My marriage to Ferris Sterling was never about love. To the world, he is the "First Blade of the Capital"—a god-tier surgeon, cold, untouchable, and dangerously arrogant. To him, I am merely a ghost in his penthouse, a lowly anesthesia intern who happens to share his bed. For three years, I played the part of the perfect, submissive wife. I waited up every night, keeping the lights on, hoping my warmth could finally melt his ice. But reality is a cruel teacher. When I begged him to stay, clutching his sleeve with trembling hands, he only gave me a chilling smirk. "It’s just a contract, Mrs. Sterling. Don’t tell me you’ve actually fallen for the act?" That was the moment I woke up. I didn't scream. I didn't cry. I simply left a signed divorce agreement on the table and walked out of his life. But now, as the winter snow buries the city, the legendary Dr. Sterling is no longer the man in control. He’s on his knees in the freezing cold, eyes bloodshot and desperate, begging for a second chance. "Please," he rasps, his tears falling onto the snow. "Don't leave me." I look at him, my heart feeling nothing but a cold breeze. "I'm sorry, Dr. Sterling. Our contract has expired, and I’m done playing my part. If you want a place in my life, you’ll have to get in line."

Chapter 1When it was time to cut the cake, the youngest girl in our department handed the first slice to Ferris, who had just rushed over.He didn't even notice my presence, treating the woman who shared his bed like a complete stranger.Gasps rippled through the room before a busybody joked, "Zoey, are you two making it official?"The girl with the cute bun blushed, stealing a shy glance at the man beside her. "Ferris rushed all the way here. He must be exhausted," she stammered.Her delicate tone, paired with the faint dimples on her cheeks, naturally evoked a sense of tender affection.She wasn't wrong. Capital General was over an hour's drive from the medical school. Ferris was dressed in a tailored suit, his bowtie impeccably knotted, making it obvious he had put real effort into his appearance.Just two hours ago, he had still been in the operating room.Now, he accepted the cake with gentlemanly grace, exuding an effortless elegance. The overhead lights caught his sharp, striking features, softening the usual aggressive edge of his gaze."I have to admit, I'm starving."His voice was deep and resonant. As he spoke, his eyes remained fixed on Zoey's face, his tone carrying a rare warmth.It was a stark contrast to the stern, unsmiling man I knew.The tips of the girl's ears turned pink as she mumbled, "Ferris, everyone is watching."Ferris slowly lifted his gaze, his eyes sweeping over the crowd before finally landing on my face, sitting diagonally across from him. "I don't think we've met," he said evenly.I curled my fingers inward, thinking to myself that even after three years of marriage, his acting skills were as flawless as ever.Then again, ours was a marriage of convenience. Even our marriage certificate had been picked up by the Sterling family's driver. It was a loveless contract, so it was entirely understandable that he refused to acknowledge my identity in public.I played along. "We met at the university anniversary last month."Zoey had been there too. The department head had asked her and a few junior students to handle the reception, and the distinguished alumni they welcomed included Ferris.Thinking back, that must have been when she and Ferris first met.By that calculation, it had only been a short month.Ferris looked entirely uninterested in my explanation and didn't bother to respond, as if he genuinely couldn't recall who I was.Seeing this, Zoey immediately smoothed things over. "You probably don't know, Ferris, but Selena is the famous beauty and top scholar of our program. She was specially recruited. She's amazing."At the words "specially recruited," a bitter pang struck my chest.Eight years ago, because of a single sentence from Ferris, I had fearlessly chosen the exact same medical specialty as him. I had studied relentlessly, all the way to the present.But eight years had passed, and we had merely become the most familiar of strangers.A soft scoff sounded, and Ferris's indifferent tone drifted to my ears. "Is she as amazing as your Ferris?"He deliberately emphasized the word "your."Though his tone wasn't heavy, it carried the arrogant disdain of a man looking down on the world.He had every right to say it. He was a natural-born medical genius who had already become the second-in-command of the Department of Neurosurgery at the highly competitive Capital General at a young age. He was the idolized role model of all the junior students.A hardworking grinder like me naturally couldn't compare.Zoey knew this too. Her doe-like eyes darted between me and Ferris as she cautiously asked, "Ferris, did I say something wrong..."Before she could finish, the man's long, elegant index finger tapped lightly against the tip of the party hat on the girl's head.His affection was undeniable.More cheers erupted, and a loud, lively atmosphere filled the entire private room, but my heart sank inch by inch to the bottom of the ocean.Only then did I realize that this man I had chased for eight years—my own husband—had