When I was five, my parents adopted the son of their late best friends. We grew up side by side. For eighteen years, I called him “brother.” He spoiled me with a decade of unconditional indulgence. He told me that under his protection, I could do whatever I wanted, forever. Until that stormy night, when a moment of impulse led to a night of reckless passion. Fighting back my shyness, I confessed the love I had hidden for years. But in his eyes, I saw nothing but undisguised mockery and disdain. “People like you, Harper… you think you can get whatever you want so easily.” The very next day, he began a systematic series of blind dates, preparing for a business marriage. Later, a paternity test shattered my reality and stripped me of my identity. I returned to my biological parents and started a new life. But he threw everything away, chased after me with bloodshot eyes, and asked if we could start over. I shook my head calmly. “From the beginning to the end, our meeting was a mistake.” Chapter 1 “Harper, have you really decided to leave New York?” “Yeah. I’ll be gone before the holidays.” “They are your biological parents, that’s true. But I’ve raised you with such care all these years. You will always be my precious girl. If you stay with the Hayes family, your future will be brighter.” “I understand, Dad. Whether my last name is Hayes or not, you will always be my dearest father.” “Alright. We respect your decision. Go tell your brother.” “Thanks, Dad. I’ll let him know.” After hanging up, I drove straight to Hayes Corp. When I appeared outside Ethan Sterling’s office, his secretary looked surprised and stood up. “Miss Hayes.” “Is he in? I need to see him,” I said directly. “One moment.” The secretary dialed the internal line, announced me to Ethan, and then looked at me with an awkward expression after hanging up. “Ms. Vance is in there. Mr. Sterling asks you to wait outside for a while.” That “while” turned into two hours. From inside the office, the faint sounds of a woman’s laughter and a man’s low voice drifted out occasionally. The secretary’s team was used to it, but I sat there stiff as a board, a sharp pain spreading from my chest to my limbs. Finally, the office door opened. Ethan walked out, holding Serena Vance’s hand. The flush on her cheeks hadn’t faded, and her hair was slightly messy. A few strands fell loosely by her ear, adding to her allure. She looked shy, nervous, but mostly… sweet. Ethan’s tie was loosened. He looked distracted as he kissed her on the eyelids. “I’ll have the driver take you home. I’ll call you tonight.” Only after Serena entered the elevator did Ethan deign to look at me. Neither of us spoke. The air felt solid, suffocating. After a long silence, I surrendered first. “I came to resign.” I handed him the envelope. Ethan frowned, his eyes cold. “Harper, stop playing these hard-to-get games. Even if you aren’t Dad’s biological daughter, I still treat you as a sister.” Under his scrutiny, I kept my expression flat. I didn’t look away. “Think whatever you want. I quit.” “Stop being a brat. I won’t approve your resignation.” I laughed softly, my eyes full of irony. “I thought you’d be eager for me to get lost, so I wouldn’t ruin your engagement.” Ethan scoffed. “You aren’t important enough to influence my decisions.” I nodded, expressionless. “Then please, Mr. Sterling, be generous and let me go.” We were once the closest two people in the world. Now, we stood on opposite sides, every word a thorn. Ethan stared at me in silence for a long time before finally signing the letter. “As you wish.” We were siblings by bond, raised together. But now, we treated each other worse than strangers. Chapter 2 Night fell. Outside, a hurricane battered the windows, making terrifying noises. A crack of thunder, and the villa plunged into darkness. I curled up in the corner of my bed, fear clinging to me like a shadow. Forgetting everything else, I tremblingly dialed Ethan. My voice was thick with tears. “Ethan, I’m scared. The power is out.” Ethan’s voice was cold and impatient. “Enough, Harper. I told you, that night was just an accident.” “Even if you use the same excuse to shamelessly seduce me again, I won’t indulge your tantrums anymore.” The light in my eyes dimmed. I couldn’t believe he thought of me that way. Before I could explain, he hung up. When I called back, it went straight to voicemail. Then, a text came from Serena: [You aren’t a Hayes anymore. Know your place. Stop guilt-tripping Ethan.] She sent a photo. It was Ethan, standing in front of a floor-to-ceiling window, wearing a bathrobe. His back was broad and straight. It was the apartment Ethan had said he would never bring another woman to. My heart sank violently, falling into an endless ice cavern. Tears fell silently. The tenderness and trust of the past were gone. When I was five, a ten-year-old Ethan was brought to the Hayes estate by my parents. Later, my mother died in a car accident. My father, unable to bear the memories, lived abroad for most of the year. From the time I could remember, my world consisted only of the nanny and Ethan. Growing up together, time wove countless warm memories into our lives. The way he used to look at me was always full of gentleness and indulgence. When I smiled, the corners of his mouth would lift unconsciously. He used to say my happiness was his whole world. When I acted out, he would watch quietly, his eyes full of tolerance. When I was wronged, he would protect me at all costs. Any whimsical wish I had, he would move mountains to fulfill. Other heirs from wealthy families started dating or arranging marriages at his age. But he always said, “I can’t bear to leave Harper alone at home. I’ll wait until she gets a boyfriend.” First love bloomed. I had never seen a man better than Ethan. My feelings for him had long surpassed those of a sister. Sadly, all that beauty came to a screeching halt on that rainy night. If I hadn’t been so bold, taking advantage of his drunkenness for a night of indulgence… When I woke up the next day, I couldn’t suppress my joy. I traced the outline of his face, my eyes full of attachment. The madness and blur of the previous night were still vivid. His brows, his eyes, his lips—everything made my heart race. Fighting my shyness, I confessed. But in Ethan’s eyes, I saw panic and regret. He frowned. “Enough, Harper. You are just my sister. I am good to you because your last name is Hayes. The Hayes family saved me.” The very next day, he started dating frequently, stepping onto the path of an arranged marriage. I watched him bring home woman after woman. Some glamorous, some elegant. I didn’t believe he was heartless. I thought he cared too much about societal judgment, afraid of disappointing Dad. I thought he wanted me to give up, to bury my feelings. I even thought he was suffering alone for the sake of responsibility. Until he met Serena Vance. Only then did I realize that the looks I thought were filled with deep affection were just my own delusions. Chapter 3 After he started appearing everywhere with Serena, I refused to give up. I asked him why it couldn’t be me. He looked at me with a mockery and disdain I had never seen before, his tone icy. “Harper Hayes, people like you… you think you can get whatever you want so easily.” “In this world, not everyone has to revolve around you.” My world collapsed in that moment. The cold words from the person I loved pierced my defenseless heart like bullets. He was the one who promised me a lifetime of peace countless times. He said that with him, I could do whatever I wanted, that he wouldn’t let anyone hurt me. But in the end, he was the one who hurt me the deepest. He warned me coldly, “Harper, pretend that night never happened. I am your brother, nothing more.” Yet, after saying those words, when I was struggling with a major project at the company and being blocked by senior executives due to my lack of experience… Ethan secretly assembled an elite team to strategize for my nearly failing project, providing resources and support. He specifically demanded that no one tell me about his involvement. When I accidentally found out, I rushed to his office to confront him. If he rejected me, why work silently behind my back? Why protect my dreams? But Ethan said coldly, “Harper, you are a Hayes. I’ve been in this family for eighteen years. I won’t allow anyone to walk all over a Hayes. I did it for the family, not for you.” “As for why I hid it? I just didn’t want you to get the wrong idea again.” In that moment, I understood. It was all my own wishful thinking. He was good to me simply because I carried the name Hayes. To repay my parents’ kindness, he obeyed my every whim. I mistook it for love and shamelessly fell for him. I wondered if, deep down, he felt that sharing such a “secret” with me was disgusting and shameful. He pointed indifferently at the door. “Get out. Don’t come into my office without official business.” I looked at the sofa where my dedicated nap pillow still lay, then at the cold, completely unfamiliar man in front of me. My fantasies and expectations shattered completely. I opened my mouth, but nothing came out. I turned around, dazed, and walked out on shaky legs. In my panic, I bumped into his secretary. The invitations in her arms scattered all over the floor. I bent down to pick them up. When the familiar gold lettering caught my eye, my heart skipped a beat. I stared at every word on the invitation. Every stroke seemed to mock my unrequited love. Tears finally broke free, falling onto the card, blurring Ethan’s name. So, he and Serena were already getting engaged… He cared for me out of duty. I was just a passerby in his life. Now that he was about to walk down the aisle with someone else, my existence was a burden. A stain. From this moment on, for the sake of the Hayes family’s dignity, I had to accept reality and let go of this impossible love. Just as I was preparing to pack up my feelings and go back to being Ethan’s obedient sister, a paternity test stripped me of my identity. My father, while abroad, met a female student who looked exactly like my mother did when she was young. Coincidentally, she was born on the same day as me. I don’t look like my parents. But it was just a lack of resemblance; no one had ever suspected that a dramatic “switched at birth” scenario could happen to us. But Dad secretly did a DNA test. The results were a blow to the head. The parents I had called Mom and Dad for over twenty years weren’t mine. My biological parents were a couple of scholars I had never met. My real last name should be Yeager. The true Hayes daughter was someone else. The person Ethan owed his gratitude to was someone else. The moment I realized this, I suddenly felt a sense of relief. Everything with Ethan, even our meeting, was based on a mistake. I decided to swap our lives back. I made up my mind to leave this city and never see Ethan again. Chapter 4 The Yeagers—my biological parents—had arranged everything for me in San Francisco. The real Hayes heiress would return to the family after finishing her studies abroad. As an executive at Hayes Corp, I had to stay for a month after my resignation was approved to hand over my work. Ethan didn’t come home. I knew he was staying at the penthouse apartment Dad gave him for graduation. The view from the floor-to-ceiling windows there was beautiful, overlooking the entire city at night. When he renovated it, he kept a bedroom and walk-in closet just for me, promising he wouldn’t bring anyone else up there. Back then, at eighteen, I naively thought that one day I would move into the master bedroom. But now, it welcomed its real mistress. Ethan didn’t know I was leaving the family. He thought my resignation was just a tactic to force him to change his mind. Dad wanted to transfer me to the Hayes branch in San Francisco and promised that I would always have a share of his inheritance. I refused. I contacted Liam, a senior from my university days who was doing well in San Francisco, and asked him to recommend me for a job. Liam took advantage of a business trip to New York to meet me. Talking about our field, we hit it off. The atmosphere was harmonious. Liam joked that with my experience as a Hayes executive, I could get a job anywhere. Amidst our laughter, my gaze inadvertently swept toward the restaurant entrance, and I froze. It was Ethan. Serena stood beside him, her makeup exquisite, clinging affectionately to his arm. Ethan saw me at the same time. His face darkened instantly. He shook off Serena and stormed over to me. “What are you doing here?” When he saw clearly that the person sitting opposite me was Liam, his face got even uglier. Serena, not understanding the tension, smiled and took Ethan’s arm again. “Harper is on a date too? What a coincidence. Is this your boyfriend?” Her smile was gentle, but her eyes were full of hostility. Liam looked slightly awkward but braced himself to greet Ethan politely. I remembered then—Liam had pursued me in college. Ethan had warned him with righteous indignation: “Don’t harass my sister! I have to personally approve her future boyfriend, and you aren’t even close!” Before I could speak, Ethan yanked me up, his eyes full of aggression. “Harper Hayes! Is this all you’ve got? Finding this kind of second-rate guy just to provoke me?” My eyes reddened with anger. I wanted to say, Insult me all you want, but show some respect to my friend. But meeting his cold, disdainful gaze, I suddenly couldn’t say a word. No matter how I explained, I would only look more pathetic in his eyes. Why humiliate myself? Liam didn’t take the bait. He explained gently, “You misunderstand. I’m just meeting Harper to talk about work.” “Work?” Ethan scoffed coldly. “Let me remind you, you are a director and executive at Hayes Corp. If you leave, there’s a non-compete clause. You can’t go to a competitor anytime soon. I won’t make an exception for you on this.” I gritted my teeth, unwilling to tangle with him further. I nodded expressionlessly. “Understood.” Ethan paused, frowning as if he wanted to say more. But Serena laughed charmingly, shook his arm, and whined. “Come on, Ethan, I’m starving. Harper is a grown woman, it’s normal to have a boyfriend. Let’s not disturb their date.” She looked like a caring sister-in-law, but the chill in her eyes was impossible to ignore. Hearing she was hungry, Ethan let it go and led her into their reserved private room.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “389214”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

I always thought Liam hated my guts. That’s why, when I was dragged into a dead-end alley by a gang of thugs, I didn’t even call him for help. I was sent to the hospital covered in bruises and blood. The doctor asked me sympathetically if I had any last words for my family. “Tell Liam Sterling I’m dying, and I won’t bother him anymore.” Three years into our marriage, Liam had asked for a divorce 99 times. He even drugged me and sent me to another man’s bed just to get rid of me. My death would finally set him free. But I never expected what happened next. At my funeral, Liam, eyes bloodshot, decapitated those thugs to bury with me. His hands stained with blood, he threw away his cancer diagnosis with trembling fingers. Then, he swallowed a whole bottle of sleeping pills and lay quietly in my coffin. “Cece, I’m coming with you.” When I opened my eyes again, I was back on the day Liam asked for a divorce for the 99th time. He looked down, tossing the divorce papers at me. “My new girl is pregnant. She’s demanding a title. Don’t be a dog in the manger. Just sign it.” I tore the papers to shreds without hesitation. Red-eyed, I hugged him tight. “Bullshit! You didn’t tell me you were sick. Do you think dying alone in silence makes you cool?” … Liam was stunned, looking up at me. A flicker of light appeared in his beautiful eyes, then quickly faded. He lit a cigarette, sitting lazily on the sofa, sneering. “Cece, you’ve been watching too many soap operas, haven’t you?” His smile was indifferent as he deliberately blew a smoke ring into my face. “I got bored of you a long time ago.” “Our relationship is dead. Let’s part on good terms and make room for my new love.” The strong smell of smoke assaulted my nose. It made me want to cough. I had to admit, Liam knew me well. He knew I hated the smell of smoke, so he deliberately used it to provoke me when asking for a divorce. I printed out the digital copy of his cancer diagnosis. Red-eyed, I threw it at him. “Then tell me, what is this?” His gaze slowly fell on the paper, his expression blank, devoid of emotion. After a long while, he scoffed. He tore it into pieces. “Where did you forge this fake medical report? Late-stage cancer? Cece, if you don’t want a divorce, just say so. Why curse me?” He threw his hand up, and the paper scraps fell like snow. Liam was done. “If you tore up the divorce agreement, there are more. When you figure it out, print one and sign it yourself.” “My girl is waiting for our date. I don’t have time for you.” With a lazy expression, he got up to leave. I hesitated for two seconds, then chased after him. “Liam Sterling, don’t think you can get rid of me.” “You want a divorce? I won’t sign. Let’s see what you can do about it.” I started playing the rogue. Liam paused, leaving two cold words: “Suit yourself.” So, I started my shameless stalking mode. When Liam went to a company meeting, I waited at the office entrance. When he drove to date his new love, I took a taxi to tail him. “Driver, can you go faster? Follow that car in front.” The driver glanced at me in the rearview mirror. “Miss, that young couple looks so in love. Why are you stalking them?” I gritted my teeth. “That man is my husband.” The driver immediately looked sympathetic, straightened up, and patted his chest. “Don’t worry. I guarantee we won’t lose them.” They stopped at the entrance of a shopping mall. 2 Liam got out first, went around, and opened the passenger door. A young girl threw herself into his arms. Talking and laughing, they walked into the mall arm in arm. I bit my lip. Even knowing he was acting, my heart still stung. I remembered in my past life, Liam provoked me like this too. To rush me into agreeing to the divorce. He even brought the girl to our marital bed, stripped naked, and cuddled with her to show off their love to me. That was when my heart completely died. I signed the divorce papers, ready to move out and find a place, but I was dragged into a dead-end alley by a group of thugs. They humiliated me, treating me roughly like a toy. Severe pain shot through me as they tore out half my hair. My teeth felt like they were