Sharon McKinzie's husband's first love was dying. He often said to Sharon, "Sharon, Kelly doesn't have much time left. Don't be petty and hold things against her." To make up for the regrets of his past, he traveled with Kelly—through mountains and rivers, beneath starlit skies and over distant seas. He even handed over the wedding they had planned—his and Sharon's—to Kelly Walt, without shame or hesitation. Even their five-year-old son clung to Kelly. "Mommy isn't even half as pretty as Kelly," he said. "Kelly's pretty. Why can't Kelly be my mommy?" Sharon decided to grant them their wish. She left behind the divorce papers and walked away without a word. Later, her ex-husband and son knelt before her—her ex-husband full of regret, her son's cheeks streaked with tears. "Honey… please come back to us.""Mommy… do you really not want us anymore?" Just then, a handsome man wrapped his arm around Sharon's waist. "There you are, honey," he said gently. "Our son's still at home, waiting for you to feed him."

Chapter 1 It was one in the morning.Sharon McKinzie found herself unable to sleep and started scrolling through her phone.She suddenly came across a new post on Kelly Walt's Instagram.[Thank you to Carter and little Theo for the lovely gifts. The cup was even handmade by Theo himself.]Sharon tapped on the photo.A necklace and a DIY mug appeared on her screen.Faintly, she could make out the words etched onto the cup: Happy Birthday, Mom.Her eyes drifted to the cold dishes still sitting on the dining table, untouched. The birthday cake, too, remained unlit.A faint, self-mocking smile tugged at the corners of her lips.She remembered seeing a news notification earlier that day.[Confirmed! The famously aloof figure from Amstern City, Carter Biggs, is secretly married—with a five-year-old son!]In the photo, a tall, handsome man and a slender, beautiful woman were walking hand in hand with a five-year-old boy through an amusement park.Kelly gently touched Theo's head, while Carter gazed at her with a softness Sharon had never seen before.The three of them looked picture-perfect—a beautiful couple and a child who looked just like Carter.They truly looked like a happy family.Today was Sharon's birthday. It was also her fifth wedding anniversary with Carter.And yet, the one being celebrated wasn't her—it was Kelly.Carter and Theo had spent the entire day with Kelly, gifting her what should have belonged to Sharon.Sharon wasn't surprised. Not anymore. She was used to this.Kelly was Carter's first love. She was terminally ill, with only a year left to live. Her dying wish was simply to see him one last time.Carter had told her he just wanted to do a few things for Kelly before the end, and hoped Sharon would understand.Sharon didn't want to understand. But she knew—she couldn't stop him.It was the first time Carter had spoken to her with such gravity.It felt like something had been carved out of her chest—leaving behind a hollow, aching space.She didn't know how long she sat there in the dark before the sound of the front door broke the silence.Carter walked in with Theo.He paused when he saw her sitting at the dining table, clearly surprised, as if he'd forgotten what day it was."You're still up?" he asked."I want to talk," Sharon replied calmly.Carter frowned slightly, then looked down at Theo. "Go on upstairs, Theo."Theo rubbed his eyes and yawned as he walked past Sharon.He suddenly paused."Happy birthday, Mommy."He tilted his head up to look at her—those eyes, so much like Carter's, stared into hers."Daddy and I didn't mean to forget your birthday. It's just… we still have so much time together. But Kelly only has six months left. You're not mad at us over something so small… right, Mommy?"Sharon didn't know what hurt more—being forgotten completely, or being remembered, only to be pushed aside anyway.Once Theo left, the room fell into silence again.Carter was the one to break it."What did you want to talk about?"He was dressed in a white shirt and black slacks, his features refined, his presence cool and composed like the pale, untouchable moon hanging in a winter night sky. Detached. Remote.Sharon took a deep breath. "Carter, let's get a divorce."A flicker passed through his eyes—like a breeze rippling across a still lake. But just as quickly, it vanished."I didn't forget your birthday," he said. "I already prepared your gift.""My gift?" Sharon gave a low laugh. "You mean the necklace that used to belong to my mother? The one you gave to Kelly?"That necklace was the only thing Sharon's mother had left her before she passed. Sharon had lost it the day she gave birth to Theo.Carter had promised to help her find it. He did find it—only to give it away.Carter's face remained composed, without a trace of embarrassment. Only his eyes darkened, just slightly."It's only on loan to Kelly. I'll return it to you later.""How much later?" Sharon asked quietly. "The day she dies?""Sharon! That's enough!" His voice cut through the air, sharp and cold. His usually distant expression gave way to rare anger.It was enough.She had had enough of being married to a man who gave his heart to someone else, enough of raising a child who never felt like hers, enough of being belittled by her in-laws."Kelly only has half a year left," Carter said. "Even Theo knows to be kind. Why can't you show the same generosity?"In that moment, Sharon felt something in her snap."What does her time left have to do with me?" she said. "She's not my family. Why should I be the one to tolerate her?"Carter looked genuinely taken aback. Sharon had always been gentle, mild. He hadn't expected words like that to come from her mouth.A cold glint flashed across his gaze. "I thought we had an understanding."Sharon let out a soft laugh. "She wants to relive her first love, so I have to watch the two of you fall in love all over again. She wants to experience a wedding, so you hand her the one I spent half a year planning. I get to watch you and her walk Theo down the aisle like a real family. She wants to see the world before she dies, so you take her traveling across it. If she wanted the moon, I bet you'd try to pluck it from the sky."She and Carter had been secretly married for five years. They'd never held a ceremony.It wasn't until Theo once asked her what she looked like in a wedding dress that Carter decided they should hold one. He promised she could plan it all—down to the last detail.She had.Then Kelly spoke a single sentence, and everything changed.Carter's expression turned to ice. "You've crossed a line."Crossed a line.Something tightened in her chest. She closed her eyes, the weight of disappointment pressing down on her.All these years, she had tried to be the perfect wife and mother. No matter how hard she tried, Carter remained distant. She had assumed it was simply his nature—detached and reserved.But then Kelly came back, and Sharon realized, even an aloof guy like Carter had fire in him.She reached for the divorce papers already prepared and placed on the table."I've signed them. You should too. If she can officially become Mrs. Biggs before she dies, I imagine it would make her very happy."Carter's lips pressed into a tight line. His handsome face seemed to frost over. It was a clear sign of his displeasure."And Theo?""He'll stay with you," she replied softly.He looked like he was about to speak, but then his phone rang.He picked it up."Carter! Kelly collapsed—she's in the emergency room!"

Chapter 2 Carter's brows drew tightly together. He said quickly, "I'll be right there," then turned and strode off without so much as a glance back at Sharon.Sharon stood still, expressionless, watching his retreating figure disappear into the darkness.She'd lost count of how many times, in the middle of the night, he had left like this—rushing to Kelly's side at the news of another so-called "critical condition."…The next morning, Sharon wheeled out her neatly packed suitcase, ready to leave.As she passed by Theo's room, her steps faltered.After a moment of hesitation, she decided to go in and see him one last time.He had been born prematurely. Ever since then, Theo had been frail and prone to illness. Because of that, she had always cared for him personally, never trusting anyone else to take her place.He looked a lot like Carter—right down to the cool, distant temperament.It was a weekend. Theo wasn't at school and was seated at his desk, working on his homework.When she entered, he greeted her out of habit, "Morning, Mommy," and went right back to writing without looking up.Sharon gazed at the profile of his face—so much like Carter's—and finally said, "Theo, I'm leaving. Take care of yourself."He responded with a flat "Oh," eyes still glued to his paper.Ever since Kelly had appeared in their lives, he had grown more and more distant from her.She still remembered that video Kelly once posted on social media.In it, Theo was munching on cotton candy as he mumbled through sticky lips, "I just like being with Kelly. I get to eat all kinds of yummy things."Then Kelly said, "Theo, is your mommy not good to you?""She just nags all the time. Tells me what I can and can't do, won't let me eat this or that.""Then between me and your mommy, who's better?""Of course, you! If my mommy treated me half as well as you do, I'd be so happy."Sharon understood. Compared to a strict mother, Kelly indulged him, spoiled him, and let him do whatever he pleased—of course she'd win his heart.To manage his condition, she made sure he went to bed on time every night. With his weak digestive system, she never let him touch outside junk food.It had taken years of meticulous care before he finally became stronger and no longer fell ill so easily.But in the process, he'd grown more and more distant from her.She was almost out the door when Theo's voice suddenly called after her."Mommy."Sharon turned around.He said, "You once said… the people Theo likes, Mommy will like too. I really like Kelly. So Mommy will like her too, right?"Sharon froze for a split second. Then, something quietly snapped inside her.She closed her eyes and smiled faintly—without a sound."You've always wanted to protect Kelly, haven't you? From now on, you can protect her together with your daddy."A flicker of confusion passed through Theo's eyes. He didn't understand what she meant.Sharon didn't explain. She simply turned and walked out of the villa.…Wendy Cohen's car was already waiting outside.After loading the suitcase into the trunk, Wendy looked at her. "Sharon… you've really decided to go through with the divorce?"Sharon gave a small nod. "Mm. I have.""And… what about Theo?""Even if I fought for custody, I couldn't win against Carter." Sharon gave a bitter smile. "And besides… Theo might not even want to come with me. To him, Kelly is the best."Wendy frowned in disapproval. "You almost died giving birth to him—labored through an entire day and night. You've been by his side ever since, doing everything for him. How could he think some homewrecker is better than his own mother?"Sharon said calmly, "That just proves they're father and son. Even their taste in women is the same."Wendy hesitated. "And Carter… does he know you're leaving?"She shook her head. "He's probably still with his precious Kelly."Before she got married, Sharon had owned a small apartment of her own. It had been a long time since she'd lived there.After cleaning up the space, Wendy suggested they go out."Sharon, we haven't gone shopping together since you had Theo. Want to hit the streets for a bit?"It was true. Ever since Theo's birth, Sharon's life had revolved solely around home and Theo. She'd lost herself, her time, her freedom—everything.Looking at the spark in Wendy's eyes, Sharon was suddenly reminded of who she used to be. She had once been just like her—full of light, full of life.Five years of marriage had turned her into someone prematurely aged, spiritless, and worn.Tears welled up in her eyes. "Okay."Just then, Wendy's phone rang.Whatever was said on the other end made her brow furrow.After a moment, she said into the phone, "Alright, we'll be there soon."Hanging up, she turned to Sharon. "Someone wants to offer a high price to buy the violin you authorized Demusica Harmony to sell—Shaluna. The manager says the buyer seems like a big deal. He didn't dare refuse. Since you're free today, we should go take a look."Shaluna… It had been five years since Sharon had touched her violin.She'd been so caught up in caring for Theo that everything related to music had been left in Wendy's hands.Hearing that name again now—it felt like a lifetime ago.…As soon as they stepped into the music shop, Sharon's steps halted.A tall, handsome man and a delicate, graceful woman stood together in front of a showcase labeled "Not For Sale."The woman's soft, gentle voice floated through the air. "The legendary Shaluna… it's even more beautiful than I imagined.""Carter, didn't you say you loved hearing me play the violin most? I want to hold one final concert before the end… I want to use this violin. What do you think?"The man's voice was low and clear. "Okay."The store manager followed nervously behind them, wiping sweat from his brow.When he saw Sharon and Wendy walk in, his eyes lit up like he'd just seen his saviors."Wendy! You're finally here. Mr. Biggs would like to purchase Shaluna. You can set any price you like—what do you think?"

Chapter 3 When Wendy saw Carter and Kelly, her brows drew together instinctively, and a flicker of deep disgust surfaced in her eyes.Her voice was cold. "Shaluna is not for sale."Kelly's brow twitched ever so slightly, her gaze quickly shifting to the woman standing beside Wendy—Sharon.Compared to Kelly's delicate charm, the kind you'd find in a dainty porcelain figure, Sharon had a quiet grace, a poised elegance. Her face was a perfect oval, her features soft yet defined. Her eyes, limpid and calm, seemed to hold a ripple of water. She looked just like a classical beauty walking straight out of an ancient painting.The moment Kelly laid eyes on her, something flickered in her gaze.She walked quickly toward Sharon and stopped in front of her, her expression tinged with a pleading softness."Sharon," she said gently, "is this violin your friend's? Could you ask your friend to lend it to me for a little while? Back then, Carter and I met because of the violin. I was practicing in the garden, and he was drawn to my music. That's how he found me… and how we got together. He always loved hearing me play."Sharon, I don't know how much time I have left. I don't even know if I can still hold a successful concert. But no matter what, I want to try—just one more time."Whether intentional or not, Kelly lowered her head slightly, revealing the familiar necklace on her neck.The overhead lights caught the pendant, scattering soft brilliance.The gleam stabbed into Sharon's eyes.Her voice was emotionless. "People die every day in this world. So what—just because someone with a terminal illness appears in front of me, I'm supposed to accommodate them?"Kelly had clearly never heard such words before. Her eyes reddened instantly, tears pooling, trembling on the edge.Carter's expression turned cold. "Sharon, it's just a violin. Must you be so aggressive? If you like it that much, I'll buy you another."Sharon looked at him. "Exactly. It's just a violin. If she wants one, buy her another. Why does it have to be mine?"Kelly pleaded softly beside them. "Sharon, what would it take for you to let me borrow it? Whatever conditions you have, just name them."Name her price? As if the bill wouldn't end up on Carter's desk in the end?Sharon let out a soundless laugh. "Kelly, you seem quite fond of things left behind by my mother. First the necklace, now the violin."Kelly blinked, confused. "I don't quite understand what you mean."Watching her feign innocence, Sharon sneered inwardly."This violin—Shaluna—was my mother's. And that necklace around your neck, that too was hers."Kelly's face turned pale. "I'm sorry. I really didn't know it belonged to your mother… Last night, Theo gave me a gift box with the necklace inside. I thought it was a gift from Carter, so I wore it. I didn't realize it was your mother's…"Sharon gave a light, cool laugh. "Well, now that you do—can you give it back?"Kelly touched the necklace at her collarbone, bit her lip, and looked up at Carter, eyes shimmering."Carter, since Sharon is asking… why not just let her have the necklace? We shouldn't upset her over something so trivial—it's not worth it."Let her have it?Not return it—let her have it.As if even if the necklace was originally her mother's, it wasn't hers to begin with. As if Kelly were magnanimously granting her a favor, not returning what never belonged to her in the first place.Carter already believed that Sharon's talk of divorce was just a ploy to threaten him. He hadn't liked that. Now, as he heard Kelly's words, his expression grew colder."No need," he said. "Since I gave it to you, it's yours.""But…" Kelly started.He cut her off. "Once something's given away, there's no reason to take it back."A trace of emotion stirred on Kelly's face—touched, grateful.Sharon instinctively curled her fingers into a fist.Then, as if shaking something off, she smiled faintly."Kelly, didn't you want to borrow the violin? Sure. If Mr. Biggs begs me for it, I'll consider it."Kelly's pupils widened. She looked stunned.Carter's expression darkened to something almost dangerous."Sharon," he said coldly, "that's enough."Her tone turned mocking. "And here I thought Mr. Biggs would do anything for you, Kelly. But now… seems that isn't quite true."She had once believed Carter would sacrifice anything for Kelly.Now she realized: the things he sacrificed were always the ones that didn't matter.Like her.Once she understood that, Sharon felt nothing anymore. Not disappointment. Not anger. Just… nothing.She turned to the shop manager, who'd been frozen at the side."If I'm not mistaken," she said, "the authorization for this violin expires today. Please remove it from display—I'm taking it home."The manager glanced cautiously at Carter.Sharon raised a brow. "What? As the owner, do I not even have the right to take my own violin?""N-no, of course not," the manager stammered. "I'll arrange the paperwork right away."Once the handover was complete, Sharon took the violin and walked out without looking back. She didn't spare Carter or Kelly so much as a glance.Carter's brows knit tightly as he watched her leave.Kelly lowered her head slightly, voice tinged with guilt. "It must be because you forgot her birthday yesterday. That's why she's angry… It's my fault, I've been a burden.""It has nothing to do with you," Carter replied, voice flat as he looked away. "Go ahead and prepare for the concert. I'll have someone send the Shaluna to you later."A bright smile spread across Kelly's face. "Okay."…That night, Carter returned home on time for once.But Sharon wasn't around to greet him with a warm meal like she always did.When dinner time came around, Theo came downstairs as usual. But the dining room was empty, the table bare.He looked puzzled. "Daddy, didn't Mommy cook dinner today?"Sharon had always been the perfect wife and mother. She never argued, never made a fuss. She played her role flawlessly.Carter had never loved her, but overall, he'd been quite satisfied.Especially with Theo's weak stomach and picky eating habits—Sharon never left meals to the staff. She always cooked everything herself, including dinner and late-night snacks.Thinking of what had happened during the day, Carter pressed his lips into a line, his face darkening slightly.If this was her way of retaliating, of throwing a tantrum, then she was overestimating herself."Don't worry about her," he said coolly. "Let's go eat out."Theo clapped happily. "Yay! Can Kelly come along too? I want cotton candy again!""Cotton candy?" Carter blinked. "Didn't your mom say you can't eat it because you're lactose intolerant?"

Chapter 4 Theo curled his lip. "My lactose intolerance is much better now. The doctor said it's fine if I eat a little now and then. But Mom always wants to control me—make me do what she says."That word—control—coming from a five-year-old's mouth, felt too heavy, too strange.Carter was just about to respond when his phone rang.He answered, and Kelly's voice came through from the other end."Carter, are you home now?""Yes.""Sharon hasn't come back yet, has she?"He paused for a moment. "Why?""I think I just saw her…" Kelly's voice hesitated. "She was having dinner with a young man. They seemed… close."She fell silent for a beat, then carefully asked, "Is it because of what happened earlier today? Did something upset her again? Carter, maybe you should explain things to her properly."A chill slipped into Carter's eyes.Sharon didn't come home to cook—because she was out on a date?His voice turned colder without him realizing it. "Where is she?"Kelly gave him an address."I got it," he said, and hung up.…In the restaurant, John Westin looked at Sharon steadily."Have you really made up your mind?"She nodded. "Shaluna was something my mother custom made just for me… and I gave it up for my family, for five whole years."Her voice trailed off as she let out a quiet sigh. A hint of wistfulness flickered across her face."And now?" John's voice was low. "If you return, you'll have to perform regularly. It'll be exhausting. You won't have much time left—for your husband, for your son.""Theo's health is fine now." A trace of irony flashed in her eyes. "Besides, he doesn't need me anymore.""And what about Carter?" John asked. "Will he agree?"At the mention of Carter, her gaze turned icy."I don't need his permission. This is my life."John looked at her for a long moment. "But he won't allow you to be around me.""I don't need his approval."Her voice was steady, but guilt surfaced on her face as she recalled how she'd once distanced herself from John—just because of something Carter had said."John," she murmured, "I'm sorry."But John shook his head. "Sharon, you don't need to apologize to me. It's me who should be sorry. I promised your mother I'd protect you. But I didn't have the strength to keep that promise. I let you suffer so much."John was her senior. The two had studied violin together under her mother since childhood. Now, John was one of the most celebrated violinists in the field.His striking features and melancholic temperament had propelled him beyond the classical music world, turning him into a heartthrob with fan followings rivaling top-tier celebrities.Fame, fortune—he had it all. But he still couldn't compare to someone like Carter, a man with real capital behind him."It's not your fault," Sharon said softly. "It's mine—"She didn't get to finish.A soft voice cut in from behind. "Sharon, what a surprise to see you here."Sharon turned to see Kelly, dressed in a pristine white dress.Running into someone she disliked—twice in one day—what rotten luck.Her voice turned cold. "What's it to you?"Kelly smiled sweetly. "Don't be upset, Sharon. I just found it strange—Carter rarely goes home, and yet you're not there cooking dinner?"Her tone was light, face gentle—an image of innocence and grace.By contrast, Sharon suddenly seemed sharp, callous, and unkind.But Sharon could hear the taunt beneath Kelly's gentle voice.She lifted her eyes—and saw the flicker of smugness in Kelly's gaze that hadn't quite been tucked away.She shot back, "And why is it rare for Carter to go home? Isn't it because his time is all taken up by you, Kelly? Are you really that clueless, or just pretending to be?"Shock spread across Kelly's face. She grabbed Sharon's hand, anxious to explain."Sharon, wait, I didn't mean it like that—"Before she could finish, Sharon yanked her hand away. "If you're not pretending, then you really don't know your place. And women with no self-awareness? They're very annoying.""Ah!" Suddenly, Kelly let out a shriek and stumbled backward.Before Sharon could even react, a tall figure caught her just in time."Kelly, are you okay?"Kelly's face had gone pale. When she looked up and saw who it was, her eyes immediately brimmed with tears, as if she had suffered some great injustice."Carter… I'm fine. Sharon didn't mean to. Please don't be mad at her, okay?"Carter's gaze flicked, finally locking on Sharon nearby.His brows drew together, voice low and cold."Sharon, apologize to Kelly."It wasn't the first time something like this had happened.In the past, Sharon would've hurried to explain. "It wasn't me,""Please hear me out,""I didn't do it,""Can't you believe me?"But Carter never took her side. He always made her apologize to Kelly.If she refused, he'd punish her with silence.He wouldn't answer her calls. Wouldn't reply to her messages.He would treat her like air—not a single word, not even a glance.Later, even Theo joined in the silent treatment.In the end, she had no choice but to lower her head and give in.The memory made her laugh bitterly."Why should I listen to you? Who do you think you are?"Carter froze for a second, wondering if he'd misheard her."What did you say?"Sharon met his gaze, calm and cold. "When I cared about you, everything you said mattered. But now? Tell me—what are you to me?"He finally understood what she meant.In all the time he'd known her, she had never spoken to him like this.She had always been gentle. Always considerate.She'd leave the lights on when he worked late.She'd make him midnight snacks when he stayed in his study for hours.She'd bring him tea to sober up when he came home drunk.Even after Kelly reappeared and Sharon changed, she'd never defied him so directly.So why now… why did his chest feel so tight?And then, a young voice cut through the tension."Mommy, you taught me that when someone does something wrong, they should apologize. So… now that you've done something wrong, shouldn't you say sorry to Kelly?"

Chapter 5 Sharon turned her head and saw Theo standing behind Carter. Though he was speaking to her, his gaze remained fixed on Kelly, worry written plainly across his face.Since forever, even the slightest sign of trouble from Kelly would send both Carter and Theo into a frenzy of concern.There was a time when the four of them went to a park together. No one could tell if it was a heatstroke or some sudden onset of illness, but Kelly suddenly looked as if she were about to collapse. Both Carter and Theo rushed toward her at once.In his panic, Carter even pushed Sharon to the ground. And yet, no one noticed.The cruelest part? Later, when Carter saw her injured and bandaged hand, he actually asked her how she'd gotten hurt.The memory shattered as Kelly's fragile voice broke into her thoughts. "Theo, I just lost my balance. It had nothing to do with your mother."Kelly shook her head at Theo, tears sliding down her cheeks in pitiful silence. "It's my body… it's just too weak…"Theo pouted, lips pushing forward. "But I saw it. I saw Mommy push you."He turned to Sharon then, his little face serious. "Mommy, you always told me that when someone makes a mistake, they should admit it and fix it. You're a grown-up… you wouldn't go back on your word, would you?"Sharon had put everything into caring for Theo's health. But when it came to his studies, she had hardly needed to lift a finger.At only five years old, Theo was already fluent in three languages and possessed an extraordinary gift for speech. More than once, he had left grown adults speechless.Carter's mother often said the boy's brilliance reminded her of Carter when he was young.And now, this little boy was using that sharp mind… against her, for Kelly's sake.As his mother, as an adult, she knew she had to set the right example. If she couldn't live by her own words, how could she ask a child to?Sharon looked at her husband and son, both standing beside Kelly. In that moment, she felt that they looked more like a family than she ever had with them.She had long since stopped hoping for anything from this father and son, but still, Theo's words pricked at her heart.Lowering her gaze to meet his eyes, Sharon said softly, "You're right. I did tell you that if we do something wrong, we should apologize. But—"She paused, her voice calm and deliberate."I didn't do anything wrong. Why should I apologize?"In the past, she would've yielded. She always did when it came to Theo.But today, she didn't.Theo spoke without thinking, "But I saw you push Kelly."Sharon didn't argue. Instead, she smiled faintly."Just because I pushed her… does that mean I was wrong?""But Mom, you said hitting people is wrong…"Her tone was light, even serene. "And I also told you that we shouldn't bully others. But that doesn't mean we should let others bully us. If someone keeps crossing the line, then—you shouldn't hold back."For all his cleverness, Theo was still only five. He hadn't expected her to say something like that. For a moment, he was stunned into silence.Just then, John's voice came from the side. "Theo, that's not how you speak to your mother."Both Carter and Theo turned toward the sound, surprised. As if they had only now noticed John standing nearby.Theo blinked. "Mr. Westin?"Carter's expression darkened. "Why are you here?"John — Sharon's childhood friend and senior schoolmate — was someone Carter had met many times. He'd heard about him from Sharon, too.She once told him that John had grown up without parents, raised by his grandparents.By middle school, he had lost even them, and was left completely alone in the world.It was around that time Sharon's mother discovered his musical talent and took him under her wing.But John had been a withdrawn, melancholy child who ignored everyone around him. It took Sharon three years to get through to him, for him to accept her as a friend and fellow student.And yet, for reasons Carter couldn't explain, he'd disliked this man from the very first moment they met."You can meet your ex-girlfriend, but it's strange that Sharon has a meal with someone who's like family to her?"John's tone was flat, but every word carried weight, each one slicing through the pretense like a blade.He stripped away Carter and Kelly's carefully constructed facade with chilling precision.Carter's eyes darkened, and his face hardened. "Sharon, come home with me."She answered without emotion, "No. I'm still eating with John."His voice grew cold, laced with threat. "Sharon, I'll say it one last time. Come home with me."She knew this tone well — it meant he was furious. If she didn't yield now, it wouldn't end with a simple fight.He would take action. He always did.She could never forget that night, when thunder rolled through the sky and rain soaked her from head to toe. She had knelt at his feet, soaked and shivering, begging him with tears streaming down her face to return Theo to her.He had looked down at her, cold and arrogant, and asked, "Do you admit your mistake?"The sound of her tears had echoed against the ground like rain, and in the end, she could only agree to apologize for Kelly's fall into the water.He always had a way of forcing her hand.The thought made Sharon smile.Then, calmly, she said, "No."Carter's eyes turned icy, his lips pressed into a thin line."Sharon, think carefully about the consequences."She met his gaze without fear."Mr. Biggs, whatever tricks you've got, go ahead and use them."Her only weakness had ever been Theo. But now, she didn't even want him anymore. Carter had nothing left to threaten her with.Turning to John, she said, "John, the vibes here aren't great. Let's find another place to eat."He paused for a beat, then nodded. "Alright."Without sparing the three behind her another glance, Sharon picked up her bag and prepared to leave.Behind her, Theo called out stubbornly, "Mommy, are you really not going to apologize to Kelly?"She paused, just for a second — then walked away without looking back.Carter stood where he was, watching her retreating figure. His gaze grew colder and darker by the second.Beside him, Theo stared after her too, a flicker of confusion crossing his delicate little face.Something about his Mommy felt different.Noticing both of their gazes locked on Sharon, Kelly's eyes gleamed with something sharp and cold. Then, all at once, she let out a weak gasp. "Ah…"In an instant, both Carter and Theo snapped their attention back to her.Kelly's face was pale. Her body swayed unsteadily, as if she might collapse at any moment.Carter's expression shifted, and without hesitation, he swept her up into his arms.

Chapter 6 Carter turned to Theo, who stood quietly to the side."Theo, wait here for me," he said.Theo gave a small nod, obedient and aware. He knew Carter needed to tend to Kelly first.As soon as Carter stepped away, a murmur of conversation rose from a nearby table."Dennis, look," a woman whispered. "That little boy over there looks even younger than you, but he stood up for his mom and drove away the mistress. Impressive, isn't he? When you see that awful woman again, you need to learn from him. Don't be scared, alright?"Theo heard them and turned his head toward the voices.A woman in her thirties was sitting at the next table, dining with a little boy who looked around seven or eight.The boy—Dennis—nodded earnestly.Noticing Theo looking their way, Dennis jumped off his chair and walked up to him."You're amazing. Can you teach me how to get rid of a mistress?"Theo blinked, a little thrown off. "Mistress?"Dennis thought Theo didn't know what that meant and proceeded to explain with grave seriousness."A mistress is someone who comes between a mom and dad. The third person. She ruins everything. She makes your mom sad, and she makes your parents get divorced. Women like that are bad!" Dennis's face twisted in anger. "Lately there's been this bad woman who keeps clinging to my dad. But…"His voice faltered, replaced by a look of helplessness."But I don't know how to make her leave. I don't know how to protect my mom."He looked up at Theo again, his eyes filled with admiration."You were so cool just now. Just a few words, and that woman ran away. Your mom and dad got back together, right? Can you teach me how you did it?"Theo was still struggling to process it all. "Got back together…?"But… wasn't it Mom who left first?Dennis tilted his head, confused. "Didn't that woman just get scared off by what you said? And didn't your dad carry your mom away right after?"Mom?So Dennis had mistaken Kelly for his mother?At that moment, Dennis's mom walked over too. She reached out and gently patted Theo's head."You're such a good boy," she said warmly. "You didn't hesitate at all to take your mother's side. Not like my Dennis—he once said the bad lady was nice just because she gave him candy."Dennis scratched his head sheepishly. "Mom wouldn't let me eat candy. I couldn't resist…""I don't let you eat it because I don't want your teeth to rot. When you're older, you can eat as much as you want."Dennis hugged his mother's arm and whined softly, "I know now, Mom. You're just looking out for me. Don't stay mad, okay?""That woman almost sold you off. Took that for you to realize your mom's not so bad after all."Dennis let out a goofy laugh. "Hehe… better late than never!"Though the woman kept chiding her son, her eyes betrayed nothing but affection and tenderness.…More than half an hour passed before Carter and Kelly returned."I'm really fine, Carter," Kelly said helplessly. "It's just low blood sugar… no need to go to the hospital."Carter's tone was firm, his face stern. "You're fainting more often lately. We should get you checked, just in case it's something more serious."Something flickered across Kelly's face—barely perceptible.Lately, in an effort to keep Sharon on edge, she had indeed asked Carter to come over more than she used to."I'll be alright," she said. "It's getting late, and Theo hasn't eaten yet. Let's let him eat first. I can go to the hospital tomorrow—it's the same."They spoke as they walked, making their way back to Theo.He sat alone at the table, staring blankly out the window, a faraway look in his eyes—lost in a way he had never been before.Carter didn't notice. He simply stepped in front of him."Kelly's not feeling well. I'm going to take her to the hospital. We'll eat dinner after."His voice was calm, but there was no room for argument in his words.For all his outward coolness, Carter was inherently domineering. Once he made a decision, it was rarely overturned.On any other day, Theo would've agreed without hesitation. But today, something felt different.Sharon's face floated into his mind.Until today, she had always prepared his meals on time.He had a weak stomach—he needed to eat regularly. Even when they were out with Kelly and it got late, Sharon would insist he eat something light to tide him over.She'd even customized those snacks just for him.Her cooking was excellent, though after a while, eating the same things did get old.Outside food always looked more exciting, more tempting. Gradually, he'd stopped enjoying the things she made.Kelly's soft voice pulled him from his thoughts. "Carter, Theo's body is weak. Let's let him eat a little first."Carter's voice was cool. "Your health is more important."Kelly's cheeks flushed slightly. She didn't argue, only looked down and smiled gently at Theo. "How about we get you a slice of strawberry cake to eat on the way?"Strawberry cake—Theo's favorite.On any other day, he'd have jumped for joy.But now, he only gave a quiet nod."Okay."Kelly noticed something odd about him today, but didn't dwell on it.After asking the server to pack up a slice of cake, she took his hand, and they walked out of the restaurant together.…On the way to the hospital, Kelly sat in the passenger seat, turning back every now and then to remind Theo to be careful while eating."If I didn't get carsick, I'd sit in the back with you," she said with a sigh. "Then I could take better care of you."Even when Sharon was around, Kelly had insisted on sitting in the front. Her reason was always the same: she got motion sickness, and sitting in front made it easier.Theo looked at the cake in his hands.Suddenly, he remembered what Dennis's mom had said—that she didn't let her son eat candy because it was for his own good.He looked up."Ms. Walt, are you a mistress?"

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It's 1 a.m., and Sharon sits alone in the dark, staring at her untouched birthday cake. On her phone, Kelly Walt posts a photo of a handmade mug from Theo with the words 'Happy Birthday, Mom.' Today was supposed to be her fifth wedding anniversary. Instead, Carter and Theo spent the day with Kelly—giving her the gifts meant for Sharon. When Carter finally walks in, cold and composed, she tells him calmly: 'Let's get a divorce.' He scoffs, says she's overreacting. But Sharon is done being patient. She hands him the signed papers. Just then, his phone rings—Kelly's collapsed. He leaves without a word. The next morning, Sharon packs her suitcase. Theo, still loyal to Kelly, asks, 'Mommy, will you like Kelly too, since I do?' She smiles faintly. 'You can protect her with your daddy now.' As she walks out, Wendy waits with the car. But before they leave, a call comes in—someone wants to buy Shaluna, her mother’s violin. When they arrive at the shop, Carter and Kelly are already there. Kelly pleads: 'I want to hold one final concert... with your violin.' Sharon looks at her, then at Carter. 'If Mr. Biggs begs me, I’ll consider it.' The air freezes. Carter’s jaw tightens. Kelly’s eyes fill with tears. But Sharon doesn’t flinch. She turns to the manager: 'Remove it from display. I’m taking it home.'

As she walks out, violin in hand, she doesn’t look back. Not at Carter. Not at Kelly. Not at the life she’s leaving behind.

Later, at a quiet restaurant, John Westin watches her. 'Have you really made up your mind?' She nods. 'This is my life.' Just then, Kelly appears, feigning surprise. 'Carter rarely goes home... and you're not cooking?' Sharon doesn’t rise to the bait. But when Carter arrives, furious, demanding she come home, she meets his gaze. 'No.'

Theo, standing beside his father, says quietly, 'Mommy, you taught me to apologize when I’m wrong. Shouldn’t you say sorry to Kelly?'

Sharon looks at her son—the boy she nearly died giving birth to, the child who now sees her as the villain. Her voice is calm. 'I didn’t do anything wrong. Why should I apologize?'

Carter’s eyes turn icy. 'Think about the consequences.'

She smiles. 'Mr. Biggs, whatever tricks you’ve got—go ahead and use them.'

She turns to John. 'Let’s go. The vibes here aren’t great.'

As she walks away, Theo calls after her. 'Mommy, are you really not coming back?'

She doesn’t answer. She doesn’t stop.

Behind her, Kelly gasps, swaying dramatically. Carter catches her instantly, sweeping her into his arms—just as he never did for Sharon.

But Sharon doesn’t look back.

She’s already gone.