Category: English

The moment Isabelle filed for divorce, a single call was all it took for Marcus to drop everything, abandoning me to rush back to her side. I tore the pregnancy test result from my hand, walking away without a single glance back. Five years later, we ran into each other at the airport. She was clinging to his arm, a dazzling smile, an ethereal beauty. A perfect family of three. The way Marcus looked at them—it was filled with a tenderness, a devotion he had *never* once shown me. I gripped Leo’s hand, wanting to leave, but we were stopped. He looked at my son beside me, his eyes widening in a mixture of shock and something unreadable. “Where did you get a child?” In the crowded departure lounge, little Leo tugged at my sleeve, leaning in to whisper conspiratorially. “Mommy, when can I have a daddy? I really envy that little girl.” He spoke softly, gesturing towards the open hall not far away. A tall man was holding a little girl, his strong arms tossing her up repeatedly. Then catching her safely, simulating a game of flying. The little girl’s crisp laughter, like little chimes, echoed through the entire lounge. Every passerby who looked their way wore a warm, envious smile. Only I, the moment I recognized that figure, felt like I was plunged into an ice storm. Every nerve tightened, my scalp prickled with dread. One thought consumed me: *escape*. I grabbed Leo, fleeing like a criminal, but accidentally bumped into a stranger’s camera. The man roared in distress, grabbing my coat, demanding compensation.

I never imagined my next meeting with Marcus would be so utterly humiliating. I was being yanked back and forth by his grip on my collar, my hair a wild mess. Leo, frightened, hid behind me, jostled back and forth by my violent movements. His eyes red-rimmed, he timidly but bravely cried out, “Don’t bully my mommy! You’re a bad man!” The man frantically accused me of breaking his camera, spinning me around again. Just then, a warm hand suddenly clamped onto my wrist, steadying me. The man was startled by the sudden force, looking up at the person behind me. “Who are you?” He was agitated, glaring hostilely at the person beside me. From above, that familiar deep voice was as steady and cold as ever. An undeniable authority. “Bullying a woman? What kind of strength is that?” The man wouldn’t let up, ranting about how I’d shattered his camera – what a prestigious brand, such a high-end lens, how it cost ten thousand dollars. Marcus gave him a brief, dismissive look, then turned to signal Isabelle. Isabelle immediately handed over several stacks of fresh cash from her purse. Marcus took the money, glancing at it – ten thousand dollars, not a penny more, not a penny less. He coldly eyed the broken lens on the ground, his eyes still holding that sharp, unyielding intelligence no one could fool. “More than enough to compensate you for this.” The man realized Marcus knew photography and wasn’t easy to swindle. He quietly took the money and left. But I had just landed, in the most humiliating, disheveled way possible, owing them money. I couldn’t help but let out a bitter laugh, mocking my own fate. Embracing my utter disgrace, I feigned nonchalance, smoothing my messy bangs back and greeting them with a bright smile. “Hi, Marcus, hi Isabelle. Long time no see.”

Isabelle hadn’t recognized me at first, thinking Marcus was just being a chivalrous Samaritan. The moment she saw my face, she was stunned for a split second. Then, her regret became painfully obvious. She cautiously glanced at Marcus, but didn’t respond to me. I dared not look at Marcus. But even without looking, I could feel his gaze, sharp as a blade. His stare made my skin crawl, my scalp tighten. I didn’t dare to look his way. And he, very quickly, noticed the small figure hidden behind me. Leo was already curious about Marcus. To a child, an adult who could lift them high, tossing them into the air for a game, was practically a superhero. The immediate tension had subsided. He rubbed away his tears, secretly poking his little head out to look up. And his eyes met Marcus’s. In that moment, my heart hammered, a frantic drumbeat in my chest. I felt lightheaded. This was it.

Anyone with eyes – even a blind man – could see Leo was Marcus’s son. Because standing together, they were a perfect adult and mini-me. The same nose, the same eyebrows, even the same soft, perfectly shaped ears looked like they’d been cast from the same mold. Even their daughter noticed it, tugging on Marcus’s sleeve. “Daddy, that little boy looks just like you.” Marcus’s face darkened further. Strangely, Isabelle wasn’t angry. Instead, she seemed worried, clinging to Marcus’s arm, her eyes misting over as she looked up at him, feigning helplessness. “Marcus…” Marcus snapped back to reality. His Adam’s apple bobbed. He gave me a murderous glare. His gaze was murderous, as if he wanted to devour me, or choke the life out of me a dozen times over. He was so furious, he didn’t even register Isabelle’s feigned fragility. He yanked her hand away, coldly saying, “You go back first.” Isabelle didn’t dare say more. She gave me a deep look, her eyes filled with resentment and unwillingness. But before leaving, she gently nudged her daughter. The little girl, cunning even at her young age, mimicked her mother’s innocent, vulnerable look as she spoke to Marcus, “Daddy, come home soon.” Marcus’s expression softened. He gently looked down, responding, “Okay.”

Marcus called his assistant, Ben, and handed Leo over to him. Then, we sat in the car together, in silence. He rested an arm on the window, his fingers idly stroking his lips, a deep frown etched on his face as he watched a distant plane take off. I knew his concern. “It’s fine. I won’t ask you for child support, and you don’t need to be responsible for Leo.” Suddenly, Marcus exploded. He snapped back to reality, seizing my wrist, pressing me back into the seat. His eyes were blazing red with fury, his voice shaking with raw anger. “…You think I’m worried about child support? Aria, five years! You disappeared without a trace for five whole years! Do you have any idea how long I’ve been looking for you? I’ve needed sleeping pills every night just to get some rest! Every moment, every second, I’ve been terrified, dreaming of you being cruelly murdered, trafficked to some island, or having your organs harvested! Do you know how scared I was?!” Scared? I never thought those words would come from the formidable, legendary CEO Marcus. But the bloodshot intensity in his eyes was real, not an act. His reaction completely threw me off. I was utterly bewildered. This bewilderment only infuriated him again. But this time, he looked deeply hurt. “What? In your eyes, am I truly that heartless? That I wouldn’t care if you vanished?” I scoffed. “You’re married. Why are you putting on this ‘devoted lover’ act?”

When Marcus married Isabelle, I was on an operating table. For this child, I worked five different jobs, even delivering food right up until I was seven months pregnant. The constant strain led to complications, and even a C-section was touch-and-go. As I lay there, bleeding profusely, fighting to save the child inside me, I heard the television from outside. The TV was broadcasting a lavish, ‘wedding of the century’ ceremony. The protagonists were Marcus and Isabelle. I screamed, my voice raw from the pain, as they walked down the aisle. My womb was cut open, a bloody mess, as their eyes met. I lay on the operating table, pale and barely clinging to life. They exchanged rings, gazing deeply into each other’s eyes, speaking vows of ‘never leaving.’ The way he looked at her was pure adoration. In that moment, I felt like I had died. The heartbreak was a searing pain, worse than childbirth. But after the pain, a strange calm settled over me. The nurse, wiping sweat from her brow after a frantic shift, wheeled me back to my room. The wedding on TV was slowly drawing to a close. Marcus and Isabelle embraced, kissing. The audience applauded thunderously, tears streaming down their faces as they blessed the couple. Even the nurse who was administering my IV couldn’t help but sigh, “What a perfect match.” Yes, what a perfect match. Ever since high school, ‘perfect match’ had been synonymous with Marcus and Isabelle. The whole world seemed to be rooting for them to get married, saying if they didn’t, love itself would cease to exist. Isabelle, however, fell in love with someone else. Marcus was heartbroken and furious. He drowned himself in alcohol, spiraling into self-pity, and then he confessed his feelings to me. He was truly pathetic then, sobbing in my arms, asking if I’d be with him. Against my better judgment, I said yes. And just like that, we were together, our relationship surprisingly uneventful. He did everything a boyfriend was supposed to do. But whenever he saw anything about Isabelle, his handsome brows would furrow, and he’d fall silent for the entire day. I foolishly believed he’d eventually get over her. But even more heartbroken than him were the people who desperately wanted him and Isabelle to be together. They were furious with him, demanding to know why he was with me, why he wasn’t fighting to win Isabelle back. Marcus, clearly annoyed, retorted, “She chose to be with an ordinary man, so I’ll choose to be with an ordinary woman. If this fairytale is going to be shattered, let’s shatter it completely.” So that was it. I had just found out I was pregnant when I heard him say that. I was in the room, carefully and excitedly holding the ribbon-wrapped gift box with the pregnancy test inside, planning to show it to him. The moment I heard his words, my blood ran cold. The ribbon-wrapped gift box in my hand suddenly felt incredibly ironic. How could I have thought he truly liked me, that he’d want a child with me? How could I have ever believed that *he* would fall in love with a woman like me? I didn’t have Isabelle’s beauty, or the privileged background of a socialite, or her reputation. I didn’t have the idyllic childhood she shared with Marcus. Why did I ever think he truly wanted to be with me? I had once believed he held at least a little affection for me. But at that moment, I snapped to a harsh realization: he was only with me out of spite. Out of spite against Isabelle.

That brief moment of clarity saved my life, and yet, it also shattered it. I turned and threw the pregnancy test into the ocean. Then, I went to the clinic and had an abortion. I had to leave him. Even if I wasn’t Isabelle, even if I didn’t possess her unique beauty, I wouldn’t willingly be a pawn in his spiteful games. I had my dignity. That day, I went to the clinic alone, had the abortion alone, and left the clinic alone. Dragging my weak, exhausted body back to the resort we were staying at to pack my bags. When Marcus learned I wanted to leave him, he went ballistic, snatching my things and throwing them aside. He gripped my hand tightly, so hard. “What’s wrong? What don’t you like about me? Just tell me!” It was the first time I’d seen him so furious. His anger usually simmered, a cold, silent threat that sent shivers down your spine without a single word. But that time, when I said I was leaving, his fury erupted, threatening to incinerate me. He kept asking what I disliked about him. I couldn’t say it. I couldn’t tell him he didn’t love me at all. That he saw me as a mere pawn in his petty feud with Isabelle. How could he possibly admit it? If he were that honest, he never would’ve confessed his feelings to me in the first place. If he’d seen me as a human being, he wouldn’t have played games with me, deceiving me for so long! It was my own fault for being so foolish. How could I have believed he’d ever truly let go of Isabelle? I didn’t explain anything, I just kept packing my bags. Then, he proposed to me. He got down on one knee, directly sliding the ring he had prepared onto my finger. His voice was softer and more resolute than ever. “You think I won’t marry you, don’t you? Fine, I’ll tell you now: I, Marcus Sterling, will take responsibility for you until the very end. I’ll spend my entire life with you.” Every word reeked of ‘responsibility.’ Who needs your sense of ‘responsibility’? I couldn’t help but laugh. “When I went for the abortion today, the doctor told me I might have trouble getting pregnant again. Your family, with you as the only son, needs heirs. I’m not fit for that.”

When Marcus learned I’d secretly had an abortion, his anger morphed into something far more complex. For a moment, I thought he wanted to strangle me. But then, reason seemed to pull him back. He hated me, hated me for killing his child. Disappointment, confusion, sadness, and even a flicker of fear flashed in his eyes. His thoughts tangled, making his dark eyes seem even deeper, but in the end, it all just turned to ice. He roared in fury, slamming his fist into the wall beside my head, drawing blood. He gasped for air, so consumed by hatred he probably wanted to kill me, but all he could do was gasp. I thought, with things like this, we could finally end it all. But who would have thought? Instead of letting me go, he held me captive in the hotel. He kept me there, refusing to let me see anyone or contact the outside world. Then, one night, he appeared, completely wasted, and took me roughly. —His fierceness felt like it was tearing me apart. And after that, he came every day. Every day, he acted like he wanted me dead. As if all his pain and hatred needed to be released this way. He’d attend events with beautiful young women on his arm, but he refused to end things with me. It was his twisted way of constantly trampling my dignity, watching me helpless as people ridiculed me, treating me like an idiot. I tried to break up, he refused. Every time I tried to sneak away, his bodyguards and Ben would block me. That lasted for six months, until the news of Isabelle’s divorce broke.

Isabelle got divorced. He left immediately, flying non-stop to Japan that very night. He went straight to her Tokyo home, beat up the man who had wronged her, and it made international headlines. The news showed a photo of him escorting Isabelle from her house. Isabelle’s face was bruised and tear-streaked from domestic violence, and she clung pitifully to his chest. His eyes were full of tender pity, laced with regret for not having protected her. It was a perfect opportunity. The first time in six months of trying to escape that his bodyguards and Ben weren’t around. But I didn’t leave immediately. I was still holding onto a sliver of hope. I called his cell phone. At first, no one answered. Then, finally, he picked up, only to say “What?” impatiently before hanging up. Later, I called again in the dead of night. The phone was answered, but there was no sound. After a while, I heard Isabelle crying, and Marcus’s gentle comforting words. He said, “It’s okay, I’ll take care of you from now on.” I didn’t listen any further. I threw away the cell phone Marcus had bought for me. I pried open a drawer, snatched every dollar he’d left behind, and left that very night. The car’s AC wasn’t on. It was cold. His breath plumed white in the cold car, his eyes bloodshot, as if he were holding back tears.

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I used to be a professional ghost-tester. I’d kept my nose clean for years. But to get my ambitious boyfriend into his dream university, I decided to quietly take on his case. The day before the exam, he even got down on one knee and proposed. My heart pounded, ready to tell him I’d make his dreams come true. Then, I overheard his conversation with his buddies: “Julian, it’s just a bit of fun, right? You’re not actually going to marry Blair Hayes?” “Hahaha, of course not! How could I marry some trailer park girl? She was just a temporary thrill.” He paused, a smirk playing on his lips, then added, “Besides, Seraphina’s coming back soon. Grandpa always disapproved of her, so I’ll just pick someone utterly unpresentable. The family will definitely object, and then I’ll have a perfectly legitimate excuse to marry Seraphina.” “Brilliant, absolutely brilliant! You really have all your bases covered, man…” “Oh, right, didn’t the old man say he’d only hand over the family fortune once you got into Stanton University?” “Don’t worry, I’ve got that covered. I hired a genius ghost-tester. Why do you think I was with Blair Hayes in the first place? To get all my exams aced! Now that she’s banned from taking tests, she’s useless anyway.” My grip tightened on the exam admission ticket in my hand. I ended up getting Julian a 2.50.

“How did you do?” It was a text from Julian’s burner phone. “Don’t worry, I guarantee you’ll be ‘satisfied.’” After I sent it, I squeezed my phone tight. Oh, Julian, this score? You’re going to *love* it. Three days ago, the scene of Julian kneeling before me, proposing, was still vivid in my mind. Tears welled in his eyes, and he said I was the most important person in his life. Now, it all seemed so laughable. Back home, Julian had just gone into the bathroom. On the couch, his phone screen was still lit, showing a SnapChat group chat called “The Bro Zone.” The messages that flashed across the screen made my stomach clench into a painful knot. They were private photos and videos of me and him, during our most intimate moments. He’d posted them all in that group, accompanied by vile comments. “Trailer park girls really let loose.” “Julian’s done with her, can I have a turn?” “Girls like her? Throw some cash, and they’ll do anything.” The latest message was from Julian: “Seraphina’s coming back tomorrow. Finally, I don’t have to pretend to be deeply in love anymore. This girl actually thought I was going to marry her, LOL. With her background, she’s not even fit to be a maid in my house.” I bit down on my lower lip, hard, until I tasted blood. My phone trembled in my hand, not from sorrow, but from a raging fury. What I’d believed was love, in Julian’s eyes, was nothing more than a game, and I was just the clown there for his and his friends’ amusement. The toilet flushed in the bathroom, and I quickly put his phone back, a docile smile plastered back onto my face. When Julian came out, I was kneeling on the floor, polishing his leather shoes, just as I often did over the past six months. He looked down at me, his gaze as dismissive as if I were a dog. Then he spoke, “Seraphina’s coming back tomorrow. I need to pick her up at the airport. You can grab dinner on your own tonight.” I looked up, blinking innocently, feigning confusion. “Seraphina?” “Just an old friend,” he said dismissively. “You wouldn’t know her.” I lowered my head, continuing to polish his shoes, hiding the icy coldness in my eyes. Of course, I knew exactly who Seraphina Vance was – Julian’s childhood sweetheart. After Julian left, I opened my laptop and started searching for everything I could find on Sterling Corp. I needed to understand my enemy if I was going to deliver a fatal blow. Three days later. Julian suddenly appeared at my doorstep, holding a massive bouquet of roses, his face sporting that familiar, ‘sincere’ expression. “My father wants to meet you.” He finally revealed his true purpose. “He… he approved of us.” I raised an eyebrow. “Approved of what?” “Our marriage.” Julian said urgently, “Just come home with me tomorrow to meet him.” I almost burst out laughing. Julian’s sudden change was too suspicious. There had to be a catch. But I decided to play along. “Really?” I feigned surprise. “Your father really agreed?” “Yes!” Julian grabbed my hand. “As long as you make a good impression, we’ll be married very soon.” I lowered my head, concealing the calculation swirling in my eyes. Meet Mr. Sterling? Oh, this was *perfectly* playing into my hands. “Okay, I’ll go,” I said softly.

