I hadn’t had my period for three months, so I eagerly rushed to the hospital for an ultrasound. The doctor stared at my results for a long moment, then looked up, utterly shocked. “Miss Stella, you don’t have a uterus!” My first reaction was denial. “How could I not have a uterus? My periods were always normal before; they just suddenly stopped three months ago.” The doctor checked my records on the computer. “Three months ago, you had a hysterectomy.” A hysterectomy? I immediately shook my head. “No, three months ago, I had an appendectomy!” “The surgical record clearly states ‘hysterectomy,’ and your husband’s signature is on the consent form.” Refusing to give up, I pleaded with the doctor to retrieve the consent form from that time. \[Patient: Stella Anderson, Procedure: Hysterectomy] At the bottom, Liam’s signature was bold and sweeping. —It was undeniably his handwriting. I was still reeling from the shock when the doctor suddenly discovered something else on her computer. “Your husband’s name is Liam Anderson, right?” “Yes.” “He just accompanied another woman for a prenatal check-up. Her name is Chloe Miller. Do you know her?” I did know her. A year ago, when Liam was in a car accident, Chloe was the one who saved him.

I don’t know how I left the hospital. Crossing the street, I nearly got hit by a car. Both the driver and I were startled. But my mind was a mess. Liam and I had been together since high school, from awkward teenagers to getting married. Fifteen years, just like that, through countless summers and winters. Everyone around us knew he was absolutely crazy about me. Even in the second before the car crash, Liam had pushed me out of the vehicle, while he and the car plunged off the cliff. And Chloe, she was the girl who saved him at the bottom of the cliff. He lost his memory after the accident and Chloe took him in, caring for him for six months. After six months, he finally regained all his memories and came back to me. He was still so in love with me. The first time he saw me, he rushed forward, pulling me into a desperate embrace, his eyes red. “Stella, I thought I’d never see you again.” I was so grateful to Chloe for taking care of him during that time, I could have fallen to my knees. I decided Liam should transfer half a million dollars to Chloe and buy her family a house in downtown Westwood as a thank you. I had even asked Liam once. “When you lost your memory, you were with Chloe, weren’t you?” Liam just gently held and kissed me. “That was all when I had amnesia. Now that my memory’s back, my heart only beats for you.” I was skeptical at first. Until one day, Liam sent Chloe’s entire family overseas. And he went to a tattoo parlor, getting ‘Stella’s Only’ tattooed over his heart. He’s allergic to tattoo ink, and that night, he ran a high fever. In his feverish daze, he clutched my hand, whispering, “I’m fine. I just want to make you feel secure. If I ever lose my memory again, seeing this tattoo will remind me that I have a wife, and her name is Stella Anderson, and I love her very, very much.” I cried uncontrollably and finally, completely believed him. Whether it was a class reunion or a business dinner, Liam always brought me along. His friends would always tease him, “Liam, you’re so clingy. Can’t be away from your wife for a second. You act like you want to keep her in your pocket!” Liam would just grin, enjoying it. “You guys are just jealous I married such an amazing woman.” Three months ago, we started trying for a baby. But one night, I suddenly had terrible stomach pain. Liam took me to the hospital and told me it was acute appendicitis, requiring surgery to remove my appendix. I didn’t doubt him. I watched Liam sign the consent form, and then I was wheeled into the operating room. But it turned out they didn’t remove my appendix at all. It was my uterus… By the time I got home, night had fallen. As I pushed the door open, I heard Liam on the phone. “…Okay, I’ll be over tonight to be with you and the baby.” “Don’t worry, Stella’s uterus has been removed. She won’t ever get pregnant, so no one can threaten our child’s position.” “I’ve given her my affection and the prestige of being Mrs. Anderson. You have to stay in the shadows, I know it’s unfair to you.” “Once the baby is born, I’ll arrange for a private adoption, so we can bring the baby into our home as our child.” “Don’t worry, Stella is very kind; she’ll take good care of the baby.” “She’ll never know. Never.” I stood frozen outside the door, my body turning cold. He hadn’t forgotten Chloe at all. He wanted to compensate Chloe, so he got her pregnant; and to make *me* feel secure, he set up this elaborate scheme to remove my uterus. At first, I fantasized that the doctor made a mistake, or that there were people with the same names, a Liam Anderson and a Chloe Miller. But fantasies are just fantasies; they’re always shattered by reality. Since our past affection was gone, I wasn’t going to play this twisted game of his, where I’m the dutiful wife and she’s his secret obsession. I turned and left, hailing a cab… At the Civil Registry Office, the clerk verified my ID. “Miss Stella Anderson, are you sure you want to change your name to Cora?” I nodded. “Yes.” “Reason for the name change?” “I just don’t like my old name anymore. I felt like changing it.” An adult changing their name doesn’t need anyone’s approval. The clerk quickly processed it. “Your new name will be official in seven business days.” “Thank you.” I’d just left the Registry Office when I ran straight into Liam. He grabbed me, looking frantic. “Stella, where did you go? Your phone was off! I was worried sick!” Behind him, a group of police officers followed. One of them even joked, “Well, your wife’s found. You can relax now, right?” Another officer spoke directly to me. “Your husband was genuinely worried about you. When you disappeared, he looked like he was losing his mind. The entire precinct was out looking for you. Good thing there’s surveillance footage; we saw you at the Registry Office.” Liam asked me, “Stella, what were you doing at the Registry Office?” I said calmly, “Nothing much. Just updating some information.” “The police pulled up surveillance footage earlier and saw you went to the hospital today. Are you feeling unwell?” I looked up at this man who claimed to love me more than his own life. Why was he so worried about me, yet still involved with Chloe? Was it because she saved his life that he felt obligated to commit to her? Or had he genuinely fallen for Chloe during those six months? And now, even with his memory restored, his feelings for her lingered? “Stella, why aren’t you saying anything?” I gently pushed him away, my voice flat. “No, I’m not unwell. I just had my blood type checked.” “Why would you get your blood type checked?” “So I can donate blood easily in the future, if someone needs it.” A huge weight lifted off Liam’s shoulders. “That’s our Stella, always so kind, always thinking about donating blood and saving lives.” Back home, Liam seemed even more clingy. While driving, he’d hold the steering wheel with his left hand, and my hand with his right. It was the same at dinner; he’d rather clumsily use a fork with his left hand than let go of my hand.

I said, “Let go, it’s inconvenient.” But Liam held tighter. “I won’t let go. I’m afraid if I do, I’ll lose you.” I sighed. He was just trying to reassure me, but he probably never imagined – His words would become a chilling prophecy. Seven days later, I would completely shed my identity, officially embrace my new name, and start a brand new life. …And leave him for good. After dinner, Liam sat with me on the couch, watching a reality show. He peeled grapes and placed them all in a crystal dish, handing them to me. Suddenly, his phone rang. He pulled out a few tissues to wipe his hands, then guiltily went out to the balcony to answer the call. When he returned, he lightly kissed my cheek. “Honey, something urgent came up at work. I have to go.” It was Chloe, wasn’t it? Calling him to come be with her and the baby. Even though I was prepared, hearing him lie directly to my face still stung my heart. I nodded. “Go ahead.” Liam hugged me. “Be a good girl and stay home tonight. I’ll be back tomorrow morning.” “Okay.” Liam grabbed his jacket and practically ran out of the house, driving away. And I, on an impulse, opened my tablet and launched an app. This app was linked to Liam’s dashcam, allowing me to see his car’s real-time status. His car was driving normally on the road leaving our house, but his voice on the phone came through clearly: “…I’m on my way. Just a little longer.” Chloe’s voice was playfully coy. “Stella didn’t notice, did she?” “Don’t worry, she won’t.” “Then tonight… shall we do something exciting?” Liam’s breathing noticeably quickened, his voice husky. “You’re still pregnant.” Chloe’s voice was so sweet it could drip honey. “When we went for the prenatal check-up today, didn’t the doctor say the baby’s perfectly fine? And it’s been three months; the baby is stable. Honey, it’s been so long since we’ve been intimate since I got pregnant. I miss you so much…” “My little temptress,” Liam groaned, a dark promise in his voice. “Just wait! I’ll take good care of you tonight!” Liam’s car drove all the way to his company building. It turned out that sending Chloe overseas was also a lie. Chloe had been living in his company building all along. He’d been seeing me every day at home, and her every day at work. I suddenly laughed. People really do laugh when they’re speechless. Liam had woven a beautiful, dreamy bubble, trapping me inside, making me believe I was the happiest woman in the world. But outside that bubble, he had another family, and soon, he’d have a child. I found it utterly meaningless. The car’s engine shut off, and the dashcam should have turned off with it. But a few minutes later, the app flashed a notification: the dashcam was working again. I reopened the app and witnessed a deplorable scene— Liam and Chloe, right there in the car, passionately intertwined, lost in the moment. Chloe’s belly was already slightly rounded, and he had one hand protectively on her stomach while pulling her close with the other. I saw Chloe’s enraptured expression and Liam’s face twisted with desire, and I turned my head and threw up. I felt disgusted. I didn’t care to know how many rounds they went through. All I did was, in the early hours of the next morning, copy all the dashcam footage from the previous night onto a USB drive. Five hours of content, sufficiently “exciting.” It would make a perfect breakup gift, a spectacular end to our decade-long relationship. At nine in the morning, Liam returned. He was carrying a bag of breakfast. “Stella, why are you up so early? Didn’t get enough sleep?” I was on the balcony watering flowers. These were rare Epiphyllum plants I had meticulously cultivated over the years. I’d nurtured them for seven years, and they’d only just bloomed for the first time this year. But I used scissors to cut off the blossoms and threw them into the trash. Liam looked surprised. “Such rare flowers, why did you cut them off?” I said, “Epiphyllum only bloom for a moment. They bloomed last night; there’s no meaning anymore.” “It seems I missed their most beautiful moment. It’s all my fault; I shouldn’t have gone to the company last night. I should have stayed with you.” I smiled faintly. “It doesn’t matter.” Liam hugged me from behind, nuzzling my ear. “Since you’re already awake, should we… continue trying for a baby?” His implication was obvious. I really wanted to ask, “You spent hours in bed with Chloe last night, are you sure you can go for another round now?” But the words died on my lips. It felt pointless. Anyway, I was already planning to leave. No use arguing. “No, I got my period.” Liam’s expression instantly changed. “How can that be? How could you get your period…” Realizing he’d slipped up, he quickly corrected himself. “No, I mean, isn’t it not time yet?” I said, “Maybe it came early.” Liam said nothing, but his face darkened considerably. “Stella, I need to make a call.” He turned and went back to the bedroom. He called a doctor friend. “Stella’s uterus was removed, wasn’t it? How can she still be having a period? Was the surgery successful?” The friend replied with certainty. “The surgery was definitely successful. I’m very sure about that.” “Then why is she bleeding?” “It could be inflammation, or it could be that your intimate life is too intense, causing tears.” Hearing the latter, Liam’s mood immediately brightened. “In that case, it’s possible. Last time Stella and I… ahem, it was quite intense.”

The doctor friend reassured him. “Keep track of her cycle. Around her period, you make sure to be extra ‘attentive’. If she has a small amount of bleeding each time, she’ll never discover the truth.” Liam chuckled. “Alright, I’ll do as you say.” When he came out of the bedroom, I was still tending to my flowers on the balcony. But unlike before, where I meticulously cared for them, gently nurturing each one. Today, I cut off all the blossoms, and then I ripped out the entire plant by its roots, carelessly piling them up. “Stella, you usually cherish these flowers so much. Why did you pull them all out?” I said, “I don’t like them anymore.” “I feel like your mood has been off these past few days.” “It’s just my period. Mood swings are normal.” Just then, Mrs. Davis, our housekeeper, walked by. I called out to her. “Mrs. Davis, please throw out this pile of trash later.” “Ma’am, these uprooted plants?” “Yes, and these flowerpots too. Throw them all away.” The next morning, Liam told me, “Stella, you haven’t been in a good mood lately, so I booked you a trip. Why don’t you go away for a few days?” I calculated the time; my new name would become official in five days. So I asked, “How many days?” “Three days,” Liam said. “It’s just the next town over, very close. I wouldn’t feel comfortable with you going too far alone.” I agreed. “Okay.” That afternoon, Liam’s driver came to pick me up. “Mrs. Anderson, I’ll take you to the airport.” I didn’t say anything, letting the driver take me. At the airport, the driver watched me through security before hurrying away. Outside the departure lounge, the driver called Liam. “Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Anderson is on the plane.” Liam grunted. “Wait there. Chloe’s parents’ flight is about to land. Pick them up and take them home. Be polite.” “Yes.” After the driver left, I found an excuse to leave the boarding gate. I stood in a hidden spot and watched Chloe’s parents emerge from the arrival gate. I saw the driver eagerly rush over to help with their luggage, respectfully ushering them into the car, busily loading their bags into the trunk. I hailed a taxi. “Follow that car.” After I left, Liam went to pick Chloe up and brought her home. When the driver returned with Mr. and Mrs. Miller, Chloe joyfully rushed to them. “Mom, Dad, I finally get to see you!” Liam respectfully opened the car door for Mr. and Mrs. Miller and then poured them tea. His deferential attitude made him look exactly like a devoted son-in-law. Liam apologized. “Uncle, Aunt, because Stella is still here, I had to send you abroad first. I apologize for the inconvenience.” Mr. Miller chuckled. “It’s alright, you arranged for someone to travel the world with us. We had a great time.” “I’m glad to hear that.” Mrs. Miller said, “Chloe is already pregnant. Why are you still calling us ‘Uncle’ and ‘Aunt’?” Liam quickly corrected himself. “Dad, Mom.” “Ah! That’s better!” The whole family laughed happily. Chloe clung intimately to Liam’s arm throughout, radiating a sweet, demure charm. She instructed Mrs. Davis. “Mrs. Davis, please prepare the guest room for my parents.” Mrs. Davis nodded. “Yes, Mrs. Anderson.” I watched silently. Liam’s affair was something I had already known. But Mrs. Davis’s attitude was the final straw. Even the housekeeper knew about Liam and Chloe, calling her “Mrs. Anderson.” She was clearly familiar with Mr. and Mrs. Miller; their arrival didn’t surprise her at all! Mrs. Davis was someone I had hired myself. Because Mrs. Davis had a disabled son, I had even tripled her salary. I treated her like family, inviting her to eat with us, and even bringing her on our family vacations. And now, even Mrs. Davis was keeping secrets from me… I felt a sharp pain in my chest, as if a thousand needles were piercing me. I doubled over, unable to stand steady. The nauseous feeling rose again, and I started gasping for breath, tears blurring my vision. I accidentally bumped into the wind chime by the door. Ding-a-ling— The wind chime tinkled. Liam reacted almost instantly, shouting, “Who’s out there?!” He yanked the door open and rushed out, but it was silent outside. There was no one there. Chloe walked over, asking suspiciously, “What’s wrong, Liam?” Liam shook his head. “I just heard the wind chime by the door, and thought someone was eavesdropping.” Chloe also looked around, then let out a light laugh. “You’re too jumpy, aren’t you? Wind chimes ring whenever there’s a breeze, what’s so strange about that?” Liam frowned. “Maybe.” The driver also said, “Mr. Anderson, don’t worry. I personally watched Mrs. Anderson go through the boarding gate. She should be on the plane by now.” Liam still felt uneasy and called my phone. A robotic female voice announced: “The number you have dialed is switched off.” Hearing this, Liam finally relaxed completely. “It seems I was just too tense.” He put his arm around Chloe and they sat back on the couch, the door automatically closing. Behind the closed door, in the corner of the wall, my hand holding the phone was trembling slightly. I covered my mouth and nose, slowly retreating from the house. I hailed a taxi and gave the address of a hotel. The driver asked me, “Miss, why are you crying? Did you have a fight with your husband?” I wiped the tears from my face and shook my head. “No fight.” Indeed, there was no need to fight anymore. Chloe was pregnant, Liam was already calling her parents ‘Mom’ and ‘Dad’, and even Mrs. Davis called Chloe ‘Mrs. Anderson’. They were the family.

I was just a fool in everyone’s eyes. At the hotel, I slept. Estimating when the plane would be about to land, I finally turned on my phone. Sure enough, a few minutes later, Liam’s call came through. “Baby, did you land safely?” “Yes, I’m at the hotel.” “Good. Have a great time. I’ll pick you up from the airport when you get back.” “…Okay.” After hanging up, I went to a bank. I withdrew all the money from my accounts in cash, then went to a department store and bought a suitcase, along with some change of clothes. Then, I took the suitcase back to the hotel, ready to pick up when I left. After packing the things I needed for my departure, I thought of my cat, who had been boarded at the vet clinic due to ringworm. It was when Liam and I first met, because we found this dying stray kitten together. We took the kitten to the vet for treatment, and it took three months for it to fully recover. When we picked it up, he said, “Stella, from now on, we’re its mom and dad. You give it a name.” At that time, I was only 18, unexpectedly thrust into cat-motherhood. And he’d effectively branded me as ‘the mother of his son’. Later, I learned that Liam had liked me for a long time. He had intentionally placed that stray kitten on my daily route to school, just waiting for me to find it. When I confronted him, Liam complained somewhat helplessly, “I kept trying to ‘accidentally’ run into you, but you treated me like I was invisible. I had to resort to this last-ditch effort. What could I do? I love you so much; I can’t imagine anyone else.” You couldn’t imagine anyone else? That wasn’t true. Besides me, you had Chloe. You loved me, but you loved her too. In your mind, you gave me affection and status, and her the child, seemingly fair. But Liam, I’m not a pushover. If the love you give isn’t pure anymore, I’d rather not have it. You don’t have to be constantly on edge, hiding things from me, and I’ll have my peace and freedom. I went to the vet clinic and saw the little cat. The vet smiled and asked, “How come the cat’s dad isn’t with you? You usually come together.” I said calmly, “He’s busy.” “Oh.” The vet said, “The cat’s ringworm has completely healed. You can take him home today.” But I said, “I don’t plan on taking him. Could you please find a reliable adopter for him?” “Are you planning to have children?” “Why do you ask?” The vet’s smile was a little bitter. “Many cats and dogs here are like that. Their owners plan to start a family, so they decide not to keep pets and leave them here for adoption.” Yes, I was going to have a child soon. But it wasn’t mine. I was actually a little reluctant to let him go. After all, I had raised the kitten for so many years; we had a bond. But if I was leaving, the cat would be difficult to take with me. Plane cargo travel is too long; I was afraid something might happen to him. “Please, help me find an adopter as soon as possible.” “Oh, by the way, a young lady came in today and played with the cat for a while. She seemed to really like him. I’ll contact her and ask.” The vet contacted the person, who immediately expressed great willingness to adopt the cat. She said she’d come pick him up now. I waited at the vet clinic for a while and met the adopter. She was a very sweet and innocent young girl, and she genuinely loved the cat. I agreed and even gave the girl some extra money. She didn’t want to take it. “I’m just adopting him; I can’t take your money. Please take it back.” But I insisted on pressing the money into her hand. “The cat is getting older, and he has a genetic condition. He’ll need medical care in the future, so this money is for his future vet bills.” The girl finally accepted it, thanked me, and left with the cat. My phone chimed with a message. \[Liam: Baby, did you have fun today? I miss you so much.] I sneered. I replied directly: \[Then I’ll fly back to you now. Pick me up at the airport in three hours.] Liam replied quickly: \[No, don’t let me disrupt your trip. Have a good time. I can wait.] I almost scoffed aloud. Men. Your affection is so cheap. You can’t even stand such a small test, yet you pretend to be so deeply in love. \[Liam: Did you take any good pictures? Show me some beautiful photos of my wife.] I searched online for a few pictures of tourist spots, removed the watermarks, and sent them to him. \[Liam: Why is it all scenery, no pictures of my baby?] \[Me: I’m tired. Going to sleep now.] \[Liam: Okay, get some rest. Love you.] I slept at the hotel for three days, resting and planning my next steps. After leaving here, I wanted to visit the Nordic countries to see the Northern Lights, then go to Africa to see the wildlife and savannas. After that, I’d booked a remote island. The island belonged to a small nearby country and couldn’t be bought, so I leased it for a hundred years. That was the home I chose for myself. From now on, I’d live facing the ocean, with the warmth of spring all around me. On the morning of the fifth day, I didn’t check out. Instead, I extended my reservation for two more days. To store my luggage when I left. Then, I took a taxi to the airport. Not long after, the driver arrived. He grinned. “Mrs. Anderson, you’re finally back! Mr. Anderson has been talking about you non-stop these past two days; we were all getting tired of hearing it.” I didn’t say anything, just got into the car. Fake words were enough to hear once; I didn’t want to respond, to avoid hearing more lies. Upon arriving home, everything had returned to normal. It was as if I had never left. Liam gave me a big hug. “Welcome home, honey.” Mrs. Davis also cheerfully said, “Mrs. Anderson, Mr. Anderson instructed me this morning to buy all your favorite ingredients. Today, I’ve cooked all your favorite dishes.” Liam came closer, nuzzling me gently. “They say absence makes the heart grow fonder, and I guess he felt that way. Your period should be over by now, right? Tonight… should we go to bed early?” I pushed him away. “I’m tired.” “You sleep, I’ll do my thing.” He was about to cling to me again, but the next second, the front door was pushed open. Chloe stood outside, looking a little flustered. “Oh, Stella, you’re back?”

I felt the arms around me stiffen instantly. I smiled faintly. “Chloe, long time no see. Why are you suddenly back in the country? Didn’t you like living abroad?” “I…” Chloe stammered. “I just left my bag at home. I’ll grab it and go.” The moment her words fell, a tremendous crash echoed from overhead. The huge crystal chandelier in the villa had come loose, and with a deafening crash, plummeted. In the blink of an eye, Liam darted towards Chloe, yelling “Watch out—”, but it was *my* body that bore the brunt of the impact. I woke up in the hospital. My entire body was wrapped in white bandages; every inch of my skin was in excruciating pain. The nurse said, “You have three fractures and seventeen hairline cracks. And the metal fragments and shattered crystals left countless small wounds. You’ll need to rest for a while.” I asked the nurse, “What’s the date today?” “The 13th.” Good. Tomorrow was the day my new name would become official. I still had one day and one night. I still had time. When Chloe appeared at the doorway, I wasn’t too surprised. I smiled faintly. “Come to see if I’m dead?” Chloe clutched her waist, deliberately thrusting her belly forward. “Stella, you’re really hard to kill. I had my dad loosen all the screws on that chandelier. I can’t believe something so heavy still didn’t finish you off.” “You were so sure Liam would save you?” “Of course.” Chloe said smugly. “Because I’m carrying his child. If I died, he’d be left without an heir.” “So, you also knew about my hysterectomy?” “Hahahaha, not only did I know, but I was the one who gave Liam that idea. But what can I say? He listens to me now. He does whatever I tell him; he’s such a good husband. Stella, thank you for training him so well. The previous generation plants the trees, the later generation enjoys the shade. Eventually, I’ll be the one enjoying the fruits of your labor.” Hearing her voice now made me sick. I pointed towards the door. “Get out.” “Don’t be in such a hurry to kick me out, Stella. There’s still one more act to play out…” I tensed. “What act?” “Since you didn’t die, I can’t become Mrs. Anderson. So this act is one I specifically added for you, you know~” The moment her words fell, Chloe suddenly grabbed my hand and pressed it against her own belly. “Ah— Help!” She collapsed to the floor, struggling in pain. “Stella, I know I was wrong. You can punish me however you want, just please spare my baby…” With a bang, the hospital room door was forcefully pushed open. Liam saw her on the floor, his eyes blazing. “Chloe! Are you okay?” Chloe was on the verge of tears. “Wuwuwu, Liam, I’m in so much pain!” “Doctor! Doctor!” The doctor and nurses quickly arrived. Liam carried Chloe onto a hospital bed and they wheeled her away. He didn’t spare me a single glance the entire time. Two hours later, Liam came. His face was dark, radiating an ominous aura, his voice low. “Stella, why did you push Chloe?” I said, “Shouldn’t you explain what’s going on with the baby in her belly?” “Yes, I did get her pregnant, but that’s no reason for you to try and harm her! She’s pregnant. If something went wrong, that’s two lives lost!” I closed my eyes. “She told you I pushed her?” “Could she have deliberately fallen herself? She’s pregnant; she wouldn’t be so reckless.” “Did she lose the baby?” “…No, she didn’t, but she was shaken, and she looked absolutely terrified.” I turned my face away, not wanting to look at him. “Go take care of them. Don’t just stand there.” Liam sighed, saying softly, “Stella, I know this has been a huge shock for you. But I can promise you, the title of Mrs. Anderson will always be yours. Even if Chloe gives birth to my child, it can’t replace your place in my heart.” “Then what’s Chloe’s place in your heart?” Liam said in a low voice, “…I admit, I did fall in love with her during the time I lost my memory. But after my memories returned, deep down, I still loved you more. I wanted to live a good life with you, but Chloe… I couldn’t let her go either.” So you listened to her “best of both worlds” plan, and removed my uterus? Calling it fair? “Stella, Chloe won’t compete with you. You’ll always be my favorite, my Mrs. Anderson.” Outside, a nurse’s voice called out, “Is patient 34, Chloe Miller’s husband, here?” Liam immediately asked anxiously, “I’m Chloe Miller’s husband. What happened to her?” “Nothing, don’t worry. She just woke up and didn’t see you, so she asked us to help find you.” Liam nodded, looking guilty. “Stella, I’ll go check on her first.” “Yes, go ahead.” “Get some rest. Chloe can’t be without me right now. I’ll have to stay with her tonight so she can sleep. I’ll come back to accompany you tomorrow morning.” “Okay.” Watching Liam’s retreating back, I let out a bitter laugh. There would be no tomorrow. Liam, we’ll never see each other again, not in this life. After Liam left, I called my best friend, Riley. When Riley arrived and saw me, her eyes immediately reddened. “How could the crystal chandelier at home suddenly fall? The workers must have been so careless!” I was calm. I wiped my tears and said, “Riley, I need your help.” “What kind of help? Tell me.” “Tomorrow morning, help me leave.” I told Riley everything that had happened recently. Riley immediately jumped up. “You wait here! I’m going to go call Liam and make him explain himself!” I stopped her. “A man whose heart has changed is just garbage. I don’t want him anymore.” I said, “At seven in the morning, during the nurses’ shift change, there’s a gap in security. Take me out then.” Riley stayed with me in the hospital all night.

At seven in the morning, I changed into the clothes Riley brought, sat in a wheelchair, and Riley pushed me out of the hospital. The moment I got into the car, I felt a sense of lightness I’d never experienced before. I asked Riley to go to the hotel first to pick up the luggage I’d prepared for myself. On the way, following my pre-planned itinerary, I used my new, official name, Cora, to purchase all the plane tickets to the Nordic countries, Africa, and the island. At nine in the morning, the Civil Registry Office opened for the day. I was the first to pick up my new ID card and passport. Then, straight to the airport. I was still recovering, so Riley contacted the airport staff, who escorted me all the way onto the plane. Riley asked me, “Why did you change your name to Cora?” Cora. My new name. In my native tongue, it sounded like ‘heart dead’ – a bitter farewell to my past, and a silent promise to myself that the old ‘me’ was gone forever. Just before boarding, Riley said, “Don’t worry, I won’t breathe a word. Cora, fly high. Go pursue a better life.” As I was going through customs, I received a call from Liam. He was still as anxious as ever. “Stella, where did you go? You’re still injured; how can you just wander off? I’m worried sick!” I just said, “The morning air was nice, so I asked the nurse to push me downstairs for some fresh air.” Liam sighed. “Stella, the chandelier falling yesterday was an accident. I rushed towards Chloe because she was pregnant; my first instinct was to protect the baby. I just…” “Enough. No need to explain. I don’t want to hear it.” Liam said, “What do you want for breakfast? I’ll buy it and bring it to you.” I said, “Could you go home and get something for me?” “Okay, what is it?” “In the living room drawer, there’s an envelope with a USB drive inside. That’s my gift to you.” Liam was delighted. “You prepared a gift for me? Is it a souvenir from your trip?” “You’ll know when you go back and see it.” “Okay, I’ll go back and see it now.” Liam said, “Stella, I’ll definitely treat you doubly well from now on. I’m so happy you prepared a gift for me…” “Liam.” “Hmm, I’m here.” “Never again.” My voice was ethereal, as if from a distant place. Liam didn’t hear clearly. “Stella, what did you say? Hello?” But only the hum of the plane’s engine filled the phone. And a gentle female voice: “Madam, our plane is about to take off. Please turn off your phone. Thank you for your cooperation.” *Beep*— The call was disconnected. I took out the SIM card, snapped it in half, and handed it along with my phone to the flight attendant. “Please dispose of these for me. Thank you.” “Of course.” On the other side, Liam was in a state of immense shock. He hadn’t misheard; that voice on the other end was a flight attendant’s! I boarded a plane? Impossible. I had even prepared a gift for him, which meant I still had feelings for him. Why would I suddenly fly away? The gift… Liam immediately turned and sprinted home. Following my instructions, he finally found the USB drive… Ten hours later, a plane smoothly landed at Oslo International Airport in Norway. The airport had arranged a pick-up, and I was immediately taken to a local hospital.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “298966”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #重生Reborn

His First Love Returned. I Walked Away. I’d been with Julian Hayes for five years, married for three. It was only then I realized how utterly ridiculous my love was, compared to Julian’s first love. I was in the hospital, undergoing an abortion procedure, while he was setting off fireworks across Metropolis, celebrating his first love’s return. Holding the consent form, the moment I signed my name, I finally decided to let Julian go. More importantly, to let myself go. The day Brittany Hayes returned. Fireworks lit up the sky over Metropolis all night, and the entire high society was celebrating her. I scrolled through the vibrant posts on Ins, the explosions outside perfectly mirroring my mood. A complicated, unspeakable emotion welled up inside me. “Ms. Green.” The doctor held out a consent form, placing it in front of me. “If you agree, just sign here.” My face was devoid of expression as I took the form from her hand. The doctor offered another reminder. “Ms. Green, your uterine lining is thin. If you terminate this pregnancy, it might be very difficult to conceive in the future…” The doctor looked at the frail girl before her, a pang of sympathy in her chest. She had witnessed firsthand how desperately I’d tried to have a child over the past three years. She saw the light in my eyes dim bit by bit, and her heart ached for me. But she was an outsider. She couldn’t pass judgment. I stared at the abortion consent form, my heart clenching so hard I could barely breathe. Still, I maintained my composure, thanked the doctor after signing, and she left with a sigh, not saying another word. Silence returned to the ward. A quiet world, starkly contrasted by the vibrant celebration outside my window. I opened SnapChat, scrolling to Julian Hayes’s chat, and saw his latest reply: [Brittany’s back. Let’s not keep the baby.] Julian was my husband, and my benefactor. He was the man who’d brought me out of the impoverished countryside, the perfect gentleman I’d loved and been captivated by my entire life. Julian and I had been together for five years, married for three. Three years ago, it was Julian who told me he wanted a child, a child with me. It was Julian who, with a tender look, asked me, “Will you give me a child?” Julian caressed my stomach. “Here, we’ll nurture the precious fruit of our love.” I’d had a few drinks; liquid courage filled me. I stood on my tiptoes, kissed his lips, and looked at him with adoration. “I will.” Like a shy, wild thing, I lightly nipped at his throat. I actively shed my nightgown, and Julian lifted me into his arms, carrying me to bed. We became one. That night. Julian whispered, “Alice, I won’t let you regret this.” He gently kissed my forehead. “I love you.” I was so incredibly happy then, my dream of marrying the man I loved most had come true. I was Mrs. Hayes. Just as my idealized love seemed to materialize, Brittany Hayes returned. Brittany was the Hayes’s foster daughter, Julian’s younger sister. I’d always thought of them as just siblings. I had no idea. Brittany wasn’t just a sister; she was Julian’s true love from his youth. The one etched into his heart, the regret Julian had to abandon due to concern for his reputation and others’ judgment. Brittany crashed my wedding, overturned my wedding cake, and ripped apart Julian’s and my wedding poster. She screamed, attracting everyone’s attention, wild and utterly shameless. I watched, stunned, as Brittany stood on the rooftop, forcing Julian to choose. “Her or me. You can only pick one.” Brittany yelled, disregarding the Hayes family’s reputation. “If you go through with this wedding today, I’ll jump.” Brittany pointed at me, terrified, and shrieked, “You slut! You seduced my brother while I was abroad! You shameless hussy, you don’t deserve to be my sister-in-law!” “You pauper, don’t think I don’t see through you. You’re just a bitch who used this as an opportunity to climb up. I’m telling you, as long as I’m here, you’ll never have a moment of peace. I won’t let you off easy.” Brittany reduced me to nothing. I couldn’t react. I couldn’t understand why Julian’s sister harbored such malice towards me. Then I heard Mr. and Mrs. Hayes scold Brittany for being childish, then they turned to comfort me. “Don’t worry, we’ll handle her.” Just when I thought Julian would surely take my side, I saw Brittany step into thin air, a single tear falling from her eye. “Brother, if you don’t want me, then I might as well have never existed in this world.” As Brittany teetered on the edge, Mr. and Mrs. Hayes panicked, and Julian, ignoring everyone present, pushed me aside and rushed to her. Julian held Brittany tight, as if she were his entire world. He looked at her with a tenderness that spoke of finally reclaiming a lost treasure. He told Brittany. “It’s off.” “The wedding, it’s off.” He spoke as if afraid of hurting her. “Whatever makes you happy. Anything you say.” I watched my beloved husband abandon me for another girl. He held her close, comforting her with words that felt like daggers to my heart. My chest ached with dull pain. I closed Julian’s chat. Then I saw a message Brittany had sent me a short while ago: a flight ticket and a voice message. Brittany’s voice said: “I heard you’re pregnant. My apologies, but I can’t stand any outsiders in the Hayes family, besides me. Not even a baby.”

