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With only three months left before the divorce, she was dr**ged and ended up spending a reckless night with the husband she had never met in three years of marriage. She fled in panic, but he found the family locket she left behind—and began searching everywhere for her. ===== Juliana Stevens woke up and discovered she had spent the night with a man. Silence filled the room. The air still carried traces of what had happened the night before. Her eyes landed on a business card lying on the floor. It had fallen from the man's suit jacket. The moment she read the words on it, her breathing stopped, and her thoughts froze. The card bore the name: Adrian Spencer, CEO of Spencer Group. He was known as the richest man in Eleyton, the city they were currently in, and one of the most influential business tycoons in their state, Arcridge. What stunned her the most was that this man was actually her husband, the one she had been married to for three years without ever meeting. Their first encounter had happened under these circumstances. Adrian remained asleep. The face before her was nothing like the ugly man people often described. His features were striking. He had a straight nose and well-shaped lips. Everything about his appearance seemed almost too perfect to be real. People also claimed he was ruthless. Yet as he lay there, he looked refined and distinguished instead. It appeared that those stories weren't true after all. Juliana tightened her grip on the blanket. Anxiety and confusion made her heart race. Their marriage had been forced by their families. Even their marriage registration had been handled by Adrian's grandfather, Hugh Spencer. That was why she didn't know what her husband looked like until now. In another three months, the agreement that bound them together would come to an end. She had been counting down the days until she could finally be free. During the past three years, Adrian had never shown up, which made her believe he disliked this marriage just as much as she did. The memory of the previous night made her let out a frustrated gr**n. Why did this have to happen when there were only three months left before their divorce? Now, she could only hope that Adrian hadn't seen her face last night. A storm of emotions swept through her. Juliana jumped out of bed, gathered her clothes from the floor, and got dressed as quickly as she could before rushing out of the room. Keeping her head lowered, she rushed out of the hotel when her phone suddenly rang. It was her best friend, Maia Palmer. "Anna, weren't we supposed to have a meeting at the studio this morning? Why haven't you arrived yet?" From her father, Juliana inherited both a sharp business mind and a gift for design. She skipped several grades, earned her master's degree ahead of schedule, and received multiple international awards for jewelry design. To the public, she was known as the vice president of Stevens Group. However, she also had another identity that very few people knew about. She was the founder and owner of one of the industry's leading jewelry design studios. Over the last two years, the studio had grown into a globally recognized name. Today, she was expected to lead a meeting for the launch of a new product line. Right now, however, she had no interest in dealing with work. Reaching the roadside, Juliana flagged down a taxi. "Maia," she said as she climbed into the car, "I'm not feeling very well today. Let's move the meeting to tomorrow." After ending the call, she turned to the driver and said, "Garden Apartments, please." During the ride, Juliana tried to piece together everything that had happened the previous night. It was the annual gala of Stevens Group, and she'd lost her bearings completely after only two glasses of w**e. She remembered wanting to return to her hotel room and rest, but her dizziness became so severe that she couldn't even find her way back. Then she ran into Adrian in the hallway. Somehow, she ended up following him into a room. Normally, she could handle al**hol very well. A few drinks were not enough to affect her. Then another memory surfaced. The previous night, her half-sister, Janessa Stevens, had accidentally spilled her drink and brought her a replacement. Could the second drink be sp**ed? While she was still thinking about it, a call from her uncle, Louis Stevens, came through. As soon as she answered, his furious voice blasted through the phone. "Juliana, come home this instant!" ... Back in the hotel room, the man who had been fast asleep began to wake. His eyes opened little by little before he pushed himself upright. The blanket slipped down, revealing the firm lines of his body and his defined a*s. A sharp look entered Adrian's eyes as he surveyed the room in silence. He stepped out of bed, picked up a bath towel from the floor, and secured it around his waist. Disorder filled the room, and the woman was nowhere to be seen. His face immediately turned grim. At that moment, a knock sounded at the door. "Come in," he said. The door swung open, and his assistant, Rylan Jenkins, entered the room. "Mr. Spencer," he greeted respectfully. Without delay, Adrian asked, "Did you see a woman leave this room?" Rylan shook his head. "No, Sir." The look on Adrian's face became even colder. He walked across the room and noticed a pendant lying on the floor. Its workmanship was exquisite. Some characters had been engraved on the back, but years of wear had made them impossible to read. She must have forgotten it here. Adrian frowned, closing his fingers around the pendant. The events of the previous night surfaced in his mind. During a business dinner, he had unknowingly drunk a glass of w**e that had been tampered with. After realizing something was wrong, he returned to his hotel room and intended to wait until the effects passed. Before he could get inside, however, he crossed paths with a woman in the hallway. The instant they made contact, a powerful urge rose within him and overwhelmed his self-control. He never even had the chance to see her face clearly before the two of them ended up inside the room he had reserved. Given the situation-a dr**ged man and a woman in the same room-everything that followed seemed unavoidable. Adrian's thoughts drifted back to the woman's uncertainty and vulnerability from the previous night. No matter what, she had helped him during a moment when he couldn't control himself. He needed to find her and make it right. Adrian placed the pendant in Rylan's hand and spoke in a cold tone. "Find out who that woman is." Chapter 2 Harm From Her Own Family As soon as Juliana walked through the front door to the Stevens estate, a harsh male voice exploded through the room. At the same time, a glass was hurled straight toward her head. "Where have you been? Janessa said you didn't come home all night. Have you forgotten that you're a married woman?" Juliana quickly moved aside. The glass brushed against her cheek before it smashed against the pillar behind her with a sharp crash. Louis sat in the middle of the couch in the living room. Anger covered his face. Beside him sat his wife, Sharon Stevens, and their daughter, Janessa. The sight of the family of three made Juliana let out a mocking laugh. When she was still a child, her father lost his life in a plane crash. Not long after his death, her mother, Sharon, married Louis, her father's younger brother. Together, they took control of her father's company and later welcomed a daughter named Janessa. From then on, Juliana never truly felt like she belonged in that house. "Juliana, we tried calling you all night, but we couldn't get through. We were worried sick about you." Wearing a white dress, Janessa rose from her seat and linked her arm through Juliana's. Then her eyes landed on Juliana's neck. Suddenly, she pulled open Juliana's collar and let out a startled scream. "Oh my God, Juliana! Did you spend the night with a man?" Both Louis and Sharon immediately came over. The moment they noticed the ma**s on Juliana's neck, their expressions turned grim. Anger filled Sharon's face as she lifted her hand and sl**ped Juliana. "Juliana, is this what I taught you? Have you learned nothing except how to f**l around with men?" Pain spread across Juliana's cheek, and a trace of bl**d appeared at the corner of her mouth. She slowly turned her face back toward Sharon. Her eyes were cold. "Mother, are you judging me before asking what actually happened?" A trace of hesitation appeared on Sharon's face when she saw the pain in Juliana's eyes. Louis struck the table with his palm and shouted, "If the Spencer family hears about this scandal, our entire family will be finished. You shameless woman, how could you betray your husband?" Juliana met his anger with a cold laugh. "When Hugh came looking for a bride for his grandson, the person he chose was Janessa. You're the one who forced me to marry in her place. If this family goes down because of it, I don't care." "You..." Louis choked on his words. Her response left him speechless, and his face turned red with fury. Sharon looked at Juliana with disapproval. "Juliana, don't speak to your uncle that way." Ignoring Sharon completely, Juliana shifted her attention to Janessa. "You switched my drink last night. You're the one who set me up." Janessa lifted her head and blinked innocently. "What are you talking about? Why would I do that to you? What would I possibly gain from setting you up?" Juliana narrowed her eyes while she looked straight at Janessa. If the man from last night hadn't been Adrian, everything would have ended for her once the Spencers learned the truth. Janessa had never gotten along with her. She knew Janessa would have been more than happy to watch her fall apart. By then, Louis had already told a servant to bring him a whip. Putting on the air of the family head, he snapped, "Juliana, I'll make sure you learn your lesson today. After this, you'll know better than to bring trouble to this family again." From the side, Janessa watched with cruel delight. Her eyes showed nothing but contempt for Juliana. Louis lifted the whip. But before it could strike, Juliana reached out and caught it. Then she yanked it out of his hand and swung it straight back at Janessa. Janessa failed