On Our Wedding, He'll Witness the Ballerina He Blinded

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Seven days before the wedding, I was standing outside a private room when I heard my fianc laughing.

The fire that burned her foster mom to death, maimed her foster dad, and blinded her? I set it.

The guy whos been sleeping with her every night these past two years? Not me. Its my dumb little brother-in-law.

And at the wedding, seven days from now, Ill replace the bride with the woman I truly love, right when she least expects it.

Everyone inside praised him for being so devoted, saying he had endured two years of torment just to punish me, the real heiress, and make way for his beloved childhood friend.

I froze outside the door, my body going cold, my ears ringing, my vision spinning.

I had been loving the bastard who destroyed my life, thinking he was my savior, and he had been toying with me for two fucking years?!

Alexis Berstein even took the dances Id poured my blood and sweat into over the past two years and handed them to his stupid childhood friend, trying to let her step onto the stage Id built and become an international ballet principal!

With a hollow heart, I dialed my phone.

Im getting the eye surgery myself, I said. Seven days from now, Ill step onto the stage at the Paris Opera as Butterfly, the choreographer everyone knows, with my new masterpiece!

Darceys POV

After the proposal, I went to Alexis to talk about the wedding, but I heard a burst of laughter from inside the room.

That dumbass actually thinks youre going to marry her? Bro, what the hell did you do to punish her these past two years? Spill it.

I heard Alexiss familiar voice, nonchalant and mocking.

First, I set a fire that burned her foster mom to death, maimed her foster dad, and blinded her.

Then, at night, I drugged her and sent my dumb little brother-in-law to sleep with her.

Finally, at the wedding in seven days, Ill tell her in front of everyone that the bride isnt her. Its Yasmine.

These three punishments make up for her stealing Yasmines place in the Georgsens and the deputy principal spot at the ballet company.

Every word hammered into my ears like a red-hot iron.

Fuck, bro, youre insane! someone joked. But that blind girls hot, so its not like youre losing out. Why let your brother-in-law enjoy her?

I heard disgust in Alexiss voice. I hate filth. Yasmines a neat freak. I want her pure.

At that moment, I felt like all the blood in my body froze.

I could only hold tightly onto the cold wall, so I wouldnt collapse on the spot.

It turned out that the fire two years ago, the one that ruined my life, was his crime.

Every dance I bled over, every painstaking creation over two years, he had handed to Yasmine.

The man who held me at night, kissed me, and slept with me? It wasnt him at all!

He had courted me, cared for me, proposed to me, pretending to love me deeply and without regrets? From the very start, he did all that just to fucking avenge Yasmine and pave the way for her!

People in the room kept talking.

But hey, bro, youre seriously ruthless. You suffered being around that blind disgusting girl for two years for Yasmine. Damn, you were even willing to take care of her disfigured foster father. You almost had us fooled. I thought you really loved her.

Alexis laughed like it was a joke.

Love her? Shes not even worthy. Yasmine and I grew up together. Darcey can never compare to my girl.

Someone in the room dragged out the words.

What if, at the wedding in seven days, Darcey finds out the brides been replaced by Yasmine? Shes gonna lose her mind. After all, shes the real heiress.

Alexiss voice was cold and cruel.

A blind, useless daughter or the daughter whos about to become the principal of an international ballet company? The Georgsens wont even think twice about who to choose between the two.

As for Darcey, if she wont let go, Ill just take her back to my parents place. My little brother-in-law seems to like her anyway.

He turned to the corner, mocking. What do you think, bro? Is that blind girl sexy enough for you? Want me to give her to you?

A voice answered, very much like Alexiss, except it was thicker and duller.

Sure, sure.

My body shook violently when I heard that.

I could not mishear that voice.

That was the guy that had been pressed against me every night, breathing into my ear!

I couldnt hold it together anymore. I ran blindly and stumbled for the door.

The world blurred around me, two years of treatment yielding almost nothing.

I barreled out of the bar, tripping hard over the steps and landing face-first in the alley.

Rain soaked me instantly as memories surged into my mind.

Five years ago, Id been brought back to the Georgsens by my biological parents, who refused to let Yasmine leave.

I didnt care back then; I still had foster parents who loved me anyway.

Two years ago, my talent earned me the deputy principal spot at the ballet company, and I was destined to become principal.

But on the day of the finals, the backstage suddenly caught fire.

My foster parents were waiting backstage for my performance to end. They were closest to the fire; they got trapped.

My foster mother burned to death on the spot; my foster father survived but was grotesquely burned.

And I was blinded by shattered stage lights.

For a dancer, losing your sight is basically a death sentence.

I lost it. I went crazy. I didnt eat, didnt drink, and refused to see anyone.

I tried to get back on my feet and dance, but I fell over and over.

I overheard my biological parents discussing marrying me off to some decent match.

I didnt want to marry anyone!

I didnt want to give up dancing!

And I sure as hell didnt want to be used as a bargaining chip while my foster father was still in the hospital, on the edge of life and death!

