Chapter 1 Betrayal "From Urgent News Flash, there was a rear-end collision on Highway 257. A drunk truckdriver collided with a taxi in front, causing it to flip over. The extent of injuries is not yet known, but witnesses say a pregnant woman about to give birth was inside."

The sounds of sirens, screams, and traffic were deafening.

The noise battered Kimberly Holden's ears, and the air reeked of blood.

Barely conscious, she managed to grab her phone and dialed a number.

Just as the call was about to drop,someone picked up.

A familiar female voice responded, "Kimberly, Declan is in the shower and can't come tothe phone. What's the matter? Is it urgent?"

At that moment, Kimberly's heart sank.

It was Valerie Walsh!Of course!

Always Valerie, the beloved adopted sister DeclanWalsh had grown up with, the one who made him neglect her, block her number, even on her due date.

With her eyes closed, Kimberly felt a warm stream beneath her, signaling the life inside her fading. Despite her agony, she begged, "Helpme... Highway 257... Save my child..." Her words were hard to speak.

The sudden accident had knocked down the barriers on both sides, completely blocking the highway. Cars couldn't go forward or backward, and rescue vehicles were trapped outside.

The process of deploying a helicopter was too complicated. However, Kimberly knew that the Walsh family owned a private chopper. If Declan could send it over right away, there was still a chance for hope.

"I'm sorry, Kimberly. Declan is busy with my birthday preparations today and can't address this," said the voice, sounding naive yet harsh.

Then theline went dead.

Kimberly fell to the ground, the smell of gasoline urging herto escape before an explosion.

But she felt a sudden acceptance of her fate.

In her last moments, she thought about her twenty-five years, half spent loving a man who didn't love her back.

From the spoiled heiress of the Holden family, she had become a disgraced figure, publicly embarrassed.

She had gambled everything of the Holden family's property, yet failed to gain even a shred of Declan's genuine love.

She was exhausted and had lost the will to love him again.

This life taught her about poor judgments, and she promised herself not to make the same errors in another life.

"Mrs. Walsh, are you really going to wear this pink couture dress to the charity auction tonight? Even though Mr. Walsh..." Maggie, the housekeeper, paused, then gently continued, "This short dress seems too casual. Maybe choose something different?"

After her suggestion, she watched anxiously for the woman's reaction in the mirror.

Having worked for the Walsh family for many years, Maggie understood Kimberly's deep love for Declan. To win his approval, Kimberly carefully matched her lifestyle to his preferences.

Kimberly looked at the familiar reflection, her heart racing.

Wasn't she supposed to be dead? Wasn't the charity auction three years ago? Could it be that... she had been reborn?

"Mrs. Walsh?"

Maggie's pressing voice snapped Kimberly back to reality.

"Mr. Walsh will be here to pick you up in an hour. You should get ready! How about this white dress? It's more elegant..."

Kimberly's eyes sparkled, and a subtle smile appeared on her lips.

This auction was organized by the most mysterious and ancient family in Javille, the Howard family. On the surface, it seemed like a high-society event, but in truth, it was a way for families to showcase themselves to the Howards.

The Howards placed a high value on family unity, which was why Declan needed to bring her.

Previously, she had been jealous of Valerie forcapturing all of Declan's attention. To win him over, she had mimicked Valerie in every way.

Her careful efforts to please him only made him resent her more.

At this charity auction, Declan had taken her emerald necklace without her permission to impress Valerie, allowing the latter to flaunt it at the event.

When Kimberly attempted to take back the necklace, Declan accused her of being jealous,turning her into a mockery among the elite.

Given another shot at life, she vowed to recover everything that was hers!

Reflecting on her past experiences, Kimberly stated calmly, "I plan to wear the made-to-order beige dress. It will complement my emerald necklace beautifully."

After years of imitating Valerie, she almost lost sight of her true identity as a dignified lady of the Holden family, brought up with rigid discipline.

It had been foolish of her to vie with an adopted member of a merely affluent family.

Maggie said worriedly, "But Mr. Walsh usually doesn't favor such formal outfits, and the emerald necklace, a gift from your grandmother, wasn't even worn at your wedding. Isn't it a bit too grand for an auction?"

"I'll fetch the necklace. You sort out the dress," Kimberly commanded as she rose, disregarding Maggie's worries. "And clear out all the dresses in the wardrobe. We're replacing them with new ones."

Maggie looked on in astonishment as Kimberly headed towards the inner room, paused briefly, but then carried out the orders.

Instead of waiting for Declan to pick herup, Kimberly took a Lamborghini from the garage and drove directly to the event.

The charity auction was hosted at a private estate by the water.

Under the setting sun, Kimberly looked stunning in her custom-made beige dress.

The tailored fit showcased her elegant figure, and her sleek, modern hairstyle paired with refined makeup enhanced her allure.

As she handed her car keys to the valet, her phone rang. The caller ID displayed "Declan" over and over.

Kimberly scoffed, and upon answering, an angry voice blasted from the other end. "Whoauthorized you to take the emerald necklace?"

Chapter 2 The Charity Auction Declan's tone was commanding as if Kimberlyhad committed a theft.

"Where are you? I promised Valerie she could wear that necklace at the auction. Bring it back right now!"

While handing her invitation to the event manager at the door, Kimberly retorted over the phone, "This necklace is from my wedding gifts from the Holden family. Since when does anyone else get to dictate its use? Or has the Walsh family fallen so low that they must lean on their wife's wedding gifts?"

Declanwas stunned.

He had never heard Kimberly, who usually bore everything quietly, respond so defiantly.

In a stern voice, he said, "Kimberly, I'm telling you one last time. Return the necklace immediately, or you'll regret it when I lose my temper!"

In the past, when he spoke in such a cold tone, it meant he hadcompletely run out of patience.

What typically followed was her being blocked and ignored, a cold shoulder that lasted at least a month. No matter how much Kimberly tried to humble herself, she could never get him to smile.

Thinking back to her previous life, where she had groveled like a dog just to gain a bit of Declan's favor, Kimberly felt nothing but disgust.

"So I'll say this one last time as well. Using your wife's wedding gift to impress another woman, Declan, are you a CEO or merely a gigolo?" she scoffed coldly. "Go ahead and be angry if you like. It doesn't bother me."

With that, she ended the call, leaving a seething Declan on the line.

He had always beenthe one to hang up first, never her.

Next to him, Valerie hesitantly said, "Declan, is Kimberly upset because you wanted to take me to theauction? Is that why she won't lend me the necklace?"

This remark only added fuel to Declan'salready raging anger.

He sneered, "She's just playing games to make me notice her. She's been with us for barely a year and already she's become so manipulative and jealous!"

Seeing Kimberly's firm refusal to surrender the necklace, Valerie was worried and annoyed, yet she put on a look of sorrow and grievance.

"Forget it, I won't attend the auction. If Kimberly is this upset over a mere necklace, imagine how she'd react if I went as your date!"

"If she wants to go crazy, let her be. It's a disgrace to the Holden family, not ours," Declan said angrily.

After venting, he tenderly tousled Valerie's hair, murmuring, "Don't worry, you'll wear that emerald necklace and be the star of the auction."

Valerie's eyes sparkled, and she embraced Declan."You're the best, Declan!"

As Kimberly walked into the auction venue, a professional manager came up to consult with her.

"Mrs. Walsh, may I inquireabout the item you're contributing to the auction?"

Kimberly paused briefly before responding, "I'd like to donate under my own name instead of the Walsh family's. Is that possible?"

The manager was initially surprised but quickly responded, "Absolutely! The auction respects the individual wishes of all donors."

Kimberly nodded, her fingers lightly touching theemerald necklace she wore.

"I'm donating this necklace."

The manager looked astonished. Being professional in the auction industry, he recognized the necklace's significant value.

"Mrs. Walsh, while we're grateful for your contribution, this auction primarily supports charity and fosters collaboration among elite families including the Howard family, not functioning as a professional auction house. This necklace, crafted from rare materials by top artisans and with historical importance, might be too valuable for such an occasion. Isn't it somewhat wasteful here?"

Kimberly smiled slightly. She knew the necklace's worth, a treasured gift from her grandmother, and never planned to auction it initially.

But she vividly recalled how Valerie had once auctioned it off without her permission to make a grand impression.

Back then, the necklace had caught Renee Howard's attention, theevent's hostess, who bought it at the highest price, facilitating a partnership that greatly elevated the Walsh family's status.

As the true owner of the necklace, Kimberly was labeleda madwoman by Declan when she attempted to reclaim it. He forcibly dragged her out and locked her in the car.

After that, she never attended any event again.

Now, instead of allowing others to benefit from her treasures, she decided to take control.

"Charity requires genuine sincerity, which I believe alignswith Mrs. Howard's intentions for hosting this event," she said clearly, earning an admiring glance from the manager.

"However, I have a small request," Kimberly continued witha bright smile. "I want to personally present this necklace on stage, as no one has a closer bond to it than I do."

The manager was taken aback by such an unusual request, but considering the informal nature of the charity auction and Kimberly's status as the donor, he agreed to accommodate her.

"Of course, I'll let you know when it's your turn to take the stage."

This exchange was overheard by two individuals in a private room on the second floor. One, a man in a champagne-colored suit with an open shirt showcasing his muscular chest, radiated a striking presence.

"Wow, Mrs. Walsh is truly generous, offering such astunning necklace and even presenting it herself.The winner will definitely view her in a new light!"

He then turned to another man seated on the sofa, partially obscured by shadows. "Do you think she realizes your grandmother has always wanted that necklace?"

Chris Howard, Renee's grandson, took a sip of his wine, swirling it thoughtfully before replying softly, "Isn't she married? Why is she here by herself?"

Chapter 3 The Adopted Sister When asked about it, Felix White instantly brightened and winked at Chris.

Felix said, "You might not have heard, being abroad and all, but it's been juicy gossip here in Javille! Declan has an adopted sister he cherishes like a rare gem. Kimberly was optimistic enough to bring investment into the marriage, rescuing the Walsh family's finances.

And what's the payback? A year later, and it's still Declan's sister by his side at every social event. The entire Walsh family adores her, while Kimberly, born a Holden, is treated like she's merely there to serve, without any respect."

Felix clicked his tongue. "Declan is really something. In terms of looks and personality, Kimberly, the former top wealthy lady, is much better. How can he overlook such a beauty at home and instead fawn over that adopted sister of unknown background?"

After a brief pause and no reply, Felix turned around to find that the man who had been sitting on the sofa had disappeared.

"Hey,wait up..."

Kimberly had just finished signing her name and was looking for a spot to grab some refreshments when a loud, angry voice caught her attention."Kimberly, who allowed you to come to this event without my permission?"

She turned to see Valerie, glamorous in a beautiful gown,clinging to Declan's arm. Her face was the picture of innocence, but her eyes gleamed with arrogant satisfaction.

"Declan, don't be angry at Kimberly. Maybe she's upset that I'm your date and came hereearly to stir up trouble. Perhaps I should leave," Valerie said, looking up at Declanwith a fake sense of hurt, her eyes filling with tears. "I don't want to upset Kimberly."

Declan looked at Kimberly with a cold expression, who had changed out of an unsuitable outfit into a dress that flawlessly showcased her poise and elegance.

Her elegant figure and confident demeanor seemed to bring back memories of when she was the top wealthylady in Javille, aloof and confidently pretentious.

Declan sneered, "Having a spoiled, arrogant woman by my side would ruin the Walsh family's reputation at such an event."

He affectionately patted Valerie's hand, his tone soft. "You've been by my side at every event since we were kids, and you'll always be the one."

Their synchronized performance, as always, made Kimberly look small in front of everyone.

"Why does Mrs. Walsh even bother coming?" whispered the onlookers. "She knows her husband prefers the adopted sister,yet she keeps trying to compete, only to embarrass herself."

However, Kimberly responded with a poised smile, "Yes, with Valerie as your date, I am much more relaxed."

Nobody anticipated Kimberly's change from her typical emotional self to a portrayal of a virtuous and considerate wife.

Valerie was momentarily taken aback, thinking Kimberly had become docile after Declan's reprimand. She felt pleased until Kimberly finished her sentence. "At least she's more decent than prostitutes."

A flash of anger crossed Valerie's eyes.

Tears welled up as she faced Kimberly. "Kimberly, I know you've targeted me because Declan shows me affection. I don't mind. Coming from a wealthy family, you might feel entitled to look down on us. But remember, the Walsh family isn't some ordinary family you can insult freely. If you have issues, direct them at me, not at others."

Kimberly could barely hide her scoff.

When she married Declan, the Walsh family was in decline, and the media portrayed it as "Declan marrying a much richer wife," which always bugged Declan.

Any mention of family background would quickly set off his sensitivity, making him believe that Kimberly was looking down on him when in truth, it was his own insecurity.

Valerie had perfected this tactic, always escalating their argumentsto make it look like Kimberly was showing off her family background, which would inevitably trigger Declan's intense anger towards her.

As expected, Declan turned to Kimberly sharply. "You owe her an apology! I used to think youwere just a spoiled woman, acting all high and mighty. But now you've turned so wild and rude. Is this how the Holden family raises their daughter? What's so special about your family?"

He gave Kimberly a glare, a warning spark in his eyes. "Apologize to Valerie now, and hand over the necklace you're wearing. Be genuine, and maybe I'll forgive you!"

His expression was severe, and his tone was authoritative.

In the past, Kimberly would have been scared ofthis attitude, agreeing to any unreasonable demand just to avoid his cold shoulder for months.

Now, faced with his harsh words, Kimberly had to decide how to respond...

"What? You expect me to kneel to your adopted sister?"

Chapter 4 Lose Face At The Auction Kimberly suddenly stumbled backin shock, covering her mouth as her voice rose in disbelief.

It was the busiest time for guests at the auction, and in an instant, the crowd was drawn to the scene created by the three of them.

Kimberly's eyes grew wide as tears quickly gathered, her voice thick with emotion. "Declan, it's clear you prefer your adopted sister. Throughout our marriage, whenever she needs you, be it day or night, you're there instantly. At every significant occasion, she's by your side. What about me? I'm your wife!"

Caught off guard by Kimberly's emotional outburst, Declanand Valerie momentarily froze.

Kimberly's tearful accusation became more heartfelt. "Now, you want me to give my wedding gift to your adopted sister. If I refuse, you make me kneel before her. Declan, I really want to ask you. Today, it's the wedding gift. What about in the future? If she wants you, am I supposed to give my husband to her too?"

This heartbreaking complaint immediately resonated with the crowd, who started pointing fingers at Declan and Valerie.

"What a jerk! I used to believe he was just closeto his adopted sister, but now it seems like there's something more happening behind the scenes."

"Absolutely! An adopted sister, yet he treats her so well. Something's off here. Mrs. Walsh married into the Walsh family and significantly boosted their standing, yet he takes her for granted."

"To make his wife kneel to his sister? That's disgusting! Howcan they show their faces here?"

As the gossip became harsher, Declan's expression grew darker.

He shouted at Kimberly, "I only asked you to apologize to Valerie, not to kneel. Don't twist my words!"

Valerie, overwhelmed by the backlash, quickly added, "Kimberly, it was you who insulted me first. Don't make things up out of jealousy for Declan's affection for me!"

Kimberly didn't show any signs of panic. Instead, she let out a bitter laugh and turned to the crowd with a touch of self-mockery. "Jealous? Did you hear that? My husband's adopted sister thinks I'm jealous of her. I always thought jealousy was something wives felt toward mistresses, but I never imagined it could apply to a sister!"

Her words shifted the crowd's perception of Valerie even more negatively.

Kimberly fixed her gaze on Declan, her voice raspy. "Apologize? Alright, tell everyone why I should. Let them judge if I really owe an apology!"

Declan clenchedhis jaw.

He knew his request to give the wedding gift to his sister was indefensible. Admitting it would label him and Valerie poorly.

Declan moved quickly to grab Kimberly's arm.

"Enough drama. Are you having another episode? I didn't want you at these events because I worry about your mental health."

Valerie chimed in, "Yes, Kimberly, every time you have one of these episodes, you invent stories about Declan mistreating you, even resorting to violence. You really should follow the doctor's advice and seek treatment."

In Kimberly's previous life, Declan had single-handedly labeledher as mentally unstable, which had led to her being restrained and removed in public when she tried to reclaim her necklace.

From then on, the rumor that Kimberly was a lunatic spread through high society, causing Kimberly to lose all her social opportunities.

As the crowd looked on with disapproval, Kimberly forcefully removed Declan's hand, her voice filled with distress.

"When I married into the Walsh family, I was thoroughly examined, including my mental health, which is documentedonline. Yet, after a year of marriage, your coldness and your closeness with another woman pushed me into depression. Declan, does emotionally tormenting your wife to the point of mental distress makes you feel accomplished?"

Declan was left momentarilywithout words.

Noticing the growing scornful looks from those around him, his expression darkened evenmore as he turned to his bodyguards nearby.

"Mrs. Walsh is having a mental health sickness. Remove her for treatment immediately!"

The escape behind Kimberly wasquickly blocked by several bodyguards who moved toward her.

"Mrs. Walsh, please cooperate, or you could get hurt!"

Kimberly stepped back, weighing her options, when a male voice cut through the tension.

"Mrs. Walsh!"

She turned to see Benjamin Thorpe, the respected butler of the Howard family, pushing through the crowd, accompanied by the manager she had spoken with earlier.

He approached Kimberly respectfully. "Mrs. Howard has taken a great interest in the necklace you contributed. She'swilling to offer ten times the auction value to acquire it."

Both Declan and Valerie reacted visibly, Valerie with a look of jealousy and resentment.

Kimberly caressed the necklace, then responded with a thoughtful smile, "Since I've put it up for auction, I'm open to letting it go. However, I'd prefer to discuss the price directly with Mrs. Howard, if that's acceptable?"

Benjamin smiledwarmly, nodding in agreement.

"Certainly, Mrs. Walsh, please accompany me."

As Benjamin began to lead Kimberly away, Declan stepped in their way.

Clearing his throat, he changed his tone from earlier and spoke with deep respect. "Mr. Thorpe, I'm Declan Walsh, Kimberly's husband. I usually take care of family matters. My wife rarely attends important events, and I'm concerned she might say something inappropriate. Maybe I should talk to Mrs. Howard instead."

Valerie added swiftly, "Mr. Thorpe, you've heard about my sister-in-law's mental troubles. Mrs.Howard is quite advanced in age and could be easily alarmed by her. It might be wiser if my brother and I handle this. We're all family here, so it shouldn't matter who speaks on our behalf."

Declan then gestured invitingly towards Benjamin, while Valerie positioned herself between the butler and Kimberly.

Watching their shameless behavior, Kimberly couldn't help but sneer at herself.She had never met such shameless people!

"Please, this necklace was donated under Mrs. Walsh's personal name," the butler said.

Chapter 5 Want To Cooperate With The Howard Family Benjamin looked at Declan with a polite expression. "If we're speaking of family matters, the relevant family here is the Holden family. Unfortunately, your last name isn't Holden."

Declan's face shifted instantly, and he gave Kimberly a sharp look.

He then addressed the butler sternly, "Mr. Thorpe, she does not have the authority to decide on these matters. I am the head of our family. If this necklace is to be donated, it should be under my direction, and I wish to donate it on behalf of the Walsh family!"

Benjamin, however, showed no signs of intimidation. Instead, he gave Declan a cold glance.

"The ownership and intentions of the donor are what we respect here. Since this is a Howard family event, we adhere to the Howard family's guidelines."

His tone was even, but his words carried a firm will that left Declan at a loss for words.

"And furthermore..." Benjamin continued, looking towards Kimberly, "Mrs. Howard, who prioritizes peace and order above all, has noticed that ever since you and your sister arrived at the banquet, there has been nothing but trouble. You even tried to have the security guards detain guests at will. If you don't calm down, you may not be welcome here anymore."

Declan was immediately panicked.Was the butler suggesting theymight be expelled from the event?

He had worked hard to secure an invitation to this prestigious gathering. Being ejected would not only be embarrassing but would ruin his reputation across Javille.

He quickly mustered a calming smile and said, "I apologize, Mr. Thorpe. I acted without thinking. Please, let's not trouble Mrs. Howard with this. I assure you, there will be no further issues..."

"Mrs. Walsh, pleasefollow me."

Benjamin seemed to dismiss Declan's hurried apology and gestured for Kimberly to accompany him deeper into the banquet area.

Kimberly looked back to see Declan standing still,stunned, while Valerie's expression was one of deep irritation. A smile played on Kimberly's lips.

In her previous life, during this event, Valerie had dramatically taken the stage during the climax of the auction to bid on the necklace herself.

It was a ridiculous act, but since Renee liked the necklace, Valerie not only escaped blame for her attention-seeking behavior but also helped create a partnership between the Howard and Walsh families.

Kimberly realized the necklace must have an extraordinary value for Renee.

But she hadn't anticipated that it would even lead Benjamin to support her, almost getting Declan kicked out.

The gilded doors swung open, revealing an interior with classic and elegant decor.

Upon entering, Kimberly's gaze was immediately drawn to an elderly woman resting on a sofa at the center of the room-clearly the renowned Renee Howard.

Beside her sat a man dressed in a sharp black suit, exuding a relaxed confidence that did little to concealhis remarkably handsome and distinguished appearance.

Thiswas...

Kimberly's eyes briefly sparkled. It was Chris, the Howard family's exceptionally talented heir, known for his influence in both legal and illegal matters abroad.

Why had he suddenly come backto the country?

"Mrs. Walsh."

Renee stood and personally guided Kimberly to sit next to her on the sofa, her gaze full of affection.

"I've been looking for this necklace for years, and I never thought it would end up with your grandmother. I'm so thankful you're willing to let it go." As she spoke, she began tostand and bow to Kimberly, which startled Kimberly into quickly getting up to stop Renee.

"Mrs. Howard, please, there's no need for that," Kimberly said gently. "My parents died when I was young, and it was my grandmotherwho raised me. This necklace was her wedding gift to me. Now that she has passed and the Holden family has diminished..." She held the necklace tightly, making a firm decision in her heart. "I hope this necklace can lead to a partnership with the Howard family!"

Chapter 6 My Name Is Chris Howard Renee thought for a moment, seemingly understanding Kimberly's intentions, and nodded. "I recall, your in-laws are the Walsh family, who have been doing quite well recently. Are they the ones proposing collaborations?"

As she spoke, shelooked to Chrisfor confirmation.

Without raising his eyes from his phone, Chris casually mentioned, "The new energy project launched recently has been their main focus for the last two years."

He paused before adding, "The Walsh family has the capability to collaborate with us, but Declan tends to overreach. He always wants more than he can manage."

Then he went back to scrolling through his phone, treating it like just a simple business analysis.

Yet, Kimberly felt a subtle warning in his tone directed at her.

Renee held Kimberly's hand, her voice rich with genuine concern. "If you're really looking to assist your husband's family, I'm willing to consider your request. However, I've heardrumors about your husband in Javille these past two years. He may not be the best partner..."

"Mrs. Howard, there's been a misunderstanding," Kimberly interrupted, inhaling deeply. "I'm not here for the Walsh family. I'm seeking a collaboration for my aunt with the Howard family."

The room went quiet for a moment.

Chris, previously engrossed in his phone, now gave Kimberly his attention.

"Your aunt..." Renee sounded surprised. "Mabel Holden, the current leader of the Holden family?"

Kimberly nodded, her expression intense.

After the early deaths of her parents and her grandfather's illness, the Holden family had been left vulnerable. It was Mabel who had stepped in to manage the chaos and uphold the family.

In her past life, Mabel targeted the new energy project to restore the Holden family's glory, hoping to restore the family by partnering with the Howard family. However,the Walsh family took advantage of Kimberly's necklace to seize the opportunity first.

The Walsh family thrived from the collaboration, and in their effort to grow their business empire, they ruthlessly competed against and destroyed the company Mabel had worked so hard to build, resulting in the Holden family's eventual bankruptcy. Mabel was forced to leave the country.

Before she left, she had visited Kimberly, handed her a significant sum of money, and warned her she had trusted the wrong person. She assured Kimberly that if ever she needed shelter after a divorce, she would always be welcome to join her abroad.

At that time, completely in love, Kimberly had dismissed Mabel's concerns, a decision that led to profound regrets.

"I just want to give my aunt a chance to compete for the collaboration. If your Howard family thinks she's not up to it, you can decline at any time," she told Renee with determination in her gaze. "But I trust my aunt will prove her value to you."

Renee was silent for a moment, observing Kimberly, then burst into laughter.

Kimberly felt uneasy at the sudden laughter, unsure of what to say next, when Renee explained, "Do you know why I'm so determined to buy this necklace?"

Seeing Kimberly's confused look, she smiled softly. "It wasa gift of love from my husband."

Her eyes lingered on the necklace, filled with reminiscence. "The Howard family faced hard times once. I pawned it for some relief. When our situation improved and I went to buy it back, it had already been sold."

Kimberly paused, momentarily speechless.

Renee appeared to remember a sad past as she gently touched the necklace around Kimberly's neck, her voice becoming softer. "This necklace once brought luck to my family and me. I hope it does the same for you." She then glanced towards her grandson. "I'm tired now. Please escort Mrs. Walsh out."

Kimberly was about to oppose when she noticed Chris already standing, moving gracefullyto her side and signaling for her to follow.

She hesitated, biting herlip, then silently agreed and followed Chris out.

As the doors closed behind them, Kimberly's fingers brushed the necklace, her thoughts swirling with unease.

Chris, now beside her, glanced her way and spoke with ease. "Don't worry, my grandmother has accepted your proposal."

Kimberly looked up at Chris, taken aback.

Her eyes, wide and captivating, added an indescribable charm to her gaze.

Chris caught a brief look and quickly looked away.

"The Holden family's new energy project started late. While it doesn't have the strong connections of the Walsh family, your aunt is dependable, far more than your villain husband," Chris said, his tone was casual but also explanatory.

It was the first time Kimberly heard Declan referred to as a villain, which she found both ridiculous and somewhat fitting, making her laugh.

This laugh drew a subtle smile from Chris, the corners ofhis eyes wrinkling slightly.

"Oh, the necklace!"

Approaching the garden on the other side of the venue, Kimberly realized she had forgotten to hand the necklace over to Renee.

She raised her hand to take it off,but the necklace got tangled in her hair, and she couldn't remove it.

The more she tugged, the more frustrated she became. Just as she was about to forcefully free herself, a calm male voice intervened, "Don't move, let me help."

Before Kimberly could object, Chriswas already behind her, his handsdeftly working to free the necklace.

His cold fingers brushed against her warm skin, and she instinctively wanted to pull away but felt it was too insignificant to make a fuss over.

Thus, she stood still, letting Chris carefully untangle the necklace.

"Just bear with it, these last few strands are stuck. I'll need to break them."

Kimberly closed her eyes, bracing herself for the slight pain when a stern male voice suddenly cut through the air. "What are you two doing?"

By then, the necklace had beenfreed, and Chris carefully removed it from around her neck.

Declan, with Valerie by his side, marched over from a distance, anger clear on his face.

The scene he had just stumbled upon was like a dagger to his heart.

He had been publicly scolded by the butler in Javille's high society and nearly thrown out of the banquet, turning him into the laughingstock of the entire city!

And the instigator, hiswife, was being affectionate with a stranger!

He rushed forward, shouting at Kimberly, "No wonder you've been acting so differently today and treating me harshly. You wanted to get rid of me to attract another man!"

Kimberly scowled. "Then why have you always kept me from these gatherings? Was it so other women could flirt with you?"

Declan was momentarily at a loss for words. "You..."

Next to him, Valerie covered her face, looking shocked by the confrontation.

"Kimberly, regardless of what you do privately, this is apublic event. You need to mind your behavior. If peoplesee this, it could damage the Walsh family's reputation!"

Her words subtly suggested that Kimberly was unfaithful and wild.

This further infuriated Declan, who seized Kimberly's wrist, intending to drag her away.

"Go home and staythere. Stop embarrassing yourself!"

However, his movement was abruptly stopped bya firm grip on his arm.

"Without Mrs. Walsh's agreement, you have no right to decide for her."

Declan turned to see a man with sharp brows and captivating eyes, radiating an air of arrogance even in his disdain.

His anger grew even stronger. "I'm her husband. She must do whatever I ask!"He assumed the young, handsome man in front of him was just a lover brought in by some rich woman, and his contempt grew. "And who are you to interfere?"

Chris responded with a slight smirk, enhancing his already charismatic presence. "Unfortunately, in this setting, I do have a say. My name is Chris Howard."

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The sirens scream, but all I hear is the drip of blood hitting metal.

Gasoline stings my nose.

My legs are numb.

Warmth spreads beneath me—too much warmth.

The baby… no.

Not yet.

Please, not like this.

Fingers trembling, I clutch my phone and dial Declan.

One ring.

Two.

Then—

"Kimberly? Declan's in the shower. Can this wait?"

Valerie.

Of course it's her.

Always her.

"Help me," I whisper, tears mixing with sweat.

"Highway 257. I'm hurt. The baby—"

"He's busy with my birthday dinner. Call someone else."

The line dies.

I collapse back, staring at the shattered windshield.

Sky blurred by rain and blood.

This is how it ends?

Forgotten.

Unmourned.

A footnote in their perfect story.

But then—light.

White.

Blinding.

And a voice: "Mrs. Walsh? You're late. Mr. Walsh will be here in an hour."

I blink.

Maggie stands there, holding a pink dress.

Pink.

The one I wore three years ago.

The night everything started falling apart.

I look in the mirror.

Young.

Alive.

Unbroken.

Did I… come back?

If I did—if this is real—then this time, I won't play the fool.

This time, I take everything back.

But first—I need that necklace.