such a charming, playful side.He remembered that today was her birthday, braving the chill of early winter to rush over, yet he didn't remember that today was also his wife's birthday. Mine.I left early, slipping away amidst the laughter and cheers.It was late at night by the time I returned home.Rain had started falling outside at some point, and the rising mist condensed into a thin layer of fog on the windows, reflecting my lonely, desolate silhouette.The house was massive. The Riverside Penthouse boasted top-tier living conditions. In the astronomically expensive real estate market of Port Capital, it was the dream home for countless people.Yet, in this luxurious and comfortable apartment, I was almost always the only one here.As the clock's hands quietly swept past midnight, I knew Ferris wouldn't be coming back tonight either.Then, the sudden click of the front door opening shattered the silence.I glanced over in confusion, only to see a man's unsteady silhouette approaching.Ferris had actually been drinking.When his strong arm wrapped around my waist, he didn't even give me a chance to react before pressing his entire weight against me.The aggression was overwhelming.I stumbled back two steps but was pinned against the floor-to-ceiling windows. The crisp scent of cedarwood, mingled with Ferris's unique masculine musk, filled my senses, making my chest tighten with a sudden, restless heat."Is Dr. Sterling hungry?" I heard the bitter mockery and underlying grievance in my own voice.By my count, we hadn't slept together in over half a year.The reason he was suddenly so in the mood tonight was blatantly obvious."It's been so long. Haven't you missed me?"His voice was a low, gravelly whisper, his breath ghosting over my ear like a trail of fire, sending an electric shiver straight down my spine.My mind involuntarily flashed back to our honeymoon phase, remembering how this seemingly refined and aloof man used to completely dominate me in bed. My defiance instantly weakened by half.Taking advantage of my hesitation, Ferris cupped my face with one hand, his kiss demanding and ruthless as he parted my lips. When I didn't respond, he murmured against my mouth, "Be a good girl, Selena."He kissed me with desperate hunger, completely shedding his usual polished demeanor.It tasted of pure possession.And his voice held a dark, seductive coaxing.It gave me the fleeting illusion that I was loved.But the truth was, he didn't even remember my birthday."Focus," he ordered as his mouth sealed over mine. His heavy breathing filled my ears, and he suddenly tightened his grip. "Hold me."I watched our silhouettes merge and tangle against the floor-to-ceiling glass in the dim light.After he found his release, the man seamlessly reverted to his emotionless, ascetic self.When I stepped out of the bathroom, he was standing by the window on a phone call. He had changed into a fresh suit—a crisp white shirt and slacks that highlighted his broad shoulders and narrow waist, making him look exceptionally tall and imposing.His voice was as deep and commanding as ever."Don't worry, Lucille. The matter of having a child is already on the agenda."It was actually my mother, Lucille.She had always been the vanguard of the "give me a grandchild" brigade.Day and night, without fail.But what did "on the agenda" mean? Did Ferris actually plan on having a baby with me?I was just about to speak up when my eyes met his across the room.With just one glance, I saw the undeniable disgust in his gaze.A moment later, he ended the call.We stared at each other from opposite sides of the room. I was just about to apologize for my mother calling him when I heard him say, "I have a meeting first thing in the morning. I'm heading back to the department. Also..."He paused, glancing toward the vanity, and said flatly, "Don't forget to take the pill."With that, he walked out of the bedroom. I slowly turned my head toward the vanity and immediately spotted the morning-after pill resting on the surface.My heart inexplicably skipped a beat before hammering violently against my ribs, a suffocating wave of despair rushing to my throat.I should have known. Ferris had been forced to marry me; why would he ever allow me to carry the Sterling family's heir?Besides, there were only three months left until our three-year contract officially expired.Three years ago, my father had been caught in a violent dispute at the hospital and accidentally taken two stab wounds meant for the newly appointed Ferris.Grateful for his bravery, the Sterling family promised a handsome reward, but to everyone's shock, my father requested a marriage alliance between our families.The Sterlings were one of the most prominent, elite families in all of Port Capital, while my father was merely a manager at a small pharmaceutical company. In the eyes of the entire Sterling family, this marriage proposal was nothing but emotional blackmail.I wasn't there when it happened. When Ferris tracked me down, he was holding a prenuptial agreement, his eyes filled with a cold, condescending detachment. "A three-year marriage. It terminates automatically upon expiration. If there are no objections, I'll see you at City Hall tomorrow morning."The man I had dreamed