Mother’s Day of Remembrance. My husband slammed my head against the tombstone, and agony swept through my entire body. With his beloved assistant in his arms, he mocked me. “Do you think a ten-million-dollar sales order will make me forgive your mother? That’s like giving charity to beggars.” He squinted and sneered, then kicked and shattered my mother’s tombstone. “Your snobbish mother died too comfortably, so I’ll make you a living widow, ensuring she can’t rest in peace.” Tears and blood blurred my vision. I got up to fight back against my husband, but the assistant tripped me. My abdomen struck the broken tombstone, and the intense pain made me pass out. He kissed the assistant as a reward and flew to the Island overnight to celebrate her birthday. When I woke up, I had lost the ability to have children, and my mother’s grave was reduced to ruins by a fire. Declan, our marriage ends here. Don’t blame me for my ruthlessness! Fueled by hatred, I went to the company to resign to Declan, only to find out he was on the Island celebrating Lydia’s birthday. So, I submitted my resignation online. Within seconds, the assistant approved it on Declan’s behalf. The legitimate wife was openly replaced by the mistress, and my colleagues mocked me behind my back. “How embarrassing, President Declan has disliked her for a long time. She clung to the company and wouldn’t leave.” “Exactly, she always opposed President Declan and bullied the assistant. It’s karma that came too late.” “I bet our boss’s wife will be replaced soon, and someone will leave with nothing.” I smirked inwardly, having seen them suck up to the powerful too often. Declan targeted me in everything, but he only favored the assistant, Lydia. When Lydia made mistakes, I reprimanded her officially, but Declan protected her and turned the tables, humiliating me for abusing power. Those two-faced colleagues constantly humiliated me with words to curry favor with Declan and Lydia. After I left, they wouldn’t have a good time. “I left the company of my own accord to become the vice president at a rival company. Without me, this company will soon go bankrupt. Your good days are coming to an end.” They didn’t know I took all the sales orders under my name, which accounted for 80% of the company’s business. Everyone looked at me in confusion. I ignored their questions and left the company with my box. As soon as I stepped out of the building, Declan called. “What are you doing? Didn’t you see the document I sent? The client needs it urgently. Send it to me in half an hour, or you’ll regret it when I get back.” He didn’t know I had resigned. Still as overbearing as ever, treating me like a slave, even threatening me with violence. But I wouldn’t tolerate him anymore. I casually opened the document. It was the ten-million-dollar order I secured with great effort. I had tried to use it to negotiate with Declan, but he dismissed it and gave it to Lydia as a birthday present. As always, I was the workhorse, taking on overtime and blame. While Lydia only had to flatter and slack off to enjoy the benefits. When Declan started treating me this way, I resisted. But he expertly manipulated me, intentionally neglecting me and threatening divorce. I loved him and didn’t want a divorce, so I agreed to his unreasonable demands. I naively believed Declan would be moved by me and fall in love. But what did I get in return? It wasn’t until I lost the ability to have children and my mother’s grave was burned that I realized how wrong I was. “I’m busy.” “Do you dare refuse my orders?” Declan frowned displeased, his tone suddenly cold. “Adeline, listen to me. No matter what you’re doing, drop it and get it done now, or I’ll fire you.” “I already…” I was about to explain my resignation when Lydia spoke softly. “Declan, I didn’t expect Adeline to be so petty, still blaming me for tripping her. Maybe I should handle it myself.” “Adeline wouldn’t dare hold a grudge against you. Today’s your birthday, and you were exhausted last night. Let her handle these trivial tasks.” Declan’s gentle tone towards her left me dazed. He doted on her so much. Lydia, basking in her triumph, subtly sowed discord, making Declan even more disgusted with me. Declan shouted at me, “Adeline, I’m the boss, and you’re the employee. You have no right to say no. Get it done now.” Lydia played the good person, “Declan, maybe I should do it. Adeline just got out of the hospital and isn’t well.” “She only went to the hospital, she’s not dead. You were almost exhausted last night.” “As the boss’s wife, Adeline should contribute more to the company.” With a few dismissive words, Declan belittled my pain and morally coerced me. If someone doesn’t love you, even if you die, they’d think you’re pretending to sleep. I trembled, touching my abdomen, my eyes bloodshot, wishing I could tear Lydia and Declan apart. But I had to endure, to ensure they got what they deserved. Seeing my silence, Declan assumed I was complying, and his tone softened. “Adeline, this is a chance to atone for your mother’s sins. What a great opportunity. As the hostess, you should have a broader perspective.” “Sometimes you’re not even as good as Lydia. She’s so dedicated to the company. She worked until she had a fever yesterday, while you just sit and enjoy. You should learn from her.” Lydia giggled, “Declan, you’re so mean. Adeline has done a lot for you and the company.” On the surface, she defended me, but she was really mocking me, laughing at Declan for not touching me. Declan didn’t catch the sarcasm and mocked me with her. “What Adeline has done is nothing to me. It can’t be considered a contribution. The company’s performance relies on you, our sales elite.” I was shaking with anger, my blood boiling, struggling to breathe. Regretting blindly loving Declan. Declan feigned ignorance. All of Lydia’s sales orders were taken from me. And the one who gave her the power was Declan himself. He squandered my love, thinking I couldn’t live without him, thinking I wouldn’t divorce him. “I have to deliver gifts to a major client. I’m hanging up. Send the document to my email immediately.” Ten minutes later, my phone buzzed. Lydia sent a provocative photo. In a five-star hotel restaurant, Declan cut steak to feed her, with cake, wine, and flowers beside them, stabbing my heart like a knife. The limited edition Chanel bag by her side was the one I’d longed for but couldn’t afford. I couldn’t help but look at Lydia’s Facebook. Last night, she took a selfie in a hotel robe, with Declan’s reflection in the window glass. Love and lack thereof are clear at a glance. Tears streamed down my face, and I clenched my fists in fury. Turns out, Lydia’s fever was from serving Declan too “diligently.” The so-called gift for a major client was actually Declan’s birthday gift to the assistant. “Adeline, you can’t get your husband’s love and lost your job. If I were you, I’d have jumped in the river out of shame.” I didn’t reply to Lydia, saving the photo instead. I opened my phone, adjusted the document Declan sent, and directly sent it to his email, waiting for the crisis to unfold. Just as I got in a cab home, my phone chimed. The bank deducted fifty thousand for five-star hotel dining and lodging, leaving a balance of one thousand. Declan spent my money celebrating Lydia’s birthday.

Everyone said I put up with Declan for his money. But no one knew he controlled the finances. I didn’t get a cent of his money. My salary covered daily expenses, while his money managed the company and investments. I never complained, but when I wanted to buy a limited edition Chanel bag, I found my money was almost gone. For household expenses, I gave up on buying the bag and checked my spending at the bank. Turns out my salary was almost spent by Declan. He used my money to buy Lydia a gold necklace, luxury skincare, and dresses worth thousands. But I never thought he’d use our meager remaining balance to buy Lydia birthday gifts and book a presidential suite. For me, he was incredibly stingy. He made me order meal kits, patch up clothes at the tailor, use cabs for work, and gave me gifts from street promotions for my birthday. Whenever I was dissatisfied, he’d accuse me of being wasteful and a spendthrift. When I fought with him about Lydia, he said I slandered him, claiming the things were for clients and told me not to be a jealous woman. After finding just a thousand left in the bank, I called him, wanting my money back. But he didn’t answer for a long time, so I told the driver to head to the bank. I withdrew the remaining money, quickly canceled the account, and cut off our financial ties. Just after finishing, Declan called. “My phone was on silent. What’s up?” “Pay me back. The money you spent on Lydia’s bag and hotel, give it back.” Declan didn’t expect me to demand the money, and he was speechless. “That’s marital property. Why can’t I use it? You’re being petty.” I spoke coldly, confronting him, “The money in the account was my salary. You shamelessly used it on your mistress. If you don’t pay back, I’ll sue you.” Declan was speechless, knowing he was in the wrong. We built the business from scratch. During the toughest times, we asked Mother for money. She refused and told friends and family not to lend us any. Mother called him a pauper, saying lending him money was like throwing buns to a dog, never to return. Declan became gaunt and depressed. I secretly mortgaged our marital home and took a high-interest loan to solve the crisis. When we overcame the difficulty, Declan found out and was furious, demanding I redeem the house quickly. Declan was rendered speechless, fully aware of his own fault. We built everything from the ground up. During the most challenging times of our startup, we turned to my mother for financial help, but she refused and even warned our friends and family against lending money to Declan. She called him a poor man, saying lending him money was as good as throwing it away. Declan became more withdrawn and despondent by the day. Without his knowledge, I used our home as collateral for a high-interest loan to tide us over. Later, when we overcame the crisis, Declan found out and was furious, insisting that I redeem the home immediately. But I had no money, so I had to ask my mother-in-law for help. She used the funds meant for her cancer treatment to reclaim our home. Not long after, she passed away due to lack of treatment. Declan blamed my mother, claiming her snobbery was responsible for his mother’s death. On the phone, Declan was silent for a few seconds before sighing. “Adeline, I know you’re not asking me to repay the money; you’re just upset with me. But remember, your mother caused my mother’s death. Spending a little on my assistant isn’t asking too much.” “I’m just venting my anger at your mother’s grave, so don’t be so petty.” “I urgently need to send gifts to clients. Transfer the money to me right away. Stop sulking, or you’ll ruin a big business deal.” “You have one minute, or I’ll divorce you.” Declan feared I’d refuse, so he threatened divorce. This threat always worked on me. Whenever he mentioned divorce, I would comply obediently. He took advantage of this and kept using it against me. In the past, I didn’t want to lose him and felt guilty about his mother, so I swallowed my pride repeatedly. Now I finally understand. He would never appreciate my efforts; he would only demand more, always thinking I owed him. Over the years, I’ve sacrificed for him and even lost my ability to have children. Whatever debt there was, I’ve long repaid it. His future struggles are no longer my concern. “I don’t have any money left. You can ask the bank for a loan or use an online loan. Lydia can also pay for you first.” “You have a week to return the money to me.” I turned off my phone and took a taxi back to our home to pack my things. The house was a gift from my mother, decorated in a style Declan liked, and he was very pleased with it. I wanted to add Declan’s name to the property title, but my mother strongly opposed it, saying that men were unreliable and that the house was my only security. Because of this, my mother and I didn’t speak for a month until Declan said he wouldn’t insist on it, and we proceeded with the wedding. Declan’s resentment towards my mother had already started back then, but my love-blinded mind didn’t notice. I packed my belongings and listed the house for sale online. That afternoon, I went to City Hall to submit the divorce papers. Declan had already signed his name. Ever since I discovered Lydia’s existence, I had secretly prepared a divorce agreement. When I asked Declan to sign the sales contract, I slipped the divorce agreement inside. He didn’t even look before signing. Due to his trust in my abilities, he never scrutinized contracts, giving me an opportunity. When I asked him to review the contract again, Lydia waved at him from a distance, and he was immediately distracted. He patted my shoulder and said, “I trust you. A contract you’ve reviewed is surely fine.” I watched his hurried back, tears welling up in my eyes. He didn’t trust me; he was just in a rush to meet his mistress and had no time for me. The staff at City Hall shook their head, saying the divorce needed personal confirmation from both parties. I showed them the provocative photos Lydia sent, the spending records Declan had with her, and the recordings of him threatening me with divorce, but they were all rejected. Why is getting a divorce so difficult? “I’m about to clock out. Are you going to proceed or not?” I grabbed her hand and pleaded, “Of course, I will. I’ll call him right away, please wait for me.” I turned on my phone and quickly dialed Declan’s number. The emergency call went unanswered, and I knew he had blocked me. I borrowed someone else’s phone to call him, and he answered immediately. “Declan…” “Adeline? How dare you turn off your phone and contact me? This marriage is definitely over.” I hung up and asked, “Can I proceed now?” The staff looked at me with sympathy, asking if Declan was abusive. I thought for a moment and nodded. She sighed and didn’t make it difficult for me, telling me to collect the certificate in a month.

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Finn’s beloved Adeline has returned from studying abroad. Her return immediately put her on the same level as me, who has been working tirelessly to climb the company ladder for the past five years. But I’ve reached my limit; I comply with Finn’s wishes and act as the compliant puppet he desires. Everyone in the company knows I’m just a stand-in for Finn’s beloved Adeline. The foundation I’ve built with years of hard work has become their playground. With a simple nod from Adeline, I pack up my things and hand over the office I’ve occupied for two years. If she so much as frowns, Finn will do anything for her, even if it means stepping over me. Finn doesn’t understand why I’ve stopped crying and fighting, or why I no longer call him heartless. With Adeline perched on his lap, she giggles “Finn, you really know how to keep things in order; even the sister knows her place.” I smile faintly; they’ve forgotten that Finn has already signed the divorce agreement. I will leave this company and never see them again. 0

