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1,915,415	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1915486}'	No	2024-07-08 20:07	active	1089	460750399993299	Read more	Upon awakening, she realizes she has reincarnated as a useless girl madly in love with her husband. However, her husband despises her and wishes for her demise. With determination, she firmly divorces him, vowing to make those who hurt her pay the price!<br /> =====<br /> "Rachel, you fking bch. GO TO HELL!"<br /> On the king-size bed, the man's face was a mask of fury, his black eyes burning with hate. The veins stood out on his forehead and his arms as he wrung the woman's slender neck.<br /> The woman was still half-asleep, but she could feel something was wrong. She couldn't breathe!<br /> She groggily opened her eyes, seeing the man in front of her was strangling her neck tightly, choking the life out of her. <br /> <br /> On top of the pain she already felt, she could feel a terrible headache coming on. Memories that didn't belong to her started flooding her senses.<br /> <br /> She had been reborn, from Shelia Davis to Rachel Bennet.<br /> <br /> As Rachel Bennet's lungs started screaming for air, her survival instinct kicked in. She raised her hands to her throat, trying to fend off her attacker.<br /> <br /> But the man wouldn't budge. <br /> <br /> Bam!<br /> <br /> The door was thrown open and the butler rushed in. His face paled at the sight before him, but he didn't lose a minute. <br /> <br /> He hurried to the bed and grabbed the man's arm, shouting, "Mr. Sullivan! Mr. Sullivan! Please let go of her! You're killing her!"<br /> <br /> "She deserves to die!" The man had an unhinged look in his eyes and spit came out of his mouth along with his words.<br /> <br /> The butler knew that couldn't stop the man physically, so he knelt by the bed and started begging for Rachel's life. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, please! If you kill her, your grandma will roll over in her grave. She won't be able to rest in peace!"<br /> <br /> Grandma?<br /> <br /> Hearing the butler's words, Victor Sullivan loosened his grip slightly.<br /> <br /> Rachel grabbed the opportunity to escape his grasp and crawl away. Her back hit the headboard and she stayed there curled in a ball, looking at Victor with wide, fearful eyes.<br /> <br /> The butler saw the change in Victor's attitude as a sign to keep pushing. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, be patient! Today your divorce will become official. You will never see her again! Spare her life for her mother's sake. Her mother once saved your grandma, remember? Please calm down!"<br /> <br /> Victor seemed to see the reason behind his butler's words. He got out of bed, put on his pajamas in silence. When he was done, he turned around and spoke, in a voice cold as ice.<br /> <br /> "I'll tell Ivan to send the divorce papers here. Sign it and then get the hell out. I don't want to see your face ever again."<br /> <br /> With a final look filled with hatred, he left the room, followed by the butler.<br /> <br /> The door slammed behind him, the sound hurting Rachel's ears. She covered herself with the bedcovers, still in shock. Her face was deathly pale, her heart fluttering in her chest.<br /> <br /> The adrenaline coursing through her veins had dulled the pain until now. But when the worst had passed, Rachel felt that her entire body was sore. She hurt everywhere.<br /> <br /> Rachel couldn't find any women's clothes in the closet. It contained only men's shirts and black suits.<br /> <br /> She grabbed a shirt and a pair of suit pants and put them on. The pants were ridiculously large for her, dragging on the ground.<br /> <br /> Rachel slowly walked to the sofa and sat down. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes. <br /> <br /> After quietly sorting things out in her mind, she finally came to two conclusions.<br /> <br /> She really had been reborn.<br /> <br /> The one inhabiting this body was a worthless girl madly in love with Victor. Her mother had gotten sick and died a while ago and her father was a pathetic scumbag.<br /> <br /> There was a knock on the door.<br /> <br /> The sound startled Rachel out of her reverie. A cold voice came from the other side of the door. "May I come in?"<br /> <br /> She hastily rolled up the bottom of the pants and hurried to open the door. A tall and dull-looking man stood there, holding a stack of papers in his hand.<br /> <br /> "Ivan." Rachel quickly searched her memories and retrieved the man's name.<br /> <br /> His face expressionless, Ivan Chavez handed her the documents and a pen. "Mr. Sullivan asked me to see you out. As soon as you sign the divorce papers."<br /> <br /> Rachel glanced at the documents, recalling what the butler had said earlier. Today was the second wedding anniversary of Victor and Rachel, but from now on, it would also be the end of their marriage.<br /> <br /> Was the divorce agreement cooked up in less than an hour? Victor must really hate Rachel.<br /> <br /> She took the agreement and started turning pages, signing "Rachel Bennet" neatly wherever it was necessary. She was done in less than thirty seconds.<br /> <br /> "There you go," Rachel said, as she returned the papers to Ivan and clicked the pen.<br /> <br /> Ivan looked at her in astonishment, eyebrows raised. He didn't expect it to be so easy. When Victor asked him to bring over the agreement, he told Ivan that Rachel didn't want to sign it, so he might have to use force.<br /> <br /> "Don't you want to read it first?" Ivan said, still not reaching out to take the papers.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows and replied flatly, "No."<br /> <br /> "Aren't you curious about what you are getting out of this divorce?" Ivan was frowning now, looking more and more confused.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows while hitching up her pants. She flashed Ivan a smile. "There is no need to read it. I know that there are two possible outcomes. One is that I am in a world of debt and go bankrupt soon, and the other is that I have to leave this marriage without a penny. I am sure Victor put together a team of exceptional lawyers to work on the best option for him."<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes darkened. He took the divorce papers and said, "Mr. Sullivan just wants you to walk away without getting any of his assets."<br /> <br /> "Well, make sure you thank him on my behalf." Rachel really didn't give a shit about it at all. It was this body's former occupant that loved Victor, not her. She didn't even care if the man lived or died.<br /> <br /> She didn't want a violent man like him for a husband. A man that would strangle his own wife to death. She now had another chance to live and she intended to make the best of it.<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes fell on Rachel's neck.<br /> <br /> "Would you like me to call a doctor for you?"<br /> <br /> Rachel was at a loss for a moment. Then she remembered the bruises around her neck and raised her hand to touch them. The feeling of suffocation came back to her and she had to shake her head to get rid of it.<br /> <br /> "No, thanks. I'm fine. It's not that bad," she replied, shrugging.<br /> <br /> "Then please pack your things." Ivan's tone was back to normal: cold and businesslike.<br /> <br /> She nodded and left Victor's bedroom barefoot, still pulling up her pants. She had a long way to go to reach her own bedroom. Victor hated Rachel so much that he didn't even want to bump into her in the corridor, so her room was all the way to the other side of the huge house.<br /> <br /> It took her nearly two minutes to get there.<br /> <br /> Her bedroom had originally been a storage room, but soon after Rachel and Victor's wedding, Rachel moved in here. She pushed the door open and walked through the narrow doorway nimbly.<br /> <br /> The room was really small. It only contained a bed and a dressing table, the furniture was so close together that there was no room to walk around properly.<br /> <br /> Rachel didn't have much to pack. Except for her cosmetics strewn all over the dressing table and a few clothes, she didn't have much else. She changed into her own clothes and stuffed the rest of her things into a suitcase.<br /> <br /> "Okay, I'm all packed. I'm leaving now. I hope I will never see you again, Ivan! Goodbye!" Rachel said in a carefree, cool voice as she dragged her suitcase across the hall.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, where do you think you are going?" Suddenly, the elevator doors slid open, revealing a woman in a business suit. Her high heels clicked on the marble floor, the sound crisp and curt, matching her sharp voice perfectly.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Alice Gave Her A Hard Time<br /> Rachel stopped to look at the woman approaching her.<br /> <br /> "Alice?" Alice Jenkins was her half-sister, a veritable two-faced bch.<br /> <br /> As she stood in front of Rachel, Alice grinned. "My dear sister, are you moving out?"<br /> <br /> Rachel rolled her eyes at her, and put on a fake smile. "It's been so long since we last saw each other. Why do you still like asking dumb questions so much? "<br /> <br /> Her remark left Alice livid. But she soon suppressed her anger, changing into an innocent expression again.<br /> <br /> "I'm just trying to show you some concern. How can you think of me that way?"<br /> <br /> Concern?<br /> <br /> Tha was funny. She just wanted to mock her.<br /> <br /> With a face devoid of emotion, Ivan intervened in their conversation. He reminded Rachel, "Mrs. Sullivan, it's time for you to leave. Mr. Sullivan is about to come back."<br /> <br /> The corners of her mouth twitched. She pointed at Alice and said to Ivan, "It's not that I don't want to leave; it's just that there's a mad dog blocking my path. I'm afraid that she'll bite me."<br /> <br /> Ivan was rendered speechless.<br /> <br /> Alice began to shed crocodile tears. "Rachel, I know you're getting divorced today. I was really worried that you'll be sad, so I left my work early to come to see you. How... How could you say that to me? I'm your sister."<br /> <br /> "Shut up! I don't have a dog for a sister." Rachel quickly distanced herself from Alice, and turned to Ivan again. "Ivan, shall we?"<br /> <br /> His temples began to ache, and he failed to maintain his stern expression for a moment. Left with no other choice, he said to Alice, "Miss Jenkins, please excuse us."<br /> <br /> Alice bit her lower lip. Her eyes were fiery with rage at this moment, but they were covered by her bangs.<br /> <br /> "Ivan, an untrained dog cannot comprehend human language," Rachel said to taunt her.<br /> <br /> That remark made Alice fume with rage. She clenched her fists, and glared at Rachel.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing Alice restrain her anger, Rachel tilted her head a little, smiling to vex Alice even more.<br /> <br /> The arrogant smile on Rachel's face annoyed Alice.<br /> <br /> 'What the hell is going on? Rachel is usually timid, and she's always obedient and grateful to me. Why did her personality turn upside down?'<br /> <br /> "Miss Jenkins," Ivan called out; his voice held a hint of impatience.<br /> <br /> Alice pressed her lips, hiding her suspicions. "Ivan, I'm not implying that I don't want my sister to leave. It's just that Victor asked me to see how things are going here."<br /> <br /> Both Ivan and Rachel were surprised to hear that.<br /> <br /> "Victor knew that I was coming here, so he specifically told me to watch Rachel pack up and leave. He said that according to the divorce agreement, Rachel wasn't allowed to take anything that belongs to the Sullivan family. I'm just here to make sure she upholds the agreement." Alice looked at the suitcase beside Rachel.<br /> <br /> "So, Rachel, could you please open your suitcase? I need to check if you took anything that doesn't belong to you."<br /> <br /> Rachel frowned at that. "It only contains a few clothes. I didn't take anything that belongs to the Sullivans!"<br /> <br /> Alice grabbed the suitcase from her and said, "I'm afraid it's not up to you to decide. If you didn't take anything inappropriate with you, why are you so afraid of letting me see the contents of your suitcase?"<br /> <br /> After that, she laid the suitcase on the ground and opened it.<br /> <br /> Inside it, several clothes had been piled up in a mess. It seemed that Rachel really didn't take anything valuable with her.<br /> <br /> Alice gritted her teeth. She didn't expect that Rachel was telling the truth. Unwilling to let her go so easily, Alice rummaged through the clothes. It was as if she wasn't going to stop until she had found a piece of evidence that could prove Rachel had stolen something from the Sullivans.<br /> <br /> The only contents of the suitcase were Rachel's clothes and cosmetics, and yet Alice kept rummaging through the suitcase for over ten minutes.<br /> <br /> "Are you done checking?" Rachel glanced down at Alice.<br /> <br /> "I'm just following Victor's orders. It's better to check thoroughly," Alice replied softly.<br /> <br /> "Fine. Go ahead and check those clothes for as long as you want. I don't want them anymore." Rachel shook her head. The bruises on her body still hadn't healed yet. She really didn't want to waste any more time with Alice, and she didn't want to wait for Victor to come back and try to strangle her again.<br /> <br /> Now that she had said her piece, Rachel walked past Alice and towards the elevator and pushed the button. Ivan followed suit.<br /> <br /> Ding!<br /> <br /> Before long, the elevator arrived at the third floor. The sliding doors opened slowly. Just before Rachel could walk in, she suddenly felt a chill. The temperature around her dropped several degrees, making her shiver and stop in her tracks.<br /> <br /> The first thing she saw was a pair of shiny leather shoes. When she raised her head, she caught sight of Victor's aloof face.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan." Ivan was the first to react, bowing his head respectfully.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, it seems that you've forgotten what I told you this morning." There was a flash of warning in Victor's eyes, and he sounded ill-tempered.<br /> <br /> The second she saw him, Rachel thought of how Victor choked her this morning. She trembled with fear, wary of what he might do to her.<br /> <br /> Standing in attention, she said, "No, I remember."<br /> <br /> "Oh, you do? Then why the hell are you still here?" Victor asked, striding towards her.<br /> <br /> Rachel kept pacing backwards until her back was against the wall. She closed her eyes for a second and then braced herself to look into his eyes.<br /> <br /> "You should ask Alice. I was about to leave, but she appeared out of nowhere and delayed me. That's why I..."<br /> <br /> Rachel was half-way to finishing her explanation when Alice suddenly interrupted her.<br /> <br /> "How could you lie like that?" she asked with tearful eyes.<br /> <br /> "I'm not lying!" At this moment, Rachel was cursing Alice in her head. If it weren't for this woman, she would've left an hour ago, and she wouldn't have run into Victor.<br /> <br /> Damn it.<br /> <br /> As if she was about to break into tears, Alice said, "Victor, I didn't mean to delay Rachel's departure. I was just following your orders to check her luggage. I'm afraid that she'll steal your stuff. My sister revels in lying. I didn't expect that she'd lie again this time."<br /> <br /> Alice's words reminded Victor of everything that Rachel had done, making him look more sullen than usual. "Do you honestly think I won't try to kill you?"<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, he strangled Rachel with his hand, slamming her head against the wall. She didn't see that coming, but she managed to grab Victor's hand instinctively. The pain coming from the back of her head made her dizzy.<br /> <br /> "Vic... Victor!" Rachel called out with difficulty.<br /> <br /> "How dare you test my patience over and over?" said Victor.<br /> <br /> With every passing second, Rachel was losing her consciousness. She couldn't break free from Victor's grasp at all.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing the situation, Ivan decided to intervene. He hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Mr. Sullivan, if something happens to Mrs. Sullivan, those bastards in the board of directors will use that against you. If that happens, your plan of concentrating equity will be hampered."<br /> <br /> "Fk off!" Victor roared. His fingers that were gripping Rachel's neck turned pale because of how strong he was gripping her.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 I Will Haunt You Forever<br /> As much as he worried about Rachel, Ivan didn't dare to talk back to Victor again.<br /> <br /> She didn't want to die.<br /> <br /> She used the last of her strength to push Victor's hand away. Once she was able to catch her breath a little, she stared at him; her eyes turning red.<br /> <br /> "If I die here and now, then I will die as your wife; still a member of the Sullivans. Someday, when you die, you will be buried next to me, and I will haunt you beyond the afterlife!"<br /> <br /> Rachel said those words with difficulty; her face had turned red due to the suffocation. Gradually, Rachel had no strength to struggle. Little by little, she could feel her consciousness slipping.<br /> <br /> "Who do you think you are? You don't deserve to be buried in my family's mausoleum." Victor sounded indifferent. "If you die, I'll cremate your body and throw the ashes into a bin. A woman like you deserves to rest with the rubbish!"<br /> <br /> Rachel burst into laughter.<br /> <br /> "Why are you laughing?" Victor asked.<br /> <br /> "Even if you throw my ashes into a bin, it won't change the fact that I'm your legal wife, and I'm part of your family tree. You loathe me, don't you? Sorry, but you'll never get rid of me, even if I die!"<br /> <br /> Victor stared daggers at her as he strengthened his grip, lifting her in midair. Consequently, Rachel yelped in pain, and tears rolled down her cheeks.<br /> <br /> Just when she was hallucinating of the shameless couple in her previous life, Victor suddenly let go of her.<br /> <br /> Rachel fell to the ground. She felt like every bone in her body had been broken, and even the slightest movement made her groan in pain.<br /> <br /> "Ahem! Ahem!" She coughed violently and gasped for air, breathing with so much difficulty.<br /> <br /> Ivan glanced at Rachel indifferently and lowered his head. "Mr. Sullivan, it's all my fault. I didn't urge her to leave in time. I'm willing to suffer the consequences."<br /> <br /> Alice turned pale with fear as she watched Victor beat up Rachel. She got down on her knees and begged, "Victor, I... This is my fault! I didn't check Rachel's suitcase faster. That's why she had the opportunity to lie and buy time for herself."<br /> <br /> Rachel could feel her chest tightening as she coughed over and over.<br /> <br /> "I didn't take anything that belongs to you," she said in a hoarse voice.<br /> <br /> Victor took out some wet wipes to clean his hand that had touched Rachel's neck. Disgust was evident on his face.<br /> <br /> "You didn't take anything? You bought all your clothes using my money. How dare you say that you didn't take my stuff?"<br /> <br /> Rachel pursed her lips, unable to refute his logic. On her wedding day, Alice had burned all the clothes that Rachel had bought herself. Alice said that her clothes were too vulgar, and Victor probably wouldn't want to see her wearing them.<br /> <br /> "Take off her clothes and throw her out!" After saying that, Victor left along with Ivan without hesitation.<br /> <br /> Only when those two had left did Alice get up and walk towards Rachel. Her previous ostensibly tenderness had now disappeared.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, you married Victor and slept with him, but so what? In the end, he kicked you out! You wanted to make him fall in love with you, didn't you? That's never going to happen! Do you really think I asked you to wear heavy makeup and put on weight because Victor likes it? This is hilarious. I can't believe you actually fell for that. No man will ever like a fat and idiotic woman like you! I was messing with you. I just wanted to make him hate you even more!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's face turned ghastly pale. When she heard what Alice said, she didn't even look at her. She was indifferent to Alice's words and did not seem to hear her provocation.<br /> <br /> Seeing that Rachel wasn't responding, Alice gritted her teeth in anger. "Why are you looking at me like that?"<br /> <br /> "Huh! You're so pathetic." Rachel chuckled, trying to endure the pain.<br /> <br /> She was sure that she had suffered an internal injury. Just the act of talking was painful enough to make her feel like her organs were being twisted together.<br /> <br /> But she couldn't afford to show any sign of weakness. Otherwise, Alice would revel in torturing her. Evil was in that woman's nature.<br /> <br /> "What did you say?" Alice's eyes widened in surprise. When Rachel sneered at her, she was goaded.<br /> <br /> "I said," Rachel took a deep breath to alleviate the pain in her chest. "You are living a miserable, ridiculous life. You're the most pathetic person I've ever met! Being called a bastard must make you feel inferior, doesn't it? You've been trying your best to steal everything I had since we were kids, because I'm the Bennet family's legitimate daughter, and you're just a dirty little bastard. You are always unpresentable!"<br /> <br /> "Bch! Shut the fk up!" Alice screamed. It seemed that Rachel had struck a sore spot.<br /> <br /> Rachel grinned and continued, "These past two years, I trusted you, and yet you deceived me by taking advantage of my desire to draw Victor's attention. You fooled me into doing stupid things in front of him, so that he would loathe me. At first, he didn't feel anything for me, and then he began to hate me. And now, he's too disgusted to even lay eyes on me. You must be proud of this accomplishment, aren't you?"<br /> <br /> Alice clenched her fists, looking at Rachel with hatred. "Well, you should blame yourself for being so stupid!"<br /> <br /> "You're right. I was stupid," Rachel admitted. Right now, she felt ashamed for what she had done in the past two years.<br /> <br /> Despite being the daughter of a rich and powerful family, she had lived a pathetic life. How did she end up this way?<br /> <br /> "You have a clear estimation of yourself." The look on Alice's face made it seem like she was the winner between them.<br /> <br /> "I almost died, and that's enough to wake me up. I'm not stupid like you after all." Rachel wanted to make sure that she didn't have any broken bones, so she propped herself up using her hands. However, the pain was far too much for her to bear, so she fell down once more.<br /> <br /> Sweat dripped down her forehead as she groaned in pain; her hands, pressing against the hard floor. The veins on the back of her hands were bulging because she was exerting every ounce of strength she could muster.<br /> <br /> Alice's face turned grim.<br /> <br /> "Your end is near, Rachel. How dare you talk to me like that? Remember, you are no longer Victor's wife, and are therefore no longer part of the Sullivan family! His grandmother is dead now, so there's no one left to protect you! If you have a brain in that empty head of yours, you should kneel down and beg me to persuade our father to allow you to go home!"<br /> <br /> When Alice mentioned Victor's grandmother, a faraway look appeared on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Victor's grandmother was the one who chose Rachel to be his wife. Not long after she married into the Sullivan family, the old lady died of illness. His grandmother used to be Rachel's protector when she was still alive. During that time, Rachel lived a dignified life within the Sullivan family's residence.<br /> <br /> "Do you think you'll be able to marry Victor and share the Sullivan Group with him after I divorce him?"<br /> <br /> Upon hearing that, Alice stood proudly. "You were able to do it, so I probably can as well."<br /> <br /> "You can't," Rachel said in a weak, yet firm tone. "Why are you so confident that Victor will agree to marry you? Just because he's also an illegitimate child, you think you're good enough to be his wife?<br /> <br /> Your mother is a mistress; a home-wrecker! Unlike you, Victor was born before his father even got married. And his mother never destroyed the man's marriage later!<br /> <br /> With that being said, you will never deserve to be Victor's wife," said Rachel.<br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Will And Testament<br /> Alice's fingernails were digging into her palms, and her chest was heaving up and down due to the anger she was feeling.<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, she pulled Rachel up and slapped her face.<br /> <br /> The slap left a palm print on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Blood oozed from the corner of her mouth. Obviously, Alice didn't hold back when she slapped Rachel.<br /> <br /> Gnashing her teeth, Alice said to the servants, "You two, hold her up!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's vision was fading because of how hard she had gotten hit. The servants didn't dawdle, and they immediately followed Alice's command. Each of them held one of Rachel's arms to restrict her.<br /> <br /> With a murderous gaze, Alice clasped Rachel's chin, forcing her to raise her head.<br /> <br /> The imprint of an open hand was evident on the right side of her face; it was red and swollen. Once more, Alice raised her hand and snarled, "You're quite glib, aren't you? Say something again, I dare you!"<br /> <br /> "Alice, do you know what my life motto is?" Rachel spat out a mouthful of blood, trying her best to keep her eyes open. Her almond-shaped eyes looked as cold as ice. Her steely gaze was enough to intimidate people.<br /> <br /> "Ten eyes for an eye, and ten teeth for a single tooth," Rachel sneered. "As long as I live and breathe, I will hunt you down to the ends of the earth, and I will make you suffer for what you've done to me today!"<br /> <br /> For a moment, Alice was startled by her gaze, but she soon came to her senses.<br /> <br /> "Don't try to frighten me with that threat! Do you think a loser like you could scare me?" she said through gritted teeth.<br /> <br /> Right after she said that, Alice hit Rachel's face until it swelled up.<br /> <br /> Her anger was finally quenched when she got tired. She looked at Rachel dead in the eyes and said to the servants, "Didn't you hear Mr. Sullivan earlier?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, ma'am. He ordered us to remove her clothes and throw her out," a servant said, lowering her gaze.<br /> <br /> Alice massaged her sore wrist, smiling with satisfaction before she decided to strut away.<br /> <br /> Before long, the servants stripped Rachel down to her pelt, leaving only a set of silk underwear to cover her naked body.<br /> <br /> Unable to resist, Rachel closed her eyes and gave up struggling. She just let them do whatever they wanted to her.<br /> <br /> She knew very well that her survival was now the most important thing.<br /> <br /> The servants supported her on each side as they walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> After all, Rachel was once Victor's wife. Even though the servants loathed her, they still didn't want to bear witness to her embarrassment. Along the way, she didn't see anyone else besides the maids who were escorting her.<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, the butler knocked on the door of the study.<br /> <br /> "Come in," said Victor.<br /> <br /> The butler entered the room and said to him, "Mr. Sullivan, Mrs-Ms. Bennet had been thrown out as you've commanded."<br /> <br /> Victor was currently reading a contract, so he didn't raise his head when he replied, "Did she say anything?"<br /> <br /> "No," said the butler.<br /> <br /> With a snort, Victor thought of what Rachel had said earlier. His eyes brimmed with cruelty as he shut the folder and ordered, "Tell them to throw that bch as far as they can. Don't let that woman disgrace my doorstep."<br /> <br /> The butler was shocked to hear that. "Yes, sir," he answered reluctantly.<br /> <br /> Inside a cramped basement somewhere south of the city...<br /> <br /> "No!" Rachel suddenly woke up, sitting upright and screaming. She was breathing heavily and looking ahead in horror.<br /> <br /> Just then, someone pushed the door open from outside. Seeing that she was awake, the man set aside the medicine he had prepared and walked to the bed.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, you're finally awake," he said with concern.<br /> <br /> Rachel looked at him vigilantly, calming down at once. She tried to recall the man's name, because he looked familiar. However, she couldn't remember who he was at the moment.<br /> <br /> She looked down at her body and remembered that she had been thrown out of Victor's house; half-naked and almost dying. But now, she was still alive, sitting here in a tacky yet neat floral shirt with matching pants.<br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Rachel's voice was hoarse, and it seemed like she was wary of him.<br /> <br /> "We've met before, but you were still a child back then. It's normal that you don't remember me. I'm Andy Torres, your mother's private lawyer." The man smiled at her.<br /> <br /> 'Andy? Mom's lawyer?'<br /> <br /> Rachel remembered that her mother did have a lawyer. "Did you save me?"<br /> <br /> "I did. When I called you, a passerby answered the phone and said that you had fainted. But don't worry, I didn't see anything. The man who found you covered you with a coat, and then I carried you to my car and drove you back here," Andy explained.<br /> <br /> "Then, why am I wearing these clothes?"<br /> <br /> "Oh, I asked an old lady who lives next door to change it for you."<br /> <br /> Rachel breathed a sigh of relief, but she still frowned. "You mentioned that you called me. What for?"<br /> <br /> Her mother died when she was 13. Andy said that he was her mother's lawyer, but Rachel hadn't seen him for so many years. It was suspicious that he suddenly showed up this time.<br /> <br /> Andy got up and walked out of the room. Moments later, he returned with a document, and gave it to Rachel.<br /> <br /> "This is your mother's last will and testament," he said.<br /> <br /> "My mother's will?" Doubt filled Rachel's eyes. If she remembered correctly, her mother departed this world so suddenly that she didn't have the time to make a will.<br /> <br /> Otherwise, Rachel's useless father and his mistress wouldn't have been so reckless and high-profile.<br /> <br /> "Yes, she entrusted me to be the witness of her will when she was still alive. She told me to make this will public, and give it to you on your 24th birthday."<br /> <br /> Now that Andy had mentioned that, Rachel remembered that her birthday was the same day of her divorce with Victor.<br /> <br /> "It's clearly stated in this will that you will inherit all of your mother's assets, including fifteen percent of the Bennet Group's shares, and the villa she lived in before she died," Andy continued.<br /> <br /> Rachel turned to the last page and she saw the name "Elisa Bennet" on the bottom right corner of the paper.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Torres, how many days have I been unconscious?" asked Rachel.<br /> <br /> "Three days."<br /> <br /> She then put away the document and got out of bed. "In that case, they've been living comfortably for three more days. That's enough for them."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Rachel walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, where are you going?" asked Andy.<br /> <br /> Rachel stopped at the door, glancing at the will in her hand. She raised her eyebrows and smiled.<br /> <br /> "Where else? I'm going back home and kick out my father, his bch of a mistress, and their daughter!" With that, Rachel opened the door and strode out.<br /> <br /> Andy was taken aback by what she said for a moment. Somehow, he saw a glimpse of Elisa during her youth.<br /> <br /> As he watched Rachel walk away, Andy put on his suit jacket and followed her quickly.<br /> <br /> In the Bennet family's house, in the Riverside Villa District north of the city...<br /> <br /> Rachel and Andy stood in front of the door. They had been ringing the doorbell dozens of times, and yet nobody was answering.<br /> <br /> Annoyed by the constant ringing, finally the housekeeper trotted outside and shouted, "Stop it! Who is there? A debt collector or something? Stop ringing it! You're driving me crazy!"<br /> <br /> Right after she stopped talking, the housekeeper opened the side door and looked at the visitors with a frown. She was stunned to see who they were.<br /> <br /> "You... it's you!" The housekeeper's face turned pale, and a chill ran down her spine because of how intimidating Rachel looked.<br /> <br /> Rachel put on a sardonic smile. "Well, we do have a debt to collect."<br /> <br /> ......<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Her fiance and her best friend worked together and set her up. She lost everything and died in the street. However, she was reborn. <br /> <br /> The moment she opened her eyes, her husband was trying to strangle her. Luckily, she survived that. She signed the divorce agreement without hesitation and was ready for her miserable life. <br /> <br /> To her surprise, her mother in this life left her a great deal of money. She prepared to turn the tables and aveng herself...<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &18&	WATCH_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-x	108394237578957	Fiction books	https://facebook.com/100075615382269	52,573	2	944,184,997,464,226	2024-07-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Watch more	Fiction books	120212445788010608	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-xy-0720-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=432604739574735	2024-07-02 04:03	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449763783_438573405720573_1024191017420925262_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XAyErXPMfeAQ7kNvgF0zR7Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCvpX5jWgQxjtxDhaVuvRXAt3Kp3FdrI80eTFyo6hiSdw&oe=669249FB	person_profile	Fiction books	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449109478_496681669554582_1165304251387727290_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TWpDcabI0dUQ7kNvgEyHlr7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCwjC7wWAf_Qzc6t5OD3HWNnsTh_e-sfJgji1sd1RoSLQ&oe=66926355	3	Fiction books	2024-07-05 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,915,482	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1915440}'	No	2024-07-08 20:08	active	1089	1970010530108779	Read more	His father discovered his wife's affair and was subsequently killed by her. In grief, he brought a woman to spend the night, publicly admitting his marital status to inherit the estate, shocking everyone!<br /> =====<br /> Jason squinted and turned the other way, surprising to see a half-naked woman sleeping in his bed. <br /> He quickly got out of bed and realized he was not wearing any clothes and ran into the bathroom in confused.<br /> "Who is she? And why is she in his bed?" Jason thought and ran his hand through his black hair.<br /> His eyes fell on the gold ring on his finger. He quickly turned his hand and looked at it closely. He removed it from his finger and read the initials engraved inside it.<br /> <br /> "J.H"<br /> <br /> "What does that mean? Jason Haward?" Jason thought.<br /> <br /> "Looks like my initials, why do I have a wedding ring on my finger?" he thought, and remembered the lady.<br /> <br /> "Maybe she put it on my finger," he thought.<br /> <br /> Back in the bedroom, the lady, Julia, had just woken up but held her head in pain. She tried to recall what she did to give her such a terrible headache.<br /> <br /> Julia attempted to sit up but quickly realized she was naked. She covered herself with the sheet but felt some discomfort between her legs.<br /> <br /> "Where am I and what the hell happened?" she thought, realizing the strange environment.<br /> <br /> "O no, what did I do this time?" Julia stared in horror at the blood stain on the bed when she finally got out of bed.<br /> <br /> She had lost her innocence and yet had no memory of how that happened. How could she have lost her innocence like this? She wanted a memorable experience for her first time, yet she had no recollection of how this one happened or even how it felt. Just when she was lost in her thoughts, the door opened and a tall handsome man with blue eyes and black hair stepped into the room.<br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Jason asked in his deep voice.<br /> <br /> "I should be asking you that question. Who are you and how did I get here?" Julia questioned, moving backwards, away from the king-size bed.<br /> <br /> Jason's gaze shifted to Julia's hand, which was holding the sheet she had wrapped around herself with part of it sweeping the floor, and he saw she also had a ring on her finger. He walked towards her and she was startled by his sudden advancement towards her. She started moving backwards and he kept advancing towards her.<br /> <br /> "Don't get any closer or I will scream," Julia threatened.<br /> <br /> "Scream all you want, like someone is going to hear you."Jason retorted.<br /> <br /> Julia's back hit the window and he grabbed her hand roughly.<br /> <br /> "How did you get this?" Jason questioned, drawing Julia's attention to the ring on her finger.<br /> <br /> Julia looked at it puzzled and could not answer him. She had no idea how she got it but she loved the diamond stones around it because they were very beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Are you hearing me, woman?" Jason yelled at her, tightening his grip around her wrist and shaking her violently.<br /> <br /> Julia winced in pain and her face quickly became red.<br /> <br /> "I don't know" Julia replied, her voice trembling.<br /> <br /> "You don't know how you ended up in my bed?" Jason yelled at her.<br /> <br /> "I don't know," Julia cried and tears rolled down her cheeks.<br /> <br /> Jason threw her to the ground out of annoyance.<br /> <br /> "Get out of this room before I get back," he said and heard his phone ringing.<br /> <br /> Jason scanned the entire room following the sound and finally saw it lying on the bedside table. He walked back to the bedside and picked it up. It was a call from his brother.<br /> <br /> "Hello James," Jason said.<br /> <br /> "Hello Jason, what time are you coming over," James asked.<br /> <br /> "Coming over for what? I have some things to do at the office. So, whatever you want to say, spit it out quickly," Jason replied, annoyed.<br /> <br /> "Brother, it is Saturday. Dad came home sick last night; we sent him to the hospital. Mum called you, have you forgotten?" James reminded him.<br /> <br /> Jason stood frozen. He had no memory of that. He thought very hard but nothing.<br /> <br /> "Sure, I am coming over" Jason replied calmly.<br /> <br /> Jason ended the call still trying to recall things, but could not recall anything. He placed the phone back on the table but his eyes caught sight of the stain on the white sheet.<br /> <br /> "Is that blood?" Jason thought, knowing exactly what that meant.<br /> <br /> "Does it mean I am her first?" Jason thought, turning to look at the woman covering herself with the sheet still standing in front of the window.<br /> <br /> "F**k!" Jason exclaimed, understanding he had to take responsibility, but he was not ready for that.<br /> <br /> "What is your name" he questioned, but was met with silence.<br /> <br /> "Answer me dammit," Jason yelled, causing Julia to jump out of fright.<br /> <br /> "Julia Harrison," Julia replied, trembling.<br /> <br /> "Julia, get out of my house now," Jason yelled.<br /> <br /> "I don't know where my clothes are," Julia said in a trembling voice.<br /> <br /> "What size are you?" Jason asked in frustration.<br /> <br /> "What?" Julia replied , not understanding what he meant.<br /> <br /> "Your clothes size" Jason repeated.<br /> <br /> "8" Julia replied.<br /> <br /> Jason picked up his phone and dialled a number.<br /> <br /> "Bring me a female dress, size 8. You have 15 minutes," Jason said and disconnected the call.<br /> <br /> Jason entered the bathroom, leaving Julia in the bedroom.<br /> <br /> "Who the heck is that guy and why is he so mean?" Julia thought.<br /> <br /> She started looking around to see if she would find her clothes but there was nothing. A knock on the door startled her. She stood frozen, not sure what to do. The man came out of the bathroom.<br /> <br /> "What? You didn't hear the knock or you didn't know how to answer the doors?" Jason asked annoyed.<br /> <br /> He walked to the door and opened it. Collecting the dress bag from the young man at the door. He closed the door without a word. He took two steps and threw the bag at her.<br /> <br /> "Get dressed and get out before I come out," he said and went back to the bathroom.<br /> <br /> Julia opened it and put on the straight blue dress. She wasn't wearing any underwear and had no shoes on either. She quickly made her way towards the door and opened it. She stepped out and closed it shut by banging it, making a loud noise.<br /> <br /> There were lots of people working in the house all wearing uniforms. They all turned to look at her. She quickly turned white as a sheet.<br /> <br /> "I am sorry," Julia apologized and looked around her and ran towards the staircase.<br /> <br /> She descended the staircase but was not sure how to get out of the house. She saw a lady carrying a tray in one direction. The aroma told her it was food.<br /> <br /> "Please how do I get outside," Julia asked, standing on the last stairs, and the lady pointed her in the right direction.<br /> <br /> Julia quickly ran in the direction the lady had shown her and was soon out of the house after descending a never-ending long staircase. She looked behind her to see the huge eight-storey beautiful building she had just exited.<br /> <br /> She walked barefoot on the wet pavement, indicating it had rained the night before. She raised her hand to stop a cab and realized she didn't have any money and she was not familiar with the area either.<br /> <br /> "O God, I need to stop clubbing and drinking. How did I end up with that handsome ass, and here?" she thought as she looked around in frustration.<br /> <br /> Julia had no phone to call anyone. She continued walking down the street. She was not sure how long she had been walking when a Bugatti Chiron slowed down close to her.<br /> <br /> She ignored it and continued walking. The car honked at her so she stopped to see who it was.<br /> <br /> "Get in" came the deep familiar voice.<br /> <br /> It was the man who had yelled at her earlier in the Storey building.<br /> <br /> Julia ignored him and continued to walk. A man got down from the front in a black tuxedo wearing sunglasses. He walked up to Julia and grabbed her by the arm, pulling her towards the car.<br /> <br /> "Let go of me, I am going to scream," Julia threatened as she struggled to free herself.<br /> <br /> "Go ahead, like anyone will come," replied the gentleman as he continued to drag her towards the parked car.<br /> <br /> He opened the door to the back seat and threw Julia into the car. She fell onto the seat but quickly collected herself and pushed herself backwards till her back hit the car door. She was trembling as she was very terrified.<br /> <br /> "Listen, woman, when I say something, you listen and obey. Get it?" Jason said in a deep calm voice.<br /> <br /> His eyes were fixated on his phone as his fingers typed away. Julia pushed back further as if she wanted to go through the door and end up outside.<br /> <br /> "Where to?" Jason asked, still looking at his phone.<br /> <br /> "Belle glade," Julia replied, trembling.<br /> <br /> Jason shifted his gaze to look at her briefly and could see how terrified she was, but he was not bothered. He turned his gaze back to his phone and gave the instructions to the driver to drop Julia off at the destination she mentioned. Julia sat in the corner of the car with her back pressed against the back seat door, with her head lowered all through the journey till they got to her destination.<br /> <br /> Upon reaching her destination and the door unlocked Julia jumped out of the car.<br /> <br /> "Thank you" Julia managed to say and moved away quickly.<br /> <br /> She kept looking back occasionally and realized the car had left.<br /> <br /> "What a rude man," Julia thought as she continued walking down the street towards her home.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 We Lost Him<br /> "What a rude man," Julia thought as she continued walking down the street towards her home.<br /> <br /> She walked down the pavement and entered the porch of a house built with wood and painted white. She looked inside the house from the window, trying to sneak in.<br /> <br /> "Julia, come inside," came her mother's voice, "I know you are standing there.<br /> <br /> Julia squeezed her eyes and pursed her lips. She opened the front door, which was not locked, and entered the house.<br /> <br /> "Good morning, ma'am," Julia said with her hands behind her back.<br /> <br /> Her mother was sitting on the sofa reading a book with her eyeglasses on. She didn't lift her head to look at Julia standing almost behind her.<br /> <br /> "Where are you coming from?" Julia's mother asked, her eyes still fixated on the book she was reading.<br /> <br /> "Er...ma'am, I... I," Julia stammered, scratching the back of her neck.<br /> <br /> Her mother closed the book she was reading and, removing her glasses, turned halfway to look at Julia. She frowns and gets up to look at the dress Julia is wearing closely. She realized Julia was not wearing any shoes.<br /> <br /> She checked the label and gasped. She frowned, looking at Julia. Julia was puzzled and was wondering why her mother was examining the dress she was wearing.<br /> <br /> "Where did you get the money to buy this dress?" questioned her mother.<br /> <br /> "I ...I ... didn't buy it, it's a gift from a friend," Julia said quickly.<br /> <br /> "A gift from a friend. Which of your friends earns that much to get you this? Is it Tilly, your jobless friend or Michael the bread seller?" Julia's mother asked, with her hands on her waist and Julia was silent.<br /> <br /> She couldn't bring herself to talk about the events of the morning.<br /> <br /> "Where are the clothes you were wearing yesterday," Julia's mother questioned, "And why are you not in shoes?" she asked.<br /> <br /> "I don't know," Julia said honestly.<br /> <br /> "Are you sleeping with men now? The dress you are wearing is from a Louis Vuitton collection," Julia's mother pointed out.<br /> <br /> "No," Julia replied immediately, "I am not, and I won't do that. It is just that last night was a mess and ...and ...please mum, let's not talk about it," she said and ran off to her room.<br /> <br /> "What is she hiding?" Julia's mother thought, staring in the direction Julia had run through.<br /> <br /> After dropping her off, Jason was on his way to the hospital. He sat quietly at the back trying to recall the last thing he remembered. He had been invited to a musical program as the guest of honour and he went with his dad.<br /> <br /> He recalled the media taking pictures of him and his dad when they arrived before he was ushered through a private hall to the hall where the music festival was happening. That is all he remembers.<br /> <br /> "Sir, we are here," the driver called out to Jason, interrupting his thoughts. Jason rolled down the glass and looked outside.<br /> <br /> HCA Florida Westside Hospital, he read the sign. Yes, that is the name of the hospital his brother had sent to him. He got out of the car and walked towards the hospital accompanied by four formidable men.<br /> <br /> "Is that Jason Haward?" a passerby asked her friend she was walking with.<br /> <br /> "Yes, it is him. Is he coming to donate to this hospital?" the lady asked her friend, excited to see him.<br /> <br /> "Quick, take a picture of me with him in the background. Hurry" the lady shrieked.<br /> <br /> "Girl, unless you can make him stop walking, I don't know how that is possible. Those men walking with him will destroy your phone if you click any picture he didn't permit," the passerby pointed out to her friend before they walked away still admiring him from a distance.<br /> <br /> With Jason's presence around the hospital, a few crowds began to gather outside the hospital compound just to catch a glimpse of him.<br /> <br /> With his cold aura, he entered the hospital and was met by his brother. The medical staff, even though they were busy working, managed to steal some glances at him.<br /> <br /> "What happened to Papa?" James questioned, looking at Jason's face with worry.<br /> <br /> "What did the doctor say," Jason asked in a deep, calm voice.<br /> <br /> "Nothing yet, Mother is with him now," James announced and led Jason to the ward where his father was lying in bed, wearing a hospital gown, with his eyes closed and hooked to so many machines.<br /> <br /> Jason wanted to ask his father what had happened because he had been with him the previous night and didn't have any of his guards around except his father's guards. They would not say anything to him. His mother turned to look at him tear-eyed as soon as she heard the door open. Jason stood behind his mother, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.<br /> <br /> "He got home almost at midnight and fainted before he could even climb the staircase to the bedroom. He has been like this since we brought him here," Mrs Haward said and sniffled.<br /> <br /> Jason rubbed Mrs Haward's shoulders gently and she held Jason's hand. The doctor walked in seeing the entire family.<br /> <br /> He said, "I need to speak to one of you," the doctor said, and looked at them.<br /> <br /> James was the eldest, so he went with the doctor, leaving Jason with their mother. She held her husband's hand in hers, dropping kisses on the back of his hand in tears. Jason's phone buzzed, making him exit the ward. As soon as Mrs Haward was alone with her husband, she dropped his hand on the bed and leaned in closer to his ears.<br /> <br /> "You think you are smart; you want to kick me and my son out of the house and leave us with nothing. Now I am going to manage all your property. It is so amazing how you did everything just so I get nothing, but now I am getting everything." Mrs Haward said smiling and running her fingers through her husband's hair.<br /> <br /> "You know why I love the rules of your family so much. Unless that rude son of yours can find a woman to marry his rudeness this minute, I don't see how you win," Mrs Haward added, smiling, but quickly changed her demeanour and planted a kiss on his cheeks when he heard the door opening.<br /> <br /> "Mum, you can't keep crying like this, you need to be strong for him," James said as soon as he entered.<br /> <br /> "What did the doctor say," Mrs Haward questioned, her eyes red with tears.<br /> <br /> James looked at her, not sure whether to tell her everything, "He would be fine," he managed to say.<br /> <br /> "We just need to take good care of him," James added.<br /> <br /> They both turned to look at him when they heard him mention Jason's name weakly, but then his body started jerking violently and the machine's alarms started going off. James pressed the button for the doctor and rushed out to get one but was met by three medical practitioners at the entrance who entered and quickly tried to attend to him, sending them out of the room. They did everything they could but, in the end, they lost him. The nurse unplugged the machine and started taking it off him. The two doctors proceeded out of the ward and were met by Jason, James and their mother.<br /> <br /> "I am sorry," the doctor said and their mother froze in her spot.<br /> <br /> She was about to fall to the ground but James caught her.<br /> <br /> "What was wrong with him?" Jason asked James.<br /> <br /> "He was battling colon cancer which had advanced to its final stage. There was not much they could do for him," James said.<br /> <br /> "Colon cancer? How?" Jason questioned, surprised nobody knew about it.<br /> <br /> "Let me take Mum home and inform the rest of the family," James said.<br /> <br /> "I suppose Mirenda is back," Jason asked.<br /> <br /> "Yes, she arrived this morning. This is going to be a shock. She doesn't know anything. I will hold on telling Grandpa," James replied.<br /> <br /> "Leave grandpa to me," Jason said, and James left the hospital with their mother while Jason stayed behind and did the paperwork.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Father's Funeral<br /> "Leave grandpa to me," Jason said, and James left the hospital with their mother while Jason stayed behind and did the paperwork.<br /> <br /> James sat behind the wheel and drove out of the hospital compound with their mother, Mrs Haward, who would not stop crying about her dead husband, sitting next to him in the co-driver's seat. James just felt she needed to cry out as she appeared inconsolable.<br /> <br /> James remained silent with his eyes on the road as he drove back to the family condo. Jason finished the paperwork at the hospital and also headed for their family condo. Ten minutes after James arrived at the condo, Jason also drove in. Jason parked got out of the car, used the elevator, and went to the 12th floor.<br /> <br /> It was a huge floor with six bedrooms, two living rooms, and a well-designed balcony with a pool. The interior was shades of grey and white. They had some beautiful paintings hanging on the walls. Yes, they are a super-rich family.<br /> <br /> Jason entered the visitors' living room and was welcomed by his grandpa and they walked together to the family living room. They sat there for a while chatting.<br /> <br /> "Hello Grandpa," said Jason as soon as they sat down. He looked around for James or their mother but they were nowhere in sight.<br /> <br /> Jason's grandpa sat next to Jason, hugging Jason's shoulders. Jason smiled as he hugged the old man back. The old man sat down properly and Jason helped him support his back with one of the sofa pillows.<br /> <br /> "How is work?" Grandpa enquired after sitting down comfortably.<br /> <br /> "All good, I just have some project contracts to sign on Monday," Jason said, "Grandpa,"<br /> <br /> "Yes" replied Grandpa.<br /> <br /> "Something happened today," Jason began, trying to tell the old man about his father's death.<br /> <br /> "Your father left us," Grandpa completed Jason's statement, "Yeah I know, your mother came home crying," he replied and looked up while Jason stared at his side profile.<br /> <br /> "Your father was a good person; he was almost like a son to me. Sometimes I wish I had him as a son. He was hard-working, smart and very humble; you should pick his character," Grandpa said, turning to look at Jason, and Jason nodded with a cold expression.<br /> <br /> Yeah, his father, Mr Haward, was humble and where did that land him? People took advantage of him all the time and tried to fool him. Jason had already carved an image for himself and he would not drop it for his father's humble character. Today, people fear him and they do not stand and speak to him without trembling. Jason's father, Mr Haward, was merciful, but Jason was ruthless. The only thing Jason picked from his father was his hard-working nature and how smart he was.<br /> <br /> They spent some time together before Grandpa decided he was going to take his afternoon nap. Jason went upstairs after Grandpa had left for his room and found his elder brother and younger sister, both crowded around their mother who was still wiping tears from her eyes, in her room.<br /> <br /> Jaspn's phone buzzed and he stepped out of the room to answer it. He returned to the room a few minutes later.<br /> <br /> "Everything is ready, the burial is set for the day after tomorrow" Jason announced, and left them for his room.<br /> <br /> He sat on the sofa resting his head on the back of the sofa, lost in deep thoughts.<br /> <br /> "How come no one knew dad was battling colon cancer and what happened that night when he went to the music festival with his dad?"<br /> <br /> Jason tried to remember a few events from the night before. The program went well and the performances were great. Mr Haward gave Jason a bottle of water when Jason requested one of the guards to get him water. That was it. Jason doesn't recall anything after drinking the water.<br /> <br /> Jason searched his pocket for the wedding ring and took it out, looking at it carefully. He placed it back in his pocket. He didn't want anyone in the family to know about it until he had figured out who the lady was and how she ended up in his room. His phone rang, snapping him out of his thoughts. He checked the caller ID and answered.<br /> <br /> "Yes, speak," Jason commanded.<br /> <br /> "Sir, her name is Julia Harrison. She stays with her mother at Belle Glade, in a two-bedroom house. The house is occupied by just the two of them, she and her mother. Concerning her father, she never met him. She is a school bus driver, and that is how she earns money for her daily upkeep. Her mother is a dressmaker. Despite their living conditions, Julia likes to party with her two best friends, Matilda Hayford, whom she calls Tilly and Michael Hogan, at night clubs and even though she can't handle her liquor, she likes to drink," the caller informed Jason.<br /> <br /> "That is all I found out about her," the caller added.<br /> <br /> "Hmm," Jason said and disconnected the call when the caller had nothing more to say.<br /> <br /> "This girl is a nobody," Jason thought, " the only one who could probably tell him what happened is now gone and that is his father whom he was with the night."<br /> <br /> Later, Jason had dinner together with his family and he was surprised to see their mother, Mrs Haward, had the appetite to eat so much after crying from morning almost till afternoon, but he felt it was good she didn't starve herself.<br /> <br /> After dinner, Jason hung around for a while and returned to his apartment. Upon entering his apartment with two of his bodyguards, all the servants immediately became tense. The guards remained on the first floor as he went up to the next floor where he slept. He sat on the sofa and watched the news for a while before he decided to go to bed. In his bedroom, he opened his drawer by the bedside to pick up his phone charger but found two signed marriage certificates with his dad as the witness.<br /> <br /> "Wait, so his dad knew about the wedding? Did he organize it," Jason thought but again kicked against it.<br /> <br /> "According to his brother, Dad passed out upon reaching home. Something happened but it also doesn't make sense that someone attacked his father and got him, Jason, to marry a stranger," Jason continued in his thoughts while staring at the two certificates in his hand.<br /> <br /> He put them back and sat on the edge of the bed with his phone charger in hand.<br /> <br /> "Why would someone get him married like that, unless, maybe, someone is going to use the girl to get to him." Jason thought, "his information and access to everything," he thought,<br /> <br /> "Someone has planned something and it doesn't look good,"<br /> <br /> Jason smiled; he would file for a divorce after the funeral. He concluded his thought, put his phone on charge and went to take a shower. He climbed into bed and drifted off to sleep with a decision to start divorce proceedings.<br /> <br /> The day of the funeral came. Mr Haward was lying in the casket surrounded by lots of flowers. A lot of people attended the funeral as Mr Haward was a well-known person.<br /> <br /> Mr Haward's body was taken to the graveside and lowered into the grave. Jason collected some sand and threw it on the lowered casket, and so did all his siblings, including their mother, and the grave was covered. From the graveyard, they all went back to the family condo. Everyone spent the night at the condo.<br /> <br /> Jason left for his apartment the next day as the funeral was over and he needed to get some things done and also start the divorce process before anyone in the family found out about it.<br /> <br /> Jason went to court to initiate the process a couple of days later and was shocked by what he found out. There was a contract with a rule that the marriage could only go through a divorce after one and a half years.<br /> <br /> "What the hell?" Jason yelled.<br /> <br /> He enquired if something could be done and he was told nothing could be done about it. He angrily left the place for work annoyed. He entered his company and went straight to his cabin with instructions not to be disturbed.<br /> <br /> In his cabin, Jason tried to understand how the contract, marriage certificate, wedding rings and the lady he had slept with happened and why. He decided he would confront the lady. Maybe she will know something. She was not at the music festival, so how did they meet? He picked up his phone and dialled a number.<br /> <br /> "I want that Julia girl in my apartment at 6 pm today," Jason said and disconnected the call.<br /> <br /> For the rest of the day, he distracted himself with lots of work, meetings etc. Soon the day was over and he left the company for his apartment.<br /> <br /> The driver drove the car into the huge underground garage and parked. Jason stepped out of the car with four bodyguards. He was approached by another bodyguard.<br /> <br /> "Where is she?" Jason questioned.<br /> <br /> "Sir, she is tied up in the basement," replied the bodyguard, and Jason proceeded to the place.<br /> <br /> Jason asked his guards to leave him alone with her once inside. Julia looked a little bruised. Her hair is dishevelled. The side of her lip was bleeding.<br /> <br /> Despite her unkempt appearance, she was a very beautiful woman. She had gorgeous eyes and heavy and long brown hair. Aside from the bruises she had sustained because they manhandled her, you can tell she has very beautiful skin.<br /> <br /> Jason was very angry the morning he woke up next to her and hence did not have time to look at her. Even with her frown, she looked adorable, but he kept a cold, unwelcoming face.<br /> <br /> Julia had her hands and legs tied to the chair she was sitting on and a piece of cloth was used to tie her mouth.<br /> <br /> Jason pulled a chair and placed it not far away from her. He removed the cloth from her mouth and Julia began to scream so loudly Jason felt like his ear drums were going to explode.<br /> <br /> "Shut up," Jason said and a slap landed on the side of Julia's face, which turned red and swelled up immediately.<br /> <br /> Julia's head began to spin, she thought she might pass out anytime soon. She became terrified and started trembling in the seat.<br /> <br /> "Okay, tell me what were you doing before you woke up in my bed" Jason asked.<br /> <br /> Tears rolled down Julia's face as she spoke, her voice trembling "Please don't harm me, I don't remember anything." she replied honestly.<br /> <br /> "So, you don't recall anything at all?" Jason asked, "Answer me," he yelled at Julia and her body shook with fear.<br /> <br /> "I went out with my friends, believe me, that is all that I remember," Julia replied almost in tears.<br /> <br /> "Where did you go," Jason asked, sitting down.<br /> <br /> "To a nightclub in my area," Julia replied, still trembling.<br /> <br /> "Okay, that is fine, give me the names of your friends and their contact," Jason commanded, "Now" he yelled and Julia jumped in her seat.<br /> <br /> "Matilda," Julia said.<br /> <br /> "Matilda, what?" Jason asked.<br /> <br /> "Matilda Hayford and Michael Hogan," Julia said and quickly called out their contacts.<br /> <br /> Jason left Julia in the room. A few minutes later, a lady entered the room and untied Julia. She dressed Julia's wounds for her. After, the lady left Julia to walk free in the basement.<br /> <br /> Jason went up to the floor of his room after giving the names and contacts to his bodyguards to pick them up the next day.<br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Reading of The Will<br /> <br /> Jason went up to the 6th floor of his apartment after instructing his bodyguards to pick up the people whose names Julia had given for interrogation. He had given the entire fifth floor of the apartment to be occupied by his security team. Just so they can intercept anyone coming to the sixth floor. He has security guards on all the floors except for the seventh floor.