Chapter 1
The Rothwell family had two marriage candidates–one was me, and the other was Emilia Harper.
On Blake Rothwell’s twenty–fifth birthday, Emilia died in a car accident, and I became the Rothwell family’s daughter–in–law.
After our marriage, my husband and I maintained a respectful relationship that blossomed into genuine affection.
I gave everything for him and the Rothwell family.
I thought we would live happily ever after.
But in our golden years, my husband suddenly announced he wanted to move Emilia’s ashes into the Rothwell family mausoleum–taking the spot that was meant for me.]
I was furious–I cried, screamed, and even cursed him.]
But my husband remained unmoved.[]
To ensure I accepted this fate, he admitted he had already changed his will–after his death, I would be left with nothing.
When I discovered that our three sons and even all our grandchildren stood with him, I collapsed, coughing blood, dying right before my husband’s eyes.[]
When I opened my eyes again, I found myself back on the day the Rothwell family was to choose their daughter–in–law.
Mr. Rothwell stood at the head of the hall, his expression solemn.[]
“Blake, you’re not getting any younger. It’s time you made a decision.”
“Tell us, who do you want as your wife?”
Mrs. Rothwell smiled warmly. “I’m guessing our son will choose Riley. He’s always been attached to her since childhood.“]
In both beauty and intelligence, I far surpassed Emilia.[]
Everyone in the Rothwell family knew I was already the presumed choice for their daughter–in–law.
But in this lifetime, Blake looked at me coldly.[]
In his eyes, I saw deep disgust and hatred.]
I instantly understood–he had been reborn too.
Since you pine so much for Emilia, I’ll step aside and let you have her.]
I stood up and spoke clearly: “Mr. Rothwell.“]]
“I consider myself inadequate in both talent and appearance. I’m not worthy of Blake.“[]
“So, I withdraw.”
Blake visibly froze. A flash of disbelief crossed his eyes before they returned to their icy state.[]
He said nothing, turning to leave the hall in a hurry.
I knew exactly where he was going–at this point in time, Emilia hadn’t been in the car accident. Everything could still be saved.
I stood in place, a bitter smile tugging at my lips.[]
Apparently, decades of marriage meant nothing more than smoke and mirrors.]
“Riley, what did you just say?” Mr. Rothwell’s voice came from the dais.]
I looked up, meeting his gaze.[]
This man who once treated me like his own daughter now wore confusion on his face.
I took a deep breath, my voice strangely calm even to my own ears: “Mr. Rothwell, since Blake has someone else in his heart, I’m withdrawing from consideration.“[]
Mr. and Mrs. Rothwell exchanged glances. After witnessing their son’s abrupt departure, they were at a loss for comforting words.]
I quietly returned to my room to pack my belongings, preparing to leave.]
The next day, I opened my Instagram to find it flooded with announcements about Blake and Emilia’s relationship.
In the photos, Emilia nestled in Blake’s arms, her smile as radiant as early spring sunshine.[]
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Chapter 1
Blake held her waist
tightly, his
eyes full
of tender affection.]
I scrolled past
these notifications with
a
blank expression.[]
Around
noon, commotion
erupted downstairs.
From my
window, I watched Blake walking in with Emilia on
his arm,
striding confidently through the
Rothwell family gates.
study.
Soon after, heated arguments echoed from the direction of the
Blake’s
“Why is
voice was
Riley
sharp: “Dad! I’ve already said I choose Emilia!”
still the lead designer?”
