Three years ago, I entered into a business arrangement for the sake of my family’s company, agreeing to a three-year marriage contract with Gideon Reed of Reed Corporation. During these years, whenever rumors surfaced about Gideon and Phoebe Walters from Walters Corporation, I would always step forward to clarify the situation on their behalf. But today, when Phoebe confronted me with ultrasound results, I had to face the truth. “Gideon hasn’t been with you all these years, has he? You’ve held this title for three years. It’s time you acknowledge reality and stop dreaming about something that’s not yours.” At that moment, I knew it was time. “Let’s get a divorce.” I presented the divorce papers to Gideon. After three years, this contractual marriage was finally reaching its end. He sneered, tapping his elegant fingers on the table. “Don’t forget, I paid for you!” I laughed. The next day, at the company’s shareholders’ meeting, I attended as the CEO. Holding another man’s hand, under Gideon’s pale gaze, I calmly announced, “I am divorced, and this is my new fiancé.”

Three years ago, I stood by the floor-length window in the top office of Reed Corporation, clutching the newly signed marriage agreement. The edges of the paper were crumpled from my tense grip. “Miss Adeline Reed, I hope you remember your role.” Gideon’s voice came from behind, cold and businesslike. “This is merely a transaction.” As I turned to leave, Phoebe Walters passed by me, her eyes filled with challenge and disdain, silently reminding me that I was just a pawn bought with money. She threw herself into Gideon’s arms, his eyes soft and tender as he looked at her. But when he looked at me, his gaze was always distant. Three years ago, when my father suddenly fell ill, our family business faced a crisis. Even in decline, our company held valuable core nanotechnology. My father agreed to Reed Corporation’s investment proposal, with the condition that Gideon and I marry. Gideon, always the astute businessman, agreed after some thought but demanded that I sign a marriage contract in private. For three years, Gideon consistently reminded me that ours was a contractual marriage. So, when rumors about him and Phoebe frequently emerged, I always remembered my role and helped clear them up. But today, Phoebe invited me to a café and confronted me with the ultrasound results. “Gideon hasn’t been with you all these years, has he? You’ve held this title for three years. It’s time you acknowledge reality and stop dreaming about something that’s not yours.” “Will you leave voluntarily, or do you need Gideon to force you out? Let’s keep this dignified, shall we?” When I returned home in the evening, finding Gideon there was unusual. His usual cold gaze sent a shiver down my spine. After hesitating for a moment, I finally said the words that should have ended this farce long ago. Unexpectedly, we both spoke at the same time. “Have you eaten?” “Let’s divorce.” The atmosphere instantly cooled. I saw Gideon’s slight frown. “Adeline, you don’t have the right to bring this up. Don’t forget, you were bought for a high price. I decide when it ends.” He dropped these words and headed to the bathroom. I was grateful to him for spending three billion to save the Reed Family, but every time he humiliated me, my heart still ached. Touching the wedding ring on my finger, its cold texture reminded me of the essence of this marriage—a three-billion-dollar investment in exchange for the empty title of Mrs. Reed. On our wedding night, Gideon didn’t even toast with me. He signed the marriage agreement and rushed back to the company for a ‘meeting.’ Not long after he left, Phoebe sent a photo of herself nestled in Gideon’s embrace, with a hotel in the background. The sound of water in the bathroom suddenly stopped. I hastily wiped my eyes. Gideon emerged in a robe, his hair still dripping. Upon seeing me, he frowned noticeably: “Why are you still here?” Since our marriage, we had slept in separate rooms. Gideon confined my activities to the guest room. “I…” I stood up nervously and accidentally knocked over the scented candle on the table. The sound of glass shattering was particularly piercing in the silent bedroom. “Sorry, I’ll clean it up right away…” He grabbed my wrist. “No need.” I froze, smelling the faint scent of cedarwood and shower gel on him. This was the first time we were so close. Close enough for me to see the shadow his eyelashes cast. “Mrs. Reed,” he let go of my hand, his tone warning, “remember your role. Play your part well. You have no right to have your own thoughts.” Role. What a ridiculous word. I crouched down to pick up the glass shards, not realizing my palm was cut and bleeding. It wasn’t until I heard the sound of the master bedroom door being locked that I realized I was crying. As night deepened, I curled up in the guest room bed, staring at the message my father sent me. “Adeline, you’ve worked hard all these years.” Suddenly, lightning flashed outside, followed by pouring rain. Driven by a strange impulse, I walked to the master bedroom door, raising my hand to knock—when I was little and afraid of thunder, I always hugged a stuffed animal and went to find my mom. But my hand fell back down, remembering this wasn’t home, and Gideon wasn’t someone who would comfort me. Just then, my phone screen lit up, a text from an unknown number appeared. “Miss Reed, how have you been? You’re such a heartless woman. I was planning to propose to you when I returned to the country.” I stared at the unknown number, my heart skipped a beat. I knew who it was. Asher Greene. Gideon’s biggest overseas business rival, and… my first love.

The rain battered the floor-to-ceiling windows. I stared at the text, my fingers hovering above the screen, unable to reply. Asher Greene— That name was like a sharp knife, easily cutting open the memories I had carefully sealed. The phone suddenly vibrated, startling me nearly into dropping it. It was an unknown number, and I couldn’t resist pressing the answer button. “Hello?” I lowered my voice, fearing to wake the person in the master bedroom. “Adeline, long time no see.” A deep male voice came from the other end, with a lazy smile. “How’s life as Mrs. Reed?” I gripped the phone tightly: “How do you know my number?” “I always know what I want to know.” He paused, “Like I know you’re hiding in the guest room crying right now.” I quickly looked around, feeling as if he was watching me from a corner: “Are you spying on me?” “I just happened to see your husband with another woman going to a hotel yesterday after I returned to the country, so I guessed you weren’t doing well.” I bit my lip, a sharp pain piercing my heart. His voice suddenly turned serious, “Open the door, I’m downstairs at your house.” “What?” I rushed to the window and indeed saw a black Maybach parked in the rain, its headlights casting blurry halos in the rain. “Are you crazy? This is Gideon’s mansion!” “So what?” He chuckled, “Afraid your husband will be jealous?” “Your husband already has a new girlfriend. I don’t mind being your boyfriend. It’s fair like that.” I bit my lip, not answering. He always teased like this, often leaving me blushing and at a loss for words. In the sound of the rain, I heard the car door close on the other end, followed by the sound of leather shoes stepping into a puddle. He really got out of the car. “Asher Greene! Don’t you—” “Either you come down, or I ring the doorbell.” He interrupted me, “Choose one.” I hurriedly put on a coat and slipped downstairs barefoot. As I opened the side door of the mansion, cold rain splashed on my ankles. Asher stood at the bottom of the steps with a black umbrella, his tailored suit accentuating his broad shoulders. In three years, a small scar had appeared at the corner of his eye, adding a dangerous allure to him. “You…” I was about to speak when he suddenly stepped forward, tilting the umbrella to cover me. Too close. Close enough for me to smell the faint ebony scent on him, just like I remembered. “Why are you crying?” He wiped my tears with his thumb, the warmth of his touch making me flinch. Then he lifted my arm, placing my foot on his shoe. “Did Gideon bully you?” I quickly stepped back, my back hitting the cold door frame. “It’s none of your business.” Asher’s eyes darkened, and he suddenly pulled a shell from his pocket. “Remember this?” In the moonlight, the crack on the shell was clear— It was from when I accidentally cut him by the sea in our junior year. Memories surged like waves, merging the Asher who stayed on the phone with me all night because I was afraid of the dark, with the dangerous man before me. “Adeline…” He took a step forward, the umbrella shielding us from the world, “I can help you.” “Help me with what?” “Leave Gideon.” His voice was a soft sigh, “Just say the word.” Suddenly, the sound of glass breaking came from the second floor. I looked up, the master bedroom curtains swaying violently—someone was there. Asher followed my gaze, a smirk forming on his lips. “Looks like your husband is awake.”

The master bedroom lights suddenly blazed, the glaring light cutting through the rain and shining down. I froze, while Asher calmly stepped forward, shielding me in the shadows. “Looks like Mr. Reed is a light sleeper, interrupted sleep can affect a man’s married life.” “Don’t you think so?” He seemed to be probing something. Once again, I blushed, biting my lip, unsure of how to respond. **2.** The sound of glass shattering suddenly echoed from the second floor. I glanced up to see the master bedroom curtains shaking violently—someone was there. Asher Greene followed my gaze and smirked coldly. “Looks like your husband’s awake.” **3.** The master bedroom lights blazed on, the intense brightness cutting through the rain. I froze, but Asher Greene calmly stepped forward, shielding me in the shadows with his body. “It seems Mr. Reed is a light sleeper. A restless man can have a troubled marriage.” “Don’t you think so?” He seemed to be probing. I blushed again, biting my lip, unsure of how to respond. He seemed quite satisfied with my reaction. Lowering his voice, he gently rubbed the shell with his fingertips, “I’ll give you three days to think it over.” A gold-embossed business card was slipped into my palm, with a hotel room number scrawled on the back. Before I could decline, the second-floor window flew open, and Gideon Reed’s cold voice shouted down. “Who’s there?” Asher Greene elegantly took a half-step back, raising the umbrella to reveal his smiling eyes. “Mr. Reed, sorry for the late visit.” His fingers brushed my wrist, seemingly by accident. “I came to pick up something I left with Adeline.” He pronounced ‘Adeline’ with intimate familiarity. The rain suddenly intensified. I clutched the hot business card, watching Gideon’s expression flicker in the lightning. He stood motionless in his robe, like a cold statue. “Leave.” The word splashed to the ground, mingling with the rain. Asher Greene bowed gracefully, leaving one last whisper in my ear before leaving. “There’s a surprise hidden in the shell.” The Maybach’s taillights disappeared into the rain as I turned to face Gideon’s brooding gaze. He had somehow moved to the staircase, his robe’s collar wide open, revealing ambiguous red marks on his collarbone— The marks left by the Walters heiress on last week’s finance magazine cover. “Explain.” I thought he meant Asher, but then I saw him holding out my antidepressant medication, the one I’d been taking since we got married. I reached for the bottle, but he grabbed my wrist, pinning it against the wall. Pills scattered everywhere, sticking to the wet floor. “Mr. Reed is concerned about what his wife takes, huh?” Before I could finish, he suddenly kissed me, a punishment tinged with the taste of blood. My back hit the doorframe hard, blacking out my vision with pain. When he finally let go, I heard my own ragged breathing mixed with his hoarse questioning: “Where did he touch you?” I licked the split on my lip and suddenly laughed. “Do you really care?” Gideon’s eyes darkened. As he moved closer again, the butler’s panicked voice came from upstairs. “Mr. Reed! The video conference from New York has been moved up!” He released me, his knuckles turning white: “Wait for me to return.” Watching his retreating figure, I slowly uncurled my clenched palm to reveal the shell. Inside the crack was a tiny USB drive— Engraved with “Southeast Asia project vulnerability analysis for Reed Corporation.” The rain stopped, moonlight casting over the mess of scattered pills, each one reflecting my shattered reflection. **4.** The next evening, I opened the USB drive on my computer. As it loaded, the financial vulnerabilities of Reed Corporation spread out on the screen like a web. I stared at those deliberately hidden deficit numbers, my fingers unconsciously tracing the marks Gideon had left on my neck. In the study, my phone suddenly vibrated. A message from Asher Greene: “Did you see the surprise?” I was about to reply when footsteps sounded in the hallway. In a hurry, I pulled out the USB drive, accidentally knocking over the coffee cup. The brown liquid soaked into the divorce agreement, staining the spot where my name was written. “Not asleep yet?” Gideon’s voice came from behind me. He was in a suit, carrying the chill of the night, though his tie was crooked— Unlike his usual meticulous self. “Waiting for you.” I closed the laptop, pushing the wet document into the drawer. “Weren’t you supposed to be in New York for three days?” He loosened his tie, his gaze landing on my neck. “Changed plans last minute.” He suddenly leaned over, pressing down on the hand I was using to close the drawer. “What’s this?” The coffee-stained paper still showed the stark words “divorce agreement.” Gideon’s pupils shrank, and I could smell the strong scent of whiskey on his breath. “Explain.” His voice was soft, but his knuckles were white. “As you see.” I pulled my hand away. “The three-year contract is up.” Gideon suddenly laughed. He threw a stack of documents from his briefcase, the top one being a letter of intent from Walters Corporation. “You think divorcing now will allow the Reed Family to walk away unscathed?” I flipped through the documents, my heart sinking—Walters’ investment terms clearly stated: Gideon’s marital status must remain stable. “Such a pity.” His cold fingertips traced my collarbone. “Old Mr. Walters and your father have agreed, using nano core as leverage, your father has planned the rest of your life.” “Now, your freedom is worth five hundred million.” Suddenly, lightning and thunder lit his eyes with madness. As he lowered his head to kiss me, my phone lit up. The latest email from Asher Greene: “Complete chain of evidence regarding Reed Corporation’s financial fraud.” “No need.” I opened the email in front of him. “Mr. Reed, my father will respect my choice, but do you think Walters will still invest after seeing this?” Gideon’s expression froze. I stood up, slapping the soaked divorce agreement against his chest. “Sign it before dawn.” I’m sorry, it seems there’s no text provided for translation. Could you please provide the specific content that you want translated? 5. Gideon Reed’s hand paused as the divorce agreement slipped to the floor. “And by the way, I’m aware that Phoebe Walters is pregnant. I won’t hide your affair any longer.”