Julian drove me to the Sterling family’s sprawling estate in the suburbs. I wore my plainest white dress and flat shoes, feeling utterly out of place amidst the opulent surroundings. “Remember,” Julian specifically instructed me before we got out of the car, “talk a lot, smile less, don’t be stiff. Just relax and be yourself. My father doesn’t like overly formal women.” I nodded. In truth, I knew perfectly well that this kind of old-money family valued elegance and composure above all else. Julian was telling me to be casual only because he wanted me to make a fool of myself in front of everyone. As soon as we entered, the Sterling family members eyed me with scrutinizing looks, as if I were a cheap knock-off. “Is *that* the trailer park girl? Ugh, she practically *screams* low-rent.” Someone snickered. “Julian, your taste is getting worse and worse.” “Right? Each one’s worse than the last. Honestly, she’s not even as good as Seraphina Vance…” Julian didn’t object. He just smirked, a look of triumph on his face. I stood my ground, my fingers gripping the hem of my dress tightly, but keeping a polite smile. “I hear your folks run a fish stand at the local market, don’t they?” “No wonder she smells like fish as soon as she walks in.” This comment sparked another round of laughter. Julian, especially, was practically bursting with laughter. This was exactly the reaction he wanted today. I was like a clown, there specifically for them to insult. But I just kept smiling. For revenge, I had no choice but to endure. “Enough.” A commanding voice echoed from the staircase, and everyone instantly fell silent. Mr. Sterling pointed at me. “You, come with me to the study. Everyone else, disperse.” Under the gazes of either jealousy or schadenfreude, I followed Mr. Sterling into the study on the second floor. Once I sat down, before Mr. Sterling could speak, I picked up the paper and pen on the desk and began writing from memory. It was this year’s Stanton University entrance exam. Mr. Sterling’s expression shifted from skepticism to surprise, and finally, to admiration. “Julian came to you because he wanted you to take the Stanton entrance exam for him, didn’t he?” I didn’t answer immediately. This was a dangerous moment—if I admitted it, Julian would hate me to my core. But if I denied it, my revenge plan couldn’t continue. Ultimately, I chose the truth. “I took it for him,” I said, a sarcastic smile touching my lips. “2.5 points.” Unexpectedly, Mr. Sterling suddenly burst out laughing. “Good! Good!” He slapped the table. “That waste of a son, Julian! He can’t even cheat properly!” I looked at him in surprise, not understanding his reaction. “I suspected Julian would find someone to take the exam for him. That good-for-nothing has never done anything on his own merits, not since he was a kid.” “There’s one thing I need you to do…” Two hours later, I walked out of the study. The Sterling family in the living room, seeing my expression, all broke into smiles of schadenfreude. “Got kicked out?” Julian’s Aunt Carol shrieked. I lowered my head, said nothing, and hurried toward the front door. Julian said casually, “Scared her speechless, didn’t it? I knew my dad wouldn’t agree. From now on, we’re going our separate ways. My family is simply way out of your league…” I suddenly looked up, a brilliant smile spreading across my face. “He… he said he agreed to our marriage.” Julian’s face instantly went pale. “What? No way! He’s always been so picky…” “How could he possibly approve of *you*?!” “You’re lying! You don’t deserve it…” Julian let go of my arm, stumbling back a few steps. “It’s over… it’s all over…” Looks like his little game just blew up in his face. Watching Julian in such a panic, my heart sang with cold satisfaction. This was just the first step, Julian. You’re going to *love* what’s coming.

News of my engagement to Julian exploded like a bombshell through the city’s elite circles. The one who took it the hardest, of course, was Seraphina Vance. To appease her, Julian shoved the tip of his polished leather shoe into the back of my knee, forcing my kneecap to crack against the hard floor. “Apologize.” His voice came from above me, cold as ice. The eyes of those around us, filled with either pity or mockery, fell upon me. “I’m sorry, Miss Vance.” I gritted my teeth, forcing myself to endure. My nails dug deep into my palms, the pain keeping my voice steady. “I shouldn’t have… taken your rightful place.” Seraphina suddenly leaned down, gripping my chin and forcing my head up. “Julian and I grew up together. Who do you think you are? A fishmonger’s daughter? You’re not even fit to polish my shoes.” A few snickers rippled through the onlookers. From the corner of my eye, I saw Julian’s lips curve into a slight smirk—he was enjoying this moment. “Seraphina, don’t stoop to her level.” Julian wrapped an arm around Seraphina’s waist, his voice sickeningly affectionate. “Come on, I’ll take you to that Japanese restaurant you love.” That night, fireworks exploded across the city sky, lighting it up all night. News alerts popped up constantly. [STERLING SCION DROPS SERIOUS CASH FOR HIS LADY LOVE] [STERLING HEIR LIGHTS UP THE SKY WITH CUSTOM FIREWORKS – EACH ONE COSTING SIX FIGURES!] [BREAKING: JULIAN STERLING TRANSFERS 5% OF STERLING CORP. SHARES TO SERAPHINA VANCE, VALUED AT $980 MILLION!] These shares were core assets Julian was set to inherit. Seeing him squander them like this… It was no wonder Mr. Sterling had a contingency plan. The front door was suddenly kicked open. Julian stormed in, drenched, with Seraphina, equally soaked, trailing behind him. She was wrapped in Julian’s tailored blazer, and he was looking at her with an intensity I’d never seen directed at me. Julian’s face twisted the moment he saw me. “What are you still doing here?” I offered my standard sweet smile. “Dad told me to stay here. He said to wait for you.” Seraphina suddenly giggled. “Look at your fiancée, Julian, she’s like a pathetic little guard dog!” Julian’s face instantly darkened. “Dad told you to stay here?” He sneered. “How come *I* don’t know about it?” “Mr. Sterling called personally this afternoon. Said for me to get ready for the wedding.” Julian’s eyebrow twitched violently. Mr. Sterling had never been fond of Seraphina; Julian knew that better than anyone. Yet, Seraphina, banking on Julian’s blatant favoritism, had never bothered to show respect to anyone. And now, she sat on the couch, legs crossed, pointing a manicured finger at me with an infuriating air of entitlement— “Julian, my foot hurts. Tell her to rub it.” The air instantly froze. Julian narrowed his eyes. He spoke coldly, “You. Come here.” —He wanted me to kneel and rub Seraphina’s foot? Seeing my lack of reaction, Julian’s eyes turned menacing. “What, did you suddenly forget how to understand English?” I took a deep breath and slowly walked toward her. Just as I was about to bend my knees— “Enough!” A commanding voice roared from the staircase. Mr. Sterling stood there, leaning on his cane, his face terrifyingly grim. “Dad…” Julian’s expression instantly changed. Seraphina panicked too, quickly putting her feet down and standing up awkwardly. “Mr. S-Sterling…” Mr. Sterling didn’t even spare her a glance. “My Sterling family’s future daughter-in-law is not for outsiders to order around.” His voice wasn’t loud, but it was like a slap, landing hard across Seraphina’s face. Seraphina’s face went chalk-white. “Mr. Sterling, I… I was just…” “Just what?” Mr. Sterling sneered. He continued, “Miss Vance, I hear your ‘studies’ abroad were quite *eventful*?” Seraphina trembled from head to toe. “Her drug abuse, her compulsive gambling, her… *indiscretions* abroad,” Mr. Sterling’s words, sharp as knives, sliced into her. “The doors of the Sterling family are not open to someone with your… *habits*.” Seraphina’s face instantly turned ashen. She whipped her head around to look at Julian, her eyes wide with panic. “Julian, I…” But Julian didn’t speak this time. Mr. Sterling scoffed, then directly ordered the butler, “Show her out.” Seraphina panicked, reaching out to tug Julian’s sleeve. “Julian! Say something!” Julian was silent for a few seconds. Finally, he slowly pulled his hand away, his voice low. “Seraphina, you should go home.” Seraphina stared at him in disbelief, her eyes shifting from shock to resentment, finally fixating on me— “Blair Hayes, you just wait!” As she left, her venomous gaze seemed to promise she’d tear me apart. 4 After Seraphina left, a strange silence fell over the entire living room. Julian stared at Mr. Sterling, his Adam’s apple bobbing. “Dad, aren’t you being a bit too harsh? Seraphina was just confused for a moment…”

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To ensure her beloved ex got promoted, the CEO’s wife stole my proposal. Then she had the audacity to accuse me of plagiarism, claiming I copied her ex’s work, and demanded severe disciplinary action. Her ex, Mason Rivers, smirked, looking smug. “Liam Allen, I can’t believe you’d stoop to such scheming and dishonest tactics just to get a promotion. Mr. Harrison despises petty, underhanded people like you. Once he’s back, not only will you be kicked out of the company, but you’ll be blacklisted across the entire industry.” I didn’t get angry. Instead, I just laughed and resigned on the spot. My wife, Isabella Harris, seeing me so compliant, privately offered to put in a good word for me, assuring me that getting back into the company wouldn’t be a problem. What they didn’t know was that Mr. Harrison was my dad, and he’d seen me write that proposal firsthand. Once the truth came out, they wouldn’t just be utterly disgraced; they’d lose everything. “Liam Allen, the company invested so much manpower and resources into training you, and you’re just walking away?” “I can be generous and forgive your plagiarism. However, you’ll have to work as my assistant and learn what real decency and integrity means.” Mason Rivers straightened his suit jacket, his face full of mockery as he stepped on the proposal I’d spent a week burning the midnight oil on. I sneered back. “Mason Rivers, you’re nothing but a kept man, clinging to a woman to get ahead, you shameless cheat. What right do you have to be yapping here? Have me as your assistant? Do you honestly think you’re worthy?” Everyone present gasped, shocked that I, a failed candidate for promotion, dared to talk back. Mason’s face subtly changed. Isabella Harris, sitting firmly in the main chair, suddenly stood up. She grabbed the uncapped pen from beside her and hurled it at me. “Liam Allen, you’re utterly insolent! This is Harrison Corp., not your living room! You plagiarized, and now you’re trying to turn the tables on us?” I didn’t have time to dodge. The pen tip sliced across my cheek, leaving a thin line of crimson blood. The sharp sting made me wince. Isabella’s long lashes fluttered, a flicker of something, maybe regret, in her eyes as she clenched her fists and spoke in a low, tight voice. “Mason is being so kind to forgive you. You should be incredibly grateful. It’s not easy to find a job these days.” I just curled my lips. We’d been married for five years, and Isabella and I had worked tirelessly together at the company for five years. She always said that once I became a Vice President, we’d go public with our marriage. She kept climbing, her position getting higher and higher, but her heart drifted further and further away. Every time a promotion opportunity came up, she ordered me to give it to someone else. Those who joined the company before me needed stability; they deserved promotion. Those who joined after me were ‘talented’; they deserved promotion. Mason Rivers had broken up with her in the past because she was ‘poor.’ Only after his family’s fortunes crashed did he come crawling back. He joined the company a year ago and was fast-tracked for promotion three times. Isabella personally wrote glowing reports, praising him to high heaven. I’d finally gotten to the point where I was about to stand shoulder to shoulder with her, but then she stole my proposal for Mason Rivers and accused me of plagiarism. “Alright, Isabella, don’t be angry. I don’t blame him. After all, getting caught plagiarizing is quite shameful. But I’m kind-hearted. I can’t bear to see him homeless, so I’m willing to share the project results with him so he can make up for his mistake.” Mason Rivers spoke up, feigning reconciliation, a smug look on his face. “Mr. Harrison is still recovering abroad and doesn’t know what’s happened here. Liam Allen, I can put in a good word for you when he gets back.” It was always like this. He’d push me to my breaking point, then hide behind Isabella, playing the victim. It made everyone believe he was bearing immense humiliation and was genuinely kind-hearted, while I was petty and spiteful, unable to tolerate others. Isabella nodded, her eyes full of admiration as she looked at Mason. “Liam Allen, Mason is so excellent and has such good character. You’ll be lucky to work under him.” Lucky? Besides his sweet talk and empty promises, he knew absolutely nothing about corporate work. If you looked at his achievements, they were all projects where Isabella had forcefully added his name, or projects he’d outright stolen from me. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have needed to plagiarize me for a simple proposal. Thinking of this, I scoffed. “Work with him? That flawed, copy-pasted proposal of mine, riddled with holes? If he takes that out, he’ll be lucky if he doesn’t anger our partners to death. I don’t want to get dragged into that mess.” Mason’s eyes reddened. He pulled off his employee badge and cried. “Isabella, I know I’m new to the industry and don’t have Liam’s experience. I’ve tried my best to befriend him, but he still has such a big prejudice against me. I can’t do this anymore. Maybe I should just leave!” If he hadn’t been clutching that badge tightly in his hand, I might have actually believed him. Bang! Isabella slammed her hand on the table, yelling furiously. “Liam Allen, this is workplace bullying! Apologize to Mason right now! Don’t forget what I told you a few days ago!” She winked at me, making a motion with her hand as if putting on a ring. I knew. She was threatening me with our official announcement. Everyone present, watching our dispute, unhesitatingly sided with the CEO. “Liam Allen, you were about to be kicked out of the company. It was our VP Mason who was generous enough to let you stay. You should be grateful! Now apologize!” “VP Mason is so dashing and talented. We’d all fight to be his assistant! You’re shameless enough to plagiarize, and you can’t even apologize? What’s with this ‘integrity’ act?” My gaze swept over all those familiar faces. Isabella had always treated me harshly at the company, exceptionally strict, making it known to everyone that she disliked me. These opportunists usually disobeyed orders and left all the messes for me to clean up. I endured it, waiting for the day I’d be promoted to VP and Isabella would go public with our marriage. All I got was an empty promise. Facing their coercion, I said calmly, “Since VP Rivers is so excellent, why does he need me? I wish him luck in leading the company to greatness.” Isabella saw I wasn’t taking the bait. Her delicate brows furrowed, and she snapped, “Liam Allen, you’re still so stubborn! When Mr. Harrison returns, it will be your downfall!” I chuckled. “More like your downfall.” Only I knew that Mr. Harrison was my dad, and I was his only son, pampered since childhood. When I was burning the midnight oil writing that proposal, he was sick, but he worried about my eyes so much it broke his heart. He even offered to write it for me. I wanted to see who would really be in trouble once my dad came back.

