It was common knowledge that I was Jack’s doormat. He told everyone I was unwanted trash. For three years, I endured it all because his face resembled Alex’s. Until I saw Alex again. Without hesitation, I broke up with Jack. He glared at me angrily, asking why. I mockingly told him, “My first love is back, so it’s time to throw away the substitute trash like you.” I sat quietly on the sofa, listening to the flirtatious sounds coming from the bathroom. Moments later, a naked girl came out, giggling. “Jack, baby, you tore my panties!” Jack came out and pinched her cheek, lovingly saying he’d buy her new ones. The next second, the naked couple started passionately kissing in the living room. I recognized this girl from Instagram. She was Lily, a rising model. Just as they were about to get more intimate, Lily noticed me on the sofa. She let out a shrill scream, “Oh my God, why are you here?!” Jack shielded her behind him and casually asked me, “Why are you back so early?” “I wasn’t busy, so I came home early,” I replied. After sending the young model away, he put on a bathrobe and sat next to me. “I’ve been busy drawing blueprints all afternoon. Give me a shoulder massage.” He was calm now, as if I hadn’t just caught him in the act. I looked up at Jack. His face was so similar to my former love. Initially, to be by Jack’s side, I willingly became his doormat. I was tolerant and generous towards all the women around him. Even his friends said that finding a woman as understanding as me would be hard even with a searchlight. I always just smiled without saying anything. Because no one knew that I was so submissive only because he looked 60% like Alex. Today was my birthday. I had planned to come home early to change clothes and go out for dinner. I didn’t expect to come home and witness such a scene. Before, I thought that if I just behaved and listened, I could stay by his side. But today I realized that he was a cold-hearted person. No matter how obedient and hardworking I was, it would be in vain. As I massaged Jack’s shoulders, I slowly spoke: “Jack, let’s break up.”

The air suddenly became still. Jack went to the study and returned with an exquisite velvet box. “Don’t be upset. Here’s your birthday gift.” I didn’t take it. Jack asked if I was jealous of Lily. I shook my head. Jack looked at me with contempt and sneered, “Fine, Emma. If you want to break up, get out now.” I went back to the bedroom and started packing my suitcase. Jack burst in and kicked over my suitcase. “Stop trying to scare me with this act!” After all, in our previous arguments, I was always the first to apologize and make amends. My unusual behavior today made him furious. Jack roughly grabbed me, “Everything you’re wearing, everything you own – which of it isn’t bought by me?” He gripped my neck with one hand and yanked off my necklace. “Do you think you could afford these jewels and designer clothes on your salary?” “Could you have a chauffeur pick you up and drop you off at work?” “Being my girlfriend is your privilege. Don’t be ungrateful.” He threw me to the ground. “You want to leave? Fine. But give back everything I bought you!” “Strip naked and then get out!” I got up expressionlessly. I started taking off my clothes and jewelry piece by piece. Until I stood before him in my underwear, I said, “Here’s everything. There are some jewels I’ve never worn in the safe.” But in truth, he didn’t know that I never liked any of these things. I only wore them to please him. Because Jack always said that as a high-end designer, I couldn’t embarrass him. I dug out a slightly wrinkled white dress from the back of the closet and put it on. Then I zipped up my suitcase, pushed past him, and said, “I’m leaving now.” Just as I reached the living room, I heard his phone ring. “Jack, baby, I bought some new lingerie. Want to see?” He had put the call on speaker, and the coquettish voice on the other end made me feel sick. Jack’s voice was flirtatious, “Sure, you can come over now if you want.” I pushed open the door and left. As I closed the door, I could hear Jack’s roar: “Emma, I’ll make you regret this!”

As I was leaving with my suitcase, I ran into Lily, who had returned. “Leaving? You’d better never come back,” she sneered. “You old hag, squatting in my man’s house. I don’t know how you had the nerve to stay here for so long.” I tried to walk past with my suitcase, but she blocked my way. “Move,” I said. She didn’t budge. “That suitcase is a limited edition Louis Vuitton. Leave it here.” She stood with her arms crossed, looking ready to hit me if I didn’t comply. “These are my personal belongings,” I said. I tried to leave, but she grabbed me. I shook her off forcefully: “Don’t touch me, you filthy thing!” Lily dramatically fell to the ground. “Why did you push me? Waaah…” “Emma! What are you doing?” Jack yelled. Lily cried as Jack helped her up. “Jack, I just wanted your ex to stay. But she called me filthy and told me to get lost.” As soon as she finished speaking, Jack’s hand struck my face. “Who do you think you are? How dare you call her filthy! How clean are you yourself? You hypocritical bitch!” The slap made my head spin and my ears ring. “And sis, about that suitcase, I’ve been trying to buy one but couldn’t. So I thought…” Jack understood her implication. He took out a wad of cash from his wallet and threw it at me. “Leave the suitcase. Now get out.” Lily cried pitifully next to Jack, looking utterly wronged to anyone watching. I crouched down to pick up the money and put it in my pocket. “The suitcase costs $2,600. Transfer me another $2,000 and we’re even.” Lily stomped her feet in anger beside Jack. Jack clenched his jaw. “Fine! I’ll transfer it now. Then get out of my sight immediately!”

After leaving, I deleted all contact information for Jack. I rented an apartment and returned to my normal life, commuting between the hospital and home. One day, on my way to the cafeteria. I saw a familiar figure. I wasn’t sure if it was him, so I quickened my pace to follow, but Lily blocked my way. “Sis, if you have time, I’d like to ask you some questions.” “I’m busy,” I replied curtly. She followed me like a dog. “Jack loves the soup you make. I’ll pay top dollar for your recipe.” “Haha, I thought you had him wrapped around your finger. Guess you’ll be dumped sooner or later.” Lily’s face changed instantly. “Emma, I’m being nice here. Don’t push your luck!” I chose to ignore her and walked straight ahead. To my surprise, she caught up and poured her coffee all over my head. “You homewrecker! Have you no shame?” she shouted loudly, drawing everyone’s attention in the hall. “I can’t believe someone like you can be a doctor!” I wiped my face and slapped her hard. “Go ahead and report me if you dare.” Lily wasn’t about to back down. “Just you wait!” Soon after, I was called to the medical affairs department. I was instructed to apologize to Lily. “Emma, without Jack, what are you worth?” she taunted. As we left the department, she slapped me across the face. “You ill-bred thing! I won’t let you off easy!” Watching her walk away, I laughed bitterly at myself. I wondered if Jack was really indulging her or using her to humiliate me. For the next week. Whenever I had patients, there would inevitably be troublemakers. These people would either cry and make a scene or smash things. The outpatient department was in chaos. All the complaints received by the medical affairs department were about me. The director came to question me about how I was doing my job. “Sir! All these people were hired by Lily to cause trouble!” The director wouldn’t listen. He told me to reflect for a week and docked a month’s performance pay. Resting at home, that familiar figure kept haunting my mind. After much deliberation, I dialed that number that had never been answered before. That familiar voice entered my ear. “Hello, who is this?” At that moment, my whole body trembled. “Alex, it’s me, Emma.” The next second, the call was abruptly ended, leaving only a dial tone. Soon after, I received a call from my friend. “Alex is having a book signing event at the Grand Hotel tomorrow. Don’t forget to go!” Looking at the e-ticket she sent, my heart ached. He really was back. “Thank you, Zoe.” I stayed up all night. I tried on over a dozen outfits and learned many makeup tutorials online. The next day, I arrived at the Grand Hotel early to wait. However, I ran into two of Jack’s friends in the lobby. They stumbled towards me, drunk: “Sis-in-law, are you here to see Jack?” “No,” I replied. But they grabbed me, pulling me towards a private room on the second floor. “Jack’s waiting for you.” Before we even entered, I could hear Jack ranting inside: “Emma is just my doormat. She’ll come crawling back after a few days of throwing a tantrum.” “She’s pretty, sure, but I’m tired of her.” “Just worthless trash, that’s all she is.” His friends pushed open the door, and everyone’s eyes turned to me. “Well, well, my obedient dog is back?” Jack sneered. Lily was sitting on his lap, half-dressed. She looked at me with a challenging gaze. “Sis, have you come to your senses? Can’t survive out there on your own? I remember you were quite tough the other day.” Jack pushed the girl aside and came to me, grabbing my chin roughly. “Emma, it’s okay to throw a little tantrum, but know your limits. Who do you think you are to defy me?” “I’ll let the other day slide. Lick this glass of wine clean, and we’ll call it even.” During this time, he had tried various ways to contact me. But I avoided him, which must have angered and humiliated him. He poured the red wine in his hand onto the floor. “Lick it clean!” I shook off his hand because the book signing downstairs was about to start. “What? You won’t take the olive branch I’m offering?” “Do you think you’re some chaste woman? Don’t you know how slutty you are?” I picked up a glass of wine from a nearby table. Then I threw it forcefully in Jack’s face. At that moment, everyone fell silent. I met his eyes and said: “Let me tell you again, we are broken up! I wish you and her all the best, so stop bothering me!” I turned to leave but was blocked by Jack’s friends and pushed back. “Emma! You’re really pushing it!” These people held me in the room and humiliated me for nearly an hour. “Let’s go, I have another party to attend,” Jack finally said. “Emma, remember, you can’t escape me. I’ll always be with you.” With that, Jack left with his group. By the time I got downstairs, the book signing was almost over. I appeared disheveled at the end of the line. Alex was wearing a baseball cap and mask, earnestly signing books for his fans. “Oh my God, you’ve dirtied my bag!” The girl in front of me screamed, drawing everyone’s attention. Her white bag was stained with the dirt from my clothes. “Couldn’t you at least change before coming out? Who would sign a book for someone so filthy?” My face burned with embarrassment as I apologized profusely. The commotion grew louder, and security came to escort me out. “Wait, she’s Mr. Yang’s friend,” a staff member intervened. The staff member took me to change into clean clothes. When I came out of the room, I saw Alex standing at the door. “Are you in some kind of trouble?” he asked. His voice was familiar yet stern. It reminded me of when he used to scold me for not solving math problems correctly years ago. “No, no trouble at all,” I replied. He didn’t say anything more, just instructed his assistant to call a car for me. “Alex,” I called out as he was about to leave. “Why did you lie to me back then?” I almost shouted these words. But he didn’t even turn back, just said softly, “Go home.”

Alex and I were lovers for four years in college. But during the winter break of our senior year. He didn’t return to school, and I couldn’t contact him. The girls in our class who didn’t know the truth started mocking me. “We thought you were really going to marry into a rich family, but you got dumped instead.” “You’re like a fallen bird now, can’t fly anymore.” “Which rich person would want a poor scholarship student anyway?” These rumors persisted for a long time. I pestered our counselor for news about him. The teacher said he didn’t know either. Later, I went to his home. But that house was already empty. Alex had disappeared without a trace in the year I loved him most. During that time, I went crazy searching for him everywhere. Until I met Jack at the hospital. Jack, who looked 60% like Alex, became my lifeline that year. As a resident doctor, I started approaching Jack. I threw myself at this famous designer. My friend came several times to tell me not to do this. “But he looks 60% like Alex, I’ll pretend it’s 100%.”

The rain outside the hotel was pouring. While waiting for my car, I ran into Jack again. He was drunk, holding Lily, and came towards me. “Emma, don’t think you can escape me just because your first love is back. Have you forgotten the days you were my doormat? Want me to remind you now?” “Besides, trash like you, no one wants except me.” Lily took out a card from her bag and threw it at me. “Go buy yourself some clothes. You look like a beggar.” I picked up the card from the ground and slammed it into Lily’s face. Seeing the cut on her cheek, I felt great satisfaction. “You think I don’t have dirt on you? Jack, you’d better watch yourself!” My reaction thoroughly angered Jack, and he raised his hand to hit me again. “Stop!” Alex pulled me behind him. “Mr. Lu, hitting women is never acceptable.” Jack raised an eyebrow, sizing us up. “Well, if it isn’t the great writer? Come to play hero? She’s just a whore, why are you helping her?” “Enough! Jack, shut up!” I shouted. I wasn’t sure what other filth might come out of his mouth. Jack came closer and shoved Alex hard. “Who the fuck do you think you are? You like everything that’s mine, don’t you?” “And Emma, your taste is fucking terrible. He’s just a sickly weakling! Wasn’t I satisfying enough in bed?” Alex still stood protectively in front of me. His voice was stern, “Jack, don’t go too far!” At that moment, the car arrived. Alex took my hand and led me away.

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On my 26th birthday, my husband Zack forced me to sign divorce papers, then immediately went to marry his mistress, Lily Brooks. I was utterly humiliated. But unexpectedly, Zack’s cousin Ryan burst into the party. He brought 50% of the company’s shares as an engagement gift and declared he wanted to marry me. “Aria is the love of my life. I’d do anything for her!” he proclaimed. Three years into our marriage, I still hadn’t gotten pregnant. In fact, my health was deteriorating. I planned to see a doctor, but overheard a conversation between Ryan and the doctor. “You can’t keep giving her birth control pills. Her body can’t take it anymore.” “Lily made me promise Aria would never get pregnant. That’s why I’ve been switching her vitamins. I could never betray Lily.” So he loved Lily too. I was just a tool to make her happy! And the pills I’d been taking every day had been tampered with by Ryan! The doctor sighed and tried to reason with Ryan again. “What you’re doing isn’t fair to Miss Johnson!” “I’ve already sacrificed the rest of my life for her. She should learn to be content!” Heartbroken, I left him that day, never to see him again.

