Kneel Down, Husband, Now I’ll Destroy Your Legacy

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The third month after I gave birth, I went back to the hospital alone for my postpartum checkup.

Christopher was on another business trip again for three months. Meetings, flights, deals. I got used to waiting for him like a quiet wife left at home.

But that day something felt wrong.

I sat in the doctors office holding my file, and the doctor looked at me like I was crazy.

You think this is funny? he said sharply. Do you have any idea how busy we are? Dont come here wasting medical resources with jokes!

My head snapped up. What what are you talking about?

You said you just gave birth. You didnt.

For a moment I just stared at him.

I slowly opened my bag with shaking fingers and pulled out my prenatal records. But I did all my checkups here. I delivered here too. My husband brought me. Maybe somethings wrong with your system?

The doctor took the papers, looked through them, then frowned harder.

The numbers exist in the system, he said. But the patient attached to them is someone named Lillian Davenport.

My stomach dropped.

Thats that's impossible, I whispered.

He turned his screen toward me. And your ultrasound today shows youve never given birth. His voice turned colder. Listen, lady. You should know whether youve been pregnant or not.

His words hit me like a hammer and my ears rang.

How could that be? I had a cesarean section.

Christopher personally drove me here the night I went into labor. I still remembered his hand holding mine while the nurses wheeled me into surgery.

When the anesthesia wore off, he stood beside my bed and showed me our baby.

My baby.

And the scar was still on my stomach. I pressed my hand against it unconsciously. So what the hell was the doctor talking about?

Then a name echoed in my head.

Lillian Davenport.

Christophers childhood sweetheart. The woman who chased him for ten years even after he married me.

Back then she couldnt accept it and even hired some thugs to attack me. If I hadnt stepped in that night, Christopher wouldve beaten her to death in his rage.

After that, he said he sent her away. So how could she suddenly be connected to my pregnancy records?

Christopher even booked my prenatal appointments himself.

My thoughts tangled into a mess. Was the hospital wrong? Or was I going crazy?

No.

Something was wrong. Very wrong.

I couldnt wait for Christopher to come home this time. I bought the earliest flight ticket to the city where he was staying for work.

The whole flight my chest felt tight like someone was squeezing my heart.

By the time I arrived, it was already evening.

I dragged my suitcase into the garage and froze. A black sedan slowly drove past the entrance.

Christophers car.

The car stopped just a few meters away from me.

I froze.

Christopher stepped out first, like he always did, tall and impatient, fixing his cufflinks like the whole world had to move faster for him. Then he walked around to the passenger side and opened the door.

And then I saw her.

A slim hand slid naturally around his arm like it belonged there.

Lillian.

They looked close. Too close. Not like two people who hated each other.

Chris baby, she said softly, leaning into him, the doctor already said Im recovering really well. Why do you keep dragging me back to the hospital again and again?

Christopher snorted and pinched her cheek lightly. You little heartless thing. You almost bled out the day you gave birth to our little Marie. I was scared shitless that night. If I dont hear the doctor say youre fine with my own ears, how the hell am I supposed to relax?

Marie.

That was the name Christopher had chosen for our baby.

My legs went weak.

Instinctively I stepped back and hid behind one of the concrete pillars in the garage.

Lillian leaned closer to him and laughed softly. Youre overreacting.

He wrapped an arm around her waist like it was the most natural thing in the world and started guiding her toward the elevator. And suddenly everything inside my head went blank.

The baby

was hers?

My throat tightened.

No that cant be right.

Can it?

But before they reached the elevator, Lillians hand slid off his waist. Instead it drifted down slowly to his belt.

I felt my stomach twist.

I already asked the doctor, her voice was teasing. Im fully recovered now.

Her fingers tugged lightly at his belt.

Youve been staying with me all this time and you havent even touched me once. Chris can you really hold back that long?

Christopher went very still. Even from where I stood, I could see the fire flash through his eyes.

For a second I thought he might lose control. But then he grabbed her wrist and stopped her.

Stop messing around, he muttered, You know damn well why.

She pouted. Why?

Christopher sighed heavily and rubbed his forehead.

Back then my family always looked down on Melissa, he said. They wanted me to marry you from the beginning.

My chest tightened.

But for Melissas sake, he continued quietly, I treated you like shit. I pushed you away again and again, and you never held it against me.

Lillian lowered her eyes.

Christopher kept talking.