“Tonight, you meet with Mr. Johnson. Adeline and I have other plans,” Finn said, tossing the prepared meeting notes back to me as he left the meeting room with Adeline. This left me with a half-finished presentation on the screen and unfinished words. The room was so quiet I could hear the click of the lock. “Oh, poor Lydia has to work overtime again tonight.” “We really aren’t familiar with the project; it’s best if Lydia handles it.” “Finn trusts you, that’s why he gave you this task.” Adeline’s team members packed their things and offered me empty words of comfort as they passed. I knew they were just flaunting their favor with Finn in front of me. Finn’s favoritism towards Adeline is obvious to everyone, even though I am his legal wife. For a whole month, I’ve been putting in extra hours on the project with Mr. Johnson. When I handed it to Finn, he barely glanced at the proposal before telling me to pass it to Adeline’s team. I argued for my team’s hard work and had a huge fight with Finn in the office. Everyone outside could hear my hysteria, but no one spoke up for me, even though we’ve shared hardships for five years. That was the last time I argued with him. It wasn’t for me or because of Adeline, but for my team’s dedication. In the end, I paid out of my own pocket to take the team out for dinner to soothe their frustration, then stayed late to reorganize the project details for Adeline. She tugged Finn’s sleeve and pouted, “Taking over the sister’s project, she won’t get mad, will she? Besides, I don’t even know this project yet.” So, Finn waved his hand and told me to organize a meeting to hand over the project details. Standing in front of the two of them, the air was tense. They seemed to be waiting for me to get angry or break down. But I calmly gathered my documents and agreed coolly. Today’s scene repeated itself; Finn seemed determined to use humiliating me as his way to win over Adeline. It seemed the crueler he was to me, the more sincere his feelings for his first love, Adeline, appeared. I should have realized sooner that I could never replace Adeline, even though I am his wife. Finn and Adeline’s story is clichéd, like a Prince and his Cinderella. Adeline is an only child from a regular family, not poor but not a match for Finn’s high-status parents. Finn was set on Adeline, declaring he’d marry no one else, and fought with his family over it. His parents resorted to the oldest drama trick—a half a million dollars to leave their son. Actually, they arranged for her to study at her dream school abroad, covering all expenses. Adeline agreed, somehow convincing Finn to accept it too. While Adeline was abroad, Finn’s parents approached me. They promised that if I agreed to marry Finn, they would revive my family’s fortunes. It was a windfall for me. Finn and I knew each other from childhood, attending the same schools since elementary. My feelings for him grew wildly during my teenage years; I secretly loved him for seven years. I asked why me, and they said I looked like Adeline, and they knew me better since they’d watched me grow up. “Besides, we can revive your family, or crush it like an ant if we wish,” Finn’s mother said with a smile that had the sharpness of a sugar-coated blade. Despite knowing the dangers, I accepted it naively, dreaming that love would grow over time, like kids playing house. Until one day, I accidentally saw his chat history with Adeline on his smartphone during a meeting and confronted him. Finn turned it on me, telling me to know my place, and brought Adeline into the company, raising her to my level. He wanted revenge, so he publicly favored Adeline, leaving me embarrassed. He took Adeline to social events, and even at company dinners, held her hand and doted on her publicly. I got angry, but he didn’t care, turning it into my one-sided cold war. If I apologized, he would lecture me in front of everyone, calling me a stand-in who couldn’t compare to a hair on Adeline’s head. Luckily, I woke up from this five-year dream long ago. This unhappy marriage should have ended sooner. 0

It was late at night when I finished discussing the project with Mr. Johnson. He’s notoriously difficult—hard to crack, hard to get a signature, hard to please. Even though my proposal covered all his needs, he dragged it out until he finally signed. In the freezing winter night, not even taxi drivers wanted to pick me up. Finally, shivering with cold, I got into a taxi and came back to life with the warm air from the heater. I numbly scrolled through my smartphone, and my Facebook Feed was flooded with Adeline’s posts. In the pictures, she and Finn were holding hands, sweetly nestled in a Ferris wheel cabin. She smiled brightly at the camera, while Finn’s eyes were tenderly fixed on her face, a faint smile on his lips. When the amusement park opened, I had asked Finn to go with me. At that time, Adeline hadn’t returned, and Finn and I were getting along. But he said it was childish and crowded, and asked me if I wasn’t embarrassed to go. So, I pouted but said nothing, unable to imagine him in a cartoon headband on a Ferris wheel. It wasn’t his style. I thought so and shelved the plan, passing the park countless times but never entering. Now, I realize childishness and crowds were never the issue. It was about who you went with. Like Finn’s gaze in the photo, I’d never seen that look from him. The comments were full of colleagues fawning: “Oh my, so sweet, I’m dying!” “Why call her Ms. Adeline? She’s Mrs. Finn~” “Adeline returns, and Finn dotes on her deeply.” Adeline chimed in, sharing how she had begged Finn to wear matching headbands: “Isn’t it cute, our Finn~” The comments buzzed with speculation, but Finn and Adeline only said they were just out relaxing. A new employee, clueless, asked when they could drink at their wedding. Finn replied with a question mark, and Adeline sent a “shush” emoji. I didn’t react like before, getting angry at their relationship and calling Finn. Instead, I messaged him about successfully closing the project with Mr. Johnson and that I’d leave the documents in his office for signing tomorrow. The bumpy road made me turn off my smartphone, lean against the car door, and close my eyes in exhaustion. Back home, I saw a message from Adeline using Finn’s account: “Lydia, it’s Adeline. Thanks so much for handling the project with Mr. Johnson. Finn didn’t want me to be too tired right after arriving, so he wouldn’t let me do anything! I owe you a meal to thank you~” Finn’s smartphone was off-limits to everyone, even if I accidentally picked it up. He would accuse me of disrespect and invasion of privacy. Yet, Adeline could freely use it, see our chats, and expose everything to her. I couldn’t help but chuckle. “Lydia, it’s Adeline. Thank you so much for your hard work on the project with Mr. Johnson. Finn doesn’t want me to be worn out right after I arrive, so he hasn’t let me do anything! I’ll treat you to a meal someday as a reward~” Finn never lets anyone touch or look at his smartphone. Even when I picked it up from the coffee table by mistake, thinking it was mine, he got upset, saying I was invading his privacy. Yet, he lets Adeline use it freely to reply to messages, exposing all our chats to her without any privacy concerns. I couldn’t help but chuckle. Is this what they call the power of “Adeline”? The importance placed on someone in one’s heart dictates how they are treated. However, I felt unusually calm and even gave her a like on her Facebook Feed. What once seemed like the end of the world now feels trivial. I’ve wasted too much time on them. From now on, I’ll live for myself. I pulled up the data I compiled recently and called my dad: “Yes, I’ll handle those companies abroad. We’re divorced now.” 0

Finn didn’t come home all night, and I didn’t leave the entryway light on for him or wait up in the living room like before. He might still be out enjoying himself while his parents are probably worrying about the company deficit. Finn’s company was initially started to impress his parents. His father and mother saw it as a chance for him to gain experience, so they secretly helped a lot, investing much money. Otherwise, the company wouldn’t have taken off so quickly. Did Finn, who used to skip class to hang out with friends, and I, who only had a bunch of theoretical knowledge from university professors, really think we could run a company? Finn thought he was some business prodigy, always getting new project collaborations whenever there were signs of losses. But it was all his parents and I handling things behind the scenes. While I was learning how to run a company day and night, the Aiden family’s money wasn’t just filling the void for their playboy son. I used the company as a transit hub to support our own industry. The way Finn’s mother looked down on me back then still feels like a splinter lodged in my skin. It doesn’t hurt anymore, but it always bothers me when I think of it. Now, our industry, with my help, has risen from decline to become a leading enterprise. Finn doesn’t know or care about any of this. Since he reconnected with Adeline, every time I share my success excitedly, he can’t take his eyes off his smartphone. In front of him, even when I dress according to his preferences, I feel like I’m acting foolish. But it doesn’t matter anymore. These years have just been me working here. I’ve spent five years in this company, understanding every level and experiencing every process firsthand. This experience will be my capital to build my own world. Suddenly, Finn called: “There’s a company annual party tonight, remember to come and wear the dress I sent over.” I agreed calmly, not saying much. He seemed surprised I didn’t ask about the dress design this time, realizing it was Adeline’s favorite style and causing a scene. In the past, it always ended with us fighting, me tearfully wearing the dress to make peace, and seeing a hint of admiration in his eyes. But nothing would change. I politely said, “I understand. Is there anything else?” “You…” He started but couldn’t finish, ending the call with a busy signal. The divorce agreement has taken effect, and now we’re just boss and employee. The procedures to go abroad are almost complete. By this time tomorrow, I’ll be at my own company, sitting at the main seat, holding the first shareholders meeting. I’ll still attend tonight’s annual party, as a farewell to my youth. But when I walked in wearing the dress Finn sent, I saw Adeline clinging to his arm, wearing the exact same dress. 0

I paused at the entrance of the banquet hall, standing opposite them across the crowd. People were starting to notice, whispering around me. “Wow, how awkward. The replacement and the original.” “A replica can never be as good as the original. One’s by his side; the other’s entering alone.” “Such a rich family’s drama, and I’m seeing it live.” I was considering leaving to save face, but Adeline spotted me through the crowd. “What a coincidence, dear Lydia! You like this design too? Finn said it was custom-made for me. I thought there was only one.” Up close, I noticed differences. Her dress had gemstones on the skirt hem, sparkling like a starry river under the banquet hall lights. Finn looked flustered, avoiding my eyes. Was he embarrassed for making a scene or surprised the dress matched his Adeline’s exactly? Whatever the reason, it wasn’t my concern anymore. I raised my wine glass with a graceful smile: “What a coincidence. Mr. Finn likes it, but I think it’s just okay.” Before I could take a sip, Adeline suddenly stumbled, spilling all her red wine on my skirt. The wine glass shattered, cutting my skin. My white skirt bloomed with dark red stains, whether from wine or blood, I couldn’t tell. The culprit collapsed tearfully into Finn’s arms: “I’m sorry, sister. I must have stepped on something and twisted my ankle. I’m really sorry. Do you have another dress?” I lifted my skirt to avoid the wet fabric sticking to my legs. I have a cleanliness habit, and the dress clinging to me was uncomfortable. I said coldly: “Adeline, is this necessary? “I hadn’t even seen this dress before wearing it. “No one’s competing with you for anything.” Perhaps my rare cold attitude caught her off guard. She paused, a barely noticeable smug smile on her lips: “Today’s the company’s annual party. Calm down, don’t make a scene. It’s about the company reputation. After the party, you can hit or scold me all you want! I’m just clumsy. Sister, why don’t you hit me?” She closed her eyes, grabbing my hand to slap herself with. She held on so tight I couldn’t break free. Before my hand could reach her face, Finn’s hand grabbed my wrist. “Lydia, enough! Don’t be so harsh. Adeline didn’t do it on purpose. Learn to consider the bigger picture like Adeline. Think about the company. She’s apologized; let’s end it here. I’ll send ten more dresses to your house tomorrow for you to choose from!” I laughed in frustration, pulling my hand free with all my strength, slashing my skirt with a wine glass shard. Rip— The dirty fabric tore off cleanly, transforming the cumbersome long skirt into a brand-new short one. “Hopefully, you two can think more about the company.” I tossed the dirty fabric at their faces and turned to leave. “Enough, stop being stubborn. I know what you’re up to. Don’t worry, with my parents backing you, your position is secure for now. They want me to bring you home tomorrow. Ask for whatever compensation you want.” He rambled on, oblivious to Adeline’s increasingly displeased expression. “But we’re already divorced.” Every tear on my skirt was my creation. On me, it’s the original. Under the torn dress, my leg bled from the glass cuts. It hurt, but I stood tall. I’ll never bow to Finn again. “Finn, whether as legal spouses or work colleagues, we have no connection anymore. “You should call me boss now.” 0 Adeline’s eyes sparkled at the words, and she gripped Finn’s arm more tightly, though she quickly masked her excitement: “Please, don’t be upset with Finn…”

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I found myself in a novel as the malicious supporting character. But I haven’t done anything wrong. I’ve even become friends with the heroine and married the gentle second lead. I always thought I was happy until I stumbled upon my husband’s diary. It turns out he was reborn. All these years of kindness were just to prevent me from harming the heroine… Holding the pregnancy test result and touching the tiny life inside me, I felt an unprecedented sense of security. I’ve been living in this world for 13 years, and at this moment, it feels like I’ve finally found a complete sense of belonging and attachment. I transmigrated into this novel world after my death, becoming the malicious supporting character with the same name as mine. But I thought I was lucky. I arrived before the story unfolded, so I hadn’t done anything to wrong the main characters. In fact, because of the female lead’s cheerful personality, we became best friends who could talk about anything. I turned into a guardian of love, encouraging her to pursue her romantic interests actively, watching her fall in love with the male lead, and sending her off as a bridesmaid when she married the man she loved. The female lead is the second person I want to share my good news with; as for the first, it’s obviously my husband. My husband, Declan, was originally the gentle second male lead in the novel, always silently protecting the female lead. Perhaps due to the butterfly effect of my changes, he no longer follows the female lead but focuses all his attention and affection on me. Walking together for 13 years, I truly felt loved, so I married for love without hesitation. Now, our little family is about to welcome a new life, and I can’t wait to share this good news with him.

I thought about it, and instead of saying it directly, I decided to let him discover it himself. I sneaked into the study, sat in his chair, and casually opened a drawer. An old notebook caught my eye. It stood out because it didn’t match the neat and uniform files around it. It should have been at the bottom, but a corner was accidentally exposed in the owner’s rush. I carefully picked up the notebook and couldn’t help but laugh. It was the type of girly notebook cover we used in our school days, worn with age, but the owner likely opened it frequently to record things, as the edges were curled, and the pages were yellowed. We never had secrets between us as a couple, so I opened it without any hesitation. On the title page was written in large English handwriting: Forever Love. I lowered my head with a shy smile, my face flushing. Could this be a love letter he wrote for me? I took out the pregnancy test result, planning to place it inside. I wanted to give him my most precious “love letter.” I carefully opened the first page and was instantly dumbfounded—my eternal love, Cora. Cora is the female lead in the story. Suddenly, I felt my blood reverse, and my whole body froze as if my throat was stuffed with heavy cotton, making it hard to breathe. My fingers trembled, yet uncontrollably, I read page by page. With a kind of obsessive self-torture, I read the entire diary word by word. Rather than a diary, it’s more like a love letter that can’t be sent, summarized in just a few words: Declan loves Cora but can’t be with her. It turns out Declan was reborn; it turns out Declan always loved Cora deeply; it turns out all of Declan’s care and affection for me was just an act! He needed to keep an eye on me to prevent any possibility of me harming the woman he loves. The joy of being pregnant vanished, leaving only bitterness in my heart. For 13 years, I never thought of harming Cora, but at this moment, I truly envied her. I envied her for the brief kindness and warmth she once gave, which made a man remember her deeply for 13 years, even at the cost of entangling with the malicious supporting character to ensure her happiness. My heart was in turmoil, tangled with pain and despair, and I couldn’t even remember how long I cried, just feeling that everything around me turned into a terrifying illusion.

