By the Time You Regretted Me, I had stopped loving you

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I had only gone to Celine, my fiances step-sister to collect a debt. That was it. Just money she owed.

But the next day, Argus, my fiance threw a thick ledger straight at me. It hit my chest and dropped to the floor like it weighed a thousand pounds.

Pick it up, he said, voice cold and sharp, like I was nothing more than something stuck under his shoe. Go on. Read it carefully. Every single page.

My hands shook as I bent down. Something felt wrong. Terribly wrong.

I opened it and my vision blurred for a second.

It was everything.

Every single thing he had ever spent on me in five years.

A custom-made gown worth fifty thousand dollars. A limited-edition supercar he said was just a gift. Diamond sets, private island vacations, luxury suites, chartered yachts. Even the smallest things were there a gourmet dessert, late-night wine, flowers I thought meant something.

All written down.

Every cent counted.

Even the hotel rooms. Even the clothes he bought for me.

My fingers tightened around the pages. My chest felt tight. Was this what I meant to him?

Ill be fair, Argus said, leaning back like this bored him, slowly swirling the wine in his glass. We split the hotel costs. Im not unreasonable.

Fair?

My throat felt dry.

After deducting the fifty thousand Celine owes you, he continued, finally looking at me, eyes sharp and cold, you still owe me 52 million. One month. Transfer it.

Fifty-two million.

My lips parted but no sound came out at first. Argus I never asked you for those things. You gave them to me, I didnt

I didnt what? he cut in softly, but it felt worse than shouting. Didnt enjoy them? Didnt accept them?

Thats not what I mean, I just I swallowed. Why couldnt I explain it? I thought it wasnt like this.

Then what was it like? His gaze locked on mine, pressing, suffocating. Say it properly, Dahlia. Or do you not even know what you were thinking back then?

I froze.

What was I thinking?

That he loved me?

That those things werent debts waiting to be collected?

A laugh broke the silence.

Dahlia sorry, Argus really kept receipts, someone said, amused. Do you even know how much fifty million is?

Another mans voice joined in, sharper. She doesnt. She was just warming his bed and playing house. Thought she got lucky.

Laughter spread across the room.

My ears rang.

Honestly, another man smirked, eyeing me up and down, fifty-two million isnt that much. Dahlia, if you serve me tonight and dont disappoint, I might just give you sixty million. Easy, right?

More laughter.

I felt like I was shrinking, like the air was being sucked out of my lungs.

Argus didnt stop them.

He didnt even look annoyed.

Thats none of my concern, he said lightly. How she gets the money has nothing to do with me.

Something inside my chest cracked.

Argus My voice came out weak, barely there. I didnt humiliate Celine. She lied to you. I wouldnt do that. Why would I

Why wouldnt you? he replied, tilting his head slightly, almost curious. You really want to argue about that?

My body went cold.

The memories came back, sharp and cruel. After Celine came back from overseas... I was late cooking for her. Just late. The food wasnt even bad. And Argus? He locked me outside. Three days. No food. No water. I remember sitting on the cold floor, my hands shaking, wondering if I was going to pass out.

The second time, I accidentally broke her tablet. It slipped from my hands. That was it. Argus had someone grab me, and the next thing I knew, my arm was in a cast and I couldnt even lift it without crying.

The third time, I wasnt even doing anything wrong. I was just sad. And Celine made me dress up, stand in front of her friends, perform like I was some kind of joke. I almost collapsed that night, but no one stopped her.

Now I only wanted the fifty thousand Celine begged me for my father's treatment. But she cried, said she had no one else, and promised she would pay me back. And this this was what I got.

Dragged here.

Humiliated.

Reduced to nothing.

Dahlia, Argus said, his voice pulling me back like a chain around my neck. If you cant pay on time, Ill take you to court. And trust me, you wont survive that.

My legs felt weak.

When I thought about my father lying in that hospital bed, machines breathing for him and bills piling up like they were waiting to bury me too, I forced a smile. It felt wrong on my face, like it didnt belong to me anymore.

I turned to the man sitting beside Argus, If I if I serve you well tonight, will you really give me fifty-two million?

For a second, everything went quiet. Then the man lit up like he had just won something.

Of course I will, he said quickly, leaning forward, eyes dragging over me in a way that made my skin crawl. Fifty-two million isnt a problem. But you have to earn it, right?

He glanced at Argus.

Argus didnt stop him. He just sat there, swirling his drink, watching me like I was nothing.

That was all the permission the man needed.

Waiter, he called out, snapping his fingers. Bring thirty glasses. The strongest youve got.

My stomach dropped. Thirty?

The bottles came quickly, lined up in front of me like a punishment I couldnt escape.

Dahlia, if you finish all of these tonight, every drop, Ill transfer the fifty-two million immediately. No tricks. Youve got my word.

My fingers curled. Could I even survive that? Did it matter?

I picked up the first glass without thinking anymore.

The moment the liquid hit my throat, it burned. No, it tore through me, like it was ripping me open from the inside. My stomach twisted violently and I almost choked, my eyes stinging as tears threatened to fall.