knocked out because they smashed my head with a brick from the roadside. Dizzy and dazed, I remembered the year our love was purest. Liam held me gently and set his number as the emergency contact on my phone. “Cece, if you’re in danger, call me first. I’ll always be there.” I struggled to find Liam’s number, but hesitated the moment I was about to dial. I remembered his disgusted look. Maybe he was flirting with his new love and didn’t want to be disturbed by me. Later, even when I was bruised all over, sent to the hospital, and critically ill, I still didn’t contact Liam. It became our eternal farewell. Now, across an intersection, Liam had his arm around the girl’s waist, chuckling in her ear, saying something. He glanced in my direction occasionally. I steeled my heart, got out of the car, and rushed toward them. Sensing my blatant stare, Liam and the girl paused, looking back at me strangely. “Babe, didn’t you say you’d divorce that old hag at home soon? Why is she chasing us again?” Liam’s gaze slowly fell on me, frowning, but he said nothing. He seemed to be waiting for an explanation from me. I smiled and shrugged. “Don’t mind me. Carry on.” I remembered Liam’s new love. Her name was Ivy. She looked innocent and cute, completely different from a shrew like me. Since six months ago, when Liam started frequently asking for a divorce, he was with Ivy every time he stayed out all night. Seeing me sticking to them like a band-aid. Ivy felt uncomfortable, frequently looking back at me. She hugged Liam’s arm and whined. “Babe, is your wife crazy?” “Why does she keep following us? Is she sick?” Liam finally couldn’t take it anymore, turning back to stare at me coldly. “Cece, you’re scaring my girl.” He shielded her behind him, afraid I would hurt her. But six years ago. He shielded me just like this, regardless of everything. He watched the stars with me, went to the desert with me, and saved the last sip of water for me when we were dying of thirst. Even when I was entangled with my ex-boyfriend and betrayed him many times. He still loved me. In my past life, I couldn’t understand. Could such a devoted person suddenly change his heart? So I went crazy, aiming my jealous gaze at that young, beautiful girl, Ivy. Jealousy makes people mad. It blinded me to Liam’s intentions. But now I knew the whole story. I crossed my arms, admiring Liam’s acting, and suddenly laughed. “Liam, your acting is still a bit lacking. Trying to fool me is actually kind of hard.” 3 Liam withdrew his gaze, saying nothing. He lowered his head and kissed Ivy on the lips. The girl blushed instantly, looking up at him shyly, her eyes full of joy. I froze in place, my face pale. Liam looked at me with a calculating gaze, naturally putting his arm around the girl’s waist. “Do you still think I’m acting now?” He even pulled up a hotel reservation on his phone and shoved it in my face. “Look clearly. I really fell in love with someone else. I changed.” “Cece, stop thinking I’m putting on a show for you. It makes you look narcissistic.” Seeing my silence, Liam invited me with a half-smile. “We’re getting a room tonight. If you’re interested, want to come watch?” Red-eyed with anger, I ran away on the spot. Seeing me storm into a taxi and disappear completely from the street. Liam withdrew his gaze, expressionlessly letting go of Ivy. “I’ll have the driver take you back.” Ivy’s rosy face turned pale instantly. She bit her lip hard, timidly tugging at Liam’s cuff. “Didn’t you promise to go shopping with me? And tonight we were going to…” Seeing Liam’s cold face, the girl’s voice grew smaller and smaller. “Miss Ivy, she’s gone. No need to act anymore.” “I’ll settle today’s fee as planned. Go shopping by yourself.” Hiding around the corner, I saw this scene and smirked. Liam didn’t know I was this smart. I pretended to get into the taxi, went a bit down the road, and had the driver turn back. I wanted to see with my own eyes how they would wrap this up. I thought they were really going to get a room, film a video, or even livestream it for me. Turns out Liam only had these few tricks. When Liam turned to leave, his face was a bit pale. His hand clutched his abdomen, making my face change drastically. No wonder he looked like he was holding on just now. Was the illness acting up? However, Ivy knew none of this. Still immersed in sadness, she turned alone to walk into the mall. “Ivy.” I called out to her. “Why is it you again?” The girl looked back in surprise. “How do you know my name?” I held my head high, smiling as I handed her the documents from the private investigator. “I know everything. Liam is sick, late-stage cancer. He didn’t want to drag me down, so he hired you to act and force me into a divorce.” Guilt surfaced on Ivy’s face. She stammered, “You’re lying! Liam and I are real. Otherwise, how would I be pregnant with his child?” She placed her hand gently on her swollen belly. There was clearly a little life in there. My smile deepened. “That child is your boyfriend’s, right? Definitely not Liam’s.” “Because he has never touched you.” The girl’s face turned as pale as paper. “How… how do you know all this?” In my past life, that girl came to find me, crying and saying Liam coughed up blood, asking me to go see him. She said the person Liam loved had always been me. Immersed in the anger and jealousy of betrayal, I thought she was taunting me. My gaze fell on her belly, my tone sharp. “If he really liked me, how could he get you pregnant?” “He hates my guts, right?” “I’ll agree to divorce him. You two dogs deserve each other.” Later I learned, that was the worst time Liam coughed up blood. He dyed the whole bathtub red. 4 He was sent to the hospital by his assistant. The assistant cried his eyes out, saying he wanted to call me. But he was stopped by Liam’s weak hand. “Don’t… don’t disturb her.” “She should forget me and have a new life.” In my past life, I didn’t know until after I died that Liam never betrayed me. He hid his love very, very deep. Even forcing me to divorce him before his death, he was doing everything he could to pave the way for my future. He was so good. How could I fail him? I took out a bank card and handed it to Ivy. “If I’m not wrong, you took this job because you needed money.” “Ivy, whatever Liam pays you, I’ll give you double. Only one condition—” “Next time Liam calls you, refuse him.” No one hates money. Ivy hesitated, took the bank card, and agreed. As I was leaving, she called out to me. “Cece, Liam really loves you. You’re very lucky.” “I also think, even if he only has a few months left, you should be together properly, spending every precious minute and second.” I smiled at her and turned to leave. Having handled all this, I took a taxi home, wanting to clarify things with Liam. I wasn’t afraid of him being a burden at all. I loved him. Even if only one day of life remained, I wanted to be with him. But I searched every room in the villa and didn’t see Liam. I called his assistant, who said he didn’t know either. Liam didn’t let the driver follow him and went out alone. Panicked and scared, afraid he had an accident alone outside, I searched for him like a madwoman. I searched all his favorite places, but no one was there. Until I went to the place we first met. Liam was indeed there. He was leaning alone under the big locust tree by the river, staring blankly, smoking. His eyes were pale, occasionally showing pain, his other hand pressing hard against his abdomen. I knew, he must be hurting again. “Let’s go. To the hospital.” Holding back sobs, I reached out to pull him. Liam didn’t expect me to be there and froze for a moment. Just for a second, then he sneered and threw off my hand. “Cece, aren’t you annoying?” “I told you, I hate you the most. Can you stop being so thick-skinned, always hanging around me?” I watched his mouth open and close. I didn’t hear a word. I only saw his lips were so pale they had no color at all. I lost control of my emotions and hugged him again. “Liam, didn’t you say? In sickness and in health, you want to be with me.” “Why, why are you pushing me away?”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “389213”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

My flight was going down. In those final moments of despair, the flight attendants announced that signal service had been restored. I didn’t call my boyfriend, Ethan. Instead, I stared at the group chat. It was flooded with screenshots of Ethan begging Lily to change her flight. Ethan, usually so cold and composed, sounded desperate in his texts. [Lily, I can’t lose you. Please change your ticket. Please?] I watched their conversation tick past 999+ messages. I closed my eyes and dialed my best friend, Sarah. “Sarah, the plane is going down. I’ll watch over you from up there. Have a happy life.” I hung up amidst her agonizing screams. I transferred every cent in my bank account to her. The chocolate I’d bought for my marriage proposal to Ethan shattered in the roar of the explosion, turning to ash along with me. Ethan didn’t know. The seat he begged Lily to give up… she gave it to me. Chapter 1 My soul floated in mid-air, looking down at the scorched earth. The roar of the explosion still echoed in my ears. In the blink of an eye, I was transported to the arrivals hall where Ethan was picking up Lily. She threw herself into Ethan’s arms, tears streaming down her face. Her long lashes cast shadows on her cheeks, her voice soft and trembling. “Ethan, your premonition was real. Thank God I listened to you.” “Ethan, you almost lost me.” Her voice broke as she buried her face deeper into his chest. Ethan held her tight, his trembling hands soothing her back, celebrating his beloved’s survival. After a long while, she looked up from his embrace. “It’s such a pity I missed your birthday. I’ll make it up to you.” Ethan’s voice was choked with emotion. “It doesn’t matter. I’m lucky enough just to have you.” Lily’s fans were moved to tears, raising their phones to capture this “beautiful” moment. They were ecstatic that their goddess had returned safely. And they sighed in sympathy for the tragedy of the previous flight. Reporters, who had been waiting, rushed forward. “Miss Lily, we heard you changed your flight because of Mr. Sterling’s sixth sense. Can you tell us more?” She pulled away from Ethan’s embrace and looped her arm through his. “I was originally booked on the previous flight so I could celebrate Ethan’s birthday. But he insisted he had a nightmare, an omen, and begged me to change it.” “He sent over 999+ messages. Seeing him so worried, I decided better safe than sorry. I never expected this to happen. A moment of silence for the victims. May they rest in peace.” She bowed to the cameras. Then she showed a screenshot of Ethan’s messages. [Lily, I can’t lose you. Change the ticket, okay?] [Please, just listen to me.] The fan groups went wild online. “My goddess Lily is so kind. Thank fate for letting us keep her. RIP to the victims.” “So CEO Sterling is basically Lily’s savior? OMG, marry him! Marry him!” “The Universe is literally forcing them together. It would be a crime if they don’t date.” The reporter extended the microphone to Ethan. He usually hated speaking to the media, but this time, his answer was incredibly earnest. “I thank God, I thank my parents looking down from heaven, I thank my intuition, and I thank Lily for listening. This is the best birthday gift I’ve ever received.” A passerby walked past. “Who’s that? Oh, Ethan Sterling from Sterling Corp. But I thought his girlfriend was named Maya? Weird, maybe I remembered wrong.” No one pays attention to the voice of a passerby. Just like me—just a passerby on their road to romance. Perhaps due to my lingering obsession, my soul was tethered to Ethan’s side. When the crowd dispersed, his assistant walked up and asked quietly, “Mr. Sterling, do we still need to wait for Miss Maya?” His eyes froze for a second, as if he had just remembered me. Right. I was supposed to be on this flight too—the safe one. He checked his phone. No calls, no texts. A hint of anger surfaced on his calm face. Lily chimed in at the perfect moment. “Did my sister not mark herself safe? Oh, that’s so worrying.” Hearing this, Ethan put away the phone he was about to use to call me. “She’s always been immature. I’ve spoiled her too much. It’s time she learned a lesson. Let’s go.” He opened the car door for Lily, hand guarding her head, fixed her dress, and helped her in. Lily turned back with an apologetic face. “Ethan, is Maya upset because she saw you picking me up?” “Maybe I should call and apologize. I feel terrible making her misunderstand.” Ethan’s thin lips pressed into a line. After a moment, he spat out one word. “Fine.” Surprise flashed across Lily’s face, quickly replaced by hidden resentment. Listening to the airport news broadcast, she seemed to remember something and quickly dialed my number. Naturally, it didn’t connect. When she tried to redial, Ethan spoke coldly. “Forget it. She’s throwing a tantrum. It has nothing to do with you.” He ordered the driver to move. I looked for even a trace of worry on his face. But I found nothing. Chapter 2 It was expected. You get used to disappointment eventually. Just like he got used to “teaching me lessons.” He never understood that pain always hurts, no matter how many times you feel it. Ethan had forgotten that to teach me a lesson, he had already blocked my number. That’s why I couldn’t get through to him on the plane. Being with him meant constant “lessons.” If I delayed him buying a gift for Lily, I needed a lesson. If I made him late for Lily’s show, I needed a lesson. If I didn’t like him going to care for a sick Lily in the middle of the night, I needed a lesson. If I stopped Lily from cutting a rose from my Valentine’s bouquet, I needed a lesson. If I refused to give my cat to Lily, I needed a lesson. Teachers used to say if you learn your lesson, you get a reward. But they never said how many lessons it takes to be “good.” My reward never came. Now, death was my final lesson. Ethan took Lily back to his villa. There was a permanent room for Lily there. Lily was the Sterling family’s foster daughter. Later, she found her biological mother—my stepmother. Lily left the Sterling family without hesitation and became my father’s stepdaughter. All because her feelings for her “brother” Ethan weren’t just sisterly. But Ethan didn’t see it that way. He thought she left to repay her birth mother, while still honoring her foster parents and loving her brother. To him, she was loyal and grateful. Plus, since we were now step-sisters, we should get along. I met Ethan in college. I once asked him, if he had feelings for Lily, we should break up. I didn’t want to be the villain. He didn’t even hesitate. He told me it was purely sibling affection. Lily was just a bit clingy because she was spoiled. His eyes were so certain. Even now, as Lily walked out of the shower in a sheer, ultra-short silk nightgown, braless, carrying a glass of warm milk into his study, he didn’t suspect this “sibling” bond had rotted. Before Lily could speak, the doorbell rang. It was Ethan’s childhood friend, Caleb. He started teasing immediately. “Look at you, the Great Prophet.” “We should market this. You’d go viral.” “Telepathy between lovers, snatching your girl from the Grim Reaper. So romantic.” Ethan frowned, his dark eyes disapproving. “Stop talking nonsense. I just had the same nightmare I had when my parents died. I thought of Lily. It’s not that deep.” He emphasized, “Besides, my conscience is clear. We are just siblings.” Caleb looked at him like he was an idiot. “Bro, that’s the excuse you use to trick Maya. Don’t try to gaslight your best friend.” The air went silent. Caleb straightened up, looking incredulous. “You… you gaslighted yourself?” He grabbed Ethan’s left hand, revealing his wrist. A glittery hair tie was wrapped around it. “You’re wearing Lily’s hair tie and telling me you’re just siblings?!” Ethan denied it instantly. “This is Maya’s.” Caleb sighed. He tried to find the Instagram Story Lily had posted. I knew the one. It was the day of my girls’ night out. Spouses were invited. Ethan bailed on me because Lily had a performance, and as her “brother,” he had to be there. That night, Lily posted a photo of Ethan’s hand wearing that hair tie. Caption: [Thanks for satisfying my possessiveness.] She deleted it quickly. I knew she posted it just for me to see. Chapter 3 Caleb couldn’t find the post, but he said firmly, “If you don’t believe me, ask Lily.” Ethan was unwavering. “There must be a misunderstanding. Lily and I are family.” Caleb patted his shoulder, looking disappointed. “You are hopeless. If Maya doesn’t leave you, it’s because you saved the world in a past life.” Hearing “leave,” Ethan looked like he heard something terrifying. “Impossible.” Caleb shook his head, took Ethan’s phone, and found a fan-edit of the airport reunion. “Bro, watch this. If you still want to be with Maya, figure out how to explain this.” He scrolled through comments like “Marry immediately” and “Destiny.” His face darkened. See? I wasn’t the only one who thought they crossed the line. Ethan sounded confident, but after Caleb left, he was restless. He unlocked a sandalwood box and took out a carefully wrapped package. I was curious. When he opened it, it was a ceramic cup I had given him. Wait. It wasn’t the cup I gave him. The box was mine—it had my handwriting—but the cup inside was different. I gave him an ice-crackle glaze cup. This one had gold wire inlay. Ethan held the cup carefully, wiping it with a soft cloth. I saw a jade earring in his treasure box too. It looked like the one I lost. He locked everything back up. His emotions settled. He stood there for a moment, then walked toward my room. It was a guest room, but since I stayed over occasionally, it was practically mine. Someone was inside. Lily. Seeing Ethan enter, she explained nervously, “My room hasn’t been cleaned in ages, so I wanted to use Maya’s room for a bit.” But I saw she had thrown away everything that belonged to me. There was no trace of me left. Ethan noticed nothing. He paused, seemingly displeased, but his tone remained gentle. “Don’t take the internet comments seriously. Mom and Dad are gone; I don’t want to lose any more family.” Lily’s eyes turned red. “Ethan, I understand. I’ll stay by your side forever.” Ethan found nothing wrong with this. He closed the door for her. He missed the look of desperate obsession in Lily’s eyes. I followed Ethan back to his room. I didn’t want to sleep in his bed, so I curled up on the chaise lounge. I drifted into a dream. It was the Summer Carnival. Lily