Chapter 1 The Fake Daughter Loses Everything "Mrs. Gibson, do you have anything to say about your husband showing up at Marilee Jenkins' birthday party today and announcing that he's going to divorce you?"

"People are saying Marilee is Mr. Gibson's first love and the real daughter ofyour parents, while you're the fake. You've been enjoying her parents' love all this time and married to the man meant for her. Do you feel bad about that?"

"Your parents just said you're not really their daughter and cut off your money. You've been out of work for two years, living as a housewife, so how exactly do you plan to support yourself now? Mrs. Gibson, any comments?"

The birthday party was crowded, and Alexia Gibson foundherself completely trapped.

Reporters quickly closed in on her, pushing cameras and microphones into her face as camera flashes burstfrom every direction, giving her no space to breathe.

Alexia just stood there, frozen. Her mind was still spinning from everything she'd just heard.

So this Marilee Jenkins was the real daughter of her so-called parents and her husband's true love.

And her? She was Roger Gibson's wife on paper, but clearly,just a joke to everyone else.

Years ago, the Jenkins couple had pulled her out of some run-down neighborhood overseas, saying she was their long-lost daughter.

But had they really not bothered doing a simple DNA test before welcoming her in?

Why did they only discover the mistake now?

Alexia's body tensed up. Her eyes drifted over to the man standing next to her. However, Roger's attention was not on her. He was looking at Marilee, as if they were the only ones in the room.

Her voice came out strained as she asked, "Why?You didn't even tell me."

Roger's face was as cold as stone. "Now you know. That's all that matters. It's over, Alexia. You were never good enough for me. Our marriage? Just a transaction. The only woman I've ever loved is Marilee. And you know why I never touched you after the wedding? Because you disgust me. You're like a spoiled dish-completely unappetizing."

His eyes swept over her from head to toe, full of scorn. Her simple clothes, those outdated glasses-everything about her clashed with the glossy, high-class world he lived in.

Before his harsh words even fully sank in, Alexia lifted her glass and threw the champagne right into his face.

The drink hit him with a loud splash, soaking his face and pricey suit. He just stood there, stunned, as the liquid dripped from his hair and down his face.

"A spoiled dish? You told me you wanted an ordinary housewife. Dad and Mom told me they wanted an obedient daughter, who never outdid anyone!"

Without hesitation, she threw the glass to the floor. The sharp crashinstantly silenced the whole room.

Roger's face turned red with embarrassment. His jaw tightened. "Have you lost your mind?"

From the stage, the Jenkins couple yelled at her. "Alexia, this is Marilee's birthday, not a place for your drama!"

People in the crowd rolled their eyes and muttered that she was nuts.

None of them had a clue whatshe had given up for the two families all these years.

Shoving through the crowd, Alexia made a beeline for the exit. Reporters swarmed after her like a flood.

She shoved past them all, blind to the pouring rain, deaf to the murmurs and judgment surrounding her. Right now, all she wanted was to get away-far from the noise, the eyes, and the humiliation.

But just as she broke through the crowd and made it outside, a bunch of Marilee's wild fans shoved her hard, and she slipped, landing on the wet road.

Marilee was an A-list star in showbiz. Her birthday party was being livestreamed,and tons of fans had gathered outside. The second they saw Alexia step out, thecrowd lost it, shouting like wild animals who had just found something to attack.

"Alexia, you've got some nerve attending Marilee's birthday party. You've got no shame!"

"You're not even the real daughter. Just go back to whatever dump you came from, orare you too hooked on the Jenkins' money?"

"Roger's going to divorce you, and you still think it's okay to show your face around Marilee? Who do you think you are?"

"Go away already!"

Alexia lay there on the wet street, frozen for a second, while their nasty words echoed all around her.

She let out a dry, bitter laugh. Everything wassuch a joke. A broken marriage, a cold family, and now they'd left her completely humiliated.

What was the point of pretending for so long?She had kept her head down, put up with everything, and this was what she got in the end?

A wave of helplessness washed over her. She closed her eyes, not even caring anymore as the freezing rain drenched her.

Through the noise and chaos, a flattering voice broke through. "Mr. Mason." The polite greeting was followed by firm, steady footsteps coming closer in the rain.

Moments later, a black umbrella appeared above her, silently cutting through the rain and offering her shelter from the storm.

Chapter 2 Meeting Him Again At Her Absolute Worst Alexia slowly looked up and met a sharp, intense gaze.

The streetlights flickered in the rain. Waylon Mason stood there, tall and intimidating, with astrong presence that made people uncomfortable.

Behind him was a row of fancy cars parked along the street, catching everyone's eye.

His assistants were standing on both sides of him, and one was holding an umbrella over his head.

But the umbrella Waylonwas holding was tilted just to cover Alexia.

Waylon took a slow step forward and leaned in. Before she could react, his fingers reached up and removed the heavy, black-rimmed glasses from her face. Her bright, beautiful eyes were now fully visible.

He looked down at her with a smirk. "It's been years, Alexia. Look at you-what a mess. Did you finally stop being that love-crazy girl, or are you still dreaming useless dreams?"

Every word cut deeper. Alexia's eyes started to tear up, and the little bit of strength she had left broke down under his harsh voice.