But back then, I was blind and couldnt walk steadily. How could I say resist?

It was exactly then that Alexis appeared in my life.

He took me away from the Georgsens' place and took my foster father to the best hospital.

He flew me across the world to see specialists and to get treatment.

My foster fathers burns were severe, his wounds constantly infected, needing daily care.

With such severe burns, most nurses refused to touch him, but Alexis never flinched. He cleaned, dressed, and bandaged my foster father himself.

Alexis knew I couldnt give up dance, so he built me a studio, padded the floors, and surrounded it with mats.

Every time I fell, he picked me up.

He said, Darcey, youre still the brightest dancer. Dont give up.

For two years, I relearned dance in darkness. I learned to feel the floor with my feet.

I fell, I bled, I created dances all those years.

Every one of them he recorded for me.

He said, When your eyes heal, show these to the world.

I imagined that day so many times. Finally regaining my eyesight, taking my work to the stage.

But now, I know he gave it all to Yasmine, letting her climb the ladder on the stage!

The rain grew heavier, I was cold to the point of losing feeling, but my mind uncontrollably recalled another thing.

Every night over the past two years, I thought that the guy who held me was Alexis.

I acted cute, I flirted, I got intimate. But he never said anything back.

I thought he was just shy.

But now

My stomach roiled violently as I recalled those nights. I collapsed, dry-heaving, the taste of blood thick in my throat.

My eyes were useless, but my hatred was sharp and clear.

Alexis ruined my life. He destroyed my family.

Christoph used me as a toy to satisfy his desires.

And Yasmine stole my dances, taking all the glory on the stage I once loved.

All because I went back to my biological parents?

They punished me like this?

Why the fuck is it always the wrongdoers who go unpunished?

No. I will not accept this!

I will definitely make them pay!

Hands trembling, I pulled out my phone and called someone.

Im getting the eye surgery myself.

Seven days from now, Ill step onto the stage at the Paris Opera as Butterfly, the choreographer everyone knows, with my new masterpiece!

Darceys POV

The person I contacted was my fan club president, Jules Marchal.

After I went blind, he tried countless times to convince me to try the latest eye-replacement technology abroad.

But Alexis told me he had never heard of it and warned me not to trust Jules.

Now, I didnt care anymore.

Even if there were serious side effects, I needed to see again.

Jules arranged everything almost instantly, like he had been waiting for me to say yes.

The next day, when they removed the bandages, I finally saw light.

My vision was still blurry, and everything overlapped, but I could barely make out peoples faces and shapes up close.

That small glimpse of clarity made me feel like I was losing my mind with joy.

Before I could call Jules to thank him, Alexiss phone call came through.

His voice was frantic, full of guilt and worry.

Babe, where are you? Why didnt you come home last night? he asked.

I only found out you werent home this morning, and I nearly died worrying. What if something had happened to you? If you got hurt, I wouldnt be able to survive, he continued.

I held the phone, and my heart, burning from seeing light for the first time, was instantly doused with cold water.

Every word sounded sincere, like the love in his voice was real.

If I hadnt heard what I heard last night, I probably would have melted again, like always.

After all, who could resist that kind of heartfelt love?

But now I only wanted to ask him one question.

Why?

How could he say he loved me and destroy my life at the same time?

I swallowed the words before I could say them.

I wasnt going to get any truth from him anyway.

I took a deep breath and softened my voice back to the gentle, dependent tone he was used to.

My eyes were uncomfortable last night, and I couldnt reach you, so I went to the hospital myself, I said.

His guilt deepened.

Im sorry, babe. I was at a work event last night. You were waiting at the hospital. Ill come get you right now, he said.

After hanging up, I sat in a chair in the hospital lobby and squinted as I contacted a lawyer friend I trusted to do me a favor.

I waited and waited, but Alexis never showed up.

Just as I was about to grab a cab, I saw two familiar figures on the other side of the lobby.

I pulled out my phone and turned on the camera.

There, in full view, were Alexis and Yasmine.

He was kneeling on one knee in front of her, holding her ankle, massaging it slowly and tenderly.

His movements were almost worshipful.

Pain shot up from my chest.

I thought of the countless times I had fallen during practice over the past two years.

Alexis would pick me up and call doctors to treat me.

But he had never once cared for me that gently.

Now, true love and fake love were standing right in front of me.

I could see exactly which was which.

Fake love was enough to fool a blind woman.

My heart tore in two.

Alexis suddenly looked up at me.

His expression shifted, but quickly relaxed.

Why was he tense? I couldnt see him.

Darcey! he called.

He pulled me into his arms.

His voice trembled with fear.

Im sorry Im late. Are your eyes still hurting?

I had been soaked and numb from the rain all night.

Being wrapped in a familiar embrace made me crave it for a split second.

I nearly struggled to push him away.

Then a quiet gasp came from behind me.

Alexis my foot hurts even more, Yasmine said.

He released me instantly and rushed to her side.

