The Seven-Year Scam: My Daughter is My Husband's Mistress's Child

It took seven years of marriage for me to find out the truth. The girl I carried for ten months, gave birth to, and raised with my own hands for six years was never mine. My husband had used my body as a surrogate for his mistress!

Today, my daughter won an award for an essay called My Most Loved Mom. At the parent meeting, the teacher invited me onstage to read it out loud.

But the mom she wrote about who loves dyeing her hair, loves wearing high heels, has a heart-shaped face, and always smells good? That woman wasnt me.

The other parents started questioning. I practically ran out of the school. Halfway home, a doctor told me: my daughter has zero blood relation to me.

I took hormone shot after hormone shot and choked down bitter meds to carry and give birth to my daughter! How on earth could she not be mine?!

I couldnt fucking believe it, so I went to confront my husband. I caught him holding my daughters hand, taking her into his mistresss filming set.

I heard it myself. How they laughed about tricking me for seven years. How they used me to give birth, raise the kid, pay the bills, waste my time, my body, my money, my life.

It felt like knives tearing through my chest. I couldnt breathe. But even then, I told myself, Fine, my husband is a heartless piece of shit. The kid, though? I raised her for six years. She has to love me, at least a little.

But the next second, I watched as she threw her arms around that woman and smiled so sweetly. She said she liked the pretty mommy. She didnt like me, the ugly, worn-out woman.

That night, my husband slid a document across the table. A divorce agreement dressed up like some bullshit business contract.

He planned to take the mansion, the company, even the gifts I got during our wedding and still expected me to keep slaving away, raising a child for him and his mistress like some obedient idiot!

And just like he wanted, I signed it without asking a single question.

What that asshole didnt know was that I had already changed the terms.

He was going to walk away getting not a damn thing.

My husband doesnt love me. My daughter doesnt want me. Fuck it, I dont want them either.

I picked up the phone and called overseas.

Dad, I said, Im getting divorced. Ill come home. Ill inherit the family estate. And Ill find a man who marries into the family.

Mariahs POV

On the day of my daughters parent-teacher conference, my life completely turned over.

It should have been a happy day. Cruella had won first place in a citywide writing competition with an essay about gratitude toward her mother. As her parent, I was invited to represent the families and go onstage to share my parenting experience.

When I stepped up to the podium, I was still smiling.

But that smile froze the moment I read the first line aloud.

My mom loves dyeing her hair in all kinds of colors. Not long ago, she dyed it brunette again.

Instinctively, I reached up and touched my hair.

Black. I had never dyed it. I tried to calm myself. Maybe children exaggerate.

But then came the second sentence.

My mom loves wearing high heels. She looks especially beautiful when she walks.

I dont own a single pair of high heels. I gave them up completely after getting pregnant.

A sense of unease crept in, but I forced myself to continue.

My mom isnt very tall. She has a heart-shaped face and doe eyes.

My throat tightened. I couldnt go on.

Im 57, broad-shouldered, with a round face.

Nothing in her description matched me.

A parent suddenly spoke up from the audience.

Teacher, may I ask, how authentic is this essay? If it doesnt match reality, is it really appropriate for it to win first place?

In that instant, it felt as though someone had slapped me across the face in public.

I barely held myself together, made an excuse about feeling unwell, and left early.

The moment I sat in my car, I realized my hands were shaking.

A strange, nameless panic rose in my chest.

Before I could sort through my thoughts, a notification popped up on my phone. It was our familys medical checkup report from the hospital.

When my eyes landed on the final line, my entire body went rigid.

[Childs blood type: A]

I checked it again. And again. Three times in total.

My husband, Viggo, and Ione of us is AB, the other B.

No matter how you calculate it, we could never have an A-type child!

My first reaction was that the system must be wrong, so I immediately called the doctor.

After listening, he asked carefully, Has your daughters father always handled her medical checkups?

Yeah, I replied.

There was a brief pause. When the doctor spoke again, his tone was cautious and deliberate.

There is only one explanation.

Either the child was switched at birth or you are not her biological mother.

I heard the last sentence. But I couldnt understand it.

I carried Cruella for ten months. I endured countless shots to protect my pregnancy. I even vomited blood from severe reactions. How could she not be my child?!

I hung up and, almost on instinct, slammed my foot on the gas and drove home.

I needed an explanation from Viggo!

What the fuck is actually going on?!

But as soon as I reached the hallway, I saw him holding Cruellas hand, about to head out.

I heard my daughter say excitedly, Yay! Finally, Daddy, we get to watch Mommy act again! Im so happy!

Viggo reminded her gently, Be good, okay? When we get to the set, dont cause trouble for Mommy.

