I stood by Jasper while he built his fortune from the ground up, remaining by his side for ten years. Yet, once he achieved success, the first thing he did was propose to Phoebe. He said people often yearn for what they couldn’t have in their youth. He claimed his feelings for Phoebe were just unfinished business, asking me to wait a little longer. But I was out of time. Each day he spent wrapped up with Phoebe felt like a countdown to my end. … In the office, I accidentally walked in on Jasper and Phoebe during their secret rendezvous. The typically reserved CEO of Jasper’s Corporation was embracing Phoebe. His eyes turned dark, with a hint of red at the edges. My heart sank, and I stood frozen in shock, not even noticing the documents slipping from my hands. Jasper quickly covered Phoebe’s exposed back and stared at me with intensity, “Get out!” His tone was cold and harsh, as if I were some bothersome presence. Unable to bear those icy eyes any longer, I fled. The scene kept replaying in my mind, making my stomach churn. I stumbled into the bathroom, clutching the sink as I vomited. The pain in my stomach and the mental fog overwhelmed me. I didn’t know how long it took before Jasper finally came looking for me. He approached, still carrying Phoebe’s lingering scent. The smell made me nauseous again, so I distanced myself and said, “This is the ladies’ room.” Jasper paused, then locked the door. “Is this enough for you?” he said. “Adeline, stop this.” It was laughable—I hadn’t done anything, yet he came to tell me to stop. What was I doing? “You know I only did it to get back at Lydia.” “I know you like me, I…” “You’ve waited ten years already, can’t you wait a little longer?” His calm gaze fell on me, the earlier desires he showed for Lydia now completely gone. I choked. He had known all along. Ten years of hidden love, those feelings I carefully hid away, he knew them all. Yet he kept them at a distance, repeatedly playing out this tragic love drama before me. What did he see me as? A pathetic fool? Or a servant who flawlessly handled both his work and life? Thinking of him with Phoebe made my stomach ache again. The pain twisted my insides, and a metallic taste rose in my throat. Jasper frowned at my trembling form, “Adeline…” I shouted, “Get out!” I frantically grabbed his collar and pushed him out, locking the door and turning back to the sink to vomit again. When I lifted my head, my mouth was full of blood. “Miss Xue, your cancer has advanced to stage four, leading to severe gastrointestinal bleeding. It’s very dangerous,” the doctor sighed repeatedly while looking at my test results. “I recommend hospitalization.” But as I listened, my eyes were blankly fixated on my phone. The company forum’s gossip post had already skyrocketed. The front page showed Lydia in Jasper’s coat, being pulled into his office. When she emerged, her clothes were disheveled, and her lipstick smeared. The contrast between the two photos led many to imagine the worst. Especially since Lydia held a special status as Jasper’s chosen Phoebe, the one who occupied his thoughts for ten years. The comment section was buzzing. “Does this mean Jasper’s Corporation is getting a new boss lady?” “Of course. Lydia dumped him when Jasper’s Family went bankrupt, but he still couldn’t forget her. Now that he’s back on top, he chased her down again. If it wasn’t true love, who’d do that?” “Also, a friend in the secretary’s office said the CEO plans to propose. He’s already secretly preparing.” “What? Is Jasper really going to marry her? What about Manager Xue?” “Adeline? What’s she, anyway? She’s been with the CEO for ten years. If he was going to give her a title, he would have done it by now. Why drag it out and make it so embarrassing?” “I say, the CEO’s stance is clear. She’s been just a manager for all these years, obviously dispensable. Yet she clings like a shadow. I’d have left long ago.” “Staying now, waiting for the boss lady to come in and be humiliated?” Reading those comments, my heart felt pierced. Was my decade of loyalty really so worthless in others’ eyes? And Jasper… I thought again of him and Lydia in the office. Is that what he thinks too? “Miss Xue, what’s your decision?” the doctor asked again, tentatively. Maybe he felt pity for the young life before him. “If you don’t get hospitalized, your life expectancy is less than three months…” Three months. I felt dazed. I looked down, my eyes falling back on those comments. A bitter feeling rippled through me. “Alright. I’ll stay.” After arranging for hospitalization, I requested leave from Jasper via phone. Lying in the hospital bed, I realized it was my first time taking leave in ten years. Jasper always joked that I was a workaholic, with a will of steel, the favorite worker of capitalists. But he didn’t know it was just for him that I endured. I lost my parents young, and Jasper’s Family supported me for ten years, helping me avoid hardships and successfully get into college. But soon after, Jasper’s Corporation went bankrupt, accumulating huge debts. Jasper’s parents couldn’t handle the pressure and jumped to their deaths. The once favored son studying abroad had to drop out and return home to clean up the mess. When I heard, I rushed to Jasper’s Family. The once-bustling household was desolate, and the boy lay among piles of debt contracts, quietly sobbing. That vulnerability struck me deeply. Naively, I thought I could save him, just as his parents had saved me. Driven by a sense of mission, I resolutely went to him, determined to pull him from the mire. The story that followed was cliché. Gradually, under my daily influence, Jasper emerged from his despair and took on his parents’ debt, rebuilding from scratch. Meanwhile, I studied and helped him with the business. In the early days, it was just the two of us, working till exhaustion, often going without sleep, ending up with four dark circles under our eyes. To share his burden, I even attended drinking parties, turning from a non-drinker to someone who could hold her liquor. We lived like that for ten years, achieving today’s success. Jasper cleared all his debts and gloriously bought back Jasper’s Corporation. I thought I had redeemed him. But he told me he had come this far only for the heartless Phoebe who abandoned him. In a daze, I got a call from Jasper. His usual cool tone, “Taking leave for hospitalization? Are you sick? Even a workaholic has days she can’t endure.” “Which hospital? Want me to visit?” His tone was casual, teasing, as if he’d long forgotten the earlier unpleasantness. He always did this, moving on as if nothing mattered besides Phoebe. If I brought up conflicts, I’d seem petty. So I usually let it slide, ignoring things again and again. But this time, I was tired, lacking the energy to follow his lead. I suddenly wondered what expression Jasper would have if he knew I was dying. So I said, “Sure. General Hospital, Building 5, North Wing, Bed 31. Come on over.” Jasper didn’t expect my response and paused. Then he chuckled lightly, “Adeline, your lie is quite detailed.” “Stop joking. I know you’re upset about what happened before. I apologize, okay?” “I shouldn’t have yelled at you in the bathroom.” “But Lydia heartlessly left me when my family went bankrupt. I can’t swallow that.” “I’ve held on for so many years, finally reaching today, just to make her suffer as I did.” “I want her to soar high and then fall hard… Adeline, I’m about to succeed.” “Adeline, help me one more time.” Almost begging, in a way. Knowing me for ten years, Jasper had me figured out. He knew I couldn’t refuse. He sent an address, asking me to help. I looked at it, feeling helpless but eventually packed my things and went. The address Jasper sent was an amusement park under Jasper’s Corporation. I’d been there multiple times during project development, but I didn’t expect it to be the venue for setting up a proposal for Phoebe. Jasper said I was meticulous and suited his needs, specifically appointing me as the general coordinator. Ha, he certainly thought highly of me. The path had to be lined with flowers, the scenery along the way had to be beautiful, and the proposal scene had to be impressive. Even the people playing NPCs had to be ones she liked… A list of demands that made my head spin. So when the park manager asked for my instructions, I waved it off, “Whatever.” This was Jasper’s revenge game, unrelated to me. Besides, was it really just a game to him? Thinking back to the redness in his eyes, I couldn’t be sure. Maybe even he couldn’t guarantee it. So my existence became even more of a joke. Haha, he really does think a lot of me. Moreover, the Path needs to be lined with flowers, the scenery along the way must be exquisite, the Proposal setting should be outstanding, and even the NPC dolls should be ones she likes… He made a slew of such requests, giving me a headache. So when the Amusement Park Manager consulted me, I just waved it off and said, “Whatever.”

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Cora’s dad forced me to donate bone marrow to the fake heiress. When I felt all hope was lost, my boyfriend unexpectedly proposed we marry sooner and took me home. But after the wedding, he seemed restless every night. I thought it was because he loved me so much. Then I found out I was pregnant and overheard him talking to my dad: “Your plan’s brilliant. Let Cora’s child be the donor for Adeline’s bone marrow. Once Adeline recovers, I’ll keep my promise and marry her.” “But this is your child too. Can you really be so heartless?” The husband who had always been gentle and loving towards me now had a look of cold indifference: “If Cora had agreed to donate her bone marrow to Adeline, I wouldn’t have needed to marry her. She owes Adeline and should repay the favor.” Hearing this, my dad solemnly patted Asher on the shoulder. “I’m sorry for putting you through this. To save Adeline, you had to approach Cora and sacrifice such a significant life event.” “Once it’s done, I’ll give you an extra three percent on the Asher family project.” A flicker of delight crossed Asher’s face. “Thank you, Dad. I’ll be devoted to Adeline in the future!” Hiding outside the study, I trembled in fear. I never imagined that Asher, whom I loved for four years, saw me merely as a means to an end. Even our child was just a tool to save Adeline. I covered my mouth tightly, stifling my sobs. It wasn’t until I returned to my room that tears began to flow uncontrollably. Half a year ago, I was brought back to Cora’s family. On the sofa sat my dad and the delicate, pale Cora. My dad gazed at Cora with affection, treating me like a stranger. “I don’t care about blood ties. Though Cora is a fake heiress, she’s still my daughter whom I’ve raised for 18 years. You two need to get along.” Despite feeling unsettled, I nodded. I had spent the first 18 years in an orphanage, longing desperately for family love. But then he asked me to donate bone marrow to Cora! “She’s your sister. It’s only right for a sister to yield to her sibling.” “If you can’t donate even this bit of bone marrow, you’re unworthy of being part of Cora’s family.” In an instant, my last shred of hope was completely shattered. As they were about to force me with bodyguards, I grabbed a fruit knife and held it to my neck. “I’d rather die than give away my bone marrow!” Cora’s family didn’t know what to do with me. At this moment, my boyfriend Asher appeared like a god, driving away those bodyguards. He reprimanded my dad and took me away from Cora’s family. “Don’t worry, I’ll give you a home and all my love.” I believed his promise, and after our quick marriage, my heart was filled with him. Asher clung to me every day, saying he wanted a love child with me. I said I didn’t want kids so soon. But he secretly poked holes in the condoms behind my back. Even the nutritious meals he made for me were actually fertility porridge… Asher had planned it all along, wanting me to get pregnant to save Adeline. Coming back to reality, I looked at the crumpled pregnancy test sheet in my hand, feeling a wave of disgust. I threw it under the bed and scheduled an appointment for an abortion. Just as I confirmed the time, Asher walked in. Seeing my tear-streaked face, he looked tense: “Who upset my wife? I’m here, don’t cry.” In the past, I would have been touched, thinking he was my support. But now, knowing the truth, I found him hypocritical and disgusting. Seeing my silence, Asher frowned slightly, “What happened? Didn’t you just message me saying you had something to tell me?” I made up an excuse, “I won a prize. The company is rewarding me with a three-day vacation.” A hint of disappointment flashed in Asher’s eyes. He thought it was the good news of my pregnancy and was about to say something. But then his phone rang again. I saw it was a message from Adeline, and my heart ached. But Asher’s expression softened instantly, focusing on Adeline’s message. I watched coldly, realizing how blind I’d been. I never noticed how obvious they were. After replying to the message, Asher came over and pinched my face like usual. “Wife, I don’t want to be apart from you. Adeline also said she wants to go out for some relaxation. How about the three of us go together?” I frowned and refused, “No way, you know we don’t get along.” Asher pouted, “We’re family after all. You’ve been distant from them for so long, it’s not good for our future. Why not take this chance to ease things?” “That’s settled, any more fuss and you’re just being unreasonable.” With that, he turned and left. I sighed, feeling only irritation. To avoid them noticing anything, I messaged the doctor to postpone the abortion by three days. While packing that night, I found Asher’s diary. He never let me open it, and I obediently complied. But this time, I opened it impulsively. Every page recorded his deep love for Adeline. “Tomorrow I’m marrying Cora. I spent the whole night in our bridal chamber holding Adeline. We love each other but can’t be together. I hate myself.” “Adeline’s condition is worsening. I can only desperately be intimate with Cora to get her pregnant. I wish the person beneath me was Adeline.” … I only realized I was crying when my fingers touched the cold pages. In a panic, I put the diary back. Then Adeline messaged me again. “Sister, Asher already told you we’re going on a trip tomorrow, right?” “He’s not coming home tonight, he’s shopping with me. You don’t have to wait for him.” Maybe worried I wouldn’t believe her, she sent several pictures of Asher. In the photos, Asher knelt on the ground, putting high heels on her reverently. All the high heels were high-fashion and expensive. After our marriage, I was considerate of Asher’s new business and never spent his money. So he went along with it, even my birthday was hastily arranged. “Wife, you’re the best. Once I make big money, I’ll make it up to you with birthday gifts.” But I didn’t expect Asher wasn’t short of money. He just didn’t want to put effort into me. I thought my heart was dead, but seeing this, it still ached uncontrollably. I wanted to call and confront Asher, but I held back. Causing a scene would only make things more embarrassing for me. I set Adeline to “Do Not Disturb” and got ready for bed. In the dark, I touched my belly. “Baby, I’m sorry.” “But Dad doesn’t love Mom. I’m afraid you’ll regret coming into this world…” I was once an orphan, suffering scorn. I vowed to give my future child a happy family. Now that Asher turned out like this, how could I let my child follow in my footsteps? Early the next morning, Asher returned. There were visible kiss marks on his neck. I pretended not to see, but the pain in my heart was undeniable. “Wife, are you jealous?” Asher noticed my mood and tried to coax me. “Dad insisted I accompany Little Adeline shopping yesterday. I couldn’t refuse. Don’t be mad, I bought you a gift.” He then handed me a brooch. I lowered my eyes, hiding my disappointment. “Alright, we’re running late, let’s get going.” Asher nodded, pinned the brooch on my clothes, and led me out. In the car, Adeline’s gaze lingered on our holding hands, her expression slightly changing. She sat in my designated seat and threw all my dolls to the ground. “Sister, these dolls annoy me, so I tossed them. You don’t mind, right?” “And I get carsick. The back seat’s air is stuffy, so you’ll have to bear it.” I ignored her and silently looked at Asher. I thought, if he defended me, I would part ways on good terms for the sake of our four years. But I was disappointed again. Asher pretended not to hear and quietly buckled Adeline’s seatbelt. After seeing this, my last bit of affection for him vanished. I closed my eyes and lay back to rest. But due to emotional turmoil, I had morning sickness. Unable to hold back, I threw up in the car, making Adeline scream in anger. “You’re just doing this because I’m in the front seat, trying to disgust me, right?” “Sister, if you’re so petty, I won’t go on this trip.” As she spoke, she was about to get out, and Asher hurriedly kicked me out instead. He didn’t bother to hide anymore, his face dark: “Adeline’s health isn’t good. Why upset her? What’s your motive?” “We came out to have fun, can’t you stop being so petty and ruining everyone’s mood?” He then told me to find my own way to the airport. But he left me on the highway, where no cars dared to stop. I had to stumble to the airport on my own. In the end, my feet were blistered, and the back of my high heels was covered in blood. Asher noticed and showed a hint of reluctance. He softened his tone, “I got too emotional on the road earlier, I’m sorry, wife, let me carry you.” But I directly refused. I didn’t want any physical contact with him anymore. Seeing my cold attitude, Asher tried to coax me. Adeline, beside us, was burning with jealousy. Seeing the brooch on my clothes, she eagerly mocked: “Isn’t this the bonus from buying high heels yesterday? Sister, you really like it.” “Asher, this brooch suits my sister perfectly, you have a great eye.” Asher noticed, and a fleeting reluctance showed in his eyes. He softened his tone, “I got too emotional on the road earlier, sorry, my dear. Let me carry you.” But I refused outright. I didn’t want any physical contact with him now. Seeing my cold demeanor, Asher patiently tried to placate me. Adeline, standing nearby, was burning with jealousy. Noticing the brooch on my clothes, she couldn’t wait to mock, “Isn’t that the free gift from the high heels I bought yesterday? Sister, you must really like it.” “Asher, this brooch really suits my sister, you have a good eye.” The atmosphere suddenly grew tense. Asher stammered, trying to explain, but I tossed the brooch into the trash. It was the first time I had openly disregarded Asher’s feelings. He got a bit angry too, “Even if it’s a free gift, it was a token of my affection, and you just threw it away!” “Adeline is your sister, and I’m her brother-in-law! What’s wrong with buying her something?” “Don’t forget, she’s the heiress raised in Cora’s family. Do you have the right to compete with her?” Could Asher really remember he’s Adeline’s brother-in-law? I felt only irony in my heart, yanking his collar, “Alright, then explain to me, what are these?” Asher’s face turned red, “These are just mosquito bites from yesterday, my dear, don’t misunderstand.” “It’s my fault for not making you feel secure. It won’t happen again.” Adeline stood by, looking at me with mockery in her eyes, full of provocation. I only felt exhausted, not saying another word. When we reached our destination, Adeline insisted on sharing a room with us. “I’m scared to stay alone, and besides, staying together means you can take better care of me.” “Sister, you’re not jealous of even this, are you?” I was furious, wanting to book a separate room for myself. But Asher stopped me, “Are you trying to make a joke of us? Besides, Adeline has a point. Just accommodate her a bit more.” Afraid I’d insist on two rooms, Asher grabbed my phone. Helplessly, I had to share a big bed with them. Adeline insisted on lying in the middle, her arm casually draped over Asher. Later, she even slipped into his embrace right in front of me. “Do you have no shame, so desperate for a man?” “Asher, if you want to get intimate, go get another room. Don’t involve me in your play.” I couldn’t hold back, with red eyes, I questioned them. Asher frowned, protecting Adeline, “Enough, don’t scare her. It was an accident, is it worth getting this angry?” “Can you stop being so filthy-minded? If I really had something with Little Adeline, would you still have a place?” Hearing this, Adeline looked at me pitifully, “Sister, can’t you tolerate me at all? I just accidentally took brother-in-law as my teddy bear pillow.” “In that case, I’ll just go back to New York City now.” Asher couldn’t stand her acting like this and impulsively slapped me. “I think you need discipline. Adeline came to make amends with you, and you’re not appreciative, just nitpicking!” Stunned by his slap, I held my reddened cheek, the pain spreading to my heart. Asher realized and tried to apologize, pulling me. But I slapped him back. My eyes were full of coldness and disappointment: “She doesn’t need to leave, I will.” “Let’s divorce, Asher. May you two be bound together forever.” After saying this, I turned and left, catching the next flight back to New York City. I blocked all of Asher’s contacts. After returning, I went straight to the hospital for an abortion. Feeling the child leave my body, I was filled with mixed emotions. After the surgery, despite the doctor’s advice, I left the hospital. Enduring the pain, I went to a law firm to draft a divorce agreement. Asher could return at any time, and I didn’t have much time left. Only when I finished packing and was about to leave Asher’s family did my tears finally fall. For the rest of my life, Asher and I will have nothing to do with each other. In the hotel, Asher suddenly had a bad feeling. He thought of messaging Cora, but hesitated. She dared to hit him and even talked about divorce. It seems it’s his fault for spoiling Cora too much, making her so willful. Asher sent his assistant to inform Cora that if she admitted her mistake, this could all blow over. But the assistant replied, “Madam is gone, all her things are moved out.” “There’s a signed divorce agreement on your desk…” 5 Asher was completely taken aback on the other end of the phone. He couldn’t believe it and said, “How could this be? Cora would never leave me!” “And that divorce agreement must be forged…”

