My older sister, Penny, has brittle bone disease. Our home was a fortress of safety rails and padded corners. I was never allowed toys, running, or jumping, lest I distract or endanger Penny. This lasted until my eighth birthday. As I carried the cake to her, Mom’s sharp voice cut in: “Stand up straight, let me see!” She measured our heights — I was now taller than Penny. I felt a rush of pride. Maybe I could finally help more, protect her better. But when I turned, I saw devastation on Mom’s face. “What are you showing off for? If your sister wasn’t sick, she’d be taller than you by now!” Panicked, I stammered an explanation. The cake slipped from my hands and splattered on the floor. Trying to help, Penny lost her balance and fell. Mom shoved me aside and rushed to her. “Why do you have to upset her? Can’t you let her have one good day?” “Why couldn’t it have been you who got sick? Why aren’t you the one dying?” My hand tightened around the medical report in my pocket. Okay, Mom. … I’d been carrying that report with me for a week. Last week, when I went with Mom for Penny’s check-up, the doctor had stopped me, suggesting I get a quick exam as well. Mom was busy at the pharmacy window, picking up Penny’s prescriptions. Without even turning around, she’d said, “There’s nothing wrong with her. She’s as healthy as a horse.” When the results came back, I held the paper in my sweaty palm. I couldn’t read all the words, but I recognized the two that mattered: “brittle bone disease.” They were the exact same words written on my sister’s chart. The doctor told me I needed to wear braces, take medication, and come in for regular check-ups. He said a lot of things, but I only remember one question: “Your bones are already showing subtle signs of the condition. Does it hurt?” Yes. It hurt. A sharp, splitting pain whenever I turned over in my sleep, when I got out of bed in the morning, when I walked down the stairs. But I shook my head and forced a smile. “No, it doesn’t hurt.” I carefully folded the report and tucked it deep into my pocket. That evening, I worked up the courage to tell her, but I overheard Mom on the balcony, her voice a low, desperate plea. “Brenda, you know how sick my daughter is… can you please ask the foreman for another month’s advance on my paycheck? My daughter can’t wait.” The words died in my throat. I looked down at the corner of the report peeking out of my pocket and pushed it deeper inside. It was okay. My teacher always said, “first come, first served.” Penny got sick first, so she should be treated first. I could wait. I tiptoed into Penny’s room and quietly took a set of her old, worn-out braces. I clumsily strapped them on under my clothes. This way, I wouldn’t get hurt. I could definitely hold on until Penny was better. But the next day, as Mom was helping me with my jacket, her fingers brushed against the unnatural hardness on my arm. She ripped open my sleeve. When she saw the braces, her face turned to stone. “What is this? You’re stealing from your sister now? These things are for saving her life!” “Do you have any idea how expensive these are? You’re perfectly healthy. Are you wearing this to curse yourself, or are you cursing your sister?” I flinched, my eyes pleading with her. “No, Mom, I…” Mom cut me off. She raised her hand, held it there for a second, then let it fall, her shoulders trembling. “So young, and already so cruel.” “You see your sister suffering, and it makes you happy? You have to copy her just to spite me?” I took off the braces, folded them neatly, and placed them back by Penny’s bed, closing her door with a heavy heart. “I’m sorry, Mom.” It’s okay. I’ll just be extra careful, and then I won’t get hurt. As long as I’m careful enough, I can live for a long, long time. It wasn’t until Mom screamed those words at me—”Why don’t you just die?!”—that I finally understood. I was sick, but I couldn’t take Penny’s place. A single bottle of medicine cost so much money. Mom’s money was all for Penny. There wasn’t enough to share with me. But what if I died? Then Mom’s burden would be lighter. All the money, and all the love, could go to Penny, whole and complete. Mom was right. This was the best, most correct thing I could do. After Mom finished massaging Penny’s legs and giving her medicine, she carried her back to bed. Penny whispered, “Mom, don’t be mad at Annie. She didn’t do anything wrong. I was just clumsy.” Mom didn’t answer, just waved a tired hand. I hid behind the door, listening, my fingers gently rubbing the ribs where Mom had shoved me. When Mom came out, she froze for a second when she saw me. Her eyes were still red, her voice hoarse. “I’m leaving for work now. You watch your sister. Don’t cause any more trouble.” I nodded, rubbing my cheek against the hand she offered. Mom’s hands were always on Penny. For once, her touch lingered on me. Her palm was so warm, and her sleeve smelled faintly of soap. I had yearned for this for so, so long. She paused, gave my cheek a gentle squeeze, and then she was gone. The door clicked shut. I knelt by Penny’s door, listening until I was sure she was asleep, then I started to clean. I looked at the smashed cake on the floor and licked a bit of frosting from my fingertip. It was sweet. Such a waste. I scrubbed the stain from the floor, mopped until it shone, and folded the clean laundry into neat piles. Every time I bent over, a sharp pain shot through my spine. I bit my lip and told myself it was okay. It’s okay. This is the last time I’ll have to help Mom. I looked around the tidy apartment, nodding with satisfaction. I dragged a chair over to the wall cabinet and took down the family first-aid box. My teacher said you should never take medicine without a grown-up, or you could die. I was glad I had paid attention in class. I knew exactly how to die. I rummaged through the box. This was Mom’s sleeping medicine. I had to leave that for her. Can’t take it. This was Dad’s pain medicine. Can’t take that either. This was Penny’s medicine. It was very, very expensive. I put it carefully back in the very corner. I kept searching, and finally, I had a small pile of colorful, rarely used pills. I cupped them in my palm. They looked like a tiny, rainbow-colored mountain. I slid the chair to the refrigerator and took out the strawberry milk Mom had given me as a reward last week. I hadn’t been able to bring myself to drink it. But the medicine would be bitter. If I couldn’t swallow it all and didn’t die, I would just cause Mom more trouble. I hesitated, then poured half of it into a glass. I put the cap back on the other half and placed it back in the fridge for Penny when she woke up. I carefully locked the front door. I knelt by my bed and, from under the mattress, pulled out the award certificates I’d never been allowed to display. I smoothed them out, one by one, and then placed them back under the mattress with my medical report. Finally, I climbed onto my little bed. From under my pillow, I took out my savings: three twenty-dollar bills, seven tens, one five, and five dimes. Some of it was saved from my lunch money, some from selling scrap I’d collected, and some from doing homework for classmates. I wrote on a slip of paper: “For a new wheelchair cushion for Penny. She says her current one hurts.” I placed the money and the note in the very center of the table, where Mom would see it the moment she walked in. There. Everything was taken care of. Now I could die in peace. I swallowed the pills with the half-glass of strawberry milk. It was fragrant and sweet, and it covered the bitter taste of the medicine. Strawberry milk was so delicious. Penny would definitely like it. I lay down, pulled the covers up to my chin, and folded my hands over my stomach. On TV, people who died peacefully always looked like this. When Mom came home and saw the clean house and the money I’d left, she would feel a little bit of relief, right? Dad wouldn’t have to work three jobs at once anymore, and Mom wouldn’t have to beg for advances on her paycheck. And Penny… Penny could have all the love. My breathing got lighter. My body felt like it was sinking and floating at the same time. I squeezed my eyes shut, afraid to open them. The pain in my ribs was fading, replaced by a spreading numbness. What a strange feeling. Suddenly, I missed Mom so much. And Dad. Last month, when Dad left for his long-haul job, he promised he’d bring me strawberry chocolate when he came back. It’s a shame I’ll never get to taste it. When I opened my eyes again, I was looking down at myself, lying on the bed. So this is what it’s like to die. It doesn’t hurt. It just feels… light.

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After getting into college, I delivered food for DoorDash to earn tuition because my family was poor. When my dad found out, he scolded me for embarrassing him, tore up my acceptance letter, and forced me to drop out and work in a factory. Mom tried to stop him, but he pushed her down, causing a miscarriage, and she ended up in the hospital. To pay for the medical bills, I started delivering food secretly again. Until I delivered a birthday cake to a mansion and saw a woman sitting on my dad’s lap, flirting. “Mr. Franklin, it’s been twenty years. Haven’t you had enough of playing the ‘poor game’ with that mother and daughter?” Dad laughed: “You don’t understand. Watching a fallen heiress willingly wash clothes and cook for me is much more interesting than being a CEO.” The woman asked again: “Then your daughter…” “Eh, it’s your birthday today. Don’t mention that bad luck charm,” Dad said mockingly. I turned and left, my heart completely cold. Later, I found a new husband for my mom. Why is this fake-poor dad begging Mom to come back with his fortune in hand? Chapter 1 Carrying the takeout, I rang the doorbell of the mansion. The butler who opened the door disliked the rain on me and made me use the servants’ stairs. Reaching the last step, I habitually turned on my phone, preparing to record a simple delivery confirmation video. But as I was filming, my blood froze instantly. At the head of the hall, the man surrounded by people, wearing an expensive silk shirt I had never seen before, was my dad. Around him were well-dressed men and women. Someone pushed playfully, and a woman in a silver sequined long dress with exquisite makeup giggled and fell onto his lap. “Mr. Franklin, it’s been twenty years. Haven’t you had enough of playing the ‘poor game’ with that mother and daughter?” The woman’s voice came through the faint music. Dad laughed loudly, his arm naturally wrapping around the woman’s waist. “You don’t understand. A fallen heiress willingly washing clothes and cooking for me is much more interesting than being a CEO.” The woman covered her mouth laughing, then asked: “The heiress is your fun, I get it. But what about your daughter? Heard…” Dad raised his hand directly, gently blocking her lips with his finger, a playful smile on his face: “Bad luck outsider, what’s there to mention.” He looked around at everyone present and raised his voice: “Today, only you are my leading lady.” The woman exclaimed, cheeks flushing red. Dad laughed heartily again and clapped his hands. Immediately, someone presented a deep blue velvet gift box. He opened it. Inside lay a necklace, the main diamond dazzling even from a distance. He personally put it on the woman, the diamond refracting cold, brilliant light on her neck. The woman also smilingly took off the old watch on Dad’s wrist and threw it downstairs casually. She took out a new watch and put it on Dad: “Mr. Franklin, that one doesn’t suit you.” Flattery erupted around them. “Sister Chloe is so lucky. This ‘Tear of the Stars’ must be worth ten million? Mr. Franklin bought it just like that!” “Tsk tsk, that yellow-faced woman Fiona saved money to buy Mr. Franklin a watch? Heard it was only three thousand? Even my servant would find it shabby!” “Exactly, Fiona only holds the title of a wife with a marriage certificate. How can she compete with our Sister Chloe…” Amidst the buzzing discussion and laughter, the woman named Chloe triumphantly lifted her face and exchanged a lingering kiss with Dad again. I held my phone, cold tears sliding down my cheeks. Dad’s watch was exchanged for Mom embroidering a complex tapestry for a whole month. Mom embroidered until her fingers were pricked with countless tiny holes, until her eyes were almost blind, until her neck started to hurt. But she still smiled and said to me: Crystal, your dad and my 20th wedding anniversary is coming. He loves face, Mom is giving him a good watch. But the watch Mom almost went blind stitching stitch by stitch. Dad just let another woman throw it away like trash so easily. I trembled all over, pressed the stop recording button, put the cake on the stair corner, and turned to leave. Ring ring ring… The phone rang. The screen flashed with the word “Mom.” My heart clenched violently, and I immediately pressed the hang-up button. Just after doing all this, footsteps came from the stairs. “Cake delivery?” A waiter-like person walked over. I lowered my head, mumbled a vague “Mmhmm,” and went downstairs quickly. Just sitting on the e-bike, the phone in my pocket rang again. Still Mom. I took a deep breath and pressed answer: “Mom?” “Crystal,” Mom’s voice came from the other end, tired, “Did I disturb your delivery just now?” Chapter 2 “No, didn’t disturb.” I cleared my throat, “Signal was bad in the elevator just now.” “Oh, that’s good.” Mom paused, a trace of imperceptible nervousness in her tone, “Crystal, why is your voice a bit hoarse?” My heart soured, immediately raising my pitch a bit to cover up: “Someone was smoking in the elevator just now, choked me.” Silence for a few seconds on the other end, Mom sighed: “Then be careful, come back early.” “Mmhmm.” I hung up the phone. After delivering the last order, I bought a small cake and went to the hospital. Gently pushing open the ward door, Mom was half-leaning on the bed, pale but peaceful. And Dr. Gold, who was in charge of her ward, was facing away from the door, leaning slightly, saying something. “Okay, I will follow the doctor’s orders and eat well.” Mom nodded promising. Dr. Gold’s expression softened. “Crystal is back?” Next second, Mom saw me and waved. Dr. Gold straightened up and turned around. Seeing me, his smile deepened: “Good child, tired? Rest a bit, your mom is recovering well.” “Thank you, Dr. Gold.” I walked into the ward and thanked him sincerely. After Mom was hospitalized, Dad didn’t have time to come. It was Dr. Gold who ran around helping settle Mom down. Dr. Gold nodded, instructed Mom to “rest well” again, and turned to leave. I walked to the bedside, Mom seemed to come back to her senses. “Dr. Gold was checking the room?” I asked casually, not wanting Mom to see my face, looking down to open the delivery box and take out the small cake. “Ah, yes.” Mom’s voice was a bit light, “Dr. Gold is very responsible.” “Indeed, he even advanced the medical bills for us.” I nodded in agreement, smilingly handing the cake to Mom: “Mom, the cake shop messed up the pattern on this one.” “The shop owner lady knows me, sold it to me for five bucks.” Mom handed the cake back to me: “You haven’t eaten, you eat first.” “What delicious food are you eating?” The ward door was pushed open violently. A tall figure appeared at the door. It was my “poor” dad who couldn’t afford medical bills, Franklin. “Cake, I asked Crystal to buy it back.” Mom spoke first, winking at me simultaneously. I quietly pushed the delivery box by my feet under the bed. Dad had already walked in. He took out a stack of frayed banknotes from his pocket and placed them by Mom’s hand. “Fiona, this month’s salary is settled, three thousand. You use it first, check whatever needs checking, don’t save.” Mom looked at the money, her eyes red instantly. She put the cake on the bedside table, then held Dad’s hand. “Why are your hands so cold.” Mom was full of heartache, “Rained on again?” “It’s all my fault. If not for my bad health, you wouldn’t have to work so hard…” She couldn’t go on, tears rolling down. “Don’t talk nonsense.” Dad immediately held Mom’s hand tightly back. He lowered his head, Adam’s apple rolled, and when he spoke again, his voice was a bit hoarse: “I didn’t take good care of you. Don’t worry about money, I’m here.” Warmth filled the ward. But I remembered Dad’s face in the villa, spending money like water, hugging beauty and laughing. A wave of nausea rushed to the top of my head. I couldn’t help speaking, voice cold and hard: “Mom, you’ve done enough. At least, much better than some people who are clearly clean but insist on pretending to be dusty and dirty.” Voice fell, Dad looked up sharply at me. Chapter 3 “Crystal, what do you mean by that?” I pinched his dry and clean sleeve, sneering: “You earned this hard money, but you are quite clean.” “If people didn’t know