Darlene Heath was an A-list movie star, the muse of countless renowned directors.

But everything changed the moment she boarded the plane to accept her Best Actress award.

While she was in the air, her nude photos went viral online.

By the time she landed, she was no longer the acclaimed actress admired by millions, but a scandal-ridden woman despised by all.

She stared at her phone screen, reading the news that her Best Actress award had been revoked.

When she looked up, she found herself surrounded by protesters holding prints of those very photos.

"You shameless whore! Get out of showbiz!"

"You slept your way to the top and think you deserve this award? You disgust us!"

By the time her agent managed to shove her into the car, Darlene was trembling uncontrollably.

Her husband, Aldrich, had assured her he had destroyed all those photos.

How could this be happening?

She rushed home as fast as she could. But the moment her hand rested on the study doorknob, the conversation from within froze her in place.

"Mr. Hinton, isn't this too cruel to Darlene? She's fought for her career for years. This single scandal could destroy everything she's worked for. She might even be blacklisted."

Aldrich spoke with a calm, detached tone, as if he were commenting on the weather.

"The Best Actress award must go to Minnie. For Minnie's career, I wouldn't hesitate to sacrifice Darlene."

Darlene pressed her back tightly against the wall, a wave of icy dread washing over her.

"Mr. Hinton, you're such a visionary. Just three moves, and you have Darlene wrapped around your finger," his subordinate fawned.

"First, you had her agency trick her into signing that dual contract when she entered showbiz.

"Second, you used the 8-million-dollar penalty clause to pressure her into voluntarily stripping herself naked and posing for those nude photos.

"And the third move was the masterstroke—by playing the hero saving the day, you completely won her heart. Now she's utterly devoted, working tirelessly as your most profitable cash cow.

"She's more obedient than a maid, and best of all, you don't even have to pay her acting fees!"

A chorus of laughter erupted from the study. On the other side of the door, Darlene was on the verge of a breakdown.

Even now, she could still recall the warmth and reassurance she felt when Aldrich had wrapped his suit jacket around her naked body that day.

He had covered her eyes with his broad palm, shielding her from all the filth.

"Don't look. It's not your fault.

"Cry if you need to. I'm here. I'll destroy every one of these photos, and I promise—no one here will ever speak of what happened today."

In the days that followed, Aldrich never once mentioned the incident.

He carefully protected her pride, showing through his actions that he didn't mind.

She had always considered that incident the greatest stain on her life, yet a small, secret part of her had also been grateful—if it hadn't happened, she and Aldrich might never have met and fallen in love.

Now, she knew the truth. Her most treasured memories, the very foundation of their love, were nothing but a long-premeditated scam!

And as she would soon discover, that wasn't even the whole story.

Aldrich's following words twisted like a knife deep in her heart once again.

"Showbiz is a real snake pit. With Darlene paving the way, Minnie will be guaranteed a smooth future."

Noticing the unmistakable affection in Aldrich's eyes as he spoke of Minerva Greene, his subordinate ventured cautiously, "Mr. Hinton, since you're so protective of Minnie, why did you marry Darlene? You actually fell for her?"

Outside the door, Darlene bit down hard on the back of her hand, a sliver of foolish hope still clinging to her heart.

If Aldrich had ever felt anything genuine for her, her devotion wouldn't feel so foolish and wasted.

But that hope was shattered instantly. Gazing into his wine glass, Aldrich let out a light, almost helpless scoff.

"Three years ago, Minnie just got her driver's license. She was nervous and accidentally hit Darlene and her mother. The baby Darlene was carrying and her mother... both died.

"It wasn't Minnie's fault. She was terrified. Darlene and her mother didn't get out of the way in time."

Darlene's legs trembled. She bit down on her skin so hard it drew blood, forcing back the roar of fury rising in her throat.

The memory of that day still haunted her in the dead of night.

Three years ago, she had finally saved enough to buy a small apartment and bring her mother, who had endured a lifetime of hardship in her hometown, to live with her.

That evening, they went out for a walk. She held her mother's hand, her other hand stroking her belly where Aldrich's child grew.

She felt enveloped by happiness, convinced that fortune had finally favored her—that her life was steadily turning for the better.

Then, without warning, headlights flashed toward them. Her mother shoved her away with desperate strength.

By the time she opened her eyes again, all Darlene saw was her mother's cold body.

She wept hysterically, and Aldrich held her in his arms, his voice a soothing balm.

"Don't worry, Darlene. I promise you—I'll turn LA upside down to find the hit-and-run driver. Whoever did this must pay for your mother and our baby's death!"

But a month passed, and only disappointment followed.

Aldrich delivered the final blow. "The police told me the surveillance cameras nearby were broken that night."

Then, his tone softened into a proposal. "But it's alright, Darlene. From now on, you can rely on me. I'll stay by your side and love you forever.

"Darlene, will you marry me?"

Now, staring down at the wedding ring on her finger, Darlene finally understood—this marriage, this illusion of happiness, was stained with the blood of her mother and her unborn child.

In the study, Aldrich spoke again.

"I was worried Darlene wouldn't let go and might trace it back to Minnie, so I married her. The title of Mrs. Hinton was compensation enough.