snatched the prize I won—a lantern—and ran toward Ethan. I stood under a pear tree, watching them drift further and further away. “Don’t go.” I woke up to Ethan talking in his sleep. He woke up too, wiping cold sweat from his forehead. He checked his phone, then went to the study to work. He was always like this. Stubborn. Never soft. I thought maliciously: What will you do when you remember you blocked me? When you realize I died on your birthday? But it didn’t matter anymore. I was too lazy to move. I realized I could drift further from him now. I turned over and went back to sleep. When I woke up again, Ethan’s phone was ringing. He put it on speaker. It was his assistant. “Mr. Sterling…” The assistant sounded cautious. Ethan was impatient. “Speak.” “Sir, there’s a life insurance policy for Miss Maya waiting for your confirmation regarding the flight accident.” His body swayed, but he steadied himself quickly. “Check again. It must be a mistake. Lily changed her flight, maybe the insurance didn’t update. It’s an error.” “But, Miss Maya…” Ethan cut him off. “Don’t bother me with these trivial errors. I pay you a high salary to handle details, not to waste my time.” “By the way, make sure Lily’s dance troupe gets set up properly.” The assistant mumbled an agreement and hung up. “Sorry to disturb you, Mr. Sterling. I’ll have someone else handle it.” I understood. My death was just a “trivial error.” Chapter 4 Watching Ethan’s trembling hand, maybe he wasn’t completely oblivious. I was starting to look forward to the moment he learned the truth. Lily appeared, interrupting the silence. “Ethan, are you worried about Maya? Don’t worry, she’s probably with Sarah.” She showed him her phone. It was Sarah’s Instagram story: a drawing of two cartoon figures hugging. Caption: [Taking you home.] We always sent that image to each other when we were sad. My eyes burned. Sarah must be heartbroken. On the plane, I recorded a digital will. I left everything to her. I only trusted her. I knew she would pick a resting place far away from these people. I’m sorry, Sarah. I can’t grow old with you. Ethan looked at the screen and visibly relaxed. Then he remembered something. He pulled the hair tie out of his pocket. “Lily, is this yours or Maya’s?” Lily looked unnatural for a split second. “Oh, I forgot. Maybe Maya left it in my room.” Ethan looked thoughtful and put the tie in a drawer. Lily bit her lip. “Ethan, can you come to the dance studio with me today?” “I already told my assistant. He’ll arrange everything,” Ethan said while tying his tie. Lily’s eyes filled with tears. “I just thought… if Mom and Dad knew I had my own troupe, they’d be so happy.” Ethan fell silent. His voice softened. “I’ll come by later.” Lily smiled. He couldn’t get his tie right, so he ripped it off. “Ethan, let me help.” She took the tie in her hands. Ethan stared at her hands, zoning out. I remembered once, I helped him with his tie. The silk wrapped around my wrist, and he lost control. He didn’t leave the house all day, almost missing a major negotiation. Afterward, he told me, “Maya, don’t come over for a while. You’re a distraction. I need to clear my head.” I held back my tears. During his “cooling off” period, Lily posted photos of him watching car races with her. Caption: [My brother taking a break for me.] [Relaxing with you, not stealing your heart.] Whether Ethan loved me or not, Lily was always a thorn waiting to prick me. “No need.” Ethan snapped back to reality. He pulled the tie from Lily’s hands and closed the closet door. Lily stood frozen. I heard her whisper, “Maya, you’re dead. He’s mine sooner or later.” I answered her, Take him. I don’t want him anymore. Ethan burst out of the closet. “Maya!” I stared at him in horror, covering my mouth. Can… can he hear me? That’s scary. He didn’t find me. His expression fell. Finally, he took out his phone. He realized I was still on his block list. He seemed relieved, probably finding an excuse for my silence. He unblocked me and called. Silence. Naturally. My SIM card had turned to ash along with me. He tried three times, then called Sarah. Sarah sounded nasally. She must have been crying for days. “What?” Unused to Sarah’s coldness, Ethan frowned. “Put Maya on.” “Rude. Maya doesn’t want to see you.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “389212”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

I am an assassin. My target this time is the genius hacker known as “Keyboard.” The mission dragged on with zero leads, so I went to a bar to drown my sorrows. One thing led to another, and I accidentally slept with a repressed, buttoned-up nerd. I planned to ghost him immediately, but Ethan Clarke stuck to me like gum on a shoe. I tracked the IP address all the way to Keyboard’s hideout. The man I’d been sleeping next to every night was sitting in front of the computer, his expression calm behind his black-rimmed glasses: “So, the person you want to kill… is me?” Chapter 1 I woke up feeling like I’d been hit by a truck. Looking at the young man sleeping stiffly beside me, I felt a bolt of lightning hit my brain. He… he looked way too young! No wonder he was so clumsy last night… it was his first time. I shivered, trembling as I reached for his folded coat to check his wallet. The moment I saw the ID, I let out a long breath. Ethan Clarke. Nineteen. Thank God he’s legal. He must have Asian genes; no wonder he doesn’t crack. I have a colleague in the Organization like that—you can never tell her age. Speak of the devil, my comms device suddenly vibrated. I grabbed my scattered clothes while putting in my earpiece and walking out. Vesper’s calm voice came through the line: “Lilith, Alta Finance’s trading system was breached by Keyboard again. We tracked the intruder’s IP.” “It’s the Main Computer Science Building at Leyton Tech.” I groaned. “Can you guys be faster next time? Do you know how long I’ve been stuck here?” “This is the result of five people working non-stop,” Vesper said flatly. She continued, “The attack was routed through an internal research account… We suspect Keyboard is highly likely a professor at Leyton Tech.” “Got it. I’ll figure it out.” I sighed, unable to stop myself from complaining. “You don’t know how unlucky I was last night. These Ivy League types… you really can’t judge a book by its cover…” Chapter 2 My name is Lilith. I’m a member of the international assassin organization “X.” Unlike my colleague who uses the codename “Vesper,” I only have the name Lilith. Abandoned at birth, the Organization raised me and molded me into a qualified killer. Not long ago, I took a contract worth five million dollars. The target: A hacker named Keyboard. Keyboard is infamous on the dark web. He single-handedly breached the intranet of Trans-Pacific Bank, leaking the secret accounts of dozens of politicians. Rumor has it that incident implicated diplomats from three countries, causing the Finance Minister of a certain island nation to “resign due to illness” and vanish. This time, the high bounty was posted because the client claimed Keyboard hacked Alta Finance’s main server. The client alleged Keyboard altered accounts and walked away with tens of millions. I’ve been on the East Coast for a whole week trying to find him! I even took a side job and zeroed a drug smuggler just to pass the time. But days passed, and intel on Keyboard? Jack squat. The Organization was useless, and the client was playing dead. Last night, my mood hit rock bottom. I walked into a dive bar to drink. Who knew I’d end up in bed with some random nerd? The kid looked like a straight-A student, but once the clothes came off… let’s just say he was built. The terrifying part? He was a virgin. All equipment, no technique. Thinking about last night still gives me shivers. The last time I was this exhausted, I spent three nights fighting mercenaries in the Amazon. Thinking of Ethan’s sleeping face before I left, I felt even more annoyed. Once Keyboard is dead, I am never coming back to the East Coast! Chapter 3 Wearing a white sundress, I walked into the computer lab at Leyton Tech, trying my best to blend in as a normal college student. In my backpack, alongside a textbook, was my trusty P226. On the podium stood a spirited old man, Professor Breen. He was the Vice Dean of Computer Science and the Organization’s prime suspect. I planned to observe him closely, but the lecture sounded like alien language to me. As I listened, my head started to droop… “You there—yes, you in the white dress. Explain the applicability of Dijkstra’s algorithm in graphs with negative weights.” I jolted upright to see Breen frowning at me. Dijk… what? I couldn’t even spell that. Panic rising, I frantically tapped the thigh of the guy sitting next to me under the table. Suddenly, my hand was grabbed. I turned my head and realized the person holding my hand was… him! The kid with the terrible technique! Damn it, he’s a student at Leyton Tech? He quickly scribbled something on a notepad and slid it in front of me. I stammered as I read it: “Uh… Dijkstra is not applicable for graphs containing negative weight edges…” “Fine. Stop reading.” Breen rolled his eyes, deciding to let me off. The old man raised an eyebrow at Ethan. “Ethan, is this your girlfriend? Unexpected. I thought you were—” “Yes.” “No!” We spoke at the same time. Whispers broke out across the classroom. Breen shrugged, addressing the class. “Let me teach you a pickup line. You can tell your future partner: My love for you is like Dijkstra in graph theory—globally optimal…” Chapter 4 After class, I tried to bolt, but Ethan grabbed my wrist. I had a hundred ways to drop him, but I’d probably be arrested for assaulting a student. I forced a smile. “Sorry, classmate, I don’t know you. Can I help you?” Ethan frowned slightly. “Why did you leave without saying goodbye? Lilith.” Damn it. Alcohol really is the enemy. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Ethan pushed up his glasses, his tone still perfectly monotonous. “That night on Kendall Street, you suddenly hugged me—” “Enough!” I raised my voice, incredulous. “Do you expect me to take responsibility for you?” “Did studying rot your brain? Ask anyone here. It was a one-night stand. Who acts like this?” A girl with freckles next to us poked me. She whispered, “Ethan is a PhD candidate under Professor Breen and the TA for this class… do you want to fail?” I took a deep breath and clenched my fists. The dark-haired man in front of me rolled up the sleeves of his cardigan and naturally helped me pack my brand-new textbook. Ethan looked at me quietly. “Lilith, let’s talk in private.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “389211”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

After my parents’ divorce, my younger brother chose to live with Dad, who got all the assets. I was left with my destitute Mom. Who knew Dad would suddenly go bankrupt and end up in prison, while Mom started a company and made a fortune? Consumed by jealousy and hatred, my brother pushed me off a high-rise building, killing me instantly. When I opened my eyes again, I was back on the day of the divorce. This time, my brother grabbed Mom’s hand and declared, “I love Mommy the most. I want to live with her.” I cheered internally. Perfect. I never wanted to relive that hellish life anyway! Chapter 1 My parents slapped the divorce papers on the table. My brother, Tyler, immediately rushed over and hugged Mom’s arm. “I love Mommy the most. I want to live with her.” Dad frowned, looking at Tyler with concern. “Ty-Ty, listen to me. Mom doesn’t have any money. You won’t have a good life with her. Stay with me, let Excess go with your Mom.” Mom nodded. “Excess is tough. She can handle it. Let her come with me, and Ty-Ty can stay with his Dad.” “Excess” was their nickname for me. My real name is Emily, but to them, I was just the extra one. They had me when they were barely out of high school, way too young. They dumped me on my grandma in the countryside and didn’t take me back until I was eight. So, they had zero affection for me and didn’t care about my opinion. But since Tyler knew that Dad ended up in prison in our past life, there was no way he’d choose to suffer with him. Sure enough, he pressed his lips together and shook his head firmly. Dad wouldn’t give up. “Ty-Ty, listen to Dad. Dad has money. Dad can give you a good life. You’ll suffer with Mom.” But Tyler turned his head, clutching Mom’s arm with unusual determination. “No! Rich or poor, I want to be with Mommy. I love Mommy.” “Mommy’s good boy.” Mom looked touched. Dad sighed helplessly. “If you’ve made up your mind, Dad respects your decision. But if you have any problems, Ty-Ty, you tell Dad immediately.” Tyler nodded, hiding the excitement in his eyes. He glanced at me and gave a malicious smile. “Sister must be happy. You get to live the good life with Dad now!” I nodded blankly, but inside, I was popping champagne. Perfect. I never have to experience that living hell with Mom again. Tyler had no idea what dark secrets lay behind Mom’s “successful company.” That road wasn’t easy. I looked at Tyler with complicated eyes. “You made your choice. Don’t regret it.” “Hmph, how could I regret being with Mom? You just make sure you don’t come crying to me later!” With that, he held Mom’s hand and walked out without looking back. Watching their retreating figures, I couldn’t help but recall the misery of my past life. Mom didn’t know how to do chores and refused to work low-paying jobs. Living with her, I had to do all the housework and even collect cans at night to buy groceries for the next day. Less than a year into high school, Mom forced me to drop out because she couldn’t afford tuition. Later, I washed dishes and waited tables to save up for tuition myself, but Mom got addicted to gambling. We had to move constantly to hide from debt collectors… “Emily, I’m warning you. I’m living at your Auntie Evelyn’s house now. She’s a public figure. When we go in, lose that trashy look!” Dad’s impatient voice pulled me back to reality. Seeing the disgust in his eyes, I really wanted to ask: if you hate me so much, why did you have me? At home, I was like a little maid—insecure, sensitive, shrinking. Tyler was the treasured prince—lively and confident. Compared to him, of course I looked “trashy.” “Also, I’ve fired all the servants at your Auntie’s house. You’ll do all the chores. You like doing them anyway,” Dad said matter-of-factly. A trace of mockery flashed in my eyes. So Tyler is the young master who shouldn’t lift a finger, and I’m the born servant? Whatever. I never expected any love from them anyway. Soon, the car pulled into a mansion halfway up the hill within a gated community in Beverly Hills. Looking at the beautiful gardens along the way, I could barely blink. But seeing Dad’s fawning smile at the elegant woman at the door, I vaguely understood who really wore the pants in this house. Chapter 2 Auntie Evelyn turned out to be Evelyn Lawrence, the movie star I always saw on TV. Seeing a screen idol in person, I was nervous, but she showed unexpected kindness. As she led me inside, Auntie Evelyn patted my hand gently. “Don’t be nervous. This is your home now.” Seeing the sincerity in her eyes, my eyes felt hot. “Thank you.” Auntie Evelyn was truly a good person. She couldn’t have children due to an injury on set, so she sponsored many children in foster care. After I arrived, she didn’t make me do any chores. She gave me a large, sunny room and bought me lots of comfortable new clothes. Knowing I went to the worst public school, she transferred me to a prestigious private girls’ high school. The facilities and environment were superior, and the students were much more refined. I was overwhelmed with gratitude and swore to study hard so I wouldn’t let Auntie Evelyn down. I studied desperately at school and burned the midnight oil at home. My only entertainment was mimicking Auntie Evelyn’s acting. “A chicken can’t become a phoenix. You’re not as smart as Tyler. Why bother? Just drop out and get married. You’ll be even more worthless when you’re older.” Dad always mocked my efforts. I ignored him and charged forward blindly. Finally, after a semester of hard work, my name appeared on the top of the Honor Roll. I even won a city-wide award for a drama performance. When my homeroom teacher called to invite Dad to share his parenting tips, his jaw nearly hit the floor. Actually, I always had good grades when I was little, always top three. But after I was brought back at eight, my parents forced me to do all the chores. Cooking, dishes, laundry until midnight—how could I study? But now it was different. Auntie Evelyn’s support was my backbone! As I brought home more awards, Dad’s gaze softened. Once, Auntie Evelyn came to a parent-teacher conference, causing a sensation. Her industry friends and reporters praised me, saying I was as driven as she was in her youth, and that I had a bright future. Auntie Evelyn smiled and accepted it all. “The child is excellent on her own. I did very little.” Influenced by Auntie Evelyn, I took the art exams in my senior year and secured the top score in the city. Auntie Evelyn suggested I apply to the film academy in LA, saying she had connections. But Dad furiously vetoed it. “Film school costs a fortune! Does a village girl deserve that? No!” I knew Dad refused because he always looked down on me. And because Tyler’s grades were terrible now, he didn’t want me to outshine him too much. Chapter 3 Seeing my biological father’s firm opposition, Auntie Evelyn had to give up. She patted my head. “Academic route is fine too. Emily wants to study law, right? Stanford has one of the best law schools.” She had realized that Dad didn’t care about me, his daughter. He even held a strange malice toward me. But she was a dignified woman. Plus, Dad had saved her from a falling prop on set once. She treated Dad as her savior and rarely refused him. That’s why in my past life, she funded Dad’s company, making me think he was rich. As for Mom, Dad had been dissatisfied with her since meeting Auntie Evelyn. Mom was lazy and playful, so he encouraged her gambling addiction, then used it as grounds for divorce. I looked at the concerned Auntie Evelyn and thought it was okay. Film school would have been great with her resources, but it might take me away. I couldn’t bear to leave Auntie Evelyn. And I kept thinking about how she and Dad went bankrupt and to jail in my past life. Studying law might help. So the film school idea was dropped, and I focused on my academics. I knew Mom was lazy. Tyler wouldn’t last long with her. But I didn’t expect him to come back so soon, and in such a despicable way. One afternoon, Auntie Evelyn and I returned from lunch to find Tyler curled up at the gate, covered in bruises. Seeing us, he knelt and cried, tears streaming down his face. He said Mom had no money, they lived in the slums, and he got bullied by thugs on his way home from school. “Dad, please save me! If you don’t take me in, I’m dead.” “You’re Auntie Evelyn, right? Please have mercy. They said they’d kill me tonight. I can’t go back.” Dad was heartbroken. He helped him up, calling him “My precious Ty-Ty,” promising to call the police. Tyler hurriedly explained it was too dark to see their faces, begging Dad to just let him stay for a while. Auntie Evelyn frowned silently. I knew she saw through Tyler’s lies. She was an Oscar winner. Tyler’s acting and fake bruises were a joke to her. But Dad was adamant about keeping him, his tone leaving no room for argument. She reluctantly agreed. The night Tyler moved in, Dad stormed into my room, took all the electronics and expensive gifts Auntie Evelyn gave me, and gave them to Tyler. “Ty-Ty, that waste of space Emily doesn’t deserve these. They’re yours now.” He transferred Tyler to my private school and hired tutors for him. But I knew Tyler was swindling money from teachers and classmates. Living with Mom, he had learned to gamble, and he was addicted. Once, I saw Tyler going into a casino with some shady guys. He was not only fearless but pushed me away viciously. “Tell anyone and I’ll skin you alive!” I frowned. “You’re ruining yourself.” Tyler sneered. “None of your business. What right does a village maid have to lecture me?” “Good dogs don’t block the way. Get lost!” Actually, I didn’t want to manage him. I knew his addiction would grow until he caused a disaster. When that happened, Auntie Evelyn wouldn’t tolerate him. Tyler went to the casino more frequently, needing more money. He used every trick to get money from Dad, eventually even taking out online loans in Auntie Evelyn’s name. I couldn’t sit back anymore. One night, I blocked Tyler at his door, asking if he took out loans. Tyler turned the tables, throwing a loan agreement he took from my room in my face. “You borrowed money and blamed me? Emily, you’re worse than a pig!” Dad glanced at the paper and joined in. “You little slut, borrowing so much money! Fifty thousand! Come to the police station and turn yourself in!” I saw at a glance the agreement was fake; it didn’t even have a stamp. But Dad and Tyler wouldn’t listen, dragging me toward the door. Chapter 4 Just then, Auntie Evelyn came upstairs. “What is going on here?” “Auntie, Tyler gambled and took out loans behind your back. I confronted him, and he framed me.” I broke free and told the truth. Frowning at the self-righteous Tyler, Auntie Evelyn looked at Dad with dissatisfaction. “Joe, I have to say this. Both are your children. Why do you spoil Tyler and abuse Emily? Gambling and loans? Tyler has no future like this.” Dad jumped up. “That loser is lying! I’m her dad, I know! She did it! My Ty-Ty is a good boy!” “Besides, I’m their father. I decide how to treat them!” Auntie Evelyn got angry. “What does that mean? I can’t say a word in my own house?” Tyler forced his way in and stole my things. She was already unhappy. Dad’s words added fuel to the fire. “Joe Zhou, you live off me, and now you bring this lying ingrate into my house! Do you know what Tyler has been doing?” “I’ll tell you. He’s been scamming people and gambling. Debt collectors are calling my phone!” Tyler’s face froze. Exposed, he stopped pretending. “You’re rich anyway. What’s wrong with giving me some?” Dad’s face stiffened, then he agreed matter-of-factly. “Yeah, Ty-Ty is practically your son. What’s a little money?” Auntie Evelyn sneered. “I wouldn’t dare claim such an ingrate as a son.” I couldn’t stand their shamelessness anymore. “Are you crazy? Gambling and scamming are crimes! Why should Auntie Evelyn pay for Tyler’s mess?” Slap! Dad slapped me hard. “None of your business! You ungrateful brat, I should have drowned you in a bucket when you were born!” I covered my face, staring at him in disbelief. The skin bruised instantly. The burning pain and grievance forced tears from my eyes. Auntie Evelyn looked at my face with heartache, then turned and roared at Dad. “Are you insane? Taking it out on the child!” “I’m telling you, Tyler scammed forty thousand and borrowed fifty thousand in loans. It’s almost a hundred thousand. That’s a felony. Wait for him to go to jail!” Hearing this, Dad trembled in fear. He looked at Tyler in disbelief. “Ty-Ty, did you really borrow that much?” But Tyler, thinking there was no proof, kept arguing. “Impossible! Besides, it’s just a hundred grand. She can pay it. Why make a fuss?” Auntie Evelyn trembled with rage. “Why should I pay?” “Get out! Joe, take him and get out!” She called the butler to throw their luggage out. Seeing she was serious, Dad and Tyler were dumbfounded. “You barren old hag! I hope you die tomorrow so I get your inheritance!” Tyler cursed viciously. Dad panicked and covered his mouth, looking at Auntie Evelyn fawningly. “Evie, Ty-Ty is just a kid. Don’t hold it against him. You have the money. Just pay it. Why be so stingy?” Auntie Evelyn was thoroughly disappointed. She hugged me and pointed at the door. “Get out! I never want to see you again!”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “389210”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

When I finally reunited with my childhood sweetheart, Alexander “Xander” Sterling, he had a “Lucky Girl” by his side. She was the kingdom’s darling, caring for him deeply, her love rooted deep. Seeing me nestled in Xander’s arms, she cursed me as a seductress, stealing her beloved. “You’re just a passing fancy for Xander. How can you compare to our five years of history?” I chuckled silently. “Sorry, darling. I’m not the new fling. I’m the one he never forgot.” Chapter 1 The day Xander brought me back to the Kingdom of Zephyr, it coincided with the Mid-Autumn Royal Banquet. The King of Zephyr led his court to welcome us at the palace gates. Xander’s black coat fluttered, his long sword dripping blood, radiating an aura that screamed “stay away.” I fearlessly wrapped my arms around his neck, a string of jade prayer beads winding through my fingers, leaving an ambiguous red mark on his porcelain-like neck. He bent down and lifted me up, submissive as a devotee. Everyone saw the person in the arms of the Duke of Sterling. Stunningly beautiful, dressed in light silk, hair soft and black, skin like porcelain. Wrapped in a white fox fur cape, half my face was hidden by the fluffy hood, revealing only my chin and exquisite lips. My entire being exuded a divine aura, untouchable, effortlessly drawing everyone’s gaze. The crowd curtsied to me, but one person didn’t bow, her tone displeased. “Where did this sickly beauty come from? Why does the King and all these powerful officials have to bow to her?” “Lady Tiffany, that is the most precious Princess of the Kingdom of Aethelgard, Seraphina. Her whole country worships her as a living goddess. She lives in a temple, sleeps on an altar, and enjoys the offerings of thousands.” “I heard the Princess can predict fortunes and summon wind and rain. She once resolved a decade-long drought…” “So what? I represent the luck of Zephyr! Everyone knows I’m the King’s lucky charm.” I lifted a corner of my hood, revealing my eyes, and looked at the speaker. She was slender, wearing a yellow silk dress. Oval face, bright eyes shifting, a golden phoenix hairpin slanted in her hair. Tiffany Tang, the eldest daughter of Zephyr’s Prime Minister. Though born of a concubine, she was the Tang family’s most presentable daughter. Rumor had it Tiffany was blessed with incredible luck. Everyone liked her. Being close to her could turn misfortune into fortune; many nobles owed her favors. She’d find silver when she stepped out, accidentally save disguised officials on the road, and businesses under her name only made profits. The most miraculous event was during the King’s autumn hunt. A stag nearly charged him, but the moment Tiffany appeared, its antlers snapped on their own. She was titled a Lady for her sheer luck and had been pampered ever since. Tiffany’s gaze fixed straight on Xander. “Xander, you’re finally back.” Xander gave her a lukewarm look. “Something the matter?” Meeting Xander’s eyes, she blushed, acting shy. “The King issued a decree yesterday for me to marry you.” Xander cast a cold, heavy stare at the King, curving his lips in a mockery mixed with indescribable ruthlessness. He scoffed lightly, his eyes sweeping over Tiffany blocking the way. “Move. The Princess gets cold.” The air froze instantly. Probably no one expected the Duke of Sterling to show zero face. Tiffany looked me up and down suspiciously. “Is she really that cold? I’ve seen plenty of girls feigning weakness.” Saying that, she reached out to lift my cape. Xander dodged her while holding me. She missed and dramatically fell to the ground. “Xander…” Xander’s cold, deep eyes swept over her, his posture holding me unchanged. “The Princess is royalty; she has no sister.” His chilly gaze moved to the Prime Minister. “Randomly climbing social ladders—is this how the Prime Minister teaches his family? Maybe you should kneel here and let the autumn wind clear your head.” With that, Xander held me and walked past Tiffany indifferently. My lips curved slightly. I pressed my forehead against Xander’s neck, lowering my lashes to look down at her. A fleeting eye contact. Tiffany’s face was pale; my eyes were full of smiles. There is a hierarchy between legitimate and illegitimate, let alone the heaven-and-earth difference between royalty and a noble’s daughter. The officials stayed silent, not daring to look back. They followed into the great hall, leaving Tiffany kneeling alone outside, the cold wind howling. Chapter 2 Xander took me straight to the head table. Behind us, gazes converged. After a while, Tiffany entered the hall wrapped in her father’s cloak, head bowed. The Prime Minister pleaded, “Tiffany offended the Princess and deserves punishment. But the autumn wind outside is piercing…” The King, pained, said, “Quick, let Tiffany take her seat.” After Tiffany sat down, I sensed her venomous stare. I didn’t care; let her look. There was a gold filleting knife on the table. I ran my fingertip along the sharp blade. Xander saw it but said nothing, only pulling my hand back and wrapping it in his palm. After a round of dishes, Tiffany said to Xander, “Xander, two years ago at the Mid-Autumn Banquet, we had this dish. I said I wanted to marry you in three years, and you didn’t object. Do you remember?” She threw a provocative look at me. I understood Tiffany’s intent. Using old history to provoke me. I tilted my head, looking at her with a “so what” expression. Xander glanced sideways. “So you like being rejected in public. If I’d known, I wouldn’t have saved you face back then.” Tiffany froze. I wasn’t surprised. Xander was never a “good” person. He didn’t worship gods; he dared to pin a goddess beneath him. Xander raised an eyebrow, mocking smile tugging at his lips. “I don’t like you. Stay away.” Too blunt. It sounded like a threat. The King couldn’t bear seeing Tiffany’s red eyes and tried to smooth things over fake-ly. “Xander, I know you’re straightforward, so I won’t blame you for your harsh words this time.” Relaying on the King’s support, Tiffany said, “Xander, did you go to Aethelgard for this Princess? We’ve known each other for five years. Does that bond really lose to her stealing you away halfway?” Xander was born incredibly handsome. Phoenix eyes slightly upturned, a languid laziness between his brows. enchanting but always unapproachable. All of Zephyr thought only Tiffany matched the Duke. Even the King thought so. Xander shot a sharp look, freezing Tiffany to the bone. She looked away guiltily. While Xander wasn’t looking, I reached for the gold knife again. A light slide. Blood welled from the cut, dripping down like red glaze on my pale fingertips. I secretly took the knife and hid it in my sleeve. Then I drank tea as if nothing happened. Just then, a mocking voice came from outside. “What nonsense is Miss Tang spouting? Don’t bind Xander with your wishful thinking. He hasn’t given you the time of day in five years. It’s not even dark yet; why are you dreaming?” A noblewoman in a deep blue official robe embroidered with gold entered. The Duchess of Sterling, Xander’s mother. I called out to her, “Auntie.” The Duchess looked at me, her gaze instantly softening. The slightly noisy banquet fell silent at her arrival. Tiffany bit her lip, pretending to be pitiful. “Then I am willing to give up the position of main wife and be a co-wife.” The Duchess scoffed. “Our Sterling household has no intention of finding two daughters-in-law.” The Prime Minister slammed the table, furious. “Duchess, that’s bullying.” The Duchess glanced nonchalantly at her bright red nails, then turned to the King on the high seat. “Xander and the Princess are childhood sweethearts. How can a latecomer compare? Though reunited after long, when the beloved arrives, irrelevant people should step aside. Your Majesty, don’t play matchmaker and stuff just anyone into the Sterling house.” Officials whispered, looking shocked. The matriarch of the Sterling house made it clear she didn’t want Tiffany. How would this arranged marriage end? The King hadn’t expected this, but his intent to matchmake was clear. “Duchess, Tiffany is Zephyr’s lucky daughter. I watched her grow up. Marrying into your house is a joyous event. Why refuse? My decree is issued; I won’t take it back.” “The Prime Minister’s eldest daughter, Tiffany Tang, will marry into the Sterling house as a co-wife on an auspicious day.” A crisp crack. The white jade cup was crushed mercilessly by Xander. Though Xander always had a smile, I knew he hated being controlled most. I looked at Tiffany. She thought she won, casting a triumphant look at me. I curved my eyes. Something to play with. Wanting to fight a royal daughter raised in schemes and plots? Tiffany, are you really ready? Chapter 3 Tiffany deliberately picked a moment when Xander left the table to say to me, “Do you really think you, the new fling, can replace me, the old love?” I chuckled softly. “What are you laughing at?” “Sorry. I’m not the new fling. I’m the old love.” I turned my prayer beads, the sound crisp, smiling lazily. “And you? You’re just something that can’t make it to the main stage.” The Duchess was my mother’s best friend. Xander and I were betrothed before birth. Later, my mother died, our countries fought, and I lost contact with Xander. Reuniting now was an opportunity I had plotted for years. A mere illegitimate daughter, where did she get this mysterious confidence to provoke me? My plain words seemed to hit a nerve, twisting Tiffany’s somewhat delicate features into ugliness. It was midnight when we arrived at the Sterling estate. On the way back, the Duchess cursed the foolish King the whole time. Xander carried me through the corridor. Passing a pear tree blooming like clouds, I tugged his collar to stop. I looked up with interest at the snowy tree. “What are you looking at?” Xander asked, looking down. I smiled and lifted my chin. Xander followed my gaze. Under the moonlight, a mottled brown snake was coiled on a branch, hissing, slowly creeping toward a clueless sparrow. Xander sighed with a smile. “You’re not cold anymore.” I coughed symbolically. Xander signaled the guard behind him. A flying knife shot straight out, piercing the snake’s head. The sparrow startled and flew away. I said somewhat sadly, “The snake could have had a full meal.” Xander’s brows were picturesque as he looked down at me. “Careful it doesn’t bite you.” Frowning, I leaned on Xander’s shoulder and instructed the guard, “Cut a cross on the seven-inch mark. It’s easier to peel the skin.” The guard looked at my retreating smiling face and shuddered for no reason. The maids lit the stove, burned silver charcoal, and lowered the layers of gauze curtains around the gold-thread bed. But curled under the quilt, I still felt cold all over. In the latter half of the night, I felt the bed dip. A hand reached under the covers, and the next moment, my cold feet fell into a warm palm. I propped myself up, but before I could speak, Xander’s addictive voice sounded. “Warming you up.” I rarely walked. My feet were well-kept, white and delicate like cold jade. A little carelessness would leave a red mark. Xander kneaded them like treasures, his palm covering my cold knees, protecting them with just the right pressure. “Princess, warm yet?” I reached out, wrapping my arms around his neck, innocent and pure. “Is the Duke seeking favor from this Princess?” Xander leaned in. The dim candlelight coated his face with a shadow, sharp and wickedly handsome. Suddenly, he grabbed my waist, one hand turning my chin. His warm breath sprayed on my neck, voice lowered. “Yes. Princess, reward your subject well.” With that, he pushed me into the bedding. For a moment, it felt like falling into soft clouds with nowhere to leverage. I closed my eyes tight. But Xander chuckled low and acted like a gentleman all night. Except for being a “bed warmer,” he did nothing. When I woke up, Xander wasn’t there. Only Anin was guarding me. She was brought from Aethelgard, serving me for five years. “Princess, the Duke prepared a hot spring for you. He said it relieves your cold sickness and helps your legs. Maybe with more soaking, the Princess can walk.” I nodded, and Anin easily lifted me in her arms. My leg disability was known to few. Being carried was something I was used to. The hot spring water misted up, red gauze floating. I crossed my arms, submerged in the steaming water. Suddenly, a noise outside. Anin got up quickly. “I’ll go check.” Not long after, the door was smashed open. Several servants barged in, and standing behind them was Tiffany. Cold air rushed in. I hugged my arms and moved deeper into the pool. Tiffany, dressed gaudily, paced in slowly. She curtsied respectfully to me, smiling with pursed lips. “I came today to move my things into the Sterling estate early. Heard the Princess was here, so I came to pay respects.” “Get out.” A wicked smile appeared on Tiffany’s lips. She sniffed the medicinal scent in the air, speaking sweetly. “Why doesn’t the Princess stand up? Can’t you?” She pulled a letter from her sleeve and waved it. “This is a letter from the Eldest Princess of Aethelgard. Turns out the Princess is a cripple who can’t walk. And you were meant to be a gift to someone else, but you