The company’s Annual Gala was coming up, and every employee was required to perform. I’ve been a corporate slave for a whole year, and I really didn’t want to continue being treated like a circus monkey by the leadership. VP Johnson scolded me: “You ungrateful brat. This is a great opportunity to be seen by the C-suite. Since you don’t want to advance, enjoy being a grunt for the rest of your life!” So, he assigned me to cover shifts for other departments while everyone else rehearsed for the Gala. When a client came to sign a contract, I sent them away: “The company is busy rehearsing for the Gala. No contracts today!” When the IRS came to audit, I blocked them at the door: “The company is busy rehearsing for the Gala. We can’t host you!” Chapter 1 The Group executives were attending our Annual Gala. VP Johnson issued a command: “Everyone’s priority for the end of the year is the Gala rehearsal. Everything else can wait.” Besides that, everyone had to participate in a performance to ensure the executives saw a “united and energetic” team. When they were collecting program ideas, I said I had no talent. VP Johnson came to persuade me personally: “Ben, this is a golden opportunity to be seen by the higher-ups. The Group leaders are coming. This is one of the few chances you’ll have to perform directly in front of them.” “VP Johnson, I don’t want to be seen by the higher-ups, nor do I want to perform. I’m just an ordinary employee. It’s useless even if they see me.” VP Johnson probably didn’t expect me to be so unambitious. His “carrot on a stick” tactic failed, and he paused for a moment. “No, your mindset is dangerous! You’re young, don’t you want to climb the ladder?” “No!” I answered decisively. Out of ten people in our department, eight were nepo babies or friends of the boss. Even if I stripped on stage, the promotion and raise wouldn’t be mine. VP Johnson shook his head in anger: “You’re hopeless! You don’t cherish such a good opportunity. You deserve to be a worker for life!” With that, he stormed off. Psycho. I’m here to work, not to sell my dignity. Department Manager Jessica saw that I pissed off VP Johnson and came to talk to me: “Ben, there’s no need to offend VP Johnson. He’s counting on this Gala to go well so the Group leaders will be happy and promote him to HQ.” “So we have to act like monkeys to pave his way?” Jessica was choked by my retort. She paused and continued: “I… I’m doing this for your own good. After all, you still have to work here. There’s no need to offend him.” Psycho. When my mom says “it’s for your own good,” I suspect she’s gaslighting me. Let alone you, a corporate lackey? Hilarious! “If you really want what’s best for me, don’t make me participate in this bullshit Gala.” “Watch your language! I really mean well. Why are you so ungrateful?” Jessica’s tone hardened, which directly caused the anger I had suppressed for a year to explode. “You want me to be blunt? Ten people in our department, eight are useless connections. All the work is dumped on me. I’ve worked my ass off for a year, just wanting a break, and you want me to work overtime for a rehearsal? For what?” Jessica was shocked by my directness, looking at me like I was a madman. “Connections? What nonsense. Our company speaks with results. I became a manager based on ability. Factors outside of ability are zero!” “Yeah, your brother-in-law said the same thing in the meeting!” Her brother-in-law is VP Johnson. Jessica’s face turned purple instantly. Chapter 2 The next morning, I saw Jessica leading the whole department singing “We Are the World,” complete with choreography. I wasn’t sure what they were thankful for. Thankful that the company fed this group of parasites? Logically, that makes sense. I’m just a regular guy. I just want to work quietly and get paid what I deserve. Why do they keep forcing these “values” on me? Those executives should be the ones singing and dancing. After all, their million-dollar salaries are earned by the blood and sweat of us grunts. They should be more grateful. Besides, if you’re going to paint a picture, make it realistic. Don’t just draw a pile of shit and feed it to us: Singing and dancing for leaders, amusing them, and we’ll have a future? Then just hire a professional troupe. If that worked, Enron wouldn’t have collapsed. If they like thanking the leaders, let them. Whether they thank me or not, I do all the work anyway. Sometimes I really feel they are thanking the wrong gods. I used to think about keeping my head down and enduring it. But they crossed the line more and more: The nepo babies slacked off, I worked like a dog; year-end awards went to them; raises, I was always at the bottom. No fame, no fortune. Why should I swallow this anger? I’ve made up my mind. I won’t spoil anyone anymore. If anyone dares to gaslight me, I’ll diss them to their face. Zero tolerance! Since you don’t want dignity, I’ll help you lose it. I’ve had enough of this life. Give me a severance package and let me go. I’m a slave during the year, a monkey during holidays, and a pig to be slaughtered when profits are down. But Jessica didn’t want to let me off that easily. As soon as I got to my desk, I saw the Year-End Performance Review was out. I clicked it. My rating was a C. According to company policy, a C rating means no year-end bonus and immediate probation. Which means I’m on the chopping block, ready to be fired at any time. These bastards. Not only are they ungrateful, they bite the hand that feeds them. I was furious. I couldn’t take it anymore and kicked open the conference room door. Just as they were singing “We make a brighter day,” eyes misty with emotion, I appeared before them like a vengeful spirit. Right. After doing their work for years, I deserve that lyric too. Chapter 3 Jessica saw I was hostile and tried to strike first: “What are you doing? Can’t you see we’re rehearsing?” Rehearse my ass. My bonus is gone, do I care about your bullshit Gala? “Screw the rehearsal! I’m here to ask Manager Jessica why my rating is a C?” Jessica seemed to have expected me. She walked up to me: “I thought something huge happened. It’s just this? Go out and wait, I’ll explain after rehearsal.” I don’t know what’s in her brain. A corporate slave losing his bonus is “not a big deal”? For a worker, this is the sky falling! No, it’s more urgent than the sky falling! “I can’t wait a second. I worked hard all year, why is my bonus gone? If you can’t explain it, stop your gratitude act!” Even at this point, Jessica didn’t seem to realize I was out for blood. “Ben, have some perspective, okay? Do you know how important the Gala is to the company? I’ll explain your little issue later. Why the rush? Honestly!” I learned in my first year: when a company tells you to have “perspective,” the subtext is: Attention, I’m about to gaslight you! “Perspective? Are you brain-dead? My bonus is gone and you tell me to have perspective?” Seeing the tension rising, everyone gathered to watch. Jessica didn’t care and continued her sarcasm: “Don’t you know your own performance? The C rating went through the review process and was approved by company leadership!” “Come on. Everyone in our department is here today. Who did more work than me? Who had better numbers? I did most of the work for ten people. I’d love to know how your review process works!” “Go check the HR file yourself! It’s very clear!” “I can’t understand it. You tell me right now, in front of everyone, where did I fail?” “Do you even need to ask? It’s so obvious.” Seeing her so confident, I was a bit confused until she opened my review form on her phone. Reading it, I was trembling with rage, while she looked triumphant. Chapter 4 “Our assessment mechanism changed this year. Both quantitative KPIs and qualitative competencies are evaluated. The final result is the lower of the two scores.” I looked at the big C under “Core Competencies” and exploded. KPIs are quantitative, objective data. She couldn’t fudge that, so my KPI score was an A. But this so-called “Competency” is entirely subjective, depending on the manager’s mood. Even if subjective, I didn’t expect such a ridiculous result. In all my years here, I’ve never seen a C rating. “Jessica, tell me now. What is wrong with my competency? Am I incompetent? Why is my KPI an A but competency a C? Isn’t that contradictory?” Seeing I was serious, Jessica said slowly: “Other competencies are fine, but your team spirit is lacking…” “Team spirit lacking? What do you mean?” “What do I mean? You have the nerve to ask? Why aren’t you participating in the Annual Gala? This one thing proves you lack the big picture and team spirit!” My head buzzed. So I lost my bonus because I didn’t dance at the party? I felt my blood pressure spiking: “Jessica, hand on your heart, did I achieve most of the department’s results this year? Did I do the most overtime? You give me a C for not going to a party?” “I know, but attitude matters. No collaboration spirit, disobeying company arrangements, not participating in team efforts. Even with good results, that’s not competence, right?” I laughed in anger: “Just because I skipped the Gala, you deny my bonus? So you didn’t see my hard work all year?” “Why haven’t you realized your problem? VP Johnson emphasized the importance of the Gala. The whole company is focused on this. You dropped the ball on such a major event, and you’re not convinced by a C?” “I am not convinced. Why?!”

