He Called Our Baby's Death An Accident, So I Left Him Forever

On our seventh wedding anniversary, my husband dragged me out of bed and forced me to the hospital to deliver his mistress's baby.

You're the most renowned obstetrician in this hospital. You're the only one I trust.

It's Delilah's first time giving birth, and I can't let anything happen to her.

Because of those words, I had no choice but to put on a sterile surgical gown and quietly walk into the operating room.

By the time the surgery was over and the baby's cries echoed through the room, my legs had already gone weak, and cold sweat had soaked through the back of my scrubs.

Carrying the newborn wrapped in a sterile blanket, my voice had become hoarse.

"Sir, congratulations. The baby boy is very healthy."

I said those words to my husband, Alaric Vaughn.

And in my arms was the son of him and his mistress, Delilah Voss.

Alaric didn't notice the unfamiliar formality in the way I addressed him. He simply stepped forward with obvious joy and carefully took the baby into his arms.

He gazed at the tiny child for a long time, the corners of his lips lifting into the satisfied smile of a man becoming a father for the first time.

His eyes had even reddened slightly, as though he were deeply moved.

I lowered my gaze and gently rested a hand over my own slightly rounded stomach, unable to tell what I was feeling.

"Where's my sweetie?"

As soon as Alaric finished speaking, the nurses pushed Delilah out of the operating room.

She lay on the hospital bed, looking frail and pale, her face drained of color and covered in cold sweat.

Alaric's eyes lit up instantly. Holding the baby in his arms, he hurried past me to get to Delilah's side, bumping hard into me in the process.

My stomach slammed against the wall with such force that I could barely remain standing. Darkness flashed before my eyes.

But all of Alaric's attention was on Delilah.

One moment, he was gently stroking her hair. Next, he lowered his voice to ask after her.

"Sweetie, are you tired?"

"You did great. Our son is adorable..."

Bracing myself against the wall, I forced myself upright and slowly made my way back to the room. I changed out of my surgical scrubs and into a simple shirt and jeans.

Just as I finished, the door swung open.

Alaric walked in.

The gentleness he had shown moments ago was gone. His expression was somewhat indifferent.

He tossed the document in his hand onto the table, his voice lazy and casual.

"Sign it."

"It's only to make my sweetie happy. She said she doesn't want to be involved with a married man."

The moment my eyes landed on the words on the paper, my entire body froze, and my relaxed fingers abruptly tightened.

A divorce agreement. Alaric's signature was already there. It had even clearly stated in the agreement that I would leave with nothing, and that all assets would belong to Alaric.

I looked up at the man standing before me as if I were seeing him for the very first time. My eyes reddened, but I fought to keep my emotions under control.

We had been in love for nine years and married for seven.

Once, when he had been kidnapped, I had rushed to save him despite being pregnant. I had fought desperately against the kidnappers, only to be beaten so badly that I miscarried.

Once, for my sake, he had endured one hundred lashes from his mother. He had even agreed to give up his inheritance, insisting that he would marry me no matter what.

On the day we got married, Alaric's hot tears fell onto the back of my hand.

His solemn vow still seemed to echo in my ears.

"Darling, I will stay by your side until death separates us."

And now, he was the one breaking that promise.

The marriage we had once sacrificed everything to obtain had ended up like this.

Perhaps noticing the pain in my eyes, Alaric frowned and explained.

Dont worry. Were not truly getting divorced. It's only to make Delilah feel better."

You know how stubborn shes been lately. She keeps pushing me to divorce you.

I only need the signed papers so I can take a picture and show her. I wont submit them to the lawyer.

Alaric spoke as casually as if he was discussing todays weather, as though my feelings meant nothing.

Once Ive comforted her, Ill come back to you.

Hearing that, I only found it laughable. So laughable that my eyes began to sting. In his eyes, our marriage was apparently something that could be taken out and toyed with whenever he pleased.

Besides, youve always been such an obedient wife. You wont be difficult this time either, right?

The smug curve of his lips made the question sound almost careless. In his eyes, I was probably nothing more than a fool who would give him whatever he wanted, no matter how unreasonable the request.

If he wanted to, he could sign divorce papers and stay with his mistress. If he wanted to, he could return to me afterward.

And I, no matter what happened, would remain exactly where I was, waiting for him forever.

Fine. Ill sign.

My fingers trembled, yet I still forced myself to grip the pen and sign the divorce papers.

Then I handed them back to Alaric.