tricked Xander into bringing you to Zephyr.” I looked up, my gaze turning cold. Winona… she was in league with Tiffany? Tiffany suddenly approached me. “Princess, why so distant? Why hide so far away? We need to look out for each other in the future.” Saying that, she reached out to grab me. Just as her hand was about to touch me, my eyes darkened. I grabbed her arm, my slender fingers finding a fatal pressure point through her clothes, and struck hard. Tiffany suddenly went numb, half her body twitching uncontrollably. The sharp pain from her shoulder made her crash to the ground, hair ornaments scattering everywhere. Pathetic. The sudden change scared her. Tiffany sat paralyzed by the pool, panic-stricken pupils reflecting the delicate girl behind the mist. Eyes hiding ruthlessness, with a faint smile, saying to her: “Get the hell out.” Tiffany scrambled up, grimacing. As she turned, she looked back, eyes widening as if she caught my secret. She pointed at my exposed white arm, gasping. “You don’t have a shougong sand mark!” (Note: A traditional mark of virginity). My face remained calm, but she laughed with increasing schadenfreude, shouting at me. “You lost your chastity long ago, yet you dare cling to Xander!” She shouted outside, “Someone come! Everyone get in here!” No one outside dared move. Tiffany’s voice grew harsh. “Dare you disobey me?” The servants looked at each other, heads bowed, shuffling in with eyes glued to the floor. I moved to the thickest part of the mist, sinking into the water to cover myself, arms crossed tightly. Anin had been gone for a long time. “You haven’t seen Aethelgard’s most noble Princess, have you? Come, open your eyes and look.” Tiffany smiled ambiguously. “Whoever sees the clearest, I’ll ask my father to promote you. Beautiful maids, houses, fields—you name it!” Greed stirred in the men. They looked up, gazes wandering. Behind the mist, snowy shoulders and jade-like skin were faintly visible. Someone wavered but was afraid. “This is… the most precious person raised by the power of a nation. We dare not…” “Nonsense! She’s just a high-class courtesan sent to please an enemy country! The Sterling house has strict morals. If others find out, the whole estate’s reputation will be ruined.” Tiffany seemed to think of something and smiled. How could she miss this chance? She turned to run out, shouting, “Aethelgard’s Princess is loose! Committing adultery with low-class men…” A sharp sound of a sword being drawn cut off Tiffany’s words. “You dare call this Duke low-class?” Then a loud slap. The Duchess was furious. “Bastard! Uncouth thing! What do you think my house is? Who let them in? Drag them out and execute them!” The door was kicked open, cold wind howling. Xander’s figure was tall and slender, radiating terrifying authority. The servants Tiffany brought were blinded on the spot. Three killed, one left covering his eyes, rolling on the ground screaming in blood. Xander walked slowly into the pool, placed the sword in my hand, and hugged my waist from behind. He guided me step by step back to the edge, looking down at the servant. “Princess, the fastest way to kill someone is to slit the throat.” He held me, his chest vibrating gently as he spoke. I nodded slightly. The next instant, Xander guided my hand to ruthlessly slash the man’s throat. I stared blankly at the red pool. The person behind me held my waist tight, protecting me. Wet hair outlined a graceful figure. Water droplets rolled down, dripping onto my shoulder like morning dew. Suddenly, my chest tightened. The smell of blood surged in my throat. I looked down and vomited a mouthful of black blood. Chapter 4 After Tiffany’s scene, I vomited blood on the spot, expelling the Cold Gu poison. I was sick for half a month before waking up. I remember the last time I was this sick was five years ago. My sister Winona fought me for power and personally broke my kneecaps. Later, fearing I’d regain power, she force-fed me cold medicine to ruin my body completely. Back then, Winona pinched my chin and told me a cruel truth: “You were a pawn from the start. A delicate gift raised with the highest standards by Father to pave the way for my brother.” From then on, I realized countless people around me wanted to harm me. If everyone wanted me dead, I had to fight for myself. I knew the value of biding my time. So I found a Cold Gu. After taking it, my body became weak and afraid of cold. The Wei family relatives used this to petition Father to hand over everything I had to Winona. After giving away immense power and wealth, I became fish meat on the chopping block in others’ eyes. Memories flashed by. I slowly opened my eyes, pinching the bridge of my nose, propping myself up against the headboard. Anin rushed over, kneeling by my bed, sighing in relief. “Princess, you’re finally awake.” I smiled faintly at her. “Made you worry.” Anin presented a secret letter, carefully watching my expression. “It’s from His Majesty.” I couldn’t be bothered to read it and tore it to pieces. My father favored sons over daughters and was shallow and incompetent. He was an unfavored prince back then. My mother was a general’s daughter. He obeyed her every whim to gain my grandfather’s favor. Using my grandfather’s power, he seized the throne. But once Emperor, he changed. He became close to Consort Wei’s relatives. After Mother died, Consort Wei took over the harem, and her children became the favorites. I became a knife in his hand, just like he used my mother. The people of Aethelgard believed in gods. I was the god he created. Under the guise of consolidating power, he pushed me onto the altar, making me bestow divine right upon him in front of the world. He gave me supreme theocratic power above kingship in name. Whatever he wanted to do, he used my mouth. No one dared oppose him. Gradually, those wolves staring at me thought I was done for. How could a crippled princess trapped in a cold, empty temple turn the tables? They relaxed their vigilance. My chance came. I used faith to bind hearts and cultivated claws in the court. Silently growing power, eroding the unpredictable court like termites. But my methods didn’t beat the seasoned Emperor. He found my rebellious streak. So when Consort Wei’s stupid son provoked the neighbor, attracting enemy iron cavalry to the city walls, he didn’t hesitate to offer me as a gift to the enemy army. That day, when the maid told me to run, it was too late. I drank the drugged tea, legs too weak to stand, consciousness fading on the altar. Winona, with her innocent face, gloated. “Don’t blame me, sister. What if you resisted and hurt him? We couldn’t afford that.” Indeed. Nothing showed sincerity like offering Aethelgard’s most precious goddess. Before leaving, she stuffed a green porcelain bottle in my hand, giggling that if I couldn’t bear it, this poison would help me end it. I smiled mockingly at her retreating figure. She was going to be disappointed. Because I had planned this day for a long time. I was the one who encouraged my brother to deploy troops. Consort Wei’s son was pedantic and arrogant since childhood. A little trick provoked him to challenge the neighbor. But the neighbor had quietly submitted to Zephyr two years ago. So the person coming to “collect the gift” today would be a Zephyr official—my childhood sweetheart, Duke Alexander “Xander” Sterling. Through the haze, I saw a tall figure enter the temple. Footsteps approached, step by step up the high platform hung with prayer lanterns. The next moment, I was lifted. He kissed my temple, whispering, “I’m here.” I looked up, weak. “Insolent.” I felt his breath hitch. He laughed low, hoarse and bewitching. “This is insolent? What to do then? This subject wants to blaspheme the god. What is the crime?” His voice made my heart tremble. He held my waist. The next instant, we rolled onto the altar. With ancestors behind us and gods painted on the ceiling, we threw propriety and status to the wind, wantonly entangled under thousands of lights. Anin called me several times before my thoughts returned. She brought a cup of hot tea and took a porcelain bottle from her waist. “Princess, time for medicine.” “Not taking it.” Anin froze, looking up at me in confusion. I fingered my prayer beads and flashed her a brilliant smile. The whole house praised my loyal servant—it was Anin who found the Duchess and Xander to solve the crisis that day. But no one expected Anin to die the day I woke up. Those who saw Anin said she died of a slit throat, deep and instant. The room was quiet. Hearing I wouldn’t take the medicine, Anin nodded. When she put the tea back and turned around, I held the gold filleting knife to her neck. She turned, seeing me standing straight before her, and finally couldn’t help mocking, “So the Princess isn’t crippled. You’ve been faking it. Of course, how could the legitimate Princess be a weak lamb?” I hooked my lips, looking innocent. “Born in the center of power, raised on schemes, even if I wanted to be a lamb, I couldn’t.” Anin was sent by Consort Wei to monitor me. She reported my every move for five years. Not long after she fell in a pool of blood, two figures in black landed at the door. I sat by the bed, wiping the blood from the gold knife with a handkerchief. Softly: “I’ll rely on you two from now on.” The Long siblings. Famous assassins on the leaderboard. A cold female voice sounded abruptly: “Princess, that Tiffany isn’t behaving.” I laughed. “I know. I’m waiting for her new tricks.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “389209”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

While getting an IV drip in the hospital, I suddenly heard the inner thoughts of the handsome guy sitting across from me: [Oh my god, isn’t that the girl on Lucas’s lock screen?] [If I call Lucas right now, he’ll come running, right?] [She’s all alone getting an IV in the middle of the night. Lucas is going to be heartbroken.] The infusion room was crowded. I thought the handsome guy was talking about someone else. But then I realized… the person he was secretly filming with his phone was me? 1 Getting sick and having to go to the hospital alone for an IV drip is lonely. Watching the IV bag, afraid to fall asleep. Just when I was feeling most vulnerable and isolated, I suddenly heard the inner thoughts of the handsome guy sitting across from me: [Oh my god, isn’t that the girl on Lucas’s lock screen?] [She’s all alone getting an IV in the middle of the night. Lucas is going to be heartbroken when he finds out.] [If I call Lucas right now, he’ll come running, right?] The infusion room was crowded. I assumed the guy was talking about someone else. Like any nosy bystander, I looked around to see who the lucky girl was. But then I realized… the person he was secretly filming with his phone was me? I wondered if I was just hallucinating because I was sick and fragile and wanted someone to be there. But then I heard his thoughts again. He had his head down, seemingly texting: [Lucas, look who I just ran into at the hospital.] [Is she the girl on your lock screen or what?] [She’s in the infusion room all by herself. No one is with her.] [How should I know what she has?] [Anyway, she’s alone.] [She looks so sleepy. She keeps almost dozing off.] [Then she jerks awake to check the IV bag.] [Is your heart breaking yet?] [Huh? You ask which hospital?] [Information this important costs money, bro.] [Five hundred bucks. Transfer it now.] [Not a cent less.] What? Five hundred bucks? Is he robbing people? I wanted to rush over and ask if I should get half of that. Ding-dong. It seemed the money arrived. The handsome guy shifted to a more excited posture. I continued to hear his thoughts: [Wow, Lucas, you’re generous.] [I’ll tell you. I’ll tell you right now.] [City Memorial Hospital, second floor, adult infusion room.] [Hurry up. Waiting for you.] [Don’t worry, I’ll keep an eye on her for you.] I really wanted to go over and tell him: Instead of staring at me, why don’t you help me stare at my IV bottle? I was so sleepy. I wanted to sleep, but I was afraid no one would call the nurse when the bag was empty. If blood flowed back or air got into the tube, it would be trouble. I closed my eyes and racked my brain, but I couldn’t figure it out. Which “Lucas” had a crush on me? Until twenty minutes later. Someone suddenly pushed open the doors to the infusion room. He was wearing a black trench coat and looked incredibly handsome. His long legs were particularly eye-catching. Underneath, he wore a white shirt. His waist was snatched, radiating pure sexual tension. The most surprising thing was that face. It was too familiar! Peak visuals. Wasn’t this my best friend’s younger brother, Lucas Sterling, who had emigrated abroad? Dead memories suddenly began to attack me. 2 Six years ago, in the heat of summer. My apartment complex had a power outage. Not being able to use the AC at night was lethal. I complained on Instagram: [Is this power outage trying to kill me with heat?] My best friend, Sophia, called me from abroad and told me to go stay at her place. Since she was out of the country, her apartment was empty anyway. I drove to her place immediately. I turned on the AC and fell fast asleep on Sophia’s bed. But I woke up in the middle of the night to find someone lying next to me. I was terrified. I turned on the light and saw a face so handsome it should be illegal. Great pecs, defined abs, and even more sculpted V-lines! His skin was fair. Just looking at him could cause a nosebleed. But his face was flushed from drinking, and he wouldn’t wake up no matter how I shook him. Of course, I recognized him immediately. It was Sophia’s handsome little brother. He was only eighteen, a fresh-faced boy, but without clothes, he was built. One look made the blood rush; it was practically inducing a crime. The brat must have been drunk. He fell asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow, completely unaware there was someone in the bed. What should I do? Sophia’s apartment was a one-bedroom. There was no other room. And the living room didn’t have AC. There was no way I was giving up the room. I wanted to kick him off the bed and make him sleep on the floor. But no matter how hard I kicked, he wouldn’t budge. I closed my eyes, angry and unsure what to do. Suddenly, the brat turned over. A pair of warm, domineering, wine-scented lips… Caught me off guard and pressed against mine. I froze instantly, my mind going blank. Who would have thought I would be molested in the middle of the night by a handsome brother five years my junior? I was about to shout and wake him up. But as soon as I opened my mouth, his slippery tongue slipped right in. I was completely stunned, my blood flowing backward. I opened my eyes wide and saw his tightly closed eyes. His eyelashes were longer than mine. With his eyes closed, they looked like crescent moons. His breath sprayed onto my face. Hot, numbing, and itching at my heart. I had never had such a huge emotional fluctuation in my life. I should have been angry and ashamed, but my heart beat faster uncontrollably. The brat swept through my mouth drunkenly. I was so scared I completely forgot how to react normally. My tongue dodged everywhere, not wanting to be caught by him. The brat wasn’t in a hurry. If he couldn’t catch it, he just sucked on my mouth bit by bit. The tip of his tongue touched the roof of my mouth. I felt like I was being electrocuted, wave after wave, unbearable. A thought actually popped into my head: This feels too good. Crazy! My mood rose and fell, my brain a mess. No matter how crazy he acted, I couldn’t let him mess around like this! I had never kissed anyone in my life. Now I was being teased by my best friend’s little brother until I couldn’t stop. I was battling myself, dizzy and flustered. Even though I couldn’t stand the soft touch… In the end, my tongue couldn’t help but touch his. My heart was about to jump out of my throat. I felt completely insane. In the quiet night, I was hot all over, sweating profusely. Later, when I thought back on it, I couldn’t remember clearly. Only the burning sensation remained vivid in my memory. Later still, the brat probably had enough of teasing me and fell asleep soundly beside me. But I— My heart was still making huge waves, unable to calm down. I stayed awake all night. At 5 AM, before the brat sobered up, I fled. 3 If only it was just that one accident. But half a month later, Sophia suddenly called me: “Chloe, did you touch the security cameras when you were at my place last time?” My head buzzed. “You have cameras in your house?” Sophia said, “I’m abroad. Of course I installed cameras in my empty apartment. I decided to check them today on a whim and found that all the recordings were normal, except for the night you stayed over. That night was deleted.” My scalp went numb. Did her brother delete it? Did he wake up the next day, check the surveillance, find out we did indescribable things, and destroy the evidence? My heart jumped into my throat. I had to clarify this. “Do you have cameras in every room?” Sophia affirmed, “Yes, everywhere except the bathroom. But that night, the footage from every room was wiped clean. I’m not blaming you, I just want to be sure. If it wasn’t you, it might be a hacker, and if they copied videos of you sleeping, that would be big trouble.” I jumped up in shock. Before her brother deleted the video, did he make a copy for himself? I wanted to find a hole to crawl into. And I couldn’t ask Sophia to ask her brother. It was truly suffering in silence. I could only brush Sophia off: “Um, ah, haha, you caught me. Not a hacker. I deleted it. Didn’t want you to see my elegant sleeping posture.” Sophia laughed on the other end. “Get out of here. As long as it’s not a hacker. I opened the video to delete it for you anyway, so it’s fine.” I was anxious for a while after hanging up. Afraid her brother would come looking for me. Luckily, nothing happened. Over time, I forgot about that night. Only occasionally, when seeing kissing scenes in dramas, would I recall the indescribable beauty of that night. Blushing, I’d secretly reminisce. Feeling ashamed, I’d quickly stop. Occasionally, chatting with Sophia, I’d inadvertently hear updates about her brother. I always paid attention carefully but dared not ask too much. I didn’t expect to see him again in the infusion room six years later. Lucas walked quickly toward me. No, accurately speaking, he walked quickly toward the handsome guy opposite me. As if discovering me by accident. His expression was surprised and shocked: “Chloe? Why are you getting an IV here alone? “Where do you feel uncomfortable? Do you want a hand warmer?” As he spoke, he took a hand warmer out of his bag and placed it under my wrist. After an hour of infusion, my wrist was frozen stiff. The sudden hot water bag was my savior. He leaned lazily on the empty seat next to me, his profile deep and handsome. Sophia said he started taking over the family business after graduating last year. Only back for a year, and the projects he took over had already doubled the company’s profits. Sophia’s dad praised his son to everyone. Truly, a newborn calf isn’t afraid of tigers. The aura of a young heir was strong, making one’s heart tingle. Especially knowing this brat had a crush on me, it added a filter. I stared straight at him, unexpectedly making his ears turn red. The black trench coat made him look noble and composed. But it couldn’t hide the chaos in his eyes: “Chloe… is there something on my face?” I held back a laugh and shook my head: “No, just thought it was too coincidental.” 