Reunited with my birth parents for three months, our family went broke. Caroline and Robert took Isabella, my adopted sister, to work in another city. Before they left, they only gave me three hundred dollars and told me to wait at home. Three years later, I was diagnosed with stomach cancer. I couldn’t help but call Caroline and Robert. Caroline cried, saying: “Robert fell from a construction site earning your tuition, and he’s still in the ICU. We really don’t have any money for you, Amelia!” I rushed out of the hospital, taking a thirty-hour train ride to their city. I was dying. All the money I’d saved these past years, I’d leave it for Robert’s life-saving treatment. But when I found them, they were living in a huge mansion, celebrating Isabella’s eighteenth birthday. I overheard Caroline saying: “She asked me for money. I can’t believe we’ve been pretending to be poor for three years, and she’s still so greedy. She’ll definitely try to snatch Isabella’s inheritance later.” Robert immediately called the landlord and told them to kick me out, saying I needed to suffer a bit more. Caroline hesitated: “But won’t she be homeless then?” But Caroline, this hypocritical family, I don’t want it anymore.

So, the supposed bankruptcy, the “struggle” to support me, it was all a cruel charade, a “tough love” lesson orchestrated to keep me from competing with Isabella for their fortune. I crouched down, a gush of black blood spilling from my mouth. The pain in my lower abdomen had spread to my heart. I turned clumsily, wanting to leave. But then I heard Caroline’s surprised voice from behind. “Mr. Davies said she wasn’t home. They saw her buy a train ticket here yesterday. She wouldn’t be coming to find us, would she?” They frantically changed into janitor and security guard uniforms. Isabella sat on the side, looking annoyed, refusing to take off her ball gown no matter what. My phone showed Caroline calling. Her voice was incredibly gentle: “Honey, Mr. Davies just told us you came to the city where your father and I work. Is that true?” “Where are you? Robert and I will come pick you up, okay?” I spoke softly: “I’m at the train station.” Caroline said sweetly: “Good girl, sweetheart, we’re coming to pick you up right away.” After hanging up, Caroline’s gentle demeanor vanished. She said irritably: “See? I told you! She won’t give up until she gets money, and now she’s here, isn’t she?” “Why is our biological daughter so cunning and selfish?” Robert sighed: “She’s definitely picked up some bad habits out there. Looks like we’ll need to think of another way to ‘teach her a lesson.’” “But it’s okay, we still have Isabella, don’t we? We’ll just focus on raising Isabella well.” Their words pierced my heart like daggers. Slowly, I wiped the blood from the corner of my mouth and turned to walk away. I walked several blocks before a cake shop caught my eye. A towering eighteen-tier cake, displayed in the window with a hefty price tag, was identical to the one Caroline and Robert gave Isabella. A store clerk greeted me warmly. “This cake was custom-ordered by a famous local entrepreneur, Mr. Miller, for his beloved daughter’s eighteenth birthday.” “Mr. Miller even had jewels and diamonds encrusted on that cake. It costs hundreds of times more than this one!” “His daughter is so lucky, pampered like a little princess.” But she didn’t know that the girl standing before her, in faded, old clothes, was also Mr. Miller’s daughter. Yet, I had nothing. “Would you like to buy a small slice to try?” But even a small slice was beyond my means. On the street, a crying child threw his cake box on the ground, wailing: “I don’t like this flavor; I want strawberry!” His parents gently coaxed him: “Okay, we’ll go buy you some now.” I walked over and quietly asked: “Can I have this cake?” They looked at me with surprise and pity, then nodded. I bent down and picked up the cake box, holding it like a precious treasure as I sat by the roadside. Carefully, I put the broken pieces of cake into my mouth. So, this is what cake tastes like. So sweet, but why does it also taste salty? I wiped away a tear, wanting another bite, when the cake was snatched from my hand. “Isabella! What are you doing picking up garbage to eat? It’s so dirty! Throw it away!” Caroline threw the cake directly into the trash can. “Sister, you’ve been back for three years, why are you still acting so destitute? Picking up trash? It’s disgusting.” Behind her, Isabella stood in a gorgeous dress, her face full of disdain. Caroline glared at Isabella. Seeing me staring at Isabella’s dress, Caroline guiltily explained to me: “Your sister just started working at an event venue, doing hostess work to earn money. This dress was lent to her.” “Now, hurry up and take it off! If you ruin it, we can’t afford to pay for it!” Isabella pouted, saying nothing. Caroline seemed to remember something, grabbed my hand, her eyes full of feigned sympathy. “Robert and I have been so busy, we completely forgot it was your birthday today. My dear, what would you like for your birthday?” My voice was hoarse. I pointed at the utterly ruined cake on the ground and said: “I want a cake.” Caroline lowered her head, looking troubled: “It’s our fault, we’re not capable enough. That cake is too expensive; we can’t afford it. How about I make you noodles when we get home?” I remained silent. Seeing that I didn’t object, Caroline sighed in relief and pulled me, wanting to leave. But after only a few steps, the pain in my abdomen made it almost impossible to stand. I collapsed to my knees in the snow. Caroline’s panicked cries echoed in my ears. “Don’t scare me! What’s wrong with you?!” 2 The next time I woke, I was in a hospital bed. Caroline and Robert, seeing me awake, hugged me with red eyes: “It’s all our fault…” Seeing their guilty expressions, my heart ached. I felt a little anxious. Did they know I had stomach cancer? Were they finally going to tell me the truth? Would they regret tricking me, even a little bit? I murmured: “Did the doctor tell you the test results…?” Caroline froze, then looked away guiltily and said: “Our family is too poor… we don’t have money for your tests. I think you just got a stomachache from eating that cake from the trash. I asked the doctor to give you some painkillers… See? Don’t you feel much better now?” I stared at her blankly. Caroline stood up and pulled me: “Since you’re awake, let’s go home with me. The hospital fees are too expensive; we don’t have any money left.” It felt like my tears were flowing backward, straight into my heart, leaving a bitter ache in my chest. The door to the hospital room burst open, and several fierce-looking men stormed in. “When are you going to pay back the thirty thousand dollars you owe us?!” “If you don’t pay up, we’ll break your legs!” Caroline immediately pleaded. “Please, can you give us a few more days? We really don’t have any money because of the medical bills.” Robert looked surprised but, catching Caroline’s eye, he immediately reacted. “Please give us a few more days. We’ve been working really hard. My youngest daughter even started working at a club. We’ll pay you back soon.” The men sneered: “What good is one daughter working? Don’t you have another one here?” “Let this little girl go work at the club too. As soon as she earns enough to pay off the debt, we’ll bring her back.” Caroline and Robert repeatedly refused. “No, you can’t take our precious daughter! We’re working so hard precisely so she can have a good life!” But they didn’t move an inch, watching with expectant eyes as I was dragged away. Just before I was shoved into the van, Caroline suddenly panicked and called my name. “Amelia…” “Robert and I are so sorry. We’ll gather the money soon and bring you home.” I lowered my eyes, not looking at them. I was thrown into the kitchen, where piles of dishes stood before me. I wanted to tell them that I knew Caroline and Robert had hired them to give me a “hardship education.” I wanted to beg them to let me go. But as soon as I opened my mouth, I was slapped several times and knocked down. If I moved too slowly, I’d get a kick to the stomach. They held my head under the faucet, watching me gasp until my eyes rolled back, then they laughed and let go. They talked loudly: “Talk about different fates! Both are daughters, but one’s stuck here scrubbing dishes, while the other’s popping champagne bottles outside. Tsk, tsk, who cares if she’s the ‘real’ daughter? If she’s not favored, she’s still treated like trash.” A man holding a drink glass grabbed me from the floor: “The big boss outside wants you to deliver drinks. Hurry up.” I was pushed to the private room door. Inside the room, a dazzling Isabella was surrounded by her friends. The supervisor behind me kicked me in. “What are you waiting for?!” Numbly, I stepped forward and set down the drinks. A girl shrieked, knocking over a bottle of wine. She pointed at me: “Why didn’t you hold the bottle properly?! Look, you stained my dress!” “Supervisor! What are you going to do about this?!” Brenda immediately understood. She grabbed me, pressed me onto the broken glass, and slapped me with all her might. Her friend said: “Not enough! This dress cost me thousands! Do it again!” Punches and kicks rained down on me until I couldn’t get up anymore. Only then did Isabella nod in satisfaction. She walked over, smiling, and said to me: “Amelia! Surprised to see me here, aren’t you?” “You didn’t really think I was slaving away in this filthy place like you, did you? You didn’t really think this dress was given to me by the club, did you?” “You’re so naive. Caroline and Robert lied to you! They never went bankrupt. They just pretended to be poor because they were afraid you’d fight me for the inheritance.” “While you were back home, poor and scavenging for scraps on the streets, Caroline and Robert bought me an entire closet full of jewelry, luxury goods.” “Who cares if you’re the biological daughter? You still can’t compete with me.” She wanted to see hatred and despair on my face. But there was none. I clutched my abdomen and said. “I won’t fight you, Isabella. Will you please let me go?” “I’ll cut ties with them. From now on, they’ll be only your parents.” She scoffed, grabbed my hair, and poured a glass of liquor down my throat. “Do you think I’ll believe that crap you’re spewing?” “Stomach pain, huh? Drink more and just die of the pain. If you die, no one will fight me for Caroline and Robert.” The burning alcohol seared my stomach, and the pain made me convulse uncontrollably. I mustered all my strength and pushed Isabella away. She shrieked and fell to the floor. The rest room door was abruptly pushed open, and Caroline and Robert rushed in, pushing me aside with worried looks. “Isabella, are you okay? Did the glass cut you?” “Amelia, didn’t you see the glass all over the floor? How could you push your sister like that? What if you hurt her?!” I looked at Caroline and Robert, who were so panicked and worried that they forgot to maintain their pretense of poverty. My heart felt like it had been ripped open. So, they had been here all along… But why did they ignore my suffering? 3 “Sister, you just hate us for pretending to be poor and tricking you. Go ahead and hit me, I won’t fight back. But you can’t curse Caroline and Robert, calling them liars who deserve to die.” Caroline and Robert looked at me with extreme disappointment. “This was Caroline’s and my idea; it has nothing to do with your sister. How dare you hit her?!” “We only pretended to be poor because you were too greedy and out of control.” Caroline and Robert listed my supposed transgressions one by one. “When we first brought you home, you were so envious and jealous of Isabella, you went into her room in the middle of the night and cut up all her dresses!” “And all those missing pieces of Isabella’s jewelry? They were eventually found in your room…” I clenched my fists, staring at them in disbelief. Robert’s gaze grew even colder: “That time you stole Isabella’s most valuable necklace, you insisted on calling the police.” “Do you have any idea how priceless that jewelry was? If we’d pressed charges, you’d be facing at least ten years in prison! For your sake, we pulled every string, telling the police to drop the investigation. We even made your sister apologize to you to make you happy. What did we ever do to you that you hate us so much?!” Caroline said with red eyes: “Robert and I had it all planned out. As long as you didn’t ask us for money for these three years, and learned to endure hardship.” “We would tell you the truth, bring you home, and split the company and inheritance equally between you and Isabella.” “But you disappointed us so much. Just because we pretended to be poor and you couldn’t enjoy yourself, you wished death upon us.” I trembled uncontrollably. “So, you never believed me.” “So, every time you said you believed those things weren’t my doing, it was all a lie.” I rubbed my eyes and said softly: “If you dislike me so much, then I won’t be your daughter anymore.” I struggled to my feet and stumbled out. “Amelia! You stop right there! We just said a few things to you, asking you to apologize! And now you want to cut ties with us?!” Caroline’s voice was furious: “Get back here!” Seeing that I still ignored her, Caroline grew anxious and shouted at me. “If you’re leaving, leave everything we gave you behind!” “The clothes you’re wearing, we bought them for you! If you hate us so much, then don’t use them!” Seeing me stop, she sighed in relief, but still said coldly: “Apologize to Robert and me! Apologize now, and we won’t hold it against you that you failed this test.” “However, you’re very disobedient, so don’t even think about our company and inheritance.” “But, since you’re our biological daughter, we’ll still make sure you have enough to eat.” I shook my head, reached out, and took off my worn-out coat, sweater, shirt, and pants. Until I was left with only thin underwear, Caroline cried and rushed over, picking up the coat and throwing it over me. She hit me as she covered me. “Why are you so disobedient, child?! Do you want to drive Robert and me to our graves?!” “Is it so hard to admit you made a mistake?” I was the one who was hurt, yet she was the one crying. I pulled off the coat she had draped over me and turned to walk out. Suddenly, Isabella’s shout came from behind. “My money is gone from my bag! Who stole my money?!” Everyone exchanged glances. Isabella pulled a cheap button from her bag, identical to a button on my shirt. Caroline suddenly looked up at me.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “322486”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #重生Reborn

Fresh out of college, I decided to move in with three of my roommates. The apartment was mine, right in the heart of the city and a short walk from my office-a world away from the dump they’d been sharing out in the suburbs. For three months, everything was perfect. Harmonious, even. Then one day, I came home early from work and found them-Madison, Brittany, and Jessica-huddled in the living room, voices low. “I looked it up,” Madison was saying, her tone hushed but eager. “A place this size in this neighborhood goes for at least ten thousand a month. We’re only paying four, right? What if we sublet the master bedroom? We could pocket an extra four thousand.” “Let’s do it,” Brittany cut in, her voice sharp. “Why should Chloe get that whole room to herself?” “I’ve always hated her superior act,” Jessica added with a sneer. “Just thinking about her ending up on the street is already satisfying.” Listening to their plan, a slow smile touched my lips. They wanted to see me homeless? Funny, since I was the landlord.

The voices from inside carried on. “Anyway, the lease is up in three days. We just won’t renew hers.” “Serves her right! Who does she think she is, ordering us around like that?” “And that story about it being her ‘relative’s’ place? That’s why it’s so cheap and we should ‘take good care of it’? Please.” “I actually reached the real landlord. He agreed to rent to us next quarter-same price.” Just like that, in a few sentences, they decided my fate. But they’d forgotten one thing. After graduation, they couldn’t afford anywhere near work. They were stuck in a cramped apartment way out in the suburbs, waking up at four every morning for a three-hour commute by bus and train. It was out of pity that I lied. I told them my “relative” owned a place we could get cheap, and invited them to live with me. This apartment was actually a graduation gift from my parents. It was right next to my office, a five-minute walk away. Prime real estate, four bedrooms, two bathrooms-it was never hard to rent out. My parents had always taught me to be discreet about money, so I never revealed I was the landlord. I just symbolically collected a thousand dollars in rent from each of them, covering all utilities and maintenance fees myself. Now, my kindness had been completely twisted. Taking a deep breath, I pushed open the door. The laughter inside abruptly ceased, and the air instantly froze. Madison was the first to react, forcing a smile onto her face. “Chloe, you’re home early today. Have you eaten? We made noodles, you should have some.” She pulled me to sit at the dining table. She cleared her throat and began, “Chloe, the landlord called to ask if we’re renewing the lease.” I kept my head down, eating my noodles, not saying a word. She secretly watched my expression, then continued, “We’re not planning to renew.” My hand paused, and I looked up, feigning a bewildered look. “We found a cheaper place,” she said, her eyes darting nervously. “You asked us to move in with you because the rent for the whole place was too much for you alone, right? Now that we’re not renting, you’ll move out too, won’t you?” My voice was flat. “No worries. If you guys aren’t renting, I can take the whole place myself. I just finished a big project at work and I’m getting a nice bonus.” Madison’s face visibly changed. “But it’s such a big place, isn’t it a waste for just one person? Listen to me, you should get a smaller studio. You could save a lot of money.” If I hadn’t overheard their scheming with my own ears, I might have actually believed she was looking out for me. “I’m used to living here. Too lazy to move.” “Chloe!” Brittany, who had been quiet until now, finally snapped. She slammed her fork down on the table. “We wanted to spare you some dignity, but you’re being incredibly dense!” “Fine, I’ll spell it out for you. We don’t want to live with you anymore. We hope you’ll move out willingly, don’t make us have to get ugly!” I stared at her coldly. “I found this place. I signed the contract. Why should I be the one to move out just because you say you’re not renting anymore?” Jessica, who had been quiet until now, finally spoke up. “Chloe, it’s been awkward living with you. If we keep going like this…I don’t think we can even stay friends.” Jessica was my best friend. Her family was a mess. Her mother left after she was born. Her dad gambled and drank, and took his anger out on her when he was drunk. She fought her way into college anyway, only for her father to try and sell her off. One night, I helped her run away. I helped her apply for student loans, and throughout college, I shared every bit of my living expenses with her. We scraped by, and I supported her until she graduated. After graduation, I couldn’t bear seeing her frail frame squeezed onto buses and subways every day. That’s why I suggested we rent together. And to spare her pride, I even brought the other two in. Jessica bit her lip,  looking at me with timid eyes. “You’ve always put me first, Chloe. Please just agree to move out today. We can still be good friends.” I looked at her blankly, then suddenly laughed. “Fine, I’ll move.” Their eyes lit up at my words. They kept telling me that even if I moved out, we’d still be good friends. I didn’t want to hear another word from them, so I turned and went back to my room. Closing the door, I pulled out my phone and called my dad’s contact. “Raise the rent to twelve thousand.”