A set? Acting?

A sharp pain spread through my chest. My first thought was hes cheating.

But what the hell did an affair have to do with Cruella not being my biological child?

She came out of my body!

I needed answers, so I secretly followed them.

The car drove toward a film set on the outskirts of the city.

Viggo led Cruella straight inside.

I called my assistant, and ten minutes later, I walked into the set as well.

Then, I watched with my own eyes as Cruella let go of Viggos hand and ran happily toward a woman.

Mommy!

The woman crouched and scooped her up with practiced ease, her voice soft and familiar.

Why are you running so fast? What if you fall?

The moment I saw her face, I stopped breathing.

Carmilla.

My former college roommate, the one I had fallen out with completely.

Viggo walked over, naturally wrapping an arm around her shoulders, then leaned down and kissed her cheek.

Im late. Did you wait long?

Carmilla smiled and kissed him back, her tone intimate. The last scene just wrapped. Perfect timing. Didnt you say you booked a hotel?

Mm, he replied. Its our tenth anniversary. We cant be careless.

Tenth anniversary?

I stood in the shadows, my entire body turning numb.

Seven years. Thats how long I had been married to him. Nine years. Thats how long Id even known him!

Yet, they didnt hide their affair, speaking without avoiding Cruella or anyone else.

Everyone around them acted like this was old news.

Carmilla pouted playfully. When are you planning to divorce that woman? Im established now. We can finally be together openly. We can make it official.

Viggo replied softly, Not yet. Her fathers money hasnt fully come through.

Carmilla frowned. Seven years of marriage and you still havent squeezed all the value out of her?

He chuckled. Jealous now? Wasnt marrying her your idea? You said she had a strong build, good for having kids. You wanted her to carry the baby so you could focus on your career without worries, right?

Carmilla snorted lightly, her eyes smug. Well, Cruellas already grown. I hate hiding like this. I dont want paparazzi calling me a mistress someday, when I knew you first.

Viggo nodded, his tone soothing. Dont worry. Ive always been careful with her. Shell never get pregnant with my child.

Cruella will be our only child. Ill handle the divorce cleanly and then marry you.

My mind exploded with a loud buzz.

All those years, Viggo had claimed he had weak fertility. He begged me again and again to do IVF. He even knelt and swore he would love me for life. I softened. I agreed.

For an entire year, I endured injections, hormone treatments, and pregnancy preservation. God, I nearly died on the operating table!

All along, it was never about wanting a child, huh?

It was about getting a child without Carmilla paying any price!

They had secretly switched the embryos!

I had unknowingly become their surrogate!

Before I could process this absurd truth, Cruella suddenly hugged Carmillas leg and looked up at her.

Mommy! I like you so much!

I hate the mommy at home!

Shes not pretty, shes always strict, and she forces me to learn so many things I dont even like!

At that moment, my heart went completely empty.

I watched the husband who had always acted like an emotionally clueless straight man fuss tenderly over Carmilla.

I watched the girl I had raised for six years, who had never once said Mom, I love you, cling to another woman and pour out her affection.

I left the set like a walking corpse. Then I called my dad, with whom I had cut ties years ago just to marry Viggo.

My voice, however, came out unexpectedly calm.

Dad.

Ive thought it through.

I want a divorce. This family I dont want it anymore.

Mariahs POV

Are you sure?

Dads voice was low on the line.

This isnt just a spur-of-the-moment decision?

I leaned back against the rear seat of the car and closed my eyes for a second.

Yeah, I said. Ive thought it through, Dad.

He paused, then said, Alright. If youve made up your mind, come back.

Ill get you a lawyer. From here on, everything goes by your call.

But theres one thing you need to understand.

If you come back to run the company, you cant just come and go like before.

From now on, any man you bring in has to be a husband. Marriage, assets, kids? Everything has to be in your name.

He stopped for a beat.

Thats the Victorians rule.

I know, I replied without hesitation. I agree.

A soft sigh came through the phone.

Seven days then, he said. You need to report to the company in seven days.

Alright.

Shortly after, the car pulled up in front of the law firm.

I didnt hesitate. I went straight inside, explained my intention, and asked for a divorce agreement to be drafted.

The receptionist lawyer hesitated, her expression turning awkward.

Maam theres already a divorce agreement under your name, she said. It hasnt been signed yet.

My heart skipped.

Who filed it? I asked.

Sir Viggo Roosevelt.

For a moment, I thought Id misheard, so I asked to see the document.

After verifying my identity, the lawyer handed it to me.

I flipped through it page by page. With every line, my heart grew colder.