4 The handsome guy opposite also greeted me with feigned surprise: “Hahaha, isn’t it a coincidence? “So this sister knows Lucas. I’m Asher, Lucas’s buddy. “Sister, I saw you were super sleepy just now. If you’re really tired, just sleep. Lucas can watch the IV bottle for you. “I called Lucas to keep me company. Didn’t expect him to meet an acquaintance here. Anyway, keeping company for one is the same as for two. “Right, Lucas?” “Mm. It’s no trouble. Chloe, go ahead and sleep.” I sneezed, and Lucas immediately took off his coat and covered me with it: “Chloe, is this warmer?” The coat, still retaining his body heat, instantly reminded me of that indescribable night six years ago. It was killing me; my heart lost its rhythm. I could only close my eyes, desperately telling myself to be calm. But I couldn’t calm down. I felt like I was on a rollercoaster, floating in the air. I couldn’t believe this brat had a crush on me. His friend’s inner thoughts came again: [Lucas, what are you being shy for? Can’t you see Chloe needs a pillow? Offer your shoulder!] [Who cares if she has a boyfriend? Why can’t the latecomer win? Just fight for it!] [So what if you’re five years younger? If you don’t pursue her, how do you know she doesn’t like younger guys? Arrogant, restrained, possessive, clingy younger brother—what sister doesn’t love that?] [Younger guys need to be sweet with their words.] [Like when her IV is done, you offer to take her home, then pin her in the elevator and say:] [Sister, you are my ideal type.] [Sister, can’t it be me?] [Sister, I only want to date you. I’m going crazy thinking about it.] [Sister, I’ll listen to you from now on.] [Sister, can I be your property?] [Sister, can I bully you from below?] [Sister, touch my abs.] Help. Who understands? I was dead tired but couldn’t sleep. My brain was filled with Lucas pinning me in the elevator, saying those lines in a magnetic, seductive voice. Nothing happened, but I was already having an intracranial orgasm. I swallowed hard. I was actually looking forward to it a little. I couldn’t imagine how good my ears would feel if Lucas really pinned me in the elevator, pressed against my ear, and said those flirting words in his deep voice. Single since birth, I couldn’t handle even a little stimulation. I peeked through my eyelids. Unexpectedly, I found Lucas staring at my face thoughtfully. Struggling with something in his eyes. Catching me opening my eyes, his gaze dodged faster than mine. But the next second, he actively closed the distance and offered his shoulder: “Chloe, I’ll lend you my shoulder to sleep on.” Before I could refuse, his long arm reached over, pressing my drowsy head onto his shoulder. His movement was fast and decisive, and very righteous: “When my sister got IVs before, she always leaned on my shoulder. “With me, you get the same treatment as my sister. “Otherwise, if she knows I met you at the hospital but didn’t take good care of you, she won’t let me off.” I tried to pretend to be calm and reserved: “I’m really too sleepy, so I won’t be polite. Thank you, Lucas.” Lucas pretended to be even calmer than me: “It’s nothing, I should do it. “I didn’t come specifically to be your pillow, just happened to meet you.” I smiled without speaking. If I hadn’t heard his friend’s thoughts. I almost believed this accidental encounter.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “389208”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

I was arrested for running a late-night street stall without a permit. The police officer at the station pulled up my file and gave me a confused look. “You graduated from Harvard. Why are you selling trinkets on the street at 2 AM?” That’s when I saw it. The Social Security number on the file was mine, but the photo was of her. Bianca White. Twenty years ago, I got into Harvard! I stumbled home in a daze, only to hear my husband, Gabe Jenkins, talking on the phone. “Bianca, don’t worry. I won’t let Claire disturb your life. You can go abroad with peace of mind.” It was him! Gabe helped Bianca steal my life! Nausea roiled in my stomach. I turned to expose him and Bianca, but before I could scream, Gabe strangled me with his belt. “I’m sorry, Claire. You can’t ruin Bianca’s future…” When I opened my eyes again, I was back in high school. The homeroom teacher was handing out college application forms. This time, I’m taking back my life! Chapter 1 “Claire, have you decided which college you’re going to?” My desk mate’s voice snapped me back to reality. A second ago, I was suffocating, dying. I looked at the young, unfamiliar face of the girl next to me and realized I had been reborn. “Claire, are you okay?” Joy surged through me. I shook my head vigorously. The homeroom teacher spoke up. “Fill out these forms first. Let me get an idea of your choices.” I stared at the teacher, Mr. Jenkins. He just happened to be Gabe Jenkins’s father. Scores were already out. We didn’t need to fill out paper forms; we could just do it online at home. Mr. Jenkins was just finding an excuse to gather everyone. He was scouting for a victim to sacrifice for Bianca. I clenched my fists, remembering my past life. This was exactly when Gabe started pursuing me. I stared at the form and filled it out randomly. Maybe it was my imagination, but I felt Mr. Jenkins glance at me. Sure enough, after collecting the forms, he said, “Claire Lewis, come to my office.” Then he left with the papers. My desk mate grabbed my arm. “You did so well this time. You’ll definitely get into Harvard.” I had the highest score in the class, a perfect 1600 SAT (equivalent). Yet, I ended up rejected everywhere. I went to Mr. Jenkins many times. He said I aimed too high and messed up my application. But he was the one who suggested Pre-Law. I glanced at Gabe, who was sleeping in the corner, and nodded to my desk mate. Yes. In this life, I won’t make the same mistake. I pushed open the office door. Mr. Jenkins looked at me. “Claire, you did great. Why did you pick these community colleges?” I had filled in random vocational schools. “High employment rate,” I said, enunciating every word. Mr. Jenkins fell silent, then spoke earnestly. “Don’t fill it out randomly. Law is a better path for a girl.” As he spoke, he opened his computer and pulled up the application portal. I stared at the screen, sarcasm in my eyes. Seeing I wasn’t cooperating, was he planning to force me? To eventually swap me with Bianca? “No thanks, Mr. Jenkins. I just really want to drive a tractor.” With that, I turned to leave and bumped right into Gabe walking in. “Claire, if you have any questions about colleges, you can ask me. I’ve always wanted to study Law.” Hearing this, my alarm bells rang. So that’s how it was. Both father and son were hinting at Law. But this time, I wouldn’t let them have their way. I nodded. “Thanks, but no need. I have a major in mind.” Gabe looked down and smiled. “Okay.” I ran out of the office, saw Gabe close the door instinctively, and doubled back to eavesdrop. “Dad, if Claire doesn’t cooperate, can’t we choose someone else?” My heart skipped a beat. Gabe wanted to harm another student! Mr. Jenkins’s voice was cold. “Claire has the best grades. She’s the safest bet. Our family owes Bianca. You understand that.” I turned and left, sneering internally. They owed Bianca, so they had to pay with my life? In my past life, after I got together with Gabe, I worked day and night preparing to retake the exams. Gabe said he’d help me register, but “failed.” He claimed they weren’t allowing retakes anymore, that regulations were strict. I believed him. Later, I wanted to take adult education exams. He said it was useless, but I insisted. But on the day of the exam, my alarm didn’t go off. I was late. I asked Gabe if he turned it off. He looked innocent and said he was worried about me not getting enough rest. I trembled with rage. Gabe hugged me and said, “Claire, let’s get married. Whether you pass or not, I’ll always love you.” I cried in his arms for a long time. Even in my dreams, I was solving math problems. How could I accept this? Later, Gabe said his business owed a huge debt. Love-struck me worked three or four jobs a day to pay it off. Thinking back, Gabe only got with me to control me. He was afraid I’d affect Bianca’s future. That’s why he blocked my path at every turn. Back in the classroom, I packed my bag and left. When I got home, my desk mate texted me saying Gabe was looking for me everywhere. I replied casually. He hadn’t given up yet. My parents worked out of state all year. After hearing my scores, they sent me money and ordered a cake, saying they’d be back next month. I understood. They worked construction. A day off meant a day without pay. I wasn’t worried about the application. I had two days left. But while I wasn’t anxious, someone else was. That evening, I went for a walk and bumped into Gabe. Gabe smiled at me. “Claire! What a coincidence.” “I remember you live on the west side.” Gabe looked natural. “Here for some business. Where are you going? I’ll walk with you.” I said coldly, “No need. Stay away from me.” Gabe froze, looking hurt. “Do you… hate me?” I stared him down. “Yes, I hate you. Stay away from me.” Gabe’s breath hitched. Maybe he couldn’t understand why the popular Prom King was so detested by me. If it weren’t illegal, I would have stabbed him right there. I wanted him dead. “Claire, if you hate me, give me a reason.” Gabe’s voice was low, his eyes fixed on me. He did have a good face. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have fallen for him in my past life. Suddenly, a voice came from nearby. “Gabe? What are you doing here?” Bianca jogged over and hugged Gabe’s arm. I saw him stiffen. This was the first time I saw Bianca up close—the person who stole my future. “Who are you?” Bianca looked at me warily. I smiled. “Claire Lewis. Gabe’s classmate.” Bianca’s face changed slightly. “Didn’t you say you were buying me snacks?” So it really was a coincidence. Gabe reacted smoothly. “Forgot. You go home first; I have something to do here.” Bianca raised her voice. “Gabe, what do you mean?” Gabe pushed Bianca away. I don’t know what he whispered to her, but he came back. “Claire, she’s the daughter of my mom’s friend.” I asked back, “Why tell me?” Gabe sounded serious. “I like you. I don’t want you to misunderstand.” Hearing this, I felt sick to my stomach. Here we go again. “I don’t like you. Seeing you makes me nauseous,” I said coldly. Gabe’s face turned visibly pale. He clenched his fists. “What did I do wrong?” I stared at him. “You’re too ugly.” And despicable. Gabe’s mouth opened slightly. I didn’t want to engage further and kept walking. “Claire! I won’t give up!” Gabe shouted behind me. I sneered internally. Two days left. What can you do? I’ll submit my application at the very last second. They won’t have a chance to swap anything. Chapter 2 The next day after school, I found a pile of roses at my door. Gabe stood in the hallway, tall and elegant. He stared at me intently. “Claire, yesterday was too hasty. I want to be serious now.” I said coldly, “No matter how serious you are, I won’t like you.” “Then who do you like? Is there anyone better looking than me?” Gabe sounded urgent. I took out my key to open the door, but Gabe blocked me. “Claire, I really like you. I want to go to Law School with you.” I looked at him strangely. When did I ever say I wanted to study Law? I laughed. “Sorry, your scores aren’t high enough. Give it a rest, garbage.” Gabe’s tone leveled out. “Claire, can you stop being so mean?” I stared at him silently. “Since you’ve decided on Law, you should fill out the application soon.” A sudden urge to tease him rose in me. “No. I want to drive a tractor.” I saw a vein throb in Gabe’s temple. I opened the door, stepped in, and slammed it shut, almost hitting his nose. The next day, I received tons of texts. The Prom King confessed to me, and the whole school knew. Gabe spread the news, obviously. Mr. Jenkins called me many times. I didn’t answer. Seconds later, he called again. He cut to the chase. “Claire, you’re a good kid. I have no objection to you dating Gabe.” He had no objection in my past life either. Back then, I was happy he didn’t mind that I “failed” getting into college. “My son has always wanted to study Law and become a great lawyer. I hope you can work hard together.” I smiled, a glint in my eyes. “Sure.” Mr. Jenkins paused, then his voice filled with smiles. “It’s great that you agree.” I hung up, almost laughing maniacally. Just now, I changed my mind. Playing them would be fun. I want to make sure Bianca never goes to college. Without me, I worry there will be another victim. Knowing I agreed to date him, Gabe came to find me immediately. He asked, “Did you submit the application?” “Not yet. Tomorrow.” Gabe breathed a sigh of relief. “Want to hang out? My friends are having a dinner party.” I nodded. “Okay.” Gabe looked at me, still uneasy, not understanding my sudden change. But so what? He was the one running out of time. Bianca was there too. She rolled her eyes hard when she saw me. I said bluntly, “Bianca, is your eye twitching?” “What?” Bianca was stunned. Me: “Why roll your eyes at me? Do it again, and I’ll poke them out.” Bianca stood up abruptly but was pushed down by Gabe. “Bianca, behave.” Bianca’s eyes turned red with anger. “Gabe, how can you talk to me like that?” I raised my hand and slapped her. The room froze. Bianca covered her face. Gabe’s expression changed. “Claire! You dare hit me!” Bianca lunged at me like a madwoman but was blocked by Gabe. “Bianca! Calm down! Endure it!” Gabe’s words calmed her down. She glared at me viciously. “Claire! Just wait! You’ll cry soon enough.” I smiled and sat down to eat, ignoring everyone else’s stares. I told Gabe to peel shrimp for me. He obeyed obediently. Bianca couldn’t stand it and excused herself to the restroom. Gabe followed shortly after. “Valedictorian, how did you make the Prom King so devoted to you?” a classmate asked. I looked up. “Score high enough, and he’ll suck up to you too.” The person laughed awkwardly, not believing me. Sometimes I wonder, if Bianca and I were both boys, would Gabe sacrifice himself for college? I put down my chopsticks and walked to the restroom. Bianca was leaning in Gabe’s arms, crying. “Gabe, why are you always taking her side?” Gabe held her. “Bianca, endure it. It’ll be over tomorrow.” “I’m doing this for your college dream. I’ll get you into Law School.” Bianca finally smiled, but her expression froze seconds later. Our eyes met. Bianca scrambled out of Gabe’s arms. She said dryly, “Claire, you misunderstand. He was just comforting me.” Gabe saw me and went blank for a few seconds. “Claire…” “Listen to your explanation?” I looked mocking and sneered. “Let’s break up.” Agreeing to date him was just to play him. Gabe begged immediately. “I love you! I don’t want to break up!” He wasn’t sure how much I heard, so he didn’t dare say more. I feigned hurt and pointed at Bianca. “Then why were you hugging her?” Sure enough, Gabe breathed a sigh of relief. He walked slowly toward me. “She was upset just now. I was comforting her.” Bianca chimed in. “Yes, he was just comforting me.” Even if she hated me, she had to win me back right now. I covered my face to stop myself from laughing. “No. I want to break up. I don’t want dirty things.” Gabe’s expression twisted. I left the restaurant and walked straight into the police station. I looked troubled. “Officer, I don’t have a computer at home. Can you help me submit my college application?” The female officer was very helpful and let me use their computer immediately. She asked, “What was your score?” “1600.” The officer was shocked and smiled. “That high? You must be going to Harvard.” I nodded. “I want to study Finance at Harvard.” After submitting, I received several small gifts. The officer said, “Let us know when you get your acceptance letter. We’ll celebrate.” Tears welled up in my eyes. “I will.” What I longed for in my past life, I must get in this one. When I got home, I saw Gabe squatting at my door. Seeing me, he ran over. “Claire, listen to me. There’s nothing between me and Bianca. She’s just my mom’s friend’s daughter.” I took a step back. “Stop harassing me. I’ll just consider myself unlucky to meet a scumbag, okay?” “No…” Gabe put on a soulful face. Suddenly his phone rang. He saw it was his dad and wanted to hang up. I smiled. “Answer it.” Gabe stared at me and obediently answered. He instinctively turned his back to me. The volume was low; I couldn’t hear. But I knew what Mr. Jenkins would say. I spoke up from behind him. “I already submitted my application.” Gabe held the phone. The other end went silent. I smiled. “Are you guys still coveting my score?” Gabe’s expression changed. “What are you talking about?” “Want Bianca to go to my college?” My voice was light. “No way.” Gabe hung up. “You’re overthinking it.” Seeing him play dumb, I slapped him hard. “Gabe, you’re shameless. Trying to use my future to please Bianca? Disgusting.” Gabe’s cheek reddened. He stared at me. “Claire, you misunderstand.” “I applied to Harvard, not Law School. Your sweetheart can’t be a lawyer now.” Gabe finally panicked. He grabbed my shoulders. “Claire, I beg you. Give this college spot to Bianca.” “I’ll give you whatever you want.” I shook him off violently. “Give me ten billion dollars.” “What?” “Give me ten billion, and I’ll give her the spot.” Gabe froze. I laughed. “Can’t afford it? Then don’t ask. Shameless.” Gabe seemed indifferent to the insults now. He said bluntly, “Claire, Bianca’s parents died saving me. I owe her this.” I kicked him hard, raising my voice. “Your family owes her! What does that have to do