Category: English

To take care of Lydia Gray, who had been assigned to work in the countryside, Parker Wright voluntarily applied to work in rural areas for three years. Before leaving, he held my hand and said, “You need to save money at home and prepare for our wedding. I’ll marry you as soon as I get back.” I scoffed inwardly: “Save money for the wedding?” The moment he left, I started living it up—eating and drinking well. A year later, Parker, who was supposed to be in the countryside, returned home with Lydia to borrow money. They walked in on me, eight months pregnant, lying on the couch eating snacks and watching TV. Parker pointed at my belly, his hands trembling as he asked, “I’ve been gone for a year. How are you pregnant?” I said, “You came back too early. By the time you were supposed to return, my child would’ve been old enough to help with chores.” Parker was so furious he could barely breathe. “You had an affair with another man and got pregnant, and you dare say something like that! Tell me, whose child is in your belly?” I frowned in displeasure. “How can you talk like that?” Parker was livid, stepping closer to me. “I left home for a year, and you had a child with another man. What is this?” I stepped back in disgust as he grabbed the snack bag I’d been eating from and scattered the contents all over the floor. Parker continued, “And you’re still living in my house—shameless!” Seeing his rage, I sneered and shot back, “I’m counting on Millie to take care of me, so of course I’m staying here. You two are living so miserably—what are you even doing back?” Millie Wright is Parker’s mother. Parker slapped me across the face. My cheek instantly burned with pain as I stared at him in shock. His eyes were bloodshot, both hands gripping my arms tightly. “I’m the head of this household, you shameless woman—get out!” Parker shoved me hard against the table. My stomach immediately felt uncomfortable, but I forced down my anger. I wanted to tell them I had already married Parker’s brother, William Wright. But before I could speak, Lydia let out a shriek. Lydia said, “Parker, she’s living here because she wants to spend William’s money. Everyone knows William made a lot of money after graduating college. She must have told William the baby is yours, so William let her stay in the house. Otherwise, how could William possibly let her live here in comfort?” I frowned at Lydia. “Are you insane? Haven’t you considered that this child might be William’s?” After I said this, both of them burst into laughter. Lydia laughed, “Shameless! Everyone knows William only focuses on his studies. When people try to set him up with girlfriends, he refuses them all.” Parker chimed in, “You obviously don’t know that William already has someone he likes. After finding out that woman got engaged, he even considered never getting married.” He stepped forward and grabbed my chin. “You woman, eating our food, using our things, having affairs with other men, and now trying to slander William. I’m definitely going to teach you a lesson today.” I said, “If you dare hit me, when William comes back…” Before I could finish, he punched me in the face. The intense pain made my stomach ache. I gritted my teeth hard, sweat beading on my forehead from the pain. Parker glared at me viciously. “When William comes back, I’ll still teach you a lesson. I’m going to let everyone see what a shameless woman you are.” Parker grabbed my clothes and dragged me outside. My stomach hurt, and I had no strength to break free. He threw me directly onto the ground. Fortunately, I managed to brace myself with my hands first, preventing my belly from taking the impact. I lay on the ground, curling up as much as possible to protect the child in my womb. But then Parker kicked me hard. “You had the nerve to do such things, but now you don’t have the nerve to admit it?” Parker crouched down and yanked my hair, forcing me to lift my head. The neighbors around us heard the commotion and came over to see what was happening. One neighbor cried out in alarm, trying to intervene. “Parker, Valentina is pregnant!” Valentina Perez is my name. But Lydia said, “This shameless woman Valentina actually got involved with another man while Parker was away from home. She’s still living in the Wright house, deceiving William into taking care of her. The Wright family isn’t one to be fooled and tarnished by a woman like her. Today, Parker is going to teach this woman a lesson and set things straight in this household.”

After Lydia finished speaking, Parker kicked me again. He said viciously, “I’ve been struggling and suffering out there, while you’ve been living it up at home spending William’s money.” I gritted my teeth in pain, opening my mouth to defend myself. But Parker slapped me across the face again. My already swollen face became even more unbearably painful. The pain in my lower abdomen grew more intense. I said weakly, “Stop it.” But my trembling voice didn’t make Parker stop—instead, he hit me even harder. Seeing me curl up in agony, the neighbors around us couldn’t stand it anymore. They quickly stepped forward to intervene. Someone said, “Parker, why don’t you wait until William gets back to handle this?” Parker flew into a rage: “This whore has disgraced our entire family, not only ruining my reputation but deceiving William all along. “I don’t need to wait for William to come back. I’m going to beat this bitch to death today.” Lydia quickly chimed in: “Valentina has been fooling around with other men behind William’s back, and still made William and Millie take care of her. She’s so shameless! “If Parker hadn’t caught her, she would have kept getting away with it.” Everyone around was stunned after hearing Lydia’s words. They thought I had betrayed William and was having an affair that Parker had discovered, so they all started condemning me. Someone said, “Valentina, you’ve gone too far. William is ambitious and hardworking, and Millie takes care of your health every day for the sake of the baby in your belly. How could you do this?” Lydia said, “A slut like Valentina is naturally inclined to bring shame to the family.” As she spoke, she stepped on my hand and ground her heel into it. I trembled all over from the pain as she glared at me menacingly and demanded: “I advise you to confess honestly who your lover is and pay back every penny you’ve spent of the Wright family’s money. Otherwise, I’ll make you face serious consequences.” Parker pressed down on my belly even harder, and I could barely breathe from the pain. I repeatedly called out William’s name in a weak voice. When Parker heard this, he grabbed my throat tightly: “Let me tell you, William is a ruthless man who always gets his revenge. When he finds out how you’ve deceived him, you won’t even keep your life. “With William’s current capabilities, not just you and that bastard in your belly, but your lover and your parents will all be punished too.” Lydia also sneered coldly: “That’s right. William is so devoted to the person he loves that he keeps his feelings hidden to avoid disturbing her life. “You can see what a proud man he is. “If he finds out he’s been deceived by a slut like you, he’ll definitely be furious.” Lydia walked over to Parker with a smile: “Parker, if we help William teach this bitch a lesson now, he’ll definitely thank us when he gets back. “That way, borrowing money from him will definitely go more smoothly.” Parker got excited immediately: “We’ve really done something great by catching this slut. “We were worried that William wouldn’t help us out financially. Now that we’ve discovered how she’s been deceiving him and dealt with her, when he comes back, he’ll definitely thank us properly.”

I spat blood onto Parker, gritting my teeth as I said, “Bullshit! I’m telling you, I’m the one William loves…” Before I could finish, Parker punched me in the stomach. The suffocating pain made me clench my teeth. Parker said, “You still won’t admit it. I’m going to teach you a lesson and show you that the Wright family isn’t to be messed with.” With that, Parker prepared to throw another punch at my stomach. I quickly begged him, “No, don’t hurt my baby.” Parker paused, revealing a terrifying smile. “If you don’t want me to beat that bastard in your belly to death, I have other ways.” He walked into the room and came out with a red-hot branding iron. “A slut like you should be branded so everyone knows you cheated.” I looked up at him in shock. Parker’s face twisted with malice as he stared at me. “This is what you get for betraying me. If you dare not do as I say, I’ll beat that bastard in your belly to death right now!” He raised his fist, clearly not joking. The villagers couldn’t stand watching anymore. A man stepped forward to reason with him. “Parker, Valentina is pregnant after all. Doing this could kill her.” A woman chimed in, “Yes, you should wait until William comes back. When you’re not home, he’s the head of the household. Besides, William has a temper.” Parker roared, “William is my brother! What I say goes! And I’m doing this to defend his honor – how could he blame me?” Then Parker fixed me with a vicious stare. “Valentina, I see you really don’t want that bastard in your belly.” Seeing him about to throw a punch, I quickly said, “I’ll do it. I’ll do what you say.” With trembling hands, I took the branding iron, gritted my teeth, and pressed it hard against my skin. The searing pain instantly spread through my entire body, and I couldn’t help but cry out. My stomach cramped with waves of pain as I curled up on the ground, breaking out in cold sweat. Lydia poured a basin of cold water over me, making my wound sizzle. Seeing my wretched state, Lydia still wasn’t satisfied. She sneered, “Parker, look how much she looks like a sow. I think putting her in the pig pen would be perfect.” Ignoring the pain and cold, I shook my head frantically. “No, don’t throw me in the pig pen.” I was afraid the pigs would ram into me. Parker looked at me with vicious eyes. “That’s not for you to decide.” The moment Lydia opened the pig pen gate, Parker threw me straight inside. I tried to stand up and get away from the pigs, but I was in too much pain to stand. Just then, a pig looked at me menacingly and charged toward me. I could only grit my teeth and crawl desperately away. But I wasn’t as fast as the pig, and it rammed right into me. Parker and Lydia stood aside laughing. Lydia said, “Parker, she’s not even as agile as a pig.” Parker said, “This lying slut tricked my family into taking care of her. She thought she was so clever.” Lydia laughed, “Valentina, run faster. Are you waiting for the boar to mount you?” Parker said, “Slut! I think she’s looking forward to being mounted by the boar.” “Oh my God! Valentina’s bleeding!” someone screamed. Everyone’s eyes fell on my stomach. A woman said, “She’s probably going into labor. Parker, you need to get her out of there or she’ll die.” Parker sneered, “She deserves to die along with the baby in her belly.” Just as Parker finished speaking, a cold voice rang out, filled with rage: “Who do you want to die along with the baby in their belly?” I struggled to lift my head and saw William rushing through the crowd.

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All of Hugo Taylor’s friends knew that Phoebe Hamilton was just a player from another world. When the time came, she would leave. Even so, Hugo had fallen deeply in love with her. The first Christmas, Hugo risked his life climbing Mount Everest just to express his love to Phoebe at the top of the world. The second Christmas, Hugo voluntarily donated his kidney to Phoebe’s friend just to stop her tears. The third Christmas, Hugo endured fifteen lashes from his family just so Phoebe could openly become a member of the Taylor family. The fourth Christmas, Hugo spent lavishly at an auction just to prepare an expensive wedding gift for Phoebe. The fifth Christmas, Hugo broadcast live globally, offering all his wealth in front of everyone just to make Phoebe marry him. Everyone called him a fool, but he said: “Love has never been a game for the clever. Everyone else wants to win this game, but I only want Phoebe.” Finally, Hugo touched Phoebe’s heart, making her willing to abandon everything and stay in this world. Only seven days remained until their wedding. Phoebe was about to go shopping but realized she’d forgotten her purse, so she turned back to get it. She saw Hugo leaving the villa, sneaking toward the warehouse. Phoebe remembered that place only stored some discarded items. She wondered: “What’s Hugo doing there?” By the time Phoebe realized it, she was already following Hugo. The warehouse door opened, dust flying everywhere. Hugo was a germaphobe, yet now he didn’t care at all. He walked to the edge of the warehouse, feeling around for something. After a while, the wall on the right side of the warehouse slowly opened from the middle. There was actually a secret room here. Phoebe covered her mouth, making no sound. She carefully followed Hugo into the secret room. Soon, a crystal coffin appeared before Phoebe. The woman in the coffin had pale skin and colorless lips, clearly dead for a long time. Yet her body showed no signs of decay whatsoever. Hugo said tenderly: “Emilia, I’ve come to see you. In seven more days, you’ll be able to return to my side.” Hugo knelt beside the coffin, holding the woman’s hand. He looked so devoted, yet filled with profound sadness. Phoebe froze. This familiar name reminded her of someone—Emilia Ferguson. Emilia was Hugo’s first love, who had died the Christmas before Phoebe appeared. Phoebe knew Hugo had loved her deeply before. But how could Emilia, who had been dead for so many Christmases, appear here? Soon, Hugo’s next words answered Phoebe’s confusion. He said: “Emilia, how could you bear to leave me alone? But fortunately, with the heart of someone from another world, I can bring you back to life. If it weren’t for the fact that only through successful conquest, making someone from another world willingly stay, can her soul and body merge as one, I wouldn’t have waited five long Christmases. Emilia, we’ll be together again soon.” Hugo pressed his face into Emilia’s palm. Though it was such a tender scene, it filled Phoebe with chills. Her body trembled uncontrollably, even her soul was terrified. Just then, Hugo’s phone rang. The moment he turned around, Phoebe immediately hid behind the wall. Tears blurred her vision, but her hearing became more acute. The person on the phone said: “Hugo, everything’s ready.” Hugo said: “Good. We’ll act on the wedding day.” The person on the phone asked: “Hugo, Phoebe has been with you for five Christmases after all. Isn’t this going too far?” Hugo snorted coldly and said: “She’s the one who’s foolish. Who can she blame? Besides, she can’t go back now. Nothing can be changed.” Phoebe didn’t even know how she walked out of that secret room. Her legs went weak, and she collapsed to the ground after walking less than three hundred feet. The physical pain brought Phoebe back to her senses. She removed the ring from her pinky finger and swallowed the pain in her heart. Then she said in her mind: “System, I regret this.” “Regret index detected rising. System resuming service for you.” The electronic voice that had been absent for so long reappeared in Phoebe’s mind. She slowly exhaled, tears glimmering in her eyes. Phoebe said: “System, I want to go home.” No one knew that after a host chose to stay in this world, the system would monitor them for three months. Within those three months, as long as the host had regrets, they could return to their original world. Today was the last day. The system said: “Understood. As punishment for your indulgence in romance, at the wedding seven days from now, when you personally kill the target, you can go home.” Hugo returned home in the evening. He immediately noticed Phoebe sitting on the sofa in a daze, and his cheerful expression instantly faded. “What’s wrong, Phoebe? Why are you sitting here all alone looking so lost?” Hugo approached with a smile, his voice as gentle as always. The next second, he saw Phoebe’s bleeding knee, and his expression immediately turned frantic. “What happened to your knee? Did you fall? “Why didn’t you treat the wound? What if it gets infected? “You really can’t take care of yourself without me.” Though Hugo was complaining, he immediately fetched the medical kit to treat Phoebe’s wound. He knelt in front of Phoebe, his movements gentle. Phoebe asked, “Hugo, do you love me?” The sudden question made Hugo’s hands pause for a moment. Without looking up, Hugo smiled and said, “Why are you suddenly asking this? Of course I love you. “Phoebe, can’t you see how much I love you?” Of course Phoebe could see it. It was precisely because she had seen so much of his love that when the harsh reality was exposed, she felt so helpless and confused. After Hugo finished applying medicine to Phoebe’s wound, he stood up and sat beside her. “What’s wrong? Did someone say something to you? “Phoebe, don’t listen to their attempts to drive a wedge between us.” Hugo took Phoebe’s hand in his. The rings on their fingers complemented each other, so dazzling. Phoebe remembered that four Christmases ago, someone had also told her that Hugo didn’t truly love her. Later, when Hugo found out about this, she never saw that person again. In the past, Phoebe thought it was because Hugo loved her so much that he wouldn’t allow any flaws in their relationship. Now, thinking back, it might have been because he was worried his plan would be exposed, which made him angry. Phoebe looked down at their intertwined hands. Then she said softly, “In that case, Hugo, we’re getting married soon. “I’ve already organized the things in your study for you.” Hugo, who had been looking gentle just moments before, immediately changed his expression. “What did you say?” Hugo tightened his grip, making Phoebe wince in pain. “I said, I organized the things in your study… Ah!” Before Phoebe could finish speaking, Hugo threw her aside. She fell to the ground, and her barely healed wound began bleeding again. “Who gave you permission to touch the things in my study? Phoebe, what do you think you are?” Hugo’s tall frame was imposing and oppressive, making it hard for Phoebe to breathe. Phoebe wasn’t allowed to enter Hugo’s study, but she knew that most of the things there belonged to Emilia. She endured the pain and stood up from the ground. Then she said, “Hugo, the past is in the past. What matters is the present and the future, isn’t it? “I’ll always be with you. I…” Hugo roared, “Get out!” He looked at Phoebe as if she were a complete stranger. Only at this moment did Phoebe finally understand the difference between herself and Emilia. After all, the dead don’t compete with the living for affection. After saying this, Hugo strode toward the door. Phoebe watched his retreating figure, and the last glimmer of hope in her heart finally died. She closed her eyes, tears streaming down her cheeks. Phoebe said in her heart, “System, I agree. I will kill Hugo.”

