My Husband's Mistress Dug Up My Babies' Ashes For A TikTok Trend

Mrs. Moretti! Something terrible happened!

The maid came running into the living room so fast she nearly crashed into the marble table. Her face was ghostly white, her entire body trembling.

Miss Claudia brought people to the memorial garden. She dug up the young masters urns! She said she wants to turn their ashes into fireworks...

The teacup slipped from my fingers and shattered across the floor. For a second, I could not understand what I had just heard.

My twins? My babies? Fireworks?

My chest locked so violently I could barely breathe. I ran out of the mansion barefoot, not even feeling the sharp stone slicing into my feet as I sprinted toward the private memorial garden behind the estate.

But the moment I arrived, my entire world collapsed.

The marble memorial site had been destroyed. Soil covered the ground. The flower arrangements were trampled under expensive shoes. And the small white urns that carried what little remained of my children were sitting carelessly on the grass beside metal fireworks shells like garbage.

And Claudia was standing there smiling.

The twenty two year old secretary Xanders hired three months ago. The same girl who now sat beside him at every banquet as if she was the lady of the house.

Careful! Claudia laughed while directing the workers. Dont spill too much. I watched tiktok videos online and they said baby ashes make the prettiest fireworks. Apparently the younger they are, the brighter the colors. I want them posted tiktok live!

My vision went black for a second.

STOP!!!

My scream ripped through the garden so violently that every worker froze.

Claudia turned toward me slowly, blinking with fake innocence. Oh! She smiled sweetly. Mrs. Moretti. Perfect timing! We were just about to light the first one.

I stared at the urn in the workers hands and felt my knees nearly buckle. Inside that urn were my children, Kyle and Cora. My son who used to cry whenever thunderstorms scared him. My daughter who slept holding my finger every night. Both murdered four years ago during a mafia ambush meant for the Moretti family. And now their ashes were being stuffed into fireworks.

What the hell are you doing...? My voice sounded broken even to myself.

Claudia tilted her head curiously. Making memories? I mean... keeping ashes in a box forever is so depressing, Lorraine! Like duh? She pointed excitedly at the fireworks shells. But this? This is beautiful. Your twins can finally light up the sky together. Don't you like that?

I stared at her in horror. Was she insane?

They're my children!

Yeah, I know they are your children. She nodded casually. Thats why this is extra meaningful! Then she giggled. Honestly, I think this is way cuter than a funeral.

How dare you! How fucking dare you touch them?

Claudia pouted immediately. Why are you acting like this? she whined. Theyre already dead, Lorraine. Ashes. Gone. Its not like they can feel it. Then she lowered her voice conspiratorially. Besides, cremated babies are super expensive online. Some people even turn them into jewelry. I thought fireworks were more creative

SLAP!

The sound echoed across the garden.

Claudia gasped dramatically and stumbled backward, covering her cheek while tears instantly filled her eyes.

Lorraine!

A tall figure stormed into the garden surrounded by bodyguards.

Xander Moretti.

The mafia boss of the Golden Lion Empire. CEO of Moretti Global Holdings. The man who once collapsed beside our twins coffins and swore he would destroy everyone responsible for their deaths.

He shoved me back hard enough that I nearly fell onto the stone pathway.

What the fuck is wrong with you?! he snapped.

Then immediately, his expression softened as he turned toward Claudia. You okay, baby?

Baby?

Right in front of our childrens graves.

Claudias lips trembled as she leaned against his chest. I was only trying to do something special for the twins, she whispered weakly. I thought turning them into fireworks would be romantic and meaningful. She sniffled. Lorraine hates me because you like me.

Xander wrapped an arm protectively around her waist and looked at me with cold irritation.

The fuck, Lorraine. Can you stop acting insane for once?

I stared at him like he was a stranger. She dug up our children.

So? he said flatly. They've been dead for four years.

What?!

The words hit harder than the ambush bullets ever could. I physically stepped back. Did he really just say that?

Xander sighed impatiently like I was exhausting him. Claudia got curious and asked if she could try it. I said yes. End of story.

What? Try it?

Our babies were not some fucking science experiment! I started laughing through my tears because if I stopped laughing, I thought I might completely lose my mind.

Xander... My voice cracked violently. Those....those are our children.

His jaw tightened for half a second before his face turned cold again. They're gone, Lorraine. Move on!

I remembered my twins covered in blood inside that overturned SUV. I remembered screaming until my throat tore apart. I remembered Xander holding their tiny bodies while shaking so hard he could barely stand. And now he was letting another woman turn them into fireworks?

He pulled me aside and lowered his voice impatiently. Lory, stop making a fucking scene will you?

I looked at him in disbelief. The woman youre fucking dug up our babies and you tell me I'm making a scene?!

Shes young, he muttered. She got excited about the idea. Youre blowing this way out of proportion.

Out of proportion? Was I losing my mind? Had he destroyed me so completely that I could no longer recognize cruelty when it stood right in front of me?

Xander rubbed his forehead. Listen carefully. The woman I married is still you. Claudia is just something entertaining. Something fun.

My stomach twisted violently.

Shes temporary, Lorraine. Temporary fun. Ill get bored eventually.

I stared at him like I had never known this man at all. Did he hear himself? Did he honestly think those words fixed anything?

But right now, he continued calmly, I like her very much. So nobody touches her. Not even you.

Tears kept pouring down my face. For three months, that girl stole my clothes and my jewelry and you told me to ignore it.

Silence.

She sat on your lap at parties while everyone laughed at me and you told me to stay quiet.

Still silence.

And now shes digging up our dead children... My voice shattered completely. And you still expect me to endure it? What kind of husband are you?!

I was crying so hard I could barely stand anymore. But Xander only looked at me coldly and somehow, that hurt even more than the graves themselves. Because four years ago, this man once cried so hard over our twins that doctors had to sedate him. Now he looked at their ashes like they were nothing.

Xander didnt even look at me. He just pulled Claudia closer by the waist and said calmly, Go ahead, baby. Do it... Im here. Nobodys gonna touch you.

My whole body went cold.

Xander!

I completely lost it and rushed forward but before I could reach it, his guards grabbed me roughly from behind.

Let me go! I screamed, fighting so hard my wrists burned in their hands. You cant do this! Those are Kyle and Cora!