Isabella was shaking with rage, about to yell at me again. But I’d already pushed open the conference room door and walked out of the company. The house decor was minimalist. I collapsed onto the sofa, staring blankly up at the extraordinarily large crystal chandelier. When we decorated, Isabella had said, “Liam Allen, someday I’ll buy you a huge mansion, and this lamp will be exactly where it belongs!” But now, that serious-faced girl gradually faded from my mind. Seven years ago, we met in college. I was drawn to her earnest expression as she worked a part-time job in the cafeteria, wiping tables and washing dishes. She said she’d come from a poor, rural background, and her parents had been killed by unscrupulous corporate types, which was why she hated rich kids the most. So I pretended to be an ordinary person and dated her, falling deeper and deeper in love. After graduation, she said she wanted to work hard and make it on her own. I abandoned my parents’ plans for me to study abroad. I even threatened to cut ties with them, throwing myself headfirst into the trap of love. To punish me, my parents cut off all financial support and blacklisted me from the entire industry. In the beginning, I was busy running errands during the day and, in my free time at night, I delivered food and worked as a designated driver. Isabella and I were crammed into a cramped, windowless basement apartment, and my immune system weakened. I broke out in rashes all over my body. My mom would sneak a look at me then, find me thin and worn out, and just cry. Isabella was just a fresh-faced corporate newbie back then, still very green in business. It was I who taught her how to apply economic principles strategically, guiding her growth with the experience I gained from interning at my family’s company, wanting her to become as skilled as I was. She told me countless times that without me, she wouldn’t have made it. One New Year’s Eve, we huddled together under a blanket, watching a movie on my tiny old phone, listening to the fireworks outside. A bowl of ramen with an egg was our best New Year’s meal. She craved it, her mouth watering, but she kept putting her egg into my bowl, insisting I eat. Finally, my parents realized we were slowly finding our footing even in such difficult circumstances. They relented, secretly lifting the industry blacklisting order and bringing Isabella and me into the company for an internship. I thought a bright future was finally coming. But what came instead was Isabella becoming increasingly cold towards me because of work. A year ago, Mason Rivers suddenly reappeared, begging on his knees for her forgiveness. That was the first time she didn’t come home all night, completely wasted. She told me countless times that she was being good to Mason because, even though he was a disgraced rich kid, he was still a connection, useful for the company. I believed her. Until this time, when she unscrupulously used me as a stepping stone to pave the way for Mason. I finally had enough. I pulled out my phone and asked my mom, “How’s Dad’s condition? When is he coming back?” My mom sensed something was off and replied, “He thinks he’s much better. He’ll be back tomorrow. Has someone at the company been bothering you?” I replied, “No, I just miss you guys.” Just as I was about to close my phone and go to sleep, I scrolled through Mason Rivers’s Ins story. “My beautiful boss is so kind and generous. She approved a company car for me to drive! Thanks, Isabella!” In the photo, Mason stood in front of a luxury sedan worth half a million dollars, while Isabella held a bouquet of flowers, looking gentle. The comment section exploded, praising him and Isabella, saying they looked good together. Isabella, who had claimed our marriage had to be kept secret because office romance was frowned upon, silently approved of everyone shipping her and Mason. She only replied, “The company won’t treat you unfairly. This is the perk of being a VP.” Yet, when I wanted to replace my beat-up sedan, which I’d driven for years, Isabella accused me of not being considerate of the company’s finances and not treating the company like it was my own. She never approved it. Love and indifference were so painfully obvious. Late into the night, Isabella finally came home. She’d had quite a bit to drink, stumbling unsteadily. After collapsing onto the sofa, she winced, covering her eyes, and complained, “Why are the lights so bright? Are you trying to blind me?” Too lazy to argue with a drunk, I turned off the crystal chandelier, leaving only a faint glow from the entryway light. In the darkness, Isabella’s watery eyes were bright. She mumbled, “Liam Allen, you almost made me lose face at the company today, and you didn’t even come to pick me up tonight. You’re really something. Do you actually want to be a kept man? How can I go public with our marriage like this, how can I go back to your family’s place and meet your parents?” She hugged the throw pillow on the sofa. Something seemed to cross her mind, and she suddenly chuckled. “A rich kid like Mason is just different from someone from your small-town background. Look how generous he is, he even urged me to come home early, worried you’d make a fuss. As long as you agree to take some of the burden off him, I might even be able to hire you back as a full-time employee!” Ultimately, it was just about getting me to do Mason Rivers’s work for free. In the darkness, I said, “No need for all that trouble. Let’s get a divorce.”

“What?” She mumbled, half-asleep. I turned around, took out the divorce papers I’d already printed, and repeated, “Let’s get a divorce. Give Mason Rivers an official title.” Isabella’s faint smile froze, and she sobered up in an instant. After a long silence, she got up, poking my chest with her finger, her voice sharp. “Liam Allen, are you crazy? When did you get such a temper? You threw a fit and resigned just because you missed one promotion, and now, just because I had a drink with Mason tonight, you’re threatening divorce? You better think this through. I’m the breadwinner in this family. What right do you have to threaten me?” “I’m already exhausted today. Tomorrow, I have to help Mason with our partners. Coming home just to get yelled at is worse than staying at the office!” With that, she grabbed her coat and stormed out. I didn’t go after her. I simply placed the divorce papers on the coffee table, turned around, and went to bed. The next day, after breakfast, my mom sent me a message: “Liam, Dad and I have already left for the company. Don’t bother coming to the airport. See you at the company. Mom brought you a gift.” I wiped my mouth and headed for the office. As soon as I entered the company, Isabella was chatting with Mason Rivers, laughing heartily. When she saw me, her upward curving lips flattened. She glanced at me sideways. “Oh, look who it is. The person who resigned yesterday. Why are you still here? It’s not payday yet.” Before I could speak, a secretary called Mason away, saying the partners had arrived and wanted to discuss things with him. Mason patted my shoulder and whispered, “Liam, I’m not saying this to be mean, but how can you let Isabella, a woman, wander around outside in the middle of the night? It’s so dangerous. I had to take her to my place. Don’t worry, I’m a gentleman. I slept on the floor.” I knew he was intentionally trying to make me misunderstand. But I wasn’t here at the company to argue today. Isabella, however, smiled smugly. “Mason just submitted his proposal yesterday, and today the partners are already here to meet him. They must be very pleased and want to deepen our cooperation. Liam Allen, you just don’t know what’s good for you. I’d like to see which company would hire someone with no background or talent after you leave Harrison Corp.” I couldn’t help but frown. “That proposal clearly has problems. You actually approved it?” Isabella’s beautiful eyes narrowed, and she scowled, displeased. “Liam Allen, don’t speak such venomous nonsense. Mason’s business acumen is far better than yours. How could there be any problems?!” Suddenly, shouting erupted from the conference room. The next second, the conference room door burst open, and Mason Rivers stormed out. He fixed his gaze on Isabella, clinging to her like a lifeline, hugging her waist and not daring to look up. Isabella simply patted his hand on her waist, soothingly. “What’s wrong? Are the partners not satisfied with your proposal?” Before he could answer, the furious partners emerged. “Harrison Corp.’s proposals are this low quality? As soon as that proposal launched yesterday, not a single one of our products sold, and they’re being boycotted!” “‘A woman’s worth is in her looks; that’s what men truly desire.’ Who wrote that line? Did anyone even think before submitting it?!” The partners were fuming. Isabella frowned, looking troubled. Mason’s eyes darted around, then he immediately pointed at me and yelled, “It was him! He held a grudge after being caught plagiarizing and deliberately swapped my original file! He should be entirely responsible for this!”

I was utterly dumbfounded by this baseless accusation. Isabella’s gaze lingered on me for a second, then she effortlessly shifted the blame onto me. “It’s true, it was him. This person has a history. We’ve already decided to fire him, and we’ll deal with him severely to provide your party with a reasonable explanation!” The partners snorted. After much placating and apologizing, they finally ushered the partner out. Mason Rivers peeked his head out, then finally straightened up and cleared his throat. “Liam Allen, it’s all your fault. This project is completely ruined. Do you know this project had tens of millions in profit? Even if I wanted to speak up for you, you’ll have to compensate us for this project!” I found it laughable. “Mason Rivers, are you delusional?” Isabella shielded Mason, her face arrogant. “Mason just managed to become VP. He can’t have this kind of blemish on his record. Liam Allen, if you admit your mistake, I might grudgingly have a good impression of you.” I sneered. My biggest mistake was letting her waltz into the company and wreak havoc. Just as I was about to turn, Mason Rivers grabbed the back of my shirt and yanked hard. My neck felt strangely bare. I turned back and saw the rare sapphire pendant my parents had commissioned for my eighteenth birthday, now clutched in Mason’s hand as he fiddled with it. He scoffed. “What a cheap, superstitious trinket. So clear, must be cheap glass. Liam Allen, if you admit the project is your responsibility, I can buy you a real one.” My eyes widened. “Give it back!” Isabella, knowing full well this was my cherished possession and that I never took it off, frowned and said, “If you agree to admit to swapping the original file, I’ll have Mason give it back to you.” Rage burned in my chest. I reached out to grab it, yelling again. “Give it back right now!” Seeing my anger, Mason smirked, deliberately letting go. The sapphire pendant dropped to the floor, shattering into several pieces. My pupils contracted. The next second, pure rage consumed me. I kicked Mason square in the chest. He staggered back two steps and fell to the ground. Everyone gasped, seeing my sudden outburst, and rushed to surround me. Isabella quickly helped Mason up, but I wasn’t about to let him off easy. A year’s worth of frustration and resentment exploded. I punched him square on the nose. Immediately, two streams of blood poured down his face. People from behind grabbed me, pinning my arms, but I still tried to kick him with my legs. “Mason Rivers, I’m not letting a worm like you get away with this!” Isabella’s eyes were full of heartache. She shielded the back of Mason’s head and wiped his nosebleed with a tissue. Mason burst into tears, tugging at her sleeve. “Isabella, I accidentally dropped his thing, it wasn’t on purpose.” Isabella suddenly stood up and slapped me across the face, snapping my head to the side. She snapped, “Liam Allen, get on your knees and apologize to Mason! That necklace of yours was just a cheap piece of junk. So what if it broke? How could you hit him? I’ll buy you ten more!” How ridiculous. My parents spent millions to acquire that rare sapphire, and hired a world-renowned jeweler to craft it. The craftsmanship alone cost hundreds of thousands. Most importantly, my parents had it specially blessed for me, spending days seeking good fortune for my life at a spiritual retreat. Its significance was immeasurable. Seeing me silent, everyone pushed me down, forcing me to my knees. “Liam Allen, what’s with the act? We’re not calling the cops on you, that’s charity enough! Now, apologize!” I struggled violently, glaring at everyone. “Mr. Harrison will be here any minute. If you’re so brave, try forcing me to my knees in front of him.” Mason Rivers still thought I was bluffing. He snorted. “Isabella doesn’t even know when Mr. Harrison is coming back. You think you can fool us by saying he’s here and get out of compensating for the project going south?” Isabella said in a low voice, “Even if Mr. Harrison comes, it’s no use if you complain to him. He won’t believe you.” I chuckled, poking the inside of my cheek with my tongue, where my tooth had cut it. “I’m his son. He won’t believe me?” Mason Rivers looked like he’d heard the funniest joke in the world. “Liam Allen, have you lost your mind from fear? Your last name is Allen, his is Harrison. If you’re his son, then I’m his grandpappy!” “Everyone knows Mr. Harrison’s beloved son has been studying abroad. You, a country boy, are quite vain, forgetting your roots!” After I hit him, he could no longer maintain his gentlemanly facade. His face contorted in a sneer. Before his words even finished, a steady male voice rang out. “What is this commotion in the lobby? This is utterly unacceptable!” I turned my head. The middle-aged man who had just stepped into the company was impeccably dressed, exuding authority. It was my dad. I hadn’t even had time to feel happy when Mason Rivers roughly shoved me aside and went to greet him, fawning. “Mr. Harrison, you’re back! How are you feeling? We were just cleaning house. Everyone knows you value character most, but a certain employee not only plagiarized my proposal to get promoted but also deliberately sabotaged my original file out of revenge, angering our partners and causing our company to lose a hundred-million-dollar deal!” He looked up, tears in his eyes, and pulled out the bloody tissue from his nose. “He even deliberately hit me! Such a person is truly disgusting!” My dad’s eyes widened in fury. He looked at Isabella. “Isabella, is what he’s saying true? If there’s such a petty person, notify the legal department to make him pay compensation and issue a public statement to blacklist him from the entire industry. I’ll make sure that person knows the consequences of tarnishing my Harrison Corp.!” Isabella glanced at me imperceptibly, hesitated for a second, then finally nodded her assent. “Mr. Harrison, I’ve already fired him, but he is an old employee of our company…” Saying that, she pulled me from the crowd. “Liam Allen, why aren’t you apologizing to Mr. Harrison? Otherwise, even if I put in a good word for you, Mr. Harrison won’t let you off easy!” The next second, my dad raised his hand. Everyone thought he was going to hit me, their faces full of mockery. Mason Rivers even yelled, “Mr. Harrison, don’t dirty your hands by hitting him. Why don’t I do it?” But my dad only touched the slap mark on my face, his eyes full of concern. “Liam, who hit you? Dad will make them pay!” Everyone present, who had been gloating, couldn’t believe their eyes at this scene. They exchanged stunned glances. I bit my lip, my nose stung, and I barely managed to keep my tears from falling.

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Last life, both I and my husband’s first love went into difficult labor at the same time. My husband, without a moment’s hesitation, gave the critical blood transfusion to Ashley, leading to my child being brain-damaged from birth. He took Ashley and their child to the city to start a business, hitting it big and becoming a renowned entrepreneur. They lived in a sprawling mansion, enjoying the high life. But my child and I? We were left behind in a remote town, enduring daily humiliation from the locals. Until a group of thugs lured my son into an old, dilapidated outhouse and drowned him in the cesspit. Soon after, I aged beyond recognition, barely forty but looking eighty – a withered, broken husk of a woman. When my husband finally returned, flaunting his success, Ashley, nestled in his arms, still looked like she was in her twenties. Seeing me, Ashley smirked, a triumphant glint in her eyes: “Granny, mind stepping aside?” I felt my blood boil, then my world went black. When I opened my eyes again, I was back in the delivery room, in the throes of labor.

A searing, tearing pain ripped through me, and I realized I’d been reborn to the moment of my difficult labor. Right now, Blake’s first love, Ashley, was in the delivery room right next to mine. Clutching my belly, I rasped out, “Give me blood! A transfusion!” The next second, my mother-in-law, Brenda, stormed into the delivery room. Her face was a thundercloud, and she didn’t hesitate to slap me, hard. “Blood transfusion? Do you know how much that costs?” “If you hadn’t insisted on coming to this small community clinic to give birth, the money we saved could’ve lasted us for ages!” My face stung with throbbing pain, but I bit down hard on my lip. If I hadn’t insisted on coming here, with the abysmal hygiene conditions at home, both my child and I would have been dead! My voice, raw with pain, was barely a whisper. “Please! I’m having a difficult labor, give me blood!” “Otherwise, the baby will be brain-damaged!” Brenda scoffed. “Why are you so overdramatic?” “I think you’re just not trying hard enough, you just want to slack off, that’s why you can’t push him out!” I ignored her taunts, grabbing the nurse’s cold, clammy hand. “Please, help me!” The nurse glanced at my lower body, her expression grave as she nodded. “She’s hemorrhaging badly! Prepare for a blood transfusion!” Just as the nurse was about to leave, Brenda blocked her path, her shifty eyes glinting with a cruel light. “Our family won’t pay for any blood transfusion! We don’t have the money!” “What’s a little blood? Every woman bleeds during childbirth! She just needs to tough it out.” I clenched my teeth, screaming at the nurse, my voice raw, “I have money! I’ll pay for it! Please, get me the blood!” At that, Brenda finally moved aside, but she kept muttering about how dramatic I was. Just as the nurse returned with the blood bag, Blake burst in and snatched it away. “Ashley is also in difficult labor! She needs the blood now! Give it to Ashley first!” My heart seized. “No, Blake! I’m hemorrhaging too!” Blake scoffed. “Who are you trying to fool?” “I know you can’t stand Ashley, but how could you lie about something so life-or-death? Have you no shame?” “You’re screaming your head off, but Ashley’s in so much pain she can’t even speak!” I gritted my teeth. “I’m carrying *your* child! Can you really be so heartless?” “You and Ashley have the same blood type. You can donate your blood to her, it’s the same thing!” As soon as I said that, Brenda scowled and started yelling at me. “Is that how a wife talks? His blood is his life force, darling. Donating it would drain him, weaken him! How dare you suggest such a thing?” Before I could retort, Blake was already turning to leave with the blood. He said, “You’re so strong, you can just grit your teeth and get through it. But Ashley… she can’t!”

