When I submitted my expense report, Ms. Jenkins, the accountant, practically threw the receipts back at me. “New company policy,” she snapped, her voice as crisp as a freshly ironed shirt. “Accommodations in major cities capped at $100 a night, food at $20. You’re way over the limit!” “Seriously?” I stared at her, disbelief curdling in my gut. “I was in New York City! Even a budget motel like ‘InnExpress’ costs upwards of $300. What am I supposed to do, sleep on a park bench for $100 a night?” “That’s not my problem,” she said, her voice flat, her eyes unblinking. “It’s Mr. Sterling’s rule.” I glanced down at the pile of receipts in my hand, nearly $50,000 worth. My last six months’ salary, plus maxed-out credit cards, had barely kept me afloat. If they didn’t reimburse me, I wouldn’t even be able to afford groceries. Thinking of all my contributions to the company, the millions I’d brought in, I went to Mr. Sterling’s office, clinging to a thread of naive hope. But he just waved me off. “I said it’s a company rule,” he repeated, not even bothering to look up from his computer. “Coming to me won’t change anything!” 1 I’d been on the road for months, constantly traveling to nail down a multi-million-dollar project for the company. Now, with the project finally nearing completion, they were suddenly refusing to cover my travel expenses. Earlier, I’d tried to catch Ms. Jenkins in between trips back to the office to report on the project’s progress, but she’d shut me down immediately. “Expense reports are only processed during the last week of the month,” she’d declared. The problem was, the last week of every month was exactly when I had crucial project review meetings with the client. How on earth was I supposed to be in the office then? So, I had no choice but to wait until the very beginning of the last week, rush back to file my report, and then dash back to the client. And now, of course, my accommodation and dining expenses were “over budget.” Ms. Jenkins had a face like a stone wall, repeating the same mantra over and over: “If Mr. Sterling signs it, I’ll process it.” Armed with my stack of denied reports, I found Mr. Sterling. “Sir,” I began, trying to keep my voice steady, “you can’t possibly find a hotel in New York City for $100 a night.” He scoffed, a sneer twisting his lips. “Have you even tried? How can you be so certain it’s impossible when you haven’t made an effort?” “Even a budget motel like ‘InnExpress’ charges $300,” I insisted, my voice rising slightly. “I stayed in a dingy little inn for $150, which was already a steal. Go online, check it out!” Mr. Sterling smirked, pulled out his phone, and typed furiously. He quickly found a few youth hostels online, advertising beds for $50 a night. “See?” he crowed, holding up his screen. “Need me to book one for you?” “Those are hostels!” I retorted, exasperated. “Eight people to a room! That’s not a business trip, that’s a sleepover!” “And?” he shot back, his eyes narrowing. “If others can stay there, why can’t you?” “Because I need to work overtime! I can’t get anything done with eight people crammed into one room! And what about my personal belongings, my company laptop? What if they get stolen?” He paused, perhaps conceding the point. But then he typed away again, pulling up “InnExpress” locations in the outer boroughs or far-flung suburbs, like Staten Island. Sure enough, some listed rooms for $100. “Mr. Sterling,” I said, barely containing my anger. “While technically part of New York, those locations are hours away. I’d need to take a commuter train just to get to the client’s office!” He opened a map on his phone, scrutinizing it for a long moment. “Nonsense. There are buses! You just have to wake up earlier, that’s all, Ethan.” I bit back the urge to curse. “And $20 for meals isn’t enough either. A basic sandwich and coffee in the city costs nearly that much!” “Ethan,” he said, leaning back with a self-satisfied grin. “This is where I really need to set you straight. If you weren’t traveling, wouldn’t you pay for your own meals? Why should the company cover it just because you’re on a trip? You have to eat whether you’re traveling or not. The $20 is a perk, a bonus! It’s at least enough for a budget meal service, isn’t it?” I was utterly speechless. Along with the company’s insistence on slow, uncomfortable regional trains, this was the “business travel package”: endure a miserable journey, bunk in a hostel, and eat cheap, shared meals. Anyone who wanted that could have it! Watching his utterly shameless expression, I knew he wouldn’t budge on the money. Fine. I’d give in. Even if I only got reimbursed at his ridiculous rates – $100 for lodging, $20 for meals – that still left over $40,000. I needed something back, especially since I was struggling to put food on the table. But then, unbelievably, even after I swallowed that bitter pill, Ms. Jenkins still wouldn’t release the funds. 2 I trudged back to my cubicle, adjusted the reimbursement amounts on my report, and then headed back to Ms. Jenkins’s desk. “Ms. Jenkins,” I said, trying to sound reasonable, “how about this? Just reimburse me based on the $100 for lodging and $20 for meals, as per company policy.” Ms. Jenkins took my report, glanced at it, and then tossed it back onto the counter. “Can’t process it.” My blood ran cold. “But I just agreed to your company’s absurd policy! Why can’t you process it now?” “The invoice amount doesn’t match the reimbursement amount.” “So what? The invoice amount is higher than the company’s allowed expenditure! The national tax regulations even permit this kind of adjustment!” “The government might allow it, but Mr. Sterling doesn’t. He requires the amounts to match exactly.” My temper flared. “Ms. Jenkins, I haven’t submitted an expense report in almost a year. I’ve personally covered over $50,000 for this company, and now I’m willing to settle for just $40,000-something based on your company’s insane rules! Can you please, for the love of God, just process this?” “Mr. White,” she said, her voice utterly devoid of emotion, “those are Mr. Sterling’s requirements. Get his signature, and I’ll process it immediately.” Watching Ms. Jenkins, who seemed to be carved from granite, I knew arguing was futile. So, for the second time, I returned to Mr. Sterling’s office. “Mr. Sterling,” I began, trying to rein in my frustration, “Ms. Jenkins says the invoice amount is too high and needs your signature to be processed.” He took the report, saw the reduced amount – over $10,000 less than the original – and a wide, gleeful smile spread across his face. “Ethan, my boy,” he said, practically purring. “You know, a company this big can’t be managed by people alone; it needs systems, it needs rules. Consider this a lesson learned. Normally, we don’t allow such discrepancies, but I’ll make an exception for you this one time. Don’t let it happen again, though!” With that, he scrawled his signature on the report. He’d just swindled me out of over ten grand, of course he was happy to sign. Armed with Mr. Sterling’s signature, I hurried back to the finance department. The moment I handed the report to Ms. Jenkins, she, once again, tossed it back. “Can’t process it!” Hearing those words, my blood practically boiled. 3 “What now?!” I snapped, my voice dangerously high. “Company policy states a maximum reimbursement of $5,000 per month. You’ll need to split that into nine separate reports. Go break it down and bring it back.” I took a deep, shaky breath, fighting to keep my composure. “Ms. Jenkins, why couldn’t you have told me all the problems at once?” “The company’s financial policies are posted right there on the wall,” she said, gesturing vaguely. “It’s not my fault if you don’t bother to read them.” I looked up. Sure enough, a printed notice was tacked to the wall. Who the hell ever wandered into the finance department just to read notices? I felt myself about to explode, my voice rising with every word. “This reimbursement is for money I paid out for the company! This is money the company owes me, not a bonus or a salary! I spent nearly $50,000 of my own money, and you expect me to wait nine months to get it back? Are you going to pay me interest?” But, as always, her reply was the same emotionless drone: “It’s Mr. Sterling’s policy. Get his signature, and I’ll process it immediately.” Mr. Sterling again? Looking at Ms. Jenkins’s unyielding expression, I knew further argument was pointless. So, once more, I trudged back to Mr. Sterling’s office. “Mr. Sterling,” I said, trying to maintain a shred of politeness. “Ms. Jenkins says there’s a new company policy limiting reimbursements to $5,000 a month.” “That’s right,” he said, not bothering to hide the satisfaction in his voice. “That’s the rule.” “But I’ve been traveling constantly, I haven’t had time to come back and file reports. I’ve accumulated over half a year’s worth of expenses! Even at your company’s reduced rates, that’s still over $40,000!” He didn’t even lift his head. “Then split it up. Reimburse a little each month.” “But I travel every single month! My new travel expenses alone will almost hit $5,000! By your company’s rules, I’ll never get my $40,000 back! This is money I paid for the company!” At that, Mr. Sterling slowly lifted his head. “Ethan, a company this large needs rules to function properly. You didn’t file on time; that’s your problem. And I just told you, I made an exception for you once, but it won’t happen again. Why are you back?” “Mr. Sterling, I have crucial project meetings at the client’s site at the end of every month! I can’t possibly come back to the office! How am I supposed to file?” “See, Ethan, you’re always so absolute. Have you even tried to find a solution? You haven’t made an effort, so how can you say it’s impossible?” “The client requires my presence at those meetings! I genuinely can’t come back!” “You could always fill out the forms and mail the receipts in, couldn’t you?” Are you kidding me? How was I supposed to know about all these ridiculous new rules that popped up out of nowhere? Besides, I had mailed them in once before, and Ms. Jenkins had complained my receipts weren’t taped horizontally, letting them sit in her office for months. But if I told him that, he’d just retort, “Well, why couldn’t you tape them horizontally then?” It was always something with him. He always had an answer, always a way to make it my fault. 4 I stormed out of Mr. Sterling’s office, a boiling cauldron of rage. But what choice did I have? I had to get at least $5,000 out. My credit card bills were due, I needed to eat, and my entire salary had been sunk into these travel expenses. I was flat broke. Finally, on my fourth attempt, Ms. Jenkins accepted my expense report. Her face was still a blank mask. “Mr. White,” she said, “this report is finally correct. It seems you’ve learned to follow our financial rules, haven’t you?” If I weren’t so desperate for the money, I might have slapped her. I bit back my anger and forced a question. “Thank you, Ms. Jenkins. When can I expect the reimbursement?” “If you’re lucky, it’ll be processed with next month’s salary.” My jaw dropped. It was already the end of the current month. Next month’s salary wouldn’t be paid until the middle of next month. That meant I wouldn’t see a dime for nearly two months! I was counting on that money to eat! My last paycheck had immediately been swallowed by credit card debt. I was truly penniless. “Ms. Jenkins,” I pleaded, “can’t it be sooner? I’m genuinely out of money.” “Mr. White,” she droned, “that’s just how the reimbursement process works. We have to verify receipts, reconcile accounts… it’s not a quick turnaround.” Processes. What was the point of all these processes except to trip up ordinary people like me? I decided to try a different angle. “Ms. Jenkins, could I get an advance on my salary for this month? I really, truly don’t have money for food.” Predictably, the same old line: “If Mr. Sterling signs it, I can process it!” “Ms. Jenkins, can you please, for once, try to see this from my perspective? I’ve effectively been paying to work for this company for over half a year! My salary and all my savings have been poured into travel expenses!” Ms. Jenkins’s poker face remained impassive. “Get Mr. Sterling’s signature, and I’ll advance your salary immediately.” I was starting to wonder if Ms. Jenkins was an AI, programmed with only one response: “If Mr. Sterling signs it, I’ll do it.” Defeated, I sought out Mr. Sterling again. To my surprise, he didn’t refuse outright. “Ethan,” he said, feigning sympathy. “You should know, advancing a salary incurs financial costs for the company. That money, sitting in the bank, earns interest. Since you’re truly broke and need an advance for food, I can’t just let you starve. But, business is business, and you’ll have to bear the loss of that interest. How about this: I’ll approve $5,000, and we’ll calculate interest at 5%. So you’ll actually receive $4,750, with $250 as interest.” So, the old snake did understand the concept of capital costs? Then why wasn’t he paying me interest for holding my money for so long? Today was a real eye-opener. From start to finish, he had me completely cornered. It really felt like I was paying to work here. But the thought of not being able to eat gnawed at me. I swallowed my pride and forced out the words, “Thank you, Mr. Sterling.” “No need to thank me,” he said, beaming. “Just work hard, Ethan, and repay the company with your performance!” Repay? Oh, I’d repay him alright. With interest. 5 The very next morning, just as I settled into my office, Mr. Thompson, our client from New York, called. “The end-of-month project review meeting is today,” he said, his voice laced with annoyance. “Why aren’t you here?” “My apologies, Mr. Thompson. Our company policy dictates that expense reports can only be filed at the end of the month. I had to return to the office for that. Perhaps my boss can arrange for someone else?” Mr. Thompson exploded. “Expense reports? Are you kidding me right now? You’re missing a critical project meeting for expense reports? Do you know we’re on the cusp of final acceptance? Everyone’s working overtime, and you’re filing expenses?!” “Mr. Thompson, please calm down,” I tried to explain. “I haven’t been reimbursed in over half a year. I literally didn’t have money for food. If I hadn’t come back yesterday, I might have been sleeping on the streets today.” But Mr. Thompson wasn’t listening. “I’m calling your boss right now! We’ll see what’s more important: your expenses or this project!” The second phase of the project had a potential budget in the tens of millions. Mr. Sterling wouldn’t dare offend such a huge client. Sure enough, less than three minutes later, Mr. Sterling burst into my office, practically roaring. “The project is about to be accepted! Why are you still in the office?” “Mr. Sterling,” I said, trying to keep my voice even, “I want to be there, but I don’t have any money.” “Didn’t I just advance you $5,000?” he sputtered. “It was $4,750, actually. And it all went to pay off my credit card debt. Now I’m flat broke again. Can’t afford a train ticket, can’t stay in a hostel, certainly can’t eat a budget shared meal.” Mr. Sterling froze, stunned. But then his face hardened. “Are you trying to say you don’t want your commission and project bonus?” I knew he’d try to scare me with that. “Mr. Sterling, if I stayed in New York, I don’t know if the project would be finished, but I’d definitely be finished. I don’t have a single dollar on me. I can’t even buy a train ticket to New York, so how am I supposed to worry about project bonuses? Am I supposed to take out a payday loan?” “For the company, what’s wrong with a small loan?” “Mr. Sterling, you take a 5% cut when you advance my salary, and now you want me to take out a payday loan for travel expenses, which would be another few percentage points? So my salary effectively gets discounted by 10% from now on?” Seeing my firm stance, Mr. Sterling finally gave in. As he walked out, he said, “Go to Ms. Jenkins and get another $5,000 advanced. Go now.” “Will you still charge 5% interest?” I asked, pushing my luck. “Because if so, I don’t think it’s worth it.” My words choked him for a moment. He finally spat out, “No! It’ll be a company travel advance!” I immediately filled out the advance request form, found Mr. Sterling, who angrily scrawled his signature. “Ethan, don’t do this again! Work comes first. Don’t let a little money jeopardize project progress.” A “little money”? He had some nerve. If not for his ridiculous rules, would I have willingly put myself through this miserable train journey back and forth to New York? Of course, my goal was to get the money. There was no need to burn bridges yet. So, I mumbled an agreement, went straight to Ms. Jenkins, and she quickly transferred the funds. Money in hand, I whistled my way back to my office and continued messing around on my phone. I had no intention of going back to New York to eat budget shared meals. 