Love me?” I chuckled self-mockingly. “Perhaps. But this love is too heavy, too dirty. I can’t bear it.” I pulled out the divorce papers I had already prepared from the drawer and slammed them on the table. “Chris, help me give these to her. The house and car are hers; I’m leaving with nothing. I only have one demand: from now on, we’re strangers for life.” Chris looked at the divorce papers, his expression changing repeatedly. “Liam, are you really going to be this absolute? Give her another chance, give yourself another chance, okay?” “No more chances,” I shook my head, my eyes completely dead. “From the moment I knew the truth, all that was left between us was disgust.” Chris tried to persuade me further, but I simply pushed him out the door. With a *bang*, I closed the door, shutting out all sounds related to her. I leaned against the door, slowly sliding to the floor. Tears, once again, streamed down my face against my will. Goodbye, Stella Reed. Goodbye, the love I once thought would last a lifetime. Over the next few days, I moved back into my pre-marriage bachelor apartment and began living like a zombie. I took extended leave, locking myself in my room all day, numbing myself with alcohol and nicotine. Stella called me countless times, sent countless messages. I didn’t answer a single call, didn’t read a single message. I just wanted to completely erase this woman from my world as quickly as possible. A week later, Chris came again. He brought news I hadn’t expected. “Stella Reed is in the hospital,” he stood at the door, his face grim. “Gastric bleeding, plus a relapse of depression. She’s still in critical condition.” “Depression?” I froze, momentarily unable to react. “Yes, she’s had it before. It was… she got it during *that* period,” Chris’s eyes held a hint of compassion. “Later, she met you and slowly got better. This sudden divorce hit her too hard, so it relapsed.”

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My brother-in-law violated me, and my whole family forced me to keep silent. He grew bolder, and when I fought back, he beat me to death. Jade stuffed me into a bag, Mom cleaned up the blood. Dad saw my hand twitch. He grabbed an ashtray and slammed it down on my head with brutal force. When I opened my eyes again, I was at Jade’s wedding, posing for family photos. “Little lady on the left, smile a bit more, don’t be so stiff.” The last bit of air was sucked from my lungs. My mouth fell open, and I screamed silently, lying in the damp earth. Around me, there was endless darkness. In the final moment before losing consciousness, a flash of light appeared. I didn’t blink, just stared straight ahead. The silent world suddenly burst into noise. The smell of rich food and alcohol, polite laughter, crying children, and Jade’s disgusted voice. “Daisy, haven’t you ever had your picture taken? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.” She sneered, muttering under her breath, “Honestly, one bad apple spoils the whole bunch.” I looked at Jade, Preston, Dad, Mom. They were all dressed in festive clothes, and on the big screen, pictures of Jade and Preston’s loving moments played. “I’m sorry, Jade. Should we take another one?” I lowered my head, a slight smile playing on my lips. Yes, I was the vengeful spirit back to haunt them. “Forget it. You’ve always been trouble since you were little.” “Jade, how can you talk about your sister like that? I think she looks just fine! Especially my Jade, you look like a total siren.” “Oh, you think I look like a siren? Wait till tonight, I’ll show you.” “I wish it was our wedding night right now,” Preston said, his gaze fixed on me. Jade blushed and hurried off to greet guests. I felt awkward and started to leave, but he grabbed my arm. “Aren’t you going to thank me?” I forced a smile, timidly saying, “Thank you, Preston.” He patted my head, sighing dramatically, “Still just a kid, huh? What did you hear just now?” “Wh-what? I didn’t hear anything.” Preston smiled, a closed-mouth smile, his thin eye corners stretching outwards, his lips curving upwards in an almost unnaturally deliberate arc. He was thirty-eight, twelve years older than my sister. In my last life, I was completely fooled by that face. I was so happy for Jade that she married this man. Preston was the golden ticket, and we were just clinging to his coattails. Thanks to his generosity, our family’s life had dramatically improved. Preston was our family’s benefactor. I still thought that, right up until the second he started pouring drinks for me. First, he used the excuse that their house was close to my school, suggesting I move in with them. Jade, to maintain her gentle and filial image, even let Mom and Dad move in too. He asked which university I wanted to attend. I said a prestigious one. He looked displeased. “Then we won’t see each other often! Daisy’s growing up, meeting more people. What if she starts disliking her brother-in-law?” I didn’t quite understand back then. Right before my college entrance exams, he brought milk into my room, locking the door behind him. I was forced to drink, then pinned down and violated on the bed. The world spun. Everything receded, then stopped. The first thing I did when I woke up was crawl out to tell Mom and Dad that Preston had assaulted me. They looked surprised for a moment, then shifted uncomfortably. “Why do you smell so strongly of alcohol?” “You little brat, getting into trouble and drinking! And talking nonsense!” Preston knelt before Jade, crying, claiming I had seduced him, and he just couldn’t resist. I screamed that it wasn’t true, lunging at him, wanting to take him down with me. I was slapped. Jade, Dad, and Mom looked at me with alarm. They firmly declared that I had seduced Preston. Because they hadn’t heard any struggles. After that incident, Preston grew even more brazen. Every night, he’d barge into my room like a demon. During the exams, I picked up the paper, but I couldn’t make out a single word. My mind was filled with those filthy images. I submitted a blank test. Walking out of the exam hall, I felt my life was ruined. The boy I liked, Liam, confessed to me, but I didn’t have the courage to look him in the eye. I felt abandoned by the whole world. Preston smirked triumphantly, “Perfect. You’ll be my little bird in a gilded cage.” I slapped him, then used all my strength to bite off his ear. He beat me half to death. Blood gushed from my head as I lay on the floor, my eyes wide and staring. When I died, Jade breathed a sigh of relief. As she put me into a transparent bag, there was a smile in her eyes. Mom wiped away the blood, grumbling about how much there was, only showing annoyance. It had been a long time since she’d done any housework. Dad dug a huge hole in the garden and threw me in. My vision was swimming in red, and my hand feebly twitched. Dad, I was still alive! He saw it. He must have seen it. He pulled the bag closed with a blank expression, kicked me into the hole, and quickly began to bury me. The family I once believed in were all devils who had killed me. Reborn into this life, I swear you’ll pay back double.

Preston slipped me an envelope of money. “Girls need to doll themselves up, buy pretty clothes.” I glanced at my faded, washed-out clothes. He’d already tucked the envelope into my pocket. His hand lingered on my shoulder, slid down my back to my waist, then naturally pulled away. It was his habitual touch. I looked up. He was staring at me, his gaze crude and open. Before I could dwell on it, Mom pulled me away to join the bride for dinner. She held Jade’s hand and mine, praising Jade and belittling me. “Your sister is the one supporting this family. You need to be filial to her in the future.” Jade was beautiful and charming, a real smooth talker, always knowing how to please Mom and Dad. After she started dating a rich guy, she wore gold and silver, constantly buying things for Mom and Dad, making them love her even more. Jade paid for my tuition. Everything about me, she meticulously noted down. “Daisy, you’ll have to pay me back when you grow up, okay?” Everything we ate and used came from Jade’s money. Where did Jade’s money come from? I tore off a chicken leg and bit into it hungrily. Dad, completely drunk, slurred, “Look how successful your sister is! You can’t do worse than her, hear me?” He rapped me on the head. “I hate it when people hit my head.” I stared straight at him, momentarily forgetting to breathe. “Still talking back.” He hit me harder. It was time to go back to school. I’d specifically taken the day off to come for the wedding. Mom stopped me outside. I shrewdly handed her the envelope of money. “You’re not allowed to take money from your brother-in-law in the future, understand? It makes our family look bad.” I nodded. The envelope had a thousand in it, but I’d already taken eight hundred. “Where are you going?” “To school. The exams are coming up soon.” Mom just mumbled “Oh.” The family used to care deeply about my studies, but now they took a hands-off approach. Their focus had shifted to Jade. Or, to be precise, to Preston. There were 73 days left until the exams. I touched the thick stack of test papers, my heart burning. Ms. Albright, our homeroom teacher, with her neat short hair, lectured passionately from the podium. Liam, my crush, was hunched over, taking notes, his bangs almost covering his eyes. I really wanted to brush them back. He looked up, and I quickly averted my gaze, my face burning involuntarily. My heart beat strongly, a feeling like I’d escaped death. But I knew the real danger hadn’t arrived yet.