Late at night, Phoebe was awakened by thunder. Hugo hadn’t returned yet, but his friends had already called several times. Phoebe finally answered the eighth call. The man on the other end said urgently, “Phoebe, you need to come to the bar right away. Hugo’s had too much to drink and keeps calling your name. We don’t know what to do. Did you two have a fight? You’re getting married soon.” His tone was rushed. But Phoebe recognized him as the person who had called Hugo earlier that day. She didn’t know how many people were involved in this hunt, or how many knew about it. Phoebe sat up in bed, hesitated for a moment, then said, “Alright, I understand.” To ensure she could successfully return home on her wedding day, Phoebe didn’t want any accidents to occur. She also didn’t want them to notice anything unusual. It was pouring rain outside. By the time Phoebe reached the bar, her pants were soaked through at the ankles. Hugo lay alone on the couch, surrounded by his standing friends. When they saw Phoebe arrive, they hurried to persuade her. One man said, “Phoebe, you’re finally here. Hugo treats you so well—why do you insist on fighting with him?” Another man added, “Yeah, Phoebe, don’t forget who you depend on for your current lifestyle. Besides, other than staying by Hugo’s side, where else could you go now?” Phoebe’s gaze swept across their faces. They spoke words of concern, but their eyes showed little genuine worry. She said nothing, crouching beside the couch to pat Hugo’s face. Then she said, “Hugo, are you still awake?” Hugo opened his eyes slightly. Seeing Phoebe, he reached out and wrapped his arms around her waist. He said, “Phoebe, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have yelled at you. I know I was wrong, Phoebe. I just needed time to adjust. You know I’m someone who clings to the past. Phoebe, I was wrong. I’ll never do this again. Don’t leave me.” Hugo’s voice was slurred, as if he really had been drinking heavily. But Phoebe knew this wasn’t how Hugo acted when he was truly drunk. She had taken care of a drunk Hugo many times—how could she mistake his behavior? Hugo was simply using the pretense of being drunk to smooth over their relationship. Phoebe said, “Okay, I understand. I’ll take you home.” With help from the others, Phoebe lifted Hugo from the couch. His steps were unsteady, but each one was planted firmly. That night, caring for the “drunk” Hugo, Phoebe barely slept at all. The next day, when she woke up, Hugo had already left for the office. A note was left beside the bed in Hugo’s handwriting: [Phoebe, thank you for last night. I was wrong. I’ll bring you a gift when I come home tonight.] Every time he made Phoebe angry, Hugo would apologize this way. But the past tenderness now seemed laughable to Phoebe. Phoebe calmly crumpled the note into a ball and tossed it into the trash. Since arriving in this world, she had continued her profession as a fashion designer. With Hugo’s help, her career had flourished. Even her wedding dress was Phoebe’s own design. For this wedding dress, Phoebe had invested tremendous energy, staying up several nights to finally create a satisfactory sketch. She had even made the wedding dress herself, never letting anyone else help. But however satisfied she had been with this wedding dress before, she now found it equally repulsive. Phoebe picked up scissors, wanting to destroy it, but since she had made it with her own hands, she couldn’t bear to do it. In the end, she could only cover the wedding dress with fabric and set it aside. That day, Phoebe worked late into the night to complete orders as quickly as possible. She hadn’t replied to Hugo’s messages all day. Only one lamp illuminated the late-night studio. Phoebe worked with intense focus, not daring to slack off for a moment. This concentration meant that when she noticed the sparks beginning to ignite, it was already too late. The thick carbon dioxide made it hard for Phoebe to breathe. She bent over, covering her nose and mouth, trying to escape outside. However, flames blocked Phoebe’s escape route. The studio was packed with fabric, and the fire spread incredibly fast. Phoebe tried several times but couldn’t get out. She could only watch helplessly as all her hard work was consumed by the flames. Ash blurred her vision, and sharp pain shot through her lungs—each breath felt like torture. Finally, Phoebe collapsed from exhaustion. In the last moment before losing consciousness, she saw firefighters rushing toward her. After what felt like an eternity, Phoebe’s consciousness gradually returned. But her body wouldn’t obey her, as if she were trapped inside a puppet. Then she heard a man’s low voice nearby—a voice that sounded familiar. “Is everything cleaned up? Are you sure there’s no trace left?” “I know those things were important to Phoebe. But she lost Emilia’s belongings, so she had to pay the price.” “Now we’re even.” It was Hugo’s voice. Phoebe’s hands instinctively gripped the bedsheets. She kept her eyes closed as tears slid down from the corners. When Phoebe fully regained consciousness, it was already noon on the third day. The moment she opened her eyes, she saw her assistant Ruby Simpson keeping watch by her bedside. “Ms. Hamilton, you’re finally awake. You nearly scared me to death,” Ruby said. Her eyes were red and swollen, her voice choked with emotion. With Ruby’s help, Phoebe sat up and tried to speak, only to find she couldn’t make a sound. “Ms. Hamilton, don’t worry. The doctor said you inhaled too much smoke and dust—it’s normal not to be able to speak right after waking up,” Ruby comforted her. “You’ll be fine in a little while.” Only then did Phoebe feel relieved. She typed on her phone: [What happened to the clothes in the studio?] “By the time the firefighters arrived, all the clothes and design sketches had burned up. They only managed to save a few computers, but those were badly damaged too,” Ruby said. “Ms. Hamilton, I’m afraid we won’t be able to complete this order.” Ruby looked dejected, her eyes filled with frustration. Phoebe slumped back against the hospital bed, staring blankly at her fingers. The ring that symbolized her love with Hugo still sparkled brightly. But Hugo’s words that she’d heard in her semi-conscious state kept echoing in her mind. Hugo knew she was still working overtime, yet he hadn’t hesitated to set that fire. Did it not matter what harm came to her as long as she didn’t die? Phoebe slowly closed her eyes, suppressing the bitterness in her heart. She continued typing on her phone: [There’s something wrong with this fire. Go investigate it.] Ruby’s expression changed. Just as she was about to speak, the hospital room door was pushed open. Phoebe immediately turned off her phone screen. Hugo strode forward, pushing Ruby aside and grabbing Phoebe’s hand. “Phoebe, you’re finally awake. I was so worried about you,” he said. The Hugo before her looked deeply affectionate, and Phoebe couldn’t detect any flaws in his act. However, Phoebe’s heart remained completely unmoved. Hugo continued, “I know you really wanted to wear a wedding dress you designed yourself, but… it’s okay, Phoebe. I already prepared a backup plan. What do you think of this wedding dress?” Hugo pulled out his phone and showed her a photo of the wedding dress. Phoebe had to admit that from a designer’s perspective, this wedding dress was flawless. But the person who had once worn this dress was none other than Emilia.

Phoebe’s hand suddenly gripped Hugo’s arm. Hugo explained, “Emilia used to work as a bridal model for a while. This photo was just taken by chance. Phoebe, don’t overthink it. But I know you’re the most understanding person, so you definitely won’t get upset over something so trivial.” Hugo pulled his hand away and gently stroked Phoebe’s head. He was too confident, certain that Phoebe would never leave him. So his five years of pretended devotion finally showed its cracks in this moment. Phoebe suppressed the anger in her heart and smiled at Hugo. That day, Phoebe was discharged from the hospital and went home with Hugo. In just three days, Phoebe discovered that many things in the house had changed. Her favorite lilies had been replaced, and the entire hall was now filled with vibrant roses. Medieval oil paintings hung on the walls, and the carpet had been changed to a Bohemian style that Phoebe disliked. Even all the dinnerware had been replaced with new sets. Hugo stood behind Phoebe and said softly, “We’re getting married soon, so it’s better to replace everything in the house with new things. It’s also a nice symbol.” Phoebe had her back to him, so he couldn’t see the coldness on her face. The roses, oil paintings, carpet, and dinnerware were all things Emilia liked. With three days left until their wedding, was Hugo already this impatient? Phoebe said nothing and pretended not to notice anything. But Hugo became increasingly brazen, even replacing all of Phoebe’s clothes with styles that Emilia preferred. He called it “trying a different style.” On this day, with two days left until their wedding, Hugo took Phoebe directly to a banquet hosted by the Ferguson family. The moment they stepped into the banquet hall, everyone’s eyes fell on them. Years ago, everyone knew about Hugo and Emilia’s romance. They were about to get engaged when Emilia died from illness. Later, Hugo maintained contact with the Ferguson family. Until five years ago, when Phoebe appeared. “Hugo, is this your fiancée?” A woman who bore a five-point resemblance to Emilia walked up to them. She wore a gentle smile on her face, but her gaze toward Phoebe was particularly cold. Hugo smiled and said, “Long time no see, Freya. Phoebe, this is Emilia’s sister, Freya Ferguson.” Freya smiled and linked arms with Phoebe. She said softly, “Phoebe, I really envy you for being able to marry such a wonderful man like Hugo. Unfortunately, my sister Emilia didn’t have that kind of luck.” Phoebe wanted to say, “Want me to give you this luck?” But she maintained her smile on the surface. Freya smiled and said, “Hugo, go ahead and mingle. Just leave Phoebe with me.” Hugo said, “Thank you for that.” He reached out and patted Freya’s head, then turned and walked away. Freya was quite popular, and many people greeted her along the way. Phoebe couldn’t figure out her intentions, so she could only follow cautiously beside her. It wasn’t until they reached a quiet corner with fewer people that Freya finally revealed her true purpose. She said coldly, “Phoebe, what right do you have to marry Hugo?” Freya’s smile disappeared, replaced by resentment and jealousy. Phoebe took a step back and asked warily, “What are you trying to do?” Freya said coldly, “You women are like flies—you can never kill them all. I originally thought that after Emilia died, it would be my turn to marry Hugo. But what happened? Hugo did notice me, but every time he looked at me, he was seeing Emilia through me. Phoebe, you’re the least qualified of all. You’re the one who should disappear.” Just when Phoebe thought Freya was about to do something to her, Freya suddenly fell backward. Her body crashed heavily into the table. Immediately, all the knives and forks on the table fell down, and one happened to land on Freya’s face. That face, which bore a five-point resemblance to Emilia, immediately showed a bloody gash. Freya cried out, “My face!” Freya covered her face, letting out an agonizing scream. Blood seeped through her fingers, dripping onto her light-colored haute couture gown—a horrifying sight. Though Phoebe had anticipated Freya would frame her, the scene before her left her frozen in shock. The commotion quickly drew everyone’s attention. Hugo and Freya’s parents, Blake Ferguson and Maisie Ferguson, hurried over. Blake frowned, asking sternly, “What’s all this arguing about? What happened? Freya, what’s wrong with your face?” Upon seeing Freya’s condition, his expression changed instantly. Panic-stricken, he stepped forward to support Freya’s shoulders. “Freya!” Maisie shrieked, completely losing her usual composure. The couple’s faces turned ashen as they instinctively shot hateful glares at Phoebe. “Dad, Mom, what about my face? What am I going to do now?” Freya’s voice trembled. Tears mixed with blood made her look both pitiful and terrifying. Maisie comforted her, “Don’t be afraid, Freya. We’ll definitely get you healed.” She helped Freya up and immediately led her away from the scene. Despite having seen through Hugo’s true nature, Phoebe instinctively sought comfort from him in that moment. She clutched tightly at Hugo’s sleeve, looking at him anxiously. Phoebe explained, “I didn’t do this, I really didn’t. You have to believe me, Hugo.” However, Hugo merely glanced at her indifferently without saying a word. Blake said angrily, “Mr. Taylor, I graciously invited you to attend this banquet. And what happened? What did your fiancée do to my daughter?” Blake looked both heartbroken and furious. Hugo lowered his head, saying quietly, “I’m sorry. This is my responsibility. But I believe Phoebe didn’t mean it.” Blake cut off Hugo’s words: “So what if she didn’t mean it? It’s already happened. What I want to see is your attitude and the price she’ll pay.” With just a few words, they had condemned Phoebe. Phoebe finally snapped back to reality. The moment Hugo reached for her hand, she yanked it away forcefully. She said, “It wasn’t me. I didn’t push her, she did it herself…” Blake said coldly, “Are you saying my daughter destroyed her own face just to frame you?” Looking at Blake’s cold expression, Phoebe stood there stunned, thinking: “Yes. But why? If it was just to frame me, would she really need to go this far? But if it wasn’t to frame me, then what was it for?” Hugo said flatly, “Enough, Phoebe. Since you did something wrong, you need to pay the price. I know you don’t like Emilia, and you don’t like Freya either. But this time, you’ve gone too far.” His tone was calm, but his eyes held deep sadness as he looked at Phoebe. Then Hugo reached out, gently caressing Phoebe’s face. He said, “Phoebe, trust me. Even if you lose this face, I’ll still love you.” Hugo’s voice was gentle, but Phoebe felt utterly terrified. She looked at Hugo in disbelief. This man who had once donated his kidney for her without hesitation was now ready to destroy her face just as readily. Tears of terror slid down Phoebe’s cheeks. She shook her head, backing away step by step. Phoebe cried, “No, Hugo, you can’t do this to me. I didn’t do anything. Why are you all treating me like this?” Phoebe turned to flee, but heard Hugo’s demonic whisper behind her. He said, “Grab her.” Almost as soon as he finished speaking, two men rushed out from the crowd and seized Phoebe’s arms. Phoebe struggled desperately, but it was useless. She could only watch helplessly as Hugo approached her slowly, knife in hand. Phoebe roared, “Let me go! Let me go! Hugo, you can’t do this! You can’t treat me like this! Let me go! Please, Hugo. I’m begging you. I shouldn’t have thrown away Emilia’s things. I was wrong. I know I was wrong.” Phoebe’s pleas didn’t soften Hugo’s heart. His hand didn’t tremble in the slightest. The next second, the knife’s edge touched Phoebe’s face. “Ah!” Phoebe screamed. Phoebe passed out from the pain. When she woke up again, she was lying in her bed at home. It wasn’t until the bandages were changed that evening that she truly saw her face. Looking at the mirror, Phoebe stared at her reflection—a face covered in knife wounds, fierce and terrifying—and could hardly believe it was her own. Hugo had clearly been ruthless that day; some of the wounds had edges where the flesh had curled back. The day before the wedding, Phoebe spotted Freya sneaking into the house from her bedroom window. Curious, Phoebe quietly slipped downstairs, avoiding the servants. She saw Hugo receiving Freya in the courtyard. Hiding behind a large tree, Phoebe eavesdropped on their conversation. Freya said, “Hugo, didn’t you promise that if I framed her and let her ruin my face, you would marry me? Why are you still going through with marrying her? Why?” No wonder Freya had been so desperate to destroy her own face—it was Hugo who had instigated it. Phoebe felt terrified. Compared to Freya’s urgency, Hugo appeared completely composed. He reached out to embrace Freya, gently caressing her face before saying, “Of course I’ll keep my promise. On the wedding day, make sure you dress nicely.” Freya’s face flushed with color, clearly misunderstanding Hugo’s words. She flirted with Hugo for a while longer before reluctantly leaving at his urging. Phoebe peered out, watching Hugo’s retreating figure. After Freya left, Hugo quickly stripped off his jacket and threw it on the ground in disgust. He said, “Disgusting. She actually wants to be with her sister’s boyfriend—what a slut! If it weren’t for her face bearing some resemblance to Emilia’s, I wouldn’t bother with her. Now Emilia’s face is truly one of a kind in this world. After tomorrow’s wedding is over, Emilia and I can finally be together forever.” Hugo’s expression looked somewhat crazed. Phoebe shuddered and turned off her phone’s recording function. On the wedding day, there were particularly many guests. To maintain his image as a good man, Hugo threw a lavish wedding. He not only spent a fortune on the wedding venue but even arranged for a global live broadcast. Phoebe’s facial wounds hadn’t healed yet, so she could only temporarily hide them with her veil. Looking at herself in the mirror, Phoebe wore a mocking expression. Without makeup and wearing someone else’s wedding dress, she was probably the first person to experience such a wedding. Phoebe left the dressing room, and the wedding ceremony officially began. The two walked to the minister’s side and held hands under his guidance. Hugo looked deeply moved, even with tears in his eyes. He said, “Phoebe, from the moment I first met you five years ago, I knew I had to marry you in this lifetime. These five years have flown by because of your companionship. Today, we’ve finally reached our wedding day. Phoebe, will you marry me?” Hugo’s tone held no hesitation, certain that Phoebe would agree. Phoebe smiled, but her words were ice-cold: “Of course I won’t. I won’t marry a murderer who wants to kill me.” As soon as Phoebe finished speaking, the guests below fell into immediate silence. Then came an even louder buzz of discussion than before. Hugo’s face darkened, but he still forced a smile and said, “Phoebe, what are you talking about? What murderer? Did someone tell you something? How could I bear to hurt you?” Phoebe looked toward Ruby in the audience, and Ruby, under Hugo’s murderous glare, quickly stepped forward and handed Phoebe her phone. Immediately, Phoebe opened the phone and played a surveillance video. She said, “This surveillance footage is from outside my studio at Spaghetti, recorded on the day my studio caught fire. Hugo, you should recognize this man in the video, shouldn’t you?” Hugo’s face changed, and he said through gritted teeth, “That person is indeed my driver, but I had absolutely no knowledge of this. It was entirely his own doing. Phoebe, everyone knows how well I’ve treated you these past five Christmases. How can you doubt my feelings for you based on one video?” Hugo frowned and lowered his voice, putting on a wounded and aggrieved expression. But Phoebe remained unfazed and pulled out a voice recorder, saying, “Regarding what just happened, you claim he acted alone, but surely you can’t deny this, can you?” The next second, Hugo’s voice echoed throughout the entire venue: “Once tomorrow’s wedding is over, Emilia and I can finally be together forever.” His face instantly turned pale. Below the stage, Freya’s eyes widened as she roared in fury, “You lied! You deceived me! Hugo, you clearly promised me that as long as Phoebe’s face was ruined, you would marry me. Hugo, how dare you lie to me!” Upon hearing this, Freya completely lost her mind and loudly accused him. If not for the bodyguards restraining her, she would have already rushed onto the stage. Looking at the silent Hugo, Phoebe sneered, “You want to use my heart to revive your lover? Hugo, that’s absolutely impossible.” Phoebe lifted her wedding dress and pulled out the dagger strapped to her calf. Hugo shouted in shock, “What are you doing? Phoebe, don’t do anything foolish! Stop her! Don’t let her—” Before Hugo could finish his words, Phoebe had already plunged the blade deep into his heart. He thought Phoebe was going to commit suicide, never expecting she intended to kill him. Blood gushed out as Hugo collapsed heavily to the ground. Even now, he couldn’t comprehend what had just happened—why would Phoebe, who once loved him enough to risk her life, become the one to kill him? The scene erupted into chaos. The moment Hugo closed his eyes, Phoebe’s soul was extracted from her body, and a pleasant electronic voice rang in her ears: “Host, congratulations on completing your mission. You may prepare to go home now.”

