I was born with a nose that was far more sensitive than most. To be precise, I could literally *smell* the goodness or rottenness in a person’s soul. Kind people had a faint, fresh scent, while evil people reeked of decay. All my life, this ability helped me dodge a lot of trouble. For instance, in elementary school, my deskmate, Brad, who always bullied people? He reeked like something had crawled into a dark corner and died. In high school, Tiffany, the class beauty who acted sweet but spread rumors behind everyone’s back? She reeked of a sourness so intense it made my eyes water. And Mr. Davies, the foreign exchange professor who always tried to get a little too handsy with the female students at summer camp? He had a fishy stench that made me sick to my stomach. But today, I smelled a third kind of scent: bitter. At the freshman orientation, I sat in the back row, bored out of my mind, spinning my pen. The host announced loudly, “Next, please welcome Professor Julian Harrington from the Chemistry Department, to address the new students.” The hall erupted in applause. I looked up and saw a tall, imposing man stride onto the stage. He looked around six-foot-three, dressed impeccably in a suit, broad-shouldered and lean. Gold-rimmed glasses sat on his high nose bridge, and the eyes behind the lenses were deep, unfathomable. This was the legendary Julian Harrington? Oceanview University’s youngest professor, a genius in the academic world, and, according to students, the nightmare professor. They said his research group had an 80% attrition rate, and he’s rumored to have reduced enough grad students to tears to form their own support group. Curiously, I sniffed the air. Usually, strict p I was born with a nose that was far more sensitive than most. To be precise, I could literally *smell* the goodness or rottenness in a person’s soul. Kind people had a faint, fresh scent, while evil people reeked of decay. All my life, this ability helped me dodge a lot of trouble. For instance, in elementary school, my deskmate, Brad, who always bullied people? He reeked like something had crawled into a dark corner and died. In high school, Tiffany, the class beauty who acted sweet but spread rumors behind everyone’s back? She reeked of a sourness so intense it made my eyes water. And Mr. Davies, the foreign exchange professor who always tried to get a little too handsy with the female students at summer camp? He had a fishy stench that made me sick to my stomach. But today, I smelled a third kind of scent: bitter. At the freshman orientation, I sat in the back row, bored out of my mind, spinning my pen. The host announced loudly, “Next, please welcome Professor Julian Harrington from the Chemistry Department, to address the new students.” The hall erupted in applause. I looked up and saw a tall, imposing man stride onto the stage. He looked around six-foot-three, dressed impeccably in a suit, broad-shouldered and lean. Gold-rimmed glasses sat on his high nose bridge, and the eyes behind the lenses were deep, unfathomable. This was the legendary Julian Harrington? Oceanview University’s youngest professor, a genius in the academic world, and, according to students, the nightmare professor. eople aren’t necessarily bad, but they often have a pungent or cold scent. But Julian Harrington… He carried a heavy, bitter scent, like an over-brewed, forgotten coffee, a deep, acrid bitterness that, for some inexplicable reason, made my heart ache with a strange pang of sympathy. I froze. He wasn’t a bad person, but he wasn’t happy either. After the orientation, compelled by a strange impulse, I fo I was born with a nose that was far more sensitive than most. To be precise, I could literally *smell* the goodness or rottenness in a person’s soul. Kind people had a faint, fresh scent, while evil people reeked of decay. All my life, this ability helped me dodge a lot of trouble. For instance, in elementary school, my deskmate, Brad, who always bullied people? He reeked like something had crawled into a dark corner and died. In high school, Tiffany, the class beauty who acted sweet but spread rumors behind everyone’s back? She reeked of a sourness so intense it made my eyes water. And Mr. Davies, the foreign exchange professor who always tried to get a little too handsy with the female students at summer camp? He had a fishy stench that made me sick to my stomach. But today, I smelled a third kind of scent: bitter. At the freshman orientation, I sat in the back row, bored out of my mind, spinning my pen. The host announced loudly, “Next, please welcome Professor Julian Harrington from the Chemistry Department, to address the new students.” The hall erupted in applause. I looked up and saw a tall, imposing man stride onto the stage. He looked around six-foot-three, dressed impeccably in a suit, broad-shouldered and lean. Gold-rimmed glasses sat on his high nose bridge, and the eyes behind the lenses were deep, unfathomable. This was the legendary Julian Harrington? Oceanview University’s youngest professor, a genius in the academic world, and, according to students, the nightmare professor. They said his research group had an 80% attrition rate, and he’s rumored to have reduced enough grad students to tears to form their own support group. Curiously, I sniffed the air. Usually, strict people aren’t necessarily bad, but they often have a pungent or cold scent. But Julian Harrington… He carried a heavy, bitter scent, like an over-brewed, forgotten coffee, a deep, acrid bitterness that, for some inexplicable reason, made my heart ache with a strange pang of sympathy. und myself trailing Julian. He walked quickly, nodding curtly to the many students who greeted him along the way, stingy even with his smiles. I hid around the corner of the corridor, watching him enter his office. The door hadn’t closed properly. After a moment of hesitation, I pulled out a box of matcha nougat crackers I’d made last night. I’d planned to snack on them myself, but now… he looked like he needed something sweet more than I did. When the hallway was empty, I tiptoed in, placing the nougat crackers on the most conspicuous spot on his desk. I even attached a sticky note: “A little sweetness always helps. – Willow, Chemistry.” Done, I turned to leave, then suddenly remembered my USB drive was still plugged into the office computer. I quickly rushed back to get it. When I returned, the office door was ajar, and low voices drifted out. “Professor Harrington, this collaboration benefits both parties. Why be so stubborn?” It was a middle-aged man’s voice. My steps faltered, and instinctively, I sniffed. An intense, putrid stench, more acrid than rotting fish. A dangerous smell. I held my breath, peeking through the crack in the door. Julian Harrington stood by the window, his back to the door, and said coldly, “Mr. Hayes, experimental data is not within the scope of negotiation.” The man, referred to as Mr. Hayes, sneered, “Young man, don’t be ungrateful. Do you really think you can hold onto such a huge project alone?” Julian Harrington remained silent. Mr. Hayes leaned in closer, whispering, “I heard… your father hasn’t been well lately? I might be able to help with the Harrington family matters.” The air instantly chilled. Julian Harrington slowly turned around, his eyes behind the glasses cold and terrifying. “Are you threatening me?” Mr. Hayes grinned, “Oh, I wouldn’t dare. I’m just reminding you.” They faced off for a few seconds. Mr. Hayes snorted, then turned and left. I quickly hid behind a potted plant in the hallway corner, my heart pounding so fast I thought it would burst out of my chest. Only after his footsteps completely faded did I let out a sigh of relief. Just as I was about to sneak away, a low male voice suddenly spoke behind me. “Seen enough?” I froze instantly. Julian Harrington held the box of nougat crackers, a slight curve on his lips, but no humor in his eyes. “Sending me so many sweets, are you trying to make sure I don’t flunk you out even if I need insulin?” He asked slowly, “Hmm? Willow?” 2 I froze, my mind flashing with frantic thoughts: *Oh no, oh no, oh no…* Caught eavesdropping, then busted red-handed delivering the nougat? This was a top-tier social suicide moment, straight out of a reality show. Julian Harrington stood right in front of me, looking down with a half-smile on his face. I swallowed, and managed to stammer, “P-Professor Harrington, hello…” He raised an eyebrow, saying nothing. The air solidified. Bravely, I pointed to the nougat crackers in his hand: “Um… are they good?” As soon as I said it, I wanted to slap myself. What kind of idiotic question was that?! Julian Harrington seemed surprised by my question. He paused, glanced down at the nougat, then looked back at me: “Haven’t tasted them yet.” “Then… would you like to try one?” I chuckled awkwardly, “I made them myself, I promise, it’s seriously so good!” He studied me intently, his gaze so deep it felt like he could read my every thought. His scrutiny made my scalp tingle. I instinctively took a step back, only to hit my heel against the wall and almost trip. Julian Harrington reached out a hand to steady me. I quickly regained my balance, my heart racing like I’d just run a mile. “Why did you bring me sweets?” he asked. “I…” My mind went blank. I could only stammer out a few words, “I want to use my sweetness to make sure you’re not bitter anymore.” The moment the words left my mouth, I froze. Julian Harrington froze too. In that instant, I thought I smelled the heavy bitterness on him lessen just a tiny bit. But quickly, he resumed his usual indifferent, ice-cold expression. “Bitter? You know me that well?” “I do!” I nodded, “Your name is Julian Harrington, you’re the nightmare professor in the Chemistry Department, your research group has an 80% attrition rate, and you once made an entire class of grad students cry. You’re also rated as the top campus crush by all the female students, with an eight-pack…” Mid-sentence, I clammed up. *Crap, I said everything I shouldn’t have!* Julian Harrington, however, chuckled. “Looks like my reputation isn’t so good,” he said. I forced a laugh, “N-no, not really…” He looked down at the nougat crackers in his hand, then suddenly asked, “Your name is Willow?” “Yes, Willow from Chemistry.” I answered honestly. He pushed up his gold-rimmed glasses. “How much did you hear outside the door earlier?” My scalp tightened. I immediately shook my head, “Didn’t hear anything! My ears aren’t working right!” “Your ears aren’t working, but your nose is super sensitive?” He gave a half-smile. I: “…” *Seriously, how does this guy always nail the important stuff?* Julian Harrington didn’t press further. He slowly unwrapped a nougat cracker and took a bite. I watched him nervously. He chewed a couple of times, then nodded slightly: “It’s very sweet, indeed.” I sighed in relief. Just as I was about to speak, he continued, “However, eavesdropping on a professor’s conversation, and then sneaking into their office to leave sweets…” My heart leaped into my throat again. He said calmly, “By rights, this should result in disciplinary action.” My heart just sank. *Goodbye, scholarship!* “But…” He changed his tone, “I happen to have a project right now that requires someone with a sensitive sense of smell.” I blinked. “Huh?” “The potential application of specialized olfaction in chemical analysis.” He looked at me, “Interested in joining my research group?” I was stunned, unable to process it for a moment. Julian Harrington’s research group? That’s the absolute pinnacle of the Oceanview University Chemistry Department, a place countless people would kill to get into! “C-can I…?” I stammered. “Didn’t you say your sense of smell was sensitive?” he countered. “It is pretty sensitive…” I mumbled, “But aren’t you afraid I’ll be clumsy and mess up the experiments?” Julian Harrington gave a faint smile: “Don’t worry, if you mess up, I’ll just have to dissect your nose for science.” I: “…” *He has a dark, witty side, doesn’t he?* Seeing my silence, he added, “The research group offers good benefits, monthly stipends, and the lab has 24/7 access to coffee and desserts.” Huh? Desserts? Coffee? I immediately brightened, instantly forgetting my earlier nervousness: “Really?” He nodded: “Really.” “Then… then I’m in!” I agreed without hesitation. Julian Harrington seemed to have anticipated my answer. He chuckled softly, then glanced at his watch: “Tomorrow morning at eight, Experiment Building B. Don’t be late.” He turned to leave after saying that. I quickly called out, “Wait! What about Mr. Hayes… will he come bother you again?” Julian Harrington paused, turned his head, and said coldly, “That’s not for you to worry about.” I wanted to ask more, but he had already strode away with his long legs. My heart was racing, my hands trembling. My emotions took a long time to settle. 3 First thing the next morning, I went to the experiment building. Standing outside the lab door, I took more than ten deep breaths before mustering the courage to knock. The door opened. A guy with black-rimmed glasses poked his head out, scrutinizing me. “Hey, are you…?” “I’m Willow. Professor Harrington asked me to report today…” “Oh! You’re the genius girl with the super sense of smell?” The guy looked surprised, then enthusiastically pulled me in. “Hi, I’m Leo, a second-year grad student. I mostly slack off in this group.” The lab was spacious and bright. Leo gave me a quick tour, introducing a bunch of names. I was so overwhelmed I only remembered Chloe and Sam, the senior students. “Where’s Professor Harrington?” I asked. Leo pointed to the inner office, “He’s in there, but right now he’s…” Before he could finish, the office door opened, and Julian Harrington emerged. The lab instantly fell silent. Everyone stood up in unison. Julian Harrington scanned the room, then glanced at me. “You’re here?” I nodded, feeling a strange flutter of nervousness. He walked up to me and handed me a stack of papers. “First, review the experiment protocols. This afternoon, Leo will teach you the basic operations.” I took the papers and stared, dumbfounded. It was a thick stack, at least fifty pages. “That much?” The words slipped out. Julian Harrington raised an eyebrow. “Problem?” “N-no…” I answered softly. He nodded, then turned and left. “Willow, you recorded this data wrong!” “Willow, that’s not how you use a centrifuge!” “Willow, you can’t touch that reagent with your bare hands!” Three days later, I had officially become the group’s favorite and its resident target for teasing. “Willow! Come smell this sample for any odd smells!” Leo waved a test tube at me. I sighed, resigned, and leaned in to sniff: “Acetaldehyde is too high. Did you guys forget to add the inhibitor?” The lab instantly erupted in cheers. “Genius! Just saved us half an hour on that chromatography analysis!” “Willow, you’re the GOAT!” Before I could even bask in the glory, someone lightly tapped the back of my head with a folder. Julian Harrington had appeared behind me. “Willow, your job is to assist with experiments, not to be a human detection device.” I hunched my shoulders. “Oh…” “And you all…” He scanned the room. The lab instantly became silent. “If I hear anyone shout ‘GOAT’ again, everyone gets an extra data set to analyze.” Everyone scattered like startled birds. I secretly sniffed Julian Harrington’s scent. I noticed the bitterness on him was much fainter today, replaced by a subtle hint of… caramel? *Strange, did he eat candy today?* “What are you staring at?” He suddenly turned, and I almost bumped into his chin. “N-nothing!” I quickly held up my lab notebook to hide my face. “I’m studying diligently!” He snorted softly, then tapped the instrument in front of me with his long, slender finger. “The centrifuge parameters are set wrong. Do you want to launch the sample into orbit?” I looked closely and almost fainted. I had accidentally added an extra zero to the rotation speed. “I’m sorry! I’ll fix it right away!” Julian Harrington sighed, reached out and took my wrist, guiding my fingers as he re-entered the parameters on the control panel. The caramel scent on him became even more distinct, so pleasant that for a moment, I forgot to breathe. “Got it?” He released my hand. I nodded, my mind buzzing with: *His hands are so nice… wait, no, I got the parameters!* “Professor Harrington!” Chloe poked her head out from the inner office. “The NMR results you wanted are ready!” He acknowledged her, then glanced at me again before leaving. “Make another mistake and you’ll write a ten-thousand-word apology.” I: “…” 4 *Is this the legendary nightmare professor?* *Alright, I’m in love.* Lunchtime arrived. Clutching the last serving of sweet and sour pork ribs I’d managed to snatch from the cafeteria, I was surrounded by the research group, subjected to an intense interrogation. “Spill it! What’s your relationship with Professor Harrington?” Leo slapped his fork on the table. “He personally teaches you how to operate instruments?” Chloe looked heartbroken. “Last year, when I made an operating error, he made me copy the safety protocols twenty times!” I stuffed a piece of pork rib into my mouth, mumbling indistinctly, “Maybe… because I’m clumsy?” Everyone gave me a look that screamed, “Do you seriously expect us to believe that?” “I know!” Sam slapped his thigh. “Professor Harrington must be craving your nougat! Last time, I saw his office drawer was full of those nougat cracker wrappers!” I nearly choked on my rice. *He actually ate them?* *And he collects the wrappers? Talk about a secret softie!* “But speaking of which…” Leo said mysteriously, “Do you guys know why Professor Harrington is so strict?” We all shook our heads in unison. “I heard he was screwed over by his own advisor back then. His experimental data was plagiarized, and he almost didn’t graduate. That’s why he has zero tolerance for academic misconduct now…” I suddenly remembered the conversation I’d overheard outside his office that day. *Mr. Hayes, was he also trying to…* “Willow.” A cool voice came from behind. I was so startled I dropped my fork. “P-Professor… good to see you!” Everyone instantly stood up. Julian Harrington gave a slight nod, then gestured for me to follow him. “Come to my office after you finish eating.” When I nervously arrived at his office, he was still buried in grading papers. “Sit,” he said without looking up. I obediently sat down, unable to resist secretly taking a deep breath. *This caramel scent, it’s really so good…* “Smelled enough?” he suddenly asked. I froze. “W-what?” He looked up, his eyes behind the glasses glinting with a hint of amusement: “Your little bloodhound nose has secretly sniffed around at least seven times since you stepped in.” My face instantly flushed hot. *Does this guy have a built-in radar or something?* “I… I just…” “Take a look at this.” He pushed a document toward me. I looked down. It was a non-disclosure agreement. “Starting next week, you’ll be involved in the development of a new type of molecular sieve. This project has a make-or-break agreement with the Hayes Group.” I sharply looked up: “That Mr. Hayes from that day…” “Clever.” He gave a slight smirk, “So, once you sign this agreement, there’s no backing out.” I signed my name without a second thought. When I looked up, our eyes met. “Aren’t you going to ask why I chose you?” “Because my nose is useful?” I ventured. He chuckled softly, and ruffled my hair: “Because you were the only one who said I was bitter.” The gesture was too intimate. My brain instantly short-circuited. Even more shocking, in that exact moment, the bitterness on him suddenly faded, and that caramel scent became incredibly prominent, intensely sweet, like freshly made toffee. By the time I came to my senses, I had, as if by some strange impulse, blurted out the words: “Professor Harrington, you just… smelled a little sweet?” The moment the words left my mouth, I wanted to bite off my tongue. *What was that audacious, almost brazen thing I just said, Willow?!* Julian Harrington froze. The office was so quiet I could hear my own deafening heartbeat. Just as I was considering whether to jump out the window and escape, he suddenly took off his gold-rimmed glasses. *Oh no, they say when Professor Julian takes off his glasses, things are about to get serious!* “Willow.” He slowly leaned in, close enough for me to count his eyelashes. “Do you know what happens in a lab when you tell your professor he’s sweet?” I frantically shook my head. He grinned mischievously: “You get penalized by having to sort through all the experimental data, alone.” I: “…” *Help! This professor is both sweet and utterly shameless!* 5 Monday morning, I sneezed the moment I walked into the lab. “What’s wrong, Willow? Catch a cold?” Leo handed me a tissue. I shook my head, wrinkling my nose as I looked around: “Don’t you guys smell it? A… rotten smell, it’s awful!” The lab members exchanged confused glances. Chloe sniffed hard: “No, I don’t smell anything.” The sickening stench of decay grew stronger. I followed the scent to the doorway. A girl in a tight black dress stood there, looking around. That smell, it was exactly like Mr. Hayes, who had threatened Julian Harrington in the office that day! “Excuse me, is this Professor Harrington’s research group?” She said in a high-pitched voice, “I’m Skylar Hayes. My dad is Mr. Hayes from the Hayes Group. Professor Harrington specially approved me to join the group.” I rolled my eyes. *How could Julian Harrington agree to let someone like her join the team?* At lunch in the cafeteria, I poked at the rice on my plate, completely losing my appetite. I couldn’t help but ask Leo, “That Skylar, why is she suddenly in our group?” “I heard she’s an exchange student. Her family donated a building to the university.” Leo looked gossipy. “Her dad seems to know Professor Harrington.” My fork clattered. *Know him? Mr. Hayes was threatening Julian Harrington!* Back in the lab that afternoon, Skylar had already made herself at home, mingling with everyone. She handed out popular lipstick shades to the girls and the latest game skin redemption codes to the guys. “Hi, Skylar.” Chloe enthusiastically greeted her. “Let me show you around the lab? We…” “No need.” Skylar smiled, cutting her off, then glanced at me. “Excuse me, would you mind showing me around?” She walked towards me, that putrid stench washing over me. I instinctively recoiled. “I… I’m busy! I have an experiment…” I turned to flee. “Willow, project done?” Julian Harrington walked towards me. Before I could even speak, Skylar latched onto him like a shark smelling blood. “Professor Harrington!” She resumed her high-pitched voice. “Long time no see, you look even more handsome!” Julian Harrington frowned, then gave me a cold glance. “Show the new student around the lab.” I gritted my teeth and walked over, suppressing my disgust as I stood next to Skylar. Her cheap perfume, mixed with that putrid stench, was absolutely suffocating. “Let’s go,” I mumbled, walking quickly ahead. Skylar jogged to catch up: “You’re Willow, right? I heard your sense of smell is super sensitive?” I ignored her, heading straight for the lab bench. “Oh dear, how do I use this instrument?” She reached out to touch the centrifuge. “Don’t touch that!” I slapped her hand away. “It’s dangerous!” Skylar’s tears came instantly. She looked at me pitifully, “Why are you being so mean… I just want to learn…” The lab fell silent. Everyone stared at us. My head buzzed with anger. *Her acting skills, they’re wasted if she’s not an actress!* “What’s going on?” Julian Harrington walked over. Skylar immediately teared up, “Professor Harrington, Willow seems to dislike me…” Julian Harrington looked at me. “Explain.” “She touched the instrument without permission!” I pointed at the centrifuge, “And she…” I abruptly stopped myself, almost blurting out “She smells awful.” “And what?” Julian Harrington raised an eyebrow. “And… she…” I stammered, then suddenly had an idea, “She’s wearing nail polish! Lab Safety Rule #9: No nail polish when handling instruments!” Skylar’s face changed. She instinctively hid her hand behind her back. Julian Harrington gave a faint smile: “Skylar, go wash it off.” After Skylar reluctantly left, Julian Harrington quietly asked me, “What’s really going on?” 6 I couldn’t help but complain in a low voice, “She stinks!” “How does she stink?” He suddenly leaned closer. “Like her dad?” My eyes widened in shock: “How did you know…?” “A guess.”