I forced it down.

Dont stop. You cant stop.

I could hear them laughing. Feel their eyes on me. Disgust. Amusement. Curiosity. Especially his.

But I didnt look at Argus. I couldnt.

I just kept drinking.

Glass after glasses.

My hands shook, my vision blurred, and cold sweat soaked through my back. At some point, I couldnt even taste it anymore. It was just pain, raw and endless.

Why am I still doing this?

Because I had no choice. Because I needed the money. Because without it, my father

No.

I finished the last glass and slammed it down on the table. The room spun, my head felt like it was about to split open.

I forced myself to stand straight, even if my knees almost gave out. I reached out my hand toward the man.

M-money, I said, my voice hoarse. Y-you said youd give it to me.

The man didnt answer right away. He turned to Argus instead, smirking.

Argus, what do you think? Should I pay her? She did pretty well.

Argus looked at me, Give it to her. Its just fifty-two million. Think of it as charity.

Charity.

The word hit harder than anything else tonight.

The man laughed and pulled out a bank card, tossing it to the floor at my feet.

Here. Dont say Im not generous.

I bent down slowly, my fingers trembling as I picked it up. I didnt say thank you.

I just turned and walked out as fast as I could, almost running.

My father.

With this money, his surgery could finally go through.

He would live.

He had to.

By the time I got to the hospital and paid the remaining fees, my hands were still shaking. I rushed to the doctor, my voice uneven.

The payment is done. Please you can proceed with the treatment now, right? Please save him.

The doctor looked at me, and something in his eyes made my chest tighten.

Im sorry, Miss Dahlia. Mr. Argus gave strict orders to stop all treatment for your father. We cant go against that.

For a second, I didnt understand.

What? My ears rang. No that doesnt make sense, I said quickly, shaking my head. I just paid. You saw it. The money is there. Why would you stop now? He needs the surgery, hell die without it, you cant just

Im sorry. Theres nothing we can do.

The world tilted. I stumbled back, my heart racing so fast it hurt.

Argus.

I fumbled for my phone and dialed his number, my fingers slipping.

He picked up.

Youre calling me already? he said, amused. What is it, Dahlia? Miss me that much?

Argus! My voice broke. Please, please dont do this. My father needs treatment. I already paid, I did everything you wanted, I drank everything, I

So? he cut in, almost bored. He had surgery last week, didnt he? Skipping one wont kill him. Or are you saying your father is that weak?

My knees hit the floor.

Please, I whispered. Im begging you. Dont punish him for this. If youre angry, take it out on me. Ill do anything, just dont

Of course its punishment, he said, his voice turning colder. This is for hurting and humiliating Celine. Did you really think you could walk away after making her upset?

Everything went silent.

The call ended.

And then

Beep.

Beeeeeeep

I froze. Slowly, I turned my head. The line on the monitor it wasnt moving anymore. Just straight.

No!

My phone slipped from my hand and hit the floor. I rushed to the bed, grabbing my fathers hand. It was cold. Too cold.

No, no, no Dad! My voice shook. Wake up. Please wake up. Im here now. I got the money, everythings okay now, youre going to be fine, so please

He didnt move.

Dad My grip tightened, my whole body trembling. Dad!!! My scream tore through the room. But no one answered.

I didnt know how long Id stayed there. Hours, maybe longer. By the time sunlight crept into the room, I was still on my knees, my eyes dry and empty.

He was gone. The doctor approached quietly and handed me a letter.

Miss Dahlia this is something your father left for you. Please take care.

My hands shook as I opened it.

[Dahlia, my dauhter. Please run... Dont let Argus ruin your life.]

A broken laugh escaped me, and then I couldnt stop crying. Even at the end He told me to leave.

To live.

After arranging his funeral, after everything was done, after there was nothing left tying me here

I stared at my phone for a long time.

Then I dialed the number.

Professor Blackwood, I said when the call connected, my voice quiet but steady. Ive made my decision.

A pause.

I want to join the research project.

I closed my eyes. Argus took everything from me. But this time, I was the one walking away.

Professor Blackwoods voice shook the moment he heard mine. Dahlia, is that really you? Are you serious about this? Did you settle your fathers situation? And what about the man you love?

I closed my eyes for a second before answering, my voice quiet. My fathers gone, and Im not going to love him anymore. Not now. Not ever.

There was silence, just two seconds, but it felt heavy. Then his tone softened. Dahlia I dont know what happened to you these past five years, but the most painful time is also when you grow the fastest. Your life isnt over. Its just starting.

Just starting. I let out a breath. Was that even true? After everything could I still start over? Still, I said, Yeah. I understand.

Maybe I really did like Argus before. He was handsome, and sometimes he treated me gently, and he spent money without hesitation, paid for my fathers treatment, and gave me things I never even dreamed of. So what was I unhappy about? I used to ask myself that.

Until Celine came back.

