Cecilia Bradshaw received evidence of her husband cheating and watched the video on a loop.

Kolton Thompson was never this excited or unrelenting when they had sex.

In the video, a woman knocked on the door of Kolton's hotel room at 11 pm. Kolton opened the door in his bathrobe. The woman left three hours later.

The time stamp showed it happened yesterday. The third day of Kolton's business trip.

Maybe Kolton hired a hooker to pass the lonely night.

He was always libidinous. In the two years of their marriage, Cecilia rarely had a peaceful night.

Did hiring a hooker count as cheating?

From what her parents taught Cecilia about marriage, it didn't. Still, the thought didn't make Cecilia feel better.

Cecilia put down her phone and stared at the melting cake.

Kolton wasn't a romantic man and never celebrated Cecilia's birthday for her. But today was Kolton's birthday. Knowing Kolton didn't like cream, Cecilia learned how to make an ice cream one.

The weather was cold as it was fall. But after the long wait, the cake was melting. The decorative tiger looked ridiculous as it almost fell down.

Cecilia didn't have the leisure to think whether she should just eat the cake or call Kolton to ask when he was coming home. The video filled her mind. Cecilia didn't even notice Kolton's car had entered the yard.

The door opened.

Kolton's familiar footsteps were getting more and more clear.

Cecilia looked in the direction as Kolton emerged from the dim-lit corridor.

Kolton had long dark brown eyes, a straight nose, and thin lips. Wrapped in the custom-made black suits, the man looked like an aristocrat.

Cecilia had seen this beautiful face every day for two years. But the sight of Kolton still made her heart skip a beat every time.

Kolton was a handsome man with a strong build. He was competent and his family was influential. Frankly, Cecilia couldn't find any flaw in Kolton even if she nitpicked.

Inevitably, she fell in love with Kolton at first sight. It was when they met for their marriage contract.

Because she loved Kolton, Cecilia agreed to stay a secret. She gave up her dream to be the Mrs. Thompson that no one knew about. Her life became rotated around Kolton like a good wife, just like what Jasmin Pearson, her mom, had done.

Did Kolton return her feelings... Cecilia remembered one thing. Two years ago, her family nearly went bankrupt over a failed investment. Garrett Bradshaw, her dad, planned to marry Cecilia to an old man for his money. Kolton came forward and saved Cecilia by agreeing to fulfill the marriage contract.

So...Kolton must like her too.

The video was sent by an unknown number and the faces in it were blurry. Cecilia convinced herself that it was a misunderstanding.

And it was Kolton's birthday... She'd ask him about it tomorrow.

"You said six pm when I called." Cecilia got up and greeted Kolton, catching his black suit jacket. A strong whiff of perfume surprised Cecilia.

She paused and looked at Kolton.

"Occupied by work," Kolton said curtly and frowned as he noticed the cake on the table.

"Happy birthday!" Pushing her doubts aside, Cecilia was back to her good wife's role. Her two dimples showed as she beamed at Kolton with bright eyes.

Kolton remained as indifferent as ever as if he didn't hear her. He loosened his tie with one slender hand, his tanned chest looming. "I need something to sober up."

Besides perfume, he was reek of alcohol.

As ordered, Cecilia got up and headed to the kitchen. "Take a bath. I've prepared it."

She turned around when there was no reply. Kolton was already upstairs.

It wasn't the first time he ignored her. At first, Cecilia was upset. Later, she got used to it.

Jasmin told her that men were all like this. So, gradually, Cecilia had believed it was acceptable.

Maybe it was the video. This time, Cecilia had the urge to shout at Kolton. It took her a while to push the anger down.

She made soup and repaired the cake, trying to make it look less awful.

In her mind, Kolton ignored her happy birthday because he was drunk and not feeling well.

He'd taste the cake when he felt better.

After salvaging the cake, the soup was ready. Cecilia picked up her phone to call Kolton.

Once she clicked it open, a piece of news popped up.

"CEO of NimbusCore Group throws a lavish birthday for his VP. Are they a couple?"

Cecilia's heart sank a little and she started reading.

There were photos.

Kolton's first two buttons were open and his hand was holding another woman's hand as they cut a six-layer cake.

The fine print underneath the photo stated that the woman was Iris Velasquez, VP of NimbusCore Group.

According to the resource, Kolton planned this party personally. It was his surprise to Iris.

The tens of thousands of employees all received a bonus on this big day.

Iris and Kolton shared the same birthday. At the party, they exchanged gifts and sang the birthday song together.

So, Kolton was busy planning a party.

When Cecilia called him this afternoon, he said he was busy at work.

Meaning, that when Cecilia tried her hardest to surprise Kolton on his birthday, Kolton was trying his best to give Iris a surprise.

The present he gave Iris was a piece of jewelry of an international brand. It cost at least six figures.

Iris gave Kolton a tie and fed him the cake.

Kolton's usually blank face looked gentle as he looked at Iris fondly.

From these photos, Cecilia recognized Iris. She was the woman who entered Kolton's hotel room.

Same wavy long hair and same hourglass figure.

Cecilia started thinking.

Kolton went on business trips frequently, leaving home from two days to a week.

During the trips, he never answered Cecilia's calls or returned her texts.

Was it because he was with Iris?

When Cecilia tossed and turned, missing Kolton, he was in bed with another woman?

So, the video wasn't a misunderstanding.

As if she had been struck by lightning, Cecilia froze, all colors leaving her face.

She was scared to think how long Kolton had been with Iris. All these times, she had been kept in the dark like a fool!

On their wedding day, Kolton said he wanted a full-time housewife. That was why Cecilia gave up her dream.

Because of a few words slipping out from him, Cecilia had been trapped in this house for two years. But now, she finally figured out that Kolton liked strong women like Iris.

Cecilia couldn't lie to herself anymore. Every time she found something was off, Jasmin would tell her to bear with it. Cecilia had tolerated many things, but cheating wouldn't be one of them!

"Pack a suitcase for me," Kolton said coldly from upstairs. He came down, looking less unapproachable in a dark gray housecoat, his hair no longer combed back.

Looking tired, Kolton sat down next to Cecilia and drank the soup without a word. He didn't even bother to spare Cecilia a glance.

Cecilia's phone was on the table with its screen on. The photo of Iris feeding Kolton the cake was in plain sight.

Kolton glanced at it and continued drinking the soup. Clearly, he wasn't going to explain.

"Is throwing a birthday party for your employee a part of your job?" Cecilia couldn't stand the silence and asked angrily.

It was the first time she questioned Kolton in their marriage.

Frowning, Kolton looked at Cecilia, his expression complex. "Of course."

"You never told me your VP was a woman. She works side by side with you every day." Cecilia grew angrier over Kolton's nonchalant attitude.

"No need." Kolton gulped down the soup and got up, returning upstairs.

Cecilia blew up because of Kolton's indifference. At that moment, she forgot Jasmin's lessons about a good wife. She got up and stood in Kolton's way. "No need?! What does that mean? You're my husband. The party. The present. They all come from our money. I have the right to know and decide..."

"What about it?" Kolton raised his voice slightly. "It's just a few hundred thousand. I need your permission for it? You never cared about our money when your family took hundreds of millions from me!"

Although their marriage was a secret, the Bradshaw family took every chance to get business from Kolton. Cecilia was aware of that.

Still, she was confused. "The situations are different! We're married! You can't compare us this way."

"No, you're no match for her!" The disdain in Kolton's eyes wounded Cecilia like a sharp knife. "The money I spent on Iris is just pocket change in comparison to the business she brings to our company! How could you compete with her?"

Cecilia's heart broke into a thousand pieces.

She'd never seen Kolton act so cold.

The man had lost control and whispered sweet nothing into her ears when they had sex.

"Since she's so perfect, you should've married her, not me!" Cecilia felt the pricks in her eyes, her voice shaking. "You married me because you loved me, no?"

Cecilia's vision blurred. She could only vaguely make out Kolton's figure. However, Kolton's indifferent expression was still clear.

It seemed he was mocking her naiveness. Why would he like someone like her?

Kolton said impatiently, "Are you done?"

He refused to talk to a woman who had lost her senses. Kolton walked past Cecilia to go upstairs.

Kolton's dismissive attitude was the last straw. Cecilia snapped.

"Let's divorce!" she shouted, her eyes subconsciously closed as it took all her strength to say the words.

A loveless marriage wasn't what she wanted!

Kolton had kept Iris out of their argument, blaming everything on Cecilia being unreasonable. So, Cecilia didn't want to bring up the video.

Kolton wasn't going to admit the affair. If Cecilia had it out, she'd only get humiliated and abandoned!

"Your allowance is 85,000 dollars per month. All you need to do is tend to the house and sleep with me. It's a great deal." Kolton stopped, his brows knitting tightly. "Stop this ruckus."

Cecilia was heartbroken because of him. But he only thought she was being unreasonable.

"A deal?" Hot tears ran down Cecilia's cheeks as she looked into Kolton's icy eyes. "Am I your wife or your sex toy?"

Cecilia didn't think marriage only contained receiving his money and having sex with him.

If she only did that, didn't it make her a hooker? The only difference was her marriage license. So, their deal wasn't illegal.

Was this Kolton's idea of marriage?

It couldn't be. The surprise party he threw for Iris would make all women envy. Cecilia suddenly realized that in Kolton's eyes, only Iris deserved a happy marriage!

A snide smile crept on Kolton's lips, disdain glimmering in his eyes. "Am I wrong? What can you do after divorcing me? Your family won't let you back! Cecilia, grow up! Know what's best for you!"

"I'm a capable person and can live on my own." Cecilia forced herself to stop crying and beat Kolton to their room. She dragged out a white suitcase from the dressing room's corner and started packing.

A heartless father and a self-deprecating mother. Cecilia had enough of her family and didn't want to go back!

With a gloomy expression, Kolton followed Cecilia upstairs. Instead of stopping her, he watched Cecilia pack coldly.

At 4 am, the sky was pitch dark. In the room, it was as bright as daytime. With a pale face, Cecilia zipped her suitcase and walked out of the dressing room.

Kolton stood and let Cecilia walk past him. "Cecilia, I don't have the patience. I won't go beg you to come home."

"See you at the courthouse at 9 am tomorrow." Cecilia's heart broke a little more over Kolton's words.

Impatience, anger, and hate. She'd heard them all in Kolton's voice.

"I'm busy. Call my assistant and make an appointment. For old time's sake, if you regret it before we go to the courthouse, I can pretend this never happened."

Kolton looked over his shoulder and saw a full suitcase.

Cecilia had packed her photo on the bedside table and her two plushy toys.

Kolton felt annoyed like an employee he valued was quitting. How ungrateful.

Kolton would give Cecilia what she wanted. In the past two years, Cecilia could spend his money without restriction and he'd entrusted her with all the family things.

He didn't understand what Cecilia was upset about. But he was sure Cecilia would come back.

The Bradshaw family wouldn't let her divorce Kolton. She'd only get scolded and be sent back.

Although Cecilia claimed she could support herself, Kolton didn't think much of it.

Cecilia had been spoiled since she was little. She couldn't handle the life of an ordinary officer worker.

Despite what Kolton thought, he felt more annoyed as he watched Cecilia leave without looking back.

Kolton walked out of the bedroom and stood by the railing on the second floor. As Cecilia picked up the car key in the foyer, he said lowly, "I bought you that car."

It was a cheap one. Less than 30,000 dollars. And indeed, it was from Kolton.

Cecilia didn't pick an expensive car because she just got her driver's license at that time. And she was afraid of damaging the car. Kolton paid for the car after Cecilia picked it.

He gave Iris a six-figure present, but he wouldn't let her have this 30,000-dollar car.

