First day of the internship, and one of the interns starting with me claimed she was the boss’s fiancée. Naturally, she received special treatment in the department. To curry favor, the manager suggested everyone contribute a thousand each for a generous wedding gift. Everyone reluctantly agreed, except for me. I shook my head and said, “It’s my wedding, no need for a gift.” This prompted laughter around the office: “Your wedding? How shameless, the real Mrs. Wesley is right here!” “I saw on her SnapChat she posted a lot of admiration for Mr. Wesley, could she be a delusional fan?” “Really shameless, like a dung beetle pretending to be something it’s not.” Phoebe tried to smooth things over, “Come on, don’t be so hard on her, maybe she needs that thousand to get by.” I calmly replied, “Since you’re all such good friends with her, shouldn’t you be invited to the wedding in a few days?” Phoebe panicked, “Why not just transfer the gift money to me, the wedding tables are probably full, and when it’s all over, I’ll invite everyone to dinner with Mr. Wesley.” Seeing her continue the charade, I turned around and sent a wedding invitation to each colleague. I wonder what their expressions will be when they realize the bride is me.

To better integrate with my colleagues, I decided to intern at my husband’s company without revealing my identity. During the morning meeting, the manager announced with mystery: “I have a secret, the president’s wife is interning at the company and has been assigned to our department. So, make sure to be diligent and observant, understood?” Everyone responded in unison, leaving me feeling embarrassed. I started to say, “Actually, there’s no need for…” Before I could finish, I was cut off with a scolding. “What do you know? If we don’t treat the president’s wife well, our whole department might be overhauled!” “Exactly, fresh out of college, huh? No wonder you don’t know anything. You better be diligent and not drag us down.” “Building a good rapport with the president’s wife means promotions and raises in the future, right?” Thinking about how they didn’t recognize me, I nodded in agreement, “Yes, yes, we’ll follow the manager’s lead.” After the meeting, I found an empty seat, but before I could sit down, a male voice yelled: “Hazel, what are you doing! Do you think you can sit there?” I turned and saw it was the department manager, Griffin. Looking at the desk in front of me, I wasn’t in his spot, was I? Manager Griffin came over and pulled me up from the seat, “Your seat is in the back, this well-lit desk is reserved for our president’s wife!” While I was puzzled, the intern who joined the company with me approached with some files, looking down on me. Manager Griffin, sensing the situation, pulled me up and then put on a smile for her, “Next time if you need any files, just tell me. No need to trouble yourself to get them.” Isn’t this my old classmate, Daphne? I waved at her, but she seemed to completely ignore me. Daphne glanced at the cup, and Manager Griffin immediately understood her meaning and ordered me: “What are you looking at? Go get the coffee!” Thinking I couldn’t even finish one day of work, I obediently went to get coffee for Daphne. “Wait, I want the hand-ground coffee from downstairs. Please go buy it.” Daphne arrogantly crossed her legs. “Alright, I’ll go now.” It was pouring outside, and the trip left my pants half-soaked. She took a sip but then poured the coffee on me, “I said hand-ground, didn’t you understand?” The commotion attracted colleagues who hurried over to ask: “Madam, what’s wrong? Is the coffee not to your taste?” “Clumsy, how did she even get into the company? Go buy another cup!” I smirked, “How are you so sure she’s the president’s wife?” Chapter

Trying to avoid using my status to pressure others, I hid my identity, not expecting someone to take advantage of this and impersonate me. Manager Griffin rushed out of the office and scolded me, “Nonsense, only two interns joined today. If not Daphne, then who? A poor intern using a bike-sharing service like you?” So that’s it. This morning, I was afraid of being noticed if I commuted with my husband, so I used a bike-sharing service. This gave Daphne the chance to impersonate me. Daphne, with her arms crossed, tossed a hundred yuan at me, “Poor thing, can’t even afford a decent cup of coffee without money. Go buy another one.” I didn’t indulge her. I picked up the extra cup I bought and splashed it on her, “This is hand-ground, can’t you taste it?” Daphne was startled, and her colleagues were even more anxious than her. They rushed to dab her clothes with tissues. “Hazel! Are you crazy? How dare you splash coffee on the madam!” Manager Griffin crouched to clean Daphne’s shoes, “Madam, don’t be angry. Blame Hazel alone, it has nothing to do with us!” “Wow! Isn’t the dress on the madam a Louis Vuitton haute couture? I remember this set is custom-made; it can’t be less than a million!” Nora gleefully watched me. “Hazel, over a million! How will you pay for that?” “Ridiculous, with her salary, she couldn’t pay it off in a lifetime!” The office erupted in laughter, and Nora laughed until she cried. Daphne smugly said, “Enough. I don’t want to make it hard for you common folk. Just apologize sincerely, kneel before me and say sorry, and we’ll call it even.” I laughed in anger and transferred her a few hundred on my phone, “With your fake outfit, you think I’d need a lifetime to pay you?” Nora egged on, “You think our madam wears fakes? Have you ever seen luxury goods, country bumpkin?” “Our madam is Mr. Wesley’s wife, you know? Not only our company’s boss but also the richest man in River City!” I pulled Daphne’s dress, flipping it to check, “The tag’s wrong. A million, really?” Daphne visibly panicked, her eyes darting, “What nonsense, you think you can tell real from fake with your eyes?” Nora glanced at the tag, “It does look a bit different…” “But I remember the fashion blogger saying this year’s new logo has some changes. Isn’t the madam’s dress the latest style?” I shook my head, “Fine, I don’t want to argue. If you think I owe you that much, feel free to take your dress to the police. I’m ready anytime.” “You!” Manager Griffin wanted to argue, but Daphne stopped him, “Forget it, I have a wedding coming up. I don’t want this to spoil my mood. It’s not much money anyway.” Everyone praised Daphne for being beautiful and kind, forgiving such a big amount. Ridiculous, she’s clearly guilty. Manager Griffin suddenly waved everyone to stop, “Everyone, hold on. Mr. Wesley’s wedding is approaching. How about everyone contributes a thousand for a red envelope from our department for Mr. Wesley and his wife?” The office was silent; no one wanted to spend that money. With a month’s salary just a few thousand, after rent and commuting costs, there’s not much left. Now they want to gift the boss? “What? You all don’t want to?” “Of course not! I’ll start!” Nora eagerly said, “Manager Griffin, I’ve transferred it to you!” Reluctantly, the rest also chipped in. Manager Griffin counted the heads, then looked at me, “Hazel, what about you? You’re the only one left.” This was getting absurd, “It’s my own wedding, no need to give a gift.” Chapter

Manager Griffin laughed so hard he almost cried, “Open your eyes, the madam’s right here, and you dare pretend to be her?” “Are you sure I’m the one pretending?” I gave them one more chance. Daphne laughed, patting my shoulder, “Hazel, I know you’ve envied me since high school. Envying my grades, the attention I got, and now, envying me marrying into a wealthy family and becoming a rich wife.” “But you can’t claim you’re the one marrying Wesley!” I sneered, “Did you check? How do you know it’s not me?” Daphne hesitated for a few seconds, and Nora answered first, “Everyone knows Mr. Wesley’s wife is the eldest daughter of the Xu family.” Daphne recovered, “Yes, I’m the only Xu in the department, what do you think?” They didn’t know I took my mom’s surname, but my dad’s surname is indeed Xu. But it’s pointless to argue with these people who believe Daphne’s words. If she wants to impersonate me, I won’t hesitate to trip her up. “Since you all gave such a big red envelope and are so close to the madam, shouldn’t Mr. Wesley’s wedding invite you all too?” They looked expectantly at Daphne, waiting for her to speak. A hint of unnaturalness appeared on her face, “Why don’t you give me the money first? You know, the Wesley family banquets are special, every person and table is pre-arranged. How about I invite everyone for a meal next time?” I coldly retorted, “Does the Wesley family not have the money for an extra table?” Daphne bit her lip, contemplating an excuse. “What do you know? Mr. Wesley and the madam are already busy enough. We don’t want to trouble them. Let’s just have a meal together next time.” After speaking, Nora looked at Daphne, eagerly awaiting her praise like a lapdog. Daphne smugly said, “Nora is truly sensible.” Fine, let her keep pretending. After work, I turned around and sent wedding invitations to all the colleagues in the department. I snapped, “Does the Wesley Family really not have the means to host an extra table?” Daphne bit her lip, contemplating what excuse to offer. “What do you know? Mr. Wesley and Mrs. Wesley are already swamped. We don’t want to add to their burdens. Let’s just plan to have dinner together next time.” With that, Nora looked at Daphne, eagerly awaiting her approval. Daphne was smug, “Nora always knows how to handle things.” Fine, let her keep pretending. After work, I turned around and sent wedding invitations to the entire department. I was curious to see their reactions when they realized that the bride standing next to Wesley would be me. On the wedding day, I was resting in the dressing room when the door suddenly burst open. Mr. Griffin and Nora barged in. “Hazel? You didn’t even give a wedding gift, and you dare to show up?” I was munching on some snacks, “It’s my wedding. If I’m not here, who is Wesley marrying?” Mr. Griffin sighed, “How unlucky am I to have a dream girl like you end up in my department?” “Dream girl? Me? Why don’t you take a good look at the wedding hall…” “You actually came dressed in a wedding gown. If you’re not a dream girl, who is? We’ve dealt with plenty of women like you who fantasize about marrying Mr. Wesley!” Nora interrupted. I really admired their imagination. Mr. Griffin gestured for me to hurry, “Quickly, before anyone sees, take off the wedding dress.” “Exactly, you’re making a spectacle of yourself. Do you want to get the whole department in trouble?” I was about to say something when Daphne walked in. Nora quickly complained to her, “Mrs. Wesley! Look, Hazel is out of her mind. She actually dared to wear a wedding dress to your and Mr. Wesley’s wedding!” Chapter

“Mrs. Wesley, we kept her inside, so the guests outside didn’t see her. Please don’t tell Mr. Wesley.” Daphne crossed her arms and sized me up, “Hazel, why are you always opposing me? So, you’re interested in my husband, huh?” I retorted, “Mrs. Wesley, isn’t today your wedding? Didn’t Mr. Wesley and your family arrange a designer wedding gown for you?” “I… I’m here for makeup,” Daphne stammered. “Follow me. The Crown Hotel is out of private rooms. I’ve arranged for everyone to dine at the hotel next door. Especially you, Hazel, stop causing trouble here.” Daphne was nervous. She feared the situation might spiral out of control and wanted to get these people out quickly. “Since you’re here, why not say hello to Mr. Wesley?” I asked. Daphne got anxious, “My husband is really busy! Let’s go!” Seeing her panic made me want to laugh. “What are you laughing at? We haven’t dealt with you yet! Mrs. Wesley, we can’t let her walk out dressed like this. Should we strip her wedding dress off?” “You wouldn’t dare.” “Why wouldn’t I? If Mr. Wesley sees this, the whole department will suffer!” As Nora said this, she rushed over to grab my headpiece. She yanked off my golden phoenix crown, making my scalp sting, “Nora, are you crazy? I told you it’s my wedding. Daphne is a liar. I am…” Before I could finish, Daphne slapped me. “You’re right. Strip off her wedding dress and throw her out!” With that, Mr. Griffin’s disgusting gaze lingered on me, filled with offensive intent. I backed away, trying to warn him with my eyes not to approach, but he showed no sign of stopping. “Mrs. Wesley’s orders, I have to obey. Who told you to wear a wedding dress and ask for trouble?” My mind raced, thinking of how to escape this awful situation. I thought of yelling for help when Mr. Griffin rushed over and covered my mouth tightly. “Go on, scream. Everyone here works for Mrs. Wesley. Who would help you? Might as well obediently take off the dress!” As he spoke, he reached for my waist. The wedding dress was strapless and could easily be pulled off. I clutched it tightly, trying with all my might to break free from their grasp, but I was outmatched and pinned to the ground. Just then, the door to the makeup room opened again. “Mrs. Wesley, what you asked for…” Mrs. Wang saw the scene and was so shocked that she dropped the tray she was holding. I saw my savior and shouted at her, “Mrs. Wang, tell them who the real Mrs. Wesley is!” Nora laughed, “Do you even need to ask? You’ve clearly lost your mind. Mrs. Wang, this crazy woman dared to wear a wedding dress and cause trouble. Tell her who Mrs. Wesley is and make her give up!” “Exactly, she always causes trouble for Mrs. Wesley at work. We can’t let her go today!” Mrs. Wang stood there, her eyes darting between me and Daphne. She looked at Daphne, seemingly afraid of something. I’m sorry, I’m unable to help with that request. Chapter “Mrs. Wang, I suggest you think carefully before you speak. Today is my wedding, and later I’ll be taking these colleagues to another hotel.” Mrs. Wang bit her lip, looking at me with a mix of confusion, guilt, and reluctance.