better, they’d think you work in an office, not a factory!” Slap! Dad swung his arm. My cheek burned. “Franklin!” Mom screamed, propping herself up. Dad raised his hand again. Slap! The slap landed on Mom’s face. Dad’s hand froze in mid-air. His face changed drastically, sweeping the small cake on the bedside table to the floor. “Loving mother spoils the child! Eat eat eat, I let you eat!” He kicked the scattered cake away, then strode out of the ward. Dead silence in the ward. Mom covered her mouth, tears flowing silently. Looking at the sweet mess on the floor, I felt my heart was also covered with a layer of cold cream, suffocating. After cleaning up the cake, I suppressed all churning emotions back to the bottom of my heart, rasping: “Mom, I’ll go to the cafeteria to get you some food.” Almost escaping, I pulled open the ward door and walked out. Once out, I saw Dad leaning against the cold tiled wall, arms crossed, head down. Hearing the sound, he looked up. “Didn’t eat dinner, for you.” Dad walked over heavily, handing me the hospital meal box. I didn’t take it. He took out two boiled eggs from his pocket again: “Apply on your face, don’t leave marks.” I still didn’t take it, just staring at him: “Dad, what exactly do you want to do?” “Do you love Mom, love me or not?” I finally couldn’t help asking. Dad frowned: “Why ask this? Dad of course…” Ring ring ring— Phone ringtone interrupted him. He answered in front of me. A woman’s commanding voice came from the other end: “Franklin, time to come back for overtime!” “Yes yes yes, Supervisor, I’ll be right back!” He bowed and scraped to the phone, hung up, and showed an apologetic look to me, “Crystal, factory needs overtime. Tell your mom I won’t be back tonight.” Saying that, he stuffed the meal box and eggs into my hands, turned and left hurriedly. Looking at his back, tears rolled down. What supervisor, clearly Chloe. I could recognize that voice. I dug my nails into my palm, wiped my tears. Back in the ward, Mom’s eyes were still red. I put down the meal box, asking softly: “Mom, can we not live with Dad?” Mom was stunned, then held my hand urgently: “Silly child, what nonsense are you talking about?” “Your dad loves us. He’s just under pressure. When you were sick as a child, he guarded you day and night…” These words again. I numbly said “Oh” and stopped talking. At night, Mom slept. I went out with the thermos. Coming back, I heard Dad’s suppressed roar outside the ward. “I work myself to death outside, and you are lovey-dovey with your first love here?” I pushed the door open hurriedly, seeing Dad grabbing Dr. Gold’s collar, eyes red. Mom cried defending: “No, Dr. Gold was just checking the room…” Dr. Gold tried to break free: “Mr. Franklin, you misunderstood!” Dad didn’t listen, punched Dr. Gold in the face, turning to Mom with a hideous look. I rushed in, blocking in front of Mom. “Franklin, enough!” “When you celebrated Chloe’s birthday in the villa, when you hugged and kissed, did you think of Mom?” “What deep affection are you pretending now!” Voice fell, Mom forgot to cry, eyes wide open. And Dad’s lips trembled, seeming to want to say something. Crying, I took out my phone from my pocket and clicked on that video… Dad’s face lost all color instantly. Next second, panic turned into tangible ferocity. He pounced like a beast to snatch the phone. Prepared, I turned sideways to protect it firmly. “Give it to me, that’s fake, synthesized.” His eyes were splitting, veins on forehead throbbing. Mom struggled to get up, voice trembling… Chapter 4 “Franklin, Crystal, what are you doing? What video?” Her pale face was full of bewilderment. Dad froze because of her voice. In this second, I handed the phone over. Screen lit up. In the paused frame, Dad’s profile hugging Chloe was incredibly clear under the brilliant villa lights. “Fiona, don’t believe it, listen to me…” Dad’s pleading stuck in his throat. Mom didn’t look at him. She took the phone, fingertips trembling, but clicked play with abnormal firmness. Volume not high, but those words, frivolous, flattering, malicious, still drilled into the dead air like snakes. “A fallen heiress willingly washing clothes and cooking for me…” “Bad luck outsider, what’s there to mention…” “Fiona that yellow-faced woman…” I saw Mom’s shoulders starting to shake slightly, then violently. She stared at the screen, eyes wide open, pupils dilating bit by bit, breathing rapid. Video ended. Phone slipped from her completely powerless hand, smashing on the floor with a PA. She maintained the head-down posture, solidified. “Fiona, that’s a misunderstanding, just acting on occasion.” Dad stepped forward, reaching out to touch her. Mom’s body swayed slightly, like a puppet with broken strings, falling backward straight. “Mom!” “Fiona!” Dad and I screamed simultaneously. Dad reacted faster, opening arms to catch. But a white figure was faster than him. Dr. Gold rushed over agilely, arm steadily supporting Mom’s sliding body, other hand already checking her neck pulse. “Fiona!” He called urgently in a low voice, no calmness of a doctor at all, face full of panic. Dad’s arms missed, looking at Mom, ashen-faced in Dr. Gold’s arms. He froze for a moment, then raged: “Let go of her, give her to me!” He reached out to snatch. I used all my strength to rush forward, pushing him away fiercely. Caught off guard, he stumbled into a chair. I blocked in front of Dr. Gold and Mom, every word quenched in ice. “Franklin, you don’t deserve to touch her.” “It’s you, you made Mom like this.” Dad froze. Dr. Gold ignored us. He had quickly laid Mom flat, pressed the call bell, and ordered the arriving nurse clearly. “Patient emotional shock, blood pressure and heart rate unstable, prepare for emergency room!” He bent down, carefully picking Mom up onto the gurney, movements gentle as treating fragile porcelain. Then, he pushed the bed, rushing out the door without looking back. Dad woke up from a dream, wanted to chase. “Franklin,” I blocked him, stopping his steps, “Chasing now, is it to perform ‘deep affection’, or afraid Mom wakes up and says more things you don’t know?”

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Eight years ago, Mom and River were diagnosed with leukemia at the same time. As the only one in the family with a matching blood type, I became their only hope. At first, my blood was enough. But eight years is too long. By the third year, the doctor told me I needed to find other ways. Sometimes, money can’t solve everything… I was humiliated by men lurking outside the hospital, taken advantage of by those matching my blood type. Even taken to an underground bar in the suburbs to perform “vulgar” shows. But every time I thought about bags of fresh blood flowing into Mom and River’s bodies, making them feel a bit better, I felt everything was worth it. Until I went to the Director’s office, begging him to let me pay the medical bills two days late. I saw Mom and River chatting and laughing inside… Dr. Young’s familiar voice came out: “That’s enough! It’s been eight years. How long do you want to fake this illness? Just because of that small incident eight years ago, torturing Luna like this is too much!” “How can it be a small incident!” River’s voice came out. “Stella has severe anemia, and Luna was so careless to scratch her hand! That was life-threatening!” “A scratch?! Not even the size of a fingernail!” “Alright, Dr. Young, I know what I’m doing. After all, it has been eight years. I see Stella’s mood has improved a lot recently. I will end this soon…” “In the days to come, as her brother, I will spoil Luna desperately to make it up to her…” I stuffed my bony fist into my mouth, forcing myself not to make a sound. Make it up? I’m afraid there’s no chance… Chapter 1 “Make it up?!” Dr. Young suddenly raised his voice. “Do you know what Luna has gone through in these eight years?!” “Her small body has to support two adults like you. At first, you still had some humanity, asking for surgery once a month. She at least had time to recover. But later, you demanded it once a week! Didn’t you think she couldn’t take it?!” “Dr. Young, your words are too harsh…” Mom, who had been silent, finally couldn’t stand it. “We did our homework. Human blood can regenerate. It’s just Luna suffering a few needle pricks. But eight years ago, Stella faced life-threatening danger. This punishment is already very light…” “Enough, Dr. Young.” Mom’s lips curled into a smile. “I know you medical people are rigorous and like to exaggerate things. But I know my child. I raised Luna with love. She is very healthy. Unlike Stella, who grew up in foster care, her body is extremely weak and can’t stand any harm…” “Healthy?! In the third year, Luna didn’t have enough blood. Do you know what those men squatting outside the hospital do?!” “How many times, when Luna was pushed into the operating room, her chest, her abdomen, were covered with marks of being… abused! She is a beautiful girl, didn’t you ever think…” “Dr. Young.” River interrupted Dr. Young. Handed him a cigarette. “Of course I know what those people do. But eight years ago, I instructed the family’s subordinates to protect Luna. They report to me every day. Those lowlifes outside won’t do anything to her.” I pulled my cap lower, curling up into a ball outside the office. The scars from being bitten last night began to throb with pain. Eight years. Can’t remember how many times I was tied up and thrown into a room. But I never saw any of the people River said were protecting me… In those nauseating moments, I screamed desperately for help. Except for suffering more excessive treatment, only boundless despair remained… “Dr. Young, what’s wrong with you today? Why so emotional?” River’s words pulled me out of the memories filled with humiliation and fear. Dr. Young suddenly lost his temper. Extinguished the cigarette in his hand, slamming his fist on the desk. “Of course I’m emotional! Because if this game happens again, Luna’s body…” “Whose body?!” Dr. Young was only halfway through when a figure with a strong perfume scent ran past me. Pushed the door open and rushed into Dr. Young’s office. Stella held River’s arm, looking at the heaving Dr. Young, speaking coquettishly. “Uncle Young, what made you so angry? I heard you talking about Sister? What’s wrong with Sister’s body?” “Yes, I’m talking about your sister. Her body…” “Dr. Young!” River stood up abruptly, interrupting Dr. Young sternly. “Don’t mention that bad luck charm in front of Stella!” Then turned around, hugging Stella, comforting her gently. “Didn’t mention her. We were talking about you. Dr. Young said your health is much better…” In their mouths, I am a bad luck charm… I, who endure severe pain and humiliation every day to extend their lives, am a bad luck charm… Dr. Young slammed the door and left in anger. The huge sound of the door closing made my head dizzy. Couldn’t hold it back, bleugh, vomited all over the floor… Chapter 2 To ensure the health of my blood, I swallow a handful of pills and high-protein food every day. These things make the smell of my vomit exceptionally pungent. Waves of sour rot spread out, and I vomited uncontrollably again. “Oh my god, what smells so disgusting!” The pungent smell made Stella scream inside the office. She rushed out. Seeing me curled up on the floor wearing a baseball cap, she instantly raised her voice. “Hey! Who are you! Why vomit outside the Director’s office! So disgusting, clean it up quickly!” Stella’s screeching attracted passersby. “Hey! Isn’t that the girl who hangs out with those lowlife men at the hospital gate all day?” “Yes! That’s her! I just saw her get off that man’s van with my own eyes. Before getting off, that man even grabbed her ass. How did such a little slut come to the Director’s office?” “Let’s go, let’s go. Looking at such a shameless bitch makes me sick…” Hearing their discussion, Stella immediately pinched her nose. Shouting towards the office. “Brother, come look! How does Uncle Young manage the hospital? Letting any dirty thing in? Look at her, she vomited in front of me, so disgusting!” “Clean it up!” River’s suppressed roar came from above. I was about to look up, get up… Stella stepped forward and pressed my head, pushing me directly onto that pile of vomit. “What are you looking at!” “Clean up this filth! Are you deaf?!” I was pressed firmly onto the filth. In the narrow space, every deep breath I took sucked the filth back into my nose and mouth. “You’re eating it?! Disgusting to death! If you like it, eat it all!” Stella pressed my head harder. While pressing me, she looked up at River, making retching sounds. Seeing this, River quickly pulled Stella into his arms. Then stepped on my head, his tone losing all patience. “Hurry up!” I had no strength to lift my head anymore… Yeah, what was I thinking just now? Deluding myself that they would feel guilty seeing me and love me as before? But eight years. If they had any regret, today wouldn’t have happened, right? Tears mixed with filth were swallowed into my mouth. So bitter… That large pile of filth was “cleaned up” by me. Above my head came Stella’s crying voice. “Brother, so annoying. I was in a good mood today, but met such a dirty thing. Her stubborn look really resembles my annoying sister…” Before Stella finished, I felt a scrutinizing gaze on me. River, who had intended to walk away. Suddenly stopped and looked back at me. He seemed to want to turn back and look carefully. But Stella cried out. “Brother, why did Sister refuse to apologize to me eight years ago? Clearly she hurt me. Does she dislike me? Was I always superfluous? Brother, every time I think of this, I feel so sad…” The head that just turned back turned away again. Stopped steps moved forward again. “Don’t talk nonsense. You are Mom and Brother’s most beloved treasure. How could you be superfluous? If anyone is superfluous, it’s her!” “Stella don’t be angry, Brother will teach her a lesson right now!” With that, River took out his phone to call me. Mom, who hadn’t spoken, blocked him. “River, maybe don’t call? I just heard Dr. Young imply Luna suffered a lot these years…” “Mom! Why are you becoming as nagging as Dr. Young? Don’t worry, I know what I’m doing!” River interrupted Mom. Dialed my number. They had already turned downstairs, not hearing the ringtone in my pocket as I lay on the filth… I answered with trembling hands. River’s usual weak voice sounded on the other end. “Luna, come to the hospital quickly, save… save Brother…” Chapter 3 When the flustered nurses brought me to the operating room after I cleaned myself up in the bathroom. I saw Dr. Young who had slammed the door and left… “Luna, blood donation is voluntary. You can refuse. If you…” “Dr. Young, your wife just called. Said your group of friends went to your house again.” The nurse’s words froze Dr. Young in place. For eight years, every time before my surgery. Dr. Young’s house would be visited by such a group of “guests.” I grew up in the Gu family, I understood too well what these “guests” do. “Luna…” Guilt and heartache flowed in the eyes of this elderly man. I forced a smile and lay on the operating bed myself. “It’s okay, Dr. Young. Let’s start.” “Luna, your body really can’t take it anymore. One more time, I’m afraid…” “Dr. Young, hurry up. Auntie is waiting for you for dinner at home.” How could I not know the state of my own body? Really don’t want innocent people involved anymore. Let me bear this sin alone… Minutes later, I saw the extremely weak River inside the operating room. River, pale-faced, tremblingly stepped forward and held my hand. “Sorry, Luna. Blame Brother’s useless body. Sometimes Brother really wants to smash his head and die here…” Scalding tears fell from River’s eyes. But when they hit the back of my hand, I could only feel coldness… I broke free from the wrist held by those withered hands. Looking at this brother who was chatting and laughing just now but looks haggard at this moment. Must be that punishing me, the bad luck charm, cost him a lot of effort these years too. Clearly such a robust person. At this moment, thin as a skeleton… “Luna, ultimately Mom and Brother failed you…” Mom’s trembling cry brought back my thoughts. She rushed in disheveled, wearing a large hospital gown. Seeing me, she hugged me tightly. Mom used too much force, pressing on the wounds from being tortured last night, causing piercing pain. “Mrs. Gu, is your health bad again?! Both of you again?!” Dr. Young looked at Mom with bloodshot eyes, questioning in disbelief. Through the mirror, I clearly saw Mom winking at Dr. Young non-stop. Sure enough, Dr. Young stopped talking the next second. Perhaps to cover up Dr. Young’s emotion just now. Mom cried even harder. “Luna, why don’t you go live your own life? Mom really doesn’t want to delay you anymore…” I broke free from her embrace, staring into her red eyes, rasping. “Is that really