Chapter 1

That night, clutching the positive pregnancy test, my heart practically soared with joy as I waited for Nealon to come home. I planned to confess everything to him.

Instead, I waited for him to bring a gorgeous woman home for the night.

The woman didn't like the smell of durian pastry, so he tossed out the meal I'd spent two hours meticulously preparing.

Nealon scooped her up in a princess carry, heading inside to massage her feet.

She chuckled, teasing him, "You have a little girl living here? She seems quite fond of you."

Nealon didn't even glance back. His voice was icy. "Just a kid. No need to mind her."

A bitter laugh escaped me. I shredded the pregnancy test report, booked an appointment for an abortion, and simultaneously bought a ticket to the Amazon rainforest.

I was a Master's student in Archaeology, passionate about history and artifacts.

My professor often praised my exceptional talent for archaeology, repeatedly inviting me to join his team.

For Nealon, I always refused.

Nealon. He was the man I loved more than anyone.

He was a friend of my father's.

I was content to be a clingy vine, utterly dependent on his life. I felt truly happy.

Especially after I discovered I was pregnant that night.

It made me even more determined to stay by Nealon's side.

But now, all those beautiful illusions had shattered.

Nealon had another woman.

And he had never, not once, loved me.

Before booking my ticket to the rainforest, I finally dialed my professor, a call I hadn’t made in ages.

His voice on the other end was a mix of surprise and pure delight.

"Anya? What, have you finally decided to join my archaeology team?"

I nodded.

"Yes, Professor. I’ve made up my mind. My flight is in three days. I’ll meet you in the rainforest."

The professor was overjoyed, as if he’d found a priceless treasure.

"Oh, Anya, you’ve finally come to your senses! I’ve always said you’re the most talented student I’ve ever seen. You shouldn't let that talent go to waste!"

After hanging up, a clap of thunder rumbled outside, making me realize it was raining.

Normally, at times like these, I'd worry about Nealon getting caught in the rain.

Even though I knew he had a personal driver and bodyguards and wouldn't get wet, I'd still rush out with an umbrella.

He always looked surprised to see me, then his brows would furrow.

"Didn't I tell you not to come here anymore?"

His angry face would send me into a panic, making me apologize profusely.

I couldn't help but smile bitterly. That's what love does; it makes you so desperate.

But now, I sat motionless on the sofa.

Whether Nealon got wet or not would soon have nothing to do with me.

Only three days left.

In three days, I would leave this city forever.