She opened her mouth to retort, but before she could speak, Waylon suddenly picked her up in his arms in front of everyone, protecting her from the rain and everything around them.

He walked toward the black car waiting nearby, carrying her as the bodyguards quickly stepped aside to make way.

All the noise and the rude comments around them faded away.

Everyone just stood there, stunned, watching them leave with shock written all over their faces.

...

Inside the car, Alexia held onto her muddy, soaked dress with trembling hands.

She looked down, her voice rough. "Waylon, why'd you have to show up now?"

Why now... when everything in her life was falling apart?

Waylon tilted his head at her question, then reached out and took her chin in his hand, gently but firmly lifting her face. His voice was calm, yet carried a cold edge. "Why else? I came to check on the woman I liked the least."

His eyes darkened, a smirk playing onhis lips. "So, Alexia, do you remember what I said to you seven years ago?"

Of course she did.

Waylon was the golden child of the Mason family. Her biggest rival back in the day.

The last time they met was at the airport, seven years ago. What was meant to be a goodbye turned into their worst fight.

Waylon always hated how she begged for the Jenkins family's approval and how she held onto Roger like she had no pride. And she couldn't stand his ego and how he judged everyone she cared about.

Back then, he'd warned her clearly-chasing approval from people who'd never truly accept her would only endin disappointment, leaving her with nothing in the end.

But she was too hopeful to see it. She had told herself, "It's okay if they don't like me now. If I work hard and put them first, they'll accept me eventually."

They wanted her to marry Roger, so she agreed. Her brothers didn't want her getting too powerful, so she acted clueless and average. But behind the scenes, she was quietly taking out their threats and protecting both the Jenkins and the Gibson families.

As Waylon's fingers held her jaw tightly, her warm tears fell on his hand, running down his knuckles. His expression wavered. The coldness faded just for a second. Then, he let go.

Alexia's voice shook, still raspy from the rain. "Waylon, you were right. They tossed me aside after exploiting me. For more than twenty years, I gave them everything I had. I was so stupid."

It was a long time before Waylon finally spoke again. "You were notstupid. They just weren't worth it."

But Alexia didn'trespond.

He turned to look at her and saw her fast asleep.

Later that night, Alexia suddenly came down with a high fever.

Santino Blake, Waylon's personal doctor, got pulled out of bed by a single call and had to grab his stuff and rush over late at night.

With his years of experience, Santino quickly ran a full checkup. He stood by the bed, looking at Alexia's pale, tired face, and let out a soft sigh.

Chapter 3 Our Luna Is Back Santino glanced over his shoulder and caught sight of Waylon on the balcony, cigarette burning slowly between his fingers.

Smoke curled up in lazy spirals, casting a ghostly veil over Waylon's sharp features, softening them with each exhale.

Waylon rarely smoked. Santino couldonly recall one other time Waylonhad smoked like this-two years ago.

Santino stepped outside and joined him. "She's stable now. She just picked up a chill from being stuck in the rain and took the shock pretty hard. I've given her an injection and some medication-she'll be all right."

A brief pause allowed Santino to scan the night sky. "I checked the headlines. The Jenkins family didn't just cut her off; they humiliated her for everyone to see-right in the middle of Marilee's birthday party."

Anger edged into Santino's voice. "Hadn't they done a DNA test before taking her back from abroad? This whole thing smells like a setup."

A sudden vibration broke his focus-Alexia's phone wasbuzzing on the nightstand.

Waylon strode inside, intent on ending the call, but the name flashing on the screen stopped him cold. A flicker of something dark flashed across his eyes as he picked up and put on the speaker.

Shouting erupted instantly, the caller's anger unmistakable.

"Alexia, you've ignored every call and message. What exactly are you trying to pull? Faking your own disappearance won't help. Tomorrow, you're signing the divorce agreement, and that's the end of it. I've shown enough patience. Stop standing in the way of Marilee and me. You've lived off the Jenkins family long enough. If you have any dignity left, walk away for good-it's the least you can do for Marilee. Don't worry about your share-you'll get what's coming. You looked after my grandmother and my mother these past years, fine. But don't overstep. Learn when to quit. Why aren't you answering me? Where are you?"

The stillness that lingered on the line finally made Roger uneasy. His confidence wavered and his words lost their edge.

Santino internally begged for someone to step in and stop what was happening, feeling panicsurge as things slipped further from control.

From the moment Roger started speaking, Santino caught the way Waylon's face darkened. His eyes went cold and every hint of warmth vanished, leaving the atmosphere icy and suffocating. Santino could barely stand, knees threatening to give way.

Waylon's expression turned sharp, his smile edged with cruelty. "So that's the way you speak to her, huh?"

Every muscle in Roger's body tensed, instincts screaming a warning. His voice grew cautious. "Who are you? Where is Alexia?"

Waylon let his gaze settle on the bed, where Alexia rested, her breathing faint but even. His response came as a gentle murmur, almost lost in the tension. "She's asleep."

He let a short silence hang before adding, "Andshe's right here with me."

The only thing that answered him was the explosive sound of rage through the phone. Roger's voice thundered down the line. "What did you just say? Who are you?"

Amusement glimmered in Waylon's eyes as a low chuckle slipped out. "Relax. You'll figure it out... assuming you live long enough." Without another word, he ended the call.