It wasn’t long before there was a knock on my door. I opened it to find the three of them standing outside, glaring furiously at me. Brittany shoved me hard. “You contacted the landlord to raise the rent, didn’t you?!” My back hit the corner of a table, making me wince in pain. Jessica’s eyes were red. “How about this, Chloe? If you talk to your relative and tell him to rent to us for four thousand again, and you move out of the master bedroom, we’re still willing to live with you.” I crossed my arms, looking at her with cold eyes. “Where would I sleep?” “You can just sleep on the couch, can’t you?” Madison replied, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. “I’m paying rent, and I have to sleep on the couch?” “Get real, you’re the one clinging to us, desperate to stay. Letting you sleep on the couch is already pretty generous.” Jessica took my arm. “We’re good friends, how could I not think of you? I’ve already found you a new place. It’s fully furnished, you can just move right in. Most importantly, it’s only ten feet from your office. Perfect for a workaholic like you.” “Where is it?” She covered her mouth, stifling a giggle. “In the security guard’s doghouse, of course!” “Right outside the company’s security office! How’s that for close? And in winter, the guard dog can even keep you warm for free!” Brittany chimed in mockingly, “Oh, wow, and you call yourself her best friend, telling her to live in a doghouse? How mean! But…” Her gaze landed on me, a nasty smirk on her face. “Chloe, remember to pay Jessica a finder’s fee! Fully furnished places like that are hard to come by!” Jessica waved her hand. “We’re friends, no need for a finder’s fee.” I watched their performance coldly, not saying a word. Jessica looked at me, her face serious. “Chloe, living with you has been utterly exhausting, mentally and physically. You’re such a control freak. You wouldn’t let us put anything on the walls, wouldn’t let us decorate our rooms. You even nagged us about a single strand of hair on the floor. We just couldn’t stand it anymore.” “You’ve driven me to depression. For next quarter’s rent, why don’t you pay for us? Consider it compensation for our emotional distress.” I almost laughed out loud. I didn’t let them stick things on the walls because the emulsion paint was custom-mixed. Once damaged, it was almost impossible to restore it perfectly. I didn’t let them decorate their rooms because they wanted to knock down a load-bearing wall to expand their space. I nagged them about hair because they never cleaned the drain after washing their hair. It clogged the plumbing, flooded the downstairs neighbor’s apartment, and I had to quietly pay a huge sum to settle it. In the six months they’d lived here, the money I’d shelled out far exceeded their paltry rent payments. Now, they wanted me to pay them for emotional damages? What a joke! “Either you move out, or I move out, and you pay the twelve thousand rent yourselves.” With that, I closed the door. Outside, their furious shouts erupted. “Chloe, you’re really asking for it, aren’t you?!” “Don’t you dare push us!”

The next day, I got off work at 11 PM. When I reached my front door, I froze. My luggage was piled in the hallway like trash. I tried the door code several times, but it wouldn’t open. They had clearly changed the password. A surge of anger shot to my head. I dialed my dad. “Dad, can you send a driver over? I need something delivered…” Hanging up, I started banging hard on the door. Bang, bang, bang. My knocking echoed piercingly in the dead of night. The noise drew complaints from neighbors, who came out to demand why I was disturbing the peace. Someone even called security. More and more people gathered. There was movement inside the door. Click. The door opened. Brittany, wearing pajamas and a face mask, frowned. “What’s with all the racket in the middle of the night, Chloe? You’re ruining my beauty sleep!” I forced myself to suppress my rage, pointing at my luggage on the floor. “How dare you throw my things out?” Hearing the commotion, Jessica walked up, looking at me timidly. “Chloe, we really had no choice. Please, just do us a favor and leave us alone…” She shot a glance at Madison, who caught it instantly. Madison raised her voice, calling out to the neighbors and the security guard. “Everyone, you be the judge! We’re her roommates, and she brings different men home every night. The noise from her room is so loud we can’t even sleep!” Then she turned to me, putting on a pleading tone. “We know you have…a special job, and you have to work at night. We don’t judge what you do, but we have to get up for work in the morning! Please, just find another place to live.” The moment she finished, the neighbors’ eyes shifted toward me-full of disgust, as if I were something filthy. Jessica offered the crowd an apologetic bow. “I’m so sorry, everyone. Her lease is up, and we’ve made it clear we won’t renew. Even the landlord won’t rent to her anymore. But she just won’t leave, so we had no choice…We’re really sorry for keeping you all up so late.” The neighbors began to whisper. “She looks so decent. How could she do such dirty work?” “No wonder she comes home at all hours…” “Just our luck, living on the same floor as her!” A middle-aged woman jabbed a finger toward me, furious. “Weren’t you the one blasting music that night? The bass was shaking my ceiling. I didn’t sleep a wink!” I’d been away on a business trip all last week and only got back yesterday. Brittany’s face flashed with guilt before she pointed at me. “Yes! It was her!” Another neighbor stepped forward. “And wasn’t it your hair that clogged the drain and flooded my place last time?” Jessica, who had the longest hair and never cleaned the drain, paused for a beat before frowning at me. “Chloe, how many times do I have to tell you? Clean your hair out of the drain after you shower. Why do you never listen?” “And wasn’t she the one who wanted to tear down a wall? She practically put the whole building at risk!” Madison, who had been the one wanting to knock down a wall to enlarge her room, rubbed her nose. “Yeah, that was her! We tried to stop her, but she wouldn’t back down!” The neighbors’ anger was fully ignited. “She’s a menace! Get her out of our building!” “Security! Kick her out immediately!” “Call the police, arrest her!” Seeing the situation, the security guard grabbed my arm and tried to drag me away. Furious and desperate, I yelled, “I’m the landlord! You can’t just kick me out!” Brittany scoffed. “If you’re the landlord? I’ll eat dirt!” Jessica put on a trouble look. “Chloe, I’ve already called the landlord. He’ll be here any minute. If you leave now, at least you’ll save face. It’ll be so much worse if he has to drag you out himself.” I was trembling with rage. “Fine! Call the landlord! I’d like to see who dares to throw me out!” “Who’s looking for me?”

I turned to see a sleazy-looking guy with dyed hair, swaying as he walked over. “I’m the landlord. You looking for me?” He squinted, looking me up and down. “Where’s Mr. Peterson?” I frowned. My apartment had always been managed by Mr. Peterson, a very responsible property manager. “You did your homework, huh? You even know my uncle’s last name. Let me tell you, my uncle’s out of town. This place is my responsibility now!” He pointed at my nose. “I’ve heard all about your little drama from these pretty ladies. I’m not renting my place to someone as morally corrupt as you! Be smart, grab your junk, and get out!” I looked at him coldly. “Do you even know whose name is on the deed before telling me to leave?” “It’s my uncle’s place. Of course his name is on it. Not yours, got it?” The thug, Damon, smirked. Jessica tried to smooth things over. “Chloe, just stop. The landlord’s here. Accept it.” Damon ignored me, strutting into the apartment to look around. When he came back out, he snarled, “Hey! Where’s the LEGO set from the TV stand? Did you steal it!” “That was a limited edition, worth two hundred grand! Hand it over now!” That LEGO set? My niece, Lily, loved it last time she visited, so I gave it to her. “It’s my stuff. Do I need to inform you if I give it away?” “Your stuff? That’s the landlord’s-my uncle’s-stuff!” Damon stomped his foot in anger. Madison immediately jumped in to support him. “We can testify! That LEGO set was here since we moved in. How could it be yours? It clearly belongs to the landlord!” Jessica frowned. “Chloe, you really should get it back. Stealing is a crime. If the landlord calls the police, you’ll be in big trouble.” I watched their charade, finding it utterly absurd. “Then call the police.” My indifferent attitude completely enraged Damon. “You bitch! Stealing and acting so arrogant?!” He slapped me across the face. Smack! The crisp sound rang out, my ears buzzed, and I tasted blood in my mouth. Jessica held back Damon, who looked like he was about to hit me again. “Stop, stop. It’s hard to get back something that’s already been given away. Chloe, why don’t you just pay him some money? Since the landlord says it’s worth a hundred grand, just pay him two hundred grand. You… you make good money, it’s just pocket change for you. Pay him quickly, and this whole thing will be over.” I laughed, a humorless sound. That LEGO set looked big, but it was actually a model I bought for three thousand dollars. I finally understood. They had been secretly colluding with Damon, setting a trap to extort money from me. Seeing I was unmoved, Damon shoved me again. “Damn it, did you hear me?! Pay up! Two hundred grand! Every penny! Otherwise, you won’t be leaving this hallway upright tonight!” “I told you, that’s my property!” “Damn it, you’re asking for it!” Damon cursed, raising his hand for another slap. He hit me, and I stumbled backward, falling to the ground. My vision blurred. Brittany’s eyes darted around, and she pointed at my luggage, screaming, “She’s a thief! I need to check her luggage carefully, in case she stole any of my stuff too!” With that, she squatted down and started rummaging through my suitcase. She pulled out a gold necklace, a flash of envy in her eyes, then turned and shouted, “Oh my god! My gold necklace! It’s been missing for ages, I can’t believe I found it here!” “Jessica, Madison! Come help me search! She must have stolen a lot of our things!” Madison’s eyes lit up at the news, and she also started tearing through my luggage. They were like vultures, pulling out jewelry and brand-name cosmetics from my bags. They claimed everything was theirs, stuffing them into their pockets without a word. The other neighbors watching also began to stir restlessly. Jessica smiled sweetly at the crowd. “Everyone, feel free to look around too. See if she stole any of your things.” As soon as she spoke, the crowd surged forward like a swarm of locusts. CRASH. The trophy I won in college was smashed to pieces on the floor. RIP! The sweater my mom hand-knitted for me was torn to shreds. My down jacket was ripped open, feathers flying everywhere. I even saw a creepy middle-aged man pick up my underwear, sniff it deeply, then stuff it into his pocket. “Stop! All of you, stop!” I screamed, rushing forward to intervene, only to be roughly shoved back to the ground. Jessica looked down at me, a sickeningly innocent smile on her face. “Do you think the things she stole might be hidden on her body?” All eyes snapped to me. Damon licked his lips. “Strip her. Let’s see what else she’s hiding!” I yelled, “Touch me once, and I swear none of you will walk away clean!” “Oh yeah? Show me.” Damon reached for my collar. I fought like a wild thing, but Brittany and Madison pinned my arms and legs down. Jessica pulled out her phone and took a photo of me at my weakest. She mouthed three silent words. “You deserve it.” In that moment, I truly regretted ever letting these wolves into my home! “Excuse me, is Miss Chloe here?” A driver, sent by my father, stood holding a document envelope. “I have a document for her.” While everyone was still stunned, I gathered the last of my strength and shoved the people holding me down away. I ran toward the driver and tore open the envelope. Inside was the bright red property deed. I held the document high, my voice sharp and clear. “Look carefully! I am the landlord!”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “321856”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #重生Reborn

The Speech That Stole My Mind Everyone said Julian Thorne, the genius scion of the Thorne family, was a master manipulator. He’d kept Scarlett Hayes, the fearless heiress to a billionaire fortune, by his side for seven years without a title or public recognition. All she wanted was for Julian to conquer the research on Alzheimer’s disease so he could finally marry her properly. But even as his company, started from scratch, effortlessly broke into the global top ten, his progress on Alzheimer’s research remained at zero. I didn’t blame Julian. I just silently straightened his messy tie before he left for the forum. Julian didn’t know that while the whole world celebrated his career’s success, I had just received my Alzheimer’s diagnosis. That wedding, it seemed, I’d never get. Soon, I would forget him, and even forget who I am. 1 “She shouldn’t be, she’s only in her twenties. How can she have a disease like Alzheimer’s?” The doctor’s words echoed in my mind. Even after I got home, they didn’t stop. The computer screen beside me flickered off. Four hours earlier, clinging to a final sliver of hope, I had searched for news of cured Alzheimer’s cases. But the news laid out the cruelest facts right in front of me. Losing basic motor functions, Unprovoked violent outbursts, Incontinence. These were all symptoms of late-stage Alzheimer’s. No one was spared. My chest ached, a dull, heavy pain. I closed the page, trying to temporarily escape the nightmare, but accidentally clicked on a folder. His entire family were doctors. Only by solving pressing medical challenges could one inherit the position of family head, marry, and start a family. As a once-in-a-generation genius, Julian had voluntarily increased the difficulty, stating he would only marry after his startup finance company achieved success and renown, and he had solved a major medical problem. With dual Ph.D.s in medicine and finance, he believed only by reaching the pinnacle of both fields could he live up to the family’s investment in his education and upbringing over the years. Coincidentally, the medical challenge Julian chose was Alzheimer’s disease. But now, the folder for Alzheimer’s research was an empty shell; not even the first step had been taken. Beside it, the plans for how his new company would go public and break into world rankings had been executed flawlessly. I stared blankly at the screen. Suddenly realizing a devastating truth. For seven years, Julian Thorne had never intended to marry me. The moment the screen went dark, the door suddenly opened. I instinctively swept the scattered medical reports off the table. Julian, however, frowned slightly at the open laptop. “Can you please not touch my things when I’m not around?” Julian closed the laptop, abruptly changing the subject. “Can you help me find my tie?” “There’s a charity event tonight I need to attend.” “I need to look formal.” In the drawer, His ties were perfectly categorized by color, neatly placed in small boxes. I found the most suitable one and handed it to Julian. “We’ve lived here for five years now.” “You really should start remembering where things are.” My reminder made a flicker of impatience cross Julian’s features. “It’s just a small thing, isn’t that what I have you for?” Julian packed the laptop from the table into his bag. Watching him skillfully tie his tie, I suddenly felt like I didn’t know him at all. I met Julian’s gaze in the mirror. It felt like only today I had caught a glimpse of the real man beneath the surface. Watching his back as he closed the door, a completely ordinary sight, I couldn’t control my tears, letting them stream down my face. The doctor said that within a year, my memory would be severely impaired. Forget remembering where his ties were; I might not even know who I was. Choking back a sob, I dialed a number. “Dr. Harrison, it’s me.” “I’m willing to donate my body, to provide you with a young patient sample for Alzheimer’s research.” Since Julian never intended to marry me, that wedding I would never get, I didn’t want it anymore.

All night, Julian didn’t come home. As the CEO of a startup that had broken into the global top ten in just seven years, he was a hot commodity. Changes to his schedule were common. The doctor settling back into his chair pulled me back to reality. The latest report lay on the table. My brain’s deterioration was progressing faster than average. Perhaps in half a year, I would forget everything. I quietly absorbed the devastating news. A familiar voice drew my attention. On the screen, Julian seemed to be giving an interview. The host’s laughter was hearty. “Mr. Thorne, have you ever wanted to thank a particular woman in your entrepreneurial journey?” Ever since Julian first made a name for himself, reporters had relentlessly dug into his private life. But not once had they managed to get a single scoop out of him. During his school days, Julian was a once-in-a-century genius. He skipped grades in elementary school, fast-tracked through high school, and completed all his university credits in just one year. He devoted himself entirely to his studies and career, never having any romantic entanglements. Just as everyone wondered what kind of partner this genius would choose, the news of Julian’s engagement to me broke. New York’s most notoriously wild and extravagant heiress, paired with a genius who only cared about books and had no sense of romance – somehow, they became a couple. The more desperately people tried to uncover the inside story, the more Julian refused to reveal anything. Just when I thought this interview would also end with his usual detached silence, Julian’s previously serious expression slowly softened, and his voice softened with tenderness. “Actually, for the company to achieve this ranking so smoothly, there is indeed a lady I need to thank.” In the hospital room, my heart pounded like a drum. “The person I want to thank…” “…is my company’s Chief Technical Officer, and also a junior from my undergraduate years—Chloe Jenkins.” The smile froze on my lips. The doctor’s pitiful gaze fell on me, and a thousand words of comfort compressed into a single sigh. Five years ago, a company employee called me, their voice urgent. “Ms. Hayes, can you reach Mr. Thorne? There’s another problem at the lab!” Opening the study door, I found Julian napping. Before I could speak, he opened his eyes and spoke first. “Are they looking for me?” Seeing me nod, a flicker of annoyance crossed Julian’s previously impassive face. My heart ached with sympathy and guilt. He had been working non-stop, pulling weeks of overtime abroad. I shouldn’t have disturbed him. As he was leaving, Julian looked down, his face tired. He said softly, “I’m really tired.” “I don’t understand why Mr. Miller and the others absolutely need me there.” “It seems like such a simple problem to me, but they just can’t figure it out.” It was the first time Julian had opened up emotionally, and I clumsily tried to comfort him. “Maybe it’s because you’re a genius.” He paused. “Do geniuses really have to bear more than normal people?” My heart ached for Julian. I spent an entire afternoon studying the company’s basic operational procedures and financial knowledge. I wanted to lighten his burden, to buy him some time to breathe in his suffocating schedule. But when I tried to discuss the company’s future strategies with him, Julian waved his hand dismissively, his face alight with undisguised delight. That day was the first time I heard Chloe Jenkins’ name. He said that Chloe, who had only started that afternoon, had solved all the problems before he even arrived at the office. He said that while the new girl was pretty, that was her least remarkable trait. Her charisma, decisiveness, and intelligence surpassed all the other employees in the company. Watching Julian speak animatedly about Chloe, my initial enthusiasm slowly faded. I tried to convince myself that I should be happy Julian had found a capable subordinate. I held my notebook, filled with meticulous notes, wanting to prove that his future wife was just as capable. “Don’t bother me.” “The company isn’t your playground. Add another dish my mother likes to the dinner menu tonight.” Two consecutive rejections made me realize that in his heart, I was never a teammate fighting alongside him. He was convinced I could only be a demure, virtuous, and ultimately useless rich wife. But Julian didn’t know that my notes were identical to the company development strategy he later formulated. The proposal I left on his desk slowly gathered dust, becoming a coaster for his coffee cup. Chloe Jenkins’ name, however, appeared in our conversations with increasing frequency. Julian’s daily commute was no longer his usual numb routine; he became anticipatory and appreciative. I started to feel uneasy. My old domineering personality resurfaced, and I demanded he take me to the company, to give me a position. But no matter what I tried, nothing worked. He just gave me a cold stare. Telling me to stop making a scene.