The wind in the fall was chilling. Yellow leaves scattered on the ground, making the scene look sadder.

Disappointed, Cecilia clenched the car key and took in a long breath before throwing it down. She picked up her suitcase and walked out.

Outside, the night wind disheveled her long hair. Her slim figure was slowly engulfed in the dark night.

Kolton watched her leave until the door was shut with a loud sound. Kolton blinked his long eyes slowly and returned to the bedroom. Standing in front of the floor-to-ceiling window, he fixed his gaze on the lone figure under the street light.

Their mansion was in the suburb. There was at least an hour's drive to downtown.

Without a car or a bus, Cecilia couldn't even walk out of the neighborhood.

Kolton was convinced of that. But as time passed, his confidence started cracking. In this end, it shattered completely.

Carrying her suitcase, Cecilia walked in the cold wind. She walked and walked and eventually, disappeared from his sight.

Kolton scoffed. Besides being ungrateful, he found another character trait of Cecilia - foolishly stubborn.

***

Cecilia didn't call Veronica Harrington, her best friend until she was outside of the neighborhood.

When Veronica found Cecilia, Cecilia had spent an hour in the chilling wind. Her curly eyelashes were coated in frost.

The hand she used to haul her suitcase was red and dry due to the cold.

Veronica jumped out of her car, shoved Cecilia into her car, and threw the suitcase in the trunk before returning to the driver's seat.

On the phone, all Cecilia said was she was divorcing Kolton. Veronica had so many questions.

But when she saw a lost Cecilia, she didn't know how to begin.

Veronica turned the heat up. Soon, the frost on Cecilia's brows and lashes melt.

The mist clouded Cecilia's eyes. Cecilia thought she could stay strong. But at that moment, she broke down, tears running down uncontrollably.

Fat tears landed on her red hands. They were scorching as if her skin were being burned by fire.

"Cecilia, did you and Kolton argue because of Iris' birthday party?"

The news was on the trending topic. Veronica couldn't miss it.

"It's not just an argument. We're getting divorced." Cecilia's eyes were dull, but her tone was firm.

Veronica automatically frowned and said in a small voice, "Didn't you ask him about it first? Maybe it's a misunderstanding."

"See this and you'll understand."

Cecilia took out her phone and clicked on the video before handing it to Veronica.

She didn't ask Kolton whether he was cheating on her or not. Kolton's attitude already gave her the answer.

Veronica glanced at the video and hurriedly pulled over.

"Damn!" Veronica had a temper that matched her fiery hair.

"That jerk cheated! Shouldn't he feel ashamed? How dare he let you leave the house at midnight? He's the one who should be kicked out with nothing!"

Cecilia took her phone back. "I didn't show it to him."

Veronica was confused. "But he's in the wrong. Why?"

"I'll only embarrass myself if this thing gets bigger."

What if she revealed the affair? What possibly could Cecilia change?

Could she leave Kolton with nothing in the divorce?

No, that was impossible.

The Bradshaw family was weaker than the Thompson family, not to mention that her parents wouldn't support her.

After all, her family depended on the Thompson family.

Veronica opened and closed her mouth, swallowing the words she planned to say. She started the car again.

The Harrington family was important in Sevarin too. Veronica's parents bought her a house when she graduated from college.

It was an expensive single studio in downtown.

They arrived at the crack of dawn.

Cecilia put down her suitcase and sat on the couch. She spaced out.

Looking at her upset friend, Veronica asked, "What's your plan?"

"I'm calling Kolton's assistance to schedule a date to the courthouse."

Cecilia paused before adding, "Then I'll get a job to support myself."

85,000 dollars was a lot of money. It could cover a person's expenses for two years.

But Cecilia had to use the money to tend to Kolton's life. And she demanded only the best for him.

Every week, she had to bring gifts to visit his family in the Thompsons' manor. Therefore, Cecilia didn't have any money left.

At the moment, she only had 8,000 dollars.

"In this case, before you find a job, you're coming to help me." Veronica didn't want to leave Cecilia to her sorrow.

However, Veronica really needed a hand. "The pianist I booked stood me up."

Veronica ran a few high-end restaurants of her family's. And every night, there would be a famous pianist performing for the guests.

Cecilia had practiced piano since she was little. She was qualified as she played like a pro.

Cecilia understood what Veronica was doing. She needed things to keep her mind off Kolton. "OK."

Veronica was busy and couldn't stay at home to accompany Cecilia.

"Take a nap. Go to the restaurant in the Eastern District this afternoon. My workload won't allow me to return here to pick you up."

"I get it. Focus on your work." Cecilia and Veronica had been friends since they were babies. They went to the same schools, starting from kindergarten.

The two went to different universities, but it didn't affect their friendship.

The Bradshaw family's decline only made it stronger.

In front of Veronica, Cecilia could just be herself.

After saying goodbye to Veronica, Cecilia called Trenton Sanford, Kolton's assistant. She asked when Kolton would have time.

"Mrs. Thompson, is this a prank?" It took Trenton to recover. "You can talk to Mr. Thompson after he goes home tonight."

"We're scheduling a date for the divorce." Cecilia cut to the chase.

Tears pricked her eyes as Cecilia said those words, a lump forming in her throat.

But Cecilia told herself to stay strong and tilted her head up.

Trenton gasped, "OK. Mr. Thompson's schedule is full this week!"

"Next week will do too," Cecilia choked out, her hand gripping her blouse.

"I'll have to check when I return to the office. Let me call you back."

It wasn't something Trenton could decide for Kolton. Once he hung up, he called Kolton.

Kolton was waiting for Cecilia to come home, yet he got her request for the appointment first.

Kolton was enraged.

He laughed angrily, "How dare she?!"

Trenton picked up on the unpleasant tone and said, "I'll try my best to delay it."

"Not necessary," Kolton smirked mockingly. "Tell her next week is fine!"

If he delayed it, it'd look like he was reluctant to divorce Cecilia. Kolton gave it three days. Three days and Cecilia would beg him to take her back.

Trenton texted Cecilia back, informing her Kolton would see her at the courthouse, at 9 am, next Wednesday.

Cecilia was tired but she couldn't sleep.

Sadness filled her heart after the call.

Lying on the bed, Cecilia listened to her frantic heartbeat.

In the end, she couldn't keep the tears at bay anymore. They slipped down from the corners of her eyes and wet her hair, soaking the pillow.

When she received Trenton's text, the last ray of hope died completely. She wondered why she even had hope in the first place.

Cecilia was utterly disappointed.

What was she expecting? Would Kolton apologize and ask her not to divorce him?

Kolton wasn't a man who'd apologize.

And Cecilia couldn't forgive him for cheating!

Two years wasn't a long time. But in these two years, she only had eyes for Kolton.

Cecilia had devoted too much to this marriage.

To the point that she'd forgotten...what her life was like before she got married.

In the afternoon, Cecilia pushed down her sorrow and put on light makeup before heading to the restaurant in the Eastern District.

Due to the traffic, there were many guests in the house when she arrived.

Veronica knew Cecilia was arriving and found time to wait for her at the door.

Once Cecilia exited the taxi, Veronica walked over.

"I forgot that you needed a car."

"It's fine." Cecilia followed Veronica into the restaurant.

Veronica had prepared a dress and took her to the dressing room.

"You look off. Didn't you take a nap?"

The makeup failed to hide Cecilia's paleness. She shook her head. "I'm fine."

Changing into the dress Veronica prepared, Cecilia lifted the hem slightly off the floor as she walked to the imported piano in the center of the room.

There were music sheets on it.

Cecilia took a deep breath and placed her dainty fingers on the keys. Beautiful music filled the restaurant.

In a VIP booth on the second floor, a man in white sat by the window.

Hearing the music, he glanced down and leaned over to whisper something to the foreigner sitting across from him.

Five minutes later, the first song had ended. A waiter came up to Cecilia.

"Ms. Bradshaw, a guest in the VIP booth wants you to go to their booth and play a love song."

There was another expensive piano in the VIP booth. Veronica couldn't let just any pianist touch it.

However, Veronica had faith in Cecilia. She agreed once the guest requested Cecilia to perform for them.

Cecilia went upstairs and entered the room elegantly as the waiter opened the door for her.

Bright yellow light illuminated the booth, giving it a romantic and graceful vibe.

A burgundy tablecloth covered the square table. Light reflected on the wine glasses and shone on the three people by the table.

Cecilia stopped dead on her feet as she looked up and met Kolton's dark gaze.

The black customized suit Kolton wore was straight and neat. With short hair, he gave a brisk impression. His eyes were gorgeous.

His rolled-up sleeves revealed his Patek Philippe watch.

Each move of his embodied his success.

Iris, who sat next to him, wore a white business suit.

Her long, black, wavy hair cascaded down.

She had a strong aura. But beside Kolton, she looked like a woman needing protection.

Opposite them was seated a foreign man in his forties.

So, this wasn't a date but a business meeting.

But still, Cecilia's heart ached to see Kolton and Iris together.

When she eyed them, they looked at her.

Kolton squinted his narrow eyes.

Cecilia wore a Burgundy red suit dress in a grunge style, leaving her kelp-like long hair down.

Her small face looked innocent and seductive. Yet these two extreme airs were perfectly compatible on her.

Kolton always knew Cecilia was pretty. But he had no idea she could be so breathtaking.

They had been married for two years. He had never taken her to a formal occasion once. He had only seen her in pajamas at home.

This new side of Cecilia amazed him.

Kolton figured she must've learned his whereabouts from Trenton. She came here to check on him and pretended it was a coincidence.

A mocking smile crept onto Kolton's lips. He could see through her little tricks at a glance.

Seeing that Kolton was staring at Cecilia, the foreigner asked fluently in a foreign language, "Mr. Thompson, you know her?"

Kolton withdrew his gaze and replied nonchalantly, "No."

Did she think he would spare her feelings? No way.

His icy attitude was embarrassing.

Cecilia felt like her heart was smashed when she heard his response.

She bit her lower lip to force herself to face the situation. Now that she had come up, she couldn't just turn around and leave.

The consumers of this restaurant were rich and powerful. If she made a scene, the restaurant's reputation would be marred.

The color had drained from her fingers, which were clutching her skirt. After a deep breath, Cecilia walked toward the piano.

The song they requested was the famous "Canon."

The lyrics were about a man's appreciation and love for a woman.

Cecilia stared at the score for a long while before playing.

She didn't know who requested this song.

The foreigner quipped, "Mr. Thompson, you have an outstanding woman like Ms. Velasquez working for you. How I envy you!"

"She's indeed amazing," Kolton complimented Iris with a smile.

Iris smiled in a natural and poised manner. "I wasn't like this when I entered this industry. Kolton was a good mentor."

The prelude of this song was too quiet to drown the dialogue.

Cecilia had memorized the score. She didn't have to look at it.

Her eyes involuntarily landed on the trio at the table.

Kolton leaned toward Iris with his hand on the back of her chair.

Iris talked with the foreigner about business in his mother tongue from time to time.

She whispered to Kolton now and then.

Although Cecilia knew the foreigner's language, she didn't understand the technical terms.

There seemed to be a special connection between Kolton and Iris. One look was all they needed to understand each other.

They coped with the foreigner easily.

Five minutes passed, but it felt like a century for Cecilia.

The song ended. Cecilia stopped playing. The music lingered in the room. The conversation between the diners became clear.

"You two make a perfect couple!" The foreigner gained little from this cooperation.

Nonetheless, he complimented Kolton and Iris sincerely.

Kolton frowned to hear his words.

But he didn't clarify things.

The foreigner didn't know Kolton's mother tongue well, after all. He didn't realize he was using the expression wrong.

Iris smiled, "Thank you, Mr. Stewart."

Cecilia's mouth twitched. She withdrew her gaze from Kolton.

Perhaps he thought she was embarrassing. Except for when she came in, he didn't look at her again afterward.

It was like, if he so much as glanced at her, other people would know she was his wife, and he'd be humiliated.

Veronica treasured this piano. The other pianists weren't allowed to touch it.

But in the rich's eyes, pianists like her were just inferior entertainers who waited on people.

Cecilia should go. But somehow, she stared at the smoking Kolton absent-mindedly and didn't move.

Then, Iris stood up and walked to her with her purse.

She took out a wad of banknotes, probably $200, and handed it to Cecilia.

"You played well. Here's a tip from my boyfriend and me."

Iris spoke in a low voice.

Boyfriend. Tip.

The words stabbed at Cecilia's heart like a blade. She looked at Iris.

The latter seemed calm. But there was a triumphant look in her eyes.

Cecilia guessed Iris knew who she was. Most likely, the unknown number sending her the video had something to do with Iris.

Cecilia could put up with Kolton's neglect, but Iris' provocation was too much.

She was about to retort when Kolton said, "Why are you still here?"

He was giving her this warning look.

If she knew better, she wouldn't have come here to find him. He'd forgive her if she apologized when they got home.

The look in his eyes was hurtful. Cecilia took the money and left.

Iris challenged her because Kolton was on her side. Cecilia didn't stand a chance of winning this round.

It would be silly of her to reject money for her pride. She'd only end up humiliating herself.

She continued to play in the lobby. Her work wasn't done until 10 p.m.

When Veronica went to bring around the car, Cecilia got changed and waited for her at the entrance.

The night was cool in early autumn. She wrapped her clothes closer and tucked her hands in the pockets. Her eyes were fixed on the desolate street.

Kolton walked over from behind her. He stopped next to her, took out a cigarette, and had it between his lips.

Squinting at her, he said, "Don't find me at such places again. We can talk at home."

Cecilia turned to him. Kolton was a head taller than her. Under the light spilling over his head, he seemed to be glowing.

He had impeccable features. With the cigarette between his lips, his jawline was clear.

Cecilia had thought she was dead inside. But now that her elegant and distinguished husband was standing right before her, she felt alive again.

But meanwhile, the pain was back and deepened.

In his eyes, she was too inferior. That was why he was certain she had come for him.

"You misunderstood. I came to do Veronica a favor."

Cecilia stepped away to keep a distance between them.

This woman was a hard nut to crack! With a grim look in his eyes, Kolton blew out a mouthful of smoke.

"Whatever the reason, don't come here again. It's embarrassing." His cold tone stung.

"Our marriage wasn't publicized. Nobody knows I'm your wife. If it bothers you so much, let's get divorced tomorrow."

They were husband and wife. They used to be intimate in the quiet night. But right now, tension built up between them.

Kolton sneered. With his tongue sticking against his cheek, he scoffed, "Playing hard-to-get? It won't work. You'll regret it."

Cecilia turned her head in case he spotted her reddening eyes.

Just then, his client walked over from behind him.

"Mr. Thompson, I'm looking forward to smooth cooperation between us."

The mockery exclusive to Cecilia vanished from Kolton's eyes, replaced by a smile.

"Likewise. You can stay for more days, so Iris can show you around."

The foreigner laughed. "I won't dare to steal your girl. She's all yours."

Iris brought the car around. She got out, went up the steps, and stood beside Kolton.

"Mr. Stewart, I'll drive you to the hotel," she offered.

The foreigner was flattered. "I'm honored, Ms. Velasquez."

Kolton leaned toward Iris, put his hand on her waist, and whispered, "Drive safely."

She nodded.

Before she left with the client, she didn't even look at Cecilia.

It was like she didn't recognize Cecilia in another outfit. Or perhaps, she was just ignoring her.

Watching them walk away, Cecilia pressed her lips together.

This was their first encounter. She had to admit Iris was remarkable.

Was she Kolton's type?

When he looked at Iris, adoration and appreciation were evident in his eyes. He had never looked at Cecilia that way.

She couldn't imagine what she was like in his eyes.

Iris was special to Kolton. He couldn't even be bothered to hide it from Cecilia. What was she to him? Dirt?

Cecilia bowed her head. Her fair neck showed. Her ears were still red from the bicker.

The look in Kolton's eyes grew intense.

In that outfit, she was ravishing tonight. He couldn't get her out of his mind.

His Adam's apple bobbed. He walked closer to her and took out his car keys from his pocket. When he spoke, he still sounded condescending.

"Did you drive your car?"

He knew the answer. He was giving her an opportunity to go home with him.

Against his expectations, Cecilia missed it.

"I have only one thing to do with you now. That is, I'm divorcing you. Whether I came in my car or not, it's none of your business."

Kolton's face darkened. He was irritated.

By talking to her, he was throwing her a bone. How ungrateful she was.

"Cecilia, I'm running out of patience. Don't push me!"

This wasn't how he had talked to Iris.

After seeing how he had treated her and Iris differently, Cecilia felt like she was about to be devoured by negative feelings.

Her throat tightened. She couldn't speak. And her eyes became moist.

"Where does this rat come from?" Veronica called out as soon as she came back. She walked around Cecilia.

With a horrified look, she said, "Why didn't you run? Rats bite!" She was alluding to Kolton.

Spoiled by her brother and parents, Veronica was fearless. She'd insult anyone she didn't like in the Sevarin Business Community.

Much as the Harrington family wasn't as rich as the Thompson family, they were business partners.

Regarding that, Kolton wouldn't be mad at Veronica.

However, Veronica only got worse.

Slighted by Kolton, Cecilia was often sad. Veronica would tell him off whenever she had a chance.

But it was never so serious. She humiliated Kolton this time.

Afraid that Kolton would take offense, Cecilia meant to leave with her. "Vivi, let's go."

Veronica glared at Kolton. Her lips were moving, but no words came out. But apparently, she was calling him names.

Cecilia dragged Veronica to the car. After they got in, Veronica still felt dissatisfied.

She rolled down the car window and yelled, "Kolton! Cecilia will be a renowned designer. You're out of her league!"

Cecilia gasped. She hastened to roll up the window frantically and urged Veronica to start the engine.

They drove away.

But Veronica's words rang in Kolton's ears. The street night view was reflected in his sharp eyes.

After a while, he called Trenton. "What was Cecilia's major in college?"

It was silent for a few seconds at the other end of the line. Then, Trenton answered, "Interior design."

"Keep an eye on her. Don't let her work in any design company."

Kolton didn't think what he was doing was wrong.

The Harrington family was rich enough to support her for the rest of her life.

Since Cecilia didn't follow the rules, he wouldn't be lenient.

He didn't think he was bullying her, either. He was helping her realize her mistake.

***

"Why are you afraid?" With her hands on the wheel, Veronica was still pissed.

"You're his wife. Even though it was two vs. one, you can't let your cheating husband and the homewrecker win!"

Cecilia wanted to say that, she, the so-called wife, was more like a joke.

"For me and the Bradshaw family, angering Kolton is unwise."

A scandal of the Thompson family would only complicate their divorce.

Two families would be involved.

"Cecilia, did you tell your family you're getting a divorce?"

Veronica stopped the car at the traffic lights.

Cecilia shook her head. "No."

Her family depended on the Thompson family. Her dad would never let her divorce Kolton.

Her mom was soft. She listened to her husband in everything.

Besides, she was always telling Cecilia to be a faithful wife and a good mother.

Cecilia used to think Kolton liked her. He just didn't know how to convey his feelings.

In addition to her mom's influence, Cecilia endured his neglect for two years.

It turned out he'd been having an affair. Suddenly, Cecilia realized how stupid and pathetic she was to put up with him for two years.

No one in her family could understand how she felt. So, she must get divorced before they knew it.

"Don't make a scene yet. It can wait till you get divorced. Have you drafted the divorce agreement?"

Veronica was worried. "Don't yield on the financial settlement. Get the car and the house. If you can't, ask for millions of dollars at least."

"I...I'll think about it, then." This had never crossed Cecilia's mind before.

Veronica knew her mind must be a mess now. So, she didn't press her.

She took Cecilia home. After dinner, she offered to take her out and have fun all night, so Cecilia could forget about the unpleasant things.

But Cecilia wouldn't go. She grabbed her laptop and sat on the couch.

"I'm gonna send my resume. I must find a job as soon as possible."

Veronica thought about it and asked, "Do you need my help?"

If she helped, Cecilia could find a job without sending her resume.

"No, thanks. I can find a job on my own."

Cecilia didn't wanna pull strings. She believed she could find a job.

She wasn't being conceited.

It was true that she was inexperienced and had been away from the design field for two years.

But her graduation design won a prize, and most of the companies she was interested in invited her for an interview.

This was a good beginning. Cecilia was motivated and confident.

The next morning, accompanied by Veronica, she bought a business suit for the interviews.

She kept herself busy. But still, she thought of Kolton now and then.

Sadly, Iris would rush to her mind with him.

She knew little about Iris. But every time she thought of her, Cecilia felt inferior.

Her heart seemed to be pierced by numerous needles. Cecilia longed for a job, where she could prove her competence and put Kolton and Iris behind her. But the sting in her heart made her restless constantly.

She couldn't think, that if she hadn't married Kolton two years before, she would be a successful career woman now.

Several interviews were set for Friday.

Cecilia arrived at the first company at 9 a.m. She introduced herself first and waited for the interviewer to ask questions.

"Ms. Bradshaw, what did you do in the past two years after graduation?"

That was an expected question. Cecilia was ashamed. "I...got married."

The interviewer was disappointed. "There's a golden period for job hunting. We would welcome you if you had joined us upon graduation. But now... I'm sorry."

That was a no.

Cecilia was mentally prepared for rejection. But she didn't understand. "You didn't ask any questions related to design. You turned me down only because I'm inexperienced and married?"

She had mentally prepared herself to be rejected for being from a less competitive market, but she couldn't accept being turned down for such stupid reasons.

All the relevant information was clearly listed on her resume. If they minded, why did they even bother scheduling an interview?

"The company has its hiring rules. You're married and haven't given birth to any kids. What if you get pregnant right after joining us? Maternity leave, pregnancy leave... We're not here to pay idle employees."

The interviewer stood up and motioned for the assistant to see Cecilia out.

Cecilia chalked it up to bad luck. Maybe they just needed some people to fill the interview quota. She picked up her stuff and left.

But she didn't have any luck in the following companies, either. Each time the conversation barely started before she was turned down.

The fourth and fifth were even worse. The receptionist directly refused her at the front desk. "Sorry, all positions have been filled." She didn't even have a chance to participate in the interview.

She was no longer that confident and determined.

That evening, Cecilia returned to Veronica's place.

As soon as she opened the door, she could smell the aroma of food. Veronica, holding a tiny chocolate cake, danced her way over.

"To our gorgeous Cecilia. May you land the job and become a famous designer so that Kolton can eat his heart out!"

Cecilia froze as she took off her shoes. Her expression dimmed, and an awkward silence filled the room.

Veronica noticed something was wrong. She set the cake on the cabinet by the door and walked over to her. "What happened?"

Cecilia forced a smile and shook her head. "That cake was for nothing. I didn't get a job."

"What? That's impossible!" Veronica was shocked. "If you made it to the interview, that's at least a 50% chance. You graduated from a top university and you've even won awards. Sure, you don't have work experience, but you've got the talent. Those companies must be blind if they passed you over."

Cecilia changed into slippers and led Veronica to the dining table. "Maybe I was just unlucky. I still have two interviews next Monday. No point rushing the job hunt."

She said that, but she felt extremely upset when she thought of Iris. She was around her age, yet she had already become the VP at NimbusCore Group, Yet Cecilia? She couldn't even land an interview.

"Next Monday? Which companies?" Veronica's eyes sparkled as she got up to retrieve the little cake.

"Lumineer Studio and Azureon Group," Cecilia replied. Both were prestigious names in Sevarin.

The companies she visited today were decent, but nowhere near the level of those two.

After being rejected again and again today, she no longer held high hopes.

But she couldn't just lose faith.

In her gloom, she failed to notice Veronica's odd behavior.

Veronica brought the cake over and tried to lighten the mood, chatting and joking as if nothing had happened.

Cecilia played along, pretending to be fine.

That night, once they returned to their rooms, Veronica quickly pulled out her phone and made a call.

"Jerome, do you know the owners of Lumineer or Azureon?"

These two companies were too big for her to reach herself. She had no choice but to call her brother.

Jerome's gentle voice came from the other end, laced with sleepiness. "Veronica, it's 3 a.m. here."

She pouted. "You ran off abroad two years ago and have stayed there ever since! That's why we're in different time zones. Please, my dear brother, help me out. Cecilia has interviews at those two companies next Monday. Can you pull some strings?"

"Who?" Jerome suddenly sounded more awake. "Cecilia? She's job hunting? Would Kolton even allow that?"

"Don't bring up that jerk!" Veronica huffed. "She's divorcing him and trying to find work."

"Divorcing?"

"Don't ask so many questions! Just tell me. Can you do it or not?"

"...Got it." Jerome paused for a moment, his tone serious, and then hung up.

"Got what?" Veronica stared at the darkened screen, puzzled.

...It probably meant he said yes, right?

***

On Saturday morning, Cecilia was still asleep when her phone rang.

Without even looking at the screen, she fumbled for the phone under her pillow and answered, "Who is it?"

A warm voice came through the receiver. "Cecilia, I'm at your front door. I made some soup for you and Kolton. Come down and get it."

The familiar voice made Cecilia wake up immediately. Her eyes flew open in shock.

It was Braden Thompson, Kolton's father.

"Dad, you didn't have to bring it yourself. We can just have it tonight when we come over."

She jumped out of bed, confused.

Saturdays were always family dinner nights. She and Kolton would return to the Thompson family's old estate.

Braden smiled kindly. "Your mom and I have a cocktail party to attend tonight, and your grandmother's not around either. So no need to come back. The soup's already done. I made it myself and wanted to drop it off."

Cecilia dashed into the walk-in closet and told him a lie, "I actually headed out early. Maybe you could just leave the soup by the door?"

Unlike his son, Braden was gentle and refined. He was approachable and always cooked for the family gatherings himself.

In contrast, Kolton's mother was stern and cold.

"That works too. There's also a document. Could you drop it off at NimbusCore Group? Remind Kolton to take care of his health, no matter how busy he gets. And thank you for taking care of him all this time..."

Braden tended to every little detail, mothering everyone in the family. He constantly worried about Kolton's health.

He treated Cecilia with genuine kindness.

Truth be told, everyone in the Thompson family had been good to her.

That made the divorce more painful for Cecilia. She didn't know how to break the news to them.

When Braden mentioned the company, she didn't immediately respond.

The intimate scene of Kolton and Iris was still fresh in her mind.

She couldn't bear to witness something like that again.

But if she wanted to keep the Thompsons from noticing anything wrong between her and Kolton, she had no choice but to agree.

"Cecilia, are you listening?" Braden called gently, noticing her silence.

"I'm here, Braden. I see. I'll head back now and deliver the document."

After a brief pause, Braden added, "What were you doing out so early? Is something going on? Kolton didn't go with you?"

"My friend needed help with something. He's been really busy with work, so I didn't want to trouble him."

Cecilia hadn't expected Braden to be so perceptive. His questions caught her off guard.

But what really floored her was his next one. "Your car's still at home. How did you get out?"

She swallowed. "My friend picked me up."

There was a moment of silence on the other end.

After a while, Braden said, "That's fine. No need to be nervous. I'm just asking. I was just worried you might be going through something and didn't want to say."

"There's nothing," Cecilia replied, relieved, and ended the call.

After getting dressed and washing up, she rushed to the place she shared with Kolton, grabbed the soup container and documents at the door, and headed straight to NimbusCore Group.

She had taken a cab over. The driver was waiting at the front gate of the villa and drove her to the company.

Seeing her juggling the soup container and the folder, the cab driver asked, "Miss, are you the maid for this household?"

"Something like that," Cecilia replied with a touch of sarcasm.

Just earlier, she had seen her usual car in the yard, already covered in dust after just a few days.

The car would soon be nothing more than worthless scrap metal. Kolton would rather let it rust than hand it over to her.

Maybe she really was beneath even the maid.

Before she knew it, they had arrived at the NimbusCore Group.

The towering skyscraper stretched so high into the sky that Ceciliahad to lift her head upuntil her neck nearly hurtto admire it.

She had never been to NimbusCore Group before.

She knew the Bradshaw family could never compare to the Thompson family.

But it wasn't until she stood before this massive corporate towerthat she truly understoodhow huge the gap was.

There was simply no need for any comparison.

Not to mention the Bradshaw family's current decline... Even in its prime, it could never rival the Thompson family.

All the female employeeswere dressed in sharp business attire with perfectly made-up faces.

In such a setting, it was no wonder Koltonlooked down on Cecilia, who was just a housewife.

Even though sheonly did that for his own sake...

Cecilia pressed her lips together lightly, a wave of shame weighing heavily on her chest.

She stepped aside and called Trenton.

"Mrs. Thompson."

"Trenton, I'm downstairs. Would you mind..." Cecilia hadn't planned on going in. She thought she could just leave the documents and soup with Trenton to pass on to Kolton.

Before she could finish, Trenton cut her off. "I'm in a meeting. I'll arrange for someone to bring you up right away."

"I wasn't trying to..." she began, but the call had already ended.

She stood there, a bit stunned.

Less than two minutes later, one of Trenton's assistants came out to greet herand politelyinvitedher upstairs.

"You can just hand theseover to Kolton," she said, passing both the document folder and the thermos of soup.

"Miss, we're not authorized to handle documents meant for Mr. Thompson. Please deliver them yourself."

Trenton's assistant gave her an apologetic smile and led her into the building.

Left with no other choice, Cecilia followed.

***

Inside the CEO's Office...

Kolton Thompson had just finished a meeting. He lookedirritated, frowning. His well-defined hand tugged hard at his tie.

"Mr. Thompson, Mrs. Thompsonis here," said Trenton, walking in and placing a file on his desk.

Kolton paused, his tightly knit brows relaxing slightly. A trace of mockery flashed in his eyes.

It seemed that it didn't take long before she gave in.

He made no move to reject her presence. With his fingers propping up his chin, he seemed lost in thought.

"Should I postpone the meeting in ten minutes?" Trenton asked.

Kolton thought fora momentand said, "By half an hour."

He couldn't just forgive her easily. Otherwise, she would make a fuss again.

He'd need to frustrateher a bit. Ten minutes wouldn't be nearly enough.

"Understood." Trenton immediately pulled out his phone to make that happen.

Cecilia had taken the regular elevator up with Trenton's assistant. The frequent stops on different floors made the journey slow, and by the time they reached the top level, some time had already passed.

"Is Kolton in his office?" she asked.

"Mr. Thompson's been swamped lately. Meetingscameone after another. I heard from Trenton that he's been stayingat the office all the time. Those international conferences were usually held at late night.He's been busy and exhausted..."

The assistant veered off-topic, never actually answering her question.

Still, Cecilia got caught up in his chatter, her brows furrowing deeper as she listened.

Koltonnever ate well. That was why he developed his stomach issues.

"We're here," the assistant finally said. "Miss, you can go in on your own. I have to go now."

By the time Cecilia snapped back to her senses, the assistant had already walked off.

Looking at the two black solid wood doors before her,she felt a solemn air.

In her mind, Ceciliaalways pictured Koltonin a tailored suit, exuding power as he stepped through these very doors.

She would drop things off and leave, no matter what harsh words Kolton threw her way. She'd pretend not to hear a thing.

With that thought, she pushed the door open and entered.

The interior furnishing wasjust like Kolton himself, aloof, yet elegant.

A full wall of floor-to-ceiling windows let the morning sunlight flood the entire office.

The air was filled with Kolton's faint scent, lingering around Cecilia's nose. It triggereda rush of intimate memories.

Back when they were close, his broad, warm hands would wrap around her slender waist. All she could see was histanned and beefy chest.

Only in those moments of intimacy could she feel his presence so tangibly. Shecouldbreathe in his scent.

The office was completely empty.Kolton wasn't there.

For a split second, her heart felt hollow, and a wave of indescribable emptiness washed over her.

Was Kolton just busy, or did he know she was coming and deliberately avoided her?

She hadn't intended to see him anyway, but now that she couldn't, she felt disappointed.

She stood in the center of the office for a while, took a deep breath to steady herself,andthen walked toward his desk.

She set the thermos and documents down, her gaze unintentionally drawn to a blazerdraped over the edge of the desk.

The jacket was slightly wrinkled and carried a faint smell of smoke. Kolton had always been a clean freak. No matter how busy he got, he used to have Trentongo home to fetch him a fresh change of clothes.

She used to iron every piece he took off, keeping them ready just in case.

Though Cecilia was still debating whether to take it home for cleaning, shehad already picked it up.

By the time she came to her senses, she had already had the blazer in her handsas if she had already decided to take it.

Frustrated at herreaction, she was just about to put itbackwhen suddenly, the office door swung open.

She turned toward the sound.

Iriswalked in, wearing a black shirt with the top two buttons undone. She was too delicate and busty to miss.

Beneath a skirt that didn't reach her knees, her longandstraight legs were encased in sheer black stockings. She looked sexyandalluring.

Coupled with the aura of a successful professional, it was hard for any man to stay indifferent.

"Who let you in here?" Irissaid, not recognizing Cecilia.She then snatchedthe jacket from Cecilia.

Then, noticing the thermos and documents on the desk, she asked, "Are you themaid?"

Cecilia was tall. Even with Iris wearing five or six centimeters of heels, they were barely the same height.

With her hand suddenly empty, Cecilia's gaze fell on the jacket and her expression darkened.

And hearing what Iris said, she could no longer hold back. "No."

Iris looked like she couldn't care less. "I don't care who you are. From now on, don't come straight into Kolton's office, and don't touch his things."

With that, she turned and walked into the lounge.

The lounge door stood wide open. Right across from the entrance was a messy double bed. Kolton's white shirt, black trousers, and a pair of navy blue boxerswere scattered at the foot of the bed.

Iris casually picked up each item and took them into the bathroom before heading back to straighten the bedding.

From under the covers, a black stocking and a leopard-print bra suddenly came into Cecilia's view.

Her breath caught. Her face turned pale.

Busy? Kolton?

He still had time for a quick roll in the sheets with Iris in the lounge!

"What are you still doing here?" Iris came outfrom the bathroom, having tossed the stockings and bra inside.

Seeing Cecilia hadn't left yet, she lookedimpatient.

Cecilia pointed at the documents. "That needs to be handed to Kolton personally."

"I can take it." Iris's tone was edged with hostility now.

Iris no longer looked like that gentle woman by Kolton's side at the entrance of the French restaurant. She was more than aggressive.

This was Kolton's office. And Iris carried herself like the lady of the house, humiliatingCecilia, the actual Mrs. Thompson.

She walked straight toward Iris.