I gritted my teeth, sinking into a pit of despair. Had I been reborn only to watch myself and my child slide back into the tragic fate of my previous life? Just as the darkness threatened to swallow me whole, a name pierced through the chaotic fog in my mind. Liam. My childhood sweetheart. After I married Blake in my last life, I lost touch with Liam. I’d only vaguely heard he’d become the manager of the local general store. He worked nearby. He could definitely help me. I mustered my last ounce of strength, gripping the nurse’s cold, clammy hand. “Nurse… please…” My voice was a ragged, desperate rasp, like sandpaper on stone. “Help me make a call. Get someone to bring me blood!” But at that moment, Blake reappeared at the delivery room door. His gaze, sharp as a razor, cut into me. “Skylar, what are you playing at?” “You still have the energy to talk. You’re not even in difficult labor. Why are you calling people?” Every single word he uttered felt like a poisoned ice pick, a brutal stab to my heart. My vision swam with black spots, and a tearing pain ripped through my lower body. I bit down hard on my lip. “Blake, the child I’m carrying… is *your* child too!” He scoffed, a chilling sneer twisting his lips. “Precisely because it’s my child, I can’t let him be born into a lie.” “You’re not in difficult labor at all. You just saw Ashley having complications and decided to fake it to make me pity you!” I never imagined that Blake truly intended to abandon my child and me to our deaths! Just then, the nurse cried out in a panic, “The patient really is in difficult labor! She needs a blood transfusion immediately, or the baby’s life will be in danger!” Blake merely sneered. “Oh, you’re good! You even bribed the nurse to trick me!” “Tell me! How much did she pay you to put on this act with her?” The nurse’s face went white. She struggled, crying, “Let go of me! Saving lives is urgent!” Blake looked like he’d heard the funniest joke. “Save her? What’s worth saving about a woman full of lies and a vicious heart?” At that moment, Ashley’s sharp scream echoed from the next delivery room. The coldness on his face instantly melted into anxious desperation, as if scorched by flames. He didn’t even spare me another glance, turning and rushing into the room next door. Before he left, he spoke to Brenda, his voice dark. “Mom, stay here and watch her!” “Let’s see how long she can keep up this act!” His words, so casually tossed, felt like poisoned icicles, sealing shut the last sliver of hope I clung to. My vision went black, and all the strength drained from my body in an instant, leaving me hollow. I finally stopped struggling, stopped crying out. Because I realized I had completely lost hope. “No! The patient can’t hold on much longer!” The nurse’s anxious voice pulled me back to a sliver of consciousness from the fog. “If she doesn’t get blood soon, the baby will suffocate inside her!” A tearing pain ripped through me, but it was nothing compared to the agony in my heart. For me, and for my child! “Is this your family’s child or not? Are you going to just stand there and watch him die?” Brenda’s shifty eyes swept coldly over my pathetic form on the bed, not a trace of compassion on her face. A moment later, a chilling, twisted smile stretched across her face. “Difficult labor, you say?” “I have a folk remedy that works wonders.” My heart clenched, and a terrifying premonition seized me, cold and relentless.

Brenda’s eyes were fixed on me, and she slowly, deliberately, uttered the rest of her sentence. “When a pregnant woman has difficult labor, you find a horse, make it step on her belly a few times, and the baby will come right out.” “Once the horse’s hoof falls, the baby will be delivered naturally!” *Boom!* My mind went blank. How could any sane person suggest something so monstrous? She wanted to stomp us into a bloody pulp! “No! No!” I don’t know where the strength came from, but I violently propped myself up halfway on the bed, screaming hysterically with my raw, torn throat. “You wouldn’t dare!” She scoffed, her smile laced with venom and malicious delight. “It’s not up to you.” Every word she spoke was like a death sentence. “You’re carrying a child of the Blake family. How it’s born is our decision!” No sooner had she finished speaking than she turned and walked out of the delivery room. Soon after, Brenda returned with two burly men. “Drag her out!” The two men nodded and started walking towards me, step by heavy step! The nurse spread her arms, blocking them, her face pale. “You’re trying to kill her!” “She’s just given birth! She’ll die like this!” I thrashed with all my limbs, but my meager strength was like trying to stop a bulldozer with my bare hands against two grown men. One grabbed my arms, the other lifted my legs, and they brutally dragged me off the bed. I was lifted and carried out like a sacrificial lamb, stripped of all dignity. They carried me to the entrance of the clinic. A crowd of curious villagers had gathered. “What’s going on? Why are they carrying out the woman who’s giving birth?” “Must be that her in-laws found out the baby isn’t theirs! Serves her right!” “No wonder! She deserves it!” Brenda led a yellow ox, the very one that had pulled the cart bringing me here, from a short distance away. She brought the ox in front of me, its snorting breath hot on my face. Brenda’s wrinkled yet menacing face, her eyes glinting with undisguised malice. “No horse? No problem.” “An ox will do just fine!” Waves of despair washed over me. Were my son and I destined to die, not even getting a whole body back? What had I ever done wrong to deserve this? Just then, I saw Blake standing at the clinic entrance. I cried out as if clutching a lifeline. “Blake! The child I’m carrying is your son! Do you really want me to be humiliated like this?” “If I die, aren’t you afraid of what people will say about you?” But my desperate screams only earned me Blake’s cold scoff. “Who told you to fake difficult labor and lie? It’s good my mom gives you a lesson!” At that, my eyes closed, and all hope vanished. No one could save me now. I only hated myself for choosing the wrong man, for dooming my son in two lifetimes. Brenda led the ox closer, its foul-smelling saliva dripping onto my face. She gave a chilling smirk: “It’ll be over soon. Just one stomp and the baby will come out smoothly!” As Brenda cracked the whip, the ox lifted its hoof high, about to come down on my body! In that split second, I heard a familiar voice! “Stop!” That voice… “Skylar, is that you?” I wrenched my eyes open and saw a familiar figure at the edge of the crowd.

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A muffled voice crackled through the bus speakers, announcing the next stop. 1. **Rule number one:** Never give up your seat to someone holding a baby. Break this, and you’ll regret it forever. 2. **Rule number two:** If you accidentally break Rule One, you can’t refuse anything the woman with the baby asks. Refuse, and you’ll die. 3. **Rule number three:** Don’t easily trust people in black and white checkered shirts. What they say could be true, or it could be a lie. 4. **Rule number four:** Absolutely never trust people in red clothes. See red, look down. Avoid eye contact at all costs. They are devils, masters of manipulation. 5. **Don’t… get off… never… get off at…** “Static crackled… then silence.” The bus pulled to a stop. A woman, cradling a baby, stepped inside. The bus speakers blared again. “Westside Lane One, now arriving. Please exit through the rear door.” *Tap-tap-tap…* The woman with the baby paused right in front of me. My sleepy haze instantly evaporated. I was just about to stand up and offer my seat. Suddenly, a piercing, grating sound ripped through the bus. **【1. NEVER give up your seat to a woman holding a baby!】** **【NEVER give up your seat to a woman holding a baby!】** **【NEVER give up your seat to a woman holding a baby, or you’ll regret it forever!】** The static-filled voice grew sharper, more insistent with each repetition. I clapped my hands over my ears, my heart pounding, and glanced around at the other passengers. They looked like they hadn’t heard a thing. This sound… it felt like only I could hear it. What the hell was going on? Was I hallucinating? Just as I was brushing it off, the bus speakers flared to life again, the voice still only audible to me. **【Bus Survival Rules】** **【1. Remember, never give up your seat to a woman holding a baby. Break this, and you’ll regret it forever.】** **【2. If you accidentally break Rule One, you can’t refuse anything the woman with the baby asks. Refuse, and you’ll die.】** **【3. Don’t easily trust people in black and white checkered shirts. What they say could be true, or it could be a lie.】** **【4. Absolutely never trust people in red clothes. See red, look down. Avoid eye contact at all costs. They are devils, masters of manipulation.】** **【5. Get off at the final stop. Never, ever get off at any stop in between, no matter what you see or hear.】** **【6. If you accidentally break any of these forbidden rules, scream for the driver’s help! Remember, you only get ONE chance!】** The woman with the baby stood right in front of me. Give up the seat or… don’t? Who was I supposed to believe? Giving up my seat was the right thing to do, a gesture of kindness. Not doing it would make my conscience scream. But if I did give up my seat, what exactly would happen that I’d regret forever?

I was in the very front of the bus. The front seats faced each other. Three blue seats on the left, three blue seats on the right. Every seat was taken. My seat was right behind the driver. Mr. Thorne kept urging the newly boarded passengers to move to the back. But the woman with the baby just stood there, motionless, in front of me.

I kept my head down, pretending not to notice her. Those narrow, pointed blue embroidered shoes remained firmly in my line of sight, unwavering. Wait a second! Aren’t those… the kind you only see in old movies, meant for the dead? Burial shoes? The atmosphere quickly turned eerie. My palms were slick with sweat. Mr. Thorne barked, “Someone give up their seat for the lady with the baby!” My head was still bowed, my hands clammy. In the middle of the bus, there were yellow seats marked for priority seating. Why wasn’t she waiting there for someone else to offer their seat? Why *me*? Why was she specifically standing in front of me?

The woman with the baby swayed unsteadily in the aisle, looking ready to collapse from exhaustion. Everyone stared at her and the poor baby in her arms, their gazes burning into me, full of disgust and anger. As Mr. Thorne’s urging intensified, and under the torrent of condemning glares from the other passengers, it felt like I was being grilled alive, turning over a roaring fire. I, the one who wouldn’t give up her seat, had become the villain everyone hated. My heart pounded like a drum. Part of me worried about what would happen if I gave up the seat, while the other part was tormented by agonizing guilt. Someone, save me. I looked at the guy sitting to my left. His blue athletic jacket had, at some point, changed into a black and white checkered shirt. His features began to distort under my gaze, twisting into a pixelated mess, like a glitch in a video game. Then, a crisp voice suddenly sounded in my ear. **【3. Don’t easily trust people in black and white checkered shirts. What they say could be true, or it could be a lie.】**

My breath hitched. My scalp tingled, every hair standing on end. My neck felt rusted, but I mechanically turned my head to look at the person on my right. She was a heavily pregnant woman, wearing a white maternity dress. A pregnant woman, in white… She had to be good, right? She *had* to be! I was just about to ask her for help. Then, a bizarre, lumpy shape began to press against her taut belly. I saw a tiny fist push out, then a small foot, and slowly, a miniature face appeared on her stomach. The scene suddenly became horrifying. The baby inside her belly became violently agitated. It tore through her round belly. Blood gushed out like a fountain, instantly soaking her white dress a horrifying crimson. A tiny, bloody, wrinkled baby crawled out from between her legs, dragging a long, slimy umbilical cord. It scrabbled across the floor, leaving a glistening trail of blood. It was sickening. I felt bile rise in my throat. She had turned into someone wearing red clothes. And at that very moment, I was staring right at her. **【4. Absolutely never trust people in red clothes. See red, look down. Avoid eye contact at all costs. They are devils, masters of manipulation.】**

This was insane! Everything was insane! I wanted off! I needed to escape this bus! I shoved past the other passengers, desperately hammering on the back door. “Open up! I need to get off! Open the door!” “I’m getting off!” “Let me out!” I screamed like a madwoman. The bus speakers announced, “Westside Lane Two, now arriving. Please exit through the rear door.” With a hiss, the door opened. Through a gap in the crowd, I saw Mr. Thorne turn to look at me. His eyes were a mix of pain, sadness, helplessness, and desperate pleading. I couldn’t take it anymore. I plunged off the bus without a second thought. The moment my feet hit the asphalt, a wave of relief washed over me. I looked back. The bus full of passengers watched me with innocent eyes. As the door closed and the bus began to move again, I saw chilling, knowing smiles spread across each of their faces through the window. At that moment, I didn’t understand why they were smiling. Not until a sharp pain shot through my ankle. I looked down. A skeletal hand, bits of decaying flesh clinging to it, crawling with maggots and glistening with green slime, was clamped tightly around my ankle. The asphalt beneath me began to crack and crumble, transforming into a churning sea of blood. Darkness enveloped everything. Thousands upon thousands of ghostly hands reached for me. They dragged my ankle, pulling me down into the bloody abyss. The only light in the darkness was the bus’s tail lights. In that moment, something clicked. I thrashed wildly, stretching my hand out, trying to claw my way back onto the bus. But more and more ghostly hands grabbed me. The bus slowly drove out of sight, and I was dragged down into hell.

I regretted so much not following those rules. I regretted it so, so much… Suddenly, a cacophony of voices reached my ears. “Stop pretending to be asleep! Can’t you see she’s holding a baby? Give her your seat!” “Seriously! You’re young, how can you be so sleepy? Get up and let her sit!” “Kids these days, no respect for their elders, no sense of decency.” “This generation is doomed! Absolutely hopeless!” … I opened my eyes, looking around. The endless chatter and pointing from the crowd… that’s when I slowly realized that everything I’d just experienced was a dream. But it felt so… terrifyingly real.

I looked at the woman with the baby, swaying unsteadily. I stood up, ready to help her into the seat. Suddenly, I saw Mr. Thorne staring at me, his eyes fixed on me with a chilling glint. My blood ran cold. My breath hitched. The pain in my ankle felt as real as if it were actually there. Cold sweat trickled down my temples. Better safe than sorry. I immediately sat back down. All the passengers on the bus, including the woman with the baby, glared at me with a mix of fury and disbelief. I bit down hard on my teeth, clenched my fists, and stayed silent in my seat. The woman stared intensely at me. Even though I felt like I was about to wet myself, I stared back, refusing to back down.

The woman hadn’t said a word, not one. It was like her eyes were trying to force me to give up my seat. My own gaze firmly screamed, “No way!” She stood there for a while until someone in the crowd finally waved her over. “Please, sit here. You can have my seat.” At this, a faint, chilling smile flickered on the woman’s otherwise impassive face. Holding her baby, and wearing those narrow, pointed blue embroidered shoes, she glided, rather than walked, taking tiny, almost imperceptible steps, swaying slightly as she went. The woman sat down. The young man who’d offered his seat, Alex, stood next to her and smiled reassuringly. Suddenly, the woman turned to him and said, “Thank you. Could you hold my baby for a moment? I need to find something.” Alex, being helpful, took the baby from her arms. I watched him for a long time. Everything seemed perfectly normal. Nothing happened. I suddenly felt so foolish. It was just a seat, what could happen? What was I even so scared of? It must be all the stress from school getting to me, making me hallucinate. I let out a long breath, leaned back in my seat, and decided to rest my eyes. Just two more stops, and I’d be there.

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I went against my family’s objections and married the chauffeur’s son. Three years into our marriage, I helped Jude rise to the position of the company’s second-in-command. “Honey, this appointment ceremony is all thanks to you. I’ll love you forever.” He endured harsh trials to marry me, kneeling in the pouring rain for three days and nights, silently enduring my father’s wrath, and shielding me in a car accident, nearly at the cost of his own life. After marriage, he treated me with endless care, just as he always had. I never regretted marrying him. The night before the promotion ceremony, I wanted to surprise him with the news that my father had agreed to give him shares. But I overheard intimate whispers from the study door! Through the crack, I saw it was Cora, the illegitimate daughter, with my husband! “Baby, after tomorrow, the company will be ours. I’ve waited for this day for so long.” “If you hadn’t endured so much to marry Nora, we wouldn’t have what we do today. You’ve worked hard, my dear.” I was in shock, overwhelmed with pain. I couldn’t believe the man I loved was so deceitful! The next day, I personally handed the promotion gift to Jude, and he was stunned on the spot!