"As for Minnie... Since I can't marry her, I'll do everything in my power to support her career at all costs."

Just then, a loud thud echoed from outside the door. Aldrich jerked his head up, strode over, and pulled it open.

But there was no one in the hallway.

"It must have been the wind," he murmured, glancing at the fallen vase.

Then he checked the time on his phone. Darlene should have been stranded at the airport.

For a fleeting moment, he had thought she was outside.

Darlene hurried away, holding herself together until she was far from the villa. Only then did she burst into tears.

The memory of Aldrich's sincere, red-rimmed eyes remained vivid in her mind. How could it all have been an act?

After the accident, the doctor told her she would never be able to conceive again.

Helpless, she looked at Aldric, who signed the voluntary vasectomy form without a moment's hesitation.

"Let's not have kids then," he said tenderly. "I'll love you and spoil you for the rest of my life. Alright?"

In that moment, she almost believed she was the lucky one, cherished by fate.

Though she had lost so much, she still had Aldrich.

That was enough!

She was content.

Even after losing all her film roles and endorsements to Minerva, she never once complained while confined to the hospital.

She considered it only natural that Aldrich cared for and supported Minerva in her career, since Minerva was nominally his niece.

Little did she know that beneath the facade lay such a repulsive relationship!

She had almost forgotten—Minerva wasn't related to him by blood. After the Greene family's collapse, Minerva was sent to him and grew up under his care.

He had fallen for the young girl he had raised. How utterly absurd!

Darlene wept so hard that a wave of nausea washed over her. She clutched her wedding ring with such force that the metal bit into her palm, drawing blood.

Just then, her phone chimed. Her eyes fell upon the word "Darling" glowing on the screen, and a chill ran down her spine.

She pressed answer, and Aldrich's familiar, gentle voice flowed through the receiver.

"Honey, are you at the airport? I've sent a bodyguard to pick you up. Don't worry—I've already arranged for those online photos to be removed.

"Your past doesn't matter to me. No matter what happens, I'll always be here to protect you."

Had she not learned the truth moments before, his words would have moved her to tears, making her swear to repay his love with her life.

It took her a long moment to suppress the rising sickness. Clenching her phone, she bit the tip of her tongue until she tasted blood.

"OK," she responded.

Then she ended the call. With trembling fingers, she scrolled through her contacts until she found that glaring name.

She dialed. The call connected within a second.

Her voice regained an unnerving calmness.

"Does your sister still need my kidney?

"I'll give it to her. But on one condition..."

Silence lingered on the other end.

"What condition?"

Darlene stood up, her gaze drifting toward the villa in the distance—the place she had once called home with Aldrich. The light in the study was still on.

Her throat tightened, and her eyes gradually darkened.

Late into the night, she ended the call.

The divorce agreement she had asked her lawyer to draft had already arrived in her inbox.

Scanning the section on asset division—stipulating that she would receive half of Aldrich's assets—she arched an eyebrow.

It was the promise Aldrich had made to her.

Back then, it never would have occurred to him that she would one day be proposing divorce from him.

When Darlene stepped into the entryway, Aldrich rose from the sofa. Before she could even remove her high heels, he pulled her into an embrace.

"The bodyguard said he didn't see you. He tried calling, but your line was always busy.

"Where were you? Are you OK?"

Aldrich released her just enough to study her from head to toe, only relaxing once he confirmed she wasn't hurt.

Then he scooped her up and placed her gently on the sofa.

Half-crouching before her, he took her hands in his, his thumbs softly stroking her palms.

"I'm so sorry. I thought I had dealt with those photos completely. I had no idea they had saved copies.

"But I assure you, I'll get this under control as soon as possible."

Darlene searched his eyes and found not a trace of guilt or unease.

How many lies like this had he told her over the years?

Aldrich had braced himself for an emotional outburst, and her silence was surprising.

He leaned in, intending to comfort her with a kiss.

But the next moment, she pressed her hands against his chest and turned her face away.

"I'm tired. I'm going to take a shower."

Aldrich said nothing as he watched her retreat, his hands still hovering in midair.

His gaze deepened.

It was the first time Darlene had ever refused him.

Still, he quickly regained his composure, assuming she was simply shaken by the photo scandal.

Early the next morning, by the time Darlene woke, Aldrich had already left.

She picked up her phone and opened Twitter.

Her scandal was still trending, but right below it were several topics related to Minerva.

"A-list celebrity spotted sitting on director George Newton's lap and leaving the hotel disheveled after midnight"

"A-list celebrity suspected to be an actress surnamed Greene"

"Minerva Greene's whereabouts unknown last night"

Darlene clicked on the photo. The masked woman's face was blurred, but she recognized her instantly.

It was Minerva.

No wonder Aldrich had left so early. He must have rushed off to manage the fallout for Minerva.

A cold curiosity stirred inside Darlene. What was he feeling now?

Anger?

Distress?

Or that same helpless indulgence he'd always shown Minerva?

She turned off her screen, printed out the divorce agreement, and slipped it into the stack of contracts waiting for Aldrich's signature on his desk.