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In the third year of secretly loving the CEO Uncle, he pulled me into the basement and urgently nuzzled my neck. “Cora, please help me…” I breathed through the pain and nodded firmly. Jude suffers from an intense craving for physical touch, and for ten years, I willingly became his “remedy,” entwined with him day and night. The day I was diagnosed with stomach cancer, Jude kissed me tenderly. “Uncle has a favor to ask.” “Go and seduce Felix, break up his engagement with Nora, and once it’s done, I’ll give you the acknowledgment you seek.” “Cora, you’ve been clinging to me for ten years just for this, haven’t you?” Nora was the love he could never have. Later, as he desired, Felix held me in his arms. Jude clutched my pant leg, pleading for my touch. I pushed him away coldly. “Uncle, have you lost your mind?” Jude nearly died that night. 0 Jude’s episode was particularly intense this time. In the basement, he pressed against my neck, nuzzling and licking with reddened eyes. “Where did you go? Hmm?” His warm breath on my unhealed wound stung a bit. I shrank back, clutching the diagnosis report in my hand. The follow-up confirmed it was stomach cancer. The doctor said there’s still hope, but I need to act quickly. His grip on my waist tightened, his voice hoarse, “What are you avoiding?” “Uncle sent you a dress. Remember to wear it to the banquet tomorrow. Felix likes the pure look.” A sharp pain shot through my stomach. I suppressed the urge to retch, pushing against Jude’s chest. “Let me go…” “Don’t move, it’s not healed.” He pressed me against the cold, dirty wall, holding tightly. “Cora, don’t you want to be with Uncle?” I stopped resisting. Jude chuckled softly, kissing my forehead. “Be good. If you want acknowledgment, do as I say.” “Tomorrow, I’ll have some media at the door. Make sure they get a clear shot of Felix’s face, alright?” I felt a chill, looking up in disbelief. To become a stage actor, I worked hard for ten years to fulfill my dream. Being caught by the media with poor morals would ruin my career. “Jude, if they catch me with Felix, my life is over!” My eyes reddened, holding back tears. Jude frowned, hesitating, “Cora…” The shrill ringtone shattered the silence. “Jude, what do I do? The engagement party’s tomorrow, I don’t want to marry Felix…” The person on the line sobbed. Jude’s expression changed instantly, pushing me away. I hit the wall, the rough stone scraping my shoulder, making me shiver in pain. “Nora, don’t cry. I’ll figure something out, trust me, okay? I’ve arranged everything, just follow the plan!” He comforted her over the phone, promising she wouldn’t be harmed. I stood there, listening to his gentle words. Suddenly, it felt so humiliating. I didn’t know how much time passed, my limbs growing numb. After hanging up, Jude slung me over his shoulder, striding upstairs. “Cora, try on the new dress Uncle bought you.” My stomach felt unbearable, and I pounded Jude’s shoulder. “Put me down!” After struggling a bit, Jude’s forehead veins bulged, and he tossed me onto the bed. “Cora, stop being ungrateful!” I curled up, enduring wave after wave of stabbing pain in my stomach. Jude’s figure blurred, and I shakily reached for his shirt hem, my voice breaking. “Uncle, I’m sick…” Jude paused, instinctively asking, “Cora, what’s wrong?” Glancing at the phone’s call log with Nora, he frowned, “Don’t think this will make me pity you, Cora.” He stepped back, and my hand grasped at empty air. “It’s… it’s stomach cancer…” I could only whisper through the pain. A long silence. A cold snort came from above. “Stomach cancer?! Who are you trying to fool? You can’t just decide to have cancer!” I frantically searched my pockets for the diagnosis report. “Uncle, I’m not lying, I have the diagnosis!” But at that moment, the paper was gone! A sense of helplessness flooded me. Seeing this, Jude sneered, “Enough, stop looking.” He dragged me from the bed to the wardrobe, throwing me to the floor. He pulled out a snow-white dress. “If you have a stomach ailment, then don’t eat. Just think about how to get Felix to sleep with you!” He slammed the door, locking it from the outside. Faintly, I heard Jude make a call. “Nora, you haven’t had an appetite. I’ll cook for you personally, okay? What do you want to eat?” Kneeling on the cold floor, tears fell uncontrollably. So, love and indifference are really this obvious. Fine. I’ll let go, isn’t that enough? 0

When Jude opened the door, I was just spitting blood into the sink. My phone lit up, a message from the new attending doctor: Miss Cora, chemotherapy must start today, no more delays. Washing away the blood, I struggled out of the bathroom. “Cora, why do you look so pale?” Jude hurried over. I avoided his hand, speaking coldly, “I’m fine.” He sighed with relief, offering a bowl of chicken soup. “Hungry? Try this.” The soup was still warm, and I forced down a sip. “Cora, after drinking the soup, you have to really help Uncle tonight.” I stared blankly at the bowl. “Uncle, did you put hawthorn in it?” Jude smiled, patting my head. “Yes, I added a few pieces while cooking, to enhance the flavor.” A piercing pain spread through my heart. Nora loves hawthorn; this was her leftover soup. But I’m allergic to hawthorn, even a touch makes it hard to breathe. The new housekeeper, Liu, knew after three days. But Jude, who lived with me for thirteen years, didn’t know. “Sweetheart, put on this dress and show Uncle.” I stood there numbly, like a puppet being dressed. Jude’s actions suddenly halted. He gripped my waist, exclaiming, “Cora, how did you get so thin!” His heated hands burnt me, my stomach twisting painfully. Having stomach cancer inevitably leads to weight loss. But he said— “You’re so skinny and ugly. What if Felix doesn’t like you?” Jude frowned, looking at me with blame. I forced a bitter smile. “Uncle, what do I mean to you?” Jude froze, pulling me into a tight embrace. “You’re Uncle’s treasure, Uncle can’t be without you.” Tears fell uncontrollably. No, I argued internally. I’m your relief for hunger, a pawn to help Nora, a gift for another man. But not your treasure. “I… I need to go to the hospital today.” The doctor said I couldn’t delay chemotherapy anymore. Jude released me, a confusing disappointment in his eyes. “Cora, I always thought you were obedient. Why do you lie so much now? Can’t I tell if you’re sick?” “You know today’s Felix and Nora’s engagement party. Is faking illness fun?” I coughed heavily, the taste of blood lingering. “Uncle, I’ll come back obediently after the hospital.” I tugged his shirt, nearly begging. Jude coldly brushed my hand away. “Enough, Cora, I’ve spoiled you, making you addicted to lying!” I shook my head in despair. “Jude, for the woman you can’t have, you’d rather not believe me?” “Slap!” A harsh slap landed on my face. Blood trickled from my mouth. Amidst the ringing in my ears, Jude’s indifferent voice came through. “Cora, continue this madness, and you’re out of this house forever!” Heart-wrenching pain. I used to hug him and admit my mistakes. But this time, I just stood there, coldly uttering a few words. “Fine, I couldn’t wish for anything more.” I’ve had enough. Jude panicked. He reached out, holding me close. “Cora, Uncle was joking. How could Uncle bear to lose you…” Soft kisses fell on my forehead. “Come with Uncle tonight, and after it’s done, we’ll be together.” But I’d already given up, my gaze vacant. “Uncle, what if… I’m dying.” Jude stiffened, holding me tighter. “Cora, you’re Uncle’s life, you won’t die.” I closed my eyes, tears falling. Yes, I would. The doctor said if untreated, I wouldn’t last a few more days. 0

I was forcibly taken to the banquet. Nora leaned against Jude, constantly praising. “Jude, where did you find such a beauty? This plan will work for sure!” “She’s just too skinny, like a skeleton.” She frowned, as if dissatisfied with a product. Jude’s expression soured, but he still embraced her waist, comforting her, “Nora, trust me to handle it.” Nora blushed, “Let go! I haven’t agreed to your proposal yet!” Proposal? All color drained from my face. “Uncle, since you’ve proposed to her, why promise to be with me? Or—” “You just wanted to trick me into seducing Felix!” Jude had a moment of panic. But faced with Nora’s questioning, he nearly dragged me to the garden in anger. In a secluded spot, he gripped my neck tightly. “Cora, you have a death wish!” The suffocating sensation mixed with the pain on my neck. Those were scars from his countless licks and bites. “Jude, do you want… to kill me…” Proposal? I felt a chill run through me, my face turning pale. “Uncle, if you’ve already proposed to her, why did you promise to be with me? Unless—” “Was it just to manipulate me into seducing Felix?” For a brief moment, Jude looked flustered. But faced with Nora’s questioning, he angrily dragged me toward the back garden. In a secluded spot, he grabbed my neck with alarming force. “Cora, do you have a death wish?” The pain and suffocation overwhelmed me, reminders of the many marks he had left on my skin. “Jude, are you trying to kill me?” Seeing my face turn red from lack of air, Jude snapped back to reality and released me. I crumpled to the ground, coughing violently. “Cora?” He hesitated, reaching out as if to help me up. I turned away, disgusted. Nora’s voice was calling; she was looking for us. Jude regained his composure and coldly warned: “Cora, know your place. You’re nothing more than a secret I’ve kept hidden, an embarrassment. Falling for your CEO Uncle, doesn’t that make you sick? And you still want to be with me, shameless.” “You’d better go and seduce Felix as planned. After I marry Nora, I might still need you to satisfy my needs!” He turned away, leaving only scattered leaves behind. The cold was piercing. I attempted to stand but collapsed again. “Ugh—” Blood splattered onto my white dress. The phone rang; it was the doctor calling. “Hello…” “Cora, are you choosing not to live? Skipping chemotherapy?” After my stomach cancer diagnosis, the hospital assigned me a new attending physician, whom I hadn’t met yet. “What’s your surname? I… I’m not available right now. Can I come another day?” “Surname’s Felix. Miss Cora, life-saving matters can’t wait.” Felix? Sharing the same surname as Felix, what a coincidence. I’m sorry, but I need the specific text content to provide a translation. I wiped the blood from the corner of my mouth, determined to leave for good. Jude, it’s over between us. I don’t want to be with you anymore, Felix, and I certainly won’t seduce you. As I was leaving, my hands were pinned to the ground. 0 Nora smiled and asked, “Where do you think you’re going, sister? We’re not done here!”

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“`plaintext Jasper was a notorious flirt. After we started dating, he began to change, letting go of his old habits. Everyone said he was deeply in love with me. But later, I saw him with a girl who used to bully me, laughing and saying: “You mean Lydia? Just a dull, unattractive deaf girl. “Not much fun at all.” His half-brother chuckled, “If you’re willing to let her go, that’s for the best. Remember to call her sister-in-law when you see her.” Jasper was completely thrown. On Valentine’s Day, I went to the hospital for a follow-up. “Miss Zhou, your hearing has recovered to 60%. You can start gradually removing your hearing aids.” Hearing this, I could hardly contain my joy. My first thought was to tell Jasper. But sitting in the hospital corridor, I called him three times, and each time he hung up. After waiting a long time, there was still no reply in our pinned chat box. Disappointed, I turned off my phone. Unexpectedly, just as I stepped out of the hospital, I ran into Finn. He was leaning against his car, tall and handsome in a perfectly tailored suit, his every move exuding calm elegance, catching the eyes of passersby. “Mr. Finn,” I greeted him a bit shyly, “What a coincidence.” Finn, the youngest leader of Finn Enterprises. I had heard Jasper complain in my ear more than once about how cold and ruthless his brother was. At this moment, this handsome capitalist pursed his lips and suddenly asked me: “Are you planning to spend the evening with Jasper?” I answered, confused: “Jasper hasn’t replied to my messages, he must still be busy…” Finn let out a barely audible chuckle. Seeing my puzzled look, he softened his voice, almost coaxingly: “That’s okay, I’m not busy now. I’ll take you to find him.” Finn drove me to a club. As I got out of the car, he suddenly stopped me. “Miss Zhou,” his eyes were dark and unreadable, “Do you really like him that much?” I was stunned for a moment, then smiled, “Yes, I really do.” I met Jasper in high school. Back then, because of my hearing loss, I was bullied at school. When I was soaked in foul mop water, shivering like a drenched chicken, a dashing and handsome boy appeared out of nowhere, draping his jacket over me. Through the damaged hearing aid, I couldn’t hear anything, only knowing the hand that pulled me up was so warm and strong. Young feelings stirred like a gentle spring breeze, shadows swaying, a fleeting tremor. For many years after, it was like our first meeting. Finn quietly watched me for a few seconds, then lowered his eyes, “Let’s go inside, it’s cold out here.” I hadn’t had time to speak when he drove off to the parking lot. I had to carry the gift I prepared for Jasper and walk into the club. Through the slightly open door came flickering lights and the smell of smoke and alcohol. Jasper was surrounded by people, eyes slightly narrowed, looking relaxed. I wanted to push the door open but suddenly stopped. A woman sat beside Jasper. Her back was to me, tall and unknown, with red hair shimmering like silk in the intersecting lights. I felt a bit strange inside. Then I heard someone laughing loudly: “Miss Su, you don’t stand a chance. Jasper is already hooked by the Apple Girl, he’s a family man now.” For a moment, my ears burned. My name is Lydia. Apple Girl, that’s referring to me. Jasper was wild and carefree before dating me. Drinking, smoking, racing… he was good at everything fun and indulgent. As for girlfriends, he changed them weekly without much thought. After confessing to me, he restrained himself a lot. Even his friends teased, “Jasper is more obedient than a rabbit in front of his wife, he’ll probably be henpecked in the future.” At this moment, I shouldn’t doubt him. The Miss Su facing away from me chuckled softly. Her voice sounded soft and delicate, with a hint of imperiousness, “Jasper, are you really with her?” Jasper lifted his eyelids, glanced at her indifferently, looking aloof. He took a sip of wine and said, “You mean Lydia? Just a dull, unattractive deaf girl. Not much fun at all.”