Exhausted, I fell asleep on the sofa until Declan came home and woke me up. He was reeking of alcohol, staggering as he walked. “Honey, I’m back…” he said with a smile. “Sorry, I had a business dinner tonight, so I came back late.” I smiled bitterly, the smile not reaching my eyes, yet I still fulfilled my duty as a wife. I went to help him, undoing his tightly buttoned tie and loosening the collar. “Thank you, honey, you’re so good.” I gazed at Declan, realizing his gratitude was very perfunctory. If he paid a bit more attention, he would have noticed the redness and swelling in my eyes. Perhaps pretending to deal with me has become a habit for him. I helped Declan to the bed, undressed him, and prepared to clean his face and body. Drunk, Declan’s willpower slackened, as if he let down his guard, revealing his true feelings with weary vulnerability. “Cora…” I flinched, thinking I was hallucinating. I stared at Declan, my nails digging into my palms. “Cora.” The cruel reminder echoed again. In a self-destructive manner, I subconsciously imitated Cora’s tone. “Declan.” Declan suddenly grabbed my hand tightly, his drunken eyes filled with tenderness and affection. “Cora, as long as you’re happy, everything I do is worth it.” A short sentence fixed me once again in the cage of deception. I felt breathless, everything before me becoming bizarre, and I fled from the bedroom in a mix of running and hiding. It turns out the love I chose without hesitation was a joke from start to finish.

I didn’t sleep well. The various things the malicious supporting character Phoebe did in the novel replayed crazily in my mind. Phoebe bullied the female lead with her group, hired thugs to humiliate the female lead, and used her family background to oppress the female lead, and so on… In the dream, Phoebe suddenly turned back, with a face identical to mine. That face was twisted and ferocious, even I found it terrifying. In dreams, time flies, the male lead and the second male lead quickly grow and then take revenge on me. Declan’s cold, indifferent eyes calmly stared at me, as if looking at a dead object. “Since you like ruining others’ innocence, go experience it yourself.” In despair, I was humiliated to death and discarded by a filthy garbage pile, dying in agony. “No!” I shouted, waking myself up! I looked up into Declan’s concerned eyes, overlapping with the brutal and fierce image in the dream, and I trembled in fright. Declan was covering me with a blanket, looking confused. “Honey, what’s wrong? Why are you sleeping on the sofa, you’ll catch a cold.” “Honey, are you mad at me for drinking too much last night? Sorry, the client was important.” I shook my head, engulfed in fatigue and fear, not wanting to say anything. There’s no guest room in our house. Declan once promised he would never make me mad enough to send him to sleep in a guest room. Even if he did upset me, he’d be sensible enough to sleep on the floor beside me. But when conflicts really arose, I didn’t even have a space of my own. I was indeed under his watchful eye. Declan didn’t notice anything unusual about me, frowning pitifully. “Honey, I had a tough time at the business dinner yesterday, my head hurts a lot, where’s the hangover soup?” “I forgot.” I didn’t make any at all. Declan’s family isn’t wealthy, while I’m a typical rich second generation. He always said he wanted to earn my father’s approval through his own efforts, to achieve more to deserve me. So Declan worked hard. He didn’t accept help from the Aiden family, choosing to start his own business. In the early years, to secure projects, he drank heavily with partners, almost getting a stomach ulcer. I loved Declan deeply, and as his wife, I always took care of him personally. For the sake of his health, I found many remedies and often stayed up all night to help him recover from hangovers. If I were unaware of his true feelings, I might have continued being a dutiful wife. However, in reality, my efforts were all one-sided. [Phoebe used her family background to harm Cora, I can’t let her have any chance to harm Cora. I must achieve success in the business world, have enough power to rival Phoebe’s old man. If they harm Cora like the last life, I’ll make the Phoebe family pay a painful price!] Declan’s desperate efforts were merely to gain real power, to protect his true love.

“Honey, what’s wrong today? You don’t look well. Are you feeling unwell? Let me take you to the hospital.” I stared blankly at the man before me, wondering how much sincerity was in his concern. I hesitated about confronting Declan when suddenly my phone rang. The caller ID showed two big words—Cora. Declan quickly picked up the phone and handed it to me, signaling with his eyes, “Take it.” I numbly pressed answer, and Cora’s cheerful voice came through. “Phoebe, darling, remember we’re going to the art exhibit today?” “I remember.” “Let’s meet at the Coffee Shop in front of the Art Gallery, okay? Old Ho is dropping me off on his way to work.” “Okay.” Before I could speak, Declan said, “You have plans with Cora today, let me drive you there.” “No need, your office isn’t on the way.” Declan lovingly touched my cheek. “Silly, driving my wife anywhere is on the way. Go change your clothes!” Declan went back to the room to freshen up, his back radiating happiness. He’s going to see his beloved, of course, he’s thrilled. “Remember.” “Let’s meet directly at the Coffee Shop in front of the Art Gallery. He can drop me off on his way to work.” “Alright.” I hung up the phone, and before I could say anything, Declan spoke first, “You have plans with Cora today? Let me take you there.” “No need. Your office is out of the way.” Declan affectionately touched my cheek. “Silly, taking my wife anywhere is always my pleasure. Go get changed!” Declan got up to freshen up, his back radiating happiness. Of course, he’s thrilled to see the one he loves. He seemed to have forgotten that he just mentioned taking me to the hospital because I looked unwell. In Declan’s world, nothing is more important than Cora. — When Declan dropped me off at the Coffee Shop, Cora was happily sipping a Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino. She naturally handed me a cup of hot milk, greeting me cheerfully. Declan gently reminded me, “Girls shouldn’t drink too many cold beverages. It’s bad for your health and can cause discomfort at certain times. You’re not a kid anymore; you should be more careful.” Cora teased with a smile, “Wow, showing off your affection right in front of me.” Declan replied with a smile, “You too, drink less cold stuff!” So much preamble for a simple reminder to her. The hot milk in my hand felt uncomfortably warm. Actually, I don’t like cold drinks. His concern was never really for me. “Got it, got it. You’re so naggy. Only Phoebe can put up with you.” Declan chuckled and turned to me, “I’ll pick you up for lunch. I remember you saying you wanted to try the new Spanish restaurant in Phoebe City.” Once doubt creeps in, you realize how insincerely his concern is acted. It wasn’t me who wanted to try the Spanish restaurant; it was Cora. But I was blindly in love, and he played his part well. Now that the truth is out, I see I was just blinded by my own ignorance. Cora held me close. “Okay, okay, you should go. Don’t interrupt our girl time.” She pulled me inside, mumbling non-stop. “Phoebe, I’m so excited for Master Gu’s work…” I instinctively looked back at the man in the distance. He was watching us with a scrutinizing gaze, but when our eyes met, he quickly hid his emotions. He put on a performance of deep affection, acting all affectionate. Declan, aren’t you tired? Certainly! 7 After the art exhibit ended, we had just stepped out of the Art Gallery when Declan’s car approached slowly. He had asked me several times when he should pick us up. If it were in the past, I would have thought it was a sign of his love and care.

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In my previous life, after we saved the Media Mogul, he offered my sister and me two choices. We could either enter Hollywood to become a star or become his adopted daughter and inherit his empire. My sister eagerly chose to inherit the business and boasted, “Elder Sister, you should go to Hollywood and face the challenges there. I want to be a princess in high society. Soon, you’ll be begging me for opportunities.” But once she moved into the Media Mogul’s home, she was constantly under the suspicious eye of his wife and lived in conditions worse than the servants’. In the end, she was forced into a loveless marriage with an older man who was both disabled and abusive. Meanwhile, I rose to fame with an original song that turned me into a household name and a famous actress worth millions. Later, at a charity gala, when she saw me as the honored guest, she broke down completely. In a fit of rage, she attacked me, and then took her own life by jumping out of a window. After our rebirth, we returned to the day we rescued the drowning Media Mogul. This time, my sister was so emotional that she burst into tears, exclaiming, “I want to enter Hollywood and become a famous actress!” The person before me is a true Media Mogul, whose enterprises dominate a significant portion of Hollywood. With sharp insight and a generous approach, they invest heavily in their artists, becoming the ideal mentor every newcomer dreams of. To showcase her talent to the Media Mogul, my Sister performed an impromptu song and dance, claiming it was her “Original Song.” “Sir, I’ve loved singing and dancing since I was a child. I apologize if it was awkward, but please consider making me a Celebrity. I know I can succeed!” Initially, I was lost in thought, but the familiar tune jolted me back to reality. It was my Original Song that went viral overnight in my past life! A bold thought crossed my mind: my Sister has experienced Rebirth too. The Media Mogul looked at her with admiration, nodding in approval. But then, my Sister’s legs gave out, and she collapsed, appearing exhausted, softly saying: “Sir, what I can’t let go of the most is my older sister. Please treat her well after adopting her…” She suddenly added with a worried expression: “When I saved you from the water just now, she was terrified on the shore. She’s been afraid of water since she was young; please keep that in mind.” Hearing this, the Media Mogul’s face darkened immediately. Because when he woke up by the shore, the first person he saw was me, soaking wet. And when he thanked me, I didn’t deny it. Now it seems like I wanted to claim the credit for rescuing him. “The child I want to adopt must have good character, not someone who resorts to tricks and lies. I’m sorry, but I’ll give you twenty thousand dollars as a token of thanks.” With a stern face, the Media Mogul pulled out a check, signed a number, and handed it to me. My Sister’s eyes lit up at the sight of the twenty thousand dollars. In the past life, she thought she would live a luxurious life after being adopted, only to find herself eating and wearing the servants’ leftovers. After marriage, she suffered daily abuse and beatings, and by the time she died, all her money amounted to no more than five hundred dollars. She immediately blocked my way, grabbed the check, and pretended to be terrified, speaking for me: “Sir, please don’t say that. My older sister didn’t just stand there; she cheered for me from the shore. Without her, I would’ve lost the strength to stay afloat long ago…” I watched her performance quietly, waiting for the chance to deliver a decisive blow. I smiled and asked, “Sister, since you’re so good at swimming, why don’t you jump into the river now and show us a frog kick?” My Sister’s expression froze. The Media Mogul snorted, “What do you mean, are you saying that you were the one who saved me?” I pressed my lips together, and in the next second, I dove into the water, holding my breath for a full minute before resurfacing. Seeing my Sister’s face turn from blue to pale, I said calmly, “Your turn, go ahead.” She couldn’t hold it any longer, screaming sharply, wishing to tear me apart: “I’m your Sister! Why do you keep pushing me to the brink!” I smiled at the Media Mogul, the truth was now evident. He was so furious that he clutched his chest, unable to speak, pointing at my Sister. But given that she had been his Adopted Daughter for years, she knew he was soft-hearted, so she knelt down with a thud, crying bitterly: “I’m sorry, sir, I lied just now! But I have my reasons! My older sister has always liked being in the limelight. When we were kids, and the orphanage director taught us to swim, I was better, so she grew jealous. She pushed me into the water when no one was looking, and I almost drowned. Since then, I’ve been afraid of water… “And she loves brand ads. She only saved you because she noticed your belt was Hermès. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have cared…” I truly admired her ability to lie on the spot. The Media Mogul looked at her in shock, half-believing her words. Eventually, he still appreciated her impressive creative talent and agreed to help her find an agency to sign with. That afternoon, we boarded the Media Mogul’s private jet to San Francisco. My Sister leaned over, smiling, and said, “Older sister, your good days have finally arrived. This life, you deserve it. “And I will be just like in the past life, becoming that Famous Actress in the spotlight.” She looked at me arrogantly, thinking it would terrify me, but unexpectedly, from start to finish, I just watched her with a smile. Newcomers pop up in Hollywood all the time. Where does she get the confidence to think she can rely on just one song to stay popular forever? Someone this foolish, even a thousand Rebirths wouldn’t help. I followed the Media Mogul to his home, a mansion in the heart of the city, comparable to a royal garden. The steps were made of white jade, and the railings were inlaid with gold. This top-tier Media Mogul lived more lavishly than I imagined. But I knew well that everyone in High Society is shrewd, so I showed no interest in anything, appearing indifferent the entire time. At lunch, I used my past life’s etiquette to appear generous and graceful. The Media Mogul, who had been observing me, finally showed a satisfied smile. He gestured for the servants to serve me food and began to ask about my life: “As my daughter, I won’t treat you poorly. You’ll receive a seven-figure monthly allowance, and there will be dedicated staff to take care of your daily needs. You’ll never have to go back to the life you had before. “However, as my daughter, I hope you’ll be diligent, know your limits, and become a good helper for your father in the future.” I looked up as a well-dressed, well-maintained middle-aged woman walked in briskly, her eyes almost spitting fire. I recognized her immediately as the Media Mogul’s legitimate wife, Madam Daphne. “Gideon Bennett, who’s this child you’ve brought in this time?” In the past, I learned that Madam Daphne was a wealthy heiress who insisted on marrying the Media Mogul and supported his business with her entire family. As they say, heroes can’t resist beautiful women, and the Media Mogul did have a few scandals in his younger days, making her wary. Seeing the Media Mogul’s face darken, I stood up first to introduce myself: “Hello, Madam, my name is Nora Bennett, the Adopted Daughter of Mr. Bennett.” She snorted, mocking, “Adopted Daughter? I guess I’ll have to give up my position as Madam soon since you’re the first one Gideon Bennett has brought home directly in years.” “Ah Feng! What nonsense are you spouting?!” The Media Mogul finally couldn’t keep his expression in check. I smiled slightly, stood up, and pulled out a chair for Madam Daphne, respectfully serving her food and soup. She sneered at my actions but didn’t stop taunting: “Oh, so you’ve done your homework on me. Too bad, I’m not Summer, and I won’t like you just because you’re pretty and diligent.” But as the aroma of the food wafted over, her nose twitched slightly. The Media Mogul noticed this and couldn’t help but smile. In the past life, out of gratitude for the Media Mogul’s kindness, I carefully learned Madam Daphne’s preferences. I knew she had a big temper but wasn’t a bad person. Every time I gave her gifts, she would return the gesture. Once, when I faced a media crisis, she spoke on my behalf in front of reporters. I also learned that when she was young, she helped Mr. Bennett sell goods at a stall. Once, she was accidentally hit on the neck by merchandise, narrowly escaping death, which left her with chronic issues. Thinking of this, I gently placed my hand on her neck. Madam Daphne instinctively flinched, “What are you doing!?” But then she suddenly felt an indescribable comfort and relaxation, and couldn’t help but loosen up. “I grew up in an orphanage. Although the director and teachers gave us a lot of love, I still learned to be cautious from a young age, striving to be a likable child.” I massaged her shoulders and neck earnestly, speaking slowly: “Being likable meant I could get an extra piece of meat in the cafeteria, gain more knowledge when asking teachers questions after class, and receive more love. “The director, who raised us herself, was like a mother to me. She worked tirelessly every day, suffering from severe shoulder and neck issues. I would massage her every day… “Every time I did it, I felt incredibly happy. It was like having a home, massaging my hardworking mother.” As I spoke, I could sense the person’s breathing in front of me tremble slightly. Madam Daphne had no children, but I knew she longed for one more than anyone. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Mr. Bennett watching me intently. Our eyes met, and his expression softened, nodding towards me. I understood well that the reason Gideon Bennett agreed to fulfill my Sister and my wishes wasn’t just out of gratitude. More importantly, he valued our outstanding appearances, thinking we could be of use to him in the future. He must have been aware of how my Sister lived in the past. The only explanation is that he allowed it to happen. If I couldn’t be of real help to him, my fate would likely be no different than my Sister’s past life. That night, I brought red wine to Madam Daphne’s room on behalf of the servants. She was smoking, and when she saw me, she raised an eyebrow and slowly got up to open the window. “At this hour, you’re looking for me? Aren’t you enjoying the luxury room Gideon arranged for you?” Her words were still sharp, but they were quite different from the day. There was no longer an attempt to associate me with Gideon and slander me. My elder sister surely knew about the hardships my sister faced in her previous life. The only explanation is that she allowed it all to happen. If I can’t be of real assistance to her, I fear my fate could mirror that of my sister’s past. That evening, I took a glass of red wine to Madam Daphne’s room on behalf of the servant. She was smoking and, upon seeing me, raised an eyebrow and slowly opened the window. “Why are you here at this hour? Aren’t you going to enjoy the luxurious room that Gideon Bennett arranged for you?” Her words were as sharp as ever, but there was a noticeable difference compared to earlier in the day. She no longer associated me negatively with Gideon Bennett. “Madam, I have no interest in your assets. I’m willing to sign an agreement to ensure I have no inheritance rights.” Meeting her astonished gaze, I stated clearly, “I’m here to help you avert a crisis.” In my past life, the main reason my sister married such a despicable person was that the Bennett Corporation faced a severe crisis. Otherwise, even as an adopted daughter, she was the Bennett Family’s only daughter, representing their image, and Gideon Bennett wouldn’t have treated her marriage so lightly. Madam Daphne took a drag from her cigarette and turned to the window, chuckling softly, “Our Bennett Family is large and conducts business with integrity. What help could you possibly provide?” I concealed a smile. “There’s no doubt about Bennett Corporation’s strength. But it can’t withstand an insider selling company secrets to competitors.” I took out a pen and paper and wrote down a few names. These people caused chaos in the industry by betraying the Bennett Corporation in my past life, and it’s hard for anyone not to have heard of them. Madam Daphne casually glanced at the names, and her expression changed dramatically. I said, “Maybe you don’t believe me, but I’ve had a knack since childhood for reading people and distinguishing good from evil. On my way here, I researched news related to Bennett Corporation. You should pay particular attention to the people on this list.” … Although Madam Daphne was skeptical, she couldn’t ignore the detailed information I provided. She informed Mr. Bennett, and they investigated the company’s situation. They indeed discovered a major issue: several executives had been secretly contacting competitors. The company was about to enter an important bidding process, and failure would result in significant losses. Mr. Bennett and Madam Daphne were shocked and immediately cleaned house from top to bottom. Within a week, I saved Gideon Bennett’s life and helped the company avoid enormous losses. Media Moguls are often superstitious, and the wealthier they are, the more they believe in fate. Now they almost all believe that I was sent by fate to bring them luck. At a family dinner, Madam Daphne seriously asked me, “Tell me, what do you want?” I placed my hand over my heart and sincerely said to her, “I am already the adopted daughter of the Bennett Family. I want nothing but for the Bennett Family to prosper and for my father and mother to enjoy peace and happiness.” It was the first time I proactively called them “father” and “mother.” Madam Daphne didn’t refuse; instead, she embraced me with excitement. I knew that from this moment, the doors of the Bennett Family were truly open to me. 5. From that day on, Gideon Bennett began taking me into the company to handle some affairs. I displayed astonishing business talent, and the projects and artists I selected created huge profits for the company.