By morning, the rain had vanished, leaving sunlight streaming throughthe windows as Alexia stirred awake.

She reached for her phone, greeted by a storm of missed callsand furious messages from Roger.

Without reacting, she scrolled through the flood of texts, then let the device drop onto the sheets. Right now, a hot shower mattered more.

Steam fogged the bathroom mirror as she faced herreflection. Something had changed-her eyes, once dull, now held a spark she hadn't seen in ages.

For the first time in ages, she tried out a smile, and this one actually reached her eyes, genuine and alive.

It felt like a fever had burned away all her confusion, stripping her heart of old pain andfoolish loyalty to those who never deserved it.

No more playing the fool. No more pretending everything wasfine. This sad story was over.

Wrapped in a towel after the shower, she scanned her contacts and paused on a name untouched for years.

Her call barely rang once before chaos exploded on the other end. "Luna! It's about damn time! Tell me-are the rumors true? You're finally getting a divorce?"

Laughter and shouting burst from thebackground, her friends making no attempt to hide their eavesdropping.

Alexia replied calmly, "Yes, I'm going to sign the divorce agreement today."

Celebration roared through the phone. Whistles, cheers, the clink of glasses-her friends were clearly turning it into a full-blown party.

"Took you long enough to snap out of that trance! No more housewife blues. Our Luna is back!"

"Divorce is the best thing to happen to you! Roger never deserved you. Say the word and I'll handle him myself!"

"And don't get me started on that overrated Jenkins family. If not for you, they'd have collapsed during last year's crash. Luna, we're ready when you are-the Garden of Eden stands with you."

Their laughter and support brought a genuine grin to Alexia's lips. "In that case, I need a ride."

Without missing a beat, a man's voice broke in, buzzing with excitement. "A ride? For your grand return? Name it. I'll send the reigning racing champion to pick you up!"

Chapter 4 Do You Believe Me The call had barely ended when the soft click of the door caught Alexia's attention, her head snapping up.

There in the doorway stood Waylon, his height casting a shadow, his expression giving nothing away as their eyes met.

Neither of them had anticipated this kind of encounter.

Fresh from the shower, Alexia's hair clung damplyto her cheeks, a robe slipping low on her shoulders, skin flushed and eyes still hazy with warmth.

That oversized bathrobe, threatening to slip further, revealed soft lines of skin; the faint scent of shampoo lingered in the air, sweet and impossible to ignore.

Waylon's gaze swept over her, lingering just long enough for her cheeks to flush, before he looked away calmly. "Get ready. Breakfast is on the table."

Moments later, Alexia emerged dressed, met by the aroma of a beautifully arranged breakfast. Hunger won out over pride; she took her seat without pretense, finishing most of the meal before pausing for breath.

Little was said as Waylon let her eat in peace, only breaking the silence after she'd nearly cleared her plate. "You need a lawyer?"

She set down her coffee cup, eyes meeting his squarely. "So you've heard."

Amusement tugged at his mouth, though his eyes stayed cold. "Is there anyone left who doesn't?"

Alexia tasted the bitterness of the coffee and grimaced for just a moment, though she quickly composed herself. "I can deal with it."

As the words left her mouth, she realized he might think she was too stubborn to admit she needed help. After all, in most people's eyes, women being dumped were pathetic.

"Do you believe me when I say that?" she asked.

A smirk played on Waylon's face, eyes narrowing with a knowing glint. "Why wouldn't I? Alexia, he's the one who should've fallen apart."

That unwavering gaze held her still, though she managed a small, genuine smile in return."You've always known how to make a good point."

Once breakfast was done, Alexia got ready to leave.

Reaching the doorway, she stopped andglanced back. "Thank you," she saidquietly, her gratitude unmistakable.

There was no chance she'd forget his kindness.

...

Ten minutes had ticked past their appointment, and Roger's patience was quickly wearing thin as he and Marilee waited for Alexia in a private club.

"Why isn't she here yet? Is she refusing to divorce you?" Marilee pressed herself closer to him, sugar in her tone as she pouted. "You haven't forgotten our shopping plans, right? You promised you'd buy me a gown after this."

Roger hummed in response. The weekend's banquet held by the Chamber of Commerce would be the perfect stage to introduce Marilee-the timing of her comeback couldn't have been more ideal. Every influential name in town would be present, all eyes fixed on Waylon's much-anticipated return.

Just thinking about Waylon sent a flicker of unease across Roger's face.

The Chamber of Commerce's open support for Waylon right before the election of its new president wasn't exactly good news for the Gibson family.

A sudden uproar near the doorway snapped Roger's focus.

His head turned, and in that instant, it felt as though theatmosphere in the room shifted.

Everyone's attention zeroed in on a single figure glidinginside with effortless grace.

Alexia walked in, her crimson dress hugging every curve, heels whispering over the polished floor. Each stride radiated poise and quiet confidence. The scarlet hue, that unmistakable glow-she looked like the sunrise brought to life.

With each step Alexia took, Marilee's smile grew tighter, until it disappeared altogetherwhen Alexia claimed the seat across from them.

Roger couldn't hide his shock either; his eyes remained glued to Alexia's artfully made-up features.

"You..." Words caught in his throat, visible in the small, nervous bob of his Adam's apple.