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When Freddie Anderson was promoted to Washington, he submitted a list of accompanying family members to the government. Two names were written on that list. One was our son Bobby Anderson, and the other was Rosie Scott, who had worked with him in the countryside. Life in the countryside was harsh, and he couldn’t possibly leave Bobby here to suffer. As for Rosie, he had long promised to bring her back to Washington with him. As for me, his wife, I should be generous enough to let go and give the opportunity to someone else. Freddie said, “You’re just a country woman. You’d be useless in Washington. Rosie is educated and cultured—she’s more suitable than you. When there’s a chance later, Bobby and I will come back for you.” Hearing his dismissive words, my heart felt like it had been shattered by a heavy hammer. But there was one thing he didn’t know. Although I had lived in the countryside longer than him, I wasn’t the ignorant country woman he claimed I was. I was the talent Washington wanted most. The promotion opportunity he received was one I had voluntarily given up. ***** I returned home dejectedly, hearing cheerful laughter coming from inside the house. When he saw me come back, Freddie immediately wiped the smile off his face and glanced at me coldly. He said, “Since you’re back, hurry up and cook dinner. We’re all waiting for you.” Freddie didn’t ask why I had come home so late today. He also didn’t mention the list of accompanying personnel that had already been submitted. When Freddie first came to work in the countryside, he fell in love with me at first sight and would stutter every time he spoke to me. Back then, I hadn’t planned on romance, but Freddie would always follow behind me with a red face. Over time, I gradually opened my heart and agreed to be with him. When we first got married, Freddie said he would return to Washington someday and promised to show me around the city where he was born. But I don’t know when it started—I fell deeper and deeper into this relationship while Freddie became less affectionate toward me than before. Rosie walked out of Freddie’s room wearing the formal dress I had always treasured. She smiled happily, her eyes full of youthful vitality. The white dress made her face look even more delicate. Meanwhile, after years of hard work, fine wrinkles had already appeared at the corners of my eyes. When Rosie saw me, she covered her mouth with her fingertips and let out a soft gasp of surprise. She said, “Isabella, you’re back. My clothes got wet by accident, so Freddie found me an outfit to change into. Isabella, you don’t mind, do you?” Isabella Mackay is my name. Rosie spoke apologetically, but her eyes were full of smugness. I suppressed my anger and said stiffly, “You changed just because he told you to? Can’t you see this is the dress I wore at my wedding? Changing clothes in another woman’s husband’s house—don’t you understand what’s proper? What’s shameful?” Rosie was stunned by my words, and tears slowly welled up in her eyes. She said, “I’m sorry. I didn’t know.” Freddie suddenly slammed the table and shouted at me, “Enough! “I’m the one who gave Rosie the clothes. If you have a problem with it, take it up with me. Why are you taking it out on her? “Rosie’s clothes were wet. Did you want her to keep wearing wet clothes? Can’t you stop being so selfish?” I bit my lip tightly, unable to believe that Freddie would actually yell at me. Bobby put down his book and frowned as he scolded me, “Mom, it’s just a piece of clothing. You scared Miss Scott. You’re being too petty.” Every word they said made my heart feel like it had fallen into an icy abyss. They were blaming me as if I had done something wrong. Freddie gently wiped away Rosie’s tears. Then he turned to me and said coldly, “Stop being unreasonable and go cook dinner. Rosie is eating here today. “Remember not to add chili peppers. Rosie is on her period and spicy food will make her uncomfortable.” Before I could even react, he turned around and walked away without looking back.

That evening, I deliberately didn’t cook dinner as a form of protest. Seeing this, Freddie didn’t try to coax me. Instead, he took Rosie and Bobby straight to a restaurant for dinner. That night, Freddie and Bobby didn’t come home at all. My plan to confront Freddie about the travel list was derailed just like that. By the next day, the whole village was buzzing about Freddie’s promotion to Washington, saying Bobby and I would be going with him. I hadn’t even fully woken up when a loud slam of the door startled me awake. The moment I opened my eyes, Freddie yanked me out of bed. He roared, “Isabella, what’s the point of pressuring me like this?” I was stunned, having no idea what was happening. Freddie continued, “I don’t know who told you about my Washington assignment, but let me tell you—your name isn’t on the list at all. Stop daydreaming!” Hearing this, I let out a cold laugh. “So what? What exactly are you trying to say?” Freddie sneered, “What are you pretending for? You spread this news around just to force me to replace someone’s name with yours on the list, didn’t you? “You’re just a country woman. What makes you think you’re qualified to go to Washington with me?” At that moment, Freddie finally showed his true colors. Just then, Rosie rushed in after him, her voice choked with tears. “Freddie, I’m the one taking Isabella’s spot. If Isabella’s upset, I can give the position to her. Please don’t fight because of me.” But Bobby, acting like an adult, comforted Rosie instead. “Ms. Scott, don’t cry. That position was meant to be yours anyway. My mom doesn’t understand anything—taking her to Washington would be a waste of an opportunity. You’re the only one suited to come with us.” My husband and son were both gathered around another woman, while I lay disheveled on the floor in my nightclothes. I stared at Freddie in disappointment. I said, “I did know you were going to Washington, and I knew my name wasn’t on the list. But I have no idea how others found out about this. “Shouldn’t you explain why Rosie’s name is the only one on the list of people going with you?” Knowing he was in the wrong, Freddie turned away, unable to meet my eyes. He said, “You’re just a country woman—going to Washington wouldn’t do you any good. Rosie is educated; she’s more suitable than you. When there’s a chance later, Bobby and I will visit you often.” Even Freddie probably didn’t believe such lies himself. I couldn’t help but scoff. “It’s over six hundred miles from here to Washington. How exactly do you plan to visit me often?” Freddie was stumped by my question. He said, “Don’t be so selfish. The opportunity to go to Washington is rare. If we miss this chance, Rosie might never get another opportunity to go back. I know you’ve always been hostile toward Rosie, but there’s nothing dirty between us like you think. We’re completely innocent—stop throwing tantrums.” Bobby crossed his arms, already showing traces of Freddie’s influence, lecturing me like an adult. He said, “Mom, you’re being too selfish. You were born in the countryside anyway, so why not give the chance to return to the city to Ms. Scott? Dad’s right! Only educated people like Ms. Scott deserve to go to Washington with us.” I let out a cold laugh. Bobby seemed to have forgotten that he too was one of those people born in the countryside he spoke of, and that he came from the belly of this very country woman he was dismissing. Whether I went back to Washington or not didn’t matter to me at all. What hurt me was Freddie and Bobby’s attitude. For the sake of an outsider, they came to accuse me without even bothering to understand the situation. Freddie left with his arm around Rosie. Before leaving, he said coldly, “Stay home and reflect on your behavior. Don’t do such childish things again.”

Freddie and Bobby started giving me the cold shoulder. In the past, I would have definitely thought I’d done something wrong and swallowed my pride to please them. But things were different now. I wouldn’t coddle them anymore because I wasn’t the one who’d done anything wrong. They were just trying to use indifference to force me to bow down to them. Bobby finally couldn’t stand it and came to me, acting unnaturally. He said, “Mom, I’ve learned the Pythagorean theorem.” Seeing Bobby’s expectant expression, I suddenly felt bored. Before, even when I thought Bobby was being slow, I would pretend not to understand and let him explain it to me, then praise him lavishly. Bobby would always put on a helpless expression. After explaining, he’d say, “This is all knowledge. Even if I tell you about it, you wouldn’t understand.” But I never expected that after coddling him so much, he’d actually start believing he was a genius. The Pythagorean theorem was such simple knowledge that I’d already figured it out when I was two or three years old. He was almost eight now and had just learned it, yet he had the nerve to come looking for praise. I didn’t have time to coddle him, so I said flatly, “Good, keep working hard.” Bobby didn’t get the response he wanted and got angry. He glared at me fiercely and left. Soon, the government learned that Freddie had gone to Washington without bringing his wife, so they sent someone to our house to inquire about the situation. Freddie put on a serious act and said, “Rosie is an educated person. Taking her to Washington would benefit both her personal development and the country’s. When it comes to national interests, my small family doesn’t matter. My wife is very supportive of my decision.” The government was moved by this kind of behavior that put the greater good first and approved a subsidy for our family. But when the subsidy came through, I didn’t see a single cent of it. When I found Freddie, he was shopping in the county town with Bobby and Rosie. He was already carrying several bags, most of which contained women’s clothing. He asked, “What are you doing here? Instead of staying home to clean house and cook, what are you doing out here?” Freddie put on an arrogant attitude, lifting his chin to look at me, waiting for me to bow down and apologize to him. But I wasn’t there to apologize. “Freddie, where’s the money the government gave me?” Freddie said coldly, “What money of yours? This money is nominally for you, but it’s actually because I got promoted to Washington that the leadership gave it. How did it become yours? I can spend it on whoever I want—you have no right to interfere. “Besides, you don’t need this money at all living in the village. The cost of living in Washington is very high. Rosie and I, taking Bobby there to live—this money isn’t nearly enough.” Looking at Freddie acting so self-righteous, I was completely disappointed in them. I said coldly, “You better give me back that money right now, or I’ll sue you. This is called misappropriating someone else’s property, and then you won’t be able to go back to Washington.” Freddie’s eyes widened with anger: “Crazy woman! You’re being completely unreasonable!” Rosie was more afraid than anyone of not being able to go to Washington, so she immediately started crying and grabbed Freddie’s sleeve. She said, “Freddie, Isabella is already angry. Please give the money back to Isabella. I don’t need these things.” Freddie shielded Rosie behind him and stamped his feet anxiously: “You jealous woman just don’t like Rosie. If you insist on having this money today, then let’s get divorced.” Bobby also joined Freddie in calling me vicious and said he’d never talk to me again. But I wasn’t affected by them at all. A crowd gradually gathered around us, whispering and discussing. I hadn’t done anything wrong, so naturally I wasn’t afraid of their gossip. But Freddie and Rosie couldn’t stand it, and in the end, they gave me back the money.

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Reborn, the first thing I did was resign from my position as Chief Art Restorer at Sterling Antiques, earning the scandalous label of an industry pariah. In fact, when Sterling Antiques was raided and sealed off for fraud, I couldn’t help but gloat. Because in my previous life, Serena Hayes, the woman Julian Sterling had always pined for, had met an untimely end. And I, bound by a debt to the Sterling family for clearing my adoptive father’s name, married Julian as Serena’s stand-in, becoming Mrs. Sterling. For three years, I stood by him through thick and thin, expanding Sterling Antiques into a thriving empire. My innovative restoration techniques allowed a near-bankrupt Sterling Antiques to dominate the authentication market, becoming an official partner of the government’s heritage preservation bureau. I genuinely believed that our shared dedication would eventually earn his heart. But at the celebration party on the penthouse floor, he publicly played a video, accusing me of swapping Serena Hayes’s restoration report. “Stella Sterling, you didn’t just switch Serena’s report, you stole her entire life!” My own apprentice, Amber Evans, even held up an evidence bag, her voice sharp with accusation: “Professor Sterling, fragments of Serena’s report were found right in your office!” In the chaos, I was shoved, lost my footing, and plummeted to my death. When I opened my eyes again, I was back on the very day the Sterling family was deciding on my engagement. Grandpa Sterling excitedly announced. “Stella, my dear, you and Julian have the best rapport. I think this marriage is settled.”