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Just after receiving the Research Award, gossip about me exploded on the Trending Topics. Photos and videos of me in compromising situations with multiple people in the lab were everywhere, my face clearly visible. In an instant, I went from a respected scientist to a public scandal. I was at a loss and wanted to seek help from my fiancé. But I overheard them mocking: “Now she’s surrounded by people, and someone even volunteered saying they’re really good at it.” “Everyone knows she’s easy to approach! Just a little gesture, and she’ll come over. As long as it’s a guy, she’ll agree!” Ethan posted new videos and photos on some obscure website again. “Who told her not to give her research results to Maeve? Doesn’t she want fame? I’ll make sure she gets her spotlight!” Looking at Ethan’s cold and disdainful face, I decided to terminate the pregnancy. “Who has the latest video? Photos will do; a friend of mine wants to see!” “Does anyone have her contact info to send over? Want to ask how much it costs to hang out, Dr. Nolan can reach out directly if he sees this!” There was another update on Twitter. “Who still remembers she was a researcher at the Sunrise Research Institute? I wouldn’t dare use the cosmetics she developed! Boycott people without principles!” You could tell this ID was Ethan’s alternate account. His intentions were clear: to kick me out of the institute so Aurelia could take over my research. The insults and accusations on Trending Topics didn’t break me, but Ethan’s attitude and expression made me feel like I was in an ice cave. Dragging my exhausted body, I took a cab to the hospital. “You’ve already decided not to have this child, haven’t you?” I thought we would get married soon and welcome new life together. Now I realize I was a joke. With tears, I touched my belly, feeling a deep sorrow. The doctor probably knew about the news online, looking at me with contempt, signed the paper, and told me to wait outside. As soon as I left the consultation room, someone with ill intentions surrounded me and blocked my path. “Dr. Nolan, what a coincidence. How much would it cost to have some fun with you? Name your price, we’ll make sure you’re satisfied!” I was looking at the form in my hand and was caught off guard when they pushed me, causing my head to hit the wall hard. I held my head, looking at the burly men surrounding me. “I’m not that kind of person! The photos and videos online are fake, it’s not me!” However, the person in front of me sneered, not believing a word I said, reaching for my shoulder. “This face can’t be faked. We understand you’re ashamed to admit doing this kind of thing. Let’s go find somewhere quiet to have some fun!” Suddenly, someone poured some unknown liquid on me, the stench going straight to my nose. “Maybe she caught something dirty and came to the hospital! Get her out of here, what if we get infected?” I wiped the stinking liquid off my face and was shoved out of the hospital’s outpatient building. Ethan appeared just in time, pulling me behind him. “Weren’t we supposed to go for the prenatal checkup together after my break? Look at you now, are you doing this on purpose to make me worry?” Aurelia stood gracefully behind Ethan, with one hand gently on her belly, the other holding an ultrasound report. “Nora? Are you hurt? Ethan has already handed over the next phase of research to me. He wants you to have a good rest for a while!” Because of this online farce, my superiors at the research institute ordered me to suspend work. I didn’t expect my research, nearing completion, to be handed over just like that! Since they like my work and my man so much, I might as well quit. I wish them a long-lasting relationship. Ethan and Aurelia’s clean and tidy clothes made me look like a scruffy beggar. I stepped back, ready to turn and go home, but Ethan blocked my way again, pinching his nose. “The report for your research needs to be checked, go back and write it now!” I looked up at Aurelia’s smug face, my heart aching with hunger. “I want to go home.” Ethan’s face darkened immediately, and he looked at me with disdain. “It’s just writing a report; don’t make it such a big deal!” He frowned at me, his tone intolerant, forcibly dragging me toward a gaming hotel. His grip was too strong for me to break free; he pushed me into the room.

Panic set in, and I tried to get up and leave immediately, only to find the door already closed. Laughter came from behind, and I looked to see two middle-aged men. “Who are you? I don’t know you at all!” The men grinned menacingly, slowly approaching me. “Aren’t you the star of the show? You actually dared to come, seems like you’re thirsty again?” “We guys like you just the way you are. Since you’re here, come play with us, let’s see if you’re like in the video.” He reached out to grab my arm. I kept banging on the door behind me, hoping someone would hear and save me. The door didn’t open, but I heard voices outside. “Thinking about you getting married makes me sad, she always gets what I want so easily.” “It’s the same at the institute. Ethan, you said you’d help me, right? I’m carrying your child too!” Ethan’s voice sounded muffled through the door. “The institute has already expelled her, just rest assured, the project lead position will be yours! If she behaves, I’ll let her have the baby.” There was no respect for me in his words. ‘Thud’ My head was pressed against the door, my neck gripped tightly, another person started tearing my clothes. The feeling of being trapped made it hard to breathe. Just as I felt I was about to die, the door suddenly opened. I fell to the ground, ready to crawl out, only to find several people standing at the door. The men behind me suddenly softened their tone. “She invited us out, nothing happened, this is entrapment!” All of a sudden, all those heated gazes focused on me. A phone appeared in front of me, along with a hand grabbing my hair. “You shameless woman! Who knows if you have some dirty disease, coming out to meet people. You just need a lesson!” “Today I’m exposing you, let’s see what kind of people are at your institute! @” Ethan suddenly came over, stopping the woman filming. “The institute has already dismissed her, what she did has nothing to do with the institute!” With Ethan’s reassurance, the people gradually dispersed. The people behind Ethan looked at me with disdain. “It’s just writing a report, and you invite people over like this. We’re not trying to criticize you.” “You can’t even spare a moment? If Ethan hadn’t explained, you’d be headed to the police station!” Ethan finally stood by my side, reaching out to help me up. “Nora, what I said earlier was out of necessity, just to calm them. You know if the institute’s reputation is ruined, our future cooperation is over.” He gazed at me sincerely, as if he truly cared for me. His friends sighed, almost pointing at my nose to scold me. “Nora, I know you have your reasons, you’re not that kind of person!” Even as he said this, he turned and told the woman who filmed to upload the video to Twitter, even buying Trending Topics for it. Suddenly, I realized how blind I was before; I only now see through such clumsy lies. Among the crowd’s disappointed gazes, Ethan spoke again. “Tonight is Aurelia’s birthday, we’re all heading over now, you should come too and post an apology video online.” Those videos weren’t me, why should I apologize? I didn’t want to fall into the trap of proving my innocence. “I’m not going, I want to go home.” Ethan frowned, staring at me sharply. “Are you really going to ignore Aurelia’s birthday? Apologizing is for your research, you don’t want your research to be buried, right?” I just wanted to go home, but he wouldn’t let me, acting as if it was for my own good. So many people criticized me, yet he wasn’t thinking about proving my innocence, but about handing my research project to Aurelia. Then, Ethan dragged me to a bar. But those disdainful gazes always lingered on me, making me nauseous. Aurelia stood in front of me, seeing this. “Today is my birthday! Nora came for me! Don’t be too harsh!” After saying this, she tried to hold my hand. Unexpectedly, Ethan half-embraced her and walked away, his face still showing disdain for me. He was really blatant! At the bar, a server brought a drink over, placing it on the floor in the corner.

“I’m sorry, Nora, they really don’t want to sit with you. This is the best we can do. You should explain online, and slowly everyone will accept you!” One of Ethan’s friends sneered. “The institute has already expelled her; having her around is bringing shame to the institute. Who could accept someone like her?” The mocking voices swirled around me, I bit my lip and looked at Ethan and Aurelia. “Happy birthday, can I go home now?” He is really shameless! At the bar, a waiter approached with a drink and placed it on the floor in the corner. “Sorry, Sister Nora, they really don’t want to sit with you. Just bear with it for now. Explain it online later, and eventually, everyone will come around!” One of Ethan’s friends sneered. “The institute has already removed her name. Her presence just tarnishes the reputation of the Sunrise Research Institute. Besides, who can accept someone like her?” The mocking voices swirled around me as I bit my lip and looked at Ethan and Aurelia. “Happy birthday. Can I leave now?” Ethan, who had been sitting since we arrived, stood up. “They’re just talking. You’re here to have fun, so don’t make a scene!” After saying this, he forced me to squat on the ground, holding the drink that was tossed there, like a discarded stray. Soon, someone came in with a mop and drove me to the farthest corner. Then Ethan forced me to record an apology video and post it on the social media platform. “It just went up! Already ten thousand comments! This is even more than top celebrities get.” Ethan glanced over, and the person quieted down. “I’ve never seen so many. They surely understand Sister-in-law!” But soon, a few popular comments were pushed to the top. [“Seriously, she’s going to a bar? Is she scouting for a new target?”] [“She starts the video squatting in the bar’s corner. Who knows what’s happening? Is she completing her master’s task?”] [“I can’t believe she has the nerve to show her face. Has the incident of seducing someone else’s husband just blown over?”] [“Don’t enter the Sunrise Research Institute again. We can’t trust those products anymore!”] … Ethan looked at me, his expression gentle. “Nora, leaving the Sunrise Research Institute is the only way to protect our child. I’m doing this for our future.” I stared hard into his eyes, feeling the sting of tears. “Ethan, do you really believe the person in the video is me?” His expression changed instantly, the gentleness turning to impatience. “Everyone thinks it’s you now. Would anyone believe your explanation? Over time, people will forget.” The video was posted from my account, sealing this stain on me. Whenever my name appears, people will remember this incident. They want to ruin my life. I glanced at Aurelia, who had a sinister smile, and suddenly smirked. The comments under that video kept increasing, hundreds more every second. “People like this should be deported!” Ethan closed his phone, ignoring the comments. “Nora, don’t worry. People will forget over time. You can stay home and focus on the pregnancy!” Aurelia suddenly approached with a toast, forcing me to down a glass of strong liquor. In the booth next to us, they were loudly celebrating Aurelia’s birthday, spewing blessings like they were free. I knelt on the ground, staring at the disgusting messages in my private inbox, feeling completely lost. “Brother Ethan, a business partner wants to meet with me. Hurry and take me to meet them.” Everyone rushed out with Aurelia in a hurry, leaving me alone in the corner. Suddenly, sharp pain radiated from my stomach, and I felt something wet below. It must have been the alcohol! The sight of red blood on my thigh shocked my senses. I endured the pain, holding my phone, and made my way to the lake. Standing at the lake’s edge, I recorded a video of myself. In the video, I looked pale, eyes determined, but with a mocking smile. [“During an avalanche, every snowflake is not innocent. If you want me to die, then I’ll fulfill your wish!”] After hitting send, I jumped into the lake with the phone, swimming out with all my might. Only through destruction can there be rebirth. I had to leave. Ethan was sitting in his office, waiting for the collaboration Aurelia was discussing. He was about to call me to come home when a friend suddenly pushed him. “Ethan, bad news, Nora jumped into the river! She posted that and then committed suicide!” 4 The man’s face suddenly froze, his pupils narrowing. “What on earth are you talking about? Stop with this nonsense!” Only then did he notice the phone being handed to him, displaying a recently posted video on the screen.

