Category: English

In my previous life, when zombies overran the city, I went to save my parents and brother, only to be pushed towards the undead by them. Reborn, I decided to no longer care for them, letting them fend for themselves. I watched as my father turned into a zombie and was killed. My brother, in a desperate attempt to survive, even drank our mother’s blood. Finally, my brother knelt at my door begging: “Sister, please save me.” But I only sneered and slammed the door shut, leaving him to be devoured by zombies. “Come on, sis, have you been so immersed in your live streaming that you’ve become confused? You actually believe those ridiculous online news? I think you’ve really lost it,” Tyler’s voice on the phone carried a hint of mockery and dissatisfaction. I was momentarily stunned, trying to recall these familiar words. I… had actually been reborn! This sudden realization left me feeling a bit disoriented. I quickly adjusted my emotions and tried to respond in a casual tone, “Haha, you’re right. I was just being silly for a moment. It won’t happen again.” Tyler snickered on the other end of the line. Then, mom took over the phone, her voice tinged with reproach: “You really need to stop looking at all that nonsense online. Instead, why don’t you spend some time helping your brother find a job!” I absent-mindedly agreed to a few things, trying to end the conversation as quickly as possible. After hanging up, I fell into deep thought. The city I lived in was about to face an unprecedented disaster – a zombie outbreak. In my previous life, I had learned this shocking news from a friend working at a hospital in a neighboring city. He had warned me in advance, allowing me to prepare. At that time, although I was shocked, I quickly sprang into action. I told my family, urging them to prepare essential supplies for any emergency. However, my good-for-nothing brother scoffed at this, believing I was just being alarmist. My parents also believed his words, thinking I was making a fuss over nothing. Since they wouldn’t listen, I could only secure my own place, preparing a series of necessary supplies. But when the zombie outbreak actually happened, they called for help. Softened by their pleas, I decided to save them. I took advantage of noon, when zombie activity was at its lowest, to go to their place. Since my home and theirs were in the same community, separated only by a small garden, I thought there wouldn’t be any problems. However, just as we walked out of the building entrance, a group of zombies surged towards us. We panicked and ran towards my home, but just as we were about to reach my door, Tyler tripped and fell. Seeing the zombies getting closer and closer, I grabbed him and shouted, “Run!” But Tyler, due to his injured foot, was getting slower and slower, and the zombies were about to catch him. At that moment, Tyler suddenly used all his strength to push me towards the zombies. My parents, seeing this, hesitated for a moment, but as the approaching zombies drew near, they finally picked up Tyler and ran towards my home without looking back. I screamed in terror, struggling to break free from the zombies’ grasp, but to no avail… Finally, when they managed to run into my building, they shouted to me from behind the door: “Lena, we’re sorry… but your brother is the only son in our family, we must protect him…” At that moment, my heart felt like it was being torn apart…

The pain of being torn apart by zombies seemed to be imprinted on my soul, but compared to the physical pain, the wounds in my heart were even harder to heal. From a young age, I had lived under the shadow of my parents’ preference for boys over girls. Every bit of warmth and care in the family was prioritized for my brother. When I was little, because my brother loved cake, even on my birthday, the birthday cake that should have been mine was always devoured by him, while I could only watch silently from the side. After starting school, this unfair treatment became even more apparent. My brother could wear expensive brand-name shoes worth over two thousand dollars, showing off his “high-end” lifestyle at school. I, on the other hand, could only wear cheap shoes that cost a few dozen dollars, enduring the embarrassment of my shoes falling apart. Moreover, whenever classmates mocked me for being poor, my brother always pretended not to know me. When it came to the college entrance exam, a crucial moment that determines one’s future, I thought I could change my fate through my own efforts. But my parents, to save money, forced me to choose a ordinary local university that offered scholarships, making me miss the opportunity to enter a top university. As for my brother, even though his grades were terrible, they were willing to spend a huge amount of money and effort to pull strings and find connections, sending him to an expensive private university. After graduation, I made a name for myself in the new media industry through my own efforts and abilities, becoming a highly regarded live-streaming host. I earned my first bucket of gold and bought my own house. But when my parents learned that I had bought a house, their first reaction was not happiness or pride for me, but a demand that I also buy a house for my brother in the same community. They even threatened that if I didn’t meet their demands, they would let my brother move in with me and not leave. Standing by the window, looking at my brother’s home across the street, my heart was filled with complex emotions. Recalling their coldness and heartlessness towards me in my previous life, I decided that this time I wouldn’t care for them anymore, letting them fend for themselves. The threat of zombies was drawing nearer day by day, and I knew I had to act quickly. I initially wanted to leave this city directly, but suddenly realized I didn’t know how many cities this crisis would actually affect. If I went to an unfamiliar city and encountered the same crisis, it would be like going to my death. So I decided to stay. I needed to quickly prepare supplies and equipment to deal with the zombie crisis. Only then would I have a chance to survive.

First, I contacted a renovation company and commissioned them to renovate my home. Previously, due to the requirements of live streaming, my home had already been soundproofed. But in the face of the zombie threat, an ordinary security door obviously couldn’t provide enough protection. I asked the renovation company to install a sturdy bulletproof security door for me, and added an extra iron door behind it as a double safeguard. At the same time, to ensure absolute safety, I also replaced all the windows with bulletproof glass and installed iron bars on the inside. The renovation workers were a bit confused by these requests, so I had to make up an excuse, saying that my address might have been leaked during live streaming, and I needed to enhance security for safety reasons. Meanwhile, I started buying large quantities of daily necessities online. Rice, noodles, oil, toilet paper, mineral water, instant noodles and other supplies were essential. I also purchased enough vegetables and meat to ensure self-sufficiency during the crisis. Considering the limited capacity of the refrigerator, I bought another large freezer, sealed all the meat and vegetables in vacuum bags, and froze them. I also bought some vegetable seeds, planning to grow some vegetables at home for emergencies. To cope with possible power outages, I specially installed solar panels for my home. This way, even if the power was cut off, I could still meet my basic electricity needs through solar power generation. Throughout this process, I remained vigilant and low-key. After all, in a doomsday crisis, the dark side of human nature would be triggered, and I didn’t want my preparatory actions to arouse suspicion from others. I tried to make everything look like part of my daily life as much as possible. Even the delivery guy thought I was just preparing for a live streaming event featuring daily necessities.

When all the preparations were settled, I called my parents. I told them that I needed to go to another city for a business trip for half a month. I knew that once the zombie crisis really broke out, they would definitely come to me for shelter. The experience from my previous life was imprinted in my heart like a brand. At that time, I had earnestly persuaded them to prepare in advance, but they turned a deaf ear. It wasn’t until the shadow of zombies loomed over our city that they started to panic. There were almost no reserves in their home, and in just a week, the food in the house was exhausted. At this time, mom called me, urgently demanding that I go over to pick them up. I suggested they come directly to my place, but they firmly refused, claiming that because of fear, she and dad were already unable to move. I had no choice but to go there myself, but after picking them up, we encountered zombies on the way. As a result, they pushed me towards those terrible creatures without hesitation. At that moment, I understood that they might have planned all along that if they encountered danger, they would use my life to exchange for their safety. To avoid such a tragedy from happening again, I decided to let them think I wasn’t at home at all. Only in this way would they completely give up the idea of seeking shelter at my place. After hanging up the phone, I carefully drew the curtains in my house tightly, ensuring that not a single ray of light leaked out. Because zombies could identify sounds and light sources, I had to avoid exposing myself as much as possible. Moreover, the windows of my house directly faced my brother’s house, so I couldn’t let them see any light from my house. To make them believe I wasn’t at home, I even posted a WeChat Moments visible only to them, showing that I was waiting to board at the airport. After doing all this, I took a deep breath, feeling the tension in my heart ease a little. I knew that the days ahead would be full of unknowns and challenges, but I was prepared to face this doomsday crisis.

Sure enough, the disaster came quickly. The neighboring city had officially announced the outbreak of the zombie crisis, and our city followed suit, urgently calling on citizens to prepare in advance. But by the time everyone realized the seriousness of the situation, supermarkets and shopping malls had already been looted empty. Looking down from upstairs, I saw dad, mom, and Tyler hurriedly going out, only to return with two packs of instant noodles and a bag of rice. This scene made me feel sad for them, as it foreshadowed the difficult days ahead. Soon, mom’s call came through, her voice full of anxiety: “Lena, have you heard? There’s a zombie outbreak in the neighboring city!” I pretended to be unaware, exclaiming in surprise, “What? Wasn’t that just fake news before?” Mom urgently said, “It’s not fake! Signs are starting to appear here too. The community has already issued a warning, telling everyone to stock up on necessities. Where are you now? When can you come back?” My voice was filled with helplessness: “I’m still in City B. Work hasn’t finished yet. The earliest I can come back is next week.” After hearing this, mom’s voice revealed disappointment: “Alright, we’ll try to figure something out ourselves then. Let us know when you’re coming back.” After hanging up the phone, I let out a deep sigh. Although I knew clearly that they had no place for me in their hearts, the fact that mom didn’t even say a word about staying safe at this critical moment made me feel even more heartbroken. I turned on the surveillance camera I had previously installed in their living room. At this moment, the whole family was gathered in the living room, nervously discussing what to do next. Tyler was still indifferent, curled up on the sofa playing games. Mom and dad, on the other hand, looked anxious and uneasy. Mom was fiddling with the meager supplies in her hands, while dad kept rummaging through the refrigerator, trying to find more usable food. I put down my binoculars and turned back to my room. I decided not to worry about them anymore. I took out my small electric pot and started to prepare for a hot pot meal. My supply reserves were abundant, with enough food to last me for at least half a year. Now, without their burden, I could also enjoy this rare moment of tranquility.

After a hearty meal, I took out the plastic buckets I had prepared earlier and began my water storage plan. In this period full of uncertainties, I couldn’t predict whether the water supply would suddenly be cut off, so I decided to store some water for myself every day, just in case. Next, I brought out the vegetable seeds and flower pots that I had prepared from the storage room. I sowed the seeds one by one in the soil, hoping that they would grow strong under my care and face the future crisis with me. As night gradually fell, I composed myself and stepped into my workroom. I pulled the newly bought backdrop behind me, creating a live streaming environment that looked like I was in another city. Although I was very limited in what I could do under these circumstances, I still managed to arrange a special live streaming session for daily necessities and food through my studio. I knew that this crisis might affect more cities, and I hoped that through my live streaming room, more people would realize the importance of stockpiling supplies. During the live stream, I noticed that viewers from different cities had started appearing in the comments, sharing the current situation in their cities. “Host, express delivery has completely stopped in our area. They say it’s because of a virus spreading…” “It’s not a virus, it’s zombies! We’re already forbidden to go out here, the streets are empty.” When this comment about zombies appeared, it was immediately blocked by the system. This shocked me, realizing that this crisis was no longer just a problem of one or two cities, but multiple cities had fallen into chaos. In the live streaming room, I tried to remind everyone in a subtle way: “Dear viewers, the situation is indeed a bit special recently. I suggest everyone should try to prepare more daily necessities and food, so that we can be more composed when facing the unknown.” After the live stream ended, it was close to midnight. I opened the surveillance of my brother’s house again and saw that the living room was empty, presumably they had all gone to rest. I thought they probably hadn’t realized the severity of this crisis yet, simply thinking that hiding at home for a few days would return everything to normal. However, I knew that things were far from that simple.

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Cristian Logan, my husband, was known as a wonderful man in the circle, but I knew that he had an affair with a young girl behind my back. His eyes blurry with drunkenness, he smiled as he complained to those around him, “Georgina is good in every way. She’s beautiful, gentle, dignified, and considerate. But after getting married, I realized that women are all the same.” The man who once swore to love me for a lifetime was now lifting the chin of the girl in his arms and making a flirtatious comment. “Men, after all, like women who are feisty.” Others teasingly chimed in, “Since your wife is so boring, why don’t you get another one?” “I can’t do that!” Cristian blurted out, “The person I love the most will always be my wife.” I calmly turned around and left. It was true that he loved me. It was also true that he had cheated on me. The laughter and banter in the private room grew louder and louder, while I, standing at the door, felt icy cold all over. This unexpected encounter caught me off guard and revealed the true face of my husband. I had a girls’ night with my best friend. But she had to leave first due to some urgent work. I thought of going home, but unexpectedly, I saw Cristian. So I planned to give him a surprise, but he gave me a shock instead. I followed my husband and the others here and located him easily. These trust-fund babies were incredibly extravagant. They had booked the entire top floor of Platinum Club. No stranger was allowed to go in, so they didn’t even close the door. I stood from a distance and watched as my husband who had kissed me goodbye this morning chatted animatedly with a young girl in his arms. “I’m not as dissolute as you guys. I’m very devoted,” he said. “My first love, my true love, and my wife will always be Georgina.” His voice was filled with pride. But his hand was around another woman’s shoulders. There was a hint of melancholy in Cristian’s eyes. “Georgina is good in every way. She’s beautiful, gentle, dignified, and considerate. But after getting married, I realized that women are all the same.” My nails dug into my palm, causing pain, but it was nothing compared to the pain in my heart. Someone asked in confusion, “Isn’t your wife nice?” “On the contrary, she’s very nice,” Cristian replied. There was a glint of desire in his eyes that I couldn’t fathom. “But men, after all, like women who are feisty… especially in bed.” He gave a knowing look, and the men sitting there immediately understood. Hearing this, I felt a chill run through my body. Our intimate moments had actually become topics for him to discuss. And I was the one being looked down upon. Others chimed in teasingly, “Since your wife is so boring, why don’t you get another one?” “That’s right. You’re strapping, rich, and powerful. You can have any girl you want, Cristian.” “Yeah, as long as Cristian wants, girls would come running to him.” “I can’t do that!” Cristian immediately denied it. His eyes were determined as he blurted out, “The person I love the most will always be my wife.”