I still remembered that night. Argus had never drunk alcohol before, not once, but that night he drank like he lost control, and then he said it, clear and raw. Celine I missed you so much I went crazy. If only you're not my step sister, things wouldve been different.

I stood there, frozen.

Later, I picked up a photo from the floor. She was beautiful, bright, and she looked a little like me. That was when I finally understood. Between her and me, I was never the one he chose. I was just the substitute. The one he could touch, the one he could use, the one he didnt have to hold back with.

From that moment, whatever feelings I had left for him burned away. But I still stayed. Why? Because my father was still in that hospital, because I needed him alive. So I played my role, quiet and obedient, and I endured everything Argus wanted but couldnt do to Celine. I told myself it was temporary. Once my father got better, I would leave and never look back.

But in the end all I got was his body. Cold. Gone.

And then Argus still asked me, Do you even know what you did wrong?

I stared at that message for a long time. Did I? Was it wrong to exist in his life? Without thinking, I opened his social feed. Beach, ocean, sunset, and him smiling freely beside Celine, so relaxed, like nothing ever happened. Like my fathers death meant nothing.

My chest tightened. Everything he had now felt like it was built on top of my fathers life.

I clenched my phone and took a taxi back to the villa. I needed to pack and leave before I broke completely.

The moment I walked in, I saw him sitting on the sofa, his face dark. Where did you go? Why didnt you reply to my messages? Do you think you can just disappear like that?

I didnt answer and walked past him.

He immediately got up and followed me upstairs, then shoved me hard. Dahlia, you made Celine upset, and now youre ignoring me? Who do you think you are, taking your anger out on me?

My back slammed into the wall and something tore, warm blood sliding down, but I didnt react. I just looked at him. So what? I said quietly. What do you want me to do this time?

He paused, clearly not expecting that.

I tilted my head slightly. How should I apologize this time? Break a stone on my forehead in front of your friends? Or break my other arm too? Or maybe drink another thirty glasses until I pass out will that finally make Celine feel better?

For a moment, he just stared at me. Then his expression slowly calmed, like nothing happened. Pack your things. Come back to the old house with me. Grandpa wants to see you.

I didnt move.

He added casually, Ill give you a fifty million. You know what to say and what not to say. Dont embarrass me.

I let out a small laugh. I didnt even know why I was laughing anymore.

The Montgomery family always cared about reputation and rules. I learned that early.

When Arguss grandfather found out his feelings for Celine werent normal, he sent her abroad without even discussing it. Just like that. Gone.

After that, he kept arranging blind dates for Argus, one after another.

And somehow, Argus noticed me.

Not because of who I was.

Just because I looked like her.

That night still felt like a blur I couldnt wash away. My drink tasted strange, my head got heavy, and everything spun. I remembered his hands, his voice, the way I couldnt even push him away properly.

One person needed love.

The other needed money.

So it became this.

Something ugly. Something I could never name out loud.

...

The car stopped, and I snapped back to reality.

The old house stood in front of me, quiet and imposing.

The moment the door opened, Celine ran straight into Arguss arms. Argus, I missed you so much, she said, clinging to him like she belonged there.

His expression changed instantly.

Soft. Gentle.

Like I had never seen before.

He reached out and pinched her nose lightly. Why arent you wearing shoes again? What if you get sick? Do you even take care of yourself?

She laughed, leaning into him. If I get sick, then youll have to stay with me all the time, right?

They kept talking, teasing each other as if nothing else existed.

Like they were the only two people in the world.

I stood there, watching.

What was I, then?

The butler stepped closer and lowered his voice. Sir, the master hasnt been well lately. You should be more careful.

I knew what he meant.

The last time Argus came here, he fought with his grandfather over Celine. It got so bad the old man had to be rushed to the hospital overnight.

Argus frowned, clearly annoyed. Why does Grandpa suddenly want to see Dahlia? What is it this time? More gossip?

Before anyone could answer, a voice came from upstairs.

Is there something Im not allowed to hear?

I looked up.

Grandpa slowly walked down, leaning on his cane but still steady.

My chest tightened.

Without thinking, I stepped forward to support him. Careful, Grandpa, I said softly.

He looked at me and nodded, his expression warming just a little.

Out of everyone here he was the only one who ever treated me like family.

But the moment his gaze shifted to Argus and Celine still standing too close, something in his eyes changed.

Anger.

What kind of behavior is this? he snapped. An uncle and his step niece acting like this in front of everyone? Have you lost all sense of shame?

Arguss face turned cold instantly, and he let go of Celines hand, though not willingly.

Why did you call us back? he asked flatly. What do you want with me and Dahlia?

Grandpa let out a cold breath. Of course its about your marriage.

My heart skipped.

Youve been together for five years, he continued, his voice firm. Its time to make it official.

I froze.

Marriage?

With everything arranged, he went on, tapping his cane against the floor, one month from now, you and Dahlia will register your marriage and hold the wedding. No more delays.

The room went silent. Celines face turned pale instantly, like all the color drained out of her.

I couldnt even process what I was hearing.

Marriage? After everything? Did he really think this could fix anything?