Did I use too much force just now? he asked.

I stood there, still feeling the warmth of him in my arms, and let out a bitter laugh.

He hurriedly explained while helping her.

Darcey, Yasmine twisted her ankle while dancing. Im taking her to get it checked, he said.

We grew up together. Shes like a little sister. Dont read into it, he added.

I interrupted softly.

Go ahead, I said.

I didnt cling like I used to when I couldnt see.

I didnt beg him to stay.

He looked a little uneasy but didnt question it.

He bent down in front of me and picked up Yasmine.

He carried her because I couldnt see.

I clenched my hands slowly.

My nails dug into my palms.

Before, he would always try to hide things with shes like a sister excuses.

I, blind as I was, had no choice but to trust him.

But now, seeing everything clearly, I couldnt lie to myself anymore.

It wasnt until late that Alexis finally came to pick me up.

Almost home, my phone buzzed.

A video from Yasmine came through.

It was her performance from earlier that day.

At the end of the video, Alexis walked onstage and kissed her amid the applause.

Then a voice message came through.

Yasmines soft, gentle voice said, Sis, I stepped onto a new stage today. Youll be happy for me, right?

She added, After all, I danced the choreography you created.

I gritted my teeth.

I tried to ignore the video.

I asked Alexis with a trembling voice, What does she mean, dancing the dances I choreographed?

I stared emptily in his direction.

I still clung to a ridiculous shred of hope.

Maybe he would finally tell the truth.

Even just a little.

He didnt even furrow his brow.

He answered naturally, Since Yasmine found out youre the genius choreographer Butterfly, shes admired you nonstop.

Shes been practicing the dances you made before, he continued.

She sent the video to let you feel her admiration, but I guess she forgot you couldnt see yet.

What a liar!

I almost couldnt hold back my rage.

That dance was the one I had choreographed just a week ago.

Alexis had stolen my work and given it to Yasmine.

The second we got home, he pinned me against the door.

He kissed me, acting afraid and apologetic.

Babe, dont think about anything else, okay? he said.

Darceys POV

Babe?

The word almost made me laugh.

I genuinely didnt understand what kind of sick fucking composure Alexis had to look at a woman he had personally destroyed and still call her that.

I came home today and you werent there. You really scared me.

He leaned in, brushing against me in a soft, almost coaxing way.

There was a time when I couldnt resist that.

His gentle kisses, his firm embrace, they always gave me the illusion that I was needed, that I was cherished.

Every time he got close like this, I would forget whatever I had been questioning him about.

All that remained was a softness I couldnt control, and somehow, I would end up comforting him instead.

But this time, all I felt was disgust.

In my mind, the same image replayed over and over again: him standing on that stage, kissing Yasmine in front of everyone, as if I meant nothing.

My stomach churned violently.

I shoved him away without hesitation.

I have a cold, I said, my voice tight, though I forced it to remain steady. I dont want to get you sick.

He clearly hadnt expected that.

It was the first time I had ever pushed him away like that.

His brows furrowed instantly, a trace of displeasure flashing through his eyes. But when he heard my reason, that emotion gradually faded.

He sighed, his tone softening again.

Why would I be afraid of catching something from you?

The irony was almost laughable.

What he had told his friends the night before, that he had been saving himself for Yasmine, was complete bullshit.

He was a healthy, impulsive man. When things turned intimate between us, there was no way he had ever stopped midway out of some twisted sense of restraint.

I only realized the truth just now when I felt his body react earlier.

And the moment it clicked, a wave of nausea surged through me.

The thought that I had been nothing more than a clueless object, handled, shared, and used at their convenience, made my skin crawl.

It was so revolting I nearly threw up.

Fortunately, whatever desire he had was gone.

As if nothing had happened, he reached out and held my arm.

Come on, he said gently. Ive prepared a surprise for you.

I didnt resist. My vision was recovering. I couldnt risk exposing it.

I upgraded the dance studio, he continued. From now on, everything you choreograph can be recorded by an intelligent system.

We can upload it to the Butterfly account.

Even if your eyesight doesnt recover for now, your dances can still be seen. He smiled faintly. Do you like it?

If this had been before, I might have been moved to tears.

For a dancer who had lost her sight, being able to leave her work behind in the world would have meant everything.

But now, all I felt was cold.

Because I knew exactly why he had rushed to upgrade the studio.

Six days later, on the day after our wedding, Yasmine would be competing for the position of principal dancer.

And Butterflys choreography was her greatest bargaining chip.

That account was mine.

I created it before the Georgsens ever took me back, back when I was trying to earn money just to keep dancing. I hid my face, uploaded my choreography online and gained recognition almost overnight.

People in the industry were willing to pay an absurd price for a single piece from the so-called genius choreographer Butterfly.

But I had never intended to reveal myself. To me, choreography had always been something personal.

Now, Yasmine was using my work to build her reputation.

It was fucking absurd.

I dont want to choreograph anymore.

He stiffened.

