1 Seven years after Celeste’s supposed death, I stumbled upon her while promoting drinks at a high-end club. The moment she saw me, she instinctively recoiled, ducking behind the bartender as if trying to melt into the shadows. My gaze didn’t linger for a second. I continued to introduce the whiskey in my hand to the customer. When my shift ended, she was blocking the employee exit, her expression a complex palette of emotions, like a spilled paint tray. “Ethan, all these years… how have you been?” I didn’t answer. I just pulled on my food delivery jacket, put on my helmet, and looked down. Suddenly, she grabbed the handlebars of my scooter. “Ethan, I wasn’t dead. Aren’t you even a little surprised?” Of course, I wasn’t surprised. The moment she collaborated with my brother to stage that fake death seven years ago, making a fool of me— She had already died in my heart. … “Daddy! When are you coming home? Lily wants to hear a story!” My daughter’s sweet, childlike voice chirped through the car’s Bluetooth. Celeste let go of the handlebars as if scalded, her face instantly drained of color. I gently reassured Lily, then turned the ignition. But Celeste stopped me again. “Ethan, are you… married? How old is your child?” “Your wife lets you work in a place like this?” I was in a hurry to finish this delivery and get home, so I didn’t bother to explain. Just then, her phone rang, and Celeste answered it reflexively. A gentle male voice came from the other end: “Celeste, did you get the red wine I asked for? Little Alistair is fussing, wanting his mommy to play LEGOs with him.” Celeste frantically lowered the volume, mumbled a few responses, and hung up. When she looked up again, her tone carried a deliberate note of helplessness. “Lucas… your brother, it’s his birthday, and he insisted on that particular wine. I’m allergic to alcohol, but I had to go along with him…” Her voice held a hint of eager probing, as if waiting for me to take her side. I nodded indifferently. “Well, you’re married to him, of course, you have to indulge him.” Celeste frowned, stopping me again. “I’ll cover all your deliveries tonight! Can we talk?” “That debt… it must have been hard for you to pay off all these years, right? I can help—” I finally turned to look at her, my voice calm. “Ms. Thorne, wasn’t that sixteen million dollar debt all thanks to you?” Her face instantly turned ashen. I twisted the throttle, and the electric scooter zipped out of the alley. In the rearview mirror, she stumbled, chasing a few steps in her high heels. I didn’t look back. By the time I finished my last delivery, it was late into the night. Pushing open the door to my rental apartment, Lily rushed into my arms like a little cannonball. “Daddy! I got a perfect score on my math test today!” I laughed, ruffling her hair, but my gaze fell on the glowing screen of the tablet on the coffee table— A news alert showed Celeste, in a designer gown, attending a charity gala. Lily followed my gaze, her small hand gently touching my back. “Daddy… the lady at the convenience store today said,” “I look just like that pretty lady on TV…” She paused, then quickly added, “But I told the lady that my mommy is a star in the sky! I have enough with just you, Daddy!” My nose stung. Seven years ago, Celeste faked her death, leaving me with sixteen million dollars in company debt. I had done everything imaginable over the years. Serving drinks at clubs, hauling bricks at construction sites, even working as a life model. Lily was adopted by me three years ago from an orphanage. She was three then, as thin as a kitten, shrinking into a corner when she saw strangers. At four, she started remembering things. Even though she was still a tiny tot, She would, when I had a fever, wobbly climb onto a stool to pour me hot water. She had never cried for a mother. But I knew she often secretly looked at photos of other children holding their mothers’ hands at night. What she didn’t know was— Her birth mother wasn’t dead. It was Celeste, now a rising business star in the city. I only confirmed it by chance, six months after adopting her, when I saw an old missing person’s notice and privately did a DNA test. But I would never let Celeste know. “Don’t cry, Daddy,” Lily wiped the corner of my eye with her small hand. “Lily’s with you!” “I’m going to eat lots of rice and grow tall quickly! That way, Daddy won’t have to work in the middle of the night!” My heart felt like it was torn open and then stuffed with cotton. It hurt, yet it warmed me, making me tremble. I forced myself to stay awake, helped her finish her homework, and tucked her into bed. Lying beside her, I stared at the ceiling until dawn. 2 The next day, I went to work at the restaurant. At two in the afternoon, my daughter’s teacher called. “Lily’s dad, please come to the school right away! Lily got into a fight with a classmate!” My heart tightened. I asked the manager for leave and rushed to the school. The moment I pushed open the office door, my breathing hitched— Lily’s left cheek was swollen and red, but she was biting her lip, refusing to cry. Only when she saw me did she let out a sob and throw herself into my arms. “Ms. Green, what happened?” I asked the teacher. She looked troubled. “During class today, the financial news was playing, and Lily saw Ms. Thorne’s picture and said she looked like her. And then—” “That’s my mommy! How dare Lily, that stray, pretend to be my mommy!” A girl with pigtails next to her shrieked. At the same time, a commotion came from outside the door. “Who dares bully my daughter?! Wife, Mom, Dad, we need an explanation today!” My blood ran cold. Before I could cover Lily’s face, several startled voices exploded. “Ethan?!” My parents, Celeste, and my brother Lucas. Celeste rushed over, grabbed Lily’s shoulders, and stared at her face for a few seconds, her pupils constricting. “Those eyebrows and eyes… Ethan, is she… the child I lost back then…” My parents and Lucas also froze in place. In the living room of the mansion, I ignored everyone else and applied ointment to Lily’s face. Lily quietly rolled her eyes, assessing them. After a long while, my mom cleared her throat. “Ethan… why haven’t you contacted us all these years? We only found out you weren’t doing well when… Celeste told us.” “Ainsley didn’t mean it. She didn’t know Lily’s background, and she’s your brother’s child. Don’t take it to heart.” “But… what about this child?” No sooner had she spoken than Lucas burst out, his voice choked with tears. “Brother, I know you hate me, hate me for making Celeste fake her death to marry me.” “But I couldn’t help it! I loved her too much…” He grabbed my hand, tears instantly flowing. “And at the time, I didn’t know the cancer diagnosis was a mistake. I just wanted to fulfill a dream.” “By the time the misdiagnosis was confirmed, Celeste and I already had Ainsley.” “That’s right, Ethan,” my dad chimed in. “It’s fate. You and Celeste weren’t meant to be. Don’t blame your brother.” I forced a faint smile. Seven years ago, Celeste told me she was going to discuss funding, and to wait for her. What I waited for was the news of her drowning. The company lost its backbone, all orders fell through. When the sixteen-million-dollar debt crashed down on me, I met Lily, abandoned, at an orphanage. She became my only light in the darkness. I sold the apartment and jewelry Celeste left me, but there was still a three-million-dollar shortfall. To pay off the debt, I took Lily and moved to the city. But in a shopping mall baby store, I saw— Lucas with his arm around Celeste, picking out baby clothes, my parents smiling beside them. “Celeste, do you think my brother will forgive me? Will he blame me for orchestrating your fake death to marry me?” “I know he loved you… but I was the one who fell first!” Celeste then kissed his forehead, her expression solemn. “I left him the company and the apartment. Those years he had me were enough.” “My love can only be for one person, and that’s you.” My parents looked utterly relieved. “Ethan has always been stubborn. He complains we favor his brother and runs so far away. Don’t mind him, he’ll come back when he’s had enough.” Only then did I understand— They would do anything for Lucas. Heartbreak, was merely this. “Finished? I’m leaving.” I took Lily’s hand and turned to walk away. Letting them call my name behind me. On the way, Lily seemed to want to speak but ultimately asked nothing. I knew the peaceful days were over. Sure enough, late that night, I received a text from Lucas. [Ethan, are you a ghost haunting me? Bringing a stray to seduce my woman, have you no shame?] [You couldn’t beat me when we were kids, and don’t even think about it now.] [I’ll show you what happens when you mess with my woman.] I didn’t reply, gently patting Lily’s back to coax her to sleep. Nor did I pay attention to Celeste’s consecutive messages and missed calls. The screen flickered in the darkness. Like that great fire seven years ago that burned everything I had. 3 I still woke at five in the morning to knead dough and steam buns at the breakfast shop. After the morning rush, my phone vibrated in my apron pocket. I thought it was Lily’s teacher, but the screen showed “Mom.” “Ethan,” her voice carried a deliberate softness. “Your brother knows you’ve been struggling and feels so bad he can’t sleep at night.” “After Ainsley hit Lily, he disciplined the child and said he wants you to come home.” “We’ve tidied up the spare bedroom. Why don’t you bring Lily back for a meal?” She paused, a hint of hesitation entering her tone. “Today… is also your brother and Celeste’s seventh wedding anniversary. As his brother, you should come back and wish them well, right?” Lucas couldn’t even wait a few days. I knew exactly what he wanted to do—ruin the life I had just started to build. I hung up and continued to scrub the greasy stovetop. Looking up, I saw Celeste standing at the shop entrance. She wore a cream-colored trench coat, out of place in this small, grease-stained shop. “Ethan,” her eyes were complex. “I’ll drive you.” Lily clutched my hand, looking up at me, then at Celeste. I took a deep breath, suppressing my irritation. My phone rang again. This time it was my dad. “Ethan, I’ve asked Celeste to pick you up.” “You’ve been sulking for seven years, that’s enough. Your brother thinks about you constantly. I don’t ask you to be filial to us,” “But at least give him a way out. What he values most is a reunited family.” I gave a silent, wry smile. If he truly valued reunion, he wouldn’t have conspired with Celeste seven years ago. And I wouldn’t have been made a fool of like a dog. But I still got into Celeste’s car. Some things needed to be said face-to-face. In the car, Celeste kept looking at me through the rearview mirror. The oppressive silence was suffocating, and finally, she spoke. “Ethan, I know you hate me. What happened back then… I was thoughtless.” “I thought you understood how the company worked. I thought those assets would be enough for you to live comfortably…” “It’s been… very hard all these years, hasn’t it? That child, she…” I opened my half-closed eyes, annoyance bubbling up. Any assistant she had now could dig up every detail of my life. Why pretend to care now? Half an hour later, the car stopped outside a hotel banquet hall. Lucas’s events were always lavish. My parents saw me, smiles of relief on their faces, and each grabbed one of my arms. “That’s right! How can brothers hold a grudge? It’s good to have you back!” Their smiles were too wide, so wide they made me uneasy. Lucas walked over with a champagne flute, a flicker of malice in his eyes. “Mom, Dad, I was so happy my brother would come back, I couldn’t sleep last night,” he choked out. “But I also feel guilty…” “If it weren’t for me, my brother might have started his own family long ago. So today, I’ve prepared a big gift for him.” My eyelid twitched. The next second, Lucas announced with a smile. “Ethan, I used your photo to arrange a good match in our circles—Miss Olivia Hayes, the second daughter of the Hayes family!” My blood froze. The Hayes family’s second daughter had severe bipolar disorder and had beaten three previous fiancés to death a few years ago! “Lucas, I’m your own brother!” I roared. Celeste, however, pressed down on my arm. “Ethan, Miss Hayes’s condition is under control now. The Hayes family is willing to offer a six million dollar dowry. You’ll be living a life of luxury if you marry into them.” “The Hayes family business is under a subsidiary of Thorne Corp. I’ll look after you.” “Ethan, stop making a fuss!” My mom frowned. “You’re thirty. And you had that messy past with Celeste. Where will your brother put his face if that gets out? Can’t you think of him for once?” I stared at them intently. The seven-year-old scar on my heart was being torn open. This was the woman I had loved. These were my family. For Lucas, they would push me into a fire pit. “Whoever wants this marriage can have it! It has nothing to do with me!” I grabbed Lily and tried to leave, but Lucas suddenly grabbed my wrist. “Brother, I’m doing this for your own good…” His eyes reddened, but his fingernails dug hard into my flesh. I winced, trying to shake him off, but Lucas fell backward like a leaf! “Ethan, what are you doing!” My dad roared. I hadn’t even used any force! Just as I was about to protest, my mom’s slap came sweeping towards me. I closed my eyes, but the anticipated pain didn’t land. Opening my eyes— My mom’s wrist was firmly seized in mid-air. I turned my head and met a pair of calm eyes. “Excuse me,” the woman’s voice wasn’t loud, but it cut through the din of the entire room. “Who do you intend to marry off my husband and child to?” Lily’s eyes lit up, and she threw herself into her arms. “Mommy!” The room fell into a dead silence. 4 It wasn’t until Lily’s “Mommy!” echoed that I snapped back to reality. “How are you back so early? Didn’t you say the project wouldn’t be finished until next month?” Erica cast a sidelong glance at me, a playful glint in her eyes. “If I hadn’t come back sooner, my husband would have been abducted.” She exchanged a look with Lily in her arms, and a mischievous glint flickered in both their eyes. I suddenly remembered— Lily’s most memorized phone number, besides mine, was Erica’s. That little imp must have secretly “told on me.” “Wait!” Lucas’s face was ashen. He stared at Erica, his voice trembling. “Erica? You and Ethan… know each other?” “And… why are you here?” Erica raised an eyebrow, reaching to pull me behind her. “Since this is a family dinner, we outsiders won’t intrude. Husband, child, let’s go.” She turned to leave, but Lucas staggered after her. “Erica… Erica, do you remember me? We both graduated from Northwood University. We even performed together in the talent show back then…” He gave me an imperceptible glare, then put on a shy expression. “You might not know, my brother here is a bit foolish. He used to bother my wife…” “Erica, you must have been used by him. Listen to me, let me expla—” Erica scoffed, interrupting him. “I remember. Ethan is your biological brother?” “You always took his toys, his scholarship money, even his women. Now you’re slandering him in front of me.” “You Harding family, how interesting.” Those few words drained all color from my parents, Lucas, and Celeste. My mom managed a forced smile. “Ethan… when did you get married? Why didn’t you tell us?” “If you’re living with Miss Hayes, then your mother can rest easy…” Erica finally turned to look at her. “Auntie, seven years ago, when Ethan took on a sixteen million dollar debt for this scoundrel, why didn’t you say you could rest easy?” My mom’s face lost all its color. I lowered my eyes. Erica had an investment company that happened to have business dealings with the Harding family. It was a small project for her, but enough to support the Harding family for a whole year. She had endured a lot for me before. Today, that unspoken understanding was completely shattered. Erica didn’t bother to say more, putting her arm around my shoulder and walking out. “Ethan! You explain to me, why—” Celeste tried to follow but was stopped by Erica’s bodyguard. Her shouts grew fainter in the distance. My steps didn’t falter. The people behind me, who had been so arrogant moments ago, were now silent as mutes. At home, Lily and I took a hot bath. Emerging from the bathroom, my wet hair was gently held up, the warm breeze of the hairdryer caressing the ends. Turning, Erica was looking at me. Her gaze was focused, tinged with concern. “If that little clever Lily hadn’t secretly messaged me, were you going to shoulder it all by yourself again?” “If I hadn’t cut my trip short to rush back this time, would those people have picked your bones clean?” “Ethan, when will you learn to boss me around and rely on me with confidence?” Her tone was calm, but the end of her sentence held a hint of grievance. My chest ached slightly. After the pain, a warm current spread through my limbs. Lily sat on the sofa, holding a cheese stick Erica had given her, her big eyes sparkling as she watched us.