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The coastal breeze whipped Scarlett’s wedding gown around her as she embraced her childhood friend, Julian. The crowd around them chanted in unison, “Marry them! Marry them! Marry them!” Julian looked at Scarlett with a gaze so full of adoration it twisted something inside me. He knelt on one knee, taking her hand and bringing it to his lips. Clutching my aching chest, I turned and walked away. “Honey, I’m back!” “This business trip absolutely killed me.” Scarlett burst through the door two nights later, rushing towards me the moment she stepped inside. If I hadn’t been on the same business trip, if I hadn’t seen her and Julian intimately dressed in wedding attire with my own eyes… Perhaps, I might still believe that her entire world revolved around me as she ran into my arms. I sidestepped, avoiding her embrace, my face a mask of indifference. Scarlett’s steps faltered. A flicker of annoyance crossed her eyes. “Honey, why the long face? Are you upset because I was gone for too long?” She put on a sweet act, her arms gently opening, trying to melt into my embrace, just like she’d done countless times before. I remained silent. Before, whenever she’d pull that hurt, sweet act, I’d drop everything instantly, my world revolving around her. But now, I just sat there, unmoving. Scarlett’s face crumpled with feigned hurt, her eyes slowly welling up. “Honey, why are you treating me like this?” Her voice cracked, as if I were the one who had wronged her. “I have things to do. I’m going to rest.” Instead of heading to our bedroom, I turned towards the guest room. I barely stepped inside before Scarlett followed. She wrapped her arms around my arm, her soft body pressing against me. “Hmph, I even bought you a gift! And you’re giving me the cold shoulder the moment I get back?” With that, she held up an exquisite gift box. “Look! I bought you a watch. Do you like it?” She opened the box as she spoke, revealing an expensive men’s watch. But I knew this watch all too well. It was from a series I particularly liked, and Julian, who constantly tried to one-up me, had also expressed his admiration for this exact model to Scarlett. Scarlett had even promised to get him one for his birthday. Just this morning, I’d seen a photo Julian posted on his Ins story. He was wearing another, even more expensive watch from the same series, with a caption boasting that Scarlett had specially picked it out for him. Another photo showed a discarded watch in a trash can. It was the exact one Scarlett was holding in her hands. “Is it appropriate to give me something Julian threw away?” I asked, my voice chillingly cold. Scarlett’s face instantly paled. She quickly stammered, “I’ve always treated Julian like a brother. Giving him a watch… you’re not really upset about that, are you?” “I’m not particularly bothered, I just want a divorce,” I stated calmly. Scarlett froze, her face etched with disbelief. In the past, even if she’d just been angry and said she didn’t want to talk to me, I couldn’t bear it. But this time, I was the one suggesting divorce. “Liam, do you even know what you’re saying?!” Scarlett’s voice shot up, a clear tremor in her last words. “You want to divorce me over *this*?!” Her tone was a mix of anger and bewilderment. “It’s just a watch! Even if the one I gave you was discarded by him, it’s still worth a lot! I was willing to spend millions on you, and you’re still angry?” I couldn’t help but want to laugh. When did our relationship start being measured by money? She was always like this, never thinking she was in the wrong. If she couldn’t argue with me, she’d blame everything on me. I glanced at her dispassionately, unable to say anything more. “You’re absolutely beyond reasoning with!” she spat, then stood and left the guest room. I stood there, looking out at the bright sunny day, my thoughts drifting back a few years. I remembered how we met. It was outside a shopping mall. I was working a part-time promotional gig for the mall, wearing a uniform and a bunny ear headband because they thought I had ‘the look’. I was handing out flyers when I saw a few sleazy guys harassing Scarlett, their hands reaching for her face. No one around seemed willing to step in. Without hesitation, I rushed over and punched one of the jerks to the ground. But they outnumbered me. To protect Scarlett, I took some hits. Finally, my head was struck by a stick, and I blacked out. The thugs fled. Through the haze, I felt Scarlett cradling me, crying out amidst the noisy crowd. She was so gentle, so soft. She was the first person who had ever cried for me. Chapter Two After that day, I was left with lingering effects – occasional headaches in stressful situations. But I never regretted it. Because in my heart, she was the one worth fighting for, worth protecting with everything I had. Later, Sinclair Corp. came to our university to recruit, and Scarlett personally hand-picked me.

From the start, I knew Scarlett chose me only to repay a favor. And to avoid any rumors about her, I poured all my passion and effort into my work. Professionally, we were clearly defined as boss and subordinate. But in private, she loved calling me “Mr. Bunny,” and would always pester me for piggyback rides, saying that being carried by me was when she felt safest. Later, we naturally fell for each other. But Scarlett’s family elders didn’t approve. She fought fiercely against her family’s wishes, and that’s how our marriage came to be. The Sinclairs’ precious daughter marrying me, a man from an ordinary background, was seen as settling for less and an embarrassment in their eyes. So, we had no lavish wedding, just a quiet ceremony at City Hall. In public, I couldn’t even stand too close to her, as her family worried it would damage their reputation. With my work abilities and achievements, I should have been promoted to Department Head long ago, but the Sinclairs adamantly opposed it, keeping me as a low-level employee. For Scarlett, I endured all of it. She said that outside, she could be the formidable CEO Scarlett, but at home, she wanted to be my sweet girl. I thought we would live happily ever after. Until three months ago, when Julian returned from overseas. Scarlett took me to pick him up at the airport. The moment they reunited, Scarlett actually threw her arms around Julian in a tight embrace. In front of the bustling crowd, Julian excitedly swept Scarlett into his arms and spun her around. Anyone watching would have thought they were long-lost lovers reuniting. Scarlett, fearing my jealousy, quickly explained that they were childhood friends, and she saw Julian as a younger brother. Julian, knowing how to play the game, called me “bro” like we were best friends and even brought me a gift. At the time, I was foolishly naive and didn’t think much of it. Soon after, Julian joined the company. Despite knowing nothing about the business, he begged Scarlett to make him a Director. Scarlett knew that position meant everything to me, yet she still gave it to Julian. From then on, the two of them were inseparable at the company, both in public and private, appearing uncomfortably close. Though I felt uneasy, I believed Scarlett whenever she offered an explanation. Until that day, when I saw her in a wedding gown, embracing Julian tightly, and facing the crowd’s shouts of “Marry them!” She didn’t even object, not even a single word of explanation or an attempt to distance herself. I loved her, but I couldn’t love her to the point of losing myself and my dignity. My heart was completely dead. I wanted a divorce. I don’t know how long passed before I fell into a deep sleep, only to be awakened by a familiar scent. “Honey, I’m starving. Can you make me breakfast?” Scarlett’s nose gently brushed my cheek. I pushed her face away. This face, which once mesmerized me, now filled me with disgust. Scarlett stumbled, nearly falling. Her brow furrowed. “Are you serious? You threw a tantrum yesterday, and I came here specifically to make up, to give you an out, and you push me away?”

I ignored her, silently getting up and heading to the bathroom. Scarlett called after me, “Liam, what is your attitude? I’m not going to argue with you this time, but if you ever do that again, I’ll…” “You’ll what? Divorce me? Fine. Let’s go to City Hall right now.” “Are you out of your mind? When did I ever say I wanted a divorce?” “Liam, what’s gotten into you? You’ve been acting weird since yesterday!” Scarlett finally lost her composure, her emotions erupting. I gave her a cold glance. “Didn’t you and Julian already make your intentions clear on the beach?” Scarlett froze, her expression instantly flustered. Her words tumbled out disjointedly. “You couldn’t possibly know! I already had PR delete everything from that day!” “I was there that day. I saw it all with my own eyes.” “I saw Julian holding you tight, the crowd chanting for him to marry you, him kneeling, and you smiling back at him. Everything you both did, I saw it all.” “No, it’s not like that!” “Listen to me, honey, there’s a misunderstanding! Julian and I…” Chapter Three “Enough! No explanation is needed. I don’t care what his reason was, even if he was dying – if you had any respect for me, you wouldn’t have agreed to such inappropriate requests!” Scarlett’s face hardened. “I don’t need to explain myself, because to me, Julian is just a friend. I swear, I have never betrayed you!” “Emotional infidelity is still infidelity, Scarlett. Whether it’s a lingering glance or a physical act, the color of betrayal still feels the same to me.” I said calmly, “Scarlett, we’re getting a divorce. You should prepare yourself.” With that, I turned and left. Upon arriving at the office, I immediately immersed myself in work. Even though our department revolved around me, my workspace was cramped, a constant reminder of my undervalued position. I wanted to leave, but I couldn’t. I had signed an agreement that prevented me from resigning before the project was completed, or I would face severe consequences. Just then, a man approached. It was Kevin, Julian’s assistant. Kevin casually tossed a folder onto my desk, saying arrogantly, “Liam, your design draft was rejected. You’re paid so much, yet you can’t even handle a simple task? What exactly do you do around here?” He was Julian’s lackey, constantly finding ways to provoke me. Afterward, Julian would play the good cop, then go to Scarlett to score points, taking every opportunity to belittle me. I was used to it and ignored him. The design draft I’d given Julian was just a throwaway. He had no authority to decide on truly important projects. Suddenly, I felt a sudden splash. Kevin had picked up my water bottle and poured the entire contents over my head. “Are you deaf? Didn’t you hear me talking!” Even the calmest person would lose their temper. I barely stood up when a searing pain shot through my head. I fumbled in my pocket for my medicine bottle but couldn’t find it anywhere. “What’s with this reaction? Saying a few words and you’re already faking an illness? Pathetic for a grown man!” Kevin sneered. My colleagues froze, too scared to intervene. Kevin was known for making people’s lives hell. “What’s going on?” Julian walked in. Kevin immediately fawned over him. “Mr. Julian, you see? I just said a few words to Liam, and he poured water on himself to fake being sick.” Julian smiled, feigning concern while subtly twisting the knife. “Liam, as a key technical expert, professionalism is essential. Faking illness is not good behavior.” He took two steps closer, leaning in and whispering in my ear, “Headache acting up again, huh? When are you finally going to drop dead, Liam? Hurry up and die, so I can be with Scarlett, haha.” “You!” The headache intensified, and I collapsed onto my desk. A female colleague, Chloe, seeing my distress, rushed over to help me find my medication. She quickly located the pill bottle and bent down to put the medicine in my mouth. However, Kevin suddenly grabbed Chloe’s head, forcing her face towards mine, making it look like she was kissing my cheek. Then he shoved her, sending her tumbling right into my arms. “What are you doing?!” Scarlett’s furious voice suddenly echoed, like a wife catching her husband cheating.

That was Julian’s calculating move. Seeing Scarlett approach, he deliberately set me up. This way, the usually assertive Scarlett would get angry. And he, in turn, could seize the opportunity to console Scarlett. I had no energy to explain, but Chloe had kindly helped me. My silence would only drag her down with me. “I’m not feeling well. She was helping me find my medicine,” I said, standing up, trying to explain. Kevin, seeing his chance, eagerly spun a false narrative. “CEO Scarlett, don’t let Liam trick you. I just walked by, and he was harassing a female colleague!” Scarlett’s face instantly darkened. She gave me a cold glare, then turned to Chloe for confirmation. “Is that true?” Chloe looked flustered. Kevin stood nearby, threatening her with his eyes. She gritted her teeth, clearly torn, and then gave me an apologetic glance. “Yes…” she whispered, her voice barely audible. I sighed, understanding her difficult position. “Liam, how could you do this?” Scarlett’s tone was filled with disappointment. “Even if you’re a key technical expert, you can’t just harass my female employees!” Julian feigned a sigh beside her. “I heard you’re married. Imagine how heartbroken your wife would be if she found out.” I had just taken the medicine, feeling a slight relief, but this argument made me feel unwell again. “I’m really not well. I need to go to the hospital immediately.” I struggled to take a step. But Kevin reached out to block me. “You can’t leave. Who said you could just walk out?” “Let go of me!” I forcefully struggled out of his grip, accidentally falling to the ground. I noticed Julian’s foot subtly pulled back, and it clicked instantly. Chapter Four “Liam, you’re such a faker. You always play the tough guy, but now you’re suddenly so fragile?” Kevin sneered. Julian, meanwhile, feigned concern. “Don’t just stand there, someone help Liam up.” But Scarlett coldly ordered, “No one move! If he likes pretending to be sick, let him pretend!” I gasped, the searing pain in my head making it almost impossible to breathe. I could only weakly whisper, “Please… call an ambulance…” Scarlett paused. “What’s he saying?” Kevin immediately twisted the facts. “CEO Scarlett, he’s actually cursing you out…” “Enough!” Scarlett snapped, cutting Kevin off. Just then, Chloe bravely stepped forward to clarify. “CEO Scarlett, he’s saying to call an ambulance! Liam suffers from severe headaches; everyone in our department knows.” Scarlett finally realized. She quickly ordered, “Get him to the hospital! Now!” Kevin still tried to stir trouble. “CEO Scarlett, don’t worry, he’s definitely faking it.” “You shut up!” Scarlett glared at Kevin. The pungent smell of hospital disinfectant was the first thing that brought me back. By my bedside, Scarlett and Julian were practically glued together, heads bent in conversation, their faces alight with an inappropriate intimacy. I silently shifted. Julian was the first to notice I was awake. He suddenly put on a pained expression, his body gently twitching. “Julian, what’s wrong?” Scarlett asked, clutching him anxiously. “Sister Scarlett, my chest feels so tight, like I can’t breathe.” Julian said weakly. “I’ll get the doctor!” Scarlett hastily stood up, her gaze sweeping over me for only a brief moment before she hurried away. The doctor soon arrived. Seeing that I was also awake, he started to ask about my condition, but Scarlett cut him off. “Doctor, don’t mind him. Please check on my brother first, he’s in worse shape!” I smiled bitterly. This was the woman who swore to spend her life with me. The nurses wheeled Julian away, Scarlett following closely, never once looking back at me. I shook my head, my resolve for divorce strengthening further. I forced myself to sit up and left the hospital alone, returning home. I grabbed a bite to eat, then started packing my belongings. A little later, Scarlett also returned home. She rushed into the bedroom. Seeing me still there, her expression softened slightly. “Honey, are you feeling better? Is your head still hurting?” she asked gently. I truly wanted to laugh. She had abandoned me to take care of her “dear brother,” and now she asked this question? Didn’t she find herself ridiculous? Such an act! I gave her a cold glance, continuing to pack my clothes. “Scarlett, at the hospital, your choice said it all. Stop pretending.” “Liam, don’t say that. I really was worried about you,” Scarlett’s voice held a hint of panic. “Scarlett, from the moment we met until now, I’ve never asked you for anything. But now, I’m begging you, release me. Let’s get a divorce.” “No! I only ever loved you!” Scarlett hugged me from behind, her face pressed against my back. “In your heart, Julian is more important than I am. Even strangers could see there was something going on between you two.” I pried her hands away and turned to face her. “Let’s get a divorce. That way, you two can be together without any qualms.” Just then, the doorbell rang. Julian, dressed in a hospital gown, appeared at the door, looking extremely fragile. “Sister Scarlett, I was scared being alone at the hospital. Can I stay here tonight?” he asked cautiously. Scarlett looked at him, surprised and full of sympathy, then turned to me. “Liam, Julian is scared. Let him stay for one night.” I laughed. “So he gets to pretend to be sick and needs comfort, but I, who am actually dealing with a medical condition, am just supposed to fend for myself? Is that it?” “Whatever. We’re getting divorced anyway.” I picked up my suitcase, ready to leave. Scarlett grabbed me, pleading, “Liam, don’t be like this. Julian is just sick and wants to feel safe. Do you really have to get a divorce over this?” “Scarlett, whether he came tonight or not, divorce is inevitable. Besides, he’s not an orphan, does he not have his own home? Why does he have to come here?” I said coldly. Chapter Five “Sister Scarlett, Liam, please don’t fight. I’ll just go.” Julian feigned an attempt to leave. “You’re not going anywhere!” Scarlett stopped him sternly, then glared at me. “Liam, I’m letting Julian stay here. Do you have a problem with that?” “I have no problem, because we’ve already decided to divorce,” I said calmly, unwilling to argue further. Scarlett stomped her foot in anger. “Why are you so stubborn? I love you, Liam! Julian is just my brother!” I let out a soft laugh. “Scarlett, I’ll give you a choice. Send him away and promise to cut off all contact, and I won’t bring up divorce again. Otherwise, agree to the divorce.” Scarlett was torn. Julian couldn’t help but complain, “Bro, why are you so petty? You’re seriously jealous of me?” “Don’t mind him!” Scarlett said softly to Julian, then glared at me. “Liam, don’t be so unreasonable!” I shook my head and turned to leave, my heart feeling nothing. At this time of day, the sounds of families having dinner echoed from every household in the neighborhood. Watching the warm lights and hearing the sounds, I thought back to all my moments with Scarlett, all the love and promises we once shared, now all empty. Ever since Julian came back, everything had changed. She was no longer my Scarlett. The moment I saw her in a wedding gown, intimately intertwined with Julian, I completely gave up on her.