to move away in time, and a bl**dy mark appeared on her arm at once. She screamed, "Juliana, have you lost your mind?" Shock froze Louis for a moment. Then he pointed at Juliana and shouted in fury, "How dare you touch Janessa!" Juliana faced them with cold eyes. "You'd better keep your precious daughter in line. If she tries to play tricks on me again, I won't let her off this easily." After saying that, she threw the whip aside. She brushed off her hands as though she had touched something filthy, then turned and marched out of the house. Behind her, their angry shouts and curses followed, but she didn't look back. Once she returned to her own apartment, Juliana felt drained in both body and mind. Everything that had happened the previous night was still stuck in her thoughts, bothering her until she couldn't settle down. While changing her clothes, she realized the pendant she always wore was gone. She wondered where it could have dropped. She searched every corner of the apartment, but she still couldn't find it. Then a scene from last night suddenly came back to her, and she went still. The pendant must have fallen off inside the hotel room. Without hesitating, Juliana grabbed a coat and hurried out of the apartment. That pendant had been left to her by her father, and it meant everything to her. No matter what, she had to recover it. Soon, Juliana arrived back at the hotel. When she noticed that the room door was slightly open, she assumed Adrian had already checked out. The moment she walked into the room again, her eyes landed on the large bed that was still in disarray. Heat instantly rose to her cheeks. Memories from the previous night remained clear in her mind. Forcing those thoughts aside, Juliana started looking around the room for her pendant. Even after searching every corner of the room, she still came up empty-handed. Had Adrian picked it up? If he used that pendant to figure out that she was the woman from the previous night, she might not be able to divorce him smoothly in three months. She made up her mind that she couldn't allow him to learn who she was. Just then, a series of steady footsteps sounded from outside the room and drew closer to the door. Chapter 3 A Dangerous Reunion Juliana's breathing stalled. Her heart pounded wildly against her ch**t as she held her breath. A single thought crossed her mind-had Adrian returned? She quickly moved to a nearby table and acted as though she was a hotel housekeeper cleaning the room. A tall man entered the room with a subordinate following behind him. The man's presence filled the room with authority. After giving Juliana a measured look, he asked, "Are you here to clean the room?" Juliana silently drew in a breath. Forcing herself to remain composed, she turned toward him and nodded. A black dress shirt covered Adrian's broad frame, hinting at the firm mu**les beneath it. Every line of his handsome face appeared sharp and defined. There was a natural authority about him that was impossible to ignore. When his eyes settled on her, they were cold and piercing. Juliana's hands tightened into fists. On the surface, she appeared calm, but countless thoughts were racing through her mind. Would he recognize her? What should she do if he did? To her surprise, Adrian only spared her a brief glance before shifting his attention elsewhere and heading toward the couch. A small sigh escaped Juliana's lips. At least he hadn't recognized her as the woman from the previous night. Taking a seat on the couch, Adrian tossed a project proposal toward his subordinate and said coldly, "Do it again. If I see another mistake like this, you're fired." "Yes, Sir." Sweat broke out across the subordinate's forehead. His hands trembled as he accepted the proposal before quickly leaving the room. Watching from beside the table, Juliana couldn't help thinking that Adrian's temper was terrible. At that moment, Adrian spoke again. "Bring me a glass of water." The subordinate was already gone. That meant he was talking to her. Juliana walked over to the minibar and poured a glass of water. Suddenly, a thought entered her mind. What if Adrian had already found the pendant she lost? Hope flickered in her eyes. Holding the glass, she turned around and headed toward him. As soon as she got close enough, she pretended to lose her footing and spilled the entire glass of water onto him. The front of Adrian's shirt was drenched in an instant. Irritation immediately appeared on his stern face. Just as his anger was about to surface, she hurried toward him and began brushing at his shirt in a panic. "Sir, I'm so sorry! Are you okay?" While pretending to wipe away the water, Juliana quickly searched him for any sign of her pendant. The moment her fingertips brushed against the firm mu**les of his ab**men, a powerful hand suddenly locked around her wrist. Without warning, Adrian pulled her toward him. Juliana wasn't prepared for it. She slammed straight into his ch**t. Before she could react, his large hand wrapped around her throat. A dangerous look flashed across Adrian's eyes. "You snuck into my room," he said in a cold voice. "What exactly are you looking for?" Juliana tried to break free, but his grip around her neck held her firmly in place. His strength was overwhelming, and she could barely breathe. Only after her face turned red from lack of air did Adrian finally release her and shove her away. Juliana staggered backward and crashed onto the floor. A low gr**n escaped her lips. As he listened to her struggling to catch her breath, Adrian studied her more carefully. It suddenly struck him that her breathing sounded remarkably similar to the woman's from the previous night. Back then, the room had been dark. All he remembered was a slender body, and br**thless sounds that lingered in his memory. Rubbing her sore neck, Juliana slowly pushed herself off the floor. "You've got the wrong idea," she remarked. "I just came here to clean the room." Just as Adrian was about to say something, another knock sounded at the door. His assistant, Rylan, stuck his head inside. "Mr. Spencer," he said respectfully, "the person you asked me to bring is here." Adrian briefly looked at Juliana before signaling for them to come in. Rylan stepped into the room, and a young woman in a white dress followed behind him. Standing quietly to one side, Juliana studied the newcomer. She caught the woman's shy looks toward Adrian. She also noticed the ma**s on the woman's neck that were impossible to miss. Everything about the woman suggested she had recently been in**mate with someone. People often said Adrian had no interest in women. Now, it seemed those stories were completely untrue. A man with his status and influence would never be short of women wanting to be around him. For some reason, that realization eased Juliana's worries. If he already had plenty of women in his life, there was no reason for him to dwell on what had happened between them last night. After the woman entered, the look Adrian directed at Juliana became even colder. Despite all the rumors surrounding him, women constantly tried to use him as a stepping stone. In his eyes, Juliana was no different from the rest. Turning to Rylan, Adrian instructed, "Throw her out." Before Rylan even had a chance to react, Juliana had already started moving toward the door. "There's no need for that," she replied. "I know the way out." Without waiting for another word, she turned around and quickly left the room. Since the pendant wasn't on Adrian, she needed to figure out where else she might have lost it. Believing he was a womanizer, Juliana became even more determined to end their marriage as soon as possible. Chapter 4 The Wrong Girl Adrian leaned back into the couch and brought a ci**rette to his lips. Sm**e drifted upward, softening his features and making his already striking face seem distant. Across from him, the woman kept glancing over with unease. His silence pressed on her, leaving her too intimidated to speak. After a short pause, Adrian lifted his eyes and studied her closely. "Tell me your name." "Lydia Scott," she answered. She remained standing, lowering her gaze as she looked at him. A faint blush spread across her face. Adrian's attention shifted when he noticed the m**k just beneath her collar. "Why did you leave so early this morning?" he asked. Lydia quickly went over everything in her mind. She had been at the hotel with a client the night before and left early this morning. Later, Rylan found her and showed her a pendant, asking if it belonged to her. It looked valuable, so she claimed it was hers. After confirming the timeline, he brought her here. By now, she was nearly certain they had mistaken her for someone else. But the man in front of her was wealthy and attractive, and she didn't want to let that slip away. Lydia looked up, her voice soft and vulnerable. "It was my first time. I got scared, so I left." Adrian watched her in silence. Something about her didn't match the woman from last night, yet he couldn't explain it. After a while, he said, "Miss Scott, I'll take responsibility for what happened. Tell me what you want." A spark of excitement appeared in Lydia's eyes. "I want to stay by your side," she said in a quiet voice. Adrian's expression tightened slightly. The woman who had left without a word had caught his interest, but the one standing in front of him now only made him feel indifferent. He looked at her and said flatly, "I'll arrange a place for you. You'll be compensated well, and everything will be taken care of." "Thank you, Sir." Thrilled, Lydia nodded obediently. Once Lydia left, Adrian pressed his ci**rette into the ashtray and looked toward Rylan. Understanding the signal, Rylan began speaking. "The hallway cameras were under maintenance last night, so we have no footage. I checked the front desk records. Her check-in and check-out times match perfectly. I also looked into her background. She's a dance major at a university and comes from an average family." He took out the pendant and placed it on the table. "Should I return this to her?" Adrian's eyes lingered on the pendant. They had found the woman, yet something still felt off. After a long moment, he finally spoke. "I'll keep it for now. Give her whatever she asks for." Meanwhile, Juliana stepped