A flicker of surprise crossed his face. He seemed not to have expected that I wouldn't cry, make a scene, or desperately try to stop him the way I always had before.

After all, over the years, whenever I saw Alaric with another woman, I had always behaved like a madwoman.

But this time, I was truly tired.

After a few seconds of stunned silence, Alaric quickly took a photo of the signed divorce papers and sent it to Delilah.

"Alright. Get some rest. I'll go check on Delilah."

Only then did he lazily glance at me. Bending down, he reached out, intending to pat my head the way he always did.

Dont worry. No one will ever take your place as Mrs. Vaughn.

Once Delilah calms down, Ill make it up to you.

Havent you always wanted to see the Northern Lights? When I have time, Ill take you there.

The cloying scent of sweet roses lingering on his body made my stomach churn violently.

I bent over slightly, avoiding his hand.

"I'm a little tired. You should go."

My voice came out hoarse.

Alaric merely reminded me to drink more warm water before turning around and leaving the room.

Click.

The room fell silent once more.

I lifted my head and looked at the divorce papers lying on the table, my eyes gradually darkening.

The future? Was Alaric talking about the future?

There would never be a future for us again. Were over.

He said he wouldn't submit the papers to the lawyer? Then I would.

Running my fingers lightly over the divorce agreement, I sent it to my personal lawyer and asked him to proceed with the divorce process with Alaric within a week.

Finally, I picked up my phone and called the director of the Obstetrics Department.

"Mrs. Jessica Monroe, I've decided to accept the invitation to join The Dream Obstetrics Training Program in the United States."

Hearing my words, Mrs. Monroe let out an excited squeal.

Oh my God, Estelle, you've finally come to your senses. Even if you're married, your career is just as important.

This obstetrics training program will take your career to the next level and significantly expand your experience. After two years of training, you might even have the opportunity to be promoted to deputy director..."

I knew all of this perfectly well. Mrs. Monroe had told me the same thing so many times in the past that I could practically recite it by heart.

The problem was that the program would take place in the United States and last for two years. I had never been willing to leave Alaric behind, so I kept turning it down.

Now, reality had finally slapped me awake.

Alaric's heart had never truly belonged to me. The love he once had for me had long since begun to crack.

And I no longer needed to keep standing still, waiting for someone who would never come back.

Mrs. Monroe happily told me that she would help me with the application process and that everything would be completed within seven days at the latest. By then, I would have to leave for the United States immediately to begin the training program.

By the way, I'm two months pregnant. Will that affect the program?

I asked the question that mattered most to me at that moment.

Even though I had completely lost hope in Alaric, I had no intention of giving up my child.

After all, the baby had done nothing wrong.

Moreover, even if Alaric truly intended to leave me and be with his mistress, I was more than capable of raising my son on my own.

Mrs. Monroe replied almost immediately.

Don't worry, Estelle. The Dream has a maternity leave policy for physicians participating in the program. If you want to take leave during the later stages of your pregnancy, I can help arrange that for you.

Once your maternity leave is over, you'll simply continue the training program as usual.

Mrs. Monroe reassured me patiently before adding.

You're one of the most talented obstetricians I've met in all my years in this profession. Don't give up this opportunity for anything, dearie.

My eyes burned. A hot tear slipped down and landed on the back of my hand.

My voice trembled as I said.

Mrs. Monroe, I'll cherish this opportunity.

But during this time, please help me keep it confidential. Don't let anyone find out.

Hearing the emotion in my voice, Mrs. Monroe didn't ask any further questions. She simply reminded me to take good care of myself and try to keep my emotions under control.

After ending the call, I took a deep breath and forced myself to calm down.

I wasn't on duty that afternoon, so I returned to my own apartment and slept until I woke up naturally.

When I finally opened my eyes, exhaustion still weighed heavily on my body.

Thinking about the belongings at the Vaughn estate, I took a taxi there to pack them up.

Now that Alaric and I were divorced, there was no reason for me to leave any of my things there anymore.

Originally, I had planned to quietly pack my things and leave before Alaric returned.

However, the moment I unlocked the door and stepped into the living room, Delilah's cheerful laughter drifted into my ears.

Get rid of this ugly table. It looks so old-fashioned. Replace it with the imported wooden table from France I mentioned earlier.

And these light blue curtains look completely outdated. Change them too.

Delilah, who should have been resting in the hospital, was reclining on the sofa with a thin blanket draped over her body.