“Aria, it’s your birthday today. Why hasn’t Zack shown up yet?” my friend asked. “He’s probably busy at work. He loves his job,” I replied with a polite smile, though internally I was cringing with embarrassment. Zack Sherman was my husband, but we weren’t in love. Our marriage was arranged by our families to strengthen business ties. Zack despised me, but for the sake of family reputation, I never confronted him about it. In front of reporters and the media, I always strived to be the perfect “Mrs. Sherman.” “Missing your birthday? You need to teach him a lesson when you get home!” my friends fumed on my behalf. I just smiled gracefully and clinked glasses with them. “Charlie, please contact Zack and ask when he’ll arrive. The press and media are all here. Even if he hates me, we need to keep up appearances,” I quietly instructed my personal assistant. Shortly after, the ballroom doors opened. Zack walked in under everyone’s gaze, wearing an immaculate suit and perfectly styled hair, carrying a large bouquet of roses. I was shocked. Had he finally come around? Was he willing to put aside our differences and get along? Just as I felt a spark of hope, the figure that appeared behind Zack made me freeze, my heart sinking. It was Lily Brooks, Zack’s mistress. Lily was a rising starlet, beloved by fans for her innocent “girl-next-door” look. I’d heard rumors about her and Zack, but I never imagined he’d have the audacity to bring his mistress to my birthday party! I clenched my fists, forcing myself to walk forward with a somewhat warm smile. “You’re late. And you brought a friend?” My tone was stiff, my gaze boring into him – part accusation, part warning. “Aria, drop the act. Let’s end this farce between us once and for all, on your birthday no less.” With that, Zack rudely brushed past me and strode onto the stage, pulling Lily along by the hand in front of all the media and guests. “As you all know, I married Aria two years ago. But that was just an arrangement between our families for the sake of business stability. There was never any love between us. Now, we’ve reached the point where we can’t stand the sight of each other. So I’m divorcing Aria to marry the love of my life, Lily!” My legs went weak and I dropped my champagne glass, but with so many eyes on me, I forced myself not to show an ounce of hurt. Instead, I maintained an icy expression. “Have you lost your mind?” My angry voice carried softly through the room as I walked to the front of the stage. “Does your father know about this? You’re not some reckless 20-year-old anymore! We may not be in love, but I’ve treated you with nothing but respect these past years. Do you really need to humiliate me like this?” “Respect?” Zack sneered, looking at me with disdain. “You’re not worth a single hair on Lily’s head. Your so-called ‘respect’ only disgusts me!” I was stunned. Though Zack could be childish, he had been relatively kind and attentive when we first married. How had we ended up in this vicious situation? I suppose it’s because he never loved me, so when true love appeared, he came to despise me. A wave of emotion washed over me. I felt heartbroken at my own failure. To think that I, the heiress of the Johnson family and future CEO, could be cast aside for a scheming homewrecker. “Aria, please don’t make a scene. It’s embarrassing for everyone,” Lily chimed in, blinking her innocent-looking eyes. She gently rubbed her stomach and gazed at me pitifully. “Besides, I’m already carrying Zack’s child. Surely you wouldn’t begrudge me that?” My mind went blank, as if struck by lightning. I steadied myself and took a deep breath before slowly responding: “You two will never be happy. Zack, one day you’ll pay for everything you’ve done today.” I looked up at him, my eyes red not from sadness, but from anger and resentment. Whispers broke out all around: “Aria is so accomplished, yet she still got dumped. I bet she was too arrogant and he couldn’t stand her.” “Who is this woman? Is she the mistress? Seems like Zack has hated Aria for a while.” “This is juicy! It’ll be the talk of the town tomorrow.” “Kicking his wife to the curb to marry his mistress? Zack is such a shameless scumbag!” The room buzzed with gossip – some mocking, some sympathetic, but most just enjoying the drama. I clenched my fists so tightly my nails nearly broke the skin. “Everyone, I apologize for this spectacle. But since Mr. Sherman has found new love, I’ll graciously step aside. After all, I’d hate to see the cliché of a wife fighting the mistress play out.” With that, I signed the divorce papers and threw them at Zack. “Happy now?” In just a few sentences, I had made it clear to everyone present that Zack was cheating and Lily was the homewrecker. “How dare you spread lies!” Zack raged, raising his hand to slap me. “Stop right there!” The expected pain never came. Instead, a firm, authoritative voice rang out. The ballroom doors opened again. The newcomer wore an expensive suit that accentuated his tall, lean build. He resembled Zack somewhat, with chiseled features and cold eyes, but his aura was completely different – more mature and powerful, not childish like Zack. “Cousin!” Zack exclaimed in surprise, his raised hand slowly lowering. He hurried off the stage to greet the man. “Cousin, you didn’t tell Dad you were coming? I thought you never attended events like this. What brings you here?” Following Zack’s gaze, I noticed the newcomer was flanked by several bodyguards in dark sunglasses. Curiously, they were carrying flowers, jewelry boxes, and luxury shopping bags. “I heard it was Miss Johnson’s birthday, so I came to offer my congratulations. I didn’t expect to witness such an interesting scene,” the man Zack called “cousin” said, narrowing his eyes as he scrutinized Zack. His commanding presence left everyone speechless as the cousins faced off, with Zack eventually backing down. I recognized him from the few times my father had mentioned him. Ryan Sherman was the son of Zack’s father’s older brother. Known for his intelligence and steady demeanor, he had successfully managed the company from a young age, becoming a role model for the Sherman children. Ryan scanned the room, his eyes lighting up briefly when they landed on something, before darkening again. Just as I tried to follow his gaze, he walked up to me in front of everyone. He took my hand and brought it to his lips, smiling warmly. “I came here today to announce that I want to marry Aria. I love her.” What?! Everyone, including myself, was shocked. We were all baffled by this turn of events. I barely knew Ryan – I’d only heard his name mentioned by others. Yet here he was, proposing to me right after Zack divorced me. It was absurd! “Mr. Sherman, I think there must be some misunderstanding between us,” I said. “There’s no misunderstanding. You may not know me, but I’ve known you for a long time. Your talent, your ambition, your beauty and grace – everything about you attracts me. To be precise, I’ve wanted to marry you for a while, but you were already engaged to my cousin at the time.” His heartfelt confession touched me. Growing up, my family had always been extremely strict with me. No one had ever affirmed me like this before. It piqued my interest in the man before me. “Mr. Sherman, I appreciate your affection, but isn’t marriage a bit rushed? We…” I started to refuse, but caught sight of Zack’s furious expression from the corner of my eye. Feeling a surge of satisfaction, I changed course mid-sentence. “We may not have met before, but I can tell you’re a true gentleman with integrity. When should we get engaged?” My words caused an uproar. Even the dimmest person could tell I was criticizing Zack for lacking the qualities his cousin possessed. “Cousin! I object! Did you come here just to oppose me? I just divorced Aria – she’s damaged goods now! Uncle won’t approve of this!” Zack protested. “Does it concern you?” Ryan coldly glanced at Zack, dismissing his objections. “You’re really going to humiliate me for a woman I just discarded? Do you want rumors spreading about us feuding?” Zack glared at Ryan in disbelief, his face twisted with displeasure. “Weren’t your actions today humiliating enough for her?” Ryan’s words were icy, but they warmed my heart. He furrowed his brow as he faced off against Zack, and his protective stance made my long-dormant heart flutter. “I’m marrying Aria because she’s the love of my life. I’d do anything for her!” Ryan declared firmly, gripping my hand tighter. My heart bloomed like the first flower of spring, a mix of nerves, excitement and anticipation washing over me. “Ryan Sherman! You’ll regret this. I’ll make you pay for humiliating me today!” Zack seethed, trembling with rage. But he didn’t dare say more, and could only swallow his anger as he stormed out with Lily in tow. As the stars climbed into the night sky, this dramatic scene came to an end. The rest of the birthday celebrations were awkward, with everyone lost in their own thoughts as they halfheartedly toasted to me. “Thank you for today,” I said earnestly to Ryan as we walked down the street after the party. “I meant what I said. I’ll give you three days to consider. I promise I’ll treat you better than he ever did. Please trust me and give me a chance,” Ryan said. Though he appeared cold on the outside, the tenderness in his eyes as he gazed at me intently made it hard to refuse. In fact, I found myself looking forward to being with him. “I understand. My driver’s here, so you should head home too,” I nodded, unable to hide my smile as I watched Ryan leave before getting into my car.

When I got home, my parents had already heard about the day’s events. My father looked stern, and there was tension in the air. “The Shermans have already apologized to us. Do what you think is best – we can’t control you anymore,” my father said gruffly. It seemed he had just finished venting his anger, and his attempt at concern came out more like a reprimand. “Aria, do you really want to marry Ryan Sherman? I’ve heard he’s quite ruthless in business. I don’t want to see you suffer,” my mother fretted. I laughed bitterly to myself. Now they didn’t want me to suffer? Then why did they make me marry Zack in the first place? Ryan’s face flashed through my mind again – his concern and protection for me was unforgettable. I made a firm decision. Pushing down my thoughts, I gave my mother a bright smile. “I want to marry him.” My parents respected my decision. The next day, they discussed wedding arrangements with the Sherman family again. This wedding was different from my previous arranged marriage. It was grand and lavish. Ryan’s engagement gifts were so numerous that it took our staff seven or eight trips to bring them all in, showing how much he valued me. I wore the wedding dress he had carefully chosen, put on the sparkling diamond ring, and exchanged vows of love with him on a romantic island beach. “I’ll only be good to you and love you for the rest of my life,” he promised. “Me too,” I replied. Many media outlets captured this blissful moment, widely promoting it online. Countless people envied our fairytale wedding and were moved by our happiness. I had to admit, marrying Ryan was indeed a great choice. After the wedding, I thought he’d be the type to work late at the office every day for the company. But to my surprise, he made time to go on dates with me, making up for the fact that we didn’t fall in love from the beginning. When he came home from work, he always brought me a bouquet of roses, carefully tending to them in our villa’s greenhouse. Any food I mentioned wanting would be delivered the next day. Items I desired would appear in my room when I woke up. Contrary to rumors about his coldness, he was actually quite affectionate, showing me that marriage could be warm and loving. My love for Ryan grew day by day, reaching the same intensity as his love for me. I was immersed in happiness, unable to extricate myself. From daily trivialities to major decisions we made together, he always respected me and put me first. I respected him equally and saw him as the center of my world. To me, Ryan was like a beam of light, illuminating my once dark and confused life. “Well, well, if it isn’t my ex-wife? How’d you manage to snag my cousin? Look at you now, all decked out in jewels and finery,” a unwelcome visitor suddenly appeared before me as I was enjoying afternoon tea in the villa, nearly making me sick up yesterday’s meal. “When I was married to you, I thought marriage was a tomb. But now I feel like it’s a honeypot. I guess it’s true that birds of a feather flock together. Once I left behind a low-class person like you, even the most ordinary life became blissful,” I shot back coldly, not pulling any punches. “I’ll tear that smart mouth of yours one day! Who do you think you are, acting all high and mighty? You don’t know, do you? He’s so busy fawning over you that he doesn’t have time to handle company business anymore. The chairman is quite displeased with him. I bet his assets will be gone before long thanks to you. Let’s see how smug you are then!” Zack warned through gritted teeth, clearly riled up by my words. But I didn’t have time to refute him. Ryan had never mentioned company matters to me before. Whenever I asked, he always said everything was under control and told me not to worry. What a fool. “Why are you here? Just looking to get insulted?” I eyed Zack warily. Since my marriage to Ryan, the two cousins hadn’t interacted, and their relationship had deteriorated to the point of open hostility. His sudden appearance made me suspicious. “Miss me that much? Want to rekindle our old flame now that you’ve seen me?” Zack smirked mockingly, giving me a contemptuous look before handing some documents to my assistant. “I’m just delivering something. You think I want to be here? Seeing you two makes me sick.” “Now that you’ve delivered it, please leave. You’re not welcome here!” I coldly dismissed him, seeing his nasty attitude. Zack turned to go, but suddenly seemed to remember something. He looked me up and down with a sneer. “You’ve been married to my cousin for almost three years now, right? My son is already two. I don’t see any signs of a baby from you two. Don’t tell me it’s a sham marriage?” My eyelashes fluttered in surprise. It was true that Ryan and I hadn’t had children in our three years of marriage. Initially I had wanted a child, but Ryan wasn’t very enthusiastic about the idea, so the matter was dropped. “How is that any of your business? We’re very happy together. As long as you stop showing up to ruin things, we’ll be fine. By the way, I feel sorry for your son. Having parents like you two – I’m embarrassed for him,” I glared at Zack contemptuously, not hiding my disdain. “You-! I’m not going to waste my time arguing with you!” Zack stormed off, unable to get the better of me. After he left, I pondered his question. The Sherman family had been pressuring Ryan to have a child – an heir. But his attitude was ambivalent, even completely uninterested. Could it be that he didn’t want children? Or maybe he just didn’t like kids?

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My wife’s assistant kept our client waiting in the cold for four hours. I managed to smooth things over and gently reminded him at the meeting not to let it happen again. To my surprise, he turned the tables, tearfully accusing me: “Director, how can you twist the facts and take credit for my work? It was you who was too lazy to get up. I had to plead with the client, or the deal would have fallen through.” Knowing the truth, my wife not only didn’t support me but promoted him to Vice President and insisted I hand over the project to him. Everyone at work expected me to cause a scene and quit. Instead, I quietly signed the project transfer agreement. My wife thought I’d finally come around and promised with a smile, “Don’t worry, once this project succeeds and the company goes public, I’ll focus on our family and consider having a child.” What she didn’t realize was that the client was an old friend of mine who valued my skills, which is why he agreed to work with us despite past issues. Now, with all the company’s funds tied up in this project, her decision to change the lead has not only squandered the investment but also left her facing hefty penalties.

“Ethan, did you think handing over the project was the end of it? Not a chance!” “According to company policy, you’re going to lose your year-end bonus and pay a fine!” Logan, my wife’s assistant, wasn’t satisfied with shifting the blame; he needed to trample on me to regain his lost face. Everyone knew the truth but dared not take sides, their eyes on my wife, Emily Stone. Logan sneered at my refusal to admit fault, “What? You’re just a loser, and I can’t say that?” I glanced at Emily. We’ve been secretly married for ten years, and she’s always refused to make it public. This time, she gave Logan a chance to shine, but he overslept, leaving the client waiting in the cold for hours, which understandably upset them. This project was crucial for the company going public; it couldn’t be taken lightly. Emily proposed that if I could win back the project, she’d announce our marriage in a meeting. Overjoyed, I worked tirelessly to regain the client’s trust. I thought today would be the day Emily kept her promise. I even bought new clothes and saved for half a year to buy a gold ring for her. But I never expected Emily to break her word, allowing Logan to distort the truth and steal my credit and project. Logan slammed the table in anger when I looked at Emily, “What are you staring at? If Emily didn’t value your experience, you’d have been fired long ago!” Emily gave me an apologetic look and then firmly said, “Forget the fine, but your year-end bonus is gone. Ethan, be more careful next time and avoid such rookie mistakes.” She seemed to defend me, but in reality, she was pinning the blame on me. After all, she’s the boss. Without her consent, how could a newcomer like Logan dare to challenge me? As my colleagues laughed at my expense, I chuckled instead of getting angry and removed my ID badge on the spot: “No need for all that; I’m quitting.” Emily was displeased, “Don’t be ridiculous! If you resign, what about all your projects?” I shrugged calmly, “Mr. Logan is talented; he’ll do better than me.” Everyone’s expressions shifted. They knew the company’s success was largely due to my efforts. If I left, all my projects would collapse, and they wouldn’t get their commissions. Colleagues who had sided with Logan earlier tried to persuade me: “Director Ethan, Emily’s just joking. The company can’t do without you.” Logan, seeing the attention shift away, retorted angrily, “Ethan, do you want everyone to miss their targets? Don’t be so selfish!” Emily raised her eyebrows, intending to stop Logan, but he suddenly clutched his chest and squatted down: “Emily, Ethan made me so angry I’m having an attack. Call an ambulance!” Emily panicked, “Ethan, are you just going to stand there? Help!” I glanced at Logan, whose face was rosy, and he was winking provocatively. He was obviously faking it again. Emily didn’t notice and called for others to help Logan to the car. I turned to leave, but Emily called me in a hurry: “You made Logan sick; where do you think you’re going? Get in the car and help me take him to the hospital.” I didn’t want to go, but I didn’t want Logan to blackmail me later, so I got in. In the back seat, Logan lay in Emily’s arms, whining about the pain: “Emily, Ethan wants to kill me…” Emily was heartbroken and scolded me: “Don’t you know he has a heart condition? Can’t you talk things out calmly?” I was used to it. Because of Logan, I’ve argued with Emily, smashed things, but nothing changed her bias toward him. Even now, when Logan stole my credit and project, and publicly mocked me, when I just didn’t want to be exploited anymore and chose to resign, she thought I was making trouble. If it had been my old temper, I would have argued with her. But since Logan appeared a year ago, he’s taken Emily’s love, my project shares, and now even my reputation. I wonder if he’ll try to take my husband’s position someday. Living like this, I’m really tired. I nodded and said perfunctorily, “Sure, it won’t happen again.” Because there won’t be a next time. Emily looked at me in surprise, satisfied with my compromise, and explained unusually, “I know you’re not a bad person, just your mouth gets you in trouble.” “Logan has a heart condition, and I’m just worried about him getting upset, that’s why I go along with him.” “Besides, he’s your apprentice; don’t you want him to go far?” Yeah! Logan isn’t just my apprentice; I sent him to Emily myself. I supported him through college and paid his medical bills. When he couldn’t find a job after graduation, I got him the assistant job. But he didn’t want to be an assistant forever and begged me to teach him design. I squeezed out three hours daily to teach him by hand. I knew about his condition and asked Emily to take care of him. But I didn’t expect Emily to take such good care of him, to the point of overdoing it. That day, I went to discuss work with Emily and found them sharing an ice cream in the office. Seeing this scene, I was furious and rushed to question them. That was the first time Logan faked illness, and the first time Emily gave me the cold shoulder in public since we married. She rushed Logan to the hospital, attending to him closely. Watching my wife care for someone else so attentively, it felt terrible. In ten years of marriage, I’d never been cared for like that. Once, I had acute appendicitis and was in excruciating pain, begging her to take me to the hospital. She tossed me a bottle of painkillers coldly: “If you want to slack off, just say it. I hate people who fake illness!” I ended up calling a cab myself for surgery. Even after learning about my condition, she was dismissive: “Just appendicitis, everyone gets it. Don’t act like it’s a terminal illness, alright?” I thought she was just harsh but kind-hearted. But she never visited me in the hospital once. I used to think she was just a cold woman. But turning my head, I saw Emily, with her severe cleanliness, using her white cuffs to wipe Logan’s sweat. She urged the driver to hurry as if Logan was her husband. I smiled bitterly, letting go of my obsession. I should have realized earlier; her actions were a clear message. She truly loved Logan, deeply. And I was just a passerby in her life. I sent a message to my senior, telling him I was out. He replied with a shocked emoji: “Ethan, come work with me.” I’d refused him countless times before, but this time, I replied, “Okay.” For Emily, I gave up my future. Now, it’s not too late to turn back and fight for myself. We said nothing on the way to the hospital, where Logan was doing fine. Hearing that, I turned to leave. Emily sighed in relief: “Ethan, wait, I’ll go home with you.” As she reached for my hand, Logan started feigning illness again, clutching his chest in pain. Emily sighed and transferred me $500 as compensation: “You go home first. After the project succeeds, I’ll give you the rest of your share.” “When the company goes public, I’ll return to the family. I won’t go back on my word.” I mumbled an “Okay,” turned to leave, and didn’t accept the money. I don’t plan to stay with her any longer. My senior is preparing the documents, ready to sue her. I turned and left without taking the money she offered. I’m not planning to stay with her anymore. My senior is gathering documents, preparing to sue her. Not only will the contract be terminated, but she’ll also face a substantial compensation. 2 On the way back, I received taunting messages and videos from Logan. “Leo, what does it matter if you’re her husband? She even caught my vomit with her bare hands. Have you ever been treated like that?” I really haven’t. When I was sick, she didn’t even bother to look after me, let alone get me a glass of water. “Leo, is $500 enough for you? If not, I can send you more. My sister felt sorry for me being so ill and gave me $50,000.” I looked at the transfer records he sent. Emily really did feel sorry for him, being frugal with her apologies to me but giving him over ten million in pocket money over time. I ignored his taunts and silently kept the evidence. Back home, I cooked some noodles, ate, and went to sleep. Late at night, Emily suddenly returned and shook me awake: “Don’t sleep. Logan’s sick. I’ve told him to move in temporarily so I can take care of him.” “Hurry and clean up the guest room, change the sheets and comforter.” Woken up, feeling irritable, I turned over and went back to sleep: “Do it yourself, I’m busy.” Hearing this, Logan frowned and barged in to criticize: “Emily initially planned to stay at my place. She came back for the sake of your dignity as her husband.” “I’ve already agreed to stay here, and Emily also pleaded with you not to overdo it.” Emily shook her head in disappointment: “Don’t you usually do it with enthusiasm? Why are you deliberately targeting Logan now?” “He even told me he wouldn’t mind that you made him sick. You really have less tolerance than your apprentice!” I let out a cold laugh, too lazy to argue: “Yeah, yeah, it’s all my fault. Go live at Logan’s place; you can take better care of him.” Emily’s scolding halted, and she glared at me with red eyes: “Leo! What husband pushes his wife to someone else’s home?” She hit me a few times in frustration and ran out crying. After she left, Logan slowly walked in and gave me the middle finger: “I didn’t expect you to resort to dirty tricks like me, Master, but you’ll never outplay me. Just wait and see.” I didn’t pay much attention, buried my head, and fell back asleep. The next day, I woke up feeling refreshed, and as soon as I entered the living room, I smelled something delicious. A lavish breakfast was laid out on the table. Emily, wearing an apron, seemed to have forgotten about last night, sat me down, and placed a poached egg in my bowl. “Come on, try this poached egg.” Weird, Emily never cooks. Did the sun rise in the west today? I was about to take a bite when she muttered: “Logan is picky. If it’s even slightly burnt, he won’t eat it. If it’s too soft, he won’t eat it either. Help me taste it…” I put down my chopsticks instantly. I was overthinking it. Why would she make breakfast for me? Today’s meal was all thanks to Logan. Living like this is really a disgrace. I turned to my room, pulled out the prepared divorce agreement, and handed it to her. Emily was busy with something and didn’t even glance at it: “There’s bone broth simmering on the stove. I’ll sign later.” I stopped her: “This is urgent. Sign it first, it won’t take long.” Emily sighed, quickly signed with a pen. Then she suddenly thought of something and casually asked: “Is this your new project? I want Logan to join your team.” “Don’t worry, he won’t take any money, just wants his name on it.” I put the document away. Emily really loves Logan deeply, never forgetting to get him benefits. But this time, she’s bound to be disappointed. “This isn’t a project; it’s a divorce agreement.”

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On the day Adeline gave birth to my husband’s child, my in-laws hired ten bodyguards to stand guard outside the delivery room to prevent any disruption from my side. But I never showed up, not even after the delivery was over. My mother-in-law held Adeline’s hand and reassured her, “Adeline, as long as we are here, Olivia won’t be able to harm you or the baby!” My husband was by Adeline’s side during the delivery, wiping her sweat tenderly. “Don’t worry. Dad has people at the hospital entrance. If Olivia tries anything, we’ll have her removed!” After not seeing me, he finally relaxed. He couldn’t understand why I would cause a fuss when he was just trying to fulfill Adeline’s last wish of becoming a mother. Watching the nurse cradle the newborn, he smiled contentedly, thinking that if I came to apologize the next day, he would forgive everything and even let me be the child’s mother. What he didn’t know was that I had just submitted a report to the United Nations. In a week, I would renounce my citizenship and become a doctor with Doctors Without Borders, never to see him again.

The day Liam helped Adeline out of the postpartum care center, I had just finished my shift at the hospital. As I approached the entrance, I heard laughter and joy from inside. “This baby is so beautiful, and his thick eyebrows look just like our Liam’s,” my mother-in-law cooed, playing with the baby in her arms. Meanwhile, Liam brought out a steaming bowl of pork rib soup from the kitchen. “Adeline, you’ve worked hard. I made this soup myself for you. You’re weak and need to regain your strength,” he said tenderly, sitting by the bed and feeding Adeline with a gentle smile, the picture of a happy family. My father-in-law shook a rattle to entertain the baby, grinning widely. “This kid is as charming as his mom. Thank goodness he doesn’t take after Olivia, who was always so serious. Having a doctor for a mom would have been worrisome.” My grip on the door handle tightened. I remembered when I first met my father-in-law, he proudly patted my shoulder, saying having a daughter-in-law who was a doctor made him proud. But now, he claims doctors don’t belong in a family. I had only been abroad for a year for further study, yet there was no longer a place for me in this home. I lowered my head, a bitter smile on my lips. I married Liam three years ago, and we once had a child. But due to an accident, I lost the child and suffered uterine damage, making me infertile for life. Upon hearing this news, I was devastated. Liam held me and comforted me, promising he would have children only with me for the rest of his life. For me, he even chose not to have children. Yet now, he has broken his promise to fulfill Adeline’s last wish, shattering his own principles. I still remember the day I went abroad for further study. He cried like a child, holding me tightly, unwilling to let go. For this whole year, we spoke on the phone daily, sharing our lives. Even my colleagues teased us for being like newlyweds despite three years of marriage. But just a month ago, I finally managed to get a vacation to come home. Even after a nine-hour flight, I didn’t complain about being tired. I rushed home, only to see Liam and Adeline holding hands, taking a walk in the neighborhood, and Adeline was obviously pregnant. My train of thought was interrupted by Adeline’s voice. “Olivia, when did you get back? Why are you standing at the door and not coming in?” Hearing her voice, everyone inside turned toward the entryway. When my mother-in-law saw the resignation letter in my hand, her brow furrowed deeply. “Why did I agree to let Liam marry such a jinx? Resigning from your job, are you planning to live off Liam?” My father-in-law chimed in, “You can’t even hold onto a secure job. What can you do? If I had known you were useless, I wouldn’t have let you in the door!” “Adeline is precious now. She and the baby need money everywhere. You’re not helping Liam but causing trouble. Is this how you act as a wife?” I found it laughable. “And what about Liam? He got someone else pregnant while I was furthering my studies. Is that how a husband should act?” “Enough, Olivia. I’m doing this for your own good,” Liam snapped, his eyes icy. “You can’t have children, so I let Adeline have a baby for you, letting you experience motherhood. Why can’t you understand my good intentions?” “Besides, it’s a win-win situation. It fulfills Adeline’s wish and lets you be a mother without the pain. I don’t get why you’re angry!” “Two years ago, if it weren’t for Adeline saving me from a car accident, I would have died. She’s an orphan now and has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. In a while, no one will remember her.” “As a woman, shouldn’t you sympathize with her? Why are you always against her? Or do you think I’m just a despicable man?” Adeline gently tugged on Liam’s hand, looking at me with a face full of sympathy. “Olivia, please say less. I know it’s all my fault. I promise not to appear in your life from now on. But don’t let me affect your marriage, okay?” Looking at the four of them united against me, I found it hilarious. So, this is what a real family looks like. Suddenly, Liam spoke up, “Olivia, my patience has limits. If you target Adeline again, don’t blame me for not being polite!” “If you want to keep living with me, behave yourself. At next week’s full moon celebration, I can publicly acknowledge you as the child’s mother in front of family and friends.” Next week? I glanced at the sleeping baby in the stroller. Next week, I’m leaving for abroad. But before I go, I don’t mind giving them an unforgettable surprise.

I nodded calmly. “Alright.” With that, I ignored their reactions and went back to the bedroom to pack my things. Since I’ve decided to leave completely, I don’t want to leave any trace here. In the living room, the laughter seeped through the door. My hands paused slightly as I folded clothes. “Adeline, let’s name the baby Liam Adeline, so even if he calls someone else mom in the future, he won’t forget you as his biological mother.” Even without seeing it, I could imagine Liam saying this with a face full of affection. My heart was already riddled with wounds from him. I suddenly remembered last month when I rushed home, carrying souvenirs I had bought for Liam abroad. But at the doorstep, I saw Liam and Adeline returning from a walk, hand in hand. Unlike Liam’s look of horror, Adeline looked at me with confusion, asking if I had the wrong house. “Did you get the wrong door? This is my home.” I said nothing, staring at Adeline’s pregnant belly. Ten months away, and my husband moved his beloved into our home, and she’s pregnant. What happened is obvious. Liam hurriedly stood between us, introducing me to Adeline. “This is my wife, Olivia.” I thought Adeline would back down hearing this, but she acted the perfect hostess, even inviting me inside. As we passed each other, she whispered so only we could hear, “I heard you’ve been married to Liam for three years? A stand-in will always be a stand-in, unlike me, the real deal!” “Once I came back, didn’t you obediently give up your place?” Anger surged, and I couldn’t hold back. I swung my hand, slapping her face, all my longing for Liam over the ten months turning into fury. Until neighbors heard the commotion and called the police. We were both taken to the station, but since it involved family matters, they couldn’t intervene much and let us go home. Back home, my in-laws, who had rushed over, berated me relentlessly—accusing me of making such a scene upon my return and embarrassing us in front of the neighbors. They said I’d wasted all those years of education by hitting someone and if anything happened, they wouldn’t forgive me. They had always known about Liam and Adeline, even supporting them wholeheartedly. In just a year, Adeline had become their ideal daughter-in-law. I was the only one left in the dark. My mouth tasted bitter. Liam, with teary eyes, approached to grab my hand, trying to persuade me. “Olivia, I never meant to betray you. But Adeline’s health is poor. The doctors said she has at most six months to live, and her only wish is to be a mother, to have a child of her own.” “She’s my savior. I couldn’t bear to let her die with regrets…” “I wanted to discuss it with you, but you were abroad. I was afraid it would disrupt your studies. I thought I’d tell you once you returned.” “If you’re willing, we could raise this child together, okay?”

Such a big matter, yet he spoke about it so casually. I packed the last piece of clothing into my suitcase. Just then, my mother-in-law entered, seeing the suitcase by my feet with a look of ‘finally, you know your place.’ “After all, she saved my life. I can’t let her leave this world full of regrets…” “I wanted to discuss this with you earlier, but since you were overseas, I didn’t want to interrupt your studies. I thought it best to wait until you came back.” “If you’re open to it, how about we raise this child together?” Such a significant matter, yet he spoke of it so nonchalantly. I tucked the last piece of clothing into my suitcase just as my mother-in-law walked in. Her expression said, “Finally, you’ve come to your senses.” “Since you weren’t here, I let Adeline use your room. Now, the study has been converted into a nursery, so you’ll need to sleep in the living room tonight. If you don’t like that, feel free to check into a hotel.” I was genuinely exhausted and didn’t have the energy to find a hotel, so I nodded, ready to make do on the sofa for the night. But in the dead of night, the sound of a crying baby came from the bedroom. I turned over, about to put in earplugs, when I heard Adeline’s frustrated voice. “Liam, can you do something about the baby? He’s been crying non-stop.” Then I heard Liam chuckle softly. “Aren’t you my darling? Just take care of yourself. Let the kid cry a bit more; it’s good for his lungs.” I pulled the blanket over my head, trying hard to ignore their laughter. But when I closed my eyes, I still saw Liam’s face from when he first confessed his love to me. Back then, he was lively and full of energy, with his whole world revolving around me. But that version of him no longer belonged to me. I drifted into a restless sleep, and by dawn, I was out the door with my suitcase. At City Hall, I canceled my household registration and processed my papers to go abroad. With all the necessary documentation, everything was handled quickly, and the staff didn’t ask many questions. Just as I was leaving, one of the staff handed me a piece of fruit candy. “May all your wishes come true.” I gave her a grateful smile and found a nearby hotel. After setting down my luggage, I went out to find something to eat and unexpectedly ran into Liam and Adeline with their family. Adeline, wearing a Patek Philippe bracelet, looked smug, showing no sign of someone gravely ill. “Olivia, I thought I recognized you from afar. Liam insisted you couldn’t possibly be here.” Her gaze fell on the job flyer in my hand, and she smiled knowingly. “So you’re job hunting? But why would you settle for a waitress position?” “Even if you’re upset with Liam, there’s no need to make things hard on yourself.” I stayed silent. A young girl had handed me the flyer on the street, and I took it because I felt sorry for her working in the cold weather. Seeing my silence, Adeline’s eyes gleamed with satisfaction, and her smile widened. “If you’d told me you were looking for a job, maybe I could’ve helped.” “We’re family. If you’re doing well, Liam and the child will have support, and I can feel at ease.” At that moment, my silence was almost an admission. Liam’s previously confused expression turned harsh. He frowned deeply, his lips forming a hard line, and looked at me with disdain. “What’s there to recommend? She insisted on leaving such a good job as a doctor. Now, even if she starves on the street, she doesn’t deserve sympathy.” “Olivia, I can’t believe you’d go to such lengths to force me to give up the child. You’ve really disappointed me!” Staring at his familiar face, I felt like he was a stranger. I remembered when we were first married, how internal competition at the hospital made me want to resign and switch careers. Liam held me in his arms and gently comforted me: “We’re a team. No matter what you decide, I support you.” “Resigning is no big deal, honey. I’ll always be here for you.” But now, he allowed another woman to humiliate me. He forgot what he once told me and the deep feelings we shared. Even my in-laws shook their heads in disdain. “Olivia, you’re like a hen that can’t lay eggs and always out of the house. How can you compare to Adeline?” “It’s only natural for Liam to look for someone else. Blame yourself for not being attractive.” Their words grew more exaggerated, and passersby began to glance our way. My hands clenched into fists at my sides, nails digging into my skin. Just as I was about to speak, Adeline stepped forward. “We’re about to take a family photo, Olivia. Why don’t you join us? I’ll count on you to look after Liam and the baby in the future.” I glanced at her, saying nothing. Liam immediately objected, shielding Adeline in his arms and sneering at me. “Adeline, you’re too kind, but she might not appreciate it.” “Olivia, who are you giving that face to? Go or don’t go. Your presence would just lower our family’s standards.” With that, he took Adeline and headed toward the photo studio. “We’ll leave now. Don’t let us stop you from looking for a job, Olivia~” Before leaving, Adeline gave me a meaningful look. Watching them walk away, I felt no waves in my heart. To the outside world, they seemed like such a harmonious family. If that’s what Liam wants, then why not let them have it? 4. Three days before leaving, I received a message from the director. He said the expert I had asked him to contact was in the country for a forum and could help check on my mother-in-law’s asthma. She had been dealing with asthma for years. Although it was under control, it still sometimes flared up, and she’d been to the hospital in emergencies before. So, while studying abroad, I asked colleagues to collect related cases for me. No matter what, the years of relationship still meant something. Once I finished this, we’d be even. But when I told her I wanted to take her to the hospital, her face changed instantly. “Why go to the hospital for no reason? Are you cursing me just because I criticized you?” “Olivia, you’re so malicious. The last time I had a check-up, the doctor said I was healthy. What’s there to check?” “There’s a top expert on asthma in the country today. You could see him, just as a follow-up…” Before I could finish, she threw a water cup at me. “Sounds great, but could a jobless person like you really schedule with a top expert? All you do is brag! Remember when Adeline stayed up late to book my appointment? Where were you then?” She compared me to Adeline at every turn, her attitude clear. No matter what I did, it was wrong. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t compare to Adeline. With this thought in mind, I just smiled bitterly. “Fine, if you don’t want to go, we won’t.” Maybe I’m just meddling where I shouldn’t. Soon, it was time for the baby’s Full Moon Celebration. I arrived late, seeing the banquet hall packed with relatives whose names I didn’t know. For a moment, I felt dazed. The event was even grander than my wedding to Liam. And right by the entrance, there was a family photo of the five of them. As for me, from start to finish, I was just a joke. Relatives and friends whispered when they saw me, and I could guess the gist. Soon, Aunt Fiona grabbed my arm, making small talk. “Olivia, when did you return? Liam never mentioned it. And when did you have a baby?” “I heard you’re being promoted to Chief Medical Officer at the General Hospital after your studies abroad. Your future’s so bright!” I didn’t say anything, just nodded politely. But I could see the disdain in their eyes. After all, I wasn’t in the family photo. And it wasn’t me standing by Liam at the banquet. Someone pointed at the woman feeding Liam dessert and asked. “Olivia, who is that?” I smiled faintly. “Liam’s new wife.” The gossiping aunts nearby widened their eyes, then huddled together, whispering again. Since Liam’s family didn’t care, why should I cover for them? Just then, Liam took the stage and grabbed the microphone. “I’m so glad everyone could come to my son’s Full Moon Celebration.” “Before this, I never considered becoming a father or believed I could play the role well.” “But when I heard the baby’s cries, I realized the responsibility and duties of fatherhood.” The aunt next to me shouted, “Let the baby’s mother come up and say a few words! Where’s the mother?” The banquet hall’s atmosphere froze for a moment. Everyone’s eyes darted between Adeline and me. The answer was obvious, but the aunt’s question seemed to urge Liam to admit it himself. “I never really considered becoming a father before now and certainly didn’t think I could handle the responsibility.” “But when I heard the baby’s cries, the weight of fatherhood hit me.” Aunt Hazel loudly interjected, “Let the child’s mother come up and speak! Where is she?” The room fell silent. Eyes darted between me and Olivia. The truth was all but spoken, but Aunt Hazel seemed intent on hearing Liam Bennett admit it himself. Locking eyes with Liam, I slowly made my way to the stage. He was dumbfounded as I took the microphone from him. “What are you doing? Don’t you dare say anything reckless,” he hissed, panic flickering in his eyes as he grabbed my sleeve, but I brushed him off without looking back. A clear conscience fears no accusation. I began speaking calmly, “First, thank you all for traveling here for this celebration.” “Many of you witnessed Liam Bennett and me getting married, and have supported us with your blessings. You might have seen our family photo at the entrance earlier.” Liam’s face paled at this. He charged toward me, trying to snatch the microphone. I quickly sidestepped, holding the microphone firmly as I continued: “Honestly, I was shocked too, but more so when I returned from a year abroad to find Liam Bennett with another woman. They even had a child.” “They tried to convince me it was for my own good to accept the child as mine. But I refuse to bear that burden or swallow that lie.” “Liam Bennett, I want a divorce.”

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When I abandoned my strategy and disclosed the existence of the system, my ex-girlfriend—whom I couldn’t let go of—surprisingly agreed to marry me and promised to give me a child. I thought my sincerity had moved her, so I enthusiastically prepared for the wedding. But instead, she lured me onto an operating table. “You are a strategist capable of indefinite revival, but he is in the final stages of heart failure and is dying.” “Don’t worry, once his surgery is successful and he’s recovered, I’ll fully return to the family and help you complete your mission.” What she didn’t realize was that the moment she took my heart, my strategy had already failed, and my memory was wiped clean. A month later, when she smiled and called me “husband,” asking if I had thought of a name for the baby, I was bewildered. “We don’t even know each other, where is this child coming from?” “Nora, this isn’t the road to the wedding venue, is it?” I sat in the passenger seat, observing the unfamiliar scenery outside, calmly speaking. My wife, Nora Johnson, visibly flinched and then held my hand tightly, smiling as she explained: “Declan, are you getting cold feet about the wedding?” “We’ve planned this wedding for so long. Where else would we be going?” Listening to Nora’s explanation, I remained silent, not responding. Even though she hid it well, she overlooked one detail. Since I arrived in this world to complete my mission, we have been together for a full seven years. I know her too well. Whenever she lies, she instinctively bites her lip. And the moment I asked, she immediately locked the car doors. It felt like she was afraid I might jump out of the car and escape. Thinking about this, I wasn’t surprised, but rather felt a sense of relief. I silently took out a cigarette from my pocket. With a click, the lighter sparked a flame. I took a deep drag, the nicotine filling my lungs with a bitterness that made me especially clear-headed. “Nora, I’ve been by your side for seven years; there’s no need to deceive me.” I exhaled a puff of smoke, my tone calm but tinged with self-mockery. “It’s unnecessary and pointless.” “You’re actually taking me to the hospital to help Theo Brooks with a heart transplant, aren’t you?” Hearing Theo Brooks’ name, Nora suddenly slammed on the brakes, nearly causing a rear-end collision. But I wasn’t surprised by Nora’s reaction. After all, he was once her first love, just a step away from walking down the aisle with her. After a while, her face regained composure, and she forced a smile that was more of a grimace. “Declan, my relationship with Theo Brooks is long over.” “Now I just want to be with you, Declan, believe me.” Unfortunately, even though her words sounded nice, her eyes flickered incessantly, never daring to meet mine. I took a deep breath and interrupted: “On such an important day, why aren’t you wearing a wedding dress and insisted on driving yourself?” “We clearly hired a driver and a fleet, didn’t we?” Upon hearing this, the car interior fell silent, leaving only the crackling sound of burning tobacco. After a while, she lowered her head and admitted: “You are a traveler; you can revive until the strategy task is completed. But he is in end-stage heart failure and can’t hold on without surgery.” “He is so kind and so young; he shouldn’t end his life so hastily.” Her voice carried a hint of a sob, as if pleading or explaining. I couldn’t help but let out a bitter laugh: “So, this is why you tricked me into marriage, so you could take my heart for his surgery?” “Do you know this is illegal…” Before I could finish, Nora kissed me to silence me, her tears falling onto my face. The sweet kisses of the past now tasted only bitter. “Don’t say anymore… I really can’t watch him die.” “Since we’ve already gotten the marriage certificate, help me one last time, okay?” “Once his surgery is successful and he recovers, I’ll fully return to the family and help you complete your strategy task.” She clutched my hand, seemingly using all her strength to say these words. I looked at her almost pleading request and couldn’t help but smile bitterly. I’ve strategized with Nora for seven years and have never seen her bow to anyone. Whether facing threats from superiors or false accusations from peers, she always maintained her pride and principles. But now, as long as Theo Brooks could survive, she didn’t care about anything else. Sure enough. Before I could refuse, I felt dizzy and my body gradually lost strength. But Nora seemed to have anticipated this, calmly saying: “Declan, don’t struggle. I added a handful of sleeping pills to breakfast today.” “To save him, I have no choice.” With that, Nora stepped on the gas pedal to the floor, heading in the opposite direction of the wedding. … When I woke up again, the car was parked outside an abandoned private hospital. After all, a living heart transplant doesn’t comply with medical regulations. Soon, a group of people dressed in surgical gowns and masks had me fully restrained. “Miss Johnson, you’ve finally brought the heart source. If you delay any longer, Mr. Brooks won’t make it.” Upon hearing this, Nora’s face turned white, and she rushed towards Theo Brooks’ hospital room, leaving me, the mobile heart, behind. Soon, Nora saw Theo Brooks lying on the hospital bed, pale and barely breathing. “Theo!” “How did you end up like this?” She exclaimed, rushing forward to hold his hand, her heart seemingly shattering. “It’s okay now, everything’s okay now. Soon you’ll have a new heart.” Her voice trembled, carrying a sob. Theo Brooks weakly smiled, gripping her hand in return, his eyes full of relief at being saved. “I knew you’d come, Nora.” And I, bound to the side, watched this touching scene unfold and couldn’t help but smile self-deprecatingly. In her eyes, Theo Brooks was her everything, so what was I? A partner to make ends meet? Or a mobile blood pack to save a life? But this question may never have an answer. From afar, Nora noticed my gaze. She suddenly turned to look at me, slowly approaching as if wanting to embrace me. But I moved aside, avoiding her touch, my expression cold. “Go on, aren’t you going to save your precious Theo? Hurry up.” Nora froze, then spoke with a trembling voice: “Declan, I’m sorry.” “But rest assured, once Theo’s surgery is successful, I’ll immediately return to the family and help you complete the strategy task.” I said nothing to her promise. Because she didn’t know, when my life became a tool to save Theo Brooks, my strategy had already utterly failed. The next moment, as the anesthetic began to take effect, my consciousness gradually blurred. Just when I thought the system would erase me for failing the strategy, it suddenly spoke: “Host strategy task failed! Erasing… host’s entire memory of Nora Johnson.”

Hearing the system’s punishment, I was stunned. I didn’t expect the system to only plan on erasing my memories of Nora Johnson. And not my life. This wasn’t so much a punishment; for me now, it was more like a release. The next moment, the system pulled my soul from my body, and the past seven years with Nora Johnson unfolded before my eyes like scenes from a movie. Seven years ago, I had just arrived in this world. With language barriers and struggles everywhere, I began to decay, buying drinks at night and nearly freezing to death in the icy wilderness. It was Nora Johnson who saved me, taking me back to her rented apartment. Even though I hadn’t showered for a month, reeking of a sour stench, Nora was unfazed. She even brought over two cases of beer, drinking with me until we passed out. That night, she shared a lot. She said she once wanted to die too. But thinking of a promise with someone, she gritted her teeth and held on. That night, she laughed so openly and purely. Like a beam of light, illuminating my shattered heart. From that day on, I put away all my thoughts, deciding to live for Nora Johnson. From now on, her wish was my wish. Her dream was my dream. Perhaps because of similar experiences, we quickly got together. Back then, we were still poor, and suppliers were delaying payments, leaving the company with no funds. At the end of the year, our feast was merely an upgrade from packet noodles to cup noodles. Even so, we still found joy in it. Nora Johnson and I squatted in the rented apartment, eating cup noodles. I boasted about my talents and abilities, saying once the company went public, I’d throw the grandest, most enviable wedding for her. That day, she laughed so happily. Like a crescent moon, lighting up my world. I thought we’d keep going like this. But then Theo Brooks returned to the country, shattering my illusions. As the year came to a close, our feast was simply upgrading from bagged instant noodles to cup noodles. Yet, we were content with this. Nora and I sat in our little rented apartment, eating instant noodles. I ambitiously talked up my talents and abilities, telling her that when the company went public, we’d have the grandest wedding ever, one that would make everyone green with envy. That day, she laughed joyfully. Her smile was like a sliver of moonlight that brightened my whole world. I believed we would continue on like this forever. But everything fell apart the day Declan Carter returned to the country. She, who placed her career above all else, unceremoniously ditched a supplier worth thirty million and drove straight to the airport without a second thought. She returned to the office a week later, acting as if nothing had happened. But after that, her interactions with Declan Carter became more frequent. At first, I wasn’t worried. I thought that our years together wouldn’t be easily shaken by a long-lost first love. But seeing her start to giggle at her phone left me panicking. That was the unmistakable sign of being in love, something I knew all too well. Later, I discovered that the “promise” she’d held onto all this time was with Declan Carter. They had agreed that no matter what happened, she’d wait for him to return and marry her. And she had waited, up until now. But thankfully, it’s all finally coming to an end. I released her, and in doing so, I freed myself. Just as my soul was about to press the button to erase these memories, the tightly shut doors of the operating room suddenly burst open. In came Nora, leaving me stunned. What was she doing here? She rushed in to interrupt the surgery, and the doctor quickly blocked her. “Miss , the surgery is in progress, please leave!” But she ignored him, her eyes anxiously fixed on my body, already opened up on the operating table. Seeing this, a flicker of hope sparked within my soul. Could it be… Did she regret it? Does Nora still care about me? But the next moment, she grabbed the doctor’s arm and urgently said: “Doctor, can you take his liver and kidneys too, to give to Declan?” 3. She confirmed that I was unconscious, sighed in relief, and continued: “Declan just told me his liver and kidneys have been damaged by years of medication. A new transplant would help him recover faster.” Listening to Nora’s casual words about taking my organs, it felt like my heart was being crushed in a juicer. Is this what she meant by loving me? She even planned for Declan’s post-surgery recovery, not wanting him to endure any discomfort. And what about me? The wedding and kids could wait and be sacrificed! A bitter smile spread from the corner of my mouth. I closed my eyes, took a deep breath, and silently selected the option to erase my memories. Keeping such feelings would only bring more pain. I’d rather remember nothing. From now on, I’ll live for myself! … I don’t know how much time passed. The strong smell of disinfectant forced my eyes open. A young nurse came over and adjusted my IV bottle. “You’re awake? How are you feeling?” “Alright, where am I?” The nurse frowned. “You’re in a hospital. You’ve been in a coma for a week.” A week? I tried to recall, but my memory was blank. Seeing my confusion, the nurse sighed, looking unsurprised: “All the other patients have family taking care of them, but you’ve had no one visiting for a week. Your bedside was as quiet as a morgue.” “Now that you’re awake, contact someone you know and get ready to pay the bills later.” I opened my phone, ready to contact my parents. A series of unread messages popped up, all from a man named “Declan Carter.” “Luke, the surgery was a success! Thanks to your organs, I survived! Love you, muah!” Attached was a photo of Nora nestled in his arms. “Nora made me soup today, so happy! Luke, take care of yourself too!” In the picture, Nora was feeding him steaming chicken soup. “Nora said she wants to take me out in the sun today, I’m so excited! Luke, when will you be discharged? Let’s go together!” Day after day, Declan Carter sent messages flaunting his relationship with Nora, his words filled with pride and provocation. I just frowned. Who’s this idiot? Why is he tagging me all the time? The woman in the photo looks nice, but is that worth boasting about? Nutcase! I muttered and blocked him without hesitation. But shortly after, the door to my hospital room swung open. It was Declan Carter and Nora. Declan rushed over, hugging me excitedly. “Luke, you’re finally awake! So you were in the room diagonally across? Why didn’t you say something earlier? I would’ve been here right away!” “After all, if not for you, I would’ve been dead!” His tone was exaggerated, his expression overly dramatic, calling me his lifesaver, though his eyes were full of disdain. I was speechless. Can’t this guy talk properly? Why act like a show-off? He’s been tagging and mocking me, and now he’s pretending to be a good guy? I coldly pushed him away. “Get lost, do I know you? You’re disgusting.” Declan was momentarily stunned, then a hint of satisfaction flashed in his eyes as he collapsed theatrically to the floor. “Oh no! Luke, I knew you’d be angry with me!” “Maybe I should just die!” He clutched his chest, acting as if he couldn’t breathe. Nora quickly supported him, comforting him: “Declan, don’t get worked up, the doctor said you’re still weak after surgery.” Then she turned to me, holding my hand, and earnestly advised: “Luke, I know you’re upset, but that’s all in the past.” “You’re fine now, isn’t that enough?” “Why push Declan? He’s just had surgery and is still weak.” I looked at this beautiful stranger in front of me, not feeling the slightest bit moved, only a vague sense of disgust. Who is this woman, doesn’t she get it? He fell on his own, how can she blame me? And how is he weak? He’s been up late every night tagging and provoking me. He seems perfectly fine! Before I could think further, Nora sighed and, holding my arm, earnestly said: “Alright, dear, no matter what, it’s all in the past.” “I know you probably won’t forgive me easily.” “So…” She paused, seemingly realizing something, and gently explained: “I came today to tell you a surprise.” With that, Nora took out a test report from her bag and looked at me lovingly. “Dear, I found out I’m pregnant. Weren’t you always asking for a child?” “You finally got your wish!” “Have you thought about a name?” “Right, before it shows, let’s quickly reschedule the wedding. It’ll be even more luxurious than what you planned.” “From now on, the three of us will live happily together, okay?” She placed one hand on her belly and held my hand with the other. Her gaze was tender, as if she was deeply in love with me. But I shook off her hand, looking at her with disdain. “A child?” “We don’t even know each other, where’s this child from?” “Is finding a sucker to take over the new trend now?”

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My Sister Ran Away from Her Wedding, So I Was Forced to Marry a Man Who Doesn’t Love Me After the wedding, he treated me terribly, his heart only belonging to my sister, Melody. “Don’t think marrying me will give you an easy life! I’ll only ever love Melody!” My husband’s love was unwavering, all because my sister had saved his life when they were children. Soon after, I became pregnant, but he wanted to cut open my belly to take my son’s blood! Even my own parents came to help, all for the sake of curing my sister’s illness! “It’s your blessing to be able to help cure Melody! Stop struggling, or I won’t be so nice!” “It’s just a little blood! That’s your own sister. Do you want to watch her die?” My heart turned to ashes, and I gave up struggling. But after I died, when my husband discovered the scar on my leg, he went completely insane. 0 “The baby is very healthy. Just make sure to get plenty of rest.” “Thank you, doctor.” I left the examination room with my prenatal checkup report, feeling a small comfort as I read the words confirming my baby’s health. “Young lady, I’ve noticed you always come alone. Where’s your husband? You’re six months pregnant now, it’s dangerous. How can he let you come by yourself?” As I sat in a chair, a nurse who looked like the head nurse suddenly struck up a conversation with me. I lowered my head and smiled self-mockingly, gripping the report tightly. “He’s busy with work. I’m fine on my own. Thank you for your concern.” Hearing this, the head nurse handed me a cup of hot water, grumbling disapprovingly, “Having a baby is a big deal in life. Your husband is being very inconsiderate. You should really talk to him when you get home.” I nodded and thanked her again. Lucas and I weren’t in love at all. To be precise, he despised me, hated me, and wouldn’t even look me in the eye. We were married under unavoidable circumstances because my sister had run away from her wedding. To save face for both families, I was forced to take her place as the sacrifice. When Lucas found out about the switch, he was furious. But the Young family ignored his protests, and he naturally took out his anger and resentment on me. He believed I had forcibly replaced my “evil sister” as his bride, thinking me vicious and hypocritical. Even now that I was pregnant, his attitude hadn’t changed. “Where are you?” I sighed and dialed Lucas’s number. The other end was noisy, clearly at some nightclub. “Make it quick. Don’t ruin my mood.” Lucas’s impatient voice came through, almost hateful. “I had my checkup today, and it looks like it’s about to rain. Could you come pick me up?” I tentatively asked him. He was silent for a few seconds, then laughed coldly. “Aria Snow, don’t think you can use these tricks to make me sympathize with you. Keep dreaming. I’m not coming to get you.” My heart trembled. Although I was used to hearing such words from him, I couldn’t help feeling heartbroken and upset. “Lucas, what are you doing? Come over here!” I was about to say something when I heard a girl’s coquettish voice. It was my sister, Melody. “Nothing, just dealing with a nuisance.” Through the phone, I clearly heard their intimate voices. I felt drained of energy, my hand slowly lowering. So I had always been just a nuisance. Seeing that I wasn’t speaking, Lucas cursed under his breath and hung up. I covered my face and sighed, the checkup report long since crumpled in my hand. My sister Melody was beautiful, especially her eyes, which were bright and captivating to anyone who saw them. She had many suitors, including Lucas. Ever since Lucas met Melody, he insisted she was the one who had saved his life as a child because she wore his necklace. From that moment, he fell hopelessly in love with my sister and immediately decided to marry her. This should have been a good match, but Melody wasn’t one to settle down. She wanted Lucas’s love but didn’t want to be tied down to just one man. So she ran away on their wedding day. Surprisingly, instead of getting angry, Lucas pursued her even more, which only increased his disgust towards me day by day. I vaguely remember that on the wedding day, Lucas rushed into my dressing room and grabbed my wrist. “Where’s Melody? Why is it you! I won’t agree to marry you, you shameless woman! Where have you hidden Melody?” Faced with Lucas’s furious questioning, I spoke softly, “She ran away from the wedding. My parents forced me to marry you to save face for both families.” “Impossible! Get out! You must have done something to sabotage this. Let me tell you, I’ll only ever love Melody. Don’t think you can tear us apart!” Lucas glared at me, his grip on my wrist tightening. The pain made me forcefully pull away, glaring back at him angrily. “Lucas! Do you think I want to marry you? If it weren’t for my father’s reputation, I wouldn’t even look at you. You’d better cooperate today, or don’t blame me for doing something drastic.” I paused for a few seconds, then changed my tone, “Especially to your precious Melody, I…” “Bitch!” Before I could finish, Lucas grabbed my neck and pinned me against the wall, glaring at me fiercely. “If you dare touch her, I’ll make your life a living hell!” He only let go after I struggled for a while. I coughed violently, falling to the ground in a mess. “You’re crazy! If you have the guts, just kill me! We both hate this marriage anyway. Wouldn’t it be better if I disappeared?” I covered my neck, gasping for air, still glaring hatefully at the man towering over me. Lucas sneered and crouched down, looking at me with pity, “You’ve used every trick to marry me. If you really died, how would I have the chance to meet Melody at your house in the future? So stay alive. I want you, this vain woman, to watch with your own eyes as Melody and I fall in love.” With that, Lucas wiped his hands in disgust, stood up, and left the dressing room, leaving me alone to suffer the humiliation. On our wedding night, Lucas didn’t come back. He even threw all my things into the study. After the wedding, Lucas’s attitude towards me remained terrible. He didn’t even want to stay under the same roof with me. He only came home a handful of times each month. I thought we would just continue like this, not interfering with each other’s lives, but then Lucas’s grandfather suddenly wanted a grandson. So Lucas and I were forced to share a bed, compelling ourselves to be intimate. He often blindfolded himself with red silk to avoid looking at me, while I kept my eyes tightly shut, praying for it to be over quickly. A few months later, I became pregnant as hoped. Perhaps it was the love this new life brought me, but I started to hope for a happy married life, to give him a complete family. After all, the child was innocent. When Lucas heard the news, he was stunned at first, his face filled with surprise. He probably never imagined he would become a father one day, especially with a woman he despised. That’s why he never accompanied me to a single prenatal checkup. “Excuse me, do you need any help?” The nurse’s voice brought me back to reality. I quickly wiped away my tears and shook my head. Then I gathered my things and left the hospital. Outside, it was pouring rain. By the time I got home from the hospital, I was completely soaked and looked a mess. “Dad, the baby…” I was about to tell my father that the baby was fine when I saw Lucas and Melody sitting arm in arm on our living room sofa. At that moment, I felt like the rain had drenched my heart completely. “See? You made it home just fine. Why did you have to ask me if I could pick you up? Your act of playing the victim is truly disgusting.” Lucas looked at me mockingly, his expression as if watching a clown perform in a circus. “Why are you back so late, looking like such a mess? Don’t embarrass yourself here!” My stepmother glanced at me with disdain and threw a towel at my face. I clenched my fists, my long-suppressed emotions finally bursting out, “Lucas! I’ve never said anything about you fooling around with Melody before. I’ve been tolerant enough. Just because you can’t marry her, why do you have to take it out on me? If it weren’t for my dad forcing me, do you think you’re such a catch? You don’t deserve me!” “How dare you speak to Lucas like that? No wonder he doesn’t like you. Look at yourself, acting like a shrew. Can’t you learn from Melody?” My dad, hearing the commotion, came out and immediately pointed at me, criticizing. “Then why don’t you let Melody marry him? Save me from having to watch them disgust me every day!” I shouted loudly. Melody quickly came over and held my arm, speaking with difficulty, “Sister, I didn’t mean to run away. I just wasn’t ready. Don’t blame me, and don’t blame Lucas either.” “Melody.” I looked at her with a cold smile. Only I knew what kind of fangs were hidden behind that pure facade. “Do you like Lucas?” I asked directly. “I…” Seemingly not expecting me to ask so directly, Melody’s expression froze, and she bit her lower lip. “Are you sick? Melody is kindly apologizing to you, and that’s your attitude! Her liking me is my business. She doesn’t need to respond. If you dare to speak rudely to her or treat her badly again, see how I’ll deal with you!” Lucas put his arm around Melody’s shoulders, holding the small figure in his arms. The scene looked warm and harmonious, but to me, it was extremely irritating. “If you love her so much, let’s get divorced,” I said. As soon as the words left my mouth, my father slapped me hard across the face. The pain immediately spread across my cheek, stinging fiercely. “Shameless thing, how dare you say such outrageous words! Quickly apologize to Lucas!” I looked at my father in shock. Ever since our family business started declining, he had become obsessed with connecting with the Young family, even willing to sell the small company my mother left behind before she died, and sell me as well. Seeing his previously gritting teeth now turn into this appearance, my heart turned ice cold. “I couldn’t ask for anything better. If it weren’t for your father saying you’re carrying the Young family’s flesh and blood, I would have kicked you far away long ago. Who are you to act so arrogantly here?” Lucas snorted disdainfully, while Melody in his arms wore an expression of watching a show. “Sister, I was young then, please don’t blame me. Now I truly hope you two can be happy,” Melody said. “We won’t be happy together,” Lucas said coldly, glancing at me before taking Melody’s hand. “I’m only happy with you.” Melody giggled shyly, then looked at me pitifully. “Are you blaming me, sister? Do you think I’m the third wheel in your marriage? I don’t want it to be like this either, but Lucas…” Melody choked up a bit, then continued, “Mr. Young has been persistently pursuing me. I couldn’t say anything too impolite. I hope you can understand, sister. I don’t want to ruin your relationship.” Melody spoke convincingly; I had to admire her acting skills. Melody was about to say something else when Lucas stepped in front of her. “Stop wasting words with her. Didn’t you come back to change clothes? My mom is still waiting to go to the movies. Don’t let some trash delay us.” I frowned and turned my head away. “If you’re going to leave, then leave. Don’t disturb my child.” I don’t know if it was my imagination, but when I mentioned the child, Melody clearly showed a hint of jealousy. But it was just for a moment, and she quickly resumed her soft, innocent appearance. Lucas said goodbye to my father and stepmother, then left holding Melody’s hand without looking back. I returned to my room exhausted and took a hot shower. At this point, my relationship with Lucas was getting worse and worse, but at least I had this child to give some comfort to my shattered heart. 0

Soon, the baby was over seven months along. One weekend, just as I had received my prenatal checkup results, I learned that my sister had contracted a rare disease and was coughing up blood non-stop. “What sin has our family committed to deserve this? Why does this have to happen to my daughter?” When I rushed home after receiving the call, my stepmother was kneeling by the bed, weeping bitterly. My father was at a loss, pacing back and forth. Lucas was there too, which didn’t surprise me. I just gave him a brief glance. “What did the doctor say? How long has she had these symptoms?” I walked to Melody’s bedside, bending down carefully while supporting my belly to observe her closely. Her face was pale, her lips purple, and blood was still seeping out. She looked extremely weak. “The doctors can’t figure out what’s wrong. We’ve consulted so many people, but no one knows what this condition is! My poor daughter!” My father pounded the wall in anguish, blaming himself for his inability to help. I turned to look at Lucas. His face was filled with anxiety, his eyes red-rimmed, clearly very concerned about Melody. “You don’t have any solutions either?” I asked Lucas. Although I had my reservations about her, I didn’t want her to die. Lucas shook his head helplessly, clenching his fists and trembling all over. It was the first time I had seen him so distraught. “There is a way!” My stepmother suddenly stood up and shouted, “You’re just afraid to use it! You’re afraid of divine retribution, but my daughter’s life is hanging by a thread. Nothing can stop me from saving her!” My stepmother grabbed my father’s collar like a madwoman, shaking him violently. “Mom… Mom, don’t force Dad. If it were me, I wouldn’t want to use this method either. It’s too cruel,” Melody said weakly from the bed, coughing several times and clutching her chest. “It’s because you’re too kind-hearted! Nothing is more important than your life!” My stepmother finished speaking and suddenly turned to look at me, revealing a crazed smile, like a predator eyeing its prey. It made me very uncomfortable. “What method? At this point, Melody’s life is clearly the most important thing. Just tell us, I’ll take responsibility for whatever happens!” Lucas rushed over in a few quick steps, grabbing my stepmother’s shoulders and asking urgently. “There’s a witch in our hometown. I went to consult her. She said Melody has been possessed, and only the blood from the heart of a fully formed fetus can drive away the evil spirit,” my stepmother said emphatically. As soon as she finished speaking, everyone’s gaze fell on me. I felt a chill run down my spine. “What are you going to do?” When my stepmother mentioned the blood from the fetus’s heart, a glint flashed in her eyes. I immediately became alarmed and used my hands to protect my child. Then, Lucas walked over to me and said words I would never forget in this life.

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The child I carried for nine months and gave birth to with great difficulty on the operating table, bleeding profusely, was given away to James’s childhood sweetheart by my husband before I even had a chance to see them. All because she wanted a child but couldn’t have one due to health reasons. I cried and begged, pleading with my husband to return the child to me. But he impatiently said I was being unreasonable, even calling me a complete shrew. For the sake of his childhood sweetheart, I gave in time and time again, until finally, I didn’t even have the right to see my own flesh and blood. I lost all hope and left the divorce papers. But when the truth came to light, James Carter refused to divorce, crying out desperately: “Honey, our child can’t grow up without a father!” “I’ve given the child to Emma Thompson to raise.” James Carter’s casual statement made me lose all ability to think. Enduring the tearing pain in my lower body, the child I had carried for nine months was given away to his childhood sweetheart, without me, the birth mother, even seeing them once. The pain spreading throughout my body made every nerve tense up. I suppressed my sobs and questioned him, “Is this what you meant by telling me the baby was in an incubator?” It had been over half a month since the child was born. Not only had I not seen them, but he didn’t even have a single photo of the baby! He knew how much I treasured this child. During pregnancy, I gave up my favorite foods and didn’t dare use any oils despite being covered in stretch marks. I even suffered massive blood loss during childbirth, receiving one critical condition notice after another. Is this how he treats me? If I hadn’t pestered him today, I probably still wouldn’t know where the child had gone! “Why are you making such a fuss? She can’t have children due to her poor health, while you’re so healthy. Besides, we’re still young. Once you’ve recovered, we can have another one.” James Carter spoke casually, as if the child was something dispensable. “Have you gone mad? That’s your own flesh and blood. How could you give them away without saying a word?” He looked down at me condescendingly, “Why are you being so unreasonable? The child wasn’t sold or killed. It’s enough that they’re alive and well in this world! Anyone can be a mother, right? Besides, your temper is so unstable, you’re not suitable for raising a child. In comparison, Emma is the perfect choice to be a mother!” My heart felt as if it was being squeezed by a large hand, a dull pain spreading through it. In James Carter’s eyes, anyone could be the child’s mother, except for me. But he knew that when I became pregnant, the first thing I did was buy picture books to read to the baby, saying it was to let them feel their parents’ love. It was also he who begged me to fulfill his wish and satisfy his desire to be a father. But after the child was actually born, he changed his tune, arrogantly accusing me of being emotionally unstable and unfit to be a mother. My emotional instability was all because of him. Who could bear having their own child given away to another woman by their husband? That was the child I had longed for, a piece of flesh that had fallen from my body. Tears fell uncontrollably, like pearls from a broken string. Even so, James Carter didn’t show any sign of softening. Instead, he impatiently said, “Cry, cry, cry. All you know is how to cry. It’s just a child, why are you making such a big deal out of it? You even started crying, how pathetic.” In the past, he couldn’t stand to see me cry. As soon as I showed any sign of distress, James Carter would drop everything to comfort me until I felt better. But now, he didn’t care at all, letting me cry and shout like a shrew.

He closed the door behind him, leaving with a light remark, “Calm down, don’t act like a lunatic. No one likes you like this.” The James Carter from before used to like all sides of me and never found me sloppy. But why did everything change after we got married and had a child? I held back my tears and picked up my phone, intending to distract myself, only to see that Emma Thompson had posted on Ins. It was James Carter holding the baby, gently comforting them. Unaware friends commented below: “Wow! Congratulations, you’ve been upgraded! When are you treating us to a celebration dinner?” “Mr. Carter is truly blessed, a happy family of three.” “Your wife is so kind and generous, which direction should I bow to find such a great partner?” So in their eyes, Emma Thompson and he were the perfect match, a match made in heaven. After giving birth, I ended up paving the way for someone else’s happiness. Is this the childhood sweetheart James Carter told me about, who grew up with him without any ulterior motives? Only a fool would believe that. He went to such lengths to put on an act, coming to the hospital every day to comfort me for a bit, lying that the baby was in an incubator, telling me to pump more milk to store for future use. I was so naive to believe what he said, happily storing milk, fantasizing about the baby growing chubby and healthy, and being discharged from the hospital together. Several times during this period, I asked him why he couldn’t stay with me more. James Carter would say that the baby was still small and needed his father by their side. But the hospital’s incubators are watched over by professional medical staff, when would it be his turn? James Carter used the excuse of accompanying the child, but in reality, he was spending intimate time with Emma Thompson, leaving me alone to wallow in endless longing for my child. I often had nightmares where my blood-covered baby cried heartbrokenly, asking me why I had abandoned them… In the dream, I explained a thousand times, saying I never abandoned them… It turns out there were signs all along. A man and a woman alone together, who knows what they might do. The more dejected I became, the more smug Emma Thompson grew, thinking she had achieved her goal. But I refused to let her have her way. I called James Carter, telling him to bring back the fresh milk, after all, it was my child. No matter how much I hated him, I couldn’t let the child suffer. He was initially unwilling, brushing it off by saying formula milk would do. “Honey, that won’t do. Since we’ve given the child to Emma to raise, we should go the extra mile. I’ve heard that babies fed with breast milk grow up healthier, more obedient, and are easier to take care of. It won’t give Emma any trouble either.” Upon hearing Emma Thompson’s name, James Carter rushed to my hospital without a second thought, afraid that she might suffer in the future. Seeing me so obedient, he seemed to feel a bit guilty and explained to me proactively for the first time, “I’m temporarily staying at her place to help take care of our baby. If anything unexpected happens, I can handle it.” But some things become more suspicious the more you try to explain them. At first, I didn’t think there was anything wrong with James Carter staying at her place, but after his explanation, I immediately understood. What should and shouldn’t have been done, they might have already done it all. I was just kept in the dark, unaware. As he was leaving, he kept looking back, finally hugging me and saying, “We’re still young, we can have more children. But Emma’s health is poor, she can never have children in this lifetime. Let’s just consider this as doing a good deed, accumulating good karma.”

Every word he spoke betrayed his concern for Emma Thompson, his eyes full of pity for her. He talked about how difficult her journey had been, how she was abandoned by her husband and despised by her in-laws for being infertile, finally leaving with nothing. James Carter sympathized with Emma Thompson but never once mentioned how difficult it had been for me. If James Carter truly loved me, how could he have let me get pregnant? Watching me suffer from morning sickness, endure back pain, and experience the terror of massive blood loss. After all, his eyes only had room for Emma Thompson, how could they accommodate me? James Carter ran off quickly, afraid that she would be lonely at home by herself. I missed my child desperately, but when I wanted to see them, I could only watch the videos on Emma Thompson’s Ins until they were worn out. I humbly and pitifully begged James Carter to bring the child to see me, but no matter how much I pleaded, James Carter refused. He only condescendingly sent me a few video clips, which was better than nothing… As long as the baby was doing well, I could bring them home anytime. My body was recovering day by day, and apart from when I provided breast milk, James Carter had little interaction with me. On the day of my discharge, James Carter surprisingly told me he would come to pick me up. But his words were all warnings, “I’m coming to pick you up only because you’re the child’s birth mother. Don’t try any tricks. The baby is being raised very well by Emma Thompson now, they’ve bonded closely. We’ll have another child in the future, and it will surely be as happy and blessed as this one.” I gave him one last chance, packing my things early and quietly waiting for James Carter to come pick me up. But I waited and waited, until the nurses were urging me to leave, until after the hospital had closed, and James Carter still hadn’t come. I signed the divorce papers, left them on the hospital bed, and took a taxi to Emma Thompson’s place. The two of them were holding the baby, feeding them breast milk. The baby was cooing, saying something incomprehensible. My feet felt as if they were filled with lead, unable to move. I masochistically watched the entire scene, my heart pierced with pain. James Carter held our child, making another woman happy, giving her the right to be a mother, while casually tossing aside his promises to me, even completely disregarding them. I returned home, physically and mentally exhausted, looking at the unopened wedding decorations, feeling that everything was extremely ironic. After an unknown amount of time, James Carter called, furiously questioning me, “Lily Evans, what the fuck did you leave those divorce papers for?”

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Before I married Alexander Foster, I knew he was obsessed with his cousin. But I never imagined that when his cousin Rosalie framed me for torturing a kitten, he would send me to a psychiatric facility. In that facility, I endured endless torment. Eventually, I gave up on loving him and only wanted a divorce. The once-proud Mr. Foster regretted his actions. With tears in his eyes, he stabbed himself, begging me to love him one more time. “Alex, I swear I didn’t kill Peachy! How could I ever harm a kitten?” I collapsed on the floor, desperately clutching Alexander’s hand. Everyone glared at me with fury, as if they wanted to tear me apart. Rosalie sobbed uncontrollably, “Zoe, why did you hurt my kitten? It only scratched you by accident…” The kitten lay on the ground, its fur brutally torn off and its sapphire-like eyes gouged out, covered in blood… I shook my head repeatedly. It wasn’t me. It really wasn’t. “You’re insane. You belong in a psychiatric facility,” Alexander said coldly, looking at me with disappointment. No! No! I don’t want to go to a psychiatric facility! “No!” I screamed, jolting awake. It was… just a dream. I looked at the small dog cage confining me. How could I forget? A year ago, Alexander had sent me to this psychiatric facility. The sharp click of high heels echoed through the dark hallways of the facility, growing louder and clearer. I started shaking uncontrollably, biting my lip until it bled. It was Rosalie. She had come to torment me again. “Get out!” Several men opened the cage and dragged me out roughly. Rosalie grabbed my hair, forcing me to look up. She slapped me hard across the face several times. My cheeks stung, and I knew they were swollen without even looking. “You bitch! What did you do to make my cousin still think about you?” Rosalie screamed, choking me in her anger. “Whore! Slut! Homewrecker!” As I was about to pass out from lack of oxygen, she finally let go. “Cough! Cough!” I coughed violently, gasping for air. Without thinking, I knelt down and started apologizing, “I’m sorry, I’m sorry. It’s all my fault! Please forgive me…” I kept bowing until I felt dizzy. Only then did Rosalie speak with false kindness, “Fine, Zoe. Remember to behave when you get out, understand?” I lowered my head, unable to hide the excitement in my eyes. Get out? I could leave? I could hardly believe my ears. “Alex says your birthday is coming up. He’s taking you home for a break. You know what you should and shouldn’t say, right?” Rosalie’s stiletto pressed against my head, the thin heel causing pain. “Yes, I understand! I understand!” As long as I could leave, at least I would have enough to eat and wear, and no one would beat me… When I saw Alexander again, my heart couldn’t help but flutter. After a year apart, he was still as dazzling and impressive as ever. “You’re late,” Alexander said coldly, his words as sharp as always. Rosalie ignored his cold demeanor and clung to his arm, pouting, “Oh, come on, cousin. Zoe just took a while to get ready. Don’t be mad, please?” Alexander smiled indulgently, gently tapping her nose, “Alright, alright. Whatever you say, Rosie. Let’s go home.”

I obediently followed behind them, not showing any dissatisfaction. Alexander suddenly stopped, causing me to bump into his back. Frightened, I instinctively stepped back, looking fearfully at Rosalie. Alexander frowned slightly and opened the car door. “Zoe, you sit in the front.” Hearing this, Rosalie glared at me several times. I shook my head repeatedly, “No, no, I’m fine in the back.” The air seemed to freeze. Rosalie whined about wanting to sit in the front, but this time, Alexander insisted I take the passenger seat. In the end, I gave in. I had loved him for ten years, and compromising for him had become a habit. “Your birthday party has already started. Don’t embarrass me,” Alexander said, glancing at me. “You look nice.” I clenched my fists and nodded slightly. I was wearing a white long-sleeved cocktail dress that perfectly covered the unsightly scars, with lace gloves on my hands. I turned my head, afraid to make eye contact with Alexander. I was scared of him. My gaze unconsciously fell on the car window, where a bright yellow object stood out in the somber car interior. It was the sunflower charm I had stubbornly placed in his car in the past. It was still nodding its head tirelessly, just like how I used to love Alexander without ever getting tired. I guess it was because, apart from him, no one had ever been kind to me. When I was fifteen, both my parents died. My relatives were busy fighting over the inheritance and couldn’t wait to get rid of me. Then, a divorced man twenty years older than me stroked my face and said I would be his child bride. Seventeen-year-old Alexander came to my house for business and witnessed this farce. Then he said, “If you can’t keep her, let her come to the Foster family.” Apart from his cold words, Alexander treated me well. In terms of food, clothing, and other necessities, I was no different from Rosalie. I told him I would repay him in the future. He looked at his book and chuckled, “No need. Just study hard and don’t let me see your ugly grades again.” I must have been too infatuated later, which made him dislike me. “I didn’t throw away your sunflower,” Alexander said calmly, seemingly noticing my gaze. “Thank you,” I replied. “Screech!” The car suddenly braked hard, making the tires screech against the ground. My head jerked forward unexpectedly, and I instinctively closed my eyes, but the expected pain didn’t come. It was Alexander. His well-defined hand covered my head. My head was fine, but his hand was red from the impact. I carefully observed his expression, almost wanting to shrink into the ground, “Are… are you okay?” His amber eyes flashed with anger, exuding a sense of pressure that made me afraid to breathe normally. His Adam’s apple bobbed, and he spoke with a forced smile, “Am I okay? Zoe, didn’t you always try to please me before? Why are you acting reserved now?” I nervously bit my lip, speaking softly, “No, I was just wondering what birthday gift you might give me.” This answer should satisfy him, right? Sure enough, he chuckled, “You’ll definitely like it.” His anger was really puzzling to me. In the past, I always tried to please him. To make him happy, I would go out to buy gifts for Rosalie even when I had a high fever, cook different delicious meals every day, and even learn how to be seductive in bed, sacrificing my dignity. I cherished every moment we spent together, so I always chattered non-stop, which annoyed him.

But now that I’m quiet, he’s dissatisfied again… The car started moving again, and I could feel Rosalie’s hateful gaze from behind. I was terrified. If Rosalie wasn’t happy, I would surely be beaten to death when I returned to the psychiatric facility, or maybe even torn apart by dogs… I can’t go back to that place. It would drive me insane! Divorce, divorce. If only I could get a divorce, I would be free. The birthday party was extravagant. But I couldn’t pay attention to anything else. My eyes were fixed on the food on the table. The sweet aroma wafted towards me, making my stomach growl embarrassingly and my gastric pain unbearable. All I could think about was eating. Alexander was caught up in business discussions, while Rosalie was surrounded by other socialites. No one seemed to care that it was my birthday party. I swallowed hard, my hands shaking with excitement. I started stuffing desserts into my mouth one after another, even when my mouth was too full to swallow. I kept eating, completely oblivious to the strange looks from people around me. Suddenly, piano music filled the hall. It was “The Dream of a Wedding.” My mind went blank, and my heart clenched. Almost instinctively, I fell to my knees and started kowtowing, my hands even beginning to tear at my clothes. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have seduced men…” Intense fear made my whole body tremble. I could barely distinguish between reality and illusion. In the psychiatric facility, Rosalie always played this piano piece when she tortured me. She said she had always been waiting for the day Alexander would marry her, and she would have this song played at their wedding. She said I ruined everything, that if it weren’t for me, Alexander would have been hers forever. She said this while her thin stiletto heel was pressing hard on my ankle, the intense pain penetrating to the bone. “Will you dare seduce men again, you bitch?” Rosalie’s face was distorted with anger and jealousy. In the dim light, she looked like a demon from hell. Several people violently tore off my clothes. Naked, I could only curl up into a ball as their whips mercilessly lashed down on me. It hurt so much that I shook every night. And in the psychiatric facility, “The Dream of a Wedding” played endlessly, day and night, completely drowning out my screams. No one came to save me. Suddenly, someone yanked me up forcefully. It was Alexander. He frowned, his eyes full of anger, gripping my arm so tightly it hurt. “Zoe, have you gone mad?” His cold words stung me. I gasped for air, his face slowly merging and overlapping with the faces from the psychiatric facility… I shook my head, then nodded, “I’m sorry, I apologize.” But at that moment, I suddenly came to my senses. I wasn’t in the psychiatric facility anymore. Rosalie stood among the crowd, looking at me. When our eyes met, she raised an eyebrow triumphantly, as if warning me to stay away from Alexander, or I would wish I were dead. The murmurs of the people around us became clearer. “This Zoe really is mentally ill, isn’t she? She looked completely insane just now!” “Yeah, it scared me to death. Mr. Foster must be keeping her around out of sentiment. Otherwise, how could a lunatic like her be worthy of being Mrs. Foster? It’s truly embarrassing.” “She started stripping as soon as she had an episode. I wonder if in the psychiatric facility, she was…” I felt Alexander’s grip on me tighten. I cautiously looked at him, and his hand suddenly let go. His voice was cold, “Since when did my family’s affairs become a topic for your gossip?”

Instantly, the world fell silent. Everyone carefully put on smiles and apologized profusely. But I knew Alexander had taken those words to heart. After all, I knew him too well. For the past decade, I had loved him selflessly, analyzing every subtle expression of his, just to make him like me a little bit. With trembling hands, I gently tugged at his sleeve, “Let’s get a divorce.” He didn’t say anything, just silently picked me up and carried me towards the third-floor bedroom, leaving all the guests behind. His face was terrifyingly gloomy, and I didn’t dare to speak again. I was thrown onto the bed forcefully. Before I could catch my breath, a body with a crisp pine scent pressed down on me. Alexander’s breath fanned across my neck, and my hands were bound with his tie, rendering me immobile. His voice was soft but carried a strong sense of oppression, “Did anyone else touch you?” Although our actions were intimately close, I felt our hearts were worlds apart. My lips moved, but no words came out. What could I say? That although I hadn’t been gang-raped, my clothes had been torn off countless times? Or should I question him, asking if he wasn’t the one who sent me there in the first place? I closed my eyes in pain, tears falling. He paused for a moment, then gave me a kiss so intense it left me breathless. His lips and tongue collided with mine, his eyes refusing to miss any of my expressions. The strong possessiveness in his amber eyes almost frightened me. His hands restrained me, forcing me to endure. The fear in my heart and the pain on my body made me instinctively resist. Sensing my resistance, his grip tightened… “Have you fallen for someone else?” he questioned my loyalty. Just as he was about to tear my clothes off, “Bang! Bang! Bang!” Someone knocked on the door. Alexander frowned impatiently, “Get lost!” There was a moment of silence outside the door, followed by Rosalie’s crying voice, “Alex, I’m hurt…” Alexander glanced at me, “Wait for me.” The moment the restraint on my body disappeared, I crawled to the corner of the bed on all fours, wrapping myself tightly in the blanket. Only like this could I feel a bit of safety. The door opened, and Rosalie cried like a child, showing her injured hand, “Alex, it hurts so much…” Alexander gently applied medicine for her, showing a tenderness I had never experienced. While Alexander was washing his hands, Rosalie smiled triumphantly, waving her injured hand at me, “Oh my, I just scraped my skin a little, and Alex is so worried about me. But even if you died, he wouldn’t care at all~” Indeed, she had only scraped her skin a little, with barely a few drops of blood seeping out. I unconsciously touched my own hand. Under the lace gloves, my hands were in a horrific state. On my first day in the psychiatric facility, Rosalie had stomped on my hand with my wedding ring, then stuck needles into it. Long, thin needles were slowly inserted along my nail beds, and Rosalie enjoyed watching my agonized expressions. When she was done playing, she didn’t bother to remove the needles, leaving them stuck in my fingers until they became infected. Alexander had actually called me once. I cried and begged him to let me out. I said I would be obedient and do whatever he wanted from then on. I told him I was being tortured and was about to die, begging him to save me. But he just impatiently said, “Stop acting. It’s annoying.” Now, Rosalie smugly waved her phone at me, looking at me challengingly, “You bitch, what if I post these videos online? Do you think your parents would be so angry they’d come back from the dead?” On her phone screen was a video of me being tortured. In the video, I was begging like a dog, barely clothed…

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The new neighbor has a habit of exposing himself. He often strolls through the hallway in nothing but boxer shorts. We’ve confronted him, reprimanded him, even filed complaints, but nothing has changed. Eventually, he boldly began sunbathing naked on the balcony. Our balconies are adjacent, and when my wife saw him, she was so shocked she cursed him out. This only seemed to boost his confidence. So, I personally marched him to the police station. It was over two kilometers. I escorted him, and he strutted along, drawing the curious stares of onlookers. Finally, we both felt a sense of resolution. Returning from a business trip, I instantly recognized the new neighbor from Apartment 603, Jude, by his boxer shorts. Round face, slightly balding, pale skin, a bit chubby with no muscle, and only wearing gray boxers. While not outright scandalous, it was definitely not appropriate for public spaces. No wonder my wife had been complaining about him lately. He was blocking the doorway of Apartment 601, insisting on helping the resident carry her cat litter inside. 601 is home to a somewhat shy girl who usually speaks softly. She was terrified, shaking her head and waving her hands frantically, repeatedly yelling, “No, no, no…” But Jude wouldn’t take no for an answer. He clutched a corner of the cat litter bag and pushed against the door, already halfway inside. “Why be so formal with me? Neighbors should help each other.” He laughed in a sleazy way, “Once we know each other better, I’ll grill some sausages for you.” “Oh, don’t overthink it, I mean the ones I cook myself.” The girl was on the verge of tears. I couldn’t stand it anymore, so I called out, “Hey, generous neighbor, how about helping me? My hands are sore, and I can’t carry my stuff.” Both turned to look at me. The girl’s eyes lit up so brightly that I almost lost control of my expression. Jude looked me up and down, frowned, and snapped, “Who are you? Needing help with that little load, are you even a man?!” I didn’t appreciate that. I walked over, let go, and my heavy travel bag crashed onto his foot. He yelped, forgetting the cat litter and the door, hopping around clutching his foot. The girl seized the moment, grabbed the 40-pound bag of cat litter, and dashed inside. As the door closed, a tremulous “Thank you” reached my ears. I smirked. Lifted my less-than-40-pound luggage. Hmm, my hands weren’t sore at all.

I turned to head home, but Jude grabbed my collar. “You think you can just walk away after injuring my foot? No way…” I freed myself, turned, and again let my luggage drop—this time on his other foot. Sadly, he dodged too quickly, and it only hit his grimy slippers. Gross. “Why should I stick around? I’m not interested in your grilled sausages.” He got angrier, “What’s your name? Who’s your family? Pay up! Apologize! Or I’ll call the cops.” “Go ahead. Complaining about a little bump like that—are you really a man?” His face fell. He raised a hand to hit me. I quickly stopped him, “Wait.” I dragged him toward our door, making sure we were in view of the surveillance camera, then offered my face. “Go ahead, hit me. Each slap is at least $2000. The harder you hit, the more you pay. I’m just short a bit to get a new car.” I closed my eyes, ready to enjoy a little “Indian massage.” But nothing happened. Jude’s forehead vein throbbed as he gritted his teeth, “Don’t you have any shame? You hit me first.” I rolled my eyes, “Got proof? If not, don’t go accusing people. I’m a model citizen.” There are only three households on this floor. There’s no surveillance outside his door, and the girl wouldn’t help him. Plus, if it came to it, he’d have to answer for harassing a woman. As we argued, the elevator opened. My wife had just come home from work. “Hey, honey!” Jude’s eyes went wide, darting between us. “You have a husband?” “You’re from 602?” It was obvious. Why was he surprised? Jude suddenly snapped, “What gives? You’ve been flirting with me?” My wife was baffled, “Are you nuts? When did I ever flirt with you?” “You smiled at me, wore skirts I like, showing arms and legs, if that’s not flirting, what is?” “Looking like a seductress, you’re clearly up to no good. Good thing I have self-control…” Before he could finish, I slapped him hard, “You filthy mouth, I’ll mess you up.” Holding his face, he suddenly looked excited, “There’s a camera, you’ll have to pay.” “It’s mine. I could erase it.” He quickly backed off. Under my glare, his 5’7″ frame seemed to shrink further. He snapped, “You’ll see,” and fled. As his door closed, the door of 601 creaked open. The girl thanked us repeatedly and insisted on giving my wife a bag of fruit. After hearing the whole story, my wife was furious. “That filthy pig is disgusting. Wandering around with a sewing kit, spewing filthy jokes at every girl. It’s so bad the girls in our complex are scared to go out.” “Yeah, but people have tried reasoning, scolding, even the property management mediated, but it’s useless. Like he said, his actions are immoral, but not illegal. Even if reported, it’s just a slap on the wrist. We can’t do anything.” The girl sighed, “I’m really scared. I might stay with my best friend for a while. You be careful too. You’re big and imposing, but he might try something sneaky. As the saying goes, better to offend a gentleman than a villain.” I nodded innocently. But I was thinking: He’s a villain, but I’m no gentleman.

The next day, Jude installed a camera. But it was as shameless as he was. So, I decided to have a friendly chat. I knocked on his door. “Hey, Mr. Grilled Sausage. Your camera is pointing right at our door. That’s an invasion of privacy. Fix it today, or I’ll call the cops.” Jude opened the door in his gray boxers. The little hole on the right cheek was just like yesterday. Oh, still the same pair, huh? He blew up, “Who are you calling ‘Grilled Sausage’? The name’s Jude, and I’m strong!” He thrust his hips, but all I saw was his belly jiggling. I didn’t bother arguing, “Got it, your grilled sausage has a strong ego.” “But that’s not the point. The point is, fix the camera!” He craned his neck up at a 45-degree angle, “I’ll install my camera however I want. It’s a public area. Who puts private stuff at the front door? You can’t just make stuff up. I went to middle school!” “If you don’t like it, copy me. I’ll keep my camera on you. What can you do?” He tried closing the door, but I blocked it. “You sure you won’t fix it?” He stood firm, “Yeah!” “Smash it if you want. I’ll just install another. If you break it, you’ll pay. I won’t lose.” “Okay, don’t regret it.” I suddenly let go, the door slammed, pinching Jude’s hand. His scream was like a pig being slaughtered. It was music to my ears. After years of dealing with civilized people, life felt dull. This guy’s amusing. I’m… looking forward to it.

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After helping my struggling CEO girlfriend make a comeback, the first thing she did was force me to transfer my shares to her old flame and change the name on my core patent. Everyone thought she had lost her mind for making such an outrageous demand. Shaking with disbelief, I said nothing, simply handing over the stock certificate and transferring all the patents to her. Seeing this, even her old flame mocked me, calling me a lovesick fool, the biggest idiot in the world. But I calmly asked my system: “System, you said that if I sincerely treated Megan well and she betrayed me, everything she gained during our relationship would be returned to me as compensation. Does that still apply?” Time seemed to stop, and I heard the faint hum of the system responding: “Strategy failure detected. In 24 hours, Megan will be saddled with eight million in debt and will have nothing, just like seven years ago. Meanwhile, you, the host, will own the entire company and all assets under Megan’s name.” “As for the shares you just gave away, since they were transferred under Megan’s coercion, they will also be returned to you in 24 hours.” And with that, the system vanished. Suddenly, taunts filled with malice echoed in my ears. “Declan, why aren’t you saying anything? Are you admitting you’re a complete LOSER?” “Weren’t you the one who kept Megan from letting me into the company? Now, who’s the one left out in the cold?” Before me stood a smug-looking man holding the stock transfer document. Rowan. Megan’s old flame, who had abandoned her when she was at her lowest. Six months ago, Megan and I had constant arguments over her insistence on bringing him into the company. In the end, I lost. In the meeting room, everyone looked at me with a mix of pity and ridicule. They all thought I had brought this upon myself. Megan’s gaze slowly moved from the patent transfer document, a smile forming on her crimson lips: “Declan, I thought you’d hold on, but I didn’t expect you to be so reasonable today. Don’t worry, you’ve been a hero following me for seven years, I won’t treat you poorly…” Rowan huffed, deliberately smearing my reputation: “Megan, look at Declan’s cold face. He’s clearly out for revenge. How can you trust someone like him to stay in the company?” He tugged at Megan’s sleeve, acting all affectionate: “Megan, I don’t want anyone else beside you. I just want to stand by your side, okay?” I knew he wanted to completely push me out of the company and take my position as vice president. Megan, who once promised to love me forever, now looked at Rowan with doting eyes, as if burdened by a sweet responsibility: “Alright, don’t go too far.” Turning to me, she said seriously: “Declan, you’ve worked hard these years. How about you take a break? Let Rowan handle the company affairs. He’s more talented and suitable for this job than you.” The room was filled with shock. No one expected the aloof Megan to be so biased, ousting a key figure like me just because of Rowan’s words. Even the most patient person would be angered by such humiliation. They were all waiting for me to flip the table. If it were the old me, perhaps I would have fought Rowan for Megan’s affection. But now, the idea of a grown man fighting over a woman seemed childish to me. In everyone’s eyes, I said nothing and walked towards Rowan. Feeling guilty, Rowan stepped back, swallowing nervously: “What, you disagree? Why are you staring at me like that without saying anything?” Megan frowned, about to chide him. But I removed my name badge, shoved it into Rowan’s hand, and smiled: “Miss Megan is right. It’s time for me to step down. From now on, the company depends on you, Mr. Rowan.” I smirked internally. All I wanted was to see them fall from their peak arrogance into the dust. Everyone there, veterans of the office, knew how to assess the situation. After the initial shock, they all congratulated Rowan: “Mr. Rowan, I’ve always known you were extraordinary, destined for greatness! We’re counting on you and Miss Megan to lead us!” “Indeed, Mr. Rowan, you’re impressive, way beyond Declan. This vice-president position is yours.” For a moment, the meeting room was filled with laughter and cheers. And I was just something to be stepped on and used for their praise. Megan was full of tenderness, her lips curled up, happier than if she herself had been praised. Just as I was about to leave, Megan stopped me. I instinctively wanted to avoid her touch. The next second, she pinned Rowan’s supervisor badge on my chest and patted my shoulder with a light laugh. “Declan, although you’re not the vice president anymore, I can still promise you a supervisor position. Work hard, okay?” Her tone was so formal, like a casual boss. No one would think we were lovers sharing a bed for seven years. When Megan’s hand came down, she discreetly squeezed my cold fingertips and then quickly let go. I shivered. I knew her fleeting gentleness was just a trainer’s reward for a well-behaved dog. It was like before; whenever she called me into her office, saying a few insincere words and offering coffee, I’d be full of energy, working until morning. Now, I wouldn’t be mentally manipulated, swayed by the little sweetness she gave. I shook my head, took off the supervisor badge, placed it on the meeting table, and turned to leave. Behind me, Megan was a bit stunned, instinctively rubbing her fingers. Her once foolproof tactics suddenly failed. Rowan, seeing me leave, suddenly acted out, shouting: “Declan, it’s work hours, are you planning to skip work?” He deliberately stuck out his leg to trip me. I stumbled, falling to the floor with no dignity. Pain radiated through my limbs, especially my chest, as my throat continuously choked up a metallic taste. At the same time, a royal blue ring box rolled out of my pocket. I instinctively reached out to put the ring back in, but a leather shoe stomped on my hand. The hard sole ground into my hand, drawing blood. The intense pain forced me to let go. Rowan picked up the ring box, sneering: “ZC and MX. Declan, this looks like your and Megan’s initials.” “Is it true you secretly love Megan, even preparing an engagement ring? Were you planning to propose?”

His tone was full of ridicule, as if he had seen the most ludicrous joke in the world. The meeting room erupted into laughter, all mocking my foolish delusion. “Just him? He only got the VP position due to seniority. Our Miss Megan was a rich heiress, a perfect match with Mr. Rowan!” “Some people dream of what they can’t have. He peeks at Megan’s office all the time. I kept quiet out of respect, but now, a proposal? Does he think he’s worthy?” Amidst the jeers, Megan’s long lashes trembled, covering her eyes, making it hard for me to read her expression. But she remained silent. I chuckled bitterly. In seven years with Megan, I proposed countless times. She always hesitated, declined, telling me to wait until the company went public. To achieve that, I worked tirelessly, paying off her debts and helping her rise again. But now the company was public, and I happily brought the ring to work, only to be dragged into the meeting room and presented with two contracts to sign. One for stock transfer, the other for patent transfer, squeezing me dry. Coming back to reality, Rowan still mocked me, playing with the ring I spent seven years designing: “Megan! Look at this ring with your favorite wave design. This idiot probably doesn’t know we got our marriage certificate yesterday!” Marriage certificate, wedding. Those words left me stunned. Suddenly, Megan’s always-cool face turned red, her delicate features shy. Her reaction fueled the gossip of those present, all congratulating Rowan and Megan on starting a family soon. The atmosphere was even more lively. It felt more like a wedding than a company. I was the complete fool. While I dreamed of marrying Megan and working for the company, she had already married someone else. I quietly got up, cradling my injured hand, ready to leave. But Megan grabbed my arm, returning the ring to my palm, gently: “Declan, this is valuable. Take it back. Rowan went too far today. I’ll give you half a day off. Go bandage your hand at the hospital.” A slap, and then a sweet treat. I’d had enough. I tossed the ring into a nearby trash can, saying flatly: It felt more like a wedding venue than a company. I felt like a complete fool. While I was daydreaming about marrying Lydia and working hard for the company, she had already tied the knot with someone else. I quietly got up, clutching my injured hand, and turned to leave. Lydia stopped me, placed the ring back in my hand, and gently said, “Declan, this is quite valuable. You should keep it. Rowan was out of line today, so I’m giving you half a day off. Go get your hand bandaged at the hospital.” A slap in the face, followed by a consolation prize. I’d had enough. I threw the ring into the nearby trash can and said calmly, “Just some trash I forgot to throw away.” Then, I turned and walked away. The ring made a clear clinking sound as it hit the trash can. That sound also marked the end of my love for Lydia. As I walked out of the company, I realized that it had started sleeting at some point. The cold wind was biting, chilling me to the bone. On a bench by the roadside, a couple huddled together for warmth, sharing a scarf. Feeling a bit lost, I slowly walked to another bench and sat down. Seven years ago, in similar weather, I found Lydia huddled on a roadside bench, wearing thin clothes. She was once the golden girl, and I was just a poor student who silently admired her. Later, when we graduated, her family was betrayed by the Rowan family, went bankrupt, and her father jumped from a building. Her mother followed suit. When I took her in, she was burdened with an eight million debt and had no relatives to turn to. Back then, I vowed to help her, and unexpectedly triggered a companion system. The system promised that if I helped Lydia to rise again and walk down the aisle, I would receive a reward worth billions upon completing the mission. The system assured me, “Lydia’s character is deeply devoted and loyal; she would never betray your efforts. If she ever wrongs you, everything you helped her gain will be returned to you as compensation!” I never put much stock in its promises; I believed in sincerity for sincerity. I turned down offers from international firms, started from scratch to help Lydia pay off her debts, and helped her rebuild her life, simply because I wanted her to be happy. Lydia did grow closer to me, even confessed her love. But sweetness was ultimately just an illusion. Six months ago, Rowan, who had squandered his family’s wealth, shamelessly sought Lydia’s forgiveness. Lydia, who claimed to take Rowan in for revenge, panicked and rushed him to the hospital for tests just because he complained of a stomachache after skipping breakfast. Since then, she’s been taking care of him, sharing meals together. Yet when I was sick and hospitalized, she no longer cared, dismissing it with, “Adults don’t have it easy. Just endure it.” When I argued with her, she claimed she had a clear conscience, blaming me for being jealous and reckless. At that time, I thought Lydia just couldn’t let go. Now I understand, she never intended to let go. Some hearts are as cold as stone, impervious to warmth. The system was right, Lydia was indeed deeply devoted and loyal. But her devotion and loyalty were always to her childhood friend who once abandoned her. The slanting rain struck my face, cold and biting. In my mind, I couldn’t shake the image of Lydia blushing as she admitted her engagement to Rowan. But Lydia doesn’t know that everything she now possesses will vanish tomorrow. And Rowan is nothing but a greedy man. Back then, he broke off the engagement with her for the sake of family interests, even kicking her when she was down by demanding the return of gifts he had given her over the years. By then, I’ll see if the Rowan she pines for will still want her when he finds out she has nothing.

Having come to terms with everything, I found myself soaked by the rain and snow. I hailed a cab and went home. Once home, I began packing things. But I wasn’t packing my own belongings; I was packing Lydia’s things instead. Although the property deed currently bears Lydia’s name, tomorrow, this house will be mine. I was halfway through when Lydia came back. “Spring cleaning?” She threw her wool coat at me, saying, “While you’re at it, hand wash this coat for me. It got splashed with snow water when I got out of the car.” I casually tossed her coat onto the sofa and coldly asked, “Why are you back now?” Usually, at this time, she’s always out having dinner with Rowan. She kicked off her high heels, changed into slippers, and casually explained, “Oh, it’s cold outside today, I brought Rowan a coat so he won’t get sick… wouldn’t want people saying our company mistreats employees.” Her excuses flowed easily, and I used to think I was being petty. Seeing no reaction from me, she pinched my cheek, laughing, “What’s with the sour face, handsome Declan? You didn’t really think Rowan and I are getting married, did you? He was just joking. But since he’s the vice president now, for the company’s image, I couldn’t say no, right?” “As for our marriage, don’t rush. The company just went public, I’ll agree once it stabilizes, alright?” I felt nothing for her attempts to please me. I didn’t even bother arguing why she once said workplace relationships were bad, avoiding me at all costs, but now allowed rumors of her and Rowan’s marriage to spread throughout the company. Seeing I still didn’t respond, Lydia got serious. She was in a good mood today, taking my still swollen and raw hand and gently blowing on it, coaxing, “Still hurt? I scolded him well today. He accidentally stepped on you, you know? You’re a man, don’t mind it.” I remained silent. Her patience wore thin, she turned and went into the room, rummaging through the wardrobe, issuing orders without looking up. “By the way, tomorrow is Rowan’s first day in office. Write him a plan to quickly adapt to the VP position, and draft a speech for him. He’s not good at these formalities, and you’re good at it.” I forced a sarcastic smile. Every time Lydia gave me a little sweetness, she had to make me pay something in return. She’s so stingy. I used to think Lydia appreciated my performance. Now I realize she just saw me as a useful tool. She found a black down jacket in my wardrobe. After finding the clothes, she didn’t leave. She took out a backless red gown from her wardrobe. Then slammed the door shut. Five minutes later, she opened the door, ordering me, “Declan, bring me my curling iron from the bathroom!” She was talking while applying lipstick in front of the mirror, blending it with her finger. Wearing a backless dress and heavy makeup in the dead of winter, it’s clear she’s not just going out for a meal. A woman dresses up for someone she loves. Lydia was always so plain in front of me. Now I see, she just doesn’t love me. I obediently brought Lydia the curling iron. Since she chose to be with that hypocritical Rowan, I choose to respect and bless her. Lydia smiled sweetly, curling her hair while continuing to paint a picture, “Declan, don’t worry. Although the shares are gone, you won’t miss out on the year-end bonus.” As she spoke, her phone screen suddenly lit up, a message from someone nicknamed “Star” appeared: “Why aren’t you here yet? I’ve been waiting for you for a long time, how about we try a waterbed this time?” I suddenly remembered Lydia recently changed her nickname to “Star is Mine.” She said the star represents her dream, and now the company’s public dream is about to come true, so she changed the name. Turns out, that was a lie too. Lydia instantly locked her phone and hurriedly said to me, “Declan, something came up at the company, I might have to work overnight tonight, don’t wait up for me.” I felt my stomach churn, truly disgusting. She now thinks she has me completely under control, not even pretending anymore. After Lydia left, I threw all her things out the door. No more thoughts, I had a good night’s sleep. The next day, I felt refreshed, waking up to the system saying: “Lydia’s company and all assets have been transferred to the host, with a total value of 1.5 billion in compensation. Please check your account.” I stretched, put on clothes, and prepared to take over the newly acquired company. The moment I stepped into the company, I was greeted by a bunch of ribbon decorations and balloons. A banner directly in front of me read seven big words: “Welcome Vice President Rowan!” The office furniture was pushed aside, the center turned into a table for drinks and desserts. Lydia once said the company is a place for work, it must be serious, never allowing such celebrations, yet she made an exception for Rowan. Wearing a tailored suit, Rowan saw me and deliberately made things difficult: “Declan, you’ve gone too far. You knew today is my first day as VP and you showed up late on purpose?”

He’s not wrong. I was late on purpose. Rowan spoke, and everyone who was previously fawning over him with clinking glasses turned to watch me, waiting to see me make a fool of myself. Lydia’s hand was still on Rowan’s shoulder, adjusting his tie. Seeing me, she lowered her hand and joined Rowan, saying, “Declan, why are you so late? You didn’t complete what I arranged yesterday, and today you confront your superior. Shouldn’t you bow to Rowan and apologize?” I stood still. Rowan put on an act: Actually, he was right—I was late on purpose. When Rowan spoke, the crowd that had been praising him turned to me, eager to see me embarrass myself. Megan, who was adjusting Rowan’s tie, saw me and lowered her hand. She and Rowan said in unison: “Declan, why are you so late? I gave you tasks yesterday that you didn’t complete, and now you’re talking back to your superior. Shouldn’t you apologize to Rowan?” I stood still, unfazed. Rowan put on a show of concern: “Megan, Declan used to be the Vice President, so he might have a bit of pride.” He looked at me with a spiteful grin. “Declan, as the Vice President, I have to enforce discipline. If everyone starts at 9 AM, you must be here by 7 AM. Miss it once, and I’ll cut your attendance bonus. How does that sound?” I scoffed: “You think you have the authority to cut my attendance bonus?” Seeing I was not giving Rowan any respect, Megan slammed the table and threatened: “Declan, watch your tone! Do you think just because the company went public, I can’t fire you?” The crowd, seeing the CEO’s anger, joined in: “Declan, have you lost your mind? Anger our Megan, and you’ll suffer!” “Exactly, you’re just a small-time supervisor now, and you dare speak like this? Do you want to quit?” Their smug expressions were a stark contrast to when they used to flatter me, calling me ‘Brother Declan.’ I met Megan’s glare and calmly said: “Then go ahead and fire me if you can.” Rowan looked at me incredulously, sizing me up with a cold smile: “Declan, are you insane from the shock? Once you’re fired, which company would want you? You want to resign? I’ll help you—” Before he could finish, Megan interrupted with a sharp command: “Enough arguing!” She looked at me arrogantly: “Declan, stop making a scene. There’s a pile of work waiting for you. I’ll give you one more chance to make up for it.” After she spoke, everyone in the room exchanged glances and, in a coordinated move, piled their files into my arms. Before I could react, my arms were buried under a mountain of files, almost breaking them. Rowan, full of mockery, jeered: “Megan’s right. Declan, go to the lab, complete 18 sets of data, and submit five reports by the end of the day, or I’ll dock your salary!” Even if I worked non-stop for a month, I couldn’t finish it all. It was obviously a setup. They thought I had no other option, that I had to beg them? I laughed bitterly and let go. Files scattered to the floor. Everyone looked stunned. I asked coldly: “Have you ever seen a company’s owner do this much work?” Rowan seemed to think of something and sneered: “Owner? Declan, are you still dreaming you hold that ten percent stake? Megan and I are the real owners of the company!” Megan, impatient, snapped: “Declan, don’t get arrogant just because you have a bit of authority. Our publicly traded company has plenty of talent eager to join. Giving you a supervisor position is already generous.” “If you keep this up, you’ll start from an intern! Better review the company’s bylaws!” The crowd, even more indignant, chimed in: “Declan, don’t refuse a good offer only to suffer the consequences. If you don’t want to work, then leave. Anger Megan, and you’ll regret it!” I smirked, pushed through the crowd, pulled out a boss’s chair, and sat down. Crossing my arms, I looked around at their shocked faces and said seriously: “I’m giving you all one last chance to apologize. Otherwise, don’t blame me for firing all of you.” Seeing me so calm, everyone started to panic and instinctively looked at Megan. Megan, eyes wide with embarrassment, said: “Do you really doubt me? Can’t you tell who your boss is?” She shouted for the head of the legal department: “Bring out the ownership certificate for the company!” Rowan, regaining his composure, looked smug: “Declan, you’ve really blown it this time, angering Megan. Do you know what you’re doing? Fraud. Our legal department isn’t to be underestimated.” “If you don’t want to end up in jail, kneel and beg us. Maybe if you please us, we’ll let you off.” Someone even tried to pull me out of the chair. Just then, the head of the legal department found the certificate. Megan, without even looking, coldly said: “Tell them who the real owner of the company is!” The legal head looked at Megan with a complex expression before respectfully handing the certificate to me, asking: “Chairman, Megan and Rowan have been using your name for fraud. Do you want me to draft a lawsuit for fraud charges?”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “NovelMaster” app 🔍 search for “295646”, and watch the full series ✨! #NovelMaster #现实主义Realistic #重生Reborn #浪漫Romance #魔幻Magic #励志Inspiring #校园School