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While waiting for the doctor, I scrolled through a local Reddit thread. [What’s the most thrilling thing you’ve ever done?] Among a sea of wholesome replies, a post bragging about being a mistress shot to the top. “Definitely training a woman-hater into my personal simp!” “There was this rich heiress who sponsored my college tuition but actually looked down on me. So after graduation, I joined her husband’s company and hooked him.” “The funniest part? Once, while we were hooking up, she came home early.” “I left through the back door and ‘forgot’ to close the gate. Her daughter ran out to chase a ball and got hit by a car. Dead.” “That stupid woman still thinks it was her fault. Karma.” Three minutes ago, her latest reply appeared. “Admit it, you guys are just jealous my man is rich, hot, and great in bed!” “That idiot wife is at therapy again.” “Her husband says her crying face annoys him. He’s celebrating my birthday right now.” Below was a photo of cutting a cake. I recognized the man’s cufflink instantly. It was my husband. The “idiot” who invited the wolf into her home… Was me. Chapter 1 Facing the angry questions from netizens, the OP posted a photo wearing a jade bracelet. “I don’t care about a marriage certificate. He only loves me.” That jade bracelet was the finale item Lucas Vance bought for $3 million at an auction recently. Media praised him as a devoted husband. Buying gifts for his wife even on business trips. I smiled bitterly. Since Lily died in that car accident, Lucas hated me. He dragged me to her small memorial shrine countless times, eyes red with rage: “Sarah, why didn’t you close the back gate?!” “You knew the road behind the fence is busy! You killed our daughter!” I bit my lip until it bled, silently accepting his blame. Because I hated myself too. Grief buried my memory. I couldn’t remember if I closed the gate or not. And the broken surveillance camera couldn’t tell the truth—because I forgot to call maintenance. Lucas made me kneel before Lily’s shrine to repent every day. But in this torture, I found a little relief. Later, I knelt all day, refusing food and water. My body collapsed. Soon, I was diagnosed with stomach cancer. After Lily died, I wanted to join her. But facing death, I hesitated. Lucas cursed me to die with our daughter. But when I slashed my wrist in a breakdown, he pressed the wound tight, begging me to live. I knew his love, and understood his hate. So I hid the cancer. I didn’t want him to feel guilty for a dying woman. I used therapy as an excuse for my chemo appointments. I thought, if I survive, I’ll fix our marriage. If not, I’ll divorce him so he won’t have to suffer another loss. But my retreat didn’t win his heart back. Last week, our 8th anniversary. I still had hope. But the cancer pain hit. I hid in the bathroom, using the shower noise to mask my groans. When the pain passed, it was morning. The bed was cold. Since Lily died, Lucas never slept in our room. I never suspected cheating. I thought it was just grief. Now I realize how laughably confident I was. Tears fell uncontrollably. “Mrs. Vance? Are you okay?” The nurse asked worriedly. I wiped my tears. “Cancel all future chemo. Including today’s.” “But it’s late-stage. Without treatment, you might not last a month.” I smiled bitterly. “No more.” One month is enough. I waited in the living room until 3 AM for Lucas. I used to think he was working late to numb his pain. In reality, he was sleeping in another woman’s bed. Seeing me, Lucas frowned. “What are you doing here? Killing our daughter wasn’t enough? Trying to scare me to death now?” Words like daggers. I heard them too many times. Before, I felt guilty. But I didn’t kill Lily. Why should I pay for someone else’s sin? “I didn’t kill Lily…” Before I finished, Lucas choked me. “You have the nerve to mention her?” “If you closed the gate, she wouldn’t have been hit!” Suffocation hit me like a tide. I pushed him away and rasped: “Lucas, I found out! Lily’s death is related to Lyla!” His pupils shrank. He squeezed my neck harder. “What nonsense are you spouting? You think everyone is as evil as you?” Seeing him protect Lyla, the last spark of hope died. My stomach cramped violently. Cold sweat dripped. Just as I thought I would die, Lucas’s finger brushed my face. He pulled back like he was burned. “Sarah, don’t think dying is an escape!” “You will stay by my side and atone for life!” His phone buzzed on the coffee table. Lyla. He picked it up and walked away. I heard his gentle voice: “I hate her. Why would I touch her?” “Glad you like the bracelet. I’ll take you to Paris for New Year’s.” I blinked back tears. Soon, my phone rang. Lyla. “Sarah, did Lucas fight with you again?” “Don’t blame him. You did kill his daughter.” “Oops, sorry. Don’t take it to heart.” No guilt in her sweet apology. She changed the topic. She was pregnant. About a month after Lily died. I suffered in hell for 200 days. Lucas moved on in 30. “Sarah, what if he doesn’t like this baby?” I used to comfort her. Now I knew she was mocking me. Seeing my silence, she hung up. Then she posted an Instagram Story. Interlocked fingers. Caption: Someone promised to give me a home. Hope it comes soon. Lucas liked it instantly. Comment: Won’t be long. I sat until dawn. Then I revised the divorce papers. Assets: All to Lucas. Changed to All to Sarah. I hired private investigators. Lucas noticed my change. After another late night, he exploded. “Sarah, do you know?” I looked up. I thought he knew Lyla was the murderer. But he said coldly: “I warn you. Don’t target Lyla.” “I won’t let you hurt my second child!” “What about Lily?” I asked. He froze. Lyla called. “Lucas! Someone is following me!” “I’m scared! Save me!” Screams followed. Lucas dragged me to the car. He ran red lights, just like when I went into premature labor with Lily. Now, he was saving another woman. When we arrived, Lyla in pajamas rushed into his arms. “You’re finally here!” Lucas wiped her tears and turned to the handcuffed men. “Who sent you?” The leader looked at me, then looked away guiltily. Lucas kicked him. “Speak! Or you’re done in this city!” “It… it was your wife. She paid us to make Miss Lyla miscarry!” Lucas turned to me, eyes full of murder. “Sarah! I knew it!” He loomed over me. “Lily’s death didn’t teach you a lesson?” “How dare you hire thugs to scare a pregnant woman!” I endured the stomach pain. “I never wanted to hurt her baby.” Lucas grabbed my phone. He shoved a transfer record in my face. “Explain this!” “If I say I don’t know, will you believe me?” He smashed my phone. “Why should I believe you!” Lyla tugged his sleeve. “Forget it. Sarah didn’t mean it.” “I’m willing to let her raise the baby.” “But I’m afraid…” She stopped, biting her lip. Everyone knew what she meant. She was afraid I’d kill her baby like I “killed” mine. Lucas gripped my jaw. “Admit it!” “I won’t admit what I didn’t do.” He threw me to the ground. “Reflect in the basement!” “Don’t come out until you admit your mistake!” Chapter 2 I was thrown into the basement like trash. Untreated wounds festered. High fever. Delirium. Three days without food. Stomach cancer tortured my insides. I hallucinated Lily. In her blood-stained princess dress, crying for Mom outside the fence. I reached out, grasping only air. The door opened. Lyla walked in, glowing with pregnancy. “Look at you. Pathetic.” “You deserve this. Always showing off your happiness.” “As for your daughter… bad luck. She died to make room for my son.” Rage exploded. I slapped her pitiful face. Lucas rushed in. Lyla covered her face, weeping. “I just wanted to persuade her…” “She said my baby will die too…” Lucas glared at me. “Sarah, you are hopeless!” He ordered a whip. “Hit her as many times as she hit you!” Lyla grinned.

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On Valentine’s Day, Lucas bought two gifts again. One for me, one for his sister, Luna. The siblings were famously close. We always spent Valentine’s Day as a trio. The passenger seat belonged to Luna. They shared the same straw for their milkshakes. I cried, I fought, but every time Lucas would say: “Luna is divorced. Raising a kid alone is hard. As her brother, I should take care of her.” “As a sister-in-law, you shouldn’t be so petty with her!” Later, Luna got sick and needed a kidney transplant. I was the only match in the family. “Wifey, please save my sister. Living with one kidney won’t affect your life. I’ll take good care of you forever.” Lucas knelt in front of everyone, begging me. “Okay,” I smiled and agreed. But he regretted it. Chapter 1 “Happy Valentine’s Day, honey.” When Lucas came home from work, he was holding two bouquets and two gift bags. “Change your clothes quickly. We’re picking up Luna. I booked the restaurant.” He went to the bathroom, leaving his phone and gifts together. Ping. [Brother, is it the restaurant I like? If not, I’m not going!] A message from Luna. “Why are you still standing there? Luna will be waiting.” Seeing I hadn’t changed, Lucas looked displeased. “You guys go. I don’t want to go.” This was the third Valentine’s Day we spent as a trio. I’d had enough. “Look at you, jealous of my sister again?” “She’s my biological sister. What is there to be jealous of? Be good, change your clothes. Don’t make Luna wait.” He pushed me into the bedroom. “I don’t feel well!” I shook him off. Lucas touched my forehead, then his own. “Hmm, a bit hot. Then rest at home. I’ll bring you something back.” He picked up the flowers and gift bags as he spoke. The moment the door closed, he Venmoed me $5,200. Note: Wifey, I love you. Chapter 2 Lucas and I were college sweethearts. We dated for two years after graduation before getting married. Our married life was stable. We didn’t live with in-laws. It was sweet. I thought life would go on like this. I was even preparing for pregnancy. Until Lucas’s sister, Luna, appeared. Before this, I only heard about Luna from my husband. I knew she dropped out of college to marry abroad. I knew Lucas loved his sister. They video-called a dozen times a day, saying good morning and good night. “Brother, what did you have for breakfast? What do you want for lunch?” “Come to my place for dinner tonight. Leo misses you, he asks for Uncle every day.” With Luna around, the passenger seat was always hers. I sat in the back. “Luna gets carsick. She can’t sit in the back.” At first, Lucas would explain apologetically. Later, it became natural. Even when Luna wasn’t there, he felt weird if I sat in the passenger seat. When we went shopping, Luna always tagged along. “Brother, try mine, it’s so good. Let me taste yours!” They shared drinks naturally. I stood aside like an outsider. “Luna is divorced. It’s not easy raising a kid. I don’t want her to feel her brother abandoned her after getting married.” “After all, we are the couple. You understand me, right?” Occasionally, noticing my unhappiness, Lucas would coax me. At first, I sympathized with Luna. As a woman, being a single mom is hard. But over time, I realized I was a fool. But even fools wake up one day. Once awake, they won’t be foolish again. Chapter 3 Lucas didn’t come home that night. He called me the next evening. “Wifey, feeling better? Luna felt bad about yesterday.” “She bought a lot of groceries to cook for you. Come over quickly.” “No need. I have no appetite.” My appetite really hadn’t been good lately. Lucas got anxious. “Don’t be like this. Luna went to the supermarket early in the morning. It’s rude if you don’t come.” “And Mom and Dad are here too. They want you to come. You can’t ignore them, right?” I was raised by my grandfather. My parents died early. My in-laws treated me well. They paid for Grandpa’s medical bills and gave him a decent funeral. I couldn’t refuse them. “Sister-in-law, why are you so late? I’m almost done cooking!” Seeing me, Luna pouted, unhappy. Lucas teased, “Didn’t you say you wanted to cook for your sister-in-law? Why the temper now?” “Brother, you always side with your wife.” Luna was even more unhappy. I ignored their sibling act, greeted my in-laws, and sat down to eat. After dinner, while cleaning up, my mother-in-law touched my hand and joked: “Jill’s hands are so white and tender. Youth is good. Unlike our tree bark skin.” “Hmph~ White and tender now. Wait till she has a kid and raises it for two years. See if she’s still tender.” Luna extended her right hand to Lucas. “Brother, is my hand tender?” “Your sister-in-law’s is more tender.” Lucas laughed. Luna got anxious. She grabbed Lucas’s hand, interlacing their fingers: “Whose is tender? Mine or hers?” Lucas was amused by her. He nodded repeatedly. “Yours. Yours.” My in-laws were used to it. “They’ve been like this since childhood. Always playing.” I smiled silently and took the dishes to the kitchen. “Brother, you’re biased. You sent her $5,200, but only sent me $520.” When I came out, Luna was crying. Seeing me, she cried harder. “Why? Why does she get ten times more? I’m your biological sister. We are the closest family.” I asked my mother-in-law and found out Luna saw the notification of the returned transfer on Lucas’s phone. “Yesterday was Valentine’s Day, not Family Day. Legally and morally, your brother and I are the closest.” I looked at Luna and said. “What do you mean?” “Are you saying I’m extra? Yes, I am extra. I shouldn’t have come back with my child. I’m leaving now!” She rushed into the bedroom, picked up the sleeping child, and ran out. Lucas hugged her tight. “This is your home. Forever your home. Where are you going?” “Jill! Apologize! Apologize to my sister now!” Lucas glared at me, neck stiff. Chapter 4 “Did I say anything wrong? Lucas, I am your wife. Do you think we look like a couple now?” “Or do you look more like a couple with her?” I pointed at Luna. I wanted to ask this for a long time. Might as well say it all. “Jill, you’re overthinking. Luna, stop it! Look how angry your sister-in-law is.” My mother-in-law tried to persuade me. “Fine. Looks like I’m the outsider. Even my own mother sides with the outsider. I’m leaving!” “I should just die with Leo. We don’t deserve to live.” Luna twisted in Lucas’s arms, hysterical, like a madwoman. The child woke up, scared pale by her movements and screaming, too terrified to cry. “Will you apologize?” Lucas suddenly let go of his sister, walking towards me with a dark face. “Dream on!” Slap! Before I could finish, his slap landed heavily. I was stunned, staring at him blankly. My in-laws took Luna into the room, and my father-in-law pulled Lucas’s ear: “Are you crazy? Apologize to Jill!” “I… I…” Lucas looked at his hand, panicked. Tears rushed out. I ran out the door. Without a phone or money, I walked aimlessly on the street. Lucas never hit me. This was the first time, for his sister. Last Valentine’s Day, he scolded me for the first time, also for his sister. I didn’t know how long I walked. The streets emptied. I got colder. Inside and out. “Wifey! Where did you go? Do you know I’m going crazy looking for you!” At dawn, Lucas and two police officers found me on the roadside. “Wifey, I was wrong. I shouldn’t have hit you. I was too impulsive!” “I deserve to die. I’ll hit myself. Wifey, forgive me, okay?” Lucas slapped himself all the way home. He even grabbed my hand to hit him. I didn’t speak. Let him take me home. [Okay, seeing your sincerity, I forgive you.] While Lucas showered, his phone lit up again. I unlocked it and saw his transfer to Luna. $13,142.10. Note: Love you for a lifetime! Time: 3:30 AM. When I was wandering the streets.