The next day, I went to work as usual. I needed to finish this project quickly so I could leave Sinclair Corp. sooner. Soon after I arrived, Kevin appeared at my desk again. He stood with his arms crossed, smugly saying, “Liam, how do you still have the nerve to show up at work?” I put down my pen and leaned back in my chair, responding as calmly as possible: “I’ll submit my resignation after I finish this project, which I’m sure Julian would be happy about. So, if I were you, I wouldn’t cause trouble right now. Instead, you should help me finish this project efficiently.” Kevin paused, clearly realizing my words weren’t empty threats. But then, he sneered: “But I think if you can’t finish the project and leave, your reputation in the industry will be ruined, and it’ll be tough to find another job. Mr. Julian would probably prefer that outcome, wouldn’t he?” As he spoke, he reached out to touch me. I grabbed his wrist and twisted hard, then kicked him. He cried out and fell to the floor. I grabbed the water bottle from my desk and smashed it against his face. “Your mouth just loves to run, doesn’t it?” “You want to mess with me? Don’t you know who you’re dealing with!” “Do you really think being Julian’s lapdog means you can bark at everyone?” I spoke with force, each word seeming to accompany a crack against his teeth. Design department colleagues heard the commotion and gathered, but no one stepped forward to stop me. Kevin usually lorded his power over everyone, and he’d made many enemies, but everyone was too scared to speak out. Soon, Julian rushed over, his face pale, shouting, “Call the cops! Why are you all just standing there? Call the cops!” “Security? Get over here and restrain Liam!” Julian was clearly terrified. I was known for my calm demeanor, and no one had ever seen this violent side of me. “Don’t call the police!” Scarlett suddenly stormed through the crowd, her tone sharper with Julian. “Calling the police will affect the company’s image!” “But CEO Scarlett, Liam attacked me!” Julian protested. Scarlett took a deep breath and looked at me. “Liam, I didn’t realize you were so violent…” “From the first day he joined, he’s constantly caused me trouble. You wouldn’t believe me if I told you, so I just recorded our conversation. You can listen for yourself.” I calmly opened my phone and played the recording of Kevin and me. Scarlett’s expression instantly became complicated. She even glared at Julian, realizing he was behind all this. I stood up and met Scarlett’s gaze. “Being targeted like this every day, if I kept letting it happen, I might as well just resign. So, do you still think this is violence? I’m just defending myself!” “Hmph, you didn’t ‘tolerate’ anything. I think you’re the most vicious one,” Julian sneered from the side. I pointed at him. “Shut your mouth! If I wasn’t vicious, how do you think I protected Scarlett from those thugs back then, fighting off several of them alone? My condition is a result of that day!” At these words, the whole office erupted. No one had known about that part of Scarlett and my past. Someone whispered, “What exactly is the relationship between Liam and CEO Scarlett?” I didn’t answer, just looked at Scarlett, waiting for her reaction. Chapter Six Scarlett took a deep breath, and to everyone’s surprise, she took my hand and said, “I am Liam’s wife. We’ve been secretly married for years. We didn’t make it public because he didn’t want special treatment.” At these words, the whole office erupted. Kevin, lying on the floor, also stared wide-eyed, terrified. But I pulled my hand away, stating calmly, “CEO Scarlett is right, but we are indeed getting a divorce soon, and I’ll be resigning once this project is complete. So, everyone can just pretend nothing happened.” This time, the shock in the room reached its peak. They couldn’t understand why I would divorce Scarlett. I ignored Scarlett’s pale face, crouched down, and patted Kevin’s cheek: “Here’s a lesson for you, Kevin. When your boss tells you to target someone, you’re just a disposable pawn. You’ve already made yourself dirty.” I turned to Julian. “Mr. Julian, shouldn’t Kevin be fired?” Julian gritted his teeth. “Kevin is my assistant. He’s very capable. I won’t…” But Scarlett cut him off. “Fire him. Immediately.” I stood and looked at Julian. “Sinclair Corp. doesn’t tolerate scandals. A project director instructing his assistant to bully a key technical expert—that would cause too much damage if it got out.” Julian trembled with anger, but was speechless. I added, “But I guess it doesn’t matter. You have the capital to be reckless, don’t you? Who can resist a man as popular with women as you?” At that moment, Julian’s face visibly drained of color, then turned a furious shade of crimson. He froze, his lips trembling slightly. It was clear he wanted to say something, but before he could, Scarlett’s icy glare stopped him. Helpless, he could only glare at me with seething hatred. In his infinite rage, this seemed to be his only outlet. I ignored him, turned back to my desk, and opened my computer to continue working. The sooner this project was done, the sooner I could leave this place. Aside from us, the direct participants, the other employees stared wide-eyed, utterly bewildered. The entire office was thick with tension and unease. “CEO Scarlett, if there’s nothing else, I’ll get back to work.” Julian forced a smile, greeted Scarlett, and turned to leave. The atmosphere in the office was clearly not to his liking. “Mr. Julian.” Just then, Scarlett called out to Julian’s retreating back, breaking the awkward silence in the office. “CEO Scarlett, do you have any other instructions?” Julian stopped, a wide smile plastered on his face as he looked at Scarlett. Scarlett stood there, her gaze lingering on me for a moment before she looked at Julian and said coldly: “Mr. Julian, due to your staffing error and the negative impact it has had on the company, I’ve decided to suspend you. You can go home tomorrow and rest.” 6. **Boom!** Scarlett’s voice wasn’t loud, but it still sparked a small murmur of discussion in the quiet office. Everyone looked at Scarlett and Julian in astonishment. No one had expected Scarlett to impose such a severe punishment on Julian. Julian stood frozen for a long moment, then looked at Scarlett, his face incredulous. “Scarlett, are you crazy? You’re suspending me for *this* incompetent waste of space?” “Incompetent waste of space? What gives you the right to call him that?” Scarlett sneered at Julian, then said with a stern face: “Liam is Sinclair Corp.’s technical core. The entire company’s operations are built upon the foundation Liam established. The company can exist without a Director, but it cannot exist without Liam.” At that moment, Julian was so choked by Scarlett’s words that he couldn’t speak. He stared intently at Scarlett, frozen for a few moments, before finally gritting his teeth and nodding heavily: “Fine, since CEO Scarlett has made her decision, I respect the company’s punishment.” “Good. Suspension is indefinite. Go home and wait for further notice.” Scarlett’s expression was cold, her icy gaze more chilling than a summer air conditioner. Julian looked at the cold Scarlett, clenching his fists tightly. Then he abruptly turned, pushed through the crowd, and left the office in disgrace. Though I had heard their conversation and knew Scarlett was doing this to get back at him for me, I didn’t look up at either of them, my fingers still rapidly tapping on the keyboard. I understood that Scarlett’s actions, while ostensibly defending me, were actually a way to manipulate me. Chapter Seven For my sake, she could make anyone in the company leave. That way, if I ever wanted to leave the company, I would be painted as the villain. Scarlett didn’t bother me again. Instead, she walked over to my side, the earlier coldness melting from her face as she looked at me with a warm smile: “Liam, don’t forget the family dinner my parents arranged. Make sure you’re not late.” “Scarlett, don’t put on a show for everyone here. I told you we’re getting a divorce. You don’t need to do this.” I still didn’t look up, my voice flat as I rejected her enthusiasm. To prevent myself from being emotionally manipulated again in the future, I had to make my stance clear now. Hearing my answer, Scarlett visibly froze for a moment, even her breathing hitched. But only for a moment. Her face quickly returned to its warm expression. She leaned in gently and whispered in my ear: “Honey, this entire company is your life’s work. Can you really bear to abandon the empire you built with your own hands just for your stubbornness? And you have a team, you have colleagues who fought alongside you. Can you bear to see them lose their livelihoods because of you?” At that moment, I, who thought I could face all this calmly, felt my heart twist with a familiar ache. She was right. Those were the things I cared about most. It seemed my guess was right. She was resorting to emotional manipulation. My fingers paused on the keyboard on my desk. After a moment, I nodded heavily: “Whatever you say.” After these few soft words, my fingers once again tapped the keyboard, and I continued working without looking up. Nothing lasts forever, and I had to take responsibility for my own future. I didn’t want to live like this anymore. Seeing my resolve, Scarlett said no more. She stood up and turned to leave. Her heels clicked crisply on the floor, echoing through the office. *Tap, tap, tap…* At that moment, it was like a predator marking its territory, declaring its dominance to everything around. 7. During lunch, the atmosphere in the office remained incredibly tense. Everyone seemed to be still reeling from the morning’s events. My colleagues dared not speak, only occasionally glancing my way, their eyes filled with a thirst for gossip. “Liam, are you and CEO Scarlett… really getting a divorce?” Daniel, a colleague I usually got along with, walked over, holding a cup of coffee. I gave him a bitter smile, saying nothing, just nodding gently. “Ah…” Seeing my silence, Daniel awkwardly chuckled, took a sip of his coffee, and turned to leave. “Liam, did what happened yesterday make CEO Scarlett misunderstand something? I’m willing to go to her office and explain again… I really was just worried yesterday; I didn’t mean anything else.” Chloe, the female colleague who had helped me find my medicine yesterday evening, walked over, her face full of apology. “It’s okay. This has nothing to do with you. If anything, I should thank you.” I looked at Chloe, shaking my head slightly, letting out a long sigh. Chloe looked at my tired face, biting her lip. She wanted to say something but ultimately didn’t, sighing before she left. I watched Chloe’s retreating back, gently rubbing my temples. The dull throb of yesterday’s headache still lingered, and today’s aggravating events made my mind feel like a complete mess. Julian’s provocations, Scarlett’s threats, the undercurrents in the company… All of it felt like an invisible net, trapping me tighter and tighter. In the afternoon, the project team held a meeting. As the lead technical expert, I reported on the progress to senior management as usual. In the conference room, Scarlett sat at the head of the table, her gaze occasionally sweeping over me, carrying an unsettling tenderness. I tried my best to ignore her, focusing on explaining the project details. Just as I was about to conclude, an unfamiliar voice suddenly spoke up. “Mr. Knight, your project progress seems to be lagging.” I looked up and saw a middle-aged man in a suit. He sat next to Scarlett, his smile friendly, yet exuding an unsettling pressure. “This is Mr. Davies, a representative from Cloud Corp.” Seeing the confusion in my eyes, Scarlett smiled and explained, “Cloud Corp. is one of the investors in this project, so Mr. Davies is concerned about the progress.” I frowned, looking at the unfamiliar man. A sense of unease rose within me. Chapter Eight Although Cloud Corp. was a partner of Sinclair Corp., I had never heard of any external involvement in the investment details of this project. Now, this man suddenly appearing felt like someone with ill intentions.

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Everyone in the capital city used to say Aubrey Vance was fortunate, that she’d married a wonderful husband. Caleb Vance, Chief of the Elite Security Task Force, was a rising star. Accomplished and exceptionally capable, he was the man every woman dreamed of. He was cold and distant to everyone, yet his sole tenderness was reserved for Aubrey. But only Aubrey knew that Caleb’s heart had long been claimed by another woman. Aubrey’s eyes were red when she found Serena Harrison outside the State Department. Before she could even speak, her wrist was seized in a death grip. It was Caleb. He dragged her towards their home, his strength frightening. “What kind of scene are you trying to create here? Get in the car, now!” Aubrey struggled. “I need to find Serena, to get to the bottom of what happened to my father all those years ago!” “That case was closed ages ago!” Caleb’s voice was devoid of emotion. “That was a rivalry between their fathers, it has nothing to do with Serena. Stop making things difficult for her!” Aubrey scoffed, a bitter laugh escaping her. “I’m not making things difficult for her! I just want the truth! Make her father, Mr. Harrison, come and face me!” “Aubrey, stop making baseless accusations.” Caleb’s brows furrowed into a tight knot. “Serena is a vital diplomatic talent, just returned from studying abroad. She can’t afford any negative publicity!” “Your father’s case was handled by the authorities a long time ago. Why are you still clinging to this? It won’t do you any good.” “I will not let it go!” Aubrey stared into Caleb’s eyes, wanting to say more. He knew how much this festered inside her— *“Slap!”* A sharp, stinging sound. Aubrey’s face was knocked sideways, a fiery pain erupting on her cheek. She looked at him, utterly disbelieving. “You… you hit me? For her?” Caleb looked at his own hand, momentarily stunned, a flicker of regret crossing his face. But he quickly hardened his expression, resuming his righteous demeanor. “If I hadn’t slapped you, how would you have calmed down? Stop being so irrational.” “Serena just returned, and I’ve been assigned by command to protect her. If you cause any more trouble, I’ll have to handle this officially!” That single slap shattered the last vestiges of hope in Aubrey’s heart. Aubrey didn’t argue with Caleb any further. That very night, she took a train back to the county precinct where her father had once worked and submitted a transfer request. Mr. Hayes, an old comrade of her father, was overjoyed to see Aubrey. “Aubrey, I’m so glad you’re transferring back and reopening your father’s badge number! All us old timers are thrilled!” Then his expression shifted, a hint of worry in his voice. “But your husband is with the Elite Security Task Force in the capital. If you come back here, won’t you two be separated?” Aubrey’s hand paused. She offered a dry laugh. “Mr. Hayes, I’ve taken a week off to finalize my divorce.” Mr. Hayes was momentarily stunned but didn’t press further. He simply patted Aubrey’s shoulder. “Don’t worry. All of us here, your uncles and mentors, will look out for you.” Aubrey’s nose stung. She took a deep breath and strode out of the police department. Returning to the home she’d lived in for years, Caleb’s scent still seemed to linger. Aubrey pulled open a drawer and dumped out all the old items inside. Faded photographs, letters he’d written to her, and the bullet casing ring he’d made with his own hands. She was lost in thought when the door burst open with a *bang!* Caleb stormed in, radiating a chilling aura. He snatched the photos from her hand, glaring at her fiercely. “Aubrey! Why did you run back to the county without telling me? Why haven’t you answered my calls for the past two days?” “Are you still obsessed with what happened, looking for your father’s old comrades to go after Serena again?” “I’m telling you, they’re old men. No matter how far they try to reach, I’m in the capital. If they think they can hurt Serena, they’re dreaming!” His eyes were bloodshot as he gripped her wrist, his force so strong it felt like he might crush her bones. Aubrey endured the searing pain in her hand, staring coldly at him, a sarcastic smile twisting her lips. “What’s wrong? Is she feeling guilty? Afraid I’ll uncover something by returning to the county?” Caleb knew she was talking about Serena, and his face darkened further. He thought she was still jealous, still throwing a tantrum. He looked down and saw the red marks his grip had left on Aubrey’s wrist, finally softening his tone. “Aubrey, don’t be like this. While I do have personal feelings for Serena, my primary duty in assisting her is to complete the mission assigned by command. It’s for the country, for…” “Stop using that as an excuse!” Aubrey cut him off directly. “Caleb, aren’t you disgusted with yourself?” Caleb was already at a loss for words, knowing he was in the wrong. He suddenly swept Aubrey into his arms, roughly tossing her onto the bed. The next second, his hot body pressed down on hers. Aubrey’s lower abdomen had just endured a catastrophe; she hadn’t even fully recovered from the miscarriage yet, and her body ached terribly. She struggled with all her might. “Let go of me!” “Caleb, stop pretending you care! Don’t touch me, you make me sick!” Caleb saw Aubrey’s resistance, and anger surged through him. How *dare* she say such things? She used to blush at his slightest touch. Now she found him disgusting? Caleb scoffed. “Stop playing innocent! Isn’t this just because you feel neglected and are trying to get a rise out of Serena? I’ll satisfy you right now!” “It’ll save you from constantly throwing jealous fits and interfering with my work!” Aubrey’s body was incredibly sore; she was no match for Caleb. But even so, she fought back with every ounce of strength. The thought of his tenderness towards Serena made her stomach churn. Just then, the phone by the bed rang, its sound piercing. Caleb’s movements froze. He got up to answer the call, his voice instantly softening. “Serena? What’s wrong? Don’t rush, I’ll be right there.” He hung up, not even glancing at Aubrey on the bed. He grabbed his jacket and rushed out. The door clicked shut, and silence descended upon the room once more. Aubrey lay on the cold bed, dizzy and disoriented. Caleb didn’t return all night, and Aubrey lay there, fully clothed, enduring the entire night. Chapter 3 The next morning, Aubrey changed into casual clothes and went to the police department. Her residency was still registered in the capital, and with her job transferred to the county, her residency would need to be moved as well. Just as she was about to enter the department, Aubrey saw a few familiar figures across the street. Caleb and Serena stood side by side under a large oak tree, with Officer Miller, Caleb’s aide, standing nearby. Even from a distance, Officer Miller’s loud voice carried clearly. “Caleb, you and Serena were so good together back then. Now that she’s come back for you, why don’t you make a move?” Serena hung her head, a faint smile on her lips. Officer Miller pressed on. “Serena studied abroad, she’s a highly educated talent, now a junior diplomat. She’s beautiful, so many people are asking about her!” Caleb’s brows were furrowed, and he was about to speak, but Serena, blushing, spoke first. “Officer Miller, don’t talk nonsense.” “Caleb is married. It wouldn’t be good if Aubrey heard that.” As she spoke, a hint of worry clouded her brow. Officer Miller seemed deeply sympathetic, unconsciously raising his voice. “You don’t understand! He doesn’t have those kinds of feelings for Aubrey. They’re just settling for each other!” Aubrey looked at Caleb from afar. He didn’t refute it. Instead, he abruptly changed the subject. “Enough. It’s more important to take care of Serena’s business. I still have to get back to my post later.” Serena chuckled softly. “You’re truly too kind, both of you.” The three walked side by side, a sight that sent a sharp pang through Aubrey’s chest. Leaving him was a rational decision. But her heart, it was disobedient. It wasn’t like a faucet that could be turned off at will. All she could do was tell herself, *It’s okay. The pain will fade soon.* Aubrey entered the police department first. After greeting her old colleagues, she handed her household registration booklet to the counter. “I want to transfer my residency out of the capital.” No sooner had she spoken than a soft, sweet voice came from behind her. “Hello, officer. I’m here to apply for a residency transfer.” Aubrey turned around, directly meeting Caleb’s deep, unfathomable eyes. His face was devoid of emotion, his voice giving no hint of his feelings. “You’re transferring your residency out?” Caleb was always like this. He wouldn’t ask why she was back in the county, wouldn’t ask why she was transferring out. It was as if any decision she made had nothing to do with him. Aubrey casually retrieved her registration booklet. “Yes.” “You’re processing her transfer in? Perfect. I’m transferring out, making room for her.” Caleb’s gaze darkened, but he said nothing. Aubrey sighed inwardly. He truly didn’t care. Caleb glanced at her casual clothes, remembering her miscarriage, and his voice dropped a few tones. “Your body hasn’t even fully recovered, and you’re causing trouble again? Did you follow me just to argue? Can’t you make a little less fuss?” Aubrey was about to say something when Serena, who had been at the counter, suddenly walked back, looking wronged. “Caleb, the officer at the counter says my documents are incomplete, so I can’t process it.” She saw Aubrey standing beside Caleb and her tone suddenly softened, pleading plaintively. “Aubrey, he’s your colleague. Could you… could you help him out?” “My current department requires capital residency to get official benefits…” She hadn’t finished her sentence before Aubrey cut her off. “I’m sorry, Serena. Rules are rules. They apply to everyone; there are no exceptions.” “Next time, please bring all your documents.” Serena’s eyes immediately welled up, and she stood there helplessly, looking utterly wronged, as if she’d been bullied. Caleb’s brows instantly furrowed into a tight knot. “If she can’t process it, she can’t process it. Do you need to be so rude to her?” Aubrey raised her eyes, her voice slightly hoarse. “Chief Vance, don’t you always say that without rules, there’s no order?” “If one person gets special treatment, then everyone will expect it in the future, right?” Caleb was choked by her words, unable to retort. “This isn’t some major principled matter. Why are you being so aggressive?” “We’re all colleagues. It’s something you could easily handle, so why stick to the rules so strictly?” Aubrey was utterly stunned. Caleb Vance, Chief of the Elite Security Task Force, a man known for his strict self-discipline and rigid adherence to orders, whose private life was as meticulously structured as a ruler. But when it came to Serena, all rules, all principles, simply vanished. Serena, tearful, whispered from the side, “Please don’t argue. It’s all my fault. I shouldn’t have made such an unreasonable request…” Caleb immediately comforted her. “It’s not your fault.” Aubrey forced a smile. If it wasn’t Serena’s fault, then it must be hers, right? Of course. When you’re not loved, everything you do feels wrong. An indescribable surge of injustice welled up in her throat, and her eyes quickly misted over. She turned and walked quickly towards the inner offices. By the time she finished her paperwork and emerged, Caleb and Serena were no longer in the lobby. Only the murmur of her colleagues’ gossip drifted over. “Did you see her? That was Chief Vance’s first love. She’s really beautiful.” “No wonder Aubrey’s transferring out. Who could stand that?” “What makes that woman better than Aubrey? Aubrey’s amazing, a top investigator at the department!” “You don’t get it. Women who are too strong aren’t good. Men like those soft, sweet ones who can flirt…” Aubrey didn’t dare look up, walking quickly out. She feared someone would see her reddened eyes. She didn’t stop until she reached the main entrance, then she paused, turning to look at the Wall of Honor outside the police department. Her photo hung there, in uniform, looking dashing and resolute, with a long list of awards beneath it. Aubrey looked at her reflection in the photo, wiped away her tears, and whispered to herself. “Aubrey, remember, you became a police officer not to be liked by any man.” “You have more important things to do. Look up, move forward. For your father, you must be strong!” Her dream was to be a good police officer, to uncover the truth behind her father’s unjust case. And then, like her father, to uphold justice, fight evil, and protect the innocent! Aubrey straightened her back and walked out the police department doors. Chapter 4 It was still early, and Aubrey, having left the police department, suddenly didn’t know what to do. In all her years in the capital, her heart had been solely focused on her work and Caleb. She hadn’t really explored the city on her own. She had once playfully tugged on Caleb’s arm, saying she wanted to go boating in Northlake Park, wanted to see the sunset from Hilltop Garden. But Caleb always put her off, citing his busy schedule. Aubrey followed the crowd, unknowingly visiting many places. Northlake Park, Hilltop Garden, the Department Store… All the places she’d wanted to go with Caleb but had been repeatedly refused, she now visited alone, one by one. Aubrey stopped abruptly outside the Culture Palace. Caleb was walking into the movie theater with Serena. The chalkboard outside the cinema announced the day’s screening: *Love on Mount Lushan*. It was a romance film, one she had wanted to see. But when she’d asked Caleb, he’d said, “Given our positions, it’s not appropriate to spend all our time watching these romantic things.” But she hardly ever watched them. Caleb seemed to have forgotten that they had never once been to the movies together. Aubrey leaned against the wall, watching Caleb hand Serena a cream popsicle as they walked in, shoulder to shoulder. She offered a helpless smile. It turned out Chief Vance wasn’t busy; he just wasn’t busy *with her*. It turned out she, his wife, wasn’t allowed any special treatment. Aubrey simply let her mind wander, strolling aimlessly until she found herself home. By the time she pushed open the door, it was half past five. Caleb was already back. In their three years of marriage, his military duties kept him so busy that he’d never been home this early. Aubrey asked, “So early? No need to look after her anymore?” Caleb didn’t answer. Aubrey glanced at the sunset outside the window, speaking to herself. “I walked around a bit today. The capital is really vast!” Caleb flinched, his brows unconsciously furrowing. “We agreed I’d take you when I had time.” Aubrey recalled all the unfulfilled promises and simply chuckled softly. “I realized that many things, I can do by myself.” A peculiar, unidentifiable feeling stirred in Caleb’s heart. He skipped the topic. “Tonight, let’s eat at the classic restaurant downtown. Serena insisted on treating us to dinner.” He added, “A few of my comrades will be there too. It’s not just her and me.” Aubrey’s brow subtly twitched. She didn’t want to go, not at all. She didn’t even care how many people would be at the dinner, or if Serena would be alone with Caleb. “What? You don’t want to go?” Caleb noticed her hesitation, and his tone instantly turned cold. “Serena feels a little bad about today’s incident and genuinely wants to treat you to dinner. You’re unwilling to go?” “Aubrey, are you trying to make us look ridiculous? To make Serena think you’re narrow-minded and still holding a grudge?” “Everyone knows we’re married. How can a wife not attend? Won’t people think you’re bothered by Serena?” “Do you really want to see her talked about behind her back?” Aubrey looked at the pressure in his eyes and finally conceded. “Fine, I’ll go.” Caleb breathed a sigh of relief, rubbing her hair as he often did. “Give me a moment to shower and change.” When Caleb emerged from the room, he had changed out of his uniform. White shirt, black pants, hair still damp, even freshly shaven. He looked incredibly refreshed. Aubrey forced a smile. It seemed not only women primped for those who pleased them; men did too. She remembered once complaining that Caleb’s stubble was scratchy, and he’d lectured her then, telling her to focus on her work. By the time they arrived at the classic restaurant, Serena and the others were already there. Caleb’s comrades were seated in the private room. When they saw Aubrey, they greeted her warmly as “Chief’s wife.” Only Officer Miller was busy pouring tea, seemingly oblivious to her presence. Aubrey didn’t mind and found a seat. Halfway through the meal, a plate of stir-fried chicken chunks was brought out. Serena saw it and naturally served Caleb a piece with her fork. “Caleb, you love this the most. Eat more.” Caleb’s hand, holding his fork, paused. He said in a deep voice, “Eat your own. Don’t worry about me.” He said that, but still put the chicken in his mouth. Serena then seemed to realize Aubrey was present, suddenly looking up with an apologetic expression. “Aubrey, Chief’s wife, please don’t misunderstand, we…” She stopped mid-sentence, her face gradually turning red, looking distressed and unsure how to explain. Aubrey finished her sentence for her. “I know. You two were first loves.” The entire private room fell silent. No one had expected Aubrey to bring it up so directly. Serena’s face turned from green to pale. But Aubrey smiled faintly, as if stating the most ordinary fact. “But that’s all in the past. Now, we’re all comrades, pure and simple. Helping each other, looking out for each other, is only right.” “Let’s eat!” Forks clinked again, but everyone at the table was lost in their own thoughts. Caleb’s eyes were shadowed, lost in thought. Serena also settled down, making no more subtle gestures. After a few rounds of drinks, one of Caleb’s comrades raised his glass. “Come on, it’s rare for Chief Vance and his wife to join us for dinner. Let’s all drink a toast!” Serena coughed lightly, delicately covering her mouth. “Oh dear, I… I can’t drink much. My throat hasn’t been feeling well lately.” Caleb’s gaze immediately fell on her, with a hint of concern. He turned to Aubrey, his tone calm but unyielding. “Aubrey, Serena isn’t feeling well. Please drink on her behalf.” Aubrey’s body stiffened. Drink on her behalf? She had just had a miscarriage, her lower abdomen still ached, and her body hadn’t fully recovered. He was actually asking her to drink for Serena! Aubrey’s face paled. She looked at Caleb, searching for a trace of hesitation or pity in his eyes. But Caleb’s eyes held only Serena. “Drink it. I know you can handle your liquor. Is it so hard to help Serena?” he spoke again, his voice deeper. Seeing this, the other comrades also started urging her to drink. Aubrey’s hand trembled as she picked up the glass. Under everyone’s gaze, she tilted her head back and downed it. The pungent liquor slid down her throat, burning her esophagus, and her heart. As soon as the alcohol hit her stomach, she immediately felt dizzy, and her stomach began to ache. The comrades around them exchanged glances, the atmosphere becoming even more subtle. They had expected Aubrey to cause a scene, but she had drunk it down so readily. Caleb ignored his wife’s pale face, pouring a bowl of soup for Serena. “You haven’t been well lately. This soup is good for you, drink more.” Serena’s lips curved slightly. “Mmm, Caleb, you’re still as thoughtful as ever.” Aubrey swayed, almost falling. She clenched her hands tightly under the table, her nails almost digging into her palms, finally regaining her composure. After dinner, Serena suddenly smiled and invited everyone. “It’s still early. Why don’t you all come over to my place for a bit?” She added, a little shyly, “Actually, today is my birthday.” “I was afraid you wouldn’t want to come, so I only dared to say it now.” Everyone chuckled and agreed to go. Caleb, without asking Aubrey’s preference, pulled her along with him. Upon arriving at Serena’s apartment, while she was in the back room boiling water, Caleb walked over to Aubrey. He lowered his voice, with clear reproach. “Aubrey, you shouldn’t have said those things at the dinner table earlier.” “Serena isn’t married yet; how will she face people later? You embarrassed her so much, and she’s a sensitive person…” “How many times do I have to tell you? Your fathers’ old feuds are their business. It has nothing to do with her. Stop deliberately making things difficult for her!” Aubrey looked into his eyes and asked very seriously, “So, do I need to apologize to her?” Caleb was silent for a moment, then his tone softened, but his words were even more hurtful. “Yes.” “Not only do you need to apologize, but I also hope you’ll talk to her and comfort her. She must be very upset right now, and I don’t feel comfortable leaving her alone.” In an instant, a thick layer of mist clouded Aubrey’s eyes. She suddenly let out a soft laugh, but a clear sniffle came with it. “Caleb, do you remember what day it is today?” Chapter 5 Caleb frowned, asking confusedly, “What day?” Today was her father’s death anniversary. He didn’t remember. Aubrey shook her head, a smile still on her lips. “Never mind.” “Caleb, let’s get a divo—” Her words were abruptly cut off by a sharp scream. Serena’s hot water kettle *clanged* to the floor, splashing scalding water onto her foot. Before Aubrey could react, the man beside her had already rushed past everyone. Caleb was known for his composure. But at this moment, the panic in his eyes was something Aubrey had never seen. He didn’t even wait for someone to bring the car, instead bending down to scoop Serena into his arms and striding rapidly towards the nearest hospital. At the hospital, a group of people crowded around Serena like stars around the moon. “It’s nothing serious, just a minor burn. Apply some ointment, and it’ll heal in a few days.” Caleb, who had been guarding the door of the hospital room, finally let out a sigh of relief when he heard the doctor’s words. A nurse helped Serena walk away. Caleb strode over to Aubrey, who was in a corner, his face as cold as ice. “Aubrey, come with me.” Aubrey was silent for a moment, then looked up. “Caleb, I have something to say to you.” Caleb frowned deeply, his eyes cold. “Whatever it is, say it later.” “Right now, come inside with me and apologize to Serena.” Aubrey flinched, staring at him in disbelief. “Apologize? Why should I apologize?” “Did I push her? Did I scald her? She couldn’t hold the kettle herself, and that’s my fault too?” Caleb’s eyes became even more accusatory. “You’re still being sarcastic!” “If you hadn’t said those things at dinner, making Serena distracted, how would she have gotten hurt?” “Go and admit your mistake to her. It might make her feel better.” Aubrey’s hands trembled slightly as she countered, “So you think her injury is my fault?” Seeing Aubrey’s pale face, Caleb felt a pang of guilt, but thinking of Serena, he hardened his expression again. “If we’re to trace the cause, you also bear some responsibility.” “Go apologize. Whatever you want to say to me, I’ll listen seriously later.” Aubrey stared fixedly at Caleb, and a laugh escaped her, but there was no mirth in her eyes, only tears that streamed down her face. Caleb had never seen Aubrey like this. He instinctively reached out to wipe her tears. But Aubrey sharply turned her head, avoiding his hand. “Yes, I was wrong.” “I shouldn’t have been foolish enough to marry a man who didn’t love me at all.” Caleb tried to step closer, but she stopped him with a raised hand. “Don’t come near me.” Between them, it was as if an unbridgeable chasm had opened. “Caleb, let’s get a divorce.” She laughed freely. “It’s time for me to pay for my mistakes.” After she spoke, she saw a momentary blankness and helplessness on Caleb’s face. It took him a long time to find his voice. “Aubrey, don’t say things you don’t mean.” “If you don’t want to apologize to Serena, then don’t. Just don’t be like this.” Aubrey smiled, her eyes misty with tears. “I’ve never been more serious than I am right now.” Even at this point, he still thought she was saying it out of anger. He truly had never understood her. “Let’s go home and talk, okay?” Caleb’s voice held an urgency he hadn’t even noticed himself. “You must have misunderstood something…” Aubrey closed her eyes, and when she reopened them, they were clear. “Alright, let’s go back first.” She also didn’t want to make a scene in a hospital, for all to know. His status was special; a divorce required his consent and military approval before paperwork could be processed. Just as they were about to turn, Officer Miller’s voice suddenly came from behind them. “Caleb, where are you going? Serena is looking for you.” Caleb paused, then frowned and looked back. “Tell her I’ll see her tomorrow.” No sooner had he spoken than Serena’s muffled sobs and screams erupted from the hospital room. Caleb didn’t hesitate for a second, turning and rushing inside. Aubrey smiled, her face showing indifference. She turned around, tilted her head back slightly, and forced the mist from her eyes. Tears, like anything else, had their worth. If no one cared, they were shed in vain. Chapter 6 Aubrey returned home alone. This home, which she had personally decorated and once believed she’d live in forever, now felt like an ice-cold vault.

