To atone for a crime she didn't commit, Willow Quinn became the "good luck" bride for the cold-blooded CEO, Harrison Prescott. She supported him through his darkest hours, helping him rise to the pinnacle of power, only to be branded a murderer and a sinner in return. Their only night of passion was a nightmare—he whispered another woman’s name while holding her close. When Willow discovered she was pregnant, Harrison was a continent away, comforting his "true love." His only words to her were cold and lethal: "You’re not worthy of bearing my child." Heartbroken and hollow, Willow swallowed the bitterness, hid her pregnancy, and chose to vanish. On the day his "true love" returned, she handed him the divorce papers. "You can leave," he sneered, looking down at her from his ivory tower. "But don't expect a single penny from me." "I’ve paid my debt," Willow replied, her eyes cold. "I don't want your money, and I certainly don't want your love." He thought she would crawl back. He was wrong. Five years later, the "fallen genius" everyone pitied has returned as a billionaire tech mogul, a goddess of the industry who commands the world’s attention. By her side is a brilliant, handsome boy who shares the CEO's very eyes. As the world mocks her for being a single mother, the once-arrogant Harrison crashes a high-profile gala. In front of the cameras and the elite, the ruthless tycoon drops to his knees, his eyes bloodshot and pleading: "Honey, please... don't leave me. Let me take you and our son home."

Chapter 1It was a family dinner.Harrison Prescott’s first love had returned to the country, and everyone was buzzing about it.As his wife, Willow Quinn remained silent, staring blankly at the food on her plate.Her mother-in-law suddenly shifted the topic. "Willow, how many years has your murderer ex-boyfriend been in prison? He must be getting out soon, right?"Willow masked the humiliation in her eyes. "Four years. He gets out next month."Her mother-in-law's tone was deeply pointed. "Time flies. It's already been four years since you and Harrison got married."Willow understood the unspoken implication.Four years ago, Julian York's brakes had failed, causing a head-on collision with Harrison's car.One person died, and two were severely injured.Julian was sent to prison.To secure a letter of forgiveness from the Prescott family and advocate for a lighter sentence, Willow had stood stubbornly outside the Prescott estate in a sweltering heatwave until her legs gave out, ultimately collapsing onto the pavement.At the time, the Prescott family had hired a psychic who claimed Harrison wouldn't survive his critical injuries unless a bride was brought in to ward off the grim reaper.So, the Prescotts arranged for Willow to marry him on his deathbed.But no one expected that on the night of the wedding, Harrison would actually wake up from his coma.The Prescotts decided that Willow brought good luck, so they allowed her to stay.From that day on, Willow worked tirelessly day and night to care for her wheelchair-bound husband, helping Harrison successfully take over the family business and rise to become a dominant force in the corporate world.Now, four years later, with the Prescott family's preferred bride back in the picture, this marriage had reached its expiration date.Willow spoke up calmly. "I've already had a lawyer draft the divorce papers. I'll bring them to you to look over shortly."Her mother-in-law frowned and scoffed.Willow quickly corrected herself. "My apologies, Mrs. Prescott."Just as the words left her mouth, Harrison returned.He was tall and imposing, dressed in a high-quality black wool coat that seemed to carry the winter frost with it. The beautifully wrapped pink gift box in his hand was particularly glaring.It was clearly a gift from a woman.Harrison and Willow's eyes met for a split second before they seamlessly looked away, and he took a seat across the dining table.From Willow's angle, his unfairly handsome profile looked colder than the edge of a blade.Intangible. Unreachable.His mother asked, "Harrison, why didn't you bring Cecilia back with you?"Harrison's expression was indifferent. "She went back to the Jardine estate.""Then you must have seen her parents. Did you bring up the marriage arrangement between our two families?"The entire table instantly fell silent, waiting for Harrison's response.Willow's phone buzzed, and the words 'Eddy' lighting up the screen tugged at her heart.Everyone turned to look at her. There was no outright scolding, only cold stares.A condescending, absolute indifference."Excuse me, I'm finished eating. I'm going back to my room."Willow stood up, but before she could head upstairs, her mother-in-law pressed the issue."Harrison, now that Cecilia is back, shouldn't you finally divorce Willow?"Harrison remained silent, his expression turning even colder than before.It was a tacit agreement.Willow gripped her phone tightly and quickened her pace, fleeing the room....Inside the bedroom.Willow answered her son's video call."Mommy, Mommy, when are you coming home? Eddy misses you so much."Tears welled up in the three-year-old boy's eyes. Strawberry jam was smeared around his mouth; he thought it was so delicious that he desperately wanted to share it with his mom, almost crying from the urgency.Willow's heart melted, and she coaxed him gently, "Mommy is still working for her bald boss. As soon as I have a day off, I'll come home to see my sweet boy."Eddy