I looked up at Julian Sterling, his gaze as cold as winter frost. In that instant, I realized he had been reborn too. Since his heart only held Serena Hayes, I would grant them their wish and, in turn, save myself some dignity. The Sterling family had an unspoken rule: only the Chief Restorer of Sterling Antiques could marry the family heir. I calmly rose, sweeping my gaze across the room filled with Sterling relatives, then bowed deeply and steadily to Grandpa Sterling. “Grandpa Sterling, I’m deeply grateful for your kindness.” “However, I’m just an orphan, brought up by the Sterling family. With my background, how could I possibly be worthy of the Chief Restorer title?” Julian Sterling’s expression shifted as he stared at me. He must have thought I’d still be meek and subservient, collapsing in gratitude for any scrap of kindness, ready to go to hell and back for the Sterling family? How laughable. I curled my lips into a smile, looking at Julian Sterling. “I have someone I’d like to recommend.” “Serena Hayes is incredibly talented at a young age in the restoration field. If she could be posthumously appointed Chief Restorer of Sterling Auction House, it would be a huge asset to the Sterling name.” Julian Sterling’s face drained of all color. The next second, he abruptly slammed down the water glass on the conference table, throwing all etiquette to the wind, and stormed out. I knew exactly where he was going. In the previous life, Serena Hayes had gone overseas to auction artifacts but died tragically there, becoming a lifelong nightmare of regret for Julian Sterling. At this moment, Julian Sterling must have believed he could stop that tragedy. “Nonsense, Stella, what are you blabbering about!” Grandpa Sterling’s face flushed crimson with rage, and his teacup smashed to pieces. “Sterling Antiques invested in you for ten years, and you dare to decline the Chief position in front of everyone, publicly handing such a critical role to an unknown?” “Is this how you repay the Sterling family’s generosity?” I walked up to Grandpa Sterling, handing him the resignation I had prepared long ago. My voice was calm: “Grandpa Sterling, I’ve never forgotten the opportunity Sterling Antiques gave me, but a century-old legacy shouldn’t rest on a foundation of one-sided gratitude. Serena Hayes has risked her life tracking down black market artifacts for years; she undoubtedly deserves the title of Sterling’s Chief.” Grandpa Sterling was visibly shaken by my words. I bowed my head, then turned and left the room. Stepping out of the conference hall, I headed back to the lab I had personally built. I opened the safe and took out the evidence I’d gathered overseas of Serena Hayes’s artifact smuggling. In my previous life, I had risked my life to protect that crucial Renaissance ceramic restoration report, only for Julian Sterling to turn on me, accusing me of plagiarizing Serena Hayes’s work and tampering with her report! My fingertip traced the broken fragments, and I murmured: “Julian Sterling, in this life, I will not give another ounce of my effort to the Sterling family!” The next morning, the area outside the building was buzzing with people. Sterling Antiques officially announced Serena Hayes as the Chief Restorer, stating she had defended cultural heritage and protected national treasures with her life. Julian Sterling helped Serena Hayes, whose demeanor was cool and detached, wearing a forced smile. Media swarmed in, and I listened to the applause outside, my eyes calm and indifferent. In the afternoon, the frantic click of high heels echoed from outside the lab building. I walked over and pulled the door open, only to see Julian Sterling bringing Serena Hayes, heading straight for the boardroom. Soon after, barely suppressed shouting erupted from the main hall. “Father! You clearly promised that Sterling Antiques’ Chief would lead the artifact repatriation and major restoration projects! This order belongs to Serena!”

“No! This is a collaboration with the National Heritage Foundation. A last-minute change will only cause problems!” Grandpa Sterling’s voice boomed through the conference room. I paused at the doorway for a few seconds, took a deep breath, and pushed the door open. Since they want it, I’ll give them everything. I carried a file box and, under everyone’s watchful eyes, placed it in front of Grandpa Sterling. “Mr. Sterling, these are the Sterling Arts Foundation’s generational restoration reports and core documents concerning the priceless Renaissance ceramic piece.” I instinctively straightened my back, my voice unwavering: “Since the board has decided that Ms. Hayes will lead the upcoming projects, these materials naturally should be transferred.” Grandpa Sterling pressed down on the file box, opening it to quickly flip through the contents. Hundreds of high-resolution detailed comparison reports, each bearing my handwritten signature. The board members seated around us remained silent, no one attempting to ease the suffocating tension. Grandpa Sterling looked at me, his expression unreadable: “My dear, I’ve put you through too much. Julian can be so stubborn; I can’t talk any sense into him.” I forced a self-mocking smile. “Grandpa Sterling, you overstate it. I am an art restorer for Sterling Antiques; fulfilling my duties is simply part of my job.” Before I finished speaking, I glanced at Julian Sterling. His face was resolute, though I couldn’t discern his emotions. “Thank you.” I pulled my gaze away, then took an encrypted USB drive from my pocket. “There’s one more thing.” “This contains all the core customs data for the priceless cultural artifacts I’ve handled during my ten years in office. Please keep it safe yourself, Mr. Sterling.” Serena Hayes’s expression shifted subtly, her hands twitching with eagerness. Seeing this, Grandpa Sterling immediately took the USB drive, his brows furrowed, but he said nothing. “Since all restoration reports and techniques have been transferred, my work here is concluded.” I nodded to Grandpa Sterling, then to Julian Sterling, and walked straight out of the place where I had poured my heart and soul for ten years. Suddenly, someone called out behind me. “Stella Sterling, wait.” Julian Sterling’s voice was cold. He stood up from his chair. “Since you are no longer the restorer, you no longer have the right to enter the lab.” “Security, immediately revoke all of Stella’s access.” Grandpa Sterling suddenly exploded in anger, questioning: “You ungrateful brat, what are you doing?! Stella dedicated herself to Sterling Antiques for ten years. Is she someone you can just drive out?!” Julian Sterling’s face remained expressionless: “Father, I’ve said what needs to be said. Now that Serena is leading the project team, Stella’s presence here will only cause unnecessary misunderstandings.” The conference room fell into a suffocating silence. I looked around. The shareholders who used to curry favor with me now all lowered their heads, refusing to meet my gaze. The air in the room was stifling. I offered a faint smile, my voice calm: “Since Mr. Sterling has made his decision, I will comply and leave.” Just as I pulled open the conference room door, a familiar voice abruptly rang out. “Professor Sterling, please wait.” My apprentice, Amber Evans, was already standing by the door, two security guards behind her, her face grim. She stepped forward, her voice dripping with sarcasm: “Professor Sterling, please return all Sterling Antiques’ issued restoration tools, and the smart grinding equipment you signed for – they are all company property.” She pointed to my ID badge on my chest, then looked at the tool bag in my hand, her expression meticulous. “According to protocol, personal items can be taken, but company property must be registered and returned.” Serena Hayes stood by, a slight smirk playing on her lips: “Stella, you need to leave everything that belongs to Sterling Antiques, including the clothes on your back. Otherwise, if any artifacts go missing later, you’ll have a hard time explaining yourself.” Grandpa Sterling said coldly: “These tools are Stella’s personal property! I gave them to her myself years ago! Who dares to touch them?!”

I stared at Julian Sterling, my ID badge clicking in my hand. “Do you really think so too?” Julian Sterling merely nodded, offering no explanation. “Let’s wipe the slate clean, and then we go our separate ways.” It felt like a jagged knife had ripped through my chest, and my throat tasted of rust. “The Sterling family plays a good hand.” “The international art dealer’s Renaissance ceramic fraud case, the stolen ancient manuscripts switching case… I personally exposed the fakes and recovered the smuggled artifacts. Each and every one brought honor to Sterling Antiques, didn’t it?” “Not to mention the ‘Jade and Porcelain Masterpiece’ at that international auction, which put the auction house into the global top three. Over the years, when did the benefits ever fall to someone else?” Grandpa Sterling leaned on his cane, his expression complex. But Julian Sterling’s face remained indifferent. “You’ve come this far because you used the Sterling family’s platform, and you used Sterling Antiques’ resources.” “That was your duty.” I scoffed. “So that’s how it is. What a Sterling family indeed.” “Then you all listen up. From today on, I have no ties with the Sterling family.” In front of everyone, I raised my hands and removed everything I wore that was associated with Sterling Antiques. Finally, I took off the last remaining shirt on my body, my voice steady: “It’s been a pleasure doing business with you all these years.” Julian Sterling’s expression suddenly changed. He strode forward, as if to grab me. But I stepped back, my eyes like chips of ice. “Mr. Sterling, are you satisfied now?” Someone gasped. Some even secretly started recording with their phones. I ignored them and walked towards the main door. Countless eyes were fixed on my back. I heard someone scoff loudly: “What good is great skill if you’re just a stray dog fed by the Sterling family?” As soon as I stepped out, Sterling Antiques employees began to whisper, some snickering: “Look, that’s her! The once highly sought-after Professor Sterling, she’s in real trouble now, tsk tsk.” “I heard she stole artifacts from the company and was stripped and kicked out!” “Ungrateful wretch, she deserves it! She really thought she was something special. Let’s see who recognizes her once she leaves Sterling Antiques?” Before the words fully faded. Serena Hayes rushed forward, shouting loudly for all to hear: “This woman has always been scheming, trying to seduce my fiancé! I caught her red-handed!” “What’s worse, she stole confidential data from Sterling Antiques, attempting to sell it to other auction houses! Now with undeniable evidence, everyone, judge for yourselves!” A low murmur immediately spread through the crowd, some pointing fingers at me. “What’s going on? How could she do something like this?” “Sterling Antiques treated her well, but she turned her back on them and even dared to bite the hand that fed her?”

Reporters swarmed in. I coldly observed the gathered crowd, my voice hoarse: “Believe what you want. I did nothing wrong. The truth will come out eventually.” As soon as the words left my lips, a cup of scalding hot coffee was instantly poured over my head. My body involuntarily trembled, and I nearly slipped to the ground. “Stella Sterling, how dare you pretend to be innocent here!” Amber Evans held up her phone, live-streaming, the camera shoved directly into my face: “Stella Sterling, don’t you feel any shame? You seduced Mr. Sterling for money, and even stole Serena’s hard-earned latest research!” Her live stream chat was flooded with comments like “slut” and “get out of Sterling Antiques.” Before I could react, a male reporter next to me swung his tripod, hitting my forehead. A wave of dizziness washed over me. “Stella Sterling, people like you should be expelled from the restoration industry!” “No integrity! Still dreaming of Julian Sterling? He doesn’t even want you, wake up!” “Plagiarist, deceiver, someone who climbed by using men!” In an instant, all the curses rained down on me. The ridiculous part was that among these people was an intern I had mentored. She cried theatrically into the camera: “Professor Sterling, she made me forge restoration documents before. She said she’d ruin my future if I didn’t comply…” My secretary, whom I had saved from being laid off during company cuts, also clenched her fists and shouted: “How can someone with such bad character be called a master? She doesn’t deserve to work anywhere!” On the live stream, someone had mass-sent a photo of Julian Sterling and me attending an international exhibition, with headlines like “How Stella Sterling Seduced Mr. Sterling and Rose to High Society?” My shoes were lost in the crushing crowd, and I stood barefoot in the rain, utterly humiliated. Yet, my mind was terrifyingly clear. When Amber Evans first started, her family faced a sudden crisis. I personally sponsored her tuition and living expenses, and I taught her every word of those professional papers myself. The intern tearfully accusing me? I rushed to be with her at 3 AM to care for her until dawn. I used to believe kindness would always be rewarded, but I never imagined today it would become the very knife stabbing me. Amber Evans leaned in close, a vicious sneer on her lips: “Stella Sterling, all those artifacts you worked so hard to restore, in the end, only Serena Hayes’s name was on them. Your hard work only brought others fame and success. What’s left to hold onto?” My gaze was vacant as I stared at Sterling Antiques Tower. Through the revolving doors, Julian Sterling’s expression was utterly devoid of emotion. I stood numbly, letting the onlookers shove their live-stream cameras into my face. Suddenly, from behind the crowd, came the screech of tires. A Rolls-Royce sped through the heavy rain, pulling to a halt right in front of me. A middle-aged man quickly got out, removed his sunglasses, and bowed: “Excuse me, are you Ms. Stella Sterling?” “My boss wishes to speak with you.” I stood barefoot on the pavement as the crowd’s chatter died instantly, everyone staring dumbfounded at the car, unable to believe their eyes. Serena Hayes blocked my path, her face twisted.

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Four years ago, I messed with a man. When things were incredibly sweet between us, we’d been intimate. But then, in a blink, I took money from the campus belle. I made sure the campus belle ended up by his side, taking my place. Then, I vanished without a trace. Later, they became the perfect couple, like something out of a fairy tale. And I? I was just there to play the part of a paid companion for clients at their party, helping them with their drinks. Liam grabbed my wrist, his eyes dark and deep. “Chloe, don’t you have anything to say?” I glanced at the campus belle, then smiled, pulling my hand away. “I wish you happiness.” His face just shattered, a look of near madness in his eyes. Four years after leaving him, I ran into him again, completely out of the blue. This business gala was packed with the biggest names in the city’s elite circles. I was there as a paid companion for a wealthy client; the tips were good. I even ran into a few old classmates. My old classmates were so stunned, they could barely keep up their conversations with others. They kept sneaking glances at me. They wanted to see my expression, and Liam’s, practically itching to pull out their phones and record this classic, dramatic scene. After all, to outsiders, Liam and Scarlett, the campus belle, had fallen in love overnight four years ago, while I, his girlfriend, had vanished heartbroken. Now, here I was, attending an event with some powerful CEO. Such a messy, drama-filled plot. Everyone loves a good train wreck, right? I kept my head down. Staring at the floor, it was funny, but I could tell exactly where Liam was just by looking at their shoes. Liam’s legs were still the same as before. Straight and long. I remember one time, we broke curfew for a date, decided to hike up a mountain to watch the sunrise. I fell asleep on the mountaintop, missed the sunrise, but ended up sleeping for a whole day, hugging his legs. I complained sweetly that he hadn’t woken me. But Liam just held me and said, “Silly girl, if you want to see the sunrise, I’ll carry you here. Are you worried the sun won’t rise tomorrow?” All these years, I’ve just had to look up to see the sun. But when I turned around, my Liam was gone. Four years. Does he treat Scarlett the same way now? It was Scarlett’s voice, the campus belle from back then. She said, “I’m getting married soon. I can’t believe I ran into you here. You have to come!” Mr. Anderson, my client who knew nothing, burst out laughing beside me.