Her complexion was still somewhat pale, yet she enthusiastically directed the maids around as if she were the true mistress of the house.

Alaric sat beside her, and throughout it all, he never once objected to anything she said.

I watched as one piece after another was carried away.

Every item had been carefully chosen by me.

Every item held memories of the happiness Alaric and I had once shared in this estate.

My heart tightened painfully.

Estelle, stop caring about these things. You and Alaric are over!

Just as I was about to turn around and leave, Delilah suddenly looked over and spotted me immediately.

Estelle..."

Like a frightened little rabbit, she shrank into Alaric's embrace. The panic in her eyes made it seem as though I were some kind of monster.

Estelle, please don't blame me. I just felt that these things were a little out of style, so I wanted to replace them.

Besides, I'll be staying here for quite a while during my postpartum recovery, so I'd like to arrange the estate according to my own preferences.

Alaric agreed to it as well.

As she spoke, her brows lifted slightly, the provocation in her eyes impossible to miss.

Then, as if something had suddenly occurred to her, she let out a soft gasp.

Oh, right, Estelle. Alaric said you've already signed the divorce papers. Surely you're not shameless enough to keep staying at the Vaughn estate, are you?

You came back to pack your things and leave, didn't you?

Hearing Delilah's taunting words, I lifted my head and looked straight at Alaric, waiting to see how he would respond.

Deep down, there was even a trace of hope that I hadn't realized was still there.

But he did nothing. He merely lowered his gaze and quietly avoided my eyes.

My nails dug deep into my palms. The sharp pain made my heart ache even more.

Since I had already decided to let go, there was no point arguing with Delilah anymore.

Yes. I'm here to pack my things. Once I'm done, I'll leave.

My voice was hoarse.

Something flickered across Alaric's face, and he seemed about to say something. But Delilah reacted even faster.

That's good.

I thought you were going to act like one of those crazy ex-wives who refuse to let go of their former husbands, but you're more decisive than I expected.

After saying that, she smiled sweetly.

Oh, right, Estelle. Thank you for delivering my baby.

If you're willing, my little Jamie can even call you his godmother someday.

Oh, you didn't know, did you? Alaric personally chose our son's name. James. Jamie is his nickname.

Delilah giggled teasingly. Meanwhile, I stood frozen in place after hearing that name.

The blood in my veins seemed to turn to ice, a chill spreading from head to toe.

James. Jamie.

It was the name Alaric, and I had once spent countless days choosing it for our first child.

It was also the name of the baby we had lost the night I rushed to save him and ended up being tortured by his kidnappers.

Stunned, I lifted my head and looked at Alaric, searching desperately for even the slightest trace of guilt in his eyes.

But all I saw was him busy pulling the blanket back over Delilah's shoulders after it had slipped down.

So he had forgotten. Forgotten the name of our first child.

Or perhaps, he had even forgotten that we had once had a child together at all.

How cruel could he be?

Thinking of that, I took a deep breath and became even more certain of my decision.

Alaric no longer loved me, and I no longer needed to cling to him.

I loved him, but I loved myself and the child growing inside me even more.

I didn't want to keep tormenting myself or make my son suffer because of him anymore.

Looking at the triumphant expression on Delilah's face, I replied.

No need. I have no interest in becoming the godmother of my husband's mistress's illegitimate child.

My voice was ice-cold as I turned and headed back to my room.

Delilah immediately put on a wounded, fragile expression. Alaric seemed to say something to me in a stern voice, but I couldn't care less.

Quietly closing the bedroom door behind me, I began packing my belongings, taking only the things that truly belonged to me.

Everything Alaric had given me, from jewelry and clothes to shoes from luxury brands, I no longer wanted any of it.

In the past, those gifts had been proof of Alaric's love, evidence of how happy I had once been.

Now, they only served as reminders of how foolish I had been in love.

I packed everything into cardboard boxes, intending to have the maids throw them away later.

Click.

The sound of the door opening broke the silence.

Someone walked in and casually sat down beside me.

Why are you throwing all these away, darling? Weren't these your favorite things?

Looking at the gifts he had once given me now piled carelessly inside the boxes, Alaric frowned, and his voice turned slightly colder.

My hands never stopped moving. Nor did I spare him a single glance.

Oh, those things are old now. I don't want them anymore. I'll donate them to an orphanage later.

The scent that belonged to Delilah grew even stronger in the air as Alaric sat down beside me.