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1 When I learned again that the child my wife carried was conceived with her new lover, I didn’t rage or push for an abortion as before. Instead, I silently supported her pregnancy, ensuring she carried it to term. Soon, I became gossip fodder for the elite circles—every cheating socialite wanted a spouse as “magnanimous” as me, mistresses hoped to ensnare my wife, and rich househusbands called me a disgrace. Ten months later, she gave birth safely. Emerging from the delivery room, Catherine, ever gentle, kissed my hand. “Thanks to you, my child with Liam is healthy and beautiful. Don’t worry—he only wants to be a father, not threaten your place as Davies’ son‑in‑law. You’re still the one I love most.” People said I loved her so blindly I accepted the mistress, but only I knew—this was a child the Davies matriarch forced me to protect, using an old life‑saving debt. With their firstborn now born, the divorce agreement she promised should finally take effect. … The night before Catherine’s delivery, I was given a sufficient dose of tranquilizers and bone-weakening agents to prevent me from harming her or the child. When the medication wore off, I opened my eyes to see her embracing the baby with unbridled joy. “Darling, Grandma has already named our child. Just sign here, and we can register him.” She handed me the birth certificate. Seeing the name “Michael Davies” on it, my foggy mind instantly cleared. Michael. That was the beautiful wish I had for my unborn biological son. It was our hope for our love. It was also the name of the thirteenth generation’s firstborn son in the Davies family tree. Years ago, to save Catherine from kidnappers, I took a knife wound for her, damaging my reproductive function. That part of my life became difficult. Our first IVF child, a boy, was seven months along when Catherine, in an act of misguided compassion, helped a drugged Liam. After a night with him, she suffered a massive hemorrhage, leading to a forced abortion. That was a fully formed boy. I had prepared to give him a symbolic burial, to bring him into our ancestral graveyard. But the fortune teller said the child didn’t count as a full-term stillbirth, the timing was bad, and we had to wait. That wait stretched for over a year. During her pregnancy, she whispered to me countless times that she wanted to give the name “Michael Davies” to this illegitimate child. I always refused. But now, looking at her expectant eyes, I only found her past tears and apologies disgusting. I knew Grandma couldn’t have chosen this name. It was merely Liam, who liked to snatch everything from me, whispering ideas into Catherine’s ear. Anyway, divorce was a certainty. A heartless mother’s surname was not worth having. “Whatever. Call him what you like.” “I only have one request: don’t put my name down as the father. My biological son in heaven would be displeased.” Catherine paused, guilt flickering in her eyes. “Noah, don’t worry, I’m only using him because of his shared bloodline with you. Liam and I…” She didn’t finish speaking when a sudden crash came from outside the door. “You beast, who allowed you to show your face here!” Liam was knocked to the ground, his eyes red. “I just wanted to see the child.” Grandma Davies relentlessly struck him with her cane. “Get out!” In that instant, Catherine was like a startled bird. Disregarding her post-delivery body, she carelessly tossed the baby onto me and rushed out. The hundred-plus needle marks and self-inflicted wounds on my arms, each as thick as a child’s arm, were pressed open. But she left as if she hadn’t even noticed. Her unwavering movement, shielding Liam from the old lady’s cane, made her earlier comforting words seem incredibly ridiculous. “Grandma! It was my idea! I did it for the Davies family! Don’t hurt an innocent person!” Grandma Davies froze, unconsciously looking at me. Seeing the white bandage on my arm soaked with blood, she was angry at her own helplessness. “You wicked child! He was given hundreds of injections just yesterday! Can’t you see all his wounds?” Catherine’s eyes widened with panic and regret. She was about to rush over to me. But Liam suddenly collapsed behind her. She panicked, disregarding my injuries, and helped him up, intending to leave. Grandma Davies fiercely blocked her path. “You’re not leaving! You’re so reckless right after giving birth!” “Your husband is still inside! Do you even want this family anymore!” 2 Catherine’s eyes were filled with hesitation. “Yes! But Liam is hurt from your beating! I can’t just abandon him! Noah… he has you, he’ll be fine!” Once upon a time, she had been just as reckless for me. Once upon a time, she would never have made me the choice to be cast aside. I cast her an indifferent glance. “Grandma, let her go.” She seemed surprised by my magnanimity. After all, in the past, to keep her from leaving, I had thrown tantrums, rolled on the floor, self-harmed, and shed all my masculine dignity. Her expression was complex. She wanted to say something, but ultimately, she left. A nurse helped me re-dress my wounds. The baby was sleeping soundly. My phone suddenly showed a message from her. [I’m sorry. I just didn’t want a scene at the hospital. It would affect the Davies family’s reputation.] [Liam is unconscious and can’t be left alone. I won’t come over for now. I’ll recover with him. Don’t worry.] I stared at the screen, stunned for a long time. I remembered once, when I heard she was injured on a business trip, I took an eleven-hour flight, accompanied her to her check-ups, and stayed by her side every minute. Back then, she was overwhelmingly touched, swearing she would never let me down in this life. Seeing me sigh, Grandma Davies snatched my phone away. She read the cold words on the screen and snorted. “That ungrateful girl! I’ll deal with her when she gets back. Noah, don’t worry, Grandma…” At this, I suddenly laughed, my gaze calm as I looked at her. “You tacitly allowed all of this, didn’t you?” “I no longer care what happens to her. You promised me earlier that you would help me divorce once this child was safely born. I hope you keep your word.” Her expression froze, her eyes filled with deep guilt. “Grandma is sorry.” “I’ve already tricked her into signing the divorce agreement. You rest up well. We’ll leave after she finishes her confinement.” Grandma took the baby with her, arranging for someone to care for him. I, in turn, discreetly returned to my pre-marital residence, avoiding gossip. But that very night, rumors spread throughout the business world about the Davies heiress’s rage for her lover, defying her powerful family to protect her uncle, despite her postpartum state. Davies Group stock continued to fall, leaving Catherine overwhelmed. Liam’s influencer account was swarmed by netizens. The incident where I had personally exposed him for seducing his sister-in-law, which Catherine had suppressed, resurfaced. The platform was full of condemnation. If not for Catherine’s help, his account would likely have been shut down with heavy penalties. The next time I saw her was seven days later. The first thing she did was look at me with disappointment. “Noah Harding, are you happy, seeking revenge on us like this?” I paused, then quickly realized she was blaming me for the spread of the gossip. Of course. After all, I used to work in media. My specialty was fanning the flames. Unfortunately, the first time I went crazy and exposed her affair with Liam, she threatened my company with privacy violations and defamation, forcing them to fire me. Now, it truly wouldn’t be easy to find someone to help. I gave her a sidelong glance, long past the feeling of being wronged when misunderstood. I picked up the anniversary memorial gift for Michael. “You should know, your scandals aren’t just the obvious ones. If I wanted to expose more, you’d probably have to bleed even more.” She stood by the door, stunned for a long time. Almost helplessly, she spoke. “After this, I’ll break up with him. But promise me, can we live a good life together from now on? With a child, we could be a happy family.” She had said things like that almost every day during her pregnancy. Yet it didn’t stop her from continuing to be entangled with Liam. Either she felt sorry for him being an illegitimate child, or she thought he was lonely without family to rely on. In short, there were a thousand reasons for their passionate involvement and her helping him rise to prominence. She stood by the door, refusing to leave, as if I wouldn’t move until I answered. Looking at the sunlight she blocked, I perfunctorily agreed. It wasn’t until the next morning, when unblurred videos of my alleged infidelity went viral, that I understood what she meant by “after this.” Catherine released a clarification video. In the video, she tearfully told the media that I had been caught cheating during her pregnancy by my younger brother and had then falsely spread rumors about her as revenge. 3 Liam, in turn, sorrowfully claimed that he had merely advised me not to hurt Catherine’s feelings, but I, believing he would expose my affair, sought revenge. Everyone urged Catherine to divorce me, this upstart. Yet, she maintained an image of deep affection. “No matter what mistakes Noah makes in this life, I cannot stop loving him.” Watching her hypocritical act, I couldn’t help but vomit. Hearing this, Catherine, who was outside the door, rushed in. “What’s wrong?” I frowned, looking at Liam, who had followed her in, and shook off her hand. “Nothing, just disgusted with you. To protect your mistress’s crimes, you’ll slander your husband’s reputation at any cost. Catherine Davies, your love is truly magnificent.” Her face turned ashen. She opened her mouth, wanting to explain. But Liam suddenly knelt down. “I’m sorry, brother, it’s all my fault! Sister-in-law only used you as a shield for me. But she’s still in confinement, afraid you’d be angry, she came to explain to you despite her condition. Don’t be angry with her.” Catherine looked at him with tenderness, her gaze chastising me. “I came here to tell you about this. Those videos were all AI-generated by me. Ultimately, he’s your brother. It’s only right for you to sacrifice yourself to help him. My helping him is helping you maintain your family ties. Why must you be so aggressive towards him?” “Moreover, you’re unemployed. Reputation means nothing to you. What outsiders say won’t affect my feelings for you. It’s enough that I know it’s fake. But he’s different. He has no one to rely on, and he depends on the media for his livelihood. If his image and reputation are ruined, everything is over for him.” Listening to her sanctimonious justifications, I only felt nauseous. Unemployed, was that not also thanks to her? She not only forced my company to fire me but also warned the entire media industry that anyone who hired me would be going against her. My job interviews constantly hit dead ends. I finally found a private studio, but she maliciously reported us. Ultimately, all my media professional licenses were revoked, and I became a disgrace to the industry, hated by all. I couldn’t be bothered to argue with her. All in all, in about half a month, I would be completely free. Grandma also promised me that she would clear my name then. Their opinions no longer mattered. I looked at her with an expressionless face, let out a long breath, and turned over to lie on the bed. “Do whatever you want. It’s up to you.” She thought I was going to try and hit Liam like before, so she tensed up, fiercely shielding him. But seeing me turn my back and lie down, all her emotions came to an abrupt halt. After a long moment, she asked me, her voice filled with disbelief. “You… you’re not angry?” My voice was flat. “Haven’t you always wanted me to get along with him?” She let out a sigh of relief and smiled. “You’ve finally learned your lesson. I knew you weren’t that heartless. I’ll definitely make it up to you later.” I didn’t respond. I didn’t even look at her until they left. After a long time, I touched my chest, which felt completely still. So this was what letting go felt like. In the following days, she seemed to feel guilty, sending me gifts every now and then. She wasn’t discouraged when met with resistance, only endlessly recounting our beautiful future life together. It wasn’t until she brought up the child’s full moon celebration that she hesitantly spoke. “Liam will never be able to acknowledge his biological child in this life, so I want him to openly attend the child’s full moon celebration as the father while the child is still too young to understand.” “It would complete his regret, don’t you think?” My hands didn’t stop their work; I didn’t even glance up. “I told you, it’s up to you. This isn’t my child to begin with. Whatever you want to do has nothing to do with me.” She stiffened, her eyes welling up with redness and a hint of anger. She snatched the memorial items for Michael from my hand. “Why have you been like this all these days? Do you know what his attendance represents? It represents tacitly acknowledging him as a son-in-law of the Davies family. You used to never agree to that.” I paused, then glanced at her indifferently. “Isn’t this better? Last month, when you were ‘helping’ him with his needs, didn’t you also say it was a pity he couldn’t have a proper status in this life?” Watching her, ashen-faced and frozen like a statue, I retrieved the items. My emotions were so stable it was as if nothing had happened. Her endless explanations, attempting to claim she didn’t love him, but only had physical intimacy and felt responsible for him—disgusting rhetoric—were defeated by my silence.