<br /> <br /> On the first floor directly above where Julia was being kept, Tilly, Julia's friend, was sitting on a chair surrounded by three fearful guards. She trembled with fear as the first question was thrown at her.<br /> <br /> "I ...I... I fell sick a few minutes later, so I left the place and went home. Julia was still at the club when I left dancing. Nothing, fishy," Matilda replied, almost stammering.<br /> <br /> After a few more questions, Matilda was sent away and Michael was brought in by one of the guards with his hands tied behind his back. The guard pushed Michael onto the to sit down and his hands were untied. Jason began questioning him too.<br /> <br /> "I was with my male friends. Julia left us and I couldn't find her again. I didn't know where she went," Michael said.<br /> <br /> "You didn't see her leave to know which direction she went?" questioned Jason furiously.<br /> <br /> "Me and my friends were a little high," Michael confessed, lowering his head.<br /> <br /> Michael was sent away after getting a beating which brought no useful information out of him. Jason got nothing from them but Matilda went home untouched.<br /> <br /> Jason still had no idea what had happened that night and now he had to wait one and a half years before he could start divorce proceedings. This was crazy.<br /> <br /> He had his issues with women in general and the idea of staying with a woman for one and a half years was already working him up. He decided he need not stay under the same roof as Julia. Whatever the reason behind the marriage, he didn't care and would not go with the craziness.<br /> <br /> With this decision in mind, Jason went to the basement and opened the door. Julia looked a lot better; the bruises were not so evident on her again and the swell on her face was gone, but some red patch remained. After everything Jason did to Julia, something about her made him ask one of the servants to attend to her and ensure her bruises were treated.<br /> <br /> Even though Jason was unsure what to make of it, he wanted to see her face again. So, instead of asking his guards to release her, he went to the basement to do that himself.<br /> <br /> "How are you?" Jason asked, his voice sounding cold.<br /> <br /> Julia stared at Jason in silence and he frowned, his face becoming darker and his aura more terrifying.<br /> <br /> "When I ask a question, you answer," Jason said through gritted teeth.<br /> <br /> "Yes please," Julia replied quickly, trembling in fear.<br /> <br /> Jason started walking towards Julia and she moved back, seeing he was closing the gap between them. Julia's back hit the wall and she had nowhere else to go. Jason grabbed her hand, making her let out a cry. His gaze moved from her face to her hand to examine her bruises and how well they had healed. He noticed she was wearing the ring.<br /> <br /> "Why are you still wearing this?" Jason questioned, showing Julia's hand to her face.<br /> <br /> "Because it's the only nice thing I have," Julia replied in one breath, causing Jason to frown deeply.<br /> <br /> "I always wanted to have jewellery with diamonds. It's the only one I have with diamonds," Julia explained honestly, but her voice trembled and her head lowered.<br /> <br /> Standing in such proximity to her, he lifted her head and stared into her eyes and all he could see was fear. She was beyond terrified. Jason let go of Julia and said in a low, calm voice, "You are free to go."<br /> <br /> Jason moved away from Julia, giving her free access to the open door, surprised at his behaviour towards her. Jason had always kept women a distance away from himself, so why was he standing so close to this one?<br /> <br /> "Thank you," Julia said and ran out of the basement as fast as she could.<br /> <br /> Jason watched her run out of the basement like someone was after her. He was about to leave too, when he remembered his guards had abducted her so obviously, she didn't have the means to return home. It was quite a journey from where they were to her house.<br /> <br /> Walking out of the basement, Jason called one of the guards requesting they stop Julia from leaving the compound.<br /> <br /> The basement connects to the garage through a long hallway which feels more like a tunnel. Julia kept running and saw an open door. She ran towards it and was soon in the garage but was stopped by two bodyguards before she could proceed any further, causing her to scream out of fear, as she was not expecting that.<br /> <br /> "Please let me go," Julia pleaded, but the guards looked at her expressionless and some even laughed, enjoying her plight.<br /> <br /> The guard who had caught her held her by her wrist so tight that her little struggles could not set her free but rather ended up bruising her delicate skin.<br /> <br /> Jason soon entered the garage and the place went silent. He saw Julia being held by the bodyguard. His eyes shifted to her wrist, which had turned red, and he frowned deeply.<br /> <br /> "I asked you to stop her, not to bruise her, idiot," Jason said in a stern voice.<br /> <br /> Jason didn't understand why he seemed so concerned about her skin getting bruised, but that didn't stop him from treating her badly, leading to the same results. He concluded he didn't like anyone aside from himself, hurting her.<br /> <br /> "Put her in the car and come with me," Jason said to the guard.<br /> <br /> Julia was put in the back seat of the car with Jason. She sat in the car shaken all over.<br /> <br /> "I am only taking you home. Do you have money to go home?" Jason asked in a low voice and Julia shook her head no.<br /> <br /> Jason pulled Julia's hand and examined her bruise. Opening a compartment in the car, he gave her an ointment.<br /> <br /> "Here, apply this on it," Jason said in a low cold voice which sent chills down Julia's body.<br /> <br /> Julia felt she was going to freeze to death by him but she quickly took the ointment from him, opened it, applied some to her hand and gave it back.<br /> <br /> "Thank you," Julia said in a trembling voice and the corner of Jason's lips curved upwards briefly and he put his stern face back on.<br /> <br /> Jason took the ointment from Julia and put it back where he took it without responding to her nervous appreciation.<br /> <br /> They soon dropped Julia off and the car turned around to leave. Jason's phone buzzed and it was Mirenda.<br /> <br /> "Hi bro," Mirenda said.<br /> <br /> "Hello," Jason replied.<br /> <br /> "Mum asked me to call you and tell you to come home. It's important," Mirenda said.<br /> <br /> "What is it about?" Jason asked.<br /> <br /> "Some lawyers are in the house; I think it is about Dad's will," Mirenda replied.<br /> <br /> "Okay," Jason said and disconnected the call.<br /> <br /> Jason had forgotten all about that. His father was very rich and had achieved a lot in life. He was wondering what his father left for him. It would be a great addition to his current business.<br /> <br /> "Let's go to the family condo," Jason instructed.<br /> <br /> "Yes sir," replied the chauffeur.<br /> <br /> After driving for 45 minutes, they arrived at the family condo and Jason went inside the house.<br /> <br /> "Jason, sit down. Where have you been? We were waiting for you," Mrs Haward scolded Jason.<br /> <br /> "Sorry, Mum. I forgot about today," Jason said coldly.<br /> <br /> Even though Jason was apologizing, he sounded like he was talking back to his mother rather than apologizing.<br /> <br /> Once seated, the lawyer opened his briefcase and took out the sealed envelope that he showed to them.<br /> <br /> The lawyer opened it, pulled out the documents inside and began to read. In the will, Mr Haward had listed all the properties he owned, their locations and their worth. He also included properties he was in the process of acquiring because the funds were there to complete the process.<br /> <br /> "To my daughter Mirenda, I will give you the family condo. It's yours to do as you please. James, I have two businesses in Chicago. I have made you the CEO of both businesses. The rest of my properties, the Estates, the hotels, the rest of the companies and the money in the account, a total of 131 billion dollars, will be managed by the chosen heir. Any of my children can become the new heir of the Haward family under one condition. The person must be married. The chosen heir will be responsible for taking care of my beloved wife. If none of my children is married at the time this will is being read, my beloved wife will manage those properties until either of my children decides to settle down in marriage. Only then shall the properties mentioned be given to such," the lawyer read.<br /> <br /> Mrs Haward kept a straight face but smiled inwardly. She knew she would manage the property as neither of the three children is currently married.<br /> <br /> She had executed her plan well. She would transfer everything to her name and give it to her dearest son, James.<br /> <br /> She has always wanted a way to inherit the Haward fortune since her husband found out about her infidelity. Lucky for her, she overheard him when he was writing his will with the lawyer in his study and acted fast before he could make any changes based on what he had found out. That was when she got the medication which advanced his cancer stage quickly, leading to his death.<br /> <br /> The lawyer continued, "If none of the children is married, his wife will manage the property till one of them does," the lawyer repeated and lifted his gaze to look at all of them seated.<br /> <br /> "Which of you is Jason?" asked the lawyer.<br /> <br /> "I am," replied Jason, and they all turned to look at Jason, wondering why the lawyer asked him.<br /> <br /> "This is for you from your father," the lawyer said and handed him a white envelope.<br /> <br /> Jason took the envelope from the lawyer and saw that it was addressed to him. He opened it under the questioning gaze of his family and the lawyer waited for him to finish reading the content.<br /> <br /> Dear son,<br /> <br /> I know by now you are wondering how you got married. I want you to manage my properties for me. I did what I did which you don't understand now, but you will someday. The only way you can inherit that property is when you are married. This is why I got you married that night, so you can manage my properties for me. I trust only you.<br /> <br /> Signed<br /> <br /> dad<br /> <br /> "None of my children is currently married, lawyer," Mrs Haward spoke, breaking the silence in the room as she struggled to keep her joy down.<br /> <br /> "I am married, Mum," Jason spoke without thinking after reading the letter from his father.<br /> <br /> "What!" exclaimed Mrs Haward, looking at Jason questioningly while Jason fetched his ring from his pocket and placed it on his finger.<br /> <br /> "Married?" asked Mrs Haward angrily, and Jason's siblings were a bit surprised to hear Jason was married but more surprised about how angry their mother was.<br /> <br /> "To whom?" Mrs Haward questioned, getting up from her seat.<br /> <br /> "Julia Harrison," Jason replied, not giving it much thought.<br /> <br /> There was nothing he wouldn't do for his father, Mr Haward.<br /> <br /> "Who the hell is that and from which family?" Mrs Haward questioned angrily.<br /> <br /> "She is from Belle Glade," Jason replied and relaxed in his seat.<br /> <br /> "I don't believe you," Mrs Haward retorted, "You are just making it up so you become the heir," she added.<br /> <br /> Jason lifted his head to look at her, "Dad, arrange it for me," he replied.<br /> <br /> "I won't believe it till I see the woman," said Mrs Haward.<br /> <br /> "Sure, that is fine," Jason replied, pulled up his phone and called his bodyguard over.<br /> <br /> "Go bring Julia Haward," Jason said.<br /> <br /> The bodyguard nodded and stepped out.<br /> <br /> "You were not joking," Mrs Haward questioned.<br /> <br /> "No, I wasn't. I am married," replied Jason.<br /> <br /> Mrs Haward sat down and forced a smile, but inwardly she was crushed.<br /> <br /> "Alright, Jason, as your father wishes, you are the heir of the Haward family," the lawyer said.<br /> <br /> Jason replied with a "huh," still thinking about the content of the letter. What did his father mean, he would understand later. Was there something about this family he needed to know?<br /> <br /> "I am going to rest for a while. Do call me when Jason's wife arrives," Mrs Haward said with a smile, but the smile vanished from her face the moment her back was facing them as she walked away...<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> How will you feel about waking up in the morning with someone sleeping next to you who is not just anyone but your legally married partner yet with no memory of how that had happened in just a few hours of going out the previous day? <br /> <br /> This is the story of Jason Haward and Julia Harrison, two strangers trapped in a marriage they never planned. The quest to find out why led to the unfolding of a mystery which made them realize they are both living a lie. <br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4&	WATCH_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.com/52496322-fb_contact-e	108394237578957	Fiction books	https://facebook.com/100075615382269	52,573	1	991,401,332,480,646	2024-07-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Watch more	Fiction books	120212466868910608	fbweb.moboreader.com	NONE	video		https://fbweb.moboreader.com/52496322-fb_contact-eny1586_2-0621-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=432604739574735	2024-07-02 22:39	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449749161_407777748273762_687155389826185416_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IcNC30jpaDAQ7kNvgFfjNPe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDVFX-flMTCSN24Jj8Nem_VlPVHhsdbHOQkQjYGifBA8w&oe=669244D2	person_profile	Fiction books	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449702082_3744997732434245_337701455299369198_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dBgdpDEt5UwQ7kNvgGG_FSJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBvpCYWiMUiKrKkz8EuZ-wnFfg1ymrnIpPNEqIEr_GJ4g&oe=66924010	3	Fiction books	2024-07-05 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,915,462	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1915486}'	No	2024-07-08 20:08	active	1089	1170098964024915	Read more	Upon awakening, she realizes she has reincarnated as a useless girl madly in love with her husband. However, her husband despises her and wishes for her demise. With determination, she firmly divorces him, vowing to make those who hurt her pay the price!<br /> =====<br /> "Rachel, you fking bch. GO TO HELL!"<br /> On the king-size bed, the man's face was a mask of fury, his black eyes burning with hate. The veins stood out on his forehead and his arms as he wrung the woman's slender neck.<br /> The woman was still half-asleep, but she could feel something was wrong. She couldn't breathe!<br /> She groggily opened her eyes, seeing the man in front of her was strangling her neck tightly, choking the life out of her. <br /> <br /> On top of the pain she already felt, she could feel a terrible headache coming on. Memories that didn't belong to her started flooding her senses.<br /> <br /> She had been reborn, from Shelia Davis to Rachel Bennet.<br /> <br /> As Rachel Bennet's lungs started screaming for air, her survival instinct kicked in. She raised her hands to her throat, trying to fend off her attacker.<br /> <br /> But the man wouldn't budge. <br /> <br /> Bam!<br /> <br /> The door was thrown open and the butler rushed in. His face paled at the sight before him, but he didn't lose a minute. <br /> <br /> He hurried to the bed and grabbed the man's arm, shouting, "Mr. Sullivan! Mr. Sullivan! Please let go of her! You're killing her!"<br /> <br /> "She deserves to die!" The man had an unhinged look in his eyes and spit came out of his mouth along with his words.<br /> <br /> The butler knew that couldn't stop the man physically, so he knelt by the bed and started begging for Rachel's life. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, please! If you kill her, your grandma will roll over in her grave. She won't be able to rest in peace!"<br /> <br /> Grandma?<br /> <br /> Hearing the butler's words, Victor Sullivan loosened his grip slightly.<br /> <br /> Rachel grabbed the opportunity to escape his grasp and crawl away. Her back hit the headboard and she stayed there curled in a ball, looking at Victor with wide, fearful eyes.<br /> <br /> The butler saw the change in Victor's attitude as a sign to keep pushing. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, be patient! Today your divorce will become official. You will never see her again! Spare her life for her mother's sake. Her mother once saved your grandma, remember? Please calm down!"<br /> <br /> Victor seemed to see the reason behind his butler's words. He got out of bed, put on his pajamas in silence. When he was done, he turned around and spoke, in a voice cold as ice.<br /> <br /> "I'll tell Ivan to send the divorce papers here. Sign it and then get the hell out. I don't want to see your face ever again."<br /> <br /> With a final look filled with hatred, he left the room, followed by the butler.<br /> <br /> The door slammed behind him, the sound hurting Rachel's ears. She covered herself with the bedcovers, still in shock. Her face was deathly pale, her heart fluttering in her chest.<br /> <br /> The adrenaline coursing through her veins had dulled the pain until now. But when the worst had passed, Rachel felt that her entire body was sore. She hurt everywhere.<br /> <br /> Rachel couldn't find any women's clothes in the closet. It contained only men's shirts and black suits.<br /> <br /> She grabbed a shirt and a pair of suit pants and put them on. The pants were ridiculously large for her, dragging on the ground.<br /> <br /> Rachel slowly walked to the sofa and sat down. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes. <br /> <br /> After quietly sorting things out in her mind, she finally came to two conclusions.<br /> <br /> She really had been reborn.<br /> <br /> The one inhabiting this body was a worthless girl madly in love with Victor. Her mother had gotten sick and died a while ago and her father was a pathetic scumbag.<br /> <br /> There was a knock on the door.<br /> <br /> The sound startled Rachel out of her reverie. A cold voice came from the other side of the door. "May I come in?"<br /> <br /> She hastily rolled up the bottom of the pants and hurried to open the door. A tall and dull-looking man stood there, holding a stack of papers in his hand.<br /> <br /> "Ivan." Rachel quickly searched her memories and retrieved the man's name.<br /> <br /> His face expressionless, Ivan Chavez handed her the documents and a pen. "Mr. Sullivan asked me to see you out. As soon as you sign the divorce papers."<br /> <br /> Rachel glanced at the documents, recalling what the butler had said earlier. Today was the second wedding anniversary of Victor and Rachel, but from now on, it would also be the end of their marriage.<br /> <br /> Was the divorce agreement cooked up in less than an hour? Victor must really hate Rachel.<br /> <br /> She took the agreement and started turning pages, signing "Rachel Bennet" neatly wherever it was necessary. She was done in less than thirty seconds.<br /> <br /> "There you go," Rachel said, as she returned the papers to Ivan and clicked the pen.<br /> <br /> Ivan looked at her in astonishment, eyebrows raised. He didn't expect it to be so easy. When Victor asked him to bring over the agreement, he told Ivan that Rachel didn't want to sign it, so he might have to use force.<br /> <br /> "Don't you want to read it first?" Ivan said, still not reaching out to take the papers.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows and replied flatly, "No."<br /> <br /> "Aren't you curious about what you are getting out of this divorce?" Ivan was frowning now, looking more and more confused.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows while hitching up her pants. She flashed Ivan a smile. "There is no need to read it. I know that there are two possible outcomes. One is that I am in a world of debt and go bankrupt soon, and the other is that I have to leave this marriage without a penny. I am sure Victor put together a team of exceptional lawyers to work on the best option for him."<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes darkened. He took the divorce papers and said, "Mr. Sullivan just wants you to walk away without getting any of his assets."<br /> <br /> "Well, make sure you thank him on my behalf." Rachel really didn't give a shit about it at all. It was this body's former occupant that loved Victor, not her. She didn't even care if the man lived or died.<br /> <br /> She didn't want a violent man like him for a husband. A man that would strangle his own wife to death. She now had another chance to live and she intended to make the best of it.<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes fell on Rachel's neck.<br /> <br /> "Would you like me to call a doctor for you?"<br /> <br /> Rachel was at a loss for a moment. Then she remembered the bruises around her neck and raised her hand to touch them. The feeling of suffocation came back to her and she had to shake her head to get rid of it.<br /> <br /> "No, thanks. I'm fine. It's not that bad," she replied, shrugging.<br /> <br /> "Then please pack your things." Ivan's tone was back to normal: cold and businesslike.<br /> <br /> She nodded and left Victor's bedroom barefoot, still pulling up her pants. She had a long way to go to reach her own bedroom. Victor hated Rachel so much that he didn't even want to bump into her in the corridor, so her room was all the way to the other side of the huge house.<br /> <br /> It took her nearly two minutes to get there.<br /> <br /> Her bedroom had originally been a storage room, but soon after Rachel and Victor's wedding, Rachel moved in here. She pushed the door open and walked through the narrow doorway nimbly.<br /> <br /> The room was really small. It only contained a bed and a dressing table, the furniture was so close together that there was no room to walk around properly.<br /> <br /> Rachel didn't have much to pack. Except for her cosmetics strewn all over the dressing table and a few clothes, she didn't have much else. She changed into her own clothes and stuffed the rest of her things into a suitcase.<br /> <br /> "Okay, I'm all packed. I'm leaving now. I hope I will never see you again, Ivan! Goodbye!" Rachel said in a carefree, cool voice as she dragged her suitcase across the hall.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, where do you think you are going?" Suddenly, the elevator doors slid open, revealing a woman in a business suit. Her high heels clicked on the marble floor, the sound crisp and curt, matching her sharp voice perfectly.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Alice Gave Her A Hard Time<br /> Rachel stopped to look at the woman approaching her.<br /> <br /> "Alice?" Alice Jenkins was her half-sister, a veritable two-faced bch.<br /> <br /> As she stood in front of Rachel, Alice grinned. "My dear sister, are you moving out?"<br /> <br /> Rachel rolled her eyes at her, and put on a fake smile. "It's been so long since we last saw each other. Why do you still like asking dumb questions so much? "<br /> <br /> Her remark left Alice livid. But she soon suppressed her anger, changing into an innocent expression again.<br /> <br /> "I'm just trying to show you some concern. How can you think of me that way?"<br /> <br /> Concern?<br /> <br /> Tha was funny. She just wanted to mock her.<br /> <br /> With a face devoid of emotion, Ivan intervened in their conversation. He reminded Rachel, "Mrs. Sullivan, it's time for you to leave. Mr. Sullivan is about to come back."<br /> <br /> The corners of her mouth twitched. She pointed at Alice and said to Ivan, "It's not that I don't want to leave; it's just that there's a mad dog blocking my path. I'm afraid that she'll bite me."<br /> <br /> Ivan was rendered speechless.<br /> <br /> Alice began to shed crocodile tears. "Rachel, I know you're getting divorced today. I was really worried that you'll be sad, so I left my work early to come to see you. How... How could you say that to me? I'm your sister."<br /> <br /> "Shut up! I don't have a dog for a sister." Rachel quickly distanced herself from Alice, and turned to Ivan again. "Ivan, shall we?"<br /> <br /> His temples began to ache, and he failed to maintain his stern expression for a moment. Left with no other choice, he said to Alice, "Miss Jenkins, please excuse us."<br /> <br /> Alice bit her lower lip. Her eyes were fiery with rage at this moment, but they were covered by her bangs.<br /> <br /> "Ivan, an untrained dog cannot comprehend human language," Rachel said to taunt her.<br /> <br /> That remark made Alice fume with rage. She clenched her fists, and glared at Rachel.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing Alice restrain her anger, Rachel tilted her head a little, smiling to vex Alice even more.<br /> <br /> The arrogant smile on Rachel's face annoyed Alice.<br /> <br /> 'What the hell is going on? Rachel is usually timid, and she's always obedient and grateful to me. Why did her personality turn upside down?'<br /> <br /> "Miss Jenkins," Ivan called out; his voice held a hint of impatience.<br /> <br /> Alice pressed her lips, hiding her suspicions. "Ivan, I'm not implying that I don't want my sister to leave. It's just that Victor asked me to see how things are going here."<br /> <br /> Both Ivan and Rachel were surprised to hear that.<br /> <br /> "Victor knew that I was coming here, so he specifically told me to watch Rachel pack up and leave. He said that according to the divorce agreement, Rachel wasn't allowed to take anything that belongs to the Sullivan family. I'm just here to make sure she upholds the agreement." Alice looked at the suitcase beside Rachel.<br /> <br /> "So, Rachel, could you please open your suitcase? I need to check if you took anything that doesn't belong to you."<br /> <br /> Rachel frowned at that. "It only contains a few clothes. I didn't take anything that belongs to the Sullivans!"<br /> <br /> Alice grabbed the suitcase from her and said, "I'm afraid it's not up to you to decide. If you didn't take anything inappropriate with you, why are you so afraid of letting me see the contents of your suitcase?"<br /> <br /> After that, she laid the suitcase on the ground and opened it.<br /> <br /> Inside it, several clothes had been piled up in a mess. It seemed that Rachel really didn't take anything valuable with her.<br /> <br /> Alice gritted her teeth. She didn't expect that Rachel was telling the truth. Unwilling to let her go so easily, Alice rummaged through the clothes. It was as if she wasn't going to stop until she had found a piece of evidence that could prove Rachel had stolen something from the Sullivans.<br /> <br /> The only contents of the suitcase were Rachel's clothes and cosmetics, and yet Alice kept rummaging through the suitcase for over ten minutes.<br /> <br /> "Are you done checking?" Rachel glanced down at Alice.<br /> <br /> "I'm just following Victor's orders. It's better to check thoroughly," Alice replied softly.<br /> <br /> "Fine. Go ahead and check those clothes for as long as you want. I don't want them anymore." Rachel shook her head. The bruises on her body still hadn't healed yet. She really didn't want to waste any more time with Alice, and she didn't want to wait for Victor to come back and try to strangle her again.<br /> <br /> Now that she had said her piece, Rachel walked past Alice and towards the elevator and pushed the button. Ivan followed suit.<br /> <br /> Ding!<br /> <br /> Before long, the elevator arrived at the third floor. The sliding doors opened slowly. Just before Rachel could walk in, she suddenly felt a chill. The temperature around her dropped several degrees, making her shiver and stop in her tracks.<br /> <br /> The first thing she saw was a pair of shiny leather shoes. When she raised her head, she caught sight of Victor's aloof face.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan." Ivan was the first to react, bowing his head respectfully.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, it seems that you've forgotten what I told you this morning." There was a flash of warning in Victor's eyes, and he sounded ill-tempered.<br /> <br /> The second she saw him, Rachel thought of how Victor choked her this morning. She trembled with fear, wary of what he might do to her.<br /> <br /> Standing in attention, she said, "No, I remember."<br /> <br /> "Oh, you do? Then why the hell are you still here?" Victor asked, striding towards her.<br /> <br /> Rachel kept pacing backwards until her back was against the wall. She closed her eyes for a second and then braced herself to look into his eyes.<br /> <br /> "You should ask Alice. I was about to leave, but she appeared out of nowhere and delayed me. That's why I..."<br /> <br /> Rachel was half-way to finishing her explanation when Alice suddenly interrupted her.<br /> <br /> "How could you lie like that?" she asked with tearful eyes.<br /> <br /> "I'm not lying!" At this moment, Rachel was cursing Alice in her head. If it weren't for this woman, she would've left an hour ago, and she wouldn't have run into Victor.<br /> <br /> Damn it.<br /> <br /> As if she was about to break into tears, Alice said, "Victor, I didn't mean to delay Rachel's departure. I was just following your orders to check her luggage. I'm afraid that she'll steal your stuff. My sister revels in lying. I didn't expect that she'd lie again this time."<br /> <br /> Alice's words reminded Victor of everything that Rachel had done, making him look more sullen than usual. "Do you honestly think I won't try to kill you?"<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, he strangled Rachel with his hand, slamming her head against the wall. She didn't see that coming, but she managed to grab Victor's hand instinctively. The pain coming from the back of her head made her dizzy.<br /> <br /> "Vic... Victor!" Rachel called out with difficulty.<br /> <br /> "How dare you test my patience over and over?" said Victor.<br /> <br /> With every passing second, Rachel was losing her consciousness. She couldn't break free from Victor's grasp at all.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing the situation, Ivan decided to intervene. He hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Mr. Sullivan, if something happens to Mrs. Sullivan, those bastards in the board of directors will use that against you. If that happens, your plan of concentrating equity will be hampered."<br /> <br /> "Fk off!" Victor roared. His fingers that were gripping Rachel's neck turned pale because of how strong he was gripping her.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 I Will Haunt You Forever<br /> As much as he worried about Rachel, Ivan didn't dare to talk back to Victor again.<br /> <br /> She didn't want to die.<br /> <br /> She used the last of her strength to push Victor's hand away. Once she was able to catch her breath a little, she stared at him; her eyes turning red.<br /> <br /> "If I die here and now, then I will die as your wife; still a member of the Sullivans. Someday, when you die, you will be buried next to me, and I will haunt you beyond the afterlife!"<br /> <br /> Rachel said those words with difficulty; her face had turned red due to the suffocation. Gradually, Rachel had no strength to struggle. Little by little, she could feel her consciousness slipping.<br /> <br /> "Who do you think you are? You don't deserve to be buried in my family's mausoleum." Victor sounded indifferent. "If you die, I'll cremate your body and throw the ashes into a bin. A woman like you deserves to rest with the rubbish!"<br /> <br /> Rachel burst into laughter.<br /> <br /> "Why are you laughing?" Victor asked.<br /> <br /> "Even if you throw my ashes into a bin, it won't change the fact that I'm your legal wife, and I'm part of your family tree. You loathe me, don't you? Sorry, but you'll never get rid of me, even if I die!"<br /> <br /> Victor stared daggers at her as he strengthened his grip, lifting her in midair. Consequently, Rachel yelped in pain, and tears rolled down her cheeks.<br /> <br /> Just when she was hallucinating of the shameless couple in her previous life, Victor suddenly let go of her.<br /> <br /> Rachel fell to the ground. She felt like every bone in her body had been broken, and even the slightest movement made her groan in pain.<br /> <br /> "Ahem! Ahem!" She coughed violently and gasped for air, breathing with so much difficulty.<br /> <br /> Ivan glanced at Rachel indifferently and lowered his head. "Mr. Sullivan, it's all my fault. I didn't urge her to leave in time. I'm willing to suffer the consequences."<br /> <br /> Alice turned pale with fear as she watched Victor beat up Rachel. She got down on her knees and begged, "Victor, I... This is my fault! I didn't check Rachel's suitcase faster. That's why she had the opportunity to lie and buy time for herself."<br /> <br /> Rachel could feel her chest tightening as she coughed over and over.<br /> <br /> "I didn't take anything that belongs to you," she said in a hoarse voice.<br /> <br /> Victor took out some wet wipes to clean his hand that had touched Rachel's neck. Disgust was evident on his face.<br /> <br /> "You didn't take anything? You bought all your clothes using my money. How dare you say that you didn't take my stuff?"<br /> <br /> Rachel pursed her lips, unable to refute his logic. On her wedding day, Alice had burned all the clothes that Rachel had bought herself. Alice said that her clothes were too vulgar, and Victor probably wouldn't want to see her wearing them.<br /> <br /> "Take off her clothes and throw her out!" After saying that, Victor left along with Ivan without hesitation.<br /> <br /> Only when those two had left did Alice get up and walk towards Rachel. Her previous ostensibly tenderness had now disappeared.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, you married Victor and slept with him, but so what? In the end, he kicked you out! You wanted to make him fall in love with you, didn't you? That's never going to happen! Do you really think I asked you to wear heavy makeup and put on weight because Victor likes it? This is hilarious. I can't believe you actually fell for that. No man will ever like a fat and idiotic woman like you! I was messing with you. I just wanted to make him hate you even more!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's face turned ghastly pale. When she heard what Alice said, she didn't even look at her. She was indifferent to Alice's words and did not seem to hear her provocation.<br /> <br /> Seeing that Rachel wasn't responding, Alice gritted her teeth in anger. "Why are you looking at me like that?"<br /> <br /> "Huh! You're so pathetic." Rachel chuckled, trying to endure the pain.<br /> <br /> She was sure that she had suffered an internal injury. Just the act of talking was painful enough to make her feel like her organs were being twisted together.<br /> <br /> But she couldn't afford to show any sign of weakness. Otherwise, Alice would revel in torturing her. Evil was in that woman's nature.<br /> <br /> "What did you say?" Alice's eyes widened in surprise. When Rachel sneered at her, she was goaded.<br /> <br /> "I said," Rachel took a deep breath to alleviate the pain in her chest. "You are living a miserable, ridiculous life. You're the most pathetic person I've ever met! Being called a bastard must make you feel inferior, doesn't it? You've been trying your best to steal everything I had since we were kids, because I'm the Bennet family's legitimate daughter, and you're just a dirty little bastard. You are always unpresentable!"<br /> <br /> "Bch! Shut the fk up!" Alice screamed. It seemed that Rachel had struck a sore spot.<br /> <br /> Rachel grinned and continued, "These past two years, I trusted you, and yet you deceived me by taking advantage of my desire to draw Victor's attention. You fooled me into doing stupid things in front of him, so that he would loathe me. At first, he didn't feel anything for me, and then he began to hate me. And now, he's too disgusted to even lay eyes on me. You must be proud of this accomplishment, aren't you?"<br /> <br /> Alice clenched her fists, looking at Rachel with hatred. "Well, you should blame yourself for being so stupid!"<br /> <br /> "You're right. I was stupid," Rachel admitted. Right now, she felt ashamed for what she had done in the past two years.<br /> <br /> Despite being the daughter of a rich and powerful family, she had lived a pathetic life. How did she end up this way?<br /> <br /> "You have a clear estimation of yourself." The look on Alice's face made it seem like she was the winner between them.<br /> <br /> "I almost died, and that's enough to wake me up. I'm not stupid like you after all." Rachel wanted to make sure that she didn't have any broken bones, so she propped herself up using her hands. However, the pain was far too much for her to bear, so she fell down once more.<br /> <br /> Sweat dripped down her forehead as she groaned in pain; her hands, pressing against the hard floor. The veins on the back of her hands were bulging because she was exerting every ounce of strength she could muster.<br /> <br /> Alice's face turned grim.<br /> <br /> "Your end is near, Rachel. How dare you talk to me like that? Remember, you are no longer Victor's wife, and are therefore no longer part of the Sullivan family! His grandmother is dead now, so there's no one left to protect you! If you have a brain in that empty head of yours, you should kneel down and beg me to persuade our father to allow you to go home!"<br /> <br /> When Alice mentioned Victor's grandmother, a faraway look appeared on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Victor's grandmother was the one who chose Rachel to be his wife. Not long after she married into the Sullivan family, the old lady died of illness. His grandmother used to be Rachel's protector when she was still alive. During that time, Rachel lived a dignified life within the Sullivan family's residence.<br /> <br /> "Do you think you'll be able to marry Victor and share the Sullivan Group with him after I divorce him?"<br /> <br /> Upon hearing that, Alice stood proudly. "You were able to do it, so I probably can as well."<br /> <br /> "You can't," Rachel said in a weak, yet firm tone. "Why are you so confident that Victor will agree to marry you? Just because he's also an illegitimate child, you think you're good enough to be his wife?<br /> <br /> Your mother is a mistress; a home-wrecker! Unlike you, Victor was born before his father even got married. And his mother never destroyed the man's marriage later!<br /> <br /> With that being said, you will never deserve to be Victor's wife," said Rachel.<br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Will And Testament<br /> Alice's fingernails were digging into her palms, and her chest was heaving up and down due to the anger she was feeling.<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, she pulled Rachel up and slapped her face.<br /> <br /> The slap left a palm print on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Blood oozed from the corner of her mouth. Obviously, Alice didn't hold back when she slapped Rachel.<br /> <br /> Gnashing her teeth, Alice said to the servants, "You two, hold her up!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's vision was fading because of how hard she had gotten hit. The servants didn't dawdle, and they immediately followed Alice's command. Each of them held one of Rachel's arms to restrict her.<br /> <br /> With a murderous gaze, Alice clasped Rachel's chin, forcing her to raise her head.<br /> <br /> The imprint of an open hand was evident on the right side of her face; it was red and swollen. Once more, Alice raised her hand and snarled, "You're quite glib, aren't you? Say something again, I dare you!"<br /> <br /> "Alice, do you know what my life motto is?" Rachel spat out a mouthful of blood, trying her best to keep her eyes open. Her almond-shaped eyes looked as cold as ice. Her steely gaze was enough to intimidate people.<br /> <br /> "Ten eyes for an eye, and ten teeth for a single tooth," Rachel sneered. "As long as I live and breathe, I will hunt you down to the ends of the earth, and I will make you suffer for what you've done to me today!"<br /> <br /> For a moment, Alice was startled by her gaze, but she soon came to her senses.<br /> <br /> "Don't try to frighten me with that threat! Do you think a loser like you could scare me?" she said through gritted teeth.<br /> <br /> Right after she said that, Alice hit Rachel's face until it swelled up.<br /> <br /> Her anger was finally quenched when she got tired. She looked at Rachel dead in the eyes and said to the servants, "Didn't you hear Mr. Sullivan earlier?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, ma'am. He ordered us to remove her clothes and throw her out," a servant said, lowering her gaze.<br /> <br /> Alice massaged her sore wrist, smiling with satisfaction before she decided to strut away.<br /> <br /> Before long, the servants stripped Rachel down to her pelt, leaving only a set of silk underwear to cover her naked body.<br /> <br /> Unable to resist, Rachel closed her eyes and gave up struggling. She just let them do whatever they wanted to her.<br /> <br /> She knew very well that her survival was now the most important thing.<br /> <br /> The servants supported her on each side as they walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> After all, Rachel was once Victor's wife. Even though the servants loathed her, they still didn't want to bear witness to her embarrassment. Along the way, she didn't see anyone else besides the maids who were escorting her.<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, the butler knocked on the door of the study.<br /> <br /> "Come in," said Victor.<br /> <br /> The butler entered the room and said to him, "Mr. Sullivan, Mrs-Ms. Bennet had been thrown out as you've commanded."<br /> <br /> Victor was currently reading a contract, so he didn't raise his head when he replied, "Did she say anything?"<br /> <br /> "No," said the butler.<br /> <br /> With a snort, Victor thought of what Rachel had said earlier. His eyes brimmed with cruelty as he shut the folder and ordered, "Tell them to throw that bch as far as they can. Don't let that woman disgrace my doorstep."<br /> <br /> The butler was shocked to hear that. "Yes, sir," he answered reluctantly.<br /> <br /> Inside a cramped basement somewhere south of the city...<br /> <br /> "No!" Rachel suddenly woke up, sitting upright and screaming. She was breathing heavily and looking ahead in horror.<br /> <br /> Just then, someone pushed the door open from outside. Seeing that she was awake, the man set aside the medicine he had prepared and walked to the bed.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, you're finally awake," he said with concern.<br /> <br /> Rachel looked at him vigilantly, calming down at once. She tried to recall the man's name, because he looked familiar. However, she couldn't remember who he was at the moment.<br /> <br /> She looked down at her body and remembered that she had been thrown out of Victor's house; half-naked and almost dying. But now, she was still alive, sitting here in a tacky yet neat floral shirt with matching pants.<br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Rachel's voice was hoarse, and it seemed like she was wary of him.<br /> <br /> "We've met before, but you were still a child back then. It's normal that you don't remember me. I'm Andy Torres, your mother's private lawyer." The man smiled at her.<br /> <br /> 'Andy? Mom's lawyer?'<br /> <br /> Rachel remembered that her mother did have a lawyer. "Did you save me?"<br /> <br /> "I did. When I called you, a passerby answered the phone and said that you had fainted. But don't worry, I didn't see anything. The man who found you covered you with a coat, and then I carried you to my car and drove you back here," Andy explained.<br /> <br /> "Then, why am I wearing these clothes?"<br /> <br /> "Oh, I asked an old lady who lives next door to change it for you."<br /> <br /> Rachel breathed a sigh of relief, but she still frowned. "You mentioned that you called me. What for?"<br /> <br /> Her mother died when she was 13. Andy said that he was her mother's lawyer, but Rachel hadn't seen him for so many years. It was suspicious that he suddenly showed up this time.<br /> <br /> Andy got up and walked out of the room. Moments later, he returned with a document, and gave it to Rachel.<br /> <br /> "This is your mother's last will and testament," he said.<br /> <br /> "My mother's will?" Doubt filled Rachel's eyes. If she remembered correctly, her mother departed this world so suddenly that she didn't have the time to make a will.<br /> <br /> Otherwise, Rachel's useless father and his mistress wouldn't have been so reckless and high-profile.<br /> <br /> "Yes, she entrusted me to be the witness of her will when she was still alive. She told me to make this will public, and give it to you on your 24th birthday."<br /> <br /> Now that Andy had mentioned that, Rachel remembered that her birthday was the same day of her divorce with Victor.<br /> <br /> "It's clearly stated in this will that you will inherit all of your mother's assets, including fifteen percent of the Bennet Group's shares, and the villa she lived in before she died," Andy continued.<br /> <br /> Rachel turned to the last page and she saw the name "Elisa Bennet" on the bottom right corner of the paper.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Torres, how many days have I been unconscious?" asked Rachel.<br /> <br /> "Three days."<br /> <br /> She then put away the document and got out of bed. "In that case, they've been living comfortably for three more days. That's enough for them."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Rachel walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, where are you going?" asked Andy.<br /> <br /> Rachel stopped at the door, glancing at the will in her hand. She raised her eyebrows and smiled.<br /> <br /> "Where else? I'm going back home and kick out my father, his bch of a mistress, and their daughter!" With that, Rachel opened the door and strode out.<br /> <br /> Andy was taken aback by what she said for a moment. Somehow, he saw a glimpse of Elisa during her youth.<br /> <br /> As he watched Rachel walk away, Andy put on his suit jacket and followed her quickly.<br /> <br /> In the Bennet family's house, in the Riverside Villa District north of the city...<br /> <br /> Rachel and Andy stood in front of the door. They had been ringing the doorbell dozens of times, and yet nobody was answering.<br /> <br /> Annoyed by the constant ringing, finally the housekeeper trotted outside and shouted, "Stop it! Who is there? A debt collector or something? Stop ringing it! You're driving me crazy!"<br /> <br /> Right after she stopped talking, the housekeeper opened the side door and looked at the visitors with a frown. She was stunned to see who they were.<br /> <br /> "You... it's you!" The housekeeper's face turned pale, and a chill ran down her spine because of how intimidating Rachel looked.<br /> <br /> Rachel put on a sardonic smile. "Well, we do have a debt to collect."<br /> <br /> ......<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Her fiance and her best friend worked together and set her up. She lost everything and died in the street. However, she was reborn. <br /> <br /> The moment she opened her eyes, her husband was trying to strangle her. Luckily, she survived that. She signed the divorce agreement without hesitation and was ready for her miserable life. <br /> <br /> To her surprise, her mother in this life left her a great deal of money. She prepared to turn the tables and aveng herself...<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &18&	WATCH_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-x	108394237578957	Fiction books	https://facebook.com/100075615382269	52,573	1	1,150,357,742,911,155	2024-07-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Watch more	Fiction books	120212445850590608	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-xy-0720-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=432604739574735	2024-07-02 04:05	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449680098_1497307691179666_589064385887373539_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HDNHeRLF59MQ7kNvgF3p6M_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDKdaH-E2CuoaVYhqlK_jNHpKBfS4WgfzONFXmWfxamEA&oe=669251B9	person_profile	Fiction books	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449693078_1176223370241040_1147484642790800554_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UkDiNzAvrdYQ7kNvgF-UOcg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCkQsa7rsQTmh2D4INiucb5GJ7B31yIGFDRLNqbREVaTg&oe=66925073	3	Fiction books	2024-07-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
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1,915,440	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1915438}'	Yes	2024-07-08 20:08	active	1089	840993054132669	Read more	His father discovered his wife's affair and was subsequently killed by her. In grief, he brought a woman to spend the night, publicly admitting his marital status to inherit the estate, shocking everyone!<br /> =====<br /> Jason squinted and turned the other way, surprising to see a half-naked woman sleeping in his bed. <br /> He quickly got out of bed and realized he was not wearing any clothes and ran into the bathroom in confused.<br /> "Who is she? And why is she in his bed?" Jason thought and ran his hand through his black hair.<br /> His eyes fell on the gold ring on his finger. He quickly turned his hand and looked at it closely. He removed it from his finger and read the initials engraved inside it.<br /> <br /> "J.H"<br /> <br /> "What does that mean? Jason Haward?" Jason thought.<br /> <br /> "Looks like my initials, why do I have a wedding ring on my finger?" he thought, and remembered the lady.<br /> <br /> "Maybe she put it on my finger," he thought.<br /> <br /> Back in the bedroom, the lady, Julia, had just woken up but held her head in pain. She tried to recall what she did to give her such a terrible headache.<br /> <br /> Julia attempted to sit up but quickly realized she was naked. She covered herself with the sheet but felt some discomfort between her legs.<br /> <br /> "Where am I and what the hell happened?" she thought, realizing the strange environment.<br /> <br /> "O no, what did I do this time?" Julia stared in horror at the blood stain on the bed when she finally got out of bed.<br /> <br /> She had lost her innocence and yet had no memory of how that happened. How could she have lost her innocence like this? She wanted a memorable experience for her first time, yet she had no recollection of how this one happened or even how it felt. Just when she was lost in her thoughts, the door opened and a tall handsome man with blue eyes and black hair stepped into the room.<br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Jason asked in his deep voice.<br /> <br /> "I should be asking you that question. Who are you and how did I get here?" Julia questioned, moving backwards, away from the king-size bed.<br /> <br /> Jason's gaze shifted to Julia's hand, which was holding the sheet she had wrapped around herself with part of it sweeping the floor, and he saw she also had a ring on her finger. He walked towards her and she was startled by his sudden advancement towards her. She started moving backwards and he kept advancing towards her.<br /> <br /> "Don't get any closer or I will scream," Julia threatened.<br /> <br /> "Scream all you want, like someone is going to hear you."Jason retorted.<br /> <br /> Julia's back hit the window and he grabbed her hand roughly.<br /> <br /> "How did you get this?" Jason questioned, drawing Julia's attention to the ring on her finger.<br /> <br /> Julia looked at it puzzled and could not answer him. She had no idea how she got it but she loved the diamond stones around it because they were very beautiful.<br /> <br /> "Are you hearing me, woman?" Jason yelled at her, tightening his grip around her wrist and shaking her violently.<br /> <br /> Julia winced in pain and her face quickly became red.<br /> <br /> "I don't know" Julia replied, her voice trembling.<br /> <br /> "You don't know how you ended up in my bed?" Jason yelled at her.<br /> <br /> "I don't know," Julia cried and tears rolled down her cheeks.<br /> <br /> Jason threw her to the ground out of annoyance.<br /> <br /> "Get out of this room before I get back," he said and heard his phone ringing.<br /> <br /> Jason scanned the entire room following the sound and finally saw it lying on the bedside table. He walked back to the bedside and picked it up. It was a call from his brother.<br /> <br /> "Hello James," Jason said.<br /> <br /> "Hello Jason, what time are you coming over," James asked.<br /> <br /> "Coming over for what? I have some things to do at the office. So, whatever you want to say, spit it out quickly," Jason replied, annoyed.<br /> <br /> "Brother, it is Saturday. Dad came home sick last night; we sent him to the hospital. Mum called you, have you forgotten?" James reminded him.<br /> <br /> Jason stood frozen. He had no memory of that. He thought very hard but nothing.<br /> <br /> "Sure, I am coming over" Jason replied calmly.<br /> <br /> Jason ended the call still trying to recall things, but could not recall anything. He placed the phone back on the table but his eyes caught sight of the stain on the white sheet.<br /> <br /> "Is that blood?" Jason thought, knowing exactly what that meant.<br /> <br /> "Does it mean I am her first?" Jason thought, turning to look at the woman covering herself with the sheet still standing in front of the window.<br /> <br /> "F**k!" Jason exclaimed, understanding he had to take responsibility, but he was not ready for that.<br /> <br /> "What is your name" he questioned, but was met with silence.<br /> <br /> "Answer me dammit," Jason yelled, causing Julia to jump out of fright.<br /> <br /> "Julia Harrison," Julia replied, trembling.<br /> <br /> "Julia, get out of my house now," Jason yelled.<br /> <br /> "I don't know where my clothes are," Julia said in a trembling voice.<br /> <br /> "What size are you?" Jason asked in frustration.<br /> <br /> "What?" Julia replied , not understanding what he meant.<br /> <br /> "Your clothes size" Jason repeated.<br /> <br /> "8" Julia replied.<br /> <br /> Jason picked up his phone and dialled a number.<br /> <br /> "Bring me a female dress, size 8. You have 15 minutes," Jason said and disconnected the call.<br /> <br /> Jason entered the bathroom, leaving Julia in the bedroom.<br /> <br /> "Who the heck is that guy and why is he so mean?" Julia thought.<br /> <br /> She started looking around to see if she would find her clothes but there was nothing. A knock on the door startled her. She stood frozen, not sure what to do. The man came out of the bathroom.<br /> <br /> "What? You didn't hear the knock or you didn't know how to answer the doors?" Jason asked annoyed.<br /> <br /> He walked to the door and opened it. Collecting the dress bag from the young man at the door. He closed the door without a word. He took two steps and threw the bag at her.<br /> <br /> "Get dressed and get out before I come out," he said and went back to the bathroom.<br /> <br /> Julia opened it and put on the straight blue dress. She wasn't wearing any underwear and had no shoes on either. She quickly made her way towards the door and opened it. She stepped out and closed it shut by banging it, making a loud noise.<br /> <br /> There were lots of people working in the house all wearing uniforms. They all turned to look at her. She quickly turned white as a sheet.<br /> <br /> "I am sorry," Julia apologized and looked around her and ran towards the staircase.<br /> <br /> She descended the staircase but was not sure how to get out of the house. She saw a lady carrying a tray in one direction. The aroma told her it was food.<br /> <br /> "Please how do I get outside," Julia asked, standing on the last stairs, and the lady pointed her in the right direction.<br /> <br /> Julia quickly ran in the direction the lady had shown her and was soon out of the house after descending a never-ending long staircase. She looked behind her to see the huge eight-storey beautiful building she had just exited.<br /> <br /> She walked barefoot on the wet pavement, indicating it had rained the night before. She raised her hand to stop a cab and realized she didn't have any money and she was not familiar with the area either.<br /> <br /> "O God, I need to stop clubbing and drinking. How did I end up with that handsome ass, and here?" she thought as she looked around in frustration.<br /> <br /> Julia had no phone to call anyone. She continued walking down the street. She was not sure how long she had been walking when a Bugatti Chiron slowed down close to her.<br /> <br /> She ignored it and continued walking. The car honked at her so she stopped to see who it was.<br /> <br /> "Get in" came the deep familiar voice.<br /> <br /> It was the man who had yelled at her earlier in the Storey building.<br /> <br /> Julia ignored him and continued to walk. A man got down from the front in a black tuxedo wearing sunglasses. He walked up to Julia and grabbed her by the arm, pulling her towards the car.<br /> <br /> "Let go of me, I am going to scream," Julia threatened as she struggled to free herself.<br /> <br /> "Go ahead, like anyone will come," replied the gentleman as he continued to drag her towards the parked car.<br /> <br /> He opened the door to the back seat and threw Julia into the car. She fell onto the seat but quickly collected herself and pushed herself backwards till her back hit the car door. She was trembling as she was very terrified.<br /> <br /> "Listen, woman, when I say something, you listen and obey. Get it?" Jason said in a deep calm voice.<br /> <br /> His eyes were fixated on his phone as his fingers typed away. Julia pushed back further as if she wanted to go through the door and end up outside.<br /> <br /> "Where to?" Jason asked, still looking at his phone.<br /> <br /> "Belle glade," Julia replied, trembling.<br /> <br /> Jason shifted his gaze to look at her briefly and could see how terrified she was, but he was not bothered. He turned his gaze back to his phone and gave the instructions to the driver to drop Julia off at the destination she mentioned. Julia sat in the corner of the car with her back pressed against the back seat door, with her head lowered all through the journey till they got to her destination.<br /> <br /> Upon reaching her destination and the door unlocked Julia jumped out of the car.<br /> <br /> "Thank you" Julia managed to say and moved away quickly.<br /> <br /> She kept looking back occasionally and realized the car had left.<br /> <br /> "What a rude man," Julia thought as she continued walking down the street towards her home.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 We Lost Him<br /> "What a rude man," Julia thought as she continued walking down the street towards her home.<br /> <br /> She walked down the pavement and entered the porch of a house built with wood and painted white. She looked inside the house from the window, trying to sneak in.<br /> <br /> "Julia, come inside," came her mother's voice, "I know you are standing there.<br /> <br /> Julia squeezed her eyes and pursed her lips. She opened the front door, which was not locked, and entered the house.<br /> <br /> "Good morning, ma'am," Julia said with her hands behind her back.<br /> <br /> Her mother was sitting on the sofa reading a book with her eyeglasses on. She didn't lift her head to look at Julia standing almost behind her.<br /> <br /> "Where are you coming from?" Julia's mother asked, her eyes still fixated on the book she was reading.<br /> <br /> "Er...ma'am, I... I," Julia stammered, scratching the back of her neck.<br /> <br /> Her mother closed the book she was reading and, removing her glasses, turned halfway to look at Julia. She frowns and gets up to look at the dress Julia is wearing closely. She realized Julia was not wearing any shoes.<br /> <br /> She checked the label and gasped. She frowned, looking at Julia. Julia was puzzled and was wondering why her mother was examining the dress she was wearing.<br /> <br /> "Where did you get the money to buy this dress?" questioned her mother.<br /> <br /> "I ...I ... didn't buy it, it's a gift from a friend," Julia said quickly.<br /> <br /> "A gift from a friend. Which of your friends earns that much to get you this? Is it Tilly, your jobless friend or Michael the bread seller?" Julia's mother asked, with her hands on her waist and Julia was silent.<br /> <br /> She couldn't bring herself to talk about the events of the morning.<br /> <br /> "Where are the clothes you were wearing yesterday," Julia's mother questioned, "And why are you not in shoes?" she asked.<br /> <br /> "I don't know," Julia said honestly.<br /> <br /> "Are you sleeping with men now? The dress you are wearing is from a Louis Vuitton collection," Julia's mother pointed out.<br /> <br /> "No," Julia replied immediately, "I am not, and I won't do that. It is just that last night was a mess and ...and ...please mum, let's not talk about it," she said and ran off to her room.<br /> <br /> "What is she hiding?" Julia's mother thought, staring in the direction Julia had run through.<br /> <br /> After dropping her off, Jason was on his way to the hospital. He sat quietly at the back trying to recall the last thing he remembered. He had been invited to a musical program as the guest of honour and he went with his dad.<br /> <br /> He recalled the media taking pictures of him and his dad when they arrived before he was ushered through a private hall to the hall where the music festival was happening. That is all he remembers.<br /> <br /> "Sir, we are here," the driver called out to Jason, interrupting his thoughts. Jason rolled down the glass and looked outside.<br /> <br /> HCA Florida Westside Hospital, he read the sign. Yes, that is the name of the hospital his brother had sent to him. He got out of the car and walked towards the hospital accompanied by four formidable men.<br /> <br /> "Is that Jason Haward?" a passerby asked her friend she was walking with.<br /> <br /> "Yes, it is him. Is he coming to donate to this hospital?" the lady asked her friend, excited to see him.<br /> <br /> "Quick, take a picture of me with him in the background. Hurry" the lady shrieked.<br /> <br /> "Girl, unless you can make him stop walking, I don't know how that is possible. Those men walking with him will destroy your phone if you click any picture he didn't permit," the passerby pointed out to her friend before they walked away still admiring him from a distance.<br /> <br /> With Jason's presence around the hospital, a few crowds began to gather outside the hospital compound just to catch a glimpse of him.<br /> <br /> With his cold aura, he entered the hospital and was met by his brother. The medical staff, even though they were busy working, managed to steal some glances at him.<br /> <br /> "What happened to Papa?" James questioned, looking at Jason's face with worry.<br /> <br /> "What did the doctor say," Jason asked in a deep, calm voice.<br /> <br /> "Nothing yet, Mother is with him now," James announced and led Jason to the ward where his father was lying in bed, wearing a hospital gown, with his eyes closed and hooked to so many machines.<br /> <br /> Jason wanted to ask his father what had happened because he had been with him the previous night and didn't have any of his guards around except his father's guards. They would not say anything to him. His mother turned to look at him tear-eyed as soon as she heard the door open. Jason stood behind his mother, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.<br /> <br /> "He got home almost at midnight and fainted before he could even climb the staircase to the bedroom. He has been like this since we brought him here," Mrs Haward said and sniffled.<br /> <br /> Jason rubbed Mrs Haward's shoulders gently and she held Jason's hand. The doctor walked in seeing the entire family.<br /> <br /> He said, "I need to speak to one of you," the doctor said, and looked at them.<br /> <br /> James was the eldest, so he went with the doctor, leaving Jason with their mother. She held her husband's hand in hers, dropping kisses on the back of his hand in tears. Jason's phone buzzed, making him exit the ward. As soon as Mrs Haward was alone with her husband, she dropped his hand on the bed and leaned in closer to his ears.<br /> <br /> "You think you are smart; you want to kick me and my son out of the house and leave us with nothing. Now I am going to manage all your property. It is so amazing how you did everything just so I get nothing, but now I am getting everything." Mrs Haward said smiling and running her fingers through her husband's hair.