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Married for five years, he only shared a bed with me, never his heart. It was a family marriage; I knew better than to hope for more, thinking it was enough. Until our anniversary night. I defied his rule for the first time and secretly took off the blindfold. That’s when I accidentally saw the name tattooed on his waist. It hit me then. Jasper wasn’t incapable of love; he simply kept it hidden, saving it for my sister. We had a furious argument, wishing each other dead. Unbelievably, it all came true when we had a car accident, driving off a cliff. Before dying, Jasper looked at me, his face bloodied, and begged: “Daphne, if there’s a next life, let’s not be husband and wife, okay?” I looked at him with a bitter smile, like someone who’d lost their mind. When I opened my eyes again, I saw Jasper kneeling on the ground: “Uncle, Aunt, I can’t marry Daphne. I love Iris.” I was stunned. But quickly relieved, as I didn’t want to choose him this time either. After being reborn, I chose to marry Asher. In the past life, Asher died at thirty, and his mother fainted from crying, while his father aged overnight. Everyone mourned his passing. He was remarkable, becoming the head of the family at a young age. Beneath his frail body was a steadfast heart. Before he died, I intended to see him one last time. But I heard him say, “I like Daphne.” “What I’ve done, she doesn’t need to know. I just want her to be well.” He said not all love needs to be spoken, not all love requires reciprocation. For many years, no one knew except his assistant. His love was kept so deep that I never noticed until his last moment, filled with regret. Today, I’ve returned from rebirth. This time, I choose to marry Asher, even if it’s just for that “like” from the past life. I want to help him, at least not let him die with regrets again. But Asher’s mother was a bit hesitant, “Are you sure you want to marry Asher?” I calmly exchanged wedding documents with her, confirming Asher’s name on them, and smiled slightly, “Yes, Aunt.” Asher’s mother tried to persuade me again: “They say Asher won’t live past thirty, you…” “Daphne, even if Jasper disagrees with the marriage, you don’t have to choose a husband from the Adams Family.” After a while, I smiled, raised my hand, and gently patted her hand. Reassuring her, “Aunt, Asher will live a long and full life.”

In the past life, I especially liked Jasper. We were childhood friends, and when my feelings awakened, no other boy could compare. I thought he felt the same way, but it was always one-sided. Every time in bed, Jasper would hand me a blindfold or tie to cover my eyes, saying: “Daphne, your eyes are too beautiful. I’m afraid I’d lose control and hurt you.” Every time, I’d blush at the ears. Until the fifth-anniversary night. I secretly took off the blindfold for the first time, only to accidentally discover the name tattooed on his waist. Shame and betrayal swept over me simultaneously. At that moment, I felt like I’d fallen into an icy abyss. I went mad, smashing everything in the bedroom, grabbing an ashtray and throwing it at Jasper. I hurled insults, wishing him dead. Cursed him to the lowest depths of hell. But if I could do it over, I wouldn’t do anything, just distance myself from him.

Asher and my engagement party is set for next month. Asher’s mother said the Adams Family would handle these matters, and I just needed to wait calmly. She gave me the chance to back out anytime. I replied with a helpless smile, “That’s not fair to Asher.” He’s just sick. I sent a message to the research institute’s assistant, asking them to prepare the experimental equipment. In the last life, after Asher had a heart transplant, I locked myself in the lab for some time to research antibiotics. Later, the medicine was ready for production, but he had already passed away from an infection. I hope it’s not too late this time. Suddenly, Jasper sent me a message: “Come to the Night Owl Club, I have something to discuss with you.” I refused outright. The first thing Jasper did after being reborn was to cancel the marriage with me and confess to my stepsister, Iris. To make Iris happy, he set off fireworks all night long. Their relationship topped the trending topics, and everyone said they were a perfect match. Paparazzi even caught a video of them walking on the beach. Iris seemed tired, and playfully asked Jasper to carry her. I thought he’d refuse. But he didn’t. He smiled indulgently, kneeled down, gently rubbed her ankle, and then carried her, his actions smooth and tender. A commenter online said: “Jasper is truly in love with Iris.” He’s been by Iris’s side, diligently pleasing her, treating her like a princess. He’s trying to make up for past regrets, wanting a new life. I don’t object, as long as it doesn’t involve me. But I ended up going to the Night Owl Club, though not because of Jasper. I wanted to see Asher, and his assistant called me back: “Ms. Daphne, Mr. Asher is doing business at Night Owl. If it’s urgent, you can come directly.” I frowned instinctively, teasing, “Drinking while sick? Afraid of not dying fast enough?” The assistant quickly muted the mic. After a moment of silence, all I heard was a light cough. Finally, the assistant hurriedly gave me a room number and hung up.

Surprisingly, Jasper seemed sure I’d come and had people watching for me since early morning. The moment I showed up, two bodyguards at the entrance forcibly took me to Jasper’s room. After opening the door, they pressed hard on my shoulders, forcing me to kneel. The cold from the floor seeped into my knees. The humiliation washed over me again. I clenched my fists and glared at the man in front of me: “Jasper, are you out of your mind?” The room was dimly lit. Jasper bit a cigarette from its pack, lit it, took a drag, and exhaled a cloud of smoke. “I don’t want this either.” “You didn’t cooperate with me. You refuse to cancel the engagement, so don’t blame me for being dirty.” My mind went blank instantly. Our wedding was already called off. Does he still not know? I instinctively struggled, trying to explain. Jasper had already approached me with a glass of wine, gripping my chin, “Daphne, don’t blame me.” “I just want to live the life I want. As long as you’re tainted, they won’t force me to marry you.” I stared at Jasper, eyes filled with endless sorrow. My heart ached sharply. Childhood friendship, five years of marriage, truly worthless as dirt. “So you want to drug me and send me to someone’s bed?” For a moment, Jasper seemed stunned, his lips tightly pressed, his hand pausing for just two seconds. But he still forced the wine into my mouth. “The Adams Family has been busy with our engagement party these past two days. I can’t wait any longer.” “I found a well-matched young man for you. He’ll take responsibility and marry you.” “Jasper, you’re crazy, really crazy…” I struggled desperately against his control, but there were two bodyguards behind me. Their strength was too great; resistance was futile. The wine rushed down my throat. The intense sensation made me cough uncontrollably. My face flushed red, and spilled wine dripped from my chin, soaking my shirt. Clinging to my skin. “Daphne, be good.” His voice was gentle, reaching out to wipe the wine from my lips. By then, the bodyguards had let me go. I gasped for breath, still a bit disheveled. Hands weakly propping on the floor, my eyes brimmed with tears of physiological reaction. My lips curled in self-mockery: “Jasper, I’m not marrying you, nor will I ever.” He laughed disdainfully at that: “Really? Daphne, I know you too well.” “I know how much you like me, so I had no choice.” He was so confident, so sure. Suddenly, Iris appeared at the room’s entrance, clutching her dress hem, her gaze fixed on me. Her voice trembled, “Sister, Jasper, you two…” Jasper’s body froze, the smile stiffening on his lips. “Iris, why are you here…?” “Who brought you here? It’s dirty here; you shouldn’t be here.” He approached Iris in a panic, his voice gentle, his movements tender and obedient. At this moment, he was like a devout believer, his eyes full of genuine love. A sight I’d never seen before. Indeed, love and lovelessness are truly distinct. I stared at Jasper for a long time, an unspeakable bitterness welling up. People are strange. In the past life, after marrying Jasper, Iris went abroad and never returned. He’s always regretting the past, but if he wanted to marry her back then, who could have stopped him? If he truly loved her so much, a plane ticket to America. Just over two thousand dollars. But did Jasper ever visit Iris? No. Sometimes I don’t know whether to be grateful he was faithful to me in the past life, or grateful he was cowardly. Jasper coaxed Iris to go home. She pursed her lips without saying much, looking at me with unclear emotions. In the end, I was left alone. The effects of the drug came quickly. The two bodyguards stood at the door as Jasper instructed, waiting for the well-matched young man he’d arranged. He constantly regrets the past now, but if he had wanted to marry back then, who could have stopped him?

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I replicated my Grandpa’s masterpiece for the dessert competition, but my fiancé’s childhood friend accused me of using addictive poppy seed pods. I frantically searched for evidence to prove my innocence, yet my fiancé locked me inside, embracing me in tears and even promising to marry me. “I’m sorry, I love you, but Sophia really needs this trophy. This is the last time; I promise you’ll rise to the top again next time.” Sophia took home the competition trophy, while my Family Heirloom Signature Dessert was scorned by thousands. This was the 99th time he took something that belonged to me for her, turning me into a laughingstock in the dessert community. With her wish fulfilled, Oliver Thompson finally stopped blocking my participation and even asked me to make the Family Heirloom Dessert for their wedding after I won. Yet they didn’t know, my hands had long been severed by his childhood friend. … “What’s going on? Isn’t this the granddaughter of Dessert Master Ethan Johnson, Mia Johnson? How did she end up like this?” “Look at her, she seems like she’s been seriously ill. This is the International Dessert Competition. She’s not here just to humiliate herself, right?” Amid the mocking voices, two bodyguards pushed me in front of Oliver Thompson. His face darkened, and he slapped me angrily. “I gave you a chance to showcase your family creation, but you still pretend to be pitiful. How ungrateful!” “Besides, you’re infamous now because of the poppy seed pods incident. Today is also a chance for you to turn your life around. You better prepare well.” I lowered my head silently, while Sophia Thompson began to exaggerate the story. “Oliver, do you think Mia is still mad at me? After all, I won the trophy 99 times before. Maybe I should withdraw from the competition…” Her eyes reddened as she cried in Oliver’s arms. He comforted her with a tenderness I’d never seen. “Baby, don’t cry. That glory was always yours. With you here, he’ll always look up to you!” The reporters and Sophia’s fans started jeering. “Mia Johnson has some guts, losing to Sophia 99 times. If it were me, I’d have smashed my head long ago.” “I heard her Grandpa’s dessert recipe was stolen from Sophia’s family, and she’s a mistress interfering with Mr. Thompson and Sophia. What a shameless family!” Hearing this, my heart trembled. They could slander me all they wanted, but why defame my Grandpa! He poured his heart into his craft, achieving success through a lifetime of dedication. He was kind and always helped the poor and weak. Why should he bear such disgrace after death! I gritted my teeth and stood up, facing the camera. “Stop lying! My Grandpa never stole anyone’s recipe. The Johnson family’s pastry is entirely original!” But the audience didn’t believe me, only responded with disdainful snorts. I looked to Oliver for an explanation. Oliver stepped back with a look of disgust. “Your Johnson family is notorious. Why should I explain for you? Prove yourself if you have the ability.” I was pushed to the dessert station by the staff. Looking at the shiny kitchen tools, an indescribable emotion welled up inside me. This place, so familiar, should have been filled with a sense of mission and honor, yet it always brought back painful memories. Once, Oliver Thompson loved me dearly. He said my desserts were the best he’d ever tasted, something he could never tire of. Yet he imprisoned me in a basement, repeatedly making me a foil for Sophia. After being forced to lose to Sophia for the 99th time, I finally refused. Oliver looked at me with deep sorrow. “Mia, being a pastry chef is Sophia’s dream. Please don’t compete with her, just this once?” “You still have me. I’ll love you forever, but Sophia lost everything saving me. I can’t bear to see her lose her career too!”