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I finally divorced my ex-husband. His current wife struts around in front of me, as if she’s achieved some grand victory. I can only feel pity for her. Because she doesn’t yet realize that she’ll soon be bruised and battered. 1 The violent struggle stirred up dust and sweat, blurring my vision. Tears mingled with snot ran down my face: “Please, don’t, I’m begging you!” My school uniform was torn to shreds. Two boys pinned my arms, while two more held my legs. A blond guy leaned over me, his foul breath hitting my cheek. I felt a chill between my legs as my school pants were pulled down to my knees. My legs were forcibly spread apart. Declan leaned casually against the doorframe, watching it all like a spectator. I called out to him for help: “Help me… Declan, help me!” In return, I got a slap to the face. He slowly walked over to me, squatted down, and lifted my chin. His face was still handsome, with soft bangs covering his forehead, looking gentle and harmless. But what he said made my heart sink: “Help you? Do you know who brought them here?” 2 I woke up from the nightmare in a cold sweat. The Snapchat notification chimed; it was a message from Uncle, inviting us home for dinner. I remembered today was my wedding anniversary with Declan. When I answered the phone, a girl’s sweet voice spoke: “Who’s this? Declan is busy right now.” The noise on the other end was deafening. I lowered my eyes: “Could you tell him his dad wants him home for dinner?” The girl’s voice was playful, like a little songbird: “Declan, your wife wants you home for dinner!” His voice came lazily from a distance: “Not going.” As I was about to hang up, Declan’s voice suddenly came through the phone: “Maeve, come pour the drinks.” Laughter erupted. I went alone to the private room he always booked at The Regency and found him there. His suit jacket was draped over the sofa, a shirt button undone, his face hidden in shadows, expression unclear. In his arms was the company’s new secretary, Esme. His circle of friends, at least twenty or thirty of them, sat with legs crossed, ready for a show. Declan nodded at me. I bent down and poured drinks for each of them. None of them said thank you; they knew Declan didn’t like me, so they didn’t have to be polite. Someone took the chance to touch my hand, and seeing Declan didn’t react, when I circled back, they placed a hand on my thigh. I shuddered and instinctively moved back, causing the tray to tip over, and the bottles and glasses shattered on the floor. The laughter stopped, and Declan’s gaze, sharp as knives, turned toward me. The opportunist quickly said: “Oh, Maeve, how clumsy of you. No worries, I’ll call for cleaning.” A flash of silver fell to the ground, mixing with the glass shards. Esme looked panicked: “Declan just gave me that diamond ring! It accidentally fell!” She nestled in Declan’s arms, smiling sweetly and innocently, her dark eyes captivating: “Could you help me find it, sis?” 3 In the dim room, I had to crawl on the floor like a dog, my face almost touching the ground. Glass shards pierced my knees, palms, and fingertips, drawing blood. The others were used to it, drinking and singing as usual. Only one gaze was firmly locked on me. A chill ran down my spine. I found the ring under the coffee table and handed it to Esme. Declan took it, frowned slightly, and tossed it in the trash: “It’s dirty. I’ll buy you a new one.” 4 I wasn’t that upset. Declan didn’t love me. He married me just to make revenge convenient. The prolonged torment had eased since Esme appeared. If he truly loved her, it would be a good thing for me. I went to the Aiden family alone that weekend. Just as I sat down, Declan appeared. Felix looked at his son curiously: “Didn’t you have something at the company?” The knife and fork in my hand shook. Declan sat next to me, naturally took my hand, and smiled warmly: “There was something, but I let Maeve come first. Then I thought it was inappropriate, so I postponed it.” “Being with Maeve is more important.” Felix nodded approvingly. My mom placed a piece of beef brisket in Declan’s bowl. He replied politely: “Thank you, Auntie.” On a cold winter night, a family gathered happily for a delicious dinner. To an outsider, it would seem warm and cozy. No one knew my palm under the table was already sweaty. Declan held my hand with all his strength. As expected, Felix asked us to stay the night. The room plunged into darkness, and I lay rigidly next to Declan, as if this luxurious bedroom were a tomb. He scoffed, turning to hug me from behind, his hand tracing my curves. His voice was void of warmth: “Maeve, you’re getting more boring.” I hoped he’d stop out of boredom, but the reality was the opposite. In the year we were married, I could count our intimate moments on one hand. “Are you scared of me?” he whispered in my ear, his actions relentless. A rhetorical question. I closed my eyes, enduring the ordeal. Tears slid down my cheeks, and his lips found them, licking them away. “Maeve, it’s normal for couples to do this.” “Didn’t you always say you wanted to marry me when you were little?” 5 Declan was nice to me before. When I first moved to the Aiden family with my mom, everything was new, moving from a poor area to a mansion. One night, I accidentally broke a glass in the kitchen. My mom beat me while scolding: “You stupid girl, do you know how much that glass costs?” “Don’t touch anything in this house! Why don’t you listen?!” I was eleven, and Declan was twelve. He was already growing tall, slender and graceful. He stopped my mom: “It’s okay, Auntie. It’s just a glass.” Then he found me sobbing behind the garden fence, crouched beside me for a long time. Seeing I wouldn’t stop crying, he offered a plum candy: “Have something sweet, you won’t feel so bad.” “I wish my mom had the energy to beat me.” I stopped crying, curious: “What’s wrong with your mom?” He looked up at the sparse stars, smiling bitterly: “She locked herself in her room and won’t come out.” I heard the lady of the house had depression and needed care for her daily life, so my mom was hired as a live-in helper. After that, I became Declan’s little shadow. He showed me every plant in the garden. As a transfer student, he was afraid I’d be bullied, so he went to and from school with me every day. During holidays, he’d even teach me piano. He said: “My mom was a famous pianist. I could play Bach’s Minuet before I could walk.” He was enchanting when he played, as if the sun favored him, shining only on his face. When I learned to play “Dream Wedding,” I watched his focused profile for a long time, my face hot, and stuttered: “Declan, when I grow up, can I be your bride?” He didn’t answer, just smiled and ruffled my hair. Felix often joked with my mom that since the two kids got along so well, maybe they should arrange a marriage. I thought life would continue smoothly like that. Surely it would all fall into place. Until Declan’s mother fell from the rooftop, right in front of us. 6 He pulled away abruptly, getting dressed. I gasped for air like a fish thrown ashore. He buttoned his cuffs and answered a call. I heard Esme’s voice on the other end. She said she was scared, working late, the alley too dark, and she thought someone was following her. Declan dressed quickly and left without looking back. Just moments ago in bed, I felt his loss of control. But now, I was sure only Esme could make him lose his mind. Everything that happened was just a punishment for me. But this punishment was completely senseless. I realized this only after becoming an adult. Esme joined the company half a year ago. With her second-rate degree, she shouldn’t have been hired. But after her interview, she fainted in the elevator from low blood sugar. I was just returning to the company with Declan when the elevator door opened, and a young girl fell into his arms. Declan took her to a nearby hospital. After learning she was an orphan, her adoptive mother cut ties after college, and she hadn’t eaten in two days— He gave her a job. So she became the company receptionist. Declan was conflicted. Outwardly, he seemed kind and just, sympathetic to the unfortunate, with the company donating a lot each year. But in reality, he unleashed his negative emotions on me. At first, Esme was like any naive college graduate, sweet-talking and calling me “sis” whenever she saw me. College students learn quickly. Noticing the lack of respect for me as the CEO’s wife, she started using my first name directly.

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I’m in the final stages of a terminal illness, with only a few days left to live. The doctor has advised me to notify my family to make final arrangements. Unfortunately, my brother Declan believed Esme’s lies, thinking I bullied her throughout high school, and blocked me long ago. While I was fighting for my life in the emergency room, Esme merely had a mild fever from the flu, and Declan waited outside her film set all night. The usually detached Declan appeared visibly worried. “Please, go see a doctor. Even a small cold shouldn’t be ignored.” Online followers were moved by his profound affection. As I was nearing the end, I called the cemetery’s sales office. “Everything’s set, right? No need for a funeral, just cremate me.” “Burn the sheet music Declan wrote for me with me too.” I died on my twentieth birthday. Declan never realized that it was Esme who bullied me for three years and swapped my medical records of terminal illness. The attending physician sighed softly and covered me with a white sheet. The sharp beeping of the monitor was a stark reminder that I was truly gone. A flash of white light, and suddenly I was outside Esme’s film set. Declan held her tenderly, her forehead adorned with a fever patch. She nuzzled against his chest and said playfully, “It’s just a little cold, you didn’t have to cancel work to come back for me.” “No matter where you are, I’ll wait patiently for your return. I’ll take good care of myself.” She nestled into Declan’s arms, her smile sweet. Declan repeatedly checked her forehead and only relaxed when he was sure she was fine. Esme took his hand and said with a hint of regret, “I had a surprise for you, but you arrived even before the gift.” Declan affectionately ruffled her hair, “More than surprises, I just want you to be healthy and happy, always by my side.” Esme’s fans eagerly captured their sweet moment. They marveled at Declan’s deep love. They felt sorry for Esme, who had to work late despite being sick. A bold fan spoke up first, “Mr. Nolan, did you really give up a nine-figure project just to be with Esme while she’s sick?” Declan held Esme close and replied calmly, “I was at the temple to fulfill a vow. The abbot suggested I return; Esme is always my priority.” Esme shyly added, “He worries too much about me. The abbot hinted he might lose his love, so he insisted on seeing me immediately.” “I won’t let Nolan or my fans down. I’ll take better care of myself and work hard. The flu is going around; everyone, please take care of yourselves too!” After speaking, she smiled and waved to the fans. Declan said firmly, “Even if the abbot hadn’t hinted, knowing Esme caught a cold, I would have rushed back immediately.” Fans expressed their admiration openly. “Esme is beautiful and hardworking; she’s sure to become a sensation!” “Mr. Nolan is handsome and capable, and so selfless too. I’m truly envious!” “When’s the engagement? We’re all waiting for the good news!” Fans’ cameras clicked away at the couple, “Mr. Nolan, you gave up such a big project. Do you really have no regrets?” Declan, who usually shied away from online publicity, stood confidently by Esme this time. “I never regret my decisions. Besides, my motivation for work is to give Esme a better life.” In the crowd, someone frowned and muttered, “Nolan? I remember he has a sister. I saw her at the hospital today, maybe I was mistaken.” His murmurs were drowned out by the crowd. Just like me, always an overlooked existence. Chapter 2 Perhaps due to a familial bond, my soul lingered near Declan. After helping Esme into the car, his secretary hesitated, “Are you still planning to celebrate Cora’s birthday today?” Declan paused, and a second later, he frowned slightly. Today is my twentieth birthday, yet he returned to San Francisco because of Esme. He casually browsed my social media, noticing I hadn’t posted my usual midnight birthday update this year, a hint of irritation flashing in his eyes. Esme curiously leaned over and asked, “You rushed back from abroad, and she didn’t even show any concern? Some sister she is.” Declan irritably turned off his phone, “She’s just spoiled, throwing a tantrum for who knows why. I won’t celebrate her birthday with her this year; I’ll go to the hospital with you first.” He then adjusted the air conditioning, gently covering Esme with a blanket. Esme lowered her voice, sounding aggrieved, “Nolan, she must have seen the news of you being with me and got upset.” “After all, it’s her birthday today. I should apologize… I don’t want you two to be unhappy because of me.” Declan’s fist clenched and then relaxed. After a long pause, he suppressed his response, “Hmm.” A flash of resentment passed over Esme’s face, but she quickly adjusted, forcing a smile and taking out her phone. After seeing a text from her assistant, a fierce look flashed in her eyes, and she dialed my number. She called many times, but no one answered. When the phone announced it was turned off, Declan coldly said, “Stop calling. If she wants to act out, let her. You don’t need to lower yourself.” With that, he urged the driver to speed up. I watched Declan calmly. Apart from a hint of irritation, there was no concern on his face. I should have realized long ago, Declan despises me because of Esme. Why would he care about me? Even if he’s in San Francisco, he won’t celebrate my birthday, not even with a simple greeting. Since Esme entered his world. I’ve been forced to endure his bias and targeting. He always said I was rude, making things difficult for Esme. Said I was petty, jealous of Esme’s success. What was once my music room became Esme’s sanctuary. Custom gifts meant for me bore Esme’s name. Even when I was bedridden, he only believed Esme’s words. Convinced I was scheming, feigning illness for sympathy. I always silently wished, hoping he’d return to how he once was. But I was wrong; because of Esme, his misunderstanding deepened, to the point he didn’t want to recognize me. I won’t get his apology anymore. I’m dead, and we’ll never meet in this life again. Chapter 3 Declan took Esme to the best private hospital. Even the hospital room was decorated to her liking. Because Esme is the person Declan feels most indebted to. In high school, everyone mocked me for being an orphan. And the one who led the bullying for three years was Esme. After the college entrance exams, I left San Francisco, thinking I’d endured the worst. But in just three years, I met Esme again; she had become Declan’s girlfriend. I tried to let go of the past, avoiding them. But Esme wouldn’t let me be, twisting the story to Declan, claiming I bullied her in high school for three years. Since then, Declan never showed me a kind face. He always said I had to pay for my actions. So he unilaterally cut off my financial support and even tried to strip me of my right to study abroad. In Declan’s eyes, I became a ruthless villain. While Esme was the rare treasure he cherished. He pitied Esme’s past, treating her better out of guilt, almost placing her on a pedestal. To the point where he stayed by Esme’s side, despite the dark circles under his eyes. Even though doctors repeatedly emphasized Esme just had a common cold. Esme was about to say something when the hospital room door was suddenly pushed open. It was Declan’s friend, Griffin, who was also an investor in Esme’s new drama. “Incredible, your buzz is higher than my new drama.” “Maybe I should ride on your social media attention; this drama would definitely explode.” “Mr. Nolan, giving up a nine-figure project for love, tsk tsk…” Declan gave him a few displeased looks, gesturing with his eyes for him to go to the hallway. “My feelings for Esme don’t need media hype to prove.” “Esme doesn’t need this kind of attention. If she wants, I’ll invest in her, not give her public pressure.” “But I want to ask, why give Esme so much work pressure?” Griffin looked at him incredulously, “For your sake, the film crew treats Esme like royalty. She volunteered for overtime.” “I was puzzled; she was fine during the day, but at midnight, she wasn’t.” Declan snorted, “Esme usually overexerts herself, won’t speak up even if she’s wronged.” “Surely your film crew’s work intensity is too high, it wore her out.” Griffin shrugged, teasingly, “Mr. Nolan is a deeply affectionate man. I’m almost envious of Esme.” “You don’t care for Cora as much as you do for Esme.” Seeing Declan’s face instantly darken, Griffin wisely stopped talking, hesitating for a long time before speaking. “Today is Cora’s birthday. I verified the audio at the scene; she was indeed at the hospital today.” After Declan watched the hospital surveillance video on Griffin’s phone, his eyes filled with anger. In the video, I looked extremely haggard, my sleeves stained with blood, eyes vacant, weakly leaning against the wall. Declan didn’t finish watching, turning off the video in frustration. “I just didn’t celebrate her birthday, and she’s using self-harm as a trick!” That’s not true! The video was maliciously edited! I didn’t self-harm. The bloodstains on my sleeves were from coughing up blood during an attack. I was anxious, but Declan couldn’t hear me. Griffin tried to persuade Declan, “No matter what, Cora is your sister. When Esme marries in, you’ll be a family; there’s no need for such tension.” In the video, I appeared utterly exhausted, with bloodstains on my sleeves, my eyes vacant, and leaning weakly against the wall. Declan didn’t even finish watching it before switching it off in frustration. “All because I didn’t celebrate her birthday with her, now she’s pulling a stunt like self-harm!” But that’s not true! The video was maliciously edited! I didn’t self-harm; the blood on my sleeves was from coughing up blood during an attack. I was frantic, but Declan couldn’t hear my side of the story. Griffin was still trying to reason with Declan, “No matter what, Cora is still your sister. Once Esme joins the family, we’ll all be together. There’s no need to make things so tense.” Declan watched the video of my pitiful appearance with a conflicted expression, his throat moving slightly. My heart ached indescribably. Even people who didn’t know me well showed concern, yet my own brother instinctively suspected me with malice. — Declan’s face remained emotionless. After Griffin hurriedly left, Declan paced back and forth in the hallway. He took out a small velvet jewelry box from his coat pocket, revealing a sapphire necklace. It turned out he had prepared a birthday gift for me. Once, Esme took the sapphire necklace that mom left for me. Declan scolded me, saying it was just a necklace and that my bullying had made Esme so depressed she nearly committed suicide. He said I owed her for life. Now, the necklace in his hand had a bigger and brighter gem than the one I originally had. But meaningful objects are unique and can’t be replaced. He repeatedly rubbed the gem, carefully putting it away afterward. Only then did his emotions fully settle. He went back to his room to grab his car keys, planning to find me at home. But just as he was about to leave, a sleepy Esme woke up. “Nolan, where are you going?” Tears shimmered in her eyes. “I’m scared being alone in the hospital. Could you stay with me?” Declan hugged her to comfort her, “Stay put with the IV drip. I’ll be back soon. I won’t leave you.” Esme clung to his sleeve, reluctant to let go, cautiously asking, “Is it because of Cora?” Declan nodded, “She’s the only person in this world with my blood. I can’t fail mom and dad’s wishes.” Esme lowered her head, feeling wronged, “It’s okay, I understand. I’ll wait for you to come back.” Declan still left, and as he closed the door, I distinctly saw Esme clenching her fists, resentment in her eyes. I followed Declan back to the empty house. Not seeing my shoes at the entrance, he hastily entered my room. It was tidied up, and even the sheet music he had written for me, which I cherished, was gone. Declan sat dejectedly at the piano, staring at the stickers we had placed on the keys together, lost in thought. Through the moonlight, I seemed to see Declan from years ago. Back then, he taught me to play the piano and wrote music for me. As long as he was there, I always wore a satisfied smile. After Esme appeared, I never played the piano again. Declan’s fingers brushed over the keys, looking at his dust-covered fingers, murmuring, “Cora… how did we end up like this?” In the moonlight, his figure seemed particularly lonely. He stood up, took one last look at my room, and left in a hurry, almost as if escaping. Growing up, Declan never apologized to me first. Even when he was wrong, he avoided and glossed over it. I used to think he was too proud, and as his sister, I shouldn’t hold it against him. Seeing him check my Instagram again, I laughed at how forgetful he was. He must have forgotten that he couldn’t receive my messages, not because I didn’t contact him, but because he blocked me. I sat in the corner of the sofa, calmly watching his panicked face. What if he knew I was dead? What if he knew Esme was the one who bullied me and switched my terminal illness medical records, indirectly causing my death? Would he still stubbornly believe he was right and avoid responsibility as he always did? Unfortunately, he no longer has the chance to apologize to me. Until dawn, a sudden ringtone startled Declan awake. I leaned closer to see that it was the cemetery salesperson. “Are you Cora’s brother?” The voice on the other end was uncertain. Declan frowned impatiently, “I am. What’s she up to now?” “I’m Cora’s representative. We need a family member’s signature for the cremation. Do you have time to come over?” Declan’s expression froze. He gripped his phone tightly, suppressing his anger, “Tell me the truth. How much did Cora pay you to play along?” Before the other side could respond, Declan hastily hung up. He took several deep breaths, “Cora is so afraid of dying. How could she bear to die? Yes! She must be pretending to be pitiful again to make me stay for her birthday!” He quickly grabbed his coat, “Esme is still waiting for me at the hospital. I have to go be with her…” “I won’t be fooled again.” I felt hopeless. Clearly, in his heart, Esme was the most important. But his panicked back betrayed him. Maybe, for the sake of blood relations, he would be moved. I’m a bit curious about the day the truth comes out.

