Chapter 1

"You're Mr. Hart's granddaughter?"

Four years after our breakup, Ethan Pierce stood at the door asking me this, his tone so distant, as if we had never met.

Before I could answer, a bright, cheerful voice came through his phone.

"Let's go set off fireworks together after dinner."

Four years ago, that same voice had forced him to choose.

He dumped me on the spot and told me our seven years together were just a way to make Vivian jealous.

I gripped the gift bag tighter, my knuckles turning white.

Mr. Pierce Senior was Grandpa's old war buddy and also my secret patient. They did not know that the "worthless woman" they mocked relentlessly, the one they abandoned without a second thought, was actually the only surgeon who could save his life.

Then Vivian deliberately kicked over the fireworks. The launch tubes aimed straight at me. Ethan rushed past me and threw himself over Vivian, shielding her with his body.

Searing pain exploded in my eyes.

"Natalie, Vivian passed out. I'm taking her away first. Find somewhere safe and wait for me."

Fine then. I will hide somewhere he will never find me again.