A few scruffy guys with bleached hair often stood by the school gate, smoking and checking out the passing girls. As I walked past, one of them whistled. I stopped and glared at them. They actually looked away. “Damn it, what are you staring at? Never seen handsome guys before?” I crunched on a candy, my mouth as sweet as honey. “Hey, guys, could you do me a favor?” In a few days, a heavy evening rain would fall, and Preston would “accidentally” drive by and offer me a ride home. Using that opportunity to make me stay at their house. I wouldn’t disrupt the timeline. The unknown butterfly effect was too scary. My goal was to take control. That day arrived quickly. I stood at the school gate, remembering how I’d waited five minutes in the last life. The rain grew heavier, and I, worried about missing the last bus, had flown out, clutching my backpack. My clothes were quickly soaked. Preston poked his head out of his car window. “Daisy, your brother-in-law is here to pick you up. Hurry, get in.” I pretended to be grateful and started to run towards him, but one of the thugs grabbed me. He ripped my clothes, slapped my face. “Help! Mmph…” The thug stared, dumbfounded. “Sis, you’re a savage.” “Say some curse words, will you? And give a sinister laugh,” I whispered, coaching him. Preston approached with a stick. Seeing only one thug, he relaxed a bit. “Get lost, before I call the cops.” I coughed a few times, and the other thugs emerged from the shadows. I leaned close to the thug, whispering, “Beat that man senseless.” A kick landed in my stomach. I collapsed onto the ground, my eyes fixed on Preston. “Preston, save me!” He stood at the intersection, hesitant to move. I broke free from the thugs, lunged at Preston, pinning him tightly. Then I signaled the thugs with my eyes. The beating lasted about ten minutes. The two guys on lookout at the alley entrance barked like dogs – someone was coming. The thugs fled, and I clutched my ripped clothes. “Preston, please don’t tell the family the truth. Just say I fell. I don’t want them to worry. “All I want right now is to study hard.” Preston looked outwardly unharmed, but I’d specifically told them to aim for the fleshy parts. I got into the car. Preston suddenly glanced at me. “Daisy, how did you get mixed up with them?” I shook my head, crying into my clothes the whole way. But halfway there, my legs started trembling uncontrollably. This wasn’t the route home. “Preston, where are we going?” “Central Road is jammed. I took a detour.” “Oh. …Preston, thank you for tonight.” Preston gave me another look and pulled over. Outside, it was pitch black, only the car’s headlights cut through the darkness. It was a deserted village. “Daisy.” “Hmm.” I closed my eyes, feigning a yawn. The silence was deathly. In the dim light, I knew Preston’s eyes were glued to me. I dared not look at him. My teeth bit hard into my lip. The windows were tightly closed, the air thick with a sickening smell. Preston lit a cigarette, took a few drags, then suddenly leaned closer to me. His pale face was expressionless. “Did you… did you also get reborn?” “Preston, what are you talking about?” I frowned. “Reborn?” “Did you get reborn, Preston? Then why didn’t you remind me to bring an umbrella today?” I pouted, feigning annoyance. Preston’s eyes shifted, the flesh on his face relaxing. “Just kidding.” He pulled a bottle of soda from somewhere. “Thirsty?” I took a sip. He watched me, pondering something. I couldn’t let him suspect me, so I took another big gulp. The car suddenly lurched. I seized the opportunity and spat out the drink. The car window was hammered loudly. “Hey, buddy, you picked a real spot to park your car.” It was a taxi driver. Preston got out, wanting to let it go, but the driver wouldn’t. “What if you go back on your word later and try to extort me?” I looked back. There was someone in the taxi. I got out, wanting to get a closer look, but no one was there. The driver sat by the side, smoking, giving us a meaningful look. “Some people, hmph. “Little girl, stay away from guys like him.” Preston pointed at him. “What do you mean?” “You’re so scared of calling the cops. Got other crimes on your conscience, do you?” “Spreading rumors is illegal!” I ran over and handed the driver a bottle of water. Preston’s car had two compartments. I took a bottle from the left one. Just as the driver was about to drink, Preston snatched it back. The water was indeed tainted. If it hadn’t been for that car accident… I shot the driver a grateful look. I said apologetically, “Preston, I still have homework to do, and I have early morning class tomorrow.” Preston, back to his “good brother-in-law” facade, called a taxi. The April air already held a hint of warmth, but as it brushed against me, I hugged myself, shivering. I replayed Preston’s actions and glances in my mind. I was certain. Preston had also been reborn. But rebirth was always predicated on death. How had Preston died? I stayed in the room on the far right of the second floor, right next to Jade and Preston’s bedroom. The walls were an elegant white, and in the center hung a happy family portrait.

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My ex-boyfriend, Julian Blackwood, sweet-talked me into taking nude photos. He promised they were just for him to cherish. I was a little worried, but also secretly thrilled I’d finally ‘won over’ Julian. Until one day, Chloe, a scholarship student, and I were competing for first place. Julian said, ” let her win.” “You don’t want those photos plastered all over the internet, do you?” I froze, nodding numbly. Seven days later, Chloe won first place as planned. Julian deleted all the photos. A huge weight lifted from my chest, and I boarded a plane out of the country. All those years, I’d consider them just wasted. Julian’s words were casual, almost dismissive. “You agree, and all the photos are deleted.” It was the peak of summer, unbearably hot. Yet, a wave of icy dread washed over me, like a punch to the gut. I opened my mouth, my voice trembling. “But you promised me…” Julian cut me off. “Yes, I promised only I would see them.” His gaze was unwavering, his tone low and deliberate. “I won’t break my word.” “Just let Chloe win first place.” I argued stubbornly, my words fragmented. “The singing competition… it’s supposed to be about talent.” “I… won’t give it up.” Julian seemed to have expected my resistance. He pulled my chair closer, encircling me in his arms. Then, he took out his phone. He took my hand and pressed it to unlock his private album. Explicit images flashed across the screen. Julian chuckled softly. “Whisper, your body is truly perfect.” His lips brushed my ear. “This one’s my favorite. You’re all flushed, mouth slightly open, looking at the camera.” “Like a plaything used up and tossed aside…” My fingertips trembled, a sob catching in my throat. “Don’t look.” Julian paused, switching off the screen. His thumb was warm as he wiped a tear from the corner of my eye. “Good girl, don’t be scared. Do you agree?” My fingers unconsciously tightened, my mind a blank. “Okay.” Julian’s eyes curved into a satisfied smile as he stood up. He smoothed my disheveled hair, speaking softly as if nothing had happened. “There’s a class gathering tonight. I won’t be coming home with you.” “I’ll have the driver take you.”

The air conditioning in the vocal classroom was blasting. I pulled my jacket tighter, curling up in the chair. So cold, so incredibly cold. I covered my mouth, stifling my sobs. Julian was the person I trusted most. When I was seven, my parents brought me from our small, rundown house in the countryside to a glittering mansion in the city. But I couldn’t fit in. I was scrawny, small, and always felt out of place. I was constantly bullied. I’d just hide and cry. I thought if I didn’t fight back, they’d leave me alone. Until that day, a group of boys tried to pull down my pants. I cried out, grabbing a dead tree branch. “Don’t… don’t come closer!” They didn’t stop, only grew bolder. That’s when Julian appeared. He brandished a brick, chasing them all away. Then, he offered me his hand. “Whisper, I’ll take you home.” But my legs were like jelly; I couldn’t stand. Julian frowned, a sour look on his face. But he still crouched down. “Get on.” I hesitated for a moment, then climbed onto his back. He carried me, walking with a steady, determined pace. After that, I always shyly followed Julian. For eleven years. Until Freshman Orientation Week ended in college. I gathered all my courage and confessed my feelings. Perhaps Julian’s heart softened. He looked at me with a smile, a regal nod of his head. So, when Julian suggested taking photos. I fought back my fear, asking softly, “Will… will others see them?” Julian held up the camera, gently reassuring me. “No, I’ll keep them treasured.” I hesitated for a moment, then slipped off my nightgown. Posing again and again. But now, that once-cherished intimacy had turned into a blade, stabbing me. I had trusted Julian so much. I finally couldn’t hold it in anymore, bursting into loud sobs. I don’t know how long passed, until no more tears would fall. Julian sent a SnapChat message. He was as thoughtful as ever, reminding me carefully, “You cried today, your throat will be sore.” “Remember to drink honey water when you get back.” I clutched my phone, stumbling home in a daze. On the way, I almost crashed into a big truck. My whole body felt numb, and I tremblingly entered my room’s password. The living room was pitch black. I didn’t turn on the lights, just sat on the sofa, hugging my knees. The clock ticked, hour after hour. The SnapChat notification sound rang out. I mechanically opened it. My best friend, Skylar, her voice serious, “Whisper, tell me the truth.” “Did Julian… take nude photos of you?”

