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"Divorce and you'll get $10 million." The CEO husband ordered.
Without telling him she's pregnant , she agreed and went abroad for a new life. Then the husband was completely panicked.

Chapter 1 A Night of Absurdities

"Anastasia, help! I've been molested at the club!"

The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you, and what do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice spoke close to her ear.

The next second, Anastasia was unceremoniously tossed onto the couch, and before she could scramble to her feet, a lean and strong body pinned her down.

She let out a muffled cry when a pair of lips that tasted like peppermint captured hers.

The man on top of her felt burning hot to the touch. A sense of hopelessness brought tears to her eyes as she tried to struggle against the man, but in the end, she could do nothing but endure the man's ferocity.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized the two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

Shock and rage colored Anastasia's features when she saw them. "Stop right there, Hayley!" she called out loudly over the distance as her fists clenched tightly at her sides.

Upon hearing this, Hayley and Erica swiveled around to face her. Anastasia glowered at them, ashen-faced as she demanded of Hayley, "Why would you lie to me?!"

Hayley smirked. "It's not my fault that you're always so gullible, Anastasia."

"Did you have a good time with that gigolo back there?" Erica asked in a sing-song voice, smiling wickedly.

It was only then that Anastasia realized that both of them had set her up. The chastity she had held dear for the past nineteen years was now sacrificed for their despicable glee.

Presently, Hayley's eyes were frosty as she seethed, "Did you actually think I was your friend, Anastasia? I've been living in your shadow ever since we met! I hate you, and I want nothing more than to ruin that face of yours!"

Erica, on the other hand, swiftly interjected by mocking, "I have the proof I need to show Dad that you've been pimping yourself for money at the club. It won't be long until you're thrown out of the house!"

"You two—" Anastasia was so furious that she swayed. Her body was in tatters after the ordeal she had been through, and the collective weight of her friend's betrayal and her sister's cruelty nearly knocked her down.

"Let's go, Hayley! We don't want to be seen with trash, do we?" With her arm looped through Hayley's, Erica led her toward the sports car she had parked by the curb.

Three days later, at the Tillman Residence, a low male voice yelled out in rage, "You became an escort for money just because I wouldn't let you go abroad for your studies? How can I, Francis Tillman, be capable of having such a shameless daughter like you?"

"Dad, I didn't—"

"You didn't? But you did, Anastasia! How could you go to such shameless lengths? Did we starve you, or did we deprive you of anything? I can't believe you would pimp yourself to random strangers in a filthy clubhouse! For your sake, I hope you haven't brought any disease back to this house. Who knows what my daughter and I could have caught from you," the woman who was dressed in jewels and fine clothes sneered from where she sat on the couch.

"Dad, I really didn't do it. I—" Anastasia tried to explain herself.

However, Francis did not want to hear another word from her. He glowered at her maliciously as he snapped, "Still lying to me, I see. Get out of this home right now! I will not stand to have you under my roof. No daughter of mine could be so shameless. From now on, you are not my child!"

Meanwhile, on the staircase landing, Erica watched this scene play out as she leaned against the banister with her chin propped on her hand. Everything was going exactly the way she had planned. In a matter of minutes, Anastasia was going to be cast out of the house and wander around like some pathetic stray mutt.

Downstairs in the living room, Anastasia fell silent when she saw the thunderous and disappointed look on her father's face. She wordlessly rose from her seat and walked up the stairs to pack up her things.

She had only just rounded the landing when Erica barricaded her. With her arms crossed haughtily in front of her chest, the younger girl sneered, "Get out of here! Don't linger around like an eyesore. This house will never have a place for you ever again!"

Anastasia clenched her fists as she glowered at Erica's pleased expression.

Seeing the hatred and anger in Anastasia's eyes, Erica leaned forward. "What, do you want to slap me or something?" She turned her cheek toward the fuming girl and said smugly, "Go right ahead, then!"

Without holding back, Anastasia brought her hand down across Erica's face, resulting in a hard slap.

"Ah!" Erica let out a shrill cry. "You just hit me! Mom, Dad—Anastasia just hit me!" She howled as she bolted down the stairs.

Naomi Lowell quickly pulled her daughter into her arms and cried up the stairwell, "How dare you strike my daughter, Anastasia! What the hell are you playing at?!"

Francis glanced at the red imprints on Erica's cheek, and he had never been more disappointed in his life. When did my oldest daughter become so infuriatingly rebellious?

"Dad, it hurts..." Erica sobbed as she burrowed into her father's arms, taking in exaggerated deep breaths like she was in great pain.

"Get out of here, Anastasia!" Francis roared up the stairs.

Having packed up her things, Anastasia grabbed her passport and went down the stairs. Her heart grew stone-cold when she saw how her own father was holding Erica in his arms like she was something precious.

Anastasia knew then that she indeed had no place in his heart. Francis had only heard Erica's side of the story instead of asking Anastasia about the horrific incident she had endured last night.

Ever since her mother had passed, she had spent her years in this home living like an outsider, for her father had brought home his mistress and his illegitimate daughter to form a new family.

Anastasia's poor mother had never known about her husband's extra-marital affairs, not even in her death.

I will never come back to this place ever again.

Inside the house, Erica watched as Anastasia dragged her suitcase out the front door, and a wicked smile curled on her lips. I finally got rid of that useless eyesore!

…

Five years later, a knock came on the front door of an apartment in Dansbury.

The woman living in the apartment had been poring over her designs when she heard the knock. A little bewildered, she walked up to the door and pulled it open unhappily. When she saw the two Asian men in suits, she asked in Chinese, "Who are you looking for?"

"Are you Miss Anastasia Tillman?" one of the two men asked in English.

"I am. And you are?" Anastasia pressed.

"We were asked to look for you. Your mother, Amelia Chapman, saved our young master's life back in the day. The old madam whom we serve wishes to see you."

She frowned at this. "Who's the old madam you serve?"

"Old Madam Presgrave," the first man answered respectfully.

Upon hearing this, Anastasia understood what had brought these men here. Old Madam Presgrave was the woman behind the Presgrave Group, the foremost conglomerate in the country. Years ago, Anastasia's mother had sacrificed her life to save Old Madam Presgrave's oldest grandson.

It gave Anastasia great pride to have been born to a police officer as capable and righteous as Amelia.

"I'm sorry, but I don't intend to see her," Anastasia said decidedly. She had a feeling that the Presgraves wanted to repay Amelia's great deed, but she had no plans of accepting their gesture whatsoever.

Just then, a childish and curious voice sounded from somewhere inside the apartment, asking, "Mommy,

who is it?"

"No one," Anastasia replied hastily. Then, she turned to address the men at the door, "Sorry, but I'm really not in a mood for guests at the moment."

With that, she closed the door.

Meanwhile, back in the country, a man was seated on the couch inside the villa tucked halfway up the hill. "Have you tracked her down?"

"Yes, Young Master Elliot. The girl from the clubhouse five years ago just sold off your watch at the second-hand market."

"Find her," said the man on the couch, his voice deep and authoritative.

"Yes, sir!"

"Divorce and you'll get $10 million." The CEO husband ordered.
Without telling him she's pregnant , she agreed and went abroad for a new life. Then the husband was completely panicked.

Chapter 1 A Night of Absurdities

"Anastasia, help! I've been molested at the club!"

The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you, and what do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice spoke close to her ear.

The next second, Anastasia was unceremoniously tossed onto the couch, and before she could scramble to her feet, a lean and strong body pinned her down.

She let out a muffled cry when a pair of lips that tasted like peppermint captured hers.

The man on top of her felt burning hot to the touch. A sense of hopelessness brought tears to her eyes as she tried to struggle against the man, but in the end, she could do nothing but endure the man's ferocity.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized the two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

Shock and rage colored Anastasia's features when she saw them. "Stop right there, Hayley!" she called out loudly over the distance as her fists clenched tightly at her sides.

Upon hearing this, Hayley and Erica swiveled around to face her. Anastasia glowered at them, ashen-faced as she demanded of Hayley, "Why would you lie to me?!"

Hayley smirked. "It's not my fault that you're always so gullible, Anastasia."

"Did you have a good time with that gigolo back there?" Erica asked in a sing-song voice, smiling wickedly.

It was only then that Anastasia realized that both of them had set her up. The chastity she had held dear for the past nineteen years was now sacrificed for their despicable glee.

Presently, Hayley's eyes were frosty as she seethed, "Did you actually think I was your friend, Anastasia? I've been living in your shadow ever since we met! I hate you, and I want nothing more than to ruin that face of yours!"

Erica, on the other hand, swiftly interjected by mocking, "I have the proof I need to show Dad that you've been pimping yourself for money at the club. It won't be long until you're thrown out of the house!"

"You two—" Anastasia was so furious that she swayed. Her body was in tatters after the ordeal she had been through, and the collective weight of her friend's betrayal and her sister's cruelty nearly knocked her down.

"Let's go, Hayley! We don't want to be seen with trash, do we?" With her arm looped through Hayley's, Erica led her toward the sports car she had parked by the curb.

Three days later, at the Tillman Residence, a low male voice yelled out in rage, "You became an escort for money just because I wouldn't let you go abroad for your studies? How can I, Francis Tillman, be capable of having such a shameless daughter like you?"

"Dad, I didn't—"

"You didn't? But you did, Anastasia! How could you go to such shameless lengths? Did we starve you, or did we deprive you of anything? I can't believe you would pimp yourself to random strangers in a filthy clubhouse! For your sake, I hope you haven't brought any disease back to this house. Who knows what my daughter and I could have caught from you," the woman who was dressed in jewels and fine clothes sneered from where she sat on the couch.

"Dad, I really didn't do it. I—" Anastasia tried to explain herself.

However, Francis did not want to hear another word from her. He glowered at her maliciously as he snapped, "Still lying to me, I see. Get out of this home right now! I will not stand to have you under my roof. No daughter of mine could be so shameless. From now on, you are not my child!"

Meanwhile, on the staircase landing, Erica watched this scene play out as she leaned against the banister with her chin propped on her hand. Everything was going exactly the way she had planned. In a matter of minutes, Anastasia was going to be cast out of the house and wander around like some pathetic stray mutt.

Downstairs in the living room, Anastasia fell silent when she saw the thunderous and disappointed look on her father's face. She wordlessly rose from her seat and walked up the stairs to pack up her things.

She had only just rounded the landing when Erica barricaded her. With her arms crossed haughtily in front of her chest, the younger girl sneered, "Get out of here! Don't linger around like an eyesore. This house will never have a place for you ever again!"

Anastasia clenched her fists as she glowered at Erica's pleased expression.

Seeing the hatred and anger in Anastasia's eyes, Erica leaned forward. "What, do you want to slap me or something?" She turned her cheek toward the fuming girl and said smugly, "Go right ahead, then!"

Without holding back, Anastasia brought her hand down across Erica's face, resulting in a hard slap.

"Ah!" Erica let out a shrill cry. "You just hit me! Mom, Dad—Anastasia just hit me!" She howled as she bolted down the stairs.

Naomi Lowell quickly pulled her daughter into her arms and cried up the stairwell, "How dare you strike my daughter, Anastasia! What the hell are you playing at?!"

Francis glanced at the red imprints on Erica's cheek, and he had never been more disappointed in his life. When did my oldest daughter become so infuriatingly rebellious?

"Dad, it hurts..." Erica sobbed as she burrowed into her father's arms, taking in exaggerated deep breaths like she was in great pain.

"Get out of here, Anastasia!" Francis roared up the stairs.

Having packed up her things, Anastasia grabbed her passport and went down the stairs. Her heart grew stone-cold when she saw how her own father was holding Erica in his arms like she was something precious.

Anastasia knew then that she indeed had no place in his heart. Francis had only heard Erica's side of the story instead of asking Anastasia about the horrific incident she had endured last night.

Ever since her mother had passed, she had spent her years in this home living like an outsider, for her father had brought home his mistress and his illegitimate daughter to form a new family.

Anastasia's poor mother had never known about her husband's extra-marital affairs, not even in her death.

I will never come back to this place ever again.

Inside the house, Erica watched as Anastasia dragged her suitcase out the front door, and a wicked smile curled on her lips. I finally got rid of that useless eyesore!

…

Five years later, a knock came on the front door of an apartment in Dansbury.

The woman living in the apartment had been poring over her designs when she heard the knock. A little bewildered, she walked up to the door and pulled it open unhappily. When she saw the two Asian men in suits, she asked in Chinese, "Who are you looking for?"

"Are you Miss Anastasia Tillman?" one of the two men asked in English.

"I am. And you are?" Anastasia pressed.

"We were asked to look for you. Your mother, Amelia Chapman, saved our young master's life back in the day. The old madam whom we serve wishes to see you."

She frowned at this. "Who's the old madam you serve?"

"Old Madam Presgrave," the first man answered respectfully.

Upon hearing this, Anastasia understood what had brought these men here. Old Madam Presgrave was the woman behind the Presgrave Group, the foremost conglomerate in the country. Years ago, Anastasia's mother had sacrificed her life to save Old Madam Presgrave's oldest grandson.

It gave Anastasia great pride to have been born to a police officer as capable and righteous as Amelia.

"I'm sorry, but I don't intend to see her," Anastasia said decidedly. She had a feeling that the Presgraves wanted to repay Amelia's great deed, but she had no plans of accepting their gesture whatsoever.

Just then, a childish and curious voice sounded from somewhere inside the apartment, asking, "Mommy,

who is it?"

"No one," Anastasia replied hastily. Then, she turned to address the men at the door, "Sorry, but I'm really not in a mood for guests at the moment."

With that, she closed the door.

Meanwhile, back in the country, a man was seated on the couch inside the villa tucked halfway up the hill. "Have you tracked her down?"

"Yes, Young Master Elliot. The girl from the clubhouse five years ago just sold off your watch at the second-hand market."

"Find her," said the man on the couch, his voice deep and authoritative.

"Yes, sir!"

"Divorce and you'll get $10 million." The CEO husband ordered.
Without telling him she's pregnant , she agreed and went abroad for a new life. Then the husband was completely panicked.

Chapter 1 A Night of Absurdities

"Anastasia, help! I've been molested at the club!"

The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you, and what do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice spoke close to her ear.

The next second, Anastasia was unceremoniously tossed onto the couch, and before she could scramble to her feet, a lean and strong body pinned her down.

She let out a muffled cry when a pair of lips that tasted like peppermint captured hers.

The man on top of her felt burning hot to the touch. A sense of hopelessness brought tears to her eyes as she tried to struggle against the man, but in the end, she could do nothing but endure the man's ferocity.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized the two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

Shock and rage colored Anastasia's features when she saw them. "Stop right there, Hayley!" she called out loudly over the distance as her fists clenched tightly at her sides.

Upon hearing this, Hayley and Erica swiveled around to face her. Anastasia glowered at them, ashen-faced as she demanded of Hayley, "Why would you lie to me?!"

Hayley smirked. "It's not my fault that you're always so gullible, Anastasia."

"Did you have a good time with that gigolo back there?" Erica asked in a sing-song voice, smiling wickedly.

It was only then that Anastasia realized that both of them had set her up. The chastity she had held dear for the past nineteen years was now sacrificed for their despicable glee.

Presently, Hayley's eyes were frosty as she seethed, "Did you actually think I was your friend, Anastasia? I've been living in your shadow ever since we met! I hate you, and I want nothing more than to ruin that face of yours!"

Erica, on the other hand, swiftly interjected by mocking, "I have the proof I need to show Dad that you've been pimping yourself for money at the club. It won't be long until you're thrown out of the house!"

"You two—" Anastasia was so furious that she swayed. Her body was in tatters after the ordeal she had been through, and the collective weight of her friend's betrayal and her sister's cruelty nearly knocked her down.

"Let's go, Hayley! We don't want to be seen with trash, do we?" With her arm looped through Hayley's, Erica led her toward the sports car she had parked by the curb.

Three days later, at the Tillman Residence, a low male voice yelled out in rage, "You became an escort for money just because I wouldn't let you go abroad for your studies? How can I, Francis Tillman, be capable of having such a shameless daughter like you?"

"Dad, I didn't—"

"You didn't? But you did, Anastasia! How could you go to such shameless lengths? Did we starve you, or did we deprive you of anything? I can't believe you would pimp yourself to random strangers in a filthy clubhouse! For your sake, I hope you haven't brought any disease back to this house. Who knows what my daughter and I could have caught from you," the woman who was dressed in jewels and fine clothes sneered from where she sat on the couch.

"Dad, I really didn't do it. I—" Anastasia tried to explain herself.

However, Francis did not want to hear another word from her. He glowered at her maliciously as he snapped, "Still lying to me, I see. Get out of this home right now! I will not stand to have you under my roof. No daughter of mine could be so shameless. From now on, you are not my child!"

Meanwhile, on the staircase landing, Erica watched this scene play out as she leaned against the banister with her chin propped on her hand. Everything was going exactly the way she had planned. In a matter of minutes, Anastasia was going to be cast out of the house and wander around like some pathetic stray mutt.

Downstairs in the living room, Anastasia fell silent when she saw the thunderous and disappointed look on her father's face. She wordlessly rose from her seat and walked up the stairs to pack up her things.

She had only just rounded the landing when Erica barricaded her. With her arms crossed haughtily in front of her chest, the younger girl sneered, "Get out of here! Don't linger around like an eyesore. This house will never have a place for you ever again!"

Anastasia clenched her fists as she glowered at Erica's pleased expression.

Seeing the hatred and anger in Anastasia's eyes, Erica leaned forward. "What, do you want to slap me or something?" She turned her cheek toward the fuming girl and said smugly, "Go right ahead, then!"

Without holding back, Anastasia brought her hand down across Erica's face, resulting in a hard slap.

"Ah!" Erica let out a shrill cry. "You just hit me! Mom, Dad—Anastasia just hit me!" She howled as she bolted down the stairs.

Naomi Lowell quickly pulled her daughter into her arms and cried up the stairwell, "How dare you strike my daughter, Anastasia! What the hell are you playing at?!"

Francis glanced at the red imprints on Erica's cheek, and he had never been more disappointed in his life. When did my oldest daughter become so infuriatingly rebellious?

"Dad, it hurts..." Erica sobbed as she burrowed into her father's arms, taking in exaggerated deep breaths like she was in great pain.

"Get out of here, Anastasia!" Francis roared up the stairs.

Having packed up her things, Anastasia grabbed her passport and went down the stairs. Her heart grew stone-cold when she saw how her own father was holding Erica in his arms like she was something precious.

Anastasia knew then that she indeed had no place in his heart. Francis had only heard Erica's side of the story instead of asking Anastasia about the horrific incident she had endured last night.

Ever since her mother had passed, she had spent her years in this home living like an outsider, for her father had brought home his mistress and his illegitimate daughter to form a new family.

Anastasia's poor mother had never known about her husband's extra-marital affairs, not even in her death.

I will never come back to this place ever again.

Inside the house, Erica watched as Anastasia dragged her suitcase out the front door, and a wicked smile curled on her lips. I finally got rid of that useless eyesore!

…

Five years later, a knock came on the front door of an apartment in Dansbury.

The woman living in the apartment had been poring over her designs when she heard the knock. A little bewildered, she walked up to the door and pulled it open unhappily. When she saw the two Asian men in suits, she asked in Chinese, "Who are you looking for?"

"Are you Miss Anastasia Tillman?" one of the two men asked in English.

"I am. And you are?" Anastasia pressed.

"We were asked to look for you. Your mother, Amelia Chapman, saved our young master's life back in the day. The old madam whom we serve wishes to see you."

She frowned at this. "Who's the old madam you serve?"

"Old Madam Presgrave," the first man answered respectfully.

Upon hearing this, Anastasia understood what had brought these men here. Old Madam Presgrave was the woman behind the Presgrave Group, the foremost conglomerate in the country. Years ago, Anastasia's mother had sacrificed her life to save Old Madam Presgrave's oldest grandson.

It gave Anastasia great pride to have been born to a police officer as capable and righteous as Amelia.

"I'm sorry, but I don't intend to see her," Anastasia said decidedly. She had a feeling that the Presgraves wanted to repay Amelia's great deed, but she had no plans of accepting their gesture whatsoever.

Just then, a childish and curious voice sounded from somewhere inside the apartment, asking, "Mommy,

who is it?"

"No one," Anastasia replied hastily. Then, she turned to address the men at the door, "Sorry, but I'm really not in a mood for guests at the moment."

With that, she closed the door.

Meanwhile, back in the country, a man was seated on the couch inside the villa tucked halfway up the hill. "Have you tracked her down?"

"Yes, Young Master Elliot. The girl from the clubhouse five years ago just sold off your watch at the second-hand market."

"Find her," said the man on the couch, his voice deep and authoritative.

"Yes, sir!"

"Divorce and you'll get $10 million." The CEO husband ordered.
Without telling him she's pregnant , she agreed and went abroad for a new life. Then the husband was completely panicked.

Chapter 1 A Night of Absurdities

"Anastasia, help! I've been molested at the club!"

The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you, and what do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice spoke close to her ear.

The next second, Anastasia was unceremoniously tossed onto the couch, and before she could scramble to her feet, a lean and strong body pinned her down.

She let out a muffled cry when a pair of lips that tasted like peppermint captured hers.

The man on top of her felt burning hot to the touch. A sense of hopelessness brought tears to her eyes as she tried to struggle against the man, but in the end, she could do nothing but endure the man's ferocity.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized the two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

Shock and rage colored Anastasia's features when she saw them. "Stop right there, Hayley!" she called out loudly over the distance as her fists clenched tightly at her sides.

