For ten years, my CEO wife, Chloe, had consistently ghosted on our vacation plans. This year was no different; she cancelled our long weekend getaway, claiming she had to go on another urgent business trip. Yet, moments later, I received a message from Dylan, the man she truly loved. It was a picture of him and Chloe on a family outing, a wide smile on her face as she played with a child. “Ryan,” the text read, “if I’m not mistaken, she probably told you she had a business trip, didn’t she? After all these years, it’s hilarious you still fall for that excuse.” “Guess where she’s taking me this time?” My gaze locked onto the corner of the photo, where a boarding pass clearly showed “Fairbanks, Alaska.” I typed back immediately: “Couldn’t care less if you went to hell.” Not long after, Chloe’s furious call came through. “Dylan was just sharing his life, and you’re being so petty! Why do you have to pick a fight with him over everything?” “You apologize to Dylan right now. I’ll make it up to you, I promise I’ll find time to go on a trip with you when I get back from my business trip.” Listening to her make yet another empty promise, I mumbled a few dismissive words before hanging up. But she didn’t know. I’d already discovered she had a pair of twin boys with another man. In three days, my divorce petition would be finalized. It was time for this marriage, built on a foundation of lies, to end.

I stared at the dozens of angry calls from my wife, Chloe Thompson. I’d just snapped at Dylan, the man she truly loved, and she immediately jumped to his defense, practically demanding I get on my knees and apologize. Anyone who didn’t know us would have thought Dylan was her husband. The screen went dark again. Perhaps her patience had run out; the frantic ringing stopped. Instead, a few SnapChat messages popped up. They were from Chloe: “Ryan, apologize to Dylan right now. I promise you, I’ll take you on vacation when I get back.” “Haven’t you always wanted to see the Northern Lights? We can go to Fairbanks and see them.” A bitter laugh escaped me. Fairbanks, Alaska, the exact place she was supposedly going on her “business trip.” Did she have to take Dylan to every single place I ever dreamed of? I didn’t want to deal with it and was about to turn off my phone when another message from Dylan appeared. It was a family photo. Even without zooming in, I could clearly make out Chloe’s slender figure. “Ryan, I honestly can’t believe it. You know your wife has a whole other family, and you’ve tolerated it for years. How can you stand it? You must have been a spineless coward in your past life.” “Given your years of patience, I’ll tell you one more thing: about Chloe’s hospitalization abroad three years ago.” “She told you she had uterine fibroids and needed foreign medical treatment, but that was a lie. I came up with that excuse for her. I just never thought you’d believe it so easily, or that you’d even thoughtfully give her your life savings.” “Actually, she went abroad that year to give birth to my children. I wanted her to have them in a local hospital, but she insisted on flying overseas, considering you…” I didn’t read the rest of the lengthy text. I had no desire to. Three years into our marriage, all my friends were raising families, and I envied them deeply. I went back to Chloe and told her I wanted a child, but she said her career was taking off, and a baby would only be a burden. Two more years passed. Just when I finally got her to agree, she broke down in tears, telling me she had uterine fibroids and had already contacted a doctor abroad for a minor surgery that would make her healthy again. That trip lasted three years. When she finally returned, she told me, with red eyes, that the surgery had gone wrong, and she could never have children. I still remember her sobbing uncontrollably that day: “Ryan, I’m so sorry. I made you wait all these years, and I still couldn’t fulfill your dream of becoming a father.” Looking at her swollen, red eyes, my heart ached as I said, “It’s okay, Chloe. As long as you’re healthy, it’s fine if things stay this way.” I thought Chloe and I would adopt a child and live out our lives together. But then, Dylan, her true love, suddenly sent me a pregnancy confirmation. It boldly displayed my wife, Chloe Thompson’s, name. I thought it was a prank, one of Dylan’s tricks to mess with me, and I dismissed it several times. Deep down, I still believed Chloe’s heart belonged only to me. It wasn’t until I received another photo from Dylan, showing children strikingly similar to Chloe, that I had no choice but to believe. That pregnancy confirmation was real. She had indeed given birth to Dylan’s children behind my back, twins no less. She even used her health as an excuse to deceive me, all to keep me from suspecting. The thought sent a sharp, stabbing pain through my heart. The excruciating pain in my palm brought me back to reality. I angrily blocked and deleted Dylan from SnapChat. A moment later, Mr. Henderson, our butler, came over, holding a gift box. “Master Ryan, this is a birthday present from Miss Chloe.” With that, Mr. Henderson opened the box. Inside was an exquisite watch. Its design clearly indicated it was custom-made. My heart sank at the butler’s words. Staring at the expensive watch, I suddenly remembered Chloe’s promise years ago that she would spend every one of my birthdays with me, wholeheartedly. Ever since Dylan reappeared, her promises had become empty words. Whether she was with me or not, she always prepared a gift for me every year. However, this was the fourth time she’d given me this exact watch. Yet, the gifts she gave Dylan were always new and unique, each one clearly chosen with more care than this watch. I snapped a few pictures of the watch and casually listed it on eBay, setting the starting bid at $10. Mr. Henderson, seeing my slight smile, assumed I was chatting with Chloe and said contentedly, “Seeing you two so happy together, I can rest easy.” I didn’t reply. After a few more polite words, the butler left. Just as I was about to head upstairs, my phone buzzed with an update on the divorce application I’d submitted earlier. The papers would be finalized in three days. I gripped my phone, my eyes darkening. It was truly time for this marriage, steeped in lies, to end.

No sooner had I packed up the watch than Mr. Henderson came in with a package. “Master Ryan, this package is a bit damaged. The delivery person required a signature. Could you please check if everything inside is alright?” I took the package from Mr. Henderson, my mind puzzled. I hadn’t ordered anything recently. I instinctively knew it couldn’t be Chloe’s; she never bought things online. I personally purchased all her daily necessities; she wouldn’t touch such things. It wasn’t until I saw the recipient’s name on the shipping label that my shocked expression softened. It was indeed Chloe’s package. At Mr. Henderson’s urging, I opened the box. Inside were two pairs of children’s shoes. Mr. Henderson looked equally surprised: “This… could it be that Miss Chloe is pregnant? Didn’t she say she could never—” Before Mr. Henderson could finish, Chloe’s call came through. Her voice was hurried, laced with a hint of nervousness: “Ryan, did a package just arrive at the house? Did you…” I didn’t wait for her to finish. I already knew what she was going to say. Looking at the children’s shoes in the box, I calmly replied: “Just got it. Don’t worry, I’ve signed for it.” She paused, then after a long silence, said, “Good. Don’t overthink it. Those are gifts for a friend’s children. He helped me out a great deal before, and I’m just showing my appreciation.” A bitter laugh escaped me. They were clearly for Dylan’s twin boys, yet she still came up with such a flimsy excuse. I couldn’t help but snap back, “Is that friend named Dylan?” At my words, Chloe’s tone instantly changed: “Ryan, what are you talking about? Are you mad I didn’t spend your birthday with you? Didn’t I promise you I’d make it up to you when I get back from my time off?” “Stop dragging Dylan into everything! How many times do I have to tell you, we’re just friends!” I tightened my grip on the gift box, smiling as I asked, “Then why were you in such a hurry to call back? Aren’t you just afraid I’ll go confront Dylan?” I expected her to explode, but she merely mumbled a few words: “You’re being completely unreasonable! I just didn’t want you to overthink things when you saw it. I can’t believe you’d think that of me. Looks like I worried about you for nothing!” I was somewhat surprised. Before, whenever I mentioned Dylan in front of her, she’d ignite like a powder keg, ready to explode at the slightest spark. But any lingering doubts vanished the next second when I heard a child’s tender voice on the phone. Then I realized: she hadn’t changed; she was just trying not to argue with me in front of the kids. Before I could speak, she hung up, leaving me with a dead line. She kept claiming that she and Dylan were just friends, yet she turned around and had children with him. Were they really just friends? Just then, Chloe’s Ragdoll cat, Maoqiu, suddenly ran over. My eyes darkened. I immediately tried to leave, but it was too late. Red spots were already appearing on my arm. In moments, the few scattered spots became a full-blown rash all over my body, itching intensely, even swelling. I was highly allergic to cat fur, but Chloe still insisted on keeping the cat, simply because Dylan had given it to her. I’d even given her the cold shoulder for a month over it. She brushed it off, a look of disdain on her face: “It’s just a minor allergy, isn’t it? I’ll buy you some allergy medicine, that’s all. Only a cold-hearted person like you would shut out such a cute cat!” The swollen area on my body grew larger. I quickly went to find my allergy medicine. But I rummaged through the medicine cabinet several times, and there was no allergy medicine inside. My body felt worse and worse, even my breathing became difficult. My head felt increasingly heavy, and the next second, I lost consciousness. When I woke up, I overheard Mr. Henderson on the phone with Chloe. Mr. Henderson was elderly and used the speakerphone when taking calls. Chloe’s cold voice crackled through the phone: “It’s just a minor allergy. Is it worth calling me in the middle of the night for this? Can’t you just buy him some allergy medicine? You’ve been with the Thompson family for years; do I really need to teach you such things?” “And by the way, don’t bother me with trivial matters like this again!” Through the crack in the door, I saw that before Mr. Henderson could speak, she had already hung up. I chuckled to myself, a bitter, self-deprecating sound. I should have expected this outcome. What was I still hoping for? Mr. Henderson entered the room, looking at me with a sympathetic expression.

After a day of observation, the doctor finally discharged me. As soon as I finished the discharge procedures, I received a message from the family court. With the divorce certificate in hand, I took a taxi home. As I approached the main gate, I heard laughter and lively chatter from inside. I thought Chloe had returned early. I intended to give her the divorce certificate and explain everything to her face. The next second, I heard Mrs. Thompson, Chloe’s mother, and her second aunt, Aunt Margaret, speaking: “If Chloe hadn’t been so stubborn about marrying him back then, I never would have allowed him into our Thompson family!” “Anyway, Chloe and Dylan have children now. Ryan is utterly useless. When he gets back, we’ll just make him sign the divorce papers!” Aunt Margaret immediately chimed in, “Yes, yes. The children are growing up in the blink of an eye. You should enjoy the blessings of having grandchildren.” I clenched my fists. So, their entire family knew Chloe had given birth to twins with another man, and I was the only one kept in the dark, foolishly believing her for all these years. I pushed open the door, my face cold. The two women turned, startled. “Are you a ghost! Don’t you make a sound when you walk!” Mrs. Thompson impatiently glared at me, her face darkening: “What are you standing around for? Go make some tea! I don’t know what you learned in all those etiquette lessons over the years. You’re still so unrefined, a disgrace to look at.” Back then, Mrs. Thompson despised my humble origins. Although she agreed to my marriage with Chloe, she privately enrolled me in various etiquette classes, hinting repeatedly that I was unworthy of her daughter, and if I didn’t practice diligently, her daughter would embarrass the Thompson family when taking me out. Though I was utterly unwilling, thinking of Chloe’s difficult relationship with her mother because of me, I endured everything, doing exactly as Mrs. Thompson wished. But I never imagined that after all these years, she still looked down on me. When I brought them two cups of hot tea, Aunt Margaret vigorously nudged Mrs. Thompson, giving her a pointed look. Just as I was about to head upstairs, Mrs. Thompson directly flung a divorce agreement at me. She said coldly, “Wait a moment. Sign this divorce agreement first.” She paused, then continued, “This is Chloe’s wish too. She’s too shy to say it, so as her mother, I naturally have to help her.” “I assume you overheard what Aunt Margaret and I were saying. I won’t hide it from you. Chloe has already had children outside this marriage. This divorce was bound to happen sooner or later.” I looked up at her. Regardless of whose wish it was, I already had the divorce certificate. This marriage was over no matter what, so what harm was there in signing another agreement? With that thought, I signed my name in a flash. Seeing my decisiveness, both women were stunned, as if they were dreaming. “May I leave now?” I asked, looking at their shocked expressions. Aunt Margaret instantly reacted, scoffing, “Yes, you should. You’re no longer the Thompson family’s son-in-law. There’s no reason for you to overstay your welcome.” Mrs. Thompson immediately followed up: “Mr. Henderson, quickly tell the staff to pack up his things. Make sure he’s out of the Thompson estate today.” Mr. Henderson heard her and was about to call the staff, but I stopped him: “No need. I’ll pack my own things.” Aunt Margaret, hearing this, her eyes glinted, mocked, “We’d better have someone watch him. Can’t guarantee he’ll be honest about taking his things. If anything goes missing, it’ll be our Thompson family’s money lost!” I ignored her and went straight upstairs, packing a few of my most used clothes. I didn’t touch any of the clothes Chloe had given me. I also placed the divorce certificate in a gift box and asked Mr. Henderson to give it to Chloe. After I finished everything, I dragged my luggage and left the Thompson estate. To my surprise, as soon as I stepped out the main gate, I overheard the servants saying they were preparing to welcome back the young masters who were living elsewhere in a couple of days. Only then did I realize that Mrs. Thompson was so eager for me to divorce because she wanted to welcome Dylan’s two sons into the family. The next day, Chloe returned from her time off, with Dylan trailing behind her. She walked in and looked around. Not seeing me, a strange sense of dread pounded in her chest. Dylan, however, scanned the living room, looking left and right, and asked, “Chloe, where’s Maoqiu? Did Ryan throw him out while you were gone?” Maoqiu was the Ragdoll cat’s name. Chloe frowned, remembering my allergy. She wanted to say something but didn’t. It wasn’t until Mr. Henderson said the cat had been sent for vaccinations that Chloe’s expression softened slightly. Then she asked, “Mr. Henderson, where’s Ryan?” Before Mr. Henderson could reply, Mrs. Thompson spoke from the stairs: “Ryan has left the Thompson estate.” Chloe looked confused: “Mom, what do you mean?!” Mrs. Thompson usually had strong opinions about me and often taunted me; it was commonplace. Chloe was about to say more, but her gaze shifted to the gift box in Mr. Henderson’s hand. Mr. Henderson handed the gift box to Chloe: “Master Ryan asked me to give this to you.” Chloe saw the familiar gift box, a flicker of hesitation in her eyes. She remembered this was the box she’d used the first time she gave Ryan a gift. She hadn’t expected him to keep it for so long. Dylan, seeing the unusual look in her eyes, scoffed, “That box looks so old. Did Ryan just find some broken box to try and gross you out? Chloe, don’t even look at it.” “What good thing could possibly be in such a piece of junk? Ryan is probably just trying to play a trick on you. You’ll regret opening it.” The next second, Chloe opened it right in front of them. When she saw what was inside, her face instantly turned ashen. Everyone looked on in shock.

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When I was eight months pregnant, my husband, Daniel, insisted on giving my childhood sweetheart, Ashley, a child to fulfill her wish of becoming a mother, completely disregarding my objections. I was so enraged that my water broke, and I started bleeding. I frantically called Daniel eighteen times, but he didn’t pick up a single call. By the time I was rushed to the hospital, it was too late; I lost the baby. Turning around, I saw Ashley flaunting her ultrasound results on SnapChat. Afterward, Daniel calmly said, “The baby was gone because it wasn’t meant to be. Why take your anger out on Ashley, who’s already sick? Once Ashley’s child is born, we can just have another one.” Everyone thought I was hopelessly devoted to my husband, convinced I’d swallow my pain as always. But this time, I decisively signed the divorce papers and bought a plane ticket to leave the country. I saw Daniel again two years later at an alumni gathering. The moment he walked into the private room, he shoved a two-year-old child into my arms, a smug look on his face. “Chloe, you’ve been throwing a tantrum for two years. Isn’t it time you cooled off? If you apologize to me in front of everyone, I might even let Ethan call you ‘Mom’!” The others chuckled, covering their mouths, saying I’d scored big by becoming a mom the easy way. I, however, held up my left hand, flashing the wedding ring on my finger. “I have my own child and my own husband, so I don’t need to be anyone’s charity case!”