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On the third anniversary of Hazel Miller and Julian Thorne’s marriage, Hazel’s sister, Seraphina Hayes, returned from abroad. Hazel wanted to invite her sister over for dinner. But before she could, she overheard Seraphina’s emotional voice from her and her husband’s bedroom. “Seraphina, it’s been three years since I married her, and I’ve listened to you. I haven’t touched her once. When will your test finally end?” “That depends on your performance, darling!” Hazel’s lips trembled, as if she couldn’t believe the two sentences she’d just heard. Three years ago, an arranged marriage between the Miller and Thorne families was set. Seraphina Hayes was originally supposed to marry Julian Thorne. But her sister had told her, “I don’t like Julian. I don’t want to be a pawn in a business marriage. So, you take my place at the altar!” Hazel had grown up in an orphanage and was later taken in by the Millers. Their financial support had allowed her to study all the way through college. To repay their kindness, she agreed to the substitute marriage.

Then, Julian Thorne’s voice continued. “You just wanted to test if I could resist other women’s temptations, right? If you don’t believe me, let her get tested. I swear I haven’t touched her!” “Besides, our marriage certificate is fake. If you’re willing, I can marry you right now!” These words, undoubtedly, shattered all her love for Julian over the past three years. Every moment of warmth and affection turned into a cruel joke! So, everything was fake. The marriage certificate was fake, the love was fake, and even the substitute marriage was fake! She was just an experiment, a tool for her sister to test Julian’s loyalty. She was just a pathetic pawn in her sister’s and her husband’s twisted love game. For three years, she had indeed never shared a room with Julian. Julian had told her he had a medical condition that prevented conjugal relations. From the moment she got married, she decided to love Julian and uphold her wedding vows, staying by his side no matter what. So, she was willing to keep his secret. For three years, her mother-in-law constantly pushed for children, and Hazel, to protect her husband’s dignity, had always claimed it was her own problem. But she never imagined that Julian wasn’t unable to be intimate; he just refused to be intimate *with her*! Julian and Seraphina emerged from the room. The moment Julian saw Hazel, an uncomfortable flicker crossed his face. But he immediately demanded, “Why are you back? Didn’t you say you were going out to buy groceries?” Her nails dug into her palms. Hazel took a deep breath and asked, “Why is Seraphina in my room?” Seraphina smiled sweetly, “What do you mean, sis? Your husband was just showing me your wedding room.” Julian, however, grabbed Hazel’s arm, pulling her aside and scolding, “Seraphina’s finally back. Is this your attitude as a sister? Go buy groceries, now!” Seraphina also came over, taking Hazel’s hand, putting on a show of sisterly affection. “You know what I like to eat, don’t you? Your cooking is the best. I love your dishes!” In the past, if Seraphina said she wanted something, Hazel would be thrilled to learn how to make it for her on the spot. But now, she just felt a suffocating tightness in her chest. “Julian, today is our wedding anniversary,” she insisted, unwilling to let it go. Julian’s brow furrowed deeper. “Wedding anniversaries happen every year. Seraphina’s been abroad for three years and this is her first time back. Can’t you tell what’s more important?” “Besides, she’s your sister. If it weren’t for her, would you even be a Miller? Would you have married me?” Every word Julian spoke felt like a slap across Hazel’s face. Seraphina, however, feigned understanding. “Since it’s your anniversary, if you don’t want to cook, that’s fine. I’ll treat you both to dinner out, how about it?” “Don’t spoil her. This is her duty. And didn’t you say you love her cooking?” Julian then ordered Hazel, “You *must* cook today. Go buy groceries now. And remember to get bamboo shoots; Seraphina loves them most!” That one sentence completely shattered any lingering hope she had. Right, Seraphina loved bamboo shoots the most. She knew, and her husband knew too. How ridiculous that for three years, Julian had never bothered to learn what *she* liked or disliked to eat. She’d thought he was just careless, but it turned out: a willing heart needs no teaching, an unwilling heart will never learn, no matter how much you try. Enough. If everything was fake, what was there left for her to hold onto? After leaving the house, she immediately called her professor. “Professor, I’ve decided to take part in the study abroad program.” The professor on the phone sounded both surprised and delighted. “Why the sudden change of heart? Didn’t you say you wanted to focus on family after marriage?” “There’s no marriage, and no family,” Hazel said firmly. In ten days, she would exit this love game.

During dinner, Julian constantly served Seraphina food. “Seraphina, eat more. Isn’t Hazel’s cooking wonderful?” “Julian, you’re so lucky! You married such a great wife like Hazel. I heard everyone saying you two are a match made in heaven!” She heavily emphasized “match made in heaven,” with a strong hint of jealousy. To appease her, Julian secretly held her hand under the table, gently stroking it. This scene, of course, didn’t escape Hazel’s eyes. She watched their interaction beneath the table with a blank face, but her heart ached so much she could barely breathe. Just two days ago, her husband had shown her affection. Now, he was giving that same affection to another woman. Oh, no, that wasn’t right. Julian never had any real affection for her; it was all a pretense. But it didn’t matter. In ten days, everything would be over. Just then, Seraphina suddenly let out a startled cry, “Ah!!” Then, before Hazel’s eyes, Seraphina broke out in a full-body rash, looking incredibly horrifying! Seraphina’s breathing became rapid, and she cried out in pain, “Hazel, what did you put in the soup? I’m having an allergic reaction!” No sooner had she spoken than Julian shot up, angrily stirring the soup with a ladle. In a moment, he fished out a dried scallop. “Hazel Miller, don’t you know Seraphina is allergic to seafood? Why would you put dried scallops in the soup?” Hazel’s eyes widened, astonished by Julian’s reaction. Julian also realized his reaction was a bit too much. His eyes darted nervously, and he quickly tried to save face. “I… I was just too angry for a moment. Don’t misunderstand. I just didn’t want Seraphina to have an incident in our home. Otherwise, you’d feel guilty, wouldn’t you?” Hazel didn’t expose his lie. Instead, she said, “I didn’t buy any seafood. I don’t know what happened.” “Hazel, what do you mean? Are you implying that I’m trying to frame you?” Seraphina wailed, “Julian, what’s wrong with Hazel? She’s suddenly like a different person. She never used to be like this.” “I didn’t—” “Smack!” Julian slapped her hard across the face, roaring with a fierce expression, “Hazel Miller, you are truly malicious! Seraphina is your sister! Without her, where would you be today? How could you treat her like this?!” Hazel was knocked into the corner of the table by the slap, and blood immediately streamed from her head. But Julian didn’t even glance at her. He scooped Seraphina into his arms and rushed out of the villa. Hazel covered her face, silently shedding tears. Even though she had already known about their relationship, her heart still ached to the point of suffocating. It didn’t matter. She was leaving this place soon anyway. That night, Hazel was packing her things in her room when Julian suddenly burst in, panting. He violently grabbed her hand. “You need to come to the hospital with me right now, to take care of Seraphina!” “But—” Julian saw her packing, narrowed his eyes, and asked, “What are you packing for? Where are you planning to go?” “…Nowhere.” Hazel was dragged to the hospital by him. Seraphina had already woken up but looked a bit weak. “Since you caused Seraphina’s allergic reaction and hospitalization, you’ll stay here and take care of her for me!” Julian ordered forcefully. Then he turned to Seraphina, his voice incredibly gentle. “Seraphina, I have some urgent company matters to attend to. Will you be a good girl and wait for me here?” Her husband’s tender side stabbed Hazel’s heart. Only after he left did she let out a self-mocking bitter laugh. “Seraphina Hayes, you’re not allergic to seafood at all, are you?” Seraphina instantly dropped her weak demeanor, smiling provocatively. “That’s right!” “And what I overheard about you two in the room, that was intentional too, wasn’t it?” “That’s right!” “Why?” Seraphina played with her hair, a malicious smile on her face. “I thought it would be fun. I wanted to see how far Julian would go for me.” A surge of anger rushed through Hazel. She clenched her fists tightly, trembling with rage. To treat her as a piece of their twisted love game, and for the other person to be so brazen about it! But then she remembered the Miller family’s kindness to the orphanage. Hazel swallowed her anger, thinking, *If they want to play, I’ll play this love game with them for the last ten days. Consider it repayment for the Millers’ generosity.* “Want to try?” Seraphina raised an eyebrow. The words had barely left her lips when she suddenly fell from the bed, crashing hard onto the floor. She cried out, “Hazel, I’m sorry! I wasn’t trying to seduce Julian. Please don’t hit me—” Hazel’s eyes widened. Before she could even process what was happening, a sharp, stinging slap landed hard on her face. Julian, who had somehow burst in unnoticed, stood there with a furious expression. “Hazel Miller, have I spoiled you too much, perhaps? First, you intentionally caused Seraphina’s allergy, and now you’re trying to hit her? How can you be so vicious?!” “I—” Before she could explain, Julian kicked her in the back of the knee, snarling, “Get down on your knees and reflect! You won’t stand up until Seraphina is discharged from the hospital!”

Her husband was like a completely different person. Hazel knelt on the floor, large tears silently falling. Faced with such baseless accusations, she had initially wanted to explain, but then she remembered their twisted relationship, and all the words she wanted to say got stuck in her throat. *Forget it.* Whatever she did, she knew it was all part of their game. Why bother with such pathetic efforts? Seraphina was discharged three days later, and Hazel had knelt for three days. Upon returning home, Julian perhaps remembered his role as a loving husband and tried to comfort Hazel. “Hazel, I punished you for your own good. Otherwise, how would Seraphina’s parents see you? Do you want them to withdraw their funding from the orphanage?” “Don’t worry, I’ll always be your husband. As long as you’re obedient, I’ll love you as always.” “Seraphina, after all, is your nominal sister. Can you just be a little more accommodating to her? I believe you can do it. My wife is a generous and kind person!” If she had heard these words before, Hazel would have been moved to tears. But now, hearing them, she only felt like he was treating her like an idiot. For the past two days since they returned, Julian had resumed his act of an affectionate, loving husband, though his performance was even more clumsy than before. Clumsy as it was, it only made Seraphina’s gaze toward Hazel even more venomous. Hazel continued to quietly pack her belongings in her room, admonishing herself not to let those two affect her emotions anymore. Yet, the thought of her three years of devotion being utterly wasted made tears stream down her face, her heart filled with bitterness. Perhaps only the people at the orphanage truly cared for her in this world? Thinking this, Hazel decided to visit the orphanage before she left. The thought of Director Evans and the children at the orphanage brought a flicker of joy to Hazel’s bitter heart. Director Evans had always been wonderful to her since she was little, like a mother. And the children were like her younger siblings. Though an orphan, she had never felt lonely at the orphanage; instead, she had been incredibly happy. The next morning, she quickly tidied her things, composed herself, and prepared to leave. As she went downstairs, she saw Seraphina and Julian playfully bickering. “Julian, look, does this dress look good on me?” “Beautiful, beautiful!” “What about this jacket?” “Beautiful! Everything looks beautiful on you!” Hazel noticed the sofa piled high with shopping bags, all filled with expensive luxury brands. Julian had bought Seraphina many clothes, shoes, and handbags. She couldn’t help but glance at her own outfit, all inexpensive items that cost just a few hundred. Julian had once said he disliked women covered head-to-toe in luxury brands, and that he loved her simple, unpretentious style. Now she saw it was just because he didn’t want to spend money on her. Where there was love, there was money. Julian truly didn’t love her at all. Just then, the two of them noticed Hazel about to walk out the door. Julian frowned. “Where are you going with all those bags?” Hazel answered truthfully, “I… I want to visit Director Evans and the children at the orphanage.” Seraphina feigned innocence, asking, “Oh, why do you need to take so many bags to the orphanage? Hazel, you’re not taking the things Julian bought to give to the orphanage, are you?” “No, it’s not! These are all things I bought myself, just some children’s clothes and shoes!” To prove she wasn’t taking anything from the house, Hazel immediately opened her bag. Inside were indeed children’s clothes and shoes. However, Seraphina then whined, “Julian, what does Hazel mean? What do you mean ‘she bought them herself’? Didn’t you give her the money? And now she’s using your money to buy so many things for the orphanage? How can she be so wasteful?” Julian’s eyes narrowed, and he demanded angrily, “Hazel Miller, have you been using my money to help the orphanage all this time? What do you take me for? An ATM?!” “No, no!” Hazel hurried to Julian, carrying the large and small bags, looking rather disheveled. She said sincerely, “Julian, I didn’t spend much. These clothes and shoes are all very cheap. The children at the orphanage aren’t picky; they can wear these inexpensive clothes!” She then weakly pointed to one of the luxury brand shopping bags on the sofa. “Just one bag of clothes from here would be enough to buy ten bags of children’s clothes and shoes…” Who knew Seraphina would interject again: “Children’s clothes and shoes may be cheap, but no matter how cheap, it’s still Julian’s money, isn’t it? Don’t you think it’s too much to just take his money and buy clothes for the orphanage?” Before, Hazel might have righteously declared she was Julian’s wife, so what if she used his money? But ever since she learned their marriage certificate was fake, she could no longer utter such words. She hung her head, looking embarrassed and humble, asking, “Julian, can I give these clothes and shoes to the orphanage?” Julian’s heart skipped a beat. When had he ever seen Hazel so humble? Perhaps out of reluctance, he was about to agree, but Seraphina interjected again: “Julian, rules are rules. Do you want to raise Hazel to be a wasteful Mrs. Thorne? Whose money just grows on trees?” She paused, then put on a show of magnanimity. “How about this? I’m not stopping you from giving these clothes and shoes to the orphanage. After all, I care about those children even more than you do. But you can’t just spend money without earning it, can you? You need to put in some labor!” “Labor? What kind of labor do I need to put in?” Seraphina pointed to the newly bought clothes. “You can wash all these clothes. But the fabric of these clothes is very delicate, so you’ll have to hand wash them!”

Tears welled up in Hazel’s eyes. She had only ever hand-washed Julian’s clothes. Seraphina’s demand now was clearly meant to humiliate her. “Julian, do you really want me to hand-wash Seraphina’s clothes?” Julian’s tone was cold. “What’s so bad about washing clothes? It’s just as Seraphina said, you just want something for nothing!” The phrase “something for nothing” felt like a harsh slap across Hazel’s face. For three years, to better care for Julian, she had quit her job and devoted herself to being a full-time wife. Though she didn’t work outside the home, she kept their house meticulously organized, ensuring Julian always had a meal ready when he returned from work and neatly ironed clothes to wear when he left. Yet, all this effort, in his eyes, was “getting something for nothing”? Hazel swallowed her heartache and tears, taking a deep breath. “Fine. I’ll earn this money with labor!” She resignedly took Seraphina’s clothes to hand-wash. The icy water, sharp and biting, covered her hands. Tears fell, one by one, into the water. Hazel was sobbing uncontrollably. Just then, she noticed a kingfisher brooch on Seraphina’s clothes, identical to the brooch Julian had given her for her birthday two years ago. Except Seraphina’s brooch was heavier, and the gems on it sparkled with a more brilliant fire. In an instant, a chill spread through her entire body, and her heart felt like it was being slowly flayed. So, everything Julian had given her was fake. His sincerity was fake, their marriage certificate was fake, and even a simple brooch was fake! After washing the clothes, she returned to her room and unhesitatingly threw her own brooch into the trash can. Along with the fake marriage certificate, she tore it into pieces and tossed it into the bin. Hazel handed the washed and dried clothes to Seraphina, saying to both of them coldly, “Can I take the children’s clothes now?” “Ah!!” Seraphina suddenly shrieked, pointing to a barely visible tiny black spot on the clothes. “My new clothes are ruined! How am I supposed to wear them now?!” Hazel quickly interjected, “But the stain isn’t obvious. It doesn’t affect them at all!” “Julian, this is a limited-edition dress you bought for me, and now it’s stained! How can I wear it?!” Julian indulged Seraphina completely, turning to Hazel. “Go wash these clothes again!” “But…” Hazel’s eyes welled with tears, and she gasped, choking out, “I’ve only ever washed *your* clothes before. When have I ever washed anyone else’s?” Perhaps that sentence jogged Julian’s memory, and a flicker of reluctance appeared. He tried to reason with Seraphina. “Seraphina, let’s just forget it. I’ll buy you another one.” Seraphina was furious, but her eyes quickly darted around, and she came up with a new idea. She smiled, looking perfectly understanding. “Hazel, I heard you’re going to a class reunion tomorrow, right? I don’t think you have any nice clothes. Why don’t I give you this dress, so you can make a splash at your reunion tomorrow?” Hazel was too upset to go to the orphanage and instead chose to rest at home for a day. This university reunion was set at a bar. Hazel went to the reunion wearing the expensive dress Seraphina had given her. She had never worn such a fine dress before. It was laughable, really. She’d never realized that Julian, who constantly claimed to love her, hadn’t even bought her a single decent piece of clothing or jewelry. And she, foolishly and happily, had been immersed in that ‘love.’ How pathetic, how pitiful, how ridiculous! At the reunion, everyone was clinking glasses and boasting to each other. Hazel huddled in a corner, silent, trying to make herself invisible. She didn’t want to talk to anyone; mainly, there was nothing to say. Yet, someone still noticed her. “Hey, isn’t that Hazel Miller? I heard you married into a wealthy family and became a socialite?” This single comment immediately drew whispers and gasps from the crowd. She and Julian had kept their marriage quiet, so hardly anyone knew she was married. “No way? Hazel Miller, weren’t you from the orphanage? How could you marry into a wealthy family? She couldn’t possibly be a mistress to some rich guy, could she?” “Hahahahaha! Look how expensive that dress she’s wearing is! How could *she* afford it? She definitely must be a rich man’s mistress!” “Julian Thorne is rich and handsome. Why would he ever look at a woman from Hazel Miller’s background? If you ask me, he and Seraphina, the Miller family’s eldest daughter, are the perfect match! So, Hazel Miller, are you really a mistress?” These malicious words filled Hazel with shame and indignation. She suppressed her emotions and calmly stated, “I’m not a mistress. I am Julian Thorne’s lawfully wedded wife.” However, no one believed her. Just then, someone sharp-eyed saw Julian and Seraphina entering the bar and shouted, “Mr. Thorne, Mr. Thorne, please come over! Hazel Miller here says she’s your wife. Is that true or not?!” Hazel had never so desperately hoped Julian would confirm their marriage. She asked expectantly, “Julian, tell them. Am I your wife?”

Julian didn’t answer. Instead, he fell silent, then chuckled. “What kind of joke is this?” These words plunged Hazel into an icy abyss. She closed her eyes in despair. She knew it. Why would Julian ever come to her rescue? She was merely a tool for Seraphina to test Julian’s loyalty… Although she had long anticipated such a situation, her heart still ached uncontrollably. Her body trembled slightly, and her eyes stung. The surrounding classmates, fueled by his denial, began to insult Hazel even more savagely. “I knew it! How could someone from Hazel Miller’s background be Mr. Thorne’s wife? If you ask me, Mr. Thorne and Miss Miller look like a real couple!” “Exactly! Mr. Thorne and Miss Miller are so perfect for each other—a match made in heaven, truly. Hazel Miller, you have no shame!” Hearing these words, Seraphina demurely covered her mouth and giggled, then exchanged a glance with Julian. They both smiled at each other, appearing incredibly harmonious and well-matched. Hazel’s blood ran cold. Looking at the man and woman before her, tears welled in her eyes. The mockery from the crowd continued. “Hazel Miller, you’re disgusting! To stoop so low and try to latch onto a rich man for money!” “Why choose to be a mistress when there are so many other things you could do? Are all people from orphanages as shameless as you?” “No way? Hazel Miller, you were so good at school back then. Not only do you shamelessly claim Mr. Thorne as your husband, but you’re secretly a mistress? Tsk tsk tsk, having a classmate like you is truly an embarrassment!” These words were like knives, piercing Hazel’s heart. Tears finally streamed down her face. Hazel, strong and resilient, said each word distinctly: “I am not a mistress! I am Julian Thorne’s wife!” But Julian turned his head away, still choosing to ignore her. Hazel closed her eyes again in despair. This was the husband she had been married to for three years, allowing others to falsely accuse her without a single reaction. Just then, a slice of cake suddenly splattered onto her face. The perpetrator smiled maliciously and said, “Calling someone else’s husband your own and being a mistress—how shameless can you be?” As soon as she finished speaking, the other classmates found their outlet, continuously throwing cake and food from the tables onto her body and face. Wine and drinks were all splashed on her. Some even went as far as to tear off her clothes. “How dare a mistress like you wear such expensive clothes?” “Strip off all her clothes! A mistress like Hazel Miller deserves to be punished by righteous people like us!” “Mistresses don’t deserve to wear expensive clothes!!” A class reunion instantly devolved into a bullying session. Hazel’s clothes and dress were quickly ripped to shreds, barely covering her. Her head was even shoved into a cake. She weakly cried out for help to Julian, “Jul… Julian, save… me…” She didn’t know if Julian felt a second of pity, only that he stared blankly at her, still doing nothing, as if watching an irrelevant spectacle. At that moment, Hazel’s heart died completely. Three years of a loving marriage, all turned to dust. Finally, Hazel was taken away by an ambulance. Before getting into the ambulance, she glanced at Julian. Her eyes no longer held any love, only cold resolve. Julian remained stunned, his fingers slightly curled, tips turning pale. He couldn’t explain what was wrong with him, only that he suddenly felt a pang of pity for Hazel. “Julian, what’s wrong?” “Nothing… nothing…” Seraphina’s eyes darkened, then filled with venom. *Hazel Miller, just you wait!* After Hazel Miller returned from the hospital, she was utterly dejected, completely ignoring Julian and Seraphina, not a word or a glance for either of them.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “298701”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #浪漫Romance #后宫Harem #重生Reborn

On my twenty-sixth birthday, I finally called my brother, Julian. “Julian, I’m getting a divorce.” My voice was as parched as a desert, choked with a weariness I could hear myself. Three seconds of silence stretched on the other end. Then Julian’s deep voice came through, “I told you years ago, Adrian’s like a cold marble statue; you could try forever and never warm him up.” I leaned back on the couch, rubbing my burning eyes, forcing a thin smile. “Yeah, I overestimated myself.” “Come to Switzerland.” Julian’s tone instantly lightened, like he was coaxing a child. “I’ve got plenty of charming men here, any one of them better than Adrian. If he can’t appreciate a lively, adorable sister like you, let him spend his life alone with his… whatever he’s into.” “Okay.” I mumbled, “Just let me sort things out here.” Hanging up, I took a deep breath and walked to the second floor. As I passed Adrian’s closed study, a low, muffled moan pierced my ears like a needle. The door wasn’t fully latched, leaving a narrow crack. A dim, yellowish light seeped from the gap. My hand trembled involuntarily, but I couldn’t resist peeking inside. Within the room, the scent of sandalwood incense wafted up, veiling everything like a thin mist. Adrian knelt before a small altar. His grey, specialized robe was half-open, and a string of carved wooden beads hung loosely around his wrist. But his body was trembling slightly. Beneath his lowered head was a lifelike wooden doll. The doll’s face was strikingly clear in the candlelight. Almond-shaped eyes, cherry-like lips, and a tear-mole beneath its left eye. It was unmistakably Seraphina—the “kindred spirit” who’d been inseparable from him since he was seven. I bit down hard on my lower lip until my mouth filled with the metallic taste of blood. This was the third time I’d stumbled upon this absurd scene. The first time, I just ran, stumbling down the stairs, tears streaming uncontrollably. The second time, I sat in the living room all night, staring blankly at the ceiling until dawn. But tonight, I felt only a dead calm in my heart, like charcoal embers extinguished by the wind. How ridiculous. I thought he was ascetic, cold as ice, but it turned out he just saved all his passion for someone else. I leaned against the wall, its coldness creeping up my fingertips. My mind, however, uncontrollably replayed the first time I saw Adrian. I was nineteen that year. My brother took me to an exclusive club in the city, saying he wanted to introduce me to his closest friend. That day, Adrian wore a dark grey jacket with subtle cloud patterns embroidered on the cuffs, and a string of carved wooden beads on his wrist. Among the room full of flashy, wealthy socialites, he sat alone in a corner, with only a pot of plain tea beside him. He lowered his head to pour tea, his long fingers grasping the white porcelain pot. The stream of water filled the cup, and the rising mist blurred his profile. Then he looked up and glanced my way. His eyes were as clear and cold as moonlight, deep enough to pull a person in. In that instant, my heart seemed to skip a beat. Seeing me stunned, my brother laughed and patted my head. “Don’t dream, little sister. You can like anyone, just not him.” “Why not?” I frowned and asked. “In our circle, who isn’t just playing at life?” He lit a cigarette, exhaling a puff of smoke. “Adrian’s the only one who’s been dedicated to his studies since he was a kid. Desires, affections—he won’t touch them.” I didn’t believe it. Growing up, there was nothing I wanted that I couldn’t get. I refused to believe there was a man in this world who could remain completely unmoved. So, I started pursuing him. I used every trick I could think of. When he was working on his spiritual carvings in his study, I deliberately stumbled, pretending to fall into his arms. He frowned, then effortlessly lifted me with one hand and set me aside, as if I were a package. I secretly added something to his tea—a mild aphrodisiac, I hoped—and served it to him, full of expectation. He took a sip, then gave me a faint glance. “Next time, less of that sweet floral tea. It’s too sweet.” The most outrageous time, I snuck into his study when he was on a retreat. Wearing nothing but his long jacket, I lay on his bed in what I thought was a seductive pose. He pushed the door open, and I even deliberately swung my leg, batting my eyelashes at him. He didn’t even look at me, just turned and walked away. The next day, a box of brand-new robes was delivered to me with a note: “For you. Stop taking mine.” Julian couldn’t stand it anymore. He pulled me aside and tried to reason with me. “Can’t you have some self-respect?” I retorted, neck stiff, “I’m saving him! A man this handsome being so detached is such a waste!” I chased him for five years. I tried everything, but I never even touched a hair on his head. I started to doubt if I truly had no charm. Until late on my birthday night, he suddenly called me. “Come downstairs.” I ran down in my pajamas. It was pouring rain outside. He stood under the eaves, half of his jacket soaked, a few fallen leaves clinging to his shoulder. “Let’s get married.” He said only those three words. No flowers, no ring, not even an expression. But I was ecstatic, like an idiot, and rushed to hug him. “Are you finally moved by me?” He didn’t hug me back, just let out a low “Mm.” Looking back now, that “Mm” was so dismissive. Three years into our marriage, we never once consummated it. No matter how sexy I dressed, or how alluring a pose I struck, he would always leave with a cold face at the last moment. Then he’d lock himself in his study, staying there all night. I used to think he was just too deeply committed to his spiritual practices, accustomed to solitude. Until three days ago, unable to bear it anymore, I secretly followed him into his study. Watching him lose control before that wooden doll, I finally understood—he wasn’t without desire; his desire just didn’t belong to me. He loved Seraphina. The girl who grew up with him, taken in by his family. His studies, his prayer beads, marrying me—it was all to suppress his feelings for her. In that moment, my heart turned utterly cold. Like falling into a winter lake, I lost even the strength to struggle. In his study, Adrian finally stopped. He leaned down and kissed the doll’s forehead, his voice hoarse, like he was murmuring a spell. “Seraphina, I miss you…” The sound was so soft. Yet it felt like a rusty knife, brutally plunged into my already tattered heart. Tears fell. I wiped my face and turned to go downstairs. I never looked back. The next morning, I woke up early. Adrian was already dressed and about to leave. He wore a black trench coat, his figure as tall and straight as a pine tree, the same carved wooden beads on his wrist. The distraught man from last night seemed to have never existed. As he was about to step out, I called out, “Wait!” “What is it?” He didn’t even lift his head, his voice as cold as ice shards. “Don’t bother me.” His words were like a thorn, shattering the last shred of my hope. In his eyes, I was still just an annoying nuisance he couldn’t shake. I suddenly laughed. “You’re overthinking. I just want the keys to your Bentley.” “Take another car. This one’s convenient for me.” I walked over and simply pulled the keys from his pocket. He finally looked at me, his tone still flat. “Going out today?” “Yep.” I nodded. “What for?” He asked one more question. I jingled the keys, smiling somewhat ironically. “To do something that will make you happy.” With that, I turned and walked toward the garage without looking back. Silently, I added a line in my head: To finally leave you.

I didn’t say that last line, “to finally leave you,” out loud. I just grabbed the Bentley keys and walked out the door. As the car started, I glanced back at the cold, imposing house. Adrian’s figure had already vanished from the doorway, like a wisp of wind—impossible to catch, impossible to keep. I drove straight to the Swiss Consulate. Applying for a permanent residency visa wasn’t complicated, especially for someone with my family’s backing. Years ago, the Claire family business had entirely moved abroad. My parents and brother, Julian, had already settled in Switzerland. Only I, like an idiot, stayed in this city for Adrian, refusing to leave. Now, I was finally leaving. I took the receipt from the staff member and nodded. “It should be processed in about a week,” she said, her voice as professional as a robot. I walked out of the consulate and stood on the street. The wind was a bit chilly. I pulled my coat tighter and looked down at the receipt in my hand. It was finally coming to an end. Adrian, the man I’d chased for five whole years, the seemingly detached figure I thought I could draw out of his solitary world, ultimately didn’t belong to me. I had given up so much for him. I accompanied him in drinking tea as bland as water, endured his ascetic lifestyle, and even completely shed my once flamboyant personality. All just to be a little closer to him, even just a tiny bit. But in the end, I couldn’t even touch the most private desires of his heart. I clutched the receipt and smiled. My heart ached as if I’d swallowed a sour lemon. “Forget it, Adrian. If you don’t want me, someone else will.” That night, I met a few friends at a club. Since being with Adrian, I hadn’t stepped foot in a place like this for three years. Tonight, I changed into a deep red bodycon dress, the hem short enough to just expose my upper thighs. My hair was loose, and my eyes held a long-lost wildness. I pushed open the VIP room door and walked in, heels clicking. “Claire, what’s gotten into you?” My friend, Maya, grabbed my arm, her eyes wide with surprise. “Didn’t you stop coming to places like this after you fell for that cold-faced recluse, always circling around him?” I picked up a cocktail from the table and took a sip. The liquor burned my throat, blurring my vision slightly. “Not anymore. Tonight, I’m going to have fun.” I walked into the dance floor. Lights flashed, and music engulfed me like a tide. I swayed my body to the rhythm, like a bird just released from its cage, free and a little reckless. Male club-goers crowded around me. I scanned them, a smile curving my lips. I reached out and touched one man’s chest. It felt hard as rock, eliciting a low chuckle from him. “Claire, are you crazy?” Maya rushed up, grabbing my arm. “You’re touching guys and dancing like this. Aren’t you afraid Adrian will see you and get mad?” “He’s not here,” I shrugged off her hand and continued to sway my hips. “No…” Maya paused, then leaned in close to my ear, whispering, “Who says he isn’t? He’s right there, in that booth behind us, and he’s been watching you for ages!” My fingers stiffened. Slowly, I raised my head, my gaze cutting through the crowd. Through the kaleidoscope of colored lights, I spotted him instantly. Adrian sat in the corner. In a black suit, he looked like a stark, out-of-place shadow. His fingers rested on the edge of a teacup, his eyes fixed on me with a heavy stare. I didn’t know how long he’d been watching. Just then, the music suddenly stopped. The VIP room became eerily quiet. I heard the man beside him laugh and say, “Adrian, Claire’s been dancing and touching other guys for ages. If that were my wife, I’d have flipped the table by now. How can you be so calm?” Adrian didn’t move. He just picked up his teacup and took a sip, his voice clear and cold. “She knows her limits. She won’t do anything reckless.” His words were like a venomous thorn. Plunging deeply into the softest part of my heart. “Knows her limits?” Did he think I loved him too much, couldn’t live without him, or simply didn’t care who I danced with? Perhaps it was both. I clenched my fists, my nails digging into my palms. The man continued to tease, “Tsk, tsk, your self-control is legendary. I really wonder what in this world could make you lose your cool…” Before he could finish, his voice suddenly rose. “Hey, Adrian, where are you going?” I instinctively looked up. Adrian had abruptly stood, his gaze locked firmly on the other side of the dance floor. In those eyes, usually as still as water, a flicker of jealous fire flashed. I followed his line of sight. Sure enough, Seraphina stood there. She wore a white, off-the-shoulder dress, looking like an ethereal fairy, exchanging phone numbers with a tall man. Adrian strode over. He grabbed her wrist. “Who allowed you to come to a place like this? Who said you could give your number to someone else?” Seraphina froze, her eyes reddening. “Why can’t I come? Why can’t I give my number to someone? You don’t care about me anymore, so what I do has nothing to do with you!” Adrian’s fingers tightened, knuckles turning white. His voice was low, like it was squeezed from his throat. “Who says I don’t care about you?” “You just don’t!” Seraphina’s voice was tearful. “You keep avoiding me, you won’t even see me! You used to be so good to me, how could you suddenly change?” His Adam’s apple bobbed. His voice was laced with suppressed emotion. “That’s because…” I stood nearby, my heart clutched by an unseen hand. I knew he couldn’t finish the sentence. What could he say? That he, Adrian, liked her, which was why he deliberately avoided her? That he couldn’t control himself whenever he saw her? That he loved her so much he didn’t touch me for three years of marriage, and instead released his desires in his study with her wooden doll? I tugged at my lips in self-mockery. I turned to leave, but then I heard Seraphina crying, “Adrian, can we go back to how it was before? I want the old you, the one who only had eyes for me!” Adrian’s voice was hoarse, like a sigh. “I’m married now. I can’t just revolve around you.” “So, if your wife wasn’t around, we could be like before?” Seraphina suddenly looked up, her eyes gleaming with a wild light. I had just picked up my bag, ready to go. She suddenly grabbed a bottle from the table and lunged at me. *Smash!* The sound of the bottle shattering against my forehead exploded in my ears like thunder. Warm blood streamed down my temple, sticky and blurring my vision. “Claire!” Maya screamed, rushing over. I stumbled back two steps. Before I could regain my footing, Seraphina raised a second bottle. “Die!” she snarled, bringing it down. This blow was even more vicious than the last. My vision went black. I collapsed to the ground. All I heard were chaotic screams.

Pain dragged me back from unconsciousness. The pungent smell of disinfectant needles pricked my brain, and the bright white light overhead made my eyes ache. I tried to raise my hand to shield them, but I tugged at the IV needle on my hand, sucking in a sharp breath from the pain. “You’re awake.” The nurse, changing my dressing, sighed with relief when she saw my eyes open. “Who has such a grudge against you? Two bottles to the head, forty-plus stitches.” I instinctively touched my bandaged forehead. My throat was as dry as sandpaper. “Where’s the person who brought me here?” “You mean your friend, Maya?” The nurse said, tidying her supply tray. “She stayed with you all night, but had an emergency at her company this morning. She told me to let you know she hired a caregiver for you.” I froze. So, not even Adrian brought me to the hospital. Where was he? I reached for my phone. My fingertips had barely touched the screen when a new post popped up. From Seraphina. [He’s still so easy to coax.] In the video, Seraphina held out her hand, her voice sweet and娇 as she pouted, “Look, I cut my pinky when I smashed the bottle.” The camera shifted. Adrian was half-crouching in front of her. His long fingers held a band-aid, gently applying it to her fingertip. Then, he lowered his head, pressing a suppressed kiss to her finger, whispering, “Now it won’t hurt.” I stared at the screen. The wound on my head felt as if it had been torn open again, someone stabbing it with a knife and then pouring salt in. My hand trembled with pain. I took a deep breath and dialed the police. “Hello, I’d like to report an incident.” That night, Adrian pushed open my hospital room door. He wore a black trench coat, his eyes as cold as carved ice, but a hint of anger simmered beneath. “You called the police? Said Seraphina intentionally harmed you?” “Yes.” I looked up at him, my voice calm. “Intentional assault. That’s enough to press charges, isn’t it?” He frowned, his voice deep. “She hit you in a fit of impulse, it was wrong of her. But I’ve already dealt with her, so let’s just drop it.” “Dealt with her?” I sneered. “How did you ‘deal with her’?” “She’s a bit wild. I told her not to leave the house for three days.” His tone was flat, as if it were an insignificant matter. I stared, then burst out laughing. I laughed so hard it tugged at my stitches, making tears well up in my eyes. “I got over forty stitches, and you grounded her for three days? Adrian, is that a punishment, or are you just protecting her, afraid I’d go after her?” His eyes darkened. “What are you talking about? Of course it’s a punishment.” “I’ve already spoken to the police. The case is withdrawn.” He paused, then continued, “You don’t need to call them again. No one in this city will take the case.” I gripped the bedsheets, my nails practically digging into my flesh. Words surged like a tide, but finally, only one question squeezed out: “Adrian, I chased you for five years, what do you even see me as?” “If you didn’t care about me, why did you marry me in the first place?” I stared at him, my eyes burning. His frown deepened. “Who says I don’t care about you?” He paused, his voice still cold. “Alright, let’s just drop this. I’ll stay here with you for a few days, and after you’re discharged, I’ll get you something. Stop making a fuss.” He spoke as if he were bestowing some great favor. I suddenly found it ridiculous. Yes, it was always me chasing after him, telling him I loved him, wanting to marry him, wanting to be close to him. When had he ever taken the initiative? Now he was willing to stay with me—how was that not a gift?

For the next few days, Adrian actually stayed in the hospital. He appeared promptly every day, bringing a bowl of bland rice porridge, helping me change my bandages, and even quietly holding my hand when I woke up in pain in the middle of the night. The old me would probably have been too happy to sleep. But now, my heart felt like an empty, desolate wasteland. It turned out, loving someone for five years, and letting go, could happen in an instant. On the day I was discharged, I walked to the parking lot, bag in hand. From a distance, I saw Seraphina sitting in Adrian’s car. She glanced at me, her eyes like daggers, her face clearly unhappy. Adrian frowned. “Seraphina, what did I tell you earlier?” Seraphina bit her lip, her eyes red. Reluctantly, she spoke, “Claire, I’m sorry… I was too impulsive that day.” “My brother barely paid any attention to me after he married you for years, he was completely devoted to you, so I just got angry…” She lowered her head, like a wronged child. “It won’t happen again.” Adrian turned to me, his tone calm. “Seraphina wants to stay at the house for a few days recently. You two should try to get along.” On the way home, they sat in the front. I leaned against the car window, staring at the rapidly receding streetscape outside. I didn’t say a word. But out of the corner of my eye, I could still see Adrian’s profile. He was usually as cold as stone, but his gaze kept drifting toward Seraphina. Seraphina looked down, scrolling on her phone, then suddenly laughed. “Adrian, look at this guy, he’s so handsome. Just added me on SnapChat.” Adrian’s hand on the steering wheel tightened abruptly. His voice was cold as ice. “Delete him.” “Why should I?” Seraphina pouted. “I’m in my twenties, can’t I make friends?” “Delete him.” His tone was hard, like a command. Seraphina huffed, but still obediently deleted the contact. She mumbled under her breath, “He’s stricter than my dad…” Adrian didn’t say anything. But I saw his jawline tighten. He was jealous. Back home, I didn’t even eat. I went straight to my room. From downstairs, I could hear the clatter of dishes, Seraphina’s giggling, and the syrupy background music from the TV. It was a liveliness that had never existed in the three years Adrian and I were married. I buried myself under the covers. My heart ached as if it were steeped in sour plum soup. I don’t know how much time passed. The sounds outside gradually faded. I was terribly thirsty, so I got up to pour myself some water. As I pushed open the door, I froze. Moonlight streamed in through the window, making the living room bright. Adrian was half-crouching by the sofa, quietly watching Seraphina, who was asleep. He was usually as aloof as a hermit. But at this moment, his eyes were full of soft light, as if he were looking at his most precious treasure. Seraphina suddenly stirred. Half-asleep, she reached out and hooked her arms around his neck, her voice soft as marshmallow. “Adrian, don’t leave me… only you care about me…” She tugged him unconsciously. His face was pulled down. Their lips brushed together. Adrian’s pupils contracted sharply. His breathing became ragged, like it was scattered by the wind. The next second, as if he could hold out no longer, he leaned down and kissed her fiercely.

Moonlight poured into the living room like water. I stood behind the door, peeking through the half-open crack, watching Adrian lean down and kiss Seraphina. His breath was ragged, as if scattered by a hurricane, and his fingers tightly gripped her waist, as if he wanted to unleash all the pent-up emotions of the past five years. “Seraphina…” He murmured her name, his voice lingering in a way I’d never heard before. I don’t know how long they kissed. Until Adrian seemed to suddenly regain his senses, his fingertips gently wiping away the dampness from her lips. He re-adjusted his specialized robe, returning to the cold, unapproachable recluse he usually was. I clenched my fists, my nails digging deep into my palms. The pain barely kept me from fainting. I spun around abruptly, silently closing the door, and buried myself under the covers. Outside, the footsteps gradually faded. I knew he had gone back to his study. I closed my eyes. My mind, however, was flooded with images of all the times I had tried to seduce him over the years. I once wore a nightgown as thin as gauze, pretending to trip and fall while he was working on his symbols, only for him to catch me with his palm cushioned by a piece of paper. I deliberately brought him a towel when he was showering, but he opened the door only after wrapping himself completely. I feigned drunkenness and threw myself onto him, but he merely frowned and pushed me away with a single finger. He had never wavered. I thought he was truly without desires. But it turned out, if it was Seraphina, even a single glance could make him lose all self-control. Tears streamed down my face. I fiercely wiped them away. It’s okay. I, Claire Thorne, am not unwanted. From now on, he could have his kindred spirit, and I would live my own life. The next morning, when I went downstairs, Adrian and Seraphina were already eating breakfast. Seraphina touched her lips and grumbled, “Adrian, do you guys have bugs in this house? My lips are all swollen when I woke up.” Adrian’s hand paused as he was serving food. His voice was deep. “I’ll have the house staff get you some cream for it later.” I picked up the gift box on the table. Opening it, I saw a priceless jade pendant. I tugged at the corner of my mouth, my tone a bit sarcastic. “You’re quite generous with your efforts.” Seraphina leaned over to peek, then said sourly, “Adrian, you’re usually this good to Claire? I thought you were just focused on your studies all the time, not even knowing how to spoil someone.” I looked up at Adrian. His eyes slightly narrowed. He had no intention of explaining that the jade pendant was actually compensation for Seraphina hitting my head. Normally, he wouldn’t care what I liked, let alone buy me gifts. He simply gave a faint “Mm” and stood up, saying, “I have something to do at my study. I’m leaving now.” Before he left, he glanced at Seraphina, his voice deepening. “Stay put at home. You can go anywhere in the villa, just don’t go into my study.” “Why not?” Seraphina tilted her head and asked. “There are a lot of things in there. Don’t mess them up,” he casually brushed her off. But I knew. His study hid his most unspeakable secrets. I finished breakfast and went straight back to my room. I didn’t want to spend another second with Seraphina. But when I woke up from my nap and touched my hair, I found my long hair had been cut messily, like a cat had clawed it. I rushed out. Seraphina sat on the sofa, clutching strands of my hair, smiling as she braided something. I instantly understood. “You cut my hair?” My voice trembled like a leaf in the wind. She looked up, smiling defiantly. “Yeah, our school assignment is due, and I’m making a hair accessory.” She twirled the strands of hair in her hand. “Claire’s hair is so beautiful, so black and soft.” I felt a chill run through me. Unable to suppress my anger any longer, I lunged forward and slapped her hard across the face. *Smack!*

The sharp sound echoed through the living room. Seraphina clutched her face, her eyes instantly darkening. “You dare hit me? My brother has pampered me since I was a child, he’s never even touched me. Who do you think you are?” She shrieked, “Someone! Hold her down!” The bodyguards by the door hesitated, then walked in. They glanced at me, then at Seraphina. Seraphina narrowed her eyes. “You work for Adrian. Think about it, who’s more important to him?” The bodyguards were silent for a second. Then they stepped forward and tightly grabbed my arms. I laughed. Laughed until tears streamed down my face. It turned out everyone knew how much Adrian cared about Seraphina. Only I, like an idiot, took five years to realize this colossal joke. Before I could react, Seraphina had already raised her hand. *Smack!* The first slap landed. My face burned with pain. Then came the second, the third… I struggled desperately, my throat hoarse from shouting. “Seraphina, aren’t you afraid Adrian will deal with you when he gets back?” She laughed arrogantly. “Since childhood, he’s cleaned up every mess I’ve made, including beating up his own wife.” She leaned in close to my ear, whispering, “Claire Thorne, remember this: I’m the treasure in his heart.” With that, she landed one slap after another. I struggled like a trapped wild animal, but the bodyguards’ hands were like iron chains. *Smack! Smack! Smack!* Slaps rained down on my face. My mind went blank from the pain, my face felt as if it were on fire. Tears blurred my vision. I could still see Seraphina’s distorted, triumphant face. “How many times did I hit her?” she stopped to ask a bodyguard. “Eighty-eight times,” the bodyguard replied in a low voice. “Then make it a lucky number,” she said, her smile sickeningly sweet. The final slap landed. A metallic taste filled my mouth. My vision went black, and I passed out. In a daze, I heard the door being pushed open. Someone shouted sharply, “What are you doing?!” … When I opened my eyes again, I was in bed. Adrian sat beside me, his expression as calm as if nothing had happened. “I know about today’s incident,” he said, his voice still that cold, indifferent tone. My throat was so dry it felt like it would crack. I asked hoarsely, “And then what?” “Seraphina has been spoiled since childhood,” he said flatly. “I’ve already punished her. Don’t take it to heart.” I stared at him. “How did you punish her?” He paused. He pulled a small lock of hair from his pocket. “She cut your hair, so now she’s cut her own to compensate you.” I froze. Then I burst out laughing, tears streaming down my face. “I got forty stitches, and you ground her for three days? She cut my hair, so you made her cut her own? She slapped me eighty-eight times—did you just give her one back?” His voice remained level. “Her hand swelled from hitting you. That counts as punishment.” I couldn’t stop laughing. My heart felt absurd, like a farcical play. “Adrian, how on earth did I ever fall for you?” He was about to speak. I suddenly grabbed the teacup from the bedside table and smashed it on the floor. “Get out!” I screamed, eyes red. He stood up. His tone was still unhurried. “I know you’re very upset. The doctor said you need to rest properly. Just calm down.” With that, he turned and left. The moment the door closed, I couldn’t hold it in anymore and cried like an idiot.

For the next few days, Adrian surprisingly didn’t go to his study. He stayed at home, and as if sensing my low mood, he even made Seraphina apologize to me, a rare occurrence. Seraphina stood before me. She lowered her head, her apology as perfunctory as if she were reciting lines. “Claire, I’m sorry. I was too impulsive that day.” I gave her a cold glance. Too lazy to engage, I turned and went back to my room. *Bang!* I slammed the door shut. Outside the door, Seraphina flinched. She threw herself into Adrian’s arms, her voice trembling like grass in the wind. “Adrian, she won’t hit me, will she?” Adrian patted her back. His voice was deep, like he was comforting a child. “With me here, no one can touch you.” No sooner had he spoken than a commotion started in my room. It sounded like things were being rummaged through and overturned. Adrian frowned. He raised his hand, intending to knock, but the door was suddenly yanked open by me. I emerged carrying a large box, not even glancing at him, and headed straight for the living room’s trash bin. *Whump!* Everything went in. Adrian’s eyes tightened. The box contained things I’d collected over the years. His casually written symbols, his used teacup, and the only item he’d ever given me—a string of carved wooden beads. I’d practically begged him for those. Now, I threw them all away, like a pile of junk. “What are you doing?” he asked, his voice as cold as frost. I clapped my hands, dusting them off. “Nothing. I don’t want them anymore,” I said flatly. Your things, your presence, I, Claire Thorne, want none of it. With that, I turned and walked away. I didn’t look back. Seraphina watched the scene, a flicker of triumph in her eyes. She deliberately drew out her words. “Adrian, aren’t you going to comfort Claire?” Adrian was silent for a long moment before finally speaking. “No need. She’ll come around. Soon enough, she’ll pick those things back up.” Just like the past five years, I had always clung to him, always loved him. Through the wall, I heard his words from my room. I almost laughed out loud. Wrong, Adrian. You’re wrong this time. That evening, he said he wanted to take Seraphina and me to a charity gala. I didn’t want to go. But he said flatly, “Your friend Maya will be there too. You’ve been cooped up for so long, don’t you want to get some fresh air?” I was silent for a while. Finally, I changed my clothes. Recent events had left me suffocated. I needed to find someone to have a few drinks with. On the way there, I didn’t say a word to either of them. I closed my eyes and leaned back in the backseat, pretending to be asleep. Halfway there, there was a sudden loud crash— *Bang!* Blinding headlights rushed at us. I only had time to see a runaway car heading straight for us. The next second, the world turned upside down. When I woke again, my nose was full of the smell of rust. I struggled to open my eyes and found Seraphina and me tied to two chairs. Our hands were bound behind our backs, and bombs were strapped to our chests. I remembered. Before I blacked out, the people who got out of the car that hit us were the youngest son of the Stone family, Adrian’s corporate rivals. He had kidnapped us. Was he retaliating against Adrian? Seraphina next to me was crying hysterically. Her voice was shrill like a knife. “Help! Is anyone there?! I don’t want to die!” The bomb’s countdown was down to just a few minutes. I forced myself to calm down, my fingers fumbling for the wire. But her wailing was giving me a headache. I spoke coldly, “Why are you crying? If you don’t want to die, hurry up and defuse your own.” She cried even harder. “Don’t yell at me! I don’t know how! Adrian, where are you?! I’m so scared…” Before she could finish, the warehouse door was violently kicked open. Adrian burst in.

His usually immaculate black robes were covered in dust. Blood seeped from his forehead, and his breathing was ragged, as if he’d run dozens of miles. His gaze swept over us, then sharply contracted. It was the first time I’d seen him so disheveled. This man, as cold and composed as a stone statue, actually had moments when he couldn’t catch his breath. He had clearly rushed here himself after the car crash, realizing we were missing, and sending others to search. The bomb had only one minute left. Time enough to save only one. He didn’t hesitate for a second, rushing straight to Seraphina. He crouched down, his fingers rapidly disarming the bomb on her chest. Without lifting his head, he said, “Claire Thorne, I’ll get her out, then I’ll be right back for you.” I smiled. But strangely, I didn’t feel any pain at all. Perhaps when love dies, the heart stops hurting too. He finished disarming Seraphina’s bomb. Only twenty seconds remained on the countdown. Seraphina clutched his arm tightly, trembling so hard she could barely speak. “Adrian! Go! It’s going to explode!” But Adrian pushed her away. He urged her to run first, then turned to disarm mine. I grabbed his hand. And pushed him away forcefully, my voice as calm as if I were talking about someone else’s business. “Adrian, take her and go. From today on, I don’t need you. My life or death has nothing to do with you. I, Claire Thorne, am not unwanted. If you don’t care for me, plenty of others will.” He froze. His eyes looked frozen. Seraphina on the side was crying hysterically. “Adrian! I’m scared! If you don’t leave, I won’t either!” Time ticked by, second by second. If we didn’t leave now, all three of us would die here. At the last moment, he still picked up Seraphina and ran out. I closed my eyes. My fingers fumbled at the bomb. I had taken a demolition class in college and vaguely remembered some things. “Click.” At the last second, I disarmed the wire. But the explosion still came. The heat blast threw me backward. Before losing consciousness, I thought I saw Adrian’s figure turning back. When I woke up, I was in the hospital. My arm ached as if it were being drilled by needles. Adrian sat by the bed. Seeing my eyes open, he immediately pressed me down. “Don’t move. You just had skin grafted for Seraphina.” “…What did you say?” My mind went blank, thinking I’d misheard. He paused. His voice was tinged with rare guilt. “Seraphina’s arm was burned in the blast. She was afraid of scarring, and your skin tone is the most similar to hers, so a piece of your skin was used for her.” I stared at him, utterly disbelieving. “Adrian, did you even ask me?” “I’ll compensate you,” he said, his tone soothing. “Didn’t you always want to go out with me? After you’re discharged…” “Who wants your compensation!” I violently pulled out the needle, blood streaming down the back of my hand. “You can’t treat someone like this!” He froze, as if he hadn’t expected me to react this way. “Seraphina is your precious darling, and I’m just dirt, right?” My eyes were red, my voice trembling. “You just take advantage of the fact that I like you… you just take advantage…” I couldn’t finish. My throat felt clogged. His chest felt heavy. He suddenly remembered what I’d said in the warehouse— [If you don’t care for me, plenty of others will.] He was about to speak. His phone rang. Chapter 7 His assistant’s hurried voice came through: “Mr. Adrian, the jade jewelry set Ms. Seraphina has always wanted is being auctioned tonight in London. Will you be attending…?” He gave a soft “Mm.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “298700”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #浪漫Romance #后宫Harem #重生Reborn

After waking up from the car crash, Adrian clutched my hand. The very first thing he did was shove a statement of forgiveness for his mistress in my face. He snarled at me, “Vivian just barely grazed you. Why are you being so vindictive?” I refused, absolutely refusing to sign, and nearly threw myself out the window to make my stand. Until the hospital room door swung open, and the woman who’d hit me finally looked up— I froze for two seconds, then suddenly loosened my grip on the window ledge. “Give me the statement. I’ll sign it.” “She nearly killed you! Why are you signing it so easily?!” Adrian demanded, utterly baffled. My voice was calm. “Because she’s beautiful.” “Just because of *that*?!” Of course not. Because she was the little girl who once curled in my arms, calling me “Mommy.” …………………… “…Ellie? Eleanor? You’re awake? Oh my God, thank goodness! Doctor! Doctor!” I blinked my blurry eyes open, a stranger’s face wavering above me. His voice was urgent, his expression a performance of overwhelming relief. His grip on my hand was so tight, his nails almost dug into my skin. Who was this man? Hadn’t I… hadn’t I been dead for years? “It’s okay, it’s okay, you scared me to death. As long as you’re awake, that’s all that matters. Good girl, just sign this first, and we can go home, okay?” The paper in his hand fluttered before my eyes, the bold black letters at the top stabbing into my still-hazy vision: “Statement of Forgiveness.” Memories, not my own but the original owner’s, came crashing down like a tidal wave. The screech of a massive brake still roared in my ears. “…Where’s the person who hit me?” Adrian’s expression stiffened for a fraction of a second, then softened, his tone patronizing, as if talking down to a child. “I told you, it was an accident. Just an accident.” “The doctor said it’s a miracle I even woke up! The person who hit me almost killed me! And you just expect me to… forgive them?!” “The person who hit you didn’t mean to! She’s terrified, too, can’t eat, can’t sleep, she’s lost so much weight!” “I’m your boyfriend! If I tell you to sign it, you *will* sign it! Our family isn’t some charity case that can’t afford the medical bills!” “This is a crime!” My voice trembled. “I don’t care who the hell you think you are, I’d rather jump out this window than sign that thing!” I tore the IV needle from my hand like a madwoman, scrambling to throw myself towards the window. At that moment, the hospital room door was violently flung open. “Ms. Vance! That’s enough! Take it out on me if you want! Stop pressuring Mr. Blackwood!” “It was just a minor accident! You’re fine now, aren’t you?!” “What’s with this suicide act? Who are you performing for? Trying to use your death to make Mr. Blackwood remember you forever, is that it?!” I stared at her, for a long, long time. Then, slowly, I climbed back from the window ledge. “Give me the statement.” “Rip it up! I can print hundreds more! I won’t give up until you sign!” I took the pen and scrawled “Eleanor Vance” with a decisive flourish. Vivian and Adrian both froze, mouths agape, utterly speechless. “She nearly killed you… and you actually signed it like that?” Adrian asked, disbelief etched on his face. Vivian stared at me, her gaze piercing. “Signing it so quickly, what game are you playing?!” I met her eyes calmly, and said softly, “Because you’re beautiful.” “Just because of *that*?” Adrian scoffed. “I bet you saw I had a woman as gorgeous as Vivian, and realized how in-demand I am!” Adrian snatched the signed statement from my hand. “See? Wouldn’t it have been easier to just do this from the start? Why make things awkward for everyone?” Over the next few days, I was as cooperative as any patient could be. Taking my medicine on time, attending all check-ups, resting quietly. Adrian’s visits grew less frequent, his stays shorter. Each time he came, the conversation would inevitably drift to Vivian. “Vivian is incredibly capable. That tricky project we had last month? She swooped in and closed the deal. The client couldn’t stop praising her.” Adrian sat with one leg crossed over the other, practically spitting as he vividly described Vivian’s cutthroat tactics in the business world. “She’d once had a rival’s teeth pulled and tossed him into the ocean to secure a deal, for which the client had nothing but admiration.” *For people and things she cared about, she would stop at nothing. Like, to get Adrian, she could disregard the law and choose to run me over.* “Vivian’s beautiful, makes me look good when I take her out, and she helps me run the company. Now, the company practically grinds to a halt without her!” “And you? What do you have, besides a family that gives you money to spend? When it comes to empathy, to capability, you’re not even fit to tie Vivian’s shoes.” “From now on, just settle down. It’s not out of the question for two women to share one man, especially since your family still has some pull.” He said it like he was bestowing a great gift. “We’ll get married once you’re out of the hospital. As for the wedding, Vivian and I will handle that.” My fingers tightened around the spoon I was holding, a surge of pure rage shooting to my head. I slammed the bowl of porridge directly into his face. “Eleanor Vance! Are you out of your mind?! Vivian is a thousand times better than you, she deserves the most magnificent wedding!” Adrian’s luck held out. His phone screen lit up, preventing me from doing more damage. It was a SnapChat message from Vivian. Vivian: [Image] Ellie, Mr. Blackwood wants me to try this one. He says it looks best on me. What do you think? The image was Vera Wang’s latest wedding dress, indeed the dream of countless women. I remembered her at seven, twirling in a pink princess dress, asking me, “Do I look pretty?” My fingertips flew across the screen. I replied: *It’s truly beautiful.* Adrian frantically wiped the porridge from his face, his mouth still going. “Eleanor Vance, nothing you do will change anything! Vivian and I are having our wedding, mark my words!” A few more days passed, and I was mostly recovered. Before I was even discharged, Adrian called. His tone was his usual commanding, dismissive one. I was about to snap back, but then he said, “Vivian had an allergic reaction to seafood and is in the hospital. I have a meeting I can’t miss, so you go take care of her.” “Stay with her 24/7. Make sure she’s perfectly fine. If anything goes wrong, I’m holding you responsible!” “Okay.” “Finally learning some manners, huh? Looks like this car accident wasn’t completely useless. At least it taught you your place and how to appease me.” I hung up immediately. Spending another second talking to that lunatic was a waste of my hard-won second chance at life. Without even changing out of my hospital gown, I headed straight to Vivian’s VIP room. “What are you doing here?!” Vivian instinctively covered her face, which was covered in red hives. “Mr. Blackwood and I are getting married in a month. I’ll be completely fine by then, so don’t even *think* about trying to steal my place as the bride!” I said calmly, “Adrian said you had an allergic reaction and asked me to check on you. What did the doctor say? Is it serious? Are you still uncomfortable anywhere?” Vivian looked at me as if I were an alien. “It’s a little itchy, but I’ve already had medicine. You don’t need to worry about it!” I nodded, then turned to the bathroom to get a basin of warm water. “The doctor said cold compresses can help relieve the itching. Don’t scratch, you don’t want to scar.” Vivian stood rigidly, unmoving. Adrian sent a video call request midway through, probably checking up on us. “You don’t have to worry, Vivian’s much better. I’ll take good care of her.” On the other end of the call, Adrian patronizingly lectured me a few more times about “being diligent” and “not slacking off” before gracing us with a hang-up. “Tha…thank you…” “It’s nothing.” I smiled, tucking her blanket in. “You rest. I’ll be right here. Call me if you need anything.” “Eleanor, what exactly are you planning?” Vivian’s eyes were full of suspicion. “When you were sick, I called Adrian to come stay with me. When I was in a car accident, he forced me to sign a statement of forgiveness for you.” “Even then, I wasn’t willing to break up with him. I clung to him, we fought tooth and nail.” “You knew about my existence all along. You loved him so much, why are you being so kind to the woman who stole your man?!” I said calmly, “What exactly is so great about this man? Is he really worth hurting an innocent person to get?” Vivian sneered. “Eleanor Vance, finally showing your true colors, are you? You know Mr. Blackwood won’t leave me, so you’re trying to work on me instead?” Watching her stand with her hands on her hips, cheeks puffed out, putting on an act, I silently sat by the hospital bed, cherishing her for a long moment. Unconsciously, I raised my hand and gently pinched her cheek. “You… what are you doing!” She seemed like a punctured balloon, her arrogant posture instantly deflating. When she was fifteen, she had stood between me and that man, scared but still fierce, protecting me. “Let’s just say I like your face.” I said calmly, a slight smile curving the corners of my eyes. Vivian didn’t speak again, closing her eyes, but her long eyelashes trembled continuously. A few days later, Adrian came to my apartment. “That black card of yours has a high limit, give it to me.” I was pouring myself a glass of water, and my movement paused at his words. He wanted money from me, and with such arrogance? I tightened my grip on the glass. “Adrian Blackwood, are you addicted to being a kept man?” “Don’t waste my time! Just give it to me! Your money is my money, isn’t it? Why are you suddenly drawing such clear lines with me?” “Vivian has endured so much for me. What’s wrong with her spending a little of your money? Come on, hurry up, don’t drag your feet!” The anger on my face almost instantly vanished at the mention of ‘Vivian,’ replaced by a compliant expression as I handed over the black card. “That’s better. Glad you know your place!” Once he had the black card, Adrian’s spending statements started flooding my phone like snowflakes. Meanwhile, Vivian’s attitude towards me subtly shifted. She started calling me “Ms. Vance,” and the sharp edges and hostility in her voice noticeably softened. She would pour me a glass of water when I came to “visit” her, and occasionally even chat about inconsequential things. Until one day, she invited me out for afternoon tea. “Ms. Vance,” her voice was soft, laced with hesitation, but her eyes were earnest, “This is for you.” I paused, then took the bag and opened it. Inside was a silk blouse, simple yet elegant, in my favorite dusty blue, and exactly my size. Excellent taste, clearly chosen with care. “I noticed you really like this color and fabric. Consider it a thank you for taking care of me recently.” “Thank you.” My voice sounded a little hoarse. “I love it.” “The money Adrian splurged on your black card, I’ve already transferred it back to another account you don’t often use. I’ll send you the statement details later.” I looked up at her, the question in my heart yearning to escape. “You don’t love that man at all, do you?” Vivian stared at me, stunned. “What…” “If you don’t love him, why are you with him?” She was silent for a long time, then finally, as if she’d made up her mind, said, “Ms. Vance, I’m not who you think I am.” “I graduated from the top university with a degree in finance, both my bachelor’s and master’s. If it weren’t for my family…” “My father owes millions in gambling debts, my mother is critically ill and needs money for surgery, and my younger siblings still need to go to school. I wouldn’t have come to this.” My heart clenched painfully. “Adrian values my youth and beauty to show off and to help him secure projects and manage the company. I’m using his money to solve my urgent financial problems.” “This past year, I’ve pretty much gotten my hands on all the company’s major projects and key client resources.” I felt myself transported back to that scorching, death-filled summer, her young face pressed against my hospital bed, holding my hand— “I got my money back from that last part-time job! I threatened the boss that I’d call the police, and he was so scared of me! I got all the money I was owed!” “Aren’t I amazing? If I earn a little more, I can cure your illness really soon!” “He’s nothing but an empty shell now, dreaming big after being completely drained.” I looked at the girl before me, stripped of all pretense. She was never a clinging vine needing to climb for support. She was calmer, smarter, but… also carried deeper wounds… “Why are you telling me this?” I heard myself ask, my voice trembling with suppressed emotion and a catch in my throat. She paused, her gaze falling on the dusty blue blouse by my hand, her eyes softening slightly. “So, why are you being so good to me?” I met her deep gaze, and after a long moment, said, “Because you’re beautiful.” “Just because of *that*?” I nodded calmly. She was a proud child, and I didn’t think she was ready to know who I was. Nor did I want the *real* me to know she had become an unprincipled man’s mistress. Her confusion hadn’t dissipated, but she continued, “As for why I told you all that—” “I think I’ve come to see you as the most important person in my life. Besides my mom, no one has ever been this kind to me.” “The wedding in a week.” She paused. “I’m going to turn it into a stage for Adrian Blackwood’s public downfall.” —截断点— The first day I wore the blouse, Adrian noticed it. “What are you wearing?” “A blouse.” “No kidding! I’m asking where you got it! That brand, that style—isn’t that the one Vivian picked out a few days ago? How did *you* end up wearing it?”

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After six years of a hidden marriage, Liam lifted our daughter, Lily, high for the very first time tonight. Five-year-old Lily burst into happy laughter. She waved at me, “Mommy, Uncle is making me fly!” A pang of sorrow twisted my heart, but I forced a strained smile as I watched them, father and daughter. Liam was drunk tonight; he didn’t seem to know what he was doing. He didn’t love Lily, and he didn’t love me. His happiness tonight stemmed purely from the return of Serena, the woman he deeply loved. Six years ago, Liam and Serena were madly in love when Serena suddenly left. Liam, on his way to chase after her, had an accident and lost the use of his legs. I was Liam’s personal assistant, staying by his side day and night, enduring his bad temper, encouraging him, and helping him with his physical therapy. The day he finally stood up again, he drank too much in celebration. That night, he mistook me for Serena and, in his drunken state, took me again and again. That’s how I got pregnant. He even agreed to marry me. But I later learned that not only did Liam not love me, but he hadn’t married me out of a sense of responsibility either. He married me solely because he saw news of Serena publicly announcing her new relationship abroad. After we were married, he was like a ghost, completely absent from Lily’s and my life. The day Lily was born, he specifically flew out of town for a business trip. When Lily was learning to speak, he’d stiffen, refusing to let her call him ‘Dad’. When Lily lost control of her skateboard and called out “Dad” once, he just stood there, cold as ice, watching her fall, letting her hit her head hard. …… Yet, the drunken Liam before me now looked at Lily with eyes full of paternal affection. After holding our daughter, he gently placed Lily on the sofa, smiling warmly at her. “I’ll be a good dad.” “Okay, Lily believes in Daddy.” He didn’t seem to hear. The intense smile remained on his face as he turned and murmured a name. “Finn.” He would be a good dad to Finn. My heart turned to ice. Finn – Serena’s son. But Lily had only heard the first sentence. She happily ran to me. “Mommy, Daddy likes me, right? I can call him Daddy now, can’t I?” “He held me, and he said he’d be a good dad.” Her eyes were filled with desperate longing for a positive answer. She truly longed to be like other kids, to cuddle into Liam’s arms, call him Daddy, and playfully complain to him. A bitter ache tightened in my chest. I knelt and pulled her into my embrace, tears blurring my vision. I didn’t want to shatter her hope. I avoided answering her question directly. I didn’t want Lily to know that this fleeting moment of happiness was only granted because of another woman and her son. “Lily, would you be willing to leave this place with Mommy?” I choked back tears. Lily paused, confused. “Mommy, why are we leaving?” The smile froze on Lily’s face, a look of bewilderment. Tears instantly welled up. “We’re a family with Daddy! I want to be with Daddy.” I raised a hand to wipe away her tears, my voice cracking. “Because… Uncle’s true love has returned, and we need to go.” “But… Daddy likes me…” Lily’s voice grew softer and softer. Perhaps deep down, she already knew Liam didn’t love her. “Mommy, can we wait until after my birthday? Let’s give Uncle a few more chances, okay? Maybe he’ll truly like us then. If Daddy is willing to stay with us, then we won’t leave, right?” I nodded, tears streaming down my face. “Alright. You decide how many more chances.” Just a few more chances then. If he still disappointed us, we would leave his world forever. “Yay! Thank you, Mommy.” “Time for bed.” After tucking Lily into bed, I returned to my own room. My marriage with Liam was a sham, existing only in name. We didn’t even bother to maintain appearances. The next morning, Liam woke up and came downstairs. Lily was eating breakfast. When she saw him, she happily put down her toast and ran toward him. “Daddy, you’re awake!” Liam’s face instantly darkened. He asked in a cold voice, “What did you call me?” Lily’s outstretched arms froze in mid-air. She was scared by his expression. “Uncle…” Lily quickly corrected herself, dropping her hands in dismay. “I’m sorry, Uncle.” I forcefully suppressed the bitterness in my heart. I walked over and picked her up. “Time to eat. You’ll be late for school.” I knew Liam’s attitude toward us wouldn’t change. His lapse yesterday was just because Serena was back, and he was too happy and had too much to drink. Liam’s demeanor softened slightly. He walked to the dining room, took a sip of coffee, and left without a word. “Goodbye, Uncle,” Lily called out to his retreating back, as she always did. Still no response. On the way to school, Lily kept her head down, silent. As we neared the school, she looked up at me. “Mommy, does that count as one chance? Let’s give Uncle three more chances!” Tears welled in Lily’s eyes. My heart ached. “Okay, we’ll do whatever Lily wants.” I watched Lily enter kindergarten, then turned and went to a law firm. I took out the divorce papers Liam had drafted and asked if they were valid. When Liam married me, it was conditional: he could ask for a divorce at any time, and I couldn’t refuse. The agreement was prepared before the marriage, with no date marked, only Liam’s signature. Once the lawyer confirmed its validity, I signed my name and asked him to handle the divorce for me. “Please, just send the divorce certificate directly to this address when it’s ready.” I left the villa’s address and stood up to leave. A familiar sting burned behind my eyes, and I tilted my head back, willing the tears away. I loved Liam, and after we married, I had tried hard, I had dreamed. But after his repeated neglect, his constant indifference, my once burning heart had slowly, agonizingly, turned to ash. Serena was back; it was time for me to go. Unluckily, after finishing my business, I saw Liam and Serena again in the main hall of a department store. Serena was stunning, radiating a bold, almost wild beauty. She linked her arm through Liam’s, beaming. Liam held her son, Finn, with one arm, his eyes filled with an almost sickeningly soft adoration. My breath hitched. How many times had I fantasized about Liam taking Lily and me shopping? Unbidden tears welled up and spilled over. I stared at them, my heart aching with an unbearable intensity. I forced my trembling legs to move, inching away. Back at the villa, I prepared a resume, along with my portfolio, and sent them to several companies I admired in Country A. Then I printed out my resignation letter and took it directly to the office. After marrying Liam, he had moved me away from his side. Now, I was just a regular employee in the admin department. The resignation process was simple. Once I handed over my current tasks, I could leave at any time. I walked from HR back to my office and started packing my things. A moment later, I heard footsteps and polite murmurs of greeting approaching the door. I looked up and saw several executives surrounding Liam and Serena as they walked in. Serena had changed clothes. Unlike her previous striking and wild style, she now looked sharp and professional, immediately capturing everyone’s attention. Liam’s arm was loosely draped around her waist, his gaze glued to her, unable to tear itself away for even a second. A fresh stab of pain pierced my heart. I looked at Liam, but he remained utterly indifferent. I lowered my gaze. The next moment, they were standing in front of me. “Clara, this is Ms. Serena, Mr. Liam’s girlfriend. She will be taking over your position. You’re being transferred to the sales department. Please ensure a smooth handover as soon as possible.” Mr. Liam’s girlfriend? Liam didn’t deny it. My eyes burned with unshed tears, and I clenched my fists. Liam was so eager to reinstate Serena, completely disregarding Lily’s and my feelings. I looked at Liam again. “Li—” Before I could finish, his icy gaze shot me a warning. “Ms. Clara, if you have any issues with your job transfer, you can speak to your direct superior.” He knit his brows, clearly wanting me to keep our relationship a secret. “She’s better suited for this position than you,” Liam added. I understood what he meant. He wasn’t just talking about work. A thousand tiny needles pricked at my heart. I forced myself to appear composed; he truly didn’t care about me. “Alright,” I nodded, shaking hands with Serena. Liam seemed satisfied. He turned back to Serena, and the harsh coldness in his eyes softened, replaced by a tenderness I’d never seen directed at me. That kind of look, Lily and I had never received. Love and indifference were so starkly obvious. Fortunately, I had long stopped expecting anything. That evening, the company spontaneously organized a team-building event, a welcome dinner for Serena. I had already resigned and didn’t want to go, but Serena insisted. “Ms. Clara, are you upset that I took your job, which is why you don’t want to attend my welcome dinner? I never intended to take anything; Mr. Liam arranged everything.” “I just started today, and I’d really love to connect with you. I don’t know many colleagues here. Could you accompany me?” I looked at her ambiguous gaze and smiled faintly, shaking my head. “You’re overthinking it. I need to pick up my daughter. I’m sorry.” “Where’s your husband? He can pick up the child!” My husband? “I don’t have a husband,” I said blandly, a bitter ache in my heart. Liam never acknowledged being my husband. Our lives were completely separate. Having one or not made no difference. “Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t know,” Serena apologized, but she was persistent, determined to make me attend. “Why don’t you bring your daughter along? My son will be here too; they can play together.” “No, my daughter doesn’t like these kinds of events.” Just as I spoke, a small figure ran toward me. “Mommy, Uncle picked me up from school today!” Lily bounced into my arms, her voice joyful. “He even brought me to find you!” My heart leaped. Liam didn’t even know which kindergarten Lily attended. How could he suddenly pick her up? I looked up. Liam strolled over from a distance, his eyes sparkling with a smile, fixed entirely on Serena. He didn’t spare me even a fleeting glance. “Liam, you know Ms. Clara’s child?” Serena asked, her face full of confusion. “I ran into her when I picked up Finn, so I brought her along. She’s Ms. Clara’s daughter; she’s been to the office a few times,” Liam explained, as if afraid she might misunderstand. When he spoke of Lily and me, his tone was distant, detached. It was as if we were strangers, as if he feared any association with us. Lily was about to call him. I glanced at Lily and subtly shook my head. She sadly lowered her eyes. “Oh, so that’s it. You probably didn’t know, but this girl doesn’t have a father. Perhaps we shouldn’t transfer Ms. Clara to the sales department; it’s hard enough raising a child alone.” Liam frowned slightly, shot me a quick glance, then said, “Alright, you decide.” Serena looked delighted, nodding gently at him. Their eyes locked, a silent, intimate conversation passing between them, oblivious to everyone else. Lily clutched my clothes, burying her head in my lap. “Mommy, Mr. Liam!” Finn’s voice broke their silent flirtation. He bounded forward, directly hugging Liam’s leg. “Mr. Liam, carry me!” Lily’s small body stiffened. She looked up at Liam and Finn. Liam picked him up, his eyes filled with a warmth, a paternal love that Lily had never once experienced from him. Seeing Lily look at him, his arm, holding Finn, gave a slight tremble, but there was no other reaction. Lily’s eyes welled up with tears of injustice. He glanced away, deliberately avoiding Lily’s gaze. “Finn, be good, you shouldn’t ask Mr. Liam to carry you. Come down now,” Serena said, trying to pull him away, but he held tightly onto Liam’s neck. “No way! I like Mr. Liam carrying me, and Mr. Liam likes carrying me too!” Finn planted a wet kiss on Liam’s cheek. “I’m hungry, I want cake!” “Alright, let’s go get some cake. Liam, shall we go in?” Serena smiled, following behind Liam. After a few steps, she didn’t forget to call out to me. “Ms. Clara, hurry up and follow us.” I knelt down. Lily was already in tears. She looked up at me with her small face. “Mommy, are they the people Uncle really likes?” At that moment, I could no longer control my grief. I pulled her into my arms, crying with her. The scene was too cruel, too devastating, even for me to bear, let alone Lily. I didn’t answer, but Lily already knew the truth. “Mommy, I want to go see again.” Lily wiped her tears with her hand and proactively took my hand. “I want to see how good Uncle’s favorite people are.” “Lily, let’s go home, okay?” I couldn’t bear for Lily to be hurt again. Lily stubbornly shook her head. “I want to go.” “Alright.” I took her hand and entered the banquet hall. The hall was crowded and lively, with Liam, Serena, and Finn at the center of attention. I found a quiet corner with Lily, and her gaze remained fixed on Liam. His tenderness and concern for Finn were something Lily had always longed for but never received. When she saw Liam personally feeding Finn fruit, Lily stood up. “Mommy, Uncle really likes them. Uncle is smiling so happily. Let’s go, let’s not bother him.” Lily’s words hit me like a physical blow, crushing my heart and leaving me breathless with pain. “Then let’s go home.” Lily nodded. I took her hand and walked toward the exit. “Ms. Clara, wait.” Liam’s secretary blocked our path. “Mr. Liam said he wants to take Lily out to play and asked you to hand Lily over to me.” He was the only one in the company who knew about our relationship. “Uncle wants to take me to play?” Lily’s dim eyes instantly brightened. She scanned the crowd, searching for Liam. The secretary nodded. “Yes, Mr. Liam gave those instructions.” At the same time, Liam sent me a message saying he wanted to take Lily to see fireworks. This was the first time. He had ever volunteered to take Lily out to play. A sense of unease settled in my heart, and I didn’t want her to go.

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My husband’s first love was seriously ill, and every day he secretly took the meals I cooked to her, treating me like his personal, unpaid maid. When our son found out, he didn’t side with me. Instead, he helped my husband hide it, and even accused me of having a dirty mind and being petty. The father and son were in cahoots, playing me for a fool. I watched them with cold eyes, deciding to finally get rid of both of those jerks. The moment Mark walked through the door, he ordered our son, Liam, to wash the dirty lunchbox he’d used for lunch. Liam was a senior in high school, a crucial year for college admissions. Hearing this, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of anger. I glared at Mark, who was sprawled on the couch. “What, are your hands broken? You need to order our son around just to wash a lunchbox?” Mark didn’t say a word. Liam, holding the lunchbox, chuckled, “It’s fine, Mom. Dad works hard all day. I should wash his lunchbox.” Liam headed to the sink, but he gasped as the cold water hit his hands. Seeing his hands turn red from the cold, I sighed. “Go on, I’ll do it.” Liam didn’t argue much, just said, “Thanks, Mom,” and left the kitchen. I tossed the lunchbox into the sink. Just as I was about to turn on the faucet, a splash of red on the spoon caught my eye. A clear red stain was printed on the milky-white ceramic spoon. I wiped it with my finger, and most of the red came off. As a woman, I knew a lipstick stain when I saw one. For years, Mark had always complained that my cooking was bland. But lately, he’d been asking me to cook more light, nutritious meals, insisting he needed to take them to work. Considering Mark’s sudden change in taste, I thought to myself, there had to be something fishy going on. The thought of Mark ordering me around like I was his personal chef, demanding this and that every day, made my anger boil. My mind was still reeling from the frustration when Liam’s voice suddenly broke through. “Mom, is dinner ready? I’m starving!” I snapped back to reality, looking at the spoon in my hand. I pulled out my phone and took a few pictures. I knew Mark too well. If I confronted him now, it wouldn’t lead anywhere. He’d come up with a hundred excuses and justifications. I needed solid proof.

