1#01
1
Kate learned her boyfriend, Dave Ferdinand, was unfaithful during their second year together.
The betrayal stung even more when she found out it was with her own sister.
Despite both being adopted, her sister always seemed to receive more affection from the family.
Even Kate's spouse would neglect her in the hospital to seek out that other woman.
Kate's spirit was crushed. She quietly acquired a luxury boat without anyone's knowledge.
On their wedding day, she departed, leaving them with an extravagant present.
"Best wishes to my sister on her nuptials."
---
"Ma'am, this vessel is comparable to the legendary Titanic in its prime. It's the most recent design, fully outfitted and offers continuous service."
Kate's eyes lingered on the miniature before her as she blinked. "Once I board, can I leave everything behind?"
The salesperson's excitement grew. "Certainly! You can navigate it anywhere. The ship is self-sufficient, potentially allowing you to remain onboard indefinitely. Moreover, there's even..."
Kate cut him off dispassionately, gesturing. "I'll purchase this one."
The salesperson was elated. "Understood! The yacht will be ready in a week, so there's a brief waiting period. If you plan to move in immediately, you'll need to make proper arrangements."
Kate glanced at the card the salesperson provided and smoothly tucked it into her purse.
Before departing, she cautioned the salesperson, "Keep this transaction confidential."
She left only after receiving a satisfactory assurance.
Kate had resolved to vanish to a place beyond anyone's reach, never to return. After careful consideration, the yacht seemed the ideal solution.
After all, they would never suspect she intended to spend her life hiding at sea.
This time, she chose to embark alone.
Just then, Kate's phone rang, displaying Dave's name.
"Honey, remember we have the family meal today. Where are you? I'll collect you."
His worried tone only made Kate feel sick.
Recently, she had inadvertently seen Dave's phone and uncovered the truth—he had always loved her younger sister, Leona.
For a full year, he had devoted himself to Kate's happiness.
He would appear whenever she needed support, providing a sense of security. Even on ordinary days, he would create special moments just for her.
Despite being rejected 99 times when expressing his feelings, his enthusiasm never waned.
He would assure her that his genuine affection would eventually win her over.
But Kate never imagined that the man who seemed so devoted actually harbored feelings for another.
She scorned her two years of dedication, realizing it had all been in vain.
Kate felt utterly disinterested. If Dave hadn't reminded her, she would have completely overlooked the monthly family dinner—an event that always left her feeling wretched.
Her response was cold.
"No need, I'll make my own way."
She ended the call abruptly.
By the time Kate arrived, night had fallen. Everyone at the table looked at her with disapproval—especially her sister, Leona.
Before Kate could explain, Leona spoke first. "Kate, don't you realize we've all been waiting just for you?"
"Coming and going as you please, haven't you learned basic etiquette? You're about to be married, how will you manage in the future?"
Kate looked to her parents, but their expressions remained distant and unsympathetic.
She couldn't fathom it. Weren't they both children their parents had adopted together?