The moment I finished speaking, everyone in the private room froze, their eyes wide with shock. Then, a roar of laughter erupted. “Oh, come on, Chloe! Everyone knows you loved Daniel with your life! When Daniel had kidney failure, you gave him one of your own kidneys! Would someone like you really marry someone else?” “Seriously, can you at least think before you speak when you’re saying things out of spite?” I scoffed internally at their chatter. It wasn was no wonder they were shocked; I truly did love Daniel back then. After he was diagnosed with kidney failure, I didn’t hesitate to donate a kidney to him. To this day, my left kidney aches whenever it’s cloudy or rainy. I’d always give him the sweetest part of my watermelon, and because he hated dragon fruit seeds, I’d pick out every single one with a toothpick. Because I loved him, I even tolerated him going on dates with Ashley, my childhood sweetheart, again and again. I tolerated him braiding Ashley’s hair right in front of me, gently wiping her mouth. As long as he came home, as long as he still remembered me, his wife, that was enough. Everyone knew I was hopelessly devoted, and they all instinctively assumed I was just talking out of anger. Snapping back to reality, Ashley, who was standing nearby, picked up a bottle of wine from the table and approached me. She said, subtly, “Chloe, I know you’re still upset about what happened two years ago.” “It’s all my fault. If I hadn’t been diagnosed with a terminal illness, Daniel wouldn’t have tried to have a child with me to fulfill my dying wish. If not for that, you wouldn’t have had that severe bleeding and lost your baby.” “Since everyone’s here today, I’ll punish myself with a bottle as a public apology!” She grabbed the bottle and gulped it down, the harsh alcohol making her cough violently. Daniel couldn’t sit still. He handed Ethan to a colleague and rushed forward, snatching the bottle from her. He looked angry and heartbroken. “Ashley, are you crazy? How dare you drink so much? Even though your condition has been stable these past few years, you’re still a patient!” After comforting Ashley, Daniel shot me a haughty glance. His voice was cold. “Chloe, you’ve been throwing a tantrum for two years. That’s enough!” “Ashley and I only did IVF; there was no physical intimacy. You’re still holding a grudge over something so minor after all this time. Is it really worth it?” Everyone started murmuring. “Chloe is so stubborn. Honestly, she scored big by getting a kid for free!” “Daniel has been looking for her all these years. She left for two years, and he searched for two years. It’s time to move on from the past.” So, leaving me, eight months pregnant, to go have a child with Ashley was just a “minor thing” in Daniel’s eyes? But what surprised me was that Daniel had actually been looking for me? What did he want? Lost in thought, I heard Daniel continue, self-importantly, “Alright, Chloe, Ethan needs someone to take care of him right now. Since you’re back, you can take care of him from now on. Even though Ethan isn’t your biological child, you’re his nominal mother, and you should be responsible for him.” I actually laughed. Daniel wanted me to be a nanny? But I was no longer the Chloe he could manipulate so easily two years ago. Ever since he abandoned me and our unborn child to go have a baby with Ashley, my heart died for him. I decisively moved abroad. And I wasn’t just talking out of anger earlier; I really was married with a child. After moving abroad, I found a new job and soon met my husband, Julian. He helped me through that dark period. Not long after, we got married and had an adorable son. Just thinking about my husband and son filled my heart with warmth. Snapping back to reality, I coldly refused, “No, thanks. I have my own child to take care of. As for your Ethan, let his biological mother take care of him.” Hearing that, Ashley’s eyes immediately reddened. “Chloe, I know you resent me for causing you to lose your baby, which is why you refuse to take care of my child.” “I want to take care of Ethan myself, but my body just won’t allow it…” “It’s because I trust you that I’m entrusting my child to you. Ethan is very well-behaved; he doesn’t cry or fuss, so he won’t be much trouble. I’m begging you, please take pity on a mother like me and take care of Ethan…” Ashley made a show of trying to kneel down before me. Daniel quickly helped her up and comforted her. Then he turned and shot me a cold glare. “It’s an honor for you to take care of Ethan. Don’t be ungrateful!” His gaze landed on my clothes, and Daniel sneered. “Chloe, you must not have had it easy these past two years abroad, huh? You didn’t even bother to wear decent clothes to the alumni gathering.” “If you take good care of Ethan, I can give you ten thousand a month in pocket money. That’s a lot more than you’d make working.” Ashley, acting like the lady of the house, added, “Yes, if you take good care of Ethan, Daniel and I won’t treat you badly. With us, you at least won’t be wearing no-name brands.” It was only then that everyone noticed I was wearing casual clothes. Instantly, snickers filled the room. “How did Chloe fall so low? She doesn’t even have decent clothes!” “If only she knew this would happen, why did she act so stubbornly back then? I heard Daniel’s company boomed right after she left. If she hadn’t left the country in a fit of pique, she’d be living a life of luxury right now.” I simply smirked coldly. They had no idea. I wasn’t wearing no-name brands; my outfit was custom-made by a famous designer, silk fabric, each piece costing hundreds of thousands. Seeing me smile, Daniel assumed I had agreed to take care of Ethan. He pulled out his phone, ready to transfer money to me. “I’ll transfer ten thousand to you. Go buy some nice clothes later, so Ethan doesn’t pick up your cheapness.” But as soon as he sent the message, he received a stark red exclamation mark!

Daniel’s brows furrowed, and his face turned grim. “Chloe, you deleted me?!” I found it amusing. I had blocked and deleted him two years ago. He was just realizing it now? Daniel’s face flushed with embarrassment. He demanded I add him back immediately. I replied coldly, “Just an ex-husband. Why would I add him back?” “Besides, my husband doesn’t allow me to randomly add other men. He gets jealous.” Seeing me repeatedly refuse to give him face, Daniel instantly grew angry. “Chloe, have you acted enough? I’ve given you a way out. If you insist on being stubborn, we’ll get a divorce!” In the past, Daniel would threaten divorce whenever things didn’t go his way, forcing me to yield. He thought he could manipulate me as always this time. I merely chuckled coldly. “Daniel, have you forgotten? We already got divorced two years ago.” At that, the entire room fell silent. Daniel also froze for a moment. “What are you talking about?” Then, as if something clicked, he sneered, “I get it now. This is your trick, playing hard to get, isn’t it? You’ve certainly grown a lot more cunning in two years!” I rolled my eyes, exasperated. “Daniel, didn’t you see the letter I left you two years ago?” Daniel looked confused. “What letter?” Before I left the country, I had left Daniel a letter. Inside the envelope, there wasn’t just my wedding ring, but also a signed divorce agreement. I had made him sign that divorce agreement the day he disregarded my pleas and insisted on having a child with Ashley. He had always been dismissive towards me, signing it without even looking. He probably hadn’t properly read the contents of the envelope two years ago. That’s why he didn’t know we were already divorced and thought I was just throwing a tantrum. Thinking about it, I scoffed, then pulled out the other identical copy of the divorce agreement from back then, thrusting it in front of Daniel. “Daniel, the letter I wrote you back then contained the signed divorce agreement. I made two copies of the divorce agreement, and this is the other one. Look closely. We’re already divorced.” Daniel’s face darkened further. He was about to say the divorce agreement was fake, but when he saw his own signature clearly on it, he froze. “How can this be? I clearly never signed…” “No, you did. Do you remember the document I handed you the day you moved out?” With my reminder, Daniel belatedly realized that what I had made him sign that day was the divorce agreement. His face turned ashen. Everyone else was surprised too. “Chloe actually filed for divorce? Did she finally wake up from being hopelessly devoted?” “If they’re divorced, why is she back? I think she still can’t let go of Daniel.” Hearing that, Daniel raised his chin, confident that I still harbored feelings for him. Little did he know, my return to the country was mainly to accompany my husband and son. Julian happened to be coming back for a business gala, and my son wanted to visit the water park during his long weekend. As soon as I returned, I received an invitation to the alumni gathering, so I simply came along. I was about to shatter Daniel’s delusion when his phone rang. It was his assistant. “Mr. Peterson, we just received news that Mr. Knight of Knight Industries is returning with his wife and child this time. They’ll also be attending the business gala tonight. The chairman asked us to add an extra seat and treat them exceptionally well.” “The chairman specifically emphasized to treat Mr. Knight’s wife especially well. After all, Mr. Knight is famously devoted to his wife, and as long as we keep her happy, a partnership is guaranteed.” Only then did I realize that Daniel’s company was hosting this business gala. After Daniel hung up, everyone started showering him with flattery. “Daniel, Knight Industries is a leading corporate giant! Your company actually managed to get a deal with Knight Industries? Your future is limitless!” “I heard all the big shots in the business world will be at this gala. Can you help us old classmates make some introductions?” Daniel glanced at me with a triumphant look, condescendingly saying, “Chloe, are you regretting divorcing me impulsively back then?” “If you agree to take care of Ethan, I can consider remarrying you…” I scoffed internally. Julian’s company, Knight Industries, was my husband’s company. And I was the “Mr. Knight’s wife” they wanted to butter up. Before Daniel could finish, I coldly cut him off, “Knight Industries isn’t interested in your company.” Ashley, who had been silent for a while, shot me a disdainful glance. “How would you know?” I said, enunciating each word, “Because I am Mr. Knight’s wife.” At that, everyone thought I had lost my mind and stared at me like I was an idiot. Ashley even let out a scoff. “If you’re Mr. Knight’s wife, then I’m Mr. Knight’s mother!” “Everyone knows Mr. Knight dotes on his wife. He even spent three hundred million on a pink diamond bracelet for her in a lavish, public display of affection! Mr. Knight’s wife is incredibly precious, worth hundreds of millions. How could a commoner like you impersonate her?” “Look at you! What about you even remotely resembles Mr. Knight’s wife?” I, however, unhurriedly rolled up my sleeve, revealing the pink diamond bracelet on my wrist. “Are you talking about this bracelet?”

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After I donated a kidney to the man Chloe truly loved, my girlfriend, who had given me the silent treatment for a month, finally agreed to make up. She even arranged a get-together with drinks as a reward. Her best friend, Brittany, chuckled, “Chloe, you really know how to play your cards. Liam isn’t just obedient, he’s totally devoted to you. Such a good man, are you really going to let him go and marry Julian instead?” Chloe scoffed, a cold sneer on her face. “He’s nothing but a placeholder. The only reason I haven’t gotten bored all these years is because of his face—it’s a near-perfect double for Julian’s.” Their eyes met, and they shared a knowing smile. “Then why not have Liam be a groomsman at the wedding? At least it wouldn’t be a total waste of him following you for eight years.” Chloe let out a dismissive laugh. “A joke! What’s his status? Does he really think he’s fit to stand next to Julian?” “This little gathering is just a pat on the back for helping Julian out. Consider it a thank you for all his devotion to me over the years.” I’d heard Chloe’s entire monologue right outside the door. When I calmly pushed it open, I didn’t argue. She had no idea. Today was the last day I was *her* placeholder. Tomorrow, the girl I’d always loved was coming back.

The moment I stepped inside, everyone’s eyes locked on me. A shared look of disdain flickered across their faces. I took it all in, though I plastered on a clueless expression as I handed Chloe the dessert she’d specifically asked for. The next second, her face hardened, and her words sent the room’s atmosphere plunging to freezing point: “Liam, the ice cream’s completely melted. You bring it to me now? Are you intentionally trying to gross me out?” Before her words even finished, the dessert—which I’d waited an hour in line for and walked two miles to get her—was violently slammed into the trash can. I glanced down. The ice cream was barely soft, it hadn’t melted enough to affect the taste at all. Brittany, Chloe’s best friend, saw this and handed me a drink, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “You clearly don’t care much about our dear Chloe, do you? Why don’t you chug three glasses as a penalty to prove your sincerity?” Others chimed in, their faces twisted into mocking grins. I touched the bandage wrapped around my lower back, hesitated for a moment, then took the glass and downed it in one go. As soon as I set the glass down, Brittany handed me another one, brimming full. I frowned instantly, not reaching for it. That first glass had pushed my body to its limit. If I drank any more, something serious would happen. I looked at Chloe, hoping she’d explain my situation. But she just watched, a cold mask on her face, with no intention of speaking up for me. Brittany saw my hesitation and sneered, “Chloe, looks like your boyfriend isn’t all that devoted after all, is he? Just two measly drinks, and he’s dragging his feet.” Chloe shot me a cold, displeased glare, then stepped forward and slapped me across the face. “Liam, what’s your problem today? Usually, you can hold your liquor just fine!” “And here I was, so kind as to throw a party to reward you! Is this how you treat me? You won’t even drink three glasses for me!” At her words, I turned my head, my eyes darkening. I’d thought that after I’d sacrificed a kidney, she’d change her usual bossy attitude toward me. But no, it only got worse. She completely forgot I couldn’t drink now. I met her gaze, gently reminding her, “Chloe, my kidney incision hasn’t healed. Don’t you know I can’t drink?” Her eyes flickered with surprise, but it quickly vanished in the dim light of the room. Then she said indifferently, “Can’t drink just because you donated a kidney? Do you think everyone in this room is stupid? If you want to avoid drinking, find a better excuse.” Brittany chimed in sarcastically, “Exactly! I see everyone else drinking just fine. Why can’t you? Or are you just refusing on purpose? All this liquor on the table, it’s Chloe’s heartfelt gesture for you.” As she spoke, a full table of drinks appeared, nearly a hundred glasses. Seeing the cold indifference on her face, with no thought for my well-being, I immediately decided to turn and leave. But Chloe’s clique wasn’t about to let me walk away. They ordered someone to hold me down and force-fed me the liquor. The strong alcohol burned my throat and chest, a tearing, agonizing pain. I frantically looked to Chloe for help, but she just watched, a detached observer, as if I were a stranger. Just when I thought I was going to be completely ruined by these people, Chloe, who’d been as still as a statue, finally moved. The next second, she walked over and grabbed the glass that was being forced into my mouth. I thought she’d finally had a change of heart, that she was going to stop this absurd charade. Instead, she said coldly, “Hold on a minute, Julian’s calling.” The moment she answered the phone, Chloe became soft and gentle, like a completely different person. “Okay, I’m heading out to get you dessert now. Wait for me.” At that moment, a wave of dizziness washed over my head, and my consciousness began to fade. Just as Chloe hung up, I collapsed right in front of her. Everyone else started to panic. Chloe frowned, glanced at me, then at the two-thirds of untouched drinks on the table, and said with utter disdain: “Don’t mind him. He’s just faking it, trying to get out of drinking.” “I need to go get dessert for Julian. I’m leaving.” Chloe walked out without a backward glance. Brittany then kicked me twice. When I still didn’t react, she finally realized something was wrong and scurried away in a panic. The others, seeing this, also found excuses to slip away. I was left alone, abandoned in the room. Eventually, it was the cleaning lady who called 911 for me. When I woke up, my phone suddenly vibrated with a new message.

It was from Julian. I tapped it open, and there it was: a picture of him and Chloe with their marriage certificate. My fingers clenched. I stared at the photo, frozen, until the screen went dark. All these years Chloe and I had been together, for various reasons, we’d unspokenly avoided any talk of marriage. We’d fallen in love at first sight, our feelings growing rapidly. In our social circles, we were considered the “perfect couple.” We hiked together, camped together, even traveled together. We did everything a typical couple would do. I thought I’d live happily ever after. I just never imagined those days would end so soon. I started noticing her demands becoming stranger, but I indulged her, letting her have her way, not thinking too much of it. At first, she just wanted to control my outfits. I figured she thought my style was bad, so I just let her. Later, she escalated to controlling my preferences, dictating my manners, and even specifically hiring a private coach for me. That’s when I started to suspect something. After a little digging, I learned about Julian. Only then did I understand that everything she’d done for me before was actually for Julian. From that point on, I often felt that when she looked at me, she was looking *through* my eyes, at someone else. For eight long years, we never acknowledged the unspoken truth. Until Julian returned to the country. Once he knew I existed, he pulled out all the stops to impress Chloe. He repeatedly mocked me, saying I was nothing more than his stand-in. Photos like the one I just received? I’d lost count of how many I’d gotten. Chloe pushed the door open, wrinkling her nose as she stepped in, a thermal container in her hand. Her voice was dismissive. “I thought you were dead. Didn’t expect you to have so many lives.” She saw my gaze land on the container in her hand and said coldly, “I spent all afternoon making this chicken soup for Julian. It’s not for you. Besides, you’re awake now, so you don’t need it anyway.” She paused, her eyes darkening, then forced a sweet smile. “Since you’re fine, then the cake for Julian’s birthday tomorrow is on you. Don’t disappoint me again.” Before I could answer, she walked out, carrying the thermal container. She’d always been like that with me. I’d grown used to it over the years. She’d once hired a private pastry chef to teach me, wanting me to be more like Julian. I’d picked up the basics. But of all the elaborate desserts I’d made for her, not once was she satisfied. She even took a cake I’d spent an entire day on and fed it to a dog. She’d coldly glanced at the mess on the floor and declared without shame, “Liam, you’re truly useless. You can’t even handle such a small thing. You really can’t even hold a candle to Julian.” Thinking of this, I called out to her, “Don’t you dislike the cakes I make?” She turned to face me, her voice impatient. “If Julian hadn’t specifically asked you to make it, do you think you’d even have the chance?” She was right. If it weren’t for Julian, she’d probably make it herself, or at the very least, order a custom one. There’s no way it would fall to me. Before I could open my mouth again, all that was left was the sound of the door slamming shut. Smelling the lingering scent of chicken soup that didn’t belong in my hospital room, I suddenly remembered Julian’s room was just one floor above mine. One floor away, he was in a luxurious VIP suite with full amenities and gourmet recovery meals. He certainly didn’t need Chloe’s measly bowl of chicken soup. And me, her placeholder? The moment I was pushed out of the operating room, Chloe had intended to leave me to recover on a gurney in the hallway. It was only after my surgeon strongly insisted, and she got annoyed, that she grudgingly got me the cheapest, cramped room, barely a yard from the bathroom, where the constant stench assaulted my senses. Just then, a nurse pushed the door open and said coldly, “Liam, bed 12? Someone’s handled your discharge papers. Please pack up and leave quickly. Someone will be here to sanitize the room in half an hour.” I froze, looking up at my unfinished IV drip. I hadn’t expected Chloe to act so fast, unable to wait even an afternoon. I ripped out my IV line, enduring the discomfort in my body, quickly packed my meager belongings, and prepared to leave the hospital. The moment I stepped out of the hospital, I received a demanding message from Chloe: “Go to the bakery immediately. I’ve already arranged for the cake ingredients to be prepared. Text me when it’s done.” I stopped, read the message, then tapped my screen and calmly deleted it. This cake? Consider it my wedding gift to them. I’d just hung up the phone with the artisan bakery when a SnapChat message popped up. I assumed it was Julian again, flaunting something Chloe had done for him, and I was about to block him. The next second, my top SnapChat conversation vibrated with a new message: “I land tonight. Can you pick me up?” Seeing the familiar tone of voice, I was a little stunned. I pinched myself hard, thinking I was seeing things. I only had two pinned conversations on SnapChat: Chloe’s, and that of the girl I’d always loved since my youth. In the eight years I’d been with Chloe, she never spoke to me with such patience. In my memory, only she spoke to me like that. But didn’t she say she was moving abroad permanently and would never come back? If she hadn’t made that decision back then, things wouldn’t be like this between us now. After all, I’d confessed my feelings to her. I stared at the message for a long time, composing myself before quietly replying with a single word: “Okay.”