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On the eve of our engagement, everyone was betting on when Julian Vance would tire of me. After all, he and his childhood sweetheart, Serena, were deeply in love. I was just a decoration he brought home under pressure. Even my wedding dress and diamond ring were her leftovers. The day Serena went abroad in a fit of rage… Julian acted nonchalant on the surface, but secretly squeezed my hand until it left red marks. He mocked me: “Satisfied? I never knew you were so manipulative.” I wasn’t satisfied. So when Mrs. Vance asked again if Julian would marry me, I spoke up first. “Let’s forget it.” Chapter 1 One sentence shocked the entire room. Julian took a deep breath, then glared at me coldly: “Audrey, stop making a scene.” At twenty-four, Julian Vance grew up in piles of gold. Although he hadn’t fully taken over the family power, his aura was already formidable. I suppressed the urge to give in and said word by word: “We are not a match. Before things go too far, let’s just forget it.” Mrs. Vance sighed with difficulty, but her face showed undeniable relief: “You young people, always so impulsive!” Mrs. Vance immediately got up to contact the staff to cancel the engagement gala. Julian tapped his fingers on the table, rhythmically, his tone cold and tough, as if negotiating with a rival. “Audrey, don’t be ungrateful.” I chuckled softly: “It’s me who doesn’t know my place.” When you hit a dead end, you have to turn back. It’s called cutting your losses. Chapter 2 Julian stood up and left, leaving only a gust of wind. I didn’t beg him to stay like before. Instead, I picked up my teacup and blew on the tea leaves gently, like a true lady. After doing all this, I couldn’t help but laugh. Who would have thought that ten years ago, in this very estate… Fourteen-year-old Julian found me fleeing for my life and swore to protect me. I was born into a poor, broken family. My biological father was a loser. He got bullied outside during the day and came home to vent his anger on his wife. Mom was a traditional woman. Even beaten black and blue, she would wipe her tears and cook. She always thought her husband would change. But when she had a difficult birth, he stole her only life-saving money. He said he could win it back, he could get rich. Then, ignoring his wife fainting from pain, he went to the gambling table without hesitation. I was twelve then. Mom was lying on a hospital bed in the hallway, blood pooling on the floor. I searched all my pockets and found only six dollars and ten cents. Doctors and nurses looked sympathetic but helpless. Julian broke into my world at my most helpless moment. He had just finished drag racing with his friends. A huge bruise on his eye corner, grinning in pain, yet comforting me: “Don’t cry, little sister. I’m here.” He used money to pave a way for Mom and my sister to survive. He gave Mom a job, saving us from suffering. When he learned I couldn’t afford tuition, he arranged for me to be in his class. Sometimes love comes that simply. Julian was handsome and had excellent grades. Many girls liked him, but he ignored them all, only letting me bring him water and lunch. I was embarrassed, but secretly delighted. I thought I was different. But against Serena, I always lost. In senior year, my recommendation spot for an Ivy League school was given to Serena by Julian. I was sad, but living under someone else’s roof, I couldn’t say anything. Serena wasn’t satisfied. She kicked over my desk: “Stop acting like a victim! A lowlife whose tuition is paid by Julian… I’m doing you a favor by taking your spot!” Even a worm will turn. I gave up the spot, and it went to the next student in line. Serena got nothing. She cried and refused to go to school. Julian didn’t say anything. He just used his connections to get another spot. And told me not to bully Serena anymore. I tried to explain to Julian that Serena started it, I just fought back a little. He looked at me deeply, thinking he saw through my petty thoughts. “She’s just straightforward. She didn’t say anything wrong.” “Did you have to be so harsh?” I froze. The fact I deliberately ignored was finally torn open nakedly. When others mocked my poverty, Julian’s silence wasn’t denial. He just disdained to speak. Not because he thought they were wrong. Chapter 3 In college, the Su family business collapsed. Serena’s father was driven to suicide by creditors, and her mother remarried. Julian did everything to protect her, even kneeling before Mr. Vance to ask to marry her. Mr. Vance was firm: “Are you crazy? Marrying the daughter of a fraudster?” Julian was always rebellious. He didn’t waste words. He just announced to everyone that he was getting engaged to me. I was a bit happy, but mostly sad. I had my pride too. If you don’t love me, I’ll leave. I didn’t want to be his second choice. But a child lacking love is always humbler. A glimmer of hope rose in my heart. What if? What if I’m obedient, work harder, will he see me? But in the year of graduation, my grad school spot was snatched again. Serena carried an Hermes bag, the pink diamond on her hand shining brightly. Her family’s misfortune didn’t affect her at all. She was still the pampered rose. “Audrey, you have to understand,” she held her head high, “You will never, ever win against me.” My mind went blank for a moment. When reason returned, Serena was covering her face, sobbing in Julian’s arms. Clear tears rolled down her cheeks. She cried pitifully: “If hitting me makes Audrey happy, I’m willing.” Julian threw a huge tantrum, threatening to stop supporting me. But I didn’t back down. You can have the man, but not my future. I collected evidence of Serena cheating on finals, but found everything changed. Roommates who were close to me started whispering behind my back. Walking on campus, malicious stares stabbed me. I received weird texts, creepy calls at midnight. Men panting heavily, asking how much for a night. I broke down. After seeking official help, I found the culprit. Of course, it was Serena. May in Boston, the temperature hit 95°F. Rain poured down continuously, humid and sticky. But I felt like a bucket of ice water was poured on me, teeth chattering. Julian hugged me, comforting me like when we were young: “Don’t cry, I’m here.” I walked into the observation room, light-headed. Serena sat on a chair, trembling slightly, crying pitifully. As if she was the victim. I heard the counselor talking to Julian outside. The counselor thanked Julian for dropping the case and promised it wouldn’t affect Serena’s record. Serena was uncuffed in front of me, throwing herself into Julian’s arms like a bird. She complained in a baby voice that Julian came late, spoiled and arrogant. She looked at me, covering her mouth to hide a smirk. I refused to settle. But all efforts were like throwing eggs at a rock. The cloud drive with evidence of Serena’s crimes mysteriously disappeared. I stood there, unable to even cry. Julian sat in front of the computer, speaking lightly. “Serena has learned her lesson. You need to know when to stop.” Chapter 4 The rumors on the forum were deleted. The school issued a statement saying it was false information posted by unknown persons. No one dared to say who the unknown person was. Serena received no punishment. She continued to use Julian’s secondary card to buy luxury goods everywhere, posting peaceful life updates on Instagram from abroad. Only I was trapped. All the gazes, whispers, whether kind or malicious. Made me feel like I had thorns on my back. Nights became long and unbearable. I relied on pills to close my eyes slightly at dawn. Maybe to appease me, Julian started planning the engagement party with great fanfare. Custom-made wedding dress, ten-carat diamond ring. He gave everything he could. I might have really gone crazy. Desperately trying to hold onto Julian, trying to prove something. On the eve of the engagement, I suddenly woke up from a dream. The spot next to me had been cold for a long time. The phone on the balcony was glowing with a faint white light. Julian had never been so patient with me. “Come back soon. The dress and ring are custom-made for you, isn’t that enough to cool your anger?” His eyes were tender. “Be good. I’m worried about you being alone.” So that was it. No wonder the sales assistant had a weird smile. No wonder the dress was inches too big, the ring loose on my finger. Everything had a trace. I covered my mouth tightly, daring not to make a sound while crying. When my tears were almost dry, Julian returned to the bedroom. Seeing me awake, he kissed the corner of my lips lightly: “We’re getting engaged soon. Are you excited?” I stared blankly. Julian didn’t wait for my reply and lay down. After a while, a tired sigh came from behind. Julian gripped my hand tightly, pinching red marks onto my skin. He mocked: “Serena was driven away by you. Are you still not satisfied?” “I never knew you were so manipulative.” Am I excited? Am I satisfied? What about you, Julian? Are you excited? When you lie next to me, are you thinking about our future? Or reminiscing about your tragic love with Serena? The cold came fierce and fast. I swallowed a few pills dry, thoughts racing. In my dream, Julian was so gentle. But once Serena appeared, he changed his face. Gentle Julian knelt on one knee, holding the ill-fitting diamond ring. He said, Audrey, will you marry me? I cried hysterically in the dream. I said, I don’t. I don’t want to be a laughable footnote in your love story. The bitterness of the pills rose up belatedly. Like today’s bitter tea, flowing into my limbs.