<br /> <br /> "You know why I love the rules of your family so much. Unless that rude son of yours can find a woman to marry his rudeness this minute, I don't see how you win," Mrs Haward added, smiling, but quickly changed her demeanour and planted a kiss on his cheeks when he heard the door opening.<br /> <br /> "Mum, you can't keep crying like this, you need to be strong for him," James said as soon as he entered.<br /> <br /> "What did the doctor say," Mrs Haward questioned, her eyes red with tears.<br /> <br /> James looked at her, not sure whether to tell her everything, "He would be fine," he managed to say.<br /> <br /> "We just need to take good care of him," James added.<br /> <br /> They both turned to look at him when they heard him mention Jason's name weakly, but then his body started jerking violently and the machine's alarms started going off. James pressed the button for the doctor and rushed out to get one but was met by three medical practitioners at the entrance who entered and quickly tried to attend to him, sending them out of the room. They did everything they could but, in the end, they lost him. The nurse unplugged the machine and started taking it off him. The two doctors proceeded out of the ward and were met by Jason, James and their mother.<br /> <br /> "I am sorry," the doctor said and their mother froze in her spot.<br /> <br /> She was about to fall to the ground but James caught her.<br /> <br /> "What was wrong with him?" Jason asked James.<br /> <br /> "He was battling colon cancer which had advanced to its final stage. There was not much they could do for him," James said.<br /> <br /> "Colon cancer? How?" Jason questioned, surprised nobody knew about it.<br /> <br /> "Let me take Mum home and inform the rest of the family," James said.<br /> <br /> "I suppose Mirenda is back," Jason asked.<br /> <br /> "Yes, she arrived this morning. This is going to be a shock. She doesn't know anything. I will hold on telling Grandpa," James replied.<br /> <br /> "Leave grandpa to me," Jason said, and James left the hospital with their mother while Jason stayed behind and did the paperwork.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Father's Funeral<br /> "Leave grandpa to me," Jason said, and James left the hospital with their mother while Jason stayed behind and did the paperwork.<br /> <br /> James sat behind the wheel and drove out of the hospital compound with their mother, Mrs Haward, who would not stop crying about her dead husband, sitting next to him in the co-driver's seat. James just felt she needed to cry out as she appeared inconsolable.<br /> <br /> James remained silent with his eyes on the road as he drove back to the family condo. Jason finished the paperwork at the hospital and also headed for their family condo. Ten minutes after James arrived at the condo, Jason also drove in. Jason parked got out of the car, used the elevator, and went to the 12th floor.<br /> <br /> It was a huge floor with six bedrooms, two living rooms, and a well-designed balcony with a pool. The interior was shades of grey and white. They had some beautiful paintings hanging on the walls. Yes, they are a super-rich family.<br /> <br /> Jason entered the visitors' living room and was welcomed by his grandpa and they walked together to the family living room. They sat there for a while chatting.<br /> <br /> "Hello Grandpa," said Jason as soon as they sat down. He looked around for James or their mother but they were nowhere in sight.<br /> <br /> Jason's grandpa sat next to Jason, hugging Jason's shoulders. Jason smiled as he hugged the old man back. The old man sat down properly and Jason helped him support his back with one of the sofa pillows.<br /> <br /> "How is work?" Grandpa enquired after sitting down comfortably.<br /> <br /> "All good, I just have some project contracts to sign on Monday," Jason said, "Grandpa,"<br /> <br /> "Yes" replied Grandpa.<br /> <br /> "Something happened today," Jason began, trying to tell the old man about his father's death.<br /> <br /> "Your father left us," Grandpa completed Jason's statement, "Yeah I know, your mother came home crying," he replied and looked up while Jason stared at his side profile.<br /> <br /> "Your father was a good person; he was almost like a son to me. Sometimes I wish I had him as a son. He was hard-working, smart and very humble; you should pick his character," Grandpa said, turning to look at Jason, and Jason nodded with a cold expression.<br /> <br /> Yeah, his father, Mr Haward, was humble and where did that land him? People took advantage of him all the time and tried to fool him. Jason had already carved an image for himself and he would not drop it for his father's humble character. Today, people fear him and they do not stand and speak to him without trembling. Jason's father, Mr Haward, was merciful, but Jason was ruthless. The only thing Jason picked from his father was his hard-working nature and how smart he was.<br /> <br /> They spent some time together before Grandpa decided he was going to take his afternoon nap. Jason went upstairs after Grandpa had left for his room and found his elder brother and younger sister, both crowded around their mother who was still wiping tears from her eyes, in her room.<br /> <br /> Jaspn's phone buzzed and he stepped out of the room to answer it. He returned to the room a few minutes later.<br /> <br /> "Everything is ready, the burial is set for the day after tomorrow" Jason announced, and left them for his room.<br /> <br /> He sat on the sofa resting his head on the back of the sofa, lost in deep thoughts.<br /> <br /> "How come no one knew dad was battling colon cancer and what happened that night when he went to the music festival with his dad?"<br /> <br /> Jason tried to remember a few events from the night before. The program went well and the performances were great. Mr Haward gave Jason a bottle of water when Jason requested one of the guards to get him water. That was it. Jason doesn't recall anything after drinking the water.<br /> <br /> Jason searched his pocket for the wedding ring and took it out, looking at it carefully. He placed it back in his pocket. He didn't want anyone in the family to know about it until he had figured out who the lady was and how she ended up in his room. His phone rang, snapping him out of his thoughts. He checked the caller ID and answered.<br /> <br /> "Yes, speak," Jason commanded.<br /> <br /> "Sir, her name is Julia Harrison. She stays with her mother at Belle Glade, in a two-bedroom house. The house is occupied by just the two of them, she and her mother. Concerning her father, she never met him. She is a school bus driver, and that is how she earns money for her daily upkeep. Her mother is a dressmaker. Despite their living conditions, Julia likes to party with her two best friends, Matilda Hayford, whom she calls Tilly and Michael Hogan, at night clubs and even though she can't handle her liquor, she likes to drink," the caller informed Jason.<br /> <br /> "That is all I found out about her," the caller added.<br /> <br /> "Hmm," Jason said and disconnected the call when the caller had nothing more to say.<br /> <br /> "This girl is a nobody," Jason thought, " the only one who could probably tell him what happened is now gone and that is his father whom he was with the night."<br /> <br /> Later, Jason had dinner together with his family and he was surprised to see their mother, Mrs Haward, had the appetite to eat so much after crying from morning almost till afternoon, but he felt it was good she didn't starve herself.<br /> <br /> After dinner, Jason hung around for a while and returned to his apartment. Upon entering his apartment with two of his bodyguards, all the servants immediately became tense. The guards remained on the first floor as he went up to the next floor where he slept. He sat on the sofa and watched the news for a while before he decided to go to bed. In his bedroom, he opened his drawer by the bedside to pick up his phone charger but found two signed marriage certificates with his dad as the witness.<br /> <br /> "Wait, so his dad knew about the wedding? Did he organize it," Jason thought but again kicked against it.<br /> <br /> "According to his brother, Dad passed out upon reaching home. Something happened but it also doesn't make sense that someone attacked his father and got him, Jason, to marry a stranger," Jason continued in his thoughts while staring at the two certificates in his hand.<br /> <br /> He put them back and sat on the edge of the bed with his phone charger in hand.<br /> <br /> "Why would someone get him married like that, unless, maybe, someone is going to use the girl to get to him." Jason thought, "his information and access to everything," he thought,<br /> <br /> "Someone has planned something and it doesn't look good,"<br /> <br /> Jason smiled; he would file for a divorce after the funeral. He concluded his thought, put his phone on charge and went to take a shower. He climbed into bed and drifted off to sleep with a decision to start divorce proceedings.<br /> <br /> The day of the funeral came. Mr Haward was lying in the casket surrounded by lots of flowers. A lot of people attended the funeral as Mr Haward was a well-known person.<br /> <br /> Mr Haward's body was taken to the graveside and lowered into the grave. Jason collected some sand and threw it on the lowered casket, and so did all his siblings, including their mother, and the grave was covered. From the graveyard, they all went back to the family condo. Everyone spent the night at the condo.<br /> <br /> Jason left for his apartment the next day as the funeral was over and he needed to get some things done and also start the divorce process before anyone in the family found out about it.<br /> <br /> Jason went to court to initiate the process a couple of days later and was shocked by what he found out. There was a contract with a rule that the marriage could only go through a divorce after one and a half years.<br /> <br /> "What the hell?" Jason yelled.<br /> <br /> He enquired if something could be done and he was told nothing could be done about it. He angrily left the place for work annoyed. He entered his company and went straight to his cabin with instructions not to be disturbed.<br /> <br /> In his cabin, Jason tried to understand how the contract, marriage certificate, wedding rings and the lady he had slept with happened and why. He decided he would confront the lady. Maybe she will know something. She was not at the music festival, so how did they meet? He picked up his phone and dialled a number.<br /> <br /> "I want that Julia girl in my apartment at 6 pm today," Jason said and disconnected the call.<br /> <br /> For the rest of the day, he distracted himself with lots of work, meetings etc. Soon the day was over and he left the company for his apartment.<br /> <br /> The driver drove the car into the huge underground garage and parked. Jason stepped out of the car with four bodyguards. He was approached by another bodyguard.<br /> <br /> "Where is she?" Jason questioned.<br /> <br /> "Sir, she is tied up in the basement," replied the bodyguard, and Jason proceeded to the place.<br /> <br /> Jason asked his guards to leave him alone with her once inside. Julia looked a little bruised. Her hair is dishevelled. The side of her lip was bleeding.<br /> <br /> Despite her unkempt appearance, she was a very beautiful woman. She had gorgeous eyes and heavy and long brown hair. Aside from the bruises she had sustained because they manhandled her, you can tell she has very beautiful skin.<br /> <br /> Jason was very angry the morning he woke up next to her and hence did not have time to look at her. Even with her frown, she looked adorable, but he kept a cold, unwelcoming face.<br /> <br /> Julia had her hands and legs tied to the chair she was sitting on and a piece of cloth was used to tie her mouth.<br /> <br /> Jason pulled a chair and placed it not far away from her. He removed the cloth from her mouth and Julia began to scream so loudly Jason felt like his ear drums were going to explode.<br /> <br /> "Shut up," Jason said and a slap landed on the side of Julia's face, which turned red and swelled up immediately.<br /> <br /> Julia's head began to spin, she thought she might pass out anytime soon. She became terrified and started trembling in the seat.<br /> <br /> "Okay, tell me what were you doing before you woke up in my bed" Jason asked.<br /> <br /> Tears rolled down Julia's face as she spoke, her voice trembling "Please don't harm me, I don't remember anything." she replied honestly.<br /> <br /> "So, you don't recall anything at all?" Jason asked, "Answer me," he yelled at Julia and her body shook with fear.<br /> <br /> "I went out with my friends, believe me, that is all that I remember," Julia replied almost in tears.<br /> <br /> "Where did you go," Jason asked, sitting down.<br /> <br /> "To a nightclub in my area," Julia replied, still trembling.<br /> <br /> "Okay, that is fine, give me the names of your friends and their contact," Jason commanded, "Now" he yelled and Julia jumped in her seat.<br /> <br /> "Matilda," Julia said.<br /> <br /> "Matilda, what?" Jason asked.<br /> <br /> "Matilda Hayford and Michael Hogan," Julia said and quickly called out their contacts.<br /> <br /> Jason left Julia in the room. A few minutes later, a lady entered the room and untied Julia. She dressed Julia's wounds for her. After, the lady left Julia to walk free in the basement.<br /> <br /> Jason went up to the floor of his room after giving the names and contacts to his bodyguards to pick them up the next day.<br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Reading of The Will<br /> <br /> Jason went up to the 6th floor of his apartment after instructing his bodyguards to pick up the people whose names Julia had given for interrogation. He had given the entire fifth floor of the apartment to be occupied by his security team. Just so they can intercept anyone coming to the sixth floor. He has security guards on all the floors except for the seventh floor.<br /> <br /> On the first floor directly above where Julia was being kept, Tilly, Julia's friend, was sitting on a chair surrounded by three fearful guards. She trembled with fear as the first question was thrown at her.<br /> <br /> "I ...I... I fell sick a few minutes later, so I left the place and went home. Julia was still at the club when I left dancing. Nothing, fishy," Matilda replied, almost stammering.<br /> <br /> After a few more questions, Matilda was sent away and Michael was brought in by one of the guards with his hands tied behind his back. The guard pushed Michael onto the to sit down and his hands were untied. Jason began questioning him too.<br /> <br /> "I was with my male friends. Julia left us and I couldn't find her again. I didn't know where she went," Michael said.<br /> <br /> "You didn't see her leave to know which direction she went?" questioned Jason furiously.<br /> <br /> "Me and my friends were a little high," Michael confessed, lowering his head.<br /> <br /> Michael was sent away after getting a beating which brought no useful information out of him. Jason got nothing from them but Matilda went home untouched.<br /> <br /> Jason still had no idea what had happened that night and now he had to wait one and a half years before he could start divorce proceedings. This was crazy.<br /> <br /> He had his issues with women in general and the idea of staying with a woman for one and a half years was already working him up. He decided he need not stay under the same roof as Julia. Whatever the reason behind the marriage, he didn't care and would not go with the craziness.<br /> <br /> With this decision in mind, Jason went to the basement and opened the door. Julia looked a lot better; the bruises were not so evident on her again and the swell on her face was gone, but some red patch remained. After everything Jason did to Julia, something about her made him ask one of the servants to attend to her and ensure her bruises were treated.<br /> <br /> Even though Jason was unsure what to make of it, he wanted to see her face again. So, instead of asking his guards to release her, he went to the basement to do that himself.<br /> <br /> "How are you?" Jason asked, his voice sounding cold.<br /> <br /> Julia stared at Jason in silence and he frowned, his face becoming darker and his aura more terrifying.<br /> <br /> "When I ask a question, you answer," Jason said through gritted teeth.<br /> <br /> "Yes please," Julia replied quickly, trembling in fear.<br /> <br /> Jason started walking towards Julia and she moved back, seeing he was closing the gap between them. Julia's back hit the wall and she had nowhere else to go. Jason grabbed her hand, making her let out a cry. His gaze moved from her face to her hand to examine her bruises and how well they had healed. He noticed she was wearing the ring.<br /> <br /> "Why are you still wearing this?" Jason questioned, showing Julia's hand to her face.<br /> <br /> "Because it's the only nice thing I have," Julia replied in one breath, causing Jason to frown deeply.<br /> <br /> "I always wanted to have jewellery with diamonds. It's the only one I have with diamonds," Julia explained honestly, but her voice trembled and her head lowered.<br /> <br /> Standing in such proximity to her, he lifted her head and stared into her eyes and all he could see was fear. She was beyond terrified. Jason let go of Julia and said in a low, calm voice, "You are free to go."<br /> <br /> Jason moved away from Julia, giving her free access to the open door, surprised at his behaviour towards her. Jason had always kept women a distance away from himself, so why was he standing so close to this one?<br /> <br /> "Thank you," Julia said and ran out of the basement as fast as she could.<br /> <br /> Jason watched her run out of the basement like someone was after her. He was about to leave too, when he remembered his guards had abducted her so obviously, she didn't have the means to return home. It was quite a journey from where they were to her house.<br /> <br /> Walking out of the basement, Jason called one of the guards requesting they stop Julia from leaving the compound.<br /> <br /> The basement connects to the garage through a long hallway which feels more like a tunnel. Julia kept running and saw an open door. She ran towards it and was soon in the garage but was stopped by two bodyguards before she could proceed any further, causing her to scream out of fear, as she was not expecting that.<br /> <br /> "Please let me go," Julia pleaded, but the guards looked at her expressionless and some even laughed, enjoying her plight.<br /> <br /> The guard who had caught her held her by her wrist so tight that her little struggles could not set her free but rather ended up bruising her delicate skin.<br /> <br /> Jason soon entered the garage and the place went silent. He saw Julia being held by the bodyguard. His eyes shifted to her wrist, which had turned red, and he frowned deeply.<br /> <br /> "I asked you to stop her, not to bruise her, idiot," Jason said in a stern voice.<br /> <br /> Jason didn't understand why he seemed so concerned about her skin getting bruised, but that didn't stop him from treating her badly, leading to the same results. He concluded he didn't like anyone aside from himself, hurting her.<br /> <br /> "Put her in the car and come with me," Jason said to the guard.<br /> <br /> Julia was put in the back seat of the car with Jason. She sat in the car shaken all over.<br /> <br /> "I am only taking you home. Do you have money to go home?" Jason asked in a low voice and Julia shook her head no.<br /> <br /> Jason pulled Julia's hand and examined her bruise. Opening a compartment in the car, he gave her an ointment.<br /> <br /> "Here, apply this on it," Jason said in a low cold voice which sent chills down Julia's body.<br /> <br /> Julia felt she was going to freeze to death by him but she quickly took the ointment from him, opened it, applied some to her hand and gave it back.<br /> <br /> "Thank you," Julia said in a trembling voice and the corner of Jason's lips curved upwards briefly and he put his stern face back on.<br /> <br /> Jason took the ointment from Julia and put it back where he took it without responding to her nervous appreciation.<br /> <br /> They soon dropped Julia off and the car turned around to leave. Jason's phone buzzed and it was Mirenda.<br /> <br /> "Hi bro," Mirenda said.<br /> <br /> "Hello," Jason replied.<br /> <br /> "Mum asked me to call you and tell you to come home. It's important," Mirenda said.<br /> <br /> "What is it about?" Jason asked.<br /> <br /> "Some lawyers are in the house; I think it is about Dad's will," Mirenda replied.<br /> <br /> "Okay," Jason said and disconnected the call.<br /> <br /> Jason had forgotten all about that. His father was very rich and had achieved a lot in life. He was wondering what his father left for him. It would be a great addition to his current business.<br /> <br /> "Let's go to the family condo," Jason instructed.<br /> <br /> "Yes sir," replied the chauffeur.<br /> <br /> After driving for 45 minutes, they arrived at the family condo and Jason went inside the house.<br /> <br /> "Jason, sit down. Where have you been? We were waiting for you," Mrs Haward scolded Jason.<br /> <br /> "Sorry, Mum. I forgot about today," Jason said coldly.<br /> <br /> Even though Jason was apologizing, he sounded like he was talking back to his mother rather than apologizing.<br /> <br /> Once seated, the lawyer opened his briefcase and took out the sealed envelope that he showed to them.<br /> <br /> The lawyer opened it, pulled out the documents inside and began to read. In the will, Mr Haward had listed all the properties he owned, their locations and their worth. He also included properties he was in the process of acquiring because the funds were there to complete the process.<br /> <br /> "To my daughter Mirenda, I will give you the family condo. It's yours to do as you please. James, I have two businesses in Chicago. I have made you the CEO of both businesses. The rest of my properties, the Estates, the hotels, the rest of the companies and the money in the account, a total of 131 billion dollars, will be managed by the chosen heir. Any of my children can become the new heir of the Haward family under one condition. The person must be married. The chosen heir will be responsible for taking care of my beloved wife. If none of my children is married at the time this will is being read, my beloved wife will manage those properties until either of my children decides to settle down in marriage. Only then shall the properties mentioned be given to such," the lawyer read.<br /> <br /> Mrs Haward kept a straight face but smiled inwardly. She knew she would manage the property as neither of the three children is currently married.<br /> <br /> She had executed her plan well. She would transfer everything to her name and give it to her dearest son, James.<br /> <br /> She has always wanted a way to inherit the Haward fortune since her husband found out about her infidelity. Lucky for her, she overheard him when he was writing his will with the lawyer in his study and acted fast before he could make any changes based on what he had found out. That was when she got the medication which advanced his cancer stage quickly, leading to his death.<br /> <br /> The lawyer continued, "If none of the children is married, his wife will manage the property till one of them does," the lawyer repeated and lifted his gaze to look at all of them seated.<br /> <br /> "Which of you is Jason?" asked the lawyer.<br /> <br /> "I am," replied Jason, and they all turned to look at Jason, wondering why the lawyer asked him.<br /> <br /> "This is for you from your father," the lawyer said and handed him a white envelope.<br /> <br /> Jason took the envelope from the lawyer and saw that it was addressed to him. He opened it under the questioning gaze of his family and the lawyer waited for him to finish reading the content.<br /> <br /> Dear son,<br /> <br /> I know by now you are wondering how you got married. I want you to manage my properties for me. I did what I did which you don't understand now, but you will someday. The only way you can inherit that property is when you are married. This is why I got you married that night, so you can manage my properties for me. I trust only you.<br /> <br /> Signed<br /> <br /> dad<br /> <br /> "None of my children is currently married, lawyer," Mrs Haward spoke, breaking the silence in the room as she struggled to keep her joy down.<br /> <br /> "I am married, Mum," Jason spoke without thinking after reading the letter from his father.<br /> <br /> "What!" exclaimed Mrs Haward, looking at Jason questioningly while Jason fetched his ring from his pocket and placed it on his finger.<br /> <br /> "Married?" asked Mrs Haward angrily, and Jason's siblings were a bit surprised to hear Jason was married but more surprised about how angry their mother was.<br /> <br /> "To whom?" Mrs Haward questioned, getting up from her seat.<br /> <br /> "Julia Harrison," Jason replied, not giving it much thought.<br /> <br /> There was nothing he wouldn't do for his father, Mr Haward.<br /> <br /> "Who the hell is that and from which family?" Mrs Haward questioned angrily.<br /> <br /> "She is from Belle Glade," Jason replied and relaxed in his seat.<br /> <br /> "I don't believe you," Mrs Haward retorted, "You are just making it up so you become the heir," she added.<br /> <br /> Jason lifted his head to look at her, "Dad, arrange it for me," he replied.<br /> <br /> "I won't believe it till I see the woman," said Mrs Haward.<br /> <br /> "Sure, that is fine," Jason replied, pulled up his phone and called his bodyguard over.<br /> <br /> "Go bring Julia Haward," Jason said.<br /> <br /> The bodyguard nodded and stepped out.<br /> <br /> "You were not joking," Mrs Haward questioned.<br /> <br /> "No, I wasn't. I am married," replied Jason.<br /> <br /> Mrs Haward sat down and forced a smile, but inwardly she was crushed.<br /> <br /> "Alright, Jason, as your father wishes, you are the heir of the Haward family," the lawyer said.<br /> <br /> Jason replied with a "huh," still thinking about the content of the letter. What did his father mean, he would understand later. Was there something about this family he needed to know?<br /> <br /> "I am going to rest for a while. Do call me when Jason's wife arrives," Mrs Haward said with a smile, but the smile vanished from her face the moment her back was facing them as she walked away...<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> How will you feel about waking up in the morning with someone sleeping next to you who is not just anyone but your legally married partner yet with no memory of how that had happened in just a few hours of going out the previous day? <br /> <br /> This is the story of Jason Haward and Julia Harrison, two strangers trapped in a marriage they never planned. The quest to find out why led to the unfolding of a mystery which made them realize they are both living a lie. <br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &4&	WATCH_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.com/52496322-fb_contact-e	108394237578957	Fiction books	https://facebook.com/100075615382269	52,573	1	2,476,285,105,892,754	2024-07-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Watch more	Fiction books	120212466820270608	fbweb.moboreader.com	NONE	video		https://fbweb.moboreader.com/52496322-fb_contact-eny1586_2-0621-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=432604739574735	2024-07-02 22:37	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449773441_1207663557076492_2712166811567862105_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Y8HxU2Jc_7EQ7kNvgHM8U0V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYD4EkgIIMg203e5GV3LLEKa9odHMhg2oF_L_j-O864QjQ&oe=6692551D	person_profile	Fiction books	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449690102_1017511383311537_5197641464714369954_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Hp8wkog-DtwQ7kNvgEAH-xp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDbG9CX1qCxTsHcaCsQhc5brZfqT1dKmoRbmuClsKru3Q&oe=6692439F	3	Fiction books	2024-07-06 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,915,421	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1915408}'	No	2024-07-08 20:07	active	1089	487954833911814	Read next chapter	Upon awakening, she realizes she has reincarnated as a useless girl madly in love with her husband. However, her husband despises her and wishes for her demise. With determination, she firmly divorces him, vowing to make those who hurt her pay the price!<br /> =====<br /> "Rachel, you fking bch. GO TO HELL!"<br /> On the king-size bed, the man's face was a mask of fury, his black eyes burning with hate. The veins stood out on his forehead and his arms as he wrung the woman's slender neck.<br /> The woman was still half-asleep, but she could feel something was wrong. She couldn't breathe!<br /> She groggily opened her eyes, seeing the man in front of her was strangling her neck tightly, choking the life out of her. <br /> <br /> On top of the pain she already felt, she could feel a terrible headache coming on. Memories that didn't belong to her started flooding her senses.<br /> <br /> She had been reborn, from Shelia Davis to Rachel Bennet.<br /> <br /> As Rachel Bennet's lungs started screaming for air, her survival instinct kicked in. She raised her hands to her throat, trying to fend off her attacker.<br /> <br /> But the man wouldn't budge. <br /> <br /> Bam!<br /> <br /> The door was thrown open and the butler rushed in. His face paled at the sight before him, but he didn't lose a minute. <br /> <br /> He hurried to the bed and grabbed the man's arm, shouting, "Mr. Sullivan! Mr. Sullivan! Please let go of her! You're killing her!"<br /> <br /> "She deserves to die!" The man had an unhinged look in his eyes and spit came out of his mouth along with his words.<br /> <br /> The butler knew that couldn't stop the man physically, so he knelt by the bed and started begging for Rachel's life. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, please! If you kill her, your grandma will roll over in her grave. She won't be able to rest in peace!"<br /> <br /> Grandma?<br /> <br /> Hearing the butler's words, Victor Sullivan loosened his grip slightly.<br /> <br /> Rachel grabbed the opportunity to escape his grasp and crawl away. Her back hit the headboard and she stayed there curled in a ball, looking at Victor with wide, fearful eyes.<br /> <br /> The butler saw the change in Victor's attitude as a sign to keep pushing. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, be patient! Today your divorce will become official. You will never see her again! Spare her life for her mother's sake. Her mother once saved your grandma, remember? Please calm down!"<br /> <br /> Victor seemed to see the reason behind his butler's words. He got out of bed, put on his pajamas in silence. When he was done, he turned around and spoke, in a voice cold as ice.<br /> <br /> "I'll tell Ivan to send the divorce papers here. Sign it and then get the hell out. I don't want to see your face ever again."<br /> <br /> With a final look filled with hatred, he left the room, followed by the butler.<br /> <br /> The door slammed behind him, the sound hurting Rachel's ears. She covered herself with the bedcovers, still in shock. Her face was deathly pale, her heart fluttering in her chest.<br /> <br /> The adrenaline coursing through her veins had dulled the pain until now. But when the worst had passed, Rachel felt that her entire body was sore. She hurt everywhere.<br /> <br /> Rachel couldn't find any women's clothes in the closet. It contained only men's shirts and black suits.<br /> <br /> She grabbed a shirt and a pair of suit pants and put them on. The pants were ridiculously large for her, dragging on the ground.<br /> <br /> Rachel slowly walked to the sofa and sat down. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes. <br /> <br /> After quietly sorting things out in her mind, she finally came to two conclusions.<br /> <br /> She really had been reborn.<br /> <br /> The one inhabiting this body was a worthless girl madly in love with Victor. Her mother had gotten sick and died a while ago and her father was a pathetic scumbag.<br /> <br /> There was a knock on the door.<br /> <br /> The sound startled Rachel out of her reverie. A cold voice came from the other side of the door. "May I come in?"<br /> <br /> She hastily rolled up the bottom of the pants and hurried to open the door. A tall and dull-looking man stood there, holding a stack of papers in his hand.<br /> <br /> "Ivan." Rachel quickly searched her memories and retrieved the man's name.<br /> <br /> His face expressionless, Ivan Chavez handed her the documents and a pen. "Mr. Sullivan asked me to see you out. As soon as you sign the divorce papers."<br /> <br /> Rachel glanced at the documents, recalling what the butler had said earlier. Today was the second wedding anniversary of Victor and Rachel, but from now on, it would also be the end of their marriage.<br /> <br /> Was the divorce agreement cooked up in less than an hour? Victor must really hate Rachel.<br /> <br /> She took the agreement and started turning pages, signing "Rachel Bennet" neatly wherever it was necessary. She was done in less than thirty seconds.<br /> <br /> "There you go," Rachel said, as she returned the papers to Ivan and clicked the pen.<br /> <br /> Ivan looked at her in astonishment, eyebrows raised. He didn't expect it to be so easy. When Victor asked him to bring over the agreement, he told Ivan that Rachel didn't want to sign it, so he might have to use force.<br /> <br /> "Don't you want to read it first?" Ivan said, still not reaching out to take the papers.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows and replied flatly, "No."<br /> <br /> "Aren't you curious about what you are getting out of this divorce?" Ivan was frowning now, looking more and more confused.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows while hitching up her pants. She flashed Ivan a smile. "There is no need to read it. I know that there are two possible outcomes. One is that I am in a world of debt and go bankrupt soon, and the other is that I have to leave this marriage without a penny. I am sure Victor put together a team of exceptional lawyers to work on the best option for him."<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes darkened. He took the divorce papers and said, "Mr. Sullivan just wants you to walk away without getting any of his assets."<br /> <br /> "Well, make sure you thank him on my behalf." Rachel really didn't give a shit about it at all. It was this body's former occupant that loved Victor, not her. She didn't even care if the man lived or died.<br /> <br /> She didn't want a violent man like him for a husband. A man that would strangle his own wife to death. She now had another chance to live and she intended to make the best of it.<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes fell on Rachel's neck.<br /> <br /> "Would you like me to call a doctor for you?"<br /> <br /> Rachel was at a loss for a moment. Then she remembered the bruises around her neck and raised her hand to touch them. The feeling of suffocation came back to her and she had to shake her head to get rid of it.<br /> <br /> "No, thanks. I'm fine. It's not that bad," she replied, shrugging.<br /> <br /> "Then please pack your things." Ivan's tone was back to normal: cold and businesslike.<br /> <br /> She nodded and left Victor's bedroom barefoot, still pulling up her pants. She had a long way to go to reach her own bedroom. Victor hated Rachel so much that he didn't even want to bump into her in the corridor, so her room was all the way to the other side of the huge house.<br /> <br /> It took her nearly two minutes to get there.<br /> <br /> Her bedroom had originally been a storage room, but soon after Rachel and Victor's wedding, Rachel moved in here. She pushed the door open and walked through the narrow doorway nimbly.<br /> <br /> The room was really small. It only contained a bed and a dressing table, the furniture was so close together that there was no room to walk around properly.<br /> <br /> Rachel didn't have much to pack. Except for her cosmetics strewn all over the dressing table and a few clothes, she didn't have much else. She changed into her own clothes and stuffed the rest of her things into a suitcase.<br /> <br /> "Okay, I'm all packed. I'm leaving now. I hope I will never see you again, Ivan! Goodbye!" Rachel said in a carefree, cool voice as she dragged her suitcase across the hall.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, where do you think you are going?" Suddenly, the elevator doors slid open, revealing a woman in a business suit. Her high heels clicked on the marble floor, the sound crisp and curt, matching her sharp voice perfectly.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Alice Gave Her A Hard Time<br /> Rachel stopped to look at the woman approaching her.<br /> <br /> "Alice?" Alice Jenkins was her half-sister, a veritable two-faced bch.<br /> <br /> As she stood in front of Rachel, Alice grinned. "My dear sister, are you moving out?"<br /> <br /> Rachel rolled her eyes at her, and put on a fake smile. "It's been so long since we last saw each other. Why do you still like asking dumb questions so much? "<br /> <br /> Her remark left Alice livid. But she soon suppressed her anger, changing into an innocent expression again.<br /> <br /> "I'm just trying to show you some concern. How can you think of me that way?"<br /> <br /> Concern?<br /> <br /> Tha was funny. She just wanted to mock her.<br /> <br /> With a face devoid of emotion, Ivan intervened in their conversation. He reminded Rachel, "Mrs. Sullivan, it's time for you to leave. Mr. Sullivan is about to come back."<br /> <br /> The corners of her mouth twitched. She pointed at Alice and said to Ivan, "It's not that I don't want to leave; it's just that there's a mad dog blocking my path. I'm afraid that she'll bite me."<br /> <br /> Ivan was rendered speechless.<br /> <br /> Alice began to shed crocodile tears. "Rachel, I know you're getting divorced today. I was really worried that you'll be sad, so I left my work early to come to see you. How... How could you say that to me? I'm your sister."<br /> <br /> "Shut up! I don't have a dog for a sister." Rachel quickly distanced herself from Alice, and turned to Ivan again. "Ivan, shall we?"<br /> <br /> His temples began to ache, and he failed to maintain his stern expression for a moment. Left with no other choice, he said to Alice, "Miss Jenkins, please excuse us."<br /> <br /> Alice bit her lower lip. Her eyes were fiery with rage at this moment, but they were covered by her bangs.<br /> <br /> "Ivan, an untrained dog cannot comprehend human language," Rachel said to taunt her.<br /> <br /> That remark made Alice fume with rage. She clenched her fists, and glared at Rachel.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing Alice restrain her anger, Rachel tilted her head a little, smiling to vex Alice even more.<br /> <br /> The arrogant smile on Rachel's face annoyed Alice.<br /> <br /> 'What the hell is going on? Rachel is usually timid, and she's always obedient and grateful to me. Why did her personality turn upside down?'<br /> <br /> "Miss Jenkins," Ivan called out; his voice held a hint of impatience.<br /> <br /> Alice pressed her lips, hiding her suspicions. "Ivan, I'm not implying that I don't want my sister to leave. It's just that Victor asked me to see how things are going here."<br /> <br /> Both Ivan and Rachel were surprised to hear that.<br /> <br /> "Victor knew that I was coming here, so he specifically told me to watch Rachel pack up and leave. He said that according to the divorce agreement, Rachel wasn't allowed to take anything that belongs to the Sullivan family. I'm just here to make sure she upholds the agreement." Alice looked at the suitcase beside Rachel.<br /> <br /> "So, Rachel, could you please open your suitcase? I need to check if you took anything that doesn't belong to you."<br /> <br /> Rachel frowned at that. "It only contains a few clothes. I didn't take anything that belongs to the Sullivans!"<br /> <br /> Alice grabbed the suitcase from her and said, "I'm afraid it's not up to you to decide. If you didn't take anything inappropriate with you, why are you so afraid of letting me see the contents of your suitcase?"<br /> <br /> After that, she laid the suitcase on the ground and opened it.<br /> <br /> Inside it, several clothes had been piled up in a mess. It seemed that Rachel really didn't take anything valuable with her.<br /> <br /> Alice gritted her teeth. She didn't expect that Rachel was telling the truth. Unwilling to let her go so easily, Alice rummaged through the clothes. It was as if she wasn't going to stop until she had found a piece of evidence that could prove Rachel had stolen something from the Sullivans.<br /> <br /> The only contents of the suitcase were Rachel's clothes and cosmetics, and yet Alice kept rummaging through the suitcase for over ten minutes.<br /> <br /> "Are you done checking?" Rachel glanced down at Alice.<br /> <br /> "I'm just following Victor's orders. It's better to check thoroughly," Alice replied softly.<br /> <br /> "Fine. Go ahead and check those clothes for as long as you want. I don't want them anymore." Rachel shook her head. The bruises on her body still hadn't healed yet. She really didn't want to waste any more time with Alice, and she didn't want to wait for Victor to come back and try to strangle her again.<br /> <br /> Now that she had said her piece, Rachel walked past Alice and towards the elevator and pushed the button. Ivan followed suit.<br /> <br /> Ding!<br /> <br /> Before long, the elevator arrived at the third floor. The sliding doors opened slowly. Just before Rachel could walk in, she suddenly felt a chill. The temperature around her dropped several degrees, making her shiver and stop in her tracks.<br /> <br /> The first thing she saw was a pair of shiny leather shoes. When she raised her head, she caught sight of Victor's aloof face.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan." Ivan was the first to react, bowing his head respectfully.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, it seems that you've forgotten what I told you this morning." There was a flash of warning in Victor's eyes, and he sounded ill-tempered.<br /> <br /> The second she saw him, Rachel thought of how Victor choked her this morning. She trembled with fear, wary of what he might do to her.<br /> <br /> Standing in attention, she said, "No, I remember."<br /> <br /> "Oh, you do? Then why the hell are you still here?" Victor asked, striding towards her.<br /> <br /> Rachel kept pacing backwards until her back was against the wall. She closed her eyes for a second and then braced herself to look into his eyes.<br /> <br /> "You should ask Alice. I was about to leave, but she appeared out of nowhere and delayed me. That's why I..."<br /> <br /> Rachel was half-way to finishing her explanation when Alice suddenly interrupted her.<br /> <br /> "How could you lie like that?" she asked with tearful eyes.<br /> <br /> "I'm not lying!" At this moment, Rachel was cursing Alice in her head. If it weren't for this woman, she would've left an hour ago, and she wouldn't have run into Victor.<br /> <br /> Damn it.<br /> <br /> As if she was about to break into tears, Alice said, "Victor, I didn't mean to delay Rachel's departure. I was just following your orders to check her luggage. I'm afraid that she'll steal your stuff. My sister revels in lying. I didn't expect that she'd lie again this time."<br /> <br /> Alice's words reminded Victor of everything that Rachel had done, making him look more sullen than usual. "Do you honestly think I won't try to kill you?"<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, he strangled Rachel with his hand, slamming her head against the wall. She didn't see that coming, but she managed to grab Victor's hand instinctively. The pain coming from the back of her head made her dizzy.<br /> <br /> "Vic... Victor!" Rachel called out with difficulty.<br /> <br /> "How dare you test my patience over and over?" said Victor.<br /> <br /> With every passing second, Rachel was losing her consciousness. She couldn't break free from Victor's grasp at all.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing the situation, Ivan decided to intervene. He hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Mr. Sullivan, if something happens to Mrs. Sullivan, those bastards in the board of directors will use that against you. If that happens, your plan of concentrating equity will be hampered."<br /> <br /> "Fk off!" Victor roared. His fingers that were gripping Rachel's neck turned pale because of how strong he was gripping her.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 I Will Haunt You Forever<br /> As much as he worried about Rachel, Ivan didn't dare to talk back to Victor again.<br /> <br /> She didn't want to die.<br /> <br /> She used the last of her strength to push Victor's hand away. Once she was able to catch her breath a little, she stared at him; her eyes turning red.<br /> <br /> "If I die here and now, then I will die as your wife; still a member of the Sullivans. Someday, when you die, you will be buried next to me, and I will haunt you beyond the afterlife!"<br /> <br /> Rachel said those words with difficulty; her face had turned red due to the suffocation. Gradually, Rachel had no strength to struggle. Little by little, she could feel her consciousness slipping.<br /> <br /> "Who do you think you are? You don't deserve to be buried in my family's mausoleum." Victor sounded indifferent. "If you die, I'll cremate your body and throw the ashes into a bin. A woman like you deserves to rest with the rubbish!"<br /> <br /> Rachel burst into laughter.<br /> <br /> "Why are you laughing?" Victor asked.<br /> <br /> "Even if you throw my ashes into a bin, it won't change the fact that I'm your legal wife, and I'm part of your family tree. You loathe me, don't you? Sorry, but you'll never get rid of me, even if I die!"<br /> <br /> Victor stared daggers at her as he strengthened his grip, lifting her in midair. Consequently, Rachel yelped in pain, and tears rolled down her cheeks.<br /> <br /> Just when she was hallucinating of the shameless couple in her previous life, Victor suddenly let go of her.<br /> <br /> Rachel fell to the ground. She felt like every bone in her body had been broken, and even the slightest movement made her groan in pain.<br /> <br /> "Ahem! Ahem!" She coughed violently and gasped for air, breathing with so much difficulty.<br /> <br /> Ivan glanced at Rachel indifferently and lowered his head. "Mr. Sullivan, it's all my fault. I didn't urge her to leave in time. I'm willing to suffer the consequences."<br /> <br /> Alice turned pale with fear as she watched Victor beat up Rachel. She got down on her knees and begged, "Victor, I... This is my fault! I didn't check Rachel's suitcase faster. That's why she had the opportunity to lie and buy time for herself."<br /> <br /> Rachel could feel her chest tightening as she coughed over and over.<br /> <br /> "I didn't take anything that belongs to you," she said in a hoarse voice.<br /> <br /> Victor took out some wet wipes to clean his hand that had touched Rachel's neck. Disgust was evident on his face.<br /> <br /> "You didn't take anything? You bought all your clothes using my money. How dare you say that you didn't take my stuff?"<br /> <br /> Rachel pursed her lips, unable to refute his logic. On her wedding day, Alice had burned all the clothes that Rachel had bought herself. Alice said that her clothes were too vulgar, and Victor probably wouldn't want to see her wearing them.<br /> <br /> "Take off her clothes and throw her out!" After saying that, Victor left along with Ivan without hesitation.<br /> <br /> Only when those two had left did Alice get up and walk towards Rachel. Her previous ostensibly tenderness had now disappeared.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, you married Victor and slept with him, but so what? In the end, he kicked you out! You wanted to make him fall in love with you, didn't you? That's never going to happen! Do you really think I asked you to wear heavy makeup and put on weight because Victor likes it? This is hilarious. I can't believe you actually fell for that. No man will ever like a fat and idiotic woman like you! I was messing with you. I just wanted to make him hate you even more!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's face turned ghastly pale. When she heard what Alice said, she didn't even look at her. She was indifferent to Alice's words and did not seem to hear her provocation.<br /> <br /> Seeing that Rachel wasn't responding, Alice gritted her teeth in anger. "Why are you looking at me like that?"<br /> <br /> "Huh! You're so pathetic." Rachel chuckled, trying to endure the pain.<br /> <br /> She was sure that she had suffered an internal injury. Just the act of talking was painful enough to make her feel like her organs were being twisted together.<br /> <br /> But she couldn't afford to show any sign of weakness. Otherwise, Alice would revel in torturing her. Evil was in that woman's nature.<br /> <br /> "What did you say?" Alice's eyes widened in surprise. When Rachel sneered at her, she was goaded.<br /> <br /> "I said," Rachel took a deep breath to alleviate the pain in her chest. "You are living a miserable, ridiculous life. You're the most pathetic person I've ever met! Being called a bastard must make you feel inferior, doesn't it? You've been trying your best to steal everything I had since we were kids, because I'm the Bennet family's legitimate daughter, and you're just a dirty little bastard. You are always unpresentable!"<br /> <br /> "Bch! Shut the fk up!" Alice screamed. It seemed that Rachel had struck a sore spot.<br /> <br /> Rachel grinned and continued, "These past two years, I trusted you, and yet you deceived me by taking advantage of my desire to draw Victor's attention. You fooled me into doing stupid things in front of him, so that he would loathe me. At first, he didn't feel anything for me, and then he began to hate me. And now, he's too disgusted to even lay eyes on me. You must be proud of this accomplishment, aren't you?"<br /> <br /> Alice clenched her fists, looking at Rachel with hatred. "Well, you should blame yourself for being so stupid!"<br /> <br /> "You're right. I was stupid," Rachel admitted. Right now, she felt ashamed for what she had done in the past two years.<br /> <br /> Despite being the daughter of a rich and powerful family, she had lived a pathetic life. How did she end up this way?<br /> <br /> "You have a clear estimation of yourself." The look on Alice's face made it seem like she was the winner between them.<br /> <br /> "I almost died, and that's enough to wake me up. I'm not stupid like you after all." Rachel wanted to make sure that she didn't have any broken bones, so she propped herself up using her hands. However, the pain was far too much for her to bear, so she fell down once more.<br /> <br /> Sweat dripped down her forehead as she groaned in pain; her hands, pressing against the hard floor. The veins on the back of her hands were bulging because she was exerting every ounce of strength she could muster.<br /> <br /> Alice's face turned grim.<br /> <br /> "Your end is near, Rachel. How dare you talk to me like that? Remember, you are no longer Victor's wife, and are therefore no longer part of the Sullivan family! His grandmother is dead now, so there's no one left to protect you! If you have a brain in that empty head of yours, you should kneel down and beg me to persuade our father to allow you to go home!"<br /> <br /> When Alice mentioned Victor's grandmother, a faraway look appeared on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Victor's grandmother was the one who chose Rachel to be his wife. Not long after she married into the Sullivan family, the old lady died of illness. His grandmother used to be Rachel's protector when she was still alive. During that time, Rachel lived a dignified life within the Sullivan family's residence.<br /> <br /> "Do you think you'll be able to marry Victor and share the Sullivan Group with him after I divorce him?"<br /> <br /> Upon hearing that, Alice stood proudly. "You were able to do it, so I probably can as well."<br /> <br /> "You can't," Rachel said in a weak, yet firm tone. "Why are you so confident that Victor will agree to marry you? Just because he's also an illegitimate child, you think you're good enough to be his wife?<br /> <br /> Your mother is a mistress; a home-wrecker! Unlike you, Victor was born before his father even got married. And his mother never destroyed the man's marriage later!<br /> <br /> With that being said, you will never deserve to be Victor's wife," said Rachel.<br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Will And Testament<br /> Alice's fingernails were digging into her palms, and her chest was heaving up and down due to the anger she was feeling.<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, she pulled Rachel up and slapped her face.<br /> <br /> The slap left a palm print on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Blood oozed from the corner of her mouth. Obviously, Alice didn't hold back when she slapped Rachel.<br /> <br /> Gnashing her teeth, Alice said to the servants, "You two, hold her up!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's vision was fading because of how hard she had gotten hit. The servants didn't dawdle, and they immediately followed Alice's command. Each of them held one of Rachel's arms to restrict her.<br /> <br /> With a murderous gaze, Alice clasped Rachel's chin, forcing her to raise her head.<br /> <br /> The imprint of an open hand was evident on the right side of her face; it was red and swollen. Once more, Alice raised her hand and snarled, "You're quite glib, aren't you? Say something again, I dare you!"<br /> <br /> "Alice, do you know what my life motto is?" Rachel spat out a mouthful of blood, trying her best to keep her eyes open. Her almond-shaped eyes looked as cold as ice. Her steely gaze was enough to intimidate people.<br /> <br /> "Ten eyes for an eye, and ten teeth for a single tooth," Rachel sneered. "As long as I live and breathe, I will hunt you down to the ends of the earth, and I will make you suffer for what you've done to me today!"<br /> <br /> For a moment, Alice was startled by her gaze, but she soon came to her senses.<br /> <br /> "Don't try to frighten me with that threat! Do you think a loser like you could scare me?" she said through gritted teeth.<br /> <br /> Right after she said that, Alice hit Rachel's face until it swelled up.<br /> <br /> Her anger was finally quenched when she got tired. She looked at Rachel dead in the eyes and said to the servants, "Didn't you hear Mr. Sullivan earlier?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, ma'am. He ordered us to remove her clothes and throw her out," a servant said, lowering her gaze.<br /> <br /> Alice massaged her sore wrist, smiling with satisfaction before she decided to strut away.<br /> <br /> Before long, the servants stripped Rachel down to her pelt, leaving only a set of silk underwear to cover her naked body.<br /> <br /> Unable to resist, Rachel closed her eyes and gave up struggling. She just let them do whatever they wanted to her.<br /> <br /> She knew very well that her survival was now the most important thing.<br /> <br /> The servants supported her on each side as they walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> After all, Rachel was once Victor's wife. Even though the servants loathed her, they still didn't want to bear witness to her embarrassment. Along the way, she didn't see anyone else besides the maids who were escorting her.<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, the butler knocked on the door of the study.<br /> <br /> "Come in," said Victor.<br /> <br /> The butler entered the room and said to him, "Mr. Sullivan, Mrs-Ms. Bennet had been thrown out as you've commanded."<br /> <br /> Victor was currently reading a contract, so he didn't raise his head when he replied, "Did she say anything?"<br /> <br /> "No," said the butler.<br /> <br /> With a snort, Victor thought of what Rachel had said earlier. His eyes brimmed with cruelty as he shut the folder and ordered, "Tell them to throw that bch as far as they can. Don't let that woman disgrace my doorstep."<br /> <br /> The butler was shocked to hear that. "Yes, sir," he answered reluctantly.<br /> <br /> Inside a cramped basement somewhere south of the city...<br /> <br /> "No!" Rachel suddenly woke up, sitting upright and screaming. She was breathing heavily and looking ahead in horror.<br /> <br /> Just then, someone pushed the door open from outside. Seeing that she was awake, the man set aside the medicine he had prepared and walked to the bed.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, you're finally awake," he said with concern.<br /> <br /> Rachel looked at him vigilantly, calming down at once. She tried to recall the man's name, because he looked familiar. However, she couldn't remember who he was at the moment.<br /> <br /> She looked down at her body and remembered that she had been thrown out of Victor's house; half-naked and almost dying. But now, she was still alive, sitting here in a tacky yet neat floral shirt with matching pants.<br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Rachel's voice was hoarse, and it seemed like she was wary of him.<br /> <br /> "We've met before, but you were still a child back then. It's normal that you don't remember me. I'm Andy Torres, your mother's private lawyer." The man smiled at her.<br /> <br /> 'Andy? Mom's lawyer?'<br /> <br /> Rachel remembered that her mother did have a lawyer. "Did you save me?"<br /> <br /> "I did. When I called you, a passerby answered the phone and said that you had fainted. But don't worry, I didn't see anything. The man who found you covered you with a coat, and then I carried you to my car and drove you back here," Andy explained.<br /> <br /> "Then, why am I wearing these clothes?"<br /> <br /> "Oh, I asked an old lady who lives next door to change it for you."<br /> <br /> Rachel breathed a sigh of relief, but she still frowned. "You mentioned that you called me. What for?"<br /> <br /> Her mother died when she was 13. Andy said that he was her mother's lawyer, but Rachel hadn't seen him for so many years. It was suspicious that he suddenly showed up this time.<br /> <br /> Andy got up and walked out of the room. Moments later, he returned with a document, and gave it to Rachel.<br /> <br /> "This is your mother's last will and testament," he said.<br /> <br /> "My mother's will?" Doubt filled Rachel's eyes. If she remembered correctly, her mother departed this world so suddenly that she didn't have the time to make a will.<br /> <br /> Otherwise, Rachel's useless father and his mistress wouldn't have been so reckless and high-profile.<br /> <br /> "Yes, she entrusted me to be the witness of her will when she was still alive. She told me to make this will public, and give it to you on your 24th birthday."<br /> <br /> Now that Andy had mentioned that, Rachel remembered that her birthday was the same day of her divorce with Victor.<br /> <br /> "It's clearly stated in this will that you will inherit all of your mother's assets, including fifteen percent of the Bennet Group's shares, and the villa she lived in before she died," Andy continued.<br /> <br /> Rachel turned to the last page and she saw the name "Elisa Bennet" on the bottom right corner of the paper.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Torres, how many days have I been unconscious?" asked Rachel.<br /> <br /> "Three days."<br /> <br /> She then put away the document and got out of bed. "In that case, they've been living comfortably for three more days. That's enough for them."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Rachel walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, where are you going?" asked Andy.<br /> <br /> Rachel stopped at the door, glancing at the will in her hand. She raised her eyebrows and smiled.<br /> <br /> "Where else? I'm going back home and kick out my father, his bch of a mistress, and their daughter!" With that, Rachel opened the door and strode out.<br /> <br /> Andy was taken aback by what she said for a moment. Somehow, he saw a glimpse of Elisa during her youth.<br /> <br /> As he watched Rachel walk away, Andy put on his suit jacket and followed her quickly.<br /> <br /> In the Bennet family's house, in the Riverside Villa District north of the city...<br /> <br /> Rachel and Andy stood in front of the door. They had been ringing the doorbell dozens of times, and yet nobody was answering.<br /> <br /> Annoyed by the constant ringing, finally the housekeeper trotted outside and shouted, "Stop it! Who is there? A debt collector or something? Stop ringing it! You're driving me crazy!"<br /> <br /> Right after she stopped talking, the housekeeper opened the side door and looked at the visitors with a frown. She was stunned to see who they were.<br /> <br /> "You... it's you!" The housekeeper's face turned pale, and a chill ran down her spine because of how intimidating Rachel looked.<br /> <br /> Rachel put on a sardonic smile. "Well, we do have a debt to collect."<br /> <br /> ......<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Her fiance and her best friend worked together and set her up. She lost everything and died in the street. However, she was reborn. <br /> <br /> The moment she opened her eyes, her husband was trying to strangle her. Luckily, she survived that. She signed the divorce agreement without hesitation and was ready for her miserable life. <br /> <br /> To her surprise, her mother in this life left her a great deal of money. She prepared to turn the tables and aveng herself...<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &18&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-x	108394237578957	Fiction books	https://facebook.com/100075615382269	52,573	2	1,155,606,598,894,646	2024-07-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Fiction books	120211333054940416	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-xy-0720-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1955749504828214	2024-07-02 04:04	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449528938_972173744456133_4469067110866535644_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GdH3s-PpkYEQ7kNvgFyBJrK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDUU8vgVu-Pov2_NQzRGMoLC5DPQrSOpmWdUKq14-KXKA&oe=66925AF5	person_profile	Fiction books	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449444966_360071360453311_3395166386642928620_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a8_HSXVmYIwQ7kNvgGTkBnj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDXpA64XtUzkqA36GfiaM8rdjBJb83o7SEx6eMzrTK-xA&oe=66923984	3	Fiction books	2024-07-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,915,423	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1915421}'	Yes	2024-07-08 20:07	active	1089	494818373201191	Read next chapter	Upon awakening, she realizes she has reincarnated as a useless girl madly in love with her husband. However, her husband despises her and wishes for her demise. With determination, she firmly divorces him, vowing to make those who hurt her pay the price!<br /> =====<br /> "Rachel, you fking bch. GO TO HELL!"<br /> On the king-size bed, the man's face was a mask of fury, his black eyes burning with hate. The veins stood out on his forehead and his arms as he wrung the woman's slender neck.<br /> The woman was still half-asleep, but she could feel something was wrong. She couldn't breathe!<br /> She groggily opened her eyes, seeing the man in front of her was strangling her neck tightly, choking the life out of her. <br /> <br /> On top of the pain she already felt, she could feel a terrible headache coming on. Memories that didn't belong to her started flooding her senses.<br /> <br /> She had been reborn, from Shelia Davis to Rachel Bennet.<br /> <br /> As Rachel Bennet's lungs started screaming for air, her survival instinct kicked in. She raised her hands to her throat, trying to fend off her attacker.<br /> <br /> But the man wouldn't budge. <br /> <br /> Bam!<br /> <br /> The door was thrown open and the butler rushed in. His face paled at the sight before him, but he didn't lose a minute. <br /> <br /> He hurried to the bed and grabbed the man's arm, shouting, "Mr. Sullivan! Mr. Sullivan! Please let go of her! You're killing her!"<br /> <br /> "She deserves to die!" The man had an unhinged look in his eyes and spit came out of his mouth along with his words.<br /> <br /> The butler knew that couldn't stop the man physically, so he knelt by the bed and started begging for Rachel's life. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, please! If you kill her, your grandma will roll over in her grave. She won't be able to rest in peace!"<br /> <br /> Grandma?<br /> <br /> Hearing the butler's words, Victor Sullivan loosened his grip slightly.<br /> <br /> Rachel grabbed the opportunity to escape his grasp and crawl away. Her back hit the headboard and she stayed there curled in a ball, looking at Victor with wide, fearful eyes.<br /> <br /> The butler saw the change in Victor's attitude as a sign to keep pushing. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, be patient! Today your divorce will become official. You will never see her again! Spare her life for her mother's sake. Her mother once saved your grandma, remember? Please calm down!"<br /> <br /> Victor seemed to see the reason behind his butler's words. He got out of bed, put on his pajamas in silence. When he was done, he turned around and spoke, in a voice cold as ice.<br /> <br /> "I'll tell Ivan to send the divorce papers here. Sign it and then get the hell out. I don't want to see your face ever again."<br /> <br /> With a final look filled with hatred, he left the room, followed by the butler.<br /> <br /> The door slammed behind him, the sound hurting Rachel's ears. She covered herself with the bedcovers, still in shock. Her face was deathly pale, her heart fluttering in her chest.<br /> <br /> The adrenaline coursing through her veins had dulled the pain until now. But when the worst had passed, Rachel felt that her entire body was sore. She hurt everywhere.<br /> <br /> Rachel couldn't find any women's clothes in the closet. It contained only men's shirts and black suits.<br /> <br /> She grabbed a shirt and a pair of suit pants and put them on. The pants were ridiculously large for her, dragging on the ground.<br /> <br /> Rachel slowly walked to the sofa and sat down. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes. <br /> <br /> After quietly sorting things out in her mind, she finally came to two conclusions.<br /> <br /> She really had been reborn.<br /> <br /> The one inhabiting this body was a worthless girl madly in love with Victor. Her mother had gotten sick and died a while ago and her father was a pathetic scumbag.<br /> <br /> There was a knock on the door.<br /> <br /> The sound startled Rachel out of her reverie. A cold voice came from the other side of the door. "May I come in?"<br /> <br /> She hastily rolled up the bottom of the pants and hurried to open the door. A tall and dull-looking man stood there, holding a stack of papers in his hand.<br /> <br /> "Ivan." Rachel quickly searched her memories and retrieved the man's name.<br /> <br /> His face expressionless, Ivan Chavez handed her the documents and a pen. "Mr. Sullivan asked me to see you out. As soon as you sign the divorce papers."<br /> <br /> Rachel glanced at the documents, recalling what the butler had said earlier. Today was the second wedding anniversary of Victor and Rachel, but from now on, it would also be the end of their marriage.<br /> <br /> Was the divorce agreement cooked up in less than an hour? Victor must really hate Rachel.<br /> <br /> She took the agreement and started turning pages, signing "Rachel Bennet" neatly wherever it was necessary. She was done in less than thirty seconds.<br /> <br /> "There you go," Rachel said, as she returned the papers to Ivan and clicked the pen.<br /> <br /> Ivan looked at her in astonishment, eyebrows raised. He didn't expect it to be so easy. When Victor asked him to bring over the agreement, he told Ivan that Rachel didn't want to sign it, so he might have to use force.<br /> <br /> "Don't you want to read it first?" Ivan said, still not reaching out to take the papers.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows and replied flatly, "No."<br /> <br /> "Aren't you curious about what you are getting out of this divorce?" Ivan was frowning now, looking more and more confused.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows while hitching up her pants. She flashed Ivan a smile. "There is no need to read it. I know that there are two possible outcomes. One is that I am in a world of debt and go bankrupt soon, and the other is that I have to leave this marriage without a penny. I am sure Victor put together a team of exceptional lawyers to work on the best option for him."<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes darkened. He took the divorce papers and said, "Mr. Sullivan just wants you to walk away without getting any of his assets."<br /> <br /> "Well, make sure you thank him on my behalf." Rachel really didn't give a shit about it at all. It was this body's former occupant that loved Victor, not her. She didn't even care if the man lived or died.<br /> <br /> She didn't want a violent man like him for a husband. A man that would strangle his own wife to death. She now had another chance to live and she intended to make the best of it.<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes fell on Rachel's neck.<br /> <br /> "Would you like me to call a doctor for you?"<br /> <br /> Rachel was at a loss for a moment. Then she remembered the bruises around her neck and raised her hand to touch them. The feeling of suffocation came back to her and she had to shake her head to get rid of it.<br /> <br /> "No, thanks. I'm fine. It's not that bad," she replied, shrugging.<br /> <br /> "Then please pack your things." Ivan's tone was back to normal: cold and businesslike.<br /> <br /> She nodded and left Victor's bedroom barefoot, still pulling up her pants. She had a long way to go to reach her own bedroom. Victor hated Rachel so much that he didn't even want to bump into her in the corridor, so her room was all the way to the other side of the huge house.<br /> <br /> It took her nearly two minutes to get there.<br /> <br /> Her bedroom had originally been a storage room, but soon after Rachel and Victor's wedding, Rachel moved in here. She pushed the door open and walked through the narrow doorway nimbly.<br /> <br /> The room was really small. It only contained a bed and a dressing table, the furniture was so close together that there was no room to walk around properly.<br /> <br /> Rachel didn't have much to pack. Except for her cosmetics strewn all over the dressing table and a few clothes, she didn't have much else. She changed into her own clothes and stuffed the rest of her things into a suitcase.<br /> <br /> "Okay, I'm all packed. I'm leaving now. I hope I will never see you again, Ivan! Goodbye!" Rachel said in a carefree, cool voice as she dragged her suitcase across the hall.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, where do you think you are going?" Suddenly, the elevator doors slid open, revealing a woman in a business suit. Her high heels clicked on the marble floor, the sound crisp and curt, matching her sharp voice perfectly.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Alice Gave Her A Hard Time<br /> Rachel stopped to look at the woman approaching her.<br /> <br /> "Alice?" Alice Jenkins was her half-sister, a veritable two-faced bch.<br /> <br /> As she stood in front of Rachel, Alice grinned. "My dear sister, are you moving out?"<br /> <br /> Rachel rolled her eyes at her, and put on a fake smile. "It's been so long since we last saw each other. Why do you still like asking dumb questions so much? "<br /> <br /> Her remark left Alice livid. But she soon suppressed her anger, changing into an innocent expression again.<br /> <br /> "I'm just trying to show you some concern. How can you think of me that way?"<br /> <br /> Concern?<br /> <br /> Tha was funny. She just wanted to mock her.<br /> <br /> With a face devoid of emotion, Ivan intervened in their conversation. He reminded Rachel, "Mrs. Sullivan, it's time for you to leave. Mr. Sullivan is about to come back."<br /> <br /> The corners of her mouth twitched. She pointed at Alice and said to Ivan, "It's not that I don't want to leave; it's just that there's a mad dog blocking my path. I'm afraid that she'll bite me."<br /> <br /> Ivan was rendered speechless.<br /> <br /> Alice began to shed crocodile tears. "Rachel, I know you're getting divorced today. I was really worried that you'll be sad, so I left my work early to come to see you. How... How could you say that to me? I'm your sister."<br /> <br /> "Shut up! I don't have a dog for a sister." Rachel quickly distanced herself from Alice, and turned to Ivan again. "Ivan, shall we?"<br /> <br /> His temples began to ache, and he failed to maintain his stern expression for a moment. Left with no other choice, he said to Alice, "Miss Jenkins, please excuse us."<br /> <br /> Alice bit her lower lip. Her eyes were fiery with rage at this moment, but they were covered by her bangs.<br /> <br /> "Ivan, an untrained dog cannot comprehend human language," Rachel said to taunt her.<br /> <br /> That remark made Alice fume with rage. She clenched her fists, and glared at Rachel.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing Alice restrain her anger, Rachel tilted her head a little, smiling to vex Alice even more.<br /> <br /> The arrogant smile on Rachel's face annoyed Alice.<br /> <br /> 'What the hell is going on? Rachel is usually timid, and she's always obedient and grateful to me. Why did her personality turn upside down?'<br /> <br /> "Miss Jenkins," Ivan called out; his voice held a hint of impatience.<br /> <br /> Alice pressed her lips, hiding her suspicions. "Ivan, I'm not implying that I don't want my sister to leave. It's just that Victor asked me to see how things are going here."<br /> <br /> Both Ivan and Rachel were surprised to hear that.<br /> <br /> "Victor knew that I was coming here, so he specifically told me to watch Rachel pack up and leave. He said that according to the divorce agreement, Rachel wasn't allowed to take anything that belongs to the Sullivan family. I'm just here to make sure she upholds the agreement." Alice looked at the suitcase beside Rachel.<br /> <br /> "So, Rachel, could you please open your suitcase? I need to check if you took anything that doesn't belong to you."<br /> <br /> Rachel frowned at that. "It only contains a few clothes. I didn't take anything that belongs to the Sullivans!"<br /> <br /> Alice grabbed the suitcase from her and said, "I'm afraid it's not up to you to decide. If you didn't take anything inappropriate with you, why are you so afraid of letting me see the contents of your suitcase?"<br /> <br /> After that, she laid the suitcase on the ground and opened it.<br /> <br /> Inside it, several clothes had been piled up in a mess. It seemed that Rachel really didn't take anything valuable with her.<br /> <br /> Alice gritted her teeth. She didn't expect that Rachel was telling the truth. Unwilling to let her go so easily, Alice rummaged through the clothes. It was as if she wasn't going to stop until she had found a piece of evidence that could prove Rachel had stolen something from the Sullivans.<br /> <br /> The only contents of the suitcase were Rachel's clothes and cosmetics, and yet Alice kept rummaging through the suitcase for over ten minutes.<br /> <br /> "Are you done checking?" Rachel glanced down at Alice.<br /> <br /> "I'm just following Victor's orders. It's better to check thoroughly," Alice replied softly.<br /> <br /> "Fine. Go ahead and check those clothes for as long as you want. I don't want them anymore." Rachel shook her head. The bruises on her body still hadn't healed yet. She really didn't want to waste any more time with Alice, and she didn't want to wait for Victor to come back and try to strangle her again.<br /> <br /> Now that she had said her piece, Rachel walked past Alice and towards the elevator and pushed the button. Ivan followed suit.<br /> <br /> Ding!<br /> <br /> Before long, the elevator arrived at the third floor. The sliding doors opened slowly. Just before Rachel could walk in, she suddenly felt a chill. The temperature around her dropped several degrees, making her shiver and stop in her tracks.<br /> <br /> The first thing she saw was a pair of shiny leather shoes. When she raised her head, she caught sight of Victor's aloof face.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan." Ivan was the first to react, bowing his head respectfully.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, it seems that you've forgotten what I told you this morning." There was a flash of warning in Victor's eyes, and he sounded ill-tempered.<br /> <br /> The second she saw him, Rachel thought of how Victor choked her this morning. She trembled with fear, wary of what he might do to her.<br /> <br /> Standing in attention, she said, "No, I remember."<br /> <br /> "Oh, you do? Then why the hell are you still here?" Victor asked, striding towards her.<br /> <br /> Rachel kept pacing backwards until her back was against the wall. She closed her eyes for a second and then braced herself to look into his eyes.<br /> <br /> "You should ask Alice. I was about to leave, but she appeared out of nowhere and delayed me. That's why I..."<br /> <br /> Rachel was half-way to finishing her explanation when Alice suddenly interrupted her.<br /> <br /> "How could you lie like that?" she asked with tearful eyes.<br /> <br /> "I'm not lying!" At this moment, Rachel was cursing Alice in her head. If it weren't for this woman, she would've left an hour ago, and she wouldn't have run into Victor.<br /> <br /> Damn it.<br /> <br /> As if she was about to break into tears, Alice said, "Victor, I didn't mean to delay Rachel's departure. I was just following your orders to check her luggage. I'm afraid that she'll steal your stuff. My sister revels in lying. I didn't expect that she'd lie again this time."<br /> <br /> Alice's words reminded Victor of everything that Rachel had done, making him look more sullen than usual. "Do you honestly think I won't try to kill you?"<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, he strangled Rachel with his hand, slamming her head against the wall. She didn't see that coming, but she managed to grab Victor's hand instinctively. The pain coming from the back of her head made her dizzy.<br /> <br /> "Vic... Victor!" Rachel called out with difficulty.<br /> <br /> "How dare you test my patience over and over?" said Victor.<br /> <br /> With every passing second, Rachel was losing her consciousness. She couldn't break free from Victor's grasp at all.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing the situation, Ivan decided to intervene. He hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Mr. Sullivan, if something happens to Mrs. Sullivan, those bastards in the board of directors will use that against you. If that happens, your plan of concentrating equity will be hampered."<br /> <br /> "Fk off!" Victor roared. His fingers that were gripping Rachel's neck turned pale because of how strong he was gripping her.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 I Will Haunt You Forever<br /> As much as he worried about Rachel, Ivan didn't dare to talk back to Victor again.<br /> <br /> She didn't want to die.<br /> <br /> She used the last of her strength to push Victor's hand away. Once she was able to catch her breath a little, she stared at him; her eyes turning red.<br /> <br /> "If I die here and now, then I will die as your wife; still a member of the Sullivans. Someday, when you die, you will be buried next to me, and I will haunt you beyond the afterlife!"<br /> <br /> Rachel said those words with difficulty; her face had turned red due to the suffocation. Gradually, Rachel had no strength to struggle. Little by little, she could feel her consciousness slipping.<br /> <br /> "Who do you think you are? You don't deserve to be buried in my family's mausoleum." Victor sounded indifferent. "If you die, I'll cremate your body and throw the ashes into a bin. A woman like you deserves to rest with the rubbish!"<br /> <br /> Rachel burst into laughter.<br /> <br /> "Why are you laughing?" Victor asked.<br /> <br /> "Even if you throw my ashes into a bin, it won't change the fact that I'm your legal wife, and I'm part of your family tree. You loathe me, don't you? Sorry, but you'll never get rid of me, even if I die!"<br /> <br /> Victor stared daggers at her as he strengthened his grip, lifting her in midair. Consequently, Rachel yelped in pain, and tears rolled down her cheeks.<br /> <br /> Just when she was hallucinating of the shameless couple in her previous life, Victor suddenly let go of her.<br /> <br /> Rachel fell to the ground. She felt like every bone in her body had been broken, and even the slightest movement made her groan in pain.<br /> <br /> "Ahem! Ahem!" She coughed violently and gasped for air, breathing with so much difficulty.<br /> <br /> Ivan glanced at Rachel indifferently and lowered his head. "Mr. Sullivan, it's all my fault. I didn't urge her to leave in time. I'm willing to suffer the consequences."<br /> <br /> Alice turned pale with fear as she watched Victor beat up Rachel. She got down on her knees and begged, "Victor, I... This is my fault! I didn't check Rachel's suitcase faster. That's why she had the opportunity to lie and buy time for herself."<br /> <br /> Rachel could feel her chest tightening as she coughed over and over.<br /> <br /> "I didn't take anything that belongs to you," she said in a hoarse voice.<br /> <br /> Victor took out some wet wipes to clean his hand that had touched Rachel's neck. Disgust was evident on his face.<br /> <br /> "You didn't take anything? You bought all your clothes using my money. How dare you say that you didn't take my stuff?"<br /> <br /> Rachel pursed her lips, unable to refute his logic. On her wedding day, Alice had burned all the clothes that Rachel had bought herself. Alice said that her clothes were too vulgar, and Victor probably wouldn't want to see her wearing them.<br /> <br /> "Take off her clothes and throw her out!" After saying that, Victor left along with Ivan without hesitation.<br /> <br /> Only when those two had left did Alice get up and walk towards Rachel. Her previous ostensibly tenderness had now disappeared.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, you married Victor and slept with him, but so what? In the end, he kicked you out! You wanted to make him fall in love with you, didn't you? That's never going to happen! Do you really think I asked you to wear heavy makeup and put on weight because Victor likes it? This is hilarious. I can't believe you actually fell for that. No man will ever like a fat and idiotic woman like you! I was messing with you. I just wanted to make him hate you even more!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's face turned ghastly pale. When she heard what Alice said, she didn't even look at her. She was indifferent to Alice's words and did not seem to hear her provocation.<br /> <br /> Seeing that Rachel wasn't responding, Alice gritted her teeth in anger. "Why are you looking at me like that?"<br /> <br /> "Huh! You're so pathetic." Rachel chuckled, trying to endure the pain.<br /> <br /> She was sure that she had suffered an internal injury. Just the act of talking was painful enough to make her feel like her organs were being twisted together.<br /> <br /> But she couldn't afford to show any sign of weakness. Otherwise, Alice would revel in torturing her. Evil was in that woman's nature.<br /> <br /> "What did you say?" Alice's eyes widened in surprise. When Rachel sneered at her, she was goaded.<br /> <br /> "I said," Rachel took a deep breath to alleviate the pain in her chest. "You are living a miserable, ridiculous life. You're the most pathetic person I've ever met! Being called a bastard must make you feel inferior, doesn't it? You've been trying your best to steal everything I had since we were kids, because I'm the Bennet family's legitimate daughter, and you're just a dirty little bastard. You are always unpresentable!"<br /> <br /> "Bch! Shut the fk up!" Alice screamed. It seemed that Rachel had struck a sore spot.<br /> <br /> Rachel grinned and continued, "These past two years, I trusted you, and yet you deceived me by taking advantage of my desire to draw Victor's attention. You fooled me into doing stupid things in front of him, so that he would loathe me. At first, he didn't feel anything for me, and then he began to hate me. And now, he's too disgusted to even lay eyes on me. You must be proud of this accomplishment, aren't you?"<br /> <br /> Alice clenched her fists, looking at Rachel with hatred. "Well, you should blame yourself for being so stupid!"<br /> <br /> "You're right. I was stupid," Rachel admitted. Right now, she felt ashamed for what she had done in the past two years.<br /> <br /> Despite being the daughter of a rich and powerful family, she had lived a pathetic life. How did she end up this way?<br /> <br /> "You have a clear estimation of yourself." The look on Alice's face made it seem like she was the winner between them.<br /> <br /> "I almost died, and that's enough to wake me up. I'm not stupid like you after all." Rachel wanted to make sure that she didn't have any broken bones, so she propped herself up using her hands. However, the pain was far too much for her to bear, so she fell down once more.<br /> <br /> Sweat dripped down her forehead as she groaned in pain; her hands, pressing against the hard floor. The veins on the back of her hands were bulging because she was exerting every ounce of strength she could muster.<br /> <br /> Alice's face turned grim.<br /> <br /> "Your end is near, Rachel. How dare you talk to me like that? Remember, you are no longer Victor's wife, and are therefore no longer part of the Sullivan family! His grandmother is dead now, so there's no one left to protect you! If you have a brain in that empty head of yours, you should kneel down and beg me to persuade our father to allow you to go home!"<br /> <br /> When Alice mentioned Victor's grandmother, a faraway look appeared on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Victor's grandmother was the one who chose Rachel to be his wife. Not long after she married into the Sullivan family, the old lady died of illness. His grandmother used to be Rachel's protector when she was still alive. During that time, Rachel lived a dignified life within the Sullivan family's residence.<br /> <br /> "Do you think you'll be able to marry Victor and share the Sullivan Group with him after I divorce him?"<br /> <br /> Upon hearing that, Alice stood proudly. "You were able to do it, so I probably can as well."<br /> <br /> "You can't," Rachel said in a weak, yet firm tone. "Why are you so confident that Victor will agree to marry you? Just because he's also an illegitimate child, you think you're good enough to be his wife?<br /> <br /> Your mother is a mistress; a home-wrecker! Unlike you, Victor was born before his father even got married. And his mother never destroyed the man's marriage later!<br /> <br /> With that being said, you will never deserve to be Victor's wife," said Rachel.<br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Will And Testament<br /> Alice's fingernails were digging into her palms, and her chest was heaving up and down due to the anger she was feeling.<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, she pulled Rachel up and slapped her face.<br /> <br /> The slap left a palm print on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Blood oozed from the corner of her mouth. Obviously, Alice didn't hold back when she slapped Rachel.<br /> <br /> Gnashing her teeth, Alice said to the servants, "You two, hold her up!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's vision was fading because of how hard she had gotten hit. The servants didn't dawdle, and they immediately followed Alice's command. Each of them held one of Rachel's arms to restrict her.<br /> <br /> With a murderous gaze, Alice clasped Rachel's chin, forcing her to raise her head.<br /> <br /> The imprint of an open hand was evident on the right side of her face; it was red and swollen. Once more, Alice raised her hand and snarled, "You're quite glib, aren't you? Say something again, I dare you!"<br /> <br /> "Alice, do you know what my life motto is?" Rachel spat out a mouthful of blood, trying her best to keep her eyes open. Her almond-shaped eyes looked as cold as ice. Her steely gaze was enough to intimidate people.<br /> <br /> "Ten eyes for an eye, and ten teeth for a single tooth," Rachel sneered. "As long as I live and breathe, I will hunt you down to the ends of the earth, and I will make you suffer for what you've done to me today!"<br /> <br /> For a moment, Alice was startled by her gaze, but she soon came to her senses.<br /> <br /> "Don't try to frighten me with that threat! Do you think a loser like you could scare me?" she said through gritted teeth.<br /> <br /> Right after she said that, Alice hit Rachel's face until it swelled up.<br /> <br /> Her anger was finally quenched when she got tired. She looked at Rachel dead in the eyes and said to the servants, "Didn't you hear Mr. Sullivan earlier?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, ma'am. He ordered us to remove her clothes and throw her out," a servant said, lowering her gaze.<br /> <br /> Alice massaged her sore wrist, smiling with satisfaction before she decided to strut away.<br /> <br /> Before long, the servants stripped Rachel down to her pelt, leaving only a set of silk underwear to cover her naked body.<br /> <br /> Unable to resist, Rachel closed her eyes and gave up struggling. She just let them do whatever they wanted to her.<br /> <br /> She knew very well that her survival was now the most important thing.<br /> <br /> The servants supported her on each side as they walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> After all, Rachel was once Victor's wife. Even though the servants loathed her, they still didn't want to bear witness to her embarrassment. Along the way, she didn't see anyone else besides the maids who were escorting her.<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, the butler knocked on the door of the study.<br /> <br /> "Come in," said Victor.<br /> <br /> The butler entered the room and said to him, "Mr. Sullivan, Mrs-Ms. Bennet had been thrown out as you've commanded."<br /> <br /> Victor was currently reading a contract, so he didn't raise his head when he replied, "Did she say anything?"<br /> <br /> "No," said the butler.<br /> <br /> With a snort, Victor thought of what Rachel had said earlier. His eyes brimmed with cruelty as he shut the folder and ordered, "Tell them to throw that bch as far as they can. Don't let that woman disgrace my doorstep."<br /> <br /> The butler was shocked to hear that. "Yes, sir," he answered reluctantly.<br /> <br /> Inside a cramped basement somewhere south of the city...<br /> <br /> "No!" Rachel suddenly woke up, sitting upright and screaming. She was breathing heavily and looking ahead in horror.<br /> <br /> Just then, someone pushed the door open from outside. Seeing that she was awake, the man set aside the medicine he had prepared and walked to the bed.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, you're finally awake," he said with concern.<br /> <br /> Rachel looked at him vigilantly, calming down at once. She tried to recall the man's name, because he looked familiar. However, she couldn't remember who he was at the moment.<br /> <br /> She looked down at her body and remembered that she had been thrown out of Victor's house; half-naked and almost dying. But now, she was still alive, sitting here in a tacky yet neat floral shirt with matching pants.<br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Rachel's voice was hoarse, and it seemed like she was wary of him.<br /> <br /> "We've met before, but you were still a child back then. It's normal that you don't remember me. I'm Andy Torres, your mother's private lawyer." The man smiled at her.<br /> <br /> 'Andy? Mom's lawyer?'<br /> <br /> Rachel remembered that her mother did have a lawyer. "Did you save me?"<br /> <br /> "I did. When I called you, a passerby answered the phone and said that you had fainted. But don't worry, I didn't see anything. The man who found you covered you with a coat, and then I carried you to my car and drove you back here," Andy explained.<br /> <br /> "Then, why am I wearing these clothes?"<br /> <br /> "Oh, I asked an old lady who lives next door to change it for you."<br /> <br /> Rachel breathed a sigh of relief, but she still frowned. "You mentioned that you called me. What for?"<br /> <br /> Her mother died when she was 13. Andy said that he was her mother's lawyer, but Rachel hadn't seen him for so many years. It was suspicious that he suddenly showed up this time.<br /> <br /> Andy got up and walked out of the room. Moments later, he returned with a document, and gave it to Rachel.<br /> <br /> "This is your mother's last will and testament," he said.<br /> <br /> "My mother's will?" Doubt filled Rachel's eyes. If she remembered correctly, her mother departed this world so suddenly that she didn't have the time to make a will.<br /> <br /> Otherwise, Rachel's useless father and his mistress wouldn't have been so reckless and high-profile.<br /> <br /> "Yes, she entrusted me to be the witness of her will when she was still alive. She told me to make this will public, and give it to you on your 24th birthday."<br /> <br /> Now that Andy had mentioned that, Rachel remembered that her birthday was the same day of her divorce with Victor.<br /> <br /> "It's clearly stated in this will that you will inherit all of your mother's assets, including fifteen percent of the Bennet Group's shares, and the villa she lived in before she died," Andy continued.<br /> <br /> Rachel turned to the last page and she saw the name "Elisa Bennet" on the bottom right corner of the paper.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Torres, how many days have I been unconscious?" asked Rachel.<br /> <br /> "Three days."<br /> <br /> She then put away the document and got out of bed. "In that case, they've been living comfortably for three more days. That's enough for them."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Rachel walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, where are you going?" asked Andy.<br /> <br /> Rachel stopped at the door, glancing at the will in her hand. She raised her eyebrows and smiled.<br /> <br /> "Where else? I'm going back home and kick out my father, his bch of a mistress, and their daughter!" With that, Rachel opened the door and strode out.<br /> <br /> Andy was taken aback by what she said for a moment. Somehow, he saw a glimpse of Elisa during her youth.<br /> <br /> As he watched Rachel walk away, Andy put on his suit jacket and followed her quickly.<br /> <br /> In the Bennet family's house, in the Riverside Villa District north of the city...<br /> <br /> Rachel and Andy stood in front of the door. They had been ringing the doorbell dozens of times, and yet nobody was answering.<br /> <br /> Annoyed by the constant ringing, finally the housekeeper trotted outside and shouted, "Stop it! Who is there? A debt collector or something? Stop ringing it! You're driving me crazy!"<br /> <br /> Right after she stopped talking, the housekeeper opened the side door and looked at the visitors with a frown. She was stunned to see who they were.<br /> <br /> "You... it's you!" The housekeeper's face turned pale, and a chill ran down her spine because of how intimidating Rachel looked.<br /> <br /> Rachel put on a sardonic smile. "Well, we do have a debt to collect."<br /> <br /> ......<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Her fiance and her best friend worked together and set her up. She lost everything and died in the street. However, she was reborn. <br /> <br /> The moment she opened her eyes, her husband was trying to strangle her. Luckily, she survived that. She signed the divorce agreement without hesitation and was ready for her miserable life. <br /> <br /> To her surprise, her mother in this life left her a great deal of money. She prepared to turn the tables and aveng herself...<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &18&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-x	108394237578957	Fiction books	https://facebook.com/100075615382269	52,573	1	983,462,443,560,296	2024-07-07 02:00	person_profile	taken-down	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Fiction books	120211333045100416	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-xy-0720-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1955749504828214	2024-07-02 04:04	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449601270_834885791912010_277172571253635273_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sUSWyj6hyCEQ7kNvgHPZ1C_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAhNo2yoraBpEpiblqc8yIdFo-V0dme2Mtq0SMj9e166Q&oe=66924C41	person_profile	Fiction books	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449527552_3827553100905242_5047252663127582476_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yXUaukZwmGcQ7kNvgG_UEH5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDS7Hqjilj8-C1mDIc1-zJnK9uvQZwXcmZn2ZeIEelzEg&oe=66924655	3	Fiction books	2024-07-06 02:00	View Edit Delete
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1,915,470	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1915486}'	No	2024-07-08 20:08	active	1089	1518449028751707	Read more	Upon awakening, she realizes she has reincarnated as a useless girl madly in love with her husband. However, her husband despises her and wishes for her demise. With determination, she firmly divorces him, vowing to make those who hurt her pay the price!<br /> =====<br /> "Rachel, you fking bch. GO TO HELL!"<br /> On the king-size bed, the man's face was a mask of fury, his black eyes burning with hate. The veins stood out on his forehead and his arms as he wrung the woman's slender neck.<br /> The woman was still half-asleep, but she could feel something was wrong. She couldn't breathe!<br /> She groggily opened her eyes, seeing the man in front of her was strangling her neck tightly, choking the life out of her. <br /> <br /> On top of the pain she already felt, she could feel a terrible headache coming on. Memories that didn't belong to her started flooding her senses.<br /> <br /> She had been reborn, from Shelia Davis to Rachel Bennet.<br /> <br /> As Rachel Bennet's lungs started screaming for air, her survival instinct kicked in. She raised her hands to her throat, trying to fend off her attacker.<br /> <br /> But the man wouldn't budge. <br /> <br /> Bam!<br /> <br /> The door was thrown open and the butler rushed in. His face paled at the sight before him, but he didn't lose a minute. <br /> <br /> He hurried to the bed and grabbed the man's arm, shouting, "Mr. Sullivan! Mr. Sullivan! Please let go of her! You're killing her!"<br /> <br /> "She deserves to die!" The man had an unhinged look in his eyes and spit came out of his mouth along with his words.<br /> <br /> The butler knew that couldn't stop the man physically, so he knelt by the bed and started begging for Rachel's life. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, please! If you kill her, your grandma will roll over in her grave. She won't be able to rest in peace!"<br /> <br /> Grandma?<br /> <br /> Hearing the butler's words, Victor Sullivan loosened his grip slightly.<br /> <br /> Rachel grabbed the opportunity to escape his grasp and crawl away. Her back hit the headboard and she stayed there curled in a ball, looking at Victor with wide, fearful eyes.<br /> <br /> The butler saw the change in Victor's attitude as a sign to keep pushing. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, be patient! Today your divorce will become official. You will never see her again! Spare her life for her mother's sake. Her mother once saved your grandma, remember? Please calm down!"<br /> <br /> Victor seemed to see the reason behind his butler's words. He got out of bed, put on his pajamas in silence. When he was done, he turned around and spoke, in a voice cold as ice.<br /> <br /> "I'll tell Ivan to send the divorce papers here. Sign it and then get the hell out. I don't want to see your face ever again."<br /> <br /> With a final look filled with hatred, he left the room, followed by the butler.<br /> <br /> The door slammed behind him, the sound hurting Rachel's ears. She covered herself with the bedcovers, still in shock. Her face was deathly pale, her heart fluttering in her chest.<br /> <br /> The adrenaline coursing through her veins had dulled the pain until now. But when the worst had passed, Rachel felt that her entire body was sore. She hurt everywhere.<br /> <br /> Rachel couldn't find any women's clothes in the closet. It contained only men's shirts and black suits.<br /> <br /> She grabbed a shirt and a pair of suit pants and put them on. The pants were ridiculously large for her, dragging on the ground.<br /> <br /> Rachel slowly walked to the sofa and sat down. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes. <br /> <br /> After quietly sorting things out in her mind, she finally came to two conclusions.<br /> <br /> She really had been reborn.<br /> <br /> The one inhabiting this body was a worthless girl madly in love with Victor. Her mother had gotten sick and died a while ago and her father was a pathetic scumbag.<br /> <br /> There was a knock on the door.<br /> <br /> The sound startled Rachel out of her reverie. A cold voice came from the other side of the door. "May I come in?"<br /> <br /> She hastily rolled up the bottom of the pants and hurried to open the door. A tall and dull-looking man stood there, holding a stack of papers in his hand.<br /> <br /> "Ivan." Rachel quickly searched her memories and retrieved the man's name.<br /> <br /> His face expressionless, Ivan Chavez handed her the documents and a pen. "Mr. Sullivan asked me to see you out. As soon as you sign the divorce papers."<br /> <br /> Rachel glanced at the documents, recalling what the butler had said earlier. Today was the second wedding anniversary of Victor and Rachel, but from now on, it would also be the end of their marriage.<br /> <br /> Was the divorce agreement cooked up in less than an hour? Victor must really hate Rachel.<br /> <br /> She took the agreement and started turning pages, signing "Rachel Bennet" neatly wherever it was necessary. She was done in less than thirty seconds.<br /> <br /> "There you go," Rachel said, as she returned the papers to Ivan and clicked the pen.<br /> <br /> Ivan looked at her in astonishment, eyebrows raised. He didn't expect it to be so easy. When Victor asked him to bring over the agreement, he told Ivan that Rachel didn't want to sign it, so he might have to use force.<br /> <br /> "Don't you want to read it first?" Ivan said, still not reaching out to take the papers.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows and replied flatly, "No."<br /> <br /> "Aren't you curious about what you are getting out of this divorce?" Ivan was frowning now, looking more and more confused.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows while hitching up her pants. She flashed Ivan a smile. "There is no need to read it. I know that there are two possible outcomes. One is that I am in a world of debt and go bankrupt soon, and the other is that I have to leave this marriage without a penny. I am sure Victor put together a team of exceptional lawyers to work on the best option for him."<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes darkened. He took the divorce papers and said, "Mr. Sullivan just wants you to walk away without getting any of his assets."<br /> <br /> "Well, make sure you thank him on my behalf." Rachel really didn't give a shit about it at all. It was this body's former occupant that loved Victor, not her. She didn't even care if the man lived or died.<br /> <br /> She didn't want a violent man like him for a husband. A man that would strangle his own wife to death. She now had another chance to live and she intended to make the best of it.<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes fell on Rachel's neck.<br /> <br /> "Would you like me to call a doctor for you?"<br /> <br /> Rachel was at a loss for a moment. Then she remembered the bruises around her neck and raised her hand to touch them. The feeling of suffocation came back to her and she had to shake her head to get rid of it.<br /> <br /> "No, thanks. I'm fine. It's not that bad," she replied, shrugging.<br /> <br /> "Then please pack your things." Ivan's tone was back to normal: cold and businesslike.<br /> <br /> She nodded and left Victor's bedroom barefoot, still pulling up her pants. She had a long way to go to reach her own bedroom. Victor hated Rachel so much that he didn't even want to bump into her in the corridor, so her room was all the way to the other side of the huge house.<br /> <br /> It took her nearly two minutes to get there.<br /> <br /> Her bedroom had originally been a storage room, but soon after Rachel and Victor's wedding, Rachel moved in here. She pushed the door open and walked through the narrow doorway nimbly.<br /> <br /> The room was really small. It only contained a bed and a dressing table, the furniture was so close together that there was no room to walk around properly.<br /> <br /> Rachel didn't have much to pack. Except for her cosmetics strewn all over the dressing table and a few clothes, she didn't have much else. She changed into her own clothes and stuffed the rest of her things into a suitcase.<br /> <br /> "Okay, I'm all packed. I'm leaving now. I hope I will never see you again, Ivan! Goodbye!" Rachel said in a carefree, cool voice as she dragged her suitcase across the hall.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, where do you think you are going?" Suddenly, the elevator doors slid open, revealing a woman in a business suit. Her high heels clicked on the marble floor, the sound crisp and curt, matching her sharp voice perfectly.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Alice Gave Her A Hard Time<br /> Rachel stopped to look at the woman approaching her.<br /> <br /> "Alice?" Alice Jenkins was her half-sister, a veritable two-faced bch.<br /> <br /> As she stood in front of Rachel, Alice grinned. "My dear sister, are you moving out?"<br /> <br /> Rachel rolled her eyes at her, and put on a fake smile. "It's been so long since we last saw each other. Why do you still like asking dumb questions so much? "<br /> <br /> Her remark left Alice livid. But she soon suppressed her anger, changing into an innocent expression again.<br /> <br /> "I'm just trying to show you some concern. How can you think of me that way?"<br /> <br /> Concern?<br /> <br /> Tha was funny. She just wanted to mock her.<br /> <br /> With a face devoid of emotion, Ivan intervened in their conversation. He reminded Rachel, "Mrs. Sullivan, it's time for you to leave. Mr. Sullivan is about to come back."<br /> <br /> The corners of her mouth twitched. She pointed at Alice and said to Ivan, "It's not that I don't want to leave; it's just that there's a mad dog blocking my path. I'm afraid that she'll bite me."<br /> <br /> Ivan was rendered speechless.<br /> <br /> Alice began to shed crocodile tears. "Rachel, I know you're getting divorced today. I was really worried that you'll be sad, so I left my work early to come to see you. How... How could you say that to me? I'm your sister."<br /> <br /> "Shut up! I don't have a dog for a sister." Rachel quickly distanced herself from Alice, and turned to Ivan again. "Ivan, shall we?"<br /> <br /> His temples began to ache, and he failed to maintain his stern expression for a moment. Left with no other choice, he said to Alice, "Miss Jenkins, please excuse us."<br /> <br /> Alice bit her lower lip. Her eyes were fiery with rage at this moment, but they were covered by her bangs.<br /> <br /> "Ivan, an untrained dog cannot comprehend human language," Rachel said to taunt her.<br /> <br /> That remark made Alice fume with rage. She clenched her fists, and glared at Rachel.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing Alice restrain her anger, Rachel tilted her head a little, smiling to vex Alice even more.<br /> <br /> The arrogant smile on Rachel's face annoyed Alice.<br /> <br /> 'What the hell is going on? Rachel is usually timid, and she's always obedient and grateful to me. Why did her personality turn upside down?'<br /> <br /> "Miss Jenkins," Ivan called out; his voice held a hint of impatience.<br /> <br /> Alice pressed her lips, hiding her suspicions. "Ivan, I'm not implying that I don't want my sister to leave. It's just that Victor asked me to see how things are going here."<br /> <br /> Both Ivan and Rachel were surprised to hear that.<br /> <br /> "Victor knew that I was coming here, so he specifically told me to watch Rachel pack up and leave. He said that according to the divorce agreement, Rachel wasn't allowed to take anything that belongs to the Sullivan family. I'm just here to make sure she upholds the agreement." Alice looked at the suitcase beside Rachel.<br /> <br /> "So, Rachel, could you please open your suitcase? I need to check if you took anything that doesn't belong to you."<br /> <br /> Rachel frowned at that. "It only contains a few clothes. I didn't take anything that belongs to the Sullivans!"<br /> <br /> Alice grabbed the suitcase from her and said, "I'm afraid it's not up to you to decide. If you didn't take anything inappropriate with you, why are you so afraid of letting me see the contents of your suitcase?"<br /> <br /> After that, she laid the suitcase on the ground and opened it.<br /> <br /> Inside it, several clothes had been piled up in a mess. It seemed that Rachel really didn't take anything valuable with her.<br /> <br /> Alice gritted her teeth. She didn't expect that Rachel was telling the truth. Unwilling to let her go so easily, Alice rummaged through the clothes. It was as if she wasn't going to stop until she had found a piece of evidence that could prove Rachel had stolen something from the Sullivans.<br /> <br /> The only contents of the suitcase were Rachel's clothes and cosmetics, and yet Alice kept rummaging through the suitcase for over ten minutes.<br /> <br /> "Are you done checking?" Rachel glanced down at Alice.<br /> <br /> "I'm just following Victor's orders. It's better to check thoroughly," Alice replied softly.<br /> <br /> "Fine. Go ahead and check those clothes for as long as you want. I don't want them anymore." Rachel shook her head. The bruises on her body still hadn't healed yet. She really didn't want to waste any more time with Alice, and she didn't want to wait for Victor to come back and try to strangle her again.<br /> <br /> Now that she had said her piece, Rachel walked past Alice and towards the elevator and pushed the button. Ivan followed suit.<br /> <br /> Ding!<br /> <br /> Before long, the elevator arrived at the third floor. The sliding doors opened slowly. Just before Rachel could walk in, she suddenly felt a chill. The temperature around her dropped several degrees, making her shiver and stop in her tracks.<br /> <br /> The first thing she saw was a pair of shiny leather shoes. When she raised her head, she caught sight of Victor's aloof face.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan." Ivan was the first to react, bowing his head respectfully.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, it seems that you've forgotten what I told you this morning." There was a flash of warning in Victor's eyes, and he sounded ill-tempered.<br /> <br /> The second she saw him, Rachel thought of how Victor choked her this morning. She trembled with fear, wary of what he might do to her.<br /> <br /> Standing in attention, she said, "No, I remember."<br /> <br /> "Oh, you do? Then why the hell are you still here?" Victor asked, striding towards her.<br /> <br /> Rachel kept pacing backwards until her back was against the wall. She closed her eyes for a second and then braced herself to look into his eyes.<br /> <br /> "You should ask Alice. I was about to leave, but she appeared out of nowhere and delayed me. That's why I..."<br /> <br /> Rachel was half-way to finishing her explanation when Alice suddenly interrupted her.<br /> <br /> "How could you lie like that?" she asked with tearful eyes.<br /> <br /> "I'm not lying!" At this moment, Rachel was cursing Alice in her head. If it weren't for this woman, she would've left an hour ago, and she wouldn't have run into Victor.<br /> <br /> Damn it.<br /> <br /> As if she was about to break into tears, Alice said, "Victor, I didn't mean to delay Rachel's departure. I was just following your orders to check her luggage. I'm afraid that she'll steal your stuff. My sister revels in lying. I didn't expect that she'd lie again this time."<br /> <br /> Alice's words reminded Victor of everything that Rachel had done, making him look more sullen than usual. "Do you honestly think I won't try to kill you?"<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, he strangled Rachel with his hand, slamming her head against the wall. She didn't see that coming, but she managed to grab Victor's hand instinctively. The pain coming from the back of her head made her dizzy.<br /> <br /> "Vic... Victor!" Rachel called out with difficulty.<br /> <br /> "How dare you test my patience over and over?" said Victor.<br /> <br /> With every passing second, Rachel was losing her consciousness. She couldn't break free from Victor's grasp at all.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing the situation, Ivan decided to intervene. He hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Mr. Sullivan, if something happens to Mrs. Sullivan, those bastards in the board of directors will use that against you. If that happens, your plan of concentrating equity will be hampered."<br /> <br /> "Fk off!" Victor roared. His fingers that were gripping Rachel's neck turned pale because of how strong he was gripping her.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 I Will Haunt You Forever<br /> As much as he worried about Rachel, Ivan didn't dare to talk back to Victor again.<br /> <br /> She didn't want to die.<br /> <br /> She used the last of her strength to push Victor's hand away. Once she was able to catch her breath a little, she stared at him; her eyes turning red.<br /> <br /> "If I die here and now, then I will die as your wife; still a member of the Sullivans. Someday, when you die, you will be buried next to me, and I will haunt you beyond the afterlife!"<br /> <br /> Rachel said those words with difficulty; her face had turned red due to the suffocation. Gradually, Rachel had no strength to struggle. Little by little, she could feel her consciousness slipping.<br /> <br /> "Who do you think you are? You don't deserve to be buried in my family's mausoleum." Victor sounded indifferent. "If you die, I'll cremate your body and throw the ashes into a bin. A woman like you deserves to rest with the rubbish!"<br /> <br /> Rachel burst into laughter.<br /> <br /> "Why are you laughing?" Victor asked.<br /> <br /> "Even if you throw my ashes into a bin, it won't change the fact that I'm your legal wife, and I'm part of your family tree. You loathe me, don't you? Sorry, but you'll never get rid of me, even if I die!"<br /> <br /> Victor stared daggers at her as he strengthened his grip, lifting her in midair. Consequently, Rachel yelped in pain, and tears rolled down her cheeks.<br /> <br /> Just when she was hallucinating of the shameless couple in her previous life, Victor suddenly let go of her.<br /> <br /> Rachel fell to the ground. She felt like every bone in her body had been broken, and even the slightest movement made her groan in pain.<br /> <br /> "Ahem! Ahem!" She coughed violently and gasped for air, breathing with so much difficulty.<br /> <br /> Ivan glanced at Rachel indifferently and lowered his head. "Mr. Sullivan, it's all my fault. I didn't urge her to leave in time. I'm willing to suffer the consequences."<br /> <br /> Alice turned pale with fear as she watched Victor beat up Rachel. She got down on her knees and begged, "Victor, I... This is my fault! I didn't check Rachel's suitcase faster. That's why she had the opportunity to lie and buy time for herself."<br /> <br /> Rachel could feel her chest tightening as she coughed over and over.<br /> <br /> "I didn't take anything that belongs to you," she said in a hoarse voice.<br /> <br /> Victor took out some wet wipes to clean his hand that had touched Rachel's neck. Disgust was evident on his face.<br /> <br /> "You didn't take anything? You bought all your clothes using my money. How dare you say that you didn't take my stuff?"<br /> <br /> Rachel pursed her lips, unable to refute his logic. On her wedding day, Alice had burned all the clothes that Rachel had bought herself. Alice said that her clothes were too vulgar, and Victor probably wouldn't want to see her wearing them.<br /> <br /> "Take off her clothes and throw her out!" After saying that, Victor left along with Ivan without hesitation.<br /> <br /> Only when those two had left did Alice get up and walk towards Rachel. Her previous ostensibly tenderness had now disappeared.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, you married Victor and slept with him, but so what? In the end, he kicked you out! You wanted to make him fall in love with you, didn't you? That's never going to happen! Do you really think I asked you to wear heavy makeup and put on weight because Victor likes it? This is hilarious. I can't believe you actually fell for that. No man will ever like a fat and idiotic woman like you! I was messing with you. I just wanted to make him hate you even more!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's face turned ghastly pale. When she heard what Alice said, she didn't even look at her. She was indifferent to Alice's words and did not seem to hear her provocation.<br /> <br /> Seeing that Rachel wasn't responding, Alice gritted her teeth in anger. "Why are you looking at me like that?"<br /> <br /> "Huh! You're so pathetic." Rachel chuckled, trying to endure the pain.<br /> <br /> She was sure that she had suffered an internal injury. Just the act of talking was painful enough to make her feel like her organs were being twisted together.<br /> <br /> But she couldn't afford to show any sign of weakness. Otherwise, Alice would revel in torturing her. Evil was in that woman's nature.<br /> <br /> "What did you say?" Alice's eyes widened in surprise. When Rachel sneered at her, she was goaded.<br /> <br /> "I said," Rachel took a deep breath to alleviate the pain in her chest. "You are living a miserable, ridiculous life. You're the most pathetic person I've ever met! Being called a bastard must make you feel inferior, doesn't it? You've been trying your best to steal everything I had since we were kids, because I'm the Bennet family's legitimate daughter, and you're just a dirty little bastard. You are always unpresentable!"<br /> <br /> "Bch! Shut the fk up!" Alice screamed. It seemed that Rachel had struck a sore spot.<br /> <br /> Rachel grinned and continued, "These past two years, I trusted you, and yet you deceived me by taking advantage of my desire to draw Victor's attention. You fooled me into doing stupid things in front of him, so that he would loathe me. At first, he didn't feel anything for me, and then he began to hate me. And now, he's too disgusted to even lay eyes on me. You must be proud of this accomplishment, aren't you?"<br /> <br /> Alice clenched her fists, looking at Rachel with hatred. "Well, you should blame yourself for being so stupid!"<br /> <br /> "You're right. I was stupid," Rachel admitted. Right now, she felt ashamed for what she had done in the past two years.<br /> <br /> Despite being the daughter of a rich and powerful family, she had lived a pathetic life. How did she end up this way?<br /> <br /> "You have a clear estimation of yourself." The look on Alice's face made it seem like she was the winner between them.<br /> <br /> "I almost died, and that's enough to wake me up. I'm not stupid like you after all." Rachel wanted to make sure that she didn't have any broken bones, so she propped herself up using her hands. However, the pain was far too much for her to bear, so she fell down once more.<br /> <br /> Sweat dripped down her forehead as she groaned in pain; her hands, pressing against the hard floor. The veins on the back of her hands were bulging because she was exerting every ounce of strength she could muster.<br /> <br /> Alice's face turned grim.<br /> <br /> "Your end is near, Rachel. How dare you talk to me like that? Remember, you are no longer Victor's wife, and are therefore no longer part of the Sullivan family! His grandmother is dead now, so there's no one left to protect you! If you have a brain in that empty head of yours, you should kneel down and beg me to persuade our father to allow you to go home!"<br /> <br /> When Alice mentioned Victor's grandmother, a faraway look appeared on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Victor's grandmother was the one who chose Rachel to be his wife. Not long after she married into the Sullivan family, the old lady died of illness. His grandmother used to be Rachel's protector when she was still alive. During that time, Rachel lived a dignified life within the Sullivan family's residence.<br /> <br /> "Do you think you'll be able to marry Victor and share the Sullivan Group with him after I divorce him?"<br /> <br /> Upon hearing that, Alice stood proudly. "You were able to do it, so I probably can as well."<br /> <br /> "You can't," Rachel said in a weak, yet firm tone. "Why are you so confident that Victor will agree to marry you? Just because he's also an illegitimate child, you think you're good enough to be his wife?<br /> <br /> Your mother is a mistress; a home-wrecker! Unlike you, Victor was born before his father even got married. And his mother never destroyed the man's marriage later!<br /> <br /> With that being said, you will never deserve to be Victor's wife," said Rachel.<br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Will And Testament<br /> Alice's fingernails were digging into her palms, and her chest was heaving up and down due to the anger she was feeling.<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, she pulled Rachel up and slapped her face.<br /> <br /> The slap left a palm print on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Blood oozed from the corner of her mouth. Obviously, Alice didn't hold back when she slapped Rachel.<br /> <br /> Gnashing her teeth, Alice said to the servants, "You two, hold her up!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's vision was fading because of how hard she had gotten hit. The servants didn't dawdle, and they immediately followed Alice's command. Each of them held one of Rachel's arms to restrict her.<br /> <br /> With a murderous gaze, Alice clasped Rachel's chin, forcing her to raise her head.<br /> <br /> The imprint of an open hand was evident on the right side of her face; it was red and swollen. Once more, Alice raised her hand and snarled, "You're quite glib, aren't you? Say something again, I dare you!"<br /> <br /> "Alice, do you know what my life motto is?" Rachel spat out a mouthful of blood, trying her best to keep her eyes open. Her almond-shaped eyes looked as cold as ice. Her steely gaze was enough to intimidate people.<br /> <br /> "Ten eyes for an eye, and ten teeth for a single tooth," Rachel sneered. "As long as I live and breathe, I will hunt you down to the ends of the earth, and I will make you suffer for what you've done to me today!"<br /> <br /> For a moment, Alice was startled by her gaze, but she soon came to her senses.<br /> <br /> "Don't try to frighten me with that threat! Do you think a loser like you could scare me?" she said through gritted teeth.<br /> <br /> Right after she said that, Alice hit Rachel's face until it swelled up.<br /> <br /> Her anger was finally quenched when she got tired. She looked at Rachel dead in the eyes and said to the servants, "Didn't you hear Mr. Sullivan earlier?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, ma'am. He ordered us to remove her clothes and throw her out," a servant said, lowering her gaze.<br /> <br /> Alice massaged her sore wrist, smiling with satisfaction before she decided to strut away.<br /> <br /> Before long, the servants stripped Rachel down to her pelt, leaving only a set of silk underwear to cover her naked body.<br /> <br /> Unable to resist, Rachel closed her eyes and gave up struggling. She just let them do whatever they wanted to her.<br /> <br /> She knew very well that her survival was now the most important thing.<br /> <br /> The servants supported her on each side as they walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> After all, Rachel was once Victor's wife. Even though the servants loathed her, they still didn't want to bear witness to her embarrassment. Along the way, she didn't see anyone else besides the maids who were escorting her.<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, the butler knocked on the door of the study.<br /> <br /> "Come in," said Victor.<br /> <br /> The butler entered the room and said to him, "Mr. Sullivan, Mrs-Ms. Bennet had been thrown out as you've commanded."<br /> <br /> Victor was currently reading a contract, so he didn't raise his head when he replied, "Did she say anything?"<br /> <br /> "No," said the butler.<br /> <br /> With a snort, Victor thought of what Rachel had said earlier. His eyes brimmed with cruelty as he shut the folder and ordered, "Tell them to throw that bch as far as they can. Don't let that woman disgrace my doorstep."<br /> <br /> The butler was shocked to hear that. "Yes, sir," he answered reluctantly.<br /> <br /> Inside a cramped basement somewhere south of the city...<br /> <br /> "No!" Rachel suddenly woke up, sitting upright and screaming. She was breathing heavily and looking ahead in horror.<br /> <br /> Just then, someone pushed the door open from outside. Seeing that she was awake, the man set aside the medicine he had prepared and walked to the bed.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, you're finally awake," he said with concern.<br /> <br /> Rachel looked at him vigilantly, calming down at once. She tried to recall the man's name, because he looked familiar. However, she couldn't remember who he was at the moment.<br /> <br /> She looked down at her body and remembered that she had been thrown out of Victor's house; half-naked and almost dying. But now, she was still alive, sitting here in a tacky yet neat floral shirt with matching pants.<br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Rachel's voice was hoarse, and it seemed like she was wary of him.<br /> <br /> "We've met before, but you were still a child back then. It's normal that you don't remember me. I'm Andy Torres, your mother's private lawyer." The man smiled at her.<br /> <br /> 'Andy? Mom's lawyer?'<br /> <br /> Rachel remembered that her mother did have a lawyer. "Did you save me?"<br /> <br /> "I did. When I called you, a passerby answered the phone and said that you had fainted. But don't worry, I didn't see anything. The man who found you covered you with a coat, and then I carried you to my car and drove you back here," Andy explained.<br /> <br /> "Then, why am I wearing these clothes?"<br /> <br /> "Oh, I asked an old lady who lives next door to change it for you."<br /> <br /> Rachel breathed a sigh of relief, but she still frowned. "You mentioned that you called me. What for?"<br /> <br /> Her mother died when she was 13. Andy said that he was her mother's lawyer, but Rachel hadn't seen him for so many years. It was suspicious that he suddenly showed up this time.<br /> <br /> Andy got up and walked out of the room. Moments later, he returned with a document, and gave it to Rachel.<br /> <br /> "This is your mother's last will and testament," he said.<br /> <br /> "My mother's will?" Doubt filled Rachel's eyes. If she remembered correctly, her mother departed this world so suddenly that she didn't have the time to make a will.<br /> <br /> Otherwise, Rachel's useless father and his mistress wouldn't have been so reckless and high-profile.<br /> <br /> "Yes, she entrusted me to be the witness of her will when she was still alive. She told me to make this will public, and give it to you on your 24th birthday."<br /> <br /> Now that Andy had mentioned that, Rachel remembered that her birthday was the same day of her divorce with Victor.<br /> <br /> "It's clearly stated in this will that you will inherit all of your mother's assets, including fifteen percent of the Bennet Group's shares, and the villa she lived in before she died," Andy continued.<br /> <br /> Rachel turned to the last page and she saw the name "Elisa Bennet" on the bottom right corner of the paper.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Torres, how many days have I been unconscious?" asked Rachel.<br /> <br /> "Three days."<br /> <br /> She then put away the document and got out of bed. "In that case, they've been living comfortably for three more days. That's enough for them."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Rachel walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, where are you going?" asked Andy.<br /> <br /> Rachel stopped at the door, glancing at the will in her hand. She raised her eyebrows and smiled.<br /> <br /> "Where else? I'm going back home and kick out my father, his bch of a mistress, and their daughter!" With that, Rachel opened the door and strode out.<br /> <br /> Andy was taken aback by what she said for a moment. Somehow, he saw a glimpse of Elisa during her youth.<br /> <br /> As he watched Rachel walk away, Andy put on his suit jacket and followed her quickly.<br /> <br /> In the Bennet family's house, in the Riverside Villa District north of the city...<br /> <br /> Rachel and Andy stood in front of the door. They had been ringing the doorbell dozens of times, and yet nobody was answering.<br /> <br /> Annoyed by the constant ringing, finally the housekeeper trotted outside and shouted, "Stop it! Who is there? A debt collector or something? Stop ringing it! You're driving me crazy!"<br /> <br /> Right after she stopped talking, the housekeeper opened the side door and looked at the visitors with a frown. She was stunned to see who they were.<br /> <br /> "You... it's you!" The housekeeper's face turned pale, and a chill ran down her spine because of how intimidating Rachel looked.<br /> <br /> Rachel put on a sardonic smile. "Well, we do have a debt to collect."<br /> <br /> ......<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Her fiance and her best friend worked together and set her up. She lost everything and died in the street. However, she was reborn. <br /> <br /> The moment she opened her eyes, her husband was trying to strangle her. Luckily, she survived that. She signed the divorce agreement without hesitation and was ready for her miserable life. <br /> <br /> To her surprise, her mother in this life left her a great deal of money. She prepared to turn the tables and aveng herself...<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &18&	WATCH_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-x	108394237578957	Fiction books	https://facebook.com/100075615382269	52,573	1	836,668,028,056,812	2024-07-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Watch more	Fiction books	120212445830380608	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-xy-0720-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=432604739574735	2024-07-02 04:04	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449745924_395968840131953_1658627146651227164_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2BUqNC-9QiIQ7kNvgF-Bo5r&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDyy7P4REOFGR1NKHj_fxJJ9_L3NDqcZoEXZVSD2AdS4Q&oe=66924765	person_profile	Fiction books	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449684009_464929362812163_9213776579218784150_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yfibB0EvQfAQ7kNvgGymHLc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA4qovMVfwGwr5WicSpxXNFWuJRBgGX15HESzyvziuZ5g&oe=66924304	3	Fiction books	2024-07-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