Xanders face darkened slightly from my screaming. He lifted a hand impatiently. Hold her still.

The guards tightened their grip immediately.

I looked at him in disbelief. Was this really the same man who once cried while holding our children in the hospital nursery?

Xander! If she burns their ashes, I swear to God, Ill hate you for the rest of my life.

For one second, something shifted in his eyes but quickly disappeared. Lory, stop fucking making this harder than it needs to be. Then he turned away from me completely like I wasnt even worth looking at anymore. He walked back to Claudias side and gently fixed the sleeve of her coat because she said she felt cold.

Meanwhile I was on the ground breaking apart.

Claudia smiled excitedly and carefully poured Kyle and Coras ashes into the custom fireworks tubes. Xander, look! I think its gonna work.

He kissed the top of her head. Good girl.

Then the fireworks exploded.

The night sky lit up in bright colors, gold, blue, red, purple. The entire Moretti estate glowed under the lights while everyone stared upward in shock.

Claudia clapped happily like a little kid. She quickly pulled out her phone and went live on TikTok, holding it up toward the sky. Oh my God! Watch this fireworks! Is it colorful?! Its Cora and Kyle Morettis ashes inside so beautiful.

She turned the camera towards me, grinning maniacally. I know those kids are happy now watching their ashes turn into colorful lights in the sky. Am I right, Lorraine?

The lens focused directly on me, capturing my face streaked with tears as I sobbed uncontrollably on the grass.

Beautiful?

I collapsed onto the ground completely. My chest hurt so badly I thought I was dying, and all I could do was stare at the fireworks exploding above me while tears blurred my vision.

Kyle... I sobbed brokenly. Cora...

My babies.

Those were my babies... Now they were nothing but colors in the sky for someone elses entertainment.

I covered my mouth and cried so hard I couldnt breathe. How did we end up here? How did Xander become this person?

We grew up together. Everybody in the city knew Xander Moretti was obsessed with me long before he became the mafia boss of the Golden Lion Empire and CEO of Moretti Global Properties.

When we were kids, he followed me everywhere like a shadow.

Lory, wait for me.

Lory, look what I got you.

Lory, dont cry.

Back then, if I even frowned, hed panic.

I was scared of thunderstorms as a teenager, so he sat outside my bedroom door the entire night with a gun in his lap just to make me feel safe. I once mentioned liking white roses, and a week later every garden in our estate was filled with them. When I got sick during winter, he shut down an entire business meeting in Hong Kong just to fly home because I told him I missed him.

That was Xander; cold to the world and gentle only to me.

Everyone feared him. Mafia bosses, politicians, CEOs. Nobody dared cross him. But hed kneel in front of me to tie my heels if I got tired.

When he proposed to me, he got down on one knee in front of the entire Moretti family and said, I dont give a damn who disagrees. Lorraines the only woman Ill ever have.

And for years... he really did love me.

Or maybe I was stupid enough to believe he did.

Then Claudia appeared three months ago.

A twenty two year old secretary he hired after she accidentally slapped him during one of his drunken nights. He told me later he thought she was me at first, but when he tried touching her, she shoved him away and slapped him across the face.

Nobody had ever done that to Xander before.

Instead of getting angry, he became obsessed.

He searched the entire city to find her again.

Turns out she was a girl I once helped. Some poor college dropout being harassed outside one of Moretti Globals buildings.

I saved her because I felt bad for her.

God, what a joke.

Xander moved her into headquarters after that, then beside his office, then beside his bed.

Im not interested in rich men, she used to tell him proudly and Xander loved hearing that shit.

She acted like she was different from every woman around him and he got addicted to chasing her.

Shes interesting, Lory, he told me once while adjusting his cufflinks casually. Nobody says no to me. I wanna see how long she lasts.

I remember staring at him in disbelief. Youre humiliating me.

He walked over and held my face gently back then. The woman I love is still you.

Those words ruined me because I believed them.

Shes temporary, he whispered. Once Im bored, Ill come back to you fully. Just tolerate her for now, baby.

So I endured everything. Claudia wearing my clothes. Sitting in his lap at public events. Mocking me inside my own house. Sleeping in his mansion while I cried alone in our bedroom.

And now? Now she burned my childrens ashes while he stood beside her smiling.

The fireworks slowly disappeared from the sky and darkness returned to the estate. My ears rang loudly and my body suddenly felt numb.

I looked at Xander one last time. He was still standing beside Claudia while she laughed happily in his arms.

And I realized something terrifying. The man I loved was gone. My vision suddenly turned black and everything disappeared.

I had a long dream.

In the dream, Xander was still mine. Not this cold monster standing beside another woman while my world burned around me.

No.

He was still the boy who used to sneak into my room during thunderstorms because I couldnt sleep alone. Still the reckless teenager who drove across the entire city at two in the morning because I casually said I wanted strawberry pastries. Still the man who held my hands after Kyle and Cora were born and cried harder than I did. Still the man who promised me forever.

Lory, he whispered in that dream while kissing my forehead softly, Ill never let anyone hurt you. Never.

Then why did you become the person who destroyed me the most?

Mrs. Moretti! Youre awake!

My eyes slowly opened.

My personal maid was kneeling beside the bed crying so hard her shoulders shook.

Oh my God! Thank God... she sobbed. How could Mr. Moretti treat you this way after everything? After Kyle and Cora...

I turned my face away quietly. My head hurt. My chest hurt worse.

The entire mansion felt empty even though it was worth hundreds of millions.

My maid kept talking angrily through tears. Hes gone too far this time. Burning their ashes? Letting that woman humiliate you? If your mother was alive, shed be heartbroken seeing this...

Enough, I whispered weakly. Please. I just wanna be alone.

She hesitated before finally leaving.

The room turned silent, and the second the door closed, tears started falling again. I cried quietly into my pillow because I was too exhausted to even make a sound anymore.

How pathetic had I become?

I used to be Lorraine Sinclair. Daughter of one of the most powerful families in the country. Now I was just the wife everybody pitied. The wife whose husband openly paraded his mistress around like a prize.

After a while, I slowly reached for my phone on the bedside table and stared at one particular number saved there. The emergency number my father gave me years ago.

He once told me quietly, No matter how many decades pass, if you call this number, someone from the Sinclair family will answer.

My fingers trembled as I pressed dial it. The call connected almost instantly.