Brittany was gone for three years. For three whole years. She wasn’t allowed to return to Metropolis, forced by Mr. and Mrs. Hayes to stay abroad. She was blocked from all news regarding me, yet she still managed to find out my situation. Brittany wouldn’t let me live a carefree life. Because, in her eyes. Julian was hers. Listening to that voice message, I still found it laughable. Laughing at my own foolishness, and at my misplaced sincerity. In the midst of the lively night sky outside my window, the phone in my hand suddenly rang. My heart leaped. Seeing the caller ID, my nose stung, and I pressed answer. It was Julian. Julian’s end was noisy; his voice sounded cheerful, happy. He asked me. “Where are you?” “Brittany’s back, why aren’t you here?” “As my wife, aren’t you being a bit neglectful? Are you still holding a grudge about what happened three years ago?” Julian started explaining on Brittany’s behalf. “Brittany’s still a child. She’s spoiled, and she doesn’t know any better. You’ve suffered so much since you were young, don’t you understand how hard-won your current life is?” He was right. In Julian’s eyes. I was sensible and thoughtful, a girl with a wonderful temperament. Because I knew how difficult my journey had been to get to this point. Because I’d seen the hardships of life, seen children in the slums often go hungry. I naturally understood how precious everything I had today was. But Julian. He wouldn’t understand that I never cared about these material things. All I cared about was Julian. I only cared about Julian, who had been the spring in my desolate world, breathing life into a soul that felt barren. I sniffled, trying to sound as calm as possible. But I couldn’t stop a sob from escaping. I quickly covered my mouth, afraid Julian would hear. Just then, a nurse walked into the room. “Ms. Green, you can head to the operating room now.” My eyes welled up with tears, and a torrential downpour raged in my heart. The storm swept away the few remaining specks of warmth I had shared with Julian. Julian’s and my child was about to go to another world. The only remaining link between us would also disappear. I hated to let it go. I wanted so badly to ask Julian why he was so cruel to me. But then I heard Julian’s voice, tinged with concern, ask me. “Are you sick?” Julian walked a few steps to a quieter spot, and finally, the noise subsided. He seemed to have heard something about ‘surgery’ and instinctively pressed. “What kind of sickness? Why didn’t you tell me?” Julian was about to ask further when someone called out to him. “Bro.” Brittany had followed him, her voice full of complaint. “They’re all bullying me. Come on!” “Make them understand I’m not easily messed with. I have backup!” Brittany clung to Julian, refusing to let go. Julian saw her hugging his arm, and couldn’t bring himself to refuse. A thought crossed his mind: *What could be so urgent for Alice?* *I can go see her after this, it’ll be fine.* Julian agreed with Brittany. “Okay, brother will get revenge for you.” Julian spoke into the phone. “If you’re not feeling well, have Mrs. Gable make you some chicken soup and look after you. I’m busy here, so I can’t talk anymore.” Julian hung up. The noise from his end ceased abruptly. A bitter smile played on my lips. Staring at the disconnected call, the words stuck in my throat – *Can I keep this child?* – ultimately remained unsaid. I followed the nurse into the operating room. Looking up at the fluorescent lights, before the doctor administered the anesthesia, I heard her ask, “Should we notify family?” I shook my head. “No need.” I held onto my last breath. “I don’t have any family.”

As I drifted into unconsciousness, I vaguely felt cold instruments enter my body. I tried to struggle, to keep this child, but only tears fell. The child was like an accident. Coming and going in a rush. When I woke up, the ward had suddenly become noisy. I slowly blinked, looking at Mrs. Hayes sitting by my bedside, her eyes red as she asked, “Such a big thing, why didn’t you discuss it with us?” Julian sat beside Mrs. Hayes. His face was unreadable. Mrs. Hayes hit him again, scolding him, “What kind of husband are you? Your wife is in the hospital having an abortion, and you’re out messing around!” Julian remained silent, letting Mrs. Hayes hit him. I tugged at my dry throat, wanting to tell Mrs. Hayes to stop. But I didn’t have to. “Stop it!” Brittany stood in front of Julian. “She chose to have the abortion herself! What does that have to do with Julian? Who knows what shady things she was doing behind his back! If she didn’t have a guilty conscience, why would she secretly get rid of the baby like this?” Brittany’s words were like a dull knife stabbing into my chest. I looked at her in disbelief. She met my gaze, not an ounce of guilt in her eyes, but rather a righteous indignation. “You tell me.” “Did you cheat?” Brittany reached out to grab my hand. “What did my brother ever do to you that you would do such a thing behind his back, and then let him be swallowed by gossip?” Brittany’s grip was strong. With a slight tug. A searing pain shot through the back of my hand, blood splattering from the torn vein. The IV drip still hanging was roughly pulled out, and I winced in pain. “That’s enough.” Julian called out to Brittany. “Stop causing a scene.” Julian’s gaze fell on the back of my hand. He pressed the nurse’s call button. “She hasn’t recovered yet. Let her rest.” Julian sent Mr. Hayes, Mrs. Hayes, and Brittany away. Brittany refused. Brittany was still throwing a tantrum. But Mrs. Hayes pinched her ear, and the ward finally fell silent amidst Brittany’s wails. Julian watched the nurse arrive, saw her stop the bleeding on my hand, and re-insert the needle. Then he heard the nurse say, with a look of disgust, “Honestly, the things people do these days.” Julian understood the nurse’s sarcasm. But his refined upbringing wouldn’t allow him to argue with a young nurse in such a setting. He saw the nurse out. Closed the door. Pulled up a chair and sat in front of me. He looked at my pale, sickly face, an indescribable feeling in his heart, like damp, heavy cotton stuffing his chest. He felt suffocated. “Alice.” Julian’s hand, hanging by his side, clenched. He looked at the person on the hospital bed. “Explain yourself.” Julian held my medical records. He had read many books, seen countless proposals and contracts. He was a man who had faced many situations, but never before had a scene made him feel so choked up, so breathless, simply by sitting there. It felt as if something incredibly important was slipping from his grasp. “If I hadn’t heard ‘operating room’ over the phone, if I hadn’t sent someone to check on you, how much longer would you have kept it from me?” Julian’s voice was tinged with anger. “Today it’s an abortion. What about tomorrow?” Julian, with his natural air of authority, could exert immense pressure when looking at someone without expression. I looked at him. I couldn’t decipher what Julian was thinking. He was the one who didn’t want this child. He was the one who wanted to give up this child. Now, why was he questioning me? Was it to solidify his position in front of his family, to avoid being seen as the villain?

I was physically and mentally exhausted, and I didn’t want to argue with Julian in this atmosphere. I had already lost the urgency to argue for a definitive answer from Julian, the desperate yearning for his complete sincerity. I answered Julian with silence. Julian felt like he was punching a cotton ball. Just as I was about to close my eyes, he grabbed my chin, his voice deepening. “Tomorrow, are you planning to move out? The day after, are you planning to swallow up Hayes Corp too? What are you thinking?” “Can you stop acting like a mute?” Julian’s presence was heavy. The faint scent of alcohol mixed with a woody base note on him was usually pleasant. Normally. Whenever I smelled Julian’s scent, I always slept soundly. But today, I detected another scent on him. It was Brittany’s perfume. A wave of nausea unexpectedly rose in my stomach. The moment Julian leaned closer, I pushed him away with all my might, clutching the edge of the bed as I started to vomit. “Get away!” I vomited until I felt lightheaded, tears streaming down my face. I hated Julian. “Get away!” My emotions suddenly broke. I had constantly told myself to hold back, told myself that even if I was abandoned, even if I became a stranger to Julian, I should do so gracefully. While Julian and Brittany celebrated, with fireworks lighting up the entire city. Recalling their intimacy, and my child, reduced to a bloody mess under the blade. I hated Julian, deeply, deeply. He could choose not to love me. He could be devoted to Brittany. He could marry any woman in this world. But why did he have to trample on my sincerity? I had only one heart in my life, and Julian had taken it, treated it like a toy, and smashed it to the ground again and again. I witnessed, with my own eyes, how my heart was torn to bloody shreds. How could I not hate Julian? “Get out!” I broke down. I shrieked hysterically at Julian, “Get out!” I saw a rare flash of confusion on Julian’s face, a rare moment of helplessness. I grabbed the flowers and nutritional supplements Mrs. Hayes had brought, all on the bedside table, and hurled them at Julian. “Get out!” I threw everything I could, and when Julian still didn’t react, I finally couldn’t bear it, curling into a ball under the blankets, sobbing like a wounded animal abandoned by the world. Besides crying. It felt like I couldn’t do anything. Couldn’t keep anything. I was so miserable, so miserable. Julian watched me cry, watched me, devoid of my usual composure, throw things at him. His expensive suit was crumpled, stained with water. He was confused for a moment. *What was she making such a fuss about?* *She made a mistake, why is she making a fuss?* Julian looked at her, curled into a ball, sobbing uncontrollably. A sharp pang went through his heart. But he still couldn’t understand why someone who had made a mistake would dare to cry in front of him. He had left the party. He had left his friends, and told his family not to disturb her peace. She wasn’t grateful, but was instead throwing a tantrum at him. “Alice Hayes.” Julian, despite being disheveled, still stood tall, his aristocratic aura strong. “Have I given you too much leeway?” Julian walked to the edge of the bed, abruptly pulled back my blanket. He roughly yanked me out from under the covers. “Who do you think you’re throwing a tantrum at?”

Julian pulled me to face him. He saw the brokenness in my eyes. He looked at me. It was as if he saw the light in my eyes dim, and he paused for a moment, his hands still. As if he was afraid to see me like this. He took a step back. Then, he saw my eyes fixed stubbornly on him, and I said with defiance, “Of course I understand that I have no right to be angry with you.” It wasn’t that I didn’t understand. After Brittany crashed the wedding. I knew that I could never compare to Brittany. And I couldn’t rival Brittany’s presence throughout Julian’s entire childhood and youth. I was late, I missed the best years of Julian. But, I always held onto hope. As long as I stayed with Julian a little longer, as long as I treated him a little better. As long as Julian was willing to let me stay, I would eventually help him move past the past and slowly come to my side. I would always have a chance to enter Julian’s heart, to become the person in his heart. I had always held onto a fragile hope for this marriage, because I always felt that Julian truly cared for me. In the three years without Brittany. Julian would hold an umbrella for me in the rain, and would take me to see the ocean and the snowy landscapes. He would drive from the south side of the city to the north side just because I said I liked a certain dessert, waiting in a long line for me. We had lived like an ordinary couple. Not all of our memories were unpleasant. But then. “Mr. Hayes.” My heart was tearing inch by inch, the broken glass on the floor reflecting years of my own pathetic delusion. “Do you remember the house you prepared in advance for the baby?” From the day Julian decided to have a child, he had looked at countless houses in Metropolis, finally choosing a luxury penthouse apartment perfectly suited for a family. The day he took me to see the house, the weather was bright, and sunlight streamed into the living room. Julian hugged me from behind, his head resting on my neck, breathing warmly. “In the future, this apartment will be our child’s welcome gift.” “It’s the first present Daddy will give her.” Julian said. “I hope it’s a girl, like you – quiet and sweet. I’ll spoil her like a princess.” That day. The sunlight cast Julian’s shadow, his silhouette overlapping mine, like an inseparable, perfect match. My heart filled with sweetness, and I began to imagine. What kind of mother I would be. What kind of father Julian would become. I eagerly awaited this child. I awaited. What I believed was the fruit of Julian’s and my love. I couldn’t wait to tell Julian the good news. For the first time, I disregarded etiquette and rushed into Julian’s office. But I didn’t see Julian, only heard his secretary mention that Julian had gone to pick someone up, his sister was back. Brittany Hayes was back. It hit me like a lightning bolt. I sat frozen on the couch, unable to process anything. By the time I came to my senses, I was already dialing Julian’s number. I wanted to tell Julian. They had a child. They had their own baby. But Julian didn’t answer. I called many times, but he still didn’t answer. I couldn’t find Julian, but on Ins, I saw a post from someone else: Julian and Brittany hugging at the airport. Julian’s face was soft with a gentle smile, looking at Brittany with doting affection. 6. Brittany and he looked like a couple. My heart plummeted. I stood up from the sofa, walked to the office door, and heard the secretary whispering. “Mr. Hayes has always liked his foster sister. It’s just that his parents separated them, believing their relationship would be criticized, which is why they sent her away. Otherwise, how would this country bumpkin have had a chance to climb up?” “If you ask me, I’d prefer his sister too. She’s outgoing and generous, nothing like that pauper, who always looks like death warmed over, as if everyone owes her a million dollars. Ugh!” Julian and I were mismatched. I had always known it. The first time I went with Julian to meet his friends, I was mocked as an uncultured pauper. Some even joked about Julian’s bad taste, saying he ignored the jewel at home to rummage for trash. I had my pride; how could I not care? I looked at Julian, hoping he’d say something for me. Julian just smiled, squeezed my hand, and told me, “Don’t mind them. These people are used to being wild, their words aren’t pleasant, but there’s no malice.” He always knew they were scrutinizing me with malice. He also knew I was constantly the butt of jokes in their circle. But even knowing this. Julian never thought to defend me. It wasn’t that Julian didn’t understand, it was simply that Julian didn’t think it was worth arguing with his friends over. So much so. I thought Julian was just like that. Polite in any situation, for any reason, with anyone. He didn’t like to make things awkward, so I comforted myself, *Julian is just naturally like this.* But then I saw Brittany cause trouble, hitting his good friend’s sister. His good friend, enraged, demanded an explanation, yet Julian, unreasonably, tore into his friend, shielding Brittany in his arms. It was then I realized. Julian wasn’t ignorant, wasn’t incapable, wasn’t against it. It was just that I wasn’t worthy. I wasn’t Brittany, I wasn’t Julian’s exception or special treatment. I didn’t have that privilege, so I naturally didn’t receive Julian’s doting affection. I looked at Julian, his expression flickering with a hint of guilt when I mentioned the baby. But he quickly composed himself and asked her, “What do you want to say?” I didn’t want to say anything, nor did I want to argue anymore. My voice was very soft, my expression very calm. “Could you come with me to see the house again?” My eyes were still red-rimmed, my throat felt ripped, hoarse beyond recognition. “I prepared a gift for the baby there. I want to see it, if that’s okay?” Julian was about to agree. His phone, resting nearby, rang. It was Brittany. Brittany had recorded a voice reminder on his phone herself. So, when the phone rang, Julian instinctively reached to hang up, but I interrupted him. “Aren’t you going to answer?” My expression was calm, tear streaks still on my face, making me look fragile and pitiful. Julian felt a flicker of guilt. “It’s nothing major.” “Brittany was just worried about you,” Julian always instinctively defended Brittany when she was mentioned. “She’s a bit wild, but she truly has no ill intentions.” “Don’t mind her.” Julian looked at me. “Her words today were only because she didn’t want me to be blamed by the family, and besides, you were the one who made the mistake in this matter.” Julian’s protectiveness was obvious. How could I not understand? I silently looked at Julian, making him more and more uneasy. When Brittany’s call rang again, he picked up his phone, not daring to look at me. 7 “I’ll take this. Maybe it’s something from home.” He didn’t wait for my response, grabbing his phone and stepping out of the ward. It was late at night. The corridor was quiet. The ward door was left ajar, a tiny crack letting the white light from the corridor reflect into the room. Like a long string, it carried Julian’s voice from the other end. Julian’s tone was reassuring, entirely different from how he spoke to me. His voice was so gentle it could melt butter, and every now and then, soft laughter escaped him. His laughter echoed in my ears, like countless tiny needles piercing my heart, making it ache so much I could barely breathe. Not long after. I saw Julian hang up the phone, but he lingered outside, reluctant to come in. My heart already understood. When Julian finally came in after a few minutes, I, being the understanding one, spoke up for him. “Go.” Julian lowered his head in shame, wanting to explain, but feeling that any words would be futile. He simply picked up his now-damp jacket and told me, “I’ll be back soon.” Julian walked to the door, then paused. “When you’re discharged,” He spoke as if out of guilt, seeking to compensate. “I’ll go with you.” Julian left. The ward fell silent again. The previous liveliness vanished. I looked at the mess on the floor, propped myself up from the bed. I picked up my phone and dialed the number of Zara, the sister who had left our village with me years ago. The call connected quickly. Zara’s gentle voice came through. “Sweetheart, what’s wrong?” The moment I heard Zara’s voice. All the unresolved, painful emotions hidden deep in my heart came flooding in, overwhelming me. They turned into a torrent of tears that streamed down my face. I tried hard to stifle my sobs, but I couldn’t hold back, bursting into desperate tears. “Sis…” I choked for a long time, calling her, “Sister, I don’t want to stay in this city anymore.” “Can… can you take me away?” Before. Zara had come looking for me. Zara’s mother was bought by Zara’s father for $4,000, and that’s how Zara came into the world. Zara’s mother hated her. But she also constantly instilled in her the idea that men were untrustworthy. This led Zara to develop the notion from a young age that she had to escape the countryside. And the year she escaped. I helped her. After I received a scholarship and left the countryside, I studied desperately, participated in competitions. I worked part-time whenever I could, and later saved a sum of money. The day I took Zara away, I gave her all my savings, telling her to live a good life. At that time, Zara said. “If one day, you need me, I will give you everything.” Zara never approved of the unequal love between Julian and me. So, she had tried to persuade me. But I was deeply in love, I couldn’t hear or see anyone else but Julian. It was my own fault. I cried, asking Zara, “Can I still go with you?” Zara agreed without hesitation. “I’ll come pick you up right away.” When she learned I had an abortion and Julian was still with Brittany, she was furious. “He’s an animal!” Still, she respected my wishes. After I said I wanted to say a proper goodbye to Julian, Zara agreed. “Whenever you’re ready, I’ll take you.” Since Brittany returned. Whenever I opened Ins, I always saw Julian and Brittany attending various events together. Julian broke his promise. Even on the day I was discharged, he didn’t spare a single moment to visit me. Even though I knew Julian wouldn’t come. Every time a doctor or nurse opened that door, I would instinctively look outside. Instinctively hope, then retract my gaze, suppressing the disappointment in my heart, pretending nothing had happened. 8 The day I left the hospital. The Hayes household was bustling. Mr. and Mrs. Hayes were there. Brittany sat at the dining table. Seeing me, she said impatiently. “Finally, she’s back.” Brittany’s tone was accusatory. “It just goes to show, country people have no manners. She knows we’re having a family dinner today, but she drags her feet, making everyone wait for her.” Mrs. Hayes raised a hand and slapped Brittany. “If you can’t say anything nice, shut up. Do you want to go abroad for another few years of ‘further education’?” Brittany felt wronged by the slap. “Mom!” Then, seeing Mrs. Hayes unresponsive, she went to tug on Julian, who had just stepped out of the elevator. “Bro, Mom always hits me when I talk. Aren’t you going to do something?” Julian gently patted Brittany’s hand, asking what happened. Then he looked up and saw me, standing by the door with my luggage. Julian’s expression froze, and his hands stilled. His eyes flickered. He finally remembered that today was my discharge day. Mrs. Hayes had even reminded him that morning to pick me up. But, because Brittany said her stomach hurt that morning, he panicked and called the family doctor to examine her. The doctor checked her thoroughly. But couldn’t find any reason. Later, Brittany hugged his arm and pouted, saying, “I probably just didn’t eat. I’m hungry.” Brittany swayed his arm. “Brother, you’re not mad at me, are you?” Julian was a little annoyed. But seeing Brittany was fine, he ultimately sighed in relief. More than being angry, Julian cared more about Brittany’s health. So, with that delay, it was already noon, and I had returned by myself. Julian’s heart skipped a beat. He was actually afraid that I would see him being too close with Brittany. He immediately withdrew his hand from Brittany’s shoulder and walked to me. “I was just about to pick you up.” Julian explained. “Why didn’t you wait for me?” Mrs. Hayes saw the scene and chimed in. “Julian had the housekeeper buy all your favorite dishes this morning. You must be tired from your hospital stay, come sit down. Let’s have a nice family meal.” I looked at the interaction between Julian and Brittany, my disappointment deepening. I couldn’t believe Julian didn’t notice Brittany’s constant hostility towards me, nor did I believe he was unaware of her cold sarcasm. He wasn’t unaware. He simply didn’t want to see it, nor did he want to displease Brittany for my sake. In Julian’s heart, the one he truly loved and cared about most was only Brittany. A bitter smile touched my lips, and I didn’t respond to Julian. I didn’t wait for him not because the doctors were about to leave, and I’d have to wait until the afternoon. Instead, I turned to Mrs. Hayes and said, “Okay, thank you, Mom.” I followed Mrs. Hayes to the dining table. Julian’s expression stiffened slightly. He couldn’t describe the feeling in his heart, so he just followed. Brittany, however, rolled her eyes at me. “So dramatic.” I sat at the dining table, looking at the array of dishes, all of which had cilantro, which I detested. My forks were in my hand, but I didn’t know where to start eating. Julian had already picked up a shrimp and placed it in my bowl. “Eat more. I remember you love shrimp.” Julian’s polite and attentive gesture made everyone at the table pause their movements. Mrs. Hayes looked at Julian with an unreadable expression. Even Mr. Hayes’s face showed displeasure. Only Julian was oblivious. “Why aren’t you eating?” “No appetite?” Julian maintained his remaining gentlemanly demeanor, smiling at me. I stirred the white rice in my bowl, then placed the shrimp on the side plate, my voice very faint. “Mr. Hayes, I’m allergic to shrimp.” “…….” Julian was momentarily at a loss. Brittany was quicker, snatching the shrimp from the side plate. “You’re so fussy. I love shrimp. I’ve loved it since I was little.” 9 “And I’ve never seen anyone get an allergy. A country bumpkin, so many demands, she really thinks she’s a socialite.” Brittany chewed on the peeled shrimp. Her mockery of me was undisguised. I was used to her targeting me like this. I watched Brittany eat her shrimp, the bitterness in my mouth intensifying. I suddenly didn’t want to tolerate it anymore. “Brittany Hayes.” I put down my forks. “Whether I’m a country woman or not, it’s not for you to judge.” “In this family, you should at least call me sister-in-law. You don’t even know basic etiquette,” My voice was very calm. “Do you want people to say that the Hayes family has a bad reputation, or poor upbringing?” Brittany couldn’t stand it when people called me her sister-in-law. In her eyes, Julian belonged only to her. Never to anyone else. As soon as she heard those words, she couldn’t help but explode. She picked up her forks and hurled them at me across the table. “You country bumpkin, what right do you have to make me call you sister-in-law?” “What right do you have to be my brother’s wife, to be my sister-in-law? What do you think you are?” Brittany grabbed the tablecloth, flipping the entire table over. “You’re just a cheap woman, climbing into my brother’s bed with dirty tricks! Do you really think my brother cares about you, or that my parents genuinely consider you their daughter-in-law?” Seeing Brittany about to go even crazier. Mrs. Hayes sharply reprimanded her. “Shut up!” Brittany still wouldn’t stop. “My parents only used you to silence outside rumors! My brother just used you to vent his loneliness and boredom because I wasn’t here! In the end, you’re nothing but a tool!” Brittany’s voice was sharp. It echoed throughout the Hayes’s living room. Mr. and Mrs. Hayes’s faces were ashen with rage, and Julian’s face turned pale. Only I remained, sitting in my seat, stained with the soup that had splattered when Brittany threw the forks. The soup dripped down my forehead, mixing with my fringe. I looked up at Brittany, calmly picking up my water glass that had rolled a few times on the floor. Then I opened the cap and splashed it at Brittany. But. The scalding tea didn’t land on Brittany. The moment Julian noticed my movement, he instinctively moved to protect Brittany. Julian held Brittany tightly, the hot water scalding his back. He hissed in pain, then turned, furious, to scold me. “Are you crazy?!” Julian stood in front of Brittany. “She’s still just a child, she doesn’t know any better. Don’t you know any better?!” Julian listed my faults. “Are you going to argue so much with a child? Are you even fit to be her sister-in-law?! Have you forgotten basic etiquette and manners?!” I looked at Julian, then at Brittany, who was hiding behind him, smirking triumphantly at me. Suddenly, I felt so tired. It wasn’t that I hadn’t fought for it. Before, when I learned about Julian and Brittany’s past relationship, I had also fought. I told Julian. From now on, I would be with him, I would be his ultimate support. I wouldn’t let Julian be caught in a dilemma again. Whenever Julian needed me, I would bravely fight for him. At that time, Julian looked at me, and his eyes, too, held a light. Julian’s eyes, too, were filled with starlight. He smiled, pinching my cheek. “What foolish talk. Do I really need you to protect me? Since you’re with me, you’re my person. No one out there can bully you. From now on, I’ll always stand by you.” 10 In the beginning. Julian used to protect me. In college, some people mocked her for being a country bumpkin, an uncultured pauper. They told me to go back to the countryside and never come out. At that time, I was ridiculed, isolated, and mocked. It was Julian who stood in front of me, just as he stood in front of Brittany today, shielding me behind him, telling those people, “When you belittle others, you’re already the ones without class.” Julian appeared before me like a guardian. I looked at Julian, and for the first time, felt a ripple in my calm heart. For the first time, just looking at someone, made my heart flutter. Julian told those people. “She is part of the Hayes family, she is my person. When you try to bully her, consider if you can afford to offend the Hayes family in Metropolis.” The Hayes family of Metropolis. Renowned. Who wouldn’t know the Hayes family? Those people quickly apologized and fled. I stood there, at a loss, until Julian gripped my shoulders, making me look up. He told me not to be afraid, to bravely accept everything. It was Julian who whispered in my ear. “As long as I’m here, you don’t have to be afraid.” As long as he was there. I wouldn’t have to fear anything. I looked at Julian, who was tightly shielding Brittany. I wondered if he could still remember how he once protected me in his arms, treating me like a treasure no one could bully. My chest ached. I still felt sad because of Julian. I was still that unaccomplished girl. Still the girl from the village, who revolved entirely around Julian. I looked at Julian. Amidst his anger, I asked him, “Then what should I do?” I stood up. The spot where I was hit was red. It made me look especially disheveled, causing Julian to falter for a moment. How could he have forgotten that I had just been discharged? How could he scold me like this? Guilt flooded his heart. Meeting my gaze, he instinctively averted his eyes. “Forget it.” Julian couldn’t look at her. “Don’t let it happen again.” He was afraid to look at me, afraid to face me. He suddenly acted like a fugitive, dropping a quick, “You women’s drama is such a pain.” Then. Julian walked away without looking back. Brittany, seeing Julian didn’t help her continue to scold me, stomped her foot in frustration. She glared fiercely at me: “Don’t get too smug. My brother will always be mine, and you’ll never take him!” “Bro.” Brittany kicked a chair, expressing her anger, and chased after Julian. In the dining room. Only I, Mr. Hayes, and Mrs. Hayes remained. Mr. Hayes was a man of few words, but Mrs. Hayes comforted me. “Brittany didn’t do well, it’s our fault for not raising her properly. I’ll talk to Julian too. Don’t take it too much to heart.” Seeing no reaction from me. Mrs. Hayes took out a card. “You’ve been wronged. Take this and buy yourself something nice.” Mrs. Hayes was generous. Every time Brittany hit me or did something outrageous, Mrs. Hayes would give me a card. Over the years, the cards I stored in my cabinet could almost make a stacking game. I looked at Mrs. Hayes’s beautiful hands, her jeweled nails sparkling. Those were hands I had never seen in the slums. Beautiful, delicate, so captivating I couldn’t look away. Completely different from the women in the slums, the women she had seen since childhood were rough, tanned, not allowed to eat at the table. How could they be like Mrs. Hayes, radiant and elegant, like a queen out of a fairy tale? But a queen, after all, was not my mother. I took the card and thanked Mrs. Hayes. I assured her I wouldn’t take these things to heart. I saw relief and a sigh of contentment in Mrs. Hayes’s eyes, but no pity.

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The day Julian’s plane supposedly crashed into the ocean, I shattered. I jumped into the churning water after it, only to be rescued and then told it was just an April Fool’s joke. Before I lost consciousness, I heard the taunting voice of his mistress. “Julian, sweetie,” Chloe purred, “your wife, Aria, is absolutely madly in love with you. She’d go completely ballistic if she knew you were playing this trick on her, wouldn’t she?” He chuckled, a light, dismissive sound. “Go ballistic? Aria’s been so quiet, like a mouse since the baby. Just don’t let her find out about this, alright? This was just my final test of her devotion.” Everyone around them laughed, promising they wouldn’t breathe a word. I lay on the stretcher, unable to shed another tear. Julian didn’t know it, but this was my last chance for him, too.My love for him was officially zeroed out. I woke up in a hospital bed, a perfectly peeled apple sitting on the bedside table. Usually, when I got sick, Blake never even bothered to show up. He’d just send his assistant with a pile of expensive supplements. Seeing the indifferent expression on my face, he picked up a slice of apple and held it to my lips. “Happy I didn’t die, are we?” I turned my head away, catching a glimpse of a faint mark on his neck. My voice was calm. “Blake, let’s get a divorce.” His hand paused, then he popped the apple slice into his mouth. He crunched on it loudly, his eyes filled with mockery. Then, right in front of me, he made a call. Soon after, his assistant brought Leo in. Leo had grown taller in the few months I hadn’t seen him. But he was still distant from me. Less than a month after I gave birth to Leo, Mr. Smith took him away. I only got to see him on holidays when we had dinner at the family estate. I knew exactly why Blake had brought Leo here. In the past, whenever he’d gone too far with his antics outside, and I’d stew in silence, refusing to speak to him, he’d send our son to placate me. I can’t count how many times he’d pulled that stunt. But now, that old trick of his? It no longer works on me, not anymore. Seeing Leo, who had rounded out a bit, I didn’t smile. Leo frowned in displeasure, a spitting image of a miniature Blake, and even the way he said my name carried Blake’s dismissive tone. “Zara Clark, you’re still so uptight and boring. Daddy, I don’t want to be here. I want to go back and have Ms. Riley play building LEGOs with me…” Ms. Riley? No wonder he never called me Mom. He’d already found someone else to be his mother. Blake’s eyes turned icy. Leo obediently shut his mouth and burrowed into my arms. “Daddy was mean to me!” Usually, I’d defend Leo, but this time, I pushed him away. “Go tell your Ms. Riley about it.” Those two faces, so eerily identical, froze. I continued, my voice firm. “Blake Smith, I’m serious about the divorce. I’m not joking.” A flicker of anger crossed his eyes, quickly turning into a sneer on his lips. “You’re playing with fire, Zara. Push me too far, and you’ll regret it. You’ll never see our son again.” No wonder he hadn’t reacted when I first mentioned divorce. He must have thought I was just playing games. I remembered last year, when he’d gotten caught up in a scandal with a minor celebrity who ended up in the hospital with a serious internal bleeding incident that landed her in the ER, and I tried to divorce him. He locked me in a room and didn’t let me see Leo for six months. That’s when I finally learned my lesson. It was also then that I finally realized I couldn’t love him anymore. “Blake, I’m moving out of the Smith house once I’m discharged.” I stated again, my gaze locked directly with his. Noticing that I wasn’t just throwing a fit, his expression turned grim. “You want a divorce? Let’s see if you even have the guts to pull it off.” Only after he left with Leo did I pick up my phone and text that unfamiliar number. “I’ve thought it over. I’ll leave after the dance competition next week.” After being discharged from the hospital, I returned to the Smith family estate to pack a small bag, then headed straight to the dance studio. Since I’d made my decision, I didn’t want any more tangled connections with Blake. The moment I walked in, I was met with a chorus of complicated stares.

“Clara, what did you do to upset Mrs. Sterling?” My colleague, Sarah, pulled me aside, her voice filled with worry. “She not only snatched your competition spot but also got the boss to fire you.” Mrs. Sterling? My gaze followed hers to the elegant figure on the stage. Sienna was dressed lavishly, looking every inch the wealthy socialite. I almost forgot, she always introduces herself as “Mrs. Sterling” at the dance studio. Right now, she stood with her chin high, basking in the envious stares of the crowd, when suddenly her eyes found me in the shadows. “Clara, I’m truly sorry, but my dance skills are probably more suited for the competition than yours. So, the boss gave me the only spot for the dance championship.” I didn’t care how much she messed around before, but this competition meant everything to me. I absolutely couldn’t give it to her. “Sienna, what exactly is your ‘skill level’? Is your dancing only good enough to perform for men? And do you dare tell everyone your real identity?” She used to be just an online influencer, an aspiring streamer who only got into this high-end dance studio through Julian. She’d always been so careful around me before. Now, she dared to act so brazenly? I couldn’t stand it. Sienna’s face flushed crimson, unable to utter a word, tears welling in her eyes. Just then, a hand wrapped around her waist from behind. Julian looked at me, his gaze intensely oppressive. “And who are *you* to ask?” My lips moved, but a bitter taste filled my throat. His mother died because of me. Nine years of marriage, even bearing him a son, wasn’t enough to repay that debt, that life lost. Once, when he was drunk, he’d gripped my throat and hissed: “Clara, you married into this family to atone, not to live a life of luxury. Don’t you ever forget your place!” Seeing me lost in thought, Julian leaned closer, lowering his voice. “Clara, if you want to keep this job, you’ll obediently move back to our house.” Only then did I realize that he was the “boss” Sienna had mentioned. He gave my competition spot to Sienna and then threatened the studio owner to fire me. He was forcing me to bow, to take back my words about divorce. Seeing my unwavering resolve, Julian’s lips curled into a cold sneer. “So, your wings have grown strong, have they? You think you can just fly away from my control? Then I’ll break those wings, and we’ll see how you fly.” He made a phone call. A SnapChat message from Chloe, my best friend, popped up almost instantly. “Clara, I think I messed up. I just got promoted last month, and now my supervisor called me into the office, saying they’re letting me go…” My lips pressed into a tight line. I went to pack my things. As I left, I heard Sienna’s mocking voice. “Clara, you’re still relying on a man, just like me. And here I thought you had so much backbone, so much independence?” My hand, gripping the handle of my suitcase, paused. I refused to back down. “Did you forget, Sienna? He and I aren’t divorced yet. He’s still my husband…” Suddenly, Julian seized my arm. “Clara, who gave you the guts to bully Sienna right in front of me? And those warnings I gave you, have you forgotten all of them?” My heart felt like it had been pierced by a needle. Since we got married, he had never publicly acknowledged me as his wife. Outsiders only knew he was married, and he was never short of beautiful women by his side. Since I couldn’t participate in the dance competition anyway, there was no need to wait another week to leave. Thinking this, I felt a slight sense of relief. Before heading back to our house, I stopped by a lawyer’s office and printed out a divorce agreement. Then I sent a text message to that particular number. “No need to wait a week. I’ll be gone in two days.”

Back at Dominic’s sprawling estate, I sat on the sofa, lost in thought. Dominic rarely came home this early. He stood by the foyer, his gaze locking with mine. It was like looking at my past self. After work, I’d sit in the living room, waiting until deep into the night, just for my husband to finally come home. I’d smile, stepping forward, attentively taking off his coat and even his shoes and socks. “Honey, are you tired today? I learned a new massage technique, do you want me to…?” For years, beyond teaching at the dance studio, my entire world revolved around him. A constant cycle, yet I never received even a flicker of warmth from him. Now, stepping away and looking back as an outsider, I realized how incredibly foolish I’d been. Seeing my lack of reaction, Dominic frowned. “What are you thinking about? Running away?” I found it almost amusing. “If I wanted to run, what would you do?” He strode towards me, urgently pushing me onto the sofa, expertly changing the subject. “You don’t like our son? Then let’s have a daughter. Daughters are sweeter, they can keep you company. Maybe then things will be better for you here.” When I first married into his family, the household staff saw how coldly Dominic treated me. They took my gentle nature as a sign of weakness, piling all the unpleasant chores onto me. In those years, I deeply loved Dominic and never once complained to him. He saw my predicament but simply didn’t care. My thoughts snapped back to the present as my nightgown was torn away. His kisses landed on my skin. Fierce and dominating, carrying a clear sense of punishment. No matter how he tried to provoke me, I felt nothing. It turned out, when you no longer loved someone, your body just… shut down. Dominic seemed to lose interest and got off me. “Amelia, I know your body. This isn’t how you react.” He gripped my chin, scrutinizing me. “Tell me, have you been with another man?” Dominic was a notorious womanizer, but he had a twisted sense of ownership. He couldn’t stand the idea of any woman *he’d touched* being desired by another man. There was a security guard at the dance studio who enjoyed watching me dance. Dominic caught him once, and the studio owner fired him that very day. Dominic even had him arrested on false accusations of harassment. I bit down hard on my lip, then laughed through the humiliation. “Yes, it’s exactly what you’re thinking. I’ve slept with every single man at that dance studio. Are you going to have them all arrested too?” Dominic’s eyes narrowed, his voice rough. “Is that so?” Suddenly, he scooped me up, carrying me towards the bathroom. He actually suspected me! “Since you’re so dirty, then let’s get you cleaned.” He tossed me into the bathtub, aiming the spray nozzle at my face as icy water poured down. Goosebumps erupted all over me. I struggled, but couldn’t push his hand away. Under the shock of the cold water, my PTSD flared. Images of my parents’ plane crash, when I was thirteen, flooded my mind. I trembled uncontrollably, curling into a ball in the corner. Dominic again thought I was faking it. “Amelia, don’t forget why you married me. You’re not here to enjoy life; you’re here to atone!” That same broken record, words he’d spat at me countless times before. It was our usual dynamic. Almost every single word he uttered was laced with malice.

When David saw the vacant look in my eyes, how I was swaying, as if I’d hit my head against the wall, he finally panicked and scooped me onto the bed. “What’s wrong with you? Are you feeling unwell…?” “David, you’ve put me through hell long enough. Let’s just set each other free!” Rage surged through me. I hurled the divorce papers from the nightstand straight at his face. He stared at the signature line, then scoffed, a cold sneer on his lips. “You’re in such a hurry to divorce me. Do you have another man waiting outside?” I bit my lip, refusing to answer. He didn’t press. Tears streamed down my face. Thankfully, after tomorrow, I would finally be free. The next day, David sent me a message. “If you want me to sign, come to the Hilton Hotel, Suite 708. I’ve had a servant prepare an outfit for you.” It was a stunning, figure-hugging designer dress, accentuating my curves perfectly. I pushed open the suite door, and a crowd of people stared at me, their chatter dying down. Chloe’s smile was particularly dazzling and sharp. “Sarah, Mr. Davies wanted to see someone dance, but I twisted my ankle. I’m so sorry, but it seems you’re our only hope.” The man’s gaze fell on me, devouring me like a predator. This was David’s intention all along: for me to dance for Mr. Davies. “Sarah, you want a divorce, don’t you? I’ll grant it. Just dance until he’s satisfied, and I’ll sign the papers, just as you wish.” He whispered each word distinctly into my ear. Then, he shoved me towards Mr. Davies. Mr. Davies wrapped an arm around my waist, his eyes glazed over. “Everyone says Miss Sarah is a great beauty, and I’ve finally witnessed it today. Don’t worry, I promised Mr. King that I’ll only touch you at most. I won’t actually do anything to you. If you dance to my satisfaction tonight, I’ll agree to take on the King Group’s contracts for the second half of the year.” I looked at David in utter disbelief. Everyone in the industry knew Mr. Davies was a notorious creep, known for his inappropriate behavior with women. The last woman sent to him, supposedly, ended up in the hospital with severe injuries. I struggled free from Mr. Davies’s embrace, but before I could run a few steps, David seized me. “Sarah, stop being so dramatic, okay? It’s just a touch, it’s not like it’ll kill you or leave a mark. This is your leverage for the divorce.” So this was the price of my freedom! The moment the suite door clicked shut, utter despair consumed me. The heavy, sweet scent of an aphrodisiac filled the room, making me feel hot and restless. A hand snaked around my waist from behind. I grabbed a wine bottle from the table, intending to smash it over his head, but he swiftly caught my hand, twisting it back. The bottle shattered against my forehead, and I fell to the floor, a button ripped from my collar. The desperate thought of biting off my tongue to end it all flashed through my mind, but then my parents and sister’s faces appeared before my eyes. “Sweetie, it’s our fault for not being there as you grew up.” “Sister, just live. Live well.” Like a beacon in the darkness, I opened my mouth and bit down hard on Mr. Davies’s finger. He groaned in pain. I seized the chance, yanked open the suite door, and bolted out. As I dashed down the corridor, I passed another suite, its door slightly ajar. David had Chloe pinned against the wall, kissing her wildly. “David, darling, shouldn’t we go check on Sarah? I’m worried about her…” “What’s there to worry about? I already told Mr. Davies he wouldn’t dare touch her. Besides, I wanted to use this opportunity to punish her. She’s been too defiant lately.” I was about to push open the door and confront them when Mr. Davies’s bodyguards found me. They dragged me back inside. My heart turned to ash. Consumed by utter despair, I just threw myself against the wall. Before losing consciousness, I thought I saw my parents and sister smiling at me again. Mom, Dad, Sister, it seems I might break my promise. Your little Sarah is coming to find you. An hour later, David opened the door to Suite 708. He expected to find me there, apologizing. His footsteps suddenly froze. I was nowhere to be seen. Only shards of broken glass littered the floor, and bloodstains. The cleaning staff were whispering. “That girl earlier, she had it awful. Almost lost her innocence. She wouldn’t take the humiliation; she took her own life by smashing her head against the wall…” David refused to believe I was dead. He drove to Mr. Davies’s private estate. Mr. Davies had bandages on his forehead, and a private doctor was tending to his wounds. Seeing David, Mr. Davies looked visibly shaken. “I didn’t even do anything! She just ran into the wall herself. You can’t blame her death on me.” David’s face darkened terrifyingly. “Repeat what you just said!”

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After my bedridden father-in-law, Mr. Sterling, shredded my and Chloe’s marriage certificate for the ninth time, something inside me just… broke. I looked down at the certificate, torn in half, the pieces still sticky with the soup Mr. Sterling had just flung at me. Every time he threw a tantrum, that damn marriage certificate was always the first casualty. “What are you looking at?” Mr. Sterling snapped from his hospital bed, his voice shrill. “If it weren’t for you, you jinx, would I be stuck in this miserable bed?” Silently, I picked up the torn fragments from the floor. A sharp edge cut my finger. I didn’t say a word, just lightly wiped the grease stain off my white shirt. “Don’t pretend to be pathetic!” Mr. Sterling grabbed the water glass from his bedside table and hurled it at me. “Get out! Just looking at you makes me sick!” **Chapter 1** The glass whizzed past my ear, smashing against the wall and scattering shards everywhere. I slowly backed out of the room, gently closing the door behind me. Leaning against the corridor wall, I took a deep, shaky breath. The scent of antiseptic filled my nostrils, reminding me of countless nights spent in hospitals over the past two years. I pulled out my phone and sent Chloe a SnapChat: “Hey, babe, maybe we should hire a nurse for Dad? He’s been acting up again…” I saw she’d read it, but no reply ever came. I stared at the screen for ten minutes before locking my phone, deciding to go to the Registrar’s Office to get a replacement marriage certificate. The Registrar’s Office wasn’t busy. I handed the damaged certificate to the clerk. She glanced at it, then checked her computer and frowned. “Mr. Miller, your divorce is in a mandatory cooling-off period for another seven days. We can’t re-issue your marriage certificate right now.” “Divorce? What divorce?” I thought I’d misheard her. The clerk turned the screen towards me: “Our system shows your wife filed for divorce. You’re currently in the cooling-off period.” My fingers clamped down on the counter’s edge, my face going pale. I suddenly remembered a document Chloe had given me to sign. She’d said it was a hospital bill. I’d been so busy taking care of Mr. Sterling that I hadn’t even looked, just signed it. The clerk looked at me sympathetically. “Would you like to withdraw the divorce petition?” The people behind me in line started whispering: “Isn’t that the guy who married into the wealthy Davis family? The one they say lives off Chloe?” “You know it. I heard if it weren’t for him, Mr. Sterling’s legs might have been saved back then.” I looked down at the ring on my ring finger, my heart twisting with pain. “No, it’s okay. In seven days, the divorce will be final, right?” I whispered. After receiving an affirmative answer, I bolted from the Registrar’s Office as if my life depended on it, but standing under the scorching sun, I felt an icy chill seep into my bones. I hailed a cab back to the hospital. On the way, Chloe finally replied: “Busy with work. Let’s talk tonight.” I repeatedly opened the chat box, wanting to demand answers, but I couldn’t bring myself to type anything. The hospital corridor was eerily quiet. As I approached Mr. Sterling’s room, I heard bursts of laughter from inside. Gently pushing the door open a crack, the sight before me froze me in place. Mr. Sterling was standing by the bed, his legs firmly on the ground, eating fruit with a fork. Leo Hayes sat beside him, peeling an apple, and Chloe, who’d claimed to be so busy, was gently massaging Mr. Sterling’s shoulders. “This faking paralysis trick was brilliant,” Mr. Sterling said smugly. “That jinx would never have guessed I could walk ages ago.” “Uncle, don’t say that,” Leo chided gently. “Alex has been working hard taking care of you.” Mr. Sterling snorted. “He owes me! If he hadn’t stopped Chloe from answering her phone, would I have been stuck in this hospital bed for so long?” My hand clenched tightly around the doorframe. I watched Chloe. Her expression was complicated, but she didn’t contradict her father. “The divorce papers are signed, why hasn’t he left yet?” Mr. Sterling suddenly asked. Chloe murmured, “We’re still in the cooling-off period, and…” “And what?” Mr. Sterling cut her off sharply. “Don’t tell me you still miss him! What does Leo lack compared to him?” “Dad!” Chloe’s voice rose sharply. “I have my reasons for the divorce. You just rest.” Mr. Sterling waved his hand dismissively. “Fine, fine, whatever. Anyway, the divorce is happening. If he wants to be a free caretaker, let him.” I slowly backed away, tears blurring my vision. So, I was the last to know about my own divorce. I turned and left, the laughter from the room echoing behind me. I stood by the window, pulled out my phone, and dialed a number I hadn’t called in a long time. “Hello, it’s me.” My voice was unnaturally calm. “Help me get out of here, as fast as possible.” There was a moment of silence on the other end. “You’ve thought it through?” “Yes.” I looked at the sycamore trees outside the window, their leaves swaying gently in the wind. “Two years. I think I’ve paid off everything I owe their family.” I hung up, glancing towards Mr. Sterling’s room. The laughter continued, a picture of warmth and joy, like a happy home. Except, I had never been truly welcomed in it. **Chapter 2** I didn’t go back to the hospital room. Instead, I hailed a cab and went home. It wasn’t until Chloe opened the door that evening that I finally snapped my packed suitcase shut. I didn’t look up. “Dad threw his bowls three times today. Said I wasn’t as attentive as Leo.” Chloe loosened her tie, a hint of impatience in her voice. “He’s been sick for two years, it’s normal for his temper to be bad. What’s wrong with cutting him some slack?” “Cut him some slack?” I suddenly laughed, picking up the soup-stained shirt from earlier that day. “This morning, I splashed that on myself on purpose.” “Enough!” Chloe snatched the shirt from my hand and threw it on the bed. “Alex, you weren’t like this before!” “What was I like before?” I shot up, my eyes burning. “Was I like the guy who woke up at 5 AM every day to make your dad porridge? Or the guy who knelt to wipe the floor while he cursed me as a jinx?” Chloe’s lips thinned, and she uncomfortably turned her face away. “You know why my dad is paralyzed in bed.” The air suddenly grew heavy. My fists clenched. That phone call. Two years ago, that night, we had just made love. Mr. Sterling’s call came in. “Don’t answer it.” I was still lost in the moment, my arm wrapped around her waist. “Tonight’s our anniversary…” Chloe hesitated, then leaned down and kissed me. “Just one minute.” “You always say that!” I snatched her phone and threw it on the floor. “How many times has your dad faked being sick? If you answer that call tonight, we’re over!” I remember Chloe’s eyes then. Shock, helplessness, and finally, resignation. She sighed, picked up her phone, put it aside, and hugged me. “Okay, I won’t answer.” But the next day, we found out Mr. Sterling had suffered a sudden brain hemorrhage the night before. Because no one answered his call, rescue was delayed, and he became paralyzed. “Yes, I owe him,” I heard my voice, hoarse and raw. “So for the past two years, I’ve been their beast of burden, deserved to have your dad spit his food all over me, deserved to be treated like Leo’s personal servant?” Chloe suddenly ran a frustrated hand through her hair. “Leo is moving in tomorrow.” “What?” “My dad likes him.” Her tone softened, as if she were coaxing a child. “Just for a few months, until his condition stabilizes, then I’ll have Leo move out.” “Chloe,” I gently interrupted. “I went to the Registrar’s Office today.” Her body visibly stiffened. “The clerk said our divorce cooling-off period has seven days left.” I watched her frozen expression. “The document you had me sign a month ago, that was actually the divorce agreement?” “You found out!” Chloe grabbed my wrist. “My dad threatened to die if I didn’t! I was just humoring him!” “Humoring him so much you couldn’t even tell me?” I yanked my hand away. “Seven years of a relationship, and I don’t even deserve to know?” Chloe was enraged. “Can you stop being so aggressive? Do you have any idea how hard it is for me, stuck in the middle?” I froze. I vaguely remembered the first time she took me home to meet her parents. Mr. Sterling had spilled soup on me in front of her. “The only son-in-law our Davis family will have is Leo.” That night, she hugged me on the balcony and apologized. “My dad has a bad temper, please bear with him. It’s so hard for me, stuck in the middle.” Later, at our wedding, Mr. Sterling refused to attend. She held my hand and said, “My dad just needs some time to accept it. Let’s give him a little more time.” And then, when Mr. Sterling was paralyzed, she knelt and begged me to quit my job to take care of him. “Alex, only you can help me now.” Every time, I softened. “Chloe,” I suddenly felt exhausted. “Do you still love me?” She paused, then blurted out, “Of course I do!” “Just don’t make things difficult for me, Alex.” I deflated. Anyway, only seven days left. Forget it. I silently nodded. “Leo will sleep in the guest room.” She finally stiffly changed the subject. “Get some rest early.” After the door closed, I slumped onto the bed. Moonlight leaked through the gap in the curtains, and I saw the dusty photo frame on the bedside table. In the picture, Chloe was holding my hand, running on the beach. Waves splashed her dress, and she turned back, laughing, shouting, “Hurry up, Mr. Miller!” Seven years of love, just a bubble. I pulled out my phone and sent a message: “In seven days, pick me up as planned.” Just as I pressed send, a loud crash suddenly echoed from downstairs. **Chapter 3** I went downstairs and saw Mr. Sterling being pushed by Leo. A group of people were bringing in boxes and bags. “Well, well, finally decided to come down, have we?” Mr. Sterling lifted his eyelids, a cold smirk playing on his lips. “I thought you were going to hide in your room forever.” Leo stood beside him, holding a cup of tea, and spoke softly. “Uncle just finished his physical therapy. The doctor said he needs to move around more.” “Physical therapy?” I looked at Mr. Sterling’s legs. He proudly patted his knees. “What, surprised? The doctor says I’m recovering well. A little more rest and I’ll be completely fine.” He pointed upstairs. “Leo’s moving in here starting today, to make it easier to take care of me. You can disagree all you want, but he’s staying.” I didn’t say anything, just curled my lips, my gaze shifting to Chloe, who was standing nearby. She pursed her lips and whispered, “Alex has already agreed.” Mr. Sterling paused, then sneered. “Finally, a sensible decision from him.” Leo immediately smiled, affectionately hugging Mr. Sterling’s arm. “Uncle, let me help you take your luggage upstairs?” Mr. Sterling patted his hand. “Go ahead, pick any room you like.” Leo’s eyes lit up, and he hurried upstairs. Not long after, a loud crash echoed from above. I looked up and saw Leo directing the staff to take down the decorative painting in the hallway. It was one Chloe and I had picked together, a painting of the beach where we had our first date. “This painting is so tacky, it doesn’t match the current decor.” Leo gleefully tossed the painting aside, then pointed to the photos on the wall. “Take these down too, they’re an eyesore.” Photo after photo was pulled down, including our wedding picture. Chloe stood at the top of the stairs, frowning slightly, as if she wanted to say something, but in the end, she just looked at me and said, “Let them do it. We can hang them back up later.” I just quirked my lips, saying nothing. Leo peeked his head out from upstairs, pouting playfully. “Chloe, I want the master bedroom! It’s close to Uncle’s room, which makes it easier to take care of him.” Mr. Sterling immediately nodded. “Yes, yes, Leo is so thoughtful.” Chloe instinctively looked at me, seemingly waiting for me to object. But I just calmly nodded. “Fine. I’ll move to the guest room.” I turned to go upstairs, but Chloe grabbed my wrist. “You’re acting strange.” I turned back to her. “What’s wrong? Didn’t you all want him to move in?” “But you…” Chloe frowned deeply. “You wouldn’t have done this before.” “Before?” I scoffed. “Isn’t this exactly what you wanted?” I pulled my hand free and walked straight into the master bedroom, starting to pack my things. Chloe followed me in, standing in the doorway and watching me put my clothes one by one into the suitcase. Finally, she couldn’t help but ask, “What is going on with you?” I didn’t look up. “Making room for you all.” Chloe paused, then said nothing. At seven in the evening, I went downstairs for dinner. In the dining room, Mr. Sterling, Leo, and Chloe were already seated, the table laden with dishes. Leo was carefully placing a piece of fish into Mr. Sterling’s bowl, and Mr. Sterling’s eyes were crinkled in a pleased smile. “Leo is still the most thoughtful.” Chloe looked up, saw me, and motioned for me to come over. “Come eat.” I walked over. As soon as I sat down, my gaze swept across the dinner table and suddenly froze. Every single dish was something I was allergic to. Seafood, mango, peanuts… everything that could trigger my allergies. I looked up, meeting Mr. Sterling’s knowing, half-mocking gaze. Chloe seemed completely oblivious. She picked up a shrimp and placed it in Leo’s bowl. “Try this, it’s your favorite.” Leo smiled sweetly. “Thanks, Chloe.” She then served Mr. Sterling a bowl of soup. When she turned to me, seeing me still and unmoving, she frowned. “Don’t throw a tantrum. You still need to eat.” I froze. She didn’t remember. I had a severe seafood allergy; once, after accidentally eating just a tiny piece of shrimp, I was rushed to the emergency room in the middle of the night. Chloe had stayed by my side all night then, her eyes red, saying, “From now on, I promise I’ll pick out all your allergens.” But now, she was serving shrimp to Leo, soup to her father, and she didn’t even remember what I couldn’t eat. I lowered my eyes, picked up my forks, and slowly chewed on a green vegetable. Mr. Sterling suddenly spoke. “Chloe, Leo has been pursuing you for so long, asking for nothing. All he wants is a wedding, you know.” Chloe’s forks clattered slightly, and she instinctively looked at me. Leo immediately looked hurt. “Uncle, don’t make things difficult for Chloe. I… I don’t mind.” Mr. Sterling patted his hand. “How can you say that? You can’t just remain unnamed and unacknowledged.” The dining table fell silent for a few seconds. Chloe hesitated, then softly said, “Let me discuss it with Alex first.” “No need to discuss.” I suddenly spoke. Everyone looked at me. I put down my forks and said calmly, “It’s fine. You can have it.” **Chapter 4** The entire table fell silent instantly. Mr. Sterling’s eyes widened. Chloe looked up abruptly. “What did you say?” I stood up. “I’m done eating. Please, enjoy your meal.” I turned to go upstairs. Behind me, I heard Mr. Sterling mutter, “Is he losing his mind?” As I reached the stairs, Chloe caught up, grabbing my arm. “What did you mean just now?” I turned to her. “Didn’t you all want to have a wedding? I agreed.” Chloe frowned deeply. “That was just for show! My dad just got out of the hospital, I didn’t want to upset him.” “Hm.” I nodded. “Whatever you want.” Chloe stared into my eyes, as if trying to discern something, then finally whispered, “Don’t worry, I’ll withdraw the divorce petition before the cooling-off period ends.” I smiled. “Good.” She visibly relaxed, reaching out to touch my hair. “Good boy.” I dodged her hand, a mocking curve on my lips, and turned to go upstairs. Chloe stood rooted to the spot, watching my retreating back, a strange, unsettling feeling bubbling up inside her. The next day, after Chloe left for work, I finally emerged from the guest room. Downstairs, Mr. Sterling was already seated at the dining table, his fingers impatiently tapping the surface. Seeing me descend, he immediately spoke in a cold tone. “What are you standing around for? Aren’t you going to get me ready?” Usually, at this time, I would immediately fetch hot water, get a towel, and squat down to wipe his face, massage him, and even kneel to put on his shoes. But today, I merely gave him a detached glance, walked straight to the kitchen, poured myself a glass of milk, and slowly toasted a slice of bread. Mr. Sterling’s face instantly darkened. “Are you deaf?” Seeing this, Leo quickly spoke in a soft tone. “Uncle, let me help you.” He knelt down, awkwardly wiping Mr. Sterling’s face, though a faint frown creased his brow. I sat at the dining table, watching the scene coldly, suddenly feeling foolish. I had waited on Mr. Sterling for two years, bringing him tea and water, wiping him down and feeding him, and even smilingly cleaning up after he deliberately spat food on me. Now, Leo was just wiping his face, and he was already showing his impatience. Mr. Sterling, however, seemed oblivious, even patting Leo’s hand affectionately. “Leo is still the most thoughtful.” After breakfast, Mr. Sterling suddenly said he wanted to go out and get some sun. “Alex, push my wheelchair,” he commanded. I put down my cup and said calmly, “Isn’t Leo quite good at waiting on people? Let him push you.” Mr. Sterling’s face stiffened, and Leo also looked stunned. “You—” Mr. Sterling was about to lose his temper, but Leo quickly offered a placating smile. “Uncle, I’ll push you.” Mr. Sterling huffed, reluctantly agreeing. The three of us went outside. Leo pushed the wheelchair, and I walked beside them. When we reached a downhill slope, Leo suddenly let out a yelp of “Oops!”, his foot slipped, and he abruptly pushed me! Caught off guard, I stumbled forward, my elbow hitting the wheelchair. The wheelchair instantly lost control, speeding down the slope! “Dad!” My pupils contracted. I instinctively lunged forward, trying to grab the wheelchair. But just as my hand was about to grasp the handle, Mr. Sterling suddenly turned his head and shoved me hard! “Get lost!” I staggered backward, directly into the middle of the road. “Bang—!” The screech of brakes pierced the air. My body was violently thrown, crashing heavily onto the ground. In the last second of excruciating pain that swept through my body, I saw Leo standing on the roadside, holding Mr. Sterling, a cold smirk playing on his lips. **Chapter 5** “You’re awake?” Chloe’s voice came from beside me. I painfully turned my head to see her sitting by the bed, her brows furrowed, a flicker of concern in her eyes, quickly replaced by anger. “Do you know you have broken bones?” Her voice was low. “The doctor said if it had been a little worse, you would have died!” I opened my mouth, my throat dry. “Leo pushed me.” Chloe’s face instantly darkened. “Even now, you’re still trying to blame others?” “I’m not!” I struggled to prop myself up. “Your dad pushed me into traffic!” “Enough!” Chloe abruptly stood up, her eyes blazing with fury. “My dad just woke up and said *you* pushed him! Leo also saw with his own eyes that *you* hit the wheelchair!” I stared hard at her. “Check the security footage.” “Check what footage?” Chloe grabbed my wrist, her voice laced with suppressed anger. “Don’t I know what kind of person my dad is? And Leo is so gentle, what reason would he have to harm you?!” I suddenly laughed, a bitter, eye-watering laugh. She believed everyone else but me. I reached out and pressed the call bell by the bed. When the nurse came in, I said directly, “Call the police.” Chloe’s face instantly changed. “Are you crazy?” The police arrived quickly. As they questioned me, Chloe coldly interrupted, “He has mental issues, depression. He often hallucinates that people are trying to harm him.” The police looked at me suspiciously. I said calmly, “I demand to see the security footage from the intersection.” Chloe lowered her voice to the police. “I apologize, his emotional state has been unstable recently. I’ll take him to a psychiatrist.” The police hesitated for a moment, then simply made a brief report and left. The hospital room door closed, and Chloe gripped my shoulder, her voice icy. “Do you really have to make a big deal out of this?” I looked up at her. “I just want the truth.” “Truth?” Chloe sneered. “You’ve been putting on this act since yesterday, all to try and frame my dad and Leo today? Alex, you’re truly ruthless.” I stopped speaking, just staring at her quietly. Chloe’s heart twitched under my gaze, but the next second, Leo suddenly pushed open the door, his eyes red. “Chloe! Uncle woke up, and he said Alex pushed him!” Chloe’s eyes turned completely cold. “I knew it.” She released me and turned to the bodyguard at the door. “Take him to the electroshock therapy room.” I was pressed onto the bed, my limbs bound tightly by restraints. Chloe stood by the door, her brows furrowed, seeming to hesitate for a moment. But Leo suddenly stepped forward and said softly, “Chloe, Uncle said he’s very unstable right now. What if he harms himself again?” Chloe closed her eyes, then said coldly, “Begin.” The moment the current connected, excruciating pain swept through my body like a tide. I bit down hard on my lip until the taste of blood spread in my mouth. “Did you push him?” the doctor asked. I didn’t answer. The current surged again, my body convulsed uncontrollably, and a painful whimper escaped my throat. Chloe stood nearby, her fingers trembling slightly. Suddenly, she spoke. “Enough!” But Leo pressed her arm, his voice soft. “Chloe, Uncle said he won’t tell the truth unless he suffers a little.” Chloe clenched her fists, finally turning her face away. During the third electroshock, I finally broke. Hoarsely, I gasped, “I pushed him.” Chloe spun around, a flicker of pain in her eyes, but it quickly turned cold again. “Wouldn’t it have been easier to admit it earlier?” She walked closer, reaching out to touch my face, but I turned my head to dodge her. Her fingers hung in the air, then she pulled them back, saying coldly, “Keep him here for two days. Let him cool down.” With that, she turned and left. Leo, however, didn’t rush off. Instead, he gave the doctor a meaningful look. **Chapter 6** After two days locked up, when the door was pushed open, blinding light flooded in, and I instinctively curled up, retreating into the corner of the wall. Chloe stood in the doorway, her brows furrowed. “What happened?” The doctor stood nearby, about to speak, but Leo had already hurried in, saying softly, “Chloe, Alex has suffered enough. Let’s take him home quickly.” He reached out to help me, but I sharply recoiled. I kept my head down, my right wrist still bandaged, my fingertips trembling slightly. Chloe stared at me, her tone somewhat displeased. “It’s only been two days, hasn’t it? Why are you like this?” The doctor hesitated, but Leo had already linked arms with Chloe, whispering, “Alex’s right hand is still injured, so he must be uncomfortable.” Chloe frowned, walked forward, and reached out to touch my hair. “Alex, let’s go home.” I trembled violently, reflexively shrinking back. Chloe’s hand froze in mid-air. On the way home, I leaned against the car window, my gaze vacant as I watched the scenery flash by outside. “Tomorrow,” Chloe suddenly spoke, her voice a little hesitant. “Leo and my wedding is just for show.” I didn’t say anything. “You know, it’s just to make my dad happy.” She glanced at me. “I’ll withdraw the divorce petition. Nothing has happened between me and him.” I remained silent. Leo, sitting in the passenger seat, turned around and said softly, “Alex, why don’t you come with me to pick out a suit tomorrow?” Chloe frowned. “He’s still recovering from his injuries.” “But Alex has been married before, he must know what styles are suitable,” Leo blinked, his tone innocent. “Besides, I’d like him to help me choose.” Chloe hesitated, then finally looked at me. “Want to come along?” “Okay.” At the bridal boutique, “This style looks great!” I smoothed the suit jacket, turning to Chloe with a gentle smile. “Chloe, I love this one.” I looked up sharply. That was *my* suit. My father, a top fashion designer during his lifetime, had personally designed this suit as his final masterpiece for me. It was the only one of its kind in the world. After my marriage, it had been stored in this very boutique for long-term care. “No,” my voice trembled. “That’s mine.” Leo looked hurt as he turned to Chloe. “But I really like it.” Chloe was silent for a moment, then finally whispered, “Alex, it’s just a suit. Let him have it.” I looked at her in disbelief. “You know what that means to me!” It was the last thing my father had left me. Chloe looked away, her tone cold. “Just order another one.” Leo was already impatiently asking the staff to take it down for him to try on. I stood rooted to the spot, my fingertips digging deep into my palms, yet I felt no pain. When Leo walked out wearing the suit, the staff exclaimed in admiration. “It looks so good!” “It’s as if it was custom-made for him!” Leo turned, triumphantly looking at me. “Alex, what do you think?” I stared at him, my throat constricted as if by something, unable to utter a single word. Chloe stood nearby, her gaze complex, but she merely said, “It suits you well.” Leo’s smile grew even wider. Suddenly, he let out an “Oops!” and tripped, falling to the ground. “Riiiiiip!” The suit jacket ripped. My mind buzzed. I rushed forward like a madman, shoving him away and pulling the jacket off him. “You did that on purpose!” Leo’s eyes instantly reddened. “I didn’t mean to, Alex. Why did you push me?” Chloe grabbed my wrist. “Alex Miller! What are you doing? Are you insane?” I looked up at her, tears splattering onto the suit. “This is the last thing my dad left me.” Chloe froze for a moment, seeming to waver, but Leo was already sobbing, leaning on her shoulder. “Chloe, it hurts so much.” She closed her eyes, then said coldly, “Don’t make any more of a scene.” With that, she turned and left. The staff exchanged glances, whispering. “How pitiful.” “I heard it’s all because of him that Mr. Sterling was paralyzed for two years.” I knelt on the floor, looking at the deliberate rips Leo had made when he took off the suit, tears falling onto the back of my hand, scalding hot. I hugged the damaged suit tightly, breaking down into sobs. Just like my love, once brilliant as a diamond, now shattered into worthless pieces. **Chapter 7** I stood in the corner of the wedding venue, my fingertips digging deep into my palms. Tomorrow. Tomorrow would be the end of the divorce cooling-off period. I could finally leave this place for good. But today, I had to witness Chloe and Leo’s wedding with my own eyes. Guests filled the seats on both sides of the red carpet. Mr. Sterling sat in his wheelchair, smiling happily. The music started. Chloe, in a white wedding gown, slowly walked down the aisle, arm-in-arm with Leo. I vaguely remembered my own wedding day. The same chapel, the same red carpet. Chloe’s palms were sweaty with nervousness, but she held my hand tightly, whispering, “Alex, I’m finally marrying you.” And now, she was arm-in-arm with another man, her gaze calm, walking the path I once walked. A tear fell unexpectedly. I quickly lowered my head to wipe it away, but then I heard the whispers of the guests around me. “Isn’t that Mrs. Davis’s ex-husband? How dare he show his face here?” “I heard he has mental problems and almost killed Mr. Sterling.” “Tsk, how pathetic.” I pretended not to hear, just staring blankly at Chloe on the stage. She seemed to sense something, her gaze searching the crowd until it landed on my tear-streaked face. She paused, her eyes complex, but in the end, she said nothing, just turned her head and continued the ceremony. *Alex, you’ll understand, right?* After the wedding, the guests dispersed. As I reached the master bedroom door, I suddenly heard intimate sounds from inside. “Chloe, slower.” Leo’s voice was like a knife, plunging savagely into my heart. My body stiffened, my fingers trembling, but then I heard Chloe’s breathless warning, “Don’t make a sound.” “What are you scared of?” Leo chuckled. “He’ll find out sooner or later anyway.” “Shut up.” “Do you regret marrying him?” Leo suddenly asked. I held my breath. Silence hung in the room for a few seconds, then Chloe’s frustrated voice came, “Yes, I regret it.” Those two words were like a brand, searing pain through my insides. I remembered our wedding day, when she solemnly told the pastor, “I will never regret this, not for a lifetime.” And now, she said she regretted it. I didn’t want to hear anymore. I turned, stumbling back to the guest room, closed the door, and sank to the floor. The sounds from next door continued late into the night: the creaking of the bed, Leo’s low moans, Chloe’s gasps… Finally, Mr. Sterling’s joyful voice came. “Have a baby soon! Dad’s waiting to hold his grandchild!” I leaned against the wall, laughing as tears streamed down my face uncontrollably. The next morning, I had already packed all my luggage. I looked down at my phone. Today was the last day. Laughter drifted up from downstairs. As I walked down the stairs, Chloe was bending over, tying Mr. Sterling’s tie. Leo stood nearby, holding a silver suitcase. The three of them, a picture of domestic bliss, looked like a perfect family. “Oh, up so early?” Mr. Sterling glanced at me, his smile instantly turning cold. “We’re going out. Remember to change the sheets in the master bedroom.” Leo feigned thoughtfulness. “Uncle, let the staff do it. Alex’s hand is still injured.” Chloe only then noticed me, frowning slightly. “Where are you going?” “Today is the last day of the cooling-off period.” I looked directly into her eyes, my voice eerily calm. “To the Registrar’s Office.” Chloe froze for a moment. “I promised to take Dad and Leo to the hot springs resort today.” The air solidified for a few seconds. “You go and withdraw it,” she suddenly said. “After I spend two days with them, everything will go back to how it was.” “Okay,” I mumbled, lowering my head slightly. Chloe visibly relaxed, then turned to help Mr. Sterling. “Dad, let’s get in the car.” I stood rooted to the spot, watching the black Maybach slowly drive out of the courtyard. Not until it was completely out of sight did I raise my hand to wipe the tears from my face, pick up my suitcase, and walk towards the main gate without looking back. The official seal clicked down with a soft sound. “Here’s your divorce certificate. Please keep it safe.” The clerk handed me a dark red booklet. “The property settlement agreement is already in effect, signed by your ex-wife.” I didn’t even look at it, just shoved the divorce certificate into a padded envelope, and filled in the address of the Davis family mansion. “Please send this to this address, cash on delivery.” Walking out of the Registrar’s Office, the car sent to pick me up was already parked by the roadside, Seeing me emerge, Jake immediately waved. “Over here!” I opened the car door, then suddenly remembered something, fumbling in my pocket for my wedding ring. Chloe had put it on my finger herself on the beach. “Forever” was engraved on the inside. I stared at the ring for two seconds, then raised my hand and threw it out the window. It landed with a faint “clink” in the middle of the road, quickly crushed by the wheels of a speeding car. “Let’s go,” I closed the car door. “Never coming back.” **Chapter 8** The car pulled away from the Registrar’s Office. I leaned against the window, watching the familiar streets recede little by little. I thought I would cry, but my eyes were so dry they hurt, not a single tear fell. “Hungry?” Jake gripped the steering wheel, glancing at me from the corner of his eye. “Want to grab something to eat first?” I shook my head, my fingers unconsciously tracing the faint ring mark on my ring finger. Where the ring had been, the skin was a little paler than elsewhere, as if it had left a permanent imprint. “Don’t look at it,” Jake reached over and covered my hand. “That kind of woman isn’t worth it.” I softly hummed in agreement, then turned my head to look out the window again. The airport was bustling with people. Jake walked ahead, dragging my suitcase, occasionally looking back at me as if afraid I might suddenly disappear. I walked behind him, my steps feeling light. “Here,” Jake tucked the boarding pass into my hand. “Get some sleep on the plane. I’ll wake you when we arrive.” I looked down at the destination on the boarding pass, a southern city I had never been to. I opened my mouth, wanting to say something, but in the end, I just nodded. “Cry if you need to,” Jake handed me a tissue. “What’s the point of holding it in?” I shook my head, forcing the tears back. I couldn’t cry, at least not now. Crying would make it seem like I still cared. As the plane took off, the sensation of weightlessness made my heart plummet. I gripped the armrest, closing my eyes. “Feeling sick?” Jake asked. “No,” I said softly. “Just remembered the last time I was on a plane was with her, on our honeymoon.” Jake rolled his eyes. “Don’t even bring her up.” I stopped talking, turning to look out the window. The flight attendant brought meals. I mechanically picked up my forks, but couldn’t eat a single bite. My stomach felt heavy, and even breathing felt like an effort. “Eat something,” Jake frowned. “Look how thin you’ve gotten.” I managed to swallow a mouthful of bread, but my throat felt constricted, a painful lump stuck there. By the time the plane landed, night had already fallen. The unfamiliar city was alight with neon. I stood at the airport exit, the cold wind whipping my hair, and suddenly felt a profound sense of bewilderment. There was no Chloe here, no Mr. Sterling, no suffocating days. “My sister’s picking us up,” Jake pointed to a tall woman not far away. I looked at the unfamiliar young woman, unable to connect her with the chubby little girl I remembered. “Alex,” Maya took my suitcase. “Tired from the trip?” Her voice was gentle, tinged with concern. In the car, Jake suddenly pulled out a pair of small pliers. “Give me your phone.” “What?” “I’m taking out the SIM card.” Jake deftly removed it, opened the car window, and threw it out. “From today on, you’re free.” I watched the passing streetlights, and finally, tears streamed down my face. Maya glanced at me in the rearview mirror, saying softly, “I put an easel on the balcony for you, Jake said you used to love to paint.” I froze for a moment, suddenly remembering how long it had been since I’d picked up a paintbrush. After getting married, Chloe was always busy, and Mr. Sterling needed care. I gradually forgot that I used to be a boy who loved to sketch the world on canvas. A red light flashed, and the car stopped. A couple was arguing on the street, the boy crying, begging the girl not to leave. I turned my head away, crying harder. Jake reached over and patted my cold hand. “Don’t look, it’s all in the past.” Yes, it was all in the past. Seven years of love, two years of marriage, all that was left was this exhaustion and a heart riddled with holes. The car entered a residential area, stopping in front of a quiet apartment building. I looked up. “We’re home,” Maya said. Home? Standing in the unfamiliar hallway, I suddenly realized that from now on, I no longer had that “home” to return to. My heart felt like it was being squeezed by an invisible hand, hurting so much that I bent over, the repressed sadness from the journey finally making me sob out loud. **Chapter 9** The hot spring mist billowed. Chloe leaned against the edge of the pool, the warm water soothing her taut nerves. Mr. Sterling, pushed by Leo, slowly approached the poolside, a satisfied smile on his face. “This place is well-chosen, much more comfortable than home.” Chloe smiled, reaching out to wipe the damp hair from his temples. “Dad, your leg just healed, don’t soak too long.” Mr. Sterling patted her hand, his tone unusually gentle. “Don’t worry, Dad knows what he’s doing.” Leo stood nearby, gently offering a towel. “Uncle, wipe your face.” Mr. Sterling nodded contentedly, then looked at Chloe. “Leo is such a thoughtful boy, much more so than some people.” The smile on Chloe’s lips faded slightly. She didn’t reply. She looked up at the distant mountains. For some reason, she suddenly thought of me. I never ingratiated myself with her father like this, but every time Mr. Sterling was sick, I would silently stay by his bedside, making medicine, wiping him down, changing his sheets, never complaining. “Chloe?” Mr. Sterling’s voice broke her reverie. “What are you daydreaming about?” Chloe came back to herself, shaking her head. “Nothing.” She paused, then suddenly spoke. “Dad, you promised not to interfere with Alex and me.” Mr. Sterling’s smile stiffened, then he waved his hand dismissively. “Alright, alright, I know you still care about him. Now that my leg is better, I can’t be bothered with your affairs.” Chloe’s heart lightened, as if a great weight had been lifted. Yes, her father’s leg was better, and the wedding was done. When they went back, everything would go back to normal. She and I could be like before. That evening, Chloe sat on the suite’s terrace, staring blankly at her silent phone on the table. Leo pushed open the door, clad only in a towel, his hair still dripping water. “Chloe, why are you out here alone?” He walked closer, his fingers gently resting on her shoulder. Chloe turned her head, her gaze falling on the red marks on his neck. She had left them there last night when she lost control. She frowned, a sudden surge of irritation welling up inside her. “Leo,” she said, her voice a little cold. “Even though the wedding happened, Alex is still my husband.” Leo’s fingers stiffened, then he nodded, feigning understanding. “I know, I won’t make things difficult for Alex.” Chloe’s expression softened slightly. “You’re very understanding, and I appreciate it.” Leo lowered his head, his bangs concealing the gloom in his eyes. “Whoever Chloe likes, I like too.” Chloe reached out and ruffled his hair, her tone gentle. “Go back, get some rest.” Leo obediently assented, then turned and left. Chloe watched his retreating back, but a strange emptiness inexplicably settled in her heart. She took out her phone, hesitated, but still didn’t send me a message. *Forget it, I’ll talk to him when we get back.* On the way back the next day, Mr. Sterling eagerly planned their arrangements for after they returned home. “Leo should just live at home from now on. The guest room is empty anyway.” Chloe gripped the steering wheel, responding with a faint “Hm.” Leo sat in the passenger seat, fiddling with his phone, a subtle, almost imperceptible smile playing on his lips. Chloe caught a glimpse of him in the rearview mirror and suddenly felt a bit of a stranger. *It should be me, like this, by my side.* Her phone suddenly rang. She casually answered. “Hello?” “Ms. Davis, you have a cash-on-delivery package that needs to be signed for.” Chloe frowned. “What is it?” “Not sure, it’s in an envelope.” She absently replied, “Just leave it at the door. Have the butler sign for it.” After hanging up, she quickly put the matter out of her mind. As the car drove into the villa community, the sunset was perfect. Chloe’s mood inexplicably brightened. She thought, when she saw me later, she would have a good talk with me. Tell me that her father wouldn’t interfere with us anymore. Tell me that she loved me all along. Tell me that everything before was beyond her control. The car stopped. She pushed open the door and walked quickly towards the main entrance. Mr. Finch, the butler, came to meet her, holding a thin envelope. “Madam, your package.” Chloe took it casually, her fingertips brushing against a rigid edge. A bad premonition suddenly seized her. She tore open the envelope, and a dark red booklet slid out. Divorce Certificate. Date of Registration: Today. Chloe stood rooted to the spot. The sun was still warm, but she felt an icy chill spread through her entire body. *Did he not withdraw the divorce petition?* **Chapter 10** Mr. Sterling glimpsed the dark red divorce certificate, a flicker of triumphant amusement in his eyes, quickly suppressed. He feigned a regretful sigh, but his voice barely concealed his glee. “This is for the best. He finally knows when to back off.” Chloe looked up at her father. “What?” “Last night,” Mr. Sterling slowly began, “the butler said he stood outside your bedroom door for a while before leaving.” The air went still for a moment. Chloe’s breath caught, a buzzing sound in her ears, as if something had exploded in her mind. Last night. She remembered Leo wrapped around her, asking her, “Chloe, do you regret marrying him?” And she, in the haze of passion, had followed his lead, softly whispering, “Yes, I regret it.” Now, looking back, Alex must have heard! Her face instantly turned ashen, her hands clenching tightly. “Chloe!” Leo suddenly cried out, his eyes reddened. “Don’t say anymore, it’s all my fault.” Mr. Sterling sneered. “What’s your fault? If it weren’t for him—” “Enough!” Chloe sharply cut him off, her voice hoarse. “Everyone, go back to your rooms.” Her tone was icy. Mr. Sterling and Leo exchanged a glance, then finally said no more, Leo pushing Mr. Sterling away. The living room suddenly became quiet, leaving only Chloe standing there, breathing heavily. She stumbled to the sofa, collapsing onto it, her gaze fixed on the divorce certificate on the coffee table. This morning, she should have gone to the Registrar’s Office herself to withdraw the divorce petition. But she had casually said to me, “You go and withdraw it. After I spend two days with them, everything will go back to how it was.” And I had simply lowered my head, softly answering, “Okay.” Now, recalling it, my tone had been eerily calm. As if I had already planned to divorce. A suffocating ache suddenly welled up in Chloe’s chest. She remembered yesterday’s wedding, me standing in the corner, quietly watching her, tears silently falling. She remembered last night, lost in passion, she had personally told another man she “regretted” it. She remembered this morning, how she carelessly told me to withdraw the divorce petition, and I, in fact, went. But not to withdraw it. Instead, I picked up the divorce certificate. “Impossible,” she murmured, her trembling fingers picking up the divorce certificate, as if she could prove it was a lie. But the official seal was clear, the date glaring. I really had divorced her. This thought was like a heavy hammer, pounding fiercely on her heart, making it almost impossible to breathe. She abruptly stood up, grabbed her car keys, and rushed out, but then suddenly stopped at the door. *Divorce… wasn’t this what I always wanted?* **Chapter 11** Chloe sat on the sofa, staring at the divorce certificate on the coffee table. The living room lights were off. Outside, the rain was pouring heavily, the drops pounding against the window with a rhythmic clatter. She reached for the wine bottle on the table, found it empty, and casually tossed it into the trash can. In the trash can was also a half-finished, cold cup of coffee—the one I had brewed for her before she went out, she couldn’t remember which day. “Your stomach isn’t good, don’t drink too much.” I always looked at her with concern. She had drunk half of it, then poured the rest away. Now that she thought about it, I seemed to always say things like that. “Don’t stay up late,” “Remember to eat,” “Drink less alcohol.” She had gotten tired of hearing it, thought I was nagging, but now the house was terrifyingly quiet, and she suddenly wished she could hear me say just one more sentence. Just one. Mr. Sterling came out of his room upstairs, his wheelchair clattering on the floor. He glanced at the divorce certificate on the coffee table, his lips twitching, as if he wanted to smile but held it back. “It’s good that he’s gone,” he sat down, picking up a teacup. “His temperament was never suited for our family anyway.” Chloe didn’t speak. “If you ask me, he should have left ages ago.” Mr. Sterling patted her shoulder. “Look at him these past two years, always with a sour face, like someone owed him something.” “Dad,” Chloe said, her voice a little hoarse. “What? Did I say something wrong?” Mr. Sterling put down his teacup. “If he was truly sensible, he wouldn’t have stopped you from answering the phone back then, causing me to…” “Enough!” Chloe suddenly yelled. Mr. Sterling jumped, almost spilling his teacup. Chloe took a breath, her voice softening. “Please go back to your room.” Mr. Sterling glared at her, then got up and left. The house grew quiet again. Chloe leaned back into the sofa, closing her eyes. She remembered yesterday’s wedding, me standing in the corner, watching her walk down the aisle arm-in-arm with Leo. I hadn’t spoken, hadn’t made a scene, just stood there, tears silently falling. She had seen it then, felt a pang in her heart, but quickly dismissed it with other thoughts. Now, she wondered if I had already decided to leave back then. Her phone rang. It was a SnapChat from Leo: “Chloe, I’m craving porridge. Should I ask Mrs. Gable to make some soup?” She didn’t reply. In the kitchen, my apron was still hanging there, light blue, a little faded from washing. I always liked to wear that apron when making her hangover soup, because she had many social engagements and often came home drunk late at night. Once, she drank too much and threw up violently. I was kneeling in the bathroom, patting her back. She found me annoying and pushed me. I hit the sink, leaving a large bruise on my waist. The next day, after she sobered up, she noticed me wincing when I bent over and then remembered what happened last night. “Does it hurt?” she asked. I shook my head, pushing breakfast towards her. “Eat while it’s hot.” Chloe suddenly stood up, walked to the kitchen, and picked up that apron. The fabric was soft, still carrying a faint smell of cooking oil. She gripped it tightly, then loosened her hold. The rain intensified, streaking the windows with water. Outside, the trees swayed wildly in the wind. Chloe stood by the window, looking at her reflection. She suddenly remembered that I was terrified of thunderstorms. Whenever it rained, I would always curl up in her arms, burying my face in her chest. She used to find me clingy, often pushing me away, saying, “You’re a grown man, why are you still scared of this?” Now, the thunder rumbled, the house was empty, and no one was seeking comfort in her arms. She took out her phone and dialed my number. “The number you have dialed is currently switched off. Please try again later.” The robotic female voice was cold, repeating over and over. Chloe stood there, listening to the rain and the busy signal, and suddenly felt an emptiness in her heart. She had never thought that I would actually leave. **Chapter 12** She stared at my face on the divorce certificate, suddenly recalling the first time she brought me home. Her father sat on the living room sofa, his face cold, scrutinizing me. He set his teacup down heavily on the coffee table. “Is this the boyfriend you found?” My back was ramrod straight, but my fingers secretly gripped the hem of my shirt. “Dad,” she said then, wrapping an arm around my shoulder, “I won’t marry anyone else but him.” She remembered her father was so angry he smashed his cup. She pulled me away, and we left without looking back. It was pouring rain that night. We took shelter in a small roadside shop. My hair was soaked. “Will your dad never like me?” “Who cares?” She pulled my cold hand to her face. “My liking you is enough.” Back then, I would blush at her words, sneak to her office to bring her late-night snacks when she worked overtime, and grumble while making her hangover soup when she drank too much. Chloe’s hand unconsciously traced my face in the photo. Later, everything changed. That phone call came at the wrong time. We had just finished being intimate, and I was curled up in her arms, half-asleep. When her father’s phone rang, I was unusually childish. “Don’t answer it tonight, please?” She hesitated, then put her phone on silent. The next morning, the hospital’s call was like a bucket of ice water. Her father had suffered a sudden brain hemorrhage. Because no one answered his call, the optimal time for rescue was delayed, and he became paralyzed. By his bedside, her father clutched her hand, crying, “If he hadn’t stopped you from answering the phone…” She turned, seeing me standing at the hospital room door, my face ashen. From then on, everything changed. She started working overtime frequently, because she didn’t want to go home and face the war between the two men. Every time she opened the front door, she either heard her father smashing things or saw me silently cleaning up clothes that had been spat on. “Can’t you just not argue with him?” One night, she said, annoyed. “He’s a sick man.” I was ironing her clothes. My hand trembled at her words, leaving a scorched mark on the hem of her skirt. “I’m sorry,” I said softly. “I’ll buy you a new one tomorrow.” She looked at my back and suddenly realized how much thinner I had gotten. The pajamas that once fit well now hung loosely on me, revealing a slender wrist. “Have you not been eating properly lately?” she asked. I shook my head, continuing to iron the clothes. “I’ve eaten.” Later, she gradually got used to this life. Used to seeing my pale face when she came home, used to her father’s endless picking on, and even used to my increasingly silent demeanor. Until the wedding day, when she walked down the red carpet arm-in-arm with Leo, and her peripheral vision caught sight of me standing in the corner. I was wearing the simplest white shirt, tears silently streaming down my face, but I didn’t raise a hand to wipe them away. At that moment, her heart twinged, but the officiant’s voice quickly broke her train of thought. Now, Chloe stared at the date on the divorce certificate and suddenly realized that I hadn’t smiled at her in a very long time. When was the last time? It seemed like half a year ago, she had come home on time, an unusual occurrence, to find me asleep at the dining table, with cold food in front of me. Hearing her voice, I groggily opened my eyes and smiled at her. “You’re home.” And then? Then her father called from upstairs, needing something. She left me and went to her father’s room. When she returned, I had already cleared the dining table and gone to the kitchen to wash the dishes. Chloe suddenly stood up and walked to the closet, pulling it open. My clothes were neatly hung. I hadn’t taken anything with me. Chloe suddenly found it hard to breathe. She remembered when Leo had asked her last night if she regretted marrying, and she had said, “I regret it.” Now she finally knew what regret felt like. The next day, Chloe prepared to drive to wherever I might be, telling Leo to take good care of her father as she left. Leo nodded obediently, then carefully asked, “Chloe, are you going to find Alex?”

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The night before my wedding, my fiancé, Jax, suddenly claimed he had amnesia. He remembered everyone but me. That day, I finally got my hands on a drug that could restore memories, and I eagerly rushed to find him. My hand was just touching the doorknob when I heard familiar voices spilling out from inside the room. “Jax, how did you even come up with this fake amnesia stunt? It’s so messed up, it’s brilliant! Skylar will never see it coming! How long are you planning to string her along before you spill the beans?” Their cheerful laughter froze me in place, the smile on my face solidifying into a grimace. Jax was faking his amnesia?! What did all those nights of crying myself to sleep, agonizing over his supposed illness, even mean then?! A chilling dread spread through me. ### I clenched my jaw so hard it hurt, listening to Jax’s relaxed tone. “Just one more month of fun, then I’ll go back to Skylar and continue being her loving, devoted boyfriend.” His friends looked at him in disbelief. “One month? You’ve been doing this for months already! Why don’t you just break up with her? Nobody in our crowd stays with one girl for seven years! That’s unheard of for someone like you!” “Sneaking around with another woman, then putting on this whole amnesia charade just to avoid her anger? Aren’t you exhausted?” Jax’s smile slowly faded as he listened to their relentless teasing. “I will never break up with Skylar. She’s the only woman I truly love. It’s just… we’ve been together for so long, and honestly, things feel a bit stale. She’s just too reserved in bed, and I don’t want to pressure her. So this is like hitting the pause button, a little escape to let loose. After a month, I’ll go back to her, be her one and only.” “That’s easy for you to say, but she’s not the type to tolerate any nonsense. If she ever found out the truth, she wouldn’t just take it lying down. Aren’t you worried she’d break up with you and leave?” “Yeah, Brandon’s game totally backfired on him, his girlfriend ran off abroad, and now he’s chasing after her like a madman.” They spoke with such conviction, but Jax simply brushed it off. He swirled the drink in his hand, letting out a soft chuckle. “She’ll always be my woman, for life. As long as she’s called Skylar, even if she moves abroad or marries someone else, I’ll drag her back and keep her by my side forever.” At his arrogant certainty, everyone in the room cheered, “You’re the man, Jax!” and popped open a bottle of champagne. Numb and heavy-hearted, I dragged myself out of the bar, stumbling through the pouring rain. I didn’t even register the weather, just walked numbly into the downpour. The icy raindrops pelted my skin. My trembling hands could no longer hold it, and the small bottle of medicine suddenly slipped and crashed to the ground. Watching the painstakingly acquired memory-restoring pills wash away, long-dormant memories were violently reawakened. I first met Jax during my freshman year at the Winter Gala. I was the headliner, performing ‘Liebestraum,’ and I absolutely blew everyone away. Jax fell for me instantly. He showed up backstage with a huge bouquet of roses, declaring he wanted to pursue me. I’d already heard all about the school’s notorious heartthrob – the guy who’d already gone through countless girlfriends within the first month of school, his scandalous dating history legendary. I didn’t like playboys like Jax. My parents had both cheated, shattering our family, so I had extremely high standards for relationships, an intense aversion to any kind of infidelity. I ignored his advances, keeping my distance. But he clung to me like a madman, refusing to let go no matter how many times I rejected him. He even orchestrated a school-wide blackout so I could rest during my period, openly confessed his feelings in front of the entire school on the sports field, defiantly rejected every other girl’s confession… Day after day, for three years, he persisted, but I never gave in. It wasn’t until the summer after high school graduation, when a few thugs cornered me in an alley. Jax, to protect me, fought four or five of them, getting stabbed multiple times, almost losing his life for me. I cried hysterically at his hospital bedside, unable to comprehend how anyone could risk their life for another. In that moment, I thought, he’s the one. We were together for seven years, from our carefree school days to the grind of adulting. Jax always treated me with the same devotion. Everyone said he’d found true love and finally turned over a new leaf. I believed it too. Until three months before our wedding, he got into a car accident during a business trip and was diagnosed with amnesia. He remembered everyone, except me. The devastating news nearly broke me, but I held on. I scoured every possible lead, consulted countless doctors, and stayed up all night poring over every medical journal I could find, all to help him regain his memory sooner. But I never imagined this amnesia was nothing more than a carefully crafted deception. All the courage and determination that had sustained me were washed away by the downpour. Dazed and numb, I stumbled home, pulled out all my documents, and headed to the county clerk’s office. Facing the clerk’s questioning gaze, I spoke, my voice hoarse. “Hello, I’d like to change my name.” After reviewing my documents, the clerk handed me a pen. My hand trembling, I signed both my old and new names. Looking at the new name, a name no one knew, a terrible smile twisted my lips. From now on, no matter where I went, or what I did. Jax would never find me. ###

By the time I finished the paperwork, it was already dark. I hailed a cab and searched for flights on my phone. The name change application was submitted, but it would take another month for approval. So, I booked a flight to Melbourne for the first of next month and accepted the offer from the study abroad agency. Ever since graduation, I’d been preparing to study abroad for my postgraduate degree. But because Jax said he couldn’t live without me and didn’t want a long-distance relationship, my study plans had been delayed for three years. Now that I’d decided to cancel the wedding and end this relationship, everything from the past needed to be left behind. I had to start thinking about myself, about a new life. Back home, I changed out of my wet clothes, washed up, and went to bed. That night, I slept more soundly than I had in the entire past month. The next morning, I woke up, had breakfast, and then cleared out everything related to Jax. Gifts he’d given me, matching couple’s clothes we’d bought, love letters from our school days… They filled five boxes. I dragged them out of the villa, one by one, and dumped them all into the trash. As I was busy, a limited edition supercar suddenly pulled up by the curb. I heard it and turned, seeing Jax. He swaggered out of the car, an arm draped around a woman. Even when he saw me, he didn’t flinch. I knew he wasn’t avoiding me because he was banking on me being considerate, on me keeping my distance because I believed he was truly ill. From the very beginning, Jax had refused to acknowledge me as his girlfriend, even having my things thrown out of the villa. I thought I’d be out on the street, but then the owner of the house next door contacted me, saying they were moving abroad and offered to rent it to me for a ridiculously low price. I thought I’d gotten lucky then. Now, it was clear it was all just a show he’d orchestrated himself. He was afraid I’d really leave, so he used that trick to keep me close. Recalling the month I’d spent in the dark, I could only laugh at my foolishness. I didn’t care what charade he was putting on today. I turned, lifted the last box, and emptied it into the trash. Jax, walking by, glanced at the pile of things I’d discarded, and his face darkened. “Why are you throwing all this stuff away?” I shot him a sidelong glance, my voice flat. “Aren’t you supposed to have amnesia? How do you remember these things?” Jax suddenly realized he’d slipped up. He quickly recomposed his expression, feigning nonchalance. “Just asking. How could I remember? The past is the past, and now is now. Now, I only like Chloe. After all, she was the only one who came to take care of me after my car accident in South Bay.” Car accident? If the amnesia was an act, where was the car accident? I curved my lips slightly, eyeing the woman he had his arm around. Heavy makeup, a figure that screamed ‘look at me,’ and barely-there clothing. Her foxy eyes glittered with smug triumph. A new face. She was probably the most satisfying bedmate Jax had found during this ‘break,’ which was why he was parading her around so openly. I didn’t want to waste any more words on him. I just hummed in response and walked back into the villa. Watching my retreating figure disappear without a backward glance, Jax’s eyelid twitched. He’d brought someone else home. Shouldn’t Skylar be throwing a fit, getting jealous? Why was she so calm? Jax sensed something was off, but he didn’t chase after me to explain. He just watched me disappear behind the door. At eight o’clock, the doorbell rang. I put down the take-out bag I was holding and went to open the door. It was the woman Jax had brought home earlier. I lifted my hand and waved, a smile on my face that didn’t reach my eyes. “Hi, I’m Chloe. I’ll be staying at my boyfriend’s place for a while. Since we’re neighbors, would you mind adding me on SnapChat?” “No need.” I refused without a second thought, turning to leave. Chloe snatched my phone, rapidly tapping through SnapChat to add herself as a friend. Watching my face fall, she grinned like the Cheshire Cat, handed my phone back, her tone annoyingly flippant. “Come on, let’s be friends. We’ll be seeing a lot of each other! Oh, by the way, do you have any condoms? I used up the whole box I bought today. Could I borrow a few?” A flicker of pallor crossed my face, and my hand trembled slightly as I took back my phone. “No.” Chloe wouldn’t let it go, her mockery undisguised. “Right, silly me for asking. Jax doesn’t want you anymore, so why would you?” ###

I knew she was deliberately provoking me. I didn’t want to engage, so I reached for the front door to close it. Chloe grabbed the doorknob, then dramatically collapsed to the floor, tears instantly streaming down her face. “Sister, I know you don’t want to see me, but I just came to borrow some seasoning to make dinner for Jax. If you don’t want to lend it, that’s fine, but why would you hit me?” Watching Chloe suddenly put on such a show, my heart leaped. Before I could react, Jax, who must have entered the house at some point, rushed up the steps and swept her into his arms. He looked up, his eyes cold, his voice laced with suppressed anger. “Chloe has no quarrel with you. Why are you being so unreasonable? She’s my girlfriend now. Please be more respectful towards her!” After saying that, he didn’t even glance at my expression, just carried her away. Every word struck me, making my fists clench involuntarily. I stood there, watching their figures disappear into the twilight, then slowly raised my hand. Bang! The front door slammed shut. In the dead of night, my phone vibrated on the bedside table. Waking with a start, I rubbed my eyes and instinctively answered. The next second, the screen jumped, revealing a vast expanse of pale skin covered in hickeys. Intimate moans filled the air, punctuated by heavy, ragged breathing. Watching the shaky camera capture explicit, nauseating scenes, I was instantly wide awake. Realizing what the person on the other end of the line was doing, I froze like a statue. A few seconds later, Jax’s low, lust-thickened voice came through the speaker. “From now on, you’re not allowed to provoke Skylar next door.” “You’ve seen right through my little games, so why are you still on my side? Is it because you just love my body so much you don’t want to come clean to her? You want to keep enjoying this, huh?” At her seductive whine, Jax grunted, then spanked her pale ass. “Since you already know, why ask? Come on, get on top.” After some rustling, the camera focused on Jax’s face. Watching his unabashedly satisfied expression, my heart turned to ice. I bit down hard on my lower lip, the metallic taste of blood spreading through my mouth. The gasping grew more frantic. Finally, I couldn’t take it anymore and pressed the hang-up button. My drowsy eyes were now swimming in tears. I tilted my head back, desperate not to let them fall, as countless images flashed through my mind. During our intimate moments, he was always so careful, so afraid I’d be uncomfortable. He probably overthought everything, and was never truly satisfied, was he? Now he wouldn’t have to hold back. He wouldn’t have to scheme just to steal a moment of pleasure. From now on, I would give him his freedom. For the next few days, I stayed holed up in the house. Not until my best friend’s wedding day did I manage to compose myself enough to leave. At the hotel, before the ceremony began, I gave her the gift I’d prepared. We chatted for a while, and Maya held my hand, her eyes sparkling. “Skylar, I sent Jax an invitation, and he promised to come. When he gets here, go talk to him. Maybe he’ll remember proposing to you and his memory will come back.” I paused for a moment, then shook my head. Seeing the smile slowly vanish from my face, a flicker of worry crossed Maya’s eyes. “What’s wrong? Are you giving up?” I was about to answer when I saw Jax, with Chloe by his side, appear at the entrance. Maya followed my gaze, and seeing them arm in arm, her face flushed with anger. She was about to march over in her high heels to confront them. I quickly pulled her back, my voice heavy with exhaustion. “Forget it. Soon, it’ll all be over.” Maya didn’t understand what I meant. She was about to ask when a bridesmaid came over. “The wedding’s about to start, Maya.” After much persuasion, I finally got my best friend to go up to the stage. Listening to the wedding march begin in the ballroom, I took a deep breath and returned to the main hall. The guests had all taken their seats; only the spot beside Jax remained empty. After a moment of hesitation, I went and sat down. Throughout the wedding, Chloe clung to Jax, asking him to serve her food. He responded to her every request, pouring her wine, blowing on her soup, utterly doting. Even when I fed him a piece of dessert I’d already bitten into, he ate it without a second thought. Watching their intimate display, I looked away, towards the center of the stage. I hadn’t eaten and hadn’t touched my forks, so Maya’s mom forked some food onto my plate, urging me to eat more. I didn’t want to be rude, so I picked up a dumpling. Jax, sitting beside me, saw it and immediately reached out and took the dumpling away. “Are you crazy? That’s seafood. You’re allergic, you can’t eat that.” ###

Watching the dumpling roll several times on the floor, I looked up, giving him a long, hard stare. Jax then belatedly realized what he’d done, and his expression grew awkward as he quickly offered an explanation. “The housekeeper at home never buys seafood. I’ve told her several times. She must have mentioned it.” After that, he didn’t dare look at my face again, turning instead to peel shrimp. Chloe leaned in close to his ear, whispering something I couldn’t quite catch. Whatever she said, Jax’s Adam’s apple bobbed. He put down the shrimp and, grabbing my arm, led me out of the ceremony. I didn’t care where they went. Not until the bouquet toss was over did I get up to use the restroom. As I reached the door, I heard loud, rhythmic slapping sounds coming from inside. I stopped, holding my breath. After a few minutes of silence, a low male voice came from the innermost stall. “God, you’re so wild. You wear clothes like that to a wedding, huh?” “Don’t you like it?” A soft gasp, followed by a light chuckle. “Of course, I like it.” I looked up at the sign above the door, my fingernails digging deeply into my palms. Footsteps echoed down the hallway, and the restroom fell silent again. I took one last look at the tightly closed stall, my eyes red, then turned and left. At three o’clock that afternoon, the wedding ended. After saying goodbye to Maya, I went downstairs. Stepping out of the elevator, I saw a familiar sports car parked on the street. I pretended not to notice, about to hail a cab, when Chloe, appearing out of nowhere, grabbed my arm. “Jax had company business and left, leaving his car for me. We live close by, want a ride?” I refused without a second thought. But Chloe ignored me, forcefully pushing me into the passenger seat, locking the doors, and stepping on the gas. She drove fast, so I quickly fastened my seatbelt. All the way, Chloe, under the guise of casual conversation, constantly boasted and provoked me. “You knew Jax was faking his amnesia all along, didn’t you? Why didn’t you call him out?” My eyes narrowed for a brief moment, my face impassive. “None of your business.” “How is it none of my business? I want to stand openly by Jax’s side and be his fiancée too. Even if he doesn’t feel that way now, you know how much he loves my body. He’ll fall for me eventually, don’t you think?” I didn’t bother responding, just looked out the window. Seeing I wouldn’t take the bait, Chloe got angry and threw out a few more taunts. I simply closed my eyes, pretending she wasn’t even there. This blatant disregard infuriated Chloe. Looking at the upcoming turn, I hardened my resolve, jerked the steering wheel hard, and crashed straight into the barrier. “Bang—” Under the violent impact, I lunged forward uncontrollably. I opened my eyes to a shower of glass shards, instinctively raising my arms to shield myself. Crimson blood streamed down my arm. My head hit the side door with a violent thud, and my vision went black. I passed out. I don’t know how much time passed, but a cacophony of voices slowly reached my ears. “Both patients’ hands require immediate surgery, but the hospital only has one surgeon available. The patient who doesn’t receive timely treatment might suffer permanent disability. Mr. Sterling, who do you want us to save?” Hearing those words, I forced myself to consciousness, squeezing out a few words from my throat. “Jax, I… I still need to… to do photography. My hands… they can’t… they can’t have any problems.” The warm hand that had been holding my left hand suddenly released me when it heard my voice. I managed to open my eyes just in time to catch a fleeting look of panic on Jax’s face. He placed his hand on Chloe’s shoulder, his voice firm. “Save Chloe first.” ###

I don’t know how long I kept falling in the darkness, but finally, some consciousness returned. Perhaps it was the anesthesia, but I couldn’t open my eyes yet. All I could hear were sounds around me. It was a conversation between two people, their voices strangely familiar. “Jax, you’ve made such a huge mess. How are you going to clean it up? Skylar’s hands are more important than her life, and you chose to save Chloe first? Are you trying to kill her?” “How could I want to kill Skylar? It’s just that she happened to wake up. If I had agreed to save her first, wouldn’t the fake amnesia have been exposed? There are only twenty-something days left. I just wanted to play a little longer, Skylar won’t be hurt.” “Won’t be hurt? Didn’t you hear the doctor? Another minute late into surgery, and her hand would have been completely ruined. What if she wakes up and finds out the truth? Then you and her will have no chance left at all.” The person holding my hand seemed very nervous; their palm was sweating. A few minutes later, he pressed a kiss to my forehead, his voice filled with certainty. “She won’t know. I’ve made arrangements. In twenty-three days, the doctor will announce that my memory has returned. Then everything will be just like before.” After a long sigh, someone left the room. The other person remained by my bedside, murmuring softly. “Skylar, our wedding is coming soon. I’ve already ordered the rings. You’ll see them the day my memory returns.” “After we get our marriage license, how about I take you to see the Northern Lights? Do you remember the wish you made on a shooting star for our third anniversary?” “When you said you wanted to be with me forever, I was so happy. I want to grow old with you too.” The anesthesia was slowly wearing off. I remembered who this rambling person was. My fiancé, Jax. He seemed to care for me deeply, calling the doctor every half hour to check on me. He would thoughtfully offer me water, tuck me into bed, and stayed by my side constantly. Until I fully woke up. All the tenderness he’d poured over me receded like a tide. Watching his evasive figure leave the room, a hint of sarcasm flickered in my eyes. A few minutes later, the nurse came in to check on me. I watched as she carefully tried to conceal my medical chart, then spoke in a hoarse voice. “Who has been taking care of me here these past few days?” The nurse’s gaze darted around a few times, and she stammered in response. “I… I’m not entirely sure. It should be… a nursing aide, I guess.” I just felt tired. I picked up my phone and checked the time. December 8th. I had been unconscious for three days. My texts still only contained ads and billing notifications. I closed my eyes, silently praying for my name change paperwork to be processed quickly. For a long time after that, Jax didn’t appear. Chloe, however, sent me many messages every day. Half were various provocations and photos of her flaunting her relationship. The other half were SnapChat videos of her and Jax in bed, in various locations. I didn’t open a single one, setting her to ‘Do Not Disturb’ immediately. On December 15th, I completed the discharge procedures. I discarded everything else, carrying only my medication as I left the hospital. Just as I reached the entrance, I happened to run into Liam, a senior from college who had once pursued me. We exchanged pleasantries, and as I was chatting happily, Jax, appearing out of nowhere, grabbed my arm and pulled me away. His face was dark enough to drip ink, his eyes shadowed with anger, his voice laced with bitterness. “Who gave you permission to be so close to him?” I glanced at him, then forcefully pulled my wrist, which was already red from his grip, away. My voice dripped with sarcasm. “Aren’t you supposed to have amnesia? Aren’t you supposed to not acknowledge me as your girlfriend? I’ll chat with whoever I want. I don’t think it’s any of your business, is it?” With that, I didn’t wait for his reaction, hailed a cab, and left. Jax, speechless and cornered, could only watch me drive away. ###

After a period of rest, I slowly recovered. In my spare time, I did a rough calculation of my overseas expenses and realized the sum was quite substantial. Luckily, a loyal client referred me to a big gig, and having nothing else to do, I took it. When I arrived at the venue, I realized it was a birthday party. Seeing Jax appear with Chloe, I froze, a bad premonition gripping me. But the deposit had already been collected. I could only suppress my uneasy feelings and take out my camera. Seeing me, Chloe immediately hiked up her dress and came sauntering over, a saccharine smile plastered on her face. “So glad you’re here. For the photos, try to shoot from a low angle, upward, and dim the brightness a bit. When I get on stage, zoom in closer…” Following her long list of demands, I took hundreds of photos. But Chloe still wasn’t satisfied and insisted I reshoot them. I patiently reshot three or four versions, my injured wrist throbbing with pain. Chloe glanced at it, a mocking expression on her face. “How did they turn out like this? Skylar, the great photographer, it seems you’re not as amazing as the rumors say, huh? Let’s just use the first batch, at least a few of those are presentable.” Everyone around us stifled their laughter. I rubbed my knees, numb from squatting, and slowly stood up, letting out a soft “hmm.” Chloe grew even more smug, walking over to Jax and throwing herself affectionately into his arms. Then she turned back to me, waving her hand imperiously. “Come take some photos of my boyfriend and me.” My eyes narrowed, then quickly reverted to their usual coldness. I raised my camera, aimed the lens at them, and pressed the shutter. Chloe struck a million poses, then finally, she stood on tiptoe and kissed Jax. Instantly, the entire room erupted in cheers. “Total power couple! Watching them is just eye candy, seriously!” “Throwing such a huge party without a second thought, and Jax agrees to everything the birthday queen wants. He spoils her rotten!” At the sound of the cheers, Jax’s body stiffened for a moment. He released his arm from Chloe’s waist, looking at me with a hint of nervousness. But I showed no reaction, simply looking down at the photos on my camera. As if completely unfazed by what had just happened. At eleven o’clock, the four-hour party finally concluded. I put my camera back in its bag, pulling out tissues to wipe away the cake Chloe had ‘accidentally’ spilled on my dress. In the now-empty hall, footsteps suddenly echoed. I looked up to see Chloe, grinning, walking straight towards me. “You worked hard tonight. Are you really short on cash? I have another set of photos I’d like you to take. I can double the price. Are you interested?” Double the price? I hesitated for a moment, then nodded. Chloe led me directly to the hotel upstairs, setting up the shooting angles and content first. I had just set up my camera in the corner when someone knocked on the door. Chloe didn’t rush to open it. Instead, she gave me a knowing smile. “It’s about to begin. Make sure you get everything, okay?” With that, she pulled the curtains, covering the corner, leaving only a small slit for the camera lens. I curled up in the cramped space, listening to the approaching footsteps, and hunched forward. Under the warm yellow light, Chloe, pulling a man’s tie, slowly walked into the room. Their bodies were pressed tightly together, clothes falling to the floor intermittently. Ambiguous gasps filled the air. Watching Jax, utterly lost in his passionate kiss with Chloe through the lens, my hand gripping the tripod tightened into a fist. He didn’t know I was in the room, roughly exploring Chloe’s body, eliciting a string of soft moans. “What tricks do you have planned for tonight?” “Everything you love, honey. I even have several outfits waiting for you to tear off.” “You’re so wild, you’ll be the death of me.” The surging passion in the room grew more intense. Listening to the relentless sounds, I was numb. It felt as though something was lodged in my chest, a crushing pressure that made it difficult to breathe. Time stretched, agonizingly slow. Every second felt like an eternity. ###

At three in the morning, the sounds from the room ceased. The shower turned on in the bathroom. I pulled back the curtain, dragging my numb legs out of the corner. Stepping over the scattered clothes, I placed the memory card on the table and opened the door. A soft click. From the bathroom, a low voice called out, “What was that sound? Is someone there?” “How could there be anyone at this hour? Forget it, let’s go again.” The bathroom door, which had been slightly ajar, closed tightly once more. I looked back at my reflection in the glass, then turned and closed the door behind me. The streets were empty in the early morning, not a single car in sight. I wandered aimlessly, my ears ringing, my mind blank. I don’t know how long I walked, but by the time dawn broke, I realized I had unconsciously returned to my high school alma mater. The campus was quiet at seven. I walked alone down the path, a little dazed as I looked around. Some long-buried memories slowly stirred. The track where Jax pulled me to run an 800-meter race, the small auditorium filled with roses for my birthday, the flagpole where he confessed his love in front of the whole school… Everything was just as it had been, yet my heart, standing there, was vastly different. I reached the teaching building and ran into Dean Miller, who was just coming to work. Because Jax had so openly pursued me, almost all the teachers knew me. The Dean smiled and greeted me. “Skylar? What brings you back to school so suddenly? Where’s Jax? I heard you two got engaged a while ago. Are you here to give out wedding invitations?” I forced a faint smile, changing the subject. “It’s been so long since I’ve been back. I was just passing by and thought I’d come see the teachers.” We walked and chatted, reminiscing about many old stories, filled with emotion. Before we parted, the Dean seemed to remember something. He went to his office cabinet and pulled out a yellowed diary, handing it to me. “I confiscated this from Jax during study hall back then when I was checking on discipline. Since your wedding is coming up, I figured I’d return it to you.” I paused, then took it, bowing to the teacher. On the way back, I opened the diary and saw Jax’s wild, flowing handwriting. “March 12th, Skylar didn’t say yes, but she smiled at me today. I think I have a chance.” “July 1st, summer vacation is too long. I waited four hours outside Skylar’s house just to catch a glimpse of her.” “November 23rd, someone confessed to Skylar today. It infuriated me. I beat him up and got a disciplinary warning.” “December 21st, today is my seventeenth birthday. Seventeen-year-old Jax’s only wish is to be with sixteen-year-old her, forever and always.” … Every page held the same name, chronicling a boy’s heart. As I read, my nose stung, and tears streamed down my face uncontrollably. Drop by drop, they were both a remembrance of the past. And a farewell. By the time the cab pulled up to the villa, I had composed my tumultuous emotions. I closed the diary, opened the car door, and found myself face-to-face with Jax, who had just returned. Seeing the crimson hickeys on his neck, and recalling what had happened last night, I averted my gaze. Jax noticed my red eyes and frowned, wondering how to subtly ask about it. Chloe, nestled in his arms, also saw my red eyes and chuckled softly. “You worked hard yesterday. I already transferred the money. I’m very satisfied with the photos you took. You should be satisfied too, shouldn’t you?” Hearing her veiled remark, Jax’s heart skipped a beat. “Satisfied with what?” “The birthday photos from the first half of the night, what else? As for the second half of the night…” Seeing her blabbering mouth, Jax’s heart sank. He quickly covered her mouth with his hand. But she just gave him a coquettish wink and gently sucked on his finger. Watching their public display of affection, I was immune. I turned and walked towards my house. As I passed the trash can, I casually tossed the diary into it. Those youthful years, filled with love and sincerity, were now completely buried. ###

Before leaving, I sent a message to my landlord, informing them I wouldn’t be renewing the lease. The landlord kept asking why I was moving, and I just gave a casual excuse. They said they could extend the grace period, letting me stay until mid-next month. I knew Jax was behind it. He wanted me to stay a few more days, then he would pretend to regain his memory and bring me home. I didn’t expose their scheme and agreed. Three days before my departure, I received an unfamiliar call. “Ms. Skylar? Hello, I’m the manager of the Hilton Hotel, where you held your engagement party. Your fiancé previously booked our main hall, saying he planned to hold your wedding reception here the day after tomorrow, but we haven’t been able to reach him recently. There are some details we need to verify and finalize. Would you be free to come by and chat?” I was about to refuse, but when I heard the date “the day after tomorrow,” my eyelashes fluttered. January 1st. It was the day Jax planned to “regain his memory,” and also the day I planned to leave. I agreed and took a cab to the hotel. The moment I stepped into the hall and saw the decorations, I fell silent. From the flowers to the ornaments, everything was exactly the same as when Jax proposed to me. Standing there, I momentarily lost track of time. The manager, who had accompanied me in, was about to explain when he received a call and temporarily left. I walked alone to the second floor, looking down, and couldn’t help but recall Jax on one knee, holding flowers and a ring, promising to love only me for the rest of his life. Back then, I had eagerly anticipated our married life. Who would have thought that just three months later, everything would vanish into thin air? As I was lost in thought, the door suddenly opened. Jax, in a suit, walked in holding a bouquet of flowers. Chloe, following behind him, gasped at the dreamy scene before her, a flicker of anticipation in her eyes. “Jax, why did you bring me here?” Jax snapped his fingers, a smug, triumphant smile on his face. “This is where I proposed to Skylar and held our engagement party. The day after tomorrow, I plan to have a few of my buddies bring Skylar here. Then I can pretend that seeing the place ‘triggers’ my memories, and I’ll naturally recall everything.” “I brought you here today because I wanted to do a rehearsal. You’ll play Skylar, and we’ll see if there are any glitches.” With that, he pushed Chloe onto the center stage and began to act. A massive pillar completely hid me from view. I quietly watched their fervent performance, my eyes subtly shifting. I had to admit, Jax truly had a talent for acting. If I hadn’t known any of this, and came here in three days, I might actually have fallen for his trick. Fortunately, I wasn’t that unlucky. Downstairs, the ‘reconciliation’ part of the rehearsal had begun. Chloe stood on tiptoe and kissed Jax. The deeply romantic atmosphere slowly took a turn from that moment on. His pristine white suit was smeared with lipstick, and her pink long dress, along with his clothes, lay scattered on the floor. Jax gripped her soft waist, his voice light and languid. “Anyone could walk in here at any moment. You just can’t resist tempting me, can you?” “Only three days left. Don’t you know ‘a night of passion is worth a thousand pieces of gold’? Besides, doing it in the most important venue of your life, isn’t that exciting?” Seeing her alluring, passionate expression, Jax narrowed his eyes and chuckled softly. “So many tricks up your sleeve, huh?” “How else am I supposed to make sure you remember me, honey? If you go back to her and don’t feel satisfied, you can always hit me up.” Hearing that, Jax raised his hand, cupping her chin, a clear light in his eyes. His voice was filled with absolute certainty. “There won’t be a ‘next time.’ In three days, everything will be over. I will belong only to Skylar.” Really? I lowered my eyes, hiding the mockery within them, and answered him in my heart. Too bad, Jax. I don’t want you anymore. ### Two days before my departure, I received news that my name change application had been approved. I went out and collected my new ID card and passport.

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The Day She Killed Me After thirty days of the silent treatment from my wife, Janet, she suddenly proposed a trip to mend our relationship. But the moment we landed, she snapped my ID card in half, smashed my phone, and stranded me on a deserted island, leaving me to my own devices. Someone asked her if she wasn’t going too far, but she just stroked her belly, a look of disdain on her face. “It’s his own fault for being so petty. I just wanted to have an IVF baby for Ryan, to leave him a child, and he started screaming for a divorce.” “The baby’s due in eight months. The island has fresh water and food. He won’t starve, it’s just a little hardship.” Eight months later, cradling her newborn son, Janet looked utterly content. She asked her assistant, for the first time in ages: “It’s been so long, hasn’t he been begging to come home?” She didn’t know I died on the very first day on that island. When I opened my eyes again, my soul was in Janet’s delivery room. Janet, her face pale, held the baby tenderly, her eyes full of maternal love. Her childhood sweetheart, Ryan, wiped the sweat from Janet’s forehead, overflowing with gratitude. “Janet, thank you. We have a son.” I felt a dizzying wave of realization. I’d been dead for *that* long. Her and Ryan’s baby was already here. As Janet was wheeled out, a crowd swarmed around her, celebrating the birth, popping confetti and showering her with gifts and cash. “Janet, this baby is so adorable, a perfect blend of you and Ryan! He’s going to be such a handsome man when he grows up!” These same people, who used to suck up to me as “Janet’s husband,” angrily claimed her IVF decision was wrong, and mocked Ryan for being a phony. Well, they only flattered me because I was Janet’s husband. A faint smile played on Janet’s lips, but her eyes kept darting to the end of the hall, a restless flicker in their depths. Distractedly, she picked up her phone and checked it. Then, she frowned, asking her assistant: “Didn’t I tell you to buy him a new phone? Why hasn’t he contacted me these past few months, or begged to come home?” Mr. Jones calmly lied: “Mr. Liam always curses you and Mr. Ryan, saying he doesn’t want any contact with you.” Janet’s frown deepened, a frustrated crease forming between her brows: “He’s so incredibly stubborn, never listens to reason.” “Tell him I’ve had the baby, my mission is complete.” “If he sincerely calls to apologize and agrees to be the child’s godfather, I’ll bring him back home.” A bitter, self-deprecating laugh escaped me. Even in death, I felt the sting of it. She had no idea I was already long gone. Nine months ago, Janet gave up on our child, just to make room for her IVF baby with Ryan. She said Ryan had a terminal illness and she wanted to leave him a child. A cold despair settled in my chest, and I suggested divorce. For that, Janet gave me the silent treatment for a month, then, uncharacteristically, approached me. She proposed a trip to repair our relationship, promising to abort the IVF baby when we returned. I believed her, only to be abandoned on that island, where I swiftly perished. Snapping back to the present, Ryan whimpered pitifully: “Janet, if Liam comes back, he won’t hit me again, right? You can hurt me, but please, don’t hurt our baby!” He lowered his head, angling it to reveal a tiny scar on his forehead. That scar was from when I found out about Janet’s IVF. Ryan had provoked me, then deliberately smashed his own head against a wall. Because of that incident, Janet hated me, believing I would even bully a terminally ill patient. Janet’s heart twisted with pain, and she snapped at him: “If he dares to lay a hand on you two, I’ll make sure he never comes back!” Everyone burst into laughter: “Janet, you’re still as protective of Ryan as ever. Now that the baby’s born, I remember you two were engaged as kids, it’s perfect!” “That’s right, Janet! A child needs a complete mother’s and father’s love! Liam’s so petty and extreme, I’m genuinely afraid he might harm the baby!” Janet didn’t respond. She just clenched her fingers, then looked up at Mr. Jones: “Did you send the message? What did he reply?” The next second, Janet’s phone, lying beside her, rang. Janet’s eyes lit up, thinking it was me. She smirked triumphantly: “Liam, you finally…” The words from the other end left her frozen: “Excuse me, are you Mr. Liam’s wife? We were wondering if you have time to pick up a rosary from the church.” Janet asked back: “What rosary?” The person on the other end sighed, a devout tone in their voice: “A year ago, Mr. Liam came to our church, praying fervently for his critically ill wife’s safety. Later, he came back to give thanks, saying his wife had recovered and was even pregnant. We specially gave him a rosary to bless his child, but we haven’t been able to reach him for months.” 2. When Janet was diagnosed with late-stage heart failure, I tried everything to cure her. I even prayed to God for blessings, bowing my head so many times I bled, all for Janet’s well-being. Later, I returned to give thanks, full of joy, believing we had overcome the ordeal. But in the end, I lost everything, left with nothing. I clutched at the sharp, aching phantom pain in my chest, a self-mocking laugh escaping me. Even an artificial heart, it seemed, could feel such pain. Everyone paused, stunned by the revelation: “I never would’ve thought Liam was so devoted. When you had heart failure, we all assumed he ran off, afraid of the responsibility. It seems we misunderstood Liam…” Janet suddenly clutched her own heart, biting her lip so hard it turned white. After catching her breath, she let out a cold laugh: “No need. What rosary? Throw it away.” With that, she hung up. She lowered her gaze, gritting her teeth: “This is the difference between Liam and Ryan.” “Liam only does superficial things, but Ryan saved me with his life! If Ryan hadn’t given me his heart, I’d be dead already!” “Ryan is dying because of it, but Liam? All he knows is being petty and jealous, even threatening divorce over a trivial matter!” My mouth felt bitter. The one who donated their heart to Janet was *me*. The doctors told me that even with an expensive artificial heart transplant, and daily medication, I’d only live another year or two with current technology. I didn’t regret it. Instead, I was grateful for the time I had left. But when I woke from my coma, I found Janet tearfully thanking Ryan for his sacrifice. I tried to explain, to tell her the truth, but she accused me of trying to steal credit. It wasn’t until Janet became pregnant that our relationship softened. That was because when Ryan visited Janet, he clutched his heart, a forlorn look on his face, and said: “It’s a shame. I don’t have long to live. I probably won’t be able to have my own child, or even see your baby, Janet.” Janet, without hesitation, decided to have a child for Ryan. That’s what led to the subsequent tragedy. Listening to Janet’s accusations, everyone exchanged glances, and the air in the room thickened with tension. To lighten the mood, someone cheerfully turned on the TV: “Janet, you just gave birth, don’t get too upset. Relax a little.” But as fate would have it, a news report came on: “A drone patrol discovered a skeletal male corpse on a deserted island in the Pacific. This is a breakthrough in drone technology’s…” Janet’s head snapped up, her eyes widening in stark horror. “Which island?” Someone meekly offered: “Janet, I heard that small island you took Liam to is somewhere around those coordinates…” Janet’s brow furrowed so deeply, you could almost tie it in a knot. A storm was brewing in her eyes. A subtle, predatory glint sparked in Ryan’s eyes. He gently stroked Janet’s back: “There are many similar islands, aren’t there? But that skeleton looks remarkably intact, almost like a model from a hospital.” Janet snapped back to reality, letting out a cold laugh: “Hmph, Liam used to fake a heart condition to manipulate people. Now he’s even found a skeleton model to scare me? He has too much time on his hands! I must have made him too comfortable!” Turning, she instructed Mr. Jones: “From now on, you are not allowed to agree to Liam’s ridiculous demands! I said to just give him basic survival supplies, you’re enabling his nonsense!” Mr. Jones’s cold sweat beaded on his forehead, and he nodded, affirming. I knew why he was guilty. After throwing me onto that deserted island, Janet flew away in a helicopter without a second thought. Physically and mentally exhausted, my artificial heart couldn’t take the strain. I had just pulled out my medication, intending to take it. It was Mr. Jones who kicked my life-saving pills, sending them tumbling into the sea, a look of utter contempt on his face. “Ms. Janet is right, you really love to act, still pretending to have heart trouble!” “You, you’ll spend the rest of your life on this island. Ms. Janet is going to have a baby with Mr. Ryan, why would she ever come back for you!” After saying that, he led everyone away from the deserted island with a sneer. Eventually, I painfully clawed at the ground. My fingertips were bloody and mangled, my heart stopped beating, and I died tragically in that foreign land. My body was left exposed to the wind and sun, torn apart by scavengers. Even now, that feeling of my heart being squeezed tight felt sickeningly real. Janet’s mood, for some reason, suddenly plummeted. Her expression was icy as she turned over and pulled the blanket over herself, dismissing everyone. “You can all leave now. I’m tired.” Everyone exchanged glances and walked out of the hospital room. Only Ryan remained, cradling the baby and gently holding Janet’s hand, which lay outside the blanket, hooked up to an IV drip. Since it was a natural birth, Janet was able to get out of bed and discharged within two days. 3. Ryan followed Janet home like a shadow, holding the baby and pleading pitifully: “Janet, I know you’ve hired a nanny, but I’m the baby’s father. I have a responsibility to care for you both.” Afraid she wouldn’t agree, he quickly added: “I’ll be very discreet. I won’t touch anything in the house, and Liam will never know I’ve been here!” Janet’s fingers, clenching her purse strap, turned white with the force, a conflicted look on her face. Ryan then clutched his chest, his voice weak and tearful: “Janet, I’m dying. I don’t have many chances left to be with you and our son. Can you please give me this opportunity?” After a long silence, Janet finally nodded slowly. Watching the sly, triumphant smirk spread across Ryan’s face, I gave a bitter, empty laugh. Janet and I once made a promise: no matter what, we would never bring outsiders into our home, our sanctuary. Yet now, she let Ryan in. He was always the exception, it seemed. As Janet opened the door, our small dog, Lucky, bounded up to greet her. But noticing a stranger, he immediately started barking defensively, shielding Janet behind him. The baby, startled by the barking, began to cry loudly. Janet frowned: “Lucky, be good!” Ryan, however, smiled warmly, though his eyes held no warmth: “It’s okay, Janet. I love dogs too.” Saying this, he crouched down and roughly ruffled Lucky’s head. Lucky was usually gentle, his barking merely a way to scare people off, so he didn’t bite Ryan’s hand. Janet couldn’t help but sigh: “Ryan, you’re still as kind as ever.” Only I saw clearly that Ryan’s palm was tightly clutching a handful of Lucky’s yellow-and-white fur. How much pain must Lucky have been in! Hearing Lucky let out a pained whimper, Janet’s expression changed, and she grew instantly annoyed: “This dog is just like its owner, always unruly and ungrateful!” She pulled Ryan away, cradling the baby, and walked inside. Lucky, meanwhile, sat forlornly by the door, chewing on a bouncy ball I used to play with him, seemingly waiting for me. My nose stung with a sudden ache. Lucky was just a rescue dog, but Janet and I had rescued him together when we were dating. He had been abandoned soon after birth, and Janet and I had taken turns staying up all night, bottle-feeding him, raising him as if he were our own child. He still didn’t know that his dad was never coming back. Upstairs, Janet handed the baby to the wet nurse, then turned to call Mr. Davies, giving him detailed instructions: “Mr. Davies, Ryan can’t handle spicy food, no onions or garlic for him. Make sure the kitchen pays attention. Also, he only sleeps on silk sheets, otherwise he’ll get a rash…” Janet rattled on, remembering all of Ryan’s preferences as if they had been married for ten years. I used to be jealous of her and Ryan’s childhood bond, but now, it seemed I had underestimated just how deep it went. Ryan, pretending not to know these things, used the excuse of going to the restroom and quietly snuck into Janet’s and my bedroom. Lucky, seeing a stranger enter his parents’ room, curiously followed Ryan upstairs. Ryan sneered at our wedding photo on the dresser, then picked up a marker and defaced my face. Noticing Lucky nipping at his pant leg, Ryan jumped in surprise. The next second, a look of brutal rage on his face, he kicked the dog with full force. Lucky, a mere ten-pound dog, was sent flying against the wall by the heavy kick, then crumpled to the floor. His limbs twitched a few times, blood oozing from his mouth, and he whimpered softly. My eyes burned with fury. I rushed to Lucky’s side, but my soul passed through his body again and again, powerless. Ryan’s pale, gaunt face was twisted with madness. He let out a mocking laugh: “A loyal pet, are we? Then I’ll send you to meet your master in heaven!” I froze. Ryan knew I was dead. Could Mr. Jones be working for him? Recalling Mr. Jones’s disgust towards me, and how he relentlessly slandered me, I clenched my fists. Just then, Janet, hearing the commotion, walked into the room. Her eyes immediately landed on Lucky, still weakly twitching by the wall. 4. Ryan immediately faked tears: “I’m so sorry, Janet! The dog bit me, and my heart suddenly ached. I accidentally kicked it. It’s all my fault for being clumsy! Lucky’s not hurt, is he?” Janet pursed her lips, forcing her gaze away from Lucky. “As long as *you’re* okay. How do you feel now? Where did he bite you?” “Pets carry germs; it’s not good for the baby. I’ve wanted to send him away for a long time. You’ve actually done me a huge favor.” With that, she ordered Mr. Davies, with a look of disgust, to take the dog to the vet. Ryan, however, wasn’t entirely satisfied, his lips twisting slightly. But he quickly composed himself, pulling at Janet’s sleeve: “It’s good the dog is okay. If Liam found out, he’d skin me alive! I wouldn’t be able to make it up to him even if I died!” Anyone unfamiliar with the situation would have thought I had abused him in the past. But Janet’s eyes filled with tenderness, and she softly comforted him: “If he dares to do anything, I’ll make sure he knows what living hell feels like.” Ryan paused, then tentatively asked: “Janet, my parents want to see Leo more often. Will you come with me to visit them tomorrow?” Janet nodded: “Of course. The child is meant to be raised by them anyway.” Ryan’s chest heaved. He reached out to grasp Janet’s hand, whining playfully: “Janet, why are you becoming so distant with me? We—” Janet, however, pulled her hand away, a hint of coolness in her voice: “The guest room is ready. You should get some rest. Leo has been fussy these past few days, and you haven’t been sleeping well either.” But it was Janet who lay sleepless through the night. Every now and then, she’d pull out her phone and open my SnapChat chat. My last message was still there, from eight months ago, my reply of “Okay” to her invitation for a trip abroad. A sudden flutter of panic seized her. I worried about Lucky’s health, but my soul couldn’t stray too far from Janet. I could only stare at Lucky’s dog food and toys, lost in thought. The next second, Janet suddenly walked beside me. My heart lurched. I watched as she crouched down and opened Lucky’s favorite dog food. Then, she opened my SnapChat chat. “Liam, I’ve handled everything. Come home, Lucky misses you.” Janet, for once, was softening. But I couldn’t instantly reply this time. I could never reply to her messages again. Just then, Mr. Davies opened the door and returned. Janet saw his empty hands and asked: “Where’s the dog?” Mr. Davies hesitated: “Six ribs broken, pierced his heart. He didn’t make it at the hospital… Miss, should we have him cremated?” A searing pain tore through my spectral chest. When we named him, Janet had said gently: “Of course, we’ll call him Lucky. We’re his mom and dad, the closest people in his tiny world. We have to protect him and keep him safe his whole life!” Lucky, Lucky… yet he couldn’t live a single safe life. Janet stood frozen, her fingertips trembling. After a long moment, she found her voice: “Okay.” “Mr. Davies, please find me an identical dog. When Liam comes home in a few days and doesn’t see Lucky, he’ll make a fuss again.” A phantom spasm seized my dead heart. She had money to burn; she could find a similar dog. But our love? That could never be replaced. The next day, Janet was somewhat distracted on the way to Ryan’s parents’ house, merely patting Leo’s crying form dismissively. She pursed her lips, sending a message to Mr. Davies: “Haven’t found it yet? Hurry up.” When she looked up again, she saw the decorations in Ryan’s parents’ house and her eyes widened in shock. I watched the scene before me, a bitter laugh on my lips. The place was festooned with streamers and decorations. A red carpet was laid on the floor. Bluetooth speakers blared “Today I’m Gonna Marry You.” Most striking of all, directly facing the front door, was a banner: “Janet, please marry me!” The house was packed with Janet’s and Ryan’s friends and family, all looking at them with eager anticipation. Janet tightened her arms around Leo, who struggled and cried out loud. Ryan’s father, however, chuckled: “Janet, you and Ryan grew up together. You and that poor Liam were never a good match. Now that you have a child, isn’t it time you married Ryan?” Ryan knelt on one knee, pulling out a sparkling diamond ring, his voice dripping with emotion: “Janet, I know I don’t have long to live, but I want to give our child a complete father’s love. I want him to know he was born out of love, not as a child with no name or status!” “Please, marry me. I want to protect you and our son until my last breath!” At this, everyone began to chant in unison: “Say yes! Marry him!” My spectral heart twisted with a bitter ache. So it had come to this day. Janet, however, scowled, slapping the diamond ring out of Ryan’s hand:

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My husband’s ex-girlfriend, Candace, had illegally operated in financial trades, causing my clients colossal losses. In their fury, they brutally mangled my hands, leaving me permanently disabled. I was rushed to the hospital. In my last hazy moments of consciousness, I heard Julian, my husband, whisper to the doctor: “Just save her life. As for her hands… they’d be better off useless.” The doctor, confused, replied: “But Ms. Scarlett’s hands can still be saved!” Julian’s voice was cold, like it had been dipped in ice: “Only if her hands are ruined will she completely exit the trading market. That way, Candace can finally become Chief Analyst this year.” “Once the storm passes, I’ll spend my entire life making it up to her.” “Isn’t being Mrs. Julian more valuable than a mere analyst’s career?” The anesthetic flowed into my veins, and my world plunged into darkness. So, all his tenderness and consideration these past years were just to pave the way for his first love. It’s just a Chief Analyst position. Candace wants it? She can have it. Julian? He can have her too. All of it. I want none of it.

After my wounds were stitched, Julian and his assistant didn’t leave. His assistant whispered, “Mr. Julian, Scarlett’s hands are ruined. She can’t possibly threaten Candace’s position anymore. Do you really need to let those reporters in to take more photos?” Julian’s eyes were chillingly cold: “Of course I know that, but I won’t gamble with Candace’s future. Only by completely destroying her reputation can I truly be at peace!” “Once she’s Mrs. Julian, I’ll naturally make sure these scandals disappear.” The hospital room door swung open, and several reporters with cameras surged in. I curled up on the bed in terror. The blinding flashbulbs, the acrid smoke, the cloying perfume—it all merged into a suffocating assault. Even the sterile cold of the VIP room made me want to gag. “She seems to be waking up? Should we give her another sedative?” Ben, the assistant, hesitated: “The dosage is already beyond the limit. Another injection could be life-threatening.” Julian commanded coldly: “Do it! I’ll take responsibility if anything happens!” “But…” Ben still hesitated, but Julian snatched the syringe and, without a moment’s pause, pushed the liquid into my vein. I forced my eyes open, seeing the cold indifference in his gaze, utterly devoid of warmth. Tears silently streamed down, and I plunged into darkness once more. When I next awoke, it was two days later. Julian stood outside the room, on the phone, his voice clearly audible – “Pay more. Make those photos go viral, keep the buzz alive until Candace secures that Chief Analyst position.” For Candace, he was truly sparing no effort. The Julian before me was a stranger, terrifying. I didn’t dare open my eyes, pretending to still be asleep. My heart felt like it was being ripped apart, the pain almost suffocating me. I had loved him without reservation, yet he had personally pushed me into this abyss. I actually, foolishly, believed he truly cared for me when he frantically carried me into the ER that day. But it was all his meticulously crafted design! After that hospital door closed, it wasn’t salvation waiting for me, but hell itself! I used to command the financial markets, a master strategist. Yet, in the end, I was undone by the very person I trusted most. It’s just a Chief Analyst position. Candace wants it? She can have it. And that position, and Julian – I want none of it! From now on, I will never appear in his world again!

When I woke up, Julian threw the photos that had gone absolutely viral onto my bed. He feigned a look of deep pain: “Scarlett, I know this must be a misunderstanding.” “Don’t worry, I’ve already got my PR team working on it. Soon, these photos will be wiped from the internet entirely.” In the photos, my face was clearly visible, my clothes disheveled, surrounded by several unfamiliar men. The background was a private room in a high-end club. The headline blared: “Female Investment Banker Allegedly Sleeps Her Way Up, Financial Industry’s Dark Side Exposed.” “Those who hurt you, I’ve already sent them all to prison.” Julian picked up his phone. “But the negative publicity has already affected the company’s reputation, and with your hands unable to do high-frequency trading anymore…” “Forget Chief Analyst, the company can’t even hold onto your position.” “Candace, bless her soft heart, fought tooth and nail to secure this opportunity for you.” Steal my position, ruin my reputation—is *that* what she calls a “soft heart”? “The company’s decided to use your case as internal training material, a cautionary tale for all new hires.” My voice trembled: “So… you agreed to this?” Julian shook his head: “I don’t think that’s impactful enough.” “Candace suggested you share your ‘lessons learned’ at the morning meetings every day.” “It might be humiliating at first, but when you see new hires avoid making your mistakes because of you, you’ll feel… gratified.” My vision blurred; I could barely see Julian in front of me. How did we become like this? It feels like just yesterday, when we first started dating, he’d get jealous if I had one too many drinks with a client. He’d always step in front of me if a male client got too close. Five years. We clawed our way up from entry-level traders, supporting each other every step of the way, finally carving out a place for ourselves in this cutthroat financial world. Now, just because Candace suggested it, he arranged for my humiliating photos to be taken, and wants me to publicly rip open my own wounds? “Julian, what did I do wrong?” Tears streamed down my face. “I absolutely refuse this arrangement. We’re over!” I struggled to get up, but a searing pain shot through my right wrist. Julian said impatiently: “Don’t be ridiculous! Candace stayed up all night to come up with this plan. Is this how you repay us?” Just then, Candace, in her ten-centimeter Jimmy Choo heels, pushed the door open. The scent of Chanel No. 5 instantly filled the entire space. Seeing my disheveled state, she curled her red lips in a triumphant smile: “Julian, what’s going on here?” Julian sneered: “Still thinks she’s a star trader, offended that the opportunity we’re giving her isn’t ‘dignified’ enough.” Candace sighed, feigning sympathy: “Scarlett, you’re practically useless now. What firm would trust their capital to a trader who can’t even type?” “Besides…” She shook her phone. “Now the entire internet is flooded with your scandalous photos. The financial world absolutely despises this kind of scandal.” I let out a cold laugh: “Since you think it’s so great, why don’t *you* become the cautionary tale? After all, you want to snatch everything, so take this opportunity too.” “Especially since…” I stared at her meticulously manicured nails, “this idea was *yours*. You’d be able to ’empathize’ with the experience even more, wouldn’t you?”

“Scarlett!” Julian’s furious voice exploded through the empty office. He grabbed my collar, slamming me hard against the wall. His right hand flew up, a sharp whistle of air preceding the brutal slap across my face. *SMACK!* The crisp sound of the slap was excruciatingly loud in the silent office. I stumbled back a few steps, a trickle of blood seeping from the corner of my mouth. “Are you out of your damn mind?! Did losing your right hand make you lose your brain too?! I never knew you were so malicious!” Julian’s eyes were bloodshot, veins throbbing at his temples, all traces of his usual composed financial elite persona gone. I slowly wiped the blood from my mouth, a cold laugh escaping my lips: “Malicious? Who really took those pictures anyway, and—” “Shut up!” Julian roughly cut me off. “Candace has been looking out for you every step of the way! Do you know how much those photos cost the company? Clients withdrawing funds, stock prices plummeting – the board wants to know who’s responsible! If you hadn’t willingly stooped to visiting places like that, those photos never would have gotten out!” I stared directly into his eyes: “Julian, can you look me in the eye and say *I* had those photos taken?” His gaze visibly flickered, his Adam’s apple bobbed uncomfortably. But quickly, that handsome face reverted to its usual cold ruthlessness. “Don’t play innocent here!” He yanked open a drawer, pulling out a stack of papers and flinging them at me. “Look at your employment contract’s supplementary clause! Any employee’s personal actions that damage the company’s reputation will result in a twenty-million-dollar fine!” Papers scattered across the floor, my signature emblazoned on the top sheet. I bent to pick up the contract, my fingers trembling uncontrollably. So, from the very first day we started dating, he had been planning this all along. Not only did he make me sign this exorbitant penalty clause, but he also transferred all my savings away under the guise of “joint investments.” He had calculated, precisely, that I couldn’t afford to pay, which is why he dared to push me so ruthlessly. “You must publicly review your actions at tomorrow morning’s meeting, so the entire company can learn from your mistakes.” Julian adjusted his tie, his tone suddenly softening: “Scarlett, please don’t make this difficult for me.” That familiar “Scarlett” sent a sharp pang twisting in my stomach. Once, he always called me that late at night after we worked overtime, and then, as if by magic, pull out my favorite Tiramisu from his briefcase. “Don’t worry, Mr. Julian.” I fought back tears, straightening my back. “I’ll… perform exceptionally well.” He nodded, satisfied, and turned to leave. Just then, Candace, in her ten-centimeter Jimmy Choo heels, pushed the door open. The scent of Chanel No. 5 instantly filled the entire space. “Julian, the board members…” She feigned surprise, covering her mouth. “Oh dear, Ms. Scarlett is here too.” Julian immediately adopted a tender expression, naturally wrapping an arm around Candace’s slender waist: “It’s all handled. Shall we go?” Candace flashed me a victor’s smile, her lips, painted with CL red-bottom lipstick, moving as she spoke: “Oh, and Scarlett, remember to dress formally tomorrow. After all, it’s going to be live-streamed on the company’s internal network.” Watching them walk away hand-in-hand, I bit down so hard on my lip, I tasted blood. The next morning, at 6 AM, I stood by the HR department’s door. My resignation letter was already crumpled in my bag. The elevator chimed open, and Candace, swaying her hips, stepped out. Her new Givenchy Fall collection suit made her look both sharp and alluring. “Well, well, isn’t it our ‘star trader’?” She deliberately raised her voice, causing several early-bird colleagues to glance over. “Weren’t you going to resign? What, slinking back already?” She leaned close to my ear, her warm breath caressing my neck: “Or perhaps… the men in that private room didn’t satisfy you that night?” I snapped my head up, meeting her malicious gaze head-on. The timid intern who used to trail behind me with reports, shyly calling me ‘Ms. Scarlett,’ had vanished completely. *SMACK!* My hand moved faster than my brain, but just as it was about to connect with her cheek, it was caught in a vice-like grip. Candace’s perfectly manicured nails dug deep into my bandaged wrist. The excruciating pain made my vision blur. “A trader without her right hand? Can’t even throw a punch, it’s like a tickle.” She maliciously ground her nails into my wound, and blood quickly seeped out, staining the gauze. “If that little slap affects my trading performance today, what do you think… Julian will do to you?” She flung my hand away, then elegantly pulled a wet wipe from her Hermes bag to clean her fingers, as if I were something dirty. The crisp click of her heels gradually faded away. I leaned against the wall and slowly slid to the floor, the searing pain in my wrist shooting straight to my heart. At 7:30 AM, Julian was setting up the projection equipment in the trading hall. The massive LED screen cycled through company promotional videos, among them, clips of me accepting the “Best Trader” award years ago. “Where’s Scarlett?” He checked his watch for the third time, impatience in his voice. “The market’s about to open, the morning meeting *must* start on time! How can someone with this level of discipline be trusted with client funds?” Ben, the assistant, stammered: “We’ve called her three times, but no one’s answering…” Julian irritably loosened his tie and slipped into the fire escape to call Candace. “Baby, how about we go to ‘The Summit’ tonight? That role-play you mentioned wanting to try…” His voice suddenly turned syrupy. “Yes, just like in those photos… you play the drunk client, I’ll be the attentive manager…” “Every time I see your eyes red with pleading, I just…” His breathing grew heavier, and his other hand unconsciously unbuttoned two buttons on his shirt. Suddenly, Ben burst in, panic-stricken: “Mr. Julian! It’s bad! Security says… says Scarlett went to the rooftop…” Julian’s expression froze instantly. The next second, like a furious lion, he lunged for the elevator, frantically jamming the ‘up’ button: “Damn it! Seal off the news immediately! Notify security… No, I’ll go myself!” When he kicked open the rooftop safety door, the first rays of morning sun were piercing through the clouds. The wind on the thirty-eighth floor was fierce, whipping my white blouse around me. “Scarlett!” His voice was tinged with genuine fear for the first time. “Get your ass down here! I don’t care about the twenty million! Do you hear me?!” I looked back at him one last time, the man I’d loved for five years, his tie crooked, his composure shattered. How pathetic. Even now, all he cared about was the company’s reputation. “Julian.” I said softly, “You will never, ever get that Chief Analyst position.” Amidst the blaring police sirens. I spread my arms wide, just as I had when I made my first foreign exchange trade, embracing this grand, magnificent fall.

“She shouldn’t be in her room, should she? Didn’t I assign people to watch her? Are all of you completely useless?” Julian’s voice carried from the end of the hallway, accompanied by hurried footsteps. I stood at the edge of the rooftop, the gauze on my right wrist fluttering gently in the wind. A faint tingling sensation came from my fingertips— It was a lingering effect of the nerve damage; the doctors said I’d never be able to perform high-frequency trading again. “Mr. Julian, we truly couldn’t stop Ms. Scarlett, she insisted on going to the rooftop…” Ben’s voice trailed off. I closed my eyes, feeling the thirty-eighth-floor wind howl past. Three days ago, I was sitting in the trading hall, my fingers dancing across the keyboard, processing hundreds of trades every minute. And now, all of it was gone. “Scarlett!” Julian’s voice, as he pushed open the rooftop door, brought me back to reality. He was in a sharp suit, his tie flapping in the wind, his face etched with that familiar look of worry— A look that once made my heart race, but now only disgusted me. “What are you doing standing there? Get down from there, now!” He extended a hand to me, his voice carrying just the right amount of urgency. I slowly turned, seeing the hospital security guards and Ben following behind him. Julian was always like this, playing the part perfectly, leaving no loose ends. Just like he arranged for angry clients to injure my hands, just like the words he spoke to his assistant outside the operating room. “Julian.” My voice was soft, but loud enough for him to hear, “Do you even grasp what it means for a high-frequency trader to lose their right hand?” His expression stiffened for a moment, then he quickly put on that gentle face again: “Scarlett, don’t overthink things. The doctors said your hand will recover. Let’s go home, okay?” “Recover?” I laughed, holding up my bandaged right hand. “Permanent nerve damage, 70% loss of fine motor skills – is *that* what you call ‘recovery’?” Julian took a step forward, and I immediately retreated, my heel already hanging over the edge. Gasps rose from below. Someone had spotted us on the rooftop. “Scarlett! Don’t do anything foolish!” Julian finally revealed his true fear. “I admit I was wrong. I shouldn’t have let you take the fall for Candace, but I truly love you!” “Love?” I scoffed. “You only love the ‘Mrs. Julian’ who could pave your way. Now that I, the trader, am ruined, it’s exactly what you wanted, isn’t it?” The wind picked up, scattering my hair. I looked down at the crowd gathering below, then at Julian’s ashen face. In that moment, I suddenly didn’t want to die— At least not if it meant letting him get what he wanted by getting rid of me. “Scarlett, please…” Julian’s voice trembled. “Think about our future…” “Future?” I slowly stepped away from the rooftop edge, stopping in front of him under his surprised gaze. “Alright then, let’s talk about our future.” Julian sighed in relief, reaching out to steady me, but I pulled away. I looked him straight in the eyes: “I have only one condition – I want to see Candace.” “That…” He hesitated. “She’s not available right now…” “Then there’s nothing to discuss.” I turned, ready to walk back to the rooftop edge. “Fine! Fine! I’ll arrange it!” Julian quickly agreed. “I’ll have her come see you tomorrow. Just come back to the room with me first.” I let him help me off the rooftop, already planning my next move in my mind. What Julian didn’t know was the first thing I did after waking up in the operating room. I had asked the nurse to contact an old friend for me – Mr. Davies from the Financial Regulatory Authority. Back in the hospital room, Julian diligently poured me water and tucked in the duvet around me. He seemed to have reverted to being the considerate husband he once was. I closed my eyes, feigning rest, listening to him make a hushed phone call on the balcony. “Candace, you have to come to the hospital tomorrow… Yes, she’s demanding to see you… I know it’s risky, but she’s emotionally unstable right now… What? No! If she actually jumps, the media will dig deep into *why*…” I silently curved my lips into a smile. Julian always prioritized profit, even over his first love. The next afternoon, Candace arrived as expected. She wore a Chanel suit and carried an Hermes bag. Her makeup was so meticulously applied, she looked ready for a financial summit, not a hospital visit. “Scarlett.” She stood by the bed, a facade of concern on her face. “I heard you’re not doing so well?” I didn’t answer, just stared at her red-polished nails— Those hands that were now operating the keyboards in the trading floor, in place of mine. “Mr. Julian is very worried about you.” She continued, an undisguised triumph in her tone. “He said that once you’re discharged, you can focus on being Mrs. Julian, and he’ll leave the trading department to me…” “Candace.” I interrupted her, my voice surprisingly calm. “Do you know what high-frequency trading absolutely despises?” She paused: “What?” “Emotional trading.” I slowly sat up. “A trader swayed by emotions will eventually blow up their account.” Candace’s face changed slightly: “I don’t understand what you mean.” “You will.” I smiled. “Oh, and thank Julian for the gift he sent me.” “Gift?” I held up my right hand: “This ruined hand, it’s the best gift he could have given me.” Candace left in a hurry, clearly startled by my words. I picked up the phone from the bedside table and dialed Mr. Davies. “Mr. Davies, it’s Scarlett. Regarding the suspicious trading records for account MH6703, I have some new findings…” After hanging up, I gazed out at the blue sky. Julian thought destroying my career would control me, but he was wrong. The most important lesson I learned in the financial market was – always have a hedging strategy. And now, my revenge plan had only just begun.

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Every time my wife brought her assistant into our bedroom, she’d make me kneel by the bed, waiting. If the assistant didn’t know what to do, she’d even make me guide them through it. Each time, I’d obediently wait for them to finish, then step forward to fetch them drinks. Eleanor would grip my neck, her eyes burning with a twisted intensity: “Don’t you feel jealous?” I’d shake my head. I even thoughtfully prepared their Durex. Eleanor, furious, would unleash her rage on me, forcing me down onto the bed, over and over again. The next morning, I’d still be there, kneeling by their bed. She’d clench her jaw, her voice dripping with contempt: “You’re a grown man, Callum. You’re truly despicable!” I’d just look at her and smile. She still didn’t know, but I was dying. Coming home, the scene on the couch was one I’d witnessed countless times. Noah had his back to me. Hearing my footsteps, he turned, a sneering, provocative smile playing on his lips. Eleanor deliberately let out sounds loud enough for me to hear. I acted as if I saw nothing, tied on my apron, and headed into the kitchen. I chopped vegetables, waiting for the sounds from the living room to cease, then turned to clean up after them. Noah’s throat always seemed dry afterward, needing honey water to soothe it. I’d silently kneel, presenting the honey water to him with both hands, like some ancient, subservient attendant. Eleanor was touching up her makeup, glancing at me, her brows furrowing in irritation. “Crash!” Noah deliberately loosened his grip as he took the glass. The scalding honey water shattered on the floor, splashing all over me. “Oh! Bro, are you okay?” He rushed to help me up, but not before viciously pinching my arm. I gasped, sucking in a sharp breath. He leaned his head towards me. Eleanor couldn’t see the cruel expression on his face, nor the threatening glint in his eyes: “How could you be so clumsy, Bro? If you don’t want to serve, I can do it myself. No need to make such a fuss.” I gritted my teeth, suppressing the pain, and forced a smile: “How could I trouble you with something like this?” Saying that, I escorted him back to his seat, while I knelt to clean up the mess. My hands and knees were covered in small cuts. The honey water stung, making me tremble. But I bit back the pain, acting as if I felt nothing. I even lifted Noah’s foot to wipe away the sticky honey water. “You can go home.” Eleanor tossed Noah’s clothes at him. “Ms. Kingston?” “There’s nothing left for you here.” Noah shot me a resentful look, then put on his clothes and the Patek Philippe watch Eleanor had bought him, and left. I remained kneeling on the floor, utterly silent. It wasn’t that I didn’t want to get up; my knees were cut, and moving them sent sharp pangs through me. “Do you still have nothing to say?” Eleanor’s voice was cold. I shook my head. She clenched her jaw. “It’s just the two of us here. I can assure you there are no listening devices!” “Truly nothing.” Eleanor snapped her cigarette in half. She grabbed my neck with one hand, while the other held up a photo of a woman: “You and I both know she’s the killer. Why won’t you testify? What’s your relationship with her?” I looked at the woman in the photo and let out a bitter laugh: “I don’t know her.” “Then why are you protecting her?” I met Eleanor’s furious gaze head-on: “I’m not protecting anyone.” She shoved me roughly to the floor, pacing back and forth in agitation. “Hasn’t my brother been good enough to you?” Thinking of Leo, my eyes welled up. I shook my head: “He was the best friend I ever had.” She grabbed my chin, forcing me to look at her: “Is this how you repay him? By letting the animal who killed him get away with it?” I couldn’t speak. Her anger flared as she slammed photos of Leo’s brutalized corpse in front of me. The horrific sight of my dear friend, covered in wounds and hanging from a tree, made me gasp and cover my eyes. That image was the nightmare of my life. “You can’t bear it either, can you?” She forced me to look at her: “Then tell me what that vile woman did! “I promise you, as soon as you testify, I’ll send Noah away!” My eyes were red, but I managed a slight smile: “No need.” Her hand, gripping my shoulder, froze. “Are you really willing to watch him and me do *that* right in front of you, forever?” “It doesn’t matter.” “Slap!” A stinging slap landed hard on my face. Her fists trembled uncontrollably: “Callum Kingston, you’re truly despicable!” “You’re truly despicable…”

That sentence felt like another burning slap on my face. The Eleanor I knew in the past would never have uttered such words. Back in school, if anyone dared to mock my grades, she’d stand with her hands on her hips, forcing a dozen people to apologize to me. After we married, her care was boundless. If my fingertip had a tiny scratch, she’d hold it and blow on it for ages. I genuinely believed we’d continue like that forever. That she’d always love me so deeply. “Eleanor…” I couldn’t help but speak her name. She spun around, a flicker of hope in her eyes. I tried to get up but fell heavily to the floor. My heart ached with sharp pangs, and a sudden flashback brought Leo’s death before my eyes. I clutched the fabric over my heart, looking up, only to see the door slowly opening from the outside. Noah had never left. He peered down at me through the crack, then raised a finger to his lips, making a “shhh” gesture. “What were you going to say?” Eleanor waited, her gaze fixed on me. I shook my head. She walked towards me: “You definitely have something to say.” “Ms. Kingston.” Noah’s voice called from outside. Eleanor’s body tensed. Yet, she remained rooted to the spot, waiting for me to speak. I glanced at Noah’s anxious face, then pulled out a box of Durex and held it out: “Don’t forget these.” Eleanor laughed, a harsh sound born of sheer fury. She hurled the box of Durex at my face, then turned and walked away. Noah was the one who closed the door. His red lips curled into a satisfied smirk as he watched my conflicted expression. He slammed the door shut. I leaned against the wall, clutching the fabric over my heart. Not yet… I had to wait a little longer, just a little longer. I searched every room in the sprawling estate before finally finding a small first-aid kit to treat my wounds. For the next month, Eleanor didn’t come home. Then, one day, the front door was suddenly kicked open. Eleanor rushed in, supporting a bloodied Noah, followed by a team of professional private medical specialists. This team had originally been meant for me, given my poor health. They had been dismissed shortly after Leo’s death. Eleanor paced anxiously outside the room, listening to Noah’s pained cries. She suddenly grabbed me, her grip like iron: “Why did you push him down the stairs?” I froze, stunned. “Did you know I was over a month pregnant and deliberately targeted him?” I looked towards Noah in surprise. His sharp brows were slightly furrowed, and he didn’t look particularly pained, yet his wails were exceptionally piercing. He shot me a threatening look. I suddenly smiled: “Yes, what about it?” Eleanor seemed taken aback. She carefully studied my expression: “Do you know what you’re saying?” “I do.” “Aren’t you going to explain yourself?” “There’s nothing to explain.” “If you admit it, I will sue you for aggravated assault.” My body stiffened. I looked at her, a hint of surprise in my eyes. She stared fixedly at me: “Either you tell me the truth about my brother’s death, and I can overlook this.” I glanced at Noah. I took a deep breath: “You will know.” Hope flared in her eyes. “But not now.” Her grip on my shoulder tightened fiercely, and her eyes reddened: “What is your relationship with that killer? You’d rather go to jail than betray her!” “I told you, Eleanor. I have no relationship with her.” A person in extreme anger can sometimes lose the ability to speak. She gritted her teeth and nodded: “Do you think I won’t dare to sue you?” I just looked at her. She shoved me away.

Three days later, I received a court summons. The moment I pleaded guilty in court, Noah raised an eyebrow, a triumphant smirk on his face. Only Eleanor’s face was chillingly grim. She had specifically hired the most elite lawyers. After meticulously picking through legal clauses and over-interpreting my actions, they stretched my sentence directly to eight years. She came to visit me. “If you testify for Leo, I have ways to pull some strings and get you out.” I just smiled and looked at her: “Ms. Kingston, take care of yourself.” I likely wouldn’t be leaving this place alive. Her breath hitched. A look of pain crossed her face: “You know perfectly well! That night, it was just that vile woman and the two of you! You saw everything, didn’t you?” I remained silent, an unspoken acknowledgment. “Back in high school, when you could only afford one meal a day, Leo used his own allowance to eat with you. Have you forgotten all that?” Tears welled in my eyes, but I shook my head: “No.” “Then why won’t you speak?” My eyes were red as I looked at her: “Not yet.” “Do I have to die before you’ll say anything?” I still shook my head. It wasn’t her who would die; it was me. By then, without a word from me, the killer would be brought to justice. But if I told her that, I feared she would lose her mind. If all went as planned, the truth of the case would be revealed while I was in prison. But less than a month later, the court inexplicably overturned my conviction and declared me innocent. I was released from prison, utterly confused. Eleanor stood waiting in front of a Rolls-Royce. On the way home, we didn’t exchange a single word. Only after we entered the house did I say to her: “Thank you.” She paused, her steps faltering. Without looking back, she walked upstairs: “Callum Kingston, you’re truly despicable.” I smiled. But tears streamed down my face. Eleanor needed to focus on her pregnancy, so she stopped bringing men home to flaunt in front of me. We lived in the same house but were like strangers. Even when we met face-to-face, she’d pretend not to see me, walking straight past. She wouldn’t touch the food I cooked anymore. I showed no reaction, simply continuing to do my own things in silence. Finally, a month later, she couldn’t take it anymore. She knocked on my door herself, a slight scent of alcohol on her. “Let’s talk properly.” Her eyes were slightly red. I invited her in. We rarely sat together so calmly, as we did today. “I’m begging you, please testify for Leo, okay?” Her tone was utterly subservient: “If you agree, I can abort the baby. I can even give you my fortune.” I shook my head: “No need.” “Who exactly is Serena to you?” Serena, that vile woman who led people to kill Leo. “I’ve said it many times, I have no relationship with her.” “How can I believe that?” Her eyes reddened: “You’d protect Leo’s killer for someone you have no relationship with?” I looked directly into her eyes: “Eleanor, on the day the baby is born, you will surely know the truth.” “I can’t wait another day!” She suddenly stood up, agitated: “Callum Kingston, if you don’t explain yourself today, I’m cutting all ties with you!” My heart clenched violently. Eleanor’s expression was no joke. I pursed my lips, then nodded: “Alright.” I’d spent long enough by her side. It was enough. Her breath hitched. Her hand gripping my shoulder trembled slightly. “Say that again.” “Us separating, that’s fine too.”

She laughed, a profoundly bitter sound: “Do you think I’m joking?” I didn’t answer. She slammed the door and left. That night, divorce papers were shoved in front of me. I was to leave with nothing. I picked up the pen to sign. But she grabbed my wrist, stopping me. “Think carefully before you sign.” I nodded: “I have thought about it.” Then I slowly began to write, her hand still gripping my wrist, slowly lowering as my signature formed. The moment the agreement was signed, she snatched it away, a quick, defiant gesture. Her face was full of disappointment: “I misjudged you.” I closed my eyes. That very day, I was driven out of the estate. With no money to spare, I found a small 300-square-foot rental room. And I quietly waited for the moment of my judgment. I could almost see Serena being brought to justice on the day I died. My breathing became erratic, my hands trembled. Then, I could finally go to Leo, bringing with me the justice he deserved. But that moment didn’t come. Instead, Eleanor’s bodyguards arrived. They dragged me back. The first thing I saw was Noah, covered in blood, lying on a bed. Blood covered his lower body. Dark circles rimmed Eleanor’s eyes; she hadn’t slept in what seemed like ages. Seeing me, she slapped me hard across the face: “Didn’t you say you didn’t care if I kept the baby? Didn’t you say you’d accept anything? “Why did you destroy his dignity as a man!” I was utterly stunned. Noah trembled in pain: “Bro… if you didn’t want me to have a baby with Eleanor, I could have left. Why did you have to torment me in such a cruel way, to completely destroy me?” Eleanor kicked me hard in the knee, forcing me down to the ground: “I will find those thugs you hired and ensure those animals who did this to him die a horrific death! “But… you, I can give you a chance.” She lifted my chin, squeezing my jaw until it ached: “As long as you’re willing to testify, I can have my team defend you, reduce your prison sentence by a few years.” Cold sweat streamed down my face from the pain. I managed to speak with difficulty: “I’m afraid… I can’t do that.” “What do you mean?” “Because I’m dying.” She laughed, a harsh, furious sound: “At a time like this, you’re still protecting that vile woman, Serena? “Let me tell you, I won’t give you another chance. You will testify, whether you want to or not!” With that, she grabbed my hand and viciously snapped my ring finger. My wedding ring was still there. I let out a heart-wrenching scream. “Will you speak?” She gripped my chin: “What exactly did Serena do to my brother that night?” I was drenched in sweat: “You’ll know when I’m dead.” Her eyes turned bloodshot. She seemed to think I was challenging her. “Do you really think I wouldn’t let you die?” My index finger, too, was broken. “Will you speak?” “Kill me.” Tears streamed down my face: “Kill me, and you’ll know everything.” Her eyes were terrifyingly red. She nodded: “Fine, I’ll grant your wish.” She picked up a wrench. And aimed it at my fingers. “No… Eleanor, wait… Ahh!!” One by one, all ten of my fingers were brutally smashed. But what hurt even more was my heart. I lay on the ground, my lips turning purple. Eleanor’s hand, holding the wrench, trembled slightly: “If I hurt you, I’ll go to jail with you.” I coughed up a mouthful of blood, my mangled fingers using their last strength to rip off my shirt buttons. “You want to know the truth? I’ll give it to you.” Seeing the hideous scar on my chest, Eleanor’s wrench clattered to the floor with a “thump!” “Callum?” She stared at the gruesome scar over my heart, utterly stunned.

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My Secret Revenge: The Billionaire’s Son Who Played Mute The day I was diagnosed with cancer, I indulged myself. I picked up a poor, mute college guy. He was cool and distant, but incredibly adventurous. To please him, I pushed my body to its absolute limits. Bungee jumping, car racing, diving, skydiving… Everything I shouldn’t do, I did with him. My savings quickly dwindled. While waiting to die, I secretly went to the hospital to sign organ donor forms. I planned to donate my heart to his ailing mother after my death. But then, on the Chief Doctor’s desk, I saw a photo of him wearing a luxury watch. The Chief Doctor smiled, “This is my son. A top student. But he loves playing games. Lately, he’s been pretending to be broke and mute as part of some role-playing game.” “He even said the girl he’s been playing with is old-fashioned and boring, and he’s ready to find a new playmate.” I laughed, tears streaming down my face, and tore up the donation forms. “I’m willing to join the new cancer drug trial, but on one condition.” “I want your family, the Evans, to adopt me.”

The moment I saw Julian’s photo, I felt like a lightning bolt had struck me. He leaned languidly against a yacht railing, a luxury watch on his wrist, surrounded by various beautiful women. One pretty girl snuggled into his arms, wearing a matching watch. It was the exact same face, yet utterly different from the Julian I knew. I remembered the Julian who had rubbed his eyes that morning, signing for a good morning kiss. My temples throbbed as if drills were boring into them, and my vision blurred with pain. *Ding.* My phone vibrated. It was a message from Julian. “Lena, I handed out flyers for half the morning today and earned thirty bucks. I bought you a bracelet.” I tapped the picture, and my breath hitched. I recognized that bracelet. Last night, I’d accidentally found a velvet gift box in his backpack. Inside was an exquisite, beautiful four-leaf clover bracelet. But the identical one on my screen now had chipped plating and a crooked gem. It was clearly the cheapest knock-off. So, Julian bought a genuine one worth 50,000, then a thirty-dollar dollar-store trinket. The dollar-store trinket was for me. What about the 50,000 one? Was it for the girl on the yacht? I suddenly remembered looking at that bracelet a bit too long in a mall display last month. Julian immediately signed to me: “I’ll buy it for you when I have money.” Now he had “bought” it. I thought of the other gifts I treasured in my tiny apartment’s cabinet. Faded earrings, a cashmere scarf with loose threads, a bag with an embroidered ‘JY’ tag… He seemed especially keen on buying me cheap, counterfeit versions of designer brands. Before, I’d just thought he didn’t recognize those brands. Now, I realized he was doing it on purpose. Or even worse, for every genuine item he bought for another girl, He’d get me, the “old-fashioned and boring” big sister, a cheap, barely-worth-anything junk item. What a hilarious way to mess with me. *Ding*, my phone vibrated again. “Why aren’t you replying? Don’t you like it?” I slowly typed: “I like it. Thank you.” Julian quickly sent another picture, a promotion for a ski resort: “Let’s go skiing this weekend. They’re having a sale.” “Oh, and a few of my friends are coming too. You don’t mind, do you, big sis?” I looked at the so-called sale price: $199 per person, not including equipment rental. It was the money I could make from one night of food delivery. I stared at the screen and suddenly laughed out loud, my eyes burning with tears. It seemed that in moments of extreme absurdity, people really do want to laugh. Dr. Evans across from me looked at me strangely. “Are you alright, dear?” I put away my phone. “Nothing. Just saw a joke. It was really funny.” “Let’s continue discussing the new drug trial.”

Due to the nature of the medication, the drug trial process would be extremely painful. And the chances of a cure were very low. Therefore, no patient was willing to gamble on that tiny survival rate. With the project approval deadline approaching, Dr. Evans, as one of the drug’s developers, was anxious. When I offered to try the drug, her eyes lit up, then she asked, confused: “Why are you making such a request?” Suppressing the gnawing pain in my chest, I forced a smile. “My parents always favored my sister; I’ve never felt any real family love.” “And,” I pointed to a photo frame, “I also want a handsome younger brother.” Dr. Evans glanced at Julian’s photo and smiled knowingly. “Alright. If you can endure the three-year trial period, I’ll make you my daughter.” My goal achieved, I let out a sigh of relief. After signing the non-disclosure agreement, Dr. Evans looked at me meaningfully. “Fight to stay alive.” I nodded vigorously. “I will.” I turned to look out the window at the magnolias on the branches. They were beaten down by the fine snow, looking weary and drooping. Yet, they stubbornly clung on. Just like me, I had planned to die this winter, but the pain had jolted me back to life.

I didn’t reply to Julian’s messages again. Even when he later sent, “Can we just say I borrowed it from you for now?”, I ignored him. I sat on the couch, quietly waiting for him to come home. It was past nine when Julian appeared. His handsome face was a stormy mess. He threw his keys heavily onto the shoe rack, making a harsh clanging sound. Before, in such moments, I would walk over, gently tug his sleeve, and sign to him: *Are you mad?* Then he would deliberately put on a stern face, waiting for me to coax him. But not today. I sat on the couch, flipping through my hospital re-examination reports. I had never told Julian about my illness. He thought I just had severe anemia. At this moment, I suddenly wanted to know, what if he knew I was dying? Would he regret all the ways he had played me? I pricked up my ears, hearing him place a glass heavily on the kitchen counter, then deliberately slamming the fridge door. He was waiting for me to speak, waiting for me to give in like before. But this time, I just silently clutched the lab reports, the paper rustling between my fingers. Julian completely missed my expectation. He only cared about *his* expectations. Seeing that I still wouldn’t give in, he finally couldn’t take it anymore. Julian grabbed his jacket, gave me a cold glance, and signed: “I’m going back to school to stay.” I didn’t stop him. The moment the door slammed shut, I got up and followed him out. He made a call at the apartment complex entrance, his cool, deep voice carried to my ears by the night wind: “Kyle, pick me up.” “Where else would I be? At that old hag’s place.” “Call Amber too. I have a gift for her.” This was the first time I had heard Julian’s voice. Usually, I could only hear a few involuntary, choked gasps escape his throat during our intimate moments. Even those few sounds, I could tell how sexy they were. I had asked him how he lost his voice, if there was any chance of a cure. He tugged at his lip as he signed: “I got sick and burned my vocal cords. Doctors say there might be hope abroad, but the medical bills would be over a million.” At the time, I thought: when I die, I’ll donate my heart to his mother. Then, for my other organs – corneas, kidneys, whatever – I’d find buyers beforehand. No matter what, I had to raise enough for his medical expenses. Making him speak again became my last wish. Now I wasn’t dead yet, but I had already heard his voice with my own ears. Both ridiculous and pathetic.

Julian entered an exclusive club. The security guards at the door bowed and fawning over him; he was clearly a regular. I followed him in. Standing in the shadows of the hallway, I peeked through the half-open private room door. Inside, the lights were dim, and liquor bottles were piled on the table. The moment Julian walked in, someone on the sofa immediately started teasing: “Well, well, Julian, not with your older sister tonight?” He scoffed, loosened his tie, and tilted his head back, guzzling half a glass of wine. “I’ve been with her too much lately. She’s forgotten who she is.” The girl I’d seen in the photo, Amber, leaned closer, her fingers ambiguously tracing his collarbone. “Julian, do you have something for me?” Julian pulled out a gift box from his pocket. “Here, have it. Something to play with.” Amber opened it, pouting slightly, clearly not thrilled. “Isn’t this last year’s style?” Julian glanced at it. “Yeah, I was going to give it to *her*.” “What? What? I thought you only gave her dollar-store junk?” The group of rich kids quickly crowded around. “Julian, you didn’t develop feelings after sleeping with her, did you?” I stood in the shadows by the door, clenching my trembling fists. Julian was silent for a moment, then slowly blew out a smoke ring. “What are you talking about? An old-fashioned, stingy old woman like her? Do you think I’d be interested?” “I was just thinking, I’m tired of playing anyway, the reveal will happen in a few days.” “To be fair, she wasn’t bad to me, so I’ll just fob her off with this outdated piece.” Another round of mocking whispers and jeers erupted from the crowd. I was meters away, yet it felt like I was plunged into a bottomless abyss. “Julian, actually, that girl isn’t ugly, she’s quite delicate-looking. After you break up, if I comfort her while she’s heartbroken, I might be able to win her over, right?” Amber slapped Chad, the guy with the bleached hair who spoke. “No way, that girl looks sickly. What’s your taste?” Chad chuckled. “I just like delicate beauties… Julian, does she actually have an illness?” Julian swirled his wine glass. “What illness could she have? Just a little anemia, she’s just being dramatic.” Amber covered her mouth, giggling. “Exactly! Julian, you swapped her medicine on her nightstand a while ago, and she still hasn’t noticed, has she?” Her sweet, mocking laughter, like a nightingale’s song, pierced my ears like needles. No wonder my disease progression had accelerated. It was because Julian had swapped the expensive specialized medicine I’d scrimped and saved to buy! A wave of metallic heat surged in my throat. I covered my mouth, desperately swallowing it down. Inside the private room, Julian seemed agitated, checking his phone repeatedly. Amber leaned onto him. “Julian, why aren’t you paying attention to me?” Julian pinched her chin, laughing flirtatiously. “What’s the rush? I’m just waiting to see when Lena gives in. Are you jealous?” “Don’t worry, she’s about to be history.” He finished, then leaned down and kissed her. A burst of whistles and laughter erupted in the private room. I stood outside the door, my fingers digging hard into my palms, yet I felt no pain. I slowly took out my phone and sent him a message: *I’ll take you all skiing this weekend.* Almost immediately, a deafening cheer erupted from the private room. “Damn! She replied!” “Julian, you won again!” Julian lazily held up his phone, the screen light reflecting his triumphant smile. He waved it at everyone in the room and said: “See? What did I tell you? She can’t live without me.” Amber giggled, collapsing into his arms. “You promised, Julian. After skiing, you’ll take her to my family’s hotel for my birthday party, then announce your identity, and then announce our relationship.” Julian paused, then bit her ear. “Of course.” After they finished their intimate moment, he bent down and tapped on his phone. Soon, I received a reply: “Okay. I’m busy with classes these next few days, so I won’t be back. See you at the ski resort this weekend.” I replied with a single “Okay.” Then I turned and left. The club hallway was long, and my shadow stretched long and thin, profoundly lonely. The night wind was still cold, but this time, I didn’t cry.

Back in my cramped rental, I packed up all of Julian’s things. What he gave me, I threw in the trash. What I gave him, I burned or shredded. Not a single scrap was left. I opened my most cherished “bucket list” photo album and tore out each picture— The first time bungee jumping, Julian had an arm around my pale face, flashing a peace sign at the camera; The first time car racing, I got out of the passenger seat with trembling legs, and Julian, dressed in his racing suit, stood by the car door, reaching out to me; The first time diving, I fainted on the beach, and Julian nervously gave me CPR; The first time skydiving, I clung to the plane door, refusing to let go, and Julian forcefully pushed me from behind… All those “first times” for me were “last times.” All those things I’d risked my life to do with him, I thought they would become his cherished memories for life. But they were all just part of his routine. All the things I crossed off my bucket list, then rewrote as his “unfinished business,” Were all just things he took for granted. Looking at the empty album, the bitter knot in my chest finally dissolved into tears, flowing out uncontrollably.

The weekend arrived as scheduled. When I got there, Julian and his friends were already geared up. From a distance, a group of them stood outside the ski rental hall, laughing and roughhousing. As I got closer, I realized there were far more than just “a few friends” as he’d said. All the familiar faces from the private room were there. Julian was the first to see me. He walked over, signing apologetically: “I’m sorry, big sis. I didn’t expect so many classmates to come.” “If you didn’t bring enough money, I can put it on my credit first.” I looked into his amber eyes and slowly shook my head. “It’s fine. I have enough.” Amber intimately linked her arm through mine. “Lena is so awesome, big sis! So rich!” The others joined in with their feigned enthusiasm. “Thank you, big sis!” “Big sis, you’re so beautiful and kind!” I could tell not a single word was heartfelt. Their eyes scanned me back and forth, like they were evaluating a fake that was about to be exposed. Julian glanced at them, the corners of his mouth tensing slightly. When it was time to pay the deposit, I pulled out a stack of scattered banknotes from my bag. There were crumpled fifty-dollar bills, and ten-dollar bills with curled edges. Amber exaggeratedly gasped, “Wow! Lena, big sis, you didn’t smash your piggy bank, did you?” I calmly nodded. “I did.” Julian’s head snapped towards me. He knew about that piggy bank. I had bought it when we first got together, specifically to save for our “travel fund.” I told him that when we saved enough, we’d go to Iceland to see the Northern Lights. He had smiled then, signing: *Sounds great! I also want to go to Antarctica to see penguins.* At the time, I didn’t respond. What he didn’t know was that I only had enough time left to save for that one trip to Iceland. I wanted to see the Northern Lights at the last journey of my life. I wanted Julian to accompany me on the final trip of my life. But now, the jar was empty. Julian stared at me. “We’re not going to Iceland?” “We are,” I replied casually. “I found other ways to make money.” Everyone around us immediately started teasing, feigning congratulations for my “newfound wealth.” Only Julian’s face grew darker.

Amber volunteered to guide me. “Newbies fall easily. I’ll teach you, big sis.” Julian glanced at her and nodded. “Amber is a great skier, follow her.” He trusted her. Seeing their glances back and forth up close, I finally understood that some gaps were like an unbridgeable chasm. Even if I built a bridge to the heavens, I couldn’t reach him. Amber led me towards the beginner slope, but halfway, she suddenly veered off, heading towards the edge of a steep, deserted slope. “Big sis, there are too many people here. Let’s go somewhere emptier.” I had no objections. I knew she had something to say to me. While we were paying earlier, Julian had kept his eyes on me. But she had kept her eyes on Julian. I wanted to hear what this girl, who was also playing me for a fool, would say. If I could, I also wanted to tell her: *You are already so talented. Even without playing these backstabbing games to pit women against each other, you could still receive so much love.* But she didn’t give me that chance. Amber took my hand, her voice growing colder. “You heard everything that day, didn’t you, big sis?” “I saw you hiding by the door, like a rat in a gutter.” I gripped my ski pole, not answering. Amber scoffed. “I thought you would end things voluntarily. I never expected you to be so shameless, willing to be played for a fool just to cling to Julian.” “Do you know how much Julian despises you?” “He said you’re old, ugly, and dirt-poor, that you even buy your underwear from dollar stores.” “That scarf you gave him? He threw it to Buddy, my dog.” “Oops, I guess I never told you, Buddy is my dog.” The edge of the ski slope was right there, and beyond it was a bottomless snow pit. Amber didn’t stop. I realized what she was about to do and tried to stop her, but I couldn’t shake her off. “You’re crazy!” Amber chuckled, then suddenly sped up and slammed into me. A sharp pain exploded from my chest. I fell almost uncontrollably into the snow pit. My ears felt like they were filled with water, and I vaguely heard Amber screaming from above: “Ah! My leg!” Loud, chaotic sounds quickly approached. Many people must have gathered around. They were shouting Amber’s name. It must be her friends. “She pushed me!” Amber cried, tears streaming down her face. “I was just trying to teach her, but she deliberately harmed me!” I lay at the bottom of the pit, a searing pain in my right leg. Snow foam poured into my collar, making me shiver with cold. I tried to get up, but the snow was too soft; every struggle made my body sink deeper. I wanted to deny it, but as soon as I opened my mouth, bloody froth gushed out. I could only look up, hoping Julian would glance down at me. But he didn’t. Neither did any of those people. The footsteps quickly faded away. They acted as if they didn’t remember I existed. They abandoned me at the bottom of the pit. My phone vibrated. It was a text from Julian: “You are so malicious. Amber was just trying to teach you how to ski. Was it really necessary to do something like this just because I was getting a little close to her?” “I really misjudged you.” I read these two messages repeatedly. After reading them for the fifth time, I suddenly understood. No matter how I struggled or hesitated, or found excuses for myself, The end result would still be Julian discarding me like trash. He didn’t even believe me. How could he possibly love me? I waited in the snow pit until the sky turned completely dark. My phone rang again. “Amber’s birthday party is tonight at the Blue Flame Resort. Come apologize.” I laughed, then turned and called Dr. Evans. “Dr. Evans, it’s Lena.” “Could you please pick me up at the north slope of the ski resort? I’ll send you the coordinates.” “After that, let’s go straight to the research center. My illness seems to have worsened.” She agreed quickly. After hanging up, I deleted all of Julian’s unread messages. Above the snow pit, aurora-like neon lights twinkled in the night sky. What a pity, I thought. We were supposed to see them together in Iceland. If I’m lucky enough to see him again, I should call him ‘brother’ now.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “298958”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic #重生Reborn

It was the third year after Liam and I broke up when I journeyed to Mount Cinderpeak. But an avalanche… it buried me forever beneath the cruel, unforgiving snow. In the fleeting moment before oblivion claimed me, an angelic whisper brushed against my ear. “Eleanor, you performed many good deeds in your life, so you may enter heaven. I grant you three days to finish anything left undone.” When I opened my eyes again, I found myself back in the car, next to a body that had long since grown cold. I understood. The angel had given me time to handle my own affairs after death. Watching the snow drift down, I buried the last photo of Liam and me in a snowdrift. “Liam, I came to the mountains. But you broke your promise.” I opened the trunk, carefully arranged my own body inside a suitcase, then packed it with crushed ice and thick snow to keep it cold. Once all that was done, I called Veridian City Funeral Home. “Hello, I’d like to book funeral services for three days from now.” “The deceased’s name is Eleanor.” The angel wanted me to handle everything, so I had to drive back to Veridian City and prepare myself a dignified funeral. With everything arranged, I drove slowly along the icy, snow-covered road. After a few turns, I noticed a car stalled ahead. A woman in a white down jacket stood in the middle of the road, waving. I had no choice but to pull over. As I rolled down the window, she removed her mask, revealing a pale, delicate face. “Chloe?” I gasped in surprise. My high school deskmate, whom I hadn’t seen since graduation, unexpectedly appeared here. Chloe was equally delighted to see me. “Ellie, it’s so good to see you here!” “My boyfriend’s car broke down. The insurance company can’t send a tow truck until tomorrow. Can we catch a ride with you?” I hesitated. After all, I was already dead; having living people in the car with me felt… wrong. But then I thought, performing good deeds might earn me favor from above. So, I agreed to their request. Chloe quickly waved towards the Maybach stuck in the snow, and a man in a black trench coat approached. Just one glance, and I froze. In the three years since Liam and I broke up, I’d imagined our reunion countless times. I never expected that when we met again, I’d already be dead, and Liam would be someone else’s boyfriend. As Liam walked closer, my heart fluttered, and I pulled my gaze away. Chloe smiled, linking her arm through his: “Liam, this is my high school friend, Eleanor. It’s such a coincidence running into her today. We can all go back to Veridian City together.” Hearing Chloe’s introduction, a storm of bittersweet emotions churned within me. I watched the man before me, the boyish awkwardness gone, replaced by the steady composure and maturity of an adult. The “long time no see” caught in my throat, refusing to be spoken. Just as I was about to speak, Liam pulled a credit card from his pocket and handed it to me. “Ms. Eleanor, this is for gas. My girlfriend gets car sick, so please, you can ride in the back.” His icy tone instantly choked me. I didn’t take the card. “I’m sorry, but I prefer to drive my own car. You two can take the back seat.” As I shut the door, I heard Chloe whisper to Liam. “Ellie is kind enough to drive us home. How can you be so rude, as if you’ve known each other before?” Liam’s eyes, dark and deep as midnight, narrowed. “Never met her.” Those three simple words made my heart clench, a painful, rhythmic squeeze. I drove calmly, unwilling to let my emotions show. Right. There was no going back. Whether we knew each other or not, it didn’t matter anymore. On the way, Chloe suddenly spoke. “Ellie, what brings you to Mount Cinderpeak?” My hands tightened on the steering wheel. “It was a place my ex-boyfriend and I promised to visit three years ago. So, I wanted to come.” After a long pause, Liam’s deep voice broke the silence. “Ms. Eleanor, don’t get distracted while driving. You can’t afford to be responsible for anyone’s life.” His sharp words brutally pierced my already frozen heart, instantly jolting me back to reality. He was right. I was already dead. What was the point of bringing up a three-year promise to Liam now?

Chloe glared at Liam. “Ellie, don’t mind him. He’s been acting weird all day, like he’d swallowed a firecracker.” “But Ellie, once we leave Mount Cinderpeak, where are you headed? Are we going the same way?” Through the rearview mirror, I secretly watched the man I’d thought of countless times in sleepless nights. My voice was hoarse. “No. Once the car reaches Veridian City, I need to attend a funeral.” The air in the car thickened with a sudden, palpable gravity. Chloe’s expression sobered. “Since we’re riding with you back to Veridian City, we’ll accompany you to pay our respects. After all, the deceased deserves it.” I glanced at Liam, seeing his silent, uncommitted expression, and my grip on the steering wheel tightened slightly. I had no family, no friends. If someone attended my funeral, perhaps I wouldn’t feel so alone when I passed on. “Thank you.” I continued to drive at a steady pace. The snow chains grated against the icy ground with a rhythmic shush, and the vast white expanse of snow obscured the road ahead. In the back seat, Chloe leaned into Liam’s embrace, but couldn’t resist asking about my past relationships. “Ellie, why did you break up with your boyfriend back then? I remember you were so in love with him; your SnapChat stories were always filled with little love notes to him.” I paused for a moment. “His friends said I was pathetic for trying to please him. He didn’t deny it, and I just… lost interest.” Three years ago, after college graduation, I’d pulled two all-nighters to help Liam design his job application portfolio. Just as I was about to give it to him, I overheard his friends badmouthing me. Their words were incredibly harsh, but Liam merely swirled the wine in his glass, not bothering to refute a single thing. In fact, there was a hint of smug satisfaction in his expression. It was in that moment that I realized how utterly pointless it all was. Chloe immediately sat upright from Liam’s arms. “How could they be like that? That’s so messed up!” “But then again, you can tell a lot about a guy by the company he keeps. Ellie, you were right to break up with him.” Listening to Chloe’s indignant words, I gave a faint hum of agreement. “Mmm.” Liam, who had been silent, suddenly spoke. “Relationships are between two people. Ms. Eleanor, that’s a pretty flimsy reason to break up, don’t you think?” I didn’t reply. Chloe, beside him, was already annoyed. “What do you know? Some guys are just so awful that they make their girlfriends sick of them!” “Liam, if any of your friends ever talk badly about me, you *have* to defend me, or I’ll never forgive you.” Liam’s jawline tightened slightly. After a long moment, he squeezed out a single word. “Okay.” Outside the window, the snow fell harder, blurring the windshield into a white haze. With poor visibility, I turned on the cold air to clear the glass. Chloe in the back seat blew into her hands, rubbing them together. “It’s so cold in here, Ellie. Can you turn on the heater?” I thought of the body in the trunk and took a few hand warmers from my bag, handing them to Chloe. “The heater can get stuffy. Use these to warm your hands.” As Chloe took them, her fingers brushed against my icy cold ones, and her eyes widened in surprise. “Your hands are freezing! What if you catch a cold without the heater on?” I paused slightly. I was already dead; having no body heat was normal. But how was I supposed to explain that to her? Just then, Liam leaned forward, extended his long arm, and switched on the car’s heater. “Ms. Eleanor, getting sick up here in the mountains can be life-threatening. You offered us a ride, so you’re responsible for our safety.” Hearing his usual domineering tone, I sighed inwardly and said no more. The only sound was the crunching of the tires on the snow. After what felt like an eternity, we finally drove out of the heavily snowed-in road and reached a town at the base of the mountain. Liam looked out at the darkening sky and said, “It’s too late. We’ll stay here for the night.”

I frowned slightly. “No, I need to get back to Veridian City within three days. I can’t stay here overnight.” Chloe pointed at the thick snow outside, her face full of disapproval. “It’s dark and snowing heavily. Driving at night isn’t safe. We can’t prioritize speed over our lives!” My gaze swept towards the back of the car, and I made a decision. “I’ll keep driving. You two can stay in town and book plane tickets back tomorrow.” The tires made a muffled thud in the snow as the car stopped in front of a guesthouse. I unlocked the car doors, motioning for them to get out. But Liam pressed the ignition button, killing the engine, and pulled out the car keys. “The heavy snow has closed the city. All trains and flights are grounded.” “Ms. Eleanor, you already promised to travel with us. A person should be honest and keep their word.” He said, then got out of the car and opened the driver’s side door, gesturing for me to step out. “Don’t worry, it’s just one night. It won’t delay your funeral.” Chloe also tried to persuade me. “Drowsy driving is really dangerous. We’re also going back to Veridian City with you for the funeral, so we can’t have any accidents.” I had no choice but to follow them into the guesthouse. It was freezing cold and rooms were scarce; we only managed to book one twin room. I initially thought of just toughing it out in the car for the night, but then I figured if Liam wasn’t awkward, why should I be the one feeling awkward? Inside the room, Chloe went to the bathroom to shower first. Liam and I sat on separate beds, each on our phones, a clear boundary between us. The sound of rushing water filled the bathroom. Liam suddenly looked at me. “It’s been three years. Aren’t you going to unblock me yet?” I paused slightly. “Since we’ve broken up, there’s no need for further contact.” Liam’s expression turned cold. “Right. A good ex should act like they’re dead.” His words were laced with thorns, especially that word, ‘dead,’ which made me uncomfortable again. “Liam, if you can’t talk respectfully, there’s no need for us to travel together.” All I wanted now was to get my own body ‘home’ and finally put an end to my life. Running into them on the way was an accident, and I’d keep my promise to give them a ride. But I didn’t want Liam to affect my emotions right before I disappeared. Perhaps my tone was too firm, as Liam’s expression became a bit unnatural. “I still need to transfer the gas money to you. It’s not too late to block me after we get back to Veridian City.” I hesitated for a moment but then opened my SnapChat blocked list. Seeing the single user profile there, my fingertips trembled slightly as I unblocked Liam. I found myself instinctively tapping into his profile, checking his recent posts. To my surprise, Liam, who used to dislike posting about his daily life, had been updating his posts every day. The latest post was a back-shot of him and Chloe holding hands, embraced, on Mount Cinderpeak. [The golden morning light kissed the peaks. I found her on Mount Cinderpeak.] The post was made on March 22nd at 6:33 AM. That was the exact moment I was buried in the snow—my time of death. I scrolled down, seeing every post on Liam’s profile, all documenting his affectionate moments with Chloe. They watched the Northern Lights in Iceland, scuba-dived in Bali to see fish, and saw the lavender fields in Provence… Every place I’d never got the chance to explore with Liam, Liam had taken Chloe to every single one of them. A pang of bitter sadness tightened its grip on my heart. After Liam finished transferring the money, he leaned back on the sofa, looking at his phone. “You used to post three times a day. How come you haven’t updated your profile at all?”

My body stiffened. My own SnapChat activity had stopped the day we broke up and hadn’t been updated since. “Didn’t feel like it.” I couldn’t help but ask him. “What about you? You never used to like posting. Why so many updates these past two years?” Liam looked up at me. “People change. You, more than anyone, should know that.” I dug my nails into my palm, the sharp, familiar pain anchoring me back to some semblance of calm. Yes, people change. When we first started dating, I tried countless ways to get Liam to post a picture of me on social media. But Liam would never agree, saying: “Happiness is between two people. No need for everyone to know.” Yet now, for Chloe, he updated his profile every single day. Some people had moved so far ahead, while I was still stuck in the same place… Just then, Chloe emerged from the bathroom, playfully asking Liam to help her blow-dry her hair. The whirring sound of the hairdryer seemed to blow all the moisture in the room straight into my heart. I went into the bathroom, turned on the shower, and stood there blankly. I couldn’t tell if the water on me was hot or cold. It seemed that ever since my revival, I could no longer feel the world’s temperature. That night, Chloe and I slept in one bed, and Liam took the other. But in the middle of the night, Chloe quietly got out of bed and went to the opposite side. I heard some rustling, followed by soft moans and gasps. “…Go easy, don’t wake Ellie…” No sooner had Chloe spoken than the rocking of the wooden bed intensified, bumping harder. I didn’t sleep a wink all night. When I woke up in the morning, Liam and Chloe were no longer in the room. Snowflakes were falling again, and the world outside the window was a pristine white. I looked at the SUV in the parking shelter, worried that the ice in the trunk might have melted prematurely from the heater being on all day. I asked the guesthouse owner for a bucket of crushed ice, then shoveled a layer of fresh snow from outside, wanting to add more ice around my body. However, as I stepped out with the ice bucket, I saw Chloe and Liam standing by the rear of the car, holding a large bag. They were fumbling, trying to open the trunk. “Ellie, I’m just putting something in the back.” My heart skipped a beat. Instinctively, I tried to stop them. “Don’t open it!” As my words fell, a ‘click’ echoed. The trunk popped open, and the black suitcase came into everyone’s view— I quickly stumbled over and pressed the trunk down. “Just put your things in the front. The trunk is already full.” Chloe glanced at the black suitcase and mumbled softly. “It’s stuffed to the brim. You really have a lot of luggage…” She placed her bag in the back seat and clapped her gloved hands, shaking off bits of snow. “Ellie, let’s go get breakfast.” I shook my head. “You two go ahead. I need to reorganize my luggage.” Chloe nodded, linked her arm with Liam’s, and they walked off. Once they were gone, I reopened the trunk. I refilled the crushed ice around the suitcase, then pressed a layer of snow on top. After all that, I gently ran my hand over the suitcase’s surface, as if caressing my own body. “Sleep, just a little longer. We’ll be home soon…” Done with my task, I returned the bucket to the guesthouse reception. When I returned to the car, Liam and Chloe were walking side by side. “Ellie, you took so long. I brought you some soy milk and baozi. Eat it while it’s hot.” Looking at the breakfast Chloe offered, I hesitated. Although I now had a physical form, I was essentially a dead person. I had no breath, no heartbeat, and couldn’t even perceive temperature. Could I even eat these things? As I wrestled with my dilemma, Liam spoke in a deep voice. “Chloe burned her hand buying you this soy milk. Don’t disappoint her.”

As soon as I looked up, I met Liam’s unyielding gaze. Chloe also looked a little embarrassed. “Ever since I’ve been with Liam, he’s always prepared my three meals a day. This is the first time I’ve actively bought breakfast.” Her genuine words left me at a loss for a reply. “Thank you.” I gently accepted it, offering my thanks. But given my condition, I ultimately didn’t eat it. Once in the car, I continued driving south. The snow thinned out, and the long-awaited sunlight pierced through the clouds, warming me slightly. After four hours of driving, we reached a small town. The navigation system warned me about driver fatigue and suggested a rest stop. I pulled the car into an open-air parking lot. Chloe, excited, looked at the scattered shops ahead, linked her arm with Liam’s, and got out of the car. “Ellie, Liam and I are going to look around. We’ll be back in half an hour.” Liam glanced at me, then proactively took Chloe’s hand. After they left, I noticed a local photo studio nearby. Thinking I hadn’t prepared a death portrait yet, I instinctively walked inside. The owner enthusiastically introduced me to various traditional outfits. “You’re so beautiful, you could take some stunning photos in a traditional mountain robe.” I shook my head. “I just need a simple seated photo, no costume changes.” My request was modest, and the photographer quickly took the picture. I looked at the color photo on the computer screen and told the owner. “Could you please convert this photo to black and white for me?” The owner looked a bit surprised. “Black and white photos aren’t usually for happy occasions… Is this for…” I smiled bitterly. “It’s for a funeral portrait.” As soon as the words left my lips, a forceful tug suddenly pulled my hand from behind. I turned around, meeting Liam’s indignant eyes. “What funeral portrait?” I hadn’t expected Liam to appear then. I subtly pulled my hand back. “My funeral portrait.” Liam’s expression stiffened, a sneer almost overflowing from his eyes. “What’s the point of using such a lie to deceive people?” I hadn’t expected my honest confession to be dismissed as a mere lie by Liam. Regardless of whether he believed me or not, it no longer mattered. I brushed back the strands of hair the wind had messed up, my voice so light it seemed to scatter. “I was just kidding. It’s for a friend’s funeral portrait.” Then, I looked at the owner. “Is the photo color adjusted?” The owner looked at us both in surprise, then lowered his gaze to the computer screen, momentarily confused. “Why did the photo suddenly get overexposed…? Ma’am, we might need to retake it.” I walked over to the computer, only to see that the originally clear photo had somehow become blurry. It looked as if something had obscured it, making it impossible to distinguish who was in it. I couldn’t help but glance at my own faintly dissipating hand and let out a bitter laugh. “Never mind. Let’s just leave it.” I was a dead person now. Even if I took a thousand, ten thousand more photos, they probably wouldn’t come out clear. I was about to head back to the car, but Liam stopped me. “Chloe wants to take some snow wedding photos here. We’ll leave after we’re done.” Hearing that, I really frowned. We’d clearly agreed to leave after a half-hour rest. Why the sudden change to wedding photos? “I need to get back to Veridian City quickly. I don’t have time for delays.” Liam furrowed his brow slightly. “Taking wedding photos is a big deal for Chloe and me. How can you call that a delay?” Seeing his tone, I felt a surge of anger. “Liam, your big life events have nothing to do with me!” “But this funeral is the most important event of my life, and I have to be there on time!” “It’s just your friend’s funeral. Is it really necessary to rush like this? We can make up the time on the highway.”

Liam sounded a bit impatient. As the atmosphere grew tense, Chloe approached, wearing a pure white wedding gown. “Ellie, don’t be angry. We’ll only take one set of snow wedding photos, then change immediately and leave. It won’t take long.” Despite her somewhat pleading gaze, I still refused. I told them they could rent a car locally and take their time. A wedding is a woman’s once-in-a-lifetime event, and wedding photos are something she cherishes forever. But if it meant I couldn’t even complete my own funeral after I died, what was the point of the time the angel had granted me? Besides, I knew Liam was probably behind this. After so many years together, I knew his vengeful nature. But I was already dead. Why should I compromise for this man? Because of my insistence on leaving, Chloe changed her clothes. She said she’d already taken several sets of snow wedding photos on Mount Cinderpeak anyway, so this spot wasn’t essential. The atmosphere grew stiff for a while. The three of us returned to the car. Chloe yawned endlessly, wanting to lie down and rest alone in the back seat, so Liam sat in the passenger seat. The drive was quiet as the white SUV merged onto the highway leading to Veridian City. The snow outside had stopped, and a fine drizzle mixed with cold wind lashed against the windshield, creating streaks of water. I focused on driving. In the back, Chloe stretched and sat up. Seeing the navigation indicate we were nearing Veridian City, she suddenly spoke with emotion. “Ellie, it was so good meeting you on this trip. Otherwise, Liam and I would still be stranded on the mountain.” “You absolutely have to come to our wedding.” My hands tightened on the steering wheel. “Let’s talk after we get back to Veridian City.” But Chloe didn’t pick up on my subtle refusal. Instead, she had a new idea. “How about you be my bridesmaid?” As soon as her words fell, Liam and I spoke in unison. “No!” At the same time, the car lurched violently, slamming into the guardrail. “Bang—!” I quickly gripped the steering wheel, managing to pull over safely into the emergency lane. Liam immediately unbuckled his seatbelt and got out to check on Chloe. “Chloe, are you hurt anywhere?” Chloe, still shaken, shook her head. “I’m fine, but my stomach hurts a bit. I think my period is coming…” Liam immediately prepared hand warmers for her. I got out to inspect the car, finding only the front bumper damaged, nothing serious. I breathed a sigh of relief. Just as I was about to get back into the driver’s seat, Liam already beat me to it, pulling the car door open. “Your nerves are shot, and your focus is easily divided. I’ll drive the rest of the way.” This time, I didn’t refuse. The closer we got to Veridian City, the more ethereal my soul-body became. I worried I wouldn’t be able to drive this last stretch properly, so I could only entrust it to Liam. I was about to go to the back seat, but Liam told me to sit in the passenger seat directly. “Chloe’s on her period; she needs the space to rest.” I paused slightly, then silently sat in the passenger seat. The rain pattered down, obscuring the view outside the window. Once Liam was driving steadily, Chloe brought up the previous topic again. “Liam, why didn’t you want Ellie to be my bridesmaid?” Liam’s eyes darkened for a moment but said nothing more. I thought of my awkward past with Liam, and my own dissipating body. My voice was a little dry. “A tarot reader once told me my stars weren’t aligned, so it’s bad luck for me to be a bridesmaid.”

Chloe didn’t expect me to say that, and her face showed disapproval. “That’s all nonsense, come on! You’re such a good person, how could your stars be bad? Ellie, trust me!” “I’m a good judge of character. Your future boyfriend will be just as wonderful as you are, and you’ll be just as happy as I am.” The car swayed slightly. I instinctively glanced at Liam, noticing the veins on his hand, gripping the steering wheel, stood out starkly. I moved my pale lips, responding softly. “Perhaps.” But whether I was happy or not, that would only be in the next life. My current life had already ended at the age of twenty-six. There was no future for me anymore. The scenery along the highway blurred past. A sign indicated only 1 kilometer left to Veridian City. Just as I was lost in thought, my phone received a border-crossing message from Veridian City. [Welcome Home to Veridian City! Heaven’s Gates Funeral Services are honored to assist you.] My breath hitched, and it felt like a ball of fire was lodged in my chest. The heat crawled up from my chest, scorching me so much that even my fingertips trembled. Liam noticed something was off and turned his head to look at me. “What’s wrong with you? Your face is so pale.” I bit hard on my lower lip, weakly shaking my head. “Nothing.” Seeing my ceaselessly trembling body, Liam raised his right hand and directly touched my forehead. “Why are you so cold?” Then, he turned on the car’s heater, and a wave of warm air hit me. I thought of the body in the trunk and reached out to turn it off. “I don’t need the heater…” Liam swatted my hand away, turned the steering wheel, and drove the car directly into a highway rest stop. “You’re shivering like this. Are you trying to freeze and catch a cold?” Chloe’s comforting voice also came from the back seat. “Yes, Ellie, you need to take care of yourself. Let’s rest at the service area for a bit.” After I finished speaking, once the car was parked, I got out and went to the restroom. Liam walked to the passenger side and opened the car door. “I’ll take you into the service area for some hot water and to find a clinic to see a doctor.” I shook my head, unwilling to get out of the car. “No need. I know my own body.” Liam, without a word, grabbed my hand, intending to pull me out of the car. But as he touched my wrist, his face instantly changed. “Why don’t you have a pulse?” I remembered Liam, who’d studied pre-med in college, and quickly pulled my hand back. “It’s just cold; my pulse isn’t very clear.” I instinctively explained, unwilling for Liam to notice any more clues. My phone rang. I picked it up and saw it was a call from the funeral center. Avoiding Liam, I walked to the back of the car and answered. “Hello, we need to process the cremation certificate. Can we confirm the name of the deceased one more time?” I reached out and gently brushed the trunk, my voice a little hoarse. “Eleanor.” “Okay, for the funeral, we need a family member to greet the hearse into the hall and hold the deceased’s portrait. Will that be you…” Hearing the staff member’s inquiry, I blurted out. “I have something important, I can’t be there.” The other end of the phone hesitated for a moment. “If you’re not coming, who will be bringing the deceased? And who should we designate as the family representative?” Snow began to fall again, sparsely. I reached out, catching a snowflake, and looked at Liam, who was also on the phone not far away. “Her friend, Liam, will be delivering the body. It’s in the SUV’s trunk right now.” “As for the funeral and memorial service procedures, he will handle everything.” After hanging up the phone, I felt my body become much lighter. Liam, this time, this is our real goodbye…

I sat back in the passenger seat, quietly waiting for Chloe to return before we set off again. But after Liam hung up his phone, he walked directly to the driver’s seat. He got in the car and started the engine. Seeing him about to leave, I quickly spoke. “Chloe isn’t here yet.” “Chloe won’t be traveling with us anymore. A driver will pick her up soon.” He said, then fastened his seatbelt. My phone received a SnapChat message from Chloe. [Ellie, my mom said it’s disrespectful for a girl on her period to attend a funeral, so she wants Liam to represent me and accompany you. We’ll get together another time.] I replied with an ‘Okay,’ my heart a mix of emotions. Liam was already driving, continuing on the highway. The car was quiet, and we could hear each other’s breathing clearly. I curled my hands slightly, turning my head to look out the window. Suddenly, Liam’s question broke the silence in my ear. “After the funeral, where are you planning to go?” I paused, unsure how to answer. Once the funeral ended, I would completely vanish from this world. Where I went next depended on the angel’s arrangements. “I don’t know.” I said honestly. Liam gripped the steering wheel tightly, his dark eyes swirling with emotion. “Eleanor, don’t you have any plans for your life? Have you just been living day by day all these years?” I lowered my eyes, my voice barely a whisper. “I guess so.” After all, my life had already ended. Every minute, every second I now lived was a gift from the angel. Thinking of Liam and Chloe, who were about to walk down the aisle. I thought for a moment, then spoke the heartfelt blessing brewing inside me. “Liam, I wish you and Chloe an early happy wedding and a lifetime of happiness.” The car suddenly lurched. Liam’s jawline tightened further. “Eleanor, what do you mean by that? When we were together, you never cared about my affairs!” “Now that we’ve broken up, you’re faking well wishes?!” I hadn’t expected such an intense reaction from him. For a moment, I was confused. “Don’t you want my blessings?” Liam stepped on the gas, and the car’s speed surged to 120 mph. “Now I’m finally sure. You truly never loved me.” The scenery outside flew past as the white SUV sped along under the twilight sky. I gripped my seatbelt tightly, feeling a little out of breath. The atmosphere in the car was suffocating. I didn’t know what else to say. Had I loved him? If I hadn’t, I wouldn’t have been stuck in the same place three years after our breakup, going to the snow-covered mountains alone… But now, what did it matter if I had loved him or not? I was dead, and he was getting married, wasn’t he? A few hours later, the car exited the Veridian City tollbooth. A funeral home hearse was parked by the roadside, the driver waving at the white SUV. Liam pulled over and rolled down the window. The staff member presented his ID and said. “Hello, Mr. Harrison? This is the memorial service guest list for Veridian City Funeral Home. Please sign here.” Liam looked a little confused. “Why do I need to sign?” The staff member politely replied. “This was Ms. Eleanor’s request.” Liam glanced at me, resting in the passenger seat, and silently took the form, signing his name in the bottom right corner. After signing, Liam followed the hearse towards the funeral home. The closer we got to the funeral home, the lighter I felt. A long-forgotten sense of drowsiness slowly crept up from deep within me. I knew my time was running out. Through the car window, I watched the scenery outside. The bustling crossroads, the sky filled with twilight hues, and the skyscrapers piercing the clouds… Everything I saw, I etched deeply into my memory.

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