No, Argus said suddenly, his voice sharp and decisive. I dont agree.

The word hit like a slap. And somehow It still hurts.

Grandpa didnt hold back.

His cane came down hard against Arguss back. You ungrateful child!" he snapped, voice shaking with anger. You were the one who insisted on being with Dahlia back then. You stood in front of your parents graves and promised youd give her a good life. So what is this now?

I lowered my eyes.

You dragged this out year after year, he continued, breathing heavier. Five years. Five whole years. How much longer are you planning to waste her life?

Five years.

I stood there quietly, but memories still came back whether I wanted them or not.

There was a time when things werent like this.

Even someone like Argus, cold and ruthless, used to hesitate because of me. He used to ask what I thought before making decisions.

Once, I told him to stop hurting people. Just casually, just because I didnt like it. And he actually let go of someone who tried to kill him. After that, everyone knew he had a weakness.

Me.

When I had a high fever for days, barely conscious, he went up into the mountains himself just to pray for me. I didnt even know until later.

And when I mentioned I liked white roses he filled the entire villa garden with them.

I thought those things meant something.

But later those same flowers were renamed after Celine.

Just like everything else.

Now, Celines eyes were red, like she was about to cry, and Argus looked at her like the whole world could burn and he wouldnt care.

Im not marrying Dahlia, he said firmly, Shes not the one I want.

Not the one.

The words landed, but I didnt react.

He grabbed Celines hand, tight, almost desperate, his eyes carrying that same reckless madness I had seen before. The person I love is Celine. Its always been her. I wont marry anyone else in this life.

The room felt colder.

I can announce Dahlia as my fiance if thats what you want, he added, but I wont marry her.

Then, without warning, he dropped to his knees.

The sound echoed.

Celine followed immediately, kneeling beside him, her voice trembling but stubborn. Grandpa please. Let us be together. Im begging you.

Grandpa looked like he couldnt breathe for a second, his chest rising and falling too fast.

Get out!" he said finally, his voice shaking with rage. Both of you. Go to the prayer hall and kneel. Dont come out until I say so.

And just like that, in front of everyone, they stood up, still holding hands, and walked away together.

Like nothing else mattered.

Like I didnt exist.

I watched everything without expression.

Was I supposed to cry?

Or laugh?

I didnt even know anymore.

Slowly, I took out a small wooden box from my bag. Inside was a family heirloom an expensive sapphire pendant Grandpa had once given me.

He froze when he saw it. Dahlia what are you doing?

I stepped back and bowed deeply.

Grandpa, thank you, I said softly. For taking care of me these past five years. I wont forget it. But I cant stay by his side anymore.

He frowned, trying to say something, trying to stop me. But I had already decided. I placed the pendant down and turned to leave. No hesitation. No looking back.

As I passed by the prayer room, I heard something. Heavy breathing. Low voices.

My steps slowed for just a second.

Through the small gap in the door I saw them.

Too close. Too intimate. Like the whole world didnt exist outside that room. Like they were proving something to everyone, even to the people who came before them.

My chest tightened. Then I looked away.

What was the point of staying?

I walked out of the Montgomery house without stopping.

I went to the Montgomery Group that morning and resigned as Arguss secretary. Just like that. No hesitation, no second thoughts.

The HR manager, one of the few people who ever treated me kindly, looked at me and sighed. Dahlia, congratulations! You finally got out. Im serious, you escaped something ugly.

I forced a small smile. Yeah I guess I did.

And for the first time in a long while, I actually felt a little lighter. Like something heavy had finally loosened its grip on my chest. I didnt owe them anything anymore. Not the money, not the pain, not the version of myself I became just to survive.

But that feeling didnt last long.

The moment I walked into the villa that evening, a glass shattered right in front of me.

I flinched as sharp pieces scattered across the floor, one of them slicing into my arm. I barely had time to react before Argus stormed over.

His hand came fast.

The slap rang loud, my head snapping to the side as pain exploded across my face.

Dahlia! he shouted, his eyes cold and furious. Grandpa treated you like his own, and this is how you repay him? You pushed him down the stairs? You tried to kill him?!

My ears rang, my cheek burning, but none of that mattered.

What? I breathed, panic rising fast. What are you talking about? How did Grandpa fall? What did the doctor say? Is he okay?

Before Argus could answer, a weak voice came from upstairs.

Miss Connelly, the butler already said it was you, Celine said, her tone trembling, almost pitiful. Are you really going to pretend youre innocent even now?

My body went cold.

Argus, is this really the person you chose? she added softly, like she was hurt. She did something like that and still wont admit it. Shes a coward.

I staggered back as Argus shoved me hard against the wall. Pain shot through my back, but I barely felt it.

Because I saw her. Celine.

For just a second, her eyes met mine. And she smiled. A small, smug smile.

My scalp tingled. I didnt need to think twice. She did it. She pushed Grandpa. And now she was blaming me.