Upon hearing this, the girl in Cristian’s arms became upset and wriggled in his arms. “If you love her the most, then what am I?” The girl’s big eyes were tinged with a delicate look of grievance and just the right amount of resentment. Her fingers poked at Cristian’s chest. “You just said in bed that you loved me the most…” The men beside them burst into laughter. “Silly girl, how could you believe what a man says in bed!” “You’re just his mistress. How could you compare yourself to Cristian’s legitimate wife?” The girl’s eyes immediately welled up with tears as she tugged at the hem of Cristian’s clothes and pleaded. “Cristian, look at them…” The girl’s choked voice had a soft, babyish tone that made people feel sorry for her. Cristian pinched the girl’s chin and, boldly leaned down, and passionately kissed her in front of everyone, making them blush in embarrassment. But all of this seemed so strange to me. Cristian was always gentle, restrained, patient, and considerate to me. I never expected that my gentle and refined husband had such a despicable side. After the kiss ended, Cristian casually wiped the corner of his mouth. The girl’s lipstick smudged on his lips, making him look strangely alluring. He sneered and looked at the others, “Ellie Lynn has been with me for two years. She is my girlfriend. You all better watch what you say.” Others were shocked. “No way, Cristian. Are you serious?” “She’s been with me since she was 18. I was her first in both bed and kiss. I have to take responsibility.” “Aren’t you afraid your wife will make a fuss over this?” someone asked. “What can she do? She doesn’t have a job, and she’s relying on me for everything. Where could she go without me?” Others flattered him. “That’s right. Your wife loves you so much, Cristian. She definitely wouldn’t want to leave you.” “That’s right. It’s normal for a man to have one or two women outside, especially someone like Cristian.” “Exactly. Every man wants a few women outside while maintaining his marriage intact. It’s just a man’s nature…” I couldn’t bear to listen to their vulgar words anymore. So I turned around and walked out mechanically and numbly. I didn’t even think about going in and questioning him. When I walked out of the club, I felt my whole body go stiff. The night wind blew, making me feel even colder to the core. The man who once swore to love me for a lifetime, kissed me every morning, and brought me a cup of warm milk every day had betrayed me and become a disappointment in the end. I thought I would cry my eyes out, be heartbroken, or even be hysterical. But none of that happened. There was only a calm and rational realization. It was true that Cristian loved me. It was also true that he had cheated on me. But perhaps he didn’t know that Georgina, who he thought just like other women had always been stubborn. She would never tolerate any form of betrayal. I knew that my marriage with Cristian was over.

When Cristian returned, I was sitting at the dining table having breakfast. He walked towards me holding a bouquet of roses with the morning dew on them, wearing a familiar and ingratiating smile on his face. “Honey, I’m sorry. I had a business dinner last night that went on too late, so I just stayed at the company for the night.” As he spoke, he leaned in to kiss me. I instinctively resisted inwardly and stepped back subtly. When we got married, Cristian had sworn that he would never stay out overnight. In fact, he had often been out early and back late for more than half a year, always using the excuse of being busy with work. Last night marked the first time he had spent the night away from home. But I knew if he did it once, he would do it countless times more. I looked into Cristian’s eyes, and it seemed that I could glimpse what it would be like if I kept turning a blind eye on him staying out all night as a regular occurrence in the future. I cast a casual glance at him and asked, “Have you changed your clothes?” Cristian had not only changed his clothes but also taken a shower, sprayed on some perfume, and carefully tidied himself up. He was a meticulous man. “Yes, I have. After the business dinner, I smelled of cigarettes and alcohol. I don’t want to reek that smell in front of you. Look, I’m wearing the clothes you picked for me. I left them in the company’s lounge.” He picked up the milk I had left and took a sip. “These clothes suit me so well. You have such good taste, honey! “Why is this milk cold?” I said calmly, “Don’t drink it. I was about to dump it.” “That’s okay. I’ll drink it anyway. I’m happy to eat whatever you leave behind.” I watched coldly as Cristian drank the milk, and I couldn’t discern if he was just pretending. Everything seemed so genuine. Unfortunately, I had witnessed what he did last night.

“Honey, are you unwell today? Why do you seem… a bit strange?” Cristian was indeed perceptive. He could easily notice even the slightest change in me. Perhaps it also showed that I wasn’t as good as him at being inconsistent in words and deeds and being two-faced. I forced a smile and made up an excuse casually. “It’s nothing. Maybe it’s because you didn’t come home last night, and I didn’t get a good rest.” A trace of pity welled up in Cristian’s eyes. He roughly pulled me into his arms and planted a firm kiss on my forehead. “I’m sorry, honey. I should have come back last night. I was just worried that I would disturb you if I returned late at night, but I didn’t expect… Sorry. It’s all my fault.” The thought of him passionately kissing another woman last night made me feel disgusted at his move. Overwhelmed by a wave of physical revulsion, I hastily pushed him away. “Honey, what’s wrong?” “It’s nothing. The cold milk tasted fishy, and it made me feel sick.” Cristian quickly poured a glass of warm water and handed it to me, gently patting my back. “If you’re not feeling well, I’ll skip work today and stay home to keep you company.” Some words seem to be spoken only to be contradicted, because just as he finished speaking, his phone rang. Cristian promptly hung up the phone, saying, “I told you I’m going to stay home with you today. Nothing is more important than you.” But the caller was persistent and continued to call. Cristian was annoyed and was about to hang up again, but I said calmly, “Answer it. Maybe it’s something important.” “That’s thoughtful of you, honey.” Even though he said that, Cristian answered the phone quickly. Along with that, he instinctively walked outside, deliberately creating some distance between us. He had never avoided answering calls in front of me before. Maybe it was because the house was too quiet, or maybe I had good hearing. I heard that girl’s voice, whining just like it had been last night. The water cup that Cristian had handed me still had some warmth left, but my heart had already turned completely cold. “Honey, I’m sorry. There’s an urgent matter at the company.” I looked up at him, and the anxiety on his face looked so real. “I promised to stay home with you today, but… It’s the end of the year, and there are a lot of things going on in the company recently. Honey, I…” “You can go. I’ll be fine.” I forced a smile, suddenly realizing that I had worn such a smile countless times. In fact, there had been signs before, but I just hadn’t noticed them. Cristian was obviously distracted, yet he still feigned reluctance to leave. “Thank you, honey.” He leaned in again and kissed between my eyebrows. “Rest assured, honey. I promise to come back early tonight. Wait for me at home, okay?” And then he left. He walked briskly to go and see another woman. And I made an appointment for a medical checkup for myself. If one failed to make a decisive decision when necessary, they’d only endure more suffering in the end. I should sever all ties with him, both physically and emotionally.

When the results of my physical checkup came out, I wasn’t pregnant, and my body had recovered well. I got pregnant half a year after I married Cristian. I still had a job at that time, and I was completely unaware that I was pregnant. Unfortunately, there was an accident at the work site. I tumbled to the ground and miscarried the baby. When Cristian found out, he was furious. With red eyes, he told me how much he felt sorry for me. A man’s tears can, in fact, be a powerful weapon. I was also very sad about the miscarriage. But I couldn’t bear to see my beloved husband consumed by worry all day long. Eventually, I relented and decided to resign. Later, I spent nearly two years conditioning my body, and it was only in the past half year that I started thinking about having another child. I hadn’t taken any contraceptive measures during the few intimate encounters I’d had with Cristian previously. Since I had decided to leave, I didn’t want any unwanted surprise. I was walking out with my medical report when I spotted that familiar figure not far away, the man who had claimed he was swamped at the end of the year, my husband. He was standing in front of the obstetrics and gynecology department at this moment, looking down at the delicate woman in front of him. When the woman spoke, her voice was hoarse with sobs, and there was a hint of humble flattery. “Cristian, can you please let me keep it? This is our child, and I really… can’t bear to give it up.” Cristian frowned, and impatience showed in his eyes. “No. My wife hasn’t even had a child yet. How can you have children first?” “I’m begging you.” The woman tugged at his sleeve and pleaded, “This is my first child. The doctor said that my body isn’t that well, either. If I have an abortion, I don’t know when I’ll be able to have another child.” This woman clearly knew how to use tears and vulnerability to her advantage. “Your wife has also experienced a miscarriage. You know how painful it is and how harmful it is to a woman…” Her words swayed Cristian a little. She continued to press her case, “I promise I’ll be good. I will never show up in front of your wife, and I won’t cause you any trouble. Please, let me keep it. My mother once had my fortune read. She said that my first child will be a boy.” Seeing that Cristian was hesitant, the woman took the opportunity, “You also said before that your wife’s health has been poor since the miscarriage. The doctor also said that the damage she suffered last time was severe, and it would be difficult for her to have a child in the future… “I can be a surrogate mother for you guys! “Cristian, you know how hard it is for a woman to give birth, right? It’s like going through hell. You love her so much. How can you bear to let her go through the pain of childbirth? “Besides, many rich people nowadays hire surrogates. Just consider me a surrogate… I am willing to do it.” The woman looked at him pitifully, “Cristian, even though you only see me as a plaything, I truly like you. “You can consider this child hers, and I’m just giving birth to it. She can raise it later. I will never fight for it or make a fuss. Please…” Cristian looked at her calmly and remained silent for a long, long time. I watched him from a distance, and even my breathing rose and fell with Cristian’s decision. Finally, Cristian let out a long sigh. “Go for the checkup first. We’ll talk about it later.” I turned around expressionlessly and hid in the shadow of the corner. Given our years of tacit understanding and mutual familiarity, I knew that Cristian had caved in.

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A sudden fire broke out at the company. To save Jack, I found myself trapped in the flames. But Jack turned and ran towards Emma, his dream girl assistant who was crying in fear. As I lay there barely breathing, Emma looked at Jack with coy affection. “Hmph, why did you save me? I don’t want to be seen as some pushover!” Jack stroked her head, comforting her. “I’m sorry, sweetheart. How could I let your precious self be in any danger?” He quickly took Emma to the hospital, completely forgetting about my existence. After being rescued, I lost all my previous stubbornness and immediately texted my brother. “Remember that friend you mentioned? I agree to go on a blind date with him.” When Jack found out, he cried and begged me, but it was too late – we were over! After the firefighters rescued me and rushed me to the hospital, I was finally out of danger. Just as I was about to start oxygen therapy, Jack walked by with some test results. Seeing me weak in the hospital bed, he suddenly remembered. Jack looked surprised, then quickly tried to cover it up as he hurried to my side. “Lily, things were so chaotic earlier, I forgot to check on you. But I just asked the doctor and he said you’re fine.” “Look at you, why did you have to be so reckless? Don’t be so impulsive in the future.” I silently looked at the man in front of me, at a loss for words. During the fire, I had pushed him out and ended up trapped in a small space, nearly suffocating to death. The doctor said if I had been brought in any later, I wouldn’t have made it. Yet he hadn’t given me a second thought because of Emma. Now he was making up excuses to pretend he cared. But I no longer believed his false affection. A message from my brother came through. I glanced down at my phone. Thinking it was time to end things completely, to cut all ties. I looked up at Jack and said, “Can you take me home?” Jack was momentarily taken aback and was about to speak when his phone rang. “Jack! My puppy is missing, come help me find him quick!” Emma’s urgent voice reached my ears. I kept a blank expression, pretending I hadn’t heard. Jack glanced at me, then responded anxiously. “Don’t worry, I’ll be right there.” Jack hurriedly hung up the phone and looked at me to explain. “You should take a cab home later. Emma’s dog is lost, I need to help her look for it.” Watching his retreating figure, my heart felt like it had been stabbed, aching terribly. Jack and I had been together for five years. Everyone envied our love. But in the end, it was no match for his dream girl. Ever since Emma appeared, everything changed. He used to firmly oppose nepotism, but he specially arranged an assistant position for her. Emma was constantly late or left early, but it was never counted against her attendance. The company seemed to have special privileges just for her. Years ago, I had worked so hard just to become a formal employee so I could work with him. Jack’s favorite thing to say was, “We need to lead by example.” It turns out the impartial man I thought I knew was nothing more than this.

After replying to my brother’s message, I dragged my exhausted body home. But at the front door, I saw traces of blood and a trail of small paw prints. My heart instantly leapt into my throat. Ignoring my physical discomfort, I followed the blood trail and found Cola barely clinging to life. Cola was a stray cat I had rescued a few years ago. She was timid and sweet, but very intuitive. She would quietly keep me company when Jack was busy, and comfort me when I was upset. Jack was a germaphobe, but because of this little cat, he had even set up a cat bed in the house. He said as long as it made me happy, it was fine. But now, as I prepared to take her away, she was dying. I quickly picked her up to find the first aid kit, but when I entered I saw Jack and Emma. Emma was bandaging her pet dog, while Jack was comforting her. “Don’t cry, it’s okay. I’m sorry, I’ll take care of it right away.” Hearing his words, I immediately rushed over and shouted angrily. “Who are you going to ‘take care of’?” Jack was startled by my appearance. But when he saw the dying cat in my arms, he started scolding me instead. “Throw that thing out! Ungrateful stray, it’s learned to scratch people now!” Emma put on a pitiful act, looking wronged and sad. “Jack, that nasty little street cat is so mean. If my brave puppy hadn’t fought back, I could have been hurt today.” Hearing her words, I felt like my whole world was shattering. Cola’s belly was trembling, her breathing weak, blood still seeping from the wounds on her body. I had no time to argue and quickly searched for the first aid kit. But all the bandages had already been used on Emma’s dog. Jack saw my frantic state and seemed at a loss. “Lily! What are you doing? It’s lost so much blood, it clearly won’t survive!”

Hearing his words, Cola closed her eyes for the last time. I could no longer hold back my tears. I raised my hand and slapped Jack hard across the face. In his shock, I finally collapsed, passing out. In my dream, I seemed to return to when I first rescued the little cat. Jack would care for me then, loving what I loved. It turns out, it was all just a dream. When I woke up, it was already light outside. Jack was by my side taking care of me. He brought over a glass of water, looking at me somewhat helplessly. “Get up and take some medicine. You’re being too emotional – it was just a cat. If you like, we can get another one, can’t we?” Hearing his words, I took the water and threw it in his face. Jack immediately stood up, looking at me angrily. “Lily! You’ve really gone crazy! Emma was right, what a worthless cat. It deserved to die!” With that, he stormed out. I slowly got up, hugging the cat’s body, and found a place to bury her. Looking around this home, familiar yet strange, it was time to end things once and for all. In all our years together, Jack had given me many things. A dusty photo album in the drawer stirred up memories. It was a book Jack had specially made when he was pursuing me. Inside were our chat records. He said keeping these things would ensure we never forgot our initial sweetness. I picked up the album, about to throw it in the fire pit. But I discovered many new photos hidden in a compartment of the album. Behind my back, Jack had so many interactions with Emma. The places I had most wanted to visit, he had gone to with Emma. On the back of the newest photo was written a touching love message: “After traveling mountains and seas, I will make you my wife.” He had never let go of Emma in his heart, yet pretended to love me every day. How ridiculous. I threw the album and everything he had given me into the fire pit. The flames blazed high. Opening the closet, I searched for the last gift my mom gave me before she passed away, but couldn’t find it anywhere. In a panic, I was about to message Jack, when I saw Emma’s social media post. “Handmade DIY clothes. Though ugly, they keep my puppy warm and cozy.”