My head was bowed so low, my neck felt stiff. Mr. Anderson thought Scarlett’s words were meant for him. As if remembering something, he couldn’t help but say, “Back then, Mr. Hayes was so crazy about his ex-girlfriend, I honestly thought he’d sworn off dating for good. Can’t believe you finally managed to reel him in.” “Oh, I heard at the time that Mr. Hayes was even spreading rumors, swearing he’d find her and deal with her himself. You really are something, Scarlett, to have captured such a deep romantic.” Scarlett awkwardly cleared her throat. But I was startled, and my head shot up. The air went quiet for a moment. Then my head dropped back down. “Who is she to you?” Liam’s voice, dark and cold, asked Mr. Anderson beside him. Mr. Anderson replied carelessly. “…Does Mr. Hayes know her? She’s just someone convenient to bring to these kinds of events, you know.” “Chloe, say hello to them.” My classmates’ strange stares. Scarlett’s disbelief. Liam’s even colder expression. A wave of indescribable shame rose from my heart. I cleared my throat, stammering, “I… I don’t feel well. My stomach hurts. I’m going to leave first.” The moment I turned, my wrist was tightly gripped. Liam, who had been relatively calm until then, finally showed a crack in his composure. “Chloe, don’t you have anything to say to me?” I glanced at Scarlett, then pulled his hand away. “I wish you happiness.” Liam’s face instantly shattered, his eyes tinged with crimson. The atmosphere grew tense. A classmate, who used to be close with me, quickly stepped in front of Liam. “Alright… alright, look at the venue we’re in. Chloe isn’t feeling well, I’ll take her to the hospital.” My classmate offered me an out. I quickly left with her. Behind me, I could still faintly hear Liam and Mr. Anderson’s voices. “Mr. Hayes, do you really know her?” “Yeah, my girlfriend.” Almost everyone around gasped.

Going to the hospital was just an excuse. My classmate, Maya, saw how quiet I was, so she took me to a bar. She ordered several bottles of liquor, telling me to drink as much as I wanted, whatever made me happy. She promised not to ask about where I’d been all these years. After a few rounds. I was hugging the bottle, laughing傻傻的 (giddily). Then the laughter turned to tears. Maya looked at me, stroking my face. “Chloe, you’ve changed so much. Don’t drink anymore.” “Don’t you have anything to say to him? After all, he was the one who wronged you first.” I looked at her. In outsiders’ eyes, Liam betrayed me, having a one-night stand with the campus belle, and I disappeared heartbroken. In reality, it was much more complicated. I took the campus belle’s money, conspired with Scarlett, and lied to Liam, making him believe it wasn’t me he’d slept with, but Scarlett. I, in a way, helped an outsider force him, force him to marry Scarlett. I was unforgivable. Now that he was getting married, it was my own fault. Now that I was reduced to being a paid companion for others, that was also my own fault. Suddenly, I moved, and Maya gasped, standing up. But I still didn’t register it, just hugged the bottle and laughed. “Say? There’s nothing to say.” “There’s nothing to ask either. Ask him if he still loves me? If he says yes, then what about Scarlett?” “If he says he doesn’t love me anymore, that he’s forgotten, what would I have left to hold onto? What would I do then… I can’t ask, I can’t bring myself to ask…” “This is fine. Being strangers from now on is fine…” I shook my head, heartbroken. The alcohol went to my head, and I nearly toppled onto the bar counter. Suddenly, a warm palm blocked my forehead, protecting my head. I felt someone pick me up from behind. I vaguely heard Liam’s voice. “How much did she drink?” “A bottle… I think.” Liam chuckled softly. “Still a total lightweight, just like before.”

I had a dream, a very long dream. I dreamed I was back in my freshman year. Back then, my dad was still alive, and our family was comfortably middle-class. Liam was the golden boy of our university, heir to a massive fortune. Even though he was as cool and aloof as an ice prince, countless fangirls still followed him everywhere. When he was in class, you could bet his fangirls were waiting by the door. But back then, everyone said the campus belle and he were the perfect match. Both from wealthy families, having known each other since childhood – it would be a waste if they didn’t have a childhood sweethearts romance. I just ran my mouth off in the dorm one night. “Tch, what kind of man is Liam? If I were him, with so many gorgeous girls chasing me, I’d give every single one of them a home. I’d be doing myself a disservice not to.” “So many beautiful girls following him, tsk tsk tsk, and he still hasn’t picked anyone? Let me guess, he must be gay! Hehehehe…” It was just dorm room chatter before bed, but the next day, it spread like wildfire. Liam caught me directly after class. I was a little scared, so I told him, “I didn’t mean it. It’s all your fault for being too handsome. I like you too, I just wanted to get your attention.” “If you dare to hum right now, it means you like me. Hmm~ Now you don’t want to talk, do you?” “Okay okay, I’m leaving now, bye-bye.” I hadn’t even lifted my foot. But then, Liam blocked my path. That usually cold, handsome face now held a smile in his eyes, and he hooked his lips. “Hmm~” “I hummed. So I’m your boyfriend now. Come have dinner with me.” I was stunned. Like, how did I just randomly snag myself a rich, hot boyfriend? Who’s luckier than me? The more time we spent together, the more I felt like I’d hit the jackpot.

Liam, besides doting on me and loving me, just doted on me even more and loved me even more. I fell completely head over heels for him. Back then, Liam always said I was his fireworks. That in his endless darkness, I was the dazzling fireworks that made his life colorful. I slowly opened my eyes, my eyelids feeling damp. But fireworks are always just a fleeting display in someone’s life. I looked around at the unfamiliar surroundings, still confused. Then someone knocked on the door. I cleared my throat. “Come in.” Slowly, a guy walked in. His face was about sixty percent similar to Liam’s. The last time I saw him, he was sixteen. Four years later, he looked just like his brother. Always had that grumpy face. “Long time no see. Where is this place? And where’s my bag?” “This is my place, of course. My brother looked after you all night and just stepped out. You wake up and want to leave already? Is that fair to him?” I lowered my gaze, forcing a smile. “Caleb, your brother’s getting married, do you understand that?” Caleb froze, then his brows furrowed. “Married? What are you talking about?” I was stunned, my mind a complete mess. “Scarlett isn’t marrying your brother?” Caleb paused, then said, “If I told you my brother was never with Scarlett, would you stay?” I stood up, starting to look for my phone, muttering a quiet “I’m sorry.” There was no going back. I didn’t have the nerve. Caleb watched my actions, his face slowly turning cold. “My brother risked everything to refuse that marriage back then. Sister Scarlett later said your family took her money, that you helped Sister Scarlett deceive us.” “My brother was so good to you, and even after all that, you’re still unwilling? My brother should be the one who hates you the most, so what right do you have to put on airs and make my brother beg you to come back?” “Chloe, you’re truly cruel.” Tears streamed down my face. I bowed to Caleb, saying with utmost seriousness, “I’m sorry.” “You…!” Caleb was furious, clearly, after all he’d said, he hadn’t come to hear me say sorry.

The door was knocked again. I looked over. Liam’s tall frame was leaning against the doorframe, his face pale and drawn, looking a little worn. Who knew how long he’d been listening? He coughed, then said to Caleb, “If she wants to go, let her.” I lowered my gaze, the hand holding my phone suddenly feeling weak. I took a step, slowly walking past him, my head down. I heard him sigh deeply, and then he pulled my hand. Liam tried to keep his emotions in check. “Chloe, I can…” Tears fell uncontrollably. I smiled at him. “Liam, we can’t go back.” “I conspired with outsiders and lied to you. No matter what my reasons were, I don’t have the face to face you.” “Let’s just leave it like this. It’s my fault, I’m sorry.” This matter would forever be a thorn in both our hearts. I didn’t want to force us back together, only for him to bring it up in an argument someday, calling me bad, evil, or cruel. I was afraid I really wouldn’t be able to bear it. Liam didn’t say anything more. I wiped my tears and walked out. Determined. … At the care facility, I immediately prepared to pay with my debit card. The nurse checked the account and said, “Someone came today and paid off all three of your overdue installments at once.” I froze. Who could it be? The nurse then handed me a file. “This is from the doctor. Although your depression has fully recovered, you still need to come back for regular check-ups.” “Now your mother’s condition in the hospital is stable, isn’t she much better than before? Just like the doctor said, if you smile, maybe fate won’t be so unkind to you.” The nurse teased me. I looked at the check-up report and couldn’t help but curve my lips into a smile, thanking her. Then I went to my mom’s room. Mom was sitting in her wheelchair. She was much better this time, even remembering me. She smiled and waved at me, asking for candy. I took out a milk candy from my pocket and gave it to her.

Mom was like a child, happily eating it. I knelt beside her, tidying her hair. “Eat slowly, I have more.” “Mm-hmm, Chloe, I want more, I want more! It’s so yummy!” My eyes stung, and I nodded. Four years ago, my dad’s project had an accident. Overnight, we were saddled with millions in debt. He couldn’t bear it and jumped from a building. Mom started working hard to pay off the debt, but no matter how much she earned, she couldn’t even make a dent in the mountain of debt. At that time, Liam and I had just gone public. His grandfather still looked down on my background. Just as I was agonizing over whether to seek Liam’s help. My mom had already taken Scarlett’s money. That’s when everything shattered, setting us on an irreversible path. I rubbed my eyes, pulling at my lips in a bitter smile, as if talking to myself. “Mom, I didn’t let Liam talk about getting back together.” “I’m so bad, and he’s so good. It was clearly all my fault, so how could he, the victim, be the one begging?” “But Mom, I truly, truly, truly love him so much. If there’s a next life.” “Mom, can you please let me be with him properly for a lifetime, forever and ever, never apart?” I was lost in my own emotions. Only when someone spoke from behind me did I belatedly turn around. Scarlett was still wearing white, just like before. She held out a debit card to me, smiling, and cut straight to the chase. “Chloe, long time no see. You really won, are you happy?”

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In my last life, our family adopted a little girl, Skylar, and from that moment on, our luck took a wild turn for the better. Our old, rundown house suddenly hit the jackpot in a new redevelopment boom. Our little diner became an overnight sensation, exploding into a nationwide chain. Even the random lottery tickets we bought hit a cool million dollars. My parents swore it was all Skylar’s doing. But the better our family fared, the worse they treated me. I worked my ass off, silently counting down the days until college entrance exams, hoping to change my fate. Instead, a homeless person murdered me on the very day of the test, while my sister got into a top-tier university. Turns out, Skylar was a transmigrator, armed with a ‘plunder system.’ The more miserable I was, the better her luck. When I opened my eyes again, I was back, one day before the exams. 0 “Greetings, Host. I am System 009.” A cold, mechanical voice echoed in my ear. After rebirth, I’d bound myself to a ‘Malice Rebound System.’ Endure malice, gain points, and I could buy anything I needed from the shop. It was the day before my college entrance exams, and I stared at my scrawny body, my hands trembling just to pick up a pen. With this kind of stamina, how was I going to survive the test tomorrow? I wasted no time. I immediately went looking for my mom and Skylar, the two people who harbored infinite malice toward me. Skylar was the transmigrator. She’d steadily stolen all my luck just by bullying and tormenting me. This time, it was her turn to pay. I waited for them in front of the opulent mansion. My mom, egged on by Skylar, went to a private club every day at 3 PM, claiming it was for “charity.” But that private club was a front for some seriously shady dealings, and Skylar was neck-deep in their money laundering schemes. Mainly, it was about fulfilling her transmigration mission, right? Why else would she dabble in scams and illegal schemes instead of living like a queen? A short while later, a Maybach zoomed down the driveway. I steeled my resolve and just lay down in front of the gate. The driver slammed on the brakes, startling everyone inside. My mom shrieked, “What the hell are you doing?! If you don’t want this job, get lost!” The driver stammered, his voice meek, “Sorry, ma’am, there’s someone lying in front of the gate.” Skylar’s lazy voice drifted out, laced with an arrogant indifference. “So what if you hit trash like that? It’s just a matter of paying them off.” Mom fawned over her, chiming in, “My sweet daughter is right.” She then yelled at the driver, “Didn’t you hear Miss Skylar?!” “Go see what’s going on!” The driver got out and approached me. He didn’t recognize my grimy face at first. Just as he was about to kick me out of the way, I swiftly latched onto his leg and wailed, “Sir, it’s me, Willow!” The driver looked closely at my face. “It really is Miss Willow!” “Miss Willow? What are you talking about?!” My mom flew into a rage. “Don’t you dare spout nonsense! We only have one daughter in this house, and she’s sitting in the car!” She quickly turned to appease Skylar, “Honey, Mom only has you. These servants don’t know any better, don’t take it to heart.” When Skylar heard it was me, she didn’t get angry. Instead, she stepped out of the car, looking oddly intrigued. I knew it. She would never pass up a chance to humiliate me. 0

“You’re still breathing?” She stood before my dirt-covered self, looking like a princess. “Some people’s lives are just worthless.” Mom, fussing, held an umbrella over Skylar’s head, soothing her repeatedly, “Darling, what if you get sunburnt? Why waste your breath on trash like this?” I carefully looked at the face I hadn’t seen in a year. My mom, meanwhile, wouldn’t even spare me a glance. When I was little, I was the cherished child. Until my mom brought home a new sister. She told me, “You’re an older sister now, you have to take good care of your little sister.” I was genuinely happy. I wouldn’t be alone anymore. I never imagined it would be the beginning of my nightmare. After Skylar arrived, our family miraculously started to thrive, undergoing a drastic transformation. My parents said it was all thanks to Skylar. At first, when Skylar took my favorite clothes and my most beloved toys, I’d cry and run to Mom to complain. But Mom would scold me, “You selfish thing! What’s wrong with giving these things to your sister?!” Later, Skylar declared I was an inferior person, and my parents demanded I live with the dog. I shared a bowl with the dog, eating the scraps they threw our way. When Skylar was in a bad mood, she’d demand Dad beat me. The man who once cherished me would take his expensive leather belt and lash me fiercely until Skylar smiled. Little me would kneel on the ground, in agonizing pain, but I dared not cry out. Because if I did, Skylar would be unhappy. And if she was unhappy, Mom and Dad would be unhappy. I endured such humiliation, desperately awaiting the college entrance exams to change my fate. And Skylar, she even stripped me of that chance. Thinking of this, I dusted myself off and stood before her, then slapped her. “Too lazy to listen to your garbage, bitch!” 0

My actions were so sudden, everyone was stunned. Looking at her face, I really couldn’t think of anything else to say. Even though I was skin and bones, I put all my strength into that slap, jumping up to deliver it. Her face immediately swelled red. Skylar’s usual haughty composure vanished, replaced by a shrill, shrew-like scream. “You little whore! How dare you hit me!” She’d never been hit in her entire life. Forgetting all dignity, she lunged at me, throwing a punch. I hadn’t dodged, initially intending to just take the hit. But then I remembered, not only would it not harm me, but 009 would send a points notification. “Received malicious attack +10 points.” Oh, how smart 009 was! What did I have to worry about now? I went crazy, grabbing a stone from the ground and throwing it at her, along with handfuls of dirty mud. In no time, she transformed from an elegant beauty into a disheveled mess. I sighed internally. What a pity. Next time, I’d have to bring a bucket of literal shit. Things took a turn so fast that only then did Mom realize what was happening. She spun around, glaring at me furiously. “You little bastard! How dare you touch our Skylar!” She yelled at the driver, “What are you standing there for?! Go beat her up!” “Try it if you dare!” I held up my phone, pointing it at the driver. “If you touch me, I’ll call the cops and have you arrested!” “They’re my family, but you’re not! Think carefully before you act!” The driver hesitated, unsure, after hearing my words. My mom couldn’t stand it. “You little brat! Then I’ll teach you a lesson myself! To show you what respect for your elders means!” I swiftly dodged the slap Mom aimed at my face. If you don’t play fair, don’t blame me for being ruthless. Not making money off you would be an absolute crime! 0