okay?” Instantly, the huge operating room became deathly silent… Mom’s expression changed awkwardly and quickly like a clown. Finally, River broke the terrible silence. “Mom, look at you, why say this! Eight years, if Luna wanted to leave, she would have left long ago. She is my flesh and blood, meat from your belly. Can she watch us die?” “Yes, Mom, Brother is right. I am meat from your belly, his flesh and blood. Even if I exchange my life for yours, I am willing…” An unknown emotion flashed in River’s eyes. Looked like guilt, or maybe heartache. But it has nothing to do with me anymore… Urged by the nurse, the three of us lay back on the operating beds… Chapter 4 Eight years. This surgery took an exceptionally long time. I even saw Grandma, who passed away long ago, in my dream. She called my name over and over in the dream. She said if I felt no one loved me, go find her… I want to find her so much. I almost touched Grandma’s warm rough hands… “Luna? Wake up!” Woke up in a daze, finding myself in a ward. The person calling me was Dr. Young. “You’ve been asleep for three days…” Dr. Young tucked me in. “Luna, after eight years of treatment, your brother and mom’s condition has improved a lot. You won’t need to enter the operating room with them anymore. Your body has been ruined in these eight years. Rest well for the remaining days…” Finished, before I could reply. Dr. Young shook his head sighing and left. Clearly good news. But why did Dr. Young look so bad… I looked around and saw tubes all over my body. Turns out this isn’t a ward, this is the ICU. Looks like that day is really coming… I wanted to sleep a bit more, talk to Grandma in my dream. But just closed my eyes, the ward door was kicked open from outside. Stella rushed in and slapped my face. “Gu Nanyue (Luna), what are you pretending for?! Think lying here will make Mom and Brother care about you?! Dream on!” “Gu Nanxing (Stella), some things, even if you snatch them, aren’t yours…” I summoned my last strength, enduring the stinging pain all over my body to say this. Before I finished, I was interrupted by Stella gritting her teeth. “Who says so! I’ll show you today, what I snatch is mine forever!” Voice just fell, Stella took out a dagger from her pocket, slicing straight at her own forearm. Then screamed towards outside. “Brother, Mom, help! Sister wants to kill me…” Before voice fell, River kicked open the door and rushed in. Seeing blood flowing from Stella’s forearm, River hugged her. Looking at me with eyes full of hatred. “Luna! What are you doing! Just now Dr. Young told us you were sick, we were worried! Didn’t expect you were faking it!” “Never seen a patient who can get up and hurt people with a knife! Who are you putting on this act for!” Mom bandaged Stella’s wound in panic while glaring at me. “You evil creature, shouldn’t have pitied you! Don’t think just because you gave blood for eight years, you can do whatever you want in this house. Dream on!” “Mom, Brother, I’m scared. Why did Sister fake illness to harm me? Maybe I should leave our home, go back to foster care…” Stella’s words completely ignited the anger in River’s eyes. He lunged at me. “Let you pretend!” “Let you harm Stella with evil intentions!” He cursed while tearing off all the tubes on my body. Then dragged Mom and Stella away without looking back. Ignoring the red lights lighting up everywhere and the ear-piercing beeping of those devices… Don’t remember how long passed. Dr. Young rushed in with a group of people. He frantically plugged those tubes back into me. But I knew, it was useless… “Dr… Young, stop busy…” “Child, tell Uncle Young any request, Uncle fulfills it…” “Call Brother and Mom, let them come back…” Consciousness fading, I seemed to really see Grandma. White cloth slowly covered me. Just as it covered my head. I saw River and Mom rushing in recklessly…

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At the ten-year high school reunion. My deskmate suddenly asked me: “Do you still hate Lucas for suddenly changing his college choice and leaving you alone in Boston?” I smiled and swirled the wine in my glass: “I stopped hating him long ago. If I hadn’t gone to Boston alone, I wouldn’t have abandoned my love-struck brain to focus on my studies and successfully get my Master’s.” I casually revealed the ring on my finger: “I’m getting married next month. Everyone is welcome to come. Honestly, I have to thank him.” As soon as these words came out, the private room fell silent. Everyone looked at the man who crushed the wine glass in his hand. His eyes were terrifyingly red, staring dead at me, blood mixed with wine dripping down. I was surprised by his breakdown. After all, two hours before the commitment deadline back then, Just because of one sentence from the Prom Queen, he suddenly changed his choice from MIT Architecture to UCLA. The class group chat exploded instantly: “What about his little tail, Clara? You two swore to be the MIT twin stars since middle school!” Lucas seemed to just remember this, his reply carrying a careless smile: “She has my account password, she definitely saw I changed it immediately. She’ll change hers too. For so many years, when has she ever truly left me?” “Lucas you’re the man! As expected of you!” “Clara is your human accessory. She carried your shoes and water for every game in high school, how could she bear to separate?” I didn’t listen any further. I turned around, stuffed the sneakers I just retrieved for Lucas into his locker. And left the gym silently. That day, I didn’t log into the account carved in my brain again. Nor did I follow him to change my choice from MIT to UCLA. He probably didn’t know. He could go to LA for Jessica’s insecurity, and I also had a distance I must reach. That dream that supported me through countless nights of drawing. Was never just for him. Chapter 1 Getting into MIT Architecture together was an oath we made while munching on Cheetos on the old playground in eighth grade. A week before the application deadline, our parents even sat together, carefully circling the admission plans. Now, he changed it lightly. Too lazy to even say hello. In the class group chat, Dave was still asking: “Lucas, are you sure Clara will log into your account to check again? What if she didn’t notice at all?” Lucas scoffed, with a habitual certainty: “More than just checking? Don’t I know her?” “She checks ten times a day, cares more about mine than her own, afraid of any mistake that would separate us.” His tone revealed a bit of helplessness. “You guys won’t understand, I’ve had this little tail since I was a kid, used to it.” Then, a burst of knowing laughter came from the group. At this moment, I sent a message using my alt account: “Lucas, isn’t this a bit unfair? At least tell Clara.” Lucas sounded a bit annoyed: “Forgot, and too lazy to explain.” “If she knows I changed it for Jessica, she’ll ask endlessly again.” “Besides, I didn’t change it blindly. With Jessica’s mom’s situation, she’s panicked going to LA alone. With an acquaintance looking after her, she’ll feel safer.” The group was quiet for a moment. “True… given Jessica’s conditions and family situation, it is worrying.” “Unlike your Clara, a nerd who only knows how to draw blueprints. Standing next to the Prom Queen, she does lack something.” “Tsk, giving up the dream MIT Architecture for this, Lucas is loyal!” … Looking at the conversation in the group. I clenched my fists, nails digging into my palms, but felt no pain. A chill rushed up from the soles of my feet, freezing my limbs stiff. I really wanted to rush in and ask Lucas clearly. But my feet seemed nailed to the floor. In the end, I just turned silently and walked out of the gym gate. Chapter 2 Locked myself in the room. Those words echoed repeatedly in my mind. Still couldn’t figure it out. How could he give up the MIT Architecture he longed for? We stayed up late together for so many years, models we made filling half the study. Just an hour ago, I was still foolishly excited about the side-by-side future. But I never expected. It turned out the dual blueprint I tried my best to construct. He would tear it up casually just for someone else’s panic. Even if he wanted to change, why was it too troublesome to even tell me? Is he so afraid of my entanglement? Since he’s afraid of entanglement, what about the kiss with tentative breaths in the cool night breeze on the rooftop on my seventeenth birthday? Was it just a joke he started on a whim, but I took it seriously? Something in my heart shattered with a click. Actually, I didn’t have to stick to him. From elementary to high school, I went to the same school and same class as Lucas. Everyone, including Lucas himself, thought I would follow him forever, like a shadow that never disappears. But no one knew, besides wanting to be with him, I chose MIT Architecture for another unshakable reason. Unrelated to Lucas. Even without him, I would go. I closed the browser I opened unconsciously. Didn’t look at the familiar application page again. And there was not a single thought of changing my choice for him. He can rush thousands of miles for Jessica, and I also have a distance I must reach. Since we have different directions, those entangled pasts need not be asked. Thinking it through, the boulder on my chest loosened. No big deal. As my mom often says, one has to pave one’s own way. As for that kiss… Just treat it as being bitten by a stray dog. The phone buzzed, Lucas’s name jumping on the screen. My brain resisted, but my finger habitually swiped to answer. “Clara the Nerd, what’s taking so long?” “Everyone is here, just waiting for you to start the feast! Hurry up, sent you the location of our usual spot.” It was the farewell dinner after graduation, Lucas’s group took turns hosting, today was his turn. But I didn’t want to go anymore. “Not going, you guys eat.” Before I finished, a deliberately softened female voice came from the receiver. “Lucas, Clara won’t come, is it because she doesn’t welcome me joining your small circle?” It was Jessica. Before Lucas could speak, Dave’s loud voice snatched the lead: “No way, Queen! We are honored to have you!” “Clara is just a bit stubborn, gets awkward whenever a girl gets close to Lucas, get used to it.” The video screen shook, Jessica’s delicate side profile appeared on the edge of Lucas’s lens, very close. She whispered considerately: “Lucas, maybe I should leave first? Don’t want to make you guys unhappy because of me.” Lucas’s face darkened immediately, reaching out to press her shoulder: “Jessica, you don’t need to leave.” “Clara doesn’t know what crazy fit she’s throwing today, let her be.” “Not waiting, let’s eat.” He threw me a cold sentence and cut the video directly. A nameless fire rushed straight to the top of my head. I dragged all of Lucas’s contact information into the blacklist. Since childhood, this was the first time I blocked him. Again, for Jessica. Chapter 3 Since Jessica transferred here in sophomore year. I’ve lost count of how many times Lucas broke rules for her. Maybe boys all like that type, cold, beautiful. In the days I wore faded T-shirts burying my head in drawings, Jessica always seemed dust-free, wearing simple dresses like a fairy. For her, Lucas and I argued, had cold wars. I even thought he fell in love with Jessica and alienated him disheartenedly a few times. But every time, Lucas would find me, frowning and promising: “What are you thinking? I’m just ordinary friends with Jessica, nothing else, don’t drill into a dead end.” “Just helping her out seeing it’s not easy for her, her family situation… you know, glamorous on the surface, how much gossip behind the back.” I believed Lucas. Jessica’s mother was seriously ill, father ran away with money, leaving the mother and daughter struggling, indeed not easy. So, I didn’t care too much about the getting closer distance between Jessica and Lucas. After all, growing up, Lucas never lied to me. He said no, I believed. But later, in places I couldn’t see, Lucas had more and more interactions with her that I didn’t know. Until now. Even college decisions could be changed at will for Jessica. Making my trust look like a joke even more. WeChat notification interrupted chaotic thoughts. [Clara, you grew skills huh? Blocking me? Wait for me when I get home.] It was Lucas using Dave’s account. I expressionlessly blocked Dave too. Checked the time, grabbed my bag and went to school. Last day of application, homeroom teacher called the last class meeting. Traffic jam on the way, when I arrived at the classroom, Lucas and Jessica were already there. My usual seat next to him was occupied by Jessica. Seeing me, she had no intention of getting up, a trace of imperceptible smugness in her eyes. Lucas glanced at me, quickly turned his head, handsome face tense, obviously waiting for me to soften first. But I won’t anymore. Just right, I don’t want to be next to him either. Looking around, I walked straight to the empty seat next to my buddy Zach in the back row. Far away from them. “Students, last few hours for application, must check carefully, decide cautiously!” The teacher left hurriedly after instructing. Zach was complaining to me about the bad ending of a new drama he chased, when someone tapped my head lightly. “Clara, come out.” It was Lucas. I turned, meeting his slightly angry eyes. Moved my gaze away, ignored him. Continued listening to Zach’s complaints. Lucas grabbed my shoulder, forcing me to face him. “Clara, how long are you going to make a scene?” “Tired or not? We’re adults, still playing this cold war game, childish much?” I was forced to look at him, tone flat: “It is quite childish and boring, so don’t come to me anymore.” Eyes confronted for a moment, Lucas lost patience first. “Fine, too lazy to argue with a stubborn donkey like you.” “Act if you want, don’t cry under the blanket later.” He said with habitual mockery. I kept a cold face and didn’t respond. After a moment of silence, I thought he left. Shoulder was pressed hard by Lucas again. He looked straight at me, tone rarely serious: “Today is the last day, your application… check it again properly, don’t make mistakes!” He paused, wanted to say something more, Jessica walked over holding a laptop. “Lucas, there seems to be a small problem with my application system, can you help me look?” Lucas nodded, habitually trying to ruffle my hair like countless times in the past before leaving. I turned my head to avoid. His hand paused in mid-air, finally leaving only a sentence: “Remember to go to the computer room to check, don’t be careless.” Chapter 4 My heart was ice cold. He probably thought, as long as he reminded me, I would definitely check, find he changed, and definitely panic to fill in LA with him, right? True, telling me directly he changed his choice, he’d have to struggle to explain the reason to me, a trouble, how tiring. Luckily, I won’t turn back anymore. Glancing at Lucas who was focusing on checking the screen for Jessica, Zach and I left the classroom. Just out of the school gate wanting to hail a taxi, Zach saw my bad face, dragged me to his cousin’s birthday party. Couldn’t refuse, had to follow. After dinner, dragged to a newly opened arcade club. Arrived to find Lucas’s group was also here tonight. Many acquaintances, two groups soon merged into a large private room. When Lucas saw me, his eyes flickered, didn’t speak, didn’t say hello. I treated him as transparent too. On the way to the restroom, heard Lucas and Dave’s voices around the corner. Dave advised him: “Better make it clear to Clara? She’s going to Boston so far alone, unfamiliar place…” Lucas’s voice revealed certainty: “Relax, I emphasized so many times.” “She definitely changed it. Making a scene now, probably angry I didn’t discuss with her in advance.” I stopped. Two people turned the corner, bumping into me. Lucas signaled Dave to go first with his eyes, blocking me against the corridor wall backhand. “Clara, let’s talk.” He smelled faintly of beer. I turned sideways to bypass. Moved a step and was pulled back by him, hands pressing my shoulders. Tipsy breath hit my face. I turned my head away subconsciously. Stalemate for a few seconds, Lucas scoffed first: “Still angry? Wanted to call you to the club this afternoon, blocked by you.” “Got angry at you in the classroom again, forgot to say.” “Alright, stop being angry. Don’t know where you get so much anger.” “By the way, checked the application, right?” He looked down at me, tone softened a bit. I lowered my eyes, silent. In the stalemate, Jessica’s sweet voice sounded behind. “Lucas, Dave and the guys are looking for you to play Dance Revolution.” “Sorry… interrupting you?” Sometimes I really suspect Jessica has a radar. Whenever Lucas talks to me alone, she always appears just right. I didn’t want to entangle, pushed his hand away while he looked back. Passing Jessica, wrist was grabbed by her.