Before I could say anything, my phone started ringing sharply. Argus picked it up, and the butlers voice came through, urgent and panicked. Sir, the master just had a massive hemorrhage! The hospitals blood bank is running low, we might not have enough supply

I couldnt hear the rest.Because Celine spoke again, like she just remembered something important.

Argus, Dahlias blood type is the same as Grandpas, right? she said softly.

My heart dropped.

A cold fear crawled up from my feet, wrapping around my chest.

No

The next second, everything turned chaotic. Hands grabbed me. I struggled, but it didnt matter. I was dragged out, shoved into a car, and taken straight to the hospital.

Before I could even process what was happening, I was tied down in the emergency room.

Hold her still, someone said.

Cold ropes tightened around my wrists. A needle pierced into my vein.

Draw her blood, Arguss voice came, cold and final. As long as it saves Grandpa, I dont care what happens to her. Even if she dies.

My heart clenched.

I turned my head, looking at him through blurry vision. Argus My voice shook. Even if I didnt say anything I wouldve given blood for Grandpa. You didnt have to do this. You didnt have to tie me up like this

My throat tightened.

But I didnt push him, I said, forcing the words out. I swear I didnt. You cant just decide that and treat me like this. You cant take what little dignity I have left.

He let out a cold laugh.

Still lying? his eyes was full of disgust. Grandpa treated you so well, and this is how you repay him? Dahlia, you really have no bottom line.

I didnt

Enough, he cut me off sharply. You better pray he survives. Because if anything happens to him, Ill make you pay for it. In blood.

In blood.

The words echoed in my head.Anger. Pain. Fear. Something broke inside me, quietly and completely.

I could feel it my blood leaving my body, little by little. My fingers turned cold, my vision dimming at the edges.

Was this how it felt? When you had no way out? When no one believed you? A tear slipped down the side of my face.

Dad

Did it hurt like this when you were lying there alone? When you needed help and no one came?

My breathing grew weaker, my thoughts drifting. For a moment I thought I heard his voice.

Soft.

Calling me.

Dad, are you here? Did you come to take me with you?

I had a long dream.

In that dream, Celine hadnt come back yet, and everything was different.

Argus and I were still together like a normal couple. No tension, no fear. He would introduce me to his friends without hesitation, his hand always around my waist like he was proud of me. Like I actually belonged there.

He even took me to the hospital to visit my dad. He would talk to him, sit beside his bed, and try so hard to please him. I still remembered how awkward he looked sometimes, like he didnt know what to say but still tried anyway.

Sir, Ill take care of Dahlia, he said once, almost seriously. You dont have to worry about her.

Back then, I believed him.

I really thought we had a future.

He gave me so many firsts. First time feeling wanted, first time feeling like maybe I wasnt alone. I held onto those moments like they were real.

Then suddenly

Cold water poured over my head.

I gasped, my whole body jerking as freezing liquid soaked through my clothes, biting straight into my skin. The cold hurt so much it almost felt like knives.

My eyes snapped open.

The dream shattered.

Reality came back all at once.

Argus was sitting in front of me, high above like he was looking down at something worthless. His eyes were cold, completely detached.

You should be grateful, he said, his tone flat. Grandpa made it through. If something happened to him, you wouldnt even be alive right now. You wouldve died on that operating table.

My body stiffened.

Before I could even process that, he continued, Until he wakes up, youre staying here. Reflect on what youve done. And be ready anytime if he needs more blood.

Reflect?

My mind went blank.

Then it hit me where I was.

This place

My skin broke out in goosebumps.

I knew this room.

It was where Argus dealt with people who crossed him. I had heard things, whispers, rumors. People didnt come out the same if they came out at all.

There were no windows. No light. The air felt thick, heavy, like it was soaked with something I didnt want to name.

Blood.

I remembered once, I laughed and asked him, What if one day we end up as enemies? Would you throw me in there too?

He looked at me back then, serious for once. No. Thatll never happen. We wont become enemies.

I almost laughed now.

Look at me.

Standing right in the middle of his hell.

All because of a lie that didnt even try to hide its cracks.

Something inside my chest twisted slowly, painfully.

I didnt push Grandpa, I said, forcing the words out one by one. I didnt do it. Im not lying. I didnt do anything wrong, so Im not staying here to reflect on something I didnt do.

I tried to stand.

My body didnt listen.

It felt like it was falling apart, like every part of me was too weak to hold together. My legs trembled and gave out before I could even get up properly.

Argus let out a low scoff.

Dahlia, you really are something, he said, shaking his head slightly. Still pretending. Still acting like the victim. I wont believe a single word from you ever again.

Ever again. He turned and walked out. The door slammed shut.

And then darkness. Complete darkness swallowed everything. I couldnt see anything. I couldnt hear anything except my own breathing.

It came fast. Too fast.

No not again

My chest tightened, panic rising like it was choking me from the inside.

I hated this.

I hated small, closed spaces. Ever since I was young, it felt like the walls would press in, like the air would disappear. Like I was going to suffocate and no one would even know.

I used to tell him that.

I hate the dark, I said once. If I ever live somewhere, I want it bright all the time.

Back then, he actually listened. The villa was always lit up at night. I thought it meant something.

But now

I curled into myself, my fingers digging into my arms as I tried to breathe.

Calm down just breathe I whispered to myself. Youre fine youre fine

But I wasnt. I really wasnt.

Suddenly, the door creaked open and light slipped in. I flinched, squinting as a figure stepped inside.

Celine.

She looked down at me, her lips curling slightly.

Wow, she said, her tone full of contempt. You really do look pathetic.

I didnt answer.

If you didnt look a little like me, she continued, stepping closer, Argus wouldnt even look at you. Not once. Do you really think you ever mattered to him?

My fingers clenched.

But its fine, she said lightly, like she just made up her mind. As long as I ruin that face, you wont be able to fool him anymore.

My heart dropped.

She pulled out a small knife. The blade caught the light. Then she started walking toward me.

Slowly.

Step by step.Her eyes were filled with something ugly. Jealousy. Hate. Something twisted.

Lets see how long you can keep pretending after this, she murmured.

My body reacted before my mind could. I raised my hand to block, my eyes stinging, heart pounding wildly.

This was it. This was really happening.

Dahlia!

A voice suddenly exploded from the doorway.

The next second, something slammed into me hard.

I was thrown to the ground, my forehead hitting the sharp edge of the wall. Pain exploded instantly, my vision going white for a moment. Before I could even react, my body crashed into something behind me.

A skeleton.

I heard it crack under me, bones snapping with a dry, awful sound that made my whole body freeze. But what happened next was worse.

Celine suddenly screamed and drove the knife straight into her own left shoulder. I stared at her, my mind going blank.

Blood spread fast, soaking her clothes as she collapsed to the ground.

Dahlia she cried weakly, her voice trembling like she was the victim. I came to help you! I w-wanted to save you... w-why would you try to kill me

My heart dropped.

No I didnt

I wanted to explain. I needed to explain. But Argus didnt even look at me.

He rushed straight to her, his face full of panic, more panic than I had ever seen. Celine! he shouted, Stay awake. Dont close your eyes. Im taking you to the hospital right now!

He carried her like she was something fragile, something priceless. Like she was everything.

I stayed there on the floor.

No one even glanced at me.

At the hospital, everything became chaotic. Argus called in every top doctor he could find. The hallway was filled with people rushing back and forth.

His white shirt was soaked in blood, his hands trembling, even his arm was scratched and bleeding from forcing open some rusty gate earlier.

He looked broken. I had never seen him like that before.

Not for me.

Get out! he suddenly snapped at the people trying to comfort him, his voice sharp and furious. All of you, just leave me alone!

No one dared to speak after that.

Then he did something I never expected.

He dropped to his knees by the window.

Im begging you, he said hoarsely, his head lowered. If anything happens to Celine, I wont live either. I swear I wont.

I stood there, watching. This was the first time I realized how deep it went.

The operating room doors opened suddenly.

The patient is losing too much blood, a nurse said urgently. The blood bank doesnt have enough supply right now

Ill give mine, Argus cut in immediately, already rolling up his sleeve. Take my blood. We have the same type. Use mine, take as much as you need.

Are you insane? one of his friends grabbed his arm, shocked. Shes just a woman. Even if you love her, its not worth risking your own life like this!

Argus looked at them, his eyes cold and absolute. Celine is the person I love the most. She is my life. Without her, I dont have one.

My chest tightened. So thats what love looked like to him.

The surgery lasted a full day and night.

Celine survived.

Even though Argus lost a lot of blood himself, he looked like he didnt care at all. He cleared out the entire hospital floor, made all the doctors focus on her alone, and stayed by her side every second.

Everyone talked about them. Said how deep their love was. How rare it was.

I just stood there quietly. And somehow, I remembered my dad. How he lay there, alone. How no one fought like this for him. How easy it was for someone to decide whether he lived or died.

Life and death really just depended on who you mattered to.

Funny, right?

Celine stayed in the hospital for half a month ans Argus stayed with her the whole time.

Not even once did he leave her side.

During those two weeks, I packed everything I had and left the villa.

Five years.

Gone just like that.

I rented a small apartment with what little money I had left and went back to working at the bar where I used to do part-time shifts.

Just two more weeks.

I only had to survive two more weeks before I could officially return to the National Research Institute.

Thats what I told myself. But I didnt expect to see him again so soon.

That night, the bar was packed.

Argus had booked the whole place to celebrate Celine being discharged.

Lights dim, music loud, people everywhere.

And right in the center of it all

Him and her.

He stayed close to Celine the whole time, his attention always on her. His friends surrounded her too, laughing, talking, treating her like she was something precious.

I didnt want anything to do with them anymore.

So I texted my boss and asked for leave.

I just wanted to leave quietly.

But

Dahlia.

Her voice stopped me.

I froze.

Celine walked toward me slowly, her eyes still slightly red, like she had been crying. After everything you did to me youre not even going to apologize? she said softly. Youre just going to run away like this?

I looked at her.

Then I answered calmly, I already told you. I didnt do anything. If you keep spreading lies about me, Ill sue you for defamation.

Her expression stiffened.

I turned to leave.

But before I could take more than a few steps, someone blocked my way. It was Arguss bodyguards.

STOP!

My chest tightened.

Then a cold liquid poured over my head. Strong alcohol soaked through my clothes, running down my face, my neck, my entire body.

The music cut off so suddenly it felt like everything snapped. One second it was loud and messy, the next dead silent. Everyone turned to look at me, not shocked, not confused, just watching like they were waiting for something entertaining.

You really think you can walk away after what you did? someone laughed. Dahlia, I didnt know you were this vicious.

First Grandpa, then Celine, another voice added. Whats next, huh? You gonna poison Argus too and keep him locked by your side forever?

I didnt answer. I just looked at him. Argus stood there, his face pale from exhaustion, but his eyes were sharp, cold, like knives. I already said it, I muttered, my voice tired. I didnt hurt Grandpa. And I didnt touch Celine. I even knew how weak it sounded. What proof did I even have? Cameras broken, witnesses bought, and him already decided I was guilty.

I swear, I said, forcing it out, I didnt stab you. If Im lying, then let me die a horrible death. I paused, then looked straight at her. But Celine can you say the same? Can you swear you didnt plan all of this yourself?

Enough! Argus cut me off sharply, stepping in front of her like I was something dirty. Dahlia, even now you still wont admit it? You still think youre innocent? His voice dropped colder. Fine. Dont blame me for what happens next. You brought this on yourself.

Hands grabbed me before I could react. My knees slammed hard onto the floor and pain shot up my legs. I struggled, panic rising fast. Let me go what are you doing but no one listened. Argus took the whip and walked toward me slowly, like this was something he had already decided.

Scared? he asked quietly. Did you ever think about how desperate Grandpa was when he fell? Or how terrified Celine was when you attacked her?

I didnt

The whip struck.

Pain exploded across my back and I couldnt even breathe. My body jerked, a broken sound escaping my throat.

Speak, he said, his voice rising. Admit your mistake.

I dont My voice was shaking. I dont admit it

He laughed, angry now. Still denying it? You think if you say nothing, it didnt happen? Dahlia, youre a sinner. You deserve this.

Another strike. And another. The sound echoed, mixing with quiet laughter around me. It hurt so much I couldnt think, but something inside me refused to bend. I started laughing, I didnt even know why, tears falling at the same time.

I didnt do anything wrong, I said, my voice hoarse but stubborn. Why should I admit to something I didnt do? I looked at him, my chest tight. The biggest mistake I ever made was meeting you. Argus youre the most disgusting person Ive ever known.

His expression darkened instantly.

And you, I turned to Celine, my voice colder, what are you pretending for? Who do you think you are? Without him, youre nothing.

Dahlia, she frowned, her voice trembling, dont talk about him like that. You dont have the right

Shut up, I snapped. You think youre better than me? Youre just as pathetic.

The whip came down harder this time.

Shut up! Argus shouted, completely losing control.

This one is for Grandpa, he said coldly as the whip struck again.

This one is for what you did to Celine.

This one is to remind you who you are. Dont ever think you can stand next to me.

The strikes kept coming, one after another, until I lost count. Every hit felt like it tore through my skin and deeper into something I couldnt protect. My throat filled with a metallic taste and I coughed, blood spilling out. My vision blurred, everything spinning.

So this was it?

Was this how it ended?

My body gave out, and everything went dark.

When I woke up, I was in a hospital room. The TV was on, looping the footage of me being whipped. Every grunt, every groan Id made in pain was turned into entertainment for them.

My back was raw, blood mixed with spilled liquor, and I felt like a lump of mud left in a corner. The bar owner had found me, barely alive, and dragged me out. I couldnt even cry. Nothing came out.

The door opened slowly and Celine walked in. She looked fine, rosy cheeks, like nothing had happened. Those two weeks in the hospital, I said, bitter, you faked it, didnt you?

So what? she said, tossing a plastic bag at me. As long as I look pitiful, Argus will do everything for me. Soon Ill stand by his side like Im supposed to. I caught the bag and froze. Inside was my fathers urn. My hands shook as I opened it. Empty. Completely empty.

What what did you do? Wheres my father? I yelled.

Celine just smiled, enjoying the look on my face. Ashes are useless. Why waste land burying them? Better the wild dogs have them. She shrugged. Oh, and I mightve suggested stopping your fathers treatment at the hospital. Waste of time, really.

My heart stopped. You you let him die?

She waved her hand like it was nothing. Look, I can make Argus do whatever I want. You think youre in the same league as me? Then she lifted her left hand. The ring glinted. My blood ran cold. It was the one Argus had bought at an auction for 500 million six months ago. Everyone had thought they were getting married that day, but Argus had said I wasnt worthy.

Celine laughed. Argus said I deserve everything rare in this world. Including him. Including her. Only Im worthy.

I snapped. I lunged at her and grabbed her by the neck. You killed my father! You deserve to die! My voice shook with rage, pure hatred boiling up. Celines smug smile didnt even falter.

Bang. A vase smashed across my head. Hot blood ran down my face. Argus shoved me away and slapped me hard. You crazy?! he yelled. My chest ached, but I was beyond that. I grabbed a shard from the broken vase, ready to strike Celine in a blind fury.

You killed my father! You deserve to die! I screamed.

Argus grabbed my wrist before I could do anything. Then he noticed the urn in my other hand. His eyes widened, shocked. Whats this? Your father

Celine rolled her eyes. Dont believe him, Argus! I saw his father taking a walk at the hospital two days ago. How could he have died so suddenly?

I looked at Argus, desperate, panicked. Did he believe her? Could he even imagine what Id lost?

Arguss expression froze for a moment, guilt flickering across his eyes. But then it vanished. Cold replaced it. He turned to the nurses. Take her away. Put her in the mental hospital. And give her special care. Make sure she learns her lesson.

I wanted to scream, to fight, to explain, but my body felt empty. My father was gone, Celine had won, and Argus he didnt even hesitate.

On my first day in the mental hospital, I broke a window trying to run. They caught me fast and beat me until I could barely stand.

Next day, they strapped me to an operating table and took one of my kidneys. No anesthesia. I couldnt even scream properly.

By the third day, I begged to see Argus, hoping maybe hed come. Instead, they shoved a pack of vicious dogs at me. Their eyes glinted like they wanted to kill, and they lunged. My face went white. I kicked and thrashed, screamed, but it only made them worse. Their teeth sank into my arms and legs, tearing at my skin.

A voice cut through the chaos. Celines voice, dripping with mockery. Dahlia, are you really so desperate that you wont even spare a stray dog? Whether you live or die depends entirely on your fate.

I felt like the ceiling collapsed on me. I wished it was all a dream. I wished I had never loved Argus. Wed been so close once, sharing everything. The bedroom, the study, even her office those moments of madness now felt like the rope around my neck.

I was about to bite my tongue, to end it, when the door burst open. Argus stormed in with his bodyguards, his eyes blazing. They threw themselves on the dogs, beating them until blood ran everywhere. I couldnt even look. The screams, the smell of blood I wanted to disappear.

Years later, it felt like Arguss warmth hit me again. I shook, vision blacking out, and fainted in his arms.

When I woke again, I was in the villa, lying in bed. A scream came from the living room. I dragged myself up, cracked the door, and froze. Argus sat on the sofa, expressionless, while a pile of bloodied dogs cowered before him. He pointed at the bodyguards, and they cut off the dogs paws, then tortured them to death, methodically.

I stared, heart hammering. Was this real? Everything felt like a nightmare I couldnt wake from. My back screamed as old scars split open. I gasped, leaning on the doorframe.

Argus finally walked over, his steps calm, his face softening just a little. But his words were cruel, sharp. This was an accident by Celine. Youre safe now, so dont blame her, Dahlia.

I blinked, still trembling. Safe? Was I ever really safe around them? My hands shook as I sank to the floor.

Argus tossed a letter at me. Sign this and swear you wont use this against Celine in the future. I can make sure you dont have to pay back the 52 million and Ill make the doctors do their best for your dad.

He looked at me like I was supposed to be grateful, like this was charity. Then he added, Dont overthink it. The one I love will always be Celine, but considering our five years of friendship, I can guarantee you a life without financial worries.

Arrogance oozed from every word. Just like when he humiliated me at the bar. Was this how he saw me? A beggar who would cry tears of joy over a little favor?

Maybe I used to be like that. I would have done anything for my dad. But not anymore. Not now.

I didnt respond. Argus threw the letter down and said, Sign it and bring it to my company. Then he left, walking away like he owned the world.

I laughed, bitter and broken, and tore the letter into pieces. Then I called the police and reported Celine by name.

The clock struck midnight. I looked at the calendar and the grandfather clock in the corner. In ten hours Id be free.

I packed my bag, took a hot shower, and went to the cemetery before leaving. I buried my dads urn, knelt in front of his tombstone, and kowtowed three times. All the years of suppressed emotions spilled out and I sobbed openly.

Dad, Im going to live for real now. If you could see me, I hope youd be proud.

A firefly landed on my finger, its faint light on the photo of him. I imagined his gentle smile and warm eyes. I lay my head against the stone, thinking of all the times hed comforted me. Our Dahlia is grown now. Why are you still crying?

I slept there through the night. When I woke, sunlight was spilling across the ground. My future was waiting.

My phone buzzed. A wedding invitation from Celine. And a message from the Public Security Bureau: My case was being investigated.

I smiled for the first time in years. I deleted the wedding invitation and blocked every way Celine and Argus could contact me.

Half an hour later I was on a plane. Once we broke through the clouds, the tension in my body finally released. I whispered to myself, Never see you again. I made my wish.

Mountains and rivers might separate us, but from now on, I am free.