She knew his habit—he'd just pick up the paper and quickly sign his name without checking the content again.

Then she opened the walk-in closet and began packing her belongings one by one.

As she looked at the entire wall of gifts from Aldrich, it suddenly struck her—Minerva had every one of them, too.

She even had a ring similar to Darlene's wedding band.

Now, come to think of it, Minerva's seemed to match Aldrich's more closely.

All those years, Darlene had believed Aldrich cherished her and favored her. But the truth was, he had been treating her the same way he treated Minerva.

She tossed her wedding ring into a drawer and slammed it shut.

Just as she finished packing, her agent called.

"Darlene, did you see? Mr. Hinton is holding an emergency press conference!

"Check the live stream! I bet he's going to make a clarification about your photos."

When Darlene clicked the link, the live stream had just begun.

Aldrich adjusted the microphone under a barrage of camera flashes.

Darlene twisted her hands tightly. As the shot widened, she saw Minerva standing tearfully beside him.

"Good morning, members of the press. Regarding the recent online rumors concerning artists under my company, I believe it's necessary to provide some clarification."

The live stream chat exploded with real-time comments, flooding the screen until Aldrich's face was barely visible.

Netizen A: "Husband of the year! He's definitely doing this to protect Darlene."

Netizen B: "Even if the rumors are true, she should be grateful to have such a perfect husband standing by her so firmly."

A bitter smile touched Darlene's lips.

There was a time she would have thought the same.

Meanwhile, Aldrich continued, "After thorough verification, we can confirm that the reports of one of our artists obtaining a film role through improper involvement with a director are true."

The room erupted in chaos.

Darlene's fingers tightened around the sofa cushion, her brow furrowing in confusion.

Aldrich actually admitted it? How could this be?

Darlene's gaze swept toward Minerva, catching the fleeting smirk that crossed Minerva's lips before she lowered her head.

A cold dread instantly shot down Darlene's spine.

"However," Aldrich's voice cut through the murmurs, "the woman in those photographs is not Minerva. At the time they were taken, she was here at the company, discussing a script with me."

The reporters began shouting questions simultaneously, while the live chat scrolled even faster.

"Then who is the woman in the photographs, Mr. Hinton?"

Aldrich turned slowly toward the cameras, enunciating each word with deliberate clarity.

"It is my wife, Darlene Heath."

Darlene stared at the screen in disbelief, her fists clenching so tightly that her nails dug deep into her palms, staining the white sofa cushion with blood.

How could Aldrich do this to her?

Her chest heaved violently, each breath a struggle.

Then it struck her—Aldrich had covered up Minerva's hit-and-run and married her all for Minerva's sake.

There was nothing he wouldn't do for Minerva.

If Minerva wanted her dead, he would probably oblige without hesitation.

The pain in her heart was so overwhelming that she could barely stand.

She stumbled into the kitchen, grabbed a paper bag, and pressed it to her lips, breathing in desperate gulps.

She had just steadied herself when Minerva's voice flowed from the tablet, sending her breath rapid again.

"Although I've taken the blame for Darlene, I don't hold it against her. I'm sure she had her reasons.

"The recent scandal has turned her life upside down. I hope everyone can be more understanding. As long as she realizes her mistake and genuinely wants to start anew, she deserves a second chance.

"It's just..." Minerva tilted her head, gazing tenderly at Aldrich. "I'm afraid the days ahead won't be easy for you, Mr. Hinton.

"And I'd like to thank you for clearing my name."

She spread her arms and embraced Aldrich.

Camera shutters erupted like fireworks, and someone began applauding for her.

Several reporters eagerly thrust microphones toward Aldrich.

"Mr. Hinton, you own the largest entertainment company in Los Angeles. Why would Ms. Heath still resort to those unspoken rules?"

"Will you end your three-year marriage over this?"

"How do you plan to compensate Ms. Greene?"

Darlene turned off the real-time comments, wanting to see Aldrich's hypocritical face more clearly.

"Greed can never be satisfied," he said calmly. "Perhaps my wife and I haven't communicated enough, and I've neglected her needs.

"Here, I want to make an announcement. No matter what happens, I will never give up on our marriage. Whenever she needs me, I'll always be her only anchor.

"As for compensation, we will focus all our resources on Minerva from now on. She'll take over Darlene's roles and endorsements. I believe this will greatly benefit her career."

Her only anchor?

Darlene hurled the tablet to the floor with all her strength, the screen shattering instantly.

The live comments were flooding in again.

"Darlene, you don't deserve to live! You bitch!"

"No need to thank me—I've already prepared a memorial photo for you. Hope it comes in handy tomorrow."

"Do the decent thing—retire and divorce. Mr. Hinton and Minnie are meant to be. Stop standing in their way! You're disgusting."

Darlene clicked on the memorial photo, tears streaming down her face uncontrollably.

Aldrich knew exactly how terrifying cyberbullying could be. Yet, afraid that his beloved Minerva might suffer even the slightest harm, he had thrown Darlene to the wolves.

Within minutes, new trending topics topped the list.