“Honey, look at this.” On a rainy night, I changed into a light nightgown and handed the document to Jude, who was still working. “Why aren’t you asleep yet? I have a lot of work tonight; don’t let it disturb your rest.” Jude held me close, not even glancing at the document in my hand, his heart and eyes full of me. “Take a look at what this is.” I gently blocked his attempt to kiss me, nodding towards the text on the table. Jude looked at me curiously, unsure of the little game I was playing. “This is…” Jude’s smile widened, filled with surprise and excitement. “The Vice Chairman’s appointment letter!” Jude exclaimed, almost standing up in excitement, nearly dropping me in the process. “Honey, I love you so much! How did you convince those old fossils?” Jude’s eyes sparkled with joy as he kissed my cheek. “It wasn’t that hard. Although my dad threatened to cut ties with me, blood is thicker than water. Promoting you is also for my own good.” I lowered my eyes, happy for him. Jude is the son of our family’s chauffeur, from a humble background. My dad ordered us to break up, but I defied my whole family and married him. Because of his sincerity, he knelt for days in the rain to marry me, becoming gravely ill and recovering only with difficulty. He also shielded me when my dad raised a stick, leaving scars on his back and nearly breaking his arm. What finally convinced me to marry him was the car accident, where he protected me and was in a coma, his life hanging by a thread. I was hopelessly in love and immediately chose to elope with him, marrying him without hesitation, even if it made me a laughingstock in all of Seattle and a topic of gossip in the business world. As long as I was with Jude, I’d be happy. “You’ve worked hard.” I gently caressed the scar on his arm from saving me, my heart softening. “As long as it’s for you, it’s not hard. I will make Mr. Sullivan see me in a new light and acknowledge me as his son-in-law!” Jude pressed his forehead against mine, holding me tightly. “Honey, this appointment ceremony is all thanks to you. I’ll love you forever.” “Me too.” I replied sweetly, squeezing his hand. After marriage, I used all my business knowledge and natural talent to help him climb to his current position. Everyone said he married me for the Sullivan family’s power and to take over my company, but I didn’t think so. Even though I helped him climb, he treated me as he always did, caring for me tenderly, never frequenting nightlife, and keeping his phone clean, giving me a sense of security. “By the way, Nora, there’s something I’m worried about.” Jude furrowed his brows, seeming troubled. “Just tell me, there’s no need to hide anything between us.” Jude sighed: “Ultimately, it’s because I’m useless. I even have to ask you for help with this. I’m worried that even if I meet the board, I’ll be ostracized because I have no real power or shares. I don’t mind, but I’m afraid they’ll talk about you.” Jude lowered his head in disappointment, showing a dissatisfied look with himself. “I’d like to see who dares to talk. You’re the best. You need to believe in yourself. Mainly, the Sullivan family didn’t agree to our marriage. Even though my dad turns a blind eye to my little moves, this matter of shares isn’t easy to resolve.” I bit my lower lip, feeling worried. “It’s okay, Nora. I’m already content to have you by my side. I’m a man; I must solve these things myself.” After speaking, he groaned in pain, and I quickly massaged his temples. “Is your head hurting again? You’ve been working hard for the company lately.” “It’s not hard. Thinking about how you betrayed your family for me makes me feel guilty. I vowed to make you happy, so these hardships are nothing to me.” Jude looked at me with tender affection. Deep in his emotions, he suddenly kissed me, followed by a storm of passion, leaving me weak all over, unable to lift a finger afterward. “When Mr. Sullivan acknowledges me, we’ll have a child.” Jude gently rubbed my sore waist, flirting in my ear. I blushed, pouting playfully, without responding. The next morning, Jude left for the company early. I was still worried about the shares and planned to swallow my pride and visit the Sullivan family. “You still know how to come back!” As soon as I entered, a teacup was thrown at my feet, water splashing on my skirt. “Dad…” I moved my lips, lowering my head in shame: “I’m your daughter, why can’t I come back?” “Didn’t you say you wanted to cut ties with me to marry that poor boy? What are you doing back here now?” My dad was coughing in anger, and Cora immediately went up to pat his back. Cora is the illegitimate daughter. My mom, kind-hearted, took her in after learning she was gravely ill. For this, my dad always felt guilty towards my mom and me. “Don’t be angry, Dad. Sister came back with good intentions to see you.” Cora was gentle and well-mannered. After I left home, she became deeply favored by my father, always by his side learning the company affairs. “Dad, I came back this time to discuss something with you.” I coldly glanced at Cora, who seemed unwilling to leave. “What do you need from the Sullivan family? How capable are you?” My dad scolded me with a reproachful look. Though he was angry about my involvement with the chauffeur’s son, he couldn’t bring himself to abandon me out of guilt. “I suddenly want to eat Aunt May’s snacks. Cora, please tell Aunt May for me.” I found an excuse to send Cora away. She seemed reluctant but still poured new tea for my dad before leaving. After she left, my dad lowered his gaze to me, quietly waiting for me to state my purpose. “You must have helped Jude successfully join the board, right?” I got straight to the point without any pleasantries. “From the bottom of my heart, I look down on that punk. Letting him join the board is already my mercy. But I’m warning you, if there’s any mistake, you both can get lost!” My dad said harshly, but there was no hatred in his eyes. “I’m here this time also for the board’s matter. I know I’ve been unfilial, unable to make you happy, but Jude truly has the company’s best interests at heart. He’s been devoted to it for three years since we married, so I hope you can put aside your bias and give him a chance.” “What’s your purpose?” My dad abruptly interrupted, his sharp eyes staring at me ominously. “Shares.” I spoke cautiously, watching my dad’s facial changes. As expected, he raised the teacup in his hand, ready to throw it at me. “Unfilial daughter! If you were half as reliable as your sister, I wouldn’t be getting worse! How dare you come back asking for shares!” “Dad, you should know those uncles and aunts on the board aren’t easy to deal with. I’ve worked hard to get Jude to where he is today. Should I let him be bullied? I know you have animosity towards him, but we’re already married. Please, for my and Mom’s sake, help us this once.” I stepped forward, respectfully bowing to my father. “Do you know what you’re saying? You’re giving Sullivan family shares to an outsider! I always suspected that kid had ulterior motives. I don’t know what spell he’s cast on you!” Hearing my mom’s name, my dad’s tone softened a bit. He anxiously tried to dissuade me, hoping I’d come to my senses. “In the three years since marrying him, he’s never wronged me. I know my own heart in these matters, Dad, there’s no need to persuade me anymore. I just want some shares to pave the way for him. I’ll do whatever it takes.” My dad opened his mouth but said nothing, just clenched his fist and slammed it on the table. “Forget it. Some things can’t be taught by others; experience teaches better. I hope you won’t regret it in the future.” My dad took a deep breath, letting out a heavy sigh. Hearing my mom’s name, my dad’s tone softened. He anxiously tried to dissuade me, hoping I’d reconsider. “In the three years I’ve been married to him, he’s never done anything to betray me. I know what I’m doing, Dad, you don’t need to persuade me anymore. I just want some shares. As long as I can smooth the path for him, I’ll do anything.” I opened my mouth to speak, but no words came out. Instead, I clenched my fist and pounded it on the table. “Fine, some lessons can’t be taught by others—only experience can teach them. I hope you won’t regret this in the future.” My dad took a deep breath and sighed heavily. “If you’re determined to be with that young man, then don’t meddle in the company’s affairs anymore. I’ll give you the shares, consider it my way of making amends to you and your mom.” My dad rubbed his temples wearily, showing a pained expression. “Thank you, Dad. I believe Jude will make you proud.” “Leave now, I don’t want to see you anymore.” My dad ordered me out, and everyone in the Sullivan family ignored me. They even whispered behind my back as I passed by. But I was used to all of this. One day, I’d prove to my father that my choice was right. I returned home excitedly with the share transfer document, planning to surprise Jude after work. As soon as I got home, before even changing my clothes, I noticed a pair of high heels at the entryway. They were the ones Jude gifted me. “Why aren’t these shoes on the rack?” I placed them neatly on the shoe rack, thinking I must have been careless and forgot them in my hurry. I didn’t think much of it. Tomorrow was Jude’s inauguration ceremony. I planned to give him the share transfer document as a gift. Imagining his ecstatic expression made me smile sweetly. “Jude, you’re hurting me.” I was about to make a sumptuous dinner for Jude to celebrate when suddenly, I heard faint moaning from upstairs. I was startled. No one should be home at this time. For safety, I grabbed a baseball bat and cautiously went upstairs. The sounds came from the study. The coquettish female voice and deep breathing were unmistakable. I didn’t need to guess what was happening. I gripped the bat tightly, slowly approaching the study door. To my surprise, there was a crack. Peering through, I witnessed a scene that I’d never forget! A man and woman intertwined, moving rhythmically. And the main characters were my husband and Cora!

I froze, my pupils contracting sharply. The scene before me felt like a sledgehammer to my skull, leaving my breath stuck in my throat. I had never seen Jude with such intensity, as if he wanted to consume Cora whole. Cora’s face was flushed, writhing her waist, letting out soft moans of extreme pleasure. My face turned ashen, my lips trembled, devoid of any color. My eyes were empty, like a dried-up well, and the air seemed heavy with despair. How could they be together like this? I asked myself countless times, and each time, my heart ached more, until it hurt so much that my breath tasted of blood. Only then did I realize the scene before me wasn’t a nightmare. I held the bat tightly, trying not to drop it, but my body felt weak, as if unraveling, collapsing to the ground. My nails dug deeply into my palms, blood seeping out without me noticing. “Darling, once tomorrow is over, the company will be ours. I’ve waited for this day for a long time.” “If it weren’t for you enduring the humiliation to marry Nora, we wouldn’t have today. Thank you, my dear.” “As long as I can make you the true heir of the Sullivan family, I’ll do anything. I’ve had enough of being Nora’s dog. I only love you.” “Today, that woman angered Dad over your shares. Dad’s already handed the company over to me. Our scheme to sow discord is really paying off. Soon, they’ll all be under my feet!” In their moment of passion, they laughed heartily, their sweet words interrupted by the sound of kissing. Curled up in the corner, I tugged at my hair, my knuckles turning white, a broken sob escaping my throat. The man I loved deeply was conspiring with an illegitimate daughter to scheme against me and my family! Was his sincerity in marrying me just for Cora? Those scars, those times of enduring humiliation, were they not for me at all? I was filled with hate, but the most painful and despairing thing was that Jude wasn’t wooing me for power, but for another woman! The love that moved me, that I was grateful for, was all for Cora! The one I loved was always the false him, his deep affection was for another woman. I don’t know how I got back to my bedroom, my legs felt like they were filled with lead, dragging me into an abyss. Jude and Cora didn’t stop until dusk, sweaty and laughing, they mocked me as they passed my room. “Good thing Nora isn’t home, otherwise how would we have such a pleasant afternoon.” “I’m only happy when I’m with you. Seeing her face disgusts me.” They laughed together, their flirtatious voices fading until I heard the door close. The house became eerily silent, allowing me to finally breathe and cry out in pain. “Why do this to me?” I gritted my teeth, pounding the bed, then suddenly lifted my head. My eyes, bloodshot, fixed on the wedding photo on the wall. I grabbed a nearby ornament and smashed it. The glass shattered all over the floor. I frantically picked up a fruit knife and scratched Jude’s face on the photo until I was too exhausted to cry anymore. I slumped to the ground, noticing the fresh cuts on my hand. I smirked bitterly at my foolishness, for truly believing his sincerity. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw the share transfer document on the bed. An idea sparked in my mind. Since Jude and Cora knew I’d give the shares to Jude tomorrow as a gift, and she was so eager to be the Sullivan heir, I had to prepare a grand gift! “Dear, I won’t be home tonight. Still got work to do. See you at the inauguration ceremony tomorrow morning.” Jude sent a cute emoticon, making me want to vomit. He couldn’t even keep up the act before taking office, not wanting to spend another second with me. I snorted coldly and replied with a simple “Okay.” The next morning, I packed the gift I had prepared for Jude into a gift box and tossed it into the back seat of the car before heading to the company. “Honey, you’re here.” Jude’s eyes lit up as he adjusted his suit cuffs. “Of course, I have to be here for your big day.” I subtly linked my arm with his to lower his guard. “Sister, I thought you’d never come back to the company.” Cora swayed over, giving Jude a meaningful look before quickly turning away. “How could I not? I’m the only heir of the Sullivan family after all.” I smiled with hidden intent, seeing Cora’s face stiffen with jealousy. Jude quickly interrupted our conversation, as his inauguration ceremony was about to start. My dad and all the board members would be present. I finally understood why he always talked about the shares. In such a setting, if I gave him some of the Sullivan shares, it would indirectly acknowledge him as the family son-in-law, which was a huge boon for him and Cora. Thinking of this, I showed a deep smile. “I’m very happy to become a member of the Sullivan Group’s board of directors today. None of this would be possible without my wife, Nora. Thank you for your support and companionship. In the future, we will work hand in hand to achieve great things!” From Jude’s enthusiastic voice, you could tell how proud he was. After he finished speaking, I took the prepared gift box and went on stage. “I’m very pleased with Jude reaching this position, so I specially prepared a gift for Mr. Jude.” With that, I handed the gift box to Jude. “Thank you, honey.” He smiled broadly, thinking it contained the share transfer document. He took a deep breath, smiling as he opened the box. Instantly, the smile vanished, the box fell, and Jude was shocked. Inside the box was our divorce certificate.

“What happened? Why are you so scared? Don’t you like the gift I gave you?” I sneered, bending down to pick up the fallen box. “But it was carefully prepared for you. How could you bear to drop it? Isn’t this gift what you’ve been longing for?” With a sarcastic tone, I pressed forward, watching Jude’s face change subtly. “What does this mean, honey? Don’t joke around, so many people are watching.” Jude, feeling guilty, spoke in a panic. “It’s precisely because so many people are watching that I have to give you this! Jude, we’re no longer married.” As soon as I said this, everyone reacted with shock. The rumors said I defied my family for a driver’s son, not fearing ridicule, deeply in love, and unwavering. How could it be like this? “What nonsense are you talking about, Nora? Did you misunderstand something? Don’t scare me.” Jude pretended to grab my hand, which I quickly avoided. “What’s the meaning of this, dear? Stop playing games, everyone’s watching,” Jude said anxiously, visibly shaken. “It’s because everyone’s watching that I’m giving you this! Jude, we’re no longer husband and wife.” As soon as I said it, the room fell silent in shock. Everyone had heard the rumors that I defied my family for the driver’s son, unafraid of ridicule, deeply in love with him forever. How could this scene be unfolding now? “What are you saying, Nora? Did you misunderstand something? Don’t scare me.” Jude pretended to reach for my hand, but I quickly pulled away. “Don’t touch me!” I shouted, glaring at him. “You make me sick! I haven’t misunderstood anything; I just don’t want to be with you anymore. These divorce papers are my gift to you.” I walked over to the master of ceremonies and picked up the contract, examining it for a few seconds. Jude was visibly anxious. “Also, since you’re no longer part of the Sullivan family, there’s no need for you to be on the board of directors.” I tore up the contract, letting the pieces scatter in the air. As they fell, I saw the despair in Jude’s eyes. “Nora, why are you suddenly treating me like this? Haven’t I been good enough?” “Yeah, sister, this is not a place for jokes. Being so willful, where does that leave Dad’s dignity?” Cora chimed in, trying to stir trouble. “You two are really in sync.” I approached Cora with a cold expression. “Were you and Jude this coordinated when you were having an affair?” My voice was low but clear enough for everyone to hear. “What! This woman is messing around with Ms. Sullivan’s husband? How shameless!”

