Chapter 1

"According to the latest reports, the popular dancer Lucy Hart was spotted by the media entering a hotel with her boyfriend. The two appeared intimate, sparking rumors of a possible relationship!"

Serena Turner heard the news and looked up at the TV. She recognized the man in the photo with just one glance. It was Shane Cole, her husband.

She lowered her head and stared at the cut on her finger from the knife before slowly bringing it to her mouth.

Others might not have been able to recognize him, but Serena was certain. After all, this was the man she had admired since her youth. How could she possibly not?

No wonder he had been unreachable these past few days.

She figured that Shane and Lucy must have been so happy together all this while. Meanwhile, she had been unable to eat or sleep because of her grandfather's critical condition.

Just then, the hospital room door opened. Serena turned her head and saw Shane, whom she hadn't seen in half a month. For a moment, she didn't know how to react.

Shane glanced at her briefly before walking in, his gaze calm as he looked at the unconscious elderly man on the bed. His tone was equally steady, devoid of any emotions.

"I've already contacted a specialist from abroad. They'll be arriving tomorrow."

Serena lowered her head and murmured, "Thank you."

Her silence caught Shane off guard. His gaze finally shifted to her.

The news played again on the hospital room's TV. Shane didn't bother to look up. He had already seen it on his way here. He merely raised an eyebrow.

He reached out, gently lifting Serena's slightly lowered head. Then, he stared at her delicate, beautiful face and asked, "Are you mad?"

Serena's pupils quivered slightly. Exhausted from several sleepless nights, she looked thinner, her face pale, and her vulnerable gaze upward made her appear even more fragile.

Her lips moved as if to say, "Do I even have the right to be angry?" But in the end, she swallowed the words.

"No…"

Shane's gaze darkened as he observed her frail demeanor. He leaned forward slightly, gently lifting her chin. His thumb grazed her smooth skin. His voice was calm but laced with a faint hint of teasing.

"Who are you putting on that expression for?"

Serena knew Shane too well. She could tell that he was displeased.

They had been married for three years. Serena had always been cautious, gentle, and considerate as his wife. She never disobeyed him or stepped out of line.

He was satisfied with her behavior as Mrs. Cole, which was why their marriage lasted three years.

Shane's eyes lingered on her lips, the faint hint of red standing out starkly against her pale complexion.

His expression darkened, and his thumb pressed lightly against her lips, though not too gently. Serena's breath hitched, and her eyelashes trembled as she met his deep and unreadable stare.

Serena knew that this was Shane's signal.

After a brief hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck, closed her eyes, and pressed her lips softly against his.

Shane narrowed his eyes, pulling her into his arms and onto his lap. One hand cradled the back of her head while the other held her waist.

His kiss, like the man himself, was overwhelming and domineering.

It didn't take long before Serena was gasping for air, her clothes slightly disheveled. Feeling his hand slide further, she grabbed his wrist, her breath unsteady.

"Not here, please?"

Shane understood what Serena meant and didn't press further. He wasn't the type to indulge in such acts in inappropriate places. Without saying a single word, he scooped her up and carried her into the adjacent room.

An hour later, Serena was leaning against the bed, clutching the sheets around her, as she watched Shane emerge from the bathroom.

His clothes were only slightly rumpled, his face as composed and coldly handsome as ever, as if he hadn't been the same man who had just passionately lost control.

Serena, on the other hand, was utterly disheveled. Every bit of her was a contrast to his unruffled demeanor.

Shane adjusted his cuffs and glanced at her. "Ready to head back?"

Serena nodded but didn't forget the matter at hand. "Shane, there's something I want to talk to you about—"

Before she could finish, Shane's phone rang.

He glanced at the screen and answered it. Within seconds, his expression darkened. Without saying another word, he ended the call and left.

Serena knew who was on the other end of the line. It had to be someone important enough for him to walk out without hearing her out.

"Darling, I—"

Shane had already opened the door. He didn't even look back after hearing her speak. Instead, he said, "I'll have someone send the check over later."

Serena didn't say anything more. She could only watch as he walked away.

An hour later, his assistant, Ethan Smith, arrived. Handing her a check, he said, "Mrs. Cole, here's the check you requested."

Serena stared at the check in his hand, feeling as though her arms had turned to lead.

They were a proper married couple, yet after their moment of intimacy, he had someone deliver a check to her.

Just then, the television broadcasted a breaking news segment. The identity of Lucy Hart's boyfriend was revealed. It was none other than Shane Cole, CEO of Cole Group.

After all, Shane had personally appeared at the airport to escort Lucy away from the swarm of reporters.

Ethan couldn't help but glance at Serena.