of day and night was standing right in front of me. Like someone possessed, I signed the agreement.But I failed to notice the very first clause printed clearly on the page: "Never harbor any illusions that we are a real married couple."Tears soaked the paper as I stared at the word "couple" on the contract, a bitter smile tugging at the corners of my mouth.So, Ferris, what exactly were these last three years to us?I didn't sleep a wink. The loud ringing of my phone snapped me back to reality.The caller ID displayed a landline number."Hello, Ms. Hayes. This is the HR Department at Capital General Hospital. Please come in for the written exam at 10 AM tomorrow. I've sent the specific location to your phone."Capital General HR.Only then did I remember that a few days ago, my master's advisor, Professor Lucas, had recommended a few of us for an interview at Capital General. Word was that the entire medical school only received six slots, and to my surprise, I was one of them.Capital General was where Ferris shined. It was the dream workplace of every medical student and a place where I had once fantasized about commuting to work alongside him.Looking back, it had all been my own pathetic wishful thinking.It was laughable, really."Ms. Hayes, will you be able to make it on time tomorrow morning?"The reminder caught my attention. I glanced at the prenuptial agreement, then at the morning-after pill sitting next to it. After a two-second hesitation, I replied, "Yes, I'll be there right on time."I figured, since love was slipping through my fingers, I had better secure my career.I spent the entire day preparing for the written exam. But just as dinner approached, my mother-in-law, Vivian Vance, showed up unannounced.She pushed the door open, carrying a gift box of fertility supplements. Glancing around the room, she asked, "Ferris isn't coming home tonight?""He's on call tonight," I answered smoothly, having memorized the shift schedule on the calendar by heart. "He'll be back tomorrow morning."That last part was a lie I told to comfort myself.Vivian's gaze lingered briefly on my flat stomach before she reminded me, "Aren't you ovulating these next couple of days? You need to be more proactive as a wife. Otherwise, when will his father and I ever get to hold our grandchild?"I had been hearing this speech since my second year of marriage to Ferris. In the past, my love for him had given me the strength to endure it, but today, the words grated painfully on my nerves.Because the truth was, I was never the one refusing to have a baby."By the way," Vivian said, sitting perfectly upright on the sofa as her eyes fell on the medical books scattered across the table. Her tone shifted. "I heard you're on the list for the written exam at Capital General tomorrow morning?"I knew she was always well-informed, but I hadn't expected her to know about my exam.I nodded, but just as I opened my mouth to explain, she cut me off. "Cancel it. It's not like the Sterlings can't afford to provide for you. Your primary duty right now is to give this family an heir. Everything else needs to take a back seat."She spoke with absolute certainty, as if throwing away the exam was the most trivial thing in the world.Everyone knew how rare an opportunity at Capital General was. Even for a lowly internship, only three or four out of a hundred applicants were accepted. Just securing a spot for the written exam was incredibly difficult.I hadn't even tried yet, and based solely on a single sentence from Vivian, I was supposed to give it all up?No. I couldn't do it.I could no longer be the blindly devoted fool who put Ferris above everything else. It was time to wake up from this fabricated dream of a marriage I had spun for myself."Vivian," I heard myself say, my tone gentle yet firm. "I am going to take that exam tomorrow morning."I wasn't discussing it with her; I was stating my decision as a hard fact.Vivian clearly hadn't expected me to defy her. After a brief moment of shock, she stared at me in disbelief. Then, looking past me, she let out a soft scoff. "Ferris, did you hear that?"I slowly turned around and immediately spotted Ferris standing in the entryway.Tiny drops of water clung to the ends of his soft hair, and he still carried the damp chill of the winter night.But wasn't he on call? Why had he suddenly come back?Chapter 2When it was time to cut the cake, the youngest girl in our department handed the first slice to Ferris, who had just rushed over.He didn't even notice my presence, treating the woman who shared his bed like a complete stranger.Gasps rippled through the room before a busybody joked, "Zoey, are you two making it official?"The girl with the cute bun blushed, stealing a shy glance at the man beside her. "Ferris rushed all the way here. He must be exhausted," she stammered.Her delicate tone, paired with the faint dimples on her cheeks, naturally evoked a sense of tender affection.She wasn't wrong. Capital General was over an hour's drive from the medical school. Ferris was dressed in a tailored suit, his bowtie impeccably knotted, making it obvious he had put real effort into his appearance.Just two hours ago, he had still been in the operating room.Now, he accepted the cake with