Miss Lorraine.

Just hearing that voice shattered something inside me all over again.

I wanna leave, I whispered. My voice trembled violently. I wanna disappear from this place.

The man on the other end immediately went silent.

I wiped my tears slowly and forced the words out.

Help me fake my death.

The line became completely still for two seconds then his voice came calm and firm.

Itll be done.

How long?

eleven days, he answered quietly. Give me eleven days and everything will be ready.

I looked toward the giant glass windows overlooking the city skyline. The moonlight looked so cold tonight just like Xander.

A broken laugh escaped my lips.

Xander, I whispered softly to myself, if you stopped loving me... then Ill leave you first.

Because I couldnt survive this anymore. I couldnt survive watching him destroy me piece by piece.

...

The next morning, Xander came to my room like nothing had happened.

Several staff members followed behind him carrying expensive gift boxes from luxury brands. Diamonds. Rare jewelry. Designer bags. Limited edition watches.

The usual things he threw at me whenever he wanted to shut me up.

Lory, he said calmly while loosening his tie, about yesterday... yeah, shit got messy.

Messy? Was that what he called it now?

He waved a hand toward the gifts. I had the guys bring you some things. Pick whatever you want.

I stared at him silently. There was nothing left inside me anymore.

I dont want any of it.

His brows pulled together immediately. Dont fucking start acting difficult again.

Again?

That word hurt.

Xander sighed heavily and sat down on the couch.

Im busy as hell, Lorraine. I dont have time to keep calming you down every five fucking minutes.

My chest tightened painfully.

I remembered years ago when he canceled a billion dollar meeting in Tokyo because I got upset he came home late for our anniversary dinner.

Back then he held me all night and said, Baby, nothing matters more than you.

Now he couldnt even pretend to care.

I opened my mouth to speak but suddenly loud footsteps interrupted us.

I dont want this crap! Xander! I hate these!

Claudia stormed into the room carrying several expensive boxes before throwing them onto the floor dramatically.

The staff looked terrified but Xander just smiled.

What now? he asked gently. You dont like those either?

No, Claudia huffed while crossing her arms. You cant just buy me off every time.

There was teasing in her voice. Xander chuckled softly under his breath.

Alright then, baby. Tell me what you want and Ill get it.

I stared at him quietly. So he still knew how to be patient. Still knew how to spoil someone gently.

It just wasnt me anymore.

Then Claudias eyes suddenly landed on my wrist.

Oh. Her face lit up instantly. That bracelets pretty.

My entire body stiffened. Instinctively, I covered it with my hand.

No. My voice came out too fast. Too desperate.

You cant have this.

The silver bracelet around my wrist was old and delicate, engraved with tiny family initials.

My mother gave it to me before she died. Before Kyle and Cora were even born. It had been passed down from mother to daughter in my family for generations. It was the only thing left that still made me feel connected to home.

Xander frowned immediately. Its just a bracelet.

No... Its not just a bracelet.

Claudia pouted dramatically. But I like it. Xander, do something!

Xander looked annoyed now. For fucks sake, Lorraine. Just give it to her.

I stared at him like he slapped me.

Ill buy you ten better ones, he continued impatiently. Custom made if you want. Diamonds, platinum, whatever.

Tears filled my eyes instantly. He didnt remember. Of course he didnt.

Do you even know what this bracelet is? I whispered.

Xander answered casually, Your mother gave it to you before she died. Some old family heirloom shit.

That was it.

Not the bracelet my mother kissed onto my wrist while telling me to stay strong no matter what happened. Not the bracelet she wore while raising me. Not the bracelet meant to be passed down to my daughter someday.

Just some old family heirloom shit.

Something inside me went cold. Didnt he once hold this bracelet in his hands and tell me hed protect it forever because it was part of me? How could someone forget love this easily?

Its been years, Lory, Xander said flatly. You need to let go of the past. Lol.

Then before I could react, he grabbed my wrist hard and ripped the bracelet off.

Ah! The sharp metal scraped my skin painfully. A red mark instantly appeared around my wrist.

I gasped and clutched my arm while tears burned my eyes. Xander! My voice shook. Please...

But he already handed it to Claudia. She held the bracelet up under the light, smiling happily. Its actually really pretty, baby! I like it.

Xander leaned closer to her with that low dangerous voice that used to belong only to me. If we ever have a daughter, he murmured softly, Ill buy you something even better.

My heart stopped. For a second, I genuinely thought I heard wrong.

A daughter?

Claudias face turned red instantly.

Who said I wanna have your babies? she laughed while lightly hitting his chest.

Xander smirked and grabbed her waist. Yeah? Keep talking shit.

She squealed and ran out of the room laughing while he followed after her like nothing else in the world mattered.

I forced myself off the bed and stumbled after him weakly.

Xander... you promised me. Tears finally spilled uncontrollably down my face. You said youd love me forever...

But he was already gone and I collapsed onto the floor shaking.

The next few days passed in a blur. I barely ate, barely slept and most of the time I just stared out the window feeling numb, looking at my twins album while Anna cried behind my back because she thought I couldnt hear her.

By the fourth day, she finally forced me out of bed.

You cant keep rotting in this room, Mrs. Moretti, she whispered gently while helping me walk. Please... just get some fresh air.

As if air could fix any of this. Still, I let her guide me outside into the private gardens behind the estate.

The Golden Lion estate was massive. Bigger than some luxury resorts. Artificial waterfalls. Imported flowers. Private roads. Everything built by Xander for me once upon a time.

Now it felt like a prison.

As we walked behind one of the stone walls near the lower gardens, I suddenly heard several maids gossiping nearby.

I swear Mr. Morettis completely obsessed with Miss Claudia.

Obviously. Did you see the new Ducati motorcycles he bought for her? Over twenty custom bikes just because she said she wanted to learn riding.

Thats nothing. Mr. Moretti personally taught her himself yesterday. They were riding together all night.

The last woman he treated like that was Mrs. Moretti.

My chest tightened painfully.

I still cant believe he let Miss Claudia burn Kyle and Coras ashes into fireworks. Thats actually insane.

I gripped my sleeve tightly. So everyone was talking about it now. Everyone knew how pathetic I was. Before I could move, the loud roar of a motorcycle echoed through the garden.

My head lifted automatically And there they were. Xander and Claudia.

