For the sake of Harry’s face, which looked so much like Frederick’s, I went crazy and livestreamed myself cutting my wrists in the family group chat, just begging for a chance to marry Harry. Everyone praised my devotion, but they didn’t know that every time Harry had an affair with his childhood sweetheart, I saw it all clearly. I didn’t make a scene or expose him. But he actually faked his own death to escape our marriage, then released a video online accusing me. “Miss Zoe, are you satisfied now that you’ve broken up a loving couple? Do you want me dead before you’ll leave me alone?” Overnight, I was bombarded with insults, labeled a “homewrecker” and a “shameless bitch.” Five years later, my family was on the brink of bankruptcy. Harry suddenly came back from the dead, standing before me with a smug look on his face. “Zoe, how does it feel to be a widow for five years? I heard you sleep with my photo every night?” “How about this – kneel down and lick Rachel’s shoes, then bark like a dog three times. If I’m in a good mood, I might invest a few million in your family’s company.” He was waiting for me to kneel down like a stray dog and beg for mercy. But I just smiled. Harry didn’t know that the day his fake death was exposed, the Yan family’s IPO failed and their funding dried up. The Yan family had gone bankrupt even before mine. And my wedding ring was already on someone else’s finger… 0

“As expected of Mr. Yan, lying low for five years – so Deep Create was actually founded by you!” “We could tell long ago that Zoe wasn’t good enough for you. Now that her family is bankrupt, she’s only fit to be a servant for you and your wife!” The crowd laughed and gathered around Harry. Harry looked quite pleased with himself. “Women are all the same. Back then she chased after me shamelessly, acting like she’d die if I didn’t marry her. She was more pathetic than a dog wagging its tail.” “You don’t even know the half of it,” Harry narrowed his eyes, his expression especially mocking. “Zoe actually got hymen reconstruction surgery so I could take her virginity.” “She said she wanted me to experience her first time. Man, it felt amazing!” “If you ask me, you should all make your women get this surgery. They could charge a few hundred extra when they sell themselves!” His suggestive tone drew the gazes of the surrounding men to fall on me. Someone had already blocked my path. “Miss Zoe, I may not be as rich as Mr. Yan, but I can certainly afford you for one night.” “Why don’t you come with me instead?” Harry raised his glass and looked at me. “Isn’t this why you came here? To sell yourself? This is Mr. Fu’s party after all. Give up your foolish fantasies. Go rent a room with Mr. Wang – it might even help solve your family’s urgent financial problems.” “Or I could pay for you to get hymen reconstruction a few more times, so you can sell your ‘first time’ over and over!” The crowd burst into laughter. Ever since Harry had abandoned me at our wedding five years ago, I, the young lady of the Xu family, had become the laughingstock of the entire city. They looked at me with contempt. “The bankrupt Miss Xu is dressed so provocatively. Looks like she’s ready to sell herself by the pound to Mr. Yan.” “Mr. Yan already has Miss Rachel. How could this worn-out piece of meat ever compete?” I looked at them with disgust. If it weren’t for Harry’s face looking so much like Frederick’s, how could I have ever stooped to his level? But Harry thought I was just upset at having my intentions exposed. “Stop acting all high and mighty. This isn’t the time to be desperate to marry me anymore.” “If you want to sell your body, go do it somewhere else. If you disturb Mr. Fu, he’ll make you wish you were dead.” Make me? Frederick doesn’t have the guts. I let out a scornful laugh. “Since you say this is Mr. Fu’s party, do you have the right to kick people out? Or are you overstepping your bounds?” I couldn’t help but roll my eyes. I should have just waited and come with Frederick instead of trying to surprise him by arriving early. Just as I turned to leave, Rachel entered through the main doors. To my shock, her dress was identical to mine. “Miss Xu, are you trying to copy me?” Rachel glanced at me, then put on a hurt expression. Harry immediately exploded. “Zoe, you disgust me! How dare you copy Rachel to try to please me!” “A used-up slut like you could never compare to Rachel! I’m telling you, no matter how much you imitate her, I’ll never look at you!” I was so angry I could barely breathe. Where the hell did this guy get the nerve to accuse me of copying? The others also looked at me with disdain. “How shameless, first forcing her way in, now imitating the real love interest! The Xu family has really fallen low!” “Hah, I bet even her underwear is copied.” 0

As soon as those words were spoken, Rachel burst into tears. “Miss Xu, how could you be so cruel! Harry doesn’t love you at all, yet you still try to seduce him!” Harry was heartbroken. He turned and looked at me with contempt. “A cheap whore has no right to wear the same clothes as Rachel.” “Strip her! I want to see if you’re being cheap from head to toe.” As soon as he said that, the leering young men swarmed towards me. “Don’t you dare!” I struggled as my wrists were grabbed, glaring furiously at Harry. “I didn’t copy anything!” “How can you prove it if you don’t take it off?” “That’s right! Let’s see Miss Xu’s figure!” Someone started tugging at my dress zipper, while another simply dove under the long skirt. “Get away from me!” My legs were being pulled at, but my arms were firmly restrained by Harry’s men. Rachel smirked in Harry’s arms. “Bang bang—” The host’s mic tapping interrupted the commotion. “Welcome everyone to the party. Mr. Fu is in a meeting and will arrive shortly. Please remain patient.” Harry naturally didn’t dare offend Frederick, so he had to let me go. “You got lucky! If this wasn’t Mr. Fu’s party, I wouldn’t let you off so easily!” I finally breathed a sigh of relief. But the next second, the big screen at the party suddenly lit up. All the scars I had inflicted on myself to pursue Harry, the humiliating images of me kneeling before him, the tattoo of his name on my chest. Everything was displayed shamelessly in front of everyone. The final image froze on that video. Me wearing lingerie, begging Harry to take pity on me. The crowd gasped in shock. My lips trembled, unable to utter a word. My whole body felt like it had been plunged into an ice bath. “That’s so slutty!” “How shameless, releasing this kind of video just to seduce someone!” Rachel approached me. “Miss Xu, I know you love Harry very much. But you can’t show these things at Mr. Fu’s party. What if Mr. Fu sees them and it ruins Harry’s reputation?” Harry looked at me with disgust. “Give up on trying to seduce me! Even if you stripped naked in front of me right now, I wouldn’t look at you!” Rachel took my hand and spoke earnestly. “I know unrequited love is painful, but please let him go, okay?” Hearing her words, the others started praising her. “Miss Rachel is so understanding. Zoe deserves this! She’s just cheap!” But where others couldn’t see, Rachel flashed me a mocking smile. “You bitch, I can make you even more humiliated!” So it was her doing! I yanked my hand away, when suddenly— Rachel fell straight to the ground, and her dress tore open with a huge rip from the chest. She shrieked as she was exposed. “Miss Xu, how could you be so vicious and tear my dress!” I clenched my jaw, looking at the furious Harry. “Stop going crazy! This has nothing to do with me!” I tried to back away, but Harry strode forward and grabbed my hair, slapping me with all his strength. “Zoe, you bitch, get on your knees and apologize to Rachel!” He kicked the back of my knee, and I fell to the ground with a thud. My knee immediately swelled up. “I said it wasn’t me!” He slapped me again. Suddenly someone in the crowd spoke up, “Stop hitting her, Shawn is here!” 0

My brother! I turned to look at Shawn. “Brother, help me…” My brother took a big step forward, grabbed the back of my head without a word, and slammed it down hard. “You useless piece of trash! How dare you offend Mr. Yan!” “Hurry up and apologize to Mr. Yan and Miss Rachel!” My forehead split open on the marble floor, blood blurring my vision as I collapsed in a heap. “How did our Xu family produce such a shameless thing!” Shawn kicked me again without hesitation. Then he immediately turned to Harry, bowing and scraping as he fawned over him. “I’m so sorry Mr. Yan, it’s all my fault for not teaching my sister properly. I’ve caused you trouble. How about I make her apologize to you and Miss Rachel?” “Or I could give her to you! You can do whatever you want with her!” “As long as you’re willing to invest a bit in the Xu family, we can work together for mutual benefit. What do you think?” Harry was very pleased with his behavior. “As expected, Young Master Xu has much better manners. Much more sensible than your sister.” With Harry’s approval, Shawn immediately stomped on my palm. I curled up in pain, glaring at him viciously. “Shawn! I’m your sister. How can you do this? Do Mom and Dad know?” He grabbed my chin contemptuously. “You dare mention Mom and Dad? The Xu family doesn’t have a treacherous daughter like you!” I stared at him in shock. I was too naive. Parents who were ready to marry me off to an old man, how could I have any expectations of them? A family that had only ever used me as a tool for promotion since childhood, how could I hope for love? Tears streamed down my face. A warm flow trickled down my lower body. Rachel covered her mouth and screamed, pointing at the hem of my dress. “She’s bleeding!” I quickly covered my abdomen. I was two months pregnant, and hadn’t had a chance to tell Frederick yet. Blood stained my white dress red. I broke out in a cold sweat from the pain. Rachel continued in shock. “Miss Xu, you didn’t get knocked up by some random guy, did you? Is that why you came to find Harry today? Were you hoping he’d take responsibility?” Harry glared at me in a rage. “You actually dared to get pregnant with another man’s child! Tell me, who is he!” “Damn it, Zoe, are you that desperate? I’ve only been gone five years and you’ve become such a shameless slut!” He slapped me again. I covered my stinging cheek and yanked off the necklace around my neck, revealing the hidden wedding ring. “I’m already married! This child has nothing to do with you!” “What?” Harry let out a cold laugh. “You? Married? Who would want damaged goods like you? I bet you don’t even know who the father is, do you?” He grabbed my wrist forcefully. “Don’t forget! You’re still my wife in name!” “This child absolutely cannot be kept!” I frantically shielded my belly, my nails digging deep into my palms. “This child is Frederick’s. If you dare touch him, Frederick will never let you off!”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296520”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic

Because of the blizzard, Ryan’s first love was stranded on the snowy mountain. Ryan was severely injured and fell unconscious trying to save his first love. Due to the lack of resources, I couldn’t bear to watch him suffer. I had no choice but to bite my wrist and use my blood as water to save his life. Unexpectedly, the first thing he did when he woke up was to try to leave with his first love. I had lost too much blood and could only watch helplessly as he left with his first love. He looked at me apologetically: “I’ll send a rescue team to save you.” The wound on my wrist kept me painfully awake, but it was nothing compared to the fear of death from my body losing heat. “No…” My weak groan didn’t make Ryan turn back. He walked away, carrying Sophia in his arms, getting further and further from me. In the freezing cold, there were only their silhouettes, supporting each other like a couple in distress. Sophia hugged Ryan tightly, deeply moved. I could hear their voices: “Ryan, if we make it out alive this time, I’ll marry you. I’ve finally realized that you’re the only one who truly loves me.” I couldn’t see Ryan’s expression, but I saw them kiss passionately as the snow fell around them. “I love you too, Sophia.” I felt waves of cold and heartache wash over me. The pain from my wound had even subsided somewhat due to the numbness from the cold. I could only tear off part of my inner clothing to roughly bandage my wound. But it was far from enough to ease my despair and pain. My eyes remained fixed on Ryan, desperately hoping he would look back at me one last time. But his steps, though slow, were determined. He never glanced back in my direction. I leaned my body against the snow cave. Watching their silhouettes disappear before my eyes. My eyes stung with unshed tears, my body nearly frozen stiff. “Don’t cry, the tears will freeze,” I told myself. I tried my best to hold back my tears. Until my blood gradually stained the snow red. I waited from dawn to dusk, but the rescue team Ryan promised never came. After two whole days, my body was too cold to move. We had been stranded on the snowy mountain for five full days. I had only come along to save Ryan in the first place. I hadn’t brought much food with me at all. The hypothermia even made me feel feverish. I had no strength left. My heart was filled with despair. Stranded on this endless snowy mountain, dying here. My heart was full of resentment. And despair towards Ryan. If I had known this would be the outcome, I never would have come to the mountain with him. Before losing consciousness, I thought helplessly: If I can make it off this mountain alive, I will never love Ryan again. In my hazy state, I seemed to see a figure walking towards me. My body had warmed up enough that I could feel the heat from another person. I desperately clutched his hand. “Save me…” [CUT-OFF POINT]

When I slowly opened my eyes, I found myself not in a hospital, but in a strange warm place. Alarmed, I quickly sat up. But as soon as I tried to stand, my body collapsed weakly to the floor. “Why are you getting up? Your body hasn’t fully recovered yet, you still need more rest.” A strange man helped me up from the ground. I instinctively looked up at him. The young man supported my body and helped me back into bed, then sat down beside me. Compared to Ryan’s striking good looks, the face before me could only be described as fresh-faced. He handed me a bowl of medicine. “Drink this.” I looked at him hesitantly. “What is it?” The bitter herbal smell alone made me wince. I’ve never liked bitter things. “It’s medicine I found to drive out the cold from your body. You were frozen for so long in the snow, if the cold isn’t expelled completely you’ll get sick.” “Were you the one who saved me?” The young man nodded, still holding out the bowl to me. Seeing his boyish smile revealing dimples, I smiled back slightly and took the bowl from his hands. The man introduced himself as Ethan Chen. His family lived at the foot of the mountain and ran a traditional medicine clinic. He said Ryan and Sophia had come to his clinic earlier to use the phone, and that’s how he learned there was still someone stranded on the mountain. So he went up specifically to rescue me. I felt incredibly grateful and thanked him profusely. Ethan blushed in embarrassment. “By the way, could I borrow your phone? I’ve imposed on you for so long, I should…” Ethan didn’t say anything, just went to get his phone from across the room. I instinctively took the phone, but as soon as I turned it on, I saw news flooding the internet about an engagement celebration. Seeing two familiar names, I couldn’t help but click on the article. The report showed Ryan and Sophia in hospital gowns. As I scrolled through photo after photo, the final image showed the two of them in formal attire, faces radiating happiness. The internet was flooded with stories praising their undying love on the snowy mountain. There wasn’t a single mention of me anywhere. I held back my tears and looked up at the awkward Ethan. “Why… why are you crying?” I sniffled, trying to contain my heartache, and asked: “Was I unconscious for a long time? Did any rescue teams come up the mountain?” Ethan instinctively shook his head. “I live here and I didn’t see any rescue teams…” Seeing my tears fall harder, he hurriedly tried to explain: “Maybe I just didn’t notice. Hey, don’t cry. Your body hasn’t recovered, you can’t get too emotional.” I forced myself to hold back my tears and nodded slightly. Mountain rescues are always a big operation. How could Ethan, who runs a clinic at the foot of the mountain, not have noticed? I gritted my teeth and still dialed my brother’s number. “Brother…” As soon as the call connected, I couldn’t hold back my sobs. “Emily? Is that you? Where are you right now?” I told my brother my location in detail, my throat tight with emotion. My brother didn’t say much, just promised he would come get me soon. “By the way Emily, there’s one more thing I need to tell you. The Parker family notified us that they want to break off your engagement.” My brother sounded hesitant, as if afraid of hurting me. But surprisingly, I felt nothing at this point. “It’s okay brother, let’s talk about it when we get back.” “Alright, I just wanted to give you a heads up. Never mind, I’ll head back now.” With that, I reluctantly hung up the phone. At the same time, I reconsidered my feelings towards Ryan.

I didn’t know exactly when my brother would arrive, so I had no choice but to stay at Ethan’s house for now. I felt bad about imposing, but he had a mature, composed demeanor despite his youth. “Your body still hasn’t fully recovered. When you go back, make sure to rest well and avoid catching cold for a while.” “Okay, thank you Ethan.” Hearing me call him by name, the young man’s ears turned red. “No need to thank me. You should rest now, I’ll go make you some food.” I stayed one more night at Ethan’s house, and was woken up by my brother the next morning. As soon as I saw him, I couldn’t control my emotions and threw myself into his arms, crying. Ryan and I had studied abroad for years, only seeing our families once a year. Thinking of that now, I felt incredibly touched. My brother was worried about my health. This time he not only came by helicopter, but even brought a medical team with him. But Ethan was different. No matter how much we tried to pay him, he refused to accept any money. He looked at me steadily. “If possible, if you’re willing, just give me your address. I’ll come visit you in the city someday.” I smiled and nodded, exchanging contact information with him. “Anytime you come to the city, you can reach out to me. I’ll show you around.” As I left with my brother, I felt like I was emerging from another world. My brother looked at my expression and hesitated for a long time before speaking: “Emily, today is Ryan’s engagement party. We…” “Brother, I’m tired. I won’t go. Just send a gift on my behalf and wish them a happy marriage.” With that, I leaned against my brother and fell asleep. When the helicopter reached the city, there were signs of romance everywhere. A helicopter scattered rose petals across the entire city. Some even landed in my hair. I looked at the tall tower in the city center. “Are they having their engagement party there today?” It was the tallest building in the city, with a view of the entire skyline from the top. It suited Sophia’s adventurous personality. My brother glanced at my expression, but still confirmed it. “Don’t worry brother. This time, I’ve come to my senses. I don’t love Ryan anymore.” “You don’t love him anymore? You…” I turned back, my expression very calm. My brother swallowed whatever he was going to say. “It’s good you don’t love him anymore. We don’t need him anyway.” We got in the car to head home. I had clarity about the situation with Ryan. From the moment he returned with Sophia and immediately got engaged, without a single word about me, things were over between us. I just never expected our car to be stopped by the wedding convoy. Ryan’s figure hurriedly walked towards our car. He leaned against the window, standing in front of me. I only glanced at him before quickly looking away. Surprisingly, seeing him this time, my heart was calm. There were no more waves of emotion like before. “Emily, you’re back? Why didn’t you tell me? What happened back then, I didn’t mean to. Sophia’s health was poor, I was worried and forgot about you in the moment.” His face showed rare uncertainty. I deliberately exposed the ugly scar on my wrist. I had always been vain, and this scar would remain on my body forever. “Ryan, it doesn’t matter anymore. Since we’ve run into each other today, let’s clear things up. We should break up.” “No! I won’t agree!”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296518”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic

For thirty years, my DINK husband Lucas adhered to a “Platonic marriage,” refusing to have children or any physical contact with me. He claimed that desire would tarnish our love, and he only wanted us to dedicate our lives to our medical careers. But on our anniversary, I witnessed him intimately entangled in our living room with the woman responsible for my father’s death. “Claire, you don’t know how hard it’s been for me all these years. I only want you…” Thirty years of principles crumbled into a joke. I finally realized I was just a tool for his career advancement. Heartbroken and disillusioned, I decided to accept a position at a German hospital. But when he couldn’t find me anywhere, he panicked. “Claire, I swear you’re the first and will be the only one…” Lucas’s husky voice, mixed with the woman’s soft moans, struck me like lightning. Thirty years. For thirty whole years! Lucas had remained chaste for this woman?! So he wasn’t really devoted to “Platonic love,” nor was he genuinely committed to being childless! He simply didn’t want to touch me! All these years, I had respected his wishes. I even gave up my right to motherhood for him! The cold operating table where I had my IUD inserted still sends chills down my spine. I’m a gynecologist, for heaven’s sake, yet I couldn’t have my own child! All these years of envying newborn babies have now turned into a cruel joke! “Dr. Lin, when are you going to divorce her? I don’t want to wait too long~” “Don’t rush, I’m already making arrangements. After your aunt retires in a while, I’ll divorce her and marry you properly.” “Aunt? Haha, Lucas, have you no shame!” Amber laughed, playfully punching his chest in mock anger. My hands clenched and unclenched, the loose thread on my clothes pricking my skin and my heart. Lucas and I had an age-gap relationship; I was five years older than him. When he married me, he said how amazing his “big sister” was. Now he calls me “aunt.” The hallway mirror mercilessly reflected my graying hair and plain, shabby clothes. I couldn’t help but touch the wrinkles covering my face. I’m only 55, yet time has been so cruel… “Dr. Lin, I heard next week is Dr. Chen’s retirement party. Could you propose divorce to her publicly then?” “But… Claire has been a backbone of the hospital. We need a reason.” “I have a great idea. You can tell everyone that Claire, the renowned gynecologist, is actually a hen that can’t lay eggs!” Amber’s words exploded in my ears, shattering my last line of defense. I stared hard at Lucas, the man I had shared a bed with for thirty years. I searched his face for any hint of hesitation or reluctance. But there was none. His eyes were filled with Amber, and he even chuckled in agreement, “Alright, whatever you say.” My heart plummeted to rock bottom. For Lucas, I had given up my right to motherhood, willingly remaining childless for all these years; For Lucas, I had abandoned my beloved clinical practice to focus on theoretical research, just to help him secure his position as hospital director; For Lucas, I had given up promotions and turned down offers to stay on after retirement, planning to step back and take care of his health. But in the end, was he going to humiliate me like this? That was Amber, the very woman who had caused a medical accident and framed my father, leading to his death in disgrace! Lucas knew all of this, yet he still betrayed me and chose Amber. He was even willing to publicly destroy my decades-long reputation to please her! Tears blurred my vision as I leaned against the wall, gasping for air. With trembling hands, I took out my phone and called the German hospital, accepting their offer to stay on after retirement. As I hung up, thunder rumbled in the sky, and a light rain began to fall. My phone vibrated again, Lucas’s name flashing on the screen. “Claire, are you off work yet?” Today was our 30th wedding anniversary, and Lucas had made early dinner reservations to celebrate. “It’s about to rain. Shall I come pick you up?” he added when I didn’t respond, playing the role of a caring husband. In reality, whenever I had asked him to pick me up before, he always had excuses – either in a meeting or performing surgery. How many late nights had I fumbled my way home after a night shift, only to find him sound asleep? Back then, I foolishly comforted myself, thinking he was just too tired to care for me, stubbornly clinging to a delusion. “No need, I’ll take a cab.” “Alright, be safe on your way. Don’t be late.” I hid in the stairwell, watching the two of them leave arm in arm. I noticed how Lucas tilted his umbrella more towards Amber and couldn’t help but smile bitterly. So Lucas did know how to care for someone; he just never cared for me. All he would say to me was not to be late. “Dr. Chen, long time no see~” Amber was the first to stand and greet me, a gentle smile on her face, the picture of serenity. “What is she doing here?!” I demanded, despite having mentally prepared myself. I had thought Lucas was just dropping Amber off at home, but he had actually brought her to our anniversary dinner! Was Lucas so eager to show her off? On our wedding anniversary, no less?

But Lucas acted as if nothing had happened, pulling out a chair for me while explaining: “I happened to run into Amber, and she said she’s always wanted to apologize to you in person, so I invited her along.” “Dr. Chen, I know I’ve wronged you and your father…” Amber’s eyes reddened as she spoke, “I was young and foolish back then, which led me to make a terrible mistake.” “I’ve been repenting all these years, unable to sleep well at night, always dreaming of your father…” How dare she call my father her mentor! When she first entered the field, my father had guided her every step of the way, from reading medical records to hands-on training, treating her like his own daughter. And how did she repay him? Because of her own mistake, she not only cost a patient’s life but also pushed all the blame onto my father. My father was stabbed in the back, labeled a quack, and died in despair! All of this was thanks to Amber! “Amber, you don’t deserve to call my father your mentor!” I shouted in anger. “Claire, Amber was just confused back then…” Lucas tried to smooth things over. “Confused?” I laughed coldly, “Is ‘confusion’ enough to erase my father’s lifelong reputation? To make up for the pain of his wrongful death?” “Lucas, don’t forget who swore to me that he would seek justice for my father!” The image of Lucas earnestly promising to right the wrongs done to my father was still vivid in my mind, but now this man had become a complete stranger. Lucas looked a bit guilty under my gaze, coughing lightly and avoiding my eyes: “Claire, the hospital has hired Amber as a special consultant. You’ll be seeing each other often from now on. For the sake of hospital unity, can’t you just make peace with Amber?” Special consultant? I finally understood. Lucas had gone to great lengths to bring Amber back to the country and arrange for her to work at our hospital so they could be together! I stared blankly at the two people before me, feeling utterly disgusted. Seeing my expression, Amber knelt down: “Dr. Chen, I know you can’t forgive me right now, but that’s okay. I’ll keep repenting until you accept me as your new colleague… I really want to work alongside you.” “Get out!” I couldn’t hold back anymore and shouted at Amber. “Claire! Can you stop making a scene!” Lucas grabbed Amber and shielded her behind him, “Have you considered how difficult these years have been for Amber? She left her home and country because of this incident.” “Your father’s case happened so long ago. Does it really matter who was right or wrong? Why do you have to be so petty?” I looked at Lucas in disbelief. This man who had once professed his love for me and vowed to take care of me for life. He had seen me cry my eyes out and had sworn to seek justice for me. But now, he was saying this was all trivial, that I was being petty! “If it weren’t for Amber… my father wouldn’t have spent his final years being pointed at and called a quack,” I said, my voice breaking as I clutched my chest in pain. But Lucas didn’t care at all, impatiently cutting me off. “Enough, Claire! Can’t you stop living in the past!” “Look at yourself now. Where’s the gentle woman you used to be? All you do is doubt and suspect, acting like a crazy old hag!” “With a daughter like you, who knows if your dad was really innocent? Maybe he was the one trying to bite back in his confused state.” Every word Lucas said was like a hammer, pounding mercilessly at my heart. I clutched my chest, struggling to breathe. “Lucas, do you have any conscience left? You…” Before I could finish, my vision went black, and I felt myself falling backward uncontrollably.

“Claire!” Lucas cried out, instinctively reaching out to support me. I reflexively grabbed his hand, my face pale and cold sweat dripping down my forehead. Amber quickly pushed Lucas aside, “Dr. Chen, don’t worry. I’ve trained in first aid. Let me take a look at you.” She put on a show of examining me: “It’s nothing serious, just a bit of heat exhaustion. You’ll be fine after some rest.” Then, feigning weakness, she furrowed her brow and suddenly swayed, falling into Lucas’s arms. Lucas caught her in a panic, asking anxiously, “Amber, what’s wrong? Don’t scare me!” “I… my heart doesn’t feel right…” Amber’s voice was weak and fragile, as if she might fade away at any moment. “I’ll take you to the hospital right away!” Without another word, Lucas scooped Amber up in his arms. Before leaving, he glanced back at me, his eyes full of conflict, but he didn’t stop. I watched their retreating figures, tears finally sliding down my cheeks. So this was the man I had loved for thirty years, this was the marriage I had given everything to protect. How laughable, truly laughable! I used my last bit of strength to call 911, then lost consciousness. When I came to, I was lying numbly in a hospital bed. The doctor said I had suffered from acute stress reaction. Indeed, at my age, I shouldn’t get so emotionally worked up, especially not over such a man. After finishing the IV, I stumbled home on shaky legs. Seeing the clothes still hanging on the balcony, I reflexively took them down and folded them neatly, only realizing what I was doing when I opened the closet. In the closet, Lucas’s clothes were all ironed crisp and neat, giving off a faint scent of laundry detergent. My clothes, on the other hand, were pitifully few, mostly just white lab coats. All these years, I had been like a spinning top, shuttling between home and the hospital, living as nothing more than an appendage. At this moment, I could no longer hold back. I broke down and cried my heart out. I tore up the photos of Lucas and me from when we were dating, along with the diary entries I had written back then: “Today Lucas gave me a ring. He said he made it himself and hopes I’ll wear it forever…” “Lucas proposed to me today. He said he would love me and take care of me for life…” “Today Lucas told me he wants a spiritual relationship and doesn’t want children. But that’s okay, all the newborns will be my children from now on.” Once, I thought I had chosen love. In the end, I realized I had only chosen loneliness. Thirty years of feelings, thirty years of dedication, all turned out to be a joke. The next day, Lucas came back. He brought a bunch of breakfast, unprecedented, and even prepared warm water for me to take my medicine. “Claire, Amber had a heart attack yesterday, I was just taking her to the hospital. You know, it’s our duty as doctors,” he said. Seeing no reaction from me, he moved closer, trying to butter me up. “There’s an important symposium at the hospital today, so…” Perhaps only when Lucas needed something from me would he lower himself like this. All these years, I had participated in countless symposiums for the hospital, winning awards big and small, all to secure Lucas’s position as director. But now, I’m tired. “I’m retiring. I don’t want to join this circus anymore.” “A doctor’s duty is to heal, Claire. Just think of it as for the hospital, for the patients! I promise this is the last time!” A doctor’s duty to heal – this was my father’s teaching. I remained silent for a long while, eventually softening and agreeing.

But when I arrived at the hospital, I realized that today’s symposium was nothing but a stage tailor-made for Amber. The topic was “Diagnosis and Treatment of Difficult Gynecological Cases,” with Amber as the main presenter and me as her assistant. I was made to look like a clown, running errands for her – printing materials, organizing case files, serving tea. “Dr. Chen, please revise this case analysis report for me. Make sure it highlights my professional expertise.” “Dr. Chen, where’s my coffee? Don’t you know I need a cup in the afternoon to stay alert?” “Dr. Chen, have you proofread my speech? I’m representing our hospital, so there can’t be any mistakes.” … In the end, Amber won the competition with her “brilliant” presentation and “unique insights,” successfully promoted to chief physician. She stood on the stage, radiant and eloquent, as if she were the true expert who had devoted years to gynecology. And I, like an outsider, was arranged in a corner. Watching her perform, listening to her use the research topics I had studied for years, reaping the applause and acclaim that should have been mine. I remained silent. Seeing me still silent after returning home, Lucas thought I was still angry about the symposium. He approached me with a fawning expression, eagerly massaging my shoulders: “Claire, don’t be angry. Amber just returned to the country and doesn’t understand many things.” “As a senior, you should be more understanding. Think of it as maintaining unity in the hospital.” As he spoke, he pulled out an exquisite little box from his pocket. Inside was the pearl necklace I had admired at the mall earlier this month. In the past, whenever we argued, Lucas would take out a small box with something I liked inside. Accepting the gift meant no more anger – this had been our unspoken agreement for years. “I noticed you liked it last time. You’re always reluctant to spend money on yourself, but never hesitate to buy clothes for me.” Lucas shook his head as he spoke. I fingered the pearl necklace for a long time without speaking. Lucas was the hospital director, often attending public events, while I… How long had it been since I had properly dressed up? Thinking of my reflection in the glass that day, my heart ached again. “Do you like it? It’s to commemorate our 30th anniversary – our pearl wedding.” “Tomorrow is your retirement farewell party. Wear this, and you’ll be the most beautiful queen of the evening.” Lucas said, reaching out to help me put it on. He gently lifted my hair, just like years ago. At this moment, I couldn’t describe the taste in my heart. “Do I have to go to the farewell party tomorrow?” I asked reluctantly, “I don’t want to retire yet…” “Claire,” Lucas turned my shoulders, his eyes full of tenderness, “Your health isn’t good. From now on, just be Mrs. Lin.” Mrs. Lin? Really? I closed my eyes, suppressing the surging emotions, and after a long while, I softly replied, “Okay.” The next day, I got up early, packed a few clothes, and took a cab to the cemetery. I gently placed the divorce papers in front of my father’s tombstone. Looking at the photo on the tombstone, I choked up. I never thought I would be as old as my father was when he passed away. “Dad, from now on, I’ll live for myself! I’ll seek justice for you on my own!” Leaving the cemetery, I went straight to the airport. The German hospital had already arranged accommodation and work for me, just waiting for my arrival. But just as I was about to board, Lucas’s calls flooded in.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296517”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic

Married for ten years, Phoebe has been incarcerated ten times. Each time she is released, she arrives with a newborn, leaving the chaos for me to handle. “There are no precautions in prison, so why can’t you just take care of a few more kids?” The wives of the fathers of these children show up at my door, demanding child support and compensation for the nights they lost with their husbands. They even injured my five-year-old son because of this. On the day my son was seriously injured, after bearing humiliation, I hurried to pick up Phoebe from prison, only to find her friends had already organized a welcome party for her at the most luxurious restaurant. “Phoebe, Gideon has waited for you for over a decade and has been raising kids that aren’t his. He’s more loyal than any devoted follower.” “Yeah, while you’ve been off visiting dozens of countries under the guise of being in jail, he’s been so broke he’s been washing other people’s clothes for money.” Phoebe laughed, “If I weren’t pregnant with Asher’s child, I wouldn’t have come back so soon this time. Just looking at that old fool disgusts me. But since he’s willing to be a nanny, let him serve both me and Asher well.” My face turned pale as I left the divorce papers and walked away. Her friends tried to calm the situation, “Come on, Gideon, we’re just joking.” Phoebe stopped them, “If you want to leave, then leave for real. Don’t come crawling back later.” I looked at Phoebe, resolute, “I will never regret this.”

As I stepped out of the room, my younger son and daughter ran over, “Dad, where are you going?” I hesitated, and Phoebe immediately laughed. Her friends shouted, “Wow! That was fast. Not even half a minute!” “No wonder he’s such a devoted follower. He’s getting paid, getting paid!” Phoebe knew my weak spot. Even if these two kids were fathered by someone else, I raised them myself. I couldn’t bear to leave them. My son and daughter looked at me hesitantly, “Dad, what’s wrong with you? You smell awful.” Phoebe got up and kicked me like a dog, “I heard you slept with a woman. At least wash off the stench. What would the kids think?” I glared back at her, unable to hold back, “And what about bringing the kids to a place like this?” At that moment, Finn came out of the bathroom, and the two kids immediately ran to hug him, “Uncle Asher, we missed you so much!” Finn looked at me with a challenging gaze, “So, do you like your dad more or Uncle Asher?” “Of course, Uncle Asher!” Finn smugly handed them a piece of cake, “Uncle has a little cake for you.” The kids, who had never seen a cake before after all these years with me, were drooling at the sight. Finn elongated his words, “But only good kids get to eat cake.” Before I could understand what he meant, my son lunged at me and bit me hard, “You jerk!” My beloved daughter walked up to me, slapped me, and hugged Finn, saying, “You’re a dirty nobody, poor and always with women. You’re disgusting! I don’t want you as my dad! I want Daddy Asher!” Finn was extremely pleased, “Gideon, look at what you’ve taught the kids, using foul language and doing such things in front of them.” Phoebe looked at me with disgust, “Is this the kind of children you raise?” My hand, my face, and my heart all hurt. The two kids who had just insulted me were now devouring the cake beside Finn. They humiliated me for a piece of cake. My heart broke, “I’m not fit to be their father. Let’s get a divorce.” I handed the divorce papers to Phoebe again. Phoebe walked toward me, mockingly tore up the papers, “Gideon, you know Grandma will never agree to our divorce. You want me to sign, just to tattle to Grandma about Asher? Dream on!”

“You’re unbelievable!” I was furious, thinking of my sick son at home, and was about to leave. Phoebe grabbed my hair, “What, got a woman waiting for you in bed? We’re celebrating me being pregnant with Asher’s kid. Make us happy, and you can go.” Her friends egged me on, “Gideon, you’re here, might as well join the fun.” “Yeah, it’s a rare gathering. Tell us, how do you handle all those women? Still got your stamina?” “Do you deal with them one by one, or all together? Hahaha!” The kids finished their cake and looked at me expectantly. I couldn’t stand it, “Phoebe! The kids are here. How can you let them say such things?” Phoebe snorted, “But you don’t find it disgusting to do such things in front of them.” “Show us how you usually take care of the kids. Or maybe, give us a demonstration?” Her friends excitedly jumped up, “Phoebe, I’ll play the lead!” “I’ll be the second lead!” Without hesitation, they pulled me onto the sofa, touching me over my pants, “Gideon, don’t be shy, just let loose.” My son and daughter stared at me, “That’s not how it is! Dad is usually on the bottom!” I couldn’t believe my ears, struggling to push away the person in front of me. She grabbed my hand, “Oh, you like it rough.” “Looks like you’ve been busy. Even your niece and nephew know your moves!” My torn clothes exposed bruises and hickeys. Extreme shame washed over me. But they were even more excited, “Such a wild man! Look at those muscles, must be a beast!” My daughter said again, “Mom, where are the third and fourth leads? Dad likes a crowd.” Her words shattered my worldview. I couldn’t believe my cherished daughter said such things for half a piece of cake, “Nora, who taught you this nonsense!” Frightened, my daughter hid behind Phoebe, “Mom, I’m not lying. Dad wasn’t like this before, he used to enjoy it!” My heart went cold. Phoebe frowned at me, “Even with scum like this, you guys can still have fun? Who knows how many diseases he has.” The person with me was getting more excited, “Phoebe, you don’t know, experienced men are thrilling…” The room fell silent. Phoebe’s face turned dark, and they let go of me. I hurriedly crawled to the corner to put on my tattered clothes. Phoebe held Finn’s chin and said, “I don’t want Asher’s eyes dirtied. Drink all the wine on the table, consider it our celebration.” The person was annoyed, “Such fine wine, Gideon, you’ve never seen it, right? Consider yourself lucky.” I couldn’t handle alcohol, but for my son, I forced myself to drink. I was dizzy, “Can I go now?” Phoebe raised an eyebrow. Just as I stepped out, I remembered something important and turned back.

Standing awkwardly in front of Phoebe, “Phoebe, my son is sick, I don’t have money for his treatment…” For years, I’ve taken care of ten kids alone, with a seriously ill Grandma in the hospital, while being bullied and exploited. I had no money for my son’s treatment. Phoebe laughed, “So, you want money. My money doesn’t grow on trees. Can’t let you take it for nothing.” I felt a chill, “What do you want?” “Here, you earn it by skill.” Phoebe slapped a stack of cash on the table, “How much you get depends on your ability.” The group got interested again, “Gideon, a drink for a bill, how about it?” The 96-proof liquor was too much for me. Finn whispered something to my daughter, who immediately rushed at me, slapping me hard, “Weren’t you good at drinking and sleeping with women? Why aren’t you earning money now?” She cried and hugged Phoebe, “Mom, take me away. I don’t want to live with this dirty nobody…” Fueled by alcohol, I lunged at Finn, “What did you say to my daughter! What have you taught her?” Phoebe lost her patience, kicked me hard, “Gideon, are you done acting? Aren’t you disgusting enough! I’m nauseous at night, Asher can’t take it, you serve.” I was desperate, “Phoebe, my son is really sick! I need to take care of him!” Earlier, I was about to go to the prison to welcome Phoebe. But those women got drunk and caused trouble, clinging to me. My five-year-old biological son tried to protect me, but they mercilessly beat him until he was covered in blood, now lying in bed unable to move. Phoebe sneered, “You just want to trick me into sleeping with you, right? Gideon, look at your disgusting self, which woman would want you? In my heart, there’s only Asher.” “Take care of me until Asher’s child is born safely. I’ll have someone treat that little bastard.” I reluctantly agreed and returned home with Phoebe. Only then did I realize she never went bankrupt. She never went to jail. She just avoided me, wanting to punish me. But I didn’t care anymore. I just wanted my son to live. In the middle of the night, Finn said he was hungry, wanting me to cook. He ate my food and vomited. Phoebe grabbed me up and slapped me hard, “You scum, are you trying to poison Asher?” “You need to keep me happy until Asher’s child is safely born. I’ll have someone take care of that little brat.” I had no choice but to agree. I went home with Phoebe. It was then that I realized she had never gone bankrupt, nor had she been in jail. She was simply hiding from me, intent on punishing me. But I no longer cared about that; all I wanted was for my son to survive. In the middle of the night, Finn said he was hungry and asked me to make him something to eat. After eating, he vomited everything up. Phoebe grabbed me and slapped me hard, “You scumbag, are you trying to poison Asher?”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296516”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic

Zombie hordes were taking over the city, and the last iron door protecting my home was on the verge of collapse. I ended the call when my sister-in-law tried to contact my brother for help. That day, my brother opened the protective gates of the safe zone, allowing the zombies to raid and pillage everything from everyone. He ordered a highly intelligent zombie to cruelly claw the unborn child from my sister-in-law’s womb and even demanded that my skin be flayed. “If it weren’t for your jealousy, Phoebe wouldn’t have been disfigured by the zombies!” he exclaimed. “Now, with the umbilical cord blood and your skin, I can give Phoebe a complete transformation. She’ll be even more beautiful than before!” With the last bit of strength, I crawled to my sister-in-law’s lifeless body, only to find my fiancé, having discarded his suit, gently holding my skin and coaxing softly, “Silly Phoebe, this cheap skin doesn’t match your gentle and kind heart. But it’ll have to do.” They kept me barely alive, just enough to witness as they drained my body for their experiments. When I opened my eyes again, I heard my sister-in-law desperately calling my brother.

I awoke abruptly to the sound of fighting beyond the iron gate. “Declan! Hurry back and save us! Zombies have broken through the outer city and reached the neighborhood!” My sister-in-law’s words jolted me back to reality. I had truly been reborn! Suddenly, I heard my brother’s impatient voice on the phone: “Women are such a hassle. Aren’t you already pregnant? Why are you bothering me?” “Today’s Phoebe’s twentieth birthday. She’s been alone her entire life. Only I, her mentor, can give her a proper celebration.” “You two always exclude her. Can you stop causing me trouble?” “Every time there’s a zombie attack, you call me with excuses. I’ve had enough! No matter what happens tonight, it won’t stop me from celebrating Phoebe’s birthday!” Seeing the zombies about to break through the gate, I pressed my sister-in-law’s phone, “Brother, we got it. Zombies are out tonight. Be careful.” Then I hung up and quickly pulled my sister-in-law to the armory. She looked at me, confused and panicked, asking, “Cora! Why won’t you let your brother come save us? He’s an elite guardian martial artist of the City of Laurel. No matter how busy he is, he shouldn’t be out now!” The explanation caught in my throat. My sister-in-law still believed my brother was a peerless hero, not realizing that beneath his cool, restrained exterior lay a black heart. He claimed he was discussing defense strategies with a senior martial artist, but he was actually preparing a fireworks display at the beach with his junior student, Phoebe Carter. The fireworks we could only buy with high honors were casually used for Phoebe, enough to fend off zombies for three months. After two failed attempts to unlock the armory, a message appeared: only one chance left, or it would lock permanently. Meanwhile, the sound of zombies approaching grew louder. My sister-in-law couldn’t resist and called my brother a fifth time. Again, I heard my brother’s impatient voice: “I knew you would try to bring me back. Do you want to open the armory and face the zombies yourselves?” “Luckily, Phoebe reminded me to prevent you from using the armory at home! I’ve changed the password remotely, so don’t bother trying!” My muscles tensed. I couldn’t believe that even in this reborn life, even without asking my brother for help, he gave us no chance to survive! He was so heartless, sealing off the armory completely. How would two women, unarmed, escape the zombies’ grasp? My sister-in-law sobbed, overwhelmed by the stench of blood. She cried, “To your brother, is Phoebe more important than his wife, child, and sister?” “Groaning sounds!” Before I could respond, a skeletal hand with decayed flesh appeared over the wall and leapt into the yard. My pupils shrank as I grabbed a stick and smashed the small zombie’s head, sending it rolling across the ground. Seizing the moment, trembling, I grabbed my sister-in-law’s wrist to flee. In the basement, she clutched her aching abdomen. I hugged her tightly, placing her hand on her stomach and reassuring her, “Sister-in-law, hold on! Now’s not the time to be sad. We have to save ourselves!” “My brother isn’t coming back. We have to find a way to survive!” “The City of Laurel is the most important defense barrier! If it’s overtaken, more of our family will perish!” I called my brother’s superior, Heath, for help. After five rings, someone lazily answered, with fireworks crackling in the background.

“Cora, your brother told me there’s no zombie invasion. It’s just your sister-in-law’s pregnancy causing drama. You shouldn’t get involved in their couple’s quarrels!” My sister-in-law and I couldn’t help but plead with Heath not to believe my brother. But we were met with cheers and applause from the martial artists. “Phoebe’s got real archery skills! No wonder Declan favors you. You found the zombies’ weak spot and killed them in one shot. Impressive!” Heath joined in their games. Meanwhile, outside the secret chamber, zombies dismantled the iron gate. They followed their scent to the chamber, moving in an orderly fashion under the highly intelligent zombie’s command, attacking the strong families first. Their familiarity was like a rehearsed routine. In my previous life, my brother returned quickly under Heath’s orders. But now, even Heath joined him at the beach for Phoebe’s birthday. Pressing matters left no time to ponder this twist. Heath’s unexpected absence felt like a heavy weight on my back. With zombies blocking every road, we had no way out unless we could fly. Our secret chamber had a passage leading outside, but… I hesitated at the path leading to my fiancé Jasper’s home. On our wedding day, he conspired with the zombies to give my skin to Phoebe. It was fresh in my mind. If I sought help from him again, it would be the height of foolishness! The other path led to the Night Beast King’s territory. My sister-in-law, seeing me glance that way, quickly wiped her tears and pleaded, “Cora, Dad warned us never to open the gate to the Orc Dark Territory!” Behind us, the foul stench and clattering footsteps of zombies drew closer. Clutching my sister-in-law’s hand, I hesitated. Though unarmed, with her pregnant, I finally pressed the switch for the passage to the Orc Dark Territory as the zombies broke in. Just then, my sister-in-law’s phone vibrated. It was a taunting message from Phoebe. In the ocean-view room, Phoebe sat disheveled on a strong man’s lap. Her soft voice begged, “Declan, am I really no match for Lin Yu?” “I heard she’s pregnant. Has it been difficult for you?” “You prepared such a grand birthday party for me. I don’t know how to repay you.” Under bright lights, she slowly lifted her skirt, her purple-pink satin butterfly dress clinging to her hips. “I learned from a private tutor just to please you… Don’t you want my first time to be yours?” My sister-in-law shook, struggling to type on her phone. The video showed my brother pouncing, eyes filled with fierce desire, too impatient for foreplay, already entwined with Phoebe. Their silhouettes blended on the translucent curtains. Furious, I threw the phone, cursing, “Declan, you dog! The City of Laurel is surrounded by zombies, and he abandons his wife and sister to sleep with his mistress? He’ll die for this!” Suddenly, zombies flooded the passage within minutes. My sister-in-law quickly released every obstacle to block them. Two robots activated, guarding us. “Cora! Go get help!” “If you can’t, save yourself!” “Reach the next safe zone and warn them to resist the zombies!” Tears of determination streamed down her face. “Two robots can’t hold off the zombies!” “I’ll stay and buy you time!” Tears of helplessness poured down my face. “Go! If one survives, it’s something!” Two robots sprang to life instantly, standing guard behind us. “Cora! Hurry, go outside and get help!” “If you can’t find help, escape on your own!” “Quickly reach the next safe zone, and tell them to resist the zombies!” Tears of determination welled in her eyes. “Just two robots won’t hold off the zombies!” “I’ll stay here to buy you some time!” Tears of helpless fear streamed down my face. “Go! If even one of us survives, it’s worth it!” “Your brother is no good; we can’t let everyone in the City of Laurel die because of us!” I stumbled a few steps, witnessing the bloodthirsty madness of the zombies. In the endless darkness, skulls with sharp mutated teeth glinted coldly. Some zombies, having recently feasted, still had fingers and leg bones in their mouths. I made a swift decision. “Sister-in-law, take care! I’ll come back to save you!” My sister-in-law’s phone had taunting messages from Phoebe Carter. “Are you surrounded by zombies now?” “Who told you to ignore me just because you’re Declan’s wife?” “Honestly, those zombies are after Cora. Her innate spiritual blood is full of yang energy, the only thing that can restrain zombies.” “Once Cora is dead, I won’t have anything else to worry about!” In the long, endless secret passage of the chamber. I suddenly realized that I might never have truly understood my brother. Or this world. And I never deeply thought about why Phoebe Carter wanted to harm me and my sister-in-law. In my past life, my brother ordered my skin to be peeled off. My sister-in-law was even torn apart by zombies competing for the child. Was our previous disaster really just a simple zombie siege? I felt like I was overlooking something important. The secret passage I used to play in as a child seemed different now. I remembered there should be a fork here. With a “thud,” I stepped into dark, muddy ground, and the sound of trickling water reached my ears. A branch pierced through my wrist, and crimson blood mingled with the silver-bright dark river. I was stunned. It felt like something eerie beneath the dark river was about to awaken. At the same time, I realized that it had been a long time since the world had such clean, sweet water. Suddenly, I felt a mysterious calling. It was as if a voice told me: [You must cross the dark river! Once you do, you can gain the help of the Orc Dark Territory!] But at this moment, there were suddenly some faint, shadowy knives on the ground. A familiar figure emerged from the darkness. My eyes couldn’t withstand the dazzling light ahead. “Cora?” “I’ve been waiting for you at home for so long. Why haven’t you sent a distress message yet? This isn’t like your past life behavior.” I vaguely remembered that in my past life, I also frantically sent distress messages to my fiancé, Jasper. But Jasper said he was busy and couldn’t come to save me, asking me to wait. In the end, someone set fire to the armory in the City of Laurel, attracting the attention of surrounding cities. My brother’s superior, Heath, led everyone to fight the zombies. In my past life, my brother was forcibly recalled by Heath, which finally stabilized the City of Laurel against the zombies. Although my brother saved many people after returning to the city, the City of Laurel lost its survival resources, making the city defense more vulnerable. People had to evacuate with their families to the rear! It seemed like a victory for self-defense, but in fact, after the evacuation, zombies quickly took over the City of Laurel! Now I faced Jasper’s bright, shining eyes in the darkness. A sudden, sharp fear surged in my heart.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296515”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #浪漫Romance #现实主义Realistic

My younger sister, who is in college, got pregnant out of wedlock. When asked about the father’s identity, she refused to disclose it, insisting on having the child as a testament to their love. I felt sorry for her because she was so young and pregnant, so I brought her home and took good care of her. Only on the day she was about to give birth did she tearfully admit in front of everyone that the child was hers and my husband’s. After a huge uproar, it turned out my whole family saw me as nothing but a free nanny. “Say it again, whose child is this?” Even in the hospital gown, my sister’s pretty face couldn’t be concealed. She stubbornly held her head high, lovingly stroking her large pregnant belly. Her voice choked with tears as she urged me to accept the child, saying that the child shouldn’t be born without a father. As her sister, I should consider her situation. If word got out that the child had no father, how many people would gossip about us and the child? You can’t be so heartless. I stood there silently, listening to all her accusations, as if I were the one who did such shameful things. I swallowed my bitterness and stood frozen, unsure of how to respond, so I looked to my parents standing by the bed for help. I hoped they would stand up for me. But to my surprise, even after my sister did something so vile, my parents’ first reaction was to ask me, as the older sister, to be more forgiving and not to argue with her. They said, “There’s no obstacle that can’t be overcome. Forgive your sister’s youthful ignorance.” They also said, “Your parents are getting old. Your sister needs someone by her side. Take good care of her during her confinement period, and don’t let her suffer any health issues.” The favoritism in their words pierced my heart like a thousand tiny needles. Because of the saying that the older should yield to the younger, my sister always managed to take everything from me effortlessly since we were kids. Our family was poor when we were young. We ate cabbage stew with tofu every day, only affording a roasted chicken once a month. But when it came to dividing the chicken, all I got was the dry head and the smelly tail. According to them, “Your sister is still growing, so the legs and wings are hers. Your parents do physical labor every day, so they get the meatiest parts for strength.” Even when my sister couldn’t finish her food, my mom never thought to share a bit with me. She would meticulously strip the meat off the bones, shred it, and mix it with rice for my sister to eat the next day. Even now, any good food is always for my sister first. They showered her with love and were always strict with me. When my sister fell behind in her studies, my parents paid for expensive tutors. When I fell behind, I got scolded and whipped, so much that I couldn’t sleep at night. Mom said girls should dress up from a young age, so she bought my sister countless dresses to wear every day, while I got my relatives’ kids’ old clothes. During my teenage years, I wanted to look nice and begged a friend to do my makeup, only to be called a “tramp” by my parents. I even suspected at one point that my mom had taken the wrong baby home from the hospital. It wasn’t until adulthood that I learned my mom gave birth to me in a wheat field, not even making it to the hospital. It seemed I was destined to be lesser the moment I was born. But they never admitted to being unfair. Whenever I questioned why they loved my sister more, they would beat and scold me, telling me to stop causing trouble. “We raised you, and you think we’re wrong? How did we end up with an ungrateful child like you?” “When will you grow up and stop competing with your sister for attention?” My sister took my parents’ love, everything that should have been mine, and now she wants to take my place too. But this time, I refuse to endure it. Who set the rule that the older must yield to the younger?

As I thought about this, a fierce determination emerged in my eyes. My sister noticed I hadn’t comforted her or responded, so she glanced at me from the corner of her eye to gauge my reaction. After all, whenever we disagreed, I was always the one to lower myself, appease her, and agree to all her unreasonable demands. She assumed I hadn’t heard clearly, so she raised her voice and repeated, “Sister, you’re not still clinging to those outdated ideas, are you? Only those who aren’t loved are the third wheel! You should be the one to leave!” “You’re not worthy of my Finn!” Honestly, I wanted to see what nonsense was in her head. I didn’t expect “disgraceful” to slip out of my mouth. I lunged forward, grabbing my sister’s shiny black hair and pulling with all my strength. No one could pry me off her. My sister probably didn’t expect my sudden outburst and didn’t defend herself at all. She was caught off guard, letting me unleash all the suffering I’d endured. I sat up, tears in my eyes, and loudly questioned her, “Since we were kids, tell me what I’ve done to wrong you. You got the best food, the best toys.” “Do you know how scared I was when I got a call from your school at 3:30 a.m. telling me you were pregnant?” “I took the earliest flight to pick you up, didn’t sleep a wink, and was terrified you’d be upset. I handled all the paperwork for your leave of absence, climbing several flights of stairs for you.” “Afraid you’d be tired, during your time at my home, I didn’t let you lift a finger. You just lay in bed, ate, and enjoyed my care.” “I dare say I’ve done more for you than your own parents. How could you do this to me!” Only then did a hint of panic show on my sister’s delicate face as she realized I was serious. She cursed at the crowd watching the scene, yelling, “What are you all staring at? Get this crazy woman off me! What are you waiting for? She’s insane!” Everyone told me it wasn’t worth it, but they were too scared to come near me. It wasn’t until a familiar figure entered my view that I gradually eased my grip, giving my sister a chance to escape. I tidied my wild hair, trying to maintain a shred of dignity, forcing a stiff smile, “Mom, why are you here, I…” But before I finished, my mother-in-law’s slap landed squarely on my face. The force was so strong that I had to brace myself after taking the hit. I held my swollen face, looking in disbelief at my sister seeking refuge behind my mother-in-law. My voice trembled, “Mom, you knew all along?” My mother-in-law beamed, affectionately adjusting my sister’s hair dampened by sweat, softly asking if she was scared by me. Then she cleared her throat, put her hands on her hips, and looked down at me, “If you can’t keep your man, that’s your own fault. He just made the mistake all men make. If you won’t have a child, plenty of others will.” “You’ve been married to Finn Nolan for three years and haven’t delivered. Who can you blame?” “I’m telling you, a hen that doesn’t lay eggs can’t hog my Finn Nolan’s nest!” “This is outrageous. What woman is as cold-hearted as you? You can’t stand to see our Nolan family prosper! Are you hoping our Nolan family ends with Finn Nolan?” My mother-in-law didn’t bother to hide her disdain for me. Her angry words were accompanied by spittle, but I didn’t even bother to wipe it off. I’ve been married to Finn Nolan for three years, and my mother-in-law has been giving me trouble for three years. I always knew she looked down on me. I didn’t have a degree or beauty. Not just her, everyone said I married up with Finn Nolan. So I treaded carefully in this family, afraid to step out of line and offend my mother-in-law. But even so, my inability to give Finn Nolan a child was a thorn in her side, and she found excuses to pick fights. No matter what grievances I suffered at my in-laws, I swallowed them silently, afraid my husband would be caught between me and his mom. But now, I didn’t know what I was even doing all this for. I must be truly pathetic, because even now, her dismissive words made me tremble with fear.

“Stop filming, what are you looking at!” “Are you okay, honey?” My husband, Finn Nolan, pushed through the crowd blocking the door, closing the hospital room door heavily. He must have rushed here straight from work, barely catching his breath, eager to stand up for me. My sister blushed and leaned towards Finn Nolan. But to her surprise, he showed no sympathy, pushing her to the floor. With Finn Nolan here, I finally felt like I had someone to rely on. I leaned against his shoulder, exhausted. He held me, silently comforting my turbulent emotions. But the tender moment didn’t last long. My mother-in-law and sister’s cries rose from below. Finn must have rushed over immediately after work. He barely had time to catch his breath before stepping in to support me. When Cora saw Finn Nolan arrive, she shyly nestled into Asher’s arms. However, to her surprise, Asher showed no sympathy and pushed her to the ground. Seeing Finn Nolan gave me a sense of reassurance. I leaned my exhausted body against the shoulder I had longed for. Asher embraced me, silently calming my restless emotions. But the imagined warmth didn’t last long. Hazel and Cora’s cries rang out from below. Hazel was also on the ground, crying and accusing Asher: “Now that you have a wife, you’ve forgotten your mother! You won’t even let me have a say in this small matter!” “I raised you as a woman; was that easy? I suffered ten times more than any man, and look at this, it’s all for nothing! A son is raised for someone else!” Not content with just crying, Hazel got up and rushed towards the hospital’s load-bearing wall. She mumbled, “Oh dear, I’m coming down to join you. We’ll meet again below, but I regret not seeing my eldest grandson before I go.” However, the hospital wasn’t a place for such dramatics. The commotion was too loud, and security came to separate Hazel. I looked at Asher with gratitude, thinking, “With a husband who protects and loves me like this, I have no regrets in this life.” I felt confident I could overcome anyone who coveted my marriage. But in this situation, it was only me who was truly involved. After hearing Hazel’s words, Asher’s eyes welled with tears. He fiercely shook off our tightly held hands, his face contorted as he told me not to make things difficult for him. His mother raised him, and it wasn’t easy. She just wanted a grandson to enjoy her old age; she wasn’t wrong! I stared at the man I’d known for four years and loved for eight. His face overlapped with the memory of the shy boy who asked if I’d marry him and promised to love me forever. I realized I never truly understood him, or maybe I never saw through him. But the years of emotional foundation left a shred of hope in my heart. With a voice that couldn’t hide my disappointment, I asked him, “What about me? What did I do wrong?” “Please, tell me, okay? I’ll change.” I’ve always been strong in front of Asher. This was the first time I showed my vulnerability. He hesitated for a moment, but when he heard that Cora’s water broke, he turned and left without hesitation. If I could excuse his earlier actions as being forced by filial piety, anyone could see now that he had feelings for this child. Outside the delivery room, everyone was anxiously awaiting the new life, but I tore the prepared gift in a corner where no one noticed, hoping no one would discover this secret. “Congratulations! Eight pounds and six ounces, a healthy boy.” “Lucky! He’s the first boy today.” Everyone rushed to hold the baby, marveling at him. Cora, exhausted, was pulled out, but no one cared. She raised her hand but slowly put it down again. The nearly nine-pound baby was naturally delivered by petite Cora because Hazel said natural birth made smarter babies. Cora endured it to please her. Now, she’s utterly exhausted. After being transferred to the general ward, Cora couldn’t get out of bed. Beatrix and Hazel agreed to take turns caring for her. But within days, their strong alliance showed cracks. Beatrix was annoyed that Cora only knew how to order her around. Hazel thought Cora was too demanding, insisting on separate basins for washing different things. But who has that many? The basins all serve the same purpose. She’s just picky, only good-looking but can’t manage a household, a wasteful person! Soon, everyone found excuses not to come. Cora, who was always proud, felt helpless with postpartum bleeding, at their mercy. Finn Nolan didn’t come to see her. She could only watch the affectionate couple next to her and silently cry. Postpartum emotions are volatile, and the baby’s nightly cries didn’t help. Cora’s once beautiful face was gone, and her hair, once a source of pride, fell out in clumps each night. Seeing this scene, I found it laughable. This was the happy life Cora chose over me. But perhaps Beatrix realized leaving Cora alone in the hospital wasn’t right. She called me, ordering, “Your sister is hospitalized, go stay with her, quickly! Don’t make me angry! I’m telling you only once!” Silence, a long silence. The person on the other end grew impatient: “Are you deaf? Your mom is talking to you. Don’t you know to answer? Who taught you to be so rude?” “You’re all making me worry, did I raise enemies? I’m your mom, you have to listen to me whether you like it or not!” I am committed to ensuring that the content remains true to its original meaning while adapting it to be more naturally expressed in English for easier understanding. During this process, we will maintain the original formatting, including line breaks and paragraph breaks.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296514”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn

I went downstairs to take out the trash. But I noticed a rare Lamborghini rocking unnaturally. In the back seat, my two brothers were caught up with the orphan girl they had brought home. I wasn’t surprised. I quietly recorded a video and sent it to the world’s largest Global News Network. “By 7 PM tomorrow, I want this video to be seen by everyone worldwide.” In my previous life, the orphan leveraged her role as my brother’s kept companion to usurp my identity as the eldest daughter of Boston’s elite Harrison family. At the birthday banquet for the Harrison family’s eldest daughter, the orphan Adeline Harrison and my brother confronted me, twisting the narrative. “Do you, just an orphan, have the right to be here?” “I am now the eldest daughter of the Harrison family. And you?! You should crawl back to your kennel and stop embarrassing yourself here.” In my past life, I feared my brother’s wrath and always gave in to Adeline Harrison. But now I’ve been reborn. At the banquet the next day, when the orphan Adeline Harrison blocked my way as she had in my past life, I kicked her to the ground without hesitation. “Who do you think you are, daring to stand in my way?” I shot a sideways glance at the maid nearby, “What are you waiting for? Remove this impostor!” Everyone present was stunned into silence. No one expected me, once so timid, to dare take action. The maid hurried over to help Adeline Harrison up. When she looked back at me, her eyes were filled with fear. “Second Miss, aren’t you afraid the eldest young master will be angry for treating the eldest miss like this?” She knew full well I was the eldest daughter, yet she addressed me otherwise on purpose. “Remember this! The Harrison family has only one daughter, Cora Harrison!” The maid was so frightened she trembled all over, lowering her head, not daring to respond. I stepped up and slapped her to the ground, “Can’t even recognize your own master, what use are you? Get lost!” In my past life, this maid, seeing that my parents were often not home, took my brother’s authority as her own, and insulted me, the eldest daughter of the Harrison family, without restraint. The orphan Adeline Harrison ordered her to find someone to disfigure me and then had me killed and my body disposed of. The maid obeyed, becoming Adeline Harrison’s servant. Now, she was completely intimidated by my aura, kneeling on the ground, “I was only acting on the eldest miss’s orders, how could you hit me?” “If the eldest young master finds out, he definitely won’t let you off.” At this moment, Adeline Harrison, in her orphan identity, began to win people over, helping the maid up and adopting a sisterly posture to scold me. “Truly an orphan taken in.” “Even after all these years in our Harrison family, you still haven’t changed your habit of lying.” Adeline Harrison’s friend, Phoebe Thompson, couldn’t wait to come forward and link arms with her, looking at me with eyes full of resentment. “You’re shameless. Not only do you not appreciate the great kindness of the Harrison family, but you also slander Adeline at her own party.” Everyone present immediately began to whisper. “This person was clearly taken in by the Harrison family, and yet she repays kindness with enmity.” “I heard the Harrison family treats this orphan they took in very well, treating her as one of their own. Even Miss Adeline Harrison treats her as a real sister, sharing everything with her.” “An orphan without parents, yet she wants to impersonate the eldest daughter of the Harrison family, she’s really tired of living.” These people didn’t know the truth. Back then, I saw how pitiful Adeline Harrison was and begged my parents to bring her home to keep me company. As Adeline Harrison grew up, she became sweet-talking and was very likable, which made my cousin fond of her. So whenever there was an event in the circle, my brother would only take Adeline Harrison, leaving me at home, forbidding me to go out. Over time, everyone thought Adeline Harrison was the Harrison family’s eldest daughter, and I was the one taken in. Reborn, I will never swallow my anger again. My dad has billions in assets, and his word is law in the New York social circle, known as Mr. Harrison. My mom is an International Film Star, renowned in the film industry. Many people’s lives and fortunes here depend on my parents’ words. Why should I let an orphan and a cousin ride on my head? Sweeping my gaze over everyone present, my eyes finally locked onto Phoebe Thompson, boiling with hatred, clenching my fists. “Your father’s multinational company only got off the ground because he begged my dad for three days and nights for funding. Ask him if he dares meddle in our family’s affairs?” Publicly humiliated by me, Phoebe Thompson couldn’t swallow her pride and came up intending to slap me. I grabbed her wrist and slapped her back instead. She was instantly furious, her face contorted with rage, her chin trembling, “You, you brat, how dare you hit me?” Adeline Harrison looked around and shouted, “Where are the security guards? Are they all dead?” The security guards had just started to move when I turned and shot them a sharp look, so intense they didn’t dare meet my eyes. “I am the Harrison family’s eldest daughter, who dares lay a finger on me?” Adeline Harrison, afraid others would believe me, immediately shrieked with a guilty conscience. “Cora Harrison, everyone knows you are the brat my dad picked up.” “You think you can reverse black and white, and everyone will believe you? Dream on!” Everyone nodded in agreement. “Miss Harrison is right. Every time there’s an important event, it’s always the Harrison family’s young master attending with Miss Harrison, never seen you.” “Today is the Harrison family’s banquet celebrating Miss Harrison officially entering the New York social circle, yet it’s been ruined by an orphan.” I laughed coldly at their words. I turned to the maid beside me, “Go call my respected brother, and tell him the brat Adeline Harrison wants to impersonate the eldest daughter of the Harrison family and bring shame to us.” “Isn’t he afraid Adeline Harrison will become a rat everyone wants to beat?” The maid hesitated. She knew my brother always held Adeline Harrison in the palm of his hand, even spending billions to make her an online celebrity. Every time Adeline Harrison bullied me, he would take her side, even scolding me harshly for being immature, grounding me without food or drink, and finally forcing me to kneel and apologize to Adeline Harrison before letting it go. “Go, I’ll handle everything.” Hearing this, the maid finally left. Adeline Harrison, the orphan, laughed mockingly, “Cora Harrison, have you forgotten how my brother dealt with you every time you offended me?” Relying on my brother Nolan Harrison’s favor, she never took me seriously. In my past life, when Adeline Harrison had the maid throw acid on me, I called Nolan Harrison for help. Not only did he not believe me, but he also scolded me on the phone for slandering Adeline Harrison, telling me to die far away if I wanted to die. In the end, filled with deep despair and pain, I was beaten to death by people arranged by Adeline Harrison and thrown into the icy, bone-chilling river. In this new life, I will make them pay for their blood debts! Chapter Two Unexpectedly, before Nolan Harrison arrived, my childhood friend Wesley Johnson came pushing a huge bouquet, dressed in a sharp suit, walking gracefully. “Harrison family sister, to show my love for you, I bought out all the flower shops in the city to gather these 9,999 roses.” Phoebe Thompson, Adeline Harrison’s friend, suddenly froze, her face turning pale with shock. She glanced nervously and doubtfully at Adeline Harrison beside her. Could Wesley Johnson’s words be meant for me? Looking at Wesley Johnson’s affectionate expression, I couldn’t help but find it ridiculous. He used to cling to me as a child, often playing the game of groom and bride with me, even telling my dad he wanted to marry me when he grew up. But after seeing the orphan Adeline Harrison, he immediately transferred his affections, starting to fawn over her. Even when Adeline Harrison bullied me, he watched coldly, telling me to recognize my place. Standing in front of Adeline Harrison, Wesley Johnson wore a gentle smile, lightly brushing aside the hair on her forehead, “Adeline, you’re truly beautiful.” Turning his gaze to me, his eyes were sharp as knives, “You, an orphan nearly starved to death on the streets, dare to impersonate the eldest daughter of the Harrison family?” “Cora Harrison, even if you beg me on your knees now, I won’t spare you a glance.” “The only one I love is the true eldest daughter of the Harrison family, Adeline Harrison.” The Wesley Johnson who once swore to love me for a lifetime now shamelessly groveled at the feet of the orphan Adeline Harrison, accusing me of being the one taken in. Many people present already doubted my identity, and now they immediately believed Wesley Johnson’s words, all speaking out against me. “The eldest daughter of the Harrison family is truly kind, always yielding to this brat, only to be bullied in return.” “Such an ungrateful, heartless brat, Mr. Harrison should have let her die on the roadside back then.” The orphan Adeline Harrison was secretly delighted, a trace of pride flashing in her eyes. Watching her and Wesley Johnson exchange flirty glances, I laughed instead of getting angry, removing a blood-patterned white jade shaped like a phoenix from my neck, holding it high. “This is the Phoenix Blood Jade that has been passed down through the Harrison family generations. Only the true eldest daughter of the Harrison family has the right to wear it.” “Adeline Harrison, do you have it?” Everyone quickly stepped forward, scrutinizing the Phoenix Blood Jade carefully. Many among them were long-time friends of my parents, exclaiming in surprise. “I’ve heard Mr. Harrison mention this before. It seems Cora Harrison is indeed Mr. Harrison’s daughter.” “Strange. Then why did the Harrison family young master tell us Mr. Harrison invited us here to pave the way for Miss Adeline Harrison?” Adeline Harrison instantly panicked, her face turning white. She knew nothing about the Phoenix Blood Jade, let alone possessed one. Wesley Johnson, my childhood friend, suddenly laughed, “Cora Harrison, you randomly pick up some junk from a street vendor and claim it’s the Harrison family’s heirloom? Then I could buy a hairpin and say it was worn by Empress Wu Zetian.” Once again, those present were plunged into confusion, their eyes darting between Adeline Harrison and me, unsure of what to believe. “That’s odd. Why did the young master of the Harrison family tell us that Mr. Harrison invited us here to give Ms. Adeline Harrison an advantage?” Adeline Harrison suddenly looked alarmed, her face going pale. She knew nothing about the Phoenix Blood Jade and couldn’t possibly possess it. Wesley Johnson, with whom I shared many childhood memories, suddenly laughed. “Cora Harrison, you picked up some trinket from a street vendor and claim it’s the Harrison family heirloom? If I bought a hairpin, I could say it was once worn by Empress Wu Zetian.” The people around us were puzzled again, their eyes darting between me and Adeline, unsure of what to believe. Coming from a prestigious family, I was raised with cultural refinement, possessing a graceful and dignified manner. Adeline, an orphan who came to live with us, read a lot but couldn’t fully erase her innate duplicity. No matter how much she tried to imitate, it was just a poor attempt. Feeling guilty, Adeline’s confidence wavered, yet she stubbornly argued. “You claim to be the Harrison family’s eldest daughter, so why does my brother always take me to important events instead of you?” The more Wesley Johnson looked at me, the more he found me irritating. “Adeline has treated you like a sister since childhood, yet you repay her with betrayal. How shameless!” Their performance swayed the crowd towards them again. I wanted to explain further, but several security guards forcibly grabbed my arms. Adeline’s friend, Phoebe Thompson, immediately slapped me in retaliation. Not satisfied, she hit my face with her bag. “You’re just someone the Harrison family took in, yet you want to take everything from Adeline?” “Apologize to Adeline right now!” Blood trickled from the corner of my mouth, dripping to the ground and splattering like a small red flower. I glared at the three of them, filled with intense hatred. “Wait until my parents arrive and see how you explain this to them.” In the past, Adeline, the orphan, replaced me as the Harrison family’s eldest daughter. I was harmed by her, my body sinking in the dark river. My parents didn’t know and thought I had run away in anger, searching the world for me. This time, I immediately told my parents and asked them to come back quickly because something important was happening at home. By my calculation, they should arrive in a few minutes. Adeline saw me spitting blood and quietly mocked me. “Dad and mom are going abroad; they won’t come back. Telling such a lie is incredibly foolish.” “Besides, Wesley’s father has decades of friendship with our parents and owns a multinational corporation. If I marry Wesley, even if our parents find out the truth in the future, they wouldn’t dare do anything to me.” As soon as she finished speaking, a voice suddenly shouted, “Nonsense! What are you doing?” Chapter Three I looked up to see my cousin Nolan Harrison striding in with eight bodyguards. The security guards quickly released me and retreated. Adeline, the orphan, was so scared she nearly fell but sighed in relief when she saw it was Nolan. She then shot me a gloating glance. A maid with a bruised face was pushed by the bodyguards in front of me, crying with an apologetic look. Nolan Harrison came over, first checking that Adeline was okay, then glaring at me coldly with disgust in his eyes. “Good thing Adeline is fine. Otherwise, no matter how much you, an orphan we took in, try to please me, I wouldn’t spare you!” In the past, no matter what happened, Nolan always favored Adeline. To survive, I mimicked Adeline’s behavior to please Nolan, but they treated me like a clown, mocking and ridiculing me, making me feel worthless. Over time, those unaware of the truth thought I was the orphan they took in. Now I understand that trying to please someone who doesn’t like you deep down is futile. I’m sorry, but it seems that the text to be translated hasn’t been provided or is missing from your request. Could you please supply the specific text that needs translation?

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296513”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn

The popular guy decided to become the bodyguard for the heiress of my family, just so he could always be near me. We shared secret moments of freedom 99 times in the mansion’s basement. The room was dark and windowless, with just a narrow single bed. Yet, he seemed to relish it. After each encounter, he’d hold me close and say it was all worth it for me. He’d often make grand promises, swearing to the sky. “One day, when I’m wealthy, I’ll buy you a mansion this big, and I’ll definitely marry you.” His words pushed me to secretly juggle eight or nine jobs every day. But it wasn’t to buy a grand house. It was to afford a better cochlear implant for his congenital deafness. One day, while washing dishes at a restaurant, I unexpectedly ran into Declan. He was supposed to be working at the mansion. 1 Declan pulled out a premium gold card and ordered a lavish meal worth over a hundred thousand with his friends. I was cleaning in the next room and could hear their conversation clearly. “Declan, how long are you going to play with that young maid? If she finds out you’re worth billions and haven’t spent a dime on her, she’d probably cry.” “You don’t get it, Declan’s doing this to upset Adeline. Adeline’s taken a liking to Declan’s chauffeur, so Declan’s flirting with Adeline’s maid to see who gives in first.” “Do you really think Declan would fall for someone so insignificant?” “But Declan’s quite the romantic. To see Adeline all the time, he’d even work as a bodyguard for her family. Respect.” “And how’s that young maid? Is she any good in bed?” Their degrading words pierced my heart, leaving me wounded. Declan didn’t utter a word, letting them speak about me in such vile terms. It was only then I realized the truth. The man working alongside me in Adeline’s family was actually the wealthiest young master in the elite circle! The person he wanted to see wasn’t me, but the heiress Adeline. He deceived my feelings and used my body because my status was lowly. Just like the chauffeur Adeline liked, we’re all ants they could crush. I carried the tray back to the kitchen, only noticing I’d cut my hand deeply when my colleague gasped. Blood stained every step I took. After composing myself in the kitchen, I called my advisor. “I want to go to Africa as an exchange student. Please give me this opportunity.” I fought back tears, but my voice still trembled. Thankfully, my advisor didn’t press further, just expressed surprise and concern. “Zoe, have you really thought this through? The research in Africa is extremely challenging. You can’t return for at least five years or see your family. Didn’t you say your boyfriend is disabled, and you’re worried about him?” Someone like Declan, even with hearing issues, would have countless people lining up to curry favor with him. He doesn’t need my concern. I replied firmly, “I’ve made up my mind. I’m going to Africa.” My advisor was pleased. “That’s good. I was worried you’d miss this great opportunity. I’ll register you now, and the flight is in two weeks.” “If you’re really worried about your boyfriend, give me his number, and I’ll check on him periodically.” I looked at the cochlear implant I had already ordered on my phone, trying to smile, but it felt bitter. “No need. We’re planning to break up.” After finishing my late shift at the restaurant, I resigned and collected my pay from my supervisor. Returning to the mansion, Declan was already waiting in the room. “Why are you back so late? Zoe, what happened to your hand? What have you been busy with? You look pale.” I pulled back my hand that he was examining closely. “Almost graduating, been busy.” Declan didn’t care about my response and turned to take out a bottle of luxury face serum from his backpack, smiling happily. “I bought this with my salary for you. I saw other girls love it. Do you like it?” I placed it on the coffee table, expressionless. “I like it.” He seemed surprised that I didn’t even pick it up to look. In the past, I’d treasure a fifty-dollar phone case from him, too reluctant to use it, even scolding him for wasting money. Now, looking back, I was so foolish. Declan cautiously asked, “What’s wrong? Are you unhappy?” I pretended nothing was wrong. “No, you don’t need to buy me such expensive cosmetics. Didn’t you say you were saving up to get married?” Seeing me behave as usual, he visibly relaxed, hugging me from behind and nuzzling my ear. “Don’t worry about saving money for me. I’ll give you a good life. You can even bathe in luxury face serum.” I hid my scorn, pushed him away, and returned to the bedroom. I picked up my phone to book a moving company and saw Adeline’s new Snapchat story. “Thanks to someone for personally bringing me to the hotel.” “But this presidential suite is too shabby. Next time, book a better one.” 2 The hotel in Adeline’s photo has rooms starting at fifty thousand a night. Above the bright bathtub, there’s a row of luxury skincare products. The luxury face serum Declan gave me was among them, the least noticeable. It turns out, what he gave me was a freebie from Adeline’s hotel. Not costing him a dime. I should have felt heartbroken, shed tears, cursed the man’s heartlessness. But at this moment, I couldn’t muster the desire to confront him. My heart died today. I’m poor, but I have dignity. Why become the clown for these young masters and heiresses to toy with? Thinking Declan was someone from my world was the dumbest mistake of my life. In the following week, I didn’t see Declan. He said Adeline was traveling, and he had to protect the heiress. But I saw his phone records. I knew he arranged to airlift 520 bouquets to each city along the way, planning to propose to Adeline. I didn’t expose him. I just went to school and completed the procedures for my trip to Africa. But before a week passed, Declan returned in a sorry state. His forehead was hot enough to fry an egg, his eyes red from fever, and he collapsed onto me, questioning in tears. “Do you know how much I’ve done for you?” “You love flowers, I had them airlifted. You love diamonds, I bid a hundred million for a ring. I invited all my friends to witness my proposal, but why, why did you take him to the hospital just because he coughed once?” “I’ve loved you for over a decade. I lowered myself to be a bodyguard for your family. Can’t you see my sincerity?” His burning tears fell on my shoulder. For the first time, I saw Declan so miserable, but I felt no sympathy. He was delirious from the fever. He mistook me for Adeline. And obviously, his confession to Adeline failed again. The room was dimly lit, and I suddenly thought, during our intimate moments, he never saw my face clearly. What was he thinking? Declan crawled off me, his swollen red eyes staring straight at me. I thought he had come to his senses and was about to speak, but he removed his cochlear implant from his ears. He held the little things in his palm, presenting them to me. “Adeline, I didn’t fall for Zoe. Look at this Bluetooth earbuds, it’s filled with your voice.” I froze. Taking the objects from his palm, my fingers trembled uncontrollably. The small device slipped from my grasp, but in that brief moment, I saw it clearly. It was just a pair of Bluetooth earbuds. His so-called congenital deafness was a lie. An imported cochlear implant costs 150,000, money I earned through starvation and exhaustion. Yet, with me, he listened to Adeline’s voice. I slapped Declan hard across the face and left the mansion, leaving him in his fevered state. Declan developed pneumonia. When he woke in the hospital, he had no idea why his face hurt so much. And I wasn’t there. In the past, if Declan was even slightly uncomfortable, I’d stay up all night watching over him. Afraid something might happen to him. But now I’m gone. Not only that, when Declan asked other servants in Adeline’s family, he found out I had quit. When Declan called me, the panic almost spilled from the screen. I never thought he’d care so much about my whereabouts. “Zoe, why did you quit? Where are you planning to go if you’re not working here?” I packed my things into the suitcase. “My contract with Adeline’s family ended. I can find a formal job after graduation.” Declan’s tone softened. “Yeah, with your good grades, many companies would want you. It’s better than being a maid.” “But my contract isn’t over. I have to keep working. Adeline’s family pays well, and I can save up quickly to marry you.” I casually replied and hung up. The chauffeur appeared more frequently in Adeline’s Snapchat stories. Often with photos of them kissing and holding hands. Every time Adeline showed off her relationship, Declan would call, speaking incoherently, making no sense. He was also insistent on saying he loved me and missed me in the mansion of Adeline’s family. He even mentioned his ears hurt and wanted me to massage them. I just listened quietly. “My contract isn’t over yet. I’ll keep working a bit longer. Adeline’s family pays well, and soon I’ll have enough money to marry you.” I replied offhandedly and hung up the phone. In Adeline’s Snapchat story, that chauffeur appeared more and more often. There were frequent photos of them kissing and holding hands. Every time Adeline flaunted her love, Declan would call me. His words were always muddled and hard to understand. He kept insisting he loved me and missed me at Adeline’s family’s mansion. He even mentioned his ear hurt a little and asked if I could massage it for him. I listened without saying a word. Three days before the flight, I shipped all my luggage to Africa. Two days before the flight, I got a new SIM card and told all my friends I was going to Africa as an exchange student for five years. Until the last day, the cochlear implant staff contacted me to install it for a patient at home. Declan’s friend called to say Declan was drunk and kept calling out for me. After thinking for a moment, I told him, “Where are you guys? I have something to give him.” Everything of mine was out of the country except for a cardboard box I packed. Inside were all the things Declan had given me, carefully preserved. On each item, I noted what he had originally bought. A bouquet of dried flowers was originally a 3,000-yuan fresh bouquet, cost zero yuan. A box of macarons was exchanged with points after buying 20,000-yuan chocolates, cost zero yuan. A teddy bear was a prize from a game after he rented out an amusement park, cost zero yuan. The box was full. Each item was beautifully packaged, as if meticulously prepared by its owner. But they were all dispensable freebies. In Declan’s eyes, maybe I was just another freebie from Adeline. Compared to the main person, I was too easy to get and even easier to abandon. I put a notebook inside. It was my record of saving money for a cochlear implant. Tutoring, 200 yuan an hour. Writing copy, 150 yuan a piece. Selling bracelets, 25 yuan each. I recorded every drop of my blood, sweat, and tears. It ended up as a 150,000-yuan bill that was already refunded. I took them and rushed to the bar Declan’s friend mentioned. As soon as I entered, I saw Declan kissing Adeline under the spotlight in the center of the bar. His face was full of joy as he happily announced to everyone present, “Today’s on me, put all your tabs on my bill.” He didn’t see me. Declan’s friend, sweating, tried to explain, “Sister-in-law, it’s all a misunderstanding. Declan recently won a prize and is in a good mood.” “He and Miss Adeline both drank too much and lost their sense of boundaries.” I handed him the box. “It’s okay, I don’t mind. Tell Declan I’ve broken up with him.” I turned and got into a cab to the airport. By the time the car arrived at the airport, two hours had passed. My phone kept ringing, and Instagram notifications buzzed nonstop. They were all from Declan. I didn’t answer any calls or look at any messages. Without any hesitation, I pulled out the SIM card and blocked and deleted Declan. After passing through the ticket gate, I left this place and would never return in this lifetime. ### Chapter 2 I’m sorry, but I am unable to fulfill your request because the specific text you need translated is missing. If you can provide the exact content you’d like translated, I’ll be happy to assist! 4 Declan cleared his mind. When he saw that box, the thrill of his successful confession was still buzzing in his head. He hadn’t considered what Zoe might do next. The thought of breaking up with a girl who was so devoted to him stirred a touch of reluctance in his heart.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296512”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn

Everyone in the city knows me as a Manhattan socialite. Jasper loves me deeply. I once thought I would spend a warm and peaceful life with him. But everything changed when his adopted sister, Kaia, developed gender identity disorder and became obsessed with him, treating him as if he were a romantic partner. When I confronted Jasper, he was indifferent: “It’s just temporary. Be patient. Once Kaia gets better, I’ll love you again!” He allowed Kaia to hurt me repeatedly without concern. My heart grew weary. On the day he married Kaia, I started a confidential 10-year project. Later, I heard my husband mention that Jasper had been searching for me for ten years. “Adeline, we really had no other choice.” I stared blankly at the signed divorce papers in the living room. Jasper’s mother spoke with a tone of helplessness and pain, but I caught a fleeting smile at the corner of her mouth. “Kaia’s illness came out of nowhere. She only recognizes her brother, and we watched her grow up…” “Adeline, we didn’t want this to happen. Can you… understand?” I opened my mouth but couldn’t speak. Jasper, who had been silent, looked at me with guilt. “Adeline, the doctor says Kaia’s illness is peculiar, but she’s recovering quickly, just a few months.” “Could we divorce temporarily? To stabilize Kaia’s emotions, and we’ll remarry once she’s stable, okay?” Jasper’s eyes were sincere. “Kaia may be adopted, but she’s been family for years.” “Exactly!” My mother-in-law chimed in. ” Adeline, a divorce is also good for you. We’ll compensate you financially,” “You can travel for a few months, and Kaia’s illness will be cured, not affecting your relationship with Jasper!” My fingers trembled, and the words stuck in my throat wouldn’t come out. In Manhattan, I’m known as the most famous “good girl” in the upper circles. My life’s decisions were all made by my family, with Jasper being the only exception. He promised to always love me, and he kept that promise well, except his sister Kaia targeted and pranked me when Jasper wasn’t around. She once said Jasper was her man and I was intruding. My mother-in-law even hinted several times that Kaia was her ideal daughter-in-law. I thought I could endure them with Jasper’s love for decades until three days ago when Kaia claimed she could make Jasper divorce me. Today, she was diagnosed with gender identity disorder, and even got Jasper to sign the divorce papers. Her actions were too fast… I felt a chill and looked at Jasper. “Jasper, only by divorcing me can Kaia’s illness be cured, right?” “How can you be sure she’s really sick and not faking it to trick you?” But Jasper’s eyes were full of disapproval: “Adeline, you don’t understand. Why would Kaia pretend to be sick to make us divorce?” “And what benefit would that give her?” “Yeah, Adeline, how can you say that about Kaia?” My mother-in-law disagreed as well. “Alright, stop hesitating and just sign the divorce papers!” I clenched my fist, my eyes hot, my hand instinctively covering my abdomen. I was already two months pregnant, the baby’s heartbeat was already there… I had planned to surprise Jasper and my mother-in-law after returning from the hospital, but what awaited me was a divorce agreement. In the past, when I was dating Jasper, my parents had warned me he wasn’t the right person for me. I didn’t believe them. But now, I realize I might have been wrong… My hand trembled as I picked up the pen to sign my name, pressing hard into the paper. As soon as I finished, my mother-in-law eagerly picked up the papers and smiled. “Good! Now Kaia’s illness should recover!” She looked at me with a more genuine smile. “Adeline, it’s good you understand our family’s difficulties. I’ve always told Jasper that you’re a good girl and would understand!” “Don’t worry, even if we’re divorced, we’re still family. This is just temporary!” Jasper also held my hand tightly, full of guilt and love. “I’m sorry, Adeline. In a few months, I’ll hold a grand wedding to bring you back in!” I forced a smile, my heart aching. I went upstairs first, and once back in my room, I couldn’t hold back the tears any longer. Just then, a message vibrated on my phone. It was from my professor. [Xiao Xu, I really hope you’ll consider the S-level project research!] [I know a 10-year confidentiality period is hard for you to accept, but you’re the head of the institution, and without you, this project will be tough!] Through blurred vision, I typed my reply: [Professor, I agree to go to Y City. I’ll depart with the research team in two days!] After replying, I slid to the ground as if all my strength had left me. I had already tasted the bitter fruit of marrying Jasper against all odds. But now, I didn’t want to endure this pain any longer. Fortunately, it wasn’t too late. Jasper, this time, you personally pushed me away.

The next day, I scheduled a medical abortion. After the procedure, I left the hospital, clutching my stomach, and went to a nearby restaurant to regain my strength. There, I saw the last person I wanted to see—Kaia. “Hey! Adeline, did you really sign the divorce papers?” “Hahaha, I told you, how could you compete with me for my brother Jasper?” I forced myself to sit up and glared at her. “Your method of dealing with me is pretending to be sick to trick Jasper. Are you so sure it won’t backfire one day?” Kaia shrugged. “Why worry? Even if I am pretending, so what?” “Jasper had so many girlfriends over the years, I ruined them all, and he never said a word to me. But only you, Jasper wouldn’t let go, so I had to do this!” Her face twisted as she stood over me. “Adeline, Jasper loved your high and mighty, obedient nature. But I want to see, if you turn from a good girl to a harlot, what will he think of you then?” With that, Kaia gave a meaningful smile and left the café. I felt furious and uneasy, but could only suppress it and returned to the old house left by my parents. That night, I slept restlessly, my right eyelid twitching constantly, only barely falling asleep in the early hours. The next morning, I was awakened by the phone ringing. Looking at it, I saw nearly hundreds of missed calls, from friends and other unknown numbers. A foreboding feeling washed over me, and with trembling hands, I called a friend back. The next second, my friend’s panicked voice pierced my eardrums: “Adeline, what’s going on? Do you know your private photos have been spread all over the city!” My heart skipped a beat, and I quickly opened the video forwarded by my friend. In it, on a city’s Ferris wheel capable of projection, my photos, without a stitch of clothing, flushed and asleep, were pieced together into a puzzle, being completed above the Ferris wheel! In an instant, my mind exploded, and my whole body trembled uncontrollably. I remembered the photo. After getting married, Jasper and I had a harmonious intimate life. He was always innovative and even bought a camera to record it. This camera was always well kept by Jasper. But why… why were my photos projected on the Ferris wheel? Someone had even started a live broadcast, showing everything. I watched helplessly as the live comments were full of insults, calling me a harlot, a whore… With shaking hands, I dialed Jasper’s number, but it was always off. A flash of realization hit me, recalling Kaia’s meaningful smile before she left. Before I could react, a message from Kaia came through. [Do you like the gift I gave you?] [Adeline, with your wanton appearance, no wonder my brother is so obsessed with you!] [Do you like this gift? Should I give you another big one?] I rushed home in anger. When I arrived, Jasper was agitated, and when he saw me, guilt flickered in his eyes. “Adeline, I originally lent that camera to Kaia to take some photos, but Kaia lent it to someone else,” “I didn’t realize there were such photos in it, so…” Jasper apologized, but Kaia, unseen by him, looked at me with a smug expression. “Jasper, do you still think Kaia was careless?” I couldn’t hold back my emotions any longer and pointed at Kaia, choking up. “This is clearly her pretending to be sick to force us to divorce, then deliberately releasing my photos!” “She must have been in and out of our room often; otherwise, how could she know where the camera was!” But Jasper’s gaze darkened. “Adeline, stop it! I told you Kaia accidentally did it!” “This is my fault, but don’t worry, I’ll handle it!” As soon as Jasper finished, Kaia rushed over with teary eyes. “Brother Jasper, are you going to ignore me? I’m carrying your child!” “I’m clearly male, how could I be pregnant with your child? Or did you deliberately want me to have one?” “She must come and go from our room often; otherwise, how would she know where the camera is?” But Jasper’s eyes darkened. “Adeline, stop overreacting! I’ve already told you it was Kaia’s carelessness that caused this!” “This is my fault; don’t worry, I’ll handle it!” As soon as Jasper finished speaking, Kaia rushed up with tears in her eyes. “Brother Jasper, are you going to ignore me now? I’m carrying your child!” “But I’m a man, how could I be carrying your child? Or did you deliberately make me have a child?” Kaia spoke with a smug look, staring at me. I was stunned. A child? Jasper and Aunt Sue looked uncomfortable. A flash of realization hit me, and I began trembling. “Jasper, what does she mean? Explain yourself!” Jasper looked awkward, but the next second, my mother-in-law stood up. “Alright, if you’re too embarrassed to say it, I will!” “Adeline, the reason we want you to divorce isn’t just because Kaia is unwell. The most important thing is that Kaia is pregnant with Jasper’s child, and it’s been two months!” I stood there in disbelief, frozen. Jasper’s face showed embarrassment. “Adeline, believe me! I was drugged that day and mistook Kaia for you, that’s why…” I took a few steps back, my heart aching as if it were curling up. Suddenly, I remembered that two months ago, Jasper did say he was set up, but at the time, he explained it as a contract setup. Turns out he was actually involved with Kaia that day… No wonder he reeked of alcohol when he came back that night, and there was a hint of madness mixed with guilt in his eyes when he was with me. So, he was hiding it from me two months ago… Cold sweat soaked through my clothes. This is the “big gift” Kaia gave me. “Adeline, don’t blame Jasper and Kaia. Kaia is our adopted daughter, but she has no blood relation with Jasper,” my mother-in-law said. “Plus, Kaia has liked Jasper for so many years. It’s nothing for them to be together!” “Just think of it as them playing house. When Kaia recovers, you can remarry!” My mother-in-law’s words interrupted my thoughts. “Adeline, I know you’ve always been obedient and sensible, don’t be too bothered by it,” she continued. “If you’re really reluctant to part with Jasper, you can still have a child and be part of our family!” I let out a sarcastic laugh, tears streaming uncontrollably. This is the man I loved, the man and family I insisted on marrying against my parents’ wishes… Ignoring Jasper’s calls, I rushed out the door. When I came to my senses, I found myself back at the old house. A notification sounded, and I picked it up to see yet another message from Kaia! My heart ached unbearably, and I closed my eyes in pain. What more does she want?! I opened the message page; Kaia’s message appeared: [You lost! Remember to come to my and Jasper’s wedding tomorrow~] [Sister-in-law~~ I’ll make sure you see me and brother happy with your own eyes, you’ll be jealous~~] Attached was a photo of Jasper preparing pregnancy oil for Kaia. My vision blurred again. If it weren’t for Kaia, Jasper and I should have been like this too… The notification sounded again; this time it was a message from Professor: [Adeline, the paperwork is done, you’re leaving tomorrow!] I wiped my tears, and my blurred vision became clear again. I may be gentle and obedient, but that doesn’t mean I’m willing to be degraded, blindly trusting. Jasper, Kaia, and my mother-in-law all disgust me. So, this relationship isn’t worth keeping. I picked up my phone, looking for the account owner I hadn’t contacted in a long time. Jasper, if I find evidence of Kaia faking her illness, what will you do then? At that time, what would you do? * The next morning, I packed my luggage and had someone ship it to the airport. At the same time, Jasper came to the old house to find me. “I found a flight purchase record; are you going somewhere?” “Today… is my and Kaia’s wedding, won’t you come to see me?” I turned my head, looking at the wounded face of Jasper in his groom’s suit. Before and after marriage, Jasper always liked to stick to me. He kept a tight grip on my schedule, always knowing what I was doing, except for the confidential research project in Y City, which I didn’t tell him about. At this moment, I was very glad I hadn’t told him about it. “Yeah, going out for a break,” I responded lightly. Jasper was silent for a moment, then spoke with a hoarse voice, “Adeline, I admit I was a jerk in this matter, and I wronged you,” he said, “But I really didn’t do it on purpose. I mistook Kaia for you that day, that’s why we’re in this mess.” “Plus, Kaia is ill now, I really have no choice, can you understand me? I’m in pain too!” Jasper grasped my shoulders, “Adeline, I know you’ve always been good and sensible. I’ve already invited foreign doctors to treat Kaia’s illness. As for the child… Kaia’s health has always been weak; she can only give birth.” “But don’t worry, I won’t let this child affect us, so can you attend the wedding and then go for a break?” I pulled a sarcastic smile, the pain in my heart becoming numb. “Okay,” I heard myself answer. Jasper’s face instantly showed a smile, “Then I’ll go to the chapel first, you hurry and come over, I’ll be waiting for you!” I watched as Jasper left in a hurry, picked up my luggage, and took a taxi to the airport. At the same time, the account owner sent me a folder, [It’s handled, you don’t need to worry about your ex-husband’s wedding!] [Focus on your own stuff, I’ve got your back!] Looking at the message on my phone, I smiled slightly, Jasper, from now on, let’s never meet again. I’m sorry, but it appears that the Chinese text you want translated is missing. Could you please provide the text you’d like me to translate? 4. “Son, the wedding is about to begin. What’s keeping you?” Jasper’s mother asked, puzzled to see Jasper still outside the venue.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296511”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn

Husband’s long-lost love returned with a child. She had been gone for six years. For six years, he missed her. Five years ago, my face was scarred. He was the one who performed my reconstructive surgery. From the day we met to the day we married, he was always fascinated by my face. But he was indifferent to our daughter. Until I saw a woman in the hospital who looked just like me. I realized he always saw me as a substitute. I can accept not being loved, but I won’t accept love built on deceit. “Uncle Joe, can you book me a flight home in three days…” If we can’t be together, I’ll choose to distance myself. — On the other end of the phone, a very familiar voice came through. “Miss, you’re finally willing to come back!” “Mr. and Mrs. have been hoping for you every day. You insisted on proving yourself, and then you had a big fallout with the family over a man…” “It’s been six years, and they just want you to come back so the family can be whole again!” Hearing this, my nose tingled, and tears began to flow uncontrollably. “Please tell my parents I was wrong… I’ll bring Sweetie home with me…” After hanging up, I sat by my daughter Sweetie’s hospital bed, crying helplessly. I recalled the scene in the hospital lobby just now. Ethan Johnson was holding another child’s hand, gently coaxing her to sleep. Beside him sat a woman, leaning closely against him. They looked like a real family, making one envious. When that woman turned her head, I couldn’t believe my eyes; she looked exactly like me! I instantly felt a chill and steadied myself against the wall. So, I was always just her stand-in? I always knew Ethan Johnson had a long-lost love who went missing six years ago while working abroad. But I never knew her name or what she looked like. I heard about it from a best friend who often received treatments from Ethan Johnson. He never mentioned this other woman to me, so I never thought much of it. Who would have thought, the template he used for my surgery was actually based on her face! Turns out, I had already seen his lost and found love… No wonder he always tenderly caressed my face after the surgery; I thought he genuinely loved me. I didn’t realize he was seeing another woman through my face… My daughter slowly woke up, and I quickly held her cold little hands. She looked around and weakly asked, “Mom, didn’t Dad come?” Facing my daughter’s question, I didn’t know how to answer. I forced a smile, making an excuse for Ethan Johnson. “Dad’s busy with work and can’t come over, but Mom’s here with you.” Though my daughter seemed a bit disappointed, the look quickly faded. Her little face broke into a smile, comforting me instead: “It’s okay! As long as Mom is with me~” If it weren’t for Sweetie suddenly having a high fever that night, I anxiously called Ethan Johnson. He said he had an important client for surgery and couldn’t take Sweetie to the hospital. I wouldn’t have discovered that he had no such surgery… His daughter had a persistent high fever, yet he was at the same hospital, with his long-lost love and their child… I gently stroked my daughter’s pale face, more determined to leave. — Sweetie was discharged the next day after her fever subsided, and I took her home. I immediately contacted a lawyer to draft a divorce agreement. While passing by Ethan Johnson’s clinic, I saw a familiar figure enter the clinic; it was his long-lost love. I quickly put on sunglasses and a mask, covering my face tightly, and cautiously followed her. The nurse at the front desk saw her enter, mistaking her for me, Warmly greeted her and joked, “What brings you here today? Checking up on Brother Ethan?” She smiled politely but didn’t answer. In no time, Ethan Johnson came down from upstairs, his face lighting up with a bright smile upon seeing her, gently smoothing her hair. The nurses at the front desk watched excitedly, envious of their affection. “Why did you come suddenly?” Ethan Johnson asked. “Sunny wanted you to take her to the amusement park, so I came to ask if Dr. Johnson is available?” she replied. “Of course I am! Let me change clothes, wait for me in my office.” With that, she took Ethan Johnson’s arm, and they went upstairs together. The nurse at the front desk muttered, “Something seems off with her today.” Another nurse excitedly said, “Didn’t you notice she has a beauty mark today? Absolutely stunning!” “Indeed!” “Standing with our director, they truly are a perfect match!” I clenched my fists, my fingertips digging into my palm, yet feeling no pain. Perhaps now, the only difference between her face and mine is that beauty mark at the corner of her eye. Recalling the past, when a stranger threw acid on me, disfiguring my face, A best friend recommended Ethan Johnson’s business card to me. He enthusiastically suggested that face, saying the template was somewhat similar to my previous look, making surgery easier. I nodded in agreement, but felt the beauty mark seemed too seductive on that face. He immediately restrained his smile, his tone turning cold: “If you don’t like the beauty mark, we won’t do it.” My heart tightened, unsure what I said to upset him. He quickly switched back to a professional smile, continuing to explain the specific surgical process. So, that beauty mark became his long-lost love’s exclusive mark. Whenever I wanted to please him, I would use eyeliner to dot a beauty mark at the corner of my eye… “Hello? Are you here for a procedure?” The voice of the front desk girl pulled me back to reality. I snapped back, hurriedly gestured no, and rushed out of the hospital as if fleeing. — After putting Sweetie to sleep, I sat at home waiting for Ethan Johnson to return. He hadn’t come back even by midnight. My mind kept imagining Ethan Johnson with his long-lost love and child, happily strolling through the amusement park. Sweetie once said she wanted to go to the amusement park with both mom and dad. But he coldly refused: “You guys go, I’m not interested in amusement parks.” He took me there, I took my daughter there. But we never went as a family. Feeling a wave of frustration, I clenched the corner of the divorce agreement tightly. The sound of the door opening caught my attention. Ethan Johnson finally came back. He still wore a cute antler headband from the amusement park. He glanced at me and asked indifferently, “Why aren’t you asleep?” I stood up to hand him the divorce agreement. His phone suddenly rang, the caller ID displayed “Lydia.” That must be his long-lost love’s name, I guess. He answered instantly, his voice tender enough to drown someone. “What’s up?” I heard a woman’s anxious voice on the other end: “Ethan! Sunny started vomiting and having diarrhea after coming back from the amusement park! I don’t know what’s wrong with her! Please come over!” He kicked off his new slippers, putting on his outside shoes again. I quickly grabbed his clothes, handing him the divorce agreement. “Sign it,” I said blandly. Without even looking, he swiftly signed his name. Then he slammed the door and left. I stared at the divorce agreement, exhaustion evident in my eyes. Because she returned, you don’t need this fake anymore, is that why you treat me like this? I squatted down, unable to stop the tears from falling. Sweetie gently opened the door and came out, seeing me trembling. She hugged me with her slender arms. “Mommy, don’t cry. It’s okay if Daddy doesn’t love us. Sweetie loves Mommy, and Mommy loves Sweetie, that’s enough.” I looked up at my understanding Sweetie, tears flowing uncontrollably. I hugged her and asked, “How about Mommy takes you away?” She nodded obediently, “Okay.” — Tomorrow is the day I leave with Sweetie. And today is my birthday. Ethan Johnson had booked a birthday party for me a month in advance, inviting everyone from the hospital. When I took my daughter to the birthday party venue, I found no one there. Seeing the empty venue, my daughter looked up and asked, “Mom, isn’t today your birthday? Why is no one here? Isn’t Dad coming?” I squatted down to explain to her, “Maybe they got the time wrong, let’s wait a bit.” I asked the waiter to watch my daughter while I went to the restroom. On the way back, I passed a room with a banner saying “Happy Birthday Lydia!” The door was ajar, and it seemed lively inside. I peeked in and saw the front desk nurse from the hospital was there too. I frowned and leaned closer, seeing familiar faces from the hospital. Ethan Johnson was holding his long-lost love’s slender waist, kissing her in front of everyone. There were whistles and cheers. And I, peeking through the door crack outside, felt like an outsider. Ethan Johnson joyfully picked up the child named Sunny, raising his chin to point at the woman looking at him tenderly. “Look closely, the one with the beauty mark at the corner of her eye is your real sister-in-law!” People from the hospital raised their hands to ask: “What should we call the previous one? The fake sister-in-law?” A burst of laughter echoed. I peeked inside and noticed that the hospital’s front desk nurse was present. Frowning, I leaned closer to get a better look—it was all familiar faces from the hospital. Ethan Johnson was holding the slender waist of his Ideal Love, kissing her in front of everyone. The crowd erupted with whistles and cheers. Meanwhile, I stood outside, peeking through the door, feeling like an outsider.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “296510”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #惊悚Thriller #浪漫Romance #重生Reborn