with me? Why should I pay your debt?” Gabe tried to grab me. I screamed, agitated. “Get out! Don’t touch me! You people are nauseating!” Gabe looked hurt. “I’m sorry, Claire. I beg you to change your application…” How could he say such disgusting things? “Get lost. If you want to repay her, trade your own future.” I took out my key and opened the door. Gabe hugged me, begging incessantly. “If you give it to her, I won’t go to college either. I’ll stay with you forever.” I backhanded him across the face. “Get off! Filth!” Not satisfied, I kicked him repeatedly. Gabe dodged and begged, his thick skin appalling. Finally, I kicked him in the stomach, sending him rolling down the stairs. I stood at the top, watching coldly as Gabe struggled to stand up in pain. I turned and went inside. I wasn’t afraid Mr. Jenkins would secretly change my application; I had changed the password long ago. Maybe Gabe gave up. He didn’t come to harass me again. Chapter 3 I waited half a month but didn’t receive an acceptance letter. I realized my college spot was stolen after all. So, Bianca gave up on Law School and decided to go to Harvard. Anger surged in my heart. I forced myself to calm down. I dialed 911, crying, “My college admission was stolen.” The same female officer responded. She asked, “Are you sure?” I nodded. “I didn’t get a letter, but Bianca did.” “I scored 1600. She only got 900 something.” It was obvious. Something was wrong. The officer and her partner went to Mr. Jenkins’s house. I followed. Mr. Jenkins looked panicked seeing us. I cried, “It’s him! He replaced me!” Mr. Jenkins feigned calm. “Claire, what are you talking about?” “I didn’t receive my acceptance letter.” I stared at him, enunciating clearly. Mr. Jenkins argued, “Is it possible you aimed too high? You can’t blame me for replacing you if you just didn’t get in.” The officer spoke up. “Claire submitted her application right in front of me. Her score is enough for Harvard.” Mr. Jenkins’s face changed. He looked sharply at me. I gave him a sly smile. I knew what you were doing all along. At this moment, Bianca and Gabe walked out. Seeing me, Gabe panicked. I raised my voice. “Bianca! Where is your acceptance letter?” Seeing the police, Bianca realized something was wrong. “Acceptance letter? I haven’t received it yet.” I stared at her. “Impossible.” The officer patted my back gently to comfort me. “It’s okay, Claire. We’ll solve this.” Mr. Jenkins straightened his back. “Claire, if you suspect me, you need evidence.” I wiped my tears. “The letter is evidence.” It has my social security number on it. Back then, online verification wasn’t as robust. If it were, identity theft wouldn’t be possible. Bianca turned pale, looking at Gabe instinctively. Gabe hung his head silently. The officer walked in. “Bianca, please bring out your acceptance letter.” Bianca looked panicked. “You have no right to see my letter.” The officer smiled and showed her badge. Bianca finally broke down crying. “Dad, what do I do…” Mr. Jenkins closed his eyes. Hearing “Dad,” Gabe asked blankly, “What did you call him?” Bianca shut up, shaking her head frantically, just crying. I looked at Bianca, then at Mr. Jenkins. They did look alike. I realized they were likely biological father and daughter. “Mr. Jenkins, is Bianca your daughter?” As soon as I said it, Gabe’s voice cracked. “Dad, Bianca is your daughter?” He stared at Mr. Jenkins fiercely. “Dad! How could you do this to me? To Mom?” “You cheated on Mom with that woman!” Mr. Jenkins took a deep breath, his face gray, offering no explanation. Bianca cried, trying to grab Gabe’s hand, but he flung her away violently. Bianca fell to the ground, sobbing. “Get away! You make me sick!” I never expected Gabe to say Bianca made him sick. In my past life, Gabe lit up whenever he mentioned Bianca. If I got jealous, he’d say he used to like her, but it was in the past. Sometimes he celebrated her birthday. I fought with him about it. He said Bianca was like a daughter to his dad, that he went for social reasons. When I asked to go with him, he always found excuses to keep me away from her. I suddenly remembered Bianca used my identity, and nominally my name too. Now that Bianca was really Mr. Jenkins’s daughter, why wasn’t Gabe happy? Gabe kept screaming, “Get out! You disgust me!” Bianca crawled up, crying, trying to touch him. “Gabe, I…” Gabe laughed, eyes bloodshot. “No wonder! No wonder you rejected me when I confessed! You’re my dad’s bastard daughter!” I leaned against the door, enjoying the chaotic scene. The police took Bianca, Mr. Jenkins, and Gabe away. Investigation revealed Mr. Jenkins was a repeat offender. Suddenly, my case became the small one. After giving my statement, I walked out of the police station. Gabe followed me. He looked terrible. He called out to me. “Claire.” I turned to look at him. “I’m sorry. Are you satisfied now?” Gabe looked ready to cry. I looked at the living Gabe and shook my head. “No. I’ll only be satisfied if you die.” Gabe looked hurt. I was confused. Why keep pretending at this point? “Claire, I liked you. Since a year ago, I’ve been watching you.” Hearing this, I felt disgusted. I exposed him mercilessly. “You just picked me as the sacrifice.” Gabe shook his head violently, crying. “No! I really liked you! You like the food from the last window in the cafeteria. You memorize vocab while looking out the window. I know so many of your habits.” I realized past-life Gabe really did know me well. If he liked me, why kill me? I didn’t think he liked me. “Do you want me to forgive your dad and Bianca?” My tone was subtle. Gabe paused. “No, I don’t mean that.” “Why do you always think the worst of me?” I laughed. “I know people like you too well. Despicable, shameless, low.” “Others like you because they’re deceived by your mask. You look human, but inside you’re dirtier than a public toilet.” Maybe my words were too harsh; Gabe’s expression shifted constantly. Finally, he asked, “Can we still be together?” I looked at him like he was mentally challenged. Psycho. My parents rushed back when they heard the news. Just like in my past life, they listened to me firmly. Even without money, they scraped together tuition. Dad sat aside smoking, sighing. Mom kept crying, terrified. I comforted her softly. “Mom, I got into college.” Mom broke down, hugging me. “It’s been hard on you. Your dad and I don’t know anything; you had to solve this yourself. I don’t know how to be a parent.” I patted Mom’s hand. Dad finished his cigarette, eyes red. I knew they blamed themselves, but this was all because of Gabe and his family. In my past life, I didn’t know how broken they were when they heard I died. To stop me from hindering Bianca’s future, he went that far. In this life, would he still love Bianca that much? After calming my parents, I went back to the station. Several reporters were waiting outside. This kind of news naturally attracted media. They stopped me. “Are you Claire Lewis?” I said calmly, “I am.” “How do you feel about your college spot being stolen?” I twitched my lips. “Anger. Because my teacher conspired with his son to deceive me, trying to use my future to compensate someone else.” “Is that someone your teacher’s illegitimate daughter?” I nodded and was pulled away by the officer. I wanted Bianca’s whole family to be shunned by society. The college entrance exam is sensitive. This scandal would be remembered for years. I learned the truth about Bianca’s parents saving Gabe from the officer. The Jenkins house caught fire because Mr. Jenkins was with Bianca’s mom and forgot the stove. Bianca’s dad discovered the fire and ran in to help. Mr. Jenkins had to flee out the window to avoid being seen. Young Gabe was napping inside. Bianca’s dad saved Gabe, then went back for his wife, but it was too late. Both of Bianca’s parents burned to death. Hearing this, I sighed. When I got my actual acceptance letter, a tear rolled down my cheek. In this life, I finally made it to college. Chapter 4 After the media reports, the Jenkins family became notorious. People cursed them daily. With the internet, the spit of the public almost drowned them. But the sentences for Mr. Jenkins and Bianca hadn’t come down yet. I relaxed, thinking the dust had settled. I didn’t expect Gabe to find me again. He blocked me on my way to buy groceries. He looked haggard, head down, blocking me silently. I gripped the butterfly knife in my pocket, alert. “What do you want?” Gabe looked up, eyes complex, voice hoarse. “Claire…” I didn’t speak. Did he want me to forgive them? “You were reborn, right?” My expression changed drastically. I turned to run. “I… I won’t hurt you!” Gabe said urgently. I stopped, staring at him. “Gabe, you’re disgusting.” He accepted my abuse. “I’m sorry. I regret it. I really loved you…” I stared at him with hatred and slapped him hard. My palm stung. Gabe knelt before me, covering his face and crying. “I’m sorry. I don’t know what happened that day. I really regret it…” I stood there, looking down at him, my heart a barren wasteland. “After you died, I turned myself in. I loved you…” “For so many years, I was held hostage by that debt of gratitude. I couldn’t breathe. Turns out I was the biggest joke.” “I used to like Bianca, but I moved on long ago. Every minute with you, I was happy.” He couldn’t accept that Bianca was his half-sister. He couldn’t imagine his gentle father had betrayed his mother long ago. How much his mother must be suffering in the afterlife. My tone was flat. “Why should someone else pay for your debt of gratitude?” “What about my ten years of deception?” I couldn’t find a decent job. Even if I got into a bigger company, I’d get fired for inexplicable reasons. It turned out it was all Gabe’s doing. Gabe burst into tears. He said he didn’t expect forgiveness anymore. He asked what he could do to make me feel better. I smiled. “Get lost. I never want to see you again.” Gabe’s face turned white, shattering. I returned home. The class group chat was buzzing daily. Everyone was shocked by Mr. Jenkins’s actions. They were terrified their spots might have been stolen too. Someone asked how I was doing. I replied simply: Everything is good. My parents made a big meal and stayed a few extra days before leaving for work. After that, gifts appeared at my door daily. All from Gabe. Annoyed, I threw them all away. Did Gabe not understand human language? Just stay away. In this life, I want to shine. I don’t want to deal with trash people. Maybe because I threw them away every time, Gabe stopped sending them. The verdict came down. Bianca got five months detention. Mr. Jenkins got three years. Hearing this, I smiled. Bianca, who wanted to study Law, finally paid for her actions.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “389207”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

To save Liam Walker, who fell from a high place while working on a power line, I disregarded my own safety and used my body as a cushion to break his fall. He ended up with just a few scratches, but the impact left me with serious internal injuries and a shattered right arm. Later, pressured by the town’s gossip about how he owed me his life, he was forced to marry me. But Liam never loved me. Once, when he was drunk, I heard his true thoughts. “If I knew I’d be shackled to Grace Harper for the rest of my life, I would have been better off falling to my death!” I felt like I had been plunged into an ice bath. Only then did I realize that for all those years, Liam never forgot his “one true love.” He even told our children about their epic romance behind my back. Even my own kids thought I was the villain who ruined their father’s true love, using a debt of gratitude to trap him. They dumped me in an empty nursing home to die of depression. When I opened my eyes again, I was back on the day Liam climbed the utility pole to start work. This time, I didn’t save him. instead, I stood far, far away. In this life, I’ll let him get exactly what he wished for. Chapter 1 “Liam, this job is dangerous. Make sure your safety gear is secure!” “Yeah, Liam, that pole is over thirty feet high. Falling off would be no joke.” “Better slow than sorry!” Liam Walker was fully geared up, safety belt on his waist, climbing spikes on his boots, slowly making his way up. I was jolted awake by the shouting around me. It was like a fog clearing from my brain. Villagers stood all around. Unknowingly, I had walked to the base of the utility pole, staring at Liam who was already halfway up. My palms were sweating with nervousness. Seeing this incredibly familiar scene and hearing the familiar chatter… I quickly realized: I was reborn! I was back forty years in the past, back to the day I risked my life to be Liam’s human cushion! In my past life, to save Liam when he suddenly fell, I willingly used my body to catch him. With me as a cushion, Liam only suffered minor scrapes. But I had internal bleeding and a fractured right arm. Thanks to a timely rush to the hospital, I survived. Because of this life-saving act, a huge stir went through our small town. The neighbors knew Liam and I were childhood sweethearts. We grew up together, close as can be—a match made in heaven. Everyone gossiped, joking that “saving a life can only be repaid with marriage.” Under the pressure of public opinion, Liam chose to marry me. Only after marriage did I learn that he never loved me. On our wedding day, he hid in the power plant and called Sophia Vance on the landline, crying his heart out. “I’m sorry, Sophia. I can’t marry you in this life. If there is a next life, I will never let you down again.” I buried this secret deep in my heart and told no one. Although I knew he was forced to marry me, I believed that love could grow over time. I didn’t believe that decades of living together wouldn’t touch his heart. For forty years, I took care of Liam’s life with all my might. To let him work without worry, I took on all household matters, big and small. But it wasn’t until that drunken confession that I woke up from my dream. You can’t warm a stone. He had mentioned his love story with Sophia countless times to our children behind my back, never mentioning my sacrifices. This led the children to grow up blaming me for using a debt of gratitude to ruin their father’s true love. Thinking about it now, it’s ridiculous and pathetic. My thoughts were interrupted by a shout. “Hey everyone, look! Why is Liam coming down?” Chapter 2 Just then, Liam, who should have been climbing higher, suddenly turned back. In moments, he climbed down the pole. Seeing me standing below, he frowned slightly, looked at me with disgust, and instinctively distanced himself. “Supervisor, this gear is old. It was about to snap. Luckily I noticed in time, so I came down!” Before I could think, the crowd erupted in noise. Liam pulled with both hands, and the safety rope snapped. He wiped the sweat from his forehead, shaken. “Good thing I found it in time, or I would have really fallen!” He glanced at me, seemingly unintentional but full of sarcasm. “And then someone would have gotten a bargain again!” My heart skipped a beat. I knew exactly who “someone” was. It was laughable. In my past life, I nearly died saving him. And in Liam’s eyes, I “got a bargain”! It seemed I wasn’t the only one reborn. I sneered. “Then you better pray nothing else goes wrong!” I turned to go home, wanting to leave this troublesome place. Unexpectedly, Liam called out to me, ordering me to stay and watch him. Clearly, he was spooked by my comment. He stared at me with an ugly expression. “Grace Harper, where are you going? The work isn’t done. You stay under the pole. If something happens, it’s convenient for you to save me.” I turned around abruptly, staring at Liam’s self-righteous command, and laughed coldly. Having lived with him for forty years, I knew his psychology. In our past life, after that accident, Liam developed a phobia of heights. He was quickly transferred to a desk job at the plant and never climbed a pole again. Now, he was afraid something else would go wrong. If he fell again, having me there meant having a cushion! “There are so many people here, what is a grown man like you afraid of?” “If something really happens, there are plenty of people to save you. Do you really expect a small girl like me to catch you?” The crowd laughed, urging him to hurry up and restore the power. “Liam, we’re watching. You’ll be fine. Hurry up and fix the line, everyone’s waiting to start work!” Liam’s face turned extremely ugly. In the forty years of our past life, I never refused a single request of his. Now, reborn, the first time he opened his mouth, I mocked him mercilessly. As the town’s famous electrician, Liam had been respected his whole life. He had never been ridiculed like this. Frowning, he gritted his teeth and stared at me. “Fine, Grace. If you leave, don’t ever think of begging me to talk to you again in this life.” I acted like I didn’t hear him and walked away without looking back. He probably couldn’t imagine that right now, I wished for nothing more than to stay far away from him. Seeing me disappear into the crowd, Liam could only fume impotently. Finally, under the pressure of the crowd, he climbed the pole cautiously. After leaving, I rushed to the town post office. In my past life, I had successfully passed the college entrance exam. But because I saved Liam, I was in a coma for seven days and then recovering in the hospital. By the time I remembered, I rushed to the post office to get my admission letter, only to be told I had missed the enrollment deadline and was considered to have forfeited. And the spot had already been filled by someone else; it couldn’t be restored. In the end, I could only work as a temp at the power plant, mocked by Liam daily. Meanwhile, Sophia, who returned from college, quickly gained a foothold in the plant and was seen everywhere with Liam. I even knew many people secretly lamented that this golden couple was ruined by a useless weed like me. I argued and fought in my past life. In the end, Liam told me contemptuously: “If it weren’t for my connections, could you even be a temp at the plant?” “You want to compare yourself to Sophia? Are you worthy?” From that day on, I knew Liam never let go of Sophia. Even though I poured my heart out for him, it wasn’t enough. This time, I will fulfill his “true love” and let him have what he wants! Chapter 3 Arriving at the post office to claim my admission letter. The postmaster praised me to the skies. “You’re the only college student from our town this time. You’ve really done us proud!” He practically escorted me out on a pedestal. But I had a doubt