I pretended to be beaten, wailing dramatically. In reality, their punches and kicks dissolved into nothing on my body, mitigated by 009, feeling like a gentle breeze. Not only did I suffer no harm, but I also gained a ton of points. But the acting had to be convincing. Skylar was usually brainless, only good at bullying me to steal my luck. My mom was too busy protecting her adopted golden daughter, terrified of her suffering any setback. Neither of them noticed anything off about me. They even got tired from hitting me. Skylar, remembering my luck was gone and I was practically dead meat tomorrow, sneered, “Low-class trash, let’s see how you die tomorrow!” 009’s pleasant voice chimed again: “Received malicious threat +5 points.” Who knew? Even being threatened gave me points! I quickly retorted, “Even if I die, I’ll come back for you. After all, you’re my sister, aren’t you, my dear sister!” Passive aggression was the best way to deal with a basic bitch like her. Perfect! I must have a lot of points now. I quickly called up the system. “009, quick! How many points do I have?” “Current points: 135.” I waited for them to be distracted, then grabbed a stone, ran to the car, smashed the windows, and dragged it along the side, leaving massive scratches. “Disgusting, aren’t I?!” Naturally, I was rewarded with a torrent of insults from my mom and Skylar. I put in my earbuds. Let this malicious world come at me even harder! 0

Even though the security guards eventually dragged me away, that little venture was quite profitable. “009, open the shop for me.” The system shop was dazzling, but the prices were highway robbery. A small stamina booster cost a whopping 50 points. To safely get through my exams tomorrow, I had no choice but to buy the stamina booster first. But then I thought of that homeless person, and I gritted my teeth, buying ‘Evil Repellent Spray.’ My heart ached at the remaining points. In my last life, that homeless person was like an NPC on a quest, coming at me for no reason and killing me. I figured it was most likely because Skylar had stolen all my luck, leading to such a consequence. Walking around with zero luck, the probability of being killed was incredibly high. After drinking the stamina booster, a surge of power coursed through my body, spreading to my limbs. This booster not only improved my physical fitness but also sharpened my mind! Right now, I could run half a mile without breaking a sweat. The next morning, I was fully prepared for the exams. I remembered how, in my last life, I had foolishly sent my mom a text message, just begging her to come see me. “Mom, tomorrow’s my exam. Could you possibly come see me?” All I got back was, “No matter what you do, you’ll never compare to Skylar. You’re destined to be low-class trash.” She probably forgot I was her flesh and blood. Did they really think they were so superior? This time, I’d show her what I was truly capable of. On the way, I saw that homeless person again. Just as they lunged at me, I sprayed them with the repellent, and without waiting to see their reaction, I quickly ran off. I ran, glancing back, and saw they weren’t hurt. They just stood there, dazed, staring in the direction I’d gone. Finally, I got a clear look at their face. It wasn’t a man; it was a woman! A wave of shock and horror washed over me. That face… it was identical to Skylar’s! 0 Only after entering the exam hall did I realize that Skylar was in the same testing room as me this year. She looked utterly shocked when she saw me walk in. She haughtily walked up to me and spoke, “You’re still alive?”

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Julian always said his love was eternal, a vow meant to last until death. So when another girl and I fell into the water, he chose to save her first. By the time they pulled me out, I was almost gone. Later, someone sent me flowers, and he completely lost it in front of me. What? Didn’t he say he didn’t love me anymore? Why is he now on his knees, tearing up, like his heart’s been ripped out? The moment I saw Julian, I couldn’t stop myself from following him. I just told myself: *Just one look, Chloe. See what his new girlfriend looks like.* “Julian, your new lady is stunning!” I followed the speaker’s gaze and spotted a girl among a crowd of men in tailored suits. Her long hair cascaded down her back, and her fair skin glowed. A form-fitting, dusty rose long dress highlighted her elegant, almost regal, demeanor. Julian offered a reserved smile, silently acknowledging her as his girlfriend. Memories surged through my mind like a restless tide, and in the next second, our eyes locked. The moment his gaze met mine, my heart clenched. Those eyes, once so tender they could drown me in their depths, were now distant, indifferent. Under the sunlight, Julian’s handsome face seemed to radiate a chill. He exchanged a few polite words with those around him, then started walking towards me. “What are you doing here?” Julian’s voice always had a deep, calm quality, but this time, his question carried an edge of impatience. Right. What was I even doing here? I just wanted a quick peek, then I was supposed to leave. I wanted to ask him why he’d found a new girlfriend the very next day after we broke up. Didn’t I deserve an explanation? But the words caught in my throat, my eyes burned with tears, and my voice felt like it was ripping apart. I didn’t know why. Just a week ago, we were madly in love, and now we were strangers. Seeing me like this, Julian, usually the most patient person, completely lost his composure. He turned his face away, frowning. “I hate it when women cry, and I can’t stand it when they cling. Go home. I don’t want my fiancée to see you.” I snapped my head up. The word “fiancée” hit me like a hammer, shattering my last line of defense. “You had a fiancée all along? What was I, then? Your mistress? Your dirty little secret?” Over his shoulder, I saw Julian’s fiancée walking toward us, the warm sunlight glinting off the ring on her ring finger. I looked down at Julian’s ring finger—sure enough, an identical ring. Before the tears could fall, I quickly turned away, trying my best to walk calmly and with dignity. I touched the ring on my left ring finger, the one Julian had given me almost a year ago. It was easy to put on, but impossible to take off, as if it had grown into my flesh. Removing it now would tear me apart. I walked, wiping away tears, and then threw that ring into the grass by the roadside. “He’s just a guy. I’ll find another one. It’s not like I can’t live without him,” I muttered to myself, trying to console my shattered heart, but the overwhelming tears wouldn’t stop. There was no bus stop near this club, and the wind on the road quickly dried my face. A car slowly pulled up beside me. It was Julian’s driver. “Miss Chloe, Mr. Julian asked me to pick you up and take you somewhere. He said he has the answers you’re looking for.” More like a final farewell than an answer.

“You shouldn’t have come looking for me today.” Julian’s voice was clean and low, yet it carried a chilling edge—the kind of coldness reserved for women he was done with. We sat across from each other, a table separating us. But it wasn’t just a table; it was a chasm of class. Julian came from a powerful, old-money family, deeply entrenched in politics and business. The only reason I, a grad student at a prestigious university, even knew a man from such an elite background was because I’d worked so hard to get where I was. I thought my excellent grades and looks made me special to him. After all, he’d been so good to me this past year. That ring was the best proof. But I’d overestimated myself. A man giving you a ring doesn’t mean anything. I looked at him with a hint of mockery. “Does your fiancée know you’ve been dating me all this time?” I pushed. “I’m really curious, Julian. When you bought me that ring and made all those promises, did you ever think about how you’d explain it away today?” My eyes were still red, and I tried to keep my voice steady. “May the deceitful choke on a thousand thorns!” If he’d had a fiancée all along, then this entire year—our dates, our hugs, our kisses, our passionate nights—they were all just a sordid affair? Julian’s gaze involuntarily darkened, and he simply mumbled, “I’m sorry.” “You suddenly disappeared because you were afraid I’d cling to you, right? You shouldn’t underestimate me, and you certainly shouldn’t overestimate yourself. I just needed a formal breakup. There’s no need to imagine me as some desperate woman clinging to you.” I fought hard to hold back the tears. If even one fell now, I’d truly be defeated. Just then, a little girl selling flowers came by with a basket full of roses. “Mister, buy a flower for your girlfriend! She looks like she’s about to cry.” Julian’s distant gaze flickered slightly, and he finally uttered, “She’s not my girlfriend.” The little flower girl shook her head, not believing him. Her voice was soft. “You’re lying! Last time you two were here, you bought a whole basket of flowers from me for this lady! You guys must have had a fight, right?” She continued, “My mom says lovers should learn to apologize.” Last summer, Julian had indeed bought a bouquet from that little girl and given it to me. At the time, it felt like nothing special, but today, it felt like a sharp blade piercing my heart. The flower girl left. Before Julian walked away, he took a call. His voice wasn’t too loud or too soft; I could hear it perfectly. His fiancée was playfully whining on the phone. “Julian, when you come home, remember to buy me flowers. You promised that no matter how much we fought, you’d always be the one to apologize and comfort me.” “Okay, I’ll apologize first and comfort you. Are tulips okay?” Julian’s tone was so gentle. Even during our sweetest moments, he had never spoken to me with such tenderness. I momentarily zoned out, then caught my reflection in the store’s decorative mirror behind him. My face was filled with pure envy. I looked just like a discarded doll, still longing to be picked up by its owner. I instantly pulled my gaze from his phone, trying to keep my face calm and my dignity intact. It wasn’t until he was gone that I realized my face was completely soaked with tears. Before Julian left, I, as if possessed, asked, “You don’t want me anymore, do you?” He was in a hurry to go buy flowers for his fiancée and simply dropped, “Yes, I don’t,” before walking away.

My story with Julian began last summer. Julian was three years older than me. My cat, Pumpkin, had snuck into his car. Julian was resting with his eyes closed inside. His features were exquisite, yet not effeminate. Every line of his eyes and brows exuded an air of good breeding and upbringing. When I found Pumpkin, she was comfortably curled up in his arms, acting like a shameless, flirty cat utterly charmed by a handsome face. We connected because of the cat and exchanged contact information. Every step of our beginning was initiated by him. That year, a typhoon hit, and the authorities warned citizens to stay indoors. Unfortunately, I got appendicitis and was in agonizing pain. Julian was at a conference in another city at the time. I don’t know how he managed to rush back. Dark clouds hung low over the city, and the rain poured relentlessly. Julian drove through flooded streets, his car splashing through one pool of water after another. At one point, his car skidded and crashed into a roadside barrier. When I woke up after surgery, Julian was asleep on the hospital bed next to mine, half his face buried in the pillow, the other half exposed. He slept soundly. He was tall, and only half of him fit on the bed. His white shirt stretched taut across his broad shoulders, and his belt cinched his waist, making his legs look incredibly long. I was lost in admiration when he suddenly opened his eyes, propped himself up from the bed, and asked in a hoarse voice, “You’re awake.” “Thank you,” I said, blushing. I vaguely remembered calling him when the pain was unbearable last night. Afterward, to show my gratitude, I invited him to my apartment for dinner. My parents had rented this apartment for me after I got into grad school. Our family was comfortable, solidly middle-class, but we were still far behind the wealthy families in Silverwood City. Our relationship was always in an ambiguous stage; it never progressed further. So, I thought it was time for me to take the first step. One day, as we were walking home after buying groceries, a drunkard was banging on my door. I recognized him: Blake, a senior from my grad program who had been relentlessly pursuing me. I had a terrible impression of him, and I had no idea how he’d gotten my address. Blake glanced at me, then at Julian beside me, sizing him up from head to toe. He immediately sneered, “No wonder you rejected me. You found yourself a rich playboy. Women really are materialistic, aren’t they? How much did he pay you to sleep with him?” I was furious, but Julian remained calm. He comforted me, telling me to go inside and he’d handle things out here. I slipped into my apartment, leaving the door slightly ajar. I watched as the previously gentle and well-mannered Julian kicked Blake straight into the fire escape, followed by Blake’s screams. After that, Blake never called the police. Instead, the apartment building suddenly had more security guards, and the property manager called me several times to check in, saying someone had specifically requested it. Julian and I were comfortable together, but we never defined our relationship. Perhaps we both enjoyed the ambiguity, testing the waters, waiting for one of us to make the first move. One rainy evening, Julian came over for dinner as usual. I had a little red wine, and feeling playful, I played a violin piece. Then I intentionally hit a wrong note. I looked at him with a mischievous glint in my eyes. “What do I do? I messed up.” Julian sat on the couch, legs splayed, arms crossed. After a low chuckle, he stood up and pulled me into a hug. “It’s okay. I like you. I like you even when you mess up.” Our relationship finally clicked open because of a single wrong note on the violin. I officially became Julian’s girlfriend. From that day on, we finally acted like a normal couple, sharing hugs, kisses, and intimate moments deep into the night. …But the dream ended too quickly. Julian was going to marry someone else. Just as I was lost in thought, a car swerved and hit me. The driver was a girl. “Oh my God, I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to! Are you okay? You’re not going to die, are you? W-what am I going to do? I don’t want to go to jail! I’m getting married! My kids will have a criminal record… ” I felt like she was crying more than I was. “I’m not going to die. I think it’s just a broken bone,” I sighed inwardly. I was actually comforting *her*. The girl was still panicked. She made a quick call to someone she knew, her voice choked with tears. “Julian, I hit someone…” My heart sank. *No way. It can’t be that much of a coincidence.* I looked closely at the girl’s face, then at the engagement ring on her hand. It was the same girl I’d seen at the club.

Julian and his fiancée, Stella, ended up taking me to the hospital. Julian and I, by unspoken agreement, pretended not to know each other. At the hospital, Stella was incredibly concerned about me. From her demeanor and cheerful personality, it was clear she came from a privileged background, a truly sheltered princess. The car she drove was worth a fortune. She and Julian were clearly a perfect match, a union of two prominent families. “Turns out we go to the same university! That’s great! I’ll pick you up for classes while you’re recovering.” Stella’s voice was genuinely caring. A bitter feeling welled up inside me. If Julian’s fiancée had been some demanding, unreasonable woman, I could at least tell myself he deserved whatever bad karma he got for leaving me. But this girl was a sweet but naive beauty. *Any man would fall for her, wouldn’t they?* “No, it’s just a minor fracture. I can manage on my own.” Stella grabbed Julian’s arm and shook it gently, her voice intimately close. “Julian, please, you have to convince her! I feel so guilty, I won’t be able to sleep tonight!” Julian indulged her completely. “I know you feel guilty, but we have to respect… ” He paused imperceptibly, then continued, “Miss Chloe’s wishes.” I managed a bitter smile. “I have a boyfriend. He’ll take care of me. You don’t need to worry too much.” Stella’s guilt visibly eased. She leaned in, gossiping, “You’re so pretty, your boyfriend must be super handsome! Since we’ve met through this accident, let’s exchange SnapChat info! We can hang out sometime!” I turned my head to look at Julian. His lips slowly tightened, and his eyes held a coldness. I wanted to ask him if hearing about my boyfriend made him uncomfortable. *You have no right to question me now, Julian,* I thought. But that expression only lasted a few seconds. *Hmph, I was just imagining things. Why would he care about an ex when he has someone new?*