6 I hadn’t been goofing off for long when Mr. Sterling, passing by, saw me lounging in my office. He stormed in, his face crimson with fury. “Mr. White, why are you still in the office? The client’s project meeting is this afternoon!” “Mr. Sterling,” I said calmly, “the $5,000 was only enough to pay off my credit card. Once that was done, I didn’t have money left for a ticket.” His face flushed even darker. “Are you doing this on purpose?” “I only came back because company policy dictates end-of-month reimbursement. I truly don’t have any money. The $5,000 travel advance you gave me was automatically deducted by my credit card company the moment it hit my account. I’m as helpless as you are, Mr. Sterling.” Before I could finish, Mr. Sterling’s phone rang. I recognized Mr. Thompson’s voice on the other end, unleashing a torrent of abuse at my boss, demanding that I show up at the project meeting that afternoon. I distinctly heard Mr. Thompson shout at Mr. Sterling, “Do you even want the second phase of this project?!” After he hung up, Mr. Sterling gritted his teeth. “Is your credit card paid off now?” “Still owe a little over $5,000,” I replied. “Alright, look,” he said, his voice strained. “Go to finance right now and get a $10,000 advance. Book a midday flight to New York!” He paused, then turned back. “No, forget it. I’ll have my assistant book the flight. You just go get the money.” It was clear Mr. Sterling was desperate. Before, he’d forced me to take slow regional trains, wouldn’t even approve a faster commuter rail. Now, it was a same-day flight. I quickly checked; it was a full-fare ticket, over $2,000. Mr. Sterling’s heart must have been bleeding. I found Ms. Jenkins again, presenting Mr. Sterling’s signature for another $10,000 advance. Ms. Jenkins looked utterly incredulous. “Mr. White, you’re truly something! You’ve managed to move $20,000 out of the company in just two days!” “Ms. Jenkins,” I said, trying to maintain my calm. “You need to be precise with your language. I haven’t gotten back what’s rightfully mine yet. How is this ‘moving money’? If anything, the company should have given me $50,000 yesterday. I’m still at a disadvantage here.” Once I had the money, Mr. Sterling’s assistant had already booked my flight. Time was tight, so Mr. Sterling even had his driver take me to the airport. I actually got a taste of the boss’s treatment for once. However, after pushing Mr. Sterling this far, I knew my days at the company were numbered. He was begrudgingly approving these funds, undoubtedly banking on me completing the current project’s acceptance and helping him secure the second phase. Once this project was done, I was certain he’d kick me to the curb. My 5% project commission would be around $200,000, plus the $30,000-plus in outstanding expenses. Getting that money back would be tricky. Good thing I had a backup plan.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “392840”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

My sister, Stella, had always believed she bore a striking resemblance to Alexander Vanderbilt, the billionaire magnate’s beloved wife – a resemblance she swore was at least five parts out of ten. To usurp Mrs. Vanderbilt’s place, Stella orchestrated a meeting, intending to stage a car crash and eliminate her. I arrived just in time, intercepting the plot before she could carry it out. On the way home, I tried reasoning with her. “Alex Vanderbilt built his empire from nothing, Stella. He’s ruthless, sharp, and has a charming facade that masks a core of steel. Your little schemes? He’ll see right through them eventually. And when he does, our whole family will pay the price.” Stella nodded, seemingly agreeing with my fears. Yet, the moment we stepped through the door, she poured a potent herbicide into my water glass. As death claimed me, her voice, chillingly sweet, whispered in my ear, “You’re just jealous of my face, aren’t you? Jealous of the face that can marry into wealth. You ruined my dream, so I’ll ruin you.” When I opened my eyes again, I was back. Back to the very day Stella had arranged to meet Alex Vanderbilt’s wife. … A deafening crash rent the air, and Stella immediately bolted. She sprinted to the figure sprawled on the pavement, letting out a frantic shriek. “Forget the car! Call 911! Someone call 911!” Stella, her face meticulously made up, dropped to her knees. She performed CPR on the person lying there, not flinching from the blood staining her beautiful clothes, even leaning in for mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Anyone watching would have praised her selfless bravery. Along with the ambulance, a swarm of reporters descended. Facing the cameras, Stella’s voice rose in a righteous fury. “Do you people have no conscience?! This isn’t the time for interviews! Saving a life is what matters!” She then spun around, her voice laced with desperate urgency, as she spoke to the paramedics. “Doctor, please, you have to save her! She’s so beautiful, it would be such a tragedy for her to die like this.” The paramedic seemed genuinely moved. “Don’t worry, ma’am, we’ll do everything we can. Do you know her family?” Stella shook her head. “I’m just a passerby, but I’ll ride with you. I’ll even cover her medical expenses.” The paramedic praised her selflessness, urging her to get into the ambulance. As Stella turned away, she deftly slipped the unconscious woman’s phone into her pocket, unnoticed. I watched the ambulance speed off. After waiting for another half hour, a luxury sedan pulled up at the corner. A man in a charcoal suit jumped out – a familiar face. It was Mr. Davies, Alex Vanderbilt’s assistant. He surveyed the scene, then turned to speak with the police about what had just transpired. I pulled out my phone and sent Stella a message. Ella: Stella, I saw you on the news. What did you do? Her reply was immediate and clipped. Stella: None of your business. A faint smile touched my lips at her four-word response. My sister had devoured too many CEO romance novels, convinced that every billionaire was a fool. After a chance encounter with Alex Vanderbilt, who merely remarked, “You remind me of my wife when she was younger,” she’d begun to fantasize about marrying into unimaginable wealth. In my previous life, I had tried to reason with her, only to face a brutal end. This time, my first priority was to distance myself, to ensure that when Alex Vanderbilt finally retaliated, I wouldn’t be caught in the crossfire. Just as I prepared to head home, my phone rang. It was the hospital, explaining they had a patient in urgent need of an ultra-rare blood type, and asked if I was available. Both Stella and I shared this incredibly rare blood type, and our details were on file with the blood center. Hearing someone was in need, I went to the hospital without a second thought. To my astonishment, the patient in critical condition was none other than Claire Vanderbilt, Alex Vanderbilt’s wife. After donating blood, I walked into the waiting room. Stella, seeing me, froze. “What are you doing here?” I sat down. “Heard someone needed an ultra-rare blood type, so I came.” I glanced at her, then asked pointedly, “What were you doing there?” In the past, when I’d first heard about her plan, I’d tried to dissuade her repeatedly, even threatening to expose her if she went through with it. Stella, clearly worried I’d suspect her, quickly replied, “Just passing by. Coincidence.” “Oh,” I murmured, then settled into silence, closing my eyes, feigning rest. But even without my prodding, Stella couldn’t resist her urge to boast. She leaned in conspiratorially. “Ella, you know who that woman is? She’s Alex Vanderbilt’s wife, the billionaire magnate! Alex Vanderbilt himself told me I look just like she did when she was younger. Once she’s gone, I’ll be the next billionaire’s wife!” Normally, I would have lectured her about her delusions. This time, I just complimented her. “Wow! Congratulations, Stella! When you’re Mrs. Vanderbilt, can you get me a job at Vanderbilt Enterprises?” My groveling successfully inflated her ego. She snorted. “Mom and Dad were right. You’re born to serve, Ella. I’m going to be rich beyond imagining, and all you can think about is working for someone.” Just then, Alex Vanderbilt’s voice echoed from outside the room. Stella’s eyes lit up. She leaped to her feet, ready to make an entrance and ensure she was noticed. Before leaving, she jabbed a finger at me. “You hide! Don’t you dare ruin this for me!” We were twins, and she was terrified I’d steal Alex Vanderbilt’s attention. But she was overthinking it. At that moment, I wanted nothing more than to be as far away from her as possible. I was afraid that when the hammer dropped on her, I’d be caught in the splash zone. Yet, a moment later, Stella let out a low, knowing laugh. “Though, with your face, it probably wouldn’t matter even if you did show up.” Her laugh held a cruel meaning, one I understood perfectly. While we were identical twins, our appearances were vastly different. The same features on her face were like my face, but with a ten-level beauty filter applied. She was stunning; I was, to her, plain. Stella swayed her hips and exited the room. A moment later, I heard her syrupy voice attempting to comfort Alex Vanderbilt, her tone so overtly flirtatious it made my skin crawl. Having just donated blood, I felt a little woozy, so I curled up and drifted off. When I woke, the outside corridor was silent. I checked the time, then decided to head home. The elevator was taking too long, so I opted for the stairs. The moment I entered the stairwell, I heard Alex Vanderbilt speaking with his assistant. “Mr. Vanderbilt, the Mrs.’s phone was showing in the hospital just a moment ago. Now it’s moved.” I froze on the spot, barely daring to breathe. Luckily, neither of them noticed me. Alex Vanderbilt’s voice was frigid. “Look into it privately. Don’t inform the police. Claire never goes to places like that. There’s definitely something fishy going on. Start with that Stella girl, she’s too strange.” “If I find out who laid a hand on Claire,” his voice dropped to a terrifying whisper, “I’ll make their entire family pay.” A shiver ran down my spine. Rumor had it that before becoming a corporate titan, Alex Vanderbilt had been a notorious figure in the criminal underworld, even serving time. Terrified, I rushed home. The moment I stepped through the door, I heard Stella and my parents, Mr. and Mrs. Hayes, laughing. Mrs. Hayes, ever the doting mother, was praising Stella’s “sacrifices” – the money spent, the blood donated – and had bought her an array of blood-boosting supplements. Stella scoffed, “You have to spend money to make money. Paying the medical bills is the only way to keep Alex Vanderbilt in contact.” Mr. Hayes sighed. “But why did you have to donate blood? You have that ultra-rare blood type. It’ll take ages to recover.” “How else was that woman supposed to die?” Stella retorted with a sly grin. “I’d already done my research. Claire Vanderbilt is severely allergic to mangoes. I ate a bunch right before I donated blood. She was a dead woman walking.” Soon, the three of them were lost in fantasies of Stella marrying into wealth. I chose that moment to step out, pointing at Stella, aghast. “How could you do something like that?!” They all fell silent the moment I appeared. I grabbed Stella’s hand, pretending to pull her toward the door. “You can still confess now. It’s not too late.” Stella shoved me away. “Ella, are you insane?! My plan was foolproof! It happened in a derelict part of the city, no surveillance cameras, and the car’s already been disposed of. As long as you keep your mouth shut, no one will suspect a thing!” I frowned, staring at her. “Do you think rich people are as stupid as you are? Why would Claire Vanderbilt, a billionaire’s wife, go to a rundown district for no reason? No cameras, but plenty of eyewitnesses! And you even called the reporters?! You’re an utter fool!” Stella froze for two seconds, then quickly recomposed herself. “It still won’t lead back to me. Ella, why are you so upset? Could it be… you’re jealous?” “I’m afraid you’ll bring our whole family down! If you don’t confess, I’m calling the police.” The words were barely out of my mouth when my hair was yanked back. Mr. Hayes pulled me backward, then kicked my leg. I collapsed to my knees from the pain, but he wasn’t done. He slapped me twice. “Your sister did this for this family, and you’re thinking of calling the police?! I wish I’d strangled you at birth, you little wretch!” Mrs. Hayes cheered him on. “Beat her! Beat her! That stubborn bone won’t learn unless you break her!” Stella, arms crossed, smirked coldly. “Dad, hit her harder. Don’t let her ruin our good fortune.” I endured my father’s kicks and punches, remembering how it had been the same in my past life. When Stella had poisoned me, I’d begged my parents to take me to the hospital. But they had merely locked me away, watching me slowly lose my life with chilling indifference. I never understood why, despite being their twin daughters, they had always favored Stella. She wore new clothes and attended good schools, while I wore rags and served as her drudge. The pain in my body intensified. I screamed, counting down the seconds in my head. A few minutes later, a neighbor knocked, asking what was happening. Mr. Hayes immediately stopped, telling the neighbor, “Nothing, just our older daughter stumbled.” After he shut the door, Mr. Hayes kicked me again. “Do you admit you’re wrong?” Normally, even after such a beating, I would never back down. But this time, like a terrified rabbit, I quickly whimpered, “I’m wrong, Dad. I shouldn’t have said those things to Stella.” Mr. Hayes still wasn’t satisfied. “Are you still going to call the police?” “No, no, never again.” After my repeated apologies, Mr. Hayes’s rage subsided. I then, somewhat obsequiously, begged Stella and Mrs. Hayes for forgiveness. Mrs. Hayes’s face remained cold. “Enough talk. Go make dinner. I’m starving.” I complied, tied on an apron, and went to the kitchen. Just then, Stella’s phone chimed. She looked at it and shrieked. “She’s dead! Claire Vanderbilt is dead! I have to go to the hospital! I have to go comfort Alex Vanderbilt!” She excitedly rushed to her room, changed into a new outfit, applied more makeup, and put on her high heels, ready to leave. My parents, worried about her safety at such a late hour, grabbed the car keys, intending to drive her. The moment they left, I gathered my few belongings, preparing to leave that house for good. As I stepped out, I ran into the neighbor. He frowned at my bruised face. “Your parents again?” Then, seeing my suitcase, he tutted. “Get out of here, kid. If you stay in that house, something terrible will happen sooner or later.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “392839”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