After the wedding, the Bellingham family was forced to accept Melissa, but lets be honest. Her background is dirt poor. The child she gave birth to wouldnt even qualify to inherit the Bellingham family.

Every word stabbed straight into my chest.

And then I found out you were terminally ill, he went on, his voice softer now. But you still insisted on giving birth to a child for me. You ignored your own health just to shut my family up.

His hand gently touched her shoulder.

You stayed by my side without a name, without status. He let out a bitter laugh. I love Melissa. I really do.

My heart trembled.

But I owe you a hell of a lot more.

Lillian looked up at him.

Christopher shook his head slowly.

You dont have much time left with me. If I cant even control myself now, then what the hell am I? Some kind of beast?

My nails dug into my palms so hard they broke the skin. Warm blood trickled down my fingers.

But I barely felt it.

My heart felt like someone had grabbed it and ripped a piece right out.

All these years I really believed Christopher loved only me. I believed he stayed loyal. I believed he protected me. But hed already been involved with Lillian for so long.

I suddenly remembered our wedding day. Lillian stormed into the ceremony and ruined everything in front of the whole city. Everyone laughed at me.

Later she even hired men to try to force themselves on me. I cried until my throat bled that night. I fought like crazy just to protect myself. That nightmare followed me for years.

And the man who swore to protect me was now standing there telling her he owed her. He owed the woman who destroyed me.

My chest started shaking.

And before I could even breathe properly, Lillian suddenly wrapped her arms around him again.

If Melissa ever finds out... that what she thought was childbirth was actually just a hallucination from the companys new sleep aid

My whole body froze.

shed definitely be furious.

My ears rang.

Hallucination? Sleep aid? What?

Lillians voice trembled slightly as she clung to him.

Especially since the child is actually mine.

My knees almost gave out.

Im really scared, Chris, she whispered. I just want you to protect our child. She buried her face in his chest. As for me its okay if I suffer a little.

Christopher held Lillians face in both hands like she was something precious.

His voice was low and serious. Listen to me. Marie is Melissas child for now. Ill never let her know the truth.

My heart stopped for a second.

He pulled a document from his briefcase and handed it to her. Back then Melissa misunderstood you and thought you hired someone to hurt her. Because of that my family locked you up at home for a long time. Your health got ruined because of it.

Lillian lowered her eyes like a wounded little bird.

Christopher sighed and gently brushed her hair back. You told me before that staying closer to me would make you feel better. So I arranged a job for you at a friends company. You can start tomorrow.

She looked up in surprise. Your friends company? Isnt that the building right next to yours?

Yeah, he said.

Its that close can I really go there?

Christopher smiled at her in that calm confident way of his. As long as it doesnt affect Melissa, Ill do whatever I can to make you happy.

Happy.

The word felt like a knife twisting slowly in my chest.

Then they walked into the elevator together and the doors closed.

I covered my mouth because a sob almost slipped out.

Christopher once told me something very different.

He held my hands back then and said, Melissa, the only woman Ive ever loved is you. I dont care about your family background. In this life there can only be one woman beside me.

I believed him.

Every stupid word.

But now that same man was protecting the woman who ruined me and saying he owed her.

He once said everything in the Bellingham family belonged to our child and no one else had the right to touch it.

And yet he used his companys newest technology to make me believe I was pregnant.

He let me think I carried a baby for months. Let me believe I went through childbirth.

All so I could raise Lillians child right in front of me without suspecting a thing.

For her sake.

For her happiness.

So what about me?

Was his love even real?

I didnt even remember how I left the hospital.

Everything felt numb. I ran three red lights on the way home and barely noticed.

When I got back, I only did two things.

First I found the prenuptial agreement Christopher and I signed before marriage. One clause was written clearly. If Christopher had any extramarital affair, the marriage would end immediately.

I stared at that line for a long time before calling an immigration agency.

One month later I would leave the country and disappear from Christophers life forever.

The second thing I did was find the medical report he once hid in a drawer. Christophers azoospermia diagnosis.

He couldnt have children.

I packed the report carefully into a gift box.

When I first discovered that report, I couldnt sleep for days. I kept thinking about how to tell him. How do you tell a proud bastard like Christopher Bellingham that he cant have a child?

But before I could say anything, I suddenly found out I was pregnant.

At least thats what I believed back then.

I thought it was a miracle. A blessing from heaven. I treated that child with so much care and love.

And now I knew the truth.

It was all a lie.

Which made me strangely curious.