I knew Sophia didn’t truly care about desserts; she just wanted the empty title of Dessert Princess. Yet I didn’t stop her, nodding reluctantly. After all, I owed Oliver a debt, and this was my repayment. But I was too naive. I thought stepping out of the competition would make Oliver let me go. Yet he accused me of using addictive poppy pods, destroying Grandpa’s century-old dessert reputation overnight. I furiously demanded why he did it, but he calmly replied. “You are talented and have the family recipe. You can easily make a comeback. But Sophia has nothing; I must clear all obstacles for her.” “I’m sorry, Mia. I owe her, and I must repay this debt. I’ll spend my life compensating you.” He imprisoned me in the basement, only letting me out for dessert competitions, facing public scorn and repeatedly losing to Sophia. Oliver Thompson, you owe her, and I owe you. So this time, I’ll repay you and owe you nothing more. I closed my eyes, awaiting the torment. Seeing Sophia standing opposite me at the dessert station, the host announced the start of the competition. Under eager gazes, Sophia began separating egg whites and yolks. I stood still, lost in thought. The audience grew dissatisfied. “What’s going on? Can she even make desserts?” “Haha, lost 99 times and still here. She cheated her way to the dessert master’s title. Shameless!” “If you can’t, just get off the stage!” Oliver, nearest to me, walked over displeased, lowering his voice. “What are you doing? Why aren’t you making desserts yet?” I trembled, biting my lip as I explained. “I don’t have hands anymore. Can’t you let me go?” Oliver seemed to find it funny. “Mia, aren’t you overdramatic? You’ve lived a pampered life in my villa’s basement for three years. Everyone respects you. I even instructed the butler to take good care of your hands, and you’re still lying!” Sophia softly chimed in. “Oliver, don’t push Mia. She must be upset because I stole the spotlight. Maybe I should withdraw from the competition.” Saying this, she pretended to untie her apron and leave, eyes red. The audience erupted in anger, cursing and throwing things at me. The insults grew louder, and I saw the bullet comments on the live stream, all cursing me. But I truly had no hands; how could I make desserts? I was about to show my sleeves to prove it when Sophia grabbed my mangled arm, squeezing it. “Mia, your hands are perfectly fine. Why make excuses?” I met Sophia’s malicious, satisfied gaze. She had cut off my hands, yet dared say such things! Before I could explain, Oliver slapped me hard. “If you keep pretending, I’ll reveal Grandpa’s dessert recipe right now. Get serious and compete!” I looked at him in disbelief, my body going rigid. He knew that Grandpa’s dessert recipe, written stroke by stroke, was a crucial confidential kept in our safe deposit box. Yet he stole and gave it to Sophia. How could he insult Grandpa’s legacy like this! I asked, my voice shaking. “Oliver Thompson, have you forgotten how good Grandpa was to you? How can you threaten me with him!” Oliver averted his eyes, guilty. “Don’t play the sympathy card. There’s no room for emotions on the stage. I’m always fair.” Always fair? How laughable. He wanted me to lose to Sophia publicly once more, because this competition was different. The winner would receive the International Dessert Competition Grand Prize, the most prestigious award. But without Grandpa’s dessert recipe, how could I win? At this moment, anger surged through me. I wanted to fight them, but feared he’d harm Grandpa’s dessert recipe. If it were lost, the Johnson family’s craft would truly be gone. “Please don’t do this. I’ll compete. I’ll compete, okay?”

Through sobs, I struggled towards the Dessert Station. But… without hands, even picking up an egg was impossible. An egg rolled off my sleeve, and laughter erupted from the crowd. “Is she pretending to be disabled on purpose?” “Is this the heir of the Pastry Family? She’s no match for Sophia!” Sophia Thompson, full of pride, had already started making cream amidst the cheers. A strong wave of bitterness rose in my heart, and tears streamed down my face. The first fragrant dessert was soon out of the oven. It was a Lemon Cake, made using the secret recipe she stole from my Grandpa. In stark contrast, my creation looked like a mess. Without hands to precisely adjust the oven temperature, my dessert didn’t hold its shape. The audience burst into laughter, and the Judges didn’t even want to look at my work, asking sarcastically, “Was that on purpose or an accident?” Sophia chimed in mockingly, “Judge, I know Mia, she’s far more skilled than this. She’s clearly doing it for show.” I was too ashamed to speak. The next moment, Sophia pretended to accidentally knock over my work and pushed me to the ground. “Oh dear, I’m sorry, Mia. Don’t be mad at me.” As she spoke, she pretended to bend down to help me up, but leaned close to my ear. “You didn’t know, did you? I actually caused your Grandpa’s death. That old man protected the recipe till his last breath, but I smothered him with a pillow…” “That old man protected your family’s recipe even in death, but I burned it all to ashes!” Hearing this, it felt like my blood froze. I wanted to grab her and question her, but I had no hands. “You murderer!” I shouted in anger, trying to get up, but Oliver Thompson rushed over and slapped me. “What do you think you’re doing? Sophia was kind to you, and you made something that looks like crap and fed it to others! No wonder the Johnson family’s reputation was bought with money!” He looked furious, completely forgetting that when he was an orphan, it was my Grandpa who paid for his education. Tears fell like broken beads as I collapsed in front of the Cameras, asking Sophia, “Why did you kill my Grandpa?” Oliver’s face turned ugly. “What nonsense are you spouting in front of so many people? Sophia didn’t kill your Grandpa. He died of old age!” Sophia cried pitifully, “I know you can’t stand to see me doing well, but you can’t slander me!” “But you admitted it yourself! When I was imprisoned, you came and cut off my hands. I want to call the police!” “Shut up!” Oliver was furious. “Don’t let me hear you slander Sophia again. You live in luxury at my place and pamper your hands every day, and today you’re just acting up to get my attention!” Then, Oliver turned to face the hundreds of cameras, addressing countless viewers. “Don’t believe her lies. She’s always cared about her reputation. How could she not have hands?” “And to think I wanted to help her run the Pastry Shop after all this. She’s really let me down.” Oliver looked at me with disappointment, as if I were a terrible person. The audience’s emotions were stirred, and they rushed over to beat me up. I weakly raised my arms to shield myself, but I couldn’t withstand their madness. “Stop hitting me! I didn’t do it on purpose. My hands were cut off. If you don’t believe me, look…” But no one listened to me. Oliver stepped forward and kicked my arm. “Still pretending? You can’t even lie properly.” In the chaos, Sophia accidentally poured a pot of hot butter on me. With a sizzle, I felt my skin blistering and screamed in agony. Everyone gasped and backed away, afraid of getting splashed. It seemed like a glimmer of hope for me. Ignoring the pain, I tried to crawl away. But in the next second, Oliver had the Bodyguards grab my clothes. They pulled so hard they tore my shirt off. I was desperate, as if my last shred of dignity was stripped away, and I screamed for mercy. “Please, let me go! Don’t look at my hands…” But when Oliver saw my arms, he was stunned. Just one look, and his eyes widened in shock, his voice trembling. “Mia, where… where are your hands…” My whole body twitched, my skin blistered from the hot butter, bleeding profusely. “Please, call a doctor for me…” Sophia screamed, “It’s fake, don’t believe him!”

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When the man came to pick me up, I lay naked on the bar table. He saw the wine stains and scars on my body, yet his eyes showed no pity. I picked up my torn clothes from the floor and numbly followed him. I took my sister’s place to marry Gideon, trying to please him for five years. During the worst of my depression, he brought home the woman he was seeing. He forced me to confess and serve a girl who looked exactly like my sister. The tenth time I cut my wrist, Gideon sat by the bed and told me he hated me. “Vera, don’t use such means to get my attention. Seeing you only makes me hate you more… If only it hadn’t been you who survived back then…” A sharp pain pierced my heart, and once again I asked for a divorce. But Gideon still wouldn’t let me go. Until a fire, reminiscent of the past, trapped both Nora and me. Before the pillar of fire collapsed, I exchanged my life for Nora’s escape. Everyone blamed me for my sister’s death. This time, I paid with my life. But Gideon went mad. 0

“Divorce?” Gideon sneered without mercy. “Every time you ask for a divorce, don’t you come back the next day crying for forgiveness? Vera, these pains are nothing compared to what she went through. You’ll never escape.” Gideon didn’t mind speaking in front of the family doctor. I bypassed him, apologizing to the doctor with regret, “Sorry to trouble you again.” Gideon impatiently interrupted, “Stop pretending here. The trouble you’ve caused is far beyond this. Cold-blooded beings like you are a nuisance just by existing.” Pain flashed in my eyes, and after a moment, I met Gideon’s hateful gaze. “Gideon… then why won’t you let me die?” My words seemed to sting Gideon, and he gritted his teeth, “Want to die? It’s not that easy! You used every means to survive back then, so I’ll satisfy you. I’ll make you live well, or better yet… a life worse than death.” I gave a bitter laugh. I’ve wanted to leave this world more than once. But they hate me, won’t let me live well, and won’t let me die. I have a debt I can never repay. “Can my sister, in her current state, still entertain for me at tonight’s dinner?” Nora spoke with a slightly proud voice while holding Gideon’s arm. I looked at the girl in her early twenties, who looked just like my sister, and felt a bit dazed. I pressed my lips together, wanting to refuse, “Sorry, I’m afraid I can’t go…” But before I could finish, Gideon coldly interrupted, “Vera, who said you could refuse? It’s just a cut, what are you pretending for? Didn’t you run fast even when your leg was burned back then?” My face instantly turned pale, painful memories resurfacing. The abandoned building devoured by flames, thick smoke filling the air. I covered my nose and mouth, stumbling out of the fire. But suddenly, a burnt wooden beam fell from above. My trapped left leg was instantly charred. I struggled to push away the burning pillar. But why… why can’t I push it away… why couldn’t I be a bit faster, just a bit faster… I snapped back to reality in terror. Nora, nestled in Gideon’s arms, stoked the fire again, “Brother Gideon, maybe we should just forget it. If my sister goes unwillingly, others might misunderstand that I’m bullying her. ” Gideon’s aura turned icy, “Vera, it’s just drinking. What are you afraid of? Afraid your frail body might drink itself to death? But don’t you want to die? This is exactly what you wanted, isn’t it?” I heard every word Gideon said clearly, and my breathing trembled. Nora didn’t need to attend any dinners to get the abundant resources Gideon threw her way. But Gideon insisted I drink myself into a stupor to please the investors. He just wanted to humiliate me. I accepted it. “Fine, I’ll go.” I bowed my head to Gideon. But for some reason, his face turned even darker. 0

I put on the scant dress Nora picked for me. She pushed me into the private room, where a pot-bellied, half-drunk man greeted me. His alcoholic breath hit my face, making my stomach churn. “Miss Song, if you’re late, you must drink three glasses as punishment!” “Mr. Knox, my sister can handle her liquor, I’ll have her drink double for you!” Nora complimented the man with a smile, her fingertips pinching into the soft flesh of my arm, threatening in a low voice, “Vera, you better perform well, or you know what will happen!” I looked down at the full row of white liquor before me, my already pale face turning even worse. But I had no choice but to take the glass, downing one after another. My stomach burned painfully, and black spots danced in my vision. Suddenly, Nora accidentally knocked over a champagne bottle, jolting me awake. The entire bottle poured down my chest, turning my dress transparent, revealing what lay beneath. I had no mind to catch the fleeting malice in Nora’s eyes. I turned to leave the room, but Mr. Knox grabbed my wrist. “Don’t go. Stay with me tonight, and I’ll guarantee the lead role for Nora.” The man’s leering gaze swept over me, making me shiver. But the next moment, the door was kicked open. Gideon, emanating a terrifying chill, grabbed a bottle from the table and smashed it over Mr. Knox’s head. Holding his bleeding forehead, Mr. Knox looked up in disbelief, “Young Master Jiang, what is the meaning of this?!” “Did I let you speak?!” Gideon kicked him again, and Mr. Knox fell to the ground, crying out in pain. Gideon stared at my half-exposed shoulder, his voice cold as ice, “Why are you still standing there? Go change your clothes!” I clutched my soaked dress, stunned, unmoving. “Gideon, isn’t this what you wanted to see? Why are you here?” A strange look flashed in Gideon’s dark eyes, quickly turning to hatred, “What do you think? You think I care about you? I’m just afraid you’ll use any means to seduce someone else and run away.” Gideon’s voice was low, full of mockery. I found it hard to breathe. “Vera, are you really going to stand there, dressed like that, in front of me?” I snapped back to reality, fleeing the room. Back at the old house, I finally scrubbed off the sticky feeling. Wrapped in a bathrobe, I went to the balcony for some air, only to hear a faint noise behind me. Realizing something was wrong, I turned to pull the balcony door. Sure enough, it wouldn’t budge. A few minutes later, I stopped banging on the glass, a bitter laugh escaping my lips. The same old trick, I’ve fallen for it countless times, yet I never learn. As expected, I developed a high fever by morning. My forehead was burning, yet my limbs were cold and trembling. I didn’t know when the door opened. Gideon stood over me, looking down in disdain, “Vera, what trick are you pulling now? Since you’re awake, get ready. Nora has a scene in ice water today, and you’re shooting it for her.” 0

