Category: English

The day I miscarried, some girl called him, cooing into the phone, “Honey, I got my period, and my cramps are killing me.” He turned to me and said, “I gotta step out for a bit. You’ll be fine if you just get some sleep.” I never imagined this man wasn’t just a cheat, but that he’d planned everything to screw me over. God, I hate that I was so blind. 1. It hurt so much. After the anesthesia wore off, my abdomen felt like it had been smashed with a sledgehammer. I leaned weakly against the pillow, tears streaming down my face as I looked at Ethan. “Stay with me, please?” He grabbed his jacket, heading for the door, his tone final. “Got something to do. Can’t stay.” I bit my lip, trying to phrase it delicately. “What is it? Something to do with her?” He paused at the door, glanced back at me sideways, a smirk darker than the night sky playing on his lips. “Yeah, exactly. Something to do with her. Ava, you couldn’t even keep the baby. What makes you think you can keep me?” I closed my eyes, a roaring filling my ears. Ethan Cole, I swear I’ll make you pay for this. … An hour later, my best friend, Chloe, showed up in my hospital room. “Ava, I hired those guys for you, they’re waiting outside the hospital, but—” “Are you sure you want to go through with this?” I nodded, trying to reassure her. “Don’t worry. The place they usually meet up is pretty secluded. Getting inside will be easy.” I’d known for a while that Ethan had someone else. Our relationship crumbled under the strain of me constantly asking who she was. I hated him for cheating; he hated me for making waves. I couldn’t let this go. Not today. Gritting my teeth against the intense pain, I got out of bed. Chloe helped me leave the hospital. I wanted to surprise Ethan. But honestly, when he opened the door, he looked a lot calmer than I expected. “What are you doing here?” His tone was flat as if he didn’t care that I’d found his secret spot. I ignored him and pushed past into the living room. A woman was lounging on the sofa, wearing a fluffy pajama set. Her eyes were soft, and she held a bowl – probably some kind of comfort food he used to make for me when I had cramps. “Get out.” Ethan grabbed my arm, trying to pull me towards the door. I yelled his name, loud. That was the signal. The guys I’d hired, waiting outside, rushed in immediately. Ethan froze for a second, then sneered. “You hired people? You trying to get arrested?” I looked at him innocently, speaking softly. “Wrong guess…” Just as I finished speaking, the twenty-odd guys instantly pulled out their phones. They captured Ethan grabbing my collar, then rushed into the living room, recording the woman on the sofa. “Ahhh! What are you doing?” the woman screamed. “Stop filming! Stop! Ethan, help me!” Ethan tried to shield her, but some of the guys blocked him. He couldn’t get past them, so he turned his fury on me. I didn’t even have time to react before he shoved me hard. My stomach slammed violently against the corner of a table. I let out a choked gasp, clutching my abdomen as I crumpled to the floor. Something warm trickled down my leg, pooling on the ground. Everyone froze. Ethan seemed to snap back to reality. He looked at me, took a deep breath, and asked, “Ava, what the hell do you want?” A faint smile spread across my pale face. “Ethan, I’m making you famous.” 2 After leaving Ethan’s place, I couldn’t hold it in anymore. I collapsed into Chloe’s arms and just sobbed. Chloe rubbed my back, comforting me. “Go ahead and cry. It’s good to let it out.” Through my sniffles, I asked the main guy I’d hired, who was standing nearby, “Did you get the part where he pushed me?” He was a guy in his forties, looked like he’d seen a thing or two. Probably never this kind of drama, though. Still, he was professional. He patted his chest and assured me, “Don’t worry, Miss. Got it all right here on video.” Good. Then the pain wasn’t for nothing. Chloe sighed, looking like she wanted to say something more, but in the end, just said, “Leave the rest to me. The most important thing for you right now is to rest and recover.” Women really are the reliable ones. I managed a watery smile, then closed my eyes gratefully as Chloe gently wiped my face with a tissue, muttering something about mascara. Back in the hospital, I lay in bed. A male doctor walked in. He was young, handsome, with a sunny vibe. “Ms. Evans? Hi, I’m Liam Carter. I’m a friend of your friend.” I managed a weak smile. Chloe must have arranged this, but I wasn’t really in the mood. I let him examine me, answering his questions vaguely until my phone buzzed. It was Ethan. The nerve of him to call. A cold smile touched my lips as I answered. “Ava, do you really think posting a few things online is going to hurt me?” So, Chloe had already made her move. I replied calmly, “What are you talking about? You’re my husband. Why would I want to hurt you? I just thought—” “People might like to see a different side of the great Ethan Cole.” Ethan snorted. “Have you thought about yourself in all this? You think a few videos will make me public enemy number one? Ava, don’t be naive. Public opinion can be easily managed.” I knew it wouldn’t be completely one-sided, but hearing him underestimate me like this was almost funny. “Don’t you worry about me taking you down with me. You should probably worry about your own company.” This mess would definitely impact his business, at least somewhat. And I wasn’t worried about the posts being taken down quickly. Because Chloe worked in PR. She knew the game. Hearing me say that, the man on the other end went silent. After a moment, his voice was low. “How are you feeling?” I burst out laughing like I’d just heard the world’s funniest joke. His threats hadn’t bothered me much, but hearing those words now? It just made me sick to my stomach. Just as I was about to say something sarcastic, Liam, who had been quiet until now, suddenly asked, “Ms. Evans, does it hurt when I press here?” Ethan immediately sounded suspicious. “Who’s there with you?” I smiled at the doctor’s young, fresh face and replied, “Who else would it be? Obviously—” “My new boyfriend.” 3 Ethan’s possessiveness was off the charts, bordering on pathological. When we were dating, he wouldn’t let me hang out with any other guys, not even my own cousin. Back then, I was completely smitten, treated his words like gospel, so naturally, I obeyed. After we got married, he still had his rules, plenty of them. But apparently, the rules only applied to me. He could do whatever he wanted. At first, I never thought he’d cheat. Our love story felt too perfect; it completely blinded me. I met him, married him during what should have been the best years of my life, only to find out later that he had someone he could never forget – the one that got away. Not the woman he was cheating with, obviously. Who it was didn’t matter. What mattered was that he couldn’t have her. A man with unsatisfied desires, coupled with power and status… cheating was probably the least of his offenses. But none of that gave him the right to hurt me. Since I couldn’t be his ‘one that got away,’ I’d just let someone else be mine. Ethan had already hung up. I could only imagine how pissed he was, but I didn’t care. I took Liam’s hand, smiling sweetly. “How old are you?” Liam clearly wasn’t expecting me to be so forward. His face and ears turned red. He stammered, “T-twenty-six.” Definitely younger. My smile widened. “Oh, Ms. Evans,” Liam quickly changed the subject. “You mentioned trending online earlier… actually…” “The comments aren’t very kind to you.” I shifted slightly. “Oh? What are they saying?” The young doctor looked uncomfortable but spilled it out under my encouraging gaze. “They’re saying maybe you deserved it, that a powerful guy like Mr. Cole wouldn’t hit a woman unless she did something to provoke him?” Classic victim-blaming. I chuckled. “And what do you think?” Liam seemed surprised by the question. He thought for a moment, then answered seriously, “I don’t think what those commenters say matters. What’s important now is how you keep the momentum going, keep the pressure on him. Of course, you can’t just let it stay trending constantly, or it might attract official attention, investigations. The best strategy might be to pop back into the headlines every few days, keep people engaged.” I raised an eyebrow. “Hmm, you know a lot about this.” Liam scratched his head sheepishly, grinning. “I used to be interested in PR stuff.” I nodded. He had a point, but managing the online buzz wasn’t my problem. Chloe was a master at this. As they say, with a best friend like that, who needs an army? I settled back into the pillows. “You can go now. I think I need to sleep.” Liam agreed. Before leaving, he carefully tucked my feet under the blanket and adjusted the thermostat, making it warmer. I drifted off, feeling a bit more at peace. Dimly, I heard some noises. Then, a familiar voice whispered near my ear. “Happy now, baby?”

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My daughter pointed to a photo on Instagram and asked me, “Mommy, why is Daddy kissing Uncle Leo?” I didn’t think much of it, figuring it was just a behind-the-scenes pic from Ethan’s new movie. He’d told me he was shooting a film with an LGBTQ+ storyline. But the next day, I saw the footage from the security camera in our bedroom. Ethan and that man were passionately kissing on my bed, our wedding photo hanging on the wall behind them. And that man… was wearing my pajamas. 1 “Mommy, why is Daddy kissing Uncle Leo?” My daughter, Lily, looked up at me, her face a picture of innocence, pointing at a photo on her tablet. I was just plating the last dish for dinner and glanced over. It was a picture of Ethan kissing another man. The headline screamed: “Paparazzi Catch A-List Actor Ethan Cheating with Young Heartthrob!” I brushed it off. Tabloids these days have no shame. Ethan was currently filming an indie gay romance, and the man he was kissing was his co-star, Leo. Leo and Ethan had been best friends for years. When I was in labor with Lily, Ethan was out of town and couldn’t make it back, so Leo was the one who stayed with me at the hospital. That’s why Lily called him Uncle Leo and saw him as her godfather. So, I stroked my daughter’s hair. “Because Daddy needs to earn money to take care of Lily. This is just work for him and Uncle Leo. You can’t believe those nasty things people write to hurt them, okay?” Lily nodded vigorously. “I know, Mommy! I won’t believe those bad people.” “Mommy, when is Daddy coming home? The cake can’t wait much longer to be eaten by me!” “You little rascal,” I said, gently pinching her chubby cheek. “Daddy said he’ll be home right after work to celebrate Lily’s birthday. Can Lily wait just a little bit longer?” Ethan’s current film set was close to home. We’d agreed yesterday that he’d come back with Leo after shooting wrapped to celebrate Lily’s birthday. However, the minutes ticked by, and the food grew cold, but Ethan still hadn’t returned. The third time I called him, the phone finally picked up. A low, husky voice came through. “Eleanor? They added a last-minute night shoot. Ethan’s probably going to be tied up all night.” It was Leo. I felt a little uneasy. Ethan never let anyone touch his phone. Once, when he was in the shower, I answered a call for him. He blew up at me—the only time he’d ever really yelled—and we had a huge fight. After that, he never let his phone out of his sight, not even when he went to the bathroom. But he never seemed to mind Leo using his phone. Still, I couldn’t really say anything to Leo, so I just said, “Okay, well, please remind him he promised to take Lily to the amusement park tomorrow.” After hanging up, I put the birthday hat on Lily’s head, coaxing her disappointed little face back into a smile. Ethan didn’t come home that night. It wasn’t until the next morning that he dragged himself through the door, looking utterly exhausted. I knew filming was tough, so I didn’t mention him missing the party. I just ran him a hot bath and heated up breakfast. “Ethan, you must be exhausted. Go take a hot shower, have some breakfast. You can take Lily out later.” Ethan rested his head on my shoulder and took a deep breath. “Ellie, what would I do without you?” “Oh, stop it,” I said, smiling and patting his head. “Go get cleaned up.” “Alright,” Ethan mumbled, shuffling tiredly towards the bathroom, stripping off his clothes as he went. I sighed, resigned, and bent down to pick them up. That’s when I glanced up and, by chance, saw it: a bright red bite mark on his bare inner thigh. 2 By the time Ethan finished his shower, the oatmeal was ready. I brought out the sandwiches and oatmeal and casually asked, “Why the sudden night shoot yesterday? Didn’t you say you’d already talked to the director about finishing early?” “It’s all that idiot Leo’s fault. He messed up a simple water scene like twenty times. I had to stay late with him because of it.” “If it weren’t for our history, I wouldn’t even bother with him. Ellie, you have no idea, I was running lines with him all night, barely got any sleep. I feel like death!” Ethan was practically radiating frustration. He and Leo had signed with the same agency and debuted around the same time, slogging it out in showbiz for over a decade. It was just that Leo wasn’t as talented. After more than ten years in the business, he was still a D-list actor, barely on anyone’s radar. Ethan, on the other hand, was already a multiple award-winning A-lister. He’d taken this gay romance film partly to tap into market trends and partly to give Leo a leg up, hoping to boost his popularity. Ethan really was exceptionally good to Leo. Just like now. Even though he was complaining, there was an undercurrent of helpless fondness in his voice. I used to think Ethan just saw Leo as a younger brother, but now… I pushed down the swirling thoughts in my mind and smiled, trying to soothe him. “Alright, alright. He’s been your friend for so many years. Don’t be too hard on him.” “Hmph. For your sake, Ellie, I’ll forgive him this time.” I looked at the untouched sandwich in front of him and the nearly empty bowl of oatmeal, feeling a little quiet. Ethan wasn’t usually a big fan of oatmeal, but today he was acting completely out of character. I smiled. “Is my cooking extra good today? Looks like you’re about to finish all the oatmeal.” Ethan looked at me earnestly. “Ellie, your cooking gets better every single day. This oatmeal is heavenly.” I paused, a warmth spreading through my chest. I silently cursed myself for being so soft. After all these years, his words could still move me. Ethan looked at me, his face slightly flushed, just like the day he proposed. When I met Ethan seven years ago, he wasn’t an A-list actor yet, just a little-known performer. We didn’t have some dramatic, rollercoaster love story, no earth-shattering vows of eternal love. We met on a blind date set up by mutual friends. Everything just flowed naturally, falling into place. On our first anniversary, he showed up with a bouquet of roses. “Eleanor, will you walk with me through all of life’s seasons, for a lifetime?” After we got married, Ethan was gentle and considerate. We had our lovely daughter. Even if he often… had trouble performing in some areas and needed medication, the good far outweighed the bad. He was a good husband. No matter how busy he was, he never forgot a single holiday. Even if he was out of town, he’d send a gift and a loving message. He even converted all his earnings into gold bars, locked in a safe at home, and gave me the key. This was his way of giving me security, and I never once doubted he would betray me. 3 I reached out to touch his face and felt how hot it was. “You’re burning up!” Ethan blinked. “Am I?” “How can you not even know you have a fever? And you went and took a shower.” I was about to rush him to the hospital, but he stopped me. “It’s nothing serious. I’ll just take a fever reducer and sweat it out. But Lily… I promised to take her to the amusement park today.” “But you can’t take her out when you have a fever.” “How about this, Ellie? You take her first. If my fever breaks, I’ll meet you guys there. I already missed her birthday last night. I don’t want to disappoint her again.” “Please, Ellie?” Ethan put his hands together, looking at me with puppy-dog eyes, just like Lily did. I caved and nodded. Ethan happily kissed me. I playfully pushed him away. “Careful, you’ll make me sick.” When Lily found out Daddy was bailing on her again, her lip pouted so much you could hang a bottle on it. But once we got to the amusement park, she forgot all about it. The little tyke was bursting with energy. Chasing her around on this crisp October day had me breaking a sweat. I was worried about Ethan. He hadn’t answered two of my calls, so I opened the home security camera app on my phone to check on him. What I saw sent a chill straight through me, like I’d been plunged into an ice cave. In my bedroom, Ethan was pinned underneath Leo, who was kissing and biting him. Our wedding photo hung on the wall. And Leo… was wearing my pajamas. My hands trembled as I fumbled for my earbuds, jabbing the connector into my phone several times before it finally went in. I heard Ethan’s broken moans. “Don’t… not here. What if Ellie… comes back and sees?” “Eleanor took Lily out. They won’t be back anytime soon.” “Ethan, baby, they say it’s even better when you have a fever. Don’t you want to try?” “Mmm… uh… okay, but be quick.” 