Chapter 1

My son just had surgery. I'm sitting by his bedside in the hospital when I come across a post online.

"What's the worst thing you've ever done?"

One anonymous comment stands out.

"I used the upperclassman who funded me as a stepping stone. My sponsor was rich but clueless. After she paid for my entire college, I slept with her husband and got pregnant.

"The craziest part? My son and her son were born on the same day, but my husband swapped the babies. Now, she treats my son like he's her whole world, working day and night to give him a better life.

"But her own son lives with me, wearing hand-me-downs and eating leftovers. Today, my son had surgery. I was worried sick, so I slapped her son hard a few times.

"Oh, and her family just got a three-million-dollar payout for relocation. My husband is going to the hospital later. He's going to use the excuse of buying a house near the schools to get the money.

"Once we have the money, I'm buying a villa. Then I'll get my son back and kick her out!"

The post includes a blurry photo of a boy begging on his knees.

My breath catches because the charm on his wrist is the same lucky charm I gave my son the day he was born.

Just then, my husband pushes open the door to the ward and walks in.

"Honey, Sean's starting elementary school soon. Let's use that relocation money your mom received to buy a house near the schools."

Chapter 1

The eyes of my husband, Connor Crawford, landed on me. They were filled with greed.

As I looked at the man in front of me, I felt like I didn't know him.

Seeing me freeze, he stepped closer. "What's wrong? Feeling tired?"

"No," I said, swallowing the wave of nausea. I turned around and reached out to touch my son Sean Crawford's hair.

But the boy I had raised for six years jerked his head away from my touch and looked behind Connor instead. "Dad, where's Ms. Larsen? Didn't she say she'd come see me?"

His tone carried a blatant coldness toward me but an unabashed intimacy toward my underclassman in college, Willa Larsen.

It hit me like a stab to the heart.

"She'll be here soon," Connor said with a smile, trying to calm him down.

Then, he turned to me and went straight to the point. "Honey, a house near the school is necessary—"

My voice was hoarse as I cut him off, saying, "The houses near Ellwyn Elementary, even the older ones, cost 7,000 dollars per square foot. Three million dollars only covers the deposit. It's too much pressure—"

"Oh, honey, you need to think long term," Connor interrupted. "Investing in education for Sean is always worth it. What's a mortgage? Your company brings in steady income anyway."

"But—"

"Stop with the buts!" Connor frowned, his tone firm. "Janice Sutton, tell me, what's more important, our son or money? Are you really being stingy when it comes to Sean?"

His words stabbed like needles.

For six years, I'd done everything for this family and Sean. He knew better than anyone. Yet now, he was saying such things to shut me down.

I clenched the bedsheet. Just as I was about to answer, the door to the ward opened again.

Willa walked in carrying a fruit basket. "How's Sean doing? Oh, I was so worried!"

She headed straight to the other side of the bed and bent over to look at Sean. Her eyes showed a kind of worry that felt more sincere than mine as his mother.

Connor's expression immediately softened. "The doctor said the surgery went well, but it's just heartbreaking to see Sean suffering like this."

"Surgery really hurts."

Willa turned to me and said matter-of-factly, "Janice, you really need to get Sean some good food to help him recover."

When I didn't reply, she went on, "By the way, I think I overheard you guys talking about buying a house near the schools."

Connor jumped in, "Yeah, we were just discussing it. I'm thinking of using her mom's relocation money to buy a house near Ellwyn Elementary, but Janice has her doubts."

Chapter 2

Willa immediately showed her disapproval. "Janice, you really need to listen to Connor. Sean's future is what matters most! He's so smart. He can't afford to fall behind. Right, Sean?"

As Sean looked at Willa, he pouted and whined, "Ms. Larsen, it hurts…"

"It's okay. I'm here," Willa soothed him gently while holding his hand.

Then, she took the chance to say, "Sean, you're about to start elementary school. Your dad wants to buy you a house near the best school. Doesn't that make you happy?"

Even though he was hurting, Sean nodded at the mention of "best school".

He then glanced at me and said in a resentful tone, "Mom, Dad and Ms. Larsen only want what's best for me. Why won't you agree? Jackson's mom sold their car just so he could go to a good school! You only care about money. You don't care about me at all!"

My heart sank to the very bottom.

This was the son I raised for six years.

How could he spit out such cutting words at the mother who stayed by his bedside while he was sick?

Connor looked at me as if to say, "See? Even Sean knows what matters more."

Willa lightly patted Sean's hand. When her eyes flicked to me, there was a flash of satisfaction and mockery.

The three of them were in perfect sync, making me the stingy villain standing in the way of Sean's future.

The room fell silent for a few seconds.

Then, I let out a chuckle. "You're right."

Connor and Willa froze for a second before looking at me.

I unclenched the bedsheet and continued calmly, "Sean's future matters most."

Connor's eyes lit up at once. "Honey, is that a yes?"

"Yeah." I nodded and even gave a small smile. "I'll go to the bank tomorrow and transfer the money. Honey, you handle the house. Pick the best one."

"That's more like it!" Connor beamed.

Willa broke into a radiant smile too. "Janice, I'm so glad you've come to your senses! Sean is so lucky to have such loving parents!"

Sean snorted and turned away, showing his grudging approval.

As I watched their triumphant faces, the final spark of warmth within me was extinguished entirely.

Since the three of them loved to act and thought I was dumb enough to be fooled, I'd just let them act all they wanted.

…

From that day on, I became the most "accommodating" person in this family.

The three-million-dollar relocation money was transferred to Connor's chosen account the next day.

It was a new joint account, supposedly for family investments, but he was the only one who held the password.

He wasted no time. Within a week, he secured a rare listing near Ellwyn Elementary. It was a single-level luxury apartment of about 2,000 square feet, priced at 8,000 dollars per square foot.

"Honey, this place has a great layout and excellent floor. The developer is holding back a few units for insiders. They're giving a discount for full payment! We can't miss this!"

Connor waved the floor plan around excitedly. "But the total is 16 million dollars. Our three million only covers the down payment. Do you think you could use your company as collateral for a mortgage? Or maybe liquidate some of your investments and stocks?"

How ambitious.

Not only did he drain Mom's relocation money, but he was trying to squeeze every last bit out of me.

I frowned. "Getting a mortgage through the company is tough right now, and my investments aren't mature yet. How about we get a smaller place first?"

"A smaller one won't do," Connor snapped. "If we're buying, we buy the best! That's what Sean deserves. Janice, stop hesitating! Taking risks for Sean is nothing!"

Chapter 3

At that moment, Willa "just happened" to drop by to visit Sean.

Upon hearing the conversation, she immediately chimed in, "That's right, Janice. It's best to get the right house the first time around. Sean can even stay there with his wife in the future. Money can always be earned, but you don't get a second chance at your kid's education."

Sean kicked the couch nearby, shouting, "I want a big house! Davin's family has a 2,000-square-foot place with a toy room! I want one just like his!"

Watching how spoiled and out of control he had become, I lowered my eyes and compromised. "Fine, I'll figure something out."

"Thank you, honey!" Connor wrapped his arms around me.

He sounded "sincere" as he continued, "Sean and I will always remember everything you do for us!"

His fake words made me sick.

Without missing a beat, he changed the subject. "By the way, since we're buying the house for Sean, let's just put the deed in his name. It's all going to be his eventually."

I said nothing at first, my fingers curling slightly at my side.

Willa quickly agreed happily. "Good idea, Connor! Putting it in Sean's name makes the most sense. It can even be his matrimonial home someday."

I sneered inside but stayed calm on the surface. "Sure, put it in Sean's name."

Connor and Willa exchanged a glance. Their eyes shone with joy.

They probably thought that with Sean's name on the deed, the house was eventually theirs.

But they had no idea I had a big surprise planned.

…

After that, things got worse.