Upon hearing this, Hayley and Erica swiveled around to face her. Anastasia glowered at them, ashen-faced as she demanded of Hayley, "Why would you lie to me?!"

Hayley smirked. "It's not my fault that you're always so gullible, Anastasia."

"Did you have a good time with that gigolo back there?" Erica asked in a sing-song voice, smiling wickedly.

It was only then that Anastasia realized that both of them had set her up. The chastity she had held dear for the past nineteen years was now sacrificed for their despicable glee.

Presently, Hayley's eyes were frosty as she seethed, "Did you actually think I was your friend, Anastasia? I've been living in your shadow ever since we met! I hate you, and I want nothing more than to ruin that face of yours!"

Erica, on the other hand, swiftly interjected by mocking, "I have the proof I need to show Dad that you've been pimping yourself for money at the club. It won't be long until you're thrown out of the house!"

"You two—" Anastasia was so furious that she swayed. Her body was in tatters after the ordeal she had been through, and the collective weight of her friend's betrayal and her sister's cruelty nearly knocked her down.

"Let's go, Hayley! We don't want to be seen with trash, do we?" With her arm looped through Hayley's, Erica led her toward the sports car she had parked by the curb.

Three days later, at the Tillman Residence, a low male voice yelled out in rage, "You became an escort for money just because I wouldn't let you go abroad for your studies? How can I, Francis Tillman, be capable of having such a shameless daughter like you?"

"Dad, I didn't—"

"You didn't? But you did, Anastasia! How could you go to such shameless lengths? Did we starve you, or did we deprive you of anything? I can't believe you would pimp yourself to random strangers in a filthy clubhouse! For your sake, I hope you haven't brought any disease back to this house. Who knows what my daughter and I could have caught from you," the woman who was dressed in jewels and fine clothes sneered from where she sat on the couch.

"Dad, I really didn't do it. I—" Anastasia tried to explain herself.

However, Francis did not want to hear another word from her. He glowered at her maliciously as he snapped, "Still lying to me, I see. Get out of this home right now! I will not stand to have you under my roof. No daughter of mine could be so shameless. From now on, you are not my child!"

Meanwhile, on the staircase landing, Erica watched this scene play out as she leaned against the banister with her chin propped on her hand. Everything was going exactly the way she had planned. In a matter of minutes, Anastasia was going to be cast out of the house and wander around like some pathetic stray mutt.

Downstairs in the living room, Anastasia fell silent when she saw the thunderous and disappointed look on her father's face. She wordlessly rose from her seat and walked up the stairs to pack up her things.

She had only just rounded the landing when Erica barricaded her. With her arms crossed haughtily in front of her chest, the younger girl sneered, "Get out of here! Don't linger around like an eyesore. This house will never have a place for you ever again!"

Anastasia clenched her fists as she glowered at Erica's pleased expression.

Seeing the hatred and anger in Anastasia's eyes, Erica leaned forward. "What, do you want to slap me or something?" She turned her cheek toward the fuming girl and said smugly, "Go right ahead, then!"

Without holding back, Anastasia brought her hand down across Erica's face, resulting in a hard slap.

"Ah!" Erica let out a shrill cry. "You just hit me! Mom, Dad—Anastasia just hit me!" She howled as she bolted down the stairs.

Naomi Lowell quickly pulled her daughter into her arms and cried up the stairwell, "How dare you strike my daughter, Anastasia! What the hell are you playing at?!"

Francis glanced at the red imprints on Erica's cheek, and he had never been more disappointed in his life. When did my oldest daughter become so infuriatingly rebellious?

"Dad, it hurts..." Erica sobbed as she burrowed into her father's arms, taking in exaggerated deep breaths like she was in great pain.

"Get out of here, Anastasia!" Francis roared up the stairs.

Having packed up her things, Anastasia grabbed her passport and went down the stairs. Her heart grew stone-cold when she saw how her own father was holding Erica in his arms like she was something precious.

Anastasia knew then that she indeed had no place in his heart. Francis had only heard Erica's side of the story instead of asking Anastasia about the horrific incident she had endured last night.

Ever since her mother had passed, she had spent her years in this home living like an outsider, for her father had brought home his mistress and his illegitimate daughter to form a new family.

Anastasia's poor mother had never known about her husband's extra-marital affairs, not even in her death.

I will never come back to this place ever again.

Inside the house, Erica watched as Anastasia dragged her suitcase out the front door, and a wicked smile curled on her lips. I finally got rid of that useless eyesore!

…

Five years later, a knock came on the front door of an apartment in Dansbury.

The woman living in the apartment had been poring over her designs when she heard the knock. A little bewildered, she walked up to the door and pulled it open unhappily. When she saw the two Asian men in suits, she asked in Chinese, "Who are you looking for?"

"Are you Miss Anastasia Tillman?" one of the two men asked in English.

"I am. And you are?" Anastasia pressed.

"We were asked to look for you. Your mother, Amelia Chapman, saved our young master's life back in the day. The old madam whom we serve wishes to see you."

She frowned at this. "Who's the old madam you serve?"

"Old Madam Presgrave," the first man answered respectfully.

Upon hearing this, Anastasia understood what had brought these men here. Old Madam Presgrave was the woman behind the Presgrave Group, the foremost conglomerate in the country. Years ago, Anastasia's mother had sacrificed her life to save Old Madam Presgrave's oldest grandson.

It gave Anastasia great pride to have been born to a police officer as capable and righteous as Amelia.

"I'm sorry, but I don't intend to see her," Anastasia said decidedly. She had a feeling that the Presgraves wanted to repay Amelia's great deed, but she had no plans of accepting their gesture whatsoever.

Just then, a childish and curious voice sounded from somewhere inside the apartment, asking, "Mommy,

who is it?"

"No one," Anastasia replied hastily. Then, she turned to address the men at the door, "Sorry, but I'm really not in a mood for guests at the moment."

With that, she closed the door.

Meanwhile, back in the country, a man was seated on the couch inside the villa tucked halfway up the hill. "Have you tracked her down?"

"Yes, Young Master Elliot. The girl from the clubhouse five years ago just sold off your watch at the second-hand market."

"Find her," said the man on the couch, his voice deep and authoritative.

"Yes, sir!"

"Anastasia, help!‘’
The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you. What do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice was getting close to her ear.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

Read Next Chapter Now👉

"Anastasia, help!‘’
The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you. What do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice was getting close to her ear.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

Read Next Chapter Now👉

"Divorce and you'll get $10 million." The CEO husband ordered.
Without telling him she's pregnant , she agreed and went abroad for a new life. Then the husband was completely panicked.

Chapter 1 A Night of Absurdities

"Anastasia, help! I've been molested at the club!"

The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you, and what do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice spoke close to her ear.

The next second, Anastasia was unceremoniously tossed onto the couch, and before she could scramble to her feet, a lean and strong body pinned her down.

She let out a muffled cry when a pair of lips that tasted like peppermint captured hers.

The man on top of her felt burning hot to the touch. A sense of hopelessness brought tears to her eyes as she tried to struggle against the man, but in the end, she could do nothing but endure the man's ferocity.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized the two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

Shock and rage colored Anastasia's features when she saw them. "Stop right there, Hayley!" she called out loudly over the distance as her fists clenched tightly at her sides.

Upon hearing this, Hayley and Erica swiveled around to face her. Anastasia glowered at them, ashen-faced as she demanded of Hayley, "Why would you lie to me?!"

Hayley smirked. "It's not my fault that you're always so gullible, Anastasia."

"Did you have a good time with that gigolo back there?" Erica asked in a sing-song voice, smiling wickedly.

It was only then that Anastasia realized that both of them had set her up. The chastity she had held dear for the past nineteen years was now sacrificed for their despicable glee.

Presently, Hayley's eyes were frosty as she seethed, "Did you actually think I was your friend, Anastasia? I've been living in your shadow ever since we met! I hate you, and I want nothing more than to ruin that face of yours!"

Erica, on the other hand, swiftly interjected by mocking, "I have the proof I need to show Dad that you've been pimping yourself for money at the club. It won't be long until you're thrown out of the house!"

"You two—" Anastasia was so furious that she swayed. Her body was in tatters after the ordeal she had been through, and the collective weight of her friend's betrayal and her sister's cruelty nearly knocked her down.

"Let's go, Hayley! We don't want to be seen with trash, do we?" With her arm looped through Hayley's, Erica led her toward the sports car she had parked by the curb.

Three days later, at the Tillman Residence, a low male voice yelled out in rage, "You became an escort for money just because I wouldn't let you go abroad for your studies? How can I, Francis Tillman, be capable of having such a shameless daughter like you?"

"Dad, I didn't—"

"You didn't? But you did, Anastasia! How could you go to such shameless lengths? Did we starve you, or did we deprive you of anything? I can't believe you would pimp yourself to random strangers in a filthy clubhouse! For your sake, I hope you haven't brought any disease back to this house. Who knows what my daughter and I could have caught from you," the woman who was dressed in jewels and fine clothes sneered from where she sat on the couch.

"Dad, I really didn't do it. I—" Anastasia tried to explain herself.

However, Francis did not want to hear another word from her. He glowered at her maliciously as he snapped, "Still lying to me, I see. Get out of this home right now! I will not stand to have you under my roof. No daughter of mine could be so shameless. From now on, you are not my child!"

Meanwhile, on the staircase landing, Erica watched this scene play out as she leaned against the banister with her chin propped on her hand. Everything was going exactly the way she had planned. In a matter of minutes, Anastasia was going to be cast out of the house and wander around like some pathetic stray mutt.

Downstairs in the living room, Anastasia fell silent when she saw the thunderous and disappointed look on her father's face. She wordlessly rose from her seat and walked up the stairs to pack up her things.

She had only just rounded the landing when Erica barricaded her. With her arms crossed haughtily in front of her chest, the younger girl sneered, "Get out of here! Don't linger around like an eyesore. This house will never have a place for you ever again!"

Anastasia clenched her fists as she glowered at Erica's pleased expression.

Seeing the hatred and anger in Anastasia's eyes, Erica leaned forward. "What, do you want to slap me or something?" She turned her cheek toward the fuming girl and said smugly, "Go right ahead, then!"

Without holding back, Anastasia brought her hand down across Erica's face, resulting in a hard slap.

"Ah!" Erica let out a shrill cry. "You just hit me! Mom, Dad—Anastasia just hit me!" She howled as she bolted down the stairs.

Naomi Lowell quickly pulled her daughter into her arms and cried up the stairwell, "How dare you strike my daughter, Anastasia! What the hell are you playing at?!"

Francis glanced at the red imprints on Erica's cheek, and he had never been more disappointed in his life. When did my oldest daughter become so infuriatingly rebellious?

"Dad, it hurts..." Erica sobbed as she burrowed into her father's arms, taking in exaggerated deep breaths like she was in great pain.

"Get out of here, Anastasia!" Francis roared up the stairs.

Having packed up her things, Anastasia grabbed her passport and went down the stairs. Her heart grew stone-cold when she saw how her own father was holding Erica in his arms like she was something precious.

Anastasia knew then that she indeed had no place in his heart. Francis had only heard Erica's side of the story instead of asking Anastasia about the horrific incident she had endured last night.

Ever since her mother had passed, she had spent her years in this home living like an outsider, for her father had brought home his mistress and his illegitimate daughter to form a new family.

Anastasia's poor mother had never known about her husband's extra-marital affairs, not even in her death.

I will never come back to this place ever again.

Inside the house, Erica watched as Anastasia dragged her suitcase out the front door, and a wicked smile curled on her lips. I finally got rid of that useless eyesore!

…

Five years later, a knock came on the front door of an apartment in Dansbury.

The woman living in the apartment had been poring over her designs when she heard the knock. A little bewildered, she walked up to the door and pulled it open unhappily. When she saw the two Asian men in suits, she asked in Chinese, "Who are you looking for?"

"Are you Miss Anastasia Tillman?" one of the two men asked in English.

"I am. And you are?" Anastasia pressed.

"We were asked to look for you. Your mother, Amelia Chapman, saved our young master's life back in the day. The old madam whom we serve wishes to see you."

She frowned at this. "Who's the old madam you serve?"

"Old Madam Presgrave," the first man answered respectfully.

Upon hearing this, Anastasia understood what had brought these men here. Old Madam Presgrave was the woman behind the Presgrave Group, the foremost conglomerate in the country. Years ago, Anastasia's mother had sacrificed her life to save Old Madam Presgrave's oldest grandson.

It gave Anastasia great pride to have been born to a police officer as capable and righteous as Amelia.

"I'm sorry, but I don't intend to see her," Anastasia said decidedly. She had a feeling that the Presgraves wanted to repay Amelia's great deed, but she had no plans of accepting their gesture whatsoever.

Just then, a childish and curious voice sounded from somewhere inside the apartment, asking, "Mommy,

who is it?"

"No one," Anastasia replied hastily. Then, she turned to address the men at the door, "Sorry, but I'm really not in a mood for guests at the moment."

With that, she closed the door.

Meanwhile, back in the country, a man was seated on the couch inside the villa tucked halfway up the hill. "Have you tracked her down?"

"Yes, Young Master Elliot. The girl from the clubhouse five years ago just sold off your watch at the second-hand market."

"Find her," said the man on the couch, his voice deep and authoritative.

"Yes, sir!"

"Divorce and you'll get $10 million." The CEO husband ordered.
Without telling him she's pregnant , she agreed and went abroad for a new life. Then the husband was completely panicked.

Chapter 1 A Night of Absurdities

"Anastasia, help! I've been molested at the club!"

The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you, and what do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice spoke close to her ear.

The next second, Anastasia was unceremoniously tossed onto the couch, and before she could scramble to her feet, a lean and strong body pinned her down.

She let out a muffled cry when a pair of lips that tasted like peppermint captured hers.

The man on top of her felt burning hot to the touch. A sense of hopelessness brought tears to her eyes as she tried to struggle against the man, but in the end, she could do nothing but endure the man's ferocity.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized the two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

Shock and rage colored Anastasia's features when she saw them. "Stop right there, Hayley!" she called out loudly over the distance as her fists clenched tightly at her sides.

Upon hearing this, Hayley and Erica swiveled around to face her. Anastasia glowered at them, ashen-faced as she demanded of Hayley, "Why would you lie to me?!"

Hayley smirked. "It's not my fault that you're always so gullible, Anastasia."

"Did you have a good time with that gigolo back there?" Erica asked in a sing-song voice, smiling wickedly.

It was only then that Anastasia realized that both of them had set her up. The chastity she had held dear for the past nineteen years was now sacrificed for their despicable glee.

Presently, Hayley's eyes were frosty as she seethed, "Did you actually think I was your friend, Anastasia? I've been living in your shadow ever since we met! I hate you, and I want nothing more than to ruin that face of yours!"

Erica, on the other hand, swiftly interjected by mocking, "I have the proof I need to show Dad that you've been pimping yourself for money at the club. It won't be long until you're thrown out of the house!"

"You two—" Anastasia was so furious that she swayed. Her body was in tatters after the ordeal she had been through, and the collective weight of her friend's betrayal and her sister's cruelty nearly knocked her down.

"Let's go, Hayley! We don't want to be seen with trash, do we?" With her arm looped through Hayley's, Erica led her toward the sports car she had parked by the curb.

Three days later, at the Tillman Residence, a low male voice yelled out in rage, "You became an escort for money just because I wouldn't let you go abroad for your studies? How can I, Francis Tillman, be capable of having such a shameless daughter like you?"

"Dad, I didn't—"

"You didn't? But you did, Anastasia! How could you go to such shameless lengths? Did we starve you, or did we deprive you of anything? I can't believe you would pimp yourself to random strangers in a filthy clubhouse! For your sake, I hope you haven't brought any disease back to this house. Who knows what my daughter and I could have caught from you," the woman who was dressed in jewels and fine clothes sneered from where she sat on the couch.

"Dad, I really didn't do it. I—" Anastasia tried to explain herself.

However, Francis did not want to hear another word from her. He glowered at her maliciously as he snapped, "Still lying to me, I see. Get out of this home right now! I will not stand to have you under my roof. No daughter of mine could be so shameless. From now on, you are not my child!"

Meanwhile, on the staircase landing, Erica watched this scene play out as she leaned against the banister with her chin propped on her hand. Everything was going exactly the way she had planned. In a matter of minutes, Anastasia was going to be cast out of the house and wander around like some pathetic stray mutt.

Downstairs in the living room, Anastasia fell silent when she saw the thunderous and disappointed look on her father's face. She wordlessly rose from her seat and walked up the stairs to pack up her things.

She had only just rounded the landing when Erica barricaded her. With her arms crossed haughtily in front of her chest, the younger girl sneered, "Get out of here! Don't linger around like an eyesore. This house will never have a place for you ever again!"

Anastasia clenched her fists as she glowered at Erica's pleased expression.

Seeing the hatred and anger in Anastasia's eyes, Erica leaned forward. "What, do you want to slap me or something?" She turned her cheek toward the fuming girl and said smugly, "Go right ahead, then!"

Without holding back, Anastasia brought her hand down across Erica's face, resulting in a hard slap.

"Ah!" Erica let out a shrill cry. "You just hit me! Mom, Dad—Anastasia just hit me!" She howled as she bolted down the stairs.

Naomi Lowell quickly pulled her daughter into her arms and cried up the stairwell, "How dare you strike my daughter, Anastasia! What the hell are you playing at?!"

Francis glanced at the red imprints on Erica's cheek, and he had never been more disappointed in his life. When did my oldest daughter become so infuriatingly rebellious?

"Dad, it hurts..." Erica sobbed as she burrowed into her father's arms, taking in exaggerated deep breaths like she was in great pain.

"Get out of here, Anastasia!" Francis roared up the stairs.

Having packed up her things, Anastasia grabbed her passport and went down the stairs. Her heart grew stone-cold when she saw how her own father was holding Erica in his arms like she was something precious.

Anastasia knew then that she indeed had no place in his heart. Francis had only heard Erica's side of the story instead of asking Anastasia about the horrific incident she had endured last night.

Ever since her mother had passed, she had spent her years in this home living like an outsider, for her father had brought home his mistress and his illegitimate daughter to form a new family.

Anastasia's poor mother had never known about her husband's extra-marital affairs, not even in her death.

I will never come back to this place ever again.

Inside the house, Erica watched as Anastasia dragged her suitcase out the front door, and a wicked smile curled on her lips. I finally got rid of that useless eyesore!

…

Five years later, a knock came on the front door of an apartment in Dansbury.

The woman living in the apartment had been poring over her designs when she heard the knock. A little bewildered, she walked up to the door and pulled it open unhappily. When she saw the two Asian men in suits, she asked in Chinese, "Who are you looking for?"

"Are you Miss Anastasia Tillman?" one of the two men asked in English.

"I am. And you are?" Anastasia pressed.

"We were asked to look for you. Your mother, Amelia Chapman, saved our young master's life back in the day. The old madam whom we serve wishes to see you."

She frowned at this. "Who's the old madam you serve?"

"Old Madam Presgrave," the first man answered respectfully.

Upon hearing this, Anastasia understood what had brought these men here. Old Madam Presgrave was the woman behind the Presgrave Group, the foremost conglomerate in the country. Years ago, Anastasia's mother had sacrificed her life to save Old Madam Presgrave's oldest grandson.

It gave Anastasia great pride to have been born to a police officer as capable and righteous as Amelia.

"I'm sorry, but I don't intend to see her," Anastasia said decidedly. She had a feeling that the Presgraves wanted to repay Amelia's great deed, but she had no plans of accepting their gesture whatsoever.

Just then, a childish and curious voice sounded from somewhere inside the apartment, asking, "Mommy,

who is it?"

"No one," Anastasia replied hastily. Then, she turned to address the men at the door, "Sorry, but I'm really not in a mood for guests at the moment."

With that, she closed the door.

Meanwhile, back in the country, a man was seated on the couch inside the villa tucked halfway up the hill. "Have you tracked her down?"

"Yes, Young Master Elliot. The girl from the clubhouse five years ago just sold off your watch at the second-hand market."

"Find her," said the man on the couch, his voice deep and authoritative.

"Yes, sir!"

"Divorce and you'll get $10 million." The CEO husband ordered.
Without telling him she's pregnant , she agreed and went abroad for a new life. Then the husband was completely panicked.

Chapter 1 A Night of Absurdities

"Anastasia, help! I've been molested at the club!"

The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you, and what do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice spoke close to her ear.

The next second, Anastasia was unceremoniously tossed onto the couch, and before she could scramble to her feet, a lean and strong body pinned her down.

She let out a muffled cry when a pair of lips that tasted like peppermint captured hers.

The man on top of her felt burning hot to the touch. A sense of hopelessness brought tears to her eyes as she tried to struggle against the man, but in the end, she could do nothing but endure the man's ferocity.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized the two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

Shock and rage colored Anastasia's features when she saw them. "Stop right there, Hayley!" she called out loudly over the distance as her fists clenched tightly at her sides.

Upon hearing this, Hayley and Erica swiveled around to face her. Anastasia glowered at them, ashen-faced as she demanded of Hayley, "Why would you lie to me?!"

Hayley smirked. "It's not my fault that you're always so gullible, Anastasia."

"Did you have a good time with that gigolo back there?" Erica asked in a sing-song voice, smiling wickedly.