in my heart. In my past life, wasn’t Sophia a college student too? How come I was the only one? But I didn’t dwell on it. When I got home and told my parents the good news, my dad was so excited he lit incense to thank the ancestors. Mom immediately prepared a feast and invited the neighbors in our alley. Liam’s house was in the same alley, less than twenty yards away. When he came back, he was still wearing his work clothes. His hand had a large gash, still bleeding. Mom saw it and told me to go home and get some styptic herbs and a towel. I really didn’t want to go. But I couldn’t resist Mom’s stern look. She was a doctor and ran a small clinic. She treated all the minor injuries and illnesses in the neighborhood. Reluctantly, I mashed some herbs in a mortar and applied them to Liam’s hand, wrapping it with a towel. Liam looked at me with a complicated expression. “I heard you got into college and got your admission letter?” I didn’t speak, just nodded. A look of nervousness and unease seemed to flash in Liam’s eyes. I thought he had found a conscience and recognized my excellence, but he immediately shouted: “You can’t go! Grace, I order you to give up this opportunity.” I stared at Liam like he was an idiot for a long time. He must still think we are living in the past life, in those forty years where I obeyed him blindly. I looked at him sarcastically, smiling coldly. “Why can’t I go? I worked hard to get into college, why should I give it up?” “Because Sophia has been waiting for this chance for a long time. As long as you give it up, I can push Sophia into the spot during the supplementary admission!” In that instant, I froze, trembling with rage. I have to say, once again, Liam’s words cut me to the core. So it was him. In my past life, he was the one who made me lose my chance at college. And I foolishly thought it was an accident and took care of him for a lifetime. All the emotions in my heart churned. I was such a fool. I should have guessed. In the past life, his salary was sixty dollars a month. He brought home less than half for living expenses, which wasn’t enough. Later, to lighten his burden, I worked as a temp. Only then did I learn that more than half of Liam’s money was sent away every month. Now it seems, most likely it was sent to Sophia, who was in college at the time. My voice squeezed out through clenched teeth. “Liam Walker, in the past life you caused me to miss college. This time you want me to give it up again? Keep dreaming! I won’t give this chance to anyone!” He kept a cold face, threatening me. “I am ordering you, not discussing with you. Grace, if you obey, I don’t mind marrying you again in this life.” “But if you insist on going against me, don’t blame me for disregarding our past life’s bond!” I bit the inside of my cheek until it was raw. The taste of blood filled my mouth. Forty years of marriage meant absolutely nothing. In his eyes, there was only Sophia! “Don’t worry. In this life, even if I never marry, I won’t marry you!” With that, I turned and left. Behind me, Liam kicked a chair in fury. “Fine! Grace, if you have the guts, don’t come crawling back to me!” I returned home with red eyes. Mom knew immediately I had fought with Liam. “Grace, don’t cry. Did you fight with Liam? I’m telling you, if you want to marry Liam later, you have to tolerate his temper now.” “No! I will never marry Liam in this life. Once I go to college, there will be plenty of men better than him!” In my past life, I was trapped by Liam. In this life, I won’t make the same mistake. Chapter 4 For a while after that day, I didn’t run into Liam. Sometimes if I saw him on the street, I would subconsciously dodge. I thought Liam would give up the stupid idea of making me drop out. But unexpectedly, he couldn’t persuade or threaten me, so he started playing dirty tricks behind my back. If I hadn’t gone to the post office to mail herbs for my mom, I wouldn’t have discovered Liam and Sophia’s scheme. They had just come out of the post office after mailing a letter. Sophia clung to Liam’s arm, blinking her big eyes, looking touched. “Liam, thank you so much. Otherwise, I would have really missed out on college this time.” Hearing this, my face went pale. I didn’t understand Sophia’s meaning at first. Wasn’t the admission spot mine? But listening to her, it sounded like Liam did something to give it to her? Liam smiled, speaking lovingly to Sophia. “Sophia, don’t worry. With me here, you will definitely go to college.” “But aren’t you afraid Grace will make a scene?” A sneer curled on his lips. “Why would she make a scene? A little kindness keeps her happy for days.” “Besides, worst case, I’ll just marry her. But Sophia, rest assured, the person I love most is definitely you!” “Even if I marry Grace, I’ll find a chance to divorce her when you finish college and come back!” Sophia was moved beyond words. They started kissing right there, oblivious to others. Hiding in the corner, I closed my eyes weakly. The grievances of the past life merged with the tears of this one. The bitter taste spread on my tongue. It turned out that forty years of devotion meant nothing to him. I could be dismissed with “a little kindness.” To let Sophia fulfill her college dream, he was willing to “sacrifice” himself to marry me! I watched them embrace and leave the post office. After a long while, I walked out of the alley carefully and went straight into the post office for answers. Luckily, many staff members recognized me from picking up my admission letter. As soon as I walked in, they spoke with regret. “Miss Harper, this is such a great opportunity. Why give up enrollment?” I froze for a second, then quickly replied. “I didn’t. I’ve been preparing for college.” “But someone just came with your household registry (Social Security/ID documents), claiming family reasons to forfeit your admission on your behalf. They mailed back the waiver and the recommendation for the supplementary spot.” At this moment, I finally knew what Liam was up to. As my husband in the past life, Liam knew my ID number. With his ability, forging documents was easy. Thinking of how he helped me drop out in the past life, he was undoubtedly familiar with the process in this one. As long as I “voluntarily” withdrew, he could use connections to recommend Sophia for my spot, smoothly taking my admission quota. The realization hit me like a club. Panicked, I grabbed the staff member’s hand. “That mail cannot go out! I want to go to college!” “And I have no relationship with him. He can’t make decisions for me. My documents are at home; his are forged!” Hearing that it involved forging government documents, the staff were terrified. They immediately intercepted the mail and called the police. Fortunately, the mail was stopped in time. When the police arrived, they asked me about the situation. Soon, sitting in the station lobby, I saw Liam and Sophia being brought in by officers. Sophia’s face had lost all color. Seeing me, Liam rushed over, practically pointing at my nose and scolding. “Grace, have you no shame? What did Sophia do to offend you that you accuse her of breaking the law?” I finally saw through this man. He really went to great lengths for Sophia. I snorted. “Whether laws were broken or not, the police will give us an answer. Saying more now won’t cover your guilt!” “Liam, don’t treat me like a fool!” His face changed instantly, eyes darting, fingers trembling. Seeing Sophia being taken in for questioning, he started playing the emotional card. “Grace, we can discuss things privately. No need to blow this up!” It was laughable. Accusing me one second, asking for private discussion the next. “Did you discuss privately with me when you forged my documents and forfeited my admission?” “Now you say no need to blow it up? On what grounds?” Almost simultaneously. The police called Liam’s name. “Liam Walker, please cooperate with the investigation.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “389206”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

My husband, Logan Cole, never wanted children with me. Then suddenly, he became relentless, taking me for three days and three nights without any protection. I thought he had finally accepted me. Blushing, I took the pregnancy test to his office to share the good news, only to hear him laughing in the lounge with his childhood sweetheart, Ivy, and his two best friends. “You guys spoil me too much! I was just curious whose baby she’d end up with if we did that. You three really treated Scarlett like a ragdoll. Will she be mad if she finds out the father is unknown?” My husband, Logan, scoffed. “Mad? I was rewarding her! You have no idea how happy she was when she heard we were trying for a baby.” “But seriously, Logan, Scarlett is naturally seductive!” “Only you, Logan, would be generous enough to share!” “Why don’t we make a bet? Who’s going to hit the jackpot? The loser has to buy Ivy a piece of jewelry at the auction, no less than ten million!” With their male pride at stake, the three men eagerly raised the stakes. Ivy watched them argue with flushed faces, laughing delightedly. through the blinds, she cast a dismissive glance at me. Chapter 1 “Logan, what if Scarlett finds out the baby isn’t yours? What then?” Logan sneered contemptuously. “Carrying another man’s seed just proves she’s a slut. Cheating and getting knocked up? Even if she finds out, would she have the face to tell anyone?” “Besides, do you think I don’t cover my tracks?” He pulled a stack of photos from his pocket and threw them on the table. “Damn, you didn’t even blur her face! If anyone sees these, her reputation is toast, hahaha.” “Just like those magazines from overseas. You can feel the slutiness through the photos!” Ivy picked one up, looked at it with disgust, and tossed it aside. The photo slid precisely through the gap under the door, landing right in front of my eyes. My breath hitched. I threw myself to the floor, grabbing my dignity and face, stuffing the photo desperately into my sleeve. Tears wouldn’t stop flowing. Logan was forced to marry me by his parents. For years, he barely touched me. I thought I had finally moved him. So, even knowing the wine was drugged, I drank it obediently, letting my reason be stripped away bit by bit. To have a child, to please him, I spent those three days shamelessly welcoming him, responding to him. I didn’t even know when they switched places, or when the photos were taken. All of this, just because of one sentence from Ivy, the childhood sweetheart they held in their palms. I ran out of the office building as if for my life. Even though I was fully clothed, I felt everyone’s gaze was stripping me naked, like in those photos. The immense shame almost crushed me. I ran with my head down, a few minutes’ walk feeling like a century. Back home, I rushed to the shredder, destroying the photo again and again. I wished I could shove my dirty self in there too. A loud slam of the door made me jump. It was Logan. “Did your period come this month?” I didn’t react for a moment. “W-what?” He smirked, a teasing lilt in his voice. “My little cream puff, it was three whole days. I’m pretty confident in my abilities. Come downstairs, I’m taking you to the hospital for a checkup.” Logan grabbed me and dragged me to the garage. Seeing me sitting dazedly in the passenger seat, he sighed and buckled my seatbelt. I grabbed his hand, blurting out: “Going to the hospital to check if I’m pregnant? Logan, do you really want a child with me?” He ruffled my hair, his eyes so gentle they could drip water. “What nonsense. Of course I do. A girl like you, a boy like me. Perfect.” He acted so well. If I hadn’t heard their conversation at the office, I would have believed him. When we arrived at the hospital, Logan’s two friends and Ivy were already waiting. They looked me up and down maliciously. The naked, sticky gazes of the two men gave me goosebumps. Logan pulled me behind him. “They heard you might be pregnant and came to congratulate you.” The blood test was quick. Just like my home test, I was pregnant. Logan held the report. I couldn’t read his expression, but Ivy was visibly unhappy. He looked up at the doctor. “Can we do a paternity test now?” The doctor looked back and forth between me and Logan. “It’s only been three weeks. It’s possible, but generally, we don’t recommend—” He interrupted in a low voice. “Just do it. Do it now.” The doctor quickly added, “We can only do chorionic villus sampling right now. It’s risky for the mother and fetus, and we can’t use anesthesia. It will be very painful. Sir, maybe reconsider?” He frowned, impatient. “No anesthesia means no anesthesia. Do you not understand English?” The doctor turned to ask me. I gave a bitter smile. “Do it.” The paternity test takes a week. They couldn’t wait to open the prize. Any later and they’d miss Ivy’s auction. They didn’t care if I got hurt. In the crowded waiting area, people started pointing at me. After the doctor took samples, Logan dropped another bomb. “Collect samples from my two friends too. Test them all together.” The crowd exploded. “What’s going on? This woman plays hard? With three men?!” “Why else would a husband bring his newly pregnant wife for a paternity test? He doesn’t know whose seed it is!” “Her husband is tall and handsome, yet she cheats. Ungrateful. If I were him, I’d beat her to death!” The doctor, who had just pitied me, felt deceived. Without anesthesia, his hand was heavy. A sharp pain shot through my abdomen, blinding me. Tears rolled down my face. I walked out holding the wall. Logan strode forward, ready to hug me. But then Ivy ran off with red eyes. Logan’s two friends chased after her. The man who had just put his arm around me froze, then let go. I fell hard onto the floor. “Go home yourself. I need to check on Ivy.” He turned and ran towards Ivy. Look, he runs when he goes to her. The onlookers, seeing my pathetic state, gloated. “A bus anyone can ride. Deserves to have her husband run off!” “Hey beauty, got a number? How much for a night? I can definitely afford you.” “She charges? Free! Just call and she’ll jump in your bed!” I crawled up using the handrail, head down, staring at my toes as I shuffled out. By the time I cabbed home, it was dark. Panting, I grabbed the doorknob. As soon as I opened it, a humid, ambiguous smell hit me. The sounds of Ivy and Logan entangled almost pierced my eardrums. I slammed the door shut, slid down the wall, and held my head. Enough! Really enough! I don’t want to hear it! I don’t want to hear anything! I don’t know how much time passed before the door opened again. Ivy was dressed skimpily, her face flushed, red marks dotting her slender neck. The sound of a shower came from the bathroom. She leaned against the doorframe arrogantly, looking down her nose at me, her voice vicious. “Shamelessly seducing Logan every day to have a baby with you. Where do you get the nerve?!” “You love breeding so much? Are you happy now? Just one word from me, and all three of them will take turns on you again. Maybe next time we’ll toss you in a homeless shelter?” She stepped closer as she spoke, forcing me back. “Even if you made Logan marry you, so what? His heart is only with me. Did you ever see the way he looked at me just now, so serious and passionate? You pathetic wretch, you’re just a tool for venting lust!” Ivy’s red lips moved, but all I saw was jealousy written all over her face. I smirked internally. Being used by three men, ruined… was she envious of that too? No, she envied the one-third chance I had of carrying Logan’s child. Thinking of this, I instinctively touched my lower abdomen. But this small movement made Ivy explode. “A bastard with an unknown father! What are you proud of? Do you deserve it?!” Worried Logan might hear, I played dumb. “Ivy, what are you saying? I don’t understand. I don’t know why Logan took me for a paternity test, but it’s definitely his child!” She was frantic with jealousy. “Who allowed you to carry his child? Who allowed it! I can’t give him a child, and neither can you!” With that, she shoved me hard. My heels caught on the stairs, and I fell backward. The world spun, pain everywhere, especially in my stomach. Hearing the noise, Logan rushed out. Ivy threw herself onto the floor, screaming: “I call you sister-in-law, see you’re pregnant, come to help clean up, and you hit me?!” “Why did you throw yourself down? Are you trying to frame me? I didn’t push you! Scarlett, why are you doing this to me!” Then, pretending to just see Logan, she sobbed in my defense: “Logan, don’t worry about me, check on Scarlett. She fell down accidentally.” Logan saw the red marks on Ivy’s exposed skin, guilt flashing in his eyes. He quickly took off his jacket and covered her. “Ivy, are you hurt? I’ll take you to the hospital!” “I’m fine, just my leg hurts a bit. Scarlett looks worse…” He gave me a cold look, picked Ivy up, and yelled at me, “Don’t think I didn’t hear! Ivy came to help out of kindness. I didn’t know you were so ungrateful!” Lying on the floor, feeling my eyelids heavy, I trembled out an explanation: “No, I didn’t, she pushed—” “Stop playing the victim! Framing Ivy? You can’t even lie well. She’s frail, can’t even open a bottle cap. Could she push you? Besides, Ivy is kind-hearted. What reason would she have? Scarlett, when did you become like this?!” He carried Ivy downstairs, kicking me like a dog as he passed. “If you like lying there, stay there! Just don’t block the way!” Ivy turned her head and gave me a provocative smile. The sound of the car engine faded. My vision went black. But I couldn’t sleep. The pain in my stomach wasn’t normal. Logan wouldn’t come back for me. I had to save myself. After a long while, I gathered enough strength to grab the railing and stand up. Afraid of what might flow out, I didn’t dare call a cab. I walked to the hospital. The night nurse saw blood on my lower body and my pain, quickly registering me. Looking at my chart from the day, the doctor sighed. “Miss, who does a puncture at three weeks? The fetus wasn’t even stable! Your uterus contracted from the trauma, plus the fall… the baby probably won’t make it.” After the exam, the doctor scolded me anxiously. “You can really tolerate pain. Delaying so long with heavy bleeding? Do you want to die?!” I let out a long breath and laughed. “Doctor, just give me the abortion surgery.” From the moment I knew the truth, every second I felt nauseated by the unresponsive fetus in my belly. Gone. Good. This pregnancy was like a dream. Waking up, it’s all over.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “389205”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel