In my past life, my twin brother Julian was always pushing me to skip class, pull all-nighters at parties gaming, then sleep through school the next day. Whenever I tried to study, he’d tease me for being a bookworm. But behind my back, he was secretly cramming late into the night and sneaking to the library with top students during breaks. When college apps rolled around, he got into an Ivy League school, landed a Wall Street job after graduation, and married a high-paid software engineer. My grades, though, were a mess. My parents looked at me with such disappointment, and I ended up juggling three part-time jobs just to scrape by. Later, I moved in with an abusive woman who eventually beat me to death. At my memorial, Julian said I was clearly smart but didn’t apply myself—everything that happened was my own fault. Unlike him, who’d worked hard since childhood to change his fate through education. The next thing I knew, I woke up crammed in a sweltering, noisy basement, in the middle of an intense gaming session with a group of guys. I shook off my grogginess, grabbed my crumpled backpack, and bolted home. When I got back, Julian was hunched over his desk, scribbling furiously under a lamp. He quickly stuffed his practice papers under his arm when he saw me. “Alex, why’re you back? What about your teammates?” He was always the one dragging me to those wild parties to game. And every time, he’d be the first to say he was tired and head home—only to study in secret. I pulled out a brand-new set of test prep books and taped an Ivy League sticker to my wall. Julian blew up instantly. “You’re applying to the Ivies? Who do you think you are?” Not only am I getting into the Ivies—I’m gonna make you realize talent isn’t something you can outwork.

I stared at the kill feed on the screen, the stench of sweat and junk food in the air making my nose wrinkle, while my teammates screamed and cursed as we lost. I looked around, stunned. I’d been reborn—back to when I was 17, a month before the SATs. I grabbed my grimy backpack off the floor and bolted, my teammates’ confused shouts fading behind me. I’d promised to carry them to the top ranks of the game. If I left, they’d definitely lose. But my future mattered way more than their temporary gaming win. I tuned everyone out, ran as fast as I could, and was home in no time. It was already 1 a.m., but Julian’s bedroom light was still on. His shadow stretched across the window as he scribbled furiously. I pushed open his bedroom door. He jumped, quickly shoving test papers under his arm. I yawned. “You said you were tired—why aren’t you in bed?” He forced a calm tone. “Woke up and realized I hadn’t packed my backpack. I’ll do it and go right to sleep.” Julian’s light went out. I flipped on my desk lamp—a lamp I hadn’t touched in years. I pulled out textbooks that still had blank name lines. In my past life, I crammed last minute and barely got into this high school. Julian, acting shocked, told me grades didn’t matter. What counted was being friends with the “cool kids”—the ones from rich families. There was a small clique at school—kids from rich, powerful families who flunked most classes. They relied on family connections and donations to get ahead. I listened to Julian, skipping class every day to hop between parties. We bragged about who was the best gamer. With minimal effort, I became their top player. But back then, I didn’t realize they were all trust-fund kids who’d go to expensive private colleges or inherit family businesses after graduation. My parents, though, were just regular working-class people. If I didn’t get into a good college, my future would be dead-end. I was decent-looking, and not long after I started working at the fast-food joint, a flashy, high-maintenance woman took interest in me. I told Julian about her, and he encouraged me to chase “true love.” He said love couldn’t be bought, and as long as we cared for each other, we could get through anything. I believed him and moved in with her. We didn’t have a wedding—just a quick courthouse ceremony. But after we tied the knot, she turned violent—hitting me, screaming at me. Every time she got drunk, she’d yell, “You and Julian share a mom—so why’s he a genius and you’re a total idiot?” Tears stinging my eyes, I thought back. I’d always been the more talented one. I’d grasp problems instantly, memorize textbooks like it was nothing. When I bombed exams, my old teachers couldn’t believe how far I’d fallen. Later, that awful woman—my wife—beat me to death. When it happened, I called Julian over and over, but he always said he was busy. The second I died, he showed up. At my memorial, everyone mourned how the once-brilliant kid had ended up so broken. Julian put on a sad face and told everyone I was clearly smart but didn’t apply myself—everything that happened was my own fault. Unlike him, who’d worked hard since childhood to change his fate through education. After everyone left, Julian gloated, finally admitting why he’d lied to me all those years. Turns out I’d been the “gifted child” growing up—all my parents’ attention and hopes were on me. He’d been consumed by jealousy, using my trust to sabotage me. This time, I’d never let history repeat itself. I’d prove that raw talent is something his endless grinding could never truly match. I grabbed a piece of paper, wrote “I WILL get into an Ivy League!” in bold letters, and taped it to my desk. I pulled out my textbooks and started from page one. By 3 a.m., I’d finished two books—every concept already locked in my memory.

I slept for two hours, then got up and was the first to rush to the classroom for morning study hall. “Alex is actually studying? That’s a first!” “The exam’s only a few months away. It’s too late to cram now—he’ll be lucky to get into community college.” “With his grades, even community college is a stretch. He’ll probably have to pay for a for-profit school.” I tuned out their whispers. My grades and acceptance letters would do the talking. Julian, as always, strolled into class right as the bell rang. He saw me and asked, “Alex, why didn’t you text me this morning?” “From now on, I’ll be at school by 5 a.m. If you can drag yourself out of bed, join me. If not, set your own alarm.” Julian looked confused. “You never study—why show up so early?” Sophia, who sat behind me, piped up excitedly: “Your brother came early to study today! No clue what’s gotten into him!” Julian froze for a second, then snapped: “Alex, after graduation, let’s get jobs together. I heard fast-food places let you make good tips if you’re good at it!” I pulled out my phone and played a video. “If fast food’s so great, why were you cramming at 1 a.m. last night?” Julian watched the video, his face draining of color. Sophia grabbed my phone and pointed at Julian: “Julian! So that’s why you always bailed mid-game! You were sneaking home to study!” “And you study secretly 24/7, yet you only have a B average? Your brain’s not exactly a supercomputer, huh?” Julian’s face turned bright red. He slammed open his textbook and started memorizing vocab. He repeated one word a dozen times—still couldn’t remember it. After school, I still hung out with my rich friends at parties. I wasn’t cutting them off—after graduation, they’d all be networking connections. In my past life, all the connections I built ended up helping Julian. After leading them to five straight wins, I bolted home. My parents saw me home early and sneered: “Look who decided to come home before midnight. I thought you’d rather die at those parties?” “Go ahead—stay out every night! Let’s see what college accepts you!” In my past life, my parents tried everything to get me to study—but I listened to Julian instead. Eventually, they gave up on me. They only made sure I had food, nothing more. After I died, they grieved for months. Mom even had to stay in the hospital to recover from the shock. I apologized right away. “Dad, Mom—I’m sorry. I was stupid before. I promise I’ll study hard and get into a good college.” Mom stared at me, then turned away to wipe her eyes. Dad helped me up. “Good for you—you’ve always had potential. Even if there’s not much time left, just try your best. Worst case, we can take a gap year and reapply.” I nodded. “Don’t worry—I’ll get in on the first try. My goal is the Ivy League.” Just then, Julian walked out of his room with a textbook. “Alex, why’re you home? I thought you were at the party with Sophia and the guys.” He stepped close, then pinched his nose. “Ugh, Alex—you smell like a bar! You’re making me sick!” Mom sniffed the air and snapped: “I knew you’d never change! You just came from a party, yet you’re lying about studying? With your grades and all the classes you skip—if you get into the Ivies, pigs will fly!” Dad sighed and followed Mom into their bedroom.

Once we were alone, Julian dropped the act. “Alex, don’t waste your time. You can’t beat me in a few months. I’ve been holding back—my real skills are way better than my GPA shows.” I scoffed and went back to my room to study. Talk is cheap—my grades would prove everything. We had weekly pop quizzes. I was improving, but still failing. Julian, though, stopped holding back. He performed at his real level—second in class, tenth in the grade. Mr. Reynolds, our guidance counselor, praised my progress. He said I could get into a decent community college. I glanced at Julian’s paper. He’d missed the hardest question—his brain really wasn’t that sharp. Julian slammed his paper down in front of me. “Look, Alex—almost perfect in Lit, A in Pre-Calc.” “Now look at yours—59 in Math. So close to passing… if we were using a 100-point scale. Too bad we’re not.” “And you’re so lopsided! At least you passed History—guess your humanities brain works better.” Sophia tried to talk sense into me. “Alex, maybe studying isn’t your thing. Don’t force it. You haven’t pulled an all-nighter with us lately—our ranks keep dropping without you.” Julian fake-scolded her. “How can you say that? My brother’s going to the Ivy League!” The class laughed. “His GPA’s not even 3.0—and he thinks he’s going to the Ivies? That’s gold!” “Does he think the Ivies are a public park? Just walk right in?” I ignored them, pulled out old SAT papers, and started practicing. Just then, Mr. Reynolds burst into the classroom. Mr. Reynolds set a stack of scratch paper on my desk. “Alex—is this yours?” I nodded. The counselor hugged me excitedly. “Genius—you’re a genius!” “Principal Miller always says I only teach average kids—but now I’ve got an Ivy League prospect!” Julian stared, shocked. “Mr. Reynolds—my brother improved, but his GPA’s only 2.8. How could he get into the Ivies?” Mr. Reynolds clapped my shoulder. “He can—definitely can. Your brother’s the most talented student I’ve ever seen.” Sophia whispered: “Mr. Reynolds must be crazy…” Mock exams rolled around. After grading, the rankings went up on the school website. Julian was near the top—I was dead last. Julian laughed. “Look at our future Ivy Leaguer—98th percentile! Wow, such improvement!” Everyone snickered. But Dean Sterling, standing nearby, said quietly: “Alex should’ve been first in the grade.” Julian glared at me, furious. “Why does everyone still believe in you? You can’t raise your GPA from below 2.0 to 4.0 in a few months!” I leaned in. “Want to know why they think I can get into the Ivies?” I laid all my test papers on his desk. His eyes grew wider and wider. “How is this possible?” “No way—you cheated! I’m reporting you!” On my answer sheets, I’d skipped all the easy questions. But every hard one? I nailed them. And of the questions I got right, Julian had only answered half correctly. Julian grabbed my papers and ran to Principal Miller’s office. He didn’t knock—just burst in. “Principal Miller! I’m reporting Alex Sanders for cheating on the mock SAT!” Inside, all the grade’s teachers were sitting with Principal Miller. Principal Miller waved me over. “Alex—perfect timing. We’re looking at your test. Can you explain why you skipped the easy questions but aced the hardest ones… with solutions beyond the curriculum?” “I just started studying. If I ranked first right away, I didn’t want to crush everyone’s confidence.” I glanced at Julian. “So I only did the hard questions. For the real exam? I’ll go all out.” Mr. Reynolds laughed. “See? That’s exactly what I thought.” Principal Miller suggested moving us to AP classes. Julian and I both said no. I didn’t care where I studied—but Julian still wanted to distract me. After school, Julian and Sophia stopped me. “Alex—let’s pull an all-nighter at Jason’s party tonight.” I agreed, leading them to five straight wins. As I was leaving to study, a woman—maybe 7 or 8 years older—stepped beside me, leaning in from behind. “Your moves are off—let big sister show you how it’s done.” I stepped back fast. A wave of cheap perfume and sweat hit me—made my stomach turn. “Who are you?” Julian jumped in: “Alex, this is Luna—no one messes with her around here. With her backing you? You’ll be untouchable.” Luna pulled out a cigarette, lit it like she thought she was cool, and blew a smoke ring. “Alex—I’ve got my eye on you. You’re mine now. Let’s go back to my place.” Julian smiled and pushed my backpack at me. “You’re lucky Luna likes you—go with her. I’ll cover for you with Mom and Dad.” Luna reached for me, but I dodged. “Don’t touch me.” Luna grinned—her teeth were yellow from smoking. “Why so stuck-up? Your brother said you were easygoing.” Sophia stepped in front of me. “I don’t care who you are—get lost! If you touch Alex, you’ll answer to me!” Everyone was staring. Luna looked humiliated—she lunged at Sophia, yelling. By the end, we were all at the police station.

Sophia had scrapes on her face. Luna was worse—her nose looked broken. She was sobbing at the station, screaming for justice. My parents arrived and started yelling. “You’re bad enough on your own—now you’re dragging Julian down! I told you—ruin your own life, but leave Julian alone!” Mom tried to hit me, but a cop stopped her. “Mrs. Sanders—please calm down. It’s not what you think.” Julian looked scared the cop would tell the truth. He started crying. “Mom—Alex has been improving. His GPA’s almost 2.8. I saw him at Jason’s party and tried to get him home. I didn’t know he’d gotten mixed up with that woman… then we fought.” “Mom—I don’t want Alex to get worse. Maybe send him to a teen behavior program? Once he’s fixed, he can come back and apply to college. He’d get into a good school then.” Mom sighed. “Maybe that’s the only way. Alex was smart as a kid—but games and bad friends ruined him. I’ll look into it tomorrow.” Sophia—her face still scraped—ran to Mom. “Mrs. Sanders—don’t listen to Julian! He called Alex to the party. He brought Luna there to force Alex to go with her. Alex refused… that’s why I fought Luna.” Julian looked shocked. He started sobbing loudly. “Sophia—I know you like Alex, but you can’t lie about me! How would I know someone like Luna?” “If Alex didn’t hang out at those parties, Luna never would’ve noticed him! They’ve probably been together for months!” Mom slapped me. “You’ve disappointed me so much! You don’t study—and now you’re with that woman! We have to send you away—so you can break up with her!” Julian stood behind Mom, grinning at me. Finally, the cop had enough. He told Mom everything that really happened. Mom stared at Julian. “Julian—you’re always so good. How could you get mixed up with that woman? How could you let her bully your brother? He’s your twin!” “How could you become this person?” Julian’s plan was exposed—he stopped pretending. “Why did I become this way? You and Dad should know! Alex and I are twins—so why is he tall and handsome, and I’m just… ordinary? Like a background character!” Mom had explained this before: we were fraternal twins. I looked like Mom; Julian looked like Dad. But Julian could never accept it. “Why is he so smart? He never studied—crammed for two weeks before ninth grade and still got into this school. Slacked off for three years—studied a month before the SATs and can solve the hardest questions! What about me? I work so hard—sleep four hours a night, got sick, even my period’s messed up—and I’m only tenth in the grade!” “I’m exhausted—and I still can’t beat him! Why did you give him all the good genes?!” My parents stood there, helpless. No one could answer that—looks and smarts aren’t choices. Julian turned to Sophia, angry. “And you—Sophia! What does Alex have that I don’t? You canceled your family’s Europe trip for him! Haven’t you seen how I treat you?” I stared at Sophia, shocked. I thought she only hung out with me to carry her in games. In my past life, Julian and Sophia’s families got close later—I always thought… Sophia’s mom arrived then. After hearing what happened, she smiled. “If young people like each other—so long as it doesn’t hurt their studies—we parents are okay with it.” Mom stepped in front of me, blocking Sophia’s look. “Alex is too young. Now’s not the time for that.” Sophia’s mom stood beside Mom. “Mrs. Sanders—our Sophia isn’t big on school. We don’t expect her to run the business. If Alex and Sophia hit it off later… our family business could go to someone capable like Alex. It’s not a Fortune 500, but it’s worth a lot.” Julian’s face turned red. He ran out into the rain, yelling back: “Alex—I’ll beat you! I’ll be better than you!” Competition is good—I admired his drive. But not if it meant ruining my life.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “331622”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #重生Reborn #现实主义Realistic #浪漫Romance #魔幻Magic #校园School

My so-called “charity case” Luke— the guy who claimed he had to save up just to buy a soda— was cheating on me. When I got home late that night, he wasn’t waiting at the door in his usual apron. He didn’t blush and bury his face in my neck, softly asking, “Sophia, are you hungry?” The living room was pitch-black, reeking of a strange tobacco smell that made me frown. In the moonlight, I saw him sitting dead-center on the couch. Scattered at his feet were all the limited-edition sneakers I’d bought him— now slashed to ribbons, looking like a pile of worthless junk. I frowned and flipped the light switch. “Luke, what the hell is wrong with you? If you don’t want this, get out.” He slowly lifted his head, his eyes glinting with a sinister mockery I’d never seen before. Those eyes— once only capable of feigning innocence— were now like daggers. “Fine, Sophia.” To get rid of him, I tossed a half-million-dollar check onto the table. “Take it and disappear. Don’t let me see you again.” But he picked up the check, pulled out a lighter, and burned it to ash right in front of me. The flames danced across his suddenly unfamiliar face. He smiled. “Five hundred grand? Sophia, do you take me for a beggar?” “So, what do you want?” I asked. He stood up, towering over me, his fingers brushing my lips. His voice dropped to a terrifying whisper. “I want you… to beg me to stay.” I scoffed and turned to leave, convinced he’d lost his mind. That is, until the next day, when the newly appointed group chairman walked into the office. When I saw that familiar face, the coffee cup in my hand slipped and shattered on the floor. He settled into the head chair, pointed at me, and smiled like the devil. “Director Sophia, you’ve spilled your coffee. Be a dear and clean it up, won’t you?”

In that moment, all I felt was sheer absurdity. Watching Luke storm out, I didn’t get angry— I laughed. The kid was clearly spoiled rotten by me, pulling such a pathetic attention-seeking stunt. Burning a half-million-dollar check? That was more money than he’d make in a hundred years of working. I surveyed the messy living room. The floor was littered with slashed sneakers— reverse-swoosh Jordans, one pair even a rare collector’s item I’d won at auction. And that crystal ornament, shattered to pieces, was a gift from me for his last birthday. It wasn’t worth much, but he’d cried half the night, swearing it was the best gift he’d ever gotten. Now, these “best gifts” were jagged shards of glass. I kicked the fragments aside and walked to the liquor cabinet to pour myself a whiskey. The burning liquid slid down my throat, quelling the strange, unsettling feeling in my chest. Luke’s final look kept replaying in my mind. So completely unrecognizable. For three years, he’d been as docile as a golden retriever. When I worked late, he’d bring me dinner; when my stomach ached, he’d stay up all night rubbing my belly; when I lost my temper, he’d even kneel to massage my feet, smiling and asking if I felt better. He was just a good-looking, broke student— completely useless except for the emotional support he provided. At least, that’s what I always believed. “Freaking psycho,” I muttered, slamming the glass onto the table. My phone vibrated. It was my assistant, Chloe, with my schedule. I glanced at it and replied: “Cancel all of Luke’s supplementary cards. Also, contact his university— tell them I’m withdrawing my sponsorship and he needs to refund this semester’s scholarship.” If he wanted to leave, he could leave with nothing. I, Sophia, never make losing deals. If he wasn’t going to play nice, I’d make him learn what real hardship felt like before he even starved. I didn’t sleep well that night. In my dreams, a pair of eyes watched me constantly, like they were ready to devour me whole. The next morning, Chloe’s frantic call jolted me awake. “Boss, something’s wrong,” her voice trembled. I rubbed my temples, my morning crankiness making my tone sharp. “Has the sky fallen? Spit it out.” “Luke’s card… I can’t cancel it.” I froze, then scoffed. “What do you mean ‘can’t’? It’s a supplementary card I issued— I’m the primary cardholder.” “The bank said…” Chloe swallowed hard. “That card’s linked to an overseas family trust fund. Not only is the credit limit unlimited, but even the authorization… is above yours. The bank manager said if we absolutely have to cancel it, we need authorization from… Mr. Harrison himself.” My hand holding the phone hung in mid-air. My head was spinning. An unlimited black card? An overseas trust? The Luke who’d walk five kilometers just to save a couple bucks on bus fare to bring me an umbrella? The Luke whose cheap T-shirts were washed until they faded? “Are you still drunk?” I snapped back. “Boss, there’s something even crazier,” Chloe was on the verge of tears. “You asked me to cancel his scholarship at the university. They said… there’s no record of him.” I shot upright. “What do you mean no record? He’s been studying there for three years!” “His file is empty, encrypted with… the highest level of federal scrambling. The dean himself replied, saying the name is fake, his enrollment is fake, and even the staff member we usually dealt with was actually… the Harrison family’s security chief in disguise.” My phone slipped from my hand, landing softly on the duvet. I suddenly remembered Luke’s eyes when he burned the check last night. It was like watching a jester try to bribe a king with two pieces of candy.

I refused to believe anything so absurd. I, Sophia, had clawed my way through the business world for ten years. They called me the “Medusa of Wall Street.” I was the one who outsmarted others— when had anyone ever played me like this? I skipped breakfast, grabbed my car keys, and rushed out. First stop: the convenience store where he used to work. It was just down the street from my apartment, open twenty-four hours. When I used to come home late, I’d always see him in his green uniform behind the counter. He’d flash that goofy smile when he saw my headlights, then run out to hand me a warm bottle of milk. I parked my car haphazardly on the roadside and pushed open the door, heels clicking. “Welcome!” A chubby guy I didn’t recognize stood behind the counter. “Where’s Luke?” I asked, pulling off my sunglasses, direct and blunt. The chubby guy blinked. “Who?” “The college student who used to work the night shift. Tall and thin, he looks really…” I trailed off, realizing I couldn’t describe Luke’s looks beyond “handsome.” “Oh, you mean that rich kid who was ‘slumming it’?” The store manager popped his head out from behind a shelf, looking gossipy. “He quit ages ago. Left last night.” “Slumming it?” I latched onto the phrase sharply. The manager wiped his hands on a rag, giving me a “how could you not know?” look. “Yeah, the guy bought all the properties on this street. Said his girlfriend lived nearby, so to be close to her, he just picked a store to ‘hang out’ in. We couldn’t let him do any real work. All those basic milk and bread items? He bought premium imported stuff out of his own pocket and swapped the packaging.” I felt dizzy, having to steady myself against a shelf. Imported goods, repackaged? No wonder the convenience store sandwiches tasted better than Michelin-starred meals, no wonder the dollar-fifty bottled water tasted like Alpine snowmelt. It was all an act? “He also said…” The manager glanced at my face, then hesitated. “Said what?” “He said these three years were like getting a degree in acting, and now he’d graduated and it was time to go back and take over the family business.” A chill ran through me, like someone had dumped a bucket of ice water over my head. Turns out, I hadn’t been caring for a stray dog— I’d been housing a wolf in sheep’s clothing. I spent the entire day frantically searching for him, like a chicken with its head cut off. I went to his supposed hometown— an old apartment in Brooklyn— only to find it had long been converted into high-rise office buildings. I called the numbers he’d given me for his “relatives,” all disconnected. I felt like a fool, living in a massive reality show with Luke as both director and star. Returning to the office that evening, I collapsed into my chair, staring out at the bustling city lights. My phone suddenly vibrated. A photo from an unknown number. No text, just an image. The background was the dim interior of a car. A slender, elegant hand casually dangled a diamond necklace. I knew that necklace all too well. It was the finale item at last month’s auction— a pink diamond named “Tear of Eternity,” sold for twelve million dollars. When I watched the live stream, I’d casually remarked, “It’s so beautiful.” Luke, who was peeling grapes for me at the time, simply said, “It’s just a rock.” Now, that “rock” was being held by him like a piece of trash. Immediately after, a text message arrived. [It’s for you, Miss Sophia.] [Your ‘technique’ over the past three years wasn’t bad. Consider this… your service fee.] Crash! I hurled my phone against the wall. Service fee? Luke, Lucas Harrison… whatever your name is, you’re unbelievable. Who did he think I was? A call girl? And to add such a humiliating comment as “technique wasn’t bad”? I trembled with rage, my nails digging into my palms until they drew blood. In that moment, I finally understood: the docile, poor student was gone. In his place stood a malicious devil I didn’t recognize. And this devil was watching me from the shadows, reveling in my breakdown.

Turns out, Lucas wasn’t just interested in watching me lose my mind. He wanted to crush my dignity under his heel. Monday’s routine board meeting was eerily suffocating. Robert, the chairman and my direct superior, was now relegated to a subordinate seat, drenched in cold sweat, constantly wiping his glasses. “Sophia, I heard the group was maliciously acquired by some mysterious capital?” Emily leaned over, lowering her voice. “What kind of new boss is this? Robert looks terrified.” My heart sank. That ominous feeling grew stronger. “I have no idea,” I replied, coolly organizing my documents. The meeting room doors swung open. The previously noisy room fell silent. Two lines of black-suited bodyguards entered, quickly securing all exits. Then, a man in a charcoal gray bespoke suit walked in. Behind him followed a team of top-tier lawyers— an entourage that seemed less for a meeting and more for a sentencing. He was tall and lean, with broad shoulders and a narrow waist. His face was still exquisitely handsome, impossible to look away from, but his demeanor had undergone a drastic transformation. The old Luke’s eyes were clear and dewy, always looking at people with an eagerness to please. But now, his hair was swept back, revealing a clean, full forehead. A pair of gold-rimmed glasses rested on his nose, and behind the lenses, his eyes were cold, mocking, and condescending. He walked straight to the head chair and sat down, long legs crossed, his slender fingers lightly tapping on the mahogany conference table. Tap, tap, tap. Each tap echoed directly in my chest. The room was dead silent. His gaze slowly swept across the room, finally locking precisely onto my face. A familiar yet utterly alien smirk played on his lips. “Allow me to introduce myself,” his voice was deep and magnetic, carrying a hint of casual laziness. “Lucas Harrison.” “New Executive Director of Harrison Group, and… your new boss.” A collective gasp echoed through the conference room. The Harrison family? The legendary, all-powerful Harrison family that monopolized half the energy industry? The mysterious, ruthless heir who’d just fought his way to power? I stared at him, my nails almost tearing through the folder in my grip. Luke. Lucas. So that’s how it was. He looked at me, his eyes playful. “Director Sophia, you don’t seem very welcoming.” I took a deep breath, stood up, and tried to keep my voice steady. “Mr. Harrison, you jest. Since it’s a company decision, I naturally comply.” “Comply?” He chuckled softly, pushing up his glasses. “Good.” He casually picked up an HR appointment letter from the table, not even glancing at it, and tossed it in front of me. “Since Director Sophia is so respectful of the rules, this will be easy.” “Given Ms. Sophia’s… mediocre performance in past projects, and her chaotic personal life, which severely impacts the company’s image.” He paused, his smile deepening. “Effective immediately, Ms. Sophia is relieved of her position as Investment Director.” Emily shot to her feet. “Mr. Harrison! This isn’t fair! Sophia is a core executive— she led all the major projects these past few years—” “Did I give you permission to speak?” Lucas didn’t even lift his head, merely giving Emily a dismissive glance. The sheer pressure in that instant silenced even Emily, a woman who’d weathered countless storms. He turned back to me, his gaze like that of a predator eyeing its prey. “However, I do appreciate Miss Sophia’s… certain ‘talents’.” “Therefore, I’m specially appointing Sophia as my personal assistant, responsible for my daily needs and schedule.” Personal assistant? From a partner earning a million a year to a tea-fetching errand girl? Humiliation. Naked, blatant humiliation. I gritted my teeth, looking at him coldly. “What if I refuse?” “Refuse?” Lucas sounded as if he’d heard a joke. “Of course, Miss Sophia can refuse. However, I hear Miss Sophia’s parents are still serving time in prison? If something were to happen to them inside… or if their parole applications kept getting denied…” Despicable! He was threatening me with that! I trembled with rage. This boy, who once couldn’t even stand to watch me clean a fish, was now using my family against me. “Fine.” I spat the word through clenched teeth. “I accept.” When the meeting ended, executives filed out, no one daring to meet my eyes. As I prepared to leave, that devilish voice called from behind me. “Stop.” My footsteps halted. “Did I say you could leave?” Lucas leaned back in his chair, pointing to the coffee cup he’d knocked over earlier. Brown liquid had pooled on the table, dripping steadily onto the expensive carpet. He looked up at me, his eyes full of malicious, vengeful glee. “Director Sophia, oh no— Assistant Sophia.” “The coffee’s spilled. Come on, clean it up.”