It was only then that Anastasia realized that both of them had set her up. The chastity she had held dear for the past nineteen years was now sacrificed for their despicable glee.

Presently, Hayley's eyes were frosty as she seethed, "Did you actually think I was your friend, Anastasia? I've been living in your shadow ever since we met! I hate you, and I want nothing more than to ruin that face of yours!"

Erica, on the other hand, swiftly interjected by mocking, "I have the proof I need to show Dad that you've been pimping yourself for money at the club. It won't be long until you're thrown out of the house!"

"You two—" Anastasia was so furious that she swayed. Her body was in tatters after the ordeal she had been through, and the collective weight of her friend's betrayal and her sister's cruelty nearly knocked her down.

"Let's go, Hayley! We don't want to be seen with trash, do we?" With her arm looped through Hayley's, Erica led her toward the sports car she had parked by the curb.

Three days later, at the Tillman Residence, a low male voice yelled out in rage, "You became an escort for money just because I wouldn't let you go abroad for your studies? How can I, Francis Tillman, be capable of having such a shameless daughter like you?"

"Dad, I didn't—"

"You didn't? But you did, Anastasia! How could you go to such shameless lengths? Did we starve you, or did we deprive you of anything? I can't believe you would pimp yourself to random strangers in a filthy clubhouse! For your sake, I hope you haven't brought any disease back to this house. Who knows what my daughter and I could have caught from you," the woman who was dressed in jewels and fine clothes sneered from where she sat on the couch.

"Dad, I really didn't do it. I—" Anastasia tried to explain herself.

However, Francis did not want to hear another word from her. He glowered at her maliciously as he snapped, "Still lying to me, I see. Get out of this home right now! I will not stand to have you under my roof. No daughter of mine could be so shameless. From now on, you are not my child!"

Meanwhile, on the staircase landing, Erica watched this scene play out as she leaned against the banister with her chin propped on her hand. Everything was going exactly the way she had planned. In a matter of minutes, Anastasia was going to be cast out of the house and wander around like some pathetic stray mutt.

Downstairs in the living room, Anastasia fell silent when she saw the thunderous and disappointed look on her father's face. She wordlessly rose from her seat and walked up the stairs to pack up her things.

She had only just rounded the landing when Erica barricaded her. With her arms crossed haughtily in front of her chest, the younger girl sneered, "Get out of here! Don't linger around like an eyesore. This house will never have a place for you ever again!"

Anastasia clenched her fists as she glowered at Erica's pleased expression.

Seeing the hatred and anger in Anastasia's eyes, Erica leaned forward. "What, do you want to slap me or something?" She turned her cheek toward the fuming girl and said smugly, "Go right ahead, then!"

Without holding back, Anastasia brought her hand down across Erica's face, resulting in a hard slap.

"Ah!" Erica let out a shrill cry. "You just hit me! Mom, Dad—Anastasia just hit me!" She howled as she bolted down the stairs.

Naomi Lowell quickly pulled her daughter into her arms and cried up the stairwell, "How dare you strike my daughter, Anastasia! What the hell are you playing at?!"

Francis glanced at the red imprints on Erica's cheek, and he had never been more disappointed in his life. When did my oldest daughter become so infuriatingly rebellious?

"Dad, it hurts..." Erica sobbed as she burrowed into her father's arms, taking in exaggerated deep breaths like she was in great pain.

"Get out of here, Anastasia!" Francis roared up the stairs.

Having packed up her things, Anastasia grabbed her passport and went down the stairs. Her heart grew stone-cold when she saw how her own father was holding Erica in his arms like she was something precious.

Anastasia knew then that she indeed had no place in his heart. Francis had only heard Erica's side of the story instead of asking Anastasia about the horrific incident she had endured last night.

Ever since her mother had passed, she had spent her years in this home living like an outsider, for her father had brought home his mistress and his illegitimate daughter to form a new family.

Anastasia's poor mother had never known about her husband's extra-marital affairs, not even in her death.

I will never come back to this place ever again.

Inside the house, Erica watched as Anastasia dragged her suitcase out the front door, and a wicked smile curled on her lips. I finally got rid of that useless eyesore!

…

Five years later, a knock came on the front door of an apartment in Dansbury.

The woman living in the apartment had been poring over her designs when she heard the knock. A little bewildered, she walked up to the door and pulled it open unhappily. When she saw the two Asian men in suits, she asked in Chinese, "Who are you looking for?"

"Are you Miss Anastasia Tillman?" one of the two men asked in English.

"I am. And you are?" Anastasia pressed.

"We were asked to look for you. Your mother, Amelia Chapman, saved our young master's life back in the day. The old madam whom we serve wishes to see you."

She frowned at this. "Who's the old madam you serve?"

"Old Madam Presgrave," the first man answered respectfully.

Upon hearing this, Anastasia understood what had brought these men here. Old Madam Presgrave was the woman behind the Presgrave Group, the foremost conglomerate in the country. Years ago, Anastasia's mother had sacrificed her life to save Old Madam Presgrave's oldest grandson.

It gave Anastasia great pride to have been born to a police officer as capable and righteous as Amelia.

"I'm sorry, but I don't intend to see her," Anastasia said decidedly. She had a feeling that the Presgraves wanted to repay Amelia's great deed, but she had no plans of accepting their gesture whatsoever.

Just then, a childish and curious voice sounded from somewhere inside the apartment, asking, "Mommy,

who is it?"

"No one," Anastasia replied hastily. Then, she turned to address the men at the door, "Sorry, but I'm really not in a mood for guests at the moment."

With that, she closed the door.

Meanwhile, back in the country, a man was seated on the couch inside the villa tucked halfway up the hill. "Have you tracked her down?"

"Yes, Young Master Elliot. The girl from the clubhouse five years ago just sold off your watch at the second-hand market."

"Find her," said the man on the couch, his voice deep and authoritative.

"Yes, sir!"

"Divorce and you'll get $10 million." The CEO husband ordered.
Without telling him she's pregnant , she agreed and went abroad for a new life. Then the husband was completely panicked.

Chapter 1 A Night of Absurdities

"Anastasia, help! I've been molested at the club!"

The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you, and what do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice spoke close to her ear.

The next second, Anastasia was unceremoniously tossed onto the couch, and before she could scramble to her feet, a lean and strong body pinned her down.

She let out a muffled cry when a pair of lips that tasted like peppermint captured hers.

The man on top of her felt burning hot to the touch. A sense of hopelessness brought tears to her eyes as she tried to struggle against the man, but in the end, she could do nothing but endure the man's ferocity.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized the two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

Shock and rage colored Anastasia's features when she saw them. "Stop right there, Hayley!" she called out loudly over the distance as her fists clenched tightly at her sides.

Upon hearing this, Hayley and Erica swiveled around to face her. Anastasia glowered at them, ashen-faced as she demanded of Hayley, "Why would you lie to me?!"

Hayley smirked. "It's not my fault that you're always so gullible, Anastasia."

"Did you have a good time with that gigolo back there?" Erica asked in a sing-song voice, smiling wickedly.

It was only then that Anastasia realized that both of them had set her up. The chastity she had held dear for the past nineteen years was now sacrificed for their despicable glee.

Presently, Hayley's eyes were frosty as she seethed, "Did you actually think I was your friend, Anastasia? I've been living in your shadow ever since we met! I hate you, and I want nothing more than to ruin that face of yours!"

Erica, on the other hand, swiftly interjected by mocking, "I have the proof I need to show Dad that you've been pimping yourself for money at the club. It won't be long until you're thrown out of the house!"

"You two—" Anastasia was so furious that she swayed. Her body was in tatters after the ordeal she had been through, and the collective weight of her friend's betrayal and her sister's cruelty nearly knocked her down.

"Let's go, Hayley! We don't want to be seen with trash, do we?" With her arm looped through Hayley's, Erica led her toward the sports car she had parked by the curb.

Three days later, at the Tillman Residence, a low male voice yelled out in rage, "You became an escort for money just because I wouldn't let you go abroad for your studies? How can I, Francis Tillman, be capable of having such a shameless daughter like you?"

"Dad, I didn't—"

"You didn't? But you did, Anastasia! How could you go to such shameless lengths? Did we starve you, or did we deprive you of anything? I can't believe you would pimp yourself to random strangers in a filthy clubhouse! For your sake, I hope you haven't brought any disease back to this house. Who knows what my daughter and I could have caught from you," the woman who was dressed in jewels and fine clothes sneered from where she sat on the couch.

"Dad, I really didn't do it. I—" Anastasia tried to explain herself.

However, Francis did not want to hear another word from her. He glowered at her maliciously as he snapped, "Still lying to me, I see. Get out of this home right now! I will not stand to have you under my roof. No daughter of mine could be so shameless. From now on, you are not my child!"

Meanwhile, on the staircase landing, Erica watched this scene play out as she leaned against the banister with her chin propped on her hand. Everything was going exactly the way she had planned. In a matter of minutes, Anastasia was going to be cast out of the house and wander around like some pathetic stray mutt.

Downstairs in the living room, Anastasia fell silent when she saw the thunderous and disappointed look on her father's face. She wordlessly rose from her seat and walked up the stairs to pack up her things.

She had only just rounded the landing when Erica barricaded her. With her arms crossed haughtily in front of her chest, the younger girl sneered, "Get out of here! Don't linger around like an eyesore. This house will never have a place for you ever again!"

Anastasia clenched her fists as she glowered at Erica's pleased expression.

Seeing the hatred and anger in Anastasia's eyes, Erica leaned forward. "What, do you want to slap me or something?" She turned her cheek toward the fuming girl and said smugly, "Go right ahead, then!"

Without holding back, Anastasia brought her hand down across Erica's face, resulting in a hard slap.

"Ah!" Erica let out a shrill cry. "You just hit me! Mom, Dad—Anastasia just hit me!" She howled as she bolted down the stairs.

Naomi Lowell quickly pulled her daughter into her arms and cried up the stairwell, "How dare you strike my daughter, Anastasia! What the hell are you playing at?!"

Francis glanced at the red imprints on Erica's cheek, and he had never been more disappointed in his life. When did my oldest daughter become so infuriatingly rebellious?

"Dad, it hurts..." Erica sobbed as she burrowed into her father's arms, taking in exaggerated deep breaths like she was in great pain.

"Get out of here, Anastasia!" Francis roared up the stairs.

Having packed up her things, Anastasia grabbed her passport and went down the stairs. Her heart grew stone-cold when she saw how her own father was holding Erica in his arms like she was something precious.

Anastasia knew then that she indeed had no place in his heart. Francis had only heard Erica's side of the story instead of asking Anastasia about the horrific incident she had endured last night.

Ever since her mother had passed, she had spent her years in this home living like an outsider, for her father had brought home his mistress and his illegitimate daughter to form a new family.

Anastasia's poor mother had never known about her husband's extra-marital affairs, not even in her death.

I will never come back to this place ever again.

Inside the house, Erica watched as Anastasia dragged her suitcase out the front door, and a wicked smile curled on her lips. I finally got rid of that useless eyesore!

…

Five years later, a knock came on the front door of an apartment in Dansbury.

The woman living in the apartment had been poring over her designs when she heard the knock. A little bewildered, she walked up to the door and pulled it open unhappily. When she saw the two Asian men in suits, she asked in Chinese, "Who are you looking for?"

"Are you Miss Anastasia Tillman?" one of the two men asked in English.

"I am. And you are?" Anastasia pressed.

"We were asked to look for you. Your mother, Amelia Chapman, saved our young master's life back in the day. The old madam whom we serve wishes to see you."

She frowned at this. "Who's the old madam you serve?"

"Old Madam Presgrave," the first man answered respectfully.

Upon hearing this, Anastasia understood what had brought these men here. Old Madam Presgrave was the woman behind the Presgrave Group, the foremost conglomerate in the country. Years ago, Anastasia's mother had sacrificed her life to save Old Madam Presgrave's oldest grandson.

It gave Anastasia great pride to have been born to a police officer as capable and righteous as Amelia.

"I'm sorry, but I don't intend to see her," Anastasia said decidedly. She had a feeling that the Presgraves wanted to repay Amelia's great deed, but she had no plans of accepting their gesture whatsoever.

Just then, a childish and curious voice sounded from somewhere inside the apartment, asking, "Mommy,

who is it?"

"No one," Anastasia replied hastily. Then, she turned to address the men at the door, "Sorry, but I'm really not in a mood for guests at the moment."

With that, she closed the door.

Meanwhile, back in the country, a man was seated on the couch inside the villa tucked halfway up the hill. "Have you tracked her down?"

"Yes, Young Master Elliot. The girl from the clubhouse five years ago just sold off your watch at the second-hand market."

"Find her," said the man on the couch, his voice deep and authoritative.

"Yes, sir!"

When she and her brother were kidnapped in the last life
everyone chose to save their brothers first, and she was
eventually killed by the kidnappers. This time she was born
again, and none of her five brothers could escape.
-------------------------------------------------------

Simone Gray opened her eyes, surveyed the surroundings, and looked at the familiar room from her memories. She had indeed returned. Reaching out to grab her phone from the nightstand, she checked the date before a smile appeared in her eyes. What perfect timing.

Just as she was thinking, a knocking sound echoed. She got up to open the door and saw a handsome man standing there, questioning her immediately, "I called you earlier. Why didn't you answer?"

Simone replied calmly, "I didn't feel like it."

Standing before her was her second brother, Titus Gray, who was also her current agent.

He was momentarily stunned, visibly not expecting his sister to say that. He furrowed his brows and lectured impatiently, "Stop causing trouble, will you?"

She raised an eyebrow. "Say something new. I'm tired of hearing the cliche from all of you."

Since returning to the Gray Family, her mother and five brothers kept telling her not to cause trouble.

Titus choked. "Is this amusing to you? Jo wants to be in that variety show. What harm would it do if you just let that happen? Must you make the whole family unhappy?"

Simone looked at him coldly. "This is an opportunity I fought for myself. I won't give it up. It's your business if you're unhappy."

Simone did not grow up with her family from a young age. Instead, she got lost at four when Aaron Gray, her fifth brother, took her out to play. After that, the Gray Family adopted a girl of similar age and even changed her name to Jodie Gray.

A year ago, the Gray Family found Simone and brought her back home. However, they overly favored Jodie and looked down on Simone. Whenever she clashed with the adopted daughter, it was always Simone who was considered troublesome.

Before entering the entertainment industry, she worked hard and used her talent to climb from an unknown to a C-list actress in just over a year. After being recognized by the family, they brought her home, asked her to terminate the contract with her original company, and transferred her to the entertainment company owned by the Gray Family. In the meantime, Titus became her agent.

Jodie, who originally studied music, suddenly wanted a part in the entertainment industry. She also joined the company and was mentored by Titus. In the past year, she received all the good resources, directly jumping from an unknown to a C-list actress.

Meanwhile, the resources Titus provided Simone were the ones that Jodie rejected. Last month, she saved the wife of a director and gained a spot as a guest on a highly anticipated new variety show before it even aired.

Similarly, Jodie showed interest in the show and expressed her desire to join. However, the guests were already confirmed, and it was not easy for someone of Jodie's popularity to be added under special circumstances. Hence, Titus and the family suggested that Simone give up her spot to Jodie.

She knew that Jodie intentionally wanted to snatch her opportunity, so she refused and was then condemned by her entire family. Last night, she insisted on not giving up her spot and returned to her room after arguing with them.

Titus had appeared now because Jodie had not given up and pretended to be pitiful in front of him; that was why he came to her again. He took a deep breath. "I'll find you a better opportunity. Just give this up for Jo."

Simone sneered. "I don’t care about your better opportunity. Just give it to your beloved Jodie." She did not want to waste any more words with Titus and simply shut the door.

His eyes showed some disbelief when he looked at the closed door. That was the first time Simone had shown him disrespect since returning home, his expression dark. "Simone, you're being unreasonable."

He knocked on the door again, but she did not open it. Only then did he leave with a stern face. After shutting the door, Simone's heart could barely stir up emotions. In her previous life, she yearned for family affection, and after being recognized, she had always tried to please the Grays.

For instance, she took care of their various needs, made their meals, gave massages, accompanied them in acting and dancing, and so on. She tried to fulfill whatever tasks or requests they had, but in the end, she failed to make them love her. When she and Jodie were kidnapped, everyone chose to rescue Jodie first, and she ended up losing her life.

At that moment of death, she completely lost hope and severed her ties with the Gray Family. However, she did not expect to be bound by a system that took her to various mini timelines to fulfill tasks. Upon completion, she would be rewarded with life points, and only by accumulating them could she return to this world.

Simone extended her right hand and looked at her palm; her lifeline was short. It meant that she had less than a year left, only until the time of her death in her previous life.

The system informed her during the unbinding process that she needed to be adored by more people to extend her life. The more people who favored her, or the more people she helped to gain popularity, the longer her life would be.

It was similar to exchanging faith for life points but would not affect those who liked her. Otherwise, she would not harm others for the sake of extending her own life. Now, saving her life was crucial because she needed more time or energy to continue getting entangled with the Grays.

She packed up her belongings and put them in a suitcase. Since returning to the Gray Family, everything was bought for her by the housekeeper, and she did not take anything. As such, she calculated the expenses since coming to the Gray Family and noted them down.

At the same time, she took out the bank card her father gave her when she returned. Luckily, she had not used any money in it. She opened the door as she carried the suitcase and went downstairs.

At that moment, everyone was in the living room. When they saw Simone with her bags, they were displeased. Salma Johnston frowned and looked at her. "What trouble are you up to this time? It's been nothing but chaos ever since you returned."

Simone found it amusing. "Did I insist on returning? I remember you all came to pick me up, right? And what trouble did I cause? Jodie wanted my resources, and not giving them makes me the bad guy? If we're being clear here, aren't all of you the unreasonable ones?"

Salma did not expect Simone to talk back, so her displeasure deepened. "Jo just likes that variety show. You're the young lady of the Gray Family now, while Jo has lost that status. Shouldn't you compensate her? Moreover, Titus said he'd get you a better opportunity in exchange. Why do you have to fight over it?"

Luca Gray, the third brother, added, "I think you just can't stand Jo, so you deliberately target her."

Andrew Gray, the fourth, impatiently said, "Simone, can't you just be good? Why do you have to cause trouble?"

In her previous life, Simone might have been upset by such unfair accusations, but not anymore. Instead, she sneered and said, "You guys are truly good at blaming others for your own fault. I never knew that defending what's rightfully mine would make me the unreasonable one. First of all, I never stole anything from her in the first place. On the contrary, she replaced me and enjoyed a comfortable life in the Gray Family for years. Secondly, you need to understand that it was you who lost me back then. I don't owe her anything, and I certainly don't owe any of you either. So, what exactly do I need to compensate for?" When Salma was about to speak, Simone added, "As for the young lady of the Gray Family, she can have it. I don't really care about it."

Salma was stunned for a moment, not expecting Simone to say such things. "What do you mean?"

Simone replied with indifference, "I mean it literally. I am cutting off all ties with you and leaving the family. In the future, we will go back to being strangers when we meet." She added, "Your beloved adopted daughter will remain the little princess of the Grays. You don't need to worry that I will steal anything from her or try to take your love for her. I am simply making things easier for all of you."

Chapter 2 Who Needs Such A Brother

Simone couldn't care less about her biased parents and brothers, treating them as if they had no blood relation to her.

When she was young, Aaron lost her, and human traffickers intended to sell her. Thanks to her master saving and adopting her, her life wasn't as miserable as it could have been.

Her words successfully changed the expressions of the Grays. They never expected her to decide to cut ties and leave them.

Jodie, leaning against Salma, glanced at Simone with a subtle expression. She looked at her while her face showed an apologetic and guilty expression. "No. The one who should leave is me. I'm sorry; I didn't mean to snatch your opportunity. I just liked that variety show, so Titus went to talk to you. I don't want to participate in that variety show anymore. You don't need to be unhappy. I don't want to anger and worry you."

On the surface, she appeared guilty, but in reality, it was a strategic retreat. This way, she could distance herself from accusations of intentionally competing with Simone for resources while also showcasing her considerate and generous nature. She was playing her act in front of the Grays, subtly implying that Simone was using the threat of cutting ties and leaving the Gray Family.

As expected, the family members' expressions turned unpleasant.

Simone looked at Jodie and retorted without reservation, "Don't try to act innocent and pitiful in front of me with that look. I won't fall for that." She spoke her mind without holding back after completely giving up on family affection. "You say you want to leave and have been saying it for a year, but you’re still here. I've long been tired of your act of strategic retreat. Only fools would believe it." She intentionally exposed the truth. "Of course, you wouldn't actively ask me for resources. As long as you say it, they will naturally present you with whatever you want. You don't need to put on a show for them. I don't care about your thoughts since I've already stopped caring about what you guys think."

These words successfully darkened the faces of the Grays.

Jodie's expression changed slightly. She suppressed the anger in her heart and hugged Salma with a touch of grievance. "I'm not. Don't say such things about our family."

In her heart, she wondered if Simone had gone crazy by choosing to confront her head-on and speaking so harshly. Although being rebuked by Simone left her feeling quite displeased, the fact that Simone had created such a scene today would only make everybody dislike her even more. So, she endured her sarcasm.

As expected, Salma was infuriated. "What are you saying? Where are your manners?"

Simone shrugged. "I was born to my parents but not raised by them. My manners have long vanished."