"Mrs. Cole, about this check…"

Serena forced a smile, her lips curving slightly. She looked up at him and finally took the check from his hand.

"I feel like I'm being paid for my services."

Ethan didn't know how to respond to that.

No matter how out of favor she seemed, Serena was still Mrs. Cole. He coughed awkwardly and replied, "Mrs. Cole, you must be joking. You're Mr. Cole's legal wife."

"Mrs. Cole?" Serena's smile was faint, tinged with self-deprecation. "Does anyone even know who I am?"

Ethan remained speechless. To avoid further awkwardness, he quickly found an excuse and made his exit.

Serena clenched the check in her hand and made a call.

"I've got the money."

There was a brief silence on the other end before a voice spoke. "Serena…"

"Yeah?"

"If you feel hurt, if you feel like you can't go on anymore, you can choose to leave him. I'll support any decision you make."

Serena's nose stung, her eyes misting over. "Okay. I'll remember that."

Her grandfather, Elijah Turner's surgery was a success. To avoid worrying him, Serena tried reaching out to Shane again. Most of her attempts to contact him had been futile, but the call went through this time.

"What is it?"

Serene looked at Elijah, who lay in the hospital bed, smiling weakly at her. She said gently, "Grandpa is awake. Could you come to the hospital if you have time?"

A woman's voice was heard over the phone. "Shane, what about this one? Does it look nice?"

Serena froze. Her words hung in the air as the call abruptly ended. Her fingers gripped the phone tightly.

"What's wrong, Serena? Did Shane say that he couldn't make it?"

Serena shook her head and stepped forward to hold Elijah's frail hand. She whispered soothingly, "He'll come. He promised to visit you tomorrow."

After coaxing Elijah to sleep, Serena couldn't muster the courage to call Shane again. Instead, she texted him, pleading with him to spare some time to visit.

Disappointment awaited her yet again. The next day, morning turned to afternoon, then afternoon to night, but Shane never appeared.

Elijah looked at Serena with worried eyes, his concern palpable. Serena felt the tears threaten to spill, but she held them back, finding an excuse to leave the room.

She had begged him—practically pleaded. Just a few minutes of his time would've been enough. But still, he didn't come.

Suddenly, Serena heard the sound of heels clicking against the floor. The sound grew closer, and she lifted her head.

Lucy appeared, wearing a striking crimson dress. Her slightly curled hair fell elegantly over her shoulders, and her graceful steps carried her toward Serena with an air of confidence.

Serena's grip on her phone tightened. She had always known about Lucy's existence. And perhaps Lucy knew about hers too.

That day was the first time the two women stood face to face. Serena wondered why Lucy was at the hospital.

Lucy walked up to Serena and extended her hand, a slight smirk on her lips. "Ms. Turner, hello. I'm Lucy Hart. I'm sure you've heard of me, haven't you?"

Serena looked at her, taking in the challenge veiled beneath Lucy's smile. She wanted to laugh at the absurdity of it all, but the knot in her chest wouldn't allow it. She didn't know what this situation was supposed to be.

Lucy, unfazed by Serena's silence, simply chuckled as her gaze swept over Serena. "Shane's been busy, so I came to visit Mr. Turner Senior on his behalf."

Serena froze, the words hitting her like a slap. She couldn't believe that Shane had sent Lucy to visit her grandfather.

Her face turned pale. She closed her eyes briefly and hissed, "That won't be necessary. Please leave."

Lucy merely tilted her head, her lips curving into a smug smile. "If that's the case, I'll cut to the chase.

"Shane loves me. Marrying you was nothing but an obligation. I hope you understand your place and stop disrupting our lives, okay?"

The words struck Serena like a dagger. Before she could respond, a shaky, aged voice rang out from the doorway.

"Serena, is what she's saying true?"

Serena's face fell. She spun around to see Elijah standing there.

"Grandpa, no."

Suddenly, Elijah collapsed, overcome with shock.

"Grandpa!"

Panic surged through Serena as she watched the medical staff rush to wheel Elijah into the emergency room. Tears streamed uncontrollably down her face.

Serena was terrified. She didn't know what would happen to her if Elijah passed.

Three years ago, a car accident had taken her parents away. She couldn't bear to lose anyone else she loved.

Serena turned to Lucy, who now looked visibly flustered. Without hesitation, she stormed forward, raising her hand to slap her.

However, her hand was caught mid-air. The force of the block sent Serena stumbling backward, falling to the floor.

"Shane!"

Serena lifted her gaze and saw Shane shielding Lucy. She quickly turned away, unwilling to take in the scene anymore. Could anyone be more pathetic than her?

