Category: English

My best friend and I planned a trip together. During the journey, I successfully snagged a handsome boyfriend, which drove her insane with jealousy. She angrily demanded to know: “Didn’t we agree to stay single together? Why did you betray me?!” As soon as we got home, she started spreading vicious rumors about me, saying I was a “budget traveler” who sold myself to fund the trip. She even photoshopped my pictures and posted secretly taken intimate photos of me all over the internet, eventually driving me to depression and death. When I woke up again, I had been reborn. 0 “Mia, let’s go to this event together!” Seeing the smiling, slightly chubby girl in front of me, I realized I had been reborn. Olivia was my best friend. We grew up in the same orphanage. Later, we were adopted by different families, but reunited again in college. She had an ordinary appearance and was a bit chubby, but she had always been outgoing and sunny since childhood. I was the opposite – delicate and pretty, tall and slender, but always quiet and reserved. We were adopted on the same day. Olivia, with her outgoing personality and sweet talk, was taken by a wealthy merchant couple. I was adopted by a professor couple. When we reunited in college, Olivia learned that my adoptive parents never had children of their own. A flash of jealousy crossed her face. Her adoptive parents had a son seven years younger than her after adopting her, but according to her, she was still the favorite at home. I was shy and slow to warm up to people, not good at interacting with strangers. By the end of the first semester of freshman year, I hadn’t made a single friend. The only person I could talk to was still just Olivia. But later, towards the end of the second semester, my reputation started getting worse and worse. Rumors started spreading around campus about me. They said I was always getting into luxury cars off campus, going to certain places with different men. That I bullied classmates behind their backs, insulted teachers, and was close with delinquents off campus. I tried hard to refute the rumors, but to little effect. Later, my private photos – changing in the locker room, using the bathroom, showering in the public bathroom… All those photos were posted online. Nosy netizens dug up my personal information, and even my adoptive parents were affected at the university. It was all Olivia’s doing. She wanted to completely ruin me. Because of this, I developed severe depression. I was afraid to go out, afraid to go online, afraid to see people… But my adoptive parents always believed in me. They reported it to the police, hoping to find the source of the rumors and clear my name. When I got sick and couldn’t attend classes, they put aside their work to accompany me and take care of me until my condition improved. But unexpectedly, when Olivia came to visit me at home and saw how much my adoptive parents cared for me, she was enraged again. She paid some thugs to kidnap me when I went for a follow-up at the hospital. In the struggle and shouting, I was accidentally hit on the head by one of the thugs. Panicking, the two thought I had died on the spot and dumped my body in the river. Before I completely died, I vaguely heard Olivia muttering to herself: “We’re both orphans, why do you get to live such a happy life?” “I have a good personality and many talents, why wasn’t I the one they took back then?” “Why did he choose you, a gloomy block of wood, instead of cheerful me when we traveled together?” “Since he likes your face so much, I’ll just destroy it!” “Mia, I just wanted you to leave them, it’s your fault for not listening, so you brought this on yourself. Don’t blame me.” So it was all because of Olivia’s jealousy. Jealous that I had adoptive parents who wholeheartedly devoted themselves to me, while she wasn’t as happy in the Lu family as she claimed. Jealous that when she brought me along to travel, I ended up dating the guy she had her eye on. Now that heaven has given me a chance to start over, I will definitely make Olivia experience everything she tried to do to me! 0

Seeing that I hadn’t responded for a while, Olivia elbowed me and said coquettishly: “Mia, I’m talking to you, why aren’t you answering! This event will be so fun, let’s go together.” Seeing her round chubby face lean in close, I wanted to slap her. The event she wanted me to attend was a hiking trip organized by the university’s outdoor club. It was a big activity. I remembered that after this trip, my reputation gradually worsened. It was also during this trip that she fell for James at first sight, but James liked me. I was socially anxious and shy. James was assigned to the same group as me and took care of me the whole way. He coldly rejected Olivia’s flirtations and attempts to get close, which caused Olivia’s resentment towards me to fully explode. “Do we really have to go? You know I don’t like these group activities, and it’ll probably cost a lot too, right?” “Come on, come on, it’ll be so fun! And this little bit of money is nothing.” Hearing my refusal, Olivia kept whining in my ear, pestering me to agree to go on the trip with her. She definitely wanted me to go because she wanted to go. Only when I was by her side could she better highlight her good personality, have me pay for her, and ultimately build up her own good reputation. “I…” “Oh come on, my dear Mia, it’s settled then. I’m going to sign you up right now.” With that, Olivia turned and ran out of the dorm room. I curled my lips in a cold smile. She was still as self-centered as before. “Mia, if you really don’t want to go, just cancel the registration early. There’s still time before the departure date, it shouldn’t be a problem,” Emma said after Olivia left. “Forget it, Olivia will keep bugging me to pay. If I don’t go she’ll be really annoying.” I smiled lightly as I explained. I still had to go on this trip. After all, it was a good opportunity to meet James. In my past life, he was very good to me. Even when my reputation was in tatters, he still ran around explaining things for me. Now that I’ve been reborn, I don’t want to lose James. 0

“Why do you suddenly find her annoying?” Sophia poked her head out from the bed and asked. “It’s nothing, I’ve always found her annoying, but she’s an old friend from the same orphanage, so I put up with her.” “But lately she’s really been too much. I’m tired of dealing with her and plan to talk to her clearly during this trip.” My two roommates had a sudden realization. Emma continued: “Oh, you two are from the same orphanage?” “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean anything by it, I just, I just… was a bit surprised.” Emma quickly apologized when she realized she had misspoken. “It’s fine, I don’t mind. Besides, my adoptive parents are very good to me, no different from biological parents.” I shrugged indifferently, a faint smile on my face as I mentioned my adoptive parents. Seeing how curious they looked, I went ahead and told them about how we were adopted by different families. “So Olivia is the adopted daughter of that new rich merchant family that just moved to the city? She always said she was the Lu family’s daughter, we all thought she was their biological child. But then I saw her brother come looking for her once, and that attitude, tsk…” Sophia gossiped about what she had seen before. “That attitude was worse than towards an enemy. A teenage boy with such a vicious personality, saying such cruel things. I saw Olivia was about to cry, but after her brother left, the way she glared at his back looked just like a demon from hell.” I understood in my heart. This is why Olivia was jealous that I was taken by my adoptive parents. Although the Lu family was wealthy, once they had their own son, Olivia’s role as an adopted daughter was reduced to just being raised well to be married off for an alliance. “Before she always acted so generous and cheerful in front of you, but behind your back she had such a resentful look.” Emma looked at me to make sure I wasn’t upset before continuing. “She must be jealous of you. After all, you were adopted on the same day but ended up in such different situations. She’s a fake rich daughter who’s lost her freedom, while you have the freedom of an intellectual family.” I smiled. Put that way, I really was lucky. But Olivia enjoyed the luxurious life that the Lu family’s money brought her, so she should bear the corresponding responsibilities. “The Lu couple aren’t unreasonable people, they treat Olivia quite well and haven’t forced her to do anything. It’s just that her brother, probably due to his young age and outside influences, is unwilling to accept this adopted sister.” I continued along with their conversation. “Actually, if Olivia used the right communication methods, her brother wouldn’t be so rejecting of her…”

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Three minutes before my personal training session ended, a female trainee unexpectedly clasped my hand and placed it on her waist, murmuring softly to me. “Coach, I prefer it when you help me correct my posture like this.” In the next moment, she tore her collar, fled the training room in tears, and accused me of harassment during a live stream. Within half an hour, I was labeled as the despised Beastly Coach. My fiancée refused to believe I’d do such a thing and vowed to gather evidence to clear my name. However, after I was fired and everyone turned against me, I accidentally overheard her speaking to her best friend. “Adeline, you framed Jasper to ensure Finn could become a manager. Aren’t you afraid he’ll find out and call off the engagement?” “Finn is struggling alone in this city; he needs this opportunity. As for Jasper, I’ll support him for life as compensation.” Upon hearing my fiancée’s words, I promptly canceled our wedding banquet. Narrative shift: It wasn’t until the shareholder fiancée helped her junior rise to manager that she remembered her fiancé, accused of harassing a trainee, had not reached out for a long time. She called her secretary, “I’ve been busy supporting Finn. Jasper hasn’t caused any trouble, right?” The secretary, trembling, replied, “Haven’t you heard? Jasper was beaten up during a live stream by the husband of the woman he allegedly harassed. His father suffered a heart attack and passed away due to the stress, and unable to endure the rumors, he took his own life.” The fiancée’s face turned ashen as she finally grasped the extent of the harm she had inflicted on me. Back then, to secure a better future for her junior, she orchestrated a false accusation against me. Within less than half an hour, I was branded as the despised Beastly Coach. I sought solace from my fiancée but happened to overhear her talking to her best friend. “Adeline, you framed Jasper to ensure Finn could become a manager. Aren’t you afraid he’ll find out and call off the engagement?” “Finn is struggling alone in this city; he needs this opportunity. As for Jasper, I’ll support him for life as compensation.”

“I’m sorry, everyone. I know Jasper can be a bit of a flirt, but I never imagined he’d do something like this! However, he’s still my fiancé, so I apologize on his behalf. Please forgive him this time!” Adeline’s words nailed me to the pillar of shame. I looked at her in disbelief: “Why are you apologizing? I didn’t harass anyone!” She smiled apologetically, then pulled me aside and replied impatiently. “I know you’re innocent, but if you don’t apologize, they’ll beat you up!” “I’m just worried you’ll get hurt!” With that, she pushed me, “Finn encountered a difficult trainee, go check it out.” “I’m not going.” I was stunned by her audacity, doing everything possible to harm me while claiming it was for my good, then expecting me to clean up Finn’s mess! Adeline grabbed my wrist, “Jasper, your father’s heart surgery can’t wait. If you agree, I’ll find a top specialist for him.” “You’re using my dad to threaten me?” Adeline averted her gaze guiltily. I took a deep breath: “Fine, I’ll go.” As soon as I was pushed into the separate training room, the door was locked from the outside. Finn’s voice came through: “Adeline, is Jasper okay? The woman inside has rabies.” Adeline replied disdainfully, “What are you afraid of? She won’t bite to kill.” The next instant, a shadow lunged at me! I sidestepped, and the woman bit my arm, shooting sharp pain through me. I flung her off, but she kept attacking like a rabid dog, blood drooling from her mouth. I pinned her hands and pressed her to the ground. “Boom!” The training room door was kicked open. I turned around in surprise, only to see numerous cameras pointed at me. A reporter screamed, “Look! This pervert even assaults rabies patients!” “Everyone, beat this scum to death!”

“Step aside!” Adeline pushed through the crowd and dragged me away from the rabid woman by my collar. Her eyes were red as she looked at me, “My fiancé may be unreliable, but he’s resigned and made amends. I’m begging for your forgiveness.” As soon as she finished, a burly man rushed out of the crowd and punched me in the face! I staggered back several steps, crashing into a rack, with equipment falling and hitting me. I barely managed to protect my head, but blood oozed from various places on my body. “Bastard! Touch my wife, and you’re dead!” I instinctively wanted to fight back, but Adeline held me down, her nails digging into my flesh. “Don’t make trouble. Harassing someone’s wife means you have to let them vent.” “Don’t forget, your dad’s specialist hasn’t been found yet. If things get out of hand, what if the specialist refuses to save your dad?” Hearing her threat, I collapsed, letting the man’s fists pummel me. Only when I felt close to death did he finally stop. And Finn leaned in, whispering with a smile. “Jasper, you know, because the higher-ups think you’re better than me, they wouldn’t let me take over as manager. So Adeline set this up for your ‘graceful’ resignation.” Even though I already knew, hearing it from Finn still made my heart ache. I said nothing, and Finn pretended to help me up. “Jasper, Adeline is so good to you, how could you cheat on her?” Adeline looked at me affectionately, “I believe he just lost his way for a moment. Let’s do this, I’ll call some friends to talk some sense into him.” I wanted to refuse, but Adeline quickly called some of Finn’s usual colleagues to drag me into a restaurant. The owner saw me, full of disdain. “Get out! We don’t welcome harassers here!” Adeline smiled at the owner, but her gaze towards me was chillingly cold. “Owner, he doesn’t need to sit at the table, just let him squat and eat with the dog.” My expression changed, and when I looked down, I saw a giant Tibetan Mastiff lying on the ground. Two years ago, I was almost bitten by a Tibetan Mastiff while saving Adeline, leaving an indelible scar and fear. But now, she wanted me to stay with a Tibetan Mastiff, knowing my fear? “Adeline, don’t do this to me, please.” I looked at her pleadingly, but she turned away. “Jasper, eating with the dog was the netizens’ suggestion. Once they see you’ve atoned, they’ll stop condemning you. As long as you behave, I’ll marry you and take good care of your dad.” She waved her hand, and Finn’s colleagues bound me next to the Tibetan Mastiff. The Tibetan Mastiff watched me intently, its foul-smelling drool seemingly dripping onto me. Beside me, Finn started a live stream, the streaming room’s name glaringly conspicuous. [Harasser atones by allowing a Tibetan Mastiff to bite!] He pointed the camera at me, signaling the owner to release the extra chains. The Tibetan Mastiff, free of restraints, charged straight at me.