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On New Year’s Eve afternoon, my best friend’s flower shop received an order from my husband. I checked the WeChat ID of the person placing the order on the shop’s phone three times. Confirmed it was indeed my husband, who was supposedly on a business trip out of town. But the recipient wasn’t me. I made a video call, which connected after a long time. Just as I was about to question him, my best friend squeezed into the screen smiling, speaking before me. “Not even coming back for New Year’s? What gift did you buy for our Cynthia to apologize?” The room on the other side was pitch black. My husband covered his head with a quilt, squinting his eyes, the corner of his mouth twitching unnaturally. “Honey, I’m sorry. I’ll make it up to you when I get back.” “Stayed up all night yesterday, too tired. I’ll sleep a bit more.” This interruption calmed me down a lot. I perfunctorily said a few words and hung up. Picked up the wrapped bouquet and walked out the door. “I’ll deliver this order.” Chapter 1 The delivery address wasn’t far from the flower shop, a new luxury condo complex opened last year. Security stopped me. “No deliveries allowed inside.” I took out the flower shop’s phone, dialed the number, and explained the situation with a pinched voice. My husband’s voice came from inside. “I’m Vincent, owner of Unit 1603, Building 5. Let her in.” Security acknowledged, registering the info before letting me pass. The elevator door opened with a ding. I took a deep breath. “I’ll go in myself.” My best friend Grace nodded and walked to the stairwell nearby. “Call me if anything happens.” I turned on my phone’s video recording and pressed the doorbell. Vincent’s shout came from inside, “Wifey, open the door.” After footsteps, the door opened, and she froze. “Luna’s mom?” I froze too. She was my daughter’s art teacher at the interest class. She quit half a year ago due to pregnancy. Is she carrying my husband’s child? Seeing the flowers in my hand, she looked me over, lowered her head and smiled, shy yet provocative. “Luna’s mom, you started delivering food now?” She wore a loose long nightgown, her belly bulging high. The paper wrapping the flowers was crushed by my tightening grip. She reached out to take the flowers, looking considerate. “Thank you. It’s so cold, must be hard. Want to come in and rest?” “Sure, thank you.” She was stunned, didn’t expect me to agree so easily. Glanced hurriedly at the kitchen, then smiled and opened the shoe cabinet, taking out a pair of slippers. Many men’s shoes in the cabinet. One pair was what I bought for Vincent last month. He wore this pair on the day he left for the business trip. Cartoon photos of the two were displayed at the entrance. Lyla sniffed the flowers. “My husband is always so romantic, never forgets to arrange surprises for any festival.” I sneered, “Does he send flowers on Tomb Sweeping Day too?” She opened her mouth, paused, then said: “Life after divorce must be hard, rich wife starting to deliver food.” I looked at the decoration inside. The floor-to-ceiling window overlooked the entire Emerald Lake. The sunset shining in had an ultimate beauty. My heart could only feel its desolation right now. Dense pain spread throughout my body. “Yeah, unlike Teacher Lyla. Following President Vincent, quality of life leaped a thousand miles.” Relationship exposed, she became triumphant. “If not for Luna, President Vincent would have divorced you long ago. But my child is more important. Hearing I was pregnant, he divorced you immediately.” “Divorced?” “Stop pretending. Vincent told me everything. Going back once a month is just acting in front of Luna. Since you saw it, be sensible. Don’t use this trick to pester my husband.” “We are all women, I know your little thoughts very well.” She said confidently with her head high. Just then, Vincent came out of the kitchen with freshly stewed chicken soup, carefully placing it on the dining table and serving soup. He didn’t see me. Lyla held his arm, voice sticky. “Hubby, we have a guest.” Vincent turned around, saw me, hand shook, bowl fell to the ground with a crash, shattering into pieces. “Why are you here!” Lyla sighed with pity. “Luna’s mom is having a hard time, delivering food now.” Vincent glanced at the flowers on the table, recalling the delivery person’s voice just now was indeed similar to mine, but never expected it to be really me. He pulled me awkwardly. “Listen to my explanation, this…” Before he finished, Lyla pulled him to declare sovereignty. “You guys are divorced, what’s there to explain.” “Luna’s mom, President Vincent will pay Luna’s child support. Don’t be shameless and pester him.” I stared into Vincent’s eyes. “It is time to divorce.” Chapter 2 Vincent shook off Lyla and pulled me outside. “Let’s talk outside. Lyla is in late pregnancy, don’t scare her.” Lyla slipped on a piece of broken porcelain, fell to the ground unsteadily, pulling Vincent’s pant leg. “Hubby, my belly.” Vincent turned pale with shock, picking her up in panic. “Lyla don’t be afraid, I’ll take you to the hospital.” I was hit hard by his elbow, severe pain coming from my lower back. “Ah!” Vincent looked back subconsciously, “Cynthia…” Lyla moaned, interrupting him. He looked at the painful expression of the person in his arms, speeding up with heartache. I walked out the door, Grace ran to support me. “Are you okay?” “I’m fine.” Grace held up her phone chat interface. “I suspect he’s secretly transferring assets. Asked my brother to check.” Grace’s brother is a lawyer. I nodded thanks, sending the video I just recorded. “That woman is Lyla, Luna’s former art teacher. Ask your brother to draft a divorce agreement too.” “Okay, I’ll drive you back.” Grace said my state wasn’t suitable for driving, insisted on sending me home, and picked up Luna to stay at her place for two days. Grace’s brother was fast. Just got home, he sent the found information. The house and car under Lyla’s name were bought by Vincent. Plus transfers, about 70 million ($10 million USD). A year ago, Vincent told me the branch company had issues, needing him to go there often. Turns out it was a love nest. Every time he lied about business trips, he was here with Lyla. I immediately called the company CFO. “Director Wang, send me the accounts of the company and branches for recent years.” “Madam, company secrets, you have no right to view.” “I am a shareholder!” Pause on the other end for two seconds. “I will apply to President Vincent. I’ll send it to you after he signs and agrees.” Good, very good. Since pregnancy, I never asked about company affairs, shopping and doing SPA daily, taking care of the child. Everyone thought I married well. Probably even Vincent forgot, I am the largest shareholder of the company, qualified to remove him anytime. I started clearing the trash at home. Opened the closet, threw Vincent’s clothes on the floor one by one, tearing and stomping, venting my dissatisfaction like a madwoman. Throwing to the end, a storage box appeared in the corner of the closet. Inside were all the things Vincent gave me during four years of college. Tulip LED night light, hand-sewn backpack, personally designed hairpin, star bottle with sweet moments written, etc. His family was poor, no money for expensive gifts. Most gifts were handmade by him. I hugged them and cried loudly until dawn. The next day, mother-in-law and sister-in-law entered early, cursing loudly seeing the messy room. “Cynthia, are you crazy? You smashed such expensive things? Is it easy for my son to make money! How did he marry such a wasteful wife like you? Can’t give birth to a son, and can’t even manage a household.” Seeing me, a slap came straight. “Bitch, almost harmed my grandson.” “Daring to show off in front of Lyla after giving birth to a girl. Be sensible, divorce my son quickly, get out of our Wan family.” Sister-in-law packed all the bird’s nest, sea cucumber, aged ginseng and other supplements in the kitchen into bags. “Wasting good stuff on her. Mom, let’s take them all to give little sister-in-law for her body.” Mother-in-law rushed to the kitchen hearing this, packing with hands and feet. “Right, Lyla is our family’s great hero, must nourish well.” The day I gave birth to Luna, she looked once, saw a girl, and never appeared again. I didn’t care about her attitude, but that Lyla actually gave birth? “Where is Vincent?” Mother-in-law spat. “Of course accompanying my grandson. I warn you, if anything happens to him, I’m not done with you!” Chapter 3 Lyla gave birth to a boy. The whole family knew about them long ago, hiding it from me. Until afternoon, Vincent came home, eyes tired, face full of impatience. “My mom just took some stuff from home, and you called the police? These were bought with my money, what’s wrong with my mom taking them?” “Pack up and go to the police station to explain.” Mother-in-law and sister-in-law left, I called the police immediately, reporting theft. Home surveillance captured clearly, taken items worth over ten thousand, enough for investigation. Police found them at the hospital. Only Vincent was left to care at the hospital, overwhelmed. Finally contacted a confinement nanny, had time to come back and settle with me. I looked at him sneering. “Your money?” He seemed to hear a joke, tone mocking. “Not my money, is it yours? If not for me propping up the company these years, it would have gone bankrupt long ago. I’ve been raising you, letting you enjoy life for over ten years.” “My big company needs an heir. You be your Mrs. Vincent obediently, no one can threaten your position.” I pointed at the family photo on the wall questioning. “Isn’t Luna your child?” “What’s the use of a girl? Eventually falling into others’ hands.” My heart trembled. What does falling into others’ hands mean? Could it be… “Vincent, you approached me in college for this reason too?” Vincent lowered his head grabbing my hand, tone softening. “Cynthia, I love you.” I threw the printed divorce agreement on him. “Sign it.” He glanced at the agreement twice, threw it on the ground, sneering. “Cynthia, look at others. Who doesn’t drink and party, keeping several mistresses? For so many years, I just made a small mistake, and you want a divorce?” “Stop making a scene okay? My mom wants a son, you can’t have a second child, I had no choice. At worst, bring the child back to raise with you when he’s older.” His tone was like saying the weather is good today. I looked at him in disbelief, backhanded two slaps. “Scumbag!” He wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth. “Wifey, I know you are angry, but how can you live without me? Really going to deliver food?” “Don’t forget, the company is mine.” Vincent chuckled. “Don’t be silly. For over ten years, people in the company stopped listening to you long ago.” “Let’s live a good life. I promise you, no one will ever affect your position as Mrs. Vincent. I won’t give less to Luna either.” “As long as I don’t agree, you won’t get custody of the child. Can you bear to leave her? Bear to let her have a broken home? For Luna, think about it carefully.” Truly laughable. He didn’t think of the child when cheating, now moral kidnapping me. When Father died, he gifted him 10% shares, hoping he would treat me well. Now it became a weapon against me. Before marriage, I hid my identity. After graduation, we joined the company together. When we ran for executives, I found out I was pregnant. Father found out, held a wedding for us quickly, ordering me to stay home and rest. Not long after, Father died of a sudden illness. My depression caused a miscarriage. After discharge, I had severe depression. He took care of me while helping me prop up the company. He said he would guard Father’s empire for me. I believed him, uniting other shareholders to support him as Chairman. In that situation, I indeed had no energy to manage the company. Since then, I became the envied Mrs. Vincent, and gave birth to a beautiful daughter. Because I lost a child, I valued Luna very much. Vincent knew this, so he thought of using the child to persuade me. “Vincent, the naive one is you, not me.” Chapter 4 A few days later, I used my shareholder status to remove Vincent from all positions and notified that I would take over all company affairs. Email sent to every employee’s mailbox. I put on the professional suit I hadn’t worn for a long time and walked into the company. Front desk stopped me. “Miss, who are you looking for?” I haven’t been in the company for at least five years. Many employees don’t recognize me. “I am Cynthia, here to work.” “Cynthia?” The receptionist muttered, remembering the email seen in the morning. “You are the new Chairman!” She opened the door for me respectfully. Elevator rose to the 26th floor. The moment the door opened, Vincent stood at the door with other shareholders, as if waiting for me. He smiled, seemingly saying I overestimated myself. The first to speak was Uncle Wang. He started the business with Father for many years, watched me grow up. Now putting on an elder’s posture to lecture. “Cynthia, Vincent told us everything. You are making too much trouble! Couple fight shouldn’t come to the company. Chairman is such a big matter, not for your tantrums!” Employees watching the fun snickered. “President’s wife probably can’t even read reports, right?” “Not staying home to raise kids, coming to the company for what fun.” “I know this kind of housewife. Just afraid husband runs away with someone, coming out to brush existence.” Other shareholders also smiled and advised me. “Mrs. Vincent, Chairman position is not a joke. Go home and accompany the child.” “Cynthia, The Group grew bigger under President Vincent’s lead. Why cause trouble.” “Company isn’t yours alone. What right do you have to make such a decision?” Vincent smiled confidently, relieving me. “It’s all my fault, made Cynthia angry, causing such trouble. I apologize to everyone for her.” “President Vincent is joking. Since it’s your family matter, we won’t participate.” “Cynthia, no more jokes like this!” A group of people laughed and went down the steps, ready to go back in twos and threes. Vincent bent down and whispered in my ear. “See? No one will stand by your side.” Many are confidants who followed Father for years, now all side with Vincent. I looked around, chill in heart growing bit by bit, spoke coldly. “Joke? I am the largest shareholder of the company. I demand the immediate removal of Vincent from all positions.” Shareholders froze, looking at Vincent in unison. Vincent wasn’t annoyed, “Just right everyone is here. Convenient to hold a Shareholders’ Meeting, elect a new Chairman together.” “Assistant Sun, take everyone to the conference room. Notify Director Lee too.” We walked into the conference room. Vincent sat naturally in the main seat, taking out his equity agreement. He actually has 20% shares! “Scattered shares were acquired by me long ago. I hold 20%, Cynthia has 35%. Who do you support?” Uncle Wang, Uncle Zhao and others successively expressed support for Vincent. Vincent crossed his legs looking down at me, tone arrogant. “Now 40% stand by my side. You only have 35%. Give up.” I looked at the door, waiting for another shareholder. Vincent looked away, mouth curling into a sarcastic smile. Half an hour later, Director Lee arrived late, looked at me. “Cynthia, you shouldn’t be like this.” My eyes reddened instantly. “Third Uncle, Vincent betrayed me.” Third Uncle pulled me aside to scold. “Even if Vincent is wrong, you shouldn’t bring it to the surface. Men need face. Alright, solve this at home.” “I support Vincent.” Others aside, didn’t expect my own Third Uncle would help Vincent. Voice fell, Vincent stood up thanking everyone. “Cynthia, 46% support me total. What else do you have to say.” “President Vincent don’t forget, there is still a 19% share holder who hasn’t expressed stance.”

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The CEO saw me as a vicious gold digger. With a wave of his hand, he threw a check for $1 million at me, demanding I leave his Executive Assistant, Jason. I smiled and tucked the check into my pocket: “Deal! Mr. Sterling is so generous!” After taking the money, I immediately blocked Jason. Jason looked at the red exclamation mark on WeChat, crying his eyes out: “Sis, don’t you want your own brother anymore?” Chapter 1 Jason and I are biological siblings, though we might look like a random assortment. When our parents divorced, Mom waved her hand domineeringly: “I take the house and the daughter.” Dad wouldn’t show weakness: “I take the savings and the son.” So, I took Mom’s last name, Gu, and became an invisible landlady owning three condos downtown. Jason took Dad’s last name, Jiang, and became a poor corporate slave destined to inherit… uh, his dad’s ten-year-old second-hand car if he didn’t work hard. Jason, this kid, has had a “I’m miserable but I’m strong” weed-like temperament since childhood. As his older sister, to prevent him from being like Dad who couldn’t save a penny, I naturally had to give him an education named “Exploitation” but really “Love.” For example, on payday, 80% of his salary must be handed over to me for safekeeping. Actually, it’s to help him save for a wedding fund. Another example, he must be on call on weekends. At this moment, I was lying on the sofa with my legs crossed, issuing orders to the phone: “Hey, Jason, pick up a package for me on your way back from work.” From the other end came Jason’s suppressed voice, background noise filled with furious typing: “Sis… I’m still suffering in overtime…” “Cut the crap.” I blew on my freshly done nails, “Don’t eat dinner yet. Come over later for a feast. I ordered too much. If you dare eat before coming, I’ll skin you!” “Fine, I won’t eat, okay!” Jason hung up with a crying tone. Meanwhile, in a skyscraper in CBD. Jason hung up, looking at the name “She-Devil” on his phone screen, and sighed deeply. His stomach growled timely. He hadn’t eaten dinner. But he had to go to Gwen’s house later, so he could only snack a bit now. He sneaked into the pantry, skillfully fishing out a pack of free soda crackers from the depths of the cabinet. Jason gnawed on the dry crackers, swallowing them with warm water. “Yo, Assistant Jiang, eating this again?” Amy from Admin walked by with a cup of fancy yogurt, looking at him sympathetically, “Your girlfriend is too strict. Look at your suit cuffs, they’re frayed, and she won’t buy you a new one?” Jason almost choked on the cracker, face flushing: “N… Not girlfriend…” It’s a creature scarier than a girlfriend—biological sister. “Oh, I get it.” Amy looked like she knew it all, “Gold diggers these days have high tactics. Draining your money while making you think it’s for your own good. Look at you, Mr. Sterling’s Executive Assistant, salary isn’t low, right? Why do you look like you escaped from a refugee camp?” Jason couldn’t explain. “Actually… she’s saving money for me…” Jason defended weakly. “Tsk tsk tsk, only an honest guy like you would believe that.” Amy shook her head and left, leaving Jason alone doubting life with half a cracker. This scene was fully witnessed by Sebastian Sterling, who just came out of the conference room. Sebastian, Jason’s boss, a business upstart with immeasurable wealth. At this moment, he stood in the shadows, frowning tight. Jason was his most capable assistant, strong ability, tight-lipped, hardworking. But recently, Sebastian found this subordinate was always stingy. Counting every penny. Sebastian originally thought Jason’s family had some trouble, like a sick father or loan sharks. Until just now, he heard the words “Gold Digger.” Sebastian returned to the CEO’s office, slender fingers tapping the desk. “Found anything?” The assistant immediately handed over a file, looking a bit weird: “Mr. Sterling, found it. Assistant Jiang’s cash flow is very… singular.” Sebastian opened the file. On Jason’s payroll statement, the second his salary arrived each month, a huge sum would be transferred to an account. Recipient: Gwen Gu. Transfer notes were varied, filled with suffocating “PUA” vibes: –[This month’s tribute, please check, Your Majesty.] –[Monthly bonus, please check, Your Majesty.] “Gwen Gu…” Sebastian read the name, eyes turning cold. He flipped to the next page, photos taken by a private investigator. In the photo, Jason followed a young woman, carrying bags of cat food and packages. Although only a side profile was captured, the woman dressed casually, hair messy. And Jason, a top university graduate, was so humble in front of this woman. “Good tactics.” Sebastian sneered, closing the file, “Controlling a man to this extent, pretending to be virtuous in broken pajamas… while pocketing all the money.” The assistant added carefully: “Heard… Assistant Jiang is going to her house to pick up packages after overtime tonight.” Bang! The pen in Sebastian’s hand was slammed onto the desk. This is bullying. Since when did Sebastian’s people get trampled by such a vain woman? “Prepare the car.” Sebastian stood up, adjusting his suit that had no wrinkles, eyes flashing with the light of justice, “Let’s meet this ‘Miss Gu’.” And by the way, wake up that woman who doesn’t know the immensity of heaven and earth with money. At this time, I was wearing those “broken pajamas” to take out the trash and pick up my spicy ramen delivery. I had no idea that a furious CEO was driving towards me murderously. Chapter 2 A Maybach that looked hard to park blocked my way. The window rolled down, revealing a face that was indeed handsome, but eyes filled with “30% coolness, 30% ridicule, and 40% carelessness.” The man looked me up and down, gaze lingering on the two bowls of spicy ramen in my hand. “You are Gwen Gu?” Voice was nice, just the tone sounded like interrogating a criminal. I sniffed: “Where is this scam from? Pay property fees at the front desk. Selling insurance… I have no money.” The man sneered, pushing the door open. “I am Jason’s boss, Sebastian Sterling.” He cut to the chase, “I want to talk to you.” Talk? Did Jason the idiot cause trouble at the company? My heart tightened, but face remained calm: “Talk about what? If Jason isn’t obedient, you can beat him, just don’t fire him, he needs this job to make money! “Wait, if the severance package is right, like a 5N something… let me calculate how much that is…” Sebastian’s eyes instantly became sharper, as if looking at an unforgivable witch. “As expected.” He muttered low, then took out a check from his pocket, clipped between two fingers, handing it to me. “Here is one million dollars.” Me: “?” Firing my brother for a million? Why didn’t I know his income was this high? Dare to lie to me! Wait… Jason definitely wouldn’t dare lie to me! Is the man in front of me scamming? But… what kind of new scam is this? Or a prank show? Where is the camera? Seeing I didn’t take it, Sebastian thought I found it too little, frowning deep enough to kill a fly. “Miss Gu, one should be content. Jason is just an assistant, his monthly salary isn’t enough to buy your… pajamas, right?” Although my pajamas were $9.99 free shipping from Amazon, his tone made it sound like I was wearing the Emperor’s New Clothes. “I know your tactics are brilliant, confusing Jason, making him transfer his salary to you the moment it arrives, and come to serve you like a slave after work.” Sebastian took a deep breath, seeming to suppress some anger named “Justice.” “But he is an honest man, and has a bright future. I don’t want him ruined by a woman like you… who is vain and greedy.” “Take this million, leave him. No more asking him for money, no more ordering him around.” At that moment, the world was quiet. I looked at the check. Then looked at Sebastian’s handsome face written with “humiliating you with this.” After my CPU ran fast for three seconds, I realized. We have different last names. He is Jiang, I am Gu. We have financial dealings. He hands over salary monthly. We also have… intimate actions? Coming to my house daily, free nanny? I realized it! In this CEO’s eyes, I am a scumbag, gold digger, love scammer who PUA his beloved subordinate. What to do? “Oh, Mr. Sterling, you misunderstood, I am his…” Before the words “biological sister” came out, my brain immediately imagined Sebastian smiling awkwardly, taking back the check, saying “Sorry, my mistake”… So… being his sister means losing a million dollars?! Of course not. I am a Taurus. Refusing money delivered to the door will bring divine punishment. I took a deep breath, revealing a smile named “Greed.” I extended two fingers, clipped the check, and flicked it, hearing a crisp sound. “Deal.” I looked at him smilingly, “Mr. Sterling is indeed generous. Since you asked, I will definitely follow. From today on, I will definitely not pester Jason anymore!” Sebastian obviously didn’t expect me to agree so readily. His stomach full of bargaining and ridicule was choked in his throat. He looked at me, a flash of astonishment in his eyes, then turned into deeper contempt. “As expected, just someone who opens eyes wide at money.” “Thanks for the compliment.” I stuffed the check into my pajama pocket, then waved at him, “Then safe travels, Mr. Sterling? I won’t see you off. My spicy ramen delivery just arrived, gotta eat it while hot.” Finished, turned and ran. Afraid that if I ran a bit slower, this sucker would regret it, find my brother not worth a million, and ask for the money back.