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I was struck down by Julian’s kept woman, leaving me paralyzed and stuck in a perpetual twilight. Julian, seemingly consumed by guilt, visited my hospital room daily to massage me. His apparent kindness moved me, and I fought against the agony, hoping to surprise him with my recovery. But one day, while feigning sleep, I overheard my attending doctor ask him: “Mr. Hayes, the muscle tissue samples from your wife are too frequent. At this rate, she’ll be permanently disabled.” Julian’s voice was cool, detached. “Tiffany’s Immortal Bloom is dying. Scarlett has longevity genes; her flesh and blood can bring the flower back to life.” Only then did the chilling truth dawn on me. His gentle massages weren’t acts of care. They were him, meticulously carving off the freshest flesh from my numb legs, slice by agonizing slice. But he didn’t know. The secret to my longevity was this: my blood carried a deadly poison. I lay in the hospital bed, tubes snaking into my body, every breath feeling like a dull blade scraping my throat. After the car crash, Dr. Reed said my spinal cord was damaged. The paralysis was temporary, and with consistent physical therapy, I might walk again. But Julian didn’t care about any of that. He sat by my bed, gently stroking my numb legs, his voice soft, like he was comforting a child. “Scarlett, don’t be scared. The pain will be gone soon.” I tried desperately to wiggle my toes, but they were nailed to the bed, utterly motionless. Dr. Reed stood by, frowning as he flipped through my medical chart. “Mr. Hayes, she just experienced a major hemorrhage. The risk of amputation right now is too great; it could lead to…” “To her death?” Julian chuckled softly, his fingertips tracing my knee, as if measuring something. “It’s fine. I trust your medical skills.” The doctor paused, then couldn’t help but ask, “Why does it have to be now?” Julian lifted his gaze, the tenderness in his eyes vanishing instantly, replaced by cold calculation. “Tiffany’s Immortal Bloom is dying.” The Immortal Bloom. My heart lurched. That was the flowerpot I’d accidentally shattered when I walked in on him and Tiffany. He’d gripped my throat then, his words slow and deliberate. “Do you know how precious this flower is? If it dies, you’ll pay for it.” So, this was what he meant by “pay.” Using my flesh and blood to nurture a flower Tiffany had cultivated! “Don’t worry. As soon as the flower comes back to life, I’ll bring her home.” He leaned in, whispering into my ear as if sharing a secret endearment, “Be a good girl, Scarlett. Just bear with it a little longer.” I struggled to open my mouth, wanting to scream, to ask him why he was so cruel to me! But at that moment, I couldn’t even summon the strength to cry. Julian suddenly noticed my gaze and froze slightly. “Scarlett, are you awake? Do you still recognize me?” I stared at him, unable to utter a sound. A flicker of panic crossed his eyes, but he quickly put on that mask of deep affection, urging Dr. Reed to examine me. The doctor pulled open my eyelids, and a blinding white light seared into my eyes. I held my nerves taut, forcing my eyes to remain still, suppressing even the slightest twitch. Dr. Reed frowned, putting down his penlight, his voice flat. “No pupil reaction. Just physiological eye-opening. Her consciousness hasn’t returned.” Julian’s tense shoulders subtly relaxed. Then, he leaned down and pulled me into his arms. His chest pressed against mine, his heartbeat a calm rhythm, his breath warm and steady. He seemed genuinely worried. Seemed. But I knew this deep, loving embrace was laced with deadly poison. Julian held me, his voice trembling, even squeezing out a single tear. “Scarlett, Dr. Reed said your leg is deteriorating rapidly. If we don’t amputate soon, you might not even make it…” Liar! I shook my head violently, but my body felt nailed down, only managing weak tremors. He choked back a sob, his thumb gently stroking my face, as if comforting a foolish child. “Don’t be afraid. I’m here. I’ll take care of you for the rest of your life.” Then, feigning reluctance, he turned to Dr. Reed and nodded. “Go ahead.” I was forcibly wheeled into the operating room. The moment the surgical knife cut through my skin, my pain receptors felt sluggish, delayed. But I could hear. I could hear the grinding sound of the saw cutting through bone. I could hear Julian standing nearby, quietly telling the doctor. “Take the freshest segment. Tiffany’s flower can’t wait.” I lay there, eyes wide open, staring at the ceiling, remembering the first time he kissed me, when he’d smiled and said. “Scarlett, is your blood sweet? Why am I so addicted to it?” Yes, Julian. My blood is sweet. Sweet enough… to kill you.

The anesthetic washed over me like a tide, pulling me into a chaotic dream. In the dream, Julian waited for me in the rain. I ran to him, holding my umbrella, tilting it towards him on tiptoe, letting half my body get soaked. He frowned, pushing my hand away, “Don’t stand so close. Annoying, isn’t it?” That night, I had a fever of 102 degrees, but he didn’t even offer a word of concern. Later, I found out he was on endless calls with Tiffany, from late night until early morning. I always thought it was my fault, that I pushed too hard, that I wasn’t understanding enough. Only now did I realize. In his eyes, I was worth less than one of Tiffany’s flowers. … *Bang!* The hospital room door burst open, and I struggled to pull my consciousness from the swamp of anesthesia. “Tiffany, are you sure you want to be in here?” Julian’s voice was syrupy sweet, sickly cloying. “What if she suddenly wakes up?” “What’s there to be afraid of?” Tiffany chuckled softly, her footsteps nearing my bed. “Dr. Reed said she’ll be unconscious for at least three days.” The mattress dipped slightly as someone sat down. Tiffany whined playfully, “But I’m still scared, you know? The last time I hit her, there was so much blood. It was disgusting, gave me nightmares for a whole week!” My blood ran cold. Tiffany was the one who drove the car that hit me?! Julian’s tone was impatient: “Don’t bring that up.” “What, feeling sorry for her?” Tiffany snorted. “If she hadn’t suddenly rushed out, I wouldn’t have had to slam on the brakes.” “But speaking of which, the baby in her belly was incredibly stubborn. So much blood, and it still didn’t come out completely. You were the one who signed for the forced D&C in the end.” “Do you think she’ll be mad at you if she finds out?” A baby?! A bolt of lightning struck me, and my heart nearly seized. I… was pregnant? And my own husband had personally killed his own child! “What if she knows,” Julian sneered. “She loves me so much, how could she ever blame me?” Tiffany giggled. “True. By the way, we’ve tried her bedroom, her shower… We haven’t tried it right in front of her yet.” “And you said you were scared?” Julian’s breathing hitched. “She’s asleep all day anyway, she won’t know.” Tiffany’s nails scraped across my bedsheets, arousing and seductive. “Since we’re seeking thrills, let’s go all the way, shall we?” The bed frame began to shake. I bit down hard on my tongue, my soul ripped apart. One half screamed, roared, bled tears! The other half lay like a corpse, unable to even twitch an eyelash. Julian, how could you?! The agonizing pain and despair tore at my nerves, and I finally plunged back into darkness. When I woke again, Julian was sitting by the bed, peeling an apple. Seeing my eyes open, he immediately put on a surprised expression: “Scarlett? You’re finally awake!” His acting was flawless. So flawless, it made me want to vomit. I wanted to scream, to rip apart his hypocritical face, but only fragmented gasps escaped my throat. “Don’t rush, Dr. Reed said you need to recover slowly.” He gently took my hand, his thumb stroking the needle marks on my wrist. “Tiffany came to see you. She’s been feeling really guilty.” Guilty?! My pupils constricted sharply. Julian misunderstood my reaction and sighed softly. “She didn’t mean to hit you. The brakes failed that day. Can you forgive her, please?” I stared at him, wishing my gaze could morph into blades, tearing his flesh, piece by agonizing piece! But he just smiled, ruffled my hair, and then turned to the door. “Tiffany, come in.” Tiffany timidly walked in, holding a bouquet of pure white lilies. “Scarlett, I’m so sorry.” Her eyes were red-rimmed, as if she’d been crying for a long time. “I really didn’t mean to hit you.” I stared at her perfectly manicured nails. It was *those* hands that gripped the steering wheel and sent my baby flying! But Julian said, “Scarlett didn’t object, so she’s forgiven you.” The look of guilt instantly vanished from Tiffany’s face, and she smiled sweetly at him. Julian stroked her head, then turned to me. “Oh, by the way, Tiffany’s on vacation recently. How about I have her take care of you?” Take care? More like monitor me! Of course, I didn’t want that, but Julian wouldn’t even let me refuse, forcibly deciding for me. Sunlight filtered coldly through a gap in the curtains, spilling onto my pillow. There, my phone screen silently lit up. A small red dot in the top left corner pulsed, a steady rhythm in the darkness.

Julian gently tucked a strand of hair behind Tiffany’s ear. “Tiffany, Scarlett is counting on you.” Tiffany nodded obediently: “Don’t worry, Julian, I’ll take good care of Scarlett, I won’t let you worry at all.” She deliberately emphasized “take care,” then casually picked up a fruit knife from the bedside table. My back instantly tensed. Tiffany slowly, deliberately, brought the fruit knife closer. The sharp blade glinted coldly in the sunlight. “Scarlett, let me peel an apple for you. Julian said you love apples the most.” She smiled sweetly, but the knife tip tilted subtly towards me. I wanted to escape, but I was utterly trapped. The blade slid slowly along the apple skin, each movement feeling like it grazed my own flesh. “Oh, I forgot.” Tiffany suddenly stopped, feigning surprise as she covered her mouth. “Scarlett can’t eat anything right now.” She then threw the perfectly peeled apple into the trash can, right in front of me. Just then, the hospital room door opened, and a middle-aged woman in an expensive suit walked in. It was Julian’s mother, Eleanor. “Tiffany! What are you doing?!” Eleanor snatched the knife from Tiffany’s hand, then tenderly gripped her fingers. “You’re pregnant, how can you be doing such rough work?” Tiffany shyly lowered her head: “Mrs. Hayes, I’m fine. I just felt so bad seeing Scarlett like this.” Eleanor swept a disgusted glance over me. “She deserves it! Crossing the road without looking, couldn’t even keep a baby. If she dies, it’s her own fault!” So that’s it. Tiffany was pregnant, that’s why they were so tolerant of her. Julian must have written a letter of forgiveness for me, allowing her to parade around in front of me like this. But she had a child. What about me?! Who would champion my baby, forcibly scraped away from me! Eleanor affectionately embraced Tiffany. “Come on, Tiffany. Come stay at my house. This unlucky place is bad for the baby, you should come less.” Then she cast a cold glance at me. “Some people, even paralyzed, cling on desperately. If she were sensible, she’d just end it herself, instead of dragging others down.” Tiffany’s lips imperceptibly curled into a faint smile at that. Eleanor then asked, “By the way, how’s the flower you’re cultivating? Has it been saved?” Tiffany frowned, a worried expression on her face. “Not too well. Not enough fertilizer.” Her gaze meaningfully landed on me. Julian followed her line of sight and casually said, “Then just plant Hope in the flowerpot as fertilizer.” Hope?! That was the name I’d chosen for my future child! I mustered every ounce of my strength, forcing out two raspy words from my throat. “H-Hope…” Julian paused, then walked over to stroke my face, but his words sent me plummeting into an icy abyss. “Don’t worry, it’s just the placenta. It’s a waste to throw it away, so it’s perfect for the Immortal Bloom.” I tried to speak again, but those two words had drained all my energy. Tiffany feigned concern, pulling at his sleeve. “Julian, won’t Scarlett be sad?” “This is her compensation for your flower.” Julian comforted her, patting her hand, then turned to me. “Scarlett is the most understanding, right?” I glared at them, wishing I could flay that despicable pair alive. Tiffany suddenly gasped, “Oh no, I forgot to water the Immortal Bloom! It’ll wither if I’m late!” Julian followed her without hesitation, not even sparing me a glance as he left. Eleanor lingered, looking down at me from above. “See? If you have any conscience left, you’d pull out your own oxygen tube. Don’t get in the way of their happy family of three.” The moment the door closed, a single tear finally slipped from the corner of my eye. I slowly raised my trembling hand, little by little, clenching it into a fist. Julian would never know that my office windowsill was once filled with potted plants. Every single one was a gift from him. And every single one, I had secretly watered with my own blood. They would grow wildly within months, blooming into eerie flowers, only to wither, rot, and turn into a pool of putrid blood at their most vibrant moment.

Laughter occasionally drifted from the hallway, carried by the orderlies. “That paralyzed woman in Room 302, I heard her husband and his mistress are getting married, and she’s still clinging to life in the hospital.” “Her mother-in-law comes here every day to curse at her. If it were me, I’d have jumped off a building already.” Their discussions were low enough to be discreet, yet loud enough for me to hear. At noon, Tiffany pushed the door open: “Scarlett, I’m here to see you!” Her eyes were curved in a sweet smile, but right in front of me, she unplugged my oxygen tube and plugged in her phone to charge. “Oops, I forgot you needed to breathe.” She feigned surprise, but made no move to plug it back in. “Just bear with it, my phone’s only at 10%.” My chest heaved violently, and my vision swam with black spots. She, however, smiled, pulled out her tablet, and played a video. It was our wedding home. Julian had Tiffany pressed against the bed, his tie hanging loosely around his neck. “Julian, who’s better, me or Scarlett?” Tiffany’s voice in the video was soft and seductive. Julian chuckled softly, “Of course, you are.” “Then when will you make me the real Mrs. Hayes?” “What’s the rush?” His voice was full of satisfied laziness. “Once her blood is drained, I’ll marry you.” The video cut off abruptly. Tiffany tilted her head, looking at me: “Scarlett, your face looks so pale. Are you too touched?” I trembled all over, desperately pressing the call button. When Julian and Dr. Reed burst in, Tiffany suddenly shrieked, stumbling backward! “Ah! My stomach!” She clutched her abdomen, her eyes watery as she looked at Julian. “I was just so happy Scarlett could move, I wanted to help her up, but she shoved me hard!” Dr. Reed immediately rushed to check her condition, and Julian’s gaze instantly turned icy. “Scarlett!” He grabbed my throat. “You knew Tiffany was pregnant and you still pushed her!” I wanted to protest, but the lack of oxygen made breathing difficult, let alone speaking. Tiffany, hiding behind Julian, sobbed: “Scarlett, you also lost a child, how could you be so vicious…?” Julian’s face darkened further. He said coldly to me, “From today on, all your medical expenses are cut off. When you realize your mistake, then we’ll resume payments!” After they left, I clutched my throat, gasping for air. Listening to the faint beeping of the monitor, I silently made a resolution. … Three days later, Julian received a call from Dr. Reed. “Mr. Hayes, it’s terrible! Your wife, along with her leg, is completely gone!” When Julian rushed to the hospital, the entire cold storage unit was empty. Inside the cabinet where my severed leg should have been, there was only a pool of dark red blood, slowly dripping through the cracks. “How could this happen?!” At that very moment, across the city. The night wind howled as I stood on the edge of a tall building, looking down at the entire city. My phone screen lit up, Julian’s messages popping up one after another. “Scarlett, where are you?” “Stop messing around, come back!” “What happened to your leg?!” I let out a soft chuckle, my finger tapping lightly on the screen, replying: “Julian, haven’t you always wanted to know why my blood is sweet?” At the hospital. Julian furiously kicked open the door to my room, only to find the bed empty. “Where is she?!” He grabbed the night orderly by the collar. “Where is my wife?!” The orderly trembled in fear: “Ms. Evans left by herself last night. She said she was going home.”