My screams mingled with the Tibetan Mastiff’s growls. My wrists were chafed and bleeding from the ropes, but the area I could escape to was smaller than the Mastiff’s chain length. “Please, pull him away!” My pleas for mercy were drowned in Finn and the others’ laughter. Finn held up his phone, loudly reading the streaming room’s comments. “Hahaha, look at him, even worse than a dog!” “Harassers should be bitten to death!” I stumbled and fell. The next second, the Mastiff was on top of me, its hot breath on my thigh, just like when I saved Adeline two years ago. I completely broke down, blacking out. When I woke up, Finn had put away his phone, and the owner had chained the Mastiff again. Amid Finn and the others’ jeers, I staggered to my feet. As I passed Finn, Adeline shoved me. My forehead hit the table corner hard, blood streaming down my face. Finn looked at Adeline with fake gratitude, “Adeline, Jasper won’t hurt me, you don’t need to be so cautious.” Adeline frowned, “You’re the most important, nothing can go wrong.” Even though I’d decided to give up on Adeline, my heart still ached uncontrollably. I stood up to leave, but Adeline forcefully pushed me back onto the table. “Finn wants to have a meal with you. Stay and eat before you go.” Finn, under the guise of apologizing, kept stuffing food into my mouth. The dishes were spicy, greasy, and tasted strange. Almost ten minutes passed, and the bleeding from my forehead hadn’t stopped, my whole body was in pain. After the meal, as Adeline was about to take me away, Finn suddenly fell to the ground. He raised his scraped, slightly bleeding hand, looking pained. “Jasper, I’m sorry. I’ll never compete for Adeline’s attention again. Can you stop tripping me?” Adeline, distressed, helped Finn up and slapped me hard, “Get out of here yourself. I’ll take Finn to the hospital and deal with you later!” She left with Finn, ignoring my bleeding state. I endured the weakness from blood loss and stood up, but the restaurant owner grabbed me. “You can’t leave, harasser! You haven’t compensated for my losses.” I looked at my haggard, weak reflection in the lens, and before I could say anything, my phone suddenly rang. The restaurant owner eyed me suspiciously, then let go, “Take the call first.” I whispered my thanks and answered the phone, hearing an anxious voice on the other end. “Mr. Jasper, your father just had a heart attack and passed away after seeing the live stream about you online. Please, accept our condolences.” She left with Finn, ignoring me even as I was bleeding heavily. Despite feeling weak from the blood loss, I managed to stand up. The Restaurant Owner grabbed my arm. “You can’t leave, Harasser! You haven’t compensated me for my losses.” I caught a glimpse of my weary reflection in the camera. Before I could respond, my phone rang. The Restaurant Owner gave me a suspicious look and released his grip, “Answer your call first.” I thanked him softly and picked up the phone. A frantic voice came through on the other end. “Mr. Walker, your father just saw the Internet live stream about you and suffered a heart attack. He passed away. I’m so sorry for your loss.” My mind went blank from the shock; it was so overwhelming that I couldn’t even cry. “Finish your call and compensate me quickly!” I snapped back to reality. Forcing a smile, I looked at the Restaurant Owner. “The money is at my house. Come with me, and we can live stream the whole thing. I promise I won’t do anything to you.” The Restaurant Owner agreed and took out a first-aid kit to bandage my wounds. I gazed at him, feeling a complex mix of emotions. Once we reached my home, I went straight to my study and wrote a will. I had caused the death of my father, the person most important to me, yet I couldn’t even avenge him. I handed all the cash to the Restaurant Owner. “This is the compensation. My will is in the study.” The live stream continued, filled with comments cursing me. In front of the live stream camera, I climbed onto the balcony of the room I shared with Adeline. Below was a man-made lake. I smiled at the camera. “You only see what you want to see. I didn’t threaten the customer, yet you destroyed my family.” “Today, I die to prove my innocence.” “And all of you are the true culprits.” After speaking, I saw the Restaurant Owner rushing toward me. I gave a bitter smile and then jumped resolutely. At that moment, Adeline was at the hospital with Finn, who only had minor injuries. She was planning to comfort me while Finn applied medicine. But as soon as she picked up her phone, the message on the screen froze her in place. [The male coach accused of harassing a female student committed suicide today, claiming everyone is the murderer.] I’m sorry, but it looks like you’ve provided a template with instructions and placeholders for text. However, there isn’t any specific Chinese text included for translation. Could you please provide the exact text you’d like translated? 4 The screen kept replaying the final scene of my suicide in the Streaming Room, and she began to tremble. Finn came over and saw me in the act of suicide, his expression full of mixed emotions.

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Husband’s long-lost love returned with a child. She had been gone for six years. For six years, he missed her. Five years ago, my face was scarred. He was the one who performed my reconstructive surgery. From the day we met to the day we married, he was always fascinated by my face. But he was indifferent to our daughter. Until I saw a woman in the hospital who looked just like me. I realized he always saw me as a substitute. I can accept not being loved, but I won’t accept love built on deceit. “Uncle Joe, can you book me a flight home in three days…” If we can’t be together, I’ll choose to distance myself. — On the other end of the phone, a very familiar voice came through. “Miss, you’re finally willing to come back!” “Mr. and Mrs. have been hoping for you every day. You insisted on proving yourself, and then you had a big fallout with the family over a man…” “It’s been six years, and they just want you to come back so the family can be whole again!” Hearing this, my nose tingled, and tears began to flow uncontrollably. “Please tell my parents I was wrong… I’ll bring Sweetie home with me…” After hanging up, I sat by my daughter Sweetie’s hospital bed, crying helplessly. I recalled the scene in the hospital lobby just now. Ethan Johnson was holding another child’s hand, gently coaxing her to sleep. Beside him sat a woman, leaning closely against him. They looked like a real family, making one envious. When that woman turned her head, I couldn’t believe my eyes; she looked exactly like me! I instantly felt a chill and steadied myself against the wall. So, I was always just her stand-in? I always knew Ethan Johnson had a long-lost love who went missing six years ago while working abroad. But I never knew her name or what she looked like. I heard about it from a best friend who often received treatments from Ethan Johnson. He never mentioned this other woman to me, so I never thought much of it. Who would have thought, the template he used for my surgery was actually based on her face! Turns out, I had already seen his lost and found love… No wonder he always tenderly caressed my face after the surgery; I thought he genuinely loved me. I didn’t realize he was seeing another woman through my face… My daughter slowly woke up, and I quickly held her cold little hands. She looked around and weakly asked, “Mom, didn’t Dad come?” Facing my daughter’s question, I didn’t know how to answer. I forced a smile, making an excuse for Ethan Johnson. “Dad’s busy with work and can’t come over, but Mom’s here with you.” Though my daughter seemed a bit disappointed, the look quickly faded. Her little face broke into a smile, comforting me instead: “It’s okay! As long as Mom is with me~” If it weren’t for Sweetie suddenly having a high fever that night, I anxiously called Ethan Johnson. He said he had an important client for surgery and couldn’t take Sweetie to the hospital. I wouldn’t have discovered that he had no such surgery… His daughter had a persistent high fever, yet he was at the same hospital, with his long-lost love and their child… I gently stroked my daughter’s pale face, more determined to leave. — Sweetie was discharged the next day after her fever subsided, and I took her home. I immediately contacted a lawyer to draft a divorce agreement. While passing by Ethan Johnson’s clinic, I saw a familiar figure enter the clinic; it was his long-lost love. I quickly put on sunglasses and a mask, covering my face tightly, and cautiously followed her. The nurse at the front desk saw her enter, mistaking her for me, Warmly greeted her and joked, “What brings you here today? Checking up on Brother Ethan?” She smiled politely but didn’t answer. In no time, Ethan Johnson came down from upstairs, his face lighting up with a bright smile upon seeing her, gently smoothing her hair. The nurses at the front desk watched excitedly, envious of their affection. “Why did you come suddenly?” Ethan Johnson asked. “Sunny wanted you to take her to the amusement park, so I came to ask if Dr. Johnson is available?” she replied. “Of course I am! Let me change clothes, wait for me in my office.” With that, she took Ethan Johnson’s arm, and they went upstairs together. The nurse at the front desk muttered, “Something seems off with her today.” Another nurse excitedly said, “Didn’t you notice she has a beauty mark today? Absolutely stunning!” “Indeed!” “Standing with our director, they truly are a perfect match!” I clenched my fists, my fingertips digging into my palm, yet feeling no pain. Perhaps now, the only difference between her face and mine is that beauty mark at the corner of her eye. Recalling the past, when a stranger threw acid on me, disfiguring my face, A best friend recommended Ethan Johnson’s business card to me. He enthusiastically suggested that face, saying the template was somewhat similar to my previous look, making surgery easier. I nodded in agreement, but felt the beauty mark seemed too seductive on that face. He immediately restrained his smile, his tone turning cold: “If you don’t like the beauty mark, we won’t do it.” My heart tightened, unsure what I said to upset him. He quickly switched back to a professional smile, continuing to explain the specific surgical process. So, that beauty mark became his long-lost love’s exclusive mark. Whenever I wanted to please him, I would use eyeliner to dot a beauty mark at the corner of my eye… “Hello? Are you here for a procedure?” The voice of the front desk girl pulled me back to reality. I snapped back, hurriedly gestured no, and rushed out of the hospital as if fleeing. — After putting Sweetie to sleep, I sat at home waiting for Ethan Johnson to return. He hadn’t come back even by midnight. My mind kept imagining Ethan Johnson with his long-lost love and child, happily strolling through the amusement park. Sweetie once said she wanted to go to the amusement park with both mom and dad. But he coldly refused: “You guys go, I’m not interested in amusement parks.” He took me there, I took my daughter there. But we never went as a family. Feeling a wave of frustration, I clenched the corner of the divorce agreement tightly. The sound of the door opening caught my attention. Ethan Johnson finally came back. He still wore a cute antler headband from the amusement park. He glanced at me and asked indifferently, “Why aren’t you asleep?” I stood up to hand him the divorce agreement. His phone suddenly rang, the caller ID displayed “Lydia.” That must be his long-lost love’s name, I guess. He answered instantly, his voice tender enough to drown someone. “What’s up?” I heard a woman’s anxious voice on the other end: “Ethan! Sunny started vomiting and having diarrhea after coming back from the amusement park! I don’t know what’s wrong with her! Please come over!” He kicked off his new slippers, putting on his outside shoes again. I quickly grabbed his clothes, handing him the divorce agreement. “Sign it,” I said blandly. Without even looking, he swiftly signed his name. Then he slammed the door and left. I stared at the divorce agreement, exhaustion evident in my eyes. Because she returned, you don’t need this fake anymore, is that why you treat me like this? I squatted down, unable to stop the tears from falling. Sweetie gently opened the door and came out, seeing me trembling. She hugged me with her slender arms. “Mommy, don’t cry. It’s okay if Daddy doesn’t love us. Sweetie loves Mommy, and Mommy loves Sweetie, that’s enough.” I looked up at my understanding Sweetie, tears flowing uncontrollably. I hugged her and asked, “How about Mommy takes you away?” She nodded obediently, “Okay.” — Tomorrow is the day I leave with Sweetie. And today is my birthday. Ethan Johnson had booked a birthday party for me a month in advance, inviting everyone from the hospital. When I took my daughter to the birthday party venue, I found no one there. Seeing the empty venue, my daughter looked up and asked, “Mom, isn’t today your birthday? Why is no one here? Isn’t Dad coming?” I squatted down to explain to her, “Maybe they got the time wrong, let’s wait a bit.” I asked the waiter to watch my daughter while I went to the restroom. On the way back, I passed a room with a banner saying “Happy Birthday Lydia!” The door was ajar, and it seemed lively inside. I peeked in and saw the front desk nurse from the hospital was there too. I frowned and leaned closer, seeing familiar faces from the hospital. Ethan Johnson was holding his long-lost love’s slender waist, kissing her in front of everyone. There were whistles and cheers. And I, peeking through the door crack outside, felt like an outsider. Ethan Johnson joyfully picked up the child named Sunny, raising his chin to point at the woman looking at him tenderly. “Look closely, the one with the beauty mark at the corner of her eye is your real sister-in-law!” People from the hospital raised their hands to ask: “What should we call the previous one? The fake sister-in-law?” A burst of laughter echoed. I peeked inside and noticed that the hospital’s front desk nurse was present. Frowning, I leaned closer to get a better look—it was all familiar faces from the hospital. Ethan Johnson was holding the slender waist of his Ideal Love, kissing her in front of everyone. The crowd erupted with whistles and cheers. Meanwhile, I stood outside, peeking through the door, feeling like an outsider.