I stood there, staring at the brown stain, feeling my blood rush to my head. If this were before, anyone who dared to speak to me like that would have had a glass of water thrown back in their face. But now, he was Lucas— wielding absolute power over the entire group— and I was a prisoner with my weakness exposed. I took a deep breath, telling myself, *Sophia, you’ve seen worse. This petty game is nothing more than a child’s tantrum.* I turned, walked to the cleaning cabinet in the corner, took out a rag, and returned to the conference table. Lucas watched me, completely at ease, twirling a limited-edition pen in his long fingers— his eyes like those of someone watching a circus act. I bent down, wiping the table stroke by stroke. As I bent, the hem of my professional skirt rode up slightly. I could feel his gaze shamelessly linger on my waistline. It was an invasive gaze— not just filled with desire, but more with the arrogance of one surveying their property. “What’s wrong? You were so gentle wiping sweat off me in bed, why are you scrubbing a table so hard now?” He suddenly spoke, his voice low yet jarringly loud in the empty conference room. My movements halted. I snapped my head up to glare at him. “Boss, it’s work hours.” “Is it?” He chuckled softly, stood up, and walked around the table to stand behind me. The unfamiliar scent of cologne mixed with tobacco instantly enveloped me. He leaned in close, his warm breath fanning my ear, sending a shiver down my spine. “I remember Assistant Sophia used to enjoy doing other things during work hours,” his hand hovered around my waist without touching, “like, in front of the office’s floor-to-ceiling windows… teaching me how to kiss.” I straightened up abruptly, throwing the coffee-stained rag onto the table. “Lucas, aren’t you being childish?” I turned to face him, looking him straight in the eye. “If you went through all this trouble to acquire this company just to humiliate me, then you must be incredibly bored.” The smile in his eyes instantly vanished. “Humiliate?” He stepped closer, trapping me between the conference table and himself. “Sophia, you can’t handle this? For three years, when you treated me like a dog, ordering me around, did you ever think I might do the same to you one day?” “When did I ever treat you like a dog?” I scoffed, angry laughter bubbling up. “I provided food and shelter, even bought you the best underwear. You call that ‘treating you like a dog’?” “Isn’t it?” He suddenly flared up, grabbing my chin and forcing me to look up. “You’d pet me when you were happy, then ignore me when you weren’t. I cooked for you, warmed your bed, was your emotional punching bag—did I ever say no to anything? But how did you treat me?” His eyes were bloodshot, his voice hoarse. “Five hundred thousand. You tried to dismiss me with a single check. Sophia, in your eyes, was I really that cheap?” I was stunned. *Is that what he cared about?* “You were the one who wanted to break up!” I yelled back. “You were the one who said you didn’t care anymore!” “That was…” He hesitated, his eyes swirling with emotion before settling into a cold stillness. “Forget it. There’s no talking to a heartless woman like you.” He let go, then fastidiously pulled out a handkerchief to wipe his fingers— as if he’d touched something filthy. “Go, get me a coffee,” he reverted to that haughty coldness. “I want a pour-over Geisha from ‘Blue Bottle’ on Fifth Avenue. If it’s not here in thirty minutes, you can clean the toilets.” Blue Bottle Coffee was in the city center, twenty kilometers away. It was rush hour— I couldn’t even fly there in thirty minutes. He was doing this on purpose. But I didn’t argue. I turned and walked out. Outside the office, I immediately pulled out my phone and called for a rush delivery. I added a three-hundred-dollar tip, ensuring it would arrive in twenty minutes. Then I went to my workstation— now a small desk outside the CEO’s office— opened my laptop, and pulled up the files for the Harrison Group’s latest acquisition. It was a billion-dollar project. The Harrison Group aimed to acquire a tech company, but I immediately spotted discrepancies in their financial report. If I didn’t point it out, Lucas would sign— and that billion would go down the drain. As much as I wanted to see him lose money, this company was also my hard work— I couldn’t bear to watch it crumble. Thirty minutes later. I carried the delivered coffee and knocked on the CEO’s office door. “Come in.” Lucas was looking at documents, his brow furrowed. I placed the coffee next to him. “Boss, your coffee.” He glanced at his watch, raising an eyebrow. “That fast? Did you fly back?” “Money makes the world go ’round, didn’t you teach me that, Boss?” I offered a fake smile. He snorted, picked up the coffee, and took a sip. Just as he was about to find fault, I slapped a document down in front of him. “Boss, while you’re drinking your coffee, take a look at this.” “What is this?” “Your billion-dollar project. The other party’s core technology patent expires in three months, and they’ve concealed a two-hundred-million-dollar debt guarantee,” I said calmly, as if discussing the weather. “The legal department’s incompetent team missed it. I’ve highlighted it for you.” Lucas paused, set down his coffee, and flipped through a few pages of the document. His expression shifted from casual indifference to serious, then finally a complex look as he stared at me. “Why help me?” he asked. “Wouldn’t seeing me lose a billion be more satisfying?” I leaned forward, hands braced on the desk, looking directly into his eyes, and offered the first genuine smile I’d shown today. “Boss, a brain is a good thing. I hope you acquired one when you bought the company.” “I’m not helping *you*— I’m not letting *my* company be ruined by an idiot.” “And,” I pointed to the coffee cup, “consulting fee: five hundred thousand. Make sure it’s wired to my account.” With that, I turned dramatically, leaving him with a proud back. Behind me, I heard the heavy thud of documents being closed, and Lucas’s gritted-teeth remark: “Sophia, I truly want to stitch that mouth of yours shut.” I curved my lips into a smirk. Want to tame me? In your next life, kid.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “331621”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #重生Reborn #现实主义Realistic #浪漫Romance #魔幻Magic #校园School

To repay a debt of gratitude, I married Maddox, the grandson of my benefactor, a man afflicted with aphasia. For three years, I dedicated myself to caring for him, yet he remained stubbornly cold. I always thought Maddox was simply aloof by nature, until my mother fell gravely ill and was admitted to the hospital. “Tessa, it’s been three years. I’ve waited for you for three years. If Grandfather hadn’t disagreed back then, you’d be my wife right now!” “Maddox, let go!” Tessa’s voice was tinged with anger. “What’s the point of saying all this now? You’re already married!” “Married?” Maddox’s sneer pierced my eardrums. “She was forced on me by Grandfather. I never acknowledged her as my wife. I promised you I wouldn’t speak to other women, so I pretended to be mute for three years and ignored her. Don’t you understand my heart?” Jessica’s POV “You joined this hospital, owned by the Miller family, wasn’t it for me?” The hospital fire escape door was ajar. From inside came a man’s clear, low voice, filled with a searing emotion I’d never heard before. Something exploded in my mind. I clapped a hand over my mouth and stumbled back half a step, unable to believe my ears. Maddox… he could speak? He wasn’t suffering from trauma-induced aphasia, had he not spoken a word to me for three years? I thought he had some deep-seated emotional block, so I never dared to ask, only treating him with even greater care. But it turned out he could speak? It turned out, these three years of silence weren’t due to illness. They were born of disgust, a way to remain emotionally reserved for another woman. With every word Maddox spoke, my heart ached a little more. I couldn’t help but remember the thousand-plus days and nights after marrying this man. The nourishing soup I spent hours simmering was always coldly poured down the drain. My SnapChat messages to him always vanished into thin air, until one day I accidentally glimpsed his phone and found my chat window set to “Do Not Disturb.” Even our few intimate moments only happened under Grandfather Miller’s insistence. But even in those intimate times, he never spared me a single glance. In fact, after each routine encounter, he would spend two full hours showering. Normally, he’d rather stay in his room and take care of things himself than touch me, his legal wife. His room was even explicitly forbidden to me, secured with a high-security fingerprint lock. As if I were something dirty. My enthusiasm dwindled bit by bit, but I could never bring myself to give up. Only because Maddox wasn’t just the person I promised Grandfather Miller I’d care for; he was also the man I’d secretly loved for seven years. But now, it seemed there was no need for me to persist. I instinctively raised my hand, gently covering my still-flat belly. There, a tiny life, whose existence I had just confirmed this morning. In between rushing around for my gravely ill mother, this news was like a sliver of light breaking through the gloom, giving me a humble glimmer of hope in my hopeless marriage. I even fantasized that if Maddox knew about the baby, would he treat me a little differently? And at this moment, I was only left with relief. Relief that this last card hadn’t been played. This child was the last shred of my dignity, untouched in this absurd marriage. I backed away step by step, my heels shaky, until I reached the long bench at the end of the hallway. I could no longer stand, and sank onto it. I fumbled for my phone, my fingers trembling so much I could barely hold it, but I managed to call Grandfather Miller, who was recuperating abroad, and briefly explained the situation. “Grandfather,” my voice was hoarse but unusually calm, “The three-year agreement is almost up. I… can’t go on.” The other end of the line was silent for a long time, then a heavy sigh. “Jessica, the Miller family has wronged you. I’ll arrange the divorce. You just need to sign after the thirty-day cooling-off period. I’ll compensate you. As for the child…” “I’ll have the baby. This is my child, it has nothing to do with him.” The call ended, and tears spilled from my eyes without warning. I wiped the wetness from my face with force, taking a deep breath. Thirty more days. Maddox, I’ll give you the freedom you want.

Jessica’s POV I stayed at the hospital for a long time before my mother’s urging made me go home. The living room lights were off, and a strong smell of whiskey hit me. By the moonlight filtering through the window, I saw Maddox’s tall frame slumped in the sofa, already passed out drunk. His brows were tightly furrowed, and a few indistinct syllables unconsciously escaped his thin lips. I took a few steps closer and heard clearly. “Tessa… don’t leave…” The voice was hoarse, painful yet lingering. My heart gave a sharp twist, as if something had violently wrung it. I once thought Maddox was inherently cold, a lofty deity whose emotions wouldn’t be swayed by anyone. It turned out this iceberg wasn’t incapable of melting; it was just that the sun that could melt him was never me. Over the years, taking care of him had almost become second nature. I bent down, laboriously helped him up, gritted my teeth, and, supporting him, shuffled him step by step towards the second floor. After we married, Maddox gave me the spacious, comfortable master bedroom and moved into the guest room. Yet, the distance across the hall felt like a thousand miles. The guest room door was, as usual, tightly closed and locked. I paused in front of it, hesitating. I had never been allowed to set foot in Maddox’s room, but now that the woman he loved was back, he probably wanted to be in the same room with me even less. I finally used his fingerprint to unlock it. A soft “beep,” and the door slowly opened. As the light fell and revealed the scene before me, I froze, my mind blank. The bedroom was covered wall-to-wall with Tessa’s photos and portraits. On the walls, on the cabinets, even on the ceiling… frames of all sizes displayed Tessa’s bright smiles and various moments of her life I’d never seen. But what truly made my scalp crawl was the life-sized custom-made doll of Tessa, dressed in silk pajamas, quietly propped against the headboard of the large bed in the center of the room. Perhaps returning to his familiar private space, Maddox’s consciousness cleared a bit. He abruptly pushed away my supporting hand with such force that I stumbled and crashed into the doorframe. Maddox didn’t even glance at me. He staggered to the bed and, like a devout believer seeking salvation, expertly pulled the doll tightly into his arms. He rubbed his cheek against the doll’s cold hair with yearning, the discomfort of his drunkenness gradually replaced by a mesmerizing sense of satisfaction and deep affection. He murmured, “Tessa… my Tessa…” I clamped my hand over my mouth, desperate to stifle the gasp that threatened to escape. The sight before me was so eerie it sent shivers down my spine. I could almost imagine how, on countless nights when I lay alone in the next room, Maddox was here, with these photos, this doll, channeling the twisted, fervent desires he couldn’t express to the real person. A wave of intense nausea violently surged from my stomach. I couldn’t stay another second. I turned and rushed back to my bedroom. As soon as I locked the door, I collapsed by the sink, retching uncontrollably until my stomach was empty, leaving only bitter bile. It took a while for me to emerge from the bathroom, my gaze unconsciously falling on the wedding photo on the bedside table. That was the only picture Maddox and I had together. Ten years ago, as a scholarship student supported by Grandfather Miller, I first stepped into the Miller home – and that was also my first meeting with Maddox. My nervousness and awkwardness left me flustered, and a sudden period only made things worse. A small, embarrassing red stain appeared on my light-blue pants, strikingly visible, making me want to disappear. It was that dazzling young man, silent as the stars, who took off his designer jacket and, with natural ease, tied it around my waist, covering the mess. He bent slightly, and in a voice only we could hear, gently said, “Don’t be scared, it’s okay. Only I saw it, but I have a bad memory, I’ll forget it soon.” The flutter in my heart at that moment was clear and intense. Later, I accepted the Miller family’s sponsorship, transferred to his private school, and studied desperately, only to be closer to him, just a little closer. I helped him with his studies, took care of his daily needs, like a sunflower, humbly turning towards his light, yet never daring to get too close, afraid of annoying him. Until Grandfather Miller found me again, saying Maddox had developed aphasia due to an accident, his emotions highly unstable, and hoping I could stay by his side as his wife for three years. No matter the outcome, after three years, I could choose whether to stay or leave. I hadn’t intended to agree, but then, Maddox actually sent me a SnapChat message, proposing. That line on the screen, “Let’s get married,” filled me with wild joy, foolishly believing he might reciprocate a tiny bit of my feelings. Now, it seemed it was merely a forced compromise under his grandfather’s immense pressure. I looked at the photo of my younger self, eyes full of light, and quietly said, “Jessica, you were so foolish.”

Jessica’s POV I didn’t sleep a wink. I made sure to get up early because I didn’t want to run into Maddox; I didn’t know how to face him. As I reached the entryway, the living room light suddenly came on. Maddox stood at the top of the stairs, wearing a bathrobe, his face pale from a hangover, but his eyes were clear as he looked at me. He picked up his phone and typed. 【Was it you who brought me back to my room yesterday?】 I knew Maddox remembered nothing when he was drunk, so I shook my head. “I didn’t see you when I got back. You must have gone back on your own.” Maddox came a little closer, watched me pack my things, and pursed his lips. 【What have you been busy with these past few days? I rarely see you at home.】 I didn’t stop, continuing towards the door, bending down to change my shoes: “My mom’s in the hospital. I have to go take care of her.” His phone chimed again: 【Is it serious? Why didn’t you tell me?】 My hand paused as I tied my shoelaces. I didn’t look up, my voice flat, with a hint of self-mockery, “I thought you wouldn’t care about these things.” I picked up my bag from the entryway cabinet, as if suddenly remembering something: “The doctor said her condition isn’t great. She needs surgery.” I noticed his fingers tighten on his phone as I continued, “The hospital assigned Tessa, Dr. Tessa. She’s quite young, just back from abroad, I heard. Such a major surgery, entrusting it to a rookie, I’m not comfortable. I’m going to ask today if we can get a more experienced specialist.” The moment I finished speaking, Maddox’s face changed. He abruptly lowered his head, his fingers flying across the screen. 【No!】 【How will she face anyone in the hospital if you do that!】 I stood still, quietly watching him. So, my mother’s life was worth less than Tessa’s pride. Maddox seemed to realize his reaction was excessive. He paused, then added, his tone softening a little but still firm: 【Suddenly changing the attending physician isn’t good for Mom either.】 Maddox seemed uncomfortable under my gaze, shifting his eyes away, no longer meeting mine. I said nothing more, reaching for the doorknob, but my wrist was suddenly grabbed by him. He shoved his phone screen in front of me; a new line of text read: 【I’ll go to the hospital with you. For the next few days, I’ll go with you every day.】 A month ago, if he had said that, I probably would have secretly rejoiced for days. But now, I only felt sarcasm. He didn’t want to accompany me; he was just finding a plausible excuse to see the woman he held dear every day. This realization made me sad, and also made me clearer. This attending physician had to be changed. Not only because being stuck between them was unbearable, but more importantly, in the past few days, I’d noticed Tessa’s inexperience and hesitation in managing my mother’s case. I couldn’t risk my mother’s life. I had already discussed this with Grandfather Miller over the phone last night. Grandfather said he would help me, and he already had a candidate in mind – a specialist named Dr. Noah. However, Dr. Noah was currently at a medical conference in another state and wouldn’t be back for a few days. Maddox’s performance was impeccable. He not only accompanied me to the hospital but also had his assistant buy many nourishing gifts. Mom was delighted, rare for her to have such high spirits, and she pulled Maddox into conversation. She didn’t know the true nature of Maddox’s and my relationship, but she could see how much I loved him, so she extended her affection to him. Maddox was surprisingly patient, staying at the bedside for the entire morning. Until Tessa appeared for her rounds. Though Maddox made no outward moves, his gaze was fixed on her, oblivious to everyone else. Tessa briefly questioned Mom, but misstated her condition several times. As she was about to leave, I called out to her.