She had posted a photo of her pet dog, wrapped in that very nightgown. It felt like my heart was being carved out bit by bit. I accidentally fell to the ground, blood flowing from my leg. In a rage, I dragged my injured leg to the company to confront them. Jack was hugging that dog, coaxing Emma. In the trash can were the cut up sleeves of the nightgown. I rushed over and slapped Jack across the face. His eyes went wide. I coldly looked at him and asked, “Where did this nightgown come from?” Jack was stunned by the slap. He yelled loudly. “What are you going crazy about in the middle of the night?” Tears fell as I turned to Emma and demanded, “Who gave you permission to touch my clothes!” Emma looked at me innocently. “It’s just a piece of clothing. Big sis is being too stingy.” Jack gritted his teeth, looking at me with fury in his eyes. “It’s just an old nightgown you never wear. I gave it to the dog. Why are you targeting Emma?” Emma looked at me, then put on a pitiful act. “Lily, last night Jack saw my puppy had no clothes, so he gave it to him. If you’re that attached to it, I can take it off and give it back?” I raised my hand and slapped her hard across the face. Emma stood there stunned, her eyes welling up with tears. Jack saw this and lost it. Without thinking, he forcefully slapped me back. My face stung fiercely, but it didn’t hurt nearly as much as my heart. He clearly knew that nightgown was a birthday gift from my mom before she passed away when I turned 20. I had never worn it, just kept it on the top shelf of my closet. I never imagined it would end up on Emma’s dog. My face throbbed from his slap. He shielded Emma behind him, afraid she had been wronged. “Unreasonable! Lily, I never knew you could be so vicious!” I shakily picked up the tattered nightgown, tears streaming down. This nightgown was the only memento I had left from my mom before she died. But now, it was torn beyond recognition. Jack saw my emotional state and softened his tone slightly. “If you like it that much, I can just buy you a new one. Are you trying to embarrass me on purpose?” “Lily, you’ve really gone too far this time!” Emma looked at me, acting wronged. “I’m so sorry, Lily.” Emma quickly walked over and clung to my arm. I forcefully raised my arm, causing her to tumble down the stairs. “Waaaah…Jack, don’t blame big sis…” While I was in shock, Jack slapped me hard across the face again. My face stung fiercely. I felt like my eardrum would burst. “Lily! How can you be so petty? Picking on her over an old piece of clothing! What’s the point? Your mom died years ago!”

“Lily! Apologize to Emma right now!” Jack’s voice was like thunder in my ears. I never imagined the man I had loved for so many years could be so despicable. Back then, I had insisted on being with him against my family’s wishes. For him, I even missed the chance to see my mom one last time. Now Jack was so disrespectful to a deceased elder. I felt utterly drained of strength, but Jack kept pressing on relentlessly. He had no intention of letting me off. Emma tugged at Jack’s arm, her voice trembling. “It’s okay, Jack. Big sis didn’t mean it. Please forgive her!” He reached out and forcefully grabbed my neck, as if wanting to choke me to death. No matter how I tried to explain, Jack wouldn’t believe me. “Apologize!” I bit down hard on his arm, drawing blood. He finally let go when he felt the pain. “Mad dog!” Jack shoved me hard. The back of my head hit the wall, blood trickling out. But I endured without making a sound. I just wanted to leave this place as quickly as possible. “Jack, let’s break up!” I turned to leave, but Jack let out a cold laugh. “Don’t think using this trick will make me forgive you. If you don’t apologize to Emma, don’t bother coming back!” Hearing his words, I suddenly remembered something. I took off the ring on my finger and threw it at his feet in front of him. “Jack, I wouldn’t come back even if you begged me.”

Jack stared at the ring for a few seconds, then frowned. “Lily! Do you know what you’re doing? Using this to threaten me?” So Jack still remembered – that ring was the one he had personally put on my finger when pursuing me. I had once fantasized about wearing that ring as we walked down the aisle together. He had also promised that once the ring was on, it would be for life. Now, I no longer cared for him at all. I left the company without looking back. Jack kept sending me messages defending Emma. The wound was hurting badly, so I immediately went to the hospital. Unexpectedly, I ran into Ryan there. He was my brother’s friend and a well-known surgeon. Seeing me in such a sorry state, Ryan was surprised. “Miss Lily, let me help bandage that for you.” Ryan had a faint pleasant scent. As he bandaged me up, I unknowingly dozed off. I hadn’t slept so peacefully in days. In my daze, I felt him carefully changing the dressing on my wound. Seeing I had trouble moving, Ryan offered to rent a wheelchair for me. I had just sat down in a chair in the hallway when a grating voice rang out. “How can big sis be so intimate with another man? How can you face Jack?” I turned to look. Emma had bandages on her hand and was clinging tightly to Jack’s arm, looking very close. She was really overstepping her bounds, trying to lecture me now. “If you have nothing to say, then shut your mouth!” I glared at Emma. Her face turned pale and she shrank back into Jack’s arms. Seeing my forceful attitude, Jack’s expression darkened. He seemed angry, as if I had cheated on him. His eyes were full of fury. “Lily, are you that desperate for attention? How can you be so shameless?” His voice was very loud, attracting stares from people around us. Everyone was pointing and whispering, with various harsh criticisms. I ignored him and struggled to stand up and walk away. Jack glared at me with a gloomy expression. “Lily, I’m giving you 10 minutes. Go home right now!”

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Six months ago, my mom knelt on the ground begging me to donate a kidney to my stepsister. Six months later, on the night before my wedding, my mom knelt on the ground again, pleading with me to give up my fiancé to her beloved stepdaughter. My brother slapped me across the face. “Lily, how can you be so inconsiderate? She’s dying, don’t you know?” It’s okay. In two more months, I’ll be dead too. That will make everyone happy. On the eve of my wedding, Mom knelt on the ground begging me: “Lily, please don’t get married yet. Let Lucas stay with Chloe for a while, okay? Chloe has depression, and her condition has worsened since she heard about your wedding… Please, I’m begging you.” I didn’t respond. Then my brother suddenly slapped me hard across the face. He was furious, veins bulging on his neck from anger. I looked at them with a smile: “So, anything Chloe wants, you expect me to sacrifice? My kidney, and now even my future husband – is that right?” Mom’s eyes were red and teary: “Chloe is still young, she… she can’t live without Lucas. I promise you, once Chloe gets better, we’ll let Lucas come back and marry you, okay?” My brother grabbed my wrist: “Lily, stop being difficult. We’re family. Isn’t it good if Chloe can live well?” Lucas knocked and entered the room. His expression was hard to read. He was still wearing the suit for tomorrow’s wedding. I could see the hesitation in his brow, but in the end he just patted my head and said: “Lily, wait for me to come back.” The three of them hurried out, leaving me alone like a confused clown. My traditional wedding dress and white gown still lay on the bed. I looked at the medical report I had just received yesterday in my makeup case. I thought to myself, it’s okay. I’ll be dead soon too. Then everyone will be satisfied. My donated kidney and my future husband – they can all be hers.

Mom had already notified all our relatives and friends that they didn’t need to come tomorrow – the wedding was canceled. Lucas had also informed his family that the wedding would be postponed. As the bride, I had no say in any of this. It was just like six months ago, when Chloe needed dialysis and a kidney transplant due to uremia. The whole family was required to get tested for compatibility. I had always been the least noticeable person in this family. But on the day the test results came out, Mom, Uncle Steve and my brother didn’t stay at the hospital with Chloe as usual. Instead, they prepared an elaborate dinner for me at home. I had never been treated like this before, and felt a bit overwhelmed by the sudden attention. But no one remembered that I’m allergic to seafood. Mom spoke in a placating tone: “Lily, the test results are out… you’re a match for your sister. You can save her…” I stared at the seafood on the table, then suddenly looked up at the three of them: “Do you remember that I’m allergic to seafood?” My brother threw his chopsticks at my face, his expression angry: “Lily, your sister is dying and you’re worried about your seafood allergy?” Mom started crying: “Lily, you have to save her. Don’t forget, Uncle Steve has paid for all your school fees and living expenses since you were little. You should show some gratitude.” It was pouring rain outside that night. Mom knelt down begging me, my brother glared at me with hostility, and Uncle Steve looked at me with pleading eyes. I gave a small laugh: “Mom, if I donate this kidney, can you promise not to make me give up my things for her anymore?” My mom hesitated for a moment, but then nodded vigorously: “I promise you.” I agreed, and the three of them finally breathed a sigh of relief. Looking at the heavy rain outside, Mom hurried to leave. “Chloe is terrified of thunder. She’ll be scared without me there. I need to go to the hospital to be with her.” I was left alone in the room, staring at the table full of seafood. I suddenly remembered when my dad was still alive before his illness – Mom loved me then, my brother doted on me, and the whole family carefully protected me. When did everything start to change? It seems it was twenty years ago, when my dad passed away and Mom remarried Uncle Steve, bringing me and my brother along. He was kind and gentle, and his daughter was lively and lovable – everyone adored her. Meanwhile, I had become quiet and withdrawn after losing my father and our standard of living dropping suddenly. I wasn’t the type of child that adults found endearing. Sometimes when I watched my brother, Mom, Uncle Steve and Chloe together, they looked like a perfect family of four. I was the extra, unnecessary one. Anything I liked, if Chloe happened to like it too, Mom would give it to her instead. Even my own brother, through day after day of interactions, came to favor the stepsister who had no blood relation to him. She would lean affectionately on his shoulder, or hop onto the back of his bicycle after school, ignoring me as I trailed awkwardly behind them. Back then, Chloe said to me: “Big sis, your mom and brother are mine now. You’re really unnecessary.” As I stood there stunned with tears in my eyes, she had already run to my mom, hugging her and acting cute, then turned back to make a face at me.

Thinking back on this, I lay down on the wedding dress on the bed. Suddenly my body was wracked with intense pain, a bone-deep ache that made tears stream uncontrollably from my eyes. I curled up on the wedding dress I had chosen so carefully, crying like an abandoned puppy. The next day, I packed up my things and returned to the small home Lucas and I shared. I sent Lucas a message: “Lucas, I think we need to talk.” Soon, Lucas’ reply came through – a selfie of him with Chloe. He was smiling like that fresh-faced college boy from years ago, his expression relaxed and carefree. I knew this was Chloe’s doing. I called Mom next. She picked up, speaking in a low voice to brush me off: “Lucas is here keeping Chloe company. Her condition is much more stable now. Okay, I can’t talk now, I need to bring Chloe some soup.” I tossed the phone aside and looked at the whimpering dog beside me. It jumped onto my lap, sniffing me, then lay down on my legs. I wondered if dogs could smell sickness on people – it seemed dejected. I patted its head: “Lucky, Mommy needs to take care of something. I’ll come back for you.” I drove to the hospital. Uncle Steve and Mom were lovingly watching over Chloe, peeling an apple for her. My brother and Lucas were by Chloe’s bedside, helping her play a mobile game. Fighting the discomfort in my body, I twisted the door open and walked in. Chloe’s face immediately darkened. She quickly clung to Lucas’ arm and looked at me with red, tearful eyes: “Big sis, can you please let me have Lucas? Please?” Lucas hurriedly stood up and brushed off her hand: “Lily, I was planning to come home soon.” Uncle Steve looked uncomfortable, but still forced a smile: “Lily, Chloe isn’t well yet. Once she recovers, our whole family will attend your wedding.” At this point, Chloe seemed to be strongly triggered. She clutched her head and started screaming loudly. My brother hugged her, patiently comforting her: “It’s okay Chloe, don’t be scared. Your brother is here, I’m right here with you.” Mom pushed me out the door: “Why did you come? Don’t you know seeing you upsets her?” I stared straight into Mom’s eyes: “Mom, do you remember that I’m your real daughter?” A flicker of hesitation passed through her eyes, then she coldly pushed me away: “Lily, don’t be difficult. You were able to go to college and grad school – don’t forget it was all paid for by your Uncle Steve. You should be grateful.” I desperately grabbed Mom’s hand: “Mom, I can pay back all the money to Uncle Steve. Can you please…” She closed the door without looking at me again. I finished my sentence to the empty hallway: “Can you please… not treat me like this?” Lucas pushed open the door and came out. There was guilt hidden in his eyes: “Lily, there’s nothing between me and Chloe. Her depression is very severe.” I looked at this man I had loved for seven years, since freshman year of college. I finally let out a long sigh: “Lucas, that summer during our first year of grad school, when Chloe insisted on coming to our city for an internship – the pet camera at home recorded what you two did every day.” His face went pale. He gripped my sleeve tightly: “Lily, I didn’t do anything with her.” I nodded: “That’s right, you didn’t do anything. You just played games together, watched shows together, walked my dog together. And when she trash-talked me, when she secretly kissed you while you were sleeping on the couch – you didn’t push her away.” “Lily, we’re about to get married.” “Lucas, we’re not getting married anymore. I wanted to pretend I didn’t know, but it seems even pretending can’t cover up some facts. Chloe is indeed more likable than me. Everyone loves her. I can’t keep up this act anymore. Just like how all these years she would constantly send you cute, flirty selfies. Even though you never replied, you were moved by them, weren’t you?” As I turned to leave, Lucas suddenly hugged me from behind: “Lily, I’ll go home with you. We’ve been together for seven years, seven years…” Just then, Chloe’s face appeared in the window. She violently smashed her head against the wall. There was a loud thud. Her forehead started bleeding. She glared at me viciously: “Lily, why do you have to fight me for everything?” Lucas hesitated. He let go of my hand, his gaze evasive. He started to open the door to go back inside. I knew in that moment our seven-year relationship was over. The sounds of Mom and my brother’s scolding voices filled my ears again. The filthiest insults, used in their angriest moments to curse me – the intruder. My brother pinned me against the wall, glaring at me fiercely: “Lily, can’t you just behave? Are you stupid? Do you have to turn the whole family upside down?” I said to my brother and Mom: “Don’t worry, Lucas is Chloe’s now.”