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Three years after breaking up. I got back together with my childhood friend, Jasper. He treated me just as he always had, even more attentively than before. I was optimistic, hoping this time we’d have a happy ending. Until I unexpectedly walked past the next room. I overheard Jasper’s friends teasing him. “Didn’t you say you broke it off with Adeline? How can you face Phoebe like this?” Inside the room. Jasper, slightly tipsy, spoke clearly. I saw him gently pinch the neck of the girl beside him and laugh, “Stop with the nonsense. Make sure to come to the wedding next month.” The room was noisy and lively. But Jasper’s voice was crystal clear. I felt a chill run through me, leaning against the wall to stop myself from collapsing. The conversation inside continued. “You’d better behave. You finally won Phoebe back and convinced her to marry you. Don’t mess it up.” That was Finn, Jasper’s best friend. He’s also seen our on-and-off relationship over the years. Jasper waved it off, unconcerned. “What good is it to only advise me? Why don’t you tell her to keep her distance from her boss?” Finn kicked Jasper in annoyance. “Phoebe already said she didn’t date that guy during the three years you were apart…” “You believe her? Everyone at the company was gossiping about her and her boss, and I was the fool kept in the dark…” His voice grew more resentful as he spoke. “Working late every day, who knows if it’s at the office or in bed!” The words were harsh. The room fell silent. And there I stood outside the door, feeling my blood freeze. My whole body went cold, trembling uncontrollably. The workplace is already challenging for women. It was only because Gideon saw me as his junior that he gave me a helping hand. I believe I worked my hardest to earn my current position. I have no guilt towards anyone. But to avoid any misunderstanding from Jasper, I had explained everything clearly to him on the first day we got back together. Jasper had often said he trusted me and supported my work. But I never thought this was how he truly felt about me behind my back. And he used such hurtful words to tarnish me in front of his friends. If I hadn’t accidentally overheard this, was he planning to deceive me into marriage? That would be terrifying. At that moment, my brain acted faster than my heart. I swung open the door and walked straight up to Jasper. Before he could react. A loud “smack” echoed through the room. I slapped Jasper hard. The force was immense. Two seconds later. The girl beside him screamed and reached to touch his face, crying. But Jasper pushed her away abruptly. He stood up in confusion, trying to explain to me. “Listen to me…” “Jasper, we’re breaking up.”

I successfully closed a big deal tonight. I forced a smile, drinking myself into a stupor. I had planned to use this bonus for our honeymoon fund. But unexpectedly, I ended up overhearing his true thoughts. Fate really loves playing jokes on me. I shook my numb hand and stumbled towards the restroom. I looked up. Only to see my own eyes, empty and frightening. I washed my face with cold water. Trying to calm down. But no matter what, I couldn’t seem to dry the water on my face. My eyes grew redder and redder. The overwhelming sadness hit me like a tidal wave. I simply set a five-minute alarm. Squatted and cried it all out. When the alarm went off, I slowly calmed down. The dinner wasn’t over, the clients hadn’t left. Now wasn’t the time for me to indulge in my feelings. So, I sneaked back into the room when no one was looking. “Why were you gone so long?” Gideon, my boss who was sitting next to me, turned to look at me. His gaze was intense, as if he could see right through me. I panicked, avoiding his eyes, and lied casually. “I ran into an old friend, just exchanged a few words.” Gideon nodded, saying nothing more. Ten minutes later. The dinner was over. I breathed a sigh of relief. I thought I’d have to endure until midnight again, but it ended early. Great. I’d have more time to sort out my messy feelings. And it wouldn’t affect my work the next day. After seeing off the clients, I stood at the door with Gideon, waiting for the company driver. Out of nowhere. He pointed at my eyes and said calmly: “Get some rest when you get home, your eyes are red from exhaustion.” I was stunned. Just as I was about to say something, a shout interrupted me. “Phoebe!” Not far away. Jasper was staring at us angrily. “Was I wrong? If there’s really nothing between you two, why did you lie to me about him not being here?” Before I went out for the dinner. Jasper had asked if my boss would be there tonight. I said no because I really hadn’t been notified. But the client was difficult and insisted Gideon be there for the contract to be signed. So my colleagues had no choice but to call him over. But these words, facing someone who clearly didn’t trust me, I couldn’t say. I knocked his hand away from pointing at Gideon, coldly warning: “Jasper, this is between us, show some respect to others.” Jasper didn’t expect me to embarrass him in front of others. He gritted his teeth, saying okay repeatedly. “You want to break up with me because of him, right? “I’m telling you, I don’t agree!” With that, Jasper stormed off. I couldn’t hold back, wanting to chase after him and argue. But my wrist was suddenly grabbed. I turned around. And saw a complex emotion in Gideon’s usually calm eyes. “Is such a childish and ridiculous man worth your time over and over again? “Junior, did he save your life or something?”

Gideon is a year ahead of me. A well-known figure during my school days. Everyone who interacted with him praised his gentle and courteous demeanor. And in the three years working under him. He only got mad at me twice. Once when I first started. I endured harassment from a client to ensure the company signed a deal. He scolded me for not protecting myself. And now, for being upset over a man not worth it. But what Gideon doesn’t know is. Jasper really did save my life.

Jasper and I were neighbors. When he first moved in, he was only twelve. I was two years older. Once, a bunch of kids in the neighborhood were playing together. I walked by and was pushed into the river by some naughty kids. The river wasn’t deep. But to a fourteen-year-old me, it was dangerous enough. Those kids either froze in fear or ran away to avoid trouble. Only Jasper. With a “splash,” jumped in without hesitation. He struggled to pull me out of the water. Gave me CPR, chest compressions, everything. When I opened my eyes again. The first thing I saw. Was Jasper’s clear and pure eyes. That night, my parents went to thank Jasper’s family with gifts. Only to find Jasper being scolded by his parents. I learned then. Jasper had only taken three swimming lessons when he saved me. A slight misstep and we both could’ve drowned in that river. He was getting a stern talking-to but still greeted us warmly. “Sis, Uncle, Auntie, make yourselves comfortable…” Because of this life-saving grace, Jasper and I were always close growing up. As we hit puberty, that bond became even more apparent. I was the first to notice. After all, Jasper wasn’t someone who could hide his feelings well. When I called him out on it, he shyly confessed. “Sis, I’ve liked you since we were kids. “And I can tell you like me too. “Besides, we’ve already kissed, just say yes…” Flustered, I blushed and brought up his grades. “With grades like yours, no one will want you!” I didn’t expect Jasper to actually work hard because of what I said. His grades weren’t bad to start with, just a laid-back attitude. Once he put in the effort, the results were noticeable. But when he confessed again, I still turned him down. “Jasper, I don’t date early.” He wasn’t upset, confidently raising an eyebrow at me. “Alright, one day, I’ll stand beside you openly.” His confidence wasn’t misplaced. Because two years later, we really got together.

When he first started college, it was the freest time for us. We did everything couples love to do. Sweet gifts, surprises. Every day was a new expectation. But that’s when things started to change. Jasper was handsome, and he had a great personality. When he started college, many girls loved chatting with him. And he’d always smile back. The boundaries and sense of propriety between genders were hard for him to grasp. I caught him a few times, and we had many arguments over it, but it always ended with me sad and him feeling wronged. Jasper didn’t understand why I got upset over him just talking to someone. I didn’t understand why he couldn’t keep his distance. Frequent arguments and reconciliations wore us down. Jasper couldn’t take it and broke up with me first. He chose to study abroad. I used those years to grow rapidly, becoming the professional woman I always wanted to be. And that’s when Jasper came back. He came back with an engagement ring. … I stayed silent for a long time. Jasper couldn’t fathom why a few words from him would ignite such anger in me. I couldn’t grasp why he couldn’t maintain some distance from others. Even minor arguments, when frequent, can harm a relationship. We began breaking up and reconciling frequently, and in the end, we were both worn out. Jasper couldn’t endure it any longer and initiated the breakup. He decided to study abroad. During those years, I grew rapidly, becoming the career woman I had always aspired to be. It was around this time. Jasper returned. He came back with an engagement ring. … I was silent for a long time. Gideon released my hand and sighed quietly. “I’ll give you a three-day break to think it over.” I snapped out of my reverie and nodded tiredly. “Okay.”

Back home, I tore up the marriage leave request I had prepared a week ago. I started contemplating how to spend the next three days. Perhaps I was too exhausted today, too tired to dwell on those painful memories. The moment I hit the bed, I fell asleep. But my sleep was fitful. Fragments of memories about Jasper kept surfacing in my dreams. I even dreamed of the girl sitting next to him. Her name is Adeline. She was a work-study student whom Jasper sponsored while abroad. After we got back together, we confessed about the three years we spent apart. I hadn’t dated anyone. Jasper had behaved, focusing on his studies overseas. But Adeline was an exception. Jasper said her resilient look reminded him of me, which was why he chose to sponsor her. Over time, they developed feelings for each other. Jasper said they briefly dated. But Adeline couldn’t replace me. In the end, he chose to break up and come back home to try and win me back. That was when, on impulse, I accepted his proposal. And he completely cut ties with Adeline. But then the scene shifted. I dreamt of him gently caressing Adeline’s neck. Such an intimate and natural gesture—how could that be considered “cutting ties”? Jasper hasn’t changed from the start. The dream took a darker turn at this point. I suddenly opened my eyes, like being enveloped in a shroud of mist. I woke up at four in the morning. There wasn’t much of Jasper’s stuff at home. Most of it, along with mine, had already been moved to the new house. We had spent a month after he came back looking at numerous places before we found one we both liked. Now, my only solace is that he paid for the house in full. We haven’t divided any assets yet. Thinking about this still dampens my spirits. When Jasper first returned, I genuinely planned to make things work between us. I thought we could be more accommodating, make some compromises. After all, we loved each other for so long. And found it so hard to forget each other. But when Adeline appeared by his side again. When those harsh words came out of his mouth. I realized how foolish I was. Jasper is still the same Jasper. He can’t be accommodating, can’t make compromises. He can’t even promise love. While I was lost in thought, my phone rang. It was Finn. I smirked bitterly. For years, every time Jasper and I argued, he’d come later to mediate. But after yesterday’s big fight, I’m curious about what more he could say. “Phoebe, I won’t interfere in your matters anymore, but I hope you two can fully talk things through before breaking up, so there won’t be any regrets later.” “How could there be regrets? Anything discovered before marriage should be seen as a blessing.” I spoke softly. Finn was silent. After hanging up, I lay on the sofa for a while. I really should talk to Jasper. My parents need an explanation. But I couldn’t reach Jasper’s phone. I remembered he had set up location sharing on my phone when we reconciled. I found it on my phone and checked. He was at the hospital. I didn’t think much of it. I packed a few things and took a cab there. I only had two and a half days of leave left; I needed to settle this quickly. The location sharing was precise; it pinpointed the building and the floor. I followed it to the hospital room. And unexpectedly heard Adeline’s familiar voice. “Jasper, it hurts.” In the room, Jasper was facing away from me. He rubbed Adeline’s head, sounding apologetic. “Sorry, I won’t let you get hurt again.” Adeline responded by wrapping her arm around his waist. She smiled gently. “I’m not blaming you.” This scene would make anyone think they were a loving couple. Even I felt dazed. But I’ve really grown a lot in these three years. Not even ten hours had passed since we tore into each other last night. I could suppress the heartache and knock on the door without flinching. “Jasper, come out for a second.” 8. Jasper came running after me, breathless as he tried to explain. “Yesterday, when I pushed Adeline away, she got hurt, so I took her to the hospital.” He held onto me, his voice thick with emotion. “Phoebe, I was terrible yesterday.

