Forsaken Wife Reclaims Power, Leaves Husband to Ruin

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On the day of my daughters one-month naming ceremony, a photo of my husband Adrian Wilkinson kissing his mistresss ballet shoes went viral in trending searches and was even labeled the sweetest normal couple.

Within the banquet hall, everyone expected that I, who had loved Adrian so much, would again cry, call him repeatedly, and kneel as I begged him to return to name the child.

But I just calmly announced that the child would bear my surname, Pearson, and ended the banquet.

That night, when my mother-in-law confronted me, I directly said that I wanted a divorce.

The child stays with me. She is still your granddaughter, but she is no longer related to Adrian.

Liliana Wilkinson could not believe that I, who had grown up together with Adrian and had been willing to give up my job to be a proper wife for him, would suddenly choose to leave the father and keep the child.

She did not know that the night before, as our daughter had a fever and cried in distress, Adrian, as her father, had been in the study on the phone with his mistress in an intimate way.

I stood outside the study and kept hearing the steady panting from inside, while the womans voice over the phone sounded sweet.

Adrian, does she sound nicer when she calls you, or do I sound nicer?

I heard Adrians voice with desire and gave a soft laugh.

Of course its you, baby. Shes like a strict teacher in bed, killing the mood. You suit me better.

At that point, my heart was entirely gone.

Since Adrian did not love me anymore, there was no point in continuing this marriage.

I chose to take my daughter with me and divorce him.

On my daughters full-month banquet day, the present my husband Adrian gave her was him trending online with another woman.

In the trending image, the usually unrestrained leader of Wilkinson Group was kneeling on one knee, devotedly kissing ballet dancer Amira Walters ballet shoes.

Netizens flooded the comments, saying Adrian was deeply affectionate and calling them the sweetest normal couple.

They had no idea that this affectionate man had still taken me repeatedly in bed earlier that morning.

At the banquet, the guests looked at me with pity mixed with gossip.

Maam, I will have someone take down the trending search immediately

The housekeeper worried I would become too angry and harm my body, which had only just recovered after childbirth.

My voice remained calm like water.

No need.

He dared to secretly join a normal dating show, so he should have expected to trend.

The servant paused. What about the naming ceremony?

I answered right away.

There is no need to wait for Adrian to return. The child will carry my last name, named Isabel Pearson.

The servant was startled, hands damp. Maam, this

The people who hoped to see me break down and act wild were also stunned; they did not think that purposely showing this trending topic to me would lead to this kind of response.

The comments suddenly spread fast.

Is Eloise out of her mind? Her husband is matching with someone on a dating show, she does not rush to beg him to return; instead, she wants to switch the childs last name.

Isnt she known as the toughest wife in the capital circle? Every time she finds cheating, she causes trouble, always eager to keep Adrian tied to her side.

Earlier, when President Wilkinson held a hidden talk with a secretary in the company, and it came out, she used abortion as a threat to make the other person quit, which made President Wilkinson very upset.

I think she became clever, wants to use this way to make Adrian give in, acting like she is not easy to get.

The sound of people laughing mixed with the noise of glasses hitting each other, like many tiny pins stabbing my heart.

They all believed I was using a step back to move forward method, waiting to see how I would finish it.

I just stared blankly at my one-month-old baby in my arms.

Bright lights kept bursting one by one in the night sky over the estate.

The glow from the bursts shone into my fully empty eyes, bright, wide, but short.

In truth, I was not acting distant; I had only been a housekeeper for five years, and I felt worn out from handling everything.

I did not want to handle anything anymore.

Once the guests were gone, Liliana, after learning about it, was so angry her face flushed red. She dialed Adrian and yelled.

Adrian, come back to the old house immediately! Dont you know what day it is today? Shooting that kind of low-class dating show, embarrassing yourself!

On the other end, Adrians voice came off relaxed.

Mom, the contracts already been signed. If I leave now, it counts as a breach and will affect Wilkinson Groups stock price, which has just bounced back.

He thought briefly, then said, Eloise is with you, right? Help me soothe her, just tell her everything in the shows just acting. Tell her not to cry for too long or harm her body. After I finish recording this episode, Ill buy that seaside villa shes been wanting for a long time and give it to her.

How did I raise such a bastard like you?!

Liliana was so angry that she threw the phone straight onto the carpet.

She turned around, grabbed my hand tightly, and said with pain, Eloise, youve suffered. Mom will stand up for you and make him kneel and come back to apologize

I held her fingertips instead and gently said, Mom, dont be angry, I want to tell you something.

I talked in a calm tone.

When my parents passed away in a car crash, and our family lost everything, it was you who supported me through hard times, and didnt let the Pearson family get taken by others. Ive always held this kindness in my heart.

You said you wanted Adrian to settle down, so when he chased after me, I guided him to learn how to handle the company.

Afterward, I chose to be with him, also because I wanted to be part of a family with you.

Over these years, even though he was unfaithful often, I didnt decide to leave, aside from still having some feelings for him, it was also because I couldnt bring myself to leave you.

Liliana felt as if a knife were stabbing her heart, opened her lips, but couldnt say anything.