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Our tenth attempt at a wedding, and for the tenth time, my girlfriend was whisked away by her childhood sweetheart. I stood alone on stage, a complete laughingstock. I swallowed my pride and tried to reach her, begging her to come back and finish the ceremony. But she wouldn’t even answer my calls! Her childhood sweetheart sent a smug photo of them together in bed, boasting, “I won!” My heart went completely cold. We’d held the wedding ten times, only for it to be postponed each time. The MC looked at me sympathetically, “Do you still want to go through with the wedding?” I forced a smile, “Yes! We must finish it!” I messaged the girl next door and received her assurance. I sighed in relief and turned to tell the MC to wait a little longer. This was my tenth wedding, and it couldn’t be ruined again. Cora arrived quickly, her commanding presence drawing everyone’s attention. She walked straight to the center stage, stood beside me, and smiled warmly. “Nolan, have you made up your mind?” I nodded. After all, marriage was just about pleasing the elders; the person didn’t matter. Besides, Grandma’s illness couldn’t wait any longer. Her health started rapidly declining half a year ago. Every time I visited, she’d express her wish to see me married before she passed. As the person closest to me, Grandma’s only wish was for me to find someone trustworthy. So after her passing, I’d have someone to rely on and wouldn’t be bullied. Watching Grandma grow thinner each day, I couldn’t bear to see her leave with regrets, so I took marriage seriously. Adeline had promised we’d get married. But after ten weddings, she was absent every time. She made me the laughingstock of the entire Seaside City over and over. And all her excuses were because of her childhood sweetheart, Jasper. Jasper was fine on regular days, but on my wedding days, he suddenly had issues. Either he was in a bad mood, couldn’t handle stress due to depression, or needed company after watching a scary movie. The most absurd time was when he suddenly felt like taking wedding photos while shopping and called Adeline to be his partner. I couldn’t express any dissatisfaction with these ridiculous reasons. If I messaged her, I’d get scolded. “Nolan, can you be more understanding? Jasper is my buddy, he needs me now, and the wedding can happen any day, right? Don’t be so petty, okay?” But after being abandoned and betrayed ten times, my patience finally ran out. This time, I wouldn’t wait around. After letting go completely, I realized my heart didn’t hurt as much anymore. Maybe I’d become numb. Or perhaps Grandma’s words gave me strength. “Our dear Nolan is so good, Grandma hopes that after she leaves, you’ll find someone who loves you and won’t let you suffer.” Grandma’s aged face appeared in my mind, giving me firm confidence. I can’t disappoint the people who love me. So I took Cora’s hand, and with her in her wedding dress, we walked down the aisle. I had to be in my best state for the wedding so Grandma would feel at ease when she saw the video. When we exchanged rings, my phone chimed; it was Adeline. She hadn’t realized her mistake at all, still using a casual tone. [Nolan, behave yourself, Jasper has a stomachache today, I really can’t leave, it doesn’t matter when the wedding is held, I’ll make it up to you later.] Seeing such words again, my heart still ached. I clenched my phone. Cora noticed and raised an eyebrow slightly. “Still want the ring?” I looked up, eyes firm, “Yes!” After completing all the procedures, I was exhausted. Before leaving, Cora looked at me with a particularly serious expression. “Nolan, I’ll give you two days to regret it, after two days we’ll get our marriage certificate, I hope you’ve thought it through.” These words gave me dignity, but I had already decided to end things with Adeline. “Don’t worry, I won’t regret it!” After Cora left, I received a message from Adeline. [Nolan, you have ten minutes to buy painkillers and deliver them, don’t make me angry.] Below was the address of a well-known romantic hotel in Seaside City. Immediately, my phone chimed again. It was a photo of two people lying in bed. The sender was Jasper. And my girlfriend was one of the protagonists. [I won again!] More than the pain of betrayal and abandonment, I felt disgusted. On my wedding day, my bride was with another man in a romantic hotel. I unconsciously clenched my hands until my palms bled. Chapter Two In the end, I still went to the hotel. This relationship had already come to a full stop for me. I didn’t want any more entanglement with Adeline. So I planned to break up with Adeline face-to-face and ask for my house key back. After all, the place she was living in was a house I bought outright! When I arrived at the hotel, Adeline saw I was empty-handed. She immediately lost her temper. “Nolan, what’s wrong with you? Where are the painkillers I asked for?” Jasper sat at the corner of the bed, looking pitiful. “Cora, don’t be mad, after all, Nolan has been preparing for the wedding all day, he might just be too tired.” He knew very well that he had called away my bride, yet he still spoke so nonchalantly. Being mocked to my face, my heart felt like it had been pierced a thousand times. But it still couldn’t stop the sharp pain. My fingers slowly tightened, almost drawing blood. Disappointment reached a point where I no longer felt the urge to be angry. The romantic hotel room was cramped and ambiguous, making me feel suffocated. My relationship with Adeline started in college. Initially, it was her intense and passionate pursuit that gradually made me fall for her. Once we were together, she remembered every holiday better than I did, always having gifts and surprises. Even when I was occasionally moody, she would take all the blame and patiently comfort me. Brothers and friends often marveled at how lucky I was to have such a good girlfriend. I thought the same, which is why I wanted to get married right after graduation. But everything changed the day Adeline’s childhood sweetheart, Jasper, returned from abroad. From then on, Adeline’s heart completely leaned towards someone else. Between me and Jasper, I was always the one left behind. Adeline affectionately ruffled Jasper’s hair. “Oh, you really are considerate.” Then she approached me, frowning in displeasure. “Why didn’t you reply to my messages?” My repeated concessions only made Adeline push further and further. Clearly, she was the one who abandoned the wedding and me, yet she opened with accusations. I tried to calm down and spoke coldly. “I forgot.” Adeline was stunned, seemingly shocked by my tone. I coldly lifted my eyes to look at Adeline. “Adeline, today you broke your promise again.” Hearing this, her eyes flashed with guilt, but she angrily defended herself. “I didn’t do it on purpose, Jasper wasn’t feeling well, I can’t just ignore him, right?” “We can hold the wedding another day, can’t we? Nolan, stop being unreasonable, be more sensible, okay?” Clearly, she was the one in the wrong, yet she was trying to turn the tables. I had no interest in further entanglement, suppressing my disgust as I spoke coldly. “But I don’t want to wait for you anymore, let’s break up!” With that, I turned and walked away decisively. “Nolan, what the hell did you just say?!” Adeline screamed and immediately chased after me. At this moment, behind me, Jasper let out an “Oh no.” Then came the sound of something shattering, unexpectedly loud. I stopped in confusion and turned to look, and in the next second, my eyes widened in shock. The jade pendant, shattered into pieces on the ground, was the one Grandma had painstakingly prayed for to keep me safe! I was completely stunned, a wave of anger nearly erupted from me. Realizing what had happened, I forcefully pushed Adeline aside and rushed forward to carefully pick up the pieces of the jade pendant. “Why is my jade pendant with you!?” I stared fiercely at Jasper, loudly questioning. Adeline walked over, muttering in dissatisfaction. “Nolan, why are you overreacting? You’re going to scare Jasper.” I couldn’t believe it as I met Adeline’s gaze. She knew how important this jade pendant was to me, yet she could still speak so nonchalantly. All at once, a sense of powerlessness crept over my heart. The soft flesh of my palm was gouged open, bloody and mangled. Indeed, when facing Jasper, I always had to back down. But this time, it involved Grandma, and I was done holding back. I raised my hand and gave Adeline a hard slap. “If you’re blind, go to the hospital for treatment!” “He took the jade pendant Grandma gave me without my consent, and broke it, what right do you have to forgive him for me?” The room fell silent for a moment. I had never resorted to violence before, no matter how angry I was. Now it was Adeline’s turn to be dumbfounded. “You dare hit me? Nolan, I’m your girlfriend, and you dare lay a hand on me?!” She rushed forward and grabbed my neck, squeezing so hard I could barely breathe. She glared at me, eyes filled with malice and hatred, as if looking at an enemy. I couldn’t help but think, when did the person who once looked at me with love change? I remembered when we weren’t together yet, I had posted a photo of a cut less than two millimeters on my finger on social media. Adeline was waiting outside my dorm at four in the morning just to bring me medicine. Her eyes were bright and full of concern. It was at that moment, touched by her sincerity, that I agreed to her pursuit.