“Your tie today is very distinctive; it’s the perfect accent to your outfit.” “Mr. Thorne, do you usually have an interest in fashion?” The host’s question seemed to jar Julian. For the first time, he paused for three seconds before speaking. “My tie?” “My fiancée picked it out for me. Yes… for seven years, the company’s smooth operation has also been inseparable from her meticulous care and support behind the scenes. I’m very grateful to her, and I will definitely conquer the challenge of Alzheimer’s and marry her.” Those old vows now sounded like an empty promise. The person who would no longer be able to take care of him so meticulously wouldn’t be me. Soon, my memory would rapidly decline, and I would even wet myself, becoming a pathetic fool despised by everyone. I desperately wanted to ask Julian. At that time, would he regret not conquering Alzheimer’s and staying with me, or would he be relieved he never married me? Back home, I sat blankly on the sofa until evening. Julian opened the door, carrying a trendy strawberry cake from the new popular bakery down the street. That shop had an unspoken rule: a minimum purchase of two. Now, in the box, only one cake lay lopsidedly at the bottom. I couldn’t hold back, voicing the thought in my heart. “Was the other cake for Chloe Jenkins?” Julian stopped on his way to change clothes. “If you’re not going to eat it, I can take it back to the office tomorrow.” “There’s no need to make such pathetic assumptions, being so aggressive…” He turned, saw my tears rolling down my face, and the rest of his sentence caught in his throat. “Why is she the woman you’re most grateful for?” My voice trembled. “Why didn’t you even bother to tell me you didn’t come home last night?” Recalling all the little slights and compromises over the years, my vision blurred. “Why is Chloe Jenkins always ahead of me?” “Julian, it’s been seven years.” “Seven years! Have you ever actually thought about marrying me?” My heart ached with a dull pain with every breath. I didn’t hear his response, my eyes burned, and uncontrollable sobs echoed through the living room. I finally managed to steady my breathing. Wiping away my tears haphazardly, I unexpectedly met Julian’s utterly blank eyes. “Are you losing your mind?” “Once you’re done crying, go to bed early.” “Company matters are already bothering me enough; can you please stop adding to my troubles?” He closed the door and went into his room, leaving me alone in the living room. The TV reflected me: disheveled hair, cheeks flushed from crying, exhaustion in my eyes impossible to hide. I looked like a madwoman. I slept on the sofa all night. When I woke up, a soft, thin blanket was draped over me. Julian placed an iced coffee in my hand. “Your eyes are swollen from crying. Use the coffee to reduce the swelling.” He paused. “There’s a dinner party tonight. Do you want to come with me?” Seven years of engagement, and this was the first time Julian had ever actively brought me into the public eye. Seeing me nod, he reached out and ruffled my hair. “Okay, I’m heading to work then. I’ll send you the address later.” All afternoon, I prepared for the dinner party. I pulled out a gown I’d bought years ago but never had the occasion to wear. I put on the most perfect makeup. I didn’t even eat lunch, just to cinch myself into the perfect silhouette. In front of the mirror, I double-checked everything multiple times, and at the appointed time, I left, satisfied. But I had forgotten one thing: the stove in the kitchen was still on. The herbal tea I was preparing to drink was still brewing on high heat.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “321855”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #重生Reborn

I Don’t Love You Anymore I purposefully left the door open, ensuring my husband heard every single sound of me and my lover making love all night. The next morning, his eyes were bloodshot as he pinned me against the bed, demanding: “How many times did he satisfy you last night? Did he make you feel good? Why not me?” But I just tugged my bathrobe tighter over the angry red marks blossoming all over my body and shot back: “We’re just playing by our own rules now. Has your little nurse stopped satisfying you?” Daniel Blackwood’s gaze blazed red, but he couldn’t find a single word to refute me. The moment he caused our daughter’s death, our love story was over. I drove alone in the biting cold wind to the cemetery on the outskirts, searching for our daughter. As I passed the old site of the small clinic my dad used to own, tears streamed down my face. I had once been the youngest associate professor at the medical academy, but I’d given up the chance to study at a top-tier institution for my husband, Daniel Blackwood. That year, he was ambushed by a patient’s family after a malpractice suit, almost beaten to death. It was my dad who bit the bullet, selling the clinic he’d run for thirty years and draining his entire life’s savings just to pull him out of that legal mess. To help him establish himself in the hospital, my dad handed over his invaluable surgical notes and his entire network of professional contacts. He even sacrificed himself by self-testing an experimental drug, which caused acute liver failure, and he never recovered. That’s how Daniel Blackwood became the youngest chief surgeon in the city. I once naively believed that such a profound debt of gratitude would tie him to me for life. But everything changed the day he brought that nurse, Chloe Sterling, home. The Daniel Blackwood who once agonized over my slightest frown, tore my heart into a million pieces with his own hands. I’ll never forget it. My mother was in the late stages of lung cancer and needed a crucial imported targeted medication. To make Chloe Sterling happy, Daniel gave the drug to her purebred Ragdoll cat, which only had a skin condition. And I’ll never forget the day our daughter stopped breathing. Daniel Blackwood was in Chloe Sterling’s hospital room, intimately entangled with her. I found my daughter’s small niche in the cheapest public columbarium. A space no bigger than my palm, not even a photograph was placed there. Night fell, and I sat on the cold floor tiles. Just like I used to sing her to sleep, I hummed “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” all night, her favorite song. The next morning, I was jolted awake by a cacophony of shouting and cursing. Opening my eyes, I saw a crowd of neighbors from our community surrounding me, all filming with their phones: “That’s her! Mr. Blackwood’s crazy wife!” “Miss Sterling said she went insane last night and trashed our entire community garden!” “Those flowers and plants were just planted by the property management, they cost tens of thousands!” “Such a venomous woman! No wonder Mr. Blackwood locked her up!” Daniel Blackwood emerged from the crowd. His face was filled with a look of deep sorrow: “Neighbors, I apologize for not handling my family matters better. My wife, due to some misunderstandings, has suffered a mental breakdown, which led her to do this. I will cover all losses, please don’t blame her.” His words instantly cemented my reputation as a “lunatic.” I stared at the man I had loved with all my heart for so many years, shaking with fury: “Daniel Blackwood, you’re lying! I never left the cemetery last night!” “Still trying to deny it!” A security guard held up his phone. “The surveillance camera caught a woman’s back, and she was wearing exactly what you have on!” “This crazy woman is bad luck, and her daughter’s grave is bad luck too!” “Throw out the urn! Don’t let it dirty our cemetery!” I lunged forward to stop them, but several men held me down firmly. My face pressed against the cold floor tiles, tears mixing with dust, blurring my vision. All I could manage were guttural screams. They pried open the small niche and pulled out the black urn. I struggled desperately, and the urn crashed to the ground with a sickening thud. The lid flew open, and the grayish-white ashes scattered across the floor. A gust of wind blew through, stirring up a cloud of dust. I watched, helpless, as my daughter’s last trace in this world simply vanished. The crowd dispersed, muttering curses. Daniel Blackwood slowly walked over. He looked at me with complex emotions: “Sarah, you’ve always been so strong… It’s just a place for ashes. I’ll buy a better burial plot later…” “You know, Chloe Sterling has been pampered since childhood and has never suffered any grievances. What you did yesterday, sprinkling medication ash into her bowl, was truly too much.” I gritted my teeth, every word tinged with blood: “My daughter only had these ashes left in this world.” “I understand,” he sighed. “But if I don’t appease Chloe Sterling like this, what if her depression acts up? What if it affects the baby she’s carrying? Sarah, you should understand my difficulties.” He paused, his voice softening slightly: “Sarah, you need to be strong.”

Strong? What a cruel joke! My dad died of liver failure after participating in clinical trials to help Daniel develop a new drug. To spare Daniel any guilt, I forced myself to handle my father’s funeral arrangements alone, not shedding a single tear. My mother had late-stage lung cancer, and he gave the only imported life-extending medication to Chloe Sterling’s cat. Before my mother passed, she held my hand and said: “Daniel Blackwood… he probably has his difficulties, don’t resent him…” My throat tightened, tears welled in my eyes. But I forced them back. Yet all this pain I endured, the grievances I swallowed, the tears I held back— In his eyes, they became reasons for me to be “strong”? I laughed, my body shaking: “Daniel Blackwood, is Chloe Sterling’s mood more important than my daughter’s ashes?” “Can’t you be so petty? She didn’t mean it.” It was always like this; I was always in the wrong. It was the same before; I merely pointed out that she was prescribing the wrong medication to a patient. In her enraged fury, Daniel Blackwood locked me in the basement for a whole year. “Sarah, it’s been a year. Have you thought things through?” When Daniel Blackwood reopened the basement door, the light streaming in from outside stung my eyes. Chloe Sterling, visibly pregnant, walked over, feigning concern to help me up: “Be careful, Sarah. It’s damp down here, don’t fall.” Fall? I almost laughed. A year ago, the day I was locked in, our daughter had just taken her last breath. I knelt, grabbing Daniel Blackwood’s pant leg, my forehead bleeding from hitting the floor: “Please, save Lily! I swear I’ll never touch Chloe Sterling again!” He looked down at me, his eyes as cold as a surgical blade: “Sarah, you’re sick. How could Chloe Sterling harm a child? You’re the one losing your mind.” He embraced a trembling Chloe Sterling, his voice sickeningly tender: “Don’t be afraid. I’ve locked her up; no one will hurt you again.” Seeing a tenderness in his eyes I had never experienced, the blood in my veins ran cold. “Daniel Blackwood! My daughter is dead!” My reply was the *clunk* of a lock. To get out sooner and bury my daughter, I remained quiet, no tears, no tantrums. But by the time my daughter’s body began to decompose in the hospital morgue, Chloe Sterling, while I was asleep, had someone send the body directly to the crematorium. I frantically pounded on the door, my throat raw from screaming: “Daniel Blackwood! That’s your daughter! How could you let her die without a proper burial?!” My palms bled from hitting the door, and in return, rats were thrown in through the vent in the middle of the night. They bit my feet, gnawed at my fingers. I huddled in the corner, my wounds festering, my fever raging repeatedly. “Are you alright?” Chloe Sterling’s voice pulled me back to reality. I wiped the cold sweat from my forehead, looked up at Daniel Blackwood, my voice hoarse: “Where are Lily’s ashes?” No one answered. My heart sank, and I stumbled towards the children’s room on the second floor. I had decorated it myself when I was pregnant. The closer I got, the more my heart ached. But the moment I pushed open the door, I froze. The room was filled with lingerie, whips, and handcuffs. The walls were covered with nude oil paintings of Chloe Sterling. My fingers dug into the doorframe, my knuckles white. Daniel Blackwood’s footsteps approached from behind, his tone impatient: “I let you out not for you to cause a scene.” “The dead cannot be brought back to life, can’t you just move on?” “No!” I spun around and slapped him across the face. “This filthy place is your explanation to our daughter?! Daniel Blackwood, do you even deserve to be a father?!” “I’m only asking you, where are her ashes?” At the mention of our daughter, his gaze darted away. “Chloe Sterling is pregnant and emotionally unstable; I just painted some pictures to cheer her up…” “She’s suffering from prenatal depression, I couldn’t help it.” “Couldn’t help it?” When Chloe Sterling moved into my house, and neighbors pointed fingers at me, he pretended not to see—he couldn’t help it. When Chloe Sterling put peanuts, to which I’m severely allergic, in my soup, and I went into anaphylactic shock, he didn’t bat an eye—he couldn’t help it. When Chloe Sterling caused our daughter’s death, he protected her—he couldn’t help it. I laughed, tears streaming down my face: “All these ‘couldn’t help it’ moments have nearly cost me my life.” I rushed into the room, grabbed a paint can, and hurled it at the paintings. “Sarah Moore, have you gone mad?! What did Chloe Sterling ever do to you?!” Daniel Blackwood grabbed my wrist but suddenly froze. Beneath my sleeve, my arms were covered in festering wounds. “You… How did you get these? I explicitly ordered them to send you food every day, to take good care of you…” “I’m doing just fine.” “You can just kneel here. When you’ve reflected enough, then you can come back.” Daniel Blackwood’s cold voice brought me back to reality, and I pursed my lips, unable to utter a single word.

I knelt on the ground, my forehead pressed against my daughter’s tiny tombstone, sobbing inconsolably. “Sarah looks so pitiful like this.” Chloe Sterling’s voice drifted from behind me. “Even after all this, why won’t she be sensible and just get a divorce and leave?” She stood before me, her pregnant belly prominent, exuding the air of a victor: “But you know, everything you’re experiencing today, I planned it all, step by step.” She crouched down, leaned close to my ear, her voice laced with a smile: “I personally dragged your daughter out of the morgue and threw her into that stray dog den on the west side of town.” “I watched those dogs… tear her apart bit by bit, it was truly satisfying.” She paused, her tone laced with a hint of cruel pride: “Do you know how Daniel treated me when I came home that night, covered in the smell of blood?” “He held me… and took me all night.” “You bastard! You bitch!” I shrieked, scrambling to my feet, my hands clamping tightly around her throat. I was going to kill her! Avenge my daughter! Chloe Sterling’s face turned crimson, but she was still laughing: “Serves you right… Hahaha…” She found a nearby shovel handle and brought it down hard on my back. The searing pain made my vision go black. After more than a year of torment, my body was already broken. I collapsed to the ground like a rag doll, unable to move. I don’t know how much time passed, but then she crouched down again, dangling something in her hand. A soft *clinking* sound. My pupils contracted sharply— It was the string of golden pearls. Three years ago, before Daniel Blackwood’s heart surgery, I had flown to the Philippines, almost dying in the deep sea to collect them. Every single pearl was polished by my own hands. Chloe Sterling laughed mockingly: “Do you remember these? Actually, I should thank you for these pearls.” “Daniel loves to play with them in bed… one by one, he slowly inserted them…” “He said that way, he could feel your intentions.” The genuine affection I’d risked my life to acquire now felt like countless poisoned boomerangs piercing my heart. My chest tightened with a sharp pang, and nausea spread throughout my entire body. “Get out! Chloe Sterling, get out!” Her eyes were icy, her words venomous and vicious. “Sarah Moore, you deserve to die!” My vision swam, and I collapsed.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “321854”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #重生Reborn

My husband was the literary world’s most celebrated genius. Then one evening, he confessed to me. “Stella, my inspiration has run dry. I found someone online, an ‘inspiration provider.’ Ten thousand a month.” “But it’s just work. You are the only one I love.” later, I learned the truth. He and that provider, the one he had promised never to meet in person, already had a seven-year-old son. “Chloe, you must hide the child well. Don’t let anyone find out.” “After the new book launch, I’ll figure out a way to get Stella out of the picture, and give you and the child a proper place.” “Don’t worry, she’s just a clueless housewife.” I smirked, silently closing the message-sharing app on my phone. A way out? I’ll help you find one. How kind of me. Suddenly, the lock turned. Julian strode in as if he owned the place, an adult and a child trailing behind him. “What is this?” I sneered. My own voice sounded eerily calm. He turned awkwardly, a guilty smile on his lips. “Stella, you’re home! Perfect, let me introduce you.” “This is Chloe Hayes, the inspiration provider I mentioned. And this is her son, Leo.” Leo? How fitting. “Didn’t you promise you’d never meet in person?” I cut him off with a cold laugh. Julian’s expression tightened. He hadn’t expected me to be this direct. Chloe’s eyes welled up instantly. She stepped forward, a picture of wounded innocence. “Stella, please don’t blame Julian. This is all my fault. If my presence upsets you, I’ll leave right now.” She turned as if to go. “Don’t be ridiculous.” Julian quickly moved to block her path. He turned back to me, his face etched with impatience. “Enough, Stella, stop making a scene.” “I had no choice. This is all for my work.” “Can’t you see it? Chloe’s insights are brilliant. She’s a single mother, raising a child alone. That mix of strength and fragility she carries…it’s exactly what my writing needs. Having her here is purely to facilitate the creative process.” “A single mom? Sounds like a woman with a story.” “So?” I met his gaze, a dismissive curl to my lip. Julian frowned, annoyed. “For now, Chloe and the boy will stay here. I’ve had the guest room prepared. Everything else can wait until after the new book launches.” His tone sharpened abruptly. “And enough with the interrogation. Everything I do is for the work. There’s nothing personal in it.” I almost laughed. If I hadn’t been ready, I might have believed every solemn word. Three months ago, Julian did mention his writer’s block. He was, after all, the most celebrated literary genius of his time. Nearly every book he wrote became a sensation. But that night, he was smoking uncharacteristically. “Stella, I don’t think I can write anymore.” “Every word feels like a stone lodged in my mind…impossible to move..” My heart sank. At our wedding ten years ago, he had declared to everyone. “Meeting Stella was the beginning of all my inspiration.” But now, his eyes were as lost as a child’s. “Stella, I’m truly desperate. The pressure is crushing. The publisher has called three times. Readers ask about the new book every day on social media. The entire world is waiting.” “So I hired someone online-ten thousand a month. She shares life details and emotional stories through messages, just to spark something in me.” He suddenly looked up, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. “It’s a fair trade. She needs the money. I need the inspiration.” My breath hitched. “You won’t meet her in person?” “Of course not!” He grabbed my hands at once, his voice certain. “It’s strictly professional. Stella, don’t read into this. You’ll always be my wife. The only one I love.” And yet now, he was secretly planning how to remove me from his life. I sank slowly back into the couch and turned on the newest film. Julian, you didn’t really think I was just some useless housewife, did you?