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On the tenth anniversary of my marriage to my childhood friend, Finn, he was killed in a car accident. While going through his things, I stumbled upon a beautiful red velvet box in his study. Inside was a diamond hairpin, placed with such care and reverence. I recognized it immediately. In high school, my twin sister, Eloise, wore it all the time. 1. I couldn’t tell if the ten years we spent together were genuine or just a facade, and soon after, I died due to a gas leak. When I opened my eyes again, I found myself back in my second year of high school. I lay in bed, feverish and weak, unable to move even a finger. The house was empty. My parents had taken Eloise on a trip abroad to celebrate her top-three ranking in exams, while I stayed home to study due to my poor results. I struggled to reach for my phone on the bedside table, nearly collapsing from exhaustion. It happened the same way in my previous life, but someone came to save me, stirring my lifeless heart and leading to ten years of deception. Half-awake from the pounding headache, someone was carrying me. He anxiously called my name, and I leaned against his strong, lean back, feeling secure and surrounded by the scent of his laundry detergent. Finn, our ten-year marriage was a sham, but why were you the only one to save me in my despair? A hot tear rolled down my cheek and onto his collar. When I woke up, I was in the hospital. A nurse came by to remove my IV and smiled. “Your classmate went to get you some food. You can wait here for a while.” I looked at the bruised needle marks on my hand and shook my head. “I want to go home. Could you please let him know, nurse?” Dragging my recovering body home, I opened the door to find the house filled with laughter. My arrival silenced everything, leaving an eerie stillness. Griffin frowned. “It’s so late, why are you just getting back? You did poorly on this exam and still had the nerve to go out. Can’t you learn from your sister? I’d be thanking my lucky stars if you were half as considerate as she is.” Tension filled the air, ready to ignite. Eloise silently retreated to her room with her gift bag. Beatrix went to the master bedroom, came back with a metal hanger, and said coldly, “Kneel.” Suppressing my exhaustion, I just wanted the farce to end quickly. I knelt obediently. The sound of the hanger slicing through the air was sharp, and it hit my back hard. I stifled my painful groan, cold sweat dripping from my forehead. I didn’t know how long it took before Beatrix put the hanger away, saying coldly, “Go away.” I gritted my teeth and stood up. As I did, my vision went dark, and I almost fell. Supporting myself against the wall, I walked step by step back to my room, hearing Beatrix’s voice behind me. “I don’t know what you’re pretending for.” I pretended not to hear, closed the door, and after a while, it opened again. Eloise tiptoed in with a small shopping bag. She grabbed my hand, checking the treated needle marks, her body trembling, her fingertips cold. “Are you sick? Why didn’t you say anything?” I pulled back my hand and said indifferently, “What’s the difference? Whether it’s for going out or talking back, I’d still be beaten.” Holding her cold hand, I smiled, “I’m the one getting hit, not you. What are you afraid of?” Eloise was silent for a moment, “Will they treat me like this one day?” Surprised, I reassured her with a smile, “No, they love you so much.” Eloise seemed to ponder something, shook her head, and handed me the shopping bag. “Open it, I got you a gift from abroad. Do you like it?” I didn’t need to look to know what it was. Inside was the diamond hairpin Finn had cherished for ten years. In the previous life, Eloise had given it to me too. But it was like Cinderella wearing glass slippers before her transformation, a mismatch. I wore it only once before returning it to Eloise. The sparkling diamond hairpin suited her, dressed beautifully and expensively every day, much more than it did plain and shabby me. “It’s not for me.” I refused Eloise without even opening the bag. She didn’t insist, after all, she liked the hairpin very much. 2. Having not slept all night, I got up early. In this situation, it’s hard to sleep, unexpectedly returning to the nightmare of my youth. “Eloise, hurry up, Finn is waiting downstairs.” I slowly packed my books. Finn was our neighbor across the door. Except for high school, the three of us were always classmates from childhood. In the past life, I thought it was a childhood friend’s fate. Now, knowing the truth, it seems the childhood sweetheart wasn’t me. Eloise suddenly opened my door, clinging to my arm, acting coy. “Can you find an excuse to leave early after school?” Looking at the shy girl before me, I understood. I was in the way. I nodded. “From today, you don’t have to wait for me to go to and from school.” “Great!” Eloise cheered, not finding anything wrong. On the way to school, they walked side by side. I followed a few steps behind, watching them. The refined boy and the pretty girl seemed like a perfect match. And I was just someone deeply insecure and sensitive, wishing to disappear from everyone’s view on the road. I sneered inside, wondering how I believed Finn truly liked me in the past life. Seeing Finn’s figure, thoughts of the ten-year deceitful marriage filled me with uncontainable resentment. Up ahead, Finn suddenly stopped, turning back to meet my resentful gaze. His steps faltered, hesitated for a moment, and asked, “Sage, how are you feeling? Has your fever gone down? The nurse told me you left the hospital.” I shook my head, saying nothing. Finn’s concern now overlapped with the past life’s deceit, leaving me unable to discern if he genuinely cared or had other motives. Seeing my cold attitude, Finn didn’t push further, just slowed his pace to walk with me. But I distanced myself, walking even slower. After tugging back and forth, Finn finally fell a few steps behind me. His eyes were cold, lingering on my neck. Returning to class, the noisy room fell silent instantly. Some girls sneered at me again. “The ugly duckling is here to escort the prince and princess to school.” Ignoring their harsh words, I cleaned the trash from my desk and approached them. “No matter how much you ridicule me, Finn won’t look at you.” “And stop stuffing your trash in my desk. This isn’t a dump.” The girl was stunned, not expecting the usually timid and quiet me to retort. Realizing it, she was furious, smacking the trash bag from my hand. “What makes you think you can talk to me like that!” Some boys who liked her glared at me, and others just watched, offering no help. But it’s okay. I learned this truth long ago. “If you’re upset, we can go to the teacher. I can tell them how you’ve been stuffing trash and mice in my desk since the start of school.” My sudden toughness caught the girl off guard. She stammered, “Fine, you’ll pay for this.” I knew she wouldn’t let it go, but I didn’t expect her to lock me in the bathroom. “You dare mess with me? This bathroom has some mice. You deserve to stay with them.” The squeaking echoed through the bathroom, and I saw a few rats, the length of an adult’s forearm, near the corner pipe, slick and shiny, their eyes darting at me. “Aren’t you afraid I’ll tell the teacher?” Saying that made me want to laugh. It sounded so much like a child’s tattletale. A boy’s voice answered, “There are no cameras here. If we don’t admit it, who will believe you?” Things were getting tricky. I promised Eloise I wouldn’t walk home with them tonight, and now this. No one would come looking for me. I sighed, finding a clean corner to crouch down. In class, I was always quiet, my grades average, practically invisible. But Eloise was my sister, outspoken, direct, with low emotional intelligence, offending many people. Compared to pretty, smart Eloise, I was the easy target for those she’d upset. 3. Night deepened, the damp, stinking bathroom growing restless, rats occasionally brushing against my legs, making my skin crawl. Suppressing my fear and frustration, I waited for the long night to pass. “Sage? Are you in there?” “Finn?” Hearing my voice, Finn grew more urgent. “Step away from the door!” The bathroom door was violently kicked open, and Finn stood there, catching his breath, meeting my eyes. The door had been locked, and Finn had pounded on it so hard his arm was bleeding, blood trickling down. I had prepared myself to stay here all night, not expecting him to find me. Why was it always him, appearing when I was desperate? Why him? My heart was in turmoil, resentment replaced by an indescribable emotion, filling me, bringing tears to my eyes. The lights in the school building were already off, and Finn stood shrouded in darkness, his emotions unreadable. His voice was low. The bathroom door was kicked open harshly, and the young man, out of breath, looked at me with his eyes lowered. The door had been locked, and Finn hit it so hard that blood started to slowly drip down his arm. I was ready to stay here all night, not expecting it would be him who found me. Why does he always show up when I’m in trouble? Why is it always him? My heart was a whirlwind of emotions, with resentment replaced by an inexplicable feeling that made my eyes well up with tears. The school building’s lights had long been turned off, and Finn was hidden in the darkness, his emotions unreadable. His voice was low. “Weren’t we supposed to go to and from school together? I’ve been waiting for you for a long time.” I nodded, unsure of what to say. Finn suddenly spoke up. “Sage, why don’t you want to go to and from school with me anymore? Do you really dislike me?” I was taken aback. In my past experiences, Finn and I didn’t interact much before graduating from college, and now things seem to be following that same path. How could there be any talk of dislike? “Eloise said you really dislike me, and my parents always compare my grades to yours. I’m sorry.” “I can help you with your studies. Can you stop disliking me then?” Finn turned his head away, not daring to look at me, his fair earlobes turning red. I thought I was hearing things. Seeing I didn’t respond, Finn spoke again. “Let’s go to school together again tomorrow. I’ll wait for you.” With that, Finn disappeared, leaving me standing there in a daze. When I finally stumbled back home, Griffin, who had been waiting for a long time, kicked me over. “It’s so late, where have you been? What kind of girl comes home this late after school? If you were as self-respecting as your sister, I wouldn’t have to worry so much!” I lay in pain on the ground, unable to get up for a long time. Beatrix sat on the sofa, holding a clothes hanger. “You need a beating to remember. Look at you, what’s the difference between you and animals out there?” She pulled Eloise, who was standing beside her, down to squat. Eloise’s body was stiff, but she obediently crouched down. Beatrix patted her head with satisfaction. “That’s how to be good. Don’t be like your sister and make me worry.” She lovingly caressed Eloise’s cheek, not seeing her instant pale face and slightly trembling hands. Just when I thought I was out of options tonight, desperately trying to think of a way out. “Auntie.” Finn returned and, seeing me on the ground, quickly helped me up. “Sage didn’t do well on this exam, so I tutored her longer than expected. I lost track of time. Auntie, don’t blame her.” Beatrix put the hanger behind her and smiled. “No problem, it’s late. Hurry home.” Finn was sent away, and Beatrix, losing interest, tossed the hanger aside. “Go back to your room.” I was a bit surprised. I didn’t expect a casual word from Finn would make Beatrix let me off. I was also surprised Finn appeared when I was in danger. In the room, Eloise appeared at some point, looking at me with a somewhat resentful gaze. “You did it on purpose, didn’t you?” I frowned, not knowing what Eloise was talking about. “You promised me you wouldn’t go to and from school with Finn anymore, and then you turn around and play this trick. Sage, are you playing games with me?” I didn’t expect Eloise to like Finn. I patiently explained. “It was an unexpected situation today.” Eloise’s expression twisted a bit, and then she smiled. “You like Finn? Sage, do you think you deserve him?” “Do you even look at yourself? You dare to compete with me?” I was stunned. The sister who would cry when I was beaten, who always bought me nice things when we went out, actually thought I was someone who could be trampled on. Thinking of Finn and my sister’s closeness, Eloise couldn’t bear it anymore. Her sharp nails dug into her palms as she tore off the facade of sisterly harmony. “I’m really fed up! You’re not better than me in any way. Why do our parents always compare me to you?” Eloise fiercely wiped away her tears, her gaze fierce. “When I was young, I didn’t understand why our parents always hit you. I felt sorry for you but didn’t dare to resist them, fearing they’d treat me the same way one day.” “Later, I realized it. The one favored isn’t important, nor is the one ignored. What’s important is that the family needs a scapegoat.” “Sage, do you know? Every time they treated you like that, I couldn’t sleep at night from fear, and my heart ached! I studied desperately, trying to improve myself to have more value in their eyes, so they’d continue choosing you as the scapegoat.” Eloise covered her face in pain, her body trembling. “They love me because I have value. You love me hoping I’d speak for you. Only Finn loves me because he would protect me with his life.” “When I was bullied as a child, he was the only one who, despite having no relation to me, would do anything to protect me.” Eloise’s beautiful face was full of tears, her eyes red. “I won’t let anyone take him away!” No one knew how scared she was inside. Every time Sage was beaten, the connection between the twins made her feel Sage’s pain. She knew that if she lost her value, their parents would treat her like Sage. Only Finn could offer her a moment of relief from the fear and suffocation. But why, why take Finn away, why leave her in complete darkness? I’m unable to proceed with the translation as it appears there is no text provided. Could you please supply the Chinese text that needs translating? 4. I recall what Eloise mentioned. There was a group of boys in our neighborhood who enjoyed picking on others. Back then, Eloise was pretty but shy, making her an easy target for their antics. Whenever I tried to defend my sister, I’d end up getting bullied too.

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On my wedding day, it was exposed that I was tied to the murder of my fiancé’s father. He publicly called off the wedding and placed the ring on my cousin’s finger. I walked down the aisle, scorned by everyone. The hundred billion CEO gave a villa as a dowry to marry me in public, blocking everyone’s mouth. Deeply moved, I accepted. Three years later, I joyfully brought my ultrasound report to his office, only to overhear him talking with his close friend Jude and my cousin. “Are you two betting on whose child it will be? I can’t wait to see her reaction.” It turned out I was just a pawn in their game. Wiping away my tears, I called his business rival, “I have something you want and a million-dollar deal. Interested?” Laughter filled the office, chilling me to the core. “Finn really spoils me. The murder accusation was your doing. She always wanted to have a child with you, not knowing you swapped her fertility pills for birth control.” “If I weren’t curious about whose child it would be, she wouldn’t even have a chance to be a mother.” Finn adjusted his glasses, “Both have a 50% chance of winning. Maybe we should bet on who wins. The loser has to buy at least three villas on the most expensive land for Cora.” Concerned about their pride, they agreed. Cora toyed with my private photos, sitting on the desk, laughing. “I took these photos on the spot, can’t wait to see her face when she finds out the truth.” Finn placed his glasses on the desk with a touch of malice. “No one lets her know!” Cora, with a hint of jealousy, said, “Finn, feeling sorry for her?” “Not quite, just afraid she’ll abort once she knows, making the bet pointless,” Finn replied, engrossed in his papers. The photos annoyed him, so he tossed them precisely outside the door. Quickly, I grabbed the photos and walked out. Everyone’s gaze felt like I was exposed. Back home, I downed a glass of strong liquor. The fiery taste hit my stomach, and tears streamed down. The words from the office replayed in my mind. The day before the wedding, I received an anonymous package. The text and photos exposed my father as a murderer, with the victim being my fiancé’s father. After seeing it, he hugged me and said, “Let’s not let the previous generation’s matters affect us.” But at the wedding, the screen showed the text and photos. His abandonment turned me into an outcast. Finn appeared, offering a villa’s deed as a dowry to marry me, silencing everyone. He claimed he loved me and would never marry another if he couldn’t marry me. His determined gaze moved me. Now, I realize it was all part of their game. No wonder, on the wedding day, Cora looked at me with that strange smile. She mocked my foolishness, proud to have me as her plaything. I once endured bitter medicine hoping for his child. Every night, he handed me milk, and I drank it, unaware of the switch. These three years of companionship were just Finn’s act to gain my trust. Familiar perfume enveloped me from behind, a hand resting on my belly. “I heard you went to the hospital today. Are you pregnant?” Holding the glass I drank from, he said, “If you are, you shouldn’t drink.” Seeing my red eyes, he asked, “Who made my beloved wife cry? I’ll teach them a lesson.” He wiped my tears carelessly. He then asked the maid to remove all the alcohol, telling me to punish anyone I disliked. I shook my head; they were innocent. But he had the maid taken to feed the tigers.

I tried to stop it, but he took me to see it firsthand. “She failed to watch you and let you near alcohol, she deserves it.” His words decided life and death. The bloody scene made me nauseous, and I rushed to the restroom. He looked at me with genuine concern, a stark contrast to his office demeanor. “Let’s go to the hospital. Seeing you like this, I feel bad too.” I stared at his seemingly deep affection and nodded. At the hospital, Cora and Jude were at the obstetrics entrance. The next second, he told the doctor to perform amniocentesis. I realized their intention. The doctor, shocked, said, “The child is just forming, anesthesia can’t be used, it will harm the mother.” “Do it anyway,” his words pushed me into despair. As he approached, I hoped for support. Instead, he reassured, “It’s just to check the child’s health.” I almost applauded his acting skills. Inside, I heard him eagerly tell the doctor, “Check our DNA too.” Outside, people whispered, “No wonder she came for DNA so early. She must’ve done something shameful.” “No anesthesia, it’s definitely not her husband’s child.” The doctor’s demeanor changed to rough indifference. Enduring pain, I slowly exited. The doctor said the report would take a week. Finn wanted to carry me to the car, but Cora left without looking back. Jude followed her, and Finn tossed me aside to chase Cora. Clutching my belly, I struggled to the hospital entrance, blocked by passersby. “How much for a night? Pregnant women must be fun.” “She’s free!” I boarded the waiting car, enduring the insults. Returning home, I found my beloved dog dead in the rain. I ran to hold it. In the distance, I saw Finn bandaging Cora’s wound. After hearing from his men, he glanced at me before returning to Cora. He brought her over, looking down at me. “That mad dog bit Cora, so it’s silenced.” Red-eyed, I said, “It’s always been gentle, never bitten anyone.” Cora weakly caressed her bitten hand, “Nora, are you accusing me of falsely blaming the dog?” “I don’t even know if I should get a rabies vaccine.” Finn waved, and the dog was thrown into the trash. I screamed, “No.” “Nora, it’s just a dog. If you want, I’ll have someone buy another.” Then he left with Cora. The dog was a birthday gift from my parents. I’d told him. Now, because of Cora, it could never accompany me again. I ignored them, retrieving the dog from the trash, giving it a proper burial in the rain.