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My mom jumped off a building, and her blood splattered on my face. My stepmom, heavily pregnant, collapsed into the pool of blood, sobbing, “Professor! I wronged you! I’ll return your husband to you! I’ll give him back to you!” With tear-filled eyes, my dad helped her up. “You’re carrying my child. Please, don’t harm yourself!” As I watched them embrace and cry, I suffered a heart attack and fell into my stepbrother’s arms. My stepbrother, unsure how to comfort me, said, “The departed can’t return. You need to accept and find peace.” I pressed my face against my stepbrother’s chest, hiding the hatred etched on my own. Years later, as I looked at my former stepmom’s body, carrying my stepbrother’s child, I repeated the same words to him. “The departed can’t return. Brother, you need to accept and find peace!” 1. Six months after my stepmom moved in, all of my mom’s belongings suddenly vanished. I approached my stepmom, but before I could ask anything, she cried out, “Hazel, stop!” and collapsed, screaming. The door clicked open at that moment. I looked up and met my dad’s shocked eyes. My stepmom lay on the floor, clutching her pregnant belly with one hand and grabbing me with the other, crying desperately. “Hazel, wait until I give birth. You can do whatever you want to me, but please, spare the child inside me! He’s your dear brother! I’m begging you…” Her voice grew weaker, and a chill ran through my heart. “What are you talking about? I didn’t even touch you! It was you who…” “Hazel Bennett!” My dad’s shout interrupted me. He rushed over, picked up my sweating stepmom, and looked at me, gritting his teeth. “Last night, your aunt offered to organize your mom’s belongings so you could keep them safe. I agreed, but now…” He held my stepmom and walked out, instructing the nanny, “Chris! Throw away all of the previous Mrs. Bennett’s belongings! Don’t keep a single thing!” My mind was in turmoil as I lunged forward, pleading, “Dad, don’t! Don’t throw away mom’s things, they’re all I have left!” He turned to look at me. “Just because you have a heart condition, your stepmom has been extremely patient and careful with you, even while pregnant.” “And you?” “It’s because your mom didn’t raise you well that you’re so ungrateful and repay kindness with resentment!” Seeing me clutching my chest, struggling to breathe, he coldly said, “If this happens again, you’ll have to move out!” Dad hurried away, carrying my stepmom. I stood frozen, unable to move. What did I just hear? Dad wants to kick me out? He even said I’m ungrateful and repay kindness with resentment? I shivered with fear, suddenly lifting my head to watch their retreating figures. And as I looked up, I saw my stepmom’s face turn back. She leaned on my dad’s shoulder, moaning in pain, but her face showed a secretive, happy smile, mouthing the words to me: “Poor little wretch.” 2. That night, my stepmom gave birth to a healthy baby boy at the hospital. The next day, I was ordered to apologize to her. When only the two of us were left in the hospital room, she glanced at me and finally revealed a contemptuous and arrogant expression. “Aren’t you going to apologize?” “I didn’t push you! And I won’t apologize for a child who should never have existed!” “How can you call your own brother a child without legitimacy?” She said seriously, “Indeed, this child was conceived before your parents divorced, but now I’m your dad’s legitimate wife! He’s a legitimate son!” I gritted my teeth, “Do you remember my mom was your Professor?” “Of course, because your mom was my mentor, I should take better care of her husband and you!” I almost vomited, but she couldn’t suppress the smile on her face any longer, speaking ambiguously and with delight, “Otherwise, wouldn’t it be pitiful for him to have no woman to hold on long lonely nights?” She glanced at me, feigning surprise, covering her mouth in mock horror, “Oh! Sorry! I forgot you’re still a student. I shouldn’t talk about such inappropriate things…” She looked at me innocently and apologetically, then giggled. My hands and feet went cold. The dirtiest and most venomous insults were stuck in my throat, powerless in front of this devil. Before my stepmom could finish laughing, the door suddenly swung open. A tall boy with a backpack walked in. My stepmom hurriedly hid her expression and turned back with a very gentle smile, calling out to the newcomer, “Asher.” Asher, my stepmom and her ex-husband’s son. It’s said he’s never placed anything but first since birth. He’s only a high school sophomore, yet top 10 universities nationwide are already competing for him, and he’s even made a name for himself through entrepreneurship. When they first moved into my house, I glimpsed the corner of a box. It was filled with competition gold medals. Golden and dazzling, just like Asher is to my stepmom, a shining gold crown. It gives her confidence to be arrogant and radiant anytime, anywhere. —It’s so blinding. It makes one want to… rip it off her head! He put down a thermos, then glanced at me, “Why is she here?” My stepmom sighed, “It’s about that misunderstanding. Though Hazel pushed me, it’s still my fault. Your uncle insists she apologizes, but I said it’s unnecessary…” “Then you should leave. I don’t think my mom needs your apology.” Asher interrupted her. I looked up to meet his cold eyes, biting my lip, turning to the stepmom, “What about my mom’s belongings…” But I stopped, shoulders slumping, and mumbled softly, “Never mind.” 3. That night, after leaving the hospital, I went to the garbage dump in the residential area. After searching for two hours in the piles of garbage, Asher suddenly appeared. He scolded me for not being careful and disregarding my health. After scolding, he stayed to help me search through the trash. I don’t understand why he did this. We worked all night, only finding a broken photo frame. I took it, carefully wiping off the dirt. Inside the frame was a candid shot of my mom. That day she came to pick me up from school. But because of a small argument, I was sulking with her. So when I saw her at the school gate, I didn’t say a word, deliberately walking ahead with some classmates, laughing loudly. Only after parting with them did I casually look back. My mom was there, silent and gloomy, but she never lost sight of me, like a quiet shadow. But I knew she wasn’t my shadow; she was my guardian angel. Even when I was stubborn and often argued with her, she loved me deeply. Why did I always argue with her? Why was I so mean? I was a bad child. And it was for this bad child that she got so worried, easily believed that woman’s threats, and met such a tragic end! “Shouldn’t those things have been thrown away together in a bag? Why did we only find one frame?” What else could it be? Someone guessed I’d come looking, so they instructed the nanny to scatter the items separately. Even after just giving birth, my stepmom had the energy to assign tasks to the nanny. I sneered internally, but outwardly I just said, “If your aunt finds out you helped me search through trash, she won’t be pleased.” “My mom isn’t like that. She has already forgiven you for what happened yesterday, and we all believe you didn’t push her.” I glanced at him. Moonlight shone on the young man’s face. His expression was slightly indifferent, but his eyes held a faint concern. It’s strange how such a venomous stepmother could have such a child. Is he smart? He believes whatever his mom says. Is he dumb? Yet he seems destined for greatness, a super genius. I guess, until the baby grows up, Asher will always be the golden crown on my stepmom’s head, won’t he? He might even shine brighter, making her more audacious. I thought about this and suddenly grabbed Asher’s sleeve. “Brother.” He looked at me in surprise. They had lived in my house for six months, and I had never called him brother. But I kept my head down, looking at the photo of my mom, gently saying, “It doesn’t matter if others believe me or not, as long as you do.” I called him “Brother” again. Asher smiled, patting my head like a real brother, affectionately calling me, “Hazel.” 4. That weekend, the garbage trucks hauled away all the trash, ending our garbage mountain ordeal. During this time, thanks to my stepmom’s “special instructions,” Asher accompanied me almost every night to sneak out in search of those scattered belongings. We searched through the trash in the silent nights, pretending not to know each other during the day. While my stepmom was in the hospital, she often had my dad call me there. She claimed it was to let me see my brother more and bond with him. But whenever we were alone, she’d keep telling me, “The family’s estate will all belong to your brother~” She’d also say, “If you could be a good nanny to my little son and let him ride you like a horse, I’ll let him give you some money as a dowry in the future, how about that?” Seeing her so high and mighty, with a smug and wild expression, I’d always “tremble with rage.” Only after she had her fill of flaunting and bullying would I sling my bag and leave the hospital. She didn’t know that while she was “mentally abusing” me, her most prized son, Asher, waited for me at the hospital entrance. He didn’t seem to like his newborn brother much, spending little time in the hospital room. But he’d wait for me downstairs for a long time. “What’s so fun about the kid? You never want to leave.” He thought I liked that brat. I’d look at him with a smile and nod, saying he’s cute. Every time, Asher would shake his head, unable to understand. Then he’d take me out to eat, visit bookstores, and even go to shops girls like, letting me pick whatever I wanted. He’d tell me not to save his money. “I’ve already made quite a bit, don’t tell my mom.” He looked somewhat proud, and I’d happily swipe his card. He’s so good to me, more and more like a brother who dotes on his sister. [Are kids really that fun? You always seem reluctant to leave.] He assumed I liked that little rascal. I always smiled at him, nodding and saying, “Adorable.” Whenever I did, Asher would shake his head, looking puzzled. Then he’d take me out to eat, visit bookstores, and even go to jewelry stores that girls love. He’d tell me to buy whatever I liked. “Don’t try to save money for me.” He looked a bit smug, and I delightedly used his card. He treated me so well, more and more like a brother who dotes on his sister. This also meant that the leverage I had was increasing. When I spent most of his savings on a luxury watch for myself, he was displeased. “The diamonds are too small. I’ll get you a better one next time.” I touched the watch, blushing and smiling. Because… the moment had arrived! — On the day my stepmom returned arrogantly with the little brat, I “coincidentally” got bullied by some mean girls at the school gate. I twisted my ankle when I fell, was covered in bruises, and couldn’t walk. What to do? Call my brother. Seeing my sorry state made him furious. He asked who did it, but I wouldn’t say. So, he carried me to the hospital. After a series of checks, medication, and ice packs, it was quite late. When we got out of the car at the residential area gate, I wanted to hop back home myself. But Asher scolded me, so I let him carry me. As we got closer to home, I pretended to be “nervous.” “What if my aunt gets upset seeing you carrying me?” “Why would she? What do you think my mom is like?” Asher laughed, “You just don’t know her, that’s why you’re scared. She’s actually very simple and kind.” I felt a bit queasy but held onto his neck tighter, nuzzling his shoulder affectionately. “I trust you, brother.” A few minutes later. In the villa living room. Asher carried me into my stepmom’s sight. The table full of dishes had long gone cold. Stepmom sat in front of the empty table, staring at our close figures in disbelief, her expression almost terrifying. Asher paused, “What’s going on?” “Don’t you know tonight is your brother’s one-month celebration?” Stepmom’s voice was extremely strained, like a string about to snap. “I waited for you for three hours. Why are you back so late?” Asher frowned, “Waiting for me? You should’ve eaten. Hazel sprained her ankle today, so I took her to the hospital for a check-up. Thankfully, there was no fracture… I need to find out who pushed her when I go to school tomorrow…” Adding fuel to the fire. As I almost laughed out loud, stepmom finally slammed the table, nearly shouting, “Today is your brother’s one-month celebration! Your own brother!!!” The baby in the crib was startled and started crying. But Asher frowned, “Mom, what do you mean? Of course, Guoguo is my brother, but Hazel is also my sister. Her injury is obviously more important than some inconsequential one-month celebration.” I laughed heartily inside. Stepmom shook with anger, pointing at him, “Inconsequential? Are you out of your mind? Can’t even tell who’s close or distant…” She glared at me with red eyes, and I quickly hid my hand on Asher’s shoulder in a panic. The light from the watch flickered briefly. Stepmom’s expression froze as she sharply said, “What is that?!” I ‘trembled slightly’ on Asher’s back, not daring to speak. Stepmom stormed over, ignoring Asher’s retreat, aggressively grabbing my hand. The delicately beautiful watch appeared in front of her eyes, but the next second, Asher turned around and dodged. “Mom! What are you doing? I bought the watch for Hazel!” “You bought her a watch? You only gave your brother a silver bracelet worth a few hundred bucks since he was born, but you bought her a watch worth tens of thousands?!” Stepmom’s eyes were red, and she screamed, “Asher, are you crazy?!” Certainly! Here’s the adapted translation: — I curled up on Asher’s back, trembling, but I was smiling inside. Asher was tense and about to speak when footsteps suddenly echoed from upstairs. It was my dad coming down. The conflict abruptly ceased.

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On his way home from collecting recyclables after school, my son was bitten by a rabid dog. To save money, he painfully came home and asked me to staple the wound shut. With tears in my eyes, I took him to a small clinic for basic treatment. Tommy blamed himself, “Mom, I’m sorry. Ten dollars is our food budget for the day.” But as we turned to leave, we stumbled upon my husband at the high-end pet store next door, swiping his card to buy a premium grooming package for his ex-girlfriend’s dog. “James is so good to Sophia, coming every week to get little Bella the deluxe treatment!” “Yeah, it costs six figures each time. James really spares no expense.” Tommy and I stood there in shock, staring at James in disbelief. He didn’t notice us as he left with the dog and Sophia, getting into their car. Tommy tugged at my sleeve, “Didn’t Dad say he lost everything in a bad investment and owed hundreds of thousands? Why is he spending so much on a dog?” I forced myself to calm down and went to the pet store to confirm, not wanting to believe it. But the staff’s words sent another chill through us. “You’re asking about James? He’s one of our black card members. Six figures is nothing for him.” “Even that dog Sophia was holding is worth over a million on the market.” I left with Tommy, laughing bitterly and silent the whole way home. Once we arrived, I finally broke down in tears looking at his crudely bandaged wound. Tommy realized James had been lying and asked in confusion, “Mom, if Dad is so rich, why did he lie to us?” “Does he not want us anymore?” James had never revealed his true financial situation to me, even after marriage he only said he was doing some investments. Shortly after we wed, he claimed his investments had failed, leaving him millions in debt. For our ordinary family, it was an astronomical sum. But not only did I not abandon him, I took on three jobs to support us. Tommy has been sensible since he was young, helping me collect recyclables after school every day. Even when his classmates mocked and ostracized him, he never regretted it. “As long as we save up quickly, we can help Dad pay off his debts!” But now I’m told James has been pretending to be poor all along. Our mother and son live worse than his ex-girlfriend’s dog! Coming back to my senses, I choked out to Tommy, “If that’s the case, would you rather stay with Mom or Dad in the future?” His eyes dimmed, his voice trembling with hurt. “Mom, please don’t abandon us. I promise I’ll be good. I don’t want to be separated from you two.” “Mom, can we give Dad one more week? I’ll convince him!” Afraid of hurting Tommy further, I reluctantly agreed. Just then, James walked in the door. Seeing us both standing in the living room, he frowned slightly, “What’s wrong? You both look upset.” Tommy spoke up first, “Dad, I got bitten by a dog today. It hurts…” He held up his small hand, but James’ first reaction to the gruesome wound was disgust. “How could you be so careless? Spent a lot of money again, right? Your mom and I don’t earn easily, can’t you stop causing trouble?” “No dinner for you tonight, learn your lesson.” I clenched my fists, “Our son is hurt. If you don’t care, fine, but you’re punishing him with no food? Do you even care about this family at all?!” James had never seen me so angry before. After realizing, he started arguing back. We went back and forth, with Tommy quickly coming to pull me away. “Mom, it’s okay. I’m not that hungry anyway.” “Dad’s right, I did cause trouble. I’ll go do my homework now.”