The family was speechless. Salma looked at Simone with disappointment. "Are you still blaming us? It seems we made a mistake bringing you home. We've compensated you a lot this year. What more do you want? Why do you have to compete with Jo? Can't you just peacefully be sisters?" She emphasized. "Although you are our biological daughter, Jo has been by our side all these years in your place. In our hearts, she's an important part of the Gray Family; she's my daughter."

Simone used to find these words piercing and heart-wrenching, but she truly didn't care anymore. "What did I compete for? Since I returned to the family, you two have been clinging to me. Everything I do is interpreted as vying for favor and wanting things that don't belong to me."

She took the bank card from her bag and threw it onto the table in front of them. "This is the compensation you gave me, and I haven't used a single penny from it." There were 150 thousand on this card, barely the amount of Jodie's monthly allowance, but that was the compensation for Simone over the years. "I won't take away the things the housekeeper bought for me, but for the things I've used, I will pay you in cash."

Then, she placed the written paper on the table. "In the year plus that I've been here, I've spent less than 15 thousand, including living expenses. Here's the list. I just transferred 15 thousand to this card. From now on, we settle our accounts."

What could be solved with money was not a problem. So, on her side, she and the Grays were even, but what they owed her would be forever outstanding.

Simone's actions made the Grays feel as if she were serious, rendering them somewhat embarrassed. Salma couldn't accept that her daughter, who had been obedient all those while, would do such a rebellious and disobedient thing.

She slammed the table with her hand, her face full of anger. "Fine. Go ahead. But once you step out of our gate today, don't think about coming back."

She believed Simone wouldn't act on it. Just as Jodie said, this was a tactic of strategic retreat by threatening them with leaving. If Simone succeeded this time, who knew how she would stir things up in the future?

Salma let Simone leave, not because she wanted her to but to warn her not to cause trouble again. The others didn't speak, unanimously sharing the same thoughts.

Of course, Simone knew what they were thinking. I look like I'm bluffing, don't I? "I'm leaving for good." After saying that, she grabbed her suitcase while showing no attachment and turned to leave.

Seeing this, Steven Gray, her father, spoke, "Stop making a fuss. Jo won't want that variety show opportunity anymore. In the future, I'll have Titus fight for some good gigs for you."

Regardless of the circumstances, she was still his biological daughter, and he couldn't let her leave just like that. Moreover, leaving home after just over a year since returning would make their family a joke in the eyes of others.

Simone turned around and looked at her father indifferently. "You think I'd stay for your so-called gigs?"

He frowned. "I didn't mean that. All I'm saying is that you are now part of the family, so we will naturally compensate you."

She found it ridiculous. "Thank you for your compensation. For the past year, I have deeply experienced your emotional abuse, complaints, and disdain. So, I'll pass on that."

Steven was taken aback as he looked at Simone, who seemed unyielding and unapproachable. "What do you want, then?" He was usually busy and had neglected his biological daughter for more than a year.

She affirmed, "I want to sever ties with you. It's as simple as that. There's no need to contact each other in the future. Goodbye."

He was infuriated by Simone's attitude, while the Gray brothers also appeared displeasing. Especially Aaron, who regarded her with a complex and indignant expression. "Are you still blaming me? Are you trying to make us compromise and compete for Jo's favor?"

Simone stared at him icily. "Are you suggesting that I shouldn't hold you accountable? Back then, you lost track of me and allowed human traffickers to abduct me. I was almost sold off to the mountains. Should I express gratitude for losing me back then?"

Aaron's face flushed and then paled. "I didn't mean to do that, and I wasn't even aware that you were almost sold off to the mountains."

She raised an eyebrow. " Does saying that erase the fact that you lost me and changed the course of my life?"

Upon her return to the Gray Family, he exhibited more kindness and concern compared to her four brothers and her parents, but it all seemed like an attempt to make up for his past mistakes.

However, whenever she had conflicts with Jodie, he always sided with the latter. Therefore, I don't need a brother who doesn't truly love me.

Chapter 3 She's Had Enough

Simone's words left Aaron unsure of what to say for a moment. While he had not intended to lose her back then, he indeed caused his younger sister to be lost for many years and deprived her of the life of a wealthy young lady.

She continued, "I'll repeat. I no longer care about you guys, so I have zero interest in vying for favor with Jodie."

Titus scowled. "Think it over. If you sever ties with us, don't expect any resources from the company."

The eldest brother, Reuben Gray, added, "We might even boycott you."

They hoped that by saying this, Simone would reconsider for the sake of her future. They wanted her to know her limits and back down.

However, she suddenly burst into laughter. "You speak as if you've given me a lot of resources this past year. Since I joined Gray Entertainment, the resources I received are not even close to what I used to get from that small company that often exploited me. Not only are the resources few and poor, but I've also been attacked online, where you didn't bother calling the PR. You even want to snatch away the resources I managed to secure for myself for Jodie. You truly have the nerve to use this to threaten me."

At the sight of their darkened faces, she continued, "Fortunately, when I joined the company, I didn't sign any contracts, so I won't need to terminate any."

At the time, Reuben and Titus had assured her they were all one family, so there was no need to bother signing contracts because they would not make her suffer any losses. Since she did not know what it would be like when she returned to the Gray Family, she agreed, thinking it would be wise to keep some leverage. As expected, she had not made a mistake in keeping her options open.

Otherwise, if she wanted to terminate the contract, she would have to pay a substantial penalty. If she could not afford it, she was sure they would go as far as blacklisting her if she did not cooperate.

"From today onwards, I won't serve you anymore. Do whatever you want. You didn't publicly announce my identity, so I won't have to announce it to the public either. Goodbye forever!" She turned away once again, this time briskly leaving with her suitcase. Once outside, she pressed the pause button on the recording on her phone.

Upon seeing Simone's resolute departure, the Grays felt dissatisfied besides anger. Then, Salma furiously said, "She actually left. It's outrageous."

Titus said with a scowling face, "Since she's so stubborn, I'll have her know that once she leaves us, she'll be and have nothing." He felt that Simone's sudden rebellion was aimed at him as he asked her to give up her spot for Jodie, angering her. Subsequently, he turned to Reuben and said, "Ben, get in touch with other entertainment companies. Tell them not to sign Simone."

Reuben nodded. "All right."

Faced with a once obedient sister who suddenly rebelled, he thought of giving her a taste of reality and making her understand that being willful had consequences. After seeing Reuben's agreement, Titus squinted his eyes. "No matter how independent she is, she won't go far. Soon, she'll be begging to come back."

He would also inform the agents in the industry not to sign Simone.

Hearing the words of her two brothers, Jodie felt a sense of joy in her heart. However, she said with a self-blaming expression, "It's all my fault for making Simone angry and leaving. Reuben, Titus, please don't do this. When she calms down, I'll apologize to her, and she'll come back." The more she said this, the more the family felt that Simone was being willful and became more resentful.

Sure enough, Reuben said, "This has nothing to do with you. She just doesn't know how to be content."

The other four boys in the Gray Family agreed. "Exactly. She's already obtained the status of the young lady of the Gray Family, yet she always wants to compete with you. It's unreasonable."

"You don't need to apologize to her. That would spoil her."

"If we don't show her some toughness, she'll continue causing trouble at home."

Compared to Jodie, Simone was willful. Salma thought for a moment, patted Jodie on the shoulder, and said, "We know you're kind-hearted, so you don't need to worry about this matter. Your brothers know what to do. She'll behave when she comes back."

Hearing the words of the others, Steven also felt that it made sense. If Simone could not handle the outside world, she would naturally come back and seek reconciliation. Therefore, he did not object to it.

Jodie then nodded helplessly. "All right."

Meanwhile, Simone returned to the apartment she had rented after coming to Cebros. Even after returning to the Gray Family, she did not cancel the lease. Whenever she had conflicts with them or felt unhappy staying there, she would come and live there for a few days.

After cleaning up her apartment, her phone rang. She was momentarily taken aback as a hint of mockery flashed in her eyes. It was someone she had always been unwilling to think about—her childhood sweetheart and boyfriend, Leon Foster.

When she was adopted by her master, she lived next door to Leon's grandfather, and the two old gentlemen had a good relationship. Back then, when she was abused by human traffickers and dared not step out of the yard, it was Leon who held her hand and walked her out, resembling a ray of sunshine that shone into her heart.

She emerged from the shadow of human traffickers and started clinging to him, someone five years older than her. When he was in high school, he was brought back to Cebros by his family. To catch up with him, she worked hard to skip grades and entered a university in Cebros. After he entered the entertainment industry for two years, she graduated from college and joined the industry as well.

Upon her return to the Grays, she took the initiative to confess to Leon, who did not reject. She always thought that he treated her differently. However, in her previous life, he made her feel the pain of betrayal.

In this second chance at life, she did not want to have any entanglements with him anymore. As such, she answered the phone coldly, "What's the matter?"

Leon found her attitude today a bit cold, but he did not take it to heart. "Are you not going on that variety show?"

Simone retorted. "Who said that?" She knew he also hoped she would give up the spot for Jodie, which was why he called to probe her.

He replied, "I heard from Titus that you're going to give up the spot."

"There's no such thing. I won't give up the spot for anyone."

He couldn't help but furrow his brow. "Won't you listen to Titus?"

She sneered. "Why should I?"

Leon and Titus were classmates in high school and had maintained a good relationship, staying in touch. That's why Leon came to persuade her to give up her previous life. Initially, she didn't suspect Jodie because she believed Leon genuinely cared for her.

His frown deepened. "Titus is your agent, so he must have your best interests at heart. Don't be stubborn."

She coldly snorted. "What am I being stubborn about? Am I being stubborn and unreasonable just because I won't give Jodie what she wants?" She sarcastically added, "If I give in, the Gray Family will think I'm sensible, and you'll happily be with your lover."

She had reached her limit. In her previous life, she eventually gave up her position due to pressure from the Gray Family and Leon's persuasion.

With the Gray Family's marketing, Leon's care, and assistance on the variety show, Jodie successfully portrayed herself as a kind-hearted lady and quickly gained popularity. The so-called good opportunities provided by Titus turned out to be a minor role in a drama with few scenes. Ultimately, the drama was never released due to controversy with the male lead.

What surprised her even more was that Leon had received an invitation to the same variety show, but he had never told her. She only found out when the show premiered, and he was one of the mysterious guests.

Observing Leon subtly taking care of Jodie, she realized that these two knew each other and that his feelings for Jodie were unusual. However, after watching only the first episode of the variety show, she had to leave for the filming of a drama.

When she finished shooting, six months had already passed. At that time, she was a bit perplexed and unsure whether she should continue interacting with the Grays and Leon. Through a stroke of luck and a fortunate opportunity, she managed to secure the leading role in a niche film. As a result, she headed to a remote and mountainous area to shoot the film.

"Divorce and you'll get $10 million." The CEO husband ordered.
Without telling him she's pregnant , she agreed and went abroad for a new life. Then the husband was completely panicked.

Chapter 1 A Night of Absurdities

"Anastasia, help! I've been molested at the club!"

The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you, and what do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice spoke close to her ear.

The next second, Anastasia was unceremoniously tossed onto the couch, and before she could scramble to her feet, a lean and strong body pinned her down.

She let out a muffled cry when a pair of lips that tasted like peppermint captured hers.

The man on top of her felt burning hot to the touch. A sense of hopelessness brought tears to her eyes as she tried to struggle against the man, but in the end, she could do nothing but endure the man's ferocity.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized the two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

Shock and rage colored Anastasia's features when she saw them. "Stop right there, Hayley!" she called out loudly over the distance as her fists clenched tightly at her sides.

Upon hearing this, Hayley and Erica swiveled around to face her. Anastasia glowered at them, ashen-faced as she demanded of Hayley, "Why would you lie to me?!"

Hayley smirked. "It's not my fault that you're always so gullible, Anastasia."

"Did you have a good time with that gigolo back there?" Erica asked in a sing-song voice, smiling wickedly.

It was only then that Anastasia realized that both of them had set her up. The chastity she had held dear for the past nineteen years was now sacrificed for their despicable glee.

Presently, Hayley's eyes were frosty as she seethed, "Did you actually think I was your friend, Anastasia? I've been living in your shadow ever since we met! I hate you, and I want nothing more than to ruin that face of yours!"

Erica, on the other hand, swiftly interjected by mocking, "I have the proof I need to show Dad that you've been pimping yourself for money at the club. It won't be long until you're thrown out of the house!"

"You two—" Anastasia was so furious that she swayed. Her body was in tatters after the ordeal she had been through, and the collective weight of her friend's betrayal and her sister's cruelty nearly knocked her down.

"Let's go, Hayley! We don't want to be seen with trash, do we?" With her arm looped through Hayley's, Erica led her toward the sports car she had parked by the curb.

Three days later, at the Tillman Residence, a low male voice yelled out in rage, "You became an escort for money just because I wouldn't let you go abroad for your studies? How can I, Francis Tillman, be capable of having such a shameless daughter like you?"

"Dad, I didn't—"

"You didn't? But you did, Anastasia! How could you go to such shameless lengths? Did we starve you, or did we deprive you of anything? I can't believe you would pimp yourself to random strangers in a filthy clubhouse! For your sake, I hope you haven't brought any disease back to this house. Who knows what my daughter and I could have caught from you," the woman who was dressed in jewels and fine clothes sneered from where she sat on the couch.

"Dad, I really didn't do it. I—" Anastasia tried to explain herself.

However, Francis did not want to hear another word from her. He glowered at her maliciously as he snapped, "Still lying to me, I see. Get out of this home right now! I will not stand to have you under my roof. No daughter of mine could be so shameless. From now on, you are not my child!"

Meanwhile, on the staircase landing, Erica watched this scene play out as she leaned against the banister with her chin propped on her hand. Everything was going exactly the way she had planned. In a matter of minutes, Anastasia was going to be cast out of the house and wander around like some pathetic stray mutt.

Downstairs in the living room, Anastasia fell silent when she saw the thunderous and disappointed look on her father's face. She wordlessly rose from her seat and walked up the stairs to pack up her things.

She had only just rounded the landing when Erica barricaded her. With her arms crossed haughtily in front of her chest, the younger girl sneered, "Get out of here! Don't linger around like an eyesore. This house will never have a place for you ever again!"

Anastasia clenched her fists as she glowered at Erica's pleased expression.

Seeing the hatred and anger in Anastasia's eyes, Erica leaned forward. "What, do you want to slap me or something?" She turned her cheek toward the fuming girl and said smugly, "Go right ahead, then!"

Without holding back, Anastasia brought her hand down across Erica's face, resulting in a hard slap.

"Ah!" Erica let out a shrill cry. "You just hit me! Mom, Dad—Anastasia just hit me!" She howled as she bolted down the stairs.

Naomi Lowell quickly pulled her daughter into her arms and cried up the stairwell, "How dare you strike my daughter, Anastasia! What the hell are you playing at?!"

Francis glanced at the red imprints on Erica's cheek, and he had never been more disappointed in his life. When did my oldest daughter become so infuriatingly rebellious?

"Dad, it hurts..." Erica sobbed as she burrowed into her father's arms, taking in exaggerated deep breaths like she was in great pain.

"Get out of here, Anastasia!" Francis roared up the stairs.

Having packed up her things, Anastasia grabbed her passport and went down the stairs. Her heart grew stone-cold when she saw how her own father was holding Erica in his arms like she was something precious.

Anastasia knew then that she indeed had no place in his heart. Francis had only heard Erica's side of the story instead of asking Anastasia about the horrific incident she had endured last night.

Ever since her mother had passed, she had spent her years in this home living like an outsider, for her father had brought home his mistress and his illegitimate daughter to form a new family.

Anastasia's poor mother had never known about her husband's extra-marital affairs, not even in her death.

I will never come back to this place ever again.

Inside the house, Erica watched as Anastasia dragged her suitcase out the front door, and a wicked smile curled on her lips. I finally got rid of that useless eyesore!

…

Five years later, a knock came on the front door of an apartment in Dansbury.

The woman living in the apartment had been poring over her designs when she heard the knock. A little bewildered, she walked up to the door and pulled it open unhappily. When she saw the two Asian men in suits, she asked in Chinese, "Who are you looking for?"

"Are you Miss Anastasia Tillman?" one of the two men asked in English.

"I am. And you are?" Anastasia pressed.

"We were asked to look for you. Your mother, Amelia Chapman, saved our young master's life back in the day. The old madam whom we serve wishes to see you."

She frowned at this. "Who's the old madam you serve?"

"Old Madam Presgrave," the first man answered respectfully.

Upon hearing this, Anastasia understood what had brought these men here. Old Madam Presgrave was the woman behind the Presgrave Group, the foremost conglomerate in the country. Years ago, Anastasia's mother had sacrificed her life to save Old Madam Presgrave's oldest grandson.

It gave Anastasia great pride to have been born to a police officer as capable and righteous as Amelia.

"I'm sorry, but I don't intend to see her," Anastasia said decidedly. She had a feeling that the Presgraves wanted to repay Amelia's great deed, but she had no plans of accepting their gesture whatsoever.

Just then, a childish and curious voice sounded from somewhere inside the apartment, asking, "Mommy,

who is it?"

"No one," Anastasia replied hastily. Then, she turned to address the men at the door, "Sorry, but I'm really not in a mood for guests at the moment."

With that, she closed the door.

Meanwhile, back in the country, a man was seated on the couch inside the villa tucked halfway up the hill. "Have you tracked her down?"

"Yes, Young Master Elliot. The girl from the clubhouse five years ago just sold off your watch at the second-hand market."

"Find her," said the man on the couch, his voice deep and authoritative.

"Yes, sir!"

When she and her brother were kidnapped in the last life
everyone chose to save their brothers first, and she was
eventually killed by the kidnappers. This time she was born
again, and none of her five brothers could escape.
-------------------------------------------------------

Simone Gray opened her eyes, surveyed the surroundings, and looked at the familiar room from her memories. She had indeed returned. Reaching out to grab her phone from the nightstand, she checked the date before a smile appeared in her eyes. What perfect timing.

Just as she was thinking, a knocking sound echoed. She got up to open the door and saw a handsome man standing there, questioning her immediately, "I called you earlier. Why didn't you answer?"

Simone replied calmly, "I didn't feel like it."

Standing before her was her second brother, Titus Gray, who was also her current agent.

He was momentarily stunned, visibly not expecting his sister to say that. He furrowed his brows and lectured impatiently, "Stop causing trouble, will you?"

She raised an eyebrow. "Say something new. I'm tired of hearing the cliche from all of you."

Since returning to the Gray Family, her mother and five brothers kept telling her not to cause trouble.

Titus choked. "Is this amusing to you? Jo wants to be in that variety show. What harm would it do if you just let that happen? Must you make the whole family unhappy?"

Simone looked at him coldly. "This is an opportunity I fought for myself. I won't give it up. It's your business if you're unhappy."

Simone did not grow up with her family from a young age. Instead, she got lost at four when Aaron Gray, her fifth brother, took her out to play. After that, the Gray Family adopted a girl of similar age and even changed her name to Jodie Gray.

A year ago, the Gray Family found Simone and brought her back home. However, they overly favored Jodie and looked down on Simone. Whenever she clashed with the adopted daughter, it was always Simone who was considered troublesome.

Before entering the entertainment industry, she worked hard and used her talent to climb from an unknown to a C-list actress in just over a year. After being recognized by the family, they brought her home, asked her to terminate the contract with her original company, and transferred her to the entertainment company owned by the Gray Family. In the meantime, Titus became her agent.

Jodie, who originally studied music, suddenly wanted a part in the entertainment industry. She also joined the company and was mentored by Titus. In the past year, she received all the good resources, directly jumping from an unknown to a C-list actress.

Meanwhile, the resources Titus provided Simone were the ones that Jodie rejected. Last month, she saved the wife of a director and gained a spot as a guest on a highly anticipated new variety show before it even aired.

Similarly, Jodie showed interest in the show and expressed her desire to join. However, the guests were already confirmed, and it was not easy for someone of Jodie's popularity to be added under special circumstances. Hence, Titus and the family suggested that Simone give up her spot to Jodie.

She knew that Jodie intentionally wanted to snatch her opportunity, so she refused and was then condemned by her entire family. Last night, she insisted on not giving up her spot and returned to her room after arguing with them.

Titus had appeared now because Jodie had not given up and pretended to be pitiful in front of him; that was why he came to her again. He took a deep breath. "I'll find you a better opportunity. Just give this up for Jo."

Simone sneered. "I don’t care about your better opportunity. Just give it to your beloved Jodie." She did not want to waste any more words with Titus and simply shut the door.

His eyes showed some disbelief when he looked at the closed door. That was the first time Simone had shown him disrespect since returning home, his expression dark. "Simone, you're being unreasonable."

He knocked on the door again, but she did not open it. Only then did he leave with a stern face. After shutting the door, Simone's heart could barely stir up emotions. In her previous life, she yearned for family affection, and after being recognized, she had always tried to please the Grays.

For instance, she took care of their various needs, made their meals, gave massages, accompanied them in acting and dancing, and so on. She tried to fulfill whatever tasks or requests they had, but in the end, she failed to make them love her. When she and Jodie were kidnapped, everyone chose to rescue Jodie first, and she ended up losing her life.

At that moment of death, she completely lost hope and severed her ties with the Gray Family. However, she did not expect to be bound by a system that took her to various mini timelines to fulfill tasks. Upon completion, she would be rewarded with life points, and only by accumulating them could she return to this world.

Simone extended her right hand and looked at her palm; her lifeline was short. It meant that she had less than a year left, only until the time of her death in her previous life.