The agreement spelled everything out clearly. How Viggo would use my premarital assets free of charge. How the company we built after marriage would be transferred entirely into his personal name. How he even accused me of marital infidelity to claim a larger share of the assets.

In the end, I would walk away with nothing.

Not even the company we had built together. He didnt plan to leave me even a single damn cent!

I couldnt help but laugh.

So thats how it is.

I pushed the agreement back across the table, my tone so calm that even the lawyer froze for a second.

Have my lawyer revise it, I said. When its done, give it back to Viggo.

He wants me penniless?

Oh, Viggo, if you dont end up exactly the way you were before marrying me, with nothing to your name, then I dont deserve the Victorian family name.

By the time I got home, it was already late.

Cruella was sitting in the living room playing with her toys. The moment she saw me, her face darkened.

Bad woman! Why are you home so late?

She frowned, her voice sharp. Were you out fooling around again?

I stopped in my tracks. Cruella

Youre so shameless! She raised her voice. Other kids moms are already home by now. Youre the only one who isnt!

Viggo stood up from the couch, his tone displeased.

Look at yourself, he said. Youre a mother. Do you think this is appropriate?

Coming home this late every day. What kind of example are you setting for her?

I stood in the entryway, my hands slowly curling into fists.

I had heard this lecture for seven years.

Whenever I worked late, hed tell our daughter that women who come home late are restless and improper.

If I woke up late and didnt make breakfast, hed say a good mother would never let her child go hungry.

Under this constant emotional pressure, Id been forced to give up parts of the company, rush home early, juggle being a stay-at-home mom while still trying to build a career.

And yet, nobody ever noticed what I gave. All I got in return was fucking blame!

There was something going on at the company, I said, swallowing my emotions out of habit.

Cruella, go to bed early. You have art class tomorrow.

The words had barely left my mouth when she suddenly screamed.

I dont want to go!

That brat grabbed a cup from the table and hurled it at me.

I didnt have time to dodge. The cup shattered against my forehead. A sharp ringing filled my ears. I staggered, reached up, and my hand came away covered in blood.

I dont want to learn painting! She cried hysterically. I hate it! Why are you forcing me? Youre a bad mommy!

Viggo rushed over immediately and pulled her into his arms.

Alright, alright. Baby, dont cry, he soothed softly.

Then he frowned at me. Whats wrong with you, honey? Why are you putting so much pressure on the child?

Shes only six.

Isnt it better for her to grow up happy?

As I stood where I was, a chill crept up from my feet.

Back then, it was Cruella who loved painting. She begged me for it again and again.

I was the one who thought she was too young and wanted to wait.

It was Viggo who said I was selfish. Who said I wasnt thinking about her future. Who said it would make her fall behind at the starting line.

And now, somehow, it was all my fault.

I wiped the blood from my face, my voice turning cold.

Cruella. Apologize to me.

The living room went silent.

You dared to hit your mother today, I said, staring at her. Tomorrow, will you dare to hit other kids at kindergarten?

I will not accept raising a criminal.

I had never spoken so harshly to her before.

She froze then burst into loud sobs.

Bad mom! Bad mom! Bad mom! I dont want to talk to you anymore!

Why should I apologize to a bad mom?

Viggos expression darkened completely.

Mariah! When did you become this petty?

Its just a little scratch. Is it really worth getting angry at a child over? Right now, you dont look like a mother at all!

I suddenly laughed.

What does a mother look like?

Is this the fucking face I make after giving birth, no milk, forced to drink that nasty-ass medicine?

Or when she stumbled learning to walk, I had to fucking kneel on the floor, teaching her step by step like some damn servant until she could walk?

The more I remembered all the shit I went through before, the colder I felt. I used to endure it all for the love of this damn family. Even if it was bitter, I swallowed it like it was sweet, thinking we were all on the same page.

But now, I knowthe only ones on the same damn page are them, not me.

I endure, I retreat, I play nice, and this fucking family doesnt change a bit.

They just take it all for granted!

Youre still being stubborn! Viggo said coldly. Apologize to Cruella. Or Ill take her to my parents place for a while.

Once upon a time, that sentence used to terrify me the most.

Fear of shit from my mother-in-law, fear of being shot down by my father-in-law, fear that Viggos family would hate me.

But now? Not a damn bit of fear left.

I spoke softly.

Cruella, if you dont want to learn, then you wont. Ill cancel the tutoring classes.

If private school doesnt suit you, Ill transfer you to public school.

From now on, I wont interfere in your life anymore.

Viggo froze.

Before he could say anything, Cruella cheered.

Thats what a good mom is like!

I didnt respond. I just turned around and went back to the bedroom to bandage my wound.