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Three years into our marriage, my wife still refused to have any physical intimacy with me. She claimed to be a germaphobe, saying she disliked physical contact with others. That is, until I discovered her in a hotel room with her first love, only to be beaten to death by the two of them. Reborn to the time just after graduation, I decided to let them be together, hoping we’d never cross paths again. Five years later, she had become a renowned pianist, attending a business conference with her boss and first love. Seeing me appear, Lily crossed her arms and looked at me disdainfully: “Ugh, what bad luck. I can’t believe this lapdog Lucas is still here, a toad lusting after swan’s flesh. He’s actually stalking me!” I smiled, my left arm around Grace, the Summers family’s daughter, and my right hand holding our daughter’s. Later, Lily showed up at my door wearing revealing clothes. “Didn’t you say you’d only love me? Lucas, please, let’s have a child together!” “Oh my, Miss Lily, you look absolutely radiant today. Such grace, truly befitting a famous pianist!” An middle-aged woman approached with an admiring smile. “Standing next to Mr. James, you two make a perfect couple. A match made in heaven, both talented and beautiful.” Lily raised her chin slightly, a look of pride on her face. James stood beside her, beaming with pride, occasionally exchanging pleasantries with those around them. “Indeed, being with Mr. James is truly a perfect combination of the business and art worlds!” Hearing the chorus of praises around her, Lily stood even straighter, her smile growing brighter. She tossed her hair lightly, her eyes full of unrivaled pride. “You’re all too kind. I’ve just put a bit more effort into piano, and James has been very supportive,” Lily said with feigned modesty, but her tone couldn’t hide her satisfaction. “Well, if it isn’t Lily and James! I never expected to run into you here!” A man in a crisp suit quickly approached, his face plastered with a fawning smile. It was Greg, a former classmate from university. She raised an eyebrow slightly, a barely noticeable trace of contempt flashing across her face, but she maintained an elegant smile: “Greg, what a coincidence.” Greg’s gaze swept over Lily and James, then he dramatically gave a thumbs up: “Lily, you’ve really made it big now! A great artist, standing next to Mr. James, you two are simply perfect together! Looking back, I was right all along. Unlike some people back then, a frog trying to swallow a swan, probably still amounting to nothing now.” Greg leaned in closer to Lily, his face full of flattery: “I always knew that Lucas wasn’t good enough for you. It’s great that you’re with Mr. James now, he’s truly your match. Oh, by the way, Mr. James, I was wondering if you could put in a good word with my boss about my promo-” James glanced at him with a hint of disdain, giving a slight nod. I finished instructing my assistant about the conference details, then noticed the cleaning lady had dropped something. I picked it up and handed it back to her. Greg, sharp-eyed, immediately spotted me. His face twisted into an exaggerated mocking expression, pointing at me and loudly exclaiming: “Well, look who it is! Isn’t that Lucas? Speak of the devil! How the mighty have fallen, reduced to helping the cleaning lady. How pathetic!” Lily followed Greg’s pointing finger, her face showing disdain as she let out a light snort: “I thought he might have amounted to something, but turns out he’s just a nobody doing odd jobs. It’s laughable, really.” She raised her chin slightly, her eyes full of contempt. James’ lips curled into a mocking smile, arms crossed, as he said condescendingly: “Now, now, Lily, don’t be like that. The man’s just trying to make a living with his… skills. Someone’s got to do these menial jobs, right?” The people around them, hearing their words, burst into laughter. The cleaning lady, looking nervous, whispered to me: “You don’t have to help me, I don’t want them talking about you like that.” I just smiled and shook my head, continuing to efficiently clean up the trash. Seeing that I didn’t react, Greg became even more animated. He swaggered over to me, deliberately bumping into me, causing some of the trash to spill out again. He then feigned innocence, saying: “Oh, I’m so sorry, I didn’t see you there. But my, aren’t you careless with your work.” James’ lips curled into a smile. He pulled out a business card from his pocket, holding it between his fingers, and carelessly tossed it towards me.

The business card fluttered down, landing next to the trash at my feet. James crossed his arms, a mocking smile on his face, deliberately raising his voice: “Lucas, out of consideration for Lily, I’ll give you a chance. My company happens to need a janitor, and judging by how you work, you seem quite experienced. If you’re willing, you can start right away.” He paused, his eyes full of mockery, and continued: “Of course, my company has high standards, I wouldn’t hire just anyone. If it weren’t for your past with Lily, I wouldn’t even bother with you. You should be grateful to Lily, otherwise you might be picking up trash in places like this for the rest of your life.” Lily covered her mouth, letting out a contemptuous laugh, her eyes full of derision: “Lucas, stop trying to act tough. James is doing you a huge favor. Just be a good boy and go work as a janitor at his company. At least you’ll have a job, instead of embarrassing yourself here. And stop thinking you’re a frog that can swallow a swan. Following me here must have been quite an effort for you. James is giving you this chance because he’s generous, not holding your past obsession with me against you.” Greg chimed in, “That’s right, Lucas. Don’t be ungrateful. Mr. James is willing to give you this opportunity, you should count yourself lucky.” I looked at Lily, standing there proud as a peacock, and couldn’t fathom how I had ever fallen for her. In my previous life, I had doted on her endlessly, trying to fulfill her every whim. Those expensive piano master classes, whenever she asked, I paid for them without hesitation, just so she could progress further in her piano career. For her, I even gave up my expertise and passion in computer science, diving headfirst into the unfamiliar real estate industry. Because she thought real estate was lucrative, no matter how I tried to explain the current development trends to her, she insisted I work in real estate. Later, I found out it was because James was in real estate. Back then, I foolishly believed that as long as I could make her happy, any sacrifice was worth it. But reality was cruel. Due to my lack of experience in real estate, my investments repeatedly failed. Not only did I lose everything, but I also thoroughly disappointed my family, who cut off my financial support. Even then, I never complained about her. Every idea of mine was shot down by her; she always demanded that I act according to her wishes. She remained obsessed with luxury goods and expensive cars. When I couldn’t afford to satisfy her desires, she forced me to take out high-interest loans. To be with her, I completely fell out with my family. They strongly disapproved of my investment philosophy, thinking I had lost my mind, consumed by love. At that time, I was destitute, running around trying to repay debts, working day and night. Once, she wanted to buy a limited edition luxury bag, but I simply couldn’t afford it. I still remember our conversation from that time. “Lucas, look at how pathetic you are now. I really don’t know what I was thinking when I got together with you!” Lily crossed her arms, her eyes full of disgust. “I used to be the dream girl for so many people. Being with you, I must have used up all my bad luck for eight lifetimes!” Yes, Lily was beautiful, and there were indeed many boys pursuing her at the time. I fell for her the moment I saw her. That’s why I cherished her so much after we got together. I looked at her, somewhat pitifully saying, “Lily, I’ve sacrificed so much for you. Why have you never seen it?” “You call that sacrifice?” Lily sneered, “Look at yourself now, you’ve achieved nothing and you’re drowning in debt. I should have listened to James from the start and stayed away from a loser like you.” “James, James, it’s always James with you!” I couldn’t help raising my voice, “If you like him so much, why did you even get together with me in the first place?” “It was because you relentlessly pursued me, and I was young and naive then. I was fooled by you!” Lily glared at me, her eyes wide with anger. “It was only after I got together with you that I realized you could never give me the life I wanted. Look at James, he’s already successful in his career at such a young age, driving luxury cars, living in mansions. And you? You can’t even afford to buy me a designer bag!” “So you regret being with me?”

I looked at her, feeling a wave of sadness. “Why didn’t you just reject me outright back then, instead of having me do so much for you?” “Hmph, you did all that willingly, what’s it got to do with me?” Lily sneered, curling her lip in disdain. “Besides, I wanted to see just how far you’d go for me. Who knew you’d be so useless, couldn’t even manage a real estate business properly.” “I tried my best. I gave up my passion for computer science for you, entering a field I knew nothing about. Wasn’t that hard enough?” I shook my head helplessly. Lily said contemptuously, “James is a hundred times better than you with just a single word. If I had listened to him back then, I wouldn’t be in this situation now.” Lily justified herself, “And you, you could never give me what I wanted. I regret being with you, you wasted my youth!” Married to Lily for three years, dating for one, throughout these four years, she always used her germaphobia as an excuse to avoid me, even refusing the most basic physical intimacy. Over time, I got used to this sexless marriage, assuming she really did have severe germaphobia. Though disappointed, I could only silently endure. Until that day, when I suddenly received a hotel booking message from an unknown number on my phone. The moment I saw the content of the message, my mind went blank, and I was completely stunned. My hand holding the phone couldn’t stop shaking, my eyes fixed on that line of text, which clearly showed the hotel address and room number. An ominous feeling welled up in my heart, but I still clung to a glimmer of hope that this was just a prank. I went to the address, and as I stood outside the room, my heart was in my throat. Before I could knock, I heard unmistakable sounds coming from inside the room. My blood seemed to freeze, and all I could hear were those nauseating noises. I tried to discern the voices, and the woman’s voice was so familiar. The door opened, and there stood James, shirtless. His hair was disheveled, his face still flushed, a flash of panic crossed his eyes, but he quickly regained his composure. Inside the room, Lily was wearing sexy lingerie I had never seen before. Fearing their affair would be exposed, they dragged me into the room and beat me to death. I can still recall the despair I felt at that moment. I snapped back to reality, those painful memories receding like a tide, while Greg’s disgusting face came back into focus. “Lucas, with your lack of success, you’re only fit for these lowly jobs,” Greg continued to grin, relentlessly mocking me, his face full of smug satisfaction. Ignoring him, I walked over to a nearby table, intending to sit down. He tried to trip me, but I noticed and deliberately stepped on his shoe. “Fuck you, watch where you’re going! You’ve dirtied my shoes!” He said, lifting his foot towards me, his eyes full of challenge. “What are you waiting for? Get down on your knees and clean my shoe! Consider it your apology for being such a klutz.” Hearing this, the group of people fawning over James burst into laughter, their eyes full of contempt. I coldly stared at him, saying nothing. Just then, Lily suddenly frowned, a complex emotion flashing in her eyes. She bit her lip slightly, seeming somewhat hesitant. “Greg, that’s enough,” Lily’s voice suddenly rang out, tinged with impatience. “He’s still… There’s no need to go that far.” Hearing Lily’s words, Greg’s face showed surprise, quickly replaced by a fawning smile. “Lily, I just couldn’t stand the sight of him. I wanted to teach him a lesson for you.” “That’s enough, stop it,” Lily waved her hand, her eyes flashing with a barely noticeable panic as she turned her head slightly away. James also frowned beside her, his eyes full of displeasure. “Greg, don’t waste time on someone like him. We have important matters to discuss.” Greg quickly nodded, his face full of a bootlicking smile. “Yes, yes, Mr. James is right.” They found a table and sat down. James picked up a glass of champagne, taking a small sip, his eyes revealing a hint of eagerness and greed. “I heard that the daughter of the Summers Group and the son of the Navigator Group will both be attending today. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If we can establish a connection with them, our company’s development will be smooth sailing.” James put down his glass, his gaze sweeping around the room. “I’ve heard that these two giant corporations have formed a marriage alliance. Do you think they’ll leave any opportunities for us smaller companies? I heard the son of Navigator Group hasn’t been seen in public for a long time. I was even thinking of introducing my daughter to him!” An older small business owner chimed in, agreeing with James. Lily nodded slightly, a calculating look flashing in her eyes. Just as James and the others were enthusiastically discussing how to build relationships with the Summers Group and Navigator Group, there was a sudden commotion in the crowd, with everyone turning to look. I knew Grace had arrived. Grace was wearing an elegant evening gown that far outshone Lily. When Lily saw Grace’s face, the jealousy in her eyes was almost palpable. Her brother, Edward, was holding our daughter’s hand, walking beside her. James’ eyes lit up. He immediately put down his glass, adjusted his collar, and quickly went to greet them. “Miss Summers, it’s truly my honor to see you here today.” James’ face was full of a fawning smile, his eyes revealing a hint of eagerness. The people around also gathered, starting to shower Grace with compliments. “Miss Summers, you look absolutely stunning today. Your aura is simply unmatched.” Lily, not to be outdone, pushed through the crowd. With a sycophantic smile on her face, she said to Edward: “You must be the young master of Navigator Group. You’re truly accomplished at such a young age.” Edward frowned in displeasure, not even sparing Lily a glance. At this moment, our daughter broke free from Edward’s hand and ran towards me, sweetly calling out, “Daddy!” Hearing our daughter’s voice, everyone around froze. The smiles on James and Lily’s faces instantly turned rigid. Grace also walked over, smiling as she took my hand, saying softly, “Lucas, sorry to keep you waiting.”

