My uncle and I started kindergarten together. On the first day, I cried loudly, screaming for my mom. My uncle, couldn’t take it anymore, fiercely shoved a lollipop into my mouth. “Stop crying. From now on, call me Mom.” I sniffled, licked the candy, and said, “Oh.” “Mom, I want more.” [The evil supporting character was so easily bribed with a lollipop as a kid?] [OMG, such a cute little dumpling! How did she grow up to be a heartbreaker?] Later, in my teenage years, my heart started fluttering, and I found myself a few handsome boyfriends. My uncle looked at them with disdain, finding fault with everything. “This one, dressed up like a peacock all day, looks like he’s afraid of hard work.” “That one looks spoiled rotten, can’t even open his eyes properly. Not marriage material.” “And that one looks fierce, like a domestic abuser!” I’ve always been a mama’s girl, so I asked my uncle, “Little Mom, who should I pick then?” My uncle stammered, suddenly blushing. 1 The evil supporting character lacks love. That’s why my parents left early. One went to India, the other to Congo. They said they were expanding into new markets. They came back less than twice a year, and each time they looked more like Godzilla. I am a righteous little flower fairy. I hate Godzilla. I don’t need parents. 2 Until I started kindergarten. The heroine’s beautiful mother carried her in. She gently adjusted the heroine’s collar, glowing like an angel. I was mesmerized. She bent down and patted the heroine’s head, “Be good, sweetie. Mommy will pick you up after school.” My parents must be this big flower fairy! I cried like a boiling kettle. What kind of life have I been living these past few years? I sincerely threw myself over, hugging the big flower fairy’s leg, “Mommy, I want a hug.” Other kids caught the contagion, “Mommy, wuuwuu, Mommy.” In the small classroom, a dozen kettles started boiling together. Toot-toot-toot, steam rising everywhere. It was spectacular. Miss Flower’s head was about to explode. She couldn’t help but urge the heroine’s mom to leave, “Mrs. Han, we understand your worry, but kindergarten is the first step in letting go.” Mrs. Han left. Bella cried her heart out. I chased after the big flower fairy relentlessly, screaming my lungs out, “Mommy, Mommy don’t go!” The whole class chased with me, “Mommy, Mommy.” Miss Flower scrambled to stop us. Bella couldn’t take it anymore. She rushed over and shoved me hard, “That’s my mom!” I cried even harder. The room was in chaos. Miss Flower had a headache and called the heroine’s dad to complain. [The evil supporting character definitely provoked the heroine on purpose. So scheming at such a young age.] [Crying so pitifully just to drive the heroine’s mom away.] [More than that, I think she wants to steal the heroine’s mom. Such a green tea bitch already.] I couldn’t read. I was illiterate. I cried even harder because the big flower fairy left. 3 My uncle couldn’t take it anymore. He was the child adopted by my grandparents. He always took care of me, but I never liked him. Ridiculous. How could the Queen of Fairyland be bossed around by a brat? I ignored him and kept crying. Lucas fiercely shoved a lollipop into my mouth, then gently wiped away my tears. “Stop crying. From now on, call me Mom.” Kindergarten was strict about snacks. One lollipop per person per day. Mmm, sweet. Wuuwuuwuu, sweet. In that moment, he radiated maternal glory in my eyes. I sniffled, licked the candy, “Oh.” “Mom, I want more.” My uncle clenched his own lollipop, peeled it carefully, cursing under his breath, “Just eat yours.” I stopped crying. [The evil supporting character was so easily bribed with a lollipop as a kid?] [OMG, such a cute little dumpling! How did she grow up to be a heartbreaker?] [So cute! Auntie wants to eat her up!] I took the lollipop and grinned at the heroine. “My mom gave it to me.” “Where’s your mom?” [As expected of the evil supporting character, terrifying at such a young age!] The heroine cried louder. 4 Two lollipops a day gave me cavities. I gaped in disbelief, “Foolish tooth decay, leave this king’s mouth at once!” [Didn’t expect the evil supporting character to have such innocent moments.] Since her defeat in kindergarten, Bella Han had it out for me. She mocked me, “Are you a three-year-old?” I wanted to scold back but accidentally touched my sore spot, howling in pain, “Mom!” Lucas charged over from the soccer field like the wind, “You’re bullying our Wanwan again.” Bella Han was dumbfounded, “Bad guy! Stop giving her lollipops! She has cavities!” Lucas froze, turned around, and examined my mouth carefully, heartbroken, “I didn’t take good care of you!” From that day on. No more lollipops for me! And “Mom” watched me brush my teeth. Bella Han deliberately waved a lollipop in front of me. “Do you want some?” “Lollipops are so yummy.” I stomped my foot, “Bella Han! You… hmph!” [Sure enough, the supporting character and heroine are born enemies.] [Cute, two little dumplings.] I hugged Lucas’s leg, “Mom, mom, mom, she’s tempting me, wuuwuuwuu.” “Don’t cry.” Lucas patted my head. And snatched three of Bella Han’s red flower stickers. I grinned, showing my teeth, and ran to show off in front of her. “Violet Qin, have some shame! You didn’t earn those.” “Hey, who told your mom not to come to kindergarten?” [Wait, was this the only time the heroine got hit as a kid?] [Yes, the heroine went back and insisted her mom attend kindergarten too.] 5 In elementary school, I taught myself the skill of dog training. With just a few chocolates, I got over half the class to volunteer as my dogs. But being my dog had requirements. No ugly ones, no bad tempers, no bad grades. For example, the one next to me with fair skin, a quiet voice, good looks, and little pear dimples when he smiles. He’s my Dog Number One! And that one, dark skin, runs fast, short hair. Dog Number Two. The blonde one with blue eyes, stutters a bit (supposedly a British accent, so tacky), but has a dazzling smile. Currently ranked third, often competing for second. Bella Han was unhappy, “Why do you have dogs and I don’t!” She tried everything. She looked down on others in class and couldn’t reach those outside. After trying, she gained three “bros.” Her: “Be my dog, I’ll give you chocolate.” Him: “You insult me!” [Heroine baby, stop struggling. You didn’t put points in this skill.] [The supporting character is naturally gifted. It’s the power of genes.] I could understand half the words on the bullet screen now. I lifted my chin, “That’s right, talent. I have talent.” “You are just ordinary humans without talent~” Oh no, the heroine cried again. After crying, she came to me, voice buzzing like a mosquito, “Share one with me.” “Share who?” I picked my ear. She shut her eyes tight, unwilling to admit defeat but desperate to play, “I mean share one with me.” “Share one what?” Bella Han gave up, “I mean, share one dog with me!” Dog~~~ Dog~~ Dog~ 5 Honestly, I was getting bored. But seeing Bella want it so bad, I gained a bit of interest, pretending to be reluctant. Until Bella offered me her limited edition Elsa doll. Who can refuse Elsa? I certainly can’t. But she had a demand: one of my top 3. News spread. Everyone was in danger—no, every dog was in danger. Today my deskmate brought milk, dimples showing, “Wanwan, for you.” I gave him a White Rabbit candy, “Good boy, little dog is sweet like candy.” Tomorrow Dark Skin helped me clean, sweeping the floor shiny, “Wanwan, I’m done.” I used my floral handkerchief to wipe his sweat, “So strong. Pat pat. Chocolate reward tomorrow.” Number Three got anxious, nuzzling into my arms, whining like a big golden retriever. My heart melted. “Don’t worry, I like you, like you, like you the most.” [The evil supporting character really knows how to play. Fishing for men like fishing for dogs.] [Easily turning them into simps.] [No wonder the original male lead liked the supporting character first. With her skills, who wouldn’t fall?] Unable to decide which one to abandon, I prepared to dump the pot on Lucas, who just returned from training camp. “Mom, which one should I pick?” The three puppies were well-behaved. They were gearing up for a fight, but behaved in front of Lucas. They shouted with me, “Mom.” Lucas got a shade darker. He just finished the training arranged by grandparents and skipped a grade, only to be hit by this news. “You mean, I was gone for two weeks, and you got three more dogs?” “Did you ask me before getting dogs!”

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1 For our New Year’s team-building trip, our boss, in a fit of holiday cheer, decided to fly the whole company to Miami for New Year’s Eve. But when we got there, he stuck the three of us—the company’s top salespeople—in a $10-a-night, mixed-dorm hostel. He and everyone else checked into a five-star private villa. “Talented people can thrive anywhere,” he’d said with a smug grin. “Consider this a little exercise to build character!” The moment he left, Kevin, our sales king, coolly sent a single text message. A major client immediately replied, saying they’d be delaying their final payment… by six months. Jessica, our sales queen, made a simple phone call. A loyal client of three years promptly announced they would not be renewing their contract. As for me, I called my family. “Hey, Dad? Yeah, about that ten-million-dollar contract we just nailed down… you can go ahead and scrap it.” This was beyond absurd. I’ve heard of bosses casting people aside once they’ve served their purpose, but I’ve never seen one chop down his own money tree at the roots. … To be honest, we were stunned when he led us to the front door of that grimy hostel. Before we left New York, he had promised us, his three star employees, a huge surprise. So, the regular staff got a five-star resort, while the three of us who had single-handedly brought in nine figures of business for the company were supposed to sleep in a dorm? Can someone please tell me what part of this is the goddamn “surprise”? Seeing the thunderous looks on our faces, the boss clapped his hands together. “You three are the pillars of this company! Staying here will sharpen your resolve, which will only help you bring in even more business!” Kevin was the first to snap. “Boss, this is a company retreat. What’s the point of ‘sharpening our resolve’?” he asked, his brow furrowed. “And why do the other employees get a five-star hotel while we don’t?” That’s when the boss’s wife, Brenda, let out a derisive snort. “Oh, Kevin, don’t play dumb. My husband, Richard, has too soft a heart. He pays you salespeople far too much in commission! The millions you three take home every year have left the company with no money for your hotel rooms!” Her words hit us like a slap in the face. So that was it. They thought we were overpaid. But our commission structure was written in black and white in our contracts. We earned every penny based on our performance. And sure, our commissions were high, but the profits we brought in for them were ten times higher. The moment I pointed this out, Brenda just smirked. “Mia, that’s where you’re wrong,” she said coldly. “It’s the company’s kindness that allows you to earn so much. The rules have nothing to do with it.” Seeing that arguing with her was pointless, Jessica turned to the boss. “Richard, you have to give us a real explanation. We’ve worked our asses off for you, bringing in deal after deal. Is this really how you’re going to treat us?” You could hear the hurt in her voice. She’d been with the company since the very beginning, a loyal employee who’d helped build it from the ground up. Before Richard could even open his mouth, one of our colleagues piped up. “Come on, Jessica. You guys make millions a year in commissions. What’s the big deal about paying for your own room?” “Yeah,” another one chimed in. “If I were making that kind of money, I wouldn’t even take such a high commission!” “The boss and his wife were kind enough to give us jobs. We should show a little gratitude!” Listening to them all brown-nosing, I couldn’t hold back any longer. “That’s a load of crap, and you know it,” I said, my voice rising. “The company is paying for your rooms, isn’t it? Boss, this retreat was supposed to be all-expenses-paid. Are you really telling us we have to cover our own accommodation?” The tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife. Finally, the boss spoke. He sighed dramatically. “Kevin, Jessica, Mia… my wife is right. I’ve been too soft on you. The high commissions have made you all arrogant. You’re our top salespeople, right? The most talented? Well, talented people can thrive anywhere. This is my final decision. Now, stop making trouble.” With that, he turned and led the rest of the staff toward their five-star paradise, leaving the three of us standing on the curb in front of a sketchy $10 hostel. The second he was out of sight, all three of us pulled out our phones. 2 We all made our calls, then put our phones away in near-perfect sync. Kevin spoke first, his voice dangerously calm. “If he wants to play dirty, so can I. That three-million-dollar payment can wait another six months.” Jessica shrugged. “Don’t worry about my end. That major client I’ve managed for three years won’t be renewing their contract next year.” I offered a sheepish smile. “And I just told my dad to kill that ten-million-dollar deal.” Truth be told, I was the youngest of the three and not quite as experienced as my two colleagues. But I had one major advantage: a very rich father. The business his company alone fed to ours was enough to keep the lights on and then some. If our boss wanted to make an enemy of all three of us at once, then we were done playing nice. I couldn’t wait to see how high and mighty he and his wife would act when their cash cows were gone. After handling our business, we booked ourselves rooms at the same five-star resort. We were on vacation, after all. Even if we had to pay for it ourselves, we were going to enjoy it. We had just settled in by the infinity pool, soaking up the sun, when we saw Richard and his flock of employees walking toward us. The moment Brenda saw us, she let out a little laugh. “See, honey? I told you. They’re loaded. They just paid for their own five-star rooms! The company didn’t have to spend a dime!” She clapped her hands. “Actually, since you’re all here, now is a perfect time to announce the twenty-one new regulations for the sales department! Listen up!” As we stared in disbelief, she meticulously read from a list on her phone. “Rule number one: All salespeople must strictly clock in and out at the office. Missing a punch will be treated as a three-day unexcused absence.” “Rule number two: All client chat logs must be submitted for daily review.” “Rule number three: Top-tier sales commission will be reduced from twenty percent to two percent!” … She wasn’t even finished before the three of us burst out laughing. As salespeople, we were constantly out of the office meeting clients. If we were forced to clock in and out like desk jockeys, how were we supposed to generate any revenue? It was obvious what this was really about: she thought we made too much money and wanted to cut our pay. But we had earned every single one of those deals. Kevin was the first to object, but Richard just waved him off. “Kevin, you can’t have a company without rules. We may be a small firm, but we need to maintain discipline.” He puffed out his chest. “Besides, if it weren’t for me giving you the opportunity, would you ever have met such high-level clients? Would you have closed such massive deals? The least you could do is show some gratitude instead of complaining. You’re a bunch of vipers, the lot of you!” “What did you just call us?” I surged forward, ready to give him a piece of my mind, but Jessica grabbed my arm. “Mia, don’t,” she whispered. “If this turns into a fight, we’ll be the ones who lose.” I took a deep, shaky breath. She was right. There were only three of us. We were outnumbered and outgunned. Our defiance had clearly infuriated the boss. He hadn’t expected us to push back. He announced he was taking everyone else out for a lavish seafood dinner, pointedly excluding us. “When the three of you learn how to be obedient employees, you can come and find me,” he sneered, then wrapped his arm around his wife and walked away. Kevin watched them go, his jaw tight. “That’s it. I can’t work here anymore. I’m quitting.” Jessica sighed. “A rival company has been trying to recruit me for ages. Maybe it’s time I gave them a call.” Hearing that these two powerhouses were about to hit the market, I saw an opportunity. On the principle of not letting incredible talent go to a competitor, I put on my most charming smile. “Kevin, Jessica,” I said sweetly. “How would you two feel about coming to work for my family’s company? I can personally guarantee you double the salary and commission.” 3 My family’s company was a publicly traded corporation, much larger than Richard’s little firm. After graduation, my dad had wanted me to start there, but I’d had some misguided notion about making a name for myself without his help. But I saw things clearly now. I was going to inherit the business eventually anyway, so what was the harm in starting a little early? I immediately called my dad and explained the situation with Kevin and Jessica. He was so thrilled he sounded like he was about to cry. “My darling girl!” he exclaimed. “You’ve just brought the company two golden geese!” He greenlit their hiring on the spot, promising to double their salaries and commissions, just as I’d offered. Kevin and Jessica were practical people; they agreed to resign as soon as the retreat was over and start at my family’s company. The whole ordeal had forged a powerful bond between the three of us. Even though we were paying our own way, we had a fantastic time in Miami. For the next two days, since we hadn’t come crawling back to them, Richard and Brenda started posting passive-aggressive nonsense on their social media. [Grateful employees are the best employees. I’m so blessed to have a team like this.] The comments were a cesspool of sycophants. [The company gives us a livelihood. Of course, we should be grateful!] [Exactly! As an example, I’ll be taking only half my commission from now on!] [Some people are just ungrateful snakes! They’ve broken the boss’s heart!] Reading their posts, I could only laugh. Without the three of us, the company would have gone under years ago. There wouldn’t be any commissions for them to virtuously refuse. Their petty digs didn’t bother us in the slightest. In fact, I cheerfully liked all of their posts. The day the retreat ended, the three of us got to the airport early. But when we tried to check in, the airline told us we had no return tickets. I was floored. The company had booked round-trip tickets for everyone. How could our return flights just be… canceled? Just then, Richard and his entourage swept into the terminal. Jessica marched right up to them. “Brenda, did you cancel our tickets?” Brenda smiled sweetly. “I did. So what? You three are so rich you can afford five-star hotels. Surely a little plane ticket is nothing to you. Our company is small, you know. We have to save money where we can.” “That is the lowest thing you could possibly do!” I shot back. “Even if you were going to cancel them, you should have told us! All the flights back to New York are booked. How are we supposed to get home?” “How you get home is not our problem,” Richard sneered. “And let me be clear: if you’re not at your desks tomorrow morning, I’m docking a month’s pay from each of you.” He paused for dramatic effect. “However, since I have such a generous heart, if you agree to my wife’s new sales regulations, I might be willing to give you a few extra days to find a flight.” “Those aren’t regulations, they’re insane!” Jessica snapped, her voice trembling with rage. “Show me one other company in New York that treats its sales team like that! Richard, I’ve been with you since the very beginning. Is this how you treat a loyal employee?” “Don’t you dare pull the ‘loyal employee’ card!” Brenda shrieked. “So what? Is your bond with my husband stronger than mine? This is our company. We make the rules! You’re just a salesperson, a dime a dozen in this city. Who do you think you are?!” Brenda’s words were so vile that Jessica turned pale. Kevin looked like he was about to punch Richard in the face. I held them both back, taking a deep breath. “Boss, does it really have to come to this?” He practically spat on the floor. “What, you think a bunch of worthless employees have the right to challenge me? I gave you every opportunity you ever had! Cross me, and I’ll make sure you never work in this city again!” I sighed and pulled out my phone. “In that case, there’s nothing left to say.” I spoke into the receiver. “You can come in now.” A second later, a deafening roar filled the air. A private jet was descending, circling the airspace above the airport.

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A rich city boy came to our poor mountain town to “experience life.” He was hungry? I handed him a bowl. He was sleepy? I made his bed. He was bored? I found him entertainment. The villagers called me a sycophant, a brown-noser. I didn’t care one bit. Who else paid as well as he did? After saving him from a rattlesnake, I followed him back to the city. His stepmother had evil intentions, but every time danger loomed, I managed to help him turn misfortune into luck. He said, “Ruby, you really are my lucky star.” Looking into his clear, foolish eyes, I sighed. How do I tell him the woman he calls “mom” is actually a viper? 1 The biting cold wind stung my cheeks, and mud splattered freely on my pant legs from the half-melted snow on the dirt road. I hadn’t made much from selling vegetables this morning, and my only good pair of shoes had finally given up the ghost. Through the hole, my big toe poked out of my tattered sock, giving me a friendly wave. Sigh. Mood: Dismal. A convoy of sleek black SUVs approached, and I stepped aside to let them pass. These cars looked way fancier than the ones Uncle Bob’s rich relatives drove. When I got to the village entrance, I saw a tall boy who looked completely out of place. He had a mop of bright blond hair and was frowning impatiently as he directed two men carrying luggage. “Easy! Those are my babies in there.” “Don’t put them on the ground! It’s all mud.” There was too much stuff; four hands clearly weren’t enough for the two men. “Hey, little girl, do you know where the mayor’s house is?” one of them asked me. I pointed to the biggest, fanciest house in the village. “Thanks. Can you give us a hand?” I slung my vegetable basket onto my back and grabbed their remaining bags. Blondie must be the rich kid the mayor talked about, the one coming to the countryside to “experience life.” Experience what? Eating potatoes three times a day for a week? Anyway, the mayor said we had to be hospitable. Apparently, if he’s happy, he might donate money to the village. When we arrived, I put down the bags and turned to leave. Blondie pulled out a few bills and held them out to me. I tilted my head, looking at him in confusion. What for? “Why are you staring? Take the money.” Oh? For me? My jaw dropped. I reached out. His pale, slender fingers contrasted sharply with my red, chapped hands. On the way back, clutching the $500, I practically skipped home. Grandma and I only made a few thousand a year. This money was enough for my tuition next year. As soon as I got home, Grandma started nagging: “Don’t go selling vegetables in this weather. You’ll freeze, and nobody’s buying anyway.” This time, I agreed happily. I had a better way to make money now. 2 The next day, I camped out in front of the mayor’s house at dawn. It wasn’t until the sun was high that Blondie finally emerged, holding something up and cursing: “Damn it, what is this hellhole? Why isn’t there any signal?” My eyes lit up. I sprinted back to our cowshed and dug out an old, unused fishing net. It had a huge hole in it, but he just said he wanted a “net” (network), right? A hole shouldn’t matter. When I got back, he was yelling at the two men who came with him. “No AC, no heating, not even internet. I’m going back. I can’t stay here for a single day.” “Young Master, you can’t go back without Mr. Sterling’s permission.” Blondie barred his teeth in anger, looking like he wanted to hit someone. I ran up and handed him the fishing net: “Here!” He looked down at me, then at the thing in my hand, completely confused: “What?” “The net you wanted.” He snorted, bursting into laughter: “No, little hillbilly. That’s not the kind of ‘net’ I need.” ??? Not this one? My shoulders slumped instantly. Money-making scheme failed! 3 In the afternoon, before I even reached the mayor’s house, I saw Blondie and his crew from a distance. I followed them immediately. After a while, he turned around and asked, “Why are you following us?” I grinned at him. “Weirdo,” he muttered. Quiet as it was, I heard it. Stupid Blondie! I cursed internally. I followed them to the river. It was cold, and the lake had frozen over. Blondie took out a pair of strange shoes and bragged to me: “Little hillbilly, watch and learn. I’m going to show you some figure skating.” I twitched my mouth silently, ran to find a big rock, and heaved it onto the ice. The rock slid for a few meters and stopped in the middle of the lake. A few seconds later, the ice cracked, and the rock fell in with a plop. I tilted my head and asked him: “Still skating?” His face turned beet red. He pointed a finger at the men next to him: “Damn it, this was your idea? Are you trying to kill me?” “Wait till we get back. I’ll have my dad fire you two idiots. Go eat sh*t!” Still angry, he kicked both of them. Once he vented enough, I walked up to him and extended my hand. He high-fived me naturally: “Thanks, or I would have been in trouble.” I froze for a second, then frowned in dissatisfaction: “Pay up!” Embarrassment was written all over his face, but he signaled his companion to give me money. On the way back, he asked: “Little hillbilly, is there anything fun to do around here?” “Nope.” Because I never played. “What about good food?” “Baked potatoes!” “What else?” “Steamed potatoes!” “Nothing else?” “Fried potatoes!” “Hillbillies really have no imagination,” he scoffed. Calling me a hillbilly every other sentence. I was getting annoyed! “Blondie!” Giving nicknames? I can do that too. “Damn, you dare call me that? Hillbilly!” He raised his voice, trying to overpower me. I’ve never lost a shouting match in the village. I rolled up my sleeves and roared with the force of a mountain lion: “Blond~~~~ie~~~~!” The three of them covered their ears in unison. “You… you… barbarian.” Blondie was pissed. He was much taller than me, and I could see his nostrils flaring from anger. I raised my head defiantly, making a face back at him. “Hahaha… did your face cramp?” He clutched his stomach laughing. ??? “I win,” I said proudly. “Tch, I won’t argue with a girl. Little hillbilly, my name is Liam Sterling.” “Ruby Lane.” 4 From that day on, I became Liam’s little shadow. Whatever help he needed, I was there. He was hungry? I prepared a fancy potato feast. He complained: “Is this stuff even edible?” Then proceeded to inhale three bowls, claiming he was only eating it to save my face because I worked hard. He was bored? I took him ice sliding on plastic tubs. He sat in the cramped tub, happy as a 3-year-old, while I ran up and down the hill dragging him, panting like an old ox. But counting the red bills he gave me every night, I giggled in my sleep. Villagers started making snide comments, calling me a sellout. I grinned: “You’re just jealous you didn’t think of it first.” They rolled their eyes and walked away. Today, the mayor told me Liam went hunting in the mountains with Old Man Liu. Someone stealing my job? Unacceptable! I rushed up the mountain. Luckily, few people went up in this season, so the footprints in the snow were easy to track. Suddenly, I heard terrified screaming nearby. I ran towards the sound and saw Liam sitting on the ground. A meter away from him, a slender green creature stood out against the snow. The people with him were useless, backing away to save their own skins. The snake had raised its head, ready to strike. Liam was my cash cow; he couldn’t get hurt. Without thinking, I raised the walking stick I brought, charged forward, and swung it at the snake’s head. Bam! Thanking the aim I practiced hitting rats at home. Afraid it would strike back, I kept swinging. Whack! Whack! Whack! I didn’t stop until my arms were sore. Uh! The snake was basically paste now. I poked the head with the stick. A bamboo viper. Deadly poisonous! Liam was pale as a sheet, staring blankly. “Such a waste. It’s ruined. Could have made snake soup.” Thinking of the taste, I licked my lips. “Eat? Just… let’s go down.” Liam dragged me away, as if afraid I’d actually take it home to stew. I looked back at the snake carcass. Weird! Shouldn’t snakes be hibernating in this weather? Down the mountain, I extended my hand as usual. Liam poked my forehead, exasperated: “Why are you so money-obsessed? My life is worth more than a few bucks. You saved me once, I owe you one big favor. Go home and think about what you want.”