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After getting back together, I started believing every word Julian Vance said. “Bianca is bound to a ‘Conquer System’. She has to complete ’99 Couple Things’ with me to unbind.” “Only the last 5 tasks left. Once done, I will cut ties with her.” “She is my mentor’s only daughter. I can’t watch her die.” I stared at the TV show, not looking up: “Mmhmm. Life is at stake. You should do it.” Julian sighed in relief. “Jolie, you’ve become obedient.” Of course, I didn’t dare disobey. Last time we broke up, my body failed rapidly. The long-lost System reappeared: “Host, you chose to stay in this world for Julian. Once completely separated, you will die soon and never return home.” “To go home, the portal is by Julian’s side.” So when Julian begged me to get back together with red eyes… I put away all my thorns and resentment. And nodded immediately. Chapter 1 One month after reconciling. The portal home didn’t appear. The System went silent. Luckily, my body recovered. I no longer looked like a dying person. Ring ring ring… Julian froze. “It’s Bianca…” I gave him an understanding smile. “I know. She has the System. It’s a special situation.” “Answer it.” As if proving something to me, Julian put it on speaker. Bianca’s sticky-sweet voice oozed out. “Julian, the System just released the 95th task—” “We need to get matching tattoos before midnight tonight.” Julian blurted out: “Matching tattoos? Didn’t we already get them ten years ag—” He stopped mid-sentence. The air became light, so light I could hear the host laughing on TV. Julian turned to look at me, eyes guarded. He was waiting. Waiting for me to scream and question him hysterically like before. But I just kept staring at the TV. Didn’t even blink. Chapter 2 On the phone, Bianca stammered: “But the System says… it has to be on an intimate spot…” “I know you just got back with Jolie.” “She… has nothing but love in her brain. She won’t care if you are saving my life. She only knows how to make a scene.” “Forget it. I don’t want to make things hard for you.” Bianca sounded more and more aggrieved, ending with a sob: “Just let the System erase me.” Julian’s face darkened. His voice turned cold: “Stop talking nonsense! I won’t let anything happen to you!” He hung up, grabbed his jacket, and rushed out. I stood up too. He paused, looking back, frowning: “Jolie, what now?” “She just wants to live—” His words got stuck. Because I just took his car keys from the hook. And handed them to him. Julian froze. Like he was meeting me for the first time. “You used to… react strongly whenever tattoos were mentioned.” “What’s wrong today?” “Never again,” I said. He stared at me for a long time, then scoffed. “New tactic?” “Playing the ‘heartbroken and dead inside’ card?” I sighed wearily, wanting to explain. But he snatched the keys and slammed the door. Chapter 3 The living room returned to silence. I curled up on the sofa. And fell asleep. Dusty memories surged in my dream. I didn’t belong to this world. After an accident, I opened my eyes, and the System brought me here. Leaving only two sentences: [Conquer Julian Vance within three months and marry him.] [Otherwise, you will die completely.] Then, the System vanished. Julian back then was nothing like now. Family bankrupt. Massive debt. He hid in a dark rental apartment, surrounded by empty bottles, like a dying beast. I approached him bravely. Cleaning up the mess, cooking hangover soup clumsily, listening quietly when he rambled drunk. I didn’t know big philosophies. I could only tell him over and over. It will get better. Everything will be fine. The three-month deadline was approaching. But his eyes were still numb and empty, like looking through fog. I didn’t want to die. On the last day, I broke down. Crying, I told him the truth— I am a Conqueror. I will die if I don’t marry him. I begged him to marry me. I was ready for him to call me crazy. But he looked at me, tear-stained and pathetic, was silent for a long time, then rasped one word: “Okay.” Chapter 4 We got the certificate just like that. Strangely. After marriage. Julian actually started getting better. He quit drinking. Reconnected with the world. Looking for opportunities, negotiating deals. During the hardest years of his startup, we suffered a lot, but leaning on each other, we built a warm home in this strange world. Three years later, the System reappeared. Asking if I wanted to go home. That day, Julian closed a huge deal. He bought me a 3-carat pink diamond ring and booked the restaurant I always wanted. Looking at the light in his eyes, I realized I had fallen in love with him long ago. I didn’t want to leave. The second month after I rejected the System. Bianca returned to the country. Chapter 5 The first time I met Bianca. Julian and I almost divorced. That day, Julian took me to a private party to introduce me to his friends. Bianca was there. She wore a crop top. On her slender waist, there was a small symbol tattoo. That symbol. I knew it to my bones. Because it was branded on me too. Same spot. And. On Julian. One year after marriage, Julian and I slept together for the first time. That was when I saw it. On his left hip, a small but designed symbol. I asked what it was. He said: “It’s from an ancient tribe. It means willing to protect the loved one with life.” Back then, he cupped my face seriously: “You are the only girlfriend in my life.” “The only wife.” “I will protect you with everything.” I naturally thought. This tattoo was for me. Later, I secretly went to a tattoo shop, endured the pain, and got the same pattern on the same spot. When Julian saw it, he froze. No surprise or emotion I expected. He just looked at me with extremely complex eyes, silent for a long time. Finally, he said nothing, just hugged me hard, almost hurting me, voice hoarse. “…Silly girl.” I thought he was touched. Until I saw Bianca. I realized. I was just a clown, indulging in wishful thinking. Chapter 6 I booked laser removal that day. And proposed divorce. Julian stopped me like a madman. Eyes red, explaining incoherently. He and Bianca were childhood sweethearts. Ambiguous for years, just missing a label. Until the eve he planned to confess, his identity was revealed— He was the fake son switched at birth. Overnight. He lost everything. “Bianca flew abroad the next day and married a rich man there.” Julian gripped my hand, shaking: “When I was at my lowest, dirtiest, wanting to die, YOU were with me. How could I still feel anything for her?” “Don’t sentence me to death because of my past, Wifey, please.” “Without you, I wouldn’t have lived.” Looking at the bloodshot eyes. I wavered.

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I chased Ethan until my life fell apart. The whole internet called me a desperate stalker. But what he gave me in return was always a cold face, harsh words, and disgust. Until I finally wanted to give up. Then I heard he was going to marry the girl who bullied me in high school. I drugged him. But he choked me, pinning me against the wall, looking at me like I was dirt. “Lily, what’s the difference between you and a bitch in heat?” Later, I went to a Swiss sanitarium for my depression and died from an overdose of sedatives given by an unethical doctor. When the news of my death came, Ethan was standing at the altar. Chapter 1 Ethan was drugged. His face was unnaturally flushed, breathing rapid, eyes hazy. He looked up at me. For a second, I saw a trace of tenderness in his eyes. Like the wind crossing the wilderness, finally willing to stop for me. I was possessed. My heart burned. My feet moved forward uncontrollably. I wanted to kiss him. Just once, and I’d be satisfied. But just as my lips were about to touch his… He seemed to wake up suddenly and shoved me away. Hard. I crashed into the corner of the table. Pain shot through my lower back. He stumbled backward, step by step towards the door. Behind that door was another woman’s embrace. If he walked out, I would never have a chance again. The thought hooked me. I rushed over and hugged his waist from behind tightly. “Don’t go…” My voice trembled. “Brother, don’t you know how much I love you?” I hugged tighter, like a drowning person clutching the last piece of driftwood. “How can you marry someone else? If you leave me, I will really die! I will die!” Ethan stiffened. The next second, he broke free ruthlessly. His movement was sharp, without a shred of attachment. He looked at me with fatal pity. As if I had committed an unforgivable sin. “Lily, we are siblings.” “So what?” My voice broke. “We aren’t blood-related!” I looked at him, hoping to find a tiny bit of softness in his eyes. “Brother, I don’t believe… you feel nothing for me.” The air was terrifyingly quiet. Chapter 2 Long silence. Finally, he spoke. His voice was low and exhausted: “It’s my fault as a brother, making you have such thoughts.” He seemed to blame himself, but it hurt more than blaming me. Tears fell instantly. I collapsed. I asked him with a shaking voice: “What did I do wrong?” “I just fell in love with someone…” “It just happens to be you.” He couldn’t understand. As if I was talking about something disgusting. I approached him step by step, like a dog about to be abandoned. “Brother… let’s make a deal, okay?” “Just… sleep with me.” He froze. I became more frantic, more desperate. “I’m not just your sister.” “I am a woman too. I can like people, I can love.” “You don’t know how much I love you…” “My dreams are full of you.” “I want to give my first time to you. Why don’t you want it?” Ethan’s eyes changed instantly. Shocked and disgusted by my words. I lunged to kiss him, my hands wandering, trying to strip him, wanting him to see how shameless I could be for him. But the next second. He grabbed my neck. The immense force forced my head up. I couldn’t breathe. I could only see his red eyes filled with sober disgust. He panted, word by word. “Lily, look at yourself now.” “What’s the difference between you and a bitch in heat?” He paused after saying it. As if he scared himself. But he didn’t take it back. Tears covered my face. I could barely stand. He let go, turned, and walked toward the door. I threw myself at him, grabbing his sleeve, almost kneeling. “Why is it Ashley?” “Why her?” “Can’t it be anyone else? Please… just not her…” Ethan stopped for two seconds. Those two seconds felt like a knife carving my heart. Then he shook off my hand. Like shaking off dirt. “Lily, you are insane.” He left without looking back. Chapter 3 Ethan didn’t know I had depression. He didn’t know the culprit of everything was Ashley. Ethan and I were a blended family. When I was nine, my father married his mother. My father was honest and worked hard all his life. Ethan’s mother was shrewd, realistic, and mean. Most importantly, she favored boys over girls. We were poor. Every dollar counted. In her eyes, I, the baggage, was a waste of food. When Dad was alive, she pretended to spoil me. But after Dad died, she changed completely. She said I ate too much. Said I was useless. Said I stole her son’s resources. At dinner, she gave all the meat to Ethan. My bowl only had half rice. Sometimes, she wouldn’t let me eat at the table. I often couldn’t sleep from hunger, stomach burning. Ethan couldn’t stand it. He would secretly put meat in my bowl with his chopsticks. Whispering: “Eat quickly.” On the way to school, his pockets were always full. Bread, cookies, candy. He pretended to give them casually. “I can’t eat it. Help me.” “I don’t like the taste. Yours.” I knew he couldn’t bear to eat a single bite himself. Later, he secretly took part-time jobs. Flyers, labor, moving things. His hands were full of blisters. The money wasn’t for himself. It was for my snacks, hair clips, heat packs. He even secretly bought me a cake for my birthday. That was the best cake I ever had in my life. Chapter 4 The day I got my first period, I curled up in bed in pain. Stepmother ignored me. But he touched my head in panic: “Lily, where does it hurt?” I whispered my stomach hurt, blood stained my pants. His ears turned red as he went to the bathroom and washed that small underwear clean. After that, he bought books on female physiology. Studied them seriously at night. The next day, he clumsily but seriously told me: what menstruation is, how to care for it, how to relieve pain. He made me ginger tea and hot compresses when I was in pain. Those years, we weren’t rich. But I never felt lonely. He was the only one who patted my head and remembered what I liked to eat. He filled all the missing family love. Taught me dependence. Taught me trust. With his thin body, he lifted me from the abyss. Made me feel I wasn’t redundant. Not a burden. I knew from then on, as long as I followed him, I wouldn’t suffer, wouldn’t be left behind. Ethan was the only person in the world who loved me.