"Apology from Darlene Heath and justice for Minerva Greene, the victim"

"Minerva Greene is beautiful and kind"

"Disgusting Darlene Heath get out of showbiz"

Darlene's eyes reddened.

Why should she take this lying down?

The moment she clicked to respond, she was forcibly logged out.

Then a message came from her agent.

"Darlene, the company is taking over all your social media accounts. You're not permitted to post anything, or you'll be in breach of contract and liable for 150 million dollars in penalties."

Darlene collapsed to the floor, her phone clattering away.

"Well played, Aldrich," she whispered.

She remained there, motionless, as the room slowly darkened.

When the entryway light suddenly switched on, Aldrich paused at the sight of Darlene curled on the floor.

He approached, and seeing her bloodless face, he gathered her into his arms.

"Have you eaten? I'll make you something."

She grabbed his sleeve, pulling him back.

"Don't you have anything to explain to me?"

With a sigh, he sat beside her, gripping her shoulders.

"It all happened too suddenly. I didn't have time to discuss it with you.

"Minnie was drugged by George—she's the victim here. She didn't do anything wrong."

"And what about me?" Darlene shook off his hands, staring intently into his eyes. "I'm supposed to be the scapegoat? Aldrich, have you ever considered my feelings?"

He was taken aback by her intensity.

She had taken the fall for Minerva many times before, never complaining or even getting upset.

But faced with her bloodshot eyes, filled with disappointment and accusation, he instinctively looked away.

"Don't be selfish. Minnie is a Best Actress contender. With you disqualified, we need to ensure the award stays with our company.

"Besides, Minnie is my niece. How could you stand by and watch her reputation be destroyed? Can't you take one for the team? What does it matter, taking her place in the headlines?"

Each cold word froze Darlene's heart a little more.

No matter what, she would always come second to Minerva in his eyes.

When he reached for her waist, she quickly pulled away.

His hands hung in mid-air, his expression darkening.

He'd already made it clear he wouldn't divorce her.

Wasn't that enough?

His patience thinning, his voice turned icy.

"I've been exhausting myself dealing with your nude photo scandal. Can't you, for once, not make everything about yourself? Can't you consider the bigger picture?"

After finishing speaking, Aldrich went straight back to the study, no longer shooting Darlene on the floor another glance.

Darlene watched his retreating figure, a cold sneer twisting her lips.

He called her selfish?

Yes, she was selfish—selfish enough to be used for years, to have no justice for her murdered mother and unborn child, to be thrown to the wolves as Minerva's scapegoat while drowning in a manufactured scandal.

After a long time, she knocked on the study door.

With red-rimmed eyes, she walked over to Aldrich and set a glass of warm milk on the desk.

He recognized the gesture—her way of patching things up with him.

The moment she turned to leave, he pulled her into his arms. His fingertips gently traced her swollen eyelids, trembling slightly.

"Be good," he murmured. "Stay by my side. No more tantrums.

"It's dangerous for you to go out these days. I'll assign more bodyguards. If you need anything, tell the servants."

He tightened his embrace, burying his face in the curve of her neck, his voice softening.

"I'll get you a puppy, alright? I don't want you to be bored at home..."

As his hand slid beneath her skirt, Darlene felt his boy heat and fought back a wave of nausea.

His words were cloaked in concern, yet he was the architect of her suffering.

Her gaze fell on the documents scattered across his desk, and she placed a pen in his hand.

"Go ahead and finish your work. Then come to bed, alright? I'll be waiting."

He pinched her nose playfully, holding her close.

"OK. Whatever you say."

She turned the pages for him while he signed swiftly, unaware that nestled among the routine documents was their divorce agreement.

***

The next morning, Darlene breakfasted with Aldrich and watched his car disappear from view.

Returning to the walk-in closet, she packed all her luxury bags and jewelry that he had given her into two large suitcases.

After dismissing the bodyguards and servants, she hauled the suitcases to a luxury resale store.

"Ma'am, are all these yours?" the appraiser asked.

She adjusted her sunglasses and placed a stack of receipts on the counter.

"Feel free to verify."

It took five staff members all morning to appraise everything.

When they reached an emerald set, Darlene instinctively reached out to stop them.

This was the first jewelry set Aldrich had ever secured for her, outbidding everyone at auction.

After their marriage, he often took her to upscale events in a high-profile way.

But the media cruelly commented that she still looked "shabby" beside him—none of her jewelry seemed worthy of her status.

She had never cared for such things and never complained to Aldrich.

Yet the very next day, he had won this exquisite emerald set for her and fastened it around her neck himself.

"Darlene, you deserve all the best things in this world."

From that day on, her jewelry became a talking point at every public appearance.

Each piece was expensive and dazzling.

But the truth was...

Every piece from Aldrich had been first picked over by Minerva.

Everything she cherished was merely Minerva's leftovers.

"Ma'am, are you keeping this set?" the appraiser asked.

Darlene shook her head, withdrawing her gaze.

"Sell it."

From now on, she would no longer be Minerva's trash bin.

And of course, she refused to be Aldrich's pawn—a sacrifice to his schemes and interests.

The sale of her luxury items netted 50 million dollars. Combined with the assets from the divorce, it would be enough to cover the 150-million-dollar penalty.