Nobody present could believe this woman was thesame person from last night-the awkward glasses, the baggy checkered shirt, the sopping hair.

Yesterday's pitiful girl had beenreplaced by someone utterly different, confident, unrecognizable.

Nothing about their surprise caught Alexia off guard. Her beauty wasn't news to her; she'd just chosen not to make a show of it. Childhood lessons had always emphasized modesty, staying out of the spotlight, never inviting too much notice.

Marriage only tightened the leash. Years spent tending to Roger's grandmother and fielding disapproval from a mother-in-law who'd been fed tales of her so-called wild youth.

Not even her hair or the color of her clothes escaped scrutiny. Every detail had been censored into drab submission.

Vibrant dresses never made it toher closet-only baggy, forgettable options filled the shelves.

That chapter, though, was behind her.

With unhurried confidence, Alexia called over a server, ordered a tequila, and began paging through the divorce agreement-unfazed by the attention.

Marilee recovered her composure first, flashing a sweet smile. "Alexia, I hope you're alright after yesterday. The reporters caught us all off guard. Someone told me you slipped in the rain. It must have been miserable out there."

Chapter 5 Watching Her Unravel Patience faded on Marilee's face as she waited for a reaction, but Alexia wouldn't even meet her eyes. Instead, she directed her attention toRoger. "Is the Gibson fortune going up in flames? This is all I'm worth?"

A shadow crossed Roger's face. "That's what the prenup says, so that's all you're entitled to."

Even before they got married, he'd closed every door to the family's fortune,making sure she'd never find a loophole.

Realizing Alexia was blatantly ignoring her, Marileebutted in, "You're getting more than enough, Alexia. Was it love or money you wanted from Roger, anyway?"

Alexia still refused to acknowledge her, not so much as a glance. "With an amount this pitiful? Hang on to it-you'll need every last cent when the Gibson empire falls apart."

Those words wiped any patience from Roger's face. "Don't push it, Alexia."

Suddenly, Marilee's eyes shimmered with tears and her voice went brittle, as though her heart might break. "Please, Alexia, don't do this to Roger," she whimpered.

The crowd's attention snapped toward her as sobs and sniffles filled the space.

Marilee reached for the delicate pink diamond at her throat. "Maybe you never knew, but Roger and I have loved each other for years. He gave me this necklace on your wedding day-it's a symbol of his devotion. That cherry blossom garden in your backyard? Roger built it just for me, hoping I'd smile. You stole my life. Everything you have should have been mine. Don't you think it's time you let go and left quietly, without asking for more?"

An uncomfortable hush settledover the room.

It was rare to see a mistress acting so brazenly, demanding thewife walk away with empty hands.

Finally, Alexia turned to meet Marilee's eyes, her voice colder than ice. "I stole your life? Was it me who went to the Jenkins family, begging them to accept me? Was I the one who refused a DNA test andstrutted around calling myself their true daughter? Did I chase after Roger, desperate for a marriage?"

Every pointed question shattered the silence, each one sharp enough to cut.

All color drained from Marilee's face, her body rigid beneath Alexia's icy stare. Not missing a beat, Alexia delivered the final blow. "Go blame your own foolish parents."

That snapped the last of Marilee's restraint. "If it weren't for them,you'd still be digging through garbage. You've been living a luxurious life for twenty years. Without them, you'd be nothing but a pauper."

A sharp laugh spilled from Alexia. Her gaze drifted to the faded needle marks on her wrist. "If this is what luxury looks like, I must havemissed out. Pain, though? There was always enough of that to go around."

Disbelief filled Marilee's eyes, her words trembling with contempt. "Lies. You grew upsurrounded by filth-you're nothing but garbage. If my parents hadn't stepped in, you'd be gone by now. Some gang would have had its way with you and left you in the gutter-"

The rest never left her mouth. A sharp slap rang out, echoing in the room.

Stunned, Marilee pressed trembling fingers to the swelling red mark, speechless.

A cold smile curved Alexia's lips. "There's nothing I despise more than people who neverlearned basic decency. The Jenkins family or not, I'd still be standing here as myself. But you? Without that divorce agreement, you're nothing more than a shameless mistress."

Not waiting for a reaction, Alexia hurled the signed divorce agreement straight at Marilee, landing the hitwith brutal precision. "Think of it as my parting gift."

Marilee flinched as the edges nicked her forehead, letting out a startled cry. The shock lefther shaking, the color draining from her lips.

Alexia watched the panic unraveling Marilee's composure, noticingthe nervous twitch on her face. Pretending to care, she cocked her head and offered, "Do you need me to call an ambulance for you?"

That question broke whatever restraint Marilee had left. "Why would you ever do that?" she snapped.

Alexia gave her a look laced with fake concern. "It just seems like you're not well at all."

Marilee's voice cracked as she screamed, "I am not sick!"

Even Roger turned, uncertain and uneasy as her shrill denial filled the room.

Unbothered, Alexia let her reply drip with venom, hitting every nerve. "Funny. People who are actually unwell always insist they're fine. Might be time to book yourself a session with a psychiatrist. And before I forget... cute necklace. But honestly? Junk stones aren't worth much these days."

Marilee's face turned ashen, her fury and humiliation overwhelming her. Without warning, she collapsed straight into Roger's arms.