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After discovering my husband was cheating on me, I slept with his best friend, Ethan Carter. Do I regret it? No. If anything, I should’ve done it sooner. I pinned Ethan against the wall, biting his jawline lightly before teasing him, “You’re pathetic—you can’t even go after the woman you like.” Ethan’s Adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed hard. “You’re my best friend’s wife.” “Wife?” I scoffed, tugging on his tie. “Ethan, stop lying to yourself.” My name is Nicole Shaw. A lot of people envy me. They think I hit the jackpot when I married my husband, Ryan Harris. And why wouldn’t they? Ryan went from a fresh graduate to a successful entrepreneur with millions in the bank. Meanwhile, I became a stay-at-home mom after having our son, with a nanny to handle the housework so I could spend my free time at yoga classes, spas, or sipping tea with other wives in the neighborhood. To outsiders, I was living the dream. But I knew better. I’ve known about Ryan’s affair for a long time. Ryan is 38, fit, successful, and in his prime. How could he resist the endless swarm of women throwing themselves at him? Men can’t control their impulses, and even if you try to stop them, they’ll find a way. No matter how well I take care of myself, I’m still a 30-something woman he’s grown bored of. Men are simple creatures—they’ll always want someone younger, fresher. When I first found out, I thought of confronting him. I even considered filing for divorce. But in the end, I chose to endure it. Why? Because of my son, James. He’s only ten years old and idolizes his father. I want him to grow up happy and carefree. Besides, I’m a stay-at-home mom—would I even get custody in a divorce? And if I did, could I give him the life he has now? “Mom, can I get the new LEGO set?” James asked me one day, his innocent smile lighting up his face. Looking at him, I kept reminding myself: all of this is worth it. Men cheating isn’t exactly breaking news. When I was younger, I used to scoff at wives who stayed with their unfaithful husbands, thinking they were pathetic for putting up with it. But now that it’s my turn? I realize staying is the smartest choice. What would divorce get me? A big payout? Ha. Ryan isn’t stupid. If I confronted him, I’d be lucky if he didn’t saddle me with a mountain of debt. I know him too well—he’d do it without a shred of guilt. Ryan controls the money with an iron grip. He’s never let me near the company finances. All I get is the allowance he gives me. Love allowed me to feel joy, anger, and sorrow, but marriage taught me to weigh the pros and cons. I’ve stood by Ryan through thick and thin, helping him build everything he has today. Why should I let some other woman take my place? I locked myself in the bathroom and cried for an entire day. But when I came out, I had learned one of the most important lessons of being a stay-at-home wife: how to keep up appearances. By the time I stepped out, my makeup was flawless once again. That’s when Ethan showed up at the door, carrying a box of crabs. “Nicole, Ryan’s got a business dinner tonight,” he said awkwardly. “He asked me to drop these off for you.” I let out a soft laugh. “A business dinner? Ethan, do you really think I’d fall for that?” Ryan, Ethan, and I all went to college together. Ryan and Ethan were two years ahead of me. They started their business together and have been inseparable ever since. Ethan and I got along well enough that my son calls him “Uncle Ethan.” Ethan’s eyes darted away, avoiding mine. I smiled, glancing over at James, who was busy with his homework in the study. “It’s fine. You don’t have to say anything. I’m not planning on divorcing him.” “I’m sorry,” Ethan murmured, pushing his glasses up nervously. “You don’t need to apologize to me,” I said calmly. “If anything, I should be thanking you.” Ethan looked startled. Because it was true—if it weren’t for his subtle hints, I wouldn’t have figured out Ryan was cheating so quickly. Ethan, caught between loyalty to his best friend and sympathy for me, was in an impossible position. I didn’t hold it against him. Instead, I extended my hand to him with a small, knowing smile. “This will just be our little secret, won’t it?” Ethan hesitated but eventually shook my hand. The touch was brief, and his hand pulled away almost immediately. 2. I had already uncovered the identities of the women Ryan was seeing on the side, but at this point, I couldn’t care less. That is, until I noticed something strange: Ryan had suddenly taken an interest in attending our son James’s school events. In the past, I was always the one who went to parent-teacher conferences. Ryan was “too busy with work” to bother. But recently, after James begged him to come to his school’s sports day, Ryan actually showed up to cheer him on. And ever since then, he’d started making time to pick James up from school. Ryan explained it to me casually: “I went to the school, and James’s teacher gave me a lecture about ‘absent parenting.’ Told me I can’t just ignore my son’s life. So here I am, spending more time with the kid.” Seeing James so happy made me happy too, but something didn’t sit right with me. Ryan wasn’t the type of man to listen to anyone, let alone take advice from a teacher. Call it women’s intuition, but I decided to eavesdrop on one of Ryan’s phone calls. That’s when I found out about his affair with James’s new English teacher, Annie Jo. “Ms. Jo, maybe you can teach me a thing or two as well,” Ryan said, his voice dripping with flirtation. “What’s the rush?” she replied coyly. “If it’s with you, I’ll always have time. Not just a day—a lifetime, if you want it.” Their sickeningly sweet conversation made me want to throw up. Annie Jo was a fresh-faced, soft-spoken intern who had just started teaching at James’s school. She’d only graduated last year, and I’d even exchanged pleasantries with her a few times. James adored her, and up until now, I’d thought she was lovely. I couldn’t believe someone like her would stoop so low. Rage bubbled up inside me, nearly consuming me. I wanted to storm in and scratch Ryan’s face off. How dare he? Cheating was bad enough, but to go after our son’s teacher? Was he not disgusted with himself? And Annie Jo… seriously? She was young, pretty, and had a respectable job. Was she really that desperate? Listening to Ryan’s slimy sweet talk, I bit my lip so hard it nearly bled. But I knew I couldn’t expose them just yet. If I did, James would be the one caught in the middle of the fallout. They didn’t care about my son, but I did. Ryan’s betrayal might have pushed me to the edge, but it was James who kept me from falling. Still, I wasn’t planning to be a doormat anymore. These two deserved a lesson they’d never forget. I didn’t have a solid plan yet, but one way or another, I was going to make them pay. First, I needed proof. So I started following Ryan after work. It didn’t take long to catch him meeting up with Annie—dinner dates, shopping trips, romantic strolls. To an outsider, they might’ve looked like a regular couple. But Annie wasn’t like Ryan’s usual flings. With most women, Ryan was generous, but it was strictly transactional—money for time, affection, and nothing more. But with Annie, he was different. He was patient. If you want to know whether a man really likes someone, just watch how much time he’s willing to waste on her. Part of the reason Ryan played along with Annie’s romantic games was that he hadn’t gotten what he wanted from her yet. They were both skilled players, trading moves in a careful game of seduction. One evening, I watched from the shadows as Ryan dropped Annie off at her apartment. He leaned in to kiss her, but she turned her head away at the last second. “I’m sorry, Ryan,” she said softly, her voice trembling with fake innocence. “I know this is wrong, but I can’t help myself. When you call me, I get so happy. When you ask me out, I can’t say no…” Ryan pulled her into his arms. “Annie, it’s not your fault. My marriage has been over for a long time. My wife and I don’t love each other anymore. You’re the one I truly care about. Once I divorce her, we’ll get married, okay?” Annie blushed and lowered her head. “But what about James? Will he be okay with this?” “You know how much James likes you,” Ryan said without hesitation. Hearing that, my nails dug into my palms so hard that my new manicure snapped. The physical pain didn’t even register compared to the storm of anger and heartbreak inside me. These two scumbags were plotting to take my son away from me. Did they really think James would accept a homewrecker as his new stepmom? Whenever Ryan and I argued, James always took my side. He was like a little adult, wagging his finger at his father and saying, “Dad, women are supposed to be treated with love. You can’t bully Mom.” I had no doubt that this time would be no different. 3. But soon, I came to a painful realization—my beloved son, James, was never on my side. All along, it had been nothing more than my own wishful thinking. This weekend, Ryan said he wanted to take James out for some “father-son bonding time.” He told me it was just the two of them, so I wasn’t invited. Like always, I played the role of the dutiful wife, smiling and waving them off at the door. But as soon as they left, I changed into casual clothes and followed them. And, of course, I caught them halfway through the drive as they picked up Annie Jo. I clenched my fists, forcing myself to hold back my anger. A bitter smile spread across my face. There’s no way my son would be won over by a few cheap tricks. James might be young and innocent, but he’s a sharp kid. These days, kids know far more than we think—exposure to the internet and media makes sure of that. Even if parents or teachers don’t explain certain things, they figure it out on their own. At least, that’s what I told myself. But I was wrong. James wasn’t the least bit surprised to see Annie join them. On the contrary, he was thrilled. “Aunt Annie! It’s so much fun getting to hang out with you!” he exclaimed, his excitement practically bouncing off the car windows. Inside, I was screaming. James, she’s not your sweet teacher anymore—she’s the homewrecker trying to become your new mom! But James couldn’t hear me. The three of them spent the day happily wandering around the amusement park. I followed at a distance, watching as they laughed and played together. When they were done, they headed to a cozy little family-owned restaurant for lunch. After their meal, they continued to a nearby mall, buying clothes and toys for James. James’s smile never left his face that entire day. At one point, I heard him tell Annie, “Aunt Annie, you have such great taste! I don’t really like the stuff my mom picks out for me.” Then he added, “Aunt Annie, I wish you were my mom. My mom’s always bossing me around—telling me what I can’t eat, what I can’t play with. We don’t have anything in common. You’re way cooler than her.” And then, the final blow: “My mom’s like a tiger sometimes, always yelling. You’re so much gentler than she is.” Ryan glanced over at him with a smirk. “So, what if Aunt Annie actually became your mom? Would you be okay with that?” James paused for a second, then shrugged. “Hmm… I’d have to think about it.” In that moment, their voices faded as my world spun around me. I felt dizzy, like the ground had been ripped out from under me. I had accepted Ryan’s infidelity—I had resigned myself to it. But I never expected to fail so completely that I couldn’t even hold onto my own son’s love.