Shane had arrived just in time to witness the earlier scene. His first instinct was to step in and stop it, but he hadn't anticipated that his action would push Serena to the ground.

As she lay there with her face pale, red eyes, and body seemingly fragile enough to shatter, Serena looked utterly broken. Shane's brow furrowed slightly. Just as he was about to move toward her, Lucy leaned into him.

"Shane, I'm sure that Ms. Turner didn't mean it. Don't be upset."

Serena kept her head down. After a moment, her gaze shifted to the glowing light above the emergency room door. She steadied herself and rose to her feet.

"No. I did it on purpose."

Lucy's lips twitched, barely suppressing a smirk, while Shane's eyes darkened as he locked his gaze on Serena.

Serena let out a bitter laugh. Raising a hand to press against her chest, she spoke with a voice filled with anguish. "Haven't I been obedient enough like a little puppy?"

Shane's expression darkened. "Do you even know what you're saying right now?" he snapped.

Serena glared at Shane, the man she had admired and loved for so long. From the burning passion of her first feelings for him to the numbness that now consumed her, she felt the last fragments of her strength crumble.

Her tightly clenched fists slowly loosened. "I want a divorce."

Chapter 2

Shane and even Lucy froze in place. Surprise flashed quickly across Lucy's eyes.

Serena, however, didn't look at them. Her focus remained solely on the emergency room doors.

Shane's expression darkened, a vein briefly throbbing on his temple. Yet his eyes stayed cold and distant. Just as he was about to step forward, the emergency room doors swung open.

The doctor stepped out and briefly hesitated when he saw the three people in the hallway. "Mr. and Mrs. Cole."

Lucy pursed her lips upon hearing "Mrs. Cole."

Serena couldn't be bothered with anything else. She rushed forward and clutched the doctor's hand. "How is my grandpa?"

The doctor sighed before responding, "Mr. Cole Senior is elderly, and while the surgery was a success, he needs to rest and avoid any emotional agitation. He's been stabilized for now, but I can't guarantee when or if he'll wake up. It could be tomorrow, or he might not wake up at all."

The words "might not wake up" echoed endlessly in Serena's ears.

Shane's gaze turned solemn and frigid. He glanced at Serena, watching as she seemed to sway unsteadily on her feet before collapsing.

The doctor said in astonishment, "Mrs. Cole?"

Shane's face darkened as he stepped in to catch her, pulling her into his arms. His hand brushed her cold, lifeless cheeks, and his brow furrowed.

"What are you standing there for?" Then, he scooped her up into his arms.

Lucy's expression flickered, and she muttered, "Shane..."

Shane turned to glance at her, his voice indifferent. "You can discuss the rest with Ethan."

"But I…" Before she could finish speaking, Shane carried Serena and left.

Lucy's expression darkened as she clenched her fists. Serena was just a tool, nothing more. Why would Shane still care about her?

Serena drifted into a dream, one filled with the harrowing aftermath of a devastating car crash.

In the dream, her parents lay lifeless in pools of blood. They remained unresponsive no matter how desperately she screamed for them.

The Turners were a power couple, their influence unmatched. However, the double tragedy of their deaths in the crash left the Turner family without its pillars of strength.

Elijah could not bear the blow of the losses. He fell gravely ill and lapsed into unconsciousness.

Other powerful families circled the Turners like vultures, eager to claim the family's legacy for themselves.

Turner Corporation was the culmination of her parents' lifelong efforts. Unwilling to let it crumble, Serena had no choice but to turn to Shane for help.

If she had to sell herself, then at least it would be to the man she'd long dreamed of marrying.

And so began their incompatible marriage.

Shane had married Serena to appease his family. He had taken in a fallen heiress with no leverage left. For three years, Serena believed that she had done her best. But she wasn't happy. Not even a little.

She had once thought that Shane agreeing to marry her might mean that he felt some affection for her.

However, he made one thing painfully clear on their wedding night—he didn't love her. He didn't even care about her.

While she spent her wedding night alone in an empty room, he boarded a private jet to accompany someone else.

From that moment on, Serena buried her feelings deep, hiding them where she couldn't reach.

But the heart is made of flesh, not stone.

Serena struggled to sit up as the harsh light above pierced her eyes. She instinctively tried to get out of bed, but a firm hand pressed her shoulder back down.

Shane asked, "Where do you think you're going?"

Serena didn't respond. She simply tried to push him away.

Shane, however, forced her back onto the bed without hesitation. "You'd better stay put and stop moving around," he commanded.

Serena looked up at him and demanded, "Let me go. I want to see Mr. Cole Senior."

Shane's eyes flicked to her swollen, tear-streaked face, and his voice softened slightly. "He's fine. He's already been moved back to his room."