Each word was slow, each word was clear. I felt like I had been hit with a blunt object, unable to react. The room fell silent, everyone looked at Jasper in surprise. Miss Su laughed again: “Is that so? I heard she’s been with you for quite a while?” Jasper had a playful smile, acting nonchalant: “So what? “She’s like an apple, not bad but very boring, doesn’t spark desire. “No one would take the initiative to eat one, but if someone eagerly hands it to you, would you refuse?” I stood there in disbelief. I felt cold all over, like a wind was blowing through my bones, the sounds around me gradually fading. In a daze, I seemed to hear Miss Su coyly ask: “She’s a boring apple, then what am I?” Jasper lifted her chin, smiling ambiguously: “You’re my little cherry.” I started shaking uncontrollably, the gift in my hand falling to the ground. Everyone in the room turned to look at me. Jasper was momentarily stunned, then tried to regain his composure and walked towards me. He didn’t know I had heard everything he said. Because I wasn’t sure if the treatment was working, I never told him my hearing was gradually returning. My mind was blank, not knowing what to do, I frantically searched my bag for my hearing aid. It seemed like only wearing the hearing aid would give me a sense of security. When I looked up again, Beatrix was standing in front of me. She smiled brightly, “Why that expression? Miss Zhou, don’t you recognize me?” I trembled all over, my limbs stiff. It felt like being thrown naked into the snow in the dead of winter, needing all my strength to breathe. The woman in front of me was beautiful and radiant, her smile bold and generous, like a kind and pure, high-born princess. But I knew, beneath this facade was a heart of pure malice! Spilled food, foul-smelling water, never-ending taunts and bullying, reckless insults and rumors… How could it be her? It was her! I used all my strength to keep standing. Then I asked Jasper, who stood beside me, “Did you know she led the bullying in high school?” Beatrix stood to the side, smiling. Her expression was gentle, but her eyes held a hint of mockery. Jasper avoided my gaze, speaking nonchalantly, “Really, that happened? I don’t really remember…” At that moment, I understood Jasper’s expression, my heart was clear. I shook my head, tears welling up as I corrected him, “You clearly remember, you clearly know.” But your heart has gradually drifted away. Jasper frowned, “Beatrix is a bit straightforward, but it was just kids playing back then. Lydia, don’t be so sensitive. Besides, why would Beatrix target you? Did you do something wrong first?” The scars he had seen, now dismissed as “sensitive.” He even turned it around, asking if I was at fault first. I once thought the most precious thing in the world was sincerity. But it turns out, sincerity can change. “Jasper, you really make me feel sick.” Though my heart felt like it was being torn apart, I was more determined than ever, “Let’s break up.” Jasper’s face turned cold instantly, his eyes filled with gloomy anger. “Break up?” he sneered, “Lydia, who do you think would want you besides me?” My face was pale, my head throbbing, and I hurriedly turned to leave. “Lydia, don’t regret it!” I won’t regret it. Jasper, I may be weak, but I never regret.

Outside, Finn was still there. His mouth moved, saying something. But my ears were ringing, my steps unsteady, I couldn’t focus on him or think straight. I could only respond unclearly, “My ears, hurt, can’t hear.” The hearing aid was useless. Finn’s eyes showed worry, and something else I couldn’t understand. I didn’t have time to decipher it before I fainted. I had a dream. The dream was chaotic yet familiar. A woman lay in a bathtub, gently beckoning to me. I called “Mom” and ran to her, hearing her sigh, “It would be nice if you couldn’t hear anything.” How could not hearing be good? Mom, I don’t understand. As I got closer, I realized her skin was gray, the bathtub filled with blood. The cold floor was littered with empty pill bottles. I stepped back a few steps, falling down the stairs. Since then, there was no sound in my ears, the whole world seemed quieter than a cold winter night. Looking up, the scene changed suddenly, but the empty pill bottles remained at my feet. Someone picked one up, pouring out a few pills, chewing them like beans. I cried and lunged at him, snatching the pills from his hand, “This is bitter. Little brother, let me give you candy, okay?” He took the candy, silently weeping, not speaking. The scene shifted again, a well-dressed, beautiful young girl curled her lips and said to the person next to her, “The little deaf girl is always so dull, really boring. Cut her dress.” Suddenly someone from behind grabbed my hand. I couldn’t hear his voice, only felt his palm so warm and strong. Hope and joy rose in my heart, I turned and called out, “Jasper!” He affectionately ruffled my hair, smiling brightly. “` I broke into tears and rushed over, snatching the pills from his hand: “These are bitter. Let me give you some candy instead, alright?” He accepted the candy, silently shedding tears, without a word. The scene shifted. A beautifully dressed girl smiled and remarked to the person beside her, “That Little Deaf Girl is always so out of it, it’s boring. Let’s cut her dress, shall we?” Suddenly, someone grabbed my hand from behind. I couldn’t hear his voice, but his touch was warm and reassuring. Hope and joy filled me, and I turned around, shouting, “Jasper!” He affectionately ruffled my hair, his smile bright and cheerful. But in the next moment, his eyes turned cold, and he pushed me forward! I fell into the searing lava. Burning, pain, fear, confusion. I couldn’t escape. Everything blurred, and I felt parched. Suddenly, there was a soft, moist sensation brushing my lips, bringing a calming coolness. I clung tightly, like a child desperate for candy, refusing to let go once I had it. I kept savoring, seeking every drop of that moisture. But the coolness quickly turned into heat, accompanied by deep breaths and an overwhelming affection. “It’s hot.” I frowned, trying to pull away. “Apple Girl…” Someone called softly. I stubbornly moved aside. That person sighed, helpless yet indulgent, filled with tenderness. When he returned, he carefully wiped my forehead, hands, and feet with an alcohol-scented wet towel, repeating the process over and over. Until I escaped the nightmare and fell into a peaceful sleep. I woke up the next day. I was at Finn’s Suburban Villa. He explained, “I was worried the emergency room couldn’t take care of you at night, so I took the liberty of bringing you here and called my Family Doctor.” I nodded and then heard him say, “Miss Lydia, I’m hosting a dinner party here tomorrow. Would you be my date?” I instinctively wanted to escape, “I want to go back to school. My Thesis Project isn’t finished yet…” Finn thought for a moment, looking very serious: “This is the suburbs, you won’t find a ride. “Considering the fluctuations in your hearing condition, I can’t let you drive back yourself. That would violate the Traffic Safety Laws.” … He was right, and he took care of me so well yesterday. I couldn’t say no, so I asked cautiously, “Will Jasper come tomorrow?” “Do you want to see him? If you don’t…” “No, no!” I quickly waved my hand, “It’s fine.” Finn was kind enough to look after me when I was unwell. How could I cause a rift between brothers? Finn didn’t speak. After a long time, he chuckled lightly, his laugh a bit cool, making his gentle yet aloof eyes seem elusive. “Alright,” he said, “If you want, I’ll let him come.”

The Finn Family truly lived up to their reputation as the elite of the Southern Estate. The scene was lavish, with the scent of perfume and the clinking of glasses. The only downside was running into Beatrix. With no one nearby, she dropped her gentle facade: “You talk about breaking up with Jasper, yet you’re still trailing him like a lost puppy. “Lydia, do you even belong at a place like this? Do you deserve it?” I didn’t want to get tangled up with her, so I turned to leave. A vicious glint flashed in Beatrix’s eyes. She suddenly grabbed my hair and pulled me back: “Did I say you could leave? It’s been years, and you’ve grown bold.” I was shaking with anger, gripping Beatrix’s hand tightly. My nails left clear scratches on the back of her hand. Beatrix cried out in pain, her anger intensifying. She violently let go of my hair, yanking off my hearing aid in the process. My gradually recovering hearing had already been lost due to previous stress. Without the hearing aid, I was completely deaf. “Stop!” I shouted, eyes red with anger, trying to stop her. But in the next moment, the hearing aid was crushed under Beatrix’s high heel, mangled beyond recognition. “You…” I was so furious I could hardly breathe, “You’re too much!” Beatrix smirked, “Oh, and what of it?” A fiery rage surged up, almost consuming me. I raised my hand and slapped her hard! “Jia Jia!” I heard Jasper shout from not far away. The commotion drew attention, and people started looking over. Beatrix stood there, stunned, with a bright red slap mark on her face. Jasper quickly came over, looking displeased. He shielded Beatrix behind him: “Jia Jia, what are you doing?” I replied coldly, “What am I doing? Didn’t you see?” Jasper sighed, softening his tone: “I know you came here for me. But you shouldn’t cause such a scene at an event like this. “Jia Jia, apologize to Beatrix, and I’ll forgive you, alright?” I was momentarily stunned. Then it dawned on me—he thought I went through all this trouble to reconcile with him. Can someone really be this shameless? “Jasper, I remember telling you.” I spoke each word clearly, “We’re already broken up.” Jasper’s eyes darkened, “Jia Jia, stop it. Apologize.” I almost laughed, “Jasper, do you want a slap too?” Jasper suddenly tightened his grip on my wrist, his expression filled with a gloomy anger. “Lydia, if you don’t give in, you’ll really have no chance.” In the next moment, someone laughed from afar. Jasper looked past me, his expression changing instantly. A man walked up leisurely, wrapping an arm around my shoulder. His voice was like an immovable force of nature, “In that case, remember to call her sister-in-law when you see her.” I’m sorry, but it looks like the text you want me to translate is missing. Could you please provide the Chinese text that needs translation?

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Three years after breaking up. I got back together with my childhood friend, Jasper. He treated me just as he always had, even more attentively than before. I was optimistic, hoping this time we’d have a happy ending. Until I unexpectedly walked past the next room. I overheard Jasper’s friends teasing him. “Didn’t you say you broke it off with Adeline? How can you face Phoebe like this?” Inside the room. Jasper, slightly tipsy, spoke clearly. I saw him gently pinch the neck of the girl beside him and laugh, “Stop with the nonsense. Make sure to come to the wedding next month.” The room was noisy and lively. But Jasper’s voice was crystal clear. I felt a chill run through me, leaning against the wall to stop myself from collapsing. The conversation inside continued. “You’d better behave. You finally won Phoebe back and convinced her to marry you. Don’t mess it up.” That was Finn, Jasper’s best friend. He’s also seen our on-and-off relationship over the years. Jasper waved it off, unconcerned. “What good is it to only advise me? Why don’t you tell her to keep her distance from her boss?” Finn kicked Jasper in annoyance. “Phoebe already said she didn’t date that guy during the three years you were apart…” “You believe her? Everyone at the company was gossiping about her and her boss, and I was the fool kept in the dark…” His voice grew more resentful as he spoke. “Working late every day, who knows if it’s at the office or in bed!” The words were harsh. The room fell silent. And there I stood outside the door, feeling my blood freeze. My whole body went cold, trembling uncontrollably. The workplace is already challenging for women. It was only because Gideon saw me as his junior that he gave me a helping hand. I believe I worked my hardest to earn my current position. I have no guilt towards anyone. But to avoid any misunderstanding from Jasper, I had explained everything clearly to him on the first day we got back together. Jasper had often said he trusted me and supported my work. But I never thought this was how he truly felt about me behind my back. And he used such hurtful words to tarnish me in front of his friends. If I hadn’t accidentally overheard this, was he planning to deceive me into marriage? That would be terrifying. At that moment, my brain acted faster than my heart. I swung open the door and walked straight up to Jasper. Before he could react. A loud “smack” echoed through the room. I slapped Jasper hard. The force was immense. Two seconds later. The girl beside him screamed and reached to touch his face, crying. But Jasper pushed her away abruptly. He stood up in confusion, trying to explain to me. “Listen to me…” “Jasper, we’re breaking up.”

I successfully closed a big deal tonight. I forced a smile, drinking myself into a stupor. I had planned to use this bonus for our honeymoon fund. But unexpectedly, I ended up overhearing his true thoughts. Fate really loves playing jokes on me. I shook my numb hand and stumbled towards the restroom. I looked up. Only to see my own eyes, empty and frightening. I washed my face with cold water. Trying to calm down. But no matter what, I couldn’t seem to dry the water on my face. My eyes grew redder and redder. The overwhelming sadness hit me like a tidal wave. I simply set a five-minute alarm. Squatted and cried it all out. When the alarm went off, I slowly calmed down. The dinner wasn’t over, the clients hadn’t left. Now wasn’t the time for me to indulge in my feelings. So, I sneaked back into the room when no one was looking. “Why were you gone so long?” Gideon, my boss who was sitting next to me, turned to look at me. His gaze was intense, as if he could see right through me. I panicked, avoiding his eyes, and lied casually. “I ran into an old friend, just exchanged a few words.” Gideon nodded, saying nothing more. Ten minutes later. The dinner was over. I breathed a sigh of relief. I thought I’d have to endure until midnight again, but it ended early. Great. I’d have more time to sort out my messy feelings. And it wouldn’t affect my work the next day. After seeing off the clients, I stood at the door with Gideon, waiting for the company driver. Out of nowhere. He pointed at my eyes and said calmly: “Get some rest when you get home, your eyes are red from exhaustion.” I was stunned. Just as I was about to say something, a shout interrupted me. “Phoebe!” Not far away. Jasper was staring at us angrily. “Was I wrong? If there’s really nothing between you two, why did you lie to me about him not being here?” Before I went out for the dinner. Jasper had asked if my boss would be there tonight. I said no because I really hadn’t been notified. But the client was difficult and insisted Gideon be there for the contract to be signed. So my colleagues had no choice but to call him over. But these words, facing someone who clearly didn’t trust me, I couldn’t say. I knocked his hand away from pointing at Gideon, coldly warning: “Jasper, this is between us, show some respect to others.” Jasper didn’t expect me to embarrass him in front of others. He gritted his teeth, saying okay repeatedly. “You want to break up with me because of him, right? “I’m telling you, I don’t agree!” With that, Jasper stormed off. I couldn’t hold back, wanting to chase after him and argue. But my wrist was suddenly grabbed. I turned around. And saw a complex emotion in Gideon’s usually calm eyes. “Is such a childish and ridiculous man worth your time over and over again? “Junior, did he save your life or something?”