The system informed her during the unbinding process that she needed to be adored by more people to extend her life. The more people who favored her, or the more people she helped to gain popularity, the longer her life would be.

It was similar to exchanging faith for life points but would not affect those who liked her. Otherwise, she would not harm others for the sake of extending her own life. Now, saving her life was crucial because she needed more time or energy to continue getting entangled with the Grays.

She packed up her belongings and put them in a suitcase. Since returning to the Gray Family, everything was bought for her by the housekeeper, and she did not take anything. As such, she calculated the expenses since coming to the Gray Family and noted them down.

At the same time, she took out the bank card her father gave her when she returned. Luckily, she had not used any money in it. She opened the door as she carried the suitcase and went downstairs.

At that moment, everyone was in the living room. When they saw Simone with her bags, they were displeased. Salma Johnston frowned and looked at her. "What trouble are you up to this time? It's been nothing but chaos ever since you returned."

Simone found it amusing. "Did I insist on returning? I remember you all came to pick me up, right? And what trouble did I cause? Jodie wanted my resources, and not giving them makes me the bad guy? If we're being clear here, aren't all of you the unreasonable ones?"

Salma did not expect Simone to talk back, so her displeasure deepened. "Jo just likes that variety show. You're the young lady of the Gray Family now, while Jo has lost that status. Shouldn't you compensate her? Moreover, Titus said he'd get you a better opportunity in exchange. Why do you have to fight over it?"

Luca Gray, the third brother, added, "I think you just can't stand Jo, so you deliberately target her."

Andrew Gray, the fourth, impatiently said, "Simone, can't you just be good? Why do you have to cause trouble?"

In her previous life, Simone might have been upset by such unfair accusations, but not anymore. Instead, she sneered and said, "You guys are truly good at blaming others for your own fault. I never knew that defending what's rightfully mine would make me the unreasonable one. First of all, I never stole anything from her in the first place. On the contrary, she replaced me and enjoyed a comfortable life in the Gray Family for years. Secondly, you need to understand that it was you who lost me back then. I don't owe her anything, and I certainly don't owe any of you either. So, what exactly do I need to compensate for?" When Salma was about to speak, Simone added, "As for the young lady of the Gray Family, she can have it. I don't really care about it."

Salma was stunned for a moment, not expecting Simone to say such things. "What do you mean?"

Simone replied with indifference, "I mean it literally. I am cutting off all ties with you and leaving the family. In the future, we will go back to being strangers when we meet." She added, "Your beloved adopted daughter will remain the little princess of the Grays. You don't need to worry that I will steal anything from her or try to take your love for her. I am simply making things easier for all of you."

Chapter 2 Who Needs Such A Brother

Simone couldn't care less about her biased parents and brothers, treating them as if they had no blood relation to her.

When she was young, Aaron lost her, and human traffickers intended to sell her. Thanks to her master saving and adopting her, her life wasn't as miserable as it could have been.

Her words successfully changed the expressions of the Grays. They never expected her to decide to cut ties and leave them.

Jodie, leaning against Salma, glanced at Simone with a subtle expression. She looked at her while her face showed an apologetic and guilty expression. "No. The one who should leave is me. I'm sorry; I didn't mean to snatch your opportunity. I just liked that variety show, so Titus went to talk to you. I don't want to participate in that variety show anymore. You don't need to be unhappy. I don't want to anger and worry you."

On the surface, she appeared guilty, but in reality, it was a strategic retreat. This way, she could distance herself from accusations of intentionally competing with Simone for resources while also showcasing her considerate and generous nature. She was playing her act in front of the Grays, subtly implying that Simone was using the threat of cutting ties and leaving the Gray Family.

As expected, the family members' expressions turned unpleasant.

Simone looked at Jodie and retorted without reservation, "Don't try to act innocent and pitiful in front of me with that look. I won't fall for that." She spoke her mind without holding back after completely giving up on family affection. "You say you want to leave and have been saying it for a year, but you’re still here. I've long been tired of your act of strategic retreat. Only fools would believe it." She intentionally exposed the truth. "Of course, you wouldn't actively ask me for resources. As long as you say it, they will naturally present you with whatever you want. You don't need to put on a show for them. I don't care about your thoughts since I've already stopped caring about what you guys think."

These words successfully darkened the faces of the Grays.

Jodie's expression changed slightly. She suppressed the anger in her heart and hugged Salma with a touch of grievance. "I'm not. Don't say such things about our family."

In her heart, she wondered if Simone had gone crazy by choosing to confront her head-on and speaking so harshly. Although being rebuked by Simone left her feeling quite displeased, the fact that Simone had created such a scene today would only make everybody dislike her even more. So, she endured her sarcasm.

As expected, Salma was infuriated. "What are you saying? Where are your manners?"

Simone shrugged. "I was born to my parents but not raised by them. My manners have long vanished."

The family was speechless. Salma looked at Simone with disappointment. "Are you still blaming us? It seems we made a mistake bringing you home. We've compensated you a lot this year. What more do you want? Why do you have to compete with Jo? Can't you just peacefully be sisters?" She emphasized. "Although you are our biological daughter, Jo has been by our side all these years in your place. In our hearts, she's an important part of the Gray Family; she's my daughter."

Simone used to find these words piercing and heart-wrenching, but she truly didn't care anymore. "What did I compete for? Since I returned to the family, you two have been clinging to me. Everything I do is interpreted as vying for favor and wanting things that don't belong to me."

She took the bank card from her bag and threw it onto the table in front of them. "This is the compensation you gave me, and I haven't used a single penny from it." There were 150 thousand on this card, barely the amount of Jodie's monthly allowance, but that was the compensation for Simone over the years. "I won't take away the things the housekeeper bought for me, but for the things I've used, I will pay you in cash."

Then, she placed the written paper on the table. "In the year plus that I've been here, I've spent less than 15 thousand, including living expenses. Here's the list. I just transferred 15 thousand to this card. From now on, we settle our accounts."

What could be solved with money was not a problem. So, on her side, she and the Grays were even, but what they owed her would be forever outstanding.

Simone's actions made the Grays feel as if she were serious, rendering them somewhat embarrassed. Salma couldn't accept that her daughter, who had been obedient all those while, would do such a rebellious and disobedient thing.

She slammed the table with her hand, her face full of anger. "Fine. Go ahead. But once you step out of our gate today, don't think about coming back."

She believed Simone wouldn't act on it. Just as Jodie said, this was a tactic of strategic retreat by threatening them with leaving. If Simone succeeded this time, who knew how she would stir things up in the future?

Salma let Simone leave, not because she wanted her to but to warn her not to cause trouble again. The others didn't speak, unanimously sharing the same thoughts.

Of course, Simone knew what they were thinking. I look like I'm bluffing, don't I? "I'm leaving for good." After saying that, she grabbed her suitcase while showing no attachment and turned to leave.

Seeing this, Steven Gray, her father, spoke, "Stop making a fuss. Jo won't want that variety show opportunity anymore. In the future, I'll have Titus fight for some good gigs for you."

Regardless of the circumstances, she was still his biological daughter, and he couldn't let her leave just like that. Moreover, leaving home after just over a year since returning would make their family a joke in the eyes of others.

Simone turned around and looked at her father indifferently. "You think I'd stay for your so-called gigs?"

He frowned. "I didn't mean that. All I'm saying is that you are now part of the family, so we will naturally compensate you."

She found it ridiculous. "Thank you for your compensation. For the past year, I have deeply experienced your emotional abuse, complaints, and disdain. So, I'll pass on that."

Steven was taken aback as he looked at Simone, who seemed unyielding and unapproachable. "What do you want, then?" He was usually busy and had neglected his biological daughter for more than a year.

She affirmed, "I want to sever ties with you. It's as simple as that. There's no need to contact each other in the future. Goodbye."

He was infuriated by Simone's attitude, while the Gray brothers also appeared displeasing. Especially Aaron, who regarded her with a complex and indignant expression. "Are you still blaming me? Are you trying to make us compromise and compete for Jo's favor?"

Simone stared at him icily. "Are you suggesting that I shouldn't hold you accountable? Back then, you lost track of me and allowed human traffickers to abduct me. I was almost sold off to the mountains. Should I express gratitude for losing me back then?"

Aaron's face flushed and then paled. "I didn't mean to do that, and I wasn't even aware that you were almost sold off to the mountains."

She raised an eyebrow. " Does saying that erase the fact that you lost me and changed the course of my life?"

Upon her return to the Gray Family, he exhibited more kindness and concern compared to her four brothers and her parents, but it all seemed like an attempt to make up for his past mistakes.

However, whenever she had conflicts with Jodie, he always sided with the latter. Therefore, I don't need a brother who doesn't truly love me.

Chapter 3 She's Had Enough

Simone's words left Aaron unsure of what to say for a moment. While he had not intended to lose her back then, he indeed caused his younger sister to be lost for many years and deprived her of the life of a wealthy young lady.

She continued, "I'll repeat. I no longer care about you guys, so I have zero interest in vying for favor with Jodie."

Titus scowled. "Think it over. If you sever ties with us, don't expect any resources from the company."

The eldest brother, Reuben Gray, added, "We might even boycott you."

They hoped that by saying this, Simone would reconsider for the sake of her future. They wanted her to know her limits and back down.

However, she suddenly burst into laughter. "You speak as if you've given me a lot of resources this past year. Since I joined Gray Entertainment, the resources I received are not even close to what I used to get from that small company that often exploited me. Not only are the resources few and poor, but I've also been attacked online, where you didn't bother calling the PR. You even want to snatch away the resources I managed to secure for myself for Jodie. You truly have the nerve to use this to threaten me."

At the sight of their darkened faces, she continued, "Fortunately, when I joined the company, I didn't sign any contracts, so I won't need to terminate any."

At the time, Reuben and Titus had assured her they were all one family, so there was no need to bother signing contracts because they would not make her suffer any losses. Since she did not know what it would be like when she returned to the Gray Family, she agreed, thinking it would be wise to keep some leverage. As expected, she had not made a mistake in keeping her options open.

Otherwise, if she wanted to terminate the contract, she would have to pay a substantial penalty. If she could not afford it, she was sure they would go as far as blacklisting her if she did not cooperate.

"From today onwards, I won't serve you anymore. Do whatever you want. You didn't publicly announce my identity, so I won't have to announce it to the public either. Goodbye forever!" She turned away once again, this time briskly leaving with her suitcase. Once outside, she pressed the pause button on the recording on her phone.

Upon seeing Simone's resolute departure, the Grays felt dissatisfied besides anger. Then, Salma furiously said, "She actually left. It's outrageous."

Titus said with a scowling face, "Since she's so stubborn, I'll have her know that once she leaves us, she'll be and have nothing." He felt that Simone's sudden rebellion was aimed at him as he asked her to give up her spot for Jodie, angering her. Subsequently, he turned to Reuben and said, "Ben, get in touch with other entertainment companies. Tell them not to sign Simone."

Reuben nodded. "All right."

Faced with a once obedient sister who suddenly rebelled, he thought of giving her a taste of reality and making her understand that being willful had consequences. After seeing Reuben's agreement, Titus squinted his eyes. "No matter how independent she is, she won't go far. Soon, she'll be begging to come back."

He would also inform the agents in the industry not to sign Simone.

Hearing the words of her two brothers, Jodie felt a sense of joy in her heart. However, she said with a self-blaming expression, "It's all my fault for making Simone angry and leaving. Reuben, Titus, please don't do this. When she calms down, I'll apologize to her, and she'll come back." The more she said this, the more the family felt that Simone was being willful and became more resentful.

Sure enough, Reuben said, "This has nothing to do with you. She just doesn't know how to be content."

The other four boys in the Gray Family agreed. "Exactly. She's already obtained the status of the young lady of the Gray Family, yet she always wants to compete with you. It's unreasonable."

"You don't need to apologize to her. That would spoil her."

"If we don't show her some toughness, she'll continue causing trouble at home."

Compared to Jodie, Simone was willful. Salma thought for a moment, patted Jodie on the shoulder, and said, "We know you're kind-hearted, so you don't need to worry about this matter. Your brothers know what to do. She'll behave when she comes back."

Hearing the words of the others, Steven also felt that it made sense. If Simone could not handle the outside world, she would naturally come back and seek reconciliation. Therefore, he did not object to it.

Jodie then nodded helplessly. "All right."

Meanwhile, Simone returned to the apartment she had rented after coming to Cebros. Even after returning to the Gray Family, she did not cancel the lease. Whenever she had conflicts with them or felt unhappy staying there, she would come and live there for a few days.

After cleaning up her apartment, her phone rang. She was momentarily taken aback as a hint of mockery flashed in her eyes. It was someone she had always been unwilling to think about—her childhood sweetheart and boyfriend, Leon Foster.

When she was adopted by her master, she lived next door to Leon's grandfather, and the two old gentlemen had a good relationship. Back then, when she was abused by human traffickers and dared not step out of the yard, it was Leon who held her hand and walked her out, resembling a ray of sunshine that shone into her heart.

She emerged from the shadow of human traffickers and started clinging to him, someone five years older than her. When he was in high school, he was brought back to Cebros by his family. To catch up with him, she worked hard to skip grades and entered a university in Cebros. After he entered the entertainment industry for two years, she graduated from college and joined the industry as well.

Upon her return to the Grays, she took the initiative to confess to Leon, who did not reject. She always thought that he treated her differently. However, in her previous life, he made her feel the pain of betrayal.

In this second chance at life, she did not want to have any entanglements with him anymore. As such, she answered the phone coldly, "What's the matter?"

Leon found her attitude today a bit cold, but he did not take it to heart. "Are you not going on that variety show?"

Simone retorted. "Who said that?" She knew he also hoped she would give up the spot for Jodie, which was why he called to probe her.

He replied, "I heard from Titus that you're going to give up the spot."

"There's no such thing. I won't give up the spot for anyone."

He couldn't help but furrow his brow. "Won't you listen to Titus?"

She sneered. "Why should I?"

Leon and Titus were classmates in high school and had maintained a good relationship, staying in touch. That's why Leon came to persuade her to give up her previous life. Initially, she didn't suspect Jodie because she believed Leon genuinely cared for her.

His frown deepened. "Titus is your agent, so he must have your best interests at heart. Don't be stubborn."

She coldly snorted. "What am I being stubborn about? Am I being stubborn and unreasonable just because I won't give Jodie what she wants?" She sarcastically added, "If I give in, the Gray Family will think I'm sensible, and you'll happily be with your lover."

She had reached her limit. In her previous life, she eventually gave up her position due to pressure from the Gray Family and Leon's persuasion.

With the Gray Family's marketing, Leon's care, and assistance on the variety show, Jodie successfully portrayed herself as a kind-hearted lady and quickly gained popularity. The so-called good opportunities provided by Titus turned out to be a minor role in a drama with few scenes. Ultimately, the drama was never released due to controversy with the male lead.

What surprised her even more was that Leon had received an invitation to the same variety show, but he had never told her. She only found out when the show premiered, and he was one of the mysterious guests.

Observing Leon subtly taking care of Jodie, she realized that these two knew each other and that his feelings for Jodie were unusual. However, after watching only the first episode of the variety show, she had to leave for the filming of a drama.

When she finished shooting, six months had already passed. At that time, she was a bit perplexed and unsure whether she should continue interacting with the Grays and Leon. Through a stroke of luck and a fortunate opportunity, she managed to secure the leading role in a niche film. As a result, she headed to a remote and mountainous area to shoot the film.

When she and her brother were kidnapped in the last life
everyone chose to save their brothers first, and she was
eventually killed by the kidnappers. This time she was born
again, and none of her five brothers could escape.
-------------------------------------------------------

Simone Gray opened her eyes, surveyed the surroundings, and looked at the familiar room from her memories. She had indeed returned. Reaching out to grab her phone from the nightstand, she checked the date before a smile appeared in her eyes. What perfect timing.

Just as she was thinking, a knocking sound echoed. She got up to open the door and saw a handsome man standing there, questioning her immediately, "I called you earlier. Why didn't you answer?"

Simone replied calmly, "I didn't feel like it."

Standing before her was her second brother, Titus Gray, who was also her current agent.

He was momentarily stunned, visibly not expecting his sister to say that. He furrowed his brows and lectured impatiently, "Stop causing trouble, will you?"

She raised an eyebrow. "Say something new. I'm tired of hearing the cliche from all of you."

Since returning to the Gray Family, her mother and five brothers kept telling her not to cause trouble.

Titus choked. "Is this amusing to you? Jo wants to be in that variety show. What harm would it do if you just let that happen? Must you make the whole family unhappy?"

Simone looked at him coldly. "This is an opportunity I fought for myself. I won't give it up. It's your business if you're unhappy."

Simone did not grow up with her family from a young age. Instead, she got lost at four when Aaron Gray, her fifth brother, took her out to play. After that, the Gray Family adopted a girl of similar age and even changed her name to Jodie Gray.

A year ago, the Gray Family found Simone and brought her back home. However, they overly favored Jodie and looked down on Simone. Whenever she clashed with the adopted daughter, it was always Simone who was considered troublesome.

Before entering the entertainment industry, she worked hard and used her talent to climb from an unknown to a C-list actress in just over a year. After being recognized by the family, they brought her home, asked her to terminate the contract with her original company, and transferred her to the entertainment company owned by the Gray Family. In the meantime, Titus became her agent.

Jodie, who originally studied music, suddenly wanted a part in the entertainment industry. She also joined the company and was mentored by Titus. In the past year, she received all the good resources, directly jumping from an unknown to a C-list actress.

Meanwhile, the resources Titus provided Simone were the ones that Jodie rejected. Last month, she saved the wife of a director and gained a spot as a guest on a highly anticipated new variety show before it even aired.

Similarly, Jodie showed interest in the show and expressed her desire to join. However, the guests were already confirmed, and it was not easy for someone of Jodie's popularity to be added under special circumstances. Hence, Titus and the family suggested that Simone give up her spot to Jodie.

She knew that Jodie intentionally wanted to snatch her opportunity, so she refused and was then condemned by her entire family. Last night, she insisted on not giving up her spot and returned to her room after arguing with them.

Titus had appeared now because Jodie had not given up and pretended to be pitiful in front of him; that was why he came to her again. He took a deep breath. "I'll find you a better opportunity. Just give this up for Jo."

Simone sneered. "I don’t care about your better opportunity. Just give it to your beloved Jodie." She did not want to waste any more words with Titus and simply shut the door.

His eyes showed some disbelief when he looked at the closed door. That was the first time Simone had shown him disrespect since returning home, his expression dark. "Simone, you're being unreasonable."

He knocked on the door again, but she did not open it. Only then did he leave with a stern face. After shutting the door, Simone's heart could barely stir up emotions. In her previous life, she yearned for family affection, and after being recognized, she had always tried to please the Grays.

For instance, she took care of their various needs, made their meals, gave massages, accompanied them in acting and dancing, and so on. She tried to fulfill whatever tasks or requests they had, but in the end, she failed to make them love her. When she and Jodie were kidnapped, everyone chose to rescue Jodie first, and she ended up losing her life.

At that moment of death, she completely lost hope and severed her ties with the Gray Family. However, she did not expect to be bound by a system that took her to various mini timelines to fulfill tasks. Upon completion, she would be rewarded with life points, and only by accumulating them could she return to this world.

Simone extended her right hand and looked at her palm; her lifeline was short. It meant that she had less than a year left, only until the time of her death in her previous life.

The system informed her during the unbinding process that she needed to be adored by more people to extend her life. The more people who favored her, or the more people she helped to gain popularity, the longer her life would be.

It was similar to exchanging faith for life points but would not affect those who liked her. Otherwise, she would not harm others for the sake of extending her own life. Now, saving her life was crucial because she needed more time or energy to continue getting entangled with the Grays.

She packed up her belongings and put them in a suitcase. Since returning to the Gray Family, everything was bought for her by the housekeeper, and she did not take anything. As such, she calculated the expenses since coming to the Gray Family and noted them down.

At the same time, she took out the bank card her father gave her when she returned. Luckily, she had not used any money in it. She opened the door as she carried the suitcase and went downstairs.

At that moment, everyone was in the living room. When they saw Simone with her bags, they were displeased. Salma Johnston frowned and looked at her. "What trouble are you up to this time? It's been nothing but chaos ever since you returned."

Simone found it amusing. "Did I insist on returning? I remember you all came to pick me up, right? And what trouble did I cause? Jodie wanted my resources, and not giving them makes me the bad guy? If we're being clear here, aren't all of you the unreasonable ones?"

Salma did not expect Simone to talk back, so her displeasure deepened. "Jo just likes that variety show. You're the young lady of the Gray Family now, while Jo has lost that status. Shouldn't you compensate her? Moreover, Titus said he'd get you a better opportunity in exchange. Why do you have to fight over it?"

Luca Gray, the third brother, added, "I think you just can't stand Jo, so you deliberately target her."

Andrew Gray, the fourth, impatiently said, "Simone, can't you just be good? Why do you have to cause trouble?"

In her previous life, Simone might have been upset by such unfair accusations, but not anymore. Instead, she sneered and said, "You guys are truly good at blaming others for your own fault. I never knew that defending what's rightfully mine would make me the unreasonable one. First of all, I never stole anything from her in the first place. On the contrary, she replaced me and enjoyed a comfortable life in the Gray Family for years. Secondly, you need to understand that it was you who lost me back then. I don't owe her anything, and I certainly don't owe any of you either. So, what exactly do I need to compensate for?" When Salma was about to speak, Simone added, "As for the young lady of the Gray Family, she can have it. I don't really care about it."