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1,914,524	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1914529}'	Yes	2024-07-08 19:29	active	1089	466485532902076	🔥️click here to read more FREE chapters!	"Madam, it seems Mr. Lance won't be coming home tonight. Perhaps you should rest first?" Martha Zayne kindly spoke upon noticing the still-lit bedroom. A hint of disappointment crossed Jennifer Yale's eyes. Just then, the sound of an engine revving came from the yard. She didn't care to put on her slippers as she rushed to the window to peer outside. Sure enough, it was Maxwell Lance's silver car pulling into the garage. Jennifer took a deep breath, glancing down at her sensual lingerie while her heart pounded like a drum. Despite being married for two years, Maxwell had always slept in the guest room, and he never touched her. She knew their marriage was arranged by Maxwell's grandfather, Robert Lance, and it was not his choice. However, two years had passed. They couldn't possibly continue on like this. Did Maxwell not like her because she was merely an undergraduate with no experience in relationships? Was it because he found her too passive? With these thoughts, Jennifer quietly approached the guest room, clad in a seducing black lace nightgown. Summoning her courage, she knocked on the door, but there was no response. Carefully, she opened the door and heard the sound of running water from the bathroom. Maxwell must still be showering. The water suddenly stopped, and Maxwell emerged from the bathroom with just a towel wrapped around his waist. His muscular physique was in full display with water droplets cascading down his solid muscles. Jennifer was momentarily stunned. So, was this the embodiment of looking slim when clothed but muscular when undressed? "Jennifer!" Maxwell frowned, his tone clipped as he snapped, "Are you done staring? Who let you into my room?" Awkwardly, Jennifer averted her gaze and replied meekly, "You're my husband. Isn't your room also mine?" Then, with blushing cheeks, she blinked up at him and asked, "Do you like how I look?" Her petite, delicate frame stood before him, her soft face flushed red, and her long lashes fluttered. She appeared so innocent yet emitted an irresistible allure at the same time. He never knew his wife had this side to her. Maxwell masked the strange look in his eyes and subconsciously gulped. Quickly, he put on his robe before tossing her one of his shirts. Reining in his emotions, he said, "Go back to your room." Jennifer looked at him aggrievedly, feeling as though she had humiliated herself. In her mind, her best friend Laura Scott's words resurfaced. Laura had said that a young, energetic man like Maxwell, the scion of the wealthiest family in Haven City, coupled with his good looks, would inevitably attract countless women's attention. As he couldn't possibly remain celibate for long, he had to be indulging elsewhere and then coming home with a facade of abstinence. In a moment of doubt, Jennifer blurted out, "Are you seeing someone else?" Maxwell's gaze flickered briefly, and he neither confirmed nor denied it. Calmly, he uttered the cruelest words, "Jennifer, on the day we got married, I told you all I could offer was the position of Mrs. Lance. You shouldn't think about having anything else." Each time he repeated those words, a wave of powerlessness and despair surged within Jennifer, overwhelming her. Perhaps to him, she was just a girl from a modest background trying to climb the social ladder by marrying him. After all, no one would willingly marry a stranger. What he didn't know was that, many years ago, he had been a beacon of light that illuminated her world. While Jennifer was lost in her thoughts, Maxwell had opened the door for her. "Go to bed. Don't dress like that again. It doesn't suit you." At his evident dismissal, Jennifer left his room dejectedly, her face burning with mortification. As soon as she returned to her bedroom, her father, Zion Yale, called. "Dad, I'm sorry. He probably won't be going to Grandma's birthday celebration tomorrow." Jennifer knew she wouldn't be able to persuade Maxwell. Zion sighed heavily, saying, "You've been married for two years, yet he hasn't visited our family once. I've said we weren't worthy of the Lance family. If it weren't for your mother's insistence—" "Dad." Jennifer disliked hearing disparaging remarks about her mother. She interjected, "I married him out of my own will!" … The next day, Jennifer had to attend her grandmother Agnes Taylor's birthday celebration alone. Although she knew Agnes wasn't fond of her, she had to offer a toast in front of the guests as a show of respect. Her stepmother, Jocelyn Logan, remarked sarcastically, "Hey, Jennifer, why didn't you bring Maxwell? It's been two years since you got married, and we haven't even seen him." Agnes held a glass of wine and echoed with a fake smile, "I suppose our humble Yale family isn't worth his time! Today is an important day, but it seems like Maxwell doesn't value his grandmother-in-law." Jennifer's stepsister, Bridget Yale, chimed in mockingly, "Jennifer, I think the one Maxwell doesn't value is not Grandma but you. Am I right?" The voices of ridicule buzzed in Jennifer's ears, making her feel miserable. Out of frustration, she emptied her glass in one go. However, the aftereffects of the wine hit her hard, and she soon blacked out. In a car, Jocelyn and Bridget sat on either side of her. "Mom, as long as we get Jennifer into Mr. Zito's bed, I will secure my role as the second female lead in his new show!" Bridget's eyes sparkled with excitement. Jocelyn slyly ordered, "We mustn't let your father find out. Since he dotes on that wretched girl so much, he won't let us alone." "I know, I know," Bridget replied. "I've confirmed with Mr. Zito to bring her to Nimbus Lounge's penthouse suite." Jocelyn chuckled darkly. "What's so great about Jennifer? She doesn't deserve to marry Maxwell. It's only because of her mother who operated on Mr. Lance Senior and saved his life years ago that she got married to him. "On her deathbed, she entrusted Jennifer to them. At the end of the day, she was trying to reach the top. How shameless!" Bridget quickly agreed, "Exactly! If anyone should marry Maxwell, it should be me. What makes Jennifer better than me?" Jocelyn swore through gritted teeth, "Tonight, we will ruin her completely!" … Jocelyn and Bridget had only added a few sleeping pills to Jennifer's drink. When Jennifer felt a man's heavy breath and warmth on her, she immediately snapped awake. "Ugh... Let go of me!" The room was dark, and she couldn't see the man's face. Thus, she could only struggle against him with all her might, knowing the consequences of letting the man have his way would be irreversible. However, the man easily subdued her flailing arms. His warm lips brushed against her ear as he spoke in a low and husky voice, "Shh, behave..." Chapter 2 Maxwell had completely lost his rationality at this point. Whether it was the food or the drinks at the party earlier, something had gone wrong. Now, driven by desire, he found it difficult to control himself. As he touched the woman on the bed, her soft skin and fragrance aroused him considerably. The innocence in her responses and her helpless sobbing nearly drove him mad! An hour later, the man was finally satisfied and fell asleep. Jennifer felt as though her entire body had been crushed, the pain penetrating deep into her bones. Enduring the soreness in her limbs, she hurriedly got dressed and fled from the pitch-black room. In her haste, she collided with a young woman as she entered the elevator. "Sorry." Jennifer's face was deathly pale. She quickly stepped into the elevator and pressed the close button. Rachel Walker immediately looked back after exiting the elevator, staring at Jennifer in disbelief before the door closed. She recognized Jennifer as Maxwell's wife, the woman who'd stolen her place! There was only one penthouse suite on the top floor, so did that mean Jennifer had come out of Maxwell's room? Did they… sleep together? Jealousy consumed Rachel. She had put so much effort into bribing the staff at the party and calculating the timing and dosage of the drug in Maxwell's drink, only for Jennifer to beat her to it! Rachel hurried into the room. In the darkness, she heard Maxwell's even breath as he slept. Only then did she breathe a sigh of relief. A cunning smile played on her lips as she removed her clothes and lay down beside him. … Jennifer emerged from the club. She was too afraid to return to her and Maxwell's shared villa. She feared being seen in this state by him or the housekeepers. After all, in their two years of marriage, Maxwell had never touched her. But now, her purity had been stolen by a stranger. At the thought of this, Jennifer's mind went blank and her heart was in turmoil. She hailed a taxi, intending to return to the Yale residence. At least, she needed to take a shower and change her clothes first. When she arrived home, Bridget and Jocelyn were waiting in the living room, expecting a call from Daniel Zito. "Mom, do you think Mr. Zito has found Jennifer and… Ugh, I'm getting anxious! Why hasn't he called us yet? Shouldn't he just agree to let me be the second female lead already?" Bridget lamented, her eyes filled with greed. Jocelyn squinted and said, "Calm down. It's only past 11 pm. Mr. Zito is known for being play around. He wouldn't let Jennifer slip from his hands." While they were talking, Jennifer walked in with an extremely gloomy expression. "J-Jennifer?" Bridget stammered in shock, "Why are you back?" Jennifer sneered at her reaction. "Why are you so surprised?" Jocelyn looked equally flustered. She forced out a smile and said, "Jennifer, why did you leave your grandmother's birthday celebration? You didn't even inform us. She was very upset with you!" Jennifer slowly approached them. Judging from their behavior, she could roughly deduce who had brought her to Nimbus Lounge. The thought of her innocence being inexplicably tarnished ignited a rage within Jennifer. With a resounding slap, she struck Jocelyn's face mercilessly. Instantly, Bridget erupted in fury. "Jennifer, how dare you hit my mom? I'm going to call Grandma and Dad right now! Just you wait!" Jennifer seized Bridget's wrist, forcefully pulling her back. She shot Bridget a menacing glare as she bit out, "Go ahead, call everyone down. I can retrieve evidence from the surveillance at Nimbus Lounge. Once Dad finds out what happened tonight, let's see if he'll tear you both apart!" Jocelyn and Bridget's faces turned pale at her threat. They were visibly frightened of the repercussions if the night's affair were to reach Zion's ears. Back when Zion divorced his ex-wife, Jennifer was still young. She was reportedly bullied during her middle school days, even suffering from depression. Therefore, he had always felt guilty toward Jennifer, showing her more love. Moreover, what happened to Jennifer was no trivial matter. If things escalated, Jocelyn and Bridget would be in deep trouble! Jennifer sensed their unease and panic. She violently shoved Bridget away, causing her to fall to the floor, then dragged her weary body upstairs. Jocelyn hurriedly helped her daughter up, her sharp gaze fixed on Jennifer's retreating figure. Bridget asked anxiously, "Mom, why did Jennifer come back so soon? Did she and Mr. Zito..." "They must have," Jocelyn affirmed with a malicious smirk. "Didn't you see the marks on Jennifer's neck earlier? Seems like Mr. Zito was rather rough!" Suddenly, Bridget became worried. "But Jennifer must hate our guts now. What if she checks the surveillance and tells Dad about this? Did you not see how she looked just now? I thought she wanted to murder us!" Jocelyn calmly replied, "What's there to fear? Jennifer is married to Maxwell now. Do you think she would dare to reveal today's events? It's her reputation on the line here." The reasoning made sense, and Bridget began to relax. She then hastily urged, "Mom, hurry up and give Mr. Zito a call. Ask him when I can go to the set." Jocelyn dialed Daniel's number and questioned ingratiatingly, "Mr. Zito, were you satisfied with Jennifer tonight?" "Don't even mention it. Someone else has taken my penthouse suite reservation for tonight. I heard he was a big shot." Daniel said dejectedly, "I didn't even get to see the pretty chick you sent over." Jocelyn's face fell. "What? A big shot? Does that mean you didn't go to that penthouse suite?" Who slept with Jennifer then? There were so many marks on Jennifer's neck! "Alright, let's talk about your daughter's audition another time." Daniel's mood soured as he hadn't had his fun. Bridget stomped her foot in frustration, unable to believe that the first role she ever landed was going to be ruined just like that. At the corner of the staircase, Jennifer secretly observed the mother-and-daughter duo. From their conversation, she came to learn the whole situation. It turned out that they had planned to send her to Daniel, but because the penthouse suite was taken by someone even more powerful than him, she had been violated by another man… Jennifer tightly shut her eyes, not daring to recall further. The more she thought about it, the stronger her urge to strangle Bridget and Jocelyn became. Yet, she knew she couldn't act on those impulses. This matter involved both the Yale family's and the Lance family's reputation, as well as her own dignity. Hence, she could only swallow her anger and let the matter rest. Jennifer made her way to the bathroom. Standing under the shower, she vigorously scrubbed her bruised body. She felt absolutely filthy. Her innocence had been taken by a stranger instead of her husband. The thought made her sob uncontrollably, the sound blending with the rush of the shower, creating a poignant melody of despair. … Jennifer spent the whole night pondering. She was unable to suppress her indignation. She wanted to know who the man from the night before was. Thus, early the next morning, she went to Nimbus Lounge, hoping to retrieve surveillance footage or guest registration information. Unfortunately, she was told that guest information was kept strictly confidential. Furthermore, their surveillance system was hacked last night and only got back on moments ago. As for the footage, it was gone. Nimbus Lounge was the most upscale entertainment club in Haven City, with complex connections behind it. A young girl like Jennifer couldn't do anything about it. And so, Jennifer couldn't find a single clue. She couldn't seek help from anyone else either. If she were to make a fuss about it, it would cost her pride and dignity. Exhausted, Jennifer returned to the villa she shared with Maxwell. Along the way, she bought emergency birth prevention pills. Even though she was only 22 and inexperienced, she still had some basic knowledge. She took the pills and absentmindedly placed the box in a drawer. Jennifer collapsed onto the bed, falling asleep once again. When she woke up, it was already noon. To her surprise, Maxwell had returned at some point and was sitting on the bedroom couch. He was dressed in a black suit with a silver-gray tie, exuding an air of sophistication and elegance. However, his demeanor seemed extra aloof. Jennifer was startled. Because of what happened to her the previous night, she felt a sense of guilt and unease. Besides, Maxwell usually headed straight for the guest room upon his return, never setting foot in the master bedroom. At this moment, Maxwell stood up and walked over to her. "I came home earlier and heard from the housekeepers that you looked unwell. I thought you were sick, so I came in to check on you." Jennifer heaved a sigh of relief. Then, he tossed a pillbox in front of her. "I was looking for a thermometer in your bedside drawer, and I found this. Care to explain?" His tone was calm, but there was a palpable coldness and questioning in it. Jennifer saw the emergency birth prevention pills she had bought and felt her heart clench. Chapter 3 Jennifer looked at him in a panic, choking out, "Hear me out. Yesterday I—" "Enough," Maxwell cut her off, his gaze falling on the marks on her neckline. It was unmistakably the aftermath of a liaison. His tone remained calm and indifferent as he continued, "It's partly my fault for ignoring you these two years. I don't blame you for what you did. But, Jennifer, the Lance family can't accept a tainted woman." Jennifer's mind went blank. All her explanations now seemed futile. Anyway, why would he listen to her when the truth was right before his eyes? Besides, even if she could prove that she had been framed by Bridget and Jocelyn, it was still a fact that she was tainted. Jennifer smiled bitterly. "So, are you asking for a divorce?" Maxwell nodded. "I hope you will make it clear to Grandpa that you're the one asking for a divorce. I can offer you a bit of dignity by keeping him in the dark about your infidelity." Jennifer felt her eyes sting with tears, but she desperately held them back. After a long while, she inhaled deeply and asked, "Can you... answer a question?" "Go ahead." Maxwell's eyes betrayed no emotion. Staring at him, Jennifer quavered, "Are you seeing someone else? In these two years of marriage, have you felt anything for me? If it weren't for her, would you have liked me?" Maxwell's gaze softened slightly, and he replied casually, "Sorry. As I told you on the day we got married, all I can offer you is the position of Mrs. Lance." Although he wasn't answering her question, Jennifer, being a woman, had an intuition that he had long harbored feelings for another woman. "In the next few days, I'll have my lawyer draw up the divorce agreement. You only need to sign it and then explain things to Grandpa." Maxwell spoke of divorce with such casualness, as if he were discussing what to have for dinner. After saying that, he left the master bedroom without hesitation. Jennifer felt cold. Despite it being a hot summer day, she felt like she was trapped in ice. What made her hopeless was not Maxwell's proposal for divorce, but the fact that he believed she had an affair and yet remained so composed. She knew that his calmness was not due to his manners and upbringing, but because he simply didn't love her. Jennifer was in a daze. She had always known their marriage would eventually end like this. But now that day had truly arrived, she found herself unable to bear it. She was unwilling to let go. Taking out her phone, she dialed her best friend's number. "Laura, have you finished work? I... I..." Jennifer's voice choked up. She felt so aggrieved that she couldn't speak. Sensing her distress, Laura said troubledly, "Jennifer, I have to conduct an interview tonight, and it might take a while. How about I send you the address and you come to find me? We can talk after I finish the interview, okay?" "Okay." After Jennifer agreed, she immediately set out. According to the address Laura gave her, she arrived at a dance studio and parked her car downstairs. The studio was holding its grand opening, and the owner wanted to make a splash by arranging an interview with the local TV station in Haven City. When Laura heard that Jennifer had arrived, she ran downstairs and got into her car. "The studio owner is so unreliable. The ribbon-cutting and opening were supposed to be in the morning. I could have finished work early today. But because she changed the time, I had to stay here and work overtime for the interview. I mean, who schedules a grand opening in the evening?" Laura started complaining as soon as she saw Jennifer. Jennifer could only comfort her. "This is Haven Tower. Every inch of space is precious. The rich can be capricious." As the two were talking, Laura received a call from her colleague asking her to go up. "Go ahead, I'll wait here," said Jennifer as she felt too exhausted to tag along. After Laura left, Jennifer's gaze fell on the street not far away. The next second, her eyes widened in shock. That was because she had inadvertently spotted Maxwell get out of a car. He was holding a bouquet of red roses. The bright red color was as glaring as blood. Jennifer's hand on the steering wheel trembled. This man had talked to her about divorce not long ago. And now, he was here with roses that she had never received before. Maxwell headed into Haven Tower. Immediately, Jennifer got out of the car and followed from a distance. At the entrance of the dance studio, the lights were on and the atmosphere was lively. Laura was interviewing the studio's owner, a knowledgeable and beautiful woman. The latter spoke with a warm and friendly smile. In her hands were the roses Maxwell had just given her. Jennifer felt a buzzing in her ears, and her eyes fell on Maxwell. Nonetheless, he didn't see her as all his focus was on that woman. Even the gentle smile on his lips was one she had never seen before. Jennifer clenched her fists tightly, willing herself not to rush over to confront them. … After the opening ceremony, Rachel and Maxwell went to the lounge alone. "Max, did you really bring up the divorce with your wife?" Rachel leaned in his arms, looking aggrieved. "Your grandfather won't blame you, will he? I'm afraid you'll offend him because of me." Maxwell comforted her softly, "You're the woman I cherish the most. If I can't have you as my wife, I'd rather not lay my hands on you. I've felt guilty for letting you follow me in obscurity all these years. Since I took your innocence last night, I will take responsibility." A scheming glint flashed in Rachel's eyes, but she quickly resumed her pitiful expression. "I'm lucky to be your woman. I've never regretted it." Rachel then held her chest and said meaningfully, "Thank goodness your assistant told me that you were drugged. Otherwise, if another woman had entered that room, I... I really wouldn't be able to take it. Max, I don't want to share you with anyone else." Amid their affectionate moment, Maxwell's phone rang. He was surprised to see that it was a call from Jennifer. Why would she call him? "What do you want?" he answered somewhat indifferently. Jennifer said, "Maxwell, I regret the divorce." Maxwell paused. "What do you mean?" "Come home. I think we need to talk." Jennifer hung up the phone after that. Meanwhile, Rachel's expression had changed too. She had vaguely heard that Maxwell's wife didn't want a divorce anymore. "Rach, I need to go home for a bit." Maxwell explained truthfully, "There may be some changes regarding the divorce." Chapter 4 Maxwell arrived home well past 11:00 pm. The villa was eerily quiet, with only a night light switched on in the living room. Jennifer sat on the couch, seemingly waiting for him. As Maxwell took off his coat and loosened his tie, he spoke impatiently, "Didn't we agree on the divorce? I won't shortchange you when it comes to assets. You can rest assured about that." He thought she wanted a larger share of the assets. Jennifer's voice was hoarse when she asked, "Maxwell, did you want a divorce because of that woman?" Maxwell's expression faltered slightly, but he quickly regained his composure. He didn't want to hide anything from her, nor did he care to. "Yes. I owe it to her. That's something I must do," he admitted frankly. Jennifer chuckled bitterly. "I only discovered today how hypocritical you are. You played the victim, making me feel guilty and pushing me to get a divorce. I bet you were secretly pleased, weren't you? You finally caught me making a blunder, and you're now forcing me to leave so you can be with her." Maxwell furrowed his brows. His tone was chilling as he replied, "Jennifer, let's make things clear. Rachel and I were together in the first place. You know very well how you ended up marrying me. Now that you have someone else, we're even. Let's spare each other, shall we?" "No!" Jennifer's words were sharp. "I hate being deceived. You and her have been playing me like a fool for the past two years. Do you think I'll let you off?" Maxwell rubbed his temples, suppressing his irritation. With gritted teeth, he demanded, "Then what do you want?" "I won't get a divorce." With that, Jennifer went to the bedroom. Almost as soon as she turned around, her tears surged out. For two whole years, she had been waiting for him to return her feelings. Before her mother passed away, she was told that most marriages in this world were built on growing affection over time. Love at first sight was just infatuation, like what she felt for Maxwell. But marriage ultimately relied on tolerance and patience. Jennifer thought her perseverance would eventually warm his heart. Now she realized how wrong she was. The presence of that woman had already negated all her efforts and perseverance. … For the next two weeks, Maxwell never returned to the villa. He even stopped staying in the guest room altogether. Jennifer immersed herself in her university's laboratory, focusing on her studies. She was now in her fourth year of medical school, preparing for her postgraduate entrance exam. She didn't want to trap herself in a hopeless marriage. Even if she couldn't have love, at least she would still have her career. Now, concentrating all her energy somewhere else was the only way to keep her thoughts from drifting toward Maxwell. In the evening, after finishing her experiments, Jennifer came out of the laboratory. "You're Ms. Yale, right?" Rachel was standing outside the laboratory building, waiting for her. Jennifer immediately recognized her as the dancer Rachel whom Laura had interviewed. Nonetheless, she pretended not to know her and asked impassively, "I am. Who are you?" Rachel smiled, as smart and gentle as ever. "Ms. Yale, do you mind having a talk? My name is Rachel Walker. I'm… a friend of Max's." "A friend?" Jennifer sneered. "Maxwell has too many friends; I've never heard him mention you. Sorry, but I don't have time right now." Rachel blocked her way, still smiling. "Ms. Yale, I won't take up much of your time." Jennifer had long harbored resentment toward this woman. Since she insisted, Jennifer wanted to see what Rachel was up to. So, the two of them went to a cafe near Haven University. "Ms. Yale—" Rachel had just opened her mouth when Jennifer interrupted her. "Ms. Walker, since you're a friend of Max, you should know me, right? Please call me Mrs. Lance." Jennifer emphasized "Mrs. Lance" heavily. Rachel looked embarrassed and nodded. "Okay, I'll call you Mrs. Lance for now. I came to apologize to you today. After all, Max has caused you a lot of grievances because of me." "Has he?" Jennifer acted nonchalant, saying, "What grievances has he caused me? I don't know about that. Ms. Walker, aren't you thinking too highly of yourself? Maxwell has been good to me, really." Rachel's smile deepened, and in her softest voice, she pierced through Jennifer's facade. "Is that so? But Max told me you refused to get a divorce. He's quite troubled by it. After all, Max and I met in our university days, and we got together very early on. We were about your age when we fell in love." Although Jennifer was prepared to face Maxwell's mistress, she only realized how far she was from Rachel's level during the actual confrontation, especially when Rachel recounted her past with Maxwell. "Max told me everything about you. Your late mother saved his grandfather's life with a highly complex heart surgery, which made Mr. Lance Senior feel deeply indebted to your family. So, when she entrusted you to him before her death, he couldn't refuse. Of course, you were also a sacrifice in this arranged marriage. You're quite pitiful." Rachel's voice was gentle, neither hurried nor annoyed, but it was enough to insult Jennifer's pride and dignity. Jennifer slowly stirred the coffee in front of her, her heart completely knotted by now. So, it seemed that Maxwell had told this woman everything. She must be a joke to them, right? Jennifer decided to play along and said, "Since you pity me, why don't you be a good person and stop bothering Maxwell and me?" Rachel's smile stiffened. She had expected Jennifer to be furious. However, she was surprised to find that the young girl could keep her composure. With a shallow smile, she responded, "I didn't want things to turn out this way either, but Max insists on taking responsibility for me. After all, even though I'm not his wife, we have consummated. Ms. Yale, you're still young, and you wouldn't understand." Jennifer clenched her fists tightly under the table. Each word Rachel uttered was akin to a dagger stabbing her heart without mercy. She had seen this coming. No man could control himself when it came to the woman he loved. But hearing the blatant truth from Rachel caused Jennifer to feel suffocated. After taking a deep breath, she asked, "So, have you come to me today to ask for my acceptance for you two to be together?" "If possible, I'll make sure Max provides you with more security for your future. You will receive fair compensation." Rachel thought Jennifer was wavering, so she proposed attractive conditions, tempting her with money. Jennifer chuckled at that. "I'm sorry, but I'll get much more than what's in this divorce agreement by continuing being his wife." "But there should be order when it comes to love." Rachel's smile faded as she realized Jennifer wasn't budging. She continued with a hint of urgency, "Even if you insist on staying married, it's futile. I came into Max's life first. It's him and I who are in love." Jennifer nodded. "Yes, you two love each other, but I'm the one married to him. Love may have an order, but the law doesn't care about who comes first. Our marriage certificate is solid proof that you can never be with him legitimately." Just then, Jennifer's phone rang. Seeing that it was Maxwell calling, she was instantly reminded that the fifteenth of every month was the day they would return to Lance Manor to dine with Robert. Intentionally, she put the call on speaker for Rachel to listen. Maxwell's voice sounded. "Where are you? We have to head to Lance Manor today." "Babe, I'm still at the university. I just finished my experiment. Could you come pick me up?" Jennifer's voice was meek with a hint of coquettishness. For a moment, Maxwell was stunned, unable to wrap his head around what Jennifer had called him. Chapter 5 Maxwell had never given her permission to address him as "babe". Just as he was about to reprimand her, Jennifer had already ended the call. Observing Rachel's displeased expression, Jennifer finally broke into a smile of unprecedented satisfaction. "Ms. Walker, did you see that?" She shook her phone while saying, "My husband is coming to pick me up. Regardless of who came into his life first, the person he brings back to Lance Manor will always be me!" Then, she stood up and placed two 100 bills on the table. "Enjoy your coffee. It's my treat." Having said that, Jennifer walked out of the cafe. At that moment, the burden that had weighed on her chest for so many days was finally lifted. … Before long, Maxwell's car arrived at the gates of Haven University to pick Jennifer up. Robert had raised him, and he held an eternal respect for Robert. It was for this reason that he personally came to pick Jennifer up, to avoid displeasing Robert. As she got into the car, Maxwell stated coldly, "Jennifer, don't call me that again." "Understood," Jennifer obediently replied. She didn't bring up Rachel's visit because his favoritism might cloud his judgment. Who knows, he might even accuse her of mistreating his darling. When she didn't argue, Maxwell quit pursuing the matter and drove toward Lance Manor. Lance Manor was situated in the southern part of Haven City, surrounded by hills and water. A wealthy foreigner had once set his eyes on this mansion, offering eight billion to purchase it, only to earn Robert's disdainful smile in return. The fifteenth of every month was the Lance family banquet, where Maxwell's father and stepmother would also be present. Maxwell's stepmother, Lorraine Young, was smiling obsequiously while saying to Robert, "Dad, Jordan heard that you haven't been feeling well lately, and your asthma is acting up frequently. "He specifically went abroad to seek help from medical experts. That's why he couldn't make it back in time for dinner today. He asked me to apologize to you." Robert was slightly taken aback. "Since when did Jordan become so thoughtful?" Lorraine's face revealed a hint of unease as she hurriedly clarified, "Jordan has always been dutiful. Recently, he even mentioned that since he graduated long ago, it's time for him to work at Lance Group to assist Max. He wishes to share your burdens with Max." Maxwell's expression darkened a little when he heard this. In exchange for marrying Jennifer, he had made Robert promise to hand over the executive power of Lance Group to him and not let his stepbrother, Jordan Lance, join the company. From the way Lorraine put it, could it be that Robert hadn't made it clear to them yet? Maxwell's father, Zachary Lance, chimed in, "Dad, why don't you arrange a position for Jordan at Lance Group soon? Although Max is running the company well, Lance Group is too big for him to do it alone." Since Zachary's divorce from his ex-wife and marriage to Lorraine, Robert had relieved him of all his positions at Lance Group and instead allowed Maxwell to take over the company. Zachary and Lorraine were afraid that their youngest son would also be rejected by Robert, hence they spared no effort to speak up for Jordan. Robert cleared his throat and replied bluntly, "Jordan is still young. He should gain more work experience elsewhere. There isn't a suitable position for him at Lance Group at the moment." Lorraine's face fell in an instant. She knew that as long as Maxwell was around, her son would never be valued by Robert. Jennifer had been sitting silently next to Maxwell, eating her meal without a word. However, she understood their conversation perfectly well. At this moment, Robert shifted his attention to her, and his stern expression eased up. "Jennifer, you seem to have lost weight again. You should eat more," Robert said with a smile. "Is Max treating you well? He hasn't mistreated you, has he?" Jennifer glanced at Maxwell and forced a smile. "Don't worry, Grandpa. Max treats me very well." Lorraine's chuckle followed right after. "Really? How come I heard that Max hardly goes home aside from a few times a month? Even when he does, he's sleeping in guest room." "What? Guest room?" Robert's expression immediately turned sullen. "What's going on?" Maxwell pursed his lips, casting a suspicious gaze at Jennifer. He had handpicked all the housekeepers at the villa. He was sure none of them would gossip, so how was Lorraine well-informed about these things? Afraid that Robert wouldn't believe her, Lorraine added, "Dad, they have been married for two years now, but there's still no news of a baby. They are both so young. They should have conceived by now." A realization seemed to dawn on Robert, and he stood up. "Max, come with me to the study." Jennifer watched in concern as the two left, feeling a bit flustered. Although Maxwell deserved Robert's reprimanding, she couldn't help but worry. … In the study, Robert and Maxwell faced each other in silence. After a long while, Robert spoke solemnly, "Max, I didn't let you marry Jennifer to make her suffer. Her mother saved my life!" "Marrying her was the biggest compromise I could make. As for the rest, I can't promise anything." Maxwell's voice was devoid of any warmth. Robert snorted. "You heard what Lorraine said just now. If this is how you treat Jennifer, then I'll have to reconsider the inheritance issue more fairly. Jordan is also my grandson after all." Ultimately, Maxwell held himself back from mentioning the divorce. He had sacrificed so much to marry Jennifer. He couldn't afford to fail now. When he was six, Zachary drove his mother away and married Lorraine. He had searched for his mother for so long, but couldn't find her. Until now, he didn't know whether his mother was alive or dead. How could he let go of such hatred? "I understand, Grandpa. I know what to do," he agreed in the end. As long as he stayed in power, he would never let Zachary and Lorraine off easy! But Robert didn't easily buy his words. "From today onward, you and Jennifer will move back to Lance Manor," he commanded. "Once you both have a child, I'll hand over all the shares and executive power I hold at Lance Group to you." … And so, Maxwell and Jennifer moved to Lance Manor that night. Of course, Robert had arranged for them to stay in one bedroom. Jennifer nervously gazed at Maxwell's gloomy face, her heart pounding in her throat. Maxwell reached out, pinching her chin and forcing her to look into his eyes. "How did Lorraine find out about our situation? Are you close to her?" Jennifer picked up his suspicion and immediately defended herself. "You hate that woman, and I don't like her either. Why would I be in contact with her?" However, her words lacked conviction. Maxwell smirked wickedly. "Are you that desperate to share a room with me? I shall fulfill your wish today then!" Chapter 6 Jennifer understood the meaning behind his words and instinctively retreated to the corner of the bed. Without a warning, Maxwell effortlessly gripped her calf and pulled her toward him, pinning her down with his weight. Having been rendered immobile, Jennifer could only push at his shoulders, asking in alarm, "Maxwell, what are you doing?" "What do you think? What else can a man and a woman do on a bed?" Maxwell's cool breath swept over her as his fierce kiss landed on her neck. "No!" Jennifer struggled, frightened. "Maxwell, don't do this. Don't touch me!" His actions reminded her of that horrific night when the strange man seemed equally rough. Jennifer didn't want to recall it again. If Maxwell continued, she would break down. Seeing Jennifer crying miserably, Maxwell couldn't truly bring himself to punish her in this way, even if he was always harsh toward her. After all, if this were done without love, it would be a punishment for both sides. He stopped, but his hands remained at her sides as he leaned down to look at the pitiful woman. "Why are you crying?" Maxwell growled. "Since you don't want a divorce, don't try to remain chaste for other men! Get your head straight and remember that I am your husband!" He would never stoop low and force himself on women, especially not Jennifer who had been tainted by another. She was filthy! Maxwell retrieved blankets and pillows from the closet, preparing a makeshift bed on the floor. Jennifer felt extremely aggrieved. She wanted to tell him that she didn't have another man, but then how could she explain the birth prevention pills? Even if she told Maxwell that she had been violated by a complete stranger, he would probably think she was even more indecent, wouldn't he? … The next day, Maxwell felt sore all over as he had never slept so on the floor before. When they went downstairs for breakfast, Robert was already seated at the table. His expression softened slightly when he saw the two coming down together. At that moment, Maxwell's phone buzzed with a WhatsApp message from Rachel. Jennifer glanced at it and saw a photo, probably of breakfast that Rachel had made. It looked quite appetizing. Maxwell looked at the message and stood up without touching the food on the table. He said, "Grandpa, I'm going to the company." "At this hour?" Robert frowned. "Do you think I'm easy to deceive because I'm old?" "I have a meeting today. I want to avoid getting stuck in traffic," Maxwell reasoned. Jennifer sneered inwardly at his excuse. She bet he simply didn't want to miss out on the breakfast Rachel had made. Robert ordered, "Sit down and have breakfast. After that, send Jennifer to class before going to the company." "What?" Maxwell sounded impatient. "Doesn't she have a car?" Jennifer immediately said, "Babe, my car broke down yesterday. It's getting repaired." Babe? She was calling him that again? Maxwell restrained his anger in front of Robert and gritted his teeth. "Fine, I'll send you." After breakfast, Robert deliberately prompted, "Jennifer's car broke down. How will she come home later?" "Grandpa, Max will come to pick me up," Jennifer said, her eyes fixed on Maxwell. "Right, babe?" Maxwell forced a smile. "Right." Only then did Robert grin happily and nod. "That's more like it! Back in our days, people would get married before even meeting each other. Nonetheless, they lived happily ever after. Jennifer is a wonderful girl. You should know how to cherish her!" Maxwell listened to his grandfather's advice, feeling a headache coming on. Upon reaching the garage, Maxwell stopped in his tracks and looked at Jennifer sternly. "Jennifer, I warned you yesterday not to call me that." Jennifer blinked innocently. "Didn't you say last night that I should get my head straight and that you're my husband? So, what's wrong with calling you that?" "Jennifer! Are you trying to piss me off?" Maxwell frowned deeply, pinching the bridge of his nose. Jennifer didn't want to endure his mistreatment anymore. What did she gain from being submissive and obedient every day? She couldn't warm Maxwell's stone-cold heart. Instead, she had let him step all over her with his mistress! With a determined mind, Jennifer haughtily got into his car. On the way, Maxwell said sombrely, "Jennifer, just because Grandpa has your back, it doesn't mean you can act so recklessly. You better rein in your temper. My patience is limited!" "Well, so is mine!" Jennifer smirked as she drawled, "Babe, just drop me off at the intersection across from the campus. Remember to pick me up in the evening." Maxwell slammed on the brakes, yelling, "Don't push your luck! I'm busy tonight. You can take a taxi home by yourself." Jennifer shrugged. "Fine. I'll tell Grandpa to send a driver to pick me up." … As expected, using Robert as leverage was more effective than anything else. At 6:30 pm, Jennifer exited the university campus and spotted Maxwell's conspicuous red car at first glance. Suddenly, chaotic calls for help rang out. "Is there a doctor? Someone has fainted here!" "It looks serious! She seems to have stopped breathing!" As a medical student, Jennifer couldn't stand idly by. She quickly rushed into the crowd, where an elderly woman was surrounded. She lay unconscious on the ground, her face turning purple. Jennifer immediately instructed the crowd to step back and make room. While urging someone to call the ambulance, she began performing CPR on the elderly woman. "Anyone here has asthma? Do you have an inhaler?" Judging from the symptoms of the elderly woman, Jennifer felt she seemed to be suffering from an asthma attack. Due to a lack of medication, it had led to brain hypoxia and cardiac arrest. "I do. I do!" At this moment, a kind-hearted passerby handed over his inhaler. After ten minutes of continuous chest compressions, coupled with the effects of the inhaler, the elderly woman finally began to recover consciousness. The ambulance happened to arrive as well. "Ms. Yale, every second counts. If it weren't for your timely rescue, I'm afraid the old lady wouldn't have made it before we arrived," said the doctor who got out of the ambulance. Coincidentally, he was Jennifer's former lecturer. He generously praised her, feeling proud for raising such an excellent student. The crowd also complimented Jennifer for her heroic act as they had marveled at the thrilling scene earlier. As the crowd gradually dispersed, she noticed Maxwell standing not far away. Jennifer was slightly taken aback upon meeting his gaze. She had never seen such a gentle look in Maxwell's eyes before. It was uncharacteristically warm. Chapter 7 Maxwell seemed like he was smiling as he approached Jennifer. Then, he crouched down and took out a wet wipe with wine, helping her clean the dirt on her knees. It was only then that Jennifer snapped back to her senses. She had knelt on the ground for a full ten minutes, so deeply engrossed in saving a life that she hadn't noticed these trivial details. Now, she realized that her knees were not only dirty but also grazed. "Ouch..." she murmured. "Be gentle." Maxwell said softly, "Bear with it." As he resumed with his head bowed, a strange emotion began to stir in Jennifer's heart. Her knees really hurt, but she felt warm inside. After cleaning the dirt, Maxwell stood up and said, "Your knees are injured. Do you want to go to the hospital to get them bandaged?" Jennifer smiled and casually brushed it off. "There's no need. A band-aid will do for this small injury. Let's go home quickly. Grandpa is waiting for us for dinner!" Then, she started walking toward where he parked the car. Maxwell followed silently, thinking that if Rachel had been in this situation, she probably would have long thrown herself into his arms and wailed. Maxwell felt like he had seen a different side of Jennifer when witnessing her save a life just now. He even felt a hint of pride. Anyway, Jennifer was still his wife. … During dinner, Jennifer ate quite a bit because she was in a good mood. Just then, the housekeeper brought two bowls of tonic to their table. Maxwell wrinkled his nose at the strong smell of medicine and asked, "Grandpa, what is this?" "Aren't you two planning on giving me a great-grandchild after two years of marriage?" Robert chuckled. "This tonic is from a renowned traditional medicine doctor in Haven City. It's very nourishing. From now on, both you and Jennifer will have one bowl each until she conceives." "What?" Maxwell looked at the bowl of tonic speechlessly and then glanced at Jennifer. She also had a conflicted expression, not knowing what to do. Robert urged, "What are you waiting for? Drink up!" Maxwell couldn't force himself to drink it. The smell alone was unbearable. Jennifer thought for a moment before saying to Robert, "Grandpa, we're still young, and there's nothing wrong with us. Isn't it too soon to drink this tonic now?" MMaxwell quickly agreed, "Yeah, it's not like we're incapable. Do we really need to drink this now?" Robert scolded, "Nonsense!" The men in the Lance family were all robust and healthy. How could they possibly suffer from incapablity? To appease Robert, Maxwell compromised. "Grandpa, why not let us try on our own first? If it doesn't work, we can consider taking the tonic." Jennifer gaped at him. Try on their own? How? After contemplating for a while, Robert said, "You'd better not disobey me. If you dare mistreat Jennifer under my nose and make her live like a widow, I'll punish you severely!" Maxwell was speechless again. What did he mean by living like a widow? … Back in the bedroom, Maxwell started laying out the blankets on the floor again. Jennifer couldn't bear to see this. It just didn't seem right for an influential man like him to sleep on the floor. She spoke softly, "Why don't you sleep on the bed? It's big enough to maintain a safe distance." Maxwell paused, glanced at her, and continued his task. He said calmly, "You don't need to take Grandpa's words to heart. I won't tie you down with a child if I can't give you a future." Jennifer's eyes dimmed, a trace of bitterness rising in her heart. She murmured, "I just wanted you to sleep better. You kept messaging your neck just now." "It's nothing." Maxwell returned to his usual coldness. He finished laying out the blankets and went into the bathroom. Not long after, the phone he had left by the pillow rang. Because their phones were the same brand, the ringtone was also the same. Jennifer mistakenly picked it up as her own. It wasn't until Rachel's coquettish voice came from the other end did she realize she had picked up Maxwell's phone. "Max, where are you? I have a fever. I feel terrible... I miss you so much..." Jennifer rolled her eyes and stated curtly, "It's me." "You..." Rachel froze for some time before asking, "Why do you have Max's phone?" Jennifer retorted, "Why wouldn't I have my husband's phone? Your call has disturbed our rest. If you have a fever, go see a doctor. Maxwell doesn't know how to treat illnesses!" She shut down the conversation, tossing the phone aside. Maxwell finished his shower, and Jennifer went in to take her turn. When she came out, Maxwell seemed to have just hung up the phone. He looked at her with a grim expression. "Did you answer my phone just now?" Jennifer knew that Rachel wouldn't give up easily and would definitely call him a second time. She calmly leveled his gaze and replied, "Yes. What's the matter?" Maxwell said bitterly, "Rachel's grandmother passed away, and you didn't tell me about it. Jennifer, I thought you were kind when I saw you save a life today. But I didn't expect you to be more malicious than I imagined. How could you have the heart to insult someone who just lost their loved one?" "Her grandmother passed away?" Jennifer said confusedly, "How would I know about that? She only said she had a fever. She didn't say anything about her grandmother!" "Enough!" Maxwell interrupted her impatiently, hastily putting on his clothes and storming out. After he left, Jennifer suddenly felt freezing. The joy of saving someone earlier had disappeared in an instant. She smiled self-deprecatingly and folded the blankets on the floor. He probably wouldn't be coming back for the night.	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1,915,412	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1915486}'	No	2024-07-08 20:07	active	1089	443156045194570	Read more	Upon awakening, she realizes she has reincarnated as a useless girl madly in love with her husband. However, her husband despises her and wishes for her demise. With determination, she firmly divorces him, vowing to make those who hurt her pay the price!<br /> =====<br /> "Rachel, you fking bch. GO TO HELL!"<br /> On the king-size bed, the man's face was a mask of fury, his black eyes burning with hate. The veins stood out on his forehead and his arms as he wrung the woman's slender neck.<br /> The woman was still half-asleep, but she could feel something was wrong. She couldn't breathe!<br /> She groggily opened her eyes, seeing the man in front of her was strangling her neck tightly, choking the life out of her. <br /> <br /> On top of the pain she already felt, she could feel a terrible headache coming on. Memories that didn't belong to her started flooding her senses.<br /> <br /> She had been reborn, from Shelia Davis to Rachel Bennet.<br /> <br /> As Rachel Bennet's lungs started screaming for air, her survival instinct kicked in. She raised her hands to her throat, trying to fend off her attacker.<br /> <br /> But the man wouldn't budge. <br /> <br /> Bam!<br /> <br /> The door was thrown open and the butler rushed in. His face paled at the sight before him, but he didn't lose a minute. <br /> <br /> He hurried to the bed and grabbed the man's arm, shouting, "Mr. Sullivan! Mr. Sullivan! Please let go of her! You're killing her!"<br /> <br /> "She deserves to die!" The man had an unhinged look in his eyes and spit came out of his mouth along with his words.<br /> <br /> The butler knew that couldn't stop the man physically, so he knelt by the bed and started begging for Rachel's life. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, please! If you kill her, your grandma will roll over in her grave. She won't be able to rest in peace!"<br /> <br /> Grandma?<br /> <br /> Hearing the butler's words, Victor Sullivan loosened his grip slightly.<br /> <br /> Rachel grabbed the opportunity to escape his grasp and crawl away. Her back hit the headboard and she stayed there curled in a ball, looking at Victor with wide, fearful eyes.<br /> <br /> The butler saw the change in Victor's attitude as a sign to keep pushing. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, be patient! Today your divorce will become official. You will never see her again! Spare her life for her mother's sake. Her mother once saved your grandma, remember? Please calm down!"<br /> <br /> Victor seemed to see the reason behind his butler's words. He got out of bed, put on his pajamas in silence. When he was done, he turned around and spoke, in a voice cold as ice.<br /> <br /> "I'll tell Ivan to send the divorce papers here. Sign it and then get the hell out. I don't want to see your face ever again."<br /> <br /> With a final look filled with hatred, he left the room, followed by the butler.<br /> <br /> The door slammed behind him, the sound hurting Rachel's ears. She covered herself with the bedcovers, still in shock. Her face was deathly pale, her heart fluttering in her chest.<br /> <br /> The adrenaline coursing through her veins had dulled the pain until now. But when the worst had passed, Rachel felt that her entire body was sore. She hurt everywhere.<br /> <br /> Rachel couldn't find any women's clothes in the closet. It contained only men's shirts and black suits.<br /> <br /> She grabbed a shirt and a pair of suit pants and put them on. The pants were ridiculously large for her, dragging on the ground.<br /> <br /> Rachel slowly walked to the sofa and sat down. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes. <br /> <br /> After quietly sorting things out in her mind, she finally came to two conclusions.<br /> <br /> She really had been reborn.<br /> <br /> The one inhabiting this body was a worthless girl madly in love with Victor. Her mother had gotten sick and died a while ago and her father was a pathetic scumbag.<br /> <br /> There was a knock on the door.<br /> <br /> The sound startled Rachel out of her reverie. A cold voice came from the other side of the door. "May I come in?"<br /> <br /> She hastily rolled up the bottom of the pants and hurried to open the door. A tall and dull-looking man stood there, holding a stack of papers in his hand.<br /> <br /> "Ivan." Rachel quickly searched her memories and retrieved the man's name.<br /> <br /> His face expressionless, Ivan Chavez handed her the documents and a pen. "Mr. Sullivan asked me to see you out. As soon as you sign the divorce papers."<br /> <br /> Rachel glanced at the documents, recalling what the butler had said earlier. Today was the second wedding anniversary of Victor and Rachel, but from now on, it would also be the end of their marriage.<br /> <br /> Was the divorce agreement cooked up in less than an hour? Victor must really hate Rachel.<br /> <br /> She took the agreement and started turning pages, signing "Rachel Bennet" neatly wherever it was necessary. She was done in less than thirty seconds.<br /> <br /> "There you go," Rachel said, as she returned the papers to Ivan and clicked the pen.<br /> <br /> Ivan looked at her in astonishment, eyebrows raised. He didn't expect it to be so easy. When Victor asked him to bring over the agreement, he told Ivan that Rachel didn't want to sign it, so he might have to use force.<br /> <br /> "Don't you want to read it first?" Ivan said, still not reaching out to take the papers.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows and replied flatly, "No."<br /> <br /> "Aren't you curious about what you are getting out of this divorce?" Ivan was frowning now, looking more and more confused.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows while hitching up her pants. She flashed Ivan a smile. "There is no need to read it. I know that there are two possible outcomes. One is that I am in a world of debt and go bankrupt soon, and the other is that I have to leave this marriage without a penny. I am sure Victor put together a team of exceptional lawyers to work on the best option for him."<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes darkened. He took the divorce papers and said, "Mr. Sullivan just wants you to walk away without getting any of his assets."<br /> <br /> "Well, make sure you thank him on my behalf." Rachel really didn't give a shit about it at all. It was this body's former occupant that loved Victor, not her. She didn't even care if the man lived or died.<br /> <br /> She didn't want a violent man like him for a husband. A man that would strangle his own wife to death. She now had another chance to live and she intended to make the best of it.<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes fell on Rachel's neck.<br /> <br /> "Would you like me to call a doctor for you?"<br /> <br /> Rachel was at a loss for a moment. Then she remembered the bruises around her neck and raised her hand to touch them. The feeling of suffocation came back to her and she had to shake her head to get rid of it.<br /> <br /> "No, thanks. I'm fine. It's not that bad," she replied, shrugging.<br /> <br /> "Then please pack your things." Ivan's tone was back to normal: cold and businesslike.<br /> <br /> She nodded and left Victor's bedroom barefoot, still pulling up her pants. She had a long way to go to reach her own bedroom. Victor hated Rachel so much that he didn't even want to bump into her in the corridor, so her room was all the way to the other side of the huge house.<br /> <br /> It took her nearly two minutes to get there.<br /> <br /> Her bedroom had originally been a storage room, but soon after Rachel and Victor's wedding, Rachel moved in here. She pushed the door open and walked through the narrow doorway nimbly.<br /> <br /> The room was really small. It only contained a bed and a dressing table, the furniture was so close together that there was no room to walk around properly.<br /> <br /> Rachel didn't have much to pack. Except for her cosmetics strewn all over the dressing table and a few clothes, she didn't have much else. She changed into her own clothes and stuffed the rest of her things into a suitcase.<br /> <br /> "Okay, I'm all packed. I'm leaving now. I hope I will never see you again, Ivan! Goodbye!" Rachel said in a carefree, cool voice as she dragged her suitcase across the hall.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, where do you think you are going?" Suddenly, the elevator doors slid open, revealing a woman in a business suit. Her high heels clicked on the marble floor, the sound crisp and curt, matching her sharp voice perfectly.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Alice Gave Her A Hard Time<br /> Rachel stopped to look at the woman approaching her.<br /> <br /> "Alice?" Alice Jenkins was her half-sister, a veritable two-faced bch.<br /> <br /> As she stood in front of Rachel, Alice grinned. "My dear sister, are you moving out?"<br /> <br /> Rachel rolled her eyes at her, and put on a fake smile. "It's been so long since we last saw each other. Why do you still like asking dumb questions so much? "<br /> <br /> Her remark left Alice livid. But she soon suppressed her anger, changing into an innocent expression again.<br /> <br /> "I'm just trying to show you some concern. How can you think of me that way?"<br /> <br /> Concern?<br /> <br /> Tha was funny. She just wanted to mock her.<br /> <br /> With a face devoid of emotion, Ivan intervened in their conversation. He reminded Rachel, "Mrs. Sullivan, it's time for you to leave. Mr. Sullivan is about to come back."<br /> <br /> The corners of her mouth twitched. She pointed at Alice and said to Ivan, "It's not that I don't want to leave; it's just that there's a mad dog blocking my path. I'm afraid that she'll bite me."<br /> <br /> Ivan was rendered speechless.<br /> <br /> Alice began to shed crocodile tears. "Rachel, I know you're getting divorced today. I was really worried that you'll be sad, so I left my work early to come to see you. How... How could you say that to me? I'm your sister."<br /> <br /> "Shut up! I don't have a dog for a sister." Rachel quickly distanced herself from Alice, and turned to Ivan again. "Ivan, shall we?"<br /> <br /> His temples began to ache, and he failed to maintain his stern expression for a moment. Left with no other choice, he said to Alice, "Miss Jenkins, please excuse us."<br /> <br /> Alice bit her lower lip. Her eyes were fiery with rage at this moment, but they were covered by her bangs.<br /> <br /> "Ivan, an untrained dog cannot comprehend human language," Rachel said to taunt her.<br /> <br /> That remark made Alice fume with rage. She clenched her fists, and glared at Rachel.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing Alice restrain her anger, Rachel tilted her head a little, smiling to vex Alice even more.<br /> <br /> The arrogant smile on Rachel's face annoyed Alice.<br /> <br /> 'What the hell is going on? Rachel is usually timid, and she's always obedient and grateful to me. Why did her personality turn upside down?'<br /> <br /> "Miss Jenkins," Ivan called out; his voice held a hint of impatience.<br /> <br /> Alice pressed her lips, hiding her suspicions. "Ivan, I'm not implying that I don't want my sister to leave. It's just that Victor asked me to see how things are going here."<br /> <br /> Both Ivan and Rachel were surprised to hear that.<br /> <br /> "Victor knew that I was coming here, so he specifically told me to watch Rachel pack up and leave. He said that according to the divorce agreement, Rachel wasn't allowed to take anything that belongs to the Sullivan family. I'm just here to make sure she upholds the agreement." Alice looked at the suitcase beside Rachel.<br /> <br /> "So, Rachel, could you please open your suitcase? I need to check if you took anything that doesn't belong to you."<br /> <br /> Rachel frowned at that. "It only contains a few clothes. I didn't take anything that belongs to the Sullivans!"<br /> <br /> Alice grabbed the suitcase from her and said, "I'm afraid it's not up to you to decide. If you didn't take anything inappropriate with you, why are you so afraid of letting me see the contents of your suitcase?"<br /> <br /> After that, she laid the suitcase on the ground and opened it.<br /> <br /> Inside it, several clothes had been piled up in a mess. It seemed that Rachel really didn't take anything valuable with her.<br /> <br /> Alice gritted her teeth. She didn't expect that Rachel was telling the truth. Unwilling to let her go so easily, Alice rummaged through the clothes. It was as if she wasn't going to stop until she had found a piece of evidence that could prove Rachel had stolen something from the Sullivans.<br /> <br /> The only contents of the suitcase were Rachel's clothes and cosmetics, and yet Alice kept rummaging through the suitcase for over ten minutes.<br /> <br /> "Are you done checking?" Rachel glanced down at Alice.<br /> <br /> "I'm just following Victor's orders. It's better to check thoroughly," Alice replied softly.