Serena finally stopped struggling and closed her eyes for a moment. Shane lowered his gaze and watched her closely. She could feel his eyes on her. "Why are you still here?" Her voice was raspy, devoid of its usual warmth.

Shane was annoyed by the question. He realized that he preferred it when she called him "darling" in her soft, delicate voice.

"Are you trying to kick me out?"

Serena's shoulder ached slightly as she slowly opened her eyes to look at him. It was the same face in her memories, but why was he always so cold toward her?

"Shane, did you hear what I said?"

Shane, of course, knew exactly what she was referring to. He let out a faint, almost mocking laugh. Then, he released her shoulder before leaning back into the chair behind him. "Are you referring to the divorce?"

Serena propped herself up slowly and leaned against the headboard. She avoided looking at him, but her heart inexplicably began to race. "Yes. Divorce."

Shane narrowed his eyes as he studied her pale face and trembling eyelashes. It was clear to him that she wasn't saying this out of anger. A cold, sardonic smile tugged at the corner of his lips.

"Weren't you the one who threw yourself at me in the first place?"

His words made Serena freeze, her whole body stiffening as her breathing became shallow.

She didn't want to relive that night three years ago. Back then, she had been rejected by countless people. In her desperation, she stopped Shane's car and followed him to the hotel.

Serena was completely drenched, her appearance disheveled and miserable. He had absentmindedly played with his lighter, looking her over with an air of detached amusement.

"Have you ever been in love?" he had asked.

"No."

"Ms. Turner, you know I'm not short of women. Even if I were to get myself a trophy wife, why should it be you?"

Serena still didn't know where she had found the courage that night. Under his scrutinizing, mocking gaze, she had stepped closer to him, one deliberate step at a time.

At that moment, Shane lifted Serena's chin, forcing her to meet his eyes.

"Are you really willing to get a divorce?"

Serena tried to turn her head away, but Shane held her firmly in place. She replied shakily, "Yes. I'm willing."

Shane's gaze darkened as he stared intently at her. "Say that again."

"I said I want a divorce!" Serena shouted.

Shane's intentions were crystal clear. She instinctively began retreating, panic flashing across her face. "No, I don't want this. Shane, don't touch me."

"Be good, Mrs. Cole. If you behave, I might just let this slide."

No matter how hard Serena struggled, their strength difference was too significant for her to resist.

Hearing him call her "Mrs. Cole" made her feel nothing but anguish. She finally broke down, her voice rising in a sobbing outburst. "No! I'm not Mrs. Cole! I'm just your plaything! Don't touch me!"

Shane abruptly stopped. He grabbed her face and forced her to look at him as he loomed over her. Seeing her tear-streaked, pitiful face made his throat dry.

"Should I praise you for finally having some self-awareness?"

Shane's expression grew darker at her outburst. A cold laugh escaped his lips as he patted her

tear-soaked cheek.

"If you think you're just a plaything…"

Chapter 3

In the end, Serena's resistance proved futile, and Shane got his way.

When it was over, Serena looked utterly disheveled. Her pale face was tinged with a deep flush, and the redness at the corners of her eyes made it seem as though she was wearing makeup. Her trembling lashes gave her a fragile allure that stirred an inexplicable feeling in him.

Shane's gaze darkened again as he watched her. He reached out and gently brushed away the damp strands of hair sticking to her cheek.

Serena flinched at his touch, her body shivering slightly, but the words of refusal she wanted to utter wouldn't come out. She had learned by now that every "no" from her only provoked an even more intense response from him.

Although Shane was tempted to continue, he knew that she had reached her limit for the day. Nevertheless, he was in a remarkably good mood.

Compared to their previous encounters, which always felt restrained, that day's exchange had been different. He preferred this.

"Are you hungry? What do you feel like eating?" he asked casually.

Serena was genuinely frightened by his demeanor and didn't dare say a single word. She remained silent, unwilling to provoke him further.

Seeing her frightened and pitiful expression, Shane's heart softened slightly. He kissed the back of her hand and made a call, instructing the housekeepers to prepare a meal.

After tidying up, Shane initially intended to help Serena freshen up, but his phone suddenly rang.

After taking the call, Shane frowned slightly. "Got it," he said curtly before hanging up.

He glanced back at Serena, who lay on the bed with her back to him. This time, instead of leaving without saying a single word, he spoke up. "I have some matters to attend to and need to step out for a while. Gloria will be here shortly."

Serena heard him speak. However, she merely lowered her lashes, saying nothing. Shane stood silently, watching her for a few seconds before turning and leaving.

He believed that even if she were upset now, she'd come to understand with time. She wasn't the type to act out of sheer stubbornness—of that much he was certain.