wiped his face, turning into a little messy kitten. "The bald boss is a meanie! Keeping my mommy away!"Willow couldn't help but laugh and played along. "You're right, Mommy will just quit and spend all her time at home with you."Her best friend, Sienna Sutton, walked into the frame wearing a sheet mask."How did it go, Willa? Did you talk to Harrison?"Footsteps approached the door. Before Willow could answer, she hurriedly hung up the call.Harrison pushed the door open. He was always cold toward Willow, but right now he seemed exceptionally distant, a subtle rage simmering beneath the surface.He stood there without a word, radiating a chilling aura.Willow stood up to greet him, offering a soft smile. "Harrison, are you going to shower? Let me help you."She reached up to help unbutton his coat.Harrison looked down at her.Up close, Willow's features were stunning. She had a delicate nose, perfect facial structure, and a radiant, luminous complexion without a single flaw. She was undeniably beautiful.But that endlessly calm little face of hers was incredibly irritating to him.He shoved her away. "Don't touch me."Caught off guard by his force, Willow stumbled backward. Her back slammed into the edge of the table, a sharp pain radiating up her spine, and she furrowed her brow.The bathroom door slammed shut so hard that the picture frames on the wall rattled.It was the ultimate manifestation of a man's unbearable disgust.Willow let out a long breath.She opened the drawer of her vanity and pulled out two copies of the divorce agreement.Eddy was Harrison's son.But she could never bring herself to reveal that truth.That night, Harrison had been completely intoxicated.He had claimed her in a frenzy, taking her virginity with relentless intensity.All while murmuring another woman's name.Cecilia, Cecilia... I'm sorry, I married a woman I don't love.It was only later that Willow found out that day was the day Cecilia Jardine had moved abroad.Not long after, Harrison had used the excuse of expanding their overseas markets to go to the exact same country.During the two years he was abroad, Willow had kept her pregnancy a secret from everyone and given birth to a child.She decided to raise him entirely on her own.She never dared to hope for Harrison's love.She didn't dare to ask for it, knowing that trying would only result in her own humiliation.She had survived the hardest days and gradually realized that growing old alone wasn't something to be afraid of anymore.Willow signed her name on the signature line, clean and decisive.Ten minutes later, Harrison walked out wrapped in a towel.He had a phenomenal physique—broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and tight, defined muscles that spoke of pure raw power.No matter how many times she saw him, Willow still felt her face heat up.She couldn't help but think of the one and only time they had been intimate, a dizzying, unforgettable night of passion."Harrison, your milk is warmed up. I'm going to sleep in the guest room."Willow turned to leave, just as she always did.Harrison suddenly grabbed her wrist, his gaze landing on the divorce papers on the table. "What is this?"Willow tried to pull her hand away, her voice uncontrollably choked up. "Can't you read the title? I've already signed it."Harrison scoffed, his grip tightening. "What, your first love is about to be a free man, and you just can't wait to run back into his arms?""You're hurting me, Harrison." Willow met his mocking gaze, a bitter ache in her chest. "We both know exactly why we're getting divorced."A predatory storm brewed in Harrison's eyes. "Isn't it because you have another family hidden away? Your little love nest with Julian York!"Willow stared at him in shock for a few seconds before the anger of being falsely accused rushed to her head, bringing a flood of tears with it."That's not my home with Julian, that's your—""I have zero interest in hearing about you and your murderer!"Harrison didn't even have the patience to let her finish explaining.The word 'child' got stuck in Willow's throat. She turned it over and over in her mind, only for it to turn into a bitter pill she was forced to swallow.She could never forget the absolute revulsion on Harrison's face whenever the topic was vaguely brought up.'A lunatic having another psycho to add to the Prescott family?''You think I want a murderer's second-hand leftovers?'Every word had acted like a blade, carving directly into Willow's heart.She lowered her head, exhausted.She couldn't say another word.Harrison pulled her closer, forcing her chin up. Her clear, tear-filled eyes reflected nothing but him, and only then did the nameless frustration in his chest begin to dissipate."Listen to me, Willow. You want a divorce? Fine. But you won't get a single cent of the Prescott money!"Willow lifted her heavy eyelids, a self-deprecating glimmer in her tear-stained eyes."I've paid off my debts. I don't deserve your money."A flash of shock crossed Harrison's face for a fraction of a second before a heavy, somber shadow fell over his features."You better think this through."Willow's voice was soft, gentle, and melodic. "I won't regret it."Harrison released her, got dressed, and didn't look back."Even if you regret it, I will never agree to take you back."The door opened and closed, letting in a draft of freezing wind.Willow collapsed onto the bed, curling her body into a tight ball and wrapping her arms around herself.At five in the morning, the harsh winter night felt endless.After sitting up the entire night, Willow began to pack her bags.She had very few possessions and nothing of real value.The allowance Harrison had given her was more than enough for a single person, but raising Eddy required stretching every penny.When he was in a good mood, he used to bring home beautiful jewelry as gifts. Willow had sold most of them to help pay for baby expenses, leaving behind only one massive diamond ring.It was an exceedingly rare twenty-three-carat fancy intense pink diamond, appraised by a high-end pawnshop at millions of dollars.Engraved inside the band were the initials C.J.