4 It was a bright, sunny day, but I felt like I was trapped in the dead of winter. I stood there, taking a couple of deep breaths to calm myself. Then, without hesitation, I dropped Lily off at my parents’ place and sped home, pushing the speed limit. But the scene at home wasn’t quite what I’d imagined. Ethan was lying in bed, looking weak, while Leo, fully dressed, sat on the sofa nearby, playing on his phone. When he saw me, he immediately stood up. “Eleanor, you’re back.” Ethan also looked at me, confused. “Ellie, why are you back so early?” “Lily got tired.” “Oh, Leo’s here? Why didn’t you call ahead?” I smiled at Leo. “I heard Ethan was sick, so I came to see him. After all, if it wasn’t for being up all night running lines with me, he probably wouldn’t have gotten this fever.” Leo’s voice was full of apology. I secretly sized him up but didn’t see anything unusual. He really did seem like he was just there to visit a sick Ethan. So normal, in fact, that I almost thought the scene I’d witnessed on the camera feed was a dream. I glanced at the security camera on top of the wardrobe. We’d just installed it last month, originally to keep a better eye on Lily. Never thought Lily wouldn’t need it, but Ethan would give me a “surprise” with it first. “Is that so?” I stared at Leo, a half-smile on my face. He seemed a bit unnerved by my gaze and swallowed hard. “Eleanor, what’s wrong?” I walked past him, opened the wardrobe, and pulled out the set of pajamas I’d seen in the video, handing them to him. “Leo, I just bought these earlier this year. Pure silk, incredibly smooth. I’ve barely worn them. They’re yours now.” Leo’s face instantly turned deathly pale. “Eleanor, I… I don’t understand what you mean.” “Then take these pajamas home and think about it. I won’t see you out.” 5 After Leo left, I finally turned to Ethan, who was cowering like a scared rabbit. “Honey, be honest with me. How long has this been going on?” Ethan scrambled off the bed and knelt before me. “Ellie, he seduced me! You know I’ve been shooting that kind of movie with Leo lately. I only just found out he… he’s always been in love with me.” “That night, I was drunk, and he used the excuse of filming to confess to me. I just got too into character and lost control for a moment. Ellie, please believe me, my heart only has you and our family. I swear, as soon as this movie wraps, I’ll never see him again.” “Ellie, just forgive me this once. Give me one more chance, please?” Ethan clutched at my clothes, sobbing uncontrollably. Seeing him like this, I felt my resolve soften. After all, we’d been married for so many years, and we had Lily. “Ellie,” Ethan slapped himself hard across the face. “Even if not for me, think about Lily! She’s so young. Can you really bear to let her grow up without a father?” “I swear, if I ever do anything to wrong you again, may I drop dead! Just forgive me this once, please? Please?” Fine. I sighed and pulled his hands away. “No next time.” After getting Ethan’s repeated assurances, I felt a little more at ease. Maybe he really had just had a moment of weakness. With such a big upheaval, I didn’t bring Lily back home immediately. I needed time to adjust. That night, I lay in bed with my eyes closed, pretending to be asleep. Ethan wrapped his arms around me from behind. “Ellie.” His breathing grew heavier. Normally, I would have hugged him back, enjoying some rare time alone together. But now, I just felt… disgusted. I broke free from his embrace and asked coldly, “Did you take your pills again?” Ethan froze, then stammered an explanation. “I… I just wanted to make you happy.” “Do you need to take them when you’re with him?” Ethan mumbled, “Ellie, it’s not what you think.” “If you can’t, don’t force yourself. I don’t need it.” I grabbed my pillow and went to sleep in the guest room. I didn’t sleep a wink. Forgiveness is easy to say, but hard to do. 6 Ethan did behave himself for a while, just as he’d promised. After finishing that movie, he didn’t contact Leo again. But it wasn’t even a month before he showed his true colors again, getting caught by the paparazzi and ending up trending online. That day, just like last time, he knelt on the floor, slapping himself and begging for my forgiveness. But this time, I didn’t soften. I threw him out. It’s true what they say online: cheating is either zero times or countless times. All that talk about a “moment of weakness.” The truth was, he’d been gay from the start. I should have realized it the first time he took those pills. But for all these years, even when I caught him red-handed, I kept deceiving myself: he still had me in his heart. Now, I finally couldn’t lie to myself anymore. My tears vanished into the darkness. I thought this was the lowest point of my life. But I didn’t expect an even crueler truth was waiting for me. Last month, when I went to pick up Lily, I gave the gold bracelet Ethan had given me to my mom. Only to be told it was fake. Mom was worried we’d been scammed and even sent me a report from a jewelry appraiser. “Ellie, honey, this fake is incredibly well-made. If your Aunt Sarah wasn’t an expert, we’d have been completely fooled.” “I know you two aren’t short on money, but you can’t let people cheat you like this. You need to be more careful in the future, okay?” “Okay, Mom. Thanks.” After hanging up, a chill spread through me. I suddenly remembered the gold bars in the safe at home. All these years, Ethan had claimed gold was a good investment and converted all his income into gold bars, storing them in our home safe. And I had the key. I quickly took out two bars and sent them for testing. The result was something I could never have imagined. All this gold… it was all fake! Ethan had been lying to me all along! Not just the gold; all the jewelry he’d ever given me was fake. Even my wedding diamond was glass. I clenched my jaw, my fists clenched so tight my nails dug into my palms. I was shaking all over, my eyes bloodshot. The hatred reached its peak in that moment.

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The moment I saw the diagnosis, my mind went blank. The doctor said I had late-stage colon cancer and needed immediate surgery, or I might only have a few months to live. “Colon cancer treatment is incredibly expensive. I advise you to start gathering funds as soon as possible.” The doctor’s words echoed in my ears, and hot tears streamed down my face. I was only thirty. So young. I didn’t want to die. I was still reeling when my husband, Kevin, called, pulling me out of my daze. “Sarah, do you know what time it is? My mom’s practically starving to death. Why aren’t you home cooking?” The moment I answered, his accusations came pouring out. “My mom already has a huge problem with you being infertile, and now that she’s finally here, can’t you at least be a good wife and take care of her?” “I have colon cancer,” I choked out, tears still flowing. “It’s late-stage. I’m dying.” But Kevin seemed not to hear me, continuing his relentless barrage. “Just get back here and cook for my mom! What’s this colon cancer nonsense? It’s not April Fool’s Day!” His harsh words shattered the fragile calm I’d finally managed to achieve. Sensing my uncontrollable sobs, his tone softened, as if he was explaining himself. “Honey, my mom was listening just now! I might have been a bit harsh, I’m sorry. I’m outside now, so don’t be mad. She’s my mom, after all. She’s getting old, and she just wants grandkids. It’s hard for me to defy her.” He paused, then continued. “Don’t worry, she’s leaving soon. Once she’s gone, I’ll make it up to you! I’ll take you out for a fancy dinner!” Kevin was usually incredibly cheap; he’d rather eat at home than ever go out. “No, that’s not it. I’m not lying.” I took a deep breath, trying to calm myself. “Kevin, the doctor just told me I have colon cancer. I might not have much time left.” After a brief silence, Kevin started asking for details. “Late-stage colon cancer. The doctor said I need surgery right away, or I might only have a few months to live.” I wiped away my tears and began to explain my plan. “I’m so scared. The doctor said it could be very expensive, so I plan to use all our savings for treatment.” 2 Kevin and I were college sweethearts. We’d been through a lot, on-again, off-again. Besides being a bit stingy, he seemed like a dream guy. When we got married, I told him I wanted to focus on my career before having kids, and he supported me for years, even facing pressure from his parents. That’s why, despite his mom constantly giving me a hard time, I still tried to appease her. But I never expected Kevin’s next response to send a chill down my spine. “Colon cancer, late-stage. Sarah, I just looked up colon cancer. That disease is incurable. No matter how much money you spend, it won’t get better. Why don’t you just give up on treatment?” “What did you say?” “Don’t blame me for being heartless. Colon cancer is incurable. Spending money on treatment will just leave us with nothing and you still gone. It’s better to give up early, leave the money for family, and everyone’s happy.” If I’d initially doubted if I’d misheard him, Kevin’s words now hit me like a sledgehammer. “Colon cancer, it’s a type of cancer. My colleague’s mom had stomach cancer, spent a million bucks, and died two months later. It left them broke, and now their kid can’t even afford tutoring.” “If you insist on treatment, then let’s just get a divorce now! I don’t want to go through all that treatment with you just to end up losing everything!” Coming back to reality, Kevin was still rambling, urging me to give up treatment. My heart completely died. When Kevin was sick before, I nursed him day and night until he recovered. And now… “Give up treatment? Leave the money for family? Everyone’s happy?” “I think you, you scumbag, just want my money! Everyone knows how cheap and selfish you are. How could I have been so blind, to only now see what a heartless jerk you are? I must have been crazy to choose you!” “Divorce? Fine, let’s do it! Right now!” After screaming, I furiously hung up the phone. My adoptive parents always favored my sister, Tiffany, so in my eyes, Kevin was my closest person. He’d always been so good to me. When we were dating, if I wanted a milkshake, he’d run all over town, rain or shine, to get it for me. When I was sick, he’d stay by my bedside day and night. Even now, with his mom constantly giving me a hard time about kids, he’d subtly support me. It wasn’t until I got home, and his mother, Karen’s, torrent of abuse washed over me, that I understood how flimsy Kevin’s “love” really was. “Sarah Evans, do you think you’re some heiress from a wealthy family? Not home till this late? I’m practically starving to death!” “A daughter-in-law who doesn’t respect her mother-in-law like you would have been divorced in my day. And after three years of marriage, you still won’t have kids! How could I have been so blind to let a jinx like you into my house?” I thought, given the bond Kevin and I shared from college through marriage, he’d comfort me and help me figure things out. But his reaction made me feel like a clown, ridiculed by everyone. 2 3 “You have hands and feet, can’t you cook for yourself? Besides, your darling son gets off work at five. Why don’t you make him cook for you?” Unlike my usual meekness, I flung my bag onto the sofa. “Sarah Evans, do you have any semblance of a wife? How dare you speak to your mother-in-law like that?” Kevin’s sister, Stacy, poked her head out of the kitchen, scolding me. “You haven’t forgotten the Williams Family Rules, have you? You’re supposed to speak to your mother-in-law softly. With that shrewish behavior just now, if my brother hadn’t insisted on you, I would have never agreed to let you in!” When I married Kevin, Stacy dragged me into an all-night lesson on the “Williams Family Rules.” In short, it was an ancient, patriarchal book. Everything from needing male heirs to speaking softly to your mother-in-law was covered. “You’re going to make yourselves a laughingstock, still spouting ‘Williams Family Rules’ after all these years! In modern times, people like you should just be laughed out of existence! Oh, wait, Stacy, you weren’t even around back then, were you?” I retorted, raising an eyebrow. “Sarah Evans, let’s get a divorce. You have colon cancer, and you don’t respect our family rules. Our humble home can’t accommodate such a great goddess like you.” Kevin walked out of the bedroom, speaking with a righteous air. He’d never openly defended me when his mom treated me badly. Instead, he’d tell me, “If I defended you in front of my mom, how heartbroken would she be? Honey, you’re in my heart, I stand with you.” Now, it seemed like typical manipulative BS. “Colon cancer?” Karen and Stacy blurted out in unison. Karen shot me a disgusted glance, then waved her hand dismissively. “Sarah, I always told you not to be so harsh with your words. You didn’t listen, and now look, you poisoned yourself right into colon cancer!” Stacy kept glancing at me, her eyes betraying undisguised contempt. “Sarah Evans, we’ve been married for three years. Let’s part amicably. The only joint asset is this house. After the divorce, I’ll take seventy percent, and you’ll take thirty.” Kevin exchanged a look with the two of them, and they immediately started smiling at me, as if hiding a bigger secret. I stared blankly at Kevin, unable to understand him. At our engagement party, I’d witnessed his family’s traditionalist views. But back then, I foolishly thought Kevin was different. In reality, people are products of their environment; it’s impossible to completely escape one’s upbringing. And Kevin, his surroundings had completely corrupted him. “Once the cooling-off period is over, we’re getting a divorce immediately!” I tossed out, then slammed the door. I’d barely walked a few steps when I got a call from the hospital. “Hello, Ms. Sarah Evans? We’re very sorry, but it was our intern’s first day. You actually don’t have colon cancer. It was a misdiagnosis. You have appendicitis.” 4 After hanging up, I felt like I was on an emotional rollercoaster. One moment, I was heartbroken that someone close to me had abandoned me. The next, I was overjoyed that fate had opened my eyes to the true nature of that scumbag. A jerk who abandons a woman will always do it again, or he never will. Instead of fantasizing about changing a scumbag, it’s better to cut him out of your life completely. Humming, I skipped all the way home. Even though my relationship with my adoptive parents wasn’t great, I still needed to tell them about the divorce. I didn’t expect them to look at me with suspicious eyes when I walked in. “Mom, Dad, I’m divorcing Kevin.” I didn’t mince words. The moment I spoke, Kevin walked out of the bedroom, supporting my sister, Tiffany. “Dad, why don’t I take Tiffany to her prenatal appointment? You and Mom are getting old, it’s not convenient. Besides, I’m about to marry…” Tiffany looked sweet and charming, leaning against Kevin with a radiant smile. If you didn’t know they were sister and brother-in-law, they’d look like a picture-perfect couple. I felt both amused and angry. Tiffany was already eagerly picking up my discarded trash? Seeing my displeasure, Tiffany pouted. “Sister, I’m pregnant with Kevin’s baby. And you’re practically half-dead from late-stage colon cancer. How could you give my brother-in-law a child? I’m just thinking about him!” She patted her not-yet-showing belly, her eyes never leaving me. I smiled, turning to look at my adoptive parents. “And you two? What do you think?” My adoptive parents couldn’t possibly have been unaware of Kevin and Tiffany’s affair. The only possibility was that they didn’t care about me. They didn’t care if this hurt me at all. They would only endlessly indulge their biological daughter. My adoptive dad scratched his head, looking clueless, but his words were anything but. “Sarah, you’re divorcing Kevin anyway. Who Kevin chooses to be with, that’s his freedom.” And my adoptive mom was even more blunt. “Sarah Evans, you’re late-stage colon cancer anyway, you’re going to die soon, so don’t bother your sister anymore!” I remembered how I worried they’d be heartbroken if I, their “black-haired child,” died before them, their “white-haired parents.” It felt so ironic now. “Sarah Evans, you should stay away from home in the future. Don’t bring bad luck to the baby in my belly. And don’t think Mom and Dad will pay for your treatment later. Getting colon cancer is what you deserve!” Tiffany rolled her eyes, indignant. But Kevin, beside her, whispered something in her ear. She immediately nodded, straightening up. “Sarah Evans, you need to sign a disownment agreement with us. From now on, your life, death, and old age have nothing to do with us. Don’t expect us to give you any money either!” My gaze moved between Kevin and Tiffany. Then, I smiled leisurely. A scumbag and a manipulative woman—they were perfect for each other, truly a match made in hell. “You’re committing infidelity, aren’t you? What do you think your colleagues and the judge will say about your reputation and your money?” I stared at Kevin with interest, then shifted my gaze to my adoptive parents. “As for disowning me, Mom and Dad, is that what you truly want?” My adoptive dad’s scalp tingled under my stare. He shuffled back a few steps, hiding behind my adoptive mom. My adoptive mom, meanwhile, puffed up like an old hen ready for a fight, her posture aggressive. “Sarah Evans, do you have no shame? You’re so young and you got colon cancer, and you haven’t even honored us yet, but you’re already thinking of spending all our money? How could I have an ungrateful daughter like you?!” “Fine, then. Let’s cut ties. From now on, we’ll have nothing to do with each other!” Even though I knew I wasn’t their biological daughter, hearing them abandon me because of a single sentence from Tiffany still made my heart ache. Bitterness, sadness, and sorrow mixed together, a bitter cocktail of emotions. Walking aimlessly down the street, I called the billionaire. “Sarah, your mom and I are coming to pick you up right away. Just stay put for a bit!”