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I’ve been the Lunch Lady at St. Jude’s Academy, a private high school for the ultra-wealthy, for thirteen years. My cooking is impeccable. Even these picky heirs and heiresses are addicted to my food. Although my family isn’t rich, my husband is hardworking and honest, and my daughter is smart and beautiful. I always thought I was happy. Until my elementary school daughter offended a group of mean girls over a trivial matter and was pushed off a roof. When my honest husband went to the school to demand justice, they had his legs broken and threw him out like trash. That afternoon, I sat behind the serving counter, unable to stop my tears. Suddenly, a hand gently tapped my shoulder. “Auntie Liu, what’s good for lunch today?” I wiped my face in a panic. Looking up, I saw the students who were usually joking around now wearing expressions of deadly seriousness. “Auntie, who bullied you? Why are you crying?” 1 The morning started with heavy snow falling outside the window. I took out the fresh ingredients prepared the night before, chopping them finely. I mixed the seasoned pork, stirring it in one direction until it was perfect. Seasoning, a splash of hot oil—the aroma exploded instantly. Next to me, the large pot of lamb soup had turned milky white, bubbling away. I fished out the cooked lamb, sliced it thin, and started stewing a huge pot of beef curry before rolling out dough for dumplings. As soon as the lunch bell rang, students swarmed in. Leo, the school’s biggest troublemaker, was the first to rush the window. “Auntie Liu! I’m starving. What’s on the menu?” I smiled. “It’s the Winter Solstice today. I made four kinds of dumplings. If you don’t want dumplings, there’s lamb soup or beef curry with rice!” Behind him, Asher, who grew up with Leo, strolled in. “So many options? Aren’t you tired, Auntie?” “By the way, my dad said your raise is approved for next year. It’s a done deal.” “Also, for the summer Europe trip, the school will cover the costs for you and your daughter to come along. We can hang out.” Asher is the Chairman’s son. He looks cold, but he’s the most reliable. If he says it, it’s happening. I grinned from ear to ear and served him a huge bowl of lamb soup, the meat piled high like a mountain. Leo protested immediately. “Auntie Liu, that’s favoritism! Why does he get more meat?” “There’s plenty for everyone! Come back for seconds if you’re still hungry!” I stepped aside, pointing to the results of my morning’s work. “Unlimited refills!” Leo almost jumped with joy. “Yes! Auntie Liu, I love you!” 2 I came from a poor mountain village with two younger brothers. At seven, I was standing on a stool to cook for the whole family. After middle school, my dad smoked his pipe and said there was no money for me to continue studying. The next day, I tore up my high school acceptance letter, grabbed a worn-out bag, and took a train north. I was fifteen. I worked on assembly lines until I stumbled into a kitchen job at a big hotel. The head chef saw my hard work and taught me real skills. I saved money, went to night school, and got my culinary certification. At twenty-one, I was hired by this elite private high school. In the blink of an eye, I’ve been cooking here for thirteen years. After cleaning up at 3 PM, I went to pick up my daughter, Mia. Mia is ten, a fourth-grader at a nearby public school. Seeing me, she handed over a certificate like it was treasure. “Mom! I won first place in the city essay contest! The teacher said I’m going to the nationals next month!” My hands shook with excitement. I hugged her tight. “Mia, you’re amazing!” “Tell Mom what you want to eat. Dad will cook a feast tonight!” Mia’s ponytail swung as she skipped forward, holding my hand. Suddenly, I felt a chill on my back, like someone was watching us. I turned around. Two girls about Mia’s age stood at the school gate, staring at us with dark expressions. “Who are they?” I asked. Mia looked over, her face falling. “We used to be friends.” “Last exam, she wanted me to pass her notes. I refused, so she cut me off.” “Mom, did I do something wrong?” I shook my head, smoothing her hair. “No, Mia did the right thing. You don’t need friends like that.” At 6 PM, my husband, Tom, came home. He held a fancy cake box. “For Mia’s award.” “And for our 12th anniversary.” I blushed. “We’re an old couple, why spend money on this…” Tom scratched his head, face red. “The clerk said anniversaries need rituals. You rest, I’ll cook.” He’s a man of few words, just hard work. Soon, a table of our favorite dishes was ready. Mia closed her eyes to make a wish. “I wish for our family to be together forever, healthy and rich!” 3 Since the school is far, I usually stay in the staff dorms and only go home on weekends. On Monday, Tom gave me a bag of pastries from his bakery. “Last time some punks caused trouble at the shop, a few of your students helped out and bought a lot. These are for them.” After the lunch rush, I gave the pastries to a few girls I was close with. Leo saw it and wailed. “Auntie Liu! Discrimination! Why only for the girls?” A girl rolled her eyes. “Got a problem with that?” “No, no,” Leo grinned. “I just wanted Auntie Liu’s number so I can buy some for my sister.” “Tch, just say you want to eat. Always using your sister as a shield.” Listening to their banter, my heart felt warm. 4 Actually, when I first started, I didn’t know the students well. In my third year, a girl caught my attention. She hovered by the window every day, eventually ordering the cheapest vegetable dish. It hurt to watch. This school has scholarship kids too. So, whenever I served her, I hid braised pork or fish under the rice. We had a silent understanding. But a few days later, she brought the tray back, face cold. “Change this. I don’t eat fish. I didn’t order this. Why did you decide for me?” I noticed the expensive bracelet on her wrist. I realized my mistake, blushing. “Sorry… Auntie will get you a new one.” I just wanted the kids to eat well. Full stomachs study better. I served her again. As she turned to leave, she saw me give an extra scoop of meat to a skinny boy behind her. She paused. Later, she came back to apologize. “Sorry for my attitude.” I was confused. “I thought… you recognized me as the Chairman’s daughter and were trying to suck up to me.” Her name is Chloe, Asher’s older sister. She told me she usually ate at home but came to the cafeteria after fighting with her parents. We became close. Whenever I made a new dish, I asked Chloe to taste it. “Auntie, these wings are amazing. What’s in them?” “Yogurt marinade.” “That’s French style! You know that?” I laughed shyly. “I just read cookbooks.” “Seriously, your skills are wasted here. You should open a private kitchen.” I’ve thought about it, but… “I don’t know,” I said. “I feel grounded here.” Watching these vibrant kids, I feel like I’m living out the high school dream I never had. Thirteen years passed like this. Just after lunch service, Mia’s homeroom teacher called. “Mia’s mom, come to school immediately. Something happened.” My heart sank. “What happened?” “A fight. It’s complicated. We need a parent meeting.” Leo, who hadn’t left, asked, “Auntie Liu, what’s wrong? You look pale.” I untied my apron, rushing out. “Nothing. Just going to Mia’s school.” “Let me know if you need anything!”

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On the afternoon of New Year’s Eve, an order for a bouquet of roses popped up at my best friend’s flower shop. I stared at the WeChat profile of the customer on the shop’s iPad, verifying it three times. There was no mistake. It was my husband, Mark, who was supposedly on a business trip in Chicago. But the recipient wasn’t me. I video-called him. It rang for a long time before he picked up. Before I could question him, my best friend, Chloe, squeezed into the frame, smiling brightly. “You’re not even back for New Year’s? What gift are you buying Sarah to make up for it?” The room on his end was pitch black. Mark had the duvet pulled over his head, eyes squinting, a forced smile twitching at the corner of his mouth. “Honey, I’m so sorry. I’ll make it up to you when I get back.” “I pulled an all-nighter working yesterday. I’m exhausted. Let me sleep a bit more.” His acting calmed me down instantly. I offered a few perfunctory words and hung up. I picked up the wrapped bouquet and walked out the door. “I’m delivering this one myself.” 1 The delivery address wasn’t far, a luxury condo complex that opened last year. The security guard stopped me at the gate. “No deliveries allowed inside.” I used the shop’s phone to dial the customer, pitching my voice higher. Mark’s voice came through the speaker. “This is Mark Sterling, Unit 1603, Building 5. Let her in.” The guard nodded, logged my info, and buzzed me through. The elevator dinged. I took a deep breath. “I’ll go in alone,” I told Chloe. She nodded and slipped into the stairwell. “Yell if you need me.” I started recording on my phone and rang the doorbell. Mark’s voice echoed from inside. “Babe, can you get that?” Footsteps approached. The door opened. The woman froze. “Lily’s mom?” I froze too. She was Jessica, my daughter Lily’s former art teacher. She had quit six months ago because she was pregnant. Was she carrying my husband’s child? She looked at the flowers in my hands, her gaze sweeping over me. She lowered her head, smiling with a mix of shyness and provocation. “Lily’s mom, are you delivering for DoorDash now?” She was wearing a loose silk nightgown, her belly protruding significantly. I gripped the bouquet so hard the paper crinkled. She reached out, feigning kindness. “Thank you. It’s freezing out there. You must be cold. Want to come in for a bit?” “Sure. Thanks.” She paused, not expecting me to agree so easily. Her eyes darted nervously toward the kitchen, but she smiled and opened the shoe cabinet to get me slippers. The cabinet was full of men’s shoes. One pair was the limited edition Nikes I bought Mark last month. He was wearing them when he left for his “business trip.” A cartoon portrait of the two of them sat on the console table. Jessica sniffed the flowers. “My husband is so romantic. He never forgets a surprise on holidays.” I sneered. “Does he send them on April Fools’, too?” Her mouth hung open slightly. She composed herself and said, “Life after divorce must be hard. A wealthy wife reducing herself to delivery work.” I looked around the apartment. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a panoramic view of the lake. The sunset poured in, breathtakingly beautiful. But all I felt was a chilling desolation. Pain pricked every inch of my skin. “Yeah, not everyone gets lucky like you, Ms. Jessica. Hooking up with CEO Sterling really elevated your lifestyle.” Her secret exposed, she became smug. “If it wasn’t for Lily, Mark would have divorced you ages ago. But my child is more important. The moment he heard I was pregnant, he filed for divorce immediately.” “Divorce?” “Stop pretending. Mark told me everything. He only goes home once a month to put on a show for Lily. Since you’re here, be smart. Don’t use this as an excuse to cling to my husband.” “We’re both women. I know your little tricks.” She lifted her chin, confident. At that moment, Mark walked out of the kitchen carrying a pot of chicken soup. He placed it carefully on the dining table and started ladling it into a bowl. He didn’t see me. Jessica walked over and linked her arm through his, her voice dripping with honey. “Hubby, we have a guest.” Mark turned around. His hand shook, and the bowl smashed onto the floor, shattering into pieces. “What are you doing here?!” Jessica sighed with fake pity. “Lily’s mom is having a tough time. She’s delivering flowers now.” Mark glanced at the flowers, realizing the voice on the phone had been mine. He never expected I would actually show up. He stepped forward nervously, reaching for me. “Sarah, listen to me, this is…” Before he could finish, Jessica pulled him back, staking her claim. “You guys are divorced, what is there to explain?” “Lily’s mom, Mark will pay the child support. Don’t be shameless and keep pestering him.” I stared into Mark’s eyes. “It is time for a divorce.” 2 Mark shook off Jessica’s hand and grabbed mine, pulling me toward the door. “Let’s talk outside. Jessica is in her third trimester; don’t scare her.” Jessica suddenly “slipped” on a ceramic shard. She fell to the ground, grabbing Mark’s pant leg. “Hubby! My stomach!” Mark turned pale. He scooped her up frantically. “Jess, don’t be scared. I’m taking you to the hospital.” He shoved past me, his elbow slamming hard into my lower back. Sharp pain shot through my spine. “Ah!” Mark instinctively looked back. “Sarah…” Jessica let out a whimper, cutting him off. Seeing her in pain, he turned and rushed out the door. I stumbled out. Chloe ran over to support me. “Are you okay?” “I’m fine.” Chloe held up her phone. “I suspect he’s transferring assets. I already texted my brother to investigate.” Chloe’s brother, David, was a top divorce attorney. I nodded thanks and forwarded her the video I just recorded. “Her name is Jessica Miller. Lily’s old art teacher. Tell David to draft the divorce papers.” “Okay. I’m driving you home.” Chloe insisted I wasn’t fit to drive. She took me home and picked up Lily to stay at her place for a few days. David worked fast. By the time I got home, he had sent a file. The apartment and car under Jessica’s name were bought by Mark. Transfers totaling nearly ten million dollars. A year ago, Mark told me the branch office had issues and he needed to travel often. Turns out he was building a love nest. Every “business trip” was spent with Jessica. I immediately called the company’s CFO. “Mr. Jones, send me the ledgers for the main company and all branches for the last few years.” “Mrs. Sterling, those are confidential. You don’t have authorization.” “I am a shareholder!” Silence on the other end. “I will submit a request to Mr. Sterling. Once he signs off, I will send them to you.” Good. Very good. Since I got pregnant with Lily, I stopped asking about the company. I spent my days shopping, going to spas, and raising my child. Everyone thought I married well. Even Mark probably forgot: I am the majority shareholder. I have the right to fire him at any time. I started cleaning house. I opened the closet, threw Mark’s suits onto the floor, and stomped on them. I tore them apart like a madwoman, venting my rage. At the bottom of the closet, I found an old storage box. It contained everything Mark had given me during our four years of college. A tulip night light, a handmade backpack, hair clips he designed, a jar of paper stars. His family was poor back then. He couldn’t afford expensive gifts, so he made them by hand. I hugged the box and cried until dawn. The next morning, my mother-in-law, Martha, and sister-in-law, Emily, barged in. Seeing the mess, they started screaming. “Sarah! Are you crazy? You destroyed all this expensive stuff? Do you know how hard my son works? How did he marry such a wasteful woman? Couldn’t give us a grandson, and now this!” She saw me and raised her hand to slap me. “Bitch! You almost hurt my grandson!” “You birthed a useless girl and dare to show off in front of Jessica? Be smart, divorce my son, and get out of the Sterling family.” Emily was in the kitchen, sweeping bird’s nest, ginseng, and expensive supplements into a bag. “Wasted on her. Mom, let’s take these to Jessica. She needs them.” Martha rushed to the kitchen, helping her pack. “Right! Jessica is the hero of our family. She needs nourishment.” When I gave birth to Lily, Martha took one look, saw it was a girl, and never came back. I didn’t care about her attitude. What shocked me was—Jessica gave birth? “Where is Mark?” Martha spat on the floor. “With my grandson, obviously. I’m warning you, if anything happens to him, I’ll kill you!” 3 Jessica had a boy. The whole family knew about the affair and the baby. They were all hiding it from me. Mark didn’t come home until the afternoon. His eyes were red with fatigue, his face impatient. “My mom just took some stuff from the house, and you called the police? I bought those things with my money. What’s wrong with her taking them?” “Save it for the police station.” The moment they left, I reported a burglary. I had surveillance footage of them clearing out the kitchen. The value was over a thousand dollars—enough for a criminal case. The police arrested them at the hospital. Mark was left alone to care for the baby and Jessica. He was overwhelmed. Only after hiring a nanny did he have time to come back and confront me. I looked at him and sneered. “Your money?” He laughed, a mocking sound. “If not mine, is it yours? If I hadn’t propped up the company all these years, it would have gone bankrupt ages ago. I’ve been supporting you, letting you live like a queen for a decade.” “This company is huge. It needs an heir. Just be a good Mrs. Sterling. No one can threaten your position.” I pointed to the family portrait on the wall. “Isn’t Lily your heir?” “What use is a girl? She’ll just marry out and the assets will fall into someone else’s hands.” My heart went cold. Fall into someone else’s hands? “Mark, is that why you approached me in college?” Mark looked down, grabbing my hand, softening his tone. “Sarah, I love you.” I threw the printed divorce agreement at his chest. “Sign it.” He glanced at it, threw it on the floor, and laughed coldly. “Sarah, look around. Which wealthy man doesn’t have a mistress or two? After all these years, I make one mistake, and you want a divorce?” “Stop making a scene. My mom wanted a grandson, and you couldn’t have a second child. I had no choice. When the boy is older, I’ll bring him here for you to raise.” He spoke as if discussing the weather. I looked at him in disbelief and slapped him twice, backhand and forehand. “Scumbag!” He wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth. “Honey, I know you’re angry. But how will you live without me? Are you really going to deliver food?” “You forget. The company belongs to my family.” Mark chuckled. “Don’t be naive. It’s been ten years. The people at the company don’t listen to you anymore.” “Let’s just live our lives. I promise, no one will take your title as Mrs. Sterling. I won’t shortchange Lily.” “But if I don’t agree, you won’t get custody. Can you bear to leave her? To let her grow up in a broken home? Think about it for Lily.” It was laughable. He didn’t think of Lily when he cheated, but now he used her to morally blackmail me. When my father died, he gifted Mark 10% of the shares, hoping he would treat me well. Now, those shares were a weapon against me. Before we married, I hid my identity. After graduation, we joined the company together. Just as we were competing for an executive role, I found out I was pregnant. My father rushed the wedding and told me to stay home and rest. Soon after, my father died of a sudden heart attack. I fell into depression and miscarried. I was hospitalized with severe clinical depression. Mark took care of me while running the company. He said he would guard my father’s empire for me. I believed him. I rallied the other shareholders to support him as Chairman. I had no energy to manage the business then. I became the envied Mrs. Sterling and eventually gave birth to Lily. Because I lost a child before, Lily was my world. Mark knew this. That’s why he used her. “Mark, the naive one is you, not me.” 4 A few days later, acting as a shareholder, I issued a notice removing Mark from all positions and announcing my return to manage all company affairs. The email hit every employee’s inbox. I put on a business suit I hadn’t worn in years and walked into the building. The receptionist stopped me. “Miss, do you have an appointment?” I hadn’t been to the office in five years. Many employees didn’t recognize me. “I am Sarah Vance. I’m here to work.” “Sarah Vance?” She muttered the name, then gasped, remembering the morning email. “You’re the new Chairman!” She respectfully opened the gate. The elevator reached the 26th floor. The doors opened to reveal Mark standing with the other shareholders, waiting for me. His eyes crinkled with a smile that said I was in over my head. Uncle Wang spoke first. He had co-founded the company with my father and watched me grow up. Now, he postured like an elder. “Sarah, Mark told us everything. You’re being ridiculous! A lover’s spat shouldn’t be brought to the office. The Chairman position isn’t a toy for your tantrums!” Employees watching from the sidelines snickered. “The CEO’s wife probably can’t even read a spreadsheet.” “Should stay home with the kid. Why come here to cause trouble?” “Classic housewife. Scared her husband will run off, so she comes to mark her territory.” Other shareholders chimed in. “Mrs. Sterling, running a corporation is no joke. Go home.” “Sarah, Glory Corp has grown under Mark. Don’t ruin it.” “The company isn’t just yours. What right do you have to make these decisions?” Mark smiled confidently, playing the peacemaker. “It’s my fault. I made Sarah angry, causing this mess. I apologize on her behalf.” “Oh, Mr. Sterling, you’re too kind. Since it’s a family matter, we won’t interfere.” “Sarah, don’t make this kind of joke again!” The group laughed and turned to leave. Mark leaned in and whispered in my ear. “See? No one stands with you.” Many were my father’s old loyalists. Now, they all backed Mark. I looked around, my heart turning to ice. I spoke coldly. “A joke? I am the majority shareholder. I demand Mark Sterling be removed immediately.” The shareholders froze, looking at Mark. Mark didn’t get angry. “Since everyone is here, let’s hold a shareholders’ meeting and vote for the Chairman.” “Assistant Sun, take everyone to the conference room. Call Director Lee.” We walked into the conference room. Mark sat naturally at the head of the table. He pulled out a shareholding agreement. He actually owned 20% of the shares! “I’ve acquired the scattered shares. I hold 20%. Sarah holds 35%. Who do you support?” Uncle Wang and the others voted for Mark. Mark leaned back, looking down at me arrogantly. “That’s 40% for me. You only have 35%. Give up.” I looked at the door, waiting for the other shareholder. Mark smirked. Half an hour later, Director Lee arrived slowly. He looked at me. “Sarah, you shouldn’t do this.” My eyes reddened. “Uncle Lee, Mark betrayed me.” Uncle Lee pulled me aside to lecture me. “Even if Mark is wrong, you shouldn’t air dirty laundry in public. Men need to save face. Go home and solve this.” “I support Mark.” I didn’t expect my own uncle to side with him. Mark stood up to thank everyone. “Sarah, I have 46% support. What do you have to say?” “Mr. Sterling forgets,” I said clearly. “There is still a holder of 19% who hasn’t voted.”

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Chapter 1 After winning the bidding war for Liam Sterling at the exclusive charity auction, he set three rules for me. Give him a black card with no limit. Clean up all his messes, no questions asked. And never pry into his private life. Only by agreeing to these three points would he leave with me. Everyone thought he was delusional. No one would agree to such terms for a bankrupt playboy. But I just nodded. “Take good care of your face.” Over the next three years, I spent over a hundred million dollars on him. Everyone laughed at me for losing my mind over love. But I continued to do as I pleased. The day my father died, Liam crashed his racing car. Suppressing my grief, I rushed to handle the aftermath. But at the door of the VIP lounge, I overheard Liam talking with his friends. “Liam, you’ve got Elena trained like a dog. Marriage is going to be bliss, huh?” “Yeah, once her old man kicks the bucket, all that family money will be yours after the wedding.” Laughter erupted. Liam’s cold voice cut through the noise. “Her? She’s not worthy of marrying me.” I pushed the door open. Under the shocked gazes of everyone, I walked calmly up to Liam. Ignoring his slightly unnatural expression, I carefully wiped the dust from his forehead and sighed in relief. “Good, the face is fine.” … Liam turned his face away impatiently. “It wasn’t a big deal. Elena, you’re annoying.” Seeing the awkward atmosphere, his friends tried to smooth things over, hinting to see if I had heard their conversation. Liam looked at me with a hint of nervousness. Facing that face that looked a bit apprehensive, I couldn’t bring myself to be cruel. I shook my head. Just as I relaxed, a commotion came from the entrance. It was Liam’s childhood sweetheart. He stood up anxiously, his tone gentle in a way he never used with me. “Why are you here? I said it was nothing, you didn’t need to come out in this rain.” Bella clutched an umbrella, tears welling up as soon as she saw Liam’s injuries. “I was worried about you, and the thunder is so loud, I was scared…” Liam wiped her tears tenderly. “It’s late. I’ll take you home and tuck you in.” With that, they gathered their things and left. Facing the awkward expressions of the others, I watched silently the entire time. Just as he demanded when I “bought” him. Never pry into his private life. Before leaving, Liam spoke to me matter-of-factly: “My car is wrecked. I’ll take yours. Find your own way home.” He put his jacket over Bella and led her away, not caring at all how I would manage in the pouring rain alone. “Elena, Liam he…” one friend stammered. “No need to explain,” I interrupted. In Liam’s heart, I would never compare to Bella. His rare patience and gentleness were all poured out on her. I had long realized that no matter how much this face looked like him, it wasn’t him. But to see this face I missed day and night, I endured it all willingly. I called my driver to pick me up and went to handle my father’s funeral arrangements. It was past midnight when I got home. The lights in the living room were on, which surprised me. Usually, he would be asleep by now. Seeing my exhaustion, Liam frowned. “Why are you back so late?” I said faintly, “Something came up.” He scoffed, disbelieving. “Is this necessary? I just walked Bella home. She’s a little girl, worried about me in the storm, scared of thunder. What’s wrong with me taking her home?” He didn’t think for a second that I had also dropped everything to rush to him in the middle of the night. I rubbed my temples, not wanting to argue. Seeing this, Liam stepped forward and pinched my chin. He kissed me, as if bestowing a gift. I turned my head to dodge. His face darkened. “That’s enough. What’s the attitude for?” “My dad died. I’m not in the mood.” Liam froze. Ignoring him, I turned and went into the bedroom. Sometime later, Liam lay beside me, smelling of shower gel. He gently took my hand. “I didn’t know.” I didn’t respond. Liam continued on his own. “By the way, Bella’s birthday is coming up. She saw an emerald diamond necklace in a magazine a few days ago and loved it.” “I asked around, it’s an antique, not for sale anymore.” “I remember you have one in your jewelry box. You don’t wear it anyway. Why not give it to Bella to make her happy?” My headache worsened. My voice was cold. “That was my mother’s dowry. I won’t give it.” His hand holding mine stiffened. This was the first time I refused him. He gritted his teeth, let go of me, got dressed, and slammed the door as he left. I ignored it, rolled over, and fell into a deep sleep. 2 I drove to my father’s funeral. As soon as I got in the car, I saw a pair of lace panties stained with white fluid on the passenger seat. This was the car Liam drove Bella home in. Pressed for time, I switched cars and went to the funeral home. Guests arrived one by one. Liam finally showed up late with Bella. “Bella wasn’t feeling well this morning, so we’re late.” I lowered my eyes. “Take a seat.” It seemed a bit warm inside, so Bella took off her trench coat. Instantly, she became the center of attention. She was wearing a bright red dress. Noticing the stares, Bella shrank behind Liam. She trembled, “What’s wrong? Why is everyone looking at me?” She gripped Liam’s sleeve, causing him to protectively pull her into his arms and whisper comforts. My temper finally snapped. “Either take that off or get out.” My eyes were frosty. “Wearing red to my father’s funeral. Ms. Bella has quite the upbringing.” Everyone watched in silence. Bella looked as if she had suffered a grave injustice, biting her lip with red eyes. “I’ll leave then!” She turned and ran. Liam glared at me darkly, grabbed Bella’s coat, and chased after her. I closed my eyes tightly and took a few deep breaths. “I apologize. Let’s continue.” Everyone snapped out of it and pretended nothing happened. I sat down, dejected. I could imagine the gossip. My nose stung. If only he were here. After the funeral, Liam returned. His clothes were messier than when he left. He frowned, tone angry. “Just for something so small, did you have to embarrass Bella in front of everyone?” “She’s just a girl, she doesn’t know these customs. Why make it hard for her?” “Is this because I tucked her in that night? It’s been so long, are you serious?” Liam’s questioning made me laugh in anger. Usually, I would pretend not to notice, but today I wasn’t going to indulge him. “It’s my father’s funeral. Who is causing trouble?” I asked sarcastically. He paused, avoiding my gaze. A moment later, he offered a compromise. “Fine, I’ll talk to her later. It’s not your place to lecture her.” “Bella fell when she ran out. You own a hospital, have them prepare the best VIP suite.” “Arrange a full checkup for her, and we’ll consider this matter closed.” I refused without thinking. “Impossible.” I would clean up his messes, but I wouldn’t agree to this. “You are becoming more and more unreasonable.” Liam ripped off his tie, threw it on the floor, and stormed off. When I got home that night, I saw Bella sitting in my seat at the dining table. In front of her was the tonic soup my housekeeper prepared for me. Seeing me, Bella’s voice was sweet. “Sister Elena, you’re back? Liam said Mrs. Wang’s soup is the most nourishing, perfect for my health.” “Come have a bowl.” I glanced at her and walked past without a word. Liam strode over and put his arm around my shoulder. His tone was unusually gentle. “I thought about it. If you don’t want her in the hospital, fine. We have a family doctor, Bella can stay here.” “She likes your sunny master bedroom. You move out for her. It’ll be good for her recovery.” Liam was sure I wouldn’t refuse him again. After all, for years, whatever he wanted, he got. Even limited edition supercars worth millions, I would fill the garage with them without blinking. 3 Before I could answer, Liam pulled me to the table. He pushed a plate of bamboo shoot salad toward me. “Your favorite from that place in North City. I bought it for you. Eat up.” I stared at the dish. Actually, I didn’t like it. He liked it. After his accident, this dish became my “favorite.” I picked up my chopsticks and ate a bite. It tasted like the past. Seeing me eat, Liam’s expression relaxed. A flash of jealousy crossed Bella’s eyes. She put a piece of pig heart in my bowl. Then she panicked, “Sorry Sister Elena, I forgot your father died of a heart attack…” “I’m always so clumsy. Don’t be mad.” She looked at Liam for help. Liam rubbed Bella’s head, comforting her dotingly. “It’s okay, I’m here.” He looked at me, tone cool. “Bella is young, don’t hold it against her.” With that, he rolled up his sleeves and expertly peeled shrimp for her. Revealing a hair tie on his wrist that belonged to Bella. Seeing their intimacy, I lost my appetite. I put down my chopsticks. Seeing I was done, Liam spoke again. “Bella’s lease is up. Give her an apartment to tide her over.” “Your penthouse in the city center is nice, well-decorated. It’ll be easier for her to find a job.” The apartment Liam mentioned was the marital home I had prepared before. The decor was designed by him personally, according to my taste. I found it laughable. My lack of boundaries had spoiled him. He thought I would yield again and again. But when it involved him, I couldn’t let it go. “Liam, you want me to support your mistress too?” I asked calmly. Bella stood up, looking humiliated. “Sister Elena, I know you mind my relationship with Liam, but we are innocent.” She looked at Liam, teary-eyed. “I’m disturbing you guys. Sorry Liam, I’ll go.” Liam grabbed her anxiously, his voice cold toward me. “Apologize to Bella.” I sneered. “Did I say something wrong?” “Or was that pair of panties in my car not hers?” Bella breathed heavily, face flushed. She shook her head. “You really misunderstood. I had cramps that day, Liam just helped me with his hands.” “We grew up together, it’s nothing.” Liam pulled her into his embrace, patting her back. “Don’t explain. She’s just paranoid all day.” He looked at me coldly. “Do you think this will make me look at you more?” “There’s a limit to being unreasonable. I’ll spend more time with you later, okay?” “Bella can’t handle grievances.” “If you keep this up, I’m moving out with Bella.” I heard his threat. Usually, if Liam said this, I would submit immediately. Then fulfill his demands to satisfy him. Only then would he magnanimously forgive me. But my attention was entirely on my phone, which just buzzed. A text message. From a number I knew by heart but thought would never contact me again. 【Elena, wait for me.】 Four simple words left me frozen, clutching my phone. 4 Was it a prank, or did he really come back? The thought made my eyes wet. The phone was snatched away. It was Liam. “Why are you crying?” He frowned, looking suspiciously at the screen. But it was already locked. He tried the password a few times, all wrong. Liam threw the phone on the table in frustration and asked, “Did you hear what I said?” My mind was chaos. I didn’t want to talk. I grabbed my phone and stood up. “I think we both need to calm down.” Seeing me leave, Liam was at a loss. This was the first time I walked away first. Usually, no matter how toxic he was, I was the one apologizing. Maybe I was just really angry this time. I’d be fine in a few days. Liam thought. Since that night, I hadn’t been home or messaged Liam for days. He started getting restless. His friends noticed his anxiety and advised him. “Oh, Liam, what are you afraid of? We all see how much Elena loves you.” “Women, just let her cool off. She’ll come crawling back to lick your boots.” Laughter followed. Bella nodded, pouring wine for Liam. “Yeah Liam, it’s probably nothing big. Sister Elena is just throwing a tantrum waiting for you to coax her.” “Besides, her dad died, you’re the closest person to her. How could she really break up with you?” Liam recalled the wallpaper he saw on my phone that day. Although blurry, he could tell it was him. Probably a candid shot I took. After all, I loved him to the bone. How could I give up so easily? Liam nodded, anxiety fading. “True. Elena is taking over as CEO in a few days. I’ll go to her banquet, and she’ll be fine.” At the banquet, I was socializing with partners. Since that day, no matter how many messages I sent to that number, there was no reply. I could only wait patiently. If it was really him, he would come to me. I just had to wait. Sipping champagne, I saw Liam enter with Bella. My face changed. The dress Bella wore was the one I wore for my debutante ball. It was custom-made by a top designer abroad, commissioned by him. It took six months to make. I walked over quickly, eyes angry. “Who let you wear that?! Take it off!” Bella was startled by my gaze. Thinking Liam was beside her, she found courage. “What are you doing?” I didn’t care, pulling at the dress. Liam, seeing me frantic, got angry and pulled me away forcefully. Thrown off balance, my lower back hit the edge of a long table. The champagne tower on it crashed to the floor. The noise attracted everyone’s attention. My CEO succession banquet turned into a farce. Liam shielded Bella, his tone impatient. “Elena, when will you stop? I’m here, aren’t I?” “This dress color doesn’t suit you anymore. It’s perfect for a young girl like Bella.” “You have so many clothes, is it worth embarrassing her in public over this?” Seeing me covered in wine, my calf cut by glass. A hint of pity appeared in Liam’s eyes. He moved to help me up. “Stop throwing tantrums. I’ll buy you a new one later, okay?” But I had no reaction to the pain or his words. I just stared blankly at the familiar figure behind him. All the blood in my body seemed to freeze in an instant. Liam followed my gaze. Seeing the man’s face, his pupils dilated. It was a tall, handsome man. Every gesture exuded an ethereal elegance. “What are you doing to my fiancée?” The man asked coldly. Liam instinctively moved to block my view. He questioned me angrily. “What fiancée?! Elena, who is he!”