She was sitting in front of him on a black Ducati, laughing loudly while the wind blew through her hair. She wore some tiny off shoulder crop top and ripped shorts that barely covered anything. The second Xander noticed it, his face darkened immediately.

Baby, he muttered irritably, can you stop wearing shit like this outside?

Claudia laughed. Why? You jealous?

Damn right I am.

She grinned teasingly. In my hometown girls wear this all the time.

Xander looked around coldly at the nearby staff then his voice turned deadly.

All of you. Eyes down. Now. Everyone instantly lowered their heads. If I catch anyone staring at her tits again, he said calmly, Ill fucking blind you.

The maids trembled in fear.

Claudia burst out laughing. Youre fucking insane.

Xander pulled her closer against him and kissed her temple. Only with you.

My chest hurt so badly I thought I might collapse again. Because years ago, a bodyguard once looked at me for too long during a party.

Xander broke the mans jaw with his bare hands.

Back then he told me, Nobody looks at what belongs to me.

Now all that possessiveness belonged to Claudia instead.

Anna squeezed my hand sadly. Mrs. Moretti... lets go.

I nodded weakly and turned away.

But suddenly Claudia shouted excitedly, Wait! I wanna try riding by myself!

Xander sighed. You sure?

Yes!

He finally got off the Ducati reluctantly while still holding onto the handlebars.

Fine. Slow down on the turns and dont panic.

Claudia rolled her eyes playfully. Im not a baby.

The next second, the motorcycle suddenly jerked violently. Her hand twisted the throttle too hard. Everything happened too fast. The Ducati shot forward out of control straight toward me.

Mrs. Moretti!

Anna screamed and tried pulling me away but my body was still too weak. The motorcycle slammed into me hard and pain exploded through my stomach as I crashed onto the pavement.

I heard Anna screaming. Heard brakes screeching then another crushing pain hit my abdomen.

And everything went black.

I dont know how long I was unconscious.

Everything felt blurry and far away, like I was trapped underwater while voices echoed around me. I heard Anna crying somewhere near me.

Please do something! Shes bleeding so much and nobodys helping her! she sobbed desperately. Call another doctor! Please!

Another nurse answered nervously, Im sorry, but Mr. Moretti already called all the specialists upstairs for Miss Claudias checkup. Theres nobody available right now.

My heart shattered quietly inside my chest. Even after I got hit by a motorcycle. Even after I was bleeding on the ground, he still chose her first.

Tears slid silently down my face into the pillow.

Part of me wished Id never wake up again.

Maybe dying would hurt less than loving Xander now.

When I finally opened my eyes again, I found myself inside a small hospital room at Golden Lion Hospital. Not the luxury VIP floors owned by the Moretti family. Just an ordinary room with white walls, cheap curtains, and basic machines beside the bed.

My stomach hurt so badly I could barely breathe. Every tiny movement felt like something was tearing inside me but honestly, my heart hurt worse. Before I could even sit up properly, the hospital room door suddenly slammed open so hard it hit the wall.

Xander walked straight to my bed and ripped the blanket off me roughly.

Get the hell up, he ordered coldly. Youre coming with me.

I stared at him weakly, confused. Xander...?

His jaw tightened impatiently. Go apologize to Claudia.

I actually thought I misheard him.

What...?

He grabbed my arm harshly and forced me upright. Pain exploded through my stomach instantly and I cried out, almost collapsing right there.

Xander, stop... Tears filled my eyes immediately. Please, it hurts... I cant walk properly...

But he didnt loosen his grip. Not even a little.

His face stayed completely emotionless.

She got scared because of you, he said sharply. Do you even realize what kind of panic attack she had after the accident? Shes still shaking upstairs.

I looked at him in disbelief.

She hit me with the motorcycle...

She lost control because you suddenly appeared there! he snapped back. Fuck, Lorraine, do you have to make everything about yourself?

Something inside me went silent after hearing that.

I stared at the man I once loved more than my own life and suddenly started laughing softly. Not because anything was funny. Because I think my heart finally broke completely.

Xander frowned. What the hell are you laughing at?

Tears rolled down my cheeks while I looked at him.

What if I dont apologize? I whispered painfully. What then? Are you gonna kill me too?

His expression changed slightly. Stop talking crazy, he muttered. You know damn well I still care about you.

Care?

What a cruel word.

He sighed and rubbed his forehead like I was exhausting him. My feelings for you never changed, alright? Claudias just something new. Something exciting. Dont force me to keep explaining the same shit over and over! Then he grabbed my wrist again and dragged me off the bed.

I cried out from the pain immediately. Xander please... I begged weakly while stumbling beside him. Im bleeding...

But he kept walking.

Poor woman look at her, she can barely stand.

Hes dragging her like a ragdoll. Doesnt he see shes hurt?

I feel so sorry for Miss Lorraine. He used to love her so much before that witch came.

Her bandages are red again shes losing so much blood.

Their whispers pierced my ears, but Xander acted like he heard nothing. My hospital gown brushed against my legs while warm blood slowly soaked through the bandages around my stomach again, and still he didnt stop..

The elevator opened directly onto the luxury VIP floor. The difference between our rooms made me feel sick. Mine looked like somewhere strangers went to die quietly.

Claudias private suite looked like a five star hotel with a private kitchen, luxury furniture, fresh flowers everywhere, and several doctors standing around her nervously.

And Claudia herself? She's perfectly fine. She was sitting comfortably on the couch eating strawberries while watching TV. The moment she saw me, she immediately frowned and leaned closer to Xander.

Why does she look at me like that? she complained softly. Im the one who got traumatized.

I almost laughed again. Traumatized? I was the one lying in blood on the pavement. But suddenly I felt too tired to fight anymore... So tired.

I lowered my head quietly. Im sorry, I whispered. I shouldnt have disturbed Miss Claudia.

Anna looked devastated behind me but Claudia still looked unhappy.

Pff! That apology doesnt sound sincere at all, she huffed while crossing her arms. Youre acting like I bullied you or something.

I clenched my fists silently.

In my hometown, Claudia continued proudly, people apologize properly when they hurt someone. Not like this cold rich people nonsense.

Xander nodded immediately like everything she said made perfect sense.

Shes right.

Then Claudia suddenly smiled sweetly.

You know what? Ill forgive you if you cook for me.

I looked up slowly.

What?

Im hungry, she said casually. And I heard youre good at cooking. I want a full dinner. Like... a really huge one. Make it yourself.

Anna looked horrified. Mrs. Moretti can barely stand!

Claudia shrugged. Then dont force her. I guess she just doesnt feel sorry.

Xander looked at me coldly.

Go cook.

My stomach twisted painfully. Xander... My voice shook badly. Im injured.

Youll survive, he answered indifferently. Doctors are right here if something happens.

Something happens.

Like I wasnt already falling apart in front of him.

I stopped arguing after that because what was the point anymore? I dragged my weak body toward the private kitchen inside Claudias suite while trying not to cry from the pain every time I moved. The floor felt cold under my feet and my hands shook so badly I could barely hold the knife properly.

Still, I cooked.

Soup. Steak. Pasta. Seafood.

Dish after dish while sweat and tears mixed together down my face. Several times I had to grip the counter because the pain in my stomach got so bad my vision blurred, but every time I slowed down, Claudia found another problem.

This steaks overcooked.

The soups too salty.

I wanted truffle pasta, not cream pasta! Xander, why can't she cook properly? I'm starting to get annoyed.

Xander sat beside her the whole time saying nothing. Not once did he tell her to stop. Not once did he look at me with concern.

Hours passed.

By the time I finished the last dish, my legs were shaking so badly I could barely stay standing. I carried the tray toward Claudia with numb hands.

Then one of the nurses suddenly gasped loudly.

Oh my God! Mrs. Moretti!

I looked down slowly.

Blood was dripping heavily from beneath my hospital gown onto the white floor tiles. Anna screamed my name and rushed toward me.

I tried opening my mouth. I tried saying something but the room suddenly spun around me and everything went black again.

When I woke up again, the doctor was already standing beside my bed with his head lowered. Anna was crying quietly in the corner.

The second I saw their faces, I already knew. Still, my voice came out shaking. What happened...?

The doctor hesitated before speaking carefully. Mrs. Moretti... you were pregnant.

My entire body froze. Pregnant?

My hand slowly moved to my stomach without thinking. No... I whispered weakly.

The doctor looked devastated. The injury and blood loss were too severe. We couldnt save the baby.

The room went completely silent... I stared blankly at the ceiling. Another baby. Another child gone.

And suddenly all I could remember was Xander years ago when I got pregnant with Kyle and Cora.

He was insane with happiness back then.

The terrifying mafia boss the whole country feared had cried while kneeling beside me in our bathroom because the pregnancy test came back positive.

He canceled meetings. Canceled shipments. Canceled negotiations with mafia families overseas.

Nothing mattered except me and the babies.

Every night he came home early just to touch my stomach and talk to them.

Daddys here, hed whisper softly.

God.

What happened to us? What happened to him?

Anna broke down crying harder. This is all because of them, she sobbed angrily. They destroyed you...

I slowly rubbed my flat stomach.

There had been a tiny life there. And now there was nothing. Just emptiness. Just like my marriage.

The hospital room door suddenly opened hard.

Xander walked in quickly. For the first time in months, he actually looked shaken.

His hair was messy like hed been running his hands through it for hours. His shirt sleeves were rolled up unevenly and there were dark circles under his eyes.

Lory... His voice sounded rough.

I turned my face away immediately. He walked over fast and sat beside my bed, then tried reaching for my hand but I pulled away.

The movement hurt my body badly but I still did it.

Xander froze for a second before sighing heavily. Well have another baby, you can get pregnant again."

I laughed quietly. Hearing those words from him felt cruel.

Another baby?

No, I whispered weakly while staring at the ceiling. We wont.

He frowned immediately. Whats that supposed to mean?

I didnt answer.

Xander adjusted my blanket carefully. You need rest, he muttered quietly. Ill stay here with you for a few days.

I closed my eyes. I didnt wanna look at him anymore and somehow, he actually stayed.

...

For the next several days, Xander barely left my side. He fed me medicine himself. Helped me sit up. Even brushed my hair once when he thought I was asleep. It almost felt like the old Xander again.

Almost.

But every time I looked at him, all I saw was the man who stood beside Claudia while our childrens ashes exploded in the sky. Nothing could erase that anymore.

I kept asking him to leave and every single time he refused.

Then on the fifth day, everything changed again.

One of his men suddenly burst into the hospital suite looking panicked. Boss! Miss Claudia disappeared!

The glass medicine cup in Xanders hand shattered onto the floor instantly.

He stood up so fast the chair behind him slammed backward. What the fuck do you mean disappeared?

She left the mansion this morning and nobodys been able to find her.

Xander looked genuinely terrified.

I watched him grab his gun and coat immediately. Search the entire damn city!" he barked furiously. Check every hotel, every airport, every fucking highway. I want updates every ten minutes. then he ran out.

I stared at the empty doorway after he left. A bitter smile slowly formed on my lips. So this was what panic looked like when he truly loved someone.

...

The entire Golden Lion estate became tense for the next few days. Nobody dared breathe too loudly around Xander.

Everyone was terrified of setting him off.

Late one night, I finally heard chaos downstairs and I saw Xander carrying Claudia into the mansion himself.

She looked completely fine. I followed slowly behind them despite the pain in my body. Xander placed her gently onto the bed like she was made of glass.

Why the hell would you run away like that? he asked quietly while brushing hair from her face. Do you know what you did to me? I thought something fucking happened to you.

Claudias eyes turned red immediately. I got scared, she whispered. I thought you blamed me for the baby.

Xander looked stunned then he immediately pulled her into his arms. How could I ever blame you for that?

His voice was so gentle it made my chest ache.

You were scared too, he continued softly. And I wasnt there for you enough. Thats on me.

Claudia sniffled dramatically. But you looked so worried about Lorraine that day...

Xander sighed and kissed her forehead. Yeah. I fucked up. Im sorry, baby.

He apologized to her?

Claudia suddenly smiled through her tears. Then write me an apology letter.

Xander blinked. What?

A real one, she laughed. And I wanna dictate it while you write.

Any other person speaking to Xander Moretti like that wouldve disappeared by morning. But him?

He actually smiled helplessly. Youre unbelievable.

Still, he sat down at the desk anyway and started writing exactly what she told him to. I stood outside the room gripping the doorway so hard my nails dug into my palms.

How much did he love her? Enough to throw away his pride? His power? His marriage? Me?

Was this still just a game to him?

...

After that night, I stopped leaving my room.

I just waited quietly for my familys guards to come get me. I only needed to survive eleven days.

Then the Golden Lion anniversary arrived.

The biggest event of the year.

Every mafia family attended. Politicians. CEOs. Arms dealers. Crime syndicates from overseas.

The ballroom looked disgusting in its luxury.

Champagne towers. Diamonds dripping from every womans neck. Men laughing over billion dollar deals while blood money paid for the music playing in the background.

And Claudia sat beside Xander at the center table like she already owned everything.

I sat silently nearby wearing a red dress Anna helped me into because refusing wasnt an option anymore.

Claudia suddenly sighed dramatically. This partys boring.

Xander glanced at her immediately. What do you wanna do instead?

She looked around lazily and her eyes landed on me. She smiled. That smile made my stomach twist instantly.

What if we do a live auction?

The room grew quieter.

Xander frowned slightly. Auction what?

Claudia pointed directly at me. Her.

The entire ballroom froze.

Even I stopped breathing.

Shes gorgeous, Claudia continued casually while sipping wine. All these mafia bosses are already staring at her anyway. Make Lorraine the bidding item tonight.

I looked at Xander in disbelief. Surely even he wouldnt allow this.

Right?

But Claudia leaned against his shoulder sweetly. Come on. Its just for fun.

Xander stayed silent for a long moment. Then his cold eyes slowly turned toward me. Lory... Do it.

My chest tightened painfully. You cant be serious.

Its just entertainment, he replied flatly. Nobodys touching you.

Humiliation burned through me so badly I thought I might throw up. Im your wife.

Xanders expression darkened slightly. And youre embarrassing me by refusing.

Claudia pouted immediately. She wont even dance? Then nobodys gonna bid high.

I stared at Xander desperately. Please dont do this to me.

His voice dropped dangerously low. Dont make this harder than it already is, Lorraine. Then quietly enough that only I could hear, he added, You still have family alive. Dont forget that.

The threat hit me like a punch to the stomach.

I went cold instantly. He really was threatening me now. The same man who once killed for me, protected me, and loved me... Now he was the one destroying me.

Okay, I whispered brokenly. Ill do it.

The music started moments later.

I walked onto the stage feeling completely numb while rich powerful men stared at me like hungry wolves and the bidding began.

Five million.

Ten.

Twenty.

The numbers kept rising while Claudia laughed happily beside Xander. See? she giggled. I told you shed sell well.

I wanted to die.

Still, it wasnt enough for Claudia.

Make her dance too, she said excitedly. The bids will go even higher.

Xander looked at me silently and didnt stop her.

So I danced.

While men watched. While mafia bosses bid money over my body like I was property. While my husband sat beside another woman and allowed it all to happen.

Then suddenly everything exploded into chaos and gunshots rang through the ballroom. Several masked men burst through the entrance with rifles raised.

ASSASSINS! someone screamed.

And the entire ballroom erupted.

The guards surrounded Xander instantly the second the gunshots started. Everything became chaos. People screaming. Tables flipping over, and blood everywhere. I tried stepping back but suddenly something slammed into my shoulder hard.

Bang!

The pain exploded through my body so violently I collapsed immediately. Someone shot me.

I heard Anna scream my name somewhere nearby. Mrs. Moretti!

My vision blurred badly as blood started soaking through my dress. The ballroom spun around me and through the haze, I saw Claudia not far away clutching her arm while crying dramatically.

Shed been shot too.

And Xander?

Xander rushed straight to her. Fuck! he shouted while grabbing her tightly. Claudia! Look at me, baby. Stay awake.

I stared at him from the floor while blood pooled beneath me. Not me. Never me first anymore.

Get the doctors now! Xander roared furiously. Move your asses!

His men immediately carried Claudia away while I stayed lying there barely conscious as people ran past me.

At some point Anna dropped beside me crying hysterically. Shes bleeding too! Please somebody help her!

One of the staff looked nervous. Boss said all surgeons are needed for Miss Claudia first.

I actually laughed weakly after hearing that.

Even dying wasnt enough to make him choose me.

The pain became unbearable after that and everything slowly faded black.

...

When I woke up again, I was already back inside Golden Lion Hospital.

The room smelled like blood and medicine. My shoulder burned horribly and I could barely move.

Outside the room, I suddenly heard Xander screaming. If neither of them fucking survives, Ill shut this hospital down myself!

Doctors apologized nervously while chaos echoed through the hallway. They said the bullets had poison and it was already spreading inside the body.

Then another doctor spoke carefully. Mr. Moretti... theres a problem.

Silence followed.

The antidote medication arrived late and we only have enough prepared for one patient right now. The second dose needs another three hours.

The room became terrifyingly quiet.

I slowly opened my eyes.

Through the partially opened door, I saw Xander standing there holding Claudia tightly against his chest while she looked pale and unconscious.

The doctor swallowed nervously. Who should receive treatment first?

I stared at Xander silently.

Save Claudia first.

That was it.

Four words, and somehow they hurt more than the bullet inside my body.

Memories flooded my head instantly.

Years ago during a hunting trip, I scratched my finger slightly on a broken branch and Xander nearly lost his mind. He carried me all the way back home. Forced three doctors to stay overnight just to monitor me.

Another time I got a fever and he sat beside me for two straight days without sleeping.

Lory, he whispered back then while kissing my forehead, if something ever happens to you, Ill fucking lose my mind.

Now I was dying. And he picked someone else without hesitation.

The poison spreading from the bullet wound started hitting harder after that. My body curled up painfully against the bed while agony ripped through me. It felt like knives were tearing through my veins. Blood spilled from my mouth onto the sheets while I gripped the blanket so tightly my fingers cramped.

Was this death?

Honestly, maybe dying would finally let me rest. Maybe I wouldnt have to hurt anymore.

Just as my consciousness started fading again, I heard footsteps rushing inside.

The second antidotes ready!

Someone immediately lifted my head and forced the bitter medicine down my throat. Slowly, the pain began easing enough for me to breathe again.

When I finally opened my eyes properly, Xander was standing beside my bed.

For once, he actually looked guilty.

Lory... His voice sounded rough. I...

No. My voice came out hoarse and weak, Theres nothing left to explain.

Xander stared at me silently.

And for the first time since we got married, I saw uncertainty in his eyes. Like he suddenly realized something was slipping away from him.

I had no choice, he muttered quietly. Claudia was in worse condition and I thought you could hold on longer.

I looked at him blankly. Did he even hear himself?

You thought I could survive, I whispered. So you abandoned me first.

His face tightened immediately. Dont say it like that.

Then how should I say it?

Silence.

Finally, I turned my face away from him. Im tired, Xander. And I meant it.

Tired of crying, tired of begging, tired of loving someone who kept choosing another woman over me.

Xander stood there for a long time.

Then eventually, he sighed quietly and left the room.

The moment the door closed, I slowly touched my chest. It was strange. I thought it would hurt more.

But honestly, my heart was starting to feel numb now.

...

The next few days passed quietly.

My shoulder slowly healed, but whatever was left inside me kept dying little by little.

The staff whispered outside my room constantly because everyone knew Xander stayed beside Claudia day and night. Feeding her personally. Helping her shower. Sleeping beside her hospital bed. He barely left her room.

Anna came in one morning carrying my medicine with swollen red eyes. Mrs. Moretti, she whispered softly. Its time.

I took the medicine silently and drank it in one go.

It tasted disgusting but it still wasnt as bitter as my life.

...

A few days later, the annual Mafia Oath Ceremony finally arrived. It was one of the biggest events inside the Golden Lion Empire.

Every major mafia family attended. The heads of syndicates. International partners. Politicians secretly tied to the underworld.

It was tradition for Xander and his wife to stand together during the ceremony as the king and queen of the empire.

Anna helped me dress slowly because my shoulder still hurt badly.

When I finally arrived at the grand hall, my footsteps stopped cold.

Claudia was already standing beside Xander.

Wearing the black diamond dress reserved for me.

My place.

One of the older mafia advisors immediately looked horrified. Boss... this breaks tradition, he said carefully. Mrs. Moretti is supposed to stand beside you during the oath.

Xander didnt even look bothered.

His cold eyes swept toward the man. Since when do I need permission for who stands beside me?

The entire hall instantly fell silent. Nobody dared speak again because everyone knew Xander Moretti could destroy entire bloodlines with one order.

Xander, Claudia said excitedly while looking around the massive hall, can I light more candles? This place looks kinda dark.

Xander looked down at her with that soft expression I hated seeing now. Do whatever you want, baby.

She laughed happily and grabbed several long ceremonial candles from the altar table. The older mafia bosses looked uncomfortable but nobody dared speak.

Then suddenly Claudia bumped one of the giant oil lamps by accident.

Crash!

Fire exploded onto the black curtains instantly.

People started shouting.

Fire!

Move!

The flames spread across the wall terrifyingly fast while guards rushed in with extinguishers. Thankfully the fire got controlled quickly, but part of the ceremonial hall was already burned black.

Smoke still filled the air while everyone stared in horror.

One of the senior mafia advisors immediately stepped forward angrily. Boss, this hall represents the entire Golden Lion Empire. Somebody has to answer for this.

Another leader nodded. This cant go unpunished.

The pressure in the room shifted immediately.

Everyone knew Claudia caused the fire. Everyone saw it but nobody dared say her name.

Xander stayed silent for a long moment then slowly, his cold eyes turned toward me. Suddenly I understood everything.

No.

No way!

Lorraine caused the accident, Xander said calmly. Shell take responsibility for it.

My entire body went cold. I stared at him in disbelief. What...?

The room became dead silent.

Xander walked toward me and grabbed my wrist tightly before lowering his voice enough that only I could hear. Claudia cant handle punishment like this, he muttered. Shes emotional already and if I blame her now, shell pull away from me again.

I actually felt my heart crack hearing those words.

He continued quietly, almost patiently. Lory, just help me this once more, alright?

Once more.

How many times had I already sacrificed myself for him?

My voice shook violently. Arent you scared Ill completely give up on you someday?

Xander smiled faintly like my words meant nothing. You wont. The confidence in his voice hurt worse than screaming wouldve. We grew up together, he said softly. You love me too much to leave me. You won't even last a day. Just wait a little longer until Im done with Claudia and everythingll go back to normal.

Normal?

What part of this was normal anymore?

I looked at the man standing in front of me and suddenly felt exhausted.

...

That night, Xander publicly announced my punishment.

Three days.

I was chained outside the Golden Lion headquarters as a warning to everyone.

And nobody dared object. The heavy chains wrapped tightly around my wrists and body, locking me against the massive front gates of Golden Lion headquarters while icy wind hit me nonstop.

A giant black sign hung above my head.

I DESERVE PUNISHMENT.

People gathered constantly outside the gates staring at me like I was some criminal.

Isnt that Mrs. Moretti?

I heard she almost burned down the oath hall.

Boss Moretti personally ordered the punishment.

The humiliation was unbearable and it only got worse. Some people started throwing trash at me.

Rotten fruit, alcohol bottles, food scraps and even human pee.

One man threw a rock so hard it slammed against my forehead. The pain exploded instantly and warm blood ran down my face. I bit my lip hard to stop myself from crying out.

By the third night, my body finally gave up. My vision blurred heavily while voices echoed around me.

Then I heard Anna screaming desperately. Mrs. Moretti!

When I woke up again, I was back inside the Moretti mansion. A doctor had already bandaged my wounds but my body still ached everywhere.

Honestly, my heart hurts more.

The bedroom door suddenly opened and Xander walked in carrying a bowl of soup. For once, he actually looked concerned.

Lory, I had them make mushroom soup for you. You need strength after what happened. He reached out to touch my face gently but I turned away immediately.

The atmosphere instantly changed.

Dont start this again, he muttered impatiently. I already explained why I did it.

I stayed silent.

He sighed heavily. Youre alive, arent you? Nothing serious happened in the end.

That sentence finally killed the last tiny piece of hope inside me.

My voice came out quiet. Get out.

Xander frowned immediately. What?

I SAID GET OUT!

The room turned silent. He stared at me for a long time like he couldnt understand what was happening. Like he genuinely expected me to still wait for him forever no matter how badly he hurt me.

Finally, irritation flashed across his face. Fine, he muttered coldly while standing up. Keep acting like this then.

Then he walked out.

A few days later, Xander came back to my mansion again. And for the first time in months, he actually looked happy. Not the cold fake smile he used around business partners, just real happiness.

It hurt me instantly because I already knew it had nothing to do with me.

He walked toward me while loosening his tie casually. Lory, Claudias birthday is coming up.

I stayed quiet.

She wants to be Mrs. Moretti for a day.

My fingers froze slightly. Xander didnt notice, or maybe he did and simply didnt care anymore.

She wants the full thing, he added calmly. Your closet, your diamonds, the seat beside me at the birthday gala. Your wedding ring. She wants to experience what its like being my wife.

My wife.

I almost laughed because was I even his wife anymore?

Xander crouched slightly in front of me while his voice softened. Im close to finally getting her completely, Lory, so just let her have this one thing, alright?

One thing.

Everything had already become hers. My place, my husband, my home, even my dead childrens ashes.

What was left for me to lose now?

So I smiled softly. Okay, I hope both of you stay happy forever.

Xander looked surprised immediately like he expected another fight or another breakdown.

His brows furrowed slightly while staring at me, and for one brief second, something in his eyes almost looked uncertain then it disappeared.

The excitement returned again.

Good, he said quietly. I knew youd understand me eventually.

...

On Claudias birthday, the entire Moretti estate looked like a royal wedding. Luxury cars lined up outside while mafia leaders arrived carrying gifts worth millions.

The media stayed outside the gates hoping for even one photo of the mysterious woman Xander Moretti was publicly obsessed with.

And Claudia?

She walked down the staircase wearing my black diamond gown while my wedding diamonds rested around her neck. Even my wedding ring sat proudly on her finger.

She looked thrilled.

Meanwhile I stood nearby wearing a plain black servant dress because Claudia wanted the full experience.

Honestly, I felt nothing anymore. Maybe my heart finally died for real.

There, Claudia said happily while sitting beside Xanders seat at the head table. Now this finally feels right.

Then she looked at me lazily and snapped her fingers. Tea. And make it properly this time, okay? Im not interested in drinking burnt garbage on my birthday.

I walked over silently and poured it for her. The moment the cup touched her lips, she frowned dramatically. Ew. What the hell is this? she complained loudly. Are you trying to burn my mouth because youre jealous?

Before I could answer, she suddenly threw the tea straight at me. The burning liquid splashed across my chest and hands instantly, and pain stung my skin immediately.

Several people nearby froze awkwardly. Claudia only rolled her eyes and laughed softly. God, you cant even serve tea properly. No wonder Xander got tired of you.

My hands trembled slightly from the pain. Still, I lowered my head quietly. Im sorry. Ill make another one.

Honestly, even my own voice sounded dead now.

Claudia clicked her tongue dramatically. Youre seriously so depressing lately, she sighed. Can somebody teach her how to smile already? Shes ruining my birthday mood.

Then she leaned happily against Xander. I get it now, she laughed smugly. Power really does feel addictive. Honestly, I kinda love having people obey me too.

Xander chuckled softly and pinched her cheek gently. As long as youre having fun.

I stood there silently while watching them flirt in front of hundreds of people. At some point, I stopped feeling embarrassed... it was just exhaustion now.

...

Later that night after most guests left, Claudia wrapped her arms around Xanders neck dramatically. Fine, she teased softly. Since youre so hopelessly obsessed with me, I guess Ill finally say yes to us. I'm your girlfriend now.

Xander looked at her intensely. Yeah?

But you have to promise youll only love me from now on, Claudia added while smiling playfully. No more caring about other women just because theyre familiar.

The room suddenly felt suffocating because I already knew his answer before he even spoke.

Xander didnt hesitate. I swear.

My chest still hurt hearing it anyway.

He kissed her hard right in front of me like I wasnt even there. Like I wasnt his wife of over ten years.

Claudia laughed breathlessly while he pulled her against him. Baby, she whispered shyly while glancing toward me, your wifes still standing there. This is kinda embarrassing for her.

Only then did Xander finally remember I existed.

His expression shifted slightly. Lory, he muttered casually without even looking embarrassed, go back to your room.

I turned around quietly and walked out while their laughter continued behind me.

The bedroom doors slammed shut a few seconds later while Claudias giggles echoed through the hallway again. Soft whispers followed, mixed with Xanders low voice and more laughter.

Every sound stabbed straight into my chest.

Strangely enough, I didnt cry. Maybe I was too broken now.

By the time I reached my room, Anna already looked panicked seeing my face. Mrs. Moretti...

I waved weakly. Leave me alone for a little while.

She hesitated before nodding quietly and leaving with the others. The room finally became silent.

I walked slowly toward the mirror and stared at myself.

I barely recognized the woman staring back.

Pale skin. Dark circles. Empty eyes. When did I start looking this lifeless?

A shadow suddenly appeared silently behind me.

One of my familys guards. The only people still loyal to me.

I turned around slowly and saw a female corpse lying beside him. Same height. Same body size.

For a moment, my breathing stopped.

It was finally time.

The guard knelt immediately. Everythings prepared, Miss.

My voice came out strangely calm. The car?

Waiting outside the city already. Safe houses are arranged too. Once tonight ends, Lorraine Moretti will officially be dead.

Dead.

I looked around the mansion quietly.

This place held every beautiful memory I ever had.

Xander carrying me into this room after our wedding. Kyle and Cora sleeping between us during thunderstorms. Late nights wrapped in his arms while he whispered hed love me forever.

What a cruel thing memories were.

I touched the bed gently, followed by the couch beside the window where we used to watch sunrise together after sleepless nights.

Back then he looked at me like I was his entire world. Now I couldnt even recognize that man anymore.

Lets go, I whispered softly.

I changed out of the servant dress into simple plain clothes. No diamonds. No luxury. Nothing connected to Xander anymore.

The guards placed the corpse carefully onto the bed while flames quickly spread across the curtains and furniture after they started the fire.

Smoke filled the room almost instantly.

Outside, a black car waited quietly in the darkness.

I got inside slowly.

Before the doors closed, I looked back one final time at the giant Moretti estate.

The golden cage that ruined me.

Fire blazed higher and higher behind us, swallowing the mansion in flames while somewhere inside another wing of the estate, Xander Moretti was too busy buried inside Claudia to realize his wife was already gone.