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A whisper of silk gave way, and I found myself enveloped in a breathless intimacy. The damp, slick friction beneath me sent a flush of shameful pleasure through my veins, a desperate, intoxicating rush. “You… you’re so good at this,” I gasped, barely able to breathe. “I’m… I’m melting.” My hips swayed, an unstoppable rhythm… My name is Ashley, and I’m an art major. To make classes easier, my best friend and I rented an apartment near campus. That night, I walked through the door after class to find my roommate, Chloe, sprawled naked and pale on the living room sofa. Her body was covered in unmistakable marks of intimacy. A blush crept up my neck; clearly, she and her boyfriend had been at it again. Just then, the shower door opened. A man emerged, completely naked, water still clinging to his muscular frame. It was Chloe’s boyfriend, Jake. He’d obviously just showered, still unclad, and his… arousal was impossible to ignore. Clearly, they’d just finished, and I’d walked in before they had a chance to compose themselves. Jake was a swimmer—tall, handsome, with an athletic build that was truly top-tier. I’d seen him compete a few times and couldn’t help but be intrigued. But he was my roommate’s boyfriend, and that was a line I shouldn’t cross. To make matters worse, every time he stayed over, they’d be at it all night, sometimes until dawn. And Chloe’s moans were impossible to ignore. Every time they ‘did their thing,’ I’d find myself hot and restless, forced to resort to my own little toy to soothe my empty body. Staring at Jake’s powerfully built physique, I felt an undeniable surge of longing. Hiding my true thoughts, I feigned nonchalance: “You guys should probably get dressed. I’m going back to my room.” A burning gaze followed me as I walked away. He was… staring at me. It wasn’t surprising, really. Ever since I was little, I’d always been the object of male fantasy. My face was stunning, and my body had developed early: full breasts, a slender waist, long legs, and a shapely behind. I waited a long time in my bedroom until the living room finally went quiet. Only then did I emerge, ready to take a shower. I locked the bathroom door, shed my clothes, and reached for the laundry hamper to toss in my underwear, when I noticed something was off. Before I left, I’d neatly folded my damp panties from the night before and placed them inside. But now, that thong was incredibly rumpled. Frowning in confusion, I picked up the fabric, and a thick, pungent liquid smeared onto my hand. This… this was definitely a man’s… Jake. He’d actually used my underwear for that, and deliberately left the evidence… Was he trying to see my reaction? My face burned. To think that just today, this fabric that touched my most private parts had been… toyed with by Jake… I couldn’t help myself. Slowly, I extended my tongue and licked it. The man’s scent exploded on my tongue. That feeling sent my desire soaring to an unbearable peak. Time dissolved around me. My most intimate parts throbbed, swollen and raw from friction. When I finally snapped back to reality, I was appalled by my own actions. Was I really that desperate? To be aroused by my own roommate’s boyfriend, the one I’d only fantasized about? I frantically threw the thong into the hamper, my face blazing as if on fire, and practically fled into the shower. Warm water cascaded over me as I scrubbed my body, trying desperately to empty my mind. It felt like the only way to suppress the craving deep within my soul. But when I finally emerged from the bathroom, breathless, arms aching and legs weak, I noticed the guest bedroom door was slightly ajar, a sliver of dim yellow light spilling into the dark living room. And filling that darkness were Chloe’s soft, languid moans. My heart, which had just begun to calm, hammered in my chest again. Holding my breath, I crept step by step towards the guest bedroom door. Peeking through the crack, I looked inside. On the bed, Chloe lay sprawled, soft and pliable, her pretty face upturned, eyes glazed over. Her lips trembled uncontrollably. “Ashley… isn’t asleep yet,” she whimpered. “Are you… trying to make her listen?” Jake, his abs clearly defined, radiating explosive power, panted in reply, “Isn’t it… because you’re so wild?” “Liar… liar! Don’t think I don’t know, you… you just want her…” Jake slowed his rhythm. “That slender waist… that ass, swaying like that… what man wouldn’t?” I flushed crimson, utterly mortified. I never dreamed Jake would be fantasizing about me while he was with Chloe! My mouth fell open, exhaling ragged breaths. I wanted to flee, but my legs felt nailed to the floor, unable to move. Just then, Jake suddenly looked up, and our eyes met. “Ah!” I shrieked, trembling, scared half to death. I stumbled back to my bedroom. The shame of being caught spying, combined with the intoxicating thrill of discovering Jake had defiled my underwear, became too much. My body went weak, and I collapsed onto the bed. I wanted it so badly! I wanted a man to appear on my bed right then! Anyone! No matter the consequences, as long as he was as strong as Jake! As long as he could fill the emptiness inside me! I clamped my legs around the pillow in my covers, trying desperately to suppress the restless urge that threatened to burst through my body. My toes curled, I writhed, biting my lip hard. Until the second before I fell asleep, I was still thinking: If only Chloe weren’t here, Jake would definitely pounce on me, wouldn’t he? But I never imagined that day would come so soon. Last week, I left work and found myself caught in a torrential downpour as I exited the subway. I called Chloe, asking if she could bring me an umbrella. But it was Jake who showed up to pick me up. The wind was ferocious, driving the rain sideways. He only had one umbrella, and by the time we got back to the apartment, both of us were practically soaked through. When I stepped inside, I saw Chloe wasn’t there. Only his new poodle, Buddy, was listlessly curled up by the sofa. Jake told me Chloe had left that afternoon for an unexpected business trip. She’d gotten my call and asked him to pick me up. After he finished, Jake urged me to take a shower. “Hurry and change out of those wet clothes before you catch a cold.” I didn’t think much of it; I was genuinely soaked to the bone and shivering. But when I finished my shower and went to get dressed, I realized Jake had rushed me so much that I’d vaguely walked into the bathroom without grabbing any clean underwear or clothes. That’s when a daring thought sparked in my mind: If that’s the case, why wear anything at all? After a moment of hesitation, I wrapped myself in a bath towel. But the towel was too small. If it covered my chest, it wouldn’t cover my butt. After several adjustments, I barely managed to keep myself covered, but any significant movement would reveal everything. Stepping out of the bathroom, I saw Jake, shirtless, doing ab wheel exercises in the living room. Hearing me, he tilted his head and let his gaze sweep over my entire body, from bottom to top. His stare was undisguised, predatory as a wildfire. My face felt like it was on fire, and my legs trembled slightly. He was half-lying on the floor, and from that angle, he had a perfect view of the secrets beneath my towel. Against my better judgment, I didn’t avert his gaze. Instead, I settled onto the sofa, playfully wiggling my foot at Buddy, and watched Jake work out. “Still haven’t had enough of him licking you?” Jake’s words made me blush again. The day he brought Buddy home, Chloe and I had been playfully daring each other, taking turns letting the dog lick our feet. We’d even pretended to moan in ecstasy, joking about who could sound more ‘intense.’ Chloe had secretly recorded it and sent the video to Jake. “Looks like you really enjoy being licked, huh?” Jake dropped his ab wheel, bringing his face close to my legs. His eyes, dark and deep, were fixed intently on mine. His hot breath ghosted over my bare skin, seeming to blow straight into the depths of my soul, stirring a hollow anxiety within me. It was uncomfortable, a little achy, a little desperate. I wanted him. “I… I’m going back to my bedroom…” Though I’d mentally prepared myself for something to happen with Jake, for some reason, I was genuinely panicking in that moment. This man was simply too aggressive, too dominant. But no sooner had I sat on my bed than Jake pushed open the door and handed me his phone. “Chloe called,” he said. “She wants to know if you made it home.” I snatched the phone, eager to talk to her. I’d barely said a few words when Jake casually reached out. He brushed my hair back, then yanked downwards, pulling my bath towel clean off. I froze instantly. How… how dare he do that while I was on the phone with Chloe? Before I could even react, he took another half-step forward, shoved me onto the bed, then grabbed my slender waist and flipped me over. That was it; I was completely done for. This was my favorite position. And now, kneeling on the bed, I was utterly defenseless against Jake. All he had to do was thrust slightly, and he could take me completely. All the while, Chloe was still chattering on the phone about some amazing hair removal cream she wanted to recommend. I had no idea how to respond, only managing to nod and hum in agreement, while trying to push Jake away with my free hand. But he caught my hand, sucking on my fingers, then forcing me to touch him, leaving half my body tingling. It was an itch that went straight to my soul. So this was what it felt like to be overwhelmed by a man! Ignoring Chloe’s bewildered “hello? hello?” from the phone, I meekly arched my back, presenting myself. Jake’s hands gripped my waist. In that instant, I felt my soul soar, my every boundary of shame completely obliterated… Just then, Buddy suddenly started barking frantically at us. In a flash, I snapped back to my senses, violently struggling free and kicking Jake hard backwards. Jake, caught off guard in his relaxed state, stumbled back a step, releasing his hold on me. I seized the chance to try and escape. But even as he doubled over, clutching his stomach in pain, he still managed to snag my wrist with one hand, refusing to let me go. My delayed fear twisted into rage. “Are you insane?” I spat, furious. “If you try anything else, I’m calling the police right now!” Jake glared at me, slowly straightening up. “What are you playing at?” he sneered. “You were laughing hard enough last time you were spying, and you were practically begging for it just now. What, suddenly you’re innocent?” I shot back immediately, “When did I ever beg for it? Are you talking about me almost exposing myself just now? That was an accident! I didn’t do it on purpose. You saw me struggling with that towel while you were doing your planks and didn’t say anything, just kept staring. What’s your problem?” Jake scoffed, his eyes dropping to my chest. “Fine, staring up your towel was my fault, it cancels out your spying last time. But then why were you inviting me in just now? Nothing under that towel?” I was filled with regret. That behavior was undeniably provocative, open to interpretation, but I truly hadn’t thought of any other way at the time. “I just accidentally forgot, believe it or not,” I said. “Now let me go!” Before he could say anything else, Buddy darted to our feet, barking even more frantically at us. Even the dog knew something was wrong. Even the dog knew that his owner, Chloe, should be standing with Jake, not me. Jake released my hand, scooped up the dog, and growled menacingly at Buddy, “What are you butting in for? Want to see if I’ll stew you later?!” I quickly pushed him away and locked the door from the inside. My first instinct was to grab my phone and call Chloe immediately to tell her everything. But then I hesitated, unsure how to even begin explaining it. Chloe wouldn’t just take my word for it. If she questioned Jake, and he revealed my spying and the bath towel incident, I’d be in a difficult position. After all, anyone hearing it would frown, thinking it was intentional. And I had been a little confused, my judgment clouded by that wild, primal desire. I sighed, deciding to say nothing. Tit for tat, Jake probably wouldn’t bring it up to Chloe either, so I’d just pretend nothing happened. Let them continue their cozy, sweet life. Chloe and I could keep sharing the apartment as before; it would be best for everyone. Provided, of course, Jake kept his hands off me. I didn’t leave my bedroom again until Chloe returned. Later that night, I drifted into a hazy sleep, only to be jolted awake by knocking at my door. Assuming it was Jake, I snapped, “What do you want?”