out of the hotel when Louis called. She ignored it several times before finally picking up. "What do you want?" Louis sounded serious now, without the earlier anger. "The preliminary designs for the Willow Villa project are ready. I heard Hugh hasn't been well. You should take the files and visit him." Juliana let out a short laugh. "You don't actually care about me visiting him. This is about the project, isn't it?" Back when she married Adrian three years ago, Louis took that chance to approach Hugh and secure an investment from Spencer Group into Stevens Group. Many of Stevens Group's projects depended on that funding to keep going. This year, they entered the real estate market, and Hugh entrusted them with the Willow Villa project, putting in three hundred million dollars. It gave the company a major advantage. "Stop making this difficult, Juliana," Louis said over the phone. "This project affects Stevens Group's future. You need to go to the Spencer estate immediately." He ended the call right after. Juliana thought it over. This could work in her favor. She could use this visit to bring up a divorce with Hugh. Once she made up her mind, she went to the Stevens Group headquarters, picked up the design drafts, and then headed straight to the Spencer estate. Since Hugh fell ill, he rarely left the house, and this would be her first visit there. "Anna." Juliana had just arrived at the gate when someone called out to her. She paused and turned toward the voice. Nathaniel Quinn approached her, dressed in a white suit, a polite smile on his face. "I thought I was mistaken. I didn't expect it to be you. What are you doing here?" Juliana felt a hint of surprise. Nathaniel was the successor of Quinn Group. The Quinn and Stevens families had worked together before, so they were on friendly terms. His mother also happened to be Hugh's goddaughter. Her marriage to Adrian wasn't public, so the Quinn family had no idea. Juliana offered him a polite smile. "I'm here to see Hugh about work." Nathaniel's eyes shifted to the folder in her hands. He was aware of the collaboration between Spencer Group and Stevens Group. "I was at Stevens Group's annual party last night. I tried to find you, but you weren't there. Where did you go?" He fixed his eyes on her, waiting for an answer. Juliana's expression remained calm. "I wasn't feeling well, so I left early to rest." He pressed on. "Where did you go after that? Who were you with?" Juliana frowned slightly. "Why are you asking me that?" For a brief moment, unease flickered across Nathaniel's face before he covered it with a smile. "It's nothing. I was just curious." Just then, the sound of cars approaching reached them. Chapter 5 Stay Over A convoy of black luxury cars rushed forward, carrying a clear sense of authority. Standing in the middle of the road, Juliana barely had time to react before Nathaniel pulled her aside. His hand caught her at the waist to steady her. "Watch out," he cautioned. The cars passed them and lined up in front of the villa ahead. At the same time, the household staff hurried out, their expressions filled with respect. A bodyguard stepped out first and opened the rear door of the center car. A sleek black leather shoe stepped onto the pavement, and a tall figure rose from the car behind it. It was Adrian. When Juliana saw him, surprise flickered in her eyes. In the next moment, Adrian's cold gaze shifted toward them. His eyes landed on Nathaniel's hand, which still rested at her waist. A faint crease formed between Adrian's brows. It was her again. It seemed she wasn't focused on just one man. In his eyes, she would chase anything tied to money and status. Juliana silently cursed her timing. Of all days to run into him, it had to be today. She had thought he rarely visited his grandfather. Without hesitation, she pushed Nathaniel's hand away and stepped back. By then, the staff had already gathered around Adrian and greeted, "Welcome back, Mr. Spencer." Nathaniel stepped forward as well and greeted him. "It's been a while, Adrian." Adrian's expression remained unreadable as he looked at Juliana, though his words were directed at Nathaniel. "Did you bring her here?" Nathaniel glanced back at Juliana and smiled. "No. She's here to..." Adrian didn't wait for him to finish. He turned and walked straight into the villa. The grey-haired butler and the rest of the staff followed behind him. Left standing there, Nathaniel turned to Juliana and said, "That's Hugh's grandson. He just got back from abroad." Juliana nodded slightly and lowered her gaze, hiding the emotions in her eyes. Not long after, Nathaniel received a call and had to leave, so Juliana entered the villa alone. Inside the villa, Adrian was nowhere to be seen. The butler approached her. "Ms. Stevens, we've been expecting you. Mr. Spencer is waiting in the study." "I understand." Juliana nodded and followed the butler upstairs. A strong scent of herbal medicine filled the study. Resting on a lounge chair, a man in his sixties lay back with a thin blanket over him. His figure looked gaunt, and his face carried a pale, sickly tone, yet there was still an air of authority about him. Juliana stepped closer and placed the folder onto the coffee table. "Mr. Spencer, I've brought the preliminary designs for the Willow Villa project." Hearing her voice, Hugh slowly opened his eyes. A trace of warmth appeared in his otherwise imposing gaze. "So you've come, Juliana." "How have you been feeling lately?" Juliana asked politely. He straightened slightly in his chair and smiled. "Did Louis send you here?" Juliana lowered her eyes and remained silent. He noticed her reaction but didn't press further. Instead, he let out a quiet chuckle. "We haven't met often these past three years, but I've been paying attention to you. You've done well." Raising her head, Juliana met his eyes and said, "You gave me your word. After three years, you'd allow me to divorce." A sharp look flickered in Hugh's eyes. "That time hasn't come yet, has it? What I said still holds." At his response, Juliana felt a quiet sense of relief. Hugh picked up the folder and skimmed through it. "I'll review this and give you an answer tomorrow. Stay here tonight. Adrian just returned, so you can use this chance to meet him." Juliana's heart sank at the suggestion. She had no desire to see Adrian at all. She said quickly, "I think it's better to take things slowly. We barely know each other." Hugh didn't push her on that, but he didn't let her leave either. "It's late, and traveling alone isn't safe. Stay here tonight. We can discuss the meeting another time." Juliana was about to refuse again when Hugh suddenly began coughing violently. The butler rushed in at once with medicine and water. Hugh glanced at him. Understanding the signal, the butler turned to Juliana. "Please stay for the night, Ms. Stevens." Seeing how weak Hugh looked, Juliana couldn't bring herself to refuse. Not long after, a maid guided her to a room. The space was large and quiet. She stepped inside, but the sound of running water reached her ears from the bathroom. Confusion crossed Juliana's mind. It sounded like someone was already inside. The bathroom door suddenly slid open. A tall figure stepped out. She didn't have time to get out of the way and bumped into the man's ch**t. Adrian had just come out of the shower. He wasn't wearing anything. For a moment, he froze, clearly not expecting anyone to walk into his room. The instant Juliana looked up, she froze. Adrian stood there, fresh from the shower, completely unclothed. A sharp g**p escaped her as heat rushed to her face. Without thinking, she turned and rushed toward the door. She barely managed to crack it open before his arm shot out and slammed it shut again. The clean scent of his body wash reached her as his firm frame pressed against her back. "You still want to pretend this wasn't intentional? Now you've taken it a step further and walked straight into my room." Juliana's heartbeat pounded wildly. Every muscle in her body tensed. ...... What happens next? 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During her search, she saved a powerful billionaire. When they met again, he pinned her against the wall. "Doctor Y," he said, "may I offer myself in exchange for another rescue?" ===== "Yelena, back so soon? Brett White may be older, but he's everything a woman could want--rich, influential, and dependable. You should be honored to have such a chance to be his wife." Sonya Roberts leaned against the doorframe, a smug smile painted on her lips. Yelena Roberts' expression hardened. "Why don't you take this 'chance' for yourself, Sonya?" Yelena's voice cut like a bl**e, her eyes narrowed with scorn. "You spiked my drink, didn't you?" Before Sonya could react, Yelena surged forward, her palm colliding sharply with Sonya's cheek. The crack of the sl*p rang through the room, slicing through Sonya's arrogance. Sonya clutched her stinging cheek, her confidence crumbling into a strangled gasp, as the fierce red imprint of Yelena's fingers seared into her skin. "Yelena! You insolent girl! Have you gone mad?" Tatiana Roberts stormed forward, her face twisted in rage and disbelief as she glared daggers at Yelena. "How dare you hit Sonya?" What an ungrateful wr**ch! After all, Yelena wasn't even a Roberts. Three months ago, a trip to the hospital changed everything. Yelena had been admitted for an injury, and what should have been a routine bl**d test cracked her world wide open. Her rare bl**d type didn't match Jonathan Roberts or his wife--her supposed parents. The revelation shattered the once happy family of three--Yelena wasn't their real daughter. Desperate to restore balance, the Roberts family launched an exhaustive search for their true daughter. They found her in Sonya, a woman who slid seamlessly into the life that had never been meant for Yelena. From that day on, Yelena became a ghost in her own home, a usurper unwittingly basking in luxuries meant for Sonya. What was once hers was now declared an injustice, an insult to Sonya's rightful claim. Jonathan and Tatiana needed to make amends with their newfound daughter. But simply cutting Yelena loose? That seemed wasteful. Brett White, a wealthy associate, had expressed a certain infatuation with Yelena. If they played