His voice dropped sharply, the irritation no longer concealed.

If you dont choreograph, what exactly are you going to do? Sit around and be useless?

The moment the words left his mouth, he realized his mistake.

I mean

He quickly corrected himself.

Dont you want to dance again at our wedding in six days? Im preparing a custom stage for you. Even if you cant see, you wont fall. You can dance safely.

Dance at our wedding?

I let out a silent, humorless laugh.

The one dancing that day would never be me.

Seeing that I wasnt reacting the way he expected, his jaw tightened.

And your adoptive father woke up recently, didnt he?

Dont you want him to see you dance again?

I almost admired the audacity.

He was willing to use even my father as leverage just to make me choreograph for Yasmine.

Fine.

If that was what he wanted, then I would give it to him.

I let my voice waver slightly, as if I were hesitating.

Then Ill choreograph one more piece.

He visibly relaxed.

Good. I wont disturb you.

He turned and walked out of the studio.

Through the narrow gap of the door, I heard him make a call.

Yasmine, she agreed. The studios monitoring system is already synced to you. At the wedding, you can claim that youre Butterfly.

With the footage, youll be able to explain every movement in detail. There wont be any inconsistencies. And the next day, your audition for principal will go much more smoothly.

After that, youll be the principal dancer.

And the genius choreographer. Butterfly.

I bit down so hard I nearly drew blood.

So this was their plan.

They werent just stealing my choreography.

They were going to take my name, my identity, everything I had fought for.

Tears burned in my eyes, but I forced them back.

There were cameras in the studio.

So I continued practicing, as if I knew nothing.

Yasmine wanted to become Butterfly?

Then lets see whether shes actually worthy of it.

I stayed in the studio for an entire day and night.

My vision recovered quickly, the once-blurred world gradually sharpening into clarity.

And during that time, I didnt forget to gather evidence.

Evidence that would ruin Alexis completely.

The next day, he suddenly pushed open the studio door.

Take a break today, he said. Ill take you to pick out a wedding ring.

I tried to refuse, but he had already led me outside.

By the time we reached the car, someone was already seated in the passenger seat.

Yasmine turned around, her smile soft and gentle.

Darcey, Alexis said you cant see well, so he asked me to help you choose a ring.

She tilted her head slightly, her tone sweet, almost sickening.

You dont mind, do you?

Darceys POV

I got into the back seat without a word.

As if afraid I might misunderstand, Alexis explained, Darcey, Yasmines about your age. You two have similar taste, so I asked her to help pick out the ring.

Taking advantage of the fact that I was blind, Yasmine leaned closer to him, her fingers slipping over to idly play with the hand he wasnt using to steer.

Darcey, I really envy you, she said sweetly. You have a fianc who loves you this much. Hes even this attentive when choosing a wedding ring.

Their movements were subtle, practiced.

It clearly wasnt the first time they had flirted right in front of me.

A dull ache spread through my chest, but my expression didnt change.

You have plenty of admirers, I said evenly. If you want to get married, therell always be someone lining up to pick out a ring for you. Theres no need to envy me.

Her smile stiffened for a fraction of a second before returning.

When would I even have time to get married? she said lightly. Im about to compete for principal dancer.

She paused, as if suddenly realizing something.

Oh, did I say the wrong thing? Her voice softened with feigned concern. Darcey, Im sorry. Did I touch a nerve?

Before I could respond, Alexis reached out and gently patted her hand in reassurance.

Dont overthink it, he said calmly. Your sister isnt that fragile. She wont mind.

My heart still lurched despite myself.

There was a time I would have fallen for exactly this.

Back when I first lost my sight, everyone thought I was finished.

He was the only one who held my hand again and again, telling me, Darcey, you wont stay down forever. Youll stand on that stage again.

Back then, I thought he understood me, believed in me, and held me together.

Now, every word felt like a fucking joke.

The car stopped in front of a jewelry store.

The moment we stepped inside, Yasmine became noticeably more animated.

This ones pretty.

Oh, this ones nice too.

She picked out several rings in a row, but never once placed one in my hand. Instead, she slipped them onto her own fingers, turning her wrist under the light, then lifting her hand toward Alexis.

Alexis, does this look good?

He answered her with patience.

At first, he still glanced at me out of habit. But when he saw my blank expression, like I truly couldnt see anything, he gradually relaxed.

He reached out and lightly patted her head, his voice soft.

Take whichever one you like.

The indulgence in his tone was barely concealed.

The sales associate smiled at me.

Oh, so youre here accompanying your younger sister and her fianc to pick out rings?

Yasmine immediately waved her hand with a laugh.

No, no. My sister cant see, so Im helping her and my brother-in-law choose.

When she said brother-in-law, she enunciated it just a little too clearly.

The sales associate hesitated, then gave an awkward smile.

In that case, would you like to try one of our new designs? It was just created by the well-known designer Windy.

Its very beautiful and one of a kind. I think youll like it.

She took out the ring and was about to help me try it on.

But Yasmines hand reached out first.