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After hinting and overtly suggesting it to Chad for the ninety-ninth time, I finally found a delicate ring box in his jacket pocket. He looked a little dazed as he saw my beaming face. “I haven’t had a chance to tell you, but if you’re free this weekend, how about we invite your parents out for dinner?” I thought this was it – the proposal. That Saturday, I invited my parents and a few close friends. I had my hair and makeup professionally done, wanting to look my best and capture the moment of a lifetime. But he never showed up. Then, Tiffany, his ‘angel’ he couldn’t let go of, updated her social media. “Spoiled princess and her devoted prince.” The accompanying picture showed two hands, intertwined, wearing matching rings. In that moment, I felt no anger, no sadness. Only exhaustion. Our love, it ends here. When I found the ring box in his pocket, my heart pounded like a war drum. My earlier feelings of hurt and frustration vanished, replaced by a clear, summer-sky happiness. Chad’s gaze flickered from the ring box in my hand to my face, bright as a sunlit morning after the rain. He finally said the words I’d yearned for. I truly believed our seven-year marathon of love was finally reaching its joyful finish line. I spent the following days counting down, too excited to sleep at night. On the day I’d dreamed of, I wore a custom-made dress and spent hours perfecting an intricate hairstyle. My parents and friends teased me, “Never seen anyone so eager to tie the knot!” I wasn’t just eager to marry; I was eager to marry Chad, to give our years of love a proper culmination. But fate had other plans. Chad never showed up, nor did he call, until the restaurant closed. Just as I’d feared. The other shoe, which had been hanging in the air all day, finally dropped. This wasn’t the first time he’d ditched me for Tiffany. I’d lost count. On my birthday, he had to buy medicine for Tiffany’s cramps. On our anniversary, he brought Tiffany home, claiming her toilet was blocked and she had nowhere to stay. Even when I got acute gastroenteritis, he prioritized taking Tiffany’s dog to the vet. Again and again, I felt like I’d turned into a doormat, but truthfully, I just couldn’t bear to let go of the seven years and the prime of my youth we’d shared. I placated my parents, who were seething, and watched the pouring rain outside. Finally, I felt a sense of release. It was time to let go. Somewhere along the way, my words stopped reaching him, my efforts went unnoticed, my emotions were irrelevant to him. We seemed to have nothing left to say. My phone rang. It was Chad, his voice irritable and impatient. “Why aren’t you home so late? If you don’t come back, I’m locking the door!” I sighed. That familiar, inexplicable weariness resurfaced. “Chad, you invited my parents for dinner tonight…” I heard his breath hitch on the other end. After a long silence, his voice came, tentative. “So, are your parents… still there?” Before I could answer, he blurted out, “Riley, can you hold on? I have an important call coming in. Can I call you back in a bit?” He sounded urgent. He hung up before I could reply. I no longer cared whether he truly had another call or if it was just an excuse to escape. Staring at my dead phone, I walked into the rain, letting the downpour drench my expensive dress. The hairstyle that took five hours was plastered to my forehead. Suddenly, I remembered a scene from right after college, when Chad and I waited for the bus in the rain to save cab fare. He had tilted his only umbrella completely over my head. That night, back home with a fever from the rain, he sneezed and mused, “Someday, when I’m rich, I’ll buy a car. I’ll pick you up in all weather, my baby, so you’ll never get a single drop of rain on you again.” I couldn’t tell if it was rain or tears blurring my vision. A cab pulled up beside me. The driver was a kind-looking woman. “Hop in, honey! This ride’s on me!” She was talkative, trying hard to engage me in conversation. As I paid and got out, she called out to me again. “Listen, sweetheart, there’s nothing you can’t get through. Money can be earned back, and men can be replaced. Don’t ever let yourself be miserable.” It dawned on me. She was worried I might be having dark thoughts. I waved gratefully at her. Yes, from now on, I wouldn’t compromise myself again. Before bed, I scrolled through my phone. Tiffany, Chad’s ‘angel,’ had updated her social media. “The princess just couldn’t sleep, so her prince came specifically to sing her to slumber.” The video showed Chad’s profile, gently humming a beautiful melody. Chad had a great voice; he sang really well. When I was down, I used to jokingly ask him to sing for me. What did he say back then? “I’m not a professional singer. If you want to listen, just search online for a song.” Looking back on our seven years together, Chad truly didn’t have much patience for me. I blacklisted both Tiffany and Chad. In a strange way, I suppose it was my own twisted blessing for them to be together. I woke up the next morning to Chad sleeping soundly beside me. Perhaps it was a change in my mindset, but the side profile that once captivated me now looked utterly bland. I quickly got up, showered, and ran downstairs to buy breakfast. By the time Chad woke up, my breakfast was nearly finished. He sat at the table, expecting me to bring him his breakfast, just as I had done countless mornings before. But I simply washed my plate and walked past him. “Where’s my breakfast?” I turned back to him, expressionless. “Starting today, let’s just buy our own breakfast. You always said what I made didn’t suit your taste anyway.” Chad was a picky eater. To cater to him, I used to wake up early, making him different healthy porridges every day. But he would always frown, complaining it was too hot or tasteless. Now, having thought it through, wouldn’t that time be better spent sleeping in a bit or going for a morning run? I expected him to get angry, but instead, he paused, then grabbed my arm. “Riley, yesterday was just too busy with work. I honestly forgot about the dinner with your parents…” Even now, he was still lying and making excuses, but I was tired of deceiving myself and playing along with his pathetic charade. “Was it really just work?” My question hit a nerve. “Riley, what are you implying? You don’t believe me? What do you think I was doing, then?” He was about to say more, but I impatiently pulled up a screenshot of Tiffany’s social media post from yesterday. “You didn’t think I’d recognize you just because your face wasn’t showing, did you?” Chad had a red mole on the back of his right hand. I had one in the same spot on my left hand. I used to be proud of it, thinking we were meant to be. Chad’s self-righteousness instantly evaporated. “Yesterday was Tiffany’s birthday. She doesn’t have many friends in this city, so I just went to celebrate with her.” “Last night, I was actually on my way to pick you up, but Tiffany called, saying she thought there was an intruder in her house…” I pulled my arm away and nodded indifferently. “Right. Of course.” He froze, a flicker of shock in his eyes. He’d probably prepared a whole speech for my tears and arguments, but I hadn’t played by his rules. “My bad, I didn’t manage my time well. I’ll definitely take you to see your parents this weekend.” I casually applied some lipstick, saying, “We’ll see.” His expression softened slightly, as if offering a hesitant apology. He awkwardly suggested, “I have a college reunion today. Want to come along?” In the past, I would have gladly said yes, then spent ages getting ready to go with him. I always believed that loving someone meant integrating into their world. But he used to dislike it and never took me to his friends’ gatherings. I’d once complained. “Why would you go? You don’t know them.” Yet, I’d seen him bring Tiffany to friend gatherings more than once on her social media. “No, thanks. I don’t know them. Besides, my company has a team-building event today.” I used to cling to him whenever I had a moment, so much so that after years of working, I rarely attended company team-building events. My world used to revolve solely around him. His world, however, included games, sports, friends, and his ‘angel,’ Tiffany. Now, I wanted to break free from that enclosed world and see the excitement outside. My repeated, nonchalant rejections of his meek attempts to reconcile finally pushed Chad’s patience to its limit. “Go or don’t go, whatever!” He slammed the door shut, and I calmly changed into a pretty dress. My mood was exceptionally good now that I no longer cared about his temper. But I never expected that my company’s team-building location would be the same as his reunion. After using the restroom, I passed a private dining room and, by sheer coincidence, saw Chad. His close friends were teasing him. “Chad, how come your girlfriend isn’t calling or texting you constantly this time? Did you guys have a fight?” Chad had a sensitive stomach, but his buddies always pushed him to drink. I used to constantly text him to take it easy whenever he was out. “So what if we fought? She’s almost thirty, not eighteen or nineteen. She wouldn’t dare break up with me, would she?” Someone chimed in, “Yeah, she’s become an old hag. Who’d want her if she left you?” “Chad, if you ask me, you’re too responsible. Otherwise, you’d have dumped her years ago and been with Tiffany.” Chad rubbed his temples, looking quite annoyed. “She’s hinted and suggested it so many times. It’s annoying…” So, he knew I wanted to get married. He just pretended not to, dodging the topic. I shook my head, about to leave, when Tiffany’s voice came from behind me. “Riley, did you follow him all the way here? You really keep a tight leash on Chad.” She said this as she pushed open the door to the private room. Everyone inside turned to stare at me. Chad’s friends exchanged glances, as if to say, “See? She followed him again.” Chad’s eyes held an unreadable expression. He leaned back on the sofa as if nothing was amiss, utterly confident. “This morning you were all high and mighty saying you wouldn’t come, but turns out you wanted to sneak around and spy!” “Since you’re here, come in and say hello properly. Why act so timid and petty?” I didn’t want to respond, but then I remembered past grievances. No matter what, I had to settle the score tonight. After Tiffany returned, she excitedly got everyone to play a drinking game: whoever lost had to drink as a penalty. I knew she was deliberately trying to ignore me and make me uncomfortable, but I just browsed on my phone, keeping an eye on their movements, feeling perfectly at ease. Suddenly, their table erupted in shouts again. Tiffany had lost. Annoyed, she leaned against Chad, rubbing her temples. “Chad, I feel so dizzy, I think I’ve had too much. Can you help me out?” Chad had probably drunk a lot that evening. Now, hearing Tiffany, he frowned at the line of drinks in front of him. The scene mirrored the welcome party for Tiffany a year ago. That day was my birthday, but Chad was uncharacteristically unreachable all day. Late that night, I got an unknown call. Later, I found out it was Tiffany, saying Chad was drunk and asking me to pick him up. When I rushed to the private room, they burst into laughter. Tiffany had lost a round of Truth or Dare and deliberately played a trick on me. I was furious and tried to leave immediately, but Chad whispered in my ear, warning me. “Riley, these are all my friends. Don’t make a scene and embarrass me!” Back then, I still loved him deeply, so I swallowed my resentment and sat down. Then, just like tonight, when Tiffany lost and was penalized with drinks, she turned to Chad for help. Chad had already had quite a bit to drink. I knew Chad had a sensitive stomach and felt bad for him. Swayed by his feigned weakness and coaxing, I drank the shots in front of him instead. His buddies seemed to get a kick out of it. Chad kept losing as if cursed, and eventually, I ended up in the hospital. Yet, he showed no gratitude, feeling that my hospital trip ruined their fun. “Riley, look how uncomfortable Chad is. You’re such a good drinker, come on, drink it for him!” My thoughts snapped back to the present. Tiffany looked at me with an air of entitlement. “Chad, hurry up and tell her to come over! She listens to you the most…” Chad stared at me steadily, then carelessly beckoned me over. “I don’t feel well. Drink it for me.” Finally, this moment had arrived. I curved my lips, a smile spreading, and walked toward them.

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The day my wife gave birth, my mother and I accidentally overheard her conversation with her assistant outside the delivery room: “Jason, I had twins with different fathers. The one with the birthmark on his hand is your son. The other one is my husband’s.” “Vivian, really? That’s… shocking!” Jason Clark looked utterly incredulous. “It’s true! That night, after I was intimate with Liam, I was also with you. I wasn’t sure… so I had a DNA test done immediately. The results showed they’re heteropaternal superfecundation twins!” Hearing this, Jason was ecstatic. He took his child and showered Vivian Hayes with passionate kisses. Witnessing this, my mother couldn’t bear the shock. She collapsed and never woke up. As I knelt before my mother’s cold body, weeping uncontrollably, Vivian sent me a text. “Honey, I’ve decided to go to a postpartum recovery center. I’m only taking one of the babies. You can take care of the other one. Let you experience what it’s like to be a father!” The double blow made me want to die. I coughed up a mouthful of blood! … 1 I don’t know how to describe the rage and grief churning inside me. My lover’s infidelity, my mother’s death, and the fact that one of the sons wasn’t mine—all these humiliations felt like an invisible demonic hand, clutching my heart so tightly I could barely breathe. Looking at my mother’s lifeless body, my guilt intensified. But there was no time to wallow in sorrow; a nurse soon approached me, holding a baby. “Mr. Miller, please hold your baby! He’s been crying non-stop ever since your wife left with his brother.” “It’s like he knows his mom abandoned him.” I raised my bloodshot eyes and slowly turned my head towards the baby in the nurse’s arms. I reached out with trembling hands and took the child. In that moment, my heart was in turmoil. I prayed that Vivian had taken my child, not that other man’s. But when I saw that the baby’s tiny hands had no birthmark, it was like I’d been punched in the gut. I collapsed to the floor. She had chosen to leave my child behind, taking only Jason Clark’s son to live their so-called happy family life. My heart ached unbearably. Just then, Jason Clark texted me: “Liam, buddy, I’ll take good care of Vivian and the little guy, don’t you worry! I’ll even be his godfather.” Right after, he posted on social media. Two photos. One showed his hand intertwined with a delicate, fair hand wearing a wedding ring. I knew that hand too well. On her ring finger was the wedding ring I had personally designed and given her. The other photo was of him holding their son in one arm, his other arm around Vivian’s back as she snuggled her head on his shoulder. “Grateful for the two most important people in my life: my son and the woman I love most.” “Even during her recovery, she wants to be with me and our son.” Colleagues who knew us, though confused, liked and congratulated them. Only I stood frozen, clutching my phone, my eyes red and trembling. What a shameless pair. What a stolen family. She claimed she left my son with me so I could learn to be a father, supposedly to spare Jason’s feelings. In reality, she just didn’t want my child to get in their way. The baby was so young, just born, and already abandoned by his own mother. I silently took off my wedding ring and threw it out the window. Seven years of deep affection had ended in mockery and betrayal. What should have been a joyous occasion had turned into planning a funeral. I swallowed all my bitterness alone, arranging my mother’s funeral. Vivian never called me, not even a single text, since that day. She didn’t even ask about our young son. 2 That night, I contacted a lawyer to draft divorce papers. I’d serve them to her when she returned. Since the baby was so young, I hired a nanny to help care for him. Life had to go on. Work couldn’t stop. I returned to the office. As soon as I walked in, I heard colleagues whispering. When I walked past, they all looked at me, their eyes filled with mockery, pity, and sympathy. “Did you guys hear? CEO Hayes actually had twins with different fathers. One of them is Assistant Clark’s.” “Whoa! You can’t just say things like that.” “I’m not making it up, it’s true. The day CEO Hayes gave birth, I happened to be passing by and accidentally overheard the doctor talking to her.” “Look, Assistant Clark even posted about it on social media, saying something about being a godfather. He’s actually the biological father.” “Oh my god, that’s insane!” “Director Miller is so pitiful. He doesn’t know anything. CEO Hayes not only cheated on him but also left him with his child…” All sorts of humiliating words reached my ears, making them burn. Everyone knew Vivian had cheated on me. I don’t know how I made it to my office; my chest ached as if it were bleeding. Before I could even compose myself, a colleague came in to tell me there was a meeting. “Director Miller, CEO Hayes just called. She wants everyone in the conference room for a meeting.” When I entered the conference room, it was already full. I looked up at the projector. Vivian was on screen, holding Jason Clark’s child, announcing something to everyone. “During my recovery period, I’ve decided to let Assistant Clark temporarily take over as acting CEO. That project we were working on needs to be pushed forward. Whoever can land the contract will receive a very generous bonus from the company.” As soon as she finished, everyone turned to look at me again. “I thought CEO Hayes would let Director Miller manage things, since he’s her husband.” “Alright, keep it down.” I ignored the whispers and focused on winning that project. After all, I’d be divorcing Vivian soon and resigning. I needed to earn some money for the baby before I left. From then on, I was constantly running between the company and home, trying to soothe a baby to sleep while also working late on the project. After several sleepless days and nights, my body started to give out. By the time I finished the project, I was exhausted. When I took the initiative to contact the client with my project proposal, they were very satisfied with it. As soon as I got back to my office, I collapsed from exhaustion. When I opened my eyes again, I found myself in a hospital. I was anxious to be discharged because the client was coming to sign the contract today. Unexpectedly, when I walked into the conference room, I saw Vivian with Jason Clark, signing the contract with the client. “I never expected Assistant Clark to be so talented. This project is actually his work.” “I thought it was Director Miller’s.” “How could it be? I’ve been in charge of this project all along. I put a lot of hard work into it.” Standing at the door, I couldn’t hold back any longer and rushed in. I finally understood. Jason Clark had stolen my project while I was unconscious and claimed it as his own. 3 “Jason Clark, the project I worked tirelessly on, staying up all night—when did it become yours?” I looked at this despicable scumbag, wanting nothing more than to punch him. He saw the fury in my eyes and, flustered, hid behind Vivian. “CEO Hayes, this project is indeed mine. Director Miller must be addled from taking care of the baby if he’s trying to steal credit.” Hearing this, Vivian glared at me, then politely addressed the confused client. “Don’t listen to him. I announced a big reward for anyone who could produce an outstanding project, so naturally, everyone wants a piece of the pie.” “I believe this project was done by my assistant, Jason Clark.” The client, enlightened, looked at me with disdain. “I can’t believe there are people in this world who would stoop to such sneaky things for money.” His words made everyone present mock