Claiming he needed funds to "secure the mortgage" and "pull some strings", Connor frequently withdrew large sums of cash from me. My savings began to dwindle at a staggering rate.

Willa started coming over more and more often. She made herself right at home, acting like she was the true lady of the house.

She started bossing me around with chores, complaining that the groceries I bought weren't fresh, and griping that the meals I cooked didn't suit Sean's tastes.

She even "accidentally" used my skincare products on the vanity and wore the brand-new clothes in my closet with the tags still on.

"Janice, this color is so dull on you. It doesn't suit you. I'm slimmer, so I can wear it better. Let's not waste it."

Wearing my silk dress, she preened in front of the mirror.

I just nodded. "You can keep it if you like it."

Sean grew more impatient with me.

Everything he ate, wore, or did had to be approved by Willa first.

He kept saying "Ms. Larsen said" or "Ms. Larsen bought this for me".

The limited-edition building block set I got for him was tossed aside like junk. "Ms. Larsen promised to take me abroad. That's way better than these dumb toys!"

Connor didn't even bother hiding it anymore. He flirted openly with Willa right in front of me.

Once, I came home early and caught Willa stepping out of the master bathroom wearing my nightgown.

"Janice, you're back? I just borrowed the bathroom. My water heater's broken," she said, her hair still dripping, without a hint of shame.

Connor appeared from the study, frowning. "Janice, why didn't you call before coming home? You scared us."

I stood still and slowly smiled. "Sorry, I'll be more careful next time."

The paperwork for the house moved along very quickly. Before signing the contract, we needed to finalize the names to be listed on the deed.

That day, Connor came home early, and Willa showed up too. This time, she brought a thin, timid child.

The kid kept his head down, dressed in ragged, ill-fitting clothes, with a faded lucky charm bracelet on his wrist.

My heart wrenched.

That was my son!

"Who's that?" Connor asked, frowning. His eyes were full of undisguised disgust.

Chapter 4

Willa shoved the boy harshly and said harshly, "Just a stray I picked up from the curb. He was born bad to the bone. No wonder his parents dumped him."

I clenched my fists so tight my nails dug into my palms.

My biological son was reduced to a "stray" in her mouth.

Seeing the boy, Sean pinched his nose and shouted, "You stink! Get out!"

When he saw the boy eyeing his toys, Sean pushed him away angrily. "Don't look! You're so dirty! Who knows what diseases you have?"

My heart shattered, but I forced myself to stay calm and said softly, "Sean, why don't you take him to your room to play for a bit?"

"No way!" Sean screamed. "He's not allowed in my room!"

Connor grew impatient. "Why bother with a stray? Let's get back to business."

Willa didn't hold back. She kicked the boy hard behind the knees. "It's all your fault, you jinx! You upset Sean the moment you showed up! Get lost!"

I jumped up, instinctively shielding the trembling boy behind me.

Connor eyed me suspiciously. "Janice, why are you defending a stranger like that?"

Willa chimed in sarcastically, "Yeah, someone who didn't know might think he's your son."

Pain from my digging nails snapped me back to reality.

I couldn't let them see through me. Now wasn't the time.

I released my grip and forced out a bitter smile. "I just feel sorry for him. Anyway, where's the contract? Aren't we signing?"

I gave the boy a gentle nudge, signaling him to step back.

Keeping his head lowered, he moved silently into the shadows of the corner, like a frightened animal.

Seeing him like that twisted my heart.

Connor's and Willa's suspicion seemed to ease. Their focus returned to the contract.

I picked up the pen and wrote "Sean Crawford" on the deed.

The tip of the pen tore through the paper, and with it, the very last shred of my lingering affection.

"All done." I handed the contract back.

Connor checked it carefully, then broke into a huge grin.

I quietly turned away and went to the kitchen to pour some water.

As I passed by the corner, I slipped a cupcake from my pocket into the boy's hand.

Trembling, he looked up at me. His eyes instantly misted with tears, but he was too scared to take it.

I mouthed silently, "It's for you."

With that, I hurried into the kitchen.

Leaning against the cold countertop, I finally let the tears flow freely.

I kept apologizing to my son in my mind, hoping he could hold on a little longer. I promised myself I'd make those who hurt him pay dearly.

…

Finally, the paperwork for the house purchase was all done.

As Connor held the title deed, his hand shook, and his face glowed with uncontrollable joy.

He waved his hand. "Such a big celebration calls for a party! Let's have a housewarming at the new place this weekend. Invite all our friends and family!"

He exchanged a sharp look with Willa.

I knew he'd finally lost his patience.

…

That weekend, that single-level luxury apartment buzzed with guests.

Connor wore a brand-new suit, and Willa dazzled in a champagne dress with flawless makeup. Together, they looked like the perfect couple.

As Connor worked the room with smiles, Willa played the gracious hostess.

Sean flitted between guests like a young prince, basking in their praise and gifts.

After a few rounds of drinks, Connor decided the moment was right. He took Willa and Sean to the center of the living room.

"Everyone, thanks for coming to our housewarming. Today is also… our family reunion!"

Applause and laughter filled the room.

"Since today's a special occasion, I've got something I've been holding in for years to share with you all."

Chapter 5

Connor's tone suddenly turned serious. "My marriage to Janice was a mistake from the start. The one I truly love is Willa!"

He raised his voice. "We've loved each other for years, but due to circumstances beyond our control, we couldn't be together. Even our son had to be raised under someone else's name, suffering the pain of being separated from his mother!"

The guests erupted into a frenzy.

Willa lowered her head at just the right moment, pretending to wipe away nonexistent tears.

Connor gave a signal, and a helper brought out a thin boy in tattered clothes.

"This is Zeke, my son with Janice." Connor's voice choked up. "And Sean… is actually Willa's son! I'm ending this mistake today!"

He pointed at me and said sharply, "Janice, we're getting a divorce! This house belongs to Sean, which means it belongs to me!

"As a gesture for all the years you've raised Sean, I'll let you keep that run-down place and give you 100 thousand dollars. From now on, we're done! Take your son and get out of my life!"

Willa looked up as well. A look of malicious triumph was plastered across her face. "Janice, did you hear that? Sean is my son, and I'm his real mother! You've raised him all these years, but now, it's time for him to return to his real family!"

Though Sean didn't fully understand, hearing "real mother" and that the house belonged to Connor, he joined in, "Get out now! This is Dad's and Ms. Larsen's house! You're not my mom!"

The three of them stood proudly in the center of the spotlight, condemning and casting me out.

The scene erupted into murmurs and shouts at once.

"Connor, how could you switch the kids and cheat while married? Are you even human?"

"I feel so bad for Janice. She's raised someone else's son for years!"

"This woman's shameless! She's the mistress and yet acts so righteous!"

"You can't divorce him! Janice, you can't just let him go! Why should you let them get away with this so easily?"

"Right! Drag this out! You deserve a share of the house too! Don't let them win!"

Furious friends and family voiced their support for me.

Connor and Willa hadn't expected such a strong reaction. Their expressions darkened, but they tried to stay calm.

Willa raised her voice. "This is our family matter! Why are you all interfering? Connor is just pursuing true love. What's wrong with that? Janice couldn't keep her man. Who else can she blame?"

Her words only poured fuel on the fire.

Amidst the shouting and the calls for me not to compromise, I slowly raised my head and said calmly, "I appreciate everyone's concern."

The room fell silent, and everyone looked at me in confusion.

I turned to Connor, glanced at Willa, then glanced briefly at Sean before my focus finally settled on Zeke, who was huddled in the corner.

Then, I slowly said, "I agree to the divorce."

With that, I signed the divorce agreement.

Connor picked up the agreement, double-checked my signature, and his face finally relaxed into a grin. "Let's go our separate ways from now on."

As he said that, he wrapped an arm around Willa and beckoned Sean over, ready to start their new life.

"Wait."

My voice rang out again.

"Before your little family enjoys their new life, I have a special gift for you."