Perhaps Tommy’s disappointment was too obvious, as James’ expression softened a bit. “Alright Tommy, how could Dad really punish you?” “I had a business dinner today and brought back some leftovers. Take them to your room to eat.” He pulled out a bag of cold leftovers from his briefcase. It was fish – Tommy’s least favorite. Watching Tommy’s face fall further, I snatched the leftovers and threw them in the trash. “That’s enough, James. We can cook our own food. We don’t need your charity.” James’ brow furrowed deeply at this, “Olivia, what’s gotten into you today? What did I do wrong?” “This was specially brought back for you. Even one fish costs hundreds!” “So you’re saying I misjudged you?” I laughed coldly, “Then do you remember Tommy is allergic to seafood?!” “For seven whole years, you haven’t contributed a cent to this family. Every time I ask, it’s always about business dinners. Which one has ever been successful?” Tommy’s lip quivered, tears falling like broken pearls. But James didn’t even glance at him. He turned to leave, his tone disdainful, “I knew you were this kind of gold-digger. Using Tommy’s seafood allergy as an excuse! Eat it or not, I don’t care!” Even at this point, he still thought I was complaining about him not giving us money. I was so angry my chest hurt sharply. I had to sit on the couch for a long while to recover. Tommy wiped away my tears, “Mom, don’t be sad. Dad’s just upset right now.” Even though he hadn’t calmed down himself, he was still trying to defend James for the sake of our family. Such a sensible child, I really couldn’t bear to let him suffer in silence anymore. So I ruffled his hair, forcing a smile, “Mom understands. I’ll go make something tasty for Tommy now, okay?” Tommy sighed in relief, nodding vigorously. After dinner was ready, he took my phone to send James a voice message. “Dad, Mom made noodles with meat sauce. Do you want to come back to eat?” After sending it, Tommy nervously clutched the phone waiting for James to reply. But by the time we finished eating, James had only coldly responded that he was busy. I sighed, telling Tommy to go back to his room. Just as I was about to talk to James, I received a friend request. It was from Sophia. After accepting, she immediately sent over several videos. So James was busy feeding her dog, that’s why he couldn’t reply to our son. The James in the video was gentle and patient, a stark contrast to how he treated us earlier. “Olivia, even if you snatched James back then, so what? His heart still only belongs to me now.” “You’ll never be able to compete with me, nor are you worthy to.” Yes, after James and Sophia broke up years ago, he fell into severe depression. He even tried to jump into a river to end his life at one point. I had secretly loved him for a long time, and happened to pass by and save him without hesitation. When he woke up, James confessed to me, saying he wanted to marry me. At the time, I wasn’t sure if he still had feelings for someone else, so I initially refused. “Don’t worry, after this brush with death I understand now. I just want to choose someone who loves me.” It was James who promised over and over, which is why I agreed to be with him. Later we got married and have been together for seven whole years. I don’t know when he reconnected with Sophia. I didn’t reply to Sophia, but silently called my lawyer friend. “Help me draft a divorce agreement.”

“You’ve finally come to your senses?” “Sure you don’t want to keep being your husband’s doormat?” My lawyer friend fired off questions, her tone exasperated. “Leave it to me, I’ll make that man pay for hurting you.” Hearing this, I couldn’t hold back my tears anymore. For a man who didn’t care about me, I had repeatedly turned down invitations from my girlfriends, just to clean up his messes. I even became estranged from my friends because of it. But when I needed help, these girlfriends were still the only ones there for me. Before I finished the call, I received another friend request. Her profile picture was of my husband. My husband gazing lovingly at his first love Sophia, smiling radiantly. So he did know how to smile, just not at me. As if possessed, I accepted her friend request. Immediately after, she sent me a video. In the video, my husband was wearing only pants, kneeling on the ground washing Sophia’s feet! Her feet kept trampling all over my husband’s body, splashing dirty water all over his face. But he seemed to enjoy it. I remembered how when I once asked him to grab my bath towel, he flew into a rage and cursed at me. “Can’t you use your own hands?” “And do you know how filthy your towel is?” I felt so guilty for troubling him back then, I even took on another part-time job to make it up to him. Faintly, I heard Tommy’s pained groans. Thinking of how our son was injured today, yet his father as lingering with another woman, Anger burned in my chest. I couldn’t help but snap back at Sophia. “If he loves you so much, why hasn’t he divorced me to let you be more than just the other woman?” “Or do you enjoy being a homewrecker?” The “typing” indicator flashed several times on her end, but she didn’t send anything. Just as I breathed a sigh of relief, a voice message from her came through. “James, who has the better body – me or your wife?” And my husband, panting heavily, replied: “Of course it’s you. That old hag can’t even compare to you.” I collapsed onto the sofa, my heart shattered beyond repair. At 3 AM, there was finally some commotion outside the door. James had come home drunk. As soon as I opened the door, he leaned heavily against me. Fumbling with the buttons of my pajamas, he sweetly called me “honey”. For a moment I thought everything today had just been a nightmare. He pulled me towards the bedroom. “Sophia, hold me…” A sickly sweet perfume wafted over – I knew it was Sophia’s scent. My stomach churned with nausea. Taking advantage of the open door, I quickly dragged James back outside. Then I swiftly closed and locked the door in one smooth motion.

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It’s common knowledge that Theo, the powerful figure in East City, has been deeply in love with me for eight years and proposed 99 times. Touched by his devotion, I was willing to give up my adventurous career and return from Iceland to the cozy and peaceful East City. But in the third year of our marriage, Theo brought home a pregnant woman. That’s when I discovered that while he was planning to propose, he had also found someone to fill my place in his absence. “Fiona, I know you still dream of exploring and don’t want children. I’ll give you your freedom.” “Keep the child, and once they’re born, you’ll be their mom.” I looked at him quietly, my eyes betraying a smile through tears. “Are you really giving me freedom, or is it that Theo’s family can’t be without an heir?” “Or is it you, Theo, who, despite claiming to love me the most, have been unfaithful time and again?” I glanced at the face next to him, all too familiar, feeling a churn in my stomach. “Theo, is this what you call love?” The man kneeling on the ground froze. Theo lifted his head, his eyes full of agonized affection. “Fiona, it’s my fault. Those times you kept rejecting me, I felt frustrated and lost, and that’s why I acted so foolishly…” “After marriage, we had agreed on our relationship! This accident happened because I was drunk and ran into Lydia. She looks so much like you…” I forced a smile on my stiff face. “So you just went along with it, waiting eight months until her belly was too big for an abortion before telling me, leaving me no choice but to accept it?” Theo was at a loss for words, but Lydia started crying first. “Sister Fiona, don’t blame Theo. I kept it a secret; he didn’t know.” “If you want to punish someone, I’ll take it. I’ll make it up to you!” She was about to kneel but was stopped. Theo, with a stern face, scolded her: “With such a big belly, be more careful. Do you want to intentionally harm the child and let people think Fiona’s being hard on you, being cold-hearted?” “Stand aside!” He turned to me gently: “Fiona, I know you’re kind and wouldn’t want to make things hard for a pregnant woman, so I’ll handle her for you.” I just found it incredibly laughable. Did he really think I couldn’t see this was to protect Lydia? I watched as his eyes revealed tension and worry, something even Theo himself hadn’t noticed—replacing the pure love that once was. My heart felt like it was pressed hard into spicy liquor, suffocating and choking. I closed my eyes, trying to steady the tremor in my voice. “What if I say, I don’t accept this child?” Theo’s brow furrowed, his usually gentle and composed face full of conflict and pain. “Fiona, you know how much I love you. No matter what happens, your place in my heart won’t change.” “I can promise, once the child is born, Lydia will be sent abroad, and you’ll never see her again, and the child will only acknowledge you…” Theo said a lot, but never mentioned getting rid of the child or sending them away. Yes, I know Theo loves me. But if I forgive this time, this child will become a thorn in my heart. Constantly reminding me of betrayal. I steadied my gaze. Just as I was about to speak, Lydia suddenly cried out: “Ah, my stomach hurts!” “Theo, what should I do? Am I going into labor?” Theo’s face changed, and without hesitation, stood up, holding Lydia. “Fiona, I need to take her to the hospital. I’ll explain when I get back!” But I clearly saw the mockery on Lydia’s face, not a hint of pain. I bit my lip. “Theo, don’t go.” He paused. “If you leave now, don’t ever…” “Sorry Fiona! I’ll send her to the hospital and be right back… in ten minutes…” The door slammed shut with a loud thud as the man rushed out, leaving the room empty. I slowly slid to the ground. Suddenly, I received a text. It was a photo of two hands placed over a pregnant belly, with the message: “A family together, who really is the outsider?”

I gasped for breath. The tears I held back finally burst forth uncontrollably. I clutched my phone tightly. Before I could gather my thoughts, another call came through. It was Theo’s mother. “Fiona, I heard about the child.” “You’re upset, but think about it. You’ve been married to Theo for three years without a child. If you can’t have one, you can’t stop others, right?” “Don’t get mad at my harsh words—having this child benefits you, doesn’t it? You get a child without giving birth, isn’t that great…” Theo’s mother always had a lot to say about me and didn’t miss the chance to lecture. I suddenly felt calm. “You think it’s a good thing?” “If you’re so open-minded, was Theo also brought back by Father-in-law?” As expected, the other end erupted in curses. “…When my son was smitten by you, I knew you were the biggest trouble of his life!” I hung up. Theo’s mother’s last words lingered in my ears. I’m Theo’s trouble? But isn’t he also mine? Theo fell in love with me at first sight in college and pursued me relentlessly. Even after being rejected repeatedly, he never gave up. After college, I joined the World Expedition Team and flew to the North Pole, but he followed closely, persistently declaring his love. His 99 meticulously planned proposal videos are still widely circulated online. My heart wasn’t made of stone, and his persistence eventually moved me. I gave up my dreams for true love. But having been used to the freedom of wandering, trying to adapt to a stable life was difficult. I always suppressed the restlessness of being confined. Now, the pure love that initially moved me is gone. Everything around me was silent. A thought grew clearer in my mind. … I never waited for Theo to come home, only a call of complaint. “Fiona, Mom said you scolded her… Please understand, she just wants a grandchild.” Suddenly, I heard a woman’s playful voice on the other end. Theo’s voice abruptly stopped. Listening to the sounds of him covering the phone, I sighed and softly said: “Theo, let’s divorce.” As expected, he disagreed and started sweet-talking. But I’d heard enough meaningless apologies. I hung up decisively and quickly packed my things. Besides the essentials, I could leave everything else and buy them again. Perhaps my past exploration experiences influenced my mindset—being decisive is crucial. And a failed relationship is the same. I knew Theo was still at the hospital. The nearest hospital was at least half an hour away. He couldn’t make it in time. —But I underestimated Theo’s madness. When I saw the steady Cayenne behind me speeding up, almost blowing the tires, my heart skipped a beat. Theo’s car looked like it had been in a collision, but he still recklessly accelerated. Fearing an accident, I reluctantly stopped the car. “Theo, what do you want?” Looking at the man with a restrained and fierce gaze, my suppressed emotions exploded like a tsunami. “You say you love me but found a stand-in for sex. You cheated after marriage, both physically and mentally filthy.” “Theo, I’ve let you and your family be together. Why won’t you let me go?” The love I thought was worth giving up my freedom for was a bubble from the start. The sad thing is, I’ve silently endured for three years. Every word was like blood. Theo’s eyes reddened, and he knelt with a thud. “Fiona, I didn’t betray you. The child was an accident. Later, I couldn’t bear to see you hurt from childbirth…” I shook off his hand clutching my clothes, coldly curling my lips. “Stop with the sweet talk, Theo. I can’t accept unfaithful love. Besides… we’re not right for each other.” “Perfect timing, the child will be born, and you can be a family. We’re done.” With that, I turned to my car. But suddenly, pain shot through the back of my neck. The last thing I saw before darkness was Theo’s frenzied expression.