me as a thief. “I never knew Director Miller was that kind of person!” “You can know a person’s face, but not their heart!” “Could it be retaliation? Because of that…” “Shh, don’t talk!” I stood there like a clown, utterly humiliated. I couldn’t take it anymore. I punched Jason Clark in the face. “This is my project! How dare you just take it?” Vivian’s face immediately darkened. She had an employee escort the client out, not wanting them to witness a company dispute. Once they left, Vivian slapped me across the face. After she hit me, her body trembled violently, and she quickly pulled her hand back. Since we married, we had always been loving and had never fought. Now, because of Jason Clark, Vivian had truly lost it with me for the first time. “Are you done making a scene? Do you have to embarrass me in front of everyone? If you want money, I can give it to you.” “The client was just here, and you act childishly, trying to steal a project like a thief.” She didn’t even offer me an explanation. Even if I continued to insist the project was mine, no one would believe me. Jason Clark hypocritically rushed to Vivian’s side. “CEO Hayes, don’t blame Director Miller. Don’t let my affairs cause you two to argue.” But our marriage had already fractured because of him. He’d even fathered a child with her. I laughed self-deprecatingly, tears of utter disappointment welling in my eyes. Seeing me like this, Vivian’s heart fluttered. She wanted to say something, but I had already taken off my work badge and thrown it on the floor. “Vivian Hayes, I’ll send you the divorce papers and my resignation letter later.” With that, I disappeared through the doorway. Vivian was stunned. She hadn’t expected me to bring up divorce. Just as she was about to chase after me, Jason Clark quickly stopped her. “Vivian, let’s go home quickly!” “Mom just called, said the baby’s been crying non-stop.” “I think he misses his mommy.” Hearing this, Vivian lost all inclination to look for me and hurriedly left with Jason Clark. I watched her retreating figure, so decisive. It never occurred to her that she had another child at home waiting for her, also longing for his mother’s embrace. Son, we don’t want a mother like that. 4 As soon as I got home, I heard my son crying. At that moment, an endless wave of sorrow washed over me. His mother was on the other side, taking care of someone else’s child, never once asking about him. I picked him up, cooed softly, and lulled him to sleep. Just as he finally drifted off, my phone buzzed with a video call from Jason Clark. My finger accidentally swiped and answered. The just-asleep baby instantly started crying again. But I stared transfixed at the video, at the naked man and woman passionately kissing, clinging to each other. “Jason, be careful, I just finished my postpartum recovery.” “Don’t worry, I’ll be gentle.” “Let’s just indulge one last time. After tomorrow, I have to go home.” “I’ve neglected him for so long because of you. When I think of the disappointed look in his eyes, I get so scared I’ll lose him.” “And you, why did you have to steal his project? You made me frame him.” Vivian playfully tapped Jason’s chest, but after a few taps, she slowly melted into his tender embrace. My eyes were bloodshot. I screamed at the shameless couple in the video like a madman, but they didn’t seem to hear. Only I was left, like a fool, to endure the torment. So, Vivian knew the project was mine, but she chose to frame me for Jason Clark’s sake. My heart died in that instant. Finally, I smashed my phone against the wall. My heart truly ached, so cold. There was no need to stay in this house anymore; it was Vivian’s pre-nuptial property. The day I married her, many of her friends had secretly called me ungrateful, mocking me as a poor loser unworthy of Vivian. For her, I had endured it all. That’s why I worked so hard on the project. In the end, I had only paved the way for someone else. The next day, I woke up early, packed my things, and signed the divorce papers, leaving them on the coffee table before I left. I took my son and left without a shred of reluctance. Unexpectedly, just as I opened the door, Vivian returned with Jason Clark’s spawn. The moment she saw me, she leaned into my arms. “Liam, I’m back!” “I know you and our son must have missed us, right?” Missed them? Ha! I emotionlessly pushed Vivian away. Thinking of her betrayal and her indulgence of Jason Clark, I wished I never had to see her again in this lifetime. “Liam? You… what’s wrong?” “Are you still angry about the project?” I said nothing, just watched her with extreme coldness, waiting to see how she would explain herself. Just then, Jason Clark’s child started crying. Vivian’s eyes lit up. She handed the baby to me. “Liam, you haven’t seen little Jake yet. Quick, hold him.” I raised my hand and slapped her across the face. She’d been back for so long and hadn’t asked a single question about the child in our home, yet she wanted me to hold Jason Clark’s spawn. “Vivian Hayes, can you stop pretending?” “This child is clearly one of the heteropaternal twins you carried, Jason Clark’s spawn. Why should I hold my wife’s lover’s child?” Vivian’s eyes widened, and she stood there stunned for a long time. “You… you knew?” “The truth always comes out.” I threw the divorce papers in her face. “Since it’s come to this, let’s just get divorced. I’ll let you two tragic lovers be together.” Just as I was about to leave, Vivian tearfully hugged me from behind. “No, let’s not get divorced.” “I’ll change. To make up for my mistake, I’ve decided to hold a one-month celebration for the baby tomorrow and announce that I’ll transfer all my assets to our child, okay?” Seeing I was unmoved, Vivian snatched my son from my arms, her eyes red with tears. The moment the child saw his mother, he smiled. I hesitated. So, I waited. For my son, I would give her one more chance. That night, Vivian dressed very provocatively and came into my room to sleep with me, but I kicked her out. She didn’t get angry. She was about to try again when she received a call from Jason Clark. Soon after, she looked distraught, unhesitatingly changed her clothes, and hurried out. Until the next day, at the baby’s one-month celebration party. Vivian had already instructed her new assistant to seat my son and me at the main table. Soon, she appeared, holding Jason Clark’s child in one arm and Jason Clark himself on the other. She chatted and laughed with numerous distinguished guests, completely forgetting about my son and me. Everyone was watching me, making a fool of myself. When it came to the announcement, Vivian looked conflicted, her eyes avoiding ours. “Taking advantage of my child’s one-month celebration today, I have a joyous announcement to make.” “That is, I’ve decided to transfer my company assets to the child in my arms as his inheritance.” At that moment, everyone cheered. Only I picked up my son and left the venue, dejected. Vivian, oh Vivian, if you couldn’t do it, why did you promise? You gave us hope again and again, only to crush us with despair in the end. This time, I was completely heartbroken. I took my son and left this sorrowful city directly. And when Vivian couldn’t find my son and me anywhere at the banquet, her heart trembled with panic. Just then, her assistant ran over, flustered. “CEO Hayes, bad news!” “The client just called. They said the project design proposal wasn’t the final version, just an unfinished draft.” “They’re demanding the final version now, or they’ll terminate the contract and sue us for fraud.”

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To help my girlfriend pay off her debts, my mom and I worked ourselves to the bone, day and night. Because of it, Mom developed lung cancer. When I rushed to the hospital with the money for her treatment, I found she had already hanged herself, leaving only a letter: “Liam, Mom’s not going to make it. Take this money and pay off those debts. Sophia is a good girl; she has you in her heart, she just lost her way for a bit.” “Once the debts are paid, you two live a good life together.” Clutching my mother’s ashes, I handed the thirty thousand she had painstakingly saved to Sophia. Back at the company, I accidentally overheard her talking with a few “creditors.” “Ms. Sterling, Mr. Evans has passed all the tests you set. What’s the next step?” Sophia’s childhood friend, Dylan, suddenly spoke up: “Sophia, my dear, although Liam can go through thick and thin with you, we still need to see if he can handle wealth and fortune.” Sophia pursed her lips: “Next, I want to see if he’s truly sincere with me.” “Once he knows my identity, if he doesn’t covet money, isn’t swayed by riches…” “I’ll marry him.” I looked at my mother’s ashes, tears streaming down my face. Sophia, Mom was wrong about you, and I was fooled too. I don’t want to marry you anymore. After leaving Sterling Corp, I sat dazedly by the roadside, holding my mother’s urn. To save five hundred dollars for Sophia’s debt, Mom had actually made me put her ashes in a pickle jar. Sophia’s face appeared on the large screen in the square. The news anchor reported: “Just moments ago, Sophia Sterling, the Sterling Corporation chairman who disappeared three years ago, attended a ceremony with her fiancé, Dylan Hayes.” Watching the glamorous Sophia on the screen, tears blurred my vision. So, all the back-breaking work my mother and I did to pay off debts was just an elaborate scam. I sat there for a long time, until evening, when Sophia called. Her voice on the phone was still gentle: “Why aren’t you home so late? Where are you? I’ll come pick you up.” I opened my mouth but couldn’t say a word. Before, I would have complained with a hint of annoyance about her interrupting my work. But now, I couldn’t bring myself to utter such intimate words. Sophia’s tone became anxious: “Liam, where are you?” “Busy.” Sophia paused, seemingly remembering that to help her pay off debts, I always worked late into the night. She had promised that once the debts were cleared, she would marry me and we’d live a stable life. And today was supposed to be the day she confessed her identity to me. “I… I have something to tell you. Actually, I’m the heir to the Sterling Corporation.” “Wait for me, I’m coming to get you…” I hung up the phone and hailed a cab. I had long given up any hope for Sophia. When I came to my senses, the car window reflected my tear-streaked face. Sophia’s messages kept popping up on my phone; I didn’t even glance at them. Today was supposed to be the beginning of our new life. But her deception had turned my mother’s death into a tragedy. Five years of hard work, only to exchange for an absurd truth. Sophia, I don’t want to marry you anymore. That night, I didn’t go home; I stayed in a hotel. Sophia sent messages all night and called countless times; I ignored them all. The next morning, I went to the company to prepare my resignation letter. This company was a subsidiary of Sterling Corp, and I was just an ordinary accountant. Five years ago, I met and fell in love with Sophia, who had just joined the company. After I introduced her to my mother and we started planning the wedding, she told me she had incurred massive debts and been fired from her job. To help her pay them off, I took on multiple part-time jobs, and Mom also worked day and night, her already weathered face growing even more fatigued. Unexpectedly, this company was her own business. I laughed self-deprecatingly. Just then, Sophia walked in. I silently took out the printed resignation agreement and, under her gaze, calmly signed my name. She looked at me, her voice gentle: “Finished writing?” “Finished.” 2 Sophia bit her lip gently, seemingly unaware of the change in me. She cleared her throat: “Liam Evans, come with me for a moment.” As I followed her out, my colleagues immediately started whispering. “Oh my god, did you see the news? Sophia Sterling is the chairman of Sterling Corp!” “Isn’t Liam about to become the CEO’s husband? But look at his face…” “Just a little spat between them, they’ll make up in a couple of days…” Everyone thought I was about to hit the jackpot. Only I knew I just wanted to escape all of this. In the office, Sophia reached out to take my hand. I instinctively stepped back: “Ms. Sterling.” Sophia frowned: “Why didn’t you come home last night? Still mad at me?” I shook my head: “I went to see my mother.” I didn’t want to go home because I didn’t want Mom to see her again. With treatment, Mom still had a chance to live. But she chose to end her life to avoid burdening us. Sophia seemed to sense something was off with me. After a moment of silence, she spoke: “Tonight, let’s go see Auntie together.” After saying that, she seemed to remember something, a hint of hesitation in her eyes. She slowly handed me a card. “There’s a million in here. Buy Auntie some new clothes, consider it as…” I looked at the bank card but didn’t take it. What she owed us couldn’t be compensated with money. Seeing me silent, a flash of panic crossed Sophia’s eyes, and just as she was about to speak, a ringtone interrupted her thoughts. Sophia took out her phone, glanced at me, hesitated for a moment, then left. I knew this was probably her so-called test for me. Testing my sincerity, testing if I was greedy for money. But I no longer cared. Afterward, I submitted my resignation agreement. Faced with my sudden resignation request, Vice President Davis didn’t seem surprised. “Liam, you’re resigning. Does Ms. Sterling have other arrangements for you?” I bit my lip, finding it all somewhat absurd. Everyone thought I was about to become the CEO’s husband, to join the upper class. Everyone envied my luck. Yet they didn’t know I had lost my mother forever because of it. If I had a choice, I would rather have never met Sophia. Leaving the company, I saw Sophia with her childhood friend, Dylan Hayes. Seeing my gaze, Sophia subconsciously started to explain; “This is Dylan, he’s my…” Before she could finish, Dylan put his arm around her: “Fiancé.” I said nothing. Then, Dylan spoke again: “Excuse me, please move.” A hint of provocation flashed in Dylan’s eyes. I silently stepped back, clearing the way. Sophia looked at me, hesitation in her eyes, wanting to say something, but was ultimately pulled away by Dylan. That evening, I went to a memorial chapel and placed my mother’s ashes there. I stayed until the prayers for her soul were complete. Sophia didn’t show up, nor did she ask. I didn’t care. Whether she knew about Mom’s death or not didn’t matter anymore. I think if Mom knew the truth from the afterlife, she wouldn’t want to see her again either. Five years of misplaced devotion ended at this moment. At dawn, I returned home. Sophia wasn’t back; I didn’t care. As I packed my things, the news was reporting on Sterling Corporation’s chairman and her fiancé Dylan Hayes attending a gala. Looking at the well-matched pair, I felt little emotion. After packing my luggage, I was about to leave. The sound of a door opening, and Sophia appeared. The moment she saw me, Sophia rushed over and grabbed my hand: “Where were you last night? Why didn’t you answer my calls?” I was taken aback and pulled my hand free from Sophia’s grasp. “I was with Mom last night. I didn’t want to disturb her rest, so I turned off my phone.” Hearing me mention Mom, Sophia remembered what she had said that day, a look of guilt on her face. “I’ll arrange for the best doctors to help Auntie recuperate.” With that, she took out a box and pressed it into my hand. “This is what I promised to give Auntie.” I subconsciously opened it. Inside was a bracelet. It was the genuine version of the bracelet Mom had cherished so carefully. I froze. Once, Sophia had held Mom’s hand, vowing earnestly and very seriously that one day, she would give her a priceless genuine piece. 3 Mom had smiled then; she didn’t care if the bracelet was real or not. As long as it was from Sophia, from the daughter-in-law she approved of, she would be happy. But I think that was in the past. I closed the box and handed it back. “When you have the chance, give it to her yourself.” Sophia frowned slightly. Every time, I had made the choice she most anticipated. But my politeness now made her feel a bit estranged. A slight unease welled up in her heart. She gripped my hand, tightening it slightly. “Auntie’s health…” Just then, Dylan appeared, linking his arm through Sophia’s. “Sophia, darling, I want to stay in this room!” She was pointing to my room. “This room is occupied.” After Sophia said this, she immediately explained to me: “He’s my friend, here for a temporary stay because of work.” With that, Sophia stared at me intently, as if expecting me to refuse. But I nodded, agreeing without hesitation: “Let him have the room. I need to go be with my mother.” Sophia froze for a moment. Dylan, not giving me a chance to back out, immediately rushed into the room. Only then did she notice the luggage in my hand. She bit her lip, gripping my hand tightly, refusing to let go. The guilt in her eyes deepened. Finally, amidst Dylan’s urging, she spoke: “Tomorrow, I’ll go see Auntie.” I took my luggage and returned to my mother’s apartment, ready to collect all her belongings. But looking at her room, I couldn’t help but cry again. Her room was large, capable of holding many things. Her room was also small, so small it only contained bits and pieces of me and Sophia. On the wall hung a photo of me and Sophia. On the table sat the inexpensive little duckling figurines Sophia and I had given her. In the corner, the milk I brought for her, she hadn’t drunk a single bottle. All saved for me and Sophia. The bracelet Sophia gave her, she kept carefully in a box, polished bright. Besides these, what belonged to her were countless craft components. Endless embroidery, and a mountain of leather bags. All of this was to save money for Sophia’s debt. And all for my future happiness. I tore these photos to shreds, smashed the figurines to pieces. But the one photo, of me and Sophia holding her hand, I couldn’t bring myself to destroy. I tucked the photo at the bottom of a box and packed everything up. I went back to the company for the final handover. As soon as I arrived, I saw Dylan sitting in my chair. Colleagues around us looked on, no one speaking. Perhaps in their eyes, this was a showdown between the childhood sweetheart and the fated love. Get caught in the middle, and no one escapes unscathed. Seeing me approach, Dylan crossed his legs and tossed out a check. “Ten million, for this seat.” Faced with his provocation, I calmly took the check. “Alright, I’ll just pack my things.” Everyone thought I had bent my back for a paltry sum, sighing at me with disappointment. I didn’t care, just calmly packed my things, ready to leave. Just then, Sophia walked over and noticed me holding my luggage. Her expression suddenly tightened. “Where are you going?” “I…” Dylan cut in: “I bought this spot.” Sophia frowned, glanced at me, and I held up the check. “I took the money. Ten million.” Hearing my words, Sophia suddenly froze. She turned her head to see Dylan’s expression, as if seeking praise. Her face suddenly darkened, and the atmosphere became somewhat tense. Sophia said nothing, as if tacitly agreeing. Not until my figure disappeared from view, Sophia pushed away Dylan’s approaching hand. In front of everyone, she slapped him across the face, her voice icy: “Don’t you dare humiliate him, understand?” After leaving the company, my phone received a text from Sophia. 【The specialists I hired have arrived. I’ll have them go to Auntie’s hospital room now.】 【Tonight, let’s go see Auntie together.】 【I’m craving your cooking.】 I smiled, a sudden bitterness welling up. Sophia, goodbye. I took all my luggage and headed to the airport. As I was about to board the plane, Sophia’s messages popped up frantically. 【Liam, the specialists went to the hospital. Why isn’t Auntie there?】 【Liam, where on earth did Auntie go!?】 