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While scrolling on company time, my phone pushed a Reddit thread to me. [AITA for falling in love with the new intern at first sight, even though his girlfriend is also interning at the company?] Top comment: [If he has a girlfriend, give up. Do you want to be a homewrecker?] The OP replied with a long paragraph. [Let me introduce myself: 30, single, no kids, own a car and house, have savings. Except for being 8 years older than him, I don’t lose to his girlfriend in any way.] [Is it really right to give up when I finally found someone I like?] Immediately, a bunch of people popped up to give her advice. [The young couple just graduated, haven’t experienced the beatings of society or conflicts of interest. If you drive a wedge between them, they’ll probably break up!] [Support OP to pursue love bravely. I think the comment above is right. Be nice to his girlfriend, so the guy feels unbalanced. Once they argue, they’ll definitely break up.] [Then you can block the girl’s full-time offer. Won’t the company just be left with you and the guy?] I cursed silently in my heart, “Psycho,” and didn’t take it to heart. Who knew, that afternoon, Director Mandy called me and my boyfriend into her office. She said to us: “Corporate sent down a key project. Whoever gets this interview can be converted to full-time early!” Chapter 1 Hearing this, I frowned subconsciously. Probably because I just came out of that thread not long ago. So, I almost immediately associated it with the content inside. But within a second, I shook my head, throwing this thought out. How could there be such a coincidence in this world? Hearing my boyfriend Kyle say “No problem,” I quickly responded, “Yes, Director.” Seeing us both agree, Director Mandy nodded and let us leave. She doesn’t look like the OP in the thread at all. I was overthinking. I instantly threw this matter to the back of my mind. Out of the office, Kyle and I verbally drafted a gentleman’s agreement. “No matter who wins or loses, no one is allowed to be unhappy!” “No matter who gets this interview, we go out to celebrate!” We laughed tacitly. Actually, when we decided to intern at the same company, we anticipated competition. But neither of us thought this would affect our relationship. At least, a month has passed, and we both adapted very well. We don’t worry about fitting in, going to work, eating, and leaving work together every day. Boyfriend and girlfriend, and also best work buddies. I’ve said more than once that I love our current state. Kyle too. After work today, we didn’t go home together as usual but went our separate ways. I guessed Kyle would definitely go to block that CEO. So, I decided to take a different approach and contacted the CEO’s daughter. It is said that this CEO, Mr. Sterling, is a daughter-slave. Starting from his daughter might be easier to succeed. Probably because the chat was pleasant, she promised to put in a good word for me. When I returned home satisfied, I found Kyle had already cooked dinner. And he looked in a good mood. My heart skipped a beat, thinking, am I a step too late? Just thinking that, I heard Kyle say to me: “Babe, Mr. Sterling has agreed to accept my interview. You were a step late, don’t be unhappy, okay?” He couldn’t hide his joy, but there was no intention to show off. Moreover, he cooked so many dishes I love, I naturally felt happy for him. “Then congratulations in advance on becoming full-time!” I smiled. He patted my head, coaxing me: “My baby is so great, converting to full-time won’t be a problem either. When I get my salary, I’ll give it all to you to manage.” I nodded, not feeling lost because of this. Even felt sweet because of his words. So much so that I forgot to message Miss Sterling. Until I woke up the next day, I didn’t remember this. When we arrived at the company the next day, Director Mandy called me and Kyle into the office. I knew she definitely wanted to talk about the interview and the full-time offer. I was prepared to be criticized. The workplace is like this. But what I didn’t expect was that Director Mandy walked up to me. Smiling, she said: “Zoe, congratulations on getting this interview opportunity. Perform well!” As her words fell, the smiles on my and Kyle’s lips froze. Chapter 2 In the end, I reacted first, explaining subconsciously: “Director Mandy, is there a misunderstanding? Kyle got the interview opportunity!” Kyle also came back to his senses. However, he didn’t blame me immediately. Just asked with equal confusion. “Yesterday afternoon, Mr. Sterling personally agreed to accept my interview. Did something change?” Director Mandy seemed not to expect there was such a story inside. She immediately showed a surprised expression. Said: “But Mr. Sterling called me this morning, explicitly naming Zoe for the interview.” I frowned. Don’t know why, a bad premonition rose in my heart. Before I could speak, I heard Director Mandy say to me earnestly: “Zoe, I know you are boyfriend and girlfriend, but at work, there’s no need to yield to each other like this!” “I believe you have this ability. Good luck.” After speaking, she looked at Kyle again. Speaking in an educational tone: “Kyle! Competition at work is completely normal. It’s okay, missed this time, there’s always next time!” Kyle nodded. Although there was disappointment on his face. But he still said: “No matter what, this is beneficial to the company.” Director Mandy nodded, didn’t say more, and shooed us out. Outside, Kyle said to me: “It’s okay babe, do the interview well, accumulate experience!” “Don’t feel burdened, work hard.” I nodded absently, always feeling something was wrong. Just then, I received a message from Miss Sterling. I realized maybe the change was due to Miss Sterling. I hurriedly explained to her and asked her to clarify with Mr. Sterling. Miss Sterling called directly and scolded me. “If you didn’t beg me, I wouldn’t have spoken for you in front of my dad!” “Shouldn’t you be happy snatching this interview from your boyfriend? Why pretend now!” “Don’t contact me again!” With that, she hung up. Then, the message I sent turned into a red exclamation mark. I sighed in confusion, turned around, and saw Kyle standing behind me. Obviously heard the words from the phone just now, a look of disbelief on his face. I opened my mouth, about to explain. Heard him say angrily: “Zoe, if you wanted this interview opportunity, I could have given it up to you, but calculating behind my back is meaningless, right?” I was sure I didn’t calculate Kyle. But someone definitely calculated me. Just as I was about to explain my matter with Miss Sterling. I heard Director Mandy’s voice behind me. “Kyle, come to my office!” When Kyle came out of the office, it was already half an hour later. But work was busy later, and I didn’t find a chance to talk. Finally waited until lunch break, Kyle left a cold sentence: “I have something to do this noon, won’t eat with you.” With that, he turned and left. I knew he must have believed Miss Sterling’s words on the phone. No chance to explain face to face, I had to message him. But until he came back from lunch break, until off work, he didn’t reply to me. On the way back, silence all the way. After getting home, I couldn’t help asking. “Kyle, did you see what I sent you…” Before I finished, I saw him pulling out a suitcase and starting to pack. I panicked instantly, asking anxiously: “Kyle, what do you mean!?” I’ve been with Kyle since freshman year. Counting now, we’ve been together for four years. Is he going to break up with me just because of this? I grabbed his arm, trying to stop him. Heard him say: “Zoe, the interview project is yours, do it well. Director Mandy asked me to accompany her on a business trip. We’ll talk when I get back.” “Let’s both adjust our mindset.” With that, he dragged the suitcase and left the house. Accompany Director Mandy on a business trip? I frowned, thinking of something, ghost-driven, I found that thread from yesterday and clicked in. Sure enough, the OP updated. Chapter 3 [I arranged an interview project for them, let my old acquaintance agree to the guy first, then made him change to name the girl for the interview. Today the two argued in the break room.] [I’ve arranged for the guy to go on a business trip with me. Sisters, wait for my good news!] Everything matched. Now, I finally confirmed that this thread was posted by Director Mandy. I didn’t expect her to be such a person! Under this update, many netizens were camping for updates. I was furious, trembling hands commenting. [What’s the difference between this behavior and a homewrecker? You are disgusting!] My sentence quickly got a reply from Mandy. [Although taking advantage of a crisis is shameful, isn’t it useful? If I can really pry him away, maybe the other party should thank me!] Although her words made sense, I still felt suffocated. Before I could reply again, netizens started questioning me. [WTF! Same IP address. The poster is so angry, could she be the girlfriend?] [Why argue with the OP here? Getting your boyfriend back is the priority!] I knew these netizens weren’t considering for me. Just purely want to watch the drama. However, within two seconds, my comment was deleted. I gritted my teeth, clicked into WeChat, and called Kyle. He answered quickly. “Zoe, no need to explain, I saw it. I know, this isn’t your fault!” “I’ll bring you gifts when I come back from the trip.” He said to me in that gentle tone he used to have. Hearing his words, my heart calmed down inexplicably. Yeah! I’ve been with Kyle for so long, we have so many beautiful memories. How could I doubt him because of a thread! Mandy said one thing right, if she could really pry Kyle away. It would help me see Kyle clearly instead. Thinking this way, I wasn’t angry anymore. However, uncontrollably, I couldn’t help but click into the thread. Mandy didn’t update for a long time, Kyle reported to me all the time. As if this conflict didn’t affect our relationship. I gradually felt relieved. Until the night before he came back from the trip, we were FaceTiming as usual. Not long after, there was a knock on the door over there. Immediately, I heard Mandy’s voice. “Little Song (Kyle), the shower in my room is broken, can I borrow yours?” Kyle obviously didn’t think much, agreed immediately. I became alert. Wanted to ask Kyle to go out and call me. But unexpectedly, before I could speak, Kyle hung up hurriedly. My good mood vanished instantly. [Don’t hang up on me! Call me back right now!] [Kyle, I’m going to be angry!] No reply to the messages sent. I called back. Still unable to connect. Several minutes passed before Kyle replied to my message. [Zoe, I have something to do, talk later.] What could he have to do? A man and a woman alone, what could happen? I wanted to trust him, but found it hard in this situation. I kept refreshing the page, but didn’t get his “talk later.” Until 3 AM, my heart gradually became cold and numb. I stopped messaging him. But seeing the thread update, I couldn’t help clicking in. Saw Mandy’s latest update at a glance. [These days I’ve been trying physical contact with him. Although he avoided it, I can feel he doesn’t resist me.] [Going back tomorrow. I used the excuse of a broken shower to enter his room. Yes, we kissed. I asked if he did this with his girlfriend, he said no.] [I asked if he wanted to try with me. He was moved, but stopped in the end. Said he couldn’t sorry his girlfriend.] [Sisters! What should I do now?] These words stabbed my heart like needles, making me breathless. I knew Mandy might have written this for me to see, maybe not true. But if not true, why didn’t Kyle reply to me? My eyes reddened, already deciding to break up with Kyle. I even packed my luggage. But unexpectedly, just before I said breakup. Kyle suddenly said to me: “Zoe, I plan to resign.” Chapter 4 I froze then. Didn’t know what he meant by saying this now. Because we were at work, he didn’t explain much, and I didn’t ask. I only knew he wrote a resignation letter and submitted it then. But I couldn’t be happy at all. Didn’t sleep all night, eyes sore and dry, mind chaotic. Normally, I should be happy now. But thinking of those words I saw yesterday, I couldn’t smile. Thought, let’s make it clear after work. Not long after Kyle submitted his resignation, he was called into the office. Came out ten minutes later. When he came out, I saw a very obvious wound on the corner of his mouth. And this wound wasn’t there before entering the office. Almost without thinking deep, I knew what happened. I curled my lips mockingly, finding my thought just now funny. Since betrayal is a fact, there’s nothing to talk about. During lunch, I clicked into the thread again. Sure enough, Mandy updated again. [The little boy is quite innocent, actually wants to resign! Pity, I didn’t agree.] [I said if he sleeps with me for one night, I’ll approve his resignation, and won’t trouble his girlfriend in the future.] Seeing her words, I felt disgusted instantly, lost appetite. Ate two bites hurriedly, returned to my desk. Mandy’s thread continued updating. Netizens asked her: [Then what do you do? Giving up?] [Sigh, listening to OP’s description, feels the guy is interested in you too. Probably conflicted. Feels hard to make the guy initiate breakup, better let the girl break up!] [Hiss! Sister you’re bold! The guy hasn’t done it yet, just make him addicted to your body!] Mandy liked the last comment. Replied: [Men, can’t withstand temptation!] Then replied to everyone: [Don’t worry, I have a plan. Not only can I make him initiate breakup, but also make the girl resign voluntarily!] Under this sentence, everyone commented waiting for her good news. I felt uneasy. I can accept Kyle falling for someone else, can accept work not going smoothly. But I can’t accept work and relationship failing simultaneously. I don’t know what she wants to do, but felt this is an opportunity. Since she wants to harm me so much, I’ll let her know what harming others eventually harms oneself means. After work, I stopped Kyle. “I have something to tell you!” “We…” Let’s break up. Before the last three words came out, Kyle interrupted. “Zoe, I have something to tell you too, but I have something tonight, tell you tomorrow!” With that, he turned and left. Instantly, I thought of the thread content. Looking at the direction he disappeared, I couldn’t help curling my lips. Until this moment, I was finally completely disappointed in this man. Mandy was right, men can’t withstand temptation. Since he can’t hold the bottom line, I don’t want him! That night back home, I moved my luggage to my friend’s house. Knowing this, my friend angrily scolded Mandy in the thread for over an hour. But the other party was probably busy with “business,” didn’t see the post. Instead, many netizens came to watch the drama. “Pissing me off!” Hearing my friend’s voice, I patted her arm. Smiled: “Busy is good, busy is good!” Before my friend could react to what I meant. I clicked the share link on the top right, sharing this thread to the company group chat. Accurately, the big company group. Then sent two messages: [Bestie, help me look, why do I feel the people in this thread look like my boss and boyfriend?] [They just went on a business trip together two days ago, today my boyfriend isn’t coming home either.] My friend’s eyes widened, silently giving me a thumbs up. In a while, surprised emojis appeared in the group chat. My heart felt instantly refreshed! However, within two seconds, the phone rang. It was Kyle calling. Answering, heard his questioning voice from over there: “Zoe, what are you posting in the company group? Recall it quickly!”