When I woke up, I found myself back in the bedroom. “Fiona, don’t think about leaving me.” Looking at Theo, who seemed utterly exhausted, the word “confinement” crossed my mind. I turned my head away, unwilling to look at him any longer. Theo didn’t seem to care. “Fiona, the PR department has announced that you’re pregnant. Now everyone in East City knows you’re about to…” I let out a bitter laugh, full of anger. “How could I not know I’m pregnant?” Theo took a deep breath, sounding worn out: “Don’t be difficult, Fiona. Of course, this child can only be yours.” “Lydia will be giving birth soon. Just keep calm for now. Once the baby is born and I take care of Lydia, we will…” I cut him off coldly. “Get out.” Theo wanted to say more, but a phone call interrupted him. “Theo, I’m feeling terrible. The doctor said the mother needs the father’s support, or it will affect my mood and delivery…” Lydia’s frail, pleading voice came through the phone. Concern flickered in Theo’s eyes as he looked at me hesitantly. When I stayed silent, he got angry. “Fiona, you don’t want to see me, but someone else is desperate for my company.” “If you keep quiet, I’ll really leave.” Theo threw down a “Fine, don’t regret it” and left in a huff. Even though I was thoroughly disappointed, watching Theo leave still made my heart ache. I collapsed onto the bed to calm my emotions. After a long while, I dialed a number. “My dear, what a surprise to hear from you today.” “I even heard in Iceland that Mrs. Theo is pregnant. Your husband used to be so attached to you; now that you’re about to give birth, he must be with you every day…” I interrupted her softly. “That child isn’t mine.” The conversation came to a halt, and I could almost picture the shock on the other end of the line. I chuckled self-deprecatingly and continued: “I’ll send you my details later. Please book me a flight for the afternoon two days from now…” Before I could finish speaking, the door was pushed open. I quickly hung up the phone. Looking up, I met Lydia’s face. “Fiona, you don’t look well.” “What? Upset because I could get Theo to leave with just one phone call?” “I thought you knew Theo chose my child and would step back on your own. I didn’t expect you’d shamelessly hold onto your position.” Lydia’s face was full of arrogance, unlike the timid and obedient manner when we first met. I retorted without hesitation. “You’re about to give birth and still running around. Aren’t you afraid that the only leverage you have might be lost?” I looked at her steadily. “Having a child and thinking it will help you climb up?” Lydia was furious but didn’t act, only whispering harshly: “Having a child might not work, but what if it drives you two apart?” The next moment, she clutched her belly and fell backward. She didn’t fall because a pair of strong arms appeared behind her. Theo protected Lydia, his eyes filled with anger, shouting at me for the first time: “What are you doing! No matter what’s between us, Lydia is pregnant and innocent. How can you lay hands on her!” Lydia looked at Theo with gratitude, half aggrieved, half coquettish: “Theo, I feel awful, but I don’t want you to argue with Fiona because of me. It’s all my fault…” Watching Theo comfort her softly, bitterness spread in my mouth. I tugged at the corner of my mouth, got out of bed, and slowly walked forward. “I laid hands?”

“Watch closely, this is me really laying hands!” Before they could react, I slapped Lydia across the face. Her head turned, her cheek instantly swollen with a clear handprint. Theo’s eyes widened in shock, and he shoved me hard. “Have you lost your mind, Fiona! She’s pregnant!” My thigh hit the glass edge of the coffee table, leaving a long gash, blood gushing out, and the sudden pain made my face pale. I clearly saw the disappointment in Theo’s eyes. “When did you become so vicious and unforgiving?” I bit my lip, sneering. “Have I changed, or have you? Oh wait, if I had known you were cozying up to me while sleeping with someone else, I would never have accepted your proposal.” I glared at him, word by word: “Theo, you disgust me.” Theo’s breath caught, and he suddenly slapped me. Caught off guard, I almost fell over. A buzzing sound filled my ears. In the swirling dizziness, the face of the man I once loved was so clear. Facing my bitter smile, Theo realized what he had done. His arms around Lydia relaxed, his lips quivering as if to speak, but was interrupted. “Theo, I’m feeling so awful…” Theo hesitated for a moment, complex emotions flashing in his eyes, but finally, they settled into indifference. “Fiona, think about what you’ve done. I’ll take Lydia back to the hospital first.” A part of my heart collapsed. I lowered my head, eyes blank. In the following days, Theo was nowhere to be seen, but a renovation team arrived. They said Theo wanted to change the house layout to set up a nursery. I found it all incredibly ridiculous, but outwardly, I acted obedient and compliant. Seeing this, Theo agreed to let me go to the hospital to wait for Lydia to give birth. As Lydia was wheeled into the delivery room, she was still restless, mouthing provocations at me. I tugged at the corner of my mouth, took a few steps forward, but Theo grabbed my wrist, clutching it tightly to the cold iron chair. I hated pain and restraints, and Theo knew that. Once upon a time, he treated me like a treasure, afraid I’d get hurt. But now, my wrist was bruised, and he didn’t notice the scars on my thigh from the other day. Theo didn’t notice my thoughts, frowning: “Fiona, I only let you come if you promised not to cause trouble.” “Just wait for Lydia to give birth, then you can be the first to hold the baby, get close.” I looked deeply at the man in front of me, smiling lightly, with a hint of relief and ease. “Okay.” Theo was taken aback. He looked at my calm, seemingly desireless expression, suddenly feeling a sense of panic. But Theo’s mother was urging him, and he had to suppress his chaotic emotions. … Lydia gave birth to a son. Theo’s family PR department immediately announced the joyous news of Mrs. Theo’s smooth delivery, and the internet was filled with congratulations. The hospital room was also filled with joy, Theo’s mother couldn’t stop smiling. Theo looked at the exhausted new mother with gentle eyes, completely forgetting he promised to let me hold the baby first. Amidst the cheerful atmosphere, I quietly left the room. But just as I stepped into the Jeep waiting at the hospital entrance, Theo’s trembling voice called from behind. “Fiona, where are you going?” I turned to face Theo’s panicked face. In his eyes was a humble plea as he quickly ran toward me. “Don’t…” The car started, and I gave Theo a bittersweet smile. “Theo, this is goodbye for good.” That day, Theo was supposed to attend a press conference, but he was a no-show.

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Third wedding anniversary. I carefully chose 999 red roses for Fiona. But her male secretary had an allergic reaction. Fiona was livid. She manipulated me by using my mom’s keepsake as leverage, compelling me to fight a lion. She nonchalantly instructed her subordinates, “It’s fine if he dies, as long as it dispels the bad luck for Asher.” I stayed silent. With six ribs broken and my body battered, I managed to leave with the keepsake. Behind me, Fiona sneered, “He’s just a lowly bodyguard I keep around. How can a dog leave its master?” Fiona didn’t know. Someone had already bought my contract at a high price long ago. This time, I’m going to protect someone else. The iron cage opened, and a massive lion roared. I faced it barehanded and was instantly knocked to the ground! On stage, Fiona clenched her fists. Asher’s face was flushed, and his eyes sparkled. Fiona’s frown relaxed, it seemed what they said was true. This might actually ward off bad luck for Asher. The lion charged, and I felt my insides break apart. I punched the lion’s eye with all my strength. Gasps echoed around. Covered in blood, I never backed down. I grabbed the nearby hunting rifle and shot the lion in the throat. One shot, dead. At the cost of six ribs broken and my body mauled. I won. I successfully retrieved my mom’s keepsake. As I was about to leave the underground arena, Jasper suddenly looked pale and coughed heavily. Fiona’s gaze changed immediately, snatching the keepsake I fought for from my arms. She smashed the jade bracelet hard, pieces scattered everywhere. Fiona frowned slightly, looking at me with disdain. “Was it worth troubling Asher for a bracelet? Are you satisfied?” I opened my mouth but was speechless. Asher choked on water, and Fiona splashed black dog blood on the keepsake. He coughed, and Fiona used the keepsake to force me to fight the lion. My ribs were broken, and blood flowed uncontrollably. I didn’t understand who was really at fault. I dug my nails deep into my palms. I knelt down, skillfully bowing my head to her. “I’m sorry, Miss, please forgive me.” I bent over painfully, cherishing the broken pieces in my arms. Mom, this time, I’ll take you away. The act of kneeling stained my shirt with more blood. Fiona’s pupils contracted, her brow furrowed. She surprisingly helped me up. “As long as you don’t oppose Asher, I can let you stay and have a meal.” Her tone was condescending, as if granting a great favor. As she finished speaking, Asher suddenly fainted without warning. Fiona’s face turned tense, as Asher’s follower whispered. “Ms. Shen, it might be the dead person’s item bringing bad luck, causing Mr. Qin discomfort.” I lifted my head. A fleeting victorious gleam flashed in Asher’s eyes, but they were closed. He gripped Fiona’s hand, understandingly said, “Lili, I’m fine. After all, it’s Brother Jiang’s mother’s keepsake. I can bear it.” Fiona tenderly stroked Asher’s cheek, coldly ordered me. “Throw away that disgusting thing. If Asher feels unwell again, you can leave too.” I looked at her indifferently, firmly heading for the door. Seeing my lack of reaction, Fiona’s chest heaved with frustration. She ordered someone to bring a whip, sneering lightly. “A dog dares to defy its master? Just beat it.” The whip fell like raindrops, each strike accompanied by a fierce whooshing sound. Already wounded by the lion’s fangs, my injuries bled more freely. The force of the blows weakened, and Fiona mocked. “Seems I’ve been too lenient with you. You don’t even know how to beg anymore?” Every pain reminded me. Constant retreat only makes her bolder. I bit my lip hard, clutching the shards tightly, suppressing my screams. Fiona paused, swinging the whip mercilessly. The whipping lasted a long time, the lion’s corpse reeking of blood, blurring my consciousness. Before losing consciousness. I vaguely heard Fiona’s cold laughter. Her fingers casually swiped my phone screen. “A dog wants to book a flight to run away? Break its legs.” “Only 99 lashes, just use some medicine to keep it alive.” “By the way, check on Asher. His health isn’t good, remember to give him the best medicine.” I lost control and fainted. My mind couldn’t stop thinking. Now, I’ll miss the flight.

When I woke up. Fiona was rarely sitting by my bed. She looked down at me, handed me a plastic bag with disdain. The wounds still ached. I looked down; it was full of broken jade bracelet pieces. I was surprised Fiona didn’t throw them away. “Asher asked me not to. If only you were half as sensible as him.” I rummaged through the shards, my heart sinking. These were just fake replacements. Expressionless, I pulled out the IV needle. Asher suddenly appeared at the door, leisurely said, “Brother Jiang, your mother’s jade bracelet, I’ve returned it intact.” His words were taunting, his eyes flashing provocatively. Ever since he came, Asher found me, the bodyguard, disagreeable. When hungry, he’d send me 50 kilometers in the rain for roast duck. In the middle of the night, he’d drag me out for their errands. Repeatedly trying to destroy my mom’s last keepsake, just to make me leave. I didn’t understand, wasn’t Fiona entirely devoted to him? I was just a dog for Fiona to torment and train. Why destroy my mom’s last fantasy? Rage surged through me. Ignoring my body’s pain, I grabbed the fruit knife from the table. I pressed it hard against Asher’s neck, my voice icy cold. “Return those pieces to me!” Asher’s tears came like a startled rabbit’s: “Lili, I’m scared…” No need for Asher to say more. The next moment, my scalp was yanked hard. The knife in my hand involuntarily cut Asher’s shoulder. Blood beads oozed out. I was forced to look at Fiona. But met with her extremely cold eyes. Inside them was undisguised disgust, and a fleeting murderous intent. She sneered, stabbing the fruit knife into my chest. “Though you’re my husband, don’t forget who saved you back then! Do you want to experience being bitten by a lion again?” “Thud!” Blood gushed instantly! My pupils shrank. I instinctively tried to pull her hand out, but she held it firmly. “Don’t move… it’ll be over soon.” I gritted my teeth through the pain, my forehead veins bulging. The woman rarely sounded comforting. Enduring the pain, my gaze at Fiona was utterly indifferent. At this moment, Fiona suddenly felt an inexplicable annoyance. She carved out that piece of flesh bit by bit. Blood flowed down my chest, staining my pants, and her hands red. Fiona was satisfied, looking at the word on my chest— “Fiona.” Just because I accidentally cut Asher, Fiona personally carved a tattoo on me in revenge. She tossed the fruit knife carelessly to the ground. Fiona gently embraced Asher, soothing him softly: “It’s okay, with me here, you won’t have a scar.” Asher immediately blushed, kissing her lips. I coldly watched the wound on his shoulder. If not bandaged soon, it might heal on its own. They shamelessly kissed in front of me. But over three years, I heard this misery countless times. My phone vibrated. My contract had entirely reached her hands. The flight Fiona canceled was rebooked. While entangled with Asher, Fiona subtly watched me from the corner of her eye. Seeing the smile on my face she hadn’t seen for a long time. A sense of discomfort rose again in her chest. Before entering the bedroom, she coldly ordered: “Tomorrow, I’m throwing Asher a birthday party. You better show up!” Amidst the intimate sounds from the bedroom, I quickly searched the entire villa. Finally, I found the jade bracelet pieces. Carefully, I glued them back together. I held it dearly in my arms. Tomorrow, I’ll leave with you.