【Mom, she really…】 4 The phone rang incessantly. I watched the name “Sophia” flash repeatedly on the screen but never pressed the answer key. On the screen were the messages she had tirelessly sent, one after another, anxiously asking about Mom’s whereabouts, asking where she had gone, and asking where I had gone, why I wasn’t answering the phone. Reading the messages, my fingers trembled slightly, a mix of emotions churning within me. She finally remembered to care about Mom and me, but for me, none of it mattered anymore. I looked at the flashing name on my phone screen and finally turned it off. I had been gone from my job for a while now. These past few days, I had cut off all contact with the outside world, all sounds, hiding myself in a corner of this city. Since Mom passed away, I hadn’t rested properly for a long time. I felt so tired, my eyelids too heavy to lift, just wanting to sleep. I tried to clear my thoughts, to find a path to start over, but reality was like an airtight net, binding me tightly, suffocating me. Sophia, that name was once the most beautiful thing in my life, now it had become my deepest nightmare. I never imagined that the person I had loved for so long, the person I had given so much for, had been plotting a huge deception from the very beginning of our relationship. I met Sophia when we were both starting out. She was full of ambition, just launching her business, and I was just a recent college graduate, full of dreams and aspirations for the future. I gave everything I had for her. But I never expected that she had never trusted me, that she had been testing me all these years. All for nothing, I and Mom scrimped and saved to pay her debts, only to end up like this. My tears had nearly run dry. I once thought we would walk this path together forever, but now, I realized how terribly wrong I was. Sophia was always busy. I used to think her busyness was all for our future, so even if I didn’t see her for long periods, I never minded. Until that day I overheard her conversation with Dylan. This world is too ridiculous, isn’t it? More than her deception, I almost wished our relationship had died in a blaze of outright betrayal. But facts don’t change with my feelings. I truly couldn’t accept it. Therefore, in the end, I still chose to leave, chose to withdraw from this world full of lies and betrayal. I submitted my resignation, without telling anyone, including Sophia. I just wanted to escape, to escape this heartbreaking place, and this man who caused me so much pain. * (Self-correction in original text seems to be a gender mix-up, should be “woman” or “person”)* But what I didn’t know was that in the days I was gone, other places were also experiencing the storms Sophia brought. Unable to find me, Sophia started asking people at the company about me. And the first person she approached was the company’s Vice President, the one in charge of important personnel changes. I had been deliberately discreet about my resignation; the VP didn’t know I was doing all this behind Sophia’s back. So when Sophia came looking, she was terrified, speaking very cautiously, afraid of angering Sophia. “Ms. Sterling, Liam Evans has already resigned. Didn’t you have other arrangements for him?” “What?” Sophia’s voice instantly rose, filled with shock and disbelief: “He resigned? When did he resign? Why didn’t I know?” 5 Under Sophia’s intense questioning, the VP had no choice but to slowly explain: “Three days ago, Mr. Evans suddenly submitted his resignation, saying he was going back to his hometown. I thought it was your instruction.” Everyone at the company thought Sophia and I were a couple. They were very polite to me, the man soon to be the CEO’s husband, and wouldn’t hinder anything I wanted to do. Before Sophia could say anything, someone spoke from the side. “Going back to his hometown? Hmph, he sure ran fast!” Dylan’s voice suddenly interjected, tinged with a hint of triumph and disdain. “What are you doing here?” Sophia frowned, seemingly not wanting Dylan to know too much. “What? Afraid I’ll interrupt your reunion with your lover?” Dylan’s tone was sharp, thick with jealousy. “Don’t talk nonsense. Are you here for something? If not, leave quickly. Don’t disturb my work!” Hearing Sophia’s words, Dylan was about to flare up,

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At the corporate gala, Ryan Albright’s assistant, without any sense of propriety, splashed a glass of wine on an investor and then publicly berated him. To retaliate, the investor demanded Vanessa personally atone for it, or he would withdraw his investment. To ensure the company’s successful public listing, Ryan handed me a drink that he’d spiked, then pushed me forward to smooth things over. He looked at me, his eyes filled with a struggling reluctance. “Vanessa is different from you. She just graduated; she’s pure and innocent.” “Daisy, don’t struggle. I will compensate you once the company successfully goes public.” When I fully came to, I looked at the man across from me, my voice hoarse: “The agreement you mentioned, I’ll sign it.” 1 Arthur Grant closed the file in his hands, adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses, and cast a dismissive glance my way, a faint smile playing on his lips. “Then I wish us a pleasant partnership, Ms. Albright.” I looked at his polished, urbane demeanor, my face pale as I recalled the scene from last night. When the smarmy investor had slung his arm around me, ushering me towards a private room, the elevator doors chimed open. Arthur Grant stood perfectly straight inside, like a divine apparition. Seeing the elevator about to close, I immediately cried out to him for help. The man was then viciously beaten to the ground, his gruesome, blood-soaked image still vivid in my mind. I swallowed hard, unsure if my choice was truly the right one. Pushing down my apprehension, I managed to say to him: “Pleasant partnership.” As I gathered my things and left the hotel, I ran straight into Ryan Albright and Vanessa in the lobby. He had his arm intimately around Vanessa. Upon seeing me, Ryan awkwardly released her. Vanessa, however, excitedly rushed forward, feigning concern, her face a mask of gratitude, but her eyes were full of defiance. “Daisy, are you feeling okay?” “Did that old man… hurt you? I’m so sorry, it’s all my fault for being so foolish. If I had known, I would have just put up with his harassment, and you wouldn’t have been… ruined.” The crowd, catching wind of the gossip, fell silent for a moment, secretly scrutinizing me, their gazes a mix of disdain and pity. Ryan, hearing Vanessa’s words, a subtle flicker of disgust crossed his face. He pulled Vanessa back to his side, reprimanding her. “Put up with what?!” “A woman’s self-preservation is paramount.” Watching him ignore me, a wave of bitterness involuntarily washed over my heart. I stepped forward, looking at him through tear-filled eyes. “Ryan, nothing happened last night.” “Do you believe me?” Ryan’s expression froze for a second, a flicker of emotion in his eyes. Vanessa tugged at his sleeve, her red lips pouted, and she said, sounding troubled: “But Mr. Sterling said he’d withdraw his investment if we didn’t make amends to him, and this morning he called Ryan to say the partnership was continuing.” “I know every woman would choose to run from something like this, unable to accept reality.” “But, Daisy, you can’t lie just to save face!” Hearing that, I clenched my fists, glaring at her with resentment. “You shut your mouth!” Last night, as I was shivering and dazed in an ice-cold bath, Arthur Grant pulled me out, dragged me to the wall, and forced me to listen with my ear pressed against it. On the other side of the thin wall, they were popping champagne, celebrating loudly, preemptively toasting to the company’s certain public listing once this deal was secured. Ryan looked at me with displeasure, faulting me for yelling at his young assistant. “Why are you yelling at her? What did she say that was wrong?” I stared at the man before me, tears gradually welling in my eyes. It seemed my uncharacteristic reaction startled Ryan. He uncharacteristically stepped forward, put his arm around my shoulder, and whispered coaxingly: “Daisy.” “You have to believe your sacrifice is valuable. Once the company goes public, I will truly compensate you.” Seeing that I remained silent, impatience gradually showed in his eyes. His tone hardened, and he grudgingly said: “Don’t you just want to marry me?” “I promise you, as soon as the company goes public, we’ll have our wedding.” “Is that enough?!” Looking at his impatient expression, a wave of self-mockery washed over me. Daisy, this is the man you tirelessly pursued, burning everything to stand by his side. The thought of spending my entire life with him had now utterly vanished. I looked up, held back my tears, and looked at him, saying firmly: “No, I don’t want to marry you anymore.” At my words, Vanessa’s face bore a sneer of triumph, and she immediately cheered: “That’s great! You’re not good enough for Ryan anyway!” But Ryan’s face abruptly darkened, his gaze heavy and fixed on me. He said nothing, trying to force my compliance with his silence. In the past, whenever his face fell silent like that, I would immediately apologize and try everything to appease him. But this time, I didn’t avert his gaze. Each word clear and deliberate for him to hear: “Ryan Albright, I’m serious.” “I.” “Don’t want to marry you anymore.” “This relationship ends here.” “Daisy!” He roared my name. I remained unmoving. After a tense staredown, he sneered. “I’ll wait for the day you regret this.” With that, he abandoned me there, pulling Vanessa away. 2 That evening, as I packed my belongings in my apartment, my phone chimed, signaling a new post from a special contact. I opened TikTok and saw a video of Ryan Albright and Vanessa. They were kissing by the ocean, beneath a spectacular fireworks display. Watching the scene, memories washed over me like a tide. When our love was at its peak, he promised to give me the most romantic fireworks show, proposing to me beneath them. I put my phone away. My packed bags and boxes made my heart feel empty. I always thought I’d spend my entire life with Ryan, and I’d bought so many things to decorate my dream home. But leaving, it turned out, wasn’t as hard as I’d imagined. After sending my luggage away, I went straight back to the office. Walking into my office, I found my belongings scattered haphazardly in a corner. The entire room had been redecorated in pink. I looked outside my door. My colleagues avoided my gaze, pretending to be busy with their tasks, heads down and silent, until an imperious voice broke the quiet. “Quick! Throw that table out too! It’s hideous!” “What outdated taste?!” Vanessa walked in, looking triumphantly at me. “Oh, I’m so sorry, but Ryan said this office is mine starting today.” “I saw you hadn’t come in, so I just… tidied your things up a bit.” “Old woman, you’re not mad, are you?” I merely glanced at her, ignoring her, and instead crouched down in the corner, searching for a trophy that was very important to me, but I couldn’t find it anywhere. I looked up, fixing my gaze on Vanessa. “Where did you hide my trophy?” Vanessa pulled out a cylindrical glass trophy from her desk. “Are you talking about this cheap trinket?” I extended my hand towards her. “Give it back.” She looked at me, her eyes filled with malice, her red lips curling scornfully. I had a bad feeling, and I was about to snatch the trophy from her. The next moment, the trophy was violently smashed onto the floor. I froze, staring at the glass shards on the ground. The rage I had suppressed for so long finally erupted, and I shoved her away. “What the hell gives you the right to smash it?!” This trophy was the first National Innovation Award I’d won in college. It was thanks to the success of this project that Ryan Albright’s company was able to get off the ground in its early stages. It was only later, when the company lacked clients, that I abandoned my beloved R&D work and shifted to sales. Since then, the trophy had always sat in the most prominent place, a reminder to myself never to abandon my original aspirations. I had originally planned to ask him to let me step back and return to research and development after we married. I crouched down, picking up the metal base. My name and honors were inscribed on it. Even broken, I would gather the remnants. Behind me, I suddenly heard soft whimpers and Ryan’s enraged voice. “Daisy! What did you do?!” I turned around, my heart pounding. Vanessa flung herself into Ryan’s arms, her face streaming with tears. There was a smear of blood on her elbow, pierced by a shard of glass. “Waaah… it hurts so much, dear Ryan…” Ryan cupped her elbow, tenderly blowing on it, then glared at me, saying angrily: “Daisy, how can you be so vicious? Was your good-girl act all a facade?” “It was my decision to have Vanessa take your place! You don’t have the guts to confront me, so you bully a simple, freshly-graduated girl, taking your anger out on her!” I stood up, looking at them. I thought back. I had indeed pushed Vanessa, but I hadn’t pushed her to the ground. My peripheral vision could still tell if anyone was nearby. “I didn’t do it.” “If you didn’t do it, who did?! Are you going to say you didn’t push her?! Do you think I’m blind?! Still trying to argue when you’re caught red-handed!” The colleagues outside, hearing the commotion, covertly peered in. “Get over here and apologize to Vanessa right now!” “You have no situational awareness whatsoever! How did you ever manage sales all these years?! Your quotas?!” “Was it all by schmoozing clients beyond professional boundaries?!” I clutched the metal base in my hand, the humiliation in my heart surged, and my suppressed indignation uncontrollably spilled out. I was leaving anyway. Better to say my piece now. My eyes blazing with anger, I roared at him: “Ryan Albright, how can you insult me like this? Do you have any conscience left?!” “How much have I sacrificed for this company over the years?! Drinking until my stomach bled! Staying up until dawn to revise proposals! You’re right, you are blind!” “Now you’re not just completely denying all my hard work and achievements! You’re throwing dirt on my name too!” “Who told you this? Vanessa?” “You trust her that much?! You’ve only known her for half a year!” With that, I glared at him. Ryan was speechless for a moment. He hadn’t expected me, usually so compliant, to defy him. His face instantly darkened. He felt utterly humiliated in front of his employees. I didn’t want to deal with them anymore. Just as I was about to leave, Ryan’s hand suddenly grabbed my arm with force. SLAP! A powerful slap landed on my face, and a ringing filled my ears. Everyone froze in shock. “You hurt someone and think you can just run off? There’s no such easy way out in this world!” “Vanessa and I may have only known each other for half a year, but she’s purer and cleaner than you! How could a freshly-graduated person possibly play the games you’ve been navigating in the world of men for years?!” “I trust that she wouldn’t lie to me.” “And right now, she’s injured, while you stand there unharmed!” I clutched my face, staring at him in disbelief, a wave of bitterness washing over me. Even in our worst arguments before, he had never laid a hand on me. Today, for Vanessa, he broke that rule. There is no greater sorrow than a dead heart. Everything I wanted to say was trapped in my throat. At this point, I no longer wanted to argue. “Dear Ryan, please don’t argue with Daisy over me.” At that moment, Vanessa, who had been feigning fragility in Ryan’s arms, let out a soft, sobbing whimper. “My wrist hurts so much.” Ryan frantically scooped her up. As he left, he glanced at me, issuing three commands. “I’m transferring you to Maplewood County.” “You can come back when you’ve reflected enough.” “Pack your things and get out.” 3 Just as I checked out of the hotel, Mrs. Albright, Ryan’s mother, suddenly contacted me. She was one of the few people here who truly cared for me. “Sweetheart, did you and Ryan have a fight?” “I went to the company yesterday, didn’t see you, and Mikey told me you were transferred to Maplewood County. Tell your Auntie what Ryan did wrong, and I’ll make him fix it.” I gently moved Mrs. Albright’s hand from mine and said solemnly: “Auntie, Ryan and I have broken up.” “I’m leaving today, and I might not come back.” “Broken up!” Mrs. Albright sat up straight in shock, looking at me with concern. “Did Ryan do something wrong?” … “Is it that new assistant he hired?” A flicker of sadness crossed my eyes. “Ryan and I have already cleared things up. Thank you for all your care before.” “My flight is this afternoon, and time is running out, so I won’t bother you any longer.” I stood up, grabbed my suitcase, and prepared to leave. Mrs. Albright stopped me, clutching my luggage, refusing to let go. “Sweetheart, listen to Auntie. Men will be men; they all stray sometimes. He just made a mistake any man would make.” “Believe me, as long as you marry Ryan, with me backing you up, those little home-wreckers outside won’t shake your position one bit! I only recognize you as a part of the Albright family!” Just then, a sound came from the doorway. I turned to look, and it was Ryan. Mrs. Albright happily went to meet him. “Sweetheart, look, Ryan’s back! He still cares about you very much. Hurry and clear up this misunderstanding, and you can get married next month.” Ryan’s face abruptly darkened when he heard the word “married.” He stormed towards me with an air of fury. “Daisy! Who gave you the nerve?! You dared to come bother my mother again, making her trick me into coming home?!” “You’re just using my mother’s affection for you, trying to pressure me, aren’t you?” “Didn’t you say you didn’t want to get married when I brought it up before?” As he spoke, a smug expression actually spread across his face, and he looked at me triumphantly. “Regretting it now, aren’t you?” “I knew you couldn’t let me go, that you didn’t want to go to Maplewood County.” “Just beg me, then get on your knees and apologize to Vanessa, and I’ll keep you at the company. How about it?” “As for marriage, since you missed one chance, we’ll see about your performance next time.” Mrs. Albright frowned, immediately sensing something was wrong. She patted Ryan’s arm and said: “How can you talk like that?” “Daisy didn’t seek me out; I sought her out.” “You better promise Daisy you’ll fire that little home-wrecker and never contact her again!” Ryan scoffed. “Well, isn’t this something, Daisy. You’re quite popular with older people, both men and women. You’ve got my mom completely charmed, making her listen to your every word.” I looked at the mother and son, and the last shred of goodwill I had completely vanished. I went along with his words. “Fine. As long as you fire Vanessa and get on your knees to apologize to me, I’ll marry you immediately.” Ryan was taken aback, an “I knew it” expression spreading across his face. “You wish.” Just then, his phone suddenly rang, its distinct ringtone echoing through the room. I remembered. So many times before, when that ringtone sounded, he would avoid me to answer the call. “Hello, Vanessa, what’s wrong?” My dead heart still felt a momentary prick of pain, like a needle. So they had been having an affair all along. “Okay, wait right there for me. I’ll be right there.” Mrs. Albright grabbed his sleeve. “No! You’re not going anywhere today! Apologize properly to Sweetheart! I want Daisy as my daughter-in-law!” “I want a daughter-in-law! I want grandchildren!” Ryan impatiently glared at me. “Mom, stop messing around.” With that, he pushed his mother aside and left without looking back. Mrs. Albright clutched her bruised waist, staring in shock at the empty doorway, slapping her thigh and wailing: “What a disgrace to the family! My son’s forsaking a woman of good fortune to marry a troublemaker!” Then she looked at me, saying pitifully: “Sweetheart, please take Auntie to the hospital. Auntie will definitely make Ryan come to his senses.” I frowned, glancing at my watch. Time was already short. I refused: “I’ll call an ambulance for you.” “Goodbye.” As I left, I heard a chorus of wails and cries from behind me. By the time I boarded my plane, news of Arthur Grant and the Grant family heiress’s engagement had already dominated trending topics. The accompanying photo was a candid shot of Arthur Grant and me at the reception. And my fiancé by contract was already waiting for me at the airport.