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After my husband died, his twin brother’s personality suddenly changed drastically. The originally silent and steady man suddenly became sunny and loved joking. He used to treat his beautiful sister-in-law like an old married couple, but recently swept away his reserve, lights in her room staying on all night. During the day, he shamelessly held hands and hugged her waist in front of people. Until that night, he groggily entered the wrong room after using the bathroom and climbed into my bed. Suddenly approached by a familiar body, I finally saw through him. I knelt and begged him to come home, but he protected the charming sister-in-law, flinging me away coldly: “Sister-in-law, the dead cannot come back to life, stop being crazy!” Afraid I would make a scene, he pushed me into the icy river to freeze to death, and my five-year-old daughter was chained to a dog house and starved to death. Opening my eyes again, I returned to the day of his “funeral.” This time, I didn’t expose him. I cried and cooperated, “It’s hot, cremate him quickly, don’t delay.” While he was busy destroying the evidence, I went straight to the police station and completely canceled the identity of “Luke”! Holding the urn, I went to collect the huge pension with a smile. Chapter 1 “Sister-in-law, my condolences… the dead cannot come back to life…” My husband Luke, with red eyes, looked at me with a face full of grief, mimicking his older brother’s tone. Looking at the man’s corpse covered by a white cloth, I cooperated with a scream, threw myself on it, and cried hoarsely: “How could you leave like this!” My mother-in-law Brenda walked over, pulled me, and muttered: “Lily, stop crying. Luke is gone, but Liam is back. Our family still has a backbone.” I acted as if I had a “sudden realization,” wiped my tears, and choked: “Brother, from now on, this family depends on you.” Luke looked at me with complex eyes, “Sister-in-law, don’t worry. With me here, I won’t let you and your daughter suffer.” As he spoke, his eyes involuntarily glanced at the door of the inner room. There, my sister-in-law Scarlett was leaning against the door frame, wearing a fashionable red dress that set off her fair skin and beauty, her figure bursting out. She looked at Luke with hooks in her eyes, a faint smile of triumph on her lips. In the 80s, the tycoon Liam was a legend in the area, and his beautiful wife Scarlett was the dream of men in the dead of night. Luke had been drooling over her for a long time. I cried for a while, wiped my dry tears, and said to Luke: “It’s hot, the body can’t be kept for long. You hurry to contact the crematorium, let him go with dignity, don’t delay.” Hearing this, Luke looked relieved, nodding immediately: “Sister-in-law is right! I’ll do it right away!” Luke couldn’t wait to send that corpse to the van. He was more anxious than anyone to destroy the evidence. In my past life, my husband Luke swapped identities, using his brother Liam’s corpse to fake his death, and openly got together with Scarlett. My mother-in-law also called me a jinx who killed her son and made me serve Scarlett during her postpartum confinement. Their family conspired to make me work like a horse. But I realized he wasn’t dead, knelt and cried begging him to come home, asking why he impersonated his brother. He protected the charming Scarlett, said I was crazy and talking nonsense, and pushed me, who couldn’t swim, into the icy river. My five-year-old daughter cried asking why daddy didn’t want her, but was chained to a dog house and starved for seven days and nights. Our orphan and widow duo, one froze to death, one starved to death. Reborn, I would rather be a widow than want this dog of a man. I thought coldly: Luke, since you want to be Liam so much, want to fly with Scarlett so much, fine, I’ll fulfill your wish. You just be Liam for the rest of your life! Luke moved fast, coming back with an urn in less than half a day. A simple mourning hall had been set up at home according to custom. On the black and white photo was Luke’s smiling face. Heh, Luke is really something, burying “himself” personally. Neighbors came to offer condolences, sighing that a glorious tycoon turned into a pile of ash just like that. I looked pale and haggard, having lost a lot of weight. In the eyes of outsiders, I really looked like a widow who lost her husband and was heartbroken. Luke, no, should call him “Liam” now. He put his arm around Scarlett’s waist, walked up to me, and said in the tone of an older brother-in-law: “Sister-in-law, Scarlett is weak, can’t stand the smell of incense, and is afraid of bad luck. She doesn’t need to keep vigil.” He helped Scarlett sit on a chair nearby, his face full of feigned grief and unconcealable tenderness. I was too lazy to look at their disgusting faces, but Scarlett took the initiative to speak. Her seductive peach blossom eyes glanced at me sideways, tone full of charity: “Lily, now that Luke is gone, you a woman with a sick child, will have many places to beg our Liam in the future. You can’t take advantage for free, right?” Her greed was undisguised. “Liam” immediately echoed: “Yes, Sister-in-law, I remember Luke said before that you have a thousand dollars of private money given by your family? Why not take it out first to buy a VCD player for Scarlett to relieve her boredom at home.” “You are a sister-in-law, and a widow with an orphan, what do you need so much money for? If Scarlett is in a good mood, she can take care of you two in the future.” I looked up sharply, bloodshot eyes staring dead at him. A thousand dollars! That was the last bit of savings my mom desperately saved for me before she died, and it was the life-saving money I prepared to take Lola to the city to treat her asthma! How dare he! “Liam” felt a bit guilty under my gaze, but still stiffened his neck and said righteously: “What are you looking at? This is what Luke promised me before he died, saying he would pool money to buy me a motorcycle. Now that he’s gone, you have to take this money out, right? Besides, Scarlett suffered so much with my brother, now that my brother is gone, I as a younger brother can’t compensate my sister-in-law for him?” In his panic, he even forgot his current identity, sometimes Liam, sometimes Luke. The neighbors were confused, but all felt it was unseemly for an older brother-in-law to ask a newly widowed sister-in-law for money. I was silent for a few seconds, then suddenly covered my face and wailed. “No money! Not a penny left! Luke’s money was long spent by himself on eating, drinking, whoring, and gambling! Even my dowry was secretly pawned by him! I don’t even have money to buy medicine for Lola now!” “Liam” was anxious and blurted out: “Impossible! You clearly still have a thousand! That passbook is in…” He stopped abruptly halfway, his face turning extremely ugly. I seized this slip of the tongue, crying even harder, pointing at him and accusing: “Brother-in-law! My husband just died, his bones are not yet cold, and instead of guarding the mourning hall, you run to force a widow for her private money! Are you trying to drive us mother and daughter to death?!” This was naturally false. Although Luke was a jerk, he hadn’t reached the point of whoring and gambling. But now, dead men tell no tales, he couldn’t refute at all. The neighbors looked at me with sympathy and began to persuade “Liam” to be more tolerant as a man. “Liam, your sister-in-law isn’t having it easy.” “Yeah, she’ll need your care in the future.” “You are a tycoon, what do you need that $1000 for!” “Liam’s” face turned green and white, too angry to speak. Chapter 2 I sneered, turned and rushed into the room, carried out all of Luke’s things—his work clothes, our wedding photos… all of them. “Luke left these useless things! I’ll burn them for him in front of everyone now, saving some people from thinking about them!” I dragged over the fire basin for burning paper money, threw them in without looking! Flames whoosh shot up. “Lily, what are you doing!” “Liam” subconsciously wanted to rush over to stop me, but stopped abruptly after taking a step, face black as a pot bottom. He is “Liam” now, what right does he have to stop a “sister-in-law” from burning her “late husband’s” belongings? I picked up our wedding photo. In the photo, he smiled brightly, and I was full of happiness. I stared at the photo for a few seconds, then decisively threw it into the fire basin. The glass of the frame cracked in the heat, making a “crackling” sound. “Liam” finally couldn’t hold back, he rushed over, voice trembling: “Sister-in-law! These are the memories Luke left for you! What do you mean by burning them all?” I raised my tearful eyes, voice choking and shrill: “The person is gone, what’s the use of keeping these dead things?!” “Moreover, you all force me! My man just left, and you come to ask for money! You can’t wait to skin us orphans and widows!” I cried bitterly, heartbroken. Everyone around was moved, looking at “Liam” and Scarlett differently. “Liam’s” face was iron green, fists clenched, but could only watch helplessly as I burned every trace of his existence in this world, bit by bit, into ashes. Back in the room, my daughter Lola pulled my clothes, looking up with a pale little face, asking me puzzledly: “Mommy, that man outside is clearly Daddy, why does everyone say he is Uncle?” My heart hurt sharply. Yes, even a five-year-old child can recognize him, but he can be cruel enough to ignore his own daughter. I hugged Lola tightly, trying not to let tears fall. “Lola be good, that’s not Daddy. Daddy… Daddy has gone to a very far place.” The next day, I entrusted Lola to a trustworthy neighbor and took the bus to the county town myself. I went to the textile factory where “Liam” worked before he died and went straight to the factory director’s office. The director, Mr. Wang, was a kind-looking middle-aged man. Seeing me, he sighed: “Comrade Lily, we heard about Comrade Luke. It’s really a pity, he was the youngest workshop director in our factory.” I lowered my head, shoulders trembling slightly, acting grief-stricken. Director Wang comforted: “Luke passed away on the way to transport raw materials. If you have any difficulties, just mention them, the factory will try its best to solve them.” This was exactly what I was waiting for. I raised my head without hesitation and said my plan. “Director Wang, I want to request to cancel Luke’s household registration from the factory, settle the pension in one lump sum according to the regulations for death on duty, and convert the unassigned house into money for me.” Director Wang was a bit surprised: “Cancel registration? Comrade Lily, according to regulations, you can take over Luke’s position and work in the factory. This is an iron rice bowl. And the pension can be collected monthly, so you and your son have a guarantee for life.” This was exactly what I wanted to avoid. Taking over the position meant I would still be involved with this factory and the Li family. I shook my head, tears flowing again: “Director, I don’t want to stay in this sad place. Lola has asthma, I want to take her to the big city for treatment. Staying here, seeing the factory, I think of Luke… I really can’t hold on.” “So I want to collect the pension in one lump sum, then leave here with the child and start over.” My reason was reasonable. A heartbroken widow wanting to stay away from a sad place, no one could say anything. Director Wang pondered for a moment and nodded: “I understand your feelings. Okay, I’ll report to the superiors. Don’t worry, Comrade Luke had an accident while pulling raw materials for the factory, definitely counts as sacrifice on duty, the pension will be generous.” Chapter 3 The process went faster than I imagined. Three days later, I not only got Luke’s official death certificate and household registration cancellation documents but also received a pension of up to $3,000 and a $50,000 housing subsidy. This was a huge sum in 1988. I held the money and documents tightly in my arms and returned to that disgusting home. Entering the yard, I saw my mother-in-law Brenda sitting in the yard cracking melon seeds. Seeing me come in, she spat the shells at my feet and spoke sarcastically: “Yo, jinx is back? Running out all day after husband died, don’t know which wild man you hooked up with outside! My son was really unlucky to marry a bad luck star like you!” In the corner of the yard, five-year-old Lola was squatting on the ground, struggling to scrub a large basin of clothes, her small hands red from cold and covered with foam. My anger shot to the top of my head, immediately rushing over to pick up my daughter. “Lola is only five! Can’t you see her hands are soaked white!” Brenda glared, hands on hips cursing: “You two live in my Li house, eat my Li food, don’t work and want to be offered as ancestors?” I sneered: “Fine, since you say so, we’ll leave! Anyway, my man is dead, I’m an outsider here, won’t take advantage of your Li family!” Saying that, I turned to leave holding Lola. Brenda panicked hearing this, rushed over to block me: “Want to leave? Not so easy! Scarlett is about to give birth, who will serve her if you leave? Eating and drinking for free in my house for so many years, want to leave just like that, dream on!” Under the window of the inner room, Scarlett was touching her belly that didn’t show at all, looking at me triumphantly. “Sister-in-law, not that I want to scold you, but your own belly didn’t live up to expectations. What I’m carrying is Liam’s only root, the only eldest grandson of the Li family, you have to serve well with all your heart.” Luke walked out from behind her, holding her waist with one hand, ordering me: “Lily, Mom is old, Scarlett needs someone to take care of her now. Don’t throw a tantrum.” I laughed in anger. When I was pregnant with Lola, where was he as a husband? When my water broke, I ran to the town health center alone, pain almost killing me. Brenda treated me coldly because the ultrasound showed a girl, didn’t give me a sip of hot soup during confinement. Luke was nowhere to be seen, using busy work as an excuse, never visited the hospital once. Now, why do they want me to serve this usurper woman like a slave? I gritted my teeth, holding Lola back to our small dark room, closed the door, carefully dried her small hands, and applied my homemade clam oil. Outside the door, came the lowered voices of “Liam” and Scarlett. “Look at Lily’s dead look. If you weren’t smart and replaced the identity, the child and I would have been bullied to death by her.” Scarlett’s voice was coquettish. “Liam’s” voice was gentle enough to drip water: “Don’t worry Scarlett, for you and our child, I’m willing to do anything. I will protect you for a lifetime.” “Mom is also on your side, otherwise how could she agree to let me impersonate big brother. That old lady only recognizes money and grandson.” My palm was pierced by nails, lips almost bitten to bleed. So the child in Scarlett’s belly is Luke’s! So they hooked up long ago! So from beginning to end, mother-in-law Brenda knew everything! Their family, gang up to treat me as a fool, a tool to be sacrificed and manipulated at will! I looked at Lola’s quiet sleeping face, took a deep breath, constantly telling myself: Lily, soon, soon can take the child away from this hell. Sure enough, two days later, Director Wang sent a message to me, saying a state-run guesthouse in the city needed an accountant, he had contacted for me, ready to report anytime. I immediately packed our few belongings, took all my belongings and documents, ready to leave at dawn. But unexpectedly, holding Lola and pushing open the door, I met “Liam’s” iron-green face. His gaze fell deadly on the bulging cloth bag in my hand, tone icy cold. “Lily, carrying a bag, where are you taking Lola?” Chapter 4 I subconsciously tightened the strap of the cloth bag, hiding Lola behind me. “Where I go is none of your business. You are now my older brother-in-law, my whereabouts as a sister-in-law are not your turn to manage, Liam.” I deliberately emphasized “Older Brother-in-law” and “Liam.” “Liam’s” face stiffened, then switched to a high-sounding rhetoric: “Scarlett is about to give birth, the family is short of hands. You just manage housework and take care of Lola like before, the family won’t be short of a meal for you two.” I looked at him coldly: “My man Luke is dead. What is it for a widow like me to stay in your house? Doesn’t sound good if spread out.” “We orphans and widows can’t help much. Scarlett is your wife, it’s more appropriate for you, the husband, to take care of her personally.” With that, I was about to lead Lola around him. “Liam” suddenly took a step forward, catching me off guard, snatching the long-distance bus ticket to the city I was clutching tightly! He glanced at the destination on the ticket, eyes instantly turned sinister, tearing the ticket to shreds in two or three moves! Paper scraps fell at our feet like snowflakes. “Lily…” He said unquestionably, “I’m doing this for your own good. A widow with a sick child, how will you live away from the Li family? Better stay home honestly, at least won’t starve.” Looking at the paper scraps on the ground, I trembled with rage. I pushed him hard: “What are you blocking me for now? Luke, don’t go too far!” In panic, I shouted his real name. His face changed drastically, but soon returned to that lofty look, expression impatient. “Don’t refuse a toast only to drink a forfeit! I said stay, what more do you want?” I only felt absurd and ridiculous. In previous life, I knelt begging him to save our daughter, he let Brenda kick us out, leaving us to die. Now, I want to leave voluntarily, they jump out one by one to stop. Just want to keep me as a free nanny, serving their family. “You are my brother-in-law, not my husband! I leave if I want, what right do you have to stop me!” I shouted sternly. He frowned, seemingly making a major decision, compromising: “Lily, are you this heartless? Luke’s bones aren’t cold yet, you can’t wait to leave?” He paused, lowering his voice: “Then I’ll take both wives okay? Don’t you just lack a man? I give you a title, odd days I sleep with Scarlett, even days with you…” Before he finished, I used all my strength and slapped him hard on the face! Slap! Crisp sound echoed in the morning yard. Luke was beaten to turn his head, half face swelling red visibly. He seemed to not expect me to dare hit him at all. Stunned for seconds, face suddenly gloomy enough to drip water. “Don’t be ungrateful!” He grabbed my wrist, force strong enough to crush my bones, “Dare walk out this gate, try it!” He dragged me into the house. I pressed my feet against the ground, struggling desperately. Just as we were tearing and entangled, noise came from outside the yard gate. Then, my yard gate was pushed open with a creak. Seeing the visitor, the ferocity and anger on Luke’s face froze instantly.

