Seeing the Truth

At eighteen, Mike stormed into my home and shot my stepfather ten times. As police dragged him away, bloodied, he grinned at my shocked face. Rachel, don't be afraid. No monster will ever hurt you in the name of family again.

After prison, he found me scavenging through trash, bullied by thugs. His fists tightened. He took me to the city's underbelly, where we knelt, and he rebuilt himself into the feared King of the Docks.

On our wedding day, he casually gifted me the entire Copperfield district as a dowry, declaring to all that I, Rachel Vance, was his life.

But at twenty-eight, he was drugged during a deal and spent a night with another woman. Clutching divorce papers, I was intercepted by him and his men before reaching the lawyer. He loaded a pistol, pressed it to his own heart, and vowed, "Rachel, I'd rather die than lose you." Unable to bear it, I relented.

Later, I saw Mike with that womanher belly roundedshopping in an upscale baby store. The powerful man knelt before me, eyes red, explaining, "Lila is your father's illegitimate daughter. He's badly injured overseas; only she can bring him back. I swear, once I deal with that beast, I'll send her away."

Swallowing the pain, I believed him again. Until this time, with one call, he diverted the heart my mother had waited ten years for.

1.

I stormed into Lilas VIP hospital room, ignoring the room full of dark-suited bodyguards and doctors. I raised my hand and slapped Mike hard across the face.

He turned his head, his tongue tracing his bleeding lip. When he turned back, there was no anger in his eyes, only a complex look as he explained, Lila was shot in the chest trying to save me. I couldnt just leave her to die.

I gave a cold laugh and turned to leave. I used a secret way to arrange for my mothers transfer to a hospital abroad. Then I found a lawyer to draft divorce papers and went to find Lila alone.

Were both women, I know exactly what you want.

Lilas eyes darted away. I dont know what youre talking about.

Mike wasnt wearing his bulletproof vest that day. Where was it? Dont tell me you dont know.

Lilas hands clenched, her knuckles white.

I dont want to be part of your game anymore, I said, handing her the divorce papers. If I give these to him personally, he wont sign them. You figure out a way to get him to sign without knowing.

Lila pursed her lips. Youve misunderstood. I never intended to ruin your marriage.

This is your only chance, I said coldly. Think carefully.

Lila stared at the agreement for a long time before finally taking it.

Thank you, Rachel, for making our little family whole.

A family of three? My heart felt like it had been violently ripped out.

Then I wish you a happy and complete family.

And dont call me Rachel. I find it sickening.

I couldnt bring myself to forgive Mike and Lila. The only thing I could do was to tear Mike out of my very being.

Returning to the castle Mike had spent billions building for me, I began to pack away the gifts he had given me over the years, one by one, into cardboard boxes.

When I was ten, he drew a castle, two adults, and a child on a blank piece of paper, saying, This will be our family portrait one day.

When I was eighteen, covered in blood, he placed eighteen blood-stained bullet casings in my palm. From now on, you are the freest Rachel Vance.

When I was twenty-five, he controlled the entire underworld empire of the Docks and couldnt wait to propose to me. The hand that had never trembled while holding a gun and taking a life, shook uncontrollably as he placed the wedding ring on my finger. It took him several minutes to finally put it on. He smiled, both cocky and arrogant. Rachel, for the rest of our lives, you are mine. You cant escape.

Finally, there was a deed to half of Copperfield, with My heart, for you written on the back.

My eyes burned with unshed tears.

Sadly, another woman already occupied his heart.

I gave a self-deprecating laugh, packed everything, and scheduled a timed delivery to Mike. I specifically instructed that it was a birthday gift and had to be delivered precisely on time.

The next day, I was woken by noise downstairs. Moving boxes were piled in the living room. Mike was cradling a crying baby, softly cooing. Lila stood beside them, the three forming a harmoniously jarring picture. The setting sun cast a fleeting, gentle glow on his hard profile.

Lila whispered, I can just go back to my old apartment

Its not safe there. I can only rest easy with you living here, Mike cut her off, his tone leaving no room for argument.

I leaned against the doorframe, watching for a long time, unnoticed. Until Lila picked up our framed photo from the mantelpiece.

Mike, I said coldly, do you even remember where this is? What kind of riff-raff are you bringing in?

Mike finally realized I was home. This is the safest place. Once things calm down, Ill send them away.

Our eyes met. One cold, one weary. I looked away first. Whatever.

But Lila stepped forward, offering an envelope. Rachel, thank you for your hospitality. Heres a small token of my appreciation.

I opened it. It was the signed divorce agreement. The bold, powerful signature Mike Sterling at the bottom was just like his resolute promise to love only me all those years ago.

My fingers trembled imperceptibly as I held the agreement. I hadnt expected it to be so quick, so easy.

Since it was, I didnt need to cling on any longer.

Whats that? Mike reached for it, but I deftly dodged him, stuffing it into my bag. My belongings are none of your concern.