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I deliberately leaked my whereabouts, ensuring Brooke Harrison would witness me surrounded by women in the private room. She burst in, consumed by fury, demanding to know why I was being intimate with other women. I pretended not to hear, raising my glass to clink with the girl beside me and drink. As her fiancé, I had been by her side for eight long years, from nothing to building Harrison Corp. through sheer grit, drinking myself to early-stage stomach cancer at countless client dinners. I had single-handedly propelled the corporation to become a national leader, yet now she intended to marry a fresh-faced college graduate. The company’s senior executives were baffled, many voicing their indignation for me: “Assistant Miller has been with you for eight years, fighting tooth and nail. Without him, the company wouldn’t be where it is today. How can you favor this new intern?” But she nestled into Kyle Peterson’s embrace, her eyes filled with tender pity as she looked at him: “Ryan Miller has been scrambling in the business world for so many years; his heart is no longer pure. Not like Kyle; he hasn’t been corrupted by society.” “But what if Assistant Miller finds out and turns against you?” Brooke scoffed, playing with the engagement ring on her finger: “My corporation is a national leader now. One Ryan Miller gone? There are thousands more where he came from. He’s not indispensable!” Little did she know, I had already witnessed it all from just outside the conference room door. I tossed the breakfast I’d prepared for her to a stray dog on the street, then turned and called the CEO of a rival company: “I accept your offer. You name the price, but I have one condition—I want Harrison Corp. to go down.” … I was stuffing my stomach cancer diagnosis into my suitcase when a message from Brooke popped up: “Next quarter’s budget is shrinking. Transfer your mom out of the private care facility.” I stared at the screen, my chest tightening, making it hard to breathe. Just yesterday, she’d proudly posted a picture of the limited-edition sports car she’d bought for Kyle on social media; its retail price alone was enough to keep my mother in that facility for ten years. “Understood.” I replied curtly. “And drop off the keys to your waterfront penthouse. Kyle says he wants to throw a bachelor party there.” I pressed a hand to my stomach, where a dull ache throbbed. Drawers overflowed with eight years’ worth of stomach medication, all earned only for her to ask me to personally clear out my home for my rival. “I don’t agree.” My lips twisted as I sent a voice message, my voice hoarse, too drained to type. “Ryan Miller, don’t give me that attitude! The company isn’t a charity! I don’t pay you to be insolent!” Immediately after, she sent a transfer record: “This month’s salary will be docked by twenty thousand. Consider it a wedding gift for Kyle.” Five minutes later, another message appeared in the chat box, this time a slightly awkward voice message: “My tone was a bit harsh just now.” “Seven PM tonight, that Michelin restaurant on Maplewood Street. I’ve asked the chef to save their signature lobster. Finish eating, then handle the care facility situation.” I stared at the message, my throat tight. She used to secretly slip strawberry milk into my backpack after she lost her temper. Now, even her apologies sounded like commands. My fingers hovered over the keyboard for a long time, eventually only sending an “Okay.” In the Michelin restaurant that evening, I stared blankly at the cold French lobster. The seventh time the hot dish was brought to the table, the private room door was pushed open. She rushed in, trying to sit down, and just as she began, “I…”, her phone rang. Kyle’s tearful voice came through the speakerphone: “Brooke, I’m so scared. It’s thundering outside…” Brooke’s face instantly changed. She grabbed her bag and hurried out, tripping over the tablecloth as she passed me. “Wait.” I wanted to tell her to eat before she left, perhaps this would be our last meal. “This dinner…” “Pay for it yourself!” She frowned, shaking off my hand. “Don’t bother me with trivial matters like this again. If anything happens to Kyle, I’m coming for you.” The door slammed shut with a heavy thud. Not long after, a photo popped up in Kyle’s chat. He had Brooke pressed against the sports car door, kissing her, the brand-new wedding ring on his ring finger glaringly bright. I stood on the rooftop where we used to have our dates, clutching the diagnosis in my hand. A light rain began to fall. I pulled out my phone and dialed Chloe Davis’s number: “Ms. Davis,” I gazed at the neon lights of Harrison Corp. Tower in the distance, a familiar burning pain in my stomach. “I have complete backups of Harrison Corp.’s overseas money laundering records.” A new message illuminated my screen: “Are you sure you want to do this? Harrison Corp. is your life’s work.” I thought of that snowy night eight years ago, Brooke, covered in blood, kneeling before me, crying, “Ryan, only you can save me.” Now, she stood atop the peak, stepping on my shoulders, yet she found my blood-stained hands too dirty for her wedding dress. “Confirmed.” I pressed send, watching the diagnosis soak in the rain, then dragged Brooke’s number into my blacklist—this time, it was time to settle the score. After conveying the information to Chloe, I picked up my mother from the care facility and took her to my waterfront penthouse. Mom’s hand gently tugged at my sleeve, her aged, trembling fingers covered in liver spots: “Ryan, listen to your mother, don’t argue with Brooke.” She sat in her wheelchair, her cloudy eyes full of worry. “She’s helped us so much over the years. Even if there are disagreements, just take a step back…” “Mom, don’t worry about it.” Mom didn’t know about Brooke and Kyle; she just thought we were a young couple having a fight. My phone vibrated suddenly on the coffee table. It was a message from Brooke: “The keys to the waterfront penthouse must be handed over tomorrow. Kyle wants to decorate the wedding suite early.” My knuckles, clutching the fruit knife, turned white. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Mom secretly tucking her blood pressure medication into her sleeve. Eight years ago, when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, she also tried to hide her diagnosis from me for three months, afraid I’d worry. “Mom, I’m going out to buy something.” I patted her head, trying to make my voice sound light. I went to the hospital to get some medicine. Before I even reached home, I heard a commotion inside. The moment I pushed open the door, a cloud of cigarette smoke assailed me. Kyle Peterson had his feet propped on the coffee table, the new blanket I bought for my mother discarded on the floor as a footrest. Mom’s wheelchair was overturned in the corner. She was on her knees, picking up scattered medicine bottles, her white hair disheveled around her face. “What are you doing?!” My eyes burned red. I rushed to help my mother. Kyle slowly flicked his cigarette ash. “Brooke said this place is mine now. The old woman was clinging to the place, so I had to show her who’s boss.” The bodyguard behind him suddenly kicked the wheelchair, and I fell heavily onto the tiles, my forehead hitting the floor with a painful thud. I got up and slapped Kyle hard, but to my surprise, he didn’t resist, just crumpled to the floor. I was still confused when Brooke rushed in right behind him. “Ryan Miller! What the hell is wrong with you?!” She turned to Kyle. “Baby, are you hurt?” Her tone was gentle and concerned, something I hadn’t heard in a long time. “He pushed my mom!” I took a deep breath, looking at Brooke. Seeing Brooke, Kyle’s eyes immediately reddened. “Brooke, your mom insisted on staying here; she wouldn’t listen to anything I said…” His voice had just the right amount of a sob, and he turned to glare at my mother, who was cowering in her wheelchair. “Ma’am, you’re making things so difficult for Brooke, you know?” Mom clutched her torn scarf, stammering an explanation: “I, I just wanted to wait for Ryan to come back…” “Playing innocent, are we?” I rushed to grab Kyle, but he gripped my wrist in return. “Ryan, don’t be angry, if you don’t want me in the apartment, I’ll leave right now…” He deliberately stumbled towards the coffee table, knocking over a bottle of red wine that splashed precisely onto Mom’s leg. “You!” I was about to charge forward but was shoved away by Brooke. “It’s just an apartment. Do you have to attack Kyle over it?” I pulled out the property deed and roared, “Now, get out, immediately!” Kyle suddenly buckled at the knees, collapsing onto the floor in front of Brooke. “Ryan, I was thoughtless! I don’t want the apartment. Please don’t involve Brooke!” As he spoke, he raised his hand and slapped himself hard across the face. Before I could react, Brooke slapped me. “Ryan Miller! Who are you trying to intimidate?!” She rushed forward, shielding Kyle behind her. “It’s just an apartment. Do you have to drive him to his death to be satisfied?” The agonizing pain in my stomach made my vision blur. I stumbled, leaning on the wall to keep from falling. Kyle took the opportunity to throw himself into Brooke’s arms, his tear-streaked face rubbing against her jacket: “Brooke, don’t be angry. It’s my fault for being useless, I shouldn’t have put Ryan in such a difficult position… I even wanted Ryan to be my best man. But it looks like he won’t…” “Enough!” I clenched my fists, my knuckles white from the strain. “Eight years ago, when you knelt in the rain begging me to save Harrison Corp., why didn’t you say that?” A flicker of panic crossed Brooke’s eyes, then she lifted her chin. “Eight years ago was eight years ago. Harrison Corp. can run just fine without you now. You will be my best man next week at the wedding.” She intimately stroked Kyle’s flushed cheek. “Kyle, don’t feel bad. After the wedding, I’ll buy you an even bigger place downtown.” Kyle bit his lower lip, tears still clinging to his eyelashes: “But Ryan seems really angry… I, maybe I shouldn’t have a wedding…” Brooke frowned. “What right does Ryan Miller have to disagree? Kyle, rest assured, the apartment is yours, and the wedding is yours too.” I slammed the red wine bottle onto the floor. “The hell I disagree! Nobody is touching this apartment, not an inch!” I pulled out my phone. “I’ve already called the police for trespassing. If you don’t want to go to jail, get out.” The sound of approaching sirens grew louder. Brooke’s face was grim. She pulled Kyle and left. My mom, nearby, seemed to understand what was happening, tears streaming down her face. I collapsed onto the sofa. My phone pinged. Chloe Davis had sent a message. I was a little surprised; why would she suddenly message me? I stared at her message for a few seconds, stunned. “I’ve made arrangements for your mother. The Serenity Falls Private Care Facility in Westview. 24-hour nursing, the medical team was flown in from Switzerland.” Before I could reply, a transfer notification followed, the amount enough to cover Mom’s care for ten years. “I know you’re worried. Real-time monitoring and medical records will be synced to your phone.” “Also, your apartment is in an excellent location. I’ll have someone help you clean it up later.” I replied with a “Thank you,” but I didn’t let Chloe clean the apartment for me. I still felt a bit awkward. Soon after, a butler delivered a box. Inside, besides the care facility’s access card, was a miniature control device. A note was attached: “For any assistance, press the emergency contact button anytime.” My mom was taken away, and I sat on the sofa, lighting a cigarette. Suddenly, a frantic knocking came from the door. Through the peephole, I saw Brooke Harrison with two cleaners outside. “Ryan, I was too impulsive just now. My words were out of line. I’m here to apologize to you and your mom.” Her eyes were earnest, a complete change from her earlier arrogance. “You must be swamped. I brought people to help you tidy up the apartment.” I hesitated for a moment, then finally stepped aside. Watching them begin to organize items, I turned and discreetly hid the miniature camera in a picture frame in the bedroom. That night, I checked the surveillance feed and saw Brooke bring Kyle into my bedroom. Kyle had Brooke pressed against the wall. He sneered, “Ryan Miller really thinks you’ve changed your tune?” Brooke yanked open his collar, her eyes filled with contempt: “Idiots are easy to fool. Once I’ve stripped him of his power in the company, what can he do against me?” “I just worry he has something else up his sleeve.” Kyle’s hand roamed restlessly. “What if that evidence…” “What storm could it possibly stir up?” Brooke wrapped her legs around Kyle’s waist. “The company’s lifeline is in my hands. He’s just a stray dog.” The sound of tearing fabric ripped through the air, and they tumbled onto the bed. A piercing pain shot through my stomach. All these years, I had fought for her, drinking until my stomach bled during client meetings, revising proposals through the night until dawn. But her? She used me as a stepping stone, discarded me when she was done, and then stomped on me. “Once we’ve taken care of him, this apartment will be ours.” Kyle’s voice mingled with gasps. Brooke purred, “Naughty boy, let’s take care of business first…” Watching the sordid scene, I smiled bitterly. Turns out, in her eyes, I was always just a tool. I sat in the old apartment, sleepless through the night. The day before the wedding, Brooke’s text message lit up my phone screen: “There’s something I want to say in person. Meet me at our usual spot.” I stepped out the door, thought better of it, and tucked the device Chloe had given me into my pocket. When I arrived, the spot was empty. I wanted to go back, but then a sweet scent enveloped me, and I passed out. When my consciousness returned, the damp, musty smell filled my nostrils. I was chained to the basement wall. The iron door creaked open, and Kyle, dressed in a crisp suit, walked in. “Tsk, tsk, tsk… Assistant Miller, look at you now.” He crouched down, his fingertips lifting my chin. “A stray dog…!” A fist suddenly slammed into my stomach. The dull pain, compounded by my existing injuries, made me curl up into a fetal position. “Brooke said she’d take care of you after the wedding.” He loosened his tie, a triumphant grin on his face, then slapped me across the face. “If you’re smart, just die early. Let me tell you, Brooke only loves me.” Kyle stood up and left. My stomach began to spasm violently, cold sweat poured down my back, and my consciousness began to fade. The chains grated against the wall, and the faint, muffled sounds of wedding laughter drifted from a distance. Suddenly, the miniature device fell out of my pants pocket. I fumbled for the device, my thumb almost too weak to press the raised button. Cold sweat soaked my back. From a distance, I heard Brooke’s voice taking her vows at the wedding: “I do—” My fingertips finally touched the emergency contact button. In the last moment before my consciousness completely vanished, I used every ounce of my strength to press the button. Later, I felt several presences around me. Among them, I heard Chloe Davis’s voice; she seemed angry. A faint, crisp scent lingered in the air. At the same time, at the wedding venue, Brooke suddenly clutched her chest, her face instantly turning ashen. Kyle noticed, asking softly, “Brooke, what’s wrong?” She forced a smile, but her gaze involuntarily drifted towards the chapel doors. A chilling premonition washed over her. On a whim, she called her assistant: “Go check the basement. Make sure Ryan Miller is still there…” “No need!” Kyle suddenly grabbed her wrist, cold sweat beading on his forehead. He was afraid Brooke would see my injuries. “Why bother with someone like him? The wedding’s about to start!” Brooke’s eyes narrowed, scrutinizing Kyle’s agitated expression. She subtly pulled her hand back, and when no one was looking, instructed her assistant: “Go yourself. Don’t alarm anyone else.” Twenty minutes later, the assistant burst into the wedding venue, her face ashen. “Ms. Harrison! Something’s happened!” “Ryan Miller is gone!” The sharp sound of a champagne flute shattering on the floor echoed through the ballroom. Brooke’s face went white. She lunged forward. “What did you say? Ryan Miller is gone?”