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On the first day we got back together, Julian posted a photo of me on his Instagram for the first time. He tossed the phone to me, acting like he was doing me a huge favor: “Satisfied now?” “Don’t break up with me over such small things next time.” I looked at the so-called “beautiful photo” that I used to beg him to post. My heart felt nothing. Suddenly, I realized… I don’t think I love him anymore. Chapter 1 Seeing me stare at the post, Julian rubbed his brow irritably: “I hid it from Lila. You know her condition. If she finds out we’re back together, she’ll get worse.” Only then did I notice the little icon below the post indicating specific people were blocked. So, he hid it from Lila. Rarely, I didn’t feel sad or angry. Just a bit… speechless. “You and Lila aren’t related by blood. She’s just your stepsister.” “If you really like her, I can let you go. Be together.” The moment the words left my mouth, I startled myself. Ever since I discovered Lila had feelings for Julian beyond sibling love, I had been fighting her. I never gave her a break, let alone “blessed” them. Even this breakup was because Lila got sick and demanded Julian play her boyfriend for a day. She demanded he post her photo, or she wouldn’t do the surgery. When I found out, Julian was as calm as ever, sure I wouldn’t leave: “It’s just a photo. We didn’t do anything. Stop being unreasonable.” I cried and broke up. He just said “Whatever.” Because he knew I chased him for years and never gave up. He knew I’d come back. But I clearly felt it. This time, it was different. Maybe my tone was too calm. Julian stared at me for a while, frowning deeply. When he spoke again, his voice softened: “I didn’t think it through. I ignored your feelings. I’ll delete it and repost.” “No need…” Ignoring my objection, he deleted the post blocking Lila and uploaded a photobooth picture of us. Openly visible to everyone. But instead of sweetness, I felt a strange annoyance rising in my chest. Sure enough, within half an hour, Lila stormed from her dorm to Julian’s apartment. Chapter 2 It was freezing tonight, yet Lila wore a thin white dress. Opening the door, I saw her face, pale as paper. Julian immediately grabbed a coat and wrapped it around her: “Are you crazy? Wearing so little?” She didn’t speak, just stood there, looking at Julian stubbornly. A moment later, she “fainted.” I watched Julian carry her to the sofa in a panic, taking her temperature, wiping her face with a hot towel. The “unconscious” Lila opened her eyes slightly and gave me a provocative smirk. In the past, I would have screamed. But now, I just silently opened a game of League of Legends. The room was quiet, except for the game sounds: “Double Kill,” “Triple Kill,” “Ace.” When I got a Pentakill with Jinx, I finally put down my phone. Lila “woke up.” Both of them looked at me with complex expressions. Julian hesitated: “It’s raining hard. I want Lila to stay the night.” “Okay.” I agreed readily. Julian’s face looked bad. Until I added: “I’m going back to my dorm.” He seemed relieved. “Chloe, don’t throw a tantrum now. Lila can’t get wet. She has surgery next week.” He added: “You sleep with Lila in the bedroom. I’ll take the couch.” That was exactly what I feared. Last Christmas, Julian took me home. Short on rooms, I shared one with Lila. Lila talked in her sleep all night, calling Julian’s name over and over. I didn’t sleep a wink. That was when I discovered her feelings. But the rain was getting heavier. As soon as I stepped out, the wind blew my umbrella away. I returned to the apartment silently. Seeing my mess, Julian looked amused and pained. He grabbed a towel to dry my hair: “Told you not to be stubborn…” I dodged his hand gently: “I can do it myself.” Julian’s hand froze in mid-air. Chapter 3 I thought it would be another sleepless night, but Lila was quiet. I highly suspected she faked the sleep-talking last time just to disgust me. Midnight. I got up for water and found the person next to me gone. Light seeped from the living room door crack. Whispers. I walked to the door. “You said you never look back. Why get back with her? What am I?” Lila’s voice carried a sob. “I only see you as a sister.” “Sister?” Lila sneered. “You date your sister? Hug her? Kiss her?” Julian’s reply was calm and cruel: “That’s in the past.” “Since Mom found out and died of a heart attack, we were over.” My heart skipped a beat. No wonder they always had that weird intimacy. They dated. Lila sobbed, looking up and meeting my eyes through the crack. A strange light flashed in her eyes. “Julian.” She lifted her chin: “Just tonight. Don’t push me away. From tomorrow, you are just my brother.” I saw Julian stiffen. As she leaned in to kiss him, I silently raised my phone. Intending to record it. But I forgot to turn off the flash and sound. Click. Julian turned sharply, meeting my eyes. Chapter 4 He pushed Lila away instantly and strode over: “Chloe, listen to me—” I didn’t stop recording, pointing the camera at his eyes: “Explain. I’m listening.” Confusion flashed in his eyes: “What is this?” I turned to leave. Julian grabbed my wrist. “When Mom found out about us, she had a heart attack and died. Her dying wish was for me to take care of Lila as a brother.” He took a deep breath. His vow was recorded clearly: “Being with Lila is the biggest regret of my life. Chloe, the only one I like now is you.” My gaze drifted to Lila, who sat on the floor, face pale. “Julian…” Her pleading whisper didn’t get a glance from him. As if she couldn’t hold on anymore, she ran out crying. This time, Julian didn’t chase her. He said: “I was wrong before. Mom’s wish made Lila push boundaries. I gave her the chance to hurt you. Sorry. Never again.” Julian held my hand gently. The warmth I used to crave passed through his palm. But my heart was strangely calm. Even scornful. I didn’t believe Julian would cut ties with Lila. As long as they contacted, as long as Lila loved him, it would be a mess. … I guessed right. Lila bombarded me with harassment messages for days. She sent me a burner Twitter account. Full of records of their secret relationship three years ago. “See? We kissed watching Titanic. We prayed at the temple to be together forever. He worked part-time for a month to buy me this bag…” She sent a smug emoji: “Did he do any of this for you?” I sent her Julian’s audio recording. [Being with Lila is the biggest regret of my life. Chloe, the only one I like now is you.] Lila broke down: “He’s lying! He promised on the Ferris wheel he’d only love me!” I sent the audio again. Lila raged: “You are just his excuse to avoid me! Because you’re an orphan and chased him for three years, he pitied you!” I copied the audio again. Lila: “…” Finally, she blocked me. I stared at the red exclamation mark, thoughts drifting. Two months ago, Titanic re-released. I bought tickets, excited to go with Julian. I waited all day. He never showed. Next day, I blocked him at his apartment: “Lila had a piano competition. I went with her.” Seeing my red eyes, he scolded cold: “Don’t call so much when you can’t reach me. You almost distracted Lila.” I remembered again. Maybe because I cried too hard that day. To make up for it, Julian agreed to go to the temple with me. On the way, Lila called, scared of a health checkup. Julian ditched me and took a taxi to the hospital: “Lila is afraid of needles. I have to go.” Walking back alone, I saw Lila’s Instagram. A photo of a diamond bracelet and medical report: “To coax me for the blood draw, Brother bought me the bracelet I wanted!” I had just reposted a lottery for that bracelet. Lila commented then: “I like it too. But I don’t need luck for it.” True. Whatever she wanted, Julian gave her.