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1 I’d just gotten back from sorting out the birth certificate when I saw my husband untying our daughter’s wristband. A prickle of suspicion chilled me. I was about to push the door open, but then I watched him swap out our daughter’s swaddling with another baby’s. Just then, a woman’s gentle voice drifted from inside the room. “Declan, I swear, I’ll raise your daughter as my own.” My husband, Declan Gray, looked up, his eyes brimming with a love and pity I’d never seen directed at me. “Liana, little Hope lost her father the moment she was born. Don’t worry, I promise to give her a complete family. She’ll grow up healthy, surrounded by a mother and father’s unwavering love. From this day forward, I am her father.” Outside the hospital room, I clutched the flimsy birth certificate, feeling like I’d been plunged into an ice bath. Liana Hayes, his unattainable ‘one that got away,’ the woman he still pined for. He wanted to give his beloved Liana’s daughter a complete family. What about our daughter? Inside, he held Liana’s baby with such tenderness, such intense focus and love. That look, so gentle and adoring, had never once been for me or our child. The warmth and affection on his face became a searing blade, striking me before I could even process it. An inexpressible, sharp pain tore through me, gutting my heart. I looked down, my eyes fixed on the pristine birth certificate, tracing our daughter’s name: Anya Gray. My vision blurred, tears welling. Was even her name a silent homage to their lost love? Only then did the realization hit me, slow and crushing: Declan didn’t love me. And he didn’t love our daughter either, this child I’d carried for nine months, enduring a full night of labor to bring into the world. The truth shattered me, leaving me trembling, barely able to stand, clinging to the wall for support. Declan’s voice, hoarse with emotion, reached me from the room. “Liana, the regret of our love, of what could have been, we’ll mend through this child. My first half of life was for you. The second will be for her. She’s the last thread connecting us.” The regret of a love that couldn’t be? I let out a bitter, self-mocking laugh. Why must your regrets be mended at the cost of my daughter’s entire life? A sacrifice made at another’s expense. My love for him withered, replaced by a silent storm of disappointment and resentment taking root deep within me. I wiped the tears from my face, slowly pushing myself off the wall. Steeling myself, I pushed open the door, interrupting their intimate exchange. Declan’s face darkened the moment he saw me, his voice sharp with irritation. “What took you so long? Is that how a mother acts? Amelia Reed, can’t you learn from Liana? Her eyes haven’t left the baby for a second!” I lowered my gaze, hiding the disappointment and pain swirling in my eyes. In Declan’s world, I was always second best to Liana, even when he knew I’d just been getting our daughter’s birth certificate. Living in the same apartment building for years, he constantly compared me to Liana, always praising her, oblivious to the simmering tension between them. How blind I’d been not to notice their unspoken connection. My eyes fell on Liana, and a tight, bitter smile touched my lips, hatred gathering in my gaze. The baby in Liana’s arms was clearly my Anya! Sensing my stare, Liana subtly shifted, blocking my view. Just then, the baby in Declan’s arms began to wail. This time, he didn’t instantly blame me. Instead, he cradled the baby, murmuring soft reassurances. He hadn’t held our daughter once in the three days since she was born. Yet now, he looked down, speaking softly, an aura of paternal love radiating from him. The difference between love and indifference was stark, a brutal punch to the gut. I stared at him, my mind a battlefield, a bold and dangerous idea taking root. Liana turned, offering me a strained, bitter smile. “Little Hope lost her dad right after she was born. Seeing you two as a happy family of three… it really stings, you know?” She spoke with an air of self-pity, but a flicker of triumph, impossible to suppress, danced in her eyes. Declan looked up, his face etched with unconcealed sorrow, his eyes slightly red. “Liana…” I dug my nails into my palm, the sharp pain pulling me back from my daze. Liana sighed, then carried Anya to another bed. I took a deep breath, pushing down the bitterness, and reached out to take the baby from Declan, intending to soothe her. “Honey, is the baby hungry? I’ll go get some water for her formula.” Normally, Declan would have eagerly handed the baby over, but now, his brow furrowed in a tight frown. 2 “My daughter will have breast milk, of course. Formula? Do you have any responsibility at all? Amelia, listen to me, we’re only having one child, and I want to give her the absolute best! Don’t you even think about a second or third child!” With that, he practically shoved the baby into my arms, gesturing for me to feed her. I turned my face away, my heart swelling with a mix of bitterness and anger. Before Anya was born, he’d constantly told me to formula feed her so his mother could take over after my confinement, urging me to go back to work. His harsh words still echoed in my ears: “Amelia Reed, I know your family is wealthy, but you need to learn to be independent, not just waste away as a stay-at-home mom! The baby will be raised by the nanny and my mother.” So, the only true ties that bound him were Liana and her daughter. My daughter wasn’t worth his concern, nor did she deserve to grow up in her mother’s arms. Indifference meant no thought, no care. It wasn’t until Anya, still in Liana’s arms, began to cry loudly that my self-pity was interrupted. Hearing my daughter’s cries, I involuntarily took a half step forward. Liana frowned, impatiently placing the baby on the bed. Then, as if an idea struck her, she quickly turned to Declan and me, explaining, “Crying it out, it helps train a child’s independence. After all, this child was born without a father. I can’t spoil her.” Anya sobbed heartbrokenly, yet Liana simply scrolled through her phone. Listening to her absurd justification, I clenched my fists, a furious heat rising within me. “A three-day-old infant? Training what independence? Liana Hayes, crying is a baby’s natural instinct! If you let her continue, she’ll cry herself sick!” My heart ached at Anya’s cries, and I lunged forward, desperate to pick her up. But Declan coldly blocked me. “Amelia Reed! What right do you have to lecture Liana? Who do you think you are?” My mind exploded. My blood ran cold, and I started to tremble uncontrollably. He knew. He knew the one crying her heart out right now was our child! My body rigid, I turned to Declan, my voice catching in my throat. “The baby is crying. Can’t you hear her?” Declan’s brow was deeply furrowed, his eyes utterly devoid of emotion. He looked at me with annoyance. “Liana’s own child. Is she not heartbroken enough that you, an outsider, need to step in?” I almost demanded to know how he could be so cruel. But the words died on my lips, replaced by a bitter ache, and I averted my gaze, unable to bear it. The conviction in my heart, however, only grew stronger. Anya cried until her voice was hoarse, but Declan seemed oblivious, his attention solely on the baby in his arms. He didn’t even spare Anya a glance. I tightened my fists, waiting for my chance. A chance to quietly switch the two babies back. Liana’s child might have been born without a father, but I wouldn’t let my Anya suffer the same fate. She deserved a life of privilege and love! I vowed silently, Anya, trust Mommy. I will ensure you have all the love of a mother and a father. Newborns were taken for a bath when they were three days old. I held this strange baby in my arms. This afternoon, I would get my Anya back. Anya had a tiny red mole behind her ear, a secret only I knew. From the day she was born, I’d been the only one to feed her, to change her diapers. Declan didn’t know, and Liana didn’t either. They thought by swapping swaddles and wristbands, they could steal my daughter? Ha. How naive. She was my precious girl, whom I cherished so deeply I barely dared to sleep at night. In the afternoon, Liana’s mother arrived. The moment she saw the sleeping baby on the bed, she snapped irritably, “A curse-bringer, a useless girl! Get her out of this hospital already, stop wasting money!” Liana’s husband had passed away two weeks prior, never even seeing his own child. A tragic story, indeed. Mrs. Hayes’s loud voice drew glances from other patients. Both babies in the room startled and began to cry simultaneously. Declan frowned slightly, seemingly displeased by my distraction. He snatched the baby from my arms, murmuring reassurances. My eyes never left Anya, her cries tearing at my heart. Mrs. Hayes, further annoyed by the crying, roughly yanked open the baby’s swaddling, her dirt-stained finger jabbing at Anya’s face. 3 “Cry, cry, cry, that’s all you do! Your father died because of your crying! If I’d known it was going to be a girl, I never would have let you be born!” Noticing the disapproving stares from others in the room, Liana, ever conscious of appearances, made a halfhearted attempt to intervene. “Mom, don’t say such things to the baby.” I watched Liana coldly. Her eyes hadn’t even left her phone. How could people like them possibly raise a child well? Yet, my husband was so blind and senseless, convinced the world owed Liana everything, willing to sacrifice anything to make it up to her! Mrs. Hayes scoffed, finally lowering her voice, but still grumbling, “I’ll take the child back to the countryside. Liana, you need to find another man while you’re still young! Preferably a rich one, so I can have something to look forward to in my old age…” As Mrs. Hayes’s rambling grew more outrageous, Liana finally looked up from her phone, her gaze instinctively drifting toward Declan. Her eyes reddened slightly, and she answered with a weary air, “Mom, I… I couldn’t marry the man I wanted back then. Now, it doesn’t matter who I marry.” Declan lowered his head, his gaze fixed on the baby in the swaddle, appearing calm. But I saw the profound sadness and loneliness in his eyes. He held the baby, no longer attempting to comfort her, his fingers unconsciously scrunching the bedsheets. Liana’s words had pierced him deeply. Yet, he showed no reaction to the thought of my daughter being taken to the countryside, branded as a father-killer. His mind was lost in Liana’s lament. I stared at his slightly pale face, my gaze fixed on him as I cautiously asked, “Honey, Liana’s baby… she’s quite pitiful, isn’t she?” My eyes never left Declan, searching for a flicker of compassion, reluctance, or even a hint of guilt. There was nothing. Declan suddenly looked up at me, his eyes cold. He pressed his lips together, then said softly, “She was born unlucky. No one is to blame.” I stared at him in disbelief, as if I’d never truly seen him before. Or perhaps, this was the first time I was truly seeing the man he was. The Declan before me was detached, callous. He casually dismissed her fate as ‘unlucky,’ a phrase that struck not just her, but my heart, with crushing weight. An unfamiliar emotion surged within me, suffocating me. The heavy atmosphere in the room made my heart pound, and I numbly turned away, unwilling for him to see the tears in my eyes. Declan’s gaze suddenly landed on me, his eyes sharp. “Amelia, you’ve been acting strange all morning. Since when did you care so much about other people’s business?” I took a deep breath, expelling the tightness in my chest, and smiled. “Just seeing the baby… it tugs at my heart, that’s all.” Declan’s brows furrowed even tighter. He paused, then a hint of mockery entered his eyes as he scoffed, “Hmph, well, you’re certainly overflowing with sympathy. Amelia, instead of worrying about other people’s children, why don’t you pay more attention to your own daughter?” When the nurse announced it was time to take the newborns for their baths, my eyes drifted to Liana, who remained unmoving. “Liana, aren’t you taking your daughter for a bath?” Liana glanced at Anya in the swaddle, about to say something, when Mrs. Hayes quickly interjected, “No. A girl? Not worth the money.” Anger flared in my chest, but I suppressed it, remembering my plan. “It’s free, Auntie. The hospital provides it.” Hearing my words, Mrs. Hayes’s eyes lit up. Driven by the thought of a freebie, she scooped up Anya from the bed. “Then we’ll go! Your city hospitals really do have good service!” Mrs. Hayes, holding Anya, followed me closely out of the room. In my peripheral vision, as soon as we left, Liana went over to my husband, who was sitting on the visitor’s sofa. His eyes met hers, filled with remorse. I bit my lip hard, frantically telling myself, Don’t act rashly. For our daughter’s happiness, endure this for now! At the infant bathing room, the nurse directed parents to queue up to drop off their babies, with families waiting outside. Anya went in first. Mrs. Hayes, bored while waiting by the door, struck up a conversation with me. When she found out I also had a daughter, she pursed her lips, her eyes filled with disdain. “Tsk, what’s the point of having a girl?” My expression instantly turned cold. I had no desire to speak further with such an ignorant and narrow-minded person. 4 Mrs. Hayes couldn’t stand still, constantly looking around. She seemed to spot something exciting, turning back to instruct me, “Hey, Amelia, can you pick up that little brat for me later? Auntie will be right back!” My heart skipped a beat. This was the perfect opportunity. I quickly nodded. Mrs. Hayes hurried off towards the bustling crowd. At that precise moment, I handed the prepared clothes and swaddle to the nurse. When the nurse brought Anya out after her bath, she was wearing the tiny outfit I’d prepared. I held her close, my eyes never leaving her, as if cradling a lost treasure I’d miraculously found again. My eyes were stinging with unshed tears. By the time Mrs. Hayes returned from her distraction, the two babies had, through my careful maneuvering, swapped identities once more. From this day forward, my Anya would grow up safe and sound under my protection. She would have the complete love of both her mother and father. My gaze swept over the infant in Mrs. Hayes’s arms, and I had to avert my eyes. I was sorry. My heart was small, only holding enough space for my loved ones and my daughter. There was no room left for anyone else. Back in the room, I expected everything to have returned to normal, unnoticed. But to my shock, the moment Declan took the baby, he knew something was wrong. His eyes were fixed on the infant’s face, his expression grim, dark as a storm cloud. A terrible premonition bloomed in my chest. Sure enough. He roughly tore open the baby’s swaddle, ignoring her sudden startled cries, and sharply demanded, “Amelia Reed, where is my daughter? What have you done with my daughter?” Declan’s eyes were bloodshot. As if a sudden thought struck him, he thrust the baby into my arms and strode out of the room. I held Anya, trying to stop him, but he brutally slapped me. Smack! “Amelia Reed, get out of my way! I’m going to find my daughter!” I had just given birth. The force wasn’t immense, a light slap, but it left my mouth numb and stinging. I grabbed Declan’s arm, my voice a raw, ugly rasp squeezed from my throat. “Our daughter is right here, honey. Look at her. She’s our Anya…” Declan flung me away, his gaze poisonous, as if he wanted to tear me to shreds. “No! She’s not mine! She’s just your Amelia Reed’s daughter, never the precious baby I wanted!” I stood there, holding our daughter, a sharp pain in my chest, as if tiny ants were gnawing at my heart. It wasn’t an intense pain, but it made tears well in my eyes. I forced my eyes wide open, looking at Declan, and asked with a bitter laugh, “Declan, do you hate Anya? Or do you just hate me? Are you truly so unwilling to raise our child?” He glared at me with hatred, his lips trembling, trying to speak but failing. I watched him in silence, my eyes frighteningly red. Yet, when I looked at him, there was still a hint of pleading in my gaze, perhaps even unknown to myself. Deep down, I still harbored hope for Declan, for our family. I still loved him. In the silent standoff, Declan’s face was alarmingly pale. I offered him a forced smile, reaching out to steady him. “Honey, my body hasn’t fully recovered yet, I…” Just then, Mrs. Hayes walked in, holding the endlessly wailing child. Hearing the baby’s cries, Declan cruelly pushed my hand away and snatched the child from Mrs. Hayes. His hands trembling, he pressed his face against the infant’s tiny one, his eyes filled with tender love. “Don’t cry, baby. Daddy’s here. Good girl.” I looked at my empty hands, humiliation and pain washing over me. In my arms, my daughter slept soundly, her little mouth smacking. Perhaps she was dreaming, for she even smiled sweetly. The tears I’d held back now streamed down, soaking her swaddle. Anya, forgive Mommy. Maybe I can’t give you a complete family anymore. But believe me, I will love you with all my strength. Behind me, I heard Declan soothing the baby, and Liana standing beside him, a possessive, protective stance. The hospital room fell into a dead silence, all eyes on him, then on me. I wiped away my tears, and by the time I turned around, I was the calm, decisive Amelia Reed again. If a forced connection brings no joy, then I’ll simply let it go. I looked at Declan and said calmly, “Declan, let’s get a divorce.”