Jessica’s POV I called her out of the hospital room, and Maddox followed, standing right beside Tessa. It was so natural, as if they were the couple. “Doctor.” I tried to keep my tone level. “There’s something I’d like to discuss with you. For my mother’s surgery, our family has arranged for a more experienced specialist, Dr. Noah, to take over. We won’t trouble you with the follow-up.” I phrased it politely. It’s common for patients to request a different doctor if they have doubts about the treatment plan. But Tessa looked as if she had suffered a terrible blow, her eyes reddening almost instantly. She didn’t look at me, her gaze fixed directly on Maddox, her lips trembling slightly, her voice choked with a sob: “Maddox… is this how you’re getting back at me?” Her tears flowed. “Yes, three years ago, I was wrong to abandon you to study abroad. But you don’t have to target me like this… You know this is the first important patient I’ve been responsible for since returning to the country. If I’m replaced, how will I establish myself in this hospital?” She choked, “You know I stayed because of you…” Maddox’s face suddenly changed. He opened his mouth, seemingly wanting to say something, but his gaze swept over me, standing beside them, and he swallowed the words back, just shaking his head forcefully. Tessa’s tears fell even harder. She took a step back, her eyes filled with disappointment and resentment: “I hate you!” With that, she cried and turned to run away. Almost simultaneously, Maddox rushed after her without thinking, his steps hurried and chaotic. As he passed me, he paused, turned his head, and shot me a venomous glare, full of resentment. Then I received a SnapChat message from Maddox. 【Don’t mess around.】 My heart ached, but I hadn’t done anything wrong. Maddox was gone for two days, and Tessa also took leave. To facilitate communication about her condition, I had added Tessa on SnapChat. So, these past few days, I saw a very different Maddox in her posts. Maddox, with eyes crinkled in tenderness, full of affection. Maddox, personally cooking meals. Maddox, holding Tessa and coaxing her to sleep… Love and lack of love were shockingly obvious. I couldn’t bear to look anymore. These two days, I went for my prenatal check-up alone. The embryo was developing well, which was good news. The doctor, seeing my gloom, advised me to keep my spirits up, so I simply deleted Tessa from my contacts. I didn’t let myself be idle. Using these two days, I contacted an agent and settled on a small house with a yard in a riverside town in the south. Once my mother recovered from surgery, it would be the perfect place for her to recuperate, and I also needed to thoroughly leave this place filled with painful memories. I started packing my things, only to find there wasn’t much I needed to take. My suitcase lay open on the floor. I was folding the last few frequently worn clothes to put inside when the bedroom door was gently pushed open. Maddox stood at the doorway, a hint of tiredness on his face, but his eyes weren’t as cold as usual. He held a beautifully wrapped small gift box and clearly froze when he saw the suitcase in the room. He pulled out his phone and typed: 【Going to the hospital again?】 I zipped up my suitcase, not looking at him, only giving a soft “hmm.” I didn’t want to explain further, nor was there any need. After all, Maddox hadn’t explained his relationship with Tessa to me either. Maddox was silent for a moment, then his fingers tapped on the screen again. 【Tomorrow is our three-year wedding anniversary.】 The words on the screen were clear: 【Shall we… go out for dinner?】 I was completely stunned, looking up at him with some disbelief. I thought he didn’t even remember the date. For the past two years, this day had always passed as silently as any other ordinary day, even more desolate than usual. I instinctively wanted to refuse. Our marriage was just a divorce agreement nearing its expiry; what was there to celebrate? But the words caught in my throat, because I caught a glimpse of a cautious expectation in the man’s eyes. My heart, after all, softened a little. This marriage was about to end. It was better to part on good terms. Consider it a dignified end to these absurd three years, and a complete farewell to the me who had once loved him with all her might. I lowered my eyelashes, hiding the turbulent emotions in my eyes, and replied, “Okay.”

Jessica’s POV On our anniversary, Maddox, uncharacteristically, arranged for a stylist to come to the house. When I appeared before him, dressed up, I had a fleeting illusion that I caught a trace of fleeting amazement in his eyes. We went to the restaurant together. After we were seated, I was surprised to find that the dishes Maddox had ordered in advance were all my preferred flavors, a few of which I had only mentioned casually. Then, he took out the small gift box, opened it, and inside was a bracelet I had seen in a store and really liked. It was a couple’s item, but Maddox wouldn’t wear one with me, so I had only taken a photo and posted it on Ins. I hadn’t expected him to specifically buy it for me. 【It’s been hard on you these past few years. I actually noticed it all.】 Another line appeared on the screen. His gaze was on my face, with a gentle warmth I’d never seen before. At that moment, my heart uncontrollably stirred slightly. My nose pricked, and I quickly lowered my head, afraid the tears would fall. Even though I had resolved to leave, the softest spot in my heart was still deeply touched. Amidst the dramatic emotional fluctuations, the symptoms of early pregnancy unseasonably surged, and I couldn’t help but turn aside, covering my mouth and dry heaving twice. Maddox frowned slightly, typing to ask: 【Feeling unwell? What’s wrong?】 I hesitated repeatedly. The warmth of the whole day gave me some courage. I wanted to try one more time. “Actually, I’m pregna—” My phone rang, cutting off my words. Maddox glanced at the caller ID; his face subtly changed. It was Tessa. He immediately answered. From the other end of the line, Tessa’s frantic sobs could be vaguely heard, even by me: “Maddox, come to the hospital quickly…” The voice on the other end ceased abruptly as Maddox’s phone automatically shut off. He urgently rose, not even bothering to tell me where he was going, and hurriedly drove away. Looking at the almost untouched food on the table and the empty seat opposite, I gave a bitter laugh. My husband had abandoned me here because of a phone call from another woman. I had lost my appetite and planned to get up to pay the bill, when several menacing-looking waiters suddenly surrounded me. Without a word, they forcibly dragged me to the back kitchen, using brute force to make me kneel. “What do you want? What you’re doing is illegal!” I shouted in panic, but they were unmoved. One of them slapped me across the face. “Who told you to upset Miss Tessa? Mr. Miller booked the entire place today, no one else will come, so you can just take your punishment here.” “Maddox conspired with you? That’s impossible!” The other person sneered. “What’s impossible? Miss Tessa is Mr. Miller’s true love.” My face stung terribly, but it was nothing compared to the heartache. But I didn’t even have a chance to cry out in pain. Slap after slap rained down. At first, I had the strength to resist, but gradually my vision blurred, and my ears buzzed until I heard nothing. I don’t know how many times I was slapped. My entire face was numb before these people finally stopped. “It’s your honor, you and your mother’s cheap lives paving the way for Miss Tessa. Next time, remember to be smarter.” They tossed me out the door like a dead dog. My head spun, and I lay on the ground, unable to move for a while. After a long time, the sky began to rain. Cold raindrops struck my swollen face, finally clearing my head a little. I took out my phone to call the police, only to find over a dozen missed calls on the screen. As soon as I unlocked it, the phone rang again. “Is this Ms. Jessica? Your mother suffered a sudden massive hemorrhage during surgery and is currently in critical condition. Please come to the hospital as soon as possible.” I couldn’t hear anything clearly, but the sudden surge of dread made me rush to the hospital without regard for anything else. The rain was too heavy. I couldn’t get a cab. Dragging my injured body, I walked for an unknown distance before finally losing consciousness.

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It was the fifth year of my marriage to Victoria, and the news of her affair had just broken, spreading like wildfire. To shield Tristan from being branded as the “other man,” Victoria came to me with divorce papers. “Professor Evans helped me back then,” she said, her voice firm, “I can’t let his son become a homewrecker.” All these years, Tristan was always Victoria’s first priority. In my past life, when I heard those words, I had a complete meltdown, refusing to divorce her. But she directly orchestrated a scheme, framing me for cheating, and then filed for divorce. That was when I finally understood that I could never compare to a debt of gratitude. In utter despair, I took my own life. When I opened my eyes again, I signed those divorce papers without a second thought. “Julian, once this blows over, can we get back together?” I was sitting in the villa garden, lost in thought, when Victoria arrived with Tristan. Just three hours earlier, paparazzi had exposed Tristan as Victoria’s lover. The entire internet was furious, calling him the third party who shattered our marriage. Victoria’s “devoted wife” image had crumbled, and her company’s stock price was plummeting. In my past life, when Victoria presented those papers, I had ripped out every rose she’d planted for me, madly questioning her relationship with Tristan. He was merely the son of her mentor; there were countless other ways to resolve this. But she chose to sacrifice me, all to prevent Tristan’s depression from worsening. She never knew that during that same period, I, too, had been diagnosed with moderate depression. “Julian,” Victoria called my name again. I lowered my gaze to the divorce papers on the stone table. She knelt, looking me in the eye, and reached out to hold my hand. Her tone was coaxing. “Julian, just for me, please?” “We can tell everyone our marriage was over a year ago, that we wanted to separate but hadn’t found the right time to announce it publicly.” I remained silent. Behind her, Tristan, in his thin clothes, had pale lips and red-rimmed eyes. “Julian, please, help me, okay?” “My mom committed suicide because of cyberbullying-induced depression. I don’t want to follow in her footsteps. I’m begging you, please…” He made to kneel, but Victoria immediately rose and pulled him up, shielding him behind her. Her face darkened, and she snapped in a low voice, “What are you doing?” Tristan choked, his voice trembling, tears welling as he lowered his head. “I… I just wanted to make him feel better.” Victoria’s brows furrowed instantly. When she looked at me, that hint of gentleness in her eyes completely vanished. “Julian, I’m not here to negotiate.” “This is already decided. If you don’t divorce me, then don’t blame me for—” I met her gaze, and her words died on her lips. But I knew what she was going to say. She would have said, “Julian, you know what I’m capable of. I have plenty of ways to make you sign.” “If you force this to court, you won’t win against my legal team.” Those were her exact words in my past life. Later, I was framed, waking up in bed with other women, with irrefutable proof of my “infidelity.” Overnight, I became the cheating one, enduring endless scorn. She and Tristan, ironically, became the victims. “I’ll sign,” I said after a long silence, “but you have to promise me one thing.”

Victoria glanced at me, then nodded in agreement. She handed me the pen. I took it, my expression unreadable, and signed my name. “Aren’t you going to read the agreement?” Victoria asked, frowning. I smiled faintly. “No need.” She was practically walking away with nothing, signing over all our assets to me—all for Tristan, to repay a debt of gratitude. “Let’s go to the registry office tomorrow.” “Okay,” I said. Victoria’s hand, holding the signed agreement, paused. She looked at me with a hint of bewilderment but ultimately said nothing. As they left, Tristan looked back, a sneer on his face, and mouthed silently, “You lost.” I certainly had lost. I’d lost my entire life. That’s why this time, I refused to lose again. A moment later, my phone lit up with a SnapChat message from Victoria. Victoria: You went through a lot today, Julian. I’m sorry. Victoria: Once this is over, I’ll give you another wedding. We’ll get back together. Victoria: I can’t just watch Tristan’s depression worsen. You understand, right? I stared at the message and couldn’t help but laugh, tears welling in my eyes. It was the same in my past life. To pressure me into divorce, Victoria had gotten advice from friends and drank herself into a stupor. But she forgot that her friends were my friends too. Harper, while urging Victoria not to ruin our marriage for Tristan, also came to me, asking for my understanding, claiming Victoria was just “exceptionally loyal.” She said that if Tristan’s father hadn’t recognized Victoria’s talent back then, investing in her and helping her start her company, Victoria wouldn’t be where she was today. I had cried back then, arguing, “She had countless ways to clarify the situation, why did she have to divorce me?” Harper fell silent. She had asked Victoria, who replied, “Someone has to be hurt. I can only make Julian suffer. He loves me; he’ll understand.” Because I loved her, I was expendable. What kind of logic was that? Luckily, I had another chance.

When it came to Tristan, Victoria always moved fast. We’d barely signed the papers in the morning when she arranged a press conference for the evening, having her assistant invite me to attend and clarify the situation. I didn’t say anything. The assistant, assuming I would refuse, relayed Victoria’s message. He said, “Mr. Sterling, you really should attend this press conference. If not for Ms. Dawson, then for your own reputation.” I paused for a second, then scoffed. Victoria was threatening me. She wanted to use the same old tactics from my past life, to slander my name, crush me with public opinion, and force me to surrender. I could never understand, did Victoria see me as a partner or an enemy? Now she wanted to publicly clarify our relationship. I wouldn’t shy away. The press conference was held in the city’s most exclusive hotel ballroom, attended by all the major media outlets. When Tristan, dressed in a suit, appeared alongside Victoria, reporters immediately swarmed them. Victoria instinctively shielded him, smiling as she deflected microphones. “Please wait, I’ll answer all your questions.” “Could you please make way?” Her voice was gentle. She looked up, meeting my eyes, as I too was surrounded. For a moment, I actually hoped she’d help me out of the crowd. But the next second, she subtly shifted her gaze, a smile on her lips, and led Tristan onto the stage, as if she hadn’t seen me at all. I gave a self-mocking twist of my lips. The closest reporter, who looked like an intern, timidly held out a microphone and asked, “Mr. Sterling, are you really divorcing Ms. Dawson?” “Yes,” I replied, looking up with a smile and a nod. The intern pushed up his glasses. “But you and Ms. Dawson met in high school, dated for seven years, and have been married for five.” “Last month, Ms. Dawson even bought an island and named it after you.” I continued to smile, though the warmth didn’t reach my eyes. “That’s what she owed me.” To care for the ailing Tristan, she had missed my birthday. The island was her belated apology. In my past life, I’d been proud of it, only to later learn it was Harper’s idea, and Victoria’s assistant had picked the island. Victoria didn’t even know where it was. “So, do you still love Ms. Dawson?” She looked at me anxiously. The surrounding reporters fell silent, even Victoria on stage looked over. Her brow furrowed slightly. I simply met her gaze, a slight curve to my lips, and clearly stated:”No, I don’t.”

I didn’t stay until the end of the interview. After Victoria clarified that my marriage to her had been effectively over for a year, I left. Overnight, I became Victoria’s discarded project, a broken thing. Tristan, however, emerged as the sole innocent victim of the public scrutiny. That interview remained pinned on social media for days, the topic’s heat never fading. Especially Victoria’s statement: “Julian and I had been planning to divorce for over a year, but the timing wasn’t right. We intended to handle it discreetly, but now that it’s affecting an innocent person, we have no choice but to clarify publicly. Tristan is not the third party in our broken relationship. He is the only remaining connection my mentor has in this world. My care for him is understandable; I hope everyone can view this rationally.” Some fans were swayed, claiming our relationship fell apart because I was overly suspicious and jealous, viewing pure friendship and gratitude as something dirty. They also said I wasn’t broad-minded enough, learning nothing of Victoria’s loyalty and sincerity in five years of marriage. The topic festered for days. I became the public’s punching bag. As I walked out of the city hall with the divorce papers, Victoria called out to me. “Don’t take what’s on the internet to heart, Julian. New hot topics will quickly overshadow it.” I stopped, unable to resist a light laugh. How could the distinction be so vast when both of us were being attacked on social media? “Julian, Christmas is only two months away.” “In spring, we can start over, okay?” She looked at me, and as she began to approach, I took a step back, turning my gaze to the paparazzi being held back by security nearby. Victoria also realized the impropriety and stopped. “Victoria,” I said, “I’m going back to Vancouver.” She nodded. “You haven’t been back in a long time. It’s good to stay there for a while. I’ll pick you up for Christmas—” “I’m not coming back,” I calmly interrupted her. The smile on her face froze, confusion in her eyes. “The condition you promised me when I agreed to sign the papers,” I continued, “it’s time to fulfill it.” Victoria stared at me blankly. When I first reborn, it only took me a few seconds to process my love and hatred for her. Seeing the divorce papers, I had thought about tearing them up and making a huge scene again, but ultimately, rationality prevailed. After a long moment, I curved my lips into a smile. “Victoria, I want you to disappear from my life forever.”