Sylvia Albright’s first love had accidentally gotten himself locked in an office. As punishment for me, she had me confined to a disused cold storage unit, telling me to “reflect.” “You’ll get a taste of what Liam went through,” she’d sneered, “that’s how you learn your lesson!” She locked me inside, leaving me with only a bowl of water. But what she didn’t know was that it wasn’t a disused cold storage unit at all. The moment she walked away, it powered on. I shivered, shaking uncontrollably from the cold, screaming for help. My bloody handprints, etched with desperate pleas, covered the door and walls. Seven days later, she decided it was time for me to apologize. She sent someone to open the cold storage, only to find a frozen corpse. … Sylvia Albright spent the day busy, then glanced at the time. “It’s been three days. Has Daniel admitted his mistake yet?” “That man is as stubborn as they come!” Liam Thorne, her first love, entered, carrying a bowl of chicken soup. “Sylvia, let it go. He didn’t mean it.” “Three days is long enough,” he added softly. Sylvia’s expression softened instantly when she saw him. “You’re too kind, Liam. If only Daniel were half as understanding as you.” “Don’t be so angry,” Liam murmured, gently taking her hand. “He’s just too possessive of you.” At his words, Sylvia pulled out her phone and addressed her subordinate. “Has Daniel apologized?” “No, there’s no sound from inside, Ms. Albright. Could something be wrong?” “What could possibly be wrong? If he won’t admit his mistake, then let him stay there!” She hung up, her face reverting to its usual coldness. Liam Thorne, beside her, positively beamed with triumph. Sylvia Albright, you’ll never get my apology. Because, you see, I’m already dead. I died three days ago. That “disused” cold storage unit, the moment they walked away, hummed to life. I was alone inside, screaming to a sky that wouldn’t answer, to an earth that wouldn’t listen. At first, there were still voices outside the door. I pounded on it, begging, pleading, only to be met by the cold indifference of the guards. “Ms. Albright said you need to reflect, sir. Please don’t make things difficult for us.” “No! Please! The cold storage is on! Someone, help me!” But then, the voices outside vanished. They were gone. Initially, I tried to stay calm, searching desperately for a way out. But as the temperature plummeted, my thoughts scattered. All I could do was run circles, trying to generate some heat. In the end, I couldn’t even run anymore. My body felt like a block of ice. I curled into a corner, hoping to find a sliver of warmth. The unit had once stored seafood, but now, after the goods were moved, only empty shelves remained. I dragged them all in front of me, hoping to block the insidious chill. But it was useless. The moment I realized I was dying, my heart turned to ice. When I saw my own corpse, I actually flinched! There, in the corner, covered in frost, my eyes wide with despair. The door and walls were covered in my fingernail marks, my fingertips torn and bleeding. I was about to go closer, but the next second, I was swept away by an invisible force, drawn to Sylvia Albright’s side. Hearing her words now, I found them utterly ridiculous. Sylvia Albright, I paid for my “reflection” with my life. In the next one, I pray I never see you again! I stood beside them, watching Sylvia and Liam gaze into each other’s eyes. Liam pulled out his phone and handed it to her. “Sylvia, I booked tickets for the art exhibition. Will you come with me tomorrow?” “Alright. It’s getting late. You should get some rest.” Liam, however, held onto her hand. “I’m scared of the dark. Will you stay with me?” Sylvia’s shoulders stiffened. She sighed, then reluctantly rose. I’d forgotten. Liam was living in our house. After he returned from abroad, his first move was to contact Sylvia. He feigned helplessness, claiming he was unfamiliar with the area, and insisted on staying at our home. It was laughable. He was a native, but five years abroad had somehow made him a stranger in his own city? When I protested, Sylvia had simply looked at me with annoyance. “Daniel, his parents aren’t here. Do you know how dangerous it is for him to live alone?” I knew. Because before we got married, I lived alone in a rented apartment. Back then, Sylvia had told me, “Daniel, we need to respect ourselves. I don’t want to live together before marriage.” Thinking back, her double standards were a masterclass in hypocrisy. Sylvia accompanied Liam to the master bedroom. It was my room, originally. But the moment Liam arrived, he claimed it had the best light and he liked it, so Sylvia just handed it over to him. I watched, cold-eyed, as Sylvia led him to the master bedroom. Liam was about to leave when a flash of lightning streaked across the sky. CRACK! Thunder split the air. He shrieked and leaped into Sylvia’s arms. Sylvia’s body went rigid. Liam clung to her, trembling. “Sylvia, I’m so scared. Can you stay with me?” Sylvia’s hand hovered over his back for a moment, then patted him gently. “Alright.” At that moment, I felt like a complete clown. Because I was terrified of thunder too. I remembered when I lived alone, a sudden thunderstorm erupted at night, lightning flashing, thunder booming. The power went out, and my face went white with fear. I called her, hoping she’d comfort me. But what did Sylvia say? “How old are you, still so scared of thunder? Daniel, are you even a man? Don’t use such tactics to get my attention. You’re an adult now, independent. Behave, okay?” She hung up. That night, I huddled under my covers, relying on my phone’s flashlight. I only managed to fall asleep when dawn broke. Thinking back now, I was truly pathetic. Sylvia didn’t care at all. With me, she always seemed to have a wall between us. I forced a bitter laugh. Even though I was dead, the thunder still made me feel a chill. I hugged my arms, trembling, wanting to leave, but I couldn’t move. I was stuck there, watching Sylvia embrace and comfort Liam. Liam, nestled in Sylvia’s arms, shot me a sharp, triumphant look. I sighed. Liam Thorne would always be Sylvia’s cherished first love, the one who got away. What was I to her? I shook my head, glancing outside. Even in death, I was afraid of thunder. But mercifully, the storm didn’t last long. An hour later, the thunder faded, and Sylvia left the room. Liam watched her retreating back, a triumphant smile on his face. He muttered to himself, “Sylvia Albright, you’ll always be mine. No one can take you away!” I was startled by his words. Even now, he was still obsessed with Sylvia. Then why did he leave her all those years ago? And Sylvia, too. If she couldn’t forget him, why did she marry me? Back in her own room, Sylvia acted unusually. She stared at a photo of me on her phone, her voice heavy. “Daniel, I hope you’ve learned your lesson. If you just humble yourself and admit your mistake, I’ll let you out!” I looked at Sylvia’s face and found it comical. Humble myself? Admit my mistake? What did I do wrong? Liam getting locked in the office wasn’t my fault! But Sylvia wouldn’t listen to my explanations. Because Liam, with his manipulative, “green tea” tactics, had said he didn’t blame me, Sylvia was convinced I was guilty. She locked me in that cold storage, causing my death, and now she still expected an apology from me? How ridiculous. Sylvia was a smart woman, capable enough to be a company CEO. She wasn’t brainless. But when it came to Liam Thorne, she became deaf and blind. The next morning, the guards watching the cold storage felt something was off. They reported to Sylvia, trembling. “Ms. Albright, should we let Mr. Hayes out? There’s been no sound from inside the cold storage, and that one bowl of water won’t last five days!” Sylvia hesitated, then her voice hardened. “Without food or water, a bowl of water can last ten days. If he’s so stubborn, then let him stay. I want to see how long he can hold out!” “But… but there’s no sound at all. We’re worried, what if Mr. Hayes…” “Don’t worry. Daniel is just faking it!” Sylvia’s single sentence had sealed my death sentence. The guards said nothing more. Just then, Liam Thorne walked in. Hearing Sylvia’s words, a faint smile played on his lips. “Sylvia, let it go. It’s been several days now, and I’m perfectly fine!” “No. He trapped you in that office for so long, he deserves to be punished.” Liam’s smile widened, though he said, “Sylvia, isn’t it too much? After all, he’s your husband.” “He… he did it because of me. I keep bothering you, making him jealous. Just let him out!” Liam’s words were sweet, seemingly advocating for me, but each sentence only served to condemn me further. Sylvia, predictably, fell for it. “Liam, you’re always so soft-hearted. Fine, for your sake, I’ll give him one more chance!” Liam’s face stiffened for a moment. He hadn’t expected Sylvia to say that.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “392838”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

To save the fake daughter’s scar, my brother forced me to switch skin with her. He tied me to the operating table with his own hands, ordering them to flay me alive. To ensure the skin graft was successful, they didn’t even give me anesthetic, letting me constantly fade in and out of consciousness from the unbearable pain. When the surgery finally ended, the operating room floor was saturated with my blood, leaving only a blood-soaked, barely breathing version of me, stripped of most of my skin. Faintly, I heard my brother’s voice from beyond the door: “No one is to help her without my command. This little pain, she must endure it twofold.” My blood drained away, drip by painful drip, and my wounds became repeatedly infected. On the verge of death, I wanted to say one last word to him, but then I heard his voice from the other end of the phone: “She’s just losing a bit of skin and already making a scene? Why didn’t you think about their pain when you hurt Seraphina? Want to see me? Only after you’re dead!” But when he truly learned I was gone, my brother went mad. 1 My urn was carried back to Willow Creek Orphanage by Eleanor Vance just as a group of men ransacked the place, overturning everything. The children screamed, their cries echoing through the rooms, but a tall, stern-faced man stood in the distance, a look of disdain etched across his features. He was my brother, Alexander. Eleanor shielded the terrified children behind her, her voice raw and hoarse. “Alexander, you tortured Audrey to death, literally. Why won’t you even spare her last bit of legacy?” Alexander’s face twisted in mockery. “Her face got messed up, so she can’t sell it anymore, and now she’s faking her death for money, is that it?” He sneered, then barked, “Tell her! Playing dead won’t work. Seraphina’s arm was clawed up. If she doesn’t get out here and give Seraphina some skin, I’ll tear this orphanage down, right now!” Eleanor swayed, barely able to stand. She clutched my urn tightly. “She can’t switch skin anymore, Alexander. Audrey is dead. She won’t be bullied by you people ever again.” Alexander glanced at the urn, an impatient flicker in his eyes, then suddenly reached out and swatted the box from her grasp. With a sickening crash, my ashes scattered across the cold, unforgiving floor. But Alexander wasn’t done. He raised his foot and ground his heel savagely into the pile of gray-white powder. Eleanor’s eyes widened in horror. She screamed and lunged forward, pushing him away with all her might. “You’re insane! She’s your own sister!” “I don’t have a sister as wicked as her!” Alexander kicked Eleanor away, then lifted his leg, stomping viciously on her fingers, grinding his foot down. “She’s so evil, shouldn’t her ashes be black?” He spat, “Honestly, you’re pathetic. You used to beg at my feet like a dog for money, and now, to scam me, you’ve even conjured up fake ashes!” Eleanor convulsed in pain, but her gaze remained fixed on my scattered remains. Her tears had dried up long ago, leaving only a choked, repeated question. “She’s your sister, she’s my Audrey! Why won’t you let her rest in peace, even in death?” Alexander impatiently kicked Eleanor again, unleashing his fury on her body. “I wish she’d died sooner, but how dare that menace die before atoning for her sins?” Each kick stirred my ashes. He only stopped when his bodyguard informed him that I hadn’t been found in the orphanage. With a disgusted grunt, he wiped the ash from his shoe onto Eleanor’s clothes, then abruptly pressed his foot down on her shoulder, as if trying to crush her bones. “Still protecting her, are you? Tell her to show herself by tomorrow morning, or this orphanage, and every single child in it, will suffer because of that blight!” The cruelty in his eyes was crystal clear. As he turned to leave, he couldn’t resist one last, savage stomp on my ashes. Dozens of bodyguards followed, their heavy boots crushing my remains, leaving countless dusty footprints in the courtyard. My heart shattered. I lunged forward, desperately trying to help Eleanor, who was still clutching my scattered ashes. My ghost form passed right through her, and a searing pain lanced through me, stealing my breath. Right. I was dead. Even if I were alive, I wouldn’t have a single patch of good skin left to give Seraphina. So, brother, please, let Eleanor go. Silence finally returned to the courtyard. Eleanor carefully shifted her body, gathering my ashes little by little. The small wooden urn, shattered into splinters, pierced her palms, drawing blood. But Eleanor seemed not to notice. She meticulously pieced the wooden box back together, then, with the reverence of someone handling a precious jewel, she placed every last speck of my ash back inside. When she finished, she composed herself, as if nothing had happened, and busied herself preparing dinner for the children. Only when she was completely alone did she allow herself to cough up a mouthful of blood. Trembling, she lifted her shirt. The bandages wrapped around her abdomen were soaked through with fresh crimson. I wept, my ghost form hovering over her. This was an old wound, left from when Eleanor had an incision made in her stomach and had countless blood samples drawn to raise money for my medical bills. But even then, it wasn’t enough. That’s why she had knelt before my brother, begging for a tiny loan. But Alexander was too busy showering Seraphina with gifts. When he saw Eleanor blocking his way, he kicked her without hesitation. Eleanor couldn’t get up for a long time that day. Blood pooled beneath her, yet she remained stubbornly determined to plead for a chance for me to live. But she knelt from dawn till dusk, and all she received was news of my death. Her old wound unhealed, now compounded by new injuries, Eleanor’s face was ashen, her lips pale. I clung to her, my tears flowing as uncontrollably as the blood soaking her abdomen. This woman, barely fifty, seemed to have reached her breaking point. Her hair, once raven, was now entirely white, making her look eighty. I clung to her, my soul wailing silently, a cry of utter despair. When I was five, Eleanor found me, lost and disfigured, a child no one dared approach. She took me into her home. When I was eighteen, afflicted by snake venom, abandoned by my family, she was the one who fought tooth and nail to pull me back from the clutches of death. After that, I stopped asking for anything else. All I wanted was to help Eleanor keep the orphanage safe. But in the end, that very wish became the death knell for the orphanage, and for Eleanor’s heart. 2 Before dawn broke, Eleanor, dragging her broken body, began packing the children’s belongings. But the next second, a bulldozer violently smashed through the orphanage gates. Eleanor didn’t hesitate. She rushed straight into the vehicle’s path. “Unless you roll over my dead body, you won’t lay a finger on this place!” A disdainful scoff came from the side. My brother’s luxury car window rolled down. “Then hand over that bitch, Audrey, or else you think I want to touch this filthy place?” Eleanor was barely standing. She struggled to pull a chair over and sat down, her snow-white hair whipped wildly by the morning breeze. “Audrey is already ash, Alexander. You stomped all over her yesterday.” Alexander burst into laughter. “Still so stubborn? Audrey’s probably crawling into some rich old man’s bed again. How much did she pay you to protect her like this?” Eleanor’s shoulders trembled violently. Finally, she couldn’t hold back, her trembling finger pointing at Alexander. “Alexander, she was your sister! She’s dead! Why do you still insult her like this?” “I don’t have a sister like her! My only sister is Seraphina!” Beside him, Seraphina’s small face was pale. She tugged gently at Alexander’s sleeve. “Brother, don’t be angry. I’ll just kneel and apologize to Sister, like I always used to. Every time I did that, Sister would forgive me…” She started to open the car door to get out. Alexander pulled her back instantly, his eyes filled with a tenderness I’d never seen directed at me. He was even red-eyed, holding Seraphina close. “My poor sister, you’ve suffered so much. It’s all my fault for not protecting you.” Seraphina forced a brave smile, her eyes red, tears streaming down her face no matter how she tried to wipe them away. “No, Brother. Every day I spend with you, I’m happy.” She carefully pulled up her sleeve, revealing gauze faintly stained with blood on her arm, looking utterly pathetic. “Brother, Seraphina doesn’t hurt at all. Seraphina just wants to be by Brother’s side, just wants Sister to tolerate me.” Those tears made Alexander clench his fist. He slammed his hand against the steering wheel, snarling my name as he comforted Seraphina. “Don’t worry. She has no say in our family. When I find her, I’ll make sure she suffers a fate worse than death!” But I was already suffering a fate worse than death. My ghost hovered beside Eleanor, my very soul tearing apart, gasping for breath. I had long given up on family affection. But Alexander, Seraphina only needed such a tiny patch of skin. Yet you had them strip so much from me. So much that I couldn’t possibly live. After comforting Seraphina, my brother gave a command, and a swarm of men immediately surged into the orphanage. The still-bewildered children were tossed outside. Eleanor’s cherished furniture and tables were brutally smashed. The ground was littered with broken pieces. Amidst the wails of the children, Eleanor desperately rushed forward, only to be knocked to the ground, spitting a mouthful of blood. She didn’t bother to wipe it away, instead trembling as she pulled a piece of paper from her chest. “Alexander, if you don’t believe Audrey is dead, you’ll surely believe the death certificate issued by the hospital!” Was it my imagination, or did I see my brother’s body momentarily stiffen? He finally stepped out of the car, but before he could take the death certificate, Eleanor’s phone lit up in front of him. It was an email I had scheduled to send to Eleanor! The glaring words “Audrey” stood out like some damning evidence. My brother suddenly let out a strange, guttural laugh. Then, without hesitation, he grabbed a nearby watering can and savagely smashed it against Eleanor. “We should really go into acting!” he raged. “I almost fell for that bitch’s trick again!” He slammed his foot down. “Since you’re so determined to seek death, fine! I’ll grant your wish! Bodyguards, move!” At my brother’s command, the roaring machines moved forward like devouring beasts. The building, filled with children’s laughter and my fondest memories, began to crumble. Eleanor, dragging her frail, withered body, desperately tried to stop them, stumbling and cutting herself all over. “No! That’s not it, that’s…” Her voice was drowned out by the enormous roar. I completely forgot I was dead, rushing to the front of the vehicles, trying to block them. I was simply passed through without mercy. I collapsed to my knees, frantically pounding the ground. Tears of bitter resentment rained down. Brother, why wouldn’t you just look a little closer? Those were all scheduled emails, brother. And every single one of them was my last will! Eleanor and the children were tightly cornered by the bodyguards, forced to watch helplessly as the orphanage collapsed with a thunderous roar. I cried until my entire body was numb, seeing the flicker of excitement in my brother’s eyes. I’d always known it; he didn’t just hate me, he hated this orphanage even more. Because it was here, once upon a time, that the most painful, most unspeakable humiliation had befallen him. 3 “Cough, cough…” Hearing Seraphina’s weak cough, Alexander rushed back into the car and closed the windows tightly. “Ugh, she’s as filthy as Audrey!” he muttered, then turned to Seraphina. “Seraphina, just hang on a little longer. We’re going straight back to the hospital.” Seraphina coughed the entire way. Alexander, frantic, immediately had Mr. Caldwell, the hospital administrator, waiting at the entrance, as if he could fly back. And all the while, he didn’t forget to curse me. “Audrey truly is a plague! If it weren’t for her, why would you be coughing so terribly?” When the test results came in, Alexander literally jumped out of his chair. Seraphina was experiencing severe rejection; if it worsened, she could die. The most effective solution was a blood transfusion from me. Before Alexander could even speak, Seraphina bravely tried to sit up, her eyes brimming with tears, fragile and delicate. “Brother, no, we can’t let Sister be hurt because of me again.” She wept. “It’s all my fault for taking Sister’s place. This is what I deserve, Brother, don’t trouble Sister for my sake anymore. Just let me go like this… I just… I can’t bear to leave you, Brother!” She then embraced him, crying as if her end was imminent. Alexander was heartbroken. “What nonsense are you talking about? How could I watch you die? You’re my precious heart! If you die, I won’t survive either.” He squeezed her. “Don’t worry. Whether she’s alive or dead, I’ll find Audrey and bring her back for the transfusion.” I watched their display of sibling affection with a cold laugh. Oh, so Seraphina did know she had taken my place? I was lured away and got lost at five years old, falling down a slope where a tree branch left a deep, gruesome scar across my face. Eleanor found me and raised me for five years. When I finally came home, I learned that ‘I’ had been at the Montgomery estate all along. She was Seraphina. My brother said it was to avoid public gossip, to have her temporarily fill my place. But when Dad and Alexander saw the twisted, centipede-like scar on my face, they never mentioned switching us back. From then on, my name was Audrey. Audrey, as in ‘quiet’ – the silent kind. The one who shuts up. After returning home, I received endless clothes and jewelry, but the look in their eyes held an undisguised disgust. Until a group of high-society girls were terrified by my face, screaming and crying. I was formally banished from the main house, forced to live with the servants. Yet, I clearly saw Seraphina hiding behind a pillar, smirking. My school, the lavish parties, my coming-out ball… everything that was supposed to be mine was stolen by her. Until the day I was set to enroll in college, Seraphina told me that my university spot had also become hers. I didn’t believe it, but she simply pulled out the acceptance letter. The name on it had indeed changed to Seraphina. Before I could erupt in fury, she leaned in close, her eyes alight with unconcealed triumph. “Everything of yours will be mine, including that face of yours. I’m the one who cut it, you know.” A long-forgotten sensation flashed through me: my face, it had been cut by a stone! I couldn’t hold back any longer and slapped her. But the next second, Alexander shoved me, and my hand seemed to brush against something cold. Dad, Alexander, and Seraphina rushed to the hospital, not even sparing me a glance. A searing pain shot through my arm. I turned to see a snake, its fangs deeply embedded in my flesh. I frantically shook it off, but the venom had already begun to take hold. With my last ounce of strength, I dialed emergency services. When I woke up, the one by my side was Eleanor. After that day, Alexander paid me 500,000 to get rid of me, throwing me out of the family home. At that point, Seraphina had truly stolen everything from me. So, was my skin, my blood, even my very life, all part of her elaborate plan? Then go ahead and search. I’m now curious to see what my brother’s reaction will be when he discovers that even my ashes have been scattered by his own hand.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “392837”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

He plunged from the cruise ship, ending his life—my husband, on our honeymoon, just moments after learning his first love was gone. It was then I realized he had never truly let go of Julia. Reborn into our youth, he resolutely cast my hand aside, striding purposefully towards his first love. I watched them walk away, then turned and left. From that moment on, our lives became two parallel lines, never to intersect again. Ten years later, we met again at a lavish banquet in Star Harbor City. He was now a rising star among the elite, Julia clinging intimately to his arm as they made their grand entrance. Spotting me, an unexpected guest, he couldn’t resist offering a word of caution. “Don’t cling to me, Audrey. Even if you waited another ten years, I would never love you.” I ignored him, instead pulling my son, who was sneakily devouring cake, from a secluded corner. His eyes suddenly reddened. He seized my hand, gripping it tight. “How dare you try to spite me? Didn’t you say you’d only ever love me in this life?” 1 I never imagined, not in this lifetime, that I would ever cross paths with Zack again. At a high-society banquet in Star Harbor City, he stood amidst the glittering crowd, Julia on his arm, his smile elegant and refined. Not a trace remained of the awkward youth I once knew. Those around him beamed with obsequious grins, their voices dripping with flattery. “Mr. Blackwood’s future is limitless, truly! Securing that provincial project at such a young age!” “And this must be your lovely fiancée, sir. A truly charming couple, the envy of everyone!” Julia gazed at Zack with deep affection, her voice soft and melodious. “We’re planning our wedding for the end of the year. Please, if you’re free, we’d be delighted for you to join us.” A fresh wave of congratulations washed over them. Then, someone, with perhaps a bit too much curiosity, piped up, “I heard you two have been together for ten years. Why are you only getting married now?” That question piqued my own interest. In my previous life, Zack had loved Julia so deeply that he willingly followed her to his death. And when he was reborn, he had immediately broken up with me, without a moment’s hesitation. I had assumed they would marry right after graduation. I never thought they still hadn’t tied the knot. At the question, a flicker of stiffness, almost imperceptible, crossed Zack’s face. He quickly masked it with a practiced smile. “A strong foundation takes time, you see. I wanted to build the very best life for Julia.” He looked at her, his eyes overflowing with such tender affection it threatened to spill over. In my previous life, when I was with him, I had asked him countless times when we could marry. It wasn’t until his family pressured him that he grudgingly nodded, agreeing to be with me. It was clear then, the stark difference between true love and mere obligation. I was about to turn and leave when my eye caught a small, fleeting shadow. My body instinctively followed it. *Smash!* Champagne splattered across the floor. The server, holding a tray, looked at me with an indignant glare. “Where did you sneak in from? Are you blind?!” His voice wasn’t quiet, drawing the attention of everyone nearby. When he saw my face, Zack gasped, stunned. “Audrey? What are you doing here?” I lowered my head, apologizing to the server, and explained, “I’m just here looking for someone.” Someone, curious, asked Zack, “Mr. Blackwood, do you know her?” Zack’s hand, holding the champagne flute, tightened. His gaze hardened. “Yes. Just an ex-girlfriend.” Someone nearby, with a bit too much enthusiasm, blurted out, “But you two were together for ten years! I thought you were each other’s first loves!” Julia’s smile thinned a fraction. She took Zack’s hand, her voice light and dismissive. “Oh, we were young then, just a silly little spat. Who hasn’t taken a wrong turn in their youth?” Zack didn’t speak. His gaze swept over me, then settled on the server. “Charge the damages to my tab. Let her go.” He stood there, his expression calm. Aside from that first stunned glance, he didn’t spare me a single extra look. It seemed he was determined to draw a clear line between me and his “mistake” in front of Julia. The server quickly ushered me towards the exit. “Mr. Blackwood is being gracious, cleaning up your mess. Don’t expect it again.” He glanced at my crumpled pajama top, a look of distaste on his face. “This isn’t a place for the likes of you. Just leave.” I pulled my arm free from his grasp, explaining patiently. “I’m here to find someone. Once I do, I’ll leave on my own.” The server scoffed, rolling his eyes. “I’ve seen plenty of gold-diggers like you. Do you even have the right to be at a banquet like this? If you don’t leave, I’m calling security!” “Wait.” Zack’s voice came from behind him. He looked at me, sighed, and said with a hint of resignation, “She’s here for me. Let me talk to her.” Julia stood beside him, possessively wrapping her arm around his shoulder. “Audrey, Julia and I are getting married soon. I imagine anyone with an ounce of self-respect wouldn’t come seeking out an ex at a time like this.” Zack’s face darkened slightly. He couldn’t help but try to reason with me. “Don’t cling to me, Audrey. Even if you waited another ten years, I would never love you.” He continued, “My being with you was just a mistake. Now that I finally have a chance to correct it, I hope you can put the past behind you.” Julia surveyed me from head to toe, a sneer twisting her lips. “I can understand why you’d seek out Zack, I suppose. After all, he’s a renowned entrepreneur now, and there’s no shortage of people scrambling to butter him up.” Perhaps my crumpled pajama top gave her a burst of confidence, for Julia puffed out her chest, her voice haughty. “You did go to a prestigious university, didn’t you? How have you fallen so low? If I were you, I wouldn’t dare show my face!” Zack frowned, pulling out his phone, a hint of impatience in his tone. “If you feel I wronged you when we broke up, I can offer you a settlement now.” He paused. “Is five hundred thousand enough?” His fingers moved across the screen, then abruptly froze. “You… you deleted me?” 2 I felt a pang of bewilderment. Why was he reacting so strongly? Deleting an ex after a breakup was perfectly normal, wasn’t it? Besides, I had someone at home who was incredibly possessive. If he found out I still kept an ex-boyfriend’s contact information, he’d probably throw a tantrum. “Didn’t you say you hoped I wouldn’t come looking for you after we broke up?” I asked. Zack’s face turned cold. He looked as if he wanted to say something, but held back. My voice was calm, almost detached, as I added, “And there’s no need for a settlement. I don’t need it.” One setback after another, Zack’s expression grew even darker. He said coldly, “What are you putting on an act for? If it weren’t for how pathetic you look right now, I wouldn’t even bother talking to you.” Julia, seeing his irritation, immediately offered him gentle comfort. “Oh, dear, she did go to a good school. Given how utterly miserable she looks now, why don’t we just consider it an act of charity?” Zack scoffed, “Julia, you’re always so kind. If you ask me, what’s there to bother with a woman like this? Look at her, so grimy. Just tell her to get out.” His voice was full of contempt, as if he’d forgotten that ten years ago, he was far more wretched than I was now. In my previous life, Zack’s family had vehemently opposed his relationship with Julia precisely because she was known for her questionable morals and her penchant for taking shortcuts. The first time I met Zack in college, he had just picked Julia up from an exclusive lounge, forced by his family to break up with her. During his lowest point, it was I who stayed by his side, helping him through it. He loved photography, so I used the money I’d saved for my startup to buy him tens of thousands in equipment. Through harsh winters and scorching summers, my frail frame carried dozens of pounds of gear, just hoping to see him genuinely smile. Who would have thought that Zack was the one who first confessed his feelings to me? I knew about his past with Julia, and I’d occasionally seen him staring blankly at old photos of them together. So, when he proposed, I asked him very seriously, “Have you truly let go of Julia?” He held me tight then, his voice firm. “Honestly, I never loved her. I only saw her as a very good friend. It’s you I love, Audrey. Let’s be together.” We dated for seven years. Even his own brothers couldn’t help but be surprised. “He was so infatuated with Julia, I never thought you two would last.” But what no one knew was that Zack had countless times privately refused my hints about marriage. “Audrey, I’m just not the marrying type. Isn’t it enough for us to just be together, like this, forever?” It wasn’t until Zack’s parents pressured him relentlessly that he finally agreed to marry. During our honeymoon, news of Julia’s unexpected car accident arrived. He leaped from the cruise ship, leaving behind only a suicide note. The note was filled from beginning to end with declarations of love for Julia, not a single word left for me. At the very end, he had written in blood: “Julia, in this life, I only want to love you. Now, I’m coming to find you.” My love for him, too, turned to ash at that very moment. So, when Zack wanted to break up with me after being reborn, I didn’t stop him. Because I knew it was futile. Watching them reunite, I deleted all of Zack’s contact information, believing we would never cross paths again in this lifetime. I never expected to encounter him here. I wanted to leave, but Julia wouldn’t let up. She seemed determined to humiliate me in front of everyone. “You think you’re worthy of speaking to me? Look at how you’re dressed, it’s embarrassing!” She continued, “How about this? I’ll get you a job here as a server. If you learn to serve people well, you could earn five figures a month.” Someone nearby, eager to curry favor, chimed in with a laugh, “This is a hotel in the most prestigious area of Star Harbor City! Working here would be a blessing for you. Hurry up and thank Ms. Julia!” I was surrounded, unable to leave for the moment. I said helplessly, “Thank you, but I already have a job.” I paused, then added, “As a photographer.” At the word “photographer,” Zack immediately looked at me. A complex expression flickered in his eyes, and his lips parted as if to speak. He turned his head, not looking at me directly, his tone cold. “Photography? How much money can that really make? Hobbies don’t put food on the table. Out of courtesy, since we’re all old acquaintances, I can arrange something for you.” I froze, instantly realizing he had misunderstood. 