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[Prologue]
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2025-01-15 15:33:00“Abort your pregnancy.”
The voice pierced straight to Victoria's heart. The unexpected yet clear words came from the woman in front of her, Chelsea Lancaster. With trembling hands, Victoria stared at the check lying on the table. The amount written on it was enough to change anyone's life. Enough to buy a mansion, a car, even temporary freedom. But it was not the freedom she wanted. Not the freedom she was looking for.
Seeing that the young woman in front of her seemed interested in the check she gave, Chelsea said again. “Take this check, and leave my son. Live well, away from our family. It's the only way out for you.” She folded her arms across her chest, her smile cold and haughty.
Victoria stared at the check with a turbulent heart. The hand that had been hesitating, now trembled more strongly. What was Chelsea thinking? Did this woman really believe she could just erase her from their lives? Not to mention her eyes that repeatedly looked at the check and the woman sitting in front of her.
“You really think I would do that?” Victoria tried to hold back her shaky voice. “Abort this innocent baby just because you don't want me to be a part of your family's life?”
Chelsea looked at her sharply, as if measuring every word that came out of Victoria's mouth. “I don't want to lower our family into the mud just because of a girl like you. You're not good enough for my son. And you're right, I don't want you in my family.” Chelsea grinned sarcastically. “You don't deserve to be part of the Lancaster family.”
Victoria clasped her hands on the table, trying to contain the anger that was about to explode. “I don't need your acceptance to love Damian. I don't need your money to keep this baby. I just need your trust and our love.”
“Trust?” Chelsea chuckled. "What do you know about trust, Miss? You're just a scholarship student. What family do you come from? Who will support you when my son leaves you? The Lancaster family will never accept you as a daughter-in-law."
“Don't speak as if you know everything about my life,” Victoria retorted in a firm voice. “Damian loves me with all his heart, Mrs. Chelsea. And we will raise this child together. What you are offering is not a solution but an embarrassment."
Chelsea looked at her with piercing eyes and then stared at the check still lying on the table. “Take that and stay away from my son.” She pointed with the tip of her chin. “Or your life will be ruined. I'll make sure everything you've built will come crashing down in an instant. So... don't miss the good opportunity that comes your way today.”
With a now steadier hand, Victoria lifted the check, tearing it in a swift motion. The sound of the tear seemed to open a new chapter in her life. “Thank you for your concern, Mrs. Chelsea. But I choose to keep this baby. I love Damian and we will get through everything together.”
Chelsea was silent for a moment, her eyes narrowed sharply, then laughed. The sound of her laughter was mocking and condescending. “All right. That's your choice. I just want you to know, you'll never know what I can do if you go against my will. I will make your life a nightmare.”
Victoria felt a cold wind blow as the words slipped from Chelsea's lips. However, her heart remained steadfast. “I'm ready to face whatever you do. I'm sure Damian will always be by my side.”
Chelsea stood up with a haughty gesture. “You think Damian will stay with you after all this? Just because you're carrying his child? I hope you're not too late to realize how naive you were.”
Victoria stared at her unflinchingly. “We'll see who's more naive in the end, Mrs. Chelsea.”
After those words, Chelsea turned and left the table with arrogant steps. Victoria sat back down, her eyes fixed on the torn check. Feelings of fear and anxiety tried to creep into her heart, but she brushed them aside. No matter what happened, she would not back down. She and Damian would raise this child together, no matter what they had to face.
However, the next day, Victoria's life changed in an instant. News of Damian's engagement to Jessica Vladimir, Victoria's college friend, appeared on almost every social media and newspaper. Damian, whom she had always loved, disappeared without a trace. There was no news, no explanation. Everything was gone.
On campus, her scholarship was revoked, her internship site issued her a letter of release, and even the house she lived in was seized by the bank.
What happened? Why did the world seem to collapse so quickly?
Victoria didn't know the exact answer. But one thing she was sure of: this wasn't the end. This was just the beginning.
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Six years have passed, and Victoria Hayes' life has been filled with challenges she never expected. All the beautiful things that once infiltrated her heart were destroyed. Except for her body and the child in her womb. The only place to go back to is her family home, though... it's not easy to accept Victoria back.But Victoria didn't want to give up. She had to be strong. Her child needed her. No matter what happens, she will challenge the world. Even if not many are in her favor, she'll keep going. And close her heart to anyone who comes close, because the love she once had and gave, made her fall in a puddle of heartache so deep.Until now, Damian Lancaster has never appeared in her life. The image of a beautiful and haughty woman named Chelsea often comes to mind. As if confirming all her words in the past, if Victoria's life is really in trouble if she doesn't comply with all her requests.But ... how could a mother just abort the child she was carrying? Without mercy?“What am
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Victoria sat on the spacious terrace with a view of the garden that looked like a living painting. The delicate aroma of green tea mingled with the afternoon air. In front of her, Grace Ashford, an elegant woman with an unwaveringly confident demeanor, sipped tea from a porcelain cup with elegant movements.“How do you feel about living here, Victoria?” Grace started the conversation. Her eyes were sharp, like a hawk watching its prey.Victoria stared into her teacup, searching for the right words. “I'm... still a bit surprised,” she replied. It was the truth Victoria could tell. In just over a week, her life had changed. She used to sleep in a room that was so cramped that even just putting her clothes and bag on it was difficult to sleep freely. She was given a room that had been used as a warehouse. When Victoria protested that Abby was with her, her parents and sister scolded her. They said Victoria was an ignorant woman.Grace chuckled, but it sounded more like mockery. "Surprise
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That day, Victoria had prepared herself earlier than usual. Today was her schedule to visit Abigail in the hospital. Anna, her daughter's caregiver, had sent her a photo that morning. In the photo, Abigail looked cheerful with her nanny. Anna also shared the good news that Abigail's condition had stabilized over the past few days.A bright smile was etched on Victoria's face. She made Abigail's favorite food as a small token of attention for her daughter. Not only that, but without realizing it, she also made breakfast for Logan-perhaps in gratitude that he hadn't refused her therapy. Even though their marriage was just a formality, Victoria felt she still had to honor Logan as her husband.Victoria knocked gently on Logan's bedroom door. In her hand was a tray with a cup of hot coffee and toast. “Sir,” she called in a soft voice. “Are you awake?”From inside, Logan's voice rang out, stern as ever. “What's wrong?”The cold tone didn't surprise Victoria. She smiled a little, relieved t
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Victoria's conversation with Logan did not go well. The man, as expected, did not believe a word she said.“If you want more money than the compensation I've already given you, just tell me the truth, woman.” Logan gripped Victoria's face quite firmly, making it difficult for her to breathe. The man's blue eyes stared intently, full of anger and contempt. “Don't you dare talk nonsense like this!”After that, Logan pushed Victoria roughly. Although she didn't fall, her body staggered a few steps back.“You have to trust me, Mr. Logan. I wouldn't risk everything with a lie like this,” Victoria said in a pleading tone. She tried to control her breathing, holding back the tears that were about to fall.“Go away!” snapped Logan. “I don't want to hear your bullshit.”There was nothing else Victoria could do but accept reality. With heavy steps, she left the room that felt like a battlefield.Outside, Victoria bumped into Ben. The man's gaze was cold and judgmental, as if he believed Victori
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Grace looked at Victoria with a sharp look that made the atmosphere in the room feel heavier than ever. “You didn't forget your duty, did you?” she asked.Victoria tried to keep a calm expression as she stabbed at a piece of fruit on her plate. She couldn't afford to look nervous or suspicious, especially since she had secretly begun to investigate the effects of the medicine given to Logan.“No, Auntie. I make sure Mr. Logan takes it regularly,” she replied in a flat tone.Grace smiled slightly. “Good.” She leaned back, a little more relaxed than before. Those piercing eyes softened, but Victoria knew full well this woman never really let her guard down.The conversation that followed was mostly about cooperative projects with the Dallas Corp-things that were too complicated and unfamiliar for Victoria. She felt she shouldn't be here, but Logan's cold, piercing blue gaze kept her from leaving the room.“Th
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Logan gave Victoria a sharp look. His eyes had not moved from her since the conversation began. “Why do you need my activity schedule?” he asked coldly as soon as breakfast was over.Victoria refrained from directly replying in an irritated tone. “I need to synchronize the therapy schedule with your activities, Mr. Logan,” she replied calmly. She glanced at the servants who were busy clearing plates and glasses from the dining table. Living in this house made Victoria feel like she was losing control of her life. Everything was too regimented and she wasn't used to that.Logan leaned back in the wheelchair, seemingly unconcerned. "As a therapist, you should just come in, do your job, and leave. That's all.”Victoria tried to remain calm even though Logan's attitude was really testing her patience. “Do you mind if I know?” she asked cautiously.Logan just took a sip of his black coffee without answering. The silence irritated Victoria even more, but she knew there was no point in showin
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The Substitute Wife of a Paralyzed CEO [20]
Victoria stood beside Logan who was undergoing light exercises with his therapist. Her hands were busy going over the previous therapy notes, checking for any progress since the last session. The changes in the formerly stiff muscles were now significant, and that brought her some relief.However, in the midst of it all, Victoria's mind was still full of anxiety. She barely slept last night, thinking about everything Logan had done for her and Abigail. What he had given her was so much more than she ever expected.“You don't have to do all this,” Victoria said finally, her voice almost a murmur. She tried to shift her focus to the acupuncture needles ready in her hands. “I'm afraid I can't repay you for all your kindness.”Victoria was grateful that Logan was willing to take the medicine she had specifically recommended. Under the supervision of Samuel's neuroscience colleague, the medicine was obtained with special care. And the progress Logan was making made Victoria feel relieved.
The Substitute Wife of a Paralyzed CEO [19]
“Good night, darling,” Victoria whispered softly as she kissed Abigail's forehead. The little girl was already asleep, her breathing was regular, and her face looked smiling even in sleep.Abigail's peaceful face warmed Victoria's heart. It was as if all the fatigue and pain of her life disappeared just by seeing her daughter sleeping like this. When was the last time she felt this happy? Victoria never imagined something like this would happen to her poor life. She thought it wouldn't be easy to get out of that house because the only place I could go home to, was that house.But the reality she was living in now, was completely unexpected.“Never mind, why should I remember the past,” Victoria muttered, shaking her head lightly. She stroked Abigail's hair lovingly before closing the bedroom door slowly, making sure no noise would disturb her daughter's sleep.As she stepped onto the stairs, Victoria's intention was simple: to enjoy a warm cup of tea in the evening air. But her steps
The Substitute Wife of a Paralyzed CEO [18]
“We're here, Mrs. Victoria,” Hendy said as the car pulled up to the lobby of a café filled with bright pastels. Along the way, Victoria tried to compose herself while answering Abigail's questions about the place they were going.“Thank you,” Victoria replied, preparing to open the door. But Hendy quickly held her back.“Just let me, ma'am,” he said as he got out of the driver's seat and opened the door for her.Victoria was a little taken aback, feeling awkward by such polite treatment. “You needn't bother, Mr. Hendy.”"No bother at all, Mrs. Victoria. And please, just call me Hendy.” He bowed politely, then made sure Abigail got out of the car safely. “Enjoy your time. I'll be back to pick you up once your business is done.”Victoria could only nod, thanking him once more. Hendy drove off, leaving them in front of a lively-looking cafe with alluring decorations. Abigail look
The Substitute Wife of a Paralyzed CEO [17]
Victoria strode into the kitchen with a confident stride, even though her heart was still in Logan's angry outburst in the room this afternoon. She had promised to pay attention to the man's food since therapy began. So tonight, she decided to cook for herself.“What's for dinner tonight, Head Chef?” she asked as she tightened her apron.The Head Chef, a middle-aged man with a friendly face, nodded respectfully before replying, “We have a supply of steak, fresh vegetables, and tuna fillets. You want to use any ingredients, I'll prepare them right away.”Victoria smiled slightly. “Thank you, Head Chef.”“I can't really let you cook, but I'm glad Mr. Logan finished his breakfast and lunch today. I'll help you cook whatever you want, Mrs. Victoria.”“You're overreacting,” Victoria replied as she began selecting ingredients. She chose a quality beef steak, potatoes, fresh mushrooms, and salad