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I was a ‘strategist,’ sent from another world. My mission? To make Serena, the second female lead of this story, fall in love with me – even though her heart already belonged to someone else. Nine years. I poured every ounce of myself into our relationship, but she never truly loved me – not for a single moment. It wasn’t until I saw her, with my own eyes, snatching away my daughter’s ransom money just to save Julian’s son first, that my heart turned to ash. Any will to live simply drained from me. I calmly accepted the System’s erasure. But why was she losing her mind, the woman who never loved me? “BOOM!” A deafening explosion ripped through the air, followed by a pillar of fire shooting skyward. My daughter’s tiny body was quickly engulfed by the inferno. “No!” I shrieked, a gut-wrenching sound tearing from my throat. When the firefighters finally pulled Lily out, there wasn’t a single piece of her skin left intact. She was a horrific sight, disfigured beyond recognition. I crumpled to the ground, large, heavy tears streaming down my face. Just moments before the kidnapper realized the police were there and detonated the bomb, Lily had been desperately screaming in his arms, “Mommy, don’t you want Lily anymore? Please, save me…!” But Serena, her own mother, remained stone-faced. She simply turned her back, scooped up Julian’s son, and walked away. My hands trembling, I fumbled for my phone and called Serena. It rang three times before she finally picked up. Before I could even speak, her impatient voice snapped, “What is it? Spit it out, I’m busy taking care of Noah.” The thought of our daughter lying dead while she coddled another man’s child ignited a firestorm of rage within me. I roared into the phone, “The kidnapper and Lily are dead! Our Lily is gone! She’s dead!” “How dare you use *my* ransom money to save Julian’s son? Are you even Lily’s mother?!” I had never spoken to Serena with such venom. The line went silent for a long moment before her voice returned. “Leo! How dare you yell at me?! I already called the police, Lily couldn’t possibly be in trouble. Don’t use such ridiculous excuses just to get me to come home!” “Now, stop wasting time and bring a bowl of chicken soup to the downtown hospital. Noah was startled, he needs something good to recover.” Then, she hung up on me. I scoffed, a bitter, self-deprecating laugh escaping my lips. My desperate pleas for her to see reason, my furious accusations – they fell on deaf ears. There was no reflection, no remorse. Anything connected to Julian and his son, and Serena would drop everything. I was a ‘strategist’ from another world, sent here to complete a mission: to make Serena, the story’s second female lead, fall in love with me. According to the original plot, she was destined to love Julian, the male lead, her entire life. Julian would marry her after returning to the country with the female lead’s child, but once the female lead came back, he’d be in for a brutal battle to win her back. Like most romance novels, the male and female leads would eventually live happily ever after. Serena, however, was fated to be hit and killed by a large truck on her way to win Julian back. I had changed the plot, marrying Serena while Julian was abroad. The System never declared my mission a success. After Lily was born, it went into a long hibernation. It wasn’t until a year ago, when Julian returned, that the long-dormant System chimed back to life. It warned me: if Serena didn’t love me by the end of this final year, I would be erased. I couldn’t help but feel how utterly I had failed. All these years, Serena had never loved me. After cremating Lily’s body alone, I cradled the urn and made my way to the hospital. I pushed open the door to find Serena fussing over Noah, meticulously wiping him down, then sitting by his bedside, peeling a pear. That tender, doting expression was something Lily and I had longed for, day and night, but never received. I walked closer, taking in Noah’s condition. Just a minor scrape. Serena turned, saw me, and her gentle demeanor vanished instantly. She shielded Noah like a protective mother bear, her eyes sharp and wary. That small gesture sent a chill, colder than any winter, through my heart. She snapped at me, “Are you deaf? I told you to bring a thermos with chicken soup. What are you doing carrying a box?” Lily’s death had drained every ounce of strength from me. I couldn’t fight anymore. I just choked out, “Serena, let’s find a burial plot for Lily together, and lay her to rest properly.” “Clang!” Serena’s hand trembled, and the small knife clattered to the floor.

Serena’s eyes widened. She took a step back, her face a mask of disbelief. Her hands shook as she reached for the urn, but the next second, she regained her composure, scoffing at me. “Leo, your tricks are getting more elaborate, even bringing props now. I can’t believe a grown man, a father even, is so childish, acting out of jealousy to this extent.” I grabbed her wrist, my voice deadly serious. “If you don’t believe me, come home with me and see for yourself if Lily is still there.” Her eyes openly conveyed disgust and contempt, as if I were nothing more than a pathetic, clingy nuisance. Julian, standing nearby, sighed. “Leo, Noah’s mother isn’t here. Serena was just being kind. You’re a grown man, you should understand, there’s no need to be so petty.” “If you’re really so bothered, you could have just told me directly. I would have convinced Serena to go home. But Lily… how could you curse your own daughter with death? She’s innocent!” His last words were undoubtedly meant to fan the flames, but Serena, to my utter despair, looked at him with eyes brimming with tenderness and gratitude. A wave of bitter envy washed over me. How I wished she would look at *me* that way. I clenched my fists, my knuckles cracking, and couldn’t help but snarl at Julian, “Stop trying to stir up trouble!” Serena’s temper flared. She shoved me with all her might. “Leo, are you done?! Julian is telling the truth! How long are you going to keep being so unreasonable?!” I stumbled backward, hitting the table behind me. The urn slipped from my grasp, and Lily’s ashes scattered across the floor. In an instant, the entire hospital room fell into a deathly silence. Serena saw the ashes on the floor, her lips moving silently a few times, but she stubbornly insisted, “You’re really committed to this act. You should become an actor.” I ignored her sarcasm. I dropped to my knees, frantically trying to scoop up the scattered ashes. Torrents of tears poured from my eyes. “Lily, I’m so sorry. Daddy messed up. Daddy didn’t hold you tight enough. Did you get hurt, my darling?” Serena had never seen me cry so miserably. A flicker of emotion finally crossed her face. She opened her mouth as if to speak. But then, Noah whined from the bed, calling out for help. Serena reacted like a reflex, rushing to him instantly. “There, there, Noah. Auntie Serena is here. Don’t be scared.” Julian stroked Noah’s head, comforting him. “Noah’s okay. Auntie Serena and Daddy already chased the bad guys away.” I watched the warm scene unfolding before me, a picture of a perfect family of three. It felt like a thousand tiny needles piercing my heart, making it impossible to breathe. Even if Serena didn’t believe Lily was dead, she hadn’t shown a single ounce of concern for our daughter. No worry about whether she was hurt. She was perfectly content doting on another man’s son. I closed my eyes, clinging to a final sliver of hope, and slowly spoke. “What if I told you… I’m dying?” Serena frowned. Julian put on a sympathetic front, cutting in before she could speak. “Serena, you should go home. I can take care of Noah by myself. It’s my fault today, I’ve affected your relationship with your husband.” He finished, then gave Noah a subtle look. Noah immediately understood, shaking Serena’s arm. “Auntie Serena, don’t leave. Noah needs you.” As expected, Serena took the bait instantly. She pointed a finger at me, unleashing a torrent of abuse. “When Julian went abroad, you took advantage of him and married me. Then you used a child to get some attention from me. Now you’re using lies to gain my sympathy.” “Leo, you are truly despicable!” Despicable? A bitter smile twisted my lips. So, that’s what she thought of me all along. “If you want to die, then go die! Bringing an urn into a hospital is just bad luck!” Her words held no trace of fondness for our relationship, only a pervasive annoyance. Tears eventually run dry, just as hope eventually crumbles away. I nodded. “I understand. I won’t bother you anymore, then.” As I closed the door, a fleeting, almost imperceptible smile crossed Julian’s lips. I had no energy to decipher its meaning. Dragging my exhausted body, I left.

I didn’t go home. I drove to the cemetery. After burying Lily, the System’s voice echoed in my mind. It sounded urgent. “Host, you have three hours until erasure. Aren’t you going to fight for it?” I shook my head, calmly accepting my fate. Unconsciously, nine years had passed since I arrived in this world. Nine years. I was so tired of living. I couldn’t count how many times Serena had pierced my heart. Last month, on our ninth wedding anniversary, she actually agreed to celebrate with me for the first time. Lily was thrilled, clapping and cheering. I was so excited I couldn’t sleep all night. The next day, I woke up early and prepared roses, candles, a necklace, and a table full of all her favorite dishes. I truly believed that our little family of three would finally have a happy meal together. But then, she suddenly received a SnapChat message about Julian having a stomachache. In a panic, she rushed out to bring him medicine. Before she left, she condescendingly tossed me a, “Happy anniversary.” As always, I swallowed my resentment. I didn’t stop her. I didn’t want to argue in front of Lily. Sensing my disappointment, Lily decisively FaceTimed Serena. She sweetly asked, “Mommy, Daddy seems a little unwell. Can you come back and keep him company?” Serena roared at her, “Did your dad tell you to say that?! You’re so young, and you’re already learning to lie and trick people with your dad!” “I don’t have time for him right now! Don’t bother me!” Lily quickly covered the microphone, afraid I’d hear and be sad. Even though her mom had just yelled at her and she felt a little wronged, she acted like a tiny adult, comforting me. “It’s okay, Daddy. Don’t be sad. Lily is here to keep Daddy company.” My eyes stung, and I fought back tears. “With Lily here, Daddy isn’t sad.” Countless incidents like this had left my heart shattered and riddled with holes. It was only Lily’s love that had kept me going. Now that Lily was gone, I truly couldn’t bear it anymore. Before I died, I FaceTimed my friend Caleb to tell him I was leaving this world. I gave him the cemetery address, asking him to bury me next to Lily. Father and daughter, side by side, neither of us alone. “I never truly belonged in this world. Leaving… isn’t it a kind of release?” “Is it because of Serena?” I didn’t confirm or deny it. He quickly understood, his voice husky with emotion. “You brat, don’t you dare forget me, even when you’re gone.” “If, and I mean *if*, Serena ever asks about me, just tell her to come to Lily’s and my grave.” The System and I had agreed: after my death, I would lose my physical body and become a wisp of a soul, able to float around Serena. Perhaps it was out of stubbornness, but I desperately wanted to know Serena’s reaction when she learned the truth. Would she repent? Would she admit her mistakes? Or would she remain indifferent, unbothered? After hanging up, I received a SnapChat message from Serena. “Where are you? Come pick me up at the hospital, now.” “I’m coming home, alright?” Her imperious tone made it sound like her willingness to return was some colossal act of grace. Out of spite, I typed out one last message: “When you get home, don’t open the closet in Lily’s room. I’m afraid you’ll regret it when you see what’s inside.” She replied quickly. “What are you rambling about? What is there for me to regret?” Serena kept messaging me, urging me to pick her up, but she never got another reply. By the time she FaceTimed me, I was already dead. That feeling of being ripped from my physical body… it was truly unbearable. I floated over to Serena. To my surprise, she hadn’t stayed at the hospital to care for Noah. She actually intended to go home. After waiting for my call to go unanswered, she reluctantly called a cab. As soon as she got in, she received a call from Lily’s school teacher. “I’m so sorry, Mrs. Serena, I know you’re busy, but Lily’s father’s phone has been unreachable, so I had no choice but to call you.” “We teachers are all very saddened by Lily’s passing. Please accept our condolences. When do you have time to come to the school to pack up her belongings?” Serena’s eyes glazed over, her mouth agape. She couldn’t utter a single word for a long moment. “Hello? Mrs. Serena, can you hear me?”

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My wife and I were getting married tomorrow. At her bachelorette party, she hugged her old flame. She said it was to leave her youth without regrets. I immediately called off the wedding. She didn’t understand and cried, asking: “We just had dinner, why are you overreacting like this?” I said: “Since you can’t let go of your youth, I wish you two a lifetime of happiness. Now, you’re free.” 01 The day before the wedding, I was triple-checking all the details. “Use only roses for the petals, absolutely no lilies or bellflowers – Olivia is allergic to those.” “Make sure there’s a spare pair of the custom insoles in the car. Olivia will be greeting guests for hours tomorrow, I’m worried her feet will hurt.” “Are the mini cupcakes ready? I heard brides barely get to eat on their wedding day, so I want her to have something while she’s getting her makeup done… They’re made with dairy cream, right? Vegetable cream is harder to digest.” … After getting affirmative responses to everything, I let out a heavy sigh of relief. I closed the door, lay down on the bed, and stared at the window with the big red “double happiness” character pasted on it, feeling both excited and nervous. I was getting married tomorrow. I wondered what Olivia was doing right now. I took out my phone and sent her a SnapChat message. She didn’t reply. While scrolling through my feed, I saw that her bridesmaid had posted a set of nine selfies. “Last night of freedom before the bestie gets hitched tomorrow! No regrets for our youth!” The first eight photos were just Olivia goofing around with her bridesmaids. I smiled, thinking she’d probably still be half asleep when I carried her out the door tomorrow morning. Then I swiped to the last photo and my world went black. It felt like someone had hit me over the head with a sledgehammer. I couldn’t breathe for a moment. It was an intimate photo of a man and woman. Olivia was leaning back, one hand propped on a table, her eyes hazy and lips parted. Less than an inch from her face was the profile of a man. He was staring at her intently, returning her passionate gaze. Their faces were so close they were practically breathing the same air, lips barely an inch apart. In the photo, the man’s hands were tightly gripping Olivia’s waist. Under the red lighting, it looked incredibly sultry. Just like a promo poster for some trashy romance drama. 02 I didn’t recognize the man, but I knew who he was. Ethan. Olivia’s first love that she had pined after for five years. From high school through college. We had shared our romantic histories before. Olivia had only vaguely mentioned having a crush on an older classmate, without going into details. So I hadn’t thought much of it, assuming it was just a fleeting infatuation from her school days. What did I care about her first love when I was the one by her side now? But this photo felt like a bullet through my chest. My heart clenched painfully. Olivia’s face slowly distorted before my eyes. My palm stung and I realized the metal edge of my phone case had cut into my skin at some point. I snapped out of my daze and looked back at the post, but it had already been deleted. I quickly called Olivia but there was no answer. I tried her bridesmaid instead. She picked up and I got straight to the point: “Where are you guys?” “We’re having dinner.” She hesitated, clearly uncomfortable. “Is something wrong?” “Give me the address.” I said. “That guy is still there, right?” Silence on the other end. Then I heard Olivia’s voice: “It’s your turn to drink! Who are you on the phone with?” “Just work stuff,” the bridesmaid said in a low voice. “I gotta go, my phone’s about to die.” “$1000,” I said. “What are you doing? What do you take me for?” “$3000, plus all the info on that guy.” “Well… you can’t say I told you.” I grunted in agreement. Soon, my phone was blowing up with notifications. 03 She had sent me Olivia’s secret Twitter account. I clicked through and saw she posted very frequently. Every meal, outing, and book she read warranted a post. And Ethan commented on every single one. Olivia: “It’s getting cold, time to knit a scarf for your loved one!” Ethan: “I got the scarf, but she’s at home so I can’t pick it up.” Olivia: “Hmph, forget it then.” It was a blue scarf – the birthday gift Olivia had given me last year. She claimed it took her two months to knit and I was so touched. I quickly dug out the scarf and sure enough, next to my name I saw some unraveled stitches. I could just make out the character for “Ethan”. And here I thought it was just due to her lack of skill. Turns out Ethan didn’t want it, so it got passed on to me. Olivia: “Made a wish at the temple today. Bless me!” Ethan: “What did you wish for? Tell me!” Olivia: “The thing you want to do most. (sticks out tongue)” Ethan: “See the stars in the Sahara Desert?” Olivia: “So smart, I’ll give you a kiss as a reward.” My mind flashed back to our third anniversary. We had gone to a temple to make wishes and hang prayer cards. I wrote that I would love the girl beside me with all my heart, asking all the gods to bear witness. She wrote: “I want to go see the stars in the Sahara Desert with the one I love.” I had invited her to go several times after that. But she always said she was too tired. Turns out it wasn’t that she didn’t want to go. I just wasn’t worthy. Is that right? 04 Valentine’s Day 202 I was stuck in a hotel due to COVID restrictions. Unable to spend the holiday with Olivia. She was mad at me for a long time. It took me a week to make it up to her. But I found her post from that day. A selfie of her and Ethan kissing in front of a mirror. The background was our bedroom. Caption: Love is always reckless. God damn it.

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