3 My love for photography wasn’t because I still harbored feelings for Zack. In fact, after reading that suicide note in my previous life, I had completely given up on him. It was just that when I was reborn, I found the money I had saved had already been used to buy photography equipment. I couldn’t sell it on second-hand platforms, so I just picked it up and started using it myself. And, surprisingly, I truly fell in love with photography. This time, it wasn’t to please anyone else; it was purely for myself. I politely declined Zack’s offer again, my tone courteous yet distant. “My hobby generates enough income for my living expenses, thank you for your concern.” Seeing my apparent ingratitude, a flicker of anger crossed Zack’s face. “You’re refusing the opportunity I’m giving you? Don’t come crying to me later!” I didn’t speak. I also didn’t tell him that my photography now earned me commissions for national publications and top international journals. The various copyright fees, when added up, were by no means less than Zack’s income. But if I told him, he’d probably just think I was boasting. After all, my rumpled pajama top certainly made me look humble. Speaking of which, it was my son’s fault. He insisted on playing in the sandbox with me, and the moment I turned my head, he’d slipped downstairs. I’d chased him out before I even had a chance to change. I was just trying to find an excuse to leave when that server from before seemed to notice something. He pointed at my clothes. “Balenciaga? Where did you pick up that outfit? You’re not one of the cleaners, are you, secretly taking things from guest rooms?” I couldn’t help but frown. “Can’t these clothes be my own?” Julia let out a mocking laugh. “Your own? Can you afford them? What wealthy person would dress so casually and wander around like you?” She made a show of pinching her nose. “So dirty, she probably put it on without even washing it first.” Zack looked at me, his brows furrowed so tightly they almost squeezed a fly to death. “Audrey, you’ve sunk to this, and you’re still being stubborn?” I didn’t want to engage with them, so I turned directly to the server. “If you truly believe I stole something, you can call the police right now.” I knew he was trying to curry favor with Julia, taking a jab at me. Sure enough, his bluster immediately deflated. He muttered under his breath, “If it weren’t for the important guests at the hotel today, and the fear of disturbing them, I would have called the police already.” Julia’s eyes lit up. She quickly interjected, “Is it Mr. Remington, the young master? I heard he’s in Star Harbor City with his family, staying at this very hotel.” Zack nodded, a hopeful glint in his eyes. “The project our company is working on… it would be incredible if we could get the Remington family’s support.” The mention of “Mr. Remington” was like water splashed into hot oil, instantly igniting a flurry of excited chatter. “Isn’t the whole point of this banquet to meet Mr. Remington? This entire building belongs to his family!” “I heard he’s only in his early twenties but already married with a child. I wonder which prominent family’s daughter he married.” As everyone discussed this, the lobby manager rushed in, sweating profusely, a team of people following him. “Ladies and gentlemen, has anyone seen a seven-year-old boy, about this tall?” The manager wiped his brow, frantically scanning the room. Someone quick-witted, seeing the commotion, immediately guessed what was happening. “Is it the young master of the Remington family? I heard he’s seven this year.” The banquet guests suddenly became eager, scattering to search for the boy. After all, finding him could be a golden opportunity to connect with the Remington family. Zack and Julia also joined the search, leaving me alone. I surveyed the chaotic lobby and walked directly to the dessert section. Sure enough, beneath the table, I found my son, his face smeared with cream. I stretched out my hand, my voice stern. “Come here.” My son jumped, clinging to the table leg, refusing to let go. “No.” I was about to pull him over when Julia suddenly appeared from nowhere, stepping in front of me, her voice indignant. “Audrey, what are you doing!” She demanded, “Even if you want to curry favor with the Remington family, you shouldn’t lay hands on a child!” Zack rushed over, his eyes filled with disappointment as he looked at me. “Audrey, I can’t believe you would do something like this for fame and fortune.” The server, seizing the opportunity, rushed to the manager, complaining. “This woman, she just burst into the banquet, and she even stole clothes from another guest!” The manager’s face immediately hardened. He called for security. “Grab this thief and take her straight to the police station! If she scares the young master, none of you will have jobs!” A hint of triumph flickered in Julia’s eyes. She bent down, putting on a benevolent smile for the young Remington boy. “Come here, sweetie, come to Auntie. Auntie will protect you.” My son completely ignored her. To everyone’s astonishment, he carefully reached out and took my hand. “Mommy, I’m sorry.”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “392836”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

On my wedding day, my best friend’s mother spread rumors that I had been a kept woman in college and had multiple abortions. When I found out, my first instinct was to call the police. Everyone urged me to prioritize the wedding, to ignore the gossiping hag. But then, people at the same table as the rumor-monger began live-streaming, and the story exploded. My mother-in-law, believing the lies, forced my husband to divorce me. Someone complained to my workplace, and I was fired. My parents, humiliated by the scandal in our village, disowned me. Under this relentless assault, I fell into a deep depression and jumped to my death. Then, I opened my eyes. I was back on my wedding day. 1 “Hold on.” I paused the makeup artist’s brush, lowered my gaze, and picked up my phone. It took only moments to find the live stream. Clicking in, I saw several middle-aged women chattering away animatedly. “What business is the groom’s family in? Such a grand affair!” “I hear they’re in hotels. Several properties, they say. Honestly, little Chloe here, she’s got talent. Pretty face, knows how to reel in men.” My phone, now on speaker, drew the attention of my bridesmaids. One of them leaned in, eyes widening in surprise as she recognized someone on screen. “Fiona! That’s your mom!” Fiona hurried closer. Her mother, Mrs. Rhodes, was still talking. “You know, my Fiona is actually prettier than Chloe, but she just doesn’t have that vixen-like charm Chloe does. Chloe’s chest is so big, all thanks to men. She’s been seducing boys since primary school, had a sugar daddy in college, would hook up with anyone for money, and had several abortions. Oh, the sin of it all!” At this, Fiona’s face went white. “Chloe, don’t listen to my mom’s nonsense! I’m going out there right now to stop her!” Before Fiona could move, I sprang to my feet with a whoosh and walked directly towards Mrs. Rhodes’s table. Fiona reached out to stop me. “Chloe, don’t go. Today’s your wedding day. I’ll go, I’ll talk to my mom properly. I promise she won’t say another word.” My friends behind me chimed in, urging caution. “It’s your wedding, Chloe. It’s not time yet. The bride shouldn’t be out there. It looks bad.” “Yes, Chloe, just bear with it. You know my mom’s mouth, she just can’t control it. I’ll go scold her right now. After today, I’ll make her apologize to you. Don’t let her ruin your big day.” Fiona’s face was a picture of sincerity, as if she truly had my best interests at heart. In my previous life, I hadn’t learned about this from a live stream. It was a relative, unable to stomach it any longer, who had come to tell me. I had listened to their advice then, swallowing the humiliation. I never imagined that the very next day, before Fiona could even bring her mother to apologize, the rumors would have already spread like wildfire. Because of those lies, I lost my husband, my parents, and my job. In the end, I was literally hounded to death. And Mrs. Rhodes, from start to finish, never uttered a single word of denial. Given a second chance, there was no way I would let this pass. After all, between a wedding and my life, I knew which held more weight. I ignored Fiona and strode purposefully towards the exit. When I reached Mrs. Rhodes’s table, she was still detailing my supposed abortions. “She was still in college then, how could she let her parents know? She borrowed money from my Fiona. My Fiona, being the loyal friend she is, secretly took my money, and that’s how I found out. The boy’s mother, she knows me too. Later, I confirmed it; her son definitely got little Chloe pregnant.” “Auntie, is that really true?” “Mom! What nonsense are you spouting?!” Fiona’s and my voices rang out simultaneously. Mrs. Rhodes flinched, startled. She turned, saw me, and offered an awkward smile, quickly trying to play it off. “Chloe, why are you out here so early?” I stared at her, my face a mask of shock. “Auntie, is that true? I had an abortion in college? You saw it?” 2 It had been a small circle of people who knew, but the moment I appeared and spoke, every eye in the room swiveled towards us. Mrs. Rhodes instantly became flustered. Fiona, mortified, tugged at her mother’s sleeve. “Mom, apologize.” Mrs. Rhodes stood up. “Chloe, I’m so sorry. You know your Auntie’s mouth, it just has no filter.” My eyes widened, a look of utter disbelief on my face. “So, you’re saying this is true then?” Mrs. Rhodes was about to say something when my parents and my fiancé also rushed over. “Chloe, what’s wrong?” My mother took my arm, her voice gentle. “Whatever it is, let’s talk about it calmly.” “Mom, Auntie here says I messed around with men in college, got pregnant, and had an abortion.” I said, my voice filled with feigned horror. “I have absolutely no memory of this! That man must have used some unspeakable means on me!” At this declaration, my mother’s face instantly darkened. She turned to Mrs. Rhodes. “Mrs. Rhodes, what is the meaning of this? My daughter’s wedding, and you’re here spreading rumors?” Mrs. Rhodes offered a placating smile. “I misspoke. I’ve already apologized to Chloe.” My mother turned back to me, trying to coax me. “Chloe, your Auntie Rhodes just loves to gossip. She’s already apologized to you, so just let it go.” My father also chimed in from behind me, “Yes, look at you! What’s with this display? All our relatives and friends are here. No one will believe these baseless rumors.” It wasn’t just my parents; everyone began to smooth things over. Seeing that the matter was about to be brushed aside, I let tears well up in my eyes. “No, no, no! Auntie Rhodes described it so vividly, how could it be false? I have no memory of anything like this happening, so it must have been done against my will! That man is a criminal! Auntie Rhodes, please, tell me who this man is! I’m going to call the police!” Hearing me threaten to call the police, Mrs. Rhodes, who had been laughing and trying to mediate, instantly lost her smile. She quickly said, “There’s no such person! Just say I made it all up, alright? Chloe, today’s your wedding day. I was wrong, I shouldn’t have said those things. Please, have a wonderful wedding. I’ll drink this tea as a toast, as my apology to you. Just pretend I was spreading rumors, okay?” Mrs. Rhodes raised her teacup and drained it. She looked at me, “Alright now?” I stared straight at her, as if deeply displeased by her gesture. Mrs. Rhodes felt my displeasure, yet also felt that as an elder, she had given me, the junior, due respect, and I was still being relentless. So she moved to leave, claiming she had spoiled the mood and shouldn’t stay. I quickly grabbed her arm. “No, Auntie, you can’t just leave like that.” Mrs. Rhodes looked at me, exasperated. “I’ve apologized. What more do you want from me? Do you want me to kneel down and kowtow twice?” I frowned. “Everyone heard what you just said. Since you claim it was a rumor, then clarify it for me. Right now, you get up on that stage and tell everyone that you were talking nonsense, that you love to gossip, and that everything you said earlier was just your imagination.” At this, Mrs. Rhodes’s face fell. She was already mortified enough having to apologize in front of so many people. Now I was forcing her to speak on stage. She instantly became displeased. “Chloe Bellwether, I apologized to you to save your face! Are you truly going to pretend that I wasn’t telling the truth? Let bygones be bygones. I offer that advice to you.” I tightened my grip on her hand. “So you’re saying it’s true then? In that case, tell me who this man is. Otherwise, if you’re just fabricating stories, I’ll sue you for defamation.” Mrs. Rhodes was successfully provoked. “That man’s name is Nathan Miles! You two were intimate when he was still married, you haven’t forgotten that, have you?” I flinched slightly. At the same time, Fiona’s face went from pale to flushed. 3 Mrs. Rhodes didn’t notice her daughter’s unusual reaction. She only saw my expression and immediately became smug. “Remember him now, don’t you?” Before I could speak, Fiona quickly grabbed her mother’s hand and pulled her towards the exit. “Mom, you’re really going too far! Today is Chloe’s wedding. Chloe and I are friends. How are we supposed to face each other after this?” Mrs. Rhodes huffed, “What are you afraid of? I already gave that little girl a chance. It’s her own fault for blowing things up. A friend like that isn’t worth having anyway.” Mrs. Rhodes wouldn’t know. Fiona wasn’t afraid of our friendship breaking apart. She was afraid of the truth being exposed. In my last life, I had always wondered how Mrs. Rhodes could remember such vivid details about a completely unfounded event. Listening to her speak just now, coupled with Fiona’s reaction, I had a bold idea. Once she uttered the man’s name, I was virtually certain. Someone had indeed been a mistress in college and had had an abortion. But that person wasn’t me; it was her own daughter, Fiona. I had seen Fiona getting into Nathan Miles’s car multiple times outside the university. I knew they had been involved for a while, but I didn’t know Nathan was married. There was also a period when Fiona was incredibly weak. I asked her what was wrong, and she said she was having her period. At the time, I didn’t understand how a period could cause such pain. Seeing the two of them about to walk out of the hall, I blocked Mrs. Rhodes again. “You can’t leave. You need to testify for me.” I insisted that I had no memory of this incident and no recollection of ever interacting with Nathan. Since she remembered it so clearly, she should go to the police station and tell them the whole story. If she refused, it meant she was fabricating the story. Mrs. Rhodes, however, thought I was deliberately playing dumb, trying to cover it up. She stopped moving and instead yelled at me, “Even if you don’t believe it, it’s true! I’m telling you, Nathan Miles is getting engaged here today! I’ll call him right now. Things won’t end well then!” I bristled. “Go on, call him over for a confrontation if you dare!” Mrs. Rhodes, spurred on, directly flung Fiona’s hand away, pulled out her phone, and made a call. Nathan Miles was indeed getting engaged right here. Within minutes, Nathan’s mother arrived. The moment she stepped in, Mrs. Rhodes grabbed her hand. “Your son, during his first marriage, did he get a college girl pregnant? Look, is it this girl?” I had expected Nathan’s mother to deny it in such a public setting. After all, it wasn’t exactly a proud moment. But to my surprise, she said quite proudly, “Oh, that was years ago! Who remembers those things? But yes, there was a young girl who kept chasing my Nathan around.” After speaking, she finally realized the setting, covering her mouth and chuckling. “Why did you call me here to talk about this?” Mrs. Rhodes beamed at me. “Chloe Bellwether, you heard that, didn’t you? Let’s just leave it at that. It’s your wedding today, so I’m giving you some face. I won’t spill all the details of your past.” With that, the two of them nonchalantly began discussing Nathan’s second fiancée, saying she was the daughter of Nathan’s boss, and that he was highly regarded. I spoke up, “This auntie only said there was ‘a young girl.’ Is this young girl me?” Everyone in the hall stretched their necks, craning to see us. The emcee urged several times that the auspicious time was about to begin. My parents, feeling utterly humiliated, came over and pulled me. “Chloe, what kind of occasion is this? You’re causing such a scene! Can’t you just sort this out after the wedding?” I shook my head vigorously. “I want to resolve this now! Otherwise, my reputation will be ruined!” My father, seething with anger, swore, “She’s already giving you face! Didn’t you hear her? Don’t press the issue! Do you even want to get married?” I looked up and saw my future husband and mother-in-law’s faces were as black as soot. The disgust in their eyes was overflowing. My mother-in-law said scornfully, “This is the ‘good’ daughter-in-law you picked for me? I said she was a slutty fox from the start, but you wouldn’t believe me.” My fiancé walked over, his tone deeply displeased. “Chloe, are these things true? If they are, then I’m afraid this wedding can’t go forward.” My mother-in-law added from behind him, “How utterly shameful. Doing so many filthy things, and then making such a huge scene about it.” Listening to their words, I felt even more wronged. My parents were only concerned with their own reputation, wanting to get the wedding over with. My fiancé thought my actions were humiliating. Yet, he and I had met in our freshman year of college, spending every day together for years. He knew better than anyone whether I had been pregnant. But in the end, he still believed those people. The three of them, who were supposed to be the closest to me, chose not to defend me when I was slandered. They wanted me to just endure it. Even though I had experienced all this in my previous life, my heart still ached uncontrollably. No one was standing up for me. So I would stand up for myself. I declared, “Even if I don’t get married, I will get to the bottom of this.” “Fine,” Mrs. Rhodes chuckled. “It’s not like we’re the ones being humiliated.” My mother quickly moved over, slipping a red envelope into Mrs. Rhodes’s hand. “Sister Rhodes, please be kind. Don’t quarrel with a child.” Mrs. Rhodes snorted coldly. “Out of consideration for our past friendship, I’ll let you off the hook. Everyone, just assume I was joking earlier, okay?” With that, the three of them began to walk out. I tried desperately to stop them. “You can’t leave!” But my parents held me in a death grip. Just as I couldn’t break free, two police officers entered the door, blocking Mrs. Rhodes and her companions. “Hello, we received a report that someone was assaulted while unconscious. Could the victim please identify themselves?”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “392835”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

The day she was found, the true daughter demanded to become CEO of the company. Considering her elementary school education and lack of experience, I refused. But she felt I was humiliating her, and turned to leave with her adoptive parents, vanishing without a trace. Under my leadership, the company soared, going public, and my adoptive parents became billionaires. On my thirtieth birthday, my husband and adoptive parents drugged me and sold me into an overseas compound. My adoptive parents and husband stood beside the facility’s manager, their faces twisted in malice. “This viperous woman is all yours.” I desperately demanded to know why they did this to me. My husband kicked me in the stomach, and my adoptive parents each slapped me across the face. “If you hadn’t been so vain, so greedy for our family’s wealth, refusing to give it up, Eva wouldn’t have been tricked and sold into that compound, tortured to death.” I couldn’t bear the torment and bit my tongue, bleeding out. When I opened my eyes, I was back on the day the true daughter demanded to take over the company. … “Pathy, dear, since I’ve come home, could you please give the company back to me? I want to take on my rightful responsibilities.” Hearing those familiar words, my body stiffened. I glanced at the clock on the wall, and in that instant, I realized I had been reborn. Mrs. Thorne, tears welling in her eyes, embraced Eva and looked at me. “Audrey, it’s been so many years, and we’re so grateful for your hard work with the company. But Eva is our biological daughter. Please, draw up a contract later and transfer the company shares to her.” In my previous life, when I heard Eva and my adoptive mother’s words, I immediately refused them. I explained that the company was in the midst of going public, and a change in leadership at such a critical time would cause chaos. Moreover, Eva had only an elementary school education and no work experience; she understood nothing about the company. It wasn’t suitable for her to take over now. Instead, I suggested she could work as my secretary first, learn the ropes, and then assume control later. My adoptive parents agreed to my suggestion. But Eva instantly panicked. She claimed that being a secretary meant merely serving me, fetching tea and water like a slave, and that I was deliberately humiliating her. She turned and ran out, leaving with her adoptive parents, and I never heard from her again. Under my leadership, the company successfully went public, and the Thorne family became the richest in Star Harbor City. On my thirtieth birthday, my adoptive parents and my husband took me on a trip abroad. They drugged me, and when I woke up, I was in a predatory compound. My hands and feet were severed, and I was tied to a bed, left to be tormented and defiled by anyone. My adoptive parents and my husband, however, stood with the compound’s manager. I desperately demanded to know why. My adoptive parents each slapped me, and my husband kicked me in my three-month pregnant belly. “If you hadn’t been so vain, so greedy for the company, deliberately humiliating Eva, she wouldn’t have died! This is all what you owe Eva!” It turned out that after Eva left, she went to a foreign country looking for work, was tricked, and ended up in one of those compounds, where she suffered endless humiliation and eventually died. That’s why they hated me so deeply. In the end, unable to bear the endless degradation, I bit my tongue and bled to death. Recalling the torture I endured in my previous life, I clenched my fists, seething with anger. I looked at Eva with cold eyes, letting out a mocking laugh. “Back for just a day and already wanting the company, huh?” Eva’s eyes immediately reddened, and she started to cry. “Pathy, I just want to do something for the family. I knew I shouldn’t have come back. Please don’t be angry, Pathy. I’ll leave right now. I promise I won’t disturb your family anymore.” With that, Eva made a show of pushing Mrs. Thorne away, as if to leave. Mrs. Thorne immediately wrapped her arms around Eva, holding her tightly, her face filled with pain. “Eva, this is your home. You’re not the one who should leave.” The next second, Mrs. Thorne slapped me across the face, pointing at me and screaming abuses. “Audrey Bellwether! We kindly took you in and raised you, and now you want to steal our family’s property and force our biological daughter away? How utterly wicked can you be?” Mr. Thorne also looked at me, his face displeased. “Audrey, the company belongs to our family. Isn’t it only right for us to give it to our biological daughter? What right do you have to drive my daughter away?” I let out a bitter laugh. They had forgotten. It was Grandpa Thorne who adopted me. After Grandpa Thorne passed away, he entrusted the company to me. At that time, the company was on the brink of bankruptcy, more than a hundred million in debt. It was I who spent every day pleading with banks and investors, pouring all my energy into saving the company. For that, I developed chronic health issues. The Thorne parents, knowing they lacked the ability to manage the company, had washed their hands of it, simply dumping it on me. And yet, I still gave them fifty million a month, letting them indulge in their leisure. Moreover, most of the company shares were acquired by me. I only kept the Thorne name out of gratitude to Grandpa Thorne. How dare they have the audacity to demand the company back? I looked at Mr. Thorne, letting out a cold scoff. “Three years ago, when the company was on the verge of bankruptcy, you threw me to the ruthless creditors, telling them I was the company owner, telling them to demand their money from me. Now the company is about to go public, and you want to give it to your daughter? Where do you get the nerve to say such a thing?” Mr. Thorne’s face flushed crimson from my words. He balled his fist and swung at me. “You little bastard! We Thorness raised you! It’s your duty to manage the company for us! The company can only belong to my daughter! You’re just working for my daughter!” I swiftly grabbed Mr. Thorne’s arm, twisting it back. He cried out in pain. In the business world, there was no shortage of dirty tricks and dangerous ploys. For that, I had studied Tae Kwon Do for three years. Mr. Thorne, who knew nothing but living a life of leisure, was no match for me. Mrs. Thorne rushed forward, preparing to slap me again. I blocked her hand and shoved her to the ground. Mrs. Thorne pointed at me, her hand trembling with rage. “Audrey Bellwether, you heartless wretch! You actually laid hands on us? You’re utterly depraved!” Eva hurried forward, helping the Thorne parents up, then knelt before me. “Pathy, it’s all my fault! I shouldn’t have come back and disturbed your family! Please, don’t hit Mom and Dad anymore! I’ll leave right now and never appear before you again!” Mr. and Mrs. Thorne immediately embraced Eva, glaring at me with cold eyes. “Audrey, you’re the one who should get out!” I rolled my eyes at them, then looked at Eva. “In that case, I won’t disturb your family reunion. I’ll have a lawyer draft a disownment agreement.” With that, without waiting for their reaction, I turned and left the Thorne mansion. Three days later, I was in a company meeting when my assistant rushed in. “Ms. Bellwether, Mr. and Mrs. Thorne are downstairs with your sister, making a scene and demanding to see you.” I frowned slightly, then followed her downstairs. Mr. Thorne saw me and immediately confronted me. “Audrey, this is our family’s company! What right do you have to keep us out?” At his words, I let out a bitter laugh. “If you had bothered to visit the company more than a few times, the security guards wouldn’t have stopped you.” Mrs. Thorne walked up to me, her voice deeply earnest. “Audrey, considering your years of dedicated service to the company, you may continue to work here. However, the company’s owner can only be Eva.” Mr. Thorne shoved me aside, pulling Eva forward and pushing her into the center. “From today on, the company will be taken over by my biological daughter. Audrey will assist my daughter in managing the company.” Eva walked to my side. “Thank you for your hard work all these years, Sister Pathy. I will work with you to manage the company from now on.” I let out a dismissive scoff. “And you are… what exactly? Do you truly believe anyone can be the company’s owner just by wanting it? By the rules, the company owner must have absolute majority shares.” Mr. and Mrs. Thorne immediately began shouting. “You’re utterly depraved! We Thorness raised you, and now you want to seize our family’s assets and bully our daughter! How can a person like you be fit to be the company’s owner?” My fiancé, Julian Hayes, also stepped forward. “Audrey, the Thorne family has been kind to you. You can’t be so selfish. Just give the company back to Eva. After we get married, you can stay home, raise our family, and I’ll support you.” Hearing his words, I curled my lips. “Julian, your engagement is with the Thorne heiress. Now that Eva is back, she is your fiancée. You and I have no connection whatsoever. And who exactly are you, to point fingers at me? Do you even have the right?” Julian’s face instantly flushed crimson with anger. Eva suddenly knelt before me. “Pathy, dear, I truly didn’t mean to take Julian from you. I just want to reclaim what belongs to me.” Julian’s heart ached. He immediately pulled Eva into his embrace, then threatened me. “Audrey, you have such a wicked heart! So utterly ruthless just to seize the company! How can a person like you be fit to marry me? If you don’t return the company to Eva, we’ll cancel the engagement!” I was tired of their theatrics. “So, you just want the company, right? I can give it back to you, but I have two conditions.” Julian thought I had been frightened into submission, and he smiled with satisfaction. “As long as you give the company back to Eva, we’ll get married right away. Isn’t that what you wanted?” I suppressed the urge to strike him and looked at the Thorne parents. “First, sign the disownment agreement. From this day forward, I will have no connection to the Thorne family.” I continued, “The company shares I hold were acquired by me. So, if you want them, you’ll have to buy them at market price.” The Thorne parents’ faces fell. “This is our Thorne family company! And you want us to pay for shares?” I replied indifferently, “When the Thorne family company went bankrupt, you sold all your shares. The shares I hold now are mine, and they have nothing to do with you. You don’t have to buy them if you don’t want to. The company is about to go public. When that happens, the stock price will multiply several times. There will be plenty of people who want to acquire them.” The Thorne parents gritted their teeth, then huddled with Julian for a long time. Finally, they agreed to pay a billion dollars for my shares. After signing the disownment and share transfer agreements, Julian embraced Eva, looking at me with a mocking smirk. “Audrey, since you want to be so ruthless, then get out of this company right now. From now on, this is Eva’s company.” Eva looked at me provocatively, nestling into Julian’s embrace. “Sister Pathy, I heard the company is going to partner with the Remington Group, the richest family in the country! The stock price will increase tenfold, easily! Thank you, Sister Pathy, for giving me such a wonderful opportunity!” My adoptive parents also looked smug. “Audrey, this is all your own doing. Even if you regret it now, it’s useless. But, out of consideration for our past relationship, if you’re willing to be Eva’s secretary and help her manage the company, we can give you a salary of fifteen hundred a month. At least you won’t starve to death. How does that sound?” I scoffed. Fifteen hundred a month for me to work like a dog for them? They truly thought I was an idiot. “No, thank you. I will have no connection to this company or to any of you from now on.” With that, I turned to leave. Julian angrily called out, “Audrey, don’t come crying to us when you’re starving on the streets!” I couldn’t help but roll my eyes. Who gave them the confidence to think that with a billion dollars, I would ever starve and beg them for anything? After leaving the company, I called Aunt Victoria, CEO of the Remington Group. “Auntie, please cancel the Remington Group’s partnership with the Thorne family.” After getting her confirmation, I called the Thorne family’s remaining shareholders, telling them to dump all their shares. A massive sell-off would undoubtedly destabilize the Thorne company, causing its stock price to plummet. And this was just the beginning.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “392834”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