As the sound of his footsteps faded and the door closed behind him, Serena finally opened her eyes. She clutched the blanket tightly around herself, tears streaming silently down her face.

When the housekeeper, Gloria Hudson, entered with a meal, she immediately sensed what had happened. Setting down the meal container, she walked over to the bedside. "Mrs. Cole, are you alright?"

Serena stirred slightly, her voice hoarse as she replied, "Could you help me to the bathroom?"

Gloria had been caring for the couple for three years. More accurately, her care had always been focused on Serena alone. She gasped in dismay when she noticed the bruises covering Serena's body.

"Mr. Cole has gone too far! How could he leave you in such a state?"

"I'm fine," Serena said softly.

"Where is he now?"

Serena didn't answer, but Gloria had already guessed, her frustration spilling over. "He is unbelievable! Every time, he just leaves afterward. What does he think this place is?"

A place for his whims and indulgence?

After dinner, Serena dismissed Gloria and headed to Elijah's hospital room to keep watch. Most of her days were spent at the hospital anyway.

Shane rarely came home, and she, in turn, found fewer and fewer reasons to go back herself.

The house was too big, too cold, and far too empty. Serena much preferred staying at the hospital to keep Elijah company.

No matter how much she enjoyed being there, she always made sure to return home at night when Elijah was awake.

Serena took her phone out and hesitated about whether to make the call. Just then, a pop-up notification caught her attention. It was likely triggered by the kind of news she often read.

Instinctively, she tapped on it. It was a new post from Lucy's Instagram.

The image showed an overwhelming number of fresh flowers. There were so many that they covered the coffee table. The caption was simple—a red heart emoji. The implication of who sent the flowers was unmistakable.

Serena exited Instagram and made a phone call.

"Serena? Why are you calling me so late?"

"Lilian, I want a divorce."

...

Ethan said, "Mr. Cole, there's a package for you. It's from Turner Corporation."

Shane extended a hand without lifting his head. He received the document from his assistant, Ethan Smith, and set his pen down.

The moment he saw the document's contents, his expression instantly darkened.

Ethan stood nearby and couldn't help but notice the bold words on the document. It read, "Divorce Agreement."

His eyes widened in disbelief. He couldn't believe that Serena was really planning to divorce Shane.

Shane's gaze fixed on the words as he laughed coldly.

Ethan immediately lowered his head. He was shocked. After all, from what he knew of Serena, she had always been submissive and would never dare to defy Shane in the slightest. He didn't expect her to have the nerve to do this.

Shane pulled the divorce agreement out of the envelope and gave it a cursory glance. Initially indifferent, his expression turned icy as he scanned the contents, especially when he saw Serena's signature at the bottom.

He threw the agreement onto his desk, sneering. "It looks like she's learned how to be a truant." With that, Shane rose from his chair and strode out of the office.

Ethan picked up the agreement and skimmed through it. He was dumbfounded that Serena wasn't asking for anything from Shane. In fact, she was leaving everything behind!

Ethan couldn't help but feel a slight admiration for Serena.

Meanwhile, Serena's face darkened as she stared at the woman who had appeared at the hospital uninvited again.

"I didn't slap you yesterday, so you've come back today hoping that I'll do it again?"

Lucy picked up on the hostility in Serena's expression but wasn't bothered. "Sorry, Ms. Turner. I may have offended you yesterday, but wasn't I just telling the truth? I didn't expect Mr. Turner Senior to hear it. I didn't mean it."

"I don't accept your apology. Please leave." Serena stood firmly in front of the hospital room door.

Lucy didn't press further. She motioned for her assistant to place the gift on a nearby chair.

"Alright. I wasn't trying to offend you yesterday. I was just concerned and came to visit. Since I'm unwelcome, I shall take my leave." She paused before adding, "By the way, Shane left his watch at my place. Could you return it to him?"

Serena's heart skipped a beat at the sight of the familiar watch. Her chest tightened, but she showed no emotion.

"Given your relationship, there isn't a need for me to pass the watch to him. I can't help you with that."

With that, Serena turned to head back into the room. However, Lucy said, "I'm flying to Hartford for a performance in an hour and will be gone for several days. So I was hoping that you could help return the watch. Shane really likes this watch. I'll be going now. Goodbye."

Serena stood still, listening to Lucy's retreating footsteps. Then, she stared at the watch for a long time. It was so long that she didn't even notice when Ethan arrived.

"Mrs. Cole, I'm here to take you back. Mr. Cole is waiting for you."

Serena turned to face Ethan and wordlessly picked up the watch. Ethan noticed it but, knowing better than to ask, remained silent.