After putting my phone away, I grabbed the flowers and headed straight to the airport, completely forgetting everything Chloe had told me to do. It wasn’t until later that night, when Chloe hadn’t received the cake I was supposed to make and her meticulously planned birthday party for Julian was ruined, that she blamed it all on me. She stormed in, Julian following behind her. She kicked the door open, slamming it against the wall, and screamed: “Liam, how many times is this? What new stunt are you pulling now? Where’s the cake I told you to make?!” I glanced at the door, still rattling from her kick, and replied calmly with two words: “I forgot.” Chloe saw my demeanor and instantly erupted. The thought that Julian had been humiliated because I hadn’t shown up with the cake made her furious. She stepped forward and slapped me twice, yelling: “Do you have any idea how much you embarrassed Julian? Everyone was whispering and pointing at him! And here he was, still concerned about your feelings, telling me not to get mad at you!” “Julian is such a good person, why would you treat him like this?!” “I’m giving you half an hour. You *will* make a cake to apologize, or I swear, I’m not done with you!” With that, she slammed the door shut and left. Watching her defiant back, I couldn’t help but think of my own birthdays. She’d never been this invested. I never got the special treatment a birthday person deserves. Instead, I had to bake *her* a cake, and if it wasn’t to her liking, I’d be punished with standing all night. I let out a bitter laugh. As I walked out of the room, I saw her sitting in the living room, meticulously peeling an orange for Julian, carefully removing every bit of pith before handing it to him. Julian saw me but didn’t make a sound. Instead, he smirked triumphantly as he took the orange from Chloe and ate it. “Chloe, let’s set our wedding for three days from now, okay?” Julian asked gently, but his eyes were fixed on me, full of triumph. Chloe, her back to me, said dotingly, “Okay, whatever you say.” Hearing this, his grin widened, and he asked again: “How about we invite Liam to our wedding? What do you think?” This time Chloe didn’t answer immediately. Julian saw the hesitation on her face. He instantly pouted, sounding wronged. “I just want his blessing. That way our wedding will be perfect, and you always said you’d give me a perfect wedding, didn’t you?” Chloe fell silent at his words. Then, remembering something, she nodded in agreement. Julian’s lips curved into a smirk, and he looked at me. “Liam, did you hear that? Chloe and I sincerely invite you to our wedding.” At his words, Chloe turned her cold face back to me. Her eyes seemed to freeze for a moment when she saw me, then she scoffed. “Since you heard it, I won’t repeat myself. Be there on time, don’t make us a laughingstock again.” I clenched my fists, meeting Chloe’s indifferent gaze. Eight years of my devotion, and in the end, I didn’t even get a formal breakup. I gave a self-deprecating laugh, then nodded. On the day of the wedding, I showed up dressed to the nines. The moment the newlyweds appeared, they became the center of attention. Guests lavished them with praise, calling them a match made in heaven. Chloe accepted it all with a radiant smile, but when her eyes landed on me, that smile vanished instantly. Chloe’s face turned sour, and she frowned, accusing me, “Liam, are you trying to steal Julian’s spotlight by dressing like that? Don’t forget, today is Julian’s and my wedding. Julian is the groom!” “I knew this would happen; I shouldn’t have agreed to let you come! I thought you’d know your place, but I never imagined you’d stoop to such lengths just to cause drama!” At her words, murmurs rippled through the guests. Those who didn’t know me accused me of being shameless. Those who did vowed to kick me out. Julian, however, wasn’t angry. He even generously spoke up for me, “Chloe, if he wants to be my groomsman, then let’s let him. It’s a way of thanking him for taking care of you all these years, and it justifies his outfit today.” With that, Julian shot me a provocative look. Chloe frowned, about to argue, but then heard the whispers around her and reluctantly gave in. She checked her watch and said with extreme reluctance, “Aren’t you going to get ready? Is this where you’re supposed to be standing?!” A staff member came forward to escort me away. Before I’d taken two steps, Julian’s voice stopped them from behind: “Wait. His outfit is actually quite good. How about we have him deliver our wedding rings later?” At his words, my body stiffened. Deliver the wedding rings. That’s what the ring bearer does. Was he trying to make me watch them exchange vows, then watch Chloe marry him with my own eyes? I glanced at Chloe. She said nothing, a silent agreement. The ceremony began quickly. Watching Chloe on stage, touched to tears by Julian’s words, I couldn’t help but sneer. The stage was set. It was time for the main act. Chloe, let’s see how long you can keep that smile. The next second, the officiant excitedly announced, “Now, let’s give a big round of applause for our special guest who will present the wedding rings to the happy couple…” A thunderous applause erupted. The couple on stage smiled, filled with joy, waiting for me to bring them their rings. I smirked, took the gift box from the staff member, and slowly walked forward. I heard the whispers around me, but with each step, I moved further away from the altar. Moments later, I turned and knelt on one knee in front of a slender, unfamiliar woman. The entire hall gasped in shock. Chloe, realizing what she was seeing, instantly turned pale, losing her composure as she shrieked: “Liam, do you know what you’re doing?!”

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To leave an heir for my childhood friend, who was terminally ill, my three-month pregnant wife ignored my pleas. She went ahead with the surgery, taking out our baby, just to make room for his. Afterward, she just said blandly: “Julian doesn’t have much time left. Why argue with a sick man? I promise you, once I’ve had Julian’s baby, we can have another one together.” Everyone thought I was completely infatuated with my wife, convinced I wouldn’t refuse, that I’d eagerly step up and be a total doormat. But this time, I decisively signed the divorce papers. The very next day, I bought a plane ticket and left the country. I saw my ex-wife again two years later at a high school reunion. The moment I walked into the private room, she shoved her two-year-old child into my arms, a haughty look on her face. “Liam, you’ve been throwing a tantrum for two years, aren’t you over it yet? Just apologize to me publicly, and I might give you a chance to take care of our mother and child!” Everyone stifled their laughter, saying I’d hit the jackpot, a “two for one deal.” But I just casually flashed the wedding ring on my left hand. “No thanks. I already have a wife and kid of my own. No need to be a pathetic sap!”

The moment the words left my mouth, everyone in the room froze, their shocked gazes fixed on me, before erupting into snickers. “Oh, come on, Liam! Who doesn’t know you loved Scarlett more than life itself? When Scarlett had kidney failure, you gave her one of your own kidneys! Would someone like you really marry someone else?” “Exactly! Can’t you think before you speak? That’s so ridiculous, who’d believe it?” I sneered inwardly at their chatter. No wonder they were shocked; I *had* loved Scarlett desperately once. When she was diagnosed with kidney failure, I didn’t hesitate, giving her one of my kidneys. Now, every time it rains, my left side aches with a dull, constant throb. I always gave her the sweetest part of the watermelon, and knowing she didn’t eat dragon fruit seeds, I’d meticulously pick out every single one with a toothpick. Because I loved her, I even tolerated her going on dates with my childhood friend, Julian, again and again. I tolerated her tying Julian’s tie right in front of me, gently wiping his mouth. As long as she came home, as long as she still remembered me, her husband, that was enough. Everyone knew I was blindly devoted, and they all instinctively assumed I was just talking out of anger earlier. Coming back to reality, Julian, who had been quiet, picked up a bottle of wine from the table and came over to me, saying casually, “Liam, I know you’re still upset about what happened two years ago. It’s all my fault. If I hadn’t been diagnosed with a terminal illness, Scarlett wouldn’t have had to get rid of your baby just to leave an heir for me. Since everyone’s here today, I’ll down this bottle as a public apology to you!” He chugged the bottle, the burning alcohol making him cough repeatedly. Scarlett immediately couldn’t sit still. She handed her child to a colleague nearby, rushed forward, snatched the bottle, and said, angry and heartbroken, “Julian, are you crazy, daring to drink this much? Even if your condition has been under control all these years, you’re still a patient!” After comforting Julian, Scarlett shot me a haughty glance and said coldly, “Liam, you’ve been throwing a tantrum for two years, that’s enough! Julian and I just did IVF; we didn’t actually have sex. You’re still being petty about such a small thing, after all this time? Is it really necessary?” Everyone started murmuring. “Liam’s so stubborn! It’s a two for one deal, he actually came out ahead!” “Plus, Scarlett’s been looking for him all these years. He left for two years, and she looked for him for two years. It’s time to move on from the past.” So, taking out our baby to have Julian’s was just a “small thing” in Scarlett’s eyes? But what surprised me was that Scarlett had actually been looking for me? Why would she be looking for me? Lost in thought, I heard Scarlett continue, talking to herself, “Alright, Liam. Little Julian is at an age where he needs a lot of care. Since you’re back, you can take care of him from now on. Even though he’s not your biological son, you’re his nominal father, and you should be responsible for him.” I actually laughed. Two years later, Scarlett was still high and mighty, ordering me around as if it were her right. But I wasn’t the Liam she could manipulate so easily anymore. Ever since Scarlett got rid of our baby two years ago, my heart died for her, and I decisively left the country. And what I said earlier wasn’t out of anger; I truly was married with a child. After I left, I found a new job. Not long after, I met my wife, Vivian. She helped me through that dark period. Soon, we got married and even had a beautiful daughter. Just thinking about my wife and daughter, a wave of warmth washed over me. Snapping back to reality, I coldly refused, “No thanks. I have my own child to take care of. As for your ‘Little Julian,’ let his biological dad take care of him.” Hearing that, Julian’s eyes welled up. “Liam, I know you resent me for causing your child to be aborted, which is why you won’t take care of mine. I want to raise Little Julian myself, but my body won’t allow it… I’m trusting you, that’s why I’m asking you to take care of him. Little Julian is very well-behaved; he doesn’t cry or fuss, so he won’t be too much trouble. Please, I’m begging you, take pity on me, a father, and take care of Little Julian…” Julian made a show of kneeling towards me. Scarlett quickly helped him up and comforted him. Then she turned, giving me a cold glance. “Many people would beg to take care of Little Julian, but I wouldn’t let them. It’s an honor for you to take care of him; don’t be ungrateful!” Her gaze landed on my clothes, and Scarlett scoffed. “Liam, you must not have had it easy these past two years abroad, huh? You didn’t even bother to wear decent clothes to a class reunion. At this point, don’t be so snobby when you’re broke. If you take good care of Little Julian, I can give you ten thousand a month in spending money. That’s way more than you’d make working a regular job.” Julian, acting like the man of the house, added, “That’s right. You take good care of Little Julian, and Scarlett and I won’t treat you badly. With us, you won’t have to wear cheap knock-offs at least.” It was then that everyone noticed my casual attire. Instantly, mockery erupted. “How did Liam fall so low? He doesn’t even have decent clothes!” “If only he’d known this would happen. I heard Scarlett’s company soared after he left. If he hadn’t left the country out of spite, he’d be living a life of leisure now.” I just smirked. They had no idea. The clothes I was wearing weren’t cheap knock-offs. They were custom-made by a master designer, pure silk, worth hundreds of thousands. Seeing me smile, Scarlett thought I’d agreed to take care of Little Julian. She pulled out her phone, ready to transfer money to me. “Here’s ten thousand. Go buy some decent clothes later, so our Little Julian doesn’t catch your cheapness.” But as soon as she sent the message, she received a glaring red exclamation mark!

Scarlett’s eyes widened. “Liam, you blocked me?!” I found it amusing. I had already blocked and deleted her two years ago. Was she just realizing it now? Scarlett’s pride took a hit. She told me to add her back right away. But I said coldly, “Just an ex-wife, what’s there to add? Besides, my wife doesn’t let me add other women. She gets jealous.” Seeing me repeatedly refuse to give her face, Scarlett finally got angry. “Liam, are you done acting? I’ve given you an out. If you insist on making a scene, we’ll get a divorce!” In the past, Scarlett would threaten me with divorce whenever she was slightly displeased, forcing me to give in. She thought she could manipulate me as always this time. But I just sneered. “Scarlett, did you forget? We already got divorced two years ago.” At that, the entire room fell silent. Scarlett was stunned for a moment. “Divorce? When did we get divorced?” Then, as if something clicked, she sneered, “I know! This is your little game, isn’t it? Playing hard to get? You’ve certainly grown more cunning in two years!” I rolled my eyes in exasperation. “Scarlett, didn’t you see the letter I left you two years ago?” Scarlett looked confused. “What letter?” Before I left the country, I’d left Scarlett a letter. Inside the envelope, there wasn’t just the wedding ring I’d taken off, but also a signed divorce agreement. I’d made her sign that divorce agreement the day she insisted on getting rid of our baby, despite my pleas. She’d always been dismissive of me, signing without even looking. She probably hadn’t bothered to properly check the contents of the envelope two years ago. That’s why she didn’t know we were already divorced and thought I was just throwing a tantrum. Thinking of this, I scoffed, then pulled out my copy of the divorce agreement, which had been made in duplicate, and shoved it in front of Scarlett. “Scarlett, the envelope I left you back then contained the signed divorce agreement. I made two identical copies; this is the other one. Look closely. We’re already divorced.” Scarlett’s beautiful eyes widened. She was about to say the divorce agreement was fake, but when she saw her own signature clearly on it, she froze. “This… this really is my handwriting? How? I clearly never signed…” “No, you did sign. Remember the document I handed you that day you scheduled your abortion procedure?” My reminder made Scarlett finally realize that what I’d had her sign that day was the divorce agreement. Her face turned ashen. Everyone else was surprised too. “Liam really filed for divorce? His infatuation finally wore off?” “If they’re divorced, why is he back? I bet he still can’t let go of Scarlett.” Hearing that, Scarlett lifted her chin, confidently believing I still had feelings for her. Little did she know, my main reason for returning to the country was to accompany my wife and daughter. Vivian was coming back for a business gala, and our daughter wanted to visit Adventureland during her vacation. I just happened to receive the reunion invitation right after we arrived, so I decided to drop by. I was about to shatter Scarlett’s fantasy when her phone rang. It was her assistant. “Ms. Scarlett, we just got word that Ms. Vivian from the Sterling Group is back in the country with her husband and child. They’ll also be attending the business gala tonight. The board wants us to add a seat and make sure they’re well taken care of. The board specifically emphasized treating Ms. Vivian’s husband exceptionally well, as Ms. Vivian is fiercely protective of her husband. If we keep him happy, future collaborations will be guaranteed.” I only then realized that the host of this business gala was Scarlett’s company. After Scarlett hung up, everyone started fawning over her. “Scarlett, the Sterling Group is a leading national corporation! Your company actually managed to partner with them; your future is limitless!” “I heard all the big names in business will be at this gala. Can you help us old classmates make some connections?” Scarlett cast a triumphant, condescending glance at me. “Liam, are you regretting divorcing me out of spite now? If you agree to take care of Little Julian, I might consider remarrying you…” I sneered inwardly. The Sterling Group? That was my wife’s company. And I was the husband they wanted to win over. Without waiting for Scarlett to finish, I cut her off coldly, “The Sterling Group wouldn’t even *look* at your company.” Julian, who hadn’t spoken for a while, scoffed and shot me a disdainful look. “How would *you* know?” I articulated each word clearly, “Because I *am* Ms. Vivian’s husband.” At that, everyone thought I’d lost my mind, staring at me like I was an idiot. Julian even burst out laughing. “If you’re Ms. Vivian’s husband, then I’m her father! Who doesn’t know Ms. Vivian adores her husband? She once publicly splashed out three hundred million to buy him a watch! Ms. Vivian’s husband is incredibly valuable, worth hundreds of millions. How could a hick like you impersonate him?” “Look at yourself! What part of you is anything like Ms. Vivian’s husband?” I leisurely rolled up my sleeve, revealing the diamond-encrusted gold watch on my wrist. “Are you talking about *this* watch?”