The very next morning, Chloe was already at the dining table, wearing my clothes, her child beside her. She looked like a conqueror holding court. “Stella, you’re awake? Come, have breakfast..” “I heard you love soy milk, so I asked the housekeeper to make you a cup. Consider it a welcome gift.” She smiled, pushing the cup towards me. “No.” I had no words to waste on her and turned to leave. But Chloe suddenly reached out and grabbed my arm. “Stella, where are you rushing off? You haven’t touched your soy milk. It’s a gesture from my heart.” “Let go!” Without a second thought, I jerked my arm free. Suddenly, Leo’s face flushed, and he started struggling to breathe. “Mommy, I…can’t breathe…” “Leo, what’s wrong?” Chloe’s scream was perfectly timed. It drew Julian’s attention instantly. He rushed downstairs without hesitation. “What happened?” Chloe spun around, tears already streaming down her face. With a practiced thud, she dropped to her knees before me. “Stella, I know you don’t like me, but how could you hurt a child?” “Whatever you feel toward me, take it out on me. Leo is just a boy. He doesn’t understand any of this.” Julian’s face instantly changed. He quickly, tenderly, helped Chloe up. “Chloe, what are you doing? Don’t worry, with me here, no one will dare to bully you.” Then, he erupted in anger, pointing his finger at me. “Stella, what did you do?” “Why would you hurt a child?!” I scoffed. Looking at the man who once swore I was his entire world, I almost laughed out loud. “Julian, are you blind, or just willfully ignorant? Which part of you saw me lay a finger on anyone?” “No, no, Julian, Stella didn’t do anything, it’s not her fault.” Chloe cut in perfectly, tears already tracing down her cheeks, her expression a masterpiece of wounded sorrow. “I shouldn’t have moved in. I shouldn’t have disturbed Stella’s life.” “And I definitely shouldn’t have mentioned carelessly that Leo is allergic to soy milk, only to still offer it to him… just to try and please her.” “Still, regardless of fault-Julian, please, just take Leo to the hospital first.” “Tsk, what a well-rehearsed script.” “Ms. Hayes, your performance is wasted here. It’s a shame you never pursued acting.” I applauded softly, a smile on my lips. “Stella, that’s enough!” Julian was livid, his hand rising as if to strike me. I scoffed and leaned in closer. “What’s wrong, famous author? Can’t bring yourself to do it?” “Or are you worried your wife might say something…untimely at your book launch in two days?” “You!” Seeing his face freeze, I knew he was afraid. Because I understood better than anyone how desperately Julian craved success. I had watched him claw his way up from obscurity, from a writer no one knew into the “genius” everyone praised. His expression shifted. He released me angrily. “Stella, you’ve disappointed me.” He scooped up Leo, shoved past me roughly, and rushed out. Caught off guard, I crashed into the sharp corner of the table, the impact jolting through my abdomen. Disappointed? I laughed, and the tears came instantly. I had once been pregnant, too. Seven years ago, during Julian’s most hectic book launch, I had lost the child in an accident. Back then, he had held my hand, his eyes filled with a sorrow that felt genuine. “It’s okay, we’re still young.” “There will be other chances.” I still remembered the grief in his eyes. After that, he never mentioned trying for a child again.. But now, I recalled everything I had uncovered last night. My miscarriage. Chloe’s pregnancy. The timing aligned with a precision so chilling it froze the blood in my veins.

“Stella, you have the nerve to be sleeping here!” Julian stormed in. He grabbed my hair, roughly dragging me downstairs. A searing pain instantly shot through my scalp. My vision went black. “Julian, are you insane?!” “Insane? Well, you drove me to it, Stella! Do you know, if we had been ten minutes later, Leo might have died!” “Anaphylactic shock can kill someone! How could you be so vicious?!” He violently flung me to the floor. I sneered, lifting my head to glare at him. “What, Mr. Famous Author, so worried about a child who’s an outsider? Could it be that he’s related to you?” “Stella, what are you talking about?!” Julian immediately roared, his face flushed with shame and anger. “I’m talking nonsense?” I scoffed. “To think you’d strike and scream at your own wife over another woman’s child. Anyone who saw it would think he was your secret son.” Sure enough, his face paled. I knew him too well. Julian valued his reputation above all else. Countless envious eyes were watching him, waiting for him to slip. If a scandal broke now, especially at a critical moment like his new book presale launch, his meticulously built image would be completely shattered. “Stella, how many times do I have to tell you? They are inspiration partners for my work. I brought them home for my writing. What is wrong with that?” “It’s you who’s petty and narrow-minded, constantly bullying her and her child.” “Now the new book’s presales have broken industry records on the very first day. They helped achieve that. How dare you, with such a malicious heart, slander our benefactors?” Benefactors? More like a conquest in the bedroom, wouldn’t you say? But when I turned and saw what Chloe was holding, my blood turned to ice. A scream lodged itself in my throat. “Julian, what have you done?!” It was unmistakably my mother’s urn. Why was it in her hands? Without Julian’s silent permission, how could she ever have reached it? Julian’s expression faltered, a flicker of guilt in his eyes. “Stella, let me explain.” Chloe suddenly stepped forward, a mask of panic on her face. “Oh? Was this so important, Stella? Here, I’ll give it back right now!” Before I could even move, her eyes darted sideways, a vicious smile touching her lips. In one swift motion, the urn dropped from her hands. It shattered against the floor with a sickening crack. “Chloe!” Rage surged through me, hot and blinding. My vision flushed crimson. I lunged for her, past all reason. But Julian’s arm shot out, blocking my way. Chloe immediately cowered behind Julian. “Stella, I’m sorry, I’m so sorry, it was an accident! I didn’t know it meant so much to you. It’s all my fault. My hand just slipped. Please, please forgive me.” “Chloe didn’t mean it.” Julian watched me crumble, my voice breaking, and frowned with distaste. “Stella, get a hold of yourself. It’s only an urn.” Only an urn? I laughed, a bitter, furious sound. I bit down hard, forcing the words out slowly. “Julian. Tell me. Why did you give her my mother’s ashes?” Julian lowered his gaze. Chloe smugly peered out from behind him. “Stella, it’s my fault, all my fault. There’s an old belief where I come from… if a child in the family falls ill from fright, the ashes of an elder can absorb the bad luck. I was just so worried about Leo’s condition.” “So I begged Julian for help. I’m begging you, please don’t blame Julian, and don’t let this cause any trouble between you two because of me.” She cried and whimpered, making to kowtow again. Julian moved without hesitation, stepping wordlessly in front to shield her. “That’s enough, Stella. What happened to Leo is, in part, tied to you. And your mother is gone. Keeping her ashes is just clinging to the past.” “Just gather them up. We’ll get a new urn.” Ward off evil? If the moment weren’t so grave, I might have laughed until I cried. Julian. You, the celebrated author of our time. You would actually believe such a pathetic excuse. “Fine.” The word tore from my throat, bitter with the taste of blood I kept forcing down. “Perfect.” I dug my nails into my palms, clinging to the pain to stay calm. I’m so sorry, Mom. I let them defile you. Don’t worry. They will pay. Then I took out my phone and texted Julian’s assistant: “Change of venue for the launch. Await my instructions.”

When I first met Julian, he was just an obscure writer, not even worthy of the title author. His writing couldn’t even sell as scrap paper. But even then, I saw his dedication and hard work. For him, I hid all my own brilliance. I retreated behind the scenes, pouring vast resources and connections into his career, handing him opportunities on a silver platter. I never imagined I was feeding an ungrateful ingrate. “Stella, I want to talk…” The next morning, Julian stood outside my door, a look of apology on his face. “I thought about yesterday all night. I was too impulsive, I didn’t think things through.” “Didn’t you want to go to a luxury spa retreat? How about this, I’ll make arrangements today, and take you out to relax, just like when we first got married.” I looked up and saw Chloe standing at the corner, glaring at me with resentment. I raised an eyebrow. Pretending? Who couldn’t? I leaned in, feigning deep affection, and whispered in his ear. “Okay, honey. I was out of line too, ignoring how stressed you’ve been lately.” “It has been a while since we went out together. Maybe we could even try for a baby while we’re there.” Sure enough, Chloe went rigid, all color draining from her face. I smirked. Hook, line, and sinker.. At 3 PM, Julian’s message arrived right on time.. “Stella, I’m so sorry. The publisher called an emergency meeting. The spa day will have to wait. I promise I’ll make it up to you next time.” My reply was gracious, sent with a smile. “No worries, your work comes first. Don’t overwork yourself.” I even added a hugging emoji. Then, I opened the GPS tracker on my phone. I texted Julian’s assistant again. “Launch the new book. Immediate release. Alert all major media and news outlets. Be ready.” Next, I scrolled through Chloe’s latest update. A carousel of photos, each more boastful than the last. “They say this is the most expensive hot spring bath in the world!” “With the right person, even the air tastes sweeter.” “Turns out, the one who isn’t loved will always be the third wheel.” Location: The Hot Spring Resort. A cold smile touched my lips. All they knew was that the place was private and expensive. They had no idea I had bought it years ago. Meanwhile, I had already contacted all the major players in the industry and arranged for them to accompany me to the resort. Our cars had barely reached the foot of the mountain when a swarm of cameras and microphones surged toward mine. “Why was the launch date moved up so abruptly? Are there additional plans?” “Is Julian already at the resort? Why was this location chosen for the launch?” “It’s said this is Julian’s long-awaited masterpiece after two years of reflection. Pre-orders have sold out before the official release. Can you share where his inspiration came from?” I smiled. “Thank you all for your attention. There will indeed be a special program today. As for the details…” I paused, letting my smile deepen. “You’ll just have to wait and see.” As I walked, I dialed Julian’s number right in front of the rolling cameras. His voice came through, raspy and uneven between breaths. “Honey, I’m…having hot pot with some colleagues.” “Of course.” I smiled and ended the call. What a “business dinner,” Julian. Or should I say, a couple’s retreat? A sharp-eyed reporter caught the discrepancy. “This doesn’t look much like a restaurant.” The guards at the entrance saw us and their expressions shifted instantly. “Sorry, it’s a private event. We’re not admitting any guests!” I didn’t slow down. “Out of my way.” Then, I kicked the door open. The internet broke.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “321853”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #重生Reborn

My employees dragged my name through the mud online, calling me a cheapskate for only giving out $1,000 gift cards for Christmas. But that $1,000 gift card was their own choice, determined by a vote. What I had originally prepared was a $10,000 Hermès bag for each of them. Now, the entire internet was calling me stingy. I smiled and sent out a company-wide announcement: “Respecting the democratic decision, the Christmas bonus will officially be $1,000 gift cards. The surprise is canceled.” The moment the announcement went out, AstraCorp blew up— Because the Hermès order confirmation was now being frantically shared in every WhatsApp group. A week before Christmas, Monday morning meeting. I stood at the front of the conference room, looking at the room full of employees, and decided to set the stage early. “This Christmas, the company has prepared a special surprise for everyone.” I paused deliberately. “It’s a secret for now, but I promise, this will be the most thoughtful Christmas gift you’ve ever received.” A buzz of curious discussion rose from the audience. Chloe, a new employee, her eyes brightened, but she immediately whispered to Mark next to her: “A surprise? It’s not going to be our own products again, is it? I gave last year’s custom thermal mug to my dad.” Mark, a five-year veteran at AstraCorp, chuckled. “The boss loves this kind of thing. It’d be more practical to just give us cash.” The next day, the buzz in the breakroom shifted. Chloe held up her phone, her voice clear enough for the entire open-plan office to hear: “Look! Our competitor is giving out $2,000 Amazon gift cards this year! The company downstairs is giving out cash directly!” She sighed. “Our company isn’t small either. ‘Surprise, surprise,’ who knows if it’ll actually be surprising?” A few young employees gathered around to look, envy etched on their faces. “If only we could get gift cards, then we could buy whatever we want.” “Exactly, what if I don’t like it?” By the afternoon, Chloe knocked on my office door. Behind her were Mark, and three or four department representatives. “Boss,” Chloe smiled sweetly, “we all discussed it, and we have a small suggestion.” Mark took over, his expression earnest: “Boss, we know you put a lot of thought into it, but everyone’s giving out gift cards this year. Should we perhaps go with the general sentiment?” I scanned each of them. “The surprise I prepared is worth far more than a gift card.” “But boss,” Chloe blinked, “Gift cards are the most practical. Everyone can buy whatever they want for their families. That’s true freedom.” Another employee chimed in, “Yeah, boss, the surprise is your good intention, but what if someone doesn’t like it? It’s better to let everyone choose for themselves.” They all looked at me with expectant eyes. I paused for a few seconds, then nodded. “Alright. Since this is everyone’s wish, then this year we’ll switch to gift cards.” “$1,000 for each person, to be distributed before Christmas.” Cheers erupted, almost shaking the building. Chloe shot Mark a triumphant glance. They had won.

After the announcement about switching to gift cards was sent out, the company was jubilant. The SnapChat group was flooded with “Boss is wise!” and “Thank you, boss!” I instructed my assistant, Sarah, to cancel the Hermès order. The incident happened on Wednesday afternoon. Sarah was rushing through the office, documents in her arms, when a delivery confirmation slip slid out of her folder. She didn’t notice and walked straight into the conference room. The paper fluttered to Chloe’s feet. She bent down to pick it up, intending to return it to Sarah, but her gaze fixated on the paper— Hermès Official Order Confirmation Item: Birkin 25 Leather Handbag x 230 Ordered by: AstraCorp Total Amount: $2,300,000 Notes: Christmas employee gift box, greeting cards to be imprinted with “Thank you for being with us.” Chloe’s hands began to tremble. She mechanically looked up and saw Mark walking over. “What’s wrong, Chloe?” “Mark.” Her voice was trembling. “Look at this.” Mark took the receipt, his eyes instantly wide. He sucked in a sharp breath and read the amount twice more. “Over two hundred Birkins? About ten thousand dollars each?” His voice was barely a whisper. The number exploded like a bomb in both their minds. They had exchanged a $10,000 bag for a $1,000 gift card. Chloe suddenly snatched the receipt back and pulled out her phone to take a picture. “What are you doing?” Mark asked urgently. “Posting it in the group!” Chloe’s fingers were shaking. “Let everyone see! We’ve been tricked!” “Wait—” But it was too late. The photo was dropped into the company’s 200-person main SnapChat group. Along with Chloe’s question: 【@Boss What is this? The “surprise” you prepared, was it this?】 The group fell silent for a full minute. Then, it exploded. 【Hermès Birkin???】 【One for each person???】 【So this is what we were originally going to get???】 【I traded a $10,000 bag for $1,000???】 Questions, shock, regret, and anger flooded the screen like a tsunami. Mark’s phone started vibrating wildly as private messages poured in: “Mark! Is this real?” “Why didn’t you say the surprise was this?!” “Can we still switch back now?” Mark watched the chaos in the group, and a thought suddenly sparked in his mind. He private messaged Chloe: 【We can’t just let this slide.】 【We need to get the bags back.】 Chloe replied instantly: 【How? We’re the ones who asked for the switch.】 Mark typed quickly: 【We’ll say the boss deliberately misled us! If he’d been clear it was Hermès, who would’ve chosen $1,000?】 【This is fraud!】

That night, small discussions began to appear in industry forums. An anonymous account posted: “Gossip time: a tech company boss played mind games, giving employees a choice between two Christmas benefits. He deliberately didn’t mention option A was Hermès, misleading employees into choosing option B, a $1,000 gift card. Now the employees are furious.” Someone in the comments asked: “Is this for real? Hermès as an employee benefit?” The original poster replied: “Got the order confirmation as proof, but the boss says since they chose B, they can’t change it. He’s incredibly cheap.” This post was forwarded to a private company SnapChat group. Chloe watched the rising number of likes and said in the group: 【We need to stand united. One person complaining won’t do anything; if we all do it together, the boss has to give us an explanation.】 Mark immediately agreed: 【Exactly! This is the boss’s trick! He deliberately wasn’t clear because he didn’t want to give out the expensive one!】 Someone timidly asked: 【But, we’re the ones who asked for the switch.】 Chloe immediately replied: 【That’s because we didn’t know what the options were! This is fraud through unequal information!】 【If we’d known it was Hermès, who would’ve chosen $1,000? Is that fair?】 Emotions flared. Regret and greed festered, turning into anger. The next morning, a jointly signed petition from over a dozen employees lay on my desk. It demanded a “fair re-selection of benefits” and “compensation for emotional distress caused by lack of transparency.” I looked at the familiar signatures on the petition— The intern whose rent I paid for half a year. The single mother I specially approved to bring her child to work. The technical backbone who always said he’d “work with the boss for a lifetime.” I pushed the petition aside. “Inform everyone: the benefit plan has been democratically decided and will not change.” When the news spread, the company erupted. Chloe directly filed a complaint with the labor union, crying about “corporate fraud against employees.” Mark, meanwhile, started sending private messages to peers, partners, and investors: “The boss might have funding issues, otherwise why would he go back on his word?” “I heard they’ve been delaying payments to suppliers for a while.” “They can’t even afford Christmas benefits, is the company going under?” Rumors spread like a virus. In the afternoon, three partners called to inquire about the situation. That evening, a screenshot of a chat log circulated within the industry— “AstraCorp’s capital chain is broken, Christmas benefits shrink to $1,000, employees protest en masse.” The source of the screenshot was shown to be an internal company email.