Back home, Serena walked in to find Shane lounging on the couch. It was rare for her to see him at home during the day, especially at this hour.

She tightly gripped the watch in her pocket as she approached him. She asked while standing still, "Did you receive the divorce agreement?"

Chapter 4

When Serena said the word "divorce" again, Shane's emotions had already cooled considerably. He no longer reacted in anger the way he once did.

Leaning back on the couch, he studied her with an unreadable expression. His deep gaze lingered on her serious face, and the corner of his mouth lifted in a faint, mocking smirk. "So, you really want a divorce?"

Serena tightened her grip on the object in her hand. All she wanted was to end this marriage as peacefully as possible.

Humiliation didn't matter to her anymore. Over the past three years, she had endured it all—lowering her head and burying her pride. One last instance of humility wouldn't make a difference now.

Serena dipped her head slightly and adopted a humble stance. Her voice even carried a quiet note of submission. "I just feel that there's no point in continuing this anymore," she said softly.

Shane narrowed his eyes, his gaze growing darker. "No point?" he repeated.

Serena stepped forward and placed a familiar watch on the coffee table before him. Her voice was calm, but a faint chill underlined her words.

"After all, I was never the person you truly wanted from the start. It's only natural that I don't belong in your heart."

Shane's expression darkened, his mood hard to decipher. He lit a cigarette, the sharp clink of the lighter against the table breaking the silence.

Everyone else in the house had retreated to their rooms. Gloria also dared not linger in the living room.

It felt as though they were the only two people in the villa.

Seeing Shane's lack of response, Serena had no choice but to look up at him. He was still staring at her, his gaze steady.

He exhaled a slow ring of smoke, a faint smile curling his lips. He tapped the ash from his cigarette before finally speaking.

"The only reason why I married you was to satisfy my physical needs. As for my heart?"

Shane rose from the couch and walked toward her, his cigarette still between his fingers. He tilted her chin upward, his voice calm yet laced with an unmistakable chill.

"Are you trying to tell me that you're no longer satisfied with just my money, and now you're after my

heart too?"

Serena's pupils contracted slightly. She instinctively denied it. "I'm not. I would never—"

"Shh." He pressed his finger lightly against her lips. The touch was deceptively gentle, yet it carried an authority that left her speechless.

"You've been Mrs. Cole for so long that you seem to have forgotten some things. Are you determined to anger me?"

Serena wanted to tell Shane that she wasn't trying to provoke him. She'd long given up the hope that he might care for her, much less love her.

She uttered, "I just want to make things easier for you and Ms. Hart."

Shane lifted her chin and glanced at the watch she had placed on the table. Then, he let out a cold laugh. "So, you're jealous, aren't you?"

Her brow furrowed, and she opened her mouth to protest, but before she could, he spoke again.

"I admit that I've been neglecting you recently. I've got some time off lately. Shall we take a trip out to the sea?"

As he spoke, his thumb brushed her earlobe. His voice was deep and smooth, but it carried a hint of warning. "Stop throwing a tantrum. I don't like it. Understand?"

"I'm not—"

Before Serena could finish speaking, Shane leaned down and captured her lips in a fleeting kiss. He didn't want to hear whatever she had to say.

"Be good and wait for me at home." With that, he brushed his fingers lightly against her cheek before turning and walking away.

Serena stood frozen in place, her heart heavy.

"Has Mr. Cole left? Are you all right?"

Serena saw the look of concern on Gloria's face. She shook her head, but she couldn't muster a smile no matter how hard she tried.

"I'm fine."

Without saying another word, Serena turned and climbed up the stairs. Shane might think she was just throwing a tantrum, but that didn't matter. She would make sure he understood just how serious she was.

Outside in the yard, Ethan stood crouched on the steps, smoking a cigarette. When he heard footsteps behind him, he quickly stubbed it out and stood up.

"Mr. Cole."

Shane adjusted his tie casually and instructed, "Reschedule tomorrow's meeting for tonight. Also, inform Mr. Lawson that the horse racing plans are postponed until next week."

Ethan stole a glance at Shane and asked, "Did you manage to coax Mrs. Cole? Are you planning to spend time with her tomorrow?"

Shane's cold gaze swept over Ethan, who immediately bowed his head. "I'm sorry, Mr. Cole."

Shane scoffed and slid into the car. He glanced back at the villa and commanded, "Make arrangements for tomorrow. Have the crew prepare Yacht No. 7."

As his assistant, Ethan understood Shane's intentions well. He nodded and reassured, "Don't worry, Mr. Cole. I'll make sure everything is ready, and Mrs. Cole will be satisfied."

That evening, Shane still didn't respond to Serena's demands. As for his earlier claims that he had time off and would spend it with her, Serena hadn't believed them.

