Chapter 1

Harriet's Perspective

As I neared the end of my university studies, my partner, Damian Harris, unexpectedly ended our relationship.

He gifted me a house, a luxury car, and a substantial sum of money, expressing gratitude for our time together. Bewildered, I questioned his decision. His reply was emotionless and matter-of-fact: "Harriet, in families like mine, love and marriage are separate matters. I'm returning to fulfill my obligations and wed someone appropriate. Can you comprehend that?"

——

My boyfriend was about to be betrothed, but not to me.

When I hastily arrived at the engagement event, I spotted Damian on the platform.

He looked stunning in his custom-made suit, with dark cufflinks shining against his immaculate shirt, his appearance as impeccable as always.

However, the woman beside him... she was extremely short, overweight, and her face was covered in oily blemishes that seemed ready to erupt.

My boyfriend was marrying her?

The previous night's events replayed in my mind, feeling as if they had occurred ages ago.

I had just returned from my internship, only to be pushed onto the bed by Damian.

He whispered huskily as he kissed me, "Darling, don't consider me human tonight."

That evening, he possessed me completely.

But when I awoke the next day, he had vanished. His phone was unreachable, and all his online profiles—WhatsApp, Instagram—were gone. It was as if he had disappeared from my life without warning.

Then, his attorney arrived.

It was noon when the lawyer knocked. He mentioned Damian had specifically instructed him to come at this time to avoid disturbing my sleep.

He presented me with a document, which I quickly scanned in puzzlement.

It detailed the transfer of assets—a house, a luxury car, and a large sum of money—clearly indicating that Damian had willingly given them to me as appreciation for our four-year relationship.

So, he abruptly left me and treated me like a mistress, throwing money at me?

But I didn't want his wealth!

I had told him this when we first began dating. His response then had been self-assured and dismissive: "Regardless of your wealth, you'll never surpass mine."

I let it slide because I loved him.

But why did we have to part ways like this?

Last night, he had been so distant yet so passionate and desperate simultaneously. He couldn't stop professing his love for me.

How could he just leave?

I forced myself to remain composed and used my family's connections to investigate. It didn't take long to uncover the truth, which led me to the engagement ceremony.

From his expression, it was clear Damian wasn't content. Was he being coerced into this marriage?

"Kiss! Kiss!"

A cry arose from the audience, and the fiancée reached for Damian's hand. He instinctively moved away, avoiding her touch.

The woman frowned, her thick lips trembling as she angrily said, "Have you already forgotten your promise to me?"

Damian's face drained of color, but he reluctantly stepped forward.

He was being blackmailed—I was certain of it!

I couldn't contain myself any longer. Pushing through the crowd, I yelled, "Dam! If something's wrong, tell me! Don't force yourself like this!"

Everyone turned to look at me.

When Damian saw me, a brief flash of warmth appeared in his cold gaze, but it quickly disappeared.

"Who is this woman?" the fiancée growled, glaring at me. "You even have a pet name for my fiancé. Who do you think you are?"

I began to explain, but Damian interrupted me.

Scowling, his sharp eyebrows furrowed in frustration as he said, "She's just a pitiful hanger-on. Remove her; she's not worth your concern."

A hanger-on?

I could sense the contempt in every gaze that turned my way, judgment evident in their stares.