One of the female students in the class had never turned in a single assignment, so Stephanie Brogan deducted her participation grade.

That afternoon, a group of people vandalized her desk.

Her lesson plans were scattered across the floor, and her computer screen was shattered. The thermos water even soaked all the students' theses she'd stayed up late correcting.

Stephanie stood there, staring at the mess with shaking fingers.

She drew in a deep breath and got ready to confront Amelia Gibson—until she spotted her husband, Edgar Ferguson, in the corner of the teaching building.

He had Amelia in his arms, gently wiping away her tears. His voice was soft. "Don't cry. I've already stood up for you. No one will dare to bully you while I'm around."

Amelia sniffled, her eyes red and puffy. "Thank you, Mr. Ferguson. Without you, college would've been hell for me. I don't even know how to repay you."

Edgar grinned and brushed her lips. "Then give me a kiss as thanks. How about that?"

She looked bashful for a moment, then hesitated before standing on her tiptoes and gently kissing his lips.

"It's just a thank-you," she whispered. "But I don't support this. You have a wife. If you're going to pursue me, I need time."

He smoothed her hair softly. "Okay. I'll wait."

Stephanie watched from the shadows, cold blood running through her veins.

At that moment, she remembered their wedding day. Edgar knelt on one knee on the rose petals, swearing, "Stephanie, I'll only love you in this life."

That vow felt empty three years later.

After Amelia went back to the dorm, Stephanie stumbled to the car, her face drained.

Edgar leaned against the front, lighting a cigarette, his face lit by the flame. He looked over, surprised.

"Stephanie?"

"Edgar." Her voice quivered. "When did this start?"

Edgar froze for a second, then laughed lightly. He took his time letting out a smoke ring. Even through the haze, his eyes still held that dangerous kind of charm.

"Since you've discovered it, no point hiding it," he said lazily. "I only get ten years to fool around. Once I'm old and ugly, there's no going back.

"I do love you, Stephanie, but don't expect me to only love you forever. I'll eventually get bored.

"Amelia reminds me of how you used to be—young and pure. I'm into that right now. Relax. I'm not divorcing you. After I've had my fun, I'll come back."

Stephanie felt like her heart had been grabbed out of her chest and squeezed repeatedly. "I can't accept it! If you end things with her now, I can still forgive you."

Edgar frowned, clearly annoyed. "Enough. I've already made it clear. You're still the one I'll spend most of my life with. So just..."

He grabbed her chin, his gaze turning cold. "Behave. Don't mess with my little lover."

Then, he let go and left.

Stephanie stood there, her whole body trembling in shock.

She had heard how some rich families worked—where men kept their wives but still messed around with other women. Wealthy heirs like Edgar were dream husbands for a lot of rich girls.

But she never imagined he'd turn out like them.

Because once upon a time, he truly loved her.

He'd gone against his entire family to marry her, a teacher's daughter. He even stood outside her dorm for three days just to get her back. He knew her coffee preferences, the exact date she got cramps every month, and how much she hated rainy days.

On their wedding day, he held her hand and solemnly promised in front of everyone that she was the only one he'd ever love.

She just didn't expect that promise to break so fast.

Stephanie had no clue how she even made it back home.

She collapsed on the bed in a daze, soaking her pillow with tears.

When she came to, freezing water had already reached her chest.

Her eyes shot open. She was trapped inside a huge glass tank, her wrists chained above her. Water was slowly rising around her.

Across from her, Edgar was lounging on a leather couch in a crisp suit. With legs crossed, he flipped a lighter open and shut.

The flame lit up the sharp edges of his face, but not the coldness in his eyes.

"Edgar!" Stephanie thrashed, splashing water everywhere. "What are you doing?!"

He said coldly, "You went to Amelia and told her to stay away from me."

He shut the lighter with a snap and stood up, walking toward the tank. "She blocked me after that. So now, you're getting punished."

Stephanie shook her head wildly, her voice cracking. "No! I didn't even see her after I got home!"

"Still lying?" Edgar said with a cold smirk, signaling the bodyguard. "Raise the water."

The tank started filling up faster, and the freezing water climbed like icy fingers around her throat.

Stephanie had to lift her chin to breathe. The terror of drowning filled her every breath.

Edgar showed no concern for her pain. He just stared coldly as she struggled. "I told you I love you already. Just give me ten years. I'll come back.

"But until then, don't ever hurt Amelia."

With that, he turned and walked off.

"Edgar! Edgar—"

Her screams faded under the rising water. He never looked back.

Every ten minutes, the tank filled a little more. The chill never left her, and neither did the fear.

Right before everything faded, she caught flashes of the spring trip back then. She slipped into the water, and Edgar jumped in without hesitation like crazy.

She remembered all those nights when she was scared of the dark, and he stayed up just to talk her through it.

She remembered him running out late at night to grab hot oatmeal when her stomach hurt.

But now, all of that was gone.

By the time the bodyguards pulled her out, Stephanie couldn't even stay on her feet.

She hit the ground hard, coughing violently, drenched and barely holding it together.

Her hands were shaking as she pulled out her phone. The screen lit up instantly.

Amelia had just posted something new on Instagram.

"First time someone's ever waited outside my dorm all night just to get unblocked."

The photo showed Edgar standing downstairs with a bouquet of roses, looking soft and romantic.

Stephanie stared at it and suddenly smiled. Tears fell on the screen.

She got up unsteadily. When she got home, she sat down and typed up a divorce agreement.

Edgar didn't show up until later that night.

When he saw how pale she looked, his voice turned a little gentler. "Wanna grab dinner?"

He patted her head like she was a puppy that needed calming down. "Let's just move past this. I'll only be with her for ten years. Don't mess with her anymore."

Stephanie looked up and said calmly, "Alright. But you need to sign something."

She handed him a document. "It says you'll come back in ten years."

Without even glancing at it, Edgar scribbled his signature.

"Is that enough for you?" he asked, leaning in for a kiss.

Stephanie turned away and whispered, "Yeah."

And she meant it.

Because he had no clue that what he signed wasn't a promise to return. It was a divorce agreement.

Edgar had just finished signing when his phone started ringing.

His assistant's voice came through. "Mr. Ferguson, Ms. Gibson twisted her ankle. She's in a lot of pain and can't walk..."

His face shifted. "I'm heading there now."

After putting his phone away, he glanced at Stephanie. "Amelia is hurt. I'll go check on her. Let's eat together another time."

"No need." She clutched the divorce papers. "I don't need you showing up anymore."

Edgar frowned and was about to say something, but he still left.

Stephanie headed straight to a law firm. The lawyer read over the document carefully and nodded. "This agreement is valid. There's a one-month cooling-off period before it's finalized."

"Thanks."

After leaving, she made her way to the college. Inside the department head's office, she handed in her resignation letter.

"Stephanie?" Her department head looked shocked. "You're an incredible teacher. Why quit so suddenly?"

"I got divorced," she said flatly. "I want to leave this place."

The department head sighed. "Alright. You can go after you finish the rest of the semester."

"Thank you."

Outside the office, Stephanie paused for a deep breath.

During her last class, she forced herself to walk into the classroom. But then, she saw Edgar and Amelia sitting together in the back corner.

Edgar was dressed in a suit. Amelia rested her head on his shoulder. They whispered and laughed quietly, fingers laced together.

Stephanie felt her stomach drop.

He used to be all about his job and barely took three days off for their honeymoon before racing back to work. But now? He was skipping out on a 15-billion-dollar deal just to accompany Amelia in a boring elective course.

Stephanie took a steady breath and stepped up to the front. "Today, we'll talk about 'Collected Poems'..."

But even while she was teaching, she kept hearing soft laughs from the back.

Edgar's deep voice and Amelia's flirty giggles cut through her like knives.

As soon as the bell rang, Stephanie bolted from the classroom.

She went to the restroom and splashed cold water on her face. When she was about to head out, she heard Amelia talking inside one of the stalls.

"Edgar gave up a deal worth ten billion just to be in class with me!" Amelia bragged on the phone. "You should've seen how he looked at me. Like he wanted to devour me."

Her friend asked, "If he's so into you, why don't you just say yes?"

"Are you kidding?" Amelia snorted. "Guys like him have women chasing them nonstop. The only way to keep him hooked is to be hot and cold. Give him just enough to keep him interested in me."

Then, she lowered her voice. "I'm not trying to be his mistress. I want to be his wife."

Stephanie stood there, fists clenched so tight her nails dug into her skin.

She just walked out, passing Amelia expressionlessly.

"Ms. Sanchez?!" Amelia hurriedly hung up and grabbed Stephanie's wrist. "What did you hear?"

"I didn't hear a thing," Stephanie said, pulling away. "Your business has nothing to do with me."

Amelia looked like she was going to say more, but then she saw Edgar walking toward her.

Her eyes lit up. Instantly, she grabbed Stephanie's wrist again and slapped herself hard across the cheek.

Smack!

The sound echoed down the corridor, sharp and clear.

"Ms. Sanchez..." Amelia covered her face, her eyes filling with tears. Her voice was shaky and full of grievance. "I won't go near Mr. Ferguson anymore. Please don't be mad..."

Edgar stormed over, and his expression darkened. "Stephanie! Didn't I sign the agreement? Why are you still picking on Amelia?"

"I didn't do anything," Stephanie said, calm as ever. "She hit herself."

"Mr. Ferguson..." Amelia cried and leaned into Edgar's arms. "Maybe you shouldn't chase after me anymore. Ms. Sanchez is so upset. I'm scared..."

Edgar hugged her tightly right away. "Don't be scared. She doesn't get to decide how I feel."

Amelia's eyes were puffy as she spoke softly, "But Ms. Sanchez is your wife. She made me stay away from you and even slapped me..."

Her voice broke as she kept crying. "I've never been treated so unfairly..."

Edgar's face got even darker. He gently touched her reddened cheek and said in a soothing voice, "Don't cry. I'll make her pay it back tenfold."

Amelia faked a nervous look. "This... this is right. She's not just your wife—she's also my teacher. How could I hit her?"

"Then let the bodyguard handle it," Edgar replied softly, though what he said was anything but kind. "That way, it won't cause you any problems."

Stephanie's eyes widened in disbelief. She stared at the man who once swore he'd protect her. "Edgar, do you even hear yourself right now?"

He didn't even glance at her. Instead, he motioned to the bodyguard behind him. "Go ahead."

Two tall bodyguards stepped forward and shoved Stephanie against the wall.

Smack!

The first blow made her ears ring like crazy.

Her mind drifted to a stormy night years ago. Edgar had stood between her and the people who were bullying her, shouting, "If anyone touches her, I'll make sure they regret it for life!"

Smack!

The second slap snapped her back. Blood spilled from her mouth, streaking her pale lips.

Through her blurred vision, she saw Edgar covering Amelia's eyes like he didn't want her to see it. He even whispered something that made Amelia giggle and lightly smack his chest.

***

By the time the tenth slap landed, Stephanie felt nothing. She slumped to the ground, with the students' suppressed gasps ringing in her ears.

In her blurred vision, she saw Edgar turn to Amelia with a gentle smile. "Let's go. I'll take you to eat your favorite seafood."

Whispers spread through the corridor. "Poor Ms. Sanchez..."

"How could Mr. Ferguson do this?"

"That girl is so disgusting. It's obvious that she slapped herself!"

Stephanie gripped the wall to pull herself up.

Her cheeks burned, and walking felt like knives were slicing into her.

But the physical pain didn't compare to what she felt inside, like someone had ripped open her chest.

She used to think that even if Edgar stopped loving her, he'd at least remember everything they'd been through.

But for Amelia, he let someone slap her in public ten times.

The wind stung her face as she left the campus. She winced and gasped in pain.

When she got home, she stood in front of the mirror, staring at her pitiful reflection. Her face was puffy, and dried blood clung to the corners of her lips.

She let out a sudden laugh. As she laughed, tears streamed down her face.

It took Stephanie three days to recover enough to show her face on campus again.

As soon as she walked into the office, her department head called out to her. "Stephanie, Amelia didn't show up for several of her midterms. Since you're her class teacher, please follow up."

Stephanie pulled up Amelia's Instagram.

The latest post was a photo from an auction, with a huge diamond necklace around her neck. The caption read, "Mr. Ferguson says this necklace was made for me."

Scrolling through, Stephanie saw them in luxury spots—speedboat rides, fancy restaurants, horse ranches, and so on.

She gave Amelia a call.

"Hello?" Amelia answered, cheerful as ever. "Oh, hi, Ms. Sanchez!"

"You missed a few exams," Stephanie said in a flat tone. "The department head asked me to check on you."

"Oh, that!" Amelia giggled. "It's just some tests, right? You're close with the department head. Can't you just enter a score for me?"

She paused, then added with pride, "If that's a problem, I'll have Mr. Ferguson donate a few buildings. I'm sure they'll let it slide."

In the background, Edgar's voice came through the phone. "Having fun?"

"Yes!" Amelia replied sweetly, then turned her attention back to Stephanie. "If that's all, don't bother us while we're out enjoying ourselves."

Beep. The call ended.

Stephanie set the phone down with a bitter smile. She didn't follow up afterward.

When she returned home in the evening, she saw Edgar in the front yard teaching Amelia how to drive.

"Keep the wheel steady. Don't be nervous," he said, leaning in close. "I'm right here."

The scene made Stephanie's chest ache.

He used to say the same thing to her when she learned to drive.

Back then, she nearly crashed into a barrier. Edgar had just laughed, pinched her cheek, and told her, "What are you scared of? I'm right here."

Now, he was saying those words to someone else.

"Go ahead. Give it a try." Edgar stepped back.

Amelia hesitated. "What if I hit someone?"

"It's fine," Edgar said, brushing her hair. "I'm here."

That was when Amelia hit the gas—and suddenly veered straight toward Stephanie.

Bang!

Stephanie was knocked off her feet and hit the ground hard.

Blood pooled beneath her, turning the concrete red.

Through the pain, she saw Edgar running—but not to her.

He wrapped his arms around the shaken Amelia. "Are you hurt? That must've scared you."

Stephanie lay motionless in her blood, her vision going dark.

***

When she regained consciousness, she was in a hospital bed.

"You're finally awake." Edgar stood beside her like nothing had happened. "The doctor said you cracked a few ribs. Don't go to college for now. Just rest."

Stephanie tried to speak, but the pain was so bad that she couldn't get the words out. Her eyes filled with tears as she stared at him.

"Amelia didn't mean to," Edgar said. "She just started learning and got nervous."

"She... did it... on purpose..." Stephanie forced the words out, her voice strained with pain. "I... wasn't even... close to her..."

Edgar's expression hardened. A flicker of annoyance crossed his face. "What do you want then?"

"Call the cops..." Stephanie whispered, struggling to get the words out. "Let the law handle it..."

Edgar sneered and leaned down, placing his hands on both sides of her bed. His indifferent face was so close. "Have you forgotten who I am? I run the Ferguson Group. Do you think the cops will take your case?"

He straightened up and casually fixed his sleeves. "Even if you got the mayor involved, it's still useless.

"Just drop it. I'll lose interest in Amelia after a few months. Stop going after her."

With that, he turned around and walked out. As the door shut behind him, Stephanie finally broke down.

She bit her lip to keep from crying out loud, but her shaking shoulders gave her away.

Edgar didn't visit again for days.

Then, on the day she was getting released, he suddenly appeared.

"Get in." He stood at the ward door, his voice leaving no room for discussion.

Stephanie got into the car in silence. But soon, she realized they weren't headed home.

"Where are we going?" she asked.

"To the cruise ship," Edgar answered, one hand on the wheel and the other tugging his tie loose. "Today is Amelia's birthday. We're throwing her a party. You're going to apologize."

Stephanie stared at him like he'd lost it. "You want me to apologize to her?!"

"She's been distant these past few days." He glanced at her, frowning. "She probably feels guilty about hitting you."

"Edgar!" Her voice cracked. "I'm the one who got hit! I ended up with broken ribs!"

Squeak!

The loud screech of tires shattered the quiet.

Edgar hit the brakes hard and shot a look at Stephanie.

Outside the window, bright neon lights painted his sharp features, making him look distant and unapproachable.

"Stephanie." His voice was low but carried a sense of oppression. "Your grandmother is still in the hospital, right?

"If you don't want her hearing about this, then just do what I said."

Stephanie stared at him, stunned.

Was he seriously using her grandmother to threaten her?

Did he forget how he'd knelt before her grandmother three years ago in tears, pleading for a chance to be with her?

He'd said nice things back then.

"I'll protect Stephanie with my life. I'll never let anything bad happen to her."

But what about now?

Stephanie bit on her lip so hard that she tasted blood before she let go.

She turned to the window, watching the streetlights blur past. Her voice was barely a whisper. "...Fine."

***

The cruise ship was glowing with lights, and the tower of champagne glasses sparkled under the huge crystal chandelier.

Amelia stood at the center of a crowd. Her white dress made her skin glow, and her smile was charming.

"Mr. Ferguson treats you so nicely," one girl in pink said, eyeing her with envy. "This party is insane!"

"Exactly," another chimed in. "We wouldn't even be here if it weren't for you."

Amelia gave a bashful laugh and looked down, gently touching the diamond necklace that cost a fortune. "Come on, don't say that. Mr. Ferguson is already married, and his wife is our teacher."

"So what?" someone scoffed. "He clearly only cares about you now."

"Yeah," another girl added with a giggle, "That marriage is just for show at this point."

Just then, Edgar stepped into the scene. His tall frame cast a long shadow under the lights.

He ignored all the gossip, looked right at Stephanie, and said lightly, "Go apologize."

Everyone stared as Stephanie made her way over to Amelia. Her heels clunked against the deck with every step, each one heavier than the last. It felt like she was stomping on her heart.

"Ms. Sanchez?" Amelia blinked, surprised. "What brings you here?"

Stephanie's fingers dug into her palm. Her eyes were red. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have been hit by your car and made you feel guilty for days."

The guests started murmuring, glancing between Amelia and Stephanie.

"Seriously? She's the one who got hurt, and she's the one apologizing?"

"Mr. Ferguson is way too nice to Amelia."

"His marriage has just been a formality for a while now. Everyone can see that."

Stephanie stood there quietly, digging her nails deep into her palms, but she didn't feel anything.

Amelia tilted her chin up with pride. "Apology accepted."

Trying to act generous, she grabbed Stephanie's arm. "Since you're already here, come and hang out with us."

Before Stephanie could say no, Amelia's friend was already holding up a box. "Let's play something fun! Everyone pulls a number. Whoever gets six has to accept a punishment!"

In the first round, Stephanie unfolded her paper without emotion.

It was a six.

"Wow! Ms. Sanchez got it!" said a girl in pink, covering her mouth dramatically. "Your punishment is three tubes of mustard!"

Without flinching, Stephanie took them and forced them down, one after another.

The sharp heat shot up her nose. Tears spilled out of her eyes, and her stomach twisted like it was on fire.

Everyone around her burst out laughing.

"Wow, she did it!"

"Let's play again!"

In the second round, she got another six.

This time, bark like a dog three times!" the pink-dressed girl smirked.

Stephanie's face turned pale.

"That's too much." Her voice was shaky. "Pick something else."

"Come on, Ms. Sanchez," Amelia said, blinking innocently. "It's just a game. You should follow the rules."

Edgar walked over and wrapped an arm around Stephanie's shoulders. "Don't ruin the mood, Stephanie. Don't spoil Amelia's birthday."

Stephanie stared at his perfect face so close to her. Her chest felt like it might rip open.

"... Woof."

The first bark came out like she had to force it through her teeth.

"Woof... Woof..."

Each sound felt like it was tearing a piece of her pride apart.

People nearby giggled and whispered.

Stephanie bit her lips hard until she tasted blood.

In the third round, it was her again, of course.

"This time, chug all the wine on the table!"

A long row of liquor sat in front of her. Her stomach was already in pain.

"I can't drink," she said in a raspy voice.

"Aw, don't be like that." Amelia's friend laughed. "We've all been playing. Don't ruin it now."

Edgar was peeling grapes for Amelia. He glanced up and said, "Stephanie, don't start acting out."

She picked up the wine glass and drank one glass after another.

Her throat burned. Her stomach felt like knives were cutting it up inside.

By the time she got to the eighth glass, her body gave in. Blood poured from her mouth.

Bright red stained the white tablecloth, shocking to the eye.

"I... need to leave..." Stephanie got to her feet, but her vision was blurry.

"Don't go." Amelia frowned, almost maliciously. "We're just getting started."

Stephanie pulled away and stumbled outside.

The wind hit her hard as she reached the deck. She gripped the railing, trying to breathe.

Her stomach twisted again as she threw up more blood.

Then, everything went fuzzy. She lost her balance and slammed into the rail.

Splash!

Freezing water closed in around her.

Stephanie didn't know how to swim. Salt water filled her lungs and nose. She couldn't breathe.

She thrashed around in the water. Through the blur, she caught sight of someone moving on the deck.

"Help..."

She spotted Edgar racing toward the railing, ready to dive in. But then, a voice shouted, "Mr. Ferguson! Amelia passed out from an allergic reaction!"

Edgar stopped mid-step. Without a second thought, he turned around and ran back.

The last image burned into Stephanie's mind was Edgar hurrying away with Amelia in his arms.

The sea water rushed into her lungs, and then everything faded to black.

The sharp smell of disinfectant stung her nose. Stephanie slowly opened her eyes, staring up at the white hospital ceiling.

"You're finally awake," a nurse said as she adjusted the IV drip. "How are you feeling?"

Stephanie's throat ached as she asked, "Who brought me here?"

"The cruise ship staff," the nurse replied, handing her a cup of warm water. "You've been unconscious for two days. Should I help you call your family?"

Just then, the other nurses' discussions came from outside.

"Mr. Ferguson treats Ms. Gibson so well. He booked an entire hospital floor just because of a small allergy and even called in a bunch of specialists for her."

"Right? I heard that he stayed with her for two days and even skipped out on a big company meeting."

Stephanie gave a dry smile. "No need. I don't have anyone to call."

***

After getting released from the hospital, Stephanie returned to her empty home.

She started packing her things, tossing anything tied to Edgar into the trash like it meant nothing.

The first necklace he ever gave her, their wedding anniversary photo, the souvenirs he brought back from business trips—she threw them away.

While Edgar was off playing the perfect boyfriend to Amelia, he never even noticed what was disappearing from their home. Until one evening, he got back earlier than usual and saw Stephanie sitting there, staring into space.

"Why haven't you been at the college lately?" he asked casually, shrugging off his jacket and hanging it up.

Without looking at him, she replied, "I quit."

Edgar frowned. "What for? I thought everything was going fine."

"I'm exhausted," she said quietly. "I just don't want to do it anymore."

He didn't push. He nodded and went to pour himself a glass of water. After a moment, he remembered something. "Oh yeah, your old research project is finished, right?"

Stephanie froze. "What's wrong?"

"Amelia needs research achievements to secure a spot in the graduate program," he said, like it was no big deal. "Your project is impressive, so I let her publish it under her name."

"What?!" Stephanie jumped to her feet, her voice shaking. "That project took me three years!"

Edgar didn't even flinch. "It's just a research paper. No need to hold onto it."

She was shaking with anger. "I'm going to tell the principal everything!"

Grabbing her coat, she stormed out and headed straight for the campus.

Inside the principal's office, she explained the situation. The principal just sighed. "Stephanie, I get that you're upset. But Mr. Ferguson made the request.

"He donated several buildings to our college. We have no choice."

It felt like ice water ran through her veins.

Only then did she understand why Edgar wasn't worried at all.

He already knew that no matter how much she made a fuss, nothing would change.

Her marriage, her career, her pride—it had all been crushed under Edgar and Amelia's feet.

It started raining as she left the campus.

Stephanie didn't move. She just stood there, letting the rain soak her completely.

Her mind drifted back to a rainy night years ago. Edgar had been waiting outside her dorm, drenched, holding a rose that had been ruined by the storm.

He stood there stubbornly until she gave in and came downstairs.

"Stephanie, be with me. I'll love you forever. You'll be the only one."

Thinking about it now, those sweet words were like the rain—dramatic at that time, but meaningless once they dried up.

"Forever" was just something he said to sound romantic.

She slowly squatted down, hugged her knees, and finally let herself cry.

The next day, Stephanie was putting away the last of her things when the doorbell rang.

She opened the door and saw Amelia standing there with a fancy gift box.

"Edgar isn't here," Stephanie said flatly. "He left for work. You shouldn't be here."

"I know." Amelia smiled sweetly. "I came to see you."

She walked right in and placed the box on the table. "I just wanted to say thanks. If it weren't for your research, I wouldn't have won that award or gotten into the graduate program early."

She tilted her head and smirked. "And it's not just that one project. A bunch of your previous work is under my name now. Ms. Sanchez, you're indeed talented. Quitting was the best move for you."

She leaned closer, lowering her voice. "Now you'll have time to help me with my future projects. My career depends on you."

Stephanie stared at Amelia without flinching, her eyes calm. "Are you done? You can leave now."

Amelia was stunned. She clearly expected a different reaction.

"What's wrong, Ms. Sanchez?" she said sharply, "Are you so crushed that you can't even be mad anymore?"

Just then, the sound of a car engine came from outside. Edgar was back.

Amelia's eyes lit up. She suddenly stumbled backward, tears in her eyes. "Ms. Sanchez, please let me go! I promised I would go abroad and never bother Mr. Ferguson again! I don't want to die..."

Bang!

The door slammed open as Edgar stormed in, bringing a gust of cold air with him.

His eyes locked straight onto Amelia, who was crying. Without hesitation, he rushed over and shoved Stephanie aside.

"Stephanie, what the hell are you doing?!" he snapped, barely keeping his anger in check.

Caught off guard, Stephanie stumbled back, hitting the back of her head hard against the corner of the table. She felt warm blood slowly sliding down her neck.

"Edgar..." she whispered, her voice shaky, full of disbelief.

But he didn't even look at her.

All his focus was on Amelia, holding her close while his expression filled with worry.

"Mr. Ferguson..." She suddenly backed away from his arms, hugging herself like she was scared. "Let's keep our distance from now on. Please don't chase after me anymore..."

She turned and headed for the door, her shoulders trembling like she was about to fall apart.

"Don't go!" Edgar grabbed her wrist, stopping her.

Then, he turned toward Stephanie, eyes sharp and icy. "How dare you lay a hand on Amelia?! Looks like the last punishment didn't teach you anything."

He signaled his bodyguard. "Take her to the confinement room."

Stephanie stared at him in disbelief. "What did you just say?"

He repeated it, no emotion in his voice. "Lock you in the confinement room."

Her whole body went cold. Suddenly, her mind flashed back to that one rainy night long ago.

She'd been locked in a dark utility room because of someone's jealousy for her excellent work.

She was curled up in the corner, shaking uncontrollably due to claustrophobia. Back then, Edgar had kicked the door open and carried her out.

"Don't be scared," he'd said, voice gentle. "I'm here. No one is going to hurt you."

But now, Edgar was the one shoving her into that same dark space.

As the bodyguard dragged her away, Stephanie clung to the doorframe, pleading, "Edgar! You know I'm terrified of the dark!"

He hesitated for a second, then coldly said, "This time, no one is coming for you."

When the door slammed shut, the pitch-black room swallowed her whole.

She curled up in the corner and started pounding on the metal door. "Let me out! Edgar!"

No one responded.

Her breathing turned fast and shallow. Her mind played tricks on her. She felt like she was reliving that horrible night in the utility room.

But this time, she knew no one would show up.

After a long time, the door creaked open. Light poured in, blinding her.

"Do you realize what you did wrong?" Edgar asked, standing in the doorway. The backlight hid his expression.

Stephanie pushed herself up, her voice too hoarse to speak.

She walked right past him, her eyes dull and lifeless.

Days went by. Stephanie never stepped outside.

She packed her luggage blankly, skipped over Amelia's smug messages without opening them, and ignored the flood of missed calls from Edgar.

Then, she received a call from the hospital.

"Ms. Sanchez, your grandmother suffered a sudden brain bleed. Her condition is very serious. Please come immediately!"

Her hands turned cold. The phone nearly slipped out of her grip.

At the hospital, the air reeked of disinfectant, and voices echoed all around.

Stephanie ran stumblingly, but she suddenly froze when she turned a corner.

Edgar was hugging Amelia and coaxing her softly, "Don't be afraid. None of this is your fault."

She rested in his arms, eyes red like she'd been crying.

"You..." Stephanie's voice was shaking. "Why are you two here?"

Edgar looked up and casually said, "Amelia twisted her ankle. I brought her in."

Then, after a short pause, he added, "I didn't expect to meet your grandmother."

Stephanie felt a chill wash over her. "What did you do in front of her?"

"Nothing," he said flatly. "She just saw me holding Amelia. Maybe she misunderstood, got upset, and..."

"She misunderstood?" Stephanie let out a bitter laugh. "She saw you two hug each other, and you think that's just a misunderstanding?"

"Stephanie!" Edgar's face darkened. "I called in top doctors. Your grandmother will be fine."

Just then, the operating room lights flicked off.

A doctor came out, pulled off his mask, and shook his head heavily. "I'm sorry. We did everything we could. She passed peacefully. Her final wish was for you to find happiness..."

Stephanie's world fell apart in that moment.

She saw the doctor's mouth moving, but couldn't hear any sound.

There was only a sharp ringing in the ears and the roaring of blood rushing to the temples.

She staggered towards the covered white cart, trembling fingers grasping the edge of the fabric. When she suddenly lost the courage to lift it.

She didn't tear open the white cloth until the cold tears dripped onto the back of her hand.

Grandma's peaceful face came into view, but she would never again show her kind smile.

"Grandma..." she choked, tears splashing onto the old woman's cold face, "I am Stephanie... look at me..."

"Wake up, please wake up. You said... you wanted to see our baby being born. Don't leave me, I only have you!"

Edgar stood to the side, his eyes flashing with a rare hint of guilt.

He was about to step forward when Amelia suddenly screamed and fell to the ground.

"My feet... hurt so much... she said, looking at Edgar with red eyes, looking pitiful."

Edgar's footsteps came to a halt.

He glanced at Stephanie, who was crying almost to the point of shock, then looked at Amelia, who was teary-eyed. In the end, he turned and walked towards the latter.

"I'll take Amelia to see the doctor first," his voice was soft, yet it felt like a sharp ice pick stabbing into Stephanie's already broken heart, "You... wait for me for a while."

Stephanie did not answer.

She just held her grandmother's gradually cold body tightly, crying as if she were a child abandoned by the whole world, her heart torn apart.

The medical staff in the corridor all had red eyes, and some quietly turned their faces to wipe away tears.

And Edgar, holding Amelia in his arms, walked out of her sight step by step.

She cried so painfully that in the end, everything went black before her eyes, and she passed out completely.

***

When he woke up again, Edgar was rarely sitting by the bed.

"I have arranged everything for my grandmother's funeral," he said in a low voice. "The cemetery is chosen in the best suburb of the city, and the funeral..."

"Get lost, Stephanie interrupted him hoarsely."

Edgar frowned, "Stephanie, don't be unreasonable. It was just an accident, and I have done my best to make amends."

Stephanie didn't say anything else, she lifted the covers and got out of bed.

Her movements were slow, as if all her strength had been drained away.

On the day of the funeral, it was drizzling continuously.

Stephanie stood in front of the grave, with rain mixing with tears streaming down her face.

When the last handful of soil fell, her legs went weak and she almost knelt down on the ground.

A pair of hands caught her just in time.

"Don't touch me, Stephanie snapped, pushing Edgar away."

Edgar's face looked grim. "How long do you plan to keep causing trouble?"

He grabbed her wrist and said, "I cancelled all my work these days to be with you. I also arranged my grandmother's affairs properly. What else do you want from me?"

Stephanie looked up at him, her eyes empty. "I want you to stay away from me."

Edgar took a deep breath and said, "Fine, since you don't know any better, I'll go keep Amelia company now."

"Go ahead," Stephanie suddenly laughed, "Haven't you always wanted me to be generous? Now I'll grant your wish."

Edgar paused for a moment, then showed a satisfied expression, "It's good that you've figured it out."

"I promised you that I would return to the family in ten years and spend the second half of my life with you every day. So, please don't make trouble during these ten years. I don't have time to pacify you every day."

When he turned around and left, his steps were light, as if he had unloaded a heavy burden.

Stephanie watched his back as a faint smile of bitterness crept onto her lips.

She didn't want him anymore.

For the rest of his life, he would just guard Amelia's past.

In the following days, Edgar did not go home.

Stephanie didn't mind, she just quietly packed up the last of her belongings.

The night before he left, Edgar came back unexpectedly.

"Edgar," she called out to him, her voice calm, "Tomorrow at ten o'clock, there is a big gift for you."

She paused, "Right at the courthouse entrance, we'll go pick it up together."

Edgar was taken aback for a moment. "You want to give me a gift? What day is tomorrow?"

The nanny on the side couldn't help but interrupt: "Sir, tomorrow is your and your wife's wedding anniversary."

The air suddenly became quiet.

Edgar's expression momentarily blanked, and Stephanie also froze.

Tomorrow was their wedding anniversary.

In the past, Edgar used to start preparing surprises a month in advance, he would personally write greeting cards, customize unique gifts, and take her to the place where they had their first date to relive old memories.

And she would also carefully prepare, learning to cook his favorite dishes, staying up late to knit scarves, even if her fingers were sore from being pricked by the needles.

But now, both of them have forgotten.

Just like this marriage, it should have been forgotten a long time ago.

Edgar cleared his throat and said, "Alright, then let's meet at the courthouse."

The next morning, when Stephanie woke up, Edgar was already not at home.

She calmly washed up, changed into a simple white shirt and jeans, and finally looked around the home that was once full of memories.

Then, she carried her suitcase and took a taxi to the courthouse.

At ten to ten, she got the divorce certificate.

At ten o'clock sharp, Edgar did not show up.

At ten past ten, she dialed his number.

It took a long time for the call to be answered, Edgar's voice sounded impatient: "I have something to do right now, I can't come over temporarily. Please take the 'big gift' back home."

He was about to hang up when he heard Amelia's coquettish voice on the other end of the phone: "Mr. Ferguson, this necklace is so beautiful! I never expected you to remember our anniversary so clearly, even though we've only known each other for a few months..."

Stephanie mocked as she curled up her lips.

So that's how it was.

She hung up the phone, found a runner to deliver the divorce certificate to the villa, then deleted all contact information for Edgar and Amelia, and took a taxi to the airport.

In the airport terminal, the announcement rang out: "Boarding for flight CA937 to London is now beginning..."

Stephanie grabbed her suitcase and walked towards the boarding gate without looking back.

Behind him, everything that belonged to Edgar became a thing of the past with that divorce certificate.

This time, she was finally free!