She considered that he might genuinely be available. After all, Lucy was in another city for her performance.

Serena didn't think that Shane would make time for her. She didn't dare to hope.

She tossed and turned that night, her mind racing with one question. How could she convince Shane that she really wanted a divorce? That it wasn't a tantrum, nor a bout of jealousy?

Gloria noticed Serena's bedroom lights were still on. So, she knocked on the door and asked, "Mrs. Cole, it's so late. Why aren't you sleeping yet? Would you like me to prepare a midnight snack for you?"

"It's all right, Gloria. You should get some rest, too. I'm heading to bed."

"Alright. Please rest early."

"I will. Goodnight."

After staying up the entire night, Serena woke up late the next morning. She remained in a daze until a knock on the door pulled her back to reality.

"Mrs. Cole, are you awake? Mr. Smith is here. He said he's here to take you out to sea."

Serena sat upright on the bed, staring blankly into space for a while. It wasn't until Gloria called out again that she snapped out of it.

Serena immediately got ready, skipping applying her makeup entirely. She had always preferred going bare-faced. It wasn't because she had an overwhelming confidence in her looks but because Shane had once said that he liked her natural, clean appearance.

He had told her that she wasn't like other women, who wore elaborate makeup as if hiding behind a mask. He didn't like that.

From that day on, she stopped wearing makeup—not even light makeup.

As Serena looked into the mirror, her eyes glimmered with an unusual emotion. The last time she wore makeup had been the day they registered their marriage.

Breaking her usual pattern, she walked over to the dressing table and stared at the makeup products she hadn't touched in ages. Slowly, she picked up an eyebrow pencil.

Ethan waited for Serena downstairs for nearly an hour. It was so long that he received a call from Shane.

"Mr. Cole, Mrs. Cole hasn't come down yet." Ethan glanced at Gloria and handed her the phone.

"Mr. Cole?" Gloria continued anxiously, "Yes. Mrs. Cole slept very late last night."

Ethan could hear the slight irritation in Shane's voice from earlier softening. The latter said, "She was probably too excited to sleep well. Don't rush her."

Ethan was speechless. He was about to respond when he heard footsteps from upstairs. He looked up and immediately froze.

For a moment, he felt the urge to question Shane through the phone. He wanted to ask, "Mr. Cole, are you sure about that?"

Serena stood before Ethan, but she looked completely different. She was radiant and glowing in a way that made it impossible to look away. She exuded a brilliance that drew all attention to her.

Ethan wasn't buying the story that Serena hadn't slept well.

Chapter 5

The drive to the seaside was long. Ethan glanced at the rearview mirror and noticed the document in Serena's hands.

Shane was in a good mood that day. Ethan figured that he should offer Serena a gentle reminder to avoid suffering his wrath.

"Are you holding the divorce agreement again, Mrs. Cole?"

Again?

Serena met his gaze through the mirror. "So, Shane did receive the divorce papers yesterday?"

Ethan cleared his throat and replied, "Mr. Cole wasn't in a good mood when he received the document from Turner Corporation. So…"

Serena wasn't oblivious. She understood his meaning immediately. Glancing down at the file in her lap, she uttered, "Don't worry. This isn't a divorce agreement."

Ethan smiled in relief. "That's good. You know, Mr. Cole made time for this trip. He worked overtime, held meetings late into the night, and cleared his schedule just to make today happen. He really does care about you."

Ethan had a hidden agenda. When the boss was happy, it made life easier for everyone. But deep down, he also believed it. After all, if Shane didn't care about her, why would he go through all this trouble?

Serena's thoughts stirred at his words. She turned her gaze toward the window and murmured, "Really?"

Thinking about the surprises he'd arranged, Ethan replied confidently, "Of course!"

An hour later, they arrived at the seaside.

Serena was preoccupied with her thoughts and didn't notice anything special about the yacht she was boarding. She also didn't see Ethan making a quick phone call.

The yacht was large and luxurious. As Serena entered the cabin, soft, elegant music began to play. Drawn by the sound, she glanced up and saw a band performing. It was a band she didn't particularly like.

"Good afternoon, Mrs. Cole. Please follow me. Mr. Cole is waiting for you."

Serena tightened her grip on the file in her hands. She looked away and gave a slight nod.

Following the crew member's lead, she entered the dining room, only to stop in her tracks. The space had been carefully decorated, and every detail was meticulously arranged.

When she stepped inside, Shane's eyes stayed locked on her. She wore a simple white dress, her expression a mix of surprise and disbelief.

Shane, who had initially thought the setup might be over the top, raised an eyebrow. It seemed that Serena was pleased with the arrangement—so much so that she appeared momentarily stunned.