Salma was stunned for a moment, not expecting Simone to say such things. "What do you mean?"

Simone replied with indifference, "I mean it literally. I am cutting off all ties with you and leaving the family. In the future, we will go back to being strangers when we meet." She added, "Your beloved adopted daughter will remain the little princess of the Grays. You don't need to worry that I will steal anything from her or try to take your love for her. I am simply making things easier for all of you."

Chapter 2 Who Needs Such A Brother

Simone couldn't care less about her biased parents and brothers, treating them as if they had no blood relation to her.

When she was young, Aaron lost her, and human traffickers intended to sell her. Thanks to her master saving and adopting her, her life wasn't as miserable as it could have been.

Her words successfully changed the expressions of the Grays. They never expected her to decide to cut ties and leave them.

Jodie, leaning against Salma, glanced at Simone with a subtle expression. She looked at her while her face showed an apologetic and guilty expression. "No. The one who should leave is me. I'm sorry; I didn't mean to snatch your opportunity. I just liked that variety show, so Titus went to talk to you. I don't want to participate in that variety show anymore. You don't need to be unhappy. I don't want to anger and worry you."

On the surface, she appeared guilty, but in reality, it was a strategic retreat. This way, she could distance herself from accusations of intentionally competing with Simone for resources while also showcasing her considerate and generous nature. She was playing her act in front of the Grays, subtly implying that Simone was using the threat of cutting ties and leaving the Gray Family.

As expected, the family members' expressions turned unpleasant.

Simone looked at Jodie and retorted without reservation, "Don't try to act innocent and pitiful in front of me with that look. I won't fall for that." She spoke her mind without holding back after completely giving up on family affection. "You say you want to leave and have been saying it for a year, but you’re still here. I've long been tired of your act of strategic retreat. Only fools would believe it." She intentionally exposed the truth. "Of course, you wouldn't actively ask me for resources. As long as you say it, they will naturally present you with whatever you want. You don't need to put on a show for them. I don't care about your thoughts since I've already stopped caring about what you guys think."

These words successfully darkened the faces of the Grays.

Jodie's expression changed slightly. She suppressed the anger in her heart and hugged Salma with a touch of grievance. "I'm not. Don't say such things about our family."

In her heart, she wondered if Simone had gone crazy by choosing to confront her head-on and speaking so harshly. Although being rebuked by Simone left her feeling quite displeased, the fact that Simone had created such a scene today would only make everybody dislike her even more. So, she endured her sarcasm.

As expected, Salma was infuriated. "What are you saying? Where are your manners?"

Simone shrugged. "I was born to my parents but not raised by them. My manners have long vanished."

The family was speechless. Salma looked at Simone with disappointment. "Are you still blaming us? It seems we made a mistake bringing you home. We've compensated you a lot this year. What more do you want? Why do you have to compete with Jo? Can't you just peacefully be sisters?" She emphasized. "Although you are our biological daughter, Jo has been by our side all these years in your place. In our hearts, she's an important part of the Gray Family; she's my daughter."

Simone used to find these words piercing and heart-wrenching, but she truly didn't care anymore. "What did I compete for? Since I returned to the family, you two have been clinging to me. Everything I do is interpreted as vying for favor and wanting things that don't belong to me."

She took the bank card from her bag and threw it onto the table in front of them. "This is the compensation you gave me, and I haven't used a single penny from it." There were 150 thousand on this card, barely the amount of Jodie's monthly allowance, but that was the compensation for Simone over the years. "I won't take away the things the housekeeper bought for me, but for the things I've used, I will pay you in cash."

Then, she placed the written paper on the table. "In the year plus that I've been here, I've spent less than 15 thousand, including living expenses. Here's the list. I just transferred 15 thousand to this card. From now on, we settle our accounts."

What could be solved with money was not a problem. So, on her side, she and the Grays were even, but what they owed her would be forever outstanding.

Simone's actions made the Grays feel as if she were serious, rendering them somewhat embarrassed. Salma couldn't accept that her daughter, who had been obedient all those while, would do such a rebellious and disobedient thing.

She slammed the table with her hand, her face full of anger. "Fine. Go ahead. But once you step out of our gate today, don't think about coming back."

She believed Simone wouldn't act on it. Just as Jodie said, this was a tactic of strategic retreat by threatening them with leaving. If Simone succeeded this time, who knew how she would stir things up in the future?

Salma let Simone leave, not because she wanted her to but to warn her not to cause trouble again. The others didn't speak, unanimously sharing the same thoughts.

Of course, Simone knew what they were thinking. I look like I'm bluffing, don't I? "I'm leaving for good." After saying that, she grabbed her suitcase while showing no attachment and turned to leave.

Seeing this, Steven Gray, her father, spoke, "Stop making a fuss. Jo won't want that variety show opportunity anymore. In the future, I'll have Titus fight for some good gigs for you."

Regardless of the circumstances, she was still his biological daughter, and he couldn't let her leave just like that. Moreover, leaving home after just over a year since returning would make their family a joke in the eyes of others.

Simone turned around and looked at her father indifferently. "You think I'd stay for your so-called gigs?"

He frowned. "I didn't mean that. All I'm saying is that you are now part of the family, so we will naturally compensate you."

She found it ridiculous. "Thank you for your compensation. For the past year, I have deeply experienced your emotional abuse, complaints, and disdain. So, I'll pass on that."

Steven was taken aback as he looked at Simone, who seemed unyielding and unapproachable. "What do you want, then?" He was usually busy and had neglected his biological daughter for more than a year.

She affirmed, "I want to sever ties with you. It's as simple as that. There's no need to contact each other in the future. Goodbye."

He was infuriated by Simone's attitude, while the Gray brothers also appeared displeasing. Especially Aaron, who regarded her with a complex and indignant expression. "Are you still blaming me? Are you trying to make us compromise and compete for Jo's favor?"

Simone stared at him icily. "Are you suggesting that I shouldn't hold you accountable? Back then, you lost track of me and allowed human traffickers to abduct me. I was almost sold off to the mountains. Should I express gratitude for losing me back then?"

Aaron's face flushed and then paled. "I didn't mean to do that, and I wasn't even aware that you were almost sold off to the mountains."

She raised an eyebrow. " Does saying that erase the fact that you lost me and changed the course of my life?"

Upon her return to the Gray Family, he exhibited more kindness and concern compared to her four brothers and her parents, but it all seemed like an attempt to make up for his past mistakes.

However, whenever she had conflicts with Jodie, he always sided with the latter. Therefore, I don't need a brother who doesn't truly love me.

Chapter 3 She's Had Enough

Simone's words left Aaron unsure of what to say for a moment. While he had not intended to lose her back then, he indeed caused his younger sister to be lost for many years and deprived her of the life of a wealthy young lady.

She continued, "I'll repeat. I no longer care about you guys, so I have zero interest in vying for favor with Jodie."

Titus scowled. "Think it over. If you sever ties with us, don't expect any resources from the company."

The eldest brother, Reuben Gray, added, "We might even boycott you."

They hoped that by saying this, Simone would reconsider for the sake of her future. They wanted her to know her limits and back down.

However, she suddenly burst into laughter. "You speak as if you've given me a lot of resources this past year. Since I joined Gray Entertainment, the resources I received are not even close to what I used to get from that small company that often exploited me. Not only are the resources few and poor, but I've also been attacked online, where you didn't bother calling the PR. You even want to snatch away the resources I managed to secure for myself for Jodie. You truly have the nerve to use this to threaten me."

At the sight of their darkened faces, she continued, "Fortunately, when I joined the company, I didn't sign any contracts, so I won't need to terminate any."

At the time, Reuben and Titus had assured her they were all one family, so there was no need to bother signing contracts because they would not make her suffer any losses. Since she did not know what it would be like when she returned to the Gray Family, she agreed, thinking it would be wise to keep some leverage. As expected, she had not made a mistake in keeping her options open.

Otherwise, if she wanted to terminate the contract, she would have to pay a substantial penalty. If she could not afford it, she was sure they would go as far as blacklisting her if she did not cooperate.

"From today onwards, I won't serve you anymore. Do whatever you want. You didn't publicly announce my identity, so I won't have to announce it to the public either. Goodbye forever!" She turned away once again, this time briskly leaving with her suitcase. Once outside, she pressed the pause button on the recording on her phone.

Upon seeing Simone's resolute departure, the Grays felt dissatisfied besides anger. Then, Salma furiously said, "She actually left. It's outrageous."

Titus said with a scowling face, "Since she's so stubborn, I'll have her know that once she leaves us, she'll be and have nothing." He felt that Simone's sudden rebellion was aimed at him as he asked her to give up her spot for Jodie, angering her. Subsequently, he turned to Reuben and said, "Ben, get in touch with other entertainment companies. Tell them not to sign Simone."

Reuben nodded. "All right."

Faced with a once obedient sister who suddenly rebelled, he thought of giving her a taste of reality and making her understand that being willful had consequences. After seeing Reuben's agreement, Titus squinted his eyes. "No matter how independent she is, she won't go far. Soon, she'll be begging to come back."

He would also inform the agents in the industry not to sign Simone.

Hearing the words of her two brothers, Jodie felt a sense of joy in her heart. However, she said with a self-blaming expression, "It's all my fault for making Simone angry and leaving. Reuben, Titus, please don't do this. When she calms down, I'll apologize to her, and she'll come back." The more she said this, the more the family felt that Simone was being willful and became more resentful.

Sure enough, Reuben said, "This has nothing to do with you. She just doesn't know how to be content."

The other four boys in the Gray Family agreed. "Exactly. She's already obtained the status of the young lady of the Gray Family, yet she always wants to compete with you. It's unreasonable."

"You don't need to apologize to her. That would spoil her."

"If we don't show her some toughness, she'll continue causing trouble at home."

Compared to Jodie, Simone was willful. Salma thought for a moment, patted Jodie on the shoulder, and said, "We know you're kind-hearted, so you don't need to worry about this matter. Your brothers know what to do. She'll behave when she comes back."

Hearing the words of the others, Steven also felt that it made sense. If Simone could not handle the outside world, she would naturally come back and seek reconciliation. Therefore, he did not object to it.

Jodie then nodded helplessly. "All right."

Meanwhile, Simone returned to the apartment she had rented after coming to Cebros. Even after returning to the Gray Family, she did not cancel the lease. Whenever she had conflicts with them or felt unhappy staying there, she would come and live there for a few days.

After cleaning up her apartment, her phone rang. She was momentarily taken aback as a hint of mockery flashed in her eyes. It was someone she had always been unwilling to think about—her childhood sweetheart and boyfriend, Leon Foster.

When she was adopted by her master, she lived next door to Leon's grandfather, and the two old gentlemen had a good relationship. Back then, when she was abused by human traffickers and dared not step out of the yard, it was Leon who held her hand and walked her out, resembling a ray of sunshine that shone into her heart.

She emerged from the shadow of human traffickers and started clinging to him, someone five years older than her. When he was in high school, he was brought back to Cebros by his family. To catch up with him, she worked hard to skip grades and entered a university in Cebros. After he entered the entertainment industry for two years, she graduated from college and joined the industry as well.

Upon her return to the Grays, she took the initiative to confess to Leon, who did not reject. She always thought that he treated her differently. However, in her previous life, he made her feel the pain of betrayal.

In this second chance at life, she did not want to have any entanglements with him anymore. As such, she answered the phone coldly, "What's the matter?"

Leon found her attitude today a bit cold, but he did not take it to heart. "Are you not going on that variety show?"

Simone retorted. "Who said that?" She knew he also hoped she would give up the spot for Jodie, which was why he called to probe her.

He replied, "I heard from Titus that you're going to give up the spot."

"There's no such thing. I won't give up the spot for anyone."

He couldn't help but furrow his brow. "Won't you listen to Titus?"

She sneered. "Why should I?"

Leon and Titus were classmates in high school and had maintained a good relationship, staying in touch. That's why Leon came to persuade her to give up her previous life. Initially, she didn't suspect Jodie because she believed Leon genuinely cared for her.

His frown deepened. "Titus is your agent, so he must have your best interests at heart. Don't be stubborn."

She coldly snorted. "What am I being stubborn about? Am I being stubborn and unreasonable just because I won't give Jodie what she wants?" She sarcastically added, "If I give in, the Gray Family will think I'm sensible, and you'll happily be with your lover."

She had reached her limit. In her previous life, she eventually gave up her position due to pressure from the Gray Family and Leon's persuasion.

With the Gray Family's marketing, Leon's care, and assistance on the variety show, Jodie successfully portrayed herself as a kind-hearted lady and quickly gained popularity. The so-called good opportunities provided by Titus turned out to be a minor role in a drama with few scenes. Ultimately, the drama was never released due to controversy with the male lead.

What surprised her even more was that Leon had received an invitation to the same variety show, but he had never told her. She only found out when the show premiered, and he was one of the mysterious guests.

Observing Leon subtly taking care of Jodie, she realized that these two knew each other and that his feelings for Jodie were unusual. However, after watching only the first episode of the variety show, she had to leave for the filming of a drama.

When she finished shooting, six months had already passed. At that time, she was a bit perplexed and unsure whether she should continue interacting with the Grays and Leon. Through a stroke of luck and a fortunate opportunity, she managed to secure the leading role in a niche film. As a result, she headed to a remote and mountainous area to shoot the film.

"Anastasia, help!‘’
The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you. What do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice was getting close to her ear.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

Read Next Chapter Now👉

When she and her brother were kidnapped in the last life
everyone chose to save their brothers first, and she was
eventually killed by the kidnappers. This time she was born
again, and none of her five brothers could escape.
-------------------------------------------------------

Simone Gray opened her eyes, surveyed the surroundings, and looked at the familiar room from her memories. She had indeed returned. Reaching out to grab her phone from the nightstand, she checked the date before a smile appeared in her eyes. What perfect timing.

Just as she was thinking, a knocking sound echoed. She got up to open the door and saw a handsome man standing there, questioning her immediately, "I called you earlier. Why didn't you answer?"

Simone replied calmly, "I didn't feel like it."

Standing before her was her second brother, Titus Gray, who was also her current agent.

He was momentarily stunned, visibly not expecting his sister to say that. He furrowed his brows and lectured impatiently, "Stop causing trouble, will you?"

She raised an eyebrow. "Say something new. I'm tired of hearing the cliche from all of you."

Since returning to the Gray Family, her mother and five brothers kept telling her not to cause trouble.

Titus choked. "Is this amusing to you? Jo wants to be in that variety show. What harm would it do if you just let that happen? Must you make the whole family unhappy?"

Simone looked at him coldly. "This is an opportunity I fought for myself. I won't give it up. It's your business if you're unhappy."

Simone did not grow up with her family from a young age. Instead, she got lost at four when Aaron Gray, her fifth brother, took her out to play. After that, the Gray Family adopted a girl of similar age and even changed her name to Jodie Gray.

A year ago, the Gray Family found Simone and brought her back home. However, they overly favored Jodie and looked down on Simone. Whenever she clashed with the adopted daughter, it was always Simone who was considered troublesome.

Before entering the entertainment industry, she worked hard and used her talent to climb from an unknown to a C-list actress in just over a year. After being recognized by the family, they brought her home, asked her to terminate the contract with her original company, and transferred her to the entertainment company owned by the Gray Family. In the meantime, Titus became her agent.

Jodie, who originally studied music, suddenly wanted a part in the entertainment industry. She also joined the company and was mentored by Titus. In the past year, she received all the good resources, directly jumping from an unknown to a C-list actress.

Meanwhile, the resources Titus provided Simone were the ones that Jodie rejected. Last month, she saved the wife of a director and gained a spot as a guest on a highly anticipated new variety show before it even aired.

Similarly, Jodie showed interest in the show and expressed her desire to join. However, the guests were already confirmed, and it was not easy for someone of Jodie's popularity to be added under special circumstances. Hence, Titus and the family suggested that Simone give up her spot to Jodie.

She knew that Jodie intentionally wanted to snatch her opportunity, so she refused and was then condemned by her entire family. Last night, she insisted on not giving up her spot and returned to her room after arguing with them.

Titus had appeared now because Jodie had not given up and pretended to be pitiful in front of him; that was why he came to her again. He took a deep breath. "I'll find you a better opportunity. Just give this up for Jo."

Simone sneered. "I don’t care about your better opportunity. Just give it to your beloved Jodie." She did not want to waste any more words with Titus and simply shut the door.

His eyes showed some disbelief when he looked at the closed door. That was the first time Simone had shown him disrespect since returning home, his expression dark. "Simone, you're being unreasonable."

He knocked on the door again, but she did not open it. Only then did he leave with a stern face. After shutting the door, Simone's heart could barely stir up emotions. In her previous life, she yearned for family affection, and after being recognized, she had always tried to please the Grays.

For instance, she took care of their various needs, made their meals, gave massages, accompanied them in acting and dancing, and so on. She tried to fulfill whatever tasks or requests they had, but in the end, she failed to make them love her. When she and Jodie were kidnapped, everyone chose to rescue Jodie first, and she ended up losing her life.

At that moment of death, she completely lost hope and severed her ties with the Gray Family. However, she did not expect to be bound by a system that took her to various mini timelines to fulfill tasks. Upon completion, she would be rewarded with life points, and only by accumulating them could she return to this world.

Simone extended her right hand and looked at her palm; her lifeline was short. It meant that she had less than a year left, only until the time of her death in her previous life.

The system informed her during the unbinding process that she needed to be adored by more people to extend her life. The more people who favored her, or the more people she helped to gain popularity, the longer her life would be.

It was similar to exchanging faith for life points but would not affect those who liked her. Otherwise, she would not harm others for the sake of extending her own life. Now, saving her life was crucial because she needed more time or energy to continue getting entangled with the Grays.

She packed up her belongings and put them in a suitcase. Since returning to the Gray Family, everything was bought for her by the housekeeper, and she did not take anything. As such, she calculated the expenses since coming to the Gray Family and noted them down.

At the same time, she took out the bank card her father gave her when she returned. Luckily, she had not used any money in it. She opened the door as she carried the suitcase and went downstairs.

At that moment, everyone was in the living room. When they saw Simone with her bags, they were displeased. Salma Johnston frowned and looked at her. "What trouble are you up to this time? It's been nothing but chaos ever since you returned."

Simone found it amusing. "Did I insist on returning? I remember you all came to pick me up, right? And what trouble did I cause? Jodie wanted my resources, and not giving them makes me the bad guy? If we're being clear here, aren't all of you the unreasonable ones?"

Salma did not expect Simone to talk back, so her displeasure deepened. "Jo just likes that variety show. You're the young lady of the Gray Family now, while Jo has lost that status. Shouldn't you compensate her? Moreover, Titus said he'd get you a better opportunity in exchange. Why do you have to fight over it?"

Luca Gray, the third brother, added, "I think you just can't stand Jo, so you deliberately target her."

Andrew Gray, the fourth, impatiently said, "Simone, can't you just be good? Why do you have to cause trouble?"

In her previous life, Simone might have been upset by such unfair accusations, but not anymore. Instead, she sneered and said, "You guys are truly good at blaming others for your own fault. I never knew that defending what's rightfully mine would make me the unreasonable one. First of all, I never stole anything from her in the first place. On the contrary, she replaced me and enjoyed a comfortable life in the Gray Family for years. Secondly, you need to understand that it was you who lost me back then. I don't owe her anything, and I certainly don't owe any of you either. So, what exactly do I need to compensate for?" When Salma was about to speak, Simone added, "As for the young lady of the Gray Family, she can have it. I don't really care about it."

Salma was stunned for a moment, not expecting Simone to say such things. "What do you mean?"

Simone replied with indifference, "I mean it literally. I am cutting off all ties with you and leaving the family. In the future, we will go back to being strangers when we meet." She added, "Your beloved adopted daughter will remain the little princess of the Grays. You don't need to worry that I will steal anything from her or try to take your love for her. I am simply making things easier for all of you."

Chapter 2 Who Needs Such A Brother

Simone couldn't care less about her biased parents and brothers, treating them as if they had no blood relation to her.

When she was young, Aaron lost her, and human traffickers intended to sell her. Thanks to her master saving and adopting her, her life wasn't as miserable as it could have been.

Her words successfully changed the expressions of the Grays. They never expected her to decide to cut ties and leave them.

Jodie, leaning against Salma, glanced at Simone with a subtle expression. She looked at her while her face showed an apologetic and guilty expression. "No. The one who should leave is me. I'm sorry; I didn't mean to snatch your opportunity. I just liked that variety show, so Titus went to talk to you. I don't want to participate in that variety show anymore. You don't need to be unhappy. I don't want to anger and worry you."

On the surface, she appeared guilty, but in reality, it was a strategic retreat. This way, she could distance herself from accusations of intentionally competing with Simone for resources while also showcasing her considerate and generous nature. She was playing her act in front of the Grays, subtly implying that Simone was using the threat of cutting ties and leaving the Gray Family.

As expected, the family members' expressions turned unpleasant.

Simone looked at Jodie and retorted without reservation, "Don't try to act innocent and pitiful in front of me with that look. I won't fall for that." She spoke her mind without holding back after completely giving up on family affection. "You say you want to leave and have been saying it for a year, but you’re still here. I've long been tired of your act of strategic retreat. Only fools would believe it." She intentionally exposed the truth. "Of course, you wouldn't actively ask me for resources. As long as you say it, they will naturally present you with whatever you want. You don't need to put on a show for them. I don't care about your thoughts since I've already stopped caring about what you guys think."

These words successfully darkened the faces of the Grays.

Jodie's expression changed slightly. She suppressed the anger in her heart and hugged Salma with a touch of grievance. "I'm not. Don't say such things about our family."

In her heart, she wondered if Simone had gone crazy by choosing to confront her head-on and speaking so harshly. Although being rebuked by Simone left her feeling quite displeased, the fact that Simone had created such a scene today would only make everybody dislike her even more. So, she endured her sarcasm.

As expected, Salma was infuriated. "What are you saying? Where are your manners?"

Simone shrugged. "I was born to my parents but not raised by them. My manners have long vanished."

The family was speechless. Salma looked at Simone with disappointment. "Are you still blaming us? It seems we made a mistake bringing you home. We've compensated you a lot this year. What more do you want? Why do you have to compete with Jo? Can't you just peacefully be sisters?" She emphasized. "Although you are our biological daughter, Jo has been by our side all these years in your place. In our hearts, she's an important part of the Gray Family; she's my daughter."

Simone used to find these words piercing and heart-wrenching, but she truly didn't care anymore. "What did I compete for? Since I returned to the family, you two have been clinging to me. Everything I do is interpreted as vying for favor and wanting things that don't belong to me."

She took the bank card from her bag and threw it onto the table in front of them. "This is the compensation you gave me, and I haven't used a single penny from it." There were 150 thousand on this card, barely the amount of Jodie's monthly allowance, but that was the compensation for Simone over the years. "I won't take away the things the housekeeper bought for me, but for the things I've used, I will pay you in cash."

Then, she placed the written paper on the table. "In the year plus that I've been here, I've spent less than 15 thousand, including living expenses. Here's the list. I just transferred 15 thousand to this card. From now on, we settle our accounts."

What could be solved with money was not a problem. So, on her side, she and the Grays were even, but what they owed her would be forever outstanding.

Simone's actions made the Grays feel as if she were serious, rendering them somewhat embarrassed. Salma couldn't accept that her daughter, who had been obedient all those while, would do such a rebellious and disobedient thing.

She slammed the table with her hand, her face full of anger. "Fine. Go ahead. But once you step out of our gate today, don't think about coming back."

She believed Simone wouldn't act on it. Just as Jodie said, this was a tactic of strategic retreat by threatening them with leaving. If Simone succeeded this time, who knew how she would stir things up in the future?

Salma let Simone leave, not because she wanted her to but to warn her not to cause trouble again. The others didn't speak, unanimously sharing the same thoughts.

Of course, Simone knew what they were thinking. I look like I'm bluffing, don't I? "I'm leaving for good." After saying that, she grabbed her suitcase while showing no attachment and turned to leave.

Seeing this, Steven Gray, her father, spoke, "Stop making a fuss. Jo won't want that variety show opportunity anymore. In the future, I'll have Titus fight for some good gigs for you."

Regardless of the circumstances, she was still his biological daughter, and he couldn't let her leave just like that. Moreover, leaving home after just over a year since returning would make their family a joke in the eyes of others.

Simone turned around and looked at her father indifferently. "You think I'd stay for your so-called gigs?"

He frowned. "I didn't mean that. All I'm saying is that you are now part of the family, so we will naturally compensate you."

She found it ridiculous. "Thank you for your compensation. For the past year, I have deeply experienced your emotional abuse, complaints, and disdain. So, I'll pass on that."

Steven was taken aback as he looked at Simone, who seemed unyielding and unapproachable. "What do you want, then?" He was usually busy and had neglected his biological daughter for more than a year.

She affirmed, "I want to sever ties with you. It's as simple as that. There's no need to contact each other in the future. Goodbye."

He was infuriated by Simone's attitude, while the Gray brothers also appeared displeasing. Especially Aaron, who regarded her with a complex and indignant expression. "Are you still blaming me? Are you trying to make us compromise and compete for Jo's favor?"

Simone stared at him icily. "Are you suggesting that I shouldn't hold you accountable? Back then, you lost track of me and allowed human traffickers to abduct me. I was almost sold off to the mountains. Should I express gratitude for losing me back then?"

Aaron's face flushed and then paled. "I didn't mean to do that, and I wasn't even aware that you were almost sold off to the mountains."

She raised an eyebrow. " Does saying that erase the fact that you lost me and changed the course of my life?"

Upon her return to the Gray Family, he exhibited more kindness and concern compared to her four brothers and her parents, but it all seemed like an attempt to make up for his past mistakes.

However, whenever she had conflicts with Jodie, he always sided with the latter. Therefore, I don't need a brother who doesn't truly love me.

Chapter 3 She's Had Enough

Simone's words left Aaron unsure of what to say for a moment. While he had not intended to lose her back then, he indeed caused his younger sister to be lost for many years and deprived her of the life of a wealthy young lady.

She continued, "I'll repeat. I no longer care about you guys, so I have zero interest in vying for favor with Jodie."

Titus scowled. "Think it over. If you sever ties with us, don't expect any resources from the company."

The eldest brother, Reuben Gray, added, "We might even boycott you."

They hoped that by saying this, Simone would reconsider for the sake of her future. They wanted her to know her limits and back down.

However, she suddenly burst into laughter. "You speak as if you've given me a lot of resources this past year. Since I joined Gray Entertainment, the resources I received are not even close to what I used to get from that small company that often exploited me. Not only are the resources few and poor, but I've also been attacked online, where you didn't bother calling the PR. You even want to snatch away the resources I managed to secure for myself for Jodie. You truly have the nerve to use this to threaten me."

At the sight of their darkened faces, she continued, "Fortunately, when I joined the company, I didn't sign any contracts, so I won't need to terminate any."

At the time, Reuben and Titus had assured her they were all one family, so there was no need to bother signing contracts because they would not make her suffer any losses. Since she did not know what it would be like when she returned to the Gray Family, she agreed, thinking it would be wise to keep some leverage. As expected, she had not made a mistake in keeping her options open.

Otherwise, if she wanted to terminate the contract, she would have to pay a substantial penalty. If she could not afford it, she was sure they would go as far as blacklisting her if she did not cooperate.

"From today onwards, I won't serve you anymore. Do whatever you want. You didn't publicly announce my identity, so I won't have to announce it to the public either. Goodbye forever!" She turned away once again, this time briskly leaving with her suitcase. Once outside, she pressed the pause button on the recording on her phone.

Upon seeing Simone's resolute departure, the Grays felt dissatisfied besides anger. Then, Salma furiously said, "She actually left. It's outrageous."

Titus said with a scowling face, "Since she's so stubborn, I'll have her know that once she leaves us, she'll be and have nothing." He felt that Simone's sudden rebellion was aimed at him as he asked her to give up her spot for Jodie, angering her. Subsequently, he turned to Reuben and said, "Ben, get in touch with other entertainment companies. Tell them not to sign Simone."

Reuben nodded. "All right."

Faced with a once obedient sister who suddenly rebelled, he thought of giving her a taste of reality and making her understand that being willful had consequences. After seeing Reuben's agreement, Titus squinted his eyes. "No matter how independent she is, she won't go far. Soon, she'll be begging to come back."

He would also inform the agents in the industry not to sign Simone.

Hearing the words of her two brothers, Jodie felt a sense of joy in her heart. However, she said with a self-blaming expression, "It's all my fault for making Simone angry and leaving. Reuben, Titus, please don't do this. When she calms down, I'll apologize to her, and she'll come back." The more she said this, the more the family felt that Simone was being willful and became more resentful.

Sure enough, Reuben said, "This has nothing to do with you. She just doesn't know how to be content."

The other four boys in the Gray Family agreed. "Exactly. She's already obtained the status of the young lady of the Gray Family, yet she always wants to compete with you. It's unreasonable."

"You don't need to apologize to her. That would spoil her."

"If we don't show her some toughness, she'll continue causing trouble at home."

Compared to Jodie, Simone was willful. Salma thought for a moment, patted Jodie on the shoulder, and said, "We know you're kind-hearted, so you don't need to worry about this matter. Your brothers know what to do. She'll behave when she comes back."

Hearing the words of the others, Steven also felt that it made sense. If Simone could not handle the outside world, she would naturally come back and seek reconciliation. Therefore, he did not object to it.

Jodie then nodded helplessly. "All right."

Meanwhile, Simone returned to the apartment she had rented after coming to Cebros. Even after returning to the Gray Family, she did not cancel the lease. Whenever she had conflicts with them or felt unhappy staying there, she would come and live there for a few days.

After cleaning up her apartment, her phone rang. She was momentarily taken aback as a hint of mockery flashed in her eyes. It was someone she had always been unwilling to think about—her childhood sweetheart and boyfriend, Leon Foster.

When she was adopted by her master, she lived next door to Leon's grandfather, and the two old gentlemen had a good relationship. Back then, when she was abused by human traffickers and dared not step out of the yard, it was Leon who held her hand and walked her out, resembling a ray of sunshine that shone into her heart.

She emerged from the shadow of human traffickers and started clinging to him, someone five years older than her. When he was in high school, he was brought back to Cebros by his family. To catch up with him, she worked hard to skip grades and entered a university in Cebros. After he entered the entertainment industry for two years, she graduated from college and joined the industry as well.

Upon her return to the Grays, she took the initiative to confess to Leon, who did not reject. She always thought that he treated her differently. However, in her previous life, he made her feel the pain of betrayal.

In this second chance at life, she did not want to have any entanglements with him anymore. As such, she answered the phone coldly, "What's the matter?"

Leon found her attitude today a bit cold, but he did not take it to heart. "Are you not going on that variety show?"

Simone retorted. "Who said that?" She knew he also hoped she would give up the spot for Jodie, which was why he called to probe her.

He replied, "I heard from Titus that you're going to give up the spot."

"There's no such thing. I won't give up the spot for anyone."

He couldn't help but furrow his brow. "Won't you listen to Titus?"

She sneered. "Why should I?"

Leon and Titus were classmates in high school and had maintained a good relationship, staying in touch. That's why Leon came to persuade her to give up her previous life. Initially, she didn't suspect Jodie because she believed Leon genuinely cared for her.

His frown deepened. "Titus is your agent, so he must have your best interests at heart. Don't be stubborn."

She coldly snorted. "What am I being stubborn about? Am I being stubborn and unreasonable just because I won't give Jodie what she wants?" She sarcastically added, "If I give in, the Gray Family will think I'm sensible, and you'll happily be with your lover."

She had reached her limit. In her previous life, she eventually gave up her position due to pressure from the Gray Family and Leon's persuasion.

With the Gray Family's marketing, Leon's care, and assistance on the variety show, Jodie successfully portrayed herself as a kind-hearted lady and quickly gained popularity. The so-called good opportunities provided by Titus turned out to be a minor role in a drama with few scenes. Ultimately, the drama was never released due to controversy with the male lead.

What surprised her even more was that Leon had received an invitation to the same variety show, but he had never told her. She only found out when the show premiered, and he was one of the mysterious guests.

Observing Leon subtly taking care of Jodie, she realized that these two knew each other and that his feelings for Jodie were unusual. However, after watching only the first episode of the variety show, she had to leave for the filming of a drama.

When she finished shooting, six months had already passed. At that time, she was a bit perplexed and unsure whether she should continue interacting with the Grays and Leon. Through a stroke of luck and a fortunate opportunity, she managed to secure the leading role in a niche film. As a result, she headed to a remote and mountainous area to shoot the film.

"Anastasia, help!‘’
The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you. What do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice was getting close to her ear.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

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"Anastasia, help!‘’
The desperate and helpless sound of her best friend's voice was the only thing on Anastasia Tillman's mind as she rushed over to the clubhouse.

Room 808. Anastasia looked up at the number plaque on the door of the private room. It was the same room number that her best friend, Hayley Seymour, had texted her. Without another thought, she barged through the door to save her friend.

When the door swung open under her hand, she was greeted by the darkness within. Suddenly, a strong hand clasped around her wrist and dragged her into the dark room, followed by a loud thud as the door slammed shut.

"Hey—who are you. What do you want?!" Anastasia shrieked, her eyes darting around wildly as she tried to make out her surroundings.

"Settle down, and I'll treat you well." A man's deep and husky voice was getting close to her ear.

An hour later, Anastasia staggered out of the room, looking disheveled. She had only just been through a nightmare, but that didn't distract her from worrying about her best friend's safety.

She was just about to call Hayley's number when she saw a group of men and women walking out the side door. Under the lights, she instantly recognized two of the women in the group.

One happened to be Hayley, her best friend who had cried for help on the phone earlier, and the other was Anastasia's stepsister, Erica Tillman. The two girls walked side by side with their arms linked, as if they were the closest of friends.

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Chapter 1 Would You Dare To Have a Shotgun Wedding?

The early summer in Cletford brought scorching heat, even as early as 8.00AM.

Kayla Hunt boarded a bus to the stop near Cletford Hotel, then took out her phone and called her mother, Jocelyn Sexton. "Mom, I've just arrived. I'm about to head in. Can you remind me what my blind date partner looks like?"

Jocelyn replied over the phone, "Didn't you bring a photo of him?"

"I forgot."

"You're always so forgetful. Even if I describe him, I doubt you can picture it. Anyway, when you get to the hotel, go to the cafe on the first floor. He works at a nearby construction site. If you see someone in laborer's clothing with a safety helmet, that's him."

Kayla adjusted her glasses and said, "Okay."

"Kayla, remember, you can't be too picky. You're already 27. If you don't get married soon, you'll be labeled a spinster. Don't just stay in your orchard all the time and avoid people."

"I know, Mom. I… Ouch!" Kayla was abruptly interrupted as someone bumped into her, causing her to stumble and cutting off her conversation with Jocelyn.

"Miss, are you okay? I'm sorry, I was in a rush and didn't see you there." The person who bumped into her was a woman in her sixties. She helped Kayla to her feet and kept apologizing.

Though Kayla was fine, her glasses had fallen to the ground, shattering the lenses. She was severely nearsighted, rendering her surroundings blurry without her glasses. Truthfully, she would not even recognize her mother if she passed by.

"I'm fine," she assured the woman, not wanting to get entangled. After persistently insisting she was fine, the woman eventually walked away. Then, Kayla picked up her broken glasses and realized they were beyond repair, so she stashed them in her pocket.

Noticing Jocelyn had yet to hang up the phone, Kayla briefly explained the situation and ended the call before hastily entering the Cletford Hotel. With her vision blurred and no glasses, she had to get very close to see while navigating the crowded hotel.

At that moment, the hotel's cafe was bustling with activity. As she entered, she scanned the area and spotted a man seated in the corner, donning construction worker attire and a safety helmet.

When Kayla saw the man, he had just removed his safety helmet. Hence, she concluded it was him and approached him with that in mind. At the same time, Mason Cooke observed a stranger approaching him and politely inquiring, "Excuse me, are you Mason Cooke?"

He pondered the stranger's identity, harboring uncertainties, yet he acknowledged with a nod.

"Hello, I'm Kayla Hunt, your blind date for today." After receiving his acknowledgment, Kayla sat across from him and introduced herself. Her vision was currently impaired, so she could only vaguely make out his appearance while sitting face-to-face. To her, it would be fine as long as he did not have any missing features.

Suddenly, Mason raised an eyebrow, his gaze turning sharp and cold. He scrutinized her intensely but noted her composure and clear eyes. Recognizing her as different from women who approached him with ulterior motives, he softened his icy demeanor.

"Mr. Cooke, did the matchmaker tell you anything about me? I'm 27, had one failed relationship, and have been single for about eight years. I run my own business, managing several orchards, where I cultivate strawberries, blueberries, peaches, figs, grapes, oranges, and watermelons." Kayla continued, "I'm usually swamped with work and have no time for dating. I thought, why not wrap this up quickly? If this blind date goes well, we can tie the knot and put an end to my parents' constant marriage nagging. Oh, by the way, I have two siblings. My elder sister is already married, and my younger brother has also started his own family."

The unrelenting pressure from her parents, especially because she was the sole unmarried member of her family, pushed her to consider a swift decision. Even at that point, she was still thinking about buying a truckload of fertilizer later and did not want to waste too much time on this blind date. Therefore, she rapidly communicated her intentions as soon as she sat down.

All this while, Mason watched her with keen interest. She did not exude the dazzling elegance of the elite women he had met before. Instead, she had a timeless beauty that grew on him as he looked at her. Her straightforward and candid way of speaking, with no hidden agendas, planted a favorable first impression of her.

Since she had introduced herself, it was his turn to share.

"Hello, Miss Hunt. I come from a large family, with me being the eldest at 31 and still single. However, I'm taking care of two children who belong to a late friend of mine. He passed away unexpectedly, and his wife went missing, leaving two children with no one to care for. So, I adopted and looked after them as my own."

"How old are they?" Kayla realized that Mason's information differed from what the matchmaker had told her. He was older than expected and had two children. Although not his biological kids, marrying him would make her a stepmother. She realized that matchmakers certainly have a knack for stretching the truth.

"They're four years old and will start kindergarten in September. Twins."

When she heard that the children were of kindergarten age, she breathed a sigh of relief. She knew as long as they were in school, the adult's life would become more manageable. "Do you have photos of them? I'd love to see them."

Kayla believed that Mason's willingness to adopt his late friend's children without worrying about how it might impact his marriage prospects indicated an honest and compassionate nature. A bachelor who could care for two children most likely possessed patience and understanding. That was the kind of man she sought.

Her mind was already made up, and she was eager to meet the two children.

He took out his phone and opened his photo album to show her pictures of the children. The twins were adorable, resembling little angels in a painting. Despite her compromised eyesight, she managed to see the children's features. Instantly, she thought she’d love them.

After looking at the photos of the children, Kayla handed the phone back to Mason and asked directly, "Mr. Cooke, I have a favorable impression of you. If you share the same sentiment, would you dare to have a shotgun wedding with me? If you do, we can complete the formalities right now." Marriage is just a formality; I'll go through with it to finally end my parents' persistent nagging.

A shotgun wedding required courage, which she had in abundance. As a single woman, she dared to take out a one-million loan and borrow from relatives and friends to secure several orchards, all while pursuing her passion. Her courage was remarkable, surpassing that of many men. In that sense, she was unafraid of a shotgun wedding. All she wanted was to avoid her parents' constant pressure to marry and be able to dedicate herself to her career.

As for her prospective husband, it would suffice as long as he was honest and straightforward. Mr. Cooke works on construction sites, and the matchmaker mentioned he's known for his honesty. Given his job, he won't be home often, meaning I won't have to worry too much about tending to my husband. That's quite convenient, isn't it?

Chapter 2 Registration

Mason was surprised but responded with a friendly smile. "Miss Hunt. If you have the courage for a shotgun wedding, why should I hesitate? I have a good impression of you, but you should consider it carefully. I come with a pair of tag-alongs."

"The two kids are adorable, and I took a liking to them immediately. I have no problem becoming their stepmother." After all, those children aren't biologically his.

"Do you have all the required documents with you?" he asked.

At once, she took out her birth certificate and ID card and placed them on the table. She admitted a bit sheepishly. "I hope you won't laugh at me, Mr. Cooke. I always bring all my documents to blind dates, thinking that if things go well, I can tie the knot quickly and skip the hassle." After numerous unsuccessful blind dates, she had not found a suitable match, and others had been critical of her, too. Consequently, she had been in the blind date circuit for a while.

"I can see that you're a decisive person, Miss Hunt. Well, coincidentally, I'm the same way. Please wait a moment; I'll have someone bring my birth certificate."

"Sure."

As Mason rose to his feet and walked away, he discreetly called his younger brother, Eddie Cooke, and gave him specific instructions in a hushed manner. "Eddie, bring me my birth certificate immediately. Meet me at the cafe on the first floor of the Cletford Hotel."

Eddie, filled with curiosity, could not help but ask, "What do you need your birth certificate for?"

"It's none of your business. Just bring it as quickly as possible; it's urgent."

Mason, as the head of the Cooke Family, had always commanded respect from his younger siblings, and no one dared to obey his orders. Although Eddie was curious, he dared not pry further. After agreeing to the request, he was promptly hung up on by his older brother.

After the call, Mason returned to Kayla and said, "I've arranged for someone to bring my birth certificate. It should be here in about twenty minutes."

The wait was not long, and she could afford it.

While waiting, he ordered a cup of coffee for her. Despite her unassuming appearance, her demeanor and mannerisms while sipping her coffee exuded an air of elegance. With a little bit of grooming, she would shine like a polished gem, radiating captivating charm.

In the meantime, the two exchanged some information about themselves. Kayla learned that the Cooke Family was a large family with good family values, where his brothers and relatives all got along well. Mason was the eldest in his generation and had more than a dozen cousins below him.

When she heard that, she almost choked on her coffee. Once again, she cursed silently, The matchmaker's lies can get someone into trouble.

The matchmaker had claimed that Mason was the sole heir of the family and that despite his work as a construction laborer, his family was well-off. According to the matchmaker, once she married into the family, she would be the one in charge, and there would be no need to worry about dealing with complex relationships with her sisters-in-law. However, the reality was far from those claims. He had a younger brother and a long line of cousins numbering more than ten.

"Is the construction site where you work nearby?"

His dark eyes flickered as he responded, "I did visit the construction site today, and it's not far from here."

The Cooke Group was involved in real estate, and the nearby construction sites were their investments. Mason had come over today to inspect them without drawing any attention. Only by disguising himself as a worker could he get a true sense of the situation. Little did he expect to encounter such a fearless and intriguing potential wife in the process.

He could not help but muse, I hope she won't seek a divorce when she discovers my true identity. Divorce is strictly taboo in the Cooke Family; we take marriage very seriously.

"Since we're going to the city hall to complete the paperwork, don't you need to ask for some time off from your supervisor?" Kayla asked.

"I do." Mason took out his phone. "I'll request three days off right now."

"I think half a day should suffice." She knew obtaining a marriage certificate would not take long.

"We'll be officially married once we sign the certificate. It's only right that we spend a few days getting to know each other."

Kayla was rendered speechless in response.

After making the call to request time off, it did not take long for Eddie to arrive with the birth certificate. Without allowing him to catch a glimpse of Kayla, Mason quickly received the document and sent him on his way.

Eddie could not help but feel that Mason was acting unusually today. Unfortunately, his brother did not offer any explanations, leaving him in suspense.

Since Kayla's glasses were broken, she initially considered getting a new pair first. However, realizing it would take time, she decided to proceed with the marriage registration. Once she had the marriage certificate, she could then purchase new glasses and fertilizer before heading home.

An hour later, the two emerged from the city hall with a freshly issued marriage certificate.

Kayla felt like she had just accomplished a significant milestone in her life, no longer worrying about her parents pressuring her to get married, and could now focus on her career in peace. Her mood was exceptionally bright. At the city hall's entrance, she extended her hand to Mason and said, "I'm looking forward to our future together, Mr. Cooke."

With a smile in his dark eyes, he replied, "Me too. By the way, where do you live? Let me send you back."

"It's fine. I have some errands to run. You can go ahead." She politely declined her newlywed husband's offer and added, "Let's exchange phone numbers. It'll make it easier to stay in touch. I'll send you my location once I get home."

"Sounds good."

The reason why Kayla did not let Mason send her home was because she felt that since they took a bus to the city hall, she would still need to take the bus back whether he accompanied her or not, so why bother burdening him with the back-and-forth journey? Moreover, she still had her matters to attend to.

After exchanging phone numbers, she waved goodbye to her newlywed husband, boarded a bus, and left.

Meanwhile, Mason stood there, watching her board the bus and depart. After a while, he muttered, "It feels like she's afraid I'll cling to her." He then took out his phone and called his bodyguard, instructing him to pick him up from the city hall. He needed to return to the office to tackle a pile of paperwork.

Unaware of all this, Kayla went to an optometrist to replace her glasses. While choosing the lenses, she received a call from her mother.

"Where are you now, Kayla? You told me you arrived at the Cletford Hotel two hours ago. Why haven't you met Mr. Cook yet? He's been waiting for you for an hour and a half." Jocelyn's voice was loud, almost like a shout. She could not help but feel that her daughter would be the cause of her early demise.

Kayla quickly moved her phone away from her ear to protect her eardrums from her mother's roar.

After Jocelyn had finished venting her frustration, Kayla put the phone back to her ear and said calmly, "Mom, who told you that Mr. Cooke had been waiting for me for an hour and a half? We just parted ways twenty minutes ago."

"Mr. Cook called the matchmaker, who called me to ask why you hadn't arrived yet. He also said that he couldn't reach you on your phone. Who were you chatting with on the phone just now? You've been on the phone for over an hour!"

Chapter 3 Making the Best of a Mistake

Kayla was taken aback by Jocelyn's words. "What are you talking about, Mom? My phone's been working perfectly, and no one's called me. How can it be unreachable? Besides, he didn't even need to call me. I've already met him in person."

"Kayla, do you think you can just make up stories and lies to deceive me when you're outside? Mr. Cook has been waiting for you for almost half a day and hasn't met you. Who did you meet?"

Listening to Jocelyn's angry interrogation, Kayla was momentarily stunned before cautiously asking, "Mom, are you sure? Is my blind date still waiting for me at the Cletford Hotel?"

"Yes!" Jocelyn replied, on the verge of losing her patience. She knew her daughter's heart and mind were occupied with thoughts of her orchards.

Despite countless arranged blind dates, there had been no success. Today, Kayla had rebelliously stood up her date, infuriating the matchmaker who had threatened not to arrange any more introductions. In the end, Jocelyn had to resort to sweet-talking to calm the matchmaker down over the phone.

"But I did meet Mason Cooke, Mom. It's true. I have a very favorable impression of him, so we decided to go for it. We just registered our marriage half an hour ago. Mom, your youngest daughter is finally married. There's no need to push me to get married anymore."

After hearing that, Jocelyn was at a loss for words.

"Moreover, the matchmaker is quite the storyteller. She claimed Mason is an only child, but he has a younger brother. She said he's 28, but he's 31. And he adopted his late friend's children, two adorable four-year-olds." Kayla continued, "Even though the matchmaker tends to exaggerate, I think one thing she said is true. Mason is honest and kind-hearted. He's single but adopted his late friend's children as his own, raising them to the age of four."

Jocelyn was speechless as her thoughts raced. My daughter had a shotgun wedding? It's with Mayson Cook, no doubt, but the details don't match. What's going on? Her brain was in a frenzy, struggling to comprehend the situation.

After a while, she regained her composure and asked, "Kay, did you really register? Take a photo of the marriage certificate and send it to me. Also, where are you right now?"

"I'm at the optometrist getting new glasses. They were broken at the entrance of the Cletford Hotel, so I needed to get a new pair."

"You weren't wearing glasses on your blind date?"

"They broke."

Suddenly, Jocelyn urgently insisted, "Send me a photo of him and the marriage certificate right now!" Given Kayla's severe nearsightedness, she can't even recognize me when I walk by without her glasses. I'm worried she might've met the wrong date and married the wrong person.

Kayla, hearing the urgency in her mother's words and recalling what the matchmaker and her date had said, finally realized that something was amiss. She hurriedly reached into her bag and took out the marriage certificate. As she leaned in to look closely, the name of the groom was indeed Mason Cooke. She used her phone's camera to capture the marriage certificate, then sent it with a picture of her and Mason in front of the city hall via WhatsApp.

In less than a minute, Jocelyn called again. "Why didn't you ask and verify, Kayla? That's not Mayson Cook. That's Mason Cooke, with the same pronunciation but a different spelling. I told you to bring a photo of him, but you didn't take it seriously and forgot. Now look, you've met the wrong person! This man isn't your blind date!"

Kayla was rendered speechless and thought, Seriously? Did I meet the wrong person? But he really is Mason Cooke. Oh, Mom said that my actual blind date's name has the same pronunciation but a different spelling. Her thoughts were instantly thrown into disarray. What should I do now? We've already registered.

After panicking for a few minutes, she calmed down and said to Jocelyn, "Mom, it doesn't matter who I marry. Although this Mason is a bit older, we hit it off during our blind date, and I genuinely like him as a person."

Jocelyn was left dumbfounded. As she looked at the photo Kayla had sent, her new son-in-law seemed more appealing than the initially intended date, Mayson. The newlywed couple looked remarkably well-suited without any hint of incongruity. However, Mason's gaze was sharp and profound, giving the impression that he was not to be underestimated. Then, she asked, "Do you know what he does for a living?"

"He works on a construction site. Didn't you see that he was wearing worker's clothing?" Kayla replied.

Jocelyn scrutinized the photo, which indeed showed him in labor attire. Still, she could not shake her doubts about whether her new son-in-law was a construction worker. "Is he with you now?" she asked.

"No, we parted ways right after leaving the city hall. I need to get new glasses, and I'll be buying fertilizer later. I didn't want to drag him along."

Jocelyn did not know how to respond for a moment. "Girl, you're out of your mind. You didn't even bother to clarify things before marrying him. Did you find out about his family background? What if he's involved with the underworld? You might regret it. Plus, he has two children in tow. You'll end up as a stepmother."

Kayla responded coldly, "Mom, you always say that if I could get myself married off, even our dog would roll on the ground laughing. You and Dad kept urging me all the time, and it had been driving me crazy. It was as if I were a 37-year-old spinster." She continued, "I finally found someone I felt connected with, so I decided to settle it quickly. It's better than enduring your nagging and disapproving glances. It felt as if not getting married at 27 was a disgrace to our ancestors. Don't worry. Your new son-in-law is definitely not involved with the underworld. He's an honest and kind-hearted man who works on a construction site. Also, what's wrong with being a stepmother? It makes things easier. I don't have to give birth to become a mother. Mom, I'm busy now. You should go make yourself a cup of tea to calm down." After delivering her piece, she hung up the phone, avoiding another round of criticism from her mother.

She could not help but ponder. They were the ones who constantly encouraged me to get married, and now that I've gone ahead and done it, they're chastising me for being impulsive and marrying someone I barely know. After all, isn't the entire purpose of these blind dates to find a husband? We genuinely connected at first sight, so why not embrace marriage right away? It's much more straightforward. Regardless, my life's significant event has been settled, and I can finally devote myself to peacefully managing my orchard.

It was summer, the season of abundant strawberries and peaches. Kayla needed to buy fertilizer, join the workers in harvesting the fruits, and arrange for a fruit merchant to collect the harvest from her orchard.

On the other hand, in the president's office on the top floor of the Cooke Group's building, Mason had changed out of his worker's clothes and into a sharp black suit. The Cooke Group's towering 68-story office building stood in the bustling heart of Cletford. While it was not the tallest, it was a place where countless elites sought to enter.

As he sat in his black swivel chair, he thought about his newlywed wife. Then, he reached for his phone and dialed his chief assistant, Edward Fisher. When Edward answered the call, Mason's tone turned serious. "Edward, investigate someone for me."

Chapter 4 I Won't Divorce You

"Who?"

"A girl named Kayla Hunt. I want all her information."

The two of them had only briefly gotten to know each other, and in reality, they were still no different than strangers. Mason was used to being in control of everything, and his newlywed wife was essentially a stranger to him. Naturally, he wanted to investigate thoroughly.

That piqued Edward's interest. "Are pigs flying outside, boss? You're finally interested in women. Well, now I can rest easy. You have no idea how worried I was that you might be gay."

"If I were, do you think you could stay single?"

Edward chuckled. "Given our relationship, I wouldn't be able to escape if you were. I'd have to decide whether to let you have your way with me or resist."

At his words, Mason was speechless. "You have half a day." He did not want to talk more with Edward and gave him a deadline to investigate Kayla's background.

"Boss, you should at least give me a photo to see what she looks like. Who knows how many girls are out there with the name Kayla Hunt? I can't possibly investigate them all."

Mason went silent briefly and then looked through his photo album on his phone. When he found his photo with Kayla in front of the city hall, he pixelated his face before sending it to Edward.

Upon receiving Kayla's photo, Edward whistled through the phone and commented, "You've got good taste, boss. She looks quite attractive. At first glance, she might not seem outstanding, but the more you look, the more intriguing she becomes. She's the type who grows on you. Her smile is very genuine, and she has clear and innocent eyes. You can tell she's a simple person, not heavily influenced by the complexities of society. Where did you meet her? Are there still innocent girls like her there? I should go check it out. Maybe I can meet a nice girl like her."

He was speaking his mind. In their social circle, everyone had their agenda and wore masks, so it was rare to come across such an innocent girl.

"She likes my two children," Mason said calmly without elaborating further.

"Are you looking for a nanny for Rowan and River?"

The fact that Mason had adopted the children of his good friend, Owen Bell, was an open secret in the upper-class society of Cletford. People who knew about it often praised him for his loyalty and sense of responsibility toward Owen. On the other hand, the Bell Family had garnered criticism from many for turning their backs on their grandchildren.

Mason adopted the two children without getting married and treated them as his own. In reality, the biological mother of these two children grew up with him at a young age. In others' eyes, they were childhood sweethearts, so others believed he adopted his late friend's children because he still had feelings for the biological mother. Inherently, that had made Mason's marriage prospects quite challenging. Wealthy and prestigious women were reluctant to marry him as they did not want to become stepmothers to the two children. Some even expected him to return the children to the Bell Family.

"Just investigate; don't ask so many questions. Get it done quickly." He did not want to explain further and hung up the phone.

"He leaves me hanging by only telling half the story. How can he do that? If he's not looking for a nanny for the two kids, is he looking for a mother for them?" Edward murmured to himself.

However, when he thought about Mason's reserved personality and the fact that he had avoided interacting with other women for so many years, even rejecting several blind dates, he felt that the chances of him finding a mother for the two children were almost nonexistent. He could not help but mutter, "Why is he being all mysterious?"

Despite his complaints about Mason's lack of transparency, he quickly arranged for someone to investigate her.

Kayla was just an ordinary girl, so the investigation was straightforward, and it only took him an hour to gather the necessary information. After reviewing the information, he noticed that despite her innocent appearance, she was audacious. She had taken out a one-million loan for her startup, ignoring her family's objections, and had borrowed money from friends and relatives.

Isn't she afraid of her business failing? She owes over a million in debt. Is she thinking of spending her whole life working to pay it off? She graduated in landscape architecture, so why did she return to her hometown to become an orchardist?

With Kayla's information in hand, he went up to the 68th floor and knocked on the door of the president's office.

At that moment, Mason had just received the location sent by Kayla. Following that, she also sent a message. 'This is my address. If you're coming over, just take a cab to the entrance of my orchard. The village roads are well-paved, and you can get here directly.'

'Okay,' he replied.

She then sent another message. 'There's something else I need to tell you.'

Mason, finding typing too slow, decided to call her directly. When she answered the phone, he asked in a warm and calm tone, "What is it?"

"When we met for our blind date, I wasn't wearing my glasses, but I'm severely nearsighted. Without glasses, I can't see people clearly. It's the kind where I wouldn't even recognize my mother if she walked past me."

Hearing that, he hummed in understanding. His fourth younger brother was also severely nearsighted and could not recognize anyone without his glasses. Therefore, he could understand her situation. So, what about it?

"I mistook you for someone else. You're not who I was supposed to meet. It's quite a coincidence that your name sounds the same as his, and that's why I got confused. I thought the matchmaker had tricked me, but it turned out to be my mistake."

He remained silent. Did she just realize she had mistaken me for someone else? But we've already registered. Is she thinking of divorcing? A shotgun wedding and a shotgun divorce in one day?

"If it's a mistake, so be it. We've already got our marriage certificate, and I'm not going to divorce you. It's not like I forced you into this. You agreed voluntarily."

Hearing that, Mason smiled and wanted to laugh, but he restrained himself and responded with his usual deep tone. Right, I agreed voluntarily. She didn't force me to sign anything.

"So, let's just go with the flow. When you pick up the children this afternoon, take a cab over. I know it's a bit of a hassle, but we should meet each other's parents. It'll prevent any awkward encounters in the future.

"I've been busy lately. It's the peak season for strawberries and peaches, and we're about to start a massive market push. After this batch of fruit is harvested, I'll find time to meet your parents. Is that okay with you? If it's not, I can spare some time tomorrow to meet them.

"By the way, I currently have debts of over a million, but don't worry. These are my pre-marital debts, and I won't let you pay a single penny. I'll write an agreement later, and when you come over tonight, we can sign it. My debts will have nothing to do with you."

Kayla was not the kind of person who would marry someone and then expect them to pay off her debts. These were her financial obligations, and she intended to repay them herself.

This year's fruit market was promising, with both purchase and retail prices higher than in previous years. She had meticulously managed her orchard, and every type of fruit had yielded a bountiful harvest. Once she harvested the oranges and subtracted the production costs by the winter season, she could pay off a portion of her debts. With favorable market conditions, she could clear her debts relatively quickly.

Chapter 5 Kayla Hunt is the President's Wife

"Let's discuss this matter when we meet in person. Talk to you tonight."

Kayla responded with a hum and said, "Let's leave it at that. I have things to attend to."

"All right."

She hung up the phone.

Mason continued to stare at his phone, and when Edward entered, he saw his boss deep in thought.

"What's the use of staring at the phone?" He teased him and placed Kayla's information in front of him, saying, "I've got it done in an hour for you. Remember to give me a bonus. With my efficiency and speed, many would want to poach me."

He wore a look of 'appreciate me while you have me' and successfully earned a disdainful look from his boss.

Mason picked up Kayla's information and said, "Is your salary not satisfying you?"

As his chief assistant, Edward held a prominent position in the Cooke Group, and his annual salary was the highest among his peers.

"I won't be in the office for the next two days. If there are urgent documents that need my attention, have them sent today."

"Are you going on a business trip?"

"Are you the boss, or am I your boss? I don't owe you an explanation of where I go."

Edward smirked and said, "Fine. I'll just pretend that I don't know you're seeing a woman."

"Should I cut your long tongue for you?"

"No, thanks."

Mason looked at him.

Edward said quickly, "I'll run off to handle things."

"There's no need to run. Just walk out. You might scare my secretary to death if you run."

Edward was speechless. After a while, he sat down. "Boss, we have a boss-subordinate relationship in public and are good friends in private. I care about you. Can't you tell me what's going on? You see… If you don't tell me, my curiosity will distract me from work as I will keep guessing."

"Kayla is the mother of my two children."

"Biological mother?"

Mason shot him another disdainful look, and Edward quickly corrected himself. "Are you really trying to find a mother for those kids? Their biological mother is still alive; you can use your resources to locate her. Why bother finding another mother for them?"

After Edward mentioned the biological mother of the two children, Mason's expression visibly darkened. "Don't mention her in front of me!"

After knowing what the children's biological mother had done, Edward apologized. "I'm sorry. I'll try not to bring her up in the future. Has Rowan and River asked you for a mother? When they go to kindergarten and see other kids with both parents, while they only have a father, it's natural for them to wonder. Wait. Are you saying that Kayla is your wife?" Only if Kayla is Mr. Cooke's wife can she be the mother of his two children.

Mason looked at Edward as if he were looking at a fool.

Edward was speechless, finding it hard to believe. In the next moment, he snatched the documents from Mason, took out his phone, and captured a photo of Kayla from the file. He said, "This is her candid photo. It's much clearer than the photos you sent me. I need to memorize her face well. After all, she's your wife."

Mason let him be.

Kayla's candid lifestyle photos gave him a carefree feeling when he looked at them, except for the fact that the glasses she wore were slightly oversized.

"On this matter, keep it confidential for me. I don't plan to announce it publicly in the short term." They had rushed into marriage and did not know much about each other. They needed time to get familiar with each other before making their relationship public. "Also, arrange a spot for me at the construction site near the Cletford Hotel. Just put a name on it."

He had to do the whole act. Even if Kayla did not care, the Hunt Family would check and ask questions. Since she believed he was working on the construction site, he would just need a spot with his name there so the Hunt Family could investigate her laborer husband.

"Sure."

Edward's curiosity was satisfied, and he stopped chattering. Whatever Mason instructed, he would arrange it.

…

Oxview Village was the place where Kayla lived, named after a mountain in the village that looked like an ox when viewed from afar. While Mason faced Edward's gossip, Kayla faced her formidable mother.

"I told you to bring a photo, but you didn't listen. I told you to bring an extra pair of glasses, and you didn't listen either. Now, look. You've got the wrong person and went for the wrong blind date. You're even audacious enough to get married directly. You've… You've truly infuriated me!" Jocelyn stood under a tall peach tree with her hands on her hips while scolding her daughter, who was up on it.

She also feared being heard by others and losing her reputation, so even though she scolded, she had to suppress her volume. Though she looked angry, her voice was less than intimidating.

Then, Kayla threw a handful of peaches down. Jocelyn, with keen eyes and quick hands, agilely caught the fruits and continued scolding, "Don't throw them around. They'll fall and break. These peaches weigh at least a pound per bulk. They've just come to market and are already so expensive, costing more than twenty per pound."

The peach varieties Kayla planted included an early-ripening type, which hit the market first, fetching a high price. The late-ripening type was still available when others had run out, allowing her to maintain a higher price.

That was how businesses worked—supplying to meet the demand and always being one step ahead.

"Mom, try this one."

Jocelyn casually picked one and started eating it as she said, "It's one thing that you had a marriage out of a sudden, but you didn't even bring my son-in-law back for me to meet in person. I have more life experience than you, and my judgment is better. At least let me see if he's a conman."

"Mom, don't worry, you'll see him. He'll come in the afternoon after picking up his kids. You can still go back, prepare dinner, and maybe even buy snacks the kids like from the grocery store to treat your new grandchildren."

Jocelyn was speechless. She was pushing the marriage issue a bit too far because not only did her daughter find her a son-in-law, but she also brought along two unexpected grandchildren.

"I'll have your dad inquire in the town. If no one named Mason Cooke works at the construction site, you're probably scammed."

"I won't be."

Kayla believed that Mason was a good person and would not deceive her. Besides, she was not a stunning beauty with outstanding charm. With a debt of over a million hanging over her, what could he gain by deceiving her?

"You sure he'll come?" Jocelyn took out her phone to check the time. It was already afternoon.

"I'll head back and have your grandpa boil the chicken. I'll get some groceries in town, but we can skip the fruit; you can pick some from the orchard, anyway." Jocelyn might have scolded her daughter for rushing into marriage, but hearing that her son-in-law would be visiting in the evening, she immediately stopped complaining and hurried back home to prepare a sumptuous dinner to welcome the new members.

Kayla muttered, "When I was single, they wouldn't stop pestering me. Now, there seems to be no difference even if I'm married."

Fortunately, she had sent Jocelyn away. Otherwise, her head would be spinning, and she might fall off the tree from her mother's relentless nagging.

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