On the third day of the fallout, I received a call from Michael, Executive Vice President of Okovia Group, our largest client. His voice was as cold as ice: “Alex, I’m hearing some disturbing rumors.” “Our collaboration for the next quarter is based on the premise of your company’s stable operation.” “Now, the industry is buzzing that you have financial issues and widespread employee protests.” I tried to explain: “Michael, this is just a small misunderstanding regarding a benefit plan.” “Misunderstanding?” Michael cut me off. “My inbox received five anonymous tips, all from your employees.” “One of them even included your company’s cash flow analysis for the past three months—internal data, Alex.” My heart sank. Someone had leaked financial data. “I’m giving you 24 hours,” Michael said. “If by this time tomorrow, I don’t see your genuine commitment and a plan to completely resolve this issue—” He paused. “We’ll initiate the process of replacing vendors.” The call ended. I stood by the floor-to-ceiling window, looking at the scattered media vehicles gathering downstairs. Sarah cautiously knocked and entered: “Boss, two more media outlets are requesting interviews. Also, Chloe and Mark are here with over a dozen people, saying they want to see you.” “Let them in.” The door was pushed open, with Chloe leading, Mark following, and a dozen or so flushed employees behind them. Chloe showed me her phone screen— It displayed her live stream data: 120,000 viewers online. “Boss,” her voice was shrill, “the whole internet knows how you ‘defrauded’ your employees now.” “Our demands are simple: either distribute the Hermès bags as originally planned, or compensate the difference—$9,000 per person.” Mark feigned a sympathetic tone: “Boss, everyone isn’t unreasonable. But your actions were indeed not ethical. Now that it’s blown up, it’s not good for the company’s image. Why not compromise?” I looked at them. At those whom I had helped, trusted, and considered my comrades. Their faces were etched with greed. “What if I say no?” I asked calmly. Chloe smiled. She tapped another screen on her phone— It showed fragments of our core product’s design source code, redacted and posted on a tech forum. The poster was anonymous, but the title read: “AstraCorp Core Code Leaked, Company May Face Bankruptcy.” “Then maybe tomorrow, it won’t just be fragments that are leaked,” she said softly. “Boss, what do you think? Are a few dozen bags more expensive, or is the company going bankrupt?” The office fell into a deathly silence. I slowly stood up and walked to the window. Then I turned around, looking at each of them: “Inform everyone: tomorrow morning at nine, in the main conference room.” “I will provide the final solution.” Chloe’s face flashed with a victorious smile. They thought I had caved. After the crowd dispersed, I called in the legal and IT department heads. “I want to see a complete chain of evidence before tomorrow’s meeting.” My voice was devoid of warmth. “You know what to do.” I gave them diamonds, but they threw them away like worthless trinkets. And after throwing them away, now they want to snatch the diamonds back. Fine. Then I’ll show you. You don’t even deserve the glass beads.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “321852”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #重生Reborn

Three days after getting terminated, I still walked into the company’s conference room. My ex‑girlfriend, Skyler, looked me over with open contempt. “Carter, given your current situation, you don’t even belong in this room.” She paused, her tone turning patronizing, almost generous. “Hand over your client portfolio and transition everything properly for Dax.” “Maybe then I’ll let you stay—scrubbing toilets.” After ten years by her side, this was how it ended. Mopping floors in the company I helped build. I didn’t move. The door opened, and her assistant stepped inside, stopping beside me. “Let me introduce everyone,” “This is our new CEO.” When Skyler, my ex‑girlfriend and former CEO, gleefully told me that her earlier attempt to win me back was just a joke, I didn’t get angry. I just pulled out my phone to call a cab home. The colleagues around us stared with mocking eyes, sneering: “Carter, the CEO said she doesn’t want you around. Why are you still here? Go on, book another flight!” “Didn’t you say you got an offer overseas? What happened—they changed their mind about you?” Skyler watched them cold‑shoulder me with indulgence, making no move to stop them. This kind of suffocating, humiliating workplace bullying had surrounded me for years. In the past, I would’ve fought back, hurt that my CEO girlfriend wouldn’t speak up for me. Now, I felt nothing—like watching clowns perform. “My business isn’t your concern, is it?” I said calmly. Skyler snorted, her eyes sweeping over me with disgust: “Still acting tough at a time like this?” “With your limited skills, if I hadn’t carried you all these years, you might not even have food on the table!” “Going abroad? What a joke.” Yes, I was a top‑tier graduate who’d turned down a dream offer to help her build a company from scratch. But in Skyler’s eyes, I was worthless—someone who’d only survived because of her. It almost made me laugh. I’d loved Skyler completely. Even staying in a mid‑level role forever wouldn’t have bothered me. But then she started reassigning my projects to her new assistant, Dax, without consulting me. She even pinned Dax’s mistakes on me, forcing me to take the fall. Then she used that as an excuse to cut my pay and suspend me, while promoting Dax and giving him a raise. That’s when I finally woke up. This one‑sided relationship had to end. So I quit on the spot, broke up with her, and decided to pursue my career abroad. I never expected her to show up just before my flight to play this “joke” on me. For a moment, I didn’t feel sadness—just bewilderment. How blind had I been, falling for someone like her? I shook my head, not bothering to argue: “You’re right about everything. Can I go now?” I stepped around Skyler, ready to leave. But she grabbed my arm, staring me down with disdain: “You’re really committed to the act, aren’t you? Your ‘overseas offer’ is exposed, and you’re still pretending?” “For old times’ sake, I’ll give you an out.” “Come back with me, and I’ll make you Dax’s assistant.” Seeing her condescending act, I finally understood the real point of her joke. On the surface, it was a bet with Dax to see if I’d take the bait. Really, she just wanted to keep me at the company as a workhorse for her and Dax. I had to admit, Skyler had planned Dax’s career carefully—promotion, raise, even an assistant. As for me, I’d helped her achieve her dream of running a company, and she’d taken everything from me to pave Dax’s way. I laughed coldly. “Dax isn’t skilled enough to deserve my help.” Skyler’s face darkened. “Carter, it seems I’ve been too soft on you all these years. That’s why you’re so full of yourself—” Before she could finish, a figure approached from across the terminal. “Skyler!” Her expression instantly softened. “Dax!” Dax was the only one in the whole company who didn’t call her “CEO”—he used her first name. Even I, her actual boyfriend, never had that privilege. Dax glanced at me and smiled at Skyler. “See? I knew Carter’s ‘overseas move’ was just an excuse. He never actually left.” Skyler shot me a sidelong glare, her eyes full of contempt. “Some people overestimate their importance—think the company can’t run without them!” “Not like you, Dax. You’re capable and humble. Since he won’t take the offer, let’s drop it.” “Let’s go.” But Dax held Skyler’s hand, putting on a pitiful look. “Skyler, wait. Ever since Carter quit, I haven’t been able to find my watch.” “It was my grandmother’s heirloom.” Then he turned to me, pleading: “Carter, please give it back to me.” Before I could process what was happening, Skyler glared at me furiously. “Carter, you stole something?” I started to deny it, but she cut me off coldly. “Don’t even try. Why would Dax make this up?” “You’re jobless now—who knows what you’re capable of?” Then she ordered the others: “Open his suitcase and check!” I stared at Skyler in disbelief. After ten years together, she knew my character better than anyone. But on Dax’s word alone, she would publicly rummage through my luggage? Earlier, with her cruel joke, I hadn’t wanted to engage. But now, this bullying crossed a line. Not disappointment. Not heartache. Just anger and disgust. “Stop!” I shouted, but Dax pretended to be sincere. “Carter, why so defensive? You didn’t actually take it, did you?” That made Skyler look at me with even more disgust. She signaled two people to block me as she said coldly: “Ignore him. Keep searching.” Watching my suitcase being dumped, my clothes and belongings scattered on the floor, my anger peaked. I yelled for airport security. Only then did they sheepishly back off. “It’s not here,” Dax said, sounding disappointed. “Forget it. Let’s not make things harder for Carter. He’s having a tough enough time.” But Skyler shot me a fierce look. “I think someone already sold it.” Then she said gently to Dax: “It’s fine. I’ll buy you a new one.” As she left, she threw me a cold glance. “Carter, when you’re living on the streets, don’t come begging to me.” With that, she left with the group, Dax shooting me a挑衅 look over his shoulder. I said nothing, just laughed coldly inside. They didn’t know yet—the company’s projects had imploded. It was about to go bankrupt and be acquired. And I’d turned down the overseas trip because the new parent company had appointed me as the incoming CEO.

My new company was headquartered overseas—a well‑known enterprise. Back at graduation, I’d received an offer from them thanks to my record. But Skyler talked me into staying to build a startup with her, so I’d turned it down. After the breakup, they’d reached out immediately, inviting me to join. But just before boarding, I got a call: their domestic subsidiary was acquiring local firms to consolidate resources, including Skyler’s company. They wanted me to be the new CEO. After dropping my luggage at home, I set a meeting with Mr. Quinn, the domestic liaison. I arrived early at the restaurant to wait. But unexpectedly, I saw Skyler and Dax there, laughing over lunch. When they noticed me, Skyler froze for a second. She walked over with an irritated look. “Carter, are you stalking me now?” “Weren’t you all tough earlier? Having regrets already?” Before I could speak, Dax smiled and said: “Skyler, there were a lot of people at the airport. Carter was just saving face.” “Tell you what—if Carter apologizes sincerely, I’m sure Skyler would still give you a chance.” “Right, Skyler?” Skyler looked at me with disapproval, pretending reluctance. “Since Dax is sticking up for you, fine. Finish this bottle of wine, and I’ll let you be an assistant.” She pointed to a full wine bottle on the table. I laughed inwardly. Skyler knew perfectly well I had stomach issues and couldn’t drink. She was just making me beg. But she’d miscalculated. “You’re overthinking it. I’m waiting for someone.” “Waiting for someone? Hah, you’re really committed to the act.” Skyler sneered. “I’ve known you for years. I know your little games.” “You just think being Dax’s assistant is beneath you, don’t you?” “But these days, what’s pride worth?” Just then, Mr. Quinn, the person I was meeting, walked over. He offered his hand. “Sorry to keep you waiting, Mr. Evans.” I ignored Skyler and shook his hand with a smile. “Mr. Quinn, let’s talk inside. There’s a bit of noise out here.” “Of course.” Skyler stared in disbelief. As I turned to enter the private room with Mr. Quinn, I heard Dax say loudly: “Looks like Carter scheduled a meeting with a headhunter. Still job‑hunting, huh?” The next moment, Skyler stepped in front of me. She smirked. “Carter, you’ve really grown a spine, huh? You’d rather scrape for jobs than ask me for help?” “But let me remind you—given your track record, I’ve already talked to every firm in town. No one will hire you.” “Starting to regret it now?” She looked at me with a half‑smile, waiting for me to fold. But she was wrong. Skyler’s influence wasn’t enough to threaten me. And because of my departure, she’d let Dax take over all major projects, pushing the company to the brink of collapse. She had no idea. I said calmly: “Skyler, confidence is good. I hope you keep that attitude when your company goes bankrupt and gets acquired.” “You—!” Skyler was about to snap, but instead she turned to Mr. Quinn. She shoved a business card into his hand. Arrogantly, she said: “Skyler Vance, CEO of McAsh Group. Carter is a former employee of mine—fired for misconduct.” “I’d advise your firm to be careful.” With that, she glanced at me, linked arms with Dax, and strode off. Mr. Quinn frowned at the card, then looked at me. “This…” “Just clowns. Let’s talk inside.” I smiled slightly. Mr. Quinn tossed the card into a trash can. Inside, we discussed acquiring Skyler’s company. We’d capitalize on McAsh Group’s project failures and buy it at a low price. Mr. Quinn handed me the current staff list, asking me to help optimize it. I knew everyone’s capabilities and conduct intimately, and promised a plan soon. After the meeting, I headed home. But as soon as I stepped inside, I saw Skyler on my couch. Crossing her legs, she glared coldly. I frowned. “What are you doing here?”

I glanced at the door. Then I remembered I hadn’t deleted her fingerprint after the breakup. Skyler didn’t answer, just said coldly: “Who told you my company was going bankrupt?” I was changing my shoes and ignored her. Skyler’s face darkened further. “You got your wish. The company collapsed.” I raised an eyebrow, surprised Mr. Quinn had moved so fast. Mentioned at noon, done by afternoon. Skyler went on: “Carter, I don’t know how you got that tip‑off.” “But don’t celebrate too soon.” “The firm acquiring us is a major player. They’ll handle the project issues.” “I’ll still be in management.” I made myself tea, unsurprised. Of course I knew. My optimization list wasn’t final yet, so existing staff were temporarily retained. “And?” I asked flatly. Skyler stared intently. “Hand over your client portfolio to Dax, and I’ll arrange a manager role for you in the new company.” “You know with the parent company’s backing, McAsh will be stronger than ever.” “A manager title is a generous offer.” I almost laughed. She said it so righteously, as if granting me a favor. But I knew the truth: after the acquisition, Mr. Quinn had circulated the development plan I’d drafted. One key point: roles would be based on merit under my leadership. Skyler just wanted to use my contacts to boost Dax into a VP role. Her love for Dax ran deep. Too bad she’d backed the wrong horse. “Skyler, you’re naive.” My words darkened her face. She stood and stepped toward me. Her gaze was piercing. “Carter, I know you’re jealous of Dax.” “You’re upset I changed, that I treat him so well.” “But get this—our statuses are different now. I’m the boss. The capitalist.” “And you? You work for me. A boyfriend like you hasn’t been on my level for a long time.” “But Dax… he brings me freshness. The joy of being a woman. You can’t compare.” Skyler looked at me deeply, her voice oddly soft. “I’ll give you one night to decide.” With that, she turned and left. I shook my head, annoyed. I deleted her fingerprint immediately, then opened my laptop and sent the layoff list for the next day. The following morning, I started at the company officially. As I entered, colleagues were buzzing about the acquisition. Skyler was painting a rosy picture as usual. Saying she’d remain in management, and if everyone worked hard, things would stay the same. Until someone noticed me. Her eyes lit up. She walked over, sounding like she’d expected me. “Changed your mind? Ready to hand over the client list to Dax?”

I laughed and shook my head. Skyler’s face fell. Before she could speak, Dax smiled and said: “Carter, why the act?” “If you weren’t handing over the contacts, why come?” “Don’t tell me you’re here to work.” The other colleagues chuckled. I raised an eyebrow. “Actually, I am here to work.” That drew louder laughs, fingers pointing. “Work? He’s probably job‑hunting, thinks he can sneak in after the acquisition!” “Dream on.” “Carter, what about that overseas offer? Applying here now? Hilarious!” I was about to reply when Skyler cut in, her expression dark. “Carter, when will you drop the act!” “I told you—give Dax the contacts, and I was giving you a chance. Still being stubborn?” “Didn’t you hear me yesterday? Do you really want to stay unemployed?” I shook my head, almost pitying her. “Skyler, you’re the one about to be unemployed. You should plan ahead.” Skyler looked at me and burst into mocking laughter. “Listen to him! Has he lost it? Telling me to plan ahead?” “What, I’m the former CEO. You think you can fire me?” “Carter, I bet that with me here, you won’t even get a janitor role—” Just then, two people entered through the main doors. It was the team Mr. Quinn from headquarters had sent to help me restructure. Skyler recognized them. Her expression shifted, and she forced a smile as she approached. “Mr. Higgins, you’re here. Has the new CEO arrived? I should greet him.” Mr. Higgins glanced at her, said nothing, walked straight to me, and gave a respectful nod. Then he announced to everyone: “This is our new CEO, Mr. Evans!” For a moment, Skyler’s smile froze. She asked, strained: “Mr. Higgins, you’re joking, right?” “This… Carter is a washed‑up nobody. How could he—” Suddenly, Mr. Higgins pulled out the layoff list I’d drafted the day before and thrust it toward her. Pointing at her and Dax, he said coldly: “You’re both terminated. Pack your things and leave. Now.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “321851”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #重生Reborn

I was his lawful wife, yet every dollar I spent had to be approved by his secretary first. Living expenses required authorization. Purchases had to be registered. When my father was rushed into the ICU, I wasn’t even allowed to sign for his surgery. The night he rented out the entire Disneyland to set off fireworks for another woman, I stood in a hospital corridor, calling him again and again. The moment I sold my wedding ring and decided to file for divorce— he was the first time he refused to let me go. After losing control while drunk, I slept with the boy next door. He’s an extremely responsible person, so he proposed to me after sobering up. It wasn’t until later that I found out his most beloved woman had left the country that night. So I hid my deep feelings and became his obedient and virtuous wife in name only in this wealthy family. On countless quiet nights, we were incredibly in sync, yet kept our distance. My friends all said I would never be able to leave him, and I thought so too. Until one day, when I discovered his second phone. While he was in the shower, a girl sent a selfie of herself. “Mr. Sterling, thank you for the birthday gift.” She was a very young girl with delicate features. But she was wearing expensive clothes that didn’t match her age, so she looked a bit uncomfortable. I stared at it for a long time, until my eyes stung. I had always known there was someone in Alexander’s life, but I never imagined it would be a girl like this. Beyond my heartache, I was also surprised by my husband’s preferences. I thought to myself, I’m sorry for discovering Alexander’s secret. A moment later, Alexander came out with steam rising from his body. “How long are you going to look at that?” He snatched the phone from my hand, glanced at me, and started getting dressed. There wasn’t a hint of embarrassment on his face at being caught by his wife. I knew his confidence came from his control over the family finances. Because I was the one being kept at home, even though I used to be a well-known pianist in the country before we married. I didn’t confront him about the photo. I couldn’t even if I wanted to. Seeing he was about to go out, I quickly spoke up. “Alexander, I have something I want to talk to you about.” He fastened his belt leisurely and looked at me. “I have five minutes. The driver is waiting downstairs.” I guessed where he was going and my eyes darkened. “Alexander, I want to go out and work.” Alexander turned to look at me, staring for a while. Then he took out a checkbook from his pocket, wrote down a number, tore it out and handed it to me. “Isn’t it nice being a full-time housewife at home? Work isn’t suitable for you.” He was about to leave after saying that. I chased after him, taking a very humble stance. “I’m not afraid of hard work. I want to go out and work. I can play the piano.” The man had no patience to listen further. In his mind, I was like a delicate vine. Used to being taken care of, completely unsuited for working outside, and unable to endure hardship. Alexander looked at his watch. Time was up. He left this home without any reluctance. I couldn’t stop him, only managing to urgently ask as he gripped the doorknob. “My dad’s birthday is on Saturday. Do you have time?” Alexander paused. “We’ll see.” The door closed softly. A moment later, the sound of a car starting came from downstairs, gradually fading into the distance. A few minutes later, the housekeeper came upstairs. “Sir is going to H City for a few days. He said it’s for something important.” “Also, a batch of Sir’s clothes just arrived for washing. Madam, should we send them to the cleaners or would you like to hand wash and iron them yourself?” They knew my relationship with Alexander was strained. In this house, they were the messengers between Alexander and me. I knelt on the sofa, taking a while to come back to my senses before softly saying, “I’ll wash them by hand.” Because Alexander didn’t like the smell of dry cleaning solvents. So almost all of Alexander’s clothes, including suits and coats, were hand washed and ironed by me. Besides this, Alexander had high standards in other areas too. He didn’t like eating out, and he didn’t like any mess in the bedroom, so I learned cooking and flower arranging. He never took this wife to heart, only marrying me because of an accident. I gradually became the perfect housewife, and my life revolved almost entirely around Alexander. But Alexander still didn’t love me. I lowered my head and stared at the check. Last year my family business failed. My father suddenly fell ill from the shock, costing over six figures every month. Every time I went home, my stepmother complained that I took too little from Alexander. “He’s the CEO of Sterling Pharmaceutical Group, worth billions.” “Elena, isn’t he your husband? Doesn’t that mean everything he has is yours too?” I smiled bitterly. How could anything of Alexander’s be mine? Alexander didn’t love me and was very cold to me usually. Our marriage only had sex, no love. He wouldn’t even let me have his child. Every time we slept together, he would remind me to take birth control. Yes, I had to take the pills. I felt for the pill bottle, took one out, and swallowed it numbly. After taking the pill, I gently pulled open a small drawer. Inside was a thick diary, filled with 18-year-old me’s deep love for Alexander. Ten years. I had loved him for a full ten years. I quietly closed my eyes. This one-sided play seemed like I could no longer keep acting it out.

I didn’t wait for Alexander to come back. My dad had another acute attack and entered the ICU. The situation was very critical and he needed immediate surgery. I stood in the hospital hallway calling Alexander over and over, but no one answered after several tries. Just as I was about to give up, Alexander answered. Afraid he would lose patience and hang up the next second, I spoke rapidly: “Alexander, my dad—” But my words were still cut off by Alexander. His tone carried a hint of impatience: “Do you need money?” “I’ve said many times, if you urgently need money just ask Secretary Mason. Elena, are you listening?” I looked up at the electronic screen, my expression dazed. It was playing today’s news. The CEO of Sterling Pharmaceutical Group had rented out the entire Disneyland for a night of fireworks to please a beauty. Under the dazzling fireworks, a young girl sat in a wheelchair, smiling sweetly and innocently. And my husband Alexander stood behind the wheelchair. He was holding his phone, talking to me. I blinked slowly. After a long while, my voice carried a hint of brokenness: “Alexander, where are you?” There was a pause on the other end. He seemed very unhappy with my questioning, but still perfunctorily said: “Still busy. If there’s nothing else, I’m hanging up. Contact Secretary Mason.” He didn’t notice my near-tears tone, but his gaze looking down at the person beside him was very gentle, so very gentle. My vision blurred. So Alexander could be this gentle after all. My stepmother’s voice came from behind: “Did you get in touch with Alexander? If Alexander doesn’t help, there’s no way we can handle this.” But her words stopped abruptly, because she also saw the scene on the electronic screen. After a while, my stepmother finally found her voice again. “Elena, I just don’t believe that when Alexander was in a coma, this Sophia girl playing the piano could wake him up.” “Even if that’s true, is this how you repay someone? He can’t even remember your birthday.” My stepmother got more and more angry as she spoke. Thinking of the Miller family’s situation, she couldn’t help but shed tears. “But Elena, you have to be clear-headed. Don’t cause trouble with Alexander at a time like this.” I clenched my fists, my nails digging into my palms, but I couldn’t feel any pain. Cause trouble with Alexander? I wouldn’t. Not because I’m a sensible Mrs. Sterling who knows better. But because I have no right as the unloved wife. The title is just an empty shell. I stared at the sky full of fireworks and said very softly: “All those fireworks must cost a lot of money, right?” My stepmother didn’t understand what I meant. I lowered my eyes and started dialing Secretary Mason’s number. Disturbing someone’s sleep in the middle of the night is always unpleasant. Secretary Mason had been by Alexander’s side for a long time and held a high position. Moreover, he knew Alexander didn’t care about this wife. So after hearing my request, his tone was cold and aggressive. “Mrs. Sterling, you need to apply first and have Mr. Sterling sign off before you can get a check.” “Just like the jewelry you wear, it needs to be registered before use.” “Madam, do you understand what I mean?” I hung up the phone. I lowered my head, very quiet. After a while, I looked up at myself in the glass, gently raised my hand. On my slender ring finger was my wedding diamond ring. This was the only thing on me that didn’t need to be requested from Alexander, didn’t need to be registered and reported to his secretary. How pathetic I was as Mrs. Sterling. I blinked dazedly and suddenly said: “Help me find someone to sell the wedding ring.” My stepmother was stunned: “Elena, have you gone crazy?” I slowly turned around. In the desolate lobby late at night, even my footsteps sounded lonely. After walking a few steps, I paused, then said firmly: “Aunt Clara, I’m very clear-headed. I’ve never been this clear-headed before. I want to divorce Alexander.”

Three days later, Alexander returned home. Alexander pushed open the bedroom door to see me sitting at the dressing table organizing items. He put down his luggage, loosened his tie, and sat on the bed examining me. After marriage, I always enjoyed doing housework, organizing things, making snacks. If I didn’t still hold the title of Mrs. Sterling Group, in Alexander’s heart I was really no different from a housekeeper. For a long time I didn’t speak. Alexander was also tired from his business trip. Seeing I didn’t speak, he was too lazy to say anything. He went straight to the closet, took a bathrobe and went to the shower. While showering, he probably thought that with my weak personality, by the time he finished I would have calmed down. Then I would continue to be a gentle wife. He was so certain I would always love him like this. So when he walked out of the bathroom and found his suitcase still in its original place, he felt it necessary to talk to me. Alexander sat down on the sofa, casually picked up a magazine to read. After a while, he looked up at me and said: “How is your father’s condition?” “I’ve already reprimanded Secretary Mason about that night.” He spoke lightly, without much sincerity. I put down what I was holding and looked up to meet his gaze in the mirror. In the mirror, Alexander’s features were deep-set and his aura was noble. Even a bathrobe looked better on him than others. I looked for a long time, until my eyes were sore, before saying very calmly: “Alexander, let’s get divorced.” Alexander was clearly stunned. He knew I must be unhappy about that night. Alexander turned and took a cigarette box from the coffee table, shook out a cigarette, put it between his lips, and lit it. A moment later, he slowly exhaled a thin wisp of smoke. “A few days ago you said you wanted to go out and work. How come after just a few days you’re now making a fuss about divorce?” “Tired of being Mrs. Sterling for so long, want to go out and experience life?” “Go out and see how many people are working overtime for just a few thousand salary, having to watch others’ facial expressions.” “Elena, you live in a 5000 square foot villa, being Mrs. Sterling. What more are you unsatisfied with?” His tone was heartless and cold. I finally couldn’t hold back anymore and smiled bitterly. “Mrs. Sterling? Is there a Mrs. Sterling like me?” I suddenly stood up and pulled Alexander to the closet, yanking open the doors with a whoosh. Inside was a whole row of jewelry cabinets, but they all had password locks. I didn’t know the passwords. These were all managed by his secretary. I pointed at those things, mocking myself sarcastically. “Is there any wife who needs to report and register with her husband’s secretary just to use a piece of jewelry?” “Is there any wife who needs to write an application to her husband’s secretary to use any money?” “Is there any wife who doesn’t even have cab fare when going out?” “Alexander, you tell me, is this how one is supposed to be Mrs. Sterling?” “Yes, you give me 1 million every month.” “But every time I receive the check, I feel like it’s just a favor after you use me for release.” Alexander coldly interrupted me: “Is that how you think?” He gently pinched my chin: “You want a divorce? You think you can live what kind of life without me?” I was in pain from his pinch and raised my hand to push him away. The next second, Alexander caught my hand, his cold gaze fixed on my empty ring finger: “Where’s your wedding ring?” “I sold it.” My tone was bleak: “So Alexander, let’s get divorced.” Those words almost exhausted all my strength. Alexander was the man I had loved for six years. If it wasn’t for that night, if I hadn’t seen those fireworks in the sky, Perhaps I would have stayed in this loveless marriage for many more years. But I saw it. I don’t want to be with him anymore. Maybe life after divorce will be harder than now, like Alexander said. But I don’t regret it. After I finished speaking, I gently pulled my hand away. I pulled out a suitcase and started packing my things. I knew in his heart he probably never imagined I would have such a rebellious day. Actually saying I want to divorce him so resolutely. But I couldn’t care about anything anymore. Just as I finished packing and was about to leave with my suitcase, The next second, I was picked up by him, carried a few quick steps, and thrown onto the bed. Alexander’s tall body pressed down on me. His face was tightly against mine, eye to eye, nose to nose. Hot, intense breath swirled between us. After a while, his thin lips moved to behind my ear, his tone frivolous: “You’re making a fuss with me just because of Sophia? Elena, why can’t you be more honest?” “Isn’t this Mrs. Sterling title what you schemed for?” “Why don’t you want it now?” I trembled at his words. Even now, he still thought I had orchestrated that night’s events. The phone rang. Alexander ignored it, lowering his body to kiss me. I refused, shaking my head trying to break free. The phone kept ringing persistently. Finally Alexander answered irritably. It was his savior, Sophia, on the other end. “Alexander, my leg hurts so much. Can you come keep me company?” The coquettish voice came through the phone. Alexander didn’t answer immediately. He seemed to consider for a moment before saying to the phone: “I’ll be over in a bit.” After hanging up, he got up and changed clothes. “I have to go out for a while. We’ll talk about the divorce when I get back.” With that, all he left me was the dull sound of the door slamming. I lay limp on the bed, powerless. After a while, I finally got up, silently changed my clothes. I took the luggage I had packed earlier and left this place.

I returned to my father’s home. Every day I was busy with my stepmother taking care of my dad in the hospital, running around non-stop. One day, my stepmother had just finished cooking and was preparing to take it to the hospital. Seeing me still at my parents’ home for several days in a row, my stepmother couldn’t stay calm anymore. She pointed at the suitcase that had been placed in the room and spoke in an unpleasant tone. “What couple doesn’t fight? It’s normal for men to occasionally cheat.” “That Sophia girl comes from a poor family and is blind. I’ve asked around, she’s even divorced before.” “Someone like that won’t affect your position at all.” What position did I have with Alexander? I smiled self-mockingly, took the food from my stepmother’s hands, packed it in a thermos, and said to myself: “Aunt Clara, you rest today. I’ll go take care of Dad.” My stepmother glared at me. After a while, seeing I wouldn’t budge, she angrily said: “Your dad will probably be furious to death if he finds out you want a divorce.” “Elena, let’s take a step back. Even if you really can’t go on with him, can you survive after divorce?” “With the Miller family in this state now, what do you have to support yourself?” I slowly screwed on the thermos lid. After tightening it, I lowered my head and said softly: “We’ll find a way. The money from selling the wedding ring is enough to cover Dad’s medical expenses for a year.” “I plan to sell this house, and I’ll also go out to work to support the family.” As I finished speaking, my eyes grew moist. This house was left to me by my mother. Even in the hardest times before, we never touched it. My stepmother was dumbfounded. She didn’t try to persuade me anymore, but clearly still didn’t approve in her heart. I cleaned up the kitchen, then went to the hospital with my stepmother. After treatment, my dad’s condition had largely stabilized. I also hadn’t mentioned the divorce to my dad. In the afternoon, the attending physician Dr. Bennett came to do rounds. After the examination, he glanced at me: “Let’s talk outside.” I was startled. Then I put down what I was holding and said gently: “Dad, I’ll step out for a bit.” A moment later, we walked to a quiet hallway. Dr. Bennett saw my nervousness and gave me a reassuring smile, then lowered his head to look at the medical records. “Last night, I discussed with several chief physicians from the surgery department and we unanimously recommend:” “Mr. Miller needs to receive customized rehabilitation therapy going forward, otherwise it will be very difficult to recover to his previous state.” “It’s just that the cost is a bit high, about 150,000 per month.” 150,000 was an astronomical figure for me now, but I didn’t hesitate to open my mouth: “We accept the treatment.” Dr. Bennett closed the medical records and was about to speak when a cold voice sounded from across: “Elena.” It was Alexander. Alexander was dressed in business attire, looking like he had come from the company. He walked towards us, his calfskin shoes making crisp sounds on the hallway floor. Shortly after, Alexander came up to them and extended his hand, his voice lazy with a hint of contempt. “Why aren’t you staying properly at home? What are you doing here?” Guessing he probably hadn’t had time to go home for several days in a row, having been by someone else’s side, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of weariness. Not wanting to show a black face in front of others, I could only turn to leave. Alexander saw me leave and followed. We walked towards the ward together, neither of us speaking. Ever since I wanted a divorce, I no longer carefully tried to please him and make him happy like before. Near the ward door, Alexander suddenly grabbed my hand, trapping me between himself and the wall. His gaze was complex, his voice hoarse: “What did you talk about with him?” I wanted to break free, but Alexander used a bit more force and I was pressed back again. “Alexander, this is a hospital.” “I know, of course.” Alexander didn’t budge. He pressed his body tightly against mine. His face was also pressed close to my ear, his voice carrying a hint of danger. I guessed his hidden thoughts. As the CEO of Sterling Group, With status and position, he wouldn’t allow his wife to be too close to other men. I smiled bitterly: “Alexander, I don’t have your filthy thoughts. I don’t have that mood either.” “Rest assured, before we divorce, I won’t get involved with anyone else.” After saying that, I pushed him away and turned to enter the ward. Alexander followed, pushing open the door. As soon as he entered, he frowned: “It’s actually not even a private room.” My stepmother brought over a chair, speaking softly: “Sit down quickly. I’ll have Elena cut some fruit for you.” For the sake of my dad’s health, I could only reluctantly serve Alexander. Alexander sat down to chat with my dad. He was usually cold to me, but performed flawlessly in front of my dad. He had been in the business world for years. As long as he wanted to please someone, it was easy for him to make people feel good. My dad had always liked him. But when Alexander suggested changing hospitals, he still refused, smiling at Alexander: “Let’s not move around. It’s fine here. That Dr. Bennett is very responsible.” Alexander grasped the right degree and didn’t insist: “It’s good if Dad is used to it here.” After some small talk, when I handed him the cut apple, he didn’t take it but instead stood up and said to my dad: “Well then, I’ll take Elena home first. Dad, take care of yourself.” My dad nodded. Alexander took me downstairs. The setting sun dyed the luxury car a blazing red, dazzling and noble. I was pushed into the car by Alexander. I wanted to get out, but my wrist was pressed down by him. Alexander’s expression was composed. From outside the car, one absolutely couldn’t tell he was using such force. I couldn’t move at all, showing the clear difference in strength between men and women. When I gave up struggling, Alexander finally let go and quietly started smoking in the car. My breathing was slightly ragged as I looked at his profile. The dim light cast a shadow on his profile. Alexander was born with good looks, and with his status, he could easily make women’s hearts flutter. I vaguely recalled back then, it was just such a face that made me lose my mind. After a while, he put out the cigarette and took out a velvet box from his pocket, opening it to reveal a diamond ring. My throat tightened. This was the wedding ring I had sold that night. Alexander had bought it back. Alexander stared at my face the whole time, not missing any subtle changes in my expression. As if he wanted to see through my skin and flesh. After a long time, he spoke flatly: “Hold out your hand, put on the ring, then come home with me.” “I’ll pretend the previous things never happened. You’re still Mrs. Sterling.” He was rarely so generous and gracious, but I refused. I curled my palm, this direct action expressing my rejection of him. Alexander’s patience was limited: “What do you really want?” I answered in a low voice: “Divorce. I want to divorce you.” As soon as the words fell, silence pervaded the car. For a long time, Alexander fastened his seatbelt and glanced sideways at me. I turned my face away, not giving him a single look. Alexander stared for a while, then lightly stepped on the gas. The car drove smoothly, the lights on both sides slowly receding. He clearly wanted to chat about something, but I didn’t engage at all. About five minutes later, Alexander spoke. “Tomorrow I’ll arrange for your father to be transferred to Sterling Hospital. He’ll have the best team of experts treating him.” “And in the future, just tell me if you need money.” His tone was quite gentle, considered a concession. He didn’t love me, and still cared about how I had schemed him back then. But he didn’t intend to change wives. This would cause trouble for his life and the company’s stock. Thinking of this, I couldn’t help but smile self-mockingly. Alexander looked over puzzled, but didn’t care. He continued while holding the steering wheel: “From now on, Secretary Mason won’t come to the house anymore. You can keep those jewels yourself. I’ll instruct him.” I listened quietly. The air conditioning in the car was very strong. I hugged myself to avoid shivering from the cold. I had been married to Alexander for five years and understood his personality quite well. To be honest, these concessions were considered favors from him. I should have been grateful and moved to tears, But I wasn’t. He said quite a lot and made concessions, but he didn’t mention Sophia at all. Which meant if I accepted his arrangements, Sophia would still appear in our lives in the future, with no changes. I was tired. I didn’t want to be trapped in a marriage I loved anymore. I flatly refused: “No need. My dad’s current doctor is fine.” Alexander heard my meaning. I didn’t accept his goodwill and insisted on divorce. He couldn’t help but get angry too. “Elena, don’t forget, we signed an agreement when we got married. If we divorce, you won’t get a penny.” “I know.” I answered quickly. Alexander’s patience was exhausted. He pulled the car over to the side of the road. One hand on the steering wheel, the other rubbing his brow, his face showing impatience. “How long are you going to make a fuss?” Even now, he only thought I was making a fuss. My heart turned cold as I sat up straight, looking ahead. After a while, I said softly: “Alexander, I’m serious. I don’t want to be with you anymore.” I stared straight into his dark, shining eyes, not giving an inch. He was handsome, with well-defined features. I used to be quite infatuated with this face. But now I felt nothing. Nothing at all. For the first time, I saw an unhappy expression appear on Alexander’s face. Before I could marvel at it, His phone rang. It was Secretary Mason calling. Alexander answered, his tone not very good: “What is it?” On the other end of the phone, Secretary Mason dutifully informed him: “Miss Sophia just fell when getting out of bed. She’s in a very bad mood now.” “Mr. Sterling, do you want to go see her? If you go, she’ll definitely be very happy.” Alexander held the phone without the strength to speak, clearly considering me beside him. His phone volume wasn’t low. I heard it. I just found it funny. Then I opened the car door and got out, leaving without looking back. A gust of cold wind blew over me, chilling me to the bone. I’m glad that when Alexander took out the wedding ring earlier, I didn’t waver. Didn’t have a change of heart, didn’t want to go back to that suffocating married life.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “321850”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #重生Reborn