Shame and a suffocating dread washed over me all at once. I frantically turned off the screen. I had promised… The screen lit up again. It was a video from Skylar. My hands trembling, I tapped to play it. In a dimly lit private lounge. Julian was holding a cigarette, his voice lazy. “Don’t worry, first place in the singing competition will definitely be yours.” Chloe, the scholarship student, sat beside him. They were incredibly close. Chloe forced a strained smile. “Don’t joke, Whisper is so pretty and her family is rich, I can’t possibly beat her.” Julian stared at her, lost in thought for a long moment. As if completely captivated. After a while, he spoke faintly. “She wouldn’t dare.” Chloe grabbed his hand, blinking. “Why not?” Julian fell silent. Chloe wasn’t in a hurry. She just reached out to touch a glass of wine on the table. The ambient lights flickered suggestively. Julian sighed, catching her hand. “You’re on your period, good girl, no drinking.” Chloe blinked, gazing steadily at him. Julian crumbled instantly. He squeezed Chloe’s cheek, a helpless smile on his face. “I have nude photos of her.” “Is that enough, my little queen?” The video ended. My heart felt like a gaping hole. Filled with sulfur by Julian’s own hands. Burning with excruciating pain. Skylar’s voice message continued. “Whisper, did you and Julian have a fight?” “How could he…” “And who’s that girl next to him?” “Did he… did he really take nude photos of you?” My throat felt like it was sealed with cement. I wanted to tell Skylar not to worry. But when I opened my mouth, no sound came out. I typed instead. “No, he was just joking.” “Are you still working? Go home early.” My head throbbed, and I collapsed onto the sofa. Chloe… Chloe… I closed my eyes, letting the tears fall freely. During Freshman Orientation Week, Chloe was the freshman representative. She wore a neat ponytail, speaking at the podium. Her voice was strong and clear, her demeanor poised and confident. At that time, I was suffering from heatstroke. Weakly leaning against Julian’s chest. He fanned me, chuckling. “Look at her, full of energy.” “You’re like a sick kitten.” “How will you ever survive without me?” My head was spinning, and I glanced at Chloe. “Julian, I want a popsicle.” Julian poked my forehead, a smirk on his face. “No, you’ll get a stomach ache.” I murmured, burying my head in his neck. Pushing Chloe from my mind. But it turned out Chloe was also a music student. She was cheerful and outgoing, full of passion. As if she had endless energy. And she got along with everyone in the class. Julian would come to pick me up after class, teasing, “I wish you had that much vitality.” At first, I didn’t think much of it. But later, Julian started mentioning her more and more often. The honey water he specifically brought for me. He’d also conveniently give a portion to her. I got angry, questioning him, “Why are you so good to her?” Julian crossed his long legs, rubbing his temples. “Whisper, it’s tough for a scholarship student to pursue music.” “She’s having a hard time, she just pretends to be happy.” “It’s just honey water, what’s the big deal?” But gradually, it wasn’t just honey water. Desserts, snacks, afternoon tea… Julian and I argued more and more. He always said Chloe was pitiful. And that I should be considerate towards her. Until today. Julian, for her sake, threw caution to the wind. My humiliation, my privacy. All became his bargaining chips to win Chloe’s favor. I stared at a solitary star outside the window. I didn’t understand what I had done wrong. Why Julian didn’t want me anymore… I bit my wrist, my mouth filling with a salty, metallic taste. Until the coppery tang of blood emerged. I wearily released my bite. It hurt, so much. I didn’t want to experience this anymore. Julian was right. I was timid and weak. Whenever something happened, I always wanted to retreat into my shell. But I didn’t want to be sad anymore. I opened my phone and booked a flight out of the country for seven days later.

I lay in bed. My temples throbbed relentlessly. But I couldn’t sleep. I took out my phone, searching repeatedly. “What to do if your boyfriend takes nude photos?” “Will my boyfriend send out my photos?” “Intimate photos leaked by boyfriend.” … I read about similar experiences. My heart ached, making it hard to breathe. I pulled the blanket tighter, my fingers stiff as I clicked, “How to save yourself if intimate photos are spread?” The guides were all well-written. Tell family, friends, seek help… Light and airy. It looked so simple. I mentally rehearsed it again and again. But none of it would work for Julian. He wasn’t afraid of anything. And he could handle anything. Tears soaked my pillow. Until I couldn’t hold on any longer and passed out. My sleep was restless. In a hazy dream, I heard the click of a camera.

I jolted awake, clutching my blanket. The room was dim. Only the red light of a camera flashed. Julian was hidden in the shadows. A smile played on his lips, his eyes flushed with a hint of intoxication. “So beautiful.” I jumped out of bed, reaching out to hide. But Julian easily pulled me into his arms. The scent of perfume mixed with smoke rushed into my nostrils. I coughed uncontrollably. Julian tightened his hold, his voice deep. “Don’t move.” “I missed you so much.” My nerves were stretched taut, like a string being plucked repeatedly. I grabbed his sleeve, my voice hoarse. “Delete… them.” Julian pressed me onto his lap. “What’s wrong with your throat?” “Didn’t you drink honey water last night?” “The driver said he couldn’t pick you up, are you still angry?” My stomach churned, a wave of nausea rising. I silently dug my nails into my palms. Struggling to get off his lap. Julian sighed, seemingly helpless. “I saw your phone.” My muddled thoughts briefly cleared. My whole body trembled. My flight ticket… Julian gently patted my back. “Did your friend tell on me?” “Yes, I took Chloe to the class gathering last night.” “It was her birthday, and she had no one to celebrate with. It was just a convenience.” “Whisper, don’t overthink it.” I lost all strength, my voice barely a whisper. “Julian, please delete the photos you just took, okay?” “I don’t like it. I don’t want to take them.” Julian froze. His voice grew cold, laced with anger. “Still making a fuss?” “I knew I shouldn’t have told you.” “How many times have I told you? I just feel sorry for Chloe.” “Niamh Carter, I won’t tolerate you every time.” Julian’s lips moved. Accusations tumbled out, one after another. Like heavy blows raining down on me. Leaving no room for escape. I pushed him away, rushing to the bathroom. My throat burned. I bent over in agony. But I hadn’t eaten all day. Only bitter bile came up. Behind me, hurried footsteps sounded. Julian scooped me up in his arms. His lips were tightly pressed, his expression anxious. “Didn’t you eat properly again?” “I’ll take you to the hospital.” I clutched his collar, sobbing. “No, don’t. Please.” “Julian, please delete the photos, okay?” He looked down, staring at my swollen eyes. A flicker of struggle crossed his face. But the next moment. Julian’s phone, left on the table, rang. He glanced at it, and instantly snapped back to reality. He placed me on the bed, handing me a camera. “I’ll call the family doctor over.” “You rest well.” “You can delete whatever you want from *this* camera.” “As for the nude photos…” Julian paused, tucking the blanket around me. “I’ll delete them for you after the competition ends in seven days.” He stood up, answering the call. His voice was incredibly gentle. “What’s wrong?” “Stay put, I’m coming to you.” The bedroom door was slammed shut. Faintly. I heard Chloe’s cries. The camera felt heavy. A dead weight in my hand. On the screen were photos of me sleeping just now.

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I was in a car accident and ended up in the hospital. Suddenly, I had an urge to tease my boyfriend. “Who are you?” I asked, watching Lucas’s face freeze. I was about to laugh when Lucas suddenly pointed to his best friend Quinn and said, “I’m your boyfriend’s friend. He’s your boyfriend, Quinn.” My expression stiffened. But Quinn stepped forward and said, “That’s right, I’m your boyfriend.” I forced a smile and said, “Then take me home.” Quinn took me back to his place. He said I’d always lived there. Looking around at a place devoid of any traces of my life, I nodded along, playing blind just like him. I slept in his bed for a while, then wanted to get some water. As I was about to leave the room, I overheard a conversation from the living room. “Quinn, do me a solid and pretend to be Lily’s boyfriend for a while.” “Aren’t you worried she might suddenly regain her memory?” “If she does and gets angry, I’ll just smooth things over. She loves me so much, she wouldn’t really leave me anyway. It’s just that things have gotten a bit stale between us lately. This is a good chance to take a breather and have some fun on the side.” “Looks like you and Charlotte have really hit it off, huh? You just want to play around with her for a bit?” “You know me too well. But of course I love Lily more. While Lily’s with you, don’t you dare touch her. Though among my bros, I trust you the most. You seem to really dislike Lily anyway.” I stepped back barefoot, then made some noise at the door before walking towards the living room. Quinn quickly hung up and came over when he heard the sound. “The floor’s cold. Why aren’t you wearing slippers?” Quinn hurried over and scooped me up, placing me on the sofa. “I’m thirsty,” I said, unsure where to find water. “I’ll get it for you.” Quinn went to the water dispenser and poured me a glass. He sat beside me and asked, “Anywhere else feeling uncomfortable?” I shook my head after drinking the water. He reached out to smooth my messy hair, leaning in to kiss my forehead. I froze, remembering I’d just heard Lucas tell him not to touch me. I also thought Quinn disliked me. But now… When he kissed my lips, I turned away. He casually stroked my face, “You don’t remember. We’ll take it slow, let you get used to me again.” It seemed this Quinn guy was deceiving his own friend too.

When Quinn brought me to the private room, it was already lively inside. A group of rich heirs fell silent when they saw me arrive, looking towards Lucas in unison. “Oh, Lily’s here! Do you remember me? I’m Charlotte, your college roommate!” the girl sitting next to Lucas greeted me. Quinn led me to sit down. I looked at her and shook my head, “I’m sorry.” “That’s alright, we can all get to know each other again,” Charlotte said, intimately leaning on Lucas’s shoulder. This former college roommate turned friend seemed to be flaunting her closeness to Lucas now that she thought I had amnesia, barely concealing her smugness. Lucas also appeared to relish being intimate with another woman in front of me, as if getting a special thrill from it. “How nice that both you best friends’ boyfriends are in this circle!” “You can all hang out together often, memory loss or not.” The other friends all understood the situation but tacitly agreed not to say anything, seemingly taking perverse pleasure in watching an oblivious person being publicly betrayed. They continued playing games. Lucas and Charlotte were eating the same cookie, their mouths getting closer with each bite. “Kiss! Kiss!” everyone started chanting. In the charged atmosphere, Lucas and Charlotte shared a deep kiss. Afterwards, Charlotte shyly nestled in Lucas’s arms, sneaking a smug glance at me. Lucas held Charlotte contentedly. Then I lost a game and had to take a penalty – kissing someone for 30 seconds. Everyone fell silent, curious who I would choose. Surely I wouldn’t instinctively pick Lucas? Lucas seemed nervous, avoiding eye contact. He apparently didn’t want me to have an instinctive reaction so soon. Quinn beside me also tensed up. I smiled and said, “Of course I’ll pick my boyfriend.”

I said this as I turned to Quinn, “Shall we?” I clearly felt Quinn relax. He looked at me steadily and leaned in. I took the initiative to wrap my arms around his neck and kissed him. “Woah,” came a chorus of surprised sounds. These people may have seen Lucas embrace other women and kiss them, but they certainly never expected to see me do this with another man. So they let out surprised “woahs”, but then suddenly fell silent. Quinn seemed to kiss without restraint, pursuing aggressively. His tongue swept through my mouth, chasing and entangling with mine. His arm around my waist tightened, as if wanting to swallow me whole. After 30 seconds, I pulled away to see Lucas’s face dark with anger. That’s why everyone had suddenly gone quiet. How laughable. Quinn gently wiped away a bit of moisture at the corner of my mouth. “What’s wrong with everyone? Didn’t I just take my penalty?” I asked, feigning confusion at the strange atmosphere. “Lily may have amnesia but she’s certainly not shy with her boyfriend,” Charlotte’s words dripped with sarcasm at my apparent stupidity. Lucas looked even more displeased. I went to the restroom outside, but overheard voices coming from the stairwell. “Quinn, I told you not to touch her. That was out of line just now.” Lucas’s voice was cold. “It was just a game. She has amnesia – did you expect her to choose you, who has a woman by his side? That wouldn’t make sense. I’m the boyfriend you personally chose for her now.” Quinn’s tone was light. Lucas fell silent, then said, “Fine, just be careful. I don’t believe you’d actually be into Lily and sleep with her, but try to avoid intimate contact if you can. It must be hard for you to tolerate too, right? I feel bad putting you in this position.” “Hmph, you know me well,” Quinn replied.

Back at Quinn’s villa. He grabbed my arm as I was about to enter my room. Without a word, he lowered his head and kissed me. “Mmph-” I tried to turn away, but he held me firmly. He pressed me against him forcefully, gripping my chin as he kissed me aggressively, not allowing any rejection. It was so intense I could barely breathe. After a long while, he finally pulled back and stroked my face, saying softly, “We made progress today, didn’t we? We can gradually get more familiar.” I looked up at him, dazed. His actions seemed completely contrary to what his friend had said. I didn’t understand him. Lucas and I came from very different backgrounds. He had worked hard to get me to accept him step by step. Later, I met some of his friends, a group of rich heirs, especially Quinn. It was common knowledge in their circle that Quinn disliked me and looked down on me. He always had a somewhat contemptuous attitude towards my relationship with Lucas. I used to avoid him whenever possible. But after I “lost my memory” and Lucas forcibly paired me up with him as a couple. He kept taking advantage to do things like this. Was it to get revenge on Lucas for pairing us up? … My job as a designer was quite flexible, so I often worked from home. Quinn knocked and came in, “You’ve been working hard. There are fireworks tonight, let’s go watch.” We rushed to the lakeside where the fireworks were being set off. Lucas and Charlotte were standing in the best spot, watching the grand fireworks display. Charlotte leaned against Lucas, suddenly jumping up happily to plant a kiss on his cheek, looking so adorable. Lucas smiled at her, tapping her nose playfully. He turned and saw us. Lucas stiffened for a moment when he saw me, then quickly pretended nothing had happened. Charlotte also noticed us, “Oh, you guys are here!” “Lily, perfect timing! Can you take some photos of me and Lucas?” Charlotte called out, handing me her phone. Lucas’s expression faltered as he glanced at me. “I’m so happy today. Lucas set off these fireworks just for me. I want to capture this moment forever,” Charlotte said, gazing at Lucas lovingly as she went to his side. Lucas’s expression softened as he put his arm around her. My hand holding Charlotte’s phone froze. So Lucas had organized this grand fireworks show for Charlotte.

I looked through the viewfinder at their embracing figures. Lucas held Charlotte tenderly, while she leaned against his chest with a blissful, contented smile. The magnificent fireworks in the background created such a romantic scene. I silently took their photos. Lucas had once set off fireworks across the entire lake for my birthday too. Charlotte had volunteered to take photos for us then. I was probably just as happy and blissful as Charlotte was now. Back then, Charlotte had said wistfully, “I’m so envious of you two. I hope I’ll find someone who treats me that well someday.” I had reassured her that she would. Now, it seemed she really had. Quinn took the phone from my hand, “That’s enough. You’re not here just to be their personal photographer.” He tossed the phone back. Lucas caught it and handed it to Charlotte. … After the fireworks show, Charlotte and I went to the restroom. It was too crowded, so I decided not to go after all. But on the way back, I overheard the two men waiting for us talking again. “You and Charlotte seem to be having a great time. When’s the last time you and Lily were this happy?” Quinn was saying. “It’s true, being with Charlotte lately feels like rediscovering what I once had with Lily. Charlotte is even sweeter and more attentive than Lily. She makes me feel comfortable and happy,” Lucas replied. “Then why not just let things be? Charlotte does seem more your type. Lily can be quite stubborn sometimes, causing you a lot of frustration, right?” Quinn said. “Quinn, Lily and I have years of history. It’s not something I can just end on a whim.” “Charlotte says she’s not expecting anything long-term. She’d be content just enjoying our time together while it lasts. Such a silly girl,” Lucas sighed. “Hmph.”

Back at the villa, Quinn suddenly embraced me and kissed me. Then he pulled back slightly to look at me seriously, “Lily, you know what? You’re the best version of yourself. You don’t need to compare yourself to anyone.” I stared at him in shock. It was as if he was responding to Lucas comparing me to Charlotte. How… how did he understand me so well? He knew all my little habits that Lucas had forgotten, my favorite candies, favorite foods, favorite movies… He was pushing things further than before. I didn’t object. He looked at me in surprise, then swept me up in his arms and carried me into his room. Lucas had been my only man. When he first pursued me, I was full of distrust. But his sincerity and determination, his attitude towards my grandmother and the help he gave her in private, moved me. Later, when his parents disapproved and cut off his finances, I thought that would be when he realized our differences. But he didn’t give in. Instead, he worked part-time jobs with me while we attended classes. In the end, his parents relented out of concern for him. That’s when I truly started a relationship with him. When my only grandmother passed away, he held me close and said I still had him. He said he would always be by my side. A relationship that was once so deep had now completely changed. If that’s how it is, then I’ll learn to love a new man.

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I was stuck at the airport for a whole day because of a torrential downpour. My fiancé completely ignored my pleas for help, instead driving halfway across the city just to bring my stepsister breakfast. When I voiced my frustration, his response was pure blame. “Chloe’s always been delicate; can’t you be a little understanding?” “I’m still going to marry you, aren’t I? When did you become so immature?” His words didn’t ignite anger in me, but a cold laugh. Liam Evans genuinely believed marrying him was some grand favor he was bestowing upon me. But I had never loved him. The moment I returned home, I was met with a massive downpour. I called everyone I could think of, begging for a ride, but no one could come. My parents and Liam both said they were busy preparing for a party and couldn’t leave. This particular party was supposed to be a welcome-home celebration for me, and also the formal announcement of the arranged marriage between the Davis and Evans families. Given its supposed importance, I swallowed my frustration. Once the rain finally stopped, I hailed a cab home, only to be stopped at my own front door by a staff member. “Please show your invitation, otherwise, I can’t let you in.” Rainwater dripped from my hair, and I stood there, drenched and disheveled, in front of my own mansion. I patiently explained, “I’m Stella Davis, the eldest daughter of this family. This party is meant for me.” The staff member eyed me up and down. “You’re probably just trying to crash and freeload, aren’t you? Our daughter, Chloe, is inside with Mr. and Mrs. Davis. This party is clearly for her!” “And you dare to impersonate our young mistress? I won’t be so polite then!” The accumulated frustration and anger from the entire journey finally exploded. I took a step forward, my voice as cold as ice. “You, a mere employee, daring to speak to me with such disrespect? And threatening to lay hands on me?” “You’re fired, effective immediately. Pack your things and leave the Davis estate!” Just then, a soft voice drifted from inside the house. “Sister, you’re finally back? Please don’t be angry.” My stepsister, Chloe Davis, walked up to me, already acting like the lady of the house. “He’s new staff; he’s only been here a few days, so it’s understandable he doesn’t recognize you. Please don’t blame him.” I looked at Chloe’s feigned innocent face, my stomach churning. Chloe was adopted by my parents when she was young. Because I had always pursued an elite education and spent years away from my parents, Chloe had become their closest child. But I’d only been gone for a few years. Had everyone forgotten who the real Davis daughter was? I didn’t give Chloe a pleasant look. “Even if he didn’t recognize me, he should at least know who this party is for, shouldn’t he?” Chloe lowered her head, her voice laced with a sniffle. “Sister, it’s all my fault… I recently won an award in a design competition and wanted to celebrate. I didn’t realize it would clash with your party. You can blame me.” It was then that I understood. This wasn’t my welcome-home party at all; it was Chloe’s victory celebration. Chloe’s eyes welled with tears as she pleaded, “Sister, please forgive him this once. His family isn’t well-off, and this job is very important to him. If he loses his job because of me, I’ll feel guilty forever.” With her saying that, I was instantly cast as the heartless villain, deliberately making trouble for the staff. Guests had already noticed the commotion at the door and began gathering, whispering amongst themselves. “Chloe is such a kind girl, always thinking of others, even at her own party.” “I know, unlike some people, who come back and immediately start acting like a demanding heiress, throwing tantrums at the staff.” The whispers weren’t loud, but every word reached my ears clearly. A familiar figure emerged from the crowd—Liam Evans. Seeing him, a flicker of inexplicable hope rose within me. He would stand by me, unconditionally, just like he always used to. But in the next second, Liam walked straight to Chloe, gently wrapping his arm around her shoulders. “Chloe, your sister might just be in a bad mood after her long trip. Don’t mind her.” Then, he finally looked at me. “Stella, try not to be so impulsive. Today’s a happy occasion; don’t let a small matter ruin it.” His words sounded like he was trying to smooth things over, but every single one of them favored Chloe. I looked at him, feeling a sudden profound distance.

I walked into the bustling ballroom, but the celebration felt completely irrelevant to me. Liam stayed by Chloe’s side the entire time, his eyes glued to her. They occasionally exchanged smiles, their intimacy natural and easy. Watching them, I couldn’t help but remember my first encounter with Liam. Back then, the Evans family’s financial status was far inferior to the Davis family’s. Liam’s late father had done a great favor for my father, and to repay that debt, my dad had promised my hand in marriage when we were children. Young Liam had been fiercely devoted to me. Whatever I wanted, he’d try his best to get it, and he was always the first to stand up and protect me. Back then, he only had eyes for me. While I wouldn’t say I was deeply in love with him, I didn’t dislike him either. I even once thought I might spend my life with him, settling down, getting married, having children, and living out my days. But now, it was clear that his eyes held no place for me. Only Chloe. Suddenly, the ballroom grew a little quieter. Liam pulled out an exquisite gift box and presented it to Chloe. It was a dazzling sapphire necklace, sparkling brilliantly under the lights. The moment I saw it, I recognized it instantly—a limited-edition piece I had fallen in love with years ago. I had mentioned it to Liam several times, and he’d made a note of it, but it wasn’t something money alone could buy, so the idea eventually faded. I never thought he’d actually found it. But he was giving it to Chloe. “Chloe, this is my gift to you. Do you like it?” Liam took the necklace and carefully fastened it around Chloe’s neck. Chloe blushed, lowering her head. “Liam, it’s too extravagant. I can’t accept it…” “Please take it. I chose it especially for you. Only you deserve it.” Liam’s gaze was filled with a doting tenderness that had once been exclusively mine. Guests around them cast envious glances. I watched the scene quietly, feeling no anger, no sadness, just a hollow numbness settled in my chest. I slipped out of the ballroom, unnoticed. The evening breeze carried a hint of coolness, brushing my face and clearing my head. Footsteps sounded behind me—Liam was following. Did he finally realize he’d crossed a line, here to apologize? I stopped, turned around, and waited for him to speak. “Stella, come back inside with me. Don’t let the guests gossip. If word gets out that the Davis sisters are feuding, it won’t look good for Chloe’s reputation.” So he wasn’t chasing after *me*. He was just worried about how I might affect Chloe. Before I could say anything, Liam pulled a similar-looking necklace from his pocket. “Alright, stop sulking. I know you’re upset about the necklace I gave Chloe. Here, this is for you.” My eyes were sharp; I instantly recognized it as a fake. “I bought a bunch of replicas trying to find the real one. This one isn’t genuine, but it looks close enough. You can wear this one for now; I’ll tell everyone it’s real so you don’t lose face. Later, I’ll find you something better, okay?” So, in his eyes, all I cared about was appearances, and a cheap fake could just shut me up. Before I could react, Chloe’s voice called out from the ballroom. Hearing her, Liam quickly shoved the box into my hand, muttering, “Go back inside, stop making a scene,” then rushed back to Chloe’s side. I looked down at the fake necklace in my hand, a strong wave of disgust washing over me. Without a second glance, I tossed it into a nearby trash can.

Liam had already left. I was about to head back to my room to rest when a tall, imposing figure walked up to me. “Ms. Davis, please accept this gift.” “You’ve got the wrong person, I’m not Chloe. The person you’re looking for is inside.” There were too many people fawning over Chloe; I instinctively assumed he was another one trying to curry favor. The man’s smile deepened at my words. “I haven’t made a mistake. I specifically came to see you today, Ms. Stella Davis.” “My name is Mason Thorne, heir to the Thorne Group.” The Thorne Group was a well-known, influential company in our circles. I understood his intentions. If my engagement with the Evans family fell through, the Thorne Group would undoubtedly want to seize the opportunity. In the end, he was just another person here for family interests, and I had no interest in people like that. Before I could speak, Mason continued, “While you’ve been abroad these past few years, Liam Evans and Chloe have been openly flirting.” My tone was flat. “Those things no longer matter to me.” Mason seemed a little surprised. “You don’t want to get back at Liam? Aren’t you resentful after how he treated you?” I couldn’t help but laugh, a hint of release in my voice. “Get back at him? He’s not even worth my attention.” True, I had once thought about spending a peaceful life with him. But now, he was nothing more than a betrayer. Someone like that didn’t even deserve my sadness. Mason nodded after hearing me speak. “Ms. Davis, frankly, I’ve been observing you for quite some time.” “And now, I admire you even more.” He presented the gift box to me again. “This gift has no ulterior motive; it’s simply something I personally want to give you. I hope you’ll accept it.” Looking into his sincere eyes, I hesitated for a moment, then finally accepted the gift box, softly saying, “Thank you.” After bidding Mason farewell, I didn’t return to the ballroom but went straight to my room on the second floor. Returning home a few days ago, getting around had been difficult. My old car had been given to Chloe by my parents, and I hadn’t bothered to reclaim it. The next morning, I went straight to a luxury car dealership downtown. The moment I walked into the showroom, my gaze was instantly drawn to a sleek, silver-gray sports car. Just as I was about to examine it more closely, a familiar voice came from behind me. “Stella Davis? What are you doing here?” Liam frowned, his tone clearly annoyed. Chloe, standing beside him, timidly hid behind him, looking startled. “Stella, I know we’re engaged, but you can’t just follow me around like this, can you? You’re so pushy; it’s suffocating.” I rolled my eyes. Such drama. Chloe whispered, “Liam, I saw this car yesterday and really liked it. I was planning to come and reserve it today.” Liam’s gaze at me grew colder. “Since Chloe already had her eye on this car, you should let her have it. You can just drive your old car. Anyway, once we’re married, you’ll be a housewife. Chloe and I are enough to run the Davis Corporation; you don’t need such a fancy car.” I was almost laughing at his sheer audacity. “Why should I let her have it?” “Why do you always have to cause trouble for your sister?” “It seems bullying her has become a habit for you. Do you think she’s easy to pick on, so you can just snatch whatever she wants?” It was clear Chloe had been badmouthing me to Liam for years. And that idiot, after knowing me for over a decade, was still so easily swayed by Chloe’s sweet talk.

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I used to be a shooting prodigy, just one shot away from a world championship. But my fiancé, Liam, personally snapped my fingers and handed the championship trophy to my stepsister, Chloe. “Chloe, you deserve this, no one shines brighter than you.” Everyone said they were a match made in heaven. No one knew that my pain was 100% connected to him. When he kissed Chloe, a strange tingle bloomed on my lips. When he hugged Chloe, a comfortable warmth spread through my body. And when he was with Chloe, an overwhelming pleasure threatened to rip me apart. I died in agony and extreme ecstasy. When I opened my eyes again, I was back on the day of the championship finals. This time, before taking that final shot, I aimed the gun at my own temple. “Liam, do you still want this championship?” “Bang—!” With a single gunshot, “10.9” flashed across the electronic screen. The crowd erupted! My stepsister, Chloe, had won the Shooting World Championship by a slim 0.1 point margin. She was the youngest champion in history, a genius everyone adored. And I, Stella, once the genius, now a broken mess, was relegated to her shadow by that same 0.1 point difference. Chloe excitedly tossed her rifle aside and flung herself into the arms of our coach – my fiancé, Liam. Under the spotlights, Liam lifted her high, running around the arena in celebration, his handsome face alight with unconcealed joy and pride. “Chloe, you did it! You’re the best!” Chloe wrapped her arms around his neck, her smile radiant and triumphant. “Liam, I told you I’d personally bring you this championship trophy.” They looked like a true power couple, soaking in everyone’s blessings. And I, discarded like trash, forgotten by the world, stood alone in the empty 선수区 (player’s area). My fingers throbbed with a searing pain. They were the fingers that had once pulled the trigger, scoring countless perfect 10.9s. A year ago, on a similar stage, my fingers had been broken by Liam himself. His eyes burning crimson, he systematically twisted each one of my hands – my livelihood – into grotesque shapes. “Stella, why do you always have to compete with Chloe? Do you have any idea how much she’s sacrificed for this competition?!” “She’s the truly gifted one, you don’t deserve to be her opponent!” From that day on, I could no longer hold a rifle steady. The agonizing pain made it impossible to concentrate; every time I aimed, my vision blurred. Making it to second place today was a miracle, the only way I got this far was by burning myself out completely. But no one cared about my injury, no one remembered my past glory. In Liam’s eyes, there was only his Chloe. Then, a strange tingle started to bloom through my body. It began on my lips. Like a faint electric current, itchy, then numb. Next, a warm sensation spread across my chest, as if I were being tightly embraced. I knew it was Liam kissing Chloe. They were hiding in a corner, out of reach of the cameras, shamelessly devouring each other, celebrating their dirty victory. I was a monster. Liam and I shared a bizarre link. My pain was his, one hundred percent. And in turn, I could feel every single one of his touches. From the day we started dating, every kiss, every embrace, gave me a double rush. I used to think it was a unique romance, a gift from the heavens. Until Chloe appeared. She followed Liam around, calling him “Liam” over and over, but her eyes held a disturbing glint whenever she looked at me. Liam started avoiding me, yet he’d always find excuses to touch Chloe during training. Every time they touched, I’d feel it, like a creepy voyeur. At first, it disgusted me, but eventually, I went numb. The worst was the night before I died. They’d won the championship and booked a room at the hotel to celebrate. And I was locked in the next room, forced to listen to the sounds through the wall, my own body reacting in sync. My fingers were screaming in pain, yet my body was convulsing with waves of pleasure. I died in that agonizing, ecstatic mess. Now, I was back. Back to where it all began. On the screen was Chloe’s 10.9, and in the corner, she and Liam were passionately kissing. I looked at them and smiled. Liam, Chloe, we’re playing a different game this time.

I was reborn, back in the finals, just one last shot left. The crowd was roaring, and the commentators were shouting. “And now, the competition has reached a fever pitch! Our two brilliant athletes, Stella and Chloe, will vie for the ultimate championship title!” “Currently, Chloe holds a slight lead. Can Stella withstand the pressure and deliver the ultimate kill shot?!” I raised my rifle, aiming at the bullseye. My hand was steady, my heart surprisingly calm. The old wound in my finger still ached, but being reborn was far more shocking. I knew this shot would be a 10.9, tying Chloe’s score. Then, in the tie-breaker, my hand would falter from the pain, and I’d lose to her, cementing her as the so-called shooting prodigy. I remembered every detail of my past life. I didn’t look at the bullseye. Instead, I glanced at the coach’s box. Liam stood there, his eyes fixed on Chloe. That gaze, tense and expectant, as if he were looking at some priceless treasure. As for me, his fiancée? I wasn’t even an afterthought. I could feel his heart pounding faster for Chloe. Bang! Chloe fired her shot. 10.9. The moment the score appeared, Liam practically jumped up, clenching his fists and shouting silently. I felt his sheer elation. That rush of joy was a hundred times stronger than when we got engaged and he slipped a ring on my finger. It was utterly ridiculous. My fiancé was absolutely wild for another woman. Everyone was watching me, waiting for my shot. Chloe even turned to look at me, her smile practically declaring her victory. Liam finally looked my way, his eyes like daggers. The message was clear: Stella, you better be smart about this. I smiled. I lowered my rifle. Everyone froze. I turned the barrel, pressing it against my own temple. The entire arena fell silent. The commentator’s voice caught in his throat: “St-Stella… what… what are you doing? Put the gun down!” Liam’s face instantly went ashen. He stared at me, his lips trembling, unable to utter a single word. I looked at him through the scope, that face I’d loved for ten years, now etched with pure terror. He was scared. Scared I’d pull the trigger. Because he knew that a gun to my temple was a gun to his. A bullet through my head would also take his life. “Liam,” I mouthed to him. “Do you still want this championship?”

“You’re insane! You’re a complete lunatic!” In the infirmary, Liam roared at me, veins pulsing visibly on his forehead. The bloodshot veins in his eyes were even more terrifying than his crimson gaze. My actions had caused the competition to be immediately halted. I was disqualified for “emotional instability.” The championship, naturally, fell to Chloe. But Liam wasn’t celebrating. He rushed over, gripping my wrist with a force that felt like he wanted to crush my bones. “Stella! Do you want to die that badly?! If you want to die, don’t drag me with you!” “Are you seriously throwing your life away just for a championship?” I calmly watched him rage. “You forced my hand, Liam.” He froze. I wrenched my hand free, looking at the angry red marks blooming on my wrist, and smiled. “A year ago, when you broke my fingers, did it ever occur to you that I was in agonizing pain?” A surge of sharp pain tore through our link. Liam’s face paled further, a fine sheen of cold sweat breaking out on his forehead. His hand twitched involuntarily. “I… I did it for Chloe, she couldn’t lose!” he still stubbornly insisted. “Besides… besides, I held back my strength considerably!” “Held back your strength?” I laughed even louder. “Do you know that because of your ‘restraint,’ my finger nerves suffered irreversible damage? The doctor said I’d never reach my peak performance again, not in this lifetime.” I raised my right hand; those fingers still ached on rainy days, keeping me awake at night. “Liam, you personally destroyed your own world champion. Are you satisfied now?” His lips trembled, unable to utter a single word. The infirmary door creaked open, and Chloe walked in, carrying a glass of water. “Liam, don’t be mad at Stella. She definitely didn’t mean it. Here, drink some water.” She offered the water to Liam, but her gaze, like a viper, coiled around me. It was full of venomous resentment and raw envy. Yes, she’d won the championship, but it was far from glorious. Everyone knew I had deliberately forfeited. Her genius aura was now tarnished with an unerasable stain. Liam didn’t take the water. Seeing Chloe now only reminded him of my madness on the arena floor. Chloe looked a little awkward, but she quickly recovered and turned to me. “Stella, I know you’re hurting. But that’s how competitions are, you win some, you lose some. You’re still young, you’ll have other chances.” Her voice was soft and gentle, playing the role of the sympathetic, caring little sister. If I hadn’t been reborn, I might have fallen for her act again. “Chances?” I let out a cold, sharp laugh. “Weren’t my chances already ruined by the two of you conspiring together?” Chloe’s face fell. “Stella, what do you mean? Liam and I are purely platonic, how can you falsely accuse me of something so awful?” “Purely platonic?” I stood up and walked over to Liam. He was a head taller than me; I had to tilt my head back to meet his gaze. To Chloe’s stunned expression, I reached out, hooked my arms around Liam’s neck, and then, I kissed him. Liam’s body instantly stiffened. He tried to push me away, but my lips and tongue were already invading his mouth. At the same time, I felt it – that complete, double shot of adrenaline, exclusively mine. It was strange. Liam’s eyes widened, filled with shock and confusion. But his body’s primal instinct, however, wouldn’t let him resist. As our lips tangled, I felt a strange, hot current erupt from my core, rapidly spreading through every limb and bone. It wasn’t just me. Liam’s breathing turned ragged. His body was burning hot. Chloe stood frozen, utterly stunned. She watched us kissing with such abandon, her eyes practically spat fire. She wanted to pull us apart, but she didn’t dare. After what felt like an eternity, I finally released Liam. Liam gasped for breath, an unnatural flush on his cheeks, his gaze hazy, as if he saw me, and yet someone else entirely. I turned to face Chloe, whose face was now a furious shade of green, and provocatively licked my lips. “See? That’s ‘purely platonic.’” “As for you two? What the hell do you two think you are?” With that, I didn’t look at them again and walked straight out of the infirmary. I knew my actions today had completely shattered Liam’s plans. The show had only just begun.