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After I got my year-end bonus, I splurged $10,000 on a wallet for my boyfriend. I never expected that the very next day, he’d list it online for sale. I immediately bought the wallet myself, then dialed his number: “Sweetheart, are you happy with the New Year’s gift I got you?” Nealon’s voice was cold. “That wallet? Yeah, I already got it.” I smiled. “That wallet? Oh, that was just the wrapping. The real gift was the watch I hid inside, worth $100,000. Didn’t you see it?” I was browsing Amazon’s second-hand marketplace one weekend when a listing from a local seller popped up. [Handmade Italian leather wallet, only $2000!] My eyes zeroed in on the text, and I froze for a full two seconds. The wallet had my boyfriend’s initials embroidered on it. There was no way anyone else would have an identical wallet, especially with that embroidery. I clicked into the seller’s profile. The IP address showed the seller was in the same state as me. I sat there in stunned silence for a moment, then clicked open the private chat. “Hi, is the wallet still available? Is it authentic? Why is it so cheap?” The reply was instant: “Don’t worry, it’s absolutely authentic. A friend gave it to me, but honestly, the color just isn’t my style, so I’m letting it go cheap.” Right after that, he sent over a photo of a custom order receipt from an Italian designer. It was Nealon, alright. I was the one who’d sent him that very receipt. My fingers went stiff. I took a deep, shaky breath and clicked into his Amazon seller profile, scrolling down. In the six months we’d been together, almost everything I’d ever given him was listed there. The headphones I bought him a month into our relationship, priced at $400. The game console for our 100-day anniversary, priced at $500. The latest model tablet I got him recently because he said he needed it for a project, priced at $800. Every single one of them was marked ‘Sold’. And a scarf. I’d knitted it for him myself last winter, pricking my fingers countless times. He’d hugged me then, promising to wear it forever. Now, it was listed for $50 with free shipping. The description even said: ‘Gift from a friend, not my style, never used.’ Staring at that line, a wave of nausea suddenly hit me. After we got together, Nealon’s requests for gifts were ridiculously frequent. Every time, he had a reason. Our one-month anniversary, our 100-day anniversary, his birthday, his thesis proposal approval… And every time, I bought him something. I’d been working for two years, while he was still in grad school. I figured he had no income, so I tried my best to keep him from spending money. So, even if his return gifts were just snack gift boxes worth a few tens of dollars or cheap little trinkets, I never said a word. I thought I was being understanding. Now, I saw that in his eyes, I was nothing more than a human ATM. Just then, another message popped up in the chat. “Hello? Still interested? If you’re serious, I can knock a bit more off the price. I can ship it today.”

I stared at the message, a storm of emotions churning inside me. Should I just expose him now, break up, and kick him to the curb? That would be letting him off too easy. After a moment of thought, I exited the chat and changed the shipping address to my best friend Chloe’s apartment complex. Once confirmed, I hit ‘Buy Now’. The moment the payment went through, a new message instantly popped up in the backend. “Wow, you’re quick! I see you’re local, so I’ll send it via courier right now! Please confirm receipt as soon as possible after you get it, I really need the money!” I stared at the text and replied: “Okay, send it.” An hour later, I picked up the package at Chloe’s place. The wallet was brand new, the seal perfectly intact. The special greeting card I’d specifically asked the official website to add was still tucked into the side seam. He hadn’t even bothered to open it. “Isn’t that the wallet you gave Nealon?” Chloe peered over my shoulder, frowning. “What’s going on?” I handed her my phone, letting her scroll through the Amazon records herself. Chloe flipped through a couple of pages, her face growing colder and colder. “That jerk!” She gritted her teeth. “What are you going to do now? Go straight to his school and slap him?” I shook my head. “That’s too boring.” If he dared to cash in on my gifts, I’d make him pay dearly! No sooner had the words left my mouth than another message popped up on the Amazon backend. “Hey, the courier says it’s signed for. Can you confirm receipt? I really need the money over here, waiting to buy a birthday present for my girlfriend.” My movements paused. Girlfriend? My birthday was in October, and it was only March. Which girlfriend was he buying a gift for? Chloe saw it too and let out a cold laugh. “Looks like this scumbag isn’t just using you as an ATM, he’s cheating too! What a pig!” I didn’t say anything, just clicked ‘Confirm Receipt’. The instant the money went through, I picked up a small knife from Chloe’s fruit bowl and gently made a cut on the wallet. Then I took a photo and sent it to Nealon’s Amazon account: “Hi, I just opened the outer packaging and found some damage here.” Nealon immediately blew up: “No way, listen, lady, it was perfectly fine when I handed it to the courier! The packaging wasn’t torn at all! You must have damaged it yourself, right?” “You didn’t inspect it on the spot and only mentioned a problem after signing for it. Who knows if you scratched it yourself? Trying to pull a fast one? No chance!” “You’ve already confirmed receipt! Now whether the item is good or bad has nothing to do with me! Don’t even think about scamming me!” With that, he blocked me before I could reply. I suddenly smiled. That’s exactly the guarantee I was waiting for. Whether the item was good or bad, it had nothing to do with him. I switched back to SnapChat and immediately called Nealon. He answered, his voice laced with a smile. “Honey, why the sudden call? Missing me already?” I replied: “Yeah, I wanted to ask you, did you get the wallet?” The other end of the line went quiet for a moment. “I did,” his tone was a little unnatural. “But babe, this wallet, actually, I don’t really like it. The color is a bit outdated.” “Oh? Why?” “Nowadays, young people don’t really use wallets that much.” He paused, then his tone softened deliberately. “I know you meant well, but this wallet really isn’t quite my style.” I curved my lips into a small smile. “Is that so? Well, I guess I’ll just give it to a colleague then. I actually forgot to buy a New Year’s gift for one of them.”

“Don’t!” he cut me off urgently. “Let’s not do that.” “But you don’t like it, right?” I feigned surprise. “I like all the gifts you give me.” His words rushed out. “Besides, how can you give a gift you gave me to someone else?” “You make a good point.” “Exactly,” his tone returned to calm, even taking on a slightly lecturing quality. “Aurora, don’t get me things like that anymore. I’m about to start working. If you really want to get me something, why not buy something practical?” “Like what?” “Like a watch, for example. Or a car would be nice too. Those are more fitting for my status, and they’d make a good impression when meeting clients.” I almost crushed my phone. He was still a student, barely out of college, and he was talking to me about ‘status’ and ‘making a good impression’? No wonder he thought the wallet I gave him wasn’t good enough. Turns out, he wanted something much more expensive. I suddenly remembered that three days ago, when I sent him the order screenshot, he’d only replied with “Oh.” At the time, I figured he was just busy, which was why he hadn’t seemed excited. Now I realized he was probably just too disappointed to even bother faking it. “You’re right,” I slowly said. “I also think that since you’re about to start working, you need some items that suit a mature man.” Nealon immediately brightened. “Right? You think so too? I actually saw a Longines watch I really like, it’s about $3,000. If you…” I cut him off. “So, I actually tucked a watch inside that wallet. A classic Patek Philippe. Didn’t you see it?” The other end of the line instantly fell silent. All I could hear was his increasingly rapid breathing. A few seconds later, Nealon’s voice changed completely. “What?” “A Patek Philippe,” I said innocently. “It was just in the wallet’s inner compartment, wrapped in velvet cloth. Didn’t you open it? There was even a handwritten letter from me inside.” “I…” he stammered. “You put a watch inside the wallet?” “Yeah,” I sighed. “I was just worried the wallet wasn’t expensive enough to express my love for you. So I bought an expensive watch.” From his end of the line, I heard a dull thud, like a fist slamming against a table. Immediately followed by a girl’s muffled, petulant voice: “What are you doing? Why are you so angry…” Nealon’s voice was also lowered, urgent and irritable. “It’s all because you wanted a necklace! Otherwise, why would I have been in such a rush to sell the wallet! Now look! I lost a fortune!” The girl huffed. “I told you, that wallet was handmade, it could even appreciate in value if you waited. You’re the one who insisted on selling it…” “If I don’t sell it now, how will I get it for your birthday!” I pretended not to hear their whispers and asked with concern: “Nealon? What’s wrong?” “Nothing,” his voice was dry. “Aurora, how much did you say that watch was?” “About $100,000,” I said lightly. “I was originally planning to get a new car, but then I thought, you’d need a good watch more for your internship and job interviews to make an impression, so I bought it.” “$100,000?” His voice started to tremble. “Where did you get that much money?” “My year-end bonus,” I said, pretending to be wronged. “I did really well on my projects this year, and my bonus was $90,000, so I bought you a watch.” “You…” He took a sharp breath. “Why didn’t you say so earlier!” “I wanted to surprise you,” I paused, suddenly sounding nervous. “Why do you ask? Is the watch missing?” “I… I might not have noticed…” he stammered incoherently. “I haven’t looked closely at the wallet yet…” “Go look for it!” I urged. “I bought a handmade custom one, even second-hand it’s worth $80,000! If it’s lost, I’ll be absolutely devastated!” Saying that, I sent Nealon the actual watch photo and the store receipt. “See? This style really suits you. It might look a bit mature, but you can wear it for years.”

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My Ex-Fiancé Wants to Break Up: “I’m marrying Scarlett Sterling, the real heiress of the Sterling family! You? You’re just our charity case, fit only to be my mistress!” The so-called ‘true heiress,’ Scarlett Sterling, scoffed. “Oh, I’ve seen countless cheap gold-diggers like her, thinking a pretty face is all it takes to reel in the master of the house…” I just smiled. He had no idea. I was the true Sterling heiress. And what’s more, I was marrying his uncle, Foster Reed, the CEO of Reed Industries. When I brought up our engagement to Blake, he absolutely lost it, tearing the marriage contract to shreds like a maniac. I frowned. “That marriage contract isn’t for you…” Blake Reed cut me off, as if I’d said something hilarious. “Autumn Reed, know your place! ‘Adopted daughter’ is just a pretty word for the pet I kept around for fun!” “I was young and naive back then when I talked about proposing to you. But we’re not kids anymore. My status won’t allow me to marry a woman as low-class as you!” He reached out and tilted my chin up. “Scarlett, the Sterling family’s true heiress, will be here any minute. I don’t want to hear any intimate rumors about us, understand?” The moment he finished speaking, a spoiled voice echoed from the doorway. “Blake, who is she?” The aggressive Blake instantly changed his expression. “Just a disobedient servant from my house. Scarlett, why didn’t you wait for me to pick you up?” Scarlett tossed her bag into his arms and sneered, “Disobedient servants need to be disciplined! I’ve seen countless cheap whores like her, relying on a bit of pretty face to seduce their master…” She circled me once, then suddenly yanked hard on the necklace my mother had personally given me. “This necklace is only for a Sterling daughter! Where did you steal it from? Tell me!” Her pull hurt, so I yanked her hand away. “My parents gave it to me, Scarlett, I’m your— Ah!” Before I could even say ‘sister,’ someone brutally kicked the back of my knee, sending me crashing to the floor with a cry of pain. My knee slammed hard against the floor, and a searing pain shot through an old injury. The Reed family’s punishments were brutal. When Blake was a kid and acted up, I always took the fall for him. Over time, that spot on my knee had become a chronic injury. Blake pulled his foot back and ground it into the floor, as if wiping off something dirty. “Autumn Reed, I wondered where you’d vanished to this morning! Turns out you were busy playing thief!” “Who do you think you are? The Sterling family’s only daughter is right here!” Scarlett’s smile stiffened, then she haughtily tilted her head. “Blake, your servant here must be a thief. Her clothes are designer, too! Way beyond the means of someone from her background!” Blake seemed to remember something, and his face instantly turned ashen. “Tell me! Which man did you go meet? You haven’t changed your old habits at all, have you?!” “You slut! It’s not like we don’t give you money! Do you have to sell yourself out there?” I trembled with rage, the nightmare of my teenage years resurfacing. When I was a teenager, I was constantly harassed by boys because I was pretty. Rumors even spread at the elite private school that I’d sleep with anyone for money. Blake beat up the worst offenders back then, and they stayed quiet for a bit, but then the rumors started again. Even Blake hesitated that time, until Foster, the company’s CEO, stepped in and called the police on the rumormongers. “Blake! How could you say something like that?! Don’t you know I’m your—” Blake, with lightning speed, grabbed a napkin from the table and shoved it into my mouth. The Reed family’s security guards rushed in and immediately pinned me to the floor. “Blake, she said she was your what? You don’t have a mistress behind my back, do you?” Scarlett frowned, her expression hostile. “Of course not! How could I possibly fall for such a low-class woman? She’s just trying to climb up the ladder. Scarlett, please don’t be mad, I’ll throw her out right now…” Blake tried to appease her with a forced smile, about to order the guards, when Mrs. Reed suddenly appeared at the top of the stairs. “What’s all this noise? What’s going on?” “Where’s Autumn?”

Blake instinctively stepped in front of me. “It’s nothing, Mom, I’m just disciplining a servant.” Mrs. Reed frowned. “Hurry and take care of it. When Autumn arrives, escort her directly to my study. I still need to set a date with her for the wedding…” “Mom! I’m not marrying Autumn Reed!” Blake was furious. “Didn’t we already agree? Scarlett is the one I’m marrying!” Scarlett immediately tilted her chin up haughtily. “Exactly. I’m a Sterling, not some cheap nobody you can compare to me!” Mrs. Reed’s frown deepened. “Shut up! Blake, how dare you talk about Autumn like that!” “And you, Scarlett Sterling, even if the engagement has been changed, don’t get ahead of yourself!” Blake waved his hand dismissively. “Mom! I know you raised Autumn for eighteen years, and even a dog would develop feelings, but at the end of the day, she’s just a low-class adopted girl!” “Scarlett is the only daughter of the Sterling family! With the Sterlings backing me, once I’m the heir, we won’t have to grovel to Uncle Foster ever again!” The moment the words left his mouth, Mrs. Reed’s face paled dramatically. Before Blake could react, Mrs. Reed rushed downstairs and slapped him hard. “Shut up! Our whole family relies on him, have you forgotten? And your uncle is about to marry Pearl Sterling!” I seized the chance and struggled with all my might, finally pushing away one of the security guards. Mrs. Reed, who had been furious a moment ago, saw me with my hair disheveled and my face contorted in pain. Her expression instantly changed. “Autumn? What happened?! Let go of her!” Mrs. Reed panicked. She immediately ripped the cloth from my mouth and helped me up. Blake, still angry, said, “Who’s Pearl Sterling in the Sterling family, Mom? Have you lost your mind—” He had no idea that Pearl Sterling was the name my real parents had picked for me when I returned home. I forced a smile, about to tell him, but the old injury on my knee flared up, an excruciating pain that almost choked off my voice. “You idiot! Of course, there’s a Pearl Sterling in the family! She’s the future lady of the house!” Mrs. Reed no longer bothered with her stupid son. She quickly contacted the family doctor and had me moved to the treatment room. Mrs. Reed stood by my bedside, a forced smile plastered on her face, cautiously handing me a list and a ruby ring—Foster’s engagement token. “Autumn, Foster has set the wedding date for three days from now. That jerk Blake is being impossible, I’ll make sure he—” Her words were cut short by Blake bursting in. “Mom! How long are you going to keep favoring Autumn Reed?! Scarlett is going to be your daughter-in-law!” With a slam, he slapped a pregnancy test with two lines onto my bedside table. “Scarlett just took it. You’re going to be a grandma!” “Scarlett Sterling’s parents love children. Once Scarlett has the baby, they’ll definitely help me out!” I watched him coldly. My parents did love children, but they would only love their own children. If this had happened before I returned to my real family, maybe his plan would have worked. Seeing the pregnancy test, Mrs. Reed’s expression went from surprise to alarm, then she cautiously looked at me. “Autumn, what do you think about this child?” I’d taken pain medication, and my voice was hoarse. “Is getting pregnant out of wedlock something to brag about?” I’d meant for them to just get married already, but Blake completely misunderstood, pointing at me and shouting. “Autumn Reed! If you’d just been a good, obedient girl, I might have even allowed you to be a nanny for my son!” “But it’s too late now! I’m kicking you out today!” “Mom, you don’t have to worry about Scarlett leaving me. With a baby, she’ll definitely marry me. Soon, the Reed and Sterling families will all be mine!” I just glared at him, coldly. “You don’t deserve it!” I turned to Mrs. Reed, whose face was pale with fright from Blake’s outburst. “Don’t call me Autumn anymore. Call me by my real name.” Each word was a cold, hard stone. “Call me Pearl Sterling.”