Rising from his seat, he walked over to her. "Do you like it?"

Serena blinked, snapping out of her daze. She tilted her head to look at him. "You—"

Before she could finish, Shane pulled her gently into his arms, pressing a soft kiss on her hair. He said in a deep voice, "It's specially prepared for you. Are you happy with it?"

Serena's heart raced. Her emotions surged uncontrollably. Her heart seemed to whisper a truth she couldn't ignore. She still loved him.

But the stronger that realization became, the more painfully evident it was that Shane didn't love her.

The lengths he went to that day, his indulgence and time spent, weren't rooted in affection. He was simply placating her because he thought she was upset.

Taking a deep breath, Serena steadied herself and whispered, "I need to talk to you about something."

Shane took her hand and guided her to the table. Gently pressing her shoulders, he helped her sit before leaning closer to her ear. "What do you want to say?"

As he returned to his seat across from her, Serena hesitated, her thoughts scattered. She wasn't sure how to begin, her emotions swirling in disarray. She couldn't deny that Shane was making her heart stir.

Seeing her reluctance to speak, Shane smirked and said, "If you don't want to talk about it, let's eat first. We can talk after."

Serena's gaze drifted over the dishes on the table, but when her eyes landed on the plate of mango sticky rice, she froze.

Shane noticed her staring at it and, assuming she liked it, picked up the plate and placed it closer to her.

"You like this too?" he asked casually.

Serena lowered her gaze, concealing the turmoil in her eyes. But beneath the table, her hands clenched tightly into fists.

She did not like it at all. In fact, she hated it.

As a child, she had nearly died from a severe mango allergy. Since then, she had kept her distance from the fruit entirely.

When she heard him ask if she "liked this too", she wondered who else enjoyed eating this. After all, it certainly wasn't her.

The chaotic thoughts swirling in Serena's mind slowly settled as her focus lingered on the plate of mango sticky rice.

She felt a wave of self-mockery wash over her. How could she have let his gestures that day spark even the faintest illusions?

Pulling herself back to reality, Serena looked away and slid the file she was holding across the table to him.

"This is the document I worked on overnight. Take a look and see if anything is missing or incorrect," she said.

Shane glanced at the file, and the warmth in his expression cooled instantly. "You're trying to upset me again, aren't you?"

Serena pressed her lips together and shook her head slightly. "Just look at it first before you jump to conclusions."

He narrowed his eyes at her, studying her closely. "I still prefer it when you call me 'darling'."

Serena avoided his gaze, her silence unwavering. Without saying another word, Shane took the file from her.

As soon as he flipped it open and saw what was inside, his expression was devoid of all warmth. He calmly asked, "So, you stayed up all night to put this together?"

Serena nodded. "Yes. I took a long time to calculate it. You were right. I decided to marry you in the first place. Now that I'm the one asking for a divorce, I should take responsibility. I've detailed everything I owe you here. I'm even willing to sign a formal agreement if you think it's necessary. I'll also slowly pay you all the money you've invested in Turner Corporation."

Shane tossed the file onto the table. His gaze darkened, and his good mood was gone. "So, you plan to settle all debts with me and exchange that for your freedom?"

Serena thought that it was more about granting him freedom. But she didn't voice that thought since it didn't matter.

"Can we do that?"

Shane let out a low chuckle as he rose from his chair. Then, he walked to the window. His gaze settled on the shimmering sea outside.

Serena watched his tall, composed figure, and an inexplicable wave of unease swept over her. The silence between them was heavy, and with every passing second, her anxiety peaked.

"Come here," Shane suddenly commanded.

Serena didn't move. She hesitated, instinctively wary of approaching him at this moment.

Shane turned his head slightly. His lips curved into a faint, mocking smile when he noticed her uneasiness. "What are you so afraid of? Aren't you always so bold?"

After all, she had dared to defy him repeatedly, even attempting to sever all ties.

The more composed he was, the more unsettled she became. Her fingers curled tightly into fists.

Shane motioned her forward and said deeply, "Come on. Didn't you want to settle things with me? Let's do it properly today."

Left with no other choice, Serena rose to her feet and slowly approached him. Just as she was about to stop at a safe distance, he reached out and pulled her closer without hesitation.

Her nerves shot through the roof as she looked up at him.

Shane scanned her delicate features with a hint of amusement. He chuckled lightly. "You put on makeup today?" he asked.

Serena froze, her body instinctively tensing at his words.

Shane traced her brow gently with his fingertip and sighed. "Why can't you just behave?"

"What are you doing?" she asked, her voice trembling.

"Settling accounts, of course. What else do you think I'm going to do to you?"