Ill try it.

She slipped the ring onto her own ring finger, then raised her hand toward Alexis.

Alexis, look. Does it suit me?

The sales associate couldnt help but murmur,

Isnt it usually the bride who tries it on for the groom? Its not like the groom cant see

The words struck like a needle.

Yes. The groom could see.

It was just that the person he wanted to look at had never been me.

Alexis cleared his throat lightly and turned to me.

Darcey, do you want to try it?

Before I could answer, Yasmine had already taken the ring and walked over.

She stood close enough for me to clearly see the undisguised malice in her eyes.

I instinctively tried to pull back, but she had already grabbed my hand.

Darcey, let me put it on for you.

The next second, she forced the ring onto my finger.

The size fit her perfectly.

On me, it was too small.

The sharp edge scraped against my skin instantly. Pain shot through my finger, and I flinched, reflexively shaking her off.

I hadnt used much strength.

But she let out a sharp scream and fell backward dramatically.

Ah!

At the same time, the ring was dragged off with her movement, scraping hard across my finger.

A thin line of blood split open immediately.

But Alexis didnt even notice.

All he saw was her falling.

Yasmine!

His expression changed instantly as he rushed to check on her. After confirming she wasnt hurt, he turned on me, anger flashing in his eyes.

Darcey, what the hell are you doing? She was just trying to help you pick a ring. Why did you push her?

His voice was sharp, urgent.

What if she hurt her leg? She has a competition coming up!

My finger was still bleeding.

He didnt even glance at it.

Yasmine leaned weakly against him, her voice trembling with grievance.

Alexis forget it. This is my fault. It seems like my sister still doesnt like me. I shouldnt have tried to help her with the ring.

She lowered her head.

If I got hurt and couldnt dance anymore, maybe my sister would feel a little better.

Darceys POV

Apologize, he said.

Every word was sharp, leaving no room for argument.

Darcey, apologize to Yasmine, he ordered.

I froze in place, feeling the blood drain from my body.

I was the one who had been hurt.

Yet I was the one forced to bow.

I forced myself to speak.

The ring didnt fit. She was going to put it on me anyway. I just pushed her, and she fell herself!

Enough! Alexis snapped.

His face was dark as iron.

Are you seriously trying to accuse Yasmine? Shes about to compete for the top spot. How could she possibly hurt herself just to frame you?

Or are you just jealous that shes about to become the ballet companys lead and want to ruin her?

I almost laughed at how ridiculous that was.

I would never be jealous of a thief.

Im not jealous of someone whos clearly less capable than me, I said coldly.

Darcey! he roared.

His anger and his blatant defense of Yasmine were impossible to miss.

Even though Id known all along that his love for me had been an act.

Even so, seeing him protect Yasmine without hesitation, while withholding trust from me, made my chest ache as if it had been ripped open.

Alexis lowered his head toward Yasmine, his voice soft.

Where does it hurt, Yasmine? Tell me, he asked.

Yasmine pressed her lips together, speaking quietly.

My hand hurts a little, she said.

Her fingertip was only slightly red.

But Alexis immediately turned to me with a stern expression.

Darcey, this behavior of hurting someone out of jealousy must be punished, he said.

My heart sank as he pulled a pen from his suit pocket and handed it to Yasmine.

His voice was frighteningly cold.

Yasmine, poke the finger that hurts on her, he said.

Only when she feels the pain will she understand that bullying is wrong.

I froze, unable to believe what I was hearing.

I turned to leave, but it was too late.

With Alexiss help, Yasmine caught my wrist, looking hesitant.

The next moment, the pen jabbed toward my ring finger.

But just before it touched me, her hand twisted suddenly.

Ah!

The pen plunged straight into the center of my palm.

Pain exploded instantly.

I couldnt control my scream.

My entire palm was shredded.

Yasmine seemed terrified, letting go and stepping back with tears.

Im sorry I was scared, and my hand shook she sobbed.

Alexis clearly didnt expect this to happen.

There was a flicker of hesitation in his eyes, but Yasmine had already supported me first.

On the surface, it looked like she was helping me.

But from an angle Alexis couldnt see, her sharp nails dug into the bloody hole in my palm.

Pain ripped through me, leaving me voiceless.

All the hate and anger Id held back finally exploded.

I swung my hand and slapped Yasmine across the face.

Alexiss face went pale.

Darcey! Are you crazy?! he yelled.

He shoved me hard.

I stumbled and slammed into the glass display case in the jewelry store.

With a crash, the glass shattered instantly.

Sharp fragments cut into my back, arms, and legs, exploding with pain.

Blood soaked my clothes quickly.

I trembled from the pain.

Yasmines eyes flashed with anger.

She dove into Alexiss arms, pretending to be pitiful.

Alexis I just wanted to check her wound, but she suddenly hit me she said.

Maybe shes frustrated from being blind for so long and took it out on me.

Im fine. But what if she goes crazy at the wedding and hurts someone?