When Christopher opened that box and saw the report, what kind of expression would he have? When he realized the heir he had been dreaming about might not even be his child.

By the time I finished preparing everything, it was already dark.

I stood outside the nursery and heard a baby crying inside. Even through the door I could still faintly hear Christopher and Lillian talking.

My hand tightened on the door frame.

In the past I wouldve rushed in right away to pick the baby up and comfort him. But now I couldnt move That wasnt my child.

That was Christopher and Lillians child.

The door opened and the nanny walked out holding the crying baby.

Miss Melissa, youre finally back, she said with a bit of complaint in her voice. The young lady has been crying for so long.

I just stood there quietly and looked at the babys small face.

The baby girls face was small and soft in the nannys arms.

Her eyebrows and eyes looked exactly like Lillians.

How the hell did I never notice that before?

My chest felt tight just looking at her.

Miss Melissa, the young lady has been crying for so long, the nanny kept saying. We tried everything. Why didnt you answer the phone earlier?

Before I could even speak, Christophers cold voice came from behind me.

I hired you to take care of the child, he said flatly. Not to question where my wife goes. Dont overstep your damn job.

The nanny immediately shut her mouth.

Yes, sir.

Give me the baby.

She quickly handed the little girl to him.

Christopher held the baby girl easily like hed done it a thousand times. He gently patted her back and murmured something softly.

The crying stopped almost immediately. He looked up at me then, a faint frown forming.

Whyd you suddenly go out today?

My heart twisted but I forced my face calm. I just went out to buy some things.

Christopher walked closer and reached out to touch my cheek. His fingers were warm. They used to make me feel safe.

Now it only felt like a joke.

You look pale, he said quietly. Are you sick? Didnt you take care of yourself while I was away?

I turned my head slightly and avoided his hand.

Im fine. Just tired.

His eyes darkened for a second but the gentle look returned quickly.

Are you mad at me? he asked. I know Ive been busy lately. Business trips, meetings, all that bullshit. I havent spent much time with you. He adjusted the baby in his arms and sighed. Alright. Tomorrow I wont go to work. Ill stay home and take you and the baby outside. Sounds good?

Outside.

My lips moved a little but no sound came out.

Christopher just smiled and ruffled my hair like I was still the same obedient wife. Then he walked to the kitchen and came back with a glass of warm milk.

Drink this and go rest, he said.

I stared at the glass. Suddenly something clicked in my mind. Back when he first said he wanted a child, the milk I drank every night suddenly changed.

He told me it was a special nutrition formula.

This is a dairy supplement the company developed for you, he said back then with a smile.

My fingers tightened around the cup.

So that was it? Was that the thing that made me hallucinate about my pregnancy? I lifted the glass and pretended to take a sip.

When Christopher turned his head for a second, I quietly poured the milk into the vase beside the table.

Im sleepy... Im going to bed.

I placed the cup down and walked into the bedroom without looking back. Christopher stood in the living room watching me leave. I could feel his eyes on my back but I didnt turn around.

Later that night I lay in bed with my eyes closed. Christopher was beside me, breathing steady like he was asleep.

Minutes passed.

Then the mattress dipped slightly.

He got up.

I heard him walking quietly toward the door and leaving the room. The moment his footsteps faded, my eyes opened.

I slipped out of bed and followed him quietly.

He walked straight out of the villa then he stopped in front of the villa next door.

My heart dropped.

Why there?

The door opened.

I stayed in the shadows, watching Lillian in her silky nightgown throw herself into Christophers arms. Chris, youve been working so hard, she whispered, looking up at him, worried in her voice. Every night you have to feed her the medicine, and then you come over to keep me company

He held her waist and kissed her forehead, This is what you deserve, he said softly.

Im still scared, Lillian said, trembling, what if she finds out?

No, he said firmly, voice low. The medicine is specially made. It keeps her memories stable and makes her sleep like she wont ever wake up.

Lillian smiled, tiptoeing to kiss him. Chris, youre amazing.

I froze. My blood felt like ice. I watched them kiss, watched him stroke her hair, watched them walk into the villa together. The milk every night drugged. Him leaving every night and keeping Lillian close next door my happy moments all a lie.

I bit my lip until it bled and went back to my bedroom. I lay there staring at the ceiling. Sleep didnt come. When Christopher returned, it was already dawn. He tiptoed in, pulled me into his arms, kissed my forehead, and said, Melissa, lets get ready and go to the Botanical Garden greenhouse.