Just then, her phone rang.

She answered to hear her agent's panicked, strangely tense voice. "Darlene! Where are you? Come to the office. Now!"

Before she could respond, the call disconnected.

She went to the company anyway.

As the elevator doors opened, she saw police officers gathered at the reception desk, reviewing surveillance footage.

Pushing through the crowd, she saw the zoomed-in computer screen.

In an instant, the last shred of her composure shattered, and she was filled with fury and distress.

Her hands trembled uncontrollably as she shoved aside the person in front of her.

On the screen, a man who moved with difficulty was being pinned down by several security guards. He struggled to fight back, but they tied his wrists and dragged him roughly across the floor.

His face bore a clear resemblance to Darlene's.

It was Vincent Heath—her brother, whose mental age had forever remained seven years old.

"Where is Vincent? Where is he? How could you do this to him!" she roared, her voice breaking into sobs.

She dreaded to imagine how terrified and hurt he must have been.

More onlookers gathered, their whispers sharp and cutting.

"Darlene, is he one of your stans? He showed up this morning, acting crazy—insisting the rumors about you aren't true.

"He demanded to see Mr. Hinton, saying he wanted Mr. Hinton to delete everything online.

"It was so terrifying. Is he nuts or what?"

A cold dread seized Darlene, turning the very blood in her veins to ice.

Vincent had escaped the hospital alone—barely literate and penniless—and found his way here, all to seek justice for her.

At the sight of a trail of blood, not yet dry, leading all the way to the elevator, she cried.

Tears streamed down her cheeks as mocking voices reached her ears.

"There's no media or her fans here. Who's she performing for?"

"How disgusting. She used every trick to marry Mr. Hinton while fooling around. Wouldn't shock me if this creep is on her list."

"We're the unlucky ones stuck cleaning up her messes online every day. It's exhausting!"

Just then, a soft, delicate voice cut through the whispers.

"Darlene, don't blame the security guards. They didn't know he was your brother.

"Mr. Hinton has already called the police and had him taken to the station."

Minerva approached Darlene, offering a tissue with feigned concern.

"Hey, isn't your brother ... you know, mentally challenged? Did you send him here?"

The crowd buzzed louder at Minerva's words.

Their gazes—scrutinizing, sizing up—sweeping over Darlene.

After a cold glance at Minerva's carefully crafted expression, Darlene turned and walked past her without a word.

The cruel laughter and whispers faded as the elevator doors closed.

In the taxi, Darlene trembled with anxiety.

If anything happened to Vincent, she would have no family left in this world.

Tears streamed down her cheeks as memories from when she was five resurfaced.

That day, her drunken, abusive father had thrown her into the pond outside their home. Her mother tried to jump in to save her, only to be pinned to the ground and beaten, her hair yanked violently.

"That damned girl! I wanted to strangle her the day she was born! You bitch! Why didn't you let me?

"I dare you to help her today! I'll beat you to death!"

Her mother was beaten bloody, and she was exhausted, no longer able to struggle. She sank underwater, water filling her mouth and nose.

It was Vincent—just back from farm chores—who dove in and pushed her to the surface.

But his feet got tangled in weeds at the bottom. By the time he was saved, though he survived, his intellect would remain forever frozen at age seven.

Vincent had ended up like this because he saved her.

She had sworn to protect him forever!

The taxi barely came to a stop when she rushed out and into the police station.

Aldrich was giving his statement and was stunned at the sight of her.

"What are you doing here? Didn't I tell you to stay—"

She smashed her purse against his chest, roaring, "Aldrich! Vincent is my brother! You know exactly how important he is to me!

"He may be slow, but how could you let this happen to him? How could you let security beat him? Where is he? Have his wounds been treated? I'm asking you—where is Vincent?!"

Her composure vanished as she rushed toward the holding area, ignoring everyone attempting to stop her.

But Aldrich wrapped his arms around her waist and carried her out.

"Enough, Darlene. This is a police station."

He shoved her into the back of his car, confining her in his embrace. She could do nothing but scream and struggle until she was drained of strength.

Then he said calmly, "Minnie's new drama is in its critical promotion period. She was worried Vincent might say the wrong things elsewhere, so I had the lawyer press charges.

"But don't worry—I'll drop them in a few days, and he'll be released. Nothing will happen to him.

"I know this is a bit unfair to you and Vincent. I'll make it right..."

Darlene stared at him in disbelief.

Make it right?

With money? Or with Minerva's leftovers?

She and Vincent had their dignity and pride!

Who gave him and Minerva the right to trample all over them?

"Aldrich, have you no conscience?

"You..."

She bit back the words, "You and Minerva will pay for what you've done."

A wave of hatred washed over her, metallic with the blood from where she'd bitten her tongue.

Aldrich felt her body grow cold and begin to tremble slightly. He reached for her hand, but just then, Minerva's exclusive ringtone rang out, echoing through the car.

He answered immediately, his voice gentle and patient.

"It's all taken care of. Don't worry."

Seizing the chance, Darlene pulled away from his embrace. Just as she reached for the door, he dragged her back.

