Chapter 4

I slammed the door and left, relying on odd jobs and student loans to not only complete my studies but also earn an outstanding graduation certificate.

At that time, my mom, who had grown closer to Richard Hayes, was in a great mood and proactively welcomed me home.

She even held a celebration dinner for me.

Marcus was there too, as Seraphina's fiancé.

After years of not seeing me, he surprisingly grew greedy for me again.

While I went to the backyard to sober up, he followed me, hugging me from behind:

"Chloe, I still can't forget you. Seraphina doesn't even compare to you… Let's get back together…"

I was utterly disgusted. I struggled violently and slapped him across the face.

The commotion drew everyone's attention.

Marcus immediately changed his demeanor, pointing at the slap mark on his face, feigning deep sorrow:

"Ms. Sterling, Chloe tried to seduce me again, and when I refused, she hit me…"

I trembled with rage, pointing at Marcus's nose:

"You're lying! You tried to force yourself on me!"

I then looked at Seraphina:

"Control your trash!"

Seraphina knew Marcus's true colors, but she still chose to smear my name.

Mom was utterly disappointed, and for the first time, she hit me:

"Chloe, do you have to steal everything Seraphina likes?"

"Get out! I never want to see you again! I don't have a daughter like you!"

In that moment, my heart turned to ash. I didn't argue another word, turning and leaving.

After severing ties, I lived a simple and ordinary life on my own.

But fate didn't easily let me off the hook.

A routine physical exam revealed I had hereditary liver cancer.

My dad had also died from liver cancer.

To raise the exorbitant surgery fees, I worked several jobs after my main shift.

I came to this luxury store today because I took a delivery order, to deliver a pre-ordered bag to a client's loved one.

But I never imagined I'd suffer this undeserved misfortune.

My phone rang, interrupting my thoughts.

When I answered, an impatient male voice came through:

"Why aren't you here yet?"

"I'll be right there."

I hung up, and when I looked up, I met Seraphina's excited gaze.

"I knew it! You've lived a life of luxury for so long, there's no way you could survive on your own! So you really did become a shameless mistress, huh?"