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“An educated woman would never lower herself to be a mistress. So, I hope you can withdraw voluntarily.” I looked up at the young woman in front of me. “Does Julian know about this meeting?” She raised an eyebrow arrogantly. “This is our mutual decision. As long as you don’t go overboard, we will try to meet your demands.” “Okay.” I slowly curled my lips. Adults don’t make choices. Everything you have… I want it all. Chapter 1 “Tell me your story first. After listening, I’ll consider the divorce.” The woman rested her chin on her hand, her eyes instantly softening with a romantic filter. “We met at an industry cocktail party. He is knowledgeable, witty, and taught me a lot. Although he is eight years older than me, we have no communication barriers.” She paused, corners of her mouth lifting slightly. “Of course, we are compatible in every way.” The air grew thin. My ears buzzed. But nearly forty years of life experience told me now was not the time to flip the table. “Didn’t you just say educated women disdain interfering in other people’s marriages? Yet you climbed into another woman’s husband’s bed so quickly?” The woman felt no shame. “He wasn’t wearing a ring at the time. Besides, anyone can see your marriage doesn’t nourish him. A healthy relationship should be mutual achievement, not a one-sided burden.” I nodded in agreement. “So, you are very capable at work?” She straightened her back. “I’m eight years younger than you, and I’m about to be promoted to VP of Finance. By the time I reach your age, I’m confident I will become Julian’s indispensable right hand.” “Well said.” I clapped my hands. “It seems you are the partner who resonates with him spiritually and realistically. I am old and can’t keep up with his pace.” The woman hid a trace of smugness. “So, you are willing to withdraw and let us be?” “Of course.” “I trust Julian’s taste. Finding such an excellent stepmother for my son is my son’s blessing. You deserve it.” “Stepmother?” The expression on her face froze instantly. “What do you mean?” I looked more confused than her. “Didn’t Julian tell you we have a seven-year-old son?” “Your son, what does he have to do with me?” I scoffed lightly. “Young women are everywhere. You should understand these principles better than me. If you want to be Julian’s right hand, don’t consider having children. Instead of letting Julian find some unreliable slut, I’d rather it be you.” I looked her up and down. “You won’t understand until you are a mother. Custody is just a legal procedure. Who gets the money is the substance. I don’t mind you raising my son, as long as you are willing to package your second half of life and give it to him.” The smile on the woman’s face stiffened instantly. Replaced by shock and fear. The next second, the waiter brought the bill. “Hello, who is paying?” I pointed to the girl opposite me. “Of course, it’s her. This is my son’s stepmother, the VP of Finance at a state-owned enterprise. By the way, you don’t mind if I take a few cakes to go, right?” I pointed casually at the counter. The woman’s face turned black as she slowly took out her phone. “Your son has nothing to do with me. I won’t raise him, nor will I accept him. I will discuss custody with Julian again.” With that, she grabbed her bag and stormed off. Chapter 2 Staring at her back, a sourness surged in my nose. No one knows how long I waited for this day. Two years? Three years? I can’t remember. Yes, I knew about Julian’s affair long ago. For the past three years, his most frequent phrase was that the company was doing poorly, asking me and our son to cut expenses. So for three years, I lived worse than a dog. But this woman, under his care, went from a monthly salary of $5,000 to an annual salary of $400,000. Once the heart tastes pleasure, it becomes greedy. She was no longer satisfied with companionship; she wanted to replace me, to stand by his side legitimately. Just now, when the sun hit her face, even her peach fuzz glowed gold. Every gesture was full of ease untouched by hardship. I’m not surprised Julian loves her. The woman in the mirror is 36. My entire youth is hidden in the fine lines of my eyes. My era has quietly ended. The next second, the alarm rang. Leo was about to finish school. At the apartment entrance, I saw Julian rushing back. “Sorry, I didn’t know she would find you.” I looked up, forcing back tears. “She is more honest than you. At least she knows I can’t wait anymore.” Julian’s Adam’s apple rolled, and he finally said it. “You can ask for anything. After all these years, I won’t let you suffer too much.” My nose soured again. So everything that woman said was true. My departure had long been gossip over their tea and dinner. “Dad! Mom!” A childish cheer came from behind. The school bus stopped, and my son rushed over. At seven, he didn’t know what happened. He only knew to hug his leg and act spoiled: “Daddy, I missed you so much!” My heart was silently wrung again. For seven years, I gave him a fairy tale world. He is kind and simple, thinking all parents love each other like I pretended. How do I tell him this father already built a home outside? At night, after coaxing Leo to sleep, I walked to the living room. Julian was on the balcony making a call. His back was so familiar, yet so distant. I remember. Seven years ago in the delivery room, looking at the wrinkled little life, his hands trembled: “Joanna, I swear, I will protect you both with my life.” I remember. Postpartum hair loss clogged the drain. He squatted on the floor, picking up the hair strand by strand, eyes red: “No more babies. Your hair used to be so beautiful.” I remember. When Leo was two and had a febrile seizure, I was scared out of my wits, only crying on the phone. He was at a project site 300 miles away. He drove all night, appearing at the hospital in four and a half hours, hugging me tight: “Don’t be afraid. I’m here.” That sentence made me believe for ten years. How did we get here? “Joanna.” The man opened the balcony door, bringing in a chill. “Is Leo asleep?” I nodded, pulling out the prepared divorce agreement from my bag. “Let’s talk.” “Ten years of marriage, two houses, two cars. I know nothing about the assets in your hands these years, so I give you two options.” “One: You take Leo and the small apartment. All remaining assets go to me.” “Two: I take Leo and both houses. You are responsible for paying off the remaining mortgage.” Julian’s brows furrowed. “You actually… don’t want our son? How do you plan to explain this to him?” “Explain?” I looked at him incredulously. “Did you consider how to explain to our son when you were undressing with that woman?” He closed his eyes, jaw tight. “I don’t want to fight, but neither option is fair to me. Don’t forget I earned all the money in this family.” I nodded and pressed play on the recording. “I’m eight years younger than you, and I’m about to be promoted to VP of Finance. By the time I reach your age, I’m confident I will become Julian’s indispensable right hand.” Recording ended. I looked at him. “Julian, I’m so proud of you. You found a soulmate evenly matched in power. So, what’s wrong with compensating me a little more?” Yes, I was threatening him. Chapter 3 Although he is the group CEO, evidence of favoritism towards his mistress should be worth a lot. The next second, his phone rang. Julian hastily grabbed the agreement. “I’ll take this to read. We’ll discuss details tomorrow.” “Okay. Hope you get what you wish for.” That night, sleep was impossible. Custody of my son. Direction of the future. Everything was unknown. But I understood one thing: the father-son bond cannot be broken. I can protect wealth for my son, but I can’t give him the future he wants. I know everyone would advise me to work hard, fight for a bright future for my son, and make the scumbag regret. But the reality is I am almost forty. My best youth was dedicated to this family. Now, one sentence from him overturned my entire decade. When the sky turned pale, Julian sent a message: “Joanna, can you get to City Hall by 9? Let’s negotiate details in person.” Sent at 4:58 AM. He really didn’t want to wait a minute longer. I opened my swollen eyes a slit. Staring at that sentence for a long time. I replied one word: “Okay.” Dealing with that Ivy League woman taught me a lesson: Except for the mother, no one truly wants custody. So from the start, I couldn’t show any desire. I wanted Julian to willingly push our son back to me. When I arrived at City Hall, the two were waiting. “You’re finally here.” The man stood up, pulling out a chair for me habitually. “About the house… I think, the big house has nearly $2 million in mortgage left, you can’t afford it. So you can have the small apartment, plus $500,000 compensation. Enough for you and Leo.” He paused. “Vivian is still young. It’s unfair for her to take care of Leo right away. Besides… we will have our own children.” I looked at their hands tightly clasped under the table and understood instantly. He wasn’t afraid of my threat. This recording couldn’t directly prove embezzlement or conflict of interest. Her promotion could have countless explanations. For my son, I didn’t dare make a scene at his company. So, he regained control. I took a deep breath, feigning weakness: “The big house is mine, and you pay off the mortgage. That’s my bottom line.” Hearing this, Julian looked troubled. “Joanna, most of my cash and bonuses are in company stock options. The industry is bad, cashing out now means losing half the value… Mom’s illness two years ago took a lot of my money. I really can’t do it now.” “But! Leo is my heart. I promise I won’t skimp on child support. Name a number, if I can do it, I will.” Looking at this face I once loved deeply, now full of calculation, I laughed lightly. They looked at me confused. “What are you laughing at?” I didn’t answer. Instead, I took a printed list from my bag. I looked up at the Ivy League woman. “Miss Vivian, you heard him. The way a man cries poverty to his old love might be the reality you face one day.” “He says he has no money, I believe him. But as long as this joint debt exists, he and I will be bound forever.” “So the only one who can solve this problem is you.” The woman frowned. “Me?” Chapter 4 “Yes.” I pushed the house photo and floor plan over. “Use your personal assets to buy this house. This will permanently remove the ex-wife obstacle, and you will have enough say. This is the essential difference between a career woman and a housewife.” The air solidified. Julian looked like he ate shit. “What are you talking about? Why should Vivian bear this debt?” I looked at him puzzled. “Or else? Isn’t that why you brought her here?” The career woman finally reacted, lips trembling slightly. “You want me to… buy the house you lived in?” “Smart!” I snapped my fingers. “Love requires sincerity, right? Six million, a friendship price. Two million down payment to release the lien, consider it redeeming your lover.” I leaned back, meeting their incredulous gazes. “To be honest, I’ve waited for this day for a long time.” Silence. Her chest heaved. But she had no choice. She is an educated woman. Completely different from a shrew like me. In their eyes, I am a yellow-faced woman with no wealth, no status, who can’t even keep her husband. So what? I smiled brightly at her in the sunlight. “By the way, Julian likes to sleep in the study. Hope you can fix that bad habit.” With that, I picked up my bag and left. I love love-brained women. Especially those who are educated, make money, and think they control everything. They always think their status can crush any housewife. Little do they know, the real hunter has been sitting across the table, waiting for her to bet everything. Then, smiling, takes it all. Whether she buys the house or not, I won my first move. I successfully moved her from the position of a third party enjoying the fruits to a partner. Why do men always think true love is with the mistress? Because that relationship has no mortgage pressure, no diapers, no seven-year itch. All he experiences with her is pleasure. So, here comes the problem. Want to break free completely? Put away the stock option excuse, take out 2 million real cash, and pay the debt. Want to maintain dignity? Find someone to take over this house. Unless cash hits my account, I will never sign any divorce papers. Late at night, the doorbell rang.