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When Riverbend Industries collapsed, the entire social elite of New York City mocked me, the long-lost heiress, for choosing the wrong man. They waited, eager to see us reduced to beggars. At that time, penniless, he lay beneath a bridge, his face etched with despair. “Leave me, Amelia. I have nothing left.” I paused for a second. “…Don’t be so quick to discount yourself. You can at least drag your lame leg to deliver takeout and support me.” He pushed himself up. “You’re right.” Actually, I was poorer than him. The system had bound me as Declan Gray’s exclusive trophy wife, incapable of doing anything else. I was tied to the system; my only source of income was Declan. If he didn’t support me, I would literally starve. His ‘one that got away’—Liana—and my adopted brother, Alex, had stormed into my apartment, clearing out every single thing, leaving not even a cent in my digital wallet. Just as we were at our wits’ end, a voice echoed in my mind: “The Vicious Ex-Girlfriend System has activated! Host, you will receive cash rewards for tormenting the male lead!” “Current Mission: Step on his chest and call him useless! Reward: Fifty thousand dollars!” My eyes lit up. I looked at the dejected Declan. “Big brother! The system’s finally alive! It wants me to torment you, and then we’ll have money!” 1 Yes, I knew I was the vicious female antagonist of this story, and the real heiress of the Sterling family, swapped at birth. The fake heiress was the protagonist. Not only did my entire adoptive family adore her, but she was also the darling of all the powerful figures in New York. When I was brought back to my birth family, they did nothing but humiliate me, never spending a dime on me. Bound by the system, I was forbidden from doing business, earning money outside of the male lead, or even saving it. My sole purpose was to be his trophy wife. Everything was set for me to humiliate and provoke him after his downfall, driving him to win back the protagonist. Their eventual reunion would be a “broken mirror made whole,” and I, the antagonist, would be tormented to death as retribution for the protagonist’s “humiliation.” The system had promised that if I completed all the missions, I would gain a chance to survive. Finally, this day had come. Declan, after hearing my words, didn’t stir. “Have you lost your mind too?” I tugged at his sleeve. “Brother, just play along, okay?” I always knew that my character, the vicious antagonist, was quite attractive. Declan had been incredibly doting on me over the years, even though the story established his true love was my fake heiress sister. But it didn’t matter. The system initially told me: complete the plot, and I’ll be free to return to my original world with a one hundred million dollar reward! So, for all these years, I’d contentedly played the role of the perfect trophy wife, just waiting for this day. Declan reached out and stroked my head. “You’re right. I can’t fall apart. I still have to take care of you.” He endured the pain of his broken leg—a result of his half-brother’s thugs—and struggled to get up. “Declan, I’m serious!” I grabbed his hand. “I really am bound to a ‘Vicious Ex-Girlfriend System.’ Can you please cooperate with me? We can milk the system for money, and then we can fix your leg!” Declan had been good to me all these years, both in life and in bed. He was an excellent lover, and once, a brilliant CEO. Sterling Corporation had reached unprecedented heights under his leadership. If not for the betrayal of his family and board members, he wouldn’t have fallen so low. He’d founded numerous children’s charities and ensured girls in impoverished areas had access to education. So, when the system bound me, I decided not to truly harm him. I planned to tell him everything and just have him cooperate. After all, the system only cared about what I did, not my intentions. Declan picked up a wooden stick to support himself. “Audrey Reed, when I earn enough money, I’ll definitely take you to a doctor.” I… He limped towards the exit of the underpass. I quickly followed. “Declan Gray! Don’t make me get rough…” Before I could finish, several figures descended the steps. “Well, well, well, my dear sister has been hiding here!” Liana Sterling, the fake heiress, stepped down, flanked by my biological parents and brother, and Declan’s half-brother. I quickly helped Declan. He’d just had his leg broken by over thirty men for exchanging a few words with his brother. Liana looked at Declan’s disheveled state, her face a mask of heartbreak. “Declan, you’ve disappointed me so much. I only went abroad, I wasn’t dead. Why did you find her to replace me? You knew it was because of her that I left all those years ago! I just want you to taste what it’s like to lose everything!” I rubbed my temples. Right. Because of this misunderstanding, the male and female leads would torment each other, then eventually forgive each other. That was the plot. But Declan merely glanced at her. “Who said she’s your substitute?” My headache worsened. In the original story, these two were both incredibly stubborn. The male lead acted as if he had no tact, always picking fights with the female lead. I looked at the bodyguards on the bank, worried they’d break Declan’s other leg. I forced a smile at Liana. “Miss Sterling, he’s already in this state. Why don’t we… just let it go?” Liana glared at me. “When we’re talking, do you have the right to interrupt?!” The words barely left her mouth when I raised my hand and slapped her. What the hell! System, are you controlling me?! I’m such a gentle person, how could I hit someone?! Looking at her rapidly swelling face, I quickly explained, “Miss Sterling, I swear I didn’t mean to hit you… do you believe me?” Declan looked at me, his eyes full of tenderness, as if saying, She’s truly lost her mind. I need to work harder delivering takeout to pay for her treatment. Liana’s eyes welled with tears. “Mom, Dad! Sister actually did this to me…” “Wait!” I cut her off. “Miss Sterling, mind your titles. The day I came home, because you threatened to kill yourself, they disowned me. None of you acknowledge me, so I’m not your sister. Alright, carry on—but watch your language, please.” Liana… Declan gently patted my back. “It’s okay. You still have me. I’ll collect soda cans to support you.” I nodded. “Actually, plastic water bottles are worth more. The PET can even be turned into clothes.” “Is that so? I’ve learned something new.” He looked around. “There are quite a few around here. Even more near the stadium.” “You’re experienced.” I genuinely praised him. My birth mother, Serena Sterling, looked at us, trembling with rage. “Audrey Reed! Look at yourself! What kind of behavior is this?!” “Excuse me, ma’am, who are you? What right do you have to lecture me?” I maintained my smile. Serena clenched her fists. “I gave birth to you!” “No, no, I wasn’t. The day I left the Sterling mansion, you said you never had me. So, we have no connection.” Julian Sterling’s old face also darkened. “Audrey Reed! From today on, you break up with Declan Gray. I’ll give you a thousand dollars a month, and you live your own life!” “You’re putting on airs, Mr. Sterling.” I chuckled. “And who are you to me?” The Sterling brothers behind them looked like they wanted to speak, but I pointed at them directly. “You’d best shut up. We have nothing to lose!” I pulled a “gun” from my canvas bag. “Worst case scenario, we all die together!” Everyone recoiled in fear, terrified I’d actually shoot. “Fine, fine! Audrey Reed, you can go live under a bridge with Declan Gray!” “Audrey Reed, you are forbidden from using the Sterling name for anything ever again!” “Audrey Reed, our only sister is Liana! If you die out there, it has nothing to do with the Sterling family!” … They retreated far away, even the bodyguards encircling them. I flicked open the gun, a small flame sputtering out. “Hmph, it’s just a lighter. And you’re already scared?” Their faces turned various shades of green and white. Declan, leaning on his wooden stick, whispered, “I’ll buy you a real one later.” I patted his shoulder. “We don’t do illegal things, even if you were a former CEO.” “Audrey Reed!!” Liana gritted her teeth. “You guys, go strip her clothes off!” The bodyguards’ eyes widened. “Miss Sterling, violating a woman’s consent is illegal. That’s outside our job description.” Liana grew even angrier. “I’ll pay you more!” Bodyguard: “That’s even more impossible. We’re assigned by the company. Taking private payments will affect our performance bonuses. Don’t get us in trouble.” I shook my head. “It’s 2026. Even the richest heirs in New York get jailed for breaking the law. Don’t make it hard on these working people. Declan, let’s go somewhere else to continue what we were doing. Ignore these lunatics.” Declan nodded. It was time to find a cleaner bridge. This one was too dusty with all the traffic. “Big brother.” Alex Gray, who had been silent, suddenly spoke, his sinister face devoid of emotion. “Little brother left you alive. You should cherish it, big brother.” I looked at him. In the original novel, he loved Liana unrequitedly and constantly targeted Declan. Later, I cooperated with him, and after my death… he was the one who collected my body. Eventually, realizing he could never have Liana, he was sent abroad, living out his days in depression with endless money. Honestly, I suspected the author was a bit of a simp. Why did I, the vicious antagonist, have to die horribly, while the vicious male antagonist got to enjoy wealth and luxury for half his life? And depressed?! With endless money, no classes, no work, you’re depressed about what?! If you don’t know how to live a good life, give it to me! 2 Alex watched Declan’s still indifferent expression, a flicker of murderous intent crossing his eyes. He extended a hand to Liana, his voice calm. “Liana, it’s time to go. When we get engaged, we’ll invite big brother and his girlfriend.” Liana stared intently at Declan, waiting for him to break down, regret, and weep. Unfortunately, nothing. His face remained distant, as if everything before him had nothing to do with him. Alex suddenly gripped Liana’s hand tighter. Could it be that my brother no longer liked Liana? Did he like… Audrey Reed?! “Audrey Reed.” Alex suddenly turned his gaze to me. I looked at him too. What, was the vicious male antagonist going to team up with the vicious female antagonist? “Are you interested,” a slight curve played on his lips, “in being my woman? I can keep you outside of everything, and money, you can spend as you please.” Declan’s face finally changed. He looked up at Alex, his eyes incredibly dark and dangerous. I scoffed. “Who needs your money? I only want my darling husband’s~” As I said it, I hugged Declan’s arm, but internally, I was crying hysterically. This damn setup! Except for the money Declan gave me, I couldn’t spend a single cent from anyone else. If I took Alex’s money, I’d be in the hospital the next second, and that money could only be used for medical bills. Who cares about that?! Declan’s tense expression visibly relaxed. He put his arm around my waist, his voice low. “Let’s go.” Liana, hearing Alex’s words and seeing Declan’s complete indifference to her reaction, trembled with rage. She pointed at me, her voice shrill. “Audrey Reed! You only cared about Declan’s money, didn’t you? You don’t love him at all! Now that he has nothing, you’ll eventually find a richer man. Stop lying to him!” I… She knew me so well. Truly, we were born on the same day. But I showed no outward reaction. Instead, my eyes reddened, and with tears welling, I looked at her. “Miss Sterling, how could you say such a thing? My feelings for Declan are genuine… I will never leave him in this lifetime. Even if we have to collect plastic bottles together, I’ll be by his side!” He collects, I’ll sit in a pedicab scrolling through TikTok, waiting for him. Declan squeezed my hand. He looked at me with deep eyes, as if saying: So she truly loves me this much. Ignoring the gazes behind us, we leaned on each other, slowly walking out of their sight. 3 Liana trembled with rage, suddenly turning to glare at Alex. “Didn’t you say you loved me? Why would you say such things to Audrey Reed?!” Alex brushed imaginary dust from his sleeve, his tone light and airy. “I suddenly found it more interesting to fight Declan for things. Whoever he loves, I’ll fight for.” He glanced at Liana, a half-smile on his face. “I thought he loved you.” Liana’s face instantly paled, then flushed scarlet. The Sterling family quickly gathered to comfort her. “Liana, how could she compare to you? Those two will starve on the streets eventually!” “Exactly. Sterling Corp has blacklisted them across all industries. They won’t find work. A rich boy like Declan, can he really stoop to collecting bottles?” “Audrey Reed will soon come back begging us… Their little romance won’t last long. She’s not used to living in poverty.” … Liana buried her face in Serena’s arms, her voice choked with tears. “Mom, if my sister really comes back… please don’t send her away. Just let her stay. Otherwise, if she’s out there, selling herself to make a living, it’ll be the Sterling family’s disgrace.” Serena hugged her tightly, her heart aching. “Okay, okay! If she comes back, I’ll lock her in the attic. I’ll never let her go out and embarrass us again!” Liana subtly curved her lips over Serena’s shoulder. Once Audrey Reed couldn’t bear the hardship and ran back… she could go be with Declan. Keep him outside of everything… He’d loved her for so many years. How could he find a replacement and then truly stop loving her? She refused to believe it.

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The day before the wedding, my fiancé’s ex-girlfriend texted him: “If you marry her, I’ll give myself to another man.” He grabbed his car keys, ready to bolt, but his mother, threatening to end her own life, blocked him at the door. Eight years later, his mother passed away. The first thing he did was throw me into the city’s sketchiest club, forcing me to serve drinks. Pinned at a card table, he whispered in my ear, “If you hadn’t been so eager to marry me back then, she wouldn’t have ended up like this. Now, it’s your turn to feel the humiliation she suffered.” He used my younger brother as leverage, keeping me there for six agonizing years. Finally, sick and broken, I was left in a rundown apartment to die. I woke up again, back on the day of the wedding. … “Rovan Miller! If you walk out that door today, I’ll jump from this very spot!” Rovan panicked. He feared his ex, Sasha, truly would give herself to someone else, and he feared his mother, Mrs. Miller, would actually follow through on her threat. He ripped off his tie, his eyes bloodshot as he glared at me. “Chloe Vance, are you really that desperate to get married? Is clinging to me like this fun? You’re pathetic!” Every word was a knife. “You insolent boy!” Mrs. Miller rushed forward, slapping him hard across the face, trembling with fury. “It was me! I begged Chloe to marry you!” Indeed, this marriage was arranged after his mother knelt and pleaded with my family. The Miller family business was facing a liquidity crisis, but this spoiled young master was still oblivious. His mother feared he couldn’t handle hardship. “Mrs. Miller,” I heard my voice, surprisingly calm. “Since Rovan is unwilling, let’s just call it off.” Mrs. Miller’s face went white. My father, Mr. Vance, immediately stood by my side. “Mrs. Miller, a forced marriage brings no happiness. Your son’s heart has already flown away; my daughter would only suffer if she married him.” “No, please don’t!” Mrs. Miller broke out in a sweat, desperately grabbing Rovan. “Apologize to Chloe, now!” Rovan violently shook her off. “Apologize for what?! I’ve told you countless times, I love Sasha! Don’t you understand plain English?!” He turned to my father, his tone mocking. “Mr. Vance, even if you force me to marry her today, I won’t lay a finger on her. Sasha is the only one in my heart. Your daughter will just warm an empty bed for life!” “You bastard!” My father clenched his fist. I stopped him, looking at Rovan’s face, contorted with rage, and suddenly found it all so laughable. “You don’t need to spout threats here. I’m not marrying you. Go on, hurry. Any later, and your Sasha might actually end up with someone else.” “You goddamn—” Rovan raised his hand. Just then, his phone shrilled. It was Sasha calling. He quickly answered, his voice instantly changing. “Sasha! Don’t do anything foolish! Wait for me! I’ve told them everything! I don’t care if Mom disowns me, I only want you!” He hung up, his fingers flying across the keypad, his expression resolute. “Mom, stop forcing me to marry Chloe! Even if I marry her, my heart will always be Sasha’s! My children, in the future, can only be borne by Sasha!” I clapped twice, softly. “Touching, truly touching. Mrs. Miller, you’ve seen it all. Is there still any need for this wedding?” Mrs. Miller frantically wiped her face, forcing a smile that was uglier than a cry. “Chloe, Rovan… he’s just temporarily infatuated! You grew up with him; isn’t your bond deeper than anyone else’s? Besides, he once saved you, remember?” The mention of it pricked my heart like a needle. Yes, in junior year, when I was cornered by thugs in an alley, Rovan rushed in and took a hit, breaking his arm and laying him up for two months. From then on, I felt I owed him. My personality was strong; I couldn’t stand to see him wronged, always protecting him. He, in turn, probably grew accustomed to hiding behind me. He never studied hard, never did anything properly, slowly becoming the kind of person who couldn’t survive without his family. Mrs. Miller continued, “Considering all that, give him another chance…” “I don’t want it!” Rovan abruptly cut her off, his face full of disgust. “Chloe Vance, that’s not gratitude, that’s emotional blackmail! You know how many years you’ve held that over my head!” Mrs. Miller raised her hand to strike him again, but I stopped her. I unclasped a delicate silver chain from my neck, its pendant a small, intricately carved ‘peace lock’. Rovan’s grandmother had personally put it on me before she passed, holding my hand and saying, “Chloe, Rovan is irresponsible. Help Grandma keep an eye on him.” I caressed the cool lock, then gently placed it in Mrs. Miller’s trembling hand. “Mrs. Miller, I’ve always remembered Grandma’s wishes. But this peace lock is meant for the Miller family daughter-in-law. Now, it’s back with its rightful owner.” My voice was calm. The heavy stone that had weighed on my heart for so many years felt as if it had been handed over with that peace lock. Mrs. Miller froze. Just then, Rovan stepped forward, almost snatching the peace lock from his mother’s hand. “It should have been returned long ago! Only Sasha deserves this peace lock! Don’t you feel ashamed, holding onto it for all these years?” In my previous life, he had repeatedly hinted at wanting the peace lock back. I always thought of his grandmother’s dying wish and hadn’t relented. Now, I understood. He had always planned it for Sasha. Before anyone else could react, a commotion erupted at the banquet hall entrance. A girl in a white dress, whose style, at first glance, bore a striking resemblance to a wedding gown, her face streaked with tears, rushed straight towards Rovan. It was Sasha. She had actually found her way here. Rovan’s eyes instantly lit up. He immediately rushed over, took Sasha’s hand, and pulled her in front of his mother. Then, with a thump, he pulled Sasha down to kneel before his mother. “Mom! I’m begging you! I’ve chosen Sasha for life! I can’t live without her! I don’t care about the company, or the family fortune, I just want her!” Sasha also pleaded through tears, “Mrs. Miller, we truly love each other… please, let us be together!” Mrs. Miller clutched her chest, her face turning purple, gasping for breath. I quickly approached, instinctively pulling a rapid-acting heart pill from her pocket and helping her take it. This was a scene I had repeated countless times by her sickbed in my past life. Rovan, seeing this, far from showing concern, instead turned his fury on me, his voice vicious. “Chloe Vance! Stop playing the good girl here! If anything happens to my mom, I swear the Vance family will pay! Now, you, immediately, personally declare that this wedding is off!” I looked at his urgent, contorted face, and suddenly felt an absurd sense of relief. I even smiled faintly. “Rovan Miller,” I said slowly. “I’ve returned the peace lock, and I’ve called off the wedding. What more do you want from me? Do you need me to announce over the hotel’s PA system that I, Chloe Vance, no longer want you, so you can go pursue your true love?” “Cut the act!” Rovan grabbed my arm, his grip so strong my bones ached. “You think saying ‘it’s off’ ends it? Chloe Vance, what hold does your family have over mine? What did your father say to my mother?” I shook off his hand, rubbing my reddened wrist. “You want to know? Go ask your mother.” He immediately turned, leading Sasha, and loudly declared to Mrs. Miller, “Mom! No matter your reasons, I will be with Sasha!” Sasha clutched her stomach tightly, her eyes welling up as she looked at Mrs. Miller. “Mrs. Miller, I’m carrying Rovan’s baby, almost three months along. You can’t… you can’t break up our family of three!” The news was a bombshell. Mrs. Miller stumbled, her face ashen. I supported her, my voice surprisingly calm. “Mrs. Miller, this is good news. Since they already have a child, the wedding is all set. Why not let them go through with it?” Mrs. Miller pointed at Rovan, her finger trembling. “You… you scoundrel! I will never accept such a shameless person as my daughter-in-law! You, you take her and get rid of it!” “Get rid of it?” Rovan reacted as if he’d been stepped on. “Mom! This is your own grandchild! A life! How can you even say that?!” Sasha collapsed to her knees, hugging Mrs. Miller’s legs and weeping. “Mrs. Miller, please! Rovan and I truly love each other, and the baby is innocent! If you let me in, I promise to serve you well and raise the child properly. Please, just give us a chance to live…” Mrs. Miller closed her eyes. When she looked at Sasha again, there was a rare severity in her gaze. “Young lady, you’re young, and you have a long life ahead. Listen to me, this child cannot stay. If you leave now, I can give you a sum of money, enough for you to live well. But if you insist on staying with him,” she glanced at her useless son, a bitter smile gracing her lips, “you might end up with nothing.” Sasha’s eyes flickered, then she cried even harder. “No, Mrs. Miller, I don’t want anything, I just want Rovan! If you don’t agree, I… I’ll take the baby and die!” Mrs. Miller closed her eyes. “Rovan, you choose today. Her, or your mother and this family.” “Mom! Why are you forcing me?! Did the Vance family promise you something? Or do they have something on you? Are you really selling your son like this?!” “Rovan Miller!” My father finally couldn’t take it anymore and spoke, his voice low but carrying the authority of someone long accustomed to power. “Since it’s come to this, I’ll be direct. Our Vance family never relies on anyone to get by. You helped Chloe once, but the troubles Chloe has shielded you from and the messes she’s cleaned up over the years, that debt was repaid long ago, and then some. This wedding, today, is canceled. My daughter is not a tool for your family to solve its problems.” Mrs. Miller’s last bit of strength drained away. She stooped, as if she had aged twenty years in an instant, and waved her hand, her voice as faint as a sigh. “Rovan, this is the path you’ve chosen. Don’t… don’t regret it later.” Rovan and Sasha exchanged a look, pure euphoria washing over them. Rovan excitedly vowed, “Mom! I will never regret it! I’ll change, I promise! I’ll work hard, I’ll support this family, and let you live a good life!” Sasha quickly chimed in, “Mrs. Miller, I’ll be a good daughter-in-law and take care of everything for Rovan!” I looked at their faces, full of blind hope for a future they knew nothing about, and couldn’t help but smile faintly. Support this family? The Miller family company was a hollow shell now. Rovan had no idea how much debt it owed, how many lawsuits it faced, all meticulously hidden by Mrs. Miller. In my previous life, it was only through constant investment from my family and navigating complex relationships that the Miller family barely survived for a few years after the wedding. Once he gained confidence, he believed my family was exploiting him, that I had destroyed his true love, and he repaid Sasha’s debts and humiliations tenfold upon me. The forced drinks, the knives at my throat, the nights I was bargained over like merchandise in dark private rooms… a chill seeped into my very bones. “Dad, Mom,” I turned, no longer looking at the embracing, ill-fated couple, nor at Mrs. Miller’s suddenly ashen, despairing face, “let’s go home.” I was about to leave, arm in arm with my parents, when Rovan rushed a few steps forward, blocking our way. His face showed no apology, but rather an irritable urgency to draw a clear line. “Chloe Vance, since we’ve spoken frankly, let’s stop interacting from now on. Sasha and the baby need peace. What you owe me, what I owe you, let’s call it even today. From now on… let’s not meet unless absolutely necessary.” I looked at his eagerness to distance himself, finding it only ironic. Call it even? What he owed me was far more than a simple debt. In junior year, he got into a feud with a group of thugs from outside school. They threatened to break his leg. I didn’t tell him. Instead, I went to negotiate with them myself, only to be cornered in an abandoned garage, almost losing my life. Someone passing by eventually called the police. I received seven stitches on my forehead, and there’s still a faint scar there, hidden by my bangs. And Sasha. I had looked into her long ago. She worked at several places, specifically targeting young masters like Rovan, who had some family money but were simple-minded. I privately confronted her, telling her to stay away from Rovan. The very next day, I was pushed down a flight of stairs from behind, fracturing my ankle and needing three months to recover. Mrs. Miller and my parents knew all of this, keeping it from him to prevent him from acting impulsively. I always stood in front of him, shielding him from trouble, yet it couldn’t compare to a few months of Sasha’s tears. “Miss Vance,” Sasha also came closer, her tone soft and sweet, but her eyes held a sharp edge. “After today, Rovan and I are family. Let bygones be bygones. I hope you… know how to keep your distance in the future.” I looked at her triumphant demeanor and found it utterly amusing. Did she truly believe the gang leader she had latched onto could pull strings everywhere? The evidence I held in my hand was enough to send her backer scrambling. But today, I still had a use for him. I changed out of my wedding dress into simple casual clothes. As I left the hotel, the “congratulatory gift” I had arranged for them arrived. A man with a buzz cut and tattooed arms leaned against a motorcycle, smoking. He saw me and subtly raised his chin. Behind him were several other rough-looking young men. I didn’t stop, walking straight to my family’s car. The car had just started when I heard a faint commotion from the direction of the hotel banquet hall. Soon, the noise grew louder, even drowning out the original wedding music. Inside the opulent hotel banquet hall, the emcee was reading his congratulatory speech. Suddenly, a side door was violently pushed open. The buzz-cut man, along with his group, strode directly to the stage, snatching the microphone from the emcee’s hand. He scanned the astonished guests below, then grinned, his voice booming through the speakers, reaching every corner: “Excuse me for a few minutes, folks, I’ve got something to say!” “This bastard Miller on stage, he stole my girl, messed with my woman, and now he wants to marry her? Is that how things work in this world? Sasha! Get your ass down here! Whose baby is in your belly? You’re going to tell everyone right here, right now!” The buzz-cut man’s crude voice echoed through the entire banquet hall. All the guests gasped and stood up, the scene instantly descending into chaos. Rovan’s face turned beet red. He instinctively shielded Sasha behind him, shouting with bravado, “Who the hell are you?! Spouting nonsense here! Security! Where’s security?!” The buzz-cut man, known in certain circles as “Big Bro Vic,” sneered, completely ignoring Rovan. He tossed the microphone aside, creating a jarring screech, then advanced, his eyes like a hawk, fixed on Sasha, who was cowering behind Rovan. “Sasha, I’m asking you again, whose baby is in your belly?” Sasha trembled with fear, clutching Rovan’s clothes tightly, crying, “Rovan, I don’t know him… he’s crazy! Make him leave!” “Don’t know me?” Big Bro Vic pulled out his phone, swiped a few times on the screen, then pointed it at the nearest table of guests. “You’re all respectable people, take a look. Is the woman in this photo the lady on stage?” On the phone screen was a selfie of Sasha in revealing sleepwear, intimately nestled in Big Bro Vic’s arms. The background was a messy hotel bed. The angle clearly showed Sasha herself holding the phone. “Whoa—” The crowd erupted. Rovan spun around, staring at Sasha in disbelief. “What… what is this?!” “It’s photoshopped! Rovan, they photoshopped it to frame me!” Sasha cried hysterically. “You’re the only man I’ve ever been with! The baby in my belly is obviously yours! You have to believe me!” “Believe you?” Big Bro Vic sounded like he’d heard the funniest joke. “Alright, then let’s go to the hospital right now for an amniocentesis, and see if the DNA matches up. If you’re innocent, I’ll apologize to you on the spot. If not…” Big Bro Vic’s eyes suddenly turned cold. “I’ll throw you and that little piece of flesh in your belly into the river to feed the fish!” Sasha’s face instantly lost all color. Rovan’s mind was a mess. He looked at the tear-streaked Sasha, then at the menacing Big Bro Vic. His last shred of rationality was consumed by rage. Like a furious bull, he charged at Big Bro Vic. “I’ll kill you, you bastard!” However, a pampered young master like him was no match for Big Bro Vic. Big Bro Vic sidestepped, grabbed Rovan’s arm, twisted it, and then kicked him behind the knee. Rovan fell to the ground with a thump in a humiliating posture, screaming in pain. Big Bro Vic’s thugs immediately swarmed Rovan, punching and kicking him. The scene descended into complete pandemonium. Guests screamed and scattered, tables and chairs toppled, exquisite dishes and drinks spilled everywhere. Mrs. Miller, already on the verge of collapse, saw her son being beaten, her vision went black, and she completely fainted. In the chaos, Sasha, seeing her chance, lifted her dress and tried to slip out a side door. “Trying to run?” Big Bro Vic was quick, grabbing her hair and violently yanking her back, throwing her to the ground. “You rotten bitch! How much money did I spend on you? You took my money, used it to support pretty boys outside, and now you want to make a fool of me?!” He raised his hand, and a resounding slap echoed across Sasha’s face. Just then, the banquet hall doors burst open, and a group of uniformed police officers stormed in, shouting sternly, “Police! Nobody move! Everyone, hands on your head and squat down!” The arrival of the police finally brought a messy end to the farce. Big Bro Vic and his thugs were taken away for public disturbance. Rovan, as one of the parties involved, was invited to “assist with investigations,” his face bruised and swollen. Sasha, suspected of blackmail and extortion, was also taken away. Mrs. Miller was rushed to the hospital by ambulance. The entire Miller family, in a mere hour, became the biggest joke in the city. My father handled the situation with extreme tact. He apologized to the guests present in the name of the victim, promising that the Vance family would compensate for any losses. His words were flawless, both severing ties and preserving the Vance family’s dignity. People looked at my family with pity and relief. “Thank goodness Chloe was decisive and didn’t marry that idiot.” “Yes, the Vance family cut their losses in time and dodged a bullet.” On the way home, the car was silent. My mother held my hand, her eyes still red. My father calmly handled follow-up matters on the phone. “Look into Big Bro Vic’s background, and Sasha’s. Also, inform our media partners that today’s coverage should focus on the Vance family as victims, who promptly canceled the wedding.” The next day, I went to the hospital alone. Mrs. Miller lay on the hospital bed. Overnight, she seemed to have aged a decade and a half, half of her hair turned white. Seeing me, a complex emotion flickered in her cloudy eyes, and she struggled to sit up. “Mrs. Miller, please lie still.” I placed a bouquet of carnations on the bedside table, my tone flat. Her lips trembled, and after a long moment, she let out a hoarse sound. “Chloe… are you… are you here to gloat?” I pulled up a chair and sat down, peeling an apple. The peel came off in a long, continuous strip under my hand. “I just came to see you. And to tell you something. Among the dowry my father had prepared, there was a fifty-million-dollar interest-free loan, intended to be injected into Miller Industries after the wedding, to help you through your difficulties.” Snap, the apple peel broke. Mrs. Miller’s eyes widened suddenly, and her breathing became rapid. “What did you say?” “Miller Industries’ cash flow dried up long ago. Did you really think you could hide this indefinitely?” I cut the peeled apple into small pieces and placed them on a plate. “The bank loans are due soon, and several major project suppliers are pressing for payments. Without the Vance family’s funds, Miller Industries… might not make it through the month.” These words, like sharp knives, accurately pierced Mrs. Miller’s heart. She clutched the bedsheets, trembling all over. She had thought her secret was airtight, never imagining that the Vance family had seen through everything. She had sacrificed me, sacrificed the Vance family’s help, only to gain a deception, a colossal scandal. “No… it can’t be…” she murmured, as if going mad. “Rovan will find a way! He’ll save the company!” I smiled softly, a hint of pity in my laughter. “Him? He’s still at the police station giving a statement. What can he use to save it? Sasha’s illegitimate child?” Mrs. Miller’s psychological defenses completely crumbled. She violently grabbed my hand, her nails almost digging into my flesh. “Chloe! Mrs. Miller is begging you! Please help us! Talk to your father! If you’ll just help, I… I’ll make Rovan kneel and apologize to you! I’ll make him drive that woman away! We’ll go back to how things were, alright?” Slowly, one by one, I peeled her fingers off my hand. I stood up, looking down at her. “Mrs. Miller, it’s too late.” Just then, the hospital room door was rudely pushed open. Several grim-faced men entered, the leader holding a document. “Chairman Miller, we’re from Prime Construction Supplies. We heard your company’s alliance with the Vance family fell through? So, about that payment for last month’s shipment, do you think we could settle it today?” Mrs. Miller’s face instantly turned ashen. I turned and walked out of the hospital room, shutting the pleas and commotion behind me. The first step of my revenge had begun.

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I was the wicked fake heiress, raised in a gilded cage since childhood. After I died, my childhood sweetheart, Alexander, publicly released my scandalous photos, calling me a cheap tramp who only knew how to seduce men. Strangers tracked down my family home, shouting that I deserved to die. My parents, eager to distance themselves from my perceived bad karma, burned down the entire mansion overnight. They even fed my ashes to the dogs. Everyone claimed I got what I deserved. Until the day of the true heiress, Evelyn’s, lavish wedding to Alexander. That’s when they received my wedding gift. … Evelyn and Alexander’s grand wedding was packed with guests. My parents sat in the audience, wiping away tears, sniffling, “Evelyn’s finally married, our precious darling.” My spirit drifted in the air, a pang of sorrow in my chest. They used to dote on me just as much. Suddenly, someone called out loudly, “What a perfect match! Lord Alexander and Lady Evelyn, truly made for each other!” “Right? Not like that Imogen. She hogged the Thorne family name for years, but she was always a fraud, a commoner. Even in death, she’s a nuisance.” Evelyn seemed to catch my name. She paused, a faint, scornful smile touching her lips. “Right,” I thought, a bitter self-mockery. “I did usurp her aristocratic life for over two decades. She’s entitled to laugh.” But the next moment, Evelyn looked directly into the livestream camera. “Speaking of which, I actually have Imogen to thank.” “Because she even prepared a wedding gift for us.” “A gift?!” I froze mid-air. “I sent a gift?!” “How could I not know?” Before I could even recall, the audience erupted. “She’s dead, and she’s still pulling stunts? How cunning!” “Arrogant and overbearing in life, and still trying to cause trouble even after death!” “She was so malicious. Is it some kind of curse?” My mother’s face instantly paled, and she shot to her feet. “She used to covet everything Evelyn had! How could she possibly send a gift?!” “Get rid of it! We can’t let such an ill-omened thing spoil Evelyn’s wedding!” Alexander frowned, waving his hand dismissively. “Forget it, don’t bother. It’s certainly nothing good. Let’s just continue with the wedding.” But Evelyn raised a hand, silencing the commotion. “Is that so? I’d like to see what she sent.” My parents tried to object, but Evelyn had already opened the gift box. Inside was a thick journal. I recognized it as mine. But… my belongings were supposed to have been burned by my parents. How could it be here? Before I could ponder further, Evelyn picked up the journal and began to read aloud: February 1st, 2024. The Thorne family’s true daughter, Evelyn, has returned. She’s dark-skinned, thin, and terribly shy. Mom and Dad said Evelyn suffered a lot out there and that I should always defer to her from now on. As she finished, a photo of Evelyn appeared on the big screen, wearing a faded plaid shirt and jeans. It was a picture I’d secretly taken, hiding in a corner that day. Back then, her hair was dry and brittle, her eyes vacant, a stark contrast to the radiant woman she was today. Alexander, seeing the image, angrily ripped off his tie. “Turn it off! Who authorized this?! The past is the past! Evelyn isn’t like that anymore!” “Exactly!” Someone in the audience immediately chimed in. “Imogen is so manipulative! Keeping such an ugly photo!” “Could it be that she resented Evelyn the very first day she came back?!” “It seems all those things Imogen did later to frame Evelyn were premeditated!” Hearing this, my parents were even more furious. “If we’d known she was so vicious, we should have sent her away that very day!” I listened to their words, a knot of complex emotions in my chest. Just one photo, and I was being slandered like this. Evelyn paused, then continued to read. But she didn’t seem to dislike me much. She wiped the sweat from her palms and reached out to me, but I refused. She froze, then quietly asked if I didn’t like her. I was about to answer when my parents’ scolding voices exploded in my ears. Mom said, “It’s Evelyn’s first day back. Can’t you rein in your pampered heiress act?” Dad said, “Do you know what Evelyn went through these past twenty years? If it weren’t for that mix-up, you would have been the one suffering!” I was somewhat bewildered. Just the night before, they had told me that even if Evelyn returned, they would still treat me as their own daughter. I never expected that simply by not shaking Evelyn’s hand, they would reveal their true feelings. But… I only saw the calluses on Evelyn’s hand. I was afraid she’d feel self-conscious. Reading this, a flicker of confusion crossed Evelyn’s eyes, and she instinctively bit her lower lip. Mom reacted, snapping her head up. “I… I might have said that, but she got so out of hand later, I just…” “If she was really thinking of Evelyn, why didn’t she explain herself then? I think she’s just trying to cover her tracks now!” My father hugged her, softly comforting her. “It’s alright. She’s dead; consider it repayment.” Alexander frowned, cutting in. “I think she just didn’t want to accept Evelyn, afraid of losing her position when Evelyn came back!” Evelyn smiled faintly, saying nothing. The next second, her fingers turned to the next page. March 15th, 2024. The accompanying picture was of Alexander kneeling, tying my shoelace. Alexander came today. His first words were that he wanted to break off our engagement. He said that since the true Thorne heiress had returned, his family, the Scott’s, couldn’t possibly marry a fake. But he used to say he was marrying me only because he loved me. We’d known each other for over two decades. Did that count for less than being “real” or “fake”? How could he change so much just because Evelyn returned? I rushed out without thinking, wanting to ask him why. But then I heard him on the phone with a friend, saying, “Imogen’s just an impostor, she really thinks she’s something.” “She’s good for a bit of fun, but for an alliance, you need the real heiress.” The person on the other end said something I couldn’t hear, and he suddenly burst into laughter. “Yeah, it’s a shame, though.” “Five years with her, I was so good to her, and she wouldn’t even let me touch her. What a pretentious little ice queen.” “But that Evelyn… she looks like she’d be easier to get.” That’s when I realized all his past affection was a lie. I was so incredibly sad. I did consider telling Mom and Dad. But as soon as I mentioned Alexander, they assumed I was trying to compete with Evelyn again and wouldn’t give me a chance to speak. What about Evelyn then? I couldn’t just stand by and watch her marry such a scoundrel, could I? But would she even believe me? Reading this, Evelyn instinctively glanced at Alexander. He swallowed hard, then retorted, “She must have been jealous that you were marrying me, that’s why she wrote such nonsense!” Lord and Lady Scott also shot to their feet, roaring, “If my son really said those things, then what about Imogen’s plot to drug my son to get into his bed?!” Whispers started in the audience. “That’s right! On Evelyn’s birthday, Imogen deliberately put something in Alexander’s drink, and the next day, shamelessly demanded he marry her! She can’t deny that!” Evelyn nodded. “Yes, why would she do that?”

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My wife believed money could solve every problem. On our wedding day, she allowed her junior assistant, Ashton, to accost me and call me a homewrecker. Seeing me attacked by the entire internet, she bought out my hurt for a million gold coins. Ashton “accidentally” shattered my father’s precious keepsake. She bought out my tears for three million gold coins. Until Ashton falsely accused me of stealing his watch, threatening to send me to prison. She remarked nonchalantly: “You’re always hovering around him; it’s natural he’d be annoyed. “It’s good that you’ll spend some time in prison to give him some peace. “Tell me, how much for your wounded heart?” “Ten billion gold coins.” I said the astronomical figure, my eyes red. She paused, just for a moment. Then smiled. “Alright.” I watched in shock as she walked away with Ashton. Beneath my hands, covering my face in feigned sadness, I finally couldn’t hold back a laugh: “She finally fell for it!” … Eleanor Howard led Ashton Tipton away, without a backward glance. Leaving me alone, heartbroken on the spot. Even the servants looked on with a mixture of pity and disdain. Some clicked their tongues and shook their heads, calling me a spineless fool. Others sighed mournfully, lamenting that my appeal as a true husband couldn’t even compare to an assistant. I entered the bedroom, eyes red, and slammed the door shut. Finally, I could laugh freely. Ten billion for a six-month prison sentence? Eleanor Howard, Eleanor Howard, you finally took the bait! It was worth all the grievances I’d endured before, repeatedly asking her if she still considered me her husband each time she offered money to soothe my distress. No, I shouldn’t say I was faking it. At first, I truly would throw the money back in her face. Back then, I’d still defiantly say money couldn’t buy love. I wanted my Elara, the Elara who had followed me since childhood, who used to sweetly call me ‘Brother Jackson.’ Later, I realized, a heart that had changed, had simply changed. Since it couldn’t be saved, I might as well make a huge profit. To compensate for our twenty years of shared history. When Eleanor’s car, meant to take me to turn myself in, pulled up downstairs, I feigned heartbreak while gracefully getting into the vehicle. It wasn’t until the navigation veered off the usual route, stopping in front of a secluded warehouse, that I suddenly realized something was wrong. “The driver today… it’s not Eleanor’s usual one, is it?” Just as I was about to jump out of the car, a handkerchief covered my mouth and nose from behind. When I next opened my eyes, I was tied to a chair. A somewhat familiar man stood before me. A phone was held to my ear, and I trembled as I spoke: “Eleanor Howard…” “Jackson? Is that really you!” Eleanor’s tone was momentarily chaotic. The man put the phone back to his own ear. “Did you hear that? If ten billion gold coins aren’t in my account by noon, in ten minutes, I’ll chop off one of his fingers.” “You dare kidnap my person?” Eleanor’s voice held suppressed anger. “Do you know who makes up Howard Security?” The man hesitated. “If you want to live, release him now, and wait quietly to be apprehended. I might consider letting you off the hook later.” “No!” Another man’s voice. My heart tightened. It was Eleanor’s assistant, Ashton Tipton. “Lady Howard, don’t call the authorities! He’s my brother!” Eleanor fell silent. “My brother never went to school. He worked hard to support my education. Without him, I wouldn’t be where I am today, and I wouldn’t have met you, Lady Howard! “He’s just been through some tough times recently. He’s truly desperate. “If you’re going to report him, then… arrest me too!” “What nonsense are you talking about?!” Hearing Eleanor’s voice, I knew she was distressed. No one understood the subtle shifts in her tone better than I did. My shoulders slumped, and I leaned back against the chair. Sure enough, she conceded. “I won’t call the authorities, and my security team won’t bother you. Ten billion is acceptable. “But you must guarantee his safety.” The man smirked. “Money in hand, everything’s negotiable.” I sat in that chair for three hours, not feeling nervous at all. Ten billion wasn’t an impossible sum for Eleanor Howard to produce. I was only worried that she wouldn’t charge this amount to my account. If she later claimed that the ten billion intended for me was used for my ransom, I truly would go mad. Two hours before noon, Eleanor Howard had the money ready. “We agreed, money in the account, you release him. Otherwise, Howard Security won’t let you off easy.” Hearing Eleanor’s warning, the man scoffed. “Of course. I want the money. Bearing a life on my conscience does me no good.” “Alright, I’m transferring it to you now…” “Lady Howard!” It was Ashton’s voice again. “That luxury car I saw earlier has just been released! It’s the only one in the world! If we don’t pay now, someone else will buy it!” Eleanor Howard fell silent once more. I felt a surge of anxiety. “Eleanor Howard!” She paused, then spoke. “Jackson, wait a little longer. That car is his favorite designer’s farewell masterpiece, and it costs exactly ten billion. He’s had his eye on it for a long time.” “But I’m currently…” “Enough! Can’t you even wait an hour?!” Eleanor sounded impatient. “He’s waited three whole years for this car. Can’t you be less selfish?!” I glanced at the clock, nearing eleven, and gritted my teeth. Eleanor turned to the man. “Mr. Tipton, for this last hour, I hope you’ll keep your word and not harm him.” “Of course, as long as you can raise it before twelve.” “Of course.” The call ended just like that. My once-relaxed heart now felt a slight tension. The hands of the clock crept towards twelve, and I felt my impending death drawing closer with each tick. No. I shook my head. Ten billion was no trouble for Eleanor Howard. It was merely a re-allocation of funds. Just a few signatures. Thinking this, my taut muscles gradually relaxed again. But with three minutes left until twelve, I grew tense once more. No call came in. No transfer came in. The man was starting to look impatient too. Seeing his cold eyes, I could only offer a forced smile. “She’ll definitely get it. Don’t worry. We’ve known each other since we were five. Twenty years of friendship; she wouldn’t really refuse you.” “Jackson Hayes.” He spoke coldly, “I’m at the end of my rope. If I don’t get this money today, I’m dying with you.” I swallowed hard. “She wouldn’t… she’ll give it…” The TV on the wall interrupted with a news flash. The moment I saw the screen, my heart sank. 【Renowned Designer’s Final Masterpiece Sells Out Upon Release】 【Mystery Tycoon Spends Ten Billion for Beloved Partner】 It was… a live broadcast. Ashton Tipton sat in the exquisitely designed luxury car, looking like an international superstar. Eleanor Howard sat in the passenger seat, smiling and waving to the crowd with him. It created iconic images. Soon, Ashton’s brother, Caleb Tipton, saw the trending hot topic. The hour hand reached twelve. I swallowed. “Your brother has a ten billion luxury car, so actually… it’s like you have it too.” “Cut that out!” My neck was suddenly gripped. He frowned, looking at me. “It wasn’t easy for us brothers to get where we are today. I will never use my brother’s money. “Since time’s up, Jackson Hayes, I have no other choice.” My hand was violently yanked and slammed onto the table. My nerves instantly tightened. “Wait! Let me call her!” He frowned. I pleaded, “She must have… she must have forgotten. Let me call her. She’ll send the money quickly! “Forget ten billion, twenty billion… it’s even possible!” Caleb Tipton paused. Then suddenly smiled. “I have a better idea.” This time, Caleb made a video call. The moment Eleanor saw me, she frowned. “Wait a little longer. Ashton values this public appearance opportunity greatly. Don’t cause trouble randomly.” “I didn’t! I… ah!” A needle jabbed into my neck. My pupils instantly constricted. The next second, the nail of my pinky finger was brutally pulled off with pliers. “Jackson!” Eleanor’s eyes widened. My body convulsed uncontrollably. “Damn it… why does it hurt so much… it shouldn’t hurt this much, ahh!!” “Jackson!” “Lady Howard.” Caleb held my fingernail up to the camera. “I injected him with a serum that amplifies pain tenfold. Just pulling off a nail will make him wish for death.” “Do you want to die?!” Eleanor’s eyes were red. “Lady Howard, I told you, ten minutes, I cut off a finger. Twelve o’clock has already passed.” “No… don’t!” My hand was forcibly pressed onto the table. He was about to sacrifice my first finger. Eleanor panicked. “I’m paying now!” “Lady Howard, no!” It was… Ashton again! In the camera, Ashton looked at my hand in shock, then frowned. “Brother! You’ve gone too far!!” “Brother, I…” Caleb looked somewhat flustered. Ashton turned, pleadingly looking at Eleanor. “Lady Howard! You can’t give him the money!” Eleanor and I both froze. “No, Jackson can’t endure the pain.” “Still no!” Ashton was agitated. “Lady Howard, I didn’t expect my brother to go this far this time. If you give him the money, he’ll do it again! “This time it’s Mr. Hayes he’s kidnapped, and you’ll help me, Lady Howard, but what about later? If he kidnaps someone else and gets caught, I won’t have a brother anymore!” Eleanor fell into deep thought. “So, Lady Howard, I beg you, let me talk him out of it. He listens to me most. If he can turn over a new leaf this time, it won’t just save you, Lady Howard, but also me and my brother!” “Eleanor Howard, don’t listen to him!” I was in such pain I was almost insane. “His brother is already mad! No one can persuade him! “He just wants to see me suffer! That bastard!” “Mr. Hayes, you!” Ashton’s eyes instantly reddened. Eleanor shielded him. “You’re mad! He’s actively trying to save you! Is this how you speak to your savior? “You’re so self-centered, don’t assume everyone else is like you!” “Eleanor Howard, I…” Ashton cut me off. “Mr. Hayes, I’ll go persuade my brother in a bit. Don’t worry, I won’t let anything happen to you.” Eleanor frowned. “Ashton is entirely focused on saving you, yet you slander him so much. Do you deserve him?” Then she hung up the phone directly. But just as I had said before, there was no way Ashton could persuade Caleb to back down. Not only did he not. After Caleb hung up with his brother, his gaze towards me became even more sinister. “My brother said you not only stole his woman, but you’ve repeatedly targeted him?” I trembled, begging him not to. But I could only watch as he clamped the pliers onto my finger. “I’ve reached the end of my rope. I’m willing to die. “But luckily, before I die, I can drag a bastard like you down with me!” “No!!” I fell into complete despair. Luckily, Ashton’s call interrupted his action. He answered, but it wasn’t Ashton on the screen; it was Eleanor Howard. “Jackson!” The moment she saw me, her eyes widened in disbelief.

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On New Year’s Eve, the year I got into university, my parents’ gift to me was to reveal our family held billions in assets. For the first time in fifteen years, I stepped out of that cramped, thirty-five square meter rental apartment. Gazing at the opulent mansion before me, I asked, “Why did you lie to me?” My mother, her arm around a girl who looked seventy percent like me, her face beaming with pride, said, “This is your sister, Cindy. When we found her, she was deeply infatuated, ready to die for some penniless boy.” “To show her how pathetic a life without money can be, our entire family acted out this charade for you.” “See? You got into university on your own merit, and your sister finally saw the poor boy for who he truly was, and is now willing to come home and inherit the family business. These fifteen years were worth it!” My sister looked at me with disdain. “Thanks to having you as a comparison, otherwise, I might have truly believed love conquered all.” So, my fifteen years of suffering were just a grand, elaborate play designed to highlight her and educate her? 1 “Snap.” The crystal chandelier in the villa’s living room stung my eyes, making me instinctively raise a hand to shield them. My hands were rough, chapped, and my knuckles slightly deformed from years of manual labor. “Don’t cover your eyes, Lyra.” My mother’s voice carried an unfamiliar air of elegance and nonchalance. “This is our real home. To celebrate you getting into a prestigious university, and to celebrate your sister, Cindy, finding her way back, today, we have double good news.” I lowered my hand, my vision blurring for a moment, finally focusing on the girl sitting squarely in the center of the sofa. She looked seventy percent like me, her skin glowing white. She was now scrutinizing me with an expression one might reserve for a stray dog. “Mom, is this my… ‘control group’?” The girl spoke, her voice soft and tender. “She does look quite miserable,tsk. Her hair is as dry as straw. If that poor boy saw her dressed so shabbily, he’d probably run for the hills overnight.” I stood frozen, the canvas sneakers on my feet felt scorching hot like branding irons. “What do you mean?” I heard my own voice trembling. My father sat in a single armchair, no longer holding a cheap cigarette but a fine cigar. “It means, your fifteen years of poverty are over.” “Lyra, fifteen years ago we found your sister, Cindy Gant. She was foolish back then, insistent on eloping with a petty thug.” “To teach her a lesson, to make her understand the misery of a penniless marriage, we decided to use you as a negative example.” “We lived with you in that rental, ate leftovers, wore secondhand clothes, all to show your sister how pathetic a person lives without money, like a dog.” Boom! I stared at the people I had called Mom and Dad for fifteen years, watching the taken-for-granted expressions on their faces. “Acting?” I took a step forward, my voice hoarse. “Then the year I had that high fever in junior high, and you said we had no money for a doctor, making me drink ginger tea and try to sweat it out, nearly getting pneumonia—that was acting too?” “Me, fainting in gym class from hunger, trying to save lunch money for study guides—that was acting too?” “My hands, covered in chilblains in winter, still having to fold cardboard boxes to earn living expenses—that was acting too?” My mother frowned, as if my questions were too noisy. “Alright, don’t bring up those old, dusty grieGants. If it weren’t for that, would you have gotten into a top university? You should thank us for giving you this opportunity to temper your will.” Cindy set down her cup and walked towards me. A wave of expensive perfume washed over me, masking the persistent damp, musty smell that clung to my own clothes. “Sister, one must learn to be content.” “These fifteen years, Mom and Dad may have neglected you materially, but they gave you immense spiritual wealth.” “Look at me. Though I lived a life of luxury, I nearly let love cloud my judgment. It was watching you struggle like an ant, turning red-faced over a few coins, that finally made me realize.” She leaned in close to my ear, chuckling softly. “Watching you walk for miles to save two gold coins on bus fare, watching you be humiliated for a part-time job slot, I truly thought… money is wonderful.” “You are the best wake-up call of my life.” I trembled all over, my blood seemingly flowing backward. The best wake-up call? My fifteen years of blood and tears, my countless nights of weeping, my self-respect humbled to dust. In their eyes, all of it was just teaching material to educate another daughter? “You… you’re disgusting.” I forced the words through gritted teeth. “Slap!” A sharp slap landed heavily on my face. “You insolent girl! Is that how you speak to your sister?” “Are you getting too big for your britches?” “Now that you know the truth, know your place! In this house, Cindy is the moon in the sky, and you’re at most a firefly on the ground. Don’t even dream of comparing yourself to her!” I clutched my burning face, tasting a hint of blood in my mouth. In that moment, I finally understood. That thirty-five square meter rental apartment wasn’t my hell. This opulent mansion was. “Alright, stop making that morbid face.” My mother shot me a disgusted glance, then turned to Cindy, her face full of doting affection. “Cindy, take your sister to the mall tomorrow, buy her some decent clothes. Your grandfather’s birthday banquet is in a few days. Don’t let her shabby appearance embarrass the Thorne family.” Cindy casually filed her nails. “Got it. I could use a bag-holder anyway.” The next day, I was taken to the city’s most exclusive department store. For fifteen years, I had passed by it countless times, never daring to glance inside. The air conditioning inside was strong, raising goosebumps on my skin. Cindy walked ahead, her heels clicking crisply on the marble floor. I followed behind, feeling like a beggar who had stumbled into a heavenly palace. “This one, this one, and that one too.” Cindy pointed casually at a few dresses, and the sales associate immediately took them down with a beaming smile. “Go try them on.” She tossed the clothes to me. I walked into the fitting room, cradling garments with five-figure price tags. The girl in the mirror was sallow and gaunt, her collarbones prominent, ribs clearly visible. I put on a pink lace dress. It was beautiful. But on me, it hung loosely, making me look like a clown in stolen adult clothes. I walked out of the fitting room. Cindy was sitting on a sofa, drinking coffee. She burst out laughing when she saw me. “Oh my God, Mom, look.” She pulled out her phone and snapped a picture of me. “How does that dress look like a rag on her? She can’t carry it at all.” My mother chimed in. “No help for it, her foundation is too poor. Not eating well for fifteen years, her development is stunted. Not like our Cindy, a natural clothes horse.” The sales associate offered an awkward smile. “The second young lady is indeed… a bit too thin.” “Thin? That’s poverty-stricken.” Cindy walked over, reaching out to pinch the meager flesh on my arm. “Tsk, tsk, all bone, hard to touch.” “But then again, if we’d fed you well and made you plump back then, how else would I have learned about the hardships of the common folk?” “I’m not buying anything.” I said softly, turning to go back into the fitting room. “Stop right there.” My mother’s cold voice cut through the air. “Who gave you permission to throw a tantrum? Buying you clothes is a privilege. Don’t be ungrateful.” “This one, and those other ones she tried on, wrap them all up.” She pulled out a black card and handed it to the sales associate. “Wear these clothes, and get rid of that impoverished aura. Remember, you are a Thorne daughter. Even if you’re just a foil, don’t be too embarrassing.” Returning home, it was dinner time. The long dining table was laden with dishes I didn’t recognize. Australian lobster, black truffle foie gras, and sashimi still nestled on ice. I sat at the far end, picking up a knife and fork, my hands somewhat stiff. For fifteen years, I had only used bamboo chopsticks, two gold coins a pair. “Hmph.” A soft laugh reached my ears. Cindy cut a piece of steak, her eyes full of amusement as she watched me. “Mom, look at how she holds her knife. Doesn’t it look like she’s sawing wood?” The entire family’s attention focused on my hands. I was struggling to cut through the medium-rare steak, the blade scraping against the plate with a harsh, grating sound. My father frowned, cursing, “You ill-mannered girl!” “You can’t even eat properly. What have you learned in these fifteen years?” I put down my knife and fork, lowering my head, looking at the bloody steak on my plate, my stomach churning. “I’m sorry.” “What good is ‘I’m sorry’?” Cindy elegantly wiped the corner of her mouth, her tone dismissive. “Some things, you know, are ingrained in the bone. Even if you wear a royal robe, you won’t look like a prince.” “Sister, your destiny is to eat street food your whole life.” My mother sighed, pushing a barely touched salad in front of me. “Alright, don’t waste good food. You eat this. It’s healthy and suits your stomach.” I picked up the fork, one cold leaf after another, mechanically chewing and swallowing. Like training a newly adopted stray dog. The month before university started was the longest agony of my life. In this house, I lived like a transparent ghost, or a servant on call. At Cindy’s parties, I was the tea-serving attendant; when Cindy went shopping, I was the bag-carrying labor; when Cindy was in a bad mood, I was her emotional trash bin. I endured. Because I held my university acceptance letter. I was the top science student in the province. With that score, I had secured a national scholarship for overseas study, fully funded, to pursue computer science at a world-renowned university. As long as I survived this summer, I could escape, completely free myself from this twisted family. This was my only hope. That night, I was organizing my visa documents in my room. The door was suddenly pushed open, without a knock. My mother walked in, followed by Cindy, who had a playful look on her face. “What are you doing?” My mother casually flipped through the documents on my desk, her gaze falling on the red public scholarship certificate. “Packing, preparing for university.” I took the certificate back, carefully tucking it into a folder. “Oh, that.” My mother sat down nonchalantly. “Lyra, we need to discuss something with you.” “What is it?” “Your sister also wants to study abroad, but her grades… you know, she neglected her studies because of dating.” My mother paused, glancing at Cindy. Cindy was leisurely fiddling with my passport. “So?” I stared intensely at my mother. “So, we want you to give that scholarship slot to your sister.” “What did you say?” I looked at her in disbelief. “How can I give it to her? It’s registered under my name! I earned this through my hard work!” “Oh, don’t get so agitated.” My mother frowned. “Your father has already made arrangements. As long as you sign a voluntary relinquishment statement and write a letter of recommendation, plus the building our family donated to the university, transferring the slot won’t be an issue.” “Why should I?” “This is my only way out! I earned this by studying day and night, ruining my eyes, wearing down my body!” “If Cindy Gant wants to study abroad, your family has billions. You can send her anywhere! Why steal my scholarship slot?” “Because I want the prestige.” Cindy tossed the passport back onto the desk, speaking airily. “Going abroad with money is just ‘gilding.’ It doesn’t sound good. A scholarship student, that’s a genius, an academic star. I need that title to command respect when I take over the company later.” She walked up to me, her finger poking my shoulder. “Besides, sister. Someone like you, who only knows how to bury herself in books, will just be a bookworm abroad. I’m different. I need this platform to expand my network, to see the world.” “This opportunity would be wasted on you. Better to give it to me, so I can create value for the family.” “I won’t sign.” I gritted my teeth, fiercely guarding the folder. “This is my life. You have no right to take it.” “Lyra Thorne!” A furious roar came from the doorway. My father walked in. “Are you getting too big for your britches? Us discussing it with you is a privilege!” “Your very life was given by me, and your education was funded by me! Without this family, what are you?” “Funded me?” I laughed, tears streaming down my face. “For fifteen years, my tuition was fully waived, and my living expenses came from folding cardboard boxes and collecting bottles! Did you ever give me a single coin?” “That’s because we gave you life!” My father strode over, snatching the folder from my arms. “Today, you will sign this, whether you want to or not!” “Give it back! That’s mine!” I lunged, desperate to grab it. “Slap!” My father backhanded me, sending me sprawling to the ground. The folder fell, its papers scattering. Cindy walked over, her heel grinding hard on the red certificate. “You chose the hard way.” She looked down at me. “Sister, you don’t actually think you can escape our grasp, do you?”

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The winter break was just around the corner, and my parents had booked us a luxurious cruise. My roommate, Chloe, burst into tears the moment she heard, calling my mom. “Godmother, have you forgotten you have another daughter?” After my mom politely refused, Chloe started crying and throwing a fit in our dorm room. “How can there be such biased parents in the world? We’re both their daughters, why treat me differently?” I was stunned. She’d only stayed at my place for a while, and now she genuinely thought she was my parents’ biological child. “Phoebe, are you really planning to go on vacation with your parents and just leave me alone at home?” Her question completely bewildered me. “Aren’t you going back to your own home for the break? You’re not actually planning to come to my house, are you?” Chloe’s family lived in another state, so she usually stayed in the dorms on weekends. Fearing she might get bored alone, I’d invited her to my place once. The moment she stepped inside, she exclaimed, “Phoebe, I’ve never lived in such a big, comfortable house! Can I stay here forever?” Out of politeness, I’d casually said, “Sure, you can.” From then on, every weekend, Chloe would come and stay at my house. My mom knew she was my roommate and always made sure there was plenty of good food whenever she visited. Chloe was also quite sensible, helping with chores like mopping floors and wiping tables. My dad would always try to stop her when he saw her working. “Chloe, you don’t need to do any of this. Go watch TV with Phoebe.” “It’s alright, Uncle. I do these things often at home.” “Look at Chloe, such a well-behaved child. If only you were my daughter too, I’d have two little darlings.” I never expected that one joke would lead Chloe to take it so seriously. “Why don’t I call you my godparents? Then Phoebe and I would be like sisters. I’m older than Phoebe, so I’d be the big sister.” “Godparents, I’ll take care of you both with Phoebe from now on!” My mom looked awkward. “Uncle and Auntie know you have a good heart, but we don’t really do godparents in our family.” Chloe seemed not to hear, continuing to call them “Godmother” and “Godfather.” My mom tried to correct her, but my dad secretly whispered, “Let her call us whatever she wants. Don’t make the child feel embarrassed.” It continued until winter break. I thought we could finally enjoy some family time, just the three of us. I never expected her to want to come to my house again! Chloe looked at me pitifully. “Phoebe, I couldn’t get a train ticket home, so I guess I’ll have to stay at your place this winter break.” “I’m your big sister, you wouldn’t really turn me away from home, would you?” I was already annoyed. “Chloe, I don’t care if you call us sisters. But this winter break, our family of three is going on a trip, and there won’t be anyone home.” “And it’s almost the holidays, wouldn’t your family mind if you didn’t go home?” “In my heart, I only have this one home. Whether I go back to that other house or not doesn’t really matter. Since you three are going on a trip, I guess I’ll just stay at home by myself.” I almost doubted my ears. “Did I hear that right? You’re planning to stay at my house all by yourself for the entire winter break?” “Yes, is that not allowed?” “Absolutely not!” I refused outright. “I’m sorry, but it’s not convenient to let you stay in my house alone. You’ll have to find a way to buy a ticket and go back to your own home.” Chloe didn’t say anything else, and I assumed she’d accepted it. But on the day we were leaving for break, when my parents drove to pick me up, Chloe showed up with her luggage. My parents and I stared at her, dumbfounded. She stood before us, looking a little flustered. “Godparents, can I come home with you?” “I know you’re going on a trip, but you don’t have to worry about me. I’ll be good staying at home alone!” “I can help you watch the house, and help with cleaning!” “My parents only gave me enough money for a cheap train ticket, and they’re so hard to get. I couldn’t get one to go home.” “Everyone’s gone home for the holidays, even the dorm supervisor. I’m really scared to stay in the dorms by myself.” She started tearing up as she spoke. My dad’s heart softened, and he opened the car door. “Get in.” Chloe immediately beamed, picking up her luggage and climbing into the car. I was pretty unhappy, feeling she was far too comfortable, but knowing we’d be roommates for another three and a half years of college, I decided not to make a scene. Back home, Chloe put down her luggage and immediately went to the kitchen to help wash vegetables. “Godparents, you’ve worked so hard. Let me make dinner tonight.” She was always so sensible, voluntarily taking on chores, and even offering to massage my parents’ shoulders. My dad always liked to compare me to her. “Look at Chloe, if only you were half as sensible as her, we’d be content!” But in reality, every time Chloe offered to help, my parents would never let her. After all, she was a guest, and how could we make a guest do work? Sure enough, as soon as Chloe put the vegetables in the sink, my mom pushed her out of the kitchen. “Go watch TV. Let Phoebe help me with the vegetables.” I rolled up my sleeves and went into the kitchen. “Mom, Chloe has offered to cook for us so many times, but I’ve never actually eaten her cooking. Today’s a good chance for her to show off her skills. You go rest.” I pushed my mom out of the kitchen, then beckoned to Chloe. “What are you waiting for? Start cooking.” Chloe reluctantly tied on an apron. She actually managed to whip up four dishes, all of which my parents loved. My parents were even more fond of her after that. “Chloe, I can’t believe you’re only eighteen and you cook so well. My Phoebe can only wash vegetables; she can’t even steam rice.” “If Godmother likes it, I’ll cook for you every day.” After saying that, she shot me a triumphant glance. “Phoebe, you should learn from Chloe. When we’re not home, you just order takeout, which isn’t healthy.” “It’s okay, Godfather. I can cook for Phoebe from now on.” “Oh, and are you leaving for your trip tomorrow? I’m so envious of Phoebe, getting to travel every break. The furthest I’ve ever been is from home to school.” My dad looked a little pained hearing that, and he turned to my mom. “How about we let Chloe come with us?” Before my mom could even speak, Chloe was already excitedly tearing up. “Thank you, Godfather, can I really go?” Then she looked at my mom expectantly. My mom’s lips parted, and she finally said, “I’ll ask the travel agency if there’s still room.” A moment later, my mom said, “I’m sorry, Chloe, but the travel agency says they’re fully booked. There’s no way to add another person. Next time, we’ll go together another time if we get the chance.” Disappointment flashed in Chloe’s eyes, but she could only nod and say okay. After dinner, Chloe followed me into my bedroom. She suddenly said in a chilling voice, “You should have told me earlier that you were going on a trip. If you had, Godparents could have taken me too.” I couldn’t be bothered to respond, and just grabbed my change of clothes and headed to the bathroom to shower. When I came out after my shower, I suddenly slipped and fell at the bathroom door. I clutched my leg, sweating from the pain. “Who moved the non-slip mat from the doorway? Why is there shower gel all over the floor? No wonder it’s so slippery!” My mom helped me up, asking Chloe, “Did you move the non-slip mat? And spill shower gel everywhere?” Chloe looked remorseful. “Oh, I accidentally spilled some shower gel earlier, and I thought I’d take the mat to scrub it clean. But before I could finish, Phoebe came out. I really didn’t mean to.” She looked on the verge of tears. “Phoebe, are you okay? I’m so sorry.” My dad helped me up. “We need to go to the hospital. Our daughter took a bad fall.” The whole family went to the emergency room with me. After a thorough check-up, thankfully, no bones were broken. But my ankle and knee were swollen like balloons, and I needed help to walk. Chloe said worriedly, “Phoebe fell so badly, she definitely can’t go on the trip tomorrow. It’s all my fault. Will the tour fees we paid be wasted?” “Godmother, can the tour fees be refunded? What if they can’t? It’s so much money, it would be such a waste for no one to go.” I couldn’t go, so she’d just slot right in. Chloe’s hints were quite obvious, but my parents just didn’t take the bait. “Then none of us will go. We’ll stay home and take care of Phoebe.” Chloe was a bit displeased, but she quickly composed herself. “Godparents, you go ahead and enjoy your trip. I’ll take care of Phoebe.” I also said, “Yes, Mom and Dad, you go have fun. Chloe and I will be more comfortable at home anyway.” My parents, persuaded by me, ultimately decided to go on the trip. Only Chloe and I were left at home. “You deliberately caused me to slip yesterday, didn’t you?” It wasn’t a question; it was an accusation. “Oh, I really didn’t mean to. Why would you think such bad things about me? Godparents didn’t even blame me, why are you still dwelling on yesterday?” She opened the fridge and unceremoniously took out some durian and cherries, beginning to eat. “Order some takeout quickly, I’m starving. Order plenty, I’ve invited my friends over. There are five of them, and they eat a lot, so don’t be stingy and make them laugh.” “Your friends are coming to my house?” “Yes, this is my house too. Can’t I invite my friends over to play?” I was about to explode with anger. “No, you should at least ask me before inviting your friends over! This is my house. You’re just my roommate. You really think this is your own home!” Chloe stood up abruptly. “How is this not my home? I’ve adopted godparents, so this is my home!” “Godparents told me to treat this as my own home. They like me very much. You’re the only one who treats me like an outsider!” “Chloe, are you really so oblivious to polite language?” “Alright, that’s enough. My friends will be here soon. I don’t want to argue with you. If you don’t want to stay, you can leave.” “This is my home, why should I leave!” Just then, there was a knock at the door. Chloe immediately went to open it. “Oh, you’re finally here! I was just about to order takeout. What do you guys want to eat?” “I want steak!” “I want Japanese food!” There were five girls, some from other departments, and others she knew from a part-time job. Chloe simply grabbed my phone, opened the takeout app, and started choosing. “Chloe, that’s my phone!” “I know, darling. Oh, my sweet little sister, my friends are here. Don’t you think you should be a good host and treat them to something nice?” I held out my hand. “Your own friends, you entertain them yourself. Give me back my phone!” “It won’t cost you much. Don’t be so stingy.” I couldn’t walk properly, so I couldn’t snatch it back from her. Chloe held my phone and ordered for a long time, then threw it back to me. “Thanks, little sister.”

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I was seeing a new man behind my first patron, Aaron Nash’s back, when I unexpectedly got pregnant with the new man’s baby. Just as I was fretting, I discovered Aaron had always been secretly in love with his step-sister. Without a second thought, I decided to find a stand-in for him. I finally found a college student, Lily Evans, who looked about 70% like Aaron Nash’s step-sister. She signed a contract with me: if she successfully took my place, she’d give me half of her monthly allowance. As expected, Aaron was drawn to her, and I, the ‘difficult’ girlfriend, was swiftly shown the door. Watching the cold, hard numbers in my bank account grow each month, I smiled. If I couldn’t have a man’s heart, I’d certainly have his money! … The third time I called Aaron Nash back from work for some frivolous reason, he finally snapped. “Viola Bernard! Can you please stop being so dramatic? Do you have nothing else to do all day? You’re so idle!” I covered my face, feigning hurt. “Aaron, you’ve changed. You weren’t like this before.” He used to patiently indulge my every whim, treating me like a pampered, delicate trophy wife. Aaron was utterly fed up. “Viola, I’m warning you, know your place. Don’t get carried away by a little kindness. Understand your position and stop overstepping.” Aaron was truly angry. Before, I would have backed down, appeased him, and kept him from getting upset. But today, I was breaking up with him. “Aaron! You don’t love me anymore! I want to break up with you!” Aaron’s voice was volatile. “Then break up!” He pointed at me. “Viola, do you honestly think we were in a relationship? You were nothing more than a plaything. Stop flattering yourself.” Aaron’s words were too harsh, and I, being overly emotional, genuinely started to cry. “Pack your things tomorrow. Move out immediately.” I choked back a sob. “What about severance?” I instinctively clutched my belly. Raising a child costs a fortune. I needed to fleece him for as much as I could get. Aaron couldn’t possibly be that stingy, could he? He had indeed become stingier. He tossed a card at me. “Here’s five million. Take the money and get out.” It used to be at least eight million. Aaron left. I quickly packed my things, and on a whim, sold all the expensive furniture in the house. Anything Aaron had given me, even the costly mattress, I took with me. My bank account instantly swelled with cash. Just then, Lily called. “Sister, did you break up with Mr. Nash?” “Yes, yes, just now.” Lily let out a sigh of relief, her voice light. “Sister, don’t you worry. From now on, even if Aaron only gives me a dollar, I’ll give you fifty cents.” “Good. That’s very thoughtful of you.” I couldn’t help but advise her, “Remember to keep Aaron’s preferences and dislikes firmly in mind, and really grasp his step-sister’s personal style.” “I absolutely will.” Lily was very eager. As long as she could live a life of luxury, she’d do anything. After hanging up, I single-handedly cleared out the entire walk-in closet, my back aching from the effort. Lily was the new trophy wife I’d found for Aaron. A month ago, I had discovered I was pregnant, and the child wasn’t his. Coincidentally, I also found out that Aaron was deeply, yet subtly, in love with his estranged step-sister. To protect the baby inside me, I had no choice but to take a risk and personally find a stand-in for Aaron. I finally chose Lily, who bore a striking resemblance to his step-sister. As expected, Aaron took an interest in Lily, and I was finally free to exit. My belongings filled four large moving trucks. Seeing all my treasures, I was so excited I wiped away tears. The housekeeper spoke up, “Miss Bernard, perhaps you should be a little more amenable with Mr. Nash. He still cares for you deep down.” No, no. Aaron had become stingy lately. Even if I blamed the baby in my belly on him, I wouldn’t get much out of it. Even without Lily, he would eventually lose interest over time. This variable was better controlled by me, and I could earn double the money. The housekeeper sighed, and the next second, he saw Aaron and Lily by his side. Lily clung to his arm like a delicate bird, looking at me with feigned unfamiliarity. The housekeeper stammered, “Mr. Nash, Miss Bernard is moving out.” Aaron’s tone was cold. “Viola, once a breakup happens, there’s no going back. Don’t be so stubborn.” Lily looked nervous, clearly afraid I might change my mind. My eyes reddened. “Aaron, you changed your mind a long time ago, didn’t you? Is this woman your new favorite?” Aaron forced a smile. “I don’t need only you.” “Butler, from now on, Lily will live here. Don’t ever mention Viola Bernard again.” I clenched my fists and covered my face, barely stifling a laugh. This was perfect! Feigning distress, I got into the passenger seat of the moving truck, continuously covering my face. Below, Aaron’s expression was complex, a flicker of pain in his eyes. I had never traveled in such a common vehicle before. I was always chauffeured, never letting my feet touch the ground if possible. Aaron said, “Once the arrow is shot, there’s no turning back. Take care of yourself.” I nodded vigorously, hoping we would never cross paths again. He handed me another card. “This is the last time I’m giving you money. Take care.” I hadn’t expected to receive more money, and I felt a bit guilty. Yesterday, I’d complained about the small severance and sold all the furniture. Now the villa was empty. The housekeeper probably thought I was being petty, selling everything just to spite Aaron, as if I actually needed the money. The truck driver pulled away, and I let out a huge sigh of relief. Before I even reached my new home, I received a transfer from Lily: five hundred thousand. [Lily]: Sister, how did you make Mr. Nash love you so much? My monthly allowance is a million. I’ve never seen so much money in my life. I really want to be this rich forever. I gave her serious advice. [Me]: Do your job well and mimic Anya Nash, but whatever you do, don’t let him find out you’re deliberately imitating her. Otherwise, he’ll turn on you. Lily was obedient and took my words as gospel. Back home, I popped open a bottle of champagne for myself as the moving company slowly put everything in its place. The next day, I woke up in Leo Hayes’s arms. My consciousness hadn’t fully awakened, but my face was nestled comfortably in Leo’s chest. “Baby, you finally moved in here.” “Honey, I was just so busy before. From now on, I’ll be with you every day.” Saying this, I kissed Leo’s face. He was my second patron and the biological father of the child in my belly. The economy might be in a slump recently, which was why Aaron had become less generous. I was afraid of being dumped by him and struggling, so I decided to prepare a backup plan and found a new patron. Leo made me breakfast, and I checked my bank balance while I ate. Aaron had spent more money on Lily. Lily was quite honest; the first thing she did after getting the money wasn’t to enjoy it, but to split it with me immediately. “Baby, who are you chatting with?” I casually brushed him off. “Just a friend.” Leo reached out and pinched the flesh on my cheek. “You seem to have gained a lot of weight recently; you look quite plump.” “Isn’t being a little plump good? You used to say I was too thin.” I hadn’t told Leo about the pregnancy because I was afraid he’d drag me to a clinic for an abortion. I didn’t dare to gamble on the consciences of these wealthy men. I would only tell him about the child’s existence when I was further along and everything was settled. With this child, I would be set for life. Leo kissed me. “I love you no matter how you look.” After breakfast, Leo left for work. Almost immediately after, Lily called me, her voice excited. “Sister, last night I slept with Aaron, and he called out Anya Nash’s name in my ear.” “Good thing I pretended to pass out from pleasure, otherwise I wouldn’t have known how to act.” I chuckled. “Next time, just pretend you didn’t hear it, or directly ask who that person is.” Aaron would smooth it over anyway. He and Anya could never be together, constrained by their identities and by convention. “The world of the rich is so messy! He was pretty angry yesterday when he saw the empty villa, and he even cursed at you a bit.” “What did he say about me?” I felt a little surge of excitement. How could Aaron be like that? Couldn’t we have ended things amicably? Why did he have to curse me? Lily repeated all the insults. “He called you a drama queen, materialistic, and high-maintenance.” Hearing this, I let out a sigh of relief. This wasn’t really cursing me; this was just my true nature. When I first met Aaron, he liked my straightforward, uncomplicated personality. He said he could see right through me, which made him feel secure. So people change so quickly; one moment they like you, the next they despise you. My acceptance was high, just as I, upon discovering Aaron was spending less on me, immediately sought out a new patron. “Sister, don’t worry, I’ll be your eyes and ears and relentlessly extract money from him.” I cautioned her, “Don’t be too greedy at first. If he gives it to you, take it, but don’t constantly ask for more; it makes you look cheap.” “He’s most accommodating in bed. Just seize that opportunity to ‘rob’ him.” Lily spoke sweetly, then started showering me with compliments. “Sister, you’re still the best. No wonder Aaron is so obsessed with you.” She went on and on, eventually complimenting my looks and figure. “Sister! You’re a goddess descended from heaven. A beautiful woman like you, even I’m in love with you!” I rolled my eyes. “Alright, stop. You get back to work.” After hanging up, I secretly went to the hospital for a check-up. If I could, I’d check every day. Just as I got my results, I ran into Aaron. He walked towards me. “Viola Bernard, what are you doing here?” He subconsciously glanced at my medical report, which I quickly hid. “None of your business. You and I are ancient history.” Aaron chuckled. “Viola, you’re not still throwing a tantrum, are you? I pampered you too much all these years, that’s why you’ve gotten so audacious.” “Last night, Lily and I slept together.” Aaron was trying to find regret or sorrow on my face. But he was clearly disappointed. I was perfectly fine with it. Not just after the breakup, but even if I had known he was with other women while we were still together, I wouldn’t have been particularly sad. I’d only be scared of being dumped unprepared. “That’s great. I wish you happiness.” I clutched the report, eager to leave, but he grabbed my wrist. “What’s wrong with you? Why are you suddenly at the hospital?” I found Aaron’s words very strange and casually brushed him off. “Just a check-up.” I pulled free from his grip and walked away. His gaze behind me was so intense that I didn’t dare to look back. I couldn’t let him know I was pregnant, or I’d be completely ruined. Getting pregnant after a breakup was one thing; getting pregnant before was cheating on him. No man would tolerate that. Aaron’s face was grim. He felt Viola had lost a lot of weight. He pulled out his phone and made a call. “Check on Viola Bernard, why she’s at the hospital, and send me her medical report.” When I got home, I found a strange woman in my living room. I couldn’t help but be wary, asking her flatly, “Who are you? How did you get into my house?” Autumn Hayes scrutinized me. “So you’re the woman my brother’s keeping?” It turned out to be Leo’s sister. I breathed a sigh of relief; as long as she wasn’t some random woman, it was fine. Even if Leo changed his mind, it had to wait until the baby was born. “Hello, sister. I’m Viola Bernard.” Autumn looked disdainful. “Don’t call me that. A woman like you isn’t fit to enter the Hayes family home.” I smiled. “Oh, I wouldn’t dare. Your brother is just having some fun with me, a temporary novelty.” Hearing me say this, Autumn’s expression was odd, as if she were uncomfortable. She’d thought it would take some effort to make Viola understand her place. Autumn’s voice rose. “Good that you know!” I kept smiling. In my line of work, you had to have a good mindset. Without it, you couldn’t do this job. You couldn’t have it all. A few minutes later, Leo returned. He saw Autumn, his brows slightly furrowed. “What are you doing here? Haven’t I told you not to just walk into this house?” Autumn looked a little angry. “Brother! Are you afraid I’ll disturb your little hideaway?” “Good that you know.” Leo glanced at me, then quickly pushed her out the door. “Go quickly. Are you out of things to do, or just bored?” Autumn clung frantically to the door, shouting, “I’m not leaving! I don’t want to leave!” I sighed. “Leo, let her in. It’s not too late to eat dinner before she leaves.” Leo relented, and Autumn quickly scurried in, giving me a look that said, “You’re smart.” To maintain my image as a reasonable person, I voluntarily went into the kitchen to cook. Leo was touched, kissing me. “So thoughtful. I’ll bring you a gift tomorrow.” As I was cooking, I didn’t realize my phone, left in the living room, was ringing. Autumn picked it up without thinking. “Hello? Who is this?” The caller said, “Let Viola answer the phone.” Autumn frowned. “What do you want? What’s your relationship with her?” Aaron’s voice was complex. “I’m her husband. She’s pregnant, and the child is mine.”

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