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After a decade of marriage, he remained distant and indifferent. I stood by him through tough times, so he assumed I could always handle them. “Why hire a nanny when you’re at home all day doing nothing?” His disdain was obvious. Yet he felt deep sympathy for his first love, even to the point of tears. I divorced him, split the assets, and started my own business. When we met again, he was working as a personal assistant for an older woman. 1 “Hurry up and wash these clothes; I need them for a meeting tomorrow,” Jasper said, tossing his clothes at me before heading into the bathroom. I held his shirt, my expression less than pleased. Jasper loved cleanliness; his clothes weren’t dirty and even smelled nice. But why did they have the scent of another woman’s perfume? “Hazel, why isn’t the floor mopped properly? The towel’s still wet,” Jasper shouted from the bathroom. “You’re home all day, and this is all you manage to do?” he added. When we first bought this house, I wanted to hire a housekeeper. During the early days of starting my business, I lived in the basement to save money, which left me with chronic back pain. When my mother-in-law found out, she mocked, “You think you’re some wealthy lady who needs a nanny?” “Back pain is just an excuse for being lazy. Work more, and it’ll get better.” “The house isn’t big; you can clean it yourself without wasting money on help.” I glanced at Jasper, but he was engrossed in his phone, not noticing me at all. Later, I found out that his first love announced her relationship on social media that day. 2 The next day, I got up early to prepare lunch for Jasper. He’s a real workaholic, often forgetting to eat when he’s busy. So, I decided to bring him lunch every day. That day, he actually finished it all and asked me to continue bringing it to the office. Sometimes, he would even tell me in advance what he wanted to eat. This made cooking more fulfilling for me. When I delivered the meal to the office, I ran into Daphne in the elevator. Seeing the lunchbox in my hand, she smiled and said, “Hey Hazel, bringing lunch for Mr. Lu again?” Daphne was a younger schoolmate from high school who joined Jasper’s company after graduation. On the 12th floor, she winked at me. I walked to the office door and saw through the glass a woman inside. She leaned close to Jasper, as if about to kiss him. 3 My mind went blank, and my body moved faster than my thoughts, rushing forward to pull the woman away. She was wearing high heels and stumbled when I tugged her, nearly falling. “Adeline!” Jasper rushed out from behind his desk and held her in his arms. Seeing Adeline in Jasper’s embrace was like being struck by lightning. Adeline, Jasper’s cherished first love who had gone abroad. They were the golden couple in school, famous throughout. Jasper’s deep affection for Adeline was known school-wide. Even after being with me, Adeline still had a place in his heart. Adeline was his youthful regret, and I was merely his reluctant choice. “Alright, Jasper, let go of me. Your wife is still here,” Adeline said playfully. Jasper gazed at her lovingly, then turned to me, his eyes instantly cold: “What are you doing here?” A dull pain surged in my heart. “Were you here to deliver lunch?” Adeline naturally took the lunchbox from my hand. Opening it, her eyes were full of disappointment: “This again?” “I’m tired of it,” she pouted to Jasper. I was stunned: “You’re… tired of it?” “Yes, I said the cafeteria food was bad, so Jasper gave me his lunch. Didn’t he tell you?” Jasper admitted nonchalantly: “Yeah, Adeline’s tired of it. Make different dishes next time.” He picked up his coat, stepped forward to hold Adeline’s hand: “Let’s go, we’re eating out.” “What about this lunchbox?” she waved the lunchbox in her hand. “Throw it away,” Jasper said casually. “It’s not that good anyway.” 4 Adeline threw the lunchbox into the trash right in front of me. She avoided Jasper’s hand, smiling: “Never mind, the ‘boss lady’ is here, how could I dare to have lunch with the boss alone?” She winked at Jasper and walked out of the office in her high heels. As she passed by, her gaze swept over me carelessly as if I were just a roadside rat. She seemed to inadvertently lift her hair, revealing a neck dotted with red marks—clearly kiss marks. It wasn’t until Adeline’s figure disappeared around the corner that Jasper withdrew his gaze, never looking at me once. “Aren’t you going to explain? Why is she here?” I asked, trembling. Jasper finally gave me a glance: “Her company had some issues, so she’s working as my assistant now.” “Aren’t you thrilled? Finally able to be with her day and night.” I couldn’t help but jab at him. “If you hadn’t come, I could’ve had lunch with her today and spent more time together.” He looked at me with a mocking expression. Silence flowed between us like a current, leaving us speechless for a long time. After a while, I suddenly chuckled, though my heart was full of bitterness. 5 I turned and sat on the sofa, gritting my teeth: “So what, I’m not just coming today, I’ll come every day. I want to see how bold she is to stay with a married man.” “I’m the one on your marriage certificate, the company’s ‘boss lady’,” I emphasized. Jasper sneered: “‘Boss lady’? Only you care about these empty titles.” I caught my breath, feeling like something was blocking my heart. The air fell silent again. In a fit of pique, I stayed in the office, not wanting Adeline to come looking for Jasper again. Unknowingly, I actually fell asleep on the sofa. I was woken up by pain, my stomach felt like a blade was stirring it, twisting my insides into a bloody mess. Moaning in pain, Jasper finally noticed my movement: “What trick are you pulling again…” But seeing my pale face, he suddenly fell silent. “Stomachache again?” he asked softly, then picked me up and headed downstairs. 6 Adeline was holding a stack of documents, surprised: “What’s going on?” Jasper’s tone was gentle: “Hazel’s stomach issue flared up, I’m taking her to the hospital, I’ll deal with anything else when I get back.” Seeing Adeline’s gloomy face, I felt strangely satisfied, and my stomach seemed less painful. I snuggled into his arms. As soon as we got into Jasper’s car, I sensed something was off. The car was filled with cute decorations, and on the floor were crumbs, like potato chip bits. Jasper never allowed anyone to eat in his car. Once, I just ate a piece of candy, and he was displeased. Let alone putting so many decorations in his car; I once placed a clay figure I made myself, and he threw it in the trash, saying, “It’s an eyesore.” I sniffed and took out a small bread from my bag, but before I could open it, Jasper grabbed my hand, frowning: “Eat it outside.” “I’m so hungry, I promise I won’t mess up the car.” I pleaded with him. He insisted: “Eat outside.” Maybe my stomach hurt too much, my eyes reddened, and my voice sharpened: “I want to eat now! If Adeline can eat in your car, why can’t I?” Jasper’s gaze turned cold: “She was signing a contract with me, hadn’t eaten all day, and her low blood sugar acted up. At that time, you were at home, sleeping, playing on your phone, tending to flowers.” “Why do you think you can’t?” he questioned me. I opened my mouth but couldn’t say anything. When Jasper’s company was just starting, I followed him everywhere for business and investments. At banquets, high-proof liquor was poured down my throat, leaving me with permanent stomach issues. As the company gradually improved, I wanted to work there, but Jasper’s mother stopped me: “A woman shouldn’t be out in public all the time.” So I gave up my career to stay home full-time. My heart and mind were all for Jasper. Unexpectedly, this became his reason for thinking I was inferior to Adeline now. 7 The silent atmosphere in the car was interrupted by a phone call. Jasper pulled over and tersely told me: “Get out.” “What?” I was stunned. “Adeline twisted her ankle and is in pain,” Jasper explained. “What about me? What should I do?” I panicked. “It’s less than a kilometer to the hospital. It won’t take long to walk,” His face showed growing impatience, “When did you become so delicate?” The kilometer took me nearly an hour to walk. Lying alone in the hospital bed, I watched the patient next to me, who had just had surgery, being cared for by her attentive husband. He adjusted her blanket and made her comfortable. When she couldn’t eat after surgery, her husband patiently coaxed her with a bowl. I buried myself under the blanket, trying to use sleep to divert my attention. The hospital room door opened, and I looked up. Jasper had come. I thought he couldn’t let go of me, a smile forming on my lips. But when I saw who was behind him, my smile froze. 8 Adeline walked over, looking apologetic: “Sorry Hazel, I twisted my ankle and didn’t know who else to turn to, so I called Jasper.” “I didn’t know he’d leave you on the road like that. I’ve already scolded him.” Adeline seemed angry, glaring at Jasper. Watching their interaction, I felt colder than when walking alone. Their mutual understanding and intimacy made them seem more like a couple than Jasper and I did. “Adeline knew you were in this hospital, so she came to see you,” Jasper said, seeing I was silent, with a slight annoyance. Then, he handed me a menu: “Mom’s birthday is in three days, make a few dishes and get a cake.” “I didn’t know he would leave you alone on the street. I’ve already given him a piece of my mind.” Adeline glared at Jasper, clearly annoyed. Watching them interact made me feel even more isolated than when I was walking alone earlier. Their understanding and closeness made them seem more like a couple than Jasper and I ever did. “Adeline heard you were at this hospital and came specifically to see you.” Jasper looked at me with some displeasure when I didn’t respond. Then, he handed me a recipe. “Mom’s birthday is in three days. Go home, cook some dishes, and get a cake.” Adeline glanced at the recipe and exclaimed, “Wow, that’s a lot of dishes. I can’t make any of them. Hazel, you’re amazing.” Jasper joked, “If you want to learn, have Hazel teach you. She’s always in the kitchen, so she’s most familiar with these.” Adeline laughed and shook her head. “No way, I’m a modern independent woman. I’m not going to spend my days cooking and cleaning for others.” Her words pierced my heart like a thorn. I once had dreams of pursuing a career, but now I’m just someone who’s always in the kitchen. — Three days later, I went to my mother-in-law’s house alone. She didn’t even look up and directly instructed, “Go make dinner, and remember to use less salt.” I spent the whole morning in the kitchen, finally bringing the last dish to the table. Jasper finally arrived, with Adeline following behind him. My mother-in-law warmly greeted, “Adeline, come in and sit.” She held her hand and chatted, clearly liking Adeline very much. Adeline, with her flattering words, made my mother-in-law laugh and smile. I stood beside them, nervously twisting my apron, feeling completely out of place. My mother-in-law glanced at me and instructed, “Adeline loves tomato beef stew. Go make another serving.” I silently walked into the kitchen. It was another rainy day, and my back was starting to ache. Forty minutes later, I brought the dish to the table. My mother-in-law kept serving Adeline food, and Jasper poured her soup. From afar, they really looked like a happy family of three. I walked towards Adeline, but suddenly tripped. I couldn’t hold the plate steady, and hot soup spilled all over my arm, instantly reddening and swelling it. At the same time, Adeline shrieked as some soup splashed on her arm too. Jasper jumped up, and my mother-in-law yelled at me, “You can’t even handle such a small task! Worthless!” She raised her hand to hit me. Jasper stopped her, “Mom, take care of Adeline’s hand first.” She found some burn ointment and carefully applied it to Adeline, gently reminding her to avoid water. I returned to the room alone, my arm hurting so much that I couldn’t stop crying. Jasper pushed open the door and entered, holding a tube of burn ointment. “You got burned too, didn’t you?” “My mom can be blunt. Don’t mind her,” he said. “Besides… it really was your fault today. You couldn’t even hold a plate properly.” He added. Noticing my silence, he sighed and left the room, probably to comfort Adeline. After all, she was always delicate and afraid of pain. Back in high school, even a paper cut on her hand would make Jasper worry endlessly, I thought sarcastically. Sitting for a while, I started feeling hungry. I hadn’t eaten a single bite of the feast I prepared. Just as I opened the door, I saw Adeline. She stood there with her arms crossed, smiling as if watching a good show. — Ignoring Adeline’s intentions didn’t work. She spoke softly, “Hazel, I really admire your thick skin. After all this, you still shamelessly stick around Jasper.” I paused and looked back at her, my gaze firm. “Aren’t you the shameless one? When Jasper was a poor kid, you chose to go abroad and abandon him. Now that he’s powerful, you come running back.” She sneered, “So what? As long as I beckon, he comes running like a puppy.” She coldly replied, “If I were you, I’d wisely choose to divorce. At least that way, you’d get a decent settlement.” “What if I don’t want a divorce?” I challenged her. “As long as I don’t divorce, you’ll always be the secret affair.” Her expression changed, and she snapped, “The once high and mighty lady now enjoys being a hidden mistress.” Saying this, she raised her hand to slap me. I quickly grabbed her hand, but she showed a satisfied grin. The next moment, she deliberately fell backward, tumbling down the stairs. “Adeline!” Jasper rushed over, shoving me aside harshly, and my forehead hit the railing. Trembling, I touched my forehead, and the sight of blood stung my eyes. Jasper picked up Adeline, his gaze colder than ever. “If anything happens to Adeline, I’ll make you pay a hundredfold.” “Jasper!” I called to him, enduring the pain. “There are cameras here.” He paused but still left with Adeline in his arms. I went home alone, hastily bandaging my forehead. Late at night, Jasper returned and slipped into bed, bringing a chill that made me shiver. “Adeline’s fine. It’s just that her foot injury from a few days ago worsened from falling down the stairs today. She might need to stay in the hospital a bit longer,” he said casually, his hand wandering on me. I smelled perfume on him and felt a sudden wave of nausea. With Adeline in the hospital, unable to fulfill his needs, he sought me instead. Just as I was about to push him away, the phone rang, breaking the silence. I answered it, frozen by the news on the other end. The thunder outside crashed down at that moment, and the rain that had brewed all day poured down, as if weeping for my plight. 11 “What’s wrong?” I held Jasper’s hand tightly. “My dad… he… he…” My voice caught in my throat, unable to continue. By the time I quickly changed my clothes, Jasper was already waiting in the car.