—clearly a gift meant for Cecilia Jardine that was either never given or flatly rejected.Willow wiped the dust off the velvet box and placed it conspicuously on the counter.She took one last look around the luxuriously decorated bedroom.For the past four years, she had lived purely to atone for sins, trapped in a gilded cage. Now that the overwhelming guilt had finally worn off, she could leave feeling completely unburdened.She carried her bags downstairs, only to spot a dark silhouette on the living room sofa.It was common for Harrison not to come home at night, and Amberwood Manor didn't employ live-in staff, so she was used to sleeping in the massive house alone.She was startled, freezing on the steps.She initially thought a burglar had broken in, or perhaps one of the relatives from the family dinner had stayed the night.The dark silhouette stood up.Willow flipped on the wall sconce, and a stark, strikingly handsome face emerged from the shadows.Harrison's gaze was dark and unreadable, casually dropping to the suitcase in her hand. "Upgrading your little tricks? Or are you just going to come crying back once you burn through your pocket change?"Willow's tone was laced with exhaustion. "I won't."This wasn't the first time Willow had brought up divorce, only for it to fade into nothing.But this time, her mind was entirely made up.Harrison's lips curved into a cynical smirk. "Makes sense. The murderer is out of prison, so you can go have some fun for a while."Willow's bloodless lips trembled. "Julian York is not a murderer! He got into that accident trying to protect me! Please, stop calling him that!"Harrison scoffed, his mocking tone cutting through the air like a bitter winter wind."Julian is a murderer! He killed the Prescotts' driver, and Cecilia's brother is still lying in a hospital bed to this day. And you, Willow—if he's such a saint, why didn't you marry him? Why did you insist on marrying me? You knew perfectly well I was engaged, yet you were desperately, madly in love with me."Outside, a low rumble of thunder echoed. Lightning illuminated Harrison's devastatingly handsome face as he stepped onto the staircase, advancing on her step by step.Willow turned deadly pale, her frail body swaying as a wave of dizziness sent a flurry of memories rushing through her mind.They had shared genuinely happy moments once, during those months when Harrison was confined to his wheelchair.During the day, she bathed and massaged him, and at night, he was tender and affectionate, teasingly biting her ear and demanding she call him her husband.They had held each other, kissed, and whispered sweet nothings, coming so close to breaking down that final barrier.How could she not have fallen for him? But just as she committed herself to fully embracing her role as his wife, all she received in return was endless humiliation.Harrison had only treated her as a distraction—a toy to manipulate and exact revenge on.Willow had seen the side of him that could love, making everything that followed feel like absolute hell.Harrison's attitude toward her had grown increasingly cold, his eyes filled with nothing but disgust. He had fled to the country his beloved lived in, leaving her all alone to endlessly agonize over what she had done wrong.Willow tightened her grip on the handle of her suitcase, steadying herself to face Harrison as he towered over her.This time, she mustered the courage to ask the question to which she already knew the answer. "Did you ever love me? Even for just a few days? A month?"His cold, ruthless voice rang out from above, his mocking laughter shattering her eardrums. "I see you don't actually want a divorce. What, did you really think I'd beg you to stay?""I understand now."Willow had a habit of taking those tiny, beautiful moments and magnifying them, foolishly believing there was some genuine affection mixed in. She relied on those false illusions to survive the days, only to plummet into a deeper despair during the lonely nights.Chapter 2It was a family dinner.Harrison Prescott’s first love had returned to the country, and everyone was buzzing about it.As his wife, Willow Quinn remained silent, staring blankly at the food on her plate.Her mother-in-law suddenly shifted the topic. "Willow, how many years has your murderer ex-boyfriend been in prison? He must be getting out soon, right?"Willow masked the humiliation in her eyes. "Four years. He gets out next month."Her mother-in-law's tone was deeply pointed. "Time flies. It's already been four years since you and Harrison got married."Willow understood the unspoken implication.Four years ago, Julian York's brakes had failed, causing a head-on collision with Harrison's car.One person died, and two were severely injured.Julian was sent to prison.To secure a letter of forgiveness