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— At the centennial banquet of Perry Corporation, I accidentally wore a bracelet belonging to Declan Perry’s ex-wife. Seven-year-old Asher Perry pushed me down the stairs in front of everyone and splashed champagne all over me. He stood above me on the steps, his gaze cold and disdainful, just like his father’s. “Who do you think you are, wearing my mom’s bracelet?” “Don’t think you can replace her by trying to win me over! When I grow up, I’ll make sure you get kicked out of the Perry Family!” The evening breeze blew softly, extinguishing the last warmth in my heart. Looking at this child I had raised since birth, I suddenly understood. Awkwardly, I got up, meeting his gaze with calmness. “You don’t have to wait until you grow up. I’ll leave tomorrow.” I limped up the stairs, ignoring the curious stares, intending to change my clothes. But Asher suddenly charged at me, raising his hand to slap me. Instinctively, I blocked him, my wrist hitting the railing. The bracelet shattered with a sharp sound. “This was my mom’s favorite bracelet! How dare you break it, you wicked woman!” Asher’s eyes turned red with anger and hatred. I remained silent for a long moment before sighing softly. “Asher Perry, you’re lying.” This bracelet was a gift from Grandmother for my wedding. He froze for a moment but quickly resumed his arrogant demeanor. “So what? If I say you can’t wear it, then you won’t!” He sneered and ran off. I didn’t chase after him to explain as I usually would. When the banquet ended and I returned to the Perry Family’s old house, the housekeeper looked like she wanted to say something but held back. I rushed to the bedroom and from afar could smell the strong scent of blood. Opening the door, I saw my little dog lying in a pool of blood on the bed, and my photos were slashed to pieces on the floor. Seeing my face full of sorrow, Asher burst into laughter. “This is your punishment for offending me!” He stomped on my photos, shaking his head triumphantly. “Seeing you so upset makes me really happy!” He stuck his tongue out at me and ran off, laughing. I couldn’t understand why such a young child would harbor so much hatred against me. After Grandmother passed away, besides the bracelet she left me, only this little dog kept me company. It stayed by my side through countless sleepless nights and helped me raise Asher from a crying baby to a young boy. But that night, I lost everything. When Declan Perry returned, I was still sitting on the floor in a daze. The sound of leather shoes approaching made me look up. He looked down at me, his eyes filled with the same disdain and indifference as Asher’s. He didn’t even glance at the chaos in the room but frowned and reprimanded me in a deep voice. “Nora Taylor, today was your fault.” Seeing that I didn’t get up or respond, he grew impatient. “Asher is only seven years old; he’s still a child. Why are you arguing with him?” That simple word “child” seemed to excuse everything. But what about my little dog? How innocent it was. Seeing my unpleasant expression, he softened his tone for once. “In a few days, I’ll have the secretary get you another one.” Then he waved dismissively, and the housekeeper put my little dog into a trash bag. Soon, all traces of blood and broken glass were cleaned up, as if my little dog had never existed. Just like me, who had meticulously cared for him and Asher for seven years, it was as if nothing had ever happened. After washing up, Declan sat at the head of the bed and handed me the hairdryer, signaling me to dry his hair. Instinctively, I searched for an outlet but was unexpectedly pulled into his embrace. “In three days, accompany me to the Perry Family’s new perfume launch.” Every Perry Family perfume is crafted by Declan in memory of his sister. So every year, he uses our unmarried status as an excuse to bar me from attending, even if the whole internet mocks me as his mistress. He doesn’t care. His damp hair soaked my clothes, chilling me to the core. I’ve been married to Declan Perry for seven years and have been pregnant with his child. But when he found out, his first reaction wasn’t joy; he sought the best doctor to remove my fallopian tubes. “I’ll only have Summer Taylor as my wife in this lifetime, and only one child.” “Your responsibility is to raise Asher, so don’t think about anything else.” Declan’s usual tactic was to give a slap and then a sweet treat. But for the first time, I refused him when I should have been overjoyed. “Mr. Perry, the seven-year agreement is up. I should leave tomorrow.” Chapter

Declan’s hand around my waist froze, his gaze cold. “How long are you going to keep this up?” “Asher is just a child! Besides, you’re his mom. Isn’t it your fault for not educating him well? I haven’t even blamed you, yet you’re causing a scene!” Mom? I looked at him indifferently. When did Declan and his son ever consider me a wife and mom? Back then, Declan Perry, the Prince of the Beijing Circle, fell in love with my sister at first sight and insisted on marrying her. But the elders of the Perry Family disagreed, so he eloped abroad with my sister in a fit of anger. The two of them lived in blissful happiness. But since Perry Corporation only had one heir, Declan had to return to inherit the family business. On their way back home, they got into a car accident. My pregnant sister died from hemorrhaging during labor, leaving only the premature son. The family couldn’t afford to lose Declan, their cash cow, so I was asked to take care of my little nephew in the Perry Family. But Declan was unwilling to marry me. Even though I took on the title of Mrs. Perry and played the role of Asher’s mom for seven years, we never registered our marriage. The world called me his mistress, and it wasn’t without reason. I pursed my lips. “Mr. Perry, you promised that when Asher reached school age, you’d let me go.” “After all, I’m not really your wife. Staying here in the Perry Family isn’t good for your reputation.” Hearing my words, Declan’s cold expression softened a bit. The way he looked at me was almost gentle. “If you attend the launch event with me, who would dare gossip?” “As for the rest, it’s not that I won’t…” “No need.” I interrupted his unfinished words. In the first half of my life, I was cursed as an unwanted child. I don’t want to spend the latter half being called a mistress. “Asher is ready for school. I’ve already found him an international school. I’m really not cut out for raising kids.” “As for everything at the Perry Family’s old house, the housekeeper can handle it without me.” Declan pinched my waist and threw me onto the bed. He looked down at me, all gentleness gone, his voice as cold as ice. “Nora Taylor, who do you think you are!” “This Perry Family isn’t a place you can come and go as you please!” “You’re attending the launch with me in three days. You have no choice.” With a bang, the door slammed shut, shaking the walls. The painting on the wall fell and shattered into pieces. Looking at the fragments on the floor, I bit my lip and couldn’t help but cry. That painting was done by Declan for me. But the person in the painting wasn’t me; it was my sister. The day before I went to the Perry Family to take care of Asher, Mrs. Taylor warned me. “If it weren’t for my daughter’s misfortune and you looking like her, you shameless woman wouldn’t stand a chance!” “When you get to the Perry Family, you’d better behave and take good care of my grandson, or don’t blame me for being harsh!” She wasn’t wrong. I’ve been by Declan’s side for seven years. If it weren’t for my resemblance to my sister, he wouldn’t have painted me during his free time. Those were the rare moments of warmth I could remember. From childhood to now, only when Declan painted me did I feel a hint of warmth. But seven years made me realize it was all fake. The door was kicked open. Asher Perry stormed in angrily, holding the custom gown Declan had prepared for me. His eyes were red as he glared at me with hatred. “You wicked woman, you really want to replace my mom!” “Dream on about attending the launch!” He cursed as he cut the gown into shreds with scissors. Only when the gown was completely ruined did he feel pleased and stomped on it several times. Worried he might hurt himself with the scissors, I tried to snatch them from him but was met with a swipe that left a long cut on my arm, soaking my clothes with blood. His eyes showed panic, but he still defiantly said, “As long as you’re leeching off my family, I won’t let you have peace!” Holding my bleeding arm, I felt utterly defeated. Seven years of close care only brought resentment and neglect from this father and son. Chapter

“Don’t hurt yourself. Get some rest.” I reminded him one last time, turning to close the door. I packed my things but couldn’t leave because of Mrs. Taylor’s arrival. Dressed head to toe in luxury, she was adorned with jewelry. Seeing the suitcase in my hand, she softened her tone for the first time. “Nora, after all, Asher is your nephew. Are you really going to let him be all alone?” “Besides, staying in the Perry Family is for our good too! If Declan marries and has more children, we might end up empty-handed!” It all boiled down to not wanting to lose the villa and BMW Declan provided, afraid of losing the luxury and wealth. With a calm smile, the voices of two people approaching interrupted what I was about to say. “Aunt Luna, I’ve missed you!” Asher Perry clung to Luna Foster’s hand, acting all cutesy. Luna Foster smiled as she picked him up, affectionately rubbing her cheek against his. “Really? Then why didn’t you come find me?” “Anyway, staying with the Perry Family is for our own benefit! Otherwise, if Declan Perry marries and has children in the future, we might end up with nothing!” At the core, it’s all about clinging to the villa and BMW that Declan Perry provided, fearing the loss of such luxuries. I managed a faint smile, but my thoughts were interrupted by the cheerful voices of two people approaching. “Aunt Luna, I’ve missed you!” exclaimed Asher Perry, holding onto Luna Foster’s hand and acting playfully. Luna Foster chuckled as she picked him up, affectionately rubbing her cheek against his. “Really? Then why haven’t you come to see me?” she teased. Asher Perry rolled his eyes at me before hugging Luna Foster’s neck. “If I keep visiting you, Dad will get upset!” “Besides, if I go to you, who’s going to help me deal with the bad woman? I embarrassed her yesterday!” Watching Asher Perry’s triumphant grin made my heart ache. When he was three, he had a persistent high fever, and I stayed with him in the hospital room for three sleepless nights. Later, I tried to make him some porridge but fainted in the kitchen. Sparks ignited the curtains, nearly engulfing me in flames. Thankfully, he was worried about me and came looking for me. Seeing the fire in the kitchen, he cried and drew the attention of the security guards. Afterwards, he clung to my neck, sobbing, “Auntie, I can’t be without you!” Who could have known then? The nephew who once cried and called me Auntie would later wound me deeply with his actions. This seemingly gentle woman greeted me with a smile, but her words were full of provocation. “Miss Taylor, please don’t be upset; Asher is still young.” It’s absurd. The child I’ve cared for so attentively listens to others without question. Once they left, I turned to Mrs. Taylor. “You see, Asher isn’t short of people to look after him.” Luna Foster was originally just a waitress, but with a face that resembles my sister’s by seventy percent, she easily won over both father and son. Declan Perry handed her an entire perfume production line, holding her hand tightly both in public and private, as if they were family. Mrs. Taylor glared at me coldly. “Are you really planning to leave?” I replied firmly, “I don’t have many more seven-year periods to waste…” Before I could finish, she slapped me. “In the end, you’re just the daughter of a shameless mistress, a bastard through and through!” “If it weren’t for me pitying you and raising you, you’d have died out there already!” Back then, my father pretended to be a wealthy bachelor, deceiving my mother who had just arrived from the countryside. After my mom got pregnant with me, she found out he was already married. Mrs. Taylor cornered her at school, humiliating her, making it known to the world that she was a mistress seducing a married man. Heartbroken, she gave birth to me in a rented room and then jumped to her death. If I weren’t indeed the Taylor family’s daughter, they would have discarded me, which would have been illegal. What chance did I have? When the second slap was about to fall, I blocked Mrs. Taylor’s hand. “For thirty years, I’ve given everything to the Taylor family.” “I owe you nothing.” I endured endless humiliation and abuse at the Taylor family, being beaten and scolded whenever Mrs. Taylor was unhappy. I grew up without ever attending a day of school until I was eighteen. For the past seven years at the Perry Family, I was merely an outlet for Declan Perry. I devoted myself to taking care of Asher Perry, giving him everything I could. But what did I get in return? My grandmother’s jade bracelet was smashed, my puppy died, and Declan Perry cut off my fallopian tubes, ending my chance of motherhood. I’ve done my utmost and owe nothing to anyone. The only one I’m sorry to is myself. Mrs. Taylor stormed off in anger. I turned around, meeting Declan Perry’s complex gaze. Chapter

He beckoned me over as if he were calling a disobedient dog. I remained still. Declan Perry’s face immediately showed impatience. “Nora Taylor, you’re smart. You should realize that leaving the Perry Family means you have nowhere to go.” “I’ve asked the secretary to buy you a dog with purer bloodlines and a more expensive bracelet.” “If you find Asher hard to manage, Luna can help you; she’ll start living with you at the Perry Family from today.” Declan Perry watched me, seemingly waiting for me to accept joyfully, gratefully comply, and then take care of him and his son with Luna Foster. But I didn’t want that anymore. “You decide, it has nothing to do with me anymore.” Luna Foster stepped out from behind Declan Perry. “I know Miss Taylor doesn’t welcome me, so I should leave.” “After all, someone like me without a status doesn’t deserve to take care of Asher.” She pretended to cry, walking towards the door, but was stopped by Declan Perry after just a few steps. “Status is just a matter of my decision. If you can get pregnant, I’ll make you the real Mrs. Perry.” After casting me a glance, he picked Luna Foster up in his arms. The villa door was kicked shut by him, and the maids and butler scurried away. Asher Perry looked at me smugly. “Aunt Luna is kind and gentle; only she deserves to be my mom.” Looking at this child I raised from a young age, I was shocked. “Is that really what you think?” “Yes! You evil woman, don’t think I don’t know. It was you who seduced my dad, causing my mom’s death from difficult childbirth!” “Sooner or later, I’ll avenge my mom!” I looked at the amulet on his chest and sighed. Asher Perry was a premature baby, weak and often sick. To ensure his healthy growth, I personally took care of his every need. I even gave him the amulet my mom left me. Seven years of countless days and nights of care and companionship couldn’t compare to a few words from outsiders. I reached for the amulet around Asher Perry’s neck. He instinctively raised his hand to block, “If you dare hit me, I’ll have Dad kick you out!” But I only took off the amulet from his neck. “Asher Perry, you’re already seven. Even if you don’t understand some things now, you will in the future.” “I didn’t raise you well; someone better will take care of you. As for us, we probably won’t see each other again in this lifetime.” With Asher Perry looking at me in confusion, I headed to the airport with my luggage. The Perry Family’s old residence quickly faded, disappearing from my sight. I knew that after I left, Declan Perry would bring in someone new to care for Asher Perry. But none of that mattered to me anymore. Having wasted thirty years, it’s time I lived for myself. Just as I was about to board the plane, a large hand reached from behind, snatching the ticket from my hand. The cold, indifferent voice made me shudder. “Nora Taylor, where do you think you’re going?” I’m committed to ensuring that the content maintains its original meaning while adapting it to a more natural English expression that is easier to understand. Throughout this process, we will keep the original formatting unchanged.

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BFF got pregnant before marriage, so I kindly let her stay at my house. Then I discovered the baby she was carrying belonged to my husband, who is a mama’s boy. My mother-in-law, who favors sons, belittled me, claiming I was useless compared to my BFF, and even likened me to something worse than a female dog. The day after I refused to divorce, the Ice Age Apocalypse struck. They threw me out, watching as I froze to death, becoming an ice sculpture. But fate gave me another chance and granted me a wish. “I just wish my BFF a prosperous pregnancy with six children.” When I learned my BFF Lydia was pregnant with six children, I realized I had been reborn, and Lydia’s wish had come true. “Nora, thank you for letting me stay at your house for free and accompanying me to my check-ups.” At this moment, Lydia hadn’t revealed her true nature and looked genuinely grateful. I suppressed my disgust and hatred, forcing a natural smile. “We’re like sisters; your concerns are mine.” Back home, my mother-in-law and husband Nolan were thrilled to hear Lydia was expecting six children. Mother-in-law clapped her hands joyfully: “Lydia is incredible, the more children, the better! It’s wonderful for the family line!” Then she cast a disdainful glance at me. “Unlike some people who have been married for two years without a sign of pregnancy, freeloading off our family, not even as good as a dog that can have puppies!” Nolan, the mama’s boy, scoffed, “Why are you just standing there? Mom gets annoyed seeing you. If you can’t have kids, at least make yourself useful in the kitchen!” I swallowed my anger, pleading as I did in my past life. “I’d like my BFF to stay in the empty house next door, is that okay, Mom?” Mother-in-law feigned reluctance but agreed. “Alright then, there’s an old saying that taking care of a pregnant woman can help you conceive. You go and look after Lydia and catch some of her good fortune!”

In my past life, my unmarried BFF cried to me about being abandoned and contemplated suicide. Feeling sorry for her, I decided to help by letting her stay next door to offer support. I was puzzled by my mother-in-law’s and my mama’s boy husband’s unusual excitement but didn’t think much of it. Until I saw Nolan, Lydia, and my mother-in-law had formed a group chat named One Big Happy Family. That’s when I realized that the father of the child in my BFF’s belly was Nolan. They had been together behind my back for over half a year. I confronted the three of them. My mother-in-law, who preferred sons, pulled my hair and cursed, “Useless hen! You can’t give birth and still have the nerve to ask? Do you want the Wang family line to end with you, you disgrace?” I turned to Nolan for help, but he helped his mom pin me to the ground. “My mom said I need a woman to give me kids. If you can’t, I’ll just have your BFF do it. Show some respect to my mom; it wasn’t easy raising me.” I got injured and was bedridden. I planned to call the police, but the extreme snowstorm delayed their arrival. The next day, the Ice Age Apocalypse struck. The whole community started heating early, roads were covered in snow, and TV stations announced that the extreme weather would last a long time. Residents were warned to stay inside and conserve food and water. My mother-in-law and Nolan conspired. “One more person means one more mouth to feed, can’t let my grandson suffer, Nora is useless, just kick her out to fend for herself.” “Mom, I’ll do whatever you say!” Outside was minus thirty degrees; going out meant certain death. No matter how I begged Nolan, he just repeated, “My mom said you being alive just means one more mouth to feed!” In less than ten minutes, I lost body heat, froze to death, turning into an ice sculpture. But fate had other plans. I was reborn. And granted a wish. My wish was for BFF Lydia to have a fruitful pregnancy with six kids. Just wait, my revenge has only begun.

I directly let Lydia move into the Wang house instead of next door. My mother-in-law was indeed pleased. Affectionately holding Lydia’s hand. “Oh my, with those childbearing hips, you’re bound to have sons! If all six are boys, I’ll be over the moon every day!” I showed no suspicion, pretending to know nothing every day. Whatever BFF wanted to eat, I’d make it, acting like a fool eager to be the child’s godmother. No matter how Lydia and Nolan flirted in private. Every time they slept, I’d get up to select a shelter. Calculating, the Ice Age Apocalypse was just half a month away. Looking at the million-dollar dowry my father left me, I decided to use it to build a comfortable, warm shelter. First, I chose the apocalypse survival location in the old family bunker. That bunker, now abandoned, once saved the whole village. Built by a famous returning architect at the time. I just needed to spend money on upgrades to turn it into an upgraded bunker. I contacted my cousin still in the village to help with this. Cousin was puzzled, “You’re living well in the city, why think of the village bunker, that place is quite dilapidated now.” Seeing I didn’t want to reveal much, Cousin didn’t press, just added with concern. “If things aren’t good in the city, coming back to the village is fine too. If you’re wronged, tell your cousin.” My eyes welled up. In the past, my mother-in-law often ridiculed me for having rural relatives. Mocking me as a wild chicken trying to perch high. But my family wasn’t poor; my dad was the first in the village to attend a prestigious university, getting a decent job after graduation, where he met my mom. Unfortunately, a car accident took them away. Growing up, I misjudged people, failing to see Nolan’s mama’s boy nature. After marriage, my mother-in-law often checked my phone, fearing I’d use family money to aid my family. Little did she know, our village had long prospered. Conditions were quite good. “Where are you sneaking off to make calls, is it some poor relative looking to leech off us?” Mother-in-law stood behind me, face dark. Nolan grumbled, “Mom said no using our money for poor relatives, do you even care about my mom!” I lowered myself, smiling apologetically. “No, I was asking another family’s babysitter about making soup for Lydia.” They half-believed, and the matter passed. I sneered inside. The Wang family might have some money, but it’s all from rental income. That’s why Lydia got involved with Nolan. Willing to bear his kids. But soon, their little money would be worthless. In the Ice Age Apocalypse, only food and water were precious. Money would just be worthless paper. I’ll never forget past grievances. I’ll slowly plot, letting these three receive what’s due. By then, I’ll be in the upgraded bunker, living well. As for them, they’ll face a dog-eat-dog world!

Cousin was exceptionally attentive to my matters. In just ten days, he finished renovating the bunker. Next was equipping the bunker. The Ice Age Apocalypse will cause power outages in most areas. I bought three generators: a diesel generator, portable, providing stable power output, needing regular maintenance and fuel replacement. A solar generator, converting sunlight to electricity, emitting no harmful gases, not consuming diesel, but has obvious drawbacks, heavily weather-dependent, unusable at night. A pedaling generator, only needing manpower, but its power output is small. So, the primary one is the diesel generator. I purchased a large amount of diesel, ensuring three months’ supply, with the bunker being ideal for diesel storage. With power sorted, next was food and water. I first bought essential appliances, like a frying pan and rice cooker, minimizing electric product purchases to prevent excessive consumption. I prepared a hundred pounds of rice, flour, and oil, and bought hundreds of boxes of instant noodles of various flavors. As for water, I decided to buy a purifier. In the apocalyptic cold, outside is a snowy world, water isn’t lacking. Firstly, pure water bottles take up too much space, and secondly, saved space can create a vegetable hydroponic area. Self-sufficiency, no need for a fridge, saving space and power. I bought seeds for cabbage, spinach, cilantro, tomatoes, and bok choy. For meat, I could only buy lots of military rations, enough for three months. Other than that, just some snacks I like and daily necessities. Having solved the food problem, there’s still clothing. I purchased down jackets and snow boots worth thousands, advertised as suitable even for Antarctica. Next, medicine. Especially vitamin tablets. In apocalyptic times, lacking fruit for long periods causes vitamin deficiency, leading to scurvy. Without timely treatment, one could die from fever, swelling, and paralysis. Living alone in the bunker, I mustn’t fall ill. After completing all this, the weather grew colder. Mother-in-law often nagged in my ear. “Always running out, who’s going to care for your BFF with her big belly, are you expecting this old woman to do it?” I couldn’t help but talk back, quietly making meals for the three. BFF lounged on the sofa watching TV, more like the hostess than me. “I want some fruit, make me a nice fruit platter, it’ll cheer me up if it looks good.” My gaze turned cold. “The apples on the table are washed, you can eat them directly.” Lydia glanced at Nolan, seemingly wanting to reveal the secret. The weather had turned much colder by the time all this was over. My mother-in-law would often nag at me. “You’re always out and about. Who’s going to look after your pregnant friend? Surely you don’t expect me, an old woman, to do it!” I couldn’t help but retort, all the while quietly preparing food for the three of them. My friend was lounging on the couch watching TV, looking more like the lady of the house than me. “I feel like having some fruit. Make me a nice-looking fruit platter. I’ll only feel good if it looks good.” I gave her a frosty look. “The apples on the table are already washed. You can eat them as they are.” Lydia glanced at Nolan, as if she was eager to spill a secret. Last night, I secretly checked Nolan’s phone and saw the advice he had given her. My mom said not to tell her about us just yet. Just treat her like a free maid. If she refuses to do chores, make her feel guilty. Lydia immediately put on a sorrowful face. “Nora, you were the one who invited me to stay at your place. Are you annoyed with me now? It’s normal for a pregnant woman to have cravings.” At this, my mother-in-law spoke up. “Exactly, you were the one who said Lydia could stay with us. My son and I, the real hosts, have no issue with it. So why do you?” Ha, what I had originally suggested was for her to stay next door. It was your idea for her to move in. If I had known the child Lydia is carrying was Nolan’s, I wouldn’t have cared about her well-being at all. I smiled. “Alright, just hold on a moment. I’ll make the fruit platter now.” It looks like the text you wanted to provide is missing. Could you please share the text you’d like translated?

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Upon discovering that the auction of his wife’s “contractual rights” had become public, my husband, the CEO, was finally in a panic. He asked his friend, “Who won Adeline in the auction? Why hasn’t she returned after a month?” His friend hesitated, “It was your sister-in-law’s beloved who won her. Rumor has it they went to a hotel the night of the auction and haven’t come out for seven days and nights.” My husband’s face turned pale as he finally grasped the absurdity of what he had done to me. Just because his first love couldn’t stand my scent, for three years of marriage, if I got within three meters of him, he would throw me into a disinfectant pool and make me copy “The Women’s Commandments” as punishment. Today, when I noticed something unusual about his fragrance, I couldn’t resist stepping closer to sniff him. He yelled that I was obsessed with men, yet, for the first time, he didn’t order me to be thrown into the disinfectant pool. I thought his germaphobia was finally improving. But the next day, my “contractual rights” became the headline item at City A’s largest auction. Whoever bid the highest could replace him as my husband and spend nights in the bridal chamber with me. Teaser: To get my germaphobic husband to accept me, I learned nearly a hundred techniques from the Red Light District. Yet, in three years of marriage, I have been thrown into the disinfectant pool countless times for accidentally crossing within three meters of him, punished to copy “The Women’s Commandments.” Yesterday, I noticed a sweet perfume on him and took two steps closer to ask about its source. He yelled that I was obsessed with men but didn’t order me to be thrown into the disinfectant pool. I thought his germaphobia was finally improving. However, the next day, my “contractual rights” became the headline item at City A’s largest auction. The highest bidder could exercise any rights over me for a month.

My husband Jasper Reed’s friend was excitedly calculating the odds of winning the rights over him, tossing a card with my photo on the table. “A pair of aces, anyone interested?” Jasper Reed looked indifferent, continuously spraying perfume around. “No way. Just thinking about Adeline’s stench polluting Phoebe Clark’s air makes me sick!” “Phoebe has been studying abroad for so long. You’ve waited patiently for her return, only for Adeline to taint it. She should be taught a lesson.” Jasper Reed sneered, “Teach her? That’s a favor! I’ve never touched her. She probably can’t wait to be auctioned off and become a ‘real woman!’” “I heard Phoebe hates Adeline’s scent so much she gags at it, so Jasper has to disinfect himself every day.” Everyone burst into mocking laughter. Someone then snatched the card, grinning lewdly, “Hey! This card’s got a nice look. I’ll take it home for comfort.” Their words were full of ridicule. My face lost all color, and I staggered. Their words felt like hammers pounding my chest, leaving me breathless. Whenever I accidentally crossed the three-meter line, Jasper Reed would quickly dodge away. I always thought I was the problem, disinfecting myself with alcohol repeatedly. Because of this, my skin barrier was completely destroyed. Even slightly hot water would make my skin swell quickly. Jasper Reed even custom-ordered two single beds for our bedroom to avoid any contact with me. Driven to an emotional breakdown, I demanded an explanation. He coldly threw me a diagnosis. “I have severe germaphobia. You can’t touch me anymore.” I thought he would eventually heal. Now I know it was just a lie to stay faithful to another woman. My heart ached with bitterness. Jasper Reed and I were childhood sweethearts, engaged since we were young. But he only had eyes for Phoebe Clark. If it weren’t for his mother being diagnosed with cancer, whose only wish was for us to fulfill our engagement, we wouldn’t be together. However, Jasper Reed’s mother gave me a promise the night before our wedding: “Addie, if Jasper ever wrongs you, you can end this marriage anytime.” Thinking of this, I sent Jasper Reed’s mother a text: “Mom, the auction in three days is proof of Jasper Reed’s betrayal. I don’t want this marriage anymore.”

It was dark when I finally got home. For the first time, Jasper Reed wasn’t furious. Instead, he looked at me with interest. But the woman’s hair tie on the coffee table and the sexy ladies’ underwear on the chair clearly indicated what had happened. “What? You don’t want me to touch you?” Jasper Reed blocked my path, his breath hitting my neck as he spoke. Thinking about him putting my “contractual rights” on the auction, I felt an unexpected calm. “It’s late. Let’s rest.” I turned towards the bedroom, but Jasper Reed pulled me back. He pinned me to the sofa, eyes full of anger. “What are you pretending for? Haven’t you always wanted something to happen between us?” As he spoke, he roughly stripped me of all my clothes. I stood naked before him. He turned his head aside and shoved me into the bedroom. “Wait here obediently. I’ll be in soon. If you can’t wait, you can handle it yourself first.” Jasper Reed locked the door. Terrified, I pounded on the door, unable to open it. Feeling the chill, I frantically searched for clothes. But I found nothing, not even bed sheets or curtains. As I was about to give up, a blinding reflection hit my face. I realized the windows of the opposite building were filled with binoculars. “My God! That’s Adeline? Her body is perfect!” “Good thing I’m Jasper’s bro. I get a sneak peek!” “With that face and body, I must spend big at this auction!” I froze. Those disgusting gazes were like knives stabbing into my heart. Fear consumed me. I ran to the door, pounding on it frantically. “Jasper Reed! Please let me out! There are people outside, a lot of them!” My pleas received no response. The silence outside was terrifying. The excitement of the gazes grew more intense. I could only crawl under the bed, curling up to protect myself. Until I was on the brink of collapse, Jasper Reed finally opened the door. “Enough! Stop pretending to be a saint!” Jasper Reed sneered, tossing me a towel. I quickly wrapped the towel around myself. Jasper Reed’s phone suddenly buzzed. He answered: “Jasper, that video went viral! Several creepy old men are starting bids at millions! Adeline’s going to enjoy this!” Jasper Reed quickly ended the call, looking at me guiltily. I suddenly realized the entire bedroom was equipped with high-definition surveillance. My naked image had been shared with every wealthy man participating in the auction. My blood froze, and I struggled to breathe. “Jasper Reed! How could you do this to me!” “Come on! Is it really that big of a deal?” Jasper Reed shrugged dismissively, calling for the maid to bring a long dress. “How about this? I’ll take you to an auction tonight as an apology!” At this, my whole body trembled. “No! I’m not going!” I instinctively refused. Jasper Reed’s face darkened ominously. “Have I been too lenient? Do you dare question my decision?” “Phoebe even asked me to buy you luxury goods women love. You’re not even worthy!” He glanced at my red hands. “Look at you, you’re supposed to be a socialite, but even the servants are better maintained than you!” My chest tightened with bitterness. Over the years, Jasper Reed’s obsessive demands forced me to hand-wash all his belongings. Yet now, he saw me as less than a servant. Seeing me silent, Jasper Reed grabbed my neck, dragging me into the disinfectant pool. After disinfecting, he wrapped me tightly in a towel, disgust evident in his eyes. I was forcibly dressed up and taken to the banquet hall hosting the auction.

As soon as I entered, Phoebe Clark greeted me with a smile. Her gaze fixed on my hands. My hands were pale, veins visible beneath the skin. “Addie, your skin is so delicate. Jasper’s like a beast, full of energy, probably afraid to touch you.” “Or you’d die in bed!” A snicker erupted: “It’s not fear, it’s unwillingness! Otherwise, how has our Mrs. Reed remained a pure lady all these years?” Everyone burst into laughter, their gazes on me more lewd and disdainful. I frowned, my cheeks burning. “Enough! Haven’t you had enough?” I snapped. Jasper Reed looked displeased, glaring at me. “They’re complimenting you for being pure, and you’re upset? Stop embarrassing me!” I clenched my fists, my face darkening further. Someone intervened, laughing it off: “Addie, they’re just joking! Don’t be mad! How about I toast to you?” He downed his wine and offered another glass to me. Everyone’s gaze fell on the wine, tense. I pushed it away with a smirk: “I accept the apology, but I won’t drink!” Jasper Reed’s face turned as dark as a storm, his voice filled with anger. “People have been calling you pure and virtuous, and they were wrong? Stop making a scene here!” I clenched my fists, my expression darkening. Noticing this, someone tried to lighten the mood with a laugh: “Addie, we’re all just joking! Don’t get upset! Here, let me propose a toast to you.” With that, the man downed his red wine and offered me another glass. Everyone’s eyes were on that glass, tension hanging in the air as they waited for me to drink. I smirked with disdain and pushed the glass away: “I accept the apology, but I’m not drinking!” Jasper Reed’s expression was thunderous, his voice sharp with anger: “Adeline! You’re going too far! Not even accepting a drink from my friend? Have you lost your mind?” “Have I?” I replied icily, instinctively stepping back, my gaze wary of Jasper Reed. “Who’s lost their mind, you or me? Tonight…” Before I could finish, a sharp pain shot through my neck. My legs gave way, and I collapsed, my consciousness slipping away. “This sedative works wonders!” “I’ve been ready for this. Those rich old guys are practically fighting over Adeline! The auction can’t afford any mistakes!” Phoebe Clark provocatively leaned on Jasper Reed: “Addie, don’t worry, we’ll find you the wealthiest man. Make sure your first time is worth a fortune!” With all my strength, I crawled to Jasper Reed’s feet, clutching his pant leg, pleading: “Let me go… I don’t want to be with other men…” Jasper Reed kicked me away: “Enough! Stop pretending to be some virtuous woman! Didn’t you want someone to touch you? I’m giving away my rights, finding you a strong stand-in partner. You should be happy!” He hugged Phoebe Clark tightly, a stark contrast to how he used to avoid my touch. Disappointment surged through me. The next moment, rough hands dragged me away, stripped me, and threw me into a fully transparent glass enclosure. I helplessly pounded on the box, begging them to let me out. They ignored me, their eyes filled with desire. In despair, I closed my eyes as staff carried me backstage, waiting for my turn. Just then, Mrs. Reed finally arrived. She ordered my rescue and personally dressed me. “I’m sorry, Addie, Jasper Reed is such a jerk!” Mrs. Reed handed me the divorce agreement, instructing her assistant to get me out immediately. Outside the auction venue, I cried uncontrollably until I passed out. By then, the auction had reached its climax. Everyone was eagerly awaiting my appearance. “Where’s Adeline?” Jasper Reed was puzzled, “Why isn’t she on stage yet?” Amidst the eager gazes, Mrs. Reed slowly took the stage. Jasper Reed’s face immediately changed. Mrs. Reed threw the signed divorce agreement at Jasper Reed’s face: “You jerk! Where’s Adeline? She’s gone, remarried! From now on, she’s calling someone else husband, and you have nothing to do with her anymore!” I apologize for any confusion earlier. Could you please provide the specific Chinese text you need translated?

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My wife is a flight attendant, currently undergoing training at Qatar Airways. I’m the one bearing all the expenses. But I’ve heard various unsettling rumors. To get to the bottom of it, I went straight to Qatar during the World Cup. To my utter disbelief, I discovered my wife was involved with a Black man! After witnessing the truth, I quickly divorced her. She went to Africa with him. Yet, unexpectedly, she called me in the middle of the night, crying for help… My wife, Chloe, is a flight attendant. To further her career, I sent her to train at Qatar Airways. Recognized as the best airline globally, experience there would mean a promotion and salary increase back home. Qatar is a land of affluence, with high living expenses. Chloe’s monthly costs are between 40,000 to 50,000, forcing me to save every penny to support her. My monthly expenses are only 1,000, and I’ve even sold my car, riding shared bikes to and from work daily. One evening, Chloe’s cousin, Emily, came to see me. “Brother-in-law, there’s something I’ve wanted to tell you. My sister is a cheating woman, and she’s been unfaithful countless times! You’re such a good man; it’s unfair for you to be married to someone like my cousin. You’ve sacrificed so much for her, always scrimping, yet she’s never stopped cheating on you!” Emily was visibly upset. To be honest, Emily is stunning, even more attractive than my flight attendant wife. At the moment, she’s wearing a beige trench coat over a light blue dress, looking captivating despite the cold weather. Her long legs, wrapped in black stockings, are alluring, her calves slim and elegant, standing tall in red high heels. Her usual work involves modeling products like stockings and lingerie, with her ads showcased on various e-commerce websites. Men are drawn to beautiful women. If I weren’t already married to Chloe, I’d likely be attracted to Emily too. However, I sternly told Emily, “Emily, how can you speak about your cousin like that? I know you have feelings for me, but I’m your brother-in-law. I’m not a man who takes things lightly, and our relationship is strong. Please don’t come between us!” I’m not conceited, but I’ve long noticed Emily’s interest in me. She often gives me flirtatious looks. Especially after Chloe went abroad, Emily frequently visited, using the excuse that no woman was taking care of me. She’d do my laundry, clean the house, and manage chores, even washing my underwear by hand without complaint and cooking meals for me, saying my diet was lacking. There’s no way I, Ethan, would let anything happen with Emily in reality. I won’t do anything immoral! Chloe is a virtuous woman, and I can’t betray our relationship. She said she went to train with Qatar Airways for career development, to contribute to our family. Hearing my blunt words, Emily blushed, looking a bit hurt. She bit her lip, “Brother-in-law, to be honest, I do like you. I had feelings for you before my cousin did, but she acted faster. But I’m not an immoral homewrecker! If you and my cousin are happy, I’ll only wish you well and not destroy your family. But that’s not the case! My cousin’s been playing with your emotions! Spending your money while making a fool of you! I can’t bear to watch! I feel you’re being mistreated, and it’s not worth it!” Emily’s voice was loud. Fearing I wouldn’t believe her, she handed me her phone. “This is their internal group chat. Besides the flight attendants, it’s filled with VIP guests they’ve targeted! Some guest leaked the chat records! Look at what my cousin said in there!” I was dumbfounded when I saw the screenshots. It was a conversation between Emily and a first-class passenger! They were flirting, and it was explicit!

“Brother-in-law, do you remember the morning you went to pick up my cousin and found two pairs of shoes?” Emily asked. I was taken aback. That did happen! We have a wedding tradition where the bride’s friends and family hide her shoes for the groom to find. To get the shoes, the groom must give the bride a red envelope. That day, when I went to pick up Chloe, I found two pairs of shoes! I handed out two extra red envelopes! At the time, I thought Chloe’s family wanted more red envelopes, so they put in an extra pair of shoes. Is there another hidden truth here? Emily’s next words made my eyes nearly pop out of my head! She said they have another tradition. If a woman known as unfaithful gets married, her lover gives her a new pair of shoes. It signifies a double blessing. So, one of the pairs of shoes I found that morning was from Chloe’s lover! What a humiliation! I married a cheating woman with fanfare! “Brother-in-law, I know you’re angry, but it’s not worth it for such a woman. I’ve always been single, waiting for you! I know you have a fire burning inside, and it’s hard to hold back.” Emily gently took my hand. I looked at the charming Emily and gritted my teeth, “Seeing is believing! A chat record alone doesn’t prove anything. What if it was faked with Photoshop? I want to confront her! If it’s true, I’ll divorce her! But if it’s fake, then we shouldn’t contact each other anymore!” Even then, I didn’t want to believe my gentle and virtuous wife was so awful! It happened to be during the Qatar World Cup. The TV was showing halftime, and the cameras were sweeping over the stands. Fans caught on camera would be shown on the big screen at the stadium. People are open; if they see themselves on camera, they’ll wave and dance, and if they’re a couple, they’ll kiss publicly. I saw Emily on TV! Emily was at the game with a Black man! They were caught on camera! They kissed in public! “Brother-in-law, did you see that? My cousin is like a public bus! Entertaining foreign friends too!” Emily continued to provoke me! “Enough!” I stopped Emily’s taunts and called Chloe! The chat records might be fake, but kissing a Black man in public isn’t! I called Chloe dozens of times and finally got through in the middle of the night, Qatar time! “Where are you?” “I’m at the hotel!” “I saw the TV broadcast. What’s with the kiss with that Black man?” I asked, suppressing my anger. “Oh, that? That Black man is just a VIP client of our airline. We’re innocent… As for the kiss, it’s just a foreign tradition, okay? Don’t be so old-fashioned!” Chloe mocked my outdated views. I was about to say more, but she hung up in a hurry. Though I didn’t hear clearly, my instincts told me Chloe was definitely up to something!

I know there’s a popular story online recently. It talks about a man who, upon learning his wife was having an affair at school, couldn’t accept it and biked to the school to get the truth. For three days and nights, he rode a bike from Qingdao to Tai’an, covering 300 kilometers! Riding day and night, scaling tall gates alone. Fighting for love, facing five enemies alone. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a hoax. But now, I’m rushing to Qatar for love too! I used PayPal credit card to buy the next available flight, heading straight to Doha, Qatar. To catch her off guard, I didn’t call Chloe. I first went to her company dorm, only to find out a frustrating truth! Chloe never stayed at the dorm! So where has she been living for the past six months? I asked her colleagues where Chloe was. Those glamorous flight attendants claimed they didn’t know, but I could see in their eyes they pitied me. They must think I’m a poor fool, a cuckold! I could hear their mocking behind my back as I left. “Well, Chloe’s going to get it now!” “Yeah, serves her right for always trying to show off!” “Right, always flirting with the Indian instructor.” In the end, a security guard, an Indian guy, took pity on me and secretly told me. During the Qatar World Cup, if they had free time, Chloe and many flight attendants liked to visit bars near the athlete’s village. Their intentions weren’t just for drinks. Many World Cup players, coaches, family members, and FIFA officials frequented those bars. Although their skin colors and nationalities varied, they shared one common trait—they were all rich. Especially the players, all strong and athletic, were the favorites of these gold digger women! They could earn money and enjoy themselves! I was furious and took a cab to the bar area they mentioned! At the bar entrance, I tried to get in, but the bouncer asked for my ID. He said this was a leisure spot for World Cup personnel, and outsiders weren’t allowed. I pointed to a few blonde beauties heading inside, “Why aren’t you stopping them? Do they need IDs too?” These individuals, regardless of their skin color or nationality, have one thing in common: they’re all wealthy. Especially those athletes, each one strong and fit. They’re the favorites of these gold-digging women! They earn money and enjoy life! When I heard this, I was furious and immediately took a cab to the bar district they mentioned! Upon arriving at the bar entrance, I tried to go in, but the security guard asked for my ID. They explained that this was a leisure spot for World Cup personnel, and outsiders weren’t allowed. I pointed to a few blonde beauties walking in and asked, “Then why don’t you stop them? Do they need IDs too?” The security guard gave me a knowing look. “Heh, heh, men aren’t allowed, but women can go in freely.” I had no choice but to wait outside. An hour later, I saw my wife walking out of the bar, arm in arm with a black man, heading into a small alley! It was clear they weren’t up to anything good! I clenched my teeth and followed them. Once in the alley, I looked around and finally found them behind a trash can, exchanging flirtatious banter. I couldn’t hold back anymore. I picked up a brick from the ground and rushed forward, striking the man on the head with it! He fell forward, taking Chloe down with him. When the cheating woman turned around, she finally noticed me! “Ethan, why are you here?” Chloe asked in surprise. I was shaking with anger. “How dare you ask me that? Look at what you’ve been doing! Aren’t you afraid of getting AIDS with these black men?” Chloe’s face turned cold. “Watch your mouth! What do you mean by ‘black men’? He’s a VIP client of our company! I’m working hard for our family, you know. Times have changed, and everyone is more open-minded now. Don’t be so unsophisticated, okay?” “VIP? You’re a flight attendant, not a hooker! I’m so disappointed in you! Let’s get a divorce!” When she heard me mention divorce, Chloe laughed. “Divorce? Sure! I was planning to keep milking you for living expenses! Now that you know everything, I won’t hide it anymore! Let me tell you, from the day I left the country, I never planned to come back! My dream is to immigrate abroad! Marrying you was just a temporary plan to settle for now! You fool, supporting me, working tirelessly for me! Luckily, I met Jack in Qatar! Jack is not only the younger brother of the captain of the Cameroon national team, but he’s also a professional player. His father is a tribe chief! Do you know he’s an African prince? He’s already proposed to me! You’re of no use to me anymore! Remember, I’m the one dumping you!” “Hehe, I was tired of playing the dutiful wife and mother in front of you. I’m done pretending, I’m free now!” I’m sorry, it seems that the text you wanted translated is missing. Could you provide the text you’d like me to translate?