Stop being so stubborn over Delilah. Estelle, haven't you always been reasonable? Why have you suddenly become like this?

You were deliberately mocking Delilah, and he'll be very hurt by that.

Reasonable.

Again, it was that word.

Because I had been reasonable, I had forgiven Alaric for countless affairs.

Because I had been reasonable, I had personally delivered his mistress's baby and watched her move into our estate as though she were the true mistress of the house.

I was tired of being a reasonable fool.

Pretending not to hear him, I continued packing my belongings.

You don't actually have to move out of the Vaughn estate. I'll talk to Delilah for you..."

I can move out, Alaric. It's good for all three of us.

I interrupted him coldly.

In response, I only heard a quiet sigh.

Alright, darling. Then you'll have to endure some hardship for now. I'll make it up to you later.

Make it up to me.

He had said those words so many times that I had lost count.

I bit down hard on my lip.

Suddenly, a gentle force caught my chin. Alaric leaned closer, intending to kiss me as he always did.

But the moment I thought about how many times those lips had kissed Delilah, all I felt was disgust.

My stomach twisted violently.

Clapping a hand over my mouth, I rushed into the bathroom and retched into the sink.

Urgh... urgh...

The bitter, acidic taste lingering in my throat only made me feel worse.

I retched for a long time, but nothing came up. My throat burned as though it had been set on fire.

Darling, are you okay? Why has your morning sickness been getting so severe lately?

Alaric hurried over and gently patted my back, his voice filled with concern as he patiently checked on me.

Exhausted, I shook off his hand and walked out of the room.

Heading downstairs, I intended to find one of the maids and ask about several keepsakes belonging to my late grandfather, which I had previously entrusted to them for maintenance.

But before I could do so, a sharp smell of something burning suddenly drifted into the air.

A warning bell rang in my mind. Without a second thought, I ran barefoot toward the source of the burning smell, straight into the garden.

Amid the flickering crimson flames, I caught sight of the red cover of my late grandfather's diary, along with part of a watch that had nearly been burned to ashes. Scattered within the fire were several other belongings that had once belonged to my grandfather.

My breathing seemed to stop. The blood in my veins turned cold, and my mind went completely blank.

Then, refusing to let myself stand there in shock any longer, I rushed to grab the watering can the maids kept in the garden and frantically poured water over the flames.

My tears mingled with the water streaming from the can as the fire gradually weakened, then finally died out.

All that remained were blackened objects, some of them already reduced to ash.

I hurriedly picked up my late grandfather's watch. The scorching heat radiating from the metal instantly burned my palm, but I clenched it tightly as if I could no longer feel the pain.

Only then did the panic raging inside me finally begin to settle.

I spun around abruptly, my eyes bloodshot as I glared at Delilah, who was standing nearby with a look of satisfaction on her face.

Are you crazy? Why did you burn my things?

Who gave you permission to touch them? Who gave you permission to go through my belongings?

I had only entrusted the watch and a pendant to the maids for maintenance. As for my grandfather's diary and several of his clothes, I had always kept them neatly stored away in my closet.

So the moment I saw them in the fire, I knew it had been Delilah who had gone through my things.

Were you never taught that you shouldn't touch other people's belongings?

As I gathered up the remaining items and clutched them tightly in my arms, I shouted at Delilah through gritted teeth.

Delilah merely crossed her arms and casually rubbed her still-flat stomach.

Estelle, I was only helping you get rid of some old junk. Why are you getting so worked up?

She let out a faint laugh.

Besides, I just gave birth. The doctor said my health is weak, and I shouldn't be around dirty things.

I heard your grandfather used to be a waste picker to raise you. I was worried that the things he left behind might be dirty too..."

Smack!

Before she could finish speaking, I completely lost control and swung my hand across her face with all my strength.

A bright red handprint instantly appeared on Delilah's cheek, streaked with a few smudges of black ash.

She glared at me resentfully, her eyes burning with hatred.

You bitch..."

She screamed through clenched teeth and strode toward me.

Just as she was about to raise her hand to strike me back, she suddenly dropped to her knees, tears streaming down her face.

Estelle, I'm sorry. I didn't know those were your grandfather's keepsakes. I just thought they were things nobody wanted, so I burned them.

It's fine if you're angry, but why did you have to hit me?

Delilah's sobbing left me momentarily stunned.

Before I could understand what was happening, a powerful slap landed squarely across my face, sending me stumbling to the ground.

When I looked up, I saw the furious expression on Alaric's face.

How could you hit Delilah? How have you become so unreasonable and vicious, Estelle?

Alaric looked at me with irritation and disappointment before hurriedly helping Delilah to her feet. He pulled her into his arms and carefully wiped the dirt from her face.

Delilah sobbed pitifully, tears streaming down her cheeks, yet a triumphant smile flickered across her lips as she glanced in my direction.

Alaric, don't be angry with Estelle because of me. Maybe my moving into Vaughn Manor has made her unhappy. She probably just wanted to vent her frustration.

I can endure it..."

Delilah's voice was soft and pitiful. Combined with her youthful, sweet-looking face, she appeared like the most wronged person in the world.

She sounded as though she were defending me, yet every word only made the situation worse.

The way Alaric looked at me grew even more resentful.

Delilah, you don't need to defend Estelle.

After soothing Delilah in a gentle voice, Alaric suddenly turned cold and snapped,

Estelle, apologize to Delilah right now!

I tightened my grip on the belongings in my arms. The burns on my hands had already blistered, and my voice came out thick with emotion.

Alaric, I hit Delilah because she burned my grandfather's keepsakes first.

My eyes reddened the moment I mentioned my grandfather.

She even insulted my grandfather, saying he was nothing more than a waste picker..."

During the years of my childhood, when my parents divorced and abandoned me, it was my grandfather who pinched every penny to raise me and put me through school.

To earn enough money for my college tuition, he had even collected scrap and recyclables, working tirelessly just to make a few extra dollars.

It was the most painful and helpless memory of my entire life, and Alaric knew that better than anyone.

He also knew exactly how important my grandfather was to me, and how much I cherished everything that had belonged to him.

Especially the diary I had once shown him.

Inside were the stories of my childhood, the record of my growing years, and countless gentle words of love written by my grandfather himself.

He knew all of it.

For a brief moment, I had thought that no matter how much he loved Delilah, he would still be a reasonable man. I had thought he would stand on my side.

But the moment he spoke, he shattered the last remaining piece of hope I had left.

Delilah only misspoke. Stop making such a big deal out of it.

Alaric's voice was icy cold as he lazily glanced at the belongings in my arms, half-burned and reduced to ashes, his eyes filled with disdain.

Delilah didn't do it on purpose. She's already explained herself.

And besides, keep these filthy things away from her from now on. She's still weak..."

Bitterness surged up my throat, and I let out a mocking laugh.

Alaric, how did I never realize before that you're such a bastard?

They were my grandfather's keepsakes!

I practically growled the words through clenched teeth.

Do you remember kneeling in front of him and promising that you would protect me for the rest of my life?

He hasn't even been gone for three years, yet you've allowed your mistress to burn everything that belonged to him and torment his granddaughter like this?

Do you even have a heart?

My voice was hoarse and sharp as I stared straight into Alaric's eyes, mocking him without restraint.

For a brief moment, surprise flashed across his face. His lips parted as though he wanted to say something.

However, Delilah suddenly let out a sob.

Alaric, ouch... my stomach hurts so much...

Maybe the fall earlier injured me..."

Delilah doubled over, panting heavily as she clung to Alaric's arm.

The trace of guilt that had appeared in Alaric's eyes vanished completely. Supporting Delilah, he immediately swept her into his arms.

Then he glared at me and shouted.

The maids!

Lock Estelle in the storage room immediately! Until she apologizes, don't let her out!

His voice was vicious to the extreme.

The maids rushed forward at once and grabbed hold of me so tightly that I couldn't struggle free. All I could do was desperately protect the belongings clutched in my arms.

Alaric, how dare you? I still have to go to the hospital and work!

I shouted in protest, but he didn't care at all.

I'll request leave for you. Now be a good girl and reflect on your mistakes.

He signaled to the maids before carrying Delilah away without another glance.

As for me, they dragged me off like a chicken and threw me into the dark storage room.

Thud.

The pain from hitting the floor made cold sweat break out across my body.

Then came a click.

As the door slammed shut, the room was swallowed by complete darkness.

The musty scent of dust filled my lungs, making me cough violently.

Slowly pushing myself up from the floor, I carefully ran my fingers over the belongings in my arms.

The watch still retained a trace of warmth from the fire.

Half of the diary had already been reduced to ashes, and one side of the watch face had been burned black.

Beside them were several old pieces of clothing, shriveled and twisted from the flames.

Tears slipped silently down my cheeks as the dull ache on my face left me utterly exhausted.

Alaric hadn't always been like this. In the past, he was really gentle.

If I mentioned craving pastries from a bakery on the outskirts of the city, he would drive for two hours through the rain in the middle of the night just to buy them for me.

If one of his friends mocked me, he would immediately turn against that person and even use his influence to make that friend's company suffer.

I once believed I was the happiest woman in the world.

But after Delilah appeared, everything changed.

He would leave home in the middle of the night because of a single phone call from her.

He would abandon me on my birthday.

He would leave me to attend prenatal checkups alone.

For her, he had forgotten everything about Jamie.

About the pitiful first child we had lost.

How ridiculous.

Now, he couldn't even remember who that name had belonged to.

...

For the next six days, I was almost completely cut off from the outside world.

Each day, I survived on a few slices of stale bread that the maids casually tossed to me.

Along with a small amount of water placed in a dog's water bowl.

"Young Mistress said that's all you deserve."

Now, every maid in the mansion had begun calling Delilah "Young Mistress," while I was nothing more than an unwanted outsider.

My stomach cramped relentlessly from hunger, but I had no choice except to pick up the bowl and drink.

I was pregnant.

I had to eat and drink properly.

I couldn't allow my body to deteriorate.

The more Delilah wanted to destroy me, the more determined I became to protect my baby.

On the seventh day.

As I lay weakly on the floor, the sound of a key sliding into the lock echoed through the room.

A thin beam of light spilled in from outside. The sharp click of high heels followed, accompanied by a malicious female voice.

"Oh, how pitiful, Estelle. Once a respected obstetrician, and now you're no different from a dog."

"Actually, maybe you're even worse off than a dog. At least stray dogs are free to roam the streets."

Exhausted, I slowly lifted my head.

Delilah stood against the light, a baby cradled in her arms. Step by step, she approached me, her voice bright and piercing.

"How does it feel to be abandoned, and no one cares whether you live or die?"

"In the end, I'm still the one who came to visit you. Aren't you touched?"

Looking at the smug expression on her face, I forced myself to sit up. But after days of hunger, my body had long since run out of strength.

A wave of dizziness hit me without warning. The world spun, and darkness clouded my vision.

"Get out."

"I don't want to see you."

Faced with my feeble resistance, Delilah merely let out a mocking laugh.

"I came to set you free. If you're not grateful, fine. Why are you so angry?"

"What do you want?"

I asked through gritted teeth.

I stared at Delilah warily, every nerve in my body on high alert. But she merely shrugged.

"Nothing, hmmm...."

She smacked her lips lightly.

"I was just thinking... if my son becomes Alaric's only child, then no one will be able to fight him for the inheritance in the future, right?"

A chill shot down my spine.

Instinctively, I wrapped both arms around my stomach as Delilah's gaze slowly dropped to my abdomen.

Panic surged through me as I staggered backward. My heart pounded so violently it felt as though it would burst out of my chest.

My baby.

The only thing I had left in this world.

The only relative I had left.

"You can't hurt my son."

The smile on Delilah's lips deepened. Calmly, she let out a whistle.

Two large maids stepped into the room. Their faces were unfamiliar to me, I had never seen them.

"Help me get rid of the bastard growing inside that bitch."

Delilah's voice was icy, as though it had risen straight from hell itself.

My heartbeat nearly stopped. Bracing myself against the floor, I forced myself upright and tried to flee with the last bit of strength I had left.

But one of the maids reacted faster.

She grabbed a fistful of my hair and yanked hard, as if she intended to tear my scalp off.

"Stay away from me!"

"Get the hell away from me!"

One maid swiftly pinned my arms behind my back while the other dragged me by the hair.

I was hauled out into the hallway like a slaughtered animal.

Alarm bells rang wildly inside my head. I struggled desperately, but it was useless.

In return, one of the maids slapped me twice across the face. The force was so brutal that my scalp went numb.

Pain exploded across my cheeks, making even breathing feel unbearable.

Several times, I tried to plant my feet and stop moving.

Each time, I was met with a vicious kick that nearly sent me crashing to the floor.

Step by step, I was dragged closer to the grand staircase.

My vision blurred. My body turned ice-cold.

The blood in my veins seemed to freeze.

"No..."

"I'm pregnant."

"If you do this, you're committing murder."

My voice trembled so violently that it came out hoarse and broken.

The moment I lifted my head, I met Delilah's gaze.

Holding the baby tightly in her arms, she looked down at me with undisguised amusement.

"Hurry up."

She urged them impatiently.

At that exact moment, the maids released me.

Then a tremendous force slammed into my back. My body instantly lost its balance.

I pitched forward as the world spun violently around me.

Instinctively, I wrapped both arms around my stomach. The next second, I tumbled down the staircase.

Bang. Bang. Bang.

Each impact felt as though every bone in my body was being shattered and pieced back together again.

My screams echoed through the mansion, mingling with the sickening sounds of flesh and bone crashing against marble.

Blood streaked across the stairs.

A shocking, glaring red.

"Ah! Estelle, don't push me!"

Suddenly, Delilah's shrill scream rang out.

A figure appeared within my blurred vision.

The baby's cries echoed throughout the hallway, followed by a cold male voice.

What is going on?

The moment I saw Alaric, I immediately reached out toward him, stretching out my hand in a desperate plea for help.

Please, save our baby..."

But he didn't even turn around.

Instead, he walked straight to Delilah and pulled her trembling body into his arms.

Dont cry, sweetie. Im here. Im always by your side.

Gently helping Delilah, who was sitting collapsed on the floor, back to her feet, he carefully rubbed her back and asked what had happened.

The two maids from earlier had vanished without a trace.

Delilah's voice mingled with her sobs.

I only wanted to bring our son to visit Estelle and see how she was doing. I never expected her to suddenly lose her mind, grab our son, and try to throw him down the stairs.

I rushed over to protect him, but Estelle suddenly fell and accused me of pushing her..."

No. That wasn't what happened.

I lifted my head, wanting to defend myself, but my strength had already been drained away. The pain made my vision blur and my head spin.

Using the last bit of strength I had left, I forced out a weak whisper.

No... I didn't hurt Delilah's child.

My voice was hoarse and strained, but I thought Alaric would understand.

After all these years together, he should know that I wasn't that kind of cruel person.

I was an obstetrician.

I would never harm a child.

Yet Alaric merely let out a mocking laugh, looking at me as though I were a bitter, repulsive shrew.

Holding Jamie in his arms, he gently comforted Delilah.

Its okay. Ill take Jamie to the hospital for a checkup. And you too, that fall looked quite painful.

Alaric, wait...save me...

Please, save our baby...

Sobbing through her tears, I reached desperately toward Alaric, terror consuming every part of me.

But he didn't even spare me a glance.

Carrying Jamie in his arms and holding Delilah's hand, he walked straight out.

I was left behind in a pool of blood, trapped in pain and panic.

As the sound of their footsteps gradually faded away, the last shred of hope within me died as well.

Tears streamed down my face as I lowered my gaze to the floor. I could feel my baby slipping away little by little, yet I no longer had the strength to hold on.

Sweetie, Im sorry... Im sorry... I couldnt protect you...

I whispered through broken sobs.

Because I had loved the wrong person, my son had to pay the price as well.

I didn't know how much time had passed before one of the maids who had always taken care of me discovered me and hurriedly rushed me to the hospital.

By the time I was wheeled into the emergency room, even breathing felt agonizing.

The doctor assigned to perform my surgery was Lily, a colleague at the hospital and someone I was fairly close to.

The moment she saw my condition, her voice trembled slightly.

Estelle, you've miscarried. We need to perform a uterine evacuation procedure. Where is your husband?

I heard myself murmur weakly.

He's dead. Please perform the surgery.

A husband who abandoned me in a moment of life and death was no different from a dead man.

Even then, I was still lucid enough to ask Lily to contact the maids after the surgery and have them send my belongings to the hospital.

A flicker of surprise crossed Lily's eyes, but she quickly composed herself, nodded in agreement, and began the procedure.

My consciousness gradually blurred, and before I knew it, I had slipped into darkness.

When I opened my eyes again, I found Alaric sitting beside the hospital bed.

It was just an accident. Stop making a scene, and stop blaming Delilah.

You were the one who lost your mind and tried to hurt Jamie first.

His voice was cold, colder than ice.

At that moment, my love for him died along with our baby.

I looked at him and felt only unfamiliarity.

Just as I had told Lily, the Alaric in my heart was truly dead.

The faithful man whose heart had once belonged only to me was gone.

I shouldn't keep clinging to someone who is already dead.

Not wanting to explain anything anymore, I merely nodded tiredly.

Alright. You should go.