I closed my eyes, mumbling a soft Mmm, forcing back the tears. I didnt believe him anymore. I wouldnt ever.

...

The greenhouse was quiet. I stayed near the edge, watching him walk over with the baby girl in his arms. We got a new caretaker today, he said casually, but I could feel his eyes on me. The previous one is on leave.

I nodded but said nothing.

The caretakers sunglasses covered most of her face, but I saw those dimples, that slender figure. Lillian. She lowered her eyes, a cold, silent smile on her lips, pretending she knew nothing.

The babys been fussy, Christopher said, handing her the girl. Melissa, why arent you saying anything?

You handle it, I said, looking away.

I stepped toward the edge of the greenhouse to rest, and then a heavy metal plant rack wobbled toward me. I stumbled, fell into the pond with a splash. Water rushed into my mouth and nose, panic clawing at me. I flailed, screaming silently, trying to keep afloat.

Melissa! Christopher shouted, rushing forward, but Lillian shook him. Chris, take the child! Ill save her!

She dove in, grabbing my arm, pulling me up, but the metal rack hit me partly. Pain shot through me. I scratched her arm in panic, leaving bloody marks, but she didnt let go. She dragged me until I could barely breathe, finally pushing me to the edge.

I collapsed, coughing, gasping. Christopher arrived, frowning when he saw Lillians arm. Are you hurt?

She shook her head, voice choked. Its okay Melissa was scared I just Im worried it might leave a mark

I didnt have much time anyway I just wanted to get out looking my best, she murmured.

Christophers eyes darkened at me, then he squatted beside her, pulling her into his chest. Dont say stuff like that. No scar. Ill take you to the hospital later and use the best medicine.

She leaned against him, sobbing softly. I lay there, barely conscious, stomach twisting, hearing it all. I coughed violently.

He finally noticed me. Melissa, are you okay? Anything hurt?

Its nothing, I whispered, closing my eyes.

No, were going to the hospital. Lets check you out. He didnt wait, scooped me up in his arms, and told Lillian to take the baby. She nodded silently and followed.

I leaned against him, hearing his heartbeat. Hed just kissed her, held her, protected her and now he held me like nothing happened, playing the devoted husband.

Melissa, he said softly as we walked, you feel cold? Are you tired? Say something. Talk to me.

I swallowed hard, the taste of blood still in my mouth. I Im fine, I muttered.

He pressed my head to his chest. Youre always saying that. I cant just leave you like this. Come on, well get you warm at the hospital.

I closed my eyes tighter, fighting back tears. Every word he said felt fake. Every touch. Every act. Disgust boiled in me. And I hated that I still felt my body respond to it.

I could hear Lillian behind us, humming softly to the baby, pretending everything was normal. My stomach twisted.

I woke up to the blinding white ceiling of the hospital and the sharp, sterile smell of disinfectant filling my nose. My head felt heavy and my body even heavier. I slowly turned my eyes, and the ward was empty. Just me. The faint chatter of nurses drifted in from the doorway.

Miss Davenport only got her hand scratched, and yet Mr. Bellingham freaked out so much he called all the doctors and demanded the best medicine to make sure theres no scar, one of them said.

Another chimed in, sneering, And here she is, drowning in the pond and unconscious, and she still only gets two intern nurses looking after her. What a joke. Some contrast, huh?

My fingers twitched at my sides and my throat tightened. I remembered the night I had a fever of 39 degrees. Christopher stayed by my side all night, eyes barely closing, his private doctor at my bedside. And now I nearly drowned, and no one gave a damn.

The door opened, and two intern nurses strolled in. One glanced at me and rolled her eyes. Oh, youre awake? Not bad, tough girl.

I stayed quiet, sitting up stiffly.

The other leaned closer, her voice dripping with malice. What are you pretending for? You know youre the mistress, right? Miss Davenport already has a child with President Bellingham, and youre still clinging to her like some pathetic little shadow. Jumping in the pond? Threatening to drown yourself? Arent you disgusting?

I looked up at them, my voice raw and hoarse. Who told you I was the other woman?

The first nurse laughed, Do I need anyone to tell me? Miss Davenport is my friend, and everyone knows she and Mr. Bellingham are madly in love. They even have a child together. And then theres you, sticking your nose in, trying to play hero. What else is that but being a homewrecker? Pathetic.

The second nurse leaned on the bed rail, tilting her head, Do you even get it? Mr. Bellingham was panicked over Miss Davenport. He called her wife like a hundred times, insisted the doctors use the best medicine, made sure nothing happened to her, not a scratch. And you? You almost drowned, and no one gives a damn. Not a single person.

She smirked and added, You really thought you could be something in his life? You thought you mattered? Go ahead, pretend all you want, but face it. Youre nothing. Youre invisible. And everyone around here sees it.

I didnt respond. I just lowered my eyes, tasting the bitterness that burned my throat.

The nurse yanked out the syringe without even bothering to check if I was allergic. She grabbed my arm and jabbed me straight in, ignoring the way I flinched and screamed. I tried to pull back, but she pressed me down harder, stabbing me over and over until my arm was a mess of blood and bruises.

You deserve to be punished for breathing and for hurting Miss Davenport, she hissed, spitting on me. Stop faking. A few pricks wont kill you. Just lie still after the injection. And just like that, she turned and left, leaving me trembling and burning, my arm dripping blood.

I tried to grab the gauze from the table, but suddenly my chest felt like someone had dropped a huge rock on it. Every breath was a knife cutting into me. Allergic reaction. My vision blurred, black spots dancing in front of my eyes. The call button felt miles away, and even when I finally managed to press it, no one came.

Then the nurses words hit me. Christopher had sent all the doctors to Lillians place. Of course. Of course. Nobody cared if I died.

I barely had the strength to reach for my phone, dialing his number with trembling fingers. The tone dragged on, each beep like a hammer in my chest. Finally, someone picked up, and before I could even speak, clicked.

Disconnected. My phone slipped from my hands as my body sagged, and I thought that was it, that I was done. The last thing I saw before the world went black was the stupid words Call Ended blinking on the screen.

---

I woke up, throat dry, arm burning, and all I could smell was disinfectant.

Christopher was sitting there, leaning forward, gripping my hand. Melissa finally awake. Dont scare me like that again.

I tried to speak but only croaked out, What happened?

You had an allergic reaction, he said, voice low but sharp. The nurses they didnt know what they were doing. God, they were idiots.

I tried to move my arm and saw the bloody needle marks. You let them do this? My voice was trembling.

I wasnt there, okay? I had a meeting I couldnt get out of. But I swear, those nurses are fired. Fired, Melissa. You hear me?

I swallowed hard. Why why didnt anyone answer the call button? I triedno one came.

He sighed, frustration flashing in his eyes. Because I called everyone to Lillians place. The doctors. Everyone. I I didnt think youd react like that. Christ, Melissa, why do you always put yourself in danger?

I bit my lip. Because no one cares about me! Not like you care about her.

He flinched. Care about who? Melissa, Idont start. I told you before, youre the one I

I shook my head, cutting him off. Stop lying, Chris. You left me to almost die while shes there smiling. You let her have everything. Do you even care that Im here bleeding and scared out of my mind?

His jaw tightened, I I care. I care! God, Melissa, dont act like Im some bastard who doesnt give a shit. I fired them. Ill make sure nothing like this happens again. Youre my wife. Youre supposed to be my wife, and I

Supposed to be? Youre supposed to be! But where were you? Huh? You were nowhere when I needed you. And now you just sit there, giving me a soft fucking speech and a pat on the head like Im a kid?

He swallowed, looking guilty, hands tightening on mine. Melissa I know I fucked up. Okay? But Im here now. Thats what matters.

I laughed bitterly, tears stinging my eyes. Here now? You think sitting here holding my hand makes up for letting me nearly die? You think it makes up for all the nights you spent with her instead of me? You think it makes up for the lies, Chris?

He shook his head. No no, I cant fix everything in one night. But Ill do my best. I swear, youll never go through this again.

I swallowed, Do you even know how it feels to be invisible? To be the one everyone ignores while she gets the world?

Melissa I dont want you to feel that way. Youre mine. Youre always been mine. I

Stop, I said, jerking my hand away slightly. Dont you dare pull that line with me. I dont want your promises anymore. Im done pretending your words mean something. Youre the same bastard you always were.

He froze, then looked away, voice softer. Melissa I I just want you to rest. Please. Let me make sure youre okay.

I didnt answer. I just lay there, letting the tears roll down, feeling small and broken. And as he leaned down to kiss my forehead lightly before leaving, I realized he didnt even have the balls to stay and face me.

Rest, he said over his shoulder, voice fading. Ill be back later. I promise.

I closed my eyes, whispering to myself, bitter and broken. Yeah sure. You always promise, dont you?

I finally got discharged from the hospital, my body still aching and my arm stiff from the injections. I stepped through the door and froze. A childs laughter echoed from the living room, bright and carefree, mixed with a warm voice I hated to hear. Oh, sweetie, look who it is! Its Mommy

I looked up slowly. Christophers mother was holding Christopher's daughter, smiling as she held her phone, showing a picture of Lillian. My stomach twisted, and I felt my throat tighten.

Oh, youre back? her smile fading the second she saw me. Her tone was sharp, slicing through the air. Staying in the hospital all these days youre really precious, arent you? Chris is busy every single day, and you you just lie there enjoying yourself. Back then, you were nothing, just some poor nobody. If you hadnt clawed your way up to him, you wouldnt even have had the chance to sit in a ward like this.

I swallowed, voice trembling. It was the doctors orders

She snorted, cutting me off. Yeah, yeah, enough excuses. Now that youre back, dont just stand there. Chris hasnt had a proper meal lately, so take him some food at the company, and dont waste any time.

I lowered my eyes, nodded silently, and didnt argue. I felt hollow, like my own voice didnt even matter anymore.

An hour later, I showed up at his office with a lunchbox. Pushing the door open, my blood ran cold. A woman stood in front of Christophers desk, face hidden behind a huge mask, holding a stack of documents. The moment she turned, I recognized her. Lillian.

What are you doing here? I asked, my voice barely controlled.

She tilted her head, a smirk playing on her lips. Im here to deliver some documents. Dont tell me Mrs. Bellingham would interfere with something this trivial?

I tried to ignore her, setting the lunchbox down on the desk and turning to leave.

She stepped closer, voice soft but full of that fake sweetness that made my blood boil. Mrs. Bellingham I know you dont like me, but I really just came to deliver some documents

And then she grabbed my hand and shoved the soup I was carrying onto herself. The hot liquid soaked through her clothes, steam rising as her skin turned red instantly.

Ah! she screamed, eyes watering.

I stood frozen for a second, my heart thumping. Did she just do this on purpose? Was she trying to provoke me, to make me react?

I clenched my fists, Are you insane? Do you get off hurting yourself by messing with me?

Lillian looked at me, Oh, Melissa dont you get it? Im the one who matters to him now. You youre just background noise. Try and stop me if you can, but you wont. Youve already lost him.

You you think this makes you strong? Youre pathetic. And he he doesnt even care.

She laughed, a sharp, bitter sound. He cares about what matters. And thats me. Not you. Not your tears. Not your pain. You shouldve known that the moment you looked at him and thought you still had a chance. Watch me. Then she screamed. Melissa, don't hurt me!

The office door slammed open and Christopher walked in like he owned the place, his eyes flicking between Lillian and me. What the hell is going on here?

Lillian stepped back, biting her lip, tears threatening to fall. I Im sorry, Chris. Its my fault. I shouldnt have come here. Mrs. Bellingham must have misunderstood everything She glanced at me, scared, like I could snap at any moment.

He didnt even look at her. He went straight for me and grabbed my hand. Melissa are you burned? Did she touch you? His brow was furrowed so deep I thought it might crack.

I didnt splash her. It wasnt me.

Christophers jaw tightened, and then he let out a heavy sigh. I told you before, the assistant couldve delivered the documents. Get out! He gestured at Lillian.

Lillians red eyes filled with that fake wronged look. I I was just trying to

Get out! he cut her off, louder this time. She hesitated, then finally turned and left without another word.

He turned back to me, still holding my hand, his voice softer but tense. Melissa I didnt expect her to be this reckless. It wont happen again, I promise.

I stared at him, my chest tight. And you what about trusting me? You always leave me to deal with this crap alone.

His lips pressed together, then he smiled, almost helplessly. I love you, okay? I would never do anything to betray you. But you you need to trust me more. Dont go hurting people over nothing. Innocent people. You get that?

I pulled my hand away, frowning. I didnt hurt her. Fine. If you say no, then no. Jesus, Melissa. He glanced at his watch, impatience flashing. Ive got a meeting. Go home, rest. Ill come back early tonight. Ill keep you company.

And just like that, he left without waiting for me to respond.

I stood there, frozen, then found myself following him, my legs moving on their own. He walked fast, catching up to Lillian before I could say anything. She threw herself at him like she owned him. Chris, Im sorry, Ive been careful, really. Every time I come here, I disguise myself like a thief

His hands on her shoulders, voice low and dangerous. Dont cry. Ill clear your name for what happened back then. You dont need to hide anymore.

Her lips trembled, and she whispered, I just I dont want to sneak around anymore, not in my last moments

His eyes darkened, and for a second I thought he might crush her in that grip of his. I said dont cry. Youre done hiding. Done.

I felt bile rise in my throat and turned away before I said something Id regret. Back home, I checked my phone. My immigration application would be done in a few days. Finally.

I started packing, sorting through my things, throwing out what didnt matter, keeping only the documents, clothes, and the gift box Id prepared.

The moment Christopher opened the door, I could feel him stiffen. He paused, like he knew immediately something was wrong.

The room felt emptier than before, a lot of the decorations were gone, and a corner of the wardrobe was completely bare. Christophers voice broke the silence, low and uneasy, Melissa, why are so many things missing?

I didnt even look up. Its old, were getting new stuff.

His eyes fell on the gift box on the table. And whats this?

I made a little surprise for you. You can only open it in a few days.

He hesitated a moment, then nodded without pressing further. After a pause he said, Theres a family dinner tonight. Melissa, you come back to the old house with me.

I looked up at him and saw that look in his eyes. There was no way I could refuse. I just nodded and got into the car.

The old Bellingham house was bright, too bright, and too loud. I followed him into the living room and froze. His parents were there, Lillians parents, and Lillian was holding her daughter, laughing, teasing the little girl like she owned her. They looked so happy, so normal.

I slowly turned to Christopher. What what does all this mean?

He took my hand and his face softened a little. Melissa, we looked into everything. You misunderstood Lillian. You thought she was after you, but she wasnt. I know you acted because you love me too much. I dont blame you, okay?

I blinked at him, my voice shaky. Misunderstood? Christopher are you seriously telling me I would try to hurt her, frame her?

Before he could answer, his mother slammed her hand on the table. Still arguing? Get over here and kneel down! You need to be taught a lesson today!

Christopher stepped in front of me, frowning. Mom, we agreed an apology was enough, didnt we?

I shook off his hand. I did nothing wrong. Why the hell should I apologize?

Lillian, clutching her daughter, couldnt hold back anymore. Her eyes were red and wet. Sister Melissa, you know what happened back then. So many years have passed, why wont you just let me go?

Lillians mother lunged forward, ignoring Christopher, and slapped me hard across the face. You bitch! You framed my daughter, and now you still deny it? Lowly people like you are born liars!

I staggered back, blood trickling from the corner of my mouth. My eyes swept over everyone before locking on Christopher. You you dont believe me either?

He looked away, his jaw tight, but his fathers voice mentioned family discipline, and Christopher stepped in front of me instinctively.

Then his mother snapped at him, voice sharp and venomous. Christopher! How long are you going to protect her? Melissa hurt Lillian for years. She even made her sick, and still she ignores her own health to give birth to you!

Mom! Stop! Christopher shouted, panic and frustration in his voice as he turned to me, helplessness flashing in his eyes. Melissa I cant let you make the same mistake again.

He stepped aside, and two servants grabbed me, forcing me to my knees.

Christopher youre letting them do this?

The first hit slammed into my back.

I gasped, feeling the sharp sting as my clothes tore. I bit my lip so hard it hurt. I didnt I really didnt.

The second blow landed before I could catch my breath and warm blood seeped down my spine. My vision blurred and my ears were ringing, but I kept shaking my head. Everyone around me looked so cold, so indifferent, I couldnt even open my mouth to protest.

The hits kept coming, harder and heavier, and I clenched my teeth, refusing to say Id done anything wrong. When the last strike hit, I finally couldnt fight anymore. Darkness swallowed me and I felt myself go completely limp. I thought I heard Christopher shouting my name, his voice urgent, desperate, but it faded into nothing.

...

When I woke again, the hospital lights were harsh and the window outside was dark. Moving my fingers sent sharp pain ripping up my back and I groaned.

Melissa! Christophers voice was right beside me, tight with panic.

I barely turned my head. He bent down, grabbing my hand like it would steady me. Fuck, youre awake. How the hell are you feeling? Does it hurt that much? Talk to me!

I pulled my hand back slowly, silent.

Why are you so stubborn? His voice softened, edged with frustration. One word, one tiny admission, and we could have ended all this. Why do you have to be so stubborn and make me feel like Im fighting against a goddamn wall?

I didnt frame her

His expression froze, disappointment cutting through him. Melissa I wont blame you. But you cant keep acting like you dont give a damn. You cant keep being so unrepentant.

I closed my eyes and said nothing. I knew he wouldnt believe me anyway.

He stayed a moment, watching, before finally sighing and leaving the room. I didnt see him again for the rest of my stay. Every day I stared at the clouds outside, barely noticing the nurses when they changed my dressings. I wanted to ask for help but my voice always caught in my throat.

...

When the doctor finally said I could go home, I packed my small bag and stepped into the cold early autumn air. Pulling my coat tighter, I started to flag a taxi.

Then a hand clamped over my mouth, a sharp chemical smell filling my nose. I struggled, but my limbs felt heavy, my vision swimming.

When I woke again, I was hanging, wrists raw from the ropes. My head throbbed as I blinked and saw Lillian across from me, tied up too, holding her daughter who was wailing.

Woke up, huh? A masked mans voice came, grating and loud. Ill follow orders. Remember the last payment, okay?

Before I could even speak, the warehouse doors slammed open. Christopher stormed in, face pale, fury sharp. Put them down! I dont care how much you want! Just drop them now!

The kidnapper shook his head, smirking. Nope. Money wont work. Employer says he doesnt want cash. He wants a choice.

Lillians tears fell freely. Melissa why did you do this? Tying me up is one thing, but the baby? Why hurt her?

I shook my head, voice cracking, It wasnt me! I didnt

Christophers gaze cut to the air cushions theyd carefully set under me, his jaw tight and eyes cold as ice. Melissa, stop messing around. Tell them to stop. Now. I mean it. Stop this shit.

The kidnapper waved that stupid knife like he was god, his voice sharp: Hurry the fuck up and choose or Ill start cutting ropes wherever I want.

No! Lillian shook her head, tears falling fast. Sister Melissa, please, just let them put the baby down. It doesnt matter what happens to me. Im not afraid, but please, shes just a kid.

I wanted to tell her it wasnt my choice, that I wasnt doing this to her, but I couldnt get a word out before the bastard barked again: Choose, now! Or its her life and the kids.

Christophers voice tore through the chaos, raw and angry: Melissa! Stop messing with them! I dont care what youre trying to prove! I fucking love you, and you dont have to keep doing this! Dont hurt the kid!

I didnt I tried to shout, my throat tight, my chest aching, but the knife pressed against Lillians rope, and the kidnappers hand shook impatiently.

I choose Lillian and the baby! Christopher yelled, furious and desperate. Put them the fuck down!

The rope fell and Lillian collapsed into his arms, sobbing and shaking, murmuring, Chris, Im sorry, I didnt mean

Christopher held her tight, muttering, Shh, Ive got you. Its okay, its over. Youre safe now, both of you.

I barely breathed, watching him, hoping for something, anything. You youre leaving me? I whispered, voice trembling, but he didnt even glance at me.

He sighed, muttering, Melissa, Im not chasing you today, but this better be the last time you pull this shit. He rubbed his temples and put his arm around Lillian. Then he walked off, not noticing the bastard hadnt finished with me.

The kidnapper grinned like hed won a prize. Such a gift, Miss Davenport, so generous of you.

I felt the rope snap beneath me before I could even react. Pain exploded through my body, every bone screaming. I screamed too, my voice cracking, but the bastard was gone and the warehouse was silent except for the car engine fading in the distance.

When I woke, the cold hit first. My whole body felt broken. My hands shook as I tested them, every movement sending fire through my muscles. I tried to crawl, my legs barely moving. Somehow, my phone was still in my pocket.

I unlocked it, hands trembling. There it was. A message from Christopher, sent hours ago. Melissa, lets both calm down for a while.

And then the immigration confirmation. My application was approved. My hands shook as I read it over and over. I could leave, finally leave this nightmare.

I booked the next flight without thinking. Back home, I grabbed my luggage, already packed. This home, that place full of lies and fake smiles, meant nothing anymore. Christopher had posted pictures of our two families eating together on Instagram Stories. I stared at the photo, my lips twitching with bitter humor.

I sent him a message. I typed, Ive prepared a surprise for you. You can open it when you get home.

Then I pulled out the SIM card, snapped it in half, and threw it in the trash. I looked once at the gift box on the table, neat and meaningless, and walked out.

No looking back. No more pretending. Finally, I could take a breath, and maybe, just maybe, start living for me.