Gideon is a year ahead of me. A well-known figure during my school days. Everyone who interacted with him praised his gentle and courteous demeanor. And in the three years working under him. He only got mad at me twice. Once when I first started. I endured harassment from a client to ensure the company signed a deal. He scolded me for not protecting myself. And now, for being upset over a man not worth it. But what Gideon doesn’t know is. Jasper really did save my life.

Jasper and I were neighbors. When he first moved in, he was only twelve. I was two years older. Once, a bunch of kids in the neighborhood were playing together. I walked by and was pushed into the river by some naughty kids. The river wasn’t deep. But to a fourteen-year-old me, it was dangerous enough. Those kids either froze in fear or ran away to avoid trouble. Only Jasper. With a “splash,” jumped in without hesitation. He struggled to pull me out of the water. Gave me CPR, chest compressions, everything. When I opened my eyes again. The first thing I saw. Was Jasper’s clear and pure eyes. That night, my parents went to thank Jasper’s family with gifts. Only to find Jasper being scolded by his parents. I learned then. Jasper had only taken three swimming lessons when he saved me. A slight misstep and we both could’ve drowned in that river. He was getting a stern talking-to but still greeted us warmly. “Sis, Uncle, Auntie, make yourselves comfortable…” Because of this life-saving grace, Jasper and I were always close growing up. As we hit puberty, that bond became even more apparent. I was the first to notice. After all, Jasper wasn’t someone who could hide his feelings well. When I called him out on it, he shyly confessed. “Sis, I’ve liked you since we were kids. “And I can tell you like me too. “Besides, we’ve already kissed, just say yes…” Flustered, I blushed and brought up his grades. “With grades like yours, no one will want you!” I didn’t expect Jasper to actually work hard because of what I said. His grades weren’t bad to start with, just a laid-back attitude. Once he put in the effort, the results were noticeable. But when he confessed again, I still turned him down. “Jasper, I don’t date early.” He wasn’t upset, confidently raising an eyebrow at me. “Alright, one day, I’ll stand beside you openly.” His confidence wasn’t misplaced. Because two years later, we really got together.

When he first started college, it was the freest time for us. We did everything couples love to do. Sweet gifts, surprises. Every day was a new expectation. But that’s when things started to change. Jasper was handsome, and he had a great personality. When he started college, many girls loved chatting with him. And he’d always smile back. The boundaries and sense of propriety between genders were hard for him to grasp. I caught him a few times, and we had many arguments over it, but it always ended with me sad and him feeling wronged. Jasper didn’t understand why I got upset over him just talking to someone. I didn’t understand why he couldn’t keep his distance. Frequent arguments and reconciliations wore us down. Jasper couldn’t take it and broke up with me first. He chose to study abroad. I used those years to grow rapidly, becoming the professional woman I always wanted to be. And that’s when Jasper came back. He came back with an engagement ring. … I stayed silent for a long time. Jasper couldn’t fathom why a few words from him would ignite such anger in me. I couldn’t grasp why he couldn’t maintain some distance from others. Even minor arguments, when frequent, can harm a relationship. We began breaking up and reconciling frequently, and in the end, we were both worn out. Jasper couldn’t endure it any longer and initiated the breakup. He decided to study abroad. During those years, I grew rapidly, becoming the career woman I had always aspired to be. It was around this time. Jasper returned. He came back with an engagement ring. … I was silent for a long time. Gideon released my hand and sighed quietly. “I’ll give you a three-day break to think it over.” I snapped out of my reverie and nodded tiredly. “Okay.”

Back home, I tore up the marriage leave request I had prepared a week ago. I started contemplating how to spend the next three days. Perhaps I was too exhausted today, too tired to dwell on those painful memories. The moment I hit the bed, I fell asleep. But my sleep was fitful. Fragments of memories about Jasper kept surfacing in my dreams. I even dreamed of the girl sitting next to him. Her name is Adeline. She was a work-study student whom Jasper sponsored while abroad. After we got back together, we confessed about the three years we spent apart. I hadn’t dated anyone. Jasper had behaved, focusing on his studies overseas. But Adeline was an exception. Jasper said her resilient look reminded him of me, which was why he chose to sponsor her. Over time, they developed feelings for each other. Jasper said they briefly dated. But Adeline couldn’t replace me. In the end, he chose to break up and come back home to try and win me back. That was when, on impulse, I accepted his proposal. And he completely cut ties with Adeline. But then the scene shifted. I dreamt of him gently caressing Adeline’s neck. Such an intimate and natural gesture—how could that be considered “cutting ties”? Jasper hasn’t changed from the start. The dream took a darker turn at this point. I suddenly opened my eyes, like being enveloped in a shroud of mist. I woke up at four in the morning. There wasn’t much of Jasper’s stuff at home. Most of it, along with mine, had already been moved to the new house. We had spent a month after he came back looking at numerous places before we found one we both liked. Now, my only solace is that he paid for the house in full. We haven’t divided any assets yet. Thinking about this still dampens my spirits. When Jasper first returned, I genuinely planned to make things work between us. I thought we could be more accommodating, make some compromises. After all, we loved each other for so long. And found it so hard to forget each other. But when Adeline appeared by his side again. When those harsh words came out of his mouth. I realized how foolish I was. Jasper is still the same Jasper. He can’t be accommodating, can’t make compromises. He can’t even promise love. While I was lost in thought, my phone rang. It was Finn. I smirked bitterly. For years, every time Jasper and I argued, he’d come later to mediate. But after yesterday’s big fight, I’m curious about what more he could say. “Phoebe, I won’t interfere in your matters anymore, but I hope you two can fully talk things through before breaking up, so there won’t be any regrets later.” “How could there be regrets? Anything discovered before marriage should be seen as a blessing.” I spoke softly. Finn was silent. After hanging up, I lay on the sofa for a while. I really should talk to Jasper. My parents need an explanation. But I couldn’t reach Jasper’s phone. I remembered he had set up location sharing on my phone when we reconciled. I found it on my phone and checked. He was at the hospital. I didn’t think much of it. I packed a few things and took a cab there. I only had two and a half days of leave left; I needed to settle this quickly. The location sharing was precise; it pinpointed the building and the floor. I followed it to the hospital room. And unexpectedly heard Adeline’s familiar voice. “Jasper, it hurts.” In the room, Jasper was facing away from me. He rubbed Adeline’s head, sounding apologetic. “Sorry, I won’t let you get hurt again.” Adeline responded by wrapping her arm around his waist. She smiled gently. “I’m not blaming you.” This scene would make anyone think they were a loving couple. Even I felt dazed. But I’ve really grown a lot in these three years. Not even ten hours had passed since we tore into each other last night. I could suppress the heartache and knock on the door without flinching. “Jasper, come out for a second.” 8. Jasper came running after me, breathless as he tried to explain. “Yesterday, when I pushed Adeline away, she got hurt, so I took her to the hospital.” He held onto me, his voice thick with emotion. “Phoebe, I was terrible yesterday.

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At the product launch event, my stepson pulled off my dress in front of everyone. hat day, the trending topics were filled with photos of me trying desperately to cover myself. He smugly held up his phone: “Just a stand-in, and you think you can have both a family and a career?” “Since you’re using my mom’s eyes, you should stay home and be a servant!” The cruel comments online were hard to read, but nothing hurt more than the cold, hateful look from Asher Thompson. Twenty years ago, I had no choice when I was abducted. Twelve years ago, when my biological parents found me, I had no choice. Eight years ago, I had no choice when I was married off as a stand-in for my foster sister to Declan Thompson. But now, I want to make my own choice. I won’t continue down this path with you. 0 I quickly wrapped myself with a tablecloth, fumbling to end the live stream. Asher smirked, satisfied: “This is what you deserve for causing my mom’s death. This is your punishment!” “Letting you live without making you pay with blood is already merciful!” He was only eight years old, so it’s clear where he learned such words. I frowned and explained, “Your mother’s death had nothing to do with me.” Years ago, my foster sister Adeline Carter died in a drunk-driving accident; I wasn’t even there. Asher’s expression showed a hint of guilt. He kicked the table and stormed off, his face full of anger. In the past, I would have chased after him, patiently explaining. But now, I silently returned to my room. I didn’t expect to find all the clothes prepared for the event slashed and torn, scattered on the ground. Especially the Xiangyun silk dress ordered by a client—it was completely destroyed. The fabric was out of stock and couldn’t be quickly remade. Behind me, I heard Asher’s gleeful laughter. He held a pair of scissors, looking menacing: “Nora Carter, who told you to take my mom’s eyes?” “I want you to know what it’s like to lose something.” He plunged the scissors into a cloth doll on the table, his eyes filled with malice. I stood amidst the destruction, speechless as I watched him leave. Years ago, after being abducted for over a decade, I returned home, only to find Adeline had already won everyone’s hearts. The home I longed for was not as warm as I imagined. After her death, my mother sent me to the Thompson family. Declan’s only request was for me to bear the child for him and Adeline. At 30, I’ve never known the love of family. The child I carried for ten months and raised for eight years now sees me as an enemy. My eyes felt dry and painful; my heart seemed encased in ice. I kneeled to clean up the mess. A pair of feet stopped in front of me. Looking up, I saw Declan Thompson with his eyes downcast, sighing. His gaze was gentle, but his voice was cold and distant: “Nora, you were wrong from the start.” He extended a hand to me as if offering charity: “Asher is only eight years old; he needs your full attention.” As I stood up, the torn fabric fell again to the ground. Declan’s gaze softened, maybe pitying my futile struggle. “You should cherish Adeline’s eyes. I’ve seen you stay up late to design sketches. What if you damage her eyes?” “Take this opportunity to close your online store. I’ll help with the compensation.” His hand caressed my face, intensely staring into my eyes: “Be good. You know why I keep you around.” Of course, I understood. Because of these eyes that once belonged to Adeline Carter. Someone can love another so obsessively. Every time we were intimate, he wouldn’t let me close my eyes. Through me, he was looking at another woman. I served them wholeheartedly for eight years but never warmed their hearts. He pulled me into his embrace, his hot breath on my neck. “Nora, if you’re really lonely.” “I might allow you to give me a child.” His lips were warm and soft, landing on my cheeks and lips. Though his embrace was burning hot, I felt like I was in an ice cave. Back then, Declan didn’t want to accept me. But my mother said Adeline had frozen her eggs early, and I could be the incubator for their love child. Only then did Declan agree. Later, when he drunkenly pinned me down, his first words upon waking were: “Don’t dream of having my child; you’re not worthy.” He watched me take birth control pills again and again. Now, eight years later, faced with his rare generosity, I didn’t feel grateful. Instead, I turned my head away from his kiss. “The eight-year term is up.” “Declan Thompson, it’s time for me to leave.” 0

After the interruption, Declan’s expression turned angry: “Just because of a torn dress?” “Asher is only 8 years old; he’s still a child!” “You’re supposed to be his mother. I haven’t asked what you’ve done in these eight years to make him hate you so much. And you have the nerve to throw a tantrum?” Mother? How am I even qualified? I’m not even his lover; just a surrogate tool, something to satisfy his needs. There are too many who could replace me. Back then, he was engaged to me but fell for my foster sister Adeline. He declared that even if I was found, he would only marry her. Declan arranged a grand proposal, pledging eternal love amidst everyone’s blessings. But later, Adeline suddenly died in a drunk driving accident. My parents didn’t want to give up the alliance with the Thompson family. Seeing Declan’s deep sorrow, they came up with the plan to send me into the Thompson household. I had suffered abuse from my adoptive parents, nearly losing my sight. So my mother had Adeline’s corneas transplanted to me. Declan was obsessed with Adeline and wanted a child related to her. Because of my eyes, he agreed to take me in. We agreed that I would stay with him for eight years, raising Asher, and then I could leave. No wedding dress, no ceremony, not even a marriage certificate. From beginning to end, no one asked if I was willing. I lowered my eyes and said calmly, “I’m not throwing a tantrum.” “We agreed on eight years from the start.” “Staying with you without a name or status also delays you from finding someone new. ” Declan relaxed his brows, his tense body also easing a lot: “Nora. ” He sighed, gently coaxing: “You’re making a fuss just to get a title, right?” “If you’re obedient, this time, if you give me a son, I might consider marrying you.” “No.” As a child, I was abused by my foster parents, not even getting enough to eat. After being found, I was like air in the Carter family, just a tool for use. I’ve never been loved. How could I bear to bring a child into this world to suffer? I stepped back, taking out a prepared document from my bag. “I’ve organized all the recipes on a USB drive.” “Asher’s preferences, study progress, extracurricular arrangements, I’ve detailed everything.” “Asher has grown, and now he hates me so much. Staying would only affect his growth.” “You should find a good tutor to teach him.” Declan grabbed my chin, cracks appearing in his gentle facade: “Nora Carter, since when do you get to decide?” He took the USB drive and smashed it against the wall, shattering it, pieces scattering everywhere. His long fingers slowly tore the remaining papers. Expressionlessly, he said: “Don’t test my patience.” “For raising Asher and for your eyes, I’ll let this go.” “When you get back, close the online store. You can’t leave the house this month!” He opened the door, coldly instructing his subordinates: “Send her home immediately. Keep a close watch on her.” On the way home, we passed a park where many parents were flying kites with their children. The kites seemed to soar into the high sky, but they were always tethered by a thin string. Before being sent to the Thompson home, my mom took me to a beauty salon to undergo procedures to resemble Adeline’s face. She instructed me on all of Adeline’s preferences, including her clothing style, favorite perfume, and foods she loved. I looked at the increasingly unfamiliar reflection in the mirror. Mom stood behind me, placing a jade bracelet on my wrist: “This was Adeline’s. Wear it to remind yourself what got you into the Thompson family.” “Don’t feel wronged. The Thompson family is worth billions. Many would do anything to be by his side.” “Remember, this is your leverage to stand firm in that family.” “Once you become Mrs. Thompson, you’ll thank me.” I was obedient, mimicking Adeline’s every move. Declan was pleased with me over the years. That’s why he allowed me to start my online store and design. But a fake can never become real. Charity can be easily withdrawn. … I was just about to head upstairs. A bucket of dirty water fell from above; Asher stood on the steps, laughing wildly: “Nora Carter, does my pee smell good?” “If you don’t leave my house, next time I’ll make you eat shit, believe it or not!” Covered in filth, the servants all stood aside, watching the show. He was very proud of his prank, forgetting all the teachings I had given him. When my mom visited during my postpartum period, she said: “Even if he’s not your blood, you carried him. Raise him well, and you’ll reap good in your old age.” The moment I held the tiny baby in my arms, my heart softened completely. In the ordinary, mundane times, I had an unwarranted hope. Now, the falsehoods have ended. It’s all become empty. 0

“Stay at my house any longer, and next time, I’ll make sure you regret it!” I was covered in dirt, and the servants stood by, amused by the spectacle. He was pleased with his prank, forgetting everything I had taught him. When Mom visited during the postpartum period, she said, “Even if he’s not your flesh and blood, he’s still the child you raised.” “Raise him well, and you’ll find comfort in your old age.” When I held the tiny baby in my arms, my heart melted completely. In those ordinary moments, I allowed myself hopes I shouldn’t have. Now, the illusion has shattered, leaving nothing but emptiness. 03 I clenched my fists, looking up at him: “Asher Thompson, don’t underestimate small misdeeds. Have you forgotten already?” Then I saw a woman, scantily dressed, lazily emerge from Declan Thompson’s room: “Nora, Asher is still young. It’s normal for him to be a bit mischievous. Don’t be too harsh.” Asher immediately leaped into her arms: “Aunt Rosalie, you’re the only one who’s good to me. You have no idea what I’ve endured these years.” “I heard after she was abducted, she lived in a pigsty every day. No wonder she always smells bad!” “Not like Aunt Rosalie, who’s always fragrant and soft.” My heart tightened. Back then, I rarely had a full meal at my foster parents’ house, and my health was always poor. Even at the Thompson house, I fell ill frequently. Declan Thompson disliked me, and the servants at home didn’t treat me well. Only little Asher Thompson would sneak into my room at night, stuffing handfuls of candy into my hands. “Aunt Nora, eat this. Candy will make the pain go away.” His tiny hand covered the scars on my body, and in his childish yet determined voice, he said, “When I grow up, I’ll beat up the bad guys for you!” Back then, how could I have imagined that the little one who promised to protect me would grow into a blade that hurts me? The onlooking servants didn’t bother to lower their voices: “Didn’t they say she was making a fuss about leaving? How does she have the face to come back?” “Ha, she’s just trying to pressure Young Master Aiden into marrying her. Don’t you get her little scheme?” “Young Master Aiden never planned to marry her. Her mother practically forced her here. Not even asking for a title, and she’s been with him for eight years. If it were my daughter, I’d have broken her legs and thrown her out.” Rosalie Summers is supposedly Declan Thompson’s secretary, but she’s really his kept woman. She looked at me with a mocking smile: “Nora, holding onto something that doesn’t belong to you is exhausting.” I lowered my gaze and ignored her. As I was heading upstairs, the door suddenly opened. Mom walked in, her face turning cold at the sight of me. “Why do you look like such a mess?” She pushed me into a room to clean up. Through the bathroom door, her voice sounded all too real: “Nora, it’s enough to throw a little tantrum. Do you really think you’re Adeline Carter, threatening Declan Thompson with leaving?” “How can you be so foolish, letting some outsider outdo you so easily?” Seeing my continued silence, she yanked open the bathroom door. Water sprayed down, blurring the line between tears and water on my face. “Mom, but I’m not doing well.” Mom paused, and I wrapped a towel around myself, walking past her. She grabbed my wrist and slapped me hard. “Nora, are you awake now?” “Understand your position. Without Declan Thompson, you have no education or skills. How will you survive?” I covered my face, tears streaming down. Seeing my unresponsive state, Mom softened her tone, reaching for my hand: “Nora, what mother doesn’t care for her child? I’m doing this for your own good.” “Your dad’s company relies on the Thompson family’s support to stay afloat. Our family just bought a villa, and there’s still a few million in loans to repay.” “Your brother and sister-in-law are about to have their third child. It’s a time when money is needed. If you offend Declan Thompson now, are you trying to send our whole family to ruin?” “Asher is just a kid, no matter how harsh his words. Deep down, he must still remember your kindness. You’ve taken care of him for eight years. Even if you raised a dog, there’d be feelings. Just coax him well, and he’ll surely come around.” When disappointment reaches its peak, the heart no longer feels pain. Deep down, I knew she never truly loved me. But after being abducted and harshly treated by my foster parents, I clung to memories of my birth mother holding me. Thinking of it often enough, it became a faint glimmer of light. But falsehood is still falsehood. When I let go of my obsession and burst this illusory bubble, the hidden grim reality emerged. I pulled out the suitcase I had long prepared. “Mom, I’ve never had a choice in my life.” “But now, I want to make a choice for myself.” “I won’t accompany you on the road ahead.” I yanked open the door. Declan Thompson stood there, his brows furrowed, eyes simmering with barely contained anger: “Who gave you permission to leave?” I’m sorry, but it seems that the text to be translated was not provided. Could you please provide the text for translation? 04 He massaged his temples, as if dealing with an unruly pet. Half-heartedly, he tried to reason with me: “Why are you suddenly being so stubborn? Apart from your parents, there’s your brother, sister-in-law, and their two kids. Where would you even stay if you went back?”

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Graduation felt like it led straight to unemployment. To make ends meet, I decided to alter my educational background to show I only finished middle school and entered the housekeeping industry. On my first day, I unexpectedly witnessed what could be described as a high-society family drama. The 9-year-old daughter, attempting to frame her 6-year-old brother, actually jumped off the stairs… 1 Her little scheme, naturally, didn’t succeed. Besides me, the surveillance cameras captured everything clearly. The young lady was fighting with her brother over something, couldn’t get her way, and ended up falling down the stairs herself. As a result, her mother, my employer, left her in the hospital without even visiting. The other maids in the house, disliking her behavior, pushed the responsibility of caring for her onto me. I hadn’t even moved into my dormitory yet and was already staying at the hospital. She cried from evening until morning, making my head throb. I wanted to give up, but my financial situation said otherwise. If I left now, finding another job as good as this one would be impossible. Free meals and lodging with a good salary. At least, at least I should stay until my debts are paid off. I had to figure out a way to mingle with the other maids and gather some information. “I’ve never seen such a troublesome child. When her brother enters her room, she burns it down to blame him.” “Her dad brought cookies from abroad, and when her brother unknowingly ate them first, she almost strangled him.” “She can’t stand it when her parents praise her brother. Whenever they do, she hits him.” “Back in our hometown, a girl like that would have been dealt with harshly.” These comments made me uncomfortable. Suddenly, a voice came from behind me: “So what if I’m that vicious person?” I was so startled that I dropped my phone and turned around to find her standing behind me, eyes swollen from crying and glaring at me. She tried to kick me: “You, a mere servant, dare to gossip about me behind my back.” “Believe it or not, I can have you fired.” I managed to dodge her kick just in time. But she slipped and fell. Suddenly, her cries were deafening. I quickly helped her up, holding her gently to calm her down. I thought she’d make an even bigger scene. But she calmed down unexpectedly. I looked down in surprise to see her snuggling in my arms, looking very docile. When she noticed my gaze, she looked up and met my eyes. She immediately looked down. Then she reacted and shouted fiercely at me: “What are you looking at?” “Believe it or not, I’ll gouge your eyes out.” Why is such a young girl learning lines from TV shows? I found it a bit amusing and carried her back to the ward, pressing the call button to get a doctor to check her. The good news was she wasn’t seriously hurt. The bad news was she claimed to be in pain and insisted I massage her, or she’d report it to the family. When Mrs. Taylor came to deliver food, she saw me massaging her leg. My hands were sore, alternating between my left and right hands. One hand massaging, the other shaking. Mrs. Taylor set the food down and gave me a look. I made an excuse to wash the dishes and met Mrs. Taylor outside. Mrs. Taylor immediately said with a disdainful expression: “If you hold her like this now, she’ll make a fuss if you don’t hold her next time.” I found it a bit strange. But I didn’t agree with Mrs. Taylor, just gently refuted: “Kids need affection, right?” 2 It didn’t seem like a big deal. But Mrs. Taylor gave me a knowing look, said nothing, and left. I was completely confused. I decided not to take Mrs. Taylor’s words to heart. As long as I appeared conscientious in front of others, that was enough. I returned to the ward to feed the young lady. She was indeed quite picky. Not only did she want me to feed her, but she also nitpicked: “Oh, I don’t eat onions.” “Why aren’t there any drumsticks? Asher must have eaten them.” “I’ll give him a piece of my mind when I get back.” I coaxed her while feeding her: “Then you can’t be picky.” “A balanced diet will make you strong enough to stand up to your brother.” Hearing this, she widened her eyes at me: “Aren’t you advising me to let Asher off the hook?” I looked innocent: “Why should you let him?” She frowned: “Everyone says it’s because I’m the older sister.” With an indignant look on her face, she said: “Why?” “Yeah, why?” I guided her: “You’re a few years older than him and will always be.” “Does that mean you have to let him have his way forever?” Hearing this, she got interested, looking at me with shining eyes: “Not bad, not bad, I like you.” “From now on, you’re on my side.” I found it amusing; she’s just a kid. I figured out how to handle her. As long as I hug her, tell her fairy tales, and agree with her. This young lady isn’t so hard to please. After three days in the hospital, the doctor confirmed she didn’t have a concussion and issued a discharge notice. I took her home, where there was an invisible hostility towards her arrival. Her mother frowned when she saw her, turned around, and left with her younger son. Other maids whispered when they saw her. Their eyes were full of undisguised disdain and disgust. Just as she was about to throw her toy at someone, I quickly grabbed her hand. I squatted down and gently advised: “Don’t you love the little rabbit?” “If you throw the rabbit, it will get hurt.” Hearing this, she quickly hugged the rabbit, stroking it continuously. I sighed inwardly, feeling sorry for her and worried she’d cause trouble and implicate me. I heard that whenever she caused trouble, a maid would be fired. I took her to her room. Because she previously burned her own room, she now lived in a narrow, windowless utility room. There was no light, and it had a strange smell. No exaggeration, my dorm was much better. Oddly, she showed no discomfort but placed her rabbit toy on the bed. Carefully covering the rabbit with a blanket. I opened my suitcase and tidied up her room. A voice came from above, sounding uneasy: “This is my mom’s punishment for burning the room.” “When she calms down, she’ll let me move back to my original room.” “She doesn’t dislike me.” I looked up at the little girl. She tried to act indifferent, not looking at me. But she was gripping the blanket tightly. I pretended not to see her stubbornness, casually saying: “Yeah, yeah, as long as you know it was wrong.” “Burning the room is dangerous. If something happened to you, how would your mom cope?” Out of the corner of my eye, I saw her sigh in relief. I think she also needed someone to affirm that her mom loved her, right? 3 The dark and damp room was really not suitable for living. Even though I cleaned it three times a day and used all sorts of effective pest control products, she always had some bug bites on her. Her fair skin was covered in red, swollen marks, with blood faintly visible beneath. I advised her: “How about you sleep with me at night?” “Staying in the employee dorm, you’re still being punished.” She was obviously tempted, but she stubbornly shook her head: “No, I have to let mom calm down.” “If I go to you, mom might think I’m disobedient.” Just then, Mrs. Johnson passed by, clicking her tongue disdainfully: “If she’s so obedient, why does she always anger her mom and hit her brother?” The little girl bit her lip, a look of grievance appearing on her face. Just as anger appeared on her face, I quickly scolded Mrs. Johnson: “Mrs. Johnson, we’re just workers here; it’s not our place to meddle in the family’s affairs, right?” “Mr. and Mrs. don’t like us pointing fingers at their family matters, do they?” Mrs. Johnson snorted from her nose and swayed away. I turned back to the little girl, seeing her eyebrows knitted together, tears welling up in her eyes. “I really want to listen to mom.” “But I really, really don’t want to…” I hugged her, holding her tightly, telling her: “You did nothing wrong.” “My young lady is a very obedient and well-behaved child.” “It’s them who are unfair, always forcing you to give up your rights.” Her actions were indeed excessive. But a little girl, not wanting her brother in her room, had to resort to burning the room. She had to use the threat of strangling her brother to gain the right to share food equally. The ones at fault are clearly the parents. I’m just a housekeeper and can’t possibly criticize my employers. I can only do my best to make her life better. Decorating her room. Changing her night light to the cutest little rabbit. Placing jasmine flowers so she can sleep with the fragrance… Thunder roared in the middle of the night, and the temperature plummeted. Awoken by the noise, I saw a shadowy figure in the room. I screamed in fright. The figure screamed too. I turned on the night light. The little girl was holding a pillow, looking at me, wearing a thin nightgown, her face pale from the cold. I quickly got up, pulled her into bed, and wrapped her tightly in the blanket: “What’s wrong?” “Why didn’t you wear a coat? What if you catch a cold?” I couldn’t help but scold her. She sniffled and told me: “The noise is so loud, I’m scared.” Place some jasmine flowers by her bed so she can fall asleep with their comforting fragrance… In the middle of the night, thunder roared, and the temperature plummeted. The noise woke me up, and I saw a dark figure in the room. Startled, I screamed. The figure screamed as well.

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My son is an adrenaline junkie when it comes to travel. He proposed a trip to the vibrant, enigmatic Crimson Lake. The water there is extremely acidic, exuding a lethal presence. I was uneasy about it, so I accompanied him. But shockingly, my son pushed me into the lake. The water slowly ate away at my body, and I met a tragic end far from home. When I opened my eyes again, it was the day my son had suggested the trip. “Go ahead, my son, don’t worry. Mom’s got your back.” “Look at this, isn’t the scenery amazing?” The entire family was gathered in the living room, admiring the scenic photos my son had found online. That’s when I realized I had been reborn. Reborn on the very day my son suggested we visit the mysterious Crimson Lake in Cyprus. It’s beautiful but perilous; the water is highly corrosive. My mother-in-law glanced at me. She was concerned for my son’s safety too, but didn’t want to spoil his excitement and wanted me to be the one to voice concerns. That’s how it was in my previous life. After I gently advised him, my son and I had a huge argument. This time, I was eager for him to leave as soon as possible. “Son, I support your trip. You’re young, you should explore the world.” “Mom, you’re the best,” my son said, kissing me excitedly. My mother-in-law was surprised by my attitude and pursed her lips in disapproval. “Grandson, going abroad alone is too dangerous.” “Grandma, please, don’t meddle if you don’t understand.” In this house, my son ruled. One word from him, and my mother-in-law was silenced. My husband was glued to his phone, showing no interest in intervening. “Don’t worry, Mom. I’ll get Ethan the best communication gear, it’ll be safe.” My mother-in-law shot me a dirty look but kept quiet, afraid her beloved grandson might storm out.

I transferred twenty thousand yuan to Ethan to help him buy equipment. My mother-in-law didn’t dare criticize me openly but complained to my husband about my spending in private. Hugo and I started dating in college. We were at the same university but in different programs. We both interned in Beijing, dreaming of making it big in the city. But Hugo was naturally more laid-back. He disliked the fast-paced city life and took me back to his hometown. My mother-in-law believed I ruined her son’s promising future. For years after our marriage, she never treated me well. Things only improved slightly after Ethan was born. Ethan said twenty thousand wasn’t enough, so I immediately sent him another fifty thousand, making my mother-in-law furious. I just wanted Ethan to leave content. The travel companions he mentioned were local troublemakers. In my past life, they robbed me and tried to kill me to keep it quiet. To survive, Ethan followed their plan and pushed me into the lake. This time, I’m not going. Someone else will meet their fate at Crimson Lake. The more extravagant Ethan’s gear, the more likely they are to strike. Within a week, I had transferred nearly a hundred thousand yuan to Ethan. He was so pleased he nearly forgot himself, eagerly applying for his visa to Cyprus. “Your mom said she’s never been abroad and wants to go with you,” my mother-in-law suggested nervously on the day we applied for the visa. Ethan’s smile froze, his affectionate “loving mommy” demeanor vanished. “Ethan, I’m not going. I have to work overtime for the next two months, no time for travel.” Ethan’s expression softened, and he said to my mother-in-law with annoyance, “Grandma, can you stop interfering? I’m an adult now.” “Grandma is just worried about you.” “Worried, my foot. Don’t pretend to understand what you don’t.” Even though my mother-in-law spoiled Ethan from a young age, Ethan didn’t like her. I once thought he resented how she treated me, so he took it out on her. After being submerged in the dark red lake, I understood that Ethan only loves himself.

With my mother-in-law no longer causing trouble, Hugo decided to stir things up. During dinner, he suggested going with Ethan to Crimson Lake. He’s not concerned about Ethan’s safety. His reason for wanting to go is Fiona. Fiona is his junior colleague at the ship manufacturing plant. Although they refer to each other as “senior” and “junior,” their relationship has long exceeded those bounds. Whenever Hugo goes on a business trip, he buys the same local specialties for Fiona as he does for our family. When I asked him to bring me cosmetics, he even asked Fiona if she needed any. Even when Ethan broke his leg climbing and was in the operating room, he was worried about Fiona’s menstrual cramps. Hugo thinks I don’t know these things. But someone has already shown me their chat logs. Fiona can’t wait for me to file for divorce so she can officially be with her senior. Since she’s so eager, let them accompany Ethan to their demise. “I guess your dad’s department is organizing a team-building trip. You can show them around, and once there, you can explore separately.” Before Ethan could object, I quickly came up with a plan for them. This way, Hugo can openly take Fiona along. Ethan won’t resist too much either. “Mom’s at an age where she should also go with Hugo to see the world.” My mother-in-law, worried, naturally didn’t refuse when she heard this. The only one unwilling was Ethan. He still bore a grudge over my mother-in-law’s previous meddling. “Son, you’ll have to take care of dad and grandma. It’s hard work. I’ll transfer another ten thousand yuan to you.” At the mention of money, Ethan’s displeasure vanished instantly. He even promised to take good care of his dad and grandma. I took my mother-in-law to get passports and visas, counting down the days, hoping they’d leave soon.

Ten days before departure, Cora visited. Her face was bruised and swollen, clearly just beaten. She’s Hugo’s sister, married to a wealthy businessman. When she first got married, my mother-in-law bragged to everyone about how exceptional her daughter was and how great her husband was. It seemed Cora’s excellence could only be shown through marriage. Her husband indeed treated her well. He bought her designer bags and cosmetics, spoiling her like a princess. At that time, Cora would mock me, saying my attire screamed “poor.” She even had the maid bring me the trash they cleaned up, saying it was to broaden my horizons. She seemed to forget she was born into this “poor” family. Her father, in his sixties, still worked odd jobs on construction sites. He died in an accident, and the contractor compensated a large sum. That’s how the Aiden family’s life became comfortable. This house was bought with Hugo’s father’s life. “What happened this time?” My mother-in-law applied ice to Cora’s face, heartbroken. “He said I used his money to keep a gigolo.” Cora cried bitterly. She did have a history. Her husband worked long hours, leaving her alone at home. Over time, Cora got restless and indulged in nightclub services. She was caught in the act by her husband, beaten from the club to home. Since then, she’s been abused regularly and comes to my mother-in-law to cry. My mother-in-law, after comforting her, would only tell her to “endure.” This endurance lasted five or six years. During which, Cora was beaten to the point of miscarriage. My mother-in-law still wouldn’t let her divorce. This time, before my mother-in-law could advise her to endure, I quickly interjected. “Why don’t you also come along to relax, Cora?” Hearing she could go to Cyprus, Cora’s eyes lit up but slowly dimmed. “Traveling abroad costs a lot. I don’t dare use his money.” The wealthy lady who once looked down on me now worries about money. “Your sister-in-law has it. She’s very generous. Right, Blair?” The mother and daughter looked at me in unison. “If Cora wants to go, I can give another ten thousand yuan.” “Ten thousand! You gave Ethan so much, but only ten thousand for Cora!” When it comes to her daughter, my mother-in-law doesn’t mind spending money. “If ten thousand isn’t enough, I’ll give fifty thousand.” Go ahead, take it. After all, the money I give isn’t mine.

Landon got drunk and came demanding to take Cora back. Cora didn’t dare go out. My mother-in-law pushed me out the door. This suited my plan. I was afraid Landon would take Cora away, preventing her from going to Cyprus. Landon’s tantrums depend on the person. He only yells at Cora. In front of others, he’s a perfect gentleman. “Landon, Ethan is going on a trip, and Cora wants to go too. Don’t worry, the whole family will be there, Cora won’t act up.” “Is mom going too?” “Yes.” Hearing my mother-in-law would be there, Landon felt at ease. He knew his good mother-in-law would surely persuade his wife to reconcile with him. I easily put Landon into a taxi and sent him home. After dealing with Landon, I opened the door to see Cora with a pale face. Not from being scared by Landon. But because she secretly used my cosmetics. Since her affair, Landon controlled her allowance, forbidding her from buying nice clothes or using any cosmetics. In the past life, after I died, she gleefully rushed into my room, taking all my cosmetics and jewelry. Tonight, thinking she should dress up for the trip, she acted early. He was certain that his mother-in-law would persuade her daughter to make up with him. I easily got Landon into a taxi and sent him home. After dealing with Landon, I opened the door to find Cora with a ghostly pale face. It wasn’t Landon who scared her. She had used my cosmetics in secret. Since she had been unfaithful, Landon controlled her allowance, forbidding her from buying nice clothes or using any cosmetics.

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My grandmother is the wealthiest person in Country A, and I’m her only granddaughter. Yet, my two brothers let their mistress take my place. Before the centennial celebration of SkyRise Corporation began, Lydia took the seat meant for the corporation’s daughter and feigned sincerity as she said to me, “If it weren’t for the brothers insisting I bring you out into the world, a poor student like you would never set foot in SkyRise Corporation.” “Make sure you behave later and don’t cause trouble for me, or the brothers will have no mercy on you.” In my previous life, my brothers’ threats made me timid and submissive to Lydia. But now, I’ve been reborn. As Lydia continued her nonsense, I kicked her a meter away. “Who do you think you are? Lecturing me like that!” My reckless action immediately drew everyone’s attention. Finn rushed over to comfort Lydia, while Jasper slapped me twice. Seeing their treasured friend kicked away, my brothers were heartbroken and angrily glared at me. “Adeline, have you lost your mind, daring to hit our sister!” Looking at my aggressive brothers, I realized how foolish I was to ever think they felt sibling affection for me. Pointing at Lydia, whom they were protecting, I loudly mocked, “She’s just a mistress. Am I, the rightful daughter of the corporation and granddaughter of the wealthiest, not qualified to hit her?” Hearing this, Finn was instantly enraged and pushed me to the ground. “Adeline, Lydia kindly funded your education, yet here you are, spouting nonsense.” “Everyone here, listen up. Lydia is my grandmother’s real granddaughter and the true heiress of SkyRise Corporation.” I looked at Finn in disbelief. “She’s my grandmother’s real granddaughter? The heiress of SkyRise Corporation? “Finn, how dare you say such things? You have some nerve!” Jasper rolled his eyes at me disdainfully. “Adeline, did you forget to take your meds today? You’re losing it again.” Lydia then started to cry hypocritically. “It’s all my fault. I knew Adeline had mental issues, yet I still brought her here.” Their twisted dialogue was heard loud and clear by everyone in the hall. Suddenly, those around me looked at me with disdain. “So Adeline is just a poor student funded by the heiress, no wonder she’s so shabbily dressed.” “The heiress is truly kind-hearted to support someone mentally unstable and morally questionable.” Finn then called for Assistant Zach from the corporation. “Take Adeline out of here. Without my permission, she’s not allowed to step foot in the corporation again.” I looked at the assistant approaching with security. “Mr. Zach, you’ve been with my father for years. How can you not recognize the true heiress of the corporation?” Mr. Zach stopped in his tracks, stunned. “I… I…” Jasper glared at him displeased. “Mr. Zach, my brother is the future heir of the corporation. If you disobey his orders, are you looking to get fired?” Mr. Zach turned pale with fright, looking at me uneasily. “Miss, I have a family to support. Please, don’t make this hard for me. Come with me.” He signaled the security to drag me away. Seeing them closing in, I grabbed a vase from the table and threw it forcefully. “Not only am I the heiress of SkyRise Corporation, but I’m also the sole heir. Touch me if you dare!” The sound of the vase shattering and my furious voice echoed throughout the banquet hall. Hearing my declaration, those around me began to sneer. “Looks like she’s really lost it, pretending to be the granddaughter of the wealthiest, and now claiming to be the heir. Ridiculous.” “Even if she were the granddaughter, a woman wouldn’t inherit the corporation, especially since there are two grandsons.” Facing my arrogant brothers, I directly questioned them. “Finn, are you sure you and Jasper have the right to inherit?” Jasper’s eyes flickered for a moment but quickly returned to normal. He tugged at Finn’s sleeve. “Finn, today’s a joyous day. The elders will be here soon. Let’s just drop it.” Seeing Jasper’s reaction, I knew he remembered his background and was getting scared. After all, my grandmother, the wealthiest woman in Country A, only had my mother as her daughter. After my mother passed, I became her only granddaughter. My two brothers were merely the orphaned children of my father’s brother. When their parents died, my father couldn’t bear to see his nephews suffer, so he brought them into the family. They have no blood relation to my mother or grandmother and can’t possibly inherit the SkyRise Corporation founded by my grandmother. But Finn didn’t care about what I said. Instead, he frowned and glared at Jasper. “She just hit Lydia. Can you really let Lydia suffer?” “Adeline, it seems your condition has worsened. How about having the assistant send you to a mental institution?” Hearing those words, my chest filled with hatred. I remembered the pain of being in a mental institution in my past life, where Lydia extracted my blood and skin. Yes, in my previous life, Finn and Jasper conspired against me to win Lydia’s favor. They plotted and harmed me. Lydia, being a medical student, always had a desire. She wanted to see the differences between a living and a dead body. When my brothers found out, they assisted Lydia in dissecting me alive. Even though I grew up with them, living together for 18 years, they let Lydia impersonate me and helped her torture me. Now, I understand. In my brothers’ eyes, family means nothing. Only love matters to them. But now I’m curious. When love and power are at stake, how will my brothers choose? With this thought, I chuckled coldly. “I’m asking you for the last time, who is the true heiress and heir of SkyRise Corporation?” Before my brothers could answer, Celeste, the daughter of a business partner under the corporation, rushed out and slapped me. “Outrageous! A funded poor student dares to act out in SkyRise Corporation? Know your place.” I know Celeste because she’s not only been secretly in love with Finn but also dreams of marrying him to become the future chairman’s wife. Since she heard Lydia is the granddaughter of the wealthiest, the heiress of SkyRise Corporation, she’s been flattering Lydia for two months, trying to build a good sister-in-law relationship and appear as a good wife to Finn. But she’s flattering the wrong person. Lydia isn’t the heiress of SkyRise Corporation; she’s Celeste’s rival, and the mistress Finn has secretly supported for years. I wasn’t about to take Celeste’s slap for nothing, so I kicked her hard in the stomach. “Who do you think you are? A daughter of a third-rate company’s CEO dares to hit me! With one word from me, your family goes bankrupt.” Celeste clutched her stomach in pain, looking at me in disbelief. “Adeline, you dare kick me? My parents never even scolded me!” “Wait and see, I won’t let you off!” Lydia, feeling guilty, grabbed Celeste’s hand. “Celeste, don’t mind her. She’s not right in the head. I’ll apologize on her behalf.” I looked at Lydia disdainfully and sneered. “I think you’re the one who’s crazy. Giving up being a mistress to impersonate the heiress at such an important event.” I turned to my brothers, pointing at the door, and coldly said, “If you want to play role-playing games with your lover, then take your mistress and get out of my corporation!” My brothers glared at me, their faces dark. “Lydia, I’m telling you, we have real power in the corporation, while you’re still in school. If anyone leaves, it’s you!” “What’s going on here? Why are you all standing? Go take your seats.” A dignified, extraordinary middle-aged man squeezed in. He is Declan, the CEO of SkyRise Corporation, and my biological father. Yet, he hurried over to Lydia, raising his hand to wipe her tears. “Lydia, don’t cry. Who bullied you?” “Tell me, and I’ll stand up for you!” Finn angrily pointed at me. “Who else but Adeline, this impudent girl, would dare bully Lydia under my nose?” Hearing this, my father displeased, slapped me. “Adeline, you really have some nerve, taking advantage of others’ power to bully Lydia.” “Kneel and apologize to Lydia immediately, or you won’t get any living expenses for the next year.” Looking at my father, who blamed me without understanding the situation, I felt utterly disappointed. As expected, my father is just like in my past life, blindly favoring Lydia along with my brothers. Though I anticipated this, my heart still ached. I never understood why I, his daughter, was treated this way, while Lydia, just the brothers’ plaything, received his favor. “Adeline, you really have some nerve, daring to push Lydia around using someone else’s influence.” “Kneel and apologize to Lydia right now, or you can forget about receiving any living expenses for the next year.” Seeing my father blame me without knowing the full story filled me with disappointment. As expected, my father remained the same as in my past life, blindly favoring Lydia along with my two brothers. Although I had anticipated this, it still pained me. I never understood it before. I am my father’s daughter, yet Lydia was just a toy for my brothers. But once my father met Lydia, it was like he was bewitched by her. Especially after learning that both my brothers had been supporting Lydia, he was furious and punished them severely for an entire day and night. At that time, I even tried to intervene and defend them, but my father accidentally struck me twice. The marks from those strikes are still on my arm to this day. Afterward, my father not only forbade my brothers from supporting Lydia but even used his connections to get her into the best university in Country A. He also told my brothers that if they truly liked Lydia, they should compete fairly to win her hand in marriage. And whoever succeeded in marrying Lydia would inherit his fortune. In my past life, my father’s strange behavior piqued my curiosity, so I secretly investigated Lydia’s background. I later discovered that Lydia was the daughter of my father’s first love. Lydia resembled her mother, and my father recognized her immediately. The pull of a lost love is indeed powerful; just one familiar face was enough to capture my father’s heart. It’s sad for my late mother, who never knew that my father harbored feelings for another woman. Thinking of this, I looked at my father with a mocking smile. “I won’t apologize!” “But my brothers claimed Lydia is their sister, the heiress of SkyRise Corporation. Don’t you have anything to explain to everyone?” Upon hearing this, Lydia immediately looked at my father with teary eyes because she knew he couldn’t stand seeing her cry. As expected, seeing Lydia break down, my father slapped me twice more. “Explain what? They’re right; Lydia is my beloved daughter, the heiress of SkyRise Corporation.” Seeing my father lie so blatantly, I shouted at him in anger. “Declan, do you think you’re being fair to my deceased mother? Can you repeat what you just said with a clear conscience?” My father ignored me and looked at my brothers. “Throw this trash, who bullied your sister, out.” Looking at my cold and unfeeling father, my heart was filled with mixed emotions. Ha, is this the man my mother loved all her life? Is this the biological father I admired for 18 years? I think my mother never expected, while she was alive, that the two sons she kindly adopted would harm her beloved daughter for a mistress. And that her husband would not protect his own daughter but would instead throw her out for the child of his first love. At this moment, I truly felt sad for myself and my deceased mother. I lifted my head and met my father’s eyes directly, speaking coldly. “This is my family’s SkyRise Corporation; you outsiders have no right to flaunt here!” I deliberately emphasized “my family’s.” As soon as I finished speaking, my father was completely enraged. He ordered my brothers to come forward and hold me down tightly so I couldn’t move. “Yours? How laughable!” Then my father walked behind me, grabbed my hair, and smashed my forehead against the glass wall of the hall. “For years, I’ve been managing SkyRise Corporation. Why can’t it be mine, Declan’s? Why can’t I decide the heir?” I held back my tears and shouted firmly, “SkyRise Corporation belongs to my grandmother. I am the sole heir of the corporation!” “Bang, bang, bang,” my forehead was pushed against the glass wall again as soon as I finished speaking. My father continued to roar, “Adeline, stop dreaming. I gave SkyRise Corporation to Lydia as a dowry last year. Whoever marries Lydia will inherit SkyRise Corporation!” My father’s words shocked everyone present, and the way they looked at Lydia became even more intense. At this moment, an old and sharp female voice came from behind me. “Declan, dare to say that again! Who is the heir of SkyRise Corporation?” I’m sorry, but it seems that the text for translation is missing. Could you please provide the Chinese text that you would like to have translated? Chapter Four Upon hearing that familiar voice, Father and my two brothers immediately released me. As I looked at the elegant woman before me, the tears that had been welling up in my eyes finally spilled over. Ignoring the pain coursing through my body, I rushed into her embrace and clung tightly to her waist. “Grandma, I’ve missed you so much.”

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After five years of marriage, Zachary Smith turned our marital home into 99 themed rooms for his affairs. The models he brought back could open a nightclub in our house. I chose to turn a blind eye because of the child in my womb. Later, he personally dressed me in a princess gown and took the dolled-up me to the hospital to shave my head bald. All to make a sick little girl smile. I didn’t cry or make a fuss. Until our anniversary, when the little girl insisted on going skiing. Zachary forced me to be there as a human cushion for Lily. On the slopes, Lily deliberately crashed into me, sending me flying. Blood gushed from beneath me. I begged him to save our child, but he picked up the unharmed Lily and sneered at me: “Claire Johnson, you’ve lied more times than I’ve slept with you.” “If you’re hurt, find the medical staff. Don’t blame me for not acknowledging the child if you delay Lily’s fun!” On the way to the hospital, our baby died in my womb. Yet he let his friends laugh and bet on whether the child would survive. I closed my eyes in despair: “Zachary, let’s stop torturing each other. Let’s get divorced.” 0

When the doctor shook his head, I heard something shatter inside me. With trembling hands, I signed the death certificate. His friends rushed into my hospital room, cursing when they saw my swollen body. “Tch! How unlucky, we lost the bet!” “I told you Zach is a god. Look how bundled up she is, cherishing that child so much.” Hearing this, I forced a smile. With multiple fractures all over my body and my abdomen wrapped in bandages, I looked about five months pregnant. Zachary’s long fingers tapped on the table. He hadn’t looked at me once. Until there was a knock on the door and a document was thrown onto my bed. “Sign it! Just say how much you want!” “You’re a professional skier, not as fragile as Lily. A fall won’t kill you. Stop pretending, it’s getting old!” I looked at the “Voluntary Waiver of Injury Assessment” on the floor and laughed. “Zachary, the baby is dead,” I said, my eyes hollow. “What if I don’t sign?” He froze for only a second before bursting into laughter: “Trying to make me feel guilty? Do you think I’d believe you? Stop wasting time and sign. My dear Lily is waiting for me.” I stared at him, my face ashen. He had sat in the hospital room for half a day without once asking about my wellbeing. He was afraid I would hold Lily responsible. When he knew skiing was dangerous, he once used his life to make me quit the ski team. Now he forced his pregnant wife onto the slopes for Lily’s sake. Zachary’s eyes were cold, flashing with impatience. He dumped a whole package of cash on my head, stinging my face. “Is this enough? If not, I’ll give you more!” My fingers clutched my clothes tightly. Through the money, I saw my own humiliation. “Zachary,” my voice was hoarse, “let’s stop this. Let’s get divorced.” If you asked what my wish was at 22, it would have been to spend a lifetime entangled with Zachary Smith. But now I was truly numb. Zachary’s expression froze for a moment, then burned with anger. “I’ll let you go when I’m dead. You can only endure my torment!” His hand pressed hard on my wound, making me cry out in pain. He didn’t know how many steel pins were in my body, nor that I had nearly died. He certainly didn’t know the baby was already gone. I didn’t dare say it hurt. I couldn’t forget how last time I cried in pain, Zachary called me dramatic. He had switched my allergy medication for vitamins, nearly suffocating me in the elevator. “Claire Johnson, you’re using the wrong tactics. If you want to leave, cut out that child! If you think you can take the baby and run away, dream on.” “If you don’t dare, crawl on your knees to Lily’s room and apologize. Then I’ll forgive you.” I stopped in my tracks. My body felt filled with shattered glass, every movement cutting into my flesh. As soon as he finished speaking, his friends cheered excitedly. Just like years ago when our love was passionate and known to all. We had been through life and death together. Back then, I desperately protected him, nearly not waking up. He, who had never bowed his head, knelt before Buddha and transcribed scriptures in blood. Everything changed on our wedding day. There were no questions, no arguments. We quietly finished the ceremony. From then on, he found new ways to humiliate and torment me. Even our marital home that we designed together was completely transformed into themed rooms for his affairs. Going home felt like entering a sleazy motel. He forced me to clean the toys they had used, to tidy up the mess they left behind. Thinking of this, I looked at him with red eyes, pain overwhelming my reason. “Alright.” I didn’t want to live like this anymore. As I spoke, I shakily unzipped my coat. When I picked up the knife on the table, he stormed out, slamming the door so hard it made my whole body ache. After he left, his assistant came forward. “Mr. Smith instructed that you are to go serve in Miss Evans’ room. Otherwise, he can’t guarantee that person’s grave will remain undisturbed.” 0

I stopped mid-turn, tears welling in my eyes. “Let him do as he pleases.” I went to the cemetery and bought a plot next to his for our child. I knelt there for a long time, until I heard footsteps behind me. Zachary had his arm around Lily as he spoke with fake sincerity: “When you said ‘do as he pleases,’ you meant coming here to protect him yourself? Claire Johnson, what do you take me for? A plaything?” He shoved Lily aside and roughly yanked me up. “Since you’re so keen on protecting him, let’s see if you can.” In the struggle, my wig fell off. Lily screamed, covering her eyes. Zachary grabbed the back of my neck and shoved my face against the tombstone. “With your ghastly appearance, you still think you can be buried with him after death? Would he still love you?” I looked at the scattered tombstone, biting my lip until it bled. I did love him, but he was my brother. On our wedding day, I didn’t run away. I only wanted to see my brother in the hospital one last time. I tried to explain countless times, but in return he locked me in those themed rooms and made me watch as he had sex with others. He ignored me now, gently patting Lily’s back to comfort her. “Lily is so brave, don’t be scared. Doesn’t she look much better when she’s ugly like this?” The mocking laughter cut me to the core. Tears silently rolled down my cheeks as I touched the centipede-like scar on the back of my head. My heart felt like it was being sliced open. To protect him, my skull had been fractured, requiring 18 stitches. I never cried out in pain once. My prized long hair became a bald head, and I didn’t resist. All these sacrifices had become swords piercing my own heart. Noticing my movement, his hand clenched into a fist at his side. Lily stepped forward and hugged me, her eyes brimming with tears: “Sister, it’s all my fault. I shouldn’t have mocked you. I’m sorry.” After she spoke, she leaned close to my ear and whispered: “I did it on purpose that day skiing. Your child deserved to die!” My mind went blank with ringing. I lunged at her. Lily covered her ears, tears streaming down her face as she accused me of biting her ear to Zachary. But I hadn’t even touched her. Zachary exploded in anger, raising his hand to slap me hard. My ears rang and I tasted blood in my throat. Flames lit up before my eyes as Zachary held our photo in his hand. “Consider this my greeting to him!” He had the entire grave blown up, leaving not even a speck of ashes. I screamed hysterically, burning to ashes in an instant. I lunged forward like a madwoman. Zachary yanked me back hard. “Have you gone insane?!” I collapsed on the ground, all strength to struggle drained from me. That was my fool of a brother who raised me, my only family. Why would he do this to me? I had gone mad. A thousand words couldn’t compare to one sentence from Lily. The truth was right before my eyes. Why wouldn’t he even try to verify it? Did I really deserve to die? My throat burned with pain as I laughed dryly, falling backwards. When I woke up, Zachary was firmly holding down my arm. As the needle pierced my vein, I felt so numb I couldn’t even feel the pain. Then he had the doctor cut a piece of skin from my arm and throw it in the trash. I knew he was punishing me. This was nothing compared to before. He once forced me to buy sex toys for them, putting the hat that hurt Lily on my head. Letting her stab me with needles. Another time when I was pregnant and had a fever, I begged him to take me to the hospital. He thought I was faking illness out of jealousy to ruin their fun. He used the baby to force me to clean up after Lily. I still didn’t understand how two people who once loved each other could become like this. Even my brother, who I had relied on since childhood, was trampled on and slandered after death. With trembling hands, I took out my phone and dialed a long-unused number. “Hello, I’d like to arrange a sand burial.” 0