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Three years after our divorce, I reunited with Caleb on the streets of Seattle. I was a volunteer handing out cold medicine, and he was a homeless man who had fallen below the poverty line. Ironically, our divorce… Was over a cooking pot. “Twice a day, two pills each time.” I handed him the medicine, my tone as calm as if talking to a stranger. Caleb’s eyes turned red. “Lily, you still hate me.” I didn’t look up, continuing to distribute the medicine. “This medicine costs $10. It’s cheap. But back then, it forced me to sell my plasma.” “Caleb, how can I not hate you?” Chapter 1 I spoke of hate so lightly. Behind me, Caleb froze, silent. After a long time, I heard fading footsteps. I looked back. Caleb’s thin figure was swallowed by Seattle’s gray, cold rain. “Lily, you know that homeless guy?” A gentle touch on my arm. It was Tara, my junior from college. I withdrew my gaze and nodded. “Yeah. My ex-husband.” Tara gasped, unable to suppress her surprise. “Ex… ex-husband?” “Lily, how could you marry a homeless man?” I shook my head, handing out the last packet of medicine. I explained: “He wasn’t like this when I met him.” “We’re done here. The rain is getting heavier, let’s head back to campus.” On the way, seeing Tara’s hesitant curiosity, I smiled helplessly. I started talking about my past with Caleb intermittently. It was a cliché campus love story. After graduation, he was a software engineer in Silicon Valley, and I was an actuary at an investment bank. Good income. We rented a nice apartment in a safe neighborhood. In my plan, we would own a home in five years, get married, have a cute baby, and become one of the lit windows in the city. Tara listened, her frown deepening. “That sounds like a happy life. Why did you divorce?” “Did Caleb cheat?” I pressed down her clenched fist and explained: “No. He didn’t cheat, and neither did I.” “We divorced because of a pot.” Tara’s eyes widened, thinking I was joking. Maybe, it was more than just a pot. Three years ago, on a rainy night just like this. I asked Caleb to stop by Macy’s on his way home from work and buy a new pot. The landlord’s old non-stick pan had lost almost all its coating. I was responsible for grocery shopping, planning to cook a fancy dinner for our anniversary. In my imagination—the pot would be bubbling, Caleb would sniff and say “Smells good,” and we would talk about the future over soup. Maybe buying our own house next year, or getting a cat. But when the door opened, Caleb was holding a new camera, waving at me frantically: “Babe, look at this!” “I paid extra to snag it! Limited edition!” I stared at the camera, stunned for a few seconds. The plastic bags cut deep red marks into my hands, stinging with numbness. I asked subconsciously: “Where’s the pot?” Caleb seemed stumped. But then he smiled, nonchalant: “It’s just a pot. Macy’s isn’t going bankrupt, we can buy it anytime.” “But this! If I missed it, it’s gone! Isn’t a camera more romantic than a pot?” “By the way, I saw we had some money left in our joint account, so I bought tickets. Go pack, we’re taking this new camera to Iceland to chase the Aurora!” I didn’t speak. I just put down the grocery bags. Silently took out my phone and checked our joint account. Balance: $0.41. We couldn’t even pay the water bill this month. Caleb’s excited voice droned on: “Babe, listen. This camera has insane ISO, our Aurora photos will be grain-free. We can print them out and stick them on the fridge…” A familiar sense of powerlessness washed over me. I felt so tired. For three years, Caleb was always like this. He lived in the moment. If he wanted something, he got it now, even if it meant maxing out credit cards. While I wanted a future I could plan for, a future that could withstand risks. I looked up at him, still excitedly playing with the new camera. Suddenly, I realized. Caleb and I were on different paths. “Let’s get a divorce.” Chapter 2 Click. The camera in Caleb’s hand hit the table corner. He looked at me blankly: “Divorce?” “Why? Just because I didn’t buy that pot? Or because I bought tickets to Iceland without asking? Lily, over such trivial things?” They were trivial things. But a floor full of trivialities is enough to break a person. “Caleb, I told you many times.” “I don’t want to live like this. I don’t want our account balance to be single digits every time. I don’t want to live on credit cards. I don’t want to keep moving from rental to rental.” “Being with you is exhausting.” Caleb looked like he heard the biggest joke, raising his voice to argue: “Exhausting? I work hard every day. I want to show you the most beautiful scenery, record our life with the best lens. And that tires you?” “Yes! That’s exactly what tires me!” Three years of bitterness exploded. I couldn’t help but shout. I opened the Notes app on my phone, scrolled to the top, and turned the screen to Caleb: “Caleb, do you remember this?” It was a simple entry: Goal: Down Payment. Current Total: $47,218 Progress: 21.2% Last update: Three years ago, the afternoon we first saw that little condo. Caleb’s eyes flickered. “You said you wanted to give us a home.” “My overtime pay, every coffee money I saved, all my savings went in there. But do you remember where that money went?” I clicked on a screenshot of an expired travel booking. “First month after marriage, you maxed out the credit card for a ‘North Pole Photography Tour.’ Your paycheck was delayed, you couldn’t pay the card, and we almost missed rent. We used that money.” I scrolled through electronic receipts one by one. “And this. Last year, that ‘Skydiving Experience Camp’ you insisted on. We used our emergency fund. You even spent an extra five thousand on new gear.” “And two months ago. We finally saved a bit. You traded the car for a performance car on loan. You said you wanted a novel driving experience.” “Caleb, have you ever thought about our future?” His lips moved, but no sound came out. He just lowered his head silently. “Every time we go grocery shopping, I compare prices and calculate weight. You stand there scrolling on your phone, impatiently telling me to just grab whatever, it’s just a few bucks!” “I suggested taking classes to learn new skills because the job market is bad. You said it’s a waste of money, then turned around and bought a new lens.” “I budgeted for months, and you spent hundreds on games without blinking.” … My accusations seemed to ignite Caleb’s anger. He ruffled his hair irritably. “Lily, can you stop being so realistic!” “You only see pots and pans, rent and bills. If life is just this, what’s the point? I just want our life to have meaning.” Two tears fell powerlessly from my eyes. “Meaning?” “But your ‘meaning’ left us unable to pay the water bill this month.” Caleb’s face turned pale with anger. “Money!” “Money again! You always talk about money!” “We can earn more money, but some opportunities…” I interrupted Caleb. I didn’t want to continue this exhausting argument. “Three whole years! Every time I said I wanted to save for a down payment, you said ‘renting is better, more freedom.’ Every time I was anxious about the uncertain future, you said ‘why worry, just be happy now’.” “Caleb, I want a home. You can’t give it to me.” He was pinned in place by my words, chest heaving, unable to find a rebuttal. Only our heavy breathing remained in the room. I looked at this man I loved for three years. The carefree spirit that once attracted me… Now seemed like a refusal to grow up. I turned my head and saw his packed suitcase in the corner. My intense emotions suddenly subsided. I looked at Caleb: “Make a choice.” “Go chase your Aurora, or stay and face the utility bills with me?” Chapter 3 The door closed behind him. Caleb left. I stood there numbly for two seconds before coming back to reality. I found a lawyer’s number and dialed. “Hello, I’d like you to draft a divorce agreement ASAP.” “We have no joint assets, only some debts to split. The sooner the better, thanks.” Hanging up, the rain outside seemed heavier. My breathing became hot and rapid. Maybe it was the rain I caught outside the supermarket, or the reaction after the emotional roller coaster. I dragged my heavy feet to the bedroom. Temperature: 101.3°F. Fever. After searching for ages, I only found one expired Tylenol. I didn’t care. I swallowed it with cold water, praying the fever would break after sleep. But it was worse than I thought. In the middle of the night, I woke up in pain. My body felt like a burning volcano. This won’t do. I was delirious from the fever. My instinctive reaction was to call Caleb. Beep. Beep. Beep. Only when the busy tone sounded for the third time did my brain sluggishly realize. Caleb should be on a plane to Iceland. How could he answer? I laughed dryly, making my throat hurt more. Laughing at myself for being so feverish I still relied on him. I thought of my colleagues. I didn’t want to trouble anyone, but in this situation, I had to be thick-skinned. But the receiver only played a cold mechanical voice: “Sorry, your service has been suspended due to non-payment. Please recharge immediately to restore service.” Suspended? I tried to pay. But looking at the payment page… Where could I get money? Our account had $0.41. I couldn’t even afford the cheapest plan. Phone service and data were bundled. No phone meant no internet. I couldn’t even send a distress signal. I had to save myself. Luckily, the offline map still worked. I squinted, searching laboriously. The nearest 24-hour ER was 3 miles away. Not too far to drive. I struggled to the garage and turned on the light. Empty. I remembered sluggishly. Caleb took the car for mods yesterday. I suggested renting a car as backup since we lived in the suburbs. Caleb shook his head immediately: “Bus and subway are right there, why waste money? I’m just changing the exhaust pipe, it’s fast. Back tomorrow.” “What could happen? Don’t worry about useless things.” But now, no car. I stood there, shivering, unable to stand steady. If I kept burning up, I might die at home. No. I have to go to the hospital. Using all my strength, I found the thickest down jacket, put on two pairs of pants, pulled up my socks, and wrapped a scarf around my neck and face, trying to trap a little heat. Couldn’t hold an umbrella, so I wore a raincoat. Opening the door, Seattle at 3:30 AM was like a giant wet refrigerator. The cold soaked into my bones. Every step felt like walking on clouds, dizzying. I kept my head down, daring not to stop. Suddenly, dirty shoes appeared in front of me, blocking my way. I looked up sluggishly. Three men. Soaked, smelling strongly of alcohol and tobacco. Grinning lewdly at me. I realized something was wrong instantly. I turned to run, but was grabbed. One of them yanked off my hood. “Wearing so much… what goodies are you hiding inside?” I screamed. “No… go away!” But two of them were already dragging me toward the darker woods nearby.