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Husband lied about being able to see everyone’s lifespan to make up for missed opportunities with Adeline. He claimed I had sixty years left, but his idealized love from the past had only seven days. So, during those seven days, he wanted to fulfill the promises he made to her in their youth. He brought her to our home to personally care for her, and they revisited their young love, rekindling their romance. I didn’t make a fuss. He professed his love to Adeline and then organized an extravagant wedding to marry her, making me the bridesmaid. I didn’t argue. Until he decided to break the ultimate barrier with her in our marital home. With guilt in his eyes, he asked me to move out of our house. The maids laughed at me, but I simply smiled and agreed. I then packed my belongings and moved into the guest room next door with my child. Seeing me as compliant as ever, my husband teared up: “I promise, this is the last time I’ll wrong you. Once Addie passes away, I’ll make it up to you.” He didn’t know I had seen through his lies. Nor did he know that it was actually me with cancer, with only seven days left. In three days, I’ll be gone.

“She just moved next door without a fuss? Wouldn’t she be heartbroken, listening in at night?” “What? You want to help? Didn’t you see how much he dotes on Miss Adeline? She’s just a nobody now; you don’t know whom to flatter.” “Indeed, Mr. Lachlan and Miss Adeline are a better match.” I held my child, pushing boxes from our home, moving things next door trip by trip. I looked around for help, but no one responded. On the fifth day after my terminal diagnosis, my husband wanted to share our new home with his romanticized past love. The maids removed our photos, the bedding, and replaced them with red lovebird sheets, Adeline’s personal items, and their wedding photos. Lachlan glanced coldly over everything, not sparing me a look. He knelt by the sofa, feeding Adeline strawberries, full of indulgence: “I promised you everything a bride should have, you won’t lack anything, don’t let yourself suffer, be good, open your mouth…” My daughter sensed something wrong and whimpered, but Lachlan pretended not to hear. His heart and mind focused only on his first love, leaving me and our daughter to be ridiculed. I gently rocked my child, feeling a bitter ache in my heart. I had no choice; I was dying. After dealing with everything, I didn’t want to talk and planned to return to my room. But as I passed the living room, Adeline wouldn’t let me leave. Lachlan coaxed her for a long time before she shyly spoke: “I don’t have many days left and can’t have kids. I just want to borrow the baby for a few days to see what it’s like to be a mom, but I’m afraid of offending you, sister…” Instantly, everyone’s eyes were on me. I stared firmly at Lachlan. He let his mistress enter the house, making me the maids’ joke. Would he really take my child away, not letting me see her one last time before I die? Seeing Adeline’s face full of melancholy, Lachlan felt pity and looked at me earnestly: “Nora, since you can let go of our home, you won’t mind letting Addie take care of the baby, will you?” I almost forgot; Adeline was the one he vowed to marry when he was young. If Lachlan hadn’t loved her so much, willing to break up rather than hinder her future, they would have been married long ago, and I wouldn’t have picked up the pieces. I only became his wife because I was suitable. Besides responsibility, he had nothing left for me. I forcibly held back the dull pain in my head and asked him: “What if I mind? She’s our daughter, only a month old.” Lachlan paused his fruit-cutting, turned back coldly: “I said, just borrowing the child for three days. Addie’s dying and has never been a mom, what’s wrong with that?” “Anyway, you can live so long, you have plenty of time to see her.” “She’s my daughter! Without my consent, no one can take her.” My voice was resolute. I bled heavily for a whole day to barely give birth to her. And I only have three days left. If I don’t see her more now, I never will. “Nora, I didn’t think you’d be so selfish, can’t you wait just three days?” Lachlan frowned, his tone somber. “I really can’t…” But before I finished, he ordered the maids to restrain me and snatched my daughter, handing her to Adeline. I bit my lip, red-eyed, glaring at him, my heart feeling slashed and bleeding. Yet Adeline smiled triumphantly, her gaze full of pride. The pain in my body couldn’t compare to the pain in my heart. I broke free from the maids, pouncing to grab my daughter back. As I grasped the edge of the swaddle, I felt joy, but then saw Adeline’s sinister smile. I was puzzled when she suddenly fell back, loosening her grip. Seeing my daughter about to fall, I quickly reached out, holding her tight. I fell to the floor from inertia, my elbow throbbing with pain. Gasps surrounded me. But Lachlan caught Adeline, and she nestled in his arms, frightened and wronged: “Sister, if you didn’t want to lend me the child, just say so. No need to use her as a shield to push and bully me…” A maid also stepped up to defend her: “Ma’am, you overreacted. Little Miss is so small. If she hit her head on the ground, she couldn’t be saved!” Lachlan was initially moved by my willingness to protect our child, but after hearing this, his eyes filled with disappointment and anger: “Nora, I can’t believe you’re so cruel to use our child as leverage to bully Addie. You don’t deserve to be a mom!” He said, snatching my daughter from the floor. “For these few days, go stay in the maids’ quarters and serve Addie well.” After speaking, Lachlan saw my tears, curled on the ground, hesitating, a hint of concern in his eyes: “Are you unwell?” To the side, Adeline shrugged: “Sister, you didn’t hit your head. Why act like you have a concussion, trying to gain Lachlan’s sympathy?” “The child isn’t crying, but you, an adult, are. That’s not right.” Lachlan’s concern vanished, replaced by disgust: “Don’t act like you’re dying. Your bright sixty-year lifespan is clear. You can’t fool me.” My heart ached with countless pains. He’d been lying to me all along. Thinking of the time after our whirlwind wedding, the close moments with Lachlan, felt like a dream. In the later stages of my pregnancy, he pushed away work, cooked for me daily, and applied oil to prevent stretch marks. He didn’t mind my swollen, unattractive appearance, still hugging and kissing me… But in just five days after Adeline’s return, everything changed. Lachlan protected Adeline, even the maids sided with her. I was isolated, with no support. When the pain subsided, I sat up from the floor, finding the living room empty. Lachlan ordered I shouldn’t see my daughter for these days, even throwing my luggage from the guest room into the maids’ quarters. With my body unwell, I planned to return to my room but was stopped by Adeline. “Sister, I plan to let my Bichon Frise stay here. Maybe you can make do in the basement for a few days.” I gritted my teeth, glaring at Lachlan behind her. Lachlan pursed his lips, finally stopping her from moving me again: “Alright, the guest room next door is for your dog. The maids’ quarters suit her.” Hearing this, Adeline cheerfully ran upstairs to arrange the doghouse, and Lachlan comforted me: “Nora, I just want to make up for her dying regrets. I promise to stay with Addie for three days.” “After three days, we can spend sixty years together. She’s just passing through, you’re still my legal wife, nothing will change.” Lachlan touched my head. “Be good, be generous, and I promise you won’t be wronged again.” He said and walked away. But he didn’t know I had no time to be generous. We had no future. 2 Five days ago, I was diagnosed with brain cancer, only seven days to live. I told Lachlan about the cancer, but he didn’t believe me, saying I was pretending to be pitiful like Adeline. Since he didn’t believe me, I stopped explaining. The pain in my brain left me weak and limp. Dazed, I heard a knock on the door. Opening it, I found Mrs. Chen, sent by Lachlan with a gift for me—a bouquet of eternal gold roses. He also had Mrs. Chen convey that it was compensation for giving up the new house and my daughter. Mrs. Chen was the only one in the villa who truly cared for me now. She smiled, suppressing her distaste for Adeline, and advised me: “Mr. Lachlan is just temporarily blinded by a vixen. Sending an expensive gift shows he still cares for you.” “Maybe it’ll be better in a few days. Ma’am, just bear with it.” I placed the roses in the corner without expression. There were already four identical bouquets of eternal roses there. I nodded perfunctorily. Since Lachlan lied to me, he sent Mrs. Chen with such a bouquet every day. Mrs. Chen couldn’t see, but after three years of sharing a bed, how could I not know? He was just trying to ease his guilt, deceiving himself. Even sending flowers was done secretly; he didn’t think he was wrong. Looking at the eternal flowers in the corner, only two bouquets left. Once they’re gone, I’ll likely be gone too. There’s no eternity for me… Brain cancer is truly torturous. After a night of splitting headaches, I barely slept at dawn. Suddenly, my phone rang abruptly, pulling me from sleep. I pressed my temples hard, answering the call from my attending doctor. Dr. Xavier’s excited voice rang out: Mrs. Chen might not notice, but after spending three years by his side, how could I not see through him? He’s just trying to ease his guilt, fooling himself. Even when he gives flowers, he does it in secret. He doesn’t think he’s in the wrong at all. Looking at the Eternal Flowers in the corner, only two bouquets remain. Once they’re gone, so might I be. Where’s the eternity in that… Brain cancer is truly relentless. After an entire night of a splitting headache, I finally managed to catch some sleep at dawn. Suddenly, my phone rang, startling me awake. Pressing hard on my temples, I answered the call from my physician. Dr. Xavier’s excited voice came through: “Ms. Nora, a new drug that can inhibit brain cancer cells has just been released abroad. Supplies are limited, but I managed to get a bottle through some connections.” “It might help extend your life a bit. If you’d like, come to the hospital to pick it up.” Hearing this, I was overwhelmed with joy. Even if it’s just for my daughter, I need to live a few more days. So I agreed immediately and rushed to the hospital to get the new medicine. Dr. Xavier specifically reminded me that the new drug is precious and needs to be kept safe. He said it could help me survive the next two days and maybe extend my life until the next batch is produced. With tears in my eyes, I paid for the medicine and held it tightly in my hand. But as soon as I left the pharmacy, I ran into Lachlan and Adeline, who were there to pick up medicine too. Seeing the medicine in my hand, Lachlan immediately approached me, nervously asking: “Are you sick? Why are you at the hospital getting medicine?” Lachlan kept turning me around, trying to figure out what illness I had. These days, he’s been wavering between me and Adeline, making me think he still cares about me. I couldn’t help but find it amusing and casually told the truth: “Yeah, cancer, only a few days left to live.” Lachlan froze for a moment, but Adeline reacted first, bursting into tears: “Sister, you know I have cancer and live in pain every day, yet you joke about it with me.” “Yeah, if I die sooner, I won’t burden Brother Lachlan with taking care of me. I’m just a wretched short-lived ghost! Let me die!” She said this and tried to climb out of the corridor window, but Lachlan stopped her instantly. Lachlan was both angry and heartbroken, turning to scold me harshly: “Nora, why do you keep using cancer to provoke Addie? You’re living just fine. Do you know how tormenting illness is?” “You’re so selfish, acting like you’re dying all the time. Even the King of the Underworld wouldn’t take someone like you! You’re blind!” With that, he grabbed the medicine from my hand, speaking angrily: “I want to see what kind of life-threatening disease you really have!” “Don’t touch my medicine!” Knowing how precious the new drug is, I panicked and rushed to get it back. But Lachlan pushed me away, seeing the blank label on the bottle. The drug is still in the trial phase, so there’s no label on the bottle. Adeline sneered at me: “Sister, if you’re faking cancer, at least write something on the prop bottle. How crude. How can Brother Lachlan believe you?” “Brother Lachlan, who knows what’s in there. We can’t let her take it. What if it kills her?” I shot her a cold glance, gritting my teeth: “If I die from it, what… does it matter to you…” Before I could finish, Lachlan had already tossed the bottle out the window with a wave of his hand. Outside the window was the artificial lake!

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I was a rehabilitation therapist hired by a wealthy family, but I ended up posing as the groom to marry into the Mason Family. The CEO’s wife despised me for wrecking the grand wedding she had meticulously planned for her childhood friend. Disregarding the heavy snowfall outside, she dumped cold water over me and punished me by making me kneel outside the front gate for three days and nights. While I was freezing and bruised, she spent her days drinking and partying with her male companion inside. To entertain him, she even ordered the removal of my sister’s oxygen tube, resulting in her suffocation and death. Afterward, she casually tossed me a check: “Didn’t you claim to love your sister the most? Now that she’s gone, I don’t see you shedding a single tear.” “Fill in the amount yourself, and don’t go around saying the Mason Family is stingy with their sister-in-law.” I turned away, tore up the check, and began arranging my sister’s funeral. What she didn’t know was that before the wedding, her childhood friend had taken the money and fled the country. I was merely a tool her family used to save her reputation. Now, my sister is gone, and the debt to the Mason Family is repaid. It’s time for me to leave.

“Asher! I’ve told you, no funeral for your sister. If people find out I have such a sickly sister-in-law, where would that leave my reputation?” “Get back here immediately! Caspian’s legs are sore. Aren’t you a top-tier rehabilitation therapist? Hurry back and give him a massage.” As soon as I hung up, Amanda’s furious voice echoed for everyone to hear. Caspian, as she mentioned, is her new boyfriend, who bears a striking resemblance to her childhood friend. I glanced down at the urn in my arms and said, “I didn’t…” hold a funeral for my sister; it was a direct burial. Before I could finish, she hung up. Just then, Mrs. Mason arrived hastily after hearing the news. Mrs. Mason frowned at the surroundings and turned to the butler, “Why isn’t Amanda here? Doesn’t she know today is her sister-in-law’s burial?” The butler, wiping his forehead, replied softly, “Madam, I can’t reach the young master…” Mrs. Mason called Amanda several times before she answered. “Amanda! You’ve been causing enough trouble daily, but do you even know what today is…” Mrs. Mason was impatiently interrupted. “Mom, is Asher spinning tales for you again? Ignore him; he’s nothing but a lying fraud.” “You…” All Mrs. Mason was left with was a busy tone. Mrs. Mason looked at me apologetically: “Asher, I’m sorry. Amanda is spoiled by me.” I shook my head. She wouldn’t even arrange my sister’s funeral, so why would she come to the cemetery for the burial? I’ve long been used to it. For seven years, Amanda detested me, believing I ruined the grand wedding she planned for her childhood friend. She treated me coldly, allowed the staff to bully me, and looked down on my background. Later, for Declan, she aborted our barely two-month-old child and sent me the video to boast. I still remember the icy look in her eyes that day: “Asher, you’re not fit to be my child’s father!” She even pointed at my sister with hatred: “Asher, you and your sister are the disgrace of my life!” Thinking of this, I looked at my sister’s smiling photo on the tombstone and silently said, “Mom, the seven-year promise is up.” Mom, upon hearing this, looked flustered for a moment. I agreed to marry into the Mason Family to repay them for the medical expenses they covered for my sister, setting a seven-year term with Mrs. Mason. Now, my sister is gone, and the term is up. It’s time for me to go. Mrs. Mason dismissed the butler and others, her voice hoarse: “Asher, I know you don’t want to stay with the Mason Family. I can let you go, but…” Her expression changed, turning stern: “You must always keep the wedding secret and never mention a word to Amanda until the day you die!” With that, she handed me a black card: “Consider it a token of my appreciation. The money inside is enough to secure your life after this. Take it.” It wasn’t appreciation; it was hush money. If I didn’t take it, Mrs. Mason probably wouldn’t let me leave easily. Seeing me accept the black card, her tense expression relaxed a bit, and she said quietly: “There are still seven days until the end of the seven-year term. Leave after seven days. The Mason Family also needs a legitimate reason for the announcement.” I nodded. The purpose of marrying me into the family was for the Mason Family’s reputation and Amanda’s public image. Waiting seven more days was nothing to me. Mrs. Mason took the flowers from the butler and placed them in front of the tombstone, regretfully saying: “We’ve received news from abroad that they’ve found medicine to treat your sister. We just needed a few more days…” She sighed deeply: “I should never have softened and agreed to let her leave the hospital. If only…” My sister’s condition originally didn’t allow her to be discharged, but her health suddenly improved, and she insisted on leaving the hospital, not wanting to stay there. That’s why I agreed for her to come home to recuperate. I placed my sister’s favorite toy in front of the tombstone and said softly: “Perhaps this way, she won’t suffer from illness anymore.” For her, it was a form of release. After offering some comfort, Mrs. Mason left with the butler. But soon after, a few familiar-faced bodyguards barged into the cemetery, raising hammers to destroy my sister’s tombstone. I stepped forward to stop them: “What are you doing!” The lead bodyguard signaled to stop, speaking coldly: “Son-in-law, please don’t make it difficult for us. These are the lady’s orders. She also asked us to deliver a message.” I clutched the hammer tightly and asked: “What message?” The bodyguard hesitated: “This is the consequence of being late. From now on, for every second you’re late, you’ll kneel in the ancestral hall for another minute.”

I then remembered Amanda wanted me back to massage Declan. As soon as they spoke, the bodyguards pulled me away, raising the hammer and smashing the tombstone into pieces. I tried to stop them, but my hands were held tightly, unable to move. “No! Stop! I’ll go back with you!” I shouted desperately, urging them to stop. Hearing this, they immediately put down the hammers, turned, and gestured for me to follow. Upon returning, I didn’t see Amanda. The bodyguard beside me put away a stopwatch and said: “Son-in-law, you’re late. The young master wants you to kneel and pay respects around the ancestral hall a hundred times.” Kneeling in the ancestral hall was a usual punishment Amanda used on me. She hated me deeply but was concerned about rumors of the Mason Family abusing their son-in-law. She came up with the idea of making me kneel and pay respects daily, which could be seen as strict family tradition and filial piety of the son-in-law. I didn’t want to stir up trouble in these last ten days, so I endured it, kneeling and paying respects to the Mason Family ancestors with every step. On my 99th round, Amanda returned, accompanied by Declan. Feigning surprise, Declan pointed at me and said: “They say kneeling sincerely is the only way it works. But Brother Asher is so perfunctory. Besides, he’s the Mason Family’s son-in-law. If word gets out that he’s disrespectful to ancestors, it could implicate you, Sister Amanda.” Hearing this, Amanda frowned: “Do it again, kneel properly. Don’t disgrace the Mason Family.” Following her words, I saw the smug look on Declan’s face as his long fingers pointed. “What are you looking at? Hurry and kneel again!” Amanda took the teacup from a servant and threw it in front of me. Enduring the sharp pain, I knelt, allowing the broken fragments to pierce my knees. I silently recited, only seven days left. Once the debt is repaid, I can leave the Mason Family forever. If I hadn’t signed an agreement not to tarnish the Mason Family’s reputation or bring shame to their name, I wouldn’t have endured Amanda’s abuse for seven years. Initially, I thought this would be temporary. After some time, she’d let go of the impersonation incident. I never imagined kneeling would last seven long years. Amanda’s resentment not only remained but turned into hatred. She blamed me for ruining her future. A month after our wedding, she told me: “If I’m unhappy, you shouldn’t be happy either.” She thought I married into the Mason Family for their wealth and public admiration, which made her despise me even more. Moreover, she ordered everyone in the Mason household not to show me any respect or sympathy, letting others treat me like a slave. Over the years, I’ve been worn down, living worse than stray dogs passing by the Mason home. Amanda’s male companions came and went, each bearing some resemblance to her childhood friend. I knew she was reminding me of the impersonation incident. Declan brought a bowl of rice dumplings to Amanda, and she affectionately said: “It’s so cold, yet you still cook. What if you catch a cold?” Declan brushed the snow off her coat, smiling: “It’s not that cold. Try it and see if it’s sweet.” As they moved, I saw Amanda’s face light up with a smile, saying it was sweet. But she always hated sweet food, especially rice dumplings. Once, to mend our relationship, I made her a bowl of rice dumplings. Without a word, she knocked over the boiling ceramic bowl. Coldly, she said: “Asher, don’t assume you know my preferences. Remember your identity as an imposter!” “Don’t let such cheap things appear in the Mason Family again; I find them dirty.” Since then, no rice dumplings have appeared in the Mason Family kitchen. After finishing my kneeling, I stood up, feeling the snow falling again. This time, it was colder and more piercing than ever. My consciousness was slipping. When I woke up, Amanda stood by the bed, her voice cold: “Asher, you’ve grown bold, using self-harm as a tactic. Do you think I’ll let you off because of this? Keep dreaming.” “It’s just kneeling in the ancestral hall; at most, your knees are injured. The wounds on your back and arms are unnecessary. Next time, make it more convincing.” “I don’t want to see this cheap stuff in the Mason Family ever again. It’s beneath us.” After that, not a single Rice Dumpling showed up in the Mason Family kitchen. Once I rose from kneeling, I felt the snow falling again, colder and more biting than ever before. My consciousness began to fade. When I came to, Amanda stood by my bed, her voice icy, “Asher, you’ve really gotten bold, haven’t you? Playing the victim card now? You think that’ll make me go easy on you? Keep dreaming.” “Kneeling in the Ancestral Hall might hurt your knees, but the wounds on your back and arms are excessive. Next time, make it more convincing.” All my injuries were because of her. If it weren’t for her orders, I wouldn’t have been beaten and scolded by other members of the Mason Family. Old wounds never healed before new ones appeared. It’s been like this for seven years, and yet she has the nerve to question me. She thought she’d seen through my facade and sneered, “Asher, if you help me with something, I won’t make you kneel in the Ancestral Hall today.” I looked up at her. With a smile, she said, “The roads are slippery from the snow. Caspian accidentally hit someone. You need to take the blame for him. Just like before. You’ll be back in two days.” I immediately thought of the day my sister died. I missed her last moments because I was covering for Declan. And now she wants me to be Declan’s scapegoat again. It’s laughable. I looked at her and said, “I’m not going.” Amanda’s expression changed, and she said coldly, “Asher, this isn’t a discussion. I’m informing you. You owe me. Do you think being the Mason Family’s live-in son-in-law is an easy position?” “I’ve already spread the news. Do you want the Mason Family to bear the stigma of covering up a crime? Asher, aren’t you always concerned about the Mason Family’s reputation?” She said this and then walked out with her phone to make a call. She always uses this pretext to make me take the fall for others, constantly threatening me with the Mason Family’s reputation. Before long, Declan came in, smirking, “Who would’ve thought, the Mason Family’s son-in-law, looking so polished on the outside, is actually a miserable wretch behind closed doors.” “You’re wasting this status. Why not give it to me? Amanda never loved you anyway. Why hold on?” “I heard you’ve lived worse than a dog in the Mason Family these years. Kneeling in the Ancestral Hall daily is one thing, but even at night, you have to fight for a place to sleep. You’ve covered for her for so many years. Has she ever smiled at you?” Declan wasn’t wrong; my life in the Mason Family was indeed worse than a dog’s. Though I carried the title of son-in-law, no one in the Mason Family recognized me as such. Behind my back, they spoke ill of me and even cursed me to die miserably. They all said I was a parasite, one you couldn’t shake off once attached. They believed that even being under the same roof with me would bring bad luck, so they didn’t even want to say a word to me. Often, they preferred to call Declan the son-in-law. Declan saw my silence as agreement and laughed, “Asher, you should thank me. If it weren’t for me, you wouldn’t have gotten rid of your sickly sister.” I grabbed him and asked, “What do you mean?” He laughed, “Asher, you think your sister died because her illness worsened? That’s not it.” I lost control and grabbed his collar, scaring him into screaming, which alerted Amanda outside. She came in and slapped me hard. She pushed me heavily to the ground, and I felt a sharp pain in my waist. But the residual anesthesia numbed my senses. Declan deliberately fell and shouted, “Amanda, don’t blame him. It’s all my fault. If it weren’t for my face, he wouldn’t have done this…” I struggled to get up, wanting to explain, but the pain in my back overwhelmed me, leaving me speechless. Amanda carefully helped Declan up, looking at the red marks on his neck. She called the bodyguards outside with a stern face. She knelt down in front of me and said coldly, “Didn’t the Butler tell you? The Mason Family tradition forbids jealousy.” “Seems like you’ve forgotten the Mason Family rules. Let me help you remember.” She signaled, and four bodyguards stood in line. Amanda left the hospital room with Declan, throwing back a command at the door, “Break the hand that grabbed.” I curled up in pain on the ground. The pain in my wrist was nothing compared to the pain in my heart. I tried to get up, but a bodyguard stomped me down. In an instant, I heard the sound of bones breaking inside me. Mrs. Mason burst in, yelling, “What are you doing! Stop it! Do you want to kill someone!” But the bodyguards didn’t stop until my left hand was deformed, unrecognizable. Mrs. Mason cradled me with a look of heartache and shouted at the Butler, “Where’s the doctor? Call a doctor!” Seeing my body covered in bandages, with not a single unscathed spot, she couldn’t bear to look any longer. She turned away and said, “Amanda went too far this time. How could she do this to you? You’re her husband…” Moments later, her expression changed. She looked at me and said, “Asher, you should go. There’s no need to wait for the remaining five days…” As soon as those words left her mouth, the Butler placed my luggage in front of me. I took the plane ticket Mrs. Mason handed me, and she advised, “I’ve packed a few things of your sister’s from when she was alive. Keep them as a memento.” “I’ll explain to Amanda. Don’t worry about it. Just promise me you’ll take care of yourself.” I nodded as the professional medical staff took me away overnight. Watching my departing figure, Mrs. Mason asked with regret, “Did I make a mistake? I shouldn’t have orchestrated this marriage.” “Otherwise, Asher and Amanda wouldn’t have turned out this way…” The Butler handed her a tissue, comforting her, “Madam, it’s not your fault. If you hadn’t been forced back then, I believe you wouldn’t have done this.” Years ago, when Mrs. Mason lost her husband, just after the funeral, rumors of the Mason Group’s collapse spread. With only the mother and daughter left in the Mason Family, everyone was watching them, waiting for their downfall. Just when Amanda was establishing herself as the leader, her fiancé ran off with money. How could Mrs. Mason just watch this happen? So, she devised a plan to switch grooms. The Mason Family couldn’t become a laughingstock, so Mrs. Mason chose the newly arrived rehabilitation therapist, Asher. In one night, Asher went from being a poor therapist to a wealthy family’s son-in-law. Thinking of this, Mrs. Mason couldn’t help but regret, “I wronged Asher…” A few days after Amanda disappeared, she looked at her phone’s empty notification bar. She refreshed it repeatedly, but there were no new messages from me. In the past, after I got beaten, I’d always come to her to agree to her demands. But now, I hadn’t shown up. She only asked me to cover for Declan. It wasn’t the first time. I couldn’t be avoiding her. The thought made Amanda even more frustrated, and the bodyguards sent out to find me hadn’t reported back. Declan, noticing her frustration, handed her a glass of her favorite wine, but she pushed it aside without a glance. With no messages from me, her mind was restless, and this made her uneasy. Unable to bear it any longer, she finally called me. After a long wait, the cold voice from the receiver said the line was disconnected. Frustrated, she smashed the wine glass on the table and headed back to the Mason Family. Once there, she hurried upstairs. Seeing the familiar room decor, she sighed in relief. She thought I was just playing my usual disappearing act. In the past, my resistance to Amanda was to cut off contact, turn off my phone, and stay elsewhere for a few days before returning. She assumed this time was no different. Declan, worried, asked, “If he’s not here, what about the accident I caused?” Amanda reassured him from the sofa, “Don’t worry. With Asher taking the fall, I’ll make sure you’re fine.” “He can’t hide for long. Maybe he’ll come back on his own tomorrow, and then I’ll make him apologize to you.” Just then, the Butler came in, casually dumping my belongings on the floor like trash. At first, she didn’t care, thinking it was just some old clothes being discarded. But when the Butler pulled out a toy bunny, the disdain in her eyes faded. She frowned, “He’s giving up all this?” The Butler nodded. She sensed something was off. That toy was my most cherished item, caught by my sister herself. I never let anyone touch it, so how could I abandon it? Doubt rose in Amanda’s mind, but she quickly suppressed it. She frowned and asked, “Where did Asher go?” Before the Butler could reply, Mrs. Mason came downstairs, holding a document. Amanda’s unease intensified, though she didn’t realize she was holding her breath. When Mrs. Mason handed her the divorce papers, she finally understood the source of her frustration. Mrs. Mason said quietly, “These are the divorce papers Asher left you. He’s left the Mason Family for good.” Could you provide the specific text you need translated? I’ll be happy to help once I have it.

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