As soon as the food was on the table, Mark grabbed his lunchbox and started piling things in. He poured out most of the chicken soup, took a few forks of vegetables, and then started on the steamed fish. The fish wasn’t very big to begin with, and he only took the best parts, leaving behind mostly the head and tail. Normally, I would have yelled at him already, but today, I just watched him in silence. Liam couldn’t help but glance at me; he really loved that fish. Just a few days ago, when Mark was shamelessly serving himself like this, I’d scolded him every time. And every time, Liam would try to calm me down: “Mom, Dad works so hard every day, it’s only right that he eats more.” Listen to that. As if I didn’t work every day, as if my job wasn’t tiring. Whenever I got angry at Mark’s laziness, selfishness, or hypocrisy, Liam would always side with his dad, telling me to be more understanding, just like his grandma. Fine. You two have your father-son bond, and I’m just the villain. So today, I didn’t care. I had no energy to care. Mark wasn’t stupid. Seeing my prolonged silence, he sensed something was off. He quickly picked two pieces of fish from his lunchbox and put them in Liam’s bowl. “Son, eat more. Try to get great scores on your college entrance exams and make your mother proud.” I couldn’t help but scoff. “What do you mean ‘make *me* proud’? Whatever he achieves is for himself.” Mark “tsk”-ed, annoyed. “Isn’t that just a way of saying it because you work so hard taking care of him? What’s got your panties in a twist today?” I wasn’t in the mood to argue with him. Instead, I looked at his overflowing lunchbox. It was a three-tiered container. One layer was filled with most of the chicken soup and chicken, another with most of the fish, and the last with rice. The remaining small portion of chicken and fish, all the good bits, had gone into Liam’s bowl. I had spent hours cooking, and all that was left for me were the chicken head and fish tail. Oh, wait, the fish tail was gone too; Mark had taken it. How ironic. My meal tasted like cardboard, but the father and son were chatting happily. They seemed to share a secret, talking in riddles right in front of me. In the past, even if I knew they wouldn’t tell me, I would have asked what they were talking about. But today, I was just so tired, so utterly exhausted that I barely had the strength to swallow my food. I ate only a quarter of my half-bowl of rice, and no one seemed to think anything of it. After dinner, both of them left the table as usual. Seeing that I wasn’t clearing the table as I usually did, Mark resorted to his old trick: “Liam, go wash the dishes.” Liam obediently stood up, collected the dishes and forks, and went to the kitchen. Then he turned on the faucet and called out, “It’s so cold!” But unlike usual, I didn’t tell him to leave. Liam endured washing a few dishes, then came out and said to me, “Mom, the water’s really cold, and I still have a lot of homework tonight…” “I’m not the one telling you to wash the dishes,” I said, looking at Liam. “Mom washes dishes like this every day, and I also think the water’s really cold.” Liam opened his mouth, then reluctantly went back to the kitchen. Mark lay on the couch like a king. “Who made you mad today? Don’t bring your outside problems home. Liam didn’t do anything to you.” I looked at the man sprawled on the couch, and a wave of disgust washed over me from the inside out. This disgust had been building for a long time, ever since I had witnessed his laziness, selfishness, and hypocrisy again and again. But before this, the disgust had always been suppressed. Because “that’s just how life is,” “it’s just a small thing, don’t overreact,” “all men are like this,” “just endure it and it will pass.” This disgust had been stifled and held back by suffocating conventions, until today, when it finally erupted. I gagged, a dry heave directed at Mark’s face. Mark frowned. “What’s wrong with you?” I stood up, gathered the trash, and muttered, “You’re stinking up the place. I’m going to take out the trash.” Mark grumbled, “Why are you taking out the trash so late at night?” He didn’t offer to do it, nor did he offer to come with me. I breathed a sigh of relief.

The dash cam in Mark’s car had been broken for half a month. When he told me, I urged him to get a new one right away, but he said he was an experienced driver and didn’t need it. Looking back, that must have been when things started to go wrong. I uninstalled my car’s dash cam and put it in his. I’d bought a very small dash cam back then to save money, and now it was coming in handy. After doing all this, I quietly waited for Mark to slip up. And slip up he did, the very next day. During his lunch break, Mark drove to the hospital. Everything started to make sense. Because that woman was sick, he had been subtly asking me to cook light and nutritious things. On the way to the hospital, I was still thinking that after I caught him in the act, I’d divorce him later. Liam’s college entrance exams were next semester, and he was under a lot of pressure. As a mother, I couldn’t ignore my son’s future just for immediate gratification. I also thought that no matter what, I should keep this from Liam for now. What I didn’t expect was to run into Liam directly when I arrived at the hospital. Liam was talking to a girl next to him and didn’t see me. The girl was quite pretty, with big eyes and fair skin, very much like a face I remembered. My heart skipped a beat. I quickly asked the nurse nearby, “Do you have a patient named Michelle Smith here? I’m her friend, and I’d like to see her.” The nurse said, “Michelle Smith is on the fourth floor of the inpatient department, room 402.”

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Midnight. One AM. I was jolted awake by a sudden burst of “Happy Birthday” from the dorm room across the hall. I stepped out to take a look. Through the glass doors of their balcony, I could faintly make out the flickering glow of candles and a huddled group of figures. I rolled my eyes, utterly speechless. *Are these people insane?* Celebrating a birthday in the dead of night, they’d accidentally set the place on fire with all those candles and no proper lighting. Still fuming, I went to the bathroom, then returned to my room, grabbed a pair of earplugs, shoved them in, and drifted back into a restless sleep. The next day, we were all woken by screams. That’s when we found out: there had been a massacre in the dorm room across the hall. Ten students in that single dorm room. None survived. **1** Midnight. One AM. I was jolted awake by a sudden burst of “Happy Birthday” from the dorm room across the hall. I stepped out to take a look. Through the glass doors of their balcony, I could faintly make out the flickering glow of candles and a huddled group of figures. I rolled my eyes, utterly speechless. *Are these people insane?* Celebrating a birthday in the dead of night, they’d accidentally set the place on fire with all those candles and no proper lighting. Still fuming, I went to the bathroom, then returned to my room, grabbed a pair of earplugs, shoved them in, and drifted back into a restless sleep. The next day, we were all woken by screams. That’s when we found out: there had been a massacre in the dorm room across the hall. Ten students in that single dorm room. None survived. The police quickly sealed off our university campus and took everyone to the station for questioning. Students from dorms near the crime scene, especially, were interrogated thoroughly. I was one of those singled out. They led me directly into a separate interrogation room, though thankfully, it wasn’t like something out of a crime show, with bright lights glaring and officers barking orders. Noticing my nervousness, the officer tried to reassure me, telling me not to worry and just to tell them everything honestly. I nodded, telling them everything I knew, leaving nothing out, and biting back the urge to ask how the victims had died. Honestly, I figured it was either carbon monoxide poisoning or alcohol poisoning. There was no way someone just barged in and stabbed them all to death, right? After I gave my statement, Detective Miller, the more stoic officer, walked out. Officer Ben, the other one, told me to wait a bit longer for further notice. As he organized his notes, he started making small talk. His chitchat was mostly about how I’d managed to resist my nosy instincts and hadn’t dragged my roommates out to peek at the drama. I gave him an incredulous look. “It was the middle of the night! I was exhausted. Someone was just being dramatic, celebrating a birthday. What’s so exciting about that? It’s not like someone was screaming on their balcony at 3 AM.” Officer Ben chuckled awkwardly at my eye-roll, then slyly asked, “So, if you’d known a murder was going to happen in their dorm, would you have watched a little longer?” “Yeah, probably… I mean, I’d have tried to warn them, to prevent something bad from happening… But who could have known something like that would occur? Speaking of which, I’m really curious: was it carbon monoxide poisoning? The fire in their room looked pretty big that night.” I replied. “Haha, that question… is classified,” Officer Ben said with a wink. “…Seriously?! So you were just trying to trick me?” My eyes widened. He nodded calmly, and a wave of indignation washed over me. Before I could retort further, Detective Miller returned, leading another student in. He motioned for me to leave. Reluctantly, I got up and walked out. I thought that would be the end of it, or at worst, another trip to the station for more questions. I never expected to be summoned again the very next day. Puzzled, I returned to the police station and walked into that familiar interrogation room. “Cassidy, are you certain you saw fire and heard birthday singing from the dorm across the hall that night?” The officer asked me again, seeking confirmation. I nodded firmly, a little confused why they kept asking. Surely they weren’t suspecting *me* of arson just because I saw a flicker of light? “You said you were woken up at 1:40 AM, right?” they pressed. “Yeah, 1:44 AM, actually. I’m a little superstitious; I always avoid numbers like that. That night, I literally watched my phone until it turned 1:45 before I got up to go to the balcony.” I nodded cautiously, feeling a prickle of suspicion that they were targeting me.

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After catching my wife cheating, I lost myself to a chilling fury. Six months later, my mother-in-law jumped from a building, my father-in-law suffered a heart attack, my brother-in-law was jailed, and my wife became infertile. They would never know that it all began with a single pair of high heels. It all started half a year ago. I was a delivery driver. This was my last delivery of the day, and my body was exhausted, but my heart pounded with wild excitement. I’d won the lottery! Ten first-prize tickets, totaling over ten million dollars! After the 20% tax deduction, I still had over eight million dollars left! I symbolically donated ten thousand dollars, and that afternoon, as I walked out of the lottery center, I felt like I was floating. Finally, I could share a beautiful life with my wife. But I’m a man who finishes what he starts. All deliveries for the day had to go out. Yet, as evening fell and I was about to make my final delivery, fate played a cruel trick on me. On a shoe mat by the door of one of the apartments, I saw my wife’s high heels. They were a custom-made birthday gift from me, engraved with her initials. C.M. – Chloe Miller! What were Chloe’s shoes doing here? A knot of suspicion tightened in my gut. Then, from inside the apartment, came the sound of a woman’s wild moan! “Mr. Davies, you’re so much better than my worthless husband. I’m utterly blissed out!” The words hit me like a sledgehammer. It was Chloe’s voice! My lips trembled. I raised my hand, ready to pound on the door, but stopped. What if they didn’t open? Was I just going to stand here, listening to them, like some pathetic idiot? A sudden, chilling calm washed over me. Chloe was cheating. This marriage was over. But I’d bought the lottery ticket while we were still married. By law, she’d be entitled to half of that almost eight million dollars. My lip twitched. Chloe was morally bankrupt. I wouldn’t give her a single penny. Not only that, I would make her lover pay too. To confirm it was truly Chloe inside, I called her from just outside the door. Her custom ringtone echoed from within the apartment. She immediately hung up and, a moment later, sent me a SnapChat message. “What is it? I’m in a meeting!” I stared at the message, a cold sneer twisting my lips. A meeting? At her lover’s lair? I didn’t reply. Instead, I snapped a photo of the delivery slip. The resident was a man named David Davies. I left the package by the door, then turned and walked away. From this day forward, there would be no peace for us. I changed the password on my newly opened bank account, a password only I knew, and kept the card hidden close to my body. Then, with an unnerving calm, I returned home. My mother-in-law, Brenda, my father-in-law, Arthur, and Chloe’s younger brother, Kyle, were already at dinner. They barely acknowledged my presence. Brenda wrinkled her nose in disgust. “Go take a shower, quick! Look at you, all filthy. You’re ruining my appetite.” My lip twitched, but I said nothing. Arthur tapped his fork against his plate. “You haven’t given us the grocery money this week. Look at what we’re eating!” I glanced at the table—meat and vegetables, far better than what I usually ate on the road. Still, I remained silent. Kyle, Chloe’s brother, got agitated. He stood up, his voice rising. “Mom and Dad are talking to you! Can’t you show some respect? I swear, I don’t know why my sister even married a loser like you. No money, no talent.” Exactly! This was Chloe’s family. They clung to me like parasites, draining me dry. I used to be a white-collar worker. Through my own hard work, I bought a three-bedroom apartment, putting Chloe’s name on the deed. After that, Chloe moved her parents and brother from their hometown. Later, I lost my job and became a delivery driver. From then on, the entire family treated me with even more contempt. I earned about nine hundred dollars a month, most of which went straight to Chloe. Yet she still treated me coldly, and her whole family constantly mocked and sneered at me. Before, I had no backbone. I could only endure their insults. Now that I had money, I wouldn’t let these leeches off the hook. If I was going to get revenge, I was going to savor every moment of it. I smiled, a slow, guileless grin, ignoring the three of them. I went straight to my room and began to meticulously plan my payback. A little while later, Chloe returned, looking tired, those glaring high heels still on her feet. She saw me lying on the bed, and her face twisted in rage. She pointed at me and yelled, “Who told you to lie on the bed with your clothes on? Are you filthy? “How many times have I told you, no bed without a shower! Are you trying to defy me? Get down right now! You’re not sleeping in my room tonight. Go sleep on the couch!” Chloe’s face was flushed, clearly still glowing from her recent ‘refreshment.’ When I didn’t move, she got even angrier. “I must have cursed eight lifetimes to end up with you! This is my damn karma! Do you even look like a man anymore? Get out!” I stood up, intending to go shower, but Chloe angrily snapped that she needed to shower first. She probably wanted to wash off the filth. Bitch. That night, I lay alone on the couch, listening to Chloe on FaceTime with someone, her voice incredibly intimate. My heart was unnervingly calm as I plotted my next move. A plan to destroy them, body and soul.

The next day, I went to my workplace and quit my job. Then I hired a private detective, giving him the address and phone number of the David Davies guy from yesterday, along with a photo of Chloe, and told him to investigate. Later, I saw a news report about a local lottery winner—me. Wearing a goofy costume and holding a sign displaying my over ten-million-dollar win, I looked ridiculous. I scrutinized the photos, confident no one would recognize me. My revenge plan was officially in motion. I started with Chloe’s younger brother, Kyle. He was in his early twenties, fresh out of college, unable to find a job, and spent his days loafing around. Chloe was a classic “brother-obsessed” type, giving Kyle five hundred dollars a month for pocket money – equivalent to half our household’s monthly expenses. My first step was to get Kyle out of the house and “motivate him to strive for success”! I had the private detective arrange a setup: a woman would “accidentally” meet Kyle. Just as they were about to enter a motel room, the woman’s “husband” would burst in! Caught red-handed, Kyle fell to his knees, begging for mercy, and blurted out his family’s contact information. That same day, I brought Arthur, Brenda, and Chloe to the motel. Kyle was beaten to a pulp, his face bruised and swollen. A burly man, looking like a mob boss, sat casually on the bed, smoking a cigarette, while a beautiful woman sobbed beside him. Brenda and Chloe rushed to Kyle, hugging him and wailing uncontrollably. Arthur’s face turned beet red with fury. He shouted at the man, “How dare you hit my son? I’m calling the police! You’ll pay for his medical bills!” The man casually flicked his cigarette butt. “Your son tried to sleep with my wife. How do you propose we settle this?” Brenda angrily stood up, acting like a complete shrew. “That’s because your wife was flaunting herself, seducing my son! You can’t control your own wife, and you blame my son?” Chloe’s face was flushed, and she glared. “This isn’t over! You hit my brother, and you’ll pay the price!” The man smirked. “Fine, go ahead and call the police. We’re not afraid of public embarrassment. “But as for your brother, fresh out of college, seducing a married woman… I’ll post it all online. Your whole family will be famous!” “You!” Everyone in the family, except me, was trembling with anger. Kyle was the absolute jewel of that family; they couldn’t stand for his reputation to be tarnished. Chloe crossed her arms, her voice cold. “So, what do you want?” The man grinned slyly. “He slept with my wife, so I’ll sleep with his sister. How about it?” I raised an eyebrow. This jerk wasn’t sticking to the script. He must have been taken by Chloe’s looks. “Dream on!” Chloe glanced at me, then snapped at the man. He continued to smile. “Alright, then just give me a thousand bucks. They didn’t actually do anything before I showed up, after all.” The man had clearly prepared this in advance. A thousand dollars wasn’t much. They feared Kyle’s reputation if they called the police, and Kyle getting a beating was a good lesson for him. Chloe helplessly turned to me for money. As if I’d give her any! I awkwardly mumbled that I hadn’t been paid yet. Chloe cursed me as “useless” then SnapChated a thousand dollars to the man. Only then did she leave with Kyle. She had no idea that I’d paid ten thousand dollars to set this whole thing up! I sighed inwardly. This was just an appetizer. The main course hadn’t even begun. Kyle felt humiliated and kept his head down, but seeing his demeanor, I knew this step had been successful. He wanted to escape this cage. He wanted to get rich. Back home, Arthur didn’t criticize his son. Instead, he started yelling at me, calling me a coward for not stepping up, a pathetic loser for not even defending my brother-in-law. Brenda droned on incessantly, complaining that a grown man didn’t even have a thousand dollars in his pocket, and his wife had to pay when there was trouble. Chloe found their nagging irritating and became even more hostile toward me. My heart remained utterly undisturbed. That night, I continued to sleep on the couch. Chloe was tainted. I would never touch her again. Chloe frowned, clearly preoccupied with something. The next day, I woke up early and left, depositing my lottery winnings into several different bank accounts. I used to be a senior programmer, and in my younger, more rebellious days, I was part of an activist hacker group. Even while delivering packages, I never stopped learning, earning several important certifications. These skills would be invaluable to my revenge. That day, the private detective informed me that he had successfully entered David Davies’ apartment and installed several hidden cameras. If they met again, he would definitely get the evidence. Everything was proceeding as planned. My expression was neutral, devoid of emotion. My heart was utterly broken and disillusioned with this family. Once I had the evidence, I would get my revenge. I would make Chloe and her parasitic family pay. Even though I was rich, I wouldn’t leave them a single penny. Step one was complete. Time for step two. That evening, I invited Kyle out for drinks. Kyle, still sporting a black eye, came along. He ordered the most expensive dishes and started chugging beer. Kyle scoffed. “Brother-in-law, did you hit the jackpot? Daring to treat me to dinner? Aren’t you afraid of Chloe yelling at you?” I smiled. I told him I knew of a way to get rich, and asked if he’d be interested. Kyle’s eyes lit up. He eagerly pressed me for details. I’d recently received a call from an old college acquaintance, telling me to go south to “make money.” I knew my acquaintance was trying to scam me, so I figured I’d pass this “opportunity” on to Kyle. I told him a former colleague had contacted me, asking me to be a “trader” at an offshore foreign company. He’d just sit in front of a computer all day, earning five thousand dollars a month, with a year-end bonus. But I couldn’t leave my current job, so I’d recommended him instead. Did he want to go? Kyle’s face beamed at the mention of five thousand dollars a month, just sitting at a computer. He didn’t notice my cold smirk throughout my explanation. Still, I pretended to be cautious. “After all, it’s an old colleague. Whether it’s reliable is another matter. Maybe you should think it over. But don’t tell your sister I told you, or she’ll yell at me for sending you so far away.” Kyle laughed. “Brother-in-law, you’re just too timid. Chloe has you wrapped around her finger. A grown man afraid of his wife? I really want this job, but I don’t have any money. Brother-in-law, could you lend me some travel expenses?” Even facing his doom, this guy wanted to squeeze me for money one last time. I “hesitated” for a long time before SnapChating ten thousand dollars to Kyle, reminding him not to tell his sister. Kyle laughed and agreed. That night, Kyle got drunk, muttering about getting rich and earning his mother’s and sister’s respect. I watched him, smiling, but said nothing. A hothouse child, longing for the outside world, but utterly unprepared for its dangers. The night passed without incident. Kyle left, pocketing the ten thousand dollars I’d given him. He even sent Chloe a SnapChat message: “Sis, I’m off to work. If I don’t make something of myself, I won’t come back!” Chloe was panicked. She frantically FaceTimed Kyle, but his phone was off. The whole family searched like mad, but found no trace of him. A day later, Kyle finally FaceTimed Chloe. “Sis, don’t worry. I’m just playing around with some friends for a couple of days. I’ll be back soon. I’m in a border town.” Seeing that Kyle was safe, and surrounded by friends, Chloe relaxed, though she still lectured him. I observed the entire exchange. The first part of my plan for Kyle was complete. Next, it was Arthur’s turn. I watched the old man, picking his teeth after finishing his meat, scrolling through videos of beautiful women on TikTok. I’m skilled in coding, and decoding. Yesterday, I used a specialized program to uncover all the family’s secrets and private information. Arthur had two SnapChat accounts. One had his actual profile picture. The other featured a handsome, middle-aged man. He listed his age as 42 and spent his free time chatting with pretty women. He’d even secretly gone on dates behind Brenda’s back. But as soon as they saw Arthur in person, the women always cursed him out and ran away. This old pervert was quite the player. He had strongly opposed Chloe marrying me. To buy this apartment, I’d emptied all my savings. My father even sold our family home in the countryside, leaving my parents living in a rundown shack. Even though I’d won the lottery, I needed to deal with Chloe’s family first, then I could properly care for my parents. Through the private detective, I contacted a nightclub dancer, paid her ten thousand dollars for some photos and videos, and told her she’d need to send voice messages and video chat if needed in the future. The woman winked at me, saying she’d do anything as long as it wasn’t illegal. I registered a new SnapChat account, using a profile picture of a seductive, well-preserved woman, filling the feed with alluring photos. Then, I started chatting with Arthur. Arthur was ecstatic that a female netizen was actively chatting with him. He sent red envelopes and emojis, acting utterly impatient. When he suggested a video call, I simply forwarded the account details to the nightclub dancer. Everything fell into place seamlessly. Arthur was quickly reeled in. As for his requests to meet, I just smiled and replied, “Soon! Just a little longer!” The real show was only just beginning!

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