The birthday party Fiona meticulously prepared began at 8 PM sharp. Jasper, in a pure black high-end suit, appeared holding Fiona’s arm. Guests squeezed me aside, whispering. “Mr. Qin is so handsome, no wonder Ms. Shen has favored him for so many years.” “But isn’t that bodyguard Ms. Shen’s rightful husband?” Fiona looked at me, dressed so properly for once, her tone slightly tender: “Introduce yourself to everyone.” Her voice held a hint of expectation even she didn’t notice. I bowed my head, speaking steadily. “I’m Fiona’s bodyguard—Jasper.” Fiona clearly paused for several seconds, her face visibly darkening. A flicker of frustration crossed my face. What exactly does she want from me? “Mr. Qin, you really are quite the gentleman. No wonder Fiona has been so fond of you all these years.” “But I thought the bodyguard was supposed to be Fiona’s legitimate husband?” Fiona looked at me, dressed impeccably for once, her voice carrying a soft undercurrent: “Introduce yourself to everyone.” Her voice held a hint of anticipation she didn’t even notice. I lowered my head, speaking with calm composure. “I’m Fiona’s bodyguard—Jasper.” Fiona was visibly stunned for a few seconds, her expression darkening. A trace of annoyance flickered across my face. What exactly does she want from me? Qin An smiled broadly, a glint of mischief in his eyes, beckoning me over. “I’m not feeling well today and can’t drink, so you drink all this wine for me.” I remained silent, eventually opening my mouth. “I’m allergic to alcohol…” “Lili, I know Brother Jasper might still be mad at me, so he’s just making up an excuse.” Qin An lowered his head, his voice filled with disappointment. Fiona gave me a pointed look, her voice firm: “Drink! Don’t you always carry allergy meds? Take them and then drink, what’s the big deal?” Her tone left no room for refusal. I quietly took out the medication and swallowed a few pills. Soon, a crowd gathered with glasses, engaging in small talk, and I downed the wine in my throat. One glass after another, my stomach churned, and I couldn’t help but feel nauseous. My not-yet-healed wounds burst open under the alcohol’s influence. Seeing the blood at the corner of my mouth, Fiona noticeably gasped. The next moment, Jasper screamed. “Lili, the heirloom watch you gave me is missing, and just now, only Jasper was near us, could it be him…” My pupils contracted, not because of the baseless accusation, but because the heirloom gift my mom gave to Fiona, her daughter-in-law, was passed on so carelessly. Back then, she treated both me and my mom so well. At that moment, I couldn’t help but smile mockingly. Fiona looked at my smile, and a familiar feeling of frustration welled up in her heart. She comforted Qin An personally, then sternly called for the bodyguards. The next second, several bodyguards pinned me to the ground, tearing at my clothes forcefully. Normally, I wouldn’t be so defenseless. But the fresh wounds Fiona had inflicted over the past few days left my body with no time to recover. I struggled desperately, but couldn’t match their brute strength. My shirt was torn to shreds, and the tattoos on my body oozed blood faintly. Fiona squinted slightly, displaying only her desire for control over me. Until— “The watch has been found!” Fiona took the emerald watch and personally placed it on Qin An’s wrist, her tone indulgent. “Next time, don’t be so careless.” Qin An scratched his head sheepishly, looking at me full of guilt: “This was a gift from you, luckily it was found, but I wronged Brother Jasper, should I apologize to him?” In full view of everyone, looking at my blood-stained body. Fiona’s voice was extremely cold. “No need, he’s just a bodyguard, a dog I keep, what’s a little grievance?” In the bathroom, I couldn’t stop dry heaving. Before I could recover, Qin An kicked me hard. He pressed on my tattoo, veins bulging on his forehead. “You really are pathetic, just a dog raised by Lili, yet you cling to her so desperately!” “Speaking of which, do you know why, when your mom was seriously ill, Lili sent you to the neighboring city for medicine?” “Because she just wanted to get rid of you, at that time, Lili and I—stripped naked right in front of your mom, she was literally angered to death!” “Smack!” After slapping Qin An across the face, I grabbed his neck, unable to hold back any longer. Qin An sneered, immediately fighting back. He poured cold water over me relentlessly, but accidentally struck a dry appliance. In the blink of an eye. We both simultaneously heard the appliance emit a sizzling sound. The next second, it exploded, filling the entire bathroom with thick smoke. From outside, desperate cries for help quickly sounded. Fiona’s voice accompanied by the click of high heels approached: “Where’s Jasper?” She ignored the raging fire and rushed in. Her gaze fell immediately on Qin An, who pretended to faint. He reached out, tears in his eyes: “Lili, save me…” Ignoring me, drenched in blood-soaked shirt. Fiona anxiously helped Qin An up and walked out without looking back. Never once did she glance my way. The smoke choked me, making me collapse powerlessly on the floor, the pain magnified a thousandfold in that instant. The next second, a pair of black leather shoes appeared in my vision. I looked up in a daze, and it was Qin An’s sidekick. He wore a menacing smile, shoving me hard. Already by the window, I fell out unguardedly. “Don’t blame me for being ruthless, only if Qin An has a good life can I rise to the top with him.” He confidently turned back, not realizing he had inadvertently saved me from the fire. Just the fourth floor. With a limping leg, I hailed a cab and told the driver, “Airport.” The scenery outside the window quickly receded. I took out my phone, removed the SIM card, and snapped it in half— “Crack.” The card broke, and I tossed it out the window. Fiona, from now on, you and I will vanish completely! 4. Inside the hospital room. Fiona gently touched the small scar on Asher’s shoulder. It reminded her of the tattoo she had engraved on Jasper. She should have felt happy, yet her heart raced as if something was gnawing at her nerves.

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At the company’s IPO press conference, my husband glanced at his secretary. I turned and walked away, making an appointment for an abortion. Simultaneously, I asked a lawyer to draft a divorce agreement. Jasper received the email and called me, his voice filled with anger. “Are you serious? Just because I glanced at Fiona?” “Yes, just because you glanced at her.” The live broadcast of the press conference continued on the screen. Jasper, smiling, took the microphone from Fiona and continued from her introduction. “Thanks to my secretary, for the past ten years, every project, big or small, has gone through her hands. She’s worked hard, and I’ve noticed.” “Taking this opportunity, with everyone here today, I announce the transfer of 20% of the shares to Fiona. From now on, we’re not just superior and subordinate; we’re also partners. I hope she continues to excel.” The audience gasped in surprise. Then, a wave of applause followed. The congratulations brought tears to Fiona’s eyes, and Jasper handed her a tissue with a smile. Just one glance, and I knew this man was no longer mine. With a few words, he dismissed my ten years of hard work. He gave my credit to another woman. Since he was the first to be unkind, I felt no guilt in being ungrateful. I took out my phone and made an appointment for an abortion. Then, I dialed a number I knew by heart. Chapter

“Is the partnership offer you mentioned still open? I’d like to join.” “Only under one condition: I must have management control of the company, with a 50% stake.” The other party agreed easily, teasingly. “Adeline, have you finally come around? The shares are negotiable. As long as we can have you onboard, I’m ready to do whatever it takes!” “But I’m curious. When you graduated, you said you didn’t want to work with me. I’ve waited ten years. Why the sudden change today?” “Don’t ask unnecessary questions. You talk too much.” I rolled my eyes, grabbed my keys, and drove straight to the hospital. After the procedure, I took a taxi back home. Jasper and I arrived almost at the same time. He immediately noticed the shirt from yesterday still on the sofa, frowning. “Why haven’t you done the laundry?” Turning to the dining table, his face darkened further. “No dinner either? Are you feeling unwell today?” Holding my aching stomach, I didn’t want to speak. I just looked at my phone. I simply shook my head in response. Jasper casually handed me a package, saying: “Then do it now. Make enough for one more person; I’m taking it to the company. The press conference just ended, and I have to work late tonight.” “Fiona is with me, and we can’t let an employee go hungry.” In the past, I would have managed all the household chores without him asking. During the day, I was the marketing manager, hustling in the business world with him. At night, I was the housewife, doing laundry, cooking, and catering to his whims. This had been my life for ten years. But now, I found it utterly pointless. After he spoke, I only let out a cold laugh, not moving. “Sorry, I can’t.” “Besides, didn’t you already eat out?” “I’m not just talking about food.” Jasper’s calm expression suddenly turned cold. “What nonsense are you spouting?” “I’ve been busy all day. Do I have to come home and see your sullen face at night? Do I owe you anything?” “You know today is our wedding anniversary. Didn’t I bring you a gift? Can you stop being so passive-aggressive? When will you understand my difficulties?” Chapter

I looked at the package and opened it. Inside was a tiny lipstick, pathetically small. Coincidentally, an ad for the brand appeared on my phone. This tiny thing was a freebie from a Valentine’s Day gift box. I almost laughed at the irony. Jasper’s face looked a bit awkward, but he forced a response: “I know you don’t usually wear makeup. I searched every brand for this size. Please stop making a fuss.” I ignored his words. The alarm went off, and I took my medicine one after another. Jasper’s expression changed. He quickly took the medicine bottle away. “What are you doing? Don’t you know you can’t take medicine while pregnant?” Seeing my expression, he softened his tone, tossing the lipstick aside. “Fine, fine. If you don’t like this shade, throw it away. I’ll buy you another one, okay?” “Adeline, you’re not alone now. Getting upset can affect the baby’s development.” I placed the printed divorce agreement on the table. “The agreement is ready. Sign it when you have time.” “Also, I don’t have time to babysit your little secretary. Since you pamper her so much, why not hire her a nanny?” Jasper was busy, so I didn’t bother him with drafting the agreement. But after hearing it, he directly frowned and stood up suddenly. “Divorce? Are you joking? Just because I glanced at Fiona during the press conference?” “She’s just my secretary. You were the one who hired her. If there was something between us, it would have happened long ago. Why wait until now? Can you stop overreacting?” Chapter

After speaking, his gaze fell on my stomach, accepting his fate. “I know, pregnant women have mood swings. I’ve tried my best to take care of you, but don’t be too much.” His leather shoes stepped on the carpet, leaving a glaring mark. I almost reminded him out of habit. Realizing, I swallowed the words, mocking myself. He’s always been like this, not caring about my efforts, not appreciating my contributions. Since I’m leaving, his actions don’t matter to me anymore. I looked up at him and calmly nodded. “Yes, just because you looked at her. Isn’t that reason enough?” “Jasper, I told you before we got married, I can’t tolerate betrayal. You’ve changed, so there’s no need to continue.” Jasper’s brows furrowed, ready to explode in anger. I spoke again: “Also, the child is gone. Don’t worry, it won’t get in your way.” “And it won’t compete with your little Fiona for shares.” “When you have time, sign the papers. Send them to me; the address is on there.” After speaking, I ignored his frozen figure and turned to leave. Behind me, I heard him shout desperately: “Adeline, if you leave today, don’t ever think about coming back!” I smirked. He’d used that line to confine me for ten years. I constantly apologized and lowered my head. But there was no forgiveness, only him pushing his limits. He thought I’d turn back and admit I was wrong, like before. But as his words fell, I quickened my steps. Not coming back suits me just fine.

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Gideon’s beloved Lydia had given birth to his third child. On our tenth wedding anniversary, he brought yet another child conceived outside our marriage and said calmly: “Lydia’s child is the future heir of Gideon’s family. As Mrs. Gideon, it’s your duty to teach them well.” I didn’t react with tears or anger as I had before—I simply took the baby calmly. The guests erupted into laughter. “I heard she made quite a fuss the last two times, but this time she’s learned her lesson.” “With the Quentin family bankrupt, she knows a scene won’t help. Without her own child, she’ll be out sooner or later.” Gideon ignored their mockery and insults. I swallowed my bitterness and managed a smile: “Gideon, let’s get a divorce.” Gideon laughed, as though he’d heard the most ridiculous joke: “Nora, if you can come up with a billion dollars right now, I’ll sign immediately. Otherwise, stop pretending!” Without replying, I dialed an unfamiliar number: “I accept your terms.” A cultured voice responded with a gentle laugh: “A mere billion dollars. I can pay it for you anytime.”