their cards right, marrying her off would guarantee a five-million-dollar payoff. So, they hatched a sinister plan. A dr**ged drink. A room prepared for betrayal. They intended to hand her over like a pawn, signed and sealed. Yelena, however, had shattered their scheme, slipping away from their clutches in the nick of time. She turned to Tatiana, defiant and composed, her voice cutting through the room like a bl**e. "She dr**ged me, ridiculed me, and treated me like I was nothing. So tell me, don't you think that sl*p was well-deserved?" Sonya's face fell, her lips trembling before she plastered on a look of false hurt. "I was thinking of your future," she replied, her voice sickly sweet. "Mother told me your real family was from a poor village. Marrying Mr. White would elevate your entire existence. Surely, that's a blessing." Yet behind her feigned innocence, Sonya seethed. How dare Yelena strike her? Retribution would come. Soon. "If marrying into wealth is such a blessing, why not seize it yourself?" Yelena's voice dripped with ice as her narrowed eyes pierced straight through Sonya and Tatiana. "You ungrateful girl!" Tatiana's voice was a whip crack of fury, her eyes blazing. "How dare you even think to measure yourself against Sonya? She is leagues above you! Sonya is already engaged to Roger Ellis, heir to the prestigious Ellis family. A union that befits her status!" Sonya stepped forward, her smile syrupy sweet, but her eyes gleaming with triumph. "That's right, Yelena. Roger told me I'm his one true love, the only one he could ever imagine by his side." The reality of it all hung in the air like a suffocating fog. Yelena had been Roger's fiancee first, a plan set in motion long before Sonya's existence was uncovered. But the moment Yelena's parentage unraveled, so did her engagement. Sonya stepped into her place as effortlessly as one might slip on a perfectly tailored gown. Even Roger had seemed eager to make the swap, his affections pivoting to Sonya with startling ease. Sonya's gaze lingered on Yelena, scanning her like a predator assessing prey. The softness of her features, her luminous skin, the poised elegance that seemed intrinsic to her--Sonya hated it. Envy coiled in her chest, venomous and bitter, but she masked it behind her well-practiced smile. "Relax, Sonya. I wouldn't touch Roger with a ten-foot pole. You two are perfect for each other--a match so unfortunate it's almost poetic. Just be sure to keep your theatrics to yourselves. The rest of us don't need the headache." Yelena's lips curved into a slow, disdainful smirk. Jonathan, sensing the tension reaching a breaking point, finally stepped in. "Yelena, this is for your benefit. We found you a suitable match, someone who can secure your future. But if you insist on refusing, then so be it. Perhaps it's time you sought out your biological parents." Despite knowing the depths of Tatiana and Sonya's scheming, Jonathan didn't even try to stop them. He understood their actions were wrong, yet the undeniable truth of Yelena's origins left no room for her to remain with the Roberts family. With a resigned sigh, Jonathan pulled out an envelope containing ten thousand dollars and held it out to her. "Take this. It's the least we can do. We mistakenly brought you here from Phurg, and we believe your real parents are still there." Phurg--a desolate and impoverished region, surviving only on the charity of corporations--was a stark reminder of how far removed Yelena was from the life she had known. Tatiana scoffed, crossing her arms. "Jonathan, are you serious? We raised her for more than a decade. We owe her nothing. And now you're handing her money after she had the audacity to strike Sonya? She's nothing but an ungrateful little parasite." Ungrateful? Yelena let out a bitter, mirthless laugh, her cold chuckle slicing through the air. Their eagerness to discard her so easily, as if she were an old trinket they no longer wanted, struck her deeper than she cared to admit. When she first found out that she wasn't their biological child, she had considered leaving them with a significant parting gift, a sum of money to ensure their security. But now? That notion felt laughable. Jonathan lacked the skills to manage a business, and Tatiana was little more than a glorified spender, bleeding their resources dry. If it weren't for Yelena's behind-the-scenes efforts, the Roberts Group would have collapsed long ago. Her eyes hardened as she straightened her posture. "Thank you for the gesture, Mr. Roberts, but that won't be necessary," she said, her voice calm and resolute. Without waiting for a response, Yelena turned on her heel and ascended the staircase to pack her belongings. Sonya hastily ran after Yelena. When Yelena returned downstairs, her figure was composed, carrying nothing but a worn black bag slung over her shoulder. Her expression was unreadable, but her posture radiated defiance. Sonya trailed after her, her face a mask of false concern. "Wait, Yelena! Don't be so hasty. These clothes are practically new--you really should take them. I mean, I heard your real family is... well, struggling," she said. With a calculated flourish, Sonya reached out and grabbed Yelena's bag. The loud clatter of its contents scattering onto the marble floor seized everyone's attention. Amid the mundane items lay a gleaming Chanel bracelet, its brilliance catching the light like a beacon. Sonya let out an exaggerated gasp, her hand flying to her chest. "This... this is the bracelet Dad gave me just last week! How could it end up in your bag?" Yelena's lips curled into a cold, mocking smile. So this was Sonya's plan--a final attempt to humiliate Yelena. She glanced at Sonya, her eyes sharp as d**gers. If Sonya wanted a show, she'd give her one. "How could you, Yelena?" Tatiana shrieked, her voice trembling with outrage. "Stealing from the very people who raised you? After everything we've done for you? No wonder you turned down the ten thousand dollars--you've already helped yourself to something far more valuable! A thief within the family is the ultimate disgrace!" Jonathan's frown deepened into a stormy scowl. He stepped forward, his voice low and foreboding. "Yelena, explain yourself. Why did the bracelet I gave to Sonya end up in your bag?" Chapter 2 A Wounded Man "Jonathan! She's nothing but a thief!" Tatiana's voice cracked with urgency, her frustration boiling over. "We should call the police immediately!" Sonya, ever the picture of contrived benevolence, stepped forward with a sigh. "Dad, Mom, let's not jump to conclusions. Perhaps it was just a misunderstanding. Maybe Yelena put the bracelet in her bag without even realizing it. I'm sure she didn't mean to." "What? She didn't meant to? Are you seriously trying to tell me that the bracelet just happened to fall into her bag? This isn't just some trinket--it's an original design by Yvonne, a true masterpiece. Irreplaceable. Yelena knew exactly what it was worth. Her greed is written all over her. It's exactly as I feared! No matter how long we raised her, we can't change her nature." Tatiana's words lashed out like a whip, dri*ping with contempt. "Mom, really, let it go," Sonya chimed in, her tone soft, almost pitying. She turned to Yelena with a sigh, her lips curving into a faintly sympathetic smile. "If she loves it so much, let her keep it. It's not like we'll see her again anyway. Though I can't deny, this bracelet has always been special to me. Yvonne is my idol, and her designs mean the world to me." Yelena watched their performance in silence, her expression unreadable. Each line, each gesture, was delivered with the precision of seasoned actors. If they ever decided to give up their privileged lives, they could make a fortune in the theater. The absurdity of it all almost made her laugh. Calmly, she bent down and picked up the bracelet, letting its brilliance glint in the light. Without a word, she approached Sonya, holding the clasp up to her face. "Take a good look," Yelena said, her voice cool and composed. "Read what's engraved here." Sonya's smile wavered, her confidence slipping as she hesitated. Narrowing her eyes, she leaned in, her gaze falling on the inscription. The elegant engraving stood out clearly--Y.R. "How... how could this be?" Sonya stammered, her voice faltering as her shock momentarily slipped through her polished exterior. "Aren't you a devoted fan of Yvonne's work, Sonya? Surely, you're aware that this series was designed with the option for custom engravings--each bracelet made unique to its owner. Not only that, but as a limited edition, every single piece is registered with an identification code. One-of-a-kind, impossible to duplicate." Yelena's lips curled into a wry smile. Her tone, calm yet laced with cutting mockery, was a bl**e honed to perfection. Before Sonya could respond, the sound of hurried footsteps broke the silence. A servant descended the staircase, clutching another bracelet in her hand. "Miss Roberts, is this the bracelet you've been searching for?" The room fell into stunned silence, all eyes locking onto the bracelet in the servant's hand. Sonya, recovering quickly, plastered on a strained smile and let out an exaggerated sigh of relief. "Oh, there it is! I can't believe it was here all along. How silly of me!" Her voice dripped with forced cheer, but her mind raced, panic bubbling just beneath the surface. What happened? She had been certain she'd slipped the bracelet into Yelena's bag. Yelena's icy gaze fixed on Sonya, the corners of her lips tugging into a cool, condescending smirk. "Well, Sonya, do you still think I stole your precious bracelet? Are you sure you want to get the police involved?" Sonya's composure wavered for a split second before she replied, "This bracelet is worth a small fortune. Tell me, Yelena, how could you possibly afford something like this? Unless..." She paused, her smile twisting into something uglier. "Unless you resorted to something less... honorable. After all, some girls these days will do anything for the right price." Yelena's smile sharpened into a blade, her eyes glinting with icy disdain. "You seem awfully knowledgeable about that line of work, Sonya. Tell me--was it firsthand experience that taught you how these trades operate? Did you sell yourself before rejoining the Roberts family? Is that why you're so well-versed in the details?" Sonya's face burned crimson, her mouth opening and closing in sputtering outrage. "You... you're making baseless accusations!" "Yelena, you insolent brat!" Tatiana roared, her face contorted in rage as she slammed her fist against the armrest. "How dare you speak to Sonya like that? Get out of this house! Out of this family! And don't ever come back!" Yelena's smile grew sharper, radiant with defiance. Her eyes glittered with icy resolve. "Beg me on your knees, and still, I wouldn't step foot in this place again," she said, her voice as smooth as steel. Turning on her heel, she slung her worn black bag over her shoulder and strode toward the door. She didn't hesitate, didn't look back. For her, the Roberts family and their hollow pretenses were already a closed chapter. She felt no sadness, only relief. The charade was over. "Good riddance!" Tatiana sneered behind her, venom dripping from her words. She slumped into her seat, exhaling deeply, her lips curling into a smile of satisfaction. In her mind, the family was finally rid of an unwelcome burden. Yelena walked out into the crisp evening air, the villa shrinking behind her. Her phone buzzed in her pocket, and she answered it without breaking stride. "Yelena, I heard that they kicked you out?" Brody Hewitt's voice was sharp, brimming with agitation. "They did," Yelena replied evenly, her tone calm but resolute. There was a pause, and then Brody's voice hardened. "Those people are absolutely sh**eless!" Brody's voice crackled through the phone, brimming with indignation. "They're the definition of fair-weather friends. Without you, Jonathan Roberts would still be floundering in obscurity. They don't even realize that you were the reason for their success..." "That's enough," Yelena cut in, her voice calm but firm. "Any updates on my biological parents?" Jonathan had claimed it was a mistake at the hospital, a mix-up rather than an intentional act of abandonment. That distinction lingered in Yelena's mind, fueling her determination to find her family. Brody exhaled audibly, reining in his frustration. "Yes, the search is in progress. We should have concrete results soon." "Good," Yelena replied crisply, ending the call without another word. As she approached the main road, a sharp, metallic scent drifted on the cold breeze, cutting through the night air. She stopped mid-step, her brows furrowing as unease prickled at the back of her neck. A figure emerged from the shadows, staggering toward her. His white shirt was soaked in bl**d, the crimson staining his chest and hands. Each step he took seemed heavier than the last, his strength visibly waning. "Stop running, coward! Accept your fate!" a menacing voice shouted from behind him. Yelena's gaze darted to the source of the commotion. A group of men, dressed in black, stalked after the injured man like predators closing in on their prey. Their movements were deliberate, their intent clear. The injured man--Austin Barton--paused, swaying but defiant. His face was pallid, his breaths shallow, yet his voice held steel. "Who are you working for?" "Sh*t it! We're done talking." The man then turned to his group. "Let's finish him off already." "Wait." Another man halted abruptly, his gaze shifting to the side. "There's someone else here." Yelena froze as all eyes turned to her. Her heart sank. Perfect. Just perfect. Today had been a series of escalating disasters, and now this. It was painfully clear these men had no intention of leaving witnesses behind. The cause of her predicament stood before her--the bl**died man staggering in her direction. The leader of the group, a hulking figure with a cruel smirk, stepped forward. His eyes roamed over her, lingering too long, and his lips curled into something predatory. The men around him chuckled darkly, their laughter carrying an undercurrent of vile intent. "Don't be afraid, sweetheart," one of the men sneered, his tone mocking as his gaze lingered on her. "Once we deal with this guy, we'll take real good care of you. Whatever your pretty little heart d**ires--it'll all be yours." Yelena didn't flinch. Her eyes, cold and unyielding, met his with an intensity that froze the air between them. She uttered a single word, her voice low and commanding, cutting through the tension like a bl**e. "Leave." The men exchanged amused glances, still jeering, but their laughter faltered when they caught a glint of silver in the dim light. In her hand, a set of long, sleek needles shimmered, their tips sharp and unyielding. Yelena's lips curled into a mocking smile, her gaze sharpening into something lethal. Before any of them could process the shift in her stance, she moved. With fluid precision, her arm arced through the air, the needles slicing through the darkness like streaks of light. Each one found its mark with unerring accuracy--throats, shoulders, legs--their targets incapacitated before a single cry could escape their lips. One by one, the men crumpled to the ground, their weapons slipping from their hands. Their jeering confidence dissolved into stunned silence as realization dawned far too late. Austin, still struggling to stay upright, stared at the scene in wide-eyed disbelief. Who was this woman? Her movements had been precise, calculated--far beyond anything he had ever witnessed. She wasn't just skilled. She was extraordinary! Chapter 3 Returned To Her Real Family Yelena cast a cursory glance at the men sprawled on the ground before shifting her gaze to the injured man. His sharp features were striking--eyes dark and cold, his expression distant and stoic, as if carved from stone. Despite his pallor and obvious pain, he exuded an air of quiet resilience. She had every intention of walking away, leaving this chaotic scene behind her. Yet something in her hesitated. One of her weaknesses--her soft-heartedness--held her back. With a resigned sigh, she knelt beside the man and examined his wounds. "Thank you," Austin said, his voice low but carrying a sincere note of gratitude. "It's nothing," she replied, her tone detached, though her actions suggested otherwise. As she checked his pulse, her brows knitted together. The bl**ding, while severe, wasn't the most pressing concern. His pulse was weak and erratic--a telltale sign of poison coursing through his v*ins. Yelena opened her bag and retrieved a small porcelain bottle. Uncorking it, she sprinkled a fine medicinal powder over his bl**ding wounds. Almost instantly, the bl**ding slowed, and a soothing coolness replaced the sting of pain. She then produced a small pill and handed it to him, her voice steady. "Take this. It will counteract the poison. Without timely treatment, you won't make it much longer," Yelena said, her tone cool and matter-of-fact. Austin hesitated, his sharp eyes studying her as if trying to gauge her intentions. Yelena continued her work, efficiently bandaging his wounds. Just as she finished, the sound of footsteps reached them. She turned her head to see another group of people approaching. "Mr. Barton..." "They're with me," Austin said, exhaling in relief. His shoulders relaxed slightly, his posture easing. Yelena stood up. "Since your men are here now, I'll be on my way," she said briskly, already turning to leave. "Miss," Austincalled after her, his tone softer now. "At least tell me your name, so I can repay your kindness." "That won't be necessary," Yelena replied curtly, her voice cool but final. Before he could utter another word, she was already gone. Trouble was a luxury she couldn't afford. After being saved, Austin's sharp gaze lingered on her retreating figure, a spark of intrigue lighting up his otherwise steely expression. How had she pinpointed the poison merely by taking his pulse? Her precision, her unshaken calm, and her evident expertise--it all defied belief. One thing was certain though--as long as she remained in Eighfast, he would find her again. Yelena walked away without a glance behind her, her focus already shifting to the next step in her journey. Her thoughts were interrupted by the soft hum of an approaching car. A sleek, custom-built extended Rolls-Royce rolled to a stop in front of her, its polished exterior gleaming even under the dim streetlights. Yelena froze momentarily, as she'd only ever seen such extravagance in magazines and on television. The door opened with precise smoothness, and a middle-aged man stepped out. His movements were deliberate, his posture immaculate, and his expression carried a quiet reverence. "Miss Harris, we've finally found you! I am Sebastian Holden, the Harris family's butler. At the request of Mr. and Mrs. Harris, I am here to escort you home." "Me? Miss Harris?" Yelena asked, her voice tinged with disbelief. What was he talking about? The Roberts family had mentioned her biological parents were impoverished villagers from the remote region of Phurg. Yet here stood a man whose demeanor and the car he emerged from spoke of nothing but wealth and privilege. "Yes, you!" Sebastian confirmed, his tone measured yet warm. "You are the eldest daughter of the Harris family. Your mother got emotional and almost fainted when she learned of your existence, and your father instructed me to personally ensure your safe return. Please, come with me." Sebastian, his expression composed yet filled with deference, stepped forward and held the car door open for her. Yelena's mind raced. Could the Roberts family's investigation have been wrong--or deliberately misleading? Her bewilderment gave way to resolve. She had always intended to find her biological parents. If someone had come to take her to them, why hesitate? Taking a deep breath, she stepped into the car. The door clicked shut with a reassuring softness, and the vehicle glided away from the curb... ...... Meanwhile, in a private hospital in Eighfast. Austin lay motionless against the stark white sheets of the hospital bed, his angular features etched with quiet intensity. Even in repose, there was an undeniable authority about him--an unyielding tension in his jaw and the unspoken command reflected in his gaze. "Sir, our team has conducted extensive searches in the surrounding areas," Domenic Murphy, Austin's ever-loyal assistant, reported. "But so far, we've been unable to locate the young woman you described." "I see. Continue the search." Austin's eyes remained fixed on the view outside, his voice steady and resolute. The woman had saved his life, pulling him back from the brink of death. But gratitude alone wasn't driving him. There were unanswered questions--puzzling and urgent--that demanded resolution. "Understood, sir! I've also deployed a team to investigate the men in black. Early findings suggest that your activities here in Eighfast were compromised. This led directly to the ambush. There is a possibility that your uncle..." Domenic stopped abruptly as Austin raised a hand, cutting him off with an imperious gesture. "I'm already aware," Austin said curtly, his tone leaving no room for argument. "For now, prioritize locating Yancy. Time is of the essence." "Yes, sir. I will see to it that it gets done soon," Domenic replied, bowing slightly before exiting the room with silent efficiency. Austin's gaze remained on the horizon, his mind racing. As a son of the powerful Barton family in Kheley, he had ventured to Eighfast with a singular purpose: to find the mysterious doctor Yancy, the person central to his mission. Two years earlier, Austin had been stricken with a lethal poison, one so rare that even the most renowned medical experts were left confounded. Conventional treatments had failed him, and Austin had been left with a grim prognosis--his time was running out. Rumors swirled of an mysterious doctor named Yancy, reputed to hold the knowledge needed to counteract such toxins. With hope as his only guide, Austin had journeyed to Eighfast in pursuit of this elusive savior, but fate had intervened in a way he hadn't foreseen. An ambush nearly claimed his life, and his mission might have ended there had it not been for a young woman who appeared seemingly out of nowhere. Now, as the days slipped away, Austin's resolve hardened. The toxin lay dormant for now, but its threat loomed. At that moment, the door to his hospital room swung open, and Jarrod Robinson, Austin's attending physician, strode in. A set of medical reports rested in his hands, and a flicker of restrained excitement lit his face. "Mr. Barton, I have good news! The toxin levels in your system have markedly decreased since our last evaluation." Jarrod had been Austin's private physician since the onset of his illness, a prodigy in the medical field renowned for solving complex cases. Yet, even he had been powerless against the mystery of Austin's poisoning. Austin's eyes narrowed in disbelief as he sat up abruptly. "Are you certain?" "Absolutely!" Jarrod handed him the latest report, his tone barely containing his curiosity. "This is remarkable progress. Where were you treated? Could you share that information with me?" The sudden improvement in his condition was both baffling and thrilling. "I received no formal treatment," Austin said, his voice steady but charged with an undercurrent of urgency. "During the ambush, a young woman saved me. She then handed me a pill and claimed it would be of help." The memory was etched deeply in his mind. From the moment he had taken the pill, a remarkable warmth had spread through his body, reigniting his vitality in a way that defied explanation. He had no doubt--the pill had been the turning point in his survival, and the woman who provided it was the key. "Whoever she is, her knowledge goes beyond anything I've encountered--it could revolutionize treatment for cases like yours." Jarrod's eyes gleamed with curiosity. At the words, Austin's eyes flashed with a determination that was bound to find her... ...... ==== Yelena discovered that she wasn't her parents' biological child. After seeing through their ploy to trade her as a pawn in a business deal, she was sent away to her barren birthplace. There, she stumbled upon her true origins--a lineage of historic opulence. What happens next? What will her real family be like? What kind of sparks will she create with this mysterious man? 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During her search, she saved a powerful billionaire. When they met again, he pinned her against the wall. "Doctor Y," he said, "may I offer myself in exchange for another rescue?" ===== "Yelena, back so soon? Brett White may be older, but he's everything a woman could want--rich, influential, and dependable. You should be honored to have such a chance to be his wife." Sonya Roberts leaned against the doorframe, a smug smile painted on her lips. Yelena Roberts' expression hardened. "Why don't you take this 'chance' for yourself, Sonya?" Yelena's voice cut like a bl**e, her eyes narrowed with scorn. "You spiked my drink, didn't you?" Before Sonya could react, Yelena surged forward, her palm colliding sharply with Sonya's cheek. The crack of the sl*p rang through the room, slicing through Sonya's arrogance. Sonya clutched her stinging cheek, her confidence crumbling into a strangled gasp, as the fierce red imprint of Yelena's fingers seared into her skin. "Yelena! You insolent girl! Have you gone mad?" Tatiana Roberts stormed forward, her face twisted in rage and disbelief as she glared daggers at Yelena. "How dare you hit Sonya?" What an ungrateful wr**ch! After all, Yelena wasn't even a Roberts. Three months ago, a trip to the hospital changed everything. Yelena had been admitted for an injury, and what should have been a routine bl**d test cracked her world wide open. Her rare bl**d type didn't match Jonathan Roberts or his wife--her supposed parents. The revelation shattered the once happy family of three--Yelena wasn't their real daughter. Desperate to restore balance, the Roberts family launched an exhaustive search for their true daughter. They found her in Sonya, a woman who slid seamlessly into the life that had never been meant for Yelena. From that day on, Yelena became a ghost in her own home, a usurper unwittingly basking in luxuries meant for Sonya. What was once hers was now declared an injustice, an insult to Sonya's rightful claim. Jonathan and Tatiana needed to make amends with their newfound daughter. But simply cutting Yelena loose? That seemed wasteful. Brett White, a wealthy associate, had expressed a certain infatuation with Yelena. If they played their cards right, marrying her off would guarantee a five-million-dollar payoff. So, they hatched a sinister plan. A dr**ged drink. A room prepared for betrayal. They intended to hand her over like a pawn, signed and sealed. Yelena, however, had shattered their scheme, slipping away from their clutches in the nick of time. She turned to Tatiana, defiant and composed, her voice cutting through the room like a bl**e. "She dr**ged me, ridiculed me, and treated me like I was nothing. So tell me, don't you think that sl*p was well-deserved?" Sonya's face fell, her lips trembling before she plastered on a look of false hurt. "I was thinking of your future," she replied, her voice sickly sweet. "Mother told me your real family was from a poor village. Marrying Mr. White would elevate your entire existence. Surely, that's a blessing." Yet behind her feigned innocence, Sonya seethed. How dare Yelena strike her? Retribution would come. Soon. "If marrying into wealth is such a blessing, why not seize it yourself?" Yelena's voice dripped with ice as her narrowed eyes pierced straight through Sonya and Tatiana. "You ungrateful girl!" Tatiana's voice was a whip crack of fury, her eyes blazing. "How dare you even think to measure yourself against Sonya? She is leagues above you! Sonya is already engaged to Roger Ellis, heir to the prestigious Ellis family. A union that befits her status!" Sonya stepped forward, her smile syrupy sweet, but her eyes gleaming with triumph. "That's right, Yelena. Roger told me I'm his one true love, the only one he could ever imagine by his side." The reality of it all hung in the air like a suffocating fog. Yelena had been Roger's fiancee first, a plan set in motion long before Sonya's existence was uncovered. But the moment Yelena's parentage unraveled, so did her engagement. Sonya stepped into her place as effortlessly as one might slip on a perfectly tailored gown. Even Roger had seemed eager to make the swap, his affections pivoting to Sonya with startling ease. Sonya's gaze lingered on Yelena, scanning her like a predator assessing prey. The softness of her features, her luminous skin, the poised elegance that seemed intrinsic to her--Sonya hated it. Envy coiled in her chest, venomous and bitter, but she masked it behind her well-practiced smile. "Relax, Sonya. I wouldn't touch Roger with a ten-foot pole. You two are perfect for each other--a match so unfortunate it's almost poetic. Just be sure to keep your theatrics to yourselves. The rest of us don't need the headache." Yelena's lips curved into a slow, disdainful smirk. Jonathan, sensing the tension reaching a breaking point, finally stepped in. "Yelena, this is for your benefit. We found you a suitable match, someone who can secure your future. But if you insist on refusing, then so be it. Perhaps it's time you sought out your biological parents." Despite knowing the depths of Tatiana and Sonya's scheming, Jonathan didn't even try to stop them. He understood their actions were wrong, yet the undeniable truth of Yelena's origins left no room for her to remain with the Roberts family. With a resigned sigh, Jonathan pulled out an envelope containing ten thousand dollars and held it out to her. "Take this. It's the least we can do. We mistakenly brought you here from Phurg, and we believe your real parents are still there." Phurg--a desolate and impoverished region, surviving only on the charity of corporations--was a stark reminder of how far removed Yelena was from the life she had known. Tatiana scoffed, crossing her arms. "Jonathan, are you serious? We raised her for more than a decade. We owe her nothing. And now you're handing her money after she had the audacity to strike Sonya? She's nothing but an ungrateful little parasite." Ungrateful? Yelena let out a bitter, mirthless laugh, her cold chuckle slicing through the air. Their eagerness to discard her so easily, as if she were an old trinket they no longer wanted, struck her deeper than she cared to admit. When she first found out that she wasn't their biological child, she had considered leaving them with a significant parting gift, a sum of money to ensure their security. But now? That notion felt laughable. Jonathan lacked the skills to manage a business, and Tatiana was little more than a glorified spender, bleeding their resources dry. If it weren't for Yelena's behind-the-scenes efforts, the Roberts Group would have collapsed long ago. Her eyes hardened as she straightened her posture. "Thank you for the gesture, Mr. Roberts, but that won't be necessary," she said, her voice calm and resolute. Without waiting for a response, Yelena turned on her heel and ascended the staircase to pack her belongings. Sonya hastily ran after Yelena. When Yelena returned downstairs, her figure was composed, carrying nothing but a worn black bag slung over her shoulder. Her expression was unreadable, but her posture radiated defiance. Sonya trailed after her, her face a mask of false concern. "Wait, Yelena! Don't be so hasty. These clothes are practically new--you really should take them. I mean, I heard your real family is... well, struggling," she said. With a calculated flourish, Sonya reached out and grabbed Yelena's bag. The loud clatter of its contents scattering onto the marble floor seized everyone's attention. Amid the mundane items lay a gleaming Chanel bracelet, its brilliance catching the light like a beacon. Sonya let out an exaggerated gasp, her hand flying to her chest. "This... this is the bracelet Dad gave me just last week! How could it end up in your bag?" Yelena's lips curled into a cold, mocking smile. So this was Sonya's plan--a final attempt to humiliate Yelena. She glanced at Sonya, her eyes sharp as d**gers. If Sonya wanted a show, she'd give her one. "How could you, Yelena?" Tatiana shrieked, her voice trembling with outrage. "Stealing from the very people who raised you? After everything we've done for you? No wonder you turned down the ten thousand dollars--you've already helped yourself to something far more valuable! A thief within the family is the ultimate disgrace!" Jonathan's frown deepened into a stormy scowl. He stepped forward, his voice low and foreboding. "Yelena, explain yourself. Why did the bracelet I gave to Sonya end up in your bag?" Chapter 2 A Wounded Man "Jonathan! She's nothing but a thief!" Tatiana's voice cracked with urgency, her frustration boiling over. "We should call the police immediately!" Sonya, ever the picture of contrived benevolence, stepped forward with a sigh. "Dad, Mom, let's not jump to conclusions. Perhaps it was just a misunderstanding. Maybe Yelena put the bracelet in her bag without even realizing it. I'm sure she didn't mean to." "What? She didn't meant to? Are you seriously trying to tell me that the bracelet just happened to fall into her bag? This isn't just some trinket--it's an original design by Yvonne, a true masterpiece. Irreplaceable. Yelena knew exactly what it was worth. Her greed is written all over her. It's exactly as I feared! No matter how long we raised her, we can't change her nature." Tatiana's words lashed out like a whip, dri*ping with contempt. "Mom, really, let it go," Sonya chimed in, her tone soft, almost pitying. She turned to Yelena with a sigh, her lips curving into a faintly sympathetic smile. "If she loves it so much, let her keep it. It's not like we'll see her again anyway. Though I can't deny, this bracelet has always been special to me. Yvonne is my idol, and her designs mean the world to me." Yelena watched their performance in silence, her expression unreadable. Each line, each gesture, was delivered with the precision of seasoned actors. If they ever decided to give up their privileged lives, they could make a fortune in the theater. The absurdity of it all almost made her laugh. Calmly, she bent down and picked up the bracelet, letting its brilliance glint in the light. Without a word, she approached Sonya, holding the clasp up to her face. "Take a good look," Yelena said, her voice cool and composed. "Read what's engraved here." Sonya's smile wavered, her confidence slipping as she hesitated. Narrowing her eyes, she leaned in, her gaze falling on the inscription. The elegant engraving stood out clearly--Y.R. "How... how could this be?" Sonya stammered, her voice faltering as her shock momentarily slipped through her polished exterior. "Aren't you a devoted fan of Yvonne's work, Sonya? Surely, you're aware that this series was designed with the option for custom engravings--each bracelet made unique to its owner. Not only that, but as a limited edition, every single piece is registered with an identification code. One-of-a-kind, impossible to duplicate." Yelena's lips curled into a wry smile. Her tone, calm yet laced with cutting mockery, was a bl**e honed to perfection. Before Sonya could respond, the sound of hurried footsteps broke the silence. A servant descended the staircase, clutching another bracelet in her hand. "Miss Roberts, is this the bracelet you've been searching for?" The room fell into stunned silence, all eyes locking onto the bracelet in the servant's hand. Sonya, recovering quickly, plastered on a strained smile and let out an exaggerated sigh of relief. "Oh, there it is! I can't believe it was here all along. How silly of me!" Her voice dripped with forced cheer, but her mind raced, panic bubbling just beneath the surface. What happened? She had been certain she'd slipped the bracelet into Yelena's bag. Yelena's icy gaze fixed on Sonya, the corners of her lips tugging into a cool, condescending smirk. "Well, Sonya, do you still think I stole your precious bracelet? Are you sure you want to get the police involved?" Sonya's composure wavered for a split second before she replied, "This bracelet is worth a small fortune. Tell me, Yelena, how could you possibly afford something like this? Unless..." She paused, her smile twisting into something uglier. "Unless you resorted to something less... honorable. After all, some girls these days will do anything for the right price." Yelena's smile sharpened into a blade, her eyes glinting with icy disdain. "You seem awfully knowledgeable about that line of work, Sonya. Tell me--was it firsthand experience that taught you how these trades operate? Did you sell yourself before rejoining the Roberts family? Is that why you're so well-versed in the details?" Sonya's face burned crimson, her mouth opening and closing in sputtering outrage. "You... you're making baseless accusations!" "Yelena, you insolent brat!" Tatiana roared, her face contorted in rage as she slammed her fist against the armrest. "How dare you speak to Sonya like that? Get out of this house! Out of this family! And don't ever come back!" Yelena's smile grew sharper, radiant with defiance. Her eyes glittered with icy resolve. "Beg me on your knees, and still, I wouldn't step foot in this place again," she said, her voice as smooth as steel. Turning on her heel, she slung her worn black bag over her shoulder and strode toward the door. She didn't hesitate, didn't look back. For her, the Roberts family and their hollow pretenses were already a closed chapter. She felt no sadness, only relief. The charade was over. "Good riddance!" Tatiana sneered behind her, venom dripping from her words. She slumped into her seat, exhaling deeply, her lips curling into a smile of satisfaction. In her mind, the family was finally rid of an unwelcome burden. Yelena walked out into the crisp evening air, the villa shrinking behind her. Her phone buzzed in her pocket, and she answered it without breaking stride. "Yelena, I heard that they kicked you out?" Brody Hewitt's voice was sharp, brimming with agitation. "They did," Yelena replied evenly, her tone calm but resolute. There was a pause, and then Brody's voice hardened. "Those people are absolutely sh**eless!" Brody's voice crackled through the phone, brimming with indignation. "They're the definition of fair-weather friends. Without you, Jonathan Roberts would still be floundering in obscurity. They don't even realize that you were the reason for their success..." "That's enough," Yelena cut in, her voice calm but firm. "Any updates on my biological parents?" Jonathan had claimed it was a mistake at the hospital, a mix-up rather than an intentional act of abandonment. That distinction lingered in Yelena's mind, fueling her determination to find her family. Brody exhaled audibly, reining in his frustration. "Yes, the search is in progress. We should have concrete results soon." "Good," Yelena replied crisply, ending the call without another word. As she approached the main road, a sharp, metallic scent drifted on the cold breeze, cutting through the night air. She stopped mid-step, her brows furrowing as unease prickled at the back of her neck. A figure emerged from the shadows, staggering toward her. His white shirt was soaked in bl**d, the crimson staining his chest and hands. Each step he took seemed heavier than the last, his strength visibly waning. "Stop running, coward! Accept your fate!" a menacing voice shouted from behind him. Yelena's gaze darted to the source of the commotion. A group of men, dressed in black, stalked after the injured man like predators closing in on their prey. Their movements were deliberate, their intent clear. The injured man--Austin Barton--paused, swaying but defiant. His face was pallid, his breaths shallow, yet his voice held steel. "Who are you working for?" "Sh*t it! We're done talking." The man then turned to his group. "Let's finish him off already." "Wait." Another man halted abruptly, his gaze shifting to the side. "There's someone else here." Yelena froze as all eyes turned to her. Her heart sank. Perfect. Just perfect. Today had been a series of escalating disasters, and now this. It was painfully clear these men had no intention of leaving witnesses behind. The cause of her predicament stood before her--the bl**died man staggering in her direction. The leader of the group, a hulking figure with a cruel smirk, stepped forward. His eyes roamed over her, lingering too long, and his lips curled into something predatory. The men around him chuckled darkly, their laughter carrying an undercurrent of vile intent. "Don't be afraid, sweetheart," one of the men sneered, his tone mocking as his gaze lingered on her. "Once we deal with this guy, we'll take real good care of you. Whatever your pretty little heart d**ires--it'll all be yours." Yelena didn't flinch. Her eyes, cold and unyielding, met his with an intensity that froze the air between them. She uttered a single word, her voice low and commanding, cutting through the tension like a bl**e. "Leave." The men exchanged amused glances, still jeering, but their laughter faltered when they caught a glint of silver in the dim light. In her hand, a set of long, sleek needles shimmered, their tips sharp and unyielding. Yelena's lips curled into a mocking smile, her gaze sharpening into something lethal. Before any of them could process the shift in her stance, she moved. With fluid precision, her arm arced through the air, the needles slicing through the darkness like streaks of light. Each one found its mark with unerring accuracy--throats, shoulders, legs--their targets incapacitated before a single cry could escape their lips. One by one, the men crumpled to the ground, their weapons slipping from their hands. Their jeering confidence dissolved into stunned silence as realization dawned far too late. Austin, still struggling to stay upright, stared at the scene in wide-eyed disbelief. Who was this woman? Her movements had been precise, calculated--far beyond anything he had ever witnessed. She wasn't just skilled. She was extraordinary! Chapter 3 Returned To Her Real Family Yelena cast a cursory glance at the men sprawled on the ground before shifting her gaze to the injured man. His sharp features were striking--eyes dark and cold, his expression distant and stoic, as if carved from stone. Despite his pallor and obvious pain, he exuded an air of quiet resilience. She had every intention of walking away, leaving this chaotic scene behind her. Yet something in her hesitated. One of her weaknesses--her soft-heartedness--held her back. With a resigned sigh, she knelt beside the man and examined his wounds. "Thank you," Austin said, his voice low but carrying a sincere note of gratitude. "It's nothing," she replied, her tone detached, though her actions suggested otherwise. As she checked his pulse, her brows knitted together. The bl**ding, while severe, wasn't the most pressing concern. His pulse was weak and erratic--a telltale sign of poison coursing through his v*ins. Yelena opened her bag and retrieved a small porcelain bottle. Uncorking it, she sprinkled a fine medicinal powder over his bl**ding wounds. Almost instantly, the bl**ding slowed, and a soothing coolness replaced the sting of pain. She then produced a small pill and handed it to him, her voice steady. "Take this. It will counteract the poison. Without timely treatment, you won't make it much longer," Yelena said, her tone cool and matter-of-fact. Austin hesitated, his sharp eyes studying her as if trying to gauge her intentions. Yelena continued her work, efficiently bandaging his wounds. Just as she finished, the sound of footsteps reached them. She turned her head to see another group of people approaching. "Mr. Barton..." "They're with me," Austin said, exhaling in relief. His shoulders relaxed slightly, his posture easing. Yelena stood up. "Since your men are here now, I'll be on my way," she said briskly, already turning to leave. "Miss," Austincalled after her, his tone softer now. "At least tell me your name, so I can repay your kindness." "That won't be necessary," Yelena replied curtly, her voice cool but final. Before he could utter another word, she was already gone. Trouble was a luxury she couldn't afford. After being saved, Austin's sharp gaze lingered on her retreating figure, a spark of intrigue lighting up his otherwise steely expression. How had she pinpointed the poison merely by taking his pulse? Her precision, her unshaken calm, and her evident expertise--it all defied belief. One thing was certain though--as long as she remained in Eighfast, he would find her again. Yelena walked away without a glance behind her, her focus already shifting to the next step in her journey. Her thoughts were interrupted by the soft hum of an approaching car. A sleek, custom-built extended Rolls-Royce rolled to a stop in front of her, its polished exterior gleaming even under the dim streetlights. Yelena froze momentarily, as she'd only ever seen such extravagance in magazines and on television. The door opened with precise smoothness, and a middle-aged man stepped out. His movements were deliberate, his posture immaculate, and his expression carried a quiet reverence. "Miss Harris, we've finally found you! I am Sebastian Holden, the Harris family's butler. At the request of Mr. and Mrs. Harris, I am here to escort you home." "Me? Miss Harris?" Yelena asked, her voice tinged with disbelief. What was he talking about? The Roberts family had mentioned her biological parents were impoverished villagers from the remote region of Phurg. Yet here stood a man whose demeanor and the car he emerged from spoke of nothing but wealth and privilege. "Yes, you!" Sebastian confirmed, his tone measured yet warm. "You are the eldest daughter of the Harris family. Your mother got emotional and almost fainted when she learned of your existence, and your father instructed me to personally ensure your safe return. Please, come with me." Sebastian, his expression composed yet filled with deference, stepped forward and held the car door open for her. Yelena's mind raced. Could the Roberts family's investigation have been wrong--or deliberately misleading? Her bewilderment gave way to resolve. She had always intended to find her biological parents. If someone had come to take her to them, why hesitate? Taking a deep breath, she stepped into the car. The door clicked shut with a reassuring softness, and the vehicle glided away from the curb... ...... Meanwhile, in a private hospital in Eighfast. Austin lay motionless against the stark white sheets of the hospital bed, his angular features etched with quiet intensity. Even in repose, there was an undeniable authority about him--an unyielding tension in his jaw and the unspoken command reflected in his gaze. "Sir, our team has conducted extensive searches in the surrounding areas," Domenic Murphy, Austin's ever-loyal assistant, reported. "But so far, we've been unable to locate the young woman you described." "I see. Continue the search." Austin's eyes remained fixed on the view outside, his voice steady and resolute. The woman had saved his life, pulling him back from the brink of death. But gratitude alone wasn't driving him. There were unanswered questions--puzzling and urgent--that demanded resolution. "Understood, sir! I've also deployed a team to investigate the men in black. Early findings suggest that your activities here in Eighfast were compromised. This led directly to the ambush. There is a possibility that your uncle..." Domenic stopped abruptly as Austin raised a hand, cutting him off with an imperious gesture. "I'm already aware," Austin said curtly, his tone leaving no room for argument. "For now, prioritize locating Yancy. Time is of the essence." "Yes, sir. I will see to it that it gets done soon," Domenic replied, bowing slightly before exiting the room with silent efficiency. Austin's gaze remained on the horizon, his mind racing. As a son of the powerful Barton family in Kheley, he had ventured to Eighfast with a singular purpose: to find the mysterious doctor Yancy, the person central to his mission. Two years earlier, Austin had been stricken with a lethal poison, one so rare that even the most renowned medical experts were left confounded. Conventional treatments had failed him, and Austin had been left with a grim prognosis--his time was running out. Rumors swirled of an mysterious doctor named Yancy, reputed to hold the knowledge needed to counteract such toxins. With hope as his only guide, Austin had journeyed to Eighfast in pursuit of this elusive savior, but fate had intervened in a way he hadn't foreseen. An ambush nearly claimed his life, and his mission might have ended there had it not been for a young woman who appeared seemingly out of nowhere. Now, as the days slipped away, Austin's resolve hardened. The toxin lay dormant for now, but its threat loomed. At that moment, the door to his hospital room swung open, and Jarrod Robinson, Austin's attending physician, strode in. A set of medical reports rested in his hands, and a flicker of restrained excitement lit his face. "Mr. Barton, I have good news! The toxin levels in your system have markedly decreased since our last evaluation." Jarrod had been Austin's private physician since the onset of his illness, a prodigy in the medical field renowned for solving complex cases. Yet, even he had been powerless against the mystery of Austin's poisoning. Austin's eyes narrowed in disbelief as he sat up abruptly. "Are you certain?" "Absolutely!" Jarrod handed him the latest report, his tone barely containing his curiosity. "This is remarkable progress. Where were you treated? Could you share that information with me?" The sudden improvement in his condition was both baffling and thrilling. "I received no formal treatment," Austin said, his voice steady but charged with an undercurrent of urgency. "During the ambush, a young woman saved me. She then handed me a pill and claimed it would be of help." The memory was etched deeply in his mind. From the moment he had taken the pill, a remarkable warmth had spread through his body, reigniting his vitality in a way that defied explanation. He had no doubt--the pill had been the turning point in his survival, and the woman who provided it was the key. "Whoever she is, her knowledge goes beyond anything I've encountered--it could revolutionize treatment for cases like yours." Jarrod's eyes gleamed with curiosity. At the words, Austin's eyes flashed with a determination that was bound to find her... ...... ==== Yelena discovered that she wasn't her parents' biological child. After seeing through their ploy to trade her as a pawn in a business deal, she was sent away to her barren birthplace. There, she stumbled upon her true origins--a lineage of historic opulence. What happens next? What will her real family be like? What kind of sparks will she create with this mysterious man? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5&

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