Soon, the door opened.

Viggo walked in, his tone gentler.

Honey, did something happen to you today?

He reached out, trying to help me apply some ointment.

Why did you suddenly cut off Cruellas classes?

I raised my hand and pushed him away, my voice flat and cold.

Isnt this what you and Cruella wanted? Im just letting her grow up happy.

Mariahs POV

My words caught Viggo off guard.

He clearly hadnt expected that response. His expression froze for a couple of seconds before his brows knit together again, his tone slipping back into that familiar Im doing this for your own good voice.

You cant put it that way, he said.

The tutoring can slow down, sure. But how can you just cut everything off completely? Do you know how hard it was to get Cruella into that private school? You spent so much effort back then. Have you really forgotten?

I didnt respond. I just lowered my head and kept tending to the wound.

Standing beside me, Viggo watched my indifference. A flicker of irritation flashed in his eyes, quickly smothered.

If you dont agree, I said flatly, then you can explain it to your daughter yourself.

This was a decision you and she made together.

He clearly froze.

He had never seen me this cold before.

In the past, no matter what he said, Id instinctively smoothed things over for him, cleaned up his messes, never once pushed responsibility back onto him.

The displeasure crossed his face again, gone just as quickly.

As if remembering something, he suddenly reached into his briefcase, pulled out a document, and handed it to me.

Alright, lets drop the Cruella issue for now.

Oh, right. Sign this.

He spoke casually. A deal I just closed today. The process is a bit rushed.

Cruellas issue wasnt urgent. He didnt really believe Id stop caring about her anyway. He just assumed I was saying things out of anger.

This so-called deal, on the other hand, mattered.

If this were before, I wouldnt even have opened the contract.

I never interfered in his career. I just signed, transferred money, and took responsibility when things went wrong.

This time, I didnt bother reading it either.

Because I already knew that this wasnt a goddamn business contract at all.

It was a fucking divorce agreement dressed up as one.

Judging by his reaction, he probably hadnt realized yet that the contents of that agreement had already been revised.

When he saw me sign, his shoulders visibly relaxed. His voice softened immediately, compliments spilling out.

If this goes through, well make a lot of money.

Honey, when its done, Ill make it up to you. A proper wedding this timebig, formal, invite everyone.

Youve always regretted not having one, havent you? Ill make it up to you.

Seven years ago, when we got married, he had nothing.

No wedding. No rings. Our parents hadnt even formally met.

Over the years, every time he needed my support, he dangled the word wedding in front of me like bait.

And damn, I always believed him.

Even now, knowing he was divorcing me for Carmilla, when he used that familiar, practiced tactic, my chest still ached.

I blinked, forcing the bitterness down. As I handed the document back, I couldnt stop myself from adding, If we got divorced

I didnt even finish before he cut me off, righteous and firm.

How could we get divorced?

His tone was absolute. This family cant function without you. Neither I nor our daughter can live without you.

Youre the backbone of this household. Dont overthink things.

He sounded so certain.

Yet his words and his actions couldnt have been more opposite.

Before I could speak again, I noticed the smile he couldnt quite suppress.

He thought he could trick me into signing the divorce papers and leaving me with nothing.

But soon, he'll understand what it feels like to lose everything.

As if realizing something, he coughed and forced himself back into composure.

Alright. Get some rest. Im going to step out and make a call.

And with that, he hurried out of the room.

He even forgot to finish applying the meds.

I bit down on self-mockery.

Not long after, my phone vibrated.

It was a message from the lawyer.

[Maam, the divorce agreement has officially entered the process.]

I stared at that line for a long time.

And then I laughed.

I laughed and laughed until I finally broke, collapsing onto the bed, sobbing uncontrollably.

Nine years of sincerity.

Ill just consider myself blind, terrible at judging people.

After crying, I calmed down quickly.

Silently, I packed my belongings. I contacted the school, canceled all of Cruellas tutoring classes, withdrew her enrollment from the private school, transferred her to a public one, and froze her allowance account.

I had never been speaking out of anger.

As for Viggo, he didnt know yet.

In a few days, the company I brought into the marriage as a wedding gift would return, intact, to my dads name.

Including the house we were living in.

Everything Id bought for this so-called family of three over the years, I sorted through it all. What could be thrown away, I threw the hell away.

When I came back again, the door was shut.

I opened it and saw Carmilla.

She was sitting on the living-room couch, sunglasses and a mask on, her suitcase beside her.

Cruella hovered around her, looking up at her like a little chick, chatting eagerly.

In the kitchen stood Viggo, hands that had never touched housework, wearing an apron, making her a late-night snack.