“But are you sure you want to give yourself to me for a man who isn’t worth it?” The whispers of the guests cut into me like knives: “I heard the Quentin family is drowning in debt, surviving only on Mr. Gideon’s charity.” “She’s like a stray dog. Without Gideon’s family, she’d be on the streets tomorrow.” Looking at the child in my arms, I felt a wave of sadness. In ten years of marriage, Gideon and his childhood sweetheart, Phoebe, had three children for me to raise. Six years ago, I broke down when I refused. Gideon didn’t relent, using my family’s survival as leverage. Three years ago, when I resisted again, he took away my documents and kicked me out. In the freezing winter, I returned, crying and begging for his forgiveness. We loved each other when we were young. He even took a bullet for me once. But now, as we’ve grown to loathe each other, it’s time to end it. “I’m sure.” The man laughed joyfully: “In three days, everything will be as you wish.” The call ended, and I stayed silent for a long time. Seeing my red eyes, Gideon’s mocking expression softened slightly: “Nora, raising Lydia’s children to be healthy and strong is most important. As long as you behave, the position of Mrs. Gideon will always be yours. Don’t make trouble, okay?” He rarely coaxed me, but it was for someone else. I was too tired to argue and turned to leave with the child. Returning to Gideon’s family, a picture book hit my forehead, nearly making me drop the baby. Six-year-old Ezra, their first child, glared at me angrily: “Why didn’t you heat my milk?” I endured the pain and looked at the two nannies picking their nails. One rolled her eyes: “Mr. Gideon said taking care of the young master is the madam’s job. Don’t blame me for your laziness.” Right… This was all Gideon’s doing. He deliberately arranged for me to care for his and Phoebe’s children, calling it “the responsibility of Mrs. Gideon.” I remembered when Ezra had a high fever. I stayed awake for three days and nights to care for him. When he had chickenpox, I was covered in ointment to keep him company in isolation. Despite the disputes between Gideon, Phoebe, and me, the children were innocent. The child I raised with love now looked at me with hatred. Blood ties are stronger than water. To them, I was just a servant to push around. I eventually heated his milk, but as I handed it to him, he knocked it over forcefully. “Can’t you even take care of a child?” Gideon returned, his cold voice coming from behind. He pushed me aside: “What if Ezra gets burned?” My throat tightened. I’d tested the milk’s temperature. It couldn’t have burned him, especially since I was the one who got splashed. Ezra made a face at me and ran to Gideon: “Dad, Mom is clumsy. When will you take me out to play?” Gideon fondly ruffled his hair: “In three days, we’ll go out with Auntie Phoebe and take your siblings.” Phoebe’s smile froze when she heard this, but she clung tighter to Gideon’s arm. I noticed a jade ring on her finger—something my mother left Gideon before she died. There was a billion-dollar transaction behind my marriage contract with Gideon. Thirteen years ago, when I was in love with Gideon, who wasn’t yet in control of Gideon’s family, I was mistakenly diagnosed with terminal stomach cancer. To prevent affecting his fight for the family business, I broke up with him under the guise of family opposition. Later, when my family was on the brink of bankruptcy, Gideon arrived with a billion dollars, saying if I married him, he’d save my family from ruin. I was naïve then, thinking he loved me and we’d rekindle our romance. I never realized he came with hatred. My mother entrusted the ring to him on her deathbed, and he promised with teary eyes to treat me well. Now, that ring on Phoebe’s hand was the biggest mockery to me. “Sister, Gideon said I look good wearing this.” She noticed my gaze and shook her hand with a smile. “After all, he said you don’t need to dress up while taking care of the kids, so wearing these is a waste.” Gideon casually added, “It would just gather dust otherwise.” My heart was heavy with unspeakable bitterness. I just wanted to turn and leave. “Oh no!” Phoebe suddenly exclaimed. The ring fell to the ground and shattered. I instinctively reached for it but blacked out, hitting the coffee table. As blood trickled down my forehead, I caught a glimpse of Gideon’s panicked face. He frowned and instinctively reached out to help me, but Phoebe suddenly cried out in pain, twisting her ankle. He immediately shifted his attention, lifting her up like a princess. And I fell to the floor.

“Oh dear, sister, why are you so careless?” Phoebe leaned against Gideon, her voice sickeningly sweet. “Gideon, should we call a doctor to check on her?” Gideon frowned, glanced at me, hesitated for a moment, then spoke impatiently: “It’s just a scratch. Stop making a fuss.” He turned and took Phoebe and their children upstairs to rest. I walked alone to my storage room, hearing the nannies’ undisguised laughter behind me: “Why put on airs like a madam in front of me? She didn’t die from the fall!” I curled up on the small bed, drifting into a painful sleep. The wound on my forehead still ached. Footsteps approached outside. Then Gideon’s cold voice came through: “Behave tomorrow at the old man’s 80th birthday.” I didn’t answer. The door was suddenly pushed open, and Gideon stood in the doorway with a medical kit. Before I could react, he roughly pulled me up, his grip making me frown. “Know it hurts but don’t apply medicine?” He sneered at my wound but took out an alcohol pad skillfully. “Planning on showing the old man your sorry state tomorrow for sympathy?” “Gideon,” I asked softly, “why did you marry me?” He paused, then sarcastically pinched my chin: “Because you needed Gideon’s family’s billion dollars.” In the darkness, I laughed silently through tears. I should have known he didn’t marry me out of love. For ten years, he resented my parents for breaking us up, not knowing I left due to a false cancer diagnosis. By the time I wanted to tell the truth, he already hated me deeply. I took a divorce agreement from my bag and placed it on the bed. I’d brought up divorce several times over the years, but it never succeeded. With my family bankrupt, and Gideon keeping me at home to care for the kids, I had no way to gather the billion dollars he demanded for my freedom. He knew this well, never taking my requests seriously. He said impatiently: “Nora, are you done making a scene?” “This time is real.” I spoke softly but firmly. “I’ll find a way to get the money and pay you back. Even if you don’t believe me, about you…” Phoebe’s coquettish voice suddenly came from upstairs: “Gideon~ Where did you put my pink lingerie~?” Gideon immediately released me, crumpling the agreement and tossing it in the trash: “Enough, you’ve squandered all your dowry over the years. Who else but me would give you a billion dollars?” The door slammed shut. The next day, I forced myself to put on makeup, covering the wound on my forehead, and attended the birthday banquet. But Gideon’s assistant seated me in the last row, with the drivers and nannies. “Oh, isn’t this Mrs. Gideon?” A wealthy lady passed by, covering her mouth with a laugh. “What are you doing sitting here?” I sat in silence, hearing whispers behind me: “I heard Gideon brought another child home. Miss Phoebe is truly blessed with many children, no wonder she’s favored.” “Indeed, even as the legitimate wife, she’s now seated with the help. How embarrassing.” I clenched my napkin, fingers turning white. Moments later, Gideon strode over with Phoebe behind him: “Who told you to sit here?” The assistant said: “Miss Phoebe said you arranged for the madam to sit here.” Phoebe’s face turned pale with panic, but Gideon just frowned, saying nothing. She smiled smugly again. I followed Gideon to greet the old man. He kindly spoke a few words to me, then turned to Phoebe, displeased: “Not just anyone can enter Gideon’s family. Don’t bring random people here again.” Phoebe’s face turned ashen. At that moment, Ezra and Willa suddenly clung to her, calling her auntie sweetly. “Who allowed you to sit here?” The assistant replied, “Ms. Lin said you arranged for ma’am to sit here.” Phoebe’s face immediately showed panic, but Gideon just frowned and said nothing. She smiled smugly again. I followed Gideon to greet the old man. After a few kind words, he turned to see Phoebe and said disapprovingly, “Not just anyone can walk into Gideon’s family. Don’t bring such unwelcome guests next time.” Phoebe’s face turned pale. At this moment, Ezra and Willa suddenly jumped on her, sweetly calling her auntie. Phoebe’s expression softened a lot since she had given birth to three children for Gideon. Even if the old man didn’t like her, he would still show her respect for the children’s sake. The old man snorted and called Gideon away. I was about to get up and leave when Phoebe suddenly pressed my shoulder with a cold smile, “Sister, let’s play a game.”

Phoebe took out a thermos from her handbag and suddenly grabbed Willa’s wrist away from everyone’s sight. “Good girl,” she said, covering the child’s eyes, “Mommy’s going to do a magic trick.” “No!” I rushed forward to stop her, but she shoved me away. The next second, a piercing cry echoed through the hall. Willa’s fair arm instantly became red and blistered, and Phoebe quickly shoved the thermos into my hand. “Help!” Phoebe fell to her knees, holding the heartbrokenly crying Willa tightly, “Sister, if you have any grievances, come at me. Why scald Willa with boiling water? She’s just a child!” I was completely stunned, not expecting her to be so devious as to frame me and even harm her own child! Gideon rushed over, saw Willa’s injuries, and without thinking, kicked me to the ground, shouting angrily, “How could you harm such a young child! Are you even human?” Gideon called the family doctor to treat Willa’s wounds. Suddenly, Ezra started crying loudly. I lay on the ground, struggling to get up, trembling as I reached for Ezra, “Ezra, baby, don’t be afraid… tell Daddy… who just…” Before I could finish, Ezra hid behind Gideon in terror, crying, “It was Mommy! She poured hot water on Sister! I’m scared!” I froze instantly, my outstretched hand dropping weakly. “Are you really this jealous just because I brought Lydia to a party once? They’re the kids you raised yourself!” I opened my mouth, the taste of blood growing stronger in my throat, finally turning into a barely audible laugh. I looked into Gideon’s furious eyes, “Gideon, do you really believe this?” “He’s only six. Can he lie?” The guests around started whispering. Some called me “vicious,” others said, “No wonder you can’t have kids, with such a cruel heart.” The crowd’s accusations drowned me, but what hurt more was Gideon’s hateful gaze piercing my heart. To him, I was nothing but a jealous and vicious woman. Phoebe leaned into Gideon’s arms, eyes red, “Sister, if you’re sick, you need treatment. How could you do something so cruel?” Ezra’s cries grew louder, saying he was scared just seeing me. Gideon pointed at me and shouted, “Nora, get out of here where we can’t see you!” I wiped the blood from my mouth, stood up shakily, and took the divorce agreement I always carried out of my bag, smiling bitterly, “It’s time to leave… sign it, and I’ll leave quietly.” Gideon’s anger grew, and he stood up, tearing the divorce agreement and throwing it in my face, “Without ten billion, don’t even think about leaving! You’ll be my wife for life, Nora!” Outside, the rain poured down as I staggered into it, the cold rain mixing with my tears. Ten years of marriage, sincerity, and patience—shouldn’t it end when I get the money tomorrow? The next second, everything went black, and I fell down the stairs. Just as I thought I would hit the ground, I was suddenly caught in a warm, strong embrace. “I was only late for a moment, and you made yourself this miserable, hmm?” When I woke up again, I was in a hospital. The man in front of me was handsome, the current head of Carter Group, Declan Carter. I was about to speak when I noticed a familiar diamond cufflink on his suit sleeve, the gift I gave to a life-saver on my eighteenth birthday. “You finally recognize me? I didn’t waste years loving you.” Declan leaned in, his voice deep and magnetic. Memories surged back: when I was eighteen, I was kidnapped, and a young man risked his life to save me. Before leaving, I gave him my most precious birthday gift… “It’s you…” My voice trembled as I instinctively tried to sit up, but he suddenly looked tense and supported me, “Careful, the doctor said you’re pregnant, eight weeks.” I froze completely. The timing was just right; it was Gideon’s last time with me when he was drunk and mistook me for Phoebe. Declan chuckled coldly, “Interesting, Gideon kicked you out, not knowing his wife is pregnant with his child.” He smirked and looked at me with intense eyes, “But soon it won’t be his.” I was overwhelmed by the barrage of news, “What?” Declan laughed, “The ten billion has already been transferred; whether he signs or not, he has to.”

At that moment, Gideon was sitting in the villa garden, watching Phoebe and the two children playing on the lawn. “How could sister not come back all night, how could she be so petty with you, the baby cried at night and it broke my heart.” Gideon sneered, about to speak when his phone vibrated. He casually opened the message, still thinking about how to teach me a lesson when I got back. But the message froze his smile instantly— [Your account has received a transfer of 1,000,000,000.00 RMB, memo: divorce settlement] “Gideon?” Phoebe sensed something was wrong and reached for his phone. “What’s happening?” Gideon reread the message, disbelief etched on his face, before leaping up from his seat. Ezra nearly toppled over and began to cry loudly in fright. He shoved Phoebe away, staring intently at the message, his fingers trembling uncontrollably. One billion… Could Nora really have gathered one billion? “That’s impossible,” he muttered, immediately calling the bank for confirmation. “Mr. Gideon, the amount has indeed been credited from the Carter Group’s overseas account.”

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