I was momentarily stunned, my voice hoarse, “I have a fever.” Gideon frowned, impatience flashing in his eyes, “Stop pretending, the car’s already waiting downstairs.” I couldn’t believe it, “It’s below freezing. You want me to get into ice water with a fever?” “What else?” Gideon sneered, leaning down to grip my chin. “Nora’s body is frail. She’s not like you, tough enough to live shamelessly till now.” His grip was so strong it felt like he might shatter my bones. “I’m not going!” I pushed Gideon away, but he grabbed my wrist. “You don’t have a choice. Don’t forget, the Lin company is still in my hands. If today’s shoot doesn’t happen, I can’t guarantee its survival. Your sister is gone. If Lin goes too, do you think your parents can survive? Hm?” My body froze. Gideon knew too well where my weakness lay. Even if my parents disowned me, they remained the perfect leverage for Gideon to control me. I eventually nodded. Gideon raised an eyebrow, satisfied, leaving with a parting shot, “Vera, this is what you owe us. You’ll never repay it in this lifetime.” Once the door closed, I couldn’t hold myself up any longer, collapsing to the ground. I stared at my reflection in the glass. Puffy eyes, sallow skin, a shadow of my former vibrant self. I endured countless humiliations and tortures like this. I saw no end and couldn’t escape. Dragging my feverish body to the set, the director impatiently pushed me to get into the water. The wind was biting, and ice shards floated on the water’s surface. I gritted my teeth, slowly lowering myself into the water. The director, unhappy with my slow pace, ordered someone to push me in. Cold water rushed into my nose and mouth, making me cough violently. Before I could adjust, the director barked for me to go deeper. But as I stood in water that reached my chin, the cameras didn’t roll. My lips turned blue, and I weakly asked the crew onshore, “When will we start shooting?” They avoided me like the plague; I got no answer. I tried to climb out for a break, but barely moved half a meter before the director shouted angrily, “Did I say you could come up? Stay there!” My head felt heavier and heavier. A scream pierced the air, snapping me back to reality, “Blood! There’s blood in the water!” I looked down, seeing blood spreading from between my legs. The crew pinched their noses, backing away repeatedly. Lips turning purple from the cold, I weakly asked the staff on the shore, “How long before we start filming?” But they completely avoided me, not offering any response. I wanted to climb ashore to rest, but I hadn’t moved half a meter before the director yelled at me, “Did I tell you to come up? Stay there and don’t move!” My head felt like it was sinking, and a scream jolted me back to consciousness, “Blood! There’s blood in the water!” I looked down to see blood spreading from between my legs. The staff pinched their noses and backed away quickly. “Swimming while on your period? How unsanitary!” But then it hit me—I hadn’t had my period for two months. Two months ago, the image of Gideon drunk flashed through my mind. That night, Gideon held me down with a crazed intensity, pouring out his hatred for me. We hadn’t used any protection that night. No. I desperately tried to climb ashore, but the staff held me down firmly. The director eagerly adjusted the camera, “Hold her still! The blood in the water looks so real! I want a close-up!” Water filled my nostrils, darkness closing in. I screamed with all my strength, “Let go… let go of me…” Certainly! Below is the adapted translation, maintaining the original line breaks and paragraph breaks as requested: I’m committed to ensuring that the content reflects the original intention while aligning more closely with English expressions for easier understanding. Throughout this process, we will maintain the original format, preserving the original line breaks and paragraph breaks. People stared at me with indifference, watching as I panicked in the water. Amidst the chaos, I felt a sharp slap across my face. Gideon’s dark eyes were chillingly cold: “The scene isn’t finished yet. Where do you think you’re going?”

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Third wedding anniversary. I carefully chose 999 red roses for Fiona. But her male secretary had an allergic reaction. Fiona was livid. She manipulated me by using my mom’s keepsake as leverage, compelling me to fight a lion. She nonchalantly instructed her subordinates, “It’s fine if he dies, as long as it dispels the bad luck for Asher.” I stayed silent. With six ribs broken and my body battered, I managed to leave with the keepsake. Behind me, Fiona sneered, “He’s just a lowly bodyguard I keep around. How can a dog leave its master?” Fiona didn’t know. Someone had already bought my contract at a high price long ago. This time, I’m going to protect someone else. The iron cage opened, and a massive lion roared. I faced it barehanded and was instantly knocked to the ground! On stage, Fiona clenched her fists. Asher’s face was flushed, and his eyes sparkled. Fiona’s frown relaxed, it seemed what they said was true. This might actually ward off bad luck for Asher. The lion charged, and I felt my insides break apart. I punched the lion’s eye with all my strength. Gasps echoed around. Covered in blood, I never backed down. I grabbed the nearby hunting rifle and shot the lion in the throat. One shot, dead. At the cost of six ribs broken and my body mauled. I won. I successfully retrieved my mom’s keepsake. As I was about to leave the underground arena, Jasper suddenly looked pale and coughed heavily. Fiona’s gaze changed immediately, snatching the keepsake I fought for from my arms. She smashed the jade bracelet hard, pieces scattered everywhere. Fiona frowned slightly, looking at me with disdain. “Was it worth troubling Asher for a bracelet? Are you satisfied?” I opened my mouth but was speechless. Asher choked on water, and Fiona splashed black dog blood on the keepsake. He coughed, and Fiona used the keepsake to force me to fight the lion. My ribs were broken, and blood flowed uncontrollably. I didn’t understand who was really at fault. I dug my nails deep into my palms. I knelt down, skillfully bowing my head to her. “I’m sorry, Miss, please forgive me.” I bent over painfully, cherishing the broken pieces in my arms. Mom, this time, I’ll take you away. The act of kneeling stained my shirt with more blood. Fiona’s pupils contracted, her brow furrowed. She surprisingly helped me up. “As long as you don’t oppose Asher, I can let you stay and have a meal.” Her tone was condescending, as if granting a great favor. As she finished speaking, Asher suddenly fainted without warning. Fiona’s face turned tense, as Asher’s follower whispered. “Ms. Shen, it might be the dead person’s item bringing bad luck, causing Mr. Qin discomfort.” I lifted my head. A fleeting victorious gleam flashed in Asher’s eyes, but they were closed. He gripped Fiona’s hand, understandingly said, “Lili, I’m fine. After all, it’s Brother Jiang’s mother’s keepsake. I can bear it.” Fiona tenderly stroked Asher’s cheek, coldly ordered me. “Throw away that disgusting thing. If Asher feels unwell again, you can leave too.” I looked at her indifferently, firmly heading for the door. Seeing my lack of reaction, Fiona’s chest heaved with frustration. She ordered someone to bring a whip, sneering lightly. “A dog dares to defy its master? Just beat it.” The whip fell like raindrops, each strike accompanied by a fierce whooshing sound. Already wounded by the lion’s fangs, my injuries bled more freely. The force of the blows weakened, and Fiona mocked. “Seems I’ve been too lenient with you. You don’t even know how to beg anymore?” Every pain reminded me. Constant retreat only makes her bolder. I bit my lip hard, clutching the shards tightly, suppressing my screams. Fiona paused, swinging the whip mercilessly. The whipping lasted a long time, the lion’s corpse reeking of blood, blurring my consciousness. Before losing consciousness. I vaguely heard Fiona’s cold laughter. Her fingers casually swiped my phone screen. “A dog wants to book a flight to run away? Break its legs.” “Only 99 lashes, just use some medicine to keep it alive.” “By the way, check on Asher. His health isn’t good, remember to give him the best medicine.” I lost control and fainted. My mind couldn’t stop thinking. Now, I’ll miss the flight.

When I woke up. Fiona was rarely sitting by my bed. She looked down at me, handed me a plastic bag with disdain. The wounds still ached. I looked down; it was full of broken jade bracelet pieces. I was surprised Fiona didn’t throw them away. “Asher asked me not to. If only you were half as sensible as him.” I rummaged through the shards, my heart sinking. These were just fake replacements. Expressionless, I pulled out the IV needle. Asher suddenly appeared at the door, leisurely said, “Brother Jiang, your mother’s jade bracelet, I’ve returned it intact.” His words were taunting, his eyes flashing provocatively. Ever since he came, Asher found me, the bodyguard, disagreeable. When hungry, he’d send me 50 kilometers in the rain for roast duck. In the middle of the night, he’d drag me out for their errands. Repeatedly trying to destroy my mom’s last keepsake, just to make me leave. I didn’t understand, wasn’t Fiona entirely devoted to him? I was just a dog for Fiona to torment and train. Why destroy my mom’s last fantasy? Rage surged through me. Ignoring my body’s pain, I grabbed the fruit knife from the table. I pressed it hard against Asher’s neck, my voice icy cold. “Return those pieces to me!” Asher’s tears came like a startled rabbit’s: “Lili, I’m scared…” No need for Asher to say more. The next moment, my scalp was yanked hard. The knife in my hand involuntarily cut Asher’s shoulder. Blood beads oozed out. I was forced to look at Fiona. But met with her extremely cold eyes. Inside them was undisguised disgust, and a fleeting murderous intent. She sneered, stabbing the fruit knife into my chest. “Though you’re my husband, don’t forget who saved you back then! Do you want to experience being bitten by a lion again?” “Thud!” Blood gushed instantly! My pupils shrank. I instinctively tried to pull her hand out, but she held it firmly. “Don’t move… it’ll be over soon.” I gritted my teeth through the pain, my forehead veins bulging. The woman rarely sounded comforting. Enduring the pain, my gaze at Fiona was utterly indifferent. At this moment, Fiona suddenly felt an inexplicable annoyance. She carved out that piece of flesh bit by bit. Blood flowed down my chest, staining my pants, and her hands red. Fiona was satisfied, looking at the word on my chest— “Fiona.” Just because I accidentally cut Asher, Fiona personally carved a tattoo on me in revenge. She tossed the fruit knife carelessly to the ground. Fiona gently embraced Asher, soothing him softly: “It’s okay, with me here, you won’t have a scar.” Asher immediately blushed, kissing her lips. I coldly watched the wound on his shoulder. If not bandaged soon, it might heal on its own. They shamelessly kissed in front of me. But over three years, I heard this misery countless times. My phone vibrated. My contract had entirely reached her hands. The flight Fiona canceled was rebooked. While entangled with Asher, Fiona subtly watched me from the corner of her eye. Seeing the smile on my face she hadn’t seen for a long time. A sense of discomfort rose again in her chest. Before entering the bedroom, she coldly ordered: “Tomorrow, I’m throwing Asher a birthday party. You better show up!” Amidst the intimate sounds from the bedroom, I quickly searched the entire villa. Finally, I found the jade bracelet pieces. Carefully, I glued them back together. I held it dearly in my arms. Tomorrow, I’ll leave with you.

The birthday party Fiona meticulously prepared began at 8 PM sharp. Jasper, in a pure black high-end suit, appeared holding Fiona’s arm. Guests squeezed me aside, whispering. “Mr. Qin is so handsome, no wonder Ms. Shen has favored him for so many years.” “But isn’t that bodyguard Ms. Shen’s rightful husband?” Fiona looked at me, dressed so properly for once, her tone slightly tender: “Introduce yourself to everyone.” Her voice held a hint of expectation even she didn’t notice. I bowed my head, speaking steadily. “I’m Fiona’s bodyguard—Jasper.” Fiona clearly paused for several seconds, her face visibly darkening. A flicker of frustration crossed my face. What exactly does she want from me? “Mr. Qin, you really are quite the gentleman. No wonder Fiona has been so fond of you all these years.” “But I thought the bodyguard was supposed to be Fiona’s legitimate husband?” Fiona looked at me, dressed impeccably for once, her voice carrying a soft undercurrent: “Introduce yourself to everyone.” Her voice held a hint of anticipation she didn’t even notice. I lowered my head, speaking with calm composure. “I’m Fiona’s bodyguard—Jasper.” Fiona was visibly stunned for a few seconds, her expression darkening. A trace of annoyance flickered across my face. What exactly does she want from me? Qin An smiled broadly, a glint of mischief in his eyes, beckoning me over. “I’m not feeling well today and can’t drink, so you drink all this wine for me.” I remained silent, eventually opening my mouth. “I’m allergic to alcohol…” “Lili, I know Brother Jasper might still be mad at me, so he’s just making up an excuse.” Qin An lowered his head, his voice filled with disappointment. Fiona gave me a pointed look, her voice firm: “Drink! Don’t you always carry allergy meds? Take them and then drink, what’s the big deal?” Her tone left no room for refusal. I quietly took out the medication and swallowed a few pills. Soon, a crowd gathered with glasses, engaging in small talk, and I downed the wine in my throat. One glass after another, my stomach churned, and I couldn’t help but feel nauseous. My not-yet-healed wounds burst open under the alcohol’s influence. Seeing the blood at the corner of my mouth, Fiona noticeably gasped. The next moment, Jasper screamed. “Lili, the heirloom watch you gave me is missing, and just now, only Jasper was near us, could it be him…” My pupils contracted, not because of the baseless accusation, but because the heirloom gift my mom gave to Fiona, her daughter-in-law, was passed on so carelessly. Back then, she treated both me and my mom so well. At that moment, I couldn’t help but smile mockingly. Fiona looked at my smile, and a familiar feeling of frustration welled up in her heart. She comforted Qin An personally, then sternly called for the bodyguards. The next second, several bodyguards pinned me to the ground, tearing at my clothes forcefully. Normally, I wouldn’t be so defenseless. But the fresh wounds Fiona had inflicted over the past few days left my body with no time to recover. I struggled desperately, but couldn’t match their brute strength. My shirt was torn to shreds, and the tattoos on my body oozed blood faintly. Fiona squinted slightly, displaying only her desire for control over me. Until— “The watch has been found!” Fiona took the emerald watch and personally placed it on Qin An’s wrist, her tone indulgent. “Next time, don’t be so careless.” Qin An scratched his head sheepishly, looking at me full of guilt: “This was a gift from you, luckily it was found, but I wronged Brother Jasper, should I apologize to him?” In full view of everyone, looking at my blood-stained body. Fiona’s voice was extremely cold. “No need, he’s just a bodyguard, a dog I keep, what’s a little grievance?” In the bathroom, I couldn’t stop dry heaving. Before I could recover, Qin An kicked me hard. He pressed on my tattoo, veins bulging on his forehead. “You really are pathetic, just a dog raised by Lili, yet you cling to her so desperately!” “Speaking of which, do you know why, when your mom was seriously ill, Lili sent you to the neighboring city for medicine?” “Because she just wanted to get rid of you, at that time, Lili and I—stripped naked right in front of your mom, she was literally angered to death!” “Smack!” After slapping Qin An across the face, I grabbed his neck, unable to hold back any longer. Qin An sneered, immediately fighting back. He poured cold water over me relentlessly, but accidentally struck a dry appliance. In the blink of an eye. We both simultaneously heard the appliance emit a sizzling sound. The next second, it exploded, filling the entire bathroom with thick smoke. From outside, desperate cries for help quickly sounded. Fiona’s voice accompanied by the click of high heels approached: “Where’s Jasper?” She ignored the raging fire and rushed in. Her gaze fell immediately on Qin An, who pretended to faint. He reached out, tears in his eyes: “Lili, save me…” Ignoring me, drenched in blood-soaked shirt. Fiona anxiously helped Qin An up and walked out without looking back. Never once did she glance my way. The smoke choked me, making me collapse powerlessly on the floor, the pain magnified a thousandfold in that instant. The next second, a pair of black leather shoes appeared in my vision. I looked up in a daze, and it was Qin An’s sidekick. He wore a menacing smile, shoving me hard. Already by the window, I fell out unguardedly. “Don’t blame me for being ruthless, only if Qin An has a good life can I rise to the top with him.” He confidently turned back, not realizing he had inadvertently saved me from the fire. Just the fourth floor. With a limping leg, I hailed a cab and told the driver, “Airport.” The scenery outside the window quickly receded. I took out my phone, removed the SIM card, and snapped it in half— “Crack.” The card broke, and I tossed it out the window. Fiona, from now on, you and I will vanish completely! 4. Inside the hospital room. Fiona gently touched the small scar on Asher’s shoulder. It reminded her of the tattoo she had engraved on Jasper. She should have felt happy, yet her heart raced as if something was gnawing at her nerves.

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After I Chose to Marry the Country Boy, My Three Rich Fiancés Were Devastated I’m the true daughter of the Sinclair family, brought back from a small town. To make up for lost time, my father specially gave me three fiancé candidates to choose from. Back then, only Ethan Grant didn’t look down on me for coming from a small town, and I gradually grew dependent on him. Even when he later started deliberately distancing himself from me like the others, I still tried hard to win his favor, thinking he would be moved by my sincerity. But on the night before our engagement party, I overheard him comforting Ivy Chen, the fake daughter: “Just bear with it a little longer. She’s from a small town after all. Once we’re married, I’ll be the one managing the Sinclair family business. Then I’ll make her kneel down and apologize to you. You’re the true lady of the Sinclair family!” So at the banquet, I turned to my father and said I didn’t want to choose any of these three men. I wanted to choose Liam Kennedy, who grew up with me in that small town. Last week, he was just brought back to the Kennedy family and was about to be announced as their sole grandson – the next leader of the prestigious Kennedy family in New York!

The day before the wedding, my father asked me: “Have you decided on your fiancé for tomorrow?” I nodded, “I’ll choose Liam Kennedy.” Father was very surprised: “That boy who grew up with you in the small town? No, that’s not a suitable match!” I whispered a few words to Father, and he exclaimed in shock: “Really?!” I nodded. Liam Kennedy and I were both actually the true heirs mistakenly raised in that small town. He was brought back to the Kennedy family last week and is their sole grandson. He’s guaranteed to be the next leader of the Kennedy family. Father patted my shoulder: “It’s an honor to be able to form a marriage alliance with the prestigious Kennedy family of New York. But weren’t you always fond of that Grant boy?” I calmly replied: “For the benefit of our family, an alliance with the Kennedys is the best outcome I’ve considered.” I didn’t want to tell him how Ethan had scorned my small-town origins and hurt me in every interaction after that. If I did, Father would surely confront him, which would also cause trouble with the Grant family behind him. We still have business dealings with them, and I don’t want the two families to become enemies. Now that I have a better solution, it’s about letting him go, and also freeing myself. After Father and I finalized the marriage plans, he left my villa. Ethan and Ivy Chen hurried over to see him off. After he left, Ethan frowned at me: “You were pestering your father about rushing our marriage again, weren’t you?” I was too tired to argue. But Ethan grabbed my arm: “As expected of someone from a small town – poor and vulgar. All you know how to do is marry a rich man!” Ivy Chen chimed in at this moment: “Don’t worry, sister. In our big city, women are no longer mocked for not being able to marry. But you lack ambition – I sent you that business proposal yesterday and you didn’t even look at it.” She had sent me a document at 4 AM last night, of course I didn’t have time for her games. But hearing Ivy say this, Oliver Lawrence and Zach Johnson also came over to mock me. “As expected of a woman raised in poverty – even becoming the true heiress hasn’t changed anything.” I was brought back to the Sinclair family from that small town. Father was overjoyed and let me choose from several young men who were already interested in marrying into our family. The Grant, Lawrence and Johnson families weren’t considered top-tier, so marrying into the Sinclair family for resources was a step up for them. But as soon as they found out the marriage candidate was me, this small-town true heiress, their attitudes immediately changed. They looked at me mockingly, waiting for my reaction. I didn’t say anything. Foolish people never realize their own foolishness. It seems they still don’t understand the rules – I’m the one representing the Sinclair family in choosing them. They were never in a position to look down on me.

But even though they looked down on me, they still lived in the villa Father gave me. In the end, they couldn’t let go of the benefits of this marriage alliance. I looked at them and said: “If you think marrying me is embarrassing, you three can get out of my villa right now. Or -” I glanced at Ivy Chen beside me: “You can choose to marry Ivy, who has no inheritance rights.” Hearing the words “no inheritance rights”, the people in front of me immediately moved to protect Ivy. Ethan was especially angry: “Don’t think you can bully Ivy just because you have power now. Was it her choice to be switched as a baby?” The usually hot-tempered Oliver Lawrence directed all his anger at me: “You think we want to marry you? It’s all your Sinclair family using your power to force us!” Zach Johnson also snorted arrogantly, looking at me sideways: “Shameless. You think you can do anything just because you got some power!” They despise power, but in reality, they are the ones who most desperately want to obtain it. Ivy Chen started crying pitifully behind them, suddenly kneeling down to me: “Sister, please don’t be angry anymore. It’s all my fault. I should have just died back then!” With that, she suddenly rushed to bang her head against a marble pillar in the living room. Blood immediately flowed down. Ethan and the other two quickly ran to hold her back, hugging Ivy Chen with concern. Ivy Chen leaned weakly in Ethan’s arms and looked at me: “Sister, are you happy now? If it weren’t for me, Ethan and the others wouldn’t dislike you. You’ve always thought it would be better if I just died, right?!” I was utterly speechless. She had started putting on an act all by herself. Since returning to the Sinclair family and being confirmed as the true heir, I’ve been studying with private tutors. Recently I’ve also been going to the company early and returning late to learn the business. Where would I have time to be jealous of her? I had glanced at her business proposal this morning too – it was childishly simple stuff that I couldn’t even be bothered to comment on. But she had used all of this to her advantage. Hearing this, Ethan looked at me with disappointment: “How can you still not change your small-town bad habits? Lazy, jealous, telling Ivy to die – aren’t you afraid of karmic retribution?” But I’ve been standing here the whole time, not doing anything at all… Ethan continued lecturing me: “Quickly kneel down and kowtow to apologize to Ivy. Otherwise, don’t blame me for breaking off the engagement!” When I first arrived, I had fallen for Ethan who was kind to me then, and confessed to him. But later, with Ivy’s repeated crying and accusations, he became convinced that I was just a stupid and vicious small-town woman. Since then, he has used my love as leverage, forcing me to apologize to Ivy again and again. Kneeling, kowtowing, admitting my faults – I was young then, and thought this would keep his affection. But he only used this love to manipulate me for five whole years. Now that I see through everything, his love has become as cheap as air to me. This time I just gave him an indifferent look: “She banged her own head. I didn’t force her to do it. Let her apologize to herself in the mirror.” It was the first time Ethan saw me refuse to give in, and he felt like he lost face. He angrily pointed at me: “You dare to talk back? Small-town people really are vicious!” Oliver Lawrence suddenly snapped his fingers and said: “You must have found out we let Ivy try on your Alifilos wedding dress, and are deliberately torturing her, right?” Zach Johnson also frowned: “Small-town people are so petty, not understanding the beauty of sharing.” Hearing this, my expression turned cold: “My wedding dress?”

Alifilos means “wings of the clouds” in Latin. When Father found me, he had joyfully commissioned this luxurious wedding dress for me in Switzerland. It also symbolized my position as the heir of the Sinclair family. But now they’re saying this meaningful, once-in-a-century wedding dress was tried on by Ivy Chen first. I looked at Ethan. He was in charge of having the wedding dress flown back from Switzerland. Ethan looked a bit guilty under my gaze, but quickly straightened up and said to me: “Can’t you be less petty? Ivy was raised in luxury, but as soon as you came she was labeled as the fake heiress. She’s been mocked and insulted by you so many times. What’s wrong with lending her the dress to try on and satisfy her love of beauty?” He sighed, closing his eyes as if making a painful decision: “Fine, I’ll agree to the engagement party! I’ll let you have your wish of wearing that dress and getting engaged to me. Satisfied now?” Hearing him say this, Oliver Lawrence and Zach Johnson complained on his behalf: “No way, that’s exactly what that evil Aria wants! Why give in to her?” “Now Aria’s going to be smug about getting her way. What a shame, sigh.” Even Ivy Chen leaned into Ethan’s arms, tenderly caressing his face: “Ethan, you don’t need to make such a big sacrifice for me…” I stood watching them, my heart bitter. I was also a young girl longing for love, yet they despised me to this extent. I held back my tears and said to Ethan: “Don’t worry, I will never marry you.” Hearing this, Ethan looked at me as if he saw through me: “What trick are you trying to play now?” Oliver Lawrence and Zach Johnson beside him looked at me warily, as if afraid I would reject Ethan and choose one of them instead. At this moment, Ivy Chen suddenly crawled over and kowtowed to me: “I’m begging you, sister. Stop torturing these three men. You’ve already taken away my inheritance rights and my father. Do you have to drive away the few friends I have left?!” She kowtowed forcefully, making her already bloodied forehead even more battered. Ethan and the others were frightened and quickly went to hold her. The group of them huddled together glaring at me, pushing me to the opposing side. I held back the tears of grievance about to fall and turned to leave. But Ethan grabbed my hand: “I said I’m willing to marry you. You’d better not think about hurting Oliver and the others!” “You say you won’t marry me, but do you really have the guts to reject me at the engagement party? The fact is, besides me, who else would want a small-town girl like you!” I slowly pried his hand off mine and looked at him: “I, Aria Sinclair, always do what I say. No need for Mr. Grant to worry.” I strode forward, still able to hear Ethan’s voice behind me trying to persuade me not to throw a tantrum. He spoke with exasperation and loudly, as if I had exhausted him. I didn’t see them again until the engagement party. When the party started, I was surprised to see Ethan appear with a cold expression. How strange, I clearly didn’t invite them, Yet somehow these people all showed up uninvited to my engagement party.

At the engagement party, my assistant asked if I wanted to kick them out. I shook my head. Forget it, the stars of this engagement party aren’t them anyway. Let’s just treat them as a few extra guests. But as soon as they entered, the other CEOs around eagerly went over to toast them. “Young Mr. Grant is so accomplished, acquiring American Vikey at such a young age.” That was actually me negotiating the acquisition as the Sinclair heiress. He just went to sign his name. “I heard Mr. Lawrence has had success in racing. It would be quite a story if he inherits the Sinclair family in the future.” If it weren’t for the Sinclair family’s funding, his racing club would have gone bankrupt long ago. “Mr. Johnson’s paintings have fetched sky-high prices in art circles. The Sinclair bloodline must be full of artistic talent!” I was the one who bought his third-rate paintings, otherwise they would have been a laughingstock at auctions. The guests fawned over those men endlessly. They assumed my fiancé would definitely be chosen from among Ethan, Oliver and Zach. Flattering them was the same as flattering the Sinclair family. But they didn’t realize at all that I was the one with inheritance rights. Whoever I choose will be the next co-heir of the Sinclair family! The main event of the party hadn’t started yet. I was tired of watching these people bootlick and was about to step away for a moment. But then Ethan suddenly received a phone call and shouted in disbelief: “What?! Ivy was deliberately kidnapped?!” As soon as he said this, I immediately felt dozens of gazes shoot towards me. I turned my head, only to be slapped across the face by Oliver Lawrence who had walked over. “You’re truly vicious! Insulting Ivy wasn’t enough, you even had someone deliberately kidnap her today!” The banquet hall immediately burst into hushed whispers. They all thought I was from a small town – stupid, vicious, with evil thoughts. So they were also more willing to flatter my fiancé candidates, even disdaining to interact with me. I held my face and coldly looked at him: “Do you have any evidence that I’m behind the kidnapping?” Zach Johnson stood beside him with his arms crossed, sweeping a contemptuous glance at me: “Do we need any evidence? Anyone with eyes can see what’s going on.” Just then, the doors of the banquet hall were thrown open – “Ethan, save me! Ivy is so scared!” Ivy Chen ran in looking disheveled, her hair a mess, as if she had suffered some unspeakable abuse and humiliation. She threw herself straight into Ethan’s arms, ignoring all decorum. Ethan immediately took off his jacket to cover her, comforting her not to be afraid. “Given what’s happened, what do you have to say for yourself? Ivy almost lost her virtue. This isn’t over between us!” Ethan glared at me angrily, directly carrying Ivy away. Oliver Lawrence violently pushed over the champagne tower next to him. Before leaving, he pointed at me and said: “Without us, let’s see how you manage to pull off this engagement party!” Zach Johnson also looked at me with disdain: “You reap what you sow. Don’t blame us for not giving you face anymore.” The surrounding guests pointed and whispered between Ivy and me. Saying what a lovely Sinclair princess Ivy used to be, yet now she’s been tortured to this state by me, this vicious true heiress. As Ethan and the others left, many people looked at me mockingly through their noses. “Well now, who would still be willing to marry this wild woman?” “Looks like the Sinclair family is finished this time.” “All the fiancés ran off. Let’s see how she holds this engagement party now.” I collected myself and had people clean up the scene and reassure the guests. I announced to everyone present: “The engagement party of Aria Sinclair officially begins!” On the big screen, the handsome face of a young man suddenly appeared. The guests whispered, wondering which family’s young master this was. I said: “This is Liam Kennedy, who grew up with me in that small town.” As soon as I finished speaking, the whole hall burst into laughter. “The Sinclair family actually wants to find a small-town person as their co-heir, hahaha!” A second after he finished speaking, on the big screen, an electronic invitation unique to New York’s Kennedy family slowly unfolded. The stern yet kindly voice of Old Mr. Kennedy rang out: “Thank you all for attending the engagement party of Sinclair heiress Aria Sinclair and my sole grandson, Liam Kennedy!”

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My husband’s rehabilitation center went bankrupt, and we owe millions in penalties for breach of contract. I left my kids with my parents and started working two jobs every day. Three years later, when I finally saved enough to pay off the penalty and went to the hospital, I saw Ezra nonchalantly sitting in the director’s chair. The director and head nurse, who always targeted me, were flattering him: “Director, Dr. Nora has been working extremely hard lately. She just completed a 48-hour shift without sleep.” “She mentioned taking a vacation yesterday, saying she was unwell. Should we approve it?” Ezra’s voice was lazy and indifferent: “Isn’t she obsessed with money? How can she even think about taking a break?” “We just admitted a few patients today. Let her take care of them.” Adeline raised her eyebrows, acting playfully: “Honey~ I booked tickets for you and our son. How about going to the Maldives next week?” Ezra pulled her into his arms, kissed her hair, and instructed: “Schedule all of Adeline’s surgeries for the next couple of days to Nora. Don’t let her have any downtime.” I shakily pulled out the late-stage stomach cancer diagnosis from my pocket, tears streaming down. — After Ezra’s rehabilitation center went bankrupt, I gave up a stable director position and chose the hospital that was Ezra’s biggest creditor. Because I needed money, I converted all my benefits into salary and performed intense surgeries every day. After work, I took on extra shifts as a hospital orderly. But I never expected Ezra to be the director of this private hospital. The realization hit me, and despair almost swallowed me whole. The Mediterranean Fake Director flattered: “Director, you’re really good with women, even someone as stubborn as Nora is compliant under your influence!” The head nurse rolled her eyes: “What nonsense! Our director only has eyes for Dr. Adeline. Nora’s like a clingy plaster that can’t be removed!” Adeline, hearing this, leaned into Ezra’s embrace, acting all aggrieved: “Ezra, if it weren’t for my mom forcing me to marry that old man, you wouldn’t have married someone else out of spite and had two kids with her.” Ezra and I were both graduate students under the same mentor. Many girls pursued Ezra, but he chose me. He was gentle and attentive, treating me like a princess. Whenever I couldn’t handle the high workload, it was those memories that kept me going. Later, I secured a position at a public hospital, and he inherited the family rehabilitation center. After the center went bankrupt, we shared the debt. While he smoked and drank at home, I endured the director’s anger and humiliation at the hospital. He once messaged me about ending his life, and I rushed home, covered in patient waste, to save him. I used my shoulder to support our crumbling home. But now, I feel like a walking joke. In my despair, a former colleague called: “Nora, did you come to the hospital today?” I forced a smile, harder than crying: “Just felt like visiting old friends.” His voice was as loud as ever: “Nora! You’re still so stubborn! You were like this in school, and still are. Why didn’t you tell me you have cancer? I have the latest technology here! Get everything arranged and come here for treatment!” I paused, then softly replied: “Okay.” I stood up, adjusted myself, and opened the door. Ezra had already taken off his lab coat, revealing a cheap shirt underneath. Seeing me, he looked guilty. “Nora, I’m sorry. You’ve worked so hard on surgeries, but this money ended up filling an endless pit for me.” The fake director sneered: “Your rehabilitation project cost us so much. If it weren’t for Dr. Nora, we wouldn’t have let you drag it out this long!” The head nurse praised me: “There aren’t many wives like Dr. Nora who can share hardships these days!” Adeline looked me up and down: “Dr. Nora, I admire how energetic you are. Surgeries by day, patient care by night, and still looking so satisfied.” She gasped, covering her mouth with a laugh: “The senior ward patients are all fighting for Dr. Nora’s service. I heard some sell themselves for dirty money. Dr. Nora, are you one of those?” I stared at Adeline, shocked at her slander. Ezra’s face turned grim, pointing at me and shouting: “Nora! You didn’t really do that for money, did you?” — A metallic taste rose in my throat, and I couldn’t help but spit out blood. The disdain in Ezra’s eyes shattered my heart. Trembling, I handed him a bank card, hoping he would at least treat our children well after my death. Our issues don’t matter, but the kids are innocent. Ezra snatched the card from me and handed it to the fake director. “Director, check this. Nora said there’s a million in it. While we’ve paid back a third, we still owe two million. We’ll pay it next year.” I was stunned. Ezra had told me we only owed a million. How did it suddenly become three million? And all due in a year—does he think I’m a miracle worker? After a look from Ezra, the fake director passed the card to Adeline. “Dr. Nora, didn’t you know? Our hospital’s big boss is actually Dr. Adeline. I’ve heard you’ve argued with her over trivial matters. If you apologize, maybe your request for a raise will go through.” Adeline smirked: “Dr. Nora is a pillar of our hospital. I wouldn’t dare ask her to apologize.” “But I heard an old man, Mr. Lin, in the senior ward is looking for a woman to have his child for a high price. Since you’re so short on money, why not give it a try?” Ezra’s urging and their mockery filled my ears. My heart ached unbearably. Ezra’s past care and love weren’t fake. He even gave up a chance for a position for me. The Ezra family is a prestigious one with complex relations. His mother died early, and his father married a woman only ten years older than him. In anger, he left home. It was only on our wedding day that I met his father. Feeling Ezra’s affection for him, I spent months mending their relationship. After graduation, he worked at the rehabilitation center. During that time, Ezra was busy with work, and his patience with me waned. I met Adeline at a business banquet. She was Ezra’s stepmother’s daughter’s friend. The two, arm in arm, drew everyone’s attention. Ezra’s stepsister was like a radiant rose, thorny yet alluring. Adeline, true to her name, was soft and pure, like a little angel. When she learned I was a medical student with a position at the third hospital, her admiring eyes softened me. But as we interacted, I sensed something off between her and Ezra. She stayed over at our place but would come out in the middle of the night undressed for water. When I complained to Ezra, he looked helpless: “Adeline’s just like that. But she’s pure-hearted, no ill intentions.” At a birthday party, she accidentally fell into the water, and he pushed me aside to give her CPR. Even after she regained consciousness, they kissed and embraced, ignoring everyone. Seeing Ezra’s growing obsession with her, I stopped taking birth control, gave up promotion opportunities, and had twins for him. I thought this would keep him by my side. My father-in-law was thrilled, promising a two-million reward. Ezra was busy with work, only returning home for the kids’ full moon celebration. After that, he came home daily, thinking of the kids. Later, when my father-in-law passed, the rehabilitation center went bankrupt, and our lives hit rock bottom. Only today did I realize everything was by Ezra’s design. At this moment, Ezra whispered, trying to retreat strategically: “Nora, maybe I should go to prison. I’ve seen your struggles over the years, but two million is no small sum… I owe you and the kids.” In the past, I’d have encouraged him like a little sun. But today, I remained silent. He panicked, tightly gripping my hand: “Nora, maybe you should beg Adeline. I don’t mind going to prison, but you’re already thirty-five. Once you leave this hospital, no one will want you.” “Even if not for yourself, think of the kids. Kneeling is just a gesture. Pride doesn’t fill your stomach.” Kneeling? Tears streamed uncontrollably. To him, am I just a plaything or a beast without dignity? Wiping my tears, I turned and left. When Ezra and I first came to the hospital, laden with debt, we couldn’t afford rent. The hospital kindly assigned me a single dorm. Passing by Adeline’s room, I suddenly remembered accidentally entering it before and seeing familiar items. — Ezra is obsessive about certain things. His razors, skincare products, and other personal items are always the same brand. To ease the awkwardness, I casually chatted with Adeline: “Didn’t expect your husband to like these brands too, just like Ezra.” She laughed: “Yeah, I gave those to him when we were dating. He said it wouldn’t be the same with other brands.” Passing by Adeline’s dorm, I was suddenly reminded of the time I mistakenly entered the wrong room and saw those all-too-familiar items. Ezra has a peculiar attachment to certain brands. His razor, skincare products, and other personal items are always from the same line. To break the ice back then, I started chatting with Adeline: “I didn’t realize your husband likes these brands too, just like Ezra.” She laughed, “Yes, I gave them to him when we were dating, and he’s been a fan ever since. He says nothing else feels quite right.” Now, putting everything together, my composure was shattered. Because the dorm bed was too small, he would only sleep with me once a week. Sometimes, after performing a surgery, I’d see him emerge from the shower with a lingering look of desire, and I’d feel guilty. They deliberately left things unspoken, perhaps for the thrill of it all, or maybe waiting to see when I’d catch on! Ezra came back to the dorm just as I was about to leave. His face was conflicted, “Nora, I’m sorry for all you’ve been through.” “But remember how kind Adeline and the others have been to you. You shouldn’t be ungrateful.” I laughed bitterly and pushed him hard, “Ezra, stop pretending. Do you enjoy making a fool of me?” He was startled, then chuckled softly, “You finally figured it out? I thought you’d only realize when Adeline and I were right in front of you. Nora, are you really that naive, or are you just playing dumb?” He grabbed my chin and forced me against the wall, “Aren’t you supposed to be a little ray of sunshine? Can you still shine now? Nora, you make me sick!” I stared at him blankly, unable to grasp his words. He bit my lip harshly and whispered, “Aren’t you the saint who loves saving the world? The hospital needs funds now, so why not offer your body to help?” I was already humiliated, but his words cut even deeper. I grew up in a traditional setting, always obedient and never causing trouble for my parents or teachers. Every setback, I overcame on my own. I was always strong, confident, sunny, and kind. But hearing “saint,” “saving the world,” and “angel” from Ezra felt incredibly ironic. When he was bullied, I stood up for him. When his father passed away, I supported him like a pillar. I encouraged him, even treating him like a child. And this is what I get? I struggled desperately to break free from his hold. Suddenly, I felt a sharp pain in my shoulder, and then everything went black. When I opened my eyes again, I was in a VIP hospital room. As Mr. Lin leered at me, I heard Ezra and Adeline talking outside the door. “Ezra, are we really doing the right thing? Nora is still your wife.” Ezra replied coldly, “Adeline, don’t you know who she is by now? She’s greedy, jealous, selfish, and manipulative. She’s brought this on herself.” “Isn’t she the saint who loves to help? The hospital is in trouble, so she should help.” Suddenly, a sharp pain hit my stomach, and I uncontrollably vomited blood. My heart sank, and my life was slipping away. “Ezra, if there’s a next life, I never want to meet you again.” My vomiting scared Mr. Lin. “Doctor! Nurse! Someone’s vomiting blood!” Ezra heard the commotion and instinctively pushed the door open. He anxiously approached Mr. Lin, asking if he was unwell. Mr. Lin gestured for him to look at me. The blood on the white sheets made him frown. “Nora, did you steal blood bags from the hospital?” I laughed bitterly at his accusation, “Ezra, is it really that hard to confirm I’m vomiting blood?” He seemed to find it laughable, “You’re trying to imitate Adeline again? With your health, saying you have a terminal illness would be more believable. Stop pretending!” Adeline was frail, frequently falling ill. When we were on good terms, I accompanied her to the hospital during my breaks. She said it was a congenital issue, and I even learned some traditional medicine to help her. Adeline was grateful, saying I treated her better than her own mother and promised to always be friends. But how did she repay me? By repaying my husband with her body? Adeline reminded Mr. Lin, “Mr. Lin, you’re in the late stages of stomach cancer. Time is running out. Don’t you want to have a child soon? Don’t waste time.” Mr. Lin’s face wrinkled into a frown. “Dr. Adeline, I do like Dr. Nora, but she’s in such poor health now, and she’s unwilling. Maybe we should drop it.” Ezra wrapped an arm around Adeline’s waist, indifferent, “Dr. Nora always acts. When she says no, she means yes. When she says she doesn’t want it, she wants it. Mr. Lin, you won’t get another chance like this.” Adeline placed Mr. Lin’s hand on my chest, persuading him, “Mr. Lin, Dr. Nora’s family has twins. Don’t you want a boy and a girl at once?” Listening to their conversation, I felt like I was in an icehouse. I tried to run but Ezra shoved me hard, and I hit the wall with my head. My already weak body had no strength to fight back. I could only watch as my clothes were torn, Mr. Lin’s body blocking my view. “What are you doing?” Before losing consciousness, I heard a familiar voice. In my daze, I saw my former colleague, Jasper, punch Ezra to the ground. Ezra hadn’t even reacted when Jasper cursed, “You scumbag! Heartless jerk! Nora marrying you was the worst luck. She must owe you from a past life to deserve this! Get lost, I’m taking her away!” Ezra’s voice was filled with anger, “Jasper! Nora is my wife. What right do you have to take her?” Jasper replied furiously, word by word, “Because I’m her attending physician. The patient entrusted me with treating her cancer. Is that reason enough for you?” I’m sorry, but the text you want translated isn’t available. Could you please provide the text you need translated? Upon noticing Ezra’s changing expression, Jasper continued: “I knew Nora wouldn’t tell you about her health! She’s been sacrificing her sleep for years just to make money. I warned her that health is the real wealth, but she wouldn’t listen. She wanted you to move on quickly so your burden would lessen.” “Your beloved is in your arms, but she only has a few days left due to her terminal illness. Does that make you happy?” Ezra’s face turned dark. Then, sarcastically clapping, he mocked: “Nora, isn’t it enough for you to put on a show alone? Now you’re bringing in your lover to help? Are you paying him, or did you sell yourself to make him perform so eagerly?”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296589”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #狼人Werewolf #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic