22
In the end, it was my mother who wiped her eyes first.“Why are we crying? We should be happy that Sylvia is staying. It’s New Year’s–no bad omens. Sylvia, what do you want to eat? I’ll cook.”
“Anything you make, Mom,” I replied gratefully.
Her face lit up.“Good! Go get some rest. You two men–help me in the kitchen!”
My father and brother, like eunuchs in an ancient drama, replied “Yes, ma’am” and went to the kitchen.
Soon, the sound of oil sizzling and delicious aromas filled the air, punctuated by my mother’s occasional scolding. This was life–messy, fragrant, alive.
I smiled contentedly, silently thanking the system for giving me such a perfect, happy family. After that day, Adam and Noah never appeared in front of me again. But I could feel them watching over me, unseen.
A well–known music company approached me, offering me a contract, despite my lack of experience. It must be Adam and Noah’s compensation.
They had truly regretted their actions, consuming codeine themselves. But it didn’t affect everyone the same way. It worked only on me. Their voices were unharmed.
I saw videos from them but pretended not to notice.
A month and a half later, with the help of the music company, I released my first single, “New Life.” The song celebrated my rebirth and the freedom ahead.
The song exploded in popularity within three hours. The music company played a part, but the song was truly good. I wrote the lyrics, and the music was composed by a top producer.
I didn’t believe Adam and Noah hadn’t helped me behind the scenes. But I pretended not to know.
On the day the song exploded, I took my parents and brother to a high–end restaurant in the city center to celebrate my smooth entry into the music industry.
After a few glasses of wine, I felt a little dizzy. Standing by the window to sober up, I saw a Rolls–Royce park downstairs. Adam was driving, and Noah was in the passenger seat.
They exchanged knowing glances but didn’t disturb the cozy atmosphere. Perhaps this was the best outcome for everyone. I couldn’t forget the past and return to them, and they couldn’t force me back to the Fowler family.
But the peace didn’t last. A month and a half later, I received a call from Adam. His voice was frantic.“Sylvia, Charlotte has disappeared.”
I never imagined she would escape the Fowler family.
I frowned, sensing trouble. She was at the end of her rope; I wouldn’t be surprised if she did something drastic. I was most worried that she would hurt my family.
15.16
< 22
Menu
I didn’t want to lose my hard–won happiness. Adam obviously anticipated this. He comforted me, “It’s okay. I’ve had my men protect your parents and brother.”
“They’ll be fine, but be careful yourself. My bodyguards are protecting you, but…”
He didn’t finish, but I understood. Charlotte might resort to desperate measures.
I paused.“Okay, thank you.”
Hearing my polite and distant thanks, Adam was stunned. His voice was strained and bitter.“Do you have to be so distant? It’s Noah’s birthday in a fortnight. He wants you to attend. Sylvia, will
you come?”
His voice was tense and uncertain, fearing my rejection.
I always knew Adam was proud. This was probably the first time he’d been so humble. I couldn’t refuse; he was protecting my family.
“Okay.”
< 23