gentlemanly grace, exuding an effortless elegance. The overhead lights caught his sharp, striking features, softening the usual aggressive edge of his gaze."I have to admit, I'm starving."His voice was deep and resonant. As he spoke, his eyes remained fixed on Zoey's face, his tone carrying a rare warmth.It was a stark contrast to the stern, unsmiling man I knew.The tips of the girl's ears turned pink as she mumbled, "Ferris, everyone is watching."Ferris slowly lifted his gaze, his eyes sweeping over the crowd before finally landing on my face, sitting diagonally across from him. "I don't think we've met," he said evenly.I curled my fingers inward, thinking to myself that even after three years of marriage, his acting skills were as flawless as ever.Then again, ours was a marriage of convenience. Even our marriage certificate had been picked up by the Sterling family's driver. It was a loveless contract, so it was entirely understandable that he refused to acknowledge my identity in public.I played along. "We met at the university anniversary last month."Zoey had been there too. The department head had asked her and a few junior students to handle the reception, and the distinguished alumni they welcomed included Ferris.Thinking back, that must have been when she and Ferris first met.By that calculation, it had only been a short month.Ferris looked entirely uninterested in my explanation and didn't bother to respond, as if he genuinely couldn't recall who I was.Seeing this, Zoey immediately smoothed things over. "You probably don't know, Ferris, but Selena is the famous beauty and top scholar of our program. She was specially recruited. She's amazing."At the words "specially recruited," a bitter pang struck my chest.Eight years ago, because of a single sentence from Ferris, I had fearlessly chosen the exact same medical specialty as him. I had studied relentlessly, all the way to the present.But eight years had passed, and we had merely become the most familiar of strangers.A soft scoff sounded, and Ferris's indifferent tone drifted to my ears. "Is she as amazing as your Ferris?"He deliberately emphasized the word "your."Though his tone wasn't heavy, it carried the arrogant disdain of a man looking down on the world.He had every right to say it. He was a natural-born medical genius who had already become the second-in-command of the Department of Neurosurgery at the highly competitive Capital General at a young age. He was the idolized role model of all the junior students.A hardworking grinder like me naturally couldn't compare.Zoey knew this too. Her doe-like eyes darted between me and Ferris as she cautiously asked, "Ferris, did I say something wrong..."Before she could finish, the man's long, elegant index finger tapped lightly against the tip of the party hat on the girl's head.His affection was undeniable.More cheers erupted, and a loud, lively atmosphere filled the entire private room, but my heart sank inch by inch to the bottom of the ocean.Only then did I realize that this man I had chased for eight years—my own husband—had such a charming, playful side.He remembered that today was her birthday, braving the chill of early winter to rush over, yet he didn't remember that today was also his wife's birthday. Mine.I left early, slipping away amidst the laughter and cheers.It was late at night by the time I returned home.Rain had started falling outside at some point, and the rising mist condensed into a thin layer of fog on the windows, reflecting my lonely, desolate silhouette.The house was massive. The Riverside Penthouse boasted top-tier living conditions. In the astronomically expensive real estate market of Port Capital, it was the dream home for countless people.Yet, in this luxurious and comfortable apartment, I was almost always the only one here.As the clock's hands quietly swept past midnight, I knew Ferris wouldn't be coming back tonight either.Then, the sudden click of the front door opening shattered the silence.I glanced over in confusion, only to see a man's unsteady silhouette approaching.Ferris had actually been drinking.When his strong arm wrapped around my waist, he didn't even give me a chance to react before pressing his entire weight against me.The aggression was overwhelming.I stumbled back two steps but was pinned against the floor-to-ceiling windows. The crisp scent of cedarwood, mingled with Ferris's unique masculine musk, filled my senses, making my chest tighten with a sudden, restless heat."Is Dr. Sterling hungry?" I heard the bitter mockery and underlying grievance in my own voice.By my count, we hadn't slept together in over half a year.The reason he was suddenly so in the mood tonight was blatantly obvious."It's been so long. Haven't you missed me?"His voice was a low, gravelly whisper, his breath ghosting over my ear like a trail of fire, sending an electric shiver straight down my spine.My mind involuntarily flashed back to our honeymoon phase, remembering how this seemingly refined and aloof man used to completely dominate me in bed. My defiance instantly weakened by half.Taking advantage of my hesitation, Ferris cupped my face with one hand, his kiss demanding and ruthless as he parted my lips. When I didn't respond, he murmured against my mouth, "Be a good girl, Selena."He kissed me with desperate hunger, completely shedding his usual polished demeanor.It tasted of pure possession.And his voice held a dark, seductive coaxing.It gave me the fleeting illusion that I was loved.But the truth was, he didn't even remember my birthday."Focus," he ordered as his mouth sealed over mine. His heavy breathing filled my ears, and he suddenly tightened his grip. "Hold me."I watched our silhouettes merge and tangle against the floor-to-ceiling glass in the dim light.After he found his release, the man seamlessly reverted to his emotionless, ascetic self.When I stepped out of the bathroom, he was standing by the window on a phone call. He had changed into a fresh suit—a crisp white shirt and slacks that highlighted his broad shoulders and narrow waist, making him look exceptionally tall and imposing.His voice was as deep and commanding as ever."Don't worry, Lucille. The matter of having a child is already on the agenda."It was actually my mother, Lucille.She had always been the vanguard of the "give me a grandchild" brigade.Day and night, without fail.But what did "on the agenda" mean? Did Ferris actually plan on having a baby with me?I was just about to speak up when my eyes met his across the room.With just one glance, I saw the undeniable disgust in his gaze.A moment later, he ended the call.We stared at each other from opposite sides of the room. I was just about to apologize for my mother calling him when I heard him say, "I have a meeting first thing in the morning. I'm heading back to the department. Also..."He paused, glancing toward the vanity, and said flatly, "Don't forget to take the pill."With that, he walked out of the bedroom. I slowly turned my head toward the vanity and immediately spotted the morning-after pill resting on the surface.My heart inexplicably skipped a beat before hammering violently against my ribs, a suffocating wave of despair rushing to my throat.I should have known. Ferris had been forced to marry me; why would he ever allow me to carry the Sterling family's heir?Besides, there were only three months left until our three-year contract officially expired.Three years ago, my father had been caught in a violent dispute at the hospital and accidentally taken two stab wounds meant for the newly appointed Ferris.Grateful for his bravery, the Sterling family promised a handsome reward, but to everyone's shock, my father requested a marriage alliance between our families.The Sterlings were one of the most prominent, elite families in all of Port Capital, while my father was merely a manager at a small pharmaceutical company. In the eyes of the entire Sterling family, this marriage proposal was nothing but emotional blackmail.I wasn't there when it happened. When Ferris tracked me down, he was holding a prenuptial agreement, his eyes filled with a cold, condescending detachment. "A three-year marriage. It terminates automatically upon expiration. If there are no objections, I'll see you at City Hall tomorrow morning."The man I had dreamed of day and night was standing right in front of me. Like someone possessed, I signed the agreement.But I failed to notice the very first clause printed clearly on the page: "Never harbor any illusions that we are a real married couple."Tears soaked the paper as I stared at the word "couple" on the contract, a bitter smile tugging at the corners of my mouth.So, Ferris, what exactly were these last three years to us?I didn't sleep a wink. The loud ringing of my phone snapped me back to reality.The caller ID displayed a landline number."Hello, Ms. Hayes. This is the HR Department at Capital General Hospital. Please come in for the written exam at 10 AM tomorrow. I've sent the specific location to your phone."Capital General HR.Only then did I remember that a few days ago, my master's advisor, Professor Lucas, had recommended a few of us for an interview at Capital General. Word was that the entire medical school only received six slots, and to my surprise, I was one of them.Capital General was where Ferris shined. It was the dream workplace of every medical student and a place where I had once fantasized about commuting to work alongside him.Looking back, it had all been my own pathetic wishful thinking.It was laughable, really."Ms. Hayes, will you be able to make it on time tomorrow morning?"The reminder caught my attention. I glanced at the prenuptial agreement, then at the morning-after pill sitting next to it. After a two-second hesitation, I replied, "Yes, I'll be there right on time."I figured, since love was slipping through my fingers, I had better secure my career.I spent the entire day preparing for the written exam. But just as dinner approached, my mother-in-law, Vivian Vance, showed up unannounced.She pushed the door open, carrying a gift box of fertility supplements. Glancing around the room, she asked, "Ferris isn't coming home tonight?""He's on call tonight," I answered smoothly, having memorized the shift schedule on the calendar by heart. "He'll be back tomorrow morning."That last part was a lie I told to comfort myself.Vivian's gaze lingered briefly on my flat stomach before she reminded me, "Aren't you ovulating these next couple of days? You need to be more proactive as a wife. Otherwise, when will his father and I ever get to hold our grandchild?"I had been hearing this speech since my second year of marriage to Ferris. In the past, my love for him had given me the strength to endure it, but today, the words grated painfully on my nerves.Because the truth was, I was never the one refusing to have a baby."By the way," Vivian said, sitting perfectly upright on the sofa as her eyes fell on the medical books scattered across the table. Her tone shifted. "I heard you're on the list for the written exam at Capital General tomorrow morning?"I knew she was always well-informed, but I hadn't expected her to know about my exam.I nodded, but just as I opened my mouth to explain, she cut me off. "Cancel it. It's not like the Sterlings can't afford to provide for you. Your primary duty right now is to give this family an heir. Everything else needs to take a back seat."She spoke with absolute certainty, as if throwing away the exam was the most trivial thing in the world.Everyone knew how rare an opportunity at Capital General was. Even for a lowly internship, only three or four out of a hundred applicants were accepted. Just securing a spot for the written exam was incredibly difficult.I hadn't even tried yet, and based solely on a single sentence from Vivian, I was supposed to give it all up?No. I couldn't do it.I could no longer be the blindly devoted fool who put Ferris above everything else. It was time to wake up from this fabricated dream of a marriage I had spun for myself."Vivian," I heard myself say, my tone gentle yet firm. "I am going to take that exam tomorrow morning."I wasn't discussing it with her; I was stating my decision as a hard fact.Vivian clearly hadn't expected me to defy her. After a brief moment of shock, she stared at me in disbelief. Then, looking past me, she let out a soft scoff. "Ferris, did you hear that?"I slowly turned around and immediately spotted Ferris standing in the entryway.Tiny drops of water clung to the ends of his soft hair, and he still carried the damp chill of the winter night.But wasn't he on call? Why had he suddenly come back?Chapter 3When it was time to cut the cake, the youngest girl in our department handed the first slice to Ferris, who had just rushed over.He didn't even notice my presence, treating the woman who shared his bed like a complete stranger.Gasps rippled through the room before a busybody joked, "Zoey, are you two making it official?"The girl with the cute bun blushed, stealing a shy glance at the man beside her. "Ferris rushed all the way here. He must be exhausted," she stammered.Her delicate tone, paired with the faint dimples on her cheeks, naturally evoked a sense of tender affection.She wasn't wrong. Capital General was over an hour's drive from the medical school. Ferris was dressed in a tailored suit, his bowtie impeccably knotted, making it obvious he had put real effort into his appearance.Just two hours ago, he had still been in the operating room.Now, he accepted the cake with gentlemanly grace, exuding an effortless elegance. The overhead lights caught his sharp, striking features, softening the usual aggressive edge of his gaze."I have to admit, I'm starving."His voice was deep and resonant. As he spoke, his eyes remained fixed on Zoey's face, his tone carrying a rare warmth.It was a stark contrast to the stern, unsmiling man I knew.The tips of the girl's ears turned pink as she mumbled, "Ferris, everyone is watching."Ferris slowly lifted his gaze, his eyes sweeping over the crowd before finally landing on my face, sitting diagonally across from him. "I don't think we've met," he said evenly.I curled my fingers inward, thinking to myself that even after three years of marriage, his acting skills were as flawless as ever.Then again, ours was a marriage of convenience. Even our marriage certificate had been picked up by the Sterling family's driver. It was a loveless contract, so it was entirely understandable that he refused to acknowledge my identity in public.I played along. "We met at the university anniversary last month."Zoey had been there too. The department head had asked her and a few junior students to handle the reception, and the distinguished alumni they welcomed included Ferris.Thinking back, that must have been when she and Ferris first met.By that calculation, it had only been a short month.Ferris looked entirely uninterested in my explanation and didn't bother to respond, as if he genuinely couldn't recall who I was.Seeing this, Zoey immediately smoothed things over. "You probably don't know, Ferris, but Selena is the famous beauty and top scholar of our program. She was specially recruited. She's amazing."At the words "specially recruited," a bitter pang struck my chest.Eight years ago, because of a single sentence from Ferris, I had fearlessly chosen the exact same medical specialty as him. I had studied relentlessly, all the way to the present.But eight years had passed, and we had merely become the most familiar of strangers.A soft scoff sounded, and Ferris's indifferent tone drifted to my ears. "Is she as amazing as your Ferris?"He deliberately emphasized the word "your."Though his tone wasn't heavy, it carried the arrogant disdain of a man looking down on the world.He had every right to say it. He was a natural-born medical genius who had already become the second-in-command of the Department of Neurosurgery at the highly competitive Capital General at a young age. He was the idolized role model of all the junior students.A hardworking grinder like me naturally couldn't compare.Zoey knew this too. Her doe-like eyes darted between me and Ferris as she cautiously asked, "Ferris, did I say something wrong..."Before she could finish, the man's long, elegant index finger tapped lightly against the tip of the party hat on the girl's head.His affection was undeniable.More cheers erupted, and a loud, lively atmosphere filled the entire private room, but my heart sank inch by inch to the bottom of the ocean.Only then did I realize that this man I had chased for eight years—my own husband—had such a charming, playful side.He remembered that today was her birthday, braving the chill of early winter to rush over, yet he didn't remember that today was also his wife's birthday. Mine.I left early, slipping away amidst the laughter and cheers.It was late at night by the time I returned home.Rain had started falling outside at some point, and the rising mist condensed into a thin layer of fog on the windows, reflecting my lonely, desolate silhouette.The house was massive. The Riverside Penthouse boasted top-tier living conditions. In the astronomically expensive real estate market of Port Capital, it was the dream home for countless people.Yet, in this luxurious and comfortable apartment, I was almost always the only one here.As the clock's hands quietly swept past midnight, I knew Ferris wouldn't be coming back tonight either.Then, the sudden click of the front door opening shattered the silence.I glanced over in confusion, only to see a man's unsteady silhouette approaching.Ferris had actually been drinking.When his strong arm wrapped around my waist, he didn't even give me a chance to react before pressing his entire weight against me.The aggression was overwhelming.I stumbled back two steps but was pinned against the floor-to-ceiling windows. The crisp scent of cedarwood, mingled with Ferris's unique masculine musk, filled my senses, making my chest tighten with a sudden, restless heat."Is Dr. Sterling hungry?" I heard the bitter mockery and underlying grievance in my own voice.By my count, we hadn't slept together in over half a year.The reason he was suddenly so in the mood tonight was blatantly obvious."It's been so long. Haven't you missed me?"His voice was a low, gravelly whisper, his breath ghosting over my ear like a trail of fire, sending an electric shiver straight down my spine.My mind involuntarily flashed back to our honeymoon phase, remembering how this seemingly refined and aloof man used to completely dominate me in bed. My defiance instantly weakened by half.Taking advantage of my hesitation, Ferris cupped my face with one hand, his kiss demanding and ruthless as he parted my lips. When I didn't respond, he murmured against my mouth, "Be a good girl, Selena."He kissed me with desperate hunger, completely shedding his usual polished demeanor.It tasted of pure possession.And his voice held a dark, seductive coaxing.It gave me the fleeting illusion that I was loved.But the truth was, he didn't even remember my birthday."Focus," he ordered as his mouth sealed over mine. His heavy breathing filled my ears, and he suddenly tightened his grip. "Hold me."I watched our silhouettes merge and tangle against the floor-to-ceiling glass in the dim light.After he found his release, the man seamlessly reverted to his emotionless, ascetic self.When I stepped out of the bathroom, he was standing by the window on a phone call. He had changed into a fresh suit—a crisp white shirt and slacks that highlighted his broad shoulders and narrow waist, making him look exceptionally tall and imposing.His voice was as deep and commanding as ever."Don't worry, Lucille. The matter of having a child is already on the agenda."It was actually my mother, Lucille.She had always been the vanguard of the "give me a grandchild" brigade.Day and night, without fail.But what did "on the agenda" mean? Did Ferris actually plan on having a baby with me?I was just about to speak up when my eyes met his across the room.With just one glance, I saw the undeniable disgust in his gaze.A moment later, he ended the call.We stared at each other from opposite sides of the room. I was just about to apologize for my mother calling him when I heard him say, "I have a meeting first thing in the morning. I'm heading back to the department. Also..."He paused, glancing toward the vanity, and said flatly, "Don't forget to take the pill."With that, he walked out of the bedroom. I slowly turned my head toward the vanity and immediately spotted the morning-after pill resting on the surface.My heart inexplicably skipped a beat before hammering violently against my ribs, a suffocating wave of despair rushing to my throat.I should have known. Ferris had been forced to marry me; why would he ever allow me to carry the Sterling family's heir?Besides, there were only three months left until our three-year contract officially expired.Three years ago, my father had been caught in a violent dispute at the hospital and accidentally taken two stab wounds meant for the newly appointed Ferris.Grateful for his bravery, the Sterling family promised a handsome reward, but to everyone's shock, my father requested a marriage alliance between our families.The Sterlings were one of the most prominent, elite families in all of Port Capital, while my father was merely a manager at a small pharmaceutical company. In the eyes of the entire Sterling family, this marriage proposal was nothing but emotional blackmail.I wasn't there when it happened. When Ferris tracked me down, he was holding a prenuptial agreement, his eyes filled with a cold, condescending detachment. "A three-year marriage. It terminates automatically upon expiration. If there are no objections, I'll see you at City Hall tomorrow morning."The man I had dreamed of day and night was standing right in front of me. Like someone possessed, I signed the agreement.But I failed to notice the very first clause printed clearly on the page: "Never harbor any illusions that we are a real married couple."Tears soaked the paper as I stared at the word "couple" on the contract, a bitter smile tugging at the corners of my mouth.So, Ferris, what exactly were these last three years to us?I didn't sleep a wink. The loud ringing of my phone snapped me back to reality.The caller ID displayed a landline number."Hello, Ms. Hayes. This is the HR Department at Capital General Hospital. Please come in for the written exam at 10 AM tomorrow. I've sent the specific location to your phone."Capital General HR.Only then did I remember that a few days ago, my master's advisor, Professor Lucas, had recommended a few of us for an interview at Capital General. Word was that the entire medical school only received six slots, and to my surprise, I was one of them.Capital General was where Ferris shined. It was the dream workplace of every medical student and a place where I had once fantasized about commuting to work alongside him.Looking back, it had all been my own pathetic wishful thinking.It was laughable, really."Ms. Hayes, will you be able to make it on time tomorrow morning?"The reminder caught my attention. I glanced at the prenuptial agreement, then at the morning-after pill sitting next to it. After a two-second hesitation, I replied, "Yes, I'll be there right on time."I figured, since love was slipping through my fingers, I had better secure my career.I spent the entire day preparing for the written exam. But just as dinner approached, my mother-in-law, Vivian Vance, showed up unannounced.She pushed the door open, carrying a gift box of fertility supplements. Glancing around the room, she asked, "Ferris isn't coming home tonight?""He's on call tonight," I answered smoothly, having memorized the shift schedule on the calendar by heart. "He'll be back tomorrow morning."That last part was a lie I told to comfort myself.Vivian's gaze lingered briefly on my flat stomach before she reminded me, "Aren't you ovulating these next couple of days? You need to be more proactive as a wife. Otherwise, when will his father and I ever get to hold our grandchild?"I had been hearing this speech since my second year of marriage to Ferris. In the past, my love for him had given me the strength to endure it, but today, the words grated painfully on my nerves.Because the truth was, I was never the one refusing to have a baby."By the way," Vivian said, sitting perfectly upright on the sofa as her eyes fell on the medical books scattered across the table. Her tone shifted. "I heard you're on the list for the written exam at Capital General tomorrow morning?"I knew she was always well-informed, but I hadn't expected her to know about my exam.I nodded, but just as I opened my mouth to explain, she cut me off. "Cancel it. It's not like the Sterlings can't afford to provide for you. Your primary duty right now is to give this family an heir. Everything else needs to take a back seat."She spoke with absolute certainty, as if throwing away the exam was the most trivial thing in the world.Everyone knew how rare an opportunity at Capital General was. Even for a lowly internship, only three or four out of a hundred applicants were accepted. Just securing a spot for the written exam was incredibly difficult.I hadn't even tried yet, and based solely on a single sentence from Vivian, I was supposed to give it all up?No. I couldn't do it.I could no longer be the blindly devoted fool who put Ferris above everything else. It was time to wake up from this fabricated dream of a marriage I had spun for myself."Vivian," I heard myself say, my tone gentle yet firm. "I am going to take that exam tomorrow morning."I wasn't discussing it with her; I was stating my decision as a hard fact.Vivian clearly hadn't expected me to defy her. After a brief moment of shock, she stared at me in disbelief. Then, looking past me, she let out a soft scoff. "Ferris, did you hear that?"I slowly turned around and immediately spotted Ferris standing in the entryway.Tiny drops of water clung to the ends of his soft hair, and he still carried the damp chill of the winter night.But wasn't he on call? Why had he suddenly come back?