from the Prescott family and advocate for a lighter sentence, Willow had stood stubbornly outside the Prescott estate in a sweltering heatwave until her legs gave out, ultimately collapsing onto the pavement.At the time, the Prescott family had hired a psychic who claimed Harrison wouldn't survive his critical injuries unless a bride was brought in to ward off the grim reaper.So, the Prescotts arranged for Willow to marry him on his deathbed.But no one expected that on the night of the wedding, Harrison would actually wake up from his coma.The Prescotts decided that Willow brought good luck, so they allowed her to stay.From that day on, Willow worked tirelessly day and night to care for her wheelchair-bound husband, helping Harrison successfully take over the family business and rise to become a dominant force in the corporate world.Now, four years later, with the Prescott family's preferred bride back in the picture, this marriage had reached its expiration date.Willow spoke up calmly. "I've already had a lawyer draft the divorce papers. I'll bring them to you to look over shortly."Her mother-in-law frowned and scoffed.Willow quickly corrected herself. "My apologies, Mrs. Prescott."Just as the words left her mouth, Harrison returned.He was tall and imposing, dressed in a high-quality black wool coat that seemed to carry the winter frost with it. The beautifully wrapped pink gift box in his hand was particularly glaring.It was clearly a gift from a woman.Harrison and Willow's eyes met for a split second before they seamlessly looked away, and he took a seat across the dining table.From Willow's angle, his unfairly handsome profile looked colder than the edge of a blade.Intangible. Unreachable.His mother asked, "Harrison, why didn't you bring Cecilia back with you?"Harrison's expression was indifferent. "She went back to the Jardine estate.""Then you must have seen her parents. Did you bring up the marriage arrangement between our two families?"The entire table instantly fell silent, waiting for Harrison's response.Willow's phone buzzed, and the words 'Eddy' lighting up the screen tugged at her heart.Everyone turned to look at her. There was no outright scolding, only cold stares.A condescending, absolute indifference."Excuse me, I'm finished eating. I'm going back to my room."Willow stood up, but before she could head upstairs, her mother-in-law pressed the issue."Harrison, now that Cecilia is back, shouldn't you finally divorce Willow?"Harrison remained silent, his expression turning even colder than before.It was a tacit agreement.Willow gripped her phone tightly and quickened her pace, fleeing the room....Inside the bedroom.Willow answered her son's video call."Mommy, Mommy, when are you coming home? Eddy misses you so much."Tears welled up in the three-year-old boy's eyes. Strawberry jam was smeared around his mouth; he thought it was so delicious that he desperately wanted to share it with his mom, almost crying from the urgency.Willow's heart melted, and she coaxed him gently, "Mommy is still working for her bald boss. As soon as I have a day off, I'll come home to see my sweet boy."Eddy wiped his face, turning into a little messy kitten. "The bald boss is a meanie! Keeping my mommy away!"Willow couldn't help but laugh and played along. "You're right, Mommy will just quit and spend all her time at home with you."Her best friend, Sienna Sutton, walked into the frame wearing a sheet mask."How did it go, Willa? Did you talk to Harrison?"Footsteps approached the door. Before Willow could answer, she hurriedly hung up the call.Harrison pushed the door open. He was always cold toward Willow, but right now he seemed exceptionally distant, a subtle rage simmering beneath the surface.He stood there without a word, radiating a chilling aura.Willow stood up to greet him, offering a soft smile. "Harrison, are you going to shower? Let me help you."She reached up to help unbutton his coat.Harrison looked down at her.Up close, Willow's features were stunning. She had a delicate nose, perfect facial structure, and a radiant, luminous complexion without a single flaw. She was undeniably beautiful.But that endlessly calm little face of hers was incredibly irritating to him.He shoved her away. "Don't touch me."Caught off guard by his force, Willow stumbled backward. Her back slammed into the edge of the table, a sharp pain radiating up her spine, and she furrowed her brow.The bathroom door slammed shut so hard that the picture frames on the wall rattled.It was the ultimate manifestation of a man's unbearable disgust.Willow let out a long breath.She opened the drawer of her vanity and pulled out two copies of the divorce agreement.Eddy was Harrison's son.But she could never bring herself to reveal that truth.That night, Harrison had been completely intoxicated.He had claimed her in a frenzy, taking her virginity with relentless intensity.All while murmuring another woman's name.Cecilia, Cecilia... I'm sorry, I married a woman I don't love.It was only later that Willow found out that day was the day Cecilia Jardine had moved abroad.Not long after, Harrison had used the excuse of expanding their overseas markets to go to the exact same country.During the two years he was abroad, Willow had kept her pregnancy a secret from everyone and given birth to a child.She decided to raise him entirely on her own.She never dared to hope for Harrison's love.She didn't dare to ask for it, knowing that trying