“Pearl Sterling?” Blake’s eyes darted around, then he suddenly bowed to me. “I-I’m so sorry, so sorry, I had no idea…” Mrs. Reed let out a sigh of relief. Just then, her phone rang. “Pearl, I still have to prepare for the wedding. If you need anything, just ask Blake.” Mrs. Reed probably figured we’d known each other for eighteen years, and now that Blake knew my real identity, he wouldn’t dare pull anything stupid. With that, she left, apparently reassured. The moment Mrs. Reed was out the door, Blake’s entire demeanor changed. He pressed down hard on my injured knee, making me shriek. “Having fun, Autumn Reed? I don’t know how you managed to sweet-talk my mom into treating you like royalty…” “And you dare impersonate the Sterling family’s true heiress? If my family hadn’t adopted you, you’d still be begging on the streets!” Scarlett walked in, cradling her belly and pouting. “Blake! Why is a servant living in such a nice room? And she stole my family’s necklace!” “Are you going to let her walk all over me? You should call the police and have her thrown in jail for a few years! Even your mom won’t be able to save her then!” Blake quickly rushed to comfort her. “Of course not, darling! You’re a Sterling. I’ll do whatever you say. I’ve already called the police!” “Let me tell you something hilarious. She just said her name was Pearl Sterling! How ridiculous. The Sterling family is way out of her league. She’s just a servant my mom brought back to serve me…” He laughed at his own joke, failing to notice that Scarlett, who had been so arrogant moments before, had gone completely pale. “Blake, she really is just your family’s servant, right?” I was about to say something when Blake, with lightning speed, brutally brought his fist down on my kneecap. I even heard a sickening crack, and my body instantly went limp. “Of course she is, Scarlett. We’re getting married. Why would I lie to you? My mom is already making all the arrangements!” While Scarlett bashfully looked down, Blake leaned close to my ear, his teeth gritted. “I warned you not to mention our relationship in front of Scarlett.” “Enjoy your few years in prison. I know you didn’t steal it; the necklace is a fake, isn’t it? But why would you fake hers? You shouldn’t have…” “She’s the Sterling heiress. Even if you copy her necklace, you’re still just a cheap, low-class fake!” As he spoke, he noticed the gift list in my hand. “Scarlett! Come here, look! This is the gift list my mom drafted. The wedding is in three days… In three days, you’ll be my wife!” Scarlett’s eyes widened. “Ten mansions, half the shares of all Reed Industries’ properties… That’s so much!” It wasn’t just Scarlett who was shocked; I was stunned too. I hadn’t looked closely when Mrs. Reed gave me the list, but Foster had incredible nerve—he was practically giving me half of the entire Reed family fortune. The funniest part was Blake thought it was all for him. “Of course, marrying you means a powerful alliance between our two families! Soon, Reed and Sterling will all belong to our son!” Blake boasted, completely oblivious. “You’re so good to me, darling. Why aren’t the police here yet? I don’t want to see this cheap woman!” I’d barely recovered some strength when I saw them flaunting their affection. I suddenly gagged. Let them call the police. When my real parents came to the station to pick me up, everything would be revealed. Just then, the police burst through the door. “Who called this in?” Blake dragged me from the bed. “It was her! This is our servant. She stole a huge amount of valuables from my fiancée!” The ruby ring on my hand slipped, revealing Foster’s name engraved on it. Blake’s pupils constricted, his expression wavering in disbelief. “Isn’t that Uncle Foster’s token? He said it was only for his future wife…”

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Suddenly, a death countdown appeared on the back of every human’s hand worldwide. My husband, Derek, had one year left. His ex-girlfriend, Valentina, had only one day. Derek knelt at my feet, tears streaming down his face. “Ayla! You have sixty years! What’s the big deal about sharing a little with her?!” I stayed silent. The next second, he and Valentina pounced on me like rabid animals, pinning me down! A cold device pierced my wrist—an illegal time transfer apparatus. I watched helplessly as the numbers representing my life plummeted wildly: Sixty years, fifty years, ten years, one year, until only one day remained. They were ecstatic, tears of joy streaming down their faces. But I just shook my head, a small, knowing smile playing on my lips. We elves have infinite lifespans. This death countdown? It meant nothing to me. Derek pulled me up from the ground, his face still wet with tears. “Ayla, I’m so sorry… but I can’t let Valentina die…” Valentina stood beside him. She lowered her head, gazing at the brand new numbers on the back of her hand: 60 years and seven hours. “Ayla,” Valentina said triumphantly, her voice dripping with malice. “Don’t worry, I’ll take good care of your husband from now on.” Derek nodded vigorously, fresh tears welling up in his eyes. They had no idea. I was an elf; my life had no end. That glaring “60 years and seven hours” on Valentina’s hand was nothing but an illusion. Humans simply couldn’t steal an elf’s lifespan. Derek looked at me, his face clouded with guilt. “You only have a few hours left. Do you have any last wishes? Tell me, Valentina and I will do everything we can to fulfill them. Anything.” “A divorce,” I said calmly. Derek froze, staring at me in disbelief. “No!” He shook his head violently. “Ayla! I won’t divorce you! You’re the one I love most!” I sighed. “Fine. No divorce then. Let’s try another wish.” Valentina looked up, curiosity in her eyes. “Ayla, if it’s something I can do, I promise I will.” “Simple,” I said, looking her straight in the eye. “Transfer thirty years of life to Derek.” The room fell silent again. Valentina stiffened, stammering, “Wh… what?” “The time you just stole.” I pointed at the back of her hand. “Transfer thirty years of it to Derek.” Derek looked at Valentina, clearly anticipating her choice. Valentina avoided his gaze. “Ayla, I just finished the transfer. My body is still a bit weak. How about… tomorrow?” Derek let out an awkward laugh. “No rush, Valentina will transfer it to me, don’t you worry!” Valentina nodded, quickly changing the subject. “Ayla, weren’t you always wanting to visit your hometown in Alaska? How about we drive you home?”

The car sped onto the highway. Valentina said we’d be there in an hour or two. Derek put his arm around my shoulder. “I owe Valentina. Years ago, she jumped into that freezing river to save me, almost drowned, and it left her unable to have children. I owe her everything.” “Hmm,” I hummed in response. Seeing my cold expression, Derek said nothing more. A while later, Valentina’s phone rang. She answered it immediately. “Hello? Liam?” I felt Derek’s hand on my shoulder instantly stiffen. “I just wanted to come see you. I have a surprise for you.” Valentina’s voice was sickeningly sweet. “Wait for me, I’m on my way to Alaska right now. Don’t be scared, I’ll transfer thirty years to you as soon as I get there…” After she hung up, Derek immediately asked her, “Who’s Liam?” Valentina’s grip on the steering wheel tightened. “Oh, just a college friend of mine. He’s pretty pathetic, only two years left on his countdown.” Valentina answered casually. “He was always good to me, so I want to help him.” Derek’s temper flared instantly. “You’re using my wife’s life to help your friend?!” Valentina snapped impatiently. “Derek! Why are you so nosy?!” She shot Derek a venomous glare through the rearview mirror. “I jumped into that river to save you back then, and it left me unable to have kids! This sixty years of time, you and your wife owe me!” She pointed at the glaring numbers on the back of her hand. “It’s my time! I have the right to do what I want with it! I’ll give it to whoever I please! You have no right to tell me what to do!” Derek’s body jolted, as if struck by an invisible whip. The color drained from his face, his lips trembled, and he finally lowered his head. “Got it.” Valentina scoffed, ignoring him, and slammed on the gas. The car accelerated. The only sounds in the car were the oppressive silence and the roar of the engine. After more than two hours of driving, the car finally reached the foot of the Alaskan mountains. “Get out!” Valentina’s voice was harsh. We got out of the car. I stood still, my gaze fixed on an inconspicuous gentle slope. Derek noticed my pause. “What’s wrong? Not feeling well?” he asked me. I shook my head, looking at the slope. “Nothing. Just remembering my childhood.” Valentina pulled out her phone. “Liam! We’re here. Tell me the exact location, I’ll find you!” She strode forward first, and Derek hesitated for a moment before following her. A little while later, Derek said to me, “I still have a year left. I’ll transfer half a year to you! No! I’ll transfer ten months. I don’t want you to die.” I looked into his eyes, seeing fear and regret there. I gently removed his hand from mine. “No need. Keep it for yourself.”

The mountain road was winding and rough. Valentina led the way, occasionally glancing at her phone to confirm the direction, grumbling about how difficult the path was. Derek followed silently, his gaze vacant. “This used to be a stargazing platform,” I said, pointing to a distant peak. “My father often brought me here to watch the stars.” Valentina scoffed. “Ayla, are you dying and having hallucinations? A stargazing platform in the middle of nowhere?” I couldn’t be bothered to explain to her. After all, she was the one who was dying soon. Suddenly, a handsome young man and an old man blocked our path. The young man was indeed the “Liam” Valentina had spoken of. Valentina’s eyes instantly lit up, and she ran towards him. “Liam! I’m here!” Liam looked up, and when he saw Valentina, his face was etched with clear disgust. “Valentina? You actually came? Didn’t I tell you not to?” He chided Valentina while massaging the old man. “Mr. Thorne, please don’t be angry.” “Mr. Thorne?” Valentina’s smile froze, as if she’d been struck by lightning. “What’s the relationship between this Mr. Thorne and Ayla?!” Liam looked at her coldly. “He is, of course, Ms. Ayla’s father, and also my superior.” Derek walked over to Liam’s side and asked Valentina, “You’re going to give your life to this man?” Valentina’s expression changed. She violently shoved Derek away, yelling, “Derek! Get lost! You’re so annoying!” Derek stumbled back, almost falling, staring at her in disbelief. Valentina glared viciously at Derek. “I told you, I’ll give my life to whoever I want!” Derek’s face instantly turned ashen, his body swayed, his eyes wide with shock. Valentina ignored him, eagerly trying to impress Liam. “Liam! Look! I have sixty years! I’ll transfer thirty years to you! No! All of it! As long as you…” Liam impatiently cut her off, raising his smooth hand, his tone laced with a hint of pride. “Save it. Who needs your stolen time?” The numbers on his hand were clearly visible: 102 years. “Mr. Thorne just transferred a hundred years to me, and he said if I keep his palace clean, he’ll give me even more later.” A hundred years?! Valentina looked like she’d been punched in the gut, her eyes bulging as she stared at the incredible numbers on Liam’s hand. She shrieked, “How is that possible?! He’s just an old man! Where did he get that much time?!” My father, however, smiled at Valentina. “Do you want more time too? Give me money, and I’ll sell it to you!”

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During a crucial meeting with a major client, I stepped out for a quick bathroom break. But Veronica, my fiancé Ryan’s secretary, saw it as an excuse to fire me. “This client is incredibly important! And you were in the bathroom for eight whole minutes! That’s disrespectful to our client! The company has to let you go!” I almost laughed. Didn’t she know today’s big client was my good friend? “I’m on my period today. I’ll explain it to the client. You don’t need to meddle.” I shook off her hand, intending to head back to the office. To my surprise, she was wearing ten-centimeter heels, lost her balance, and tumbled to the floor. She glared up at me. “How dare you push me? My dad is the CEO of Miller Corp, and I’ll have him fire you right now!” I froze. My useless dad… when did he suddenly get another daughter? I couldn’t believe Veronica was audacious enough to threaten to fire me, all because I spent eight minutes in the bathroom. What truly shocked me, though, was her brazen claim to be my father’s daughter, right in front of me! She was just a mere secretary; who gave her the guts to lie so openly? Yet, many employees who overheard Veronica exchanged uneasy glances and whispered among themselves. “No wonder Veronica became President Ryan’s secretary the moment she joined the company! She has connections!” “Miller Corp just became our biggest client. If we upset them, our company would go bankrupt in minutes. It’s perfectly normal for the Miller heiress to come to our small company for a ‘life experience’.” “VP Stella is in deep trouble this time!” “The Sales Manager merely argued with Veronica the other day, and President Ryan fired him instantly. That just shows how important Veronica is to President Ryan.” As everyone murmured, Veronica slowly got to her feet. She shot me a furious glare, her voice laced with menace. “Stella, I’m giving you one chance.” “If you get down on your knees and apologize to me, I’ll pretend this never happened…” Before she could finish, I cut her off impatiently. “If you’re not well, go get checked out. Don’t waste my time here. Move!” I was tired of dealing with her. My impression of Veronica was already terrible. Days ago, when I was away on a business trip, she’d just joined the company, and Ryan promoted her to his secretary that very day. I voiced my concerns, but Ryan just shrugged helplessly. “You’ll be away for about a week. I’m the only one left in charge here, and things are too much to handle. I temporarily made Veronica my secretary to help lighten the load.” “When you get back, if her work isn’t up to par, we can just find a new secretary, right?” Veronica’s behavior today practically screamed “arrogant and overbearing.” Someone like her absolutely couldn’t stay in the company. Good thing the executives were having a meeting today. I’d just announce her dismissal later. Lost in these thoughts, I reached out to push past Veronica, who was blocking the conference room door. But that’s when it happened. My hand hadn’t even touched her, when she let out a piercing shriek. At the same time, she wildly flailed her hand, and a sharp slap landed squarely on my face. Then, she dramatically stumbled against the conference room door, crashing to the floor inside. The entire performance made it look like I had violently shoved her into the room. I had to admit, Veronica was quite the actress. Playing the victim while simultaneously slapping me — it only strengthened my resolve to kick her out of the company. However, what unfolded next completely caught me off guard. The executives, who were mid-meeting, gasped, staring at me and Veronica on the floor with bewildered expressions. Ryan’s face contorted in a furious grimace. He lunged forward, and in a flash, slapped me across the face. I was stunned! Ryan and I had been together for years. This was the first time he’d ever laid a hand on me, and it was all because of another woman. His face etched with concern, Ryan tenderly helped the feigning, delicate Veronica to her feet, then turned to me, roaring: “Stella, what the hell is wrong with you?” “How dare you touch Veronica? Are you out of your mind?” “What are you waiting for? Get over here and grovel for an apology!” I stared at Ryan, incredulous. “Apologize for what?” I shot back. “Do you even know what just happened?” “Ryan, you just blindly hit me for her sake, you—” Before I could finish, Veronica, still feigning vulnerability, spoke to Ryan. “President Ryan, VP Stella was in the bathroom for eight minutes. I just told her about the company’s new policy, as you instructed, but she attacked me before I even finished.” “I know VP Stella doesn’t like me, but she can’t just violently assault me like this!” “My dad never even laid a hand on me growing up. If he finds out I was hit here, he’ll be furious!” Veronica’s last statement instantly made Ryan and the executives tense up. Ryan whirled on me, yelling: “Stella, I’m ordering you right now: apologize to Veronica immediately, or you can expect to be fired!”