Everyone was stunned. “The news about Ms. Vivian making headlines buying that watch was everywhere! That watch looks exactly like the one Liam’s wearing!” “So… Liam really is Ms. Vivian’s husband?” Julian’s eyes flashed with jealousy and malice when he saw the watch on my wrist. The next second, he took advantage of my distraction, yanked off my watch, and said sarcastically, “Liam, how dare you try to fool everyone with a fake watch! How could you impersonate Ms. Vivian’s husband?” “Don’t get me wrong, this fake is pretty good, but a fake is always a fake. It can’t be the real thing. Scarlett is about to partner with Ms. Vivian. Are you trying to ruin Scarlett by impersonating Ms. Vivian’s husband right now?” I glared at him coldly. “Who told you this watch is fake? This watch is the real deal! Give it back!” But Julian refused, deliberately tucking the watch into his pocket. I stepped forward to grab it back, but he stumbled to the ground, his eyes red as he looked at me. “Liam, I can’t believe you hate me so much. Not only did you push me, but to get back at me, you’re dragging Scarlett down too. Since that’s how it is, I’ll just leave with Little Julian, so we don’t bother you…” Julian started whining, trying to leave. Two years, and he was still using the same old playbook. And Scarlett fell for it every time. This time, she protected him as always, snapping at me. “That’s enough, Liam! Julian is a patient; are you trying to kill him?” “You were in the wrong first! You impersonated Ms. Vivian’s husband; are you trying to ruin our company’s partnership? Two years, and you’ve become so malicious!” Meeting Julian’s challenging gaze, I scoffed inwardly. He wasn’t sick at all; his terminal illness was fake, and his medical records were forged. I had told Scarlett before, but she didn’t believe me, accusing me of making baseless accusations instead. Even now, she still didn’t believe me. I couldn’t be bothered to argue, assuming Scarlett would continue to lash out at me as in the past. But she sighed helplessly. “Alright, Julian seems to like this watch, so just give it to him as an apology. Let’s drop this whole thing. I’ll pretend I didn’t hear anything earlier.” That watch was a special gift from Vivian. Give it away? No way. I snatched the watch back, saying coldly, “This is a gift from my wife. You have no right to touch it!” The sharp watch strap cut Scarlett’s finger, drawing blood. Seeing I wouldn’t back down, Scarlett’s face darkened. “Liam, it’s just a cheap watch. If it weren’t for me giving you an out, do you really think we’d care about it?” “Julian, it’s just a watch! I’ll buy you a more expensive, better one, and make *some people* regret it!” I ignored them, turning and leaving the private room. Afterward, I went back to the hotel where we were staying to rest. In the evening, I freshened up and headed to the business gala. Before leaving, Vivian sent me a message, telling me that Adventureland’s show had just ended, and she was bringing Ellie over. She told me to go in first and wait for them. Knowing my wife and daughter liked cake, I took a plate of mini cakes, planning to find a seat and wait for them. The moment I turned, I ran into Scarlett and Julian, both dressed elegantly for the event. Seeing me, Scarlett’s eyes flashed with disdain. “What are you doing here? What, did you come to beg me to remarry you? You were so tough earlier; turns out you’re just talk!” Seeing me holding a plate of cake, Julian scoffed, “Liam, you’re not a server here, are you? I heard servers here only make four thousand. That’s not even as fast as taking care of our Little Julian!” Scarlett, too, wore a haughty expression. “Liam, if you beg me, I might make an exception and let you take care of Little Julian, for old times’ sake.” I said calmly, “Don’t misunderstand. I’m not a server. I’m here to wait for my wife and daughter.” Julian, however, looked as if he’d heard the funniest joke in the world. “Liam, only Ms. Vivian is bringing her child to this gala today. You’re not going to try and say you’re Ms. Vivian’s husband again, are you?” “But I am.” Hearing me say that, Julian crossed his arms and sneered. “Liam, you’re addicted to lying! How dare you talk nonsense and try to claim connections at such an important event? And you’re even wearing that fake watch!” “If Ms. Vivian and her husband found out about this, we’d all be in serious trouble!” Before I could react, Julian rushed forward, ripped the watch off my wrist, and smashed it hard on the ground. The sharp watch strap cut my wrist, drawing bright red blood. Before I could even cry out in pain, Julian shoved me to the ground, grabbed a nearby cake plate, and smashed it onto my face, snarling, “I’ll teach you a lesson for Ms. Vivian, you imposter!” Cake splattered all over my face, the sticky cream clogging my nostrils, nearly suffocating me. I reached up to wipe away the cream, but Julian pressed his hard leather shoe heel onto my hand, grinding it repeatedly. Excruciating pain shot through my entire body. I could almost hear my bones shattering. When the people in the hall realized I was an imposter, they all started laughing at me. Scarlett just watched, her expression cold. At that moment, someone in the crowd shouted, “Ms. Vivian’s here!” Everyone immediately looked towards the entrance. I waved my arms, trying to get Vivian’s attention. But Scarlett grabbed my hand and whispered, “Liam, stay put! I know you deliberately chased me here because you’re jealous. If you don’t cause trouble, after the gala, I might consider remarrying you, and I can even have another child for you…” She tried to pull me up, but I pulled my hand away in disgust. Vivian still noticed me. Holding Ellie, she walked towards me, her brows furrowed. “What happened?” Julian’s face was full of flattery. “Ms. Vivian, this man is a fraud, impersonating your husband! I’ve already taught him a good lesson for you!” Scarlett echoed, “Yes, Ms. Vivian, you don’t need to bother with him.” The next second, Ellie let go of Vivian’s hand and ran towards me. Seeing my pathetic state, her eyes welled up with tears. “Daddy, why is your face covered in cream? And your hand, it’s bleeding…”

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The day of the class reunion, my CEO husband deliberately lost a game. With his buddies egging him on, he was ready to get his marriage license with his first love and post about it on SnapChat. Everyone in the room started cheering, and my husband impatiently pulled out the divorce papers, demanding my cooperation. “It’s just a game, don’t take it too seriously.” I stayed silent for a long time. Everyone thought I was about to explode. Instead, I took the divorce papers and said calmly, “A divorce is fine, but I need you to do three things.” He agreed instantly, rushing me to sign, even eagerly promising, “Forget three things, I’ll do three hundred if you just sign. And when we get remarried, I’ll give you a lavish wedding!” But he had no idea. The moment he decided to divorce me, my mission had already failed, and I was about to be eradicated by the System. Only by completing the three tasks the System assigned could I survive. Watching me sign, my husband, Jackson Hayes, gleefully put away the divorce papers. Everyone exchanged glances, a smirk of satisfaction playing on their faces. It was only then that I understood. This class reunion was an elaborate trap, set just for me. On the virtual screen behind Jackson, four blood-red words screamed: “CONQUEST FAILED.” The System’s electronic voice drilled into my mind: “Host, only by remaining married to your conquest target for seven years can you offset the cost of a life-for-a-life deal. You are now an hour and a half short of seven years. In 48 hours, you will be eradicated.” Its tone shifted. “However, seeing your pathetic state, if you complete three tasks within the deadline, you can survive.” “Now, initiating Task One.” “Make Jackson Hayes confess his love to you in public.” I let out a laugh. I’d just signed the divorce papers, and now the System wanted him to confess his love to me? Ashley Miller stood up, her pretty face tight. “Jackson, if you agree to Chloe’s unreasonable demands because of me, then I’m willing to be punished! I’ll drink three shots of tequila!” Jackson’s eyes were filled with heartache. “It’s fine. She can’t cause any trouble.” I gave a self-deprecating laugh. Seven years ago, on our wedding day, Jackson had planned to run away for love, but Ashley had run off with all his savings. After that, he became convinced I was behind it, and we’d been at odds ever since. Childhood sweethearts turned bitter rivals. I thought that if I just truly loved him, I could eventually win him over. In the last two years, he had almost accepted our situation. He even knew to come home early to celebrate our wedding anniversary. But then, Ashley came back. That’s when I realized he’d never forgotten her. He even orchestrated this whole setup just to marry her. He’d even forgotten that today was our seventh wedding anniversary. Now, the seven stolen years were finally to be returned. But I still wanted to live. I spoke up. “Jackson Hayes, the first thing I want you to do is confess to me.” “Confess to me exactly how you confessed to Ashley Miller back then.” Jackson froze, his eyes wide with disbelief. The private room erupted. “Chloe, don’t be ridiculous! You’ve already signed the divorce papers, there’s no need to be so petty and embarrass Jackson!” “Jackson, don’t listen to her nonsense! She’s just trying to cause trouble!” It was ironic. These people had received countless favors from me, and now, seeing the Hayes Corporation’s growing influence, they wouldn’t stop mocking me. Ashley’s face was flushed with indignation. “Chloe, you really are just messing with him! Jackson, I won’t let you suffer this humiliation!” My nominal husband confessing to me was a humiliation in her eyes? I coldly surveyed the room, then yawned. “I’m talking to Jackson Hayes. Is it your place to interrupt?” “Jackson Hayes, if you don’t confess, I’m leaving. I won’t even bother getting the divorce certificate.” Having been together for years, I knew his temper. His brows furrowed, and he said impatiently, “I thought you were being sensible today. Turns out you just came up with a new trick. If I confess, you’ll obediently go get the divorce certificate?” It seemed he was truly desperate to marry Ashley and make it official. “Yes.” Jackson’s face darkened. He spoke as if bracing for death. “Chloe, be with me. I’ll buy you two bottles of milk every day and warm them with my body heat, so you always drink them at room temperature…” Ashley’s eyes welled up with tears. She murmured, “Jackson, you still remember.” Everyone in the room couldn’t help but applaud, marveling at Jackson’s deep affection, how after eight years, he still remembered the moment he confessed to Ashley. As the two stared into each other’s eyes, their gazes growing more intimate, I felt my stomach churn. I left my seat. “I have to go. Something came up.” Behind me, the room erupted in laughter, mocking me for digging my own grave. As I walked out, my best friend, Sarah, who had somehow heard the news, found me at the restaurant. She immediately started yelling. “Did you really sign the divorce papers with Jackson Hayes? Are you crazy? You gave up a marriage with a billionaire’s son to marry him, kneeling until your knees were raw. And now you’re just divorcing him, letting that scumbag Ashley take advantage?” I stayed silent. Back then, the Hayes family was on the verge of bankruptcy. To help Jackson, I abandoned the billionaire’s son and resolutely married him. My parents were furious and disowned me. I was ostracized by my family. As the wife, I couldn’t interfere in any Hayes family affairs, leaving me in an awkward position. But when Ashley returned, Jackson immediately arranged for her to be Vice President, even entrusting her with billions in funds. Love and dislike were truly obvious. My killer heels had chafed my heels raw, and I shifted uncomfortably. I couldn’t help but mock myself. “You think she’s a scumbag, but Jackson treats her like a treasure. What can I do?” Sarah sighed, supporting me and giving me strength. “Men are like shoes. If they don’t fit, we change them!” As she spoke, Jackson came downstairs, lovingly rubbing Ashley’s head. “Ashley, let’s go take our wedding photos first, then buy rings. When we get the license, I’ll pick you up with a thirty-car convoy!” His gaze met mine, and Jackson’s lips thinned into a tight line. His voice was icy. “Chloe, two more things. If you’re playing games, I won’t go easy on you!” I lowered my eyes and gave a bitter laugh. He didn’t know I’d wanted to avoid him for ages. I was only in contact with him to stay alive. Watching him walk away, I called out to the System in my mind. “Is this task completed?” “Barely satisfactory,” the System’s tone remained unchanged. “Now, initiating Task Two.” “Go on a date with Jackson Hayes for one day.”

My foot slipped. “Are you serious? It’s a miracle Jackson can even tolerate me today. If I ask him to go on a date with me, he’ll think I’m just messing with him!” The System was cold. “Host has no right to question. You may choose to abandon the task and be eradicated.” In the dead of night, I tossed and turned, thinking about the System’s task. *Bang!* Jackson kicked open the door, dragging me off the bed. In the darkness, his furious eyes glowed eerily bright. “Are you happy now? Because of the scene you caused today, Ashley went home sick. I took care of her until past midnight before her fever broke!” I pried his hand off me and forced a smile. “It was just a game. Couldn’t you have called it off? Who would actually take a CEO like you seriously?” Jackson choked, then sighed softly. “It was just a game. Why wouldn’t you cooperate?” I said carelessly, “The second thing is, tomorrow, you cancel all your work and spend the day with me.” Jackson’s face instantly turned cold. “Chloe, are you pushing your luck? You’re really taking advantage!” He slammed the bedroom door shut and left. My mouth felt bitter. I knew this would be the outcome. The next morning, he still knocked on my door with a scowl. “I lost a million today because of you. What do you want? Hurry up and say it.” Because of me? More like because he wanted to get his marriage license with Ashley as soon as possible. The System told me the date wasn’t important; the key was for Jackson to spend six continuous hours with me. I took Jackson to the mall to kill time. All the way, he was glued to his phone, never looking up. Occasionally, he would stop at women’s clothing stores or luxury boutiques, waving his hand to buy a lot of things. All of them were for Ashley. In seven years of marriage, he had never bought me anything. The dress I was wearing was pilling from too many washes. To retaliate against me, he even competed with my family’s business. My dad called me a traitor, and the industry blacklisted me. No one knew that despite my outwardly glamorous appearance, I lived on a meager salary from online freelance work. By midday, Jackson was visibly impatient. I quickly took him to a hotpot restaurant. Just as we ordered, his expression changed as he looked at his phone. He made a call, his voice filled with worry and urgency. “How can you not eat? You don’t have an appetite without me there? Okay, I’m coming back now!” He turned, grabbed his jacket, and rushed to leave. “Urgent company matter. I’m heading out.” I knew this had to be Ashley’s doing. “Will you come back?” My task wasn’t finished yet. He thought for a moment, then nodded. “I will.” But I didn’t expect him to come back with Ashley. Jackson carefully looked after Ashley, feeding her and wiping her mouth, like he was nursing a bedridden patient. They looked like an affectionate couple, and I was just a random person sharing their table. Whatever I wanted to eat next, Ashley would point to and demand for herself. I had no appetite and set down my forks. She looked triumphant, saying with exaggerated sweetness, “The dishes Jackson feeds me taste exceptionally sweet…” Under the table, she deliberately stepped on my foot. I hissed in pain, but Jackson ignored it. Fortunately, we only needed to watch a movie to complete the six hours, so I endured her. Who knew there were only two tickets left at the movie theater? Ashley spoke first, her eyes red-rimmed. “Jackson, you and Chloe go watch. I know she’s deliberately using the divorce as an excuse to spend time with you, but it’s okay, I won’t be a third wheel! I’ll leave now!” Jackson panicked, quickly pulling her back. “What are you talking about? Forget this stupid movie. I’ll spend the whole afternoon with you instead. How about I make it up to you?” I said patiently, “Jackson Hayes, just watch one movie with me, and I’ll let you go. I promise I won’t bother you anymore.” But Jackson pushed me away violently, and the popcorn I was holding scattered everywhere. “Chloe, stop acting! I’ve told you I could never like someone as selfish and conceited as you. Ashley is generous and kind and doesn’t blame you, but that doesn’t mean I’ll indulge you. I’ve already been more than generous by spending time with you at the mall today!” He took Ashley’s hand and turned to leave. “Warning! Host is neglecting mission. Electric shock punishment. Please persuade Jackson Hayes to return within one minute.” The next second, a powerful current coursed through my body. I instantly collapsed, my knees hitting the ground with a loud thud, my whole body convulsing. Almost biting through my tongue, I pleaded with all my might, “Jackson Hayes! Please, watch the movie with me, or I’ll die, please…” Jackson whirled around, seeing me on my knees. His pupils contracted, and he instinctively took a step forward. “Jackson, you go. Chloe is usually so healthy, but she suddenly fainted. She must be really sick. Go with her, don’t mind me.” Ashley suddenly spoke. Jackson’s steps halted, his expression turning cold. “Chloe, now you’re faking falls? Don’t pretend to be weak. Don’t make me look down on you even more.” He abandoned me. No matter how I called out, he never looked back. After a long time, the System’s punishment ended. My face was deathly pale, like I’d just been pulled from water. Many people gathered around, offering to take me to the hospital. The System warned me sternly, “Task Two completion is only fifty percent. If Task Three is not perfectly completed, Host, you will still be eradicated.” The panel changed, displaying only one line of text: “Make Jackson Hayes propose to you.” I gave a desolate laugh, losing all strength and collapsing to the ground. This was an impossible task. When I opened my eyes again, I was in the hospital. Sarah rushed to bring me water, her eyes full of sympathy. “The doctor said your organs are failing, and you won’t live more than three days. Does Jackson know? Is this why you’re divorcing him?” I knew this was a side effect of the System’s punishment. Three days? Only twenty-four hours left. I didn’t want to beg and have Jackson pity me. After all, I was once a privileged heiress; I had my pride. I shook my head. “No, Sarah. As a best friend, I want to ask you something. After I die, just tell everyone I went abroad to travel and settle down. Don’t let anyone see how miserably I died.” Sarah’s eyes turned red. She wiped her face. “When the avalanche happened, you saved Jackson Hayes’s life, but he thought Ashley saved him. He misunderstood and tormented you for all these years. You—” My phone on the table rang urgently. It was Jackson. Sarah answered, unable to help but blurt out, “Jackson Hayes, do you know Chloe is sick!”

I struggled to get up and stop her. On the other end of the line, Jackson paused for a second, then scoffed coldly, “Did Chloe tell you to play along? What’s a fall going to do?” “Tell her to hurry up and say the last thing she wants so we can get it over with. I don’t have time for her drama.” Seeing how impatient he was, I took the phone and said seriously, “The third thing is very simple. You just have to propose to me.” *Crash!* A harsh noise came from the other end of the phone, as if something had fallen. Jackson panicked. “Ashley, what’s wrong? Don’t scare me!” The next second, he lashed out at me. “Chloe, are you crazy? Are you out of your mind? I’m not playing with you anymore. Go get the divorce certificate or don’t, I don’t care. Anyway, in thirty days, we’ll be automatically divorced. I’m not like you, I’m not desperate to live. I can wait!” He hung up. My heart ached. I knew Jackson wanted to get rid of me, but I never knew he loathed me so much. The System was still urging me to complete the task. But now, I didn’t even have leverage over him. What else could I do? Fatigue washed over me like a tide. Even if I knelt and begged Jackson, he would just think I was pulling stunts. If that was the case, I might as well die with dignity. With that thought, I called him. He answered impatiently. “If you’re still talking nonsense about wanting me to propose, just go die!” He didn’t know he would speak a prophecy. My voice was flat. “I was just kidding. See you tomorrow morning at the courthouse.” Jackson sounded surprised. “That’s it? You’re being so straightforward? Are you really that kindhearted?” “Don’t want to? Fine then.” “No! You better not be playing games!” He agreed hastily. Nine o’clock in the morning, in front of the courthouse. Jackson started yelling at me for being one minute late. “Chloe, what are you pulling now? You really were faking yesterday. They say bad apples never spoil, you’ll probably live to be a hundred!” His buddies all looked on with mocking expressions. They were all waiting for Jackson and Ashley to get their marriage license, specifically holding confetti ready to celebrate. I found it amusing. In the past, when Jackson and I had agreements, he was never on time, repeatedly breaking promises and intentionally watching me flounder for his amusement. Today, I was only one minute late, and he was so agitated. “Yes, I was on purpose. I’ve changed my mind. The third thing is, I want you to carry me inside to get the divorce certificate!” It was less than a hundred yards from the entrance. Jackson looked at me suspiciously. “That simple?” Ashley still rushed out to object, as if I were committing some heinous crime. “Jackson is a CEO! How can you treat him like a servant and make him carry you? We don’t need this divorce certificate, I’ll wait for Jackson forever!” Everyone else’s faces also turned ugly. “Chloe, you’re too shameless! This is clearly a deliberate obstruction! I think you just don’t want the divorce certificate!” I curved my lips into a smile, perfectly at ease. Jackson, however, said decisively, “Fine. But if you pull any more stunts once we’re inside, I’ll make your life a living hell.” He walked up to me. I jumped onto his back without a second thought. Jackson let out a surprised “Hmm.” I was too light. Frighteningly light. Back then, I had a bold personality. I loved racing, hiking, rock climbing, and my muscle mass was not to be underestimated. He subconsciously asked, “Are you starving yourself?” I said faintly, “Just disgusted by you and Ashley to the point of losing my appetite.” Jackson twisted his lips. “That’s enough, Chloe.” When we got married, he was held down by ten bodyguards as he was dragged into the courthouse, forced to get the marriage certificate, his face filled with disgust. Now, he walked steadily towards the courthouse, step by step, but it was to divorce me. In a daze, I remembered seventeen years ago. Jackson got caught in an avalanche while skiing. I rushed into the snowfield regardless of the danger, my throat raw from shouting, until I finally found him. At that time, he had snow blindness, and his leg was injured, making him unable to stand. I half-carried, half-dragged him down the mountain for a day and a night, even cutting my wrist to feed him my blood to help him regain strength. In a blur, Jackson’s hot tears dripped onto my neck. “You’re so good to me. I’m going to marry you!” I chuckled, coaxing him not to break his promise. By the time we reached the bottom of the mountain, I should have frozen to death from hypothermia. That’s when the System bound itself to me. It said that my love for Jackson was truly great. As long as I could stay married to him for seven years, it would grant me health and longevity. I agreed, secretly thrilled, thinking it was a free pass, and that we would surely be happy. But I didn’t expect that when I woke up again, I would see him confessing to Ashley in front of the entire school. He said he would marry me. But what I waited for was his endless gratitude towards Ashley. I tried to explain, but he didn’t believe me. “The one who saved me was gentle like a goddess. You’re so crude and overbearing, how could it be you!” Snapping back to reality, I whispered into Jackson’s ear, “Jackson Hayes, we’re even now.” He stopped walking. “What did you say?”

My throat tickled, and I coughed up blood. The System’s punishment yesterday had ruined my internal organs. Even as I covered my mouth, a drop of blood splattered onto Jackson’s neck. He roared with rage. “Chloe, are you trying to die? Coughing on my neck, how disgusting! Wipe it off!” I wiped the blood from the corner of my lips, pushed his head back to face forward, and said calmly, “Look straight ahead, don’t look at me.” Jackson quickened his pace, approaching the divorce registration window. Before he could put me down, I jumped off myself, grabbed a tissue, and wiped his neck. He still looked unsatisfied, pulling out tissue after tissue, as if he’d touched something filthy. I couldn’t help but speak. “Jackson Hayes, since you’ve decided to be with Ashley Miller, then don’t let her down.” Jackson frowned, finally looking at me properly. “What are you talking about? It’s only been one day, and you’re already so petty you can’t stand it? Don’t worry, when this game is over, I’ll give you a lavish wedding. I won’t break my promise.” I curved my lips into a weak smile. On the divorce agreement, I fumbled to find the spot to sign. My eyesight was the worst of all my failing organs. Jackson took my finger and pointed to the spot, scoffing, “What’s wrong with your eyes? Are you so sad about divorcing me that you cried yourself blind?” I snorted. “I just got a sty from being exposed to you and Ashley’s sickening display.” Since Ashley returned, I hadn’t bickered with him like this in a long time. Jackson angrily shoved me. “Chloe, you still have such a sharp tongue!” I groaned, taking a moment to recover. His expression suddenly changed. “Are you really sick?” I pretended nothing was wrong. “No. Hurry up and finish the paperwork. I’m planning to travel abroad for a few days. There are plenty of fish in the sea, why obsess over one flower?” Everyone hearing this couldn’t help but snicker, looking at me with expressions that screamed, “Stop acting,” full of disdain. Jackson’s face remained ugly. He suddenly stood up. “No divorce.” “No divorce?” Ashley gasped in surprise, then her eyes welled up with tears, and she said plaintively, “Jackson, if you can’t bear to, it’s okay. I’m willing to be punished. I just have a slight alcohol allergy, I won’t die. I’ll go buy the tequila now!” I was speechless, not understanding what Jackson meant. I deliberately provoked him. “Don’t bother. Or are you really reluctant to let me go?” Jackson, as expected, couldn’t stand the provocation and quickly signed the papers. “If it weren’t for your sickly, pathetic face, I…” He stopped speaking. Then, with a grim face, he took the divorce certificate, turned, and sat down with Ashley at the marriage registration window. Everyone gathered around them, their faces joyful. My business here was done. I turned to leave, but Jackson suddenly called out to me. “Don’t go, wait until Ashley and I get our license and post on SnapChat. Then I’ll marry you again right away!” Divorce then remarry, did he think this was a game? I perfunctorily acknowledged him and walked out of the courthouse. On the virtual screen, the countdown showed thirteen hours left, enough time for me to handle my affairs. But I didn’t expect my vision to turn blood-red. “Host Chloe Davis, mission failed. Detected official divorce. Countdown reset to zero!” I never imagined the System had this up its sleeve. I leaned against the courthouse doorframe and crumpled to the ground.

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Just because my son poured a glass of cold water for the coughing bodyguard, my wife immediately declared he was trying to hurt someone: “Don’t you know cold water makes a cough worse? You’re so young and already trying to harm people. What will you become when you grow up?” My wife grounded Leo and locked him in his room for 24 hours, saying she needed to teach him a lesson. I begged her desperately, explaining that our son had a high fever and urgently needed medical attention. I told her to punish me instead. But Quinn scoffed dismissively: “You’ve spoiled him rotten, letting him run wild. And now he’s faking illness to escape punishment? He needs to be locked up for two more days to learn some discipline.” She was afraid I’d cause trouble, so she locked me in a different room. I slammed myself against the door, not caring about the consequences, but it was too late. Leo died right there, his high fever untreatable. Three days later, as I was packing up Leo’s belongings, Quinn returned from a trip with the bodyguard. She was in a cheerful mood, plucking a single rose from the massive bouquet of 999 roses she’d received from him and handing it to me: “Stop acting. So what if he was grounded for a few days? What could possibly happen? At worst, I’ll take you two on a trip in a couple of days and cheer him up.” But she had no idea our son was dead. And I knew, then and there, that I couldn’t spend another day of my life with her.

Before, if she’d given me a flower, I’d have been too excited to sleep. But now, clutching Leo’s tiny clothes, my heart was torn to shreds, numb from the pain. Her raised arm must have gotten tired because she angrily flung the flower at my face: “I only brought Declan with me for protection. Nothing happened between us. Who are you putting on this face for?” A thorn from the stem left a small cut on my cheek, a thin line of blood welled up. A flicker of concern flashed in Quinn’s eyes, and her temper softened slightly: “Whatever, I’m not going to waste my breath on you. Just so you know, I’m going away on a business trip for a year. You manage our son, don’t cause any trouble, I…” As she spoke, she suddenly gagged. Declan immediately rushed to pat Quinn’s back, feigning carelessness and letting a pregnancy test slip fall from his pocket. I picked it up. It read: four weeks pregnant. No wonder. Before, her trips with Declan would last for months. This time, she barely left before coming back. So, she was pregnant. She said she was going on a year-long business trip, but she was clearly trying to escape and secretly give birth to this child. My poor Leo. To try and please Quinn, he saw Declan, the one Quinn pampered the most, coughing. So, he copied what his teacher taught him and poured Declan a glass of water. But because it was cold water, Quinn decided he was being malicious, trying to harm Declan. Even though he was burning with fever, she ignored my desperate pleas and locked him in his room. I fought with all my strength to break free from the bodyguards’ grasp, slamming myself against the door to save him, not caring if it killed me. My tiny son was hot as a furnace, but his last flicker of consciousness was still shaking his head: “No, Daddy. Mommy said three days. The time isn’t up yet. Mommy will hate Leo if she knows.” They say real men don’t cry easily, but that day, I couldn’t control myself. Tears streamed down my face: “No, we don’t need this mommy anymore, Leo. I’ll take you to the hospital…” Tragically, it was too late. He couldn’t be saved. Before he took his last breath, he clutched my sleeve and choked out, “Why didn’t Mommy come see Leo? Was Leo a bad boy?” Looking into his hopeful eyes, my throat was raw. I couldn’t utter a single word. Now, seeing this pregnancy test, I only felt a bitter irony. If Leo had known that the mommy he adored had poured all her energy into another child, how heartbroken would he have been? I couldn’t control my rage any longer. I flung the pregnancy test slip in front of Quinn: “Quinn, this is what you call ‘nothing happened’? Have you ever considered how Leo felt?” A flicker of shock crossed Declan’s face. He hadn’t expected me, who usually endured every injustice in silence, to actually resist. He quickly lowered his head and explained to Quinn: “I’m so sorry, Quinn. I was just so overjoyed about being a dad that I kept the pregnancy slip in my pocket. I didn’t mean to drop it, and I certainly didn’t expect Caleb to see it. Please punish me.” Quinn raised an eyebrow and soothed Declan: “It wasn’t intentional. Don’t overthink it.” Then, she glared at me: “You have the nerve to bring up the child? Aren’t you the one who caused all of this?” “Caleb, everything happening today is your just desserts.” My gaze darkened. Years ago, Quinn wanted to use IVF to have a child for her idealized first love, Julian, who was supposedly dying of cancer. It turned out Julian was faking a terminal illness and then absconded with the charity funds. Her Grandma Evelyn, fearing Quinn would lose her mind, asked me to tamper with the IVF procedure. I refused point-blank. Though Quinn and I had a marriage certificate, we’d signed a contract long ago. We were only a marriage of convenience, not allowed to interfere with each other’s private lives. But Grandma Evelyn knelt before me, pulling out records of all the tuition fees she’d paid for me, from elementary school to my PhD, begging for my help: “My son and daughter-in-law are gone. Quinn is my only grandchild. If anything happens to her, I won’t want to live either.” Without her, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I couldn’t refuse. I had no choice but to do as she asked. Quinn gave birth to my son, believing he was Julian’s orphaned heir, and cared for him meticulously. For a while, seeing how good I was with Leo, her attitude toward me improved significantly. She even suggested canceling our contract and genuinely building a life together. Then Declan appeared. She became completely infatuated with Declan’s face and mannerisms, which were ninety percent similar to Julian’s. She started spending nights out. She thought I didn’t know. At first, she met him in secret. Later, she even arranged for him to be her personal bodyguard, always by her side. But life was relatively stable, so I turned a blind eye. When Quinn eventually learned the truth and decided to send Declan away, he threw out a paternity test, accusing me: “Caleb used your trust to tamper with the IVF procedure, ensuring the man you love would have no descendants. And you, Quinn, you’re so foolish, enduring and sacrificing for him? You’re a complete joke!” Quinn flew into a rage on the spot. From that day on, her attitude toward Leo and me completely reversed. It was constant abuse, harshness, and punishment. I could suffer, but I never imagined Leo would lose his life because of it. Now, facing Quinn’s accusations, I couldn’t help but want to reveal the truth: “Quinn, about what happened back then…”

Just as I was about to speak, my phone vibrated. Grandma Evelyn’s name flashed on the screen. I looked up and saw the security camera in the living room blinking with a red light. I forced a bitter smile. Grandma Evelyn had been monitoring me. She would never allow me to reveal the truth. “Caleb, if you’ve got Leo’s clothes packed, come over. He’s waiting.” Grandma Evelyn’s voice was kind, yet a chill ran down my spine. I nodded and hung up. Quinn watched me suddenly pack my things without a word, raising an eyebrow: “What about what happened back then? Don’t tell me you’re going to say you had a reason too?” A flicker of anxiety crossed Declan’s eyes. He quickly interjected: “Quinn, no man can accept his wife having a child with someone else. You should consider his dignity as a man.” Quinn exploded in anger. She snatched a glass from the table and hurled it at me: “A good-for-nothing parasite living off my family, and he has the nerve to talk about dignity?” I didn’t say a word. As the glass shattered, I walked out of that suffocating house and headed to Grandma Evelyn’s old estate. The moment I arrived, Grandma Evelyn pressed a bank card into my hand: “Caleb, you and Leo have suffered so much. Take this money.” I knelt before her: “I don’t want money. I just have one request.” Grandma Evelyn quickly helped me to my feet: “If you want to leave, I’ll allow it. You’ve endured so many years of hardship. The favor I did for you back then has long been repaid. You don’t owe me anything.” I looked at Leo’s lifeless body, my eyes reddening: “Besides that, I want to take Leo with me, change his last name, and bury him in our family plot back home.” Grandma Evelyn hesitated. After all, I had married into Quinn’s family, and Leo not only bore Quinn’s family name but was also entered into their family tree. Knowing she wouldn’t easily agree, I handed her the crumpled pregnancy test slip: “Quinn is pregnant. She’ll have other children. But Leo only has me as family.” Grandma Evelyn remembered what Quinn had done to Leo. Unable to bear it any longer, she finally nodded in agreement. After handling Leo’s funeral, I cradled his ashes and returned home to get my documents. *Click!* The lights flickered on. Quinn was sitting in the living room, waiting for me, while Declan stood beside her with a smug, almost triumphant look. The atmosphere was eerily tense. Quinn was the first to break the silence, angrily declaring: “Look at what your son has done.” I raised an eyebrow, confused. Leo was dead. What could he possibly have done? Declan slowly patted Quinn’s back: “Calm down, honey. Don’t upset the baby.” “Leo added peanuts, which you’re allergic to, to your nutritious meal. He was just jealous of his unborn brother and wanted to harm him. It’s our fault, we didn’t discuss having a second child with him. He’s young, he doesn’t know any better. You shouldn’t be mad at him.” Quinn was furious: “It seems the last punishment was too light. He hasn’t learned his lesson.” He was just a three-year-old. How could he know anything about that? Besides, he was already dead… “Leo didn’t do it.” He was such a good, considerate boy. Until his last breath, he regretted pouring cold water and making Quinn angry. But Quinn believed someone else’s malicious lies and wanted to punish him. Ultimately, Quinn had transferred all her hatred for me onto our son. I’m so sorry, Leo. Mommy hated you because of me. You didn’t do anything wrong. I hugged the urn tightly, fighting back tears. Declan sighed: “If he didn’t do it, then did you?” Quinn became even more enraged, grabbing a tissue box from the table and throwing it at me: “It’s because you always cover for him that he became so unruly at such a young age! He needs a lesson today, to learn some discipline.” “Hand Leo over right now, don’t make me punish you instead.” He was so small. How could he possibly take the blame for such a serious accusation? I couldn’t take it anymore. Holding up the urn, I yelled: “Quinn, Leo was locked in his room and died from a high fever because of you!” “His ashes are right here! How could he possibly harm you?”

Quinn shot to her feet. “What did you say?” She rose too quickly, nearly stumbling. Declan quickly steadied her, his voice full of exasperation: “Quinn, he’s lied to you before. How can you still believe him?” “This afternoon, I clearly saw Leo wandering around the kitchen with a bag of peanuts, and then Grandma Evelyn picked him up.” Quinn immediately breathed a sigh of relief. She pulled out her phone and video-called Grandma Evelyn: “Grandma, is Leo with you?” Leo was dead. She would soon realize how terrible her actions had been. On the other end of the line, Grandma Evelyn smiled warmly: “Yes, he’s with me.” “Leo, do you want to talk to Mommy?” I lunged forward. And then, on the screen, I saw a child, crouched among a pile of toys, shaking his head, burying himself in his play. Grandma Evelyn sternly chided Quinn: “It’s all your fault for being so harsh on Leo. Now he doesn’t even want to talk to you.” My face turned ashen. I almost forgot. Quinn’s Grandma Evelyn had the most authoritative high-tech team in the world. Years ago, even before AI was prevalent, she’d used AI in a video call to let me assume Julian’s face, allowing Quinn to say her final goodbyes to him. Now, she was using someone else’s child to impersonate Leo, just to keep Quinn at ease. In this house, Leo and I were nothing more than tools, completely insignificant. It’s okay, Leo. Even if the whole world doesn’t love you, Daddy will always love you. I stroked the urn, speechless with grief. Quinn’s face darkened. She hung up the phone and snapped: “Caleb, you dared to lie to me again!” “Fine, your son is with Grandma Evelyn, so I can’t punish him. Then I’ll punish you.” “Declan, smash that useless thing in his hands.” I fought desperately to stop them, but I was no match for several bodyguards who quickly overpowered me. Seeing Declan raise the urn high, I fell to my knees, pleading: “Quinn, I beg you, give Leo back to me.” “I’ll do anything you want, please!” Quinn’s heart twisted in her chest. Just at the crucial moment, she suddenly called out, stopping Declan, and waved her hand: “Forget it. It’s just a broken box, no fun smashing it. Give it back to him.” Declan, looking disappointed, practically threw the urn back at me. I lunged forward, catching the box securely. With Leo back in my arms, I clutched the urn tightly, a mix of relief and despair washing over me. Declan sighed: “Quinn, you’re truly too kind.” “It’s okay. I’ll keep a closer eye on things from now on. After all, protecting you and the baby is my job.” Quinn’s hand went to her stomach. She suddenly called out to me as I was about to leave: “Wait. I said I wouldn’t punish Leo, but I didn’t say I wouldn’t punish you.” “Since you love taking the blame for your son so much, you can experience what an allergic reaction feels like.” “Order ten thousand lobsters for him. He’s not allowed to leave until he’s shelled every single one.” She knew I had a severe lobster allergy; even touching it would make me break out in hives. Even when our relationship was at its worst, she never allowed a single lobster on the table. Now, she must be completely insane with rage. I clutched the urn tightly. Looking at the enormous basin of lobsters before me, my eyes stung. The moment I picked up the first one to shell, my fingers began to turn red from the allergic reaction. Quinn turned her face away, standing with her back to me: “I’m tired. I’m going to rest. Don’t even think about slacking off. I’ll have someone watch you.” Declan helped her to the room. Facing the row of muscular bodyguards, I didn’t resist. I numbly continued shelling lobsters. As time passed, my entire body became covered in red hives, and my breathing grew increasingly difficult. In a haze, a pair of gleaming leather shoes appeared before my eyes. Declan grabbed my chin, his voice cold: “Just shelling lobsters is too light a punishment. You’re allergic, right? Then eat them.” He grabbed lobster meat and tried to force it into my mouth. With one quick move, I easily pushed him away. With his weak physique, he was no match for me. His only reason for being a bodyguard was Quinn’s longing for Julian. Seeing my resistance, Declan’s anger flared: “If you struggle again, I swear I’ll smash your son’s ashes.” I glared at him. He knew. He’d been deliberately trying to provoke me earlier! Declan saw me compromise and viciously shoved a handful of lobster meat into my mouth. For Leo, I didn’t dare to resist. Just at that critical moment, Grandma Evelyn appeared behind me, tapping her cane. She angrily confronted Declan: “You dare bully my family’s son-in-law? Get out.” Declan looked like he wanted to say more but eventually left, defeated. Grandma Evelyn dismissed all the outsiders. Ignoring the grease on my hands, she helped me up: “Caleb, stop shelling. You’re severely allergic now. I’ll take you to the hospital first, then help you leave.” I nodded, wiping the grease off myself before picking up the urn. A flicker of shame crossed Grandma Evelyn’s eyes. She explained: “Quinn is pregnant. Her emotions can’t be too volatile. I thought I’d wait until she’s more stable to tell her about Leo’s death.” “You and Leo have suffered so much again, Caleb. You *must* take this money.” As she spoke, she pushed two more cards toward me. I shook my head: “No, thank you. You’ve given me more than enough. I just want to leave peacefully with Leo.” Grandma Evelyn pressed the cards into my hand with more force, hinting: “Take it. Years ago, when Quinn’s first love ran off with her money, I forced you to switch the IVF samples, to make Quinn pregnant with your child.” “But I never imagined that my decision, the decision of this old woman, would lead to poor Leo’s death.” “I regret it deeply. I shouldn’t have forced you back then.” “This money isn’t much, but it’s my apology. I hope you’ll accept it.” “And please don’t blame this old woman. Quinn is my son’s only daughter, after all. She is my life.” She seemed to be pleading, but in reality, she was threatening me. If I didn’t take this hush money, I wouldn’t be leaving with Leo today. “Then, thank you, Grandma Evelyn.” I had no choice. Just as I was about to take the cards, *Crash!* A glass shattered. Quinn, in her pajamas, stood frozen in the doorway.

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The day my wife became CEO of the corporation. Before I could even celebrate with her, thugs kidnapped me and tossed me into a pool. I begged and pleaded, gasping for air, a pathetic mess. She stared down at me with disgust. “If you hadn’t left him for dead, Liam wouldn’t have died. This is your karma.” It was then I realized she’d always hated me for not saving her idealized first love, Liam, all those years ago. When I opened my eyes again, I was back on that fateful day. “When I confess later, can you play the music for me?” I heard that familiar voice. I looked up, meeting Liam Miller’s familiar face. In that instant, I knew I’d been reborn! On this very day in my previous life, Liam had asked Rachel Dawson—who would later become my wife—out to confess his feelings. But as the three of us left the mall, just as we were about to reach the confession spot, a billboard suddenly came crashing down from above. I was the first to react. I shoved Rachel, who was closest to me, out of the way. Both of us dodged just in time, escaping with only superficial scrapes. But Liam was crushed by the billboard, paralyzing him from the waist down, ending his street dance dreams forever. Two years later, Liam died by suicide, consumed by depression. Rachel didn’t even attend his funeral. So I always thought she didn’t care much for him. It wasn’t until after we were married, after I helped her rise to CEO, that she immediately had someone throw me into the water. Only then did I understand she’d been waiting for an opportunity to get her revenge. “You left Liam for dead to get to me! If it weren’t for you, he and I would have had a perfect family!” “You made me lose the man I loved! Die!” Gasping for air, drowning, I struggled, but Rachel pulled a plastic bag over my head. Layer after layer, her eyes filled with cold malice. She didn’t stop until I was like a fish out of water, completely out of breath. Then, with a look of pure disdain, she tossed my body into the ocean. Now, seeing Rachel coming down the escalator after shopping, a look of excitement on her face, I simply responded without a ripple of emotion. This life. I chose to stand by and watch.

Rachel held two coffees. One she drank herself, the other she handed directly to Liam. “Julian, I know you don’t drink coffee, so I didn’t get you one. You don’t mind, do you?” I smiled calmly. In my last life, her favoritism was so obvious. But I was foolish enough to think she was just being direct. Two minutes later, Rachel, laughing hysterically at something Liam said, finally realized I hadn’t caught up. She saw me standing at a trendy cafe, buying fruit tea. She called out to me from about fifteen feet away. “Ugh, what’s taking you so long? Can you hurry up?” I held up the order slip for my tea and waved it at them. “There are still a dozen orders ahead of me. Why don’t you guys go ahead?” “Seriously? Do you *have* to get that tea? The taxi will be here soon, and we’re not waiting for you!” “It’s fine. I can just call my own ride.” Seeing me dryly licking my lips, Rachel looked annoyed. She grabbed Liam’s arm and started walking away, muttering as she went. “Honestly, such a spoiled rich kid. Can’t he just wait until he gets home to drink some water?” Watching them walk away, I calmly picked up my fruit tea from the counter and followed slowly. A few yards from the exit, I heard screams erupt from the street. “CRASH!” The sound of tearing metal. The next second, the billboard came down from the sky. Rachel heard the commotion and immediately shoved Liam away. But she was the one caught, hit by the fifteen-foot metal frame. She crumpled to the ground, blood splattering from her head. The crowd instinctively formed a circle, children’s cries rising in a chaotic chorus. Liam, who had only suffered minor scrapes, scrambled to his feet. Urged by the onlookers, he finally remembered to call an ambulance. Gulp, gulp. I took two long pulls from my fruit tea. I guess this is what Rachel wanted to see in her last life.

I just got back to my dorm when I saw dozens of missed calls. I called my mom back. Her voice, close to tears, came through the phone. “You brat, where are you?” I told her I just got back to the dorm and my phone had died. My mom finally breathed a sigh of relief. “I told you not to go out in this stormy weather, but you wouldn’t listen. Look how scary things got!” “Your dad heard Rachel was injured near the town square and thought you were with her, so he rushed over too.” “From now on, when the weather’s bad, just stay in your dorm and read, got it?!” I used to hate my mom’s nagging. Now, hearing it over the phone, my heart felt warm. In my last life, when my parents found out I was missing, they knelt in the rain outside the police station, begging them to open a case immediately. And after Rachel became CEO, she not only purged my father’s loyal employees but also forced my dad, the former CEO, to live in a basement apartment. Yet, even that wasn’t enough for Rachel. Knowing my parents couldn’t handle the shock, she showed them videos of my abuse, blaming them for raising such a cold-blooded son. Learning I had died so painfully, my parents couldn’t take it. They literally died of shock and grief. Thinking of this, my eyes welled up. Hearing my silence, my mom raised her voice. “You knucklehead, not talking again! You probably put your phone aside to slack off!” “No… Mom, I was wrong before.” My mom paused, hearing the emotion in my voice. She thought I was worried about Rachel. “It’s okay, Julian. Rachel is a lucky girl, and your dad will help her out.” After hanging up with my mom, I stood on my dorm balcony and sighed softly. Rachel and I met when we were ten. My dad had just started his business, and her parents were divorcing. Since we went to the same school and were in the same class, we often did homework together. Later, in high school, Rachel and I both got into the honors class. Both our parents thought we’d continue like that forever, until Liam Miller showed up in our senior year. Liam was an arts student, not only good-looking but also an amazing street dancer. Ever since Rachel saw his performance, she’d been dying to meet him. I didn’t pay much attention at first. After all, Rachel always admired strength, and Liam was a total slacker when it came to academics. Besides, I’d personally seen Liam kissing a troublemaker in an alley, and his phone had a dozen backup girls. But Rachel wouldn’t believe me. She said I was just jealous. Well, this time around. I’m going to watch and see if she and Liam really end up together!

Rachel didn’t regain consciousness all night. My homeroom teacher, Ms. Evans, found me and urged me to visit her at the hospital. Everyone knew how close we were, so to avoid drawing suspicion, I followed her without a word. At the hospital. Rachel had internal bleeding in her brain. She was still in a coma when I arrived. On the hospital bed, only her nose was visible, hooked up to an oxygen machine, her legs encased in plaster casts and propped high. The doctor said she’d suffered a spinal injury and might be confined to a wheelchair for the rest of her life. Rachel’s mom, Mrs. Dawson, sobbed uncontrollably, kneeling on the floor. “Doctor, please! My daughter is a senior this year; her life has just begun!” Ms. Evans also pleaded. “Doctor, this child is Ivy League material. She has a math competition next month. You can’t give up on her!” In my last life, after Rachel won that competition, she soared, earning a guaranteed spot at a top-tier university. Now, hearing Ms. Evans mention the competition again, I clenched my fists. Math was my strong suit, but to avoid competing with Rachel, I hadn’t even signed up. Though I later got into a decent state university, a top-tier one was always my dream. Reborn, I wanted to make up for the regrets of my last life. Just as Ms. Evans finished speaking, a woman burst into the room, charging in recklessly. She grabbed Mrs. Dawson’s hair and yanked hard. “It’s all your fault! If your daughter hadn’t asked my son out shopping, he wouldn’t have been hurt!” “Flirting around at such a young age, and still trying to get my son to date her, ugh! You owe me for the medical bills!” At the doorway, Liam stood to the side, watching the whole spectacle like a detached observer. It wasn’t until my dad, Mr. Reed, came in to break up the fight that Liam’s mom, Mrs. Miller, was finally chased out. As Liam brushed past me, he threatened in my ear. “Remember, Rachel was the one who asked me out last night!” “If you say anything stupid, you know the consequences!” With that, he didn’t even spare Rachel a glance, chasing after his mom like she was contagious. I followed too. But I wasn’t chasing him; I was catching up with Ms. Evans. After all, Rachel always found me bothersome, and now she got exactly what she wanted. Even if she spent the rest of her life partially paralyzed. She should be happy, thinking she was hurt for the person she loved, right?

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I was linked to a Sickness Transmigration System. It dumped me into the body of the true heiress, despised by everyone. Everyone adored the fake heiress, who’d been carefully cherished by the family for sixteen years. My three brothers feared I’d try to claim what belonged to the fake heiress, so they constantly mocked and taunted me. My biological parents were terrified my presence would upset the fake heiress, so they went all out to make it up to her. They never once considered my feelings. They saw my desperate yearning for love as a threat, as sheer jealousy. Later, I was dying. Even later, my second brother found the diary hidden under my pillow. They fell apart. 0I was linked to a Sickness Transmigration System. It dropped me into the body of Elara Richard, the true heiress, half a year after she’d been found by the wealthy Richard family. On my very first day here. Someone splashed a whole plate of food right onto me. Hot curry sauce ran down my face and neck, and fish balls rolled off my clothes onto the floor. The heat stung. I stared at the boy in front of me, my face blank. My gaze was blank, devoid of any emotion. Everyone else was startled by his actions too. Eleanor, my mother, gasped, “Liam, what are you doing!” Liam’s face flickered with a hint of regret, but the words that burst out were nothing but blame. “It’s just that she always has that deadpan face! Jessica talked to her, didn’t she hear?” Jessica looked guilty at his words. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t know it was because of me…” She looked at me apologetically. “My third brother didn’t mean it. Elara, can I apologize to you for him?” Liam instantly bristled. “Who is she, anyway? Why would you even apologize to her? Jessica, why do you even bother with her?!” I gave a faint, bitter smile. I wondered, too, what the original Elara meant to them. Jessica stood, surrounded by my three brothers, dressed in a pristine white dress, her hair perfectly styled. Meanwhile, my clothes were stained yellow with curry, and the smell of food clung to me, even without looking down. Jessica. The family’s precious darling. This name shouldn’t have been hers. I ignored Jessica. I picked up the last remaining fish ball that had landed on my lap, swallowing it along with the curry still clinging to my lips. It wasn’t the taste I remembered. I got up and left. “I’m full. I’ll head back to my room now, thank you.” As I turned, I met Mrs. Davis’s worried gaze. I managed a small smile for her. Silence fell over the dining table. Richard and Eleanor looked displeased. Marcus, my eldest brother, said in a low, stern voice, “Liam, you genuinely crossed a line this time. Elara didn’t do a thing.” 0

My original self in the previous world was already dead. Late-stage stomach cancer, died at eighteen. I had died a slow, agonizing death from the pain. There was no one by my side. Aside from that single fish ball just now, I hadn’t eaten anything solid for nearly three months. Perhaps the System, taking pity on my miserable existence, brought me to this world. This body also had stomach cancer. But it hadn’t progressed to a terminal stage yet. The System said the original girl had taken sleeping pills and committed suicide today. Frequent abdominal pain accompanied by coughing up blood had made her aware of her body’s problems. But she was afraid that speaking up would cause trouble for the Richards family. Making the family, who already disliked her, despise her even more. So she chose to simply leave this world. How foolish she was. The Richards family had vast resources; with proper treatment, she could have definitely gotten better. This family was truly ironic. They’d brought their biological daughter back half a year ago and still hadn’t noticed she was gravely ill. “Why am I here?” A girl who shared my unfortunate fate. Both orphans since childhood. Both afflicted with stomach cancer. Perhaps she was luckier than I. At sixteen, she was welcomed home by her biological parents. Perhaps she was unluckier than I. She never received a single shred of unconditional love before she left this world, becoming an angel. The System remained silent. “Has my arrival worsened this body’s symptoms?” I asked the System, feeling the metallic taste of blood in my throat. The System replied, “Yes. Just like your original self, you might… by eighteen.” “But if you cooperate with treatment…” I spoke calmly, “No treatment.” It didn’t matter. I was going to die anyway, so what did it matter? Besides, I didn’t want to live. 0

In the middle of the night, my stomach pain was unbearable, and I tossed and turned, unable to sleep. It felt like I was back in my previous life. Every night, I’d curl up, eyes wide open until dawn. My room was empty. My throat was parched. I fumbled my way downstairs in the dark, desperate for a drink of water. Instead, I ran into my second brother, Alex, in the living room. Alex was a professional gamer, so it wasn’t unusual for him to be up at two or three in the morning. He clearly noticed me too. He looked at me with a sour expression. Alex was the quietest member of the Richard family. The original Elara had never seen him in a good mood in the six months since she came home. I ignored him. I figured her very presence was enough to irritate him. I walked to the kitchen, hunched over. But I didn’t realize Alex was startled by my appearance. Under the dim nightlight in the living room. He clearly saw me sweating profusely from the pain, my lips pale. Aside from the angry red scald mark on my cheek, the rest of my skin was shockingly pale, almost translucent. I, however, was used to my sickly appearance, so I paid it no mind. I leaned against the sink, trying to rest, but the next second, a wave of nausea hit me, and I threw up blood. “Ugh.” I choked, tears welling up from the pain. A sound came from the kitchen doorway. Alex had followed me in. I quickly turned on the faucet to rinse the blood from the sink, then cupped my hands and drank a few gulps of tap water. Then I heard Alex’s deep voice. “If you’re going to drink water, drink warm water. Cold water can upset your stomach.” I softly hummed in response, lowering my head, trying to walk past him. The original Elara had barely exchanged words with Alex, and I certainly wasn’t eager to get tangled up with this family. But Alex grabbed my wrist. I turned my head to look at him, my voice hoarse. “Second brother, is something wrong?” Being so close, Alex saw the wound on my face more clearly. He frowned, silent for a moment, then asked, “Why haven’t you treated the scald on your face?” I looked at his seemingly impatient expression. I just assumed he thought it was some kind of attention-seeking stunt. I pulled my wrist free, nodded vaguely. “Yeah, I’m heading back now.” He was too close. Alex turned on the light, then walked closer to the sink, frowning. Though the blood had mostly washed away. He still keenly noticed the faint reddish stains lingering in the sink… 0

The next morning, as I went downstairs, I ran right into Liam near the staircase. My third brother had the most hostility towards the original Elara. He and Jessica were close in age, and their bond was the deepest. Perhaps Liam was simply too young. All he knew was that the sister he had pampered and protected his entire life had suddenly been replaced. This new girl, who had just been found, was going to steal everything from Jessica. He vented all his resentment on his biological sister. He resented her for shattering their perfect life. Little did he realize, the original Elara was the true innocent one. Liam looked at the obvious scald on my face, his eyes darting away. He deliberately didn’t speak to me, waiting for me to greet him. But I didn’t even glance at him, walking past him and away. Richard’s face was cold. “You’re a grown person, can’t you even treat a small scald yourself? What kind of impression will you make walking around like that?” Richard was a traditional patriarch, his eyes always on profits rather than family. He was probably just worried about me embarrassing him. Besides, the original Elara had only been home for half a year. She couldn’t play any instruments, paint, or excel in academics. Her grades were abysmal. She had no real value to him. Eleanor also looked disapproving. I scoffed internally. If it had been Jessica, she’d have probably been rushed to the emergency room the second it happened. Yet last night, not a single person had bothered to ask if I’d been scalded. Or if I was still hungry after eating so little. Their favoritism truly knew no bounds. “There’s no first-aid kit in my room.” Silence fell over the Richards family. Of course, the master bedrooms in the Richard family mansion were fully equipped. But when they brought the original Elara back, they made their biological daughter live in a guest room. And a guest room’s amenities were naturally sparse. The original Elara even used the public bathroom. Not one person offered to give the original Elara a different room. Eleanor looked at her daughter’s face, so similar to her own, flushed with the scald, and a flicker of panic crossed her heart. If it were Jessica, even a small injury would have the whole family doting on her. But when it came to me, there was no sound, no care. I was nothing like Jessica, not at all lovable. Liam retorted, “You didn’t say anything, how were we supposed to know it was that serious?” A dull ache started in my upper abdomen, and I couldn’t help but hunch over. The taste of blood welled up in my throat. I tugged at my backpack strap, my voice hoarse. “I’m going to school now.” Liam frowned. It felt like his imagination, but Elara’s posture seemed… off. 0

After the original Elara was found, she transferred to Liam and Jessica’s school. But Jessica didn’t want the original Elara to share the same car, afraid someone would discover she wasn’t the Richard family’s true child. So the original Elara always went to school alone. In those six months, due to Jessica’s subtle hints, she had suffered no small amount of bullying. But that foolish girl endured it all in silence. She probably knew that even if she spoke up, no one would care. And her family would never believe Jessica had instigated it. I had just pulled my textbooks from my desk when I saw the fake cockroach glued to the cover. The few kids waiting to see my reaction were already secretly covering their smirking mouths. The original Elara would have definitely just taken it. But for me, dealing with such problems was just another Tuesday. I just wanted to quietly wait to die here, but if they insisted on coming at me, I wasn’t some pushover they could walk all over. I snatched up the textbook with the fake roach still stuck to it and strode towards the girl who’d been openly enjoying the show. I slapped the book right onto her face. Before she could even shriek, I dumped all the books out of her desk and found an identical textbook. The original Elara had always been quiet and unassuming in class, never making a sound. Today, with my flushed face, I drew the silent attention of many classmates. Now, my once invisible self was causing such a commotion. The classroom instantly fell silent. The girl snapped back to reality and lunged at me like a maniac, trying to scratch me. I grabbed her hair and said coldly, “I’m letting bygones be bygones for what happened before. Don’t you dare mess with me again.” With that, I shoved her away and went back to my seat, slumping down. Not only was my stomach burning, but I also felt faintly nauseous, like I was about to vomit. The girl wouldn’t let it go, raising her hand to slap my face. Suddenly, her wrist was caught by Jax, who sat behind me. His rebellious face darkened. “Too loud.” The girl’s eyes widened when she saw it was Jax, and she instantly shut up. Jax was the undisputed king of the school, a total bad boy. His family had serious power and influence, so no one dared cross him. She went back to her seat and exchanged knowing glances with the others who’d been enjoying the show. A smirk played on their lips. 0

I was in so much pain I couldn’t straighten up, cold sweat beaded on my forehead, and I bit my lip hard to suppress the nausea. The frown etched on my face from the pain wouldn’t ease. This wasn’t right. It shouldn’t have progressed this quickly. This felt like late-stage. The next moment, I was suddenly lifted into the air. The jarring screech of a chair dragging across the floor made the whole class turn to look. I struggled, trying to get out of Jax’s arms, but I didn’t have enough strength and he held me even tighter. The tall, slender boy seemed to have endless energy. “Don’t move.” He seemed to see me like this for the first time: “I thought you were just a meek little mouse, always letting people walk all over you. Guess even the quiet ones snap sometimes.” As we walked, Jax sighed lightly: “How can you be so light?” Before we even reached the infirmary, Liam lunged forward, blocking our path, fuming. Liam’s anger surged, and he sneered coldly. “Elara, are you serious right now? Class is about to start, and you’re out here on a date with a guy!” “Clearly, you have no upbringing at all. You’re nothing like Jessica.” My heart suddenly twisted with a sharp pain. A wave of emotions, not entirely my own, surged through my chest, overwhelming me. It was always like this… No questions, just immediate blame. The pain intensified, and the taste of blood flooded my mouth. My eyes welled up with tears. I quickly ducked my head, refusing to acknowledge they were mine. Through his thin summer shirt. Jax seemed to feel the hot teardrops. His face was etched with confusion. He had a hot temper, and he said impatiently, “Who are you? Can’t you see she’s not feeling well? You just came up and started yelling? Go get some therapy if you’re sick, don’t throw a tantrum here!” He started to pull my face away, but then he looked down and saw the angry, bright red scald on my cheek. “Don’t scare me. We’ll be at the infirmary soon.” Even if only for a second, I saw Liam’s gaze sweep over me. He must have seen the blood at the corner of my mouth. His face instantly panicked. He wanted to follow, but Jessica, who had caught up, pulled him back. “Third brother, why didn’t you wait for me! You ran so fast?” Liam turned to look at her displeased expression, pushing down the unease in his heart, and stayed where he was. 0

Jax jostling me made me feel even more nauseous. I pushed at him, struggling to speak. “Want… to throw up…” Jax only heard a weak mumble. “What did you sa—?” Before he could even finish asking, I wretched, spewing everything out. I hadn’t eaten anything all morning, so what came out was just acidic water mixed with blood from my stomach. I tried my best to avoid it, but it still got on Jax’s clothes. I gripped his shirt, weakly apologizing. Jax’s face darkened, but he gently laid me on the infirmary bed, letting the school nurse take over. He silently went out to get a mop and rag to clean up my vomit. The school nurse applied medicine to my face and put me on an IV drip of glucose. “Young lady, why are you throwing up blood? Do you have any medical history?” The school nurse advised me to go to the hospital for a thorough check-up, just for peace of mind. I thanked him and explained that it was just because I hadn’t eaten breakfast. I didn’t need a check-up; I already knew this body’s condition. I silently asked the System why this was happening. The System’s mechanical voice quietly responded. “Because the original owner’s consciousness is fading faster.” Meaning she wanted to leave this world faster, right? The System remained silent. I gave a knowing, bitter smile. Elara. Her name, given by her grandma, held a hidden meaning: “to retain,” “to keep.” When Grandma Rose found the baby girl, still bundled in swaddling, she was stiff and purple, frozen in the bitter snow. Grandma Rose thought the original Elara had already frozen to death, but then her tiny finger moved. Grandma Rose took the original Elara home and named the little girl Elara. Grandma Rose was a woman of deep faith. She always said that saving Elara, retaining her, was fate’s decree, and her own heartfelt wish. At five years old, Grandma Rose passed away. The original Elara was sent to an orphanage by the neighbors. Later, the Richards family took her back and wanted to change Elara’s name. But she stubbornly refused; it was the only thing her grandma had left her. But now, Elara no longer wanted to follow fate’s decree. She just wanted to find the only person who had ever truly loved her: Grandma Rose… Perhaps it was the pain, or perhaps it was because of the girl. My eyes welled up, and I stared blankly at the ceiling. We were two souls adrift, bound by the same tragic fate. No need for introductions; we understood each other instantly. In that moment. I wanted to hold that girl deep within my soul, tightly. 0

I noticed Jax was still there and quickly wiped my eyes. I pursed my lips. “Thank you for bringing me here.” In my past life, I faced too much malice and always fought alone. Now, facing Jax, who had helped me, I felt a little lost. And I’d just thrown up on him… Jax raised an eyebrow. “Then, as repayment, how about you get me breakfast every day?” I hesitated. I didn’t want to get too involved with anyone. Jax saw my worn, faded canvas shoes and quickly added, “My meal card’s yours. What? Your thanks aren’t just empty words, are they?” I sighed, helpless, and could only nod in agreement. After school, I planned to go to the hospital. My body’s condition would only worsen. I needed to get some painkillers. The original Elara had a card; it was compensation given to her by Marcus, the Richard family heir, when she first returned. If ordinary painkillers worked, I wouldn’t even want to go to the hospital. Gastroenterology department. Dr. Miles was very young. Perhaps seeing that his patient was a young girl, he spoke softly, asking me where I felt unwell. For a moment, I actually felt like crying. Such concern was something I had never received in both my lives. I smiled at him. “Could you please prescribe me some morphine?” The doctor froze, unable to believe his ears. The young girl in front of him, barely old enough to be in school, was asking for morphine. I continued, “If not, then OxyContin, Fentanyl, just anything will do.” Dr. Miles choked, looking reproving. “What illness does this young lady have? Have you been checked? You can’t just take any medicine.” “I have stomach cancer, mid-stage,” I answered calmly and seriously. His expression instantly stiffened, and he even seemed agitated. “How is that possible? How old are you? Which hospital? Which quack diagnosed you?! Believe it or not, I’ll report them!” The doctor’s expression was a little amusing. I couldn’t help but chuckle. “I’ve already been checked. It’s just been hurting more and more recently. Could you please prescribe me some painkillers?” Dr. Miles looked at the girl’s genuine expression, and his heart sank. “Do your family know?” “You’re so young. Why aren’t you fighting for treatment?” I sighed. This was one reason I didn’t want to come to the hospital. I had to play the victim. “My family knows. It’s just… we don’t have the money at home, and I have several older brothers, so I won’t get treatment.” Dr. Miles looked like he wanted to say more but eventually said nothing. I left the hospital with my medication. Unaware that Jax had followed me the whole way. 0

ax hid behind the door, feeling a chill run through him. After school, Jax had watched the girl wobble out of the school gate, worried she might faint halfway. After all, they’d shared a bond from half a year of him copying her homework. He inexplicably followed her. Unconsciously, he’d followed her to the hospital. He had planned to leave, but a strong emotion held him back. And then he overheard that the girl had stomach cancer. No wonder… she was coughing up blood. Jax felt a knot in his stomach, even wanting to slap himself. He had bullied the girl for half a year. He was a terrible person! But beyond that, a dense wave of heartache washed over him… When I got home, I intended to pack a few changes of clothes, preparing to move into the school dorms. But then I found my things had been moved. Mrs. Davis said, “Elara, Mrs. Richard gave you a new room.” “It’s on the same floor as Jessica, the one on the far east side. She said it’s so you and Jessica can bond better.” Mrs. Davis looked at me with pity. The Richards family’s favoritism was truly boundless. Almost the entire third floor belonged to Jessica, yet they’d given me only one room on the far east side. Ha. I felt a pathetic amusement on behalf of the original girl. Were they arranging this to warn me that my status in this family would never compare to Jessica’s? But it didn’t matter anymore. I was moving into the dorms anyway, and in just another half a year or so, I wouldn’t be in this world anymore. The daily, agonizing pain told me so. The girl’s desire to break free from this family, and from this world, was incredibly strong.

At the dinner table. I informed Richard and Eleanor that I wanted to live at school. The family, who had been chatting and laughing, instantly fell silent. Eleanor frowned. “Why do you suddenly want to live at school? Don’t you like the room your mother arranged for you today?” She suddenly remembered Mrs. Davis’s words from this morning: “Elara and Jessica’s rooms are quite different, I’m afraid Elara might overthink it.” She then had a sudden realization, thinking Elara had complained to Mrs. Davis, and said impatiently, “Don’t be so jealous. Jessica’s room has been hers for sixteen years.” “You’ve only just moved in. Don’t compare everything to Jessica. If you really want it, we can get an interior designer to renovate your room in a while.” Richard’s face was even fouler. “Why aren’t you as sensible as Jessica? What will people think if they find out that I, a prominent Richard, let my daughter live at school? It’ll just be a joke.” Liam suddenly thought of the boy who had held me today and became annoyed, speaking without thinking. “Could it be for the convenience of flirting with some wild guy?”