would only result in her own humiliation.She had survived the hardest days and gradually realized that growing old alone wasn't something to be afraid of anymore.Willow signed her name on the signature line, clean and decisive.Ten minutes later, Harrison walked out wrapped in a towel.He had a phenomenal physique—broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and tight, defined muscles that spoke of pure raw power.No matter how many times she saw him, Willow still felt her face heat up.She couldn't help but think of the one and only time they had been intimate, a dizzying, unforgettable night of passion."Harrison, your milk is warmed up. I'm going to sleep in the guest room."Willow turned to leave, just as she always did.Harrison suddenly grabbed her wrist, his gaze landing on the divorce papers on the table. "What is this?"Willow tried to pull her hand away, her voice uncontrollably choked up. "Can't you read the title? I've already signed it."Harrison scoffed, his grip tightening. "What, your first love is about to be a free man, and you just can't wait to run back into his arms?""You're hurting me, Harrison." Willow met his mocking gaze, a bitter ache in her chest. "We both know exactly why we're getting divorced."A predatory storm brewed in Harrison's eyes. "Isn't it because you have another family hidden away? Your little love nest with Julian York!"Willow stared at him in shock for a few seconds before the anger of being falsely accused rushed to her head, bringing a flood of tears with it."That's not my home with Julian, that's your—""I have zero interest in hearing about you and your murderer!"Harrison didn't even have the patience to let her finish explaining.The word 'child' got stuck in Willow's throat. She turned it over and over in her mind, only for it to turn into a bitter pill she was forced to swallow.She could never forget the absolute revulsion on Harrison's face whenever the topic was vaguely brought up.'A lunatic having another psycho to add to the Prescott family?''You think I want a murderer's second-hand leftovers?'Every word had acted like a blade, carving directly into Willow's heart.She lowered her head, exhausted.She couldn't say another word.Harrison pulled her closer, forcing her chin up. Her clear, tear-filled eyes reflected nothing but him, and only then did the nameless frustration in his chest begin to dissipate."Listen to me, Willow. You want a divorce? Fine. But you won't get a single cent of the Prescott money!"Willow lifted her heavy eyelids, a self-deprecating glimmer in her tear-stained eyes."I've paid off my debts. I don't deserve your money."A flash of shock crossed Harrison's face for a fraction of a second before a heavy, somber shadow fell over his features."You better think this through."Willow's voice was soft, gentle, and melodic. "I won't regret it."Harrison released her, got dressed, and didn't look back."Even if you regret it, I will never agree to take you back."The door opened and closed, letting in a draft of freezing wind.Willow collapsed onto the bed, curling her body into a tight ball and wrapping her arms around herself.At five in the morning, the harsh winter night felt endless.After sitting up the entire night, Willow began to pack her bags.She had very few possessions and nothing of real value.The allowance Harrison had given her was more than enough for a single person, but raising Eddy required stretching every penny.When he was in a good mood, he used to bring home beautiful jewelry as gifts. Willow had sold most of them to help pay for baby expenses, leaving behind only one massive diamond ring.It was an exceedingly rare twenty-three-carat fancy intense pink diamond, appraised by a high-end pawnshop at millions of dollars.Engraved inside the band were the initials C.J.—clearly a gift meant for Cecilia Jardine that was either never given or flatly rejected.Willow wiped the dust off the velvet box and placed it conspicuously on the counter.She took one last look around the luxuriously decorated bedroom.For the past four years, she had lived purely to atone for sins, trapped in a gilded cage. Now that the overwhelming guilt had finally worn off, she could leave feeling completely unburdened.She carried her bags downstairs, only to spot a dark silhouette on the living room sofa.It was common for Harrison not to come home at night, and Amberwood Manor didn't employ live-in staff, so she was used to sleeping in the massive house alone.She was startled, freezing on the steps.She initially thought a burglar had broken in, or perhaps one of the relatives from the family dinner had stayed the night.The dark silhouette stood up.Willow flipped on the wall sconce, and a stark, strikingly handsome face emerged from the shadows.Harrison's gaze was dark and unreadable, casually dropping to the suitcase in her hand. "Upgrading your little tricks? Or are you just going to come crying back once you burn through your pocket change?"Willow's tone was laced with exhaustion. "I won't."This wasn't the first time Willow had brought up divorce, only for it to fade into nothing.But this time, her mind was entirely made up.Harrison's lips curved into a cynical smirk. "Makes sense. The murderer is out of prison, so you can go have some fun for a while."Willow's bloodless lips trembled. "Julian York is not a murderer! He got into that accident trying to protect me! Please, stop calling him that!"Harrison scoffed, his mocking tone cutting through the air like a bitter winter wind."Julian is a murderer! He killed the Prescotts' driver, and Cecilia's brother is still lying in a hospital bed to this day. And you, Willow—if he's such a saint, why didn't you marry him? Why did you insist on marrying me? You knew perfectly well I was engaged, yet you were desperately, madly in love with me."Outside, a low rumble of thunder echoed. Lightning illuminated Harrison's devastatingly handsome face as he stepped onto the staircase, advancing on her step by step.Willow turned deadly pale, her frail body swaying as a wave of dizziness sent a flurry of memories rushing through her mind.They had shared genuinely happy moments once, during those months when Harrison was confined to his wheelchair.During the day, she bathed and massaged him, and at night, he was tender and affectionate, teasingly biting her ear and demanding she call him her husband.They had held each other, kissed, and whispered sweet nothings, coming so close to breaking down that final barrier.How could she not have fallen for him? But just as she committed herself to fully embracing her role as his wife, all she received in return was endless humiliation.Harrison had only treated her as a distraction—a toy to manipulate and exact revenge on.Willow had seen the side of him that could love, making everything that followed feel like absolute hell.Harrison's attitude toward her had grown increasingly cold, his eyes filled with nothing but disgust. He had fled to the country his beloved lived in, leaving her all alone to endlessly agonize over what she had done wrong.Willow tightened her grip on the handle of her suitcase, steadying herself to face Harrison as he towered over her.This time, she mustered the courage to ask the question to which she already knew the answer. "Did you ever love me? Even for just a few days? A month?"His cold, ruthless voice rang out from above, his mocking laughter shattering her eardrums. "I see you don't actually want a divorce. What, did you really think I'd beg you to stay?""I understand now."Willow had a habit of taking those tiny, beautiful moments and magnifying them, foolishly believing there was some genuine affection mixed in. She relied on those false illusions to survive the days, only to plummet into a deeper despair during the lonely nights.Chapter 3It was a family dinner.Harrison Prescott’s first love had returned to the country, and everyone was buzzing about it.As his wife, Willow Quinn remained silent, staring blankly at the food on her plate.Her mother-in-law suddenly shifted the topic. "Willow, how many years has your murderer ex-boyfriend been in prison? He must be getting out soon, right?"Willow masked the humiliation in her eyes. "Four years. He gets out next month."Her mother-in-law's tone was deeply pointed. "Time flies. It's already been four years since you and Harrison got married."Willow understood the unspoken implication.Four years ago, Julian York's brakes had failed, causing a head-on collision with Harrison's car.One person died, and two were severely injured.Julian was sent to prison.To secure a letter of forgiveness from the Prescott family and advocate for a lighter sentence, Willow had stood stubbornly outside the Prescott estate in a sweltering heatwave until her legs gave out, ultimately collapsing onto the pavement.At the time, the Prescott family had hired a psychic who claimed Harrison wouldn't survive his critical injuries unless a bride was brought in to ward off the grim reaper.So, the Prescotts arranged for Willow to marry him on his deathbed.But no one expected that on the night of the wedding, Harrison would actually wake up from his coma.The Prescotts decided that Willow brought good luck, so they allowed her to stay.From that day on, Willow worked tirelessly day and night to care for her wheelchair-bound husband, helping Harrison successfully take over the family business and rise to become a dominant force in the corporate world.Now, four years later, with the Prescott family's preferred bride back in the picture, this marriage had reached its expiration date.Willow spoke up calmly. "I've already had a lawyer draft the divorce papers. I'll bring them to you to look over shortly."Her mother-in-law frowned and scoffed.Willow quickly corrected herself. "My apologies, Mrs. Prescott."Just as the words left her mouth, Harrison returned.He was tall and imposing, dressed in a high-quality black wool coat that seemed to carry the winter frost with it. The beautifully wrapped pink gift box in his hand was particularly glaring.It was clearly a gift from a woman.Harrison and Willow's eyes met for a split second before they seamlessly looked away, and he took a seat across the dining table.From Willow's angle, his unfairly handsome profile looked colder than the edge of a blade.Intangible. Unreachable.His mother asked, "Harrison, why didn't you bring Cecilia back with you?"Harrison's expression was indifferent. "She went back to the Jardine estate.""Then you must have seen her parents. Did you bring up the marriage arrangement between our two families?"The entire table instantly fell silent, waiting for Harrison's response.Willow's phone buzzed, and the words 'Eddy' lighting up the screen tugged at her heart.Everyone turned to look at her. There was no outright scolding, only cold stares.A condescending, absolute indifference."Excuse me, I'm finished eating. I'm going back to my room."Willow stood up, but before she could head upstairs, her mother-in-law pressed the issue."Harrison, now that Cecilia is back, shouldn't you finally divorce Willow?"Harrison remained silent, his expression turning even colder than before.It was a tacit agreement.Willow gripped her phone tightly and quickened her pace, fleeing the room....Inside the bedroom.Willow answered her son's video call."Mommy, Mommy, when are you coming home? Eddy misses you so much."Tears welled up in the three-year-old boy's eyes. Strawberry jam was smeared around his mouth; he thought it was so delicious that he desperately wanted to share it with his mom, almost crying from the urgency.Willow's heart melted, and she coaxed him gently, "Mommy is still working for her bald boss. As soon as I have a day off, I'll come home to see my sweet boy."Eddy wiped his face, turning into a little messy kitten. "The bald boss is a meanie! Keeping my mommy away!"Willow couldn't help but laugh and played along. "You're right, Mommy will just quit and spend all her time at home with you."Her best friend, Sienna Sutton, walked into the frame wearing a sheet mask."How did it go, Willa? Did you talk to Harrison?"Footsteps approached the door. Before Willow could answer, she hurriedly hung up the call.Harrison pushed the door open. He was always cold toward Willow, but right now he seemed exceptionally distant, a subtle rage simmering beneath the surface.He stood there without a word, radiating a chilling aura.Willow stood up to greet him, offering a soft smile. "Harrison, are you going to shower? Let me help you."She reached up to help unbutton his coat.Harrison looked down at her.Up close, Willow's features were stunning. She had a delicate nose, perfect facial structure, and a radiant, luminous complexion without a single flaw. She was undeniably beautiful.But that endlessly calm little face of hers was incredibly irritating to him.He shoved her away. "Don't touch me."Caught off guard by his force, Willow stumbled backward. Her back slammed into the edge of the table, a sharp pain radiating up her spine, and she furrowed her brow.The bathroom door slammed shut so hard that the picture frames on the wall rattled.It was the ultimate manifestation of a man's unbearable disgust.Willow let out a long breath.She opened the drawer of her vanity and pulled out two copies of the divorce agreement.Eddy was Harrison's son.But she could never bring herself to reveal that truth.That night, Harrison had been completely intoxicated.He had claimed her in a frenzy, taking her virginity with relentless intensity.All while murmuring another woman's name.Cecilia, Cecilia... I'm sorry, I married a woman I don't love.It was only later that Willow found out that day was the day Cecilia Jardine had moved abroad.Not long after, Harrison had used the excuse of expanding their overseas markets to go to the exact same country.During the two years he was abroad, Willow had kept her pregnancy a secret from everyone and given birth to a child.She decided to raise him entirely on her own.She never dared to hope for Harrison's love.She didn't dare to ask for it, knowing that trying would only result in her own humiliation.She had survived the hardest days and gradually realized that growing old alone wasn't something to be afraid of anymore.Willow signed her name on the signature line, clean and decisive.Ten minutes later, Harrison walked out wrapped in a towel.He had a phenomenal physique—broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and tight, defined muscles that spoke of pure raw power.No matter how many times she saw him, Willow still felt her face heat up.She couldn't help but think of the one and only time they had been intimate, a dizzying, unforgettable night of passion."Harrison, your milk is warmed up. I'm going to sleep in the guest room."Willow turned to leave, just as she always did.Harrison suddenly grabbed her wrist, his gaze landing on the divorce papers on the table. "What is this?"Willow tried to pull her hand away, her voice uncontrollably choked up. "Can't you read the title? I've already signed it."Harrison scoffed, his grip tightening. "What, your first love is about to be a free man, and you just can't wait to run back into his arms?""You're hurting me, Harrison." Willow met his mocking gaze, a bitter ache in her chest. "We both know exactly why we're getting divorced."A predatory storm brewed in Harrison's eyes. "Isn't it because you have another family hidden away? Your little love nest with Julian York!"Willow stared at him in shock for a few seconds before the anger of being falsely accused rushed to her head, bringing a flood of tears with it."That's not my home with Julian, that's your—""I have zero interest in hearing about you and your murderer!"Harrison didn't even have the patience to let her finish explaining.The word 'child' got stuck in Willow's throat. She turned it over and over in her mind, only for it to turn into a bitter pill she was forced to swallow.She could never forget the absolute revulsion on Harrison's face whenever the topic was vaguely brought up.'A lunatic having another psycho to add to the Prescott family?''You think I want a murderer's second-hand leftovers?'Every word had acted like a blade, carving directly into Willow's heart.She lowered her head, exhausted.She couldn't say another word.Harrison pulled her closer, forcing her chin up. Her clear, tear-filled eyes reflected nothing but him, and only then did the nameless frustration in his chest begin to dissipate."Listen to me, Willow. You want a divorce? Fine. But you won't get a single cent of the Prescott money!"Willow lifted her heavy eyelids, a self-deprecating glimmer in her tear-stained eyes."I've paid off my debts. I don't deserve your money."A flash of shock crossed Harrison's face for a fraction of a second before a heavy, somber shadow fell over his features."You better think this through."Willow's voice was soft, gentle, and melodic. "I won't regret it."Harrison released her, got dressed, and didn't look back."Even if you regret it, I will never agree to take you back."The door opened and closed, letting in a draft of freezing wind.Willow collapsed onto the bed, curling her body into a tight ball and wrapping her arms around herself.At five in the morning, the harsh winter night felt endless.After sitting up the entire night, Willow began to pack her bags.She had very few possessions and nothing of real value.The allowance Harrison had given her was more than enough for a single person, but raising Eddy required stretching every penny.When he was in a good mood, he used to bring home beautiful jewelry as gifts. Willow had sold most of them to help pay for baby expenses, leaving behind only one massive diamond ring.It was an exceedingly rare twenty-three-carat fancy intense pink diamond, appraised by a high-end pawnshop at millions of dollars.Engraved inside the band were the initials C.J.—clearly a gift meant for Cecilia Jardine that was either never given or flatly rejected.Willow wiped the dust off the velvet box and placed it conspicuously on the counter.She took one last look around the luxuriously decorated bedroom.For the past four years, she had lived purely to atone for sins, trapped in a gilded cage. Now that the overwhelming guilt had finally worn off, she could leave feeling completely unburdened.She carried her bags downstairs, only to spot a dark silhouette on the living room sofa.It was common for Harrison not to come home at night, and Amberwood Manor didn't employ live-in staff, so she was used to sleeping in the massive house alone.She was startled, freezing on the steps.She initially thought a burglar had broken in, or perhaps one of the relatives from the family dinner had stayed the night.The dark silhouette stood up.Willow flipped on the wall sconce, and a stark, strikingly handsome face emerged from the shadows.Harrison's gaze was dark and unreadable, casually dropping to the suitcase in her hand. "Upgrading your little tricks? Or are you just going to come crying back once you burn through your pocket change?"Willow's tone was laced with exhaustion. "I won't."This wasn't the first time Willow had brought up divorce, only for it to fade into nothing.But this time, her mind was entirely made up.Harrison's lips curved into a cynical smirk. "Makes sense. The murderer is out of prison, so you can go have some fun for a while."Willow's bloodless lips trembled. "Julian York is not a murderer! He got into that accident trying to protect me! Please, stop calling him that!"Harrison scoffed, his mocking tone cutting through the air like a bitter winter wind."Julian is a murderer! He killed the Prescotts' driver, and Cecilia's brother is still lying in a hospital bed to this day. And you, Willow—if he's such a saint, why didn't you marry him? Why did you insist on marrying me? You knew perfectly well I was engaged, yet you were desperately, madly in love with me."Outside, a low rumble of thunder echoed. Lightning illuminated Harrison's devastatingly handsome face as he stepped onto the staircase, advancing on her step by step.Willow turned deadly pale, her frail body swaying as a wave of dizziness sent a flurry of memories rushing through her mind.They had shared genuinely happy moments once, during those months when Harrison was confined to his wheelchair.During the day, she bathed and massaged him, and at night, he was tender and affectionate, teasingly biting her ear and demanding she call him her husband.They had held each other, kissed, and whispered sweet nothings, coming so close to breaking down that final barrier.How could she not have fallen for him? But just as she committed herself to fully embracing her role as his wife, all she received in return was endless humiliation.Harrison had only treated her as a distraction—a toy to manipulate and exact revenge on.Willow had seen the side of him that could love, making everything that followed feel like absolute hell.Harrison's attitude toward her had grown increasingly cold, his eyes filled with nothing but disgust. He had fled to the country his beloved lived in, leaving her all alone to endlessly agonize over what she had done wrong.Willow tightened her grip on the handle of her suitcase, steadying herself to face Harrison as he towered over her.This time, she mustered the courage to ask the question to which she already knew the answer. "Did you ever love me? Even for just a few days? A month?"His cold, ruthless voice rang out from above, his mocking laughter shattering her eardrums. "I see you don't actually want a divorce. What, did you really think I'd beg you to stay?""I understand now."Willow had a habit of taking those tiny, beautiful moments and magnifying them, foolishly believing there was some genuine affection mixed in. She relied on those false illusions to survive the days, only to plummet into a deeper despair during the lonely nights.