<br /> <br /> "Fine. Go ahead and check those clothes for as long as you want. I don't want them anymore." Rachel shook her head. The bruises on her body still hadn't healed yet. She really didn't want to waste any more time with Alice, and she didn't want to wait for Victor to come back and try to strangle her again.<br /> <br /> Now that she had said her piece, Rachel walked past Alice and towards the elevator and pushed the button. Ivan followed suit.<br /> <br /> Ding!<br /> <br /> Before long, the elevator arrived at the third floor. The sliding doors opened slowly. Just before Rachel could walk in, she suddenly felt a chill. The temperature around her dropped several degrees, making her shiver and stop in her tracks.<br /> <br /> The first thing she saw was a pair of shiny leather shoes. When she raised her head, she caught sight of Victor's aloof face.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan." Ivan was the first to react, bowing his head respectfully.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, it seems that you've forgotten what I told you this morning." There was a flash of warning in Victor's eyes, and he sounded ill-tempered.<br /> <br /> The second she saw him, Rachel thought of how Victor choked her this morning. She trembled with fear, wary of what he might do to her.<br /> <br /> Standing in attention, she said, "No, I remember."<br /> <br /> "Oh, you do? Then why the hell are you still here?" Victor asked, striding towards her.<br /> <br /> Rachel kept pacing backwards until her back was against the wall. She closed her eyes for a second and then braced herself to look into his eyes.<br /> <br /> "You should ask Alice. I was about to leave, but she appeared out of nowhere and delayed me. That's why I..."<br /> <br /> Rachel was half-way to finishing her explanation when Alice suddenly interrupted her.<br /> <br /> "How could you lie like that?" she asked with tearful eyes.<br /> <br /> "I'm not lying!" At this moment, Rachel was cursing Alice in her head. If it weren't for this woman, she would've left an hour ago, and she wouldn't have run into Victor.<br /> <br /> Damn it.<br /> <br /> As if she was about to break into tears, Alice said, "Victor, I didn't mean to delay Rachel's departure. I was just following your orders to check her luggage. I'm afraid that she'll steal your stuff. My sister revels in lying. I didn't expect that she'd lie again this time."<br /> <br /> Alice's words reminded Victor of everything that Rachel had done, making him look more sullen than usual. "Do you honestly think I won't try to kill you?"<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, he strangled Rachel with his hand, slamming her head against the wall. She didn't see that coming, but she managed to grab Victor's hand instinctively. The pain coming from the back of her head made her dizzy.<br /> <br /> "Vic... Victor!" Rachel called out with difficulty.<br /> <br /> "How dare you test my patience over and over?" said Victor.<br /> <br /> With every passing second, Rachel was losing her consciousness. She couldn't break free from Victor's grasp at all.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing the situation, Ivan decided to intervene. He hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Mr. Sullivan, if something happens to Mrs. Sullivan, those bastards in the board of directors will use that against you. If that happens, your plan of concentrating equity will be hampered."<br /> <br /> "Fk off!" Victor roared. His fingers that were gripping Rachel's neck turned pale because of how strong he was gripping her.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 I Will Haunt You Forever<br /> As much as he worried about Rachel, Ivan didn't dare to talk back to Victor again.<br /> <br /> She didn't want to die.<br /> <br /> She used the last of her strength to push Victor's hand away. Once she was able to catch her breath a little, she stared at him; her eyes turning red.<br /> <br /> "If I die here and now, then I will die as your wife; still a member of the Sullivans. Someday, when you die, you will be buried next to me, and I will haunt you beyond the afterlife!"<br /> <br /> Rachel said those words with difficulty; her face had turned red due to the suffocation. Gradually, Rachel had no strength to struggle. Little by little, she could feel her consciousness slipping.<br /> <br /> "Who do you think you are? You don't deserve to be buried in my family's mausoleum." Victor sounded indifferent. "If you die, I'll cremate your body and throw the ashes into a bin. A woman like you deserves to rest with the rubbish!"<br /> <br /> Rachel burst into laughter.<br /> <br /> "Why are you laughing?" Victor asked.<br /> <br /> "Even if you throw my ashes into a bin, it won't change the fact that I'm your legal wife, and I'm part of your family tree. You loathe me, don't you? Sorry, but you'll never get rid of me, even if I die!"<br /> <br /> Victor stared daggers at her as he strengthened his grip, lifting her in midair. Consequently, Rachel yelped in pain, and tears rolled down her cheeks.<br /> <br /> Just when she was hallucinating of the shameless couple in her previous life, Victor suddenly let go of her.<br /> <br /> Rachel fell to the ground. She felt like every bone in her body had been broken, and even the slightest movement made her groan in pain.<br /> <br /> "Ahem! Ahem!" She coughed violently and gasped for air, breathing with so much difficulty.<br /> <br /> Ivan glanced at Rachel indifferently and lowered his head. "Mr. Sullivan, it's all my fault. I didn't urge her to leave in time. I'm willing to suffer the consequences."<br /> <br /> Alice turned pale with fear as she watched Victor beat up Rachel. She got down on her knees and begged, "Victor, I... This is my fault! I didn't check Rachel's suitcase faster. That's why she had the opportunity to lie and buy time for herself."<br /> <br /> Rachel could feel her chest tightening as she coughed over and over.<br /> <br /> "I didn't take anything that belongs to you," she said in a hoarse voice.<br /> <br /> Victor took out some wet wipes to clean his hand that had touched Rachel's neck. Disgust was evident on his face.<br /> <br /> "You didn't take anything? You bought all your clothes using my money. How dare you say that you didn't take my stuff?"<br /> <br /> Rachel pursed her lips, unable to refute his logic. On her wedding day, Alice had burned all the clothes that Rachel had bought herself. Alice said that her clothes were too vulgar, and Victor probably wouldn't want to see her wearing them.<br /> <br /> "Take off her clothes and throw her out!" After saying that, Victor left along with Ivan without hesitation.<br /> <br /> Only when those two had left did Alice get up and walk towards Rachel. Her previous ostensibly tenderness had now disappeared.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, you married Victor and slept with him, but so what? In the end, he kicked you out! You wanted to make him fall in love with you, didn't you? That's never going to happen! Do you really think I asked you to wear heavy makeup and put on weight because Victor likes it? This is hilarious. I can't believe you actually fell for that. No man will ever like a fat and idiotic woman like you! I was messing with you. I just wanted to make him hate you even more!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's face turned ghastly pale. When she heard what Alice said, she didn't even look at her. She was indifferent to Alice's words and did not seem to hear her provocation.<br /> <br /> Seeing that Rachel wasn't responding, Alice gritted her teeth in anger. "Why are you looking at me like that?"<br /> <br /> "Huh! You're so pathetic." Rachel chuckled, trying to endure the pain.<br /> <br /> She was sure that she had suffered an internal injury. Just the act of talking was painful enough to make her feel like her organs were being twisted together.<br /> <br /> But she couldn't afford to show any sign of weakness. Otherwise, Alice would revel in torturing her. Evil was in that woman's nature.<br /> <br /> "What did you say?" Alice's eyes widened in surprise. When Rachel sneered at her, she was goaded.<br /> <br /> "I said," Rachel took a deep breath to alleviate the pain in her chest. "You are living a miserable, ridiculous life. You're the most pathetic person I've ever met! Being called a bastard must make you feel inferior, doesn't it? You've been trying your best to steal everything I had since we were kids, because I'm the Bennet family's legitimate daughter, and you're just a dirty little bastard. You are always unpresentable!"<br /> <br /> "Bch! Shut the fk up!" Alice screamed. It seemed that Rachel had struck a sore spot.<br /> <br /> Rachel grinned and continued, "These past two years, I trusted you, and yet you deceived me by taking advantage of my desire to draw Victor's attention. You fooled me into doing stupid things in front of him, so that he would loathe me. At first, he didn't feel anything for me, and then he began to hate me. And now, he's too disgusted to even lay eyes on me. You must be proud of this accomplishment, aren't you?"<br /> <br /> Alice clenched her fists, looking at Rachel with hatred. "Well, you should blame yourself for being so stupid!"<br /> <br /> "You're right. I was stupid," Rachel admitted. Right now, she felt ashamed for what she had done in the past two years.<br /> <br /> Despite being the daughter of a rich and powerful family, she had lived a pathetic life. How did she end up this way?<br /> <br /> "You have a clear estimation of yourself." The look on Alice's face made it seem like she was the winner between them.<br /> <br /> "I almost died, and that's enough to wake me up. I'm not stupid like you after all." Rachel wanted to make sure that she didn't have any broken bones, so she propped herself up using her hands. However, the pain was far too much for her to bear, so she fell down once more.<br /> <br /> Sweat dripped down her forehead as she groaned in pain; her hands, pressing against the hard floor. The veins on the back of her hands were bulging because she was exerting every ounce of strength she could muster.<br /> <br /> Alice's face turned grim.<br /> <br /> "Your end is near, Rachel. How dare you talk to me like that? Remember, you are no longer Victor's wife, and are therefore no longer part of the Sullivan family! His grandmother is dead now, so there's no one left to protect you! If you have a brain in that empty head of yours, you should kneel down and beg me to persuade our father to allow you to go home!"<br /> <br /> When Alice mentioned Victor's grandmother, a faraway look appeared on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Victor's grandmother was the one who chose Rachel to be his wife. Not long after she married into the Sullivan family, the old lady died of illness. His grandmother used to be Rachel's protector when she was still alive. During that time, Rachel lived a dignified life within the Sullivan family's residence.<br /> <br /> "Do you think you'll be able to marry Victor and share the Sullivan Group with him after I divorce him?"<br /> <br /> Upon hearing that, Alice stood proudly. "You were able to do it, so I probably can as well."<br /> <br /> "You can't," Rachel said in a weak, yet firm tone. "Why are you so confident that Victor will agree to marry you? Just because he's also an illegitimate child, you think you're good enough to be his wife?<br /> <br /> Your mother is a mistress; a home-wrecker! Unlike you, Victor was born before his father even got married. And his mother never destroyed the man's marriage later!<br /> <br /> With that being said, you will never deserve to be Victor's wife," said Rachel.<br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Will And Testament<br /> Alice's fingernails were digging into her palms, and her chest was heaving up and down due to the anger she was feeling.<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, she pulled Rachel up and slapped her face.<br /> <br /> The slap left a palm print on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Blood oozed from the corner of her mouth. Obviously, Alice didn't hold back when she slapped Rachel.<br /> <br /> Gnashing her teeth, Alice said to the servants, "You two, hold her up!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's vision was fading because of how hard she had gotten hit. The servants didn't dawdle, and they immediately followed Alice's command. Each of them held one of Rachel's arms to restrict her.<br /> <br /> With a murderous gaze, Alice clasped Rachel's chin, forcing her to raise her head.<br /> <br /> The imprint of an open hand was evident on the right side of her face; it was red and swollen. Once more, Alice raised her hand and snarled, "You're quite glib, aren't you? Say something again, I dare you!"<br /> <br /> "Alice, do you know what my life motto is?" Rachel spat out a mouthful of blood, trying her best to keep her eyes open. Her almond-shaped eyes looked as cold as ice. Her steely gaze was enough to intimidate people.<br /> <br /> "Ten eyes for an eye, and ten teeth for a single tooth," Rachel sneered. "As long as I live and breathe, I will hunt you down to the ends of the earth, and I will make you suffer for what you've done to me today!"<br /> <br /> For a moment, Alice was startled by her gaze, but she soon came to her senses.<br /> <br /> "Don't try to frighten me with that threat! Do you think a loser like you could scare me?" she said through gritted teeth.<br /> <br /> Right after she said that, Alice hit Rachel's face until it swelled up.<br /> <br /> Her anger was finally quenched when she got tired. She looked at Rachel dead in the eyes and said to the servants, "Didn't you hear Mr. Sullivan earlier?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, ma'am. He ordered us to remove her clothes and throw her out," a servant said, lowering her gaze.<br /> <br /> Alice massaged her sore wrist, smiling with satisfaction before she decided to strut away.<br /> <br /> Before long, the servants stripped Rachel down to her pelt, leaving only a set of silk underwear to cover her naked body.<br /> <br /> Unable to resist, Rachel closed her eyes and gave up struggling. She just let them do whatever they wanted to her.<br /> <br /> She knew very well that her survival was now the most important thing.<br /> <br /> The servants supported her on each side as they walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> After all, Rachel was once Victor's wife. Even though the servants loathed her, they still didn't want to bear witness to her embarrassment. Along the way, she didn't see anyone else besides the maids who were escorting her.<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, the butler knocked on the door of the study.<br /> <br /> "Come in," said Victor.<br /> <br /> The butler entered the room and said to him, "Mr. Sullivan, Mrs-Ms. Bennet had been thrown out as you've commanded."<br /> <br /> Victor was currently reading a contract, so he didn't raise his head when he replied, "Did she say anything?"<br /> <br /> "No," said the butler.<br /> <br /> With a snort, Victor thought of what Rachel had said earlier. His eyes brimmed with cruelty as he shut the folder and ordered, "Tell them to throw that bch as far as they can. Don't let that woman disgrace my doorstep."<br /> <br /> The butler was shocked to hear that. "Yes, sir," he answered reluctantly.<br /> <br /> Inside a cramped basement somewhere south of the city...<br /> <br /> "No!" Rachel suddenly woke up, sitting upright and screaming. She was breathing heavily and looking ahead in horror.<br /> <br /> Just then, someone pushed the door open from outside. Seeing that she was awake, the man set aside the medicine he had prepared and walked to the bed.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, you're finally awake," he said with concern.<br /> <br /> Rachel looked at him vigilantly, calming down at once. She tried to recall the man's name, because he looked familiar. However, she couldn't remember who he was at the moment.<br /> <br /> She looked down at her body and remembered that she had been thrown out of Victor's house; half-naked and almost dying. But now, she was still alive, sitting here in a tacky yet neat floral shirt with matching pants.<br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Rachel's voice was hoarse, and it seemed like she was wary of him.<br /> <br /> "We've met before, but you were still a child back then. It's normal that you don't remember me. I'm Andy Torres, your mother's private lawyer." The man smiled at her.<br /> <br /> 'Andy? Mom's lawyer?'<br /> <br /> Rachel remembered that her mother did have a lawyer. "Did you save me?"<br /> <br /> "I did. When I called you, a passerby answered the phone and said that you had fainted. But don't worry, I didn't see anything. The man who found you covered you with a coat, and then I carried you to my car and drove you back here," Andy explained.<br /> <br /> "Then, why am I wearing these clothes?"<br /> <br /> "Oh, I asked an old lady who lives next door to change it for you."<br /> <br /> Rachel breathed a sigh of relief, but she still frowned. "You mentioned that you called me. What for?"<br /> <br /> Her mother died when she was 13. Andy said that he was her mother's lawyer, but Rachel hadn't seen him for so many years. It was suspicious that he suddenly showed up this time.<br /> <br /> Andy got up and walked out of the room. Moments later, he returned with a document, and gave it to Rachel.<br /> <br /> "This is your mother's last will and testament," he said.<br /> <br /> "My mother's will?" Doubt filled Rachel's eyes. If she remembered correctly, her mother departed this world so suddenly that she didn't have the time to make a will.<br /> <br /> Otherwise, Rachel's useless father and his mistress wouldn't have been so reckless and high-profile.<br /> <br /> "Yes, she entrusted me to be the witness of her will when she was still alive. She told me to make this will public, and give it to you on your 24th birthday."<br /> <br /> Now that Andy had mentioned that, Rachel remembered that her birthday was the same day of her divorce with Victor.<br /> <br /> "It's clearly stated in this will that you will inherit all of your mother's assets, including fifteen percent of the Bennet Group's shares, and the villa she lived in before she died," Andy continued.<br /> <br /> Rachel turned to the last page and she saw the name "Elisa Bennet" on the bottom right corner of the paper.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Torres, how many days have I been unconscious?" asked Rachel.<br /> <br /> "Three days."<br /> <br /> She then put away the document and got out of bed. "In that case, they've been living comfortably for three more days. That's enough for them."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Rachel walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, where are you going?" asked Andy.<br /> <br /> Rachel stopped at the door, glancing at the will in her hand. She raised her eyebrows and smiled.<br /> <br /> "Where else? I'm going back home and kick out my father, his bch of a mistress, and their daughter!" With that, Rachel opened the door and strode out.<br /> <br /> Andy was taken aback by what she said for a moment. Somehow, he saw a glimpse of Elisa during her youth.<br /> <br /> As he watched Rachel walk away, Andy put on his suit jacket and followed her quickly.<br /> <br /> In the Bennet family's house, in the Riverside Villa District north of the city...<br /> <br /> Rachel and Andy stood in front of the door. They had been ringing the doorbell dozens of times, and yet nobody was answering.<br /> <br /> Annoyed by the constant ringing, finally the housekeeper trotted outside and shouted, "Stop it! Who is there? A debt collector or something? Stop ringing it! You're driving me crazy!"<br /> <br /> Right after she stopped talking, the housekeeper opened the side door and looked at the visitors with a frown. She was stunned to see who they were.<br /> <br /> "You... it's you!" The housekeeper's face turned pale, and a chill ran down her spine because of how intimidating Rachel looked.<br /> <br /> Rachel put on a sardonic smile. "Well, we do have a debt to collect."<br /> <br /> ......<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Her fiance and her best friend worked together and set her up. She lost everything and died in the street. However, she was reborn. <br /> <br /> The moment she opened her eyes, her husband was trying to strangle her. Luckily, she survived that. She signed the divorce agreement without hesitation and was ready for her miserable life. <br /> <br /> To her surprise, her mother in this life left her a great deal of money. She prepared to turn the tables and aveng herself...<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &18&	WATCH_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-x	108394237578957	Fiction books	https://facebook.com/100075615382269	52,573	1	756,258,976,448,011	2024-07-06 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Watch more	Fiction books	120212445761690608	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-xy-0720-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=432604739574735	2024-07-02 04:02	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449682107_301264789648476_1644704775049064737_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4dS1H92SOVUQ7kNvgGlOsAu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCoueL-XGaBZZbMsusIrW6rAN-rWQDmaFN72lzXC8L2UQ&oe=66923D24	person_profile	Fiction books	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449680578_3752903281647297_881832048647343943_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1PdZcOxhw0cQ7kNvgHetY7v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYA7NinJxs9VUposHPT9NAiGOyAKjIlzzlWTvMfD3Vf5hw&oe=66926DEA	3	Fiction books	2024-07-05 02:00	View Edit Delete
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1,915,444	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1915466}'	No	2024-07-08 20:08	active	1089	867923818509811		"Take off her clothes and throw her out! "<br /> <br /> "Tell them to throw that woman as far as they can. Don't let that woman disgrace my doorstep."<br /> <br /> Three days later<br /> <br /> "No!" Rachel suddenly woke up, sitting upright and screaming.<br /> <br /> Just then, someone pushed the door open from outside.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, you're finally awake," he said with concern. <br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Rachel's voice was hoarse. <br /> <br /> "We've met before, but you were still a child back then. It's normal that you don't remember me. I'm Andy Torres, your mother's private lawyer." The man smiled at her. <br /> <br /> 'Andy? Mom's lawyer?'<br /> <br /> "Did you save me?"<br /> <br /> "I did. When I called you, a passerby answered the phone and said that you had fainted."<br /> <br /> "You mentioned that you called me. What for?"<br /> <br /> Andy got up and walked out of the room. Moments later, he returned with a document, and gave it to Rachel. <br /> <br /> "This is your mother's last will and testament," he said. <br /> <br /> "My mother's will?" Doubt filled Rachel's eyes.<br /> <br /> "Yes, she entrusted me to be the witness of her will when she was still alive. She told me to make this will public, and give it to you on your 24th birthday."<br /> <br /> "It's clearly stated in this will that you will inherit all of your mother's assets, including fifteen percent of the Bennet Group's shares, and the villa she lived in before she died," Andy continued. <br /> <br /> Rachel turned to the last page and she saw the name "Elisa Bennet" on the bottom right corner of the paper. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Torres, how many days have I been unconscious?" asked Rachel. <br /> <br /> "Three days."<br /> <br /> She then put away the document and got out of bed. "In that case, they've been living comfortably for three more days. That's enough for them."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Rachel walked towards the door. <br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, where are you going?" asked Andy. <br /> <br /> Rachel stopped at the door, glancing at the will in her hand. She raised her eyebrows and smiled. <br /> <br /> "Where else? I'm going back home and kick out my father, his woman of a mistress, and their daughter!" With that, Rachel opened the door and strode out. <br /> <br /> ---<br /> On the king-size bed, the man's face was a mask of fury, his black eyes burning with hate. The veins stood out on his forehead and his arms as he wrung the woman's slender neck. <br /> <br /> The woman was still half-asleep, but she could feel something was wrong. She couldn't breathe! <br /> <br /> Rachel Bennet opened her eyes wide, still groggy from sleep. She felt a pair of hands on her neck, choking the life out of her. She was confused and consumed by fear and panic. <br /> <br /> As her lungs started screaming for air, her survival instinct kicked in. She raised her hands to her throat, trying to fend off her attacker. <br /> <br /> But the man wouldn't budge. Instead, he tightened his grip on her neck, causing her face to turn a deep red and her vision to blur. <br /> <br /> Bam! <br /> <br /> The door was thrown open and the butler rushed in. His face paled at the sight before him, but he didn't lose a minute. He hurried to the bed and grabbed the man's arm, shouting, "Mr. Sullivan! Mr. Sullivan! Please let go of her! You're killing her!"<br /> <br /> "She deserves to die!" The man had an unhinged look in his eyes and spit came out of his mouth along with his words. <br /> <br /> The butler knew that couldn't stop the man physically, so he knelt by the bed and started begging for Rachel's life. "Mr. Sullivan, please! If you kill her, your grandma will roll over in her grave. She won't be able to rest in peace!"<br /> <br /> Grandma? <br /> <br /> Hearing the butler's words, Victor Sullivan loosened his grip slightly. <br /> <br /> Rachel grabbed the opportunity to escape his grasp and crawl away. Her back hit the headboard and she stayed there curled in a ball, looking at Victor with wide, fearful eyes. <br /> <br /> The butler saw the change in Victor's attitude as a sign to keep pushing. "Mr. Sullivan, be patient! Today your divorce will become official. You will never see Mrs. Sullivan again! Spare her life for her mother’s sake. Her mother once saved your grandma, remember? Please calm down!"<br /> <br /> Victor seemed to see the reason behind his butler's words. He got out of bed, put on his pajamas in silence. When he was done, he turned around and spoke, in a voice cold as ice. <br /> <br /> "I'll tell Ivan to send the divorce papers here. Sign it and then get out. I don't want to see your face ever again."<br /> <br /> With a final look filled with hatred, he left the room, followed by the butler. <br /> <br /> The door slammed behind him, the sound hurting Rachel's ears. She covered herself with the bedcovers, still in shock. Her face was deathly pale, her heart fluttering in her chest. <br /> <br /> She lowered her head and looked at her body. She was completely naked and dark bruises marred her otherwise flawless skin. <br /> <br /> The adrenaline coursing through her veins had dulled the pain until now. But when the worst had passed, Rachel felt that her entire body was sore. She hurt everywhere. <br /> <br /> Rachel couldn't find any women's clothes in the closet. It contained only men's shirts and black suits. <br /> <br /> She grabbed a shirt and a pair of suit pants and put them on. Th e pants were ridiculously large for her, dragging on the ground. <br /> <br /> On top of the pain she already felt, she could feel a terrible headache coming on. Groaning, she walked to the sofa and sat down. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes. Memories that didn't belong to her started flooding her senses. <br /> <br /> Moments later, she opened her eyes again. Those memories belonged to the former owner of this body, the woman named Rachel. After quietly sorting things out in her mind, she finally came to two conclusions. <br /> <br /> She had been reborn, from Shelia Davis to Rachel Bennet. <br /> <br /> The one inhabiting this body before her was a worthless girl madly in love with Victor. Her mother had gotten sick and died a while ago and her father was a pathetic scumbag. <br /> <br /> There was a knock on the door. <br /> <br /> The sound startled Rachel out of her reverie. A cold voice came from the other side of the door. "May I come in?"<br /> <br /> She hastily rolled up the bottom of the pants and hurried to open the door. A tall and dull-looking man stood there, holding a stack of papers in his hand. <br /> <br /> "Ivan." Rachel quickly searched her memories and retrieved the man's name. <br /> <br /> His face expressionless, Ivan Chavez handed her the documents and a pen. "Mr. Sullivan asked me to see you out. As soon as you sign the divorce papers."<br /> <br /> Rachel glanced at the documents, recalling what the butler had said earlier. Today was the second wedding anniversary of Victor and Rachel, but from now on, it would also be the end of their marriage. <br /> <br /> Was the divorce agreement cooked up in less than an hour? Victor must really hate Rachel.<br /> <br /> She took the agreement and started turning pages, signing "Rachel Bennet" neatly wherever it was necessary. She was done in less than thirty seconds. <br /> <br /> "There you go," Rachel said, as she returned the papers to Ivan and clicked the pen. <br /> <br /> Ivan looked at her in astonishment, eyebrows raised. He didn't expect it to be so easy. When Victor asked him to bring over the agreement, he told Ivan that Rachel didn't want to sign it, so he might have to use force. <br /> <br /> "Don't you want to read it first?" Ivan said, still not reaching out to take the papers. <br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows and replied flatly, "No."<br /> <br /> "Aren't you curious about what you are getting out of this divorce?" Ivan was frowning now, looking more and more confused. <br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows while hitching up her pants. She flashed Ivan a smile. "There is no need to read it. I know that there are two possible outcomes. One is that I am in a world of debt and go bankrupt soon, and the other is that I have to leave this marriage without a penny. I am sure Victor put together a team of exceptional lawyers to work on the best option for him."<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes darkened. He took the divorce papers and said, "Mr. Sullivan just wants you to walk away without getting any of his assets."<br /> <br /> "Well, make sure you thank him on my behalf." Rachel really didn't give a shit about it at all. It was this body's former occupant that loved Victor, not her. She didn't even care if the man lived or died. <br /> <br /> She didn't want a violent man like him for a husband. A man that would strangle his own wife to death. She now had another chance to live and she intended to make the best of it. <br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes fell on Rachel's neck. <br /> <br /> "Would you like me to call a doctor for you?"<br /> <br /> Rachel was at a loss for a moment. Then she remembered the bruises around her neck and raised her hand to touch them. The feeling of suffocation came back to her and she had to shake her head to get rid of it. <br /> <br /> "No, thanks. I'm fine. It's not that bad," she replied, shrugging. <br /> <br /> "Then please pack your things." Ivan's tone was back to normal: cold and businesslike. <br /> <br /> She nodded and left Victor's bedroom barefoot, still pulling up her pants. She had a long way to go to reach her own bedroom. Victor hated Rachel so much that he didn't even want to bump into her in the corridor, so her room was all the way to the other side of the huge house. <br /> <br /> It took her nearly two minutes to get there. <br /> <br /> Her bedroom had originally been a storage room, but soon after Rachel and Victor's wedding, Rachel moved in here. She pushed the door open and walked through the narrow doorway nimbly. <br /> <br /> The room was really small. It only contained a bed and a dressing table, the furniture was so close together that there was no room to walk around properly. <br /> <br /> Rachel didn't have much to pack. Except for her cosmetics strewn all over the dressing table and a few clothes, she didn't have much else. She changed into her own clothes and stuffed the rest of her things into a suitcase. <br /> <br /> "Okay, I'm all packed. I'm leaving now. I hope I will never see you again, Ivan! Goodbye!" Rachel said in a carefree, cool voice as she dragged her suitcase across the hall. <br /> <br /> "Rachel, where do you think you are going?" Suddenly, the elevator doors slid open, revealing a woman in a business suit. Her high heels clicked on the marble floor, the sound crisp and curt, matching her sharp voice perfectly. <br /> <br /> Rachel stopped to look at the woman approaching her. <br /> <br /> "Alice?" <br /> <br /> Alice Jenkins was her half-sister, a veritable two-faced woman. <br /> <br /> As she stood in front of Rachel, Alice grinned. "My dear sister, are you moving out?"<br /> <br /> Rachel rolled her eyes at her, and put on a fake smile. "It's been so long since we last saw each other. Why do you still like asking dumb questions so much? Does a bear shit in the woods?"<br /> <br /> Her remark left Alice livid. But she soon suppressed her anger, changing into an innocent expression again. <br /> <br /> "I'm just trying to show you some concern. How can you think of me that way?"<br /> <br /> 'Concern? <br /> <br /> That's funny. You just want to mock me, ' Rachel thought. <br /> <br /> With a face devoid of emotion, Ivan intervened in their conversation. He reminded Rachel, "Mrs. Sullivan, it's time for you to leave. Mr. Sullivan is about to come back."<br /> <br /> The corners of her mouth twitched. She pointed at Alice and said to Ivan, "It's not that I don't want to leave; it's just that there's a mad dog blocking my path. I'm afraid that she'll bite me."<br /> <br /> Ivan was rendered speechless. <br /> <br /> Alice began to shed crocodile tears. "Rachel, I know you're getting divorced today. I was really worried that you'll be sad, so I left my work early to come to see you. How... How could you say that to me? I'm your sister."<br /> <br /> "shut up! I don't have a dog for a sister." Rachel quickly distanced herself from Alice, and turned to Ivan again. "Ivan, shall we?"<br /> <br /> His temples began to ache, and he failed to maintain his stern expression for a moment. Left with no other choice, he said to Alice, "Miss Jenkins, please excuse us."<br /> <br /> Alice bit her lower lip. Her eyes were fiery with rage at this moment, but they were covered by her bangs. <br /> <br /> "Ivan, an untrained dog cannot comprehend human language," Rachel said to taunt her. <br /> <br /> That remark made Alice fume with rage. She clenched her fists, and glared at Rachel. <br /> <br /> Upon seeing Alice restrain her anger, Rachel tilted her head a little, smiling to vex Alice even more. <br /> <br /> The arrogant smile on Rachel's face annoyed Alice. <br /> <br /> 'What is going on? Rachel is usually timid, and she's always obedient and grateful to me. Why did her personality turn upside down?'<br /> <br /> "Miss Jenkins," Ivan called out; his voice held a hint of impatience. <br /> <br /> Alice pressed her lips, hiding her suspicions. "Ivan, I'm not implying that I don't want my sister to leave. It's just that Victor asked me to see how things are going here."<br /> <br /> Both Ivan and Rachel were surprised to hear that. <br /> <br /> "Victor knew that I was coming here, so he specifically told me to watch Rachel pack up and leave. He said that according to the divorce agreement, Rachel wasn't allowed to take anything that belongs to the Sullivan family. I'm just here to make sure she upholds the agreement." Alice looked at the suitcase beside Rachel. <br /> <br /> "So, Rachel, could you please open your suitcase? I need to check if you took anything that doesn't belong to you."<br /> <br /> Rachel frowned at that. "It only contains a few clothes. I didn't take anything that belongs to the Sullivan family!"<br /> <br /> Alice grabbed the suitcase from her and said, "I'm afraid it's not up to you to decide. If you didn't take anything inappropriate with you, why are you so afraid of letting me see the contents of your suitcase?"<br /> <br /> After that, she laid the suitcase on the ground and opened it. <br /> <br /> Inside it, several clothes had been piled up in a mess. It seemed that Rachel really didn't take anything valuable with her. <br /> <br /> Alice gritted her teeth. She didn't expect that Rachel was telling the truth. Unwilling to let her go so easily, Alice rummaged through the clothes. It was as if she wasn't going to stop until she had found a piece of evidence that could prove Rachel had stolen something from the Sullivans. <br /> <br /> The only contents of the suitcase were Rachel's clothes and cosmetics, and yet Alice kept rummaging through the suitcase for over ten minutes. <br /> <br /> "Are you done checking?" Rachel glanced down at Alice. <br /> <br /> "I'm just following Victor's orders. It's better to check thoroughly," Alice replied softly. <br /> <br /> "Fine. Go ahead and check those clothes for as long as you want. I don't want them anymore." Rachel shook her head. The bruises on her body still hadn't healed yet. She really didn't want to waste any more time with Alice, and she didn't want to wait for Victor to come back and try to strangle her again. <br /> <br /> Now that she had said her piece, Rachel walked past Alice and towards the elevator and pushed the button. Ivan followed suit. <br /> <br /> Ding! <br /> <br /> Before long, the elevator arrived at the third floor. The sliding doors opened slowly. Just before Rachel could walk in, she suddenly felt a chill. The temperature around her dropped several degrees, making her shiver and stop in her tracks. <br /> <br /> The first thing she saw was a pair of shiny leather shoes. When she raised her head, she caught sight of Victor's aloof face. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan." Ivan was the first to react, bowing his head respectfully. <br /> <br /> "Rachel, it seems that you've forgotten what I told you this morning." There was a flash of warning in Victor's eyes, and he sounded ill-tempered. <br /> <br /> The second she saw him, Rachel thought of how Victor choked her this morning. She trembled with fear, wary of what he might do to her. <br /> <br /> Standing in attention, she said, "No, I remember."<br /> <br /> "Oh, you do? Then why are you still here?" Victor asked, striding towards her. <br /> <br /> Rachel kept pacing backwards until her back was against the wall. She closed her eyes for a second and then braced herself to look into his eyes. <br /> <br /> "You should ask Alice. I was about to leave, but she appeared out of nowhere and delayed me. That's why I..."<br /> <br /> Rachel was half-way to finishing her explanation when Alice suddenly interrupted her. <br /> <br /> "How could you lie like that?" she asked with tearful eyes. <br /> <br /> "I'm not lying!" At this moment, Rachel was cursing Alice in her head. If it weren't for this woman, she would've left an hour ago, and she wouldn't have run into Victor. <br /> <br /> Damn it.<br /> <br /> As if she was about to break into tears, Alice said, "Victor, I didn't mean to delay Rachel's departure. I was just following your orders to check her luggage. I'm afraid that she'll steal your stuff. My sister revels in lying. I didn't expect that she'd lie again this time."<br /> <br /> Alice's words reminded Victor of everything that Rachel had done, making him look more sullen than usual. "Rachel, do you honestly think I won't try to kill you?"<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, he strangled Rachel with his hand, slamming her head against the wall. She didn't see that coming, but she managed to grab Victor's hand instinctively. The pain coming from the back of her head made her dizzy. <br /> <br /> "Vic... Victor!" Rachel called out with difficulty. <br /> <br /> "How dare you test my patience over and over?" said Victor. <br /> <br /> With every passing second, Rachel was losing her consciousness. She couldn't break free from Victor's grasp at all. <br /> <br /> Upon seeing the situation, Ivan decided to intervene. He hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Mr. Sullivan, if something happens to Mrs. Sullivan, those guys in the board of directors will use that against you. If that happens, your plan of concentrating equity will be hampered."<br /> <br /> "Get off!" Victor roared. His fingers that were gripping Rachel's neck turned pale because of how strong he was gripping her. <br /> <br /> As much as he worried about Rachel, Ivan didn't dare to talk back to Victor again. <br /> <br /> 'I don't want to die.' <br /> <br /> She used the last of her strength to push Victor's hand away. Once she was able to catch her breath a little, she stared at him; her eyes turning red. <br /> <br /> "If I die here and now, then I will die as your wife; still a member of the Sullivans. Someday, when you die, you will be buried next to me, and I will haunt you beyond the afterlife!"<br /> <br /> Rachel said those words with difficulty; her face had turned red due to the suffocation. Gradually, Rachel had no strength to struggle. Little by little, she could feel her consciousness slipping. <br /> <br /> "Who do you think you are? You don't deserve to be buried in my family's mausoleum." Victor sounded indifferent. "If you die, I'll cremate your body and throw the ashes into a bin. A woman like you deserves to rest with the rubbish!"<br /> <br /> Rachel burst into laughter. <br /> <br /> "Why are you laughing?" Victor asked. <br /> <br /> "Even if you throw my ashes into a bin, it won't change the fact that I'm your legal wife, and I'm part of your family tree. You loathe me, don't you? Sorry, but you'll never get rid of me, even if I die!"<br /> <br /> Victor stared daggers at her as he strengthened his grip, lifting her in midair. Consequently, Rachel yelped in pain, and tears rolled down her cheeks. <br /> <br /> Just when she was hallucinating of the shameless couple in her previous life, Victor suddenly let go of her. <br /> <br /> Rachel fell to the ground. She felt like every bone in her body had been broken, and even the slightest movement made her groan in pain. <br /> <br /> She coughed violently and gasped for air, breathing with so much difficulty. <br /> <br /> Ivan glanced at Rachel indifferently and lowered his head. "Mr. Sullivan, it's all my fault. I didn't urge her to leave in time. I'm willing to suffer the consequences."<br /> <br /> Alice turned pale with fear as she watched Victor beat up Rachel. She got down on her knees and begged, "Victor, I... This is my fault! I didn't check Rachel's suitcase faster. That's why she had the opportunity to lie and buy time for herself."<br /> <br /> Rachel could feel her chest tightening as she coughed over and over. <br /> <br /> "I didn’t take anything that belongs to you," she said in a hoarse voice. <br /> <br /> Victor took out some wet wipes to clean his hand that had touched Rachel's neck. Disgust was evident on his face. <br /> <br /> "You didn't take anything? You bought all your clothes using my money. How dare you say that you didn’t take my stuff?"<br /> <br /> Rachel pursed her lips, unable to refute his logic. On her wedding day, Alice had burned all the clothes that Rachel had bought herself. Alice said that her clothes were too vulgar, and Victor probably wouldn't want to see her wearing them. <br /> <br /> "Take off her clothes and throw her out!" After saying that, Victor left along with Ivan without hesitation. <br /> <br /> Only when those two had left did Alice get up and walk towards Rachel. Her previous ostensibly tenderness had now disappeared. <br /> <br /> "Rachel, you married Victor and slept with him, but so what? In the end, he kicked you out! You wanted to make him fall in love with you, didn't you? That's never going to happen! Do you really think I asked you to wear heavy makeup and put on weight because Victor likes it? This is hilarious. I can't believe you actually fell for that. No man will ever like a fat and idiotic woman like you! I was messing with you. I just wanted to make him hate you even more!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's face turned ghastly pale. When she heard what Alice said, she didn't even look at her. She was indifferent to Alice's words and did not seem to hear her provocation. <br /> <br /> Seeing that Rachel wasn't responding, Alice gritted her teeth in anger. "Why are you looking at me like that?"<br /> <br /> "Huh! You're so pathetic." Rachel chuckled, trying to endure the pain. <br /> <br /> She was sure that she had suffered an internal injury. Just the act of talking was painful enough to make her feel like her organs were being twisted together. <br /> <br /> But she couldn't afford to show any sign of weakness. Otherwise, Alice would revel in torturing her. Evil was in that woman's nature. <br /> <br /> "What did you say?" Alice's eyes widened in surprise. When Rachel sneered at her, she was goaded. <br /> <br /> "I said," Rachel took a deep breath to alleviate the pain in her chest. "You are living a miserable, ridiculous life. You're the most pathetic person I've ever met! Being called must make you feel inferior, doesn't it? You've been trying your best to steal everything I had since we were kids, because I'm the Bennet family's legitimate daughter, and you're just a dirty little. You are always unpresentable!"<br /> <br /> "shut up!" Alice screamed. It seemed that Rachel had struck a sore spot. <br /> <br /> Rachel grinned and continued, "These past two years, I trusted you, and yet you deceived me by taking advantage of my desire to draw Victor's attention. You fooled me into doing stupid things in front of him, so that he would loathe me. At first, he didn't feel anything for me, and then he began to hate me. And now, he's too disgusted to even lay eyes on me. You must be proud of this accomplishment, aren't you?"<br /> <br /> Alice clenched her fists, looking at Rachel with hatred. "Well, you should blame yourself for being so stupid!"<br /> <br /> "You're right. I was stupid," Rachel admitted. Right now, she felt ashamed for what she had done in the past two years. <br /> <br /> Despite being the daughter of a rich and powerful family, she had lived a pathetic life. How did she end up this way? <br /> <br /> "You have a clear estimation of yourself." The look on Alice's face made it seem like she was the winner between them. <br /> <br /> "I almost died, and that's enough to wake me up. I'm not stupid like you after all." Rachel wanted to make sure that she didn't have any broken bones, so she propped herself up using her hands. However, the pain was far too much for her to bear, so she fell down once more. <br /> <br /> Sweat dripped down her forehead as she groaned in pain; her hands, pressing against the hard floor. The veins on the back of her hands were bulging because she was exerting every ounce of strength she could muster. <br /> <br /> Alice's face turned grim. <br /> <br /> "Your end is near, Rachel. How dare you talk to me like that? Remember, you are no longer Victor's wife, and are therefore no longer part of the Sullivan family! His grandmother is dead now, so there's no one left to protect you! If you have a brain in that empty head of yours, you should kneel down and beg me to persuade our father to allow you to go home!"<br /> <br /> When Alice mentioned Victor's grandmother, a faraway look appeared on Rachel's face. <br /> <br /> Victor's grandmother was the one who chose Rachel to be his wife. Not long after she married into the Sullivan family, the old lady died of illness. His grandmother used to be Rachel's protector when she was still alive. During that time, Rachel lived a dignified life within the Sullivan family's residence. <br /> <br /> "Do you think you'll be able to marry Victor and share the Sullivan Group with him after I divorce him?"<br /> <br /> Upon hearing that, Alice stood proudly. "You were able to do it, so I probably can as well."<br /> <br /> "You can't," Rachel said in a weak, yet firm tone. "Why are you so confident that Victor will agree to marry you? Just because he's also an illegitimate child, you think you're good enough to be his wife?<br /> <br /> Your mother is a mistress; a home-wrecker! Unlike you, Victor was born before his father even got married. And his mother never destroyed the man's marriage later! <br /> <br /> With that being said, you will never deserve to be Victor's wife," said Rachel. <br /> <br /> Alice's fingernails were digging into her palms, and her chest was heaving up and down due to the anger she was feeling. <br /> <br /> All of a sudden, she pulled Rachel up and slapped her face. <br /> <br /> The slap left a palm print on Rachel's face. <br /> <br /> Blood oozed from the corner of her mouth. Obviously, Alice didn't hold back when she slapped Rachel. <br /> <br /> Gnashing her teeth, Alice said to the servants, "You two, hold her up!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's vision was fading because of how hard she had gotten hit. The servants didn't dawdle, and they immediately followed Alice's command. Each of them held one of Rachel's arms to restrict her. <br /> <br /> With a murderous gaze, Alice clasped Rachel's chin, forcing her to raise her head. <br /> <br /> The imprint of an open hand was evident on the right side of her face; it was red and swollen. Once more, Alice raised her hand and snarled, "You're quite glib, aren't you? Say something again, I dare you!"<br /> <br /> "Alice, do you know what my life motto is?" Rachel spat out a mouthful of blood, trying her best to keep her eyes open. Her almond-shaped eyes looked as cold as ice. Her steely gaze was enough to intimidate people. <br /> <br /> "Ten eyes for an eye, and ten teeth for a single tooth," Rachel sneered. "As long as I live and breathe, I will hunt you down to the ends of the earth, and I will make you suffer for what you've done to me today!"<br /> <br /> For a moment, Alice was startled by her gaze, but she soon came to her senses. <br /> <br /> "Don't try to frighten me with that threat! Do you think a loser like you could scare me?" she said through gritted teeth. <br /> <br /> Right after she said that, Alice hit Rachel's face until it swelled up. <br /> <br /> Her anger was finally quenched when she got tired. She looked at Rachel dead in the eyes and said to the servants, "Didn't you hear Mr. Sullivan earlier?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, ma'am. He ordered us to remove her clothes and throw her out," a servant said, lowering her gaze. <br /> <br /> Alice massaged her sore wrist, smiling with satisfaction before she decided to strut away. <br /> <br /> Before long, the servants stripped Rachel down to her pelt, leaving only a set of silk underwear to cover her naked body. <br /> <br /> Unable to resist, Rachel closed her eyes and gave up struggling. She just let them do whatever they wanted to her. <br /> <br /> She knew very well that her survival was now the most important thing. <br /> <br /> The servants supported her on each side as they walked towards the door. <br /> <br /> After all, Rachel was once Victor's wife. Even though the servants loathed her, they still didn't want to bear witness to her embarrassment. Along the way, she didn't see anyone else besides the maids who were escorting her. <br /> <br /> Meanwhile, the butler knocked on the door of the study. <br /> <br /> "Come in," said Victor. <br /> <br /> The butler entered the room and said to him, "Mr. Sullivan, Mrs-Ms. Bennet had been thrown out as you've commanded."<br /> <br /> Victor was currently reading a contract, so he didn't raise his head when he replied, "Did she say anything?"<br /> <br /> "No," said the butler. <br /> <br /> With a snort, Victor thought of what Rachel had said earlier. His eyes brimmed with cruelty as he shut the folder and ordered, "Tell them to throw that woman as far as they can. Don't let that woman disgrace my doorstep."<br /> <br /> The butler was shocked to hear that. "Yes, sir," he answered reluctantly. <br /> <br /> Inside a cramped basement somewhere south of the city.<br /> <br /> "No!" Rachel suddenly woke up, sitting upright and screaming. She was breathing heavily and looking ahead in horror. <br /> <br /> Just then, someone pushed the door open from outside. Seeing that she was awake, the man set aside the medicine he had prepared and walked to the bed. <br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, you're finally awake," he said with concern. <br /> <br /> Rachel looked at him vigilantly, calming down at once. She tried to recall the man's name, because he looked familiar. However, she couldn't remember who he was at the moment. <br /> <br /> She looked down at her body and remembered that she had been thrown out of Victor's house; half-naked and almost dying. But now, she was still alive, sitting here in a tacky yet neat floral shirt with matching pants. <br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Rachel's voice was hoarse, and it seemed like she was wary of him. <br /> <br /> "We've met before, but you were still a child back then. It's normal that you don't remember me. I'm Andy Torres, your mother's private lawyer." The man smiled at her. <br /> <br /> 'Andy? Mom's lawyer?'<br /> <br /> Rachel remembered that her mother did have a lawyer. "Did you save me?"<br /> <br /> "I did. When I called you, a passerby answered the phone and said that you had fainted. But don't worry, I didn't see anything. The man who found you covered you with a coat, and then I carried you to my car and drove you back here," Andy explained. <br /> <br /> "Then, why am I wearing these clothes?"<br /> <br /> "Oh, I asked an old lady who lives next door to change it for you."<br /> <br /> Rachel breathed a sigh of relief, but she still frowned. "You mentioned that you called me. What for?"<br /> <br /> Her mother died when she was 13. Andy said that he was her mother's lawyer, but Rachel hadn't seen him for so many years. It was suspicious that he suddenly showed up this time. <br /> <br /> Andy got up and walked out of the room. Moments later, he returned with a document, and gave it to Rachel. <br /> <br /> "This is your mother's last will and testament," he said. <br /> <br /> "My mother's will?" Doubt filled Rachel's eyes. If she remembered correctly, her mother departed this world so suddenly that she didn't have the time to make a will. <br /> <br /> Otherwise, Rachel's useless father and his mistress wouldn't have been so reckless and high-profile. <br /> <br /> "Yes, she entrusted me to be the witness of her will when she was still alive. She told me to make this will public, and give it to you on your 24th birthday."<br /> <br /> Now that Andy had mentioned that, Rachel remembered that her birthday was the same day of her divorce with Victor. <br /> <br /> "It's clearly stated in this will that you will inherit all of your mother's assets, including fifteen percent of the Bennet Group's shares, and the villa she lived in before she died," Andy continued. <br /> <br /> Rachel turned to the last page and she saw the name "Elisa Bennet" on the bottom right corner of the paper. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Torres, how many days have I been unconscious?" asked Rachel. <br /> <br /> "Three days."<br /> <br /> She then put away the document and got out of bed. "In that case, they've been living comfortably for three more days. That's enough for them."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Rachel walked towards the door. <br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, where are you going?" asked Andy. <br /> <br /> Rachel stopped at the door, glancing at the will in her hand. She raised her eyebrows and smiled. <br /> <br /> "Where else? I'm going back home and kick out my father, his woman of a mistress, and their daughter!" With that, Rachel opened the door and strode out. <br /> <br /> Andy was taken aback by what she said for a moment. Somehow, he saw a glimpse of Elisa during her youth. <br /> <br /> As he watched Rachel walk away, Andy put on his suit jacket and followed her quickly. <br /> <br /> In the Bennet family's house, in the Riverside Villa District north of the city.<br /> <br /> Rachel and Andy stood in front of the door. They had been ringing the doorbell dozens of times, and yet nobody was answering. <br /> <br /> Annoyed by the constant ringing, finally the housekeeper trotted outside and shouted, "Stop it! Who is there? A debt collector or something? Stop ringing it! You're driving me crazy!"<br /> <br /> Right after she stopped talking, the housekeeper opened the side door and looked at the visitors with a frown. She was stunned to see who they were. <br /> <br /> Rachel put on a sardonic smile. "Well, we do have a debt to collect."<br /> <br /> "You... it's you!" The housekeeper's face turned pale, and a chill ran down her spine because of how intimidating Rachel looked. <br /> <br /> "What's wrong, Viola? Have you forgotten about me because you haven't seen me for a long time?" Rachel asked. <br /> <br /> Viola Lee swallowed hard nervously. For some reason, her feet felt cold. <br /> <br /> "Mi- Miss Rachel, you're back," she stammered. <br /> <br /> Rachel took a step forward. "That's right. I'm back, and I'm staying this time. Viola, go clean up my bedroom."<br /> <br /> Viola lowered her gaze and pursed her lips, unable to respond. 'Her bedroom?' Rachel didn't have a bedroom in this house anymore. Alice had already occupied her old bedroom. <br /> <br /> However, Viola didn't want to say that out loud. If this had happened in the past, she wouldn't have hesitated to say it. However, it looked like Rachel had changed so much. She had become a terrifying woman, and Viola was so scared of her that it felt difficult to breathe. <br /> <br /> "Who's home right now?" Rachel looked around and saw that the garden's layout hadn't changed in the past two years. Everything was the same as before. <br /> <br /> "Your father, his wife, and Miss Alice are all here," Viola replied. <br /> <br /> "Great! That saves me the effort of looking for them," Rachel said as she walked through the front yard and entered the house. <br /> <br /> Inside the living room.<br /> <br /> "Mom, which one looks better on me? This one or the previous one?" Alice asked, fiddling with the diamond necklace around her neck. <br /> <br /> "Silly girl, the other one is more expensive. You're going to attend Mr. Sullivan's banquet, so you should wear something more expensive." The middle-aged woman grabbed the necklace on the table. It was embedded with a sapphire, and it looked more expensive and exquisite. Gently, she put it around Alice's neck. <br /> <br /> Alice looked at the sapphire necklace and touched the gleaming gem. She couldn't resist the urge to smile at how beautiful it looked. <br /> <br /> She put down her hand, walking to the other end of the sofa, sat down next to a middle-aged man, and held his arm. <br /> <br /> "Dad, look at it! It's beautiful, isn't it?" Alice asked, blinking her beautiful eyes. <br /> <br /> Jack Jenkins looked at his daughter, caressing her head. "My daughter is the most beautiful woman in the world. No matter what you wear, you'll look divine!"<br /> <br /> Hearing that put a smile on Alice's face. "Dad, if mom hears you say that I'm the most beautiful in the world, she'll get jealous."<br /> <br /> Caroline Jenkins chimed in, "Why would I be jealous? You silly little girl. You enjoy making fun of me, don't you?"<br /> <br /> Amused, Jack held Caroline's hand and chuckled. "To me, you and your mother are the most beautiful women in existence."<br /> <br /> Alice leaned against his shoulder and smiled, while Caroline lowered her head because she felt a little shy to hear that. <br /> <br /> All of a sudden, they heard someone clapping. <br /> <br /> The happiness dissipated from their faces when they saw who was at the door. <br /> <br /> Rachel tilted her head and put down her hands. "What a happy family you all are. I am so moved by this scene. What about you, Mr. Torres?"<br /> <br /> On their way to this villa, Andy learned that Rachel had been suffering these past few years. Initially, he believed that even after Elisa's death, Rachel would live a comfortable life because she was the lady of a rich family, and she later married to Victor, a business tycoon. <br /> <br /> Andy was filled with rage when he saw how happy Jack and his new family were. He just stood there, looking at them with anger. <br /> <br /> "Rachel! What are you doing here?" Alice was the first to react. <br /> <br /> Rachel scoffed at her, walked to the sofa, and sat down. <br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Andy happened to hear Alice's question. He followed Rachel and stood behind her. <br /> <br /> "Miss Jenkins, this is Miss Bennet's house. If she wants to come back, she's permitted to do so whenever she wants."<br /> <br /> "Who do you think you are? Was I even talking to you?" Alice scolded Andy, and glared at him. <br /> <br /> Courteously, he replied, "I am her personal lawyer."<br /> <br /> Alice snorted with disdain. "Everyone is claiming to be a lawyer these days. Rachel, Victor has thrown you out of his house, and you have nowhere else to go. Do you think you can come back and live here just because you hired a lawyer? No way! Get out of here! You're not welcome in this household!"<br /> <br /> After saying that, Alice strode forward and tried to grab Rachel's arm, intending to drag her outside. <br /> <br /> But to her surprise, Rachel managed to dodge her. Seconds later, Alice felt a stinging sensation in her neck, causing her to groan in pain and cover her neck. <br /> <br /> Rachel, on the other hand, stood calmly as she held the necklace that Alice was wearing just now, albeit it had been stained with blood now. <br /> <br /> "Rachel Bennet! How dare you?" Alice lost her temper. She immediately tried to hit Rachel, but there was an imperceptible smile on Rachel's face. Just before Alice's hand could reach her face, Rachel grabbed Alice's wrist, and then she kicked her knee. And then she let go of her. <br /> <br /> Alice cried out in pain. <br /> <br /> She dropped to her knees, falling to the ground. <br /> <br /> "Alice!" Caroline quickly went to her daughter's side to help her up. She never imagined that this woman, Rachel, would dare to hit her daughter. <br /> <br /> Rachel looked at the necklace in her hand. "If I remember correctly, this necklace is supposed to be mine, right?"<br /> <br /> With a pale face, Alice gritted her teeth, trying to take back the necklace. "That's mine!"<br /> <br /> However, Rachel withdrew her hand, and sat back on the sofa. "This necklace is worth at least millions of dollars. Alice, didn't you tell me that you had no money to buy a dress worth only ten thousand dollars? You even manipulated me into buying it for you, remember? When did you become so rich to have a necklace like this?"<br /> <br /> That statement made Alice's face turn ghastly pale. "That's none of your business! The necklace is mine! Give it back, or I'm calling the police to arrest you for robbery!"<br /> <br /> Rachel crossed her legs, leaned back against the sofa, and didn't say anything for a moment. She just looked at the three of them in silence. <br /> <br /> Alice was scared by the way she was looking at them. She suddenly remembered what Rachel had told her three days ago. 'I will make you suffer for what you've done to me today!'<br /> <br /> "You see, sapphires are rare. That's why every sapphire is engraved with a special serial number with a laser. Alice, you said that this necklace is yours, so you must know what that serial number is, right?" Rachel said with derision. <br /> <br /> Alice was dumbfounded. The serial number? Did sapphires have numbers? How was she supposed to know that? She just took this necklace from Rachel's jewelry box that she left at home. <br /> <br /> Looking a bit guilty, Alice retorted, "Who will pay special attention to a stupid serial number when they buy a necklace? The number is too long to remember!"<br /> <br /> "Oh, you don't remember, do you?" Rachel didn't seem to care what Alice had said. She just put on a sardonic smile to mock her. <br /> <br /> "It's okay. Since you bought this necklace, you should have an appraisal certificate. The serial number is written on it too. Once the police come, just take out the certificate and show it to them."<br /> <br /> Alice began to panic. Hesitantly, she stammered, "I... I..."<br /> <br /> "What? Are you going to tell me that you lost the appraisal certificate?" Rachel saw through Alice's face, so she interrupted her and continued, "It's not a big deal if you lost the certificate. The police will look into it."<br /> <br /> Alice's face darkened. <br /> <br /> At this moment, Rachel paused when she noticed that Alice fell silent. Seconds later, she asked, "What's the matter? Didn't you want to call the police to arrest me for robbery? Go ahead, call them."<br /> &10&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-x	108394237578957	Fiction books	https://facebook.com/100075615382269	52,573	1	678,181,754,490,125	2024-07-04 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Fiction books	120210512020050031	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	video		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-xy-0720-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=200518&accid=6463366573788529&jump=1	2024-06-29 04:24	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449109555_1169601064309352_5325885829305363989_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5P0cMYN5BfsQ7kNvgEJvMhG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAXN4cW6RtsfuFe20WQrSLvImTNVOtMTqmLlH8xL4cK9A&oe=66926447	person_profile	Fiction books	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449027236_929529625851983_9099000155728929924_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gvZZihEgWqUQ7kNvgFP5HD-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBzXZ6bU1IoJZXaSrxujNlnaLUOx76DuUvzzZOlkWMmsw&oe=66925C18	3	Fiction books	2024-06-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,915,448	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1915466}'	Yes	2024-07-08 20:08	active	1089	993495248732999	Captivation: Want Nothing But You	"Take off her clothes and throw her out! "<br /> <br /> "Tell them to throw that woman as far as they can. Don't let that woman disgrace my doorstep."<br /> <br /> Three days later<br /> <br /> "No!" Rachel suddenly woke up, sitting upright and screaming.<br /> <br /> Just then, someone pushed the door open from outside.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, you're finally awake," he said with concern. <br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Rachel's voice was hoarse. <br /> <br /> "We've met before, but you were still a child back then. It's normal that you don't remember me. I'm Andy Torres, your mother's private lawyer." The man smiled at her. <br /> <br /> 'Andy? Mom's lawyer?'<br /> <br /> "Did you save me?"<br /> <br /> "I did. When I called you, a passerby answered the phone and said that you had fainted."<br /> <br /> "You mentioned that you called me. What for?"<br /> <br /> Andy got up and walked out of the room. Moments later, he returned with a document, and gave it to Rachel. <br /> <br /> "This is your mother's last will and testament," he said. <br /> <br /> "My mother's will?" Doubt filled Rachel's eyes.<br /> <br /> "Yes, she entrusted me to be the witness of her will when she was still alive. She told me to make this will public, and give it to you on your 24th birthday."<br /> <br /> "It's clearly stated in this will that you will inherit all of your mother's assets, including fifteen percent of the Bennet Group's shares, and the villa she lived in before she died," Andy continued. <br /> <br /> Rachel turned to the last page and she saw the name "Elisa Bennet" on the bottom right corner of the paper. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Torres, how many days have I been unconscious?" asked Rachel. <br /> <br /> "Three days."<br /> <br /> She then put away the document and got out of bed. "In that case, they've been living comfortably for three more days. That's enough for them."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Rachel walked towards the door. <br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, where are you going?" asked Andy. <br /> <br /> Rachel stopped at the door, glancing at the will in her hand. She raised her eyebrows and smiled. <br /> <br /> "Where else? I'm going back home and kick out my father, his woman of a mistress, and their daughter!" With that, Rachel opened the door and strode out. <br /> <br /> ---<br /> On the king-size bed, the man's face was a mask of fury, his black eyes burning with hate. The veins stood out on his forehead and his arms as he wrung the woman's slender neck. <br /> <br /> The woman was still half-asleep, but she could feel something was wrong. She couldn't breathe! <br /> <br /> Rachel Bennet opened her eyes wide, still groggy from sleep. She felt a pair of hands on her neck, choking the life out of her. She was confused and consumed by fear and panic. <br /> <br /> As her lungs started screaming for air, her survival instinct kicked in. She raised her hands to her throat, trying to fend off her attacker. <br /> <br /> But the man wouldn't budge. Instead, he tightened his grip on her neck, causing her face to turn a deep red and her vision to blur. <br /> <br /> Bam! <br /> <br /> The door was thrown open and the butler rushed in. His face paled at the sight before him, but he didn't lose a minute. He hurried to the bed and grabbed the man's arm, shouting, "Mr. Sullivan! Mr. Sullivan! Please let go of her! You're killing her!"<br /> <br /> "She deserves to die!" The man had an unhinged look in his eyes and spit came out of his mouth along with his words. <br /> <br /> The butler knew that couldn't stop the man physically, so he knelt by the bed and started begging for Rachel's life. "Mr. Sullivan, please! If you kill her, your grandma will roll over in her grave. She won't be able to rest in peace!"<br /> <br /> Grandma? <br /> <br /> Hearing the butler's words, Victor Sullivan loosened his grip slightly. <br /> <br /> Rachel grabbed the opportunity to escape his grasp and crawl away. Her back hit the headboard and she stayed there curled in a ball, looking at Victor with wide, fearful eyes. <br /> <br /> The butler saw the change in Victor's attitude as a sign to keep pushing. "Mr. Sullivan, be patient! Today your divorce will become official. You will never see Mrs. Sullivan again! Spare her life for her mother’s sake. Her mother once saved your grandma, remember? Please calm down!"<br /> <br /> Victor seemed to see the reason behind his butler's words. He got out of bed, put on his pajamas in silence. When he was done, he turned around and spoke, in a voice cold as ice. <br /> <br /> "I'll tell Ivan to send the divorce papers here. Sign it and then get out. I don't want to see your face ever again."<br /> <br /> With a final look filled with hatred, he left the room, followed by the butler. <br /> <br /> The door slammed behind him, the sound hurting Rachel's ears. She covered herself with the bedcovers, still in shock. Her face was deathly pale, her heart fluttering in her chest. <br /> <br /> She lowered her head and looked at her body. She was completely naked and dark bruises marred her otherwise flawless skin. <br /> <br /> The adrenaline coursing through her veins had dulled the pain until now. But when the worst had passed, Rachel felt that her entire body was sore. She hurt everywhere. <br /> <br /> Rachel couldn't find any women's clothes in the closet. It contained only men's shirts and black suits. <br /> <br /> She grabbed a shirt and a pair of suit pants and put them on. Th e pants were ridiculously large for her, dragging on the ground. <br /> <br /> On top of the pain she already felt, she could feel a terrible headache coming on. Groaning, she walked to the sofa and sat down. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes. Memories that didn't belong to her started flooding her senses. <br /> <br /> Moments later, she opened her eyes again. Those memories belonged to the former owner of this body, the woman named Rachel. After quietly sorting things out in her mind, she finally came to two conclusions. <br /> <br /> She had been reborn, from Shelia Davis to Rachel Bennet. <br /> <br /> The one inhabiting this body before her was a worthless girl madly in love with Victor. Her mother had gotten sick and died a while ago and her father was a pathetic scumbag. <br /> <br /> There was a knock on the door. <br /> <br /> The sound startled Rachel out of her reverie. A cold voice came from the other side of the door. "May I come in?"<br /> <br /> She hastily rolled up the bottom of the pants and hurried to open the door. A tall and dull-looking man stood there, holding a stack of papers in his hand. <br /> <br /> "Ivan." Rachel quickly searched her memories and retrieved the man's name. <br /> <br /> His face expressionless, Ivan Chavez handed her the documents and a pen. "Mr. Sullivan asked me to see you out. As soon as you sign the divorce papers."<br /> <br /> Rachel glanced at the documents, recalling what the butler had said earlier. Today was the second wedding anniversary of Victor and Rachel, but from now on, it would also be the end of their marriage. <br /> <br /> Was the divorce agreement cooked up in less than an hour? Victor must really hate Rachel.<br /> <br /> She took the agreement and started turning pages, signing "Rachel Bennet" neatly wherever it was necessary. She was done in less than thirty seconds. <br /> <br /> "There you go," Rachel said, as she returned the papers to Ivan and clicked the pen. <br /> <br /> Ivan looked at her in astonishment, eyebrows raised. He didn't expect it to be so easy. When Victor asked him to bring over the agreement, he told Ivan that Rachel didn't want to sign it, so he might have to use force. <br /> <br /> "Don't you want to read it first?" Ivan said, still not reaching out to take the papers. <br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows and replied flatly, "No."<br /> <br /> "Aren't you curious about what you are getting out of this divorce?" Ivan was frowning now, looking more and more confused. <br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows while hitching up her pants. She flashed Ivan a smile. "There is no need to read it. I know that there are two possible outcomes. One is that I am in a world of debt and go bankrupt soon, and the other is that I have to leave this marriage without a penny. I am sure Victor put together a team of exceptional lawyers to work on the best option for him."<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes darkened. He took the divorce papers and said, "Mr. Sullivan just wants you to walk away without getting any of his assets."<br /> <br /> "Well, make sure you thank him on my behalf." Rachel really didn't give a shit about it at all. It was this body's former occupant that loved Victor, not her. She didn't even care if the man lived or died. <br /> <br /> She didn't want a violent man like him for a husband. A man that would strangle his own wife to death. She now had another chance to live and she intended to make the best of it. <br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes fell on Rachel's neck. <br /> <br /> "Would you like me to call a doctor for you?"<br /> <br /> Rachel was at a loss for a moment. Then she remembered the bruises around her neck and raised her hand to touch them. The feeling of suffocation came back to her and she had to shake her head to get rid of it. <br /> <br /> "No, thanks. I'm fine. It's not that bad," she replied, shrugging. <br /> <br /> "Then please pack your things." Ivan's tone was back to normal: cold and businesslike. <br /> <br /> She nodded and left Victor's bedroom barefoot, still pulling up her pants. She had a long way to go to reach her own bedroom. Victor hated Rachel so much that he didn't even want to bump into her in the corridor, so her room was all the way to the other side of the huge house. <br /> <br /> It took her nearly two minutes to get there. <br /> <br /> Her bedroom had originally been a storage room, but soon after Rachel and Victor's wedding, Rachel moved in here. She pushed the door open and walked through the narrow doorway nimbly. <br /> <br /> The room was really small. It only contained a bed and a dressing table, the furniture was so close together that there was no room to walk around properly. <br /> <br /> Rachel didn't have much to pack. Except for her cosmetics strewn all over the dressing table and a few clothes, she didn't have much else. She changed into her own clothes and stuffed the rest of her things into a suitcase. <br /> <br /> "Okay, I'm all packed. I'm leaving now. I hope I will never see you again, Ivan! Goodbye!" Rachel said in a carefree, cool voice as she dragged her suitcase across the hall. <br /> <br /> "Rachel, where do you think you are going?" Suddenly, the elevator doors slid open, revealing a woman in a business suit. Her high heels clicked on the marble floor, the sound crisp and curt, matching her sharp voice perfectly. <br /> <br /> Rachel stopped to look at the woman approaching her. <br /> <br /> "Alice?" <br /> <br /> Alice Jenkins was her half-sister, a veritable two-faced woman. <br /> <br /> As she stood in front of Rachel, Alice grinned. "My dear sister, are you moving out?"<br /> <br /> Rachel rolled her eyes at her, and put on a fake smile. "It's been so long since we last saw each other. Why do you still like asking dumb questions so much? Does a bear shit in the woods?"<br /> <br /> Her remark left Alice livid. But she soon suppressed her anger, changing into an innocent expression again. <br /> <br /> "I'm just trying to show you some concern. How can you think of me that way?"<br /> <br /> 'Concern? <br /> <br /> That's funny. You just want to mock me, ' Rachel thought. <br /> <br /> With a face devoid of emotion, Ivan intervened in their conversation. He reminded Rachel, "Mrs. Sullivan, it's time for you to leave. Mr. Sullivan is about to come back."<br /> <br /> The corners of her mouth twitched. She pointed at Alice and said to Ivan, "It's not that I don't want to leave; it's just that there's a mad dog blocking my path. I'm afraid that she'll bite me."<br /> <br /> Ivan was rendered speechless. <br /> <br /> Alice began to shed crocodile tears. "Rachel, I know you're getting divorced today. I was really worried that you'll be sad, so I left my work early to come to see you. How... How could you say that to me? I'm your sister."<br /> <br /> "shut up! I don't have a dog for a sister." Rachel quickly distanced herself from Alice, and turned to Ivan again. "Ivan, shall we?"<br /> <br /> His temples began to ache, and he failed to maintain his stern expression for a moment. Left with no other choice, he said to Alice, "Miss Jenkins, please excuse us."<br /> <br /> Alice bit her lower lip. Her eyes were fiery with rage at this moment, but they were covered by her bangs. <br /> <br /> "Ivan, an untrained dog cannot comprehend human language," Rachel said to taunt her. <br /> <br /> That remark made Alice fume with rage. She clenched her fists, and glared at Rachel. <br /> <br /> Upon seeing Alice restrain her anger, Rachel tilted her head a little, smiling to vex Alice even more. <br /> <br /> The arrogant smile on Rachel's face annoyed Alice. <br /> <br /> 'What is going on? Rachel is usually timid, and she's always obedient and grateful to me. Why did her personality turn upside down?'<br /> <br /> "Miss Jenkins," Ivan called out; his voice held a hint of impatience. <br /> <br /> Alice pressed her lips, hiding her suspicions. "Ivan, I'm not implying that I don't want my sister to leave. It's just that Victor asked me to see how things are going here."<br /> <br /> Both Ivan and Rachel were surprised to hear that. <br /> <br /> "Victor knew that I was coming here, so he specifically told me to watch Rachel pack up and leave. He said that according to the divorce agreement, Rachel wasn't allowed to take anything that belongs to the Sullivan family. I'm just here to make sure she upholds the agreement." Alice looked at the suitcase beside Rachel. <br /> <br /> "So, Rachel, could you please open your suitcase? I need to check if you took anything that doesn't belong to you."<br /> <br /> Rachel frowned at that. "It only contains a few clothes. I didn't take anything that belongs to the Sullivan family!"<br /> <br /> Alice grabbed the suitcase from her and said, "I'm afraid it's not up to you to decide. If you didn't take anything inappropriate with you, why are you so afraid of letting me see the contents of your suitcase?"<br /> <br /> After that, she laid the suitcase on the ground and opened it. <br /> <br /> Inside it, several clothes had been piled up in a mess. It seemed that Rachel really didn't take anything valuable with her. <br /> <br /> Alice gritted her teeth. She didn't expect that Rachel was telling the truth. Unwilling to let her go so easily, Alice rummaged through the clothes. It was as if she wasn't going to stop until she had found a piece of evidence that could prove Rachel had stolen something from the Sullivans. <br /> <br /> The only contents of the suitcase were Rachel's clothes and cosmetics, and yet Alice kept rummaging through the suitcase for over ten minutes. <br /> <br /> "Are you done checking?" Rachel glanced down at Alice. <br /> <br /> "I'm just following Victor's orders. It's better to check thoroughly," Alice replied softly. <br /> <br /> "Fine. Go ahead and check those clothes for as long as you want. I don't want them anymore." Rachel shook her head. The bruises on her body still hadn't healed yet. She really didn't want to waste any more time with Alice, and she didn't want to wait for Victor to come back and try to strangle her again. <br /> <br /> Now that she had said her piece, Rachel walked past Alice and towards the elevator and pushed the button. Ivan followed suit. <br /> <br /> Ding! <br /> <br /> Before long, the elevator arrived at the third floor. The sliding doors opened slowly. Just before Rachel could walk in, she suddenly felt a chill. The temperature around her dropped several degrees, making her shiver and stop in her tracks. <br /> <br /> The first thing she saw was a pair of shiny leather shoes. When she raised her head, she caught sight of Victor's aloof face. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan." Ivan was the first to react, bowing his head respectfully. <br /> <br /> "Rachel, it seems that you've forgotten what I told you this morning." There was a flash of warning in Victor's eyes, and he sounded ill-tempered. <br /> <br /> The second she saw him, Rachel thought of how Victor choked her this morning. She trembled with fear, wary of what he might do to her. <br /> <br /> Standing in attention, she said, "No, I remember."<br /> <br /> "Oh, you do? Then why are you still here?" Victor asked, striding towards her. <br /> <br /> Rachel kept pacing backwards until her back was against the wall. She closed her eyes for a second and then braced herself to look into his eyes. <br /> <br /> "You should ask Alice. I was about to leave, but she appeared out of nowhere and delayed me. That's why I..."<br /> <br /> Rachel was half-way to finishing her explanation when Alice suddenly interrupted her. <br /> <br /> "How could you lie like that?" she asked with tearful eyes. <br /> <br /> "I'm not lying!" At this moment, Rachel was cursing Alice in her head. If it weren't for this woman, she would've left an hour ago, and she wouldn't have run into Victor. <br /> <br /> Damn it.<br /> <br /> As if she was about to break into tears, Alice said, "Victor, I didn't mean to delay Rachel's departure. I was just following your orders to check her luggage. I'm afraid that she'll steal your stuff. My sister revels in lying. I didn't expect that she'd lie again this time."<br /> <br /> Alice's words reminded Victor of everything that Rachel had done, making him look more sullen than usual. "Rachel, do you honestly think I won't try to kill you?"<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, he strangled Rachel with his hand, slamming her head against the wall. She didn't see that coming, but she managed to grab Victor's hand instinctively. The pain coming from the back of her head made her dizzy. <br /> <br /> "Vic... Victor!" Rachel called out with difficulty. <br /> <br /> "How dare you test my patience over and over?" said Victor. <br /> <br /> With every passing second, Rachel was losing her consciousness. She couldn't break free from Victor's grasp at all. <br /> <br /> Upon seeing the situation, Ivan decided to intervene. He hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Mr. Sullivan, if something happens to Mrs. Sullivan, those guys in the board of directors will use that against you. If that happens, your plan of concentrating equity will be hampered."<br /> <br /> "Get off!" Victor roared. His fingers that were gripping Rachel's neck turned pale because of how strong he was gripping her. <br /> <br /> As much as he worried about Rachel, Ivan didn't dare to talk back to Victor again. <br /> <br /> 'I don't want to die.' <br /> <br /> She used the last of her strength to push Victor's hand away. Once she was able to catch her breath a little, she stared at him; her eyes turning red. <br /> <br /> "If I die here and now, then I will die as your wife; still a member of the Sullivans. Someday, when you die, you will be buried next to me, and I will haunt you beyond the afterlife!"<br /> <br /> Rachel said those words with difficulty; her face had turned red due to the suffocation. Gradually, Rachel had no strength to struggle. Little by little, she could feel her consciousness slipping. <br /> <br /> "Who do you think you are? You don't deserve to be buried in my family's mausoleum." Victor sounded indifferent. "If you die, I'll cremate your body and throw the ashes into a bin. A woman like you deserves to rest with the rubbish!"<br /> <br /> Rachel burst into laughter. <br /> <br /> "Why are you laughing?" Victor asked. <br /> <br /> "Even if you throw my ashes into a bin, it won't change the fact that I'm your legal wife, and I'm part of your family tree. You loathe me, don't you? Sorry, but you'll never get rid of me, even if I die!"<br /> <br /> Victor stared daggers at her as he strengthened his grip, lifting her in midair. Consequently, Rachel yelped in pain, and tears rolled down her cheeks. <br /> <br /> Just when she was hallucinating of the shameless couple in her previous life, Victor suddenly let go of her. <br /> <br /> Rachel fell to the ground. She felt like every bone in her body had been broken, and even the slightest movement made her groan in pain. <br /> <br /> She coughed violently and gasped for air, breathing with so much difficulty. <br /> <br /> Ivan glanced at Rachel indifferently and lowered his head. "Mr. Sullivan, it's all my fault. I didn't urge her to leave in time. I'm willing to suffer the consequences."<br /> <br /> Alice turned pale with fear as she watched Victor beat up Rachel. She got down on her knees and begged, "Victor, I... This is my fault! I didn't check Rachel's suitcase faster. That's why she had the opportunity to lie and buy time for herself."<br /> <br /> Rachel could feel her chest tightening as she coughed over and over. <br /> <br /> "I didn’t take anything that belongs to you," she said in a hoarse voice. <br /> <br /> Victor took out some wet wipes to clean his hand that had touched Rachel's neck. Disgust was evident on his face. <br /> <br /> "You didn't take anything? You bought all your clothes using my money. How dare you say that you didn’t take my stuff?"<br /> <br /> Rachel pursed her lips, unable to refute his logic. On her wedding day, Alice had burned all the clothes that Rachel had bought herself. Alice said that her clothes were too vulgar, and Victor probably wouldn't want to see her wearing them. <br /> <br /> "Take off her clothes and throw her out!" After saying that, Victor left along with Ivan without hesitation. <br /> <br /> Only when those two had left did Alice get up and walk towards Rachel. Her previous ostensibly tenderness had now disappeared. <br /> <br /> "Rachel, you married Victor and slept with him, but so what? In the end, he kicked you out! You wanted to make him fall in love with you, didn't you? That's never going to happen! Do you really think I asked you to wear heavy makeup and put on weight because Victor likes it? This is hilarious. I can't believe you actually fell for that. No man will ever like a fat and idiotic woman like you! I was messing with you. I just wanted to make him hate you even more!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's face turned ghastly pale. When she heard what Alice said, she didn't even look at her. She was indifferent to Alice's words and did not seem to hear her provocation. <br /> <br /> Seeing that Rachel wasn't responding, Alice gritted her teeth in anger. "Why are you looking at me like that?"<br /> <br /> "Huh! You're so pathetic." Rachel chuckled, trying to endure the pain. <br /> <br /> She was sure that she had suffered an internal injury. Just the act of talking was painful enough to make her feel like her organs were being twisted together. <br /> <br /> But she couldn't afford to show any sign of weakness. Otherwise, Alice would revel in torturing her. Evil was in that woman's nature. <br /> <br /> "What did you say?" Alice's eyes widened in surprise. When Rachel sneered at her, she was goaded. <br /> <br /> "I said," Rachel took a deep breath to alleviate the pain in her chest. "You are living a miserable, ridiculous life. You're the most pathetic person I've ever met! Being called must make you feel inferior, doesn't it? You've been trying your best to steal everything I had since we were kids, because I'm the Bennet family's legitimate daughter, and you're just a dirty little. You are always unpresentable!"<br /> <br /> "shut up!" Alice screamed. It seemed that Rachel had struck a sore spot. <br /> <br /> Rachel grinned and continued, "These past two years, I trusted you, and yet you deceived me by taking advantage of my desire to draw Victor's attention. You fooled me into doing stupid things in front of him, so that he would loathe me. At first, he didn't feel anything for me, and then he began to hate me. And now, he's too disgusted to even lay eyes on me. You must be proud of this accomplishment, aren't you?"<br /> <br /> Alice clenched her fists, looking at Rachel with hatred. "Well, you should blame yourself for being so stupid!"<br /> <br /> "You're right. I was stupid," Rachel admitted. Right now, she felt ashamed for what she had done in the past two years. <br /> <br /> Despite being the daughter of a rich and powerful family, she had lived a pathetic life. How did she end up this way? <br /> <br /> "You have a clear estimation of yourself." The look on Alice's face made it seem like she was the winner between them. <br /> <br /> "I almost died, and that's enough to wake me up. I'm not stupid like you after all." Rachel wanted to make sure that she didn't have any broken bones, so she propped herself up using her hands. However, the pain was far too much for her to bear, so she fell down once more. <br /> <br /> Sweat dripped down her forehead as she groaned in pain; her hands, pressing against the hard floor. The veins on the back of her hands were bulging because she was exerting every ounce of strength she could muster. <br /> <br /> Alice's face turned grim. <br /> <br /> "Your end is near, Rachel. How dare you talk to me like that? Remember, you are no longer Victor's wife, and are therefore no longer part of the Sullivan family! His grandmother is dead now, so there's no one left to protect you! If you have a brain in that empty head of yours, you should kneel down and beg me to persuade our father to allow you to go home!"<br /> <br /> When Alice mentioned Victor's grandmother, a faraway look appeared on Rachel's face. <br /> <br /> Victor's grandmother was the one who chose Rachel to be his wife. Not long after she married into the Sullivan family, the old lady died of illness. His grandmother used to be Rachel's protector when she was still alive. During that time, Rachel lived a dignified life within the Sullivan family's residence. <br /> <br /> "Do you think you'll be able to marry Victor and share the Sullivan Group with him after I divorce him?"<br /> <br /> Upon hearing that, Alice stood proudly. "You were able to do it, so I probably can as well."<br /> <br /> "You can't," Rachel said in a weak, yet firm tone. "Why are you so confident that Victor will agree to marry you? Just because he's also an illegitimate child, you think you're good enough to be his wife?<br /> <br /> Your mother is a mistress; a home-wrecker! Unlike you, Victor was born before his father even got married. And his mother never destroyed the man's marriage later! <br /> <br /> With that being said, you will never deserve to be Victor's wife," said Rachel. <br /> <br /> Alice's fingernails were digging into her palms, and her chest was heaving up and down due to the anger she was feeling. <br /> <br /> All of a sudden, she pulled Rachel up and slapped her face. <br /> <br /> The slap left a palm print on Rachel's face. <br /> <br /> Blood oozed from the corner of her mouth. Obviously, Alice didn't hold back when she slapped Rachel. <br /> <br /> Gnashing her teeth, Alice said to the servants, "You two, hold her up!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's vision was fading because of how hard she had gotten hit. The servants didn't dawdle, and they immediately followed Alice's command. Each of them held one of Rachel's arms to restrict her. <br /> <br /> With a murderous gaze, Alice clasped Rachel's chin, forcing her to raise her head. <br /> <br /> The imprint of an open hand was evident on the right side of her face; it was red and swollen. Once more, Alice raised her hand and snarled, "You're quite glib, aren't you? Say something again, I dare you!"<br /> <br /> "Alice, do you know what my life motto is?" Rachel spat out a mouthful of blood, trying her best to keep her eyes open. Her almond-shaped eyes looked as cold as ice. Her steely gaze was enough to intimidate people. <br /> <br /> "Ten eyes for an eye, and ten teeth for a single tooth," Rachel sneered. "As long as I live and breathe, I will hunt you down to the ends of the earth, and I will make you suffer for what you've done to me today!"<br /> <br /> For a moment, Alice was startled by her gaze, but she soon came to her senses. <br /> <br /> "Don't try to frighten me with that threat! Do you think a loser like you could scare me?" she said through gritted teeth. <br /> <br /> Right after she said that, Alice hit Rachel's face until it swelled up. <br /> <br /> Her anger was finally quenched when she got tired. She looked at Rachel dead in the eyes and said to the servants, "Didn't you hear Mr. Sullivan earlier?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, ma'am. He ordered us to remove her clothes and throw her out," a servant said, lowering her gaze. <br /> <br /> Alice massaged her sore wrist, smiling with satisfaction before she decided to strut away. <br /> <br /> Before long, the servants stripped Rachel down to her pelt, leaving only a set of silk underwear to cover her naked body. <br /> <br /> Unable to resist, Rachel closed her eyes and gave up struggling. She just let them do whatever they wanted to her. <br /> <br /> She knew very well that her survival was now the most important thing. <br /> <br /> The servants supported her on each side as they walked towards the door. <br /> <br /> After all, Rachel was once Victor's wife. Even though the servants loathed her, they still didn't want to bear witness to her embarrassment. Along the way, she didn't see anyone else besides the maids who were escorting her. <br /> <br /> Meanwhile, the butler knocked on the door of the study. <br /> <br /> "Come in," said Victor. <br /> <br /> The butler entered the room and said to him, "Mr. Sullivan, Mrs-Ms. Bennet had been thrown out as you've commanded."<br /> <br /> Victor was currently reading a contract, so he didn't raise his head when he replied, "Did she say anything?"<br /> <br /> "No," said the butler. <br /> <br /> With a snort, Victor thought of what Rachel had said earlier. His eyes brimmed with cruelty as he shut the folder and ordered, "Tell them to throw that woman as far as they can. Don't let that woman disgrace my doorstep."<br /> <br /> The butler was shocked to hear that. "Yes, sir," he answered reluctantly. <br /> <br /> Inside a cramped basement somewhere south of the city.<br /> <br /> "No!" Rachel suddenly woke up, sitting upright and screaming. She was breathing heavily and looking ahead in horror. <br /> <br /> Just then, someone pushed the door open from outside. Seeing that she was awake, the man set aside the medicine he had prepared and walked to the bed. <br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, you're finally awake," he said with concern. <br /> <br /> Rachel looked at him vigilantly, calming down at once. She tried to recall the man's name, because he looked familiar. However, she couldn't remember who he was at the moment. <br /> <br /> She looked down at her body and remembered that she had been thrown out of Victor's house; half-naked and almost dying. But now, she was still alive, sitting here in a tacky yet neat floral shirt with matching pants. <br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Rachel's voice was hoarse, and it seemed like she was wary of him. <br /> <br /> "We've met before, but you were still a child back then. It's normal that you don't remember me. I'm Andy Torres, your mother's private lawyer." The man smiled at her. <br /> <br /> 'Andy? Mom's lawyer?'<br /> <br /> Rachel remembered that her mother did have a lawyer. "Did you save me?"<br /> <br /> "I did. When I called you, a passerby answered the phone and said that you had fainted. But don't worry, I didn't see anything. The man who found you covered you with a coat, and then I carried you to my car and drove you back here," Andy explained. <br /> <br /> "Then, why am I wearing these clothes?"<br /> <br /> "Oh, I asked an old lady who lives next door to change it for you."<br /> <br /> Rachel breathed a sigh of relief, but she still frowned. "You mentioned that you called me. What for?"<br /> <br /> Her mother died when she was 13. Andy said that he was her mother's lawyer, but Rachel hadn't seen him for so many years. It was suspicious that he suddenly showed up this time. <br /> <br /> Andy got up and walked out of the room. Moments later, he returned with a document, and gave it to Rachel. <br /> <br /> "This is your mother's last will and testament," he said. <br /> <br /> "My mother's will?" Doubt filled Rachel's eyes. If she remembered correctly, her mother departed this world so suddenly that she didn't have the time to make a will. <br /> <br /> Otherwise, Rachel's useless father and his mistress wouldn't have been so reckless and high-profile. <br /> <br /> "Yes, she entrusted me to be the witness of her will when she was still alive. She told me to make this will public, and give it to you on your 24th birthday."<br /> <br /> Now that Andy had mentioned that, Rachel remembered that her birthday was the same day of her divorce with Victor. <br /> <br /> "It's clearly stated in this will that you will inherit all of your mother's assets, including fifteen percent of the Bennet Group's shares, and the villa she lived in before she died," Andy continued. <br /> <br /> Rachel turned to the last page and she saw the name "Elisa Bennet" on the bottom right corner of the paper. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Torres, how many days have I been unconscious?" asked Rachel. <br /> <br /> "Three days."<br /> <br /> She then put away the document and got out of bed. "In that case, they've been living comfortably for three more days. That's enough for them."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Rachel walked towards the door. <br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, where are you going?" asked Andy. <br /> <br /> Rachel stopped at the door, glancing at the will in her hand. She raised her eyebrows and smiled. <br /> <br /> "Where else? I'm going back home and kick out my father, his woman of a mistress, and their daughter!" With that, Rachel opened the door and strode out. <br /> <br /> Andy was taken aback by what she said for a moment. Somehow, he saw a glimpse of Elisa during her youth. <br /> <br /> As he watched Rachel walk away, Andy put on his suit jacket and followed her quickly. <br /> <br /> In the Bennet family's house, in the Riverside Villa District north of the city.<br /> <br /> Rachel and Andy stood in front of the door. They had been ringing the doorbell dozens of times, and yet nobody was answering. <br /> <br /> Annoyed by the constant ringing, finally the housekeeper trotted outside and shouted, "Stop it! Who is there? A debt collector or something? Stop ringing it! You're driving me crazy!"<br /> <br /> Right after she stopped talking, the housekeeper opened the side door and looked at the visitors with a frown. She was stunned to see who they were. <br /> <br /> Rachel put on a sardonic smile. "Well, we do have a debt to collect."<br /> <br /> "You... it's you!" The housekeeper's face turned pale, and a chill ran down her spine because of how intimidating Rachel looked. <br /> <br /> "What's wrong, Viola? Have you forgotten about me because you haven't seen me for a long time?" Rachel asked. <br /> <br /> Viola Lee swallowed hard nervously. For some reason, her feet felt cold. <br /> <br /> "Mi- Miss Rachel, you're back," she stammered. <br /> <br /> Rachel took a step forward. "That's right. I'm back, and I'm staying this time. Viola, go clean up my bedroom."<br /> <br /> Viola lowered her gaze and pursed her lips, unable to respond. 'Her bedroom?' Rachel didn't have a bedroom in this house anymore. Alice had already occupied her old bedroom. <br /> <br /> However, Viola didn't want to say that out loud. If this had happened in the past, she wouldn't have hesitated to say it. However, it looked like Rachel had changed so much. She had become a terrifying woman, and Viola was so scared of her that it felt difficult to breathe. <br /> <br /> "Who's home right now?" Rachel looked around and saw that the garden's layout hadn't changed in the past two years. Everything was the same as before. <br /> <br /> "Your father, his wife, and Miss Alice are all here," Viola replied. <br /> <br /> "Great! That saves me the effort of looking for them," Rachel said as she walked through the front yard and entered the house. <br /> <br /> Inside the living room.<br /> <br /> "Mom, which one looks better on me? This one or the previous one?" Alice asked, fiddling with the diamond necklace around her neck. <br /> <br /> "Silly girl, the other one is more expensive. You're going to attend Mr. Sullivan's banquet, so you should wear something more expensive." The middle-aged woman grabbed the necklace on the table. It was embedded with a sapphire, and it looked more expensive and exquisite. Gently, she put it around Alice's neck. <br /> <br /> Alice looked at the sapphire necklace and touched the gleaming gem. She couldn't resist the urge to smile at how beautiful it looked. <br /> <br /> She put down her hand, walking to the other end of the sofa, sat down next to a middle-aged man, and held his arm. <br /> <br /> "Dad, look at it! It's beautiful, isn't it?" Alice asked, blinking her beautiful eyes. <br /> <br /> Jack Jenkins looked at his daughter, caressing her head. "My daughter is the most beautiful woman in the world. No matter what you wear, you'll look divine!"<br /> <br /> Hearing that put a smile on Alice's face. "Dad, if mom hears you say that I'm the most beautiful in the world, she'll get jealous."<br /> <br /> Caroline Jenkins chimed in, "Why would I be jealous? You silly little girl. You enjoy making fun of me, don't you?"<br /> <br /> Amused, Jack held Caroline's hand and chuckled. "To me, you and your mother are the most beautiful women in existence."<br /> <br /> Alice leaned against his shoulder and smiled, while Caroline lowered her head because she felt a little shy to hear that. <br /> <br /> All of a sudden, they heard someone clapping. <br /> <br /> The happiness dissipated from their faces when they saw who was at the door. <br /> <br /> Rachel tilted her head and put down her hands. "What a happy family you all are. I am so moved by this scene. What about you, Mr. Torres?"<br /> <br /> On their way to this villa, Andy learned that Rachel had been suffering these past few years. Initially, he believed that even after Elisa's death, Rachel would live a comfortable life because she was the lady of a rich family, and she later married to Victor, a business tycoon. <br /> <br /> Andy was filled with rage when he saw how happy Jack and his new family were. He just stood there, looking at them with anger. <br /> <br /> "Rachel! What are you doing here?" Alice was the first to react. <br /> <br /> Rachel scoffed at her, walked to the sofa, and sat down. <br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Andy happened to hear Alice's question. He followed Rachel and stood behind her. <br /> <br /> "Miss Jenkins, this is Miss Bennet's house. If she wants to come back, she's permitted to do so whenever she wants."<br /> <br /> "Who do you think you are? Was I even talking to you?" Alice scolded Andy, and glared at him. <br /> <br /> Courteously, he replied, "I am her personal lawyer."<br /> <br /> Alice snorted with disdain. "Everyone is claiming to be a lawyer these days. Rachel, Victor has thrown you out of his house, and you have nowhere else to go. Do you think you can come back and live here just because you hired a lawyer? No way! Get out of here! You're not welcome in this household!"<br /> <br /> After saying that, Alice strode forward and tried to grab Rachel's arm, intending to drag her outside. <br /> <br /> But to her surprise, Rachel managed to dodge her. Seconds later, Alice felt a stinging sensation in her neck, causing her to groan in pain and cover her neck. <br /> <br /> Rachel, on the other hand, stood calmly as she held the necklace that Alice was wearing just now, albeit it had been stained with blood now. <br /> <br /> "Rachel Bennet! How dare you?" Alice lost her temper. She immediately tried to hit Rachel, but there was an imperceptible smile on Rachel's face. Just before Alice's hand could reach her face, Rachel grabbed Alice's wrist, and then she kicked her knee. And then she let go of her. <br /> <br /> Alice cried out in pain. <br /> <br /> She dropped to her knees, falling to the ground. <br /> <br /> "Alice!" Caroline quickly went to her daughter's side to help her up. She never imagined that this woman, Rachel, would dare to hit her daughter. <br /> <br /> Rachel looked at the necklace in her hand. "If I remember correctly, this necklace is supposed to be mine, right?"<br /> <br /> With a pale face, Alice gritted her teeth, trying to take back the necklace. "That's mine!"<br /> <br /> However, Rachel withdrew her hand, and sat back on the sofa. "This necklace is worth at least millions of dollars. Alice, didn't you tell me that you had no money to buy a dress worth only ten thousand dollars? You even manipulated me into buying it for you, remember? When did you become so rich to have a necklace like this?"<br /> <br /> That statement made Alice's face turn ghastly pale. "That's none of your business! The necklace is mine! Give it back, or I'm calling the police to arrest you for robbery!"<br /> <br /> Rachel crossed her legs, leaned back against the sofa, and didn't say anything for a moment. She just looked at the three of them in silence. <br /> <br /> Alice was scared by the way she was looking at them. She suddenly remembered what Rachel had told her three days ago. 'I will make you suffer for what you've done to me today!'<br /> <br /> "You see, sapphires are rare. That's why every sapphire is engraved with a special serial number with a laser. Alice, you said that this necklace is yours, so you must know what that serial number is, right?" Rachel said with derision. <br /> <br /> Alice was dumbfounded. The serial number? Did sapphires have numbers? How was she supposed to know that? She just took this necklace from Rachel's jewelry box that she left at home. <br /> <br /> Looking a bit guilty, Alice retorted, "Who will pay special attention to a stupid serial number when they buy a necklace? The number is too long to remember!"<br /> <br /> "Oh, you don't remember, do you?" Rachel didn't seem to care what Alice had said. She just put on a sardonic smile to mock her. <br /> <br /> "It's okay. Since you bought this necklace, you should have an appraisal certificate. The serial number is written on it too. Once the police come, just take out the certificate and show it to them."<br /> <br /> Alice began to panic. Hesitantly, she stammered, "I... I..."<br /> <br /> "What? Are you going to tell me that you lost the appraisal certificate?" Rachel saw through Alice's face, so she interrupted her and continued, "It's not a big deal if you lost the certificate. The police will look into it."<br /> <br /> Alice's face darkened. <br /> <br /> At this moment, Rachel paused when she noticed that Alice fell silent. Seconds later, she asked, "What's the matter? Didn't you want to call the police to arrest me for robbery? Go ahead, call them."<br /> &10&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-x	108394237578957	Fiction books	https://facebook.com/100075615382269	52,573	2	999,000,158,360,961	2024-07-04 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Fiction books	120210512244700031	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-xy-0720-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=200518&accid=6463366573788529&jump=1	2024-06-29 04:26	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449102523_393708263718258_2780855489888108140_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=90QQfd1qaK0Q7kNvgEVqbKF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCNpyqqBqtInvwIUK_pVb7k4c1GgomyG90y8nFrAaePKQ&oe=6692397C	person_profile	Fiction books	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449189404_1172791207198574_3994261385489483064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_YpaLoH4XoMQ7kNvgFWLseo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA0xdvh_Rc3DbsSzOZpN8umPX1-MiKfe6R6_dOT6y5ZzQ&oe=66925CC8	3	Fiction books	2024-06-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,914,088	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1914085}'	No	2024-07-08 19:21	active	1089	1137542673993370	Kids Bowl Free All Summer Long!	Kids Bowl Free All Summer Long! <br /> <br /> What is Kids Bowl Free? <br /> <br /> It's the FREE Summer Bowling program that provides 2 FREE games a day or time equivalent at participating bowling centers! <br /> <br /> Yes, 2 FREE games a day, all summer long. It's an amazing deal, valued at more than $500 per kid. <br /> <br /> It's Fast and Easy To Sign Up!<br /> <br /> Step 1: Choose Your Location<br /> <br /> Cactus Bowl - <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kidsbowlfree.com%2Fcenter.php%3Falley_id%3D5212&h=AT0YOX4lv2O-e_uPonypd4hMbFf1P5skHu0zbR5qsIu_fJApHa6M6IBypDm_uJShxXCcWtOu4YTIRPeX3eOkrMoWgIly1wY1cjMXCbXsl29XeYaod-BuA_85-8cktqctbb3yIonbW6r31AWyP3burLkQzxM" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="async">https://www.kidsbowlfree.com/center.php?alley_id=5212</a><br /> <br /> Tucson Bowl - <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kidsbowlfree.com%2Fcenter.php%3Falley_id%3D5215&h=AT2uS0Hsnxm4poaj2ps1T6hIXYPMx6Vc9xT-ydi1sg9LIqGUC0f-PVm5ZlBzB1f5CZHGrsezc_Pp-bpP6fvG25OZXAhqydb0CFAPLXwapsLGaq0CRnovb1E4HnD-zoxO-RKAae60W1R1Bw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.kidsbowlfree.com/center.php?alley_id=5215</a><br /> <br /> Step 2: Create an account for your kids<br /> <br /> Step 3: Enjoy a summer of FREE bowling! <br /> <br /> After you register, you'll access your coupons by downloading the Kids Bowl Free app; we'll send you an email with a link directly to our app. <br /> <br /> ...and don't forget to share this with friends and family who have kids and that you'd like to go bowling with this summer. <br /> <br /> We have participating locations around the globe, so even if they are out of state, there's a chance we have a location near them too. <br /> <br /> Over the past 16 years, more than 40 million kids have participated in the program, sign your family up today!	LEARN_MORE	https://www.kidsbowlfree.com/alley-group.php?path=	11580952276	Kids Bowl Free	https://facebook.com/kidsbowlfree	368,096	1	802,733,771,638,149	2024-07-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Learn more	Kids Bowl Free	6617475353051	KidsBowlFree.com	NONE	image	Sign your children up for 2 free games of bowling all summer long.	https://www.kidsbowlfree.com/alley-group.php?path=tripleshift	2024-07-08 14:03	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/450464733_8693552320659263_5219257132413160379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SAnuKHYCgz0Q7kNvgH7G74D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCLf4vQIpfV3Hc214uhuWSH7T4b8lb7q6oe-_R0Tl2dLA&oe=66924F8B	person_profile	Kids Bowl Free	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/450354543_1191150218978656_6970617380979652032_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lwD9jluxE6UQ7kNvgEiMly1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAbRGOm5VoKIWaim9wrZ-Z4HeE9l3itF7R38VILmlQW4g&oe=66926F46	3	Kids Bowl Free	2024-07-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,915,402	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1915421}'	Yes	2024-07-08 20:07	active	1089	322438287603785	Read next chapter	Upon awakening, she realizes she has reincarnated as a useless girl madly in love with her husband. However, her husband despises her and wishes for her demise. With determination, she firmly divorces him, vowing to make those who hurt her pay the price!<br /> =====<br /> "Rachel, you fking bch. GO TO HELL!"<br /> On the king-size bed, the man's face was a mask of fury, his black eyes burning with hate. The veins stood out on his forehead and his arms as he wrung the woman's slender neck.<br /> The woman was still half-asleep, but she could feel something was wrong. She couldn't breathe!<br /> She groggily opened her eyes, seeing the man in front of her was strangling her neck tightly, choking the life out of her. <br /> <br /> On top of the pain she already felt, she could feel a terrible headache coming on. Memories that didn't belong to her started flooding her senses.<br /> <br /> She had been reborn, from Shelia Davis to Rachel Bennet.<br /> <br /> As Rachel Bennet's lungs started screaming for air, her survival instinct kicked in. She raised her hands to her throat, trying to fend off her attacker.<br /> <br /> But the man wouldn't budge. <br /> <br /> Bam!<br /> <br /> The door was thrown open and the butler rushed in. His face paled at the sight before him, but he didn't lose a minute. <br /> <br /> He hurried to the bed and grabbed the man's arm, shouting, "Mr. Sullivan! Mr. Sullivan! Please let go of her! You're killing her!"<br /> <br /> "She deserves to die!" The man had an unhinged look in his eyes and spit came out of his mouth along with his words.<br /> <br /> The butler knew that couldn't stop the man physically, so he knelt by the bed and started begging for Rachel's life. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, please! If you kill her, your grandma will roll over in her grave. She won't be able to rest in peace!"<br /> <br /> Grandma?<br /> <br /> Hearing the butler's words, Victor Sullivan loosened his grip slightly.<br /> <br /> Rachel grabbed the opportunity to escape his grasp and crawl away. Her back hit the headboard and she stayed there curled in a ball, looking at Victor with wide, fearful eyes.<br /> <br /> The butler saw the change in Victor's attitude as a sign to keep pushing. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan, be patient! Today your divorce will become official. You will never see her again! Spare her life for her mother's sake. Her mother once saved your grandma, remember? Please calm down!"<br /> <br /> Victor seemed to see the reason behind his butler's words. He got out of bed, put on his pajamas in silence. When he was done, he turned around and spoke, in a voice cold as ice.<br /> <br /> "I'll tell Ivan to send the divorce papers here. Sign it and then get the hell out. I don't want to see your face ever again."<br /> <br /> With a final look filled with hatred, he left the room, followed by the butler.<br /> <br /> The door slammed behind him, the sound hurting Rachel's ears. She covered herself with the bedcovers, still in shock. Her face was deathly pale, her heart fluttering in her chest.<br /> <br /> The adrenaline coursing through her veins had dulled the pain until now. But when the worst had passed, Rachel felt that her entire body was sore. She hurt everywhere.<br /> <br /> Rachel couldn't find any women's clothes in the closet. It contained only men's shirts and black suits.<br /> <br /> She grabbed a shirt and a pair of suit pants and put them on. The pants were ridiculously large for her, dragging on the ground.<br /> <br /> Rachel slowly walked to the sofa and sat down. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes. <br /> <br /> After quietly sorting things out in her mind, she finally came to two conclusions.<br /> <br /> She really had been reborn.<br /> <br /> The one inhabiting this body was a worthless girl madly in love with Victor. Her mother had gotten sick and died a while ago and her father was a pathetic scumbag.<br /> <br /> There was a knock on the door.<br /> <br /> The sound startled Rachel out of her reverie. A cold voice came from the other side of the door. "May I come in?"<br /> <br /> She hastily rolled up the bottom of the pants and hurried to open the door. A tall and dull-looking man stood there, holding a stack of papers in his hand.<br /> <br /> "Ivan." Rachel quickly searched her memories and retrieved the man's name.<br /> <br /> His face expressionless, Ivan Chavez handed her the documents and a pen. "Mr. Sullivan asked me to see you out. As soon as you sign the divorce papers."<br /> <br /> Rachel glanced at the documents, recalling what the butler had said earlier. Today was the second wedding anniversary of Victor and Rachel, but from now on, it would also be the end of their marriage.<br /> <br /> Was the divorce agreement cooked up in less than an hour? Victor must really hate Rachel.<br /> <br /> She took the agreement and started turning pages, signing "Rachel Bennet" neatly wherever it was necessary. She was done in less than thirty seconds.<br /> <br /> "There you go," Rachel said, as she returned the papers to Ivan and clicked the pen.<br /> <br /> Ivan looked at her in astonishment, eyebrows raised. He didn't expect it to be so easy. When Victor asked him to bring over the agreement, he told Ivan that Rachel didn't want to sign it, so he might have to use force.<br /> <br /> "Don't you want to read it first?" Ivan said, still not reaching out to take the papers.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows and replied flatly, "No."<br /> <br /> "Aren't you curious about what you are getting out of this divorce?" Ivan was frowning now, looking more and more confused.<br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows while hitching up her pants. She flashed Ivan a smile. "There is no need to read it. I know that there are two possible outcomes. One is that I am in a world of debt and go bankrupt soon, and the other is that I have to leave this marriage without a penny. I am sure Victor put together a team of exceptional lawyers to work on the best option for him."<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes darkened. He took the divorce papers and said, "Mr. Sullivan just wants you to walk away without getting any of his assets."<br /> <br /> "Well, make sure you thank him on my behalf." Rachel really didn't give a shit about it at all. It was this body's former occupant that loved Victor, not her. She didn't even care if the man lived or died.<br /> <br /> She didn't want a violent man like him for a husband. A man that would strangle his own wife to death. She now had another chance to live and she intended to make the best of it.<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes fell on Rachel's neck.<br /> <br /> "Would you like me to call a doctor for you?"<br /> <br /> Rachel was at a loss for a moment. Then she remembered the bruises around her neck and raised her hand to touch them. The feeling of suffocation came back to her and she had to shake her head to get rid of it.<br /> <br /> "No, thanks. I'm fine. It's not that bad," she replied, shrugging.<br /> <br /> "Then please pack your things." Ivan's tone was back to normal: cold and businesslike.<br /> <br /> She nodded and left Victor's bedroom barefoot, still pulling up her pants. She had a long way to go to reach her own bedroom. Victor hated Rachel so much that he didn't even want to bump into her in the corridor, so her room was all the way to the other side of the huge house.<br /> <br /> It took her nearly two minutes to get there.<br /> <br /> Her bedroom had originally been a storage room, but soon after Rachel and Victor's wedding, Rachel moved in here. She pushed the door open and walked through the narrow doorway nimbly.<br /> <br /> The room was really small. It only contained a bed and a dressing table, the furniture was so close together that there was no room to walk around properly.<br /> <br /> Rachel didn't have much to pack. Except for her cosmetics strewn all over the dressing table and a few clothes, she didn't have much else. She changed into her own clothes and stuffed the rest of her things into a suitcase.<br /> <br /> "Okay, I'm all packed. I'm leaving now. I hope I will never see you again, Ivan! Goodbye!" Rachel said in a carefree, cool voice as she dragged her suitcase across the hall.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, where do you think you are going?" Suddenly, the elevator doors slid open, revealing a woman in a business suit. Her high heels clicked on the marble floor, the sound crisp and curt, matching her sharp voice perfectly.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Alice Gave Her A Hard Time<br /> Rachel stopped to look at the woman approaching her.<br /> <br /> "Alice?" Alice Jenkins was her half-sister, a veritable two-faced bch.<br /> <br /> As she stood in front of Rachel, Alice grinned. "My dear sister, are you moving out?"<br /> <br /> Rachel rolled her eyes at her, and put on a fake smile. "It's been so long since we last saw each other. Why do you still like asking dumb questions so much? "<br /> <br /> Her remark left Alice livid. But she soon suppressed her anger, changing into an innocent expression again.<br /> <br /> "I'm just trying to show you some concern. How can you think of me that way?"<br /> <br /> Concern?<br /> <br /> Tha was funny. She just wanted to mock her.<br /> <br /> With a face devoid of emotion, Ivan intervened in their conversation. He reminded Rachel, "Mrs. Sullivan, it's time for you to leave. Mr. Sullivan is about to come back."<br /> <br /> The corners of her mouth twitched. She pointed at Alice and said to Ivan, "It's not that I don't want to leave; it's just that there's a mad dog blocking my path. I'm afraid that she'll bite me."<br /> <br /> Ivan was rendered speechless.<br /> <br /> Alice began to shed crocodile tears. "Rachel, I know you're getting divorced today. I was really worried that you'll be sad, so I left my work early to come to see you. How... How could you say that to me? I'm your sister."<br /> <br /> "Shut up! I don't have a dog for a sister." Rachel quickly distanced herself from Alice, and turned to Ivan again. "Ivan, shall we?"<br /> <br /> His temples began to ache, and he failed to maintain his stern expression for a moment. Left with no other choice, he said to Alice, "Miss Jenkins, please excuse us."<br /> <br /> Alice bit her lower lip. Her eyes were fiery with rage at this moment, but they were covered by her bangs.<br /> <br /> "Ivan, an untrained dog cannot comprehend human language," Rachel said to taunt her.<br /> <br /> That remark made Alice fume with rage. She clenched her fists, and glared at Rachel.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing Alice restrain her anger, Rachel tilted her head a little, smiling to vex Alice even more.<br /> <br /> The arrogant smile on Rachel's face annoyed Alice.<br /> <br /> 'What the hell is going on? Rachel is usually timid, and she's always obedient and grateful to me. Why did her personality turn upside down?'<br /> <br /> "Miss Jenkins," Ivan called out; his voice held a hint of impatience.<br /> <br /> Alice pressed her lips, hiding her suspicions. "Ivan, I'm not implying that I don't want my sister to leave. It's just that Victor asked me to see how things are going here."<br /> <br /> Both Ivan and Rachel were surprised to hear that.<br /> <br /> "Victor knew that I was coming here, so he specifically told me to watch Rachel pack up and leave. He said that according to the divorce agreement, Rachel wasn't allowed to take anything that belongs to the Sullivan family. I'm just here to make sure she upholds the agreement." Alice looked at the suitcase beside Rachel.<br /> <br /> "So, Rachel, could you please open your suitcase? I need to check if you took anything that doesn't belong to you."<br /> <br /> Rachel frowned at that. "It only contains a few clothes. I didn't take anything that belongs to the Sullivans!"<br /> <br /> Alice grabbed the suitcase from her and said, "I'm afraid it's not up to you to decide. If you didn't take anything inappropriate with you, why are you so afraid of letting me see the contents of your suitcase?"<br /> <br /> After that, she laid the suitcase on the ground and opened it.<br /> <br /> Inside it, several clothes had been piled up in a mess. It seemed that Rachel really didn't take anything valuable with her.<br /> <br /> Alice gritted her teeth. She didn't expect that Rachel was telling the truth. Unwilling to let her go so easily, Alice rummaged through the clothes. It was as if she wasn't going to stop until she had found a piece of evidence that could prove Rachel had stolen something from the Sullivans.<br /> <br /> The only contents of the suitcase were Rachel's clothes and cosmetics, and yet Alice kept rummaging through the suitcase for over ten minutes.<br /> <br /> "Are you done checking?" Rachel glanced down at Alice.<br /> <br /> "I'm just following Victor's orders. It's better to check thoroughly," Alice replied softly.<br /> <br /> "Fine. Go ahead and check those clothes for as long as you want. I don't want them anymore." Rachel shook her head. The bruises on her body still hadn't healed yet. She really didn't want to waste any more time with Alice, and she didn't want to wait for Victor to come back and try to strangle her again.<br /> <br /> Now that she had said her piece, Rachel walked past Alice and towards the elevator and pushed the button. Ivan followed suit.<br /> <br /> Ding!<br /> <br /> Before long, the elevator arrived at the third floor. The sliding doors opened slowly. Just before Rachel could walk in, she suddenly felt a chill. The temperature around her dropped several degrees, making her shiver and stop in her tracks.<br /> <br /> The first thing she saw was a pair of shiny leather shoes. When she raised her head, she caught sight of Victor's aloof face.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan." Ivan was the first to react, bowing his head respectfully.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, it seems that you've forgotten what I told you this morning." There was a flash of warning in Victor's eyes, and he sounded ill-tempered.<br /> <br /> The second she saw him, Rachel thought of how Victor choked her this morning. She trembled with fear, wary of what he might do to her.<br /> <br /> Standing in attention, she said, "No, I remember."<br /> <br /> "Oh, you do? Then why the hell are you still here?" Victor asked, striding towards her.<br /> <br /> Rachel kept pacing backwards until her back was against the wall. She closed her eyes for a second and then braced herself to look into his eyes.<br /> <br /> "You should ask Alice. I was about to leave, but she appeared out of nowhere and delayed me. That's why I..."<br /> <br /> Rachel was half-way to finishing her explanation when Alice suddenly interrupted her.<br /> <br /> "How could you lie like that?" she asked with tearful eyes.<br /> <br /> "I'm not lying!" At this moment, Rachel was cursing Alice in her head. If it weren't for this woman, she would've left an hour ago, and she wouldn't have run into Victor.<br /> <br /> Damn it.<br /> <br /> As if she was about to break into tears, Alice said, "Victor, I didn't mean to delay Rachel's departure. I was just following your orders to check her luggage. I'm afraid that she'll steal your stuff. My sister revels in lying. I didn't expect that she'd lie again this time."<br /> <br /> Alice's words reminded Victor of everything that Rachel had done, making him look more sullen than usual. "Do you honestly think I won't try to kill you?"<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, he strangled Rachel with his hand, slamming her head against the wall. She didn't see that coming, but she managed to grab Victor's hand instinctively. The pain coming from the back of her head made her dizzy.<br /> <br /> "Vic... Victor!" Rachel called out with difficulty.<br /> <br /> "How dare you test my patience over and over?" said Victor.<br /> <br /> With every passing second, Rachel was losing her consciousness. She couldn't break free from Victor's grasp at all.<br /> <br /> Upon seeing the situation, Ivan decided to intervene. He hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Mr. Sullivan, if something happens to Mrs. Sullivan, those bastards in the board of directors will use that against you. If that happens, your plan of concentrating equity will be hampered."<br /> <br /> "Fk off!" Victor roared. His fingers that were gripping Rachel's neck turned pale because of how strong he was gripping her.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 I Will Haunt You Forever<br /> As much as he worried about Rachel, Ivan didn't dare to talk back to Victor again.<br /> <br /> She didn't want to die.<br /> <br /> She used the last of her strength to push Victor's hand away. Once she was able to catch her breath a little, she stared at him; her eyes turning red.<br /> <br /> "If I die here and now, then I will die as your wife; still a member of the Sullivans. Someday, when you die, you will be buried next to me, and I will haunt you beyond the afterlife!"<br /> <br /> Rachel said those words with difficulty; her face had turned red due to the suffocation. Gradually, Rachel had no strength to struggle. Little by little, she could feel her consciousness slipping.<br /> <br /> "Who do you think you are? You don't deserve to be buried in my family's mausoleum." Victor sounded indifferent. "If you die, I'll cremate your body and throw the ashes into a bin. A woman like you deserves to rest with the rubbish!"<br /> <br /> Rachel burst into laughter.<br /> <br /> "Why are you laughing?" Victor asked.<br /> <br /> "Even if you throw my ashes into a bin, it won't change the fact that I'm your legal wife, and I'm part of your family tree. You loathe me, don't you? Sorry, but you'll never get rid of me, even if I die!"<br /> <br /> Victor stared daggers at her as he strengthened his grip, lifting her in midair. Consequently, Rachel yelped in pain, and tears rolled down her cheeks.<br /> <br /> Just when she was hallucinating of the shameless couple in her previous life, Victor suddenly let go of her.<br /> <br /> Rachel fell to the ground. She felt like every bone in her body had been broken, and even the slightest movement made her groan in pain.<br /> <br /> "Ahem! Ahem!" She coughed violently and gasped for air, breathing with so much difficulty.<br /> <br /> Ivan glanced at Rachel indifferently and lowered his head. "Mr. Sullivan, it's all my fault. I didn't urge her to leave in time. I'm willing to suffer the consequences."<br /> <br /> Alice turned pale with fear as she watched Victor beat up Rachel. She got down on her knees and begged, "Victor, I... This is my fault! I didn't check Rachel's suitcase faster. That's why she had the opportunity to lie and buy time for herself."<br /> <br /> Rachel could feel her chest tightening as she coughed over and over.<br /> <br /> "I didn't take anything that belongs to you," she said in a hoarse voice.<br /> <br /> Victor took out some wet wipes to clean his hand that had touched Rachel's neck. Disgust was evident on his face.<br /> <br /> "You didn't take anything? You bought all your clothes using my money. How dare you say that you didn't take my stuff?"<br /> <br /> Rachel pursed her lips, unable to refute his logic. On her wedding day, Alice had burned all the clothes that Rachel had bought herself. Alice said that her clothes were too vulgar, and Victor probably wouldn't want to see her wearing them.<br /> <br /> "Take off her clothes and throw her out!" After saying that, Victor left along with Ivan without hesitation.<br /> <br /> Only when those two had left did Alice get up and walk towards Rachel. Her previous ostensibly tenderness had now disappeared.<br /> <br /> "Rachel, you married Victor and slept with him, but so what? In the end, he kicked you out! You wanted to make him fall in love with you, didn't you? That's never going to happen! Do you really think I asked you to wear heavy makeup and put on weight because Victor likes it? This is hilarious. I can't believe you actually fell for that. No man will ever like a fat and idiotic woman like you! I was messing with you. I just wanted to make him hate you even more!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's face turned ghastly pale. When she heard what Alice said, she didn't even look at her. She was indifferent to Alice's words and did not seem to hear her provocation.<br /> <br /> Seeing that Rachel wasn't responding, Alice gritted her teeth in anger. "Why are you looking at me like that?"<br /> <br /> "Huh! You're so pathetic." Rachel chuckled, trying to endure the pain.<br /> <br /> She was sure that she had suffered an internal injury. Just the act of talking was painful enough to make her feel like her organs were being twisted together.<br /> <br /> But she couldn't afford to show any sign of weakness. Otherwise, Alice would revel in torturing her. Evil was in that woman's nature.<br /> <br /> "What did you say?" Alice's eyes widened in surprise. When Rachel sneered at her, she was goaded.<br /> <br /> "I said," Rachel took a deep breath to alleviate the pain in her chest. "You are living a miserable, ridiculous life. You're the most pathetic person I've ever met! Being called a bastard must make you feel inferior, doesn't it? You've been trying your best to steal everything I had since we were kids, because I'm the Bennet family's legitimate daughter, and you're just a dirty little bastard. You are always unpresentable!"<br /> <br /> "Bch! Shut the fk up!" Alice screamed. It seemed that Rachel had struck a sore spot.<br /> <br /> Rachel grinned and continued, "These past two years, I trusted you, and yet you deceived me by taking advantage of my desire to draw Victor's attention. You fooled me into doing stupid things in front of him, so that he would loathe me. At first, he didn't feel anything for me, and then he began to hate me. And now, he's too disgusted to even lay eyes on me. You must be proud of this accomplishment, aren't you?"<br /> <br /> Alice clenched her fists, looking at Rachel with hatred. "Well, you should blame yourself for being so stupid!"<br /> <br /> "You're right. I was stupid," Rachel admitted. Right now, she felt ashamed for what she had done in the past two years.<br /> <br /> Despite being the daughter of a rich and powerful family, she had lived a pathetic life. How did she end up this way?<br /> <br /> "You have a clear estimation of yourself." The look on Alice's face made it seem like she was the winner between them.<br /> <br /> "I almost died, and that's enough to wake me up. I'm not stupid like you after all." Rachel wanted to make sure that she didn't have any broken bones, so she propped herself up using her hands. However, the pain was far too much for her to bear, so she fell down once more.<br /> <br /> Sweat dripped down her forehead as she groaned in pain; her hands, pressing against the hard floor. The veins on the back of her hands were bulging because she was exerting every ounce of strength she could muster.<br /> <br /> Alice's face turned grim.<br /> <br /> "Your end is near, Rachel. How dare you talk to me like that? Remember, you are no longer Victor's wife, and are therefore no longer part of the Sullivan family! His grandmother is dead now, so there's no one left to protect you! If you have a brain in that empty head of yours, you should kneel down and beg me to persuade our father to allow you to go home!"<br /> <br /> When Alice mentioned Victor's grandmother, a faraway look appeared on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Victor's grandmother was the one who chose Rachel to be his wife. Not long after she married into the Sullivan family, the old lady died of illness. His grandmother used to be Rachel's protector when she was still alive. During that time, Rachel lived a dignified life within the Sullivan family's residence.<br /> <br /> "Do you think you'll be able to marry Victor and share the Sullivan Group with him after I divorce him?"<br /> <br /> Upon hearing that, Alice stood proudly. "You were able to do it, so I probably can as well."<br /> <br /> "You can't," Rachel said in a weak, yet firm tone. "Why are you so confident that Victor will agree to marry you? Just because he's also an illegitimate child, you think you're good enough to be his wife?<br /> <br /> Your mother is a mistress; a home-wrecker! Unlike you, Victor was born before his father even got married. And his mother never destroyed the man's marriage later!<br /> <br /> With that being said, you will never deserve to be Victor's wife," said Rachel.<br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Will And Testament<br /> Alice's fingernails were digging into her palms, and her chest was heaving up and down due to the anger she was feeling.<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, she pulled Rachel up and slapped her face.<br /> <br /> The slap left a palm print on Rachel's face.<br /> <br /> Blood oozed from the corner of her mouth. Obviously, Alice didn't hold back when she slapped Rachel.<br /> <br /> Gnashing her teeth, Alice said to the servants, "You two, hold her up!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's vision was fading because of how hard she had gotten hit. The servants didn't dawdle, and they immediately followed Alice's command. Each of them held one of Rachel's arms to restrict her.<br /> <br /> With a murderous gaze, Alice clasped Rachel's chin, forcing her to raise her head.<br /> <br /> The imprint of an open hand was evident on the right side of her face; it was red and swollen. Once more, Alice raised her hand and snarled, "You're quite glib, aren't you? Say something again, I dare you!"<br /> <br /> "Alice, do you know what my life motto is?" Rachel spat out a mouthful of blood, trying her best to keep her eyes open. Her almond-shaped eyes looked as cold as ice. Her steely gaze was enough to intimidate people.<br /> <br /> "Ten eyes for an eye, and ten teeth for a single tooth," Rachel sneered. "As long as I live and breathe, I will hunt you down to the ends of the earth, and I will make you suffer for what you've done to me today!"<br /> <br /> For a moment, Alice was startled by her gaze, but she soon came to her senses.<br /> <br /> "Don't try to frighten me with that threat! Do you think a loser like you could scare me?" she said through gritted teeth.<br /> <br /> Right after she said that, Alice hit Rachel's face until it swelled up.<br /> <br /> Her anger was finally quenched when she got tired. She looked at Rachel dead in the eyes and said to the servants, "Didn't you hear Mr. Sullivan earlier?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, ma'am. He ordered us to remove her clothes and throw her out," a servant said, lowering her gaze.<br /> <br /> Alice massaged her sore wrist, smiling with satisfaction before she decided to strut away.<br /> <br /> Before long, the servants stripped Rachel down to her pelt, leaving only a set of silk underwear to cover her naked body.<br /> <br /> Unable to resist, Rachel closed her eyes and gave up struggling. She just let them do whatever they wanted to her.<br /> <br /> She knew very well that her survival was now the most important thing.<br /> <br /> The servants supported her on each side as they walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> After all, Rachel was once Victor's wife. Even though the servants loathed her, they still didn't want to bear witness to her embarrassment. Along the way, she didn't see anyone else besides the maids who were escorting her.<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, the butler knocked on the door of the study.<br /> <br /> "Come in," said Victor.<br /> <br /> The butler entered the room and said to him, "Mr. Sullivan, Mrs-Ms. Bennet had been thrown out as you've commanded."<br /> <br /> Victor was currently reading a contract, so he didn't raise his head when he replied, "Did she say anything?"<br /> <br /> "No," said the butler.<br /> <br /> With a snort, Victor thought of what Rachel had said earlier. His eyes brimmed with cruelty as he shut the folder and ordered, "Tell them to throw that bch as far as they can. Don't let that woman disgrace my doorstep."<br /> <br /> The butler was shocked to hear that. "Yes, sir," he answered reluctantly.<br /> <br /> Inside a cramped basement somewhere south of the city...<br /> <br /> "No!" Rachel suddenly woke up, sitting upright and screaming. She was breathing heavily and looking ahead in horror.<br /> <br /> Just then, someone pushed the door open from outside. Seeing that she was awake, the man set aside the medicine he had prepared and walked to the bed.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, you're finally awake," he said with concern.<br /> <br /> Rachel looked at him vigilantly, calming down at once. She tried to recall the man's name, because he looked familiar. However, she couldn't remember who he was at the moment.<br /> <br /> She looked down at her body and remembered that she had been thrown out of Victor's house; half-naked and almost dying. But now, she was still alive, sitting here in a tacky yet neat floral shirt with matching pants.<br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Rachel's voice was hoarse, and it seemed like she was wary of him.<br /> <br /> "We've met before, but you were still a child back then. It's normal that you don't remember me. I'm Andy Torres, your mother's private lawyer." The man smiled at her.<br /> <br /> 'Andy? Mom's lawyer?'<br /> <br /> Rachel remembered that her mother did have a lawyer. "Did you save me?"<br /> <br /> "I did. When I called you, a passerby answered the phone and said that you had fainted. But don't worry, I didn't see anything. The man who found you covered you with a coat, and then I carried you to my car and drove you back here," Andy explained.<br /> <br /> "Then, why am I wearing these clothes?"<br /> <br /> "Oh, I asked an old lady who lives next door to change it for you."<br /> <br /> Rachel breathed a sigh of relief, but she still frowned. "You mentioned that you called me. What for?"<br /> <br /> Her mother died when she was 13. Andy said that he was her mother's lawyer, but Rachel hadn't seen him for so many years. It was suspicious that he suddenly showed up this time.<br /> <br /> Andy got up and walked out of the room. Moments later, he returned with a document, and gave it to Rachel.<br /> <br /> "This is your mother's last will and testament," he said.<br /> <br /> "My mother's will?" Doubt filled Rachel's eyes. If she remembered correctly, her mother departed this world so suddenly that she didn't have the time to make a will.<br /> <br /> Otherwise, Rachel's useless father and his mistress wouldn't have been so reckless and high-profile.<br /> <br /> "Yes, she entrusted me to be the witness of her will when she was still alive. She told me to make this will public, and give it to you on your 24th birthday."<br /> <br /> Now that Andy had mentioned that, Rachel remembered that her birthday was the same day of her divorce with Victor.<br /> <br /> "It's clearly stated in this will that you will inherit all of your mother's assets, including fifteen percent of the Bennet Group's shares, and the villa she lived in before she died," Andy continued.<br /> <br /> Rachel turned to the last page and she saw the name "Elisa Bennet" on the bottom right corner of the paper.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Torres, how many days have I been unconscious?" asked Rachel.<br /> <br /> "Three days."<br /> <br /> She then put away the document and got out of bed. "In that case, they've been living comfortably for three more days. That's enough for them."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Rachel walked towards the door.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, where are you going?" asked Andy.<br /> <br /> Rachel stopped at the door, glancing at the will in her hand. She raised her eyebrows and smiled.<br /> <br /> "Where else? I'm going back home and kick out my father, his bch of a mistress, and their daughter!" With that, Rachel opened the door and strode out.<br /> <br /> Andy was taken aback by what she said for a moment. Somehow, he saw a glimpse of Elisa during her youth.<br /> <br /> As he watched Rachel walk away, Andy put on his suit jacket and followed her quickly.<br /> <br /> In the Bennet family's house, in the Riverside Villa District north of the city...<br /> <br /> Rachel and Andy stood in front of the door. They had been ringing the doorbell dozens of times, and yet nobody was answering.<br /> <br /> Annoyed by the constant ringing, finally the housekeeper trotted outside and shouted, "Stop it! Who is there? A debt collector or something? Stop ringing it! You're driving me crazy!"<br /> <br /> Right after she stopped talking, the housekeeper opened the side door and looked at the visitors with a frown. She was stunned to see who they were.<br /> <br /> "You... it's you!" The housekeeper's face turned pale, and a chill ran down her spine because of how intimidating Rachel looked.<br /> <br /> Rachel put on a sardonic smile. "Well, we do have a debt to collect."<br /> <br /> ......<br /> <br /> ====<br /> Her fiance and her best friend worked together and set her up. She lost everything and died in the street. However, she was reborn. <br /> <br /> The moment she opened her eyes, her husband was trying to strangle her. Luckily, she survived that. She signed the divorce agreement without hesitation and was ready for her miserable life. <br /> <br /> To her surprise, her mother in this life left her a great deal of money. She prepared to turn the tables and aveng herself...<br /> <br /> What happens next? <br /> <br /> Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters <br /> (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app)<br /> &18&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-x	108394237578957	Fiction books	https://facebook.com/100075615382269	52,573	1	1,525,092,288,422,284	2024-07-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Fiction books	120211332976400416	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-xy-0720-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=060236&accid=1955749504828214	2024-07-02 04:02	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449629520_3469100880048853_63177549837865536_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6kJAFn1wvnkQ7kNvgH7iFNL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCq_3QHbI9LQOhLp9sQ0Gi8QUqKYs7X9jjqPt9hKILs0w&oe=66925D4E	person_profile	Fiction books	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449621301_1251572652480016_1314338721550361152_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XPQRHXkt9mQQ7kNvgEU58v-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBRH-SnQo1nCbaU43qdLY75VxZf5T7iLeHENmGY0SYa0Q&oe=66926830	3	Fiction books	2024-07-06 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,915,461	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1915466}'	Yes	2024-07-08 20:08	active	1089	1150242576266593	Captivation: Want Nothing But You	"Take off her clothes and throw her out! "<br /> <br /> "Tell them to throw that woman as far as they can. Don't let that woman disgrace my doorstep."<br /> <br /> Three days later<br /> <br /> "No!" Rachel suddenly woke up, sitting upright and screaming.<br /> <br /> Just then, someone pushed the door open from outside.<br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, you're finally awake," he said with concern. <br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Rachel's voice was hoarse. <br /> <br /> "We've met before, but you were still a child back then. It's normal that you don't remember me. I'm Andy Torres, your mother's private lawyer." The man smiled at her. <br /> <br /> 'Andy? Mom's lawyer?'<br /> <br /> "Did you save me?"<br /> <br /> "I did. When I called you, a passerby answered the phone and said that you had fainted."<br /> <br /> "You mentioned that you called me. What for?"<br /> <br /> Andy got up and walked out of the room. Moments later, he returned with a document, and gave it to Rachel. <br /> <br /> "This is your mother's last will and testament," he said. <br /> <br /> "My mother's will?" Doubt filled Rachel's eyes.<br /> <br /> "Yes, she entrusted me to be the witness of her will when she was still alive. She told me to make this will public, and give it to you on your 24th birthday."<br /> <br /> "It's clearly stated in this will that you will inherit all of your mother's assets, including fifteen percent of the Bennet Group's shares, and the villa she lived in before she died," Andy continued. <br /> <br /> Rachel turned to the last page and she saw the name "Elisa Bennet" on the bottom right corner of the paper. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Torres, how many days have I been unconscious?" asked Rachel. <br /> <br /> "Three days."<br /> <br /> She then put away the document and got out of bed. "In that case, they've been living comfortably for three more days. That's enough for them."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Rachel walked towards the door. <br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, where are you going?" asked Andy. <br /> <br /> Rachel stopped at the door, glancing at the will in her hand. She raised her eyebrows and smiled. <br /> <br /> "Where else? I'm going back home and kick out my father, his woman of a mistress, and their daughter!" With that, Rachel opened the door and strode out. <br /> <br /> ---<br /> On the king-size bed, the man's face was a mask of fury, his black eyes burning with hate. The veins stood out on his forehead and his arms as he wrung the woman's slender neck. <br /> <br /> The woman was still half-asleep, but she could feel something was wrong. She couldn't breathe! <br /> <br /> Rachel Bennet opened her eyes wide, still groggy from sleep. She felt a pair of hands on her neck, choking the life out of her. She was confused and consumed by fear and panic. <br /> <br /> As her lungs started screaming for air, her survival instinct kicked in. She raised her hands to her throat, trying to fend off her attacker. <br /> <br /> But the man wouldn't budge. Instead, he tightened his grip on her neck, causing her face to turn a deep red and her vision to blur. <br /> <br /> Bam! <br /> <br /> The door was thrown open and the butler rushed in. His face paled at the sight before him, but he didn't lose a minute. He hurried to the bed and grabbed the man's arm, shouting, "Mr. Sullivan! Mr. Sullivan! Please let go of her! You're killing her!"<br /> <br /> "She deserves to die!" The man had an unhinged look in his eyes and spit came out of his mouth along with his words. <br /> <br /> The butler knew that couldn't stop the man physically, so he knelt by the bed and started begging for Rachel's life. "Mr. Sullivan, please! If you kill her, your grandma will roll over in her grave. She won't be able to rest in peace!"<br /> <br /> Grandma? <br /> <br /> Hearing the butler's words, Victor Sullivan loosened his grip slightly. <br /> <br /> Rachel grabbed the opportunity to escape his grasp and crawl away. Her back hit the headboard and she stayed there curled in a ball, looking at Victor with wide, fearful eyes. <br /> <br /> The butler saw the change in Victor's attitude as a sign to keep pushing. "Mr. Sullivan, be patient! Today your divorce will become official. You will never see Mrs. Sullivan again! Spare her life for her mother’s sake. Her mother once saved your grandma, remember? Please calm down!"<br /> <br /> Victor seemed to see the reason behind his butler's words. He got out of bed, put on his pajamas in silence. When he was done, he turned around and spoke, in a voice cold as ice. <br /> <br /> "I'll tell Ivan to send the divorce papers here. Sign it and then get out. I don't want to see your face ever again."<br /> <br /> With a final look filled with hatred, he left the room, followed by the butler. <br /> <br /> The door slammed behind him, the sound hurting Rachel's ears. She covered herself with the bedcovers, still in shock. Her face was deathly pale, her heart fluttering in her chest. <br /> <br /> She lowered her head and looked at her body. She was completely naked and dark bruises marred her otherwise flawless skin. <br /> <br /> The adrenaline coursing through her veins had dulled the pain until now. But when the worst had passed, Rachel felt that her entire body was sore. She hurt everywhere. <br /> <br /> Rachel couldn't find any women's clothes in the closet. It contained only men's shirts and black suits. <br /> <br /> She grabbed a shirt and a pair of suit pants and put them on. Th e pants were ridiculously large for her, dragging on the ground. <br /> <br /> On top of the pain she already felt, she could feel a terrible headache coming on. Groaning, she walked to the sofa and sat down. She leaned her head back and closed her eyes. Memories that didn't belong to her started flooding her senses. <br /> <br /> Moments later, she opened her eyes again. Those memories belonged to the former owner of this body, the woman named Rachel. After quietly sorting things out in her mind, she finally came to two conclusions. <br /> <br /> She had been reborn, from Shelia Davis to Rachel Bennet. <br /> <br /> The one inhabiting this body before her was a worthless girl madly in love with Victor. Her mother had gotten sick and died a while ago and her father was a pathetic scumbag. <br /> <br /> There was a knock on the door. <br /> <br /> The sound startled Rachel out of her reverie. A cold voice came from the other side of the door. "May I come in?"<br /> <br /> She hastily rolled up the bottom of the pants and hurried to open the door. A tall and dull-looking man stood there, holding a stack of papers in his hand. <br /> <br /> "Ivan." Rachel quickly searched her memories and retrieved the man's name. <br /> <br /> His face expressionless, Ivan Chavez handed her the documents and a pen. "Mr. Sullivan asked me to see you out. As soon as you sign the divorce papers."<br /> <br /> Rachel glanced at the documents, recalling what the butler had said earlier. Today was the second wedding anniversary of Victor and Rachel, but from now on, it would also be the end of their marriage. <br /> <br /> Was the divorce agreement cooked up in less than an hour? Victor must really hate Rachel.<br /> <br /> She took the agreement and started turning pages, signing "Rachel Bennet" neatly wherever it was necessary. She was done in less than thirty seconds. <br /> <br /> "There you go," Rachel said, as she returned the papers to Ivan and clicked the pen. <br /> <br /> Ivan looked at her in astonishment, eyebrows raised. He didn't expect it to be so easy. When Victor asked him to bring over the agreement, he told Ivan that Rachel didn't want to sign it, so he might have to use force. <br /> <br /> "Don't you want to read it first?" Ivan said, still not reaching out to take the papers. <br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows and replied flatly, "No."<br /> <br /> "Aren't you curious about what you are getting out of this divorce?" Ivan was frowning now, looking more and more confused. <br /> <br /> Rachel raised her eyebrows while hitching up her pants. She flashed Ivan a smile. "There is no need to read it. I know that there are two possible outcomes. One is that I am in a world of debt and go bankrupt soon, and the other is that I have to leave this marriage without a penny. I am sure Victor put together a team of exceptional lawyers to work on the best option for him."<br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes darkened. He took the divorce papers and said, "Mr. Sullivan just wants you to walk away without getting any of his assets."<br /> <br /> "Well, make sure you thank him on my behalf." Rachel really didn't give a shit about it at all. It was this body's former occupant that loved Victor, not her. She didn't even care if the man lived or died. <br /> <br /> She didn't want a violent man like him for a husband. A man that would strangle his own wife to death. She now had another chance to live and she intended to make the best of it. <br /> <br /> Ivan's eyes fell on Rachel's neck. <br /> <br /> "Would you like me to call a doctor for you?"<br /> <br /> Rachel was at a loss for a moment. Then she remembered the bruises around her neck and raised her hand to touch them. The feeling of suffocation came back to her and she had to shake her head to get rid of it. <br /> <br /> "No, thanks. I'm fine. It's not that bad," she replied, shrugging. <br /> <br /> "Then please pack your things." Ivan's tone was back to normal: cold and businesslike. <br /> <br /> She nodded and left Victor's bedroom barefoot, still pulling up her pants. She had a long way to go to reach her own bedroom. Victor hated Rachel so much that he didn't even want to bump into her in the corridor, so her room was all the way to the other side of the huge house. <br /> <br /> It took her nearly two minutes to get there. <br /> <br /> Her bedroom had originally been a storage room, but soon after Rachel and Victor's wedding, Rachel moved in here. She pushed the door open and walked through the narrow doorway nimbly. <br /> <br /> The room was really small. It only contained a bed and a dressing table, the furniture was so close together that there was no room to walk around properly. <br /> <br /> Rachel didn't have much to pack. Except for her cosmetics strewn all over the dressing table and a few clothes, she didn't have much else. She changed into her own clothes and stuffed the rest of her things into a suitcase. <br /> <br /> "Okay, I'm all packed. I'm leaving now. I hope I will never see you again, Ivan! Goodbye!" Rachel said in a carefree, cool voice as she dragged her suitcase across the hall. <br /> <br /> "Rachel, where do you think you are going?" Suddenly, the elevator doors slid open, revealing a woman in a business suit. Her high heels clicked on the marble floor, the sound crisp and curt, matching her sharp voice perfectly. <br /> <br /> Rachel stopped to look at the woman approaching her. <br /> <br /> "Alice?" <br /> <br /> Alice Jenkins was her half-sister, a veritable two-faced woman. <br /> <br /> As she stood in front of Rachel, Alice grinned. "My dear sister, are you moving out?"<br /> <br /> Rachel rolled her eyes at her, and put on a fake smile. "It's been so long since we last saw each other. Why do you still like asking dumb questions so much? Does a bear shit in the woods?"<br /> <br /> Her remark left Alice livid. But she soon suppressed her anger, changing into an innocent expression again. <br /> <br /> "I'm just trying to show you some concern. How can you think of me that way?"<br /> <br /> 'Concern? <br /> <br /> That's funny. You just want to mock me, ' Rachel thought. <br /> <br /> With a face devoid of emotion, Ivan intervened in their conversation. He reminded Rachel, "Mrs. Sullivan, it's time for you to leave. Mr. Sullivan is about to come back."<br /> <br /> The corners of her mouth twitched. She pointed at Alice and said to Ivan, "It's not that I don't want to leave; it's just that there's a mad dog blocking my path. I'm afraid that she'll bite me."<br /> <br /> Ivan was rendered speechless. <br /> <br /> Alice began to shed crocodile tears. "Rachel, I know you're getting divorced today. I was really worried that you'll be sad, so I left my work early to come to see you. How... How could you say that to me? I'm your sister."<br /> <br /> "shut up! I don't have a dog for a sister." Rachel quickly distanced herself from Alice, and turned to Ivan again. "Ivan, shall we?"<br /> <br /> His temples began to ache, and he failed to maintain his stern expression for a moment. Left with no other choice, he said to Alice, "Miss Jenkins, please excuse us."<br /> <br /> Alice bit her lower lip. Her eyes were fiery with rage at this moment, but they were covered by her bangs. <br /> <br /> "Ivan, an untrained dog cannot comprehend human language," Rachel said to taunt her. <br /> <br /> That remark made Alice fume with rage. She clenched her fists, and glared at Rachel. <br /> <br /> Upon seeing Alice restrain her anger, Rachel tilted her head a little, smiling to vex Alice even more. <br /> <br /> The arrogant smile on Rachel's face annoyed Alice. <br /> <br /> 'What is going on? Rachel is usually timid, and she's always obedient and grateful to me. Why did her personality turn upside down?'<br /> <br /> "Miss Jenkins," Ivan called out; his voice held a hint of impatience. <br /> <br /> Alice pressed her lips, hiding her suspicions. "Ivan, I'm not implying that I don't want my sister to leave. It's just that Victor asked me to see how things are going here."<br /> <br /> Both Ivan and Rachel were surprised to hear that. <br /> <br /> "Victor knew that I was coming here, so he specifically told me to watch Rachel pack up and leave. He said that according to the divorce agreement, Rachel wasn't allowed to take anything that belongs to the Sullivan family. I'm just here to make sure she upholds the agreement." Alice looked at the suitcase beside Rachel. <br /> <br /> "So, Rachel, could you please open your suitcase? I need to check if you took anything that doesn't belong to you."<br /> <br /> Rachel frowned at that. "It only contains a few clothes. I didn't take anything that belongs to the Sullivan family!"<br /> <br /> Alice grabbed the suitcase from her and said, "I'm afraid it's not up to you to decide. If you didn't take anything inappropriate with you, why are you so afraid of letting me see the contents of your suitcase?"<br /> <br /> After that, she laid the suitcase on the ground and opened it. <br /> <br /> Inside it, several clothes had been piled up in a mess. It seemed that Rachel really didn't take anything valuable with her. <br /> <br /> Alice gritted her teeth. She didn't expect that Rachel was telling the truth. Unwilling to let her go so easily, Alice rummaged through the clothes. It was as if she wasn't going to stop until she had found a piece of evidence that could prove Rachel had stolen something from the Sullivans. <br /> <br /> The only contents of the suitcase were Rachel's clothes and cosmetics, and yet Alice kept rummaging through the suitcase for over ten minutes. <br /> <br /> "Are you done checking?" Rachel glanced down at Alice. <br /> <br /> "I'm just following Victor's orders. It's better to check thoroughly," Alice replied softly. <br /> <br /> "Fine. Go ahead and check those clothes for as long as you want. I don't want them anymore." Rachel shook her head. The bruises on her body still hadn't healed yet. She really didn't want to waste any more time with Alice, and she didn't want to wait for Victor to come back and try to strangle her again. <br /> <br /> Now that she had said her piece, Rachel walked past Alice and towards the elevator and pushed the button. Ivan followed suit. <br /> <br /> Ding! <br /> <br /> Before long, the elevator arrived at the third floor. The sliding doors opened slowly. Just before Rachel could walk in, she suddenly felt a chill. The temperature around her dropped several degrees, making her shiver and stop in her tracks. <br /> <br /> The first thing she saw was a pair of shiny leather shoes. When she raised her head, she caught sight of Victor's aloof face. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Sullivan." Ivan was the first to react, bowing his head respectfully. <br /> <br /> "Rachel, it seems that you've forgotten what I told you this morning." There was a flash of warning in Victor's eyes, and he sounded ill-tempered. <br /> <br /> The second she saw him, Rachel thought of how Victor choked her this morning. She trembled with fear, wary of what he might do to her. <br /> <br /> Standing in attention, she said, "No, I remember."<br /> <br /> "Oh, you do? Then why are you still here?" Victor asked, striding towards her. <br /> <br /> Rachel kept pacing backwards until her back was against the wall. She closed her eyes for a second and then braced herself to look into his eyes. <br /> <br /> "You should ask Alice. I was about to leave, but she appeared out of nowhere and delayed me. That's why I..."<br /> <br /> Rachel was half-way to finishing her explanation when Alice suddenly interrupted her. <br /> <br /> "How could you lie like that?" she asked with tearful eyes. <br /> <br /> "I'm not lying!" At this moment, Rachel was cursing Alice in her head. If it weren't for this woman, she would've left an hour ago, and she wouldn't have run into Victor. <br /> <br /> Damn it.<br /> <br /> As if she was about to break into tears, Alice said, "Victor, I didn't mean to delay Rachel's departure. I was just following your orders to check her luggage. I'm afraid that she'll steal your stuff. My sister revels in lying. I didn't expect that she'd lie again this time."<br /> <br /> Alice's words reminded Victor of everything that Rachel had done, making him look more sullen than usual. "Rachel, do you honestly think I won't try to kill you?"<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, he strangled Rachel with his hand, slamming her head against the wall. She didn't see that coming, but she managed to grab Victor's hand instinctively. The pain coming from the back of her head made her dizzy. <br /> <br /> "Vic... Victor!" Rachel called out with difficulty. <br /> <br /> "How dare you test my patience over and over?" said Victor. <br /> <br /> With every passing second, Rachel was losing her consciousness. She couldn't break free from Victor's grasp at all. <br /> <br /> Upon seeing the situation, Ivan decided to intervene. He hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Mr. Sullivan, if something happens to Mrs. Sullivan, those guys in the board of directors will use that against you. If that happens, your plan of concentrating equity will be hampered."<br /> <br /> "Get off!" Victor roared. His fingers that were gripping Rachel's neck turned pale because of how strong he was gripping her. <br /> <br /> As much as he worried about Rachel, Ivan didn't dare to talk back to Victor again. <br /> <br /> 'I don't want to die.' <br /> <br /> She used the last of her strength to push Victor's hand away. Once she was able to catch her breath a little, she stared at him; her eyes turning red. <br /> <br /> "If I die here and now, then I will die as your wife; still a member of the Sullivans. Someday, when you die, you will be buried next to me, and I will haunt you beyond the afterlife!"<br /> <br /> Rachel said those words with difficulty; her face had turned red due to the suffocation. Gradually, Rachel had no strength to struggle. Little by little, she could feel her consciousness slipping. <br /> <br /> "Who do you think you are? You don't deserve to be buried in my family's mausoleum." Victor sounded indifferent. "If you die, I'll cremate your body and throw the ashes into a bin. A woman like you deserves to rest with the rubbish!"<br /> <br /> Rachel burst into laughter. <br /> <br /> "Why are you laughing?" Victor asked. <br /> <br /> "Even if you throw my ashes into a bin, it won't change the fact that I'm your legal wife, and I'm part of your family tree. You loathe me, don't you? Sorry, but you'll never get rid of me, even if I die!"<br /> <br /> Victor stared daggers at her as he strengthened his grip, lifting her in midair. Consequently, Rachel yelped in pain, and tears rolled down her cheeks. <br /> <br /> Just when she was hallucinating of the shameless couple in her previous life, Victor suddenly let go of her. <br /> <br /> Rachel fell to the ground. She felt like every bone in her body had been broken, and even the slightest movement made her groan in pain. <br /> <br /> She coughed violently and gasped for air, breathing with so much difficulty. <br /> <br /> Ivan glanced at Rachel indifferently and lowered his head. "Mr. Sullivan, it's all my fault. I didn't urge her to leave in time. I'm willing to suffer the consequences."<br /> <br /> Alice turned pale with fear as she watched Victor beat up Rachel. She got down on her knees and begged, "Victor, I... This is my fault! I didn't check Rachel's suitcase faster. That's why she had the opportunity to lie and buy time for herself."<br /> <br /> Rachel could feel her chest tightening as she coughed over and over. <br /> <br /> "I didn’t take anything that belongs to you," she said in a hoarse voice. <br /> <br /> Victor took out some wet wipes to clean his hand that had touched Rachel's neck. Disgust was evident on his face. <br /> <br /> "You didn't take anything? You bought all your clothes using my money. How dare you say that you didn’t take my stuff?"<br /> <br /> Rachel pursed her lips, unable to refute his logic. On her wedding day, Alice had burned all the clothes that Rachel had bought herself. Alice said that her clothes were too vulgar, and Victor probably wouldn't want to see her wearing them. <br /> <br /> "Take off her clothes and throw her out!" After saying that, Victor left along with Ivan without hesitation. <br /> <br /> Only when those two had left did Alice get up and walk towards Rachel. Her previous ostensibly tenderness had now disappeared. <br /> <br /> "Rachel, you married Victor and slept with him, but so what? In the end, he kicked you out! You wanted to make him fall in love with you, didn't you? That's never going to happen! Do you really think I asked you to wear heavy makeup and put on weight because Victor likes it? This is hilarious. I can't believe you actually fell for that. No man will ever like a fat and idiotic woman like you! I was messing with you. I just wanted to make him hate you even more!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's face turned ghastly pale. When she heard what Alice said, she didn't even look at her. She was indifferent to Alice's words and did not seem to hear her provocation. <br /> <br /> Seeing that Rachel wasn't responding, Alice gritted her teeth in anger. "Why are you looking at me like that?"<br /> <br /> "Huh! You're so pathetic." Rachel chuckled, trying to endure the pain. <br /> <br /> She was sure that she had suffered an internal injury. Just the act of talking was painful enough to make her feel like her organs were being twisted together. <br /> <br /> But she couldn't afford to show any sign of weakness. Otherwise, Alice would revel in torturing her. Evil was in that woman's nature. <br /> <br /> "What did you say?" Alice's eyes widened in surprise. When Rachel sneered at her, she was goaded. <br /> <br /> "I said," Rachel took a deep breath to alleviate the pain in her chest. "You are living a miserable, ridiculous life. You're the most pathetic person I've ever met! Being called must make you feel inferior, doesn't it? You've been trying your best to steal everything I had since we were kids, because I'm the Bennet family's legitimate daughter, and you're just a dirty little. You are always unpresentable!"<br /> <br /> "shut up!" Alice screamed. It seemed that Rachel had struck a sore spot. <br /> <br /> Rachel grinned and continued, "These past two years, I trusted you, and yet you deceived me by taking advantage of my desire to draw Victor's attention. You fooled me into doing stupid things in front of him, so that he would loathe me. At first, he didn't feel anything for me, and then he began to hate me. And now, he's too disgusted to even lay eyes on me. You must be proud of this accomplishment, aren't you?"<br /> <br /> Alice clenched her fists, looking at Rachel with hatred. "Well, you should blame yourself for being so stupid!"<br /> <br /> "You're right. I was stupid," Rachel admitted. Right now, she felt ashamed for what she had done in the past two years. <br /> <br /> Despite being the daughter of a rich and powerful family, she had lived a pathetic life. How did she end up this way? <br /> <br /> "You have a clear estimation of yourself." The look on Alice's face made it seem like she was the winner between them. <br /> <br /> "I almost died, and that's enough to wake me up. I'm not stupid like you after all." Rachel wanted to make sure that she didn't have any broken bones, so she propped herself up using her hands. However, the pain was far too much for her to bear, so she fell down once more. <br /> <br /> Sweat dripped down her forehead as she groaned in pain; her hands, pressing against the hard floor. The veins on the back of her hands were bulging because she was exerting every ounce of strength she could muster. <br /> <br /> Alice's face turned grim. <br /> <br /> "Your end is near, Rachel. How dare you talk to me like that? Remember, you are no longer Victor's wife, and are therefore no longer part of the Sullivan family! His grandmother is dead now, so there's no one left to protect you! If you have a brain in that empty head of yours, you should kneel down and beg me to persuade our father to allow you to go home!"<br /> <br /> When Alice mentioned Victor's grandmother, a faraway look appeared on Rachel's face. <br /> <br /> Victor's grandmother was the one who chose Rachel to be his wife. Not long after she married into the Sullivan family, the old lady died of illness. His grandmother used to be Rachel's protector when she was still alive. During that time, Rachel lived a dignified life within the Sullivan family's residence. <br /> <br /> "Do you think you'll be able to marry Victor and share the Sullivan Group with him after I divorce him?"<br /> <br /> Upon hearing that, Alice stood proudly. "You were able to do it, so I probably can as well."<br /> <br /> "You can't," Rachel said in a weak, yet firm tone. "Why are you so confident that Victor will agree to marry you? Just because he's also an illegitimate child, you think you're good enough to be his wife?<br /> <br /> Your mother is a mistress; a home-wrecker! Unlike you, Victor was born before his father even got married. And his mother never destroyed the man's marriage later! <br /> <br /> With that being said, you will never deserve to be Victor's wife," said Rachel. <br /> <br /> Alice's fingernails were digging into her palms, and her chest was heaving up and down due to the anger she was feeling. <br /> <br /> All of a sudden, she pulled Rachel up and slapped her face. <br /> <br /> The slap left a palm print on Rachel's face. <br /> <br /> Blood oozed from the corner of her mouth. Obviously, Alice didn't hold back when she slapped Rachel. <br /> <br /> Gnashing her teeth, Alice said to the servants, "You two, hold her up!"<br /> <br /> Rachel's vision was fading because of how hard she had gotten hit. The servants didn't dawdle, and they immediately followed Alice's command. Each of them held one of Rachel's arms to restrict her. <br /> <br /> With a murderous gaze, Alice clasped Rachel's chin, forcing her to raise her head. <br /> <br /> The imprint of an open hand was evident on the right side of her face; it was red and swollen. Once more, Alice raised her hand and snarled, "You're quite glib, aren't you? Say something again, I dare you!"<br /> <br /> "Alice, do you know what my life motto is?" Rachel spat out a mouthful of blood, trying her best to keep her eyes open. Her almond-shaped eyes looked as cold as ice. Her steely gaze was enough to intimidate people. <br /> <br /> "Ten eyes for an eye, and ten teeth for a single tooth," Rachel sneered. "As long as I live and breathe, I will hunt you down to the ends of the earth, and I will make you suffer for what you've done to me today!"<br /> <br /> For a moment, Alice was startled by her gaze, but she soon came to her senses. <br /> <br /> "Don't try to frighten me with that threat! Do you think a loser like you could scare me?" she said through gritted teeth. <br /> <br /> Right after she said that, Alice hit Rachel's face until it swelled up. <br /> <br /> Her anger was finally quenched when she got tired. She looked at Rachel dead in the eyes and said to the servants, "Didn't you hear Mr. Sullivan earlier?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, ma'am. He ordered us to remove her clothes and throw her out," a servant said, lowering her gaze. <br /> <br /> Alice massaged her sore wrist, smiling with satisfaction before she decided to strut away. <br /> <br /> Before long, the servants stripped Rachel down to her pelt, leaving only a set of silk underwear to cover her naked body. <br /> <br /> Unable to resist, Rachel closed her eyes and gave up struggling. She just let them do whatever they wanted to her. <br /> <br /> She knew very well that her survival was now the most important thing. <br /> <br /> The servants supported her on each side as they walked towards the door. <br /> <br /> After all, Rachel was once Victor's wife. Even though the servants loathed her, they still didn't want to bear witness to her embarrassment. Along the way, she didn't see anyone else besides the maids who were escorting her. <br /> <br /> Meanwhile, the butler knocked on the door of the study. <br /> <br /> "Come in," said Victor. <br /> <br /> The butler entered the room and said to him, "Mr. Sullivan, Mrs-Ms. Bennet had been thrown out as you've commanded."<br /> <br /> Victor was currently reading a contract, so he didn't raise his head when he replied, "Did she say anything?"<br /> <br /> "No," said the butler. <br /> <br /> With a snort, Victor thought of what Rachel had said earlier. His eyes brimmed with cruelty as he shut the folder and ordered, "Tell them to throw that woman as far as they can. Don't let that woman disgrace my doorstep."<br /> <br /> The butler was shocked to hear that. "Yes, sir," he answered reluctantly. <br /> <br /> Inside a cramped basement somewhere south of the city.<br /> <br /> "No!" Rachel suddenly woke up, sitting upright and screaming. She was breathing heavily and looking ahead in horror. <br /> <br /> Just then, someone pushed the door open from outside. Seeing that she was awake, the man set aside the medicine he had prepared and walked to the bed. <br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, you're finally awake," he said with concern. <br /> <br /> Rachel looked at him vigilantly, calming down at once. She tried to recall the man's name, because he looked familiar. However, she couldn't remember who he was at the moment. <br /> <br /> She looked down at her body and remembered that she had been thrown out of Victor's house; half-naked and almost dying. But now, she was still alive, sitting here in a tacky yet neat floral shirt with matching pants. <br /> <br /> "Who are you?" Rachel's voice was hoarse, and it seemed like she was wary of him. <br /> <br /> "We've met before, but you were still a child back then. It's normal that you don't remember me. I'm Andy Torres, your mother's private lawyer." The man smiled at her. <br /> <br /> 'Andy? Mom's lawyer?'<br /> <br /> Rachel remembered that her mother did have a lawyer. "Did you save me?"<br /> <br /> "I did. When I called you, a passerby answered the phone and said that you had fainted. But don't worry, I didn't see anything. The man who found you covered you with a coat, and then I carried you to my car and drove you back here," Andy explained. <br /> <br /> "Then, why am I wearing these clothes?"<br /> <br /> "Oh, I asked an old lady who lives next door to change it for you."<br /> <br /> Rachel breathed a sigh of relief, but she still frowned. "You mentioned that you called me. What for?"<br /> <br /> Her mother died when she was 13. Andy said that he was her mother's lawyer, but Rachel hadn't seen him for so many years. It was suspicious that he suddenly showed up this time. <br /> <br /> Andy got up and walked out of the room. Moments later, he returned with a document, and gave it to Rachel. <br /> <br /> "This is your mother's last will and testament," he said. <br /> <br /> "My mother's will?" Doubt filled Rachel's eyes. If she remembered correctly, her mother departed this world so suddenly that she didn't have the time to make a will. <br /> <br /> Otherwise, Rachel's useless father and his mistress wouldn't have been so reckless and high-profile. <br /> <br /> "Yes, she entrusted me to be the witness of her will when she was still alive. She told me to make this will public, and give it to you on your 24th birthday."<br /> <br /> Now that Andy had mentioned that, Rachel remembered that her birthday was the same day of her divorce with Victor. <br /> <br /> "It's clearly stated in this will that you will inherit all of your mother's assets, including fifteen percent of the Bennet Group's shares, and the villa she lived in before she died," Andy continued. <br /> <br /> Rachel turned to the last page and she saw the name "Elisa Bennet" on the bottom right corner of the paper. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Torres, how many days have I been unconscious?" asked Rachel. <br /> <br /> "Three days."<br /> <br /> She then put away the document and got out of bed. "In that case, they've been living comfortably for three more days. That's enough for them."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Rachel walked towards the door. <br /> <br /> "Miss Bennet, where are you going?" asked Andy. <br /> <br /> Rachel stopped at the door, glancing at the will in her hand. She raised her eyebrows and smiled. <br /> <br /> "Where else? I'm going back home and kick out my father, his woman of a mistress, and their daughter!" With that, Rachel opened the door and strode out. <br /> <br /> Andy was taken aback by what she said for a moment. Somehow, he saw a glimpse of Elisa during her youth. <br /> <br /> As he watched Rachel walk away, Andy put on his suit jacket and followed her quickly. <br /> <br /> In the Bennet family's house, in the Riverside Villa District north of the city.<br /> <br /> Rachel and Andy stood in front of the door. They had been ringing the doorbell dozens of times, and yet nobody was answering. <br /> <br /> Annoyed by the constant ringing, finally the housekeeper trotted outside and shouted, "Stop it! Who is there? A debt collector or something? Stop ringing it! You're driving me crazy!"<br /> <br /> Right after she stopped talking, the housekeeper opened the side door and looked at the visitors with a frown. She was stunned to see who they were. <br /> <br /> Rachel put on a sardonic smile. "Well, we do have a debt to collect."<br /> <br /> "You... it's you!" The housekeeper's face turned pale, and a chill ran down her spine because of how intimidating Rachel looked. <br /> <br /> "What's wrong, Viola? Have you forgotten about me because you haven't seen me for a long time?" Rachel asked. <br /> <br /> Viola Lee swallowed hard nervously. For some reason, her feet felt cold. <br /> <br /> "Mi- Miss Rachel, you're back," she stammered. <br /> <br /> Rachel took a step forward. "That's right. I'm back, and I'm staying this time. Viola, go clean up my bedroom."<br /> <br /> Viola lowered her gaze and pursed her lips, unable to respond. 'Her bedroom?' Rachel didn't have a bedroom in this house anymore. Alice had already occupied her old bedroom. <br /> <br /> However, Viola didn't want to say that out loud. If this had happened in the past, she wouldn't have hesitated to say it. However, it looked like Rachel had changed so much. She had become a terrifying woman, and Viola was so scared of her that it felt difficult to breathe. <br /> <br /> "Who's home right now?" Rachel looked around and saw that the garden's layout hadn't changed in the past two years. Everything was the same as before. <br /> <br /> "Your father, his wife, and Miss Alice are all here," Viola replied. <br /> <br /> "Great! That saves me the effort of looking for them," Rachel said as she walked through the front yard and entered the house. <br /> <br /> Inside the living room.<br /> <br /> "Mom, which one looks better on me? This one or the previous one?" Alice asked, fiddling with the diamond necklace around her neck. <br /> <br /> "Silly girl, the other one is more expensive. You're going to attend Mr. Sullivan's banquet, so you should wear something more expensive." The middle-aged woman grabbed the necklace on the table. It was embedded with a sapphire, and it looked more expensive and exquisite. Gently, she put it around Alice's neck. <br /> <br /> Alice looked at the sapphire necklace and touched the gleaming gem. She couldn't resist the urge to smile at how beautiful it looked. <br /> <br /> She put down her hand, walking to the other end of the sofa, sat down next to a middle-aged man, and held his arm. <br /> <br /> "Dad, look at it! It's beautiful, isn't it?" Alice asked, blinking her beautiful eyes. <br /> <br /> Jack Jenkins looked at his daughter, caressing her head. "My daughter is the most beautiful woman in the world. No matter what you wear, you'll look divine!"<br /> <br /> Hearing that put a smile on Alice's face. "Dad, if mom hears you say that I'm the most beautiful in the world, she'll get jealous."<br /> <br /> Caroline Jenkins chimed in, "Why would I be jealous? You silly little girl. You enjoy making fun of me, don't you?"<br /> <br /> Amused, Jack held Caroline's hand and chuckled. "To me, you and your mother are the most beautiful women in existence."<br /> <br /> Alice leaned against his shoulder and smiled, while Caroline lowered her head because she felt a little shy to hear that. <br /> <br /> All of a sudden, they heard someone clapping. <br /> <br /> The happiness dissipated from their faces when they saw who was at the door. <br /> <br /> Rachel tilted her head and put down her hands. "What a happy family you all are. I am so moved by this scene. What about you, Mr. Torres?"<br /> <br /> On their way to this villa, Andy learned that Rachel had been suffering these past few years. Initially, he believed that even after Elisa's death, Rachel would live a comfortable life because she was the lady of a rich family, and she later married to Victor, a business tycoon. <br /> <br /> Andy was filled with rage when he saw how happy Jack and his new family were. He just stood there, looking at them with anger. <br /> <br /> "Rachel! What are you doing here?" Alice was the first to react. <br /> <br /> Rachel scoffed at her, walked to the sofa, and sat down. <br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Andy happened to hear Alice's question. He followed Rachel and stood behind her. <br /> <br /> "Miss Jenkins, this is Miss Bennet's house. If she wants to come back, she's permitted to do so whenever she wants."<br /> <br /> "Who do you think you are? Was I even talking to you?" Alice scolded Andy, and glared at him. <br /> <br /> Courteously, he replied, "I am her personal lawyer."<br /> <br /> Alice snorted with disdain. "Everyone is claiming to be a lawyer these days. Rachel, Victor has thrown you out of his house, and you have nowhere else to go. Do you think you can come back and live here just because you hired a lawyer? No way! Get out of here! You're not welcome in this household!"<br /> <br /> After saying that, Alice strode forward and tried to grab Rachel's arm, intending to drag her outside. <br /> <br /> But to her surprise, Rachel managed to dodge her. Seconds later, Alice felt a stinging sensation in her neck, causing her to groan in pain and cover her neck. <br /> <br /> Rachel, on the other hand, stood calmly as she held the necklace that Alice was wearing just now, albeit it had been stained with blood now. <br /> <br /> "Rachel Bennet! How dare you?" Alice lost her temper. She immediately tried to hit Rachel, but there was an imperceptible smile on Rachel's face. Just before Alice's hand could reach her face, Rachel grabbed Alice's wrist, and then she kicked her knee. And then she let go of her. <br /> <br /> Alice cried out in pain. <br /> <br /> She dropped to her knees, falling to the ground. <br /> <br /> "Alice!" Caroline quickly went to her daughter's side to help her up. She never imagined that this woman, Rachel, would dare to hit her daughter. <br /> <br /> Rachel looked at the necklace in her hand. "If I remember correctly, this necklace is supposed to be mine, right?"<br /> <br /> With a pale face, Alice gritted her teeth, trying to take back the necklace. "That's mine!"<br /> <br /> However, Rachel withdrew her hand, and sat back on the sofa. "This necklace is worth at least millions of dollars. Alice, didn't you tell me that you had no money to buy a dress worth only ten thousand dollars? You even manipulated me into buying it for you, remember? When did you become so rich to have a necklace like this?"<br /> <br /> That statement made Alice's face turn ghastly pale. "That's none of your business! The necklace is mine! Give it back, or I'm calling the police to arrest you for robbery!"<br /> <br /> Rachel crossed her legs, leaned back against the sofa, and didn't say anything for a moment. She just looked at the three of them in silence. <br /> <br /> Alice was scared by the way she was looking at them. She suddenly remembered what Rachel had told her three days ago. 'I will make you suffer for what you've done to me today!'<br /> <br /> "You see, sapphires are rare. That's why every sapphire is engraved with a special serial number with a laser. Alice, you said that this necklace is yours, so you must know what that serial number is, right?" Rachel said with derision. <br /> <br /> Alice was dumbfounded. The serial number? Did sapphires have numbers? How was she supposed to know that? She just took this necklace from Rachel's jewelry box that she left at home. <br /> <br /> Looking a bit guilty, Alice retorted, "Who will pay special attention to a stupid serial number when they buy a necklace? The number is too long to remember!"<br /> <br /> "Oh, you don't remember, do you?" Rachel didn't seem to care what Alice had said. She just put on a sardonic smile to mock her. <br /> <br /> "It's okay. Since you bought this necklace, you should have an appraisal certificate. The serial number is written on it too. Once the police come, just take out the certificate and show it to them."<br /> <br /> Alice began to panic. Hesitantly, she stammered, "I... I..."<br /> <br /> "What? Are you going to tell me that you lost the appraisal certificate?" Rachel saw through Alice's face, so she interrupted her and continued, "It's not a big deal if you lost the certificate. The police will look into it."<br /> <br /> Alice's face darkened. <br /> <br /> At this moment, Rachel paused when she noticed that Alice fell silent. Seconds later, she asked, "What's the matter? Didn't you want to call the police to arrest me for robbery? Go ahead, call them."<br /> &10&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-x	108394237578957	Fiction books	https://facebook.com/100075615382269	52,573	2	1,218,150,072,423,201	2024-07-03 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Fiction books	120210511878060031	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/21791322-fb_contact-xy-0720-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=200518&accid=6463366573788529&jump=1	2024-06-29 04:23	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449314821_1161502104927849_6542821030330679659_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hq3xav_lrbcQ7kNvgFWSi14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDCf__Mnqj4nqIqvfykClHic4xuOxw6WkGXeIqA43jGPA&oe=6692450F	person_profile	Fiction books	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449448369_1591615104735893_7110798834165333275_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ov4ZcnUJcCUQ7kNvgEk3DQ5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBUPaIIsYr9pVSPWXJHJt9qTB9Wh687NEjUFhBR9yxhrQ&oe=66923FD1	3	Fiction books	2024-06-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,915,362	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1915364}'	Yes	2024-07-08 20:04	active	1089	370084335724916	Say Goodbye To Overused EDM Vocals	Tired of overused and low quality EDM vocals? <br /> <br /> Work with world-class singers and level up your music instantly with Vocalfy’s rare vocals. <br /> <br /> ✅ 100% royalty-free vocals<br /> ✅ Access to stems and MIDI files<br /> ✅ Rare vocals that get deleted regularly<br /> Crafted by artists who have worked with Netflix, Spinnin' Records, and Universal.<br /> Find the perfect vocal for your track now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F_vocalfy_&h=AT0pKERp4tE3I5ONHxaQ2XqJDJLL4sw-NzMMdCHnEd5-xKREPWg2dAIoDhWbWSnG_qpfPRIcgR4WxtgYez-w_nfwFbDn1AhOzowPxWhDBKL63L5tFA6cUiQRCmGfeefLE9YVIPJpz-f2CQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/_vocalfy_</a>	DOWNLOAD	https://vocalfy.com/	105522468575480	Vocalfy	https://facebook.com/100076230931991	1,920	3	1,723,065,034,766,584	2024-07-05 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Download	Vocalfy	120216441152500151	vocalfy.com	NONE	video	Click here 👉	https://vocalfy.com/	2024-07-01 09:56	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449517971_853590956657700_1297119374206280188_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R4b_z9k3XRMQ7kNvgHi2FiB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBUPYyixt6NpTRxjOmIiU32Ocx4PO_k-EZ2Mq3iqrSfXw&oe=66923A3D	person_profile	Vocalfy	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449681254_923400526212664_5762587732839950738_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uTCfrBjAQZ4Q7kNvgEhbPMN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB8OUuAXKVIB0YEhcbT85ZZE7oAzsUeAwZcjdNiYgLBAw&oe=66926FB8	3	Vocalfy	2024-07-01 02:00	View Edit Delete

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