Chapter 2

Ethan? Did he deserve it?

[No, choose someone else.]

Chloe had clung to Ethan relentlessly, for no other reason than him being the chosen successor of a medical legend.

Both the hospital and the medical college were ultimately supposed to be inherited by Ethan.

The Sterling Medical Dynasty had already announced this.

Everyone said, "The Sterling family really does pick its heirs based on ability, choosing outside their own children."

"Exactly! It seems merit truly prevails."

Little did they know, I was the sole heir of the Sterling Medical Dynasty, and Ethan was simply *my* chosen successor.

My parents had asked me back then, "Why him?"

To this day, I remember what I said: "He may only be a midwife now, but I believe he has a bright future."

Ethan hadn't disappointed me.

In just three years, he became a leader in his field.

He even became synonymous with the profession of a midwife.

But without our family's support, how could his path have been so smooth?

I even used to joke with Ethan, "If I told you I was the heir to the Sterling Medical Dynasty, would you believe me?"

Ethan paused for a moment, then laughed, "Honey, even if your family background doesn't match mine, I wouldn't mind. And don't worry, my parents are completely fine with whoever I choose."

Back then, Ethan only had eyes for me.

He didn't just say it; he acted on it.

Because I had always kept my identity a secret, my in-laws thought I wasn't good enough for Ethan.

But every time, Ethan would sternly retort, "I'm choosing a wife, not a business partner for you."

For my sake, Ethan hadn't visited his parents' mansion in ages.

Their family relationship had only recently begun to mend.

I just never expected a man's love could be a deception from beginning to end.

Four miscarriages later, I was utterly disillusioned with this man.

Three days later, I was discharged and returned home, only to find the house completely transformed.

Chloe, a triumphant smirk on her face, came downstairs. She feigned surprise, "Oh, Aubrey, you're back?"

"Even though you're still legally my husband's wife, we're already married. I actually don't want to see you in *my* house..."

I ignored Chloe and walked straight to the bedroom, intending to retrieve my belongings. But Chloe blocked my path. "This is our master bedroom. Do you think you can just waltz in?"

"I need to get my things."

"Your things?" Chloe instantly sneered. "What 'things' do you have? All your belongings were bought by my husband."

Meeting Chloe's mocking gaze, I didn't back down. "Chloe, you just said I'm still legally Ethan's wife. If I were to truly burn all bridges and sue him for bigamy, what impact do you think that would have on both of you?"

"You... you're threatening me?"

I didn't deny it, and Chloe was furious.

Taking advantage of her hesitation, I walked straight into the bedroom.

But the transformed room left me at a loss.

Chloe recovered and mocked, "I threw out all your things. If you really want them, go check the trash cans downstairs."

"What about the box in the closet?"

I opened the closet, but didn't see the cherished box.

Chloe ignored my sharp glare, merely shrugging, "Threw it away."

Furious, I grabbed Chloe by the throat. "You're asking for it."

As Chloe struggled, Ethan returned.