Back home, I locked myself in my room and began to calmly strategize my next move. Since fate had given me a second chance, I would not repeat my past mistakes. The championship, Liam – I wanted both. Oh wait, no, Liam could go to hell. That kind of scum wasn’t even worth my spit. What I wanted was to ruin his reputation, to leave him with nothing. My phone rang. It was Liam. I hung up immediately and blocked his number. He probably wanted to interrogate me, or warn me. Pointless. The current me had no desire to waste another word on him. Soon after, there was a knock on my door. It was Chloe. “Stella, are you there? Can I come in and talk to you?” Her voice sounded wronged, on the verge of tears. I opened the door. She stood there, red-eyed, like a bullied little rabbit. “Stella, I know you’ve misunderstood Liam and me. There’s really nothing going on between us.” “Please don’t be mad. If you hate me, I… I just won’t see him anymore.” As she spoke, tears streamed down her face, one by one, hitting my heart and splashing a cold surge of disgust. In my previous life, she used this same pitiful act to deceive everyone, including me. I stepped aside, letting her in. She sat on the edge of my bed, watching me cautiously. “Stella, are you… did you find something out?” I didn’t speak, just stared at her. My gaze made her uneasy; she clutched the hem of her clothes. “Stella, don’t look at me like that, you’re scaring me.” “Scared?” I finally spoke. “Were you scared when you were seducing my fiancé behind my back?” “Were you scared when you instigated him to break my fingers and destroy my career?” “Were you scared when you watched me die, took everything from me, and basked in glory that wasn’t yours?” With each sentence I uttered, Chloe’s face grew paler. By the end, all color drained from her face, and she trembled like a leaf in an autumn wind. “You… how do you know…” “I know much more than you can imagine.” I leaned closer, my voice low and menacing. “Chloe, I’m warning you, stay away from Liam.” “Otherwise, I won’t hesitate to let you experience the torment I suffered in my past life.” Fear bloomed in her eyes. She finally dropped the act, the fragility in her gaze replaced by venomous hatred. “Stella, who do you think you are? You’re just a nobody! A waste who can’t even hold a rifle steady!” “Liam loves me! He got sick of you ages ago! If it weren’t for…” She stopped abruptly mid-sentence. For what? Because of that damn link between Liam and me? The reason he never completely cut ties with me was that my pain would affect him. So, he needed Chloe to do all his dirty work on the outside while he hid behind her, playing the innocent victim. What a brilliant plan. “Get out.” I pointed to the door, my voice cold as ice. Chloe wanted to say more, but my terrifying gaze made her back down. She stumbled out of the room. I knew she would run straight to Liam to complain. That was fine. The bait was set, and the fish were starting to bite.

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Entering the Macabre Mother-in-Law and Daughter-in-Law Rules Nightmare, I struggle to survive. “Welcome to the Mother-in-Law and Daughter-in-Law Rules World. Please remember and abide by the following rules.” A mechanical voice coldly repeated the same few sentences in my ear. “To become the perfect daughter-in-law, you must strictly follow the daughter-in-law’s guidelines.” “Remember, no matter how outrageous your Mother-in-law’s demands, you must obey.” “Do not trust anyone who looks like your family. Do not eat anything they offer you. This will only kill you.” “Do not let anyone know you are a player. Danger! Danger!” I barely survived on instinct. But on the third day, in the early hours, my Mother-in-law appeared at my window, a fruit knife in her hand. “You’ve broken the rules ten times. Now, I announce your punishment: death.” Before I could even speak, the knife in Evelyn’s hand plunged into my body. I don’t know how long it was before I jolted awake again. Evelyn, standing before me, handed me a list of rules. It was all too familiar. I realized I was back. This time, I had to escape this twisted house.

The instant I understood my current situation, I wanted to get up and leave immediately. But my boyfriend, Leo, sitting beside me, gripped my hand like a vise. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t break free. The three people opposite us noticed my odd behavior. Evelyn’s eyes, full of malice, bore into me. “Jade, darling, what’s wrong? You look like you’d rather be anywhere but here.” Perhaps it was just my imagination, but Evelyn’s face seemed to twist and distort, like a swirling vortex, threatening to drag me into its depths. I shivered, realizing it wasn’t the time to openly defy them. I forced a strained smile. “Nothing’s wrong, I just suddenly need to use the restroom. May I go?” The instant the words left my lips, Evelyn snapped back to normal, her expression stern as she spoke. “No. This is rule-setting time; it cannot be interrupted by such trivialities.” Hearing that, I lowered my gaze to the so-called rule sheet in my hand. In my previous loop, I hadn’t examined it closely, dismissing it as just a warning from Evelyn. I remembered Evelyn saying I’d broken the rules ten times just before she plunged the knife into me. So, to survive, I had to follow this rule sheet first. I began to scrutinize the rules in my hand. Three rules were written there. “First, always answer calls from your Mother-in-law, Father-in-law, and husband, no matter when or where.” “Second, once you marry into the Hayes family, you must sever all ties with your own relatives. You are forbidden from using any *our* resources or wealth to assist them.” “Third, after 8 PM, you are not permitted to leave Leo’s bedroom. Lights out promptly at 8:30 PM.” After reading these three rules, I couldn’t help but curse inwardly. This wasn’t a list of rules; it was a one-sided contract, a complete power play. I felt their intense gazes burning holes into me, and when I dared to look up, all three of them stared like predators eyeing their next meal. I swallowed my rising questions and spoke with a smile. “I will definitely follow these rules.” Turning to Leo Hayes, my boyfriend, I added, “As long as I can be with Leo, I’ll do anything.” My answer seemed to satisfy the three Hayes family members. The oppressive atmosphere seemed to lighten. The sternness on Evelyn’s face was replaced by a doting smile. “Good girl. As long as you wholeheartedly join our Hayes family, you’ll be the most合格的 daughter-in-law.”

After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Leo took me back to the bedroom. Looking at the familiar bedroom, a wave of unfamiliarity washed over me. Perhaps sensing my unease, Leo embraced me from behind. He leaned close to my ear and whispered, “Darling, I hope you don’t disappoint me. The previous women were all so foolish.” “None of them were good daughter-in-laws, but you’re different, aren’t you?” My body stiffened. Leo hadn’t said these things to me in the last loop. Leo didn’t seem to notice my stiffness and led me to the window, still holding me. Looking out the window, I saw only a sparsely populated road. The residential buildings across the street glowed with lights on every floor, but there was an unsettling, unexplainable creepiness about them. I stared at the buildings for a long time and suddenly noticed that the light colors on each floor seemed different. If I looked at the same color blocks, it seemed to spell out a word. I widened my eyes, not daring to blink even as they grew dry and watering. I was afraid that if I blinked, this clue would vanish. Finally, I saw it: it was the word “KITCHEN.” A surge of excitement bubbled inside me. Leo had, at some point, lain down on the bed behind me. I glanced at my watch: 7:45 PM. There was still time. As long as I found the clue before 8 PM, I wouldn’t break a rule. With that thought, I hurried to the kitchen. Evelyn kept the kitchen meticulously clean; the frying pan on the stove gleamed so brightly it reflected the light. I quickly checked everything displayed on the counters but found no clues. I walked to the tall, freestanding refrigerator. The silver-gray fridge was covered with many cute, cartoon-shaped fridge magnets. Without hesitation, I reached out and pulled open the refrigerator door. The moment it opened, a scream almost tore through my throat. Because on the top shelf of the fridge, there was a human head. Her eyes stared straight at me, her face contorted in agony. I forced down my fear and whispered, “Who are you?” The head heard my voice, and her eyeballs rapidly swiveled a few times. She spoke, her voice raspy. “Who am I? I’ve forgotten who I am.” “I was an unqualified daughter-in-law of the Hayes family. I didn’t finish all the food Evelyn made. I was a failure.” I realized that this head might be one of “them” Leo had mentioned. Now, I knew a new rule. If I didn’t finish Evelyn’s food, I’d end up in the fridge. It seemed the rules on the sheet were cumulative, but the rules I found in the kitchen were absolute, deadly ones.