A flicker of surprise crossed Alaric's face. He seemed about to say something when the door suddenly opened a crack.

Delilah poked her head inside, her voice choked with emotion.

Alaric, I don't mean to interrupt, but Jamie won't stop crying..."

Alaric glanced at me only once before decisively rising to his feet.

Take good care of yourself.

The moment the words left his mouth, he was already gone, swift as the wind.

I stared up at the ceiling and let out a mocking laugh.

After losing our second child, the only thing he had to say to me was to take good care of myself.

He didn't ask if I was in pain, let alone offer a single word of comfort.

All this time, had I been loving a human being, or a heartless robot?

Wearily, I pushed myself up from the hospital bed, yanked the IV needle from the back of my hand, slipped into my slippers, and headed toward Mrs. Monroe's office.

After knocking twice, I heard her invite me in.

The moment she saw me, surprise flashed across her eyes. Then she gestured for me to sit and asked what had happened during the past few days when she had been able to reach me.

Calmly, I told her everything.

As she listened, her gaze gradually darkened with sympathy.

I heard you just had a miscarriage. In that case, regarding The Dream program..."

She left the sentence unfinished, but I understood.

According to the original schedule, I was supposed to fly to the United States today and attend the first training session tomorrow.

I shook my head calmly and smiled faintly.

It's alright, Mrs. Monroe. There's no need to postpone it.

The flight leaves in two hours. I'll still go as planned.

Then, after a brief pause, I asked meaningfully,

By the way, has anything arrived for me from the law office over the past few days?

I had already sent the divorce papers to my lawyer.

Yesterday was supposed to be the day I received the divorce certificate.

However, because I had been locked inside the storage room, I had no way of contacting Lawyer Wang.

Hearing my question, Mrs. Monroe nodded and pulled a file folder from her desk drawer.

Yes, Estelle.

You haven't been at the hospital these past few days, so I accepted it on your behalf.

I thanked her quietly and accepted the folder with trembling hands.

When I opened it, two copies of the divorce certificate immediately came into view.

At long last, I let out a breath of relief. Holding onto one copy, I handed the other to Mrs. Monroe and sighed softly.

Please help me deliver this to my ex-husband.

And send him my miscarriage report after I arrive in the United States.

After a brief pause, I added,

As for my trip to the United States, please don't tell him.

Mrs. Monroe seemed to understand something at once. She merely nodded.

Don't worry. You can leave it to me.

Then she opened her desk drawer again and took out an envelope, handing it to me.

Consider this a small token of my support. Once you're in the United States, make sure to take good care of yourself.

I accepted it blankly and opened it in confusion.

Inside was a thick stack of cash, all one-hundred-dollar bills.

Startled, I immediately pushed the envelope back toward her.

Mrs. Monroe, I can't accept this. It's too much.

Panic filled my voice.

However, Mrs. Monroe simply pushed it back toward me and smiled kindly.

Darling, take it.

A young woman living alone in a foreign country won't have an easy time.

Don't refuse, or I'll be upset.

My eyes instantly reddened at her words.

Lowering my head, I took a deep breath to keep the tears from falling.

Oh, darling, don't cry. Do your best, alright?

When you return from the program, I want to see a stronger and more outstanding version of you.

Mrs. Monroe's gentle voice finally caused a hot tear to fall onto the back of my hand.

Come on, darling.

Go pack your things and get ready.

Once you're in the United States, remember to take good care of yourself.

Mrs. Monroe rose to her feet and gently pulled me into her embrace.

She waited until I had calmed down before softly reminding me to keep an eye on the time and get ready to head to the airport. Then she handed me my plane ticket.

Bowing deeply to her, I clutched the envelope and the divorce certificate tightly in my hands before returning to my room.

My belongings had already been delivered to the hospital by the maids.

Taking a deep breath, I gathered my ID card, personal documents, and passport, then calmly picked up my suitcase and left the hospital.

The weather was bright, mild, and pleasant.

After hailing a taxi to the airport, I walked straight inside without looking back.

Once I had checked in and boarded the plane, I lifted my gaze toward the cabin door.

The sky outside had already turned dark. Yet my heart felt brighter than it ever had before.

As the plane slowly took off, the scenery beneath me gradually grew smaller and smaller.

And so did Alaric. Slowly, he faded from my heart as well.

Calmly, I pulled my phone from my handbag and snapped the SIM card in half.

From this moment onward, Alaric and I were nothing more than strangers.