The other executives quickly chimed in. “Stella, this is clearly your fault. Just swallow your pride and apologize. It’ll prevent unnecessary trouble.” “Veronica is the heiress to Miller Corp. She’s here for a ‘life experience.’ She’s a valuable asset to our company, we absolutely cannot afford to offend her.” “Stella, you’ve been away on a business trip for the past few days, so it’s understandable you don’t know Veronica’s identity. But you shouldn’t have gotten into a conflict with her the moment you returned! Apologize now before things escalate!” “If Mr. Miller finds out Veronica was bullied in our company, we’ll be in serious trouble!” I ignored the executives, who were worried about their own interests and pushing me to apologize. My gaze was fixed on Ryan. My voice filled with sorrow and indignation, I spoke. “You’re going to fire me?” Ryan and I had been together for five years. This company? I poured all my savings into starting it with him. My love life and my career—these past few years, everything had revolved around Ryan. I thought we’d walk down the aisle together, that we’d spend the rest of our lives in happiness. But now, I realized it was all just my wishful thinking! He slapped me for Veronica, and now he wants to fire me from the company? What does that say? It says I mean nothing to him! Five years of my youth, completely wasted. In this moment, I truly felt worthless. Seeing my eyes welling up, Veronica shot me a smug, taunting smile, then feigned sincerity. “It’s fine, Stella doesn’t need to get on her knees and apologize to me.” “I’m not the type to be overbearing. Just pour me a cup of tea and sincerely apologize in front of everyone, and that’ll be enough.” “I won’t tell my dad about this.” At her words, Ryan and the executives visibly relaxed. Then, Ryan glared at me. “What are you waiting for? Go and pour Veronica some tea and apologize!” I responded coldly. “What if I don’t apologize?” “Are you really going to fire me?” Seeing my refusal to back down, Ryan’s anger flared. He slammed his hand on the conference table, yelling at me: “Stella, do you really think I wouldn’t dare to fire you?” “Perfect. All our company executives are here today. Let’s take a vote.” “Raise your hand if you agree to fire Stella!” With that, Ryan was the first to raise his hand, without a hint of hesitation. The other executives exchanged glances, avoiding my gaze, and one by one, raised their hands. I smiled, a bitter, twisted smile. These executives… some I’d poached from other companies, some I’d personally promoted. And now, to protect their own interests, they didn’t hesitate to stab me in the back. My heart felt like it was being ripped apart, yet at the same time, I felt a strange sense of relief, of liberation. Actually, I had returned to the company today planning to take Ryan back to my family’s estate. A few days ago, while I was away, my dad had already rejoined the Miller family. I hadn’t been able to make it back in time. So, when I finally returned today, my first thought was to take Ryan to meet my family and formally introduce him to them. Now, it seemed, there was no longer any need! I took a deep breath, unpinned my company badge, tossed it on the floor, and turned to leave. This place, once a testament to so much of my hard work and devotion. Now? There was nothing left to cherish here. But Veronica wasn’t willing to let me leave so easily. She sneered. “VP Stella, did you forget something?” “Since you’ve been fired, shouldn’t your shares be returned to the company?” Before I could respond, Ryan nodded. “That’s right, I almost forgot about that!” “Stella, you can’t leave without handing over your company shares!” “I won’t let you leave empty-handed. I’ll give you a million dollars for your shares…” Ryan and Veronica’s words made me sick to my stomach. A million dollars for my shares? Ryan’s playing a smart game, isn’t he? Why had I never noticed what a despicable scumbag he was before?

I stared at Ryan with cold eyes, my face devoid of emotion. “When this company was founded, you didn’t put in a single cent. It was my family’s savings, over a million, that built the company’s framework.” “To cut costs, I personally paid out of pocket to take clients out, buy them gifts, and treat them to meals.” “To help us get through the toughest times, my parents worked three jobs a day, and every penny they earned went to support the company.” “The company’s market value has grown dozens of times since we started. I can’t claim all the credit, but at least half of the company’s success today is thanks to my family’s sacrifices.” “Now you’re not only firing me, but you want to buy my shares for a measly million dollars?” “Ryan, you can’t be this heartless!” My words made Ryan’s face flush. Perhaps feeling I had publicly shamed him, he glared at me in a fit of rage. “The company’s success today is entirely due to my brilliant foresight!” “Your family’s support back then was negligible.” “Fine, I’m done arguing with you. Two million for your shares, how about that?” With that, Ryan pulled out a share transfer agreement and tried to get me to sign it. Well, well, well. He’d even prepared the share transfer agreement in advance? Clearly, Ryan had been eyeing my shares for a while! Why would he do this? Soon, I understood. The beneficiary on the share transfer agreement wasn’t Ryan—it was Veronica! In that moment, everything clicked! No wonder Ryan’s attitude toward me had changed so drastically. He wanted to cozy up to Veronica, the fake heiress! I sneered at Ryan. “You’re quite generous, aren’t you?” “Transferring my shares to Veronica? Are you trying to butter up Miller Corp?” “Ryan, you’re usually so sharp, what’s gotten into you this time?” Ryan’s brows furrowed. He spoke in a low, stern voice. “What do you mean?” I took a deep breath, looking around the conference room at the executives with a mocking gaze, my tone full of disdain. “Veronica says she’s the Miller Corp heiress, and you all just believed her?” “Did any of you bother to verify that with Miller Corp?” “A bunch of fools, you’ve been scammed and you don’t even know it!” My words left the executives present utterly stunned. Ryan, however, snapped at me. “Stella, stop spouting nonsense!” “The day after Veronica started, Miller Corp signed a huge order with us, becoming our biggest client.” “If Veronica wasn’t the Miller Corp heiress, why would Miller Corp actively seek us out to sign orders?” “Watch your words. Slandering the Miller Corp heiress could land you in jail faster than you can blink. Miller Corp’s legal team is no joke.” Ryan’s words left me speechless. After my dad rejoined the Miller family, he specifically arranged for Miller Corp to sign cooperation orders with *this* company. What did that have to do with Veronica? If I hadn’t been working here, Miller Corp wouldn’t have given a second glance to this tiny company. Perhaps sensing the executives’ uneasy expressions, Veronica, desperate to prove herself, snorted at me. “Stella, someone of my status shouldn’t have to prove anything to you.” “However, to truly convince you, I’ll have my family come here right now, so you can see with your own eyes if I’m the real Miller heiress!” Her words made me pause. What gave her such confidence? Could it be… could she really be my dad’s secret daughter?

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The year I turned eighteen, I found out I was the real heiress to a powerful family. But even after my mother, Vivian, took me from the foster care system, she still loved the fake heiress, Amber, more. After I graduated college, I cut off contact with Vivian. That is, until she called me right before my wedding. “You always stole Amber’s things, but stealing her fiancé? That’s a new low!” I immediately pulled out my phone and saw a wedding photo Amber had posted. What a coincidence. The groom in the picture looked exactly like my fiancé. I stood outside Vivian’s house, knocking loudly. “I’m right outside. Open the door!” She flung the door open and immediately spat, “I advise you to just give up. I know you love competing with Amber, but the Shen family is far beyond the reach of a mere influencer like you.” I flashed the massive diamond ring on my finger. “Well, sorry to disappoint you. My husband is far more influential than any Shen heir. Frankly, I wouldn’t even look at him. My husband, Kamran, is a man of honor and values decorum. He sent me to personally invite you all to our wedding reception.” I turned to leave. But Amber suddenly rushed out, grabbing my hand. Comparing our hands side-by-side, our diamond rings were identical. She immediately burst into tears, throwing herself into Vivian’s arms. “She even copied my ring! You really went all out just to spite me! Even the wedding invitations are identical! How long are you going to keep tormenting me?” Seeing Amber’s tearful breakdown, Vivian lost all control. SMACK! A stinging slap landed across my face, leaving five fiery red finger marks. “I knew you were a shameless lunatic! I should have never acknowledged you!” I clutched my burning cheek, struggling to breathe, desperate not to let the tears fall. I started out as a streamer. People always said I looked identical to Vivian when she was young, an actress. My followers kept pushing me to connect with her, jokingly. It was just for content, initially. But then, someone actually dug into it. Turns out, I was Vivian’s biological daughter. We’d been switched at birth in the hospital. Riding this wave of massive public interest, Vivian reappeared on the big screen. Amber also capitalized on our “sisterly bond,” reaping all the benefits. She slowly started her own accounts, siphoning off my followers and brand deals. I thought I’d finally found a real family, so I didn’t pay it much mind. But the moment I got into grad school at a prestigious university, encouraged by Amber… everything changed. I was branded a manipulative copycat, only capable of imitation. No matter what I did, the internet would flood with accusations that I was just copying her. I stayed out of the public eye for a long time after that, almost giving up entirely. Vivian pointed a furious finger at me, her voice dripping with venom. “If you still want me as your mother, delete your Ins accounts now, apologize to Amber, and I’ll pretend none of this happened.” I stubbornly lifted my chin. “I’m your daughter too. Was there ever a single moment you wanted to believe me?” Perhaps my voice was too raw, too desperate. For a split second, Vivian’s resolve wavered, and her eyes softened. Amber cried even harder. “Stop faking it! How could two people look exactly alike?” Right. If I hadn’t grown up with Kamran, I might even suspect that Connor from the Shen family was deliberately teaming up with Amber to play a trick on me. Kamran always valued decorum. He’d been pestering me to meet my parents. I’d always refused. Now, it was time. “Believe it or not. In three days, Kamran will personally pay a visit.” For the first time since I walked in, I stared directly into Vivian’s eyes. “Will you give me an apology then?”

But three days later, I was locked out. It’s almost funny, isn’t it? My own parents’ house, and I didn’t even have a key. After an hour of waiting, Vivian finally appeared. She looked genuinely surprised to see me. “Oh, Skylar, how long have you been waiting here?” Behind her, Amber was giggling, arm-in-arm with an elegant middle-aged woman. The woman scanned me from head to toe. “So you’re Skylar. I heard your fiancé looks exactly like my Connor. I specially came to see. Where is he?” Amber covered her mouth and chuckled, a hint of disdain in her voice. “Aunt Victoria, only your kind heart would believe such nonsense. Three days? Even if she found someone to get plastic surgery to look like Connor, it wouldn’t be ready in time!” I calmly took a sip of tea. “Kamran had an urgent flight to New York for a meeting yesterday. He’ll rush over as soon as he lands.” Vivian’s eyes lit up instantly. “Sounds busy. What does he do?” Kamran was always low-key. Besides the few companies he owned, I actually wasn’t entirely sure what he did. “Oh, he just works at his family’s company.” At my words, the others exchanged knowing glances and a suppressed laugh. “The Mu family… never heard of them. Did she not even have time to make up a background story?” Just then, the doorbell rang. For a split second, I was ready to rush into his arms. But when I saw the roses in his hand, and the missing mole beneath his eye, I knew immediately this wasn’t Kamran. I’m allergic to roses; he would never forget that. “I’m not late, am I?” “No, you’re just in time.” Amber took the flowers, then playfully kissed him on the cheek. Connor rubbed his earlobe, a blush creeping up his neck. The gesture was exactly like Kamran’s. I noticed Connor’s gaze lingering on me, so Amber quickly stepped in front of me. “My man’s here. Where’s yours?” “Could it be that after seeing Connor in person, your ‘actor’ didn’t dare show up?” No new messages on SnapChat. His phone was still off. My heart began to waver. Were they really… not the same person? Suddenly. The doorbell rang a second time. I rushed to open the door, filled with hope. But I only saw over a dozen delivery people, carrying gift after gift inside. Soon, the entire living room was overflowing. “I’m sorry, Mr. Kamran had an emergency. He truly couldn’t make it today. These gifts are a small token of his apology.” Amber burst out laughing. “You think we’ll believe you if you just spend a little money? Skylar, you’re such a joke.” Victoria grabbed her purse. “Alright, I’ve seen enough of this charade.” She looked at Vivian, her eyes filled with thinly veiled threats. “If she has mental issues, she should see a doctor. If she’s desperate to get married, she should find an old man. If she continues this ridiculous behavior, it’ll be the Shen family’s reputation on the line.” In the end, Vivian bowed ninety degrees, smiling apologetically as she escorted Victoria out. As I was leaving, she uttered one last sentence. “Skylar, you should have just died out there.”

That night, Kamran knelt by my bedside for three hours straight before I finally cooled down. Even with lingering doubts, we silently agreed not to bring up meeting my parents again. We focused on planning our wedding. Unexpectedly, while trying on wedding dresses, I ran into Amber again. “So what if someone else ordered it? Whatever she’s paying, I’ll pay double!” Brenda, the store manager, politely tried to explain, “It’s not about the money…” “Do you know who I’m marrying?” “The Shens.” “Who in all of New York dares to go against the Shen family?!” When Brenda saw me, she looked like she’d found a savior, finally letting out a sigh of relief. “This gown was custom-designed for Ms. Skylar. It’s to commemorate their collaborative brand’s first appearance at Paris Fashion Week.” Amber’s eyes turned even redder with envy. “Honestly, the dress isn’t that great.” She leaned close to my ear, her voice a poisonous whisper. “But if it’s yours, I will take it.” The next second, she switched to a pitiful sob, tilting her head and burrowing into Connor’s arms. “They all say I’m just a fake heiress, that I don’t deserve anything…” Connor lovingly stroked her head, his voice soft with reassurance. “No one bullies my wife. If you like it, we’ll get it.” Brenda hesitated, looking at me with a troubled expression. I nodded, silently agreeing. After all, with Amber’s waistline, which she’d been “fortifying” to ensure a boy, there was no way she’d fit into it. Sure enough. Riiip! A girl’s shriek echoed from the fitting room. When Amber emerged, still furious, she deliberately stomped on the gown twice. That was it. The remaining crystals on the dress rained down like scattered beads. Brenda quickly came over with the bill. A crowd of onlookers watched, enjoying the drama. Amber looked even more flustered and indignant. “Why are you rushing? I dared to try it, so of course I’ll pay for it.” But the next second, when she saw the number on the bill: “What?! Ten million?!” Amber nervously glanced at Connor’s face. She knew Victoria had only given him a budget of one million. No matter how much she pouted and begged, she couldn’t justify multiplying that by ten. “It’s this stupid dress! It scratched my waist, and I got so upset…” “It’s fine,” Connor said, signing the bill with a flourish. “But you’ll have to explain it to my mom yourself, okay?” Amber’s face froze. His tone seemed as doting as ever, but Connor’s eyes remained fixed on me. Even Amber, who had been so smug just moments ago, sensed something was off. Suddenly intrigued, I leaned close to her ear, mimicking her soft tone. “Tell me, do you think it’s possible that Connor is actually playing you?”