The day I found out I was pregnant, Julian deliberately drove the car off a cliff. When I opened my eyes again, I was back in my college days. Only then did I understand— from beginning to end, the person in his heart had always been his first love, Serena. I tore the love letter to shreds on the spot and walked away in the opposite direction from him. Eight years later. He booked the most expensive bar in the city, preparing a proposal for the “love of his life.” When he saw me appear, he looked at me with open mockery and said, “I know you can’t let me go, but you didn’t have to chase me all the way here, did you?” But the moment he saw me holding another man’s hand, he completely lost control. “Claire,” he demanded, eyes burning red, “didn’t you promise to love only me for the rest of your life?” I never expected to see Julian again, especially not in a nightclub. Traffic had delayed me, causing me to miss the class reunion dinner. I drove straight to the club where I had a prior engagement. To my surprise, I stumbled upon my old classmates who had moved on to their second venue of the night. They were lost in the rhythm on the dance floor. Julian, with his fair skin and tall stature, stood out in the crowd. He held Serena close, his eyes full of adoration. “Julian is truly a rare genius. At such a young age, he already owns several Formula 1 teams,” someone remarked. “Indeed. Tonight, he rented out this entire club just for Serena.” “This must be the most luxurious venue in the city. The rental fee for one night must be at least a million dollars.” “Well, you can’t put a price on a beautiful woman’s smile.” As the music stopped, Serena stood there, flushed and slightly out of breath. Suddenly, the big screen lit up, playing a montage of Julian and Serena’s romantic moments. The crowd started to cheer as Serena was ushered onto the stage. Julian, holding a bouquet of roses, got down on one knee before her. “Serena, will you marry me?” His voice was as soft as a gentle stream, almost overflowing with emotion. Someone in the crowd asked, “When did Julian break up with Claire?” The question, neither too loud nor too soft, reached everyone’s ears. Hearing my name, Julian’s expression darkened, his smile fading. Serena’s face froze for a moment before she quickly recovered, accepting the flowers from Julian with a polite smile. “Julian has always been popular with women, but who hasn’t made mistakes when they were young? The important thing is that it all worked out in the end.” The crowd laughed, continuing to compliment the couple on how well-matched they were. I stood in the corner, watching their intertwined fingers. Was I the mistake she referred to? But she didn’t know that in my previous life, it was Julian who had pursued me. He had fallen for me at first sight, launching an intense pursuit. Who could resist a handsome, tall, intelligent man who loved you to the point of obsession? So I agreed. On the day we became official, Julian cupped my face, hesitating to kiss me. “Claire, am I dreaming?” he had said. “If I kiss you, will I wake up?” I laughed, brushing his beautiful eyes before standing on tiptoe to kiss him. That night, he promised me, “Claire, I’ll be good to you for the rest of my life.” I believed him. But he lied. I took a deep breath and headed towards the elevator through the dim light. A sharp-eyed former classmate spotted me and exclaimed, “Claire, what are you doing here?” “What happened to you? You look so disheveled.” “Don’t tell me you’re still unemployed. Since Julian is here, why don’t you ask him to help you find a job that pays at least $5000 a month, for old times’ sake?” Their mockery was undisguised. I didn’t care, just smiling politely as I poured myself a glass of ice water. From the moment I entered, Julian’s gaze had been fixed on me, never wavering. Seeing me take a free glass of ice water, he seemed to relax a bit and said casually, “Order whatever you want. I’m covering all the expenses tonight.” I replied, “Thank you, but that won’t be necessary.” My tone was polite but carried an unmistakable distance. Julian’s attempt to approach me halted. Half his face was hidden in the shadows, making his expression unreadable. After a long moment, he let out a bitter laugh. “Claire, after all these years, you’re still so prideful.” Serena’s gaze was filled with wariness. She intertwined her fingers with Julian’s, eyeing me with a look of ownership and contempt. “Claire, I don’t mean to be rude, but as a woman, you should at least make an effort with your appearance when you go out.” “Look at your mismatched clothes and messy hair. How do you expect any man to want to marry you like this?” “I have plenty of clothes at home that I don’t wear anymore. If you don’t mind, you can have them. After all, Julian buys me so many that I can’t even fit them all in two walk-in closets.” The crowd burst into laughter. I turned to look at my reflection in the glass. After two days of non-stop work on set, I was exhausted and hadn’t bothered with my appearance. Standing next to the impeccably groomed Serena, I did look rather unkempt in comparison. “No, thank you,” I said, waving her off as I helped myself to some chilled fruit from the bar. I was too hungry to care about my table manners. Julian suddenly walked towards me and held out his phone. I looked up at him, confused. “Give me your account number. I’ll transfer you $300,000,” he said. “Your current situation is ultimately because of me.” “But we’re in the past now. Don’t be so stubborn.” “Stop waiting for me and move on with your life.” Julian’s phone wallpaper was a picture of Serena holding a large bouquet of flowers. Looking at her carefree smile, I felt a bit dazed. In my previous life, let alone being his wallpaper, there wasn’t a single trace of me on Julian’s phone. He didn’t even save my number because he never needed to contact me. Whether in life or work, I always arranged everything for him in advance. It turns out that love and indifference are indeed very obvious. We started dating in college and got married right after graduation. He dreamed of becoming a race car driver, while I wanted to study film directing. Two completely different dreams that would never intersect. Seeing his dejected eyes, I gave in. I gave up the opportunity to study abroad without hesitation, following him around with heavy toolboxes day after day. He didn’t have professional equipment, so I would ride my bicycle around the city at night delivering food, saving money to buy him the most expensive and best racing suits. He didn’t have a maintenance team, so I taught myself car repair techniques, taking on the work of an entire team for him alone. But he still lost. His second-hand race car, bought at a low price, could never outrun others’ latest models. Despite my tireless efforts to comfort him in his depression, he pushed me away harshly, his eyes filled with a disgust I had never seen before: “I’m sick of this boring life with you.” “If I had chosen Serena back then, I wouldn’t be living like this now.” Those words shattered all my hopes for the future. I didn’t even have time to look back at the road we had traveled before we both died in that cliff accident. I wanted to beg him to save our child. But the words were swallowed by the flames before they could leave my mouth. Since fate had given us a chance to start over, we both chose to pursue the lives we wanted. There was no need for any further contact between us. I pushed the phone back to him. “There’s no relationship between us. This isn’t necessary.”

Julian frowned, his voice trembling slightly, though he didn’t seem to notice it himself. “No relationship? What do you mean? Am I just a stranger to you now?” I looked up, meeting his gaze steadily. “Aren’t we? Our lives have no intersection. Whether I dress well or poorly, whether I live comfortably or not, what does it have to do with you?” “If you have too much money to spend, you might consider helping those in need.” Perhaps feeling that I had embarrassed him in front of everyone, Julian’s expression turned impatient. He coldly rebuked me, “Claire, stop pretending. Didn’t you show up here just to get my attention?” Seeing this, Serena gently comforted him, “Julian, don’t say that about Claire. It’s too harsh.” Turning to me, the contempt in her eyes was barely concealed, though her tone remained gentle as ever. “Claire, don’t mind Julian. He’s just concerned about an old classmate.” “How about this? I opened a private clinic on South Street. We need a receptionist there, with a salary of $7000 plus room and board.” “If you’re interested, you can work there.” Someone nearby exclaimed, “South Street is prime real estate! To have a clinic there, Serena must really be something.” “Claire, you’ve struck gold! Quick, thank Serena!” I rolled my eyes, calmly eating my fruit and refusing their offer once again. “No need. I’m very happy with my current job.” Seeing that I didn’t appreciate their gesture, those trying to curry favor with Julian immediately stood up to criticize me for being ungrateful. “Claire, I think poverty has made you crazy. Julian and Serena are trying to help you, and not only are you not grateful, but you’re acting all high and mighty.” “We’re all old classmates. Everyone knows what you’re worth. Don’t miss this opportunity for the sake of your worthless pride.” After he finished speaking, Serena pretended to stop him. “Please don’t say that about Claire… Maybe she really likes her current life.” As she spoke, her eyes welled up with tears, as if she had been bullied. Seeing the tears in Serena’s eyes, Julian pulled her into his arms, comforting her softly. “Serena, you’re just too kind.” He turned to me and said, “Claire, I didn’t expect you to still be so selfish and hypocritical.” “You really are beyond help! You only deserve the worst life has to offer.” I was curious why Julian would say such things about me. In both my previous life and this one, I had never done anything to hurt him. Why, after all these years, was he still speaking to me so harshly? I didn’t want to engage with them any further and stood up to go to the private room upstairs. However, a former male classmate blocked my way. He held a drink and leered at me as he approached. “Claire, I always hated that high-and-mighty act of yours. Never thought I’d see you like this.” “How about you drink with me? $500 per glass, what do you say?” “If you let me hold your hand, I might even pay extra.” I looked closely and barely recognized him as the guy who had confessed to me at the graduation ceremony. I think his name was Jack. At the time, I was focused on securing a spot for further studies abroad, so I had flatly rejected his advances. I didn’t expect him to hold a grudge for so long. Everyone was laughing, and no one came to my aid. I frowned. It wasn’t my intention to join their gathering. If I hadn’t had a prior appointment, I would have left long ago. The security guards were nowhere to be seen. As I was about to push him away, Julian, who had been quietly watching everything, suddenly threw his glass violently at Jack. His tone was ice-cold: “Stay away from her.” Jack, now drenched in alcohol, was about to lash out but stopped when he realized it was Julian. He could only turn back and glare at me viciously. The glass shattered on the floor. Serena’s schadenfreude smile instantly vanished as she looked at Julian in disbelief. “Julian, what are you doing?” Julian didn’t even glance at her, his eyes fixed on me. “This is my event tonight. I don’t want any accidents happening here.” I took two steps back, wiping the alcohol off my pants. “The security here is really poor.” Serena looked at me, her eyes almost shooting fire. “You’re complaining now?” “Do you know where you are? This is the property of Adrian, the movie star. If it weren’t for Julian, someone like you wouldn’t be able to set foot in here in a lifetime.” At the mention of Adrian, several female classmates suddenly became excited. “Is that the Adrian who’s won all those awards at such a young age and has been on the city’s richest list for five consecutive years?” “I heard he already has a child, but his wife has never been seen in public.” Just then, the main door was suddenly pushed open. A little girl, surrounded by a group of bodyguards, entered the hall. The girl looked around curiously. A butler in a suit followed closely behind her, cautiously saying, “Miss, please walk slowly. Be careful not to bump into anything.” The old classmates became excited instantly. “Someone who can freely enter a private event and is called ‘Miss’ must be the movie star’s little princess!” “My goodness, she looks exactly like Adrian!” I was about to step forward when the man who had been splashed with alcohol by Julian earlier blocked my path again. He didn’t dare confront Julian, so he took out his frustration on me: “Claire, if it weren’t for Julian, how could someone like you even get to see the movie star’s daughter? I suggest you kneel down and apologize to me right now. If I’m in a good mood, I might even marry you.” “A good man like me with a stable monthly income of $5000 is hard to come by. I advise you to be sensible!” I ignored him and watched as the movie star’s daughter was surrounded by people. They bombarded her with questions, and some had already taken out their phones to take pictures. Serena’s face no longer showed the arrogance from earlier. Instead, she wore a fawning smile: “Little sister, is your daddy Adrian?” After getting confirmation from the little girl, Serena’s smile became even more ingratiating: “What are you doing here? Would you like some fruit? Let sister get it for you.” As she spoke, she reached out to touch the girl’s face. The little girl pushed Serena’s hand away and walked straight towards me. Under everyone’s gaze, she threw herself into my arms, sweetly calling out: “Mommy!” Her bright eyes instantly filled with tears as she looked at me pitifully: “Mommy, Lily missed you so much!” “Why didn’t you answer Lily’s call yesterday?” I held her in my arms, comforting her softly: “Mommy was rehearsing with the actors on set yesterday and didn’t check her phone. Mommy won’t do it again. Can Lily forgive mommy?” Lily smiled brightly at me and planted a kiss on my cheek with a “mwah” sound. “Lily isn’t mad at mommy. I was just worried about you.” I poked her cheek: “Mommy’s little Lily is the best.”

Everyone present was shocked, all looking at us with disbelief. Julian stood frozen, frowning as he was about to speak. A handsome man wearing sunglasses rushed in from the entrance. “Honey, why didn’t you message me that you got off work early today? I would have picked you up. There’s so much traffic, I worry about you going alone.” “The manager told me your classmates are having a gathering here?” He put his arm around my shoulder, took off his sunglasses, and smiled at everyone: “Hello, I’m Claire’s husband. My name is Adrian.” “Tonight’s gathering is on me. You’re all Claire’s classmates, so feel free to make any requests. I hope everyone has a great time tonight.” The man who had just tried to get me to drink with him suddenly turned pale, while almost all the female classmates became so excited they could barely speak coherently: “Claire is actually the movie star’s wife!” “Oh my god, it’s like a drama come to life. This is too perfect!” Hearing this, I just smiled without responding. Adrian turned his head, his gaze scanning Julian up and down. After a while, he gave a contemptuous smile and said in a neutral tone: “So you’re Claire’s college boyfriend?” “I should thank you. It’s because of you that I was able to marry such a perfect wife.” Julian didn’t respond, his gaze fixed on me: “Claire, are you lying again?” “Are they actors you hired from somewhere?” I sighed, directly taking Adrian’s hand and showing the wedding ring symbolizing our vows to Julian: “He is my only husband, Adrian.” “I never lie, and I have no reason to lie to you.” Julian suddenly panicked: “But you said you would only love me forever!” Fearing that Adrian might get jealous, I quickly explained to him: “I never said that. Never.” These words made Julian’s face lose all color. He wanted to argue but knew he was in the wrong. In my previous life, I had indeed promised at our wedding to love only him for life. Living this life again, he chose a different path for himself. What right did he have to demand that I fulfill the promises of my previous life? Julian couldn’t accept it: “Even so, we were once in love. How can you be with someone else so casually? Does our past mean nothing to you?” Beside him, Serena’s face had turned completely pale. Looking at the photos still rolling on the big screen, I sighed helplessly: “Aren’t you with Serena now?” “Half an hour ago, you were proposing to her. Now you’re accusing me of not cherishing our past.” Julian had organized this gathering, and almost everyone had come with the intention of currying favor with him. When I was harassed by a male classmate, not one person reached out to help me. Now that they knew my identity, they started to criticize Julian and Serena. “That’s right, Julian. Let it go. Claire is so happy now, you shouldn’t disturb her anymore.” “After all, who wouldn’t love a handsome and rich movie star?” Serena couldn’t bear to listen anymore. She stepped forward, trying to hold Julian’s hand: “Julian, let’s go. I’m your fiancée now. You and Claire have nothing to do with each other anymore.” But as soon as her hand touched Julian, he violently shook it off. Serena lost her balance and fell onto the broken glass. Her delicate hand was instantly cut with several shallow wounds. Her face immediately turned red, and she looked at me with resentful eyes. Adrian’s smile deepened as he spoke leisurely: “Mr. Summers, you’re not regretting your choice and wanting to win my wife back now, are you?” “Claire is indeed very charming, but she’s not interested in just anyone. Mr. Summers, it’s best not to overestimate yourself.” Having his thoughts exposed by Adrian, Julian froze on the spot, stuttering as he tried to explain: “No… I…” I raised my hand to interrupt him, my tone cold: “Julian, the past can only be the past.” “I have a happy family now, and you’ve found your true love as you wished.” “Let’s not say any more meaningless words.” Our daughter had clearly lost interest in the situation. She tugged on Adrian’s hand and pouted: “Daddy, I don’t want to celebrate my birthday here anymore. I want to go home and eat the food you and mommy cook.” Adrian asked the butler to take our daughter to the car. Holding my hand, he gave a meaningful look to everyone present. “I heard that someone offered a high price of $500 earlier, wanting my wife to drink with them?” Jack’s face instantly turned pale. His shoulders trembling, he apologized profusely: “It was me… I was blind and offended Mrs. Smith. Please… please be magnanimous and forgive me.” He hung his head, stuttering slightly due to extreme nervousness. With just a glance from Adrian, the bodyguards behind him lifted Jack and dragged him into a side room. After dealing with Jack, Adrian turned his attention to Serena: “I also heard that you wanted my wife to work as a cleaner at your clinic?” “As it happens, I own an entire block of businesses in the South District. If even the cleaning staff needs to be personally recruited by the owner, I think I should reconsider the lease renewal.” The threat in his words was clear. Serena managed to squeeze out a smile, hiding slightly behind Julian: “I was just joking with your wife. Please don’t take it to heart…” Adrian then looked up, his gaze sweeping over those who had spoken disrespectfully to me earlier. They all lowered their heads, not daring to even breathe loudly. After all this, he finally turned to me, giving me a flirtatious wink. I knew what that meant. He was seeking praise for standing up for me. I took his hand and turned to leave. Just as we stepped out of the main door, Julian caught up with us. He called out to me: “Claire!”