Just as I was trying to sort through my chaotic thoughts, a blinding beam of light suddenly shot into the kitchen doorway. The next second, Evelyn’s voice rang out. “Jade, why aren’t you back in your bedroom yet?” I instinctively glanced at my watch: 7:58 PM. I quickly walked to the kitchen doorway, a fawning smile plastered on my face. “I suddenly got a little thirsty.” Evelyn’s expression was still severe. She spoke dryly. “A Hayes daughter-in-law doesn’t belong in the kitchen. Considering it’s your first offense, I’ll let it slide.” I breathed a sigh of relief, eager to return to the bedroom. Just as I passed Evelyn, she reached out and grabbed my shoulder. A sharp pain shot through my shoulder. I turned my head to see Evelyn’s hand had transformed into razor-sharp claws. The claws had pierced deeply into my shoulder. A wave of belated terror washed over me. Evelyn’s face grew more and more distorted, eventually transforming into a monstrous, green-faced fiend with fangs. “Didn’t I tell you to be in bed promptly at 8:30 PM?” “It’s already 8:40 PM. Why are you still wandering around?” Immediately after, Evelyn’s sharp claws plunged into my stomach until my entire body was a bloody mess. As I collapsed to the ground, my head was directly facing the living room clock. Its hands pointed to 8:40. Once I regained consciousness, I was back in the familiar living room. But I felt that Evelyn’s smile was even wider this time, her lips almost splitting to her ears. Every inch of my skin still throbbed with phantom pain. The moment Evelyn spoke, I involuntarily trembled. “To become a Hayes daughter-in-law, you must show absolute obedience to me.” “As a test for you, starting today, you will be responsible for taking care of Leo’s father.” “Remember, if I find anything wrong with my husband, I will expel you from the Hayes family.” I understood that her “expulsion” wasn’t simply telling me to leave. It meant death. This so-called Mother-in-Law and Daughter-in-Law Rules World – if I didn’t find a way to successfully escape, I would cycle through it endlessly. I didn’t want to experience those terrifying moments of death again. Forcing myself to pull it together, I managed a smile. “Okay, Evelyn, I understand.” Evelyn left contentedly, and Leo also exited the living room, moving like a soulless NPC. Suddenly, only Arthur and I remained in the living room. Arthur appeared kind and benevolent, without the same inhuman aura as Evelyn. Seeing me staring at him, he smiled and waved me over. “Good daughter-in-law, come sit here. I have something to tell you.” My body instinctively screamed to refuse, but I couldn’t. The rules told me I had to obey. I reluctantly walked over and sat beside Arthur. Almost the instant I sat down, he clasped my hand. I tried to pull my hand away, but Arthur held on tightly. His hand was icy cold, gripping me like a giant octopus. “Daughter-in-law, do you know? You remind me so much of Evelyn when she first married me.” “She was just like you back then, knew nothing. It makes me nostalgic.” I shivered. Could Evelyn have been a player once, too? If so, had she succeeded or failed to become an NPC now? I dared not think further, shaking my head to clear the distracting thoughts. Arthur’s words continued. “Don’t worry, I’m not a harsh father-in-law.” “As long as you meekly satisfy all my requests, I’ll let you stay in the Hayes family.” “Now, I want watermelon. Go get it from the fridge.” “Remember, I only eat watermelon cut into small pieces.” Hearing Arthur mention the fridge, I instantly recalled the human head I’d seen in the previous loop. Even though my heart was pounding, I still got up and headed to the kitchen. Evelyn was in the kitchen, preparing dinner. I subserviently looked at her and said, “Arthur said he wanted watermelon and asked me to get it.” Evelyn didn’t react with anger as I’d expected. She simply nodded, indicating I should get it myself. The moment I opened the fridge, I squinted. But the human head I’d imagined didn’t appear. Instead, there was a perfectly round watermelon. I didn’t dare think too much. I took out the watermelon and quickly started cutting it into pieces. But as I cut, I kept feeling like this watermelon was unusually difficult to slice. It felt like I was hacking through bone. I dared not dwell on it and served it to Arthur, who was waiting in the living room. Seeing the glistening watermelon on the plate, Arthur’s face lit up with a happy smile. He took the plate and devoured it, as if he were tasting the most delicious thing in the world. A strange gust of wind inexplicably swept through the room. When I looked at Arthur again, I let out a low gasp. That wasn’t watermelon on the plate at all! It was chunks of a human head, glistening with brain matter and gray pulp!

Arthur’s face was covered in crimson streaks, a truly horrifying sight. I involuntarily gagged a few times. Arthur looked up at me when he heard me. He extended the plate in his hand towards me. As he spoke, bits of brain matter, like tofu, kept falling from his mouth. “Daughter-in-law, you’ve worked hard. Have some watermelon.” I instinctively wanted to refuse, but then I remembered what Chloe, the head, had said to me in the previous loop. I couldn’t refuse any request from the Hayes family, and I couldn’t waste food. But to eat those disgusting human head fragments without any psychological barrier was impossible for me. Seeing my delayed reaction, Arthur’s usually smiling face began to contort. His face started to decay before my eyes, crimson human tissue sloughing off and plopping onto the plate. I could even make out the twitching nerves beneath his dissolving skin. I squeezed my eyes shut, then, as if ready to die, I reached out my hand towards the plate. The instant my fingers touched the contents of the plate, it felt like the cold, firm flesh of watermelon. I opened my eyes, and everything before me had returned to normal. I seized the opportunity, picked up a piece of watermelon, and popped it into my mouth. Thank goodness, it tasted like watermelon. Seeing me eat the watermelon, Arthur’s face also returned to normal. “Delicious, isn’t it? But you can only have one piece. That’s my reward to you.” “In our Hayes family, we always believe in balanced rewards and punishments.” I forced a fawning smile, just nodding in agreement. Arthur quickly finished the watermelon on the plate and extended his hand to me. “I’m full. Help me back to my room to sleep.” Without hesitation, I helped Arthur back to his room. Arthur and Evelyn’s bedroom was surprisingly cozy, with gentle sunlight streaming onto the bed. I helped Arthur lie down. Just as I was about to leave, he suddenly grabbed me. He leaned close to my ear and whispered softly, “Jade, do you also know that this is just a twisted world?” Hearing that, a surge of excitement initially rushed through me. Could it be that Arthur, like me, was trapped in this world? The word “yes” almost escaped my lips, but the next second, I felt like my throat was being choked. Because I remembered the rules: I couldn’t let anyone know I was a player. Cold sweat dripped from my forehead. Was this another test from the rules world? And I had almost let my guard down, potentially rendering all my previous efforts useless. I immediately adopted a confused expression, asking innocently, “Arthur, what are you talking about? What twisted world?” “All I know is that my only job right now is to take good care of you.” Arthur heard my answer, and his eyes held a complex look, but he still smiled and said, “It’s good that you have that mindset. I’m tired and need to rest.” With that, he pulled up the covers, closed his eyes, and seemed to fall asleep. After leaving the bedroom, I breathed a sigh of relief. That hurdle was cleared. The thought drained all strength from my body, and my vision went black as I lost consciousness. During that time, I saw countless young women just like me. They all died in various gruesome ways, revived, and eventually were completely consumed by the twisted world. Suddenly, a familiar face pressed close to my eyes—it was the head from the fridge. Bloody tears streamed from her eyes, and she repeatedly whispered the same phrase. “Come join me, come join me.” “Let me fully merge into your body, completely fuse with you.” I shot upright, realizing I was lying on the living room sofa. The surroundings had completely changed, yet they felt familiar. Because the space I was in was my actual home in the real world. Seeing me awake, my mother, Sarah, smiled and handed me a glass of honey water. “I just made you some honey water. Had a bad dream?” “You were mumbling something about rules in your sleep, honey. I couldn’t understand a word.” My father, Robert, poked his head out of the kitchen, waving a spatula. “You finally decided to wake up, sleepyhead! Just in time, dinner’s almost ready. All your favorites!” I stared blankly at everything, my mother pulling me to sit at the dining table. My father brought out several dishes, all my favorites, indeed. So, the terrifying world I had just experienced was all just a dream? I couldn’t help but let out a self-deprecating laugh. There was no such thing as a rules world; it was just a dream. I smiled, picked up a piece of stir-fried meat, and put it in my mouth. The next second, my eyes fell on the bell peppers on the plate. My hand froze. I hated bell peppers; my dad always made sure to pick them out whenever he cooked. Almost the instant I put the meat into my mouth. My seemingly kind parents transformed into green-faced, fanged monsters, lunging viciously at me. I’d been tricked. I had violated a death rule.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “299232”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller