Two speedboats collided, and I was left half-conscious, drowning in the open water. I was rushed to Riverside Memorial Hospital, where my wife, Serena Caldwell, worked. Instead of saving me, Serena chose to focus her efforts on operating on her high school ex-boyfriend, who suffered a broken leg in a car accident. She signed the Cremation Authorization Form, effectively sealing my fate. While I was being transported to Westbridge Funeral Home, she led her ex-boyfriend into the very emergency room meant for me. Content Chapter “Dr. Caldwell! This patient was in a boating accident near the coast. He can’t swim and was already unconscious when rescued. He needs immediate medical attention!” Through the fog of my fading consciousness, I felt someone pry open my eyelids. Seconds later, I recognized the cold, clinical voice of my wife, Serena Caldwell. “He’s brain dead. His body is deteriorating rapidly. There’s no point in continuing resuscitation.” “All of you, assist outside. A multi-car pileup just brought in a wave of trauma patients.” Brain dead? Deteriorating? I could still hear them. I was conscious! Recognizing the familiar scent of her perfume, I summoned every ounce of strength I had and curled my finger around the fabric of her scrubs. Serena, save me! She immediately grabbed my hand, her touch momentarily giving me hope. But then, she shoved my hand back onto the bed. She knows I’m conscious! Before I could rejoice, her heels clicked as she stepped away. I heard her instruct the team: “Prepare the OR. I’ll operate on Nathan Cross, the pileup victim with the fractured femur.” Her words sent a chill through me. Nathan Cross—her high school sweetheart. They’d dated in the past, breaking up before college but staying “just friends.” I had trusted Serena when she said she loved me, that she wanted to build a life together. But now, she had just declared me brain dead—so she could save Nathan instead. “Dr. Caldwell,” someone interjected, “According to protocol, we’re required to attempt resuscitation on all emergency arrivals. We also need consent from the patient’s family before discontinuing care. If his family challenges this later, the hospital could face serious consequences—” “Bring me the forms,” Serena cut him off. “I’m his wife. I am his family.” As I heard the swift scratching of pen on paper, alarms from a nearby monitor blared. Minutes later, I heard Serena’s detached voice. “Patient Ethan Clarke. Time of death: September 17, 2024, 1:54 PM. Jamie, draft the death certificate immediately.” “Yes, Dr. Caldwell.” It was absurd. I was alive! How could she declare me dead? Something was wrong. The faint movement I had managed earlier was now gone—I couldn’t move at all. What did Serena do to me? “Hello, Westbridge Funeral Home? My husband just passed. I’d like to arrange a cremation. The death certificate? Yes, I have it…” Her next words shattered my soul. Not only did she abandon me—she wanted to cremate me. When the death certificate arrived, Serena turned to someone nearby. “Give me two minutes to say goodbye to my husband.” I heard footsteps recede. Then Serena leaned close, her breath brushing my ear. “I’m sorry, Ethan. I can’t let Nathan lose his chance to walk again… I’m sorry…” Her voice faded as I slipped further into the abyss. Faintly, I felt hands lifting my body and placing me into a vehicle. “This guy isn’t stiff yet. We’ll keep him in cold storage until the wife finalizes the paperwork.” “Man, he looks young. What a waste.” Their conversation was the last thing I heard before I blacked out. Chapter

When I regained consciousness, I was freezing. The cold seeped into my bones as if I were lying in the snow, with icy winds cutting through me. My shallow breaths echoed faintly in what I now realized was a small, dark space. The air felt stale, and my own breathing was nearly imperceptible. They’d put me in a cold storage unit—a precursor to the cremation chamber. No one knew I was alive. I was trapped in an endless cycle of despair: either freeze to death here or get incinerated while still conscious. I hated Serena Caldwell. I hated her for abandoning me when she could have saved me. Why? Why would she choose him over me? I heard voices approaching, breaking the oppressive silence. The sound of a cabinet door creaking open startled me, followed by the sensation of being lifted. They moved me onto a gurney. “She’s that big-shot surgeon at Riverside, right? So busy her husband dies, and she doesn’t even show up?” “Yeah, someone sent over the death certificate. Time to prep for cremation.” Their casual conversation chilled me further. “Hold on!” A new voice interrupted. Moments later, I felt my gurney shift to the side as more people crowded into the elevator. As the elevator ascended, something brushed against my hand—fabric, different from my clothing. Someone was standing close to me. This was my last chance to signal that I was alive. I summoned every ounce of focus and willed my fingers to curl. Slowly, painstakingly, I managed to clutch the fabric. Ding. The elevator doors opened. “Holy crap! He’s grabbing my clothes!” “Look at his hand, man! He’s not dead!” Desperate, I tugged again, mustering whatever strength I had left. “He’s alive! Call emergency now!” The commotion faded as darkness engulfed me once more. When I woke up again, I was in a hospital bed, surrounded by machines and tubes. Voices echoed from the room’s entrance. “…The patient didn’t show fixed pupils—how did she sign a death certificate?” “Standard protocol requires resuscitation for drowning cases unless the heart completely stops. No one even tried chest compressions!” “A patient declared dead by Riverside somehow revives at Westbridge. What’s going on here?” The voice I recognized as Dr. Logan Mitchell cut in. “This was Dr. Caldwell’s husband. She personally declared him brain dead and signed the DNR form.” “Where is Dr. Caldwell?” someone demanded. “She’s performing surgery on a car accident victim… hasn’t come out yet.” Hearing this, my chest tightened, and tears pricked my eyes. Serena had been inches from me and still chose to save Nathan over me. The tension overwhelmed me. I gasped, unable to breathe. Machines blared with alarms. My vision blurred as the door swung open. Chapter

“The patient has developed cerebral edema. The swelling is compressing his nerves and affecting his breathing—we need to operate immediately!” “Get Dr. Caldwell in here for the neurosurgery. I’ll handle her external surgical cases,” said Dr. Logan Mitchell, urgency clear in his voice. A nurse sprinted out of the room to fetch Serena. Minutes later, hurried footsteps returned. “Dr. Mitchell, Dr. Caldwell said her husband is beyond saving. She insists on staying with her current patient because, in her words, she has to prioritize the living. She also said…” the nurse trailed off, hesitating. “Spit it out!” “She said if you insist on operating on her husband, you’re free to do so. She’s already signed the consent to discontinue care. And… she won’t hold it against you if your skills aren’t up to par.” Even though I already knew, deep down, that Serena valued Nathan Cross more than me, hearing her indifference from someone else stung. Serena was a top neurosurgeon. If she chose to perform my operation herself, my chances of survival—and avoiding severe complications—would significantly improve. But she wouldn’t. Maybe that’s the difference between love and indifference. All I could do now was hope I would survive this… “Prep the OR. I’ll do the surgery myself,” Dr. Mitchell declared firmly. I was wheeled into the operating room shortly after. As I drifted in and out of consciousness, I heard the faint sound of a scalpel slicing through my scalp, followed by the rhythmic beeping of monitors and the frantic voices of the surgical team. The longer the operation went on, the colder I felt, like a fragile paper boat struggling against the stormy waves of a vast ocean. My body grew heavier with each passing moment. “Contact the blood bank! We need more units—stat!” “Cardiac arrest! Get the crash cart over here!” Amid the chaos, a voice cut through the noise, steady and resolute. “Stay with us. Don’t give up…” Those words were like an anchor, tethering my fading consciousness. I can’t die. I won’t die. I have to live! How long I fought, I couldn’t say. Eventually, my awareness dissolved into darkness. As I succumbed to the void, a single thought crossed my mind: Would I ever open my eyes to the world again? I hoped so. When I finally woke up, three days had passed. Like before, I couldn’t move or open my eyes, but I could hear the faint beeping of monitors and the hum of medical equipment. I was alive. The realization sent a surge of emotion through me. I had made it through another trial. The sound of a cart being wheeled into the room interrupted my thoughts. Two nurses came in, performing their routine checks and adjusting my IV. One of them tugged the blanket over me and sighed. “Dr. Caldwell’s husband still hasn’t woken up. If she hadn’t misjudged him, he wouldn’t be in this condition. Poor guy…” “He’s lucky to be alive at all,” the other nurse replied. “You know who really got the short end of the stick? Dr. Mitchell. He saved this man and still got suspended because of her complaint. Who knows what else might happen to him?” “I heard reporters are coming in to cover the car pileup and the boating accident. Dr. Mitchell’s suspension means all the attention will go to Dr. Caldwell—” “Shh! Someone’s here.” The nurses fell silent as the door swung open. “Dr. Caldwell!” “I’m just here to check on my husband. Is there anything you need my help with?” Serena’s voice was cool and composed. “N-no, not at all. We’ll check on the other patients,” one nurse stammered before both scurried out. Serena approached my bed. I had no idea what she planned to do, but her presence filled me with dread. Leaning over, she pried open one of my eyelids, then chuckled softly. I felt a wave of unease as she stepped back and pulled out her phone. “Hi, sweetheart. Ethan had the surgery, but his luck ran out—he’s a vegetable now.” Her voice was light, almost amused. “No, don’t worry. I don’t have to get my hands dirty. We’ll still get all of his money. Once everything’s settled, we can finally take that trip abroad…” Her sweet, almost tender tone didn’t match the venomous words she spoke. Serena whispered into the phone as she left the room, her heels clicking against the tile floor. I couldn’t believe what I had just heard. She called someone else “sweetheart.” She was plotting my death. She wanted my money?! Chapter

Clang— The door to my hospital room closed, and Serena Caldwell’s footsteps echoed down the hallway until they disappeared entirely. My mind was a whirlwind of disbelief. I couldn’t reconcile the sweet, caring woman I’d married with the person I had just overheard. We’d met two years ago through mutual friends, bonded over our shared love of hiking, and quickly married. Though she had always been a bit distant due to her workaholic nature, she’d shown me moments of tenderness that I cherished. She’d cook me dinner whenever I returned from a business trip and bring me coffee late at night when I was buried in work, urging me to take better care of myself. I still vividly remember the moment I decided I wanted to marry her—just three months into our relationship. But it wasn’t me who proposed. Serena surprised me by dropping to one knee with a ring. She said she felt sorry that I’d lost my parents in high school and spent so much of my life alone. She wanted to give me a home. Back then, her words filled me with warmth, her actions proof of her devotion. But now, lying helpless in this hospital bed, trapped in a body that refused to obey, the truth stared me in the face. She’d never loved me. It was all a scheme. Her kindness, her affection—they were calculated moves to get her hands on the hefty life insurance payout my parents had left me. The love I thought we had was a lie, a con. And I had fallen for it—completely. My heart burned with equal parts rage and despair. Worse yet, her phone call had made it clear she was done waiting. Serena was ready to take the final step to claim my money—my life. I was a vegetable, completely at her mercy. If she wanted me dead, she could easily finish the job right here in the hospital. I couldn’t fight back. I couldn’t run. I could only wait. Wait for a miracle to pull me out of this nightmare. Time passed, and slowly, I began to notice faint signs of improvement. A twitch of a finger here, a subtle jerk of my leg there. The first time a nurse saw me move, she rushed to fetch a doctor. But his verdict dashed any hope: “It’s just a nerve reflex. Nothing to indicate recovery.” But I knew better. I could feel it. The heavy weight trapping my body was lifting—little by little. One day, after the doctor finished his rounds, commotion erupted in the hallway outside my room. Moments later, a group of people filed into my room. Among them was a reporter with a cheerful, melodic voice. “Dr. Caldwell, I understand that in addition to the multi-car pileup, there was a boating accident in the city that day. The victim of that accident… was your husband, correct?” “Yes,” Serena replied, her voice tinged with the perfect amount of sorrow. “My husband runs an advertising agency. That day, his company was organizing a speedboat promotion event. Unfortunately, there was an accident…” Her voice broke slightly, as if she were holding back tears. “Although the emergency team worked tirelessly, he was underwater for too long. He survived but is now in a vegetative state.” “Dr. Caldwell, this must have been devastating for you,” the reporter continued. “And on the same day you were leading the rescue efforts for the car crash victims, no less. The pressure must have been overwhelming.” Serena cleared her throat and let out a dramatic sigh. “We’ve only been married for two years. I never imagined I’d see my husband like this. Of course, it’s been hard. I wish I could take his place…” Her words dripped with faux sincerity, and I felt sick listening to her performance. My body, sensing my boiling anger, responded with sudden, jerking movements. Beep. Beep. Beep. The machines hooked to me sounded their alarms, sending the reporter into a panic. “Dr. Caldwell! What’s happening to him?!” “Nurse, help me!” Serena shouted, rushing to press down on my thrashing body. The nurse quickly checked the monitors and gasped. “Dr. Caldwell, his heart rate is spiking, and his blood pressure is dropping fast!” “Prepare for emergency resuscitation!” Serena barked, pulling the privacy curtain to block the view of the reporters. She knelt on the bed beside me and began performing CPR. Each compression felt like a boulder crushing my chest. I couldn’t breathe and was on the verge of blacking out. “Patient has gone into cardiac arrest…” someone muttered as the equipment was disconnected from my body. I heard Serena’s voice break as she sobbed over me. “Ethan…” Tears streamed down her face as she called my name again, her cries echoing through the room. “Dr. Caldwell, we’re so sorry for your loss. He wouldn’t want you to dwell on this,” one of the reporters tried to console her. “Exactly. Sometimes death is the kinder fate,” another chimed in. Serena wiped her tears and sniffled. “My husband loved life deeply. He even signed a body donation agreement. I’ll honor his wishes by giving his life a new purpose.” The reporter burst into tears, overwhelmed by Serena’s supposed selflessness. “Dr. Caldwell, you and your husband are true heroes. I’ll make sure your story reaches everyone—people deserve to know about your sacrifice.” Their words only added fuel to the fire inside me. This vile woman wasn’t just plotting my death and taking my money—she was using me to make herself famous. But my rage couldn’t move my body. I was still trapped. Still helpless. Until, in my fury, I felt it—a fist. My fist. Clenched tight. I could move. A surge of adrenaline shot through me. Summoning every ounce of strength, I forced my eyes open and sat upright. Serena’s horrified expression was priceless.

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In my previous life, I married the wrong person from a blind date. I thought it was fate, orchestrated by the heavens. It wasn’t until he used my father’s influence to climb the corporate ladder and had an affair with my best friend that I realized the truth. It turns out it was all his calculated plan from the beginning. So when he sat across from me again in this life, I politely reminded him, “I’m sorry, but you’re in the wrong seat.” In my previous life, I died in the delivery room. As my soul drifted out, I saw my parents crying uncontrollably outside. The nurse, carrying my newborn son, couldn’t find his father anywhere. At my funeral, my husband Felix shamelessly arrived with my best friend Brynn. My parents, their hair turned white overnight, were so enraged they nearly attacked them with a stick. Felix easily dodged and sneered, “Father-in-law, you should be thanking me. Otherwise, you wouldn’t even have a grandson now.” He left with his arm around Brynn’s shoulders, turning back to glance at my memorial tablet one last time. “Oh, and thanks for all your help these past few years.” My father nearly fainted from anger. I trembled with rage, watching the despicable couple gloat. All I could do was pray to heaven for them to face retribution. Perhaps the gods were equally outraged, because I was truly reborn. I found myself on the day of my blind date with Felix. At this moment, I was sitting in a restaurant, waiting for my date. Of course, it shouldn’t be Felix. My father was a local real estate tycoon, owning countless properties and land. Originally, my family had arranged for me to meet someone from a similar background. But in my previous life, I lost my senses when I saw Felix, and my parents reluctantly agreed to let me marry beneath my status. I glanced at my watch absent-mindedly. Felix should be arriving soon.

A few seconds later, the same voice from my previous life floated down from above. “Sorry to keep you waiting. I’m Felix, nice to meet you.” I looked up through my sunglasses. Lifting them slightly, I couldn’t help but curl my lips. Felix, long time no see. He was still the same as in my previous life, thinking he knew me inside out. For this date, he had deliberately dressed in the clean, sunny style I liked. He wore a sporty outfit that looked out of place in this upscale restaurant. It’s ridiculous how I fell for this mismatch in my previous life. I guess I was tired of seeing men in suits, talking endlessly about luxury brands and profits. Felix gently pulled out the chair and was about to sit down. Before he could utter his second carefully planned line, I coldly put my sunglasses back on. “I’m sorry, but you’re in the wrong seat.” His well-practiced politeness nearly cracked at that moment. Felix was half-squatting, looking unsure whether to sit or leave. I simply took off my sunglasses and looked directly at this scumbag. “This isn’t your seat.” Felix stood up awkwardly and started laughing it off. “Oh, is that so? I must have gotten the wrong table.” I looked him up and down, then pointed with my sunglasses to the large restaurant across the street. “Sir, perhaps you went to the wrong restaurant?” At this point, Felix was still a poor guy. Last time we had dinner, he spent over $300, and then kept asking me for expensive gifts afterward. Unfortunately, I was too naive to realize it then. Living this life again, I knew exactly where Felix’s weak spots were. Sure enough, Felix’s expression changed. The scrutinizing looks from people around made him extremely uncomfortable. I crossed my arms and gazed out the window nonchalantly. I wonder what the man I’m supposed to meet will be like this time.

Felix left, and I checked my watch. It had been 10 minutes since the appointed time. I took a sip of water to moisten my throat. In my previous life, there was another reason I chose Felix. It was because of my superstitious mother. Mom was anxious that I was still single at 26, so she dragged me to see a fortune teller. The fortune teller said my destined love would arrive soon. My mom was so happy she immediately paid a lot of money, then dragged me off to start arranging blind dates. However, we both ignored the fortune teller’s long sigh as we left. “Whether it’s fortune or misfortune, it cannot be avoided.” I didn’t understand then, but now I do. This blind date was both a blessing and a curse. Unavoidable? This time, I’m determined to avoid it. I crossed my legs and waited for the man who was actually supposed to meet me. While lost in thought, I heard a soft chuckle from the table opposite. I frowned slightly and looked over. A man wore a light suit jacket with a black and white striped white shirt underneath. His collarbone was deep enough to hold water, and his Adam’s apple bobbed up and down on his long neck. His thin lips were slightly curved, and gold-rimmed glasses sat on his high, straight nose. I raised an eyebrow. He looked every bit the handsome rogue. The starry eyes behind his glasses blinked at me, and before I could speak, the man sat down across from me. Having apparently overheard my earlier words, he first jerked his chin towards the restaurant outside the window. “I certainly haven’t sat in the wrong place.” I widened my eyes in surprise. This man had been sitting across from me the whole time. Was he the one who was supposed to be on the blind date with me? Did I really miss out on meeting him in my previous life?

The man casually picked up the name tag on the table and wrote a few large characters with the pen. When he passed the tag to me, I read the name aloud. “Bodhi Brooks.” I searched my memory for any information about this man. “Are you Mr. Brooks’ son?” My dad and Mr. Brooks were childhood friends. My dad became a businessman while Mr. Brooks took a stable government job. They say handwriting reflects personality. Bodhi’ handwriting looked as bold as he did. It was a bit strange. In my memory, Mr. Brooks was a smooth and reserved person. I followed his example and wrote my name on a tag. “Ava White?” “You seemed quite fierce when talking to that man earlier, but your handwriting looks so elegant?” Mentioning Felix made me feel sick to my stomach. Thinking about how I had missed out on meeting Bodhi in my previous life, I rested my chin on my hand thoughtfully. “That man clearly wasn’t the one I was supposed to meet.” “What if I hadn’t realized and actually hit it off with him? What would you have done?” Bodhi leaned back in his chair casually. “What could I do?” “If my blind date clicked with another guy right in front of me, I’d just accept my bad luck and go home.” I pressed my lips together, feeling a bit embarrassed. No wonder Bodhi hadn’t made a big deal about this in my previous life. Seeing his carefree and nonchalant attitude, I decided to relax and lean back too. “Did your dad force you to come?” “Now that we’ve met and can report back, shall we go home?” Bodhi nodded twice and stood up first. “I’ll drive you back.” Watching his retreating back, I felt a bit confused. Is this handsome rogue what the fortune teller meant by both blessing and curse?

Bodhi knew where I lived and drove directly to the gate of my family’s villa. “Thank you.” I politely thanked him and got out of the car, but was surprised to hear two car doors slam shut. ?? I turned back to look. “Why are you getting out?” Bodhi tugged at his clothes and cleared his throat, standing next to me and dropping his carefree demeanor. I was about to speak in confusion when Bodhi glanced at me. “Who said I was forced to come on this blind date?” As he finished speaking, he opened the gate to my house more skillfully than I could. “Mr. White! Mrs. White! I’m here!!” Bodhi ran into my house in a few quick strides, and his shout brought my parents out. I stood at the door, my mouth twitching, unable to figure out what this guy was up to. If he wasn’t forced to come on the blind date, did he come voluntarily? “Strange.” I shook my head and entered the house, only to see Bodhi chatting animatedly with my parents. “Ava, come in quickly!” “Your father and I were worried at home, but it seems you two got along well!” I stood there speechless, but Bodhi sat properly on the sofa and helped me out. “Mrs. White, Mr. White and my dad are childhood friends. Ava and I used to play together a lot as kids.” “We hit it off right away on this blind date.” I listened in confusion. I could only gather from my parents’ words that Bodhi and I used to hang out together all the time as children. Perhaps because Bodhi was older than me, he remembered more about it. “Stay for lunch, I’ll cook myself!” my mom said happily, the fine lines around her eyes deepening. I looked at Bodhi, feeling a bit lost. Taking advantage of him going to the bathroom, I finally got a chance to corner him in the elevator.

“What are you up to?” I put on an arrogant air, trying to act like the lady of the house. Bodhi tried to leave, but in a moment of impulse, I slapped my hand against the elevator wall behind him. By the time I realized the awkwardness of the pose, it was too late. Bodhi raised an eyebrow, his long phoenix eyes quite captivating. “What are you up to?” he asked, tilting his head to look at my hand next to his ear. I tried to withdraw my hand in embarrassment, but Bodhi caught my wrist with one hand. “This isn’t right.” Before I knew it, I was spun around and pinned against the elevator wall. “This is how it’s done, understand?” I don’t know if it was from embarrassment or shyness, but my cheeks instantly flushed red. After just two seconds of eye contact with those phoenix eyes, I quickly looked away. “Men and women shouldn’t be in such close contact. Get off me!” Bodhi shrugged. “You started it.” “I did not!” I glared at him angrily. But I saw laughter about to burst from his eyes. As the elevator reached the fourth floor, I felt a mix of embarrassment and anger. I raised my foot and stomped hard on Bodhi’ shoe. And ground it in a couple times for good measure. Bodhi clutched his foot and let out an exaggerated yell in the elevator. “Ahhhh!!” “What are you shouting about?!” The elevator doors dinged open, and I immediately darted out. “I told you I wasn’t forced to come on this blind date!” he called after me. I ignored the voice behind me. It was the first time I’d met such a difficult man. Other men I’d met either treated me carefully or subtly bragged about their family background. Bodhi was the first to act so shamelessly and follow me home.

At lunch, I was shocked to see a feast fit for an emperor on the table. “Mom, since when did you know how to cook so many dishes?” My mom beamed with joy and pride. “After getting married, your dad never let me cook. How would you know?” I held my chopsticks, suddenly feeling a loss of appetite. My mom doesn’t love me anymore!! Bodhi, who was drinking with my dad and constantly complimenting my mom’s cooking, immediately chimed in. “Don’t worry, Mrs. White. I’ll definitely learn from Mr. White and take good care of my wife in the future!” ?? My parents exchanged a look, unable to hide their satisfaction. Under the table, I angrily stomped on Bodhi’ foot and twisted it a couple times. Bodhi’ face reddened with pain, but he didn’t take back his words. Instead, he clinked glasses with my dad again. My dad was an old drinking buddy, and today they were drinking some of his prized vintage. By the end of the meal, Bodhi was drunk enough to start shadowboxing on the spot. “Ava, help Bodhi upstairs to rest,” my dad said. I frowned deeply at the drunk man. “Dad, why don’t I drive him back to Mr. Brooks’ house?” My parents’ expressions changed. “How could we do that!” I took a deep breath and pulled Bodhi up. Seeing how drunk he was, I secretly pinched him to vent my frustration. To my surprise, he let out a loud yelp. “Don’t pinch me! It hurts!” My dad puffed up his mustache and raised his arm angrily. Waaaah. Mom doesn’t love me and Dad doesn’t care about me anymore. Bodhi didn’t hold back either, directly leaning half his body weight on my shoulder. This guy must be at least 5’11”! It took all my strength to carry him into the guest room. But when I tried to throw him onto the bed, he pulled me down with him.

I was nearly crushed breathless. “Bodhi Brooks!!” I shouted in a low voice, and only then did he raise his head with a dazed look. Before I could tell him to get off, he put his finger on my lips in a shushing gesture. Meeting those slightly reddened eyes, I was momentarily stunned. For some reason, my heart started racing uncontrollably. “Don’t make noise.” I nodded hurriedly, trying to suppress my pounding heart, and Bodhi finally removed his finger. Bodhi was so close to me, our noses almost touching. A faint fragrance mingled with the smell of alcohol surrounded me. Even though I hadn’t been drinking, I felt a bit dizzy and confused. I suddenly realized this guy was actually quite handsome. Much better looking than Felix. As I stared dazedly into Bodhi’ eyes, I had a moment of clarity. Felix was undoubtedly my misfortune. Could Bodhi be my blessing? “Ava.” Bodhi suddenly spoke in a low voice, and I instinctively responded. “I told you I wasn’t forced to come on this blind date.” “You stomped on my foot really hard.” Hearing this, I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. Before I could respond, he suddenly closed his eyes and lowered his head. I hurriedly turned my face away in fright. Bodhi’ lips lightly brushed my cheek, and soon I heard steady breathing by my ear. It took all my strength to finally push him away.

Even though I pretended to be calm, my steps were a bit unsteady as I returned to my own room. I sat dazedly on the edge of the bed. Remembering what had just happened made my face flush and my heart race. Having just experienced a painfully devastating previous life, I shouldn’t be able to fall for someone so easily. After much thought, I attributed this abnormal reaction to shock. Yes, I was just shocked. I couldn’t remember the childhood with Bodhi that my parents mentioned. Anyway, in all my years, I’d never met such an unreasonable man! After freshening up, I shook my head, trying to get Bodhi out of my mind. But then my mom came in carrying a glass of warm milk. “Ava dear.” Seeing my mom’s face full of smiles, I turned away sulkily. “Now it’s ‘Ava dear.’ Earlier I thought I must have been adopted.” Mom pretended to glare at me angrily, putting the milk on the bedside table. “I’m just anxious about your marriage!” “Mom thinks Bodhi is quite good. He’s handsome and clean-cut. His dad is your dad’s old friend too. If you marry him, you definitely won’t be mistreated. We only have one daughter, and when you get married…” I gave my mom a long look, and she swallowed the rest of her words. I took a sip of milk without speaking. Remembering what had just happened still made my heart beat faster. Mom gathered her thoughts for a while before patting my hand. “Tell mom honestly, what do you think of Bodhi?” I glanced at Mom and considered carefully for a moment.

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After giving birth to a daughter, my husband started verbally and physically abusing me. My life hit rock bottom, and I spent my days in tears. Just when I was at my most desperate, I suddenly found myself transported to a reversed world. This was a matriarchal society where men were responsible for housework and childcare, while women worked outside the home to support the family. During the transportation, I received a special gift – the ability to bring one person with me on this journey through time and space. Without hesitation, I chose my husband. I had just woken up when I saw my husband kneeling beside me. My mother, who had always been somewhat afraid of my husband in our original world, was now standing in front of him, yelling: “You useless man who can’t even lay eggs! What good are you to us? “All these years and you still can’t give us a child. “Tell me, is your belly just for storing food?” Mom seemed unsatisfied with just yelling. After finishing her tirade, she slapped my husband hard across the face. The crisp sound of the slap echoed through the room. Just hearing it made me feel an indescribable satisfaction. — After all these years, husband, you’re finally getting a taste of your own medicine? Mom’s slap seemed to jolt my husband, who had traveled to this world with me, into awareness. He opened his eyes in confusion, glanced in my direction, and then shouted: “Have you all gone crazy!?” When Mom heard his words, she immediately flew into a rage: “What did you say? Say that again!” My husband didn’t respond. He didn’t even look at Mom, just stood up and walked straight towards me. Perhaps due to years of intimidation from my husband, I instinctively shrank back. Before he could take another step, Mom swung her palm towards his face again. Seeing this, my husband grabbed Mom’s arm and yelled: “You crazy old woman, are you trying to start a rebellion?” His words completely enraged Mom. She raised her foot, aiming to kick him in the stomach. I saw a slight smirk appear on my husband’s face as he looked at Mom with disdain. As a boxing instructor, he clearly thought Mom’s strength was no match for his. He didn’t try to dodge at all, letting Mom’s foot connect with his stomach. !!! What happened next shocked me once again. My husband flew backwards like a cannonball, his head slamming hard against the corner of a table behind him. In this reversed world, women were much stronger than men physically. Despite my husband’s tall and muscular build, he was easily overpowered. In our original world, my husband had often beaten me. Just as I was feeling tempted to try it myself, Mom grabbed my husband’s collar and slapped him hard across the face: “Useless waste! Can’t have children, can’t earn money, all you do is eat and take up space!” My husband glared at Mom, his eyes blazing red. He had never suffered such humiliation before, especially not at the hands of my mother. He tried to fight back, but to his shock, he had absolutely no strength to resist Mom’s grip. He could only lie there! 02 At that moment, the door suddenly opened and our neighbor Mrs. Johnson walked in. Seeing Mom disciplining my husband, Mrs. Johnson’s face broke into a meaningful smile. She said: “I’ve been telling you that you need to properly discipline your man. He’s been up to no good all day long. But you never listened!” My husband looked at Mrs. Johnson in shock. Before he could say anything, Mom slapped him across the face again: “What are you looking at! You good-for-nothing!” If looks could kill, my husband would have murdered Mom a thousand times over by now. He glared at Mom furiously, gritting out: “Just you wait. I’ll kill you for this!” “Oh ho! Thinking of rebelling, are we?” Before Mom could react, I rushed over to my husband’s side. I sized him up mockingly, grabbed a fistful of his hair with one hand, and used the other to slap him across the face five times in quick succession. I felt no guilt whatsoever about beating my now powerless husband. In fact, deep inside, I felt a twinge of vengeful satisfaction. Because this is exactly how my husband had beaten me over the past few years of our marriage. I had expected my husband to threaten me with some harsh words after being beaten, but to my surprise, he started vomiting! And he couldn’t stop. Looking at the mess on the floor, I felt my own stomach churning. Mom, who had been on the verge of exploding with anger, now looked at my husband with a puzzled expression. She gave me a meaningful look and asked: “Is your husband pregnant?” “Pregnant?” That was such a familiar word. After all, I had carried a child for ten months before giving birth to our daughter. But now this word was being applied to my husband. It felt rather novel. I looked at Mom tentatively and asked: “He’s pregnant?” Mom rolled her eyes at me, then tapped my head saying: “How can you not know if your own husband is pregnant?” I rubbed my head pitifully. Before I could speak, Mrs. Johnson chimed in: “Well, it’s Jane’s first time marrying a man, so it’s normal she doesn’t have experience. “Next time, if this one doesn’t work out, she can divorce him and marry again. Then she’ll have experience.” This reversed world was amazing! Before I could calm my excited heart, Mom urged me: “What are you standing there for? Take your husband to the hospital for a check-up. He’s been eating our food for so many years, it’s about time he gave us a daughter!” After finishing, Mom smiled at Mrs. Johnson and said: “When you have time, help find Jane a good man!” Mrs. Johnson nodded with a smile and promised to do so. 03 After seeing Mrs. Johnson and Mom off, only my husband and I were left in the room. I looked at my husband teasingly and asked: “Feeling angry?” My husband had just caught his breath. He looked at me with gritted teeth and said: “Jane Carter, just you wait! I’ll fucking kill you one of these days!” My husband had traveled with me to this reversed world, and he was experiencing such a huge change. He definitely needed some time to adjust. So hearing his words, I didn’t get angry. Instead, I looked at him with a smile and said: “Come on, let’s go to the hospital for a check-up. Let’s see if you’re really pregnant. “Tsk tsk, a pregnant man! Just thinking about it is exciting!” Hearing my mockery, my husband didn’t respond. He just sat on the ground, not moving. Seeing this, I grabbed his legs and started dragging him out. My husband shouted loudly: “Jane Carter, let go of me! Jane Carter, I’m not going, do you hear me?” I acted as if I couldn’t hear my husband’s shouts, forcibly stuffing him into the car and tying his hands and feet with the seatbelt. After finishing, I dusted off my hands easily. I hadn’t expected that I would be able to lift my 200-pound husband so effortlessly. I grinned, feeling more and more fond of this world. Under my coercion, my husband “willingly” underwent an ultrasound and urine test. The doctor told me that my husband was indeed pregnant. My husband, who had just arrived in this world, couldn’t accept the fact that he was pregnant. He grabbed the doctor’s hands urgently, saying: “Doctor, you must be mistaken. I’m not from this world, how could I possibly be pregnant?” The doctor was a woman. She pulled her hands away from my husband’s grip and looked at me with disgust, saying: “Control your man. How can he be so ill-mannered? Haven’t you trained him properly yet?” “You bitch! What the fuck did you just say? Say it again if you dare!” As soon as the doctor finished speaking, my husband exploded. Seeing him roll up his sleeves, it looked like he was ready to hit the female doctor at the slightest provocation. The doctor frowned slightly, her fingers cracking as she clenched them. Before the doctor could react, I grabbed my husband and gave him a slap across the face, then covered his mouth. “I’m so sorry, doctor. This is probably his first pregnancy, so he’s not quite right in the head. Please don’t take offense. I’m really sorry, truly sorry.” Saying this, I quickly dragged my husband out of the examination room. On the way home, my husband sat in the back seat, constantly yelling at me: “Jane Carter, tell me how to get back to our original world right now!” I didn’t respond to him, but I was secretly delighted. Want to go back? No way! I finally managed to bring you here to experience the life I once lived. How could I possibly let you go back so easily? Seeing that I wasn’t saying anything, my husband kept rambling: “Jane Carter, you better take me to get rid of this baby right now. If you don’t take me to abort this baby, I’ll kill you first, and then I’ll kill this little bastard!” Hearing this, I felt anger rising in my heart. In our original world, my husband would often threaten to kill me. Now that he was in my hands, he was still so arrogant. Wasn’t he just asking for trouble? I pulled over to the side of the road, opened the car door, and dragged my husband out. My husband, not understanding what was happening, thought I was going to let him go. He shouted at me urgently: “You fucking better take me to abort this baby and let me go back, otherwise…” Before he could finish, I slapped him across the face, interrupting his words. I grabbed his hair with one hand and kept slapping his face with the other. As I hit him, I cursed, mimicking his usual words: “You motherfucker! How dare you be so ungrateful! You ungrateful piece of shit! You son of a bitch…” The more I hit, the better it felt. The more I cursed, the more satisfying it was! After about fifteen slaps, I finally stopped. Looking at his slightly swollen cheek, I felt no remorse whatsoever. I just wanted to beat some sense into him! To let him know how utterly despicable his actions towards me in our original world had been! “Fendi! What do you mean by ‘let you go back’? I don’t understand any of this nonsense you’re spouting. Don’t think that just because you’re pregnant, you can act crazy whenever you want, understand? Otherwise, I’ll fucking kill you!” Saying this, I patted his swollen cheek. I noticed that when my palm touched his cheek, his body visibly trembled. Had my husband become afraid of me, just like I used to be afraid of him? This thought couldn’t help but cross my mind. So he was capable of feeling fear too… 04 Back home, I couldn’t wait to share the news of my husband’s pregnancy with Mom. But after looking around, I found that Mom wasn’t home. Instead, I discovered a pile of dirty clothes in the corner of the bedroom.

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Today is my 18th birthday. My parents forgot, but my online boyfriend sent me a gift. A nightgown with very little fabric. He sent me a voice message, “Baby, come to the hotel and wear it for daddy, hehe.” My name is Linda. I’m 18 years old this year. Is it reasonable to receive a uniform from my online boyfriend on my coming-of-age day? After all, my parents divorced when I was young. I lived with my mother after she remarried, and my mother and stepfather had another child. I’m just an invisible nobody who doesn’t get any attention. My mother’s neglect and my stepfather’s favoritism made me timid and reluctant to speak. Being so lonely and insecure, with no family or friends caring about me, my boyfriend naturally became my whole life. My relationship with my boyfriend Jason was simple. Long-term lack of love, plus the pressure of senior year studies, made me turn to the internet as an escape and a way to act out. The online world is vast and carefree. There, I didn’t have to do anything to have many people care about and sympathize with me. Especially in this private chat room that was very popular. Although some people there said things that were a bit over the line. Like “Little sister, how old are you? Have you had a boyfriend? I like young and tender girls the most.” “What’s wrong, little sister? Are you lonely? Don’t worry, tell big brother where you are, and I’ll come give you a hug right away!” “Sister, I’m a good guy, can you show me your photo?” And so on. These people are really disgusting. I could even imagine all those lewd faces behind the phone screens. Of course, I wouldn’t talk to these creepy people. I had my eye on someone else. “What’s wrong? Did you come here because something unhappy happened? I have a lot of time. If it’s convenient for you, we can chat.” Such a simple sentence, yet it had been absent from my life for the past dozen years. Are you happy? No one cared if I was happy or not, let alone ask. Only he did! This stranger, with just a simple sentence, touched my heart. Am I unhappy? I didn’t reply. His messages continued. “Don’t worry, this is the internet. We’re all strangers here. You can tell me your troubles and sorrows. I won’t know who you really are. I’ll just comfort you, and I absolutely won’t bother you.” That’s right. He doesn’t know who I am. I don’t need to worry or be afraid. I can pour out my heart and vent freely. My mother’s unfairness, my stepfather’s coldness, the pressure from school, the uncertainty of the future… “My parents divorced. I live with my mom. She had another daughter, and I’m no longer her favorite baby… I feel so alone.” I said a lot. He was very attentive, replying to every sentence I said. “That’s so pitiful. Every person is a living being and has the right to enjoy love.” He was also very gentle, comforting me and giving me hope. “If you were my friend in real life, I would definitely give you a comforting hug.” I received long-lost warmth, even if it was from a stranger. Chatting is indeed a good way to pass time. We talked for so long that time quietly slipped by. I hadn’t eaten all day. My stomach was growling. When I looked up, I realized it was already dark. I had to end this pleasant conversation. “I have to go,” I told him. His reply was quick. “So soon? Although we’ve only known each other for a day, I feel like we’ve known each other for a long time. Knowing how hard your life is, I’m sorry I can’t do anything for you.” He sent a sad emoji afterwards and asked to add me on SnapChat. Looking at our chat history and how he cared for me, this was exactly what I had been praying for but couldn’t get. Having finally obtained it, I didn’t want it to just disappear. So, I agreed to add him on SnapChat. He told me his name was Jason, and if I ever felt unhappy about anything, I could always find him. At first, I didn’t pay much attention. After all, people need to learn self-control, so I almost never reached out to him. But he often came to find me. He never missed sending good morning, good afternoon, and good night messages every day. The questions he asked most frequently were: Did you eat enough today? Are you happy? Is there anything you’re unhappy about that you’re hiding from me? Gradually, I started to get used to his presence. At that time, he was like a big brother caring for me, and I enjoyed the emotional value he brought me. Then, he confessed his feelings to me. I still remember what he said when he confessed. “Linda, do you know? From the first time we chatted, I marveled at the wonder of fate. From your words, I could see that you are my destiny!” Of course, I didn’t believe it. “You haven’t even seen me. How can you say I’m your destiny?” My words didn’t discourage him. On the contrary, his care for me became more meticulous, and he was more attentive in everything. That’s when I realized that “destiny” doesn’t necessarily have to be between two people who have met in person. Because I seemed to be gradually falling for him too. That day, after I finished showering, I didn’t reply to his messages for a long time. When I opened my phone, I found over twenty unread messages. “Linda, why aren’t you replying? When you don’t reply, my whole heart is uneasy. I’m worried about you!” “Linda, I’ve realized I love you to the point of no return. Even if I don’t hear from you for three seconds, I feel uncomfortable all over!” “Linda, what are you doing? Have you forgotten about me?” No one had ever put me in such an important position before. The emptiness in my heart seemed to be filled. The corners of my mouth turned up involuntarily. I told him I was just taking a shower. He sent an embarrassed emoji. “Linda, we’ve been talking for so long, and I’ve fallen for you so hopelessly. Can you fulfill one wish for me? Can you show me your photo?” I thought for a moment. “No.” Although we had been chatting for a long time, I actually didn’t know much about him. Most of the time, our topics were about me. He sent a very hurt emoji. “Not knowing what the person I love looks like is too cruel for me.” I was moved. After thinking for a while, I still chose a pretty good photo and sent it to him. “Oh my god! This is exactly what my dream girl looks like! Linda! You’re so beautiful! Linda, just looking at your photo, I’m already imagining what it would be like for us to get married and have children! I want to be with you, be with you forever, and build a happy family with you!” “If we have a child, I will definitely pay extra attention to them. I will never let what happened to you happen to them!” “My baby has been through so much. If I could, I really want to fly to your side and give you a comforting hug!” Just a few simple lines of text made me blush. My grades weren’t good, and college was already out of reach. Although this thought was a bit shameful – I really wanted to have my own family and a man who loved me wholeheartedly. Jason’s existence made me feel “happy” for the first time. Moreover, he said he would treat our children well. He wouldn’t let my tragedy happen to them. Jason was really a warm person. He was worthy of my expectations and aspirations. After that, Jason became even more attentive to me. Although I had never seen him, he had appeared in every corner of my life. Even if we didn’t chat for just an hour, I couldn’t help but think about him. Slowly, he offered to send me gifts. After asking for my name, contact information, address, and school information, I received many small accessories and pretty clothes. Girls are always happy to receive gifts, and I was no exception. Mom didn’t care about me. I hadn’t bought new clothes since freshman year of high school. I felt that Jason treated me better than my own mother. So, I agreed to be Jason’s girlfriend. On the night I agreed to be his girlfriend, my phone kept ringing. Dozens of confession messages from him made my heart sweet. “Linda, can you send me another photo? I love you so much! You finally agreed to be with me! You’re my first love. I want to fall asleep holding your photo!” I blushed. After all, his way of expressing love was too direct and intense. I gave him one. But he didn’t seem satisfied. His message came a few seconds later. “Linda, the photos you send always only show your face. I want to know you better. Can I see other parts? I can’t not know what my girlfriend’s figure is like, right?” I asked him what part he wanted to see. “Can I see your legs?” He sent a pleading emoji. Although legs aren’t a private part, it still felt strangely embarrassing. I said no. Jason’s message came very quickly. I could feel his anxiety from his words. “We’re boyfriend and girlfriend now. What’s wrong with seeing your legs? Don’t worry Linda, I don’t have any other intentions. I just want to get to know you better.” To be fair, he had indeed been very good to me, and I had been chatting with him for over half a year. He had never said or done anything that made me uncomfortable. Maybe he really just wanted to know me better when he asked for photos of my legs? He was so good to me, yet I wouldn’t even let him know what my figure was like. This did seem a bit unreasonable. So, I sent a photo of myself wearing shorts. Long, slender white thighs stood straight, with the girl in the photo making a “peace” sign. “My baby is so beautiful! What a great figure!” His compliments made my heart bloom. I sent an embarrassed emoji with a smile. The next day, I received another package from him. It was an even sexier mini skirt. “My baby’s legs are so beautiful, you must wear the prettiest skirt to match them!” At his request, I put it on and took a photo for him. Once you open that door, it’s hard to control what comes after. He started asking for photos of other body parts, like my upper body in low-cut tops, exposed collarbones, and later, even a few photos of private areas. And I didn’t think there was anything wrong with it. After all, we were boyfriend and girlfriend, right? If I could send photos of my legs, I could send others too. That day, he said he wanted to see photos of me without clothes. How could I agree? Who would be comfortable with such embarrassing photos? Seeing his impatient words, I could only refuse politely. For the first time, his attitude towards me turned cold. “Other people’s girlfriends are by their side, but my girlfriend is so far away from me.” “I just want to see you, see everything about you, because I love you. But now, I can’t even quench my thirst by looking at plums!” “Linda, if you’re not willing to agree to even this, I’m starting to doubt if you really love me.” I looked at his words and fell into deep thought. Do I have to send such revealing photos just because I love him? I still refused. He didn’t answer. For a whole day, he didn’t send me a single message. I had already gotten used to his companionship. Without his messages, my life returned to its previous lonely state. I seemed out of place in this world, lonely in a corner. I couldn’t help but reach out to him first. “Are you there? What have you been doing today? Why haven’t you replied to my messages?” “Are you very busy? I miss you a little.” “When you don’t reply, I feel like the whole world has lost its color.” I didn’t even understand how these cheesy words came from my fingertips.

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“I don’t have one,” I replied, leaving the host momentarily speechless. Soren, standing nearby, suddenly spoke up. “Is what’s written on the sign your wish?” After a brief pause, Soren spoke again: “I’m willing.” Instantly, the venue erupted in thunderous screams. Oh right, I forgot. The sign I was holding said, “Soren, will you be my boyfriend?” My name is Sunny, and I’ve known Soren since childhood because he’s my brother’s best friend. There’s only a three-year age gap between us, but it always felt like we were worlds apart. When I started middle school, he was a sophomore in high school. When I became a high school freshman, he was starting college. I worked incredibly hard to get into his university, thinking we could finally be together. But by then, Soren had become a superstar, and I could no longer catch up to him. From that point on, I could only admire him from afar. The first time I met Soren, I was very young. All I knew was that my brother had an incredibly handsome classmate, so I always loved tagging along behind them, grinning like an idiot. I’ve always been drawn to good-looking people, even as a child. “Oliver, are you going to play basketball? I want to go too.” “Oliver, are you going out? Can you take me with you?” “Oliver, let me come along.” “Oliver, Oliver, Oliver…” Oliver, now in middle school, was thoroughly annoyed by his little tagalong sister. But he had no choice. If he didn’t take me along, he wouldn’t get any allowance. And when I went out with my brother, nine times out of ten, we’d see Soren. Gradually, Soren and I became more familiar, sometimes even meeting up without my brother around. Later, we ended up at the same school, though I was in middle school and Soren was in high school. But even in the middle school section, there were always stories about Soren. After all, someone handsome and smart is popular anywhere. “Sunny, there’s a basketball game in the high school section later. Will you come watch with me?” my desk mate whispered while the teacher wasn’t looking. “I heard your brother and Soren are playing too. You can go cheer for your brother.” Yeah, right. As if I’d go cheer for Oliver. Of course I was going to watch Soren. We skipped a study hall period and rushed over. By the time we arrived, the game was already heating up, and it looked like there was some friction between the two sides. They had the referee sandwiched between them. At that hot-blooded age, neither side was willing to back down. It looked like a fight was about to break out. I saw someone push Soren, and my anger instantly flared up. I jumped up from my seat, grabbed a plastic chair from the side of the court, and charged over. “Don’t you dare bully my brother! I won’t let you get away with this!” They were probably startled by my forceful voice and all turned to look at me. My chair didn’t hit anyone. Instead, halfway there, I tripped over my own feet and fell spectacularly in the middle of the court, with the chair shattering beneath me. Back then, the term “social suicide” didn’t exist yet. I just wanted to find a hole to crawl into. It was so embarrassing. Soren was the first to rush to my side, seeing that I was still lying on the ground. He scooped me up and ran straight to the infirmary. Later, his team lost the game because two of their key players were missing, staying with me in the infirmary instead. “What were you thinking? You’re just a girl, how could you be so reckless as to try and fight high school boys?” My brother scolded me, still shaken by the incident. “I saw them about to hit you. You’re my brother, how could I just stand by and watch?” I said, not very convincingly. I was afraid he’d figure out it was because of Soren and beat me up. “You’ve got guts, I’ll give you that.” Soren patted my head. “But next time, leave the fighting to your big brothers, okay?” Although my brother scolded me, he was touched that I stood up for him, and it made him look good. The opponents who nearly got into a fight on the court now envied him for having such a pretty and brave little sister. So as a reward, my brother gave me all of his allowance. I immediately took the money and secretly dragged Soren to the mall for a big meal. “Why hasn’t your brother arrived yet? Maybe you should call and hurry him up.” “Oh, my brother just texted me. He said something came up and he can’t make it.” I kept my head down, looking at the menu, not daring to meet Soren’s eyes. I felt guilty. At this moment, my brother was probably at home eating instant noodles alone. “Soren, have you ever dated anyone? Let me tell you, high school is crucial. You need to focus on your studies and not get distracted by relationships.” After starting middle school, I stopped calling Soren “big brother.” I had my own reasons – I didn’t want him to see me as a little sister. Soren didn’t seem to mind this change. He looked at me without saying anything, just smiling. I plowed on, explaining, “That’s what my mom tells my brother at home. Since you two are so close, I naturally wanted to pass the message on to you.” “Well, you can tell your mom that I won’t be dating early.” I quickly agreed, my mood greatly improved. The food on my plate suddenly tasted even better. In the end, Soren secretly paid the bill, telling me to keep the money to buy something I liked. After junior year of high school, my brother and Soren became even busier. They were either in class or doing practice tests. Following my mom’s instructions, I went to deliver something to my brother. At the stairway corner, I saw the familiar figure of Soren, but there was a pretty girl standing across from him. I didn’t dare get closer, so I couldn’t hear what they were saying. In the end, Soren accepted something the girl handed him, a smile on his face. I was stunned. It wasn’t like I’d never seen girls confess to Soren before. But he always rejected them coolly, never accepting anything from them. I felt a sense of unease. I secretly took a photo and then turned to leave. After a night of internal struggle, I anonymously sent the photo to their homeroom teacher. In the crucial final year of high school, how could they afford any distractions? I was doing the right thing. That day in class, I was distracted. As soon as school ended, I rushed home, wanting to ask my brother about it. But when I got home, my parents and brother were all there. High school seniors had evening self-study sessions. “Oliver, did you skip class?” “Your brother was caught dating. Your dad and I just got back from the school,” my mom said. Hmph, dating as a team, huh? “I’m not dating! That girl was chasing after me, but I don’t like her,” my brother explained, exhausted. “I can’t believe someone took a photo and reported it. If I find out who it was, I’ll beat them to a pulp.” I suddenly felt a chill down my spine and quietly slipped from the living room to my bedroom. Oh no, I reported on my own brother. What should I do? The next day, I saw Soren in the cafeteria. “Well, well, look who learned how to tattle,” Soren said as he sat down across from me. “I didn’t know it was my brother,” I mumbled. “So it would have been okay if it was me? And here I thought I’d been so good to you,” he teased. “Don’t worry, I won’t tell your brother. This can be our little secret.” Soren held out his pinky, as if to make a pinky promise. I was confused. “How did you know it was me? I sent it anonymously.” Soren smiled. “I had a hunch, but now I’m sure.” shift Middle schoolers are no match for high schoolers after all. My brother and Soren both got into top universities. I started high school, and the intense study atmosphere took some getting used to. Especially math and physics – I was getting worse and worse. My mom got worried and started finding tutors for me. Although I resisted, I didn’t dare go against my mother. On the first day of summer vacation, I stumbled out of bed with messy hair to find Soren sitting in our living room. It had been half a year since I’d seen him. He seemed even more handsome. “Soren, has my brother started dating anyone? He never tells me anything.” “No,” Soren replied, half-focused on the practice papers in front of him. “What about you?” I stared at him nervously, afraid of hearing an answer I didn’t want. Soren put down the papers and looked at me. “No.” I secretly rejoiced and pressed on, “So what are your requirements for a girlfriend?” “Just being of legal age.” “Anything else?” “Nope.” “That’s it? So simple?” I asked, incredulous. “Well, it’s not that simple.” Soren tapped the papers on the table, gesturing for me to start working. “Huh?” I didn’t quite catch that, but Soren didn’t elaborate further. Just one requirement, and I still didn’t meet it. The age part I couldn’t change, but everything else I could work on. Two more years. For the first time, I felt like time was passing so slowly. Soren tutored me in math and physics for a month, and also cooked for me and my hopeless brother. “Oliver, you’re so lazy. You’ll never find a girlfriend like this.” “Soren is hardworking, and he doesn’t have a girlfriend either.” Ugh, he had a point. I hoped Soren would continue not finding one. Soren’s tutoring was very effective. I got into the same university as them and finally welcomed my long-awaited 18th birthday. The long-held secret crush could finally emerge from behind the clouds and see the sun. I wanted to tell Soren, “I like you. I’ve liked you for a very, very long time.” But when I saw Soren again, he had become a popular singer. His latest single, which he wrote and composed himself, was playing online. As soon as it was released, it topped the charts on all major music platforms. With his superior singing skills and stunningly good looks, he attracted countless fans. Everyone said he was the star of tomorrow, a future superstar. I used to think that once I got to college, I’d have a chance. Now I realized that college wasn’t the beginning, but the end. I could never catch up to Soren again. A secret crush has always been one person’s own tumultuous battle. During the New Year holiday, my brother took me out for a meal, and we saw Soren after a long time. He was very busy, with activities all over the country, and didn’t have much time to keep in touch with my brother either. “Soren, long time no see.” I started calling him “Soren” again, as a reminder to myself. Soren heard my change in address and his hand, which was about to pat my head, stopped midair. “Sunny, have you adjusted to college life?” “It’s pretty good. The club activities are fun, and my classmates are easy to get along with.” “So, have you started dating anyone? You’re 18 now, you can date.” It used to be me asking Soren these questions. Now the tables had turned. “Yes, a senior at my school.” I kept my head down, eating from my bowl. I was afraid if I looked up, he’d realize I was lying. I wasn’t sure why I lied. Perhaps it was to completely cut off my own unrealistic fantasies. A hopeless crush should be nipped in the bud. On the way back, my brother seemed to want to say something several times but held back. He didn’t say it, and I didn’t ask. Soren became increasingly famous, winning more and more awards. Fewer and fewer people mocked him for relying on his looks. My roommate was his die-hard fan, with a complete collection of merchandise, posters, and albums. “Sunny, there’s an event with Soren this weekend. Come with me, please?” “I’m not going. I don’t like him.” “Oh, come on. Your phone is full of his songs, and every time I talk about Soren in the dorm, you perk up and listen.” I looked at my other roommates, and they all nodded in agreement. “There’s no shame in liking Soren. No need to hide it. Besides, he’s kind of our senior from the same school.” I had turned my love for Soren into a fan’s admiration for their idol, but I didn’t dare follow him openly, always carefully keeping tabs on him. One day, I had just returned from the cafeteria when I heard Lily talking in the dorm, “I can’t believe even someone like Soren would have unrequited love. The girl he’s pining for must be some legendary figure.” I opened my phone and saw the trending topic: “Soren – Unrequited Love – Exploded” It was a video clip of Soren being interviewed. Host: “People say many of your songs are about unrequited love. Is that true?” “Yes, it is.” “Is that because you’ve experienced it yourself?” “Yes.” “When did you start liking this person?” “A very long time ago.” “Do you still like them now?” Soren remained silent for a long time, never answering, and the video ended. That night, I tossed and turned in bed, my mind full of Soren’s interview. A very long time ago – that must mean during school. Thinking back, the people closest to him in school, besides my brother, were me. Surely Soren couldn’t have a crush on my brother, right? I opened SnapChat, wanting to ask Soren, but I never dared to. “Soren’s fan meeting is at the Cultural Center, just three subway stops from our school. It’s so close. Please go for me.” Lily tugged at my arm, begging. “Sunny, you’ve been secretly liking Soren for so long. Don’t miss this chance to see your idol in person. Trust me, once you see him with your own eyes, you’ll definitely fall in love with Soren.” I wanted to argue, but I couldn’t find a reason. Tickets for Soren’s fan meeting were in high demand. Lily had stayed up for three nights to snag a seat in the back corner. But when the day came, something urgent came up related to graduation. No matter how much of a fan she was, she couldn’t let it affect her future. She was reluctant to give up the ticket and asked me to go in her place, maybe even get a handshake or a hug. She said if I did, it would be like she got to hug Soren too. She didn’t know that if I went, there was no way I’d be hugging Soren. On the day of the event, it was incredibly crowded. There were even many fans without tickets gathered outside. I finally found my seat and immediately texted Lily to let her know I was there. “Girl, take out the sign and hold it up!” “No way.” “You have to! I had it specially blessed online. It cost me $50.” “Even if you spent $500, Soren still wouldn’t be your boyfriend.” “The fortune teller said the blessing wasn’t just for Soren, but for someone like Soren too.” That’s quite a broad blessing. “Sunny, do you really want to crush my dreams of love?” With no other choice, I reluctantly held up the sign. I even video called Lily to prove I was doing it. “Don’t think you can put it down right after. This fan meeting is being livestreamed. I’ll watch the replay when I’m done with my work, and if you didn’t hold it up, we’re through.” Great, my last escape route was blocked. At least it wasn’t too embarrassing. Lily’s sign was relatively tame compared to some of the others I saw in the crowd. After Soren sang a few songs, it was time for fan interaction. Selected fans could have a small wish granted on the spot. Usually, it was for an autographed photo or a picture together. “Soren, can I have a hug?” “I’m sorry, but we can shake hands.” Soren seemed to never hug female fans. Since his debut, he had never had any rumors or scandals. Could it be that Soren really liked my brother? “Number 3714, where is this fan?” It wasn’t until the girl next to me nudged me that I realized I had been picked. “What is this fan’s wish?” “I don’t have one,” I replied, leaving the host momentarily speechless. Soren, standing nearby, suddenly spoke up. “Is what’s written on the sign your wish?” After a brief pause, Soren spoke again: “I’m willing.” Instantly, the venue erupted in thunderous screams. Oh right, I forgot. The sign I was holding said, “Soren, will you be my boyfriend?” In an instant, I became the center of attention at the venue. The lights and cameras were all focused on me. I could clearly feel my heart pounding and my cheeks burning. Thankfully, not wanting to be recognized by Soren, I had worn a hat and mask. When I finally came to my senses, under everyone’s gaze, I grabbed my things and fled through the back door. But as soon as I got out, I ran into Soren’s assistant. “This is Soren’s dressing room. The event should be over in about an hour and a half.”

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For seven years with the boss, by day I was his meticulous Miss Turner, handling every detail, and by night I was his obedient and mysterious little girlfriend. Until just now, the boss calmly said, “I won’t be coming tomorrow.” “No need to try to keep me, this house is yours, as compensation for these seven years…” Me: “Great!” “…Miss Turner, after I leave I won’t be coming back!” Me: “Have a safe trip!” Boss: “???” 0 The day before we broke up, Harrison bought me a sexy nightgown. I looked at his deep eyes and his face full of restraint, and suddenly laughed. I never thought that this man, who had always been as serious as an old fogey, would want to play this game on our last day together. I excitedly put on the nightgown, and then, in the heat of the moment, I heard him call out, “Alina.” No longer “Miss Turner,” but Alina. The year I got together with Harrison, I had just graduated from college. During the day, I was his meticulous Miss Turner, and at night, I was his obedient and mysterious girlfriend. Except for Harrison’s senior assistant, no one knew – his girlfriend. This went on for seven years. From when I was twenty-two to twenty-nine, even Emily, who had always been by Harrison’s side, said that if she were me, she would have taken the initiative to strive for a higher position long ago! After all, for so many years, I was the only woman by Harrison’s side. Not only was I good-looking, but I was also careful and serious at work. In terms of appearance and work ability, Harrison and I were a perfect match. Emily spoke with envy on her face, and even I almost had the illusion that I might be able to rise to the position of CEO’s wife. Until just now, the man I had accompanied for seven full years looked at me and said calmly, “Miss Turner, I won’t be coming tomorrow.” The man spoke indifferently, but when he looked at me, there seemed to be a hint of reluctance in his eyes? Reluctance? Haha! When I confirmed that I had indeed seen this emotion in the man’s eyes, I only found it laughable. Because, I had been by this man’s side for seven years. Even if he were a hard stone, his heart should have been warmed by now. But in the end, whether in public or private, the man’s address to me was always just “Miss Turner.” I lowered my eyes and didn’t speak. When I raised my head again, I looked as if I was very sad, quietly waiting for Harrison’s explanation. Sure enough, Harrison’s next words came. “I’m going to have a dinner date with the daughter of the Lee Group tomorrow evening.” “I’ll leave this apartment to you, as compensation for these seven years.” Harrison paused and said, “Miss Turner, I hope you won’t make any unnecessary attempts to keep me.” This apartment Harrison gave me was worth a fortune in the expensive city center! “Okay!” Before Harrison could finish speaking, I looked straight into his eyes and replied. Was there a hint of eagerness in my tone? No! I didn’t! I thought to myself, wondering if I had been too obvious, and immediately lowered my head again, squeezing out two tears before raising my head. I was about to display my superb acting skills as I had done day and night for these seven years. As a result, Harrison placed the expensive-looking bag that Emily had just brought in front of me. The next second. That very sexy nightgown, with so little fabric that even I, a woman, had to gasp, was presented before my eyes. I looked up in confusion. The man’s expression was as serious as ever, but when he met my overly shocked gaze, even that handsome face that seemed as beautiful as a deity couldn’t help but turn slightly. Then, Harrison’s earlobes, red as if they could drip blood, suddenly came into view. 0

Me: “…” Damn! The old fogey could actually blush? This is too tempting! And I happen to be someone who can’t resist the temptation of beauty! I looked at his deep eyes, his face full of restraint, sitting upright, with the buttons of his white shirt buttoned up to the top. I stroked my chin, my red lips curled slightly, and the interest in my eyes was unmistakable. You should know that in the seven years I’ve been with Harrison, he has always been extremely serious. Even when doing indescribable things, he was still rigorous, the same place, time, and position for seven years, never changing… But I never thought that on our last day together, Harrison would have such an unreasonable yet irresistible request? I got excited. Smiling, I changed into the nightgown right in front of Harrison, then sat on his lap… The light in Harrison’s eyes flickered, and his tall body couldn’t help but stiffen. “Don’t panic, don’t panic.” While taking the initiative, I was worried that Harrison couldn’t bear it and would run away halfway, disturbing my mood. So I leaned forward and whispered in Harrison’s ear, comforting him intimately. Everything was as natural as it had been for the past seven years, but perhaps because it was the last time, towards the end, this jerk Harrison seemed unwilling to maintain his old fogey image anymore, and when he got worked up, he actually had some new tricks… Then, in the heat of the moment, I heard him call out, “Alina.” This was the first time. No longer Miss Turner, but Alina. But so what? The jerk would still leave after putting his pants back on. And I’ve always liked to strike first. I wanted to turn my back on Harrison before he disowned me! I opened my eyes, outside the window, it was bright daylight. I sighed slightly, then kicked the man lying beside me off the bed. Harrison seemed a bit dazed when he was kicked off, after all, as a big CEO, this was probably the first time he had been kicked off the bed by a woman! I narrowed my eyes, spread my hands, and smiled innocently, “Sorry, Mr. Ford, from now on, this apartment, including everything in it, is mine. Of course, that includes this bed.” After I finished speaking, I made a “please” gesture. The meaning was clear. Harrison’s eye twitched, and his eyes turned cold. For the first time, I didn’t indulge him and instead stubbornly stared back at him without fear. The next second, Harrison approached me. There was undisguised gloom in his eyes. Evidently, he was in an extremely angry state. Why was he angry? I looked at him, full of confusion. However, fortunately, his CEO demeanor was still intact. He put on his clothes and returned to his usual restrained, unapproachable appearance. Looking very proper. Of course, this time I wasn’t fooled by his old fogey appearance. I just quietly stood by his side, urging him to leave my home as soon as possible. Harrison seemed to be extremely angry. He had almost walked out the door when he suddenly turned back, looked down at me, his expression cold and his tone indifferent, looking just like an abandoned wife, “Miss Turner, after I leave, I won’t come back again.” Harrison paused and continued, “Miss Turner, don’t you have anything else you want to say?” 0

Me: “… Have a safe trip?” Harrison’s face turned colder. I pushed Harrison out with my hand. With a bang, I closed the door. As Harrison’s most attentive secretary, I started work at seven every morning, preparing his daily work schedule. Under the work schedule I had recorded yesterday, I expressionlessly added another item: [8:00 PM, Harrison to have dinner with the daughter of the Lee Group.] I set the address for Harrison at a high-end restaurant he often went to, in his exclusive VVVIP room, and specially instructed the restaurant manager that Mr. Ford was going on a date, so the dinner must be prepared exquisitely, romantically, and with a good atmosphere. When the restaurant manager heard me say this, she was very excited and gossipy. After all, as our old partner, she naturally knew that this was the first time in so many years that Harrison was going on a date with a girl, and it was a candlelit dinner, definitely not ordinary! Moreover, Harrison was thirty-five this year, and it was time for him to get married. This girl might be the future Mrs. Ford. Of course, everything had to be prepared perfectly. The restaurant manager gave me a knowing look. I returned an equally excited and gossipy look to the restaurant manager, basically implying that if things went well, she would be well rewarded. The restaurant manager became even more eager. And I quickly got into work, as diligent as ever. As if nothing had happened, but this time, when the pink roses appeared on the desk again, I didn’t throw them into the trash can as I had done this past year. Instead, I unwrapped its delicate packaging. I emptied out the super large capacity red mug I usually used for drinking water, and filled it halfway with water. During lunch break, I took out scissors and leisurely trimmed this bunch of pink roses and put them in. I placed it on the desk. Although I was already twenty-nine years old, for me, it was just the right age to be charming and graceful. Perhaps because of the pursuit over these seven years, in order not to embarrass Harrison and to become a woman that could satisfy Harrison, I had always forced myself to meet Harrison’s requirements in terms of both appearance and inner self. Diligent during work hours, even more diligent outside of work hours. In the time when Harrison wasn’t around, I worked on both my external and internal qualities, looking for suitable makeup, hairstyles, and outfit combinations, practicing foreign languages as if squeezing water from a sponge, settling down to understand the structure of the Ford Group, how important departments operate, the preferences of important clients, and the reasons why the Ford Group could continue to be a very competitive company in the capital, etc. I strived to be well-informed about everything, big or small. As a result, even though I was now twenty-nine years old, perhaps because of my demeanor, I could easily become the object of pursuit by partners when I went on a business trip with Harrison. It wasn’t surprising to receive a few bouquets of flowers, but what was worth noting was that this mysterious flower sender who sent me pink roses persisted in sending them for a year, even after I had repeatedly expressed to my colleagues that I didn’t want to accept flowers from strangers anymore. And they could appear on my desk day after day, rain or shine. This was very intriguing. At six in the afternoon, Harrison finished his meeting. I was about to remind Harrison that he should prepare for his date with Miss Lee. As Harrison’s attentive secretary, I had specially asked a friend to find out Miss Lee’s preferences, just like when Harrison was going to meet important clients, and I had prepared an expensive diamond necklace for Miss Lee. 0

To ensure the success of Harrison’s blind date. As a result, just as I was about to enter the office, I saw Emily walking out of the office. Emily looked at me, hesitating, but finally spoke, “Miss Turner, Mr. Ford said he has already prepared a gift for Miss Lee, you don’t need to prepare one. Also, Mr. Ford told me to tell you that you don’t need to accompany him today, you can get off work.” Is this the legendary happiness of getting off work? Faced with this sudden surprise, I was overjoyed and at a loss. Emily looked at me again and sighed heavily, saying very sadly, “Miss Turner, don’t be too heartbroken.” Me: “…Emily, thank you for your concern, I’m fine.” I’m not heartbroken at all! I explained seriously word by word, but after explaining, Emily seemed to feel even more sorry for me. Her usually small eyes widened with sympathy: “Miss Turner, don’t pretend to be strong anymore!” Me: “…” After Emily finished speaking, as if thinking of something, she looked around and pulled me to a corner, whispering, “But, Miss Turner, although you and Mr. Ford aren’t meant to be, when God closes a door, he opens a window…” Emily said, and then sneakily glanced at me again, as if making some major decision, and said, “I know a very nice man, whose appearance and financial conditions are not inferior to Mr. Ford’s. Do you want to meet him?” Ah, this… Emily’s eyes were so bright! Her usually meticulous tone was filled with three parts expectation and seven parts excitement! My intuition told me that the man Emily wanted to introduce must be extraordinary! Otherwise, Emily, who was used to seeing big scenes, wouldn’t be so excited! I blinked my eyes! I was trying my best to control myself! I swear I wanted to refuse! But alas… After Emily finished speaking, she enlarged the photo of the date she wanted to introduce to me and put it right in front of my eyes! The man in the photo was mature yet handsome! With a firm jawline, fair skin, even fairer than mine! His lips were naturally red! Most importantly, his eyes were the almond-shaped eyes I liked the most! Oh my! How could I refuse? I gritted my teeth, wanting to refuse… my little brain occupied by beauty was about to stop working: “Well, Emily, I just broke up less than nineteen hours ago, isn’t it inappropriate to date such a handsome man so quickly…” Emily had a look of “you’re still very sad and can’t forget your ex-boyfriend” on her face, and continued to emphasize, “He’s successful in his career, the CEO of the company next door.” “This…” “He’s in good shape, unlike our Mr. Ford, he works out two hours every day!” Why are you dragging others down? “Six-pack abs!” “!” “Young… only twenty-six years old, almost a generation younger than Mr. Ford!” “!!” I looked at Emily, touched, and bowed to her on the spot: “…Then I’ll trouble you, Emily!” It’s really not that my willpower isn’t strong! It’s just that Emily gave too much! After making sure that I had completed today’s work perfectly and smoothly, I immediately went home to get ready, put on very delicate makeup, and wore a crimson long dress that I really liked but never had the chance to wear.

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My Boyfriend’s first love was crying uncontrollably. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have come between you two. I should be the one to leave,” said my boyfriend’s first love, the famous actress, as she sobbed. My boyfriend pointed at me and scolded me for being too harsh. He immediately left me behind to chase after her. Well, well, with acting skills like that, she calls herself an award-winning actress? I immediately called the billionaire, “Didn’t you say you wanted to marry me? Let’s get the marriage license tomorrow.” That afternoon, Caspian took me to the civil affairs bureau. When we came out again, I, Zinnia, was now a married woman. Caspian tapped the marriage certificate in his palm, his expression smug and irritating, completely overshadowing his handsomeness. “Didn’t you say you’d never marry me in this lifetime, and that if you married me, you’d be a dog?” I nodded, “That’s right, I married you, so you’re the dog.” “You…” Caspian gritted his teeth, “Zinnia, that mouth of yours is really…” “Really what? Asking for a beating?” I tilted my head slightly, my expression probably a bit provocative, “You want to hit me?” Caspian suddenly laughed and slowly approached me, looking mischievous in every way. Then I heard him say “asking for a kiss” before he grabbed the back of my head and kissed me. “!!” I pushed him away and wiped my mouth vigorously, “Caspian, what are you doing?” Caspian looked very displeased, “We’re married now, what’s wrong with me kissing you? Not only am I going to kiss you, but you’ll have to consummate the marriage with me tonight.” “…” “I’ve been waiting for this day, Zinnia. Just you wait, I’ll show you how I’ll deal with you tonight.” Caspian was arrogant and domineering. After saying that, he got in the car and left, even lowering the window to wave at me, his expression was really… He’s just an annoying jerk. How did he become the richest man in the country? I put away the marriage certificate and prepared to return to the company. Henry called, telling me, “Zinnia, let’s break up.” Hadn’t we already broken up? Why bother calling to tell me? When he scolded me and abandoned me for his first love, we had already broken up. I pursed my lips in annoyance, “You’re the most troublesome of the lot.” Henry: “…” I hung up the phone and suddenly remembered something… Damn it, Caspian brought me here, and now he’s driven off, how am I supposed to get back? Jerk! I called a ride-share and returned to the company. My dad saw me and looked me up and down several times, “Who’s this? I don’t recognize you. Who are you looking for?” “…” I went straight to the point, “Dad, I broke up with Henry, and also, I got married to Caspian.” My dad’s face immediately lit up with joy, showing a kind fatherly smile, “Isn’t this my precious daughter!” “…” See, even my dad has better acting skills than Henry’s first love, a hundred expressions in one second. My dad suddenly snorted coldly, “How did you break up? I thought you two were very lovey-dovey? I told you not to date him, but you wouldn’t listen.” “That’s all because you kept pushing me to marry Caspian.” If it weren’t for my parents pressuring me so much about marriage, I wouldn’t have been so rebellious and grabbed the first decent guy I saw to date, only to end up being cheated on. Caspian isn’t a good guy either, he has quite a few women outside too, don’t think I don’t know. Marrying Caspian was just a spur of the moment decision out of anger, now that I think about it, I regret it a little. No, I need to make things clear with him. “So you’ve come back to take over the company? Haha, that’s great, your mom and I can finally be free.” My dad jumped up and rushed out, his legs surprisingly agile. I quickly grabbed his arm, “Don’t go, Dad! Where are you going?” “To find your mom, of course. She wants to go to a small island for a couple of days. She’s always complaining that I don’t accompany her. Now that you’re back, I can finally go back and be filial to your mom.” Perhaps realizing his words sounded too submissive, my dad coughed lightly and changed his tune: “Compensate, it’s all because of you. You’re never home, I don’t even have time to accompany your mom.” “…”

“Dad, you probably can’t spend all your time with mom just yet. I didn’t plan on taking over the company.” “Look at you… Alright, you don’t need to come back either. Every time you come back, you just make me angry. Go on, get out.” I was kicked out of my dad’s office. So he doesn’t want this unexpected child anymore? Caspian’s SnapChat message came in at this time, reminding me, [Don’t forget to come back tonight for our wedding night.] “…” I gritted my teeth, [Would it kill you to be a bit more subtle?] Caspian’s voice message came right after, “This isn’t subtle enough? I haven’t even said to come back and sleep with me yet.” My dad’s secretary came towards me, looking at me with an ambiguous gaze, “Miss.” “…” I think I should consider living on another planet. Caspian is such a big mouth. He’s such a big shot billionaire, how come he doesn’t have any of the aura of a tycoon? Always fooling around like a playboy, it’s so annoying! Caspian sent me another address, which is where he’s living now. He also said to come back early, we’ll have dinner together tonight to celebrate. What’s there to celebrate? Is he so happy about marrying me? Well, my family is also rich and powerful, and he knows I definitely won’t bother to manage him, of course he’s happy. … At around seven, I arrived at Caspian’s apartment. As soon as I entered, the luxurious decor and flamboyant atmosphere hit me in the face. Caspian was sitting on the sofa, legs crossed casually, wearing a white T-shirt and orange floral shorts, holding a glass of red wine. “You’re back.” “…” I walked over, “Didn’t you say we were going to eat? Where’s the food? I’m hungry.” Caspian pointed to the kitchen, “It’s being prepared. Sit.” He patted the spot next to him. As soon as I sat down, he leaned in close. I leaned away, “Stay away from me, or you might get hit.” “Why did you suddenly decide to marry me? What about that unreliable boyfriend of yours?” Caspian looked like a curious puppy. He’s the unreliable one. Ahem, I’m not defending Henry. Henry’s cheating can’t be described as merely unreliable, it’s downright despicable. I cleared my throat quietly, “Because… well…” “Alright, you don’t need to say anymore.” Caspian held up his hand. Just when I thought he was being understanding for once and not forcing me to do something I didn’t like, he came out with… “You got dumped.” “…” I suspect Caspian’s head has been kicked by the donkeys on the production team more than once, I suspect this more than once. Caspian suddenly had a realization, “Wait, doesn’t that make me your rebound? So I’m your backup plan? Is that it?” “If you don’t want to be the rebound, then let’s get divorced. Besides, aren’t I your rebound too?” He’s acting like he’s the victim here. Caspian nodded, “You’re right, I am quite popular.” “…” Psycho. The person in the kitchen came out at this time to tell us dinner was ready. After eating and resting for half an hour, I did some yoga, and Caspian was beside me trying to learn. He suddenly commented on me, “Zinnia, your flexibility is pretty good.” I kicked at him, “Can’t you be more serious?” Caspian looked a bit wronged, “What’s wrong? How is complimenting you not serious?” He looked genuinely aggrieved, so maybe I misunderstood him. I got up to go upstairs to wash up, and he followed me up like a little tail. Even when I was about to enter the bathroom, he was still following behind. I turned around, and he bumped right into me. “Why did you suddenly stop?” “I’m going to take a shower, why are you following me in?” Caspian scratched his head, “To take a shower together, of course.” I gave him a hard knock on the head, and Caspian yelled out in pain: “Ouch! Zinnia, you’re trying to murder your husband!” “Don’t come in!” Who wants to shower with him? Jerk!

While soaking in the bathtub, I suddenly felt a bit dazed. Am I really married to Caspian now? I had resisted countless times in the past, even saying I’d be a dog if I married him, but now I’ve actually married him. Caspian and I could be considered childhood sweethearts, but this sweetheart of mine was truly unreliable. He liked to bully me since we were kids, either pulling my hair or tattling on me, telling my parents I was dating early, and exposing to my parents that I received love letters… And so on and so forth, I was almost annoyed to death by him! So when my parents wanted me to marry Caspian, I said I’d be a dog if I married him. Caspian immediately stated, “I don’t even like you. I have plenty of girls I’m interested in.” Later, when my parents pressured me too much, I rebelled and went after Henry. I don’t know what kind of madness possessed Caspian, but after he found out I was pursuing Henry, he actually said to me: “Why don’t we just get married? I’ll marry you, and you won’t have to go through all the trouble of chasing someone else. I don’t think you can catch him anyway.” That nasty mouth of his deserved all the beatings I gave him, thinking about it now, he really had it coming. Caspian was urging me to hurry up outside. It seems his big house only has one bathroom, doesn’t it? I got out of the bathtub and only then realized I hadn’t brought any sleepwear in with me. This is my first time here, and I don’t know where to get any. The yoga clothes I wore earlier were ones he found for me, they looked new so I wore them. I wrapped a towel around myself and walked to the door, “Caspian, do you have any new sleepwear?” “You didn’t bring sleepwear in with you?” Caspian’s annoying voice came from outside, “It’s so late, why don’t you just not wear any?” “Are you sick? You don’t wear clothes at night?” “That’s right, I don’t.” I abruptly opened the door, “Go get me some sleepwear quickly!” “Alright, alright, why are you so fierce?” Caspian glanced at me and turned to leave. Halfway there, he suddenly stopped and looked at me, “Zinnia.” “What?” Caspian smiled and said: “You have a great figure, very sexy.” I grabbed a towel from the cabinet and threw it at him, “Get lost!” He’s just a… Pervert! Caspian caught the towel and left, looking very pleased with himself. After a while, he came back with two sets of pajamas and handed one to me. I looked at the ones in his hand, “Didn’t you say you don’t wear any?” “Then I won’t wear any, I’ll take them back.” He said as he turned to leave. I quickly grabbed him back, “Stop fooling around. Let me ask you, where did you get these women’s pajamas? Do you often bring women here?” “How could that be possible? I don’t bring women back here, you can rest assured about that. I bought these new for you today.” Caspian looked very proud, “The size is just right, I can tell just by looking at you. After all, I’ve been looking at you since we were kids…” I kicked him, almost making him unable to have children. “Zinnia, not only are you trying to murder your husband, but you’re also trying to kill our future children, you heartless woman!” Caspian bent over, instantly becoming a member of the crotch-protecting club. “Get lost!” I couldn’t be bothered with him anymore and went in to change. Behind me, Caspian’s annoying voice rang out again, “Zinnia, I saw your underwear just now.” I turned and rushed back, determined to finish him off today! “Ah…” Caspian’s scream echoed throughout the room. Half an hour later, Caspian came out of the bathroom, and I was sitting on the edge of the bed with my arms crossed, “Come here, I have something to tell you.” Caspian came over while drying his hair with a towel, “Go ahead, I’ll agree to anything except not consummating the marriage.” “I’m not talking about that.” I pursed my lips helplessly, “I want to set some ground rules with you. Sit.” I patted the spot beside me. Caspian came over and sat down obediently. After washing his hair, his bangs had fallen down, making him look much more docile, like a little puppy instead of a little brat. Not bad, not bad. I patted Caspian’s head, “Good boy.” “Don’t be disrespectful.” Caspian brushed my hand away. “You’re only one month older than me, why are you acting so mature?” I rolled my eyes and continued with the main topic, “Since we’re married now, I have a few rules I need to tell you first.”

“First, I don’t care how many women you have outside, but you can’t have children with them.” “Second, if you really find someone you like, tell me, and we’ll divorce immediately.” “Third, during our marriage, at least make people believe we’re a loving couple. I don’t want our families’ companies to be affected.” I stated these three rules in one breath, then continued: “Now it’s your turn. What rules do you have? Say them.” “I agree to everything you said. I only have one condition.” Caspian held up one finger, “In our marriage, you can’t get too close to other men.” “That’s natural.” I agreed without even thinking. But wait, that’s not right. “This is a double standard. Can you cut off all ties with other women?” “Of course I can. I can do that in a minute.” Just as Caspian finished speaking, his phone rang. I glanced at his phone screen, the contact was saved as “Baby”. I rolled my eyes dramatically. Caspian answered the phone, made a few noncommittal sounds, then hung up. I sneered, “It’s fine. I said as long as you don’t have children, I don’t care about you.” “What are you talking about?” Caspian casually tossed his phone aside, “Let’s go to sleep.” “…” Forget it, there’s no point talking to him. He won’t even give me a chance to be upset. I turned and crawled into bed, and he followed. “Um… lights on or off?” he asked me. What’s going on? Why do I feel like he’s a bit nervous? It’s making me nervous too. “Turn them off.” Caspian turned off the lights, then pressed down on me and started kissing me. I resisted the urge to push him away, “Do you even know how to kiss? You’re biting me.” “You’re the one who doesn’t know how to kiss.” Caspian coughed lightly, “Zinnia, you’re trembling. Could it be that this is your first time?” “No… of course not.” I took a deep breath, “Don’t tell me it’s your first time?” “How could that be?” Caspian’s tone was quite proud, “I’m very experienced.” … After a night, my conclusion is that Caspian was bluffing. How could someone with such poor skills be experienced? Who is he trying to fool? Caspian was still sleeping, holding me tightly. Just thinking about last night made me angry. I pushed him away and got out of bed. I put on my clothes and went to the bathroom. Suddenly, Caspian’s voice came from behind, “Zinnia, does it hurt?” “It doesn’t hurt.” I gritted my teeth. It hurts like hell, okay? “Zinnia.” Caspian called my name again. Why is he so annoying? “What?” I turned around and glared at him. Caspian pointed with his eyes at the small bloodstain on the bed, “Didn’t you say it wasn’t your first time?” “…” I closed my eyes in frustration. How could I have forgotten about that? Caspian seemed to be in a very good mood. I was just annoyed, so I deliberately tried to upset him, “That’s because your technique is so poor. I’ve never seen anyone with such bad skills. Do you even know what you’re doing? And you call yourself experienced, you’re just bluffing.” The smile on Caspian’s face instantly disappeared… No, the smile didn’t disappear, it just transferred to my face. I hummed a tune as I walked towards the bathroom. Behind me came the sound of Caspian angrily hitting the bed. He shouted at my back: “Zinnia, you just wait. I will… I will…” I laughed and turned back to ask him, “You will what?” Caspian paused for a moment, then suddenly struck a sexy and charming pose on the bed, “I will definitely make you succumb beneath me.” “Are you sick? Pervert!” I gave him a disgusted look and entered the bathroom. “I don’t know who it is, still lying about it being their first time when it clearly was, getting caught red-handed. I was wondering why you wanted the lights off, turns out you were just shy…” I grabbed another towel and went out, rubbing it up and threw it at Caspian’s face.

I received a call from Lily, she wanted to meet me. Lily is Henry’s first love. Henry and I have already broken up, why does she still want to see me? Only after meeting did I realize that she just wanted to show off her victory to me. “Zinnia, you should actually thank me. If I had gone back to find Henry earlier, he would have been mine long ago. You wouldn’t have had the chance to date him at all.” Looking at Lily’s smug face, I found it amusing. “Is Henry some kind of trophy to be shown off in your eyes?” I sneered, “You’re so inexperienced, tsk tsk, I almost feel sorry for you. How about this, I’ll introduce you to a couple of better guys, what do you say?” Lily chuckled lightly, “You don’t have to do that. We’re both women, I understand how you’re feeling right now…” “Don’t say you’re a woman, you’re really giving women a bad name.” I smiled as I interrupted her words, “But I understand. I advise you to read more books and improve yourself.” Lily’s phone suddenly rang. She answered it right in front of me, “Hello, Blue Planet? Movie or TV series? Okay, I’ll be right there.” She hung up the phone and looked at me, “Ms. Chen, I have to go now. I have an audition. By the way, order whatever you want, it’s on me.” I smiled and said, “Thank you.” After seeing Lily off, I immediately returned to the company. “Dad, give me some money. I want to invest in a few IPs.” “That has to come from my own account. Ask your mom to transfer it to you.” My dad said, then added: “You should practice investing and such now.” “Got it, thanks Dad!” … Soon I contacted the crew of “Blue Planet”, expressing my intention to invest. Of course they were willing. I put in 200 million, becoming the biggest investor, which means I have the final say on this show. I also got news that Lily had already gone for the audition, and it was for the female lead. She had a very high chance of being selected. But with just one word from me, she would be immediately eliminated. However, I didn’t do that. I let her pass the first few rounds of auditions. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be fun. Actually, I hadn’t planned to do anything to her originally. But being a mistress was one thing, she shouldn’t have come to show off to me. If I don’t teach her a lesson, wouldn’t I have lived these twenty-some years in vain? Since that’s the case, I won’t let Henry off either. He should really thank his precious first love. I waited until the final round of auditions before I showed up. The audition location was in a hotel. I was about to enter the elevator when someone pulled me out. “Didn’t you see our Miss Brown was about to take the elevator?” I looked up and saw Lily walk into the elevator. She gave me a proud and challenging look. Just as the elevator doors were about to close, she spoke up: “Oh, Zinnia, it’s you. Why don’t you come up too?” The assistant beside her, acting high and mighty, said, “Who does she think she is? How could she ride in the same elevator as you, Lily?” Lily just smiled without saying anything more. The elevator doors closed. I shook my head with a smile. My phone rang at this moment. It was Caspian calling. “You want to invest in a movie? Why didn’t you tell me? I have a film company, I can give it to you if you want.” I was a bit surprised, “Why are you being so nice and generous today?” “Zinnia, you ungrateful wretch. When have I ever not been generous to you? Tell me!” I thought about it, and it was true. Although Caspian is a terrible person, from childhood until now, on my birthdays or holidays, the gifts he gave me were always extravagant. Okay, I wronged him then. “We’ll talk about it when I get back tonight. I’m at the audition location now, selecting actors.” I hung up the phone, and the elevator came down. I got in. For the final round of auditions for the female lead, there were only three actresses left, with Lily being the first one. I sent a message to the casting director to move Lily to the last spot. So when I came out of the elevator, I saw Lily storming out of the audition room. “What’s going on? How could they put me last? If the director takes a liking to someone else first, won’t I lose my chance? It’s already the final round, I must get this role. Quick, call Chen!” Her arrogant little assistant was still flattering her, “Don’t worry, Lily. Those two’s acting skills are no match for yours. Being last is actually better. After the director sees their terrible acting, he’ll definitely be impressed when he sees you. He’ll make his decision on the spot!” I have to say, this little assistant’s flattery skills are quite impressive. It’s partly thanks to her that Lily, with such poor acting skills, is still so confident… The other half of the credit goes to the other staff around Lily who praise her day after day, leading to her current blind confidence and arrogance. Lily looked up and saw me. Her little assistant, ever the bootlicker, immediately came over, “Why are you still lurking around? This is not a place for you to be. Get lost quickly!” I hadn’t even dealt with Lily yet, but this arrogant little assistant caught my interest. “Little girl, I advise you to watch your mouth and leave yourself a way out. Don’t you understand the principle of not burning all your bridges?” The little assistant rolled her eyes dramatically, “Even lowly people can talk about principles now. Fan behavior has its limits. I don’t care who your idol is, but this is the audition area for the crew, not a place for you to chase stars. Get out, get out, get out quickly!” “Very well, I’ll leave then. But I’m afraid you’ll be begging me to come back later.” I smiled and turned to enter the elevator. I booked a room on the top floor and waited there. The producer sent me updates on the situation and clips of the auditions. One of the actresses named Zoe caught my eye. Her eyes were indeed quite good. I had already made up my mind. Soon it was Lily’s turn to audition. The casting director told Lily, “Not everyone is here yet. Let’s end today’s auditions here.” I was on a video call with the casting director. On the phone screen, I saw Lily’s expression freeze, her displeased look barely contained. “But I’m all prepared. Weren’t the other two able to audition when not everyone was here?” “The investor has already seen the audition clips of the other two. Originally, the investor had high hopes for your acting skills and wanted to come see you perform in person, but was stopped and chased away halfway here.” “Chased away? How could they be chased away? Where are they now? I’ll go find them right away.” Lily was extremely anxious. “She’s very angry now. Even if you go beg her, she won’t come. I’m afraid your audition is probably off.” The casting director sighed. Lily was even more regretful, “That’s not possible. I’m going to find her now. I’ll definitely impress her with my acting skills.” The casting director nodded, “Alright then, go find her.” He then gave Lily my room number. I ended the video call. After a while, there was a knock on the door. Here she comes. The knocking continued. I slowly went to open the door. When Lily saw it was me, she was naturally shocked. “Zinnia, it’s you again?” “I should be the one asking you that. What are you doing here?” I asked coldly with a sneer. Lily paused, looked at the room number, and after confirming several times, she looked at me in disbelief, “You… you’re here. Is there anyone else inside?” I raised an eyebrow, “Just me.” Lily turned around and slapped her assistant hard across the face. The assistant was stunned. Lily, however, turned back very calmly and gave me a slight smile. She spoke as if nothing had happened, “Miss White, if you’re still not satisfied, you can hit me yourself. I won’t stop you.” The assistant finally reacted and knelt down, “Miss White, I was wrong. I was blind and didn’t recognize you. Please forgive me this once, you’re a big person who doesn’t hold grudges against small people.” I gave her a chance, but she didn’t know how to take it. She can’t blame me now. Seeing that I wasn’t softening, Lily said again, “I will blacklist her from the entire industry. Is that enough?” I was very dissatisfied with her attitude. The assistant was just being arrogant because of her backing. How could she still try to distance herself? “Miss White, please give me a chance to live. I’m begging you.” The assistant pleaded tearfully. But I wasn’t moved by this. “Why are you begging me? Did I tell you to be arrogant and look down on people? Beg yourself.” I said, then looked at Lily, “Do you have anything else to say? If not, I’m closing the door.” I gave her one chance to apologize to me. It’s up to her whether she knows to cherish it or not. Lily narrowed her eyes slightly, “Zinnia, are you sure you want to go against me?” “…” Are actors so powerful nowadays? They dare to confront investors now. Does she think her backing is very powerful? Fine. I directly closed the door. Lily left. I received a call from Henry. On the phone, Henry said, “Zinnia, can we meet?” I asked with interest, “What’s the matter?” After two seconds of silence, Henry spoke again, “You’re the biggest investor in Lily’s new show. I hope you won’t make things difficult for her. The person who wronged you was me. You can come at me instead.” His words made me laugh, “What makes you think I would let you off?” Henry: “…” “Lily’s matter has nothing to do with you. It’s her own problem. Your first love doesn’t have very good character. I don’t care if others fall for her act, but she’s messed with me now, and I won’t indulge her.” I laid it out there. Henry paused again, “Zinnia, do you still love me?” “??” Did my ears stop working? “What did you say?” “I know you still love me. Everything you’re doing is because you can’t let go of me, so you want to take revenge on me…” “Didn’t you say you wanted to see me?” I interrupted Henry’s words, “Where? When?” Henry: “…” … The place where Henry and I met was in a very quiet club. I entered the private room, and Henry slowly stood up. Without a word, I went up and slapped him hard across the face. The sound of “slap” was crisp and loud. Henry was first incredulous, then his expression turned to anger. I smiled and asked him, “Are you angry? Do you want to hit me? You’re angry, you want to hit me, that’s because you still love me, so you want to take revenge on me.” Henry choked, his lips pressed tightly together. I sat down, “What did you want to tell me? You can say it now.” “Lily said you’re making things difficult for her. I said, if you have any dissatisfaction, you can come at me.” I looked up slightly, “I also said, I won’t let you off. Don’t be in a hurry.” “Are you sure you want to go against me?” Henry asked in a deep voice. “Go against you?” I couldn’t help but laugh, “No, no, you’ve got it wrong. I’m not going against you, Henry. I’m unilaterally crushing you.” Henry nodded, his voice still heavy, “Alright, Zinnia. Don’t blame me for not giving you a chance later.” 8 Although Henry and I left the club one after another, we were still photographed and quickly made it to the financial news section. That night when I returned to Caspian’s home, as soon as I entered, I saw him reading the newspaper. I went over to look, and there was such a large section about Henry and me. Looking at Caspian’s face, it was so dark it looked like the bottom of a pot. I quietly cleared my throat and sat down beside him, “The reporters only caught us going out one after another. They didn’t capture me slapping Henry inside.” Caspian scanned me, seeming to become interested, “You hit him?” I nodded. He half-believed, half-doubted, “Really?” I raised my hand, “Do you want me to demonstrate for you?” Caspian suddenly grabbed my wrist and pulled me into his arms, leaning down to kiss me. Is he sick? I pushed him away, “What are you doing?” “You’re shy?” Caspian seemed to be in a much better mood, smiling as he asked. I rolled my eyes, “Which eye of yours saw that I was shy? I just… I’m not used to it.” Although we’re married, I’m really not used to being so intimate and lovey-dovey with Caspian. It always feels a bit awkward. I’m more used to bantering with him. “Then we’ll get used to it with more kisses?” Caspian’s tone was matter-of-fact. “…” He put his arm around my shoulders, “Come on, tell your brother, what are your plans?” “What plans?” Caspian’s face instantly darkened, “Zinnia, you’re using a double standard. You’ve been going against me for so many years. I say one thing and you have ten things waiting for me. He cheated on you, and you’re not even getting revenge? Do you still have lingering feelings for him?” “Oh, you mean this.” I smiled, “What, do you have any good suggestions? Let’s hear them.” Caspian whispered something in my ear. My ear tickled, and I couldn’t help but shrink away a few times. But he’s really quite mischievous. However, I like this suggestion. “Alright, I’ll take your advice then.” “So how are you going to repay me?” He looked at me, his gaze gradually becoming heated. I vaguely sensed something changing in the atmosphere and couldn’t help but swallow. The next second, Caspian leaned in and kissed me. This time, I didn’t resist. … Just as Caspian said, Henry indeed invested to get resources for Lily. It was another movie. After I got the news, I immediately increased my investment, becoming the largest investor, and changed the female lead. When Henry found out, he threw in another 50 million. So I threw in another 100 million. After all, mine was money. Henry had limited funds and couldn’t compete with me in this bidding war. He withdrew his investment. He invested in another project, and even though it was kept confidential, I still had channels to get the information. I also withdrew my investment from the previous project and followed Henry to invest in his current project, determined to be the largest investor, then replace the female lead. When Henry withdrew his investment, I immediately withdrew mine too. After several rounds like this, Henry finally couldn’t hold back and found me again. “Zinnia, I said, if you have any issues, come at me. It has nothing to do with Lily!” “Alright then, I’ll come at you.” I’m really considerate, doing whatever he says. I really went after Henry. He invested in another project, and I pushed the funding to a peak before backing off. Henry invested three hundred million more in this project than he originally planned. Next, I was going to go after Henry’s company. Competing with him for projects. I have money anyway, and he’s spent all his liquid funds on getting resources for his dear Lily, so he has no more cash flow. In a few months, I had snatched three or four of Henry’s projects. My dad even started praising me. Actually, Caspian taught me these underhanded tactics. Caspian was very proud of this, smugly asking me, “Isn’t your husband smart?” Seeing how pleased he looked, I didn’t have the heart to burst his bubble, so I nodded. In fact, how is this smart? It’s clearly just being mean. 9 I got the latest news that Lily’s new show was cancelled due to lack of investment. Lily asked to meet me, wanting to know what it would take for me to let her off. I blinked innocently, “I never thought about letting you off. If you’re doing well, I’ll feel upset. You know, people shouldn’t get angry, especially women. Holding in anger is very bad for your health.” Lily took a deep breath and straightened her back, “You think this is enough to bring me down? I can completely quit the entertainment industry and be content as a rich man’s wife.” “Then why don’t you go be one and let me see?” I smiled slightly.

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The autopsy report of my daughter revealed she had been drugged and subjected to long-term beatings and abuse before her death. I admit I wasn’t a good mother. It wasn’t until after Lily’s death that I finally acknowledged this fact. Night after night, I was haunted by nightmares. In my dreams, my daughter, covered in blood, would say to me, “Mom, avenge me.” I had pushed her towards the abyss in my desire for her to succeed. I spent all my savings on plastic surgery, forged a new identity, and finally managed to infiltrate this prestigious preschool. Don’t cry, Lily. Mom is here to avenge you. I removed the layers of bandages from my head. When I looked in the mirror again, I couldn’t help but marvel. What a beauty. Willow-leaf eyebrows, double eyelids – a strange combination, yet exuding charm. The plastic surgeon asked me, “Can I take a photo to use as a template?” I smiled and declined. It’s best if this face isn’t exposed to the public too much. After a few days of recovery, I went for an interview at an elite preschool called Pink White Purple. The vice principal who interviewed me was very satisfied with my qualifications. After a series of questions, I passed the interview. As I was about to leave, she asked why someone fluent in four languages and with overseas experience would want to be a preschool teacher. I smiled and said, “The flowers of our nation deserve the best protection.”

Three days later, I officially became a proud preschool teacher. The children were adorable, gathering around me and calling me Miss Cindy. My colleague, a young woman named Sarah, smiled and said, “You’re so good with them. The children all like you.” I chuckled and joked, “They like us both. After all, we’re both young and pretty.” As we were leaving work, Sarah said with a smile, “I’m off then. My husband’s here to pick me up.” I followed Sarah and just as I saw her husband getting out of the car to open the door for her, I quickly ran up to them and handed Sarah a notebook from my bag. “Sarah, you forgot your notebook.” She hurriedly took it and thanked me. Her husband’s eyes smiled at me from behind his gold-rimmed glasses. I quickly averted my gaze, but Sarah still caught our awkward interaction. Sarah looked at her husband somewhat playfully, and after a few seconds, she introduced me, “This is my new colleague, the beautiful Cindy. You’ll be seeing her often from now on.” Sarah’s husband extended his hand and introduced himself, “Dr. James, from City Hospital. Nice to meet you.” I pretended to be hesitant, glanced at Sarah, and then timidly reached out to barely touch Dr. James’ fingertips. Sarah pulled Dr. James away and hurriedly got into the car, her expression not looking too good. Ah, perhaps this is the pain of being too beautiful. Always being seen as a potential threat, always being assumed to be a homewrecker.

As expected, Dr. James asked me out. I’m not sure how he got my number, but when I received his call, I acted very flustered. I asked him, “Does Sarah know you’re asking me out?” He seemed to pause on the other end of the line, and after a while, he said, “How could she possibly know? I didn’t expect such a charming beauty like you to ask such an embarrassing question.” I giggled, my voice soft and sweet. He asked me, “Do you want to meet up?” Without hesitation, I said, “Of course, I want to meet you. Just the two of us.” He laughed heartily and set the time and place. Ten o’clock tomorrow night, at Love’s Tavern. I was actually a bit surprised that he didn’t just ask me to go straight to a hotel room. But I was happy about it too. After all, people all look the same without clothes on; it’s the flirting while dressed that shows the differences between individuals. I arrived on time, wearing a loose T-shirt and shorts. Under his shocked gaze, I sat down calmly. He raised his glass and said with pursed lips, “You’re quite special.” “I’ll take that as a compliment,” I mimicked his gesture and raised my glass. “Thank you for the drink and the praise.” Dr. James was indeed a master of flirtation. His pace was neither too fast nor too slow, occasionally telling amusing stories from work that made me laugh out loud, and then switching to topics that both men and women love to discuss. I raised my glass to him again, “I never thought a doctor could tell dirty jokes more vividly than the average man.” He downed his full glass of sake in one go, “Can’t help it, I’m human too and need to let off steam. At least I’m just talking, which is better than some beasts out there.” I became interested, “What do you mean by beasts? Do they visit prostitutes or use drugs?” He shook his head playfully, “Much worse than those vices.” I pretended to be angry and pouted, “You’re such a tease, leaving people hanging like that.” He laughed out loud and asked me, “Do you really want to know?” I nodded firmly, looking at him with feigned innocence. “Alright, I give in to you, but you can’t tell anyone else, okay?” He specifically warned me and made me sit next to him. Dr. James put his arm around me, brushed my hair away from my ear, and whispered, “There’s a type of person with violent tendencies who likes to abuse children.” I swallowed hard, suppressing the pain in my heart, and asked him, “Really? They’re so perverted.” Dr. James touched my cheek with his finger, saying indulgently, “Scaredy-cat. But don’t worry, I’m not that kind of person.” “I like mature beauties, especially those who pretend to be innocent.” His finger moved down to my lips. I stared at that finger for a few seconds, then lightly licked it with the tip of my tongue. I could feel his gaze, instantly becoming heated. If we weren’t in the main hall of the tavern, I suspect he might have taken me right then and there.

The next day at work, Sarah looked upset. When I asked her with concern, she just shook her head. I kindly said, “If you’re not feeling well, go rest in the office first. I can handle things here.” Sarah thought for a moment and finally nodded. She said to me, “Thank you, I appreciate it.” I smiled lightly and told her not to mention it. By lunchtime, Sarah still hadn’t come to the cafeteria. I brought some lunch back to the office and found Sarah with very swollen eyes. “Did you… cry?” I asked nervously. She hesitated for a long time, perhaps unable to bear it any longer, and finally sobbed as she confided in me. “My husband didn’t come home until midnight yesterday, even though he wasn’t on duty. He came back very late, reeking of alcohol, and started hitting and yelling at me as soon as he got home.” I quickly handed her some tissues. She took them and cried for a while longer before finally stopping. Sarah said, “Cindy, thank you for being my confidant.” I waved my hand, “Don’t mention it. Who doesn’t have some troubles they need to talk about?” She looked at me gratefully and accepted the lunch I had brought for her. In the blink of an eye, I had been working there for three months. During this time, I finally got to know all my colleagues at the preschool clearly, and I even got along well with the security guards and cleaners. Everyone praised me, saying Miss Cindy is beautiful, has high emotional intelligence, and will surely make a name for herself in the future. Some people even praised me to my face like this, but I just shook my head and said, “I have no ambition. I’d be content if I could just be a good preschool teacher for the rest of my life.” So those who praised me would say that Miss Cindy is a breath of fresh air among women, as pure as an orchid, truly a good woman. I smiled and didn’t refute them anymore. When people want to praise you, no matter what you say, they’ll think you’re right. Of course, if people want to belittle you, no matter what you do, you’ll be criticized and have your spine painfully jabbed. I think Sarah must have deeply felt this. She was naturally someone who wore her emotions on her face, direct and self-centered. And at just 27 years old, she had become one of the top senior preschool teachers in the city, naturally receiving a lot of attention at the school. So she became particularly arrogant, looking down on others. Especially next to my humble self, she appeared even more proud. During these three months since I started working, whenever she angered other teachers, I would apologize on her behalf; when she complained about the cafeteria food, I would praise the cooks’ skills after meals when I had nothing else to do. I thought that at first, people around must have thought I was her sycophant. But as time passed, they finally understood that I was everyone’s little ray of sunshine. Sarah’s reputation got worse and worse. In the anonymous evaluation that took place every six months, she received over forty negative votes. She was called in for a talk with the principal. Sarah, being too proud to accept such humiliation, got into an argument with the principal. The conflict wasn’t actually that serious, but as words escalated, the principal became angry and said she would fire Sarah. Sarah laughed coldly, slammed the table, and shouted loudly for us onlookers to hear. “No need to fire me, I’ll leave on my own!”

Sarah resigned, which really angered the principal. I’m not sure if it was to save face or if she genuinely meant it, but she threatened to blacklist Sarah. For some reason, Sarah didn’t seem afraid at all. I don’t know if she’s just gutsy or truly foolish. Pink White Purple Preschool is the top-ranked elite preschool in the city. A woman capable of running a preschool to the top naturally has impressive methods. If she really wanted to blacklist Sarah, Sarah would definitely not be able to continue working in the preschool circle. As Sarah was leaving the classroom with her belongings, I squeezed out a few genuine tears. Perhaps no one else in the school was as sincerely sorry to see her go. She smiled at me casually and said, “Don’t worry, I’ll be back.” Seeing my confusion, she leaned in and whispered in my ear, “I know the principal’s secret.” Now it was my turn to look at her in shock. She patted my shoulder and smiled at me again. After seeing Sarah off, before I could finish tidying up the children’s blankets, my internal line rang. It was the principal calling me to her office.

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Adrian pointed at the row of clothes on the rack and instructed me, “Try them on for me, one by one.” I replied, “Sure thing.” Quite the playboy, aren’t you? When I changed into a red sheer uniform, his gaze became intense. I’m just a stand-in, trying on clothes so he can find traces of his ideal lover in me… He said he wanted someone both innocent and seductive. I can act that out – acting is what I do best! “Move in with me. I’ll transfer money to your account monthly,” Adrian said to me. Although I consider myself attractive with a great personality and no bad habits, I didn’t think I was worthy enough for a handsome CEO of a listed company to offer to pay for my company. One should always be self-aware. When good fortune falls into your lap, don’t rush – remember to ask why. “Are you sure you’ve got the right person? I’m Lily.” Adrian didn’t even look at me. “I’m not blind.” “Besides keeping you company, is there anything else I need to do?” “What else can you do?” Adrian continued to keep his head down, casually signing a few documents. I was left speechless. “One last question,” I swallowed hard, hesitating as I chose my words: “You’re offering me so much money per month. You don’t have any… special preferences, do you?” Adrian finally looked up, his narrow eyes peering at me through his gold-rimmed glasses. “Such as?” Thinking of some unhealthy scenarios I’d read in novels, I counted on my fingers as I gave examples: “Like… some light BDSM or something?” Adrian: “…No.” I let out a sigh of relief. “I’ll move in tonight!” I’m not usually one to take shortcuts. As a D-list actress, I once had dreams too. But dreams don’t put food on the table, pay off debts, or cover my mom’s expensive hospital bills. I need money. Although I occasionally feel conflicted about taking this shortcut, I remind myself that even a boyfriend might not be as handsome as my sugar daddy. I feel like I’m going to wake up laughing from this dream. What more could I ask for? That evening, I moved into Adrian’s villa in Westbrook. The villa was huge. I obediently followed the housekeeper, Mrs. Thompson, as she led me to the guest room with my luggage. Mrs. Thompson had a kind face and kept smiling at me. Just as she was about to speak, I interrupted her. “Were you going to say I’m the first girl the boss has brought home?” Mrs. Thompson was surprised. “How did you know?” Of course, it was my years of experience reading romance novels that told me. But it was actually true? Soon, I understood why Adrian had chosen me. On the night I was prepared to give myself to him, Adrian led me into a walk-in closet in the villa. He pointed at the rows of uniforms and dresses on the racks and instructed, “Try them on for me, one by one.” I said, “No problem.” Let alone changing clothes, I’d be willing to do a striptease on the spot if he asked. Thanks to my acting experience, I was familiar with uniforms and changed quickly. As long as he showed no reaction, I immediately moved on to the next outfit. When I changed into a red sheer uniform, Adrian told me to stop and call his name. Suddenly, it all made sense. I understood. Thanks to all those romance novels that had educated me so well. In an instant, I was certain that I was being used as a stand-in. He had me try on one outfit after another, looking for the one that would evoke the feeling she gave him. I swayed in the sheer outer layer of the uniform, as thin as a cicada’s wing, thinking to myself, his ideal lover likes to wear uniforms? That’s quite different. I just wonder which part of me resembles her – my voice? My figure? A similar face? And I wonder when his ideal lover will return. But even after calling his name until my voice went hoarse, Adrian remained motionless. I couldn’t help but suggest, “How about I act it out? I’m an actress, a professional.” Adrian thought for a moment before making his request: “I want someone who’s both innocent and seductive.” Well, if that’s what you like, you should have said so earlier. I quickly adjusted my voice and expression, then called his name: “Adrian.” Adrian: “Have you ever considered that there might be a reason why you’re not famous?” That felt like an arrow to my knee. His voice was hoarse: “Call me again.” I obediently called out: “Adrian.” Adrian picked me up in his arms and carried me to his bedroom. I’m 5’9″ and weigh about 100 pounds, but he walked steadily. His bedroom was spacious, and so was the bed. Before I could admire his king-sized bed or feel the soft memory foam mattress, Adrian started tugging at my uniform. I said, “The clothes look expensive. Take it easy, will you?” Adrian replied, “You should worry about yourself.” An hour later, I felt like I was worth less than the uniform. There were two used condoms in the trash can, and my legs were trembling. Adrian turned on the night light and leaned against the headboard. The warm yellow light traced the curves of his face, highlighting his perfect nose bridge and thin lips. There was a mole at the corner of his narrow eyes, giving him a distant look, completely different from the passionate man he had been in bed moments ago. Adrian reached for a box of cigarettes. “May I smoke?” the sugar daddy asked me. Of course, the sugar daddy could do whatever he wanted. I said, “Give me one too.” We smoked our post-coital cigarettes in silence. As I was about to get up to find the bathroom, Adrian rolled over and pressed himself on top of me again. I blushed and my heart raced as I asked him, “What’s wrong?” He whispered, “One more time.” “You can go anywhere in the house except the study,” Adrian said as he stood by the bed, fastening the last button of his suit, back to his usual executive look. I lay in bed, feeling a bit weak as I nodded and said, “Okay.” That fits – there must be secrets about his ideal lover in the study that he doesn’t want others to see. I’m not very curious and definitely won’t go there. Besides, today I just want to stay in bed. Suddenly remembering something, I asked timidly, “Can I sleep here?” Adrian looked puzzled. “Is the bed not comfortable?” I waved my hand. “No, it’s not that. Isn’t it usually the case that the kept woman can’t sleep in the sugar daddy’s bed? The sugar daddy’s bed is only for…” Adrian asked, “Only for what?” Only for the ideal lover. Of course, I didn’t say the words “ideal lover” out loud. In romance novels, the ideal lover is usually off-limits for the male lead. I changed the subject: “Only for you to sleep in.” Adrian looked down at me. “My bed is quite large.” Probably meaning one more person wouldn’t make much difference. He picked up his phone from the bedside table and reminded me before leaving: “Read fewer romance novels.” Me: … Adrian was a good sugar daddy. Apart from liking to mock me and wanting me to change into a uniform before sex, he had no other strange habits. We not only had harmonious interactions in bed but also communicated well outside of it. He would even glance at the soap operas I was watching and say, “This lead actress’s acting isn’t as good as yours.” Looking at the lead actress’s exaggerated expressions… Thanks, I guess. It’s a compliment, but not entirely. When we came across a particularly melodramatic plot, he couldn’t help but criticize: “No wonder the TV department’s net profit is so low this year.” Sometimes when he saw me playing Ring Fit Adventure at home, he would connect his console and play the two-player mode with me. In the end, I would be panting and exhausted like a dog, while he seemed to have barely broken a sweat. He looked at me and smirked: “You’re so out of shape. No wonder you pass out after three rounds.” I retorted: “You look so handsome when you smile.” Adrian was taken aback, the tips of his ears turning slightly red. My relationship with Adrian as sugar daddy and sugar baby was more like roommates sleeping in the same bed. Late at night, my roommate’s stomach growled, successfully waking me up. With bleary eyes, I asked, “Should we wake up Mrs. Thompson to make you something to eat?” Adrian said, “No need. Mrs. Thompson is resting. Let her sleep.” Although Adrian was rich, he didn’t have any of the bad temper often associated with wealthy people. Even when he was so hungry his stomach was rumbling, he didn’t want to wake up the sleeping housekeeper. This was quite different from the stereotypical CEO in novels. Hearing his response, I turned on the light, wide awake now, only to find Adrian’s forehead covered in cold sweat. I was startled: “What’s wrong?” Adrian revealed a pained expression: “Stomachache. I had some drinks earlier.” I knew Adrian had stomach problems. Although he was a second-generation rich kid who inherited the family business and hadn’t experienced the hardships of starting a business from scratch, he worked very hard. Often, I would wake up after a nap to find the light in his study still on. His assistant had mentioned to me a few times that Adrian had a weak stomach and asked me to remind him to eat. He had come back from a business dinner tonight, and I thought he had eaten, so I didn’t remind him. “I’ll go get you some medicine.” Following the principle of not letting my sugar daddy die of illness, I helped Adrian boil water and get his medicine. After watching him take it, I was no longer sleepy, so I went downstairs to make him some porridge. Having lived on my own for years, my cooking skills were quite good. Soon, the kitchen was filled with the fragrant aroma of porridge. I heard Adrian come downstairs and stand silently behind me. I said, “Wait a moment, it’s almost ready.” Adrian responded with a deep “Mm.” Then he stood behind me, motionless. Even with my back turned, I could feel his intense gaze. I thought to myself, stay calm, he must be thinking of his ideal lover. And I guessed that his ideal lover must have been a good cook. Considering how much he was paying me, I could cook for him a few more times, letting him reminisce a bit more. Just as I felt the gaze on my back intensifying, and I thought he was about to pounce on me. He simply walked to my side and pinched my cheek. After being kept by Adrian for over a month, apart from visiting my mom in the hospital and checking on my dad to make sure he hadn’t attempted suicide after his failed business venture, I entered a state of complete unemployment. I seriously asked my agent, Sam, about the dos and don’ts of getting along with a sugar daddy. And I more seriously recalled what the female leads in similar situations in novels usually did. The answer was, apart from falling in love and engaging in battles of wit with various women who appeared around the sugar daddy, they didn’t seem to do much else. At this moment, I also received Sam’s reply: “What’s there to pay attention to? Just make some money, be a heartless gold digger. Ask for gifts and pocket money, you know?” He also sent me a voice message: “Honey, men are temporary, but money will always be with you.” I thought about it and realized he had a point. However, given my relationship with Adrian, which was so peaceful that I felt embarrassed to ask him for more money. Finally, when I was so bored that I started taking walks in his big villa, Adrian, who was handling business in the living room, finally noticed me. He asked, “Do you need something?” I scratched my head: “Sort of, but not really.” Adrian said, “If you don’t have anything to do, come over here and pick a script to act in.” Huh? Pick a script? I can still act? Wait, I’ve never picked a script before. Usually, scripts pick me, and they’re quite picky about it too. I quickly moved to Adrian’s side and looked at several scripts on his tablet. They were all big IPs. I get to choose which one to act in? Is this the joy of taking shortcuts? The corners of my mouth were about to reach my temples. Adrian, as if guessing what I was thinking, coldly said from the side, “I don’t want to lose money, so just find a supporting role to play. Don’t even think about the lead role.” Oh, excuse me. But a supporting role is fine too! I’ve never been in such a big IP production before. In the end, considering Adrian’s opinion, I decided to audition for two scripts. Adrian nodded and sent a message to his assistant to give the directors a heads-up. I stared at his profile, with gratitude and confusion written all over my face. “I have a question, but I’m not sure if I should ask?” Adrian said, “You shouldn’t.” I pretended not to hear and continued to express my curiosity: “Given our relationship, shouldn’t you be keeping me confined at home right now, only allowing me to accompany you, not work, not socialize, to avoid attracting others? After all, I have nothing but my beauty.” Adrian was speechless again. His thin lips parted slightly as he looked at me for a long time. Finally, Adrian said, “If I’ve committed a crime, let the law punish me, rather than having to listen to you narrate a cheesy romance novel here.” In the end, I was confirmed for a supporting role in a big IP production. I would play the prince’s loyal and secretly-in-love maid who ultimately dies for him. A likable character who is loyal, beautiful, brave, and not catty. On the day of the costume fitting photoshoot, even Sam seemed to be holding his head a little higher. There, I ran into Sam, an actress I had conflicts with in previous productions. She was also playing one of the prince’s maids, but with fewer scenes and a less likable character. Sam sneered at me and Sam, taunting, “Well, well, when one person rises to power, even their pets benefit. Found yourself a sugar daddy, didn’t you?” I touched my face and asked Sam, “Is it that obvious?” Sam’s face immediately turned ashen, too angry to speak. Sam, on the other hand, laughed like a cackling hen while holding his Birkin bag. I said, “Bro, tone it down a bit. You’re being too flamboyant.” He gave me a side-eye and quipped with a limp wrist, “My darling, one of my bags is worth more than her entire paycheck for this show. What’s she got to brag about?” Another episode in the “My Agent is Richer Than Me” series. I said, “Is there a possibility that my paycheck might be less than hers?” Sam patted me reassuringly: “But you have Mr. Adrian, don’t you?” I sighed, looking up at the late autumn sky. Indeed, now all I have is Mr. Adrian. Filming required traveling, and although it was just in the suburbs of the city, it wasn’t convenient to return to Westbrook every day as it was too far. This meant I would be living apart from Adrian for a while. The day before I joined the crew, Adrian was unusually enthusiastic. During a break, I asked, “Do you work out regularly?” Adrian: “Yes, every morning when you’re sleeping.” I felt dizzy, finally understanding what it meant when they say that people who are better than you are also working harder than you. Adrian ignored my half-dead expression and continued what he was doing earlier. I almost forgot whether I fell asleep or passed out in the end. The next day on set, I discovered that Adrian had hired a personal assistant for me, and my usually neglectful company had also sent PR staff to eagerly help me take photos. Sam asked, “How does it feel to take shortcuts? Awesome, right?” I smiled weakly, “It’s great, just exhausting.” Sam screamed, “Don’t brag to me!” Heaven knows, I was genuinely tired. At the same time, Adrian hadn’t contacted me for two days. Although I felt a bit lost, I thought to myself, this is normal. I had to constantly remind myself that I was just a stand-in, not his ideal lover. He didn’t need to talk to me every day. Until the third day, when he actively sent me a “?” message. Then he asked: In those romance novels you read, can you go this long without talking to me?

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Chapter One My wife gave me her male secretary’s underwear as a birthday gift. “Honey, wear it for me when I get back from my trip,” Vanessa said, smirking. Suppressing the nausea that welled up inside me, I snapped a photo of the initials embroidered on the waistband and checked my phone. A notification popped up—Connor Blake had just posted a new update. “My sizzling hot boss insists on teaching me how to swim. Who could resist that?” In the video, Vanessa wore a skimpy swimsuit, clinging to Connor in the pool. Their intimacy was undeniable. I chuckled coldly and left a comment. “So, when does the bedroom yoga lesson start?” An hour later, Vanessa called, fuming. “Ethan Hawthorne, are you looking to get yourself into trouble?” Unbothered, I tossed a divorce agreement her way. She cried. When Vanessa came home, I was in the middle of discussing property division with Julian Scott, my divorce lawyer. She stormed in, slamming the door so hard it echoed through the Tribeca apartment. Kicking off her heels, she peeled off her blazer as she made her way to the bathroom. Moments later, she came out, her face contorted with irritation. She grabbed my phone from the coffee table and threw it down. “Who are you chatting with so intently?” “I told you two hours ago I’d be home. No hot water running? No candles lit? And you didn’t even prepare my pajamas?” In the past, I would have jumped at the chance to cater to her every need. But now, her words sounded like nails scraping against a chalkboard. Perhaps, to her, I was always just an obedient servant she could order around. Swallowing the bitterness rising in my chest, I glanced up. My gaze caught a red mark marring her pale skin—a bold testament to her affair. For ten years, I had loved her faithfully, believing nothing could shake our bond. It was this certainty that allowed her to believe I would never leave her. Realizing my anger, Vanessa awkwardly pulled a blanket from the couch to cover herself. Before I could speak, she offered an explanation, unprompted. “Hotels are full of annoying mosquitoes. I couldn’t stop getting bitten.” I laughed dryly. “Do all the hotel mosquitoes look like your secretary, Connor?” Vanessa’s face turned crimson. She stammered defensively, her voice raising. “What nonsense are you talking about? I was just teaching him to swim!” “Those yoga, cycling, and fitness instructors are men too. Does that mean all of them sleep with their clients?” “Stop filling your head with trash!” she snapped. Watching her panic only amused me further. Tired of the charade, I stood up to pack my things. But Vanessa grabbed my arm, her brows knitting together. “Stop being ridiculous.” “I didn’t forget your birthday. I even got you a gift.” The thought of that “gift” ignited my fury. I put on a pair of gloves, retrieved the underwear from the trash, and threw it in her face. Vanessa screamed, stumbling backward, nearly falling. Chapter Two When she saw the initials “CB” on the waistband, her anger quickly morphed into panic. She stared at me nervously, opening her mouth to speak, but no words came out. I crossed my arms and glared coldly, waiting for whatever excuse she’d come up with this time. The tense silence was interrupted by an urgent knock at the door. Vanessa seemed relieved as she darted to answer it. To my surprise, Connor Blake stepped inside. “It’s pouring out there. What are you doing here?” Vanessa asked, her voice soft and warm as she pulled him in. “You’ll catch a cold wearing that soaked jacket.” Her gentleness made me laugh bitterly. When I was sick with a high fever, she couldn’t even be bothered to get me a glass of water. Instead, she’d complain about how my illness inconvenienced her routine. Back then, I thought it was because she wasn’t used to caring for others. Now, I realized she only reserved her kindness for people she deemed worthy. “Ethan, why are you just standing there like a statue?” Vanessa barked, her tone sharp and impatient. “Get your clothes so Connor can change. Bring a few options so he can pick one.” In the past, I might have exploded in anger. But now, all I felt was icy detachment. I smirked, my voice dripping with sarcasm. “Why stop at clothes? Take the bedroom. The bed is spacious enough for the two of you.” Ignoring Vanessa’s darkening expression, I headed to the bedroom to pack. Behind me, Connor tried to calm her down. “Don’t be mad. It’s my fault for showing up unannounced. I just wanted to make up for missing Ethan’s birthday.” Vanessa laughed coldly. “Mad? At him? This tantrum is just his way of trying to control me.” Her defiant tone grated on me. At that moment, Julian Scott sent over the finalized divorce agreement. I printed it out, signed it, and handed it to her without a word. Vanessa glanced at the papers dismissively, but when she realized what it was, her arrogant demeanor dissolved. Anger and disbelief flashed across her face. “You’re going all out with this performance, huh, Ethan?” she sneered, crumpling the paper and hurling it at me. “The digital copy is in your email. Print it yourself if you want,” I replied flatly, dragging my suitcase toward the door. Behind me, Vanessa’s voice shook with barely contained rage. “If you walk out that door tonight, don’t ever come back.” I froze, hand on the doorknob. Something clicked in my mind. I turned to face her. Vanessa’s expression shifted—relief mixed with triumph—before she hardened her features again. “This is your last chance. From now on, don’t even mention the word ‘divorce.’” Chapter Three Over the years, every rule in our relationship had been set by Vanessa. I followed them without question, while she took my devotion as a license to break them whenever she wanted. Words like “breakup” and “divorce” were her go-to weapons, wielded at the slightest inconvenience. Last week, I forgot to buy cat food. That was enough for her to threaten divorce and block me on every platform. I resorted to creating multiple burner accounts just to beg her forgiveness. She ignored me for a week, letting her cold shoulder speak volumes. Eventually, I found out the cat food wasn’t for us—it was for Connor Blake. “Stop standing there like an idiot. Go make some ginger tea for Connor to warm him up,” Vanessa snapped, shoving me aside with disdain. I didn’t argue. Instead, I quietly slid off my wedding ring, turning it over in my fingers. It was a ring I’d designed myself—every detail carefully considered. I’d never taken it off, and I’d been insistent that she wear hers every day too. It was the one thing I wouldn’t compromise on, no matter how angry she made me. But this time, it was different. I inhaled deeply and placed the ring in her hand. This time, I was really letting go. Vanessa’s head snapped up, her eyes wide with disbelief. Her face turned red, and tears glistened in her eyes. But instead of breaking, she hardened herself, gripping the ring tightly. “Fine, Ethan. I’ll wait,” she said coldly. “Tomorrow, you’ll come crawling back like the dog you are.” She hadn’t realized yet—there would be no tomorrow for us. It was late at night, and the icy wind cut through the streets like a blade. I leaned against my car, fumbling with a pack of cigarettes. Only one was left. Smoke curled around me as my thoughts drifted. When I first moved to New York City to start my career, I didn’t know anyone. My quiet nature didn’t lend itself to making friends, so I spent my evenings in a tiny Tribeca apartment, playing online games to pass the time. That’s how I met Vanessa. She was my support in a team match. Instead of running to safety, she turned back to save me, even though it cost us both our lives in the game. After the match, she added me as a friend and messaged, “Hey, carry me next round, Mr. Pro.” Her sunny, outgoing personality was the complete opposite of my reserved nature. I couldn’t resist her charm. We started playing together every night. Winning matches and listening to her gentle voice as she talked me through her day became the highlight of my life. One night, out of the blue, she said, “What do you think about meeting up?” Chapter Four Her tone was casual, but I could hear her nervous breathing through my headset. Even now, I can still remember her laughter when I agreed. So this is what it feels like to matter to someone, I thought. When we met in person, she took my arm naturally, shaking it playfully. “Who would’ve thought the gaming legend looked this handsome in real life?” she teased, her bright eyes sparkling like stars in the summer sunlight filtering through the trees. The memory lingered as I took a drag of my cigarette. The glowing ember burned my fingers, and I cursed, tossing it to the ground and grinding it out with my shoe. When I looked up, Vanessa was standing in front of me, her cheeks red from the cold. Her wide eyes brimmed with tears, and her expression was full of unspoken hurt. I sighed deeply. After all these years, I had no regrets about the way I’d loved her. So what was she crying for? She had someone else now. If she loved him so much, why not let me go peacefully? Why cling to this broken relationship? “Ethan, don’t look at me like that,” she whispered, tugging at my sleeve. “It scares me.” “I was wrong about your birthday,” she continued, her voice softening. “I should’ve picked out your gift myself.” “Please don’t stay angry, okay?” In all our years together, I’d never seen Vanessa act so vulnerable. She’d always been confident that no matter what, I would be the one to apologize first. But it was too late for that now. She still didn’t understand why we’d reached this breaking point. I brushed her hand away and opened the car door. Her desperation flared. She pressed her hand firmly against the door to keep it closed. “You promised me,” she said, her voice trembling. “Every birthday, you’d grant me one wish. Don’t you remember?” “Well, this is my wish: come home with me.” For a moment, I was transported back to the past—back to when Vanessa used to hold me tightly and say, “You’ll never be alone again. I’ll always be here with you.” Maybe this could be my final act of kindness toward her. I decided I would give her one last moment of happiness before leaving quietly while she slept. Vanessa wiped her tears and broke into a triumphant smile, tilting her chin smugly. “I knew it. You could never leave me.” The moment we walked through the door, a loud pop startled me. Streamers rained down from above, and voices shouted in unison, “Happy birthday!” I froze in the entryway, glancing around the living room. Among the faces were Vanessa’s closest friends, including Brielle Hart, Chloe Monroe, and Miranda Tate. “Do you like the surprise I planned for you?” Vanessa asked, her tone almost pleading for approval. For a brief moment, the warmth of the gesture softened the icy walls around my heart. I couldn’t remember the last time anyone had celebrated my birthday. Most years, I spent it alone or treated it like any other ordinary day. But the smile didn’t last long. My eyes landed on the dining table, where a bright green cake sat. It was decorated with green grapes and surrounded by matching green flowers. “This is my apology to you, Ethan,” Vanessa said sweetly. “I made it myself.” Across the room, Connor Blake smirked at me, his eyes brimming with smug satisfaction. Chapter Five The others crossed their arms and leaned back, amused by the spectacle. Their mocking gazes bore into me, each one like a searing brand. “Don’t just stand there,” Vanessa urged. “Sit down and have some cake.” I couldn’t tell if she was oblivious to the malice in the room or deliberately ignoring it. Still, I wanted to avoid a scene on what would be my last night here. Quietly, I took a seat at the table. A short-haired woman, Quinn Harper, tapped her nails on the table and let out a derisive laugh. “Ethan, let’s be real. You’re not even good enough for Vanessa’s toenails, and yet she insists on staying with you,” Quinn sneered. “Do her a favor and stop acting like a jealous drama queen. If she and Connor had something going on, do you think you’d even be in the picture?” My fists clenched so tightly my knuckles cracked. I turned to Vanessa, hoping for even a shred of defense on my behalf. But she averted her eyes, ladling soup into a bowl and placing it in front of Connor. My anger boiled over. Just as I began to rise, someone shoved me back into my seat. Connor stirred his soup lazily, his voice dripping with mockery. “Ethan’s not all bad,” he said. “Vanessa just told us that as long as she sweet-talks him a little, he’ll come running back like a loyal dog.” Something inside me snapped. All this time, I was nothing more than her fool. Connor stood, grabbed a handful of the green cake, and smeared it across my face. The hard metal decorations cut into my skin. Before I could react, others followed his lead, smearing cake onto my hair and clothes. “Look at him,” Connor jeered. “Doesn’t he look like a green turtle?” The room erupted in laughter. Connor leaned close to my ear, whispering, “Even if I slept with Vanessa right in front of you, what could you do about it?” The noise around me faded into silence, replaced by the thunder of my pulse. With a roar, I flipped the table, sending dishes and silverware crashing to the floor. Vanessa, trembling with rage, slapped me hard across the face. “What’s your problem, Ethan?” she shouted. “They were just standing up for me. Connor spent all day making that cake! Now apologize to him, or I’ll never forgive you.” I let out a bitter laugh. How ridiculous. When they insulted me, she stayed silent. But now, over a cake, she leapt to Connor’s defense. “Fine,” I said coldly. “I’ll apologize.” Pulling out my phone, I dialed a number I’d been holding onto for a long time.

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