At the sound of the door, Carmilla removed her sunglasses and mask and smiled at me.

Mariah! You remember me, right?

Her tone was casual, as if nothing were wrong.

We were roommates in college.

My hotel in Glendale got exposed by paparazzi. I cant go back right now.

I thought about it, and you and Viggo are the only people I know here.

She gestured around.

This neighborhood has good privacy. Ill just stay for a bit.

Then, as if remembering something, she added warmly, Were old classmates. You wont mind, right?

Viggo walked out of the kitchen holding a bowl of soup.

He didnt even look at me.

Of course not, he answered on my behalf. Were old classmates. Whats wrong with staying a few days? The house is big.

Mariahs POV

My nails dug deep into my palms.

The divorce wasnt even finalized, and Viggo had already brought Carmilla into my home!

Everyone there, except little Cruella, knew exactly what a shitstorm Carmilla and I had gone through.

Back in college, that bitch spread some rumors that I wore fake crap, that I could only have this much money by screwing some old man.

She even spread rumors that I was selling myselfmade a price for a nightflooding my phone with harassment messages asking if Id fuck them.

I had always considered her a close friend, trusted that fucking snake, until I could bear it no longer and investigated, only to find all the rumors came out of her lying mouth.

Later, she broke up with Viggo to pursue her entertainment debut.

And I, completely unaware of their past, was the one Viggo chased after.

After graduation, I found out the class had labeled me the other woman. They said I stole him. That I forced Carmilla into show business. At that time, I felt unbearably fucked over.

Viggo held me then and said, People only see whats on the surface. We just need to live our own lives.

Looking back now, the only dumbass was me.

In the living room, the three of them acted like I didnt exist.

Cruella eagerly served Carmilla a bowl of soup.

When Carmilla flinched from the heat, Cruella immediately grabbed her hand, full of concern.

Mom, I mean, Auntie, Ill blow on it for you.

Viggo hurried over with burn ointment.

Meanwhile, the wound on my temple was still bleeding, and not a single fucking person looked at it.

I let out a sarcastic laugh and stepped forward.

I lifted my hand and smashed that bowl of soup onto the floor.

Sorry.

I looked at them, my tone calm.

This is my house. No outsiders are allowed to live here!

Viggo and Cruella both froze.

Before the sound of the bowl finished fading, Viggo had already stepped in front of Carmilla, his tone a mixture of shock and anger.

Have you lost your mind?! he snapped.

Cruella snapped out of it too, rushing over and shoving me hard.

How can you be so cruel?! MomI mean, Auntie Carmillais just staying for a few days! What is wrong with you?!

I stumbled back, my spine slamming into the edge of the table. The pain shot through me, but it was nothing compared to the icy ache spreading through my chest.

Maybe I had swallowed too much for too long.

At that moment, I was done swallowing shit.

Listen carefully. Both of you.

I straightened slowly, staring at them, enunciating every damn word.

This house is mine. If you want to let some outsider stay here, fine.

But then the two of you can get the hell out with her.

The air went dead silent.

Viggo stared at me like Id grown another head. Then he let out a furious laugh.

What did you just say?

Weve been married all these years. The house belongs to both of us. Who the hell are you to decide alone?

This is my home! Cruella shrieked. Mine and Daddys!

Only then did Carmilla speak, all slow and soft, playing the saint.

Its okay, she sighed lightly. If Mariah really doesnt want me here, Ill leave.

That fake, delicate retreat made me look like the villain.

I turned my gaze to Viggo, cold as ice.

She can stay, I said coolly. Ten thousand a day.

If you dont pay, Ill leak her location to her fans tomorrow.

Carmillas face changed instantly.

She clearly hadnt expected me to go that far.

For a moment, Viggo hesitated, too.

But then he looked like he remembered that the divorce agreement had already been signed. It would be finalized in a few days.

In his mind, ten thousand a day, seven daysseventy thousand. Compared to a house worth tens of millions? A fucking bargain.

He discreetly squeezed Carmillas hand, thinking I wouldnt notice.

Then he turned to me, his voice softening.

I know you mind that shes my ex.

But thats all in the past.

Mariah, if this makes you feel better, ten thousand it is.

Ill pay. Okay?

I didnt respond. I simply held out my phone.

Transfer it.

His jaw tightened, but he wired the money anyway.

The moment the payment notification chimed, I turned and walked upstairs.

The house felt filthy to me now.

Tomorrow, Id move out.

And soon enough, it would be sold.

That night, I woke up out of habit to use the bathroom.

The space beside me was empty.

I hadnt wanted to share a bed with him in the first place. He insisted, saying the guest room was for Carmilla, so he had to stay with me.

When he tried to touch me earlier, I shut him down.

As I passed Carmillas door, I stopped.

They werent even trying to be quiet.

Her laughter drifted out, smug and teasing.

Being with a big star feels different, doesnt it?

Viggos reply was low, casual.

Of course.

Shes different.

She doesnt have a waist as soft as yours. Youre fucking lethal.

Carmilla chuckled.

These few days, youd better keep coaxing her.

Cruellas still hard to handle at this age. Once she starts elementary school, itll be easier. Then you can dump that woman.

Viggo answered without hesitation.

Alright. Whatever you say.

Thats when I finally understood.

Why the divorce agreement was signed, yet he hadnt acted.

He was waiting for me.

Waiting for me to keep serving as their free nanny. Waiting to squeeze out whatever value I had left before discarding me.

A silent, bitter smile touched my lips.

I pulled out my phone and recorded everything.

Then I sent the file to my assistant.

[Seven days. Send this to Carmillas biggest rival.]

If this was the entertainment industry, you solve problems the entertainment way.

They're so smug now, so pleased with what they think is their perfect plan. But in the end, the one who will suffer won't be me, but them.

Mariahs POV

Back in my room, I lay awake all night.

I thought about every time Viggo and I had been intimate over the years. Every single time, it was over before it even began.

I had tried initiating. Tried pleasing him. Tried warming something that always felt cold.

He always said he was just tired. That he didnt have the energy.

Turns out it wasnt about energy.

He just wasnt interested in me.

I wiped the dampness from the corner of my eyes and forced them shut.

When I woke up the next morning, the house was already empty.

I didnt bother wondering where theyd gone.

I went straight to the company under my name. I wanted everything settled cleanly.

But the moment I walked into the lobby, I saw Viggo. Beside him was Carmilla, wearing a mask. There was also Cruella, her hand held tightly between them. They were strolling through the lobby like a family.

I had never seen him look this openly triumphant.

Like a rooster showing off its prize.

All these years, everything he had, his position, his status, had come from me.

In front of me, he always had to lower his head, restrain himself, and pretend.

In front of Carmilla, he finally felt whole.

I was busy. I didnt want to acknowledge them. I just wanted to finish my work and leave.

But Carmilla called out anyway.

Mariah! Youre here! She smiled. Its been so many years. I didnt expect youd still be this impressive, building a company this big with Viggo.

In just a few sentences, she lightly brought up college, brought up dating, and casually mentioned the past.

Back then, Viggo and I were together. Then you suddenly appeared.

She tilted her head slightly. Maybe you two really were meant to be.

I just wasnt lucky enough.

In just a few sentences, she painted me as the shameless intruder.

But she misjudged her audience.

Aside from a few new hires whispering among themselves, the long-time employees, people whod followed me for years, turned around and walked away with a blank expression.

Viggo was pleased.

He leaned in and said quietly, Carmilla hasnt seen the company before. Im just showing her around.

Dont overthink it.

Cruella chimed in, too.

Mom, dont be jealous.

Thats what bitter women do.

I didnt look at them again.

I handed the reviewed contract to my assistant and turned to leave.

Id just reached the end of the corridor when the floor jolted beneath my feet.

At first, it felt like a brief imbalance like an elevator misfiring.

Then the entire floor began to sway. Ceiling lights rattled violently, metal screeching.

The earthquake alert sounded.

My first instinct wasnt to run. I turned back.

Everyone evacuate immediately! I shouted toward the office floor. Follow the drill routes. Dont push!

The veteran employees moved almost on reflex, grabbing emergency kits, shielding one another as they headed for the stairwells.

But the new hires Viggo had brought in clearly hadnt been trained.

They panicked, screaming and stampeding toward the exits.

Stop running! I tried to stabilize the chaos. Stay against the wall! Move in order!

But no one listened.

In the confusion, Viggo scooped up Cruella with one arm, grabbed Carmilla with the other, and bolted for the exit without looking back.

I had just taken a step when he shoved me hard.

Move!

I wasnt prepared for that. I slammed into the edge of a desk. Pain tore through my lower back. Before I could steady myself, another desk was knocked over by the crowd and crashed down on my leg.

I let out a muffled groan. I was trapped in place!

Above us, a ceiling light broke free, falling straight toward Carmilla.

Carmilla!

Viggo reacted on instinct.

He released Cruella and lunged forward, throwing his body over Carmilla.

The light fixture smashed into his back. Blood soaked through his shirt almost instantly.

But he didnt make a sound. He only held Carmilla tightly and said in a rushed, hoarse voice, Its okay. Dont be afraid.

Cruella, left behind when he let go and left her where she stood.

She fell to the ground, her face pale, crying without sound. Her limbs were weak; she couldnt even stand up.

I saw her. No matter what, she was still the child I gave birth to.

My leg was pinned. My back throbbed so badly I could barely breathe. But I still clenched my teeth and dragged myself over.

Cruella dont be scared.

Panting, I pulled her into my arms. Hold onto me.

I dragged her toward the exit inch by inch. Dust and debris kept raining down. My throat burned from the air.

Thankfully, the shaking eased quickly.

Rescue staff rushed in and lifted the desk off my leg.

I had just steadied myself and hadnt even had time to breathe in relief when Cruella suddenly shoved me away.

Dont touch me!

Mariahs POV

Cruella scrubbed at her face in disgust. So gross! Thats disgusting!

Before I could react, she stumbled toward Carmilla and threw herself into her arms.

Mom! Are you okay? I was so scared I was so scared

Carmilla burst into tears, clutching her tightly.

Viggos back was torn open, blood soaking through his shirt, but he didnt spare himself a glance. He lowered his head, checking Carmilla over and over.

Where does it hurt? Did you get scared?

In that moment, love and indifference stood in stark contrast.

I stood off to the side, something lodged in my chest so tightly I could barely breathe.

For weeks Id told myself to stay calm. To harden my heart. But when you finally understand that you are not the one being chosen it still hurts. It hurts so badly your whole body trembles.

I didnt understand how it had come to this.

I used to believe Viggo had loved me, at least once.

Seven years ago, during the cruise ship fire, he never left my side.

We drifted at sea for three days and three nights. He fed me his own blood to keep me conscious and begged me not to give up. When we were rescued and I burned with a high fever, he ignored his own weakness and took care of me for an entire week.

Back then, I thought I would marry no one but him.

My dad called me foolish. He threatened to cut ties with me. And I accepted it without hesitation.

But now, with something to compare it to, I finally see the truth.

He did save me. It just wasnt love.

It was a carefully packaged debt of gratitude.

And that life-saving favor? Over these past few years, Ive repaid it in full.

We owe each other nothing now.

At the hospital, I had just finished getting my wounds treated when the door to my room was kicked open.

Viggos parents stormed in.

You curse! his mother shrieked, pointing at me as if I were something rotten. She even tried to claw at my face. If it werent for you, how could he be hurt this badly?

What kind of company building collapses like a condemned house? Lights falling from the ceiling?! Are you kidding me?

I looked up at them, cold and steady.

My building meets top-tier safety standards. No one controls an earthquake. Your son got hurt because he chose to save someone. Why is that my fault?

She froze, clearly not expecting me to talk back.

Her face flushed red. Clutching her chest dramatically, she grabbed my arm and dragged me toward the door.

Youre coming with me. Youre going to apologize to Viggo!

But when we reached his hospital room, they suddenly stopped.

Viggo had settled Carmilla onto the bed. He was feeding her medicine himself.

When he saw his parents, he didnt even glance in my direction.

She was really shaken up, he said. Mom, can you massage Carmillas head? She says its killing her.

His parents expressions changed instantly. They rushed over to her bedside.

Oh, dear, whats wrong? Why are you so pale?

Then, as if on cue, they turned and snapped at me again.

This is all because your company isnt safe! You bring nothing but bad luck, making everyone miserable!

Cruella ran over and hit me.

You built a bad building on purpose! You wanted to hurt my mom!

Carmilla spoke weakly from the bed.

Cruella, dont blame Mariah. No one can predict an earthquake.

Viggos eyes reddened with tenderness. Right in front of me, he brushed her hair back and kissed her gently on the cheek.

Im sorry you had to go through this.

Cruella threw herself into Carmillas arms again. Mommy worked so hard.

His parents sighed along.

If hed married Carmilla back then, none of this wouldve happened.

As if the earthquake were something I had personally caused!

As if only Carmilla had been injured, and I hadnt been hurt at all.

I stood there, expressionless.

But inside, it felt like thousands of ants were gnawing at my heart. The pain spread and spread until I could barely stand. Until I nearly broke.

The in-laws Id bent over backward to please adore Carmilla.

The husband and daughter I gave everything to didnt recognize me. Didnt love me. Didnt even ask about my injuries.

I was a complete joke.

I turned and walked away without another word.

I asked the nurse to start my discharge paperwork.

It wasnt even finished when someone blocked my path at the corner of the hallway.

Mariah.

I looked up.

Carmilla stood a short distance away.

Her makeup was gone. A strip of gauze was taped to her forehead. She looked pale, fragile. In her hand, she held a cup of warm water, like shed been waiting for me.

I wanted to apologize, she said softly. Back at the company I didnt expect Viggo to act so impulsively.

Mariahs POV

I didnt respond. I turned and started to walk away.

Honestly, the way he rushed over like that scared me, too.

She continued behind me, her voice calm, not loud, but every word landed clearly.

I didnt even have time to react. He was already standing in front of me.

Dont misunderstand, she added lightly. It was just instinct. He saved me first without thinking. After all, no matter how much you have, you still cant win a mans heart.

The words were naked provocation. A quiet boast.

My steps slowed, but I didnt turn around.

Then, suddenly, a dull thud sounded behind me.

A womans sharp gasp. The sound of a body hitting the floor.

A bad feeling surged up my spine.

I spun around.

Carmilla was sprawled on the ground, her forehead smashed against the sharp corner of a cabinet. Blood streamed down from her temple.

She lifted her head, eyes red, voice trembling.

Mariah why did you push me?

For a split second, my mind went completely blank.

Then the hospital room door flew open.

Viggo rushed in.

He saw the blood and Carmilla on the floor.

His face darkened instantly.

Mariah!

He crossed the room in a few strides and slapped me across the face.

The sound was sharp and loud. My head snapped to the side. My ears rang.

Have you lost your mind?! he roared. Shes an actress! How could you hurt her face?!

If youre angry, take it out on me!

Is this because my parents dont like you, so you lash out at someone else?

I spoke on instinct. I didnt push her

Before I could finish, he cut me off with a cold laugh. You didnt?

He looked at me with open contempt. So you expect me to believe that an actresssomeone who treasures her face more than anythingwould smash her own head into a cabinet just to frame you?

Mariah, he said slowly, deliberately, do you really think youre some pampered heiress having a princess meltdown?

You enjoy taking your anger out on others that much?

At that moment, every urge I had to explain vanished.

He had already decided I was guilty. Nothing I said would change that.

I lifted my head and looked straight at him.

A pampered heiress?

I repeated softly.

Yeah, I said, suddenly smiling. I am.

I gave up being one for you. I walked away from my dads wealth, brought you a wedding gift, married you, and built everything from the ground up by your side.

Anyone else can accuse me of having a princess complex, I said, locking eyes with him. But you, Viggo? You dont deserve to.

As the last word fell, I slapped him back. Harder than he had hit me.

The sound echoed through the room.

Viggo completely lost control. He never imagined that I, the woman who had always swallowed everything, would raise a hand against him.

He lunged forward, but Carmilla grabbed him tightly.

Viggo, dont, she cried, shaking her head. Forget it. Im fine.

That sentence snapped him back to reality.

He hadnt gotten all my money yet. This wasnt the time to lose his head.

He took a deep breath. His face was still ugly, but the pretense of tenderness was gone.

Lets go.

He bent down, lifted Carmilla into his arms, and turned to leave.

Before walking out, he tossed over his shoulder,

Mariah, Im taking Cruella to stay with my parents for a few days. When you finally realize you were wrong, then Ill come home.

He thought it was a killing blow.

He thought Id do what I always did. Llower my head, apologize, cry, beg him to come back.

But I never would again.

I wiped away my tears and took a deep breath.

Then I booked the earliest flight out.

All that packing over the past few days, sorting through my belongings, closing out the company, was just me being reluctant to leave a place Id lived in for years. A home I hadnt fully let go of.

But really, as the Victorianss eldest daughter, what couldnt I buy again? What company couldnt I rebuild?

The reason I hadnt left right away was never about those worthless things.

And now, none of it mattered.

At the airport, my lawyers message came through.

[Maam, all divorce procedures have been fully completed.]

[The terms of the divorce agreement are being enforced, and your ex-husband is about to lose everything.]

With a faint smile playing on my lips, I transferred the funds from my bank account to the law firm. I snapped a screenshot and sent it to my lawyer: "Thank you for your help. Please find the receipt for my legal fees attached."

Moments before the plane took off, I found the contact info for Viggo and his family and blocked them for good.

"Happy divorce, Viggo. Soon enough, you'll realize that the one leaving with nothing isn't meits you."

Three days later, thinking everything was settled, convinced he still had me under control, Viggo smirked as he called the house landline.

He was waiting for me to cry, to apologize, to beg him to come home.

Instead, a stranger answered.

Hello, this is a real estate agency.

The property has already been sold. Please return as soon as possible to collect your personal belongings. Otherwise, they will be disposed of in the community trash area.

At the same time, Carmilla, face mask on, voice lazy, drawled from beside him.

Honey, when can we move back into the big house?

Mariah still hasnt apologized yet?