Anger carved hard lines into Roger's face as he pulled Marilee close, glaring at Alexia. "I never realized you could be so cruel. Just because you wore my ring, you think you can say whatever you want?"

Before Alexia could offer a comeback, a familiar voice cut through the tension, heavy with mockery. "Really? That's your angle? Just because she wore your ring, you think you could speak to her like that?"

A collective gasp swept through the crowd, all attention snapping to the doorway. There, tall and dangerously handsome,a man entered, charm radiating effortlessly with every step.

Chapter 6 The Butt Of A Cosmic Joke A casual brown trench coat draped over the man's shoulders, subtle yet impossible to overlook. Striking features seemed carved for attention-this was a face that commanded the room without trying. Tousled, ash-gray hair tumbled over his shoulders, lending a devil-may-care air that was both dangerous and magnetic.

The energy in the room spiked the instant he crossed the threshold. Whispers raced across the space, young women visibly struggling to contain their excitement.

"Wait, am I hallucinating? Isn't that Andre Cooper? The racing legend?"

"You mean the youngest person ever to win the Grand Slam? No way-he's even better-looking up close."

Andre Cooper, fully aware of the commotion, offered a gleaming, cocky smile, every bit as daring as his reputation. Just bybeing there, he managed to make Roger seem utterly forgettable.

"Look at that! It's actually him! And that's his Bugatti VGT out front-the only one of its kind. There's already a crowd forming just to catch a glimpse. Is he really taking a vacation in Afoross?"

With the crowd buzzing, Roger and Marilee sat frozen, shocktightening their expressions.

Andre Cooper? How on earth did Alexia wind up in his orbit? The gap betweentheir worlds couldn't have been wider.

Anyone who'd spent time in show business, like Marilee, knew exactly what Andre meant-global headlines, endorsement deals, and influence beyond her wildest reach. And that same man had just defended Alexia.

And it looked like he was not merely defending her.

Andre locked eyes with Alexia and crossed the floor, heading straight to her without hesitation. With practiced ease, he dropped his hands onto her shoulders.

With a mischievous tilt of his head, he teased, "Are you planning to keep me waiting all day?"

Rolling her eyes, Alexia asked, "Why did you have to come in? I told you to wait."

An exaggerated pout curled Andre's lips. "I've been waiting outside for ages. You thinkI'd let you deal with these vultures alone?" He tossed Roger one sharp look. "Seems Iwas right to worry. Guys who pick the wrong women are always hopeless in other ways too."

Roger's temper nearly boiled over, a vein throbbing at his temple as he glared at those hands on Alexia. "Well done, Alexia," he sneered. "Never figured you had it in you. This isn't the guy I chatted with on the phone yesterday. Are you handling more than one man these days?"

A dangerous edge glinted in Andre's eyes, but Alexia didn't so much as blink. "Not everyone has to scrape the bottom ofthe barrel for company," she retorted, cold and unflappable.

For a second, Roger was speechless. Then he let out a bitter, hollow laugh, his eyes sweeping over Alexia's unapologetically bold look.

"I always pegged you as some buttoned-up housewife, all prim skirts and those dreadful glasses, playing the shy librarian routine. Turns out you had your own partygoing on in the shadows. Tell me, how much of that little act was for my benefit?"

Alexia didn't waste energy defending herself. "I don't owe you a single explanation. You parade your affair for everyone to see, but I'm not allowed a private life? Don't kid yourself, Roger. We both know what this marriage really is. Spare me the outrage."

Roger's hands balled into fists. Hecouldn't pretend-he'd always known their marriage was just for show.

That knowledge only fed his fury. Glaring at Andre, he let his words drip poison. "You heard her. She likes collecting men. You think you're something special? Don't flatter yourself. You're just the latest in a long line."

Feigning a look of surprise, Andre brought Alexia's hand to his lips, flashing an over-the-top adoring grin. "Alexia, am I finally worthy of your illustrious roster?"

She shot him a dry, sidelong look. "You're putting words in my mouth."

Andre's grin widened, and he nudged her playfully. "Just say the word. I'd gladly stand in line if it meant a chance with you."

Those words seemed to hang in theair for a beat, leaving every jaw in the room suspended in shock.

Was this for real? The famously aloof racer, usually all icy coolness and edge, now grinning like a fool in love? The scene was almost absurd.

All eyes flicked toward Roger, their pity unmistakable-he looked like the butt of a cosmic joke.

Marilee's teeth dug so hard into her lip that she nearly broke the skin, jealousy seething just beneath the surface.

Roger's face clouded over, his good looks twisted by rage and disbelief. "Alexia, youactually think you can get away with this!"

He shoved back from the table, ready to lunge, but Andre reacted in a flash, catching his armand twisting it behind him with practiced skill.

Pain twisted Roger's features as he glared up at Andre. "Let me go."

Andre's grin sharpened, taking on apredatory quality as he pressed harder, asking, "Sorry, what was that?"

Frustration boiling over, Roger shouted, "I said let go!" His voice was taut with pain, and his struggle sent glasses tumbling off the table with a crash.

The commotion caught the club manager's eye, but Andre's cool exterior never faltered-only a deadly chill entered his gaze. "You'll have to speak up," he mocked, voice lilting with dangerous ease. "Didn't quite catch that."

A sudden, sickening pop rang out, silencingthe room in an instant.

The color drained from Marilee's cheeks, terror freezing her in place. "Stop! Let him go!"

Turning to Alexia, she yelled, "You're really just going to sit there? Do something! Make him stop!"

Chapter 7 A Conspiracy Despite the chaos around her, Alexia didn't move an inch. She stayed perfectly composed, her fingers intertwined and her chin gently propped on them, watching Roger in silence, who was now soaked in cold sweat.

She couldn't believe she'd wasted her time on someone like him-shrinking herself, holding back, staying in a marriage that should've never happened.

The club manager walked up, eyeing the mess around him. He didn't dare to intervene, so he turned to Alexia and pleaded, "Ma'am, could you help us out here?"

The whole thing had turned into a circus. Marilee was still yelling and crying, Roger looked in pain, and the crowd treated it like a live show, enjoying every second.

Alexia gave a small, cold smile, clearly unimpressed. Honestly, she was already bored. "Andre, let him go."

Andre snorted sarcastically but did what she saidand let go of Roger's arm.

Alexia stood up slowly, her tone steady and firm. "Roger, I don't want your money. Just make sure you show up at the courthouse tomorrow to finalize the divorce. Don't make me wait. And if there's still a shred of decency in you, look after your grandmother. She's the only one in the Gibson family who ever gave a damn about you."

Roger's whole body stiffened. He snapped his head up,clearly shocked. Alexia looked completely unbothered, but somehow, it felt like she actually pitied him.

That hit him harder than hewanted to admit. What wasthat look supposed to mean?

Who did she think she was, giving him that look? Like she could read him inside out? Like she felt sorry for him?

Roger started to lose it again, but before he could step forward, Marilee clung to his arm in panic. "Roger, you need to go to the hospital! Stop paying attention to her!"

"Let go of me!" Roger snapped, pushing her hand off. "Alexia, don't you dare walk away!"

His angry voice followed her, but Alexia didn't even flinch. She glanced back just once, seeing Marilee clinging tightly to Roger's arm like a lifeline. That possessive hold-it was clear Marilee was terrified he might still chase after her.

For a moment, Alexia found it hard to believe she had once fought so hard for this man. How could she have spent all those years trying to hold onto something that was never worth it in the first place?

The thought nearly made her laugh. She shook her head and walked off without a second thought.

Roger was no longer someone she'd ever turn back for.

Andre stayed close, matching her pace. A swarm of reporters and onlookers had gathered outside, clogging the entrance and flashing cameras in every direction.

But unlike the night before, Alexia was completely composed. Every step she took carried quiet strength-an aurathat made people think twice before getting in her way.

Sensing her change in demeanor, the reporters didn't dare swarm her this time. Instead, they turned theirfocus on Andre, throwing all their questions at him.

Andre took control of the scene with his usual charm. Smiling confidently, he fielded each question thrown his way without missing a beat. "Yeah, I'm just here for a little vacation. The views are stunning, the food's fantastic, and the people aren't bad either."

Then, with a nonchalant shrug, he continued, "Of course, I've known Alexiafor quite some time. I happened to be in town when I heard about the divorce and figured it was as good a reason as any to toast to a fresh start."

The crowd laughed, but the questions kept coming-sharper and more eager now.

"Roger Gibson? No, thanks. That guy's bad for the mood." Andre shook his index finger.

"What's my relationship with Alexia?" He paused, smirking slightly. "Take a guess."

The dramatic pause did the trick. Then, he delivered the line with a playful grin. "I'm pursuing her."

That one sentence set the whole crowd off. Gasps filled the air as reporters scrambled to catch every word, rushing to publish the scoop of theday-"World-Class Racer Confesses to Chasing After Former Jenkins Heiress!"

Soon after, they made it into the car. Andre started the engine, while Alexia leaned back in her seat, amused. "Thanks for the help, Andre. Your acting's getting pretty good."

Andre gave her a look. "Who said I was acting?"

"Come on. You've always had my back-that part's genuine." She let out a soft laugh.

Andre let out a dramatic sigh. "Knew you'd say that. But never mind, let's move on. I've got something to tell you."

"What is it?" Alexia asked, curious.

"It's about your past."

Her eyes narrowed a bit, but Andre didn't stop. "Right after the news dropped about Marilee being the real daughter, we started digging. Her mother has been wiring money every month to a woman, Ms. Carter. She is the wife of a rich businessman from Brookline and Marilee's adoptive mother. The payments started twenty-four years ago-the exact year you and Marilee were born. That means the Jenkins family already knew who their real daughter was-long before they brought you in. From everything we've seen, the Jenkins family taking you in wasn't a mistake, but intentional-a conspiracy."

Chapter 8 A Task Alexia let out a bitter laugh. "So that's how it is. No wonder the Jenkins couple always looked at me like I didn't belong. They brought me into their home, but their real daughter had to live in someone else's home. Of course they resented me. Why didn't you tell me this sooner?"

Andre simply shrugged, looking totally unbothered."Gaia's orders. She thought you needed to trip up a bit and said it'd help you grow some character."

Alexia narrowed her eyes at him. "Typical. I'm guessing you and Gaia already dug intoRoger and Marilee's affair long ago, right?"

Andre chuckled. "If you want the evidence, we've got plenty."

Alexia waved it off without hesitation. "No need. They're not worth the effort."

Her bluntness made Andre raise aneyebrow. "Now I'm really curious-what did you ever see in Roger?"

That question gave Alexia pause. She sifted through old memories, but all that surfaced was the image of that stubborn, broken boy fromlong ago-the only version of him that had ever truly stayed with her.

"I don't remember."

But deep down, she knew the truth that Roger was never the point. Growing up as an orphan before the Jenkins family found her, all she ever wanted was a real family. Everything she did-every sacrifice, every choice-was about winning love, about making people proud of her.

That mindset had followed her into adulthood, especially in relationships. Love, to her, meant lifting the other person up, pouring everything into them, and hoping they'd return even a fraction of it.

And marriage? Back then, she thought it wasthe key to finally being loved-something she had to earn, not something she deserved.

But standing in the present, looking back, she couldn't help but laugh at how wrong she had been.

Andre didn't look surprised. Thatfamiliar smirk tugged at his lips, amused and knowing. "I figured."

She tilted her head. "Figured what?"

"That it was never really about Roger. Most people think they understand love, but they don't. You didn't either." He shot her a playful grin. "Roger just happened to be there. If I'd met you back then, broken, desperate, and just as lost as him, maybe you'd be with me now, huh?"

Alexia gave him a sharp look, ready to shut him down, butbefore she could speak, Andre suddenly turned the wheeland sent the car drifting smoothly through a tight corner.

Startled, she grabbed the seatbelt and glared at him as the cars around them skidded to a halt in panic. "Pull a stunt like that again in the city and they'll revoke your license."

Andre just laughed, unfazed. "So what? Let them. I've still got my pro racing license-they can't touch that."

Just then, her phone buzzed in her hand.

She looked down. It was a call from Eleanor Gibson, Roger's grandmother.

A flicker of hesitationcrossed her face before she finally picked up.

"Hi, Eleanor... No, I wasn't avoiding you... I'll stop by tonight."

Andre didn't say a word and quietly listened until the call disconnected, rightas the traffic light switched to green.

He gave her a sideways glance. "So, where to now?"

Alexia let out a slow breath, clearly reluctant. "Golden Lake Estate. Thanks."

The place belonged to theGibson family, where Roger's grandparents lived.

Andre gave a mock salute, tapping two fingers to his temple. "Anything for you."

Alexia gave him a dry stare butdidn't respond.

A short while later, they pulled up outside the estate. As Alexia reached for the door, Andre hesitated, like something had been on his mind for a while. "Actually, there's another reason I came to Afoross. I've got a task I need your help with."

Alexia's hand pausedon the door handle. "What kind of task?"

Andre's expression turned serious. "A batch of biotech chips was smuggled out of the Garden of Eden recently. The most important one is embedded in a crown-the Adam's Heart. It's already in Afoross and is set to be auctioned at the upcoming charity gala held by the Chamber of Commerce. I'm sure you can guess the top bidders at that event. One of them will be the buyer. And we can't let the chip fall into the wrong hands. We need you to get that crown-ideally, through Waylon Mason."

At the mention of that name, Alexia frowned and asked, "Why him?"

Andre's usual smirk returned. "You've really been out of the loop, huh? The Chamber of Commerce isabout to elect a new president. And let's just say backroom politics are in full swing. That charity auction is being framed as a public welcome party for Waylon. So, you see where this is going?"

Even people who didn't follow politics could tell something big was going to happen.

Andre dropped his voice a notch. "Only Waylon has the clout to shut that auction down without causing a storm."

If he stepped in, it would settle everything smoothly-no arguments, no messy fallout.

Alexia narrowed her eyes. "That still doesn't explain why you want me involved. You allknow I'm not exactly on good terms with him."

"Oh, come on. That was years ago. Who knows? Maybe things have changed. Besides, rumor has it Waylon's planning to show up at the Equestrian and Shooting Tournament soon. Why don't you seize the chance to mend fences?" Andre threw her a playful wink.

Alexia pushed the door open and slammedit shut behind her.

Chapter 9 Not Looking Back The Gibson family's butler blinked, hardly disguising his astonishment, when Alexia climbed out of the cherry-red Bugatti. Questions lingered behind his eyes, but he simply gestured for her to follow and guided her into the house with practiced grace.

"Mrs. Gibson, Eleanor's hardly talked about anything but you lately. You made it in time for supper. Why not stay and keep her company?"

Without a flicker of warmth, Alexia answered, "Just call me Alexia. I'm no longer Roger's wife."

For a split second, he faltered, caught off guard by her words.

The city had been buzzing with talk of the split. Eleanor wanted to mediate, but from the way Alexia carried herself, the butler could tell there wasn't much hope.

That villa, so often silent and chilly, seemed unchanged. Alexia stepped inside and spotted Eleanor on the sofa, a welcoming smile lighting up her face. "Alexia, come join me."

Trying her best to appear cheerful, Alexia made her way over. Eleanor's hand found hers, gentle and warm, her tone laced with concern. "You picked a rough time to arrive, sweetheart. Allen just stormed off, determined to haul Roger back here. We've heard all about what's happened lately. I promise, we won't let him carry on like this."

A shadow flickered in Alexia's eyes. "I've already signed the divorce agreement. I'm not looking back anymore."

That response made Eleanor stiffen. "So, this is all because of Marilee, isn't it? I couldn't care less about that mess with her or the whole talk about some 'real daughter.' All I see is you. I won't accept anyone else as Roger's wife. He's still young and easily manipulated by some scheming woman. Let me handle him."

Alexia only shook her head. "No, I've let it go. I know when it's time to walk away. When I love someone, I stay by their side. And when that love fades, I move on. I'm finished waiting for a man to grow up. I'm through making excuses for his choices. Roger picked Marilee, and that's his problem now. I want nothing to do with it. The past is behind me. I'm ready for a new beginning."

There was something in hervoice-firm and unwavering-that made Eleanor pause.

Moments stretched out before the rims of Eleanor's eyes turned red. "I've watched you grow up, Alexia. You were like my own granddaughter. Roger had it rough as a kid. When he finally came back, he was wild, hard to handle. No one welcomed him, except for you."

For a moment, Alexia's resolve faded. Deep down, she understood her feelings for Roger were always tangled up in the gratitude she felt for Eleanor. The warmth she received from the old woman had filled the empty places the Jenkins family never cared about. That was why she had a soft spot for Roger, since he was Eleanor's grandson.

Eleanor knew exactly what was going on. She let out a wearybreath. "Roger has no idea what he lost. He believed he could stomp all over your feelings just because you loved him."

A sharp voice echoed down from above before Alexia could reply. "Let's stop pretending she's all virtuous. She's not even a real Jenkins. And she's played the role of Mrs. Gibson for two years. Roger'sthe one who got scammed. Now that he's found someone worth his time, who can blame him for moving on?"

There was Brandon Gibson-Roger's cousin, arrogant and unbothered, shuffling down the stairs in pajamas. He sprawled across from Alexia on the couch, throwing her a sly smirk. "Didn't take long to drop the boring housewife act, huh? You're not fooling anyone."

"That's enough, Brandon!" Eleanor shot back, voice sharp with anger. "Is this really how you talk to people? Take a good look at yourself. You can't even show the decency to put on proper clothes in front of guests. Shame on you!"

Sinking into the cushions, Brandon crossed his legs, an insufferable grin spreading across his face. "Please. She's not worthy of it."

Anger crept up Eleanor's cheeks, and her breath turned shallow. Alexia reached over, her hand a gentle anchoron Eleanor's back. "Don't let him get to you, Eleanor."

Alexia's attention shifted to Brandon, her eyes cold and assessing, as if shewere staring at something best ignored.

If she ever doubted it before, she was sure now-the Gibsons were all glitter andno gold. Roger barely stood out as halfway capable. The rest dragged the family name through the mud. Brandon? He was the perfect example of wasted potential.

Before divorcing Roger, she'd spent far too much time picking up after Brandon, mostly for Roger's sake and partly out of stubborn goodwill. In return, she earned nothing but resentment. He was the kind of leech who latched on tighter with every favor.

Catching the chill in her eyes, Brandon bristled. "What's withthat face? Don't act like I'm making this up. If it weren't for my cousin's payout, you'd be sleeping on the street tonight."

Eleanor's patienceran out. "Enough! Not another word."

Brandon liked to think of himself as the family's black sheep, too cool to care about lectures. Still, something in her quiet unnerved him far more than Eleanor's yelling ever could.

"Why aren't you saying anything, huh?" he asked.

An uneasy hush settled over the room.

Alexia kept still, her expression impossible to read, until she finally looked at Eleanor and whispered, "I'm sorry."

She rose without another word, collecting her purse.

Seeing her head for the door, Brandon's eyes glimmered with a wicked challenge. He swung his leg into the aisle, barring her way, his grin cocky.

That was his biggest mistake of the day. Alexia barely paused before she brought her gleaming heel down-squarely on hisfoot. The howl that followed left no doubt about her message.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Can't wait to know what's next? Tap to continue!

The story unfolds with you as the main character — play now!

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Rain slashes down like knives as I lie sprawled on the wet asphalt, my dress soaked through, my pride shattered. Around me, Marilee’s fans scream like feral animals, hurling insults louder than the thunder above. 'Go back to the gutter!' 'Fake heiress!' I can’t move. Can’t breathe. The humiliation burns deeper than the cold.

Then—silence. A black umbrella cuts through the storm, shielding me. I look up, heart pounding, and see him. Waylon Mason. Tall, ruthless, eyes sharp enough to cut glass. He doesn’t speak. Just crouches, removes my ugly glasses, and smirks. 'Look at you—what a mess.'

Before I can react, he lifts me into his arms, carrying me toward a line of sleek black cars. Reporters shout. Fans scream. But none of it matters. All I feel is the heat of his chest against mine—and the terrifying realization that the man I hated most might be the only one who ever saw me clearly.

Inside the car, he stares at me, voice low. 'So, Alexia, do you remember what I said seven years ago?' My throat tightens. Of course I do. 'Chasing approval from people who’ll never accept you will leave you with nothing.'

He was right. I gave them everything. And they threw me away.

Now, shivering in the backseat, I whisper, 'Waylon… why did you have to show up now?'

He doesn’t answer. Just watches as I drift into feverish sleep.

When I wake, I’ll have a choice: vanish into obscurity—or rise as the woman they tried to erase.