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The moment I pushed open the door, I saw my husband, Julian’s, secretary hiding right under his desk. She was clearly performing an intimate act for him, and he was struggling to suppress his excitement. I placed the document in front of him. “The company’s new project. Just sign it!” As expected, he didn’t even glance at the document, signing it directly. Before leaving, I glanced under the desk. “She can come out now.” Julian instantly panicked, fumbling to zip up his pants. He probably thought I’d make a huge scene, just like I used to. But I just sneered, “Don’t make your little plaything kneel too long. Her knees will hurt!” With that, I slammed the door shut. He had no idea that what he’d just signed was our divorce agreement. Chloe’s soft, whiny voice drifted from the office. “Mr. Hayes, you scared me to death just now.” Julian chuckled softly. His voice was husky with a hint of intimacy. “What’s there to be scared of? She wouldn’t eat you.” “But she’s your wife…” “She’s very understanding! See? She just left on her own, didn’t she?” I stood outside the door, the hallway light slanting across my feet. Chloe’s voice grew even softer. “So, tonight… are you still coming home?” “Fun is fun,” Julian said nonchalantly, “but home is still home.” Chloe giggled. “Mr. Hayes, anything she can do, I can do too! Was I not pleasing you just now?” “You’re different from her,” he replied lazily. “She’s stubborn as a mule, but she can’t leave me!” “You know how much trouble she caused with her family back then just to marry me. If I don’t go home, would any of you ‘little darlings’ out here even have a life?” He spoke of heavy past events as if whispering sweet nothings. Chloe’s voice turned syrupy. “So, do you… like her that way? Seemingly arrogant, but actually pathetic!” The air went quiet for two seconds. Then I heard Julian let out a faint laugh, retorting, “What do you think?” “I think—” Chloe didn’t finish her sentence. Because I pushed the door open. Both people in the office froze simultaneously. Chloe was half-sitting on Julian’s desk. Julian was leaning back in his chair, his shirt collar open. He paused, startled to see me, then raised an eyebrow. “Forget something?” I didn’t speak, walking straight to the coffee table. My car keys were indeed left there. I picked up the keys, turning to leave. “Elara.” Julian stood up, walking around the desk towards me. His arms were already wrapped around my waist. At the company, he was always like this. He never stinted on his favored physical gestures. I gently pulled away. After being entangled with his mistress, he reeked of a woman’s perfume. The exact same scent as the bottle on my vanity. He’d given it to me last month, claiming it was “one of a kind” and perfect for me. Now, thinking about it, he’d probably bought them in bulk. “I’ll be home for dinner tonight.” His voice carried that familiar gentleness. “What do you want to eat? I’ll cook myself, hmm?” Chloe made a small “hmph” sound beside him. “No need,” I said. “I have plans tonight.” His smile faded slightly, but the corners of his lips were still upturned. “What’s wrong? Are you mad?” He leaned closer. “Because of Chloe? I told you, she’s just a—” “I know,” I gently interrupted. “She’s an intern secretary, and she needs your hands-on guidance.” As for what kind of “guidance,” that depended on his needs. He paused, momentarily stunned. He probably hadn’t expected me to neither make a fuss nor even bother with sarcasm this time. He raised a hand to touch my face, but I had already taken a step forward. “Alright,” he shrugged, changing his grip to my arm. “Whatever it is, be home before nine.” Chloe let out a small snicker beside us. I glanced at her, and she met my gaze. Compared to the women I’d dealt with before, she was too well-protected. Her eyes held unconcealed triumph and provocation. Youth truly is wonderful. Looking at that vibrant face, I almost felt like I was back to my 20s, that summer I ran from the facility, protected in Julian’s arms.

It was the third day my dad sent me for “treatment.” Treatment for my “love-struck brain,” treatment for my “illness” of insisting on being with a poor boy. Julian waited all night, lying in the ventilation duct. At dawn, when the orderlies changed shifts, he pried open my room window. “Jump!” he called, arms outstretched below. I closed my eyes and jumped. He caught me, falling to the ground himself. His elbow cracked, but he never let go. Once we reached safety, he leaned against a wall, his shirt soaked with sweat. He grabbed my hand, pressing it against his chest. His heart was pounding fast and hard. “Elara,” his eyes were terrifyingly red. “Listen, if I can get you out of here today, then nothing will ever separate us again.” He pulled something from his pocket. A thin silver ring, bought from a cheap stall at the market. He’d crudely engraved an “E” on the inside. His fingers trembled as he put it on my finger. “When I have money someday, I’ll definitely replace this with the biggest diamond ring for you.” His voice choked, as if he felt I was suffering immense hardship. The sun that day was just like this, shining brightly on his young face, illuminating the light in his eyes. I thought that was forever. …… Not long after returning to my office, Mia, my assistant, knocked and came in. “Ms. Hayes, here’s the summary of the expenses you authorized during your week-long business trip.” She placed the tablet in front of me. “Among them… Ms. Chloe’s spending records require your review.” I scrolled the screen. Private Italian lingerie custom order, Royal Luxury SPA, Ritz-Carlton suite… Scrolling further, my finger stopped at the last entry: Private Maternity Hospital Medical Consultation… Mia cautiously added, “The finance department said… these expenses were all processed under ’employee benefits,’ with Mr. Hayes’ special authorization.” I put down my coffee cup and asked her, “How long has Chloe been employed?” “Three months.” I nodded, asking nothing further. “Since Mr. Hayes approved it, follow the procedure.” Mia remained standing, twisting the hem of her shirt. “Ms. Hayes… there are some things I don’t know if I should say.” “Go ahead.” “On your first day of business trip, she… she dragged Mr. Hayes to your seat and…” Mia sniffled, looking distressed. “I overheard them as I passed by. She laughed and said she wanted to take the thrill all the way.” I instinctively looked at my office chair. That chair was special; Julian had specially ordered it from Milan when we first started the company. He said, “You always have back pain, this chair is good for your spine.” Actually, I already knew about what Mia mentioned. Chloe was in her early twenties. Unlike the previous women, she wasn’t afraid to provoke Julian or lose her job. She was arrogant, audacious, practically wanting to photograph every hickey in a close-up. How could she not send such stimulating “trophies” to me immediately to show off? Last Wednesday at 2 AM. I was pulling an all-nighter, working on a proposal in my hotel room during the business trip, when my phone screen suddenly lit up. An unknown number sent a photo. The moment I opened it, I didn’t even immediately recognize what it was. Until I clearly saw – it was my office. The girl, whose face was obscured, was sitting in my chair, and Julian was leaning over, kissing her. The sender even added a caption: [It’s definitely extra comfortable in this chair…!] I didn’t see her face, but I already guessed who it was. I didn’t reply. But at that moment, a wall in my chest suddenly collapsed. So, I decided to return and deal with this urgent matter of ‘divorce’— And he still hadn’t noticed the divorce agreement hidden beneath the “West Side Project Funding Request.”

“Last Friday, the day you left, she wore your heels to work. I asked her why she was wearing your shoes, and she said…” Mia choked up. “She said Mr. Hayes told her those shoes suited her, and that Ms. Hayes wouldn’t mind.” She looked up, her eyes red. “Ms. Hayes, do you really… not mind?” I looked at the girl who was feeling wronged on my behalf. I smiled, devoid of any real emotion. “Those shoes didn’t fit me anyway. If she likes them, she can have them.” Before my business trip, I had no idea these two had already gotten together. At that time, the company was preparing to expand into new markets, and I didn’t have the mental capacity to keep an eye on Julian. Not to mention, Julian still had a steady mistress living near the company back then. Looking at Chloe’s aggressive stance, that one was probably already phased out. “Wipe your tears,” I pulled a tissue and handed it to her. “I’ll be away next week. Please keep a close eye on company matters, big and small.” She paused. “Where are you going?” I didn’t answer, just looked out the window. The sunlight was beautiful, just like that afternoon seven years ago when we got our marriage certificate. Julian went back to the old mansion alone, kneeling on the hard ground in the study for three hours, begging for my father’s approval. “Sir, I know you don’t think highly of me. But Elara believes in me, and I won’t let her lose.” Although he was eventually thrown out. But that day, my father stood by the window for a long time. Finally, he revised Julian’s flawed business plan in the study and secretly sent it to me. These old stories, bringing them up felt like cashing in on favors, tainting true feelings with calculation. But if I didn’t… If I didn’t, he would truly believe he was a sudden genius. He would think that all those data, connections, and funds were earned by his own merit. Shortly after Mia left, Julian called me from his car. “The little girl was scared by your surprise visit today,” his voice was low and laced with a smile. “It’ll take some time to soothe her. I’ll be back late tonight. Remember to leave the door unlocked for me.” I was silent for three seconds before speaking. “Didn’t we agree there’d be no kids from your games?” A moment of silence on the other end. “What kids?” His voice remained steady. “Chloe going to a maternity clinic can’t be for no reason, can it?” Two seconds later, he suddenly laughed. “You’re investigating her?” “It’s on the company’s ledger,” I replied calmly. “A half-million dollar pregnancy check-up package, processed as employee benefits. Mr. Hayes was quite generous with his approval.” He seemed genuinely unaware. Perhaps he hadn’t scrutinized the details when approving the payment. He softened his tone, his voice coaxing. “Elara, that was an accident! She’s young and foolish, she thought getting pregnant would change something.” “So?” “I’ll handle it,” he said decisively. “Don’t worry, no one will threaten your position.” “Julian,” I called his name. “Hmm?” “Do you remember,” I said slowly, “how we lost our first child?” His breathing hitched on the other end of the line. “Alright, Elara… that’s all in the past. There’s no point in bringing it up repeatedly.” “Yes,” I smiled, a touch of melancholy in my voice. “It’s all in the past.” Including the child who never got to be born. Including the vows he made on his knees. Including that matter he held a grudge about all those years ago… “Get some rest,” he said. “I’ll be home after I calm her down.” He hung up. I also raised my hand, and for the first time, and the last, I added him to my block list. Then, I replied to the message that had been waiting for me for a week: [All taken care of. I’ll be there for the wedding on time!]

By the time I left work, all my personal belongings had been handled. The elevator descended, a gentle sense of weightlessness enveloping my body. Once upon a time, in this very elevator, he had pressed me against the mirrored wall, kissing me passionately, saying, “Elara, what incredible fortune in this life and the last did I cultivate to marry you.” His eyes were so bright back then. Bright enough to seem like he truly believed his own lies. I had arranged to say goodbye to a local friend. The restaurant was by the river. Not long after I sat down, I saw Julian walk in, his arm around Chloe’s waist. He was leaning in to listen to her, a lazy smile playing on his lips. Julian saw me first. He paused for a moment, then his smile deepened. Instead of avoiding me, he walked straight over. “Your ‘plans’ were just dining alone?” He pulled out the chair opposite me and sat down. “The steak here is good,” Julian picked up the wine bottle from my table and examined it. “But the bottle you ordered is too light. I’ll have the server open a better one.” The server brought the wine he ordered. Julian personally poured two glasses, pushing one towards me and handing one to Chloe. Chloe, being pregnant, naturally didn’t drink. He asked me, “How’s the taste?” “It’s alright.” “Just ‘alright’?” His smile deepened. “I remember you used to love this wine, said it had… a bitter almond aroma.” “People’s tastes change,” I put down my glass. “What seemed good before, now, it’s just ‘whatever’.” Julian’s gaze deepened. But he quickly smiled again, turning to put an arm around Chloe’s shoulders. “Hear that?” He leaned in and smiled at her, his tone doting. “Your sister is teaching you a lesson: don’t take men too seriously.” Chloe playfully slapped his chest. “What about you? Can I take you seriously?” “Me?” Julian looked up, his gaze landing on my face, but his words were for her. “Someone like me, you should just have fun with, never take it seriously.” He said it flippantly, as if expecting me to coldly stand up and leave, as I had in the past. To leave them to their private space. But I was not so obliging. I simply picked up my wine glass and took another sip. It wasn’t until I received a message that my friend couldn’t make it that I finally stood up. “My friend was delayed,” I said, rising. “Please excuse me.” As I turned to leave. Chloe suddenly spoke. “Elara, it’s Mr. Hayes’s birthday next week. We’re having a yacht party. You should come too?” I paused. “You must come,” Chloe’s voice turned syrupy. “Mr. Hayes said the birthday gift he most wants to receive is…” She deliberately paused, looking at Julian. He reached out, pinching her cheek, scolding her playfully, “You talk too much.” I nodded. “If you’re not afraid of me crashing the party, then I can go.” I didn’t look at them as I walked out of the restaurant. Their laughter was muffled by the glass windows, gradually fading away. When I returned to the villa at seven, Mrs. Davis was in the kitchen, stewing soup. “Ms. Hayes, you’re back?” “Mr. Hayes just called to say he’ll be late. Should I save him some soup?” “No need,” I put down my bag. “He won’t be coming back.” Mrs. Davis hesitated. “Then… are you sleeping here tonight?” My hand, unbuttoning my coat, paused. “What do you mean?” “During your business trip these past few days,” Mrs. Davis’s voice grew softer, “Ms. Chloe… moved in.” The air was silent for two seconds. I continued unbuttoning my coat, one button, then another. “Which room is she sleeping in?” “The master bedroom… for four consecutive nights. Mr. Hayes… was there too.” I nodded. “Ms. Hayes,” Mrs. Davis hesitated, “It’s not that I didn’t want to tell you, but Mr. Hayes said you’d be upset if you knew, and he told me to…” “It’s alright, I don’t blame you.” I looked up, surveying the living room. Every piece of furniture here I picked, every painting I hung. He was very satisfied. He always said, “Elara, this house only feels like a home with you in it.” Now, this house was no different from a hotel. Anyone could come and spend a few nights. With that, I went upstairs. Pushing open the master bedroom door, a strange, sweet scent wafted over me. The bedsheets had been changed, and my skincare products on the vanity were pushed into a corner. For these four years, I had checked his SnapChat message logs, tracked which apartment his assistant sent flowers to… Now, as I tossed my wedding ring, I suddenly felt a wave of lightness. My phone received a flight alert: “Ms. Hayes, your urgent flight coordination is confirmed and will depart at midnight.”

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