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While cleaning up my mom’s phone for Christmas, a Year-in-Review popped up from her airline app. [2025 Annual Summary: 121 Flights, 170,000 Kilometers Traveled] I laughed out loud on the spot. She’s afraid to even take the Greyhound bus to the next town. How could she fly alone? Just as I was about to uninstall the app, I accidentally clicked it open. [Frequent Destination: New York, Average Round Trip Every 6 Days] I froze instantly. My sister lives in New York. Disbelievingly, I tapped into the payment history. The $50,000 savings I entrusted to my mom… only $3.28 remained. In the dense list of transactions, round-trip tickets, fine dining, and luxury gifts appeared constantly. The latest transaction was a $12,000 luxury family trip to Hawaii for five. The note read: New Year with my baby daughter’s whole family. My sister, her husband, even her in-laws were included. Only I was missing. I thought of the time I had acute appendicitis, curled up in the ER calling her. She sighed on the other end: “The hospital is so far, Mom is really afraid to go out alone…” Turns out, I was the only fool kept in the dark. I called the bank immediately: “This transaction was not authorized by me. Please help me charge it back.” Chapter 1 Just hung up, Mom brought two plates of soggy potstickers to the table. A faint sour smell drifted up; who knows how long they’ve been frozen. Oblivious, she shoveled them into my bowl one by one. “The market downstairs is sold out, and you know Mom is afraid to go far…” “Let’s just make do with this meal. Mom will definitely make you something good next time.” My chest felt tight. Not for anything else, but since childhood, I was always the one “making do.” Elementary school field trip, both bento boxes were stuffed into my sister’s bag. I asked the neighbor to tell her I had no food, but Mom said she was too scared to go out. I starved for a day. In middle school boarding, I had a fever of 102 degrees. Contacted Mom, she said the school was too far, she was afraid to leave the house. But my sister’s school was even further, yet she went three times a week, delivering clothes and snacks. Even during the SATs, I went to the city alone for the exam, and my document bag was stolen on the bus. I was frantic, begging Mom to send me my backup admission ticket. She said her anxiety flared up, getting dizzy as soon as she stepped out. I watched helplessly as I missed the exam. When it was my sister’s turn, she personally escorted her to the exam hall. I asked her why she could go out for my sister. Mom clutched her chest, complaining: “My heart panics! It’s all because your sister is spoiled, only knows how to trouble Mom!” “Ellie, luckily you are sensible, know how to be considerate of Mom.” Because of the word “sensible.” For so many years, I swallowed my grievances and chose to understand her. But now, the 170,000 kilometers flight record slapped me hard in the face. Heart felt like a big hole was punched through, cold air rushing in. The dumplings at my mouth were hard to swallow. Seeing this, Mom frowned and urged. “Eat up, it’s mushroom and pork filling, isn’t it your favorite?” I put down my chopsticks, looking straight at her. “Mom, I don’t eat mushrooms. Chloe is the one who loves them.” Hearing this, Mom’s face changed. She sat down heavily, shouting: “I see it now, you just want to make me unhappy during the holidays!” “I serve you and you’re still not happy, not even half as sensible as your sister!” The last bit of thought to defend her dissipated completely. Mom went straight to the living room and video called my sister. Voice came clearly. “Spending holidays with your sister is a sin!” “Spent half a day making dumplings for her, she won’t eat a bite!” “Complaining I didn’t make her a big meal!” In just a few minutes, my heart went cold again and again. Speaker on, my sister Chloe’s sarcastic voice sounded: “Sis, Mom can’t go far, you know that.” “If you were really filial, you would take Mom out to a restaurant.” Mom took over: “She doesn’t have that heart! Came home for Christmas and didn’t even buy anything!” “You even bought Mom a scarf!” The two accused me back and forth, giving me no chance to interrupt. I didn’t buy things, but I gave a $1,000 red envelope. Chloe just bought a $19.99 scarf, and Mom was happy like this. Mom suddenly turned to glance at me: “It’s the holidays, I won’t bicker with you.” “Buy me a new phone. I’ve used this one for years, GPS isn’t accurate, easy to get lost when going out.” “Sure.” My tone was calm. “Didn’t I leave a card with you for safekeeping? Just take it and buy one.” Mom froze instantly. “Can’t save anything! That’s your savings, why touch it!” “Transfer me another $2,000, buy one for your sister too, as her New Year gift!” I sneered, piercing through them directly: “Not that you can’t touch it, but it’s all spent, right?” “The money you save from not flying to New York for a month is enough to buy a phone.” Chapter 2 Mom was stunned for a few seconds, then retorted sharply: “What New York? You know I can’t go far!” “You heartless thing, I kindly help you save money, and you accuse me!” She collapsed on the sofa, snot and tears flowing. Chloe followed suit: “Sis, look how you angered Mom during the holidays!” Listening to these black-and-white reversing words. I just felt a bit numb. I placed the bank card balance of $3.28 in front of them. “The $50,000 in the card, if you didn’t spend it, did it evaporate?” Her tears stopped suddenly. Expression became weird. “No wonder you’ve been pulling a face, turns out it’s because I spent a little of your money.” “Since you know, transfer me another $5,000, treat your sister’s family to a good meal.” I felt utterly absurd. Mom became more self-righteous as she spoke. Just as I was feeling suffocated, the bank called. I put it on speaker. “Ms. Chen, we understand your request.” “The detailed bill for the $12,000 charge has been sent to your phone. You can negotiate a refund with the travel agency.” Hearing this, Mom exploded: “What are you doing? You dare refund my Hawaii luxury tour?” I looked at her expressionlessly. “I didn’t spend this money, what’s wrong with me claiming it back?” “Besides, didn’t you say you can’t go far? What Hawaii?” My tone was full of mockery. Mom turned angry from shame, ran to the door, threw my suitcase and clothes out. “Get out! Get out right now! Raising you is worse than raising a dog!” The door slammed shut in front of my eyes. On this reunion day, I suddenly realized, I have no home. The streets were festive, lights decorating everywhere. Wearing a down jacket, I felt bone-piercing cold. Three hours later, I returned to my assigned dorm. Just collapsed on the sofa, phone rang one after another. It was Aunt Sarah. “Ellie! Your mom had an accident trying to find you!” “It was her first time taking the subway, didn’t understand the transfers, fell on the escalator, now in the city hospital!” Almost simultaneously, Mom posted a photo of her leg in a cast. She cried in the family group chat: “Ellie, where are you, come home quickly!” “Mom won’t scold you anymore, Mom will spend whatever you want…” Relatives saw this and came out to blame me: [Ellie, this is wrong of you, running away from home during holidays] [Your mom is afraid of cars, found her way to the city for you, not easy] [She raised you sisters alone, and you ask her for money? What an ungrateful wolf!] I didn’t speak. Just logged into the hospital app. There was indeed a medical record. [Common Cold] Nothing to do with injury. I laughed. I understood clearly what disappointment felt like. Seeing the group tagging me repeatedly. I suppressed the corners of my mouth, pulled out the bank statement and threw it into the group: [My mom is not someone afraid to go far] [She flies to New York twice a week on average to see my sister, 121 times a year] [The $50,000 I saved since graduation, all spent by her!] Chapter 3 The group went quiet instantly. A few minutes later, someone stood up to smooth things over: [Your sister married far away, your mom just couldn’t let go, that’s why she visited so many times] [Exactly! Why calculate so much within family] [Besides, your mom fell looking for you!] I didn’t speak, posted another screenshot of chat with Mom when I was hospitalized for appendicitis. [Mom, my acute appendicitis acted up, can you come take care of me for a few days?] [Too far, Mom is afraid to go] Looking at the two lines, I felt tears blurring my eyes. Long suppressed grievances made me send a voice message directly: “Mom, you think a three-hour drive is far, but my sister is thousands of miles away, and you go whenever you want.” “Are you afraid to go out, or do you just not care about me?” The group fell into silence. I suddenly felt so tired. Sent the last sentence. “My mom didn’t fall at all, everyone rest assured, happy holidays.” Attached the medical record screenshot. After doing this, I threw the phone aside and cooked myself a bowl of noodles. Until the phone dinged. The $12,000 travel refund arrived. I felt a bit better. Clicked WeChat, the small group of me, Mom, and sister already had 99+ messages. I didn’t look, just muted them. Started clearing my shopping cart for myself. Five years after graduation, I lived frugally, still living in the free employee dorm. Actually, I knew Mom was biased. But I couldn’t cut off the longing for family affection. From the first paycheck, I transferred living expenses to Mom. Varied at first, now fixed at $500 a month. Thinking back, this money probably all went into my sister’s pocket. Thinking of this, I canceled the monthly automatic transfer. Now I really thought it through. Next second, a call popped up. It was my sister. Her tone was resentful: “Sis, I agreed with my husband and in-laws! We leave tomorrow! You refunded the money, how can I face them?” “I know, you’re just jealous Mom didn’t take you, right?” “How about this, you add your share of money, let’s go play together.” Listening to her charitable tone, I sneered: “Why? This money is enough for me to travel a dozen times myself.” “My money, not a cent for you in the future.” With that, I hung up directly. Missing the flight, I thought it would finally be quiet. But the next day, a friend sent a frantic voice message: “Ellie! Look at Facebook, your mom posted about you online!!!” I clicked Facebook. The cover was Mom’s tearful face, the title piercing the heart: [Ten Years of a Mother PUA’d by Her Daughter] Chapter 4 My fingers trembled slightly. In the video, it was full of Mom’s accusations against me. She said she is 67, stepped out of her small town for the first time, having been a free nanny for me before. As if thinking of painful memories, Mom shed tears while speaking. “Actually, I always wanted to go out and see, but I was afraid and didn’t know how to take the bus.” “Whenever I asked my eldest daughter, she would frown and say I was stupid, useless to learn, and embarrassing.” “I fell into depression, feeling useless.” After saying this, she showed a depression diagnosis report. Wiped tears, continued: “Thanks to my little daughter teaching me hand in hand, encouraging me, giving me courage to step out.” “My condition slowly improved, able to enjoy convenient transportation, see the outside world.” Next second, Chloe appeared in the lens. Mother and daughter cried holding each other under the sunset by the sea. Post released six hours, over 100k likes. Uninformed netizens were moved by this mother-daughter love. But more were attacks on me, the ungrateful wolf: [This eldest daughter treats the elderly as a nanny, and belittles her, how vicious!] [For every like on this comment, the eldest daughter gets hit by a car!] My DMs were stuffed with nasty greetings. Chloe called triumphantly: “Sis, how’s the taste of being cyberbullied?” “If you reimburse the travel expenses for me and Mom, we’ll put in a few good words for you, deal?” This is the sister I loved since childhood. I refused directly: “F*ck off.” Soon my info was doxxed, seriously disturbing my life. I closed all social media directly. Until New Year’s Day, the door was knocked. It was my boss with hot New Year’s Eve dinner. What I didn’t expect was. Mom not only didn’t go home, but posted on Moments repeatedly to show off, big meals every time. But sister and her husband’s combined monthly salary in New York is only a few thousand. Mortgage needs in-laws’ subsidy every month. Where did Mom get the money to splash? Soon, I knew the answer. I received many collection calls and texts. She actually borrowed Payday Loans! I forwarded the texts intact to Mom. Next second, she shouted at top of her voice: “Anyway if you don’t pay, I won’t go back, they’ll find you!” Her shameless tone made me angry. At this point, she still wants to manipulate me? Impossible. I pretended nothing happened, spent a lively New Year with my boss’s family. Until the debt exceeded $100,000, collectors couldn’t hold back. This morning, I was blocked by several burly men at the street corner. The leader looked fierce: “Your mom owes over a hundred grand, should have paid back long ago!” “Either pay, or we empty your house!” I honestly took them home. Opened the door, everyone dumbfounded. Room was empty. I took out the lease termination, spread hands helplessly: “Big brother, not that I don’t want to help her pay, this house was sold last week, moved out long ago.” “I really have no money to pay you, still living in the company.” Looking at the bewildered debt collection gang. I kindly opened the map guide: “But my sister’s family is quite rich, she lives in New York, and is filial.” “Go find her, she will definitely give money.”