Mom, I first believed that as long as I held things tightly and watched closely, Adrian would come back to me like before and still care for me like that, but I was mistaken; his feelings have already changed.

My voice was quiet.

My life cant just be about pretending for a man who doesnt come home. Mom, I want a divorce.

Lilianas tears poured out, her voice trembling, Then the child? Shes still very little

The child will stay with me and take my surname, Pearson. Shell still be your granddaughter, but she wont be Adrians daughter anymore.

I softly interrupted her, Mom, please let me leave, okay?

The room fell into deep silence. I thought she wouldnt agree and had already prepared to convince her.

But Liliana saw the firmness in my eyes and finally nodded weakly. Okay since you call me Mom, youre also my daughter. Mom will help you deal with it.

She said softly, a bit lost, Back then, Adrian liked you so much. How did things end up like this?

My nose stung, and I held back my tears.

Yes, Adrian used to like me very much.

Adrian, the top Playboy in the capital, suddenly woke up at eighteen and fell in love with me, his childhood sweetheart.

He bought a private island worth billions for my birthday.

Bought the right to name a star for thousands of years and used my name;

And because I didnt like roses that fade, he spent a lot of money hiring top research teams around the world just to create a flower that wouldnt wither.

Later, I simply said I didnt like lazy rich heirs, he held back his slack ways, and used his own skill to take the CEO seat of the Wilkinson family, using trillion-level cross-border cooperation to stay firm at the top of the business world.

On the day I said yes to his proposal, one hundred private planes flew around the city to share the good news, and rose petals were spread for three days and three nights.

We were a couple of others admired in everyones view.

But no one thought that after only five years, Id choose divorce because I was tired of dealing with Adrians cheating everywhere.

Late at night, I had just helped my daughter fall asleep, and Adrian sent a photo.

The scene showed a messy hotel bed, with many kinds of condom brands spread across it.

Right after that, he sent fifty-two thousand to me and added a message.

[Wife, at todays full-month banquet, you did well, didnt behave like a loud woman causing trouble, and didnt phone me to push me, very good, finally got more understanding.]

[Come on, help me pick out of these condom brands, which one feels better to you?]

[These got used this morning, you didnt forget how it felt, right?]

So the reason Adrian acted strangely this morning and dragged me to do it again and again was not that he suddenly changed his thoughts, but because he wanted me to try it first for his lover.

Adrian still seemed stuck in a defiant stage, on one side not wanting me to manage him or disturb him, yet each time he teased around on purpose to let me notice.

He treated my collapse and my crying as his rewards.

I feel worn out.

I did not want to comfort him anymore or go along with this kind of behavior.

Liliana said she would take care of the divorce. After seven days, I would bring the child and go away.

Early the following morning, I got a cold and had a fever, my head heavy and spinning.

Why didnt you tell me when you had a fever? No surprise you didnt answer me last night.

In my haze, I felt a hand holding the back of my neck, pulling me into his chest.

My forehead leaned against the mans shoulder, and the warmth of his body made me blank for a short moment.

Why was Adrian always like this, so divided?

When we didnt see each other, he acted very harshly and pushed me in every possible way, but when we did see each other, he became softer than anyone, like his eyes held only me.

It made me think that if I gave in, ready to be a proper Mrs. Wilkinson who didnt manage him, we could keep a close love and marriage.

A lot of people around us had this type of marriage, and even friends told me to ignore it.

But I couldnt ever accept that, so I decided to leave.

A soft sound came from the crib.

Adrian stood up and lifted the baby, his tone very soft.

Daddys here. Did baby get upset because daddy didnt come home yesterday?

He gently pressed his forehead to the babys small face, slowly moving and rocking around the room.

Watching this, my heart felt a little warm, and my face eased for a second.

At least Adrian still treated the baby well.

Noticing my face relax, Adrian caught my finger and lightly moved it.

Sorry, wife, its my mistake for not coming back yesterday. I didnt even know you were ill.

Ill bring you to the hospital for a full checkup, alright?

My mind felt heavy, and I didnt refuse to go to the hospital.

Along the way, I stayed very quiet.

Before, in times like this, when we were alone, I would keep complaining.

Complaining about Adrian coming back late, complaining about small things in daily life, and complaining about things he didnt do well.

But now I didnt want to keep pushing myself forward to act like a housekeeper.

Adrian drove the car, glancing at me a few times through the rearview mirror.

He seemed a little not used to it.

He clicked his tongue.

Wife, did you check the message I sent last night?

I shut my eyes to rest. Hmm.

Is it because you have a fever and feel unwell? If it was before, youd have kept calling my phone last night.

Adrians tone sounded relaxed with a bit of testing.

Before, when I was only a bit close to my secretary, your calls kept coming one after another, making me answer, so what, your attitude changed?

Isnt this what you always wanted?

I spoke with a mocking tone.

A good wife who doesnt cause problems, doesnt stay loud, and doesnt try to run your life.

Adrian paused for a short time, not expecting Id reply that way.

After a few moments, he gave a quick smile, leaned closer, and brushed my hair, like he was petting a calm animal.

Okay, wife, you finally got it. I told you before, those girls outside are only for fun.

But you arent the same to me.

His voice sounded quite serious.