My husband, an Interdimensional Traveler, was forbidden from falling in love with mortals from the small worlds. Yet, he was smitten with me at first sight. Each flutter of his heart was accompanied by a soul-shattering agony. He had endured ninety-nine such torments. Later, I was abducted and taken to the Crimson Zone, subjected to daily beatings and degradation, used as an instrument of torment. On the brink of collapse, I remembered the secret method Caspian had taught me, a way to connect with his otherworldly realm. Upon successful connection, however, I overheard Caspian’s conversation with his interdimensional mentor. “Caspian, how could you personally contact the Syndicate and have them abduct Sara? Isn’t she your beloved?” My husband’s voice was cold as steel. “This ordeal was originally meant for Lily, the supporting female lead. To save her, I had no other choice.” “Sara is the female lead of this world. She has the favor of the Cosmic Order; nothing could happen to her.” “Once this mission is complete, I’ll be able to stay in this timeline forever. Then, I will compensate her properly.” My heart shattered into a million pieces. As the villains closed in on me, I completely gave up the fight. 1 “Tsk, tsk, this girl’s got some backbone.” Another woman’s voice, laced with mockery, followed by a fresh wave of searing pain from my left leg. The soul-shattering agony finally forced a muffled groan from my lips. “Oh, finally decided to make a sound, have we?” The first woman seemed to perk up, her voice tinged with a morbid curiosity. I finally managed to pry open my eyes. The woman before me was heavily made up, her face alight with a disturbing, almost pathological excitement. In her hand, she held a glowing, red-hot iron rod, which she dangled before my eyes before abruptly thrusting it towards my chest. A choked scream tore from my throat. My chest felt as if it were being branded from the inside out, the burning sensation spreading, consuming every nerve. “That’s more like it. Where’s the fun if you don’t scream?” The woman smiled, satisfied, then pressed the red-hot rod into the other side of my chest. I bit down hard on my lip, fighting to stay silent. I knew the more I struggled, the more excited they became. I could only silently endure, praying for it all to end. My limbs had long been severed, leaving me like a broken doll, utterly at their mercy, to be tormented at their whim. “Which one is this now? Have we hit all eight torture methods?” Caspian’s voice, as clear and cutting as ever. “This is the seventh. Does it have to be this exact?” His mentor’s voice held a hint of reluctance. “You know perfectly well Sara was the one who saved you back then. Why are you so determined to repay Lily instead?” My eyelashes fluttered. During that landslide, it was I who fought tooth and nail to dig him out of the rubble, carrying him to safety until I collapsed from exhaustion. When I woke, however, he adamantly insisted Lily was his savior. No matter how much I explained, he wouldn’t believe me. Turns out, it wasn’t a matter of belief. He had deliberately chosen to act this way. “My marriage to Sara has already wronged Lily’s devoted heart. I don’t want her to suffer this fate.” “A woman who endures this, her life is ruined.” Caspian sighed, his voice filled with helplessness and guilt. I lay on the filthy cot, tears streaming down my face as I laughed. He knew that a woman’s life would be ruined by such an ordeal, yet he was still so cruel to me. He professed to love me, yet he personally pushed me into this hell. Doesn’t that count as wronging me? A sharp pain lanced through my abdomen. I gasped for air, a choked cry escaping my lips. A man nearby shouted in alarm, “She’s bleeding profusely! Is she… is she pregnant?!” The mentor’s voice also grew tense. “Caspian, Sara is fading. She…” “Don’t tell me the details. It’ll hurt too much.” Caspian interrupted him anxiously, his voice laced with pain. “Alright, let’s proceed with the last one.” “What?!” The mentor exclaimed. “She can’t take any more! She’s already…” “Stop talking! No matter what happens to Sara, I will love her.” “It must be exactly as written, otherwise the plot will repeat itself for Lily.” Caspian’s tone remained utterly unchanged, sounding like a demon’s whisper in my ears. Soon, someone brought a dozen long steel spikes. Even in my despair, I couldn’t help but shrink back in terror. I was indeed pregnant. Before this overseas mission, I had found out I was three months along. I had planned to tell Caspian the good news after the mission. He had always yearned for a child, dreaming of a happy future for our family of three. I had believed we would have a happy home. Before I could react, crude hands seized my limbs. Immense pain flooded my entire body. I watched, horrified, as one massive steel spike after another was driven into my flesh. I was on the verge of fainting from the agony, but they had injected me with an awareness serum. I remained horrifyingly lucid, clearly feeling every agonizing detail of this hellish torment. “She really is pregnant, it seems. What a sin…” The man holding the pliers looked at my blood-soaked lower body, turning away with a hint of revulsion. My child couldn’t endure the torment of my body. In a haze, I heard Caspian’s voice, carrying an almost imperceptible tremor. “Sara, you must hold on. Once I complete my mission, I’ll be able to stay in this timeline forever. Then, I will compensate you properly.” Compensate me with what? With his so-called love? I let out a bitter, silent laugh. Tears wouldn’t even come anymore. Those scumbags dragged me from the ground like a dead dog, their faces twisted in leers. They threw me into a foul-smelling water dungeon, leaving me to fester in the icy, filthy water. I don’t know how long passed, but finally, the cell door opened. Caspian’s figure appeared, backlit, his face etched with such obvious anxiety and heartbreak that it looked as if he might cry at any second. He rushed forward, pulling me into his embrace, his voice trembling. “Sara, my darling, I’ve come to save you.” 2 I lifted my head, my gaze hollow as I looked at him. The face I once deeply adored now filled me only with a profound sense of alienation and disgust. “Didn’t you say you always had my location, that you’d always be the first to come save me?” His expression stiffened. He then explained, guiltily, “I’m sorry. The foreign environment was too complex; I was delayed for quite some time.” He held me tighter. “I’m so sorry, Sara. It doesn’t matter what’s happened, I love you.” Love me? I let out a cold laugh, as if I’d just heard the most ridiculous joke imaginable. He didn’t notice my abnormality, or perhaps, he chose to ignore it. He took off his coat and wrapped my wounded body in it, then swept me into his arms and raced out. He brought me to a hospital. My colleagues, upon hearing the news, rushed to my side. Seeing me, barely human, a grotesque shadow of my former self, even they—who had witnessed countless horrors—couldn’t help but gasp. I was rushed into surgery. The tendons in my limbs had been severed, and my entire body was covered in massive infections and festering wounds. The doctor shook his head and sighed throughout the procedure. The anesthetic had no effect on me, but I didn’t even have the strength to moan. After the surgery, I was moved to a private room. Caspian came. He sat by my bedside, and his cold tears fell onto my face. “Sara, I’m so sorry. I’ll never let you suffer again.” If this were before, seeing him like this, I would have immediately woken to comfort him, telling him I was alright. But now, I felt only revulsion. A sound came from the doorway. “Caspian, darling, are you hungry? I bought you some breakfast.” It was Lily. Caspian released my hand, turning his head away as he refused. “I can’t eat. You go ahead and eat. In three hours, you’ll take the flight back home. It’s not safe here.” “I don’t want to go alone! I’m scared. Will you come with me, please?” Lily’s voice was laden with a heavy, childish whine. “No, I have to stay with Sara.” Caspian refused without a second thought. “But I’m truly so scared.” Caspian hesitated, as expected. He finally gave in. “Alright, I’ll go give the orders.” He always said he only loved me, but when it came to Lily, he was always soft-hearted, unable to deny her any request. The moment he turned to leave, Lily revealed her true colors. She walked to my bedside and casually slapped me across the face. “You’re awake, aren’t you? Stop pretending. We all know you were given that awareness serum.” Lily looked down at me, her eyes filled with mockery and triumph. “I hear your limbs are completely crippled now. How pathetic.” I struggled to open my eyes, my gaze cold as I stared at her. “Even like this, you’ll never be Mrs. Hayes.” She loved Caspian with a mad obsession, but tragically, Caspian never returned her feelings. Lily’s expression shifted. She suddenly gave a disdainful laugh. “Don’t be so smug! You don’t know, do you? Caspian’s sending me back.” Her smile widened into a malicious sneer. “It’s to steal your credit! Your success in capturing the fugitive, it’s all going to be mine now!” My eyes widened in fury. I strained with all my might, forcing a few words from my throat: “You… shameless wretches!” Caspian had said he was worried about me, and followed. But it wasn’t to worry about me; it was to send me to my torment. Now, even the credit for capturing the criminal, a feat for which we sacrificed two brothers, was to be placed on Lily’s head. Lily picked up a syringe, and without hesitation, plunged it into my vein. “You might as well die. You’re already like this. Living is just prolonged agony.” She smiled malevolently, like a venomous snake flicking its tongue. “This is a septic agent. Caspian was afraid you’d interfere, so he had me inject you.” She chuckled, “Goodbye. Try to steal my man again in your next life!” She laughed, a sharp, triumphant sound, and then sauntered away. Less than five minutes after Lily left, my vital monitors began blaring shrill alarms. Doctors and nurses swarmed in, a chaotic frenzy. “It’s bad! The patient’s vital functions are dropping! Her blood coagulation is failing! If this continues, she’ll die from infection! Get her back to the mainland now! We have coagulation agents there!” “There are no flights going abroad right now!” My colleagues were frantic. Suddenly, a colleague seemed to remember something, exclaiming, “Wait! Caspian requested a private helicopter! He can take Sara back!” A flicker of hope ignited within me. I wanted to live. Everyone rushed to push my gurney towards the airport. At the airport, we just happened to encounter Caspian and Lily, who were about to board. Clara rushed forward, grabbing Caspian’s arm, shouting anxiously, “Quick! Let Sara go first! Her condition is critical! If she doesn’t get back to the mainland, she’ll die!” 3 Caspian rejected her without a second thought. “No, the helicopter can only carry two people. I have to take Lily back now. It’s too unsafe here.” His voice was firm, without a hint of hesitation. Clara roared, “Sara is dying! She’s your wife! Is she less important than taking Lily back?!” Lily, however, put on a frail act, timidly saying, “Caspian, darling, it’s okay. Sara might be jealous. You go back to the mainland with her. I’ll be fine here alone.” Caspian, who had been wavering, solidified his resolve upon hearing Lily’s words. “Sara will be fine. Her injuries were stable just now. Don’t try to trick me by helping her.” He said, pulling Lily towards the helicopter. Clara cried, grabbing him, “Sara is truly fading! Are you abandoning her?” He coldly flung Clara’s hand away, his gaze icy as he looked at me, his voice heavy. “Sara, be sensible. I’ll take Lily, and then I’ll come back for you. Don’t be silly with jealousy.” But Caspian, I wasn’t jealous. I was truly dying. I lay on the stretcher, in too much pain to speak, feeling my vital functions draining away, my consciousness blurring. Caspian removed his goggles and walked towards me. The oxygen mask was gently pushed aside. His warm breath fell on my ear. “Wait for me for six hours.” He touched my festering lips. His thumb still bore the scar from where he’d burned himself testing the temperature of my porridge. “When this is all over, I’ll take you to see the cherry blossoms. Haven’t you always wanted to?” I didn’t want to see cherry blossoms, and I didn’t want to wait for him. I watched, horrified, as Caspian took Lily onto the helicopter. I watched the propellers spin, watched the helicopter ascend higher and higher, eventually disappearing into the sky. I had never imagined he could be so heartless. That he would abandon my life for another woman. With great effort, I pulled my phone and the thin pregnancy report from my clothes, handing them to Clara. “Give the recording on my phone to HQ. Don’t let Lily claim our victory. And this…” I paused, my breathing becoming more difficult. “Give this to Caspian. Tell him I will never forgive him!” Clara froze, her eyes instantly reddening. “Sara, you must hold on! We’ll find another helicopter!” She cried, “Sara, I’m so sorry! We’re useless, we couldn’t stop them…” “It’s too late…” I smiled weakly, feeling my life ebb away, moment by agonizing moment. “Just burn my body. Don’t give the ashes to Caspian. I never want to see him again…” With my last words spoken, my eyelids could no longer hold, slowly drifting shut. My colleagues around me removed their hats, saluting me. A silent farewell spread through the air. Meanwhile, a thousand miles away, Caspian’s interdimensional communicator suddenly blared a harsh alarm: [The female lead of this world has fallen. A new female lead will be chosen.] [The Cosmic Order has decreed Lily the new female lead of this world.] The file in his hand clattered to the ground.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “392833”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

1 Andrew Miller asked for a divorce the moment his mentor’s daughter confirmed her pregnancy. “Her reputation matters, Elle,” he’d said, his voice flat, devoid of real apology. “It’s just for show, don’t overthink it.” Even our son, Jack, chimed in, echoing his father’s words with a saccharine sweetness that grated on my nerves. “You always talk about gratitude, Mom. Besides, it’s Dad’s child. Don’t make things harder for him.” Everyone braced themselves for a screaming match, for tears, for the inevitable outburst. But I just nodded, a silent, hollow acceptance. I signed the papers without a fuss and, just as swiftly, married Tim Thorne, the man who had saved my life years ago. Because in my past life, when I clung desperately to the marriage, refusing to let go, Andrew and Jack simply abandoned me, vanishing without a trace. I became the city’s laughingstock, a shell of my former self, never truly recovering. So this time, I accepted the divorce with a quiet resolve and simply disappeared from their lives. Six years later, at an exclusive, high-society gala aboard a luxury cruise ship. Andrew and Jack, his son, elbowed their way through the swirling dancers, grabbing my wrist with a furious grip. “I said it was just for show, Elle! Where the hell have you been all these years?!” I was taken aback, but only for a split second. A split second later, my sweet little girl, a bundle of sunshine, tumbled into my arms. “Mommy, who are you talking to? Daddy’s looking for you!” When I saw Andrew again, I was on the ship’s deck, nursing a drink, clad in a sleek, silk mermaid gown. I’d been up until dawn working on designs and hadn’t wanted to show my face, but as the wife of the cruise line’s owner, I had no choice but to attend. I sighed, my glass still mid-air, when abrupt footsteps pounded behind me. The next thing I knew, I was spun around, caught in an unexpected grip. Both Andrew and I froze. His pupils contracted, his voice a strangled gasp of disbelief: “Eleanor! It really is you! Where have you been all this time?!” My expression remained calm, but before I could answer, Tiffany Hayes, standing beside him, shrieked, her voice dripping with feigned concern: “Elle, darling, you’re so thin now! I remember when you were too self-conscious to even show your face!” Jack snickered, a childish, cruel sound. He’d shot up quite a bit in the years since I’d seen him, but the arrogant smirk on his face was a carbon copy of Tiffany’s. He’d clearly caught Tiffany’s subtle jab, and a mocking smile played on his lips. “Aunt Tiffany, stop it. You know Mom’s got a thin skin. She’ll be crying any minute. What’s the point? You’re not exactly model material anyway.” Jack’s tone was thick with disdain, exactly as it had been every time he’d mocked me in the past. Mocking my weight, my intelligence, and the fact that I was “just a housewife” with “no personal appeal.” But before our marriage, I was a rising star, a celebrated talent in the fashion world. Major fashion houses had practically thrown themselves at me, eager to collaborate on designs. But after I married Andrew, everything shifted. He constantly accused me of neglecting our home. He systematically brainwashed me, insisting that a “good wife” and “good mother” didn’t seek the limelight. One day, he even sent emails to my partners, pretending I was retiring from the industry. I woke to find my career annihilated, and I screamed and cried like a madwoman. He simply told me, with infuriating nonchalance, to “calm down.” From that day on, I was a bird with clipped wings, devoting myself entirely to domestic life. Yet, in our seventh year, he began an affair with his mentor’s daughter, claiming she was “dazzling” and “reignited his passion.” As I drifted through these bitter memories, Tiffany’s syrupy giggle broke through. She cooed, with mock kindness, “Elle, dear, even if you can’t be a model, don’t be too hard on yourself. You could always apply to be a hostess. I have a friend who’s a hotel manager. They’re hiring hostesses for about three thousand a month. Want me to put in a word for you?” Jack burst out laughing before she’d even finished. “Aunt Tiffany, stop it. You know Mom’s got a thin skin. She’ll be crying any minute.” He puffed out his chest, pointing to a raised stage nearby. “Aunt Tiffany was invited to walk the runway tonight! For a really famous designer’s collection!” I blinked, a strange urge to laugh bubbling up inside me. 2 Because I was that designer. And this fashion show was a prelude to my husband, Tim Thorne’s, corporate event. We’d specifically invited high-profile models, and I distinctly recalled scanning the roster – Tiffany Hayes was not on it. Then, it clicked, like lightning striking. One of the models had an unexpected emergency, and Tiffany was brought in as a last-minute replacement. Checking my watch, I met her gaze, my voice flat. “Shouldn’t you be backstage getting ready by now?” Tiffany’s face stiffened, clearly offended by my tone. “Don’t pretend to know everything, Elle. What do you know? It’s still early!” My brows furrowed. Such unprofessionalism. No wonder she’d gone nowhere in all these years. Seeing me alone, Tiffany suddenly linked her arm through Andrew’s, her voice turning saccharine sweet. “Elle, dear, is something wrong? This cruise ship isn’t exactly easy to get onto. I’ve heard some people sneak in with unsanctioned tickets, hoping to snag a rich husband.” Her implication was clear. Andrew’s gaze lingered on me, a complex expression on his face, then flickered to my gown. His voice, surprisingly, held a tinge of sadness. “Eleanor, that’s not something you’d usually wear. Did you rent it? Or borrow it?” He pulled out a card and offered it to me. “Here’s thirty thousand. You’re still Jack’s mother, after all. I can’t just stand by and watch you stumble into trouble. I thought when you left so decisively, you’d found something better. I never imagined you’d end up like this…” His voice trailed off, laced with a smug, almost pitying regret. Tiffany covered her mouth, giggling. “Perhaps it’s a replica, Elle. Don’t be embarrassed. This money is nothing to us, but it might help you avoid looking so… desperate.” But before her words fully hung in the air, a young woman’s voice cut in. “That’s no replica. The craftsmanship and fabric are unmistakable. Plus, it’s one of Thorne Design’s latest pieces – almost impossible to get your hands on.” Tiffany’s face froze. She spun around, ready to snap, then her eyes widened. It was Brenda Walsh, an old acquaintance. Brenda’s face lit up. She embraced Tiffany warmly. “Darling, what a surprise to see you! How have you been? We completely lost touch after you got pregnant years ago!” She glanced at Jack, a hint of confusion in her eyes. “Is this your son? He looks a bit… old for the timeline.” Tiffany’s composure faltered. She forced a strained smile. Her voice came out strained. “There… there was an accident. I lost the baby.” I felt a flicker of surprise, yet it wasn’t entirely unexpected. Andrew had severe fertility issues. I never told him, wanting to spare his pride. Behind his back, I’d endured countless fertility treatments and injections, even a massive hemorrhage, almost losing the baby myself. But Andrew, far from comforting me, had endlessly condemned me during my postpartum recovery. I cried for three days straight until my vision blurred, then faded. Only then did I realize I couldn’t afford to cry anymore. The past was a grimy, tattered rag I desperately wanted to wring out and discard. I sighed inwardly, pushing the ugly memories away. Brenda offered a few awkward condolences, then excused herself. I checked my watch, deciding it was time to leave too. But Tiffany grabbed my arm, her fingers digging deep into my skin. Her face crumbled, eyes blazing with hatred. “You’re thrilled, aren’t you? That my baby is gone! It’s all your fault! Andrew was constantly out searching for you, never home! That’s why I got so upset, and I miscarried! You… you murderer!” The pain made me instinctively push her away. Then I froze. He was looking for me? For what purpose? Wasn’t he the one who insisted on the divorce in my last life? Besides, what did Tiffany’s miscarriage have to do with me? Andrew’s fertility issues made it a high risk from the start. And she was starving herself. It was her own doing. 3 I stared at the raw, red marks on my arm, thin lines of blood blooming against my fair skin. Tim would spot them instantly. Given how fiercely protective he was, I worried what might happen. But the next moment, Andrew stepped in front of me, his face contorted in anger. He helped a sobbing Tiffany to her feet, then turned on me, his voice a harsh command. “Eleanor, apologize!” A shiver ran through me, instantly dragging me back to the past. Once, I’d added too much salt to a dish, and Tiffany, who was eating it, had immediately burst into tears, claiming I was jealous of her figure and trying to make her fat. Without a word, Andrew had shoved me to the ground, leaving me to grovel like a dog with no dignity. The memory was vivid, burning. My fingernails bit into my palms. But that was then, and this was now. I wouldn’t stand by and let myself be slandered like some cheap floozy. So I scoffed, a single, disdainful word escaping my lips: “Dream on.” Jack, mid-wipe of Tiffany’s tears, paused. He turned to me, his voice sharp with manufactured disappointment: “You’re so wicked, and you don’t even care! I wish I didn’t have a mother like you!” He’d uttered that exact line more times than I could count. Giving birth to him had been a struggle, which was why I’d always doted on him, always indulged him. Even his most outrageous demands were quietly met. But if he thought that tactic still worked on me, he was sorely mistaken. I met his defiant, almost smug gaze, my voice flat. “Doesn’t matter. You’ve got plenty of mothers, don’t you?” Jack froze, his bravado crumbling instantly. He opened his mouth, a panicked stutter, and I saw a flicker of tears in his eyes. Then, he exploded. He ripped the small charm from around his neck—and hurled it into the ocean. Then he burst into a fresh torrent of tears. “I hate you! I never want you again! You’re a horrible woman!” For a moment, I was disoriented. I’d gotten him that lucky charm when he was six. He used to complain it was “uncool” and “old-fashioned,” always leaving it lying around the house. Now he was wearing it close to his skin? Tiffany pulled him into a hug, stroking his hair with feigned solicitude. “Jack, darling, I’m your mommy now. That… that woman doesn’t deserve to be your mother.” She turned to me, a cruel glint in her eyes, her voice a low, venomous hiss: “Eleanor, you don’t have an entrance badge. You must have snuck in with a scalped ticket. I was going to let it slide, but since you’re so shameless, don’t blame me.” With that, she raised a hand, signaling for security. I didn’t flinch. A joke. This entire cruise ship was mine, a gift from Tim. Let’s see who dared lay a hand on me. But before she could, a hand shot out, firm and quick, pressing her arm down. Andrew looked at me with a complicated expression, then muttered something to Tiffany. Tiffany stared at him, incredulous, her face a mask of bitter resentment. Finally, she gave a grudging nod. Andrew’s expression softened. He started to turn, about to speak to me, but Tiffany threw her arms around his neck, her crimson lips pressing against his. Andrew stiffened for a beat, his eyes instinctively flicking to me. I remained utterly impassive. His eyes darkened, and he leaned in, kissing her with an exaggerated fervor. Just then, my phone buzzed with an incoming call. Before I could even answer, Andrew’s eyes lit up, a sudden, almost desperate hope in them. His voice was thick with barely suppressed excitement. “You still listen to that song?” I blinked, about to ask what he meant, then it dawned on me, a slow, dawning realization. It was our song. The one from when we first fell in love. I’d completely forgotten. I just liked the melody and set it as my ringtone on a whim. But Andrew had clearly misconstrued it. His eyes shone, as if he was about to confess something profound. I ignored him, answering the call instead. Tim’s deep, resonant voice filled my ear. “Elle, where are you? The show’s about to start. We need to go on stage for the opening remarks.” A smile bloomed involuntarily on my face. “Coming right away,” I murmured. “I’ll be right there. Gotta go!”

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “392832”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel

1 Becoming a concert pianist had always been my dream. But on the day of my Grand Master piano examination, a group of thugs suddenly stormed the venue. As I was about to complete my performance, they slammed down the heavy piano lid, then stomped on it repeatedly, with all their might. My fingers were instantly smashed to a bloody mess. I screamed, trying desperately to pull my hands free, but I couldn’t. I looked to my wife, Vicki, for help. Instead, I watched as she actually blocked my friends and the security guards who were trying to reach me. I only learned later that these thugs were there for Leo Maxwell. They meant to break his hands. But my wife had said: “You can’t touch Leo’s hands. Go for the pianist over there. He’s all yours.” My heart died that day. I decided then and there that I would divorce her. But later, she begged for my forgiveness. She even broke Leo’s hands, crying as she pleaded with me. … The piano lid slammed down with a sickening thud, struck by a thug’s bat. It was impossibly heavy. I screamed, a primal sound torn from my throat, frantically trying to yank my fingers from beneath the crushing weight. But the thug, a burly brute, stepped onto a bench and then jumped onto the piano, stomping down with all his weight, again and again. The pain was excruciating, shooting through every nerve, making me gasp for breath, cold sweat slicking my skin. “Stop it! Stop! Please, stop hitting! Just stop!” I begged, my voice hoarse. “I’ve never done anything to you! Why are you doing this to me?!” The thug looked down at me, a sneer twisting his brutal face. “No grudge, huh? Leo Maxwell put my brother in prison. I came for my revenge, but your wife stopped me. She said you were fair compensation. A pair of hands? That’s not too much to ask, is it, big-shot pianist?” “No… it’s impossible!” I twisted my head, my eyes wide with disbelief. Across the room, Vicki was directing a phalanx of bodyguards, shielding Leo in their midst, murmuring reassurances to him, telling him not to be afraid. My piano teacher, horrified, was trying to get past with the venue’s security, but Vicki stood in their way. “This is a private family matter,” she’d said, her voice sharp. “You don’t need to interfere.” My body trembled with a cold fury, unable to reconcile what I was seeing with reality. This was beyond absurd! The next second, I heard a sickening crunch, the unmistakable sound of bone shattering. Warm, sticky blood began to seep from beneath the lid, trickling down the polished piano keys. A wave of icy panic washed over me. I was terrified. Terrified I would never play piano again. Shame and dignity crumbled. I looked up at her, my voice raw with desperation. “Vicki, please! For the sake of our three years of marriage! Save me! Please, save me!” She merely glanced at me, her gaze cold and distant. “It’s because you’re my husband that I’m letting you do this. You’re truly disappointing me, Ethan.” Her voice was dismissive. “It’s just a few stomps, isn’t it? Leo has helped me so much. This is just you repaying a debt.” Hearing such cruel, venomous words spill from her beautiful, crimson lips felt like a knife twisting in my heart. In that moment, I couldn’t tell if my heart or my mangled hands hurt more. Four years of dating, three years of marriage. Did she not know that my dream was to be a concert pianist? That these hands were the most precious things I possessed? Seven years of a shared life, of supposed affection, shattered and crumbled into dust at that very moment. The thug continued to stomp on the lid, venting his twisted rage. As if that wasn’t enough, he began to kick my face, his foot grinding against my head, then he shoved the toe of his shoe into my mouth. My hands were pinned; I was utterly helpless to resist. And my wife stood by, utterly indifferent, her eyes fixed only on Leo, who had started to fake a heart attack again, drawing her concern. 2 My piano teacher’s eyes blazed with fury. “Vicki Hayes! As Ethan’s wife, not only do you refuse to save him, but you forbid us from helping?! Look at the state Ethan is in! Doesn’t your conscience ache, even a little?!” She spared me a cold glance. “So his hands got stomped on a few times? Is there really a need for all this melodramatic wailing?” She turned to me, her voice sharp. “Ethan Blackwood, can’t you be a man for once? A piano lid can’t possibly crush your hand! Stop feigning pity; it only makes me look down on you.” I was so weak, so broken, I barely had the strength to speak. My lips trembled as I whispered, “No, I’m not faking. My fingers… they’re broken.” Vicki couldn’t hear my faint words. She knitted her brows in annoyance. “Ethan Blackwood, will you stop acting like a child? A piano lid weighs nothing! How could it possibly break your hand? Stop trying to get sympathy; it’s pathetic.” My fingers were fractured, pulverized, a mangled mess, yet she called it “feigning pity.” My piano teacher stood beside her, sputtering with rage. She pointed a trembling finger at Vicki’s face. “Are you dense as a brick?! Do you have any idea that piano weighs six hundred pounds, and its lid alone is over a hundred? It’s even studded with jagged diamonds along the edge! And on top of that, a two-hundred-pound brute is jumping on it! If he isn’t rescued right now, his fingers will be ruined forever!” Her voice cracked. “He has such incredible piano talent, a future master! Just ruined like this! How can you be so cruel?!” Vicki paused, her expression momentarily faltering, a flicker of hesitation in her eyes as she listened to my teacher. Just then, Leo Maxwell nearby began to cough dramatically. “I truly envy Brother Ethan, having such a caring teacher!” He wheezed, then looked at Vicki. “Vicki, don’t worry about me. Just let these thugs beat me to death! Brother Ethan is a noble pianist, his hands are so precious. How could I let him suffer for me?!” Vicki immediately turned to Leo, soothing him with tender hands, then spun back to me and my teacher, her eyes blazing with pure disgust. “Get lost, you old hag! My husband and I’s business is none of your damn concern!” She scoffed. “What ‘noble pianist’? He’s nothing but a dog I keep! It’s his damn good fortune to help Leo! If his fingers are broken, they’re broken! Go home and stay there! It’ll stop you from prancing around and flirting with every woman in sight!” Each word that spilled from her lips was like a razor-sharp blade, slicing my heart into a thousand pieces. I had always deceived myself, clinging to the belief that her lingering connection with Leo was just some innocent nostalgia for her youth. At least I was the one she loved now, the one who held her. But in this agonizing moment, I finally understood: she had never loved me. Her heart belonged only to Leo. And I, in her eyes, was nothing more than a loyal, pathetic dog. The profound, all-consuming love I’d felt, for which I would have sacrificed everything, was, to her, nothing but a slobbering pug’s desperate tail wag. My anger surged, a hot, bitter wave, and I coughed up a mouthful of blood. 3 The brute still standing on the piano seemed to revel in the unfolding farce. He gave a triumphant bounce. With that final, jarring impact, my fingers were finally, irrevocably, torn from their roots. Something inside me shattered with an audible crack. I could no longer hold on, and the world spun into darkness as I slumped forward onto the piano. As I coughed up blood and fainted, the last image burned into my mind was Leo Maxwell leaning close to my wife, whispering something into her ear, making her laugh, her body shaking with delight. I closed my eyes in despair, two hot tears tracing paths down my temples. Vicki Hayes, all these years I spent with you… they were truly a mistake. If there was a way to undo it, a magic pill to erase you, I would take it. I would rather have never met you.

🌟 Continue the story here 👉🏻 📲 Download the “MotoNovel” app 🔍 search for “392831”, and watch the full series ✨! #MotoNovel