The Substitute Wife of a Paralyzed CEO [16]
“Mrs. Victoria.”The voice made Victoria turn her head. Ben stood in the distance, far enough away not to arouse suspicion. Just as Victoria was about to get ready for Logan's therapy session, the call stopped her in her tracks.“I have something to talk to you about,” Ben said.Victoria's brow furrowed. “What do you want to talk about?”Ben didn't answer right away. He simply gestured with his head toward a quieter corner. Victoria followed him, although questioningly. Once they were seated, Ben kept his distance, his demeanor cautious, as if he wanted to make sure this conversation didn't last long.“I'm sorry if I interrupted your preparations,” Ben said, his tone low.Victoria just gave a faint smile.“You don't have to worry about doing anything in this house anymore,” Ben continued, this time in a confident tone. “I know you always behave yourself, especially when
The Substitute Wife of a Paralyzed CEO [15]
That morning, Victoria stood in the kitchen, making breakfast for Logan with the head chef. The kitchen was bustling with activity, but Victoria still felt like she was being watched. The feeling didn't completely go away even though Ben had made sure everything was safe.The head chef presented a plate of vegetable omelette with grilled salmon, accompanied by whole wheat bread and fresh orange juice. “This should be healthy enough for Mr. Logan,” he said with a friendly smile.Victoria nodded, took the tray and led it to the dining room. There, Logan was already sitting in his chair, his face as cold as ever. Next to him, Ben stood relaxed, as if always ready to take orders.“Good morning, Mr. Logan,” she greeted softly as she placed the breakfast in front of him. Although there was concern that Logan would refuse, Victoria was determined to make sure Logan's intake supported his recovery.Logan gave his food a quick glance, then
The Substitute Wife of a Paralyzed CEO [14]
“Damn, your sibling is really ruining my mood,” Grace complained irritably. She looked at Victoria who was standing awkwardly nearby, among the boutique's racks full of fancy clothes. “I got a migraine from that conversation.”“I'm sorry,” Victoria said with a bow. She also didn't expect to meet Lucy and have her sister say some offensive things. After Lucy's leaving, it was quiet in the boutique again. Victoria remained there, even though her heart wanted to leave immediately. There was no way she was leaving Grace behind, especially after everything she had done today.“Is there anything else you want?” asked Grace, giving Victoria a quick glance.Victoria shook her head quickly. “What you've chosen is too much, Aunt Grace. In fact, I don't think I deserve any of this.”Grace looked at Victoria with a look that was difficult to translate. There was a mixture of sincerity and something else-some
The Substitute Wife of a Paralyzed CEO [13]
The hospital room was cold, colder than usual. Dazzling white lights glowed on the pale gray walls, creating a silent and depressing atmosphere. The machines in the corner of the room hummed with a monotonous rhythm, reminding us how fragile life is.Victoria stood at Abigail's bedside, clasping her daughter's small, pale fingers. Abigail lay with an IV attached to her arm. Today was an important day, a blood transfusion that would determine her health condition. Victoria promised to be by her side from the beginning.“Mom... it hurts,” Abigail whispered in a weak voice. Her big eyes were glazed over, trying to look strong even though her little body convulsed for a moment as the needle began to work. Victoria couldn't bear to see the pain on her daughter's face, but she had to be strong.Victoria gently stroked Abigail's hair, trying to hold back the tears that were welling up. “Mommy's here, sweetie. It's okay. You're doing great. Abby's a brave girl.”Abigail gave a small nod, thou
The Substitute Wife of a Paralyzed CEO [12]
Victoria stood frozen in the doorway of Abigail's hospital room. The sight in front of her made her pause. Logan Ashford, a man who had always been known to be cold and rigid, sat on the edge of Abigail's bed. His face was serious, but there was a sincerity that Victoria strangely never expected. He listened to Abigail's every word without any sign of distraction, even though the child continued to talk nonstop.Abigail's eyes lit up as she showed her the pictures in her new book. Wait, since when did Abigail have a picture book and crayons? Victoria realized there was more than just the usual attention here. On the bedside table, there are fruit parcels, snack bags, milk, and a piece of sweet cake-all little things that Victoria knows will make Abigail happy.Most noticeable, however, is the way Logan stares at each picture with a thoughtful expression. As if he was really trying to understand the story behind the child's scribbles.“Can you tell me about