Inside, I saw his forgotten phone on the table. Ignoring my wet clothes, I unlocked it with Cora’s birthday. Their sweet wallpaper stung my heart. In Snapchat, a pinned chat caught my eye. I clicked it. The screen was filled with their conversations about me. The man I was to marry caught Cora’s eye. Unable to take him openly, she used underhanded means. My fiancé’s father was indeed murdered. But evidence was fabricated to frame my family, leaving my father restless in his grave. Further down, I saw videos of my intimacy in Cora’s hands, and Finn’s message crushed me. “She’s not as good as you. You know how to please.” Cora: “Then come over tonight. It’s your good brother’s turn there.” I pressed on, anger fueling me, ignoring the cold. Two days ago, I learned they long targeted my dog. Cora: “Your dog always barks at me. I’m scared.” Finn: “Come here, then I have a reason to deal with it.” I never imagined those words came from him. Seeing the chat album made my blood freeze. He once urgently needed a necklace for his younger cousin. I agreed, except for my most cherished one. He said, “Wife, you’re so kind. She’s lucky to have a sister-in-law like you.” Now, the necklace hung intact around Cora’s neck. Disbelieving, I checked the cabinet. It was gone. It was my mother’s gift for my 18th birthday. Staring at the photo, Cora’s arm bore a scar similar to mine. I knew her well, she never had scars. Before, we were the closest of cousins. I shared everything with her. After telling her about saving a bloodied Chinese in the Boundless Country, she distanced herself. Busy with work, I didn’t investigate. When we met again, she was Finn’s sworn sister, harboring hatred for me. I finally understood, “So that’s it.” Finn never knew my arm bore a scar, hidden with foundation. Checking the time, I guessed he’d soon return for his phone. I called his business rival. I used to be closest to my cousin, sharing everything with her first. But ever since I told her I saved an injured person in the Boundless Country, she grew distant. Busy with work, I didn’t look into it, and when I saw her again, she had become Finn’s adopted sister, looking at me with deep resentment. I instantly understood, “So that’s how it is.” Finn never knew about the scar on my arm, concealed with foundation. I glanced at the time, knowing he’d soon return for his phone. I dialed his business rival. “I can give you what you want and a million-dollar deal. Are you interested?” “What’s the catch?” “Kidnap me the day after tomorrow.” I gently touched my belly, “Finn will willingly pay for it.” Just as I put the phone down, he walked in, glaring at the phone. He hated anyone messing with his belongings. His demeanor was hostile as he looked at me, “You know everything?” I feigned ignorance, “What should I know?” Finn, seeing my soaked clothes, urged me to change. He didn’t forget to mention he had just taken Cora for a rabies vaccine. Standing in front of the bathroom mirror, I pulled at my skin, unable to smile. Messages on the phone replayed in my mind. I scrubbed myself clean, washing for an entire hour. Just as I came out dressed, I ran into Finn heading in. “I was worried you’d faint since you were in there so long.” “You’re not alone now, you’re two people. Don’t be reckless next time.” Before I could respond, he left in a hurry with his men. I started preparing the divorce agreement and recording.

I went out to the garden for some air, only to be dragged down by Cora. “How dare you treat me like this? I’m carrying Finn’s child.” She sat on the swing, looking down at me provocatively. “I had a friend rush the report; I’ll tell you first.” “The child could be anyone’s but definitely not Finn’s.” Hearing the known truth again pierced my heart. My eyes reddened, glaring at her. “The child I’m carrying is definitely Finn’s! If he knew, he wouldn’t spare you.” Cora laughed, crushing my face. “They’re betting on whose child it is in your belly. The loser has to buy me a villa.” “Turns out the child isn’t theirs but someone else’s.” I wanted to argue, but Jude walked over and pinched Cora’s waist. In my shocked gaze, he picked her up onto the swing, kissing her deeply. “To tell you the truth, when it was my turn, I found a beggar.” “Even a beggar can be with you. If not a bus, then what?” “Who knows whose child is in your belly!” While I was stunned, Jude kicked me, and two voices shouted simultaneously. Cora fell off the swing, and I looked on, confused. Finn had returned at some point, rushing to her side to help her up. “Are you okay? How could you be so careless?” Cora tearfully accused me. “Nora tampered with the swing, causing me to fall.” “Yes, and she also said the child is a bastard, isn’t that insulting you?” Jude quickly added. “Do you dare claim this child is yours?” I glared at Finn, eyes red. “` Feeling guilty under my gaze, he stammered, “It’s not mine! Then whose is it?” “This isn’t an excuse for you to hurt Cora!”

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Seven days before my daughter’s wedding, Evelyn, my wife, suddenly turned to me. 　　”Richard,” she said, “Chloe’s wedding day, maybe you shouldn’t go.” I was holding the speech I’d painstakingly copied from the internet, getting ready to practice it for the reception. Now, I was being told I couldn’t even attend my own daughter’s wedding. 　　”Why?” I asked, my voice laced with disbelief. 　　Evelyn replied, “Marcus is back in the States. He says he wants to walk his biological daughter down the aisle.” Just then, Chloe walked over, chiming in. “Uncle Richard, he *is* my biological father, after all. A blood relative. I want my dad to walk me down the aisle.” I looked at the mother and daughter before me. Fifteen years of my kindness had been thrown to the dogs. 　　A pair of ungrateful wretches. In my bitter disappointment, I picked up my phone and called the hotel. “Hello,” I said, “cancel the wedding banquet for seven days from now. Change it to my sixtieth birthday celebration instead.”

　　I was holding the speech I’d painstakingly copied from the internet, planning to memorize it for Chloe’s wedding day. Just then, Evelyn pushed open the door and sat beside me, a cup of tea in her hand. She hesitated, then finally spoke. 　　”Richard, it’s probably best if you don’t go to Chloe’s wedding. Maybe you should go somewhere else.” The speech slid from my trembling fingers. I stared at Evelyn, utterly bewildered. 　　”What did you say? Why?” Evelyn frowned, looking at me. “Marcus is back in the States. He said he wants to attend his biological daughter’s wedding. Chloe also said she wants her biological father to walk her down the aisle.” 　　*Biological*. That single word plunged me into an ice bath. My heart felt squeezed tight in a vice, stealing my breath. Seeing my hesitation, Chloe, who had been hiding at the doorway, pushed the door open and walked over, trying to persuade me. 　　”Uncle Richard, he *is* my biological father, after all. A blood relative. I want my dad to walk me down the aisle.” 　　*Uncle Richard?* Before Marcus came back, she always affectionately called me “Dad Richard.” 　　What, now that her biological father is back, I’m just “Uncle”? 　　It was utterly ironic. 　　I sat there on the bed, dazed. I remembered when Marcus abandoned them, mother and daughter, to go develop his business overseas. 　　If I hadn’t been soft-hearted enough to take them in, would they be where they are today? To make things official, I married Evelyn for my first marriage. For these fifteen years, I treated Chloe with absolute devotion, just like my own flesh and blood. 　　Fearing Chloe might feel neglected, Evelyn and I never had our own children all these years. 　　But what did I get for all my sacrifices? Just one phrase – “blood relative” – and all my fifteen years of effort were completely negated. My heart was filled with unbearable bitterness, like I’d swallowed pure gall. 　　As I fell deeper into thought, Evelyn’s next words instantly enveloped me in a bone-chilling cold that penetrated my skin and sank deep into my bones. 　　”Richard, what about that designer suit you bought for Chloe’s wedding? Why don’t you give it to Marcus? You won’t need it anyway, right?” 　　”He can wear it to Chloe’s wedding.” 　　Chloe, standing by, seemed to suddenly remember something. She rushed to my closet and began rummaging through it. 　　She carelessly tossed my clothes and shoes all over the floor. “Uncle Richard, what about those black leather shoes I gave you? Give them to my dad too. They’ll go perfectly with the black suit.” 　　”My dad will look so good in them. He’ll have some face at my wedding.” I stared at the mess on the floor, my clothes scattered and trampled underfoot by my daughter and wife. It felt like my fifteen years of effort were being crushed, carelessly discarded. Fifteen whole years, and I still hadn’t managed to warm the hearts of these two. My heart felt like it had been stabbed, then twisted violently, a gut-wrenching agony. 　　Fifteen years ago, Marcus abandoned them, mother and daughter, to venture into business, vanishing into thin air. 　　Now he was back, and I, their free ATM and laborer, was expected to step aside immediately. They really had it all figured out. 　　I picked up the crumpled speech from the floor, balled it up, and tossed it into the trash. 　　Smiling, I said to them, “Alright, I’ll leave when the time comes. Don’t worry.” 　　Seeing me agree, the mother and daughter beamed with joy and walked away. 　　But I wasn’t just leaving; I was abandoning them completely. 　　I pulled out my phone and called the hotel. “Cancel the wedding banquet for seven days from now,” I said. “Change it to my sixtieth birthday celebration instead.”

　　The next day, I woke up to a silent house. I pushed open my bedroom door; Chloe and Evelyn were already gone. 　　I tapped my phone screen, and it showed I’d been removed from the family SnapChat group. The last message read: “Welcome Marcus to the group.” 　　I opened SnapChat stories. Chloe and Evelyn were standing with Marcus, arms wrapped around him, the caption reading: 　　”Our family is finally reunited!” 　　For fifteen years, my face had never appeared in Evelyn or Chloe’s SnapChat stories. 　　But the moment Marcus returned, they couldn’t wait to make it public. 　　As if they were afraid everyone wouldn’t know they were a *real* family. 　　I used to think they just weren’t good at expressing their feelings. Now, I realized I just wasn’t worthy. 　　Smiling, I hit ‘like’ on Evelyn’s post. A few seconds later, the post was gone. 　　Suddenly, my phone rang. The moment I answered, Evelyn’s angry voice erupted. 　　”Richard, why did you like that post? What if Marcus sees it and gets mad?” 　　”You’d better not show your face around us until Chloe’s wedding, got it?” 　　”Can’t you even hold out for a few days?” 　　Before I could say a word, Evelyn hung up. 　　It was as if I’d committed some unforgivable crime. 　　Seething and hungry all morning, I went to a restaurant downstairs for lunch and unexpectedly ran into Chloe and Evelyn. 　　And, of course, that infuriating Marcus. 　　The moment they saw me, their faces were full of disdain. The silence was suffocating, even my breathing felt heavy. 　　When Evelyn and I locked eyes, I saw nothing but disgust in hers. 　　Chloe’s gaze, too, held a hint of impatience. 　　Then, Marcus approached me, holding a shot of whiskey, a provocative smirk on his face. 　　”You must be Richard,” he said. “Thanks for taking care of my wife and kid all these years.” 　　”This drink is for you, from me.” 　　He held the glass out to me. When I didn’t take it, he suddenly flashed a strange smile. 　　Then, he poured the entire drink onto his own chest. Since his back was to Evelyn and Chloe, they didn’t see it. Marcus then, the villain, played the victim first. 　　”Brother Richard, I offered you a drink out of goodwill to show my gratitude, and not only do you not appreciate it, but you throw a drink on me?” 　　Hearing that, Chloe and Evelyn rushed towards me almost simultaneously. 　　”Richard, I never thought you’d be so petty! What kind of trick is this?” Evelyn fumed. 　　Chloe glared at me, her face flushed with anger. “Uncle Richard, why are you acting like some common thug? Resorting to such low-class tactics!” 　　”Look what you did! You ruined the new shirt I bought for my dad!” 　　Marcus looked at me, a triumphant smirk plastered across his face, like the victor he saw himself as. 　　I watched the scene unfold, and it was nothing but pure irony. 　　Their words, at that moment, felt like slow torture, each one a knife twisting in my heart. I was truly experiencing an unprecedented torment. 　　They should have known what kind of person I was. Now, being falsely accused, all I could do was offer a self-deprecating smile. 　　A smile that mocked my inability to judge character. I had no intention of disturbing their happy family reunion and turned to leave. 　　But as I took my first step, Evelyn grabbed my left arm and Chloe grabbed my right, both holding me in place. They spoke in unison: 　　”Apologize to Marcus!” 　　”Apologize to my dad!”

　　My left arm was held by Evelyn, my right by Chloe. I couldn’t move. 　　It was clear they wouldn’t let me leave without an apology. 　　Behind me, Marcus looked on triumphantly. “It’s fine,” he said, emphasizing the words “our family.” “Let’s just get back to eating, our family.” 　　Only then did Evelyn and Chloe release me. The mother and daughter gave me a dirty look and followed Marcus back to their table. 　　As they walked away, I heard Evelyn mutter a sarcastic jab: “He really is getting more petty in his old age.” 　　Chloe chimed in, “Yeah, my dad’s so generous and big-hearted, unlike some people who are so narrow-minded.” 　　After I left the restaurant, I could hear their cheerful voices again: “Cheers to Dad, to my husband, for a successful return from overseas!” 　　And Marcus’s laughter: “To my daughter’s happy wedding!” 　　A cold smile touched my lips as I left. Happy wedding? I doubted if that wedding would even happen. 　　After all, I’d already prepared a surprise for their family. I just wondered if they could handle it. 　　While they were celebrating at the restaurant, I returned home and sorted through my belongings. I packed all my valuable items into a suitcase. 　　Before I knew it, night had fallen. 　　As I slid the packed suitcase under my bed, Evelyn and Chloe returned. 　　But there was an uninvited guest with them. 　　The mother and daughter were supporting a heavily intoxicated Marcus. 　　The moment they saw me, they ignored me like I was invisible. 　　They helped Marcus directly into my bedroom. 　　Chloe even thoughtfully brought a basin of water, took off Marcus’s shoes and socks, and began washing his feet. 　　Evelyn wasn’t idle either. She pulled out my brand-new pajamas from my closet and changed Marcus into them. 　　Watching the overly solicitous mother and daughter, a chill seeped into my bones, making me feel like I was in a freezer. 　　All these years, I’d worked myself to the bone, and I never received such treatment. 　　Once, when I heard Chloe was getting married, I got so happy and drank too much. They just left me at the front door. 　　That was in the dead of winter. I woke up with ice-cold hands and feet, only to realize I’d slept on the ground all night. 　　At that moment, Marcus, lying on the bed, suddenly sat up and vomited directly onto the floor. 　　Chloe quickly held the foot basin in front of him to catch his vomit. 　　Evelyn gently rubbed his back, her face full of tenderness. 　　I watched the scene unfold, and a wave of sorrow washed over me. I finally understood. 　　All this time, I had simply been unworthy. In their eyes, I was merely the lowest-ranking laborer in this household. 　　After they finished cleaning up, Evelyn turned to me, her face stern. 　　”You should stay at a hotel tonight,” she said. “Or, if you don’t mind, you can sleep on the living room sofa.” Chloe, carrying the basin, quickly added,”No, Mom! What if he snores and wakes up Dad?” 　　The moment she spoke, Marcus’s thunderous snoring echoed from the bedroom. 　　Chloe’s face flushed with a flicker of embarrassment. 　　”Fine,” she conceded. “Uncle Richard, you can sleep on the sofa.” 　　That night, I tossed and turned on the sofa until I heard the bedroom door open. 　　Marcus, sobered up, staggered out of the bedroom. Unable to find the bathroom, he simply peed directly onto the floor. 　　My blood boiled. 　　”Are you insane?” I yelled. “Throwing a drunken tantrum at your age? You can’t even control your bladder!” 　　Hearing the commotion, Evelyn was the first to turn on the lights. Chloe, in her pajamas, rushed out as well. 　　They saw the puddle on the floor, and a flicker of embarrassment crossed their faces, but it quickly vanished. 　　Evelyn helped Marcus back into the room, and Chloe grabbed a mop and cleaned up the urine without a single complaint. 　　I remembered how they used to scold me for ages just because a little cigarette ash accidentally fell on the floor. 　　Chloe and Evelyn were both germaphobes. Yet, when Marcus did something so outrageous, they didn’t say a word. Ultimately, their tolerance was born of love. At that moment, my heart completely despaired, as if an invisible noose tightened around my throat. The more I struggled, the more suffocated I felt. 　　But after seeing the true colors of these two, I finally let go. 　　In a few days, I wouldn’t have to endure this humiliation anymore. 　　What I didn’t know was how truly malicious they were, to scheme against me to this extent.

