《Drowning Him In Regret》


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1 A Pathetic Joke


    Right after college, I kicked my penniless boyfriend to the curb and ran off to some fancy country with a silver-spoon prick. Worst call ever.


    Two years down the line, that rich bastard ghosted me, leaving me to slink back home, broke and humiliated. And who was sitting pretty now? My ex, of course- loaded, famous, the whole damn deal.


    Then he went full psycho, pulling every shady trick to make me his wife. Everyone bought the bullshit. "Oh, he''s so in love, letting bygones be bygones." What a crock.


    The second we said "I do," he started banging his way through a carousel of floozies, each one a jab to my ribs, his sick way of evening the score.


    He''d get in my face, eyes wild, spitting venom. "What''s your fucking deal? Why don''t you care? Not even a little jealous?"


    I''d just smirk, staring him down until he flinched. Because I was halfway to the grave, you bastard. Why waste tears on a world I was about to leave behind?


    ******


    Our third anniversary came crashing in, and where was Jude Carson-my dear husband? Lighting up the damn beach with fireworks, draped all over that snake, Vivian Miller.


    I was curled up on the couch, a pathetic mess, clutching my phone like it was my lifeline. I dialed him over and over, like some desperate fool who thought he''d actually pick up.


    Straight to voicemail. Every. Single. Time.


    That cold, robotic beep taunted me one too many times, and the world started spinning. My chest tightened, the room blurred, and then-lights out.


    I woke up to sterile hospital lights burning my eyes. The doctor hovered, his face


    screaming bad news he didn''t know how to sugarcoat.


    I didn''t flinch. Just asked, voice dead, "How much time''s left?"


    He switched to that bullshit doctor-speak. "Surgery now, followed by regr


    chemo, and you''ve got a fighting chance."


    I stared at the ceiling, nk. "This is my second go-round with this crap."


    Pain wed at my chest, sharp and relentless, while sweat prickled my forehead.


    "Ms. Watson," he pressed, "there''s a new drug that could keep the cancer in check. Fifty grand a shot."


    He trailed off, tossing out some faint hope about sticking with it post-surgery for six months.


    Yeah, right. He knew I was t broke.


    I was married to the big-shot CEO of Carson Group, and I couldn''t scrape


    together pocket change. If I had cash, I wouldn''t have let this disease chew me up this long.


    I hauled myself off the bed, smoothed my wrinkled clothes, and muttered, "Book the surgery."


    A few grand for the operation? I''d figure it out. Had to.


    My fingers grazed the pendant dangling at my chest, and a sour pang twisted my gut.


    Back at the apartment, I swung by to thank my neighbor.


    "Oh, sweetie, don''t thank me," she said, her eyes soft with that pity I hated. "Thank Toto. That dog was raising hell with his barking-saved your ass.


    "Lucky the ambnce hauled ass to get here. You kids gotta stop running yourselves into the ground."


    Toto''s my Lab, my stray-turned-soulmate.


    A year back, barely a month into this sham of a marriage, Jude had the balls to bring some chick into our bed.


    I walked in, and they didn''t even pause just kept at it, loud as fuck, like they were daring me to make a scene.


    When it was over, he smirked and hit me with, "Karma''s a bitch, huh? I begged you to stay, and you didn''t give a shit. This is what you get."


    We tore into each other, screaming until I couldn''t breathe. I bolted, heart in pieces, wandering nowhere-until Toto found me.


    He was dumped at a vet clinic, shaking, half-gone from distemper. The vet was bitching as he lugged him inside, but Toto''s eyes met mine, and fuck, it was like a knife to the chest.


    We were the same-broken, barely hanging on, too damn stubborn to quit but too tired to dream.


    Two lost causes.


    I hocked my gold ne to pay the vet to pull him through. They did.


    And now, he''d returned the favor.


    He nuzzled my leg, tail wagging like I was his whole universe. My throat closed up, and I couldn''t even touch him.


    "Hey, ma''am," I choked out, "I''m gonna beid up in the hospital for a while. Can you... look after Toto?"


    Her golden retriever passedst year, so I knew she''d step up. Sure enough, she waved me off, telling me to focus on getting myself together.


    As I watched Toto trot away with her, tail wagging like he didn''t have a care in the world, I let out a shaky breath. A knot loosened in my chest. If I didn''t make it through this, at least he got someone who would love him.


    But when I dragged myself home, reality pped me hard¡ªI''d been lying to myself all along. The surgery? Tens of thousands of bucks. I didn''t have a single dime to my name.


    Jude had the whole "generous husband" act down pat. My closet? Stuffed with designer dresses, handbags that cost more than most people''s rent, and jewelry that could blind one.


    To the world, I was Mrs. Carson, all glitz and untouchable charm.


    But behind the curtain? Every gown I wore to those swanky gs, every ne that sparkled under the chandeliers, needed his stamp of approval. His secretary would unlock the safe from god-knows-where, like I was a prop in his perfect little show.


    "You''ve never done shit for this family," he''d spit. "You don''t get to raid the vault just because you feel like it."


    I flicked open my phone. Thepany gossip chat was still lit up, dissecting Jude and Vivian from the day before.


    [Is Mr. Carson actually serious this time? Doesn''t he cycle through his flings every month?]


    [Oh, it''s legit. Vivian''s been on his arm for, like, three months straight.]


    [Yesterday was 2/14, yeah? They were lighting up the beach with fireworks. Fucking storybook shit. Did you see that diamond ne on Vivian? Damn near scorched my retinas.]


    [Wait, wasn''t Jude''s wedding on 2/14? Didn''t we all get wasted at the reception?]


    I let out a dry, bitter chuckle. My coworkers had our anniversary burned into their brains, but Jude? He didn''t give a damn.


    I''d spent all of yesterday psyching myself up to face him, to demand the heirlooms my mom left me so we could cut ties and be done with it.


    But when I saw the dinner I''d cooked sitting there, cold and forgotten on the table, something snapped. I snatched my keys and bolted.


    I didn''t need him anymore. I needed money.


    At Carson Group, Vivian was soaking up the spotlight, surrounded by a pack of brown-nosers hanging on her every word.


    "Vivian, Jude''s treating you like royalty. That ne''s gotta be worth a mint!"


    "What kind of dor-store vision you got? It''s Moriano''s newest piece. Six figures, minimum."


    Vivian tossed her hair with a smirk that screamed self-satisfied. "It''s no big thing. I liked it, he grabbed it.


    "I told him it was too much, but he said anything less wouldn''t do me justice."


    I leaned against the office doorway, watching her preen, a cold, gnawing pain wing at my insides.


    It was almost too absurd to stomach. There I was, staring down a death sentence with no way to scrape together the cash for surgery, while Jude was tossing six- figure baubles at his sidepiece like they were candy.


    Then Vivian''s eyes snapped to mine-her first time ever seeing me. She raked me up and down, her gaze slicing through me, all sneer and superiority. "Who the fuck are you? What, they don''t teach manners in this dump?"she said.


    A couple of her hangers-on caught sight of me and grabbed her sleeve, whispering, "Vivian, chill. That''s Mr. Carson''s wife. Ada."


    She froze for a split second, her confidence wobbling like a bad tightrope act. But


    then her smirk slithered back, sharper, nastier, like she''d just found a new toy to break.


    "So this is Ada, the so-called campus goddess?" she snorted. "What a fucking letdown."

 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2 Wired To My ount.


    Vivian wasn''t wrong-I looked like death itself.


    Three months back, cancer had roared back into my life, stripping me down to bones and shadows. I was all jagged edges, my face hollowed out.


    Then there was Vivian: glowing, cute as hell, with that delicate face and huge, sparkly eyes. She could''ve been my college twin, plucked straight from my better days.


    Next to her, I wasn''t just a wreck-I was barely alive, a ghost clinging to the edges.


    But what could I have done? I was already halfway gone.


    A coworker leaned in, whispering, "Cool it, girl. Mr. Carson was crazy about his


    wife. You kept running your mouth, and you''d be screwed."


    Everyone bought the lie that Jude was my forever guy.


    Total bullshit. If they''d known the truth, they''d have seen he''d have danced on my grave.


    Vivian rolled her eyes but pped on a smile so fake it could''ve curdled milk. "Hey, Ada, sweetie, Mr. Carson was in the middle of a huge video call. No walk- ins, you know the deal."


    She tilted her head, that smirk creeping back. "But if it was urgent, I could''ve just... popped in and filled him in for you."


    Trantion: I owned his world, and you were nothing. She was practically shoving her status in my face.


    Her smile was stunning-if one ignored the cold, scheming glint in her eyes.


    And that smile? God, it was like staring at my old self, back when I still had fire. No wonder Jude was hooked.


    His other women-flings, "assistants," whatever they''d been nothing serious. Just toys for a quick thrill.


    Each one was a test, a jab to see if I''d crack.


    At first, I''d lost it-screamed, fought, tore into him. But the louder I got, the more he loved it, like my pain was his damn drug.


    So I shut down. Went nk.


    Eventually, I could''ve watched him unt some woman right in front of me and still closed the door with a smile, like I was their fucking butler.


    But Vivian? He''d kept her hidden. No parading her at home, no shoving her in my face.


    Still, the office group chat was a gossip mill-photos of them at the movies, cozy candlelit dinners, strutting around in matching outfits like some sappy rom couple.


    That wasn''t a fling. He was in deep.


    And every rumor, every image, felt like my own youth ying back to mock me.


    I dropped into a chair, locking eyes with her, calm as stone."No hurry. I''ll wait.


    "Oh, and could you grab me a coffee? Milk, two sugars. Thanks."


    Vivian froze, my coolness hitting her like a p. Her face twisted, and she snapped, "Who the hell do you think you are, bossing me around?"


    "And who the hell are you?" I fired back, my voice t, not a spark of emotion.


    She choked on her words, her cheeks burning red, that bratty swagger crumbling fast.


    That loud, entitled attitude? It was like staring at the old me, all spark and no


    scars.


    Jude must''ve turned the world upside down to find a replica this wless.


    But someone had already poured me a fresh coffee and slid it my way.


    I caught Vivian hiss "suck-up" under her breath, and the poor colleague''s face lit


    up like a tomato as they hightailed it out of there.


    I let out a low chuckle, barely audible. "So, Vivian, you know you''re a fucking side piece, don''t you?"


    No clue which word stabbed her ego, but her eyes brimmed with tears, and she went off like a firecracker. "Oh, be quiet! The real side piece is the one no one gives a shit about!


    "Jude''s been done with you for years! You''re the one glomming onto him like a goddamn parasite!"


    "Look at you¡ªwhat a fucking wreck! Who''d ever want that?"


    She came at me, hands wing like she meant to haul me out of my chair.


    I just shook my head, almost pitying the kid. She was all spit and vinegar, too young to know better, but I wasn''t here to throw down with some starry-eyed fool.


    The day after our first anniversary, when Jude strutted in with a pair of blonde bimbos, my heart didn''t just break-it fucking disintegrated.


    Wasting my breath on him, letting him eat up what little I had left? Hell no, not worth a second of it.


    A couple of coworkers jumped in, grabbing her before she could do more damage. All she got was my coffee cup, which hit the floor and exploded into shards.


    A tiny nick opened on her hand, and surprise, surprise-she started bawling like


    it was the end of the world.


    I nced at the coffee sshed across my clothes. Good call on the ck outfit today; the stains were barely a whisper.


    "Ada, what''s your deal? I didn''t take you for such a vicious bitch!"Jude''s voice sliced through the air.


    I looked up, and there he was, cradling Vivian like she was made of porcin.


    The cut on her hand was a joke-hardly a drop of blood-but Jude was acting like she''d lost a limb.


    "What the fuck are you idiots doing? Get the damn first-aid kit already!"he yelled. "And call my doctor-tell him to get his ass to the office now!"


    I watched the whole pathetic soap opera y out, my face a nk mask, but I caught the smug little glint in Vivian''s eyes.


    What the hell was she so proud of? Getting fawned over by aplete trash heap like Jude was some kind of triumph? It wasughable, really-pathetic,


    even.


    Maybe my icy stare got under her skin, because her eyes welled up again, and her voice turned syrupy with fake remorse. "Mr. Carson, I''m so sorry. I didn''t mean to get Ada all riled up.


    "But I can''t just shut down my heart, you know? Is it a crime to fall head over heels for someone? Are we wrong for loving each other?"


    She cried like she was auditioning for a rom, tears sparkling like they''d been choreographed, pretty enough to twist anyone''s gut.


    Jude was all in, wiping her cheeks like she was his entire universe, then shooting me a re that could burn holes.


    "What the fuck are you even doing here, Ada? You haven''t bothered showing up to the office in ages,"he said coldly.


    I let a small, sharp smirk tug at my lips. So he''d noticed I''d been ghosting the ce, huh? Good to know he wasn''tpletely blind.


    I stood up, towering over the sorry pair sprawled on the floor, and felt a flicker of something-maybe satisfaction, maybe just exhaustion.


    I said calmly,"Jude, I want 30 grand. Wired to my ount. Today. Or else¡ª"


    "Or else what?" he snapped, his eyes zing like I''d just pissed in his cereal.


    I grinned wider, jabbing a finger at the shy diamond ne hanging off Vivian''s neck. "That''s ours-marital property. Thew says I''m entitled to half, so don''t test me.


    "You''ve got thirty minutes. No money, and I''m dialing the cops. Your call."

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3 Payment


    Before we said our vows, we''d struck a deal: Jude wanted a wife on his arm, I wanted his bank ount.


    Every month, without fail, he''d wire me 60 grand. If I was short, all I had to do was open my mouth.


    He threw it in my face once, voice dripping with venom, that he knew I was only in it for the cash. Why else would I have ghosted him for that loaded jackass who ditched me for Kasend for two years?


    He never figured out who this "rich boy" everyone gossiped about was, but he''d bet his life I was just a money-grubbing leech.


    Once we were married, I barely touched his money. But even with 60 grand hitting my ount every month, I was always one step from broke.


    Staying ahead of the cancer meant popping pills that cost a fortune, and the endless scans and check-ups bled me dry just as fast.


    Today was only the second time I''d ever gone to him, swallowing my pride to ask for help. The first was when my mom passed.


    Back then, he didn''t hesitate-just handed over 300 thousand dors, clean and simple, no strings.


    This time, though? He didn''t even look up, too busy stroking Vivian''s hair, cooing at her like I was a ghost in the room.


    Only when Vivian quit her fake-ass sobbing did he bother to nce my way, his lips twisting into a cruel smirk. "You want money? Sure thing. Just beg for forgiveness."


    "You screwed up," he spat. "You hurt her. Say sorry to Vivian, or you get nothing."


    Vivian''s eyes popped wide, all mock surprise, but that smug grin spread like wildfire.


    She clung to Jude''s sleeve, pouting just enough to y the part. "Jude, baby, let it go. I''m not that messed up. Maybe she didn''t mean to be such a cunt."


    "Doesn''t matter what she meant," he growled, voice sharp as a de. "She''s apologizing. You''re the one I care about, Vivian. Not her."


    He scooped Vivian up and eased her onto the couch with a tenderness I''d never known.


    He then yanked out his checkbook with a smirk, scribbling a number with this cocky flourish that practically screamed, Go fuck yourself. Then he dangled the check in front of me like it was a goddamn carrot.


    "Come on, just beg. Say you''re sorry, and this 1.5 mil''s all yours," he taunted, voice dripping with smug bastard energy.


    I stared at the check, and for a fleeting moment, the fire in my chest dulled to a simmer.


    He''d dragged women through our house before-countless faces, all meant to cut me down.


    But that was always behind closed doors, our dirty little secret. Out in public, no matter how much he fucked around, I was still Mrs. Carson-his untouchable wife.


    This time, though, he was doing it for her. Throwing his money in my face to make me crawl for Vivian''s smug satisfaction.


    He knew I wouldn''te begging unless I was out of options. That was the whole point, wasn''t it?


    He wanted my self-respect ground into the dirt, wanted me to feel like trash. Only then would he sleep easy.


    I stood there, glued to the spot, while the room pulsed with stares-coworkers gawking, judging, or tossing me scraps of pity I didn''t want.


    Vivian''s eyes locked on mine, gleaming with vicious glee, daring me to break.


    Her earlier jab echoed in my skull. "The one he doesn''t give a shit about? That''s the real mistress."


    I jammed my hand against my chest, pressing hard, as if I could squash the ache before it swallowed me whole. Cancer was a mean bastard, but this hurt cut deeper, sharper.


    "Shove your money up your ass," I said, voice cold and steady.


    I spun on my heel and marched out of that office, head held high, done with his sick little power trip.


    He hated me-fine. Let him try to rip me to shreds. Crushing my pride wasn''t enough for him; he''d need to draw more blood to feel like a man.


    But if he ever found out I needed that cash to keep my heart beating and he''d waved it in my face just to yank it away? Hell, he''d probably throw a goddamn party and toast to my misery.


    I staggered through my front door, every inch of me screaming for copse, wrung out like a dishrag.


    Bone-deep exhaustion weighed me down, my eyes burning for sleep, but the pain -fuck, that relentless pain-wed at any chance of rest.


    Cancer''s grip was a knife in my marrow, and this wasn''t my first dance with it.


    Mom''sst days flooded back-her gaunt face, her brittle frame wasting away. The image sank its teeth into me, but I clenched my jaw, hauled myself up, and choked down two mtonin pills, praying they''d dull the edge.


    My phone buzzed, slicing through the fog. A message from the doctor. [Ms. Watson, surgery''s set for Monday. Can you swing by soon to handle the payment?]


    I stared at the words, rereading them until they swam together. No bank alert. No deposit. Nothing.


    I squeezed my eyes shut, the truthnding like a punch-Jude wasn''t forking over a dime. Not now, not ever.


    A few minutester, another ping from the doctor. [Even a deposit works to lock it


    in.]


    My thumb lingered over the keyboard, itching to type something, anything. But what? [Hey, I am t broke]?


    I let it go, the screen fading to ck. No money, no surgery. End of story.


    I crumpled onto the bed, desperate to switch off my brain.


    Tomorrow''s n was already taking shape-I''d smash the ss on my wardrobe and pawn those stupid designer bags gathering dust. Whatever got me through.


    But for now, I needed sleep. Without it, I''d be too wrecked to survive the scalpel. Half-conscious, I sank into a dream that stretched on like a lifetime.


    Back when my family was still somebody, when I was the Watson princess strutting through life, and Jude was just a scrappy orphan with nothing to his


    name.


    Dad was picking kids to fund for school, and I locked eyes on Jude instantly.


    He''d already bagged a schrship, so he didn''t even need the help, but I whined and needled until Dad tossed him the spot.


    I chased him, too. God, did I chase him. He was a brick wall-aloof, distant, shutting me down left and right.


    Until that night at the grimy bar where he slung drinks.


    Some greasy punks got handsy, and he stepped in, voice steady as steel."Ada, stay cool. I''ve got this."


    He got pounded that night-face mashed up like raw meat-but he nted himself between me and them, like nothing else mattered.


    In the hospital, Itched onto him, arms locked around his neck, clinging like a damn ko, terrified he''d vanish if I blinked.


    I cried out,"Jude, you scared the living shit outta me! You''re mine now, got it?"


    He shed a busted, lopsided grin, words slurring through swollen lips. "Yeah, fine."


    And just like that, we were us.


    Campus buzzed with hot takes-everyone betting we''d me out. But we didn''t. We held on, stubborn as hell, for three whole years.


    Right before graduation, he sold this app he''d ved over, his pride and joy, just


    to buy me a birthday gift that''d mean something.


    When I opened the box and saw that diamond ne glinting up at me, I fucking lost it, tears streaming.


    I hammered his chest, voice cracking. "Why''d you do it, Jude? That was six months of your goddamn life!"


    He just smiled, all soft and dumb, and said, "Ada, you''re worth every thing."


    Ping.


    My phone''s chime jolted me awake, heart hammering.


    A bank alert lit up the screen-30,000 dors, sitting pretty in my ount. Relief


    crashed over me, so sharp it stung.


    I scrubbed the tears off my cheeks, hands shaky, and tapped out a reply to the doctor. [Coming by tomorrow toplete admission procedures.]


    The money was real. I''d made it.

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4 Sign It Myself


    Jude didn''te home that night. He was still glued to Vivian''s side, ying her personal hero.


    Thepany group chat was a dumpster fire, everyone piling on with their hot takes.


    [Mr. Carson''s gotta chill, man. A little scrape, and he''s carting her to the hospital?]


    [That''s his golden girl, idiots. Dude was sweating bullets.]


    [Was Ada at the office to drag the sidepiece or what?]


    [Heard she only wanted 30 grand. Kinda sad, right? I priced Vivian''s ne- 65 grand, no cap.]


    I killed the app, a bitter smirk twisting my mouth.


    The "CEO''s wife," some pathetic sob story? Please. That was rich.


    The noise yanked me awake, and sleep wasn''t happening. So, I started packing.


    This wasn''t my first hospital go-around-I could''ve done it in my sleep. I grabbed my stuff with cold, practiced hands.


    Everything at home was Jude''s idea of "ssy." Silk sheets that cost more than my rent back in the day, fluffy duvets, even the tissues were some fancy imported bullshit.


    I jammed it all into my suitcase, no guilt. Hospitals would rob you blind, and I wasn''t wasting a dime.


    Sure, I had that hundred grand now, but what if surgery hit me with some nasty surprise?


    In there, cash burned faster than I can blink. I''d rather hoard it than get caught short.


    My jewelry was a joke-barely enough to fill a thimble. I stood by the cab, ring at the electronic lock, then let it go.


    Smash it? Yeah, that''d probably screw me out of the operating room entirely.


    Instead, I dug through my little box and pulled out some basic gold studs and a diamond ring so small it was practically invisible.


    Jude said it was the ring-the one he scraped together to propose with back when we were nobodies.


    God, he must''ve starved for months to buy it. I slipped it on, my heart giving a stupid little twist.


    It was worthless now-pawn it, and I''d be lucky to get gas money. The setting was so tacky it was almost funny.


    But it''s something. Maybe myst-ditch shot if shit hits the fan.


    Bags packed, I started hunting for a caregiver who wouldn''t cost an arm and a leg. Then sunrise crept in.


    My doctor called, sounding like he''d just won the lottery. "I''ve got admissions sorted. Get over here and sign the forms."


    "Drop ten thousand up front, and we''ll stick you in a shared room. You can go halves on a caregiver with the other patient."


    He knew I was scraping by and had every cheap trick in the book ready for me.


    I muttered thanks, dragging my suitcase to the door.


    Just as I was about to ditch, a pitiful whimper hit me from next door.


    The neighbor''s door swung open with a bang, and Toto, that giant dork of a dog, came barreling toward me, yowling like I was ghosting him for good.


    I dropped to my knees, choking back a sob, and hugged his giant head. "Be good, buddy. Mommy''sing back soon, I swear. You hang in there."


    And if I didn''t, you better live your best life.


    The neighbordy hovered, like she was swallowing something heavy. "Hold up, kid," she said, voice soft.


    She shuffled back inside, and when she came out, she was holding this cheesy talisman, the kind that screams dor-store spiritual.


    "Snagged this for you on that hikest week," she said, shoving it into my palm. "Keeps the bad luck away, got it? Stay safe."


    I eyed the thing "Luck" scratched across it, but missing the k. I forced a smile and nodded.


    She was a sweetheart, even though her taste in talismans was crap. Toto''s in good hands with her, no question.


    I turned, stepped into the elevator, and squeezed the talisman till my knuckles whitened. That misspelled "Luck" stared back at me, taunting.


    A dumb, desperate thought hit me like a punch-if luck''s missing a piece, maybe I


    got to cheat fate and stick around a little longer?


    With the doctor''s prep, I breezed through hospital check-in.


    Stretched out on the bed, staring down tomorrow''s surgery, I felt oddly grounded, like I could breathe for the first time in weeks.


    I must''ve nodded off, because next thing I knew, I was dreaming-back at the school gate, loitering for Jude to show up after his shift.


    He''d always roll in with those dirt-cheap cheese tarts I pretended to be obsessed with.


    Real talk? They tasted like cardboardced with fake vani, but at a buck a pop, I wasn''tining.


    I''d choke one down, acting like it was gourmet, and Jude would sh this dorky grin that lit up his whole face. He was stupidly hot when he smiled like that, and it always made my heart do this annoying little flip.


    Then my phone rang. I grabbed it without thinking. "Hey, Jude, grab me a blueberry tart, kay? Get there early before they sell out."


    There was a pause, like he was caught off guard, then his voice came through, all soft and steady. "Yeah, alright. I got you."


    I rolled over, sinking back into the haze. A good dream, for once. Fucking miracle.


    Morning hit, and I woke up weirdly amped, like I''d chugged a Red Bull. The nurse clocked my mood and grinned. "Well, girl, you''re vibing today! Surgery''s gonna be a m dunk."


    But then the doctor stormed in, face like a thundercloud, and ruined it. "Ada, I don''t care what your deal is, but it''s surgery day. No family? Really? Someone''s gotta sign these papers.¡±


    I stared at my feet, irritation sparking in my chest. Family? What a load of shit. I didn''t have anybody-nobody except Jude.


    The doctor clocked my vibe, sighed like I was his problem child, and muttered, "Sort it out. We''re slicing you open soon." Then he bailed, leaving me to marinate in my own dread.


    I nced at my phone, my stomach twisting into knots.


    What if this was it? What if I didn''t wake up? The thought sank its teeth into me, cold and sharp, and wouldn''t let go.


    Then my phone buzzed-Jude''s name shing. My heart did a pathetic lurch, and I answered way too fast, voice all bright and desperate. "Jude!" "What the hell, Ada?" he barked, sounding like he was ready to throw hands. "You screwing with me? Said you wanted those goddamn tarts, and now you''re MIA? Where the hell you at?"


    My brain short-circuited. Yesterday''s call-it wasn''t a dream. Jude really called. He really went and bought those tarts, probably stood in line for them like an idiot. Tears burned my eyes, spilling over before I could stop them. The doctor''s words echoed, heavy as a brick. I tried to talk, my voice cracking. "Jude, I''m¡ª¡±


    "Jude, these tarts are so good, oh my God!" Vivian''s voice cut in, all fake-sweet and territorial, like she was rubbing it in my face.


    My chest caved. I smashed the end call button, my hands shaking.


    So that''s how it was. He got her now, brought her into his world.


    I forced myself to breathe, slipped on my shoes, and dragged my ass to the


    doctor''s office. My voice came out t, hollow, like it wasn''t even mine. "Doc, I''m signing the papers myself."

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5 Bad Luck


    The doctor held my gaze for an eternity, his eyes probing, searching for some crack in my resolve.


    Finally, with a heavy sigh, he slid the surgical consent form across the desk."You sure you''re good with this? If things go south in there, it''s gonna be a hell of a mess to clean up."


    "Doc, I''m betting on you. I mean it."I grabbed the pen, my fingers trembling just enough to betray me, and scrawled my name across the dotted line.


    My life, my death-they were mine to wager, weren''t they? No one else got a say anymore.


    He opened his mouth, probably to talk me out of it, but before he could get a word out, the door mmed open with a force that rattled the walls.


    A mob poured in, their shouts hitting like a tidal wave. Someone knocked into me -hard-and I staggered, my head smacking the sharp corner of the desk.


    The world tilted, then dimmed. Warmth trickled down my forehead, thick and sluggish, stinging as it seeped into my eyes and blurred the madness around me.


    The room was a war zone. Voices shed, sharp and venomous, drowning each other out.


    "What kind of bullshit ''chief physician'' are you? We paid out the ass for this, and now you''re saying she needs another surgery?"


    "You swore the tumor was gone! How the hell does it juste back? You''re nothing but a goddamn con artist!"


    "Money-grubbing quacks! No soul, no shame-I oughta beat the shit outta you!"


    I pressed my palm to my forehead, pain pulsing hot and relentless. My legs were jelly, useless, refusing to hold me up.


    Someone''s shoe pinned the edge of my shirt to the floor, and no matter how I tugged, I was trapped, stuck in the chaos like a bug under ss.


    The office was a whirlwind of fists and fury, and it felt like forever before security finally barged in, barking orders that cut through the haze and forced the fighting a halt.


    Then came a scream, shrill enough to pierce the fog in my head. "Holy shit, she''s bleeding! Is she fucking dead?"


    Every eye in the room swung to me, their stares heavy, like I was some kind of spectacle.


    The crowd took a nervous step back, leaving me sprawled there, raw and exposed.


    A young nurse, barely sturdy enough to keep herself upright, was the first to kneel beside me, her voice trembling."Ms. Watson, oh God, are you okay? Come on, let''s get that cut cleaned up."


    Her hands shook as she tried to hoist me up, but she was too slight, and I was too far gone, my body sinking under its own weight.


    Then the doctor was there, his grip strong and steady as he pulled me to my feet.


    I caught a glimpse of him-his sses cracked, one lenspletely shattered, his neat hair now a wild mess. Angry red scratches crisscrossed his cheek, proof he''d taken a beating.


    I wanted to muster a smile, to wave it off, to show I wasn''t as fragile as I looked. But my body betrayed me, heavy and hollowed out, like it was already slipping away.


    The doctor sighed, guilt etched into every line of his face. "Jesus, I''m so damn sorry. You got caught up in my mess. The surgery... it''s gotta wait now."


    I shook my head slowly, the motion sluggish, wanting to tell him it didn''t matter. What was one more dy? Another day, another hour¡ªit was all just borrowed time.


    No one was waiting for me to make it through. No one would miss me if I didn''t. The thought sank its ws into me, sharp and cold, but I shoved it down, locking it away where it couldn''t cut any deeper.


    By the time the cops showed up to take statements, I''d scraped together enough of myself to sit upright, though every breath felt like dragging air through broken ss.


    A female officer crouched beside me, her eyes soft with a pity that stung worse than the gash on my head.


    "Your condition''s no joke, honey," she said. "The assholes who started this shit are locked up now. You can hit ''em up for damagester.


    "We reached your family. They''ll be here soon."


    I blinked, her words hitting like a p I hadn''t seening. "Who? My family?"


    "Yeah, well, your husband''s secretary answered, but don''t worry-he''ll show."


    I dropped my gaze to my hands, fingers twisting together in myp until my knuckles whitened. Would hee? I wasn''t sure.


    If the police were involved, maybe he''d drag himself over to keep up appearances. Maybe.


    It wasn''t just me who''d been caught in the chaos. Two other patients had been in


    the room, but somehow, only the doctor and I ended up bloodied.


    One of them, a guy slouched against the wall, caught my eye and smirked, muttering that I must''ve pissed off the universe itself-everyone else walked away fine, and here I was, a walking trainwreck.


    He wasn''t wrong. Bad luck clung to me like a second skin, and it wasn''t letting go.


    I''d wed my way to this surgery, scraping together every cent for a chance to keep breathing, only for it to be yanked out of reach. My body was fading, though flickering like a candle burned down to the wick. I could feel it in the way my pulse stuttered, in the bone-deep exhaustion that wouldn''t lift. I wasn''t sure it would wait for a second chance.


    The emergency room buzzed with people, every one of them nked by family, and it hit me like a punch to the chest. Why did everyone else get someone?


    I watched a doctor''s wife and daughter cling to him, their eyes puffy from crying, while he murmured softforts.


    Envy burned in my throat, raw and relentless. We used to have that-me, Mom, Dad. A real family. But they were gone, and that warmth was just a ghost now.


    I sniffed hard, shoving down the ache, and braced for a long, lonely wait.


    Then, out of nowhere, Jude showed up-Vivian hot on his heels, like always. I''d just gotten a single stitch in my forehead, and the doctor wouldn''t stop yammering.


    "Lucky it''s buried in your hairline," he said, threading the needle. "A scar on a pretty thing like you? Be a crying shame."


    I caught my reflection in the ss behind him-skinny as a rail, cheeks hollow, looking like death warmed over. Pretty? What a load of bullshit.


    That''s when Jude stormed through the door. Vivian, naturally, jumped in first, grilling the doctor like she''s running the show.


    When she heard it was just one stitch, her face screamed loser.


    "You''ve gotta be kidding me, Ada," she said, practically sneering. "One little stitch and you''re ying the martyr? You know Jude had to blow off a massive deal because of your drama? Way to fuck everything up."


    The doctor''s jaw tightened, but he kept his mouth shut.


    "What the hell are you doing in a hospital?" Jude barked, looming over me like I was some annoying errand he forgot to cross off his list.


    "I have to stay," I said, my voice t. Cancer''s eating me alive. Surgery''sing.


    The words burned in my throat, begging to spill out, but I mped them down. Why waste my breath? He''d just roll his eyes.


    Vivian let out augh that could''ve curdled milk. "Stay? For one tiny stitch? God, Ada, could you be any more of a drama queen?¡±


    She sidled up to Jude, standing shoulder-to-shoulder like she was staking her im. "You''re always screwing things up for him. One call from you, and he blows off a deal that could''ve made bank. Who''s gonna eat that loss, huh? You?"


    I shed back to what the cops said about calling Jude. My gaze slid to Vivian, and a slow, smug grin tugged at my lips.


    "I didn''t call him," I said, letting the words hang. "You know that."


    Her eyes went wide for a heartbeat, panic flickering before she smoothed it over. Jude didn''t notice he was too busy shooting me a look that could freeze hell.


    "Damn, Ada," he said, his voice low and cutting. "Didn''t think you had it in you to y this dirty. Pulling some sob-story stunt for attention? That''s next-level."


    He leaned closer, his eyes narrowing to slits. "Using the fucking dog? You''re a piece of work."


    I blinked, thrown for a loop, then let out a dry, bitter chuckle. Oh, he finally noticed Toto had been crashing with the neighbors? Took him long enough.


    "Ada!" he snapped, lunging like he was about to grab my shirt. "You''reughing? I didn''t know you were this kind of person."


    A nurse smacked his hand away before he could touch me. "Hey, sir, back off!" she snapped. "You don''t know anything about what Ms. Watson''s "


    She didn''t finish. Vivian yanked at Jude''s sleeve, her voice all soft and pathetic now. "Jude, I''m itching like crazy," she whined. "Think I''m allergic to something."


    He spun to her, his whole vibe shifting-gentle, worried, like I didn''t exist anymore. Her arm was red, splotchy, angry.


    "Shit, Vivian, that looks bad," he said, soft as hell, his hand cradling her like she was made of ss. "I told you to stay away from that damn dog. Come on, let''s find a doctor."

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6 Swallowing The Bitter Pill


    Watching their shadows fade down the hall, it mmed into me like a gut punch.


    No wonder Jude never hauled Vivian''s ass home-her prissy self couldn''t deal with dog hair.


    The young nurse, all fidgety and fired up, looked ready to chase him down, but I caught her wrist.


    "Ms. Watson, that''s your husband, isn''t it? What a goddamn asshole!" She was fresh-faced, probably just out of nursing school, her eyes zing with that righteous fury.


    I shook my head, a tired smirk tugging at my lips. ¡°Don''t sweat it. We''re through. If he''d hung around, I''d probably be dead already."


    They said anger was a slow poison for women, eating us from the inside out.


    Maybe that was why, after three years of biting my tongue and swallowing my rage, the cancer roared back, hungrier than ever.


    Once the shitshow cleared, the doctor got back to work, penciling in my surgery.


    Maybe he felt a pang of guilt, because even though my vitals were barely scraping by, they fast-tracked me.


    I couldn''t help but wonder if that little talisman from the neighbordy was actually pulling some weight.


    The docs had all but written me off, saying a second rpse meant I was screwed, but this time? The surgery was a fucking breeze.


    Guess life cutting me a break, even a tiny one, bought me a few more days.


    Crazy as it sounds, I almost wanted to thank Jude for being such a dick today. If he''d yed the doting husband, I''d probably have dropped dead from the sheer shock.


    In the ICU, the pain was a monster-white-hot, like my skull was splitting open.


    This wasn''t my first dance with a scalpel, but holy hell, it hurt worse than before. Maybe because this time, I knew nobody gave a damn if I made it.


    Back in Kasend for my first surgery, Mom was there, her hand in mine, whispering I''d be okay.


    Thinking of her now, my throat closed up, and tears burned their way out. If I''d just listened to her¡ªreally listened¡ªwould she still be here? Would I be less of a wreck?


    The nurse at my bedside, checking the monitors, leaned in and softly wiped my tears with a tissue. "Hey, you nailed it today-surgery was a m dunk. It''s just the anesthesia fading; it''ll sting like a motherfucker for a bit. You''ve got this, though."


    Her eyes were swimming with pity, and I didn''t need a crystal ball to know why.


    I''d probably be the hospital''s juicy gossip¡ªnot for the gash on my head, but because my husband sauntered off with his sidepiece, leaving his dying wife to fend for herself.


    But fuck it¡ªI didn''t care anymore. Breathing meant I still had a chance, and that was enough.


    The days after the surgery slogged by, and my phone didn''t buzz once. No calls, no texts, just silence. I was too drained to give a shit anyway.


    The sweet olddy in the next bed and I pooled our cash for a caregiver, which saved me a few grand. Small victories, right? At least I''d take those.


    In the dead of night, when the world felt like it was holding its breath, I''d grab my phone and scroll, chasing ghosts.


    Jude had gone radio silent. No calls, no texts, not even azy WhatsApp emoji to pretend he gave a shit.


    But I couldn''t dodge the flood of him and Vivian. She was everywhere, her life sshed across my screen like a bad movie I couldn''t quit watching.


    Vivian was the queen of oversharing, vomiting her perfect little moments onto Ins like it was her diary.


    Even in the gossip group-where she didn''t even belong-she was the sun, and everyone else just orbited her drama.


    [Mr. Carson''s got it bad, huh? She gets a tickle from allergies, and he''s flying her to Sorene City for some beach vibes?]


    [Us peasants are out here grinding proposals, while she''s getting massages and sipping pi?a cdas. Life ain''t fair.]


    [I mean, we''re not doing that bad, right? At least we''re not his wife, swallowing heartbreak with her morning coffee.]


    [Real talk¡ªMr. Carson''s screwing around right under her nose, and she''s just... fine with it? Damn.]


    Every time they tossed around their names, I felt their eyes on me, even through the screen.


    To them, I was a walking punchline-the pitiful wife with a glowing "loser" sign over her head, clinging to Jude''s cash while pretending I didn''t hear the whispers.


    They''d erased who I used to be. I was a designer once, the kind who made people stop and stare at my work.


    When I first joined thepany, they''d yanked me into that gossip group, no idea I was Jude''s wife.


    Back then, I was one of them,ughing over every spilled secret. Now? I was a shadow, forgotten, just another name in the chat nobody thought about twice.


    I was about to toss my phone across the room when it lit up. A client. I hadn''t touched that project in months and had zero clue why they were calling.


    The second I picked up, they came at me like a freight train. "Ms. Watson, if Carson Group''s done with us, just say it don''t leave us hanging like assholes! "Mr. Carson''s dodging every call, there''s no one to deal with-what the fuck''s going on with our project? Who''s eating the losses here?"


    Their anger roared through the line, louder with every word. Slowly, it clicked: Jude had bailed on work-my old project included-to y Romeo with Vivian in Sorene City.


    I let them scream themselves hoarse, then said, voice barely holding together,


    "I''m sorry, I just had surgery. I don''t runpany stuff anymore."


    I''d learned the hard way¡ªwhen it was not your screw-up, you go soft. Why the hell should I mop up his mess?


    The guy on the phone stumbled, his fire dimming. "Wait, surgery? You''re in the hospital?"


    "Yeah. If you can''t get him, try his secretary. I''m no use to you,"I said.


    Then I hung up, my eyes catching Vivian''stest post in the group¡ªa sun-soaked selfie, all smug smiles and ocean waves. I shut my phone off, like that could shut off the ache in my chest.


    Jude used to notice everything about me. My peanut allergy? He''d grill waiters like a detective, pick out every nut from my te with this quiet focus that made my heart twist.


    Now Vivian was whining about dog fur, and he''s carting her off to the coast for "fresh air." Sure. Made sense. Why wouldn''t it?


    The scar from my surgery burned, a sharp, crawling pain that felt like it was wing into my soul. I sank my teeth into my lip, hard enough to sting, and lied to myself, " It''s nothing. You''re fine."


    But the next day, the pain turned vicious, sinking its teeth deeper.


    The doctor gave me that look-kind but no-nonsense. "Ms. Watson, those meds I mentioned? You need them for at least six months.


    "This is your second rpse. You can''t keep betting on luck to pull you through."


    He was right, but those pills might as well have been made of gold. And the pain ¡ªit was breaking me, grinding me down until I couldn''t think straight.


    So, hating every second of it, I swallowed what was left of my pride and dialed Jude.


    "Hey. Jude''s in the shower. What do you need?"Vivian''s voice cut through the line,zy and sharp, like she''d been waiting for me to crack.


    My heart seized, the pain in my chest blooming brighter than the scar, heavier than the betrayal I''d been pretending I could carry.

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7 Thick-Skinned Bastard


    Jude treated his phone like it was the Holy Grail-nobody got near it without a fight.


    So how the hell had it happened twice now? First the cops, then me, and both times, it was Vivian''s smug voice purring through the line.


    "If you''ve got nothing worth my time, I''m out. We''re mmed," she said, leaning hard into the "we" like she was shoving it in my face that she and Jude were glued at the hip.


    "Tell him to hit me back when he''s done washing up," I said, my voice cracking, pain twisting through me like a knife.


    That little shake in my words? It was like I''d handed her a fucking trophy. Her tone turned so bubbly it made my skin crawl.


    "Oh, sweetheart, after his shower, he''s got way better ns than dealing with you," she fired back, dripping with venom. "Got something to say? Lay it on me. It''s all the same."


    My lips twitched into a bitter smirk. God, she thought she was running the show. But I was too worn out to sling mud with her-not today, not like this.


    "Vivian," I said, keeping my voice cold and steady, "those fancy little getaways to Sorene City? All paid for with our money-Jude''s and mine.


    "Those lovey-dovey pics of you two? That''s cheating, in as day. If I haul your ass to court, you think you''re skating without paying me back?"


    I''d hit a raw nerve, and she lost it. Her voice screeched high enough to shatter ss." Ada, you better watch your damn mouth! You think Jude gives a shit about you anymore? Dried-up, pathetic old cow-wake the fuck up!"


    "All you ever talk about is money, you grasping bitch. Selfish doesn''t even cover it. Jude wishes he''d neverid eyes on you," she spat. "What, you want cash? Keep dreaming.


    "You could waste away, starve, or drop dead, and he wouldn''t spare you a second nce."


    Beep-


    The call cut off. I stared at the phone, the screen gone dark, and let out a breath so heavy it felt like it''d been locked in my chest forever.


    What was even the point of fighting to stay alive? If I cared-really cared-wouldn''t I have begged? Clung to the phone, pleading for a piece of him? Instead, I was just... empty, staring into the void and wondering when I''d stopped giving a damn. Just then, a voice shouted out, "Ada? Ada!"


    The curtain between the hospital beds got ripped open, and there was Casey Olsen, eyes wide like she''d stumbled into a nightmare.


    Chapter 7 Thick-Skinned Bastard


    She cried out, "What the hell are you doing here? Did you-holy shit, did you have surgery? What''s happening?"


    "Is it back?" she demanded, voice breaking. "They swore it wouldn''te back after


    thest one!"


    She threw questions at me like punches, and I had nothing to throw back-just sat there, tongue-tied and hollow.


    When she finally ran out of steam, I managed to rasp, "Why''re you here?"


    She nodded toward the next bed, where an old womany, brittle as a dried leaf. "That is my grandma. Flew in, came straight here."


    Her eyes flicked back to me, soft for a second before turning fierce. "But you- what the hell''s going on? Why didn''t you tell me you were sick? Where''s Jude?"


    Then it clicked for her, and her face twisted with disgust. "Hold up. Was that his fucking mistress on the phone? He''s that much of a scumbag now?"


    The room went dead quiet, save for the faint beep of the monitor tracking my sorry heartbeat. I knew well the call wasn''t private-hospital rooms are about as soundproof as tissue paper.


    But what was I gonna do? My body was a prison, chaining me to this bed, too weak to dodge the mess my life had be.


    Casey''s jaw tightened when I didn''t answer, her anger ring hot. "Why the hell didn''t you call me? You can''t handle this shit by yourself!"


    I reached for her hand, my fingers trembling like they might break apart. When I grabbed hold, the tears came, raw and relentless, flooding my eyes as I clung to her.


    Casey was my college roommate, my rock, the kind of friend who''d wade through hell with me and crack a joke on the way out.


    When the doc hit me with the news that my cancer was back, my gut screamed to call her. It was like a reflex, this desperate pull to hear her voice, but I mped it down


    hard.


    She was off in some far-flung country, pouring her soul into a major internationalpetition. Inside, it felt like I was splitting in two-aching for her to be there, yet sick at the thought of dragging her into my shitstorm.


    I tried to y it cool, shing a smile I hoped didn''t look as brittle as it felt. "Surgery''s in the bag. I''m fine, right?"


    She saw right through me, pinching my cheek with a smirk. "Goddamn, you look


    like death warmed over. Don''t force a smile if you ain''t feeling it."


    "Where the hell''s Jude?" she snapped, her voice sharp enough to cut ss.


    "What kind of lowlife bails on his wife''s surgery?"


    "If that bastard hadn''t fucked you over, you wouldn''t be in this mess," she kept on,


    her


    Chapter 7 Thick Skinned Bastard


    words wing at wounds I''d tried to bury. "And now he''s just... what? Off living like he''s got no cares in the world?"


    I''d heard this tirade a million times. I yanked at her sleeve to shut her up. "You''re here now, so do me a favor, yeah?"


    My hands moved on autopilot-pulling off my earrings, slipping the ring off my finger. Each motion felt like shedding skin.


    I nodded at the purse in the corner. ¡°Grab some random bag and dump everything from that purse into it. Then sell it all. Purse, ring, earrings. The works."


    "That bag set me back 25 grand," I said, my voice t, like I was reading a grocery list. Find someone who''s not gonna screw me over. The ring and earrings? Probably worth dick-all."


    My fingers grazed the pendant at my neck, and I froze. I couldn''t do it-couldn''t tear it off.


    Jude might be a heartless prick now, but back then? He was my sun, the one thing that made the world feel right. That memory was a ghost I couldn''t shake, wrapping around my heart even as I tried to smother it.


    But one thing was non-negotiable: I needed cash. A shit-ton of it. And I''d rather sell my soul than crawl to Jude for scraps. This was on me to fix.


    The surgery went off without a hitch, but the real kicker wasing-chemo, injections, bills that''d make my head spin.


    I''d already done the math: if divorce was on the table, the jewelry at home was mine to take. Legally untouchable. If it came to it, I''d smash that ss disy case to splinters.


    Let Jude call the cops if he wanted to y hardball. I''d checked-family drama like that wouldn''t get me locked up.


    Casey''s face was all worry, her brow knotted tight. She tried to shove the ring back into my hand. "I''ve got money. Take it. You need it."


    1 shook my head, stubborn as a brick wall, and pushed it back. "This shit''s all from Jude. I''m done carrying it around. Sell it."


    I grabbed her arm, giving it a shake that felt more like a plea. "Come on, Casey. Please."


    She opened her mouth, probably to argue, but bit it back. Without a word, she turned and started packing up the purse.


    She didn''t drag her feet. Next afternoon, she was back with the cash. "Got 20 thousand," she said, wiring it over. Her eyes wouldn''t meet mine, darting away like she was hiding something.


    I knew well most of that money was hers, not from some buyer. I didn''t call her


    out, but my brain was already scheming.


    Once I cracked open that jewelry case at home, I''d snag the two most obnoxiously


    Chapter 7 Thark Skunoad Eastant


    expensive bags for her-something to make her light up like she deserved.


    I was halfway through picturing Casey''s face when she saw those bags, when my


    phone buzzed, Jude''s name burned into the screen.


    I tapped ept, and his voice roared through like a damn grenade. "Ada, you out


    here


    fucking off and still think you deserve a paycheck? Got some serious balls, huh?"


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 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8 Done ying Nice


    "Oh? You''re one to talk, Jude. Ditching work to fuck around with your fling? I wouldn''t dream of stealing your crown, ''I shot back.


    I knew the score the moment he opened his mouth. The client had finally hunted him


    down.


    From what I recalled, we''d locked in those project designs months back. So if they were blowing up my phone now, it had to be about revisions.


    I''d been the one calling the shots back then-until I was half-dead, too fucked up to care about deadlines.


    Was it Vivian keeping his bed warm back then? Or some other nobody? Didn''t matter. He''d had someone, so I''d been as good as invisible.


    He''d pawned off my project to another team and, for shits and giggles, told finance to torch my paycheck.


    Yeah, I used to get paid for my work. Now? Zilch.


    He probably thought I''de crawling back, begging for his table scraps.


    Big mistake. I wasn''t built to beg-not when I was in the right.


    Back when we were just dating, he couldn''t outtalk me in a fight. Now, even with my body falling apart, my brain was still a goddamn machine.


    He was outssed, and he knew it.


    I kept going, "So the deal tanks, and youe slinking to me? What am I, your fucking backup n? Only worth a damn when you''re screwed?


    "You can''t handle one shitty project? Gotta beg me to bail your ass out?


    "Or what, you''re lost without me? Spare me the sob-story crap.¡±


    I''d been feeling strongertely-less like a ghost. The cash for my meds helped, too. It lit a fire under me.


    The night before, I''d done some digging. Turned out, if I cracked his safe and took everyst penny, it wouldn''t even be a crime.


    No prenup, ever. Though I''d spent years just coasting, half his fortune was mine byw.


    Worst case? I''d be "vandalizing my own stuff." Good luck getting the cops to care


    about that.


    So, what was my choice? Let this disease chew me up and spit me out, or deal with


    his bullshit?


    The second one was a cakewalk. At least I''d still be breathing.


    That thought made my voice sharper, louder. I wasn''t backing down.


    Chapter 8 Done ying Nice


    Jude hadn''t seen thising-not after three years of me swallowing my pride. For once, he was tongue-tied.


    I was done wasting my breath on him and went to hang up.


    But then his cold, snideugh cut through the line. "Well, fuck me-there''s the real you. Finally dropped the mask, huh? Gotta say, I thought you''d y the saint a bit longer.


    "You even spun that sob story about being in the hospital, fishing for sympathy. Shit, Ada, you''re a pro."


    "Jude, I am in the hospital," I snapped before I could stop myself.


    Instant regret. No way he''d buy it. And, sure enough, hisugh got louder, slicing through me like a de.


    He said, "Save the Oscar-worthy act, Ada. I called the doctor. One stitch. One fucking stitch. You call that a hospital stay?


    "You really think a little boo-boo''s gonna make me drop everything and cry for you? Keep dreaming, princess."


    I shut my eyes, pain blooming in my chest like an old bruise ring up. Vivian got


    a scratch, and it was a full-blown emergency-doctors, nurses, the whole circus.


    Me? One stitch, and it was nothing. A fucking footnote.


    Why didn''t he ask the doctor what was really going on? Why didn''t he wonder why I


    was in oncology, of all ces?


    Why didn''t he question why the cops were the ones calling him, not me?


    Because he didn''t give a shit. That''s why.


    To him, I was just milking one stupid stitch to guilt him into ditching his precious deal and ying hero.


    Oh, and apparently making Vivian''s allergies re up because, sure, that was my fault


    too.


    I dragged in a breath, forcing my voice t. "Whatever. I''m hitting the hay, then. Gotta chase those dreams, right?"


    He fucking exploded. "Don''t you fucking hang up on me!" he bellowed. "This project''s been your baby from day one. You''re not bailing now-you''re fixing this shit."


    "I''m out," I shot back and mmed the call dead. His high-and-mighty tone made my


    skin crawl.


    Not even ten minutester, my phone lit up again. By the third ring, I was ready to lose


    1. it.


    I grabbed it and yelled, "Jude, what''s your fucking deal? I said I''m out-why the hell are you still bugging me?"


    The aide nearby swooped in, fussing like I''d rip my stitches just from shouting. Jude


    Chapter 8 Done ying Nice


    muttered some curse under his breath-couldn''t catch it, didn''t care.


    Then his voice turned cold as ice. "You kicked off this project, Ada. You''re seeing


    it through. No fucking debate."


    Yelling it out felt like shaking off a weight, though. I could breathe easier, think clearer.


    He wasn''t wrong-the project was mine from the jump. The hard part was mostly done; it was just dotting i''s and crossing t''s now. And sticking with it meant money. Money meant I wasn''t drowning yet.


    And sticking with it meant money. Money meant I wasn''t drowning yet.


    I let a few seconds pass, then said, "Alright, what''s the payout? You stiffed me on thestmission, remember?"


    Last time, I didn''t finish the job, so they yanked my cut. Shitty move, but I got it.


    "Ada," he hissed, venom dripping from every syble, "is that all you''re about now? Fucking money? What, cash is your whole damn world, Ada?"


    I could see him in my head, jaw locked, teeth grinding so hard he''d probably need


    crown.


    He always got like that when I pushed his buttons, spitting my name like it left a


    bad


    taste.


    I didn''t flinch. ¡°Yup. Pretty much. What else is there?"


    Money was my lifeline-in and simple. With it, I had a shot at keeping my head


    up. Without it, I was fucked, staring down a slow, ugly end.


    If money didn''t matter, what did? Him? That thought almost made meugh, bitter


    and


    sharp.


    I closed my eyes, waiting for his next move. A whole minute dragged by, each second heavier than thest, before he finally growled, "Fine. You''re so obsessed with cash? You get the whole damnmission."


    Relief hit me like a warm tide, washing away some of the dread. I couldn''t resist onest poke. "And my base pay. Don''t forget overtime."


    "Every fucking penny!" he roared, then mmed the call dead.


    For the first time in what felt like forever, I felt... unburdened. Almost good.


    Hell yeah. With thatmission in my pocket, I could hold off on smashing cabs


    to make ends meet for a while.

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9 Pay For Your Sins


    I''d taken the job, so no use screwing around. Money talked, and I needed it bad.


    The surgery had knocked me t, left me weak as a kitten, but my brain hadn''t gone to shit just yet.


    When I called Ellen Potter, her voice wobbled like she was one sniff away from a


    meltdown.


    "Ada! Jesus, you''re finally calling! I thought you''d fucking bailed on me!" she blubbered.


    Ellen was my intern find fromst year, now my full-time assistant. A little all over the ce, sure, but real as theye and dedicated.


    The best part? She could handle the soul-crushing silence of design work, those long stretches where it''s just one and the nk page. She was born for it.


    When I''d walked away from thepany, I''d made sure someone had her back, but from the sound of it, things weren''t exactly sunshine and rainbows.


    I cleared my throat, trying to sound like I had my shit together.. "Grab the old Bright Group proposal and blueprints. Bring them to me."


    She paused, voice shaky. "Ada, didn''t you ditch that project? If I go poking around for those files, they''ll probably tell me to fuck off."


    "Just say Jude''s the one asking. And tell HR I''m working from home for a bit. You''re back as my assistant, got it?"


    If I was wading back into this mess, I needed my own squad. No more flying solo like some stubborn idiot.


    And honestly? I might have to keep grinding just to afford my next hospital bill. Work or die, that was the deal now.


    When Ellen showed up at the hospital, she looked like she''d been hit by a truck. "Ada... you... tumor? Hospital?" she choked out, eyes like saucers.


    I stretched out a trembling hand. "Files. Gimme."


    "Chill, the surgery went fine. I''m not keeling over yet," I said, faking a grin.


    Yet. That word hung in my head like a guillotine. This thing coulde back swinging,


    and I knew it.


    All I had was today, and I''d damn well make it count-starting with stacking cash to keep breathing.


    Ellen was a hot mess, tears streaming as she thrust the files and a beat-upptop


    at


    1. me.


    "Figured you didn''t have one, so use mine," she mumbled, scrubbing at her face. "But, like, how the hell are you supposed to design shit from a hospital bed? Mr. Carson''s


    Chapter 9 Pay for Your Sins


    such a goddamn asshole!"


    She got louder, spitting venom.


    Word was, Jude had ditched everything to y house with Vivian. Diving in crystal waters, sipping cocktails on fancy cruises-Vivian was blowing up her Instagram with those desperate ten-photo carousels every day, acting like she was starring in some cheesy rom.


    "You''re stuck in this hellhole, and he''s out there dicking around with his


    sidepiece?" Ellen fumed. "Men are fucking garbage!"


    I smacked her head lightly with my pen. "Pump the brakes, kid. Not all guys suck-


    just Jude''s a special kind of scumbag."


    She choked back a sob, then bolted out to buy half a fruit market. When she


    came back, she managed a wobbly smile, but every time she looked at me, her eyes


    screamed she was holding something in.


    "Ellen, you''ve butchered this apple to hell," I said, staring at the pathetic core she''d whittled down to nothing.


    She nced at it, sheepish, and took a bite. "Shit, my bad. I''ll hook you up with a better one. This was just practice."


    Then she got real quiet. "Ada, aren''t you, like, pissed? You and Mr. Carson-are you guys done? Like, divorce-level done?"


    My pen stopped dead. Divorce? The word hit like a punch I didn''t seeing. My chest tightened, and I stared at the files in myp, willing them to give me an


    answer.


    Cold logic told me to get the divorce.


    We''d racked up a fortune together, and I wasn''t some gold-digger-I''d just take what I needed to keep the hospital from hounding me.


    But my stupid heart wouldn''t budge. Jude could treat me like garbage, but he was still the only one who''d ever burrowed into my soul and stayed there.


    Fuck, why couldn''t I shake him? He was off living his new life, and was still chained to feelings he would never even notice.


    I caught my reflection in the hospital window and let out a dry, bitter chuckle,


    shaking my head. Look at this wreck of a body. What was the point ofying my heart bare? Even if I tried, he''d just brush me off like lint.


    I thrust the dog-eared files at Ellen, my voice clipped. "Fix these sections, and don''t half-ass it. Someone upstairs is sniffing around the Bright Group project, and we''re not gonna be the ones who screw the pooch."


    "I''m out ofmission for designing full-time, so you''re stepping up," I added. "My office in design should still be empty. Take it over, but zip your lips about me beingid up here."


    214


    Chapter 9 Pay For Your Sins


    Ellen clutched the files like they''d save her life, her eyes wide as dinner tes. "Even from Mr. Carson? He''s in the dark, right?"


    "He knows," I said, my voice t as a board as I snapped myptop shut. "No need to stir that pot."


    I''d told him! was checking into this ce, but he probably thought I was pulling some drama-queen stunt. I wasn''t about to beg him to give a damn.


    Ellen loitered like she was glued to the spot, dragging it out for another half hour until a nurse finally gave her the boot.


    But right as she hit the doorway, she spun around and shoved her phone in my face, practically vibrating with outrage.


    "Ada, I know you''re above this shit, but Jude''s gone fucking nuclear," she spat. "That money''s half yours, right?


    "How''s he blowing hundreds of thousands on a goddamn apartment for that tramp Vivian? 650 grand, minimum!""


    I nced at her phone, and there it was: Vivian''s Instagram, screaming smug vibes.


    A sleek loft, all warm lights and plush furniture-not some impulse purchase, that''s


    for


    sure.


    The caption was like a kick to the teeth: "Our cozy little love nest." And in one shot, clear as day, was Jude''s profile, caught midugh.


    "Get back to work," I mumbled, my voice barely holding together. "That''s what matters."


    I sank into the bed, a sharp pain slicing through my chest. 650 grand? Jude was throwing cash at his mistress like she was his soulmate.


    Was he really gone for her? Head-over-heels, write-her-a-love-song gone? The thought burned, a slow, ugly fire in my gut.


    Then I saw my mom''s face-her final days in that dingy rental, her frame so frail it barely dented the mattress.


    Mrs. Watson, once the life of every party, reduced to a ghost in a closet-sized apartment with nothing but a lumpy bed.


    She''d wanted onest look at our old vi, but we didn''t have a dime. I''d choked down every shred of dignity and begged Jude, clinging to the faint hope our marriage meant something.


    And what did I get?


    "You and your pathetic mom don''t deserve a fucking cent," he''d sneered. "You''re


    lucky I haven''t cut you offpletely. You''ve got debts to pay for your sins."

 Chapter 10

    Chapter 10 Actually Make It


    Getting back to work had me feeling like I''d wed my way out of a fog, like I was finally firing on a few cylinders again.


    The cherry on top? Actual money hitting my bank ount.


    Yesterday, finance-out of the blue-slid a full month''s base sry my way. 6.5 thousand dors. To me, that was like finding a leprechaun''s stash.


    I didn''t bother overthinking why they''d pay me that much for three days'' work. Jude''s loaded; he wouldn''t blink at a few bucks missing.


    I slung half the money to Casey without a second thought. She was busting her hump, dragging fancy meals for two to the hospital every single day. That''s no walk in the park.


    Sure, she pulled a decent sry, but taking care of her grandma and me? That was a juggling act from hell.


    Too bad she wasn''t biting. When she stormed my room, she tore into me like I''d spit in her coffee.


    "What''s this bullshit? You tossing scraps at a bum? You think my cooking''s some cheap-ass takeout anybody can buy? Don''te at me with pocket change-try a couple million, then we''ll talk," she barked.


    I cradled my te, grinning like a total goof. "Casey, I''m back at it-got a paycheck and all. Pretty cool, right?"


    "Why''re you smiling like an idiot? You''re still half-dead-eat your food, for Christ''s sake. You''re gonna be the death of me," she growled, plopping a couple slices of grilled filet mignon onto my te.


    But when she turned away, I caught her wiping her eyes, thinking I wouldn''t see.


    I chowed down on the filet mignon, my throat tightening. Holy hell, her cooking was a straight-up massacre of good food.


    But each bite hit me hard, her care sinking deeper than the taste ever could. Once we''d stuffed ourselves silly, we fell into our usual banter.


    When Casey caught wind I was designing again, her face darkened, worry creasing her brow. "Your condition-doesn''t it mean you''re supposed to take it easy, not stress yourself to death?


    "You should be chilling, not killing yourself over work. And Jude-"


    His namended like a punch, and sessfully unlockedet, dodging the rest of that minefield.


    Jude was my personal ghost-always there, impossible to shake, a bruise I kept pressing on.


    Chapter 10 Actually Make it


    I flicked my hand like I didn''t give a damn. "Work keeps my head straight, and money keeps me grinning. Beats wasting away in this bed."


    "You know I''m a hot mess at everything else-design''s my one decent trick," I said, shrugging. "Maybe I''ll drop dead someday, but my buildings? They''ll still be out there, kicking ass."


    "Shut your fucking trap!" Casey snapped. "Don''t you dare talk that grim shit!"


    She was superstitious as theye, ring daggers until she was sure I hadn''t hexed myself. "Look, you gotta eat right-put some meat on those bones, get tough.


    "Food''s your new ride-or-die. I''m hauling it here every day, and you better keep it stocked when you''re out."


    I nodded quietly, but my brain was already crunching the math. The filet mignon cost more than my dignity. Why drop a fortune when eggs and milk get the job done?


    Still, with cash flowing in, I could at least keep the pantry stocked without having a panic attack.


    Maybe it was the boost in my headspace, but my body was rallying fast.


    I''d even wrapped up the design revisions before they let me out of the hospital, and it felt good to nail something again.


    Ellen came barreling into my room, grinning like she''d won the lottery. "Ada,


    you''re a goddamn legend! That revised n? Approved first try, no bullshit!


    "You don''t even know-the design crew''s been busting their asses for months, and those pricks kept shutting us down.


    "Everyone''s chomping at the bit for you toe back and run the show. So you better get yourself in gear and heal up!"


    She went on and on about how the team was lost without me, but I wasn''t born yesterday. I knew the truth, and it wasn''t so rosy.


    In the design department, I was like a fucking hurricane-wrecking everything in my path.


    Jude could never keep his personal crap out of the office. He was always fucking over the team just to get at me. If he hadn''t been such a colossal asshole, I wouldn''t have walked out back then with my head held high.


    Thest thing I wanted was to drag everyone else down with my drama-screw that


    noise.


    But now? Things had changed. First, I had to make sure I didn''t croak before I could even think about the rest.


    "Long as Bright Group''s on board, we''re good. This project''s a big fucking deal," I said, already tallying up mymission in my head.


    Should cover my meds for a solid six months. That little math problem had me smiling


    Chapter 10 Actually Make h


    -six more months of not kicking the bucket? I''d take it.


    "Yeah, but... they wanna meet, like, yesterday. In person, "Ellen said, her face scrunching up like she''d bitten into a bad apple.


    And there it was-the real reason she''d hightailed it here straight from work.


    The design was my brainchild, so naturally, I had to be the one to seal the deal. Anyone else might fuck it up and send us back to square one.


    I ran the numbers in my head and told her to book the meeting for three days out at the office.


    Three days wouldn''t derail the project, but for me? Those were gold. I needed to get the hell out of this hospital, go home, and just breathe for a minute.


    Man, I missed Toto. It''d been way too long since I''d hung out with that little fluffball.


    That night, the nurse showed me mytestbs before I hit the sack. I was bouncing back better than anyone expected-like I''d dodged death''s punch and lived to tell the tale. For the first time in forever, I felt like I might actually make it.


    Then, at some godforsaken hour past midnight, my phone started buzzing like a pissed-off ho. Jude, of course.


    Even on silent, the thing could wake aa patient. I dragged myself out of bed and shuffled to a dark corner of the hallway to answer.


    "Ada, what the fuck''s with scheduling Bright for three days from now?" he snapped. " You got any clue how huge this project is?


    "Why''s it so hard to meet them now? What''s with the fucking attitude? You really


    think thepany''s gonna grind to a halt without you?"


    His voice grated like sandpaper, and I just stood there, a bitter smirk tugging at


    my lips.


    Big project, huh? So big he couldn''t even pick up their damn calls?


    I propped the phone on the windowsill and stared out into the night. The hospital grounds were eerie as hell, all cold lights and shadows that made my chest feel hollow.


    A full minuteter, he finally noticed I hadn''t said jack. "Ada, you even there?"


    I snatched the phone back, my voice t as day-old soda. "You still in Sorene City?"


    Silence for a beat. Then I heard Vivianughing like a kid in the background. "Jude, check it out! I nabbed a little crab!"


    I nced at the phone, my stomach twisting. So that''s what they were doing- romping around catching crabs at midnight. Fucking adorable.

 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11 Just My Boss


    Jude must''ve stepped away, phone in hand, because his voice came through in a low growl. "I do whatever the hell I want, Ada. You don''t get to fucking babysit me."


    "Fine by me. Not my circus, not my monkeys," I said, voice t as a pancake.


    God, I was so over this dance with him. Done and dusted.


    I should''ve clocked it the first time he strolled in with some woman dangling off his arm like a trophy.


    But no, I was too busy being a sap, bawling into my pillow like my life was a damn tragedy.


    Nights were the worst-lying there, scripting how I''d bare my soul to him, every syble rehearsed, every pause timed.


    I was so fucking scared of wrecking him, of seeing those eyes go dim, of leaving him gutted.


    What a pathetic joke. It was obvious now: I was not worth a single tear in his world. So why drag up the truth? No use crying over spilled milk.


    Still, I must''ve poked the bear, because he was back at it, voice like a chainsaw. "What'' s with the snarky bullshit, Ada? You really think you''ve got the right to y judge and jury?


    "Let''s get this straight: everything in this ce? My cash. You don''t get to stand there acting like you own the damn joint.


    "And don''t even think about messing with Vivian. She''s not your average fling, so keep your ws off her.


    "Haul your ass back to the office, or I swear, you won''t see a fucking penny."


    I thought he''d m the phone down, but he didn''t. Stubborn bastard was holding the line, waiting for me to crack.


    After what felt like a century, I drawled, "Alright. But I''m billing you overtime, big shot."


    "Fuck''s sake, deal!" he snapped.


    The call cut off, but not before Vivian''s syrupy voice slithered through, purring, "Jude, baby."


    That name-it used to be mine, soft and special, just for us. Now it was hers, and it burned like cheap whiskey.


    I knew in my gut that Jude and Vivian weren''t just screwing around.


    Sessfully unlocked!


    He was parading her through the office like she was royalty, the two of them glued together like a bad rom.


    She was sshing it all over Instagram, each post a middle finger aimed right at


    me.


    My heart gave a weak little lurch-until my phone pinged. Three grand for overtime. wired straight to my ount.


    Poof, the hurt vanished like smoke. If I could just treat him like my boss, maybe 1 wouldn''t feel like I was drowning.


    Then he saw id grabbed the cash in a hot second and sent a voice message long enough to choke a horse.


    1 didn''t even hit y-just switched my phone off. Why waste my time? I could recite his crap word for word.


    Same old song, year after year, painting me as the money-grubbing bitch. So what was the crime in taking what was offered?


    The day I got out of the hospital, Casey was stuck jetting off for work. She kept pushing to have her folks drive me home, but I dodged, saying a coworker was on


    it.


    I even staged a quick selfie with an Uber guy to shut her up. Worked like a charm.


    When I finally limped back to my ce, I heard Toto''s whiny yips.


    My neighbor, Mary Carter, sweet as pie, flung her door wide. "Oh, honey, you''re home! You''re holding up okay, yeah?*


    She swiped at a tear and took my hand, her grip warm and steady. "Dear, girl, you''re all skin and bones."


    "Hey, skinny''s where it''s at," I teased, giving her hand a squeeze. "Saves me sweating it out at the gym, right?"


    Her kindness, so real and effortless, thawed the ice in my chest. Toto was going nuts, circling me like I was his whole universe, tail wagging so hard it could''ve powered a jet.


    Mary kept yelling at him, "Slow down, goofball, she''s not strong enough for your tackle hugs!" So he just kept looping, too hyped to chill.


    I dropped to my knees, and Toto''s tail went full-on helicopter. I hugged his big, slobbery head, and for the first time in forever, a real smile spread across my face.


    "Jude, Jesus Christ, that dog''s a fucking beast-scares the shit outta me!"Vivian''s piercing scream made me jump and set Toto barking like crazy.


    I stood there, watching them roll up with their matching couple''s luggage, decked


    out


    in tacky coordinated outfits. How did I end up here, staring at the wreckage of my life? My gut twisted, a bitter cocktail of fury and heartbreak wing at me.


    Jude gave me a once-over, his frown deepening. "Damn, Ada, you''re wasting away. What''s the deal?"


    "None of your goddamn business," I snapped, my voice sharp enough to cut ss.


    I crouched to stroke Toto''s head, murmuring for him to cool it.


    Wan, quivering like shed seen a ghost, ducked behind Jude. "Jude, you swore you''d pend of that mut Why''s it still here?"


    She kept up her pathetic act. "My allergies are finally clearing up, Jude. Can''t we just dson the damn thing?


    "You heartless fucking slut-say that again, I dare you!"I nted myself in front of Toto, my stare boring into Vivian like aser.


    This bich stole my guy and now wanted to ughter my pet? Over my cold, dead body. My blood boiled


    Toto caught her malice and my anger, going ballistic, his barks echoing my rage.


    Jude pulled Vivian into his chest, ring at me like I was the viin. "What''s your fucking problem, Ada? Since when do you swear like a goddamn trucker? You''re losing


    Losing it? She fucking earned that!" I fired back, my voice sharp enough to cut ss. "Touch one hair on my dog, and I swear you''ll regret ever crawling into my life, you pathetic leech. Try me, bitch!"


    My Chest heaved so violently it felt like my heart might burst, the old wound in my side tmopping, stealing my breath.


    Jude took a step toward me, but Viviantched onto him like a barnacle. "Jude, she''s muts! That dog''s a fucking menace!


    Big dogs like that aren''t even allowed in the city, right? Let''s call the cops-don''t they


    Outdown rapid munts?"


    the voice shook like she was scared, but that smug glint in her eyes was pure venom.


    That''s when it mmed into me like a sucker punch. Dog allergies? Afraid of Toto? Fucking les


    She knew Toto was my whole world, and she wanted to rip him away just to twist the knife in deeper


    This brch thought she could break me? She was about to learn I didn''t crack-l fucking shattered shit.


    thrust Totos leash into the neighbor''s hands and, channeling every ounce of fury in wwems, yanked Vivian toward me.


    Crack-Crack-


    Those two psnded like lightning bolts, her cheeks swelling red in seconds.


    Ste lunged at me, ws out, but Jude shoved me back before she could touch


    me.


    Ada, what the-fuck!"


    A vicious stari ripped through the air. Toto broke free,unching himself at Jude and smking his teeth deep into the arm that''d pushed me, mping down hard.

 Chapter 12

    Chapter 12 Just Call It Quits


    "Toto! Let him go, now!"Pain stabbed through me like a knife, but I held onto Toto with every ounce of strength I had left.


    He only eased up when he heard my voice, though he kept baring his teeth at Jude, a low growl rumbling in his chest.


    "Jude, fuck, you''re bleeding bad!"Vivian flung herself at him, acting like he was one step from the grave.


    She wasn''t exaggerating-his arm was shredded, blood dripping down in ugly streaks. Toto had gone for broke.


    Jude''s gaze flicked to me, cold and piercing. Toto lunged again, and it took me and Mary both to yank him back, barely keeping him in check.


    "Vivian, let''s roll."Jude gave me onest look-hard, loaded, like it carried a thousand unsaid things-then slung his arm around Vivian and walked out.


    I didn''t loosen my grip on Toto until the elevator doors nged shut. Then my legs gave way, and I hit the floor like a sack of bricks.


    My surgical wound had torn wide open. Blood soaked my shirt, a crimson bloom spreading across my chest, hot and terrifying.


    Mary went into full-on panic mode. She dropped to her knees, hands trembling like leaves. ¡°Ada, oh God, you okay? That''s too much blood! I''m calling 911-hang on, honey, don''t you dare lose it!"


    Toto whimpered, shoving his nose against me, frantic.


    I reached up, my hand shaky as hell, and patted his head. "I''m okay, buddy. Don''t be scared. Mommy''s not going anywhere."


    But his big, ssy eyes held my reflection-face white as death, lips drained of color. In that moment, I was sure it was over. The kind of sure that gripped my chest, made my pulse skipped.


    The hospital was a blur. The doctor came charging in, pissed off and worried all at


    once.


    It was his day off, but he''d raced back when he got word I was back in their hands.


    "Ada, what the actual hell?" he snapped, voice sharp but eyes soft with concern. "I told you to take it easy.


    "You''re a goddamn fighter-two surgeries, and you didn''t flinch. So why are you hell-bent on screwing yourself over?"


    Sessfully unlocked!


    The nurse nearby swiped at her tears, trying to y tough. "You pull this mess again, we''re washing our hands of you, got it?"


    I mustered a weak grin. She was still about as threatening as a teddy bear.


    Chapter 12 Just Call It Quits


    I nodded anyway, keeping the peace.


    They patched me up-stitches, antibiotics, the works. I was starting to feel halfway


    human when the doctor pushed me to stay for observation.


    Then my phone buzzed. The cops.


    I could hardly wrap my head around it when they told me. Vivian and Mary had gotten into a full-on brawl-over Toto, of all things.


    I hauled myself to the station as fast as I could. Mary looked like she''d been through a tornado-hair a tangled mess-but she clutched Toto''s leash like it was herst stand.


    She said loudly, "Nobody''sying a finger on this dog! We''ve got every fucking paper squared away!"


    Vivian stood opposite, face twisted into a sneer. "Papers? Who gives a flying fuck? Psychos have IDs too-doesn''t mean they don''t get what''sing!


    "Officers, that mutt''s a goddamn menace. It mauled someone-put it down!" "Vivian, those ps didn''t teach you shit, did they?"I caught her off guard and shoved her hard, watching her stumble like the coward she was.


    The cops swooped in to break it up, but when they saw me-pale as a corpse, barely standing-they didn''t push too hard.


    Aran a hand over Dodger''s head, fighting to keep my voice even. "Officers, he''s my dog.


    Got all his shots, all his papers. He''s not some rabid beast."


    "No fucking way!" Vivian spat, eyes zing with hate. "That thing''s unhinged-it bit someone!"


    She shrank behind a cop when I turned her way, like I was the one about to snap.


    The officers exchanged a tired look, clearly sick of this shitshow. "If it bit someone-"


    "Then ask why," I cut in, sharp. "Ask who he bit."


    The female cop leveled a no-nonsense stare at me. "Her boyfriend. Got photos to back it up."


    "That''s my husband," I snapped, loud enough to make every busybody in the room whip their heads around.


    God, there was a time I''d have died before making a scene like this. I used to be the girl who''d blush and bite her tongue, too scared of what people might think to stand up for herself.


    But now? This wasn''t just about me anymore-it was about Toto, the one piece of my life that hadn''t turned on me:


    No way was I gonna throw down in a police station, though. So I let my knees buckle, sinking to the floor next to Toto, my body slumping like it was giving up.


    Pitiful? Sure. But what''s more heart-wrenching than a woman ground into the dirt


    by


    Chapter 17 Ju


    her cheating husband''s mistress, now fighting to save her dog?


    "Officers," I said, my voice quivering just enough to hit the right note, "my husband brought his little side chick home. They were gonna kill my dog.


    "Toto only bit him because that woman wasing for me, and my husband-he got rough with me.


    "Yesterday, my neighbor had to call an ambnce for me. You can check the hospital records-they''re still there."


    If they thought they could y the delicate damsel card, I''d show them I could work that angle too.


    Twist the truth just enough to make it sting? I''d gotten damn good at that.


    And the best part? Every word I said was the honest-to-God truth. Jude had gotten physical. I had been hauled off in a screaming ambnce.


    A shove? A hit? Let the gossips fill in the nks-I didn''t care, as long as it kept Toto safe.


    I wrapped my arms around Toto, his soft, desperate whimpers ripping through me like a de. It was like he could feel the weight of this moment, like he knew we were one wrong word away from losing everything.


    The crowd started buzzing, throwing shade at Vivian with their whispers and pointed


    stares.


    Even the cops who''d been eating up her sob story earlier were giving her the side-eye now, their trust in her unraveling. She squirmed under the scrutiny, her smug little act cracking like cheap ss.


    At that moment, Jude strode into the police station.


    His right hand was still wrapped in gauze, a clumsy reminder of whatever mess he''d gotten into.


    He took one step toward me, like he might actually give a damn and help me up, but Vivian pounced like a cat on a mouse, tugging him to her side with a grip that screamed mine.


    "Jude, oh my God, are you okay?" she whined, her voice all sugar and panic, like she was auditioning for a soap opera. "The doctor told you to chill, didn''t they?"


    He melted under her gaze, his eyes soft as he ruffled her hair like she was some precious kid. "Hey, dummy, what''re you doing waltzing into a shithole like this alone?"


    "That jerk who hurt you," she stammered, her voice dropping to this pitiful little quiver," I had to call the cops, Jude-


    She cut herself off, flicking her eyes at me-meek, nervous, a far cry from the smug bitch she''d been ten minutes ago.


    My stomach twisted into knots. Always the same act-poor, helpless Vivian, clinging


    Chapter 12 Just Cat (uts


    to him like a kicked puppy. She got him wrapped around her finger, and she knew


    it.


    Jude hushed her with a few sweet nothings, his voice so tender it made my skin crawl, before he finally bothered to nce my way.


    "Ada, it''s a goddamn dog," he said, like I was blowing this out of proportion. "Put it out of its misery, and we''re done with this shitshow. Why the hell are you making this so fucking messy?"


    Someone in the corner scoffed, barely loud enough to hear, spitting out "scumbag lovers" like a curse. Jude''s face darkened, his jaw clenching like he was chewing


    on


    nails.


    "Ada, you listening or what?" he barked, his voice slicing through the air, sharper now, impatient.


    I raised my head, pasting on a smile that felt like it was carved from broken bottles. So this was how it ended, huh? He picked her-always-and I was just the idiot who didn''t


    see it sooner.


    "Then let''s get a divorce," I said, my voice steady even as my heart screamed. "I''ll grab Toto and fuck off for good. You two can y your little ''love story without me screwing it up."

 Chapter 13

    Chapter 13 A Better Life


    "Ada, what the hell did you just say? One more time!" Jude''s voice cracked like a whip as he shook off Vivian''s grip and charged toward me, his face a storm of rage and disbelief.


    Toto let out another low growl, hackles up, and the cops jumped in quick, yanking Jude back before he could get any closer.


    I swiped at my stinging eyes, locking on him with an icy re. "I said divorce, dumbass. You got wax in your ears or what?


    "We''re standing in a fucking police station, and it''s crystal clear we''re done. No love, no nothing. Let''s just cut our losses and move on.


    "Divorce. I take Toto, and you can have your little sidepiece move in, no problem."


    Tears burned tracks down my face, and I couldn''t tell if I was putting on a show or if my heart was actually splintering. Was I acting? Or was this raw, ugly pain real? My chest felt like it was caving in, and I didn''t know if I was mourning him or just the version of us I used to believe in.


    Something shed in Jude''s eyes-guilt, maybe, or a ghost of the man I once loved- but it vanished fast, swallowed by that same old temper.


    "You''re seriously throwing us away over a goddamn dog?"demanded Jude. "What, I


    mean that little to you? Less than some flea-bitten mutt?


    "Fuck it, I''m ending that dog today, and nobody''s stopping me!"


    I threw my arms around Toto, holding him tight. Viviantched onto Jude''s arm, her eyes sparkling with sick glee."


    Jude, babe, chill. Why get worked up over a stupid animal?" she cooed, but the smirk she shot me was pure poison, sharp enough to cut.


    Mary hacked a loud, juicy spit onto the floor. "Fucking homewrecker," she muttered, loud enough for everyone to hear.


    "Jude, you blind or just stupid?" she barked. "Ada''s not torching your marriage over a dog, you idiot!"


    The police station was a circus-people milling around for their own dramas, others soaking up ours like it was a soap opera. The whispers started flying, hot and fast.


    "This dude''s letting his mistress talk smack about his wife right in front of her? Yeah, divorce his ass."


    "Big tough guy picking on a dog? Total loser vibes. Bet he''s the type to throw punches at home."


    "Girl, if he''s that bad, just sue him."


    The crowd was turning into a lynch mob, and the cops weren''t having it. They herded


    us into a back office, trying to dis down the cws


    I knew how this yed out same old "domestic disputer bust. Jude was a sleaze, sure, but he wasn''t getting more than a step on the wrist


    Then I caught a young cop darting over, muttering something to the others. Their eyes flicked to Jude, and their faces changed way, semost spooked.


    Of course, Jude, the untouchable heir to the Carson dynasty, Gross him, and you were screwed. Nobody was dumb enough to try


    Sure enough, the cops gave him a half-assed lecture about ''Yeeping things civil and called it a day. No charges, no nothing. Just another messy day swept under the rug As we headed out, a young female officer caught my eye, her face soft but troubled," Family stuff''s a nightmare to sort out, she said quietly, "But... if is bad enough, maybe think about taking it to court."


    She didn''t push, but her words hit me hard. It was the most she could do, and I felt a flicker of gratitude for it.


    I gave her a small nod, grabbed Toto''s leash, and walked out with Mary, leaving Jude and his whole circus in the dust.


    Outside the precinct, Vivian was draped over Jude''s arm, her voice all syrupy with fake worry, "Jude, oh my God, your wound''s split open-it''s bleeding""


    I nced at the measly smear of blood on his arm. Fucking please. I''d spilled more yesterday without anyone blinking. Why was she acting like he was one stubbed toe away from the grave?


    I rolled my eyes, didn''t bother with them, and started walking


    "Ada, don''t you dare walk away from me! Jude''s voice cracked like a whip, all bossy and pissed.


    I didn''t break stride. Toto hesitated, ears twitching like he might look back, but I gave him a light tap.


    "Ignore that asshole, Toto. What, you wanna let him screw you over too?" said.


    He whimpered softly, rubbing his head against my leg, those big eyes begging me to make it okay.


    I scratched behind his ears and kept moving. I was done turning back for that lowlife.


    Not today, not fucking ever-at least, that was what I swore to myself right then.


    Jude''s boots hit the pavement behind me, chasing. Toto stiffened, ready to go full guard-dog mode.


    But then Vivian''s whiny voice cut in, right on schedule. "Jude, babe, I think I''m, like, allergic again. It''s so freaking itchy."


    Mary, hovering nearby, gave me a concerned look. I just shook my head and gged a


    214


    Realenient, Vivian. Not a single itch the whole time we were stuck in that precinct, but now? Her skin''s as delicate as her goddamn lies.


    Back home, Toto tried to follow me inside, but I nudged him back gently.


    Way stood there, her face all twisted up with hesitation. "Ada, my son''s got a ce in Kasend now. He''s pushing me to move out there with him."


    Why hand clenched around Dodo''s leash, fingers digging in. "Mrs. Carter, then what AL-WORds failed me.


    She''d already done way too much, more than any neighbor ever owed me.


    But if kept Toto with me? One day I was not home, and what then? He could get hurt.


    badly Or worse.


    Mary reached out, petting Toto''s head, then fixed her eyes on me, steady but soft. "I know he''s your heart, Ada. You''ve had him since he was a scrawny little thing, and with all the crap you''re wading through, you need someone in your corner."


    She sighed, deep and heavy. "But your husband... who knows when he''ll flip his shit and go after Toto. If you can handle it, let me take him.",


    stood there, frozen, my chest tight and throat locked. She didn''t have to do this- stick her neck out to save my dog-but she was, because she couldn''t stand the idea of him suffering.


    Mary didn''t press, just waited, letting me stew in my own head.


    Time crawled, and Toto''s quiet whimpers carved me open. I made my choice. "Mrs. Canter.. if you''re okay with it, would you take him? I''ll cover all his costs."


    Her eyes searched mine, gentle but piercing. "You sure you can let him go, sweetheart?"


    Il swiped at the tears stinging my face, nodding like my life depended on it. "Yeah.


    I''m


    sure.


    He''d be safer with her, have a real shot at a good life-better than anything I could give


    him now.


    That night, Toto and I went home together onest time. I cooked him a massive pot of dog food-my cooking was always garbage, but Toyo never gave a damn. He''d scarf it down like it was a five-star meal.


    Later, I curled up with him on the couch, face buried in his fur, tears soaking us both.


    "Toto, you''re about to be a world traveler, buddy. Most folks around here never even get a passport, and you''re off to the big leagues." My voice cracked, and I held him closet, like I could keep him forever if I just squeezed hard enough. "I''m giving you every scrap of luck I''ve got left, okay?


    "You gotta liverge, be happy, chase all the squirrels."


    34


    414


    Chapter 13 A Better Life


    I pressed my forehead to his, words barely making it out. "Once you''re gone, I''ve


    got nothing left they can break. No weak spots, no chinks in the armor. I''ll be


    fucking bulletproof, Toto. I''ll keep going, keep breathing, keep fighting-just to show I can."


    ȯ

 Chapter 14

    Chapter 14 Gut-Wrenching


    Mary hit me with the news the next morning-she''d taken care of all the paperwork. That was when it sank in: she was supposed to be gone by now.


    "Ada," she said, her voice gentle but firm, "I wanted to give you a heads-up sooner, but I didn''t want to screw with your recovery.


    "I went back and forth about Toto, you know? That''s why I got everything squared away-just in case you couldn''t handle him."


    Her son had been on her case to move to Kasend for ages, but she kept stressing about me and Toto.


    To get her out the door, her family dropped a small fortune.


    I tried to slip her some cash, but she just shook her head, giving me that look. "Kid, I know you''re barely getting by. Whole neighborhood knows who''s t broke. That''d be you."


    My face burned. My broke-ass existence was no secret around here¡ªeveryone had my number. Jude bringing women home? Yeah, that was old news too.


    To them, 1 was just a sad, sorry case, someone to cluck their tongues at. I never bothered hiding it, but I wasn''t about to broadcast my misery either.


    Probably only Jude thought he was some kind of hero, tossing me scraps most people couldn''t even dream of.


    At the airport, I stood frozen, staring at nes carving up the sky. I didn''t know where Toto was, but I told myself he''d be fine. He''d have a good life, a long one.


    When I got back to the apartment, it felt like walking into a tomb. No warmth, no nothing. Summer my ass-this ce was colder than a meat locker.


    The doctor''s voice nagged at me: eat better, pop your pills, get ready for chemo.


    I dragged myself to the kitchen and threw together some noodles, but they tasted like straight-up trash. I shoved the cup across the table, leaving it to fester.


    In my room, I copsed onto the bed, eyes tracing cracks in the ceiling. Work started tomorrow, I thought, grasping at straws. Maybe that would fill this hollowed-out void. At some point, I drifted off.


    Then Jude-smelling like a distillery-crashed onto me, yanking me awake.


    "Baby, what? You didn''t wait up?" he slurred, face mashed into my shoulder, whining like I''d stolen his favorite toy.


    I pushed against him, my wound sessfully unlocked! bulk, but he was a goddamn


    brick wall.


    "Christ, babe, you''re all bones now. You starving yourself or what?" he mumbled, totally clueless. "Saw those noodles you left out. Hell yeah, I demolished them. Tasted like


    beaver


    He kept vaperering, drunk off his ass. Got you cheese tarts wikshake, the good shit. Come on, get up, eat something. Gotta put some meat back on you


    He yanked at my arm, and I sucked in a breath as pain ripped through me. He stumbled to the door grabbed a crumpled bag, and wobbled back


    The second I saw the logo, my chest tightened, tears spilling before I could stop them.


    It was from that ce by our old school, the one we''d line up for like suckers. Never even tasted good-just dirt cheap.


    Back then, I''d always pick the cheapest thing to save him a couple bucks.


    He fumbled with the milkshake, cursing under his breath as he jammed the straw


    in, then held it to my lips like I was too weak to do it myself.


    I took a sip. Goddamn, it was disgusting-pure chemical sludge.


    But I smiled. A real smile, the kind that wed its way up from somewhere deep and left me raw.


    He set the milkshake down on the table, his fingers grazing my cheeks, wiping away tears with a gentleness that felt like it might unravel mepletely


    "Drink my milkshake, babe, and you''re mine. No more divorce crap, got it?" His voice carried a teasing lift, but there was a sharp undercurrent, like he was daring


    me to


    argue.


    He added, "Walk out on me? Who''s gonna hook you up with cheese tarts? Who''s gonna grab your precious milkshake, you goof?"


    I froze, staring at him, my thoughts a tangled mess. Was he hitting the bottle hard because I flung the word "divorce" at him back at the station?


    His kisses came down like a slow drizzle, tender but insistent, pulling me in. I went from dazed to ravenous, meeting his intensity with my own. My heart felt too full, like it was brimming with something molten and heavy, something I couldn''t grasp but craved to hold onto.


    He eased me onto the bed, his hand slipping beneath my shirt, searching with a quiet confidence that sent my pulse into overdrive.


    "No, Jude-stop it!" I shoved at him, panic crashing through me like a rogue wave.


    I couldn''t let him see the scars etched across my skin. I couldn''t stomach the thought of another sterile hospital room.


    He pulled back, his eyes clouded with confusion, then flicked to the pillow beside us. His brow furrowed as he plucked a single dog hair, holding it up like evidence, squinting at me.


    "Hey, babe," he said, "you good with allergies now? I''ll toss that damn dog out, and it''s just us. No distractions."


    Chapter 14 Gut-Wrenching


    My brain short-circuited. My blood turned to sludge in my veins. Dog allergies? That was not me, you idiot-that was Vivian.


    The realization hit like a sledgehammer, splintering everything.


    He leaned in again, but I pushed him off with every shred of strength I could muster.


    Crack! My palm stung as it connected with his cheek, the sound slicing through the air like a whip.


    His gaze turned to ice, pinning me in ce with a coldness that made my stomach


    lurch.


    I jabbed a trembling finger toward the door, my breathing in jagged gasps. "Get the fuck out, you asshole! Go!"


    He licked his lips, his eyes raking over me like I was something he''d scraped off his shoe. Then he stood, smoothing his shirt with a slow, calcted calm that made my skin prickle.


    "You think I give a shit about you? Wrong fucking girl." His voice was pure acid. "Look at yourself-fucking disgusting."


    He grabbed his jacket, shot a nce at the milkshake, and pitched it into the trash like it was garbage.


    The door mmed shut with a force that rattled my core, and only then did I let the sobs tear through me, raw and unstoppable.


    Jude, you absolute bastard.


    The next morning at the office, every stare felt like a spotlight on my wreckage.


    I hadn''t slept, and the weight I''d losttely left me looking like a hollowed-out


    shell.


    I knew I was a walking nightmare, but I had to keep moving. Even though I looked like death, I was still here, still fighting.


    Vivian strutted in mid-briefing, her heels clicking like she was the queen of the world.


    "Ada, sweetie," she purred, "Jude-oh, my bad, Mr. Carson-sent me to whip you all into shape."


    "You? Run us?" I shot her a look sharp enough to cut ss.


    She flipped her hair, all smug and untouchable. "Uh, yeah. I''m his assistant. I''ve


    got my hands in everything around here.


    "So, quit yapping. Bright Group''s people are about to show."


    "Ada, pull up that old creative pitch you did. I''m calling the shots in the meeting."


    Her voice dripped with fake sweetness, and it made my blood boil.

 Chapter 15

    Chapter 15 Pay Raise


    # Uwian finished speaking everyone paused what they were doing, their gazes shifting between the two of us


    Shen couldn''t stand it anymore and stepped right in front of me.


    "Theigh, you are just an assistant. You have no right to interfere with the design department night?" she retorted. And do you know how important this project is?"


    It''s not important, why am I here?" Vivian pushed Ellen aside and looked down at


    me


    "Ada, you just got back to thepany and don''t know much about the projects. Don''t just think about showing off.


    "You''re just an employee here. Just follow orders from your superiors. You need to straighten out your work attitude. She reached out to me, putting on a full-on boss


    But I ignored her and got up to head straight to the president''s office.


    In the office, several were giving their reports while I directly mmed onto Jude''s


    desk


    You''re letting Vivian lead the design department. Are you sure about that?" I questioned in anger.


    Vivian rushed in at that moment, looking pitifully at Jude. "Jude, Ada doesn''t want me to join the team and won''t give me the materials. The meeting''s about to start. What should I do?


    "If this coboration with Bright Group falls through, thepany will lose a lot of money. Can you take responsibility for that, Ada?" She sounded so wronged like I was really bullying her.


    I ignored her and looked straight at Jude, who waved his hand, and the others quickly left the office, afraid of getting caught in the crossfire if they stayed too long.


    Meanwhile, Jude just looked at me with a yful smile. "You haven''t been to thepany for months. While Vivian has been working hard all this time. What''s the problem with her leading you?


    "She''s going to be exposed to more work in the future, and the design department is just one aspect. You should take her under your wing and teach her seriously."


    I smirked. So, Vivian, an intern, wanted me to teach her? Like, we were not even in the


    same department, seriously?


    Sessfully unlocked!


    But thinking she had some big backer, Vivian rushed up and nodded


    enthusiastically. Jude, I''ll definitely study hard to be your right-hand woman!"


    I couldn''t be bothered with their little show, chiming in, "I''m the design director-l don''t


    Chaw & Pa Sase


    train interns. If you need me to teach her, it''s gonna cost ya. Pay me tuition."


    "What?" Jude mmed his hand on the table and stood up.


    But I just stared at him nkly and held out my hand. "Pay up, or find her a proper tutor with the HR."


    Jude kept saying "Well" over and over, then red at me. "Are you seriously all about the money?"


    "Yup." I pulled my hand back. "Or, like, give me a raise, ''cause my workload has basically doubled."


    Things were clear now-Jude and I were over. Money was the only thing holding us together now.


    Who knows, one day he might fire me, and besides trashing the furniture at home, I''d only be left with the option of getting a divorce.


    Jude just stared at me for like five minutes straight, not even responding when Vivian tried to talk to him.


    Finally, he gritted out, "Fine, you''ll get a raise."


    Instantly, I grabbed his phone and quickly dialed HR.


    "Mr. Carson? This is the HR department. What can I do for you?" the HR assistant asked.


    I smiled at Jude and whispered, "Some things gotta be done properly."


    I didn''t wanna be petty but he was no gentleman either. What if he didn''t pay?


    Jude yelled at the phone, "Promote Ada one level up and give her a raise!"


    Before he could finish, I grabbed my stuff and walked out.


    As I passed by Vivian, I kindly reminded her, "There''s a meeting soon.


    Vivian seemed caught off guard by my kind gesture momentarily.


    I was not sure what Jude had told her, but by the time she reached the conference room, her eyes were red-rimmed.


    I had Ellen organize the meeting materials and hand them directly to her. "Vivian,


    the other party will be here in half an hour. You''d better hurry."


    "Don''t you worry about me. I''m the assistant to Mr. Carson!" Vivian huffed as she took the documents and quickly jotted down notes.


    I didn''t know much about her capabilities, but I figured her eagerness to prove herself must mean she was not bad: Plus, she was so keen on making me look bad; she''d definitely put in a good show.


    To my disappointment, I overestimated her.


    I thought she would at least be professionally aligned. Having followed Jude for a


    few


    Chapter 15 Pay Raise


    months, she should be familiar with thepany''s various meetings.


    But she kept messing up even for a simple hosting role, eventually reading my documents.


    Still, she made countless mistakes, mispronounced several keywords, and had to ask Ellen to teach her the pronunciation.


    I was on pins and needles, ready to speak up several times but was cut off by her. "Ada, I''m hosting this meeting." She stared at me stubbornly, leaving me speechless.


    In the end, it was directly halted by the General Manager from Bright Group. "Sorry to interrupt, Mrs. Carson, but is this how the Carson Group coborates with us?


    "If Mr. Carson has no intention of continuing the cooperation, we can proceed with the liquidated damages now."


    The conference room was so quiet you could hear a hair drop, only interrupted by Vivian''s sniffles.


    She quickly stood up and bowed to Raymond. "Mr. Dunce, I''m sorry. The design department only gave me the materials today, so I''m not familiar with the project


    yet.


    "The materials Ada gave me were full of technical terms; I just wasn''t familiar with them."


    As soon as she finished, everyone looked at her in disbelief, wondering if she was out of her mind.

 Chapter 16

    Chapter 16 A Tight Ship


    "Since the Carson Group doesn''t seem to care about this coboration, I''ll take my leave. Mrs. Carson, remember to transfer thepensation, or I''ll see you in court!" Raymond was already pissed off.


    Meanwhile, Vivian was still trying to smear me. "Mr. Dunce, it''s not my fault. It''s all Ada''


    S.*


    I quickly stood up to apologize, "Mr. Dunce, there''s been a misunderstanding. The Carson Group takes this cooperation very seriously.


    "Vivian is Mr. Carson''s personal secretary and isn''t familiar with the project, but I can continue running the meeting.


    "You''ve seen my design ns; we indeed value our cooperation greatly."


    Raymond waved his hand dismissively. "No need, the Carson Group is out of our league. Let''s call it quits on this coboration."


    No matter how much I tried to keep him around, Raymond left with his people.


    Before he left, he gave me a long look. "Mrs. Carson, I know you''re going through a tough time, but you can''t ignore the coboration either.


    "This project has already been dyed for a long time; the Carson Group needs to give us an exnation.


    "With Mr. Carson treating us like this, it won''t be easy for me to exin when I go back.


    You decide what to do."


    Only at that moment did I realize that the Bright Group had already been unhappy with Jude''s attitude before.


    Today, it clearly showed Jude''s disregard for them by having an intern assistant run such an important meeting and her making mistakes.


    It wasn''t just about getting the project done; they also wanted mutual respect and a stance from the Carson Group.


    The Bright Group and the Carson Group weren''t just working together on one deal; if things got ugly between them, neither side would benefit.


    When I returned to the office, the Design Department was gloomy and everyone felt discouraged.


    I intended to say something encouraging but instead found Judeing straight in with Vivian.


    "Ada, it looks like you don''t want sessfully unlocked!e. How could you mess up such an important partnership?


    "Aren''t you in charge? What were you doing during the meeting?" As soon as Jude entered, he started berating me harshly.


    Chup a tigh She


    The others in the office didn''t dare move a muscle.


    Vivian was hiding behind him, sobbing softly. "Ada, if you didn''t want me to host, just say so early on. Why drag me into this?"


    "Drag you into this? You volunteered to host the meeting." I looked at her, utterly helpless.


    I couldn''t help but wonder if she really thought she was the female lead in a novel, standing up there as if blessed by god and able to dominate without any preparation. Clearly, she thought it was all my fault, retorting self-righteously, "If you hadn''t given me such professional design drafts, how could I have made mistakes?


    "Why can''t you give me something understandable to ordinary people? You knew! wasn''t from your field yet deliberately made things hard for me. Did you even consider thepany''s interests?"


    Her twisted logic truly opened my eyes. I used to know people had thick skin but never realized how scary it was when someone had no shame at all.


    Some were already muttering under their breath in the office.


    "Seriously? Hosting when you know you''re out of your depth? That''s a hot mess."


    "Who''s screwing whom here? The design department has been working overtime for so long, and now it''s all gone down the drain."


    "We didn''t even cry, yet here she is!" The design department was united against Vivian.


    Sensing the hatred, she shrank back behind Jude.


    Jude ignored what others said and just red at me in anger.


    "Ada, since something went wrong, as the project leader, you should take full responsibility. Fix it or face the consequences." With that, he left with Vivian. Ellen looked at me with concern. "Ada, Mr. Carson is too much. This isn''t your fault."


    I let out a sigh. It didn''t matter if it was my fault or not. If he said it was my fault then it was. But I didn''t want to take the fall for his little girlfriend.


    I gathered all materials and new design ideas and headed straight for Jude''s office.


    With Vivian out of sight, I walked right in.


    "You can''t knock?" Jude frowned at me as I ced all the materials on his desk. "This isn''t my fault. I''m not clearing up the mess. All the files are here." Hearing me, he raised an eyebrow and humphed, "Ada Watson, you''re in charge of the project. Are you gonna make Vivian responsible?"


    Calling his wife by her full name and his mistress so sweet-talk about favoritism.


    I rolled my eyes, questioning, "So you know it''s her fault and still want me to take the me?"


    Chapter 16 A Tight Ship


    "Or what?" He looked at me with an air of entitlement, as if it were his due. "I said Vivian is mine, so I''ll protect her. This time, you''ll take responsibility, Ada. If you can''t solve this, forget about yourmission."


    I opened my mouth but finally swallowed the curse. Since he was not reasonable, I''d make him to be. "Fairness and justice are paramount to the Carson Group. If you make me take responsibility today, it would undoubtedly dishearten the other employees."


    He raised an eyebrow at me, signaling me to continue.


    I smiled brightly at him, adding, "I''m in charge of the project, so of course, I''ll take responsibility. But if I have to take responsibility when it''s not my fault, mymission should go up by one point."


    "Ada!"


    The anger in Jude''s eyes made my smile even brighter. "Everyone needs to know


    Mr. Carson runs a tight ship-he''s all about ountability and doesn''t coddle


    anyone, especially me, his wife."

 Chapter 17

    Chapter 17 Dirty Slut


    Iid it all out, so naturally, Jude finally agreed, but not without a bit of a grumble.


    He cursed I was a miser


    I didn''t argue. After all, I had to live.


    Since I agreed to take responsibility, I had to find the head of the Bright Group first.


    He wanted respect, and I was willing to bow down for the project.


    Hearing through the grapevine that Raymond had a drinking session tonight, I quickly got changed and rushed over.


    When Raymond saw me enter the room, his expression darkened. ''Mrs. Carson, it''s not appropriate to chase us down like this. This is a private gathering."


    "I made you angry today, of course, I''de to apologize." I smiled as I poured myself a beer and finished it in one go.


    With my health, I shouldn''t drink, but today was different.


    Raymond wasn''t someone who would make things difficult for others. I was sure he wouldn''t penalize me over someone else''s mistake.


    Plus, their project couldn''t afford any dys.


    Sure enough, he frowned slightly. "Mrs. Carson, you''ve lost so much weight. For your health..."


    "That won''t do. We rarely get a beautiful woman here; she can hold her liquor. Why are you stopping her?" A man with a big belly stood up and gave me a lewd look.


    I rarely participated in these events and didn''t know who this guy was. But he seemed close with Raymond and might be somepany''s CEO too.


    Feeling somewhat embarrassed, Hooked at him, apologizing, "Sorry, but I''m not really good at drinking. And Mr. Dunce knows that I just got out of the hospital. If not for apologizing to Mr. Dunce today, I wouldn''t have drunk anything."


    What I said showed Raymond enough respect; his expression softened considerably.


    He sized me up before asking with furrowed brows, "You''ve lost too much weight. Were you very sick?"


    "I had surgery and indeed couldn''t drink alcohol. To make it up to you, I didn''t even dare to take my anti-inmmatory medicine today," I replied.


    "Well then, Mrs. Carson, don''t drink anymore. The business can be negotiated when we are back at the office." Raymo Sessfully unlocked!


    Instantly, I knew we''d got a deal today.


    He just wanted to see my attitude. After all, I was still the nominal Mrs. Carson.


    Chigner 17 Dety Sha


    But a few guys around me kept egging me on drinking, especially that fat guy,


    checking me out with lecherous eyes. "Mrs. Carson? Had surgery? Show me your scar, and I''ll let you go. Sound good?"


    With that, he tried to grab me, and I held back the urge to smash his head with a bottle, taking a step back.


    Suddenly, the door opened. Jude walked in with a poker face. "Which part of my wife do you want to see? Huh?"


    Raymond noticed Jude''s displeasure and quickly stepped in to smooth things over." They had too much to drink, Mr. Carson. Please don''t mind."


    "We''re just concerned about Mrs. Carson; she just got out of the hospital, right?" With his presence, the others sobered up instantly and kept apologizing to me.


    I quietly went behind Jude, listening as he dealt with them.


    In the end, he had a drink with Raymond and dragged me out.


    I only had one drink earlier, but I still felt a bit tipsy. When I got in the car, my chest started hurting again.


    Jude sat silently beside me, as cold as an iceberg, causing me to unconsciously shift a little further away.


    When we got home, he literally dragged me inside.


    I tossed my heels off and copsed on the sofa, feeling dizzy.


    He seemed to have stood at the door for a while before asking, "Where''s the dog?"


    I opened my eyes and looked at him; it was surprising he remembered Toto at all. "It''s been given away."


    "That''s joint property! You gave it away?" He looked annoyed at me.


    Refusing to see his angry face, I shielded my eyes with my hand. "I sold my ne to save it; it has nothing to do with you."


    All of a sudden, he grabbed my cor, only calming down after spotting the ne around my neck.


    "Are you out of your mind?" I shoved him away and went straight to the bedroom, having no clue what had set him off.


    After we got married, we only shared the bed for the first month. Then, he rarely came home, leaving the bedroom all to myself.


    But today, he was acting way off. He suddenly hugged me from behind and pinned me down on the bed.


    When he leaned in to kiss me, I instinctively turned my head, but he wasn''t letting go, forcing my head back brutally. "What''s wrong? Hospitalized? Injured? Not even willing to fulfill your wifely duties?"


    Chapter 17 Dirty Slut


    His hand brushed over my forehead before he let out a sneer. "Without even a scar to show for it, you just try to milk sympathy from men?"


    So, he still remembered when I hit my headst time. Too bad he didn''t bother checking my medical records.


    I looked at him coldly. "Don''t you want me to take responsibility for the project? I was cleaning up after your little girlfriend!"


    At the mention of Vivian, his eyes turned fierce, and he bit down hard on my lip.


    I tried kicking and pushing him away, but I was no match for him at all.


    "Why are you fighting against it? If I hadn''t shown up today, you''d probably end


    up in some guy''s bed right now. Don''t y the innocent!


    "You''ll do anything for money, huh? Dirty slut!"


    I paused for a moment, then started pounding on his chest with all my strength.


    Unfortunately, my strength was too weak; it was like just tickling him.


    In the end, I just gave up and smiled at him instead. "Exactly, your wife being


    forced to clean up after your mistress-isn''t that just a free pass for anyone to sleep around?


    What''s wrong with being a slut? It''s not me who should feel ashamed."


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 Chapter 18

    Chapter 18 Trouble Brewing


    It seemed like every time Jude and I were home, it ended badly.


    Over these three years, he''d always poked at my sore spots, saying the nastiest things.


    Of course, i followed his steps, and my words cut just as deep as his.


    Bring it on. I died twice already. I wasn''t scared anymore.


    I couldn''t remember what he cursed at the end but I turned over and fell into a deep sleep. Thank goodness my body was weak, or I wouldn''t have slept a wink.


    The next day, Raymond came straight to thepany to apologize.


    "Mrs. Carson, I''m really sorry about what happened yesterday. My friends had a bit too much to drink and didn''t mean any offense.


    "Please put in a good word for me with Mr. Carson. I think he was pretty mad yesterday." He sounded humble, even a bit worried.


    It made sense. Seeing how Jude looked ready to bite heads off yesterday, they must be scared.


    Jude''s reputation for constantly keeping mistresses preceded him, yet his wife was still me.


    Everyone said he was deeply in love with me but I hurt him, so he acted like this.


    However, he''d hurt me for so many years, too. I guess that evened things out.


    I shook the messy past of us out of my head and smiled at Raymond. "Mr. Dunce, you'' re joking. It was indeed my fault yesterday. Must''ve scared your friends. Please apologize to them for me.


    "So our coboration?" I looked at him intently. That was what I was after.


    "You and Mr. Carson both came to me personally. Of course, we''ll continue working together. But, I think some irrelevant non-professionals should stay out of the project,"


    he said.


    By "non-professionals", he meant Jude''s darling, Vivian.


    Maybe to save face for me, Raymond said this right in front of the whole design department.


    Word quickly reached Vivian, too.


    When Jude called me to his office, Vivian was already in tears. "Ada, how could you privately ask Mr. Dunce to kick me out of the team? I''m the project leader."


    "Fine, leader. I quit." I rolled my eyes at her right to her face. "Jude didn''t tell you he went to Raymond yesterday, too? If you''ve got a problem with the decision, talk to him."


    Chapter 1 Trouble Brewing


    The doctor said I need to keep in a good mood to avoid cancering back. In a week or two, I would be due for chemo, so I couldn''t be in a bad mood.


    I made up my mind to be a shrew. Anyone who provoked me would face my retort. If anyone were to mess with my money-making, I wouldn''t hold back either.


    Vivian hadn''t dealt with me before and didn''t know my temper. She was about to say more when some colleagues from the secretary department started giving her signals.


    "Vivian, it''s just one project. There are many others in the Carson Group. Let''s just drop this one." Once Jude decided, there wasn''t much room for turning back.


    Vivian looked at him unwillingly, trying to turn the tables. "But I''ve already sorted the materials..."


    "Vivian, be good." Jude''s tone wasn''t exactly gentle, but it was definitely flirty.


    Vivian immediately blushed, lowering her head shyly. "Got it."


    Watching their gross interaction, I couldn''t help but gag.


    I covered


    my mouth and quickly ran out of the office.


    Seeing this, Jude instinctively stood up but was stopped by Vivian.


    When I came back after throwing up, Vivian blocked me outside the office proudly.


    "Mr. Carson is on an important call. No random people are allowed in.


    "But since Mr. Carson said you''re fully in charge of the Bright Group case, don''t worry, I''ll step back from the team."


    I looked at her in surprise, never expecting her to give up so easily.


    The smile at the corner of her mouth was barely contained, and she deliberately raised her voice. "Mr. Carson said these projects often involve dinners and drinks with big bosses. He''s worried I''ll get taken advantage of.


    "But such engagements are just perfect for you."


    The sight of her smug, self-satisfied face made me want to throw up again.


    1 mimicked her tone, curling my lips. "Yeah, after all, things that can''t make it to


    the big stage only bring shame to the Carson Group."


    Having no interest in her ranting anymore, I turned and left.


    Without the rotten egg in the team, the project n was modified smoothly. I just needed to do a site inspection.


    The construction was mostlypleted over the past few months, so it was really not easy to make design changes now.


    When I got to the site, Raymond looked serious. "Mrs. Carson, look here. We need to retract at least one inch. And these materials need to be recalcted. How can we minimize the loss?"


    I looked carefully at the design drawings and the site, feeling a headacheing


    on.


    Before I could take photos, a group suddenly rushed in with sticks and shovels. "We won''t let this go today!


    "That''s night. You''re causing noise during construction here. We can''t even sleep, and. you mustpensate us?


    "No payment, no construction! No one moves!" they mored.


    The troublemakers at the site were a surprise to me. But Raymond seemed used


    to it and told security to clear them out.


    As soon as they interacted, someone fell over suddenly, and chaos ensued.


    Someone is getting beaten up, the construction crew is attacking! Hurry and call the police!


    "Murder! Not paying and trying to kill us!"


    Hearing their increasingly crazy shouts, I kept backing up, afraid of getting involved.


    My body was too fragile now; I couldn''t risk anything.


    But the troublemakers were too aggressive. Someone actually broke through security with a shovel heading our way.


    I tried to drag Raymond away, but my legs gave out, and I passed out the next second.

 Chapter 19

    Chapter 19 Work Injury


    When I opened my eyes, I was back in the hospital again.


    I did have a knack for ending up at the hospital.


    As the doctor looked at me, there was a hint of weariness in his gaze, "Ada, you''re something else. I''ve never seen a patient as disobedient as you."


    I struggled to sit up and exined, "Doctor, listen to me. I really didn''t do anything crazy this time. I just fainted suddenly."


    "You work so hard every day and don''t take your medicine properly. Of course, you would faint. You fainted today because of an emergency. You know what? If you can''t handle it, don''t go to work... Forget it, just be more careful,"


    The doctor didn''t finish his sentence, knowing full well that I was broke and couldn''t afford to be out of work.


    I nodded firmly. Now that I had a sry, survival wouldn''t be an issue.


    He nced at my medical record and reminded me softly, "You need a shot soon. It''s expensive and requires an appointment in advance. Can you afford it?"


    "Yeah, I can make an appointment early. Do I need to pay upfront?" I looked at the doctor with hope, thinking about how much money this project might bring in.


    The doctor sighed in relief when he heard me and told me there was no deposit needed; he would schedule it for me. But he was still worried since my chemo would start next week.


    "Your situation isn''t optimistic. A third recurrence isn''t impossible. Stay positive. I suggest starting chemo early and keeping up with your nutrition; you''re skinny," he suggested.


    As I gazed at my hands, resembling bird ws, a twinge of distress crept into my heart. I was indeed thin but couldn''t eat much because my appetite was poor.


    But thinking about the effects of chemo on my body, I gritted my teeth and decided to buy some supplements.


    It vaguely came to me that someone Jude a few boxes of supplements. Since his were mine, I nned to start taking them too.


    The doctor gave me some final instructions before leaving.


    Before he left, he turned back to me, "Is there anything else you need help with?"


    I mumbled, "Doctor, please don''t tell my family about this."


    I didn''t have any family left except for my husband; right now, I didn''t want him to know He might use me of colluding with the doctor, so it was probably better to let him think I was being overly sensitive,


    Chapter 19 Work jury


    The doctor nodded helplessly before leaving the ward.


    Soon, Raymond sent a message saying he had to go to the construction site and had to leave me at the hospital.


    That was enough for me; after all, he covered part of the medication costs already.


    By the time my only rtive-my husband Jude-arrived at the hospital after receiving news from Raymond, I had already finished getting my shot.


    Vivian linked her arm with his as they walked in together like a cute couple visiting a patient.


    Seeing that I was basically fine and munching on an apple, she seemed a bit miffed.¡± Ada, we checked the surveince. Those people were still several feet away from you, so why did you faint?


    "Are you trying to scam money or something?"


    I took a bite of the apple and mumbled vaguely, "Smart ass. The CEO''s wife faking a faint to scam money? That''d definitely go viral. Shouldn''t you be calling the PR department right now?"


    "You!" Vivian wanted to step forward but held back because Jude was there, so she just put on an innocent act. "Jude, look at her! She keepsing to the hospital for no reason. She is just trying to get your attention."


    I thought Jude would definitely side with her, but he stayed silent for a long time, staring at me. After what felt like two whole minutes, he finally said, "What''s going on? Are you really sick?"


    "Yeah, really." I looked at him expressionlessly, but inside, I was a bit nervous.


    His quick arrival this time sparked a tiny bit of hope in me.


    I was telling the truth, but it was obvious he didn''t believe me.


    Vivian quickly chimed in, "I asked the doctors, and they all said you''re fine. Maybe it''s just heatstroke.


    "Last time you even pretended to throw up in the office. Colleagues all saw that you didn''t throw up anything. You''re always acting."


    The subtext was that I was doing all this on purpose to get Jude''s attention.


    I shrugged it off and looked at Jude. "Whether I''m acting or not, I did faint and


    ended up in the hospital, and it was during work hours."


    I noticed Jude''s eyelid twitching as he looked at me with a serious gaze. "What do


    you


    mean?"


    "I mean, it counts as a work-rted injury. Remember to reimburse me. It was Mr. Dunce who paid for my hospital bills,¡± I exined patiently.


    I hated owing favors, but I didn''t wanna spend my own money either. If it was


    work-


    Chap 19 Wipek injury


    rted, of course, thepany should foot the bill.


    Jude was breathing heavily, unable to spit out a word for a while.


    Meanwhile, Vivian was snickering beside him, her eyes brimming with smugness, and she even unted her new watch.


    I nced over, smiling self-mockingly. Jude really must like her-that watch must cost at least 30 thousand dors.


    Vivian was pleased with my reaction, pouting as she tugged at Jude''s sleeve. "Jude, Ada might really be in trouble. Let''s just reimburse her."


    I sneered inside. A mistress telling my husband to help me out? Thanks a lot.


    Hearing her sweet persuasion, Jude humphed, ring at me menacingly. "Suit yourself."


    With that, he dragged Vivian out of the ward, mming the door with a loud bang.


    The smile on my lips froze, a tiny spark igniting in me. At least he came when I fainted.


    Maybe he''d check with ounting to see what illness got me that medical reimbursement.

 Chapter 20

    Chapter 20 Top Performer


    Since Jude agreed to let me file for work injurypensation, I naturally wouldn''t spare any expense for him.


    Plus, I had my own agenda this time. I kept feeling like the way Jude looked at me was different today, which reminded me of the past.


    I sorted all the receipts and sent them straight to finance that night.


    After a good half an hour, she finally replied.


    Nina: [Is this your medical record? Did Mr. Carson approve the reimbursement?]


    Me: [Yep, I''lle see you tomorrow.]


    I could imagine she must be utterly shocked, given that no one at thepany was aware of my illness.


    Nina was an old hand at the Carson Group, personally picked by Jude''s grandpa to help Jude.


    I trusted her and knew she wouldn''t spill the beans. And I believed if Jude asked her, she''d tell him the truth.


    I gently gripped my phone, the screen showing my chat box with Jude. I couldn''t


    help but wonder what he''d look like if he knew I was really sick.


    The next day, I went straight to finance with the receipts.


    When Nina saw me holding the reimbursement form, she looked utterly


    speechless." Ada, is this for real? I thought you were joking. You sure you want thepany to reimburse you?"


    I nodded, of course, I was sure, or I''d be footing the bill myself.


    Nina didn''t give me a hard time but told me how to organize the receipts directly.


    When she saw my receipts, she clearly froze. "How old are you? How''d you get this illness? When was the surgery?"


    Yesterday, the doctor changed my dressing, fearing my wound would reopen. Everything was clearly written in the medical record.


    Nina could see it, and I believed anyone who wanted to check could find it out.


    I didn''t answer her questions but instead asked, "Did Jude tell you it''s okay to reimburse me?"


    Sessfully unlocked!


    She nodded. "Said it counts as worker''sp."


    "Nothing else?" I pressed.


    Seeing Nina shake her head, I had nothing more to say.


    If he had just asked one more question, maybe he would''ve known about my condition, but he didn''t


    I let out a heavy breath, my lingering hope finally dead.


    He couldn''t care less about me, so naturally, he wouldn''t bother to know what expenses I was reimbursed.


    My health check report had been sitting in his usual spot for the car keys for months.


    Back then, i thought maybe he''d turn over a new leaf like the male lead in the novel, who felt remorseful after realizing his wife was sick.


    But he didn''t even nce at my health report, and eventually, I had to throw it away myself.


    My situation with Jude wasn''t a secret at work; he''d brought plenty of women to the office. Pretty much everyone knew I was cheated on.


    Yet, he just wouldn''t let me go, and the colleagues had all sorts of things to say about


    it


    *


    Nina looked at my receipts and then gave me a sympathetic look. "Ada, you''re capable and pretty. Why him? Listen, save up more money, got it? Just look at that Vivian."


    1 nodded in full agreement.


    Maybe that was the right way for those who''d been through it-feelings were fake, only money was real. Now I got it too.


    Suddenly, I felt a bit envious of Vivian, being so clear-headed in her prime.


    Before leaving, I reminded Nina not to tell Jude about my illness.


    She looked puzzled, asking, ¡°Maybe he''d change after he knew?"


    I shrugged helplessly. "He won''t; he''d just think I''m ying the victim card. Better


    not." He''d never know, and maybe that was for the best.


    As I left the finance department, I saw Vivian showing off her bag to others proudly. "It''s a limited edition; you have to queue for ages. You need millions in annual spending to even get the chance.


    "Yeah, Jude pre-ordered it for me; he chose the color. Isn''t it nice?"


    When I approached, she seemed to notice me and called out dramatically, "Ada, you really came to finance for reimbursement?


    "It''s just a few hundred bucks, worthing for reimbursement? You really that broke?"


    She lifted her chin, her eyes full of smugness.


    Then, pretending to be concerned, she whispered softly, "After all, you''re still the CEO''s wife. Acting so stingy like this will make Jude aughingstock."


    My gaze fell on the bag in her hand, and I nodded seriously. "You''re pretty loaded, more than me, the so-called CEO''s wife,"


    "Hmph, don''t underestimate me. This isn''t part of your ''marital property" She


    deliberately emphasized the phrase "marital property."


    Guess I hit a nervest time; her voice got even louder. "This bag? Bought it with my sry. I''m a top performer, so Jude specially bumped up my bonus.


    "Don''t get any wrong ideas. Jude just reserved it for me; I paid for it myself."


    I couldn''t help butugh out loud upon hearing this.


    An intern with a six-figure bag? Jude sure was loaded.


    "What are youughing at? Are you looking down on me?" Vivian was now like a


    cat whose tail got stepped on, ready to blow her top any second.


    I wiped the tears fromughing and gave her a thorough once-over from head to


    toe. As an intern, putting in effort in bed counts, too.


    "Not bad indeed. Keep it up, or the top performer next month might not be you."

 Chapter 21

    Chapter 21 Commission Time


    Vivian ran out crying, and everyone was staring at me, shocked.


    I smiled at the onlookers, joking, "You guys don''t have a backer, yet you still dare to ck off here?"


    I could tell they were all shocked, shocked that I, a pushover, had finally stood up for myself once.


    But I really didn''t mean to make things difficult for Vivian. If she hadn''te at me, I would''ve been fine with peace between us.


    Apparently, she didn''t want to.


    When I got back to the design department, everyone''s eyes on me had changed.


    Thepany might look big, but there were just as many gossip groups.


    Sure enough, as soon as I opened Whatsapp, I saw a bunch of people ranting about what just happened.


    [What''s got into Ada? I think she''s been looking awfully, thintely. Maybe something really is wrong with her?]


    [Maybe she just couldn''t take it anymore? Being cheated on for three years, anyone would go crazy, right?]


    [Vivian just ran crying to Mr. Carson''s office. I bet a hundred bucks Ada''s gonna get scolded!]


    [I bet twenty Ada will be fine.]


    There were actually people starting to bet in the group, but most thought Jude would definitely side with his little lover.


    It seemed everyone had a pretty consistent view of him.


    All these years, he seemed to be protecting me. But whenever I shed with his lover, he would always criticize me first.


    However, I didn''t get scolded this time. Everything seemed fine.


    It wasn''t until close to the end of the workday that Ellen stood before me,


    clutching a stack of documents, her expression a mix of grievance and dejection.


    "Ada, the secretary''s office said Mr. Carson is busy and won''t let me see him.


    These documents haven''t been signed yet," she said.


    "The supplier just called and said the money hadn''t arrived. They want to raise the price. What do we do?"


    I took the documents from her, frowning. "Why so many copies?"


    "Vivian said the format was wrong, the font was wrong, and kept making us


    revise. Finally, we finished revising, but she told us Mr. Carson couldn''t sign them. Now what?"


    Chapter 21 Commission Time


    Ellen was about to cry.


    I totally got how she felt. If there was a loss in thepany, there would be ountability.


    The supplier raised prices now, and though the unit price increase might seem insignificant, it actually cost thepany hundreds of thousands of dors.


    Without hesitation, I grabbed the documents and stormed straight into Jude''s office.


    Vivian was sitting next to him, taking bites of a little cake.


    "Mr. Carson, you are really busy and don''t even have time to sign documents?" I pushed the document right in front of Jude.


    "You didn''t sign it, so the finance department hasn''t made the payment. The supplier is now raising prices. This isn''t our department''s responsibility, so please be clear when assigning me," I said coldly.


    Vivian immediately stood up, looking at me with a tense expression. "Isn''t it time to leave work now? Can''t Mr. Carson just be unavable? Does he have to keep working non-stop?"


    "Whatever you say. Ellen and the others have been looking for you for hours. You guys figure it out." After saying my piece, I was about to leave, cause I really didn''t want to watch them feed each other cake anymore.


    I knew this started because of me, but I couldn''t let Ellen and the others take the


    me.


    No one should take the me.


    Jude looked at me coldly, then nced at the document, his brows furrowing slightly.


    He was not stupid; he became the heir for a reason.


    I knew he could see the issue; now it was about what he''d do.


    But I overestimated him.


    He sneered and pushed the documents back to me. "Problems in your department are your responsibility."


    "Sorry, I''m from design. And we keep records of everything-Ellen and others sent documents to Vivian with proof.


    "I think we should just go through the internal investigation process. Let''s make it public in the board meeting. How about that?" I smiled at him and then nced at Vivian, who was now ghastly pale.


    She probably just wanted to make things difficult for me but didn''t expect such a disaster.


    This supplier wasn''t originally our long-term partner; we only worked with them due to a temporary shortage of materials.


    Chapton 21 Commission Time


    They already offered a low price, and it was not their fault to raise prices since the Carson Group didn''t pay on time.


    Jude looked at the document again, asking, ¡°How much did they raise by?"


    *0.5%, which means construction costs will go up by around 1%," I replied. Hearing this, Jude couldn''t sit still any longer; he sat up straight and stared intently at


    1. me.


    I wouldn''t lie to him about work stuff, so I just pulled out the budget document right. away from the bottom.


    "This is just the visible increase. If they cancel the cooperation, the project will be dyed, and other costs will rise too." My every word made Vivian''s face paler.


    She opened her mouth a few times, but she didn''t know what to say. Meanwhile, Jude carefully reviewed the materials and then massaged his temples.


    That was his usual move whenever he was stressed.


    If there was a problem with the construction materials, it wouldn''t just cost a few


    million.


    Finally, his gaze returned to me as hemanded, "You''re in charge. Go negotiate


    with them."


    "I''m not going. I''m the chief designer; that''s not my job," I rejected tly.


    To put it bluntly, this was not my responsibility. Even if it were, I wouldn''t bother to


    handle it, at least not for free.


    At that moment, Jude and I were totally on the same wavelength.


    "Want amission?" he asked.


    I squinted my eyes and gave him a big smile. "Tens of millions might be saved,


    right?"


    He looked at me and suddenlyughed out of frustration. "Fine, you go. If you seed, 150 thousand dors"


    My smile grew even brighter. "Sure thing, Mr. Carson."

 Chapter 22

    Chapter 22 You Make Me Sick


    I knew the supplier. It had only worked with the Carson Group once or twice


    before, so we were not super familiar.


    When I got to theirpany, they were clearly pretty pissed.


    "Mrs. Carson, what a rare visit. Not busy at yourpany anymore?


    "Our small biz might not be able to provide proper hospitality to the esteemed guests from the Carson Group." Russell Morrison nced up, blowing on his coffee as he spoke.


    Knowing it was the Carson Group''s fault this time, I wasn''t being too tough.


    Over the years, I might not have learned much else, but I did learn how to show weakness to business partners.


    Sometimes there really was a gender advantage in the business world.


    Russell was still there after work hours, which actually proved he was waiting for someone from the Carson Group since no one else but they could supply so quickly.


    After a lot of nice talk, Russell''s expression softened a lot, though he still wasn''t giving in. "We already gave the Carson Group the lowest price, even rushed production without extra charge. Not paying now is really too much."


    "You''re absolutely right. It''s our fault this time, but if you agree, we can make the payment right away." I pushed the documents right in front of him.


    "Mr. Morrison, we actually have several big projectsing up that will need even more materials.


    "I know yourpany isn''t short of partners, but stable cooperation? It''s


    beneficial for both sides, right?"


    Russell flipped through the documents, his eyes flickering.


    Even though Jude was just the president of a subsidiary, everyone knew he might be


    the future head of the HQ.


    If they could get in with the Carson Group, at least seven years of guaranteed profits would be secured.


    Seeing he was tempted, I pulled out more cooperation cases and profit analyses.


    In the end, Russell was swayed by me. "Mrs. Carson, you really are good with words. I used to think..."


    He didn''t finish his sentence, but got iter


    Sessfully unlocked!


    Everyone thought I was a quiet type, never Saying anything even when cheated


    on.


    Iughed somewhat awkwardly, "Guess it''s out of necessity. Mr. Carson sent me here. I didn''t dare note. Lucky to meet you, otherwise I wouldn''t have had a chance to


    Chapter 22 You Make Me Back


    talk so much."


    My role as the jilted, bitter woman truly came in handy,


    People in the circle all felt sorry for me, and Russell stopped giving me a hard time.


    But he insisted I promise to partner with him on the next project before he agreed to supply at the original price.


    Having wrapped up this matter, I was in a fantastic mood,


    As soon as the goods arrived, I''d have 150 thousand dors in my ount this month. I wouldn''t have to worry about money anymore, at least for a while.


    After taking my meds, I wanted to sleep soundly but was woken up by Jude''s call.


    Thung up a few times, but he kept calling back.


    Thinking if something happened to him, I might not get the money anytime soon. I finally swallowed my pride and picked up.


    "Come pick me up, Blue Moon." His voice came through.


    "Can''t, already sleeping."


    Just as I was about to hang up, Rafferty''s voice came from the other end. "Ada, juste over. Jude''s drunk and acting crazy, calling everyone wife.


    "Please, if you don''te soon, I''m gonna get ''taken care of'' by him right here." Rafferty''s voice was hoarse like he was really quite anxious.


    As one of Jude''s few circle friends, Rafferty was good to me, so after thinking it over, I


    got up.


    It was not ideal to let people actually see Jude''s drunken antics. If something happened, I, as his nominal wife, would still have to clean up the mess.


    When I arrived at the bar, Jude was indeed already quite drunk. Seeing me, he immediately rushed over, mumbling, "Honey, you''re here.


    "They''re all bad people, saying you wouldn''te. I knew you cared about me." He kept kissing my neck, which made my scalp tingling.


    But no matter how hard I pushed, I couldn''t get him off. In the end, I just let him hold


    1. me.


    Meanwhile, Rafferty patted his chest like he had survived a disaster. "Ada, if you didn''te, I really would''ve knocked him out. He''s too scary."


    Then he looked me up and down. "No wonder they call you the campus belle. You look like a college student."/


    Rushed out in a hurry, I only had a white dress on.


    This was my favorite type back in my school days, and the first dress Jude bought


    me


    Chapter 22 You Make Me Sick


    was white, too.


    Jude shoved him away, giving him the stink eye. "Hands off my wife, scram."


    Seeing his adorably fierce look, I burst outughing.


    He used to give that same re to my suitors back in school, except he called me his girlfriend" then.


    Just as I was reminiscing, Vivian''s voice, all teary, came from behind. ¡°Jude.¡± Hearing this, Jude stiffened slightly, then quickly let go of me. "Vivian? You..."


    He gave me a suspicious look, then his eyes cleared up with a hint of disgust. "Ada, you''re sickening. Trying to win me back, you''re copying Vivian''s style now? You don''t really think I''d go home with you, do you?"


    I nced at Vivian-she was indeed in a white dress just like mine, looking like my college self.


    I wiped the spot on my neck, where he just kissed with disdain, sneering, "Jude, stop


    dialing the wrong number next time, and I won''t be picking you up anymore.


    "Never."

 Chapter 23

    Chapter 23 You Broke Your Promise


    After that day, it seemed that Ipletely fell out with Jude.


    He stoppeding home, and I didn''t bother asking. Even when we ran into each other at the office, we acted like strangers.


    This actually made me feel more at ease. Life without him was so much easier.


    Vivian stopped provoking me too, but every time she saw me, she had this smug look. Jude was just a jerk, and even if it wasn''t Vivian, someone else would''ve snatched him


    away.


    There were so many people in the world who looked alike; finding someone simr to me wasn''t hard.


    I didn''t really care about their love-hate rtionship anyway because I was about to start getting my shots.


    The finance department knew I needed the money and, with Jude''s approval, promptly transferred my bonus to me.


    With cash in hand, I felt more confident and even bought some supplements.


    After scheduling an appointment with the doctor, I went straight to thepany to request leave.


    Casey was worried that something might happen to me if I went for a shot alone, so she took a leave of absence to apany me.


    "The first injection might have strong side effects. It''s best to stay for observation," the doctor advised while giving me the shot.


    I carefully noted the instructions and watched as the liquid slowly entered my veins, feeling like my life was being extended.


    "Ms. Watson, you''re doing great. That''s a good sign. But you need to eat more. Your body will consume more energy, so make sure to replenish well," the doctor added.


    Casey kept nodding beside me.


    She had already given me two boxes of supplements earlier, pretending they were a gift from someone else, but she forgot about the receipt under the box.


    Sitting next to me, she turned into a nagging mom. "You always dieted in school; now eat up! I''ll treat you to a meal every week from now on. If you lose weight, I''ll dock your pay."


    I leaned my head on her shoulder feeling the warmth and my heart warming up too.


    Sessfully unlocked!


    The side effects of the first injection were indeed strong-dizziness, nausea, and a dry


    mouth.


    The doctor said it was normal and advised me to have a good rest at home.


    Chapter 23 You Broke Your Promise


    Casey originally wanted me to stay at her ce for a day, but as soon as we got in the car, I got a call from Russell.


    "Ada, you''re the president''s wife. How can you go back on your word? We agreed on the next project, didn''t we?


    "Why are you suddenly telling us there''s no cooperation?" Russell''s words puzzled me. I had discussed the partnership with Jude before, and he agreed, so why the change? After finally managing to calm Russell down, I rushed back to the office.


    I knew how crucial the partnership with the Morrisons was. Losing trust this time could hurt the Carson Group''s reputation.


    Jude might be a jerk, but the Carson family had been good to me. I couldn''t stand by and watch thepany fall into trouble.


    Back in my office, I dug out the new partnership documents.


    "Who''s Skydiver Material? Never heard of them." I pointed at the supplier''s documents, giving Ellen a questioning look.


    Ellen shook her head, replying, "No idea. Mr. Carson just decided on them today. Seems like a new, smallpany."


    Flipping through the contract, I noticed the rep was also a Miller. That exined it.


    When I got to Jude''s office, Vivian tried to stop me, but seeing my angry face, she backed off. "Um, Mr. Carson is..."


    "Move." I pushed her aside.


    Jude was on the phone, and upon seeing me enter, he spoke a few words to the other party with noticeable displeasure before finally hanging up.


    Vivian looked at him with sorry written all over her face. "Jude, Ada forced her way in. I couldn''t stop her."


    Jude looked annoyed at me, questioning, "What is it?"


    "I already agreed with Mr. Morrison on the next project. You approved it too. Why back out now?" I pointed at Skydiver Material''s name on the file.


    "Is this thepany you designated for cooperation, or is it apany owned by someone''s rtives?" My gaze fell on Vivian''s face, which looked forlorn and subdued.


    There weren''t many people surnamed Miller in the business, and her guilty look told me I was right.


    She pouted and nced at Jude, then seemed to find her anchor, her tone growing noticeably more assertive. "It''s just a verbal agreement, no contract signed.


    "Ada, you''re just the marketing director. Thispany belongs to the Carsons, not yours to decide."


    She ignored me and stood shoulder to shoulder with Jude.


    Chapter 23 You Broke Your Promise


    "You are a Carson? Or are you already Mrs. Carson?¡± I knew I must look terrifying, as Vivian huddled closer to Jude.


    He held her tighter, saying, "Ada, Vivian''s right. You don''t get a say inpany matters."


    "Breaking promises like that, don''t you care about thepany''s image anymore?


    "We have more projects than just this. Don''t you care about other partnerships?¡± I argued, trying to snap him out of it.


    In my eyes, no matter how much of a jerk Jude might be, he knew how to draw


    the line when it came to work.


    If Russell stopped cooperating, several projects might halt.


    But Jude just scoffed, "It''s not the Carson Group breaking promises, it''s you. What


    you promised has nothing to do with the Carson Group. Who do you think you are?"

 Chapter 24

    Chapter 24 Filing For Divorce


    Jude''s words hit me right in the heart.


    Having been together with me for so many years, he knew best what mattered to me, so he didn''t mince his words when hurting me.


    I forced my eyes open, trying hard not to cry and not to let my eyes turn red. Especially not in front of him and Vivian, I didn''t want to look so vulnerable.


    In the end, I just nodded and left the office directly.


    He was right. I didn''t have a say in the Carson Group, so naturally, I couldn''t represent


    them.


    Everyone knew I was an unwanted Mrs. Carson, so my promises only represented myself. But I had to take responsibility for this and give Russell an exnation.


    When I got to hispany, Russell threw a cup right in front of me.


    The cup shatters into pieces, causing a loud smack.


    "Ada, you can''t do business like this! Do you know I adjusted production schedules for the Carson Group project?¡± he roared. "Now you pull this on me. Are we not going to cooperate anymore?"


    I had no defense this time.


    The Carson Group partnership had already gone to Skydiver Material, so there was no way we could work with Russell anymore.


    I kept apologizing, trying to calm his anger.


    But Russell was really mad. He stood up, pushed me by the shoulders, and demanded me to leave.


    Suddenly, I felt something flowing from my nose, and then I saw the horrified look in Russell''s eyes.


    "Ada, Mrs. Carson, Ada!" he shouted, all panicky.


    I gently wiped my nose. Seeing the red blood, I was momentarily stunned.


    Then Russell yelled loudly, "Call 911, quick!"


    I wanted to tell him I was fine, probably just a side effect from the injection. But I couldn''t say a word and just copsed.


    I didn''t fully faint; there was still some consciousness left in me.


    Sessfully unlocked!


    It seemed like many people lifted me into an ambnce; there were chaotic


    footsteps around me, and someone kept calling my name.


    When I woke up, it was already dark outside.


    Chapter 24 Filing For Divorce


    Russell and his wife were sitting by my bed; seeing me awake, they quickly gathered


    around.


    "Ms. Watson, are you okay? Is there anywhere that hurts?" Mrs. Morrison was a kind-looking woman, all worried as she looked at me.


    I gently shook my head and started with an apology, "I''m really sorry, Mr.


    Morrison. The deal didn''t go through, and I made you worry."


    "Forget it. It''s not your fault. I know you''ve had it tough." Russell waved his hand, and I could see he was genuinely upset too.


    Losing such a big order would make anyone mad-it was more than just a financial hit.


    Mrs. Morrison poured me a ss of water and shot Russell a re. "Ms. Watson, the doctor said it''s a side effect from the shot but didn''t tell us what shot.


    "Russell just called Mr. Carson, and his secretary said he''s probably busy." She looked at me with some hesitation, and I got the message right away.


    It had been hours, and Jude hadn''t shown up-he wasn''ting by any chance.


    Vivian probably never mentioned my incident to him, or if she did, but he simply didn''t


    care to see me.


    I shook my head helplessly, masking my emotions, then pulled out my phone.


    "Mr. Morrison, I came not just to apologize but to make amends," I said. Then, I forwarded the contact information of several previous coborators to him. "These guys have projects that need supplies, and I''ve talked to them-they''re keen to work with yourpany.


    "I know it''s the Carson Group''s fault this time, and apologies don''t cut it. It falls to you to renegotiate with them, and I apologize for the trouble," I said, all guilty to him.


    Seeing the contacts on his phone, Russell finally gave a smile involuntarily.


    Then he sighed, "Ms. Watson, why go to such lengths?"


    I smiled back, not knowing how to exin.


    They all knew about my situation, so they called me "Ms. Watson" instead of "Mrs. Carson."


    The doctor finally confirmed it was just a drug side effect, nothing serious.


    The Morrisons insisted on driving me home, but I refused.


    It was okay to show weakness for work, but I didn''t want pity every time people


    saw


    1. me.


    *****


    When I got back to the neighborhood, I felt a bit suffocated. If I had a choice, I wouldn''t want toe back here. I was already thinking about whether I should leave.


    Chapter 24 Fang For Divorce


    As soon as the door opened, I felt a chill in the living room.


    Seeing the figure on the sofa, I instinctively grabbed a vase from the shoe rack,


    only to see Jude walk up to me and turn on the light in the living room.


    "Hmph, don''t even recognize me anymore?" he scoffed.


    I squinted slightly, finally seeing his angry face.


    Lignored him and just changed into slippers.


    But the next second, he grabbed my wrist and pinned me against the wall. "Why


    didn''t you pick up the phone? What exactly are you trying to do?


    "Aren''t you all about work? Do you know how much has been dyed because you didn''t show up at thepany? Can you take responsibility for that?"


    He seemed really mad; his grip kept tightening, and I felt like my wrist was about


    break.


    I sucked in a breath, then red at him with resentment. "If you break my wrist,


    that should count as intentional harm, right? I can sue for domestic violence and divorce.


    "Have you thought about how much you''re gonna split''with me?"

 Chapter 25

    Chapter 25 Speaking Of The Devil


    "Ada, when did you be so unreasonable? Threatening me with divorce can''t undo the damage from your unauthorized absence, you know?


    "If you want money, then work hard. Don''t act like thepany is your personal yground." Jude instinctively loosened his grip, his brows still furrowed as he looked at me, as if I were being unreasonable.


    His words left me puzzled. It was like he forgot I was his wife, and that naturally made thepany partly mine. But I didn''t feel like arguing with him now.


    I shrugged, saying, "Guess I never realized how crucial I was before. How did the Carson Group manage without me?


    "If I''m that important, maybe my paycheck should reflect that. Feeling a bit shortchanged here." I pushed him aside and tossed my bag onto the couch.


    He wasn''t happy with my attitude and grabbed my wrist again, only to pause slightly." Why are you even skinnier? Aren''t you eatingtely?"


    Shocked he noticed, I just gave a sneer and stayed silent.


    Truth was I had no appetite. The doctor said chemo might make it worse, but I gotta eat or my body would give out.


    ncing at my reddened wrist, I sighed softly. I really was too thin-a break might be inevitable next time.


    "Ada, can you cut it out? You''re the design department''s head; there''s a lot waiting for your approval. You can''t just bail on thepany." Jude''s annoying voice brought me back, forcing me to retort.


    "So? Then why didn''t you pick up Russell''s call? Oh right, nor mine. Vivian said you were busy." I stared nkly at him.


    His eyes showed surprise, a flicker of panic, but ultimately turned to anger. "Ada, I had an important meeting this afternoon. Stop being so unreasonable.


    "Why is it always someone else''s fault? Can''t you ever reflect on yourself?


    "Back in ge, you never acted like this. Why now do you always me the innocent?"


    I simply watched him rage, my mind as cool as a cucumber.


    Funny, even I didn''t remember how I was in college anymore, yet he did.


    Vivian was innocent, but what about me? A troublemaker?


    I blinked, my eyes a bit teary.


    Sessfully unlocked!


    Back in college, I wasn''t like this because Jude would always believe in me unconditionally.


    My grad thesis got used of giarism then. I could''ve won the best thesis, but


    Chapter 25 Speaking Of The Devil


    instead, theyunched an investigation.


    Everyone thought since I was a rich girl, I must''ve bought someone else''s paper.


    Especially since the user was a poor student who studied really hard. Her story sounded more convincing. She insisted my thesis was just her work rewritten, and even my advisor sided with her.


    Man, it felt like my world copsed. Graduating was one thing, but being framed


    was


    another.


    No one believed me except a few close friends.


    During that time, I didn''t see Jude for a whole week. We only talked on the phone or WhatsApp.


    Then, a weekter, he showed up with surveince footage and some handwritten drafts


    own away.


    That was when I found out what he''d been up to. He teamed up with some ssmates to hack into the school''s surveince and found proof that the user stole my


    thesis.


    Then, he went through the trash bins to find my handwritten notes.


    He barely slept that whole week. When he finally showed up, he smelled awful.


    But I didn''t care at all. I hugged him tight.


    Back then, he was my light, the one person I''d always stand by.


    But now, all I see in his eyes was doubt. I turned my head slightly.


    People change-I''d known that since I was little, yet I couldn''t fathom why it took me so long to truly understand.


    Suddenly, warm liquid rushed from my nose again. I instinctively covered it, but blood still flew out.


    Jude looked at me in panic and quickly pulled out a tissue.


    "What''s going on? What... what''s happening?" His voice was shaking, and the fear in his eyes didn''t seem fake.


    He was always like this. Just when I thought he''d forgiven the past and still loved me the same, he brought other women home and told me he didn''t love me anymore.


    Then, when I thought he hated me so much he wished I''d drop dead, he got all worried about me again.


    I pushed him away hard and grabbed some tissues to cover my nose. "I''m so mad at you that I''m getting a nosebleed. So what?


    "As long as I can''t see you, I''m doing great and might even live a few more years! Otherwise, I''ll be driven to death by you and your little sweetheart sooner orter!"


    I wasn''t lying. The doctor said I need to keep a good mind, or I really might get sick


    * 25 Spening Of The Dex


    from being so angry.


    His face changed colors a few times at my words, and then he seethed through gritted teeth, "Whatever! Ada, even if you beg me to care about you in the future, I won''t.


    "Even if you bleed to death, I wouldn''t even look at you again!" With that, he grabbed his coat and stormed out, mming the door behind him.


    When I heard the door close, my dead heart seemed to start hurting again.


    I let the nosebleed flow, staining my chest red.


    Jude, don''t you know what they say about speaking of the devil? Maybe your words will reallye true.


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 Chapter 26

    The next day, I texted Veronica Read, Jude''s secretary, to ask for leave, saying I had something on without going into details.


    She simply replied with an "Okay" and didn''t ask more.


    30%


    Veronica was under the employ of Mr. Ewan Carson and Jude''s most capable assistant. Asking her for leave was effectively the same as asking Jude


    himself.


    After yesterday''s unpleasantness, Jude just thought I was being unreasonable and throwing a tantrum.


    He texted me directly, saying I was absent without leave and would be docked my full attendance bonus for the month.


    As I calcted my sry, I realized the full attendance bonus didn''t seem like much, so I wasn''t too heartbroken.


    +15


    Casey was already waiting for me downstairs early in the morning with steamed bread. "I know you can''t eat much, but try to eat a little. They say chemo is really hard on the body."


    Under her worried gaze, I forced myself to eat the bread heartily, and she finally rxed and drove me to the hospital.


    During chemo, I felt quite nervous. Especially when I saw the beautiful girl with a shaved head beside me, I instinctively tightened my grip on Casey''s


    hand.


    Casey also saw the little girl and her eyes filled with endless sympathy.


    The little girl''s mom seemed to understand our looks and smiled helplessly. "After chemotherapy, hair loss is inevitable. It''s better to shave it off beforehand than to lose it allter."


    The little girl nodded vigorously. "Miss, don''t worry. You can wear a wigter! There are lots of beautiful wigs at the shop behind the hospital."


    The little girl looked about seven or eight years old, an age of carefree innocence.


    She probably didn''t understand what being bald meant and kept telling me about the pretty twin tails at the wig shop behind the hospital.


    Casey pouted. "Those merchants really know how to do business. Their shop must be booming."


    Iughed, nodding. "Yeah, let''s go take a lookter."


    She opened her mouth, trying to say something but finally just nodding.


    Only after my chemotherapy ended did she say, "Ada, you''ll always be the most beautiful in my heart! I''ll buy you the most beautiful wig!"


    Seeing the tears in her eyes, I nodded firmly. "I want the most expensive one, or you can grow your hair long and make me a wig."


    She ran her fingers through her long hair, shaking her head. "Just leave my hair alone," she said. "I''d rather buy you a wig instead."


    We exchanged smiles, and some of the sadness from earlier was lifted.


    Maybe cuz I''d already had a shot, I didn''t immediately feel weird from the chemo.


    When we passed a hair salon, I asked Casey to stop. "I wanna get a short haircut."


    She looked at me in panic, and it wasn''t until I repeatedly assured her that it was just a short haircut that she finally agreed to get out of the car with me.


    My hair had been growing since high school, only getting trimmed once a year.


    17:00 Thu, 8 May


    Long hair was easier to style, and being a bit vain, I spent quite a bit on hair care annually.


    "Miss, are you sure you wanna go short? What a shame." The hairdresser asked me for the third time, and I nodded firmly again.


    "Can you keep my hair? I wanna make a wig. Can you help arrange that?" I asked.


    The salon was close to the hospital. The hairdresser got my drift, looked at me sympathetically, then nodded.


    I noticed Casey turning her head away and discreetly wiping away tears.


    I smiled, thinking it was just a haircut, not a lifecut.


    The hairdresser carefully cut off my long hair and set it aside. Meanwhile, he kept


    encouraging me, sharing stories of cancer patients'' miracles.


    I knew too, that with proper care, I might not die soon.


    Everyone was destined to die, and I just wanted to die with purpose. Ideally, I''d like to live a few more years and enjoy life to the fullest.


    Looking at my skinny reflection in the mirror, I felt a bit dazed.


    Back when Jude and I first got together, he once apanied me for a haircut.


    Shoulder-length hair was super trendy then, and I thought about going short, but Jude strongly opposed it, almost arguing with the hairdresser.


    I said, "I spend a lot every month on hair care."


    30%


    #15


    He pursed his lips and then assured me that he would definitely work hard on software development, strive to be a model worker, and ensure that I could live a good life, relying solely on him.


    Back then, he said he just loved me with long hair.


    The truth was, the first time I offered to support him, he noticed me-long blonde


    was basically every guy''s dream girl.


    I touched my own hair, feeling a bit mixed up.


    It didn''t matter anymore. He didn''t love me anymore, so he definitely wouldn''t


    care if I was long-haired or short.


    After cutting my hair, I felt way more refreshed.


    Casey also breathed a sigh of relief, patting her chest nonstop. ¡°Lucky for you, that face of yours is versatile-I reckon you''d still look good even if you went bald."


    I rolled my eyes at her. "You''ll soon get to see my bald look."


    Her mood got a bit down again from my words, so I gently hugged her. "Don''t worry. It''s just hair. The doc said it''ll grow back."


    pastigi


    Just as we were debating whether to get steak or pasta, Jude''s call came in


    again. "Ada, you think taking leave solves everything? No matter where you are, get back here right now!"


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    Comment

 Chapter 27

    Back in the day, I used to eagerly anticipate his calls.


    Now, seeing "Jude" pop up on my screen felt like it was burning my eyes. But with


    a few projects in hand, I chose to head back to the office.


    ÁÖ½ð30%ºÏ


    Walking into Jude''s office, I caught sight of Vivian rushing out, her eyes red from


    crying.


    She shot me a hateful re as she passed by.


    Puzzled, I raised an eyebrow, and then stepped in. "You need something?"


    Maybe it was my short hair, but Jude seemed momentarily distracted, asking instinctively, "Why''d you cut your hair?"


    1 didn''t feel like answering and repeated, "You need something?"


    "Family dinner tonight. You''reing with me." Jude massaged his temples with


    a headache, his eyes filled with resistance.


    He was part of the Carson family but never fit in.


    I only knew he was an orphan, picked up by his grandma. The neighbors helped him get his legal identityter.


    If not for his ster grades, he might never have left that small town.


    Yet, he had this unique aura that set him apart-that was what drew me to him.


    Just when he was at his lowest, about to hit rock bottom, his identity was revealed.


    Three months after I broke up with him and left for Kasend, the Carson family found him. Guess fate had its twists. His grandma got severe heart disease, and he was juggling hospital visits and work.


    Back then, he was just a broke programmer.


    Meanwhile, I had my first cancer re-up, and our family was in financial trouble. Things weren''t looking good. Cancer was spreading fast.


    Mom decided to send me abroad.


    Before I left, she made me break up with Jude.


    I cried, holding her hand. "Mom, Jude won''t abandon me. He loves me so much; he wouldn''t leave me just because I have cancer."


    Mom shook her head sadly, her eyes full of pain. "Silly girl, his grandma''s really sick, and we''re in this mess. Company funds are frozen. You have to go abroad now."


    I kept shaking my head, refusing to break up with Jude.


    It wasn''t until Mom revealed the truth that I had to give in.


    It turned out that my grandma and two aunts all died of cancer.


    Back then, I didn''t know my mom had also been diagnosed with cancer, which was why she was so desperate.


    "Ada, while this illness isn''t 100% hereditary, look at us...


    "I know Jude is a good kid, and I know you love him, but I don''t want you two to end up ming each other. You get me, right?


    4151


    May


    ?


    "If you drag him down now, what about your future? Is there even gonna be one?" Mom''s words froze me in ce.


    Jude might not mind me, but what if our kids die from cancer, too? I shuddered to think if he ever found out the truth, he''d hate me to death.


    He''d always wanted a family, a real home, and I didn''t wanna crush hisst wish.


    At only 20 back then, I never thought I might die.


    Æø30%•þ


    15


    I didn''t know how many days I cried, but eventually, when I saw peopleing to my house demanding debt, I finally left the country under my mom''s arrangements.


    Before leaving, I gave my roommate the pink diamond ne my grandma left me to pass to Jude, telling him to sell it for his grandma''s treatment.


    If I gave it to him myself, he definitely wouldn''t take it.


    Things were already messy when we broke up. My mom even called him a gold digger in front of him.


    Jude''d always been proud, yet he still waited three days and nights outside our vi until news spread I was leaving with a rich guy to Kasend.


    It was at the hospital where his grandma was that he met his biological grandpa.


    At the time. Ewan urgently needed a bone marrow dohor to save his life. Jude, simply answering the hospital''s call to participate in the matching process, never expected that it would actually seed.


    After the surgery, Ewan insisted on personally thanking him.


    Maybe it was the family blood running in the vein. Ewan recognized Jude as his


    own blood the moment he saw him in the hospital.


    And with a DNA test, they confirmed Jude''s identity.


    After marrying Jude and visiting the Carson family a few times, I learned that Jude''s parents had been missing for twenty years.


    When he was three, the whole family went hiking and just vanished.


    Even though there were ransom calls, once the Carson family paid up, they couldn''t get in touch anymore.


    Everyone thought the kidnappers must''ve killed them, but yearster, Jude reappeared.


    And precisely because they hadn''t seen each other for years, coupled with the fact that Ewan had only this one grandson, his arrival threw a wrench into the Carson family''s usual vibe.


    Jude hated schmoozing with these people, so after we got married, he handed all that interaction work to me.


    He''d just tag along, being a total prop.


    Every time he went back to his grandpa''s mansion, he was all grumpy, just like now.


    He tapped the table, giving me a look of disdain. "Remember the time, you go yourself,"


    Seeing him leave, I got it. No wonder Vivian was crying and running out earlier after all, I was still the nominal Mrs. Carson and those family gatherings


    weren''t her scene.


    But she was not losing out either-Jude had tofort her now.


    The mere thought of the Carsons'' faces hindered me from attending the family dinner. But considering how nice Ewan had been to me, I reined it in just doing it for his sake.

 Chapter 29

    As soon as the workday ended, I hailed a cab straight to Ewan''s vi, knowing Jude wouldn''te to pick me up.


    Sure enough, as soon as I arrived, I saw Jude already sitting inside.


    The group was chatting andughing, only he seemed out of ce.


    When I walked in, Jude''s aunt, Mireille, smiled and pulled me inside.


    "I knew it. Our family''s daughter-inw is really... frugal. That bag must be at least five or six years old, right? Can still sell for a few hundred bucks now?


    "You look like an intern, honestly..." Mireille said. She''d always been sharp- tongued.


    She once tried to set Jude up with her best friend''s daughter, but I swooped in and stole him. So, every time we met, she''d take a few jabs at me.


    I just smiled and kept quiet. Most of the Carsons knew my situation, and they all saw me as a joke.


    Suddenly, she seemed to remember something and quickly covered her mouth. "Oh dear, my poor memory! Whatever you want to wear or use, you''d have to get Jude''s permission first.


    "Otherwise, you won''t be able to open the wardrobe, right?"


    Of course, the whole Carson family knew about this. Everyone looked at me with a bit of disdain.


    Jude''s expression stiffened slightly, and his gaze towards me was clearly displeased.


    I knew I embarrassed him. But what else could I do?


    "You''re right, Aunt Mireille. I really don''t have the right to use things around the house freely." I smiled at Mireille and nodded to the others with a smile.


    At that moment, Ewan coughed heavily and waved at me. "Ada,e sit here. I heard you went back to work at thepany? Why be so hard on


    yourself?"


    liked me getting involved in the business world but believed women should focus on being wives and mothers.


    and I didn''t want to raise kids. I obediently sat next to Ewan and listened quietly as they talked about businesses.


    The daughter of a bankrupt family really has no manners, making the elders wait for her at a family gathering?"


    too, "Exactly. Such an important family gathering and she''s not wearing even a decent dress or jewelry? Outrageous!"


    While, Jude just sat there quietly, listening to his family gang up on me.


    I was actually used to it now, he''d always been like this towards me.


    But this time, I didn''t want to hold back. I looked up, ncing at Mireille''s ne around her neck, and raised an eyebrow. "Better to have no jewelry than fake ones. Auntie Mireille, your emerald looks about the same as a beer bottle."


    Before my family went bankrupt, my mom wore plenty of expensive jewelry. I could tell real emerald from fake at a nce.


    Among the generation of Ewan, only he managed to rise to prominence, while his two other brothers relied on his reputation to secure a meager business opportunity.


    Bodhi took over the business from his dad but had been barely making ends meet, so they often came for handouts with Ewan.


    Now that Mireille''s jewelry was all fake, I jeckoned they were running low on funds.


    17:00 Thu, 8 May GO


    She red at me. "What are you bbering about? What would someone from a small family like yours know? You..."


    "Ugh..." Before she could finish, a wave of nausea hit me, and I quickly ran to the bathroom, covering my mouth.


    I was actually kind of proud before, thinking chemo wouldn''t make me feel bad, but I was wrong.


    I threw up so hard in the bathroom that I felt dizzy.


    ÁÖÆø30%•þ


    Suddenly, someone handed me a cup of warm water. I didn''t even have time to


    say thanks before epting it and rinsing my mouth quickly.


    "What''s going on?" Jude looked at me suspiciously, seeming a bit worried.


    I waved it off, replying, "Just an upset stomach."


    He didn''t press further and had the maid bring me another cup of warm water.


    After drinking it, I finally managed to suppress the nausea.


    Meanwhile, he just watched me quietly and suddenly asked, "Why didn''t you ask me to open the wardrobe?"


    1ughed coldly, "Jude, isn''t that ridiculous? I need your permission just to wear a piece of clothing.


    "Every time I call Veronica, her tone and attitude, you should hear it yourself. You don''t feel embarrassed, but I do." I tossed the cup aside, not even bothering to nce at him.


    He grabbed my wrist, gentler this time. "No wonder you''re so skinny, just take a sick leave if you''re not feeling well. Why..."


    "You didn''t let me take leave, forced me toe back. Don''t you remember?" I tried to shake off his hand, but he didn''t let go.


    He seemed to recall the past too, momentarily at a loss for words.


    We stood there in a stalemate until Aunt Juno walked over with a smile. "Ada, don''t me Mireille; after all, you''re part of the Carson family now and


    can''t afford to lose face.


    +15


    "It''s fine among family, but what if there are outsiders? That would be a disgrace for the Carson family."


    Juno was always a velvet paw; I gave her a smile, not wanting to say more.


    After she left, Jude''s gaze fell on my neck, and he sighed. "It won''t happen again."


    I turned to look at him, puzzled.


    He added, "From now on, you can use the wardrobe and jewelry box as you like. They''re all yours, no need to ask me anyone."


    But I gave him a calm smile, refusing, ¡°No. I don''t need them."


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    May


    30%


    Chapter 29 Chapter 29

 Chapter 30

    "You''ve lost your mind again, haven''t you?" Jude said.


    Jude didn''t even bother turning around. It was obvious he didn''t want to revisit this conversation.


    "I said I want a divorce," I repeated.


    He didn''t love me anymore. Maybe he''d finally found someone he loved.


    I couldn''t understand why he was still holding on-unless this was some drawn-


    out punishment for leaving him all those years ago. But hadn''t three years been enough?


    I left him for two years; he mocked our marriage for three years. I figured that made us even.


    If we ended things now, we could still part with dignity-no debts left between us. When he finally turned to look at me, there was a hard edge in his eyes.


    "Ada," he snapped, "what kind of stunt is this?"


    "A divorce?" he echoed with a loud voice. "You did this for my attention? Didn''t I do enough?"


    I couldn''t even begin to guess what he meant.


    Had I missed some act of devotion he thought he''d performed?


    Was it the way he paraded his mistress into our home, then dragged me along to y wife at a family dinner?


    If that was him trying-then yes, it was more than enough.


    But before I could voice that, another wave of nausea rolled over me.


    I bolted to the bathroom and vomited until there was nothing left but bile.


    I hadn''t eaten much that evening, and even the sourness in my throat eventually gave way to sheer exhaustion.


    Jude followed me in, patting my back, pressing water into my hands.


    I could feel how tense he was, maybe even worried, but I couldn''t make out a


    single word he said. It was like trying to listen underwater.


    And then he picked me up. "I''ll take you to hospital."


    4 struggled weakly in his arms. "Put me down. I''m not going to the hospital."


    What was the point? it was just the side effects of chemo, and this was only going to get worse.


    But he was impatient. He held on tighter, carrying me toward the door.


    That''s when his phone rang-the specific ringtone/l recognized instantly. Vivian.


    He hesitated. I saw it in his face, the brief pause in his step. Then he put me down, pulled out his phone, and answered.


    ¡°Jude,¡± Vivian''s voice broke through the quiet, trembling, on the edge of tears, ¡°do you really not want me anymore? Don''t you love me? Because I still love you-l still want you."


    Her voice, softer now, dripped with need, "You''re with her, aren''t you? Going to meet the family?",


    Thu, 8 May


    5


    §à


    And then came the hook. "I''m at a bar... there''s this man who won''t stop staring at me. I''m scared, Jude. Please."


    Jude stood frozen.


    17:01


    30%


    +15)


    I saw the guilt flicker across his face before he bit down hard on his lip and said


    into the phone, "Send me the address. I''m on my way."


    I didn''t say a word as I sank onto the sofa, covering my face with one hand.


    I couldn''t stand to look at him-couldn''t stomach watching him worry over another woman.


    He grabbed his coat, his voice tight. "Ada... Wait for me, alright? I''ll take her


    home, thene back and drive you to the hospital."


    Augh escaped me-dry, humorless. I didn''t answer.


    I knew. He wasn''ting back.


    The dizziness crept in like a tide. My limbs felt heavy, my head too light.


    The doctor had warned me-if the side effects got worse, I might lose consciousness.


    I pressed my palms to my temples, eyes already swimming with blurred light. And


    then I saw him, standing at the door.


    "Jude." His name left my lips in a whisper.


    He paused just for a second. Then he opened the door and walked out.


    A hollow smile tugged at the corner of my mouth. Of course, he wouldn''t stay-not


    for me.


    Somewhere between waking and fading, I managed to call Casey.


    A small, desperate hope that she''d catch the signal. If not... well, I''d be


    unconscious by morning and possibly dead by noon.


    When I woke up in the hospital, I could''ve cried with relief. Apparently, my


    paranoid streak had saved me-I''d given Casey the code to my apartment weeks


    ago.


    She sat by my bed, red-eyed and fuming. "That bastard left you? Alone? What the hell is wrong with him?!"


    She cried while she cursed him out, furious and heartbroken on my behalf.


    Turned out she''d been asleep when I called. She only saw the missed call when


    she got up to the restroom in the middle of the night.


    By the time she reached my ce, it was nearly dawn.


    Unsurprisingly, Jude had nevere back.


    ¡°Liar,¡± I muttered, eyes cast low. "Said he''d take me to the hospital."


    I lowered my head silently. "Casey, sorry for making you worry."


    "You shouldn''t be apologizing to me!" Casey shot back, her voice rising. "I was the


    one sleeping like a brick!"


    The doctor came in then, eyes scanning my chart with a furrowed brow.


    "Ms. Watson," he said gently, "you really need yest. And someone with you.


    "This is a recurrence, and we can''t afford to take chances. During chemo, you should have someone at home-family, ideally,"


    Casey''s hand shot up. "I''ll do it. She''s moving in with me. Today."


    17:01 Thu, 8 May Go


    I was about to refuse, but she turned those tear-filled eyes on me, furious and


    stubborn.


    ÁÖÀä30%ºÏ


    She insisted, "You''re eithering home with me, or I''m staying at yours. Your


    call. And don''t test me I''ll camp under your desk at work if I have to."


    I gave it some thought. I did have other ces I could go... I just didn''t want to.


    "Fine," I murmured. "Come with me. I''ll pack."


    Casey let out a breath like she''d been holding it for hours.


    The doctor confirmed I was stable enough to leave but reminded me firmly, "You''ll need someone to act as your medical proxy. In your condition, some decisions may fall to next of kin."


    I shook my head. "I can write an authorization. Casey will handle everything from now on."


    Once I filed for divorce, Jude wouldn''t be considered family anymore.


    Casey drove us back to my ce, ranting about Jude the entire ride.


    Net her go. There wasn''t much left to say-I''d known the kind of man he was for a long time.


    But I hadn''t expected toe home to this.


    At the front door, I noticed a pair of women''s slippers. Mine-the white ones-were


    gone.


    Vivian strolled out of my walk-in closet, smug and sparkling, three nes


    looped around her neck, and her arms full of my things.


    I stared at her, cold and silent. "Who the hell let youe here?"

 Chapter 31

    "Who else could it be but Jude?" Vivian slipped off a pair of earrings, her smile brimming with smug satisfaction.


    She sneered. "We''re going to a dinner party tonight. Obviously, I can''t show up looking like a mess. Jude asked me to pick something elegant.


    "I mean, you''ve barely worn most of these dresses, so I figured why let them go to waste?


    "If it weren''t for the tight schedule now, I would ask Jude to buy new ones for me."


    She carefully dropped the earrings into her purse, then began slipping on piece after piece of my jewelry like she was in her own closet.


    Casey stepped forward, but I held her back.


    "Leave it." I murmured softly, trying to calm her down.


    "Leave it?" she hissed, her eyes zing with anger. "She''s practically spitting in your face. I swear to God, I''ll knock her out."


    But I shook my head calmly and pulled out my phone.


    If Jude had really allowed his mistress to walk into my home like she owned it, then I deserved to hear it from him.


    And if he agreed to the divorce-perfect. We could finally stop tormenting each other.


    The call didn''t even ring. I tried again. Still nothing.


    A malicious smile shed across Vivian''s face. Her smirk said it all.


    And just like that, I understood-Vivian had used Jude''s phone to block me.


    She ran a hand through her hair, tossing it back like she''d just imed her crown.


    She taunted, "You still need permission to wear these dresses. I don''t."


    She said, adjusting a ne in the mirror. "Love makes things simple. And let''s face it-he loves me. Do you really think you can win against that?"


    Casey lost it. She tossed her bag to the side and rolled up her sleeves, shouting, "You bitch, I''m going to make you regret being born."


    I grabbed her arm, my voice sharp as Imanded, "Casey, don''t."


    "No way. Not this time-" she protested defiantly.


    But the look I gave her stopped her cold.


    Then i did something I hadn''t done in years. I pinched my arm, hard, until tears welled in my eyes. With shaking fingers, I dialed 911.


    "Yes, hello? Someone broke into my apartment. She''s taking my things. Please can you send someone right away?" I pleaded into the phone.


    Both Casey and Vivian froze.


    I didn''t wait.


    While they stood stunned, I yanked Casey out the door with me, mmed it shut, and activated the smart lock''s security mode.


    No one was getting back in unless I said so.


    Vivian started pounding on the door like madwoman, screeching, "Ada, you crazy old hag! Have you lost your mind?"


    17:01 Thu, 8 May G


    "You think you can treat me like this? Jude won''t let you get away with it!" she raged.


    "Open the door! Now!" she demanded, her voice filled with fury.


    I didn''t respond.


    Just sat down beside Casey, who gave me a slow, admiring nod andplimented, "That... was amazing."


    Texhaled wearily and exined. "You can''t argue with people like her. Gotta go straight for the point."


    My physical condition didn''t permit a direct sh with her, so I decided to leave it to the police.


    I figured as long as I didn''t care about potential embarrassment, it would be Jude and Vivian who ended up looking bad.


    She kept yelling. After a while, I heard ss shattering from inside.


    Tactually smiled.


    Great, now the damage might be enough to press charges.


    ÁÖ½ð30%•þ


    Unfortunately, she didn''t go full demolition. After breaking a few things, she


    must''ve panicked. Then came the fake sobbing and frantic phone calls.


    I could hear her whining at Jude through the door, ming everything on me.


    kept my face nk. I didn''t even flinch until the police arrived. And then, just like that, I let the tearse again.


    knew I was good at pretending.


    The officers confirmed my ownership of the apartment and turned toward Vivian with a much cooler tone, stating firmly, "You don''t live here, ma''am. You were trespassing."


    "But Mr. Carson said I could take these things! They''re not all hers," she snapped, pointing at the jewelry, her face contorted with indignation. "And she attacked me! Look at my arm!"


    She held it up dramatically-just enough to show the shallow cut from broken ss.


    Before I could say a word, Casey stepped up andunched into a shouting match that ended with all three of us being taken to the station.


    It was only then that Jude finally decided to show up.


    He walked straight to Vivian and wrapped her in his arms, murmuring softly as she pretended to cry.


    And then he growled at me, "Ada, what the hell is wrong with you? You actually hit her?"


    He felt extremely heartbroken when he saw her distress.


    15


    Even the officer seemed unimpressed. "Sir, it''s a minor injury. And both women here im they neverid a hand on her," the officer exined matter-of-factly


    Jude''s expression darkened. "Are you serious? She''s hurt, and you''re ming her? What kind of cops are you?" he snapped angrily.


    "Regardless," the officer replied tly, "she entered a private residence without permission. That''s a crime,"


    "She said your husband told her she could take things," he turned to me and added, ¡°is that true? Can you call your husband and let him rify?"


    Jude and Vivian froze at the words.


    Casey narrowed her eyes at them, practigally vibrating with rage.


    17:01 Thu, 8 May G.


    I didn''t say anything for a moment-just gave a small, hollowugh and pointed at


    Jude, stati

 Chapter 32

    For a moment, the entire precinct fell into a strange silence.


    The young female officer who''d spoken to me earlier had just returned from her patrol. Spotting us, she pulled another officer aside and whispered something quickly, her eyes darting our way.


    I knew the police wouldn''t do much with a domestic dispute at most, they''d mediate.


    As long as Jude backed her up, Vivian could probably get away with anything short of arson.


    But I wasn''t going to just let it slide. She wanted to parade around in front of me? Fine. Let''s make it a show.


    And Jude still didn''t want a divorce, which only made it easier to push back.


    People were beginning to take notice. Curiosity red in their eyes as they looked our way.


    Casey scoffed under her breath, muttering, "Ada, he''s only your husband on paper now.


    "Letting the side chick walk into your home like she owns it-what a scumbag. Disgusting."


    For whatever reason, the precinct was especially crowded today.


    I bowed my head slightly and dabbed at the corner of my eye, wiping away nonexistent tears, feigning sadness.


    A couple of middle-aged women nearby couldn''t help themselves.


    One of them eximed indignantly, "You''ve got to be kidding me. A girl that young stealing someone''s husband? Shameless."


    The other chimed in, "She''s probably just in it for the money. Look at the wife-so in. And the other one''s decked out like it''s fashion week."


    Another onlooker joined the chorus, "That man''s face screams bad news. Total trash, both of them."


    Their outrage snowballed. One after another, they joined in, all of them siding with me, their righteous fury echoing through the room.


    Jude''s face darkened. He kept his eyes on me, rigid and silent, his jaw clenched. Vivian began to crumble under the weight of so much public contempt.


    Her pout turned sour, and her voice came out strained as she retorted, "I''m not the other woman! The one who isn''t loved is the real homewrecker!"


    She continued, raising her voice defensively, "You think you know anything? They hadn''t had feelings for each other in ages! She''s the one clinging on, refusing to let go of my boyfriend!"


    The more she tried to exin, the worse it sounded.


    Eventually, a weary officer ushered us into a private room.


    He started, sighing, "This really seems like a civil matter," and then added, "and without clear financial damages-"


    "She broke one of my vases! I said calmly, looking down and idly twisting my ring, my tone matter-of-fact.


    "It''s antique. Worth a few thousand dors, easily. Should be enough to open a case, don''t you think?" I asked,


    The officer blinked, clearly not expecting me to go there, his eyebrows shooting up in surprise.


    Vivian red again, her voice full of contempt as she sneered, "Oh, please. That vase? Everything in that house was bought with Jude''s money. What did you ever contribute? Could you even afford something like that?"


    30%


    +15


    Vivian was still arrogant. With Jude''s affection, she truly had the confidence to act that way.


    I finally looked up at her, my expression cool, and countered, "Doesn''t matter if I never made a dime. It''s still marital property. You don''t have the right to touch it.


    "And for the record, you walked out with my jewelry. Even if Jude and I split, those pieces legally belong to the wife. Isn''t that right?"


    I turned to the officer, who gave a hesitant nod.


    "Vivian, the jewelry you took-easily worth tens of thousands. Now tell me, doesn''t


    that sound like a major theft charge?" I questioned, my gaze fixed on


    her.


    Casey was squeezing my hand, her grip trembling with excitement.


    I could tell she hadn''t expected this version of me-the one who didn''t flinch, who fought back without yelling.


    The officer frowned, clearly realizing this wasn''t as simple as he''d hoped.


    "Alright, let''s try mediation first. If that fails, we''ll proceed ordingly." He stepped out, and the room chilled.


    Vivian clung to Jude''s arm, pouting and whining. But he kept his eyes on me.


    He stared for a long time before letting out a short, humorlessugh. "Ada, I should''ve known. You''ve always loved money."


    His voice was biting as he added, "You ran off with that rich kid abroad and dumped me without a second thought. Now you''re after my money again. Is there anything you won''t do for a dor?"


    I nodded slightly. He wasn''t wrong.


    But before I could say anything, Casey shot up from her seat.


    She snapped, jabbing a finger at him, "You''ve got some nerve bringing up the past," and continued, "Do you even know what really-"


    "Casey," I cut her off, tugging her gently back down, my voice firm. "Let it go." "There''s nothing more to say," I murmured. "What happened is what happened." She looked at me, frustration clear on her face, but didn''t speak again. Some truths are better left buried. Especially now, when everything between us was already scorched beyond recognition.


    But Jude narrowed his eyes. Something about our exchange had rattled him. He asked, his voiceced with suspicion, "What happened back then?" "What do you think?" looked at him, my voice devoid of emotion. "I chased a richer man. I left you. Isn''t that enough?"


    His hands curled into fists. "You-" he began, his face reddening with anger.


    Vivian clung to him tightly. "Jude, none of that matters anymore. Let''s just move on. Please."


    She turned toward me, voice thick with tears, and begged, "What do you even want from me?"


    She turned toward me, voice thick with tears, and begged, "What do you even want from me?"


    "You''re insane!" she shrieked.


    Jude wrapped his arms around her protectively, trying to soothe her.


    8 May


    5


    When he looked back at me, his expression was weary. "Come on, Ada. She was


    just at the house. Was that really necessary?" he asked.


    30%


    +15


    I raised a brow. "She broke into my home, Jude. Or wait-did you give her permission? Did you tell her to take my jewelry, my dresses? You are partners in crime, right?"


    His expression froze. He looked between us, slowly putting the pieces together.


    Vivian went pale. "There was a dinner... I didn''t want to embarrass you. I thought-" she stammered.


    She never finished. She didn''t need to. We all knew exactly what she''d done.


    It seemed that she didn''t get the order.


    Jude''s chest rose and fell, breath shallow, as he stared at her.


    I waited. I wanted to see how he''d spin this.


    Finally, he let out a long breath and turned back to me. He said tly, "Sixty


    grand,¡± and then added, "And we drop all of this."


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 Chapter 33

    The room went still the moment Jude''s offer left his mouth.


    ÁÖ»á30%ºÏ


    +15


    Casey mmed her palm against the desk and shot to her feet, her voice filled


    with indignation. "Seriously? You''d throw your wife under the bus like that -for her?"


    Vivian flinched like she''d been hit, instantly curling into Jude''s chest like a frightened kitten, her body trembling slightly.


    They looked perfect together, really. A picture of passion and drama.


    Out of all the women Jude had entertained over the years, Vivian was clearly his favorite.


    I couldn''t help thinking about what she''d said earlier-the unloved one is the real homewrecker-and the absurdity of it made meugh, a soft, mirthless chuckle escaping my lips.


    Casey turned sharply toward me, rmed, her eyes wide with concern. "Ada... are you okay? You''re scaring me."


    Wiping away tears¡ªofughter¨CI shook my head, still grinning faintly. ¡°I''m fine. Sixty thousand? Sure."


    Pulling out my phone, I held up the payment QR code toward him like I was handing over a receipt, my tone casual. "Scan away."


    Jude just stared, frozen, like he couldn''t quite process what was happening, his eyes wide with disbelief.


    That confusion gave way to something else-disappointment, maybe-but it all settled into raw, impotent fury.


    He shot to his feet so quickly that Vivian nearly toppled over, his voice booming with anger. "So that''s it? It''s always about money with you, isn''t it?"


    *To you, love means nothing unless there''s a dor sign attached. Is that it?" he roared.


    I stayed silent, watching as the officer tried to calm things down, as Vivian clung to him with tears in her eyes, and as Casey murmured curses under her breath like she might throw something, her face red with anger.


    And for once, I didn''t feel like saying anything at all.


    Once, I might''ve told him, You were my whole world. But that version of me didn''t exist anymore.


    Pushing my phone toward him again, I kept my voice low, a hint of steel in my tone. "Keep talking, and it won''t just be sixty grand anymore. Scan it.¡±


    He scanned. My phone chimed with the transaction notification, and with that little sound, it was done.


    i stood up slowly, letting the moment settle, a sense of finality washing over me.


    Jurning to the officer, I said simply, my voice matter-of-fact, "This is over. I won''t be filing anything."


    I looked at Casey. "Let''s go," Imanded softly.


    With the money secured, there was no reason to stay and watch their romantic performance.


    But Vivian wasn''t ready to let me leave just yet.


    She stepped in front of me, arms crossed, lips trembling, her voiceced with venom. "I get it. You don''t like me. But deep down, you know you''ve already lost. You''re the failure in this rtionship."


    "As a wife, what exactly have you done besides beg Jude for money?" she sneered, her eyes shing with contempt.


    "Let''s see... I''ve confronted the mistress and filed a police report. Not bad," I retorted, my voice cool and collected,


    §à


    30%


    15


    I looked at her sarcastically, wondering where she got her confidence.


    I tilted my head, eyes locked on hers, my gaze unwavering. "Thing is, he chose to give me that money. But you? You stole from me."


    Reaching over, I snatched her handbag, dug through it, and pulled out the jewelry I''d been missing, a satisfied look on my face.


    Funny, I''d almost forgotten about it.


    Grabbing a stic bag off the desk, I calmly dropped the pieces inside individually.


    "These are mine," I said, turning to the officer again, my tone firm. "I assume I''m allowed to take back my own property?"


    Before he could answer, Jude stepped in, voice low. "You''re still Mrs. Carson. That jewelry was always yours."


    "As long as you stop acting out, that title won''t change. No one can take your ce," he added, his eyes fixed on me.


    Vivian''s eyes welled with tears, but Jude didn''t even look at her. His gaze was still fixed on me, as if he was trying to burn some kind of message into my


    skin.


    I rolled my eyes. Was this his idea of being romantic?


    Just as I reached the door, Vivian''s body crumpled behind me.


    I turned my head just in time to see Jude scoop her into his arms.


    What a show.


    The scorned wife tearing apart the star-crossed lovers. I guess that made me the viin.


    1 turned back to Casey. "Let''s go. We still had stuff to pack," I said, my


    voice


    weary.


    I didn''t want to stay with them.


    Even in the car, Casey couldn''t let it go.


    Her hands clenched the steering wheel. "That bastard''s brain must be broken. What the hell was that?


    "And Vivian? Ada, don''t tell me you didn''t notice-she''s been copying your style from college. The hair, the way she talks-everything."


    "It''s disgusting" she ranted, her voice rising in pitch.


    I listened to herints in silence and tried to soothe her.


    "You''re not even mad?" she asked, baffled, her eyes darting to me.


    "What''s there to be mad about? I got the money. That''ll cover my treatment, won''t


    it?" I replied, my voice steady.


    I nced at her, confused. "I want the money, not the man. That''s a win in my


    book."


    She didn''t know how to respond to that. Just bit the gas and let the silence stretch.


    Back home, I packed quietly. Dropped the jewelry onto the coffee table without so


    much as a nce, my movements mechanical.


    I didn''t need any of it. I just didn''t want Vivian jo have it.


    Then, I changed the lock code and sent the new one to Jude.


    Everything in its ce, I turned to Casey./"Let''s go," I said again.


    17:01 Thu, 8 May


    "You''ll stay with me," she said, her tone insistent. "I rented a new ce. Easier to


    take care of you that way."


    "I''ve got another apartment," I replied, shing her a wink, a glimmer of mischief


    in my eye.


    She blinked at me. "You what? When?" she eximed, her voice filled with


    surprise.


    Texined, my voice softening. "Not mine my mom''s."


    Before she passed, I bought it under her name.


    It was a tiny ce, but it was my home because my mom was there.


    Casey didn''t love that idea. She worried I''d spiral being back there alone.


    After some back and forth, I promised her I''d just go check it out, clean up a little, and then decide.


    * 30%


    We arrived to find the ce abandoned by time. Dust covered every surface. One step inside, and we were both coughing, choking on the thickyer of dust


    Casey yanked me back out, her voice filled with concern. "No way. I''ll get someone to clean it. You''re staying with me tonight."


    I nodded, but my eyes lingered on that cramped little space, a sense of nostalgia washing over me.


    It was dusty and small, sure. And for now, it was where I felt safe.


    But it was where my mother had spent her final days. Maybe it could be home


    again.


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 Chapter 34

    5


    Back at Casey''s tiny rented apartment, I finally felt like I could breathe again.


    With Jude''s presence scrubbed from every corner, even the air felt cleaner.


    Casey was bustling around-ordering takeout, rinsing fruit, trying everything she could think of to keep me fed and functioning.


    When she started searching online for sea cucumbers, I quickly reached out to stop her.


    30%


    +15


    "Please don''t waste perfectly good sea cucumber on me," I said, chuckling slightly. "Eggs will do just fine. Sea cucumbers don''t even taste like anything."


    She narrowed her eyes at me, suspicious, and quipped, ¡°You trying to say my cooking sucks?"


    I met her gaze without flinching, nodding firmly.


    She huffed, lips twitching, and retorted, "Says the woman who burns instant noodles. We''re a disaster match made in heaven."


    That got a realugh out of me. The kind that came from the gut-rare these days.


    Then I straightened, my smile fading, and dered, "Casey, I need you to help me find a divorcewyer."


    She stared at me for a moment, trying to read my expression, and then asked tentatively, "You''re really not going to tell him, are you? If he knew the


    truth.... he''d lose it."


    I shook my head. I wasn''t going to tell him.


    I''d made sure he''d never find me again-didn''t want him burdened with guilt or obligation.


    And now, when there wasn''t even love left between us, what was the point in dragging it out?


    "Ada..." Casey said softly, her voice filled with concern, "If you go through with the divorce, and he finds outter-he''s going to hate himself for the rest


    of his life."


    She knew everything that had happened between us. To her, I was the one getting the short end of the stick.


    But in my eyes, if the truth came out, both of us would be the ones left bleeding.


    I said, "He doesn''t love me anymore, Casey. And if all we have left is pity, then what kind of future are we even fighting for?"


    I looked down at my hands, sighing. "Honestly, I haven''t loved him in years."


    I took a breath, steadying myself, and continued, "Right now, I just want to live.


    Get through treatment. Who knows-maybe I''ll be a miracle case."


    Thest part barely made it past my lips because even I didn''t believe it.


    I still hated him, yes. But a part of me... still cared.


    How much, I wasn''t sure.


    But the remnants of that feeling were enough to make me want to end this before it turned uglier.


    Casey pulled me into a hug and nodded resolutely, "Alright. I''ll find you the best damnwyer in the city. We''re done with him."


    I lowered my gaze. Truth was, I never should''ve started again with Jude in the first ce.


    If not for that one desperate moment, I never would''ve let him back in.


    17:01


    Thu, 8 May


    30%


    +15


    Maybe because the way we ended before had been so messy, I''d be a loose thread he couldn''t quite snip off.


    But now he had someone else. He should be able to let me go.


    He didn''t call me at all that day-not even a text.


    I figured Vivian''s little fainting spell must''ve kept him busy. His precious new love


    had passed out in his arms, after all. Why would he care about the wife he no longer acknowledged?


    Honestly, I didn''t mind staying at Casey''s. I even offered to split the rent. Seemed like a good ce to settle for a while.


    The next morning at work, I felt surprisingly energized.


    Turns out even terminal patients perk up with the right peace of mind.


    Unfortunately, the same couldn''t be said for the design department-something was clearly off.


    I only knew the truth when Ellen came to my desk looking pale and stricken.


    "Ada," she said, her voice quivering, "we can''t reach Mr. Carson. He''s not answering his phone, and the Elitara Group is already here. What should we


    do?"


    "No one else could sign the documents," she continued, her eyes pleading, "and no one greeted them. We..."


    Ever since the whole Jude mess, the team had been tiptoeing around anything to do with him unless they absolutely couldn''t help it.


    The cooperation with the Elitara Group had not been finalized yet, so everyone was anxious.


    4 stood and adjusted my shirt, saying reassuringly, "It''s alright. The project''s our responsibility anyway-I''ll go."


    Elien nodded, biting her lip nervously.


    When I stepped into the conference room, the look on the client''s face told me everything. Cassian Merritt was angry.


    "I''m so sorry, Mr. Merritt. I should''ve been here sooner," I said, smiling politely, trying to ease the tension.


    If we couldnd the Elitara Group, I wouldn''t have to worry aboutmissions for the next two years.


    I''d happily put up with his bad mood for that.


    Unfortunately, he wasn''t in the mood to let me off the hook.


    "You and Mr. Carson must be very busy people," he said coolly, his toneced with sarcasm. "Too busy to remember you had a meeting with me, it seems."


    Of course it was Jude who set up the meeting and then didn''t show.


    I gritted my teeth but kept the smile, exining. "Something came up. He he really couldn''t make it."


    "Then call him," Cassian snapped, pointing directly at me, his voice harsh. "Right now. Let''s see just how busy he really is."


    Everyone else had their heads down, not daring to breathe too loudly. I pulled out


    my phone and called Jude.


    It was the same this time.


    I''d almost forgotten-he''d blocked me.


    I lied to him. ¡°Mr. Merritt, 1-his phone''s off. He must be tied up with something"


    5


    Before I could finish, he pulled out his own phone and held it up for me to see.


    ÁÖÃü30%ºÏ


    "You think I haven''t tried?" he snapped, his face reddening with anger. "Look-I''ve


    called him a dozen times. This is how little he respects my time."


    As he waved his phone in frustration, he identally hit the dial button. A few secondster, someone answered.


    "Mr. Merritt, I just arrived downstairs. I''m terribly sorry please wait a moment," said Jude.


    The room went dead silent.


    A momentter, before Jude walked in with Vivian on his arm, Cassian broke a


    ss and used, "So you are messing with me?


    "Are you seriously wasting my time like this?"


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 Chapter 35

    The shattering cup broke into pieces, shards scattering across the floor-one of them slicing right to my shin.


    Ellen gasped nearby, her hands flying to her mouth, while Cassian froze mid-


    motion. He hadn''t meant to take it that far; I could tell.


    It was anger, not malice.


    ±¾½ð30%•þ


    And right then, Jude pushed the door open. Vivian shot me a cold nce, her


    fingers deliberately brushing over the diamond ne at her neck.


    Jude strode in, his face taut with displeasure. ¡°I asked you to go over the proposal with Mr. Merritt. Couldn''t even manage that?"


    Then turning to Ellen, he snapped, "Why are you just standing there? Go get the first aid kit."


    155


    I caught Ellen''s arm before she could move, brushing away the blood with a tissue, and said firmly, "It''s fine. Just a scratch. Let''s get back to the meeting


    -this deal matters."


    There was no point in airing dirtyundry.


    For me, the sting in my leg was nothingpared to losing the project.


    Vivian, decked out in thetest designer dress and jewelry that didn''t quite match her usual style, beamed at Cassian.


    She cooed sweetly, "Mr. Merritt, Mr. Carson asked me to get this for you. He remembered your pen lost a diamondst time you met, so we picked out a


    new est model."


    She slid the box across the table. Cassian nced at the pen, and his expression softened just slightly.


    Vivian didn''t exactly have a talent for handling clients, but a young, beautiful assistant shing a polite smile was still hard to turn down-especially when she clearly had Jude''s favor.


    Even Cassian could tell she wasn''t just another employee..


    She''d brought a whole spread of fruit and drinks too, ying the part of thedy of the house.


    The people Cassian brought with him kept stealing nces at me, trying to figure out where I fit into this picture.


    lignored them and went on presenting the project. When the meeting finally wrapped up, everyone seemed satisfied. I let myself exhale.


    But no sooner had Cassian left than Jude''s voice cut sharply through the air as he demanded, ¡°Ada, is it really that hard to handle your job properly? I thought this project was your area of expertise."


    I turned to face him, stating emotionlessly, "I didn''t know you''d scheduled a meeting."


    The Jude I used to know would never have pinned the me on someone else for his own oversight.


    Then, I noticed the glint of Vivian''s ne again. So that''s where they''d been- shopping. She must''ve wanted that ne badly enough to risk showing upte.


    Jude wouldn''t scold her, so I''d be the scapegoat.


    I wasn''t going to y along.


    "Mr. Merritt called you more than ten times," Isaid, calin but firm, "You didn''t pick up. That''s not on me."


    The assistant team must''ve tried reaching him, too


    So why hadn''t he answered?


    17:01 Thu, 8 May G


    look


    at Vivian-nervous now, eyes darting away-and the answer was obvious.


    A project was never going to outrank a luxury gift in her world.


    Jude''s re hardened as he countered, "You couldn''t have called me yourself? Exined the situation?"


    He knew full well he''d set a custom ringtone for me once.


    Now, it was just for Vivian.


    "You blocked my number," I replied evenly.


    I watched in silence as Jude pulled out his phone, casting a quick nce at


    Vivian, whose eyes were brimming with tears.


    ÁÖ¼Ò30%•þ


    +15)


    The next second, his voice shot up, sharp and furious. "Couldn''t you have borrowed someone else''s phone to call me? What are you, brain-dead?"


    Vivian, eyes glossy, tugged at his arm and whispered pleadingly, "Jude, let it go.


    We should really get back. There''s still a lot on our tes."


    She shot me a smug little look over her shoulder as they walked out, clearly pleased with the performance.


    I didn''t react.


    "Ada..." Ellen tugged gently on my sleeve, nodding toward the hallway.


    A few coworkers had gathered outside, pretending not to eavesdrop. They


    scattered the moment our eyes met.


    Didn''t matter. I was used to it by now.


    Everyone knew Jude had a revolving door of women-they just hadn''t seen him parade one through the office before.


    This was a first, but it made no real difference.


    My phone buzzed. Casey had already lined up awyer.


    I gave Ellen a brief rundown of work matters and left the building without looking back.


    This divorce had to happen. If I didn''t get out now, I''d be the one left picking up every broken piece.


    When I met with thewyer-Ophelia Wren-Iid everything out; the police reports, the online gossip about Jude''s love life, photos of his manypanions.


    I said, "And I''ve got witnesses. Surveince footage from the office can be pulled if needed."


    They had more than a few overly intimate interactions at the office-more than enough to serve as evidence of his infidelity during our marriage.


    Ophelia nced over the documents with a conflicted look and cautioned, "These could support your case, but they''re still circumstantial.


    "Proving infidelity in court without direct evidence is difficult. And frankly, catching him in the act is unrealistic."


    She paused, then added, "With assets of this size, any division will take time. I don''t see a scenario where he walks away with nothing.¡±


    ¡°I''m not asking for that,¡± I said quickly, my tone insistent. ¡°I just want out. But I''m not walking away with anything, either."


    I hadn''t earned much over the years, but treatment wasn''t cheap.


    Once we were divorced, Jude would probably push me out of thepany. I needed something to fall back on.


    Ophelia gave a slow nod and acknowledged, "Understood. You have a strong enough case to im at least half, It''ll take time, but it''s doable,"


    17:01 Thu, 8 May GO


    "I can''t wait that long," I said, shaking my head. "I need a minimum of ten thousand dors a month just for treatment.


    "If I make it another ten years-optimistically-I only need 1.5 million dors." Ophelia''s brow lifted in surprise, and she queried, "You''re certain?"


    "I am," I said quietly, my resolve unwavering. "I don''t want anything else. I just want a divorce."


    I''d made up my mind long before I got there. As long as I could get away from Jude, I didn''t need anything else. Not even him.

 Chapter 36

    After finalizing the details of the divorce suit with mywyer, I didn''t bother going back to the office. Instead, I made a detour to the small apartment where my mother used to live..


    Casey had already sent someone over to clean the ce, but theyout was still sparse, pretty much untouched since my mother left.


    Everything looked the same-except for the angry w marks etched into the headboard. Deep, jagged scratches. A cruel reminder of how much she


    must have suffered in that final stretch.


    The thought that I might one day be in that situation made my chest tighten. I couldn''t breathe and left in a hurry.


    Casey was workingte, so I cooked myself a vegetarian dinner and went to bed early.


    Just as I started drifting off, my phone buzzed-it was Jude calling.


    I declined the call without hesitation. Momentster, a WhatsApp video popped up.


    It was Jude, clearly drunk, slurring, stumbling. But the voice on the video wasn''t his.


    "Ada, can you pleasee get him?" Rafferty sounded exasperated. "He''s losing it."


    Jude snatched the phone and practically copsed into Rafferty''s arms, clinging to him like a child.


    I remembered how rare it was for him to drink in college-I used to think it was self-restraint. Later, I realized he just couldn''t handle it. When he drank


    too much, he unraveled.


    Rafferty sent me the address, which I forwarded directly to Vivian.


    Jude didn''t want to see me anyway-not really. The only person he wanted around was his darling little mistress.


    I slept soundly after that. Peaceful, even. Until an hourter, when Rafferty started blowing up my phone.


    His voice cracked in WhatsApp voice note. "Ada, please, I''m begging you. Jude hit someone. We''re at the station."


    I was wide awake before the message finished ying.


    Jude. Hit someone. Police station.


    The words didn''t even seem to go together in my brain.


    I was already pulling on my clothes when I called Rafferty back.


    He picked up instantly and shouted into the chaos, "Officer! Officer, his wife''s on


    her way. She''sing, right now!"


    "Ada, please just get here. It''s bad," he said.


    In the background, I could hear shouting Jude, Vivian, and another voice that


    tugged at something in my memory, though I couldn''t ce it.


    When I finally made it to the precinct, I froze in the doorway.


    Jude looked like he''d been dragged through a war zone.


    Bruises on his face, scrapes on his arm, hair a total mess, clothes stained. He sat slumped forward, head down, silent.


    Vivian was at his side, crying as she held onto him, but he didn''t respond.


    And across from him-sitting upright, cor torn, two buttons missing, but otherwise calm was Dorian Huxley.


    17:01 Thu, 8 May GO.


    We graduated from the same university.


    I hadn''t seen him since I left the country. And now here he was, apparently the


    one Jude had gotten into a fight with.


    "Dorian?" I blinked, taking a step closer.


    He turned to me with a soft, familiar smile. "It''s been a long time, Ada."


    His hand was swollen and red, but otherwise he looked fine. No blood, no bruises-nothing like Jude.


    Hearing my voice seemed to snap Jude out of his haze. He raised his head, speech slurred. "So you can see him, but not me?"


    ÁÖ½ð30%ºÏ


    He jabbed a finger toward Dorian, his face twisting. "Look what your precious


    Dorian did to me! I''m going to sue him. I swear to God, I''ll sue!"


    He tried to get up, but Vivian yanked him back down before he could cause another scene.


    The officer nced at him with zero patience.


    "You picked the fight," he said tly. "And now that the actual spouse is here, maybe we can resolve this like adults. This is a police station. I don''t care who you are-sit down and shut it."


    The officer cast a not-so-subtle nce between me and Vivian. It wasn''t hard to figure out what he meant.


    Apparently, everyone here was already clued in on Jude''s little soap opera.


    +15


    Dorian gave the pair of them a contemptuous look. "Married man, out screwing around with another woman, and now you''ve got the nerve to call your wife to clean up the mess?"


    His voice was still soft, still gentle, but his words hit hard. "You humiliate her in public, and she''s supposed to stand by you? Ada must''ve been blind to


    ever marry you."


    Something about that-maybe the word blind-sent Jude into a frenzy. He bolted to his feet.


    "That''s between me and my wife, you outsider!" he snapped, trying to lunge across the room.


    It took both me and Rafferty to shove him back into his seat. Vivian threw her arms around him, trying to calm him down.


    I turned to Dorian, desperate to defuse things. "Are you alright? Nothing broken, I hope?"


    "Should I take you to the hospital? You might have some internal bruising."


    I knew Jude could hit hard. Dorian had always been the calm, intellectual type- never the sort to throw punches.


    Dorian shook his head with a dry little chuckle. "Some people are good at sneaking around with women, but they can''t fight to save their lives."


    That one stung. Leven felt my face heat up.


    Vivian looked like she was about to say something, but I cut her off and pushed her back down into her seat. "Who even are you? Just shut up."


    "You-" Her eyes red, but i didn''t give her the satisfaction of a second nce.


    Instead, I looked at Jude. "So, what do you want to do? Get detained, or paypensation?"


    He stared at me, stunned. "You want me to pay?"


    I nodded, calm and precise, gesturing toward Dorian''s hand. "He hit you, sure. But look at his hand-it''s swollen."


    "Ada, you''re my wife!" Jude''s voice cracked, his fury boiling over. "And you''re taking his side?"


    17:01 Thu, 8 May


    GO


    He didn''t care that his face was bruised, didn''t even flinch from the pain as he


    roared.


    I just sighed, opened my bag, and pulled out the divorce papers.


    "Not for much longer," I said quietly, cing the folder in hisp. "Look over the


    terms. If you want to make any changes, tell mywyer."

 Chapter 37

    Jude''s gaze flickered with something between disbelief and fury.


    But it was Vivian who reacted first-swift and deliberate-snatching the divorce agreement right out of my hand.


    "Get out!¡± Jude exploded, shredding the papers like a man unraveling, eyes bloodshot as he red at me. "You''ve really outdone yourself, Ada!"


    I just smiled. I had expected this reaction.


    Without missing a beat, I reached into my bag and pulled out another copy. "No problem. I printed extras. You can tear up as many as you like-just let me know when you''re done."


    I was about to hand it over when I caught the cleaningdy staring at me with thinly veiled frustration. Quietly, I tucked the contract back into my bag. No need to make her night worse.


    "Ada," Jude snapped, voice thick with usation. "So you nned this all along, didn''t you?


    "I knew something was off. Dorian just happens to show up now? You two never cut contact, did you?"


    He took a step forward, eyes zing. "He chased after you in school, remember? And now what-he''s still pining after you? That''s why you''re doing this? You''re divorcing me for him?"


    His words sliced through the air like knives, wild and erratic, like he couldn''t decide whether to scream or sob.


    He stared at me stubbornly. His eyes were vicious, as if he wished he coulde up and tear me to pieces.


    Dorian didn''t hesitate-he stepped between us, calm but sharp. "You''re being ridiculous. Don''t project your own mess onto Ada. You think everyone cheats, just because you did?"


    He shot Jude a cold re. "If you had any decency at all, you''d stop dragging her through this and take some responsibility. Be a man, Jude-for once."


    I couldn''t remember ever seeing Dorian this angry. It caught me off guard.


    But when he turned to me and smiled, his expression softened. "Don''t worry. I''ve got this."


    I nodded instinctively.


    "Ada!" Jude barked, pointing at me as though he had any control left. "Get over here!"


    When he tried to grab my arm, Dorian caught his wrist midair.


    That''s when the officer walked over, clearly fed up. "What''s this now? Trying to hit your wife? Again?"


    Vivian rushed in to clutch at Jude''s arm, her voice panicked but still performative. "Jude, don''t... Just let it go."


    Her eyes darted to me. "Ada, can''t you say something on your husband''s behalf? Whose wife are you, anyway?


    "Are you just going to stand by?"


    She looked genuinely hurt-like I was the one tearing this family apart.


    It was almost impressive, the level of delusion./


    I tilted my head, voiceced with mock curiosity. "Vivian, whose wife are you,


    exactly? Why are you even here?"


    It was meant to shut her up-but it only lit a fire.


    30%


    "You seriously don''t know?" she snapped, tone rising with hysteria. "You clung to Jude like your life depended on it, forced that marriage, and now you''re the one running off, waving divorce papers just to get his attention?


    "You two don''t even love each other anymore-so let him go, Ada! Just let him go!"


    I shoved the contract into her hands. "If you''re so eager, why don''t you sign it?"


    Turning back to the officer, I exhaled sharply. "I don''t see much left to negotiate. Go ahead and press charges."


    Dorian nodded in agreement beside me. "He clearly isn''t interested in apologizing."


    "Apologize? In your dreams!" Jude lunged forward again, restrained only by Vivian''s desperate grip and the officer stepping in.


    "Really, Jude?" I narrowed my eyes. "You sure you wanna be locked up over this?"


    Jude froze. For a moment, he just stared at me, jaw tight, fists trembling.


    I met his stare and sighed. "You''ve got two options. Compensation-or custody."


    He clenched his teeth. Then, finally, he spat out, "Fine. Compensation."


    He ended up paying three thousand dors.


    Not much, but enough to bruise his pride.


    Of course, an actual apology was out of the question. Vivian ended up offering it for him.


    Dorian, always the gentleman, offered her nothing more than a cool nce. "Miss, you don''t get to speak for him. And frankly, I don''t care.


    "He''s not worth the time. But you should know-cheating in a marriage? That''ll cost him everything. Tell him to prepare for that."


    Vivian flushed crimson but didn''t say another word.


    I didn''t spare them a nce. My attention was already on Dorian. "Come on, I''l drive you home."


    He smiled and nodded, falling in step behind me.


    But just as we stepped outside, Jude came stumbling after us, blocking our path with wild eyes and a bruised, battered face.


    "Ada, where are you going?" His voice cracked. "Why won''t youe home with me?"


    He seemed to have blushed, but he was beaten so severely that it was impossible to tell.


    Behind him, Vivian trailed out in her heels, struggling to keep up. "Jude," she said softly, her tone almost shivering, "let''s go back. I''m cold."


    I looked at Jude, my voice like ice. "Take her home. We''ll leave."


    Vivian reached for his hand, but he yanked it away.


    His eyes stayed locked on me. "No. I want you toe with me. You''re not going anywhere."


    "Jude!" Vivian''s voice rose in panic.


    She knew as well as I did-if he walked away with me, she''d be left with nothing.


    But I was already shaking my head. "Take your little girlfriend and go back to your house, Jude. That ce hasn''t been mine for a long time,"


    Dorian had already slid into the passenger seat. I climbed in beside him without looking back.


    +15


    17:01 Thu, 8 May G.

 Chapter 38

    Dorian gave me the address to his apartment, and I keyed it into the GPS without a word.


    The car was silent except for the asional turn-by-turn from the navigation system.


    Neither of us spoke. Honestly, I was too embarrassed even to try.


    When we reached his building. Dorian didn''t get out right away. Instead, he turned to me.


    *


    29%


    "Ada, what exactly happened between you and Jude?" His voice was calm butced with concern. "I''ve been out of the country for years. All I knew was that you two got married."


    Topened my mouth and then closed it again.


    What was I supposed to tell him?


    That over thest three years, Jude had paraded woman after woman through our home?


    That my cancer hade back, and I had no idea how much time I had left.


    In the end, I just shook my head. "Dorian, it doesn''t matter anymore. I''m divorcing him. That''s all that counts.""


    And it was true. Divorce wasn''t just an option-it was inevitable. I had no intention of wasting the time I had left entangled in Jude''s mess.


    Dorian studied me for a long moment, then finally pulled out his phone."Alright. Add me. Text me your number."


    I did as he asked, watching as he walked into his building.


    Before disappearing inside, he messaged me on WhatsApp.


    Dorian: [Whatever you decide, I''m behind you. If he gives you trouble, just tell me. I''ll be there-anytime.]


    I stared at thosest few words, a strange ache blooming in my chest.


    Dorian had always been that way.


    Back in college, he knew I had a thing for Jude. Even when Jude barely


    acknowledged me, Dorian still chased after me, always showing up, always there,


    Everyone knew he liked me, but I pretended not to notice, keeping him at a distance.


    Still, he never gave up.


    When I finally started dating Jude, I remember hearing that Dorian had gotten drunk that night. One of his dormmates even called me, asking me to


    check in on him.


    I didn''t go. Thought it was inappropriate.


    Later, I got a text from a number i didn''t recognize: if you ever need anything, I''m here. Just tell me.)


    I didn''t find out it was from Dorian until after he graduated.


    He''d chased me for years, and I didn''t even haye his number.


    Thaye!


    I shook my head, trying to snap out of it. I needed to drive my brain was fried, and


    if I scratched Casey''s car, she''d have my head.


    Ingeded


    When I got home, I was hoping to find hey there, but the ce was empty,


    17:01 Thu, 8 May GO


    Still, I spotted a box of cream puffs on the table-definitely her doing. I smiled.


    She must''ve dropped by and rushed out again.


    Just thinking about her-and Dorian-brought a sudden sting to my eyes. Maybe I wasn''t such a failure after all.


    Sure, I''d chosen the wrong man, but my friends? They were good.


    I ended up eating the cream puffs and crashing on the couch.


    By the time I woke up the next morning, my neck was killing me. I stumbled into


    the bathroom to wash up, head tilted to one side.


    My phone buzzed as I brushed my teeth. Casey''s husky voice rang out over the speaker, urgent and full of static.


    "Ada, check the news. Right now. You went to the station yesterday? Is it true?" she asked.


    WhatsApp notifications exploded on my screen-one after another. My poor ears.


    I nced at the links she sent. They were all about Jude''s little scandal at the police station.


    Not only had someone snapped photos of him and Vivian, but there were also shots of me and Dorian.


    29%


    [Carson Family Scandal: CEO and Wife Arrive Separately with Their Alleged Lovers; ude Carson Allegedly Caught Cheating, Gets Beaten at Police Station; Public Image Shattered: The Fall of the "Devoted Husband"]


    Most of theizens seemed level-headed. After reading some breakdowns and receipts, it was clear to anyone with eyes that Jude had been cheating.


    Still, there were always trolls.


    [Maybe if the wife weren''t so bony and depressing, her man wouldn''t have strayed.]


    [Mrs. Carson showed up with her boy toy, too. Rich people really do y by their own rules.]


    He''s been trying to leave her for ages, but she''s clinging to his money. So pathetic.]


    started it, I had no idea-but somehow the narrative had twisted, and suddenly, I was the viin.


    on the other hand, had magically be some fearless, loye-driven heroine. mistresses could be role models, she was apparently top of the list. Reading some of thements, I could practically hear her voice behind them. The same smug, faux-innocent tone.


    I closed the browser.


    "Don''t worry about it," I told Casey. "It''s Jude''s scandal. It''ll hit the Carson family the hardest. Has nothing to do with me."


    And I believed that.


    Even when I got to the office and people stared at me like I was a walking tabloid headline, I didn''t flinch, I had work to do. Let them whisper.


    Better the dirtyundry got aired now no one could twist the story and make me the viin once the divorce papers were filed.


    Vivian strutted over to my deskter, practically glowing with self-importance.


    "Judy wants to see you. Upstairs. Hurry,"


    She said it like she owned the damn building.


    A few others chimed in, clearly on her side.


    Thu, 8 May


    10


    29%


    +15


    I got up and gave her a tight smile. "Appreciate it. With phones and WhatsApp these days, it must be tough having to run errands the old-fashioned way. Must be hard being an assistant."


    I didn''t wait for her reaction. I just headed upstairs.


    It wasn''t hard to guess what Jude wanted-probably to me me for the PR


    disaster.


    But instead of yelling, he told me to go home and change.


    "We''re going to Grandpa''s house," he said. "Don''t dress like a charity case."

 Chapter 39

    +15


    "No, this is fine. I''m busy." I shook my head quickly, no hesitation, firmly stating my refusal.


    Going back to that house? No thanks.


    Just thinking about Vivian standing in front of my closet, picking out clothes and jewelry like she belonged there-it made my stomach turn.


    It didn''t matter how expensive something was. Once it had been touched by someone like her, it just felt dirty.


    Jude looked me up and down, probably decided I was presentable enough, then stood up and walked out with me.


    People were definitely watching. I could feel their eyes on me the whole way.


    They were probably wondering what kind of trick I pulled to end up with Jude by my side again.


    Vivian, weirdly, didn''t show up to stir the pot today.


    Then I remembered the new watch she was wearing this morning. Right. That exined it.


    She had always been the selfish type-if she got her way, she was more than happy to back off.


    In that sense, maybe she was smarter than me.


    By the time we got to the estate, Ewan was already fuming. He didn''t waste time-


    just lit into Jude right in front of me, his voice booming with anger.


    In the Carson family, had always been seen as the responsible one.


    Even when Jude was out there being everyone''s favorite tabloid head line, I stayed clean and yed the good wife.


    So when thetest mess broke out, Ewan didn''t even bother asking questions. To him, it was obviously Jude''s fault.


    Eventually, he turned to me, his tonemanding, "You''re both going to attend the Carson Group anniversary next week. Dress appropriately."


    I blinked at him, stunned. People online were already predicting our divorce, and he wanted us to keep up appearances?


    Then he added, his words matter-of-fact, "When Jude married you, the public saw us in a better light. Thepany''s image had improved. That was not something we were willing to lose."


    He didn''t even try to sugarcoat it, stating bluntly, "Every marriage in this family mattered. You were representatives of the family. You both needed to act like it. Understand?"


    We didn''t say anything, but we both knew he was right.


    Ewan had backed Jude all this way¡ªif Jude''s reputation tanked, Ewan would go down with him.


    He mmed his cane on the floor, demanding, "Did you hear me? Do you understand?"


    "Yes," we said together, in unison.


    He gave a few more instructions, then finally let us go.


    On the ride back, I kept quiet, going over everything in my head. Every time I had showed up to these events, I had just been set dressing,


    The previous year, he had literally brought anodel to the g-walked in with her like I didn''t exist.


    This year...


    ? 29%??


    +15)


    I turned my head and caught Jude watching me.


    "What?" he snapped, clearly annoyed, his voiceced with irritation.


    I looked away, replying nothing.


    I didn''t owe him anything. I would go to the g, smile when I needed to, and


    then go home. This was for Ewan-myst bit of goodwill toward him.


    But Jude didn''t like that. He said, sneering, "Just don''t embarrass us. Stick to your role-Mrs. Carson."


    I shot him a look, retorting sharply, "As long as your dear Vivian behaved herself, I would too."


    I could fade into the background if I had to. But her? She was never going to settle for being anyone''s side piece.


    I still remembered her eyes when she had taken that divorce agreement at the police station-like she had just imed a prize.


    "She wasn''t like you," he said sharply, his tone defensive. "Vivian was straightforward.


    "Not maniptive. She didn''t obsess over money or make a scene. At least she hadn''t acted like she wanted a divorce and then backtracked in front of Grandpa."


    And just like that, Jude was no longer the ice-cold CEO everyone had feared. He was just some guy who couldn''t stopining, buzzing in my ear like a mosquito.


    "Stop the car," I said tly, my voice cold and determined.


    The driver hit the brakes. I threw the door open and stepped out before the car even came to a full stop.


    After a few steps, I reached into my bag, pulled out the divorce agreement, and tossed it into the back seat, dering, "You want a divorce? Then sign it."


    gged


    1 gged down a taxi. But before I could get in, Jude mmed the door shut.


    "What the hell are you doing?" I snapped, my voice rising in anger.


    This guy was seriously losing it. Back when I was the one chasing him, he couldn''t have cared less.


    Now that I was finally ready to walk away, he was suddenly clinging on.


    He hesitated, then said, "Come home."


    "I''m staying at Casey''s," I replied firmly.


    Jude took out some cash, handed it to the taxi driver, and waved him off.


    The car drove off, just like that.


    "Jude!" I eximed, my voice filled with frustration.


    "Ada! Are you seriously going through this? Why won''t youe home? And what was that about jewelry? You took it back just to throw it away?" he questioned, looking at me like I had betrayed him.


    "It had been touched by someone else. I didn''t want it. I thought it was dirty," I exined, my voice matter-of-fact.


    He froze, stunned. I didn''t stick around.


    Another taxi pulled up and I got in right away, telling the driver, "Please drive. My


    ex won''t stop following me."


    taway,


    The driver, a warm middle-aged wornan, stepped on the gas like she had been waiting for that cues


    On the way, she started giving me advice-telling me to protect myself, save evidence, not let anyone hurt me again.


    1 caught my reflection in the window and-yeah-I did look like someone who had been through hell.


    When we stopped, I tried to pay her, but she waved me off. "Take care of yourself. And don''t look back," she advised kindly.


    I thanked her, slipped some bills into the car anyway, and ran inside.


    And for a moment, I felt warm. Like the world wasn''t all bad after all.


    See, Jude? Even strangers knew when it was time to move on. And this time, I


    meant it. I wasn''t looking back.

 Chapter 40

    Maybe it was Ewan''s warning; Jude''d been unusually quiettely.


    Even when we crossed paths at the office, he would look the other way like I wasn''t even there.


    For a moment, I almost believed the storm had passed. Then Vivian reminded me who I was dealing with.


    ÁÖÄî29%•þ


    Elitara Group had peopleing in today. Not only did she "forget" to inform me,


    she actually left them sitting in the meeting room for over an hour.


    I only found out because Dorian messaged me on WhatsApp-he and his team had already been waiting ages.


    I rushed over, yanking open the door, and eximed in surprise, "Dorian-you''re with Elitara Group?"


    "I''m sorry, no one told me you were here. If you''d messaged me earlier, I''d havee straight to the meeting room."


    The way he was seated-center of the room, everyone else nking him-told me one thing: he wasn''t just part of the team. He was leading it.


    415


    And suddenly, I felt a little spark of relief. If Dorian was handling the project, everything just got easier. He was definitely more reasonable than Cassian.


    A young woman beside him shot me a re and snapped, "Seriously? Name dropping the second you walk in?"


    Another chimed in, arms folded, and questioned, "First you made Mr. Merritt wait, and now it''s Mr. Huxley. Are we supposed to take this as some kind of power y?"


    I put on my best corporate smile, bowing my head slightly as I apologized. Dorian helped smooth things over, which eased the tension-just barely.


    Then Ellen swept into the room with two trays stacked high with coffee cups. "Apologies, everyone-Mrs. Carson insisted on this specific caf¨¦. Said it''s all the rage right now, so I had to queue," she exined.


    "I got all the trending drinks, plus pastries. Please, help yourselves while we talk," she added with a friendly tone.


    I gave her an appreciative nod. She dabbed the sweat off her brow, then winked at me behind the trays.


    Elitara''s team, mostly younger professionals, warmed up instantly. Once the coffee and sweets were on the table, the energy in the room shifted.


    "This ce is impossible to get into. It''s too popr," one of themmented between sips.


    "See, this is why it''s easier dealing with people our age-no generational gaps, no stiff nonsense," another chimed in.


    "Mrs. Carson really did her homework. I haven''t seen some of these pastries in- store at all," a third one remarked.


    Just when I thought we were finally transitioning into the actual meeting, the door opened-and Vivian walked in, the queen of bad timing,


    She took one look at the table, then curled her lip and sneered, "Really? Is this a meeting or a brunch?"


    She scoffed, eyesnding on the pastries, and taunted, "Ada, this is what you''re serving our guests? Supermarket cake? You''re not even trying to hide the fact that you''re cheap,"


    I took a slow, deliberate sip of my coffee, savoring the moment before replying coolly, "Well, you''re wee to foot the bill for luxury desserts now."


    Vivian''s jaw twitched, but before she could snap back, Dorian cut in, his voice polite butced with disdain, ¡°You''re the assistant, right?


    "We''ve been here over an hour, and all you''ve done is tell us Mr. Carson''s too busy."


    "So what''s this sudden appearance supposed to be? A threat?" he questioned.


    stood, calmly brushing down his suit and buttoning his jacket.


    Around him, the rest of his team put down their coffee and followed his lead.


    He dered, "If this is how Carson Group handles its partnerships, we''ll take our business elsewhere.


    "Ada,


    ????


    you i for the refreshments-just so no one uses you of misusingpany funds."


    29%


    +15


    I barely had time to respond before the door opened again, and Jude stepped in, trying to mask his awkwardness with a forced smile. "Carson Group can handle a few pastries. No need for your charity, Mr. Huxley."


    Clearly, he hadn''t known Dorian was Elitara''s lead either.


    He nced at me, tone sharp, and demanded, "What''s going on? You left a client waiting?"


    Vivian jumped in before I could speak and lied, "It''s Ada. I already told the design team, but she insisted on sending someone out to stand in line for coffee. That''s what dyed everything."


    "She did the same thing with Mr. Merrittst time. I think she''s doing it on purpose," she added, continuing her act.


    Her performance was as subtle as a brick through ss. Even the Elitara girls rolled their eyes.


    We''d all been in this game long enough to recognize a petty little power grab when we saw one.


    But Jude? Judepped it up like gospel.


    "Ada, if you''re here to negotiate, then negotiate. Don''t turn it into a spectacle. If Elitara walks out because of this, will you cover the loss?" he scolded.


    I stared at him, half in disbelief, half in fury. If this was who he''d been from the start, I wouldn''t have wasted a second chasing after him.


    "Jude-are you actually this dense?" I eximed, my anger rising.


    "If I''d known Dorian wasing, I would''ve met him at the damn elevator. You think I wanted him waiting around?" I questioned, my voice heated.


    I met his eyes, the anger simmering just beneath the surface, and used, ¡°Unless..... someone wanted to keep him from seeing me. Maybe because that someone doesn''t want a divorce and couldn''t stand the thought of me talking to another man?"


    I knew exactly which nerve to strike.


    Back in college, I barely even acknowledged Dorian, and Jude would sulk for


    days.


    He might not love me anymore, but the thought of Mrs. Carson smiling at another man still clearly got under his skin.


    And just like that-he snapped.


    "Ada, get out. You''re off this project. Leave. Now," he roared.


    Behind him, Vivian smirked like she''d just scored the winning point. I rolled my eyes so hard it almost gave me a headache.


    I was about to say something-maybe demand my cut for the project''s early work- when Dorian''s voice rang out, calm but firm, "If Mrs. Carson isn''t involved in the design phase, Elitara Group will be/pulling out."


    He turned to Jude with a pleasant smile that didn''t quite reach his eyes and asked, "You didn''t seriously think I came here to work with you, did you?"


    17:02 Thu, 8 May

 Chapter 41

    Dorian didn''t bother softening the edge in his voice. Jude stared at him for a long beat, then suddenly broke into a smile


    He said sarcastically, "So that''s what this is-Mr. Huxley''s taken a liking to Mrs. Carson''s design skills. Impable taste."


    He turned to me, the smile still in ce, and remarked, "In that case, Ada, I hope you''ll give it your best. Let''s work well together."


    29%


    +15


    He let the next part hang in the air just long enough to make its weight felt, hinting, "If there''s anything, let''s keep it in thepany. Easier to deal with that way, don''t you think?"


    I acted like I hadn''t caught the subtext, even if it was impossible to miss.


    1, unfazed, offered a nod and stated, "Mr. Carson makes a good point. Let''s get back to work, shall we? No use wasting more time."


    "Especially," I added with a pointed nce in Vivian''s direction, "since someone''s little mistake has already kept Elitara Group waiting far too long.¡±


    Vivian tugged on Jude''s sleeve and leaned in, whining, "Mr. Carson, I thought I was supposed to be involved in this project?"


    Of course, she wanted in.


    Never mind themission-just having Elitara Group''s name on her r¨¦sum¨¦ would be worth its weight in gold.


    But I had no intention of letting that happen.


    "I''m sorry, but we don''t need senior assistants on this one. The secretarial team can sit this out," I said firmly, then added, "Besides, you''re still not full-time yet, are you?"


    Vivian was still an intern, and no matter how eager she was, she didn''t have the standing to get near a project like this.


    She shot me a furious re. "This was my project to begin with-I was the point of contact. Mr. Merritt said-"


    "Cassian?" Dorian cut in smoothly, interrupting her, "Unfortunately, Mr. Merritt''s under internal investigation. He won''t be overseeing this project


    anymore."


    Dorian finally looked up, his tone mild but calcted, and probed, "These kinds of financial cases tend to drag a lot of people in. You and Mr. Merritt close, Miss Miller?"


    Vivian shook her head as soon as the words hit the air.


    She turned to Jude in panic, crying out, ¡°Jude.....¡±


    But Dorian was already settling back into his chair, motioning for the others to prepare. "Mr. Carson, we''re about to start.


    "Are you nning to have your assistant sit in, or is this your way of pushing someone onto my team?"


    The meeting room shifted. His staff had already begun setting upptops, prepping notes.


    Jude''s jaw tightened as he swallowed whatever protest he was about to make. He forced a smile and announced, ¡°Carry on without me. I''ve got other things to handle."


    Then, with a pointed look in my direction, he added, ¡°Mrs. Carson, I''ll expect you in my office once the meeting wraps."


    I offered a polite nod and took my seat, unbothered.


    I knew exactly what he was trying to do-he didn''t want me having lunch with Dorian.


    And the more he tried to control things, the less inclined I was to listen.


    17:02 Thu, 8 MayGO.


    With all the distractions out of the room, the meeting finally hit its stride.


    ÁÖ»á 29%•þ


    +15)


    It had been years since I''d seen Dorian work like this, and his design instincts had


    sharpened in ways I hadn''t expected. His suggestions were not only insightful- they were genuinely helpful.


    "You''re sure you''re not designing anymore?" I asked, still slightly breathless from our exchange, sounding incredulous.


    He shook his head, ncing toward his team, and exined, "Thepany needs me elsewhere. I''ll have to settle for throwing ideas your way."


    Before I could respond, his assistant piped up proudly, boasting, "Mr. Huxley is the


    future of Elitara Group. He barely has time to sleep, let alone design."


    I stared at her, wide-eyed. Dorian cleared his throat and looked away.


    "Well," he said, changing the subject with a grin, "since we''ve had such a productive session, how about lunch on me?"


    The room erupted.


    "You''re the best, boss! I vote steak buffet!" one of them shouted.


    "Seconded! The seafood is good-let''s make him pay for real!" another eximed.


    "Unanimous decision! I''m booking now!" a third one dered.


    Dorian''s assistant turned her hopeful gaze toward me and pleaded, "Mrs. Carson, you''lle too, won''t you?"


    Others chimed in, nodding, echoing her enthusiasm.


    "You and your assistant should join-it''ll be fun with everyone," one suggested.


    Exactly, Mr. Huxley''s loaded. Two more won''t hurt," another added.


    Even Ellen gave me a hopeful look. In the end, I caved.


    Everyone scattered toward the buffet at the restaurant while Dorian and I stayed behind.


    "I feel bad," I admitted quietly, sounding guilty. "It isn''t exactly cheap,"


    He waved it off with a half-smile and reassured, "Please. They''d have gone even harder on me if you hadn''te."


    I nced at him, curious, and asked, ¡°You seem close with your team. That girl earlier said you''re the heir?"


    I looked at him curiously.


    Truthfully, I didn''t know much about Dorian''s background. All I''d ever picked up were the vaguements people made.


    He gave me a look, one that carried far more weight than the simple smile that followed.


    He revealed, "Why else would Elitara Group insist on working with Carson Group?


    It''s certainly not because Jude''s irreceable."


    The confidence in his eyes hadn''t changed since college.


    I remembered him saying once that I''d see his worth one day that he was better


    for me than Jude.


    He wasn''t wrong. I see it now. But it was toote for us.


    Before I could say anything else, a swarm of reporters came storming in, cameras already rolling.


    Dorian immediately shifted, cing himself between me and the chaos.


    17:02 Thu, 8 May G


    "Mrs. Carson! Dining out with a pretty boy-is the rumor true? You and Mr. Carson both ying the field?" one reporter barked.


    "Tell us-are you funding your lover, or is this true love?" another shouted.


    "Ada, didn''t you run off with some rich heir back in the day? Then came crawling back to Jude-so who''s the new target?" a third one jeered.


    The room was buzzing with whispers and halfughed questions, but one female reporter''s voice cut clean through the noise.


    She wasn''t just guessing-she knew things. She was the only one calling me by


    name.


    I turned to face her.


    3,29%2


    She hesitated, caught off guard, then raised her voice even more, using, "Ada,


    word is you''re only staying married for the money. You''ve been cheating for months-how dare you ask for anything else?"


    AD

 Chapter 42

    29%


    "So this mysterious other man you''re referring to would that be my legal husband?¡± I asked, standing up and fixing the reporter with a level gaze.


    I''d seen her before-on Vivian''s social media.


    A screenshot had made the rounds in our gossip group. It was her and this same woman, clinking sses at some upscale restaurant.


    I nced down at her press badge and questioned, "Bethany, is it? You''re Vivian''s best friend, the same Vivian who''s been sleeping with my husband?"


    The entire restaurant turned their heads toward her.


    Her face flushed scarlet, but she didn''t back down. Chin lifted, she snapped defensively, "So what if I am? That doesn''t change the fact that I''m a serious journalist."


    Now that the cameras were pointed at her, she took a moment to smooth down her hair and square her shoulders, then dered, "It''s because I''m


    Vivian''s friend that I know the truth.


    "Ada here wed her way into Jude''s life, manipted him into marriage even though he never loved her.


    "And now that he wants a divorce, she''s clinging to him for money. The public deserves to know what kind of woman she really is.


    "How can a home-wrecker, someone who gets involved in other people''s rtionships, have the nerve to show up in public so brazenly?"


    ¡°Right.¡± Iughed, no longer bothering to hide my disdain. "So I forced him to marry me?


    "Maybe do your homework beforeing in here with your amateur dramatics. He was the one chasing me."


    "And the divorce? That was my idea. If you''re so sure about his feelings, why don''t you go tell him to finally sign the damn papers?" I retorted, turning away, done wasting my time.


    Security was already weaving through the crowd, steering the reporters out.


    Dorian''s team had started to return from the buffet, drawn by themotion. Ellen looked about ready to explode and shouted, "Are you serious? It''s a team dinner! Why aren''t your cameras pointed at the rest of us?"


    Dorian''s team quickly rallied around.


    "We''re here for work. We finally get one decent meal, and you vultures show up?" one of them eximed.


    "Calling him a boy toy? That''s our CEO, you idiots. Get your eyes checked!" another chimed in.


    "Oh, so we''re praising mistresses now? What, are you all trying to be one?" a third one sneered.


    The Elitara Group team didn''t hold back, and within minutes, the so called press had packed up and slunk off.


    I offered the others an apologetic smile.


    We exchanged a few amused nces and then theughter started


    Dinner turned out to be surprisingly fun. Butter that night, the mood soured again.


    Sure, the reporters might''ve figured out the real story, but no one was interested in printing the truth.


    That''s not what the inte wanted. The inte wanted scandal.


    So once again, Jude and I were trending


    17:02 Thu, 8 May GO


    [Carson couple rumored to divorce; Journalists are scolded for interviewing; Mrs.


    Carson walks away with Carson Group shares.]


    The headlines got wilder by the hour.


    I even found a few fanfics.


    ÁÖ»á 29%Ó‡


    Some of them were creatively urate. One writer came close to the actual story-if you ignored the part where I sobbed into a male model''s chest like some jilted heiress.


    In reality, I was the one hugging a heating pad and nning my next round of chemo.


    The next morning, Jude called.


    Of course he did. I knew the Carsons wouldn''t let this blow over.


    Sure enough, Ewan had seen the news. And he was furious. He summoned us both back to the family estate, immediately.


    "I''ll pick you up." Jude sighed, sounding exhausted-probably had a sleepless night dealing with PR damage control.


    I noticed several trending tags had already vanished. Clearly, the family''s PR team had started cleaning up the mess.


    This time, I didn''t argue. If we showed up separately, Ewan might just keel over from the stress.


    Ewan swung it at him twice before anyone could stop him.


    Jude took it without a word.


    Bodhi and Juno''s families were there, too, watching in silence like spectators at a circus.


    Have you two lost your minds?" Ewan bellowed, his voice booming through the room, "Do you have any idea what those articles are saying? Look at the stock! It''s tanking!"


    Even though Jude ran a branch of the business, the scandal affected the entire Carson Group. Of course, Ewan was furious.


    Then Mireille stepped in, all elegant concern and thinly veiled judgment, andmented, "Ada, really... out at dinner with another man? You should''ve


    been more discreet."


    gave her a polite nod and replied, "You''re right, Mireille. Seven people at dinner is the perfect setup for an affair."


    Only a handful had known Dorian and I were dining together. And since Vivian''s bestie just happened to be there, too, it wasn''t hard to guess who leaked


    1. st.


    Ewan red at Jude before turning to me and inquired, "That kid-he''s from Elitara Group, right?"


    "Yes. Dorian Huxley. He and Jude graduated from the same college," I informed him.


    Jude let out a humorless snort and muttered, "Don''t remind me."


    That earned him another smack from Ewan''s cane.


    "If he''s a friend and your business partner, then make that clear publicly. No more ambiguity," Ewan ordered.


    Ewan''s brow furrowed, and he mused, "Huxley, huh. Must''ve taken his mother''s name. So it was him..."


    I was about to press for more when Jude shot me a warning look


    Ewan noticed it too and promptly gave hit another whack.


    "What''s that look for? You think I can''t see what''s going on?" Ewan scolded.


    17:02 Thu, 8 May G.


    ÁÖÑ© 29%•þ


    "Here''s what''s going to happen," he said, his voice leaving no room for argument.


    "You''re both staying here until thepany anniversary g."


    "No objections. That''s final," he dered firmly.


    16

 Chapter 43

    When Ewan spoke, no one dared to go against him.


    I tried opening my mouth a few times, but every time, that cold,manding stare of his made me shut right up.


    In the end, Jude and I were directly sent back to our room.


    Actually, Jude and I always had a room at the Carson estate, though we''d barely stayed in it.


    And Jude always brought some women home instead. So I never likeding back.


    Seeing the room still decorated in my style, I felt a lump in my throat. ''So this is what people mean when they say everything''s changed, even if the things stay the same.


    was so happy when we got married. And now? That same joy just makes the pain worse!''


    When I first came here, I really thought the Carson family had epted me as one of their own. Turned out reality had just pped me right in the face.


    I took a shower and went straight to bed. A message popped up from the nurse, reminding me I had chemo tomorrow.


    Thinking about the side effectsst time, I texted Casey and asked her to pick me up tomorrow.


    Casey: [Ada, you guys went back to Carson estate? Is it because of the rumors online?]


    Casey: [Don''t worry, I''ll be there first thing tomorrow. I won''t let them bully you!]


    I couldn''t help butugh at the sticker she sent along with that.


    And at the same time, my chest felt warm. Ever since I came back to the country, she''d been the one looking out for me.


    Jude walked out of the bathroom, freshly showered, then coughed loudly. "Who''re you texting that''s got you smiling like that?"


    I rolled over and turned my back to him.


    Everything here was perfect. The only downside to this room? Just one bed.


    Jude looked annoyed. He jabbed at my shoulder. "Why''d you cut your hair? It doesn''t look good."


    "None of your damn business. Not like I cut it for you." I flicked my shoulder to shake him off and scooted further to the edge.


    Jude just sat there behind me like he was trying to burn a hole in my back with his eyes.


    "Tch-are you gonna sleep or not? I''m turning off the lights." I started reaching for the remote when he suddenly grabbed my wrist,


    Jude eased up a bit, like he was scared of hurting me, but he didn''t let go.


    Jude said, "Ada, stop with the drama. If you behave, you''ll always be Mrs. Carson,"


    I froze, staring at him, totally confused.


    Jude looked off to the side, let go of my hand, and muttered, "You''re Mrs. Carson. No one can take that from you.


    "I''ll buy you all the clothes you want. Jewelry/bags they''re all yours."


    Jude actually blushed while saying that, like the words were hard to get out.


    He really did seem like the Jude I used to know-but only kind of


    28%


    +15


    Back then, Jude would never say something like "stop the drama." He''d just tell me not to get mad, that it was all his fault.


    Jude would say getting angry would make me age faster. That he didn''t care if I got old, he just didn''t want me feeling like I wasn''t beautiful.


    I took a deep breath, pushed all those sweet memories down, and forced myself to stay calm.


    "Jude," I asked, "do you remember where the jewelry Vivian took came from?"


    Jude looked confused. I knew it. He had no idea.


    I kept going. "That ne she wore? You gave it to me the day we got our marriage certificate. You said the sky was super blue that day-just like that sapphire.


    "Those two rings in her hand? One was a wedding anniversary gift from you, and the other was the matching couple ring I bought the week after we got married.


    "And those earrings? You had them custom made for my first birthday after I came back to the country."


    Jude opened his mouth, eyes full of guilt. Eventually, he mumbled, "I''m sorry."


    I waved him off. "It''s fine, really. You don''t remember, and I don''t care anymore. Isn''t that kind of perfect?"


    Jude tooked freaked out, shaking his head over and over. I didn''t want to keep talking. I turned my back on him again.


    Jude must''ve been really shaken, because I heard him sniffle.


    But what was there to cry about? I was the one who should''ve been crying. I just didn''t have the tears left for him anymore.


    About ten minutes passed. Just as I was about to reach for the remote again, Jude grabbed my hand.


    Jude said, "If you don''t like them anymore, I''ll buy you new ones. Just don''t-"


    "Jude, why don''t you get it yet?" I turned to face him, looking straight into his eyes with zero emotion.


    I continued, "You don''t remember what they meant, and I don''t want jewelry that someone else has touched. That makes it worthless.


    "If you really feel bad, just convert the value and wire it to my ount." With that, I snatched the remote, turned off the lights, then added, "Make sure to write that it''s a voluntary gift. Don''te backter saying it was all your money."


    I could hear his breathing grow heavier, but I didn''t care. I needed sleep for tomorrow''s chemo.


    Unfortunately, the moment Judey down beside me, I couldn''t sleep anymore. His breathing slowly evened out right behind me, and just like that, was wide awake.


    Pain started creeping up in my chest, and I wasn''t sure if it was from the surgery or just heartache.


    I slipped out of bed quietly. When I opened my bag, frealized I hadn''t brought any painkillers with me.


    If I went out, Jude would definitely wake up. Worse, he might call the maid, and then the whole house would know.


    Clutching my chest tightly, I sat on the sofa nearby. I was so thin now that I could curl up and just barely fit.


    Then I spent the whole night curled up there, toughing out the pain until I finally drifted off in a foggy daze.

 Chapter 44

    The next morning, I woke up still curled up in the chair, a thin nket draped over


    me.


    Jude was sitting quietly on the bed, watching me. "You''re up?"


    I shifted a little, my whole body aching.


    ''Figures, I thought. ''No matter how expensive, a single-seater sofa just isn''t made for sleeping.


    I tilted my head side to side, feeling the crick in my neck like it might turn into a


    full-on spasm.


    Jude reached his hand out, probably to help, but I pushed him away without hesitation.


    Annoyed, Jude snapped, "Ada, what the hell are you doing? You''d rather sleep on


    a damn sofa than share a bed with your husband?"


    The word "divorce" nearly slipped out of my mouth, but I held it back.


    Now that the Carson Group were under fire, throwing that word out would just be too cruel.


    If we were gonna split, it''d have to be quiet.


    And honestly, knowing Jude, if I mentioned divorce now, he''d lose it. Better to let him do that in private.


    I nced out the window and spotted Casey''s car pulling up. A secondter, my phone rang.


    *Ada, I''m here. You up yet?" Casey said.


    it was just past seven. Casey must''ve left home at five or six.


    Guilt crept in. I replied, "Give me ten minutes. I''ll shower ande down."


    "What are you up to?" Jude stood in the bathroom doorway, trying to follow me in, but I shoved him right back out.


    "Going out with Casey. She''s got a checkup, I''m tagging along. Chill," I replied.


    Then i shut the door and locked it. Thest thing I needed was him barging in again.


    Jude mmed a palm against the door out of frustration, but didn''t force it.


    I showered quickly, got dressed, and slipped out of the room.


    Juno nced from me to the car outside and asked, "Ada, heading to work this early? Not waiting for Jude?"


    "Sorry, I''m just going with a friend to the hospital." I changed my shoes and rushed out.


    I could feel Jude watching me from the second-floor window, but I didn''t look back.


    Casey yawned as I got in. "What the hell? You stayed the night again? They didn''t give you crap, did they? Mr. Carson didn''t just blindly take his grandson''s side?"


    I shook my head. Didn''t feel like exining


    I thought, ''We''re going to divorce anyway-might as well consider this my way of


    paying back the Carson family for everything over the years.


    Casey didn''t press further, though her driving was faster than usual. I could tell something was up.


    "You okay, Casey? You seem kinda rushed today," I asked.


    28%


    415


    17:02


    Thu, 8 May


    Casey shook her head and hung up an iing call.


    "If something''s up at work, go handle it. Don''t let me hold you back," I said, trying not to sound too insistent.


    I''d caught the caller ID-"Manager." Yeah, Casey definitely had something going


    on.


    After dropping me at the hospital and making sure I had everything I needed, Casey finally admitted, "There''s a bidding event today."


    "Go ahead. I''ll text you when I''m done with chemo," I said.


    I knew how hard Casey had worked to earn her spot, so I pushed her to leave.


    If I hadn''t texted her out of the blue yesterday, Casey probably would''ve been at the event already.


    Casey double-checked with me a few more times, but I kept insisting I was fine. Only then did she finally go.


    Without her around, the pain from the chemo hit harder.


    Seeing the patients beside me, who were as thin and pitiful as I was, made my heart ache even more.


    Perhaps watching life slip away was just this feeling.


    After the chemo, everyone else had someone waiting for them. But I was alone.


    The young nurse looked at me with sympathy and told me to rest a little longer.


    But being alone in that ce made me feel worse. So I pushed myself through the difort and made my way to the elevator.


    in reality, I hated hospitals. There were too many bad memories in hospital.


    But I couldn''t stay away from them either. My whole life felt like it was stuck in a loop I couldn''t break out of.


    By the time I reached the first floor, my steps picked up. I just wanted to get out of there.


    fast. My body suddenly gave out, and I stumbled forward. I grabbed onto a hand that reached out to steady me.


    t lost my bnce." I finally stood straight-and looked up into Dorian''s face. eckup? You don''t look great." Dorian scanned me up and down and reached for my medical file.


    into my bag quickly and replied, "No big deal. Just low blood sugar."


    Maybe because I looked so pale, Dorian actually bought it. He helped me over to a bench and went to grab me a Coke.


    sipped it slowly, trying to fight back the nausea that always came after treatment.


    Dorian looked like he still wanted to ask something, so I quickly changed the subject. "What about you? What brings you here, Dorian?"


    "Friend''s sick. I came to visit. You?" Dorian said.


    28%


    +15)


    Dorian was clearly still worried. I tucked a few strands of hair behind my ear and forced a smile. "Same old. I''ve been fainting a lottely. Figured I should get checked. They said it''s just low blood sugar.",


    Suddenly, my hand brushed against something that made me freeze. it was hair.


    I stared at the strands I''d just lost. It hit me like a punch to the gut. ''Second chemo session, and it''s already starting?


    Dorian was saying something, but I couldn''t hear it anymore. "Ada? What''s wrong?" he asked.


    17:02 Thu, 8 May


    0


    I clenched my fists and shook my head. "Nothing. I was just thinking maybe I should carry some candy around."


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    416


    Dorian stood and helped me up again, taking the Coke from my hands. "You didn''t


    eat beforeing, did you? Let''s grab something. I''ll buy you candy


    too."


    His smile was warm, gentle. Somehow, I nodded without even thinking about it.


    As we passed a trash bin, I quickly tossed the strands of hair inside. ''Yeah,'' I thought. ''It''s probably time to buy a wig!


    !


    AD

 Chapter 45

    hapter 45


    Dorian took me to a quiet vegan restaurant, and I stared at him, a little surprised. "Why here?"


    "You don''t look like you''ve got much of an appetite," Dorian said as he pulled out


    a chair for me and poured a cup of coffee. "Figured something light might go down easier."


    After a sip, the warmth of the coffee did make me feel a little better, but my stomach still wasn''t up for much.


    I ended up just ordering a bowl of oatmeal, eating it slowly, one bite at a time.


    Dorian didn''t seem in any rush. He just sat there with a smile, watching me eat like I was the most fascinating thing in the world.


    Suddenly, Dorian grabbed a napkin and reached out to wipe my mouth. I flinched instinctively, and he immediately pulled his hand back.


    "You got it all over your mouth," Dorian said with a softugh. "Looks like you were hungrier than you thought."


    I took the napkin from him, feeling embarrassed. Just then, a chill crept down my spine.


    "Well, well, Ada." came Vivian''s nauseatingly familiar voice, full of fake sweetness. "So this is why you didn''t show up at work today? Out on a little date with your college crush?"


    Hearing this, I rolled my eyes. Across from me, Dorian chuckled out loud.


    Vivian clearly wasn''t happy with my reaction. She made a show of wrapping her arm around Jude and walked right over to our table.


    "Oatmeal, really?" Vivian said, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "Not feeling well? But hey, with Mr. Huxley here, we don''t need to worry about you, do


    we?


    Vivian continued, "Still, you''re technically a married woman. Going out like this? Pretty scandalous if you ask me."


    Jude didn''t say a word. He just stood there, staring at me while Vivian ran her mouth.


    I wiped


    usly. "Right. And yet here you two are, arm in arm, having lunch in broad daylight. big deal?"


    shameless Vivian could be.


    ve back then, maybe things with Jude wouldn''t have turned out the way they did.


    ude finally spoke when I pped back at his precious little sweetheart.


    Jude said impatiently, "Ada, watch your mouth. You''re here on a date with Dorian, and you''ve got the nerve to call us names?"


    Meeting his angry re, Iughed. "What else should I call you? Adulterers?


    "Sorry, I majored in design-my vocabry is a little limited. Hope you can forgive that, Mr. Carson."


    I grabbed my bag and looked at Dorian. "You dong eating? Let''s get outta here.¡± Dorian stood up right away, but Vivian just had to block our path again.


    Vivian spoke up. "Ada, you just had a scandal blow up online. People were talking all kinds of crap about you. Shouldn''t you keep a low profile?


    "You''re still married to Jude, and now you''re out here flirting with someone else? What, you think you''re that irresistible? You think


    I pointed a finger at her, about to shut her up, when I suddenly felt something warm running down my nose.


    8 May


    5


    I thought, ''Nosebleed. Of course. It always happened the day of my chemo sessions.''


    I hurried to grab a tissue and held it to my nose, but the bleeding just wouldn''t stop.


    Dorian pushed past Vivian without a word and grabbed my arm. "Come on. Let''s get you to the restroom. Don''t worry, it''s okay."


    I nced down and saw a huge red stain blooming across my chest. Instantly, I felt irritated.


    This shirt was brand new-a gift from Casey-and it hadn''t been cheap. If the blood didn''te out, that was money down the drain.


    I was still thinking about how to get the stain out when, of all people, Jude stepped in front of me.


    "What''s going on with you?" Jude demanded. "Why are you always getting nosebleeds?"


    Jude looked like he wanted toe closer, maybe check on me or something, but Dorian stepped between us.


    Dorian said, "Mr. Carson, since you''re out with your girlfriend, maybe don''t worry about your wife. It''s pointless."


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    415


    Soon, Dorian didn''t give him a chance to respond. He just pulled me straight toward the restroom. And Jude stayed where he was, held back by Vivian.


    "Don''t stress about it, Jude," Vivian said, her voice fake sweet. "Ada is probably just upset because I hit a nerve."


    Vivian added, "I used to get nosebleeds all the time when I was little. It''s nothing."


    Hope you go back to getting nosebleeds all the time then,'' I thought bitterly.


    It took a while, but the bleeding finally stopped. By then, the whole room was spinning.


    Instinctively, I touched the top of my head-and instantly snapped back to reality at the feel of hair falling out.


    I opened my palm slowly and looked at the strands. My eyes stung.


    I''d always been so vain. The thought of going bald-even if it was just patchy at first-was something I couldn''t really ept.


    It wasn''ting out in clumps yet, but still, way more than normal.


    Luckily, Dorian hadn''t noticed. He handed me a bottle of water. "Low blood sugar and a nosebleed? What did the doctor say?"


    I quickly tossed the hair on the floor, whispering a silent apology to the cleaningdy, and took the bottle, forcing down a small sip.


    "It''s just heat and low blood sugar," I said. "I''ll be fine after a bit of rest."


    "You sure about that?" Dorian looked skeptical.


    Yeah, I knew it sounded like total BS. But I still nodded with conviction.


    "Wouldn''t you be burning up if your husband had an affair?" I said, half joking. "I''m good."


    Dorian actually nodded, like he believed it.


    "Dorian, I wanna be alone for a while. You don''t have to walk me out," I said,


    starting to feel a little overwhelmed. I stepped out of the restroom on my


    own.


    As I walked past Vivian and Jude, I didn''t:


    n''t spare them a nce. I just headed straight out the door and grabbed a cab


    back to Casey''s ce.

 Chapter 46

    Since I''d already taken the day off, I figured I might as well go back to my room and sleep.


    The second round of chemo was even worse than the first. I couldn''t tell if it was killing the cancer cells or trying to kill me.


    The side effects hit hard. I dry-heaved for a while and had another nosebleed.


    After about an hour of struggling, my body finally started to adjust.


    After taking a quick shower, I copsed on the bed. Without Jude around, the world suddenly felt a lot quieter. I drifted off in a daze.


    Unfortunately, Jude just had toe haunting again. He actually showed up at Casey''s ce.


    First it was nonstop ringing, then Jude started pounding on the door like a maniac. "Ada! Ada! I know you''re in there! Open up!" he shouted.


    Thankfully, it was still daytime. The neighbors hadn''t started yelling yet.


    I dragged myself to the door and opened it. "What do you


    want?"


    28%


    Maybe I looked too pale, because Jude just stood there with his mouth half open, totally speechless.


    Right as I was about to close the door, Jude shoved his hand between the frame. He said, "Ada, can we talk?"


    I almost mmed the door on his fingers, but in the end, I held back. When he tried to step inside, I blocked the entrance. "Whatever it is, say it here."


    Jude hesitated for a moment, then mumbled, "You''re sick, right? It wasn''t Casey who went for the checkup-it was you, wasn''t it?"


    Jude suddenly gets a little smarter,'' I thought, rolling my eyes. ''But clearly, he isn''t smart enough. Or maybe he just doesn''t care enough.


    ''If he''d gone to the hospital, pulled some strings, he would''ve known I wasn''t just there for a checkup.''


    ''But he didn''t. And now he''s here asking me instead. That says enough.''


    I also didn''t feel like exining. So I just replied, "Yeah. Low blood sugar. Too much internal heat."


    "I''ll take you to get checked again, okay? Our family hospital''s more reliable," Jude said, trying to sound sincere.


    That''s when it hit me-the Carson Group owned hospitals, of course.


    I shook my head. "Thank you, but it''s just low blood sugar. I''ll be fine in a couple


    days. As long as you and Vivian stay out of my sight."


    "If you don''t have anything to do, then just go ahead and leave."


    I grabbed the door, trying to shut it again. But Jude was way stronger than me, and he wouldn''t let go.


    I didn''t know what was wrong with Jude today-he was being especially stubborn.


    Jude leaned in, using his body to block the door. "Ada, don''t forget-Grandpa told us to move back to the old house.


    "Living with Casey isn''t exactly convenient. Come back with me."


    Jude cleared his throat awkwardly. I kept pushing against the door.


    But Jude wouldn''t budge, like he''d made up his mind not to leave until I agreed.


    In the end, I gave in. "Fine. Wait here. I''ll be out in a minute."


    +15


    17:02 Thu, 8 May


    Since I promised Ewan, I figured I should follow through.


    Thepany''s anniversary event wasing up anyway. After that, we could go


    our separate ways. No one would have anything to say.


    Besides, I didn''t want him to make a scene and drag Casey into it.


    We rode in silence. I kept my eyes closed the whole time, trying to rest, afraid I''d pass out again.


    Luckily, nothing happened on the way. When we got back to the old house, only Juno was around. The rest of the annoying bunch had already left.


    Seeing us walk in together finally brought a smile to Ewan''s face. He said, "That''s more like it. A couple should always stick together.


    "As long as you''re close, no gossip can touch you. Now go get ready for the anniversary party. Don''t embarrass the family."


    Juno kept smiling, throwing in a fewments of her own.


    I knew Juno wanted me to stay the Carson wife-a sick woman who couldn''t get pregnant.


    And if Jude disappeared one day, her side of the family could split the assets with nopetition.


    But Juno was going to be disappointed. Jude and I were divorcing soon.


    I said a few polite things and went straight to my room. This time I came prepared-with painkillers. Finally, I could get some real sleep.


    Too bad Vivian wasn''t in the mood to sleep. Or maybe she just wanted Jude to sleep with her.


    A little after eleven, Vivian called, sobbing into the phone. "Jude, I had a terrible


    nightmare... I''m really scared. Can youe be with me?


    "I think I twisted something. My foot won''t move. It really hurts..."


    I stayed lying on my side, never turning around.


    Jude got out of bed quietly, murmured a few words offort, then changed and left the house.


    Asb


    ers.


    downstairs to get some water.


    She opened her door and gave me a knowing smile. "Jude''s heading out thiste? Can''t it wait till morning?"


    We both knew what was going on. No point pretending.


    and poured me a ss of water. "Ada, men are just like that. Don''t take it too seriously. Feelingse second. You should know


    He even had an emerald jewelry set custom-made for you. And a tailored gown. That has to mean something."


    Juno leaned closer, whispering, "That emerald set cost a few millions. What could show more sincerity than that?"


    With that, Juno raised an eyebrow and smiled, then turned around and headed upstairs.


    I drank the water in one gulp, thinking, Juno is right. With my situation, wearing jewelry worth a few millions isn''t the worst way to go out.


    ''Jude and I don''t have love anymore. All that''s left is how much he''s willing to spend,''

 Chapter 47

    The days flew by, and before I knew it, thepany''s anniversary celebration had arrived.


    28%


    +15


    The Carson Group had pulled out all the stops for this event-clearly trying to squash the recent rumors. They''d even prepped a bunch of press releases, just waiting to flood the news with stories about how Jude and I were still the perfect, loving couple.


    But up until the big night, I never got the gown or emerald jewelry Jude promised. In the end, I had no choice but to go back to the house.


    Turned out, Jude hadn''t actually broken his word-at least now I didn''t have to wait around for him to send the dress and jewelry by courier.


    I picked out a short formal gown I never got the chance to wear the year we got engaged. As for the jewelry, I looked everything over, then chose to wear nothing.


    I nced down at the ne Jude had given me and let out a soft breath. ''This is enough.''


    When Jude came to pick me up from the house, he frowned the moment he saw me. "Why are you dressed like that?"


    Jude was wearing a brand-new suit, obviously meant to match the custom gown.


    Maybe Jude forgot to give it to me, or maybe he just didn''t care. Either way, I didn''t bother asking.


    "Come on, let''s not keep everyone waiting," I said, taking his arm. His expression eased up a bit after that.


    I dressed pretty formally tonight. That dress had cost a fortune back then-it was custom-designed overseas.


    originally nned to wear it at some fancy event with Jude after we got married.


    But after the wedding, it just sat in my closet, untouched. I never really got the chance to attend anything with him.


    When we showed up at the venue together, people started whispering immediately.


    Mostly because our outfits lookedpletely mismatched¨Chis was green, mine a deep maroon.


    But even with the mismatch, we were still the main couple tonight. Nobody dared say anything out loud.


    Jude slipped into the crowd right away. This was his world. He''d always been good at mingling and working the room.


    1, on the other hand, said I wasn''t feeling well and went to rest. No one questioned it. Looking pale and worn-out had its perks-I could finally breathe a


    little.


    Then Vivian showed up, and suddenly all the attention shifted. The whispers grew louder.


    Vivian was wearing a green dress. The same green as Jude''s suit. And the emerald jewelry.


    ''That''s when everything clicked. So that''s who the dress and jewelry were for,'' I thought.


    I nced in Jude''s direction and let out a quietugh. He was still deep in conversation with the CEO of Allsafe Group, not even looking this way.


    ''Wow. Really going all in, huh? Trying to make it official with his side chick? Doesn''t even care how this looks for thepany?'' I muttered.


    After a while, I lowered my eyes and stared at the wine ss in my hand, pretending I didn''t hear a thing.


    But Vivian walked up to me, forcing out a few coughs. "Ada, is that really what you decided to wear tonight? You''re Mrs. Carson, you know."


    Vivian was surrounded by her little crew, including Bethany. Right on cue, they jumped in with their usual fake concern.


    17:03


    8 Ma


    5


    28%


    +15


    "Mrs. Carson? That dress is, what, from a few years ago? So outdated."


    "Not even a decent piece of jewelry? That''s just sad. Vivian, that emerald set Mr. Carson gave you must''ve cost a fortune."


    "Of course it did. Vivian''s clearly the one Mr. Carson really loves. No wonder she gets all the good stuff. Unlike someone else, just clinging to the title."


    "Exactly. Look at her, it''s pathetic. That cheap ne probably isn''t even worth anything."


    Vivian''s friends were exactly like her-no sense of timing, no filter, just letting whatever nasty thing they thought fly out of their mouths.


    But before I could even say a word, Jude walked over. His face was cold as he looked at them. "Pretty sure none of you are officially invited by Carson Group. Who do you think you are, bullying my wife like this?"


    Jude sounded so righteous that even I was surprised, let alone everyone else.


    ''Most people here know he doesn''t love me. Who exactly is he putting on this act for?'' I thought bitterly.


    I turned to look at him, confused. Jude actually looked pissed at Vivian. That look in his eyes was... odd. But I didn''t really care enough to figure it out.


    Vivian''s eyes turned red as she looked at him. "Jude, they''re my friends."


    Jude frowned, clearly annoyed. Tonight was supposed to be his big moment to make things look good. Vivian was just too clueless.


    Still, Jude didn''t yell at her. Instead, he looked straight at thest girl who spoke. "That ne my wife''s wearing? I gave it to her back in college for her birthday.


    ¡°It means a lot to me. It''s worth more than any piece of jewelry you could ever buy."


    As soon as Jude said that, people around us started chuckling and whispering. Saying how we must really be in love if I was still wearing something from allthose years ago.


    Vivian bit her lip hard, her eyes filling with tears. ¡°Jude..."


    "Don''t you know how to behave in different situations, Ms. Miller?" Jude said coldly.


    Jude called Vivian that way in front of me for the first time, and for a moment, everyone was stunned.


    Especially the Carson Group''s employees who knew the inside story, almost all of them subconsciously looked at Vivian.


    Tears rolled down Vivian''s cheeks one by one, but her eyes were still stubborn. She really wasmitted to that stubborn and innocent persona.


    Vivian spoke through gritted teeth. "Jude, she doesn''t even love you. Can''t you see that? She''s only with you for your money. She''s never loved you.


    "She didn''t even wear her wedding ring to such an important event. Why are you still defending her?


    "She doesn''t want to be with you anymore. Wake up already!"


    AD

 Chapter 48

    Vivian was crying her heart out like I was the evil mistress ruining a love story.


    But Vivian seemed to forget-I wasn''t the one refusing to let go. Jude was the one who wouldn''t sign the divorce papers.


    Still, I didn''t say a word. With so many people watching, I wasn''t about to embarrass the Carsons in public.


    Jude''s eyes dropped to my hand, and I instinctively shifted it behind my back.


    Vivian really was thorough. If she hadn''t brought it up, I would''ve forgotten all about selling the ring.


    But thanks to her little reminder, everyone else noticed too.


    "Mrs. Carson really isn''t wearing a ring. Hasn''t she stopped wearing it for a while now?"


    "I had a meeting with her not long ago, and she wasn''t wearing it either. I thought maybe the diamond was just too big and heavy."


    "Didn''t I hear she''s been wanting a divorce for a long time? Maybe it''s true."


    "Come on, there''s no way Jude won''t divorce her. I bet it''s Ada who''s clinging on."


    Jude shot a death re at the crowd. And they all shut up immediately.


    Vivian was still crying, but Jude clearly had no patience left for her.


    Jude yanked my hand up. I could already tell he was about to start something, so


    I tried to pull away, but he held on tight.


    At least he had enough sense not to cause a scene. Jude just gave me a hard look, then pulled me into his arms.


    Jude exined, ¡°Everyone, the reason my wife isn''t wearing her wedding ring is because I''ve just had a new one custom-made for her.


    "The old one, well... it wasn''t exactly impressive. I made it myself back in college.


    "Tonight, I was nning to surprise her with the new one. Looks like the surprise got spoiled early."


    Then Jude smiled and pped his hands. Someone actually wheeled over a six- tier cake.


    I stared at him in disbelief. ''Who brings a cake to apany anniversary party?''


    And it had to be strawberry-my favorite back in the day. But after chemo, even the sight of whipped cream made me sick.


    Jude picked up a ring box sitting next to the cake and dropped to one knee.


    Him kneeling there made me want tough and cry at the same time. ''Is this a dress rehearsal for my funeral?'' I thought.


    Someone in the crowd shouted, "Mr. Carson, what are you doing?"


    Jude scrambled to his feet and gave an awkward smile. "Sorry, I... I got a little nervous."


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    15


    Everyone burst outughing. His face flushed as he knelt down again and slipped the ring onto my finger. It was a huge diamond-had to be at least ten


    carats.


    People pped like crazy. A few even started chanting for a kiss.


    Vivian ran off in tears, the sound of her heels clicking furiously across the floor.


    I quietly stepped back, sending a clear message-I wasn''t kissing him.


    May


    We were about to get divorced. Holding hands and hugging was already pushing


    it.


    Vivian left, and her little gang followed right after, lifting their skirts as they scurled away.


    Ithought, Vivian has no reason to cry. I take a look at the diamond ring, and the diamond itself is passable, but the craftsmanship is just so-so,


    ''It''s probably hastily made by someone on behalf of Jude. Even if it is worth a fortune, it may only be worth a few million at most.


    ''But that emerald set Vivian wears tonight? I got a good look. Juno said it was worth eight figures, and honestly, she was being modest.


    ''Emerald is incredibly rare now. And that set has amazing quality.


    ''Give it a few years, and it''ll be worth even more. Vivian really hits the jackpot.''


    Honestly, Jude had his fair share of women-including me-but none of us ever got treated the way Vivian did.


    Thinking about how I once had to worry about not affording treatment made me feel like life really wasn''t fair.


    Then Jude suddenlyced his fingers through mine, looking a little worked up.


    "We''ve known and loved each other for years," Jude said. "I believe we''ll keep being happy together."


    I looked down, muttering, ''Yeah, right. We have known each other for years-that part is true. Loved each other for years? If he says so.


    ''As for happiness? I''m never happy with him. Pretty sure he isn''t either.''


    Jude''s gaze drifted to the edge of the crowd. I followed it and spotted Dorian standing there.


    Dorian nodded at me, and I forced a tight smile back. I just couldn''t bring myself to actually smile.


    Back when we first started dating, I used to think this side of Jude was adorable. I chased after him, and he yed hard to get.


    Later I figured him out. Once he warmed up to you, Jude acted like a clingy puppy. If Dorian so much as got near me, Jude would start growling.


    though? Watching Jude act like this, all affectionate and territorial, just felt fake.


    ever loved me. But here he was, putting on a show. Honestly, it must be exhausting.


    nced at me, then looked back at Dorian. "When we got married, Dorian didn''t attend the wedding. I guess tonight kind of makes up for it."


    Dorian gave a polite nod, keeping a calm smile on his face.


    I could tell a lot of people had seen the online gossip, because the looks they gave me and Dorian were... curious.


    "So Mr. Huxley was Mr. Carson''s ssmate? No wonder he knows Mrs. Carson. That exins the dinner."


    "I heard Mr. Carson and Mrs. Carson have been together since college. No way Dorian didn''t know."


    "Well, he got to witness it in person tonight. Mr. Carson, count us in as witnesses too!"


    The crowd was all riled up, as if no one noticed that Jude and Vivian were actually wearing matching outfits.


    I pulled my hand away slowly and reached for the ring.


    Honestly, I couldn''t even tell if Jude had put thought into it or not. The ring was


    at least two sizes too big. I just had to straighten my fingers and it would


    fall right off.


    Thinking about Vivian''s slightly chubby fingers, I curled mine into a fist. I wasn''t about to lose this ring and have Jude make me pay for it.


    17:03 Thu, 8 May GG


    ''This isn''t really mine anyway. I''m just the stand-in wearing it for show,'' I thought.

 Chapter 49

    #15


    17:03 Thu, 8 May


    With that little scene behind us, the anniversary party went on as nned.


    I stayed in the corner the whole time, terrified the ring would fall off.


    Still, even tucked away like that, people kepting over to chat. As Jude''s wife, I had to keep smiling through it.


    28%


    Eventually, I got tired of making small talk with people I didn''t even know and snuck into the restroom. I didn''t expect to run right into a totally drunk


    Pe,


    Funny enough, Pe went to the same college as we did. But from the moment we started freshman year, she always had it out for me.


    It wasn''t untilter, when my roommate brought it up, that I found out she''d had a thing for Wade too. I just beat her to the punch.


    Back then, I was openly chasing after Wade-made quite the scene of it-and a lot of people were egging me on.


    Pe was too proud to keep going after him, so she started picking fights with me instead.


    I tried to act like I didn''t see her, but Pe grabbed my arm. "Running from me, Ada? Feeling guilty?"


    "You''re drunk, Pe," I tried pulling my arm back, but I was so weak now, I couldn''t even shake her off.


    Pe held on tight, eyes full of disdain. "Oh, give me a break. You broke up with him and ran off with some rich guy. Why''d youe back?


    "Gold digger. Clout-chaser, Maniptive witch. You already left-why''d youe back and marry him?


    "You don''t love him anymore. Go back to Kasend with your rich boy! Why cling to Jude?"


    Yeah, Pe was definitely wasted. No way she''d say all this if she were sober.


    Part of me even wanted to record it-maybe I could use it to squeeze some hush money out of her.


    While my mind wandered to nonsense, Dorian showed up and stepped in.


    "Ms. Sidel, you''ve had enough. Let me call someone to help you lie down." Dorian gently tugged her hand off mine.


    Pe stared at her own hand, confused, then leaned close to get a better look at him.


    After a moment, Pe finally seemed to recognize him and shoved him hard. "Dorian, you kidding me right now? She left with a rich guy and went to Kasend-you had to know that.


    "What is it with you guys and this fake little sweetheart? She''s a fraud!


    "Oh, right, you left for Kasend a year earlier. No wonder. Let me tell you¡ª"


    Dorian didn''t let her finish. He waved over a server and had them escort her to the lounge to sleep it off.


    I forced an awkward smile. "Sorry about that, Dorian. She''s just drunk."


    Dorian wiped his hands like he couldn''t be bothered, then asked casually, "I remember you went to Kasend with your mom, didn''t you?"


    My heart skipped a beat. I looked away. "I... I should head back."


    Before I could go, Dorian grabbed my wrist gently. Not hard, like he was afraid he''d hurt me.


    *I happened to be at the airport that day," Dorian said. "I saw you with an older woman. That was your mom, right?"


    +15


    17:03 Thu, 8 May


    Dorian looked right at me, and I swallowed hard, unsure what to say.


    Everyone thought I''d run off to live it up with some rich guy. Only a few close friends knew the truth-that trip nearly cost me my life.


    Just as I was freezing up, Vivian suddenly appeared, voice full of shock. "Ada, what''s going on here? You guys can''t-"


    Dorian instinctively let go, and I rubbed my wrist awkwardly.


    Vivian had changed into a simpler dress and was carrying tworge shopping bags.


    Vivian said, looking pissed, "If you''re not willing to divorce Jude, then you shouldn''t be messing around with another man.¡±


    "I thought you were gone. What are you even doing back here?" I turned and washed my hands, then flicked them dry.


    Vivian immediately took a step back. She took a deep breath, then looked pitifully at the bags in her hands.


    Vivian said, "Ada, since Jude isn''t going to divorce you and you two are acting so lovey-dovey in public, then I''m giving everything back.


    "The dress and jewelry he gave me are way too expensive-I can''t ept them."


    28%1


    Vivian stared at me with this fake innocent face, like she was all brave and innocent. But her hands didn''t move. She wasn''t actually trying to hand them


    to me.


    I didn''t reach out either. Vivian clearly didn''t mean to give them to me in the first ce.


    I said, "You give them to him yourself. He''s out there in the hall."


    With that, I turned to leave-and right then, Jude happened to walk over with a fewpany executives.


    Suddenly, Vivian rushed in front of me, turned her back to Jude, and shouted, "Ada, since you''re so bothered by me, then fine! Take it all!"


    Then Vivian threw out her arms and let go. The bags hit the ground with a thud.


    I swore I heard something break. Vivian looked at me with tears in her eyes, pretending to be all heartbroken.


    Jude roared, "Ada! That set is worth a few million! How could you just drop it like that?"


    Vivian looked absolutely smug, like she was loving every second of this.


    I started gagging and rushed into the restroom. When I came back out, Jude was frowning down at the jewelry box. Inside, the bracelet was shattered.


    Vivian was sobbing like her life depended on it. "I''m sorry. It''s all my fault. Ada only got upset and smashed the bracelet because of me.


    "Don''t be mad at her, Jude. me me-it''s my fault. Don''t let this ruin your big night."


    AD

 Chapter 50

    Vivian said all that, but her eyes were practically glowing with smugness-not a trace of sadness in sight.


    I honestly wanted to apud her. With acting skills like that, she could''ve been killing it in showbiz. But no, she had to waste it all being the third wheel.


    In just a few moments, a crowd had already gathered around us. Everyone was trading looks, clearly enjoying the drama.


    "Ms. Miller, you let go of the bags yourself. Ada never even touched them." Dorian stepped in front of me, shooting Vivian a sharp re.


    Vivian looked like she''d been waiting for him to say something.


    That smug little smile nearly broke through before Vivian quickly covered her mouth. "Of course you''d take Ada''s side. You''re... with her, aren''t you?"


    Vivian said it vaguely on purpose, and just like that, all the eyes around us turned suggestive.


    Even though the rumors between me and Dorian had already been cleared up, it seemed nobody here cared about the truth.


    Jude handed the jewelry box back to Vivian and scoffed. "Your testimony doesn''t count. Who knows if you two cooked this up together to frame her? You''re probably in on it!"


    I looked at Jude like he''d lost his mind. He clearly forgot everything Ewan said earlier today.


    If it weren''t for the Carson family, I wouldn''t even have shown up to this anniversary thing.


    Vivian stepped up and nced around with that pitiful look of hers. "There''s no way I''d break something this expensive on purpose. I can''t afford to pay


    for it.


    "Even if Jude gave it to me, I wasn''t going to keep it. It''s way too much."


    I nodded quietly. ''Yeah, you weren''t gonna keep it. You were gonna smash it and pin it on me.''


    "Jude, you seriously believe her over Ada?" Dorian''s voice suddenly got louder. "What the hell is wrong with you?"


    I tugged lightly at his sleeve. "Forget it. No matter what you say, he''s not gonna listen."


    There weren''t any cameras in that hallway. Vivian had blocked everyone''s view earlier too, so I knew no one could vouch for me.


    And the one person who could didn''t seem very credible right now.


    Still, Vivian wouldn''t let it go. "That bracelet''s worth a fortune. You think this can just be brushed off?"


    ''Of course, I realized, ''she''s trying to pin the me on me.''


    Then I gave her a smile. "Wasn''t that bracelet bought with shared marital funds? Why are you so worked up?"


    I actually wanted to suggest calling the cops, but I figured that''d just make things messier.


    Sure enough, the second I mentioned shared property, Vivian''s chest started heaving with rage.


    "What''s all this noise? Do you people not know what day it is?" Ewan walked up with his cane, then smacked it hard against Jude.


    It was clearly the first time Vivian had seen hiny. She swallowed her fear and rushed forward with a forced sweet smile, "Grandpa, I just="


    "Grandpa? Who are you calling grandpa? Who the hell are you calling him that?" Mireille''s sharp voice cut through the air, pushing Vivian back a step.


    Juno followed closely behind, smiling as she helped Ewan. "Miss, don''t call people that so casually. Our family doesn''t have a granddaughter like you.


    28%


    *15


    "The real daughter-inw is standing right there. And who exactly are you?"


    At that moment, Mireille and Juno werepletely on the same side.


    I thought, ''I don''t count-being sickly and probably infertile doesn''t pose any real threat.


    ''But a younger, healthier woman? That can mean a childpeting for the inheritance.''


    Ewan shot Jude a re. "Aren''t you supposed to be hosting?"


    As soon as Ewan spoke, the crowd dispersed and wandered back into the party hall.


    I kept doing my best impression of a perfect Carson wife.


    Luckily, the rest of the anniversary celebration passed without any more drama.


    But once we were back at the old house, Ewan lost it. "Jude,e here!" he barked.


    Jude did as he was told. And Ewan opened the jewelry box and scowled. "Didn''t you say this emerald was for Ada? Then why the hell was it on that woman''s wrist?


    "And that gown too? You think she''s worthy? Are you trying to humiliate me?


    "You went to the celebration with Ada, then gave the dress to that woman? What do you think the media will say tomorrow?"


    Jude stood there stiff as a board. He replied, "Grandpa, it was meant for Ada...¡±


    Jude nced at me, then added under his breath, "I''m sorry. I messed up."


    1 stared at him, suddenly realizing something was off. ''Vivian''s dress looks a bit too long on her and definitely doesn''t fit right.


    If it''s originally meant for me, that will actually make sense. So she''s just taken it?''


    I thought, ''Even if Jude''s a mess, there''s no way he''d risk thepany''s anniversary party like that.


    ''But if Vivian is bold enough to do it, it''s only because he let her.''


    I turned away from him and looked at Ewan. "Grandpa, this is something between


    me and Jude. Maybe let us handle it?"


    I had to speak up, otherwise Ewan might''ve pulled out the family''s disciplinary


    measures.


    I still remembered the first time Jude brought another woman home.


    I ran to Ewan in tears, and he beat Jude with a thick cane. Jude still had scars on his back.


    Ewan gave me a long, tired look, then waved us off.


    Neither of us said a word on the way back. When we got home, I didn''t even go inside-I stopped him at the door.


    "Jude, this is for you." I handed him the diamond ring I''d been clenching in my hand the whole way back.


    I added, "It''s not mine. I won''t take it. And I didn''t break that bracelet, so I''m not paying for it. That''s it."

 Chapter 51

    Chapter 51 Two Average Girls


    Chapter 51 Two Average Girls


    Jude gripped the diamond ring tightly, his eyes reddening. "What about the wedding ring? Why aren''t you wearing it? Ada, what the hell does that mean?"


    I shrugged and didn''t really know what to say. What was I supposed to tell him? That I was dying back then and couldn''t even afford to see a doctor?


    Jude would''ve softened if I said that-I knew he would. But I didn''t want his pity.


    We''d made it this far, barely hanging on as husband and wife. Now that I had money, I just wanted to keep a shred of dignity.


    "Ada, do you have any idea? I made that ring myself! I picked that diamond out of dozens, and I set it by hand! I wanted to propose once I had a job and some savings! Ada!" Jude shouted, his voice cracking at the end.


    I stared at him, frozen. There was a dull ache in my chest I couldn''t describe. His eyes were full of hurt-but like I hadn''t been?


    I''d wondered about that ring too. Why was it so in? Was it because I left? Because I didn''t even deserve a decent diamond ring anymore?


    But Jude never told me he made it with his own hands.


    I ran my thumb over my bare ring finger and slowly looked down.


    I thought, ''Maybe this is how we fell apart, one missed moment at a time, until nothing fit anymore.''


    I stayed quiet. Jude got even more upset. He grabbed my shoulders and held me tight, his eyes turning red.


    Jude continued, "Ada, do I mean nothing to you now? You won''t even wear the wedding ring.


    "All you care about is money now, is that it? What about love? Doesn''t that count for anything? You weren''t like this before- you weren''t!"


    I shut my eyes and muttered, ''So funny. Love? Is that what he called dragging other women into our home and humiliating me?


    ''If his love is so valuable, then is mine just cheap enough to be stomped on?''


    When I opened my eyes again, there was nothing left in them.


    I said coldly, ¡°Jude, we haven''t had feelings for a long time. What''s the point of dragging it out?


    "You were sincere back then, and so was I. But that''s gone now. Let''s just end it clean. I''ll send you the divorce papers. Read them over and let me know."


    ''The anniversary is over anyway. Quietly ending things is the best option, I thought.


    But Jude still wouldn''t let go. His eyes looked like he was ready to devour me.


    I shoved him away, hard, but Jude grabbed my left hand and shoved the ring onto my finger.


    Jude retorted, "You''re not getting divorced! We''ll start over, build things back from scratch!


    "You didn''t like that ring? Fine! This one''s huge, a rock the size of an egg. Is that enough for you?"


    I looked down at the diamond on my finger... and actuallyughed. "Jude, are you serious right now? That ring''s not even meant for me. Why force it on me?"


    Jude clenched my hand tighter so I couldn''t take the ring off. His eyes were just as stubborn as he was.


    Jude exined, "I told you, all that jewelry was meant for you. Vivian-just forget her. I''ll make it up to you.


    "I''ll buy you more. Everything was for you! You knew that! Why pretend like you didn''t?"


    I let him hold on to me, but I just stared back, cold and unmoved.


    I thought bitterly, ''All those things are ''for me,'' but he never tells me. Maybe he tells Vivian instead, which is how she got the chance.


    ''He doesn''t even ask why I never wear the custom jewelry. Just like he never notices I stop wearing the wedding ring.''


    "Let go of me." I pried his fingers off one by one, then held my hand up in front of him.


    I said coldly, "Jude, am I pretending not to know, or are you pretending to care? The ring''s not even my size. How do you have the nerve to say it''s for me?"


    I tilted my hand down. The ring dropped to the floor with a soft thud.


    Jude stared at me, wide-eyed, speechless. And really, what was left to say?


    I ignored him and headed straight for the closet to change out of that gown. Chapter 51 Two Average Girls


    By the time I came out, Jude was still standing there like a statue, hadn''t even moved to pick up the ring. And I didn''t care. I walked right past him and left.


    Back at Casey''s ce, I felt like I was ready to copse. Every bit of strength I had was drained out of me.


    But Casey looked worse than I did. She was slouched at her desk, hair a total mess, wearing pajamas with two buttons done wrong, and she smelled like she''d been drinking.


    Casey, what happened to you?" I asked.


    "Ada-Adal" Casey cried, spinning around and throwing her arms around me.


    In seconds, my shirt was soaked with tears and snot.


    "Who messed with you?" I patted her back gently. It took about ten minutes before she calmed down a little.


    "My bid project''s a disaster. There''s a meeting tomorrow. What am I supposed to do? All the design data is wrong!" Casey kept rambling while crying.


    And that''s when I finally nced at herputer screen.


    Casey was one of the best in her field. She''d been working for years and barely made mistakes.


    But after we went over the numbers a few times, yeah-there was definitely a major issue.


    "If this design doesn''t work out, I''m done for," Casey mumbled, slumping over her desk like the wind had been knocked out of her.


    I stared at the screen, then flicked her forehead hard. "What are you crying for? We just need to figure out what went wrong. We''re both brainy-this should be nothing."


    I didn''t wait to see her reaction. Grabbed a stack of documents and started going through them.


    Casey held her head and gave me a pitiful look. "Ada, you and I are not brainy. You forgot?"


    I waved her off. "Then we''re just two average girls with a bit of grit. It should be


    enough to figure it out. Now shut up and check those files!"


    ¿Ú


    Subscribed

 Chapter 52

    Chapter 52 Remember To Pay For It


    Neither of us got much sleep that night.


    Casey''s design really wasn''t bad-it was creative and eco-friendly too.


    We just couldn''t figure out which tiny step had gone wrong, but it ended up throwing off the whole design.


    I went through it from the top again and finally found what caused the issue.


    "Look here. You didn''t change this part, right? It''s off by an inch," I asked.


    Casey pushed up her sses, squinted at the screen, then smacked the desk. "No way! Someone messed up my design! No wonder all the data fell off!


    "Someone must''ve changed the file when I wasn''t paying attention. I couldn''t find the original file anywhere-I thought I''d identally deleted it myself!"


    I''d already suspected something like that, but didn''t say it out loud.


    There wasn''t time to figure out who was behind it. Casey jumped into fixing the data while I stayed close and helped however I could.


    After a few solid hours of work, we finally got all the documents sorted. Daylight was starting to creep in.


    Casey, her voice hoarse, threw her arms around me. "Ada, I would''ve been dead without you. You''re my lifesaver, my second mom!"


    "Lifesaver''s fine. Mom? Absolutely not. I''m not signing up for motherhood," I said, patting her head, which earned me a dramatic smack from her.


    Casey''s voice was nearly gone from the stress. And my head was pounding too after staying up all night, so I just called in sick.


    Lately, it seemed like Jude had been deliberately keeping work away from me. The design department had been weirdly quiet.


    Casey was worse off than me though. She was so out of it she could barely stand, but she couldn''t skip the bidding presentation.


    We talked it over and decided I''d go up there for her.


    "Come on, you''re already off work today, Casey said. "Help me out, will you? I''II support you from the sidelines. You''ve got the brains for it."


    Casey was the lead designer, and no one else knew the project as well as she did. She was worried someone else would mess it up.


    Besides, Casey''s raspy voice shed so hard with her bossdy image it was honestly painful to hear.


    After thinking it through, I figured I knew the project well enough to wing it.


    But I didn''t expect to run into Dorian and Jude at the event with their team.


    My head dropped almost automatically. Casey spotted them too and let out a deep sigh.


    If I went up there as the lead designer from the Carson Group, all hell would break loose.


    And I could feel a cold re on me. It must be Jude.


    Casey patted my shoulder and said in her god-awful voice, ¡°I''ll go.¡±


    I nodded and thought, ''She really doesn''t have a choice. If I go up, it''ll only stir the pot.''


    As soon as Casey started speaking on stage, the whole crowd reacted to her voice.


    Still, Casey powered through and finished exining the design n.


    The Carson Group''s design was done by Department Three. It was solid, but Casey''s version came in under budget and was just as refined.


    I could tell Dorian''s team was eager, but they clearlycked experience. Their pitch didn''t quite hit the mark.


    In the end, Casey nailed the bid with her professionalism and sharp eye.


    When she came off stage, Casey hugged me tightly. "Ada...."


    "If you talk to me in that zombie voice again, I''m gonna poison you." I shoved her


    off and stuffed a throat lozenge in her


    mouth.


    Casey giggled and clung to my arm, whining, "Ada, Ada, my dear Ada..."


    Chapter 52 Remember To Pay For It


    We were just about to leave,ughing and teasing, when Vivian showed up again, clearly unable to take a hint.


    "Ada, you work for the Carson Group! How could you help anotherpany? You''re the design director-are you trying to stab us in the back?" Vivian snapped,


    a few Design Department Three folks trailing behind her.


    They must''ve been salty about losing. One after another, they startedining too.


    "Seriously. Everyone knows you''re good at design. If you weren''t gonna help us, you could''ve at least stayed out of it." "You''re clearly trying to make us look bad. Bet you already saw her design n."


    "Exactly! Otherwise, there''s no way we''d have lost!"


    Jude had walked over by now too, and Vivian immediately started in with her pouty act.


    Vivian said, looking so wounded, "One day you''re all lovey-dovey with Jude, and the next you''re helping anotherpany.


    "That''s just cold. Do Jude and the Carson Group mean nothing to you?"


    Hearing that, Jude froze in his tracks and stared at me, like he was waiting for me to exin.


    Honestly, I was speechless. I didn''t even manage Design Department Three. And we didn''t work together at all. Jude set them up a few months ago to handle small projects separately.


    And the Carson Group clearly didn''t care about this project, which was why they gave it to a rookie team.


    Now they botched the bid and had the nerve to me me?


    But I wasn''t about to exin myself. I turned to Vivian instead. "Who''s Jude? Your Jude? Yeah, he doesn''t mean anything to


    1. me.


    "But that bracelet you broke? That sure means something. It is worth over ten million. Don''t forget to pay for it."


    Subscribed

 Chapter 53

    Chapter 53 She''ll Pay For It


    Vivian shouted, looking genuinely panicked, "Ada, you''re the one who broke that bracelet! And it was a gift for me!


    "Jude hasn''t said a word, so why are you making me pay for it? You haven''t earned a single cent for the Carson family!"


    I shrugged. "Then just wait for the Garson family to call the cops."


    Whether they called or not didn''t matter to me-but if the threat scared Vivian a bit, I was totally fine with that.


    The second Vivian heard I might call the cops, her face shifted through a whole series of expressions.


    The bracelet had been a gift for me, and Vivian had broken it. That pretty much counted as stealing from the family-and breaking it too? That charge wasn''t going to be light.


    Plus, people from the Carson family were there when it happened. There was no way Vivian could talk her way out of it.


    But as long as Jude didn''t press charges, Vivian figured she could keep pushing her luck.


    Vivian must''ve realized that too because her expression changed again.


    Then Vivian looked pitifully at Jude and said, ¡°Jude, I did it for thepany''s


    sake. Ada''s the design, director-how can she be helping outsiders?


    "And she''s got ess to all kinds of confidential files. What if she leaks something?"


    Vivian didn''t mention the bracelet at all. Smart move.


    "Ms. Miller, you really know how to twist things." Dorian walked over with his team.


    A few of the younger designers waved excitedly when they saw me.


    Dorian, however, wasn''t having it. He gave both Vivian and Jude a sharp look.


    Dorian continued, "They''re still married. That means half of Jude''s assets are legally hers. So why shouldn''t she ask forpensation?


    "Ada is still the president''s wife. The Carson Group is her family''s business. Why would she leak secrets from her ownpany?"


    Vivian''s coworkers looked at each other awkwardly.


    Sure, a design director from anotherpany might pose a risk-but the Carsons'' own bossdy? Ada really didn''t have a


    reason to.


    Even if Ada and Jude weren''t on good terms, no one just throws money away for fun.


    Seeing no one was siding with her, Vivian gave Jude another pitiful look. "Jude, look at them! They''re ganging up on me.


    "And you''re telling me there''s nothing going on between them? I don''t buy it."


    Vivian was clearly trying to stir up drama between me and Jude. Too bad her little scheme totally backfired.


    Jude didn''t say a word to her. Instead, he walked straight toward me and said, "Come with me. There''s a project we need to discuss."


    Before anyone could react, Jude grabbed my wrist and started pulling me away.


    We were nearly at the door when Vivian chased after us, heels cking across the floor.


    Vivian asked, "Jude, aren''t you gonna wait for me?"


    Jude didn''t even look back. "Go home. You''re not needed."


    Then Jude shoved me into the car and told the driver to go.


    I caught sight of Vivian in the rearview mirror. She was fuming, waving her fist at the car-but Jude''s face stayed stone cold.


    Jude didn''t speak, and I didn''t feel like saying anything either. I just leaned back and closed my eyes.


    What I didn''t expect was that Jude actually did take me to talk about a project. There was a n to build a new overpass in the suburbs. Bidding hadn''t started yet, but Jude had already caught wind of it and wanted to act fast.


    For once, Jude didn''t make me drink. Instead, he kept downing ss after ss himself.


    It was barely noon, and Jude was already tipsy


    ached out, help me up."


    Sessfully unlocked!


    I looked at his nearly six-foot-three frame, then nced at my boy that barely had any weight to it. I took three steps back and pulled out my phone to call the driver.


    Jude looked a little hurt, but the second our eyes met, I looked away.


    ''We''re getting a divorce. No point pretending to be close now,'' I thought. Chapter 53 She''ll Pay For It


    Back at the office, I ignored still-drunk Jude and went straight to my desk.


    If I wasn''t taking the day off, I might as well get some work done.


    Just then, I suddenly received a phone call from Casey, who was bawling her eyes out.


    Casey cried, "Ada! My project got stolen-they''re recing me!


    "It''s just the boss''s cousin! He''s taking my spot after I worked on it for months!" Casey was crying so hard her voice was breaking.


    I could barely make out what she was saying, but I got the gist-some higher-up rtive was taking credit for her work, and now she was getting pushed out.


    "Casey, where are you? I''ming now," I asked.


    Casey said she was at a caf¨¦ near her office, so I grabbed my bag and headed out.


    In reality, Casey wasn''t the kind of person who cried easily. If she was this upset, something serious would definitely happen.


    The elevator was stuck on the top floor, so I didn''t wait-I ran on the stairs.


    When I got to the fifth floor, I suddenly heard Vivian''s voice from the stairwell, talking on the phone.


    "She just won a bid. She''s feeling all high and mighty right now. Just steal the files and it''s game over, isn''t it?"


    "Once you side with the boss''s cousin, your future''s secure."


    "Don''t worry-just get that Olsen bitch fired, and the money''s yours."


    I held my breath, staying perfectly still. Only when Vivian left the stairwell did I slowly start moving again.


    There weren''t many people with thest name Olsen. And the only one Vivian hated that much? It had to be Casey. After what I just heard, I was boiling with rage. ''That damn Vivian. It isn''t enough for her toe after me-now she''s targeting my friends too?''


    I clenched my fists and picked up my pace. ''If Vivian dares to go after Casey, I''ll make her pay for it.''


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    Chapter 54 Clue


    Chapter 54 Clue

 Chapter 54

    Chapter 54 Clue


    Chapter 54 Clue


    I got out of the cab and headed straight for the caf¨¦.


    By the time I got there, Casey''s eyes were already swollen from crying. She stammered her way through the exnation. Turned out, after winning the bid today, a colleague secretly told Casey she was about to get reced


    Her boss nned to let his cousin take over once things got rolling, so Casey wouldn''t get any of the bonus payouts


    "We''re talking at least two hundred thousand dors! Two hundred thousand dors!" Casey sobbed, her voice hoarse Casey added, "He sweet-talked me into joining back then, and now he''s setting me up to fall


    I patted her back gently while asking, "Did they get the confidential designs too?"


    Everything from the design team was supposed to be locked down. Even though she trusted me a lot, Casey had personally double-checked everything herself yesterday.


    If someone wasn''t part of the core design team, there was no way they''d get


    ess.


    Hearing this, Casey mmed the table with a clenched fist. She said, "Someone messed with myputer. Most of the designs were copied, but I held back the core files."


    I nodded. ''As long as they don''t have everything, we''ve got a shot.


    Casey''s phone rang just then, and when she saw the caller ID, her face darkened. She put it on speaker without a word. "Casey, heard you''re not feeling well and took a sick day? Take your time, don''t rush back. I know it''s hard to talk right now too."


    "Don''t worry about the project. My cousin just got back from abroad, he''s in design too. Let him fill in for a few days"


    "Get some rest. Don''t let work wear you down."


    The contact wasbeled "BOSS," and I immediately knew it was that asshole she keptining about.


    Casey gave a soft nasal "Mm" and ended the call.


    We looked at each other and instantly got the message.


    The project had just won the bid, and the designs were already done. All that was left was someone to oversee it. Now that his cousin had stepped in, Casey was officially pushed out. By the time she returned, her spot would be gone.


    Casey mmed the table again. "I''m not giving him the designs."


    I nodded silently and thought, ''Since they reassigned her, she has no reason to stay responsible for that project.


    ''But things aren''t going to end just like that. I have toe up with a way to make sure she doesn''t take the fallter.


    The boss had already spoken-Casey wasn''t going back anytime soon. With both of us technically on leave now, we decided to just head home.


    We originally nned to grab a huge dinner and vent a little, but then Jude called.


    Jude said, "My uncle''s grandson has a birthday today. They want us all to have dinner together."


    The second I thought of that noisy little brat, I instinctively wanted to say no.


    But Jude must''ve known what I was gonna say, because he said directly, "Don''t worry, I already got the gift. And Grandpa wants us both to go."


    Since Jude mentioned Ewan, I knew I couldn''t say no. Then I looked at Casey with a bit of guilt.


    Casey nudged me. "Go on. I could take a nap anyway. Don''t worry."


    Once I made sure Casey would stay in, I headed out. I didn''t expect to see Jude waiting downstairs.


    "Figured you''d try to ditch, so I came myself," Jude said.


    This time Jude didn''t bring a driver-he drove himself.


    Therefore, I didn''t make a fuss about it and just got into the passenger seat.


    Jude seemed happy about that, even sounded more rxed, though there was a little teasing in his tone. "Why''d youe back so soon? Weren''t you at the office?"


    I replied, "Casey got screwed over at work. I har to back


    Jude let out a soft snort. "You really look out fo


    Sessfully unlocked!


    he hip back in school."


    ''He used to say that all the time in college, I thought.


    Back then, I didn''t have many friends. After getting together with Jude, I had even less time to build friendships.


    If it weren''t for Casey, I probably wouldn''t have made it through chemo alone. Chapter 54 Clue


    But I didn''t want to get into that with Jude now, so I changed the subject. "What''s the deal with Design Department Three?"


    I honestly didn''t see the point. I managed Department One and Department Two- top-tier people, some of the best in the


    field.


    Adding a third team with questionable skills seemed unnecessary.


    Jude replied, "I was talking to Aiden the other day. He said we should start taking


    on smaller projects too, since we''re expanding the branch offices.


    "Makes sense when you think about it. I know you don''t rate these rookies, so I didn''t assign them to you."


    "Aiden said that?" I raised an eyebrow.


    Jude nodded.


    Aiden was Bodhi''s son-the birthday boy''s dad. Jude didn''t get along with most of his family, but he and Aiden were alright.


    Still, I never liked Aiden. Something about him always felt sneaky and calcting. Suddenly, something clicked in my head-but just as quickly, it slipped away.


    I remembered Vivian might''ve been involved in Casey''s situation, so I asked, "What did Vivian major in?"


    I vaguely recalled someone saying her degree wasn''t even rted to the work she was doing.


    "History? Tourism? I can''t remember. Why are you asking?" Jude said.


    Just then, the car in front of us braked hard. Jude mmed on the brakes and muttered a curse under his breath, not


    paying much attention to my question.


    I turned to look out the window, still feeling like something wasn''t quite right.


    By the time we reached the Carson estate, it felt like all the scattered pieces in my


    head were finally starting toe together.


    ¿Ú


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 Chapter 55

    Chapter 55 No Way


    Ewan hoved Aade, but unfortunately, he only had one grandson-Jude


    Akten''s son had just turned two and was at that adorable stage. Everyone doted on him.


    Even though the birthday dinner was just family, it was still over the top luxurious.


    Atreihe kept making anidements about me not having kids, while the others tried to smooth things over.


    I focused on eating lobster and sea cucumber. Food always tastes better when you''re not the one paying for it Once well eaten and drank our fill, I Corner scrolling through my phone. Thest thing I wanted was to deal with


    more of the Carsons


    At that moment, Juno walked over with a smile, holding a cup of coffee. "It''s to help with digestion-just sip a little.¡±


    Juno sat down next to me like she had something to say, but didn''t know how to start.


    I put the coffee aside and got straight to the point. "Just say it, Anut Juno. What''s going on?"


    Juno gave me an awkward smile, then pulled out her phone. "Ada, honestly, I''ve always liked you more. You know how to cany yourself, and you''re capable too.


    Jude''s just temporarily blinded by someone. He''lle to his senses eventually- especially with a woman like Vivian."


    On her screen were two photos-Vivian having dinner with some guy.


    Juno forwarded them to me casually and said, "Seems like the mistress isn''t too loyal either. Gotta keep a few guys around,


    huh?


    "Especially when the man she''s clinging to still has a wife. What do you think Jude would do if he saw these?"


    With that, Jude patted my shoulder and walked off.


    1 stared at the man in the photos. He looked kind of familiar. I zoomed in. Suddenly, it hit me he was the guy I saw behind Casey at the bidding meeting.


    Even though he was wearing a baseball cap, the red birthmark on his left hand was hard to miss.


    I wondered, ''Could he be the one Vivian was talking to on the phone that day? And maybe the one who sold Casey out?


    he''s part of her team from the start, then it all starts to make sense.


    I was still mulling it over on the way out of the estate. Things that seemed totally unrted were starting to line up.


    On the way home, Jude noticed I was distracted but didn''t say much


    When we hit a fork in the road, I told him to stop the car. "Casey''s not doing great. I''m worried something might happen," I said


    I didn''t know how to exin why I didn''t want to go home with him. If I brought up divorce now, it''d just turn into another night, so I figured this excuse would do.


    Jude paused, then turned left and dropped me off at Casey''s ce.


    The second I walked in, I rushed to the bedroom. Casey was gaming, cussing up a storm.


    I grabbed her phone and asked, "Is this guy from yourpany?"


    Casey was about to snap at me, but when she saw the photo on my screen, she


    froze. ¡°Yeah, that''s Billy. Why the hell is he with Vivian?"


    I told her everything I overheard from Vivian''s call and that Juno was the one who sent the photos.


    We both went quiet. Something about it just didn''t sit right.


    In the end, we decided to look into it together the next day it was Saturday anyway


    We went to the restaurant in the photos, but we didn''t have a solid excuse to ask for security footage.


    It wasn''t something we could go to the cops about, and we didn''t have any official reason to be there. Plus, the ce didn''t ept bribes


    Then Pe''s voice floated over. "Well, if it isn''t the dynamic duo. What brings you to my family''s restaurant today?" Casey and Lexchanged a nce and pulled her aside.


    "What now? Kidnapping? ckmail? Gonna kill me to shut me up?" Pe looked all smug like we were the ones in trouble. Leald, "Pe, please we need your


    help."


    I knew Pe didn''t like me. Mostly because she had a thing for Jude. So the


    second I said please her face hit up "Please? Oh wow, now that''s rare. What kind of help? How are you gonna beg?" Pe asked


    Chapter 55 No Way


    Iid everything out, even mentioned that the woman causing all this drama was Jude''s mistress.


    Pe''s face immediately darkened. She snapped, "Vivian really is a piece of work. She-ugh, whatever. Consider it done.


    Wait here."


    Pe marched off, then turned and yelled back, "Order something! What am I, your unpaidbor?"


    I nodded fast and ordered a few desserts while we waited.


    True to form, it didn''t take long. In less than fifteen minutes, Pe was back with the footage.


    Vivian hadn''t just met with Billy-she''d handed him cash. Twice.


    "I don''t even know her. Why the hell would she try to screw me over?" Casey asked.


    I didn''t say anything. Pe, though, saw it crystal clear. She sipped her coffee and gave me a look.


    I nodded. "She''s targeting you because of me. I''m sorry, Casey. I dragged you into this."


    "Ada,e on. Don''t say that. How is this your fault? She''s the one causing all the dramal" Casey shot me a re, clearly not buying my guilt.


    But I couldn''t shake it. If it weren''t for me, Casey wouldn''t be in this mess. She wouldn''t be stuck wondering if she might lose her job.


    Pe mmed her cup down and shot me a look. "Ada, seriously? You can''t even handle someone like Vivian?"


    I let out a long sigh. "She''s Jude''s darling. What can I do?"


    That just pissed Pe off more. She grabbed her bag, ready to storm off-but then stopped and turned back to me.


    Perl added, "If she pulls this crap again, I''ll send you the footage. Handle it.


    "Losing to you back in school? Fine. But losing to her? No way. You''d better beat her, or I swear I''ll make your life hell."


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 Chapter 56

    Chapter 56 Call The Police


    Chapter 56 Call The Police


    Once Casey confirmed who the mole was, she quickly tapped into her connections at work and pulled up the office surveince footage.


    There was a camera right outside the design department, and sure enough, the night before the data was tampered with, Billy hade back to the office after hours-and messed with theputer.


    A lot of the department''s projects used a shared system. As long as someone had ess to thepany login, they could go in and change things. No wonder Casey hadn''t noticed anything off at the time.


    Then after the project was approved and everyone was off celebrating, Billy snuck into the office again and plugged a portable hard drive into Casey''sputer.


    Even though Billy tried to disguise himself, the birthmark on his left hand gave him away.


    Casey''s jaw clenched in fury. "Billy is such a piece of crap. I covered for himst time when he screwed up, and this is how he repays me?"


    I grabbed her hand and tried to calm her down. "Casey, you need to see the bigger picture. Billy didn''t steal the files for himself. He gave them to your boss."


    That was the real danger. Billy was just the pawn. Her boss was the one pulling the strings.


    Casey was too good at her job, and that made her a threat.


    Casey hadn''t even been with thepany a full year, yet half the team already trusted her.


    That was clear during the bidding process-almost the whole team had followed her lead.


    But people who shine too bright always get on the boss''s nerves.


    Thepany was a family-owned business. They probably paid her that high sry with an ulterior motive in mind.


    Casey clenched her fists, her eyes reddening. "No way, Ada. I''m not letting this slide. I didn''t do anything wrong. Even if they fire me, I want the truth out there."


    Billy might''ve been faking it, but Casey''s anger was real. I lowered my eyes and agreed silently. ''They want her talent but not her voice.


    ''She has created those designs-now they want to use them for free? That''s just exploitation.''


    When we walked back into the office, the team gathered around immediately.


    Casey didn''t waste time. She plugged the sh drive into the conference roomputer and yed the footage-Billy messing with the files, then stealing data. Then everyone turned to stare at Billy.


    Billy instinctively looked at their supervisor, who just leaned back in his chair and gave Casey a dismissive look.


    The supervisor asked, "So, you''re the designer, right? I heard you almost messed up a whole project with faulty data. And now this? What are you trying to pull?


    "The footage is grainy. You seriously iming Billy stole your work?"


    "What do you think?" Casey''s voice was hoarse, but steady.


    The evidence was right there, but some people just didn''t want to admit the truth.


    The boss stormed in, clearly ticked off. "Casey, what the hell are you doing? I told you to go home.


    "This project belongs to thepany. You work for us-what''s wrong with sharing your designs with the team? "Well, let me make it easier for you. You''re out of the design department. Starting now, you''re moving to logistics." So that was the n all along. They''d been waiting for Casey to fall sick so they could push her out quietly. Casey started to say something, but I stepped in front of her.


    I said, "Most of the key design work was done by Casey alone. Yeah, she''s an employee, but she was never paid for that part of the project. That means thepany doesn''t have the right to just use it however they want."


    The manager scoffed. "Then sue us. By the time you get anywhere with that, the project will be over. Let''s see what you can


    really do."


    ''So that''s how they are gonna y it. Real low, I muttered.


    A couple coworkers and I had to hold Casey back to stop her from rushing the guy.


    I''d already expected something like this. That boss was clearly nning to throw her under the bus the minute he had, an


    excuse.


    Chapter 56 Call The Police


    But what they didn''t realize was, the real core designs hadn''t been copied at all. They thought they were winning, but they were just ying themselves.


    I said, "Fine. Then thepany should release an official statement. From this moment on, Casey has nothing to do with the project. She''s not responsible for anything rted to it."


    "dly!" The boss actually seemed pleased. He waved a hand. "If that''s how you want it, then Casey''s done here. No need to stay."


    I hadn''t expected him to be so bold, but before I could speak up, Casey gritted hereth and said just one word-"Fine." Casey looked over at me with a pitiful expression, then shook her head.


    And right then I knew-Casey waspletely done with this ce. There was no going back.


    When we got home, I got a message from Pe on Whatsapp. She''d gone back to check more security footage. Turned out Billy hadn''t just messed with data-


    he''d actually stolen a bunch of files and handed them over to Vivian.


    I reached out to Ellen right away and asked her to send over the project files from Design Department Three. Casey took one look and frowned. "These designs-l didn''t use them back then. How the hell did they end up at the Carson Group? Vivian bought my work? Billy sold it?"


    I stood there for a second, thinking hard, then grabbed my jacket. "Casey, get your materials ready. We''re going to the police."


    Even the drafts Casey didn''t use-those were still her intellectual property. No one had the right to use them.


    It looked like Jude was trying to hand Design Department Three over to Vivian, and Vivian was ready to make a move. Too bad Vivian didn''t know what she was doing. Just because she came up with a sneaky n didn''t mean she could actually pull it off.


    When we walked into Carson Group with the police, Vivian was still clinging to Jude''s arm, giggling. "Jude, there is a new bag. And their people called me. Let''s go take a lookter, okay?"


    As the secretary led us in, Vivian finally let go of him.


    One of the officers stepped forward. "Ms. Miller, you''re suspected of stealing corporate trade secrets. Pleasee with us."


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 Chapter 57

    Phentar A Apoliage


    Chapter 57 Apology


    The police had and evidence Vivian had no way to argue back, even if she wanted to


    Mareaver the project the Carson Group was using right now was based on Casey''s design, which made it unders


    Several of her previous coboratory could n prove that the design had been submitted before


    Vivian crisi pitifully at the station, but I showed no emotion


    Jude, on the other hand, was like a cat on a hot tin roof. He even contacted Garsofroup''s legal team, insisting on freeg Vivian out


    After ending the call, he red at me viciously "Ada, how can you be so cruci?"


    "Not as cruel as your little lover stealing trade secrets" I rolled my eyes at him and grabbed Casey, who was about to fash out again


    She was huning, and arguing with Jude in a police station wouldn''t help anything


    Jude rubbed his temples and didn''t even try to deny it. It looked like even he believed Vivian was capable of doing


    I couldn''t figure out his logic. He had been in this industry long enough to know the boundanes. Yet he let Vivian do something like this.


    Hlowered my gaze and ignored his anger. In the end, the police stepped in.


    "Mister, your assistant clearly stolemercial secrets. I suggest you stop threatening the victim here the officer sac He looked at me and sighed. "Especially when the victim is your wife."


    It seemed like we were regrs at the station, and the whole police department knew what was going on between me at Jude


    The mistress stole the original wife''s best friend''s design. No matter how one looked at it, this wasn''t just a business esse, it reeked of personal drama.


    I looked at Jude with a nk expression. "Casey is the real victim here. These were her designs. They never belonged to herpany. You''d better convince Vivian to confess. A lighter sentence is better than a long one?


    If she was convicted, she was definitely looking at jail time. This wasn''t exactly a huge case, since it involved some Scrapped designs,


    But it wasn''t small either. Based on market value, stealing designs worth hundreds of thousands of dors could easynd Vivian in prison for a few years,


    When Jude''swyer arrived, he was visibly awkward when he saw me, but still followed Jude to talk to the police


    I didn''t know what they discussed, but the police came back suggesting we consider a settlement.


    As soon as we entered the interrogation room, Vivian broke down in tears, but still looked at me with resentment


    She said, "I didn''t know anything about this. I don''t know why someone''s trying to frame me. Billy told me those designs were his. I only purchased some designs for thepany."


    She added, "Jude, she''s jealous of how close we are and is trying to set me up. Please don''t believe her


    Vivian was ying it smart. She focused entirely on me and the supposed emotional conflict,pletely dodging the design theft issue.


    And she painted herself as someone doing it all for thepany. How touching.


    A poor woman sacrificing everything for love, getting framed by the ex-wife. It was truly tragic.


    I said, "We''ve also filed charges against Billy. Let''s see what he has to say. Anyway, we''ve got the evidence"


    I cut her off mid-sob. "The police''s tech department isn''t just sitting around doing nothing. That video should be able to read lips, right? If you''re so sure I''m framing you, go ahead and sue me. Spare us the drama."


    I was tired of her fake innocence and dragged Casey out of the room.


    Since she didn''t want to settle it peacefully, we weren''t going to waste time either. Billy had already exined everything in detail.


    Not only did he confess that Vivian had instructed everything, but he had also taken precautions. He recorded every meeting with her. Now they didn''t even need to read lips.


    Faced with overwhelming evidence, Vivian had no way to argue and could only beg Jude.


    When Jude came over to talk to me and Casey, he clearly wasn''t happy, but he still tried to hold it together for his little lover


    He said, "Ada, Casey, can we talk?"


    "You okay, Ada?" Dorian somehow found out what happened and rushed over, immediately stepping in front of Jude


    Chapter 57 Apology


    "What? Carson Group''s CEO still thinks he can throw his weight around at the police station?" Jude clenched his fists, but in the end, let go.


    His eyes fell on me again. "No one benefits from making a big deal out of this. If Casey sues Carson Group, her career will


    be over."


    "Jude, are you admitting you told Vivian to do all of this?" My voice was sharp, and I was trembling. If it was really him, I wasn''t just going to divorce. I''d destroy him.


    Jude met my eyes without the slightest guilt. He looked at me like I was an idiot. "ou think that''s even possible?" His reaction, oddly enough, calmed me down. If our marriage ended with all-out war, I would be devastated.


    He softened his tone, speaking quietly. "But the project design was used by the Carson Group. I''ll take responsibility. I''ll apologize to Casey."


    I said, "And how exactly will you take responsibility? Casey has already lost her job and her designs. You think an apology is enough?"


    Jude had always been good at apologizing. Back in college, he wrote me tons of apology letters. Saying sorry was second nature to him.


    He took a deep breath and reluctantly looked at Casey. "We''ll pay for the project design based on market value, plus 10%pensation."


    Casey didn''t react. Neither did I. It was way too easy to let Vivian off like this.


    Seeing we weren''t budging, Jude finally clenched his teeth and said, "Casey cane to Carson Group. She''ll be in charge of the entire Design Department Three."


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 Chapter 58

    Chapter 58 The Best Choice


    As soon as Jude said that, both Casey and I were stunned.


    Carson Group''s design department wasn''t just somewhere anyone could waltz into. I remembered Caseyining to me back in the day. She had interviewed twice and didn''t get in.


    But now Jude wasn''t just backing down all for Vivian''s sake. He was offering for Casey to manage Department Three.


    Design Department Three wasn''t exactly known for excellence, but parachuting someone in as department head was unheard of.


    Not to mention, being a department head at Carson Group wasn''t the same as just being a designer at some otherpany.


    I could tell Casey was a little moved, but she still turned to look at me. I knew what that meant. She was tempted.


    Dorian shot Jude a cold nce. "Mr. Carson, you''re really generous. No bottom line at all for your little lover?"


    Jude cleared his throat and tried to look righteous.


    He said, "Since Carson Group used Casey''s designs, it makes sense for her to oversee Department Three''s projects. I''m doing this for thepany, and for her future."


    He put extra weight on the words "her future," and his eyes stayed fixed on me. He knew exactly what I cared about most.


    Casey was one of the few close friends I had. I couldn''t just stand by.


    He knew that if there was even the smallest chance for her, I''d give in.


    And this was her own matter to begin with. Jude really knew how to y the human heart.


    I pressed my lips together and looked at him, a little conflicted.


    He seemed to sense my hesitation and breathed a sigh of relief.


    Jude said, "I keep my word. If she joins ourpany, her best friend will be her direct superior. No one will mistreat her. If designs she considered throwing out were still good enough, that says a lot about her talent."


    "Department Three has long needed the right leader. Casey, think it over carefully." He looked so sincere, like he really admired her ability.


    I lowered my head, unsure of what to say.


    For a designer, Carson Group was no doubt a great opportunity.


    Casey had worked so hard for years, only to get backstabbed by her newpany. Of course, she felt bitter.


    And if she tried to find another job, word of what happened would spread fast in the industry. It''d be hard for her to get a foothold again.


    But if she could join Carson Group, it might turn disaster into opportunity, and p her oldpany in the face.


    Still, letting Vivian off the hook like this...


    I clenched my fists. I couldn''t ept it. She had dared to target my friend. That was a line she crossed.


    Suddenly, Casey''s hand covered mine. She inteced our fingers and gave them a little shake.


    Her eyes flicked toward the door, and I got it right away.


    I said, "Jude, we need to discuss this first. We''ll get back to you."


    I pulled Casey out of the station, with Dorian following us.


    Jude took a few steps but didn''t follow.


    But Vivian would still need to cooperate with the investigation. She might be stuck


    in there for 24 hours. Let her stew a bit.


    Dorian gave us a ride and even offered Casey a position at hispany.


    He said, "My design department is still in its early stages, but there are lots of external projects lined up. We really need someone like you."


    He was just as sincere, but after a brief hesitation, Casey politely turned him down.


    When we got back to her ce, she copsed onto the sofa and looked at me pitifully. "Ada, what should I do?"


    "Take the money. Compensation is non-negotiable," I replied without hesitation.


    No matter what, whether Casey joined the Carson Group or not, we took that money.


    It might only be around 60 thousand dors in total. It was just small project drafts, but it was still something.


    But if she joined the Carson Group, that would be a whole different story. Even if she left a few yearster, the resume


    Chapter 58 The Best Choice


    would be impressive, not to mention theworking opportunities.


    Thinking about how I might be divorcing Jude soon, and looking at Casey''s conflicted face, I smiled.


    I replied, "Carson Group''s design department is top-tier. The projects they take on are nothing like your oldpany''s."


    I added, "I know your ability. With two years of experience there, your career could really take off. Carson Group is a good move."


    She sat up straight with a look of annoyance on her face. "Ada, what are you saying? You want me to give in?"


    I knew why she was really struggling. She was thinking about me.


    I put my arm around her shoulders and said gently, "We''re not kids anymore.


    Don''t be so emotional. You know Carson Group is your best option.


    "And I''ll definitely be leaving Carson Group after the divorce. You''ll have better prospects. Don''t you get it?"


    Most of Carson Group''s design work was team-based now. Aside from me as the director, there wasn''t muchpetition.


    If I left, with her skills, Casey could very likely be the new director.


    She stared at me in a daze, tears welling up in her eyes. "Casey..."


    She hugged me tightly. I smiled and raised my hand. Then everything went ck,


    and I felt myself falling backward,pletely out of control.

 Chapter 59

    Chapter 59 Humiliation


    I felt a stream of cold liquid flowing into the vein in my right hand, and the familiar smell of disinfectant filled my nose. I instantly knew I was in the hospital.


    Maybe it was all the stress from Casey''s situation, but my health had gotten worse. I''d get nosebleeds for no reason and faint without warning.


    No wonder the doctor insisted I always have someone with me. Without Casey, I right have died without anyone noticing.


    When I opened my eyes, I saw Casey sleeping beside me. I struggled to reach for a bottle of water, but arge hand quickly unscrewed the cap and handed it to me.


    Dorian said, "You''re awake? Do you feel unwell anywhere?"


    His big hand rested on my forehead, and the warmth from his palm made even the dizziness feel a little better.


    I took a big gulp of water and finally felt a bit more alive.


    Casey suddenly jerked awake, her hair aplete mess. "Ada, why did you faint again? Haven''t you been eating properlytely?"


    Her voice was so hoarse it was about to sound like an old man''s. I quickly stopped her from speaking.


    "Alright, if you keep talking, you''ll be the one needing an ENT doctor next. I''m fine. And besides, you know about the chemo.. "I suddenly stopped mid-sentence, eyes widening as I looked at Casey.


    Dorian was still here. I shouldn''t mention my illness in front of him.


    Casey smiled awkwardly. "He called when you fainted, and I panicked... Anyway, he knows."


    She lowered her head like a kid waiting to be scolded.


    I slowly turned to look at Dorian. His eyes were filled with sympathy, and something like pain.


    He said, "Why didn''t you tell me? No wonder you kept getting nosebleeds and fainting. Ada, do you still see me as a friend?"


    I didn''t know how to respond. The room fell into a heavy silence.


    Thankfully, the doctor came in just then, going over a few precautionary measures with me.


    He gave me a once-over and shook his head. "I''ve said it before. You''re underweight. You need to get proper nutrition."


    He continued, "I know it''s hard to eat sometimes, but you still have to try. You need to prepare for your next round of chemo,


    understand?"


    I nodded lightly. But deep down, I knew I really couldn''t eat.


    Dorian grabbed the doctor and asked anxiously, "Is the fainting caused by the chemo?"


    The doctor frowned at him, then nodded.


    The doctor said, "Your wife even went through surgery alone. No matter how busy you are, you should still take care of your family, understand?"


    Realizing the doctor misunderstood, Dorian didn''t bother correcting him. He just nodded repeatedly.


    Then he turned to me. "He doesn''t know?"


    I nodded. There was no point in exining.


    Dorian didn''t ask further. He just helped me get discharged and drove us home.


    Before leaving, he reminded me over and over to contact him right away if anything happened and made sure I had his number set as an emergency contact. Only then did he leave.


    Casey looked at his departing figure and sighed a little.


    She said, "You know, if you''d ended up with Dorian back in the day..."


    "Impossible." I denied it tly. There was no way I could''ve ended up with him.


    Back then, I loved Jude so much. I didn''t think I would love anyone else. But now, everything had changed.


    That afternoon, the HR department called Casey, asking when she could start. She looked at me, and I took the phone and told them we''d be there right away. This kind of thing should be done sooner rather thanter. After all, Jude might backtrack. That man has absolutely zero credibility now.


    When we arrived at thepany, I took Casey straight to Jude.


    He didn''t look surprised at all that we epted the settlement.


    Chapter 50 Humiliation


    He said, "If you agreed to settle, why didn''t you answer my calls? You did it on purpose, didn''t you? You wanted Vivian to suffer in the police station. Ada, I never thought you''d be so cruelt


    His voice was hoarse, and there were dark circles under his eyes. It looked like he hadn''t slept all night.


    I checked my phone. It had been on silent.


    Just as Casey was about to exin, I pulled her back. ¡°Let''s deal with the paperwork first"


    Jude said, "Ada, you can go this far for your best friend, but why do you have to treat your husband like trash?"


    Jude suddenly stormed over, blocking my path.


    I looked at him, confused "I''m treating you like trash? Jude, don''t twist the facts"


    I continued, "Since we got married, how many women have you brought home? And how many times have you humiliated me for Vivian, your mistress?"


    "How do you even have the nerve to say I''m the one mistreating you?" I had more


    to say, but a sharp pain hit my chest, and I couldn''t be bothered to argue.


    I shoved his stunned figure aside. "If you want to save your precious mistress, transfer the money now. Otherwise, the


    settlement''s off."


    After we finished the paperwork, I sent Jude a message telling him to go to the police station.


    When we arrived, he had already picked up Vivian. She was clinging to Jude, crying like a child.


    She said, ¡°Jude, why did it take you so long toe? I was so scared. I did all of


    this for you... for thepany. Why can''t Ada just let me go?"


    Jude gently stroked her back, full of tender affection.


    I looked at the scene in front of me and slowly smiled. It was perfect. Now maybe


    he really won''t refuse to divorce me.

 Chapter 60

    Chapter 60 Return


    So it turned out that Jude had been trying to bail Vivian out through hiswyer all along. And now that we were willing to settle, she could be released.


    Seeing thewyer looking like death warmed over, I silently mourned for him. He''d been stuck cleaning up Jude''s messes for years. That had to be exhausting.


    Since she had epted thepensation, Casey didn''t hesitate and signed the loser of understanding.


    The police gave a few more warnings, then had Vivian sign a letter of guarantee before finally letting her go.


    But the moment we stepped out of the police station, Vivian stopped crying. Instead, she red at us with hatred in her


    eyes.


    She questioned, "Ada, I knew you only cared about money. Is Jude''spany worth less than a bit of cash to you? You never loved Jude. You''ve been lying to him for his money from the start!"


    She continued, "You''re just a gold-digger! What right do you have to stand next to Jude? All you do is make him aughingstock!"


    Jude stood behind her, silent, his eyes fixed on me with a deep, unreadable expression.


    I looked at him and gave a mocking smile.


    Vivian said I didn''t love Jude. She had no idea I nearly lost my life because I loved him too much.


    But now, that love was slowly fading. Soon it''d bepletely gone.


    I said, "Tell that to him. And while you''re at it, have him sign the divorce papers."


    I grabbed Casey and walked away, not sparing Vivian another nce.


    She was probably seething, but I didn''t care anymore.


    She still didn''t get it. The one who refused to let go wasn''t me. It was Jude. If he''d just divorce me, all of this would end. Vivian must have been livid. She shouted behind me, "Ada! You don''t even wear your wedding ring anymore. You just want other men to think you''re single, don''t you?"


    She added, "I know you used to be the campus beauty. Plenty of guys chased after you. So what? You''re just using one guy while looking for a better one. How disgusting!"


    I stopped in my tracks and turned to look up at them.


    Even though she looked a little worn out, Vivian still had that round face, big eyes, and those dimples she''d carefully drawn on. She really did look a lot like me.


    Vivian seemed to realize it too. That resemnce was the only reason Jude loved her. So even her makeup had changed to mimic mine. She didn''t even look like herself anymore.


    I smirked. "Then you go find someone else too. If you''ve got what it takes, make him divorce me first."


    "Ada!" Jude and Vivian called my name at the same time, and in that moment, it felt like my name had be filthy.


    Jude stepped forward and grabbed my left hand.


    Seeing the absence of even the faintest ring mark, his eyes filled with disappointment.


    He asked, "Ada, why aren''t you wearing the ring? You know I made it myself! Does love mean nothing to you? Is money all


    you see?"


    Casey shouted, "So what? You only just noticed that she didn''t wear a ring now?"


    She yanked his hand off me and shielded me behind her. "You''d spend all that money on your mistress, even protect her when she breaks thew, but your legal wife didn''t even have the money to get treatment. She could only..."


    I quickly reached out and covered Casey''s mouth. "Just low blood sugar, nothing dramatic. Don''t make a scene."


    I would never let Jude find out about my condition.


    If Vivian just tried a little harder, we could be divorced soon. I couldn''t risk letting him feel guilty now and refuse to let me


    1. go.


    I knew Jude well. No matter how much he hated me, if he found out I was sick, there was no way he''d just walk away. But that was exactly what I wanted, for him to walk away.


    Casey seemed to realize she''d said too much. She red fiercely at Jude and hurriedly took me away.


    Back home, her eyes were wet as she asked, "Why didn''t you tell him? You should let him feel guilty!"


    I knew she was just upset on my behalf. But I didn''t want to talk about it anymore.


    Chapter 60 Return


    I replied, "Casey, you know Vivian wasn''t the first, and she won''t be thest. There''s no point making him feel guilty. I''d rather leave now than be stuck in limbo."


    I leaned my head on her shoulder and whispered, "I just want to finish out the rest


    of my life. I don''t even know when the illness mighte back."


    I''d secretly looked it up. If this cancer rpsed for a third time, my chances weren''t great.


    Sure, some people survived another twenty years, but those were rare cases. And I''d never been that lucky. There wasn''t much hope.


    That night, Casey held me as we slept. She cried quietly behind me more than


    once, but I pretended not to hear and forced myself to sleep.


    The next day at work, Jude actually showed up in the design department.


    He said, "Come to the office with me."


    I nodded, grabbed the paperwork he needed to sign, and followed him upstairs.


    Vivian wasn''t at her desk. She was probably on leave. After all, she''d just gone through something big.


    I noticed a few luxury shopping bags on the floor and smiled. It seemed Jude had already prepared gifts for her.


    It seemed like a little treat to soothe her nerves. It was really thoughtful and expensive.


    "This is for you." Jude''s voice pulled me out of my thoughts. I turned around to


    see him pushing a jewelry box toward me.


    When I didn''t move, he opened it himself.


    My breath caught in my throat. Insidey the wedding ring I''d had Casey pawn for


    me.


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 Chapter 61

    Chapter 61 Exit


    Looking at the ring that had been with me for three years, I felt a lump in my throat.


    The joy I had when I first put it on was now reced by equal sorrow.


    Jude might never understand how I felt, and I no longer expected him to.


    He said, "Ada, I''m sorry. I didn''t know you had hypoglycemia. You must''ve been so scared at the time. That''s why you pawned the ring, right?"


    He added, "I''ve already had Veronica transfer 300 thousand dors to your card. You can spend it however you the No need to pawn the ring again."


    He stood up, looked at me tenderly, and even tried to put the ring back on my finger


    I took two steps back, eyes devoid of any emotion.


    He could follow Casey''s words to go look for the ring, even redeem it for me, but he never once tried to find out what iness I had.


    I didn''t know whether to be happy or sad. It seemed he didn''t really care about my condition. He just wanted to put on a show of deep affection.


    Seeing that I didn''t want to wear it, he took out the big diamond ring he gave me during our anniversary.


    Jude said, "I bought this ring just for you. You''ve lost weight, so it only seems too big now. It wasn''t meant for someone else."


    He stubbornly pushed the ring into my hand.


    I hesitated for a second. What he said made sense, but I no longer cared.


    I put the ring back in his pocket. "Something this expensive... better not."


    We were getting divorced, after all. epting something so valuable now would be inappropriate.


    Jude seemed a little angry but quickly held it in and took out our wedding ring instead.


    He said, "I know you''re sentimental. That big diamond isn''t suitable for everyday wear. This one''s better."


    I replied, "Jude, the fact that I sold it means I didn''t want it anymore. There''s no need to give it back to me."


    I took the ring and ced it directly on the table.


    That ring no longer meant anything to me, just like this marriage.


    Just as Jude was about to say something, Vivian barged in without even knocking


    She said, ¡°Jude, do you like my outfit? And this is thetest designer handbag. The white one is so cute, right? And look at this bracelet. It finally came in stock. So sparkly!"


    "Mrs. Carson? What are you doing here?" The smile on her face slowly faded. Then she saw the ring on the table and scoffed.


    Vivian smirked. ¡°So you''re here for the ring? I almost forgot you love money the most. Do you want to take that set of emerald jewelry too? Gold digger?"


    I looked at her outfit, the pricey bracelet, and the luxury handbag. Then Iughed out loud.


    I mocked. "Did you buy those with your sry again? Assistant sries must be sky-high!"


    Her face turned red before she finally pouted and clung to Jude''s arm.


    "Jude." Her tone was soft and sweet.


    Jude just kept staring at me, lost in thought.


    Seeing that no one was backing her up, Vivian simply picked up the ring from the table and put it on her finger


    She said, "Perfect fit! Look! Absolutely perfect! Ada, this ring looks like it was


    made for me. You just waste Jude efforts. You heartless woman!"


    I watched Jude step forward and grab her hand, and I turned to leave the office. It


    all felt like it had been tailor-made for Jude.


    A girl who looked somewhat like me, and even had the same ring size as I once


    did. Maybe the original version of me was no longer needed.


    Before getting on the elevator, I saw Jude rushing over. I quickly closed the elevator doors.


    Today was Casey''s first day at work. I couldn''t miss it.


    When I arrived at Design Department Three, the atmosphere was a little tense.


    Chapter 61 Ex


    It was actually my first time here. I had seen many of them before, but didn''t even know their names.


    After a brief introduction of Casey, there was only sparse apuse from the team.


    I knew parachuting a leader into the team was always hard to ept, especially when this department seemed closely connected to Vivian,


    One young man looked at Casey with clear disdain, and maybe even a hint of fear.


    I could guess that he was likely the one who had stolen her design. No wonder he looked so guilty.


    Casey, however, remained upbeat and unfazed.


    She said, "Everyone, we''re all part of the same team now, I hope I can be a good friend to you all.


    "Since it''s my first day, I''d like to treat everyone to a meal, just a chance for us to get to know each other."


    Casey was enthusiastic, smiling warmly, but her coworkers'' eyes all darted away. She stood there awkwardly, and I quickly stepped in.


    A voice rang out. "Ms. Olsen didn''t mean anything else. She just wants to build rapport. If tonight''s not convenient, we can reschedule."


    A girl nearby handed me her phone, and I saw that Vivian had already arranged a dinner with Department Three earlier that morning.


    She said, "Sorry. Ms. Miller told us about her dinner ns early today, and we all agreed to go, so..."


    Everyone looked at me. I nodded.


    "Yeah, today''s notice was a littlest-minute. We''ll reschedule then. I''ll take Ms.


    Olsen to dinner with Departments One and Two tonight. That''s all."

 Chapter 62

    Chapter 62 Something Happened Again


    The people from Design Department Three didn''t look too happy, but I ignored them and went straight back to my office.


    Not long after, Casey sent me a message.


    [Someone tried to get on my good side. Seems like they want toe with us but don''t want to offend the mistress.]


    [Don''t worry about me. Their little tricks won''t work on me. Rx.]


    I replied with an emoji, then turned to my team to ask what they wanted to eat.


    The folks in the design department were mostly young. Even the more senior designers were lively and easygoing, so it didn''t take long before we settled on pizza.


    The fourth floor of Central Mall was packed with restaurants. After work, we headed straight to the pizza ce.


    Just as we arrived at the entrance, Vivian appeared with the team from Department Three, gracefully walking toward us.


    She said, "Ada, you''re still Mrs. Carson, and you''re treating everyone to this? Seriously. Only students like this kind of food. How much can it even cost?"


    I was long used to her passive-aggressive tone, so I didn''t take it to heart.


    It was true that Jude had transferred me 300 thousand dors. Without that money, I might''ve hesitated over even treating them to pizza.


    Ellen stepped up and gave her an eye roll. "We like pizza!"


    A few others quickly chimed in.


    "If you look down on pizza, then don''t you ever eat it again!"


    "You''ve got money, so why aren''t you treating us?"


    "What''s someone from the secretary department doing in design? Trying to win people over?"


    Vivian looked at them with utter disdain.


    She mocked. "You eat whatever kind of food your leader does. We''re going to the rooftop restaurant."


    I knew that restaurant. It was one of the most upscale spots in the city. The per- person price was at least 600 dors.


    I pressed my lips together and looked at her, a bit hesitant.


    I said, "Ms. Miller, you''re not nning to treat them with our shared marital assets,


    are you? Wouldn''t that technically mean I''m footing the bill?"


    I smiled at the colleagues behind her. Some looked away, while others returned the smile.


    Clearly, not everyone in Department Three was one of her loyalpdogs.


    ¡°If Jude gave it to me, it''s mine, and you have no..." She stopped mid-sentence when she saw me pull out my phone.


    I waved it at her. "I do have rights, actually. I''m still his wife, at least legally."


    I added, "If you dare use our money to pay, I''ll call the police. It wouldn''t even be your first time at the station, right? The second time''s always easier. I get it. You''re not afraid."


    Since we''d already torn the facade, I had no intention of saving her any face. Even if she became Mrs. Carson one day, it''d have nothing to do with me. Fuming, Vivian turned away, while I led my team into the pizza ce with joy. As we ate, Ellen updated me on the situation.


    She said, "Vivian only let each person order one steak, no dessert. They could only drink juice. No wine." Sheughed. " They''re allining in the group chat, saying they might as well have had instant noodles at home."


    I knew they had a private chat group to vent. I didn''t expect even people from Department Three to be in on it.


    Seeing the pictures they posted in the group andparing them to our pizza feast, everyone agreed. I''d made a brilliant choice. Pizza really was unbeatable.


    Casey nudged me with her elbow, motioning for me to look at her phone.


    It turned out that a few people from Department Three had pulled her into the group chat on WhatsApp.


    All day, no one had approached her. But after seeing Vivian''s behavior tonight, some had clearly started switching sides. After dinner, Casey got a little tipsy. She was in high spirits, clinging to me in the car and smothering me with kisses.


    She said, "Casey, I love you the most! You''re my lucky star! You''re so good to me. I''ll protect you, and when I make money, I'' II take care of you!"


    Chapter 62 Something Happened Again


    Under the driver''s curious gaze, I awkwardly tried to push her away, but she just clung to me again. Eventually, I just dragged her out of the car and into the bedroom. But she suddenly burst into tears.


    She cried, "Casey, you''re so wonderful... why did you have to get cancer? That scumbag Jude even bullies you. When I be powerful, I''ll destroy him!"


    She waved her fists in the air and then copsed.


    I helped her take off her shoes and looked at her helplessly.


    Still, I had made up my mind. I was going to help her establish herself at thepany.


    The next morning, I introduced Casey to apany I''d previously worked with on personal projects. Within just one morning, she closed a deal.


    It was the very first big project for Department Three. Everyone was overjoyed.


    She stormed into my office holding the contract and threw her arms around me in a bear hug.


    She eximed, "Ada, look! Inded the deal all by myself! God, you''re amazing!" Seeing her getting tongue-tied from excitement, I shoved her away in annoyance.


    I remarked, "Alright, alright. It''s just one contract. There''ll be more. What''s there to get so worked up about? Now wipe off your drool, you''re so annoying."


    Grinning, Casey brought me coffee and asked about the key points of the coboration before leaving happily.


    But I didn''t tell her that I had chemotherapy scheduled for the next day. She had her own career now, her own life. I shouldn''t rely on her forever. The next day, she left early for work. I took leave and went to the hospital.


    By now, HR was used to me taking time off. After all, I rarely showed up before.


    But what I didn''t expect was that something had happened to Casey after my chemo session.


    ¿Ú

 Chapter 63

    Chapter 63 Carefree


    Ellen''s voice on the phone was practically breaking. "Ada, where are you? Can youe to the police station?"


    She continued, "Ms. Olsen has been taken away by the police. They say she''s a major suspect, reported by her previous


    "A lot of people saw it happen. What do we do? Everyone''s saying she''s going to be fired."


    I was shocked. Despite feeling dizzy and weak, I stumbled into a taxi.


    By the time I got to the police station, I felt a little better, though my head was still heavy and spinning.


    Dorian spotted me right away and came over to support me. "You went to the hospital?"


    I nodded, not hiding anything.


    Dorian casually picked a strand of hair off my shoulder. I knew I was losing hair again. I couldn''t hide it for long.


    Dorian threw the strand into a nearby trash can and helped me sit down.


    He said, "Don''t worry. Casey will be fine. Her oldpany is stirring things up, but they don''t have enough evidence."


    I asked, "It''s about that bidding project, right?"


    I had a guess, and when I saw Dorian nod, I finally let out a breath.


    Back when Casey left, I had made sure her previouspany issued a statement clearing her of responsibility, signed and stamped by upper management.


    When we saw Casey''s former boss and his brother-inw, both looked furious.


    "It''s all because she resigned! That''s why the project couldn''t move forward, and now there''s been a major ident!"


    "The project design has issues now. Thepensation will be in hundreds of thousands of dors. Of course she should be responsible!"


    They sounded so righteous, I couldn''t help butugh.


    Seeing me sitting nearby, the boss scowled. "This is a country ruled byw. Casey has to pay! If she doesn''t pay, she''ll go to jail. Either way, she has to be held ountable."


    Casey was still inside being questioned. I stood up and pulled out the document I had brought.


    I had kept it in my bag this whole time. With everything that had happened, I''d forgotten to hand it over.


    I said, "Casey was terminated, not resigned. She went throughbor arbitration and waspensated ording to the N+ 1 policy. Thebor bureau has records of this."


    I added, ¡°And here''s a statement signed by her manager. It confirms that from the day she left, she no longer had any responsibility forpany projects and wasn''t authorized to receive any further payments."


    Just as I was about to hand the document to the police, the two men suddenly lunged at me, trying to snatch it away.


    I instinctively turned away, but still got shoved hard.


    Already dizzy, I stumbled forward and was about to fall.


    Luckily, Dorian reacted quickly and caught me. The police restrained the two men.


    "Are you okay? Do you need to go to the hospital?" he asked, clearly worried.


    I shook my head. I couldn''t leave, not until this was resolved.


    Dorian said, "The side effects from chemo are too much. Maybe you should..."


    "What are you doing?" Jude''s angry voice cut through, and Dorian didn''t let go of


    me.


    I leaned weakly against him. I really couldn''t stand on my own.


    "Ada!" Jude strode over, but Vivian grabbed his arm.


    She said, "Jude, this is the police station. Don''t get mad."


    She looked at me with a knowing smile. "Mr. Huxley, you''re really nice to Ada. Holding her like that? Don''t you care about your image?"


    Dorian ignored herpletely and focused only on me. "Can you still hold on?"


    I nodded.


    Jude seemed to notice something was off with me and pulled a candy from his pocket.


    He said, "You should always carry sweets if you''re hypoglycemic."


    Dorian was about to stop him, but I quickly took the candy and unwrapped it, popping it into my mouth.


    Chapter 63 Carefree


    It would be better if they all just thought I was hypoglycemic.


    I saw Jude smile slightly, and his mood seemed to lift.


    When the Carson Group''swyer arrived, Dorian''swyer came too. Jude, frowned at us.


    He said, "Casey is a Carson Group employee. Of course we''ll use our ownwyer."


    Dorian retorted, "Then why didn''t youe the moment she got into trouble? I saw you in the office earlier with your little girlfriend, heading upstairs."


    Dorian nced at them with disdain, then looked back at me.


    No wonder he was at the police station. He must havee straight from the office.


    Jude turned to me. "Ada, you''re her friend. You decide."


    He looked as if I didn''t choose theirwyer, he''d flip out. I looked at the Carson Groupwyer, then nodded.


    I said, "Let Mr. Calderon handle it. He has more experience."


    I wasn''t trying to insult anyone, but Vivian immediately blew up. "What do you mean by that?"


    I rolled my eyes, not bothering to answer.


    However, she wouldn''t let it go. "Ada, you''re always causing trouble for thepany!"


    She added, "Your friend just got here and is already in police trouble. How do you still have the nerve to stay?"


    "You smashed a bracelet worth over three million dors and didn''t pay. You leaked trade secrets and cost thepany 60, thousand dors, and you still didn''t leave. So why should I?" I shot back without hesitation.


    Watching her fume till her face turned bright red with fury, I didn''t feel dizzy anymore.


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 Chapter 64

    Chapter 64 Something To Say


    Vivian was rendered speechless by my sharp words and quietly sat to the side, clinging to Jude''s hand.


    I waited patiently for thewyers to finish dealing with everything. Carson Group''s legal team was one of the best, and handling this kind of situation was well within their ability.


    "Do you want something to drink? Something sweet?" Jude suddenly walked over to me, looking a bit awkward.


    He really did think I had hypoglycemia.


    Dorian immediately stood up. "No need. I''ll go buy something."


    Jude shot him a re and took the seat Dorian had just vacated.


    He pulled a few candies from his pocket and handed them to me.


    He said, "If you have low blood sugar, you should always carry candy. If you feel faint, eat one. These are all your favorite vors. I''ll get you some imported chocte next time."


    For a moment, I really did feel dazed again.


    Back in college, Jude didn''t have much money, but somehow he always had a few snacks in his pockets.


    I was a foodie but also cared about my figure, so I never dared to eat too much.


    He would always give me just a little, carefully chosen treats like some expensive chocte.


    Just as I was about to take the candy from his hand, Vivian''s ufortable voice cut in. ¡°Jude, I think I''m having an allergic reaction. It''s so itchy..."


    She squirmed in difort and held out her arm. There were scratch marks all over it, already swollen.


    I remembered how Vivian had said she was allergic to dog fur and insisted on sending Toto away. My gaze toward her grew colder.


    I had clearly seen her ying with a coworker''s corgi earlier. She would do anything just to make me miserable.


    Jude panicked when he saw her arm and quickly shoved the candy into my hand. "Vivian, don''t scratch. It''ll scar. I''ll take you to the hospital."


    As they reached the door, he suddenly remembered that his actual wife was still here.


    Jude turned to me. "I''ll be back soon. Wait for me."


    I didn''t respond, just looked in the direction of the interrogation room. Because I knew he wouldn''te back. He never did.


    As Dorian passed by them, he let out a cold snort and handed me a cup of milkshake.


    He said, "Your favorite. And some water too. If you''re hungry, I''ll get foodter."


    I smiled. I didn''t expect him to remember what kind of milkshake I liked.


    Actually, I didn''t really like milkshake. I used to drink it a lot at school because it was cheap.


    One dor a bottle, it was something Jude could afford.


    I could feel Jude''s gaze darkening, but I pushed the milkshake aside and picked up the water instead.


    I said, "Dorian, I don''t like that milkshake anymore. It makes me sick."


    Jude seemed like he wanted toe over, but Vivian held him back. "Jude, it''s so itchy..."


    Jude nodded and left with her.


    By the evening, Casey''s matter was finally settled. She had nothing to do with the incident. The otherpany just didn''t want to pay, so they tried to pin the me on her.


    As soon as Casey came out, she hugged me tightly. "Ada, I just remembered. You had chemo today, right? Why didn''t you call me?"


    My throat tightened. I couldn''t even getforting words out.


    Casey had just gone through questioning, and yet she still thought about me.


    Dorian gently patted both of us. "Since everything''s fine now, let me treat you to dinner. You must be starving."


    Casey nodded enthusiastically. "I''ll buy some rice snacks tomorrow to ease myself."


    Sessfully unlocked!


    We left the police station happily, chatting in the car about what to cat


    Suddenly, I noticed a familiar car in the rearview mirror. I looked closely at the te. It really was Jude. He actually came


    back.


    Then, Casey asked, "Ada, how about pizza? Let''s fire up some energy and get rid of the bad luck!"


    Chapter 64 Something To Say


    I nodded with a smile, though my eyes kept flicking to the rearview mirror


    Dorian seemed to notice Jude''s car too. No matter how many turns we made, we couldn''t shake him.


    The three of us ate pizza for over an hour, and Jude''s car remained parked outside the entire time.


    Then, a sudden downpour began without warning.


    Jude ran through the rain to the trunk of his car, pulled out an umbre, and rushed to the entrance of the pizza ce.


    Casey noticed him too and nced at me with concern. "Jude. Let''s go."


    I nodded slightly, realizing I probably wouldn''t be staying at her ce tonight.


    When he saw mee out, Jude hurried to hold the umbre over me.


    "It''s pouring. Careful not to get wet." Casey tugged on my arm, but I didn''t move.


    I knew Jude probably had something to say to me. I said, "Dorian, take Casey home first. Il talk with him."


    When I said that, Jude visibly let out a breath of relief.


    Dorian looked at me, then said nothing and left with Casey.


    Jude held the umbre for me as I got into the car, then ran through the rain back


    to the driver''s seat.


    Watching him run through the rain like that. It was just like college again.


    Back then, if it rained, he would alwayse to get me from the dorm or the library.


    Afraid I''d get wet, he always tilted the umbre toward me. I looked down at my clothes, and there was not a drop on me.


    He got in the car and wiped his rain-soaked face, grinning at me like a fool.


    Without thinking, I reached out to touch his face.


    Then my special ringtone rang. I quickly pulled my hand back.


    It was Vivian''s call. It came at the perfect timing as always.


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 Chapter 65

    Chapter 65 Lovesick


    Jude quickly hung up the phone, a trace of impatience still lingering in his eyes.


    He gave me an awkward smile and pulled out a ring box from his pocket. Inside were our wedding rings.


    Before he could say anything, I spoke first. "Jude, I already said, I won''t ept something that someone else has worn."


    He had seen with his own eyes how Vivian wore the ring that day, and now he wanted to put it on me.


    His hand froze mid air, clearly unsure of what to do next.


    He stared at me without blinking, then sighed. "Ada, do we really have to end up like this?"


    I didn''t understand what he was sad about. We ended up like this all because of him.


    But thinking about the things I had done, I lowered my head. I guess I yed a part in this too.


    *Jude, let''s get divorced." My tone was calm, like I was talking about something as mundane as what to have for dinner.


    Once the thought of divorce surfaced, it lingered constantly in my mind.


    Jude angrily tossed the ring into the back seat. ¡°Ada, you really want a divorce that badly? Dorian came back, and now you suddenly want to leave me? Do you regret not being with him back in college?"


    He brought it up again. I was getting annoyed and opened the door to leave.


    Just then, his phone rang again. Vivian was persistently calling him.


    There was a bit of impatience in Jude''s eyes, but also a trace of guilt. After all, Vivian was still the woman he cared about. He couldn''t just ignore her.


    Sure enough, after a few seconds of hesitation, he picked up.


    Vivian''s voice came through the phone, choked with sobs. "Jude, my allergy is getting worse. The doctor wants a family member here. Where are you?"


    At the same time, I opened the car door and got into the taxi behind us.


    I saw Jude get out of the car, calling after me, but it no longer mattered. He was Vivian''s man now, not mine.


    Once we divorced, even that thin marriage certificate wouldn''t bind us anymore. He''d be free.


    When I got back to Casey''s ce, she had already finished washing up and made me a cup of hot chocte.


    She said, "Drink this quickly. Don''t catch a cold. Then go shower and rest."


    She looked nothing like the person at the police station. Her cheeks were rosy.


    I hugged her tightly, then drank the hot chocte in one gulp. With a friend this good, I didn''t need a man in my life.


    That night, I slept unusually well. The next morning, I almost didn''t wake up in time.


    I clocked in at work right on the dot. Ellen looked like she was about to explode.


    "Ada, thank god you''re here. Mr. Carson isn''t¨ªnh


    "So?" I looked at her, not understanding the urgency.


    She quickly handed me a stack of project documents. "These all need Mr.


    Carson''s signature. They were supposed to be signed yesterday."


    She added, "But yesterday, Ms. Miller said he didn''t have time and would do it


    today. Now he''s not here, and he won''t pick up his phone."


    These projects were directly overseen by Jude. Without his signature, we couldn''t allocate manpower or funding.


    I took the documents upstairs, and as expected, Jude wasn''t there.


    Then Veronica, who hadn''t spoken to me proactively in a while, walked over.


    She asked, "Mrs. Carson, we haven''t been able to contact Mr. Carson all morning. He''s not with you?"


    I shot back, "You think he''d be with me?"


    Veronica was one of Ewan''s people. On paper, she was to assist Jude. But in truth, she was there to supervise me and make sure I wasn''t misusing funds.


    She didn''t like me from the beginning, and the feeling was mutual.


    We stared at each other in silence for a moment before I picked up the phone and called Jude. To my surprise, it was quickly answered.


    Vivian''s voice sounded. "Ada? You''re looking for Jude? He went to the doctor''s office to get my medical records." "You''re still at the hospital?" I was confused. How could a mild allergic reaction require such a long stay?


    Chapter 65 Lovesick


    Vivian sounded smug "Jude was so worried something might go wrong He insisted I stay for cheer nation af sepse s staying with me too."


    She added, "If you need something, just tell me. I''ll pass the message."


    "You''ll pass it on? I don''t think so. Let me speak to Jude" My tone turned cold i was not happy at all


    Jude rarely gave out his personal number, and when someone did call, it was always about something mortare


    And yet he had Vivian answer the phone, ignoring work altogether, I was really starting to lose all understanding of him Vivian clearly didn''t like my attitude either. Her voice instantly turned aggressive. Are you the boss or is hat who reports order me around?"


    She snapped, "Ada, stop making excuses to bother Jude, I won''t let him take your calls


    She hung up quickly. When I called back, I was immediately rejected again. It was clear she wasn''t going to let me ger through to him. Next to me, Veronica frowned.


    A WhatsApp notification popped up. It was Ellen telling me someone from the Bright Group had anved


    Last time, Raymond had waited a long time. This time, I knew I couldn''t afford to be careless


    As I headed for the elevator with the files, I nced at my phone again. Vivian had just posted a new post


    It was a picture of Jude in the hospital room, carefully taking care of her.


    I closed my eyes. I knew he wasn''ting back.


    He used to skip work just to stay by my side when I had a fever. Now, he was


    doing the same for Vivian. He redly hadhit


    changed at all. He was still the same man, hopelessly lovestruck, always letting emotions override everything else


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    Chapter 66 Take The me


    Chapter 66 Take The me

 Chapter 66

    Chapter 66 Take The me


    When I got back to thepany, I reluctantly headed to the meeting room.


    I said, "Mr. Dunce, today Mr. Carson, he..."


    He interrupted. "Isn''t here again, right? Ada, is Jude ying games with me? What does he take this coboration between the twopanies for?"


    Raymond was furious after learning Jude wasn''t there again. Having made two fruntess visits, he was done. No matter how I tried to persuade him, he refused to continue the partnership.


    I messaged Jude and posted the whole situation in the work group chat.


    Though I was the project lead, the ultimate responsibility didn''t lie with me. I wasn''t about to take the fall.


    Jude never contacted me and didn''t show up at the office all day.


    Colleagues from the design department kept asking what to do, but honestly, I had no solution.


    If the boss didn''t show up, no matter how anxious the subordinates were, it was pointless.


    Just when I thought he didn''t care about a deal worth hundreds of thousands of dors, the next morning, he called me


    into his office.


    Jude scolded, "Ada, look what you''ve done! You lost such a big project, and you''re going to take full responsibility for it!" I looked at the document he threw at me in confusion. It turned out it be the termination letter from Bright Group. The document clearly stated that the partnership was terminated due to ourpany''s fault, and we were liable forpensation.


    "Ada, you know how important this project was. Why did you screw it up?" Vivian was there too, bristling with indignation. She continued, "Ada, no matter what, you''re part of the Carson Group. How could you help Dorian instead? Even if you two have some sort of rtionship, you can''t just hand over the project to him!"


    Izily lifted my eyes to look at the two of them, their expressions almost identical in anger. And suddenly, Iughed. So that was it. Yesterday, Raymond had gone directly to Dorian, and they struck a deal.


    Now, Carson Group didn''t just lose the coboration. They had to paypensation. No wonder they were pissed. But none of this had to do with me.


    "Jude, are you out of your mind?" I threw the document back at him. "You didn''te back to sign the papers, and now you''re ming me?"


    I added, "Since when were you this irresponsible? When did you be so shameless?" I pulled out my phone and opened WhatsApp.


    I continued, "I messaged you. I tagged you in the group. What more do you want? Should I have dragged you out of the hospital myself? No one''s going to clean up your mess. If you don''t even care about your ownpany, who else will?" Jude frowned, staring at his phone, clearly confused.


    I caught a glimpse of Vivian looking guilty at the side, and I got it.


    If she had ess to Jude''s phone, she could''ve easily deleted my messages.


    But she wasn''t smart enough to think of everything. Just deleting from his phone wasn''t enough. Others still saw it.


    "Why didn''t you call? I didn''t see your messages. This is on you!" Jude started arguing irrationally. I realized he had became utterly shameless.


    I stared at him, amused. Vivian snapped first, "Ada, you did this on purpose for your lover, to screw over Jude! Thepany shouldn''t be the one paying for this!" She added, "You love money so much. Did Dorian offer you something?"


    Vivian looked at me with hatred in her eyes. I looked her over from head to toe. She was dressed in luxury bra worth over tens of thousands of dors. easily


    Being stared at made her ufortable, and she took a few steps back. I finally spoke. "Unlike some people, I don''t be someone''s mistress just for money."


    I turned to Jude. "Jude, I did call. I don''t know what Vivian told you, but you can check with the phonepany yourself."


    I picked up my phone and walked out of his office.


    If he had even a shred of brain left, he''d know who was messing with him and who he should be ming.


    But if he insisted on dumping the me on me just to protect Vivian, I wouldn''t mind dragging us both down in mes. The more I thought about it, the more frustrated I became.


    Chapter 66 Take The me


    It hit me. After loving this man for so many years, he turned out to be brainless. That about summed up how I felt


    Back when he cheated on me, I could chalk it up to revenge. After all, our breakup had been messy


    But now, he didn''t even care about hispany. All he did was try to pin everything on someone else to protect his mistress. I honestly couldn''t respect him anymore. I hadn''t even made it to the elevator before he caught up with me. Jude shouted, "Ada, wait!"


    I didn''t want to hear another word from him and quickly stepped into the elevator He reached out and grabbed my cor. My footing slipped, and I fell backward. Jude moved fast and caught me, but his right hand slid right through my hair. "I''m sorry, Ada. I didn''t mean to grab so hard. Are you okay?" His panicked voice echoed in the elevator


    I quickly stood up and looked down. He was holding a clump of my hair. It was a


    lot.


    I closed my eyes briefly. After several rounds of chemo, hair loss was inevitable.


    I said, "If only you worked as hard at your job as you do at causing me trouble."


    I rubbed the top of my head as if it hurt from his grip.


    Jude looked like he wanted to say more, but I was already in the elevator.


    The side effects of chemo were bing more obvious. Staring at my pale face


    and thinning hair in the elevator mirror! felt a wave of sadness.


    I really needed to go buy a pretty wig soon.


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 Chapter 67

    Chapter 67 Look Good


    Jude was really good at pulling somebody''s hair. He went straight for the top of my head.


    I was even starting to worry that my coworkers would notice I''m developing a bald spot. If that happened, I''d probably be the next joke in thepany group chat.


    During lunch break, I went alone to the wig shop behind the hospital. I still remembered the little girl undergoing chemotherapy telling me they had pretty twin tails there.


    I used to be terrified of wigs. They always gave me a strange, eerie feeling.


    But the moment I stepped into the store, I was surprised to find that it was full of hope. Wigs of all kinds lined the walls, and business was bustling. There were quite a few customers inside.


    When the shop owner saw me, she greeted me warmly.


    She said, "Hey sweetheart, looking for a particr style? Want me to show you around? Our wigs are the real deal, no synthetic fibers here! They''llst you a long time!"


    She looked about the same age as me, with a head of shiny, jet-ck hair. I couldn''t help but feel a little envious.


    But then, to my surprise, she took her wig off, revealing apletely bald head underneath.


    She said, "Jealous? You can totally pull it off. Our wigs are super pretty. You''re so good-looking. Even bald, you''d still outshine me. Don''t be scared."


    Her enthusiasm was contagious. After some thought, I chose a wig that resembled my current short hairstyle.


    As she helped me try it on, she kept chatting, saying how wigs are super popr


    overseas.


    She exined, "Every year, wigs sold abroad bring in big bucks. It''s just that people here haven''t really caught on yet. Actually, lots of young girls wear wigs now. Don''t let it get to your head."


    I looked at her a little anxiously, my eyes beginning to sting. They wore wigs for beauty. I had no choice. It wasn''t the same.


    She seemed to sense my sadness and gently asked, "Chemo, huh? Yeah... me too. Don''t worry, okay?"


    I stared at her in shock. Her face was glowing, and she even looked a bit chubby, nothing like someone going through chemotherapy.


    She pinched her cheek. "I know, right? A bit plump? Gotta eat more! With this kind of illness, it''s easy to lose weight like you." She added, "But don''t worry, your hair will grow back a few months after chemo. Happened to mest time. After two or three months, it starteding in again."


    I looked at her in disbelief. She was just like me.


    Except back then, I had only been on medication abroad, no chemo involved.


    She patted my shoulder. "Second rpse. Yeah. But hey, I''m still alive six yearster. That''s a win. You have to believe in medicine, work hard, and focus on staying alive, right?"


    Looking into her eyes full of hope, I choked up and nodded. "I''ve rpsed a second time too."


    She smiled. "Then it''s fate! I''ll give you 20% off! And a free haircut too?" She nced at the top of my head. I knew she had noticed the thinning hair.


    I looked around the shop hesitantly, unsure where the haircut would happen.


    But she pulled out a buzzer from behind the counter. ¡°No big technique involved. When ites to shaving heads, I''m a pro."


    She was so yful and humorous that I couldn''t help but smile.


    Still, watching what little hair I had left fall away, I couldn''t hold back my tears.


    Luckily, she worked quickly and had the wig on me in no time. "See? Gorgeous, right? Looks just like your original hair. Honestly, even better!"


    "If you ever get tired of the short hair,e back and try a long one. I''ve got all kinds, different styles, different colors, super pretty." As she spoke, she put on a pink twin-tail wig herself.


    She asked, "Do I look like Harley Quinn? Cool, right?


    Sessfully unlocked!


    I smiled and nodded. My mood had lifted quite a bitter


    But back at the office, I kept worrying that the wig might fall off.


    Thankfully, the owner had picked out just the right size for me. I shook my head a few times to test it, and it stayed


    perfectly in ce. No one at work noticed a thing, which helped me finally rx.


    dant in the project you


    * really should enjoy life more Otherwise there would the no some of firing


    Thes for my freeds a single person was abro


    fool during flha day are


    kage riking dans after ss


    Casey Maned over and whispered to me. Volen bought my design and submitted under his name


    Tension bely included tart of Randy''s Bonus.


    Thysion dramarons aready sandard strut thepany''s mercy.


    panty Randy way Afana few arris, are king out all the contributions held made to thepany


    Cventually he ligned his ancy towada


    He said, "If you weren''t Mrs. Carson, how could you possibly be a director? You were off work for months, and thepany didn''t even fire you. And you still have the face to sit there acting like a boss? Shamelessr


    He added, ¡°Ada, let me tell you something. Don''t think your position is locked in. You''re going down eventually


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 Chapter 68

    Chapter 68 Catching The Adulterer


    "Randy, are you out of your mind?" Casey stood up immediately, trying to push


    him away.


    But Randy refused to back down, still trying to get closer.


    In the end, it took two male colleagues from our department to drag him out, and the dinner ended on a sour note.


    While settling the bill, Casey angrily muttered, "He''s seriously messed up. I don''t think he''s even talked to you more than a few times. What''s his problem?"


    Honestly, I don''t think I''ve exchanged more than ten words with Randy either, so I had no idea he harbored such resentment toward me.


    I heard he graduated from a professional design school and even had a bit of a reputation before he switched jobs.


    But after joining Carson Group, where top talent was everywhere, he quickly lost any edge he once had.


    Everyone here was from elite schools, stacked with awards and honors.


    Even Casey had taken part in major international design projects. Her resume and skills were equally impressive. It was no surprise that Randy felt bitter.


    He clearly had a strong sense of male superiority, and seeing women in leadership positions must''ve been unbearable for him.


    Not to mention, he seemed to get along well with Vivian.


    "Wait. Where''s Dous? I was hoping to catch a ride with him," a female colleague suddenly mumbled.


    That was when Casey and I noticed someone was missing.


    A male coworker said he saw him go to the bathroom, so we didn''t think much of


    it and just took a cab home together. But the next day, chaos hit the design department.


    As soon as I turned on my workputer, I realized it had been infected with a virus. Pop-ups and junk files kept flooding the screen. Even when I tried to close them, nothing worked. Theputer soon froze entirely.


    When I finally rebooted and logged back in, all the data was gone. Even the files for several important projects had vanished.


    And I wasn''t the only one. Other coworkers''puters were also hit by the virus, though to varying degrees.


    I quickly turned on myptop. But as soon as it booted up, it was also flooded with junk emails, and its data was erased. I instinctively forced a shutdown.


    Ellen, looking flustered, asked, "Ada, what do we do? So many files are gone...*


    I was stunned. I had backed up the files, but only on my personalptop.


    Now that bothputers were wiped, I didn''t know what to do.


    The project with Elitara Group was nearly finished. Without the final designs, everything woulde to a halt.


    After thinking it through, I decided to reach out to Dorian to meet up.


    Carson Group''swork had always been secure. They invested heavily in cybersecurity every year. For something like this to suddenly happen in the design department, it reeked of sabotage.


    Before leaving, I instructed the design team to pull up the surveince footage


    and preserve all the data they could. We couldn''t afford to lose any more.


    Everyone was panicking a bit, but thankfully, they were handling things in an organized way.


    When I met with Dorian, I exined what had happened.


    "Should we call the police?" he asked, hesitating.


    Starting a major project with an incident like this definitely wasn''t a good sign.


    Dorian said, "No, I think we should investigate internally first. And also..."


    I responded, "Dorian, you need to leave. Now."


    Pe suddenly burst into the room, startling both of us.


    She grabbed Dorian by the arm and tugged him up. "Go. Take a right outside the


    door and use the staff exit. I''ve already arranged it."


    When he hesitated, she pushed him out. "Go! Don''te back."


    Then she shut the door and sat down in his seat, slipping the documents he had been reading under her.


    Chapter 68 Catching The Adulterer


    Before I could process what was happening, the door mmed open again.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, it''s time for today''s cheating special! I''m here to expose Carson Group''s Mrs. Carson and her dirty secrets!" A shrill voice pierced the room as a woman stood in the doorway, filming us with her phone.


    I recognized her instantly. It was Bethany.


    Her phone pointed at me and Pe, and her whole body froze.


    Bethany asked, "You... both of you? Where''s Mr. Huxley?"


    Pe, annoyed, pushed her phone away. "Who the hell are you? Security? Where''s Security?"


    Clearly not expecting things to turn out this way, Bethany stood stunned, not even stopping her recording.


    Pe didn''t hesitate. She grabbed the cup from the table and sshed it all over her.


    She snapped, "Get out. How dare you stir up trouble in my restaurant? Are you insane?"


    Now I understood why Pe had rushed Dorian out. She had sensed someone was trying to set us up.


    I gave her a grateful nce, but she rolled her eyes at me.


    I said, "Bethany, if you don''t want me to call the police, get out. Stop disturbing our meal. I know you''ve been targeting me for your best friend''s sake, but this is nder, and I will press charges."


    I got up and tried to push Bethany out by the shoulder, but suddenly, she lost it. She shoved me hard.


    She snapped, "No way! I saw Doriane in. You two are definitely cheating! You have an affair while still married! Ada, you''re disgusting!"


    Bethany tore around the room like a madwoman, looking for evidence. Security rushed in and tried to drag her out. But she broke free and grabbed my arm.


    She continued, "No! You came here to meet him. I know it! I''m going to expose you!"


    Her hand gripped my wig just as the security guards pulled her back.


    Suddenly, the whole world went silent. She yanked off my wig.


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 Chapter 69

    Chapter 69 Not Needed


    "Ada, Ada?" Pe was the first to react. She quickly snatched Bethany''s phone and tossed it aside. Then she turned to the security guards and shouted, "What are you waiting for? Get her out! Now!"


    I just kept my head down, clutching it tightly. Tears streamed uncontrobly from my eyes. My worst fear happened. The wig hade off.


    Ever since I started wearing it, I was terrified this day woulde. I didn''t expect to be ripped off, live on camera. I didn''t even want to think about what people online were going to say about me, how they''d look at me.


    Once everyone was out, Pe fumbled to help me put the wig back on, but her hands were shaking and she couldn''t get it right.


    She looked like she was about to cry. I gently took the wig from her hands. "I''ll do it myself."


    Pe stared at me, full of guilt. "I''m sorry. I should''ve stopped her earlier. I just wanted to shut her up, I didn''t think she''d actually..."


    I looked at my reflection in the ss wall of the private room, quickly adjusted the wig.


    I said, "It''s not your fault. You''ve already helped me so much today. Really, thank you. If it weren''t for you, I don''t even know how far that scene could''ve gone, what they might''ve said about me."


    I smiled sincerely at Pe, but that only made her guilt heavier.


    "Ada, is this... some new trend? You actually looked better with long hair." Her voice trailed off as her eyes widened. She gently guided me to sit down.


    Pe asked, "Ada, did you shave your head... or are you sick? That kind of baldness... do you... is it cancer?"


    Her eyes were already brimming with tears. I gave her hand a small squeeze and nodded slowly.


    She got up and began pacing back and forth in the room.


    She continued, "I remember! The year we graduated, you were in the oncology department. My grandma was hospitalized then. I think I saw you there."


    She added, "Then you went to Kasend. Something happened in your family too, right? You didn''t go off with some rich guy, you were sick... weren''t you?"


    I didn''t expect Pe, who always seemed a little ditzy, to be this sharp in such a moment.


    I lowered my head. My silence was already an answer.


    If someone like Pe, who used to dislike me, could piece everything together,


    what about Jude? Would he also start to realize something?


    For some reason, that thought sparked a tiny flicker of hope in me.


    After parting ways with Pe, I returned to the office. Jude came straight to find me.


    His eyes lingered on my hair for a long while before he rasped, "Come to my office."


    We stood on opposite ends of the elevator in silence, not saying a word.


    Back in his office, I saw Vivian, eyes red from crying.


    She said, ¡°Jude, you have to believe me. I swear I didn''t send Bethany. It wasn''t me! She held a grudge because Ada had scolded her before. She just wanted revenge and attention! It''s got nothing to do with me!"


    She cried like a tragic heroine. She had lipstick freshly applied, her body subtly leaning into Jude''s space.


    I sat quietly on the chair,pletely expressionless.


    Suddenly, Jude''s face went cold. "You, get out.¡±


    Vivian muttered, "Jude..."


    Jude repeated, "Get out."


    I could feel Vivian''s rage simmering. Jude had always indulged her. He never spoke to her like this.


    I didn''t understand why he was acting differently now. I didn''t feel like figuring it out anymore.


    Vivian stormed out in frustration. Jude sat downxetarin


    raight of wif Sessfully unlocked!


    He said, "Ada, your hair..."


    Ellen had already told me that the live stream had gone viral. People had taken screenshots of my bald head.


    Strangely, the moment I saw those pictures, I felt at peace. At least I didn''t have to keep worrying about being exposed. And I look pretty good in the pictures.


    Chapter 69 Not Needed


    I''d been eating better, putting on some weight. I didn''t look sick anymore.


    I adjusted my wig and stared at him without much emotion.


    I said, "You brought me up here just to ask about that? If that''s it, I''ll be going."


    He responded, "Ada, what''s going on? You used to love your long hair so much. I don''t get it. Even if you wanted short hair, why shave your whole head?"


    Jude looked genuinely frustrated, stumbling over his words.


    I gave him a faint smile. I didn''t know what to say anymore.


    Pe had figured it out. But Jude, the one who used to know me best, still hadn''t. Was he really still the same man I knew? I''d lost weight, made countless hospital visits, fainted repeatedly, and now I was bald...


    Everything pointed to a single answer. Yet he was still oblivious. Because he didn''t care anymore. That thought brought me an odd kind of relief.


    I said, "Jude, did you forget? You were the one who yanked my hair out. It left a bald spot on top. It looked awful." "So I just shaved it all off. Wigs these days are pretty realistic. You didn''t even notice, right?" I said it lightly, no trace of bitterness. He looked at me suspiciously. "Really? But you used to..."


    I interrupted him. "You said it yourself. That was before. I liked long hair then. I don''t anymore. What''s wrong with that? People change. Tastes change. Isn''t that normal?"


    My words hit him like a p.


    I stood to leave, but he finally spoke. "Ada, I won''t let that reporter show up again.


    I won''t let anyone hurt you. I''ll protect you. You don''t need to worry."


    I didn''t look back. I just waved my hand. "I don''t need it anymore."


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    Chapter 70 The End

 Chapter 70

    Chapter 70 The End


    Back at the office, my colleagues looked at me curiously.


    Ellen walked over with concern, trying her best not to look at my hair. "Ada, are you okay? That reporter was really disgusting."


    I deliberately touched my hair. "Pretty realistic wig, right? Next time I''ll wear pigtails. I''ll look like Harley Quinn."


    Ellen was amused, but she still looked at me worriedly.


    She asked, "Ada, why did you shave your head? You can wear a wig without doing that, right?"


    I repeated what I had just told Jude, and only then did everyone understand.


    After all, someone did notice a bald spot on my head the other day, but no one questioned it at the time.


    When it was time to get off work, Dorian came to pick me up.


    Casey, who had just finished a business meeting outside, also rushed over and gave me a tight hug.


    She said, "Ada, that was so unfair. Is that reporter insane or what? I won''t let her off the hook! If nothing else works, report her to the police. She''s despicable!"


    I patted her on the back, telling her not to get upset.


    Bethany really did seem insane. But behind that madness, she probably got a lot of benefits too.


    I saw her phone today. It was thetest model, over three thousand dors. Her bag and shoes were all luxury brands too,


    If I''m not wrong, those things were likely bought with our shared marital assets.


    Jude apparently left work early today and rushed over too.


    He said, "Ada,e home with me tonight, I..."


    I rejected. "No need."


    I didn''t want to say more, and just got in the car.


    already


    To my surprise, Pe was already in the car, waving at me.


    Now that everyone who knew the truth was gathered, I suddenly felt speechless.


    I had wanted to keep it all a secret, yet in the end, it turned out differently.


    The group chatted noisily about what to eat, and no one mentioned my illness, which made me feel a bit better.


    It wasn''t until we got to the restaurant that things quieted down a little.


    Pe sats from me, staring at me.


    She remarked, "Beauty is justice, right? Even with a shaved head, you still look good. Ada, you''re too much."


    I smiled helplessly. "Still looks better with hair, right?"


    "No big deal. It''ll grow back. Once you''re done with chemo, it''lle back fast." She acted nonchnt, even gave me a big piece of meat.


    She continued, "My rtive in Kasend works on anti-cancer drugs. He said medicine''s advanced now. Cancer isn''t that scary anymore. You''re in good shape. Just eat more. I''ll introduce him to youter."


    She added, "There are so many cancer survivors now, lots of them live to seventy or eighty. You better grow old too, or I''ll feel unfair!"


    She rambled on, and Casey chimed in. I knew they were trying tofort me, in their own way.


    Dorian kept quiet, just silently filling my te.


    Looking at the food piled in my bowl, I quickly covered it. "Seriously, that''s enough. I can''t eat all that."


    "It''s fine! You need to eat more right now." Pe added a chicken to my bowl. "High-quality protein. Eat up." Pe added a chicken leg to my bowl. "High- quality protein. Eat up.¡±


    "By the way, I''m not introducing you to a doctor for free." She had this scheming look on her face. I shrugged. I said, "I have no money, and I might not even live that long."


    Sessfully unlocked!


    estaurant chain is getting a full renovation, Vack."


    She and Casey rolled their eyes in perfect sync th and we''re building a new five- story location. You She added, "Lowest price. Give me the Carson Group discount. That jerk is not getting a cent of my money."


    I smiled and agreed. Pe''s projects weren''t easy tond. I knew she was doing it to support my work.


    After dinner, we left the restaurantughing, only to see Jude standing at the door. The four of us tacitly pretended not to


    Chapter 70 The End


    see him, but he still called out to me.


    He said, ¡°Ada, let''s go home together."


    "No, I''m going back with Casey," I replied without much emotion.


    I thought he''d insist, try to pull me away like before, but this time he didn''t.


    "Then... wait a sec. I''ve got something for you." He quickly opened the trunk and pulled out severalrge gift boxes. He said, ¡°You''re too skinny. I think you need some nutrition right now. These are supplements and something for hair growth. You love looking good. Eat more, take care of yourself. Health is the most important thing."


    Everyone''s eyes turned to me, and I took the boxes without expression.


    They were supplements, and yes, I needed them.


    Since we weren''t divorced yet, I didn''t even feel guilty taking them. As long as he didn''t try to give me a ring, anything else was fine.


    Compared to one of Vivian''s handbags, these were nothing.


    Seeing me ept the boxes, Jude let out a sigh of relief and awkwardly said,"If


    you ever have time,e home. I can pick you up anytime."


    I said nothing, just got in the car with Casey.


    This time, I didn''t look at him in the rearview mirror. Some decisions, once made, didn''t need to be revisited.


    Our rtionship ending here might not be a bad thing after all.


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 Chapter 71

    Chapter 71 Evidence


    The next day, Pe really dide to Garson Group, But she insisted that had to be in charge of se wouldn''t cooperate.


    I held a meeting and brought Casey with me to the conference room


    When Pe saw the two of us, her expression softened a bit, But then she got angry an


    She asked, "Ada, can you deal with Vivian? She''s seriously annoying Does Jute as through he ten


    That was when I found out. Apparently Vivian had just tried to suck up to Paris, only to get soaked nesest Unexpectedly, Vivian had burst into tears and even tried to use Pe


    I remarked, "Jude must be sick in the head! Why the hell did I ever like him back the tale


    Pe asked, "Were you? Why did you like him?¡±


    "Because he really was outstanding back then, and he was handsome I replied nkly


    Pe was genuinely at a loss for words because everything I said was true,


    Back then, Jude was dazzling, cheerful, and full of life. Wherever he went, he brought energy and sighness Buttow


    I took out the documents. "This time, Casey will be the lead. I''ll assist with the design


    Pe looked like she wanted to protest, but after ncing at Casey, she kept quiet.


    I exined, "Pe, I''m not trying to get out of it. I didn''t say anything at dinner yesterday, but actually the proetes working on with Dorian had its data deleted. It caused a major problem. I really don''t have the energy fight for


    Besides, I''d be gone soon anyway. I needed to help Casey establish herself


    Pe didn''t make things difficult. Our meeting went smoothly, and in the end, we signed the contrad


    When I got back to the office, I started investigating the deleted data incident.


    Many people in the design department had theirputers infected with a virus. It had already been checked. The vins had originated from myputer and then spread through the internalwork to others.


    Since myputer contained the most important files, the losses were substantial


    Other documents aside, the project with Elitara Group couldn''t afford any dys.


    I went straight to the Security Department to request the surveince footage.


    The person in charge looked troubled. "Mrs. Carson, I''m really sorry. The system was upgraded at the time, and a lot of videos were deleted."


    "An upgrade? Why at night?" I already had a bad feeling.


    Sure enough, the staff told me that Vivian had brought people over, iming it was at Jude''s request.


    Everyone knew about her rtionship with Jude, so no one questioned it and allowed the staff to proceed with the upgrade.


    I checked the system. It had indeed been upgraded to thetest version. Several days of footage were deleted and couldnt be recovered.


    I returned to my office feeling discouraged, thinking this incident might never be solved. I did have a few suspects. Dous s sudden disappearance that day was suspicious.


    But Randy was also on good terms with Vivian. Maybe he provoked me on purpose so someone else could take advantage. But I had seen him drinking that night, white wine and beer mixed. With that much alcohol, staying sober would''ve been nearly impossible.


    As I was going over everything in my head, Mahir Weiss from Design Department One knocked timidly on my door I responded, "Come in."


    Mahir pleaded, "Ada, I want to confess something. Please don''t be mad, okay? Dock my pay if you have to, b fire me."


    His guilty expression immediately raised all kinds of rms in my head.


    ase don''t


    But Mahir had always been diligent, only asionally cking off a bit. He was young and a bit flighty, but nothing more


    serious.


    Sessfully unlocked!


    I gave him a slight nod. "Go on. Be honest, and vil go easy on 0


    He sent me a video file, then exined, "Ada, I''m really sorry. I was upgrading a game and had left it on auto-mode. "Somehow, the live-stream function got turned on, but don''t worry, Myptop was in the hallway, definitely not inside the office."


    Chapter 71 Evidence


    I watched the footage. The angle was indeed from a hallway window, and it showed someone entering the office that night. Judging by the height and build, it was a man.


    But the angle was too low, and the person''s face couldn''t be seen clearly.


    Mahir kept apologizing, swearing he never brought theptop into the office and insisting he didn''t spread the virus.


    1 sighed. "If only it had been in the office. We might''ve seen who it was."


    Mahir nodded silently, watching me cautiously.


    Suddenly, a thought struck me. "Mahir, if you want to redeem yourself, help me with something."


    Soon, word spread that Mahir had forgotten to turn off hisptop and webcam that day.


    "Just have the tech team enhance the footage. We''ll definitely find that person." Mahir said loudly, proud like he was earning a gold star.


    I figured everything was on track, so I walked over.


    I said, "Just give me the original file. I''ll go find Jude and ask him to have


    someone enhance the video."


    1 exchanged a nce with Mahir, then took the USB drive he had prepared and left the office.


    But my luck really ran out today. The elevator was under maintenance.


    Fortunately, Jude''s office was only three floors up, so I turned into the stairwell.


    Just as I was about to exit the stairwell, hurried footsteps came from behind. I


    started to turn around. Then something


    struck the back of my head hard, and once again, I cked out.


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 Chapter 72

    Chapter 72 Confession


    Chapter 72 Confession


    I hadn''t fully regained consciousness yet, but the familiar scent told me I was back


    in the hospital. It was probably even the


    same room


    I moved my hand slightly and slowly opened my eyes. Jude rushed over immediately.


    He asked, ¡°Ada, how are you feeling? Are you in any difort?"


    His eyes were full of concern, so much like how he was back in college.


    He said, "You have low blood sugar? Why don''t you carry candy with you? Didn''t you open the package I gave you? There''s a box of choctes inside, perfect for carrying around.


    Jude unwrapped a piece of chocte and ced it in my mouth. Then he picked up a water bottle to feed me, but I took it from him and set it aside.


    When the doctor walked in, he looked at me with a pained expression. "Mrs. Carson, didn''t I say..."


    I quickly responded, "Doctor, I''m sorry. I should''ve listened and kept candy with me."


    The doctor nced at Jude but didn''t say anything more.


    He knew I didn''t want others to know about my condition, so naturally, he wouldn''t reveal my privacy.


    Jude panicked. "Doctor, is hypoglycemia really that serious? She could faint just like that?"


    I replied, ¡°I didn''t faint. Someone hit me."


    Not wanting Judeto keep pestering the doctor, I quickly changed the subject to what had happened today. Originally, I thought that once Jude got the video, Vivian would make a move.


    I hadn''t expected her to strike first. Clearly, my luck wasn''t improving.


    I reached back to touch the lump on my head and took off my wig. There was a noticeable bump there.


    "I got hit here. It''s best to call the police. I suspect someone intentionally nted a virus on myputer and stole my


    video evidence." I briefly exined what had happened, and Jude''s brow furrowed tightly.


    "I''ll call the police right away. Don''t worry. I won''t let anyone hurt you." He sounded so resolute, but I didn''t even feel like smiling.


    I got attacked inside Carson Group, and he hadn''t even noticed I''d been knocked


    out. How exactly was he going to protect me?


    Before he could call the police, his phone rang.


    After hearing the other end, Jude stood up quickly.


    He eximed, "Randy turned himself in? He was the one who hit Ada? Where is


    he now? Has he confessed to everything?" "Okay, I''ming to the station right away!" He hung up, and I was already out of bed, putting on my shoes.


    I said, Let''s go. I''m the victim here. We should settle this together."


    Jude didn''t want me to go, insisting I stay at the hospital. But I was just as insistent.


    I said, "Myputer had data rted to multiple engineering projects. I have to go. What if he has a backup?"


    Seeing how determined I was, Jude finally agreed toe with me.


    The fact that Randy was behind this felt strange to me.


    But all I could think about was that he might''ve copied my project materials, and if


    so, the project timeline could still be saved.


    When we got to the police station, Randy really had confessed to everything.


    Not only did he admit to intentionally nting the virus on the design department''sputers, he also confessed that he''d hit me out of guilt.


    An officer said, "Mrs. Carson, the forensic doctor will examine your injuriester. You can file forpensation as well.


    "He''s involved in stealing trade secrets and intentional assault. The court will determine the sentence."


    The police took my statement and summarized the situation.


    I asked to see Randy, but he refused.


    The officer replied, "He said he couldn''t stand the thought of a woman bing a director and held a grudge against you for being in charge of such a major project."


    He added, "He doesn''t want to see you, or anyone from thepany. I suggest you get awyer and start thepensation process."


    Chapter 72 Confession


    Randy was just a designer. There was no way he could afford the full damages for this project. Jail time was inevitable. But I couldn''t shake the feeling that he wasn''t working alone.


    I asked, "Officer, that night he was drinking with us andpletely wasted. How could he have gone back to the office?"


    The officer looked at the report. "He said he faked being drunk. In the business world, some people can hold their liquor. Maybe you didn''t notice. He went home first, then snuck back to the office, figuring no one would suspect him." "Then why turn himself in?" That was the part I found most suspicious.


    There was no direct evidence against him. He even had witnesses who could vouch that he never returned to the office, so why confess?


    The officer exined, "He thought he might''ve killed you. If the boss''s wife dies,


    he figured it''d mean the death penalty, so he decided it was better to turn himself


    in."


    That exnation seemed usible, but I couldn''t shake the feeling that


    something didn''t add up.


    When I finished giving my statement, Jude rushed over.


    He asked, "You okay? Does your head still hurt?¡±


    I shook my head and whispered, "Something feels off. I think Randy had help."


    Jude frowned. "You sure? Any proof?"


    I thought for a moment, then said, "He really seemed drunk that night. Everyone saw it. The timing just doesn''t fit. And that night, Vivian..."


    Before I could finish, Vivian came rushing in. "Jude! Jude, are you okay? I heard something happened at thepany." Her hand was wrapped in a bandage. No wonder she wasn''t at the office today.


    I was about to speak, but she quickly stepped between us.


    Then she looked down in shock at her arm, eyes filling with tears as she clutched


    Jude''s sleeve. ¡°Jude... my wound reopened... Jude..."


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    Chapter 73 Under Her Wing


    Chapter 73 Under Her Wing


    Vivian actually looked quite pitiful. Her face was pale, she looked exhausted, and there was still blood on her arm.


    I didn''t know how she got injured, but with this tear-streaked, fragile appearance,


    I figured even Jude would find it hard to


    say no.


    Itook a step back, silently giving the two of them some space.


    Jude nced at me, then coldly said to her, "I''ll have the driver take you to the hospital."


    Vivian refused. ¡°Jude, no, I want you to go with me. I''m scared."


    She nestled into Jude''s arms, looking helpless. The way she moved was smooth and natural. This wasn''t the first time they d held each other like that.


    Tears streamed down Vivian''s face like they were free. A crowd had already gathered to watch the drama, and eventually, Jude caved


    He said, "Ada, I''ll go with her to the hospital."


    I nodded, not wanting to say anything more.


    As I watched the two of them leave, the young policewoman I''d seen earlier poked her head out again.


    She said, "Mrs. Carson, you''re really... emotionally stable."


    I smiled and shook my head. I had always been calm. I''ve gotten used to it over the years.


    Since I saw someone I knew, I immediately grabbed her.


    "Officer, I don''t think Randy acted alone. There''s something off about this whole thing." I exined my suspicions again. The young officer looked a bit troubled.


    She exined, "To be honest, the case is already closed. On the surface, the evidence forms a closed loop, and there are multiple confirmations. Unless Randy changes his statement."


    She added, "And honestly, with such a serious crime, it''s unlikely he''d take the fall all on his own. But if you find other evidence, you can submit it to us."


    Ishook my head, feeling a bit frustrated.


    There were no real coincidences in this world. Most so-called coincidences were just the result of someone''s maniption. But I couldn''t see Randy, so I couldn''t ask anything.


    Instead of going home, I went straight to find Dorian. I couldn''t afford to drop the Elitara Group''s project or dy it. I knew any dy would cause him significant losses.


    When I arrived at Elitara Group, Dorian was still in a meeting, so I had to wait in his office.


    His office was quite simple. There were no luxurious decorations, just in and efficient. Very much like him.


    I couldn''t help but think back to our college days. Even when Dorian was chasing me, he never gave me any shy gifts like a typical rich guy.


    He''d rece flowers with giant bags of snacks and have them split between my roommates so they could carry them upstairs for me. He said it was for my convenience.


    Back then, Kacie Castillo was one of his biggest fans.


    Hepiled and emailed the final exam prep materials to our dorm.


    When we graduated, he was overseas. Yet, he still sent gifts to every girl in our


    room.


    Just as I was lost in those memories, Dorian pushed open the door and walked in. He asked, "Sorry, things have been busytely. Have you been waiting a while?"


    I shook my head and exined everything that had happened.


    Randy hadn''t copied the data, which meant the previous design ns and data had to be redone from scratch.


    I said, "Dorian, I can reconstruct some of it from memory, but a lot of the detailed work will require team coboration."


    I was indeed the chief designer, but the Elitara Group team had contributed a lot


    too. I wasn''t familiar with all the tiny details.


    Dorian looked at me and asked, "You didn''t get


    Sessfully unlocked!


    cussion?"


    That was when I remembered I''d been hit. I was still a little dizzy, but I knew the work was important.


    Seeing the state I was in, he pulled me out the door without another word.


    He said, "Let''s go get you checked out at the hospital. We''ll talk work after that." Chapter 73 Under Her Wing


    Fortunately, it turned out to be just some minor surface injuries. There was no major damage to my brain. Whoever hit me hadn''t been trying to kill.


    Dorian finally breathed a sigh of relief, then brought the topic back to work.


    He said, "Maybe someone else in yourpany can take over. I''m worried about your health."


    I immediately shook my head and insisted I could handle it.


    As the project lead, if someone else stepped in, they''d need time to get up to speed, which would dy things even more.


    He clearly realized that too. "If we do overtime, how long do you think it''ll take to finish?"


    I replied, ¡°With team support, or if Casey helps out, we can get it done in a week, including final calctions. But Casey''s pretty busy too."


    She was juggling multiple projects, including a restaurant design for the Sidel family. She couldn''t spare the time. Dorian looked at me and said, "Then I''ll do it."


    "You?" I stared at him in surprise, then it hit me. We were in the same major back in college.


    He responded, "Yeah, I''m your senior, remember? I might be a little rusty, though. Will you take me under your wing?"


    He blinked yfully at me, and I couldn''t help but smile.


    Dorian was indeed very capable. He was a standout back in school.


    To speed up progress, I went straight to Elitara Group''s design department to


    work overtime. That way, Dorian could jump in anytime to help. We ended up workingte into the night.


    4


    Ironically, theter it got, the more awake I felt.


    Dorian nced at the time. "Ada, go home. It''s toote. You need to take care of yourself."


    I replied, "Just a sec. I''m almost done with this section."


    I kept my eyes on the screen when suddenly, someone grabbed my hand.


    Jude''s unhappy voice rang out. "What? nning to switch to Elitara Group? Working this hard?"


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 Chapter 74

    Chapter 74 True Colors


    Jude looked awful, like he was suppressing something.


    I pulled my hand away and rubbed my wrist.


    "Don''t make a scene. You know about Randy, and the Elitara Group project can''t be dyed. If we don''t work overtime now, you can pay Elitara Group''s breach penalty if you want."


    I believed that no matter how upset he was, he wouldn''t risk dying work.


    After all, the penalty would be at least millions of dors. Nopany would ept that unless absolutely necessary.


    As expected, he didn''t say anything more, just mumbled under his breath, "Well, you could''ve just worked at Carson Group instead. Isn''t that big office enough for you?"


    I said, "I''m afraid something might go wrong again. What if all my efforts are destroyed once more?"


    I stared at him, already determined to investigate everything thoroughly.


    Otherwise, Casey might be held back in thepany too.


    "What do you mean? Isn''t Randy already arrested?" Jude didn''t understand.


    I shook my head. "Randy is just a scapegoat. I don''t know exactly why he''s taking the fall, but it''s definitely not just because he hates me."


    I continued, "That night, Vivian went to the security department under your name and deleted all the footage. She also updated the monitoring system, so we have no clue who entered the office."


    I added, "But I''m certain Randy was drunk out of his mind. The alcohol level was so high. Even a cow would''ve copsed, let alone a person.


    "And the designs Vivian before were all under Randy''s name, which makes me suspect her."


    I''d wanted to say this earlier at the police station, but Vivian had interrupted me. Even if she was dumb, she probably bribed the security staff. But Jude was still the boss. Those people might not listen to


    Vivian.


    I still believed Jude was a rational person. Maybe he''d investigate.


    This involved Carson Group''s reputation. If word got out, no one would want to coborate with them.


    But Jude immediately denied it. "No, she was with me at that time, at.....¡±


    He suddenly realized something was off and didn''t finish the sentence.


    I instantly understood. They must be doing something together thatte at night.


    Worried I''d be upset, he tried to exin, "Vivian really couldn''t have gone to the design department that day. And she..."


    I replied, "It''s fine. I know you believe her. I''ll investigate on my own."


    Honestly, I''d already expected this. I wasn''t too disappointed.


    I just wanted to warn him and clear my own name. If things blew up, I wasn''t going to take the me.


    Jude tried to step forward, but I stood up. "Enough. There''s no point. Shall we call it a night?"


    I didn''t want to argue about Vivian anymore. Jude had been with many women, but Vivian was clearly different for him. She was arrogant, clueless, a bully, and vain. But he still liked her.


    It reminded me of something Pe once said. Why did I ever fall for him? Was I blind?


    When I tried to leave, Jude grabbed my hand again, eyes filled with anger.


    He said, "Ada, stop changing the subject. I think you''re just doing this to be with Dorian! If it weren''t for him, would you have messed up the Bright Group projectst time?"


    I couldn''t break free from his grip. Before Dorian could step in, I directly kicked him.


    It was a low move but definitely effective. Jude stepped back immediately and let


    go of my hand.


    I warned, "Stop pestering me. It''s disgusting."


    I didn''t look at him again and followed Dorian straight to the elevator.


    On the way down, I nced at the hotels around thepany and decided I''d stay nearby, so I wouldn''t disrupt Casey. Dorian seemed to guess what I was thinking and brought me to the nearest hotel.


    He said, "There are a few rooms here that thepany always keeps for clients. You can stay temporarily. It''ll be more convenient."


    Chapter 74 True Colors


    I didn''t think much of it and went upstairs right away.


    Dorian didn''te with me to the room, but the fact that we went to a hotel together blew up the next day.


    I never expected Bethany to be that bold.


    After being detained for seven days over thest incident, she came out and started stalking me again. She took photos of me and Dorian entering the hotel.


    I''figured she knew Dorian would leave soon, so she seized the chance to smear


    me.


    And this time, she really went crazy. Not only did she post photos of me and Dorian, but also of Jude and Vivian.


    She used all therom Jude taking care of Vivian at the hospital to group photos from her social media,


    Her post outright imed that Jude and I were both ying the field, listing all the women Jude had been with.


    Of course, she didn''t forget to add that Vivian was Jude''s "true love."


    Being a journalist, she clearly had her ways. She dug up a lot.


    Plenty of women looking for clout came forward, iming they''d been with Jude years ago,


    Looking at all the stic surgery faces online, I honestly couldn''t even remember if I''d ever seen these women before.


    Though Bethany''s post was quickly deleted, she reposted the same content in


    several ces. And the inte never forgot. Major tforms started re-sharing


    it.


    This time, the Carson family''s reputation really took a hit.


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 Chapter 75

    Chapter 75 Request


    I wasn''t too bothered by the situation. I figured it was the Carson family who should be panicking.


    Jude''s scandal would definitely affect the stock price. When that happens, the Carson family will suffer heavy losses.


    After all, my family was already gone. There was no one left for me to worry about but myself.


    But the moment I stepped out of the hotel that morning, several men blocked my path. "Mrs. Carson, Mr. Ewan Carson requests you return home."


    I recognized the man in front. He was the head of Ewan''s security team. Clearly, Ewan had heard about the incident too.


    Ever sincest time, he had been particrly sensitive to public opinion online.


    I got in the car and sent a message to Dorian, letting him know I wouldn''t be going to work today.


    I also sent a message to Jude. This wasn''t my fault. If anyone should face punishment, it should be him.


    When I arrived, Ewan looked like he''d just taken heart medication. He didn''t seem in good shape.


    "Ada! Look at the mess you''ve made!" Mireille stormed over like she was about to hit me. I stepped aside, and she almost stumbled.


    Mireille asked, "You dare dodge me?"


    "If I didn''t, it''d be intentional injury. You''d end up in jail." I looked at her emotionlessly.


    Anyone watching might think she really cared about Jude. But in truth, she just never liked me.


    Juno stepped in to stop her and looked at me with some hesitation. "Ada, could this be a misunderstanding? How could you go to a hotel with that Huxley family''s boy..."


    She couldn''t even bring herself to say the words "get a room."


    I looked over at the angry Ewan. "There''s nothing between us. He just lent me a corporate suite for the night. He left the hotel immediately. There''s surveince footage. You can check it."


    There were 24/7 businesses all around that hotel. It wouldn''t be hard to get the footage. It wouldn''t be hard to clear my name. Clearing Jude''s name, on the other hand, would be much harder.


    Mireille, still humiliated from earlier, jumped back in. "We''re just supposed to believe your im? Surveince means nothing. Everyone already thinks you''re a promiscuous woman!"


    She continued, "I knew it. You two have been married for so long, and still no kids? So you just didn''t want to have Jude''s child? Has Jude ever wronged you? When your family got into that ident while you were abroad, he nearly..."


    I interrupted. ¡°That''s my business. Not yours toment on!"


    Jude rushed in and quickly pulled me behind him. But I kept my gaze fixed on that woman. My mom never told me anything about what happened back then. So what exactly did Jude do for me?


    I wanted to ask, but I knew this wasn''t the time.


    Jude turned to Ewan and exined, "Grandpa, I went to see Ada that night too. There''s nothing between her and Dorian." Ewan asked, "I know exactly what kind


    of person Ada is. But what about you? What''s going on with Vivian?"


    Ewan gripped his cane and tried to stand. Bodhi hurried to support him.


    He said, "Uncle Ewan, it''s normal for men to fool around a bit outside."


    He looked at Jude with clear schadenfreude in his eyes.


    He added, "But if it affects thepany, that''s a different story. Especially since all the past scandals are being dug up again!"


    Mireille seemed to finally realize why she was here and immediately chimed in.


    She said, "Ewan, this situation is serious. Several shareholders have been asking what''s going on. We didn''t even know what to tell them! If the shareholders get riled up, Carson Group is in real trouble."


    Ewan mmed his cane on the floor a few times, furious. "Enough! Shut up!"


    He snapped, "Jude, I''m warning you. You have three days to fix this! And the two of you need to start having a child immediately. With a child, the rumors will die down."


    He brought up the baby thing again and shot me a stern re. I quickly lowered my head. I didn''t want to talk about it. There was actually another solution, but one no one had said aloud.


    Jude could divorce me and marry Vivian, proving that he truly loved a girl from an ordinary background. That way, people would think I was just a fleeting part of his past.


    Chapter 75 Request


    A devoted CEO falling for a humble girl. That was the kind of fairytaleizens at up. And woth so they se out there, they''d love a happy ending they could project themselves into


    After another round of scolding, Jude finally took me home


    On the way, I remembered what Mireille said and cautiously asked, "Jude, Mirette said about her dad had the wedd


    You looked info it?"


    "Yeah. It really was an ident." He nodded without emotion, clearly not wanting to say more


    It didn''t sit right with me, and I wanted to press further, but he changed the subjed Jude said, "You don''t have to worry. I''ll take care of this. Just y along for now. As for Vivian


    handle her too


    I looked at him in surprise. This was the first time he said he''d deal with a woman around farm. He never let me interfere before.


    He didn''t look at me, but reached out his right hand and held mine. "I know you still have your doubts. But we''re not in a rush. We can talk about having a kidter."


    The car pulled into the underground parking lot, and he gave me a soft look.


    I pulled my hand away immediately. "Jude, I''m never going to..."


    "Let''s go home.¡± He got out quickly, heading to the elevator without looking back.


    Subscribed

 Chapter 76

    Chapter 76 Bad News


    Back home, Jude went straight to the guest room without giving me a chance to speak. I knew this meant he didn''t want to talk about it anymore.


    He had always been like this in school. Whenever something came up that he didn''t want to talk about, he''d first process it alone, thene back with a solution.


    I''ve never liked his silent treatment. But at most, he''d only give me such treatment


    a night.


    I didn''t bother with him. Since we were home anyway, I packed some clothes and decided to stay at a hotel for a few days. At least until I wrapped up the Elitara Group case.


    I didn''t expect just as Jude drove me to the office the next day, the police showed


    up.


    "Mrs. Ada Carson, we need you toe with us to assist in an investigation regarding the disappearance of Bethany." The officer spoke with a nk expression. I stared at him in shock.


    "Bethany is missing?" I clearly saw what looked like her ount still posting smear campaigns against me yesterday. Yet, she went missing today.


    The officer nodded. "Her family already reported it. She''s been missing for 48 hours with no contact at all."


    "What does that have to do with my wife? She has an alibi for the entire 48 hours." Jude shielded me tightly behind him, not letting the officers get any closer.


    The police officer looked at him seriously. "Mr. Carson, your wife is a key suspect. We ask for your cooperation."


    Jude still wanted to argue, but more and more colleagues had gathered to watch. I quickly tapped his arm.


    I said, ¡°The officer said it''s just an investigation. I''ll go with them. Tell everyone to get back to work. It''s fine."


    Jude didn''t want to let go, but I gave him a look, and he reluctantly released me.


    "I''ll go with you..." Before he could finish, Veronica rushed over. "Mr. Carson, there''s something urgent you need to deal with right now."


    She looked flustered, and when she saw the police taking me, her eyes filled with fear.


    Inudged Jude. "This is important. Go. I''ll be fine, I''lle find you once it''s done."


    Only then did Jude hurry away with Veronica, and I followed the police officer to the police station.


    Once they stated the time of Bethany''s disappearance, I provided a corresponding alibi.


    I said, "Officers, this really has nothing to do with me. I''ve been working non-stop recently. And there''s nothing worth ckmailing her for."


    Bethany was the one trying to extort money from Vivian, so she obviously wasn''t rich enough for someone to kidnap her.


    The officer frowned, then pulled out a photo and asked me to identify it. "Do you know this person?"


    I looked closely, shook my head, then hesitated and nodded. "I think I''ve seen him somewhere, but I can''t recall exactly."


    "Good. This is the person who kidnapped Bethany! You hired him. Now tell us where she is!" The officer suddenly raised his voice. But I was even more confused.


    I had seen the man before. But I really couldn''t ce when or where. And what did he have to do with Bethany?


    I said, "I''m sorry. I don''t know him. You should investigate him instead. Maybe he held a grudge against her or got paid by someone else?"


    At that point, I knew I had to tell the truth. I genuinely didn''t know the guy.


    The police tried to pressure me further, but I started analyzing the situation logically.


    Bethany might appear to have a grudge against me and Jude, but all her posts were fake. I''d be cleared soon.


    She kept targeting me. If I sued her, she''d definitely end up in jail. So why would I go to the trouble of kidnapping her?


    Of course, the police had thought of that too, but they imed to have hard evidence.


    The officer said, "Ada, stop ying games. We have proof! This man met you several times at yourpany''s caf¨¦ and at a hotel. You even gave him money."


    "Impossible." I denied it tly. I barely had enough money myself. Jebutant give someone else my money.


    Sessfully unlocked!


    Then the officer pulled out an evidence bag. I instantly recognized wh


    inside. "You recognize these?"


    The officer''s tone turned even more serious. "We''ve confirmed that these are all pieces of jewelry either bought for you by Jude or ones you bought yourself."


    "You didn''t give him cash, but he pawned off these items for 100 thousand dors. And you still want to say you knew


    Chapter 76 Bad News nothing?"


    The police officer''s question made meugh.


    I replied, "Officer, I don''t think you understand how things work in my household. Even if I wanted to use that powdry s needed my husband''s permission. Only his secretary could open the sate for me


    I added, "And ever since I reported Jude and his mistress harassing me, I haven''t even lived at home. Yes, we kary yesterday, but these pieces obviously weren''t handed over yesterday or today, were they?


    The two officers nced at each other. One of them immediately left, probably toy that.


    I remembered how Vivian had once taken my jewelry from the house. I had a feeling she might have something to do with this after all.


    When Leonard arrived, Jude didn''te with him.


    Leonard said, "Mrs. Carson, don''t worry. They don''t have enough evidence. The worst they can do is told you for 24 hours I''ll work on getting you out."


    "Where''s Jude?" I couldn''t stop thinking about the expression on Veronica''s face earlier. Something for wrong.


    I couldn''t stop thinking about the expression on Veronica''s face earlier. Something felt wrong


    Leonard cleared his throat and finally said, "There was a major supply issue at the construction site. Someone dies


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 Chapter 77

    Chapter 77 ident


    Leonard acted swiftly. After all, the police didn''t have any solid evidence, so I was released quickly.


    Even so, night had already fallen. Several hours had passed, and I had no idea what was happening with Jude,


    I asked, ¡°What exactly happened at the construction site? Which supplier''s materials were faulty?


    I''was familiar with most of the vendors. Many had worked with Ewan for years. It was hard to believe such a major incident could ur.


    And Carson Group had always had safety supervisors on site. Thepany was known for its safety and rapid project turnover,


    If something went wrong and wasn''t handled properly, thepany''s reputation would copse in an instant. Leonard shook his head. "Mr. Carson asked me to assist you first. He has other colleagues on his end. I haven''t had a chance to contact him yet."


    He added, "It''s not just one site. Several construction projects found defective materials. Tonight, a worker at the downtown site fell to his death during overtime. It happened on the spot. Several workers even filmed it. There''s no way to cover this up."


    He sighed. "Public opinion is turning against us fast, and the PR department is under enormous pressure...


    Leonard was a veteran of thepany, and the tense look on his face made it clear, Carson Group was in serious trouble.


    Whenever a fatality ured on site, the whole project was affected. It was not just aboutpensation anymore. Jude had always been sharp and aggressive in the business world, making plenty of enemies along the way. It was only a matter of time before someone took advantage of this.


    I said, "Let''s go back to thepany. I need to check some documents. You go deal with the victim''s family. I''ll grab a tax on my own."


    Leonard dropped me off by the roadside, and I hurried straight to the office.


    There were definitely files that needed immediate inspection. If someone exploited the chaos, recovering from it would be nearly impossible.


    My right eyelid had been twitching all day, a superstition I picked up after falling ill.


    I had a bad feeling that something was about to happen.


    I just didn''t expect that as soon as I reached the office, I''d see a shadowy figure


    sneaking around inside, rummaging through things in the dark, without even turning on the lights.


    "Who''s there?" Instinctively, I grabbed the broom near the door and dialed the security office with my phone.


    The moment the lights flicked on, I raised the broom. I was ready to strike, only to see Vivian.


    There was a flicker of panic in her eyes, but the moment she saw it was me, she quicklyposed herself.


    She snapped, "What the hell? You scared me! Jude told me toe get some documents."


    She was holding a bunch of papers in her hands and immediately tried to hide them behind her back.


    "He told me toe. What are you doing? Thepany''s already in a crisis. Do you want to make it worse?" Her voice was raised, clearly trying to cover her guilt with volume.


    I stood in the doorway, blocking her from leaving.


    I questioned, "If he sent you, why didn''t you turn on the lights? What would you


    need from the marketing department? And how did you get the keys?"


    On my way up, I''d remembered that one batch of the faulty materials hade from the Miller family''s factory. And now, here she was.


    Vivian waved the keys in front of me. "Jude gave them to me."


    I recognized the keychain. It was Jude''s. Only his ID card granted ess to all offices. But that only made me more suspicious.


    "You don''t believe me? Call him. He''ll vouch for me." She really didn''t seem guilty anymore and even dialed his number herself. Unfortunately, he didn''t answer.


    I tried calling as well, but still no response.


    Sessfully unlocked!


    Irritated, Vivian shoved past me. "These documents are needed immediately. Don''t you know someone just died at the construction site? Don''t waste my time!"


    Still, I refused to move. My gut told me that if I let her leave with those files, something much worse would happen.


    1ƒÒ


    Chapter 77 ident


    But I was just a sick, frail woman. I couldn''t stop someone like her. On the other hand, Vivian was spoiled and used to being protected.


    Before long, she pushed past me and got out.


    "Mrs. Carson, is something wrong?" The security guard had just arrived. I immediately shouted, "Stop her! She''s trying to stealpany documents!"


    The news about the Carson Group''s crisis had already spread like wildfire. Everyone knew about it. The guard immediately stepped forward to block her. Vivian looked furious. "Do you even know who I am? You dare stop me?" The guard hesitated, looking between the two of us.


    I said, ¡°I''m Jude''s legal wife, a shareholder of thepany, and the director of the design department. If anything goes wrong. I''ll take full responsibility!"


    The more forceful Vivian acted, the more nervous I became. This confirmed that I absolutely couldn''t let her go.


    She gave me a venomous re, then suddenly yanked the documents from her folder and flung them into the air. "You want the files? Take them! Let''s see how you exin this to Jude!"


    While the guard helped me pick up the papers, she bolted into the elevator and disappeared.


    Sure enough, they were all rted to projects involving Skydiver Material. It looked like the Miller family''s factory was indeed the source of the faulty materials.


    The guard looked at me nervously. "Mrs. Carson... do you think Mr. Carson will me us?"


    Everyone knew that Vivian was Jude''s favorite. Even I, as his legal wife, couldn''tpare.


    I shook my head and looked at him. "Don''t worry. I won''t let you take the fall."


    I added, "But I want all surveince footage from today, especially anything


    showing Vivian entering or exiting. If even one clip is missing, all of you are fired!"


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 Chapter 78

    Chapter 78 Lost Contact


    While organizing the documents, I kept calling Jude, but eventually his phone was turned off


    A sinking feeling hit me. I asked Veronics, and she said Jude had probbly gone home to get some Mes. So i nished back to the apartment


    Lcalled out, ¡°Jude, are you home? Juder


    The lights were off, and there was no sign that anyone had been around.


    But when I saw footprints in the living room, I was sure Jude hade back.


    I hurried into the bedroom. Jude was lying on the bed, unconscious. No matter how I shook him, he wouldn''t wake up


    I ced my fingers on his wrist to check his pulse. Thankfully, there was still one. Only then did I let out a breath of relief With the crisis at Carson Group, something just didn''t feel right. If something happened to him now, the wholepany could copse.


    I immediately called an ambnce, then contacted the property management.


    I exined, "I''m Jude''s wife. He was attacked in themunity and is unconscious. I want all the surveince footage


    now!


    "The woman he brought home is highly suspicious. If you dare to cover this up, be prepared to go to jail with her


    This was the first time I ever used my status as Mrs. Carson to threaten someone. The person on the other end froze, then quickly apologized and said they''d start pulling the footage right away.


    Honestly, I didn''t know exactly why Jude had passed out, but there was a faint scent of perfume on him. It was very simr to Vivian''s. It was one of my favorite perfumes, and she had been wearing it when I saw her earlier.


    When the medics arrived, I followed them into the ambnce.


    After the doctor examined him, they confirmed that Jude had taken arge amount of sleeping pills.


    The doctor looked at me with concern. "Mrs. Carson, I heard about what''s going


    on with yourpany. It''s possible your husband was overwhelmed..."


    I stopped him. "No. That''s impossible. He''s not that kind of person."


    I firmly denied the doctor''s assumption. Jude was never weak. He had always been a man of responsibility


    If something happened at the construction site, he''d face it, take care of the victim''s family, and get to the bottom of it. I believed he would nevermit suicide.


    The doctor nodded and handed me a consent form.


    He said, "He needs gastricvage right now. There might be other procedures involved. We need your signature."


    My hand trembled slightly as I held the pen. I took a deep breath to steady myself.


    I knew what Jude meant to the Carson family, and I also knew I couldn''t let him die in front of me.


    Aside from our marriage certificate, this was the first time I had ever signed anything as his wife. I subconsciously touched


    the ring finger on my left hand. It was already bare. My heart tightened with a dull ache.


    When Casey called, the building staff had just finished copying the surveince footage for her. Sure enough, the footage showed Vivian entering the apartment with Jude, and an hourter, leaving alone.


    Casey asked, "Ada, do you want to call the police about this? What exactly did you ask me to look for?"


    I replied, ¡°The internal monitor in the jewelry cab. It automatically turns on whenever someone opens it."


    It was originally installed by Veronica to keep an eye on me, but now it might be the key evidence.


    Casey followed my instructions and opened the cab, but the monitor had already been destroyed.


    She said, "This isn''t good. The camera''s broken, and the memory card is missing too."


    That was when I realized a huge problem. I immediately told Casey not to touch the monitor anymore.


    If this was Vivian''s doing, she probably already knew about the hidden camera from her past visits. She could''vee prepared.


    She might''ve even worn gloves to avoid leaving any Angerprints


    Casey asked, "Ada, do you really think Vivian di Sessfully unlocked! She definitely came over."


    If I could think of it, Casey could too. I told her to change the passcode to my apartment immediately and then head home. Meanwhile, Jude had finished the gastricvage, though he still hadn''t regained consciousness.


    The doctor said he might''ve taken other sedatives as well, so he wouldn''t wake up right away, and further testing was


    Chapter 78 Lost Contact


    needed.


    Once they confirmed his vital signs were stable, I finally breathed a sigh of relief. As long as he could wake up, as long as he was alive, everything else could be managed.


    But if he didn''t wake up, no one else could deal with what was happening at the construction site


    The project manager had just called me. The deceased worker''s family had brought reporters and was causing a scene. To my surprise, Aiden had already arrived before I did.


    I watched the livestream from the scene. Aiden was in a sharp suit, hair slicked back with gel, lookingpletely prepared for the spotlight.


    He said, "Ladies and gentlemen, the Carson Group takes this incident very seriously and will handle it appropriately."


    He continued, "The deceased deserves respect, and the family has our deepest condolences. I promise on behalf of Carson Group that this issue will be resolved within three days."


    He added, "If thepany can''t deliver a solution by then, I will personally paypensation to the family out of my own pocket!"


    His words were firm, almost rehearsed, like he had memorized a script.


    Aiden was Bodhi''s son, and someone I''d never liked.


    Jude always thought his older cousin was a decent guy, not someone who yed


    dirty. But clearly, my instincts had been right all along.


    The incident had just happened, and several Carson Group project managers were already on site, so how dare an outsider like Aiden speak on behalf of thepany?


    I put down my phone and looked at Jude, still unconscious.


    I muttered, ¡°Once this is over, you can sleep as long as you want. But for now,


    can you please just wake up?"


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 Chapter 79

    Chapter 79 Leaderless


    The situation at the construction site had temporarily calmed down, and I didn''t have to go there for now. The most important thing was staying by Jude''s side.


    I just didn''t expect Aiden to show up.


    He asked, "What''s going on? It''s just a minor issue. How could Jude attempt suicide over something like this?


    "How do you know it was suicide? What if he was poisoned?" I narrowed my eyes at him.


    This guy clearly came prepared. Rushing over and trying to frame it as a suicide. He was clearly up to no good.


    Soon, Bodhi and Mireille also arrived in a hurry, both of them criticizing me nonstop.


    "Please leave. Jude needs rest right now. Do you want him to wake up or not?" I stood up and gestured toward the door


    I knew with my small frame I couldn''t really stop anyone, but this was a hospital, plenty of eyes watching. Medical staff were moving in and out of the room, so they wouldn''t dare go too far.


    Aiden looked at me with a pained expression. "Ada, I know you''re grieving, but the Carson family business is in chaos right now. We can''t go on without a leader!"


    ¡°So what? Jude is not dead yet, and you want to take the throne?" I shot him a cold look. I caught that sh of cunning in his eyes, even if it was fleeting.


    At this point, they didn''t seem interested in keeping up appearances anymore. Over the past few years, Aiden had been expanding his own influence, always trying to get projects from Jude.


    But every time he tried to get into the Carson Group''s management, Ewan refused.


    Ewan believed family-runpanies were trouble. If too many family members got involved, everything would spiral out of control. Plus, I hadn''t had a child yet, and that always left him uneasy.


    Even blood brothers would turn against each other for money, let alone this bunch.


    Ewan was indeed wise. Now that Jude had just gotten into an ident, these people swarmed in like vultures.


    Mireille stepped forward, ring at me with hatred.


    She said, "If he hadn''t married you, the Carson family would never be in this mess. Now that Jude''s down, are you trying to take control of Carson Group? You''re not even a Carson!"


    Bodhi was also furious. "Exactly! You''re an outsider!"


    I retorted, "But I''m his legal wife, aren''t I?"


    I spoke without much emotion. "Doesn''t matter what myst name is. I''m his wife, his legal guardian, and co-owner of all marital property."


    Bodhi responded, "As long as Jude isn''t dead, you have no right to manage thepany. Isn''t that so?"


    At this point, their intentions were clearly exposed.


    Just as Bodhi was about to step forward, Ewan burst in with his cane and pushed the door open.


    He asked, "What''s all this noise? The doctors said Jude will wake up soon. What are you all doing here?"


    Once Ewan spoke, no one dared say another word. They all lowered their heads and went quiet.


    He looked directly at me. "You heard about what happened at the construction site?"


    I nod


    Even Aiden knew about it. How could I not?


    "Uncle Ewan, we can''t let her take control of Carson Group. She has ulterior motives." Bodhi rushed to speak, looking


    anxious.


    He continued, "Look at my son Aiden. If it weren''t for him, could Ada alone have handled those people at the site? She''d be scared half to death.


    "Aiden just wants to help his cousin. He doesn''t want our family business to fall into someone else''s hands." "Bullshit!" Ewan struck him with his cane without holding back. "Jude isn''t dead! He''ll wake up soon!"


    Ewan continued, "And Ada is his wife. Not only Sessfully unlocked! pany through marriage, she also holds shares.


    Do any of you?"


    This was something Ewan had been cautious about from the beginning. No matter how much they pestered him, he never let them hold shares.


    Ewan dered, "Enough: Even if Jude doesn''t wake up in the next few days, Ada will take full charge. If there''s anything she


    Chapter 79 Leaderless


    doesn''t understand, she cane to me. I haven''t lost my mind yet!"


    With Ewan''s firm stance, the others didn''t dare argue. They slinked out of the hospital room in defeat.


    Once they were gone, Ewan finally looked at me. "So what happened?"


    I didn''t hide anything from him and told him everything. I told him about Vivian''s family factory supplying faulty materials, how she hade to our house, and even stolen materials from thepany.


    Ewan was clearly furious. His chest heaved violently a dozen times before he managed to calm down.


    He asked, "So, what''s your n?"


    I thought for a moment. "First, turn all the evidence over to the police. I''ve already arranged for PR to suppress the online buzz. Then I''ll go visit the family of the deceased. We can''t let this spiral out any further. Tomorrow, I''ll return to thepany and hold a consultation."


    Ewan nodded repeatedly. "Good. I''ll assign Veronica to you. She''s capable. If anythinges up, let me know right away."


    I nodded. Despite Veronica''s dislike for me, she was morepetent than any other assistant.


    After everyone left, I finally felt a bit of relief. Jude hadn''t woken up yet, so I left the room to buy a coffee.


    But I didn''t expect the vending machine on the fourth floor to be out of coffee, so I went up to the fifth.


    Suddenly, I heard amotion at the end of the hallway. When I heard that woman''s voice clearly, my eyes widened. It was Bethany.


    I ran over with my coffee, and just as I got close, I heard a girl scream in agony. It


    was followed by the thud of something heavy hitting the ground.


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 Chapter 80

    Chapter 80 The Murderer


    Chapter 80 The Murderer


    I looked down through the window and saw a long-haired woman falling, with arge pool of blood beside her.


    I nced in the direction she had fallen from, but the ce was already empty.


    Downstairs, the crowd started screaming. I looked again and saw someone pointing up at me, shouting, "The murderer! The murderer is still upstairs!"


    Instinctively, I ducked back. I was just about to run downstairs to see what was going on when I came face to face with the police.


    "Ada Carson, stop! You''re suspected of murdering Bethany. We are officially cing you under arrest! Drop what you''re holding!" Four officers surrounded me. I was so shocked I couldn''t even move.


    A female officer stepped forward, took the coffee from my hand, ced it into an evidence bag, and then handcuffed me.


    I never expected that, just one dayter, I''d be back in the police interrogation room, this time in handcuffs.


    I tried my best to exin that I only heard Bethany''s voice. I didn''t even see her. They could check the surveince footage if they didn''t believe me.


    But one officer scoffed. "The hospital''s surveince system was down for


    upgrades today. You should''ve known that. Your husband was being resuscitated at the time."


    I tried hard to remember, but I really didn''t know anything about that.


    I retorted, "No, I didn''t know. My husband was in critical condition. Why would I


    pay attention to whether the hospital''s cameras were working?"


    The officer snapped, "Ada, stop pretending! We have solid evidence. Even without the footage, we can still prove you killed Bethany! You are the murderer!"


    It was already past midnight, and the hallway had beenpletely empty.


    The fifth floor had very few patients, and the nurses weren''t at the station either. No one could vouch for me.


    The police then presented a phone with a pink case.


    They said, "This is Bethany''s phone. After she was kidnapped, the abductor, Grover Vaughn, used this phone to contact you."


    I retorted, "I don''t know any Grover! I didn''t even have Bethany''s contact info. You can check!"


    Now I was really starting to panic. The evidence seemed toe from nowhere.


    But then I remembered. I hadn''t done anything wrong. I calmed myself down again. I had to prove my innocence. I couldn''t stay locked up here.


    If Jude didn''t wake up soon, Aiden and his family would definitely make a move.


    Even if I waster proven innocent, it might already be toote.


    The police handed me the phone. I stared at the messages in shock.


    The texts were sent from Jude''s number to Bethany''s phone.


    The messages not only gave instructions to Grover about where to take her after the kidnapping but also included details about bringing her to the hospital today.


    There were even threatening messages to Grover, saying that if he didn''t follow orders, "I" would kill his daughter, along with a photo of a young girl.


    I stared at the unfamiliar child,pletely stunned. What the hell was all this?


    I snapped, "No! I don''t know Grover! I''ve never seen that little girl before. And Jude... Jude was drugged and being resuscitated at the time!


    "And why would I tell a kidnapper to bring Bethany to a hospital? That doesn''t even make sense!"


    I fought to defend myself, but the police didn''t seem to believe a word I said.


    An officer said, "Jude was unconscious, and you used his phone. Isn''t that reasonable? We found Grover''s daughter in a small apartment registered under your name. What else do you have to say?"


    I was so stunned I couldn''t speak. I knew someone was setting me up, but I didn''t know who.


    Back then, I had beenpletely focused on Jude. I hadn''t even looked to see where his phone was.


    Suddenly thinking of Vivian, I quickly said, "Vivian broke into thepany today to steal documents. I have security footage! And the faulty materials all came from her family''s factory!"


    I added, "She also had ess to my house. She could''ve stolen my jewelry and given it to the kidnapper. It had to be her! She even drugged Jude!"


    Chapter 80 The Murderer


    My thoughts were a mess, but I forced myself to say everything I could. Any clue could prove my innocence


    I said, "Also, I never had contact with Bethany. You can check for fingerprints or 011. // prove I''m innocen


    "No. It''ll only prove you''re a suspect. The police pulled out another report Forensics rushed the D11A sinstysis. Your hair and skin cells were found on Bethany Even the scent of your perfume


    He continued, "Ada Carson, I suggest you stop holding on to false hope. You know thew. Confess and you''ll be treated leniently. Think carefully"


    The officers left, and I was alone in the interrogation room.


    But I didn''t kill anyone, so what the hell was going on?


    All night, they kept asking me the same questions, over and over again. I kept answering, over and over again, until I felt like I was falling apart.


    Finally, I copsed back into the chair, my body slowly sliding downward.


    The officer pressured me. "Ada Carson, you''d better stop ying gamest


    My vision was blurry as I stared at the officer. "Officer... I just had surgery for cancer.


    In that daze, I vaguely saw someone open the door, and someone unlocked my cuffs. Through the crack in the door, I thought I saw Dorian.


    I tried to smile at him, but I had no strength left. In the end, I slowly closed my eyes.


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    Chapter 81 Something''s Fishy


    Chapter 81 Something''s Fishy


    As I slowly regained consciousness, I didn''t even need to open my eyes to know that I was back in the hospital.


    But this time, there were no familiar faces by my side, only the police.


    The doctor examined me with a much more serious expression.


    The doctor said, "Mrs. Carson, I''ve told you before. This is your second rpse. You need to take care of your body, or else... If it happens again, there might be no saving me. I know."


    I looked at the doctor calmly. "Sorry to trouble you again."


    He wanted to speak more, then nced at the police out of the corner of his eye and decided to say no more.


    In the end, he just said that my condition was bad, and the cancer cells could spread at any time. To be honest, I was already a dying person months ago. Perhaps many things I was doing now weren''t even necessary.


    I understood that he was trying to speak on my behalf. I nodded at him gratefully.


    Given my current condition, it wouldn''t be hard to investigate. The police probably already know that I have no reason to kill Bethany.


    I''d been nning to divorce Jude for a long time, and over the years, he''s had countless women around him. If I cared about reputation, I would''ve left a long


    time ago.


    The female officer''s attitude softened significantly, and she assured me they would uncover the truth.


    I requested a newwyer and asked to see Casey. I wanted to authorize her to act on my behalf.


    When she saw me in the hospital room, bald from treatment, she was already sobbing uncontrobly.


    The doctor was right. My condition really was bad. I could faint at any moment.


    The newwyer was one of Dorian''s trusted people, the same one who brought awyer to the police station the day I was arrested.


    Many matters at the Carson Group were being handled by Leonard, but his team wasn''t skilled in criminal cases. So changingwyers made sense.


    Lalso asked thewyer to help me legally authorize Casey to handle everything for me while I was unable to go out.


    Thewyer asked, "Mrs. Carson, how long will the authorization be valid?"


    I replied, "There''s no time limit. I trust her."


    I didn''t know how much longer I could hold on in this condition. So I might as well


    let Casey take care of everything.


    After thewyer left, Ewan came to see me.


    Even though I hadn''t been cleared of the murder suspicion yet, the news was already all over the inte.


    I had be a viin in the public''s eyes, a ruthless woman who would stop at nothing to take control of the Carson Group. Their stock had plummeted, and it was starting to affect the entirepany.


    It was true. If Jude never woke up, the Carson Group would fall into my hands.


    But what they didn''t know was, for someone like me, even having all the money in the world wouldn''t matter.


    "Jude said you have low blood sugar. Is it really this serious?" Ewan looked at me inquisitively. I didn''t know what methods he used to get in, but he was here alone.


    I nodded and forced myself to stay alert. "There''s just been too much going ontely. I haven''t slept at all. It''s nervous exhaustion. I did it on purpose."


    He didn''t question me and even nodded approvingly. "A tactical retreat. Very good. Don''t worry. Veronica will talk to the doctors and make arrangements to keep you in the hospital as long as possible."


    As expected of Jude''s grandfather. He even spoke like him.


    They all assumed I was faking it. I had no intention of exining myself. But there was one thing I had to make him aware of.


    I said, "Ewan, Casey has the password to my safe. She also has surveince footage. Vivian definitely has issues."


    Ewan asked, "You mean she poisoned Jude? Or that she kidnapped Bethany?"


    Ewan had already thought of many possibilities. But I still shook my head. "It''s not just those things. Her very presence around Jude is suspicious."


    I continued, "Her clothing and style resemble mine from my university days, maybe 60 or 70 percent simr. Her face too. Her major has nothing to do with the position, and based on her resume, she should''ve been eliminated in the first round. She shouldn''t have even gotten an interview."


    Chapter 81 Something''s Fishy


    I added, "And she seems overly involved in the design department. I think something''s wrong."


    Even while I was unconscious, my mind had been spinning nonstop.


    Once I woke up, everything started to piece itself together. And at the center of it all was Vivian.


    When Casey came to visit, she told me Vivian hadn''t shown up at all since the incident. But with everyone in chaos, no one noticed where she went.


    Even though Jude was in aa, she still didn''t show up. It didn''t make sense. After I reminded him, Ewan finally realized something was off.


    He furrowed his brow and lowered his head, as if pondering a difficult problem.


    "Alright. I''ll look into it. But Ada, there''s something you need to understand." He looked up and gave me a scrutinizing stare.


    He said, "The Carson family can''t have only Jude as its heir. He took quite arge dose of sleeping pills this time, but thankfully, his body isn''t too badly affected. Still, he must have a sessor. Once he wakes up, I need the two of you to have a child within a year. Do you understand?"


    I swallowed hard. I had already guessed he would bring this up.


    We''d been married for three years without a child, and that had always been a sore point for him.


    Now, with Jude in aa, the issue of an heir became urgent. I could understand how the older generation thought.


    But with my body in this condition, having a child was pure fantasy.


    I closed my eyes briefly. "I''m sorry, Ewan. I can''t have children."


    When I opened my eyes again, there was no trace of surprise on Ewan''s face. He


    must''ve already suspected it.


    I rasped out, "I''ve already mentioned divorce to Jude. I don''t want a cent of his


    assets. But he hasn''t agreed yet."


    Ewan looked at me for a long time before finally nodding.


    He said, "Good child. You''ve been through a lot. The Carson family won''t treat you unfairly. I''ll help you with the divorce."

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    Chapter 82 Ruling Out Suspects


    Chapter 82 Ruling Out Suspects


    Even though I couldn''t leave the hospital room or use my phone, I still figured that the situation with the Carson Group must''ve caused an uproar.


    Jude was in aa, there had been a fatal ident at a construction site, and I was the suspected murderer... Any one of these would''ve been shocking enough for the inte.


    Every day, there were police officers stationed at my hospital room. If it were confited that I hadmitted murder, I would be a serious criminal. Naturally, they''d keep a tight watch on me.


    When Casey came to visit with thewyer, she brought bad news. "Aiden brought out a signed authorization from Jude, saying he''s now the acting president and allpany affairs fall under his control."


    She continued, "Jude still hasn''t woken up, and now you''re in this state... What are we going to do? He''s already started meddling with the HR department."


    She added, "I argued with him, but he just said you''re a murderer. He said the Carson family is going to take back the shares in your hands and cut all ties with you. What a bastard!"


    Her tone was furious. It was clear she''d been under pressure these past few days too. And all of this only confirmed my suspicions.


    Aiden had always put on the face of a kind older cousin, but the moment Jude was in trouble, he swooped in to seize power. Everything had gone too smoothly for him. It just wasn''t possible.


    Especially when I heard that the final approval on several design department projects had Aiden''s signature, and all the documents were now with him. I became even more suspicious.


    I said, ¡°Impossible. The Design Departments One and Two are full of long-time employees. When the situation''s unclear, none of them would act rashly."


    I knew my people well. Aiden had no foundation. It made no sense for anyone to defect to him.


    Casey seemed a little disheartened. "But he''s holding the key designs for major projects, and he changed the system passwords. I can''t even get in."


    My heart sank. These major projects were the backbone of the Carson Group''s development ns for the next five years.


    Aiden had only been at thepany for a few days, yet he was able to precisely identify the economic lifeline and lock down control over all designs. He definitely had an insider.


    But Randy had already been exposed. So who else could it be?


    Dous''s face shed through my mind, but I had no solid proof. All I could do was quietly remind Casey to be careful around him.


    Visiting hours were ending. Casey''s eyes were red as she looked at me.


    She said, "Ada, you have to be okay. Take the medicine the doctor gives you. Don''t be afraid of chemo. If anything happens to you, it''s really over."


    I nodded silently, when suddenly a thought struck me.


    If something happened to me, it would at most lead to the division of my shares. But if something happened to Jude?


    Imanded, "Casey, ask Dorian to help find someone to keep a close watch on Jude. Don''t let anyone take advantage of the situation. Go to Ewan and exin the situation with thepany."


    She nodded numbly, clearly not understanding my meaning.


    But time was short. I didn''t have the energy to exin everything. I could only hope the people around me weren''t fools.


    The female officer beside me nced over and cleared her throat. "The doctor said you need plenty of rest. Be careful. It could rpse again."


    I looked at her gratefully, theny back down. A wave of weakness swept over me.


    My body was truly too fragile. But even so, I couldn''t let things continue this way.


    Not for myself, but for the rtionship I had with Jude since college, and for Ewan, who helped both me and my mom.


    And then there was what Mireille said the other day, about Jude investigating my dad''s car ident. I didn''t know why, b I felt like I was starting to owe him something.


    A debt of gratitude was the hardest to repay.


    Sessfully unlocked!


    Days passed without me even realizing. Then, suddenly, the same officer who


    had taken me to the police station showed up at my hospital room.


    They said, "Ada Carson, your name has been cleared. The surveince team will be withdrawn soon, and you''re free to


    Chapter 82 Ruling Out Suspects


    move around.


    "There were two intern doctors on duty that night who were cking off and smoking in the emergency stairwell. They saw you rush over after hearing a scream."


    I let out a long sigh of relief, repeating my thanks over and over again. Even if I had be a suspect, I never truly wanted to be a criminal. There was still so much to be done at the Carson Group. I couldn''t just sit in a hospital bed. The officer said, "We still need your help regarding Vivian. Please cooperate. "She''s missing, and her ounts showrge overseas wire transfers, but she''s already moved that money again to other offshore ounts. If you have any leads, please share them."


    I nodded quickly and shared all of my suspicions, especially about what happened at the construction site.


    I said, "The materials used at the site were likely substandard and supplied by Skydiver Material. My colleague Casey has the documents. I put them in my safe."


    The officer kept nodding and then asked, "Can she ess your home?"


    I nodded. "Yes, she has the password."


    The police likely already knew she was Jude''s mistress. I didn''t hide anything.


    I exined, "She''s the one who arranged the kidnapping of Bethany and also stole the jewelry. We''ve recovered the surveince footage."


    The officer responded, "She probably brought the little girl to your apartment too. Someone saw her taking the girl there. Oh, and please check how much jewelry is missing."


    I looked at the officer in confusion. "My friend was at my ce, and the storage card was gone."


    The officer replied, "The camera system is set to auto-upload via Wi-Fi. Jude''s assistant, Veronica, had already found the footage and handed it over to us. It''s because she turned in the video and helped locate eyewitnesses at the hospital that we were able to clear your name so quickly."


    I was stunned by the officer''s words. Veronica had never liked me. Yet she actually helped me?


    poked toward the door. She was still dressed in her usual business attire, pushing


    up her ck-rimmed sses with that same cold,posed expression.


    But I thought I saw her quietly wipe the corner of her eye.


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    Chapter 83 Awake

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    Chapter 83 Awake


    After the police left, Veronica only gave me a quick summary of thepany''s situation before hurrying back, not even waiting for me to say thank you.


    But my condition really wasn''t good. The doctor strongly rmended I stay under observation for a while longer. Still, really couldn''t afford to stay here any longer.


    Practically staggering, I made my way to Jude''s hospital room. After all this time, still hadn''t woken up.


    The young nurse looked at me sympathetically. "Mrs. Carson, true feelings reveal themselves in hard times. When he wakes up, he''ll definitely remember your devotion."


    I lowered my gaze and forced a slight smile. It''d actually be better if he didn''t remember.


    If he did remember, he probably still wouldn''t agree to the divorce, which would only make things harder.


    The Carson family might look peaceful on the surface, but under it all, the undercurrents were as strong as ever.


    Jude had no children, so there was no way Ewan would let me keep being the Carson family''s daughter-inw.


    Honestly, Vivian really shouldn''t have helped outsiders. She could''ve just reced me directly and be the most honoreddy in the Carson family.


    But some things didn''t need Ewan to investigate. I could pretty much piece it together myself.


    Aiden had always been eyeing the Carson Group. But with Ewan and Jude keeping a close watch, he and his father''s side of the family had no chance.


    So hetched onto Vivian, who bore a slight resemnce to me back in the day. He knew there was a rift between Jude and me, and did this on purpose to spite


    me.


    As long as we divorced and I walked away with a chunk of shares, Aiden couldter buy them back and slowly devour Carson Group from within.


    What he didn''t expect was that we never actually divorced. On top of that, we secured several major coborations. That was why Aiden resorted to extreme measures, dragging Vivian and other insiders into the mix.


    Looking at Jude lying peacefully on the hospital bed, I suddenly felt a wave of helplessness.


    From the time we started dating until now, aside from that time he went abroad, it was always Jude who had been holding everything together.


    I gently held his hand. "Jude, it''s my turn to carry the load this time. Please wake up soon. I can''t hold on much longer."


    Maybe it was because I finally let my guard down, but I ended up falling asleep right by his bedside.


    I was vaguely aware of someone touching my bald head, and I pped the hand away in irritation.


    Then I saw Jude looking slightly embarrassed. "Your skin is... pretty nice."


    I rolled my eyes at him and checked the time. I had to get to work soon. His timing really couldn''t have been better.


    As the doctor checked him over, I asked, "Did you ever sign an authorization letter for Aiden? He''s taken over everything at thepany."


    Jude furrowed his brow in thought, then shook his head after a moment.


    He said, "I don''t remember. But I think I might have regained consciousness


    briefly during thea. I''m not sure if I signed anything then."


    I hadn''t been at his side for the entire time he was unconscious, so I couldn''t be sure either.


    But Aiden''s actions were way too suspicious. In the end, I decided to go check out thepany myself.


    Jude wanted toe with me, but I told him Ewan wasing over soon. I quickly called Ewan.


    I said, "Ewan, he''s awake. I want him to stay at the old residence for now. Could you send a few more bodyguards over?"


    "Yes. Let''s tell everyone his health is too weak for work. I''ll take full responsibility at thepany for now." Ewan agreed to cooperate, which gave me a bit of peace of mind.


    With Jude still around, many of thepany insiders wouldn''t dare act out. But if


    it were just me, I knew some of them would get bold.


    If we didn''t root out the toxins in thepany now, they''d only rot the ce from the inside.


    I put on my wig and returned to thepany, only to findplete chaos. A bunch of people were arguing. I walked over, puzzled.


    When they saw me walk in, the room went dead silent for a second. Then, everyone swarmed toward me.


    Chapter 83 Awake


    "Mrs. Carson, I''ve been here since the beginning! I''m a department manage. How can they just fire me like that?"


    "I''m still handling multiple projects! How can they just tell me to get lost?"


    "Mrs. Carson, you''re Mr. Carson''s wife. You have to stand up for us old employees!"


    Most of the peopleing to me in protest were thepany''s core workforce. Veterans who had fought alongside Jude and Ewan for years.


    I turned around and saw Aiden and Bodhi both there.


    They looked momentarily stunned to see me. Aiden quickly walked over. "Ada, you were cleared of all charges? That''s great news. Thepany''s a mess right now. You should go spend time with Jude. Let me handle this."


    He smiled warmly, but there was a hidden edge to it that made my skin crawl.


    Bodhi waddled over with his big belly and said bluntly, "Women should stay home and take care of the household. You can''t even have a kid, and you still want to run apany?"


    His words were harsh, and all eyes turned to me.


    But I simply smiled. "Whether I have children or not, I''m still Mrs. Carson, Jude''s legal wife."


    I added, "He''s already awake, and he said he never authorized either of you. So everything you''ve done holds no weight. I suggest you both take your people and leave."


    As soon as I said that, the senior employees who were being forced out all rallied behind me, ring at the two men. "Do you think just having thest name Carson makes you all-powerful?"


    He continued, ¡°Our boss''s wife is right here. Who the hell are you people to boss us around? If you screw up the projects, can you afford the losses? Do you have the money to pay for it?"


    The criticism got louder and nastier. Aiden''s face turned bright red. He hurriedly had his secretary bring out the authorization letter.


    He said, "Jude signed this personally. How could it not count?"


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    Chapter 84 Confession


    The employees behind me all fell silent, staring at me in disbelief.


    If that document really was authorized, they''d likely all be out of a job.


    I stepped forward and nced at the paper in Aiden''s hand, then scoffed. "You call this chicken scratch a signature?"


    He said, "Jude was in aa at the time. Who knows how you got this signed? Was there awyer present? Any medical staff to bear witness?


    "Jude personally said he didn''t authorize anything. Are you seriously trying to fake this?"


    Since Jude said he didn''t remember, I''d just take that as him not knowing.


    After all, he was barely conscious. Even if the signature was his, under those conditions, it wouldn''t legally count.


    I knew that. And Aiden knew it too.


    He shot me a venomous re. "This is Jude''s signature. Do you think I''d dare forge something like that? If you say he''s awake, then fine. Let''s go confront him. Let''s go!"


    He really knew how to find a way out for himself, and actually took his people and left.


    When Bodhi passed by, he tried to bump into me on purpose, but Casey shoved him aside without hesitation.


    "Fat bastard. Disgusting," she muttered under her breath. I quickly tugged on her sleeve.


    She was still going to be working at Carson Group in the future. It was better not to provoke these petty people too much.


    With the crisis temporarily averted, I told everyone to return to their posts and get back to work.


    We had topensate the victim''s family, sue Skydiver Material, and suppress the negative public opinion.


    And thanks to Aiden''s recent chaos, thepany was in aplete mess. I had to clean it up quickly.


    Ewan called to let me know Jude had been taken back to the old residence, which finally gave me some peace of mind.


    He asked, ¡°Ada, do you want toe back to the old house? I''ll send a few people to pick you up."


    I replied, ¡°Ewan, I''ll stay at a hotel near the office for a while. There''s too much work."


    He didn''t press the issue.


    After all, Jude and I were still nning to get divorced. The less we saw each other, the better. Avoiding too much interaction with the Carson family was for the best.


    Casey had basically been working overtime with me every day. Worried about my health, she even moved into the hotel with me.


    I wasn''t sure if it was some kind of final burst of energy, but I''d been feeling better.


    I was more productive and even started getting my appetite back.


    Especially when we won the tender for the overpass design project. I was over the moon.


    This project had actually been pursued by Carson Group for months. But the initial designs weren''t right and had been rejected multiple times.


    Lately, I''d been sleeping lightly, and in my spare time, I''d tinker with revisions. I brought together Departments One and Two to work on it. Everything just came together naturally.


    After winning the bid, Casey wanted to take me out to celebrate. But I shook my head.


    I said, "Let''s not. We still need to pull together detailed proposal. I was thinking..."


    Casey insisted. "We justnded the bid! That can wait. I''m treating you to BBQ tonight!"


    The other coworkers had already left, so she dragged me out quickly.


    But before leaving, I opened a security program on myptop. If anyone tried to


    input the password, the webcam would automatically turn on.


    After what happenedst time, I wasn''t going to be careless again.


    We had just ordered food when I got an alert from my phone app. Someone had actually tried to ess myptop.


    All of Carson Group''s sensitive data was on thatptop. It was locked in my drawer. I wondered who could''ve opened it.


    When I pulled up the app, I saw it. Dous was sitting in front of myptop, talking on the phone.


    He said, "Can''t you just unlock it remotely? I gave you two thousand dors. What the hell are you doing? Hurry up! She''ll be back soon, you useless piece of trash!¡±


    I didn''t know what he plugged into myptop, but he really managed to break into the system.


    Chapter 84 Confession


    I didn''t make a fuss. Instead, I called up a few of Jude''s bodyguards to head


    upstairs while Casey and I rushed back to the office by car.


    By the time we got there, Dous was already under control.


    He red at me furiously. "Mrs. Carson, what''s the meaning of this? I just came back to grab some files!"


    "Grabbing files from the director''s office?" I raised an eyebrow. "Very impressive." One of the bodyguards handed me a small device. "A signal jammer."


    I looked at Dous and smiled. "All prepped and ready, huh? Tell me, if I handed you over to the police, how long do you think you''d be in for?"


    Dous was someone who cared deeply about appearances. He always yed it cool, but secretly had to win everything. The overpass project had originally been his to lead. But he didn''t have the capability, so naturally, he couldn''tnd it. Now that I had won it, of course he was bitter. He''d tried to sabotage the final submission.


    Maybe it wasn''t just about jealousy. Someone else probably didn''t want Carson Group to seed either. Dous snorted coldly. "Go ahead and call the cops. Let''s see what they can do. Your data wasn''t stolen."


    I nodded. At most, it was attempted sabotage.


    My system had been upgraded and reinforced. He wouldn''t have found the design files in such a short time. Still, seeing the smug look on his face, I couldn''t help butugh:


    I said, "Dous, you really think no one knows about between you and Randy?"


    His eyes went wide with disbelief. "You know?"


    I set the signal jammer aside and stared him down coldly. "Start talking. If you


    confess now, you might still have a sliver of a chance."


    ¿Ú


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    Chapter 85 Her Daughter


    Chapter 85 Her Daughter

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    Chapter 85 Her Daughter


    Chapter 85 Her Daughter


    Dous''s breathing turned rapid, his eyes filled with barely concealed panic.


    He pleaded, "No, it wasn''t me, it''s all a misunderstanding, a misunderstanding!"


    I looked at him and sighed softly. "Dous, with your experience, you could easily


    be a director somewhere else. I know you''re not the mastermind. Why ruin your life for someone else?"


    Casey kept signaling to me from the side. I knew she wanted to call the police, but shook my head.


    If we reported it now, it''d be hard to find out who was behind it all. It might even alert them.


    I needed to get him talking first. If it really was Aiden pulling the strings, I had to get solid proof.


    Dous narrowed his eyes in thought, then looked at me. "Ada, you''re Mrs. Carson. Can you promise not to call the police?"


    "What do you think?" I wasn''t about to give scum like him any guarantees. He seemed a bit deted and sat down heavily on the floor,


    He said, "Okay, I''ll confess. It was all Vivian''s idea. She said if I could take you down, she''d be Mrs. Carson, and I''d be made director of the design department."


    He added, ¡°She bought the design blueprints and wanted to put them under my name. I refused, so she had Randy take the fall instead."


    "You nted the virus and attacked me too, didn''t you?" I looked at him without any expression.


    He lowered his head and nodded miserably. "Yes. I was being stupid. I had proof Randy took the money, and I scared him a bit, so he confessed instead."


    He added, "But Vivian definitely has someone backing her. I''ve heard someone giving her instructions over the phone."


    My eyes lit up, so there really was someone behind Vivian. "Who is it? Is it Aiden?"


    Dous shook his head. "She said that one day Carson Group would be that person''s, but I don''t know who it is."


    It seemed like a dead end, but not quite. There was only one direct heir in the Carson family, Jude.


    If someone else were nning to take over thepany, who could it be?


    Casey sat beside me, frowning. She looked just as puzzled.


    Dous looked up at me again, eyes full of pleading.


    He said, "Mrs. Carson, for the sake of our time as colleagues, just fire me, please don''t call the police. Just treat me like a fart and let me go. I swear I''ll never do anything like this again!"


    I responded, "Onest question. Why do you trust Vivian so much? You should know Jude had plenty of women around him."


    There were a lot. After our marriage, I''d met at least twenty. And that didn''t even count the small-time actresses and models he never brought home.


    So why would Dous ce all his trust in Vivian?


    He looked embarrassed, coughed heavily. "I... I knew her before. Back in school, she was... a hostess at a private club. She even did some escorting."


    "What?" Casey cried out in shock.


    I was too shocked to speak.


    Dous, now clearly giving up, just spilled everything.


    Vivian hadn''t graduated before she started working. She made good money and even provided escort services. Dous had been one of her regr clients.


    Dous exined, "Two years ago, she quit. I heard she got pregnant and had a daughter. That''s when we lost contact. But... she has pictures of us together from back then. She''s been ckmailing me!"


    Suddenly, everything clicked in my head.


    The kidnapped girl, supposedly the daughter of the suspect.


    And Vivian was able to take the child away eas hat was way too suspicious. What


    if the child was hers to begin with, and the kidnapper was her boyfriend?


    Sessfully unlocked!


    The police arrived just as I finished questioning him.


    I had messaged Casey earlier to let her know she could call them now. The station was nearby, so they arrived quickly.


    When he saw the police, Dous started struggling madly. "Ada, you lied! You said you wouldn''t call them! You bitch! How


    Chapter 85 Her Daughter


    dare you lie to me!"


    I looked at him coldly. "Only a fool would make promises to someone like you."


    I quickly recounted what he had just told us.


    An officer said, "Mrs. Carson, thank you for your cooperation. We''ll work to


    apprehend the other suspects as soon as possible.


    "Also, the kidnapper, Grover, has already confessed. He''s Vivian''s ex-boyfriend,


    and the little girl is Vivian''s daughter"


    The officer''s words didn''t surprise me. I''d already guessed as much.


    But if they had a child together, why did they reconnect after separating?


    I asked, "Did they divorce or...?"


    "She left him after being noticed by a wealthy man." The officer''s expression was


    a little strange, and I immediately got what he meant.


    I asked, "Jude Carson?"


    The officer replied, "Uncertain. We only know the man''s surname is Carson. His full identity is still unclear.


    "She ditched her ex for a rich guy and then used her daughter to ckmail him. Otherwise, Grover wouldn''t havemitted a crime."


    Even though he didn''t say it, I could tell from the officer''s expression. He also suspected the man was Jude.


    But Vivian''s appearance in all this was too suspicious. And more than that, she had someone mysterious backing her


    I asked, "Can you find out when Vivian was first approached by that wealthy man?


    I need to know if the person really was Jude,"


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    Chapter 86 The Last Mission


    Chapter 86 The Last Mission

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    Chapter 86 The Last Mission


    The police were also a bit awkward, but in the end, they nodded and promised to let me know if they got any updates.


    As they took Dous away, I quietly followed along.


    1 asked, ¡°Officer, Grover definitely pointed to Vivian as the mastermind. I want to know what he has to say. Can I identify him?"


    Since I was the direct victim in this case, the police didn''t make things too difficult


    for me.


    And, of course, I wanted to know who was behind Vivian. The faster we found the truth, the better.


    Without concrete evidence, the Carson family wouldn''t believe a word from me, an outsider.


    Entering the interrogation room''s surveince area, I finally saw Grover,


    He looked drained, but seemed far more rxed now, probably because he knew his daughter had been saved.


    The police asked him about Vivian, and he was quick to spill everything.


    He said, "Well, there''s this boss with the surname Carson who took an interest in her. She became rich, so she didn''t want me or the kid anymore.


    "It''s probably Jude, right? Who else could give her that much money?"


    He added, "I only looked for her after seeing a news article posted by her friend. That''s when I realized she became someone''s mistress and was unting her wealth. Her daughter was in preschool, and she didn''t even have enough to pay for that, so of course, I wanted to ask her for child support."


    It wasn''t Vivian who sought him out. It was Grover who went looking for her.


    But since Vivian had hooked herself onto Jude, she clearly didn''t want to acknowledge her past, even denying her own daughter.


    I had gone from shocked topletely indifferent by now.


    Vivian had proven herself to be quite a schemer, and Jude wasn''t a fool. If he''d been fooled for so long, it only meant that she was really quite clever.


    Grover cried loudly, "She even threatened to call the police, saying she was a rich woman and the police would only believe her. She''d have me locked up.


    "I can''t go to jail! If I do, what will happen to my daughter?"


    One of the officers mmed the table. "Grover, you''d better tell the truth! You''re asking for money for your kid, right?


    "Don''t think we don''t know anything. Have you forgotten what you''ve done? Still not being honest?"


    I didn''t expect a twist in the interrogation, but after some hesitation, Grover finally confessed.


    It turned out that years ago, he had identally run over an elderly man in his vige.


    It was just his bad luck. The old man had already been in poor health. Grover knocked him down lightly, and the man seemed to die from the shock.


    Grover begged and promised topensate the family, so they didn''t report the incident to the authorities.


    Back in those days in the vige, when an elderly person died, the family would handle everything quickly, and there wasn''t as much of an investigation. So the matter was left alone, but Grover had to pay them a monthly living allowance. He exined, "Officer, they were really unreasonable. Later, I found out the old man had just been diagnosed with cancer and only had a few months left to live." He added, ¡°I gave them 30 thousand dors at first, but then they kept asking for more every month, saying I had to keep sending money for the kid''s college education.


    "And now they want two thousand dors a month. Where am I supposed to get that kind of money?"


    Grover kept crying, and his story started to drift off topic. Eventually, the police pulled him back. "Did Vivian use this against you?"


    Grover nodded heavily.


    Vivian was his fellow viger. They had dated in the past, but broke up over this very issue.


    Sessfully unlocked!


    Grover pleaded, "I really had no choice. I couldr. go to jail. My daughtests only two years old!


    "Later, Vivian gave me money, saying that if I helped her, I''d never have to worry about money again."


    He added, "She said once her people took power, she could even send my daughter abroad. I was doing it for my daughter, for my daughter!"


    Chapter 86 The Last Mission


    I couldn''t listen to him anymore. I just felt sorry for their daughter.


    I remembered what she looked like in the photo. She had attractive eyes and a pretty face. She really looked like Vivian.


    But unfortunately, this father who imed to be doing everything for his daughter was actually just thinking about himself, He''d been talking for so long in the interrogation, and yet he never even asked how his daughter was doing. It was truly


    ironic.


    I couldn''t take any more of his pointless rambling. I left the surveince room and went out into the hallway.


    The policeter told me that Grover didn''t kill Bethany. He was just responsible for bringing her to Vivian


    The hospital''s surveince footage clearly showed the times he entered and left the ce, and there was no time for him tomit the crime.


    As for Dous, they''d found out a lot from him as well.


    He had made a deal with Vivian early on. He was supposed to report to her immediately after seeding, and she promised to transfer him 100 thousand dors,


    The police then had him call Vivian directly, trying to locate her.


    Unfortunately, Vivian was too cautious. She hung up after just thirty seconds, and when she did transfer the money, it was done through an offshore ount, making it impossible to trace the source. The leads were cut off once again.


    I felt a bit deted. It seemed like finding Vivian was going to be much harder than


    I thought. My name had been cleared, but I still didn''t know whether Aiden was behind it all.


    Casey gently squeezed my hand. "Ada, the doctor said you shouldn''t overwork yourself."


    I patted her hand, signaling that I was fine.


    I was worried, of course. But if I could resolve the issues the Carson family was


    facing by using my body, I could consider it paying back a favor.


    In that moment, I felt an unexpected sense of peace.


    After all, I was going to divorce Jude anyway. It might as well be my final task as Mrs. Carson.


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 God Re 87

    Chapter 87 The Flesh And Blood


    Chapter 87 The Flesh And Blood


    There wasn''t anything else the police needed from me, so I took a cab back to the old house.


    With such a huge scandal in the Carson family, I couldn''t stay at Casey''s ce anymore.


    Besides, since Jude was only pretending to be seriously ill, I had to report thepany''s situation to him daily so he could continue managing things remotely. But as soon as I opened the vi gate, I saw someone I never expected to see.


    Aside from Bodhi''s family, Vivian was sitting upright on the living room sofa. She even raised her chin at me provocatively. Her hand subconsciously rubbed her belly, and pride overflowed from her expression.


    In those few seconds, my mindpletely froze. I couldn''t figure out what was going on.


    Mireille leaned back on the sofa, handed a grape to Vivian, and gave me a disdainful look.


    She said, "Some hens that don''ty eggs should just step down. Vivian''s pregnant with Jude''s child. Are you really not going to give her a proper status?"


    Bodhi quickly chimed in, "Exactly. A Carson family child can''t be fatherless!¡±


    The two of them echoed each other, while Aiden silently sipped coffee on the side, though his eyes kept darting toward me. Ewan sat with a cold expression, watching everyone.


    Jude came over and took my hand, about to exin, but Bodhi interrupted again.


    He said, "Jude, you''re the only heir in your branch of the family. You can''t let the line die out!


    "If this were ancient times, Ada would''ve been divorced long ago after three years with no children!"


    That one sentence made Jude freeze, then turn around angrily. "This isn''t ancient times! What happens in my marriage is none of your business!"


    He turned back to me, but I gently pushed his hand away. I didn''t want to hear his exnation.


    Smiling, I walked over and sat in the corner of the room. "I just came back from the police station. Seems like the police are looking for Vivian."


    Vivian shrank back a little toward Mireille, clearly nervous. Mireille immediately grew displeased.


    She said, "Ada, what do you mean by that? Are you hoping the Carson family''s child is born in prison?"


    She continued, "You really are malicious. If you can''t have kids, you won''t let others have them either? If you weren''t barren, would Jude be out looking for so many women?"


    "That''s my personal business, Aunt Mireille. It''s not your ce to speak," Jude said, stepping in to block my view, suppressing his anger. But I wasn''t really angry.


    I never nned to have children for him anyway.


    Bodhi sneered. "With your health being so weak, could you even have kids? This might be yourst chance!*


    Out of the corner of my eye, I looked at Ewan. He hadn''t said anything this whole time, but it was clear he already understood everything.


    Even a fool could see that Vivian was working with Bodhi''s family. Her getting


    close to Jude back then was part of their n all along.


    Vivian cried pitifully, looking up at me with pleading eyes.


    She said, "Ada, I know you don''t like me, but the child is innocent. You can''t bear to let Jude have no heirs, right?"


    She turned to Jude. "Jude, do you really want to abandon me and our baby? Didn''t you always say you wanted your own child and a real home?"


    Her words didn''t just hurt Jude. They pierced me, too.


    I knew Jude wanted a child. I knew he wanted a family.


    As an orphan, he had only one wish, to have a blood rtive, someone to call family, someone he loved.


    I forced my eyes open wider, refusing to let the tears fall.


    Then, Vivian suddenly burst into tears and pleaded mean to frame you. I just happened to be there."


    Ididn'' Sessfully unlocked! She continued, "Bethany went too far. She was my best friend, but she exposed you and embarrassed Jude, even causing Carson Group''s stock to drop. I just wanted to teach her a lesson..."


    She added, "I didn''t mean to kill her. I was just scared and ran. I never thought the police would arrest you. I''m really sorry."


    She could even talk about murder like it was no big deal. It truly stunned me. What stunned me even more was that Bodhi''s


    Chapter 87 The Flesh And Blood


    family was still protecting her.


    Mireille pulled her up affectionately. "What are you doing? You''re someone who''s


    done a great service for the Carson family.


    No need for that! Stop crying now. Crying''s not good for the baby."


    The performance they were putting on wasughably pathetic.


    I pulled out my phone and was about to dial 911, but Ewan''s cane suddenly came down on it.


    He tapped it lightly, then shook his head at me.


    I paused, then nodded, putting the phone away.


    The baby in Vivian''s belly had Jude''s blood. Ewan would not turn a blind eye to


    that.


    Ewan ordered, "Housekeeper, take Miss Miller to the guest room."


    Mireille gave Vivian a knowing look. She immediately understood and followed the housekeeper upstairs.


    I understood then. They were letting her stay.


    Vivian had just entered the room when Ken''s family rushed in.


    Juno shouted, "No way! That baby might not even be ours. We can''t just ept


    any child into the Carson family!" Ken, usually quiet, turned red and agreed. "My wife''s right."


    He hurriedly pulled a bunch of photos and documents out of his bag. "Uncle Ewan, that woman definitely has issues!"


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 God Re 88

    Chapter 88 The Only Mrs. Carson


    Chapter 88 The Only Mrs. Carson


    "What kind of issue? Ken, are you just upset that Jude''s about to have a child and don''t want to see it born?"


    "You want to take over the family fortune, and you''re being this tant about it?"


    Mireille snapped back immediately and tried to snatch the photos from Ken''s hands.


    But Juno wasn''t one to be messed with either. She raised the photos high.


    She said, "If Jude and Ada had a child, we''d be setting off fireworks. But this woman? That baby might not even be Carson family blood!"


    She continued, "Look at these photos. She used to work as a hostess. Who knows how many men she''s slept with? And the police found out she already has a daughter!"


    Juno added, "She''s framed Ada how many times now? And you still dare to believe the baby''s definitely Jude''s?"


    Juno walked over and grasped my hand tightly.


    She told me, "Ada, don''t worry. Ken and I will stand up for you. To us, you''re the only true daughter-inw of the Carson family. We''ll never ept anyone else!"


    Of course, Mireille wouldn''t let go of this perfect opportunity and immediately started shouting again.


    Aiden continued to just watch the drama unfold, saying nothing.


    I knew very well that Ken''s family didn''t really want to help me. It was just that I couldn''t have children. So now their son, who had returned from abroad, would have a shot at rising in the Carson Group.


    Bodhi''s family had their own ns too. They wanted to control Jude through the child would be a powerful move.


    I didn''t say anything. Besides, I probably wouldn''t be part of this family much longer anyway.


    "Enough! What''s all this noise? This isn''t something to be proud of!" Ewan mmed his cane hard on the floor, and the room finally fell silent.


    Ken muttered grudgingly, "Uncle Ewan, that baby might not even be from our family. You can''t be confused about this."


    Juno added under her breath, "The media can find it out. Do you want a former escort as the Carson family''s matriarch?"


    That struck a nerve with Ewan.


    When Jude insisted on marrying me, the family was already against it because my family had gone bankrupt. They thought


    I didn''t deserve him.


    But Jude stood firm, and since we had been together since university, Ewan had let it go in the end.


    But now? With Vivian? Everyone would oppose it.


    If her identity were exposed, with today''s inte sleuths, they''d dig up her daughter, her escort history, even the men she slept with. By then, the Carson family would truly be theughingstock of the public.


    Ewan said, "That''s enough. Everyone, go home. This is a family matter. We''ll deal with it ourselves. Jude, Ada,e upstairs with me."


    Ewan didn''t say more and turned to leave.


    Jude and I exchanged nces, and I helped him upstairs.


    Behind us, Bodhi''s family was still yelling, but the housekeeper and servants had stepped in to block them.


    In the end, this was still Jude''s family business. They had no say.


    Everyone had their own agenda. Even I could see it, so of course others could too.


    "Jude, is the child yours?" Once inside the study, Ewan cut to the chase.


    Jude looked at me guiltily and said softly, "I''m not sure. I only slept with her twice... and both times, I took precautions."


    His voice was barely audible, but in the quiet of the study, it sounded crystal clear.


    I took a deep breath, keeping my expression calm. I''d seen him with other women even at home. This was nothing ne


    He reached out for my hand, and I dodged.


    Whether it was once or twice, it didn''t matter to me. And Vivian Was harry the only one he''d been with.


    Sessfully unlocked!


    Ewan paused in thought before looking up at Joger So there''s a chance


    there''s only a 1% chance, I can''t take that gamble. Do you understand?"


    yours. I doubt they''d risk a lie this big. Even if


    I understood. Ewan had always wanted Jude to have a child to solidify his position. He couldn''t afford to bet against this.


    But Vivian had killed someone. I couldn''t feel at ease about that.


    Chapter 88 The Only Mrs. Carson


    I said, "Ewan, she killed Bethany..."


    "I''ll handle it. Don''t worry. A Carson family child can''t be born in prison." Ewan


    waved his hand dismissively, like it was nothing of consequence.


    I lowered my head and said nothing. I knew there was no room to argue anymore.


    With the Carson family''s influence, protecting Vivian wouldn''t be difficult.


    After Bethany died, I hadn''t seen a single rtive show up at the police station. It seemed her family might''ve already been


    silenced.


    That would exin why Vivian showed up here so fearlessly.


    But suddenly, Jude spoke. "No. Ada and I will have a child. I don''t want this one."


    His fists clenched as he looked at Ewan, a flicker of unwillingness in his eyes. He tried to reach for my hand again, but I stepped away.


    Ewan frowned at our interaction and sighed.


    He said, "I''ll take care of her situation. I won''t let this affect the child''s mother. But she will not marry into the Carson family. Ada, you are still the only Mrs. Carson. That won''t change."


    I widened my eyes in disbelief and looked at him. "Ewan, didn''t we already agree that..."


    He raised his hand to stop me, then turned to Jude and said, in a slightly harsher tone, "Jude, leave us. I have something to say to Ada alone."


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 God Re 89

    Chapter 89 Carit Get A Divorce


    Jude sed, ''Grandos, what is it that i cant?


    "Leave'' Ewarts tone carried a trace of soger Jude didn''t dare dishe


    He looked at me, then at his grandfather, before finally turning and leaving the study.


    The moment he left, I immediately spoke up. "Ewan, didnt we have an argement


    He said he would help me get a divorce and wouldn''t make things diffose for me. So what was this nOWD Was I some kind of matriarch from ancient times, expected to ept my husband taking a concubinat


    Even if it was Vivian, she didn''t even deserve that tele


    Ewan replied, "We did have an agreement, but things have changed"


    Ewan looked visibly older, his hand rubbing his temple repeatedly. "Ada, you''re a good child. And yes, this is Jude''s fault. He s truly been reckless these past years


    1 lowered my head and said nothing. Everyone in the Carson family knew he was reckless. But they were family, I was just


    an outsider


    Seeing my silence, he sighed again.


    He continued, "Jude''s health hasn''t fully recovered. Vivian didn''t just drug him with sleeping pills. There was a tovin too."


    I was surprised. "She poisoned him?"


    Just the thought of Vivian being pregnant, possibly leaving Jude infertile, making her child the only heir to the Carson family, I felt a chill run down my spine.


    Ewan nodded. "We only discovered this recently. It won''t seriously harm his health, but it will affect his ability to have children."


    He added, "The doctor said the toxin will take at least two years to leave his system. With recovery, he won''t be able to have kids for three years


    I lowered my eyes. I understood what he meant.


    Looking at how Bodhi''s family was acting, there would probably be major shifts within these three years.


    Ewan couldn''t afford to take that risk. So Vivian''s unborn child wasn''t just her bargaining chip. It was also Jude''s.


    I took a deep breath, lifted my gaze, and looked at him firmly.


    I said, "Ewan, then I''ll divorce Jude. Let Vivian marry in. No matter who''s backing her, whatever promises they gave her will never be better than being Mrs. Carson."


    I added, "She''s a pragmatic woman. She knows how to weigh things. She wouldn''t risk siding with outsiders."


    I was already nning to divorce Jude. Now that Vivian was pregnant, it felt like the perfect resolution.


    Vivian hated me, but not Jude, not the Carson family. She would be eager to marry in.


    It was a win-win. I didn''t understand what Ewan was hesitating about.


    But then he sneered, "Her? Get married into this family? Not a chance. Ada, like I


    said before, you are the only Mrs. Carson. That won''t change."


    He continued, "I''ve seen your abilities. I know your heart for Jude. No one is better suited to hold this family together. So no, you can''t get divorced."


    This waspletely different from what I had expected. I wanted to argue, but the look in his eyes made it clear. There was no room for negotiation.


    Vivian''s background really did make her unfit for the Carson family. I''d overlooked that detail.


    I clenched my fists and tried to steady my voice. "Ewan, I''m grateful for what you did for me and my mother back then. But Jude and I have no feelings left. Divorce is better."


    Ewan responded, "Hold on. That wasn''t me helping you back then. It was Jude. I won''t take credit for what''s


    e got sick over it.


    between the hospital and home, despite his


    Ewan lifted his eyelids and finally revealed what happened back then. When I went abroad, Jude made a huge scenes Sessfully unlocked! His grandmother was also ill at the time, and he was my back and for own condition. That was when the Carson family brought him back in. Later, Ewan trained Jude personally, discovering that he had true potential. But unfortunately, he had always kept me in


    his


    heart.


    Chapter 89 Can''t Get A Divorce


    Ewan exined, "I found out you''d gone overseas, and Jude was surrounded by wolves. When your father got into trouble, he couldn''t leave to find you. He had no choice but to beg me to protect your mom."


    He added, ¡°If he hadn''t, your mother would''ve been finished. The fact that she lived until you came back. That was all thanks to Jude."


    Then I noticed a loophole in his words. "Those people?"


    Ewan said, "Jude investigated your father''s death. But he was blocked at every turn. He''s never stopped, all these years. "You say there''s no love between you and Jude. I don''t believe that. At the very least, he still loves you. You owe him."


    His gaze deepened, locking onto me. "Ada, I don''t understand young people''s love lives, and I don''t want to. But the Carson Group cannot be shaken.


    "Jude''s parents were destroyed by power struggles. Since you owe him, then protect him now."


    My heart surged with emotion. I couldn''t calm down.


    I had suspected something was off about my father''s death. Even our sudden business copse had always seemed unnatural.


    But back then, all I did was study and date. I didn''t know anything about thepany. Then I got sick.....


    Everything felt like a chain reaction. And now I realized my mom''s survival was all thanks to Jude.


    So many details I had ignored suddenly came back to me. The imported medication, the private hospital rooms, the top doctors always avable on call...


    Hearing those words, I slowly nodded.


    Ewan said, "Ada, I know you''re loyal andpassionate, so don''t bring up


    divorce again. At least not before the child turns three."


    I nodded slowly at Ewan''s words. "Ewan, I understand."


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 God Re 90

    Chapter 90 Get Out Now


    Chapter 90 Get Out Now


    When I left the old mansion, Bodhi and Ken''s families hadn''t left yet.


    Ewan told us to go first. Vivian would stay there with him, and he''d handle the rest.


    I didn''t want to listen to those people argue anyway. Since Ewan had made the final decision, there was nothing more to


    say.


    In the car, Jude cautiously asked, "Should we go back to Casey''s ce?"


    I replied, "Let''s go home."


    I turned to look out the window, not wanting to see his face.


    He looked stunned for a second but quickly nodded. "Okay, home''s good. Let''s go home, that''s best!"


    All the way back, he kept trying to make conversation, but I didn''t want to say a word.


    He tried asking what Ewan had said to me, but I didn''t want to answer that either.


    I had even more questions in my mind, but I was simply too exhausted.


    As soon as we got home, he pulled me into a tight hug.


    "Ada, I know you hate me, but please, I''m begging you. Just give me one more chance, okay? Let''s not get divorced. As long as we stay married, you can do whatever you want, alright?" He kept whispering in my ear, and I was getting really annoyed.


    I said, "Fine. No divorce."


    He asked, "What did you say?"


    I replied, "Or you can divorce me if you want. Your call."


    I looked at him nkly. Then he suddenly jumped up, like he''d just won the lottery.


    He eximed, "Honey, I swear, I''ll treat you right this time! No more fighting, I promise! Thank you, thank you for giving me another chance!"


    He pulled me into another hug and kissed me hard, then fumbled around in his pocket and pulled out our wedding rings. "Since we''re not divorcing... shouldn''t you maybe..." Before he could finish, I took the ring and put it back on my finger. I asked, "Happy now?"


    Jude nodded dumbly. Only then did I head to the bedroom to find my pajamas. The feeling of that familiar yet unfamiliar weight on my ring finger made me nce down. The wedding ring had been resized, just slightly smaller. It fit perfectly.


    That was exactly the kind of person Jude was. When he cared about you, it felt like the whole world was yours. But when he stopped caring...


    I shook my head hard and randomly pulled out a nightgown and some underwear.


    Given the current situation, I really couldn''t keep staying elsewhere. The media would twist the truth.


    But there was no way I''d sleep in the same bed as Jude, especially not one Vivian might''ve slept in.


    When he saw what I was doing, Jude panicked again. "Honey, aren''t you staying? Are you leaving again?"


    I replied, "I''m not leaving. I''m taking a shower. Then I''ll sleep in the guest room."


    I grabbed my clothes and headed straight to the bathroom.


    I could feel him pacing just outside the door for a long time, but he never came in. Even if he had, I would''ve kicked him out. The thought of him having a child with another woman made me physically nauseous. Thinking of Vivian being pregnant. I actually started to gag.


    "Ada? Are you okay?" Jude was knocking on the door now, his voice full of worry.


    Feeling him about toe in, I quickly wrapped myself in a towel. I didn''t want him to see the scar on my chest


    I''d once lied and told him it was from a cyst removal surgery. He had actually believed me.


    But if I used the same excuse again, he might get suspicious.


    Jude cracked the door open just a little. "Ada, are you okay?


    "Yeah." I stood slowly, turning my back to him.


    hurting because you haven''t eaten?"


    Sessfully unlocked!


    He quickly agreed and left. I leaned against the wall for a long time.


    He didn''t stop me from staying in the guest room. In fact, he even thoughtfully


    changed the sheets and pillowcases for me.


    But when I looked at the oatmeal on the table, I had absolutely no appetite.


    Chapter 90 Get Out Now


    Lying in the guest bed, I counted sheep again and again. I remembered what the doctor said. If there were a third rpse, I would die.


    The next day at work, Casey sneaked over to pull me aside. I gave her a quick summary of what had happened.


    She was stunned into silence for over ten minutes.


    I said, "Casey, I''m moving back in with Jude. When you have time, go to your ce and pack your stuff."


    "No way!" Casey refused immediately.


    "He''s not a good person! And now there''s a baby involved with Vivian? Why would you go back?" She deliberately kept her voice low, but even so, a few people looked over.


    I pulled her to the end of the hallway and made sure no one was around before speaking. ¡°Jude''s been investigating my dad''s death this whole time. I think something''s fishy about how he died."


    I added, "And he''s been protecting my mom all along. I do owe him. The Carson Group needs me to hold things together right now. I can''t leave."


    Casey looked at me, her eyes full of not just sympathy, but pain. "Ada, are you seriously going to raise someone else''s child? You''re Ada."


    I lowered my head. The old Ada was already dead.


    She died when Jude married me and humiliated me. And she died on the


    operating table during my second surgery.


    Just as I was about to speak, a sickeningly sweet voice cut in. "Mrs. Carson, Ms.


    Olsen, what are you two whispering about during work hours?"


    Vivian stood there, smug and proud. Aiden was standing behind her.


    When I ignored her, she stepped forward angrily.


    She said, "Ada, I''m talking to you. Can''t you try being useful to the Carson Group? If you came here just to ck off, then get the hell out."


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 God Re 91

    Chapter 91 Changing Testimony


    Chapter 91 Changing Testimony


    I ignored her and looked at Aiden, who was standing behind her.


    I asked, "What are you doing here?"


    The two families were basically at each other''s throats already, almost fully aware of each other''s secrets. And he still dared show up at thepany?


    Aiden shrugged. "Well, there''s so much going on at Carson Group now, and Jude..sn''t in great health. As his older cousin, I shoulde to help. No need to get mad. It was Grandpa Ewan''s decision. If you don''t believe me, call him yourself."


    I had no idea what kind of agreement Ewan had reached with the first branch of the family, but for Aiden to say that so confidently, it had to be true.


    Vivian stepped forward again, blocking my line of sight. "Ada, I''m talking to you."


    I shot back. "And what position are you speaking to me from? Ms. Miller?"


    Her personnel file still listed her as an assistant. A junior assistant, at that. She had almost no real authority. The only leverage she had was the child in her belly.


    I looked down at her lower abdomen. She instinctively ced her hands over it and stepped back a couple of paces. Judging by her reaction, she really was pregnant.


    She dered, "I''m Jude''s senior assistant now. About to be promoted. From now on, my words are Jude''s words, so you


    have to listen to me!"


    She leaned in closer, gloating, and whispered so only I could hear, "Ewan said prenatal care is important. I have to be at thepany. After all, the baby I''m carrying is Jude''s only heir. The whole Carson Group belongs to her."


    "Well, I hope all your dreamse true." I smiled at her, then took Casey by the arm and walked away.


    Her baby was just a fertilized egg, and she already had the nerve to act so arrogant.


    Three years sounds like a long time, but if Jude got healthy again, he could have thirty kids in a year if he wanted. There''d be plenty of people vying for Carson Group''s inheritance.


    "Ada, are you okay?" Casey looked at me with worry.


    I just shook my head. "Let''s work. This kind of thing doesn''t bother me. I don''t care."


    I kept telling myself I didn''t care. And the more I said it, the less angry I felt.


    The doctor had said most of my illness was caused by stress and rage. If my marriage had been happy, maybe the disease wouldn''t havee back a second time.


    Now, I just avoid everyone and everything that makes me angry. Maybe I would live a bit longer that way.


    During lunch break, I was nning to nap in my office until an unexpected visitor showed up.


    A young female officer I often saw at the police station had swapped her uniform for casual student clothes. She stood at my office door and waved at me.


    I hurried over. "Officer, what brings you here?"


    She handed me her business card. "Just call me Imogen Francis. Or Officer Francis, if you prefer. Ada, it''s your break time, right? I wanted to ask you a few things."


    I looked behind her. No other police officers were around. That felt odd.


    She quickly exined, "I''m here in a personal capacity. You don''t have to talk to me if you don''t want to."


    I smiled and shook my head. "Let me buy you lunch. The restaurant across the street is decent."


    She had defended me more than once at the station, even gave me subtle reminders. There was no way I''d turn her down. But I didn''t expect the bombshell she dropped.


    Imogen said, "That guy from yourpany, Dous, he recanted today. He said everything he did wasn''t on Vivian''s orders. He just couldn''t stand having a woman in charge. And as for framing Vivian, he imed he only did that because she was your husband''s... You know... basically trying to shift the me to reduce his sentence."


    Imogen didn''t eat much, just sipped her juice the whole time.


    She added, "He said the money he received came from a foreignpany. They paid him to steal Carson Group''s designs. Since it''s across borders, we can''t dig too deep into it."


    I wasn''t surprised. Ewan had said he''d take care of it. Of course, he wouldn''t let there be any evidence against Vivian.


    But what Imogen said next did shock me. "And Grovermitted suicide this morning."


    She continued, "Last night, he suddenly said he wanted to confess some things. I read his statement. He said the


    Chapter 91 Changing Testimony


    kidnapping of Bethany was all his idea, and that he was the one who pushed her


    off the building. The medical examiner found traces of his skin under her


    fingernails."


    She shook her head. "But that still doesn''t prove he was there at the time. Could''ve been from a previous struggle."


    Even though I knew this was probably orchestrated by Ewan, a human life was just gone. I couldn''t help feeling a chill run down my spine.


    Imogen nodded. "There are so many holes in the story. But he''s dead now..."


    "What about his daughter?" I remembered he and Vivian had a daughter together."


    Imogen looked at me with a bit of frustration. "She was picked up by some rtives. Honestly, we don''t think they''ll treat her well."


    She added, ¡°But a charity organization donated some money for the girl. It should be enough to cover her education through college."


    She locked eyes with me. "Ada, do you know what''s really going on?"


    It was a question, but her tone made it clear. She already knew I was involved.


    I lowered my eyes, avoiding her gaze, and simply shook my head. "Sorry. I don''t know."


    She probably expected that answer and didn''t press further. Before leaving, we exchanged phone numbers.


    Imogen said, "Ada, I know life''s been hard on you. But I can tell you''re a good person. If you ever remember anything, contact me anytime. Day or night." Faced with her sincere gaze, I could only nod guiltily.

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    Chapter 92 Sessor


    Chapter 92 Sessor


    All afternoon, I was a little distracted, constantly thinking about what Imogen had said.


    Ewan really was something. He didn''t just make all of Vivian''s evidence


    disappear, but even the news and online trending topics were scrubbed clean.


    After all, the mother of a Carson family child couldn''t have any kind of stain on her record.


    When Jude came into the office, I was staring nkly at myputer.


    Imogen''s face kept shing before my eyes, so passionate, so righteous.


    She knew I was in the loop, yet she never forced me to admit anything. She just quietly investigated everything on her own.


    There weren''t many police officers who liked her.


    "Ada, ready to go home? I came to pick you up." Jude''s voice was gentle, his smile soft.


    The colleagues who hadn''t left yet all turned to look at us, as if they''d seen a ghost.


    In three years of marriage, this was the first time he had evere to pick me up from work. Even though we both worked in the samepany, he had always ignored me.


    There were always other women around him, always picking him up.


    I ignored the curious stares, packed up my things, and stood up.


    But before I could walk over, Vivian had already wrapped herself around Jude''s


    arm.


    "Jude, let''s go home." She was living at the old house now, naturally feeling superior. Her words were a challenge, and she stared straight at me as she spoke.


    I acted like I didn''t see anything, sat back down, and pulled out my phone to call a


    car.


    It was peak rush hour, and the queue for rides was long. I could only wait patiently.


    Then, out of character, Jude pushed her away. "Vivian, show some respect. Go back to your home. I came to pick up my !wife."


    If he had treated her like this from the beginning, maybe I''d be moved.


    But now, all I saw was hypocrisy. I remembered how he pushed me aside in the exact same way, only to go hold Vivian.


    A lot of people who were about to leave now lingered near the door, clearly enjoying the drama.


    Vivian couldn''t maintain herposure and quickly pulled Ewan into it.


    She said, "Your grandfather told you to take good care of me. Don''t forget. If I''m in


    a bad mood, the whole Carson family would pay for it."


    She didn''t say it outright, but her meaning was clear. She was pregnant. From the way she spoke and moved, everyone could guess. Whispering began around us.


    "Ewan gave her orders? Could it be she''s really getting promoted?"


    "I doubt it. Jude came to pick up Ada, didn''t he? Maybe Vivian''s bluffing."


    "But what if she is pregnant? Look at the way she keeps holding her waist." Vivian was slim. There was no way to tell if she was pregnant just by looking. But the way she kept holding her back all day was intentional. She wanted everyone to know she was pregnant and that it was Jude''s child.


    Jude dragged her away, pulling me along too.


    Only when we reached the end of the corridor did he turn to re at her.


    He warned, "I told you to give birth quietly, and you''ll want for nothing the rest of your life. But if you stir up trouble again, or mention this to anyone, your entire Miller family will suffer."


    His expression was terrifying. Vivian instinctively stepped back. She immediately put on a pitiful face and looked at him tearfully. "Jude..."


    Jude said, "Grandpa asked you toe back to work, but I think you''re better suited for rest. Report to the logistics department tomorrow."


    If it was a reassignment based on performance


    I nced at Jude. He really was ruthless.


    Sessfully unlocked!


    ng grunt work.


    He didn''t give her a chance to respond, just dragged me downstairs.


    It wasn''t until we were in the car that his emotions finally calmed down.


    Chapter 92 Sessor


    Jude asked, "I saw that young officer talking to you at lunch, right?"


    I nodded. ¡°Yeah. We had a meal together."


    He clearly knew someone hade to see me, so I didn''t bother hiding it.


    The Carson family had the guts to do things. They shouldn''t be afraid of being investigated.


    I told him everything without exaggeration.


    Jude pulled the car over and closed his eyes for a moment. When he opened them he looked at me with a hint of sadness." Ada, don''t hate me."


    I replied, "I don''t hate you. Really."


    I looked at him gently. Through the man he was now, I could see the boy he used


    to be, the one who helped my parents, who ran around for our family. That was enough.


    He held my hand tightly, kept apologizing, saying he shouldn''t have let Vivian get pregnant.


    But I no longer cared. I had wronged him. Because I would never give him children.


    I said, "Jude, let''s go home."


    I didn''t want to hear more apologies, so I changed the subject quickly. "What''s


    Aiden doing at thepany? Did your grandfather mention anything?" Jude nodded. "Yeah."


    Jude looked a bit discouraged. He kept the car parked in the garage before finally speaking. ¡°Aiden was the sessor Grandpa trained, until I came back."


    I hadn''t known that. No wonder Aiden suddenly decided to make a move.


    Jude had been doing increasingly well in recent years. If it kept going like this, Aiden would never get a chance to take over the Carson Group.


    ''I said, "Don''t worry. You''re his real grandson. Ewan won''t give thepany to someone else. Maybe he just wants to use


    Aiden and Vivian to keep things bnced."


    That was the best exnation I could think of, and it did make some sense. But Jude just shook his head, defeated.


    He said, "Grandpa only wants a capable sessor. He cares too much about his image. If it''s his own flesh and blood, great. But if it''s not... well, he might not actually care that much."


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    Chapter 93 Take Good Care Of Him


    When Jude looked at me, there was a hint of sadness in his eyes.


    I truly hadn''t expected the Carson family to be like this. Ewan valued Jude not just because of familial ties, but because he could genuinely hold up the Carson family business.


    But I quickly came to terms with it. Apany of this size needed to be in capable hands. Otherwise, it would''ve copsed long ago.


    I thought of what Ewan had said, and of what I owed Jude. So I spoke, trying tofort Jude. "Don''t worry. I''ll help you get through this."


    "Ada!" Jude clutched my hand tightly. I awkwardly patted it and then gently pulled away.


    I said, "Alright, let''s go home first. I''m tired."


    I really was tired. Given my current condition, making it through the day was already pushing my limit.


    Jude followed closely behind me, just like he used to back in school.


    But I felt nothing. What I couldn''t stop thinking about was the child in Vivian''s belly.


    I had no appetite. Jude ordered oatmeal again. I only took a few bites before putting the spoon down.


    He looked at me with concern. "You have low blood sugar, and you''re still not eating? You''ll just pass out again."


    Amazing that he could still remember I had a condition. I gave him a small smile and said nothing.


    He handed me a box of cut fruit. "At least eat some fruit, okay? You need to take care of yourself. We''ll both work on our health, and someday... We''ll have our own child."


    He looked at me with burning hope in his eyes. I was speechless.


    I wanted to tell him. I would never give him a child.


    Not because I couldn''t. Even if I could, I wouldn''t. But in the end, I swallowed the words.


    "What are you nning to do about Vivian''s baby?" I suddenly brought it up, catching him off guard.


    Finally, he looked at me seriously. "I''ll get a DNA test as soon as possible. Technology is advanced enough now. We don''t need to wait for the baby to be born."


    I asked, "And if it''s not yours?"


    He answered, ¡°Then I definitely won''t im it. I''ll even hold her ountable." "And if it is?" I asked the question inly, with no emotion.


    Honestly, I was pretty sure the baby was his. Vivian wanted to be Mrs. Carson so badly. How could she not use the baby as leverage?


    Besides, she''d been with him long enough. I doubted they''d been that careful every time.


    Jude ran a hand through his hair in frustration. "Ada, believe me. I''ve only been with her twice, and I was drunk both times, I..


    He didn''t know how to exin and said, "I believe you."


    But I wouldn''t trust him.


    Jude wasn''t the type to deny himself pleasure. Over the past few years, the womening and going around him could form an entire beauty pageant. He''d never once restrained himself.


    And the way Vivian acted so high and mighty around me. It couldn''t be without his indulgence.


    I asked again, "If the child is yours... what are you going to do?"


    Jude mmed the table in frustration and lowered his head. "Ada, if it''s mine, I''ll take the responsibility."


    I knew his im was not referring to me.


    Ewan had said I couldn''t mention divorce until the child was three. So what about after that?


    Once the child turned three, Jude would want more children, and that would be my cue to step aside.


    I nodded expressionlessly. It was his child. Of course he should take care of it.


    Jude looked up, his voice slightly choked. "Yo


    Sessfully unlocked!its. All I had was my grandmother. Even the


    child is Vivian''s, I can''t bear for him to grow up withoirt a family. Ada, canyou understand that?"


    "Jude, I can." I really could.


    Back in school, it was just him and his grandmother. Even though I was his wealthy girlfriend, he never once touched my


    money.


    Chapter 93 Take Good Care Of Him


    Later, just when his career was starting to improve, his grandmother fell ill, and I wanted to break up.


    So when he said this now, Ipletely understood. If he could turn his back on his own child, that would be the scary part.


    *****


    The next day, Jude and I arrived at work together, and the eyes of many coworkers immediately turned toward us.


    Ellen sidled up to me, looking all mysterious. "Ada, Vivian got reassigned to logistics!"


    I nodded. Jude had told me yesterday, so I wasn''t surprised.


    Ellen looked excited. "Yesterday she said she was pregnant, but now some coworkers are saying she''s just faking it!"


    She added, "If she were really pregnant, why would Mr. Carson still let here


    to work? I think he''s fed up with her."


    I just smiled and said nothing. I didn''t want to talk about it anymore.


    Without Vivian causing drama, my work had be a lot smoother.


    But I didn''t expect Aiden to stick his nose into the marketing department. He even wanted to take charge of the design team''s work.


    Especially on the Elitara Group project, he brazenly dered that he would take full control.


    "I know Mrs. Carson has been handling this all along," he said with a false smile. ¡°But Grandpa asked me to oversee the key projects. I''m just following orders, right?"


    Aiden was using Ewan to pressure me.


    A few of the design team colleagues stood up, visibly upset. I held up my hand, signaling them to sit down.


    Then I turned to Aiden. "You understand design? Great. Then you draw. I''ll assist you."


    I added, "You know about how a lot of past designs went missing, right? So why don''t youe help us do the work now?"


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    Chapter 94 Don''t Interfere With Me


    Of course Aiden didn''t understand design. And there was only one director in the design department, me. Plus, our entire team was united now, so there was no way he could wedge himself in. He had no choice but to slink away


    I didn''t know if he''d goin to Ewan, but I wouldn''t back down.


    If I did, those two key departments would fall under Aiden''s control, and Jude''s position would be hanging by a thread.


    Before I got off work, I received a call from Pe. She''d already arranged everything


    She eximed, "Ada, your good luck has arrived!"


    She was practically buzzing on the other end of the line for ten minutes before finally dropping the news. Her cousin was working on anti-cancer medication overseas. He had returned recently.


    She said, "He got back yesterday, and I just found out today. I''ve already got him locked in. We''re having dinner tonight!"


    Before I could even say yes, she sent me the address.


    Thinking this might actually be a turning point, I agreed to meet them.


    When I told Jude I was seeing Pe, he looked a little annoyed.


    He asked, "Why are you still meeting her? I thought you two didn''t get along?"


    "Who told you that? We''ve been close since school." I spoke without a trace of guilt.


    Jude just gave me a helpless look. In the end, I had to say Pe was a major client of thepany and couldn''t be neglected. Only then did he reluctantly


    agree.


    Now that we were putting on the act of a loving couple, going to and from work together every day, I was honestly suffocating.


    Getting a bit of personal space had me feeling way better.


    When I arrived at the restaurant, I immediately saw a man in a striped shirt and sses sitting beside Pe.


    No matter what she said, he kept the same deadpan face, which clearly left Pe feeling defeated.


    Pe said, "Edmond, you''re back in my territory now. Can you at least smile?"


    "I sell knowledge, not entertainment." The moment I walked over, this poker-faced guy threw out that line. I nearly stumbled.


    Pe cheerfully waved at me. "Ada, you should''ve waited till we were done eating before showing up! Do you even need to clock in at Carson Group? Who dares say anything if you slip out?"


    I gave her a helpless look, then turned to the man beside her. "This is the doctor you mentioned?"


    "Edmond, my cousin. He was doing cancer drug research in Kasend. Behold, the man who holds your fate in his hands!" Pe beamed like sunshine, while I just smiled awkwardly.


    Edmond didn''t say anything. He simply started eating.


    Pe said, "Hurry up and eat. My cousin''s brain needs nutrients. Or it''ll crash like a system error."


    Strangely, he didn''t get mad, just nodded in agreement. Their back-and-forth was kind of funny, and I felt more rxed. But we were only halfway through the meal when Pe got a call, a friend of hers had run into trouble. She rushed off, leaving just me and Edmond.


    He didn''t show the slightest difort, which helped me rx too.


    He asked about my illness, my family medical history, and the possibility of a second surgery.


    The conversation was going well until a man suddenly grabbed my arm.


    "Well, well, isn''t this the bald beauty? The bossdy of Carson Group? I''ve seen your video before." He reeked of alcohol, clearly drunk.


    His friend quickly pulled him back, apologizing profusely, but the man wouldn''t give up. He kept tugging at me.


    The drunk man said, "Come on, Baldie, why are you still wearing a wig? Let me see how you really look."


    As he reached to yank off my wig, Edmond grabbed his wrist. Before the drunk could say a word, Edmond punched him right in the abdomen.


    It didn''t look like much of a punch, but the mar dropped like stone His


    Sessfully unlocked!


    was soaked in sweat, unable to even


    1. ut.


    I stared nkly at Edmond. The drunk''s friends looked equally stonbed Edmond calmly wiped his hands with a wet napkin. "His liver''s not doing well. That area''s highly sensitive to pain. Take him


    to the hospital. Value your life. Don''t go knocking on death''s door, and don''t harass women."


    The group scurried away in a panic. Someone nearby even pped.


    Chapter 94 Don''t Interfere With Me


    Edmond looked at me as if nothing had happened. ¡°So, your aunt''s cancer was in which stage, again?"


    I stared at his poker face in disbelief and continued answering.


    Dinner felt like a thriller, but when he said he''d help me review my medical


    records ande up with a treatment n, I finally exhaled.


    Still, that face of his looked like he might reject me at any second.


    What I didn''t expect was to get a call from Ewan before I even made it home. He


    told me toe to the Carson residence immediately.


    I didn''t know what was going on until Pe messaged me.


    It turned out that someone had filmed the whole scene of Edmond punching that guy, and the video had gone viral.


    I knew I couldn''t afford any more scandals right now, so I kept a low profile when I arrived at the old mansion.


    When I arrived, I didn''t expect to see Vivian sitting next to Ewan. The moment they saw me, they started their little duet of scolding.


    "Ada, you represent the Carson family. You should know how to behave yourself."


    "Ada, why are you going out with strange men again? Aren''t you causing trouble for Jude?"


    Watching them perform their little show, I suddenly lost all patience.


    Ignoring Jude''s eye signal to me, I directly retorted, "If you want me to keep ying the role of Mrs. Carson, then stay out of my personal life."


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    95 Three Years


    Maybe no one expected me to be this firm, even Ewan looked a bit surprised.


    Vivian, on the other hand, looked pleased. I talked back to Ewan, and he became fed up with me. This was exactly what she wanted.


    Before Ewan could blow up, I quickly exined, "A college ssmate invited me to dinner. Her cousin just returned from abroad."


    I continued, "Last time I got caught cheating by Bethany, that drunk guy called me


    a ¡®Baldie'' and tried to rip off my wig. Her cousin helped me out. What else do you want to ask?"


    I added, "Should we summon Bethany''s ghost to find out who ordered her to frame me and ruin my name?"


    Ewan wasn''t that impulsive. Looking at Vivian sitting next to him, I had my suspicions.


    Sure enough, his face darkened. Even his gaze toward her grew less friendly.


    "Jude, listen to what Ada is saying. How could she talk to me like that!" Vivian looked scared and tried to get closer to Jude, but he pulled away.


    Instead, Jude got up and came to stand beside me, taking my hand.


    He said, "Grandpa, if it''s just a misunderstanding, we''ll head back now."


    He didn''t hesitate. Just pulled me out with him.


    Jude didn''t say a word the whole way back, but his tightly pressed lips made it obvious. He had something on his mind. He wouldn''t bring it up, and I didn''t bother to exin.


    Whether he believed me or not. I didn''t care.


    But in the end, he cou


    hold it in. "I thought you were meeting Pe?"


    I replied, "Her cousin just got back here. We had dinner together. Pe had to leave early."


    That exnation clearly caught him off guard. After a pause, he muttered, "That cousin of hers doesn''t seem like a good guy. He knocked someone down with one punch."


    I stared at him, speechless. Did he forget that he used to knock guys out with one punch back in college?


    I sighed. ¡°He''s a doctor. That guy had liver issues. He didn''t even hit him that hard."


    Then I realized there was no point in exining, so I shut up. But Jude clearly didn''t believe me. He kept probing.


    By the time we got home, I finally snapped. "Jude! He''s a doctor. I''m dying. He''s helping me with treatment. Does that satisfy you?"


    He froze for a second, then looked irritated. "Ada, why are you always like this? Is cursing yourself supposed to be funny?"


    He added, "Even if you''re upset, you don''t need to say things like that. Haven''t you heard of a self-fulfilling prophecy?"


    I closed my eyes. I didn''t want to keep arguing. I went straight to the guest room.


    I''d reminded him many times. He''d had many chances to find out about my condition, but he didn''t.


    He had time to track down the wedding ring I pawned. It was time to find out which hospital I''d gone to, but he never bothered to check what department I visited.


    If he didn''t care, then I was done.


    When Jude knocked on my door, I was already fed up.


    I said, "Don''t bother. I''m really tired. I''m taking a few days off from work."


    He stood outside the door for a bit, then finally muttered, "Okay."


    The next morning, after Jude left for work, I went straight to the private hospital where Edmond worked.


    His family came from a long line of doctors, and they ran several private hospitals in the country.


    Yesterday I told him I wanted discreet treatment. He''d already arranged everything.


    After reviewing my medical records, Edmond''s expression finally shifted.


    "You''re lucky and unlucky," he said. "Second-time Sessfully unlocked! ple make it through surgery again. But also, few people rpse twice to begin with." He continued, "The cancer cells can be destroyed, but the treatment damages your body too. But the new drug I was researching in Kasend could help patients like you. Do you want to try it?"


    I nodded immediately. Even a sliver of hope, I wouldn''t let it go.


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    Chapter 95 Three Years


    I thought of what Pe had said earlier, and carefully asked, "She said you were developing a new drug."


    He replied, "That one''s for third-time rpses. Still in clinical trials."


    I was speechless. Hope and despair reallye hand-in-hand.


    My eyes fell to my t stomach. I hesitated and asked, "Will I rpse again?"


    He said, "Not necessarily. Let''s try controlling it with medication for now."


    Lasked again, "Will I still be able to have children?"


    Edmond adjusted his sses. "Yes. But I can''t guarantee the child won''t be affected."


    His blunt delivery was infuriating, but I didn''t dare argue with him.


    He said, "If your body recovers well, you might be able to conceive in three years."


    "Would the child inherit cancer?" That was the question I feared most.


    Edmond looked at my file again. "Your case is unique. There''s no conclusive evidence proving cancer is hereditary, but a family history significantly increases risk, like in your case."


    He didn''t sugarcoat a single word.


    Maybe because he knew I didn''t have any family left, his bluntness didn''t hurt as much. It just helped me prepare myself. Finally, Edmond prescribed medication and looked at me seriously.


    He said, "If you''re thinking about having children, take care of your body. Be careful with the meds. I''m doing gene research. I''ll try my best to make sure your child doesn''t suffer the same fate."


    His words gave me a sliver of hope again, only for him to crush it right after.


    He added, "But I said after three years, and only if there''s no rpse. In your current condition, having a child is a death sentence. Don''t even think about it."


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    Chapter 96 Taking Charge


    I didn''t really want a child right now, but after losing all my family, I finally


    understood how Jude must''ve felt back then.


    At least he still had a grandmother who treated him like her own. But I had nothing left.


    If I could have someone I loved, or maybe a child of my own, that would be enough. That would feel like home.


    I remembered hearing that one could do IVF overseas, and there were sperm banks. That thought sparked a new kind of hope in me.


    I didn''t really need a man to have children.


    What I needed now was to support Jude, take care of my body, and quietly investigate the truth behind my father''s death. When I got back home, I was surprised to find Jude hadn''t gone to work. He was actually in the kitchen, cooking. He greeted, "You''re home?"


    I responded, "I came back to get some documents. Saw you weren''t feeling well, so I thought I''d cook for you."


    I nced toward the door and noticed the shoes he''d left. He''d worn sneakers this morning. He must''ve gone out to buy groceries.


    I was so focused on going to the hospital earlier. Ipletely missed the small things.


    He asked, "You went out? Didn''t you say you weren''t feeling well?"


    He was carefully watching my face, trying to read me. But I didn''t want to say anything.


    I told him everything yesterday. He just didn''t believe me.


    He looked like he wanted to ask more, so I quickly changed the subject.


    I said, "If you''re not at thepany, what if Aiden stirs up trouble? What was Ewan thinking? Does he really want you twopeting? And that Elitara Group project, he tried to meddle again. I blocked him, but I doubt he''ll stop."


    Vivian could only cause me trouble on a petty level, but Aiden was a different story.


    Ewan bringing him into thepany was a deration of war.


    I didn''t know what deal the two of them had struck, but I was certain Aiden wouldn''t have returned just to help.


    Jude''s expression turned serious at the mention of work.


    He said, "Grandpa said he''s just here to help. I can''t argue much. I''m not the majority shareholder."


    I nodded. Most of the Carson Group''s shares were still in Ewan''s hands.


    Even the 3% shares he gave me when we got married were just nominal. The condition had always been that I''d only get the transfer if I had a child.


    I said, ¡°Then start by checking the subcontractors. We can''t afford another Skydiver Material mess."


    That incident might''ve been dealt with for now, but who knew when another problem would crop up?


    As long as Vivian stayed in thepany, these issues would keep popping up.


    He replied, ''Don''t worry. I already sent people to investigate. Nothing will go wrong."


    Knowing he''d taken precautions made me feel a bit better.


    Then I brought up the current project. I asked cautiously, "What about the overpass? Carson Group can''t handle a project of that scale alone. Elitara Group''s team is capable, and they have funds. What do you think?"


    The design had passed the review, but the construction would be a huge undertaking. Several permits were still pending. Carson Group had too many projects going on already. A partnership with Dorian would be ideal.


    But I knew Jude had a mental block about that, so I wasn''t expecting him to agree easily.


    Sure enough, he immediately rejected the idea. "I''m not working with Dorian. This project is thest time."


    His tone was a bit sulky, like he was making a point. They were in the same business circle. Not working together was wishful thinking.


    But Jude looked annoyed. He red at me and said, "I''m not giving Dorian any chance to get close to you. He''s been after you from the start. Even in school, he tried to get Me conty and see for your looks."


    Sessfully unlocked!


    I sighed and removed my wig. Jude''s expressio


    I shrugged. "See? Even you flinched. What do you think he''d do? There''s not much beauty left to covet. So rx.


    "Still not okay?" Jude quickly put the wig back on me. It was always crooked, of course.


    In the end, he gave up and pulled me into a hug.


    Chapter 96 Taking Charge


    He said, "Ada, please. Don''t be with him. You promised me no divorce."


    "Rx. I''m not the type to cheat in a marriage." I said it with no emotion.


    I could feel his body tense, and then he gently pushed me away.


    His eyes were full of hurt. "You still can''t forgive me, can you?"


    I asked back, "What do you think? If you were me, would you forgive yourself?"


    After that, I turned to go back to my room.


    This peace between us was already me giving my limit.


    Jude stepped in front of me, blocking my way.


    His phone rang. I breathed a silent sigh of relief. Except I didn''t expect the problem to be real.


    The manager of the factory that we had agreed to cooperate with ran off with the money. They couldn''t deliver any materials.


    He cursed, "Damn it. Right when several sites are waiting for materials?"


    I''d warned Jude before, never rely on just one supplier. One couldn''t put all the eggs in one basket.


    "Ada, I need to go out of town. See if I can find a new supplier," he said.


    "No. I''ll go." I stopped him. "Aiden''s at thepany. I don''t trust him. You need to


    be there."


    I added, "I''ll find us a supplier. Trust me."


    ¿Ú

 God Re 97

    Chapter 97 Torrential Rain


    I knew how urgent the situation was, so I went back inside right away to pack my bags. Ellen needed toe with me on the trip.


    I had already contacted every supplier in the province, and it was clear. None of them could deliver in bulk. We had no choice but to look out of state.


    At first, Jude did not want me to go alone. But with Aiden stirring up trouble agained messing up several projects, Jude had no choice but to stay behind.


    Unfortunately, even after we checked nearby provinces, there were only a couple of factories that could ship small quantities, and at a higher cost. The numbers just did not add up.


    While I was stressing out over what to do next, I got a call from Dorian. He had a supply source, and the price was surprisingly low.


    "There''s a catch," Dorian said. "The goods are in Seainwood. Shipping''s going to be more expensive, and transportation''s not exactly easy. Since it''s our first time working with them, we''ll need to see the materials in person. When can you go?" Seainwood was mostly mountainous terrain. Movingrge amounts of construction material would mean taking rough mountain roads, which definitely pushed the transport cost up.


    After running the numbers, including shipping and expected loss during transit, I figured it was still worth checking out." Dorian, please get in touch with the supplier for me. I''m willing to go see the materials myself."


    "Great. I already talked to them before. Let''s go together. I''ll meet you at the airport tomorrow." Before I could say no, he hung up.


    I thought about messaging him on WhatsApp, but ended up putting my phone down. Truth be told, going into a remote area felt a lot safer with someone I knew.


    It took some real effort, but we finally made it to Seainwood. And only then did I truly understand what difficult transportation meant.


    The mountain roads were a nightmare. After hours on a coach bus, we still had to ride a tractor for over an hour just to get to the factory.


    By the time we arrived, Ellen and I were both on the verge of throwing up.


    The driver chuckled at the sight of us. "You just got to puke a few more times and you''ll get used to it. This is way better than before. Back when there was no tractor, you''d have no idea how long it''d take to get in."


    The ce did have a working mine, and thend was spacious. Andbor costs were low. But with that kind of road, getting anything out of there would be a huge pain.


    I started second-guessing everything when Dorian caught me by the arm. "This ce has good materials, and it''s supported by the local government. It''s a solid option for a long-term partnership."


    He added, ¡°Elitara Group doesn''t have high demand right now. Otherwise, I would''ve already signed a deal with them. If our twopanies share shipping, we could cut the cost in half. Sound fair?"


    I gave him a grateful nod. Honestly, I knew Elitara Group''s needs weren''t enough to justify this whole trip. But after seeing the materials in person, I was genuinely impressed.


    It was the same quality, yet half the price. I figured I could live with higher shipping costs if it meant saving overall.


    That night, I called Jude on video chat. He looked annoyed the second he saw my room. "You''re staying in that dump? Does it leak? What about wild animals? Wolves? Tigers? I heard spiders out there are bigger than your head.¡±


    I rolled my eyes. "With all the tech we have these days, can you stop acting like the mountains are prehistoric?"


    Jude gave a sheepish smile and kept ncing behind me until he spotted Ellen. Only then did he rx a little.


    "You two be extra careful out there," he said. "The factory''s offering a decent price, but for a long-term deal, they really need to handle shipping on their end."


    Jude and I were on the same page. We could not fly out here every single time. It would be way too time-consuming and not worth the effort.


    But from the looks of it, the factory was already stretched thin just producing the goods and locking down partnerships. That dirt road outside was probably staying the way it was


    Sessfully unlocked!


    Just as Jude and I started discussing whether it might be possible to get the road fixed, and maybe even use that to negotiate a better price, someone knocked on my door.


    "Ada, are you guys still awake?" Dorian''s voice came through.


    Jude''s sleepy face immediately lit up with rage. "You wouldn''t let mee with you, but you''re sharing a trip with him?"


    Chapter 97 Torrential Rain


    Ellen had already opened the door, and Dorian''s upper body was clearly visible on


    camera.


    I looked at Jude helplessly. "If it weren''t for Dorian, I wouldn''t have even found this supplier. Without him-


    Suddenly, the signal dropped. No matter how many times I tried to call him back, there was nothing. Ellen, who had just been scrolling through videos, also lost connection.


    "Wait? There''s no signal here? I thought we had WiFi." Just as I was about to try again, a sudden thunderstorm hit. The next second, rain poured down in sheets, lightning shed, and the lights inside started flickering until they finally went out. "Ada, I''m scared. It''s so dark." Ellen clung to me. I rubbed her back tofort her.


    "Don''t go out. I''ll check what''s going on," Dorian said before dashing off. It took him over ten minutes to return. "Grab your stuff, quick. We''ll stay at a viger''s ce tonight. Landslides hit the roads, and the way back ispletely gone.


    "This ce isn''t safe anymore. We need to go now."


    Without any hesitation, I started packing right away. Ellen, on the other hand, looked like she might cry. "Ada, are we going to die out here?"


    "No. I won''t let anything happen to you. I''d rather die than see you get hurt. You''ll


    be fine." I had meant to calm her down, but right then, someone flicked my forehead.


    Dorian red at me."Watch your mouth."


    The look he gave me made me bite my tongue instantly. Honestly, I always ended


    up tempting fate just by opening my mouth.

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    Chapter 98 Stay Alert


    Chapter 98 Stay Alert


    We finally made it to the vigers'' house. The man was warm and weing, and the two-story home was actually pretty nice. But I got sick.


    I had already been weak; and after days of nonstop travel, the fever hit hard and would not go down. I started to lose sense of things.


    When Jude called, Ellen picked up. I had no idea what they said, but I could tell he was freaking out.


    Two dayster, the rain finally stopped, but my fever still lingered. Dorian didn''t hesitate. He helped me onto a tractor and said, "You need an IV, now. If this keeps up, you''ll fry your brain."


    He borrowed an oversized coat from a viger, wrapped me in it, then held me close in his arms.


    I looked up at his profile, and all of a sudden, I thought of Jude. Back in junior year, I had pulled three all-nighters in a row to finish a paper. In the end, I copsed. I could barely remember it, but I knew Jude had carried me to the campus clinic, his face full of panic.


    For a second, it felt just like that moment again, Jude''s anxious face, that raw urgency. I reached up and touched Dorian''s chin. My voice came out soft and dazed. "Jude, you really need to shave. You look awful."


    Dorian paused for a moment, then pulled me in tighter. When I woke up, I was staring at a chipped wall. I felt lost for a moment until I saw the stubble on a shadowed jawline and the dark circles under Dorian''s eyes. That was when it all came


    back to me.


    "Dorian, what happened to me?" I said.


    "Your body gave out. You''ve been burning up from exhaustion," he said, rolling his eyes as he gently pushed me back onto the bed and tucked the nket around me. "Keep this up and you''ll end up right back here a third time."


    A slightly balding doctor walked in and gave me a quick check-up. His tone turned stern as he turned to Dorian. "Your wife''s already had two surgeries, and you''re still letting her run around like this? You look well-off enough with your fancy coat. How about letting her rest for once, huh?"


    I opened my mouth to exin, but Dorian stood up and bowed slightly before I could say a word. "I''m sorry. This is all on me. I should''ve taken better care of her."


    The doctor''s face softened a bit at that. "A rpse like this is no joke. All we can do here is give her basic treatment. If you want real tests, take her to the city."


    Then he turned to me."You strike me as a tough one, probably the workaholic type. But listen. Healthes first. No more pushing yourself. Rest from today."


    The town doctor was strict, but he had a good heart. He made sure to cover everything before he left. His wife even packed me a portion of their meal.


    I stared at the food, not sure if I could stomach it. Dorian chuckled beside me. "Not hungry?"


    "Would you like to have it?" I said hesitantly.


    He didn''t even blink. The next second, he put on a pair of gloves, peeled off the skin, and handed me the lean meat. "You don''t like skin, right? Eat this," he said casually.


    I took it, a little shy and stunned, and started nibbling slowly.


    He didn''t mind eating the rest himself. But at the mention of the transport problem, I was in trouble again.


    "I''ll help you get the materials back. Jude can cover the transport fee," Dorian said. "By the way, should I tell him about your condition?"


    Dorian had already finished his meal and was cleaning up.


    "Don''t," I said before he continued. "Just tell him I''m still overseeing things at the factory."


    Dorian nodded without argument. The next morning, once he was sure I was okay, he started making arrangements for the trucks.


    Meanwhile, I sent Jude a video message. I told him it had rained so hard that there was no signal, and that I hade down with a fever, but nothing serious. He panicked right away and didn''t question why I was with Dorian anymore.


    "You sure I shouldn''te over? I really don''t feel right just


    you''re like this," he said.


    kay, really." I shook my head.


    Sessfully unlocked!


    "No need. I''ll stay a few more days to supervise, ther


    It almost felt like we were back to how things used to be when we were first


    married. Not perfect, but at least we could talk without fighting.


    Then Vivian popped up on the screen again, in our home. I went stone-cold.


    TE


    Chapter 98 Stay Alert


    "Jude, where did you buy those cheese tartsst time? Baby''s been craving them," she said, ncing sweetly at him, then directly at me. "Ada, I heard you went to Seainwood with Mr. Huxley? No wonder you''ve been gone so long."


    I hung up immediately. No matter how many WhatsApp messages Jude sent or how many times he tried to call, I ignored


    them all.


    It burned in my chest, but I knew the truth. Vivian was the apple of the Carson family''s eye now. Jude had to y along. I shut my eyes, breathed deeply, and tried to calm myself.


    Even after giving birth, she might not be leaving anytime soon. That would be when got divorced.


    I had thought Seainwood would be all about work. But two days in a row, I noticed someone sneaking around near my


    room.


    At first, I brushed it off. It was just a nurse, and nothing weird. On the third day, she showed up again, this time pushing a cart and saying she was here to give me an injection. That was when I got suspicious.


    "Where''s Nina today?" I narrowed my eyes, watching her carefully. Her gaze behind those thick sses darted nervously. "Nina had something to take care of. I''m just filling in." She grabbed my arm, patted it a few times, but the hand holding the needle was shaking.


    Suddenly, someone caught her wrist. Dorian''s voice was low and dangerous. "Don''t move. Who the hell are you?"


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 God Re 99

    Chapter 99 The Danger


    Just then, Nina, the nurse who often gave me my shots, walked into the room. "Winnie, what are you doing here giving injections? Did you even report this?"


    "Nina, 1-1 just-" Winnie was already flustered and barely able to string her words together.


    Meanwhile, Dorian gripped her wrist tightly and showed no sign of letting go. "I just saw you pull something out of your pocket and inject it into the vial. Hand it over."


    His voice was ice cold. Without giving her a chance to protest, he reached straight into her coat pocket. To everyone''s surprise, he actually found a small vial.


    When Nina took it from him, her face went pale. "Winnie, the patient is allergic to this medication. Did you not know that?" All eyes fell on Winnie. She dropped to the floor and burst into tears. "I''m sorry. I-I didn''t know-"


    I was already starting to piece things together. It was obvious someone had used her.


    I softened my tone as much as I could. "Winnie, right? We don''t even know each other. You wouldn''t want to hurt me. Someone paid you to do this, right?"


    Winnie nodded at first, then quickly shook her head as if caught between fear and guilt. "Ms. Watson, I swear I didn''t know anything about this."


    I kept my voice gentle. "Well, you never actually gave me the shot, so technically, this counts as an attempted crime that you didn''t go through with. If you tell us who''s behind this, you''ll be okay."


    ¡°I''ll testify,¡± Nina added. ¡°Clearly, someone pressured you into this. It wasn''t your choice."


    I knew right away that Winnie was just an intern. Theck of a proper name badge gave it away. In a small town like this, odds were she didn''t have much of an educational background either. If word got out, no hospital would ever take her on again.


    Winnie hesitated for a few seconds, then finally pulled out her phone and handed it to me. "This number added me on WhatsApp and sent the money. The first time, she asked me to add a little vitamin C to your shot. Then it was some glucose. She paid me both times."


    "And this third time, she asked you to add something lethal?" I looked at the rabbit icon on WhatsApp and immediately knew who it was.


    If I remembered correctly, that was Vivian''s private WhatsApp avatar. She probably thought I was as good as dead and did not even bother switching her ount.


    "I just wanted to make some extra cash. I didn''t know you were allergic," said Winnie.


    "Bullshit. Did you not even read the patient''s file?" Nina was furious and lunged at her like she was ready to call the cops right then and there.


    I stopped her. After all, I was still alive. Plus, Vivian was under the Carson family''s protection. If this became public, someone would try to smooth it over. It was better to collect all the evidence and hit her with everything at once.


    I asked Winnie to hand over the transaction records and screenshots of the WhatsApp chats. Then I had her write down exactly what happened, sign it, and press her fingerprint on it. After that, Nina took her out and give her a warning, nothing


    more.


    Dorian had been standing silently by my bed the entire time. Once the two nurses left, he finally spoke. "Vivian?"


    I nodded.


    "You''re not going to report this?" he said.


    I nodded again.


    "Why?" He sounded puzzled.


    I looked up at him and let out a silent sigh. "She''s pregnant with Jude''s baby."


    Dorian said nothing. He knew as well as I did how important that child would be to families like the Carson family and the Huxley family.


    He pulled up a chair and sat beside my bed, reaching out as if to take my hand. I pretended to fix my hair, just enough to avoid his touch.


    "Ada, I''ll protect you. You don''t need to be afrai


    Sessfully unlocked!


    "I''m not afraid." I lowered my head, avoiding his eyes.


    My situation was soplicated. Thest thing I wanted to do was rack up emotional debts.


    The next day, I booked a flight back to the city and returned to the office with Ellen.


    Chapter 99 The Danger


    The moment Vivian saw me, she shot daggers at me with her eyes. "Well, look who''s back. Mrs. Carson sure knows how to enjoy herself, off on a business trip for over two weeks without caring for anything."


    "Oh no, did my trip make your job harder? So sorry to hear that. I guess theyer of dust on my desk proves it, huh?" I mocked with a sneer.


    Jude walked in just then and immediately stepped in front of me, shielding me. "Vivian, why aren''t you at your desk? What are you doing here?"


    "Jude?" Vivian''s voice turned soft and wounded as she looked at him, then threw a re full of spite. "She was gone all that time with another man. Who knows what they did? And you''re still taking her side? You know how I-"


    She cut herself off mid-sentence, but one hand had already drifted to her lower belly.


    I gave her a silent little apuse in my mind. Pregnancy meant ten months of immunity. That baby was basically her get- out-of-jail-free card.


    Sure enough, Jude noticed the gesture. His lips moved like he wanted to say something, but he held back.


    Vivian gave me a sweet, poisonous smile. "Must''ve been fun out there with Mr. Huxley. So fun you forgot toe back, huh?"


    Jude had already been suspicious about Dorian and me. Now his expression darkened even more.


    I nced at Vivian, then at Jude, his face twisted with rage, and smiled. ¡°Yeah, I figured if I stayed away, you two could enjoy yourselves at my ce. Sound about right?


    "But you should really be careful. I''ve heard that the first three months of pregnancy are tricky. Better safe than sorry. It would be a shame if those sweet moments cost you your kid."


    I snapped my fingers toward her belly, then turned and walked upstairs without another word.


    "Ada, wait," Jude barked my name behind me, his voice full of fury. But I did not even slow my pace.


    I kept reminding myself, just a little longer. Once the baby was born, I could finally walk away.


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 God Re 100

    Chapter 100 The Trap


    Chapter 100 The Trap


    Jude called me countless times, even rang the office line, asking me to go to his office.


    Ellen gave me a troubled look. "Ada, maybe you should go see what he wants?"


    "Tell him I''m busy. If he needs something, he cane down here." My fingers flew across the keyboard, not stopping for a second.


    Earlier, Vivian had cornered me in the lobby, clearly trying to make a scene and let everyone know she was pregnant, and that the baby was Jude''s. But she did not have the guts to say it outright, so she tried provoking me instead.


    Too bad I kept my voice so low that only the two of them could hear. No one else around had any clue what we were really talking about.


    And if Jude was mad? I could not care less.


    Since he had the nerve to bring her into our home while I was out there working myself to the bone, trying to close deals, he should''ve expected me to cause trouble. He had no right to be angry.


    He still picked me up and dropped me off every day, but refused to speak a single word to me. I weed the silence.


    The supplies arrived, and construction was finally underway. On the surface, Carson Group seemed to be moving in the right direction. Unfortunately, Aiden was not on board.


    Aiden came storming into the design department, insisting on getting involved with the overpass project I was leading.


    "No way, I told you. If you have the skills, do the design yourself. If not, stay out of it. Leave now." My voice was cold. I was done ying nice.


    Everyone in thepany knew we didn''t get along, and frankly, I did not care.


    Aiden was Ewan''s nt. And I was not about to let him meddle in such a major project.


    The heir to the Carson family needed results to prove his worth. That sess would either belong to Aiden or Jude, and between the two, I would rather help Jude get the win.


    Still, Ewan forced Aiden in, assigning him as a supervisor, though without any authority to make decisions.


    Even so, Aiden managed to tank several negotiations by causing trouble. I was just about to lose it when Jude stepped in.


    "Let''s go home. We''ll talk there." He practically dragged me out of the office. Back home, I chugged an entire tub of yogurt just to cool down.


    Jude sat nearby, looking like he wanted to say something but could not bring himself to.


    "Spit it out." I shot him a nce and cracked open another yogurt.


    "There are plenty of firms we can work with. You don''t like his choice, and he doesn''t like yours. How are we ever going to get started?" he said.


    I was furious. "Who knows design better, me or him? Who''s the director, me or him? I designed that overpass. I lead this team. Just because the Carson family pays me doesn''t mean I owe you blind obedience."


    When it came to work, I stood my ground, always.


    Letting an amateur call the shots over professionals only led to wasted time and doomed projects.


    Aiden kept pushing to bring in some unqualified buddies of his. That was crossing a line.


    Jude nodded. "Okay, I get it. But we still need the right partner."


    "Elitara Group. They''re qualified, experienced, and they have low-cost suppliers. They should be our top pick," I offered.


    Mentioning it made my blood boil. Anyone could see they were the best fit. But Jude refused. Aiden kept interfering.


    Dorian even brought his team several times, but no one would even let them through the door.


    "No. I said we''re not working with Dorian." Jude dropped onto the couch, arms crossed,pletely ignoring everything I said. No matter how much I exined, he would not budge.


    ''No way. That guy''s clearly into you. Do you think that trip to the mountains was all business? I''m not buying it." Once Jude dug in, there was no persuading him, not even God.


    Just as I was about to blow up again, his phone rang two o


    Sessfully unlocked!


    un, don''t be scared. I''m heading to the hospital


    He barely answered with a couple of yeahs, the hatup off the right now. I''ll be there in no time."


    He bolted for the door, not even bothering to look back or say goodbye.


    I stood there, all the fight draining out of me. In that moment, I honestly could not remember what I was even trying so hard


    Chapter 100 The Trap for anymore.


    When Dorian called, I was still staring into space. It took me a second to realize he was asking me to grab dinner and talk about the project. I agreed right away.


    This project was my pride and joy. It was the product of my whole team''s effort. Even if I no longer cared about Jude, I owed it to the project to find the best possible partner. Maybe this would be myst major work at Carson Group.


    When I arrived at the restaurant, the private room was filled with an odd, lingering


    scent.


    "Why this room?" I asked.


    It was the farthest one back, right next to the rear exit. Dorian usually avoided this


    one.


    He looked a bit apologetic. "Who knew? The ce is booming today. Every other room was taken. This was the only one


    left."


    I did not overthink it and sat down.


    But after a few minutes, I started feeling dizzy. Dorian''s face was flushed, way too flushed.


    Then it hit me. The smell was off. I pinched the inside of my arm, hard, to keep myself alert. Fumbling with my phone, I called Pe.


    My vision was swimming. I barely managed to say, "Help."


    Not long after, the door burst open. Thest thing I saw was Pe and Edmond rushing in. Then everything went ck. Someone had set me up. But I never imagined they would go this far. That very night, a video of me and a man in that private room, making love, was posted online.


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