After the SAT, a jaw-dropping piece of news swept through Midtown High School.

Esmeralda Pollock—the straight-A student—turned in blank answer sheets for every section!

Word got around fast, making its way straight to Esmeralda's dilapidated home.

"I busted my ass to pay for your education, so you could get into a good college! And this is how you repay me? Turn in blank papers? You worthless piece of shit! I'm gonna beat the living daylights out of you!" Easton Pollock, reeking of alcohol, eyes blazing red, swung his belt across Esmeralda's bony back.

Esmeralda knelt on the cold floor, gritting her teeth and bearing the pain in silence.

As the belt was about to strike again, the door burst open, and a tall figure charged in against the light.

"Stop!" His voice was cold as steel, each word dripping with authority.

Intoxicated, Easton squinted at the well-dressed and remarkably refined young man and hissed, "Who the hell are you? How dare you meddle in my affairs?"

The boy glanced at Easton coldly and spoke evenly, "I'm Magnus Stafford, heir to the Stafford Group. Esmeralda is my girlfriend, and the blank answer sheets were my idea. My parents have planned for me to study abroad after graduation, and Esmeralda will go with me. Since the SAT results are irrelevant, I asked her to just go through the motions. There's no point in wasting time."

Magnus Stafford?

The heir to the prestigious Stafford family? The prodigy who was at the top of his own game?

Easton seemed to instantly sober up, his scowl melting into an obsequious smile. "Well, I'll be damned! Sorry you had to see that, Mr. Stafford! I let my anger get the better of me!

"I've fed her, clothed her, and sent her to school, hoping she would achieve something! Seeing her ruin her own future just drove me mad! That was why I punished her. If I had known you took a shine to her, I wouldn't have laid a finger on her! My apologies!"

A hint of disgust flashed in Magnus's eyes. Ignoring Easton's rambling, he pulled out a stack of cash from his wallet and threw it on the ground. "Scram!"

Easton's eyes lit up. He nodded, bowed, and crouched to pick up the money. "Thank you, Mr. Stafford! You two catch up! I'll get out of your hair now!"

With that, he clutched the money and scurried off.

The two of them were left alone in the shabby house.

Magnus finally let go of Esmeralda. As he examined the wounds on her back, his brows furrowed tightly. "I'm sorry, Esme. I didn't expect your father to beat you like that. I thought the SAT scores didn't matter since we're studying abroad. Maybe I shouldn't have asked you to hand in blank answer sheets..."

Esmeralda raised her head and gazed at him silently.

Magnus had a face that could sweep every girl off their feet. Now, his eyes held a perfect balance of regret and tenderness. But Esmeralda felt nothing inside.

Under her gaze, Magnus felt an inexplicable pang of guilt. He hesitated briefly, his voice betraying a hint of nervousness. "What, Esme? You don't believe me?"

She thought to herself, "Of course, I don't believe you."

Even as a kid, she understood what it meant when people said knowledge could rewrite your path.

With her mother gone and her father consumed by alcohol and violence, studying was her only way out.

She put her heart and soul into her study, hoping to score high enough and leave this place as far away as possible.

So when Magnus—who was used to the world revolving around him—suddenly started pursuing her, her first instinct was to turn him down and keep her distance. She didn't have time to play Cinderella and indulge in any fairytale romance.

But, Magnus was relentless.

Every day, he brought her breakfast. He stood up for her when other girls picked on her and always showed up in time to shield her from her father's drunken outbursts.

On her birthday, he booked the most luxurious hotel rooftop in the city, decorating it with shimmering star-shaped lights. Under a sky full of fireworks, he said, "Esmeralda, will you be my girlfriend, and let me take care of you?"

At that moment, the girl who lived in a world of gloom saw a spark of hope for the first time.

In the end, she gave in to his tenderness, welcoming him into her heart.

Later, he told her that his family would send him to study abroad after graduation.

He held her tightly, his voice thick with hurt. "Esme, I hate the thought of leaving you behind. Come with me. I'll arrange everything. The SAT doesn't matter. Hand in blank papers if you like. And don't push yourself so hard."

She hesitated.

She had her own dreams. She wanted to pursue higher education at one of the country's top universities through her own effort; she didn't want to be entirely dependent on him.

After much thought, she decided to be upfront, telling him that she could accept a long-distance relationship and would wait for him to finish his studies abroad.

That day, feeling both anxious and determined, she stood outside the billiard room where Magnus often hung out with his buddies. The moment she overheard their conversation, she was rooted to the spot.

"Mag, did you actually trick that nerd Esmeralda into handing in blank papers for the SAT?" a boy teased.

"Yep!" The voice was unmistakably Magnus's, but it carried a cool indifference she'd never heard from him before.

Someone burst into laughter. "Sab will be thrilled to hear it! She is always eclipsed by Esmeralda, stuck in second place for years! Now, she can finally have her moments!"

"As long as she's happy." Magnus's voice softened a little.

"Kudos to you! Your acting's amazing! All those over-the-top gestures—we almost believed you actually fell for her!"

"Everything for Sab," Magnus said impatiently. "If it weren't for her, I wouldn't have wasted a second on a boring girl like Esmeralda."

"How much longer are you going to keep up the act? I can't wait to see the look on Esmeralda's face when she learns the truth! She's the smartest in the class, yet you played her like a fiddle. Not only is she heartbroken, but her studies are ruined!"

"Once the scores are out, I'll tell her the truth and break up with her. Sab says that's the only way to get even."

"Geez, that's brutal! You put her on the pedestal only to let her fall into pieces, leaving her no chance to bounce back! I'm impressed!"

Outside the door, Esmeralda felt dizzy.

The whole world was falling apart around her!

So everything was a lie.

That tenderness, the sweet nothings, the perfectly timed rescues—all of them had been an elaborate hoax!

He approached Esmeralda and treated her kindly, all just to ruin her and win Sabrina Knapp's heart!

And Esmeralda, like a fool, actually believed him and nearly destroyed her own future with her own hands!

A wave of sorrow and rage surged through her. She could barely resist the impulse to storm inside and ask why he had to be so cruel!

Nevertheless, what difference would it make?

They were born with a silver spoon. The world was their oyster.

Even if this plan failed, they would find another way to torture her and crush her.

She couldn't be reckless.

She had to grow stronger to survive.

If they wanted to play games, she would show them who could play better.

Esmeralda covered her mouth, stifling every sob, her tears running unchecked and soaking her shirt. Then, she wiped them away and turned to leave.

From that day on, she seemed like a completely different person.

She studied even harder, channeling all her pain and anger into it.

On the day of the SAT, she ignored Magnus's hopeful gaze and answered every question meticulously.

After the test, Magnus asked her inadvertently, "Esme, did you submit blank papers like I asked?"

She looked down, hiding the indifference in her eyes, and replied, "Yes."

When kept in the dark, she was the prey, at the mercy of their games.

But once she knew the truth, the prey became the hunter, hunting those who had betrayed her.

Magnus was unnerved by the disturbing calm in Esmeralda's gaze, but he quickly composed himself, assuming she was startled.

He gingerly supported her. "Come on. Let me take you to the hospital."

In the hospital, Magnus rushed about tirelessly, consulting the finest doctors and securing the best medicines.

As the nurse dressed Esmeralda's wounds, Magnus's brows drew in the middle, his face etched with concern.

After that, he sat by the bedside, holding Esmeralda's uninjured hand, his voice softer than ever. "Esme, rest up. I'll stay here with you."

Over the next several days, Magnus never left Esmeralda's side. He showered her with care and attended to her every need.

He was rakishly good-looking like a movie star, and his devotion to Esmeralda had all the nurses green with envy, all secretly wishing they could have a boyfriend as perfect and loyal as he was.

Only Esmeralda knew he was just a wolf in sheep's clothing.

She left the hospital on the same day of the pre-planned post-exam class get-together.

When Magnus carefully guided Esmeralda into the KTV suite, it immediately caused quite a stir.

His classmates flocked over to greet them, their eyes wandering between the pair with a mix of curiosity and admiration.

"Esmeralda, are you OK? We nearly freaked out when we heard you had turned in blank papers!"

"Exactly! But I just found out that you're going to study abroad with Magnus! That explains everything!"

"Esmeralda, I envy you! Magnus is such a good catch. You will be living the high life soon! Why even bother with college?"

"Magnus treats you so well! You're a match made in heaven!"

Amidst the cheers and flatteries, Esmeralda spotted Sabrina lurking in the corner with a glass of juice in hand. A half-smile played on her lips, her gaze sharp like a snake eyeing its prey. She was ready to see Esmeralda's downfall.

Esmeralda sneered inwardly. So, this was the game Sabrina wanted to play.

Sabrina put her on the pedestal, letting everyone know she sacrificed her future for love, and when the scores were out and the truth lay bare, she would become the butt of everyone's joke and fall from grace.

Esmeralda said nothing. She said quietly next to Magnus, playing the tamed and dutiful girlfriend.

Once everyone had arrived, the party hit full swing. They sang, played games, and chattered vivaciously.

Whether by design or mere chance, soon, several classmates began toasting to Esmeralda, urging her to down her drink.

Magnus sat beside her, smiling without trying to stop them. Occasionally, he chimed in, "Esme's tolerance is low. Go easy on her."

Esmeralda instantly became alert.

Because of her father, she abhorred alcohol, yet she had an extraordinary tolerance and could drink anyone under the table.

She had no idea why they wanted to get her drunk, but they were definitely up to no good.

So, Esmeralda decided to play along.

She didn't refuse their drinks, downing one glass after another. Her eyes glazed over. Her body wobbled, and she finally collapsed into Magnus's arms, completely unconscious.

"Esme? Esme?" Magnus gently tapped her cheeks.

Esmeralda did not react.

She sensed Magnus scooped her up, carried her out of the noisy suite, into a car, to an unfamiliar place, and eventually lay her down on a soft bed.

They were in a hotel.

Esmeralda held her breath and kept pretending to be out cold, but she pricked up her ears, listening intently to every sound in the room.

A moment later, she heard the door creak open and a tender, purposely restrained female voice speak. It was Sabrina.

"Mag, is she really passed out?"

"Yes." There was a heaviness in Magnus's tone.

Then, their conversation almost made Esmeralda's blood run cold.

"Sab, are you sure you want me to take her virginity?" Magnus's voice was laced with pain and inner conflict. "Didn't we agree this was just an act? I genuinely don't like her. Touching her makes me feel sick."

"I know the struggle, Mag. I feel you. But flunking the test isn't enough! I want you to take nude photos of her! When the test results are announced, we'll tell the truth and post the photos online! I want her to fall into disrepute and make her life miserable!"

"But, Sab... The girl I'm in love with is you. I want you to be my first," Magnus protested.

"Since you love me, you have to do this for me!" Sabrina murmured, her voice sweet as honey. "This will be your badge of honor. Close your eyes, and it'll end quickly. Take the pictures, and we're done with her for good, OK? Please, help me, Mag..."

Magnus fell silent for a long time, so long that Esmeralda almost believed that he would refuse.

In the end, as if all his strength had been drained, he rasped out a single word. "OK."

Sabrina smiled complacently, "I'll leave you to it. Make it quick."

She gently closed the door.

Esmeralda lay in the dark, her heart frozen, a chill creeping into every part of her body.

That was why they got her drunk.

Taking her virginity and taking nudes were just the beginning. While dealing the crushing blow, they sought to destroy her dignity and make sure she never bounced back!

How vicious!

But, they made the wrong move!

Esmeralda didn't value her chastity above her life.

Besides, Magnus was the whole package. It was unlikely that she would find someone equally ideal in the future.

On top of that, it was a first for both of them. No one was at a disadvantage.

Sabrina was utterly foolish. She actually handed Magnus to her on a silver platter.

Suddenly, she felt the mattress dip. His body descended upon her, carrying a fresh, mesmerizing fragrance.

His kisses were stiff. His every movement screamed reluctance.

Esmeralda felt a ripple of satisfaction. If she had to put on a show, she might as well see it to the end.

When he clumsily slid his dick into her, Esmeralda pretended to be awake and let out a soft groan. Then she turned the tables, looping her arms around his neck, awkwardly yet boldly returning his kiss.

She was a fast learner. Though inexperienced, her knowledge and grit carried her forward until she took the lead. Her unpolished but tantalizing techniques fueled Magnus's lust.

Magnus didn't expect things to take a turn.

He had planned to make it quick, get the photos, and get it over with.

But the girl under him was passionate and innocent, like a wildfire, consuming his every reason and intention.

He was lost in the unprecedentedly intense sensual pleasures, his mind emptied all of a sudden. The photos, the mission, and everything were thrown into oblivion.

Like an insatiable beast, he followed his instinct, taking her greedily, as though he wanted to tear apart and devour the body beneath him.

***

The next morning, Esmeralda was roused by a stifled chatter.

Magnus was making a call on the balcony, his voice raspy from a hangover, tinged with a barely noticeable hint of guilt.

"Sorry, Sab. I didn't get the photos."

"What? How is that possible?" Over the line, Sabrina sounded shocked and instantly raised her voice. "Magnus! How can you lie to me? Have you gone soft?"

"I haven't!" Magnus shot back in frustration. "My phone ran out of juice! Yes, that's the whole story!"

Thinking about the madness of last night, even Magnus himself found it hard to believe.

He had been groomed as an heir, self-disciplined and restrained. He had never thought he would lose control and succumb to desire.

That strange pleasure was as addictive as a drug, making him cum again and again. He completely forgot to get his phone and take pictures.

"You..." Sabrina pressed.

Magnus cut her short and brushed her off. "Next time! I'll find another chance to take the photos! Let's just leave it here for now!"

He hastily ended the call, took a deep breath, and returned to his room.

Seeing Esmeralda awake, gazing at him amusingly, Magnus felt a twinge of conflicted feelings.

He approached, planning to hug her like in the past, but a simple, unintentional gesture of Esmeralda stirred a reaction in his body.

In the morning light, the girl's skin glowed, smooth and fair, her body a map of hickeys. Her sleepy eyes gleamed with clarity, as if she could see through everything.

Magnus's Adam's apple bobbed. Driven by impulse, he pinned her under his body again.

They reveled in another passionate lovemaking.

Esmeralda watched Magnus plowing her. His once divine, aloof face flushed with lust. A cold smirk played on her lips.

She knew that some things had changed.

Once the gate of desire was opened, closing it off would be no cakewalk.

After the sex, Magnus offered to give Esmeralda a ride home.

In the car, they both were lost in their own thoughts, and not a word was exchanged.

As they neared the run-down alley leading to Esmeralda's home, Magnus's phone suddenly buzzed.

He glanced at the screen, scowling slightly, then he said, "Esme, something urgent came up. I have to handle it. Can you make it home by yourself?"

Esmeralda cast him a glance, took it at face value, and nodded. "Sure."

She opened the car door and got out, her eyes following Magnus's car as it merged into the traffic and disappeared.

But she had barely turned and taken a few steps before a sack was thrown over her head!

Then, a searing pain shot through the back of her neck. The world faded to black, and she passed out.

***

After some time, Esmeralda managed to regain a fragment of consciousness through the splitting headache and body soreness.

She found herself in an abandoned warehouse with her hands tied behind her back and her mouth taped.

She pricked up her ears, catching the muffled voices coming from outside.

"Unbelievable! That bitch slept with Mag! And we didn't even get the photos! Why do I feel I was being played? I can't let this slide!

"Listen up! After she wakes up, give her the worst punishment imaginable! Make her pray for death! Got it?"

"Got it, Ms. Knapp!" a few hoarse male voices responded in unison.

Esmeralda's blood ran cold!

It was Sabrina!

She flew into a rage over the photos and went straight to kidnap Esmeralda!

On top of that, she wanted to torture Esmeralda in the cruelest way possible!

Driven by a will to survive, Esmeralda struggled desperately, searching for any chance to escape.

But soon, the warehouse door creaked open. A crop of sleazy, thuggish-looking men strutted inside.

"Look, she's awake!" The scar-faced man in the lead saw her wriggling and cracked a sinister smile. "Saves us the trouble!"

He shot his men a meaningful look and said lazily, "Brothers, Ms. Knapp gave the order! Let's do it! Give this chick a taste of real pain!"

Before he finished talking, a hail of fists and kicks rained down on Esmeralda!

They struck with no mercy, targeting only her vulnerable parts, like her stomach, chest, and joints.

Esmeralda curled up in agony, stifled whimpers escaping her throat as blood trickled from the corner of her mouth.

But the worst was yet to come!

The scar-faced man pulled out a rusty pair of pliers and yanked Esmeralda's mouth open under her petrified stare.

"No!" Esmeralda shook her head frantically, tears pouring from her eyes.

But it was futile.

The cold pliers clamped onto her teeth, then, with a sudden, savage jerk...

A cry of anguish echoed through the air.

Blood-curdling cracks sounded repeatedly.

Waves of indescribable, excruciating pain tore through her nerves! Instantly, blood filled her mouth and streamed down her chin.

One, two, three, four... Mad and unhinged, they ripped out her teeth one by one!

Esmeralda convulsed violently, her eyes bulging, her consciousness slowly fading under the unbearable agony.

In the end, she spat out a mouthful of blood mixed with shattered teeth and plunged once more into darkness.

Esmeralda opened her eyes to find herself lying in a hospital bed.

Her wounds had been dressed. Her teeth had been implanted.

Seeing her awake, Magnus leaned over, his handsome face shadowed with worry and indignation. "Esme, you're awake! How are you feeling? Does it still hurt?

"I can't believe how brazen-faced these kidnappers have become, committing crimes in broad daylight! Don't worry! I had those thugs arrested and thrown into jail. They'll get the punishment they deserve!"

He spoke righteously, like a perfect boyfriend seeking justice for his girlfriend.

But Esmeralda only gazed at him in silence. Her eyes that had once overflowed with affection and faith were now shrouded in a fog of disappointment.

She knew he must've found out that Sabrina was the mastermind.

He cherished that girl above all else. She was the motivation behind all his actions.

How could he ever do Sabrina a disservice? Putting a handful of scapegoats into prison was merely a clever ruse to placate Esmeralda and maintain his façade.

Even if Esmeralda had nearly been beaten to death and had every tooth ripped out, it wouldn't weigh as much in his heart as one of Sabrina's tears.

Esmeralda felt her eyes stung. She snapped them shut and forced the tears back.

What was the point of confronting him and exposing him? It would only humiliate herself.

Now was not the right time to give them a "big surprise".

Magnus saw tears welling in her eyes and assumed the wounds were hurting. He hurriedly pressed the call bell and said, "Doctor, she's awake! She seems in pain. Check her, please!"

In the days that followed, to make amends for his negligence, he treated Esmeralda with meticulous care.

He fed her, cleaned her, and changed dressings for her. He played the devoted boyfriend to perfection.

He learned that Esmeralda admired the works of Zachery Farrell, a world-renowned painter. Luckily, Zachery was hosting an exhibition at the art center.

Magnus offered to accompany Esmeralda to the exhibition to lift her spirits.

The exhibition teemed with people, the air thick with the fragrance of fresh paint.

As she admired the paintings on the wall, she temporarily forgot about the pain in her body and the sorrows in her heart..

She lingered before a painting called "Resilience," where orchids sprouted from the crevice of a cliff with pride and defiance.

Just then, Magnus's phone rang. He glanced at the caller ID, and his expression changed. He said softly, "Esme, I have to take this. Enjoy the exhibition."

He walked to a quiet corner to answer the call.

Esmeralda pretended to admire the painting and inched closer without drawing his attention.

She heard Sabrina's coquettish and commanding voice coming through the line. "Mag, where are you now?"

"At an art exhibition with Esmeralda," Magnus replied calmly.

"An art exhibition?" Sabrina shouted furiously. "Magnus! You already tricked her into submitting blank papers! All we need to do is wait for the results, expose her in front of everyone, and humiliate her! Why are you being nice to her? Why are you even taking her to an art exhibition?"

After a brief silence, Magnus lowered his voice and explained, "Cut it out, Sab. I'm doing this to keep her from getting suspicious. If you want me to play the part, I've got to commit fully."

"Play the part?" Sabrina sneered. "You never went this far before! Ever since you slept with her, you've changed! You start caring for her. Now, you even take her to an exhibition! Magnus, don't tell me you have fallen for that nerd!"

"I haven't!" Magnus denied it at once, a trace of impatience edging into his voice. "How could I possibly like her? You know my heart only belongs to you!"

"I don't buy it!" Sabrina hissed. "Stay right there! I'm coming over now!"

The call ended abruptly.

Esmeralda silently retreated to the painting "Resilience," her heart filled with a bitter irony.

A lie was still a lie, even if it seemed flawless.

It didn't take long before Sabrina stormed into the exhibition.

She made her way to Esmeralda, her gaze falling on "Resilience."

"I'll take this one," Sabrina said firmly, pointing at the painting.

Esmeralda looked up and said in a calm voice, "I'm sorry, Sabrina. I like this one as much as you do."

Seeing the two beautiful girls at odds, the staff had no choice but to bring over Zachery, who was resting in the lounge.

Zachery was an elderly man, but he was sprightly and sophisticated.

He glanced at Sabrina, then at Esmeralda, and asked gently, "Could you tell me why you like 'Resilience?'"

Sabrina spoke first with confidence. "The trees are tall and majestic. The rocks are sturdy. The symbols carry a profound meaning. It'll look perfect in the living room."

Esmeralda fixed her eyes on the orchids, her voice gentle yet resolute. "I admire its resilience in adversity. The rocks can't crush it. No storm can break it. It stands tall with dignity and grows toward the sun."

Suddenly, a spark of excitement flickered across Zachery's serene eyes.

He observed Esmeralda. This girl had grasped the core meaning he had hoped to express through the painting.

"Well said!" Zachery clapped and smiled, his eyes full of approval. "Miss, you've understood the gist of this piece. I won't charge you a cent. It's yours now!"

With that, he retrieved the painting and handed it to Esmeralda.

Sabrina's smile vanished, her face turning pale.

Little did she expect that her carefully rehearsed compliments fell flat against Esmeralda's simple yet soul-stirring remarks.

It had always been like this! Either in studies or in other fields, Esmeralda always managed to outshine her!

Sabrina shot Esmeralda a hateful glare. Then she said nothing, spun around, and stormed out of the exhibition.

After finishing visiting, Magnus drove Esmeralda home. Heavy silence hung between them.

As they reached a quiet stretch of the road, Magnus pulled over and said softly, "Esme, are you thirsty? I'll get you a bottle of water from the convenience store."

Esmeralda nodded.

Watching Magnus get out, Esmeralda leaned back in her seat, closed her eyes, and felt exhausted.

However, shortly after Magnus disappeared into the store, the car jolted without warning and started sliding forward!

Esmeralda snapped her eyes open, her heart skipping a beat!

She didn't know how to drive. She didn't know where the brake was or how to stop the car!

She banged on the window helplessly, trying to get someone's attention, but the road was empty of people.

The car sped up like an unbridled horse, hurtling straight toward the brick wall at the end of the road.

Bang!

The deafening crash shook everything around!

The airbag deployed instantly, but the force of the impact hurled Esmeralda's head against the windshield. Warm blood gushed from her forehead, blurring her vision.

Just before she lost her consciousness, she caught sight of two familiar silhouettes through the web-like, fractured windshield, slowly emerging from the shadows and stopping in front of the car.

They were Magnus and Sabrina.

Staring at Esmeralda, Magnus rubbed his forehead and said, "Sab, do you believe me now? I don't like her. I couldn't care less about her life."

Folding her arms, Sabrina snorted, her face radiant with the thrill of revenge. "You failed to get me her naked photos and even let her steal my painting. I wasn't going to forgive you. But now, by orchestrating this accident yourself, you have avenged me! I suppose I can forgive you."

Magnus paused for a moment, then asked, "Can we take her to the hospital now?"

"Hospital?" Sabrina arched her brow, her tone merciless. "No. I'm still not over it. Leave her here. Whether she makes it or not, let fate decide."

Magnus stood there in silence for a moment before uttering one word. "Fine."

Boom—!!!

That single word, 'good', was like a red-hot branding iron, searing Esmeralda's heart mercilessly!

She stared in disbelief at the cold and noble young man outside the car, at his indifference to her life, at his indulgence toward Sabrina...

So, in his heart, her life truly was as worthless as a blade of grass.

A wave of immense despair and coldness swept over her, and darkness completely swallowed her vision.

***

When she awoke again from the agony, she was still in the hospital, with Magnus keeping vigil at her bedside.

"Esme, you're finally awake! I'm so sorry! It's all my fault!" He gripped her hand tightly. "I truly didn't expect that while I just got out to buy some water, the car would suddenly lose control... and you ended up in such a serious accident... I'm sorry, I promise, I will never let something like this happen again!"

Listening to his riddled-with-holes lies, Esmeralda felt a numb, stabbing pain in her heart.

She said nothing, simply closed her eyes, burying all her emotions deep within.

For the next few days, Magnus remained at the hospital, caring for her attentively.

Until today, which was Magnus's birthday.

He arranged for Esmeralda's discharge in advance and took her to attend his birthday party at his family's villa.

The party was extravagantly lavish, with many classmates in attendance, including Sabrina, who was dressed to the nines.

Throughout the entire event, Magnus cared for Esmeralda with utmost tenderness, personally bringing her food, shielding her from drinks, and behaving intimately, which made the attending classmates envious, all marveling at how fortunate Esmeralda must be.

Even Sabrina could no longer hold back; she seized the chance when Esmeralda went to the restroom and blocked her in the corridor.

"Esmeralda, don't think that just because Mag is treating you a little better now, you can really soar and become a phoenix!" Sabrina crossed her arms, her tone biting. "Let me tell you, don't get smug too soon! Your good days are still ahead!"

Esmeralda didn't want to get entangled with her and turned to leave.

"Stop! Didn't you hear me talking to you?!" Sabrina stepped forward, suddenly grabbing Esmeralda's wrist, her nails nearly digging into her flesh!

A sharp pain shot through her wrist, and Esmeralda instinctively jerked hard, trying to break free.

However, just as she shook off Sabrina's hand, Sabrina seemed to suddenly lose her balance, stumbling backward several steps and falling to the ground.

She immediately clutched her ankle, tears streaming down as she pointed at Esmeralda and wailed, "Esmeralda! You pushed me?!"

The commotion drew a crowd, including Magnus, who rushed over after hearing the news.

Seeing Sabrina on the ground, Magnus's face instantly darkened.

Sabrina immediately began to complain, tears glistening: "Mag! I just wanted to say a few words to her, but she pushed me without any reason! I think I twisted my ankle!"

Esmeralda's heart leapt into her throat.

Yet, to her surprise, Magnus did not immediately lash out.

He merely cast a cold glance at Esmeralda, then pulled out his checkbook, swiftly signed a check, tore it off, and handed it to Sabrina, his tone indifferent: "Medical expenses and compensation for emotional distress. Is that enough?"

Without waiting for Sabrina's reaction, he grabbed Esmeralda's hand and, under a barrage of astonished gazes, strode out of the banquet hall.

Sitting in the car, Esmeralda's heart was anything but at ease.

This was far too abnormal.

Magnus cared so much about Sabrina—how could he just settle things with a check?

This was not his usual way of standing up for Sabrina.

Moreover, with Sabrina's vengeful nature, after suffering such a loss today, she would never let it go.

If Magnus didn't avenge her, she would pester him until he did.

Given the lesson from the previous car accident, she could no longer sit and wait for disaster.

Halfway home, Esmeralda pretended to be carsick and said she needed to throw up, asking Magnus to stop by the roadside, claiming she would walk back herself.

Fortunately, Magnus didn't say much and let her go. Only after watching the Maybach drive away did she quickly hail a taxi and give her home address.

She had to get back and lay low immediately.

However, as the taxi approached that familiar, rundown alley, Esmeralda saw flames soaring into the sky and thick smoke billowing!

She burst out of the car like a madwoman and rushed over, only to see her already dilapidated house engulfed in a sea of fire!

The shrill sirens of fire trucks and the neighbors' cries of alarm mingled together.

Easton, covered in soot, sat slumped not far away. Upon seeing her, he scrambled over, wailing, "It's over! Our home is gone! Just now, a whole group of bodyguards in black barged in, doused everything with gasoline, and set it on fire without a word! Did you offend someone? Quick! Go find Mr. Stafford! He must have a way!"

Find Magnus?

Esmeralda's heart felt as if it had been instantly frozen, then ruthlessly crushed!

Who else but Magnus could mobilize so many people in such a short time and retaliate in such a ruthless way?!

Just because she pushed Sabrina, he had to burn down her home! Destroy her last refuge!

The overwhelming pain and hatred nearly made her unable to stand. Staring at the raging flames, she suddenly remembered something, and her face turned deathly pale in an instant!

"Mom... Mom's keepsake! It's still inside!" Esmeralda murmured, suddenly coming to her senses. She turned around and was about to rush into the sea of fire!

"Are you crazy?!" Easton snapped back to reality and grabbed her. "The fire is so big! Are you trying to get yourself killed?!"

"Let go of me! That's the only thing my mom left me!" Esmeralda struggled desperately, tears mixed with soot streaming down her face.

"Your mother has been dead for so many years! What's so important about those worthless things? Your life matters more!"

"That's all I have to remember her by! Let me go!" Esmeralda summoned all her strength and shoved her father away. Then, like an arrow released from a bow, she dashed into that scorching hell without hesitation!

The tongues of fire licked her skin, and the thick smoke nearly suffocated her.

Relying on her memory, she stumbled toward the small corner where her mother had lived, frantically searching with her bare hands through the scalding ashes and collapsed beams!

So hot! It burned! Her fingers were scorched, sending waves of piercing pain, but she seemed not to feel it at all!

Where is it? Where on earth is it?!

She couldn't lose the last thing her mother left her! She couldn't!

In the end, the firefighters forced their way in and dragged her out of the fire.

After the fire was extinguished, the already dilapidated home was reduced to a smoldering ruin.

Esmeralda seemed to have lost her soul. Ignoring everyone's attempts to stop her, she rushed back into the wreckage, digging through the charred debris with her hands, now bloody and mangled, searching desperately.

At last, in the corner of a deformed, burned metal box, she touched a small handful of cold ashes with a strange texture.

Gone... Everything was gone...

Her last bit of warmth and solace had been utterly destroyed by Magnus and Sabrina!

Esmeralda suddenly collapsed to the ground, unable to hold back any longer, and broke down in tears.

Her cries were hoarse and desperate, like a mother beast mourning the loss of her cub in the wilderness.

She sat there in the ruins, crying for a long, long time, until her tears dried up, her voice became hoarse, and only silent sobs remained.

The sky shifted from pitch black to gray, and then to the pale light of dawn.

It wasn't until daylight had fully broken that Magnus finally arrived, late as ever.

He saw Esmeralda sitting amidst the ruins, disheveled and hollow-eyed, and a look of shock and pain appeared on his face.

He hurried over, took off his coat, and draped it over her shoulders.

"Esme! I'm so sorry! I just heard about the fire at your house! Are you alright?"

"You can't stay here anymore. Let me take you to a hotel first. As for this house, don't worry, I'll have someone repair it for you as soon as possible..."

Esmeralda slowly lifted her head and looked at his handsome face, full of concern. Her voice was as hoarse as an old bellows: "No need."

She paused, then said, word by word, "From now on, I will never come back."

Magnus was stunned for a moment, then as if he understood something, a look of relief appeared on his face. He pulled her into his arms, his tone full of hope for a better future: "You're right. We're about to go abroad anyway, and there's really nothing here worth holding on to. From now on, having me is all you need."

Esmeralda leaned against him, neither struggling nor responding. She simply looked up at him, her gaze deep and unreadable, before finally settling into a cold, silent calm.

She did not correct his misunderstanding.

Magnus left his men to handle the aftermath of the fire, while he took Esmeralda to check in once again at the luxurious hotel suite in the city center.

The day to check the SAT results was drawing closer and closer.

Magnus seemed to have completely relaxed as well. He no longer went out, staying in the hotel suite all day, clinging to Esmeralda almost around the clock.

It was as if he were addicted, obsessed with her youthful body, from the living room to the bedroom, from dawn to midnight, in every position and every place, never seeming to get enough.

Esmeralda went along with him, entangling and losing herself with him in this whirlpool of desire.

As she looked at the man above her, lost in passion and fallen from his pedestal like a disgraced deity, her heart was filled with a cold, tranquil calm.

She knew this was the last calm before the storm, and also the final "feast" before her departure.

At last, the day arrived for the SAT results to be released.

In the early morning, the two of them once again shared a passionate embrace.

Afterwards, Magnus seemed unsatisfied, holding her in his arms and kissing her forehead, her brows, and her lips over and over again, his actions tinged with a lingering affection even he did not realize.

"Esme," his voice was husky from their intimacy, "let's get up and get dressed. We have to go to school today."

Esmeralda lifted her eyes to look at him.

Magnus avoided her gaze, trying to sound casual: "I heard... Sabrina did really well this time. Her father discussed it with the school, and they've decided that all the students will go to the auditorium to check their scores together, and the whole process will be broadcast online. They want everyone to witness the birth of the top scorer."

"Even though we both handed in blank exams, we still have to go through the motions. And... I have something I want to say to you there."

Esmeralda looked at him deeply, as if her gaze could pierce through his skin and reach the depths of his soul.

Then, she nodded gently: "Alright."

"You go ahead first. I... think my period is about to start, my stomach hurts a bit, so I'd like to go a little later."

Magnus didn't think much of it and nodded.

He quickly got up and dressed, tidied his appearance, and once again wore that cool and noble demeanor.

"I'll head over first. Call me when you get to school." He was about to leave.

"Magnus." Esmeralda suddenly called out to him.

Magnus turned back.

Esmeralda looked at him and said softly, "Goodbye."

Magnus was stunned for a moment, then chuckled, thinking she was just being a sentimental girl. He walked over and ruffled her hair, his tone indulgent: "Silly, why say goodbye? We'll see each other at school in a bit."

With that, he turned and left the hotel room without a trace of reluctance.

As the sound of footsteps faded away outside the door, the calm on Esmeralda's face vanished in an instant.

He had no idea what that goodbye truly meant.

She quickly got up, rushed into the bathroom, washed away every trace of him from her body, and changed into a clean, crisp outfit.

Then, she took out the suitcase she had prepared in advance and calmly began to pack her few belongings.

She didn't take any of the expensive clothes or jewelry Magnus had given her, only her identification, a small amount of cash, and the painting Resilience gifted by Zachery.

The moment she zipped up her suitcase, a flurry of hurried footsteps echoed in the hotel corridor outside.

Esmeralda took a deep breath and straightened her back.

They were here.

Sure enough, the next second, the doorbell rang, urgent and excited.

Esmeralda picked up her suitcase and walked over to open the door.

Outside stood a large crowd, all impeccably dressed and distinguished, their faces alight with excitement and enthusiasm. Behind them were several staff members carrying video cameras!

At the front, a bespectacled, scholarly-looking middle-aged man spoke first, his tone brimming with excitement.

"Esmeralda! Congratulations! You are the only student in the country to achieve a perfect score on the SAT this year—it's truly historic! I am the director of admissions at Harvard University, and we sincerely invite you to join us! Full scholarship, any major you choose!"

Before he finished, a capable-looking woman immediately jumped in, speaking so fast it was like an auction.

"Esmeralda, I am Prof. Russell from MIT! MIT opens all its doors to you—integrated bachelor's, master's, and PhD programs, top laboratory resources, and we will fully support any path you choose!"

"Esmeralda, Princeton University sincerely invites you!"

"Yale University welcomes you!"

"Columbia University..."

Representatives from prestigious universities, whom she had only ever seen on the news, were now vying to extend their invitations to Esmeralda, each offering more generous terms and humbler attitudes than the last, all eager to welcome this newly emerged top scholar.

Esmeralda stood at the doorway, taking in the noisy and astonishing scene before her. The morning sunlight streamed through the window at the end of the corridor, falling on her calm yet resolute face.

She knew that the moment she had been waiting for, the one that truly belonged to her, had finally arrived.