The late autumn wind was chilly, and I instinctively hugged my arms. I signaled Adrian to wait for me in the car. After hesitating for a moment, he draped his coat over my shoulders before getting into the car. Even when facing Julian, he chose to respect and trust me. I clutched Adrian’s coat tightly, watching Julian approach with unsteady steps. His eyes were dark and unreadable. “Why did you marry Adrian? Is he really better than me?” I was speechless at his words, but thinking back to everything that happened before I married Adrian, I couldn’t help but smile. That year, I was still a rookie director barely stepping into the film industry. Even new media short drama producers wouldn’t look at my scripts. To chase my dream, I had spent almost all my savings. When I was at my wits’ end, Adrian took on my script. He didn’t look down on me. Instead, he carefully went over the plot details with me, recommended suitable actors, and helped me win my first director’s award. On the day I received the award, he confessed his feelings to me. I won’t deny that I had developed feelings for him during our long association, but because of the shadows from my past life, I forced myself to stay calm. I asked him: “If I’m with you, can I still continue my career as a director?” Adrian was surprised by my question: “You’re an independent person. You can do anything you want without needing my permission. I love you, so I’ll support you with all my might.” I took a deep breath and continued: “I like children.” Adrian chuckled softly: “So do I.” I accepted his pursuit, and from that day on, he became the catalyst for my new beginning. Later, we got married. Adrian respected my wishes and held a simple wedding in a church with only close friends and family. Then, we had Lily. Seeing my happy expression, Julian felt as if his heart was being pricked by needles. With reddened eyes, he asked me again: “That little girl, is she really your child?” “Yes.” “You weren’t willing to have a child with me, why could you have one with him!” Hearing this, I suddenly recalled the ultrasound report I had clutched tightly until my death in my previous life. That child had already developed a regular heartbeat, but ended up perishing with me in the fire. My chest hurt so much I could barely breathe, and my vision blurred with tears. Julian was still accusing me of betraying him. Finally, I couldn’t hold back anymore and slapped him across the face. Julian held his swollen cheek, looking at me in disbelief. “We once had a child.” “On the day you drove us off the cliff, I was going to tell you.” “I used to feel incredibly guilty about that child, but now I’m just relieved. At least my child didn’t have a father like you.” Upon hearing this, Julian froze on the spot. He covered his mouth, as if he had received a massive shock, and asked me with a trembling voice: “No, didn’t you go to have an abortion that day?” “Serena told me she saw you enter the abortion clinic with her own eyes!” “She said you thought I was too poor, so you didn’t want to have my child!” At that moment, I finally understood why Julian had called me selfish when we met again after all these years. “If I really looked down on you, why would I have married you without hesitation?” Julian was completely devastated. He collapsed on the ground, mumbling: “I killed my child… I killed them.” Tears rolled down my cheeks as I looked at the man before me, feeling nothing but ridicule. “I walked with you for so long, gave you so much, yet you easily believed someone else’s words.” I turned to leave, but Julian grabbed my hand: “Claire, I was wrong. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have doubted you.” “Please come back to me. I can’t live without you.” I shook my head and pulled my hand away: “Julian, you forgot.” “‘Let’s never see each other again in this life.’ Those were your words that day.” I understood that no one could change the past. Fortunately, I had truly let go.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “321848”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #重生Reborn

My girlfriend made me hand over everything I’d accomplished to her first love. I even gave him the CEO title. Not because I was foolish, but because I knew one thing for sure— he couldn’t handle it. Without me, they couldn’t even get the drones off the ground. And the royal drone show contract came with a penalty clause she could never pay. Later, when she got on her knees and begged me to come back, I only said one thing: “We’re already divorced.” Chapter 1 Chloe Sterling, my wife, stood on stage, holding Ethan Moore’s hand. “Ethan, the Sterling Group’s success is thanks to you,” she announced. “This year’s entire bonus is yours.” She handed him a five-million-dollar check. The room erupted in applause. Chloe’s father, Richard Sterling, nodded in approval while our colleagues crowded around, cheering them on. “With Mr. Moore leading, our global expansion is guaranteed!” “Mr. Sterling and Chloe have a real eye for talent. And Chloe and Ethan? They work better together than most married couples!” I stood at the back of the crowd, watching the celebration, my technical proposal crumpled in my fist. Today was supposed to be the company’s annual bonus ceremony. But just as I entered the conference hall, Chloe got a call. There was a reported malfunction in the drone system—I was needed at the testing site immediately. After years together, I trusted her without question. I didn’t even grab lunch before rushing over. My team and I spent all day troubleshooting under the blazing sun, over 100 degrees. But seeing Chloe hand the entire bonus to Ethan, an intern who’d been here less than a month, it all became clear. The system glitch was just an excuse to get me out of the way. She was ready to hand my three years of work—my life’s achievement—straight to her first love. Ethan pretended to notice me then, feigning surprise. “Mr. Carter, you made it! We thought you might not show, so we started without you. Hope you don’t mind.” His words were polite, but his eyes held a clear challenge as he waved the check in my direction. Chloe shot me an impatient look. “Liam, what’s with the attitude? Did you expect the chairman and everyone to just wait for you? No wonder you drag your feet on every project bid. You’re deadweight. Since you’re here, hand over the Aldonia project to Ethan now. At least then we won’t have to worry about you messing it up.” I clenched my fists at her tone, my heart turning cold. The Aldonia project was a massive deal I’d spent three years securing. It was my life’s work. The Aldonian Crown Prince had provided a five-million-dollar advance. But to ensure thousands of drones could operate flawlessly in the desert, I’d pulled endless all-nighters. The constant travel, the jet lag, the stress-induced health issues—I’d pushed through it all. Now, just as the project was nearing completion, Chloe wanted to snatch it away with a few words and hand it to her ex. I almost laughed at how pathetic my dedication had been. Ten years ago, the Sterling Group was nearly bankrupt, unable to pay its staff. Chloe took over, announcing plans to pivot to drone technology. Without hesitation, I left my well-paying tech job and poured all my savings into building her dream from scratch. But with a background in fashion, she couldn’t even read basic code, let alone handle R&D. For years, I was the backbone of the company’s tech. Every patent bore my name. Every crisis required my attention. When we were struggling for funding, Richard refused to help, looking down on me. My parents sold their home and life savings to keep us afloat. That was what saved the Sterling Group. Only then did marrying Chloe even become an option. But I wasn’t just a husband—I was the “married-in” husband, taking her family name. Richard never missed a chance to mock my humble roots, acting as though the Sterling family was doing me a favor by letting me in. I didn’t care back then, because I was in love with Chloe. I would have done anything for her. But I never expected that after a few business trips abroad with Ethan… he’d effortlessly take credit for my work. Chloe and I had been married for ten years. Yet somehow, I still ranked below her ex, who’d treated her poorly. Today, she finally burned away the last bit of feeling I had left. After a long silence, I spoke calmly. “Fine. Do what you want.” Ethan couldn’t hide his smug grin, though he played humble. “Ms. Sterling, I’m just a beginner. How could I take over your billion-dollar international project? I heard you’ve struggled with it for three years. I only want to help.” Chloe placed a hand on his shoulder. “Ethan, you’re an Ivy League graduate! If you can’t handle this, no one here can.” Richard added firmly, “Exactly. Don’t sell yourself short. You’re better than that loser anyway.” I almost laughed out loud. Ethan’s degree was just a piece of paper. During his interview, he couldn’t explain basic control theory. But the Sterlings were determined to back him, paying him a fortune. After soothing Ethan, Chloe turned to mock me. “Liam, do you really think you’d be anywhere without me? You’ve had it too easy. You’ve forgotten your place. Making a fuss over handing over one project? If Ethan hadn’t put in a good word for you, Dad and I would’ve kicked you out long ago.” I laughed inwardly. Had she already forgotten that without me, the company’s drones wouldn’t even function? I built the tech team from scratch. Now that the Sterlings were on top, they saw me as a burden. They kept talking, painting me as the family’s biggest embarrassment. Taking a deep breath, I walked up to Ethan under Chloe’s scornful gaze. Everyone watched, probably thinking this pushover was finally about to snap. But I just smiled calmly. I pulled the CEO transfer papers from my bag and dropped them at Ethan’s feet. “Managing thousands of drones must be exhausting. How about I just make you CEO instead?” Chapter 2 The room fell silent, everyone staring in disbelief. The Sterling Group executives whispered, thinking I’d lost my mind. After all, everyone knew I’d worked tirelessly for a decade, asking for nothing in return. “Mr. Carter, you’re the company’s second-in-command! It’s just one project. Don’t throw away your future over a rash decision!” Hearing this, Chloe seemed to think I was threatening her. Her face flushed with anger. “Liam, have you lost it?” she snapped. “How dare you act up after a little criticism? Let me remind you—you’re only the CEO on paper. I’m the one who really runs this group.” I laughed inside. She should’ve been thrilled I was stepping down. Wasn’t this her dream? To see her beloved ex take the top spot? Ethan clutched the transfer document, greed flashing in his eyes. But he played the humble hero. “Mr. Carter, are you offering this in anger? Please don’t misunderstand. Chloe was just trying to help me catch up. It’s for the good of the Sterling Group. Besides, how could I replace you? You’re a veteran here. The CEO role isn’t for someone like me.” He made a show of handing the document back, but his grip stayed tight, as if afraid I’d take it. Seeing his act, I smiled faintly. “Why would I be angry? You’re an Ivy League returnee. I’m thrilled to bring in fresh talent. I have every confidence in you as CEO.” Chloe gave me a suspicious look, then snorted. “Ethan, since he’s offering, just take it. With your skills, you’d have gotten there anyway. Everyone here is a witness.” The moment she finished, Ethan stopped pretending and hugged the document, his eyes gleaming. Watching him, I sneered inwardly. Chloe, busy flirting with Ethan, had no idea how technically demanding the Aldonia project was. I’d spent a year perfecting the desert formation algorithm. But they didn’t know the core program was still on my encrypted drive, not yet handed over. Even if they stole it, without my notes, it would take months to crack. Without me, how could they possibly pull off a show with tens of thousands of drones? What they saw as a goldmine would become a swarm of locusts. Plus, Ethan probably didn’t realize that being CEO meant taking on all the responsibility. If the Aldonia show failed, they’d not only owe millions in penalties—they’d face the royal family’s wrath. Not to mention the competitors waiting to pounce. Since they thought I was useless, I saw no need to warn them. The day the project failed would be the day the Sterlings fell. Chloe seemed almost embarrassed by my easy surrender. She cleared her throat haughtily. “Alright, Liam, stop standing there. You’ll need to hand over your work. We’re celebrating Ethan’s success tonight. Since you’re being reasonable, you can join us.” Her condescending tone was almost funny. If the Aldonia project succeeded, the bonus would be tens of millions. They cut me out of the profits, and now a dinner was supposed to make it okay? The thought of eating with a weasel like Ethan made me sick. I was about to decline when he chimed in, fake concern plastered on his face. “Oh dear, Mr. Carter, I booked the private room before you arrived, so I didn’t save you a seat. My apologies. I might’ve sprained my ankle today, but I should make it right. Please, have a seat. I’ll fetch a chair and some drinks.” I knew he was playing the victim to score points. Sure enough, Chloe fretted over him, guiding him to a chair. “Ethan, you’ve done more than enough for the company. This huge project rests on you. We can’t have you running errands.” She shot me a disgusted look. “What are you waiting for? After all your years here, don’t you have any sense? Either go get the drinks, or don’t bother coming!” Her double standards made me scoff. Chloe always took me for granted. I’d worked day and night but was never included in team dinners. Now they acted like they were doing me a favor. Ethan, pushing his luck, smirked. “Mr. Carter, so sorry to trouble you. I’ll make sure to toast you properly later…” Before he could finish, I let out a cold laugh and kicked the leather executive chair out from under him. Chapter 3 Ethan stumbled back, tripping over a chair. He crashed headfirst into the million-dollar holographic projector. Glass shattered. I watched him scramble up, blood trickling down his forehead, and sneered. “What, did the star student’s ankle heal miraculously? That was some agility. Were you a tap dancer in a past life?” Chloe froze as if doused in ice water. Then she rushed to Ethan’s side, whirling on me with a roar. “Liam, have you lost your mind? What if Ethan’s hurt? I get it now! You can’t stand seeing him succeed, so you’re sabotaging the project!” I scoffed. “Jealous of an idiot? Please.” “And,” I added, “I’ve already resigned. So drop the boss act. I’m done playing your games.” Chloe trembled, eyes red, about to retort. I strode out of the conference room without looking back. The sounds of chaos and Richard’s shouts faded behind me. I packed my things from my office, my gaze lingering on the velvet box on my desk. It was a custom bracelet I’d ordered from overseas. An anniversary gift for Chloe. How ironic now. Staring at it, I drifted back. In college, Chloe was my goddess. I knew I was just an ordinary guy, not worthy of an heiress like her. So I silently adored her—running errands, buying lunch, even doing her homework. And yes, she took me for granted, treating me like a backup. One day, I found a silver bracelet she’d lost and tried to return it. But she threw it into a dirty ditch and told me to “step up” and be her boyfriend. Everyone said she was just lashing out after her first love dumped her, taking revenge on me. But I refused to believe it. I doubled down, convinced my love would win her over. Like a loyal puppy, I revolved around her 24/7. I showered her with gifts, always planning surprises. Even after ten years of marriage, nothing changed. Our anniversary was always marked in my calendar, though Chloe never remembered. I knew she was never truly passionate about me, but I believed she loved me in her way. Maybe that was just how she showed love. So, I accepted being a powerless CEO and the Sterling family’s live-in husband. I thought our life would stay happy. But I underestimated the pull of her first love. It wasn’t until I saw her with Ethan—the unconcealed affection in her eyes—that I realized my ten years of devotion were self-deception. Maybe Ethan had always had a place in her heart. And I was just a disposable stand-in. Just as I was about to toss the gift, I bumped into Chloe and her entourage returning to the office. “Well, well, Liam, weren’t you the tough guy earlier?” she sneered. “Can’t you be less petty? Resorting to cheap tricks?” Chloe stood in the doorway, arm in arm with Ethan, executives trailing behind. I sneered inwardly. This shameless pair wasn’t even hiding it. Ethan tugged Chloe’s sleeve, feigning concern. “Chloe, Mr. Carter must want to apologize. Look at the bracelet in his hand. He probably got it to beg your forgiveness!” Chloe paused, then scoffed. “Hah! Does he think a cheap bracelet will win me over? If Ethan hadn’t stopped me, I’d have called security…” She reached for the bracelet. I frowned and tossed it straight into the trash. “You’re sick,” I said. “Even trash looks good to you. Get that delusion checked.” Chapter 4 Without waiting for her reaction, I grabbed my briefcase and left. I headed home to pack. It was time to end this charade. But I’d barely started when the door slammed open. Chloe stormed in, fuming. “Liam, have you lost it today? Humiliating me in front of everyone? Have you forgotten you’re just my live-in husband?” Ethan trailed behind, pretending to be concerned. “Mr. Carter, I wanted to speak up for you, but you went too far. Is it because Chloe and I are close that you feel threatened? We’re just colleagues. If you misunderstand, there’s nothing I can do. I don’t want to be the ‘other man.’ I should leave.” He made a show of leaving, but his steps were slow. Chloe grabbed his arm, soothing. “Ethan, you’re right. He’s just a live-in husband. Who is he to tell you to leave?” She turned to me, teeth gritted. “Liam, you’ve disappointed me. You’ve changed. You’re disgusting! Apologize to Ethan, or I’ll kick you out!” I clenched my fists. It wasn’t the first time she’d threatened me with divorce. Every time we argued over Ethan, she’d dangle expulsion over my head. Back then, like a fool, I gave in, thinking she’d one day see me as her real husband. Now, I realized I’d been blind. I didn’t need a woman like this. Seeing my silence, Chloe assumed I’d back down. She tossed her hair triumphantly. “Actually, I don’t have to kick you out. As long as you and Ethan…” I cut her off. “Enough. I’ll leave. Let’s get a divorce.” Chloe was thunderstruck, mouth agape. Ethan jumped in. “Mr. Carter, even if you’re angry, you can’t joke about divorce!” I pulled the divorce papers from my bag and slapped them on the table. “I’m not joking. Sign it. Let’s end this.” Chloe finally realized I was serious. She pointed a trembling finger at me. “Fine! Get out! Go ahead and regret it!” A gleam of triumph flashed in Ethan’s eyes, but he feigned concern. “Mr. Carter, think this through. You’re part of the Sterling family. Once you leave, you lose that status. Without them, what will you have?” His meaning was clear: I was nothing without the Sterlings. Chloe, emboldened, added, “Exactly! Who’d want a nobody like you without the chances we gave you? You couldn’t handle this project, but Ethan managed it effortlessly. Once Aldonia’s show is done, our company will soar!” I scoffed. Soar? They were headed for bankruptcy! Without my core program, Ethan’s amateur skills couldn’t synchronize ten drones, let alone ten thousand. The Aldonian royal family wasn’t to be trifled with. When the project failed, the company would be ruined. Just then, Chloe’s phone rang. She shot me a smug look. “Look, it’s Prince Malik’s secretary. Once this payment comes through, I’m taking Ethan on vacation! And you? You can cry in your crappy rental!” She put the phone on speaker, eager to flaunt her triumph. A second later, a furious roar erupted from the phone. “You useless idiots! This is the billion-dollar show you bragged about? It can’t even fly in a test run! How dare you scam me! I’ll destroy your company!”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “321847”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #重生Reborn