Youre my wife, youre my home, home is where you are, Ill come back to you in the end.

Only for fun.

Those few words dropped softly.

But like small grains, they quietly slid into my throat, making even my breathing feel hard.

I thought back to that day five years earlier when Adrian told me his feelings.

He went down on one knee, his voice so serious it almost felt heavy, saying wed stay together and grow old side by side, one life, one person.

Maybe promises only matter at the moment theyre said.

In just five years, everything had already changed so much that it couldnt be recognized anymore.

Right then, Adrians phone rang.

He looked at the screen, his eyes lowered a bit, but he still picked up the call.

On the other side came a womans voice, sounding like she was crying.

Brother, my ankle got hurt, it hurts a lot can you come

Adrian cut her off with impatience.

Didnt I already tell you? Dont call me when nothings wrong, I need to stay with my wife.

If your ankle is hurt, go to the hospital. Why call me? If it happens again, dont reach out to me!

He ended the call right away.

When he turned to me, there was still a slight look of wanting praise.

Like he was saying, look, he didnt treat those women outside as kindly as he treated me.

I let out a slow breath, pressing my teeth into the soft part inside my lip.

Adrian, even you didnt notice that before; you never gave those women your personal number.

At the hospital, he stayed busy helping me sign up.

But after I completed the checkup, he was gone.

A text showed up on my phone.

[Something came up, so you handle the IV yourself first.]

[In three days, its your birthday, Ill surely come back to stay with you, the babys full month banquet Ill arrange together.]

I read those lines, and I didnt feel shocked at all.

I set up the IV by myself, then noticed Amiras post on Instagram.

The image showed her view, with her foot resting on Adrians shoulder, and the man looked gentle and helpless, like he was watching a playful cat.

Her text said, [Whenever it is, if I need him, he always comes to me right away.]

Warm tears dropped quietly; the ache in my hand made me react, and I slowly came back to awareness.

Then I realized the IV was done, and blood was flowing back.

The nurse quickly came over to remove the needle and said with an apologetic tone, Sorry, miss, does it hurt very much?

I answered in a low voice, After the pain passes, it will be okay.

After I left the hospital, I went straight to the main office of the Pearson family business, now handled by the Wilkinson family.

Since my parents died, the Pearson family had kept its business barely going.

The size wasnt like before, but a few key parts were still kept.

I stayed in the meeting room, laying out every document one by one.

All the help the Wilkinson family gave over the years, I listed each part clearly, getting ready to give everything back.

And the assets of the Pearson family, I would take them back fully.

Not just for me, but also for my child.

Even if leaving the Wilkinson family, she still must grow up well and properly.

After the secretary completed signing the final document, she asked quietly, President Pearson, either the film and television department or the advertising department must give up to settle this, which one do you plan to keep?

I didnt reply right away, but chose to go see the recording studio first.

That place was the main center of the film and television department, and it was also the place I knew best.

My dream before was to become a host.

But after I married into the Wilkinson family, their rule said Mrs. Wilkinson couldnt appear in public.

It was Adrian who told me I could create a recording studio that belonged to me, make podcasts, and show my ability without showing my face.

So during those years, I quietly made podcasts, slowly bringing the film and television department and my show to the front of the industry.

Each wall there, every light, had been arranged by Adrian and me together.

It was also the place where we spent time together and stayed for a long period.

He was my first viewer, first listener, and also my first supporter.

President Pearson, wait a second.

While I was thinking about the past, someone suddenly stopped me.

The recording studio felt cold. Adrian stood in the middle, his face serious and striking.

And across from him, Amira moved in a soft dance.

He looked at her, like he was looking at his goddess.

After I found out I had arrived, Adrian had someone send me a message, saying he wanted to use the recording studio for a while.

President Wilkinson said dont get upset, he said hes shooting a show and needs this place.

The warmth in my chest from earlier thoughts quickly turned cold.

Adrian really knew how to pick, taking the recording studio we worked hardest on as a place for his lover.

I pulled back my eyes and faced the secretary.

Keep the film and television department.

If the film and television department stayed with Adrian, sooner or later it would turn into a step for Amira in his hands!

I wouldnt let him ruin this place for another woman.

Over the next two days, I almost didnt pay any attention to Adrian anymore.

The baby couldnt be left alone, so I looked after her while dealing with papers.

But Adrian was still all over the place.

The trending searches were full of him and Amira.

The heat of the dating show kept going up.

The newest part was the last part where they shared feelings on the show.

Adrian reserved a whole sea area, fireworks went up from the water, one after another, lasting three full hours.

They kissed under the fireworks, and people online said it looked like the main couple in a story.

People outside were guessing if Amira would be the next Mrs. Wilkinson; people around were guessing how many days Id last before I lost control.

But no one knew the spot of Mrs. Wilkinson. I didnt want it anymore for a long time.

On my birthday, I dressed myself up with care.

At todays banquet, besides marking my birthday, I also wanted to reach new partners and work with the Pearson family, so I didnt focus on enjoyment.

During the first part of the banquet, Adrian didnt show up, and I wasnt surprised at all.

In the middle, I passed the baby to the nanny and turned to walk to the restroom.

But when I returned, I saw that Amira and Adrian had come to the banquet.