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Tonight is New Year’s Eve, and also my anniversary with my boyfriend. At 6:05 PM, I picked up my bag, ready to clock out, but was blocked by my boss. “Leaving so early? Who allowed you to leave?” He leaned against the door frame, tone sarcastic. “Didn’t you see I haven’t left yet? You are the most unruly person in the entire company.” I pointed to the time on my phone: “Company policy says work ends at 6:00. It’s 6:05 now.” “Leaving on time is perfectly justified.” The boss’s face sank: “In this company, I am the law.” “Who are you to talk rules with me?” “I say you haven’t finished, you sit back down obediently.” I froze for a few seconds, then took out my phone and sent a text to my boyfriend. “My boss won’t let me leave. Cancel that project we talked about.” Chapter 1 “What kind of attitude is this! I’m talking to you, and you’re playing with your phone?” “Do you have any respect for me as your boss!” Boss Sterling saw me taking out my phone to text, his face darkening instantly. I put away my phone, tone flat: “Since I can’t leave on time, I have to tell my boyfriend. Is there a problem?” “Is there a problem? Huge problem!” Sterling looked me up and down, eyes full of contempt. “I wondered why your efficiency has been so low lately. Turns out your mind is all on romance!” “A girl thinking about dating all day, what future can you have?” Heh, my future doesn’t depend on you, and you can’t afford it either. Sure enough, jobs found by submitting resumes myself are unreliable. I should have listened to Preston and taken a leisurely job at his company. Drinking tea and reading newspapers every day would be better than watching people’s faces here. Besides, I have always been diligent. Projects delivered on time, overtime not rare. How is my efficiency low? Simply nonsense. Counting it up, this is the twelfth time this month the boss picked on me. At first, I really thought it was my problem and reflected daily. Turns out, he just purely wants to find someone to scold, to show off his authority as a boss. Now, I won’t spoil him. I retorted directly. “Mr. Sterling, dating is my private matter and hasn’t affected my work.” “I completed all my duties on time.” Colleague Linda next to me whispered in support, “Yes, Mr. Sterling, Sarah has always been serious and responsible, never made mistakes.” Sterling exploded on the spot. “Who do you think you are? Are you the boss or am I? Do you have a say when I criticize employees?” “Don’t think I don’t know, you two drink bubble tea and order takeout together every day, practically wearing the same pair of pants. Forming a clique, huh?” “If she makes a mistake and gets her salary deducted, should I deduct yours too?” Linda’s eyes reddened with grievance, but she dared not talk back to Sterling. Sterling scolded enough, then turned back to me. “What do you mean completed? Who are you fooling?” “Where is the Annual Gala plan I asked you to do last week?” “We agreed the first draft must be submitted before New Year’s Eve.” “Work not done, and you have the nerve to leave? Where is your shame?” Colleagues around were peeking to watch the drama. The boss wouldn’t let me go, so they dared not leave either, afraid the boss would scold them too. I was too lazy to argue, too lazy to turn on the computer that was already shut down. I took out my phone and opened Slack. Clicked on the chat with the boss. “Boss, the Annual Gala plan was sent to you via Slack file two days ago, Monday at 4:15 PM.” “At 4:23 PM, you replied with an ‘OK’ emoji.” “I haven’t received any further feedback from you.” “I assumed you had confirmed receipt.” The screen displayed it clearly. The boss’s face became even gloomier. “What confirmed receipt!” “Replying OK means I know, not that I finished reading and confirming!” Sterling spat as he spoke, getting more excited. “Also, if I didn’t give you feedback, why didn’t you remind me?” “Ah? Can’t you be more proactive in doing things?” “Where is your sense of responsibility for project follow-up? Sending a plan to me and considering it done?” “Is this your work attitude?” I’ve heard this pot-dumping rhetoric until my ears calloused. Forgetful himself, blames employees for not reminding. Missed seeing it himself, blames employees for not writing clearly. Working here for a few months, after being picked on a few times, I already had a response plan. I zoomed in on the chat history. “Mr. Sterling, look carefully at the chat history.” “When I sent the file to you, the note was very clear.” I read out the chat record. “Mr. Sterling, the first draft of the Annual Gala plan has been sent. Please confirm the plan ASAP.” “I booked a 30-minute meeting with you on Jan 4th at 10 AM to go over the final plan. Does that work?” Sterling panicked, slapping the table loudly. “You sent so many words, who has time to read them one by one!” “As HR, don’t you know my work habits? Important things must be said in person!” “Sending a Slack message counts as notification? You are slacking off!” Heh, here we go again. He is the boss, he is always right. I sneered in my heart, but my face remained calm. “Mr. Sterling, you forgot. The rule you personally set at the company meeting last month.” “You said, to clarify responsibilities, all communication and work reports must leave a trail on Slack to avoid disputes later.” “I was just strictly following your rules.” Sterling’s face turned completely black. “Good! Good sharp-tongued Sarah!” “Dare to talk back to me.” “Said so much, just want to leave work, right?” “I tell you, no way!” “This company is named Sterling, I am the boss.” He gritted his teeth and stared at me. “I officially notify you now, you are not allowed to leave!” “Meeting right now! Discuss the Annual Gala plan!” He scanned the office viciously. “And Linda, Zack… your entire department, no one leaves. Everyone comes to the meeting.” As soon as this was said, people in the office were stunned. Zack, who was named, tentatively spoke: “Mr. Sterling, I… my girlfriend is waiting for me downstairs for dinner, we agreed…” “Girlfriend?” Sterling sneered, “Can a girlfriend pay your salary? Can she pay your insurance? Can’t distinguish priorities!” He flung his hand fiercely, pointing at me again. “Blame your good colleague Sarah.” “It’s her smart-ass backtalk that dragged you all into overtime.” “Today, I’ll teach you a good lesson, so you don’t forget who holds the cards!” Several resentful looks immediately cast on me. Everyone still counted this debt on my head. I was about to say something, but Linda immediately held my arm. “Sarah, stop talking, forget it.” “The boss is angry. The more you resist, the more energized he gets. He really can make us stay all night!” “My child is alone at home, I…” “Just treat it as me begging you, endure it, okay?” “Let’s go, let’s go to the meeting.” But glancing at Linda’s pleading face, The fire in my heart faded a bit. This shitty job, this stupid boss, staying one more second is dirty. But in the few months I’ve been here, Linda really treated me like a sister and taught me a lot. I can’t let her be embarrassed because of me. Fine, give her face. I nodded at Linda and swallowed all the words back. Linda turned to squeeze out a smile at Sterling, bowing and scraping: “Boss, we’ll go to the conference room right away, right away.” “Sarah is young and ignorant, don’t hold it against her.” Sterling snorted, looking triumphant. “Go! To the conference room! Today I’ll teach you a lesson personally!” I rolled a huge eye in my heart. Laugh, laugh hard. Don’t know how long you can laugh. My text message has been sent. When Preston sees it, he’ll cry. This project was only possible because Preston’s grandfather agreed to cooperate with him seeing I work here. Otherwise, with Sterling’s small volume, he wouldn’t touch The Preston Group even in a hundred years. Chapter 2 In the conference room, Sterling sat at the head, starting his lecture. “Today, keeping everyone here is not to punish you, but to educate you!” “What is Wolf Culture? What is team spirit? Some of you just lack this spirit!” As he spoke, he glanced at me with the corner of his eye, the meaning self-evident. I lowered my eyelids, staring at the conference table, feeling annoyed. New Year’s Eve, anniversary… all ruined. What is Preston doing now? Is he waiting for my call? Just thinking, the phone on the table buzzed suddenly. The screen lit up, displaying: Preston. I quickly pressed the hang-up button, then put the phone in my pocket. But those two short vibrations were still exceptionally abrupt. Sterling’s long speech stopped abruptly. He scanned every face in the conference room and roared loudly. “Who?” “Whose phone was ringing just now?” Everyone’s eyes focused on me immediately. Zack sitting next to me even pointed his finger at me. “Boss, it’s Sarah’s phone.” I looked up, looking straight at Sterling. “It’s me.” “You again! Sarah!” Sterling slapped the table and stood up directly. “Good! You are really good!” “I’m here talking my heart out about the team, about the future, and you are flirting with your little boyfriend down there!” “Playing with your phone in a meeting, do you have any discipline in your eyes! Do you have me as a boss!” I frowned, explaining calmly, “I didn’t play with my phone, just a call, I already hung up.” “Hung up?” Sterling was furious, “You think you’re right?” “I see you are unrepentant!” “If I don’t show you some severity, you won’t know how many eyes Lord Ma has!” He pointed at me viciously. “I officially notify you now, according to company regulations, handling personal affairs during a meeting,” “Seriously affecting meeting order, fined $3,000! Deducted from your next month’s salary!” I twitched the corner of my mouth. “Mr. Sterling, I memorized the employee handbook when I joined. There is no rule saying answering a call in a meeting gets fined.” “Handbook?” Sterling sneered, tone disdainful, “What I say is the rule!” “I have the final say in this company!” He looked unhappy, frowning at everyone, “Everyone say, am I right to fine her?” “Is it people like her with no sense of collective honor who drag down our entire department’s progress?” Linda spoke carefully, “Mr. Sterling, please calm down.” “Sarah is still young, just graduated, doesn’t know better. This is the first time, how about… give her a chance?” “Her probation salary isn’t high, $3,000 isn’t a small amount…” Sterling glared, “She’s young? She doesn’t know better? She knew too well when she talked back to me?” “Linda I tell you, don’t mix mud here!” “It’s because of softies like you that she is so lawless!” Linda sat back awkwardly, daring not say another word. Zack was best at reading expressions. He spoke righteously, “No rules, no standards. I support Mr. Sterling’s decision.” “Sarah, it is indeed your fault this time.” Other colleagues immediately echoed, “Yeah, Sarah, just admit the fine quickly so we can finish the meeting and leave!” “We could have left at six, what time is it now? It’s all your fault!” “Who do you think you are? Talking back to the boss?” “Apologize to the boss quickly, stop being stubborn!” Looking at their expressions accusing me all at once, I suddenly found it very funny. These are my good colleagues. I usually treat them with snacks often. Once trouble hits, they push me out immediately. I straightened my back, “I won’t admit fines that shouldn’t be fined.” Sterling’s face collapsed, preparing to curse. My phone vibrated again. Sterling exploded immediately, “Sarah, is there no end? I order you, hand over the phone immediately.” I snorted coldly: “Impossible.” “The phone is my personal property. You have no right to confiscate it.” “Seems you still don’t understand the boss is the biggest in the company.” Sterling glanced at Zack coldly. Zack understood immediately, calling a few other male colleagues to surround me. Linda’s face turned pale, “Mr. Sterling, what are you doing! Talk nicely!” “Shut up!” Sterling pushed her away, “None of your business!” “One more word, and you resign and get out too!” Linda stumbled, pushed into the file cabinet by the wall. Other colleagues all lowered their heads, pretending to see nothing. My heart went cold. Indeed, just colleagues. Next second, several hands clamped my shoulders. “Let go!” I struggled, but the strength difference between men and women kept me pinned to the chair, unable to move. “Sarah, don’t refuse a toast only to drink a forfeit!” “Hand over the phone, it’s good for everyone!” I clutched the phone tightly, fingertips white. “Mr. Sterling, this is robbery, it’s illegal!” “Illegal?” Sterling raised his hand and slapped me. Left cheek burned with pain, heavy metallic taste in my mouth. “Go ask around, in Manhattan, who dares to touch me, Sebastian Sterling.” “Our Sterling family is protected by the Preston family.” “The richest Preston family, understand? Bitch.” Heh, he hit the future matriarch of the Preston family, and wants the Preston family to protect him? Simply dreaming! I smiled mockingly, “You will regret this!” “I never regret what I do!” Sterling lost patience, stepping forward personally to pry my fingers. His nails were long, digging hard into the back of my hand. My eyes reddened with pain. In the last second before the phone was snatched, I used all my strength, finger swiping the answer button. Sterling let out a sneer. “Heh, so what if you answered.” “Let your boyfriend hear how pathetic you are now!” Sterling pressed the speaker button, tone rampant, “Hello? Looking for Sarah?” The voice on the other end turned cold, “Who are you?” “Who am I?” Sterling laughed loudly, “I am her boss!” “I tell you, stop waiting. Your girlfriend Sarah talked back to her superior. I’m punishing her to stay in the company for overtime and deep reflection!” “Tonight, she goes nowhere!” Silence on the other end. Sterling became more smug, “Heard that? A grown man knowing only to circle around women, useless!” “I tell you, stop calling and disturbing our company meeting, or I’ll make you suffer consequences you can’t bear.” “Oh? Really?” An icy voice interrupted Sterling’s clamor. But this voice did not come from the phone. Instead, it came from the corridor nearby. Everyone’s eyes widened, looking at the conference room door. Only to see a tall and slender figure striding over. “I’d really like to see how you make me suffer consequences I can’t bear.” “Who the hell are you?” Sterling spat low, “Who let you in?” “Our company is holding an important meeting. Idlers get out!” The man glanced at Sterling lightly. “I’m here to pick up Sarah.” After he finished, his gaze fell on me. The colleagues grabbing me immediately let go. I threw myself into Preston’s arms immediately. “Preston, you finally came.” He looked at the red mark on my face and the bloody scratches on my hand, frowning with heartache. “Who did this.” Red-eyed, I pointed at Sterling, and Zack and the others. “Don’t worry, I will make them pay.” Preston patted my back gently, “Let’s go, I’ll take you to the hospital to treat the wounds first.” Saying that, he held my hand, turning to leave. Sterling laughed arrogantly. “Kid, you are Sarah’s boyfriend, right?” “I tell you, you can’t take her today!” “Sarah is my employee. When she can leave work depends on me!” “Now, immediately, get out! Don’t hinder our company’s internal discipline rectification!” Preston’s tone was three degrees colder than before. “I say it again, I’m taking her.” “Are you f*cking deaf!” Sterling rolled his eyes impatiently, “Who do you think you are? Dare to talk to me like this?” “Do you know who I am? The boss of Sterling Capital!” “Ask around this territory, who doesn’t give me some face.” Colleagues aside started whispering. “Done for, this young man is in trouble.” “Yeah, heard the Sterling family has good relations with major powers in the city.” “Especially the richest Preston family. I heard the boss’s driver say Sterling’s father even ate with Old Mr. Preston!” “Mr. Sterling has a bad temper, but his connections are really something.” “This young man is still too young, thinking he can walk sideways with a big mouth. Impulse is the devil.” Sterling became more smug, looking at Preston with disdain. “Heard that, brat? Didn’t ask who you are messing with before entering?” “Tell you, today you kicked an iron plate.” Iron plate? Just their Sterling family? A second-rate family at best. Being able to attend the Preston family dinner was only because I work at their company, And the Old Master wanted to give them a chance. Really think he’s somebody. I looked at Preston mischievously. “Preston, what to do? Their background is so hard, I’m a bit scared.” Preston spoke lightly, “Scared of what, if the sky falls, I’ll hold it.” Sterling revealed a mouthful of yellow teeth. “Kid, what do you hold it with? Relying on this face?” “You look handsome, but I must warn you,” “Society is not your home, not a place you can pretend just because you dress like a human!!” “No strength, no background, you are a fart!” He turned around sharply, pointing viciously at me. “Blame your brainless girlfriend for offending people she shouldn’t offend.” “Today your New Year’s Eve will be spent in my f*cking office!” He turned, raising his eyebrows triumphantly at everyone in the office. “See that? This is the result of not working hard!” “Not only do you have to work overtime, but your boyfriend also has to wait outside like a dog!” Zack immediately echoed fawningly, “Mr. Sterling is right! Work is heaven. Heaven is big, earth is big, but work is the biggest!” I gently pushed Preston away and looked at Sterling. “Mr. Sterling, I quit.” As soon as these words came out, Linda’s face turned pale, winking at me desperately. Sterling laughed holding his belly. “Quit? Sarah, is your brain really kicked by a donkey?” He stopped laughing, tapping at me with his finger, “Sure, hand in the resignation letter. According to labor law, 30 days notice.” “In these 30 days, you, Sarah, are still an employee of my Sterling Capital!” “If I tell you to work overtime, you work! If I tell you to work, you work!” “Want to leave? Fine, 30 days later, get out!” “But tonight, don’t even think about stepping out of this door!” Sterling really won’t cry until he sees the coffin, still so arrogant. I frowned, “Mr. Sterling, I’m just notifying you, I quit. I won’t listen to your orders anymore.” “As for deducting salary, deduct whatever you want, doesn’t matter.” “Tonight, I am leaving.” Sterling sneered, “You think the company is a place you come and go as you please?” “Zack, call security.” Preston spoke lightly. “I remember, The Preston Group recently has a $30 billion new energy project, planning deep cooperation with you.” Hearing “The Preston Group” and “$30 billion,” Sterling straightened his back even more. “Count yourself knowledgeable, kid!” “That’s right! That project is led by our Sterling family!” “The Preston family, understand? Our Sterling family is protected by the Prestons!” He thought Preston was scared, tone even more insufferable. Preston pulled a cold smile. “Oh, really?” “That’s just right.” He took out his phone, dialing his assistant directly. “Assistant Lee, notify down. All cooperation intentions between The Preston Group and Sterling Capital are terminated.” “Also, I want Sterling Capital to disappear from the city before dawn.”

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