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My name is Chloe, and I’m a senior year student at a dance academy. With a stunningly beautiful face, a tall, slender figure, and curves in all the right places, I didn’t just capture the hearts of every guy on campus. I also had my rich boyfriend, Blake, wrapped around my little finger. But lately, I’d been in a bit of a bind. I was pregnant. Three months along, to be exact. “Baby, you’re graduating soon anyway. I’ll take responsibility. You’ll be Mrs. Blake.” Blake held me face-to-face on his lap, mumbling his words. His reassurances comforted me slightly, but I still had my reservations. “But I have a really important international dance competition in eight months. I’m worried I won’t recover in time…” Blake, though, promised me again. “I’ll take you somewhere tomorrow. I guarantee you’ll have a smooth delivery and recover super fast!” The next day, Blake indeed took me to the place he claimed would help me recover smoothly. “Blake, isn’t this just a swimming club?” Blake led the way, holding my hand, and all along the path, men stared at me with undisguised awe. They flaunted their muscular chests, their swim trunks stretched tight. Being stared at so intensely by a group of towering men, I couldn’t help but feel my steps falter. And in the crowd, there were a few even more imposing Black men. If I got surrounded by *them*… The thought made me shiver. “Baby, relax. When have I ever lied to you?” Blake squeezed my hand, and I snapped back to reality, quickly lowering my head and hurrying to keep pace with him. I secretly chided myself. How could I have had those thoughts about other men? Ugh, it must be these pregnancy hormones surging, making those thoughts even more intense. I mentally chanted to clear my head, but to my surprise, Blake led me directly in front of one of the Black men. Compared to the group I’d seen earlier, this man’s physique was even more terrifying; his arms were as thick as my thighs. “Blake, long time no see.” The man flashed a wide, white smile at Blake, but his gaze landed on me. “Hello, I’m Mike.” Mike extended his hand to me. But for some reason, as he raised his fingers, they brushed directly across my chest. I yelped and recoiled. Just as I was about to get angry, I saw both Blake and Mike looking confused. Was I overthinking it? Thankfully, after that little incident, Mike didn’t make any more inappropriate moves, and my heart slowly calmed down. Soon, I finally understood why Blake had brought me to Mike. “Baby, this is Coach Mike, the one who’ll make sure you have an easy delivery and recover your body and figure incredibly fast afterward!” “Wh-what?” I couldn’t believe it. This male Black man was going to be *my* birthing coach? Before I could even react, Mike, as if to prove himself, reached out and effortlessly pulled me onto his lap. And his hands, with no regard for boundaries, immediately forced my legs open… 2 “What are you doing?! Let me go!” I shrieked again, trying desperately to break free from Mike’s grip. But his strength was immense; he easily held me still. I could only look to my boyfriend, Blake, for help. “Blake! Help me!” But Blake acted as if he hadn’t seen my distressed expression. Instead, he bent down and squatted in front of me, openly scrutinizing me. “Mike, what do you think of my girlfriend?” His words were incredibly strange, as if he were trying to sell me to Mike! Mike’s deep voice rumbled above my head. “She’s a dancer, so her physical condition is good. But precisely because she’s a dancer, she has many hidden injuries.” “These old injuries might hinder her postpartum recovery. It’s definitely necessary to intensify the training.” As he spoke, Mike’s hand gripped me hard, as if checking a product. His hand was large, his skin rough, completely unlike Blake’s pampered rich-kid hands. It felt strange on my skin. “No…” But the two of them ignored my struggles and protests, continuing their conversation. Finally, they released me. I practically scrambled away, my eyes filled with resentment as I looked at Blake. Blake finally seemed to realize something and quickly moved to comfort me, his tone softening. “Baby, Mike was just doing a basic assessment. His movements were a bit rough, that’s all.” “But don’t worry, the follow-up training will definitely be effective. Mike was introduced to me by my family!” I was quickly distracted. “Your family also knows Mike…?” The thought of what just happened made my cheeks flush even more. Blake nodded and even explained in detail, and my doubts were once again dispelled. Since Blake’s family recommended him, I decided to trust Mike this once! So when Blake decided to leave first, leaving me alone with Mike for training, I didn’t immediately refuse. Later, every time I thought of my naive self in that moment, I repeatedly felt the urge to slap myself hard. But that was for later. For now, Mike stood before me like a towering structure, his shadow completely enveloping me. “Chloe, go change into your training clothes. We’ll start soon.” Mike handed me a set of so-called training clothes. But the moment I put them on, I was stunned. What kind of training clothes were these? They were even more revealing than my dance outfits! The top was made of thin straps, barely covering anything. A small movement in front of the mirror, and I felt like I was about to expose myself. No! How could I appear before Mike in such clothes?! I bit my lip, but just as I thought about changing back, Mike’s massive figure appeared behind me without me even realizing it! His eyes gleamed, and he extended his long arm, trapping me directly in front of the mirror. 3 “Let me go! What do you want…?” An intense pressure surrounded me, and I stammered out the words! He finally released me, but that didn’t mean he was letting me off the hook. Instead, he started to push his luck. “Chloe, the second step of training is to fully understand the body’s structure. Do you want me to test each part, or will you tell me actively?” Mike’s voice was deep, as if it carried some strange, hypnotic power. I quickly swallowed, not daring to speak. But what I didn’t expect was for Mike to simply use his hands to verify. My neck, my lower back, my heels… His hands were rough, and the way he “verified” left me mortified. He was like a lion eyeing its prey, his gaze predatory! Is… is this really training? I bit my lip hard, using the pain to force myself to stay clear-headed. “I… I don’t want to train anymore. I want to go home…” But the next moment, Mike’s large hand directly covered my slightly swollen belly. “I feel a cute little one in here. You know, my training can help the baby grow better.” “A smooth birth also ensures a safe and healthy baby… Chloe, do you really not want what’s best for your child?” Mike’s persuasion seemed to touch the softest spot in my heart. Perhaps pregnant women naturally develop maternal instincts, but I was defeated by Mike’s few words yet again. “Alright, fine, let’s train…” Thinking this way, I felt that if I maintained this mindset during training, I wouldn’t have any other inappropriate thoughts about Mike. But I had completely underestimated Mike. He pushed open a door inside the room, revealing a private swimming pool behind it. Before leading me into the water, Mike looked at my slightly bulging belly with an incredibly pious expression. He even showed a strange, paternal affection! Something felt off… But before I could react, Mike picked me up and carried me into the water, beginning to touch me freely! “Mmph!” “Training step three: regular hot spring baths and massage to boost your hormones, ensuring faster postpartum recovery.” Mike said, his hands becoming bolder. My body began to tremble. But for the sake of my baby, and for my own postpartum recovery, I could only endure it for now. I constantly comforted myself, trying to calm my inner turmoil with maternal love… Even if I felt the colossal body of the tall man behind me, I had to pretend not to notice! But Mike’s next move made my entire body go numb. I couldn’t control myself anymore…

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Because I was diagnosed with a terminal illness, my wife urged me to give up treatment and leave all my assets to our son. Even my eight-year-old, Kevin, had absorbed it all, asking me more than once, “Dad, when are you going to kick the bucket? Mom says I can’t get my inheritance until you’re gone!” Later, when I went back to the hospital for a follow-up, a zombie outbreak hit. To save themselves, Brenda and Kevin tried to trick me into a horde of zombies. But when Brenda learned I carried a precious zombie serum, she righteously demanded my blood. “We’re family! It’s your duty to save me!” I slammed the door, trapping her in a room swarming with zombies. “Sorry, I don’t know you.” 1 All the way from the hotel to the hospital, Brenda and Kevin were fuming. Once we got there, they plopped down on the waiting room bench. They wouldn’t stop muttering. “Typical, burning through our money. I told you it’s a lost cause, but no, you just *had* to come to this fancy hospital. It’s a money pit!” “Mom, you promised that house would be put in my name. Dad won’t go back on his word, right?” My heart felt utterly cold. I dragged my body, still battling a low fever, into the long registration line. My nose felt warm, and then a nosebleed started again. I quickly cupped my hand over it, my eyes searching for the restroom. It was the weekend, and the first-floor lobby was packed, stretching as far as the eye could see. The anxious questions of patients and their families, the shouts of doctors and nurses clearing paths, the constant calling of numbers over the loudspeaker – it all blended into a chaotic mess that made my head pound. People were pressed so close, even breathing felt difficult. It was like I was inhaling everyone else’s exhaled carbon dioxide. Amidst the noise, a piercing scream caught everyone’s attention. But it lasted only a few seconds. After all, in a hospital, screams and cries were nothing out of the ordinary. People murmured and speculated, sighing at fate’s cruel twists. I thought of the stark, sharp words “LEUKEMIA” on my test results and let out a bitter laugh. My body had always been so healthy, and I’d kept up a regular exercise routine for years. Anyone who knew me, colleagues or friends, always praised how fit I was. How could I suddenly get leukemia? I don’t know how long I’d been waiting; my nosebleed had already stopped. Finally, it was my turn. Just as I was about to hand my ID through the window, a nurse suddenly ran in from the side, anxiously whispering something to the nurse at the counter. That nurse gave me a “one moment” gesture, stood up, and left. I muttered about my bad luck. Soon, impatient grumbling started behind me. People in line couldn’t wait; many moved to other lines to re-queue. I hated to give up on the progress I’d made, so I stayed put, waiting. But quickly, I realized something was off. This was the biggest hospital in the city, with ample medical staff and resources. So, what kind of emergency would pull even a registration nurse away? I waited ten minutes. She still hadn’t come back. After thinking it over, I decided to head to the restroom first to wash the blood off my face. I didn’t notice. The moment I stepped into the restroom, the lobby erupted in a chorus of roars and screams. 2 Before I even left the restroom, I caught a strong whiff of blood. Even for a hospital, this intense smell was completely abnormal. I pressed my ear closer to the restroom door, listening carefully. The noise outside seemed even louder than before. But mixed in with the chaos were some unnatural sounds. They were a bit like drunken retching, yet far more terrifying, almost inhuman. For some reason, a chill ran down my spine. If Brenda and Kevin knew, they’d probably mock me for being a coward, call me neurotic. But I trusted my gut feeling. I carefully pulled the door open a crack and peeked out. Outside the door, almost everyone was scrambling to escape. Some rushed towards the main entrance, others towards the stairs. Every face was contorted in terror, like they were running for their lives. But the door blocked my view of the entire lobby. I moved as quietly as possible, pushing the crack wider, then squeezing out sideways. When I finally saw what was happening in the lobby, I immediately raised my hand and bit down hard on the web of my thumb to keep from screaming. People scattered like headless chickens. The main entrance was already a dense pile of bodies, pushing relentlessly forward. The people at the very front were pressed tightly against the glass, no longer moving. Yet, more kept surging towards the exit. The information desk had been overrun. Dozens of people were huddled inside, cowering, and others kept clambering over the counter. Looking towards the direction people were fleeing, I saw a few figures in hospital gowns, covered in blood, limping slowly. Their limbs twitched uncontrollably, bending at angles no human body should. Those chilling growls were coming from their mouths. An elderly man, unsteady on his feet, was knocked to the ground by the stampeding crowd. I watched, horrified, as a man staggered over to the old man and bit into his neck. Blood erupted instantly. The others—or whatever those creatures were, no longer human—instantly became frenzied, moving with shocking agility to swarm the old man. Within ten seconds, the old man was torn beyond recognition, a bloody mess. Then, that gruesome, mangled pile of flesh on the ground twitched, stood up, and joined the horde of wandering creatures. Clearly, everyone had witnessed the tragedy. The crowd fell silent for two seconds. Then, someone, I don’t know who, was the first to snap out of it and screamed. “Z-Zombies! Run! There are really zombies!” I never thought scenes I’d only seen in novels and movies would actually happen in real life. Snapping back to reality, I frantically searched for a suitable hiding spot. The restroom and the main entrance were diagonally opposite. Plus, the main entrance was completely blocked by bodies. Escaping the hospital was impossible. The stairs were right next to the restroom. Now, going upstairs seemed like the best option to find a way to survive. I tiptoed, trying to make no sound, and took two steps at a time up the stairs. Soon, I realized I was wrong. The second floor seemed even worse. Blood, like it had been splattered everywhere, already formed a thin, sticky layer on the corridor floor. Several doctors in white coats were already victims, roaring incessantly in the hallway, searching for their next target. Despite my caution, a few zombies spotted me. They lurched towards me, blood-filled mouths gaping beyond recognition, quickly attracting the attention of other zombies in the corridor. The hospital corridor was a long loop, and zombies were closing in on me from both directions. Down on the stairs, first-floor zombies were also starting to search for living people upstairs. I shuffled my trembling legs, backing up continuously. Until my back hit the hard wall. There was nowhere left to go. The zombie on my left was just two steps away, reaching out with a hand missing two fingers. I let out a bitter laugh, closing my eyes in resignation. Suddenly, something hard jabbed my lower back. It felt like a doorknob. By sheer reflex, I pressed the handle, twisted, ducked inside the room, and locked the door. A zombie rushed past, its putrid stench brushing against my clothes. After the close call, I gasped for air. I quickly patted myself down. No wounds. I finally relaxed, sinking to the floor. Thank god, I was still alive. 3 I leaned against the wall and rested for a bit, slowly regaining my composure. Shaking, I immediately pulled out my phone and dialed 91

Before it could even connect, police sirens wailed from outside the window. My eyes lit up. I rushed to the window. Only one police car was parked downstairs. Three officers, fully geared up, quickly got out. But they weren’t here to rescue us. They swiftly pulled down the fire shutters over the main entrance and the perimeter fence. While cutting off the zombies’ escape route, they also cut off my chance to escape the hospital. The police car’s loudspeaker blared, repeating: “Survivors inside the hospital, please remain calm. Find enclosed spaces to protect yourselves and wait patiently for military rescue.” The loudspeaker’s sound agitated the first-floor zombies. They repeatedly slammed their bodies against the glass, creating terrifying thuds. After three repetitions, the police car sped away. My rekindled hope shattered again. I felt a wave of despair. I pulled out my phone, mechanically dialing 911 again and again. But it was always a busy signal. I don’t know how many times I dialed until my arm ached, and the phone slipped from my grasp. Without food or water, trapped in this small consultation room, no bigger than ten square meters, I wondered if I’d live to see rescue. My phone suddenly rang. I tensed up and quickly answered. But it wasn’t the police. It was Brenda’s voice. “Where are you? Are you okay? Kevin and I are so worried about you. He keeps asking for his dad.” She handed the phone to Kevin. “Dad, come find us! I’m scared!” For some reason, both their voices were muffled and low, like they were in a very small space. A flicker of suspicion sparked in my mind. When Brenda first learned I had leukemia, she’d repeatedly urged me to just give up treatment and not waste money. Even my eight-year-old, Kevin, had absorbed it all, asking me more than once, “Dad, when are you going to kick the bucket? Mom says I can’t get my inheritance until you’re gone!” After several such instances, my heart had grown cold. Before coming to the hospital, I had already made up my mind: no matter the follow-up results, I was divorcing her. I’d rather take my assets to the grave than let those ungrateful leeches get a single cent. How could two people who so eagerly wished for my death suddenly care about my safety? I kept my guard up, not answering directly, but instead asked: “Where are you guys? Are you okay? You haven’t been bitten, have you?” “No, no! Luckily, I hid fast. The moment I realized something was wrong, I ducked away. We’re in the first-floor restroom now. There’s a small window here. Come find us, we can climb out together!” I replied, feigning surprise: “Really? That’s great! I’m coming right now.” Two minutes later, I whispered impatiently: “I’m here. Where are you?” Brenda sounded excited: “You’re sure you’re here, right?” I snapped, annoyed: “Of course! What are you doing? Hurry up!” “Good, that’s great!” Before she could finish, a ridiculously loud, obnoxious tune blared from the bathroom. It was Kevin’s smartwatch. Brenda and I had even picked that ringtone together. The music echoed through the entire building, enraging the zombie horde. They roared and surged towards the first-floor corner. Amidst the roars, Brenda’s voice turned manic: “Alex, you’re going to die anyway. Just make yourself useful to us!” Maybe my heart was already numb. Hearing her words, I felt no ripple of emotion, only amusement at her stupidity. Thanks to her, the second-floor corridor was now empty. Stepping out, I looked down. Two figures, one large and one small, dashed from the janitor’s closet near the stairs towards the main entrance, only to be blocked by the heavy fire shutter. Seeing this, I couldn’t help but burst out laughing. The call hadn’t hung up yet. Brenda’s furious curses and screams came through the line. “Oops, I forgot to tell you guys, the main entrance is completely blocked. No way out now.”

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