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On the night I was kicked out of my marriage with nothing, I wandered the streets alone. By chance, I saw a small ad taped to a lamppost: 【Looking for a stepmother for my child. No age or appearance requirements. Must be patient with children. Room and board included.】 The “room and board included” part caught my eye. That night, I dragged my suitcase to the address. And walked into the home of the richest man in the city. Later, my ex-husband asked me condescendingly: “Ava, do you realize your mistake now?” My four-year-old tyrant of a stepson roared: “What mistake?! My mom is the most right person in the world!!!” The billionaire put his arm around my shoulder: “My wife, even when she’s wrong, she’s right.” 1 I never expected the person posting flyers on lampposts to be the city’s richest man. I stood at the gate of the mansion. Beside me was a butler with a haughty demeanor. “Our employer is looking for a stepmother for his child, not a wife for himself. Remember that.” “Mr. Sterling is a catch. Don’t get any ideas.” I lowered my head slightly, eyes straight ahead. I sighed deeply. This job was perfect for me. Basically, they were hiring a high-end nanny for the kid, right? I just got divorced this morning. I had zero interest in remarrying right now. But taking care of a child and having a roof over my head meant I didn’t have to pay rent. For someone as broke as I was, this was a lifesaver. I nodded respectfully. “I understand. I absolutely won’t get any ideas.” The butler nodded and led me into the dining room. At a massive long table, a father and son were engaged in a tug-of-war. The brooding man held a bowl and spoon, looking unhappy. The melancholy boy bit his lip, refusing to open his mouth, not backing down. Time seemed to stand still. After a long while, the man sighed, defeated. He put down the bowl in frustration. His well-defined hand pinched the bridge of his nose. He lowered his voice: “Just one bite. A tiny bite, please?” The butler stepped forward: “Sir, another applicant is here. This one looks well-behaved.” The man turned slowly. He wore simple black trousers and a white shirt, the top button undone, hinting at his collarbone. His sleeves were rolled up, revealing pale, strong forearms. I had seen this face on financial news. Ethan Sterling. Too handsome to forget. I was secretly worried about being scammed earlier. Seeing his face now, I relaxed completely. A man of his status had no reason to scam a destitute divorcee like me. His deep gaze swept over me lightly. His voice was tinged with exhaustion. “What’s your name?” I guessed he had rushed home after a long day of work, not even changing clothes, just to feed his child. Only to suffer a heavy blow. Feeding his kid was probably harder than signing a billion-dollar deal. “Ava,” I said. He nodded imperceptibly and handed me the bowl: “You try.” After speaking, he moved to the sofa, crossing his arms to watch me with interest. This must be the interview. I had to perform well. If I could stay, at least I wouldn’t have to sleep under a bridge tonight. I took the bowl, put on what I thought was a kind smile, and walked toward the boy. But before I took two steps, the boy whoosh dove under the table. Only a pair of big, dark eyes like grapes peeked out. He shouted angrily at Ethan: “No! Make her leave! I don’t want her to feed me! They are all bad women!” It seemed before me, the boy had encountered unknown numbers of “stepmothers.” I had to do even better. I glanced around and saw Ultraman figures everywhere. An idea struck. I grabbed a few Ultramen and placed them near the boy under the table. I said with a smile: “Don’t worry, I’m not feeding you. I’m feeding Tiga and Seven. You don’t need to worry.” With that, I pretended to feed the figures: “Eat up. Only by being full can you save the world.” “Kids who don’t eat have skinny arms and legs. They can’t even protect themselves, how can they protect humanity?” “Oh, you want veggies? Right, right, spinach gives you strength.” The boy lay there pitifully, feeling forgotten. He smacked his lips a few times, but I pretended not to see. Until his nose turned red from anxiety and he was about to cry, I acted like I just discovered him: “Oh! Why is there a baby Ultraman here? Tiga, can I give your leftovers to him? He needs to eat to be strong like you.” Tiga (me): “Yes.” I smiled: “Okay, since Tiga said so, I’ll share a bit with you. But don’t eat too much, or you’ll surpass Tiga, and he’ll be sad.” The boy nodded furiously. Before my spoon reached him, he swallowed it in one bite. After several big mouthfuls, he looked at me accusingly: “Why didn’t you give me veggies? Are you afraid I’ll surpass Tiga? Bad woman!” I looked back at Ethan. His brows relaxed, and he gave me an appreciative smile. 2 That night, I moved into the villa. Three floors. I lived on the second floor with four-year-old Leo. Ethan lived on the third. The butler emphasized repeatedly: “Absolutely no going to the third floor. A woman tried to climb into Mr. Sterling’s bed before and was thrown out the window.” I nodded repeatedly, promising not to cross the line. Like father, like son. The billionaire’s son slept alone at four, saving me a lot of trouble. The next afternoon, when Ethan came home from work, I was feeding Leo at the villa entrance. Leo had a dog leash around his neck, sitting on the ground next to a Golden Retriever. One bite for the dog, one bite for Leo. They were eating happily. Ethan’s face went black instantly. “Ava, what are you treating my son as?!” His voice was fierce and cold, scaring me into a shiver. “Woof!” Leo spoke first. “Dad, Ava and I are role-playing. Look, I ate way more than Goldie! Woof! Woof woof!” Ethan frowned deeper, slowly looking at the butler. The butler looked conflicted, hesitating to speak: “Sir, although Ms. Ava’s method is… unique, it’s effective! Before, we chased him and he wouldn’t eat. But this afternoon, the Young Master ate two bowls of rice, swearing to beat Goldie.” Ethan looked speechless, thin lips pressed tight. He watched his son devouring rice, veggies, meat, and soup. He sighed: “Um, humans and dogs should use separate utensils.” I replied immediately: “Sir, rest assured. Your dog is very clean; he hasn’t touched the Young Master’s spoon.” Ethan paused, face darkening, and turned into the villa. Leo finished two and a half bowls of rice. His belly was round like a ball, burping with every stretch of his neck. I had to walk him and Goldie in the garden for half an hour before going upstairs. What I didn’t know was that Ethan stood at the second-floor window watching us. Seeing his son barking and racing the dog, laughing happily, the corners of his tight lips hooked up into a long-lost smile. The butler sighed: “This Ms. Ava is unconventional! The Young Master who didn’t eat, speak, or move has changed so much in one day. Sir, I think we found the right person.” When I went upstairs, Ethan was sitting on the sofa in the living area, long legs crossed, exuding elegance. I untied Leo’s leash, about to take him for a bath, when Ethan called me: “Ava, let’s talk.” “Oh, okay, Mr. Sterling.” I handed the child to the butler and sat obediently opposite Ethan. “You’re good with kids. Have you given birth?” “No. I helped take care of my ex-husband’s sister’s child for two years.” At the time, my ex-husband’s family thought I earned too little and ordered me to quit my job. After I quit, they thought I was lazy, so they fired his sister’s nanny and made me take care of the kid. Ethan nodded: “The file says you’re divorced?” “Yes.” “Reason?” “Class mismatch.” Ethan looked at me deeply: “You saw the ad yesterday. I want to find a mom for Leo. This child is insecure, only wants to stay home, refuses to go to preschool. I’m busy, so I want a patient woman to be his mother.” “I will sign a prenup with you and notarize assets.” I nodded: “I understand.” 3 Rich families are all like this. Although my last marriage was for love. Because of the class gap, I signed a prenup too. So when the love ran out and we divorced, I was left with nothing. Even the wedding ring was taken back. For a top billionaire like Ethan, marriage was even more serious. “Actually, I’m satisfied just having a place to stay. We don’t need a marriage certificate,” I said. Ethan insisted: “The certificate is for Leo. I want to find him a long-term mother, and marriage is the most solid contract.” I nodded obediently: “Then we’ll do as you say.” “Don’t worry, I’ll give you $15,000 monthly allowance for your expenses.” This was a concern of mine, having suffered before. “Mr. Sterling, if we divorce in the future, can I take the allowance with me?” “Naturally. That money is yours.” “Okay then.” “Regarding marital life, I have no needs for now. So, you still sleep on the second floor.” “Okay, me neither.” Just like that, on the third day after my divorce, I got married again. Like the first marriage, no wedding. At dinner, the butler added a few dishes. Ethan handed me a diamond ring. I waved my hand: “No need.” Ethan said: “For Leo.” “Oh, okay. Sorry for the expense.” That night, just as I lay down, Leo pushed open my door, standing there conflicted. “What’s wrong?” I asked. He twisted his fingers, speaking awkwardly: “Ava, can you read me a bedtime story?” “What?” I thought I heard wrong. Leo bit his lip: “I’ll ask my dad to pay you more. Of course, if you don’t want to, forget it.” “Come here.” I waved. I lifted the duvet, and the little boy crawled in naturally. That night, Leo fell asleep in my bed after the story. The next morning, Ethan was shocked to hear this, appreciation showing on his face again. “Ava, thank you. I’ll add another $5,000 to your monthly allowance.” “Mr. Sterling, that’s too much!” It really was too much. After all, I gave much more in my last marriage, but when we divorced, I was too poor to afford a motel. I watched my ex’s sister’s kid during the day, cooked for my ex at night, satisfied his needs, and cleaned the house at midnight. Because my mother-in-law said: “Although we can afford a nanny, it’s not right for Ava to be idle at home.” Even so, the divorce settlement claimed I “enjoyed life” for three years. “Mr. Sterling, you’re giving too much. I like Leo; he’s cold outside but warm inside, very kind. Reading to him is no trouble.” As I spoke, I felt a small, warm hand grab my right hand. I looked down. Leo was holding my hand, looking up at me. His face was stern, but his big grape-like eyes were watery. Didn’t expect him to be so easily moved. Ethan said: “The women who came before only cared about pleasing me and ignored Leo’s feelings. The raise is settled.” Unable to refuse, I thanked him. From that day on, Leo was inseparable from me. Ethan was busy, so often, it was just the two of us at home. Until that day, I needed to go to the hospital for a checkup and medication. The butler said Leo couldn’t leave the villa gate or he’d have a stress reaction. So I negotiated with him to wait for me at home. Unexpectedly, Leo grabbed my hand and wouldn’t let go. He didn’t speak, just looked at me with melancholy, beautiful eyes. The butler sighed: “He’s afraid you’re leaving and won’t come back.” I patted his head: “I’m not leaving. Auntie will come back to read to you after seeing the doctor. Play by yourself for a bit, okay?” Before I could explain more, he climbed into the car first. The butler asked anxiously: “Young Master, are you going to the hospital with Auntie Ava too?” Leo nodded silently. The butler burst into tears: “Heaven has eyes! Protecting the Sterling family!” 4 The doctor said my depression had improved recently and encouraged me to keep relaxing. Before leaving, she prescribed a bunch of meds. Coming out of the clinic, Leo asked awkwardly: “Ava, are you sick?” “Yeah, Auntie didn’t eat well, so I got sick. Leo, don’t be like Auntie!” “Does it hurt?” His big eyes were full of worry. “If it hurts, I can give you candy.” He took a chocolate from his pocket and put it in my palm. “Dad told me if you eat candy, you forget the pain.” Looking at his innocent, concerned face, my tears fell without warning. In the three years at the Miller family, when I cried, they called me dramatic, saying a low-born girl didn’t deserve a young mistress’s life. When I said I had depression, my ex, Mark, said I was hypocritical, purposely annoying him. Even the nephew I cared for called me an ugly attention-seeker when we divorced. But this cold-faced child was willing to give his favorite candy to comfort me. I couldn’t help but hug Leo. Small and quiet, he curled in my arms, patting my back with his chubby hand. “Ava, I will eat well. When I grow up, I can protect you.” I smiled through tears: “Then grow up fast!” When we walked out of the hospital with red eyes, a low-profile Maybach was parked at the entrance. Ethan leaned against it. Tall, cold, and noble, he attracted many gazes. I walked over holding Leo’s hand. “Mr. Sterling, why are you here?” Ethan picked up his son. Seeing his calm demeanor, his eyes reddened, voice hoarse. “The butler said Leo went out with you. I was worried, so I came to see.” Leo lay in Ethan’s arms, holding my hand. “Dad, as long as I’m with Ava, you can be at ease.” Ethan looked at me deeply and nodded. “Dad understands.” That night, Ethan wanted to raise my allowance again. Scaring me into refusal. He asked: “Ava, you can make requests.” I hesitated and said: “Can you help me find a used car? Around $5,000, so it’s easier for me to go out.” Ethan said: “You can pick any car from my garage.” “The cheapest car in your garage is $300,000. I dare not drive it.” Ethan nodded: “Okay.” The next morning, a $5,000 Honda Fit was parked next to Ethan’s luxury cars. He also invited a world-renowned psychiatrist to the house. The diagnosis was the same. But the meds were switched to expensive imports I couldn’t afford before. Before leaving, the doctor told Ethan: “Mr. Sterling, your wife needs family companionship. Don’t pressure her.” Ethan nodded: “I remember.” The next day, I drove Leo out to play. He was insecure before, hysterical at small scares, so he hadn’t been to many places. Now, I wanted to show him the world. We went to the amusement park, then the wet market. The little bean followed me, carrying a lively fish, his handsome face tense. “Ava! I don’t want to carry it!” “But my hands are full. Help me, please?” I played the pity card. Leo gritted his teeth, holding the fish far away, looking disgusted, but said: “Fine! Just this once!” “Don’t buy fish next time!” I laughed secretly. Reaching the parking lot, I heard a familiar voice. “Ava?”

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My friends invited me to a New Year’s Eve party. I was dead broke, so I could only make some honey-glazed chicken wings to share. As I was about to leave, my mom’s face suddenly darkened. “Have I ever tasted your cooking? And you’re making it for those shady friends of yours?” “Instead of eating with them, you should have gone to meet the guy I set you up with a few days ago!” “Do you understand ‘networking up’? You never listen! I raised an ungrateful enemy!” I stopped in my tracks and, for the first time, refuted her complaints. “Fine. You take the wings. Give me back my paycheck!” 1 My mom froze for a moment, then her expression shifted rapidly. “What do you mean? Asking you to contribute to the household expenses makes you this unwilling?” “If I knew you were this shameless, I never should have given birth to you!” “Fine! You want money, right? I’ll give it back to you right now. From now on, pay for your own food, drink, and rent. Don’t expect me to spend my coffin money on you!” She ranted on and on, but made no move to actually pay me. I took a deep breath; even my mouth tasted bitter. Contributing to the household was fine. The problem was, who contributes everything? Ever since I started my internship, my mom demanded my debit card. If the direct deposit didn’t hit on time, she would interrogate me relentlessly. I thought about moving out and taking on side gigs in secret. But she stormed into my office, questioning me in front of everyone about why I wasn’t home by 10 PM, accusing me of sleeping with a colleague. In the end, she found out about my part-time job and took every cent I had earned. I often questioned myself: what was the point of working so hard day and night? I felt no joy on payday. The thought of facing my mother 24/7 made me dread even the weekends. But my mother, Mrs. Sarah Miller, acted stranger and stranger. She would look at me and sigh heavily. “Did you see Chloe next door? Her mom just mentioned her mouth felt bland, and Chloe bought her durian and bird’s nest.” “I don’t have that kind of luck. Raised a daughter into her twenties, and I haven’t even tasted a grain of rice she bought.” “My life is so bitter.” “When will you be like other people’s kids and care about me proactively? Don’t wait for me to ask!” I wanted to buy things for her! But did I have a single cent to my name? She said to ask her if I needed anything. But when I needed bus fare, she told me to walk to work. When I needed lunch money, she said to come home for three meals a day. My colleagues were envious. “Your mom loves you so much!” “If I went home for lunch every day, my mom would definitely get annoyed, haha.” In the end, I became the ungrateful one. A few days ago, around Christmas, my friends had already invited me out once. We hadn’t seen each other for a few years since college graduation. It was only because rich girl Penny returned from studying abroad that she organized the gathering. I wanted to go. I desperately wanted to go. I even swallowed my pride and contacted my father, whom I hadn’t seen in ages, asking for $200. He just sneered and scolded me. “Your mom wanted custody when we divorced.” “I never missed a child support payment all these years. You’ve graduated, and you still want money?” “Just like your mother, always eyeing the few bucks in my pocket!” “Besides, so what if your mom takes a little? Isn’t she saving it for you?” “You feel wronged over this little thing? Useless! Why should I give you money?” In the end, I had to decline the invitation. Penny DM’d me proactively, saying she hadn’t had home-cooked food in ages. I didn’t need to split the bill; just bringing some homemade food would be fine. The more I thought about it, the more agitated I felt. Then I realized the time. If I didn’t leave now, I’d be late. I sighed, deciding to argue later. I grabbed the wings and headed for the door. But she blocked me again. “Where are you going? Make yourself clear!” “Are those fox friends of yours more important than your mother?” “Speak!” 2 I was honestly too exhausted. I had no mood or time to argue with her. Thinking about the hour-long walk to the meeting place, I couldn’t delay any longer. I went into the kitchen and set aside a third of the wings. “I left some for you. The rest is for four people to share; I can’t take less.” “We see each other every day; they rarely get together.” “Just treat it as lending me $200, okay?” My mom scoffed, seeming satisfied with my lowered posture. But soon, she started nitpicking again. “These wings are cold. How am I supposed to eat them?” “Your mother loves spicy food and hates sweet things! You’ve been my daughter for twenty years, and you can’t even remember that?” “What is the use of raising a daughter?” The nameless fire in my heart flared up again. But thinking of my roommates whom I hadn’t seen in years, I sighed again, compromising with a hoarse voice. “Next time I’ll make a special batch just for you. Whatever you want.” “Mom, I just need $200. I promise to listen to you from now on.” Maybe I looked truly pathetic. She took out her phone and started the transfer. But when it came to entering the password, she hesitated. “You want money? Fine. But you must promise me you’ll be back before 8 PM.” It was already 6 PM! 8 PM? How was that even possible? I got anxious, unable to maintain my gentle facade. “Mom, New Year’s Eve goes past midnight. It’s about welcoming the first day of 2026 with friends.” “Just this once! I promise to come back as soon as I wake up tomorrow.” At first, hearing about staying out overnight, I hesitated. But now, I wanted to stay out more than anyone. My mental state was on the brink of collapse; I desperately needed some breathing room. But facing my plea, my mom simply turned off her phone screen. “What? Staying out all night?” “Absolutely not! If you’re not back before 8, you get nothing!” 3 I looked at her in disbelief. After a moment, I gritted my teeth and compromised again. “Okay, I’ll be back before 8.” “I haven’t seen them in years, I just want to catch up…” Since graduating and moving back home, I had zero friends. I went to work alone, left alone. Because I couldn’t afford to eat out or grab coffee with colleagues, I didn’t even have a work buddy. Everyone thought I was antisocial. I tried to negotiate for a small allowance several times, but only received more humiliation. “Why drink boba? It’s at least $6 a cup!” “Mom will boil some brown sugar water for you at home. Take it in a thermos.” “These were rare treats in the past! Don’t be ungrateful.” Now, I finally had an invitation. I wanted to go so badly. Seeing her about to renege, I panicked completely. I grabbed her phone and shoved it into her hand. “Stop stalling, Mom. Transfer it!” “I don’t have a penny. It’s so embarrassing to go out like this!” But seeing the anxiety on my face, Mrs. Miller suddenly laughed. “Why the rush? If you don’t bring money, will they kick you out?” “Friends who only care about benefits aren’t real friends. Someday you’ll understand my good intentions.” “Only ‘networking up’ is worth spending money on!” I couldn’t take it anymore. Seeing she was obstinate, I didn’t want to struggle anymore. I took a deep breath, turned, and headed for the door. But she followed me, nagging incessantly. “You child, you never listen!” “Why waste time with those people? Mom doesn’t want to withhold money; I just don’t want you wasting time.” “Didn’t the match I introduced last time invite you for New Year’s Eve too?” Hearing her bring him up again, I snapped. I questioned her angrily. “Enough, okay? I don’t want to talk nonsense with you. Do you really think you’re making sense?” “An old man who wants the girl to stay over after knowing her for a few days—in your mouth, he’s a treasure?” “Networking up? Why didn’t you network up? When you looked for a husband, for a boyfriend, why didn’t you use those standards?” “You know to pick the good-looking ones, but you find me one who breathes bad breath as soon as he speaks!” “I think you’ve been infected. Everything you say stinks!” “I’ll say it one more time. Those are my friends, not shady characters, and not fox friends!” With that, I carried the wings and walked out, afraid that if I stopped, I’d never leave today. But the next second, pain shot through my wrist. My mom rushed up, slapped my arm hard, and threw the wings out the window. “Just because you ate two wings, you think you can fly?” “Let me tell you, Lily Miller, in this house, you don’t call the shots!” “You dare raise your voice at your mother? You’re not going anywhere today!” 4 I stared blankly at the wings thrown outside. My mom acted like she didn’t see anything and started complaining to herself. “How did I mistreat you? How can you say that?” “He’s nine years older than you, but he earns $3,000 more. Together you can pay the mortgage and car loan, just enough!” “With a matchmaker’s guarantee, isn’t it better than finding one yourself?” “I think your heart is wild! Seduced by men outside!” We lived in an old apartment complex; the soundproofing was terrible. Her voice was sharp and piercing. My vision went black from the noise; I almost fainted. She didn’t stop, continuing to curse loudly. “I saw it when you were in college!” “Wearing those skirts that barely cover your butt, who knows who you wanted to seduce!” “I never did such things. Do you want to be like that vixen your dad kept, a whore who destroys families?” Mentioning that past event made me feel worse. Growing up, my mom’s education was: no dressing up, no clothes other than school uniforms. She said a student’s job is to study. But this habit persisted into college. Without uniforms, I suddenly didn’t know what to wear. My living expenses were limited, so I wore cheap jackets and pants from Temu every day. Until one day, my pants split when I squatted in the dorm. My face flushed red with shame. My roommate lent me a dress, saying I was at the age of blossoming and should allow myself to be beautiful. I remember it was a beautiful white floral dress, knee-length, safe but showing my calves. I loved it. I secretly skipped dinner for a month to ask for the link. But the day the dress arrived, my mom saw it and cut it to shreds. She also dragged me to the salon and cut my long hair into a bob. “This is a student cut! Do you understand?” “Just because you’re in college doesn’t mean you’re not a student!” “Stop thinking those crooked thoughts. They are unclean themselves and want you to be played by men too!” Those words were too ugly. I didn’t even dare look at my roommates’ faces. After that, we tacitly stopped being close. Until I fainted in class and was taken to the hospital by my roommates. Seeing my haggard state, the teenage girls couldn’t bear it, and we became friends again. I think my mom just couldn’t stand me having sincere friends. She wasn’t reconciled to me being with them, to me escaping her control. So she used her old tricks, wanting my friends to hate me again. Sure enough, she started screaming again. “Those friends of yours are up to no good! Telling you not to come home? Who knows if they found some old man to sell you to!” “If you dare leave, I’ll die right here!” She always used this to force me into submission. But this time, I just looked at her calmly and climbed onto the windowsill before she could. “Do you want to die, or do you want me to die?” “What did I do wrong to be treated like this?!” By the end, I was almost hysterical. Tears uncontrollable, body shaking, I questioned her sentence by sentence. “I just accepted parental support like most kids.” “Why, in your mouth, is it an unforgivable sin I have to repay for a lifetime?” “Why, when I just started working, couldn’t you wait to take money back?” “Since you see me as an investment, you should be prepared to lose money!” With that, my emotions peaked, my body swaying precariously. But the expected panic and repentance didn’t come. My mom sneered, rushed forward, grabbed my hair, dragged me off the sill, and slammed my head against the wall. “You think I’m easily scared?” “I used that trick before you were born!” “You want to die? Go ahead! Jumping is too quick and easy for you!” “If you die, it has to be a living hell!” I was dizzy from the impact, but the pain in my heart spread, drowning out even the throbbing in my forehead. In an instant, my desire to die vanished, replaced by questions. Why should I be the one to die? Why must I die when I did nothing wrong? Why die obediently when I haven’t enjoyed anything? I suddenly remembered a line from a hit show and blurted it out unconsciously. “Mom… thank you.” “Thank you for not changing. Thank you for still being like this.” “This way, I can finally make up my mind.” Hearing the first sentence, Mrs. Miller smiled triumphantly. She let go, responding lightly. “Why didn’t you act like this sooner?” “You young people, your lives were given by your elders, yet you all want to climb on our heads!” “If you had always been this good…” Towards the end, she stopped, looking at me warily. “Make up what mind?” “What do you mean?” Before the words fell. A knock sounded at the door! My mom froze, looking a bit panicked. A moment later, she glared at me, fixed her hair, and warned in a low voice. “Be careful. If you embarrass me, you’ll pay.” She snorted, walked to the door with a sway, and looked through the peephole. Her expression changed, voice squeezed through gritted teeth. “Why are you here? Who asked you to come?” “Get out, my house doesn’t welcome you!” But the doorbell rang again and again, relentless. The veins on Mrs. Miller’s forehead throbbed. Finally, unable to bear it, she pulled the door open. “Don’t understand human language? Get out!”

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When I was twenty, I knitted my first scarf for the boy I secretly loved. At Liam Sterling’s birthday party, he accepted the scarf amidst everyone’s mocking gazes. Three days after my brother died, I went to the admin office to withdraw from college. I happened to overhear the students inside joking while sorting files. “Are you really going to throw away that scarf from the hillbilly, Grace?” “That thing? It’s not even worth comparing to the designer coat Bella bought him. It’s worse than a hotel towel. Just toss it.” “If I knew Liam didn’t want his little follower’s gift, I would have taken it as a doormat. It’s a pity to throw it away; after all, she knitted it stitch by stitch.” Bella was his childhood sweetheart. Liam laughed, crumpled the scarf into a ball, and casually tossed it at the boy. The boy dodged nimbly. The scarf fell next to the trash can, looking pathetic. Our eyes met for a second. I silently took my withdrawal papers and left. I knew I had no right to question him. He stood behind me and seemed to say something, but I didn’t hear it. Six years later, when I returned to New York, I heard a rumor. The Sterling family heir had a “white moonlight”—a first love—who had been missing for years. 1 I came to New York to expand my boutique clothing brand. On the first day of opening, an old acquaintance walked in. “Grace?!” I was arranging clothes on the rack. I had changed my name years ago. Hearing that name, I froze. Recovering, I turned and met a pair of shocked eyes. The man in front of me looked somewhat unfamiliar, with handsome features and expensive clothes. But I couldn’t remember where I had seen him. I smiled apologetically. “You are?” He scratched his head subconsciously. That action instantly reminded me who he was. Carter. Liam’s friend. The boy who said six years ago that he would use my scarf as a doormat. Beside him stood a girl, holding his arm, slender and tall, smiling brightly. In the VIP room. While the girl was in the fitting room, Carter looked around my shop. “You… you opened this? This brand is so popular lately. I didn’t expect you to be the owner…” Carter seemed to remember something, a trace of embarrassment on his face. “About back then… I was joking. Please don’t take it to heart. Actually, I’ve wanted to apologize for years, but I couldn’t find you.” “Where have you been all these years? Why did you suddenly drop out? And there was no news at all…” His voice trailed off. I calmly took the fruit platter from the waiter and placed it on the table. “Nowhere special. Just went back to my hometown.” Went back home, changed my name, and restarted my life. He was about to ask more when his girlfriend came out. The clothes fit perfectly. The girl was satisfied and bought several more items. But soon, she offered a suggestion. “Your autumn/winter collection isn’t complete. Other stores market hats, brooches, shoes, and scarves together.” “I just tried on the clothes and noticed you don’t have matching scarves. I think you could improve on that.” I explained gently, “Our brand doesn’t plan to make scarves yet. Sorry. I’ll give you a 30% discount on these items…” Before leaving, Carter spoke cautiously, “Actually, all these years, Liam has been…” Suddenly, a loud crash of metal came from the store. I turned and saw the display rack I had half-assembled collapse. I rubbed my forehead in frustration. Great, have to install it again. Carter was still talking. I nodded hastily, turning to instruct the staff to handle the mess. He was overjoyed and immediately stuffed an invitation into my hand. “It’s settled then. Tomorrow is Liam’s birthday. You must come!” Before I could refuse, Carter walked away quickly. Giving me no chance to back out. My business partner, Zoe, stretched as she walked out from the back. “What was that noise? Woke me up. What’s this… Liam Sterling?” She stared obsessively at the invitation in my hand. Forgetting to put down her stretching arms, she exclaimed Liam’s name. I was puzzled. “You know him?” Zoe nodded furiously, her sleepy eyes instantly brightening. “Of course! Isn’t he the Prince of the Sterling family? I saw him at a fashion show recently.” “He sat in the front row, tall and handsome. Took over the company right after graduation, and profits doubled under him…” “Hey, this birthday invitation? How did you get it?” I said calmly, “Carter gave it to me.” Hearing this, Zoe looked at me with admiration. 2 “Carter?! Oh my god, Grace, how many connections do you have that I don’t know about!” “Carter, and now Liam Sterling… but…” She lowered her voice mysteriously. “I heard Liam has someone he likes.” “But the girl he likes seems to have disappeared years ago. He spent so much effort looking for her but couldn’t find her. I remember her last name was Miller… what a coincidence, Grace Miller!” I lowered my eyes, interrupting her fantasy. “Don’t overthink it. Miller is a common name.” “So, are you going to Liam’s birthday party tomorrow?” “No.” She was disappointed by the answer. But she seemed more interested in my connections. The autumn wind was bleak, rolling up fallen leaves on the street. I pulled my coat tighter, subconsciously touching my cold neck. Under Zoe’s relentless questioning. I opened the past I had deliberately sealed in my heart. “I had a crush on Liam. In my youth.” “A crush that was a complete failure from start to finish.” Freshman orientation day. Students went up one by one, confidently stating their hobbies. I lowered my head in embarrassment. I was poor. My mom died giving birth to me. My dad shouldered the burden of the family alone. In my junior year of high school, my dad was diagnosed with cancer. My brother dropped out to work. But the monthly medical bills still crushed us. When it was my turn, my palms sweated with nervousness. My stuttering made the students below laugh. “Where is this hillbilly from? Wearing a floral dress? So outdated. Can’t she keep up with trends?” “I saw her at move-in. Her family looks poor. Her suitcase lost two wheels, and she didn’t even replace it…” “Can’t even introduce herself properly. Get off the stage, don’t waste our time!” I clutched my skirt, face flushed. My dad and brother took me to buy this dress before school started. I said it was too expensive. My dad paid with a simple smile. “It’s okay, don’t worry about money. Wear something nice on the first day, leave a good impression.” The dress wasn’t cheap. $200. Half a month’s living expenses. I turned awkwardly to leave, but a loud voice came from the crowd. “Who said it’s ugly? It’s not. I think it looks good.” Following the voice, everyone fell silent. Liam leaned back in his chair, chewing gum. When he said that, his eyes were fixed on me. In that moment, the world faded to black and white, except for him. I could only see the bright eyes of the boy and the smile on his lips. Zoe nodded thoughtfully, shaking my arm excitedly. “So you started crushing on him then?” “Such a handsome guy saving you from embarrassment. I would have fallen for him too.” I sipped my tea calmly. Actually, no. My real interaction with Liam started during winter break. I was working at a car wash when the sound of an argument approached. A car braked hard in front of the shop. Then, a bouquet of exquisite flowers was thrown out the window, hitting me on the head as I bent over to adjust a machine. “Liam, what’s with your attitude? I came back to fix things, and this is how you treat me?” Liam’s lazy sneer followed. “Bella, I picked you up at the airport because I didn’t want to embarrass your parents. Why do you think I’d wait for you?” “We agreed to go to Columbia together, but you left for Paris without a word. What, you have the right to pursue dreams, but I don’t have the right to pursue love?” Bella laughed in anger. “Love? Don’t tell me the great Liam Sterling fell in love with someone else.” Liam turned his head, his eyes meeting mine as I rubbed my head. He smiled suddenly. “Did you think you were irreplaceable?” “Bella, let me tell you. From now on, anyone but you will do.” He got out of the car, took a black velvet box from his jacket, and tossed it to me. “For you.” Bella cried in anger. “Even a car wash girl?” Liam answered frivolously. “Yes.” Bella got out of the car crying and disappeared into the crowd. She didn’t look back, so she didn’t see Liam’s gaze fixed on her back the whole time. From that day on, I became Liam’s sidekick. Because he paid me to act with him. If I acted well, there was money. 3 I agreed. As a tool to provoke Bella. I spent almost the entire winter break with him. At parties, Liam gently wiped foam from my lips. When I lost at Truth or Dare, he drank for me with a smile, saying no one could bully me. Walking me home in the snow, snowflakes fell on his shoulders, but his umbrella tilted toward me. When I had a fever, he took me to the hospital. His busy figure touched my heart at some point. There were many moments when I even thought Liam was really my boyfriend. Dining at a high-end restaurant, he imitated a couple at the next table and said to me: “I want a scarf knitted by you too.” He said it casually, but I inevitably took it seriously. I started secretly preparing materials. Because I wasn’t skilled, I knitted and unraveled, over and over. The yarn lost its elasticity in places, looking a bit crooked. Bella didn’t care at first. After all, she didn’t believe Liam would really like someone as ordinary and plain as me. But halfway through winter break, Liam hadn’t given her a single glance. Bella panicked. In a bar, his friends jokingly called me “Sister-in-law.” Liam lazily pulled down his collar, revealing a temporary tattoo of my initials on his collarbone. Everyone exclaimed, saying he really fell for me. In that moment, Bella finally snapped. She smashed a beer bottle over my head, the butterfly tattoo on her wrist trembling. “Grace Miller, who are you to compete with me? Does a hillbilly like you deserve him?” Red blood flowed down my brow bone into my eye. My vision turned red, but I still saw clearly. Liam smiled, eyes fixed on Bella. He was trying hard to hide the heartache in his eyes. He wanted Bella to regret, to go crazy, to lose her mind for him. On the verge of Bella’s breakdown, Liam finally stopped hiding his pain. He pulled the weeping Bella into his arms, kissing her lips with restraint. “Just a tattoo sticker. You believed it?” No one cared about me, covered in blood. The people who called me “Sister-in-law” cheered for their love. I quietly exited with the others, leaving them space. After treating the wound, I hid the half-knitted scarf deep in the closet. Liam didn’t look for me for a whole semester. Maybe he forgot about me. His relationship with Bella seemed to get better. Sometimes in class, I saw Liam video chatting with Bella. His eyes looking at her were always so gentle. Probably due to the time difference, Bella was usually sleeping in bed, like a lazy, noble cat. I don’t know why, but my heart felt sour. I suddenly remembered when we lay on the grass watching stars, he said out of nowhere: “If only it could be like this forever.” I was confused. “What?” He fell silent. After a long time, he shook his head and said nothing. Later, the hospital urged payment for my dad’s bills. My brother’s advance wages couldn’t cover the expenses. Desperate, I remembered Liam hadn’t paid my last installment. So I gathered my courage and found Liam at his usual bar. Liam must have fought with Bella again. He hid in the darkness, the air around him terrifyingly cold. Everyone held their breath, waiting for Liam’s answer. He said, act with him one more time. I did. A staged kidnapping. Liam’s distress and deep affection when saving me were reported online. He successfully provoked Bella again. I paid my dad’s medical bills. Half a month later. He suddenly handed me a birthday invitation. I took it nervously, calculating what to give. He seemed to lack nothing. I couldn’t afford expensive things; he wouldn’t like cheap ones. Thinking about it, my eyes fell on the unfinished scarf. When I gave the scarf at his party, the room went silent. Then erupted in harsh laughter. Liam didn’t laugh. Embarrassed, I tried to pull my hand back, but Liam grabbed my wrist. “Thanks. It’s nice. I like it.” One day later, I realized this was probably another show for Bella. The next day, it rained heavily. Amidst thunder, I received a call. “Is this Grace Miller? Your brother, John, had an accident at the construction site. He was gone before reaching the hospital. The hospital needs family to sign…” The foreman said my brother fell from a height because he didn’t fasten his safety rope properly. I didn’t believe it. My brother was never careless. I wanted to ask for details, but the construction company paid $80,000 and closed the case. Holding the money, I felt lost, tears not even falling yet. At the same time, my dad learned of my brother’s death. In the hospital. He hesitated for a long time, then said with a trembling voice, “The doctor says it’s terminal, medicine won’t help. Grace, I’m stopping treatment.” I disagreed, insisting he stay. My dad started packing, walking out without looking back. At the hospital entrance, I knelt and blocked him, breaking down. “Dad, please treat it. I only have you left. I’ll pay! I’ll drop out and work!” “Brother just died. I don’t want to live without you!” “I’ll kowtow to you. Please!” Passersby stopped to watch, shaking their heads and sighing. In the hospital, this happened every day. Not rare. Three days after handling my brother’s funeral, I went to school to withdraw. I happened to hear Liam say he would throw away that ridiculous scarf. Zoe clicked her tongue. “How could this happen…” The welcome chime at the door rang with a gust of cold wind. I silenced myself, wiping a tear. Before I could say “Welcome.” A pair of wet men’s leather shoes appeared in my vision. “Grace Miller… is it really you?!” 4 It was Liam. Before coming to New York, I imagined meeting old acquaintances many times. So, my gaze was calm. Six years of hardship were enough for me to handle everything with composure. Liam stood there, panting, travel-worn, hair messy, like he rushed from far away. He looked at me. I looked back without hesitation. The emotion in his eyes was familiar. I seemed to have seen it somewhere. But I couldn’t remember. But I understood one truth. Business is about service attitude. I stood up unhurriedly. “Hello.” In my polite, distant greeting, Liam realized his brashness. He grabbed my wrist, as if afraid I’d run. “Grace, let’s talk.” I didn’t agree, smiling. “We do need to talk. The Sterling Group is hosting the next fashion show. Our autumn designs are ready. Since you’re here…” He interrupted me. “Grace, you know that’s not what I want to talk about.” My business smile faded. Silence for a long time. I spoke slowly. “Liam, you weren’t wrong back then. You just didn’t like me. We used each other. No misunderstanding.” The light in his eyes extinguished. After a long while, he murmured. “I’m sorry.” Sorry? I didn’t know if he was sorry for saying he’d throw away the scarf. Or something else. But it didn’t matter. I didn’t know, and I didn’t want to know. Just as I was about to call a staff member, I realized Zoe had quietly left. Liam suddenly asked tremblingly, “How is your father?” “Passed away. The day I dropped out.” I suddenly remembered Liam had met my dad. There was a flu outbreak in New York. I had a high fever. Delirious. Waking up, my dad’s sickly face had a rare teasing look. “You were calling a name.” “Who is Liam? Is our Grace in love?” Embarrassed, I pulled the blanket over my head. Tracing his face in my chaotic mind. Until I heard someone calling my name outside the blanket. “Grace, wake up, eat something.” “Feeling better today?” My blanket was lifted gently. The person I was missing stood by the bed. He greeted my dad with a smile. “Hello Uncle, I’m Liam, Grace’s boyfriend.” Facing my dad, Liam never showed his rich-kid temper. When my dad offered hometown specialties, I was nervous. Liam was picky. He wouldn’t even look at delicacies, let alone salty preserved meats. But Liam showed no disgust. He gave a thumbs up, saying it was delicious. Before he left, my dad packed a huge bag for him. But later, when I went to his house… I saw the familiar plastic bag in the kitchen trash. In that moment, I understood. The young master had good manners. Even if he didn’t like it, he gave me face in front of my dad. My dad didn’t know about our deal. He thought we were in a healthy relationship. Seeing us together on the street, he would Venmo me money. “I can tell Liam is a good kid. Get along well. Eat whatever you want.” “With him taking care of you, I have no worries.” I thought it was just a normal sigh. I didn’t expect that after I returned home from withdrawing, a neighbor rushed in shouting. “Grace! Your dad jumped into the ocean!”

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Chapter 1 At our seventh-anniversary dinner party, my husband shouted from the kitchen. “Babe, come help me serve this dish.” Before I could even stand up from my seat, my best friend had already trotted over, hugging him from behind and taking the plate. Seeing me frozen in place, she quickly explained. “I’m so used to being ordered around by my mom at home, it’s become a reflex. Don’t overthink it.” I didn’t argue or make a scene. I finished the dinner party with a composed face. After the guests left, I calmly said to my husband, who was clearing the table, “Let’s get a divorce.” My husband slammed down the bowls and chopsticks, glaring at me. “Seriously? Just because she helped me serve a dish?” … “Emily, in seven years of marriage, I’ve never let you do a single chore. I’ve spoiled you rotten, giving you everything.” “Now, just because of an unintentional act by your best friend, you want to divorce me? Do you have a conscience?” Mark questioned me with red eyes, as if I had done something unforgivable. I didn’t respond directly. Instead, I shifted my gaze to the dining table, to the plate of squirrel-shaped mandarin fish with only a little left at the bottom. “In seven years of marriage, every time we ate, you knew this was my favorite dish you made, and you would always place it closest to me.” “But this time, you placed it in front of Jessica, who also likes it.” Mark choked for a moment, then said grumpily, “What’s there to say about that? There was no one to help serve the dishes at the time. I was dizzy and busy, didn’t think too much.” I shook my head, my voice hoarse. “It’s not just this dish. When everyone sat down, you pulled out the chair for Jessica first.” “When her glass was empty, you opened a new drink, and it was orange flavor, which she likes but I don’t.” “Mark, human thinking has inertia. When you love someone, your subconscious wants to give them the best.” “When you were too busy to think, you were subconsciously good to another woman. That is the key reason I want to divorce you.” Mark’s face darkened, looking at me like I was crazy. “Emily, are you sick? A few unintentional actions, and you interpret so much out of them? If you’re so capable, why don’t you become a detective?” “Besides, is that ‘another woman’? That’s Jessica! Your best friend since childhood!” “If it weren’t for your sake, I wouldn’t have taken care of her more. How did it become me having an affair with her in your mouth? Are you reasonable?” He went to the study, found a photo album, and threw it in front of me. Inside, one by one, were photos of Jessica and me from childhood to the present, each one smiling like sisters. The most prominent ones were from my wedding, when Jessica was my maid of honor. On stage, she wept as she watched Mark and me exchange rings, her expression moved. In the next one, Jessica and I hugged tightly on stage. She was holding my bridal bouquet, smiling brilliantly. I looked at these photos and suddenly smiled sarcastically in hindsight. “When we exchanged rings, the tips of her shoes were pointed at you. So she wasn’t moved by my marriage, but weeping for you.” “When hugging me, she was smiling at someone outside the frame. From the angle of the shot, that person was you.” “So seven years ago, she had such thoughts about you. No wonder she has remained single all these years.” “And what about you? When did you start?” Mark took a step back, his face full of disappointment and anger at me. “Emily, I thought you were just temporarily stuck in a dead end and couldn’t think straight. I didn’t expect you to be crazy to this extent, confusing black and white even about the past!” “I think I’ve spoiled you too much, making you so tricky, willful, and unreasonable!” “I’ll give you a day to reflect on your mistakes. Tomorrow is my grandfather’s eightieth birthday. If you still have a shred of respect as a junior, you shouldn’t bring this trouble before Grandpa!” He threw the apron heavily and slammed the door as he left. 2 I sat weakly in the chair facing a table full of messy cups and plates. Mark and I met and fell in love in college. My family was wealthy, but I never despised him as a poor student living on financial aid. I selflessly helped him in both study and life, even paying for him to study abroad for two years at a prestigious university to gild his resume. Mark is a smart man. Knowing his shortcomings, he always took great care of my emotions. After marriage, he indeed gave me meticulous care in life, never letting me suffer the slightest grievance. But even the most thorough person will reveal clues when they care too much and get flustered. I opened my phone and found that Mark had unknowingly turned off the location sharing he had bound with me. Without notifying anyone, I changed my clothes and went directly to Jessica’s bar. Because I dressed particularly low-key, no one noticed me from the moment I entered. I walked along the corridor, unimpeded all the way, to the door of private room 999, which Jessica used exclusively to entertain friends. Before pushing the door open, I heard Mark’s complaining voice from inside. “Knowing I’m being bullied by a tigress, you guys still laugh. Do you have any sympathy?” There was a room full of people sitting inside. At a glance, most of them were friends who came to my dinner party tonight! They sat or stood, looking relaxed, with no intention of speaking for me at all. Amidst their laughter, I felt cold all over. In the center seat of the private room, Jessica played with a wine glass, tilted her head and smiled at Mark beside her. “Who told you to be careless and call me ‘baby’ in Emily’s house?” “I didn’t react for a moment and subconsciously tied the apron for you.” “I thought she wouldn’t be so sensitive, but unexpectedly, she still noticed.” Putting down the glass, she lit a cigarette with a smile, using the limited edition antique lighter I gave her for her birthday last year. Just as she put it in her mouth, Mark naturally snatched the cigarette away. “You’re a mother now, why don’t you have any sense of propriety? I told you not to smoke during pregnancy!” Jessica has had a violent temper since childhood and never submitted to anyone’s discipline. Back then, when her dad forbade her to smoke, she could pick up a kitchen knife and challenge the old man. But now, facing Mark, she showed a submissive smile I had never seen before. “Okay, okay, I’ll listen to you. If I don’t smoke, I don’t smoke.” “After all, you are the biological father of my child, of course you have the final say.” She stroked her still flat lower abdomen, smiled and leaned her head on Mark’s shoulder. My blood froze in this instant. Jessica and Mark not only cheated, but even had a child! 3 “Speaking of which, Emily is also unreasonable. Why did she choose to be child-free for no reason?” “Exactly. Brother Mark’s family has been a single heir for three generations. Isn’t she intentionally harming people?” Hearing the ridicule of the people around me, Jessica, who had always stood by my side since childhood no matter what, smiled contemptuously and actually chimed in: “She was spoiled, so she doesn’t know how to consider others.” And my husband, Mark, held Jessica’s hand while smiling affectionately. “Jess, you are willing to bear a child for me. You are not only my benefactor, but also a great hero of my family!” “From now on, our lives will be more closely linked and will never be separated!” Hearing his words, my tears rolled down, and I almost couldn’t stand. Back then, my mother had a difficult labor and heavy bleeding when giving birth to me. She passed away before she could even hold me. Because of this, I have always had a fear of childbirth. Early in our relationship, I told Mark that I planned to be child-free in this life. If he minded, we would end it here. But at that time, Mark hugged me tightly and said emotionally in my ear: “I am already content to meet you in this life. Children are not important at all. My love for you will not decrease by a single bit!” I was full of emotion at that time, thinking that I had met a man who loved me beyond the instinct of reproduction, and possessed a one-in-a-million true love. But now, seeing Mark’s deep affection for Jessica, I know how wrong I was! In the private room, someone asked: “But, do you two plan to hide it from Emily for a lifetime?” “Now that you have a child, you might as well open up to Emily. After the divorce, you can be together openly!” Everyone looked at the two of them in unison, and Mark shook his head immediately. “Impossible. Jess and she have been good friends for more than twenty years. I can’t bear to let her break up with her best friend because of me.” “Moreover, my career is deeply bound to the Evans family. I can’t completely tear my face with Emily.” “So from the very beginning of being together, Jess and I agreed that no matter what, we cannot bring the relationship to Emily, and divorce is even more impossible.” It turns out Mark also knows that his current wealth and status rely on my investment and help. The fundamental reason for maintaining a relationship with me turned out to be profit. Everyone sighed, and someone looked at Jessica with sympathy. “Jess, you are such a proud person. Are you willing to bring up a child in the dark for a lifetime?” Jessica snorted and smiled, turned Mark’s face, and printed a lingering kiss on his lips. “Isn’t marriage just a piece of paper? I don’t care.” “Besides, a wife is not as good as a concubine, and a concubine is not as good as stealing. Stealing under Emily’s nose for a lifetime, just thinking about it is exciting.” If I hadn’t heard it with my own ears, I wouldn’t believe that such words came from my best friend whom I have known for more than twenty years. There was laughter and joy in the private room, but I felt like I had fallen into hell on earth. Overnight, I went from the happiest woman in the world to a clown who suffered betrayal of both love and friendship at the same time. What is even sadder is that I turned out to be the last person in the circle of friends to know about this. My friends whom I thought were close always helped them cover up, watching them play me around, but no one came to remind me. Weeping, I walked out of the bar and dialed the legal department. “Prepare a divorce agreement for me. I want Mark to leave the marriage with nothing.” “In addition, I want you to help me do a few more things…” 4 The next day was the eightieth birthday of the Zhou family patriarch. The Zhou family had prepared for this birthday banquet for a long time. Early in the morning, the courtyard house I bought for them was decorated with lanterns and festoons. Flowers and longevity peaches were placed everywhere, and a symphony orchestra was invited to perform live. But when I stepped into the gate, I saw Jessica sitting at the main table in the room. And my mother-in-law, who always treated me coldly, was holding her hand affectionately at this moment, asking about her health. “Little Jess, a woman pregnant with a child eats for two. You must pay more attention to strengthening nutrition.” “You are too thin. I feel distressed watching you. In the future, I will cook three meals a day for you and let Mark deliver them to you every day!” Jessica smiled obediently and sweetly. Seeing me come in, she didn’t look panicked at all. “Emily, on such a big day today, why did you come just now? I’ve been waiting for you for a long time.” If it were usual, I would think this was the most normal greeting. But now, I clearly heard belittling and suppression in her words, implying that I was a person who didn’t even care about important events in my husband’s family. Sure enough, after the Zhou family members at the table heard it, their faces, which were not good to me originally, became even worse. “She is a wealthy young lady after all. It’s good enough that she can come. How can we ask for so much?” After my mother-in-law sarcastically mocked me, she changed her face and smilingly handed a piece of fruit to Jessica. “Little Jess, this is the cantaloupe Mark had air-freighted from Hainan this morning. It’s very sweet. Eat more.” Jessica greeted me to sit next to her, but I sat directly opposite her, separated by a whole round table, and spoke calmly. “When did you get pregnant? My mother-in-law knows, but I’m still kept in the dark.” A trace of guilt flashed across Jessica’s face, then she smiled: “Just found out. I was preparing to tell you today, but I didn’t expect Auntie to see it first.” “Yes, a pregnant woman has a special aura. We who have given birth can tell at a glance!” My mother-in-law smoothed things over, not forgetting to sarcastically mock me: “Little Emily, you haven’t given birth, so naturally you don’t understand.” I didn’t take her words, my eyes still on Jessica. “Where is the child’s father? When does he plan to marry you?” Hearing the coldness in my tone, the smile on Jessica’s mouth faded a bit, “I am a non-marriageist and don’t plan to get married. Anyway, someone will raise the child after birth. No need for superficial efforts.” But I laughed. “You are too big-hearted as a mother. Others do their best to raise children, but you are willing to let your child be a nameless illegitimate child.” I emphasized the word “illegitimate child”. After saying this, the whole room fell silent. Jessica’s face turned green and white. She stared at me fiercely but couldn’t say a word. At this time, Mark, who hadn’t shown up all along, finally arrived supporting Master Zhou. Seeing Jessica at the dinner table, his face changed instantly: “Jessica, why are you here? Who let you come?” “I invited Little Jess!” My mother-in-law suddenly stood up and pointed at me, cursing: “The old man is celebrating his eightieth birthday, and he still hasn’t held a great-grandson. It’s all because of this hen that can’t lay eggs!” “Now that Little Jess has finally conceived a golden grandson for our family, how can I wrong her? Of course I have to invite her to attend the birthday banquet together!” Her remarks fell into my trap, but also completely tore off Mark’s last fig leaf. Mark was so angry that he almost jumped up: “Mom, what nonsense are you talking about? Jessica and I are innocent. How could the child she is carrying be mine!” He desperately winked at my mother-in-law, but she pushed him away. “What is there to hide? It was Emily’s fault for not being able to bear children. How dare she speak shamelessly and say my grandson is an illegitimate child!” “I looked forward to this golden grandson for so long. How can I allow others to insult him like this!” Mark wanted to cry but had no tears. Just as he was about to explain, Jessica stood up and looked straight at me. “Emily, actually you already knew, right?” “Since that’s the case, I won’t hide it from you anymore. I am indeed pregnant with Mark’s child.” “I have seen all his kindness and dedication to you over the years. I both envy and hate you for not appreciating your blessings, unwilling to even bear him a child.” “You don’t cherish such a good man, but plenty of women want him!” In front of me, she grabbed Mark’s hand and vowed: “Mark, whatever Emily can give you, I can give you too!” “I don’t want to endure anymore. Today I want to be with you openly and honestly!” Mark’s eyes flickered, seeming to be weighing the pros and cons. But soon, he held Jessica’s hand back and looked at me as if burning his boats. “Since everything is out in the open, Emily, let’s part on good terms. Let’s divorce!” “I don’t want a penny of what belongs to you, but the Zhou Corporation was developed by me alone, so don’t even think about taking it!” Seeing his shameless face, I laughed in anger. If it weren’t for me, how could he, a penniless student, quickly get financing to start a business after graduation, receive hundreds of high-quality client orders in a row, and counterattack to become a winner in life in the top ten of the rich list within ten years? But no matter. Compared to dealing with him, I have a more interesting thing to do together. In front of Jessica and Mark, I took out my phone. “It’s me, Emily.” “The capital strangulation against the Xie and Zhou families can begin.”

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