Alexiss face darkened completely.

He looked at me as if I were insane.

Darcey, your mind is twisted, he said.

Since youve lost control, a psychologist will treat you.

Yasmine spoke softly.

Sis still has dances to choreograph. Maybe bring the doctor home?

Just like that, they decided my fate.

That day, the psychologist Alexis hired moved into the villa.

The therapy was nothing but needles, intimidation, and humiliation.

Any resistance was met with hair-pulling and slaps until I submitted.

The scars I had from my breakdown after losing my sight

Were treated as sins by the psychologist.

He ground off the skin layer by layer with a file.

The raw flesh burned with pain.

I was sweating cold, pinned down, unable to move.

Until the old scars were covered in fresh blood, leaving a red, blurred mess of skin.

Only in the dance studio, while choreographing, could I escape him.

I practiced with hatred, pushing myself to the limit.

I choreographed dances for Yasmine by day and my own by night.

Only in the bathroom could I secretly contact my lawyer for a moment.

Three days later, I had lost a lot of weight.

The old scars were gone, replaced by countless fresh needle marks and bruises.

Alexis hadnt come home in days.

Meanwhile, Yasmines social media was updated every day.

Trying on wedding dresses, choosing flowers, checking the venue, setting up decorations.

In every photo, Alexis was by her side.

They were brazenly preparing their final revenge, knowing I couldnt see.

Of course, I was preparing, too.

That night, Alexis finally returned.

He stopped in his tracks, clearly surprised at how much weight I had lost in just three days.

A flicker of pity crossed his eyes.

He walked over and held me in his arms.

Why have you gotten so thin? he asked.

I said lightly, Isnt this what you wanted?

His body stiffened with concern.

The next moment, he kissed me.

The kiss was soothing, but I resisted with all my strength.

He thought I was sulking and hugged me tighter, helpless.

Im sorry, babe. I didnt think he would be so harsh on you, he said.

He handed me a glass of milk.

Drink some milk to calm down. Tonight, Ill be with you, okay?

Seeing the milk, I realized immediately what he wanted.

He was trying to get that idiot Christoph to comfort me in bed for him again.

I refused immediately.

Im not feeling well. You dont need to stay tonight, I said.

Alexis frowned, clearly thinking I was throwing a tantrum.

He took a sip of the milk. Next thing I knew, he was fucking forcing it into my mouth.

Darceys POV

As my consciousness slowly sank, I heard Alexis curse in a low voice by my ear.

Fuck! If that idiot hadnt gotten a taste for women and started clinging to me every damn day, threatening to tell my mom if I refused, I wouldnt have had to go this far.

I bit down hard on my tongue, forcing myself to stay awake.

The door opened, and Christoph walked in.

Before, when I couldnt see, I could never tell them apart, but now that my vision had returned, I could easily see the difference.

Standing by the bed, there was nothing foolish or vacant in Christophs eyes.

My pupils shrank suddenly.

So he had been pretending all along.

Christoph had been brought into the Bersteins by Alexiss mother and had grown up dependent on them; in order to survive, he played dumb and acted like a fool, but in reality, he coveted everything: the Bersteinss inheritance, Alexiss position, and even Alexiss woman.

Maybe because he thought I still couldnt see, he didnt even bother pretending anymore.

He lunged forward and shoved me down onto the bed.

My whole body trembled as fear and hatred exploded in my chest at the same time.

Get the hell off me!

I struggled with everything I had, but my strength was nothing compared to his.

Christophs grip was like iron as he pinned my wrists down, his movements rough and unrestrained.

No. I would rather die than let them keep trampling me like this.

The moment he lowered his head, I suddenly lifted my leg and kicked him hard between the legs.

He let out a sharp scream and doubled over instantly.

Before I could react, a heavy slap crashed across my face, sending me straight to the ground as a ringing filled my ears.

Then I felt a warm flow spreading between my legs.

I froze completely, my mind going blank.

Christoph looked down at the blood rapidly spreading beneath me, then rushed to the door and yanked it open, instantly switching back to that stupid, panicked act as he shouted, Shes bleeding!!

Alexis rushed in, and the moment he saw the blood on the floor, his expression changed drastically.

Soon after, the sound of an ambulance filled the air, and I was lifted onto a stretcher.

When the test results came out, I felt like I had been struck by lightning.

I was pregnant.

There was no joy, only a wave of nausea so strong it made me want to throw up.

Alexiss reaction, however, was completely different; when he realized the child might be his, a trace of excitement actually surfaced in his eyes, while Christoph also showed a flicker of surprise, clearly convinced that the child must be his.

Each of them calculating their own interests, Alexis sent Christoph away and then pulled me tightly into his arms, saying, Baby, Im so happy. Were actually having a child.

He had no intention of getting rid of it; I had been with him long enough that he was used to me, and if the child turned out to be his, then after the wedding, even if he wouldnt marry me, he could still keep me by his side as a lover.

I simply looked at him coldly.

Happy?

Had he been acting for so long that he actually started believing his own bullshit?

In just two days, he would completely discard me, yet here he was, still playing the role of a loving husband.

It was disgusting.

He even made a video call, saying, Dad, I have some good news.

When the screen lit up, I saw my adoptive father for the first time since my vision returned, and my breathing stopped instantly because his body was covered in dense burn scars, ugly and horrifying, all of it caused by Alexis.

Tears fell silently as the hatred in my chest grew even stronger.

Whats wrong? my father asked in panic. Lingling, are you feeling unwell?

Alexis also froze for a moment, frowning slightly as he looked into my eyes, as if he had briefly thought I could see.

I forced myself to act as if I still couldnt see and squeezed out a smile that looked worse than crying as I said, Dad, Im pregnant Are you happy?

He smiled and said, Of course, Im happy.

But the hatred inside me burned even more fiercely.

Alexis, I will make you suffer more than I ever did.

After ending the call, he casually asked, By the way, is your choreography finished? Will the pregnancy affect your dancing?

Just a moment ago, he had been talking about how happy he was, and now he was already worried about whether my pregnancy would delay the choreography. He was worried that it would affect Yasmines competition.

I clenched my teeth and said, Its almost done.

His voice softened again to an almost gentle degree as he said, Thats good. You can finish it while its still early, and then perform it at our wedding.

That night, after we returned to the villa, Alexis went to take a shower, and the moment I heard the water running, I immediately got up, walked to the study, and opened his safe.

The password was something he had entered in front of me these past few days; he thought I couldnt see, so he never bothered hiding it.

I took photos of all the documents, sent them to my lawyer, and then carefully put everything back in place, though the tightness in my chest didnt ease.

I walked into the back garden, where the pool reflected a cold light under the moon, and the child inside me had appeared so suddenly that I didnt even know how to deal with it.

Before I could sort out my thoughts, I noticed that Yasmine had appeared at some point; thinking I couldnt see, she quietly approached me, her gaze falling on my stomach as her expression twisted for a brief moment.

Earlier, when she tried to get close to Alexis, she must have realized something was off, especially when she saw that he actually showed concern for the child, and with how perceptive she was, she immediately understood that Alexis had slept with me, which meant the child wasnt necessarily Christophs. It could very well be Alexiss.

If it cant be confirmed then maybe it shouldnt exist at all, she murmured softly, her tone turning resolute as she stepped closer to me.

Help! Someone help!

Now that my vision had returned, I was no longer going to let her do as she pleased, so I immediately shouted for help.

Her expression changed, clearly not expecting to be exposed, but in the next second, she suddenly smiled.

In that case, lets see, she said softly, between you and me, who Alexis will choose.

As soon as the words fell, she gave up trying to push me into the water and instead suddenly threw herself backward with a splash, she fell straight into the pool.

Darceys POV

Yasmine!

Alexiss eyes went bloodshot, and without a second of hesitation, he dove straight into the water to save her.

Within moments, Yasmine was carried back onto the shore, soaked from head to toe, crying like shed been wronged.

Alexis, I was just worried my sister couldnt see the path near the pond, so I wanted to remind her to be careful.

Who wouldve thought shed suddenly go crazy and shove me into the water?

Alexiss face darkened in an instant, terrifyingly cold.

Darcey, looks like three days of training and treatment didnt fix whats wrong with you.

If thats the case, Ill teach you myself.

He grabbed me without warning and shoved me straight into the pond.

The freezing water swallowed me whole in a second.

I struggled desperately, but every time I managed to grab onto the edge, Alexis stomped on my hands like he was trying to crush them.

Apologize to Yasmine.

You dont get out until you admit you were wrong.

I didnt I tried to explain.

But the water rushed into my throat, choking me before I could finish.

I finally fought my way back to the surface, trying to speak again.

Right then, Yasmine suddenly frowned.

Alexis my foot really hurts.

His expression changed instantly, all the anger gone, replaced with panic.

Where does it hurt?

I think I twisted it just now

His face tightened, and he immediately picked her up.

Im taking you to the hospital.

I dragged myself onto the shore, my body trembling, blood pooling beneath me, and called out weakly, Alexis, my stomach hurts so bad please call an ambulance dont leave

Even if I hated this childs existence, some instinct in me still wanted to protect it.

Alexis hesitated for a split second when he saw the blood on me.

But the moment Yasmine whimpered again, he forgot about everything else.

He said he would have a doctor check on me later, then turned around and left without another glance.

My hands shook as I pulled out my phone and dialed a number.

J-Jules, can you come pick me up?

The person on the other end agreed immediately.

I didnt dare wait near the villa, so I forced myself to walk out the gate, step by step.

A Rolls-Royce stopped in front of me not long after.

Right before I passed out, I vaguely saw a tall man step out of the car and catch me in his arms.

The baby didnt make it.

I lay in the hospital bed, staring blankly at the ceiling, my face completely numb.

Jules stood by the bed like he had a thousand things he wanted to say, but in the end, he only murmured, Focus on recovering. On the day of the chief selection, Ill be the first one to bring you flowers.

He turned to leave, but I grabbed the corner of his shirt.

I hated asking anyone for help, but right now, he was the only one I could rely on.

Can you take me away the night before my wedding? I asked.

Why not leave now? he countered.

I still havent gotten the evidence I need, I said.

He agreed.

I stayed in bed for two full days.

On the third day, I was finally able to get up.

When I reached the hallway, I overheard a couple of nurses whispering in the corner.

I heard a ballerina was admitted to the next department a couple days ago.

She only had a mild fever, but every specialist in the hospital came to consult.

I heard her boyfriend stayed by her side the whole time.

Meanwhile, the pregnant woman in our ward miscarried, and she doesnt even have a single family member with her.

Thats just sad as hell.

I let out a quiet, self-mocking laugh and walked over to the water dispenser to pour myself a cup.

I no longer had any expectations for Alexis.

Hearing how carefully he treated Yasmine didnt stir anything in me anymore.

To him, neither I nor my child meant even a fraction of what Yasmine did.

The files I sent to the lawyer had already gotten a solid response.

It was time to close the net.

At the same time, on the other side of the hospital, Alexis had just walked out of Yasmines room when his gaze suddenly froze.

That person just now looked a lot like me.

But the next second, he shook his head.

Thats impossible.

Darcey is blind.

She can barely walk without help.

Theres no way she could calmly pour water and walk back to her room like that.

Just as I returned to my room, Yasmine sent me a video.

In the video, she was pressed up close to Alexis, her neck covered in obvious hickeys.

A voice message followed right after.

Hey, blind girl.

If only you could see.

Then youd see all the marks Alexis left on me.

She let out a soft, venomous laugh, dripping with smugness.

I suggest you record the dance you choreographed today and send it to me.

Dont try anything clever.

Otherwise, Ill have Alexis throw your blind ass into a nightclub, and while were at it, well kick your useless dad right out of the hospital.

She was getting desperate.

The chief selection was the day after tomorrow, and she still didnt have my choreography.

I closed my eyes, and the memory of my adoptive fathers burn scars made my chest ache.

Yasmine had no idea I had already arranged for him to be transferred somewhere safe.

She still thought she could threaten me with him.

But thats fine.

She wants the dance.

Ill give it to her.

I went back to the villas dance studio and performed the piece I prepared for her.

Not long after, Alexis pushed the door open, a strange hint of anticipation in his voice.

Wife, the wedding is tomorrow.

You havent tried on your dress yet. Do you want to put it on today?

I didnt understand what kind of act he was putting on now.

It doesnt matter. I cant see anyway, so whats the point? I said flatly.

He frowned, noticing something was different about me.

I used to cling to him.

If he didnt come home for a few days, I would panic and call him nonstop.

But these past few days, he hadnt contacted me at all.

And I hadnt reached out once.

Something about that made him uneasy.

Right then, his phone buzzed, and he stepped aside to answer it.

A friends voice laughed on the other end.

Bro, weve got a gift prepared for your wedding tomorrow.

I quietly stepped aside and started recording on my phone.

The voice continued, Tomorrow, were bringing that idiot Christoph to the wedding.

Well have him call Darcey his wife in front of everyone, then guide him to kiss her right there.

Everyone will think shes been screwing around with a retard.

Youll walk away clean as hell.

My whole body went cold, but they werent done.

And well find a way to break Darceys legs.

She wont be dancing ever again, and Yasmine will be the only ballet genius left.

My hand was shaking so badly I could barely hold the phone.

Just how much do they fucking hate me?

How far do they need to go to feel satisfied?!

Alexis seemed hesitant for a moment, but in the end, he said, Fine, but dont hurt her stomach.

The person on the other end sounded shocked.

No way, bro. Are you actually catching feelings for the blind girl?

Alexis immediately denied it.

Dont be ridiculous. I just dont want her miscarrying at the wedding. Thatd be bad luck.

I stopped the recording before they finished and went back to my room.

Not long after, Alexis came in and stood by the bed, his voice gentle.

Wife, its the night before the wedding, so I have to go back to the old house to prepare.

Youll be alone tonight, but dont be scared.

Tomorrow will definitely be a very happy day.

I looked at him and smiled softly.

Yeah.

Tomorrow will be very happy.

Like hell it will.

Alexis. Tomorrow, youre going to fall straight into hell.

After he left, I immediately called Jules to come get me.

I walked out of the villa and looked up at the world.

The light was clear, and the colors were real.

In the distance, a familiar Rolls-Royce pulled up.

Jules opened the door for me and handed me a bouquet.

Congratulations, Butterfly.

You can see again, and youve been reborn.

I took the flowers, smiled, and thanked him before getting into the car and leaving the place that had trapped me for two years.

Of course, before I left, I made sure to leave the groom three very special wedding gifts.

Alexis, I cant wait to see the look on your face when you find them.