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Evan Grant has always had a “first love.” After giving birth to his son, she disappeared, leaving him behind with an incomplete family. To give his son a sense of normalcy, Evan found me—a woman who bore a slight resemblance to her. For three years, I played the role of the perfect woman for their little family: Gentle, kind, resourceful, and most importantly, emotionally stable. But everything changed the day I went to pick up his son from school and overheard something. Miles proudly told his classmates that I was just the nanny and that his real mom was coming back soon. It was Friday, which was supposed to be Evan’s day to pick up Miles from school. Every Friday was their father-son bonding time. Without fail, Evan would take him to a family-friendly restaurant for dinner, a tradition they’d kept for three years. But today, Evan called me last minute to say he had to leave for a business trip—and that I needed to pick Miles up instead. I rushed from the hospital to the preschool. When I arrived, the classroom was nearly empty, with only a few kids left waiting for their parents. Miles was surrounded by a small group of children, all of them admiring the charm bracelet on his wrist. “Wow, Miles, your bracelet is so pretty!” “Where did you get it? I’m going to ask my mom to buy me one too!” Miles puffed out his chest, looking smug. “My mom designed this just for me. You can’t buy it anywhere.” “Wow, your mom is amazing!” “She makes cupcakes and designs jewelry? I wish she were my mom too.” “I want your mom! My mom is so mean.” Under normal circumstances, I was the one who picked up Miles from school. He was more mature than most kids his age, but that also made him a bit withdrawn. To help him make friends, I often brought homemade treats for him to share with his classmates. This little gesture worked wonders—Miles became the most popular kid in his class. Everyone assumed I was his mom, even though he never once called me that. I smiled faintly from the doorway. The cupcakes? Yes, those were my handiwork. The bracelet? Absolutely not. I quietly stepped back, not wanting to interrupt. Sure enough, just as I expected, Miles’ voice—still soft but dripping with disdain—broke through the chatter: “She’s not my mom!” “She’s just my nanny.” “My real mom is a jewelry designer, and she’s awesome!” The kids gasped in unison, their admiration for Miles’ “real mom” growing louder as they bombarded him with questions. I stood at the back door, watching Miles beam as he talked about his mom. Surprisingly, I didn’t feel much of anything. In a way, he wasn’t wrong. Sure, his words were a bit harsh, but they weren’t entirely untrue. From the moment I married Evan, caring for him and Miles had become my only job. And while it was true that my duties often resembled those of a nanny, I wasn’t just any nanny—I was Evan’s legal wife. Technically speaking, I was Miles’ stepmother, not his babysitter. Miles was the son of Evan Grant and the brilliant jewelry designer Mina Scott. But Mina disappeared shortly after giving birth, leaving no legal ties between her and Evan. As Miles grew older, Evan began to notice the cracks in their little family. So, he started looking for a stepmother for Miles, someone who could give him a “complete” home. That’s where I came in. Out of all the candidates, I stood out because I looked just enough like Mina—maybe a 30% resemblance. The day I entered their lives, Miles knew I wasn’t his real mom. And I never intended to replace her. After all, Evan and I had a clear agreement: We were in a contract marriage. Three years, that was all. For those three years, Evan got a stand-in wife. Miles got a stepmother. And I got $3 million. I couldn’t say no. I needed the money—desperately. On the way home, I acted like I hadn’t heard a thing. I chatted with Miles as usual, asking him what he wanted for dinner. I’ve always known my place—I only take what I’m meant to take. Anything outside of that? I don’t concern myself with it. Miles, with his little serious face, rattled off a few dishes. I noticed him swallowing hard, trying to hide his excitement. I had to bite back a laugh. Say what you will, but my cooking skills are top-notch. Over the past three years, both Evan and Miles have filled out quite nicely. When we got home, Miles immediately locked himself in his room. I didn’t pay him any mind and headed straight to the kitchen to start cooking. Once the three dishes and a soup were ready, I went to call him for dinner. But as I raised my hand to knock, I heard laughter from inside his room. Miles was on a video call. Since he had the speakerphone on, I could hear everything clearly. There was Evan’s voice, and then… a woman’s voice. She called Miles “sweetheart,” and he excitedly called her “mom.” Miles was practically buzzing with joy as he told her how all his classmates envied his bracelet. At first, I thought Evan had bought the bracelet for him, just like he had done before to cheer him up. It wouldn’t have been the first time. Even though Mina had been gone for years, Evan had always made an effort to keep her presence alive for Miles—just in case she ever came back. But now, hearing this, it seemed the bracelet really was Mina’s design. After six long years, Evan had finally found her. This “business trip” of his? It was clearly a mission of love. How romantic. Not wanting to interrupt their little family reunion, I quietly returned to the dining table and distracted myself with my phone. When I heard Miles hang up, I knocked on his door and called him to eat. After dinner, I started cleaning up while Miles lingered at the table, looking like he wanted to say something but couldn’t bring himself to. Miles is practically a miniature version of Evan—handsome and refined, with an air of quiet confidence. His eyes, though, are even more striking. Maybe it’s because they’re so pure, so unguarded. They remind me of a pair of eyes I used to know, though they’re not quite the same. Leaning against the table, I smiled and asked, “Do you have something you want to tell me?” Miles pressed his lips together, hesitated for a moment, then shook his head and headed back to his room. I didn’t take it personally, nor did I care to press further. My job is simple: make sure he’s fed, clothed, and taken care of. Anything beyond that? Not my business, and not something I can control. Later that night, I wrapped myself in a blanket and sat on the couch, bawling my eyes out over a movie. When Evan came home, that’s exactly how he found me—face blotchy and swollen from crying. He looked shocked, and I felt embarrassed. I scrambled to stand up, my voice thick with congestion as I blurted out, “Why are you back so early?” He walked over, his gaze soft and steady, and even his tone was unusually gentle. “Why are you still up so late?” I pointed at the TV. “Watching a movie.” He studied me for a moment, sighed quietly, and reached out as if to pat my head. Before I could pull away, his phone rang. The caller ID said “Mina.” He stepped onto the balcony to take the call, while I slipped away into the kitchen to give him privacy. When he finished, I came back out. “Evan, let’s finalize the divorce next week.” Mina was back, and the timing couldn’t have been better—our agreement was almost up anyway. I thought Evan would agree without hesitation. After all, I’d served my purpose, and now that his true love had returned, my role as a stand-in was no longer necessary. But instead, his expression turned cold. “You’re in such a rush to get divorced?” “I’m busy next week.” With that, he walked away, heading straight for Miles’ room, leaving me standing there, completely bewildered. Evan and I may technically be husband and wife, but in reality, our relationship is more like a business arrangement. He pays, I work—it’s as simple as that. Now that the contract is about to expire and he’s reunited with the woman he’s been searching for all these years, shouldn’t we both be happy to part ways? So why is he acting like this? Evan spent the entire weekend working overtime at the office, leaving early and coming home late. I didn’t get another chance to bring up the divorce. On Monday morning, he handed me a small box out of nowhere, saying it was something he’d picked up at an auction. I was busy getting Miles ready for school, so I just tossed it into my bag without a second thought. As usual, I brought some homemade cupcakes for the kids at the preschool. They crowded around me, their sweet little voices ringing out, “Thank you, Auntie!” Miles stood off to the side, watching me quietly. After a moment, he slipped past the other kids and headed into the classroom without a word. Once I dropped him off, I had the driver take me to the hospital. When I got to the room, Sophia was by the window, practicing tai chi. She smiled when she saw me. “What’s on the menu today?” I held up the thermos in my hand. “Your favorite—chicken and mushroom porridge.” We sat on the bed, each with a bowl in hand, eating together. I pulled out my phone, opened the photo gallery, and handed it to her. “This is our house in Windmere. I had someone clean it up already.” “When you’re discharged next week, take Ayden there first, see if there’s anything else we need to add. Once I’m done here, I’ll join you both.” Sophia looked through the photos but didn’t say anything, just nodded quietly. I held my bowl and turned to look out the window. Through the glass, the sky was a brilliant blue. Fluffy clouds floated lazily in the breeze, and willow branches swayed gently in the wind. “Celia, we’ve been such a burden on you,” Sophia said softly. I kept my eyes on the clouds and replied, “Sophia, do you think Ayden would’ve liked that little house?” She froze for a moment, then her gaze softened, a faint smile spreading across her face. “He would’ve loved it. My brother adored windy places.” I smiled too. “That’s good to hear.” Sophia didn’t say anything else, just let out a quiet sigh. We sat there together, watching the clouds drift by, the trees swaying, and the sunlight shifting. On the bench outside, a mother and daughter were replaced by a couple, and later, by an elderly man sitting alone. People come and go in life, just like that—always in a hurry. I broke the silence. “Sophia, there’s no need for us to talk about being a burden.” “Without you and Ayden, there wouldn’t be a Celia in this world.” “We’ve been a family for ten years. That hasn’t changed.” In the afternoon, after finishing some grocery shopping, I went to pick Miles up from school. But when I got there, the teacher told me he had been picked up earlier in the day. She said he’d left with his mom and dad. Back in the car, I debated whether to call Evan to confirm. It was most likely him and Mina who picked Miles up, but when it comes to kids, it’s always better to be cautious. Just as I was about to dial his number, I noticed a notification on my phone—it was from Evan’s social media account. He had just posted something five minutes ago. I opened it. It was a nine-photo collage. The center photo was a shot of the three of them—Evan, Mina, and Miles—smiling brightly on a beach, all dressed in matching family outfits. Miles looked genuinely happy, the kind of carefree joy I hadn’t seen in him in three years. For once, even Evan was wearing something colorful. Standing next to Mina, his usual stern demeanor seemed to melt away, replaced by a softer, more relaxed expression. They looked like the perfect family. Since the post had already confirmed everything for me, there was no need to call. With Evan and Miles gone for a few days, I treated it as a mini vacation. Every day, I cooked meals and brought them to the hospital to eat with Sophia. We’d take walks together, browse the shops nearby, and enjoy the slow, peaceful days. It was a rare bit of leisure. I got Evan’s call in the middle of the night. I had already fallen asleep but was jolted awake by the ringing of my phone. On the other end, Evan’s voice sounded exhausted, and I could hear Miles crying in the background. “Celia, can you come to the children’s hospital?” He explained that Miles hadn’t been sleeping well these past few days, and after spending time in the sea breeze, he suddenly developed a high fever. Now they were at the hospital, but Miles was inconsolable and refusing to cooperate. I glanced at the pitch-black night outside, got up, and started getting dressed. Miles had always been a restless sleeper. When I first came into Evan’s life, Miles would often wake up crying in the middle of the night, and I’d spend hours holding him, singing lullabies to calm him down. He’d gotten much better in the past two years, but he still had his quirks. If he ever had to sleep somewhere unfamiliar, he needed his favorite pillow, bedsheets, and pajamas—otherwise, he wouldn’t sleep well. Whenever Miles traveled with his grandparents, I always packed these things for him in advance. Because I’d always handled it, Evan didn’t know about any of this. As I approached the hospital room, I could already hear Miles’ cries echoing down the hallway. His voice was hoarse from all the crying. I had expected Mina to be there, but when I walked in, it was just Evan and Miles. Evan’s tense expression relaxed slightly when he saw me. “You’re here,” he said, relief evident in his voice. On the hospital bed, Miles’ small face was flushed bright red—whether from the fever or from crying, I couldn’t tell. I told Evan to pick him up. While he held the child, I quickly replaced the hospital bed’s sheets, pillowcase, and blanket with the ones I had brought, then changed Miles into his familiar pajamas. I lay down beside Miles on the bed, holding him close and humming softly until his cries subsided. Gradually, he calmed down, curling up in my arms and clutching the edge of my shirt. Softly, he murmured, “Mommy.” I stroked his feverish cheek, sighing to myself. He was clearly delirious from the fever. I wasn’t his mom. I was just the nanny. After all the chaos, Miles finally fell into a peaceful sleep. The nurse was able to administer the shot without any trouble, and I joined Evan on the sofa to rest. Evan handed me a glass of water and rubbed his temples. “Sorry for disturbing you so late,” he said. I shook my head. “It’s fine. This is part of my job,” I replied. “Next time you take him somewhere, just remember to pack his pillow, pajamas, and bedsheets. It’ll make things easier.” Evan looked at me for a moment before asking, “Have you opened the little box I gave you the other day?” “No, not yet. Is it something important?” I reached for my bag on the other side of the sofa and pulled out the small box. When I opened it, I found a diamond ring inside. Before I could react, Evan covered my hand with his. “Celia,” he said softly, “don’t divorce me, okay?” I didn’t know what happened between Evan and Mina that made him willing to let go of someone he had waited six years for and turn to me with a marriage proposal. But I knew one thing for sure—it wasn’t because he loved me. Evan is the kind of man who’s terrifyingly rational and self-disciplined. Every decision he makes is calculated, weighed carefully to ensure it’s the most logical and beneficial choice. I had no interest in figuring out his motives. I’ve never been one to waste energy on things that don’t matter. I pulled my hand away from his and placed the ring on the coffee table. “Evan, we’re just contract partners. The agreement has expired. It’s time for us to end this.” He sat beside me, as if he hadn’t heard a word I said. Instead, he started explaining. “Celia, if this is about Mina, you don’t have to worry.” “It’s over between us. The only reason I saw her was because she wanted to spend time with Miles. There won’t be any contact between us moving forward.” He paused, then added, “These past few years, having you around has been comforting. Miles relies on you so much. Isn’t this life… good enough?” I looked at Evan, my expression calm. “No, it’s not.” “I don’t know or care what’s going on between you and Mina, but there’s no chance for us.” The only reason I agreed to this contract marriage in the first place was to pay for Sophia’s medical treatment. Now that she’s recovered, we have our own plans, our own lives to live. We’re going to settle down in a place where the wind never stops. Evan clearly hadn’t expected me to turn him down so bluntly. For the first time, I saw a flicker of hurt in his eyes. “Celia, do you really feel nothing for me?” I smiled faintly. “Of course I do—gratitude for a very generous employer.” I meant it sincerely. If it weren’t for the $3 million he gave me back then, Sophia and I wouldn’t have survived. That’s why, for the past three years, I’ve done everything I could to care for him and Miles. For anything related to them, I’ve always been there when they needed me. But that’s as far as it goes. I thought I’d made myself clear, but Evan didn’t seem ready to accept it. “You don’t need to answer me right away. I’m not in a hurry.” “It’s late. Let me have the driver take you home. I’ll stay here and take care of things.” Miles had developed a mild case of pneumonia from his prolonged fever and needed to stay in the hospital for a few days. Evan moved his work into the hospital room and stayed by Miles’ side the entire time. Mina, however, never showed up. Every day, I cooked meals at home and brought them to the hospital. One day, as I was feeding Miles lunch, I suddenly got a call from the hospital. The voice on the other end told me Sophia had suffered a brain hemorrhage and was in critical condition. The bowl slipped from my hands and shattered on the floor, the sound startling Miles. Evan happened to walk in at that moment. He rushed over to me, concern written all over his face. “What happened?” he asked. My hands were trembling uncontrollably, my mind blank, my breath catching in my throat. How could this be happening? I had just seen her yesterday. She was fine. She was supposed to be discharged tomorrow. Everything was supposed to be getting better. How could this happen? Clutching Evan’s sleeve, tears streamed down my face. It took everything I had to force out a single sentence. “Take me to Memorial Hospital.” Evan helped me to my feet and guided me outside. He called for two nurses to stay with Miles and phoned his parents to come to the hospital. Then he drove as fast as he could to get me to Sophia. The doctor told me that Sophia had collapsed while walking in the courtyard. The location of the bleed in her brain was critical, and they advised me to prepare for the worst. Thunder rumbled outside as heavy rain poured down, washing away days of suffocating heat. The air felt damp, thick with the scent of wet pavement. After eight hours of emergency treatment, Sophia was gone. The two lights in my life had both gone out, one after the other, leaving nothing but darkness behind. I quietly handled all of Sophia’s funeral arrangements on my own. Evan offered to help, but I didn’t let him. The day of her cremation, the sun was glaringly bright. I stood on the side of the street, holding her urn. Occasionally, I would catch snippets of conversation from passersby. “After so many overcast days, the sun’s finally out. What a beautiful day.” I looked up at the blazing sun, its rays harsh and unrelenting. It struck me as strange—how could such a bright sun fail to warm me at all? I didn’t know how long I stood there, frozen in place, unable to take a single step forward. Everyone else on the street seemed to have somewhere to go, a destination calling them forward. But I didn’t. Once, I didn’t know where I came from. And now, I didn’t know where to go. “Let’s go home.” I hadn’t noticed when Evan arrived, but he gently took my arm and guided me to the car. When we got back, I lay down and fell into a restless sleep. I dreamed—fragmented, hazy dreams that blurred the line between reality and illusion. At some point, I became vaguely aware of someone sitting by my bedside. A hand reached out to touch my forehead, as if checking my temperature. The room was dark, with no lights on, except for a faint beam of light spilling in from the doorway. The figure sat with their back to the light, their face obscured in shadow. Instinctively, I raised my hand and touched his eyes. He caught my hand, his grip firm but steady. His voice was calm, steady, and low. “Do I remind you of him?” In that instant, I snapped awake. I tried to pull my hand back, but he only held it tighter.

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My boyfriend of five years finally proposed to me. Filled with joy, I celebrated a bit too much that night. The man I knew to be calm and considerate seemed to have vanished. He accused me of lacking self-control and left me alone and intoxicated by the roadside. Battling a headache, I wandered the chilly streets by myself for what seemed like an eternity. When I got home, I found him in our new house, embracing another woman. “I regret it. If you come back, I’m willing to call off the wedding for you.” Watching him shower her with the tenderness I once knew, I suddenly felt regret as well. To prevent him from canceling the wedding, I ran away on the day of the ceremony. No one expected that after I left, the man who was usually so confident and composed would search for me frantically everywhere. Through the window of our new home, I saw two familiar figures locked in a tight embrace. I slipped off my high heels. Theo Brooks had given them to me as a proposal gift. I liked them, but they were uncomfortable and had rubbed my feet raw. So now, I’d rather walk barefoot than endure the pain any longer. I dialed a familiar number. “Sis, I’m not getting married. I want to come find you.” My sister paused, “Alright, little sister. You’re always welcome here whenever you’re ready.” I choked back tears as I answered. Then I heard a sigh from her side, “I thought he was different… I didn’t expect you’d get hurt.” “Nora, don’t cry. You’re still young. There’s more to the world than love, so many beautiful things for you to discover. Whatever you decide, I’ll support you.” Until tonight, I thought Theo Brooks was different too. He was mature, steady, and always caring. He kept a respectful distance from other women. Even when busy with work, he made time for me. But tonight, at the celebration, he saw Lydia Harris, who showed up uninvited. For the first time, he lost his composure and knocked over a glass. For the first time, he exploded over something trivial and left me alone by the roadside. If Theo Brooks had seen someone else, I might have thought it was all a misunderstanding. I might have given him another chance. I would have been willing to spend another five or ten years quietly by his side. But the woman in the room was Lydia Harris. The Lydia Harris who bullied me for years, who took so much from me. The Lydia Harris I could never forgive. When I saw Theo Brooks bring Lydia Harris home, I gave up on him completely in my heart.

Yet, for some reason, I couldn’t help but check the home surveillance. On the screen, Lydia Harris was wearing my nightgown, lounging in our new house. Theo Brooks, who never did housework and always criticized me for drinking, was in the kitchen making her a hangover soup. Lydia looked up at him, “A stand-in, are you really going to marry her?” Theo didn’t reply, instead bending down to massage Lydia’s foot. “You don’t have to say it, I know you’re doing all this to upset me. The proposal party was just to make me show up.” “You can’t forget me. This room is decorated to my taste, the wedding ring is the style I like, the cake has our initials, even the shoes she’s wearing are ones I didn’t want.” With that, Lydia pressed her foot against Theo’s chest. “The one you love has always been me.” Theo remained silent. After a moment’s pause, he suddenly embraced Lydia. He poured all his love into a passionate kiss. Watching this, tears streamed down my face. I remembered our five years together, every time I wanted to kiss him, he’d find an excuse to avoid it. I thought he was just shy. I never imagined he reserved his deepest affection for Lydia. For five years, his body was with me, but his heart belonged to another woman. I took a deep breath, ready to leave. But Theo, somehow, was downstairs, calling my name. When I turned around, he instinctively let go of Lydia’s hand. “Lydia drank too much tonight. I was worried about her walking alone, so I brought her home.” “She’s considerate, worried you’d misunderstand, she insisted on leaving first.” Theo, usually a man of few words, seemed to have endless things to say about Lydia. And every word was in her defense. I looked at the man in front of me, suddenly feeling he’s a stranger. Clearly, I’m the girlfriend who has known him for years. Clearly, I’m the fiancée who’s been through so much with him. Why, in the end, did I become just a substitute? I held back my heartache, took a deep breath. “An offspring of an affair is still an affair.” Hearing my words, Theo suddenly got angry. “Nora Harris! How can you say that about Lydia? Apologize to her now!” “No wonder no one cares about you since you were little, no wonder no one likes you. Your sharp tongue makes me sick, you deserve to be unloved!” As if afraid I’d hurt Lydia, Theo pushed me aside to protect her. The soft moonlight fell on Theo’s face. That concerned look overlapped with the warm figure in my memory. Many, many years ago, when we were young. Theo would protect me like this. He said, “Nora, you’re the kindest girl. Even if everyone ignores you, I’ll love you forever and ever.” Growing up, I always kept Theo’s words close to my heart. I worked hard, wanting to create a beautiful future with him. But whenever I brought it up, he’d always brush it off with “We’ll talk about it later.” And now, Lydia Harris appeared. He didn’t even bother with excuses anymore. With “You deserve to be unloved,” he stabbed my deepest wound.

I turned my head away, unwilling to look at him. Yet my eyes reddened uncontrollably. Theo’s eyes trembled slightly. I don’t know if he realized he’d gone too far or noticed my bleeding feet. He sighed, “Tonight, I’ll pretend you were talking nonsense while drunk. From now on…” “There will be no ‘from now on’.” I spoke calmly. “What?” Theo was puzzled, wanting to ask more, but then he saw Lydia running away in tears. He could no longer care about his doubts, hastily chasing after her. He left so quickly, he didn’t notice the bracelet falling from his pocket. I picked up the bracelet, recalling the small tattoo on Lydia’s wrist. All the details I ignored connected at that moment. Childhood bonds couldn’t withstand a sudden love. Our so-called five years of love was just my wishful thinking. Given that, there’s no need to cling to an undeserving man. As I turned to head home, I received a message from my sister. She booked me a flight to leave. The timing was just half a month later, on our wedding day. The wedding countdown in the living room now became my countdown to leave. I let out a bitter laugh, discarding all new house decorations and couple items. With destiny’s will, I’ll use this last half month to bid farewell to my past.

After dawn, Theo’s call woke me up. “Nora, are you awake? I ordered your favorite breakfast. I won’t be back today, there’s an emergency at the company, let’s reschedule the wedding photos.” “Don’t worry about last night, I apologized to Lydia for you.” “Alright.” Theo didn’t expect me to agree so easily. Awkwardly, he added, “The wedding is just a formality, our relationship is so strong, we don’t need to prove anything with this, let’s keep it simple.” “Alright.” Keep it simple. This wedding had no marriage certificate, no wedding photos, no emcee, and no bride. After hanging up, I used a marker to cross off “wedding photos” on the calendar. Theo was busy with work, rarely having time for me. So I wrote down all the things I wanted to do on the calendar. I planned to fulfill all my wishes during the wedding period. Unfortunately, one by one, those wishes got covered by thick marker strokes. They became unspeakable regrets. I no longer focused on Theo. After submitting my resignation, I met up with some friends to say goodbye. In the following days, I slowly contacted my friends here, informing them that the wedding was canceled. “Actually, we all guessed…” A friend opened Theo’s social media for me to see. “During this time, Theo has been with Lydia.” “People who don’t know might think the person in his posts is you, but we recognized her immediately.” Theo, who never posted a photo of me, now had his profile filled with images of Lydia. They watched movies together, dined at restaurants, strolled in parks. His love for Lydia was blatant. Yet he blocked me from seeing it. My friend looked at me with concern. “Nora, don’t be too upset. Lydia can’t compare to you. If Theo knew her true colors, he would definitely regret it.” “Theo has been spending all his time with Lydia lately.” “People who aren’t familiar with them think it’s you in his social media posts, but we can tell otherwise.” Theo has never shared a single photo of me. Now his feed is filled with Lydia. They go to movies, dine out, and stroll in parks together. His affection for Lydia is on full display. Except, I’m the one who’s blocked out. My friend gives me a worried glance. “Nora, don’t be too upset. Lydia can’t hold a candle to you. Theo will realize his mistake once he sees her true colors.” “It’s alright. I’ve stopped caring long ago.” I gaze out at the street. In a few days, I’ll leave this place for good. I don’t have the time or energy to be heartbroken over Theo. So when Theo finally returns after being away for days, I remain indifferent. 5. Upon his return, he keeps responding to messages, barely looking around. “Why is the house so empty? Didn’t you pack?” “You said to keep it simple.” Theo falls silent, his eyes landing on the countdown showing “7.” “Time flies. Our wedding is just a week away.” I tear off two pages. “Our wedding is in five days.” These pages had wishes like “go to the beach together” and “stargaze together.” But Theo will never notice anything about me. Just then, my sister calls, and I step out to the balcony for a brief chat. When I return, Theo is still on his phone. “What’s up? I thought I heard something about a plane ticket.” “Nothing, just work stuff.” “Okay, just don’t plan a honeymoon. I’m too busy.” “I know.” Since Lydia returned, he hasn’t wanted to be apart from her for a second. Trying to ease the awkwardness, I hand Theo the bracelet. His calm eyes light up immediately. “So it was with you. I’ve been searching everywhere for it.” “I know. I saw your high-priced lost and found post online.” Ten thousand for a simple bracelet. Our entire wedding costs only five thousand. I look at Theo and suddenly ask, “Where’s your wedding ring?” He pauses, only realizing then his finger is bare. “Not sure when I lost it…” Theo tries to explain, but another message arrives on his phone. It’s Lydia’s special notification sound. He glances at it, then stands to kiss my forehead. “Sorry, babe. I’ve been so busy lately. Please take care of the wedding details.” “Once things settle, I promise to make you the happiest woman in the world.” Theo, usually so quiet, suddenly knows how to sweet-talk. In the past, I would have been moved. I’d have felt like I warmed that icy mountain. But now, I wash my face with disdain and continue my own tasks. Time slips by. Soon it’s the day before the wedding. The calendar’s wish is “have dinner together.” It’s been my biggest wish for years. But I know it will never come true. My sister won’t forgive the one who hurt me. And I won’t forgive Theo. I went to the beach myself, watching the stars by the sea. The starry sky envelops this familiar land, and all memories seem to fade with the sea breeze. Meanwhile, Lydia posts a new update. A big family dinner, everyone is there. Theo is beaming as he serves Lydia food. The caption reads, “Both families meeting, discussing final wedding details.” I don’t feel angry, just amused. Whose wedding? Mine or Lydia’s? I block and delete Lydia, trying to compose something to Theo, but I can’t send it. Just as I’m about to head home, Theo calls. “Where are you? Why aren’t you at home?” “Send me your location. I miss you.” 6 Theo arrives quickly. Once in the car, I notice a pillow on the passenger seat. I move it aside and find an opened box of condoms. Hesitating, I choose to sit in the back seat. Theo’s eyes remain glued to his phone, oblivious to my discomfort. He casually asks, “Why the beach? Is everything for the wedding done?” “Almost.” “I remember you always wanted to go to the beach. When I have time, I’ll take you for a proper trip. I didn’t mean to interrupt today, but my mom wanted to see you.” In Theo’s eyes, the wedding is solely my responsibility. He only thinks of me when he needs me. I don’t respond; my eyes sting from the wind. At the old house, only leftovers remain. Dad is chatting with Aunt Hazel. Aunt Hazel warmly takes my hand. “Nora, I really like you. You’re sensible and well-behaved.” As she says this, her eyes flicker to Lydia. “Though with Theo’s conditions, he could find someone better. But I advised him to cherish what he has.” “But you’re not young anymore. After the wedding, maybe stop working, have a child soon, and focus on taking care of Theo.” I respond perfunctorily. When I look up, Theo is already by Lydia’s side. He brings bridal and bridesmaid dresses for us to try on. “Knowing you’re busy, I let Lydia choose. She has better taste than you.” The old yellowed dress even has a tear. Meanwhile, Lydia, in a white dress, looks more like the bride. Theo seems anxious. “It must be a store mistake, nothing to do with Lydia.” “It’s too late to change. I’ll figure something out tomorrow.” “It’s fine.” I calmly want to change out of the bridal dress. But Lydia suggests taking a big group photo. She squeezes me to the side, standing next to Theo. As the shutter clicks, she nudges me. The final photo is so blurry, I can’t be recognized. Theo suggests retaking it. I smile, “Maybe another time. It’s late.” The wish for a group photo has already been crossed off my list. Lydia, with teary eyes, apologizes to me. “Sis, don’t be mad at Theo. I’ll scour the city tonight to find you a dress you’ll like.” With that, she runs out crying. Theo glares at me and chases after her. I feel bored and leave with the tattered dress. Anyway, tomorrow, everything will be over.

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On the night of the Valentine’s Day, a big scene unfolded at the entrance of our neighborhood when seven luxury cars suddenly lifted off the ground. My brother was yelling at the blown-off manhole cover, “Thanks for the rocket, bro!” The property manager shoved the security footage at me: “Which one of you threw fireworks into the septic tank causing the methane explosion? The repair cost for the Rolls Royce Cullinan is 2.8 million!” At the police station, my mom was in tears, pinching my arm, “Phoebe, just say it was you. Your brother can’t have a blemish on his record!” I glanced at the family group chat filled with messages like “A sister should protect her brother.” I suddenly burst into laughter. This time you can handle it yourself, dear brother—Logan “the Ground King.” 0 My brother Logan, known online as “Logan the Ground King,” is a minor TikTok streamer, often performing awkward antics. He couldn’t have picked a worse day—on Valentine’s Day, he managed to blow up a manhole cover. That’s real talent. “Thanks to our top supporter for the rocket! Thanks, everyone!” His altered voice, sounding like a raspy duck, was giving me a headache through the phone. The camera focused on the dark manhole cover, while colorful comments filled the screen. “Wow, thrilling!” “This city knows how to play; even manhole covers can explode!” “Why isn’t the streamer showing his face this time? Is it really him?” “Folks, today we’re challenging ourselves to blow up a manhole cover! Thanks for the support! Double tap, mwah!” His irritating altered voice came through the phone, making me want to reach through the internet and slap him. In the live stream, I saw him light a string of firecrackers and toss them into the manhole. The comments section erupted. Before I could react, the screen shook violently, followed by a loud “boom.” A flash of white light filled the screen before it returned to normal. In the camera, the manhole cover was gone, replaced by a deep, dark hole. A few brightly colored sports cars suddenly appeared in the frame. The nearest Cullinan had half a firecracker stuck on its starry roof, still smoking. Another flashy Lamborghini had some yellow, unidentified object dangling from its undercarriage, fluttering in the wind. The comments exploded. “Cullinan owner: Thanks a lot!” “Lamborghini: What did I do to deserve this?” Seeing the familiar car logos on the screen, my hand shook, nearly dropping the phone. Were those Mr. Wang and Mr. Li’s cars? And my recently acquired Cullinan client’s car? The phone rang incessantly, displaying “Manager.” I took a deep breath, trying to keep my voice calm: “Manager, happy holidays” “happy holidays my foot! Phoebe! Look at what your wonderful brother did!” “There are seven supercars at the community entrance! All of them got blown up! The Cullinan’s starry roof is gone! Your client’s cars! They’re all your responsibility!” “I… I know, Manager, I’m dealing with it now.” I hung up, my hands shaking. Seven supercars, all my clients, and all with full damage coverage? My mind buzzed, filled with emptiness. My work group chat had over 99+ notifications already. My boss’s voice was cold: “Initial estimate, six million in losses! All have full damage coverage! Phoebe, tell me, who will pay for this?” At this point, the family group chat was in an uproar. My parents’ calls were incessant, so I took a cab home. Upon opening the door, everyone in the family was waiting in the living room. The atmosphere was as heavy as a memorial service. 0

My parents sat in the center of the sofa. My brother Logan stood beside them with his head down, looking like a wilted eggplant. My Aunt Lydia was sitting next to them, vividly recounting something to my mom. When she saw me enter, she immediately switched to a “devastated” expression. “Phoebe, you’re finally back!” Aunt Lydia rushed over first, grabbing my hand with tears in her eyes. My mom joined in, looking distressed: “Phoebe, be honest with your mom. Was this your doing?” Was it me? I quickly realized they wanted me to take the blame again. At 12, Logan set the community’s electric meter box on fire, and my parents had me take the blame, apologize, and get scolded. At 15, Logan threw his classmate’s backpack into water, ruining the latest tablet inside, and I got blamed for not teaching my brother properly. At 17, Logan acted up during a hot pot meal, pouring a whole bottle of industrial alcohol, almost causing a manslaughter case, and my parents made me pull strings and spend a fortune to settle it. I’ve always been Logan’s personal scapegoat, on call 24/7, dealing with emergencies at my own expense. But this time, I didn’t want to be their blood bank anymore. “Mom, what did I do?” I feigned confusion. My dad coughed heavily, pointing at a piece of paper on the coffee table. It was a notice from the police station. “Look for yourself! The police called, saying they need our cooperation for an investigation! The surveillance footage clearly shows someone throwing firecrackers into the manhole!” “Dad, did the footage show who threw it?” I deliberately asked. My mom, realizing I didn’t want to admit to this black pot, immediately cried harder. “Phoebe, your brother needs to take the civil service exam! If he has a criminal record, his life is over!” Aunt Lydia chimed in, “Yes, Phoebe, you’re the older sister, always so mature. Help your brother this time.” “Help him?” I raised an eyebrow, “How?” My parents exchanged a glance. My mom cleared her throat and started babbling: “You see, Logan didn’t show his face. The footage is dark; no one can tell who it is.” “Besides, you’re the sister. Isn’t it your duty to cover for your brother?” My mom said, giving me a look. I almost laughed out loud. This familiar manipulative talk, I’ve heard it all my life, and it’s still the same old song. “Mom, you mean go to the police station and admit it was me who blew up the manhole?” My parents nodded vigorously, and Aunt Lydia chimed in, “Phoebe, just say you were messing around. Young people make mistakes, right? Be polite, and maybe the police will go easy on you.” “Besides, once your brother becomes a civil servant, he’ll be part of the state, unlike you who work a regular job. You need to understand what’s best for our family.” My dad frowned at me. “Exactly, just say it was you. You don’t need to take the civil service exam anyway.” My mom quickly added. Looking at them, a chill ran through my heart. “And what about the repair costs? 2.8 million for the Cullinan, plus the other supercars, it’s over six million, right? Who’s paying?” I asked calmly. My mom hesitated, stammering: “Well… well… doesn’t insurance cover it?” Aunt Lydia’s eyes lit up, scooting over, “Yes, Phoebe, don’t you work at an insurance company? You’re a claims adjuster; you must have a way. Just help out, pull some strings, and have the insurance company cover it.” I couldn’t believe my ears. They wanted me to abuse my position to commit insurance fraud? “Aunt Lydia, what are you saying? Insurance claims follow a process. It’s not up to me to decide. This is clearly human-caused damage. The insurance company won’t cover it.” I said coldly. “Why can’t they cover it? You’re a claims adjuster. Can’t you handle this little thing?” Aunt Lydia looked incredulous. “Yeah, Phoebe, you’re the most accomplished in our family, and you won’t even help with this?” My mom started piling on the guilt. Looking at them, it was both laughable and pathetic. “You want me to take the blame and also fake claims to defraud the insurance company? You really think highly of me.” I retorted sarcastically. “Anyway, the situation is already out. What’s one more blame? If you end up in jail, your brother, once he’s a civil servant, can help you out.” Aunt Lydia said, trying to mediate. “Phoebe, didn’t I buy your brother an accident insurance policy before? He got injured yesterday. You can also have the insurance company pay thirty or fifty thousand for his recovery.” I looked at them coldly, saying nothing, feeling utterly disheartened. 0

Seeing the hard approach wasn’t working, my mom switched to a softer tactic. She took out a bank card, where I’d deposited almost 80% of my salary in the “family account.” My mom actually said my brother planned to use this money to buy me an apartment, hoping I’d be grateful enough to take the blame for Logan? I picked up my phone, walked over to the credit card machine, “Insufficient balance.” I frowned, checking the transaction details, seeing a long list of expenses on the screen. Luxury boutiques, fine dining, bars, karaoke, game top-ups… Thirty-eight thousand, already spent. I wanted to slam the door and never return to this home again. But today, if I didn’t admit to this, it seemed I wouldn’t be able to leave. I came up with a plan. “You want me to take the blame? Fine.” I suddenly laughed, tears almost coming out. “After all, I’m just a useless daughter. Our family is still counting on my brother to bring glory to the family name. For our family’s legacy, I admit it!” I pretended to be tearful, the more broken I appeared, the more easily they’d fall for it. My mom and Aunt Lydia exchanged a satisfied look, thinking they had me where they wanted. “That’s right, we’re family. It’s good you understand.” But today, if I don’t take responsibility for this, it seems I won’t be able to leave the house. A plan started to form in my mind. “You want me to take the blame? Fine.” I suddenly laughed, tears almost spilling over. “After all, I’m just the useless daughter. Our Logan family is still waiting for my brother to bring honor to the family. For the sake of the Logan lineage, I’ll admit it!” I deliberately acted more desperate, knowing the more I played the part, the more likely they were to believe me. My mom and Aunt Lydia exchanged a glance, satisfied smiles on their faces, thinking they had me cornered. “That’s the spirit, we’re family after all. It’s good you understand.” “But, Mom, Aunt Lydia, I’ll take the blame, but I need to know the full story: what explosives were used, and… why did Logan blow up the manhole cover?” I asked, fixing them with a piercing gaze. “Well, it’s nothing much. Logan, that kid, wasn’t he live-streaming, trying to add some excitement? He wanted some explosive effects to attract followers,” Aunt Lydia finally confessed, though she downplayed the situation. Then my mom reluctantly recounted the sequence of events. Just as I suspected, Logan had planned a “Valentine’s Day Extravaganza” for his TikTok stream to draw attention. He bought some fireworks, not realizing there was a septic tank under the manhole cover. “Mom, you’d better be honest with me. Whether I can ‘successfully’ take the blame and ‘pull strings’ with the insurance company depends on it.” I emphasized “take the blame” and “pull strings” to make sure they knew I was “playing the role.” “Alright, actually… it was a little ‘homemade bomb,’ like those kids play with during the New Year, just with a bit more power.” I didn’t plan to probe any further; I already had the gist. Next, I needed to get the explosives report to see what they really used. The next day, I excused myself, saying I needed to check the “details” of the insurance claim, and returned to work. When I saw the words “nitroglycerin” and “glycerin,” I couldn’t help but smirk. Logan, that kid, really had nerve. To become an internet celeb, he dared to possess and use explosives. This wasn’t just a simple public safety matter anymore; it might escalate to a criminal issue. Back home, I acted nonchalant, continuing the charade with them. Logan was in the living room, live-streaming with his “top fan sis,” oblivious to my little actions. I discreetly unlocked his phone, opened the PayPal account, and began reviewing recent transactions. Logan, that kid, bought so many highly dangerous fireworks. What infuriated me was he used my account to buy these dangerous goods, clearly trying to drag me down with him, making me the fall guy. It was clear Logan had planned everything: from buying explosives, orchestrating the stream, to shifting the blame afterward—every step meticulously calculated. Such a schemer! Since that’s the case, there’s no need for me to be polite anymore. “Logan, you brought this on yourself,” I thought coldly to myself.

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I had just been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease when I forgot to pick up my son from kindergarten again. When Tommy got home, he angrily threw his backpack at me: “What’s wrong with you?! You’re nowhere near as good as Aunt Rachel!” Ethan also looked at me with disdain: “Are you becoming senile? Go wash my underwear!” As days went by, my memory got worse and worse. On my birthday, my husband and son were celebrating with his first love. I turned to go home but couldn’t remember the way. I got on a bus, heading to the only address left in my mind. Later, someone called me: “Samantha, are you done with this drama? Now you’ve even run away from home?” I frowned at the vaguely familiar yet strange voice: “Who are you?” Three months ago, I noticed my memory was getting worse, and I often became forgetful. After a hospital examination, I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. I couldn’t believe it and repeatedly asked the doctor if this was really my diagnosis. I was only twenty-six years old. Ethan and I were college classmates. We got married after an unexpected pregnancy after graduation. Now our son is three years old. The doctor advised me to inform my family immediately and come to the hospital together to discuss the treatment plan. This disease requires a lot of help and care from family members. I opened Ethan’s contact in my phone, hesitating. Today was the day Rachel returned to the country. Ethan called me first: “I have a business dinner tonight. You go pick up our son.” Before I could respond, he hung up. I stared at the darkened screen and smiled bitterly. After some thought, I decided to tell my mom. “Al… what? I’ve never heard of this disease. Are you sure the doctor isn’t trying to scam you?” “How much does it cost to treat this? I don’t have money right now. Your brother is getting married soon.” The sharp voice from the other end of the line made my temples throb. I brushed her off with a few words and hung up. Making this call was indeed unnecessary. I looked up at the doctor across from me: “Doctor, you can just tell me the treatment plan. I can take care of myself.” Not wanting the doctor to see my embarrassment, I quickly left the hospital with the treatment plan in hand. On my way home, I felt like there was something I needed to do, but I just couldn’t remember what it was. When I reached the entrance of our community, I saw Ethan standing under a streetlight. I was delighted, thinking he was waiting for me, and was about to approach him. A girl in a pink dress bounced over to him and gave him a hug. Ethan, usually cold and aloof, now had a gentle smile on his lips. He ruffled the girl’s hair, put his arm around her shoulder, and they drove away together. At home, I sat in the dark living room without turning on the lights. My mind was filled with the scene I had just witnessed. After who knows how long, I heard a sound from the entrance. My son rushed to me and threw his backpack at me: “Mom! Why didn’t you come to pick me up?! The teacher called you but you didn’t answer!” “You’re nowhere near as good as Aunt Rachel!” I picked up my phone and realized it had died. I tried to comfort him softly: “Tommy, I’m sorry. Mommy forgot…” Ethan came in shortly after, his face full of anger. He walked over and said: “Didn’t I tell you to pick up our son?!” “He waited at the kindergarten until he was the last one left. He cried so much even the teacher couldn’t bear it!” “You’re a stay-at-home mom now, enjoying an easy life without having to work. Can’t you even handle this simple task of picking up our son?!” I opened my mouth, wanting to explain. I forgot because I’m sick. But looking at the two nearly identical faces in front of me, both scolding me, I swallowed my explanation and grievances.

I didn’t expect Rachel to come find me so soon. She asked to meet me at a coffee shop but arrived nearly half an hour late. Rachel sat down across from me. Her face was actually a thorn in my heart. On Ethan’s computer, there was a folder named “first love”. It was full of her photos. When I accidentally opened it, Ethan acted nonchalant, saying he kept these just to reminisce about his youthful self, not because of her. Looking at Rachel up close, her makeup was exquisite, her smile sweet. As for me, though we were about the same age, I looked much older. I rarely put on makeup or dressed up after marriage, and my complexion wasn’t good. “Samantha, long time no see!” She spoke first with a bright smile, her eyes curved like a cunning fox. I always felt inferior in front of Rachel. She was my half-sister, sharing the same father but different mothers. The first time I met Rachel was on my eighth birthday. My mom rarely took me to fancy restaurants, but she did that year to celebrate. Knowing how hard it was for my mom to earn money, I only dared to order the cheapest items on the menu. At the table next to us, another family was also celebrating a birthday. A girl in a beautiful puffy dress wore a birthday crown, smiling happily. As for me, my clothes were wrinkled with visible mending patches. I lowered my head, but then I heard a familiar voice. The man with his back to me turned sideways, and I realized it was my dad. He was smiling and singing happy birthday to that girl. The fatherly love that seemed so out of reach for me was all given to Rachel. She was beautiful and had many admirers at school, but she turned them all down. Until she started dating Ethan, an upperclassman. Everyone said they were a perfect match. I was always the ugly duckling, the most inconspicuous existence in the crowd. That year, Rachel suddenly went abroad and broke up with Ethan. He tried desperately to keep her, but couldn’t. In college, I deliberately imitated Rachel’s style and preferences to get close to Ethan. My intentions were obvious, and after persistent pursuit, he chose me. So, I always felt that I had stolen Ethan. Now the rightful owner had returned. I took a sip of the floral tea in front of me and spoke softly: “It has been a long time. Did you ask me out today for something specific?” “Nothing special, just catching up.” “I saw Tommy yesterday. He’s very cute, looks a lot like Ethan.” “They were quite upset yesterday… I told them not to give you a hard time when they got home.” Her tone was polite, but there was an unmistakable hint of acting like the lady of the house. I looked up at her and smiled: “My husband and son certainly won’t give me a hard time.” I emphasized the word “my”, smiling brightly. Only I knew that my heart was already panicking because of her, my nails almost digging into my palms.

After delivering lunch to my son, I passed by Ethan’s company and had a sudden urge to go up and see him. Ethan had grown his small studio into a listed company that now occupied an entire office building. I had witnessed every step of his journey. Carrying some afternoon tea, I had just stepped out of the elevator when the receptionist greeted me with a smile: “Mrs. Shen, it’s been a while since you last visited!” I smiled faintly and nodded at her, then walked inside. Ethan was in a meeting, so I sat outside waiting for him. “Samantha!” I looked up, startled to see Rachel. What was she doing here? “I got bored, so I came to work for Ethan,” she said. I glanced at the name tag on her chest: ‘Executive Assistant’. “Let me get you some tea. The weather’s getting cold.” Rachel brought out a cup of tea from the pantry. Just as she was about to place it in front of me, someone rushing by bumped into her. She lost her balance and fell to the ground, shattering the teacup. Her palm was deeply cut, blood spilling onto the floor. I crouched down, wanting to check her injury. Ethan saw the injured Rachel through the glass of the conference room. He dropped the documents in his hand and pushed open the door. He shoved me aside and pulled Rachel into his arms. I fell to the ground, staring at him in shock. He turned his head to look at me, frowning: “What’s wrong with you?!” “Rachel and I are old classmates. She just came to help me at the company.” “Can’t you keep your female jealousy out of my company?!” Rachel, in pain from the shard in her palm, cried out but still said softly to Ethan: “It’s not Samantha’s fault… I was just careless…” Ethan glared at me, then carried Rachel out, full of concern. I sat on the floor, watching his back, rubbing my bruised arm, trying hard to suppress the rising bitterness. An alarm reminded me it was time to pick up my son from kindergarten. Since the last incident, I had set reminders for everything. Standing at the kindergarten gate, I looked around. My son walked up to me, looking deflated. I gently stroked his head: “What’s wrong, son? Did something unpleasant happen today?” He looked up at me, his eyes as cold as Ethan’s: “Mom, can’t you dress up a bit?” “Like Aunt Rachel.” “Look at other kids’ moms. I feel so embarrassed with you like this!” I looked down at my yellowing white down jacket and worn-out canvas shoes. My expression stiffened, and I forced a laugh: “Okay, okay. Mommy will dress up nicely to pick you up tomorrow.”

When Ethan came home, I was in the bathroom hand-washing his and our son’s underwear. He walked into the bathroom, threw a pair of underwear he had just taken off into my basin, and went into the shower. Without saying a word. I looked up at myself in the mirror, sallow and thin, with dark circles under my eyes. No wonder our son was embarrassed by me, and my husband was protecting his first love. While Ethan was showering, I opened the wardrobe and found the black lace lingerie I had bought years ago in the corner. Ethan and I hadn’t been intimate for a long time. I put it on and stood in front of the mirror, feeling a bit awkward, then quickly covered it with a bathrobe. I lay on my side on the bed, facing away from the bathroom door. Hearing the water stop, Ethan opened the door and walked out. I unconsciously gripped the bedsheet tightly. Ethan got into bed on the other side. I could smell his shower gel. I turned to look at him. He had his hands crossed on his chest, eyes already closed. I took off my bathrobe and pulled Ethan’s hand to my chest. He half-opened his eyes, glanced at me, and pulled his hand away: “I’m a bit tired today. Not in the mood.” I froze. His cold attitude made my attempt at seduction seem so ridiculous. I said nothing, turning over noisily to show my dissatisfaction. Ethan, perhaps feeling his behavior was a bit excessive, suddenly hugged me from behind and kissed my hair: “Honey, I didn’t mean anything by it… I really am tired today.” “Rachel told me today that it was another colleague who bumped into her.” “I misunderstood you, honey. I’m sorry…” “Next week is your birthday. How about I take you to the Sky Restaurant to celebrate? Our son has been wanting to go there too.” After a long silence, I finally mumbled in his arms: “Okay.” Hearing my agreement, he let go of me. Soon, I heard his steady breathing. I comforted myself. It’s okay. Anyway, my memory is bad now. I’ll soon forget these grievances.

On the day of my birthday, after sending our son to kindergarten in the morning, I specially booked a makeup artist, wanting to dress up nicely for the evening date. The makeup artist worked on my face for over an hour. Looking in the mirror, I seemed like a completely different person. The life of a housewife had long been seasoned with the flavors of daily chores, making me forget what it was like to wear makeup. From day to night, I hardly did anything. I just stood by the window, eagerly anticipating Ethan’s car. But the clock on the wall was approaching 9 PM, and Ethan still hadn’t returned. The calls I made and messages I sent to him went unanswered. An hour ago, I had asked the company receptionist, who said Ethan had left work after 6 PM. Why hasn’t he come home yet? I opened SnapChat, habitually clicking on the new updates notification. The first update was from Rachel, posted 10 minutes ago. [Being loved really can make you feel like a little girl again. Another year older!] The photo showed Rachel in a princess dress, holding a birthday cake. Behind her was the night view from the rooftop restaurant. I immediately recognized the reflection in the glass of the photo. Sitting across from her were my husband and my son. My hand holding the phone trembled involuntarily. So while I was eagerly anticipating, they were celebrating Rachel’s birthday. I rushed out the door, stood by the roadside, anxiously waving at the passing cars, watching the traffic flow. All the taxis that passed by were full. Finally, I managed to hail one. I urged the driver to go faster and faster. The driver lazily glanced at me through the rearview mirror: “Going on a date, young lady?” I met his eyes in the mirror: “Going to catch a cheater.” The next second, I clearly felt the car speed up. Getting out of the car, I ran into the Sky Restaurant, straight up to the 58th floor. Standing in front of the glass door, I was still panting heavily. Ethan had booked the entire place for Rachel. The huge restaurant had only the three of them. Every corner was carefully decorated, full of jasmine flowers, Rachel’s favorite. My husband was feeding cut steak to another woman. My son was taking photos of them with his phone. Anyone who saw this would exclaim, what a happy family of three. Looking at the scene before me, I trembled with cold all over, as if I had fallen into an ice pit. I felt like a third party, peeking at someone else’s happiness. Their every move was like a needle stabbing into my heart, making it hard to breathe. My legs were nailed to the spot, lacking the courage to step forward. I don’t know how I left the restaurant. I walked on the street, with horns occasionally telling me to move to the side. Suddenly, a speeding motorcycle brushed past me, almost hitting me. The rider even turned back and cursed at me. I crouched by the roadside, not knowing where to go. When my legs went numb from crouching, I stood up, feeling dizzy. I rubbed my aching temples and looked at the street in front of me, suddenly feeling unfamiliar. I opened the map app, wanting to take a taxi home, but my finger paused on the destination field. Where is home? I tried to search for the address in my mind. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t remember. There was only one address in my mind. I tried entering it. It turned out to be 500 kilometers away from here. I booked a bus ticket departing in thirty minutes.

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