Through the receiver, Minerva's voice reached her ears.

"Aldrich, can you talk to Darlene? I want her to attend the Best Actress award ceremony with me.

"People are saying I stole the award from her and that we're on bad terms. I want to clear up these misunderstandings.

"Most importantly ... if possible, I'll put in a good word so she can get the supporting female role in my next film."

Her words, dripping with false concern, masked a clear agenda to further corner Darlene.

Showing up now would undoubtedly intensify the hatred against her.

She might even face direct verbal attacks from anti-fans.

Darlene let out an inward sneer. Minerva's tactics were so lame. She had given Minerva too much credit.

But Aldrich agreed.

"OK. Come for dinner tonight. I'll have Darlene prepare your favorite dishes to thank you."

After hanging up, he pinched the bridge of his nose, his tone dripping with disappointment as he looked at Darlene.

"Minnie looks out for you in every way, yet you're this petty.

"She knows no one wants to cast you, but still tried to secure you a role. You should be grateful."

Darlene froze.

It was never about whether Minerva's schemes were clever—it was about Aldrich's outrageous indulgence.

All his shrewdness and calculation were reserved for her.

The victim, thanking the perpetrator?

How absurd!

"I'm not going to the ceremony. If you want to thank her, do it yourself."

She couldn't stand another second in his presence. Even sharing the same air made her sick.

But as her hand touched the door handle, his icy voice stopped her cold.

"Darlene, be sensible—if not for yourself, then for Vincent.

"Surely you don't want him detained for too long, do you?"

Darlene's blood ran cold.

She couldn't believe how despicable Aldrich was—using Vincent to threaten her.

There was a time she might have thought he was bluffing.

But now, as she studied his impassive profile, a deep dread settled in her chest.

She knew he meant it.

He would hurt Vincent, just as he had tacitly allowed Minerva to walk free after killing her mother three years ago.

A heavy silence filled the car.

Finally, Darlene spoke, her voice cracked and hoarse. "Fine. I'll go."

Only then did Aldrich's frown ease.

He drew her into his arms, his hands closing around her slender wrists, his tone lazy.

"Good. I'll select a gown for you and send you a set of jewelry."

His warm breath brushed her ear as he leaned his forehead against her shoulder, his voice muffled.

"Darling, you've been acting like a different person lately."

A cold smile touched Darlene's lips as she lowered her head to hide the hatred and resentment in her eyes.

Yes, she had changed.

She was no longer that foolish, trusting doll who hung on his every word.

Now she was a living, breathing person—one who could hate, endure, fight back, and one day, send both him and Minerva tumbling into the abyss.

***

In the kitchen, Darlene prepared dinner alone.

She tried to ignore the sounds from the living room, but Minerva's soft moans and gasps pierced through the glass, clear and unmistakable.

"Aldrich, no... Be gentle..."

"It feels so good. How are you so good at this?"

A primal heat stirred within Aldrich at her sounds, his hands easing their pressure.

He instinctively glanced toward the kitchen, but all he saw was Darlene's straight, unyielding back.

"Aldrich, now this leg," Minerva cooed.

She then placed her other leg across his lap and wrapped her arms around his, playing coy.

"I've been running around for promotions every day. I'm exhausted—I could really use a proper massage."

It wasn't until Darlene began setting the table that Aldrich finally withdrew his hands, and Minerva's moans ceased.

No sooner had they taken their seats than Minerva's eyes landed on the crystal bracelet around Darlene's wrist.

"Darlene, that bracelet is stunning! Can I take a closer look?"

The bracelet was the last thing Darlene's mother had left her.

To her, it was a treasure, and she had kept it in the safe for years.

She had only started wearing it again after deciding to leave Aldrich, a tangible reminder that her mother would always be with her.

"Darlene, let Minnie see it. She's always been curious about everything," Aldrich said.

He had already reached for her wrist and removed it.

Minerva took the bracelet and slipped it directly onto her own wrist.

"Darlene, my birthday's coming up. Can I have this as a gift?

"It's not the finest quality, but I don't mind."

Panic surged through Darlene. She stood abruptly, knocking over a mug of scalding soup. It splashed across her hand, turning the skin red and swollen.

But she ignored the pain, reaching toward Minerva.

"No. Not this bracelet. Give it back!"

Tears welled in Minerva's eyes as she shrank behind Aldrich, seeming terrified.

"Aldrich..."

He wiped her tears away and turned a dark gaze on Darlene.

"It's just a bracelet. Do you really have to shout at Minnie?"

"I'd give her anything but this!"

Darlene stepped forward and grabbed Minerva's wrist, but before she could touch the bracelet, a sharp cry pierced the air.

"It hurts!

"Darlene, if you want it back, I'll return it—you didn't have to pinch me..."

Hearing this, Aldrich shoved Darlene away with such force that she was thrown backward.

Her body slammed into the corner of a cabinet, a dark bruise already blooming across her stomach as she collapsed to the floor.

Gasping, she watched Aldrich cradle Minerva's hand, his voice thick with concern.

"Are you hurt?

"Should we go to the hospital?"

Minerva shook her head, and he brought her hand to his lips, rubbing it and blowing softly.

"It won't hurt if I blow on it."

He treated her as though she were the most fragile treasure.

Darlene's heart plunged into an icy void.

For three years, Aldrich's acting had been flawless—always gentle, always attentive to her.

But whenever Minerva was near, his worry and affection for her broke through, no matter how hard he tried to conceal it.

Pouting, Minerva pulled her hand back and took off the crystal bracelet.

"Here, have it back!"

She flung it toward Darlene before turning and storming out without a backward glance.

A sharp crack echoed through the room.

Before Darlene's eyes, the bracelet soared through the air and struck the floor, shattering into pieces.

At the same moment, the door slammed shut—Aldrich had gone after Minerva.

Alone in the empty hall, Darlene crawled toward the shattered fragments.

Her hands trembled as she gathered them, clutching the broken pieces so tightly that blood welled from her palms and dripped to her elbows.

"Mom... I'm sorry...

"It's my fault. All of it. If I hadn't come to Los Angeles, if I hadn't fallen for Aldrich, if I hadn't brought you here..."

But there were no "ifs".

She would never forgive Minerva and Aldrich.

Never.

Just then, her phone on the table lit up. As she read the message from the unknown number, the hatred in her eyes sharpened into something clear and lethal.

"The encrypted file you sent contains core secrets of the Hinton Group. It will be fully decrypted within three days."

Aldrich did not come home all night, and early in the morning, Darlene saw Minerva's latest post on Instagram.

"Someone's compensation, hmph!"

The attached photo was a set of top-tier Bulgari jewelry.

Darlene zoomed in on the jewelry and finally saw the reflection of a figure on its surface.

In the candlelit dinner, Minerva was holding Aldrich, pouting as she kissed his cheek.

Darlene clicked open the comments from mutual friends one by one.

"So happy! When are you getting married?"

"Minnie, is this your secret boyfriend? Rich and doting, you really have a great life!"

"When will you make it public?"

***

Minerva's reply popped up.

"Marriage? That depends on someone's performance."

Darlene entered Minerva's profile and discovered that her background photo was actually the shadow of her and Aldrich standing close together.

She really was the world's biggest fool!

Such an obvious flaw, and in three years, she had never suspected a thing!

Aldrich's call popped up on the screen, and her hand trembled as she answered.

"Don't be late for the award ceremony. The dress and jewelry have already been given to your agent."

As he was about to hang up, Darlene hurriedly asked, "I'll finish what I promised you. Vince, he..."

Aldrich was silent for a few seconds before replying coolly.

"After the ceremony, you'll see Vincent."

Darlene finally breathed a sigh of relief. Every day Vincent was locked up, she lived in constant fear.

This time, she would hide Vincent away, never to be found by Aldrich again.

When Darlene arrived backstage at the award ceremony, not a single artist greeted her.

Everyone avoided her, even sizing her up with a hint of mockery.

"What do you think she's after? Her husband is so handsome and capable, yet she climbed into Mr. Newton's bed! She really will do anything for a lead role."

"She must be good in bed, otherwise why would Mr. Hinton be so reluctant to divorce..."

"She was even removed from the Best Actress award, so why does she still have the nerve to show up? What bad luck!"

***

Darlene tried her best to ignore these harsh words and headed toward the dressing room.

But after searching everywhere, even the dressing rooms used by minor celebrities, she couldn't find her own spot.

"Darlene," Minerva appeared before her in a grand gown, "I saw a spot next to the trash can. You can do your makeup there."

With a smile at the corner of her mouth, Minerva looked at Darlene's disheveled appearance, leaned close to her ear, and continued, "After today, the film industry will only remember the name Minerva. It's time for you to step down."

"Without a job, you're nothing but a dog begging for food in the Hinton family."

She bumped into Darlene's shoulder, her laughter echoing down the corridor.

With the Best Actress award within easy reach, Minerva no longer hid her true self, showing her vicious side.

As the start time approached, Darlene watched the crowd head toward the stage and said to her agent, "Give me the clothes. I'll change in the restroom."

Her agent hesitantly handed over the bag.

Seeing the agent's strange expression, Darlene didn't think much of it and took the bag anyway.

It wasn't until she shook out the contents in the restroom that she realized it was a 'bunny girl' outfit.

A high-cut triangle lingerie up to the waist, with a white tail dangling at the back.

Her hands trembling, she dumped out everything in the bag.

Black stockings, a collar, bunny ears...

Aldrich had prepared a set of sexy lingerie for her to wear at today's award ceremony?!

She dialed the phone, and after a long wait, the other side finally answered.

"You want me to attend dressed like this?"

Aldrich replied coldly, "Darlene, this is the punishment for hurting Minnie."

"I told you when we got married, I would be endlessly tolerant of you, except for one thing—Minnie is my bottom line."

Only now did Darlene remember his flushed eyes as he looked at the audience when they exchanged rings.

"Darlene, from today you will be my wife. I will spoil you, love you, and tolerate you."

"But Minnie is my niece. I raised her myself, and she is the one responsibility I can never let go of, my bottom line."

At that moment, she was even moved by Aldrich's sense of responsibility.

She nodded solemnly, promising to treat Minerva as well as he did.

She thought the tears Aldrich shed at that moment were for her.

Only now did she realize, he cried for Minerva in the audience.

Aldrich's voice pulled her back from her memories.

"I hope this is the last time you hurt Minnie. Otherwise... I'll send Vincent somewhere even farther away."

The call was mercilessly cut off. Darlene stared at the clothes scattered on the floor, pounding her fists on the ground with a guttural scream.

"Aldrich, you bastard!"

When Darlene appeared on the big screen, a wave of shock erupted both inside and outside the venue.

The director's camera swept over her from head to toe, finally lingering on her ashen face.

The trending topic exploded within a minute.

"Darlene disrupts the award ceremony in lingerie"

"Darlene goes into the adult industry"

"Darlene, the star with no boundaries, will be boycotted and banned online"

***

Minerva watched Darlene on the big screen, desperately trying to cover herself with her hands, and a slow smile crept onto her lips.

She lowered her head and sent out the message she had just edited.

"The show can begin now."

Suddenly, chaos broke out in the audience. Several masked people bypassed security and ran straight toward the celebrity seats.

Before Darlene could react, a rotten egg smashed into her face.

"Shameless! People like you deserve a bad end! Disgusting!"

"Darlene, you'll do anything for fame? People with no limits like you don't deserve to live!"

"Today, I'm going to teach you a lesson on behalf of all the viewers online, you bitch!"

***

All cameras focused on her. After five minutes of insults and attacks, security finally arrived, but too late.

"Ms. Heath, we've just spoken with backstage. No one invited you to this award ceremony. You are trespassing."

"Please leave immediately. For the negative impact you've caused, our lawyers will file a lawsuit soon. Please cooperate."

Darlene didn't even dare to look up at the big screen. She kept her head down, feeling every gaze stabbing into her like a knife.

Originally, she was supposed to be the star of tonight's ceremony, wearing her favorite gown, receiving applause and her trophy.

But everything was ruined by Aldrich.

He personally pushed her into hell, determined to destroy her reputation and ensure she would never recover.

She ran out of the venue, and only when she got into the car did her tears finally fall.

But she had no time to dwell on the humiliation and injustice. With trembling hands, she dialed Aldrich's number.

"I did everything you asked! Where's Vince?"

There was a long silence on the other end, making Darlene increasingly anxious.

"Aldrich!"

"Darlene, calm down," Aldrich finally spoke. "Vincent... he saw your news just now and ran out of the car. We haven't found him yet."

"I've already sent all the bodyguards out to look for him..."

The phone slipped from Darlene's palm.

She started the car in a panic, but had no idea which direction to go.

Los Angeles was so big, with so many cars—what if...

Darlene didn't dare to think any further.

Until her phone rang again, she answered in a panic, hoping it was news that Vincent had been found.

But the voice on the other end was Minerva's.

"Darlene, Vincent is just as stupid as you. My people only told him you couldn't bear the humiliation and jumped into the sea, and he actually believed it and went to save you."

"Your whole family of idiots still wants to take what's mine? The Best Actress and Mrs. Hinton titles are both mine!"

"If you know what's good for you, just disappear quietly. Otherwise, I don't mind sending you to the underworld so your whole family can be reunited."

Minerva's voice continued, but Darlene couldn't hear anything anymore.

She floored the gas pedal and sped to the seaside. When she got out of the car, her legs felt as heavy as lead, unable to move.

A crowd had gathered on the beach. She walked over, trembling, her eyes fixed on the person lying on the ground.

Until the police turned the body over, revealing a face she knew all too well.

In that instant, Darlene's world spun out of control.

The one who used to chase after her calling 'Darla', who would secretly slip delicious food into her pocket, who always put her first and protected her, would never appear again.

From this moment on, she had no family left in this world.

It wasn't until the funeral home staff placed the urn in Darlene's arms that the despair and pain stuck in her throat finally erupted in a scream.

"Vince... I'm sorry."

"I won't let them get away with this!"

After placing Vincent's urn beside her mother's grave, Darlene sat in the cemetery all night.

When dawn broke, she stood at the intersection like a walking corpse, watching the big screen replay the award ceremony.

"Now, let's welcome Mr. Hinton to present the Best Actress award to Minerva!"

Thunderous applause filled the air. Aldrich, dressed in a suit and beaming, placed the heavy trophy in Minerva's hands.

"Congratulations, you truly deserve it."

Minerva excitedly threw herself into his arms, wrapping her hands tightly around his neck. Only when the camera swept over did she shyly cover her face.

"Sorry, I'm just too happy."

"Although someone deliberately disrupted the event, it doesn't matter. I still got my award. Thank you, Mr. Hinton, for your trust and encouragement, and also thanks to..."

Darlene watched the two on the screen coldly, her eyes flashing with icy light.

Until a black, unlicensed sedan stopped in front of her. The window rolled down, revealing a deep-set, rugged face.

"Ms. Heath, the encrypted files have been cracked."

"You can move forward with what you want to do."

Darlene got into the car, took one last look at the big screen, and whispered, "Aldrich, goodbye."