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The night before our wedding, I found photos of another girl on Jared’s phone. She had a sweet smile, full of energy, mostly candid shots. I didn’t choose to suffer in silence. I handed the phone to him and demanded an explanation. Jared smoked in the living room all night. In the morning, he walked into the bedroom and said: “I admit, I have some feelings for her, but that’s all.” After ten years of love, I wasn’t willing to give up on Jared just for some photos. I put on my wedding dress and let the ceremony proceed. But halfway through, his assistant Liam rushed out and shouted to Jared: “Chief Jared! Claire found out you’re getting married and slit her wrists!” The diamond ring hovered in mid-air, then fell heavily to the floor. Jared bolted toward the door like lightning. Red-eyed, I screamed at his back: “If you walk out that door today, we are done forever!” He paused for a second, then left the wedding without hesitation. Chapter 1 Looking at the endless stream of photos on his phone, my heart seized with pain. No intimate poses. Just moments of her eyes shining while working. Pouting playfully while eating, pretending to be mad. Laughing freely when she got a bonus. … Most were candid shots. There were also a few selfies acting cute for the camera. In the past, I would have smashed the phone in Jared’s face and walked away瀟洒ly. But now, tomorrow, we were about to complete our ten-year marathon. A happy ending. Marriage. We notified all friends and family, booked the venue, sent the invitations. Happiness was within reach. And I found this at such a critical moment. I didn’t want to face it. I forced the tears back and took a deep breath. I decided to confront him. Jared is an excellent man. Youngest Chief Engineer at NASA JPL. Ten years of mutual support, I knew his character. When I placed the photos in front of him, he wasn’t surprised. He probably didn’t intend to hide it. During the eight long hours of darkness. He smoked two packs of cigarettes in the living room. I watched the stars from the bedroom all night. Early the next morning, before the makeup artist knocked. He walked into the bedroom and confessed. “This girl is my assistant, Claire.” “I admit, I was moved by her.” My heart, suspended in mid-air, sank violently. Then I heard Jared say: “But Winnie, it hasn’t been easy for us to get here. I will transfer her out of my team. I promise you this will never happen again.” Jared promised sincerely. In ten years, he never broke a promise to me. I couldn’t let go of these ten years, couldn’t cut off this love connected to my bones and blood. So I chose to forgive. Until the wedding, when the officiant asked that solemn question: “Do you take Winnie to be your lawfully wedded wife, to love and cherish her forever?” My heart pounded with anxiety. Thump, thump. Waiting for him to give me, give this relationship, a perfect ending. But with one sentence from his assistant, he threw the ring onto the cold floor. Everyone watched him rush out of the wedding. Leaving me behind. His promise was broken. Chapter 2 The wedding turned into chaos. Neither set of parents knew what happened. Assistant Liam’s eyes flickered as he explained anxiously: “An assistant under the Chief had an accident. She… she has important experimental data. The Chief just went to check. He’ll be back soon.” Liam has been with Jared for eight years. He was always respectful to me, calling me “Sister-in-law” with a smile. But now, he didn’t even have the courage to look me in the eye. I didn’t know how much he helped Jared hide from me, or what was going on with that girl named Claire. A dense pain spread in my chest. I truly felt Jared’s betrayal. My parents held my hands, anxious. “This is ridiculous! Who is more important than his wedding? Making him leave Winnie like this?” Jared’s parents were guilt-ridden, making calls while comforting me. “Winnie, don’t worry. I’ll make that brat come back and apologize to you immediately.” I gripped the ring in my hand, piercing the skin. Leaving a bloody mark. For three full hours, Jared didn’t answer any calls. He ran recklessly to save that girl. Leaving me alone at the wedding like a moth to a flame, accepting the strange looks and whispers of the guests. Overwhelmed by rage and grief, I fainted. When I woke up, the doctor gently instructed: “You are eating for two now. Don’t get agitated. Take care of your body.” My heart sank. Looking at my excited parents and in-laws. I forced a bitter, ugly smile. Tears filled my eyes. How do I explain to my parents that this ten-year marathon had its first real tear? Not long after, Jared arrived. His face was pale, looking at me with guilt. My parents left the room, telling Jared to apologize properly. The room was quiet. He held my cold hand, silent for a while, voice raspy. “Winnie, in ten years, I’ve never asked you for anything. Our relationship has always been good. Just this once, I beg you not to spread this, it will ruin Claire’s reputation, okay?” Looking at his pleading eyes, my heart twisted into a knot, suffocating me. He shouldn’t beg me. He should apologize. A person’s first reaction doesn’t lie. He didn’t think about how humiliated I was left at the wedding. Didn’t worry why I was in the hospital. He opened his mouth only for Claire. Tears uncontrollable rolled down my cheeks onto the blue sheets. Creating a wet stain. I squeezed out a word from my throat with difficulty. “Okay.” He sighed in relief and continued: “Claire is emotionally unstable knowing I was getting married.” “I want to stay at the hospital to comfort her these days. Let’s wait a bit, maybe half an year. Just six months, then we’ll get married, okay?” Jared’s voice was tentative. Half a year. I waited ten years. Six months. I could afford to wait. But there was no need. It was just a change of heart. I could take it. A dull anger blocked my chest, burning my insides. There was a little life in my belly, waiting for me to nurture. I thought for a long, long time. My mind was full of that girl’s smile, and Jared’s doting look at his phone. The blockage in my chest slowly dissipated. Suddenly, I didn’t want to wait anymore. I pulled my hand from his and spoke softly. “Jared.” “I’m not a smart girl. I’ve loved you since I was eighteen, for ten years.” “I remember how you trembled when you first confessed to me. Your performance that day made me laugh and my heart flutter.” “I remember when I agreed to be your girlfriend, you hugged me and cried tears of joy. That was the first time I felt love outside of family.” “Over the years, you bought me everything I liked, fulfilled every promise, kept every vow.” “For ten years, I thought you loved me to the bone.” I looked up, tears suddenly surging. “But today, I feel… you don’t love me anymore.” One sentence: Not loving anymore. Defeated me completely. Ten years of love, too many beautiful memories. Jared’s eyes reddened, a tear slipping out. “But Winnie, she needs me right now.” One sentence: She needs me. Nailed me in place. Completely awake. I didn’t ask him to stay. I let Jared leave the room. Chapter 3 The next day, as I prepared to be discharged, I bumped into Jared in the hallway. He didn’t see me. His eyes were full of the girl he was supporting. She was tall and thin, looking very pure, eyes big and round. So that was Claire. The girl who slit her wrists for Jared, making the usually calm Jared lose composure at his wedding. Probably because my gaze lingered too long, she noticed me. Her face turned white, turning away, gripping Jared’s arm nervously. Jared noticed me. He walked towards me unhappily, voice muffled. “Winnie, Claire is weak. Let’s talk at home. Don’t make a scene here and embarrass Claire.” Claire in his arms looked even paler, terrified of me. “Si… Sister Winnie, I… there’s nothing between me and the Chief. Don’t misunderstand.” I gripped the lab report, smiling lightly. “You misunderstood. I’m here to pay the bill.” Jared looked at me weirdly, his anger inexplicably dissipating. I walked past him to the payment window. Walking out of the hospital, Jared texted me. [Winnie, don’t be mad. I was just urgent earlier. I bought you a gift, remember to sign for it.] When the courier knocked, I accepted a cake. I was spoiled and loved romance. When Jared upset me, he always sent a Disney castle cake. I ate it for ten years. I was tired of it long ago. But Jared was so busy. I felt sorry for him, staying up late for research and still trying to coax me. So every time I received this cake, I pretended to be happy. Hoping he would be happy too. Now, I finally didn’t have to pretend. I gave the cake to the neighbor’s kid and replied to Jared. [Ten years. Just like you, no matter how good the cake is, I’m sick of it.] Jared probably understood my insinuation. He replied with an apology. [I was inconsiderate. Tomorrow, I’ll pick a gift for you personally at the mall.] That night, Jared didn’t come home. Peeling away a ten-year relationship isn’t easy. I had insomnia, so I got up to pack my things. Throwing things into boxes, I couldn’t help recalling. Graduation year, Jared just entered the research institute, busy as a bee. A year later, he put a ten-year contract and five million dollars in my hand. “Winnie, I’ll give you a home. I keep my word.” The boy in my memory was sincere and brave. His love burned hotter than the rising sun. That day, I cried and hugged him. We bought this house. Kissed in the sunset. Blushed while shopping at IKEA. Chatted like chirping birds. The star lights on the balcony were hung by us, the rocking chair held ten years of whispers. We leaned on the carpet eating watermelon, drinking soda, watching cheesy dramas. He said he’d give me a home. Now he forced me to leave this home. Chapter 4 I spent three days clearing out everything that belonged to me. While packing, both sets of parents came. I was too ashamed to tell them what Jared did, so until today… They didn’t know why we separated. My parents respected my decision, but Jared’s parents kept persuading me: “Winnie, the wedding is so close. Couples fight, it’s normal. Don’t really separate!” I didn’t speak, letting the movers carry boxes out one by one. Jared’s parents were wearing out their lips when Jared unexpectedly returned. Holding Claire’s hand. The room went silent. Everyone looked at them, expressions varying. Jared’s mom’s voice trembled: “Jared… did you… do something wrong to Winnie?” Jared’s dad stared wide-eyed in anger. “Son! Who is this woman?” Jared didn’t answer. He scanned the half-empty room and looked at me. “Where are you moving?” He was still so calm and rational, accepting my departure peacefully. No explanation. No retention. And shamelessly brought Claire back here. I said calmly. “Back to my real home.” Jared nodded. “Okay. I’ll visit you later.” After saying that, he pulled Claire to his side and introduced her. “This is my lab assistant. She was discharged today. I brought her to see the house and have a meal.” Jared’s open introduction made our suspicions seem petty. Claire warmly held Jared’s mom’s arm, smiling sweetly. “Auntie, the Chief takes good care of me at the institute. He said he’d treat me to dinner to celebrate my discharge!” “But how dare I trouble the Chief? Since you and Uncle are here, why not try my cooking?” Jared’s mom looked at me awkwardly. “Winnie, why don’t we sit down and talk it out…” I was about to refuse. Claire interrupted, eyes flashing with provocative triumph. “Sister Winnie, let’s eat together, what do you say?” Slap. The change happened in an instant. I widened my eyes, watching my mom slap Claire. “Mom, you…” Mom looked at me with red eyes, voice trembling. “I gave birth to you. You think I don’t know anything?” “You’ve been with Jared since eighteen. Now twenty-eight. Ten years of youth! For him, a rich young lady learned to cook, knit, swallow grievances… if it wasn’t unbearable, would you come home?” “Mom doesn’t ask for much, but today, Jared brought this woman to slap your face. Mom can’t stand it.” “If my daughter won’t stand up for herself, I will.” Mom’s words were powerful. Claire covered her face, daring not to speak. Jared looked at her with heartache, face ugly. “Winnie! You’re an adult, still tittle-tattling to parents…” Before he finished, I rushed out with red eyes and slapped him hard several times. After venting, I took a diagnosis report from under the coffee table and threw it at him. “Do you know what I regret most in my life?” Jared turned his head, opened the report, and pupils shrank. “Winnie… you… you’re pregnant?”

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