And in Amiras arms was my baby!

She bent her head and played with the baby, her long nails pressing the babys face again and again.

She held the baby not firmly, like she was playing with a fun toy.

My head rang.

Without thinking, I ran over.

Move back, who let you touch her!

I pulled the baby back in one move.

The baby got hurt by Amiras nails and started crying right away.

On her arm, there was a light blood line left by the nails!

I held back my anger and let the nanny take the baby to calm her.

After the baby went away, my chest moved up and down fast, staring at Adrian, my voice almost yelling,

Adrian, didnt I tell you, those dirty things outside, dont bring them in front of the baby!

Amira was pulled by me and lost her balance, then fell straight to the floor.

Sister-in-law, I only felt the baby was lovely and wanted to carry her, why shove me?

Today is your birthday, I came just to celebrate with you

Adrians face turned dark. He quickly walked over and helped her stand. Does it hurt?

After making sure she was alright, he lifted his head and looked at me.

Adrians eyes looked very heavy and scary.

Eloise, Amira only wanted to get near the baby. Did you have to hurt her?

When he said that, he didnt even glance at the baby.

He only moved to protect Amira.

I thought these past two days you really started to act better, didnt expect youre still like this.

Today is your birthday. Amira prepared a dance for you, wanting to make you happy.

But in the end, you wont even let her stay here.

When did you turn so selfish?

I felt very mad, so I laughed loudly instead.

Adrian, go outside and check how many performers want to join my birthday party, your partner dancing for me, should I thank you for that?

You say that I only think about myself.

So, you're bringing your mistress to my birthday, isn't it selfish? You think I should kindly welcome that woman back and take care of her?!

Adrian clearly did not think I would talk to him like this in front of others; his expression quickly turned cold.

Eloise, you really are unbelievable. Now you even speak against me in front of everyone! You are nowhere near as reasonable as Amira!

He could not win the argument, angrily placed his arm around Amiras shoulder, and left.

I breathed in deeply, holding back the worry of wanting to see the child, saying sorry, making small talk, and sending the guests away one by one.

After everyone had fully left, the smile on my face slowly faded away.

I quickly moved toward the baby's room, hoping to get some comfort from the child.

But the nursery had no one inside!

And the helper who was about to enter was also not holding the baby.

A bad feeling rose up at once.

Where is my child?

I asked the nanny with teary eyes. I told you to stay with her, where did she go?!

The nannys face turned white right away, and she started to speak with breaks.

M-Maam, the baby

It was, sir, he said you cannot care for a child well, your feelings are not calm, it will affect the childs nature

For these days the baby will stay with him, and you should think about yourself.

I stood still, and even breathing felt hard.

After I came back to my senses, I quickly tried to reach Adrians staff, his assistant, but every message got no reply.

Adrian stayed away from me on purpose. For now, I had no way to know where he went.

Just as I was about to break down, my phone showed that last extra live stream of the dating show.

When I noticed what the live video showed, anger rose in my eyes at once.

On screen, Adrian told everyone the baby was given by the show team so they could practice caring for a child.

I watched Amira, next to him, give the baby a small cookie. The baby was just one month old, and even drinking was hard, but it was pushed into her mouth, and she cried loudly in pain.

The milk formula I asked someone to make was spread all over the floor, then Amira picked it up carelessly and kept mixing it.

She gave it to the baby, but it was too hot, and the baby refused to drink. She even gave the babys own bottle to a dog!

Amira also placed the baby on the floor, letting her stay with a big dog. The floor was cold and dirty, and her clothes quickly became messy!

Adrian, on screen, still showed a pleased smile. See how joyful the baby is.

Joyful?

I looked at the screen, my eyes felt hot.

How can she be happy?

Her face clearly showed fear!

The last small hope in my heart that Adrian might be a good dad fully broke.

That was the baby I kept safe with care, scared she might get hit or hurt.

The precious child I slowly raised with love!

But in Adrians view, she was only a thing he could easily bring to the show to flirt with!

I almost lost control and ran straight to the hotel where the show group stayed.

The front desk saw me, their expression changed a little, and the assistant quickly ran after me to stop me.

Mrs. Wilkinson, now is really not the right time

I shoved the person aside and rushed straight to the room door.

I kicked the door open.

What was inside came into sight right away.

The air felt strange, clothes were thrown around, and everything looked messy.

Adrians clothes were not neat, and his face showed anger from being interrupted. Amira stayed in his arms, her face red, her look uneasy.

My sight went dark for a second, but I made myself stay standing.

My voice shook as I asked, Adrian!

Where is my baby? Where did you take my baby?!

Amira looked scared, quickly hiding in Adrians arms.

Sister-in-law, please dont get mad. I thought brother brought the baby to the show to build a bond with the baby, did he not tell you?

If I knew before, I would have told him to bring the baby back, ah, that milk formula, was it for the baby to drink? I thought brother bought it for the dog, so I gave it to the dog

My head hurts. Before I could talk, I heard Adrian give a small laugh. Why are you saying all that to her?

He lifted his eyes to face me, his eyes cold with no warmth.

As the babys dad, what is wrong with me building a bond with the baby?

No need to say sorry to her, the milk formula had no words saying it is for the baby, what is wrong with giving it to the dog? Do not blame yourself, you did nothing bad.

What was wrong with giving it to the dog?

What was wrong?!

My voice almost came out with force from my throat.

Adrian, do you know that milk formula was made just

Stop, how long will you keep making trouble? Look at you now, like a loud woman from the street.

Do you think we are not ashamed enough already?

Adrian cut me off; his eyes showed a bit of harshness, he touched Amiras cheek, and slowly spoke.

And is this not because of you? Yesterday, you thought Amira could not care for the baby and pushed her aside, making her look bad in public.

So I let the baby stay with Amira more so she can learn how to care for a baby, what is wrong with that?

I caused this?

Just because I made his mistress feel ashamed, he treats the baby like this?

I couldnt stop myself from stumbling.

My chest seemed like a heavy rock pushed on it, going down bit by bit.

Id always believed that when it came to the kid, Adrian had some limit.

No matter how messy he acted, how careless, he wouldnt treat the kid like a joke.

But then I understood Id been too innocent.

If even he could, just because I upset Amira, take the kid and hand her off to someone like a plaything.

Then later on, would things turn even worse?

My heart slowly turned cold, and fear wrapped around my thoughts.

Adrian held the sleeping kid and walked out.

The baby is my daughter, with me here, would I treat her badly?

Its only milk powder, its not like I cant pay for it, if the dog drank it, then just get more, and our baby isnt that fragile, right?

He played with the baby, then lightly touched my head.

Okay.

Adrians voice sounded relaxed.

The payment for taking the baby wont be small for you.

I pulled away from his hand, held the child tight with shaking arms, like Id gotten something precious back, and I couldnt stop my tears in the end.

I just felt that the man before me was very strange, very strange.

The Adrian from earlier kept himself neat; wed grown up together, loved each other first, both simple and pure.

This last year, Adrian tried many times to play around, but all were stopped by me in a strict way.

About the condom, before, I tried to act like I didnt notice.

Even though Id already made up my mind to divorce, I still couldnt accept that Adrian

had hurt both my body and feelings.

But now, I saw the messy black stockings in the room, saw the birth control pills near the bed.

I couldnt keep denying that Adrian had already turned unclean; he wasnt the same Adrian from before.

My stomach turned, and I just felt very sick.

I didnt want to lose control, so I turned around and walked away.

After I came back, I slowly moved my and the childs things to the home Id bought overseas.

Adrian started giving me money for my compliance, sending it over; the sums were very big.

Different presents also started being delivered to the house.

Like this could cover up his guilt for cheating.

I took everything and then sold it for money.

That was what he was meant to give from the start; the more he sent, the better.

I didnt fight, didnt cause issues, didnt go to Adrian anymore, didnt care about him anymore.

He instead started acting like a good dad.

Sometimes when he returned home, he wanted to carry the child.

But I always found ways to pull the child away, not letting him come near.

Until now, Adrian had never asked what the childs name was. What kind of good dad was he pretending to be?

I bent my head to look at the child in my arms, gently asked her, Baby, do you hate mommy?

The child, of course, didnt understand, but smiled at me.

At that time, my nose felt sore, and I hugged her more tightly.

At the same moment, parts of the dating show live stream started spreading fast.

Someone saved the part where Amira gave the baby a cookie.

Someone enlarged the clip of the milk powder dropping to the floor and being picked up again.

There were also people who kept cutting the part where the baby was put on the floor to play with the dog.

The comments section burst.

This is too much, right? Such a tiny baby can eat this?

The milk powder dropped on the floor and was picked up again?

That woman even gave the milk powder to a dog?

Soon, someone found out that Adrian was married.

Right after that, the clip from five years earlier was also found.

A helicopter stayed in the sky.

Rose petals dropped from above.

This was the way Adrian chased Mrs. Wilkinson before.

Even more over the top than now.

The comments area was full of angry voices.

So this is cheating, wow, even joining a dating show to cheat, you rich people, I cant get it?

What kind of show is this?

I read those comments, and my fingers stopped for a moment.

If it had been before, I wouldve at once asked people to take down the trending topic and hold down the public talk.

At any price, keep the Wilkinson familys name and shares safe.

But now I didnt do anything.

There was one comment, pushed very high.

Love can change. Childhood lovers, how many can beat someone who comes later?

I looked at that line for a long time.

Yes.

If back then, I hadnt married Adrian so soon.

Now he would also be drawn to the so-called new person, right? Maybe this had been meant from the start.

There were three days left until the divorce.

That day was Thanksgiving; this year, the Thanksgiving show in Daly City was handled by our company.

This had been a plan that Adrian and I had done together for two years.

Wed once put in a lot of work for it; every show list, every act was chosen after a long time of thinking.

And the most important thing was that day I would present my podcast show in front of everyone.

That would be my first time showing up before the crowd; Id been waiting for that day very much.

But just one hour before, I went up on stage at the Thanksgiving show.

I got a message that my show had been taken off by force.

At the same time, the screen in the broadcast room showed the scene, in the middle of the large stage, where Amira held Adrians hand and walked onto the stage.

I stood there, fixed in place, watching Amira spin around and around.

But in my heart, it felt like a fire was slowly burning bit by bit.

This spot should have been my show.

It was work I had spent so much time fixing, a setup I built piece by piece, the name that the Pearson family had finally kept steady.

But now, it was simply taken over by Adrian.

So the next steps would not fall apart, I could not even stop it right there, and I could not go up after Amira finished her act.

I could only stay here, watching everything happen with no control.

Watching all the effort turn into nothing.

A feeling of no control spread across my whole body. I just hated that I did not end things with Adrian earlier, even sooner.

After one track finished, the applause was light.

Before I could take a breath, Adrian took the mic and said, Using this chance, I will share one thing: Amira will later join our Wilkinson Group and will become someone we plan to train.

At that time, I did not even feel shocked anymore.

Adrian would even let go of tens of millions in the market just to clear an easy path for his lover.

My phone shook hard in my hand.

Calls from Daly City leaders came one after another.

I shut my eyes with no strength, turned around, and walked fast to the backstage.

In the backstage area, Adrian stood there, softly calming Amira, who felt nervous after the show.

Amira saw me first, moved forward half a step, standing in front of Adrian, her voice low and shaking.

Sister-in-law, do not feel angry, and do not blame brother Adrian. I asked him, I wanted this chance to go on stage, if you want to blame, blame me.

Each line, she said, meant that this show was what she wanted, and Adrian had given it to her.

And I was only that spare choice that got pushed aside.

The small bit of control I was still holding in my heart suddenly broke apart.

Without any thought, I lifted my hand.

A clear sound, Amiras whole body was hit and turned to one side.

Eloise, are you out of your mind?!

Adrians face quickly became very dark, pulling her into his arms.

His voice dropped low, but you could hear clear anger.

You crazy woman, whyre you hitting someone!

I showed no feeling and tossed the phone right in front of him.

On the screen were missed calls from leaders one after another.

My tone was cold.

See it yourself. The leaders are already blaming us.

Adrian.

Today, do you dare take the result of everything youve done?

Adrian looked at the display, his look showing a short moment of unease.

He didnt think the leaders would get so angry just for swapping a show.

But soon, that feeling was pushed away by impatience.

Do we need to care?

His tone sounded easy, even holding a bit of annoyance.

Its only switching a show, at most we pay some fine.

But why are you hitting someone? All choices today were made by me; if you want to blame, blame me.

Amiras a performer, what if you mess up her face? Arent you ruining her future?!

Adrian looked at me, proudly said, And also

Your show, how good can it be?

Next to Amiras dance, its only average.

At that second, I heard this, and I felt like my whole self dropped into water.

The one who once listened closely as I spoke about ideas, helped me fix drafts line by line, praised my clear thoughts and smooth speech, at that second, fully faded away.

I suddenly didnt want to ask anymore, calm to the limit.

Alright.

Then you go tell the leaders yourself, go tell the partners.

As for who Adrian wants to push, he should start an entertainment company by himself.

From now on, he couldnt step into the Pearson familys film and TV department at all!

Even though I wanted to just walk away, the work of the Wilkinson family and the Pearson family was still tied together.

If this issue spreads, it would also ruin the name of the Pearson family.

I could only call the partners one by one.

Adrian and I stayed at the company all night, but neither of us wanted to look for the other.

Late at night, I went to the break room to make coffee, just as I picked up the mug, the door got pushed open from outside.

Amira stood at the doorway.

Her face looked red in a strange way, her hair a bit messy, the lipstick on her lips slightly smeared, as she had just come from something intimate.

She looked toward me and gave a proud smile.

President Pearson, its pretty late, still busy?

I didnt reply.

She didnt need any answer, going on by herself, And now, works all youve got left.

Honestly, I feel a bit sorry for you.

You tried so hard for so many years, only had a daughter, and now youre still not liked by your husband.

She gave a small smile.

If you still have some pride, dont want me to throw you out myself one day, you might as well leave Adrian sooner on your own.

I looked at her pretty face, lifted my hand, and poured the full cup of very hot coffee over her.

Ah!

Amira shouted, stepping back at once.

Coffee ran down through her hair, her carefully kept look fully messed up.

I set the used cup down, my tone cold with no warmth at all.

What are you, that you think you can talk to me?

A mistress should know her place.

Dont make people sick everywhere like garbage.

Amira shook with anger, her eyes red, looking at me with teeth clenched.

Eloise, youll regret this!

I didnt care to look at her again, turned around, and hadnt taken a few steps.

All of a sudden, there was a sound of something heavy dropping behind me.

I quickly turned around.

A cold feeling I couldnt explain rose up from my back.

Amira tumbled down the steps!

My head went empty, I didnt think someone could be this harsh even to herself.

Before I could respond, quick steps already sounded from behind.

Adrian ran over and even shoved me aside hard.

The push was so strong that my whole body slammed into the coffee maker, my waist and stomach hurt badly, and my breath got cut off for a second.

He didnt even look at me.

He ran down the steps right away and lifted Amira into his arms.

Amira!

I held onto the counter, bearing the pain, and still fell.

Down below, Amira lay in his arms, her face pale, tears falling one by one.

And Adrian looked up at me, his eyes full of coldness. Eloise, do you think youve gone mad?!

When did you turn into this?!

So ugly, so mean, just because youre jealous of Amira, you pushed her down the steps?!

He held her tighter in his arms, saying in a harsh voice, Do you know she does ballet?!

If her leg gets hurt, her whole life will be ruined!

What are you even thinking? Go outside and see which wife from any family acts this unreasonably and jealously like you! You dont look like a Mrs. Wilkinson at all!

Each line Adrian said felt like knives stabbing into me.

My chest felt tight, my nose burned.

I asked him back, full of hurt, Then what about you, Adrian?

You say Ive changed, havent you changed too? You doubt me just because of a mistress?

There are cameras in the company, you didnt even check, you just decided it was me who pushed her down.

I laughed, but tears were already falling.

In your mind, am I this kind of person who would hurt others?

Do you think I should get pointed at by a mistress and still keep quiet.

Thats called being kind?

That matches what you think your wife should be?

Adrians face shifted.

He was shaken by my red eyes; his throat moved, as if he wanted to speak.

But before Adrian could say anything, Amira suddenly grabbed his clothes, her voice weak.

Adrian my stomach hurts

Only then did he notice the blood slowly coming out from under Amira.

Adrians face changed at once, and he lifted her up and ran out fast.

When he passed me, he only left one line that felt very cold, If anything happens to Amira, dont blame me if I stop caring about our marriage!

I stayed there for a long while, finally unable to hold myself, sliding down to sit on the floor.

Tears dropped one by one.

It felt like the last small part in my heart also slipped away.

The next day, I sat on the couch at home holding the baby, feeding her milk.

She didnt have much hunger these past two days; her small face had grown thinner, drinking on and off.

Liliana called me, and right when she spoke, Amira is pregnant.

She stopped for two seconds, like it was hard to say, The doctor said, the one in her belly is very likely a boy.

I paused, looking at the child in my arms. Hmm, I get it.

Only then did Lilianas voice carry pain she couldnt hold back, full of anger that came from care.

Adrian, this kid has really lost his mind! He even ignored me, stopping him and insisting on keeping the baby, like hes been controlled!

Dont worry, I wont ignore this, what he did is too much

I softly cut her off, Mom.

Are the divorce steps finished?

The voice on the other side dropped lower, theres still a bit left.

Ive already split the assets for you. Whats yours, not even a little will be missing.

Dont worry.

I smiled. Alright, thanks, mom.

The call ended.

The baby finished drinking milk and slowly fell asleep in my arms, her small face leaning against me, breathing softly.

I lowered my head to look at her, a bit of wetness in my eyes.

But soon, I held it back.

Today was the day to take the baby to the hospital for a check-up.

She had taken bad milk powder and snacks, and for these two days she hadnt felt well, so I couldnt wait any longer.

I held her and went out, told the driver to drive.

The car had just left the area for a short while.

A sharp brake sound came, with a bang, and everything flipped at once.

I almost by instinct held the baby tight, keeping her safe in my arms.

The strong hit threw my whole body out, my forehead slammed into the car glass, and my sight went dark.

Someone pulled open the car door and dragged us out.

When I woke up again, I was inside a strange car.

The baby cried softly in my arms.

Fear rushed up like waves.

I quickly took out my phone, pressing the emergency contact Adrian again and again.

Before, he had told me, If something happens, press this, Ill come right away.

But now, the call went through again and again.

No one picked up.

Adrian, answer the phone, please answer the phone!

Please, save the baby

I begged quietly in my heart.

Hoping Adrian would remember a little of the past.

But on the other side of the call, there was only a cold ringing sound.

In the end, the call got cut off right away.

When I tried again, it wouldnt connect anymore.

At that moment, the last piece of hope in my chest broke.

The car stopped at a deserted park, and the child and I were pulled out.

The kidnapper grabbed my phone and smirked, Still trying to reach President Wilkinson?

You didnt know, did you, Mrs. Wilkinson, all of this was set up by President Wilkinson.

I stared at the kidnapper with shock. He kept talking.

You hurt Miss Walter, made her leg get hurt, and she almost lost the baby.

President Wilkinson said you must learn your lesson and say sorry to her!

The child looked scared and cried in pain.

My chest tightened hard, and I quickly dropped to my knees.

Sir, sir, I beg you, please let the child go. Shes still so young. If anything must happen, do it to me. Dont hurt the child. Shes innocent!

The kidnapper held the stick in his hand and weighed it.

President Wilkinson also told me to break the childs leg.

He said shes the most important to you, so youll remember this.

Hit my leg!

I shouted it out, my voice shaking and breaking.

Hit me! Dont touch the child!

The kidnapper laughed loudly.

Fine, then you take it for her!

Right after that, the stick came down again and again.

The sound of bone snapping was very clear.

The severe pain burst out at once.

I almost couldnt make a sound.

Everything turned white.

I carried the child, unable to even shout, only clenching my teeth as my body shook without control.

Adrian.

You dont deserve to be a father!

I regret marrying you. I regret loving you!

Just as I was about to pass out, police sirens sounded in the distance.

I didnt know where the strength came from, but I lunged forward and knocked the kidnapper down.

The kidnapper lost balance from my hit, his foot slipped, and he fell to the ground.

The police rushed in and held the kidnapper down.

I couldnt think about anything else.

Hospital go to the hospital

Before they pushed me into the operating room, my leg had already gone completely numb.

I held on to my last bit of strength and called a number.

Come to the hospital and take the child.

I didnt dare leave the child outside alone while I went through surgery.

I couldnt let her fall into Adrians hands again!

When I woke up, before I could recover, a hand was already wrapped tight around my neck, pressing my body into the hospital bed.

I couldnt breathe at all.

I struggled without thinking.

By my side, Adrians voice speaks in a low tone, holding back anger.

Eloise, you are truly heartless.

His face was very near mine, his eyes red with visible veins, anger hard to hide.

To deal with Amira, you would even use such horrible ways?

Pay someone to kidnap her?

Do you know, if I had not found out in time, Amira could have almost died!

He says each word slowly, his teeth pressed together.

I look at him blankly and say in a tired voice, Do you have proof? Why do you think it was me?

Adrians face turned even colder. What proof do I need?

Besides you, who else would go after Amira like this?!

He said it right away, without any pause or doubt.

When it came to Amira, Adrian never easily trusted me.

The corner of my lips lifted a little with sarcasm. Your old secretary, or that model you were with before, or maybe even Amira herself.

Eloise!

He cuts me off at once, his face turning red.

You are just being unreasonable! I have never planned to let Amira take your place!

As long as you choose to live peacefully with her

The role of Mrs. Wilkinson is always yours!

Why do you not understand what I mean?!

By the end, Adrian had been nearly yelling.

It felt like from start to finish, every issue between us had been blamed on me.

It felt as if I gave way, then everything could turn fine.

I looked at him.

I faintly saw that once lively and warm young boy leaving me behind.

Childhood sweetheart had only been a fated ending.

Adrian had still been blaming. Now, Amira is still pregnant; the baby has done nothing wrong.

You are also a mother, how can you be this cruel? You even pay people to take her?!

What if the baby was lost?!

I gave a soft laugh. Adrian, in your view, even an illegitimate child matters more than me, right?

Adrians face had gone stiff.

My voice had been steady. She was only nearly taken.

What about me? My leg was shattered. You not only show no concern, but came in and grabbed my throat, do you only feel satisfied if I am dead?

Adrians expression had clearly shifted.

What are you saying?

He had slowly eased his grip without noticing; his eyes had moved to my wrapped leg, as if he wanted to pull the blanket up and look.

But before his hand could reach it, a faint voice had suddenly sounded from behind.

Adrian.

Amira had been standing by the doorway, her face white, her body shaking.

She had dropped straight to her knees in front of me.

I am sorry, everything is because of me

Sister-in-law, if you want to be angry, be angry at me, you can strike me or yell at me

But can you allow me to deliver this child?

The doctor says my uterine wall is very thin; if I cannot keep it this time, I may never become pregnant again

As she had spoken, her body had kept shaking, looking very low and pleading, After the child is born, you can end me or harm me, I accept it.

I have never wanted to take what belongs to you, truly

She had kept hitting her head toward me like she had lost control.

Adrian had rushed over almost at once, gently helping her up.

What are you doing?!

His voice had softened, showing clear worry. Why are you bowing your head to her?

Adrian had held her, as if he were holding something that could break easily.

When he had looked at me again, his eyes had been as if he was seeing a stranger. Amira is already in this state; you still cannot accept her?

He had looked at my leg with disappointment. I almost felt pity for you; I almost believed your act of hurting yourself.

Believe whatever you wish.

My voice had been very soft. I will not be concerned about you anymore from now on.

Adrian, you and Amira can do anything you want.

Adrian had not expected I would speak like that.

He had stared at me, as if checking whether I was just acting out.

But I had shown no feeling, no anger, and even less sadness.

His eyes had turned messy for a second.

His heart had felt like something was pulling it hard; he had kept feeling that if he closed his eyes, I would be gone.

He had wanted to say something, but before he could speak, Amira, in his arms, had lost consciousness.

Adrian had no longer paid attention to me; he had lifted her and hurried out.

When he had reached the doorway, he froze.

With his back facing me, his tone had softened a bit, It is better if you understand it yourself.

Mrs. Wilkinson

There is always only you.

At that moment, the phone had shaken.

It had been a message sent by Liliana.

[The divorce is already finished, and the asset split is also settled.]

[Your belongings, I have asked people to move them to your new home.]

Only then had I breathed out, slowly pulling the IV needle from the back of my hand.

I had called a number.

Let the plane land on the hospital rooftop.

The person on the other side had quickly said yes.

I had stood up, and pain had torn through my leg.

But I had not stopped.

Step after step, I had walked outside.

Inside the plane, the private doctor had just given the baby an injection.

She had cried until her small face had turned red.

But the moment she saw me, the tears had suddenly stopped.

She had reached out her arms, moving into my embrace.

I had softly pressed a kiss on her forehead.

Even without a father, your mother still lets you grow up as the happiest baby.

My tone had been very firm.

I also become myself.

No longer another persons wife, another persons Mrs.

Only Eloise Pearson.