　　When I woke up on the sofa, their family of three had already left. 　　In their eyes, I had become invisible. 　　My phone buzzed. It was my special notification for Chloe; I knew the moment she posted anything. 　　Her SnapChat story showed wedding photos of Evelyn and Marcus. 　　For fifteen years, wedding photos had been a thorn in my side. We’d been in a hurry back then and never got around to taking any. 　　Every year after that, when I brought it up, Evelyn refused, saying we were too old for such “young people’s antics.” 　　But now, she was leaning into Marcus’s embrace like a young girl, a picture of pure bliss. 　　It wasn’t that she didn’t want to take them; she just didn’t want to take them with me. 　　When I swiped to the second photo, I froze in shock. It was Marcus and Evelyn’s marriage certificate. 　　Two bright red documents stung my eyes. The marriage date was two years ago. 　　Chloe had commented: “So fortunate to witness my parents’ love.” 　　For fifteen years, every anniversary, I had suggested we get a marriage certificate, but Evelyn had always gracefully declined. 　　Turns out, she and Marcus had already remarried, keeping me completely in the dark. 　　I had been a complete fool, a free laborer for the mother and daughter. 　　Now that Marcus was back, they planned to kick me out. 　　My rage exploded at that moment. The indignation in my heart couldn’t be quelled. I had to go demand an explanation. 　　I arrived at the bridal shop. Evelyn and Chloe were still inside, changing clothes. 　　Marcus sat in his car, a cigarette dangling from his lips. The moment he saw me, a flicker of malice appeared in his eyes. 　　He pressed the gas and charged toward me. Just as the car was about to hit me, in the nick of time, he slammed on the brakes. 　　He stuck his head out and sneered: 　　”Consider this a warning. I’m back. If you’re smart, you’ll leave them and vanish from their lives immediately.” 　　”Otherwise, I can’t guarantee I’ll be able to stop the car next time.” 　　”And if you dare show up at Chloe’s wedding, I’ll make sure you regret it.” 　　With that, Marcus sped off, leaving a cloud of exhaust in his wake. 　　I was drenched in cold sweat, collapsing to the ground. 　　The moment I thought I was going to be hit, my blood pressure shot up, and my head swam. Now, I felt the relief of a narrow escape. I lay on the ground, gasping for breath. That was the closest I’d come to death. I quickly pulled out my emergency heart medication and swallowed it. 　　Marcus’s threats replayed in my mind, making my heart pound, refusing to calm down. 　　After that near-death experience, I had completely lost all last hope for that mother and daughter. 　　Back home, I pulled out the suitcase I’d already packed from under the bed and left that very night. 　　As the car drove towards the mansion, I finally pulled up to a large estate and knocked on the door. 　　The moment the door opened, a surprised cry rang out: “Dad, what are you doing here?” 　　”It’s a long story, son.” 　　Daniel took my suitcase and brought it inside, warmly inviting me into his home. 　　Seeing me looking weary from travel, he naturally knew I’d been wronged and gently comforted me:

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It was almost eleven PM when Jaxson Hayes announced he wanted homemade soup. Despite a raging fever, I dragged my exhausted body, carrying the hearty corn and rib soup that had simmered for three hours, to the entrance of the bar. The moment I stepped inside, a bucket of water splashed all over me, chilling me to the bone. “Hahaha, I told you Simp Aubrey would show up! What’s a fever? She even came rushing over like a loyal puppy when she was in the hospital with a broken leg, just because Jaxson called.” “Simp Aubrey, heard you’re running a fever. We’re just helping you cool down, so you really ought to thank us.” Jaxson took the thermos from my hands, then, right in front of me, poured the soup into the trash bin. “Aubrey Miller, what you make is so bad even a dog wouldn’t touch it. You seriously expected *me* to eat it?” Listening to their collective mockery, it finally hit me: this was just another one of his cruel little charades, all to amuse his delicate childhood sweetheart. Seeing my silence, Jaxson tossed our engagement ring into the cheering crowd: “Aubrey Miller, I won’t be showing up to our wedding in three days. Either find some random guy to marry, or get ready for the ultimate public humiliation with your power-hungry dad.” But later, when I truly walked down the aisle, arm-in-arm with my new groom, Jaxson Hayes was on his knees, sobbing, begging me to come back. 0

I knocked on the VIP room door, holding the hearty corn and rib soup that had simmered for three hours. Maybe the music was too loud, or maybe they were intentionally trying to humiliate me, but I had to knock for five minutes before they finally let me in. The moment I stepped inside, a bucket of water splashed all over me, chilling me to the bone. “Hahaha, I told you Simp Aubrey would show up! What’s a fever? She even came rushing over like a loyal puppy when she was in the hospital with a broken leg, just because Jaxson called.” “Simp Aubrey, heard you’re running a fever. We’re just helping you cool down, so you really ought to thank us.” “Simp Aubrey is really something, huh? Always good for a fresh laugh.” Wave after wave of mockery hammered at my ears, making me clench my hand around the insulated container. Water dripped from my dress, and drops from my hair clung to my lashes like unshed tears. I bit back the chattering of my teeth, swallowing the bitter lump in my throat, and said softly, “Jaxson Hayes, your soup.” “Ohh~ Jaxson Hayes, *your* soup~” Listening to their passive-aggressive jabs, Willow Jenkins, Jaxson’s childhood sweetheart, who was practically glowing in the center of their adoration, chose that moment to flash a mocking smile. Jaxson finally stood up from the VIP booth and slowly walked towards me. He casually brushed the damp hair from my cheek, his tone almost too light. “Really, Aubrey, that was too much trouble for you. You’re not mad, are you?” “Look, guys, you went too far with that joke. Aubrey’s sick, and she still dragged herself here to make soup for everyone. We should be thanking her, not this.” I thought he was genuinely realizing he’d gone too far and was about to say it was nothing, when Jaxson, right in front of me, poured every last drop of the soup into the overflowing trash bin. His voice was gentle, but his words felt like a knife twisting in my gut. “But Aubrey, didn’t I tell you? What you make is so bad even a dog wouldn’t touch it. How could *I* possibly eat it?” I silently met Jaxson’s gaze. My fever-addled brain spun, making me stumble two steps back. Jaxson instinctively flinched away, leaving me unsupported. My head slammed hard against the doorframe, a dull thud echoing in the sudden silence. Jaxson’s expression was laced with mockery. “Stop acting all delicate with me, Aubrey. You gave a speech steady as a rock even with a broken leg, and you’d rush to my side after a car crash with just one call. Now you’re just running a fever, so why the sudden damsel-in-distress act?” “If you think this little stunt will grab my attention, you’ve got another thing coming. I’m not feeling any sympathy.” “So, Aubrey, if you know what’s good for you, tell your dad to call off our engagement himself. You’ve been clinging to me, begging me daily. You might not have any shame, but *I* do. Do you have any idea how embarrassing it is to have you following me around all the time?” It felt like a giant hand was squeezing my heart, draining the color from my face. I knew Jaxson resented me because of our arranged engagement. But this was the first time I’d truly realized that the person who stood before me as a child, promising to protect me forever, had vanished into the unforgiving currents of time. I braced myself against the wall, barely managing to stand steady. Before I could even speak, amidst their jeers, Jaxson tossed the ring I had lovingly made for him into the screaming crowd: “Aubrey Miller, I won’t be showing up to our wedding in three days. Either find some random guy to marry, or get ready for the ultimate public humiliation with your power-hungry dad.” I watched his smug grin, and a genuine, almost relieved, laugh bubbled out of me. “Good.” *** 0

“What?” “I said, ‘Good.’ I’ll find a new groom.” Everyone immediately burst into laughter. “Aubrey Miller, everyone knows you’ve been so obsessed with Jaxson, you haven’t even had a male mosquito buzz near you! And you think *now* you’ll find a new groom? What, do you think this will make Jaxson regret it?” “I think she’s been reading too many romance novels, her brain’s fried. Seriously, you think if you just marry some random guy, Jaxson will suddenly regret it and chase you down like in those ‘chase-the-wife-to-the-crematorium’ plots? Is that it? You actually believe there are that many ‘gonna-regret-it-and-grovel’ storylines in real life?” “Seriously! You think this will threaten Jaxson? Aubrey, don’t flatter yourself.” Jaxson paused for a second, then, hearing everyone’s comments, he too started laughing. “Aubrey Miller, you actually *said* that fake nonsense? Fine, go find a groom. I’d like to see who in high society would dare marry you. Or are you planning to hire some actor to put on a show so your family doesn’t look too bad? No way, no way, the supposedly most brilliant socialite of the city, Aubrey Miller, can’t even find a man willing to marry her?” Amidst their rising tide of mockery, Willow Jenkins lightly coughed twice and walked to Jaxson’s side. “Jaxson, how can you talk to a girl like that? Aubrey is still a girl, after all. Aubrey, I’m so sorry, Jaxson just isn’t very good with words. Please don’t hold it against him. Your families’ engagement was decided by your parents, so no matter how upset you are, you can’t joke about something like this.” “Aubrey, honestly, what happened today… it’s partly my fault too. I didn’t know you had a fever. I thought you just didn’t want to see me, and Jaxson and the others were just trying to defend me. I’m so sorry. Can you please not blame them?” I watched Willow’s eyes well up before I’d even said a word, and I just found her hypocrisy utterly laughable. She was the one who orchestrated this entire scene, yet now she was pretending to apologize to me. Before Willow Jenkins came back, I was still Jaxson’s fiancée, someone he needed to cherish and protect. He used to brave three hours in a freezing winter storm to buy me that artisanal pastry I’d casually mentioned wanting. He used to drive five hours, exhausted, just to be by my side and meticulously care for me when he knew I was sick. He used to unwaveringly stand in front of me, declaring to everyone that hurting me meant hurting him. It was his consistent kindness, day after day, that made me accept his proposal. Yes, our marriage wasn’t some arranged alliance, as the rumors claimed. Jaxson actually had to work hard to earn my parents’ approval before he even *dared* to propose. But ever since Willow Jenkins returned, everything changed. Honestly, at first, I even wanted to get along with Willow. I even rushed around, getting her appointments with the best doctors when I heard she was sickly. But all my good intentions were shattered by one of Willow’s dramatic outbursts: “Just because I’m not strong, does that mean I don’t deserve to hang out with you all?” After that, Jaxson and I somehow reached a point of mutual disgust. I can’t even count how many times we argued over Willow this past year, or how many times I watched Jaxson’s retreating back, filled with absolute resolve. At first, I even thought Jaxson had suddenly gotten amnesia, like some cheap plot twist in a bad romance novel, which was why his attitude towards me had plummeted. So, I had indulged his every whim during this time, just to keep our shaky relationship afloat. But then, yesterday, I overheard Jaxson complaining to his friends: “Aubrey Miller’s fine, I guess, but constantly doting on her? It’s exhausting. And we’re engaged, but she still won’t let me touch her, like I was from the 18th century. What if she’s a dead fish in bed once we’re married?” “Besides, I’ve been spoiling her for so long, it’s about time I broke her a little, taught her who wears the pants in this relationship. Wouldn’t want her walking all over me once we’re married.” I don’t remember how I left the Hayes’ mansion that day. All I remember is regaining consciousness to find myself getting an IV drip. Coming to the bar with the insulated container was purely out of habit, pure instinct. But that bucket of water just now splashed my dazed brain awake. Jaxson can already openly use my humiliation as entertainment for Willow Jenkins. What about the future? Maybe when you hurt enough, the pain just goes numb. My hand drifted to my slowly beating heart. The water dripping from my dress, like my love for Jaxson, slowly pooled on the floor, then vanished completely. 0

Unlike his passive-aggressive jabs at me, Jaxson’s gaze towards Willow Jenkins was laced with genuine concern. He draped his jacket over Willow’s shoulders. “Why are you apologizing to her? She brought this on herself, didn’t she? If she wasn’t so utterly intolerant, how could your health, which was already improving, have deteriorated so badly?” “But since Willow’s pleading for you, I’ll begrudgingly forgive your rudeness towards her. Just kneel down and apologize to Willow right now, and maybe I’ll even consider showing up at the wedding…” “I won’t kneel.” I calmly ran a hand through my wet hair, trying to look less like a drowned rat. “Jaxson Hayes, I won’t kneel, and I won’t marry you. Don’t show up at my wedding in three days. I don’t want to cause any trouble for myself or my husband. Since neither of us intends to honor the engagement, I hope we can both inform our families.” “From now on, the Millers and the Hayes are officially done. We go our separate ways.” Jaxson frowned, his arm, wrapped around Willow Jenkins, suddenly tightened. “Aubrey Miller, what do you mean? I’m telling you, my patience has limits. You better not test me. This is your last chance. Are you sure you want to talk to me with such attitude?” I pulled my gaze from his hand, scoffing softly. “Jaxson Hayes, though nothing but poison has come out of your mouth this past year, you did say one thing right.” “As the city’s most sought-after woman, I’ve never lacked for suitors.” So, Jaxson, do you understand? I was never indispensable to you. I took one last look at the varying expressions on the faces in the private room, then turned and walked towards the bar exit. “Aubrey Miller, if you leave, we’re really over!” My steps never faltered as I left the bar, leaving Jaxson’s infuriated barks behind me. Back home, the adrenaline that had kept me upright finally crashed. My body, which hadn’t fully recovered, had been doused with cold water and then walked for so long in the night. I burned with fever for two days straight before I barely felt human again. When I finally woke up, I saw my dad, a hesitant, almost uncomfortable look on his face. I propped myself up, took a sip from the water a housemaid handed me. “Dad, is there something you want to say?” My dad silently watched me, then, fingering the pack of cigarettes for a moment. “Your engagement with that Hayes boy…” I finally remembered what I had forgotten. My gaze fixed on him, unwavering. “Dad, I don’t want to marry Jaxson Hayes.” My dad looked at me in astonishment. His favorite cigarette pack slipped from his grasp, clattering to the floor. “Aubrey, are you serious?” I nodded, then handed him the marriage certificate from my bedside table. “Dad, I’m not throwing a tantrum. I’ve truly moved on from Jaxson. Sorry, I was afraid you wouldn’t agree, so I acted first and asked for forgiveness later.” My dad looked at the man’s name on the marriage certificate, falling silent for a moment. “Aubrey, you still say you’re not throwing a tantrum. If you wanted to Photoshop something to piss off that Hayes boy, you should have found someone believable! It’s not that I’m looking down on you, but the chances of Darian Thorne from Thorne Industries marrying you are lower than the Earth exploding tomorrow.” I watched him in silence. Okay, if I wasn’t the one involved, I probably wouldn’t believe it either. After all, who would have thought that Darian Thorne, a titan in the business world, secretly loved reading alpha billionaire romance novels? And even more surprisingly, he loved the ones written by an obscure writer like me. But before I could explain, a mocking voice interrupted me. “Darian Thorne? Aubrey Miller, you’re not saying your new groom is Darian Thorne, the CEO of Thorne Industries, are you?” 0Jaxson Hayes held the marriage certificate, scrutinizing it for a moment, then carelessly tossed it aside. “Aubrey Miller, if you’re going to lie, at least come up with something more convincing. You seriously expect me to believe this level of nonsense? Who is Darian Thorne? He’s someone you could ever hope to ‘climb up’ to?”

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