Mike stared at me for a few seconds, then suddenly pulled a black card from his wallet and handed it to Lila. Take this. The PIN is 0608.

The PIN was still my birthday, yet the bank card was now a gift to appease someone else. I curved my lips in a sarcastic smile. It seems Im interrupting your happy family of three here.

With that, I turned to leave. Just as I brushed past him, Mike snatched the divorce agreement from my bag. A rare flicker of seriousness crossed his eyes.

But he was interrupted by a childs wail.

Its my fault. My presence has made Rachel angry with you, Mike. If she doesnt want me here, Ill just leave

Saying this, she hurried towards the door with the baby.

This time, Mike had no mind to look at the paper. He stepped forward to block Lila and her child, his tone towards me colder than Id ever heard it.

Rachel, be sensible. Lila saved my life. I cant just watch them live in danger, can I?

Theyre innocent. Even if your father hurt you and your mother because of her, it wasnt Lilas fault. Do you understand?

Realizing his tone was too harsh, he glanced at Lila, then lowered his voice, coaxing me, Even if I have a child, youre the only one I care about.

My gaze swept over the child in Lilas arms.

Care? If he truly cared, how could he bear to let me be a laughingstock again and again?

I opened the door and walked out. I had already booked a taxi.

Just as I pulled open the car door, my wrist was seized from behind. Mike had followed me out.

I said Id take you.

Mike, Im not the one who needs you right now.

Mikes pupils constricted, his grip tightening. Rachel

His palm was scalding, burning like a branding iron.

Oh, come on, handsome. If hes that sincere, lady, just go with him, the driver said, canceling the order.

Todays snow was heavier than usual, falling thick and fast. Getting another taxi would mean a long wait. I finally compromised. Fine, you can take me.

Mikes expression softened slightly. He took my hand, his fingers forcefully interlacing with mine.

Your hands are freezing. You didnt wear gloves?

Forgot, I said calmly, not mentioning that my gloves were always kept in his car.

On the way, Mike tried to lighten the mood, reminiscing about old times. I remember the first time I fought for you. It was also a heavy snowfall like this. After the fight, I grabbed a chocolate bar for you, and it melted in your hand.

I remained silent, but Mike didnt give up, his voice uncharacteristically gentle. Next month is our wedding anniversary. What gift do you want? I need to prepare in advance.

My expression flickered. I suddenly wanted to tell Mike directly that I had decided to divorce him.

My phone rang before I could speak.

Mike! The baby wont stop crying for some reason. I cant comfort him.

Lilas tearful voice mingled with the babys hoarse cries. Mikes face instantly changed. Whats wrong? Im coming right back!

The call ended. He didnt hesitate. Rachel, can you take a taxi to the hospital yourself?

Okay. I looked at Mike for a few seconds, then calmly agreed, swallowing the words I had been about to say. He was so close to knowing my decision.

The snow was too heavy, and the location too remote. I couldnt find a taxi at all. I trudged through the snow, my legs numb with cold. Tears streamed down my face, instantly freezing into ice.

I finally reached the civil affairs office, my face almost transparently pale, my voice lacking any warmth. After warming up in the heated office for a while, I submitted the divorce papers to the staff. Id requested expedited processing; they said Id have the divorce certificate in seven days.

Returning to the castle, only the guest bedroom light was on. Mikes gentle voice seeped from under the door. Daddy and Mommy will always love our little baby the most He was singing a lullaby to coax the child to sleep.

What should we name the baby? Lila asked softly.

Leo, Mike blurted out.

Star-like brilliance, the light of the emperor. That was the name he and I had chosen for our future child years ago, after spending a night poring over dictionaries.

Now, it was easily given to someone else.

I curved my lips in a self-deprecating smile and turned to go upstairs.

Late at night, hot breath ghosted against my neck, and cool lips pressed against my skin.

Mike! I woke with a start, pushing him away forcefully. Dont touch me! I find it disgusting!

You despise me? He froze, his eyes instantly darkening. He ignored my struggles and kissed me fiercely.

Hiss

I bit his tongue. The metallic taste of blood filled my mouth. Mike winced, but still didnt let go. My nightgown was roughly torn open, revealing my pale, tender skin. His touch everywhere only caused waves of nausea. Tears silently streamed down, splashing onto his hand.

Alright, dont cry. He finally stopped, fumbling to wipe my tears. Its my fault.

I clenched my fists, staring at him. You said everything could go back to how it was

But Mike, you never used to be like this.

Mike paused, then after a moment, he whispered, Im sorry. He took a pillow and went to the sofa.

Perhaps due to my tears last night, Mike felt guilty and suggested we go to the shooting range to relax. When he pulled up the car, I was about to get into the passenger seat, but Lila squeezed past me. He didn't notice at all, getting out of the car himself, placing his hand on Lila's head to shield her as he helped her in. After we arrived, he was constantly doting on her, completely forgetting I was behind him.

Careful, its slippery.

Look down. Put on your goggles.

Drink some hot water, dont catch a cold.

Every word felt like a bullet tearing through me.

I silently walked to a shooting lane, picked up a silver Desert Eagle, expertly loaded and cocked it, then aimed.

These were the things he had taught me when I was twenty-five, whispering softly in my ear, guiding my hands.

But now, all his attention was on another woman, afraid she might suffer the slightest mishap.

Ten minutes later, he finally remembered me, but only to say, Rachel, can you hold the baby for a moment? Im going to teach Lila how to shoot.

I ignored him, pulling the trigger repeatedly. The gunshots echoed, startling the baby into loud cries.

Lila immediately persuaded, I wont learn anymore, Mike. Go accompany Rachel.

Mike frowned, picked up the baby, and walked towards the rest area to find his assistant.

Rachel, Lila approached, holding a small pistol. Her smile was gentle, but her eyes were cold. I heard lead bullets are safe, but Im curious what happens if youre shot within a meter.

She suddenly raised her arm and pulled the trigger!

Bang!

The gun fired. The bullet tore through my wrist bone. Blood spattered out. Lilas scream rang out simultaneously, and Mike rushed over almost immediately.

Mike! I cried out in pain.

But he ran straight to Lila, his expression frantic, scooping her up and rushing out, not once looking back at me.

Warm blood soaked through my sleeve. I vaguely recalled when I was twenty-five, he held my hand and said:

Rachel, guns are dangerous, but with me, youll never be harmed.

My vision blurred. I sank weakly to the ground.

When I woke again, I was in a hospital. Both hands were bandaged. The slightest movement brought excruciating pain.

Mike sat by my bedside, dark circles under his eyes.

Rachel, youre awake? His voice was hoarse. Does it still hurt?

Seeing his seemingly genuine concern, I suddenly felt very tired.

Did you investigate what happened?

It was just an accident, Mike replied without thinking, tucking me in. Rest well and dont overthink it, okay?

I pressed my lips together, wanting to speak, but then I noticed that my uninjured right hand was also bandaged.

What happened here?

Lilas hand was severely mangled, and the doctors said she needed a skin graft. But shes allergic to artificial skin

A chill spread through my body, bit by bit.

Your skin matched hers. The situation was too urgent, so I signed the consent form for you to donate skin to Lila.

He said it so casually, yet I felt as if Id plunged into an ice abyss. My eyes widened in disbelief, trying to find a trace of a joke in his gaze, but tears welled up uncontrollably.

Mikes tone became urgent: It was just a small piece from the inner arm. It wont affect anything

Get out, I said softly, closing my eyes. I dont want to see you.

Mike froze, reaching out to touch me, but I fiercely slapped his hand away.

Get out! I shrieked hysterically. Get out!

The wound burst open, blood seeping through the bandages. Mikes face changed, and he frantically pressed the call button.

Rachel, calm down! Your wound has reopened!

I heard nothing, struggling wildly, my arm crashing against the bed rail. The nurse rushed in and held me down. A cold sedative was injected into my veins.

My strength rapidly drained away. With my last ounce of energy, I squeezed out two words:

Divorce.

On the day I was discharged, Mike personally picked me up and took me home. Everything there was back to normal. All traces of Lila and the child were gone. Mike set out the food. Try it. I havent cooked in a long time.

His expression was normal, but I felt something was off.

I looked at him and asked directly, Mike, I dont want to interfere in your and Lilas affairs anymore. If you have something to say, just say it.

Dont overthink it. Eat first. He evaded the question, serving me food and soup.

During the meal, there was only the faint sound of cutlery. He glanced at his watch occasionally, a habit of vigilance hed developed over the years.

My unease grew stronger. I hastily ate a few bites, and as soon as I stood up, a wave of dizziness sent me back down.

Mike put down his utensils, his expression slowly turning cold, chilling to the bone. Rachel, this is your punishment.

His tone was one I had never heard before, so devoid of warmth.

Ive already sent Lila away, yet you still dared to leak her whereabouts to my enemies! She and the child were almost run over! Rachel, how could you become so vicious? Thats my child too!

Leaked whereabouts? Almost run over?

I gritted my teeth. I didnt

Only I, Lila, and you knew about that house! Was she trying to get herself killed? He suddenly pulled me up. Ive indulged you too much.

Rachel, reflect on your actions.

With that, he personally locked me in the closet. The world instantly plunged into dead silence and darkness.

When I was ten, my mother hid me in a closet, and I watched my father brutally assault her for three hours. Blood splattered all over the closet. I stayed in there for three days and three nights. It was Mike who found me and carried me out.

Now, he was the one who personally locked me in.

Cold sweat immediately drenched my back. Fear seized my heart. I huddled in the corner, breathing rapidly, unable to distinguish reality from illusion, my face ashen. Before consciousness faded, I saw him at our wedding three years ago, holding my hand, swearing to the heavens:

I, Mike Sterling, swear to God, I will never betray you, Rachel Vance, in this life.

That vow, once made, now burned to ash in an inferno.

When I woke again, the air was thick with the smell of disinfectant.