In our most carefree year, Zachary once said he wanted to become the most beautiful legend in an uninhabited desert. We decided on our final resting place at the most inappropriate age. But now… At the front door, the whole mansion glowed with colorful lights. I knew they were trying different themes again. I sat numbly on the steps, almost dozing off. A jacket that didn’t smell like Zachary was draped over me. “Why are you sitting here? Is Zachary misbehaving again?” When I looked up, I realized the distinguished man before me was Zachary’s uncle, Ian. I smiled bitterly and said: “Uncle Ian, can you help expedite my visa application?” The man just gave a low “Mm” in response. Early the next morning, Lily stood by my bed with her hands on her hips. She dumped a bucket of cold water on my face, her expression twisted and hideous. “Enjoy eavesdropping last night? Zach and I tried several new positions. He praised me for doing well and gave me this ‘Eternal Love’ jade bracelet. Last night we even used it to…” I suddenly looked up at her wrist. Tears fell uncontrollably. My brother had saved money for years, refusing treatment to buy that bracelet as my wedding gift. The thought of how they desecrated it made my mind explode. “Give it to me…” Lily narrowed her eyes and smirked, leaning close to my ear, “Want to bet?” The next second, she grabbed my hand and shoved her into the toilet, screaming dramatically. “Help! I won’t dare again!” Zachary rushed in and held me underwater in the bathtub until I nearly suffocated. Then he carefully took Lily into his arms, treasuring her. I watched as he gently kissed Lily, who was covered in dirty water. My pupils dilated. “Zach, this bracelet must be from someone important to Claire. If it could lead to death, I don’t want it anymore.” Lily burst into tears, sobbing uncontrollably. Zachary said nothing, just glared at me viciously. He carried Lily and rushed to the hospital. I swallowed the nausea rising in my stomach, my eyes stinging. Soon after, Zachary’s bodyguards took me to the hospital by force. They poured medicine into my mouth over and over, then pumped my stomach again and again. It was repeated over a dozen times until I collapsed in agony. Tears streamed uncontrollably as I vomited until I passed out. Next door, Zachary was telling stories to entertain Lily as she got an IV drip, making her giggle constantly. To coax her into getting her stomach pumped, he had all the world’s jewels brought to the hospital. I closed my eyes. He had once spent a year nursing my stomach back to health. Now it was completely ruined. Zachary came over with cold eyes. Seeing my reddened eyes, he clenched his fists tightly. “Claire Johnson, don’t think I won’t touch you. It’s just a stupid bracelet. I can buy you thousands to replace it.” I coughed up blood, letting the tears fall. “Zachary, would you only be happy if I died?” Hearing this, Zachary’s body froze for a moment. Then he looked at my abdomen and sneered: “Could you bear it? The child you schemed so hard to keep, could you bear to part with it?” I looked at the man before me who was impervious to reason. I no longer wanted to explain. Ignoring his furious rage, I pulled out the gastric lavage tube and left. Outside the hospital, Lily invited me into the car with a beaming smile. Zachary held Lily’s hand tightly, not sparing me a glance. The car reeked of tangerine peels. He didn’t give me a chance to get out. I opened the window. Zachary said coldly: “Close it. Lily’s pregnant and afraid of the wind.” My fingertips trembled. He knew how severe my allergies were. I stared at my phone expressionlessly. Zachary’s face darkened. Lily giggled coyly: “Don’t blame me, sister. I wasn’t feeling well so I asked Zach to set this up.” I replied to messages, occasionally rubbing my arm covered in red spots. As soon as we got out of the car, I clutched my stomach and retched violently until I was utterly exhausted.

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I noticed something strange about my wife sleeping next to me. She was unresponsive to my intimate gestures, like a dead fish. I thought maybe after years of marriage, she had lost her passion and excitement for me. That is, until I overheard my wife talking to her hot best friend: “My husband sleeps like the dead every night. You could put a corpse next to him and he wouldn’t even notice!” So my wife found a body double? 0 I woke up with a start, faintly hearing slight noises coming from the living room. It sounded like someone moaning and panting. In the pitch darkness, I couldn’t help but feel a chill run down my spine. Instinctively, I reached out to nudge my wife beside me. “Honey, I think there’s someone outside…” I pushed her a few times, but she didn’t respond, seemingly fast asleep. She must have been exhausted from the day, I thought. In the end, I decided not to wake her. I slowly got up, grabbing a vase from the nightstand for self-defense. Could it be a burglar? I tiptoed out of the bedroom, the living room pitch black. After some hesitation, I mustered up the courage to feel my way to the kitchen and grab a knife. Feeling slightly braver, I made my way to the light switch by the door and turned on all the lights. The living room suddenly lit up. I looked around but found nothing out of place. I checked the other bedrooms too, but there were no signs of intrusion. Even our valuables were untouched. I stood in the living room, bewildered. Had I imagined it all? The next morning, I woke up and went to the living room to find my wife already sitting at the dining table, a radiant smile on her face as she looked at me. “Good morning, honey! Come have breakfast!” My wife, Lily, was tall and curvaceous, with looks that could easily be described as stunning. We had a whirlwind romance, getting married after knowing each other for just a month. Despite the rushed nature of our marriage, our relationship had always been good. She stood by me as I went from having nothing to becoming the CEO of my own company. I became the envy of all the men in our social circle. After my business took off, she quit her job to become a full-time housewife. The only regret was that after six years of marriage, we still didn’t have a child to show for our love. We initially thought there might be some health issues, but medical check-ups showed we were both perfectly healthy. Perhaps it just wasn’t the right time yet. I sat down after washing up and took a bite of the warm sandwich. Remembering last night’s incident, I couldn’t help but ask her about it. Lily rolled her eyes and said impatiently, “Honey, were you dreaming?” I wanted to say more, but she had already gotten up, telling me, “Alright, you need to get to the office. Hurry up and eat! I’m going back for a nap. For some reason, I’ve been feeling really sleepy lately.” Lily stretched and walked past me towards the bedroom. I don’t know if it was my imagination, but I thought I caught a faint strange odor coming from her. Without thinking too much about it, I quickly finished my breakfast and headed to the office. The next night, I don’t know how long I had been asleep when I was once again startled awake. The panting sounds outside were even louder this time. I got up to check, but again found nothing missing. My scalp tingled with fear. Could it be not a burglar, but a ghost in our house? I’m an atheist, but at that moment, the only explanation I could think of, besides a haunting, was beyond me. However, for the next two weeks, everything seemed to return to normal. The eerie sounds never resurfaced. I thought the matter had come to an end, but little did I know it was just the beginning. One night, I had a vivid dream. In it, Lily and I were passionately intimate. But just as things were getting intense, I suddenly woke up. The lingering desire from the dream left my entire body feeling like it was on fire. I couldn’t help but snuggle closer to Lily’s body, softly calling out to her. “Honey, are you asleep?” Just like before, I called out to her many times, but she didn’t respond. It felt like lying next to a corpse. 0

But I was already too consumed by endless desire to let her be. I went from softly calling her name to shaking her vigorously. “Honey, wake up.” Just as my mind was starting to form some unpleasant suspicions, Lily finally showed a slight reaction. She mumbled in a faint voice, “Sleeping.” Of course, I wasn’t going to give up. I pressed closer to her body again, whispering in her ear, “Honey, it’s been so long since we’ve been intimate. How about we go wild tonight?” As I spoke, my hands started to wander. She didn’t refuse me, so I became even bolder in my actions. However, I vaguely felt that the skin I was touching was cold, unlike my wife’s usual soft and warm body. Moreover, the scent on her body seemed different from before, giving me a strange sense of novelty. But just as my hand was about to reach her peaks, she suddenly grabbed my hand. “No… not now, I need to take a shower first.” Before I could react, she had already scrambled out of bed, wrapped herself in the blanket, and stumbled out of the room in the dark. Watching this series of actions left me bewildered. But since she wanted to shower, I could only wait silently, hoping she would be quick. However, after waiting in the room for a long time, I was starting to doze off. So I got up, intending to go and hurry her along. Suddenly, I heard voices coming from the living room. To my surprise, there was another woman in the living room besides my wife Lily. It was Lily’s best friend, Rachel. I had met her a few times before. Rachel was equally stunning in terms of both figure and looks, certainly not inferior to my wife. Today, she was wearing only a thin T-shirt on top, which perfectly accentuated her flawless figure. She had on a pair of extremely short denim shorts, revealing long, snow-white legs. She was the type of beauty that would make anyone’s imagination run wild after just one glance. For some reason, Rachel’s expression didn’t look good, seeming to contain a hint of fear. “When did you get here?” I asked. Lily immediately linked arms with Rachel and said to me with a beaming smile, “She just arrived, honey. There’s been some disturbance downstairs at Rachel’s place lately. She couldn’t stand it anymore, so she came to stay with us for the night.” Hearing this, I nodded. I was about to turn and go back to the bedroom when I suddenly noticed something odd. “Hey, honey, weren’t you taking a shower? Why are you still wearing a dress?” Lily had said earlier that she was going to shower, but now she was wearing neither pajamas nor a nightgown, but a tight-fitting bodycon dress that she would wear to go out. She even had high heels on her feet. Lily rolled her eyes at my question and said impatiently, “Well, Rachel just called me to come down and let her in. I couldn’t exactly go down wrapped in a towel, could I?” I didn’t think much of it and turned to go back to the bedroom. The earlier feeling of arousal was gone, and considering how late it was and that I had an early meeting at the company tomorrow, I ended up falling asleep without continuing what we had left unfinished with my wife. However, little did I know that Rachel’s appearance at our home tonight was not as simple as my wife had made it out to be. 0

A week later, I had finished my work at the office and had nothing else to do, so I fell asleep in my office chair. I slept deeply, as I had indeed been under a lot of stress lately. By nighttime, because I had rested for so long during the day, I wasn’t sleeping as heavily. I woke up groggily to find my wife not in bed. I initially thought she was in the bathroom and didn’t think much of it, preparing to go back to sleep. But suddenly, I heard whispered voices coming from outside the door. Could it be my wife talking on the phone with someone? A feeling of unease immediately welled up in my heart. So late at night, my wife wasn’t in the room but secretly making a call in the living room. Had our marriage hit a rough patch? I hurriedly went to the door, pressing myself against it as if trying to meld into it. I could hear my wife’s voice from outside. “Rachel, please help me out. Hasn’t your company not paid salaries for months now? If you help me, I’ll add another thousand… no, two thousand. How about that?” So she was talking to Rachel. The heart that had jumped to my throat relaxed a bit. But suddenly, Rachel’s voice rang out. It wasn’t the sound of a phone call; she was right there in the living room with my wife. “No, no, Lily. Even if I’m desperate for money, I can’t agree to this. Last time we almost got caught by your husband…” I was stunned. What had they almost been caught doing? My wife continued, “Don’t worry, that was just a fluke. I promise it won’t happen again.” “Look, if you agree, I’ll not only give you an extra two thousand, but I’ll also have my husband arrange a position for you at his company. The salary will definitely be higher than at your previous company.” Rachel seemed to fall silent. I listened, completely confused. What extra money? What was Lily asking Rachel to agree to? And how was I involved in all this? What on earth was going on? After a long while, under Lily’s urging, Rachel seemed to waver, but she said, “Oh, Lily, I really don’t understand why you’re doing this. It’s clear that your husband truly loves you. Why don’t you two just have a baby? Maybe that would change your mind.” My heart, which had just settled, leapt up again. Although Lily’s voice wasn’t loud, I could still hear a hint of dismissiveness in her words. “I don’t want to turn into a frumpy housewife because of a kid. I still want to enjoy life for a few more years. You have no idea, every time I’m intimate with my husband, I secretly take contraceptives afterward.” “I can’t live without the strong bodies of those young studs out there!” Hearing this, I nearly collapsed to the ground. So the so-called full-time housewife was actually going out to party behind my back every day. All that talk about not being able to live without it was just an excuse. And the reason we hadn’t had a child in all these years was also due to her secret manipulations. Disbelief, pain, and anger instantly flooded my mind. I wanted to rush out and slap her hard, demanding to know why she would do this. But just then, she spoke again, pleading with Rachel. “Come on, Rachel. My husband has been under a lot of stress lately. He’s sleeping like the dead every night. You could put a corpse next to him and he wouldn’t even notice!” A lightning bolt flashed through my mind, and an unbelievable suspicion formed in my thoughts.

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