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Stepping back into the familiar operating room, I knew Dr. James Carter was about to make a fatal error, yet I chose to watch, cold and detached. In my past life, it was James’s mistake that left the patient teetering on the brink of death. I rushed to the table and saved the patient, whose chest lay open. But afterwards, my wife, Katherine Hayes, fabricated evidence and sent me to prison. I confronted her, incredulous, but she merely looked contrite and said, “James is an international colleague; he can’t be implicated! Once this blows over, our lives will go back to normal.” Ultimately, I was killed by the patient’s family, reborn consumed by hatred. This time, I wanted to see how Katherine Hayes would handle it! But then, she suddenly turned to me, her voice trembling yet firm: “Daniel Thorne! The patient’s condition is critical! James can’t control it! You take over!” … 1 “Don’t you understand? The patient is fading fast!” Katherine’s voice abruptly rose, her eyes wide with terror. “Please, darling… this surgery is a turning point in my career. It can’t go wrong!” She clutched my hand tightly, her tone shifting from command to desperate plea. On the operating table, the patient’s chest lay wide open, blood gushing out. The monitor’s readings plummeted, life draining away. “You’re the most skilled surgeon in the entire hospital! Only you can salvage this!” I shook off her hand, a cold sneer playing on my lips. “I’m just an assistant. I don’t know James’s specific technique. And with millions of people watching nationwide, I’m not capable of stepping in at the last minute!” Katherine’s eyes instantly filled with panic. “Didn’t James claim he was experienced?” “Or are you saying you put him in charge, knowing he wasn’t competent, to boost your reputation, playing with a patient’s life?” Katherine’s face turned stark white. “Now is not the time for assigning blame!” her voice trembled. “The patient’s chest is already open. The family is waiting outside…” “This surgery is a key publicity event for the hospital. It affects the future of the entire department!” James stood by, flustered, constantly glancing at Katherine. I remembered the past life at this very moment. I had stepped in, saved the patient’s life, but James’s mistake had left the patient paralyzed. When the family stormed the hospital, Katherine, tears streaming, had handed me a confession: “Daniel, for our future…” I, naive, signed that life-destroying document. My license was revoked, I was subjected to national online slander, the hospital cast me aside like trash, Katherine filed for divorce and took all our assets. Most tragically, the paralyzed patient’s family found me: “You incompetent doctor, you ruined my son! I want your life!” Before I died, I learned my father had a heart attack from the shock and passed away, while Katherine and her lover gained fame and fortune. Back in reality, Katherine was still pleading: “Darling, for the sake of our marriage…” James had caused too much trouble. Even she found it hard to escape responsibility. I smirked inwardly: You reap what you sow. I stepped back, yielding my position in front of the operating table. The patient’s vital signs plummeted. James stood by, helpless, muttering “Damn it.” Ultimately, the patient died on the operating table. Katherine’s face was ashen. Vice President Davis walked into the operating room, his gaze glacial: “Chief Hayes, what happened?” Katherine pulled off her gloves, feigning composure: “The patient suffered unforeseen complications, leading to…” Heart-wrenching cries echoed from the corridor. The patient’s family had received the tragic news. “Ah! You butchers killed my father!” A young girl was restrained by security at the door. James produced a folded paper: “This is standard operating procedure. I followed the protocol precisely.” Davis took the document, his brows furrowed: “A resident as lead surgeon? This surgery shouldn’t have been your responsibility.” “James is very experienced. I trust him completely.” Katherine straightened her back. “Dr. Carter, please explain the cause of death.” Davis turned to James. James bit his lip: “The situation was complex after opening the chest, but within controllable limits.” “Specifically, what caused the death?” “It might be… his pre-existing heart condition.” Dr. Evans, the anesthesiologist, scoffed: “Pre-operative assessments showed the patient’s cardiac function was normal, perfectly sufficient for the surgery.” “What vessel did you sever?” Davis pressed. James’s forehead beaded with sweat: “A routine incision…” “State its specific name.” James’s eyes darted: “I… I need to check the records.” Katherine attempted to interject: “This is a technical issue. We’ll discuss it later.” Davis remained unmoved: “As lead surgeon, the most basic anatomical structures should be ingrained in your mind.” James retreated, hiding behind Katherine. The atmosphere in the operating room solidified. Nurses lowered their heads, organizing instruments, their eyes filled with disdain. “I saw him sever a branch of the coronary artery, completely against protocol,” a junior doctor whispered. “I heard Chief Hayes specifically authorized him to lead, even knowing his skill wasn’t up to par…” “It’s just leveraging his international status to boost the department’s global exchange points. Who knew it would lead to reckless disregard for human life?” Katherine scanned her surroundings. Her colleagues, who usually flocked to her, now deliberately kept their distance. Only James cowered behind her, like a frightened child. She anxiously searched for Daniel Thorne. I stood in the corner, watching everything with an impassive face. Katherine’s gaze locked onto me, her expression complex, a mix of plea and command. Step forward. Take responsibility. she mouthed. I ignored Katherine, exiting the operating room through a side door. Walking out the main hospital entrance, my phone vibrated. A news alert popped up: “Major Medical Malpractice Incident at City General Hospital; Patient Dies on Operating Table.” I immediately dialed my private banker, Ms. Lee. “Ms. Lee, I need to freeze all assets, including joint accounts and property shares.” “Dr. Thorne, this is a large transaction. It requires…” “Execute it immediately. Emergency situation.” My voice was cold and firm. “Transfer all liquid funds to my father’s independent account.” Then I contacted the only person from my past life who had believed me. My phone rang again. It was Katherine. “Darling, where are you?” Her voice was clearly tearful. “You have to come back and help me! You’re the only one who can save me! The patient’s family is causing a huge scene. The hospital wants answers from me…” The hospital corridor was eerily quiet. I turned the corner and saw Katherine leaning against the wall, her eyes red and swollen, her fingers tightly clutching a file, knuckles white. “Darling, you’re finally here.” I nodded, subtly touching the button camera concealed in my chest pocket, confirming it was recording. “Katherine, what’s so urgent?” Katherine pulled me into a deserted small conference room, locking the door behind us. “The situation is worse than we thought.” Her voice was trembling uncontrollably as she pulled a document from the file. “Darling, help me. Sign this, saying it was your operational error, and this whole thing can be settled.” I stared at the cover of the document. “Medical Malpractice Confession Agreement” stood out in bold letters. “Katherine, you want me to be your scapegoat?” “It’s not like that, darling.” Katherine squeezed my hand. “I promise I’ll get the best lawyers, and I’ll get a letter of understanding from the patient’s family. You won’t be in any trouble.” She embraced me, her voice softening. “Darling, I know this is asking a lot! But I swear, once this is over, I’ll compensate you tenfold. We’ll have a child and live a good life together.” I picked up the document, flipping through it, saying nothing. Katherine saw I didn’t immediately agree, and her eyes quickly welled up with tears. “Darling, please, only you can save me now!” I paused, then picked up the pen and signed my name on the confession. Katherine immediately breathed a sigh of relief. The tears in her eyes quickly vanished. She neatly put away the document, lightly touching my cheek. “Daniel Thorne, you should rest now. You’ve been through too much these past few days.” With that, she turned and left the room without a second glance. I watched her retreating back, a cold sneer forming in my heart. Katherine Hayes, this time, things won’t go as you wish! Back at home, I took off my coat and hung it up. The living room lights were dim. From the second-floor bedroom, I heard the sound of water and muffled laughter. I frowned, treading lightly upstairs. The moment I pushed open the bedroom door, my breath hitched. Dr. James Carter, the man, was standing there, wearing my wedding suit, adjusting his tie in the mirror. That suit, which I had cherished in my closet, had once been a symbol of my happiness. “Oh, hi!” James turned, a clumsy surprise on his face. “Chinese doctor, you’re back earlier than expected.” Footsteps pounded on the stairs. Katherine frantically appeared in the doorway. “Daniel Thorne, you’re back.” Her eyes darted around, her body instinctively positioning itself between James and me, like a shield. “James needs a safe place to stay lately. The hospital… you know, with what happened, he needs to cooperate with the investigation.” I raised an eyebrow. “So, you invited him to live in our home?” Katherine’s fingers unconsciously twisted together, her gaze briefly flickering away. “He wants a home in America.” Her voice lowered, and she tilted her head slightly to avoid my gaze. “I promised to help him.” With that, she quickly looked up again. I felt a wave of visceral nausea. The familiar feeling of betrayal washed over me again. “What do you mean?” James smugly pulled a document from his suit’s inner pocket and handed it to me. “Dr. Thorne, this is my home now.” I took the document. The property deed indeed listed this address and James’s name. I looked at Katherine, incredulous. “This is the house my parents bought for us as our marital home.” Katherine stepped closer, her hand gently resting on my arm, her eyes filled with feigned apology. “Darling, I know this is sudden for you, but James really needs help. Didn’t you always say we should be compassionate?” Her voice was soft, yet there was no hint of retracting her decision. “Darling, you said you loved me. Truly loving someone means supporting all her decisions.” I subtly reached into my pocket, confirming the recording device was active. Seeing my silence, Katherine moved closer and linked her arm through mine, her voice tinged with a false intimacy. “Daniel, rest assured, you’ve done so much for me. My husband will always be you. That will never change.” Her eyes glittered with self-satisfied confidence. I nodded impassively, feigning acceptance of the reality. The master bedroom had been completely transformed. My belongings were all gone. In their place were James’s luxury items. Even our wedding photo had vanished, replaced by a picture of James and Katherine. Seeing a few pieces of lingerie scattered on the bed and the trash can in the corner overflowing with used tissues, my heart still ached, imperceptibly. I walked out to the yard. In the corner, near the trash can, piles of my clothes, books, and personal effects were strewn. Katherine rushed after me. “Daniel, I didn’t know. James did all this on his own.” “He’s an international colleague, not very familiar with our customs…” I crouched down. From the pile of trash, I picked up a broken music box. It was my mother’s most cherished possession, the only memento left to her by my grandfather. The delicate wooden casing was completely shattered, its internal springs and gears scattered on the ground. My heart felt as if it were being pierced by countless tiny needles. Katherine’s eyes began to redden. “I’m sorry. I can have James put your things back…” I shook my head, forcing myself to remain calm. She instantly relaxed. James swaggered over, apologizing with an exaggerated tone. “Dr. Thorne, I’ve never done this kind of work before. If it’s not done well, I’m sure you won’t mind!” “Look at this pathetic little thing.” James snatched the broken music box contemptuously. “This cheap piece of junk. Only a loser like you would treasure it!” “No wonder your mom died early. She probably couldn’t stand a pauper son like you. Good riddance!” He laughed coldly, then threw the music box to the ground, heavily stomping on it, grinding it a few times. “This is where it belongs—with the trash.” The accumulated grief and humiliation from both my past and present lives erupted at this moment. “You’re dead!” My fist swung out uncontrollably. James crumpled to the ground, blood gushing from his nose. I lunged at him, punching again and again, pouring all my hatred into every blow! “Ah! Help! Someone, help!” Katherine shrieked, her voice shrill, frantically dialing her phone. In less than ten minutes, several burly bodyguards stormed into the yard. They roughly pulled me off James. Katherine’s voice sharpened: “Daniel Thorne, did I give you too much leeway? How dare you hit James!” “Teach him a lesson! A harsh one!” The bodyguards immediately restrained me, punches and kicks raining down. Katherine stood coldly to the side. My wife, who used to cry tears of concern if I even scraped a finger, now watched as if a stray dog were being beaten. James wiped the blood from his mouth and slowly walked over to me. He brutally kicked my ribs. Then, deliberately, he ground his foot onto my hand. Crunch! I heard the sound of my own finger bones shattering. “Katherine Hayes! James Carter!” I gritted their names through my teeth. “Throw him in the cold storage. Let him cool down.” Katherine’s voice was icy as she gave the order, then she turned to James, her face instantly filled with concern. “Darling, are you alright? Come, let me help you get some medicine.” “Katie, it’s just a scratch. It’s nothing.” James leaned weakly on Katherine’s shoulder, a mocking smirk on his face as he looked at me. The bodyguards dragged me like a dead dog and tossed me into the cold storage. My fingers, broken, were useless. My whole body ached with intense pain. The voice recorder in my chest pocket was still intact. I endured the searing pain and activated the recorder. “I, Daniel Thorne, am currently being illegally imprisoned in this cold storage by my wife Katherine Hayes and her lover James Carter. I have sustained multiple severe injuries, including fractured fingers on my right hand…”

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