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I was Declan’s personal secretary for five years. We never talked about love but shared intimate moments until the person who held his heart returned. He let me go. I had anticipated this day, so I calmly packed my things without causing a scene. The next day, he regretted it and cried. Half an hour ago, the news from HR was a heavy blow: I was fired. A colleague sympathetically patted my shoulder, saying, “We did our best, but the outcome couldn’t be changed.” The news didn’t shock me; instead, I felt a sense of calm acceptance. Last week, whispers began circulating around the company: Declan, our CEO, got engaged to the heiress of White Corporation, his ex-girlfriend and the unforgettable love of his life. Now that his dream had come true, the “extra person” by his side naturally had to be removed. Even though my relationship with Declan was never made public, everyone in the company knew there was something between us. Because of this, no one dared to touch me except Declan himself. I received the notice in the morning and completed all handovers by the afternoon. The colleague taking over my role looked worried, constantly lamenting, “Adeline, what will the secretary department do without you?” Declan’s temper is notorious—unpredictable and irritable. Even the wrong temperature for his coffee could set him off. As the department closest to him, we often bore the brunt of his outbursts. However, since I arrived five years ago, things changed. From making coffee to ordering meals, delivering reports, and even calming his temper when other departments made mistakes, I handled it all. My colleagues often said these past five years were the easiest under Declan. I smiled and demonstrated once, “Get the water temperature right, and Mr. Declan won’t complain.” “I heard there’s someone in the company who knows Declan particularly well, even called his exception. That’s you, right?” said a voice from behind. I turned around. Phoebe removed her sunglasses, her gaze sharp. The colleague holding coffee quickly lowered her head and left. I smiled and greeted her, “You’re joking, Ms. White. If I were an exception, I wouldn’t be standing here today.” “In the company, isn’t it only those who are lacking who get fired?” That remark seemed to infuriate Phoebe. She suddenly grabbed the kettle on the table and splashed hot water towards me, sneering, “Let’s see if your sharp tongue can handle this hot water!” The hot water splashed on me, and my skin turned red instantly. Luckily, Declan always preferred his coffee not too hot; otherwise, the consequences would have been unimaginable. At that moment, Declan appeared. He walked over to Phoebe with a smile, gently adjusting the hair on her forehead. Phoebe clung to his arm, openly saying, “I had a little conflict with a company employee and couldn’t help but splash her with hot water.” Declan finally glanced at me, his eyes cold and indifferent, as if looking at a stranger. “If she’s splashed, she’s splashed. I’ll have someone compensate her. No need to delay our plans over someone insignificant.” “I’ve ordered your favorite crawfish, let’s go soon.” They walked past me, Phoebe’s gaze full of ridicule. Whether it was the sting of the hot water or the hidden pain in my heart, my chest felt like it was being cut by a knife. But this pain—I never want to feel it again…

After leaving the company, I didn’t go straight home. Instead, I walked into a quiet café. Asher was already there, absentmindedly stirring his coffee. “Hello, Mr. Zhou,” I greeted softly. “I’ve resigned from Declan Corporation and can join your company anytime.” Hearing my voice, Asher stopped what he was doing, looked up, and gave a gentle smile. “Welcome, Miss Adeline. But no rush about work. I understand you had a special relationship with Declan. Now that he’s getting married, you might need some time to adjust. I’ll give you three days to sort out personal matters. Can you start after that?” I frowned slightly. Although I knew my situation with Declan couldn’t remain entirely secret, I didn’t expect everyone in their circle to know. Asher was the one who reached out to me after I left Declan Corporation, offering very favorable terms. Honestly, I couldn’t believe it at first After all, at Declan Corporation, I was just a secretary with an ambiguous status—not worth such treatment. “Mr. Zhou, may I ask why you’re offering me such generous terms?” I couldn’t help but ask. Asher remained calm, took a sip of coffee, and gave me an answer that made me half-believe. “I understand Declan. If Miss Adeline can be his secretary for five years, then being a department manager in our company is more than enough. Also, I hope Miss Adeline won’t have any ‘unexpected’ entanglements with our partners after joining.” After some thought, I finally accepted Asher’s offer. After all, the benefits were tempting, and I needed the money now. Just as I nodded in agreement, a familiar cold laugh came from behind. Declan walked into the café, holding Phoebe’s hand. I knew him too well. Whenever he laughed like that, it meant he was angry—really angry. “Mr. Zhou, long time no see. Even the people my company doesn’t want, the Zhou Corporation is willing to take?” “But let me remind Mr. Zhou, this person isn’t honest and loves money. Be cautious as an employee.” I listened quietly to every word Declan said about me. My fingers clenched under the table, almost piercing into my skin. In fact, the moment Declan fired me, I didn’t hate him. After all, what we had was just a five-year transaction. He gave me money, and I accompanied him in bed. But I didn’t understand why, even after leaving Declan Corporation, he still had to be so aggressive. I bit my lip hard, holding back the sting in my nose, trying not to let tears fall. “Mr. Declan, if I really stole from Declan Corporation, you can call the police. But don’t slander me!” Declan glanced at me coldly, saying nothing more. But Phoebe laughed and stepped forward. “Miss Adeline, it’s just a joke. Why so serious? Are you saying today’s compensation isn’t enough and you want more?” Saying this, she pulled out a wad of cash from her bag and threw it at me. “I heard your mom is still in the hospital waiting for money to save her life, right? But don’t throw away your dignity. This money is a reward for you!”

As Phoebe finished her words, the wad of cash hit my face harshly. One of the corners cut my right cheek, leaving a shallow scratch. The surrounding gazes focused on me—some sympathetic, some mocking, and some undisguised malice. “She’s now an employee of Zhou Corporation and has nothing to do with Declan Corporation,” Asher said coldly, suddenly looking at Phoebe. Phoebe instinctively stepped back, hiding behind Declan. It was the first time I saw Declan so tense about someone. He immediately protected Phoebe, facing Asher. Finally, he glanced at me nonchalantly, saying, “Isn’t it just a scratch on the face? Consider this compensation, she still profits.” With that, Declan squinted at me. I knew he was warning me to stop while I was ahead. If I didn’t accept it, he had ways to make things worse for me. The five years of feelings never left any mark in his heart. He never had any true feelings for me. I forced a smile, humiliated, and picked up the money from the ground piece by piece. “Don’t worry, Mr. Declan, I profited.” Each word was squeezed out through clenched teeth; my gums were bleeding. Phoebe sneered, “Really like a lapdog!” I clenched my teeth, the soft flesh inside my mouth nearly bitten through, the metallic taste of blood spreading on my tongue. I didn’t dare look up, knowing how pathetic and ridiculous I must seem. In the end, Asher sighed, took my hand, and led me out of the café. “Take a good rest for three days. I’ll be waiting for you at Zhou Corporation.” Back at the apartment, Declan’s jacket was still on the messy bed. I began tidying up, collecting all his things, and putting them in a box. I planned to return them to him or just throw them away. After a few hours, I realized the whole apartment was filled with traces of him over the past five years. The toothbrush and towel in the bathroom, the plants on the windowsill, the apron in the kitchen… Unknowingly, I had treated him as a real boyfriend over these five years, not just a part of a transaction. Although I didn’t want to admit it, this was the reality. The lock clicked, and the familiar figure appeared before me, as always. Declan immediately noticed the things I packed for him, coldly mocking, “Found a new backer, and now you can’t wait to kick your old patron out?” “Adeline, are you that cheap? Can’t live without money?” I bit my lip hard, the deep imprint clearly visible. So, in Declan’s heart, I was just that kind of despicable person. But none of this mattered anymore. Although I don’t want to admit it, this is the reality. The door lock suddenly clicked, and a familiar figure appeared before me, just like always. Declan glanced at the things I had packed for him and scoffed, “Found a new patron already? Can’t wait to kick your old benefactor out, huh?” “Adeline, are you really so desperate? Can’t live without money?” I bit my lower lip hard, leaving deep, visible teeth marks. So, in Declan’s mind, I’m just this despicable person. But none of this matters anymore. A heart that’s already dead can’t be brought back to life. “We agreed on five years from the start. Now that the time is up and you’re getting married, I won’t hold you back.” “Besides, I’ve already resigned from Declan Corporation. Mr. Declan, you have no reason to stay with me anymore, right?” He said nothing, his face frighteningly grim as he sat on the sofa, his fingers lightly tapping the armrest. I quickly pushed the packed things in front of him. “I’ve packed everything. You can take it when you leave.” As soon as I finished speaking, Declan’s expression darkened even more. I had no idea what had upset him. Just like a reflex from the past five years, I quickly ran through all the possible reasons he might be mad. Finally, I remembered something and said to him, “I’ll also give up this apartment, don’t worry. As for the past five years, I won’t say a word, nor will I spread gossip in front of Miss White, and I won’t bother you again.” Declan paused, his expression unreadable in the dim light. Soon, he sneered, leaned over, and pinched my chin. In no time, a red mark appeared on my chin. “It’s best if you’re this sensible, or you’ll regret it!” “I don’t want these things. You’ve touched them, and I find them dirty!” With that, Declan turned and walked out. His words took my breath away, and I couldn’t hold back the tears in my eyes, which fell one by one. I closed my eyes, letting the tears fall. And he never looked back.

Over the next two days, I contacted the landlord to give up my old apartment. Then I found a new one near Asher Corporation. After finally moving, I took some time to visit the hospital. Mom was the same, lying in bed, unable to wake up. Ever since a car accident five years ago, Mom has been in a coma. She relies on hospital equipment to barely stay alive. As usual, I massaged her body to improve circulation. Then, as the doctor instructed, I slowly told Mom about my recent events. “Mom, I’ve left Declan Corporation and got a new job.” “This time, the new job pays better, so don’t worry about me. Just focus on recovering and waking up soon.” After everything, the equipment monitoring Mom showed no significant changes. Leaving the hospital, I rushed to Asher Corporation. Even though it hadn’t been three days, I chose to start working early. With Asher’s instructions, I breezed through the onboarding process at Asher Corporation. To quickly get familiar with the job, I worked overtime on the first day and stayed late. By the time I got home, it was already very late. Lying in bed, I took out my phone, and former colleagues from the Declan Corporation’s secretary department started complaining in our small group chat. [Mr. Declan seems off today, his temper’s terrible. Without Adeline, we can’t manage him!] [One moment it’s the temperature, the next it’s the lack of water, and then not enough coffee. Adeline, I followed your notes exactly, yet he still found a bunch of faults.] [Same here, got yelled at all day. I don’t want to work here anymore!] After reading for a while, I didn’t reply to any messages and turned off my phone. Since I’ve left Declan Corporation, Declan’s habits are no longer my concern. In the following days, I fully immersed myself in work at Asher Corporation. Soon, Asher assigned me a task to create a proposal. Fortunately, I’ve always worked in the secretary department, so handling proposals is something I’m used to. After several days of overtime, my dark circles couldn’t be hidden, with my eyes looking bruised. On the day of the project bidding, Asher asked me to attend with him. The main competitor for this project was Declan’s Declan Corporation. At this project event. Declan and Phoebe were the center of attention, with many people congratulating them. It seemed like they had already won the project. When Asher and I appeared, we quickly caught the attention of Declan and Phoebe. Our eyes met, each harboring our own thoughts. Phoebe smirked, directly mocking me. “Mr. Asher, your proposal isn’t done by Miss Zhang, is it? You better be careful; this Zhang woman only knows how to scam your money and can’t make any proposals. Otherwise, why would Declan Corporation have fired her?” “And she’s not a good person, trying to seduce our Declan but got rejected. Now she’s tricking Mr. Asher.” Her voice was loud, as if afraid others wouldn’t hear. Soon, it drew a lot of attention, with murmurs rising. I clenched my fists and gritted my teeth in defense. “I wasn’t fired because of my skills, and I didn’t try to seduce Mr. Declan!” As soon as I finished speaking. Phoebe took out her phone and played an audio clip. The clip was edited, leaving just one sentence from me and one from Declan. I said, “I won’t speak of anything between us.” Then Declan’s refusal followed. “I find it dirty!” I turned sharply to look at him. Declan’s eyes avoided mine. Phoebe laughed arrogantly and asked me. “With evidence, Adeline, what else do you have to say?” 5 The laughter at the banquet suddenly intensified. Everyone was giving me malicious looks.

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Gideon’s beloved Lydia had given birth to his third child. On our tenth wedding anniversary, he brought yet another child conceived outside our marriage and said calmly: “Lydia’s child is the future heir of Gideon’s family. As Mrs. Gideon, it’s your duty to teach them well.” I didn’t react with tears or anger as I had before—I simply took the baby calmly. The guests erupted into laughter. “I heard she made quite a fuss the last two times, but this time she’s learned her lesson.” “With the Quentin family bankrupt, she knows a scene won’t help. Without her own child, she’ll be out sooner or later.” Gideon ignored their mockery and insults. I swallowed my bitterness and managed a smile: “Gideon, let’s get a divorce.” Gideon laughed, as though he’d heard the most ridiculous joke: “Nora, if you can come up with a billion dollars right now, I’ll sign immediately. Otherwise, stop pretending!” Without replying, I dialed an unfamiliar number: “I accept your terms.” A cultured voice responded with a gentle laugh: “A mere billion dollars. I can pay it for you anytime.”

“But are you sure you want to give yourself to me for a man who isn’t worth it?” The whispers of the guests cut into me like knives: “I heard the Quentin family is drowning in debt, surviving only on Mr. Gideon’s charity.” “She’s like a stray dog. Without Gideon’s family, she’d be on the streets tomorrow.” Looking at the child in my arms, I felt a wave of sadness. In ten years of marriage, Gideon and his childhood sweetheart, Phoebe, had three children for me to raise. Six years ago, I broke down when I refused. Gideon didn’t relent, using my family’s survival as leverage. Three years ago, when I resisted again, he took away my documents and kicked me out. In the freezing winter, I returned, crying and begging for his forgiveness. We loved each other when we were young. He even took a bullet for me once. But now, as we’ve grown to loathe each other, it’s time to end it. “I’m sure.” The man laughed joyfully: “In three days, everything will be as you wish.” The call ended, and I stayed silent for a long time. Seeing my red eyes, Gideon’s mocking expression softened slightly: “Nora, raising Lydia’s children to be healthy and strong is most important. As long as you behave, the position of Mrs. Gideon will always be yours. Don’t make trouble, okay?” He rarely coaxed me, but it was for someone else. I was too tired to argue and turned to leave with the child. Returning to Gideon’s family, a picture book hit my forehead, nearly making me drop the baby. Six-year-old Ezra, their first child, glared at me angrily: “Why didn’t you heat my milk?” I endured the pain and looked at the two nannies picking their nails. One rolled her eyes: “Mr. Gideon said taking care of the young master is the madam’s job. Don’t blame me for your laziness.” Right… This was all Gideon’s doing. He deliberately arranged for me to care for his and Phoebe’s children, calling it “the responsibility of Mrs. Gideon.” I remembered when Ezra had a high fever. I stayed awake for three days and nights to care for him. When he had chickenpox, I was covered in ointment to keep him company in isolation. Despite the disputes between Gideon, Phoebe, and me, the children were innocent. The child I raised with love now looked at me with hatred. Blood ties are stronger than water. To them, I was just a servant to push around. I eventually heated his milk, but as I handed it to him, he knocked it over forcefully. “Can’t you even take care of a child?” Gideon returned, his cold voice coming from behind. He pushed me aside: “What if Ezra gets burned?” My throat tightened. I’d tested the milk’s temperature. It couldn’t have burned him, especially since I was the one who got splashed. Ezra made a face at me and ran to Gideon: “Dad, Mom is clumsy. When will you take me out to play?” Gideon fondly ruffled his hair: “In three days, we’ll go out with Auntie Phoebe and take your siblings.” Phoebe’s smile froze when she heard this, but she clung tighter to Gideon’s arm. I noticed a jade ring on her finger—something my mother left Gideon before she died. There was a billion-dollar transaction behind my marriage contract with Gideon. Thirteen years ago, when I was in love with Gideon, who wasn’t yet in control of Gideon’s family, I was mistakenly diagnosed with terminal stomach cancer. To prevent affecting his fight for the family business, I broke up with him under the guise of family opposition. Later, when my family was on the brink of bankruptcy, Gideon arrived with a billion dollars, saying if I married him, he’d save my family from ruin. I was naïve then, thinking he loved me and we’d rekindle our romance. I never realized he came with hatred. My mother entrusted the ring to him on her deathbed, and he promised with teary eyes to treat me well. Now, that ring on Phoebe’s hand was the biggest mockery to me. “Sister, Gideon said I look good wearing this.” She noticed my gaze and shook her hand with a smile. “After all, he said you don’t need to dress up while taking care of the kids, so wearing these is a waste.” Gideon casually added, “It would just gather dust otherwise.” My heart was heavy with unspeakable bitterness. I just wanted to turn and leave. “Oh no!” Phoebe suddenly exclaimed. The ring fell to the ground and shattered. I instinctively reached for it but blacked out, hitting the coffee table. As blood trickled down my forehead, I caught a glimpse of Gideon’s panicked face. He frowned and instinctively reached out to help me, but Phoebe suddenly cried out in pain, twisting her ankle. He immediately shifted his attention, lifting her up like a princess. And I fell to the floor.

“Oh dear, sister, why are you so careless?” Phoebe leaned against Gideon, her voice sickeningly sweet. “Gideon, should we call a doctor to check on her?” Gideon frowned, glanced at me, hesitated for a moment, then spoke impatiently: “It’s just a scratch. Stop making a fuss.” He turned and took Phoebe and their children upstairs to rest. I walked alone to my storage room, hearing the nannies’ undisguised laughter behind me: “Why put on airs like a madam in front of me? She didn’t die from the fall!” I curled up on the small bed, drifting into a painful sleep. The wound on my forehead still ached. Footsteps approached outside. Then Gideon’s cold voice came through: “Behave tomorrow at the old man’s 80th birthday.” I didn’t answer. The door was suddenly pushed open, and Gideon stood in the doorway with a medical kit. Before I could react, he roughly pulled me up, his grip making me frown. “Know it hurts but don’t apply medicine?” He sneered at my wound but took out an alcohol pad skillfully. “Planning on showing the old man your sorry state tomorrow for sympathy?” “Gideon,” I asked softly, “why did you marry me?” He paused, then sarcastically pinched my chin: “Because you needed Gideon’s family’s billion dollars.” In the darkness, I laughed silently through tears. I should have known he didn’t marry me out of love. For ten years, he resented my parents for breaking us up, not knowing I left due to a false cancer diagnosis. By the time I wanted to tell the truth, he already hated me deeply. I took a divorce agreement from my bag and placed it on the bed. I’d brought up divorce several times over the years, but it never succeeded. With my family bankrupt, and Gideon keeping me at home to care for the kids, I had no way to gather the billion dollars he demanded for my freedom. He knew this well, never taking my requests seriously. He said impatiently: “Nora, are you done making a scene?” “This time is real.” I spoke softly but firmly. “I’ll find a way to get the money and pay you back. Even if you don’t believe me, about you…” Phoebe’s coquettish voice suddenly came from upstairs: “Gideon~ Where did you put my pink lingerie~?” Gideon immediately released me, crumpling the agreement and tossing it in the trash: “Enough, you’ve squandered all your dowry over the years. Who else but me would give you a billion dollars?” The door slammed shut. The next day, I forced myself to put on makeup, covering the wound on my forehead, and attended the birthday banquet. But Gideon’s assistant seated me in the last row, with the drivers and nannies. “Oh, isn’t this Mrs. Gideon?” A wealthy lady passed by, covering her mouth with a laugh. “What are you doing sitting here?” I sat in silence, hearing whispers behind me: “I heard Gideon brought another child home. Miss Phoebe is truly blessed with many children, no wonder she’s favored.” “Indeed, even as the legitimate wife, she’s now seated with the help. How embarrassing.” I clenched my napkin, fingers turning white. Moments later, Gideon strode over with Phoebe behind him: “Who told you to sit here?” The assistant said: “Miss Phoebe said you arranged for the madam to sit here.” Phoebe’s face turned pale with panic, but Gideon just frowned, saying nothing. She smiled smugly again. I followed Gideon to greet the old man. He kindly spoke a few words to me, then turned to Phoebe, displeased: “Not just anyone can enter Gideon’s family. Don’t bring random people here again.” Phoebe’s face turned ashen. At that moment, Ezra and Willa suddenly clung to her, calling her auntie sweetly. “Who allowed you to sit here?” The assistant replied, “Ms. Lin said you arranged for ma’am to sit here.” Phoebe’s face immediately showed panic, but Gideon just frowned and said nothing. She smiled smugly again. I followed Gideon to greet the old man. After a few kind words, he turned to see Phoebe and said disapprovingly, “Not just anyone can walk into Gideon’s family. Don’t bring such unwelcome guests next time.” Phoebe’s face turned pale. At this moment, Ezra and Willa suddenly jumped on her, sweetly calling her auntie. Phoebe’s expression softened a lot since she had given birth to three children for Gideon. Even if the old man didn’t like her, he would still show her respect for the children’s sake. The old man snorted and called Gideon away. I was about to get up and leave when Phoebe suddenly pressed my shoulder with a cold smile, “Sister, let’s play a game.”

Phoebe took out a thermos from her handbag and suddenly grabbed Willa’s wrist away from everyone’s sight. “Good girl,” she said, covering the child’s eyes, “Mommy’s going to do a magic trick.” “No!” I rushed forward to stop her, but she shoved me away. The next second, a piercing cry echoed through the hall. Willa’s fair arm instantly became red and blistered, and Phoebe quickly shoved the thermos into my hand. “Help!” Phoebe fell to her knees, holding the heartbrokenly crying Willa tightly, “Sister, if you have any grievances, come at me. Why scald Willa with boiling water? She’s just a child!” I was completely stunned, not expecting her to be so devious as to frame me and even harm her own child! Gideon rushed over, saw Willa’s injuries, and without thinking, kicked me to the ground, shouting angrily, “How could you harm such a young child! Are you even human?” Gideon called the family doctor to treat Willa’s wounds. Suddenly, Ezra started crying loudly. I lay on the ground, struggling to get up, trembling as I reached for Ezra, “Ezra, baby, don’t be afraid… tell Daddy… who just…” Before I could finish, Ezra hid behind Gideon in terror, crying, “It was Mommy! She poured hot water on Sister! I’m scared!” I froze instantly, my outstretched hand dropping weakly. “Are you really this jealous just because I brought Lydia to a party once? They’re the kids you raised yourself!” I opened my mouth, the taste of blood growing stronger in my throat, finally turning into a barely audible laugh. I looked into Gideon’s furious eyes, “Gideon, do you really believe this?” “He’s only six. Can he lie?” The guests around started whispering. Some called me “vicious,” others said, “No wonder you can’t have kids, with such a cruel heart.” The crowd’s accusations drowned me, but what hurt more was Gideon’s hateful gaze piercing my heart. To him, I was nothing but a jealous and vicious woman. Phoebe leaned into Gideon’s arms, eyes red, “Sister, if you’re sick, you need treatment. How could you do something so cruel?” Ezra’s cries grew louder, saying he was scared just seeing me. Gideon pointed at me and shouted, “Nora, get out of here where we can’t see you!” I wiped the blood from my mouth, stood up shakily, and took the divorce agreement I always carried out of my bag, smiling bitterly, “It’s time to leave… sign it, and I’ll leave quietly.” Gideon’s anger grew, and he stood up, tearing the divorce agreement and throwing it in my face, “Without ten billion, don’t even think about leaving! You’ll be my wife for life, Nora!” Outside, the rain poured down as I staggered into it, the cold rain mixing with my tears. Ten years of marriage, sincerity, and patience—shouldn’t it end when I get the money tomorrow? The next second, everything went black, and I fell down the stairs. Just as I thought I would hit the ground, I was suddenly caught in a warm, strong embrace. “I was only late for a moment, and you made yourself this miserable, hmm?” When I woke up again, I was in a hospital. The man in front of me was handsome, the current head of Carter Group, Declan Carter. I was about to speak when I noticed a familiar diamond cufflink on his suit sleeve, the gift I gave to a life-saver on my eighteenth birthday. “You finally recognize me? I didn’t waste years loving you.” Declan leaned in, his voice deep and magnetic. Memories surged back: when I was eighteen, I was kidnapped, and a young man risked his life to save me. Before leaving, I gave him my most precious birthday gift… “It’s you…” My voice trembled as I instinctively tried to sit up, but he suddenly looked tense and supported me, “Careful, the doctor said you’re pregnant, eight weeks.” I froze completely. The timing was just right; it was Gideon’s last time with me when he was drunk and mistook me for Phoebe. Declan chuckled coldly, “Interesting, Gideon kicked you out, not knowing his wife is pregnant with his child.” He smirked and looked at me with intense eyes, “But soon it won’t be his.” I was overwhelmed by the barrage of news, “What?” Declan laughed, “The ten billion has already been transferred; whether he signs or not, he has to.”

At that moment, Gideon was sitting in the villa garden, watching Phoebe and the two children playing on the lawn. “How could sister not come back all night, how could she be so petty with you, the baby cried at night and it broke my heart.” Gideon sneered, about to speak when his phone vibrated. He casually opened the message, still thinking about how to teach me a lesson when I got back. But the message froze his smile instantly— [Your account has received a transfer of 1,000,000,000.00 RMB, memo: divorce settlement] “Gideon?” Phoebe sensed something was wrong and reached for his phone. “What’s happening?” Gideon reread the message, disbelief etched on his face, before leaping up from his seat. Ezra nearly toppled over and began to cry loudly in fright. He shoved Phoebe away, staring intently at the message, his fingers trembling uncontrollably. One billion… Could Nora really have gathered one billion? “That’s impossible,” he muttered, immediately calling the bank for confirmation. “Mr. Gideon, the amount has indeed been credited from the Carter Group’s overseas account.”

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People say I’m the white moonlight of Gideon, the overbearing president. I spent seven years abroad, and during that time, I heard that Gideon dated numerous women who resembled me. I couldn’t care less. When we broke up, we agreed to go our separate ways, so there’s no point in pretending there’s still something deep between us. When my stomach condition landed me in the hospital, Gideon showed up with a girlfriend who bore a slight resemblance to me, suggesting she donate a kidney to me. I said, “That’s absolutely unnecessary.” I had no interest in either Gideon or his girlfriend. But surprisingly, a few days later, his girlfriend secretly came to me for help. … In the karaoke bar room, a group of people was being loud and chaotic, dancing wildly. “Come on, let’s raise our glasses to celebrate the return of Mr. Gideon’s ‘white moonlight,’ Miss Nora!” As soon as they said that, the room filled with laughter and scattered blessings. A blond guy held a microphone in one hand and a glass in the other. I lifted my foot from the sofa and kicked him right on the butt. “Jasper, watch your words. Who allowed you to add random adjectives in front of your sister’s name?” Jasper took a big tumble, and the laughter in the room grew louder. My best friend, Hazel, suddenly whispered in my ear. “Nora, you have no idea. Mr. Gideon is crazy about you. Over the years you’ve been abroad, he’s dated countless lovers who all looked like you.” I scoffed cynically, “Who still plays the game of unattainable love these days?” “Sure, I was the one who suggested breaking up, but he agreed too. Even after I went abroad, if he really liked me, wouldn’t he come find me? Can’t Mr. Gideon afford a plane ticket? You visited me four or five times a year.” Hazel looked at me with a realization, as if she had suddenly understood something incredible. My parents’ company used to have a significant position in the New York social circle. But who knew we’d be betrayed and go bankrupt overnight? My father had to take us and our last savings overseas, seeking refuge with my grandparents. Thankfully, after seven years of hard work, my father regained his footing in the business world. This time, we’re back to expand our domestic business. Gideon was my first love. Everyone said we were the perfect couple. I thought we’d marry and spend our lives together. But then my father went bankrupt unexpectedly. During that time, I was as anxious as my father and became irritable. We argued with Gideon every few days. Later, when my father decided to go abroad, we naturally broke up. There was no tragic love story, just reality, bad timing, and a lack of fate. Seven years have passed. The feelings are long gone. He’s had one lover after another, and I’ve almost had a team of boyfriends. These are old stories. Everyone should move on. Just then, the room door opened. “Nora, why didn’t you contact me when you returned? Do you know how hard I’ve waited for you?” The man had sharp brows and starry eyes, a tall figure, clearly charismatic. But now, his eyes were red, like a discarded big dog. “Gideon?” I exclaimed in surprise. I saw Hazel give me a mischievous look, mouthing words silently, but I understood her after years of friendship. “What did I say?” I felt a bit awkward. Could the slap in the face come this quickly? What was Gideon playing at? I planned to welcome Gideon in. But as soon as I stood up, a sharp pain twisted in my stomach, and cold sweat drenched my bangs. Just my luck. I must’ve aggravated my chronic stomach condition by drinking on an empty stomach. I didn’t bring any stomach medicine. That was my last thought before everything went black, and I fainted. When I woke up, I saw a pale ceiling and had an IV drip in my hand. “You’re awake. You scared me to death.” I turned my head slightly; it was Hazel. Memories of last night slowly returned. “It’s nothing, just my old stomach problem. You brought me here last night, right? Thanks for the trouble.” Hazel’s eyes, originally filled with worry and concern, turned ambiguous when she heard me. I had a bad feeling. “I wanted to, but as soon as I called 911, Gideon carried you out. You should’ve seen his terrifying look, as if he’d drag everyone down with him if anything happened to you.” I pulled a corner of my mouth, admiring her imagination. Could it really be that dramatic? But the next second, I couldn’t laugh anymore. The hospital room door opened, and in came a man and a woman. The man was Gideon, with a gloomy face. I didn’t know the woman, but she had a pained and desperate look. Before I could speak, Gideon let go of the woman’s hand. His previously fierce eyes suddenly became gentle. “Nora, don’t be scared. I took her for a check-up, and her kidney is a match for you. I’ll take you for more detailed tests later. I’ll make sure you’re cured.” His words shocked me. Never mind whether this was legal, but why would I need her kidney? “Gideon, I have a stomach illness. What’s it got to do with my kidney?” Gideon’s face froze at my words, a bit embarrassed at his mistake. “No worries, you might need it someday. Better safe than sorry.” I was stunned again, shocked by his outrageous words. I looked at the trembling girl beside him and said, “Don’t jinx me. I prefer to keep my original parts.” At this point, I looked closely at the girl. She really did resemble me by about sixty percent. Remembering what Hazel said and all the rumors, could this world be a giant CEO romance novel? “Nora, take care and rest. I’ll come by again in the afternoon.” With that, he left with the girl. “Did you see? That girl, Gideon’s new flame, Phoebe, looks a lot like you.” Hearing that name, I paused. Memories, almost forgotten, surged in my mind. I knew her, Phoebe, a college classmate of Gideon and me. Though Gideon pursued me openly, his charm was undeniable. Not only was he handsome and rich, but he was also top of the class and a star on the basketball court. He always had admirers. He used to place his bag and clothes on my seat, making others think it was his spot. My desk was often filled with love letters for him from other girls. Seeing me jealous, he’d laugh happily. When I was really about to get mad, he’d hold my face and say, “I only love you.” Phoebe was one of Gideon’s admirers. I remembered her not for her resemblance to me but for her love letter. Once, while grabbing a book from my desk, I noticed a red stain. I thought a red pen had leaked, but I found an envelope with red marks. Curiosity got the better of me, and I opened it. The words inside were so chilling that my hand trembled. The dark red letters resembled red ink or blood. The writing was smudged, but I could vaguely make out “responsible,” “love you,” “beg you.” The signature was clear, written in black: “Phoebe.” As I frowned, trying to make sense of it, Gideon hugged me from behind, asking what had me so engrossed. He snatched the letter and tossed it in the trash. “Some people keep writing these things. It’s pointless. Don’t look. You know you’re the only one in my heart.” As a young girl, I was naturally swept off my feet by his words. Later, in casual chats with friends, I heard Phoebe’s name again. They said she gave birth to a stillborn baby in the school bathroom, and no one knew who the father was. Her parents caused a scene at school for two days, and rumors flew among classmates. It was Gideon’s family who paid to hush it up. I had marveled at the Gideon family’s wealth and generosity. Seeing Phoebe today brought those memories back. Lying in the hospital bed, I reflected on everything. My mindset and thoughts weren’t those of a teenager anymore. Something felt off. This unsettling feeling soon had an answer. I got a call from Phoebe. In an upscale, private club, Phoebe sat without makeup. She wasn’t the fragile girl from the hospital. “Is Gideon good to you?” Phoebe opened the conversation. I frowned, puzzled. Did the hospital incident upset her? When I didn’t answer, she repeated the question. I looked at her expression, sipped my tea, and chose my words carefully: “If you’re asking about when he was my boyfriend, he was nice. He knew how to sweet-talk. But since I’ve returned, I haven’t sought Gideon out. That day at the restaurant, I just wanted to clarify things. You don’t need to worry, Miss Phoebe.” Phoebe smiled faintly and shook her head. “No, he’s not good to you.” I found her words amusing but was more confused. Phoebe didn’t seem to be marking her territory or showing off. “Miss Phoebe, I don’t understand, but I wish you and Gideon a long and happy life together. I’ll leave now. I won’t be staying in the country, so you needn’t worry about me disrupting your lives.” I spoke sincerely. “Miss, wishing a long and happy life with Gideon is a curse. Besides, he really wronged you.” I started to grow impatient, tapping my fingers on the table. Phoebe gave a slight smile. She shook her head and said, “No, he’s not good to you.” I found Phoebe’s words tinged with irony, but more than that, I was puzzled. Phoebe didn’t seem to be asserting any kind of dominance over me, nor was she boasting. “Phoebe, I don’t understand what you mean, but I do wish you and Gideon a long and happy life together. I’ll be leaving now. I won’t be settling down in this country, so you don’t have to worry about me interfering in your lives.” I said sincerely. “Miss, wishing you a long and happy life with Gideon is a rather harsh blessing. Besides, he truly wronged you.” I started to get a bit impatient, tapping my fingers on the table. “Phoebe, what exactly are you trying to say?” “The child I lost was Gideon’s, and your family’s bankruptcy was orchestrated by his family.” My hand, reaching for my bag, froze. I looked at her in disbelief. Under the overhead light in the private room, Phoebe appeared like a chess player with a winning strategy. My fingers gripping the table’s edge turned white. I steadied myself and said with forced calm: “Phoebe, you shouldn’t speak so carelessly.” She looked at me with a bit of pity, much like how I used to look at her. She didn’t respond to what I said, just pushed a stack of papers in front of me. “Take a look.” Half an hour later. With a sense of inevitability, I released the crumpled papers in my grasp, staring blankly at the stack. My chest felt tight, as if being squeezed.

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I have been married to Declan for three years, but he refuses to sleep in the same bed as me. This is all because his female friend, Daphne, cannot have children. “Daphne’s health is poor. Do you really want her to watch us live happily as a family of three? That’s too cruel!” I kept compromising until Daphne’s birthday, when Declan, after drinking, suggested we sleep together. I was overjoyed, and for three whole days and nights, my body bore the marks of our passion. Not long after, I discovered I was pregnant. Excitedly, I took the report to show him, only to find them watching a short video, and the woman in the video was me! “Declan, how could you be so callous?” “Declan, you’re unbelievably generous.” This was all part of a bet proposed by Daphne. Whoever’s child I conceived first would have to buy her a diamond ring worth millions. Their attitude made me furious. The next day, Declan received a letter. I’m pregnant. Looking at the ultrasound report, I was overwhelmed with joy. This was our first child after three years of marriage. Declan had never wanted to share a bed with me, let alone have a child. Now that we had this love’s fruit, I thought he’d be happy too. I quickly dialed his number, but it was busy. As I wondered why, the phone rang again. When I answered, I heard Declan’s slightly breathless voice. “What’s up?” He sounded displeased, as if I had interrupted something important. “I just left the hospital. I have good news to share.” “Whatever it is, tell me at home.” He was in a hurry, and I could hear a soft female voice in the background. “Are you with Daphne?” I frowned and asked. A long silence followed, and then Declan finally responded. “No, Theo and the others are here.” I let out a small “oh,” feeling somewhat annoyed. Declan didn’t seem to care about my matters, not even asking why I went to the hospital. “Alright, I’ve got to go. We have something to discuss.” Before I could say more, he hastily hung up. Gripping the report, I skeptically took a cab to his company. Before marrying me, Declan had a close-knit circle of friends for ten years, from high school till now. Theo and Daphne were part of it. I remember Daphne well because Declan wouldn’t have kids with me because of her. Daphne, due to her reckless youth and multiple abortions, was nearly infertile. The group vowed not to have kids to accommodate her. I vaguely recall arguing with Declan about kids, and he always mentioned her. “I don’t understand. Why does Daphne’s inability to have kids concern you?” “Daphne’s health is poor. Do you really want her to watch us live happily as a family of three? That’s too cruel!” Declan spoke firmly and decisively. No matter how much I pleased him after marriage, he remained indifferent, even sleeping in separate rooms from me. As a woman, I understood Daphne’s feelings. She liked Declan. Because of her poor background and unclean past, the Declan family would never allow her in, so she was jealous and even hated me. I only learned this after marrying Declan. I loved him, so I chose to compromise for our marriage. “Ma’am, we’ve arrived,” the driver’s gentle voice brought me back to reality. I protected my belly and prepared to get out. Before reaching Declan’s office, I heard laughter inside. “Look at this part. It’s too intense, like she’s trying to please us.” “You don’t get it. The best part is when she’s on top. The way she moves is incredible.” I frowned, listening to their banter, and heard faint moans mixed in their laughter. My ears burned with anger. In broad daylight, they were watching short videos in the office! I was about to push the door open when a clear voice interrupted. “Stop watching. It’s just Genevieve. What’s so interesting?” I stopped. It was Daphne’s voice, familiar because she often called Declan late at night. “You have to admit, Genevieve has a great figure! No wonder so many chased after her.” “So what? In the end, she still ended up with us. But Declan, you’re generous to share your wife.” My expression froze, mouth agape in disbelief, like a plaster statue struck by lightning, even my eyelashes trembling in shock. I stiffly turned my eyes, peeking through the blinds. The woman in the video they played was me!

I stumbled back, hitting the wall, my fingers digging into the plaster unconsciously. How could this be happening? How could I be in the video? My head throbbed, the video like invisible hands draining my strength, making my legs weak. “Declan, you’re so indifferent, holding back for so long!” “Declan, you’re generous to share her with us.” “Gotta admit, Genevieve’s something else.” Declan only bowed his head, smiling faintly at their praise. “As long as everyone’s having fun.” Daphne giggled, her voice sharp and cutting. “She wanted to sleep with Declan, didn’t she? If she’s so desperate for men, she should be satisfied.” Daphne’s words hit like a bolt from the blue, making it clear to me. During those three days and nights, they switched people! I remembered clearly; it was Declan’s first time not holding back. For the sake of the child, to please him, I did everything I could to satisfy him. Midway, he blindfolded me with a red silk ribbon. I thought he was seeking thrills, not realizing it was then they switched! I gasped, clutching my collar to release some of the suffocating pressure. “Don’t forget our bet.” Daphne’s tinkling laughter came again, her boneless wrist resting on Declan’s shoulder. “Whoever’s child is in her belly must buy me that diamond ring worth millions.” She cooed, while the men waved their hands, saying millions were nothing, they’d buy it for their group favorite, even if it cost billions. Their raucous laughter was deafening. I leaned against the wall, my stomach suddenly convulsing, retching on the floor. Saliva mixed with bile dripped onto the tiles. My fingers twitched uncontrollably, unable to hold the report. The door suddenly opened, and Daphne exclaimed. “Genevieve! What are you doing here!”

Declan was the first to run out, seeing me in distress, retching on the floor, without a word of concern. “When did you get here?” I glared at him with hatred, my eyes red. Just seeing them made me feel sick, and without a word, I stood and ran out. I didn’t know how I got home, my face streaked with dried tears. Once home, I continued retching over the toilet. I knelt, crying my heart out, recalling Declan’s promises on our wedding day. Now they seemed like a joke. He could ignore me for Daphne, and to please her, let his friends humiliate me like this! Treating me like an object to be given away. Exhausted from crying, I dragged my weak body to the bedroom. I knew only my parents could help me now. They initially opposed my marriage to Declan, thinking his family only wanted our power. I ignored their objections and insisted on marrying this devil. After the wedding, though they complained, they still helped Declan’s family. Without me, Declan wouldn’t be as successful as he is now. I clenched my fists, hatred searing through my veins, burning my insides. I gritted my teeth and called my parents. “How dare he treat you like this! That bastard!” My mom was furious but immediately comforted me. “Don’t worry, Genevieve. Mom and Dad will make him pay, we’ll get justice for you!” Tears streamed from my eyes, regretting my poor judgment. After calming me, my parents sent a divorce agreement to my email. The terms would make Declan’s life miserable, but it still didn’t satisfy me. It wasn’t enough; none of them could get away with this. Suddenly, I heard a noise at the entrance. I quickly closed the email. “Genevieve.” Declan called coldly, throwing the pregnancy report on the floor. “Why did you come back alone after finding out you’re pregnant? Don’t you know how dangerous that is? What if something happened to the child…” “Are you worried about the child, or worried your bet might not go through?” I cut off his self-righteous lecture, smirking as I looked up at him. “So you heard. Well, let’s be clear. If the child is mine, I’ll take responsibility. If not, don’t blame me for being ruthless. After all, you willingly threw yourself at us.” His tone was impatient, his face showing disgust, as if he found me dirty. “Declan, you’ll regret this.” I said through clenched teeth, my knuckles white. “I don’t have time to argue with you. Now that you know, let’s go to the hospital for a paternity test.” With that, he ignored my weakened state, dragging me toward the hospital. “Are you crazy!” “I see you’ve heard everything, so let’s get straight to the point. If the child you’re carrying is mine, I’ll naturally take responsibility. But if it’s not, you have only yourself to blame for what’s to come.” His tone was impatient, his face twisted with disgust, as if I was something dirty. “Declan, you’ll regret this.” I said through gritted teeth, my knuckles whitening as I clenched my fists. “I don’t have time for arguments. Since you know the situation, let’s go to the hospital for a paternity test now.” Ignoring my weakened state, he dragged me towards the hospital. “Are you insane?” I struggled desperately to break free, but the difference in strength was too great. I was forcibly dragged to the hospital by him. “Doctor, we’re here for a paternity test.” The doctor looked at Declan with concern, kindly advising, “I see your wife is newly pregnant. A paternity test this early could harm the fetus. Even if you’re anxious, you should wait at least six months.” Declan ignored the doctor’s advice, insisting firmly, “I want it done now. If your hospital can’t do it, then it might as well close down.” Declan’s family was an emerging power, aided by our family, and many feared him. The doctor, trembling, couldn’t oppose Declan and instructed the on-duty nurse to take me to the relevant department. “Hold on.” Declan suddenly interrupted. “Test these two brothers as well. The child in her belly could belong to any of us.” The doctor was stunned, unsure how to respond. Declan spoke about it so casually, as if discussing something mundane. “Damn, this woman gets around.” “Slut, shameless!” “How much do you think she charges? Is five hundred enough?” “Forget it, she might even pay you instead!” The middle-aged men in the hospital leered at me, their lewd stares making me nauseous. I leaned against the wall, retching. “Stop pretending.” Daphne walked over, arms crossed, arrogantly pulling my hair. “You bitch, hurry up and get the paternity test done. Don’t make Declan wait.” Daphne laughed triumphantly, seeing me humiliated was her favorite thing. “You’re so filthy. Let’s see if Declan’s family will accept you as a daughter-in-law. By then, the position of Declan’s wife will be mine.” She whispered disdainfully in my ear. I smirked, straightening up. “Daphne, you’re pathetic. Even if Declan and I divorce, you’ll never get your chance. After all, Declan’s family won’t accept a woman who can’t have children.” “Genevieve!” Daphne’s eyes turned vicious, enraged by my words. She yanked my hair back hard and punched me in the stomach. “You can give birth, so what? You’ve been with so many men, and this child is a bastard. Declan won’t let a bastard into his family!” I no longer felt pain, just laughed madly like a lunatic. “Daphne, you’re just jealous of me. Even if you plot against me, I still have a chance to bear Declan’s child, but you can only be a hidden mistress your whole life!” Daphne stomped in frustration, her eyes like blades trying to pierce me. “You’re just a lapdog! Just wait, I’ll show you how much Declan loves me!” With that, I slapped myself and pretended to fall to the ground. “Daphne!” Three people rushed over to anxiously care for Daphne. I watched and found it laughable—three fools being played by a scheming woman. “Genevieve, you wicked woman! How can you treat Daphne like this? You’re the dirty one, what’s wrong with Daphne saying something?” Declan glared at me, his brow furrowed. “I say this, thanks to who? Declan, if it weren’t for you…” “Ow!” Daphne interrupted my questioning, crying with a tear-stained face. “My arm hurts, Declan, look, I don’t think I can lift it.” Daphne wailed, trying to save face. “Just you wait!” Declan shot me a fierce look, angrily saying, “If anything happens to Daphne, I won’t hesitate to show everyone your video!” With that, he rushed over to pick up Daphne. She lay in his arms, winking at me smugly. I laughed bitterly, getting up from the ground. Around me were still unbearable comments and taunts, with men whistling, their eyes like they wanted to skin me alive. Declan, since you’re so obsessed with the test results, I’ll give you what you want. It would take a day to get the paternity results. Declan didn’t come home that night. I knew he was with Daphne. The next morning, I received a text from an unfamiliar number. It was a few photos. “Genevieve, see this? I’m Declan’s true love. He’s so gentle with me in bed, something you’ll never experience, you slut!” Attached were photos of them in bed. Her bragging held no power over me; I’d already given up on Declan. I saved the photos and contacted the lawyer my parents sent me. “Are the results out?” “They are.” I smiled faintly, hatred boiling in my eyes. “Send it all over.” Declan, to make up for Daphne’s harm because of me, took her to buy the diamond ring used as a bet. Just as they arrived at the venue, the secretary hurried over. “Madam asked me to give you this.” Declan took it, puzzled, while Daphne laughed first, “Is it a divorce agreement because she knows the child isn’t yours?” The four of them laughed, ready to see the results. But when they opened the envelope, they froze. “This is a court summons!” The four of them looked shocked, as the designer approached. “Excuse me, sir, the diamond ring you wanted has been bought by a lady.” “What! Didn’t we choose it first?” Daphne was displeased, shouting. The designer smiled politely, nodding slightly, “That lady offered a higher price, so naturally, we chose the better buyer.” “Additionally, that lady asked me to tell you, Mr. Declan, don’t forget your identity. Without Genevieve, there would be no Declan’s family in Jacksonville.” With a crash, Declan angrily smashed what he was holding to the ground. “That bitch Genevieve dares to provoke us! We can’t just sit back and do nothing!” Theo clenched his fists in anger. “We should upload those videos online and see how arrogant she is then!” Another man in their group, Luke, suggested bitterly. “Shut up!” Declan clenched his fists in frustration, the sound of his knuckles cracking. “You fools, don’t you get it? She wants to ruin us! If we dare upload those videos now, we’ll be facing jail time!” “What do we do? We can’t just let that bitch provoke us!” Daphne pouted, shaking Declan’s arm, “Yeah, Declan, that ring was clearly mine first. You have to stand up for me. She put a green hat on you and is still so arrogant. We can sue her for adultery, anyway, we have video evidence.” Daphne had many bad ideas, and those two liked to support her, whispering bad advice to Declan. “Genevieve!” I was sitting at home, admiring the diamond ring in the box, when I heard an angry shout from downstairs. I adjusted my clothes and looked down from the second floor. “What’s up? Did you get the result you wanted from the document I sent?” I smiled at them, a hint of threat in my eyes. “Genevieve, don’t push your luck! Being with us was a blessing for you. How dare you sue us!” “Yeah! You begged us to be with you. Don’t forget we have evidence. Do you want the Aiden family’s reputation to be ruined?” “Sister, didn’t you always want to be with Declan? Now that we’ve fulfilled your wish, you’re still not happy? Also, taking someone else’s beloved thing is wrong. I advise you to give the ring back before Declan gets mad!” They warned me one after another, only Declan remained silent, his eyes dark and unclear as he looked at me. I raised an eyebrow and smiled, walking down the stairs with my lawyer. “You humiliated me when I wasn’t conscious and now want to threaten me? You have some nerve.” I sat on the sofa, resting my chin on my hand, my tone leisurely, my smile wide, my eyes full of unhidden defiance, even my fingers twitched with provocation. “Also, uploading such a video online is illegal, right? Declan might not be afraid because he has Declan’s family, but what about you?” I pretended to think, frowning, “You small-time families dare to challenge me, really don’t know your place!” To make them pay, the first step was to break their clique. Interests are the best way to break them. I don’t believe the other two will sit still. “You know nothing! We brothers are close, Declan will find a way to protect us, but your reputation isn’t guaranteed! Soon everyone will know you’re a whore!” “Also, isn’t it illegal to upload such videos online? Declan might not be afraid because he has his family to back him, but what about you?” I pretended to ponder, frowning. “Do you really think you can challenge me? You have no idea what you’re up against!”

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National Day, I went home, and Chloe took over my room. My mom said, “Guests are guests,” and asked me to sleep on the balcony. But when the family went to the zoo, Chloe pushed me into the python enclosure. I was partially swallowed by a python. I was rescued but ended up paralyzed from the waist down, confined to a wheelchair. Chloe showed no remorse; instead, she blamed me for being careless and falling in. Feeling depressed, I fell down the stairs and died. Chloe inherited my family’s property and even praised my death. It turned out she had poured canola oil on the stairs, intending to kill me all along. When I opened my eyes again, I was back on the day I returned home for National Day. The clock on the wall showed the date, and I realized I had been reborn. “Adeline, go wake up your cousin,” my mom urged me. It was the National Day seven-day holiday, with many college students taking the high-speed train back home. I had bought a ticket early to celebrate with my family. Last time, I told my mom in advance to help me change the sheets. She agreed, but when I got home, I found Chloe, Daphne, sleeping in my room. Chloe used my cup and toothbrush, and even wrote on my certificates of merit from my childhood. I angrily told her to get out, but she called me petty. “It’s just a broken cup and some old certificates. I have those too, and they’re worthless at home. If you’re that upset, I’ll just print you some new ones. Why make a fuss?” “So noisy!” Those certificates were proof of my hard work from elementary through high school, not just wastepaper. But her dismissive tone made it seem like she had more right to be angry than I did. My mom, stirring up trouble, said Chloe rarely visited, so I should be hospitable and let her draw on more of my certificates. “Adeline, I’ve been wanting to throw these away. If you want to deal with them, go ahead and do it.” Laughing, she pulled me out of the room, made a makeshift bed with a cardboard on the balcony, and told me to manage for a few days. “It’s not cold yet. You can manage until Daphne leaves and you can return to your room.” “You won’t suffer much.” This cousin of mine, Chloe, was spoiled, always acting like a princess and playing the victim. I couldn’t stand her. Having to sleep on the cold floor for her made me even more upset. But I didn’t expect this National Day to be the start of my nightmare. I sat up from the floor, taking in this unusual morning. After speaking, my mom went to the kitchen, happily making Chloe’s favorite food while Chloe lounged in my room. Seeing me not up yet, my mom urged me to hurry before the food got cold. “So annoying! Why get up so early? Skipping a meal won’t kill you!” Chloe, unhappy, threw a ceramic doll from my bedside at my feet. My mom didn’t scold her; she just smiled and patted her head. “Daphne, sweetie, Auntie made your favorite smoked pork sticky rice. You’ll love it!” Chloe glared at me, telling me to clean up the doll pieces, or they’d hurt her feet later. Humming, she washed up at the sink. When I looked, she’d already opened all my brand-new skincare products, squeezing out half and leaving them on the sink. “Why are you looking? You dare keep such cheap stuff?” “I thought it was some imported good, but I had to wash my face again after using it.” She took out samples from her bag, each costing thousands, flaunting them at me. “Stop using those bad things that ruin your face. Use mine.” “But you’re so ugly, it doesn’t matter what you use.” Chapter 2 In my past life, I broke down crying from all the grievances. Even though I tolerated her, she kept targeting me. Looking at her now, I smiled and slapped her hard. “Oh, your precious face still swells with five finger marks from my slap.” I used all my strength, and Daphne fell to the ground. The sink’s bottles and containers fell, hitting her face and body. Her face swelled with blood vessels popping, looking hideous. “You hit me? How dare you?” She held her face, stunned. I sneered. “You sleep in my bed, use my stuff, and talk without a filter. I could spare you, but remember, I’m not a pushover!” My mom rushed over, helping Daphne up, scolding me for hitting my cousin. In my past life, she always manipulated me like this. “Be nice to your sister. Be more cultured. She’s family, how much harm can it do?” When I became disabled, she didn’t even say a harsh word. “Riches are fate, life and death are destiny.” “It was meant to be. Don’t blame others.” With one dismissive sentence, she excused all of Daphne’s wrongdoings. This time, I won’t be so foolish. Coldly, I responded. “Are you deaf or blind? Didn’t you see her messing with my skincare products?” “I saved those for my teacher. If her actions affect my graduate school recommendation, I won’t let her off!” My mom realized this could impact my recommendation and went silent. Daphne, furious, pointed at me. “Kick her out, Auntie! Slap her and make her leave!” I crossed my arms and pinched her chin hard. “This is my house; if anyone leaves, it’s you! Did the mountain confuse you about who’s the host?” My mom brought ice to soothe her face, coaxing. “Daphne, sweetie, your cousin is stressed about her recommendation, acting crazy. Let’s not stoop to her level.” Since that slap, Daphne nagged me daily, and out of guilt, my mom gave her thousands in red envelopes. She took her to local restaurants for authentic cuisine. Daphne flaunted the gifts at me. “What do you think? You don’t have them, right?” “Auntie said I’m pretty and sensible, deserving new clothes. You, the useless kid, get the old ones.” She then showed the zoo tickets featuring a golden python. Her eyes narrowed meaningfully. “Let’s visit the zoo tomorrow. They say there’s a golden python there.” Having lived through this before, I knew her plan. I was ready this time. Due to the National Day holiday, the zoo was packed. The zoo’s main attraction was the “Golden Python Mountain.” The mountain housed over 20 golden pythons, each seven to eight meters long and 20-30 centimeters wide. Each ate at least 20 pounds of meat daily. They’re known for their gentle nature, so the zoo hired handlers, creating feeding and photo zones. Brave visitors could feed them and take photos with the 100-pound pythons wrapped around them. In my past life, Daphne pushed me into the python pool during a photo session. The startled pythons swarmed and attacked me, leaving me disabled. Daphne bought several pounds of raw meat and two golden python hairbands, sticking one on my head. “Adeline, let’s queue for a photo session. It’s cool to take photos with these pythons.” Chapter 3 She even dragged my mom along. But my mom, afraid of such things, quickly refused. “No, Daphne, Auntie really can’t handle this.” “If you don’t come with me, no one will,” Daphne pouted, playing cute. Of course, my mom pushed me to her side, patting my back. “Let your sister accompany you. She has experience taking pictures with pythons.” I shrugged, feigning fear. “No, I’m scared now.” “It’s okay, sister, I can protect you.” Daphne had no intention of protecting me; she just wanted to repeat her trick. We queued for half an hour before it was our turn for photos. In the large python pool, dozens of golden pythons writhed, resembling a giant multi-headed monster. The python handler placed a small python’s tail on Daphne’s lap, letting her hold a chicken leg near its mouth for a photo. Then it was my turn. As the handler brought the python for my photo, Daphne suggested loudly, “Brother, my sister wants a big one.” The handler searched for a large one, warning us not to step forward and disturb the pythons. Daphne agreed but subtly moved behind me, whispering. “Sister, are you really afraid of pythons now, or are you lying?” I looked at her coldly. “What are you implying?” Daphne shook her head innocently, smirking. “Nothing, just curious. You took photos with pythons as a kid, why the sudden fear?” I replied calmly. “People change as they grow.” “You were kind and gentle as a baby. How did you grow into a villain?” Daphne agreed verbally but quietly moved behind me. She spoke softly. “Sis, are you really afraid of pythons now? Or are you just joking?” I shot her a cold glance. “What’s your point?” Daphne shook her head innocently, a playful smile on her lips. “Oh, nothing. Just curious. You used to have photos taken with all sorts of pythons as a kid. How come you’re suddenly scared now?” I replied calmly, “People change as they grow up.” “You were kind and gentle when you were little. How did you become so nasty?” Her smile vanished instantly. She stared at me like an enemy, gritting her teeth. “Since you put it that way, I’ll show you what being nasty really means.” “You slapped my face! Just drop dead already!” Suddenly, she pushed me hard from behind, trying to shove me into the Python Pool. But I was prepared. I hooked her wrist with my fingers and yanked her down beneath me. We both fell into the Python Pool, with me on top. The pythons, startled, made low hissing noises and slithered towards us. I grabbed Daphne by the throat, propping myself up with one arm, and looked at her coldly. “I heard that because there are so many visitors, the zoo didn’t feed them yesterday so everyone could enjoy feeding the pythons.” “These cute snakes must be starving now.” “What… what are you going to do? You evil woman!” Realizing something was wrong, Daphne’s face turned fearful. She tried to push me off and get up. In the next second, I slammed my elbow hard into her arm joints. With two snaps, both her arms dislocated, and she couldn’t get up anymore. “You wicked woman! You dog! Are you trying to kill me? Shameless woman!” Daphne cursed me furiously, but I ignored her. I got out of the Python Pool before the pythons could reach us. “Ah! Someone save me! Help!” Just as she finished yelling, a python opened its mouth wide, drooling, and wrapped its thick body tightly around her. She couldn’t make another sound. ### Chapter 4 The incident caught everyone off guard, plunging the entire zoo into chaos. Many people pulled out their phones to record the scene. My mom was frantic, desperate to rush in and save Chloe herself. Unfortunately, the staff who had come to assist stopped her.

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I am a legendary racing driver with seven consecutive championships. However, my navigator boyfriend’s wrong directions caused me to crash during a race. While semi-conscious, I overheard a conversation between him and my best friend. “Finn, even if you’re worried she’ll win the championship and outshine my debut, this is too dangerous.” “What if you get hurt too?” “I’m willing to take that risk for you. Besides, I’ve had enough over these years.” “So what if I lost to her a few times before? Why should I only be a navigator?” “This time her hand is ruined, and I want to seize the chance to completely destroy her!” Hearing the truth felt like a stab in the heart. One was the partner I trusted with my life, and the other was a friend I secretly supported in pursuit of her dreams. I thought I was blameless, yet I was repaid with vile schemes. Since that’s the case, I don’t need to hold onto old feelings. Finn Beckett’s prestige as a top navigator and Eloise’s long-cherished dream of stardom—I once helped build those paths, and I can just as easily take them away.

When I opened my eyes, only Finn Beckett was sitting by the hospital bed. Seeing me awake, he appeared sorrowful, but there was a gleam of glee in his eyes he couldn’t hide. “Nora, your wrist is broken. Even if it heals, it might never be as flexible as before.” “So your racing career might…” I looked at his insincere face, feeling a bitter taste in my heart. To protect him, I let my side of the car take the brunt of the crash with the cliff. That’s why I was severely injured and had broken bones, while he only had minor injuries. But at that moment, I wished he had been smashed to bits. As I was brooding over this, Eloise suddenly burst in with a group of reporters. “Nora, you scared me to death!” She threw herself beside the bed, sobbing dramatically as if she might faint. The reporters played along with her act of deep sisterly affection. “Miss Eloise didn’t even attend the celebration party and rushed over. Truly a good friend!” Eloise seized the opportunity to speak, her voice choked with tears. “I’ve been friends with Nora for seven years. Forget the celebration party; I’d give up my debut stage for her!” I didn’t want to watch her hypocritical performance and slowly opened my mouth. “You must be thrilled I had a car accident, right?” “After all, if I won the championship, your debut stage would be overshadowed.” Eloise had a moment of panic but quickly put on a wronged expression. “I know you’re upset about losing the competition.” “If my successful debut makes you feel unbalanced, I’m willing to exit the industry for you…” Her acting was impressive, painting me as someone who can’t stand seeing a friend succeed with just a few words. The reporters were at a loss due to this sudden change, and the entire ward went silent enough to hear a pin drop. At this moment, Finn Beckett, who had been silent for a long time, scolded me. “If you can’t be happy for Eloise’s good fortune, fine! But why take it out on her because you’re in a bad mood?” I sharply looked at him, holding back the urge to tear his mouth apart. “You, as a navigator, gave wrong instructions and got me injured. What right do you have to criticize me?” Finn Beckett was guilty of deliberately hurting me. Seeing me expose his negligence, he became angry out of shame. “Why don’t you win without a navigator, huh? Aren’t you so great?” “Oh, I forgot! Now with your hand ruined, you can’t win a competition with or without a navigator!” “What legendary racing driver! Nora Quinn, you’re just a has-been now!” His venomous words made me tremble with anger, and I couldn’t help but retort. “So what?” “People will remember a fallen champion, but they won’t remember you as the eternal second place!” Finn Beckett was hit where it hurt, his eyes nearly popping out. “Just because I couldn’t beat you before doesn’t mean I can’t now!” “If you have the guts, race me one more time! The loser will leave the racing world forever!” Looking at the man in front of me, my whole heart was wrapped in pain and hatred. For four years, he had been my confidant and the other half of my soul on the track. Now, to destroy me, he was forcing me while I was injured. “Fine, I’ll race you.” Seeing me agree, Finn Beckett snorted and walked out. Eloise also dropped the act and left with the reporters, smugly. I watched the swaying hospital room door and had an idea. I want to watch them fall from their own webs of deceit, from great heights to heavy falls! But a month later, when I was discharged, I received a call from a teammate. “Sister Nora, something’s wrong! You’ve been kicked out of the racing team!”

Furious, I rushed to the training ground. “Finn Beckett! On what grounds did you kick me out of the racing team?” “I am the team captain you personally appointed, so I can decide who stays or leaves.” His smug look made me sick. “Have you forgotten how desperate you used to be?” “Losing to me five years in a row, terminated by your former racing team, it was I who took you in…” “Smack!” Finn Beckett, enraged, slapped me down and stomped on my wrist. “You witch! How dare you talk!” “Weren’t you just afraid I’d win one day, that’s why you made me a stupid navigator!” Other team members couldn’t bear it and criticized Finn Beckett for being ungrateful. “Say one more word, and you’ll be kicked out of the team with her!” Finn Beckett shouted, pressing harder. My face turned pale with pain, but I gritted my teeth and sneered. “Do you think the team can exist without me?” Finn Beckett sneered and slapped my face. “Trying to threaten me with sponsors?” With those words, Eloise came up beside him. She looked down at me, saying she signed many endorsements after debuting. “With me here, your sponsors are nothing!” Their eyes looked at me like I was an ant. But they didn’t know, the so-called sponsors were just icing on the cake. The real backer of this racing team was the Quinn family. If I wanted, I could dissolve the team with a word. As for Eloise’s endorsements, I helped her get them. “Your hand is ruined, the team is gone, let’s see how you win against me!” With that, Finn Beckett kicked me aside and left with Eloise in his arms. The team members helped me up, all saying they’d follow me. I looked in the direction Finn Beckett left and spoke coldly. “Don’t rush, the time isn’t right yet.” I want him to lose everything at the peak of his complacency. However, news of me being kicked out of the team and the “harsh words” I said to Eloise at the hospital quickly spread. Netizens eagerly awaited my exit from the industry, while also harshly criticizing me as a petty frenemy. I didn’t say a word in defense and instead reached out to Lachlan. He was the racing driver whose skills were only second to mine in recent years. Knowing I wanted to join, he agreed without hesitation. Returning to the track a few days later, I realized the severity of the problem. My wrist injury made it difficult to return to my peak. Just as I was troubled by this, an even worse situation arose. Finn Beckett not only poached all of Lachlan’s team members but came with Eloise to provoke. It turned out they wanted Lachlan to kick me out, but he refused. So in anger, they emptied his team. Finn Beckett looked at me with resentment, and his words were meaningful. “What did you offer this guy to make him protect you so much?” Eloise chimed in at the right moment. “What else could it be? Her hand is ruined, but her body can still be used, right?” I couldn’t endure it any longer and slapped her. “Don’t think everyone is as despicable as you two scumbags!” Seeing his sweetheart get hit, Finn Beckett raised his fist to defend her. But Lachlan, who was half a head taller, stopped him. In the end, he could only throw a vicious “just you wait” and leave in embarrassment. I looked at Lachlan standing in front of me, feeling very guilty. “Sorry for dragging you into this.” He glanced back at me, shrugged indifferently as if he didn’t care at all. I was full of doubts but didn’t feel right to ask. To solve the current predicament, I immediately contacted the Quinn family-sponsored racing teams from various countries.

After some communication, a French team’s coach agreed to help me assemble a top-notch team. I was going to share this good news with Lachlan. But when I arrived at the training ground, I found the garage engulfed in flames. I checked Lachlan, who was blocked outside the police line, from top to bottom. Fortunately, aside from being a bit disheveled, he was unharmed. “What happened?” “I don’t know. I was fixing the car in the garage when I heard a noise from the back door.” “But when I went to check, I only saw a figure running away, and then the garage caught fire.” Lachlan’s face was smeared black from the smoke, looking lost. But I knew in my heart, this was most likely Finn Beckett’s doing. After Lachlan was taken by the police to give a statement, I decided to demand an explanation. However, I was stopped at the gate by the manager of the former team’s training ground. He shoved me hard, completely lacking the previous respect and flattery. I was about to argue with him when Finn Beckett swaggered over. “Oh, here to beg for mercy?” He was smug, his eyes full of ridicule. Thinking of how he almost got the innocent Lachlan killed, I was furious. “If you have a grudge, come at me! Why target Lachlan? Does human life mean nothing to you?” “What evidence do you have to say I harmed anyone? Be careful, I might sue you for defamation!” Finn Beckett poked my shoulder hard, his face full of a sleazy smile. “How about this, come back and be my racing assistant, then I won’t…” “You think trash like you deserves to keep working with me?” I cut him off, and his eyes turned vicious. “I see, you’re just asking for it!” “I’m just waiting for you to exit the industry and crawl back begging me!” I looked at his back, thinking, let’s see who begs who then. On the way back, I contacted the sponsors. Lachlan’s car was destroyed in the fire, and we needed new racing cars. “You got any proof I harmed someone? Watch out, or I might just sue you for defamation!” Finn Beckett jabbed me hard in the shoulder, flashing a sleazy grin. “How about this, come back and be my race assistant, and then I won’t…” “You think trash like you deserves to work with me?” I cut him off, and his eyes immediately glinted with malice. “You’re really asking for it!” “Just wait till you’re begging me to help you when you leave the industry!” Watching him walk away, I thought to myself, who’s going to be begging whom? On my way back, I contacted the sponsors. Lachlan’s car had been destroyed in a fire, and we needed a new racing car. Fortunately, all the sponsors are brands invested in by the Quinn family and are always ready to assist me. Besides, I devised a brand-new plan. Three days later, I picked up Lachlan and headed to the Quinn family’s expansive private training ground on the outskirts. It not only had professional tracks but also various rally simulation terrains. Lachlan’s jaw dropped when he saw the training ground, the team from France, and the brand-new top-tier racing car. “Did you arrange all this?” I nodded and then announced my new plan in front of the entire team. “Lachlan, you and I will compete in the race a month from now.” “You’ll be the driver, and I’ll be your navigator.” “Aren’t you afraid I’ll lose? If I lose, you’ll have to leave the industry.” Lachlan asked, surprised. I just smiled and reassured him. “No one knows you better than your opponent. After competing against you for the championship for so many years, who else is more suited to be your navigator?” After hearing this, Lachlan also smiled. “Then I’m counting on you, my navigator.” Training commenced quickly. Lachlan’s driving skills didn’t disappoint me, and I was indeed well-suited to be his navigator. Turning, accelerating, braking—every move he made affecting the car was just as I expected. After a few days of working together, Lachlan even said my instructions were far better than his previous navigator’s. Training proceeded smoothly. Until, half a month later, we were invited to participate in a charity race. When we showed up on the track without any team members, all the media thought I had really hit rock bottom. “Nora Quinn used to be so glamorous, now she doesn’t even have a team?” “Not only no team, but she’s also teamed up with her former defeated opponent, how embarrassing!” Reporters loudly discussed my “downfall” for everyone to hear. Finn Beckett and Eloise approached, surrounded by a crowd. He started with sharp and sarcastic remarks, clapping mockingly. “I heard your cars got burned, no cars, and you still have the gall to come?” “Afraid you’ll never get another chance to race, so you don’t care about your reputation anymore?” “What a piece of junk to show up with?” He pointed at the old racing car we borrowed temporarily. Lachlan’s former team members jeered along with him. “Luckily we joined Finn! Otherwise, we might have ended up in a fatal car accident!” My former teammates stood by, their faces dark with anger. I gave them a reassuring look, signaling them to hold on a little longer. As we prepared to enter the track, Lachlan stopped me. “Your hand isn’t healed yet, let me do it.” Before I could respond, he was already in the car with his helmet on. The race began under the expectant gaze of the crowd. But at the first turn, Finn maliciously cut in front of Lachlan’s car. The two cars scraped closely, sparking a series of sparks. He repeated the same tricks at several more turns. What was supposed to be a charity race turned highly competitive under his provocation. After winning first place, Finn deliberately walked to the stands, shaking sweat from his hair in front of me. Like a dog just out of water. “Teaming up with such a second-rate driver, Nora Quinn, how do you expect to beat me?” Finishing his words, he snatched the reporter’s microphone in a self-assumed suave manner. “I’m sure everyone knows about the bet between me and Nora Quinn, but for old time’s sake, I don’t want to bully her too much!” “So I’ve decided to let my new girlfriend, also a popular actress, Miss Eloise, be my navigator!” In a rally race, a navigator is like the driver’s eyes. Choosing someone who knows nothing as a navigator is like driving blind. He’s trying to tell everyone that no matter what, I can’t possibly win against him. Looking at his smug face, I couldn’t help but laugh coldly inside. “Those who act unjustly will bring about their own downfall.” After that day, all the media rushed to report on the sensational romance between Finn Beckett and Eloise. Their shipper fans quickly grew in number. As for me, I was said to be unsuccessful on the track and in love. With support from various forces, the bet between me and Finn Beckett received unprecedented attention. However, no one expected that on the day the bet was fulfilled, I showed up alone at the track. In stark contrast to Finn Beckett and Eloise, surrounded by admiration, I looked like a solitary, pitiful figure. Even the reporters looked at me with a hint of pity. I ignored it and calmly tapped the microphone. “Finn Beckett, how about we raise the stakes on our bet?” “If I win, both you and Eloise leave the industry.” Finn Beckett reacted like he’d heard the funniest joke in the world. “A racing driver without a navigator, still dreaming?” I curled my lips into a mocking smile. “Navigator? Are you blind? I’m standing right here.” I stepped forward, staring into his eyes. “Do you believe it, the legendary racing driver was me before, and the top navigator will be me in the future. “As for you, as long as I’m here, you’ll always be number two.” Finn Beckett’s eyes widened with rage, raising his hand to hit me. But suddenly, his gaze shifted to the entrance behind me. Then, the